Author's note: I'm baaaaaaaaaack! Sorry for the delay, but I have come back with an extra long chapter to make up for your wait. Read, enjoy, review if you can :)
Chapter twelve
Sunlight may not kill vampires, but it sure as Hell made them scarce. Due to Forks being gifted with several days of (relatively) summery weather, it wasn't until the following week that I got to have coffee with Alice again, although it didn't stop her driving me to and from work each day. We took our customary table in the diner to celebrate our first lunch date of September and I was eager to know the reason behind her temporary disappearance. I was aware that, although the sun didn't hurt them, they couldn't stroll around in it, but none of the trio had gone into specifics.
As usual, Alice didn't join me in my order of food and drink, but she no longer needed to pretend it was due to a lack of hunger. That was the first example of how things were very different, yet somehow the same. I watched my friend as she took the opposing seat and it was like seeing her for the first time all over again. Nothing about her had changed, but my perception was irrevocably altered as I started to notice things that ignorance had once blinded me to.
When we'd met outside the bookstore, a wide grin was plastered on her face, but I couldn't miss the veiled hesitation in her ochre eyes. I immediately set about removing it from her countenance permanently and it only took a few minutes for me to complete the mission. She was back to her chirpy, talkative self by the time we reached the diner and, whilst adding sugar to my coffee, I waited patiently for the chance to ask my question.
"So you've noticed?" she quipped. "Well, sunlight may not hurt us, but if you saw is in it, you'd see why we avoid it. To be honest, it's not all that interesting, really..."
She was dragging it out and I knew it was purposely done-the smirk on her face told me so. Eventually she relented. "Alright, Bella, don't have an aneurysm, I'll tell you. I'm not sure exactly how to explain without it sounding a little...silly."
"Why, do you grow antlers or something?"
"Not quite, although that would be an interesting sight to see," she chuckled, before deciding to practise her origami skills on my napkin. "No, it's more like when sunlight hits our skin, we turn into anthropomorphic glitter balls."
I nearly snorted my coffee through my nose. I couldn't help it, but her description conjured such a bizarre image in my head that laughter was unavoidable. I had to snatch the napkin back from Alice to clean my face as she smiled at my reaction. "Well, I can see why that might draw unwanted attention," I remarked, once I'd finally regained my composure. "Although, it would be pretty amazing to see."
"That wasn't so much of a hint as an outright request, Isabella," Alice chuckled. "But I'll forgive you and who knows, maybe you will get to see one day."
I couldn't even begin to express how much I hoped that would be true. Would the fascination never end? I was pretty sure a psychologist out there somewhere would relish the thought of writing a paper on something like this, but I didn't care if my interest in a family of vampires was considered unhealthy, it wouldn't stop me. Predictably, attaining the answers to one question only brought others to mind.
"It seems like you have to put quite a bit of effort into living amongst humans," I said. "Is it worth it?"
"Absolutely," she answered without hesitation, before lowering her voice. "I've been a vampire for about ninety years-there is only so much entertainment skulking around in the shadows can provide. So many of our kind live that way and I just can't understand it. Why waste such an opportunity? I'm immortal and want to see the world!"
The enthusiasm was infectious and I found myself leaning closer to listen.
"Heightened senses and abilities can be used for so much more than simply hunting. I want to use my keen eyesight to gaze upon a painting by Leonardo Da Vinci. What better way to use enhanced hearing than listening to an orchestra or a rock band? I want to enjoy every experience I possibly can, knowing there's no time limit. It's like college; I've been several times now and loved every single one."
"Really?"
"Yeah. Think about it, whether I pass or fail doesn't matter, because I can always do it again. That freedom allows me to fully immerse myself in the process of learning and see how attitudes and ideas change over time. I love it, even if it does make me a nerd nowadays."
I envied her in that moment. If someone offered me the chance to restart my college years, I'd probably sell my soul in exchange. Unfortunately, that wasn't an option for me; I had one chance and pretty much blew it. I chased away the threat of a bad mood by taking a large swig of coffee and questioning Alice further. Most people would have probably got tired of such relentless inquisition by that point, but not Alice. In fact, none of them had shown even the slightest impatience with me and I wondered if perhaps my knowledge of their true identities was as much of a novelty for them as for me. After all, as far as I knew, I was the only human being in Forks they didn't have to pretend around anymore. Unless you counted the Quileutes, of course, but they weren't exactly people the Cullens could have coffee with on a regular basis.
"I guess I kind of understand what you mean," I said. "About experiencing things, but, still, it seems to require a massive amount of work. Do you ever find it difficult? I mean, has anyone-besides me-ever found out or come close to it?"
Alice considered the question for a moment before answering. "The thing is, this is the first time we've ever really attempted living amongst humans for a prolonged period of time-at least, for Jasper and I it is. Generally, hiding our supernatural "quirks" is pretty easy in an age where science is far more prolific than superstition. The hardest part, I think, is controlling the less savoury aspect of our nature. There are times, although they're pretty rare nowadays, that we struggle, Jasper especially as he's the newest convert to the lifestyle."
"You mean..." I struggled a little as we were heading towards less comfortable territory. "The whole...not-eating-humans thing?"
"Yeah." She sounded as sheepish as me. It was hardly surprising, really. How comfortable would people be if their Big Mac attempted intelligent conversation with them before they ate it? Now that was an analogy I wanted to erase completely. "Obviously, we would never have decided to live here if we didn't think we could handle it, but, even the greatest experience an occasional wobble." The expression on my face must have been worrying as she immediately held her hands up in reassurance. "Don't worry, Bella, nothing bad has ever happened, it's just a test on our restraint, that's all. Luckily, Carlisle has taught us enough to allow us to walk away from any difficult situations. It's been a very long time since I faced anything like that, though."
"So do people, um, taste better than other animals, then?" This had to be the weirdest conversation I'd ever had.
"Yes, unfortunately," she replied apologetically. "I'm not sure why. Carlisle could probably tell you."
Her awkwardness was interesting to behold. It was clear she hated the idea of feeding off people, but I wondered what caused that repulsion. Obviously others of their kind didn't share that attitude, so why were these three different? "Are there many others who follow your diet?"
"I only know of a few others who do, but there may be more we've not yet met."
"What made you all decide to do it?"
"Honestly? Carlisle. As far as I know, none of the vampires I've met living this lifestyle chose to do so until meeting him. I don't think any of us were aware it was even possible, to be honest. When we're first changed..." She paused for a moment and her intense gaze locked with mine. "Please tell me if any of this gets too much to hear." I nodded and she continued. "When we're first changed, the need for blood is all that consumes us and human blood possesses the strongest lure by far. It takes a long time for us to be able to behave in a civilised manner and being near any people is a definite no-no for at least the first few years."
"How did Carlisle do it, then? He said he's never fed on a human."
"It's something we all wish we knew and could replicate," Alice replied, voice enveloped in awe. "But his self control has become rather legendary amongst our kind. Did he tell you anything about how he came to be a vampire?"
"No, we never got that far." I was beyond intrigued. I could feel my pulse starting to race at the prospect of the information I was possibly about to receive, but would he approve? I didn't want Alice to start sharing anything without his permission.
"Well, he was first bit-"
"Wait," I interrupted. "Is he going to be alright with you telling me this?"
"Of course," she assured me. "I wouldn't do so otherwise. He'd happily tell you himself if asked."
I leaned back in my chair, not entirely convinced. It still felt a little like gossiping to me, but curiosity ensured my mouth stayed shut.
"Anyway," Alice said. "Carlisle was bitten whilst leading one of his father's many hunts for werewolves, vampires and such. Growing up in the deeply religious household that he did, Carlisle was naturally terrified and repulsed by what he had become and even tried to kill himself several times."
I tried to stifle a gasp. The level of nonchalance with which Alice recounted the events was almost disturbing. Did every vampire initially feel this way?
"Of course, every attempt was unsuccessful and he was forced to simply hide away from humanity to avoid hurting anyone. I don't know how he managed to last so long without feeding even once. I can't even begin to explain just how strong the urge is; it's utter agony to go without any kind of blood for more than a few days and he lasted several weeks. That, more than anything, shows just how strong his self-control was even then. Eventually, of course, he was driven mad by the hunger and unable to resist when a herd of deer passed. That was how he realised he could sustain himself on animal blood. Since then, he's had an incredible amount of time to perfect his restraint, meaning that blood now has almost no effect on him."
I sat in stunned silence. There was such sadness, yet such hope in Carlisle's story and affection coated every word Alice uttered about him. There was truly a strong bond between them and I was starting to see these vampires, not as the demonic monsters of myth, but people forced to make the best of an unfortunate situation-it didn't seem as though any of them had chosen the lifestyle, after all. My admiration for all of them had grown immensely in just that short space of time.
"Bella," Alice called softly. A distant expression must have crossed my face during my ruminations. "Are you alright?" she asked.
"I'm just...trying to take it all in," I admitted. "Everything you guys are, do and go through. It's so bizarre, but pretty incredible when you think about it."
"Not really," she insisted without a hint of false modesty. "We just made a choice to rise above our circumstances."
Well, that was another way of putting it, I supposed. There was only one little thing that concerned me. "Does Jasper struggle that badly?"
Alice took a deep breath, before letting out a gentle sigh. "Sometimes," she answered. "It's why he doesn't venture out as often as Carlisle and I. He's improved so much even in these last few years, but his control isn't quite up to the level of mine. He's not far from it, though and I don't want you to worry. If anything was going to happen, it already would have."
It went some way to explaining his stand-offish behaviour during our first encounter and I tried not to be afraid, but self preservation cautioned me to remain wary of Jasper, just to be on the safe side.
After gulping down the last of my coffee, I realised with a start that I was late back to work and Alice's laughter followed me out of the diner as I raced back to the bookstore. I certainly had a great deal to occupy my mind during the second half of my shift and, as much as I tried not to let it affect my job, several customers had to repeat themselves when speaking to me. I was glad when I could finally head home. Alice and I were quiet during the drive back to Forks, but I could feel her eyes on me from time to time. When we finally reached my driveway, she put a hand on my arm before I could open the car door.
"Are you alright, Bella?" she asked for the second time that day. "If anything I've told you today is bothering you, please just tell me. I'm sorry if it did, I never meant for that to happen. I just wanted to answer your questions as honestly as I could."
"Alice, stop worrying, I'm fine. Yeah, I've been thinking a lot about our conversation today, but not in a bad way. I'm just...pondering, I guess, would be the best way to describe it."
"Pondering?" She still looked concerned.
"Just processing it all. I'm still learning so much about you three. I'm not running in the opposite direction, though, so please relax." I reiterated the point by reaching over to give her a quick hug before leaning back to gauge her expression. She looked suitably pacified. "See you tomorrow?" I checked.
"Of course," she agreed and we parted ways with a smile.
As she drove away, I wondered just how long it would take for her to finally relax around me. Although her concern for my welfare was an honourable trait, I didn't want it to forever loom over our friendship. I just had to hope my reassurances would eventually be enough to convince her.
000
Twelve days later, I was awoken by a worrying occurrence. A gentle knock at my bedroom door was what roused me from my slumber and I stretched as Charlie came into the room carrying a small tray of food. In all my years, I could count the amount of times things like this had happened on a couple of fingers.
"Morning, kiddo," he greeted and I couldn't help but let a small smile stretch across my lips at the long discarded nickname.
After giving me chance to sit upright, the tray was placed on my lap and I sleepily gazed upon the full English breakfast adorning the plate. Beside the tray was a rectangular parcel wrapped in metallic green paper.
"Happy birthday," he said, seating himself on the end of the bed. "I know you don't like fuss, but a dad's allowed to treat his little girl every now and then, especially when he's missed the past couple of birthdays. You'll be happy to know I've kept the fuss to a minimum."
I smiled wider in return as I reached for the present. It was surprisingly heavy, which fuelled my curiosity. I tore a corner of the wrapping paper off to reveal a shiny black surface. Ripping off the rest of the paper, the gift turned out to be a new laptop and my jaw fell open. "A laptop?" I declared in surprise.
"Is it alright?" Charlie asked. "I don't know much about this sorta stuff, but the clerk assured me it was one of the best."
"It's amazing," I gasped. "But how much was it?"
"Didn't me or Renee teach you it's rude to ask?" he teased.
"But this must have cost a fortune!"
"It wasn't that much and I can afford it, so you're officially not allowed to worry. I just figured you might appreciate something a little better than that shitty PC downstairs. You remember those stories you used to write?"
God, I'd forgotten all about them! Every since early childhood, a major hobby of mine had been creative writing and I'd gone through reams of paper in my time writing all my stories down. Renee had often asked me to read them to her, but, as I got older, I got more secretive with the writing and had ceased altogether in most recent years. My dad's question brought the memories flooding back of happier times and I actually started to feel a little emotional. I managed to swallow it down before Charlie could notice it and the smile returned to my face.
"You know," I said. "I haven't done any for a while, but maybe I'll start again. Thanks, Dad, it's amazing."
"You're welcome," he replied and I grabbed him for a hug before he could leave, almost knocking the breakfast tray to the floor. Apparently, age did nothing to dilute my clumsiness.
Charlie left, allowing me to eat my breakfast in peace. As much as I wanted to get better acquainted with my birthday present, I was forced to wait until after my shift, so proceeded to get showered and dressed before Alice arrived to pick me up. She picked up on my cheerful mood immediately.
"What's made you so chipper this morning?" she asked, her typical breeziness actually almost matched by mine that day.
"Charlie got me a laptop," I explained as I fastened my seatbelt.
"Really? What's the occasion?"
"My birthday," I admitted.
Her hand froze on the ignition key as her head whipped to face me. "It's your birthday?" Her eyes were wide with dismay. Anyone would think I had admitted to running over a cat or something. "Why didn't you tell me?" She asked, looking truly hurt.
"I-I'm sorry, Alice," I apologised, confused at the sudden onslaught of guilt I felt. "I guess I forgot to mention it. It's not that big a deal, really."
"But I haven't got you anything," she whined. Genuine panic splayed across her delicate features and I was desperate to calm her nerves.
"There's no need, honestly," I said in an attempt to console her. I felt awful, but it had simply never occurred to me to tell her. I'd only known her a few months, even if it did feel a whole lot longer and, with everything that had happened, the subject of birthdays was understandably the last thing I had considered discussing with her. "It's just another day, nothing special."
Alice's eyes squinted as she stared ahead for a few moments. "Do your parents love you?"
What the Hell kind of question was that? "Of course they do!" I insisted, a little offended by the question.
"Then how did you end up such a negative, self-depreciative person?" Her head swivelled to face me and I saw the sparkle of humour in her eyes that her voice had lacked.
"Oh...well...I just don't see the need for fuss."
Alice let out a long sigh. "Oh, Isabella," she lamented with a shake of her head. "What are we going to do with you?"
During coffee that day, she wasn't as talkative as usual. By no means silent, there were several more periods of silence between her sentences than was the norm. I wondered if she really was that offended that I hadn't told her it was my birthday, but she showed no obvious signs of distress and we still had plenty to chat about, so I didn't question it. Our drive home was another quiet one and it wasn't until we reached my house that she finally spoke.
"Are you free Monday evening?" she asked.
I thought for a moment. "Um, I think so."
"Fancy coming over? We can watch some films and I could finally give you a proper tour of the place."
"Definitely, it sounds great," I agreed, her invitation alleviating any fears I had of her being unhappy with me.
"Good," she said with a wide smile. "Is six alright?"
"Sure," I confirmed. "I'm looking forward to it," I said with genuine excitement.
"Me too," she answered, her eyes crinkling with delight, although there was a hidden aspect to her expression I couldn't quite read.
Was it just me, or was she up to something?
000
""Bella, amaze us with your interior design genius," said no one ever!" I declared in complaint as Alice led me through the entrance hallway.
"Oh, have more faith in yourself," she scolded. "I'm cursed with living in the sole company of men, so am forced to source outside help with redecorating."
"I think it looks amazing as it is," I insisted. "Why mess with perfection?"
"Because you haven't lived here long enough to see the flaws hidden within that "perfection"," she said, making quote marks with her fingers as she uttered the last word. "And I'm only asking your opinion; it's not life or death, Bella. Besides, you may even learn a thing or two about colour coordination," she winked over her shoulder at me, before giving me a quick appraisal. "I've been seeing an alarming amount of green on you lately."
I stopped and held out my arms to defend my evening's choice of attire. "Hey, there's no green today."
"Hence why I allowed you into my car."
"Gee, thanks," I retorted and we chuckled in unison as we reached the wooden staircase.
I continued to follow as Alice began her descent and I realised this was the first time I'd entered the Cullen household without the sound of piano music permeating the air. Granted, this was only my third visit, but still, I missed the calming tinkling of the instrument's keys. I wondered if Carlisle and Jasper were here and a small tremor of apprehension ran up my spine when I thought of the conversation I'd had with her a few days ago. I knew it was a little silly to worry about her boyfriend as I'd been in his presence a few times now without incident, but I still had to fight to control the butterflies.
As we reached the middle of the staircase, I gazed down at the cosy lounge and what I saw sent alarm bells ringing. Carlisle and Jasper were both stood either side of the armchair nearest us, but that wasn't what worried me. What worried me were the helium balloons decorating each corner, the ribbon hanging from each wall and a Happy Birthday banner hanging above the fireplace.
"Alice," I murmured, my voice lowering to a threatening contralto.
"Yes?" she chirped innocently.
"What's going on?"
"Well, right now we are putting one foot in front of the other, walking down the stairs towards what I like to call the lounge."
"If I could throttle you, Alice Brandon, I would."
"Oh, lighten up, Bella! One little birthday party won't kill you."
"Alice!" I whined.
Before I could protest further, her cool hand encircled mine and I was pulled down the remaining stairs, whilst the temperature of my face started to rise steadily. Her steps didn't halt until I was brought before the two male vampires in the room and Carlisle was first to approach, an apologetic smile on his face.
"We tried to rein her in," he said with a chuckle.
"Really?" I asked sceptically, my eyes lifting to the banner behind him. It was proof of the depth of my embarrassment that the thing was able to compete with the doctor for my attention.
"You don't wanna know what this place would've looked like if we hadn't," came Jasper's smooth, southern drawl as he stood beside Alice, his arm going around her shoulders.
My eyes widened in fear and his lips parted into a smile to create one of the most beautiful expressions I have ever seen. Until that point, I hadn't thought any other man could compete with Carlisle's beauty, but I was proven wrong as I studied Jasper...almost. His head bowed to greet Alice with a kiss and the affection between them shone like a light. In that moment I forgot every fear I'd had about him.
Alice eventually tore her gaze from her impressive specimen of a boyfriend to throw a beaming grin my way. "So, happy birthday, Bella!" she cried, throwing her arms around me in a hug. I made a feeble attempt to resist her infectious charm, but gave up when the smile refused to avoid my face. I may have been mildly mortified by the surprise party, but it touched me deeply to witness this latest act of kindness from the woman I'd only known a few months. I began to feel like a bad friend as I had done nothing for her so far. I needed to wrack my brains for a way to make it up to her somehow.
"What would you like to drink?" Carlisle asked as Alice and I parted. "There's wine, tea, coffee..."
"Oh, Carlisle," interrupted the crafty pixie beside me. "They won't do. This calls for champagne! There's a bottle in the kitchen upstairs."
"Yes, ma'am," he smirked, before heading up the staircase.
"Champagne?" I raised an eyebrow at the diminutive vampire. "Alice, I swear to Go-"
"Ah-ah," she tutted, cutting me off with a finger to the lips. "We shan't have blasphemy in this house, thank you very much. Now, tonight is happening whether you like it or not, so suck it up and start enjoying yourself."
I scowled, but attempted to obey as Carlisle returned with a bottle, corkscrew and four elegant coupe glasses. I refused to look at the label of the drink, as I knew I'd only end up Googling it later to see the price-and, if their house was anything to go by, this trio didn't do cheap brands. He set about opening the champagne and I was recovered enough from the shock to note that this was the first time I'd seen him out of formal clothing. He still wore a shirt, but it was a more casual one in black, with dark jeans rather than suit trousers covering his lower half. I had to admit I liked this more relaxed style on him, but made sure I didn't follow that thought any further. I'd only just managed to stop making an idiot of myself in front of him-I didn't want to give myself any reason to regress.
The four glasses were filled and each was handed out.
"Can you guys drink champagne?" I asked. Somehow I was unable to spend more than five minutes in their presence without peppering them with queries.
"For you we can," replied Alice, lifting her glass. "To Bella."
All four glasses were clinked together, before we each took a large swig. Whatever brand the drink was, it was delicious and I had no trouble finishing my first helping.
"Well, someone's following orders," remarked Jasper, causing my second blush of the evening.
"Sorry," I mumbled, looking around for somewhere to put my empty glass, but Alice was already refilling it.
"Don't be," she insisted. "This is your night to enjoy yourself."
"This is so nice, but you didn't have to go to all this trouble," I said, before taking another sip of champagne.
She dismissed my comment with a wave of her hand. "It's no trouble at all, we're happy to do it."
I knew Alice was, but the fact that Carlisle and Jasper were here celebrating too was heart-warming to see. It made me wonder just what I had done to earn such wonderful friends and I swore that if I ever got to meet any of the people who had given Alice a hard time when they first settled here, I'd give them a good piece or two of my mind. Obviously, she was in no actual need of my poor excuse for protection, but I couldn't help the defensiveness I felt for her. I opened my mouth to speak, but she got there first.
"Don't thank us yet," she cautioned, her face lit with enthusiasm. "We've still got to do presents."
Presents? Oh God, I thought Carlisle said they'd tried to rein her in! She skittered away to the coffee table stood in front of the sofa and I realised there were two packages wrapped in silver paper lying on it. Putting the champagne bottle down, she picked both presents up and returned to me, thrusting the one in her left hand forward first. I knew words would be pointless at that point as her eyes begged me to open it, so, after handing her my glass, I tore off the paper to leave a long, navy blue container that looked suspiciously like a necklace box in my hands. I slowly opened it, intrigued and anxious in equal measure. Just how much had been spent on me?
Only one word could describe the object inside-exquisite. I carefully pulled the necklace out of the box, which Alice helpfully took from me so I could study my gift in greater detail. It really was stunning. A delicate silver chain dangled from my fingers, sparkling in the amber light of the room. From it hung an equally delicate and sparkling pendant and, upon closer inspection, I realised it was actually carved into the shape of an elegant swan. It was absolutely perfect-feminine without being overly girly, pretty without being ostentatious and small enough to be decorative, without screaming for attention. I loved it and, like Charlie's gift, it had emotion welling in my eyes. I looked up at Alice and bit my lip to keep the tears from falling as I reached out to hug her tightly. I didn't feel words were enough to describe how much I appreciated it, so actions had to suffice.
"I'm so glad you like it," Alice breathed into my ear as we embraced.
When we parted, Carlisle held out a hand, gesturing to the necklace. "May I?"" he asked.
I handed it to him and pulled my hair out of the way as he placed the fine piece of jewellery around my neck, before closing the clasp at the back. I looked down at the pendant resting just below the hollow of my throat and swore to never take it off. The next present was instantly held out to me and I was glad for the distraction as it gave me time to blink away the tears.
"This one's from Carlisle," Alice informed me as I pulled the wrapping off.
I froze in surprise and looked up. Carlisle got me a gift? Helping arrange a birthday party was one thing, but choosing a present? I forced myself to calm down. After all, who's to say Alice didn't pick it and just put his name on the tag? Beneath the neat wrapping, I was greeted with the back of a thick book. It looked old and I couldn't wait to flip it over to see the cover. I let out a gasp, before my hand flew to my mouth. I couldn't believe what I was seeing. There, in my hand, rested a first edition copy of my favourite book ever written: Wuthering Heights. For at least a minute, I did nothing but stand and stare at it, not quite sure whether to believe my eyes. It wasn't possible, surely it wasn't. I was even more lost for words than with the necklace.
"Bella," called Carlisle, obviously concerned by my prolonged silence. "Is it alright?"
I still couldn't speak and there was no holding back the tears now. I kept my hand to my mouth as I shook my head. I wasn't doing it in answer to his question as it was so much more than alright, but I wasn't sure I could accept such a gift. It was too much, I didn't deserve it and I knew there was nothing I could ever do to repay these people for their kindness. As the first tear ran down my cheek, Alice stepped forward, rubbing my arm.
"Bella, what's wrong?" she asked.
I sniffed and clutched the book to my chest, feeling silly, overwhelmed and unworthy. "I-I'm s-sorry," I stammered through the emotion. "I just...I can't believe...I don't..."
"Shh," she soothed, her cool hand rubbing my back now. "I take it those are happy tears?" I nodded and she smiled. "That's okay, then. I was planning to treat you to a makeover, but I'm glad I didn't bother now."
I let out a laugh and we hugged yet again. I think I'd hugged her more in the past few weeks than I had anyone else in the past twenty three years. "I'm sorry," I apologised again as I wiped away the tears with my sleeve. "I just can't believe how amazing you guys are. I can't thank you enough for all this. I mean, I don't deserve-"
"Blasphemy was strike one, Bella," warned Alice with a stern finger. "Self-depreciation is strike two. Strike three and I parade you down Port Angeles wearing that birthday banner."
I laughed again, holding my free hand up in surrender, which earned a chuckle from Carlisle and even Jasper.
"Well, after all that excitement," she commented. "I think it's time for your last surprise."
"Alice, I'm gonna have a- whoa!" My complaint was cut off by the sight of Alice speeding off up the stairs faster than a bullet. I span to face Carlisle. "What was that?"
"Sorry," he said, and I saw a flicker of genuine annoyance flash in his golden eyes. "I think she's getting a little over excited."
"No, it's okay," I protested. "I've just never seen anything move so fast that wasn't fired from a gun."
"That's our normal speed," he explained, eyes crinkling with mirth at my remark. "We work hard to ensure we keep to a much slower pace around people."
"Well, anytime you lot want to do my housework for me, feel free," I joked as Alice returned at a much more reserved pace, carrying a small round plate between her hands. On it was the most adorable birthday cake I had ever seen. It was only big enough for two people at most and that made sense to me as I would be the only one eating it. A large, solitary candle sat in the middle, surrounded by delicate lilac sugar paste flowers and leaves. It looked delicious and I felt my stomach voice its approval. I knew the three encircling me would have heard the inelegant sound too and I blushed yet again, mumbling an embarrassed apology. "I didn't get round to eating before I got here," I offered.
"Then at least it won't go to waste," Alice replied with a smile.
"I'm going to have to work so hard to make any of this up to you on your birthday," I said, before doubt struck me. "Wait, do you guys have birthdays?"
"Well," began Carlisle. "We would, but Jasper here is the only one of us who actually knows when his birthday is."
"Really?" I suddenly panicked, wondering if I had accidentally unearthed some terrible memories for any of them, but none looked to be in the midst of a horrific flashback.
"It's a rather common occurrence for older vampires," he elaborated. "Birth records in the past weren't what they are now. I can guess at the year of my birth, but have no exact proof and Alice has no memory of her human life."
My eyes shifted to her, full of sympathy, but she stopped me before I could offer any condolences.
"I got over it a long time ago," she declared brightly. "Besides, this is about you, not us."
"Well, wait a minute," I argued, moving over to the coffee table and placing my beloved book upon it, before returning to my previous position. "When was the last time any of you celebrated your birthdays?"
All three vampires suddenly went still as statues, except for Jasper, who had already been that way for most of the evening. I could tell they were lost in thought and it was actually a little comical to see.
"I'll be honest," Carlisle answered first after a minute or two of silence. "I haven't done so since my change."
"Me neither," concurred Alice. "Jasper?"
"I stopped long before the change." I swear I could listen to him talk for hours. "There was a lot going on back then."
I wanted to know more, but wasn't quite comfortable enough with him to openly pry, so let it be for the moment. "Well, in that case," I said, taking the cake from Alice. "I have decided you can share mine."
They exchanged glances, unsure expressions on their faces. "Share your birthday?" Alice checked.
"Yeah. I feel bad having all this when none of you have celebrated for decades."
"We've had a lot more than you, though," Carlisle reminded me.
"So? Doesn't make them any less important. I mean it; I want all of you to share it with me. You included, Jasper."
"Mine's already been," he stated.
"Then...consider it an un-birthday," I suggested.
Carlisle started to laugh. "Why not?" he shrugged. "Although we're not going to be able to share the cake with you."
"You can help blow out the candle, though," I offered.
"Oh, alright!" Alice agreed, grinning madly. "It'll be nice to have a birthday party I'll actually remember."
Jasper was eyeing us sceptically. I raised an eyebrow, nodding at the cake expectantly. His brow creased a little and his hands clasped behind his back somewhat defiantly.
"Oh no," I admonished. "You won't get away with it that easily. Consider it punishment for not controlling your girlfriend."
Alice let out a dramatic sigh and I poked my tongue out at her. Then she held out her hand to her partner and actually batted her eyelashes at him. "Don't be a grump, Jaz. Please?"
Jasper groaned and rolled his eyes, but complied with the beautiful sprite's demands. In the end all four of us were stood in a close circle, with the cake held out in the middle by me. The candle was already lit and some globules of wax had started to run down the sides. I looked at each of them in turn. "On the count of three," I instructed. "One...two...three..."
"Make a wish!" Alice chirruped, before we all extinguished the candle in unison.
I didn't make a wish, as all I wanted at the moment was right there with me: good food, good drink and wonderful company. Alice took out the candle and I picked up the fork that had been resting beside the cake on the plate. I skewered a small piece and popped it in my mouth. It tasted even better than it looked and I gave Alice a thumbs-up.
The rest of the evening passed by far too quickly for my taste. I only had one more glass of alcohol after my second as I didn't want to make a drunken spectacle of myself in front of the Cullens. I ended up curled on the armchair nearest the fireplace as Carlisle occupied the one opposite and Alice and Jasper snuggled together on the sofa. We shared chitchat as the movie played on the television before us. I embraced the cosiness of the room and the general feeling of wellbeing residing within in me as I absently fiddled with the pendant. It was remarkable how easily I could relax with the three vampires. There were no awkward silences and even I had no difficulty starting or joining in conversations. In truth, I was a little impatient to start reading my new book, but knew it would be rude to do so with company.
About halfway through the second film, Alice and Jasper had disappeared upstairs, leaving me alone with Carlisle. It wasn't long ago that I would have been a flustered mess at the prospect of my current situation, but I was far too contented to pay it much mind now. Out of the corner of my eye I saw him shift and stand, before moving over to the seat of the sofa closest to me. He rested his elbows on his knees as he sat forward and offered me a smile.
"Have you had a good evening?" he asked.
"I have," I replied, readjusting my position to face him better. "I may hate surprise parties, but this is one I'm glad I came to."
He let out a gentle laugh. The light of the room was the same shade as his eyes and it gave them an ethereal sort of glow as they studied me. Gazing into them and seeing the warmth they exuded, I started to think that perhaps the Quiletues had given them the wrong name. I knew why they called them "Cold Ones", but it didn't seem to fit. Their temperature was low, sure, but nothing else about them was cold. They were warm, kind and caring, tonight was ample evidence of that. Their hearts may not beat, but it didn't stop the Cullens offering them to anyone willing to accept. That made me wonder if Carlisle had anyone the way Alice had Jasper. It seemed a travesty that someone like him would be single, but maybe it was slim pickings amongst the small group of vampires following his way of life. I knew that if I was a vampire, I'd snap him up like a shot! I flushed crimson the moment I realised where my thoughts had taken me for the second time that evening and scrambled for a way to distract myself.
"I, um, I have to thank you again for the book, it's incredible," I said. "I can't believe you got something like that for me. I have to ask, though, did you have any idea that was my favourite book?"
"I have a confession to make," he admitted. "Jerry gave me an enormous amount of help with that, although it was done completely by accident. Just after you started working at Thunderbird and Whale, he and I were talking and he was praising the heavens that he'd finally met a youngster with a true appreciation for decent literature. He mentioned that it was a favourite of yours, so when Alice told me her plans for tonight, I knew exactly what to get you."
"I'll have to thank him, although I dread to think what that cost."
"Money isn't important, Bella. Whether it cost a dollar or two thousand, I still would have gotten it for you. I like to give people gifts I know they'll appreciate and use."
Hmm, that meant it was expensive. He may not think money's important, but, to people with very little, it's very important. I wished I could win the lottery right then and there, if only to have the means to get him something of equal value in return. He must have sensed my continued discomfort, as he leaned even further forward to speak again.
"Would it make you feel better if I told you I didn't actually buy it specifically for your birthday?"
I frowned, wondering what he meant.
"It's from my library," he elucidated.
I wasn't sure if that made me feel better or worse. It was a relief to know he hadn't spent a small fortune on me, but he'd handed over a personal possession instead. In some ways, that meant it was even more valuable to him than cash.
"Bella," he said my name with gentle warning. "If you do not stop worrying, I will give Alice free rein next time."
"Okay, okay," I finally surrendered in alarm. I barely coped with a restrained Alice, let alone an uninhibited one.
"Good," he said with a smile. "And I know you get on very well with Alice, but should she ever get a little over the top for you, just tell her, or let one of us know and we'll have a word."
"She means well and hasn't done anything bad so far. I'm just not used to being pushed into the limelight, that's all."
"She does mean well," he nodded with a smirk. "But I must admit my library has come in very handy for hiding from her during her more...manic moments."
I giggled, picturing her flitting at light speed around the house, driving Carlisle and Jasper mad. "How does Jasper cope?"
"Surprisingly well," he laughed. "He's the calm to her storm, I think. They come across as opposites, but fit together very well, actually. Each personality feeds what the other lacks."
I couldn't help the whimsical smile that crossed my face as I thought of the pair together. They were like a commercial for true love brought to life. I hoped, more than I had for anything in a long time, that their love lasted. If it didn't, I was ready to forever throw away any sliver of faith I'd had in romance.
Thoughts of romance were suddenly pushed aside when something Carlisle had just said sank in. "Hold on, you have a library? How big is this house?"
"It spans half the top floor and doubles as my study."
Okay, I was more than a little jealous. What I wouldn't give to have my own library to hide away in each day. For now, I'd just have to make do with the few books adorning my bedroom shelf.
"And you are welcome to visit it whenever you like," he offered.
"Really?"
"Of course. I'm more than happy to share it with a fellow bookworm."
I smiled as I received this latest act of kindness. Did they ever stop? I was also excited at the idea of being allowed to see the other parts of the house, as Alice had promised a tour before, yet not delivered so far. And this wasn't just any library, it was Carlisle's. A more tantalizing prospect I couldn't even begin to imagine.
"Thanks, Carlisle," I said. "You may regret the offer, though, when you're sick of the sight of me."
"I'll set up a visiting schedule," he teased.
000
All good things come to an end and my birthday party was no exception. I had almost fallen asleep in the chair when Alice finally declared she was taking me home. The other two walked us to the front door to say goodbye and I wished I was more like my mom so I could hug the pair of them for all they'd done. Shyness held me back, though, so I settled for a wave and a smile.
"Good night, Bella," Carlisle called as I walked to Alice's car, before pointing at the book I held against my chest. "Try to get some sleep tonight."
I held the tome up, a sheepish grin on my face. "No promises," I replied.
After throwing one last grin my way, he and Jasper headed back indoors as I strapped myself into the front passenger seat.
"Well," began Alice. "I think you enjoyed yourself."
I shrugged noncommittally, but had to twist my lips to keep the smile off them. I wasn't ready to admit her surprise had been a good one in case it led to more. I also wanted to see if I could tease her a little. When I looked in her direction, I saw her right eyebrow raised, an unimpressed expression on her face.
"A shrug?" she demanded. "You did nothing but smile, laugh and cry with happiness all night and you just shrug?"
It was getting harder and harder to keep a straight face.
"I may just have to take that necklace back," she threatened. I kept silent. "Or that book."
"No!" I cried as she lunged and swiped it out of my grasp. She opened the car window and extended her lithe arm to dangle the book outside. "Give it back!" I tried to reach for it, but she restrained me easily in my seat.
"Admit you enjoyed yourself," she ordered.
"Fine!" I snapped.
"Say it," she requested in a sing-song voice.
I let out an exasperated sigh and gave in. "Alright, I had a good time."
"I knew you would," she said all-knowingly as the book landed in my lap. I immediately snatched it up and wrapped both arms around it. "So possessive over a book," she muttered, smiling the rest of the way home.
It wanted to tell her it was so much more than just a book, but I doubted she'd care. Instead I eagerly awaited the moment I could snuggle into bed and let my eyes fall upon the words contained within its beautiful pages. Carlisle had instructed I get some sleep, but he knew damn well that I wouldn't. Besides, he'd given me the book, so if I suffered any fatigue induced accidents the next day, all blame would rest solely on his shoulders.
A/N: I hope you enjoyed and will see you all again soon :)