The Learning Curve: Chapter 108

Hanover, New Hampshire

When I went down to meet Edward and his mother for breakfast at the prearranged time, only Esme is there. I clenched my left hand closed reflexively, nervous about the ring on my finger and facing Esme without Edward's buffering presence. It was our last day in Hanover; we were due to leave for the airport right after eating. At least I would be on my way home after this conversation.

"Good morning," I said nervously, taking the seat across from her. Her eyes flashed to the ring expectantly, showing no surprise. Edward had prepared her for this, I supposed. I wondered if he'd orchestrated this chance for us to speak alone.

"Good morning, Bella," Esme said with her usual smile. "I went ahead and ordered an omelet for you. I hope that's okay."

"That's perfect," I said, not without strain.

Esme sat back and let out a breath. "We may as well address the elephant in the room. You've decided to marry my son."

"Yes," I gulped.

"You don't have to be afraid," she chuckled. "If I truly believed it wouldn't work out, I wouldn't have given him the ring. It belonged to my mother, you know."

I glanced down at the ring, amazed that she could possibly be fine with it resting on my finger. "You're really okay with this?"

"I'm worried," Esme admitted. "I remember how hard it was for Carlisle and me. But I also know that you're good for my son. You make him plan more and act less rashly. You temper his impulsiveness, to an extent. Obviously not fully, but enough to keep him from going too far. I also know he sincerely loves you and that you make him the happiest I've ever seen him."

I was trying very hard not to cry. "I want to be good for him. He's…he's totally changed my life."

Esme nodded gently. "Just let me know when to start planning a wedding. I'll never have a daughter, you know, so I fully intend to adopt you. I'm butting in on your wedding whether you like it or not."

I laughed. "I'd like that, Esme, really."

Edward chose that moment to appear, rather as though he'd been watching and waiting for the right moment. "Good morning," he greeted, dropping into the chair between us. "What's for breakfast?"

"I ordered you toast," Esme said, straight-faced.

Edward's smile dropped. "Toast?"

The waiter was on his way, though, and Esme merely smirked when the waiter set down a plate of French toast before Edward. He shot her a look before digging in.

I was going to have such an awesome mother-in-law.

A/N: I posted as soon as FFN would let me. See you tomorrow!