The next day I woke to the sun, or rather, bright dullness shinning through the clouds beating down onto my face through my window. I yawned and stretched enjoying the comfort and warmth of my bed. Glancing at the bedside table I noticed I was too late to go to that Picnic, not that I was planning on going.

'sure ye weren't' I heard him grumble irritably.

'Hey, what's been up your ass lately? You've been acting strange. Well, stranger than usual' I say in confusion, wondering about my internal voice's behaviour.

'Nothin's wrong I just don't think you should be hangin' about with the Cullens thats all' I heard him mutter. I blink in confusion as I begin getting dressed.

'why? What's wrong with the Cullens aside from the whole non human thing?' in ask in curiosity, 'are they dangerous?' I ask warily.

It is quiet for several moments as I pull my panties on and pull up a pair of skinny jeans.

'not exactly' I hear him say and wait for him to elaborate all I put stick my makeup on and fix my hair.

After I am dressed and I still haven't heard a reply I decide that if it was important then he'd tell me so I drop it.

Since Charlie was at work and Bella's out at that couples picnic I decided that it was a perfect day for a trip around the woods.

I packed my backpack and threw on a warm winters coat knowing I would need it at the speed I would be going at and flew straight from my window eager to get going.

I flew all the way up to Canada , stopping briefly in Alaska for a drink. I hadn't packed any food which I usually do and didn't bother to bring money and regretted it quickly. I was getting quite hungry. I sighed from my perch on the tree and decided it was time to fly back home. If only to get some food. I could always come back later.

The flight had taken two hours but she could make much better time if she flew directly and didn't make stops on the way or took in the scenery

Ash flew at top speeds high above the tree tops as I made her way home as quickly as possible. I had been flying for twenty minutes when I reached the forest near Forks. I started to pay attention to my surroundings so not to get lost and make my way back to Uncle Charlies.

To my immense surprise as I flew I saw a few figures sitting in a clearing. On closer inspection I saw it was... fuck.

'They're just everywhere you go ain't they' I heard him sigh but ignored it. It wasn't my fault he was suddenly PMSing.

'I heard that you know' he grumbled.

I hovered above them, staring hungrily at the huge assortments of delicious looking food that was on display and decided quickly to join them.

I flew quickly into the cover of the tree's before landing swiftly on the ground. I patted my hair down a little so it wouldn't look like a birds nest.

'careful now, they will have noticed you. Be ready to fly just'n case' I heard him warn seriously. I listened as when he usually warned me it was serious.

I heard growling as I walked forwards and outstretched my palms in a gesture to show I wasn't a danger. Jesus, they sounded murderous.

As I moved into visible view I saw Edward crouched in front of Bella glaring at me menacingly and Jasper doing something similar with Alice but looking more calm but somehow deadlier. I shivered. I knew right there and then that Jasper was not somebody you messed with. If you wanted to live at least.

'Amen to that'

As I observed them something struck me as odd. The stance that they were in reminded me of how Carlisle stood and protected me at dinner. It was unusual and I wonder what it meant.

I heard a little growl in my head.

I saw the complete and utter shock on everyone's face as I stood in front of them.

I smirked at Jasper, Edwards and Bella's surprised faces and Alice's beaming one.

"Hey guys, I changed my mind about joining you for the picnic" I say lightly and make my over to them.

I take in the food and my mouth waters. Dear god, the food! It looked so wonderful! Assorted finger sandwiches, fruit, a bag of chips, potato salad, pasta, chicken and much more. There was even a pie. A pie at a picnic. Classic.

I sat down on the blanket and ignored everyone around me as I dug in. Dear lord was I hungry.

I noticed that everyone around me seemed to unfreeze but I paid it no mind as I stuffed my face.

"Uh, Ash, how in the hell did you get here?" I hear Bella say in disbelief. I look up at her. She is seated in between Edwards legs and staring at me in complete bewilderment. I smile a little.

I shrug nonchalantly, "I hiked" I say in a light tone. I see Edward looking at me in curiosity. Alice looking amused and Jasper smirking at me.

"You hiked?" She repeated in an incredulous tone. I nod and she sputters, "B-but it took us an hour drive in the Jeep then Edward had to run me the rest of the way and your saying you hiked!" She says still completely confused.

I nod and keep eating, trying out the pasta this time. I moan in delight, dam this is good food.

"How did you even know where to find us?" She asks, now looking at me with suspicion. I don't reply as my mouth is stuffed and see her sigh unhappily.

"This is to do with you secret isn't it?" She looks at me with big sad eyes and I feel bad for not telling her my secret until I remember Edward.

I nod and the atmosphere in the forest goes a little tense and I decide to let my mind wander. I now am nibbling on a piece of the pie. Apple pie and it is the most delicious apple pie I have ever tasted. I groan in enjoyment.

"Dear god, this is the best pie I've ever eaten Where did you get it?" I say in between mouthfuls.

I see Alice has an innocent expression that I immediately don't trust as I hear her say, "Oh it was Carlisle. He cooked it"

I blink in surprise and feel... well a little impressed honestly. Was there anything that man couldn't do? He seemed to good to be true.

I purposely avoid looking at Jasper as my mind drifts to the father of the Cullen family. Carlisle Cullen was an enigma. He was just perfect. Simply perfect. His angelic features and hot fuckable body were the perfect mixture between posed, handsome and dignified while having a dark sexy appeal to it. Everything a women wanted. Not to mention that he was a successful doctor. Big plus, shows that he has brains and compassion to boot and also there's the he's adopting so many children thing. He may not be human but I might not be so who cares? The Cullens seem dangerous but I don't think they would hurt me. Not with that display Carlisle put on when Edward got mad at me. Just thinking about it made me giddy inside. He was also chivalrous, trying to protect me like that. He also seems so polite, kind, sweet and genuine. He practically oozed honesty. Now, he was a good cook even though he didn't eat! It was irritating finding such a perfect man, I mean he couldn't be perfect could he? No. He couldn't. Nobody is. We all had our flaws it was just human nature. Or whatever the hell they were. He had his flaws, he just didn't share them. For all I knew he was a nasty person behind such a kind exterior. Or like to torture newborn kittens.

Ash wouldn't admit it but it rattled her seeing such a seemingly perfect man. He was practically like Prince Charming but scolded herself for even thinking that. Prince Charming didn't exist; he was fictional for a reason. Ash didn't really believe in love. Well she did but not for her. Being a naturally pessimistic person she saw all the downfalls and potential pain when it came to romantic love. She didn't want a part of it, never did. She was never good at dealing with emotional pain, it wasn't her. Physical pain yes, she had an incredibly high tolerance for pain; she once crashed into a wall when flying and broke her jaw, cheekbone and legs and managed to walk five miles back home. But not emotional pain. No, even the slightest bit of angst she couldn't cope with so she knew love was not for her. She was not exactly a people person and never thought she could want anybody in that way. As a companion. Someone to spend the rest of her days with.

I always figured that I would live life with friends, family and the occasional lover. But Carlisle... he was making me wonder about him and what it would be like to be with someone like him. He would never hurt me. What would it be like do go on a date with him? He would be a perfect gentlemen, to listen to his opinions and beliefs, he was probably passionate and had strong views. I could talk to him for hours... Ugh no! I couldn't think this. Stop it!

I grew more and more uncomfortable with my thoughts. I couldn't think this. No. I was being ridiculous. Carlisle Cullen was not perfect. He had flaws. I would find them out and when I did I could stop thinking about him. Yes, I would find something that would make me realise that he was just the same as the rest; just better looking. My resolve firmed and I felt relived at my decision.

"So do you?" I hear Alice say in a chipper voice. I turn to look at her watching me expectantly.

"I'm sorry?" I ask.

I notice my inattention doesn't bother her thankfully.

"I said, would you like to have a sleepover? We could get up early tomorrow and go shopping I know you were planning on going tomorrow anyways. We could drive up to Seattle and..." I tune out and she prattles on for a while.

"-Are you staying?" I ask Bella as I interrupt Alice and see her huff and Jasper take her hand to sooth her.

"Oh no I am just staying at home tonight" Bella answered and I sighed knowing what I was about to do.

"Fine ill stay Alice and we can go shopping" I sigh in a dejected tone. Alice squeals and claps her hands not caring about my bitter tone, I mumble under my breath, "god, see the lengths I go to to avoid mind being raped"

I hear laughing and see Jasper chuckling in mirth at what I said and Alice smiling at me affectionately. Edward... well he was scowling at me. I shrugged my shoulders innocently and thought about what he would look like in black bondage get up... with a little thong bent over being paddled by a large hairy man with a handlebar moustache.

Edward looks like he could throw up and cringes in utter disgust.

Its times like these I enjoy having an active imagination.

I let my mind wander, 'oh yes please fuck me johnny' Edward moans in my head as he rocks back and forth, 'aw yeah bouy, take it!' he shouts'

"STOP IT PLEASE" I hear Edward yell and I see him looking at me with a mixture of fury and desperation.

I burst into laughter and see Bella's confused face.

"What is it?" She asks.

"Just my imagination running off with me" I say lightly and see the amused expressions of Alice and Jasper.

I see Bella furrow her eyebrows and about to question me when Alice buts in.

"It doesn't matter. We need to get going anyways, it is going to start drizzling in seventeen minutes" She says in her usual happy tone and bounces up to start collecting the food.

I look up to the sky and surely enough grey clouds loom to warn me of the impending rain. The sky is such a beautiful place. Flying through clouds was such a queer experience. I enjoyed the blistering Texan heat then racing up and cutting through the clouds to cool off, a mixture of the moisture and wind cooling me off perfectly; it was heavenly. I couldn't do that here without dying of hypothermia.

"Hiking back?" I hear Jasper ask.

I look at him and ponder flying back. I consider my options until I see Bella being carefully lifted onto Edwards back.

I perk up as I am struck with the most brilliant idea.

I hear Alice giggle and look to see her shoot me a wicked look, "Oh brilliant idea Ash, I will hurry ahead to get the Jeep and prepare the finish line" She continues giggling in glee and gives Jasper a peck on the lips before collecting the basket and speeding off. I watch her leave and realise that 'dam, the Cullens are fast. Hm, I wonder if I'm faster. Well I guess I will find out' I ponder and hear Edward comment on my thoughts.

"Oh would you like to race?" I hear him say in an excited tone. I see him looking at me eagerly. Huh, boy must love to race.

I hear Jasper groan, "Don't fall for it Ash, Edward just wants to show off, he's slightly faster than all of us and never lets us forget it" I hear him say in a put out voice.

I eye Edward's smug expression and Bella perched on his back looking high from happiness and I suddenly can't wait to knock him down a peg.

"Well lets see if we can beat them eh?" I say looking at Jasper before I turn to Edward, "I'll go on Jasper's back and we will race you back to your house. If I win then you have to stay away from Charlies house for a whole week" I say in a firm voice. I needed to be able to stay in my own home without worrying about a mind-reader.

I hear Bella gasp but ignore her. Edward has a competitive look in his eye and I see him nod, "Alright, but if we win then you have to tell us your secret" He says in a triumphant tone. 'Asshole, he looks like he's already won' I think and see him smirk at me.

"Not yet but I will" He replies my to thoughts in a superior tone. I scowl and look at Jasper who just looks amused by all this.

'you show him baby-doll' I hear him encourage me.

"I hate to tell ye darlin' but Edward is the fastest of us" He drawls and I send him a glare.

"Shut it, we are going to win and that's final" I say in a stubborn tone and I walk behind him ready to jump on his back.

I hear Edward chuckle. I scowl, 'Dickhead, even his chuckles sound condescending' I hear his laughter increase at this and my motivation rises.

I jump onto Jasper's back rather ungracefully and latch my legs around his waist. He holds onto the back on my knees as I settle myself in comfortably. Well as comfortable as you can get perched onto a stone cold living statue.

"you really want to win this don't you?" I hear Jasper mumble, obviously feeling my determined emotions.

"Of course I do, I can't wait to wipe that smug grin off of his pre-pubescent face" I grumble angrily.

I feel Jasper's laughter under me and hear Edward hiss. I send him a wink and he comes up next to me and Jasper to begin the race.

I eye Bella and see her looking nervous and a little worried. I wonder why. I hope she will be alright.

'if you hurt my cousin in any way in this race I will tear your dick up and shove it up your ass' I threaten Edward and see him shoot me a mildly repulsed look but nods in compliance.

I hear him laughing hysterically in my head.

"Alright, let's get this show on the road, shall we?" I hear Jasper say and I begin to focus. I need to win this.

"On the count of three..." I hear Jasper say.

"One..." He starts. My leg muscles tighten.

"Two..." I take a deep breath.

"Three!..." I picture Edward with a cock in his mouth.

We shoot through the forest like an arrow leaving a bow. I am a little startled by the sudden speed. I could travel this fast but so instantaneously? Not really, I don't think so at least.

I hear Edward bellow in the distance, "ASH!"

I giggle and bury myself into Jaspers neck a little.

"What did you do there darlin'? We managed to get the head start" I hear him ask. He sounds completely at ease, not as if he was racing through the forest. He must not get fatigued. Interesting.

"Oh I just pictured him with a nice big juicy cock in his mouth" I say casually. I feel Jasper's feet stutter a little before I hear him burst out in laughter as he runs.

I am rather impressed really, he continues racing deftly through the tree's even though he sounds like he should be doubled over laughing.

Suddenly, the gust of air whips past us and I hear a taunting snarl. 'Dam it!' I think, they must of past us.

I growl in frustration, "Hurry up!" I say in a disgruntled tone and kick him lightly on his side.

"I am goin' as fast as I can" I hear Jasper say and I know then that I will have to use my powers so we can win.

I start to think, how can I do this... we can't switch positions without stopping and I doubt I could carry him on my back, even flying.

I decide the best way is to use both of my powers. Levitate Jasper a little and fly. I hope I can do this because if I mess up then well... I'm dead.

'you can do it, suger-pie, nothin' to worry about. I believe in ye' I hear the assurances I need.

"Jasper, I need you to trust me, I am going to do something but don't worry. It will speed us up" I shout through the wind going past even though it is unnecessary.

"Okay darlin' I trust you" I hear him say. I move my legs down a little in preparation to his racing feet and begin to hover Jasper above the ground a little. As he lifts from the ground his legs stop moving and I strike, I lock his ankles together and levitate him above the tree's. I then shoot off as fast as I can go.

Even though I have been flying for years I have never actually flew at my full speed. I don't know how fast I can go. It is odd and I wonder why I have never done this. Honestly, it is just because I can move so fast that I have never needed to go that quickly. Until now that is.

I concentrate on where I am going and only after ten seconds I see us pass Edwards and Bella's form. Thirty seconds later I begin to recognise the forest more and know we must be nearing the Cullen house. I drop to the forest floor and hike myself up to let Jasper finish the race.

"Finish it" I yell and immediately he shoots off. This time I am not so startled and I quickly realise how much slower he runs than I can fly. I grin wickedly at this, loving that I am faster than them as he suddenly jump in the air.

I look down and see us sailing across a small river. I then see a improvised finish line made out of pink ribbon and see the Cullens standing around watching our approach. My eyes land on Carlisle and I feel a little embarrassment. Fuck, I probably look a right mess right now with wind blown hair. I wish there was a subtle way for me to fix it.

Jasper tears through the ribbon and comes to an immediate halt. I jerk a little but thankfully am alright.

"YAY!" I hear Alice shout and clap her hands. I jump off Jaspers back and look towards the Cullens. Emmett is staring open mouthed and Rosalie looking at us with a shocked expression, "How in the hell did you beat Edward!" I hear him shout in awe.

I see Carlisle not looking very happy although he has a polite smile on his face. My stomach screws up seeing him like that. What is up with him? Is he ok?

Then, after about a minute and a half after we finished, Edward and Bella arrive.

Edward stopped and gapes at me and Jasper in disbelief and frustration.

"So, you guys took your time" I comment in a bored voice, "Stop for a little detour?" My eyebrows wiggle and I see Bella blush as she slips off his back. Emmett laughs as well as Alice and Rosalie.

Alice then decides to give Jasper a congratulatory smack on the lips and I am surprised as she repeats to process with me but without the passion obviously. I've never been pecked on the lips by a girl before.

I hear a growl coming from the Cullens but before I can look I hear Edwards voice.

"How did you beat me? There is no way you could of, you must of cheated" He says in an indignant tone, looking very unhappy.

I smirk, "it isn't my fault you are so slow" I drawl and start walking over to the rest of the Cullens.

"I am not slow" Edward says in a completely offended tone. I try not to smile.

"Besides, I had Bella on my back, that must have slowed me down" I hear him try to reason.

As I reach Rosalie and Emmett he holds his hand out for a high five and I see Rosalie wink at me.

"Hey!" Bella shouts angrily, giving Edward the stink eye. I laugh seeing this.

"C'mon Edward don't blame Bella. I had to carry Jasper and he sure is a heavier load than a little human girl" I say.

"HEY!" Bella shouts louder and her glare is now fixed on me. I give her an apologetic smile.

"AWESOME!" I hear Emmett yell and look at me in excitement. "we have to race!"

"Yes, I would like a re-match without Bella this time" Edward says in a serious tone, looking determined.

"Sorry guys, unlike you I actually get tired. I need a little rest. Maybe some more of the leftovers from the picnic..." I muse, wanting to get some more of that delicious pie.

"Oh did you enjoy the food?" I hear Carlisle ask. I turn to see the happy look in his eye and I swear to god my insides melted to goo. Good thing he's a doctor.

I smile at him, "Oh yeah, I loved it, Jesus, who knew you could cook? It was amazing Carlisle" I say honestly and see his smile increase.

"I am glad. I am willing to cook for you at any time you wish, it would be my pleasure" He says in such a smooth pleasing voice, my ears would orgasm if they could.

I hear Edward laugh as he must of heard my thoughts. I blush spectacularly but feel my embarrassment lessen very quickly and send a thank you glance to Jasper who just winks back.

I hear a throat clearing and feel embarrassed again as I see Carlisle trying to gain back my attention, I hastily answer him, "Oh thank you, you don't have to do that. You shouldn't make offers like that or I might never leave" I joke and see his eyes glint with something.

"Then don't" He says and winks. Half of me feels like I am about to swoon and the other heats up. 'Fuck, why does he has to be so smooth?' I think in dismay.

"Ash, I am about to go to my library to finish off some paperwork, would you care to join me?" Carlisle offers and his golden eyes look a little tense. 'He probably just doesn't want to invite me but is being polite' I think sadly.

"Of course she does" I hear Edward answer for me. I shoot him a surprised and annoyed look.

"Excellent" I hear Carlisle say and I see the true happiness in his eyes. Fuck... I am in trouble. Is this such a good idea to be spending time with him...?

'no it's not!' I hear him say angrily.

Suddenly I remember my plan from earlier today, 'find a flaw, find a flaw, there must be something wrong with him, just find it and you can stop thinking about him' I chant to myself.

'thats a fuckin' stupid idea, you don't need proof, just stay away from the guy' He says in irritation but I dismiss him. No. My plan is fool proof.

Carlisle holds out his arm for me to take in a very gentlemanly manner. I feel giddy at the gesture. 'Stay calm Ash, fuck, you are going to touch him... only his arm but still!'

I hear Edward make a kind of snort laughing sound and know that he has heard me.

I send him my most impressive death glare and see him eyeing me and Carlisle amusedly. I take Carlisle's arm and feel my heart start to beat faster. Fuck, he can probably hear that.

Emmett and Rose are nowhere to be seen but Alice Bella, Jasper and Edward are still hanging about.

Feeling particularly annoyed by Edward I start picturing naked men, and focusing on their cocks.

I see him furrow his eyebrow, "I am starting to think you have a problem Ash, you think of Penis's too much" I hear him mutter. Jasper starts laughing hysterically.

I feel Carlisle stiffen a little and feel a rumbling. 'Oh great, he probably thinks I am some sort of a whore now'

"Oh Ash, don't think you have gotten out of our shopping trip, we can go tomorrow after you wake up. It's better that way anyways, we can spend more time in the shops" I hear Alice say happily.

I nod and feel Carlisle start leading me away from the group. I wish I hadn't agreed to stay. With Edward out of Charlie's for a week I could of stayed home tonight and not go shopping. 'Dam, that came back to bite me on the ass' I think and hear Edward chuckle.

I once again curse Edward Cullen.

"So how are you enjoying Fork's so far Ash?" I hear Carlisle inquire politely.

"It's alright" I shrug and he leads me through the front of the house. I try not to think of my arm on his and the tingling sensation of where we are joined.

"I really love the forest but I am also missing the Texan heat" I say sadly.

I see Carlisle nod and staring at me from the corner of my eye. He looks really interested for some reason. He is probably faking interest but dam is he good at it.

I am led up the stairs and notice a large wooden cross hanging on the wall. It is beautiful and looks very old.

"are you religious?" I hear him ask. I continue staring at the cross.

"No, not particularly. It is not that I don't believe that there may be a god or gods out there but I just haven't been raised that way" I answer honestly.

I see the fascinated look on Carlisle's face and feel the urge to continue, "Not that I don't have strong moral values, I do, but I just don't equate that with religion. I think believing strongly in right and wrong, justice and sins is not about religion at all. Religion to me is more about spirituality and what will happen after we die and if we are forgiven for our all do bad things, make mistakes, that is a fact of life and somehow some way, be it god or karma or simple law we will be punished. I think that no one should be judged by the sins of their past if they have received their punishment and have repented, I would like to think of God would feel same way and in the same token those that try to be good will be rewarded..." I let out as my mind wanders staring at the spectacular cross.

I don't hear anything from Carlisle and turn to see his golden eyes boring into me intently. His eyes are burning with strong emotions I can't decipher and feel myself being drawn in like a moth to a flame. I see his eyes flicker downwards and see him gulp. He looks up into my eyes and suddenly he looks wary.

"That is a very kind way to think" he says in a husky voice which is thick with emotion. I bite my lip, that voice is going to be the death of me if he keeps talking like that.

I nod, not trusting my voice and Carlisle continues leading me towards his office.

We reach a nondescript but beautiful oaken door and he holds it open for me.

Inside is quite cosy and tastefully decorated with a large desk at the far side of the room. The walls are of course lined with hundred and hundreds of books.

There is also a comfortable looking black sofa near a fire place. This place looks very old fashioned but somehow it suits Carlisle perfectly.

I turn to see Carlisle eyeing me anxiously, I smile warmly and say, "It is beautiful in here" I say softly. I see him let out a puff of breath and smile brilliantly almost in relief. Surely he wasn't worried about my opinion?

I make my way over to the couch for a seat and see Carlisle join me. Before I let the awkwardness settle in I ask,

"Are you religious Carlisle?" I ask in curiosity. He is a doctor so perhaps not, I tend not to equate religion with science in my mind but I could be wrong.

"Mostly, yes" He answers easily and my heart drops a little. What must he think of me? Religious people are quite judgemental and very strict on moral values. Being the foul mouthed, dirty minded girl I am, I doubt he likes me very much.

As I look into his warm, inviting golden eyes I scold myself for stereotyping religious people. He probably isn't like that. Then again... he probably this. This must be his flaw.

"My father was a pastor and held very firm religious views. Although I would like to think of myself as religious I do not hold quite the same beliefs as my father" He answers and immediately my heart soars and drops. 'Dam, not a religious fanatic. I will find something wrong with him'. I won't admit to myself that a teeny tiny part of me is pleased by this.

"Oh, is religion something that is important to you?" I ask with deep curiosity in my voice. I see his eyes looking straight into mine.

"Yes it is. Although I am dissimilar to you in that I do equate it with morality and justice. Both which are very important to me, I would like to think that I have always done the right thing" I see a touch of sadness enter his eyes and have the urge to banish it completely.

I reach out hesitantly and place my hand over his. I see the surprise and affection in his eyes as I do this. They also burn with an unnamed emotion and I bite my lip and look away from the intense stare.

"I am sure you have Carlisle, have a little faith. I believe it is also the effort that counts, I am sure god would agree with me" I say while keeping my eyes away from him.

I feel his cool hand move under mine very slowly and butterflies erupt in my stomach. I try to keep my breathing steady but my heart rate most likely gives me away.

My whole body is focused on my hand even if my eyes are trained towards the book shelves.

His hand moves very slowly and gently, stroking me so softly with his thumb until his hand encircles mine tenderly. My heart is racing now and I wonder what he is doing.

I turn my head shyly and see his eyes are even more focused on me and gauging my reaction carefully. His hand squeezed mine a little and I swear my heart stutters. Carlisle gives me a soft welcoming grin and I know I have to stand up to get away from this disaster waiting to happen.

I move swiftly and stand from my position on the sofa and make my way over to the books, needing space from the utterly gorgeous man. I feel a pang of loss as I move away from him.

I don't dare to look back as I scan the book shelf.

I see a large selection of classical books and medical journals. Typical. But something of interest catches my eye, I see the Lord of the Rings books and eye them with interest.

"Are you a fan of the books?" I hear Carlisle's voice say lowly from behind me.

I jump a little and look back to see him standing near, but still a polite distance from me. I blush and see his eyes following the redness.

"oh, uh-not-not really" I stutter in an undignified way. He was so close to me. I avoid looking at him in the eye.

"I see. What books do you prefer?" He asks with interest sparking in his eyes.

"Uh, well I do enjoy fantasy and sci fi. They are probably my favourites. I do like some classics but most of them irritate me" I say and I scan his selection of classics. A lot of romances there. Bella would be sure to love it.

"Oh? I have never been a huge fan of fantasy and science fiction myself, may I ask why these genre's appeal to you and which classics do you prefer?" He asks with definite interest and deep curiosity in his tone. Why is he so interested?

"Well" I began and move casually away from him, moving along the bookcase, "I enjoy sci fi and fantasy because it is so different from real life. I like reading things that are completely different from normal life, I know about normal life but I what I don't know about is how the world could be" I comment.

I turn to see him staring at me in total fascination, he looks completely enthralled. I continue before I can be suckered in by his expression.

"I like some classical books but classical books are good if you want to think and analyse something deeply. Most the time when I read I want to be taken into a different world and enjoy the ride, not stop to think about it. However, I do like some classics and what they are about. Unfortunately, classics tend to be a bit preachy and I don't like that" I frown and move further away looking at his books.

"What classics do you enjoy?" I hear him ask. I think about it for a moment as I eye his collection. He has every book I could possibly think of. Well, most of the suave classic ones. Not the the guilty pleasure ones that you wouldn't display in a posh office like this. I am glad, I might faint if I saw fifty shades of grey sitting on his book shelf.

I list the classics that I like from his collection, "Animal Farm, Moby-Dick, The Scarlet Letter, The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Lord of the Flies but my favourites of all time are The Great Gatsby and To Kill a Mockingbird" I comment whilst running my spine done a few of the books I mentioned.

"Interesting choices, they all have running themes of morality and values. I can see what you mean when you said that justice was very important to you. I understand more so now your desire to enforce the law" He states.

I blush at his correct assessment of my character.

"What about you? Which of these books are your favourites?" I ask, genuinely curious, he surely doesn't like the same books as me.

He gives me a crooked grin and moves to where I am standing. Dam! Why am I so affected by his proximity. He is quite taller than me but not overly so. The perfect height for me. We would fit quite well together.

'DAM IT, SHUT THE HELL UP HORMONES' I scream in my head.

I see Carlisle quirk his head curiously like he could read my mind and shake it a little as if to clear it.

"I, like you, am also partial to Lord of the Flies but I also prefer Great Expectations, Wuthering Heights, Jane Eyre and Sherlock Holmes" He mentions. I nod my head absent-mindedly, not a shock there.

"Similar to Bella, she loves the whole romance thing" I roll my eyes and see can see the gleam of curiosity in his eyes which means he is probably going to ask me about it,

"What other books do you read?" I ask before he can question me.

Carlisle list off a few books that I have no idea even existed. I nod politely thought.

"And you?" He asks.

I think for a moment, "I don't know, hitch hikers guide to the galaxy, Percy Jackson, Game of Thrones, Watchmen, Dark Tower Series..." I say and suddenly my mind pops up with a brilliant idea.

"And the Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy" I comment off-handedly. They weren't actually one of my favourite books, I read them because of the hype surrounding it and well... it certainly opened my eyes to a lot of things but as an actual story it was terrible.

I turn hoping to see disgust on Carlisle's face and see that there is no way that he would be interested in a girl like me but he just looks confused. I sigh internally, of course he won't have read the series. He is such a gentleman.

"I have read all of the books you mentioned aside from the last you mentioned. I am afraid I have not even heard of these books. Tell me about them" He asks.

I consider telling him but don't think I can handle the scorn on his face and want to avoid him looking at me like that. Better him realise what a train wreck I am when I'm not around. Not a dignified lady that he is looking for. I feel a pang of sadness at that thought.

"It's... a romance I suppose with a twist" I say slyly and smirk at him. I see the interest in his eyes and know for a fact he will read them.

'I kind of wish I could see his face as he reads them, the good doctor will shit a brick and most likely be scarred for life' I think with amusement.

I see Carlisle look at the door in shock and then look at me with even more curiosity in his eyes. I wonder what that is about.

Just then I hear my stomach rumbling and smile sheepishly at him.

"Sorry" I apologise. I see him frown.

"No, don't apologise, it is my fault from keeping you occupied. Please allow me to make it up to you, I can make you some dinner?" He asks but looks quite hopeful. 'God, he even wants to cook for me?, I need to stop this and fast before I fall and fall hard'.

"I would like that thank you" I answer back and his smile back is brilliant.

He then proceeds to lead me out of the room and I smile and thank him.

We make our way down the stairs and I am irritated to see that my plan to discover a major turn off of Carlisle is failing miserably. All I am doing is making him seem even more interesting to me. Maybe I should try a different tactic... hm...

'I know!' I think happily. Carlisle is clearly an awesome catch even if he does have a flaw it wouldn't a deal breaker but there is no way someone like him would go for someone like me. So far, I've been on my best behaviour around him and why wouldn't I be? He's been lovely to me. But not now. Oh no, I will show him the worst of me and he will surely start to create distance between us. He will read the Fifty shades and be disgusted but what else could I do to put him off...

hm...

We enter the kitchen and I take a seat on a stool at the table as Carlisle begins puttering around.

"Man, I'm fucking starving" I comment. Here it goes. Number one: Swearing. A gentleman such as him probably thinks its vile for a woman to swear. And so it begins.

Sure enough I see him pause for a moment as he reached up into a cupboard before continuing on. 'Good, I can see it working...'

At that moment Bella and Edward enter the kitchen. Bella smiles at me happily and moves to sit beside me but Edward... he looks amused. This can't be good. He is also watching me.

I scowl at him and he smirks back before looking towards Carlisle and leaning on the counter casually.

"Do you mind making some food for Bella also? She will be staying here tonight with Ash" Edward asks his father. Carlisle turns and gives me a fleeting look before looking at Edward.

"Of course son, I would not mind at all" He replies kindly. 'Jesus, why is this guy always so composed and kind?' I think angrily.

I see Edwards lips twitch.

"So your staying also Bella huh?" I turn to my cousin and see her smile happily.

"Yep, That way I get to be with Edward" She says in a dreamy voice. Edward looks at her lovingly and I make a fake gagging sound.

I see Edward look at me annoyingly and Bella blush.

"Oh c'mon. You guys see each other all the fuckin' time. The only reason I agee'd to stay here was because I wanted my thoughts private for a little while" I huff and cross my arms.

I eye Carlisle to see he is chopping vegetables and putting them in a big pot.

Edward speaks to me, "I apologise that you do not like me listening in your thoughts but I will try not to listen and not judge you based on your thoughts" He says in a kind tone. 'Hmph, I can see where Carlisle's influence has come into play'. I see him trying to fight a smile.

"Oh really? Because I heard you make a comment on not liking me thinking about naked men. That's pretty judgemental" I say and congratulate myself. That's number two: Show myself to be the filthy minded girl that I am. Carlisle would no doubt prefer women who are modest and shy, like Bella.

I hear a pot banging and see Carlisle looking at us with a sheepish expression. He had dropped something. Bella looked shocked, why he just dropped something? And Edward looking like he was trying to contain laughter.

"It is natural for a young woman to think about naked men... it is just the... compromising positions... that you seem to... imagine... me... in" Edward says looking uncomfortable.

I laugh loudly, "I have an active imagination and like my fantasies. If you don't like that they are explicit in nature you can fuck off" I stick my tongue out at him. Number three: Be inconsiderate about others. Carlisle surely prefers woman who are kind and selfless.

I eye him again and take in his ass as he stirs a pot with his back to us. 'Dam he has a fine ass, what I wouldn't give to see it without those pants on'

Edward just smirks at me. He has an annoying smug expression on his face that I don't like. 'Why so smug...' I think.

Bella touches my arm to get my attention. She looks at me worriedly and bites her lip "I am sorry about bringing Edward around so much, I didn't know it makes you so uncomfortable. Its just... I love him so much and want to be around him all the time. You can understand that, can't you?" I see her look at me hopefully.

I try to understand, I truly do. Maybe if it wasn't my baby cousin then I could be objective.

"Not really Bella, I don't understand why you want him around so much" I say honestly.

I turn to Edward, "no offence" I say only half meaning it.

He nods back at me.

Bella looks determined as she looks at me, "I love him" She says simply. Oh great, now they are giving each other gooey eyes.

"As I love you" He replies and reaches over to take her hand and kisses her knuckles. She blushes like the sweet girl she is.

"And?" I interrupt their moment rudely. They both look at me in shock.

"And what?" Bella asks with her eyebrows furrowed and a little crease forms between them. I have an urge to smooth it out.

"And so what? You love him? Thats great and all but I don't see why that means you have to be around each other constantly. I understand wanting to be around each other but all of the time? No, I don't get it" I say strongly. I have never been in love but this I believe. When I want to be with someone I don't want to be someones partner or someones girlfriend, I want to be Ash who happens to be with someone. Not somebodies wife.

I say as much to Bella and Edward. They look at me as if I have two heads.

Edward looks at me strangely and I can see him about to protest. Seems like a typical Edward trait, if you don't agree with him then you are wrong.

"You do not want to be somebodies, why not? If you love them then you give them everything of you and become theirs" Edward says like this is the most obvious thing in the world.

I sigh.

"Yes and I will become theirs but I will also be me" I explain. They still don't understand this.

"Well I am proud to be yours Edward" Bella perks up and looks at him lovingly. He moves towards her to give her a light peck on the lips the kiss then it transforms into something deeper as she brings her hands into his unruly hair and he holds onto her hips.

I sigh at the display.

"And that, god, Public Display of Affection? Ugh, get a room, the only thing you should do in public is a light kiss and holding hands unless you need to make a point" I say.

I check on Carlisle again but I only see the back of him. I swear I see him smile in the reflection of the pot but I am unsure.

"What do you mean, 'make a point?'" Bella asks.

I smirk.

"I mean if someone is trying to move in on your man and you need to make a point. Show that that he is mine. Then I would say public displays of affection are acceptable" I say and pat myself on the back internally. Number four: Be possessive. Carlisle surely wants a woman who isn't jealous and knows her place. He is old fashioned like that.

I hear a creaking noise and turn to see where it is coming from. I see the pot lid deformed into an odd shape. I smile at my victory. Carlisle obviously is getting irritated at my behaviour.

I hear Edward bust into laughter and look at him oddly. His eyes are darting back and forward between me and Carlisle in obvious glee.

'What the fuck is going on with him?' I need to know.

"What the fuck are you laughing at?" I ask angrily. He laughs even more.

I don't get to find out what he's on because then dinner is served. It is a beautiful soup that I have no idea what it is but still makes my mouth water.

Me and Bella thoroughly enjoy our meals and Carlisle even stays and makes conversation with us. This surprises me, after my behaviour I would assume he would want as far away from me as possible. Guess not. Not yet anyway.

After we are finished and Carlisle collects our plates, Alice twirls gracefully into the room.

"Move time!" She sings and I see her carrying a bag with assorted nail products.

I see Bella look weary and resined. I simply shrug my shoulders and follow Alice and Bella out of the room. Of course with Edward as he is now Bella's shadow. He snorts at this.

I pause at the door and look back at Carlisle. He stops cleaning and looks up to me and smiles affectionately.

"Thank you for a meal Carlisle. It was so fuckin' good, orgasmic, if I could cum from eating then I would of, thanks" I wink at him and then leave the room. I am sure I hear a faint groan behind me. Good! He is nauseous at what I've said I hope saying something so outrageous would surely be the nail in the coffin.

I ignore the sadness and sense of loss I feel at doing this. He needed to know. No way I could have been like a man like that anyway.

I feel quite proud of myself as I enter the living room only to see Alice, Edward and Jasper doubled over in laughter. Me and Bella look at each other in confusion but neither of us knows what is going on.

What the hell is so amusing...