Chapter 12: "Sacrifice"

Disclaimer: The proprietary elements of Breaking Dawn, including its original treatment and all of the characters, belong solely to Stephenie Meyer. No copyright infringement is intended.

Bella's POV

As I stepped into the posh reception area, I noted that very little had changed. Pale leather couches still formed cozy groupings; shimmering crystal vases held vibrantly colored bouquets. And, just as before, the flowers' scent reminded me of a funeral home. My heightened olfactory sensitivity made it possible to detect every floral note in the stagnant air. But, the headiest fragrance, the aroma that swirled in my stony nostrils and threatened to destroy my tenuous newborn resolve, was most definitely human. Once again, I was grateful for Emmett's steadying hand on my arm; I needed a firm grip on reality under the decidedly surreal circumstances. I had to focus now, or Elizabeth's life might be a stake.

The last hurdle, a female receptionist behind the polished mahogany counter, stiffened slightly at our approach. Human, without a doubt, but not Gianna. I cringed, considering the probable grounds for her predecessor's early termination.

"Can I help you," the dark-haired receptionist asked politely, eyeing the two of us. She didn't seem afraid.

I spoke before Emmett could answer. Unbeknownst to him, this was as far as I'd planned to have him accompany me.

"I'm Bella Cullen. Aro is expecting me."

Emmett shot me a suspicious look. But my gaze remained focused on the woman; I'd used all of the air in my lungs and couldn't afford to take another breath. No mistakes. I was so close to seeing my daughter now; I could almost feel Elizabeth's presence. Soon, she'd be in Edward's arms—where she belonged. The sacrifice I was about to make, if acceptable to Aro, would assure me of that. My alliance for her freedom, my life for hers. It was the only way.

Edward's POV

Unacceptable. Not as a newborn. Not ever. Bella shouldn't be anywhere near this God-forsaken city. Hadn't I made myself clear?

My teeth came together audibly as Carlisle and I made our way through the maze of tunnels leading to the Volturi's inner chambers. Our escorts were obviously anxious to deliver us to the pre-arranged destination and thereby complete their intermediary assignment. Aro was waiting. And I was just minutes from Elizabeth. But I was torn: Was it possible that Bella was already within the city limits? No. She couldn't be. Emmett would have contacted us immediately upon their arrival. Wouldn't he have? The fact that he'd allowed Bella to make the journey at all was enough to discredit his judgment completely as far as I was concerned. What I wouldn't give to get my hands on him right now.

We reached the end of the tunnel and passed through the rusty iron grate, which slammed shut behind us with a clang, followed by the snap of a lock. Demetri paused to answer his cell phone which had beeped just once inside his jacket pocket.

"Keep moving," Felix ordered, motioning for us to proceed through the small door made of thinner, interlaced bars which was standing open. "All the way to the elevator."

Jane waited there, one hand holding the doors open for us. Her expression was apathetic.

"Carlisle, Edward. Welcome to Volterra," she said sardonically.

Carlisle tipped his head. My eyes never left Jane's doll-like face. The mere thought of this creature in such close proximity to my infant daughter was suddenly more than I could bear. Overwhelming hatred coursed through me.

"Where is she?" I hissed. "I want to see Elizabeth. Now."

"Perfect," Demetri said, sliding into the elevator before the doors closed. "Aro has just requested that we take you directly to her. He extends his apologies, as he is temporarily detained, but promises to join us shortly."

Jane and Demetri exchanged a glance, but their thoughts were carefully guarded. I was distracted at once by the images of Elizabeth that flooded both of their minds simultaneously. It had only been a few days, but as I saw her in their recent memories, she looked…older.

"If you've harmed even one hair on her innocent head," I began abruptly, a low snarl building deep in my chest.

Felix smiled—his hand was raised, palm up; he curled his fingers twice, inviting me forward.

"You'll what?" Jane raised an eyebrow.

I leaned towards Felix, and Carlisle cleared his throat. Not now, he thought. Patience, son.

"We're anxious to see her, as you can imagine," Carlisle interjected, turning to face Jane. "Alice and Jasper, as well."

"Of course. Convenient, then, that they're already together," she inserted a slight sneer into her reedy voice. "Right this way."