Chapter 68: Denali
The blood flooded Bella's mouth, warm and thick, as she sucked greedily from the man's neck. Euphoria hit her in waves, heightening her senses as she felt his frantic heartbeat, pounding in a futile attempt to keep up with the rapid loss of blood. She reveled in the sensation, taking another long, deep pull, savoring the taste that coated every inch of her throat.
But then, something unexpected happened. As she continued to drink, the flow of blood shifted—pulled away from her. A wicked smile tugged at her lips as her eyes locked with Edward's, who was latched onto the other side of the drug dealer's neck. His mouth pressed against the man's flesh, drinking with the same eager hunger she felt. The sight of Edward feeding, his eyes dark with pleasure, sent a thrill through her.
Feeling playful, Bella sucked harder, her tongue working against the wound as she tried to draw more blood than Edward. She wanted to see who could take more, testing the limits of their shared meal. Another hot mouthful slid down her throat, the heavenly taste hitting her like a drug, sending exhilaration through her veins. Edward's eyes flickered in response, and she could see the joy, the freedom, in his gaze—a shared understanding passing between them.
She swallowed again, feeling the last pulses of life draining from their prey. The man's heartbeat slowed beneath her lips, fading with each second. But Bella felt no remorse—only the raw pleasure of feeding, of having fun with Edward, and of being exactly what she was. A vampire.
Sadly, with two mouths greedily vying for the most blood, the man was drained far too quickly. The realization hit them simultaneously—they had sucked him dry. They both released him at the same moment, smiling at each other as the lifeless body fell to the ground, forgotten now that their thirst had been satisfied.
Edward's gaze never left Bella. God, did she look utterly enchanting. There was a wildness in her eyes, an intensity that felt like it could pierce straight through him. His attention shifted to her lips, still stained with traces of blood, and he noticed a small crimson droplet slowly trailing down her chin.
He couldn't allow that.
In one smooth movement, he pulled her to him, her body pressing eagerly against his. Bella came willingly, fitting perfectly into his embrace, her breath catching as the heat between them charged the air. Edward's eyes locked onto the small streak of blood on her chin, and he leaned in, closing the distance between them.
His touch was slow, deliberate, as his tongue gently traced the path of the blood, savoring its taste and the excitement of touching Bella in such an intimate way. The sensation was electric, and he felt Bella respond instantly, a soft tremor running through her as his mouth lingered near hers.
Her body pressed harder into him, a soft gasp escaping her lips. She clung to him, her fingers curling into his shirt, and he could feel the desire between them intensify. The way she looked at him, the way she trembled in his arms, sent a thrill through him that was far more than just the taste of blood—it was her, every part of her, that made him feel alive in ways he had never known before.
"That was amazing," Edward murmured, his voice husky with genuine awe. He couldn't remember a more intoxicating moment, the raw intimacy of what they had just shared still pulsing through his veins. His gaze remained locked on Bella, his thoughts swirling with the thrill of the experience. "How about you get rid of him, and we find somewhere more... private to talk?"
Bella smiled, her face just inches from Edward's as he held her close. With a slight nod, her body didn't need to move a muscle. Her shield lifted the lifeless body at their feet, gently guiding it through the air toward a nearby garbage bin. Even as the flames surrounded it, her gaze never wavered from Edward's—intense, focused, as if they were the only two people in the world.
Once the task was done, he gently set her back on the ground, though their fingers remained intertwined. They left the alley hand in hand, without a glance backward, the cold night air doing nothing to diminish the heat that simmered between them. As they walked down the quiet, deserted street, the anticipation of all that was to come lingered between them, unspoken but unmistakable.
As the first rays of the sun broke over the Chugach Mountains, Bella nestled comfortably against Edward, the quiet serenity of the early morning wrapping around them. The night had been perfect. After their shared meal, Edward had suggested they find somewhere secluded, away from the world. They had ventured miles into the wilderness until they discovered a peaceful clearing where freshly fallen snow blanketed the ground.
They lay on the snow all night, their bodies unbothered by the cold, talking about anything that came to mind. Bella had been eager for Edward to tell her more about the novels he had written during his time in Italy. The passion in his voice as he described the stories, the diverse characters, and the intricate plots only deepened her interest. She found herself captivated by the depth of his imagination, the originality of his plots reflected the rich inner worlds he had created during those long years of isolation.
With her suggestion that Edward should really type them up and maybe one day consider getting them published, his eyes brightened. For nearly a century, the thought of seeing his works in print had been a distant fantasy—something he hadn't believed would ever come to fruition. But now, as he reflected on his newfound freedom, he realized that every dream, every wish he had held onto, was now within his grasp. He had the skills, the discipline, and the drive to make them all a reality.
Though they had spent hours talking and sharing more about themselves, neither Bella nor Edward wanted to neglect the spark between them that had ignited earlier in the night. They hadn't yet defined their relationship, but both were eager to explore their growing intimacy. They kept finding reasons to lean in, their lips meeting in soft, lingering kisses that grew with every touch. Edward had never experienced anything like it—the feel of Bella lying against him, kissing him with unrestrained passion as he held her close. Each kiss sent a surge through him, her warm breath and the intoxicating feel of her body against his making it impossible for him to get enough of her.
With the rising of the sun, they set off toward Denali, the crisp morning air invigorating them as they sprinted across the vast, untamed countryside. There was no rush to reach their destination, so they decided to simply enjoy the journey, letting the surroundings become their playground.
They raced up the sides of towering mountains, their laughter echoing in the thin air as they scaled the jagged peaks with ease. Occasionally, they ran alongside massive herds of wild animals who, startled by their presence, tried to outrun them—hooves pounding the frozen ground. But no matter how fast the herds ran, they could never outpace two vampires enjoying themselves.
By the time they reached the Denali region, their clothes were covered in dirt and their hair tousled from the wind, but neither of them minded. They had spent the day immersed in one another, reveling in the pure joy of their bond, their shared laughter, and the unspoken connection that seemed to grow stronger with every passing hour.
Edward led Bella through the familiar terrain toward the Denali coven's secluded home. Even after a hundred years, he was struck by how little the landscape had changed. The few cars they passed on the winding roads were obviously newer, and the roads themselves had been modernized, but the untouched wilderness that stretched out around them was just as he remembered it. It seemed humanity had yet to encroach upon this remote area, which likely explained how the Denali clan had managed to remain hidden here for so long.
When they arrived at the large house nestled halfway up the mountain, Edward's gaze settled on a car parked in the driveway. He hoped it was Eleazar's and that he was home, rather than the sisters. He and Bella had finally begun to grow closer, something he had been hoping for, and the last thing he needed was one of the sisters trying to insert themselves between them.
Edward wasn't sure if Bella was the jealous type, but he certainly hadn't enjoyed the feeling that had gripped him back on the airplane when that man had shown interest in her. The memory of that unwelcome attention still lingered, and though Bella had handled it with the utmost grace... a chuckle escaped his lips, making Bella glance at him in question. He just smiled back. No, he didn't want any distractions from what was building between them.
Dusk had just fallen as they began their ascent up the long flight of steps leading to a large wraparound porch. Edward's grip tightened slightly around Bella's hand, anticipation bubbling in his chest. The house was still and quiet, with only the faint rustle of wind in the surrounding trees. He lifted his hand and knocked lightly against the sturdy wood. A few moments of silence passed before the door finally swung open.
To his delight, it was Eleazar standing in the doorway.
Eleazar's expression shifted from curiosity to shock as his eyes locked onto Edward's face. His usually composed features froze, his eyes widening to saucers, and his breath caught audibly in his throat. "Edward?" he gasped, his voice barely more than a whisper, as if he couldn't believe what he was seeing. He stood there, momentarily paralyzed by disbelief. "How... how is this possible?" His gaze flicked briefly to Bella before snapping back to Edward. "We all thought you were dead—decades... almost a century ago."
"It's good to see you, Eleazar," Edward said, extending his hand. Eleazar, still staring in disbelief, raised his own hand almost instinctively, his expression frozen in shock as their hands met in a firm shake. Edward could feel the lingering surprise in Eleazar's stiff posture, but the warmth of their handshake seemed to melt away some of the initial shock.
Gesturing toward Bella, Edward added, "This is my friend, Bella Swan. We've come a long way, and I was hoping we could talk." Edward smiled, a genuine warmth spreading through him. It was a relief to see a familiar face after so many years. Though he had only met Eleazar once before, he remembered the kindness both he and Carmen had shown—not just in their actions, but in their thoughts as well. Eleazar had always struck him as a good man.
Eleazar blinked, as if shaking off the last traces of disbelief, and managed a smile. "Of course," he said, stepping aside and gesturing for them to enter. As they crossed the threshold into the house, Eleazar turned and called out, his voice echoing through the quiet halls, "Carmen! You need to come down here—you'll never guess who just arrived!"
Bella entered the house, walking closely beside Edward as they moved through the front entryway. The space opened up before them into an expansive room, and Bella immediately saw why Edward had said this place used to be a ski lodge. It was enormous, with high vaulted ceilings and wide, open spaces that still carried the cozy, rustic charm of a mountain retreat.
Eleazar led the way. Like all vampires, he was striking, his strong Spanish accent adding a pleasant lilt to his speech. His long, slicked-back hair gleamed under the soft lighting, and though he appeared to be well past his 20s when he was turned, there was an ageless quality about him that made it hard to tell exactly when that transformation had occurred.
The main room, which looked like the heart of the house, stretched out before them. It stood at least two stories tall if not more, with massive windows at the front that would flood the space with natural light during the day, making it feel even more expansive. Toward the back of the room, a grand, wide staircase ascended into the upper levels of the house, likely leading to numerous guest rooms. Bella's eyes wandered over the warm, wooden beams and stone accents—the home exuded a sense of tranquility and longevity, as though it had witnessed countless peaceful moments over the years.
As she took in her surroundings, movement caught her attention. A figure zipped down the staircase with vampire speed and came to an abrupt stop, her wide eyes locking onto Edward in sheer shock. The woman had long black hair intricately braided and woven at the back of her head, the delicate strands catching the light. She stood frozen for a moment, her mouth slightly agape in disbelief. Bella noted her beauty, striking in its simplicity, and guessed that she had likely been turned in her early 20s.
"Edward Cullen? My lord, we thought you had died!" Carmen exclaimed, her voice thick with shock and disbelief. In an instant, she zipped across the room, enveloping Edward in a warm, welcoming hug before stepping back to stand beside her husband. As she studied him more closely, she noticed a striking difference in his demeanor compared to the reserved, somber vampire who had visited so many years ago with Carlisle.
Now, Edward wore a wide, genuine smile—something she couldn't recall ever seeing on him before. It was a refreshing change, one that piqued her curiosity. Her gaze shifted to the woman standing beside him, and she was momentarily taken aback by her beauty. The newcomer was radiant, with a confidence and grace that immediately caught Carmen's attention.
A silent question flickered through her mind: Were Edward and this stunning vampire a couple? The way they stood so closely, with their fingers almost touching, made it seem likely. Carmen hoped the sisters wouldn't cause any trouble, knowing how easily they could get carried away around a new, attractive female vampire—especially one as breathtaking as this woman. Past encounters had occasionally led to complications, particularly when a single male vampire was involved. She breathed a quiet sigh of relief, thankful that Kate had a boyfriend now, so there wouldn't be any zapping to worry about.
"Come, let's sit down," Eleazar said, his tone calm but carrying a thread of curiosity. He gestured toward the sofas, leading them into a cozy, inviting space by a large lit stone fireplace. "Dear, this is Edward's friend, Bella Swan."
Carmen smiled warmly, her eyes flicking to Bella with a mix of curiosity and welcome. Bella returned the smile, and the two women exchanged a brief, silent acknowledgment before everyone settled into their seats. Bella sat close to Edward on a loveseat, her body instinctively leaning toward his, their proximity natural and unspoken. Eleazar and Carmen took their place across from them on a larger, more comfortable sofa.
Once they were seated, Edward exhaled softly, preparing to speak. "I see you're both surprised to see me," he began, his voice steady, though it carried the weight of his words. "That actually answers one of my questions. I've always wondered if anyone knew what had happened to me."
He paused briefly, gathering his thoughts. Bella placed her hand lightly on his knee, offering her silent support as he continued.
"In 1929, I was captured by the Volturi," Edward stated, his tone now darker, more resolute. "They framed me for breaking their laws and threw me into their dungeons, demanding I join their guard in exchange for my freedom. I refused. And because of that, I remained their prisoner... for nearly a century. Until three weeks ago."
The room seemed to freeze at his words, the crackling of the fire the only sound breaking the sudden silence. Carmen's hand instinctively reached for Eleazar's, her brow furrowing as she took in the gravity of what Edward had just revealed. Eleazar leaned forward slightly, his expression growing somber as he processed the weight of Edward's story.
"Dios mío!" Eleazar exclaimed, shaking his head slowly, his voice laden with emotion. "I'd like to say I'm shocked, but sadly, I've seen Aro's treachery too many times before." His eyes darkened, the weight of Edward's ordeal settling heavily upon him. "I'm truly sorry, Edward. No one should suffer such treatment—especially not for so long."
He paused, taking a deep breath as memories of his own confinement flickered through his mind. While he hadn't been locked in the dungeons, he had been a prisoner of Aro's will all the same. "I know all too well the toll it takes on a vampire to lose their freedom... to have their free will taken from them."
A somber silence filled the room as Eleazar's gaze shifted, the burden of guilt clouding his expression. "There's something you need to know," he continued, his voice quieter now, tinged with regret. "In the 1930s, Carlisle came to me. He was desperate for answers after you vanished without a trace. He asked my advice about reaching out to the Volturi, hoping Demetri might use his ability to find you."
Eleazar's shoulders slumped slightly as the full weight of his regret seeped into his words. "I convinced him not to," he admitted. "I warned him that contacting Aro would only pull him back into the Volturi's grasp, binding him to Aro's will once more. And... I told him that you were most likely dead." His voice faltered as his eyes dropped briefly to the floor. "I reasoned that if you were alive, you would have found a way to contact him."
Eleazar looked back up at Edward, his expression a mixture of sorrow and remorse. "For that, I am deeply sorry."
Edward was quick to dispel Eleazar's regret. "No, Eleazar. You did the right thing," he said firmly. "Nothing good would have come from Carlisle knowing the truth. It would've only put him in harm's way."
He paused, his gaze growing distant as he reflected on the years spent under Aro's control. "I'm still amazed Aro never threatened Carlisle's life to force me into the guard. But I suppose when he read my mind, he knew it wouldn't have worked. I would never have agreed, no matter what. And killing Carlisle would've only made me more determined to defy him, and Aro would've gained nothing."
A cold edge crept into his voice as he continued, "And it was Demetri who captured and framed me. So even if Carlisle had reached out to him, it would've been useless."
Edward met Eleazar's eyes, wanting to put his guilt to rest. "You spared Carlisle from making a bad situation worse. You made the right call."
"Thank you for understanding, Edward," Eleazar said, his voice heavy with relief, clearly glad that Edward didn't harbor any resentment. He leaned back slightly, the tension easing from his expression. As Edward's words sank in further, Eleazar's brow furrowed in thought. "Three weeks, you say? That's... recent. So, does that mean the rumors we've been hearing are true? Are the Volturi truly gone?"
Edward's gaze remained steady, listening intently as Eleazar continued. "I've been in contact with a few covens who've gone to Volterra. They reported back that while there was some minor damage to the castle, it didn't look like a massive battle had taken place. It's left everyone questioning. No one knows for sure what really happened. Are they truly gone, or were they somehow driven from the castle?"
Eleazar paused, his brow furrowing deeper as he weighed the uncertainty that lingered over the vampire world. "Many of us are on edge. Covens are holding their breath, hoping their reign of terror is finally over—but no one dares say it out loud yet, not when it could still be some sort of trick."
He glanced between Edward and Bella, searching for answers. "Do either of you know anything?"
Bella noticed Edward's gaze shifting to her, and she knew this was her moment to speak. She straightened slightly, her voice calm but carrying the weight of what she was about to reveal. "I think I can add some clarity to what happened," she began. "Roughly three weeks ago, the Volturi came for me. They brought me to Volterra, where I stood trial before the kings for an exposure issue—which, I'll admit, I was guilty of. I had hoped for a peaceful resolution with Aro, but he had no interest in that."
She paused, her expression hardening as the memories surged back. "Aro demanded I join his guard for all eternity. He threatened to murder my family and my friends unless I submitted to his will. I had, of course, heard all the horror stories about the Volturi, but in that moment, I saw firsthand just how evil they really were."
Bella's voice took on a steel edge. "I wasn't about to become Aro's slave, so I did the only thing I could do. I killed every last one of them."
The room fell into a stunned silence. Carmen and Eleazar gasped, their eyes wide as they absorbed the gravity of her words.
Bella's gaze remained steady. "After making sure I left no loose ends in the castle, I headed to the dungeons. That's where I found Edward, and luckily, I was able to free him, along with the other prisoners who had been unjustly locked away."
Eleazar stared at Bella, beyond shocked, his mind struggling to process what she had just revealed. This young woman had ended the Volturi? The most powerful coven to ever exist, who had lorded over the vampire world for over three millennia? The thought seemed impossible. He leaned forward, his brow furrowed in disbelief. "How is this possible?" he asked, his voice tinged with incredulity. "No offense, Bella, but how could you accomplish such a thing? You seem... ordinary. You don't even have an ability."
His eyes swept over her, still trying to reconcile her seemingly unassuming presence with the magnitude of her claim. He had used his gift on Bella the moment she and Edward had arrived at the door, and as far as he could tell, she was as ordinary as a vampire could be—no special talents, no supernatural edge. How could she have taken down the Volturi, a force even the most powerful vampires feared?
Eleazar's mind raced as he studied her, waiting for an explanation—something that could make sense of this impossible feat.
"What are you talking about, Eleazar?" Edward's voice carried an almost incredulous laugh. "Bella is probably the most powerful vampire to ever exist." He glanced at Bella, his gaze softening when he saw her smiling at him, a playful spark in her eyes. Edward smiled back. It seemed Bella enjoyed hearing him praise her... well, she was in luck—he planned to sing her praises for the rest of eternity, if she'd let him.
Eleazar blinked, clearly taken aback by Edward's declaration, his brow furrowing in confusion as his gaze darted back to Bella.
Bella, intrigued by the exchange, tilted her head slightly, curiosity dancing in her expression. "I think I'm out of the loop here," she said with a faint smile. "What exactly is Eleazar's ability?"
Her question lingered in the air, and Eleazar leaned forward slightly on the sofa, his curiosity piqued. His gaze sharpened as he processed everything he had just learned. Finally, he spoke, "I can sense the abilities of other vampires, or even the potential for them in humans," he explained. "When I met you at the door, it immediately told me that Edward was a powerful mind reader, but with you... I sensed nothing at all."
Bella nodded in understanding, a small smile tugging at her lips. "I see," she replied thoughtfully. "I think your issue is that I'm a shield, and no vampire abilities work on me. By the time the Volturi figured that out... it was already far too late for them."
As Bella spoke, a cold dread seeped through Edward, Eleazar's words echoing in his mind. He leaned forward, his eyes narrowing in confusion. "Excuse me, did you say you still see me as a mind reader? How is that possible? I no longer have that power. The Volturi... they took it away from me back in 1929."
Eleazar's brow furrowed as he studied Edward again, focusing on his perception of Edward's gift. To him, it seemed as strong as ever—perhaps even more potent than when they had last met. Shaking his head, Eleazar's voice was calm but firm. "No, Edward. Your ability is still very much intact. In fact, it feels even stronger now. You say the Volturi removed it… I assume you mean Sarah?"
Edward's gaze sharpened at the mention of Sarah's name, and he gave a slight nod in response.
"She's a type of shield," Eleazar explained, leaning forward, his tone measured. "Her power can block other abilities, making it seem as though they're gone. But they aren't—they're only suppressed. If you can get her to remove the blocks, your ability will return just as it was before."
"Sarah's dead," Edward said, turning his gaze toward Bella.
Bella nodded definitively. "Yes, she's most definitely dead."
Eleazar's expression faltered, a look of concern washing over him. "Then I'm truly sorry, Edward. Without Sarah, I'm not sure how the blocks could ever be removed."
Bella's brow furrowed as she considered Eleazar's words. "You say Sarah's blocks were shield-based?" she asked, her voice thoughtful. She watched as Eleazar nodded slowly. It made her think. Her shield could do so much. One day, perhaps, she could learn to… She looked at Edward and smiled. It was a thought for a very distant day.
Eleazar studied Bella closely, his curiosity piqued. He couldn't help but wonder how such a powerful vampire had stayed under the radar. "How long have you been a vampire, Bella? Forgive me, but I don't believe I've ever heard of you before."
Edward glanced at Bella, a hint of amusement in his eyes. He could sense Eleazar's growing intrigue, but this was Bella's story to share. After a brief pause, he asked, "Can I tell them, Bella, or is it still a secret?"
Bella grinned, her eyes sparkling with a touch of mischief. "No, you can tell them. I was only keeping a low profile because of the Volturi and, well..."
With a nod, Edward turned back to Eleazar and Carmen, a smile tugging at his lips. "Bella's a relatively new vampire," he said, his voice carrying a note of pride. "She was only turned in 2007. But, Eleazar, you've definitely heard of her… she's Starshield."
Eleazar's eyes widened in shock. Both he, Carmen, and the sisters had, of course, watched the broadcast of Starshield saving countless lives several weeks ago. Now, the events of the past few weeks were all starting to come into focus. They had suspected that Starshield might be a vampire, but some doubts had lingered—she had seemed too powerful, too... otherworldly, to be one of them.
Now, as Eleazar looked at Bella and imagined her wearing that mask, everything clicked into place. He let out a soft chuckle, shaking his head in disbelief.
"My, my, Bella. I certainly misjudged you." His tone carried a mix of admiration and awe. "We all saw what you did. The entire world is still obsessing over you and that day. You saved so many lives." His gaze softened, now filled with both respect and curiosity. "Knowing who you are now, I realize what you did broke our laws, but... you should be very proud of your actions. Truly." He glanced at Carmen, who smiled warmly beside him. "We have so many questions."
Bella smiled warmly at them, genuinely touched. It was reassuring to hear from vampires outside of her immediate circle that they understood and even supported the choices she had made. "I'd be happy to answer your questions," she said, "but first, Edward has some things he's been wanting to ask. It's actually why we came here." She turned to him, her eyes encouraging. "Edward?"
Edward's gaze lingered on Bella for a moment. He truly found her presence soothing, a constant source of calm no matter what they discussed. Her voice had a way of grounding him, and it was difficult to pull away from that comfort. But he refocused on Eleazar and Carmen, sitting a little straighter as he spoke.
"Yes," Edward began, his voice steady but carrying a note of hope. "Since gaining my freedom, I've been trying to find Carlisle. I want to let him know I'm alive and well." He paused, glancing briefly at Bella before continuing. "Bella has been helping me adjust to this new world—one that's changed so much since I was last free. I tried searching for Carlisle on the Internet but came up empty."
His gaze shifted back to Eleazar, a hint of urgency beneath his composed exterior. "I knew you and Carlisle were friends, so we came here hoping you might be able to help us find him."
Eleazar nodded, a warm smile touching his face. "Of course, Edward. I know how much Carlisle misses you. Both he and Esme still speak of you often, with fond memories." He paused, gathering the details in his mind. "Carlisle is currently going by the name Carlton McCarty. Since you've been gone, he's welcomed two more into his family—Rosalie and Emmett McCarty. They've been married since the late 1930s," he added, meeting Edward's gaze. "They're all currently living in Spokane, Washington. I can give you their address and contact information."
Edward's face lit up with gratitude. "Thank you. And if you wouldn't mind… please don't inform Carlisle that I'm coming. I'd like to surprise him and Esme." He shared a glance with Bella, a playful smile on his lips.
"Of course, Edward," Carmen replied, a warm smile crossing her face. She could already imagine the joy this reunion would bring to Carlisle and Esme, knowing how much it would mean for them to see Edward alive and well after so long.
Bella chuckled softly. "It's funny," she said, turning to their hosts with a smile. "It seems we're headed back to Seattle. We just came from there after landing from Paris."
She then shifted her attention back to Edward, a new thought crossing her mind. "Hey," she began, her voice softening slightly, "would it be alright with you if we made a quick stop in Forks before heading to Spokane? I haven't seen my father in a while, and I'd like to say hello. And, well…" she paused, her eyes brightening with anticipation, "I could introduce you to him, too."
Edward's face lit up at the thought that Bella wanted him to meet her father. "Yes, I'd like that very—" but before he could finish, Eleazar interrupted, his expression suddenly serious.
"Did you say Forks, Washington, Bella?" Eleazar asked, his tone cautious. Bella nodded, curiosity flickering in her eyes. Eleazar leaned forward slightly, his brow furrowed. "I would be very careful going there," he warned. "Carlisle and his family lived in Forks briefly, back in the late 1930s. They barely escaped with their lives. The area is home to creatures… vicious werewolf-like beings. They were extremely dangerous, even to vampires. Since then, we've all avoided that region entirely."
Edward's eyes widened, taken aback by Eleazar's warning. "Werewolves?"
Bella smiled, realizing she had yet to share the story about the wolves with Edward. "Oh, you don't have to worry about them," she said confidently. "I'm actually quite familiar with the wolves."
Edward looked at her, curiosity flickering in his eyes. Bella chuckled softly, recalling the memory. "About ten of them attacked me the first time I visited my dad after my transformation. I had planned it to be a final goodbye, but things didn't go as expected. To my surprise, my dad knew I was a vampire the moment he saw me. Turns out, he'd been dating a woman whose son was one of these werewolves, and when my dad accidentally saw him transform, they spilled the beans to him about the whole supernatural world."
She laughed, the memory still vivid. "Well, when the wolves attacked me, I had no idea what they were. I was about to put them all down, but my dad stopped me just in time. There was a lot of back-and-forth with their leader, but in the end, we made a peace treaty."
Her smile softened, her tone turning more reflective. "My dad eventually married this woman, so now I've got a stepbrother and a stepsister who are both werewolves—although they prefer to call themselves shape-shifters or spirit warriors. Most of them are intolerant assholes, but my stepbrother Seth is actually a really great guy. You'll like him, Edward."
Bella leaned a little closer, her voice turning playful. "And don't you worry, they won't attack as long as you're with me. And of course, we don't eat anyone in the area…" She grinned, her eyes glinting with humor as she winked at Edward. "Which we wouldn't have done anyway."
Eleazar shook his head, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "It seems in your short time as a vampire, Bella, you've led a remarkably eventful life. We'd love to hear more of your story," he said, his voice filled with genuine curiosity. "And of course, we'd be happy to share ours with both of you." His eyes flicked toward Carmen as he added, "I too was once bound to the Volturi against my will—for centuries, in fact. I would likely still be there had Aro not found someone he deemed more useful. Besides meeting Carmen," he lifted her hand, pressing a soft kiss to it, his gaze warm and affectionate, "it was the happiest day of my life when Aro informed me that my services were no longer required."
Bella smiled at their sweet exchange, feeling at ease in the warmth of the company surrounding her. The conversations flowed naturally, with Bella sharing more about her journey as a vampire—from her unexpected transformation to her encounters with vampires overseas, some of whom even Eleazar knew little about. Eleazar and Carmen, in turn, opened up about their own histories, while Edward sat back, grateful to once again be among friends, and relishing the opportunity to finally be able to create new stories of his own.
The hours passed in a flurry of storytelling and light-hearted gossip. Eleazar regaled them with tales of the Volturi's more bizarre members, while Carmen added anecdotes about the different covens they'd encountered over the centuries. They all enjoyed each other's company, and Carmen invited Bella and Edward to stay a few days before returning to Seattle—a suggestion they gladly accepted.
Later in the evening, Carmen glanced at her watch, her eyes widening slightly. "I hate to interrupt, but Eli and I have an appointment in town soon, and if we don't leave shortly, we'll be late," she said apologetically. She hesitated for a moment, her gaze flicking between Bella and Edward. The two seemed close, though she hadn't quite figured out if they were a couple. A playful smile danced across her lips as she asked, "Will you be needing one room or two? Either is fine—we have plenty of guest rooms."
Bella glanced at Edward, a slight smile tugging at her lips as her thoughts swirled. She wanted so much to say "one room," but their new relationship, while amazing, hadn't quite reached that level of intimacy—yet. Even if she secretly wished it had.
"Two rooms would be fine," she replied, her tone light, though an unspoken hint lingered in the air. She turned back to Carmen, offering a polite smile. "Thank you, Carmen."
"Of course," Carmen responded, a knowing smile crossing her face as her eyes sparkled with amusement. "And I think you both might enjoy a shower," she added, her gaze sweeping over them. "It looks like you two had a bit too much fun on your way up here," she teased warmly.
Bella glanced at Edward, a soft chuckle escaping her as she took in his disheveled state. She doubted she looked much better, but at least they both had spare clothes in their backpacks.
Carmen's attention shifted as she continued, "The girls are out on a hunting trip right now. They thought they might return today, but it depends on how far out they went. I'll send them a text to let them know we have company, so they won't be surprised if they show up before we get back." She smiled reassuringly before adding, "We should only be gone an hour or two."
"Thank you again. Yes, a shower sounds perfect right about now," Bella said gratefully, following Carmen's gesture as they stopped at the door to her room on the second floor. She cast a glance back, sharing a warm smile and a playful wink toward Edward before closing the door behind her.
Inside, the room was spacious and inviting, filled with beautifully crafted oak furniture that added a touch of elegance to its welcoming atmosphere. A large bed sat in the center, its soft, thick blankets draped neatly over the mattress. Bella ran her fingers over the edge, feeling the luxurious fabric, and sighed with a hint of longing. If only she could sleep, to lie down and drift off in the embrace of such comfort.
With a small smile, she crossed to the bathroom and caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. She grimaced slightly, running a hand through her disheveled hair. It was clear as day—she definitely needed that shower.
As she began to undress, her thoughts wandered to Edward. A wicked smile tugged at her lips as she imagined how amazing it would be if they could share the shower. She sighed wistfully, allowing herself a moment to picture what could be.
Back in the hallway, Carmen led Edward to his room, conveniently located right next to Bella's. She paused at the door, smiling warmly. "Here you are, Edward. I just have to say, we're truly happy to see you again," she said, her tone sincere and full of warmth. "And I must add, you seem much happier than the last time you were here."
Edward's returning smile and gentle nod confirmed it. "Thank you, Carmen. It's good to see you and Eleazar as well," he replied. "And yes, I am happier... for so many reasons." His words held a weight she could feel, and she saw a glimmer of something deeper in his expression.
As he turned into his room, Carmen lingered for a moment, watching him go with a quiet sense of satisfaction. She exchanged a knowing glance with Eleazar, who had come to join her, both silently marveling at the transformation they saw in Edward. He seemed like a man unburdened, finding peace for the first time in years. As they made their way down the stairs, Carmen couldn't help but smile, hopeful for what lay ahead for their long lost friend.
Stepping into his room, Edward closed the door behind him, a quiet sigh escaping as he glanced around. Part of him wished he and Bella were already at the point where they could share a room—share everything. But for now, that would have to wait.
Crossing the room, he stopped in front of a full-length mirror and had to chuckle, seeing the evidence of their playful trek through the Alaskan wilderness—smudges of dirt and traces of leaves clinging to his skin and hair. Pulling off his shirt, he let it fall to the floor before unbuckling his pants and stepping out of them, followed quickly by his boxers. He paused, taking in his nude reflection with a hint of wonder.
After nearly a hundred years without seeing himself in a mirror, it felt strange to stand there, looking at his own face and body—both familiar and new in a way he couldn't quite explain. Even the simplest acts—like taking a shower—carried a sense of novelty, a reminder of the life he now had the freedom to rediscover. With a small, contented smile, he turned toward the bathroom, ready to wash away the day's dust.
Stepping into the spacious shower, Edward slid the glass door shut behind him. He turned on the water, adjusting the temperature until it was a perfect, scalding heat. As the spray hit his skin, he exhaled slowly, savoring the sensation of hot water cascading over him. After a hundred years without a shower, this simple luxury felt almost surreal. He chuckled to himself—thankfully, vampires didn't have body odor, or Bella might have left him in that cell without a second thought.
Reaching for the bottle of shampoo, he noticed the label read Strawberry. He squeezed a generous amount into his palm, the thick, rich scent flooding his senses as he worked it into his hair. The strawberry aroma filled the enclosed shower, vibrant, sweet, and overpowering. He took his time, lathering up thoroughly, savoring every moment.
As he lathered his hair, Edward's mind drifted to Bella, his thoughts simmering with a desire that only seemed to intensify the more he thought about her. The kisses they'd shared earlier had left him in a daze, his feelings igniting in a way he had never experienced before. The realization that Bella was likely naked in the shower, just one room away, only fueled his fantasies.
He could see her in his mind, standing under the warm spray, her hands gliding over her skin, soap slipping across the curves of her breasts, her body arching slightly as she rinsed off. The thought sent a powerful jolt through him, his arousal building with each vivid detail. He imagined her fingers trailing lower, water cascading down as she touched herself, her eyes perhaps drifting shut, lost in her own indulgences.
Edward felt his dick harden completely, the strain causing a persistent ache. Every nerve in his body urged him to relieve the tension, but he held himself back. The last thing he wanted was for Bella to hear him and think he was some sort of degenerate. Yet, he was teetering on the edge, his hands twitching with the urge to ease the pressure. Stifling a groan, he turned his face into the hot spray, focusing on lathering his hair in an effort to keep his hands occupied.
As Edward continued to lather his hair, he heard it—the unmistakable sound of the shower door sliding open. Instantly, every sense sharpened, the air around him charged as he felt a presence standing just behind him. Oh god—Bella had decided to join him! She was so close... what was going to happen? He could feel her warmth, even though she hadn't touched him yet. If he had a heartbeat, he was certain it would be racing.
This wasn't a dream or a fantasy—Bella was truly here, and he found himself frozen, anticipation coiling tightly within him. He stiffened as he felt her hands begin to massage his shoulders, her touch gentle but deliberate. A wave of relief and excitement washed over him, his breath hitching as her fingers began kneading the tension from his muscles, each press sending sparks along his skin.
Then, slowly, her hands slid down and around, her fingers threading through his light chest hair. Lowering his gaze, he watched in a captivated trance as her right hand traveled down over his abdomen, massaging in small, teasing circles that ignited every nerve ending in his body.
Her left hand, however, moved further down his thigh in a featherlight touch, her fingers finally trailing inward until he felt her hand close around his straining member, her touch both tender and thrilling. A shiver ran through him at the electrifying sensation, and he fought to not let go. He was on the brink, certain he'd explode at any second, but he clung on, desperate to prolong this overwhelming and entirely new experience.
He watched, mesmerized, as Bella's hand slowly began sliding up and down his shaft, each movement deliberate and controlled. The sensation was unbelievable, leaving him lightheaded, if such a thing were even possible. As her pace quickened, Edward felt her body press against his, her warm breasts against his back grounding him, while her other hand tightened around his stomach, holding him in place. He could feel the coiled tension mounting inside him, each stroke making it harder to keep himself in check.
Bella was now pumping her hand with a vigorous rhythm, her strokes almost a blur. His breaths came faster, more ragged with each passing second. Panting, overwhelmed by his approaching release, he couldn't hold back, and a moan slipped from his lips, "Oh god, Bella…"
But to his dismay, Bella's hand stopped abruptly, denying him his release, and as her grip remained firm around his engorged member, an affronted female voice pierced the air: "And who, exactly, is Bella?"