Chapter 7

Four Days Before New Year's

Edward's persistent attempts to see Bella were met with a united front. Rose had come over to spend some time with Bella some needed girl time. Rose now stood beside Charlie, her stance protective as she faced Edward on the front porch. "She doesn't want to see you, Edward. You need to respect her wishes," Rose said firmly, her eyes narrowing.

Edward's face contorted with frustration. "She's overreacting. I just want to talk to her." Rose's expression hardened. "You had your chance. Now, you need to give her space." With a final glare, Edward turned and stalked away, his frustration palpable "This is not over Bella, not by a long shot" he called out over his shoulder. Rose watched him go, her shoulders relaxing only when he disappeared from sight. The tension disappears as Edward is no longer around and Rose and Bella enjoy their time together, getting to know each other a little bit more. Even if the time ended up being shorter than they wanted, they were interrupted as Bella's phone buzzed with an incoming call from Carlisle. Her stomach tightened with dread as she answered, hearing his measured voice on the other end. "Bella, I need you to come to my office. There are some things we need to discuss," Carlisle said, his tone leaving no room for argument. Turning to Rose, Bella says "I guess I had better get this over with, I am sure Edward went running to Daddy when I wouldn't talk to him today."

Carlisle's Office

Bella walked into Carlisle's office, her steps slow and measured. Alice and Edward were already there, their eyes narrowing as she entered. Jasper stood beside her, a silent pillar of support.

Carlisle's gaze was cool, his voice calm as he began. "Bella, the situation with Edward needs to be resolved now. You know that according to our laws, a human who knows about vampires must either be changed or eliminated. You know this and your resistance to Edward just complicates matters." Bella's heart raced, her mind flashing back to Alice's earlier threats. She remembered the cold certainty in Alice's eyes when she had warned Bella of the consequences of defiance. But now, even with Jasper by her side, Bella still felt a sense of resignation, tempered by the knowledge of their secret preparations. Her voice wavered slightly as she spoke, her resolve masked by a careful demeanor. "I understand, Carlisle," she said, her tone subdued, her eyes lowering to avoid Edward's intense gaze. "I'll cooperate. I just need time to adjust and feel safe."

Edward's growl rumbled through the room, a sound of both frustration and triumph. He moved closer, his presence almost overwhelming. "Bella, you need to understand that this is for your own good. We're only trying to protect you."

Carlisle's expression remained inscrutable, though a hint of relief softened his features. His voice carried a note of cautious approval. "It's good to hear that you're willing to comply, Bella. The situation with the Volturi is delicate, and any deviation from their expectations could have severe consequences."

Jasper's hand tightened around hers, a subtle gesture of support, though his face remained a mask of neutrality. His voice was carefully controlled as he spoke. "We'll ensure Bella is ready. Her abilities are improving, and we'll continue to work on them discreetly."

Alice's eyes flickered with surprise and a touch of concern. "You've been training her without reporting to us?" Jasper's gaze remained steady, though his eyes held a depth of understanding. "I report only to Carlisle as per my contract." "Your knowledge of my assignment was not included. "Should I include in my next report to Aro your interference in serving my sentence and fulfilling my contract, Alice?"

The room fell into a tense silence, the only sound the soft rustle of papers on Carlisle's desk and the ticking of a clock on the wall. Finally, Carlisle nodded, his demeanor a mixture of authority and secrets. "Very well. We'll move forward with this plan, but remember, Bella, your compliance is crucial. Any deviation could endanger those you care about."

Bella nodded, her heart heavy with the weight of the decision. "I understand, Carlisle. I won't do anything to jeopardize their safety." Carlisle's eyes softened briefly, a fleeting glimpse of the paternal concern he had once shown. "Good. We'll discuss the specifics and your progress after the New Year. Until then, follow the guidelines we've set."

Bella felt Jasper's reassuring grip on her hand as they left the room, the tension of the encounter lingering like a dark cloud. Once outside, she exhaled a shaky breath, her resolve firming despite the forced submission. They would play their part, but deep down, she knew that their plans were already in motion, hidden beneath the surface of their compliance.

Potion-Making

In the seclusion of the cottage kitchen, Bella and Jasper turned their focus back to the ancient law book that Esme had gifted Bella. The discovery of the hidden potions was a turning point in their clandestine preparations.

The first potion, designed to accelerate the transformation from human to vampire and reduce the associated pain, called for a precise combination of rare ingredients:

Mandrake Root: Sourced from the deep, shadowy groves of old forests, its anesthetic properties were essential to numb the pain during the transformation.

Phoenix Feather Ash: This mythical substance was challenging to acquire, found only through specialized magical suppliers. It was believed to carry properties that could quicken the cellular transformation.

Tears of the Moonflower: A bloom that appeared only under a full moon, its essence collected meticulously to ensure purity. It was known for its transformative and soothing qualities.

Dragon's Blood Resin: Obtained from ancient trees in remote jungles, this resin was known for its potent healing and regenerative properties, crucial for a swift and less painful transition.

The second potion, aimed at reducing bloodlust and stabilizing emotions during the first year of vampirism, required equally rare and powerful components:

Heartwood Shavings: Extracted from the ancient Yggdrasil tree's core, these shavings were believed to temper the intense hunger and drive for blood.

Elixir of Serenity: Distilled from the petals of the Calmbringer flower, this potion was renowned for its ability to soothe and stabilize volatile emotions.

Vampire Orchid Extract: From a rare flower found in hidden groves, this extract was used historically to balance the heightened senses and emotions of new vampires.

Peter had advised that they should prepare extra of each potion but did not tell them why. So, Bella and Jasper meticulously gathered these ingredients, navigating a web of magical and mundane contacts to secure each item. Their determination and careful planning ensured that they had all the necessary components quickly the potions would be needed in June.

The Secret Laboratory

In the cozy kitchen of the cottage, they transformed the space into an alchemical workshop, test tubes and beakers covered the kitchen island all setup to measure and mix the potions. Bella, with Jasper's guidance, began the delicate process of brewing the potions. The first potion shimmered with an ethereal light as Bella carefully combined the Mandrake Root and Phoenix Feather Ash, the mixture reacting in a swirl of vibrant colors.

Jasper watched, his eyes steady on Bella's every movement. "You're doing great, Bella. Just a few more drops of the Moonflower essence." Bella's hands were steady despite the gravity of the task, her focus unwavering. As she added the final drops, the potion settled into a radiant golden hue, pulsing with a gentle light. "It's beautiful," Bella murmured, her voice tinged with awe. Jasper's hand rested lightly on her shoulder. "You've done it. This will make all the difference when the time comes."

The second potion, a deep and calming blue, took shape next. Bella mixed the Heartwood Shavings with the Elixir of Serenity, the liquid taking on a soothing glow. When she added the final ingredient, the Vampire Orchid Extract, the potion emitted a soft, calming hum, resonating with a tranquil energy. With both potions complete, Bella and Jasper carefully divided the extra and stored them in reinforced glass jars, ensuring their safety until needed.

Final Preparations and Resolve

As the New Year approached, the cottage became a hub of focused activity. Bella and Jasper continued to refine her abilities, honing her shield until it was a seamless extension of her will both physical and mental. Peter and Char's presence provided a balance of sharp strategy and gentle support, their experiences adding depth to Bella's training. One evening, after a particularly intense session, Bella collapsed onto the couch, her body exhausted but her spirit undiminished. Jasper sat beside her, his eyes soft with concern and pride. "You've come so far, Bella," he said, his voice a gentle murmur. "We're ready for whatever comes next." Bella managed a tired but genuine smile. "I couldn't have done it without you."

Jasper's gaze was tender as he leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. "We're in this together. No matter what." As they sat in the quiet of the evening, the future still uncertain but their determination unwavering, Bella knew that they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. With their secret preparations complete and their bond stronger than ever, they were prepared to confront the trials of the coming year—united in their resolve and undeterred by the obstacles in their path.

Three Days Before New Year's

Three days before New Year's Eve, the crisp winter air filled Bella's lungs as she stepped out of the Swan house, mentally steeling herself for the day ahead. Edward was waiting in his sleek silver Volvo, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. "Ready for our shopping trip?" he asked, his voice smooth but with an edge of insistence that Bella had come to dread. Bella forced a smile, her heart heavy. "Yes, Edward." The drive to the exclusive boutique was filled with Edward's musings on the party, his plans for their future, and the importance of her appearance. Bella listened, her mind elsewhere, thinking about Jasper, Charlie, and their delicate plans.

As they entered the boutique, a saleswoman greeted them with a practiced smile. "Welcome! What can I assist you with today?" Edward took charge, his eyes lighting up as he glanced at Bella. "We're looking for a dress for my fiancée. Something elegant for a New Year's Eve party."

Bella's heart sank at the word "fiancée." The saleswoman, unaware of Bella's inner turmoil, guided them through racks of dresses until Edward's gaze settled on one. "This one," he said, pulling out a stunning A-line silhouette with a captivating lace bodice and a dramatic asymmetrical satin skirt. "Try it on, Bella." The dress was undeniably beautiful. The lace bodice was intricate, with delicate patterns that looked like frost on a window, and the satin skirt flowed like a cascade of moonlight. Under different circumstances, Bella might have loved it. But now, it felt like a shackle, the first step into a future she was desperate to avoid. In the fitting room, Bella slipped into the dress, her reflection a haunting image of resignation. She emerged to find Edward waiting, his eyes bright with approval.

"You look perfect," he said, stepping closer to adjust a stray lock of her hair. "This will be the dress you wear when I propose to you at the party." Bella's stomach twisted. "Edward, Alice already—" He placed a finger on her lips, silencing her. "No arguments, Bella. This is for our future." She nodded, swallowing her protests. The dress was purchased, and Bella felt each swish of the satin as a reminder of the chains she was being forced to wear.

New Year's Eve: Preparations and Party

The day of the New Year's Eve party, Bella found an unexpected ally in Rosalie. As the evening approached, Rose arrived at the Swan house, her presence a welcome distraction from the impending proposal. "Bella," Rosalie said, her tone unusually soft, "let's get ready together. Just us." Bella's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? No Alice?" Rose smiled, a rare, genuine expression. "No Alice. Just us girls, I knew you would need a friend tonight." In Bella's room, Rosalie helped her into the dress, her hands gentle and her words comforting. "I know this is hard for you, Bella. But remember, you're stronger than you think." Bella looked at Rosalie through the mirror, her eyes reflecting her gratitude. "Thank you, Rose. For everything." They spent the next hour talking, Rose's presence a balm to Bella's frayed nerves. As they finished, Rosalie placed a reassuring hand on Bella's shoulder. "We'll get through this. Just take it one step at a time." When they were ready, Charlie and Emmett escorted them to the Cullen mansion. Charlie, in his dark suit, gave Bella a supportive nod telling her. "Remember, Bella, you've got us. We're here for you." Emmett, towering beside them, added with a grin, "Yeah, Bella. And if anyone gives you trouble, I'll take care of them."

In his office, Jasper and his security team received their final instructions from Carlisle. The patriarch's face was stern, his tone leaving no room for deviation. "Bella is to be chaperoned at all times," Carlisle said, his eyes locking onto Jasper's. "She is never to be alone with Edward or left on her own. This will ensure her compliance and make it harder for her to run." Jasper nodded, his face a mask of calm as his mind worked through the implications. "Understood. I'll ensure she's protected." As the meeting concluded, Jasper felt a weight settle on his shoulders, knowing that tonight would test their plans and his resolve.