1600s
Aro was annoyed by this turn of events. One of his guards had reported that Bella's territory had expanded substantially and that the border was defined by a mix of Alistair's and Bella's scent. He hadn't believed Jane's memories of Bella saying he was her mate, but this proved it. Now that gifted vampire would forever be out of his reach.
On the other hand he had Carlisle now.
According to the memories Aro read it had only been a year since Carlisle met Bella, yet he was almost a completely different person. This new Carlisle was much more confident and entertaining. He flirted with the single female vampires in the coven, but always turned down their advances. He theorized on ways to improve the medical field. And he was just too interesting of a man for Aro not to like him. Carlisle always made him think, despite their large difference in age.
Aro was also surprised, yet pleased with the level of control Carlisle had over his bloodlust. It already was exemplary when he first arrived, but his time around the blood that was often spilt in the castle made him almost immune to the scent.
They spoke almost every day and Aro even considered Carlisle to be one of his few friends. He was sad knowing that one day Carlisle would eventually leave once he had learned all he could here.
As a way to stave off that day Aro had many of his guards leave in search of new books and ideas.
Aro has a bit of a man-crush on Carlisle.