By the end of the week, Bella was healed up from her accident and her truck had been returned to her. She'd tried to pay Rosalie back, but the blonde had refused to accept anything for it, stating she enjoyed working on old vehicles and would take that as payment. Plus, from what she'd figured out later, Carlisle had been the one to pay for the supplies and he too, refused to let her pay him back. Edward ended up convincing her to let it go, stating that Carlisle can't help it and wants to provide for her. She did find his old-fashioned tendencies charming, and decided to let him provide for her now and then but making sure that he remembered his promise to let her do her part too.
During the second week of March, another death was reported in Port Angeles, bringing the total to four. It was obvious that it was starting to bother Carlisle, especially since he'd be the one held responsible should it get back to the Volturi, or so he explained to her one day. Since the territory was theirs and he was the head of the coven, it fell to him to maintain his territory. The big problem being, they'd been unable to locate the nomads. Alice couldn't see them, so any time the Cullen's went to Port Angeles, they were basically flying blind.
With spring break coming up, Carlisle worried about the teens of Forks going to Port Angeles and being targeted, so he did the only thing he could think of and agreed with Alice to hold a spring break party at the house. Bella, of course, tried to counter him, stating she might be able to get Charlie to put out a warning to the parents of the students to keep them from going. After a lot of debate, they went with both plans. Bella would ask Charlie about putting out a warning to parents to keep their kids away from Port Angeles, and Alice would host a party.
So, the week before spring break Bella found herself helping to plan this party, having already done her part and putting the idea into Charlie's ear about warning the parents. Alice was having a blast putting everything together, planning out multiple days' worth of activities and themes, hoping to entice the teens of Forks to stick around and partake in the festivities. Bella, however, was not enjoying it as much. After two days of helping, she was already exhausted. While Alice was busy on the phone, she went and hunted Carlisle down, finding him outside setting up outdoor sports and games for the teens to play.
Wrapping her arms around his middle, she let her forehead drop against his back as she gave an exaggerated sigh. She could feel him laughing at her. "It's not funny. Alice is going way overboard."
"Did you really expect anything different?" There was a hint of a smile to his tone.
Pouting a little, she shook her head. "I suppose not. Will you at least save me from having to participate the whole week?"
He hummed, turning in her arms to embrace her as she rested her chin on his chest. "There is something I've been putting off, that would get you out of the party, for some of the week. Though I don't know that it would be better than the party."
"Sold." She grinned at him. "What is it?"
"Well, I let the Volturi know that I found my mate, and that you were human, and they've asked to meet you. They are curious about you, and if all goes well, will agree to our arrangement of waiting until your 23 to change you."
"What if they don't let us wait?" She gripped the back of his shirt nervously; she was pretty sure she knew the answer.
"They'd likely have me turn you then and there, meaning we'd have to accelerate our plans." Carlisle cupped her face, stroking her cheek with his thumb. "You don't have to worry, love, I'm almost certain they will approve."
Nodding, she leaned into his hand. "I'll have to lie to Charlie again, I doubt he'd be ok with you and I jetting off to Italy together. I really wish I didn't have to lie to him all the time."
Carlisle kissed her forehead. "I know, I'm sorry you need to keep lying, but it's for the best. The fewer people that know about us the better."
Bella knew he was right, but it didn't make lying to Charlie easier. She ended up telling him that she'd be staying at the Cullen house for the week to help with the party and maybe take a few days in Seattle at the end of the week. Charlie accepted it, begrudgingly, and told her to be careful. Promising to do so, she continued to help with preparations. The plan was to have a themed party Monday, Wednesday and Friday, making Tuesday and Thursday recovery days. To Bella's surprise, it sounded like a lot of the student body planned to go, curious about the Cullens and eager for something to do over the week.
When Monday came, Bella wasn't sure if she should be excited or worried about having the student body congregated inside the home of a family of vampires. Not that she was worried about their safety, more so she was worried someone would notice how different the Cullens were from normal people. Another annoyance was she and Edward both had to remember to act like a couple while the students were there, less their ruse be discovered. Carlisle assured her things would go just fine and that she was worrying to much. He was probably right, he normally was, but it didn't stop her from nervously chewing on her thumbnail as they waited for students to show up.
Monday's theme for the daytime was sports and recreation. Outside they set up a bunch of yard games for people to play and inside they'd setup several game stations, thanks to Emmett, and had a plethora of food and drink for everyone. The invites had stated it would start at 11 and by noon, the house was bustling with students. Emmett, along with a bunch of other guys, were gathered around one of the TVs gaming while a lot of the girls were out back playing the yard games. Volleyball seemed to be the favorite sport, and a bunch of teens were having fun playing and taunting each other as the game progressed.
Alice and Esme spent most of their time playing host, and seeming to enjoy it immensely, while Rosalie watched the video gaming session with disinterest. Jasper was monitoring the outdoor sports with Carlisle leaving her and Edward to sort of float between being in doors and outside. Most of the time they spent hanging out on the deck watching the volleyball game. As the day wore on and night started to fall, Alice flipped on the string lights she'd spent almost a full day setting up all around the house and pulled out a karaoke machine.
The house soon filled with the offkey singing of teens and at some point, alcohol started to make its way around and many of the teens were starting to get drunk. Bella noticed that the Cullens seemed to be keeping a keen eye on those that were partaking in the alcohol and would cut off anyone getting too drunk.
It was well into the early morning when the house finally emptied, Bella was half asleep on the couch using Edward as a hard pillow. Once the last student had driven away, Carlisle came and gently scooped her up and carried her to his room. Despite his calm outward appearance, Bella could feel that it had started to bother him seeing her with Edward and the guilt that followed his jealousy.
Rubbing his chest as he carried her, she tilted her head up to look at him. "I'm sorry, today must have been hard on you."
A smile tugged at his lips. "I forget I won't be able to hide much from you. It wasn't pleasant seeing my mate with another, but I know it's for show, so I'll bear it."
He set her down so she could change into her sleep wear. "Well today you can spend the day with me, unless Alice ropes us into helping her with setting up for Wednesday."
"You know she will." Carlisle laid down on his side of the bed as she climbed under the covers next to him.
"I know, it's hard to say no to her. Besides, what are friends for if not to help with things like this." Bella yawned as she snuggled close to Carlisle.
He hummed in agreement and soon she was out. By the time she woke, the house had been cleaned, and all previous decorations had vanished. As she made her way to the kitchen, she could see outside that Emmett and Jasper were preparing the bonfire that would take place tomorrow night and were making sure there was plenty of seating. When she entered the kitchen, Edward handed her some coffee as he headed off to help the other guys, and Carlisle got to work preparing her a simple breakfast, even though it was nearly noon.
After eating, Alice surprised her by allowing her to just chill as there wasn't that much that needed to be done for Wednesday's party. Bella wasn't about to argue and took up residence in Carlisle's study for the day. Wednesday started very similarly to Monday. Students started showing up around 11am, playing video games or outdoor sports, and as the day progressed into night the Cullens lit the bonfire, and everyone milled around the fire. Some told ghost stories, others just chatted and drank. Once again, it was early in the morning when everyone finally left. Carlisle again whisked her away to his room so she could sleep.
Thursday morning Bella was grateful to find herself in Carlisle's Mercedes heading toward Seattle. She was grateful for the quiet after the commotion of the day before. As much as she understood the need to try and keep the teens of Forks safe, she just wished it hadn't been through a seemingly endless party.
Bella spent the drive reading until they reached Seattle's outskirts. Tucking her book away, she watched the scenery go by and noticed they seemed to be headed away from the normal entryway to the airport. Curious, she watched as they headed to a smaller section of the airport, a sign stating it was a private property.
"Please tell me you don't own a plane." Bella asked as they drove down the row of hangers until they stopped at an open one which Carlisle turned into and parked.
"No, but the Volturi do, and they insisted on us using it for our visit."
As they exited the car a tall man, even taller than Carlisle, in a light grey outfit and cloak walked up to Carlisle with a big smile on his face. "Ah, Carlisle, it's been too long."
They shook hands as Carlisle gave the newcomer a friendly smile. "It certainly has, Felix. May I introduce my mate, Bella Swan."
The man turned his smile to Bella, those red eyes a bit unnerving for her. "My, my, what a beauty. I am Felix."
Bella felt herself blush slightly as she held out her hand. "Nice to meet you."
Felix took her hand, leaning down and kissed the back of it, making her blush deepen. "If there is anything I can do for you during your trip, please don't hesitate to ask." The man gave her a little wink before righting himself. "We have a long journey a head of us, shall we begin?"
Carlisle put an arm around her shoulders, the bond giving off a possessive tinge which made her smirk as they headed towards the plane. When they reached the stairs, Felix ushered them onto the plane with a wave of his hand and a slight bow. Carlisle let her go first, following right behind her while Felix ordered for their luggage to be brought aboard. The inside of the plane was extremely luxurious, the seats all leather and plush, a kitchenette at the back of the plane with a bar, and what she assumed was a bathroom beyond that.
Taking a seat, she continued to look around as Carlisle sat next to her, Felix taking a seat opposite Carlisle, so they were facing each other. The pilots boarded the plan, having stored their luggage, and gave them a quick rundown of the length of the flight and takeoff and landing. Bella eagerly watched as they taxied out onto the runway as Felix and Carlisle chatted with each other. It wasn't until they were air borne that she tuned into their conversation.
"I'm curious, Carlisle, is it true you've bonded with the human girl?" Felix asked, a little grin on his face.
Bella furrowed her brow. "The human girl has a name."
Felix laughed, though what he found funny, she wasn't sure. "You have spark, I like that. My apologies, Bella, old habits and all."
She gave a nod in acceptance, and Carlisle chuckled lightly. "To answer your question, yes, we've bonded."
"Incredible." Felix looked between them genuinely awed. "How on earth did you manage to not break her?"
Bella felt her face heat up as Carlisle continued seemingly unaffected by the topic. "It wasn't without great difficulty."
"I would imagine." Felix rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "I had never considered a human partner; the temptation would be…delightful."
A shudder ran through her at the way he said it. Her mind supplied a myriad of scenarios that he could be concocting in his head and none of them were pleasant, and all ended with his partner dead. It was almost enough to turn her stomach at the thought. Pushing them away, she focused back out the window for a while before she started to feel hungry. Before she could ask about food, Felix stood.
"Where are my manners, Bella, my dear, was there anything I could get you? Food, drink?"
Glancing at Carlisle, who gave her an approving nod, she turned to Felix. "Something to eat would be great, and maybe a water."
Felix bowed slightly. "Coming up."
He headed back to the kitchenette and a little bit later returned with a sandwich and a bottle of water. Thanking him, she took them and started to eat. Felix excused himself and headed to the cockpit leaving her alone with Carlisle. Mulling over her encounter with the massive vampire, she wasn't sure what to make of him. He seemed nice enough, but that could be because he's being forced to be.
"Is he always like that?" She inquired between bites of her sandwich.
Carlisle grinned. "Yes, he's a flirt and blunt but all in all, not a bad guy. As long as you're on the Volturi's good side."
"What do you mean?"
"Felix is one of the Volturi's guard, he's extremely strong and very good at combat. He's not someone you want to have to face in a fight. So, if the Volturi have no reason to use him against you, your safe." Carlisle's grin widened.
Bella glanced towards the cockpit. "Very comforting."
"You have nothing to fear, love." He tucked her hair behind her ear. "I'd protect you if anything happened."
"Would you win?"
Carlisle hesitated. "I don't know, I've never tried to fight him before, but nothing will ever stop me from protecting my mate."
Smiling, she finished off her sandwich and sipped at her water before pulling out her book again. It was a long flight, the pilots having said 13 hours, so she figured she'd get some reading in to try and pass the time. Turning so her back was to the wall, she laid her legs across Carlisle's lap and started to read. She knew he didn't mind as they often sat like this as they read in his study. What surprised her was Carlisle shifted his seat to recline and laid there with his eyes closed.
Curious as to what he was doing, since she knew he didn't sleep, she wanted to ask, but something told her to just let him be. They stayed like that for an hour before Carlisle sat back up, pulling out his own book. She watched him from over the top of her book as he started reading. Feeling her gaze on him, he looked over with a smile.
"Something on your mind?"
Nodding, she lowered her book. "What were you doing just now?"
"Meditating. It's the closest thing I get to sleep, so I like to do it from time to time to clear my head." He answered easily.
"I've never seen you do it before." It was meant as a question but came out as a statement.
"I do it while you sleep."
"Oh, I was wondering what you did at night or if you just left once I fell asleep."
Carlisle smiled. "I meditate, read, or just lay there enjoying holding you. I leave if you start to shiver, or if I hear Charlie get up early."
She nodded, that made sense then why he was never there when she woke. One more reason she was excited for her change, then she wouldn't get cold if he held her. It would be nice, she always felt guilty when she had to end their cuddling because she got too cold.
"Sorry." She lowered her head a little, feeling guilty.
He reached over and tipped her head back up, his smile still on his face. "You don't have to apologize. We knew there would be some issues for the next few years. One reason our rules exist."
Nibbling her lower lip, she wondered out loud. "Maybe we should do the change earlier?"
Carlisle shook his head, the smile fading. "Unless your life is in danger, I have no intention of turning you earlier. I'm ok waiting, and I'm ok with you being human for a few years. Granted your recent car crash did make me reconsider for a moment, but I would like to wait."
"Why?"
"Selfishness." Carlisle said without even blinking. "I've watched Edward and Esme having to hide their relationship more often than not, and I don't want that for us if I can help it. I want to be able to show you off every chance I get."
"That's kind of sweet."
His grin re-appeared as his hands ran over her shins tracing little patterns. "It's also to give me time to come to terms with what I'll be doing to you. I've only ever turned people that were close to death, you would be the first that is perfectly healthy. Then there is the three days of agonizing pain you'll go through. It's not a pleasant process."
"It almost sounds like you don't want to change me." Her head tilted to the side as she watched his expression.
The grin widened. "It's a conundrum, I want both but need to choose one."
"And that's why you insisted on the 5 years?"
"No." Carlisle shook his head his fingers still absentmindedly tailing along her legs. "I wanted us to be the same apparent age, and I wanted to give you plenty of time to say your goodbyes. I have already decided to spend eternity with you, that desire will never change, even if you were to decide to stay human, I would stay by your side till your last breath. Then I would petition the Volturi to kill me so I could hopefully join you in the afterlife. Assuming it is still possible for someone like me."
The idea of Carlisle having to watch her grow old and die pained her. What was worse was the thought of him dying because of her. No, she would never choose a human life knowing it would cause the man she loved more than anything to suffer in the end. She would rather be damned with him forever.
"It won't happen, I'll never choose a human life. Not when I have the chance of eternity with you."
Carlisle gave her shins a pat, with that cute boyish smile of his. "That does make me happy that you want to spend eternity with me."
Content, she returned to her book and Carlisle to his. They stayed this way for a while, before Felix rejoined them and started up a conversation with Carlisle again. She listened to them reminisce about Carlisle's time in the Volturi, or how certain people were doing since Carlisle had last seen them. When dinner time came, Felix brought her a pasta dish that looked like it was straight out of a restaurant.
It was a little awkward being the only one eating. Then again, she wasn't great with blood so watching either of them eat might be to much for her. After dinner Felix seemed to take an interest in her and began asking questions about her life, and her plans for when she was changed. She answered his questions about her life, but was stumped at what she would do with the rest of her life. Having never sat down and really thought about it, she really wasn't sure what was going to come. Wanting her to experience human things, she knew Carlisle and the others would likely push her to attend college, but after that she didn't know.
Then came the question she hadn't been ready for. "So, when will you two marry?"
Bella blinked like a deer in the headlights. "Marry?"
Thankfully, Carlisle stepped in. "We haven't discussed it yet. My hope is to do it before her change so her parents might attend."
After they'd solidified the bond, Bella had assumed they would just continue as is, she never thought Carlisle might want an actual wedding. He'd told her before that once the bond was formed you were basically married in the eyes of the vampire world, so why would he care about a piece of paper? Stashing that away for now, she opted to talk to him later about the subject.
As it grew later and later, Bella began to tire. Felix produced a blanket for her, which Carlisle wrapped around her before lifting her onto his lap, her head coming to rest on his shoulder. She tried to resist sleep at first, feeling awkward again at being the only one, but Carlisle's voice soon lulled her to sleep.
A few hours later, she was woken by Carlisle gently shaking her and letting her know they were about to land. Groggy, she moved back to her seat, noting that Felix had vanished at some point, and watched out the window as they came in for a landing. As they taxied their way across the runway, she took note that it was a sunny day and glanced to Carlisle, but the man didn't seem concerned.
The plane made its way into a waiting hanger and once parked, Felix reappeared and led them off the plane. A black SUV pulled into the hanger and the driver hopped out and collected their bags from the pilots. Felix opened the back door for them and Carlisle helped her into the back seat before heading around the SUV to get in on the other side. It was strange getting treated so lavishly and wondered if the whole trip would be like this.
They made their way through the city, the windows of the car tinted to prevent the sunlight from entering. The city looked old, and Bella found herself fascinated by it and kept pointing out things she found interesting as they passed to Carlisle. He smiled as he gave her the history of the town and Bella hung on every word. When they arrived, the SUV parked in the shadows and Felix was quick to open her door and help her out, while the driver did the same for Carlisle.
"This place is amazing." She told Felix as she stared up at the tower above her.
"If you'd like, I can show you our art gallery later, or the library. Carlisle has told me you're an avid reader." Felix offered her his arm and to be polite she took it.
"I'd like that, if it's ok."
Felix laughed as he proceeded to lead her inside. "Of course it is, you are our honored guest."
Nodding, she marveled at the elegant stonework of the halls, and the large tapestries that she couldn't even begin to fathom how long they took to sew. Without prompt, Felix proceeded to tell her the history of the tapestry as they passed by, as well as any art piece or sculpture. He clearly either loved history and art, or had done this tour many times. They eventually came to a receptions desk where, to her surprise, a human sat.
Felix released her arm and went over to speak to the woman while Carlisle came up next to her. "Is she…"
"Human, yes. The Volturi have many humans working for them, the humans hope to one day be changed." He explained.
"Do they get changed?" She looked up at him hopeful.
"Some do."
She didn't want to ask what happened to the ones that didn't. Once Felix had finished with the receptionist, he gestured for them to follow down more hallways. They crossed paths with more and more vampires, all with red eyes, some in grey cloaks and others in black. It made her wonder if it was a status symbol but was starting to feel too nervous to ask. Felix led them into an antechamber with stone benches all around the round room.
"If you'll wait here, please." Felix gave a little bow and disappeared through the doors at the other end of the room.
Bella's nerves were only getting worse as they waited and waited. Carlisle took a seat, but she couldn't sit still and started pacing. Her heart thrumming wildly in her chest. She didn't know what to expect from the Volturi other than the fact that they were basically royalty of the vampire world, and she was supposed to meet them having just spent 13 hours on a plane and 4 in a car. What she must look like. Running her fingers through her hair, she hoped it wasn't looking as wild as she thought, and wished she could wash her face, suddenly feeling greasy.
"Bella, love, you're going to make me dizzy if you pace any faster." Carlisle watched her with an amused little smile on his face.
"Sorry, I'm just freaking out a little, these are important people, right? What if they don't like me, or think I'm just some commoner, or what if I look like a train wreck thanks to traveling. Or…or…" She trailed off as Carlisle stood, pulling her against his chest.
"You look beautiful as always; try not to worry about what they think and just be yourself."
Bella held him close, her nerves slowly seeping away into calm under his comforting embrace. When he held her like this, it genuinely felt like nothing could ever go wrong and that everything was right with the world. The sound of a door opening made her jump slightly as she turned in Carlisle's arms to see Felix's smiling face.
"Forgive the interruption, but they are ready for you."
Taking a deep breath, she slipped her hand into Carlisle's as they headed through the doors into a large room with a vaulted ceiling. Around the outside of the room stood vampires in different shades of grey cloaks, though most seemed to be black, and at the front of the room, sat three men in high backed chairs. On the left was a man that looked like he could care less about what was going on around him and just had an apathetic air about him. On the right sat a blondish-white haired man who had a sharp gaze that was trained on them. In the center of the three, sat a black-haired man whose hair fell past his shoulders, and had a hint of a smile on his face as they approached.
The room was deadly quiet, no one made a sound except for Bella's and Carlisle's feet on the stone floor. They came to a stop at the steps in front of the three men and for a moment, nothing happened. Then the man in the middle smiled and stood.
"Carlisle, my dear friend, it's so good to see you again."
"Aro, it's good to see you as well." Carlisle smiled, holding out his hand.
Aro took it in both of his own, a little hum as he stared for a moment before chuckling. "So, it is true, you really bonded with a human girl, and not just any girl, one that Edward cannot hear her thoughts." Those red eyes turned to Bella as he dropped Carlisle's hand. "Bella, my dear, would you be so kind?"
The man held out his hand palm up. Bella glanced at Carlisle who nodded. "Aro's gift allows him to see into the minds of those he touches."
Nervously she extended her hand and placed it in his. He covered her hand with his other hand with a hum. A moment later, Aro looked up with a shocked expression on his face, a grin spreading on his face. "Fascinating."
"What do you see brother?" The blondish white-haired man spoke.
"Nothing." Aro's breathed out. "I can't see her thoughts at all."
"Impossible." The other man spat.
Aro turned to the man. "Do you think they fooled me, Caius?" Caius seemed to shrink back a bit from Aro's steely gaze. Aro's attention returned to her, his smile reappearing. "You are a curiosity. I wonder, would you mind one more test to sate my curiosity?"
Nodding, she watched as he took a few steps back letting her hand drop. Turning away from her he looked towards a young girl that looked no bigger than Alice and motioned her forward. Carlisle instantly tensed, moving to block her view of the girl.
"Aro, please, not this." There was a hint of fear in his voice that had Bella on edge.
Aro simply smiled. "Jane."
"Pain."
Carlisle grunted, falling to one knee, his face twisted in agony. Through the bond all she could feel was burning pain from Carlisle, panic filled her as she tried to figure out how to help. Turning towards Aro, it was almost sickening to see the smile on his face as if he was enjoying torturing his so-called friend.
"Please!" She shouted, her voice echoing in the room. "Please stop, don't hurt him."
Aro lifted a hand and Carlisle's body went limp. Bella dropped to her knees next to him to check on him and though she could feel the anger and resentment he felt, he smiled to her assuring her he was alright. Helping him up, they faced Aro who was waiting patiently.
"Shall we try this again?" Aro asked, but it was clear it was a rhetorical question, they had no choice in the matter.
Carlisle took a step back, looking apologetically at her as Jane grinned. "This might hurt a little bit."
Bella braced for what might come. Seconds passed as Jane stared at her but oddly nothing happened. The silence was broken by Aro laughing a high-pitched giggle which seemed to startle Jane as she flinched then took a step back, glaring daggers at Bella. Relief flooded her from both her and Carlisle.
"You will make quite the interesting immortal, dear Bella. Though, I am curious why you are not already one of us." Aro spoke softly, looking between her and Carlisle. Bella assumed the man knew why, since he read Carlisle's thoughts, but likely just wanted it said out loud for the others to hear.
Bella opened her mouth to speak, but Carlisle beat her too it. "It's my fault, I wanted to give Bella time to put her affairs in order and have a little more time with her family before saying goodbye."
"Ah. I see." Aro turned and headed back to his seat, a contemplative look to his face. "I assume you've come to ask our permission to delay her change then?"
"Yes."
Aro tapped a finger against his lips as he considered their request, but Caius sat forward in his chair. "There is no reason to grant such a request. She should be turned at once, a vampire cannot be bonded to a human." He practically spat out the word human with so much distain. It made Bella wonder why the man hated humans so much but was not about to speak unless addressed directly.
"They are already bonded, of that there is no doubt. Why should it matter if the girl is human a few years?" The man on the left drawled out, he clearly could care less about what was going on.
Caius made a noise of displeasure and went to speak, but Aro lifted his hand to silence the man. "Now, now brothers, let us not quarrel in front of our guests. As Marcus pointed out, the bond is formed, and though I am enormously curious about how you managed it, Carlisle, I will abstain for now. I must say, I do agree with Caius to a degree. It is our law that a mate must be turned unless there is an extenuating circumstance. There is none here, so why should we grant you the delay?"
"My hope was to be the same apparent age as Bella, so we might be seen together and not draw unwanted attention." Carlisle said carefully.
The room fell silent for a long moment before Aro gave a little sigh. "Let us think on this for the night. Felix, set them up in one of our guest suites and see to any needs they may have. We will announce our decision tomorrow."
Carlisle turned her away from the three monarchs as they were quickly ushered out of the room. Felix seemed overjoyed that they'd be staying as he led them through more winding halls. Bella had been lost since they stepped inside the building and was hoping that Carlisle knew the way out if they needed to leave in a hurry. They were led into a large bedroom with a four-poster bed, an ornate trunk at the foot, a plush red rug on the floor, and paintings adorned the walls. It honestly looked more like a room for a king and queen than for someone like her.
"I hope this will be to your liking; I will have the kitchen send up something for your lunch. Should you need anything, please don't hesitate to let me know." Felix gave a flourishing bow before turning to leave.
Bella spotted her suitcase and decided what she wanted was a shower and a change of clothes. Grabbing her suitcase, she headed toward what she assumed was the bathroom. It was enormous. The bathroom was easily bigger than her room back home with an elegant tub that had gold faucets, the vanity was wide enough for three sinks, though it only had two. Setting her bag down, she walked over to the tub running her fingers along the edge of it. It could easily fit 4 people, and she debated calling Carlisle in to join her. Deciding against it, she stripped out of her clothes and climbed into the shower that stood in the corner.
Once she had showered, dried her hair and changed, she rejoined Carlisle in the main room. He was currently lounging on the bed, seemingly waiting for her. When he saw her, a smile broke out on his face.
"Feel better?" There was a hint of teasing in his voice.
Nodding, she set her bag next to his. "Much better."
There was a knock at the door. "Enter." Carlisle called out.
A young woman entered with a tray and without a word, brought it over to the table, set it down, then turned to them and waited. Bella was confused as to what she was waiting for, so she turned to Carlisle. He stood from the bed and addressed the young woman.
"That will be all, thank you."
The woman nodded and quickly scurried away, shutting the door behind her. Bella went to investigate the tray and when she lifted the metal lid covering the plate, she found a delicious looking chicken pasta dish in a creamy looking sauce. Suddenly hungry, she sat and started to eat as Carlisle took the seat across from her. The food was delicious. They chatted while she ate, Carlisle telling her who all the onlookers had been in the room and what their gifts were. He also apologized profusely about allowing Jane to try her gift on her, but Bella knew he would have been forced into allowing it regardless.
Honestly, she was just glad he was ok. The amount of pain he'd been in had been immense and she never wanted to see him in pain like that again. When she finished with her food, she laid down and took a nap, her head resting on Carlisle's thigh as he lightly stroked her hair. After her nap, Felix reappeared and offered to show her the art gallery, which she accepted and followed him while holding onto Carlisle's hand.
The room they were led to was massive with paintings and sculptures all over the place. Felix began to joyfully tell her about each piece as they slowly made their way through and about halfway, Bella noticed a painting that looked remarkably similar to a certain blonde-haired man standing next to her.
"Stregone benefico?" She read the little golden plaque curiously.
Felix chuckled. "Well done, as you might have guessed the subject of this one is our dear Carlisle."
Turning to Carlisle the blonde smiled. "A nickname I acquired while I lived here with the Volturi."
Nodding, she turned back to the painting. There were still so many things she didn't know about the man, and she wondered absently if she'd ever know everything there was to know about him. Giving his hand a squeeze, she reminded herself that they'd have eternity for him to tell her. Pulling herself away from the painting, they continued their journey through the gallery.
At the end of the tour, it was early evening, so Felix brought them to a dining hall where there were several groups of humans eating together, chatting and laughing. As they sat down one of the young men came up to them and Felix smiled to Bella.
"Are you hungry my dear?"
She nodded. "Could I have a salad?"
The young man nodded and headed towards the kitchen, coming back a few minutes later with her requested salad and a glass of water. Carlisle and Felix returned to their discussion of who was the best painter, which they'd been arguing over for nearly half an hour already, but it was amusing seeing Carlisle worked up over a topic he loved so she just listened in. While they debated the subject, she looked around the hall, noticing that the groups of humans seemed incredibly interested in her presence. Many of them openly stared as they whispered to each other, making her feel uncomfortable.
One group started giggling as they watched her, making her wonder what they were saying about her. Carlisle had tensed, likely having heard them, but it was Felix's reaction that surprised her. He slammed his hand down onto the table, the sound echoing through the hall and rattling her plate and glass, which Carlisle had to catch to keep from tipping over. Felix stood abruptly; expression flat as he stared down the group of previously giggling humans.
"Since you appear to have nothing better to do than gossip, all of you are to report to your higher up and inform them you felt the need to mock our honored guests, and pray they only give you more work." Felix's voice low and dangerous.
The group lowered their heads and quickly left to do as told. Bella watched, worried about the fate of the group, she'd caught the implication in Felix's words and hoped that whoever they reported too had some semblance of mercy. They didn't deserve to die just because they were mocking her. Looking at Carlisle, it was obvious he shared her opinion, but he said nothing.
Felix sat back down, the smile returning to his face. "My apologies for our staff's poor behavior, I'll make sure they are properly punished."
Swallowing hard, she glanced at the door they'd vanished through. "You won't hurt them, will you?"
This seemed to confound Felix as the man stared at her in awe. "If that is what you wish, I will ask for leniency."
"Please."
Felix nodded in agreement, and she finished up her meal so they could head back to their room. Once they were alone again, Bella let out a sigh of relief. Being around these aristocratic vampires was a bit exhausting, not to mention unsettling seeing so many red eyes all over the place and worrying they might try to attack her. She knew Carlisle would protect her, and likely Felix, but it was still unnerving.
Flopping onto the bed, she stared up at the ceiling. She was getting anxious about tomorrow, would they approve their request, or would this be her last day as a human. Either way, she'd be happy to leave, this place was too stuffy for her tastes. Rolling to her side she watched Carlisle as he pulled out some sweats and a t-shirt and started to change, uncaring that she was watching. When he dropped his pants, she wolf-whistled at him, getting a smile from him.
"Behave." Was all he said.
Once he was changed, he joined her on the bed, and she moved to lay her head on his lap. Carlisle's fingers lightly trailed over her arm and back as she continued to fret about tomorrow. Eventually, she got to be a little too comfortable and fell into a deep sleep. She dreamed of a time where they would both be sitting in the field of wildflowers, the sun shining off their sparkling skin, while she lay against Carlisle's chest as they enjoyed the feel of the sun.
In the morning, she woke with a smile on her face as the scent of Carlisle hit her senses. She made a note to ask him to stay more often, she enjoyed waking up to him next to her. Snuggling closer to him, she hummed happily, not quite ready to face the day. Carlisle let her pretend to sleep for a while before finally coaxing her up. They had to meet the Volturi in a couple of hours, and he wanted her to have time to eat and change, so she pulled herself away from him and went to shower and change. Carlisle had breakfast ready for her by the time she was finished, so she ate while he packed their things back up.
Felix came to collect them when it was time and like before, they were led to a smaller room just outside the main room. They again were forced to wait nearly an hour until the door opened and they were invited into the main room. Bella gripped Carlisle's hand hard, trying to embody the strength he projected as they walked to the center of the room. There were more onlookers this time, clearly intrigued by the odd pair that they apparently made.
Aro had a big smile for them as they came to a stop, she hoped that meant good news. "Welcome, I trust you had a pleasant night?" They both nodded their agreements, Carlisle offering his thanks. "Excellent. Now to the matter at hand. We have come to a decision about your request."
There was a pause, and Bella thought her heart might explode from the anticipation. The only sound in the room was her breath, all the patrons standing stock still as they waited for the verdict. Aro interlaced his fingers together resting his elbows on the arms of his chair.
"We have decided to grant your request. Young Bella is to be changed by her 23rd birthday and we will, of course, require proof once she is changed."
Carlisle smiled. "Of course, thank you for your understanding and permitting this."
Aro's gaze fell on her. "I am quite interested in your ability, if you would visit again after your change, I would greatly appreciate it."
Bella nodded wordlessly in agreement. She didn't love the idea of having to come back here, but at least it would be as a vampire and not a potential meal for someone. With that settled Aro stood, hands clasped together in front of him.
"I believe this concludes our business today. Travel safely now, Bella and Carlisle."
Carlisle wasted no time in turning her away from the three leaders, Felix quickly jumping into step ahead of them as they exited the chamber. Several winding hallways later they were outside, Bella breathed in a lung full of fresh air. It felt good to be outside again, even if it was only for a moment before they were ushered into an SUV and off to the airport. Felix walked them to the plane, but this time he did not join them as they took their seats and instead said his goodbyes and hopes to see them again.
The flight back was long and somewhat boring. She tried to entertain herself with reading but soon found that to be more of a chore as she was struggling to focus on the words. They were maybe halfway through the flight, and she was restless. Carlisle, on the other hand, seemed perfectly content with his book, though there was a smirk on his face that told her he found her antics amusing. His hand came to rest on her thigh, she assumed to try and help calm her, but she was eager to be home, and the plane ride was taking too long.
Glancing over at Carlisle, she remembered the conversation he'd had with Felix about their marrying someday. Thanks to her parents divorce she'd never really considered herself the marrying type. After all, it was just a piece of paper. Laying her hand over his on her thigh, she gave it a squeeze. Golden eyes flicked over to her, and she couldn't help but smile at him. If she was going to marry someone, it would be Carlisle, there was no doubt about that.
"Carlisle? Do you really want to get married one day?" She asked tentatively.
His little smile grew. "Of course, I want you to be apart of the Cullen family, and to let the world know you are mine."
She couldn't help the giggle that came out of her. "And me wearing the family crest wasn't enough?"
Closing his book, he turned to her. "Not even close. The universal sign of connected lovers is a wedding ring, so I plan to adorn your finger with a ring, even if we don't have a fancy wedding, I still want to be officially bound to you."
Smiling, she hugged his arm, laying her head on his shoulder. "I think I'd like that too."
He kissed the top of her head. "Good, Mrs. Bella Cullen."
Her smile widened at the sound of it, it didn't sound too bad if she was honest. They chatted a little bit more about what they might like for a wedding before Bella finally felt worn out enough to sleep. Carlisle, all to happily, pulled her onto his lap and cradled her in his arms until she fell into sleep.
When they reached the house, the others eagerly awaited the verdict from the Volturi and cheered when they were told they were granted the 5 years. Alice, jokingly, said they should celebrate, but everyone shut that down after the week they'd had. Bella headed home, told Charlie a little about how the week had gone and headed up to her room to relax for a bit. It had been a crazy week, and she was ready for some normality again.