Chapter 5
BPOV
It's nice to meet you, my name is Bianca Romano! I am a 25-year-old young lady with big dreams for development. I grew up near Naples in a family of restaurant owners. My life has been spent developing a small local business with my parents, which fell victim to the mafia groups around the city. My poor father couldn't afford what was necessary to keep our small restaurant working. That's how my father , Vincenzo, died of sorrow shortly after, followed by my mother Beatrice. Since there was nothing left to hold me there, I set out on my own path as a free spirit, meeting and falling in love with Emmanuele and planning to start anew.
This mantra echoed in my mind on the final day. Armed with the knowledge of my own history and Enzo's image, along with other intricacies committed to memory, I believe it's time to embark on my new endeavors. Tomorrow marks my meeting with Edward, where we'll delve into the essential details and chart out additional plans if necessary. It's a crucial step in this journey of reinvention, a moment to shape the path ahead and embrace the challenges and opportunities that await.
Yet today is marked by a series of tasks—first, a visit to the hairdresser, a ritual of self-care that signals a new chapter. Then, a venture into the world of fashion to procure attire that aligns with my evolving identity. Finally, a conversation long overdue with Carlisle and Esme awaits, a discussion to forewarn them of my imminent absence from the city. It's a straightforward message, yet every time I initiate such conversations, a subtle sense of finality lingers. It can be my last call to them, who knows?
As I pushed aside these contemplations, I turned my attention to the wardrobe. Its contents, an array of possibilities neatly hung and folded, presented choices that mirrored the transformation within. Each garment held the potential to become a statement, a reflection of the liberated spirit such as Bianca Romano that I aimed to embody.
As I delve into the details of my October wardrobe for Palermo, I find myself considering not only the practical aspects of comfort but also the aesthetic that I want to embody. Palermo's warmth in October provides an opportunity to showcase a blend of casual elegance and playful charm.
In my suitcase, I'll carefully fold short-sleeved blouses in hues that resonate with the city's vibrant atmosphere and my new character. Alongside, I'll pack three pairs of versatile long pants, perfect for everything – just walking, running, climbing – everything you can think. Two pairs of shorts and some athletic wear will find their place in my luggage too, ensuring I'm ready for spontaneous adventures of any sort that come my way.
Yet, a wardrobe is not just about functionality, it's a statement of personal style. A sleek leather jacket, the epitome of cool and edgy, is on my must-buy list. It promises to add a touch of sophistication to my look while offering protection against any unexpected cool breezes.
Dresses, too, are a crucial element. I plan to select a few that capture the essence of playful spontaneity which I have to say with my new amploa.
After carefully selecting the garments, I deemed fitting for the upcoming days, I arranged them thoughtfully on my bed, creating a visual roadmap for the outfits to come. It was a small yet satisfying act of preparation, a prelude to the adventure waiting for me.
A glance at the clock alerted me to the fact that my appointment with the hairdresser was a mere 45 minutes away. Realizing time was of the essence, I retraced my steps to the wardrobe for a quick change. The journey to Italy demanded not only a change of scenery but a metamorphosis in my appearance. Hence, Liam's decision to trim and lighten my hair, a choice that carried the promise of a quick change, a symbolic shedding of the old to make room for the new – what a way to say it.
Emerging from my apartment, clad in the chosen ensemble, I was met with a surge of anticipation. The crisp air hinted at the changing seasons, mirroring the transformative phase I was entering. As I ventured out, ready to embrace the unknown, my phone chimed with an incoming message, a timely interruption that added an extra layer of intrigue to the unfolding narrative of my day.
Hello, Bella! How do you plan to meet tomorrow, and where would be convenient for you? - Edward.
Understanding the need for solitude, my options weren't plentiful—either at home or at their apartment. Perhaps a small part of me secretly wished to have even a fleeting memory of Edward in my cold abode, breaching my personal rule of not mixing work with my private life. Boldly, I replied:
Hi, Edward! If you'd like, we can meet around 10 am at my place? - Bella.
Once written, there was no taking back my words. Slightly furrowing my brows, I stowed my phone back into my bag and made my way to my car. Now, there was no one else to blame but myself, even as I argued with myself, a clear sign of my inner uncertainty.
Lost in these thoughts, I arrived at the salon five minutes earlier than scheduled. Whenever I needed a change in my appearance, I entrusted Laura, who already knew my preferences well. Stepping into the salon with a clear idea of what I wanted to achieve with my hair, an hour later, the result was apparent. Striving for a sun-kissed effect, my hair now boasted several shades lighter with blonde highlights, seamlessly blending according to the latest trends— at least that's what Laura said about the colors skillfully woven into my hair. With a smile and a sense of satisfaction, I left the salon, heading towards the less pleasant part of today's agenda—shopping.
While growing up with Alice, she developed a passion for fashion and shopping, a realm I tended to avoid. I had never felt drawn to them, but I also didn't resist when someone tried to change something about my style—if I couldn't, I wouldn't stand in the way of others. Fashion and I had a distant relationship; however, I never resisted when someone attempted to nudge my style boundaries. If change was inevitable, I embraced it, understanding that personal growth or maybe going undercover often came hand in hand with a shift in appearance.
The anticipation of Edward's response lingered in the back of my mind as I navigated through the streets towards the salon. The decision to host our meeting at my place felt like a deviation from the norm, a subtle breach of the boundaries I had carefully set between my personal and professional life. Yet, somewhere within, a tiny part of me craved the prospect of him stepping into my private sanctuary, curious to witness how the dynamics would shift within those familiar walls.
Arriving at the salon with a firm vision for my hair transformation, I was greeted by Laura, a trusted confidante in the realm of style at this place. As she worked her magic, the mirror reflected a new version of myself—a manifestation of change, both symbolic and tangible. The sun-kissed hues seamlessly blended, creating a lively and dynamic effect, aligning with the latest trends. Laura's assurance that the colors complemented my overall look left me with a smile of contentment.
As I approached the boutiques and storefronts, the memories of countless shopping excursions with Alice flooded my mind. She had a knack for spotting trends and transforming shopping into a joyful experience. My own approach was more pragmatic—I sought comfort and practicality over the allure of the latest fashion. Nevertheless, today was different. Today, I embraced the opportunity to curate a wardrobe that reflected not just comfort, but a new identity—an identity shaped by the promise of revenge. To minimize the inconvenience of this task, I opted for a sensible approach—to head somewhere I could find everything I needed in one place. The logical destination was the nearby mall.
Two hours later, a few hundred dollars lighter, with minimal energy left for life, and lugging around six bags of purchases—this is likely how someone would describe me from the outside if they were observing. The necessary evil is over, I whispered softly in to myself, attempting to savor this brief but satisfying sense of accomplishment, my smile growing.
With a detour into the optician's realm, I made an impromptu decision to purchase green-colored contact lenses. Subconsciously, perhaps, I associated them with someone—someone I wasn't ready to admit held a place in my thoughts. Yet, providing a more logical justification, I convinced myself that the green lenses would complement my hair better than the blue ones.
As I settled into the car, extracting my phone from the depths of my bag, I eagerly scanned Edward's message that beckoned for my immediate response. Without wasting a moment, I swiftly input my address and dispatched the reply back to him. In this hurried exchange, an additional task stealthily infiltrated today's agenda—an impromptu quick cleaning session at home. The thought of hosting guests in a disheveled environment was a scenario I wished to preclude.
Upon reentering the apartment, I orchestrated the movement of all the shopping bags into the bedroom, placing them strategically in close proximity to the meticulously arranged clothing I had earlier curated. The remaining task on my checklist was the meticulous preparation of firearms, the assortment of ammunition earmarked for the journey, and the ever-present knife—a steadfast companion since my initiation into the realm of espionage. These items, typically residing within the secure confines of a safe tucked away in one of my closets, were discreetly concealed from the casual observer.
Transitioning into the more feminine aspects of my persona acted as a subtle reminder to pack not only the essentials but also a selection of shoes, bath and makeup products, perfume, and various other items deemed indispensable for the journey. The pervasive ambiguity surrounding our imminent departure compelled me to grapple with the challenge of pinpointing precisely what would be essential in the unfamiliar terrain. The information provided by the bureau resembled a puzzle, with scattered pieces demanding careful assembly. Acknowledging that Edward and I couldn't merely stake out only the harbor to wait for Enzo, the probable necessity of immersing ourselves in the local scene, seeking contacts in the establishments frequented by him, loomed on the horizon.
With a sigh, I acknowledged that I had been postponing the conversation with my parents all day, and it was time to address it. In an attempt to gather my thoughts and calm the storm of emotions quickly brewing within me, I stepped out onto the terrace. Staring into the surrounding landscape, regardless of the circumstances, always had a calming effect on me. I allowed myself an additional five minutes before dialing Carlisle's number. On the third ring, he answered.
"Hello, dear daughter, what can I do for you on this beautiful day?" he asked in an unexpectedly playful tone, prompting a little smile from me.
"Hello, Dad! I'm calling to check how are you and share something with you." I said, perhaps starting the conversation in a way that wasn't necessary, as there was no response from the other end for a few seconds.
"Are you leaving? Or is it just me thinking that way, and you have something else to tell me?" Carlisle inquired.
"Yes, I'm leaving in a few days, and I still don't know how long I'll be gone." I said, taking a deep breath. I never could say more than that; I could never promise them that I would return and that we'd see each other again.
"Alright, I understand. Bella, promise me, though, that you'll be careful and do everything necessary to come back to us alive and well." Carlisle said in a soft voice, likely trying to conceal the concern I knew he felt every time I made such a call.
"Of course, Dad. When I return, I'll call you or come straight to you in Forks. Please, tell Esme and Alice that I love them very much and send them my hugs." I whispered, attempting to blink away the traitor tears welling up in my eyes. Even though Carlisle wasn't my biological father, in moments like these, I couldn't simply call him by his name.
"I'll let them know right away, as soon as I get back from work. Sweetheart, know that we love you very much, and we'll be waiting for you here." was the last thing I heard, as I couldn't bear to listen anymore without breaking into tears and quickly ended the call. Considering the profession, I worked in, every such call turned me back into a vulnerable child seeking the love and comfort of her parents. This was the only moment that always troubled me. In any other situation, you could see Agent Swan, sitting confidently, or at least trying not to let the situation around her affect her openly.
Leaving the phone on the small table on the terrace, I leaned my elbows on the railing and rested my head on my folded hands, allowing myself time to calm down. I needed this hell, built by the Volturi, to end, so that I could close a huge chapter of my life filled with pain and unpleasant memories.
Once I regained composure, I tackled the apartment, quickly organizing things I had left in disarray and dusting the shelves. Fortunately, everything else remained undisturbed, saving me enough time. The thought of inviting someone into a tidy and organized space brought a sense of comfort amid the uncertainty that lay ahead.
The next morning unfolded with a sense of anticipation as I eagerly prepared for the meeting with Edward. The mission ahead required meticulous planning and a keen eye for detail, given the uncertainties we might encounter in Italy. After my morning routine of a refreshing shower and a cup of coffee – my indispensable companion for a productive day – I delved into the documents Liam provided, absorbing every detail to ensure our preparedness.
As time inched closer to our scheduled meeting at 10 am, I occupied myself with organizing and reviewing the mission-related materials scattered on the living room table. The weight of the task at hand lingered in the air, making each passing moment feel like an eternity.
To my surprise, the doorbell chimed earlier than expected, disrupting my concentration. Taking a deep breath to compose myself, I opened the door to find Edward standing there, dressed casually yet confidently. In his hands, he held two cups, a folder, and a bag from the nearby bakery – a thoughtful gesture, given the uncertainty of breakfast options at my place.
"Good morning, Edward! Come in." I said, stepping back and gesturing for him to enter.
"Good morning, Bella! I hope you haven't had breakfast yet. On my way here, I stopped by the bakery across the street and grabbed a few things. Emmett didn't leave anything in the fridge that could pass for breakfast." he explained hastily, perhaps with a hint of concern in his tone, or maybe that was just my perception. He handed me the bag from the bakery, and we both headed to the living room.
"I see you've changed your hair. It suits you." remarked Edward, raising an eyebrow in surprise—a gesture I didn't quite understand, but I felt a slight blush creeping up, prompting him to ease his concerned expression with a faint smile.
"Thank you. You've taken the necessary precautions according to Liam, I presume." I replied, attempting to reciprocate the gesture. We both reached for the croissants he had brought from the bakery and began eating slowly while discussing yesterday's tasks. Edward was also ready with his luggage, which internally delighted me—it seemed he was an organized agent, unlike Jacob, who preferred to tackle every task chaotically and at the last minute. The quick comparison between them made me furrow my brows and frown, catching Edward's attention.
"Bella, what's on your mind? Did something I said disturb you?" he asked with a concerned tone.
"No, don't worry. I just remembered some things I haven't sorted out yet." I tried to brush off the situation.
"Alright. In that case, I suggest we go through everything provided by the office." he proposed, reaching for all the sheets left on the table in front of us. "From what I've gathered and your alibis, it seems you might be the leading element between the two of us. I have a shorter cover, but that doesn't mean we can't blend our stories and not allow anyone to dig back into time."
"Yes, I noticed that too. It seems the office plans for us to play a couple with future plans, meaning in situations where people see us, we should behave as such. I have no problem with that. What do you think?" I looked directly into his eyes, waiting to see what emotions would pass through them, hoping to deduce what challenges we might face. To my joy, I only recognized one—determination, as he also responded that in this line of work, there's nothing that worries him.
Sipping his coffee slowly, Edward leaned forward and picked up some of the pictures. "I see that Enzo's family holds more than the leading establishments in the city, which leads me to think he won't be in just one place. In that case, maybe it would be suitable for our first day to explore each of them on our 'first' introductory walk, or maybe later, head to the port to inspect the docks from which the shipment to America is expected." he suggested.
That was my plan too, which seemed most suitable given the lack of a precise schedule. "Yes, I think we'll have to pass by them again in the evening or even split up to understand what to expect from thereon. All the establishments are located close to each other, and I assume it won't be a problem," I added.
"Good, that's a good idea. What do you say if both of us look for a job among them?" he proposed, making me contemplate the possibility of getting closer to them this way.
As we savored the last sips of our coffee, we continued discussing our strategy for the upcoming days. Edward revealed that he had also familiarized himself with the information from Liam, examining city maps and preparing himself for various scenarios. I was impressed by his thoroughness and dedication to the mission. Our collaboration extended beyond the tactical. Edward's insights into city maps and potential scenarios highlighted his commitment to the mission. He shared his observations and thoughts seamlessly, reinforcing the notion that this partnership was more than a mere alliance—it was a dynamic synergy, blending our strengths to face the unknown.
The conversation then shifted to our language skills. Edward, curious about my ability to speak Italian, inquired about it. I hesitated for a moment, contemplating whether to share the personal reason behind my proficiency. Eventually, I decided to keep that information to myself for the time being, merely stating that there was a personal connection.
With the initial topics covered, we delved into the stack of documents, scrutinizing each detail meticulously. Our discussion became a blend of strategic planning and casual banter, creating a sense of camaraderie between us. It was evident that our teamwork was crucial for the success of the mission. Edward's analytical approach and attention to detail were becoming more apparent, aligning with the disciplined nature of a seasoned agent. His inquisitive nature complemented my own. It was clear that our individual strengths were beginning to form a harmonious partnership or so I hoped.
As we concluded our breakfast and preparation discussion, we both felt a growing anticipation for the challenges that awaited us in Italy. Little did we know how intricately our paths would intertwine with Enzo's world and the complex web of intrigue that awaited us in the vibrant streets of the city.
That marked the conclusion of the last crucial aspect we delved into regarding our work. The rest of our 'meeting' unfolded as we delved into refining our flight plans and discussing the life that awaited us in Italy. As Edward bid his farewell and left, I allowed myself the luxury of contemplation, pondering the exact extent of effort it would take to collaborate closely with him. Unbeknownst to me, I observed how I inadvertently welcomed another person into my inner circle. Despite my usual inclination to steer clear of such entanglements, this time was different.
Edward's interaction with me was seamless, absent of any attempts to win my favor, in stark contrast to Jacob or my past experiences with men. Never before had I allowed such behavior to wield an influence on me. The day unfolded swiftly as I attended to lingering tasks that had been deferred for too long. The evening became a canvas painted with fleeting moments from today, all transposed into my dreams. It was there that my musings seemed to grant me a connection even more profound than the one I felt in reality. His penetrating green eyes became my ultimate demise.
Over the next two days, my routine oscillated between the office, training sessions with colleagues, visits to the shooting range, and my personal space. I deliberately chose to immerse myself in the mundane tasks, providing a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions that currently consumed me. The early wake-up call on the 10th of November was imperative, dedicated to completing those last-minute chores that I had intentionally procrastinated – tidying up the clutter, fixing the refrigerator, and ensuring my apartment was secured. The uncertainty shrouding the mission's duration compelled me to take precautions at home, avoiding unnecessary attention.
Stepping out onto the familiar street, I made my way to the nearby bakery, seizing my necessary dose of coffee before scouting for a taxi. Serendipity favored me, and within minutes, with the assistance of the taxi driver, I managed to load my suitcase, ready to embark on the journey towards the Sea-Tac entrance, where I was to rendezvous with Edward. As I arrived and quickly paid the cab fare, my eyes scanned the area for his familiar figure. Emmett, standing beside him, indicated that Agent McCarthy had yet to assume his undercover persona. Upon noticing my approach, Edward greeted me with an infectious smile that seemed impervious to the early hour, a sentiment I, unfortunately, couldn't reciprocate as I still tightly clutched my cup of coffee. Emmett bid farewell to his friend, offering a hearty pat on the shoulder and a brief, warm embrace before heading towards the taxi I had recently vacated.
With a shared glance between Edward and me, we navigated towards the check-in counter, securing our boarding passes for the impending journey. The silence hanging in the air was palpable, laden with unspoken words and the anticipation of what lay ahead. It was a charged silence, yet strangely comforting, as if acknowledging the weight of the mission and the uncharted territories we were about to navigate together.
As we approached the counter, the routine process of obtaining our boarding passes briefly broke the silence. Edward efficiently handled the necessary paperwork, his focus unwavering. The subtle hum of the airport activity provided an ambient backdrop to our thoughts.
With our boarding passes secured, we ventured towards the security checkpoint. The atmosphere was charged with a blend of anticipation and an unspoken acknowledgment that our lives were about to take a turn into the unknown. Edward's presence beside me was both reassuring and enigmatic, a paradox that mirrored the complexities of the mission ahead.
Once past security, we found ourselves in the departure lounge, surrounded by the transient energy of fellow travelers. The scent of coffee wafted through the air, reminiscent of the early morning ritual I had clung to before our paths converged. Edward and I settled into a corner, our solitude amidst the bustling crowd amplifying the sense of unity between us.
As we waited for our flight announcement, Edward broke the silence with a measured question, his voice a calm undercurrent in the airport symphony.
"How are you feeling about the mission, Isabella?" The simplicity of his question belied the complexity of emotions that surged within me. It was a thoughtful inquiry, an invitation to share the unspoken concerns that lingered beneath the surface.
I took a moment before responding, choosing my words carefully.
"Nervous, yet oddly determined. This mission feels different, and I can't quite put my finger on it." I met his gaze, finding a depth of understanding mirrored in his green eyes. It was a connection that surpassed the constraints of our professional alliance, transcending into something more profound.
Edward nodded in acknowledgment, his expression mirroring a shared acknowledgment of the weight our responsibilities carried. We lapsed into a companionable silence once more, each lost in our contemplations, as the airport continued its orchestrated dance around us.
The boarding call interrupted my thoughts, prompting me to turn my attention to the carry-on bag I would take with me on the plane. However, in that moment, our hands inadvertently crossed paths—mine with Edward's. The familiar yet peculiar sensation of the touch startled me again, leading me to face him, our eyes locking. Once more, it became evident that this sensation wasn't a figment of my imagination alone.
The call for boarding stirred me from my contemplation, and I rose gradually, reaching for my carry-on bag. However, my hand unexpectedly intersected with Edward's, reigniting that peculiar yet familiar sensation from before. It compelled me to turn toward him, our eyes locking once again, and it was clear that this experience wasn't solely a product of my imagination.
"Let me handle it, I've got empty hands," Edward remarked, flashing his trademark crooked smile, a gesture that had swiftly become my favorite. I shrugged, signaling for him to take it if he wished. Boarding the plane became routine, and the ensuing hours passed effortlessly as we immersed ourselves in music and books. Despite my skepticism about having ample time in Italy for leisurely reading, both of us had brought along our favorite novels.
The journey involved two layovers, providing us with brief intervals to stretch our legs and alleviate the stiffness associated with prolonged sitting. As the plane soared through the clouds, the landscapes shifting beneath us, our anticipation for the mission in Italy grew. Our conversations, while sporadic, were engaging, but nothing serious. Edward's company proved both comforting and stimulating, and amidst these exchanges, I found myself eagerly anticipating the challenges ahead. The turbulent sea of emotions within me began to settle, replaced by a burgeoning sense of partnership with the man seated beside me.
The final stretch of our journey brought us to Palermo late in the evening. From there, a short commute to the house in Cinisi awaited us, marking the commencement of our mission in Italy.
As our arrival in Italy, particularly in the town that would be our home for the next few weeks, didn't necessitate an immediate dive into our upcoming tasks, we took the car provided by the Seattle office and set off for our final destination. The day had been long since our early rise, and the weariness from the journey began to manifest, at least that's how I felt, sensing the hunger in my stomach. Edward decided to vocalize my thoughts directly:
"Do you want to stop at the next pizzeria and grab something for dinner?" he suggested, and my stomach answered him before I could, prompting laughter from both of us.
"Alright, say no more, dinner will be secured soon, madam." he said, adopting an accent unusual for him and then laughed at himself. This carefree Edward was another facet I witnessed for the first time during our brief acquaintance. He veered the car a few kilometers later, and before us stood a small pizzeria, bustling with people.
As we approached the restaurant, the captivating scent of Italian cuisine enveloped us, stirring our appetites. The pizzeria was a lively hub of activity, with waitstaff weaving through tables and patrons savoring their meals. The vibrant ambiance, a stark contrast to our usual surroundings, hinted at the distinct cultural experience that awaited us in Italy. Inside, the lively chatter of diners and the clinking of cutlery created a harmonious symphony. The menu presented a tempting array of local flavors, and we both chose the regional favorite, anticipating a delightful introduction to Italian cuisine. The waitstaff, a well-coordinated dance of efficiency, swiftly tended to our order, promising a satisfying end to our long day.
Exiting the restaurant with the lingering aroma of pizza in the air, we returned to our journey, the anticipation of reaching our destination building with every passing kilometer. The evening sky painted hues of orange and pink as the sun bid farewell, casting a warm glow over the landscape.
Guided by the GPS and the charm of an Italian night, we arrived at a quaint green gate adorned with creeping ivy. The subtle illumination of the house number confirmed that we had indeed reached our temporary abode. The scene, bathed in the soft glow of evening, welcomed us to the next chapter of our adventure.
The house, with its timeless charm, seemed to have stories embedded in its walls. The creak of the wooden floorboards whispered tales of previous occupants, leaving an indelible mark on the quaint abode. The front porch, a welcoming threshold, invited us into a living room adorned with an abundance of windows, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. The sunlit space exuded warmth, fostering a sense of comfort and ease. A compact yet well-equipped kitchen stood on the opposite side of the corridor.
Ascending to the second floor, we discovered both bedrooms, which would serve as our home for the coming weeks. They mirrored each other in layout, featuring a double bed, a wardrobe, a compact desk, and bedside tables. The furnishings, while modest, offered a comfortable retreat. A single bathroom on the floor, a departure from what we were accustomed to, left room for a slight adjustment but seemed manageable for our temporary residence.
As I explored the intricacies of the house, Edward handled the luggage, gracefully unloading our belongings from the car. A gentle knock on my bedroom door signaled his completion of the task.
"Come in."
"I'm carrying your luggage, where do you want me to put it?"
"Leave it by the door, I'll organize it later." I pointed to the desired spot, and after he left it there, he ran his hand through his hair, probably out of habit, even though it was significantly shorter now. He took a deep breath, exhaled, and looked at me with a tired expression.
"Do you want to have dinner? I suggest we go to bed early, we have a long day ahead tomorrow."
"Yes, I agree. I'll be down in a moment." I said and received a nod from him before he closed the door. I quickly approached the suitcase and started the first task of changing into something more comfortable. I took out some clothes for the night and some essentials. When I descended the stairs to the kitchen, I heard the clattering of dishes, a clear sign that Edward was already downstairs and waiting for me.
"Sorry for the delay." I said as I entered the small room. He had set the table with plates, cutlery, and two glasses of wine. I looked at him questioningly.
"I found unopened wine in the cabinet and thought it would be suitable for the end of our long day." - he explained, then shrugged and pulled out the chair, waiting for me to sit. When I sat down, he waited for me to settle in a way that was comfortable for me before sitting opposite me. He quickly grabbed the wine he had already opened and poured it into our glasses. Then he looked into my eyes, smiled slightly, and returned his gaze to the glass as if contemplating something. First, he furrowed his brows slightly, then looked intently at the liquid, swirling with circular motions, and finally returned his gaze to me. His green eyes were exceptionally penetrating, and his posture changed. He leaned back slightly, extended his hand with the glass towards me and looked me with intense glance.
"For our successful mission and a new beginning." he said, leaving me momentarily speechless with his ambiguous toast.
A new beginning indeed...
So, this is the new chapter for the week. Next time, it's Edward's turn to explain how the situation will unwind. I hope you liked it :)