Chapter eight: My son.

The new dawn of day brought great prospects. It was now the tenth of september. My darling was now eighteen, and the ball was tonight. The weekend had finally began. I hadn't moved all night, in scarce that things would change; reality would set in and this would all be merely a vivid dream. That I was merely imagining her here. Renesmee slept peacefully, calmly and happily. Every now and then, she would mumble in her sleep. The way I had always loved. Soft things, gentle 'I love you's' and quiet names here and there.

To be in that situation again, was beyond a dream come true. And that was saying something, for I couldn't dream. I was unable too; of course. But the overall feeling of being complete with her in my arms again was... Beyond words. There had been a large part of me missing when I was without my little hybrid, and now it was back. The gaping hole within my chest, within my soul, was now back; and I couldn't express just how content I was. I didn't wish for her to wake, for then we would have to move from this position. With her pressed up against my chest; arm lazily around my waist and her features soft and clear. She was beyond perfection. But... There was a part of me that wished to wake her. That hoped I could see her eyes alive, awake and on me. I gave a small brush of my hand through her hair, which was all it took for her eyes to sleepily open.

"Hi." She breathed, sounding somewhat relieved that I was here. Perhaps her thoughts were running close to mine, and she was scared that this might all be a dream too?

"Hi." I smiled back, running my hand through her soft hair once more. "Sleep well?"

"Peacefully. Did I give you peace, and not toss and turn?"

"You are my peace." I whispered back; leaning close and pressing a kiss to her head.

She let out a satisfied sigh and sat up. Stretching.

"Happy birthday."

He stopped for a second, and then gazed around to me. Her eyes indicated that she was flicking through the dates in her head. Then her lips curved. "I'm eighteen..."

"You are indeed. Would you like your present?"

"You got me a present?"

"Two. For the seventeenth I had missed."

She gave out a giggle, while I kicked myself up off the bed and crossed the room to a drawer. Taking out a box; I moved closer to her. Parched myself onto the edge of the bed, and handed her the box. She tilted her head curiously; and took it happily.

"Thank you." Her fingers brushed the pearl white lid, before flicking it open and letting a beaming smile come across her features. "Alec... It's beautiful."

She let her fingers brush across the silver chain; and then across the little diamonds hanging from it; then to the larger one, shaped carefully into that of a diamond shape. Just above it; a pair of matching earrings. Two smaller diamonds, linked together hanging happily, and then a larger one just below.

Renesmee's eyes moved up to mine, lips pressed into a happy smile, and for a moment I thought she would do that thing girls do... Happy cry, or whatever it was called. Tears of joy, or something or other. She shuffled forward; and wrapped her arms around my neck; burying her head into my shoulder. She was whispering 'thank you' over and over, and other things that even I couldn't make out. Not even with my supernatural hearing.

Eventually, when she pulled away yet again; I brushed my hand across her cheek and smiled as lovingly as I could at her. "Would you like some breakfast?"

Renesmee nodded, tilting her head into my hand more.

"I'll go have something set up. You can shower, and get comfortable. Your bags are there." I nodded, towards the side of the bathroom door. Honestly, when they had been delivered; I was so close to ripping Santiago's head off. Could he have been anymore loud? Delivering food, and bags, while talking? When there was a girl sleeping soundly by my side? I had the food returned, for Renesmee was too lost in her dreams to be woken for food.

"Any requests on what you would like to eat?"

"Toast... Tea..." I could see where this was going.

"Pancakes?"

Her lips curved, revealing her sweet smile; teeth on view. "You remembered!"

"I did indeed. Orange juice with that?"

She nodded, and leant forward; pecking a kiss onto my lips.

"Hurry back..."

I chuckled and nodded; moving off the bed and to the door. I gave a small peek back into the room as I exited the door; catching her grinning and blowing me a kiss as I pulled it to a close. How had I become so lucky? What had I done to deserve such a divine creature? I couldn't help but smile to myself. Today would be the start of a good day. I'd make sure of it. With the last of the guests arriving today, and the celebration tonight; I'd make sure it was a day Renesmee would never forget. Walking down the stone corridors; faces were once again lining them. Some seeming refreshed, and well settled; others seemed to be distressed. I could only tell why. Even on the second floor, I could smell it. Clear as a rotting carcass. Wet dogs. It would take some getting used too.

"What's with the smell?" A face asked me as I passed.

"Some guests. All will be explained in due time." I answered; though I don't see why they really needed me to answer. For, someone who had been a witness when the trial for all the Cullen's life, when we believed Renesmee to be an immortal child, began to explain about Jacob and his pack. I didn't fault so much as to pay any real attention. My goal was set to move down the levels of the castle, and inform Natalia to bring breakfast up to Renesmee. Then, speak with Aro on the events that will take place tonight.

Turning the corner to step down the stairs; my body came to a halt as another was in my way. Dark brown hair, and then there was that bright, luminous purple fringe. Ah, the girl I had seen walking with Janes group. She was reasonably tall, around Renesmee's height. Her skin was pale, almost translucent white and smooth looking. Her dark lashes indicated that she had dark features in her mortality. Brown eyes, I could only imagine. Her lips were full, and blossoming pale. Almost... a light lavender pink.

I bowed my head, and went to take a step to the side to let her pass. Only, she did the exact same.

"Alright, you go left, I go right?" She finally said after we tried yet again.

"Sounds like a plan." I chuckled, seeing light of the situation. Wow. I was really in a good mood, wasn't I? Usually, I would have torn their head off! I took a step to the left, as did she. My eyebrows narrowed; and then it struck me. My left, was her right. I let out an exasperated chuckle, and shook my head somewhat.

"This is awkward, huh?" She laughed also, brushing a hand through her hair. "Hey, you're... Alec, right?"

I nodded, lifting my bright eyes to met her own. "Correct."

"Sweet... Meeting one of the famous twin's. I'm Delilah, by the way."

"Pleasure to meet you, Delilah. Shall we try this again?"

She nodded, and watched as I moved to the side to let her pass. She took a few steps and turned to face me as I made my way down.

"Hey, Alec?"

I paused, and looked over my shoulder.

"Will I see you around?"

"Of course. I do-"

"Reside here, after all." Delilah cut off my sentence, with exactly what I was going to say. I arched an eyebrow confusedly at her. Was she a mind reader? If so, she would have problems with Aro wishing to possess her.

"You said the same thing to my brother when he asked about Jane" she explained. Ah, she was one of the sisters of Scott. The 'fan.' "Which reminds me, you haven't seen him have you? I'm scared incase he's gone off stalking your sister."

Stalking Jane? Who in their right mind would dare try and annoy my sister? Well, other than someone on a death wish. I can only imagine that my eyebrows narrowed in confusion; for she spoke; answering my unspoken questions. "He's got this... Uh... Unhealthy obsession with Jane. Kinda like a crush, I suppose."

A crush on Jane? AHAHA! I had to stop myself from laughing aloud. Well, if he was indeed stalking my sister... We would soon know about it. Jane wasn't one to keep her irritation to herself; and I was sure his screams would be loud enough to hear from the other end of the castle. "I can't say I have. But I shall keep an eye out."

"And if he's stalking Jane..."

"I'll make sure no harm comes of him." I noted, gaining a smile in return and a wave. I turned, and continued down the staircase; listening idly to chit chat here and there. Some sharing rumors that human's were arriving today, so they planned on leaving the city to have a final feed before the blood bags arrived. Understandable, for some might not as much as control as others did. Never the less, I was sure Aro was more than confident that this event would go on without a scratch. And if he believed so, then I too did not have a worry in the world.

I passed Heidi, handing out some information. Where to find certain things within the city. Such as clothing, masks if they wished not to wear the ones provided. Well organised, I believed. Perhaps with this event; the immortal world would have a better sight towards the Volturi. Not see us as ruthless villains. All we did was keep the peace, and make sure both mortal and immortal worlds were safe. Even if the final outcome was death. Those who were executed were dying for the greater good of both worlds.

Demetri was leaning against the reception desk, chatting to Natalia. And from what I could see, the blush in her olive cheeks; provided that he must have been doing what he did best. Charming her. Stopping at the desk, their eyes shifted to me.

"Send breakfast up to Renesmee? She may be showering, so merely leave it on the table by the dresser. Do not disturb her." I warned. Natalia nodded, and pulled a pen out from behind her ear, and scribbled down on a page. "Anything specific, master Alec?"

"Pancakes, orange juice, tea and toast." I mentally checked the list, and once I was certain, I nodded. "Anything else?" Natalia asked, her eyes moving up to me.

I pursed my lips, and tilted my head in thought. All that she had asked for was there, but I suppose I could add on a few things to make her feel welcome. Wouldn't hurt, right?

"Bacon, eggs and... Sausage. Take a single rose in a vase, and a note wishing her a happy birthday."

She nodded; scribbling this down also. Without anything else, I passed without as much as a second glance to them, and slid through the open doors. Aro was standing; Marcus and Caius were nowhere to be seen. Beside Aro, was Felix; holding a large golden robe over his shoulder. The hall was decorated with golds, and reds and blacks. Robes dangling and hanging at the sides; candle stands outlined the dance floor, and tables were scattered around the edges; topped with centerpieces that were somewhat spooky, yet beautiful. I felt, as though I had just stepped back into the 16th century Renaissance once again.

"And the golden one to go over there, hanging loosely over that set of tables... Just above." Aro pointed out to Felix, his long thin finger pointing out where to specifically hang it. Felix nodded, and made his way over. Turning around, Aro beamed at me and held his arms out.

"What do we think?"

He was asking me my opinion? Well, looked like he too was in a good mood today.

"The hall looks impeccable, master." I bowed my head, while he clasped his hands together and took a few steps towards me.

"You came to speak with me?"

"Indeed. The celebration is not until tonight. What do you suggest the guests, and the guards do until then?"

He pursed his lips in what I believed a deliberation. Seemingly weighing up his options with how he wished us all to spend the day. Until he nodded, and gave me a rather insane smile.

"Her family is arriving today. As are her human's. If she is here for their arrival... Then they shan't settle in. Too busy with fussing over the divine girl." He began to pace, a finger stroking the smooth skin of his chin. "Mm, the rest of the guard are to continue as yesterday. You, however..." He turned abruptly, closing in on me. I felt my muscles tense; though I was unsure why.

"My dear boy, take her to explore Volterra. Shopping, perhaps? I understand girl enjoy shopping?"

"I shall leave immediately." I mused; keeping as still as the dead.

"No!" His hands found my face instantly; holding my gaze with his. If I wasn't frozen before, I was now. The milky red swarming within his eyes were that of devilish intent. Of course, I knew Aro always had an ulterior agenda when it came down to the Cullen's being here; but it was as if I was finally coming face to face with it. It was as if I could literally see a plan brewing within his eyes... As if I was face to face with the devil. And yet... The Devil was, and forever would be, my father.

His hard, uncomfortable grasp on my face lightened, until it was a mere cress of my marble skin. He let out a sigh, and patted my cheek gently before letting his hand fall. "No... If you leave now, by the time the family arrive she will be bored and wish to return to the castle. You must pace yourself. Show her around the castle first... The forbidden parts, if it pleases. But do not leave this castle until ten thirty at the earliest, and eleven thirty at the latest. Do you understand me, Alec?"

"Yes, master."

"Ah," he held up a finger; pressing it to my lips. "Father."

I couldn't help but blink at him a few seconds. He wanted to call him... Father again? But I hadn't done that in... Well, god knows how long. After being instructed to call him master; when we finally understood the purpose of the Volturi, and it's guard; Jane and I had only addressed him as master. Father was a... mere shadow. A memory of what we called him, though he had never stepped down from that role in our eyes.

"With the human's being here, I am to be addressed as what I am to you." He smiled, somewhat... Lovingly? "You and Jane are to call me father, and my brothers-" Marcus and Caius, -"Uncle. Are we clear, my son?"

"Crystal clear... Father."

"That's my boy. Now go, have fun." He patted my shoulder and dismissed me. Turning, somewhat confused of the conversation that had just taken place, I slowly made my way out of the throne room. With Aro behind me, calling 'No! Not there, you fool. Higher up!'

—xXx—

"Alec, where are we going?" Renesmee squealed behind me, her hand firmly locked in mine. Her soft giggles were all that were pushing me forward with this idea. I wasn't quite sure why I had come to this conclusion, and quite frankly... I was surprised we even left that bedroom. I had been sitting waiting on Renesmee getting out the shower; empty plate beside me. Seemed like the little hybrid had worked up an appetite over the past few days. Never the less, the moment she came out that bathroom... Hair clinging to her face, skin ripe and red from the hot water and still shimmering with a few droplets, with a mere white towel being the only cloth keeping me from her... I had great restraint; over the years - before knowing Renesmee - I had no interest in sex, nor any desire to participate in it after the escapade with Renata. I was good at holding back, and ignoring anything desirable; but by god... It took every inch of my being not to jump her.

She was confused, why I was ushering her to dress quickly and follow me. Constant questions were being asked, and still were. My little sweetheart was a nosy thing, wasn't she?

I kept a firm lock on her hand, pulling her up a winding staircase which which was out of bounds. She was laughing, and I was smiling.

"My legs are hurting Alec, we've been going up for years!"

"We're almost there," I kept reassuring, until we came to the large set of doors at the top. I paused, and turned to her. Letting my lips form into a light, coy smile. She frowned, clearly curious as to what lurked behind this door.

"What's in there?" She finally bit the bullet and asked.

"They may be a little cautious in the beginning, but it's all in good nature. They haven't had many visitors in their lifetime, especially ones not members of the Volturi."

Her eyebrows furrowed even more; the worry crease taking complete fold over her features.

"What do you mean by th-" I placed a hand over her mouth; hushing her into a silence. Slowly, I dropped my hand and retook hers. Opening to the door and pulling her inside. The large room that welcomed us was sleek, clean and welcoming. The walls were a clean white, with golden swirls mixed in with the plain clarity. Furniture of all the greatest brands sat in place. I could feel Renesmee's confusion growing, so I let her hand go. She looked at me, as if to be given permission to go on in. I nodded, and watched her reluctantly make her way further into the large room. Silently closing the door behind me, I stood back and waited.

"This place... It's beautiful." Renesmee whispered, running her hand over a chair frame, and her eyes dancing across the ornaments on the fireplace mantle. Things collected over the years; some had meaning to me. Others didn't. But they loved them anyway, merely because they were gifts.

"Thank you."

Renesmee half jumped out of her skin the moment the foreign voice spoke. It was soft, and caring, and mother-like. Warm and welcoming, but it scared the hell out of her. I felt the sudden increase in her heart; and if that hadn't been the key point in her being scared, it would have been the shriek and the quick run to my side to hide. She was gripping onto my arm, so hard that I could feel her nails beginning to dig into my skin through the black cloak. The woman emerged from the shadows. A small hallway to the left of the room, leading to the bedchambers. This was the main room, where they spent most their time. Where I had spent most of my newborn years.

The dark haired female walked from the darkness, giving light to her features and clothing. A classic old styled dress, one which I could only imagine Renesmee describing as 'something in a old time movie.' It was a vibrant shade of lapis lazuli blue. Free flowing at the bottom, and tight around the waist and bust. Her hair was in loose curls and pinned back. Rich red eyes connected with mine, and then to Renesmee in the same warmth they did with me.

"Wh-Wha-" Renesmee tried to speak, though I could feel the fear in her voice.

"No need to be afraid child," the female assured, placing her hands in front of her. "We aren't going to harm you."

"We?" Renesmee said. Her grip growing tighter on my arm.

As she spoke this, another woman came from the hallway. Long, fair hair draped her face, creating a frame of some sorts. Her dress was white, the same style as the others, though the only color found on her dress was the waistband which was a bright red; holding her tiny waist in more. She joined the darker haired one, copying her pose and flanking her with a smile to Renesmee.

"It's been a while since we saw you, Alec." The blonde greeted. I bowed my head.

"Forgive me. Aro does like to keep me busy."

"Mm, such a workaholic, my husband." The brunnette chuckled. I heard, and I presume so did they, Renesmee choke on air.

"Hus-husband?"

The sound in her voice seemed to be like it was all coming into place for her.

I smirked, and turned my eyes to my hybrid. My free hand taking her free one.

"Renesmee, this is Athenodora and Sulpicia... Aro and Caius' wives."

She looked at my masters wives, then to me, and then finally back. Her mouth was open, somewhat in a small 'o' and her eyes lost within thought. Probably swirling with what to say, do or even think. Understandable, considering no one had ever had the chance to set eyes on these women before. Well, not after Didyme. It was perfectly reasonable as to why Aro and Caius would wish to protect the beings they loved. Sure, locking them up was a little drastic; but if it came down to the life of Renesmee... I think I may do the same. Sure, she may put up one hell of a fight, but I'd try to. Sulpicia took a step forward, her stance still high and goddess like.

"I remember this one. The child with the remarkable gift," she gazed, lifting her hand and setting it to brush Renesmee's cheek. She clenched her grip on my arm and flinched away. Sulpicia didn't seem at all phased. She merely kept her hand still, and held Renesmee's eye contact.

"May I?"

Unsure of how to reject her, Renesmee slowly nodded her head. Sulpicia moved closer, and allowed her hand to brush Renesmee's skin. The sudden close of Sulpicia's eyes provided me that Renesmee was showing her something. I just hoped it was something good. Hell, I prayed. Anything bad would sure as hell phase these women, despite how strong willed they were.

Sulpicia's eyes suddenly opened, and she bestowed Renesmee's the largest smile I had ever seen on her lips once. And that was a long, long, long time ago. When Jane and I woke up under her and Athenodora's wing for comforting and practically to be their children. The velvet red eyes that danced over Renesmee landed onto me, and a soft breath was let out.

"You did all that for her?"

What did I do? My eyebrow arched in question, while Sulpicia let out a soft, melody like laugh. Her hand moved to rest on my face, and caress my cheek. What was it with the face touching these days?!

"You have turned into a great man, Aleczander." She smiled, leaning forward and pressing her pale pink lips to my forehead. I could do nothing more but stare at her in complete confusion, yet pride within myself. Whatever I had done, whatever Renesmee had shown her, had obviously done great justice. I must ask her later on what she showed my 'mother' so to speak.

"Now, as much as we adore your visits Alec, there must be a reason for it. What do you need?"

I cleared my throat, and stood upright with Renesmee by my side. How could I put this lightly, and in words Renesmee may understand? Then again, she had grown used to the way I spoke now; so surely she must understand by now? And if not... Then I suppose she would find out.

"Aro has given me orders to keep miss Cullen occupied until eleven thirty. Then I am to show her around Volterra for an hour or two, and return to the castle for the celebration."

The women nodded their heads, the fair-haired even tilted hers afterwards.

"And what does that have to do with us, Alec?" Athenodora asked, eyebrow creasing.

"My time in Forks, Renesmee had shown great interest in the waltz you taught me oh-so-long ago. I myself even tried to teach her, though with her here now; I see no harm in letting her hear from the true masters of the dance."

I watched as their lips grew almost instantaneously. Delight spreading over their features with the mere prospect of them now having a student once again. It could only be expected, I had suffered for a full week with this dance. No sleep, no rest, not until it was perfected. And although it was tiresome, and irritating for me; these women thrived off having me there. Moulding me into some 'gentleman' of the dance. Jane had learnt also, but she showed no real interest in it. I, on the other hand, tried to seem enlightened our mothers were teaching us something new.

At least now they had someone who actually held true interest in the dance, and wanted to learn.

"Well... I don't see the harm in that do you, Athenodora?"

"None at all."

Sulpicia grinned, and held her arms out for Renesmee to go to her. Her doe like eyes moved to me, in question if she should. I merely nodded, and gave her a small nudge. Carefully, she moved forward; where Sulpicia flanked her one side, and Athenodora the other. Arms around her back and leading her to the open area where I had suffered for the week. Automatically, I moved to sit at the side on a chair. Leaning back, and watching the scene unfold before me.

Renesmee shedded her blue jacket; to which Athenodora scurried to hand it up across the room. Sulpicia was talking through the first basic steps, and asking what I had taught her. Every now and then I would receive a proud glance over to me from one of the women. Well, all I could say was that they burnt that dance into my head so that I literally could not forget it.

"Hold onto her waist tighter, Alec. Pull her closer." Athenodora ordered, sitting across the room in a golden chair. Her black dress spreading out across the floor like a blanket of darkness. Her long blonde hair was free today, flowing over her shoulders like a cascading waterfall.

I sighed, doing as I was instructed. My arm slinked around the small waist, pulling her closer to my own frame. Jane mumbled in annoyance, but said nothing more. Her hand was firmly clasped into mine as we swirled around the room; to which all the furniture had been pushed to the side. Sulpicia was walking around us; watching as we swirled, twirled and waltz from one end of the room to the other. Her dark, blood red colored dress brushing against the floor with every step she took.

"I do not see why we must endure such lessons. Demetri and Felix did not undergo this." Jane complained, her eyes like daggers in mine. That was a point, actually. Those two were always off on patrols of the city, or doing deeds within the castle. They didn't have to endure this. But this attempt was futile. Jane had already complained about this to them, and when they ignored her calls to be let loose, she went to Aro; who merely stroked her head, kissed her cheek and told her to enjoy it. That he wanted to show us off at the next celebration in a weeks time, with us opening the dancing at the event. Boasting at the fact we were now well educated, sophisticated young children he was proud to call his. It was safe to say I wasn't looking forward to that event. For I wasn't to dance with my sister. Oh no, I was to dance with one of the other guards, and Jane was to dance with Demetri.

"They already know the dance, my child." Sulpicia answered. "And they are not the prize of your fathers eye, are they? Stop your complaining, and do it over."

Athenodora nodded towards the male in the corner, playing upon the violin. He began to play from the beginning. Kill me.

"You're taking lead again, Jane." Athenodora commented, causing a groan from Jane. "Alec, hold your arm up higher. Chin up, also. Do not look at your feet."

I quickly snapped both things up, not wanting to undergo a lecture once again. That was until..

"You stood on my foot!" Jane hissed, pulling away and glaring at me.

"Forgive me." I muttered, trying to hide the amusement in my voice.

"I cannot do this!" She declared, brushing down her blue dress and turning to Sulpicia. Sulpicia sighed, and glanced to the male to stop playing. The room quickly fell silent.

"My child, you understand why Aro is doing this, no?"

"Of course, bu-"

"Then you should give it your all. You wish to please him, do you not?"

"More than anything." Jane quickly answered, her defence slowly crumbling away. Sulpicia knew how to get to her, and that was the key when it came down to getting Jane to doing things.

"Then you must relax. You are tense, and in control. You mustn't forget it is the man's place to lead in this waltz. And Alec, you must learn to take the lead. You must be firm, and strong; and manly."

"I am a man." I frowned, my jaw clenching. She moved forward and placed both hands onto my shoulders. Her eyes looking into mine.

"I know that, my son." She breathed. "But you must show the others that. The others coming to this celebration of our reign only know of you and Jane by name. Two children; you must prove to them you are more than that. It is what Aro wishes."

"By dancing?"

"For men dance is a presentation of dominance. Of coordination, and of skill. For women, it is a chance to show off agility and beauty with movement. Do you believe that people merely know how to do this dance by birth?"

I shook my head. If that was the case, I sure as hell wished I was born with the ability to dance as well as the people I had seen.

"Men have to be taught, and lucky for you... You, and Jane have Athenodora and I. We want you both to succeed in this, and be the best. Better than men and women who have been doing this for years. Do you think you are up for the challenge?"

I glanced to Jane, and then to the floor. "But it is hard."

"Everything is hard, my boy. You will learn that everything comes with a challenge and will be difficult. Family, love, life... Nothing is easy."

"... I do not need love." I said quickly, eyes rushing to meet hers. "I have my family."

"And with that family comes love, Alec." Sulpicia quickly countered; her hands moving to hold my face. "Even as vampires, we still love. Be it not be in a romantic way, but in an unconditional family way of course. We all need love, and to be loved. You cannot survive alone."

That was true. I depended on the Volturi now. Even before, I had always needed Jane. I loved her, and she loved me. And now, I had a large family; whom I had grown to adore. Each and every single one of them. Especially Aro, Caius, Marcus and the two women teaching us this awful dance of frolicking around. If Aro permitted us to learn this, then I would learn. I would not rest until I knew how. From the look on Jane's face, it was the same for her. Even though she despised the thought of it.

"That's my boy. Now, from the beginning."

She stepped back, as Jane stepped forward and held out her hand. I cleared my throat and took hers.

"As I said, take lead. Alec... Alec... Aleczander!"

I blinked a few times, giving a quick shake of my head and looking up to the female who called my name. Athenodora was looking at me with a bemused frown upon her face. Had she been calling on me for a while now? Crap. I needed to stop getting lost within my thoughts, otherwise I could get in trouble. Especially here, in this room... With them. If there was anything Sulpicia and Athenodora hated more, it was ignorance. I sighed, and bowed my head. "Forgive me, I was lost within thought."

"I could see that. Did you hear what Sulpicia said?"

"I cannot say I did."

"Insolent boy." She sighed, and looked to Sulpicia for her to repeat.

I kept my gaze down, fighting off the smile of being scorned once again on the subject of dancing.

"It is inadequate for I to dance with her when I am to spectate." She implied. "Come here."

Oh, joy.

Standing up, I brushed down my cloak and moved forward; only to be stopped by that look. She glanced me up and down again, and shook her head. Really? Sighing, I pulled the cloak off; leaving me in my black shirt and jeans. Folding it over the armrest, I then made my way to Sulpicia and Renesmee. Athenodora had already taken her seat next to the old musical device. Aro had already offered to introduce them to the fashionable 'C.D' players of today, but they refused. They enjoyed live, or the 'old instruments' as they say.

"Take her waist." Sulpicia nodded.

Gladly, I thought idly while slinking my arm around Renesmee's waist. I felt her heart quicken almost instantaneously.

"And her hand."

Renesmee placed her palm into mine, and gave a gentle squeeze.

"It came to my attention you already taught her the introduction correctly, and so we will begin the true steps. None of the modern day twirling you taught her."

I saw Renesmee's eyes flash with fake fear, and I couldn't help but chuckle. Leaning forward, I gently pressed a subtle kiss onto her nose which resulted in a blush. God, I loved it when her cheeks did that...

"Ah, ah. None of that," Sulpicia smirked, scoldfully tapping my shoulder in a warning.

"Athenodora." Sulpicia gave her a nod; the que for the music to start. As it did, we began off. The contact of Renesmee's skin instantly began to shoot images into my head. I had to stop myself from letting my eyes close to view them with my utmost full attention, but I could still see them, and this life.

"I thought we already began."

"Oh no. That was just the introduction. Evaluation of the partner. Taking in their weaknesses, etc."

She laughed. "Do I have any?"

Renesmee's voice faltered in just the slightest for whatever reason. "No. You are a natural."

"And you are a flirt," she smirked.

I shrugged. "Another trait men had to have in the Renaissance era. We had to be charming,"

"I see, but... Alec, I have news for you. This isn't the Renaissance era anymore."

"I know, but a little bit of charm doesn't hurt anyone. Now, stop talking. We aren't finished yet."

She scoffed, rolling her eyes yet again. "Sorry."

Beside that, Renesmee was muttering under her breath. 'one, two, three.'

Well, it showed she remembered. I wonder if she remembered the other thing which was said for this celebration? I may have to bring that up, and change my side of the bargain. Seeing as, she had already been to Juliet's wall. I was sure we could come to some other arrangement. Renesmee danced in silence for a good while; and to my surprise, Athenodora and Sulpicia were in silence also. Their lips had been in soft smiles for a good half hour. Sulpicia had even moved to take a seat beside Athenodora to watch. All that filled the room was the constant loop of music from the phonograph. Every time the song came close to an end, Athenodora would lift the needle and begin it from the start. I began to get the feeling they were just in a trance with watching the two of us twirl in circles. Not that I minded; Renesmee being in my arms in a dance of love was one of the many things I could happily spend eternity with her in.

Eventually, the whole room came to a silence. The music stopped, which caused Renesmee and I to come to a freeze; merely gazing at one another. Her eyes were on mine, and her lips parted open. Unwillingly, I looked away from her and turned my attention to the women sitting watching us.

"It's eleven thirty." Athenodora informed, her tone light.

"You two danced marvelously."

I couldn't help but give a smile, and let my arm tighten around Renesmee's waist.

"Come visit us soon, Aleczander?"

I bowed my head, and muttered;"Of course."

"You may leave now."

Hesitantly, I took hold of Renesmee's hand and pulled her along to the door. Opening it, I allowed Renesmee to step out first, only to be stopped just as I went to follow after.

Sulpicia was by my side in that instant; gazing down at me with bright red eyes. For the oddest of reasons, I could imagine tears in her eyes. Perhaps it was just the way she was looking at me. The pure emotion on her face, and the admiration radiating from her eyes. Silently, she raised her hand to my cheek yet again and pulled me closer for her lips to press to my forehead. She held them there for a few seconds.

"I am proud of you." She whispered into my ear, her breath brushing over my brown locks. "I can only hope Jane finds the same redemption you have."

She pulled away and looked down at me once more, while I gazed up at her in confusion, yet in awe. He smiled brightly, brushed her knuckles down my cheek once more and nodded for me to leave. "Siete finalmente l'uomo che ho sempre desiderato di essere, mio caro figlio piccolo."

I couldn't help but blink. Did those words really leave her lips? Was I just imagining this? Without a word, I moved through the door and listened to her close it behind me. At the bottom of the steps, Renesmee stood waiting; chewing on her nails like a nervous lost schoolgirl. Finally meeting her side, I took her hand and began to lead her back the way we came.

"They really care about you and Jane, don't they?"

Well, we were the closest things they ever came close to having as children. We were basically theirs. I nodded, giving her a side smile.

"I hope they liked me."

"They did." I answered quickly.

Renesmee looked at me quickly, a frown brewing.

"How do you know?"

"I just know, Reny."

She smiled, and squeezed my hand. "So, where too now?"

"The city. The sun is being surrounded by overcast until three, that's when it will clear."

"Mm, great! I've always heard Italian shops are the best."

"They'll be better now you've shopped there."

Renesmee rolled her fine brown eyes at me, and nudged my side. Quickly, I wrapped an arm around her; cradling her into my side as we walked through the narrow corridors.

"It was nice learning from them. They're better teachers than you." Renesmee quickly said, nuzzling her head into me. I chuckled.

"Of course they were. They are older."

"Older than you? Christ."

"Watch it." I smirked, shaking my head at her.

"Sorry... Grandpa."

I couldnt help but let out another laugh. Pulling her in tighter to me, I leant my cheek against her head.

"That's grandfather to you, Cullen."

A/N:

Hello again! How are we all? Getting quicker at updates now. I'm gonna start writing the next chapter instantly, for I too am a little interest in seeing where this is going. Originally, I didn't really plan on Renesmee meeting these two so early on, but at the ball. Kinda just went with the flow on this one. What did we all think about Alec's relationship with Sulpicia and Athenodora? Motherly/Sonly? Hope so.

So competition time. Whoever gives the 860th review can tell me either via PM or review a scene they would like to happen, and I'll sure as hell try to get it in there. Don't go killing each other over this opportunity. There may be a chance for more in the near future.

Good luck.

I love you all.

-C.H