Chapter 90: The Destruction of Quartz Mountain
Edward sat motionless on the sofa, as unyielding as stone. The hum of voices and faint sounds of the house had faded into the background, reduced to little more than a distant murmur. His mind fixated on one thought alone—Bella. Morning… She'd promised. He clung to the word like a lifeline, replaying it in his head as he envisioned countless scenarios of her arrival. Some were far more preferable than others.
The sharp chime of the doorbell cut through his thoughts like a jolt of electricity, yanking him from his reverie. Energy surged through him, as though bringing him back to life, propelling him to his feet. A smile curved upon his lips as he moved swiftly, reaching the door in the blink of an eye. With a flourish, he swung it wide open, and there she was. Bella.
Her beauty struck him anew, her radiant smile lighting up the morning as if she carried the sun with her. Before he could say a word, she leapt into his arms, her warmth enveloping him in an embrace that felt like it could last forever.
He let out a long, steady breath, holding her tightly, his arms instinctively locking around her slender frame. Bella nestled closer, her face burying into his neck, and for a moment, the world outside ceased to exist.
Edward could feel her reluctance to pull away, and he wasn't about to be the one to end this. He leaned in, breathing deeply, her familiar scent wrapping around him like a soothing balm. Every trace of the anxiousness that had plagued him the last two days melted away in her presence. "I've missed you," he murmured, his voice low and tender against her ear.
"I've missed you too," Bella replied softly, her words muffled slightly as she stayed tucked against him. Her voice held a hint of playfulness as she added, "This feels nice. Honestly, I just want to take you somewhere we can be alone. But I guess that would be rude, and I should probably say hi to everyone first."
Edward chuckled, resting his cheek against her hair, but before he could respond, Emmett's booming voice interrupted from the living room. "Damn right it would be rude! Come on, Starshield, let's hear about outer space! You've just gone where no vampire has gone before!"
Edward heard Bella sigh softly, but when they pulled apart, her radiant smile reassured him. He leaned in closer, his voice low and full of promise. "It won't be that long, and then we can have that alone time. Trust me, I'm not forgetting about that." His lips curved into a sly grin before he nodded toward the house. "Besides, everyone's dying to hear about your trip. Oh, and we had some unexpected visitors show up last night too."
Bella nodded, her curiosity piqued. She caught the playful gleam in Edward's eyes and smiled as he stepped back, motioning for her to enter first. She crossed the threshold, the faint scent of pine and fresh rain lingering in the air as the front door creaked shut behind her. Edward moved beside her as they headed into the living room, their steps in perfect sync.
The living room was alive with a quiet hum of energy, already filled with vampires, their presence making the space feel even cozier. Carlisle and Esme sat together on a love seat, Carlisle's arm draped around Esme's shoulders. They both looked up as Bella entered, their warm smiles welcoming her return.
On the larger sofa, Rosalie reclined elegantly, her long legs crossed as if she'd just stepped out of a magazine shoot. Her calm demeanor was a stark contrast to Emmett, whose broad frame seemed too large for the sofa to contain. He was hunched forward, his eager expression impossible to miss, his eyes practically sparkling with anticipation. Bella couldn't help but smirk—he looked ready to burst with questions about her journey.
But then her gaze shifted, and her steps faltered for a moment. Sitting in a plush armchair, two familiar figures rose to greet her. Her grin widened instantly, a rush of warmth spreading through her as recognition hit.
"Alice, Jasper!" Bella's voice carried her excitement, her eyes lighting up as she took them in. "What are you guys doing here? Are you friends with the Cullens?"
She hadn't seen the pair in years, not since she'd spent a few days at their ranch in Montana. Memories of Alice's infectious energy and Jasper's calm presence washed over her. Jasper's ability didn't work on her, but it hadn't mattered—his quiet strength and Alice's effervescent personality had made her feel at home in their company.
Alice's smile brightened, her excitement palpable. "No, this was our first time meeting everyone. Peter told us where you'd be, and I wanted to speak with you."
Before she could continue, Emmett's booming laugh cut through the room. "They gave some of us quite the fright, showing up during the storm last night. The... ladies mistook Jasper for the Pale Rider! But don't worry, we protected them." His chest puffed out with exaggerated bravado, his grin as wide as ever.
Bella couldn't help but grin as her gaze shifted to Rosalie, who was silently shaking her head behind Emmett, a flicker of exasperation crossing her otherwise perfect features. It was clear there was more to the story, and she looked forward to hearing it. Turning her attention to Jasper, she noted his calm expression betrayed by the faintest twitch of amusement at the corner of his mouth.
"Jasper... The Pale Rider?" Bella scoffed, arching an eyebrow. "Don't be ridiculous. Jasper's a teddy bear." She caught the faintest hint of a smirk from him, his lips curving ever so slightly.
Alice, unbothered by Emmett's interruption, picked up as if the break in conversation hadn't even happened. "But we'll have plenty of time to talk later, Bella—I'm sure everyone's eager to hear what you have to share." Her voice carried a playful lilt as she tilted her head ever so slightly, her ruby eyes sparkling with mirth. "Jasper and I are definitely looking forward to hearing all about the further adventures of Starshield."
Bella's lips curved into a small smile as she studied Alice. Ever since their first meeting, Bella had been convinced that the tiny, vibrant vampire knew far more than she let on. It wasn't paranoia; it was fact—Alice could see the future. The thought struck her as surreal. Had Alice foreseen her adopting the Starshield persona decades before she was even born? The idea was a strange one, but with vampire abilities, a little weird mixed with the unexplained seemed to come with the territory.
Bella pushed the thought aside, letting her gaze sweep the room. "Alright, everyone." Her tone was light, carrying a hint of anticipation. "Do you have questions, or should I just dive right in and regale you with the tale of my voyage to the stars?"
She moved to the love seat beside Edward, settling in and leaning into his side. His arm wrapped around her shoulders without hesitation, the simple touch grounding her in the moment. Bella's gaze swept across the room, meeting a mix of ruby and golden eyes, each fixed on her with quiet intensity. The air was thick with expectation, every stare urging her to begin.
Drawing in a deep breath, a grin spread across her face, equal parts confident and playful. "Alright, then." Her tone was light, yet it carried the weight of the moment. "Here we go."
Bella's tale unfolded over the course of the morning and stretched well into the afternoon, weaving through every detail and punctuated by a cascade of questions from her audience. The mix of curiosity, awe, and occasional disbelief from the others kept the room buzzing with energy. By the time she finally reached the end, a sense of quiet satisfaction settled over her. The story was told, every detail laid bare, and the latest surreal chapter of her life could now take its place among the many others she had lived.
The room fell into a rare silence, broken only by the distant hum of wind through the trees outside. It was a moment of collective reflection, the family digesting not only the enormity of Bella's adventure but also their own place in her orbit.
It was Carlisle who finally broke the quiet, his measured voice carrying across the room. "Tonight," he began, "the family is going to head out for the hunting trip we postponed due to Edward's arrival. Edward, Bella, you're both welcome to join us, of course. And the same goes for you, Jasper and Alice." His golden gaze swept across the room to where the visiting couples sat. "Have any of you ever considered trying our way of feeding?"
Out of the corner of her eye, Bella caught Edward's subtle shake of his head and stepped in before Carlisle could continue. "Thank you for the offer, Carlisle." Her tone was respectful but firm as she added, "But I think Edward and I are happy with the way we currently feed." Her expression remained neutral, though it took effort to suppress the instinctive grimace that threatened to surface at the thought of what Carlisle was suggesting.
Carlisle's expression remained calm, though a hint of disappointment flickered in his eyes. He nodded graciously, shifting his attention to Jasper and Alice. The two were perched together on the armchair, Alice curled comfortably on Jasper's lap. His arms encircled her waist, holding her close, and though his ruby eyes reflected the predatory hunger that never fully left their kind, there was no hostility—only polite understanding.
"Thank you for the offer," Jasper replied, his Southern drawl lending a warmth to his words. "But Alice and I are content with how we live. There was a time, before I met Alice, when I might've been interested in trying a different path. But with her help, I've found peace—with myself and with the way we choose to feed." His gaze remained steady, devoid of judgment but resolute in his conviction.
Carlisle nodded again, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "I understand. And I appreciate your honesty. Just know that if any of you ever wish to explore our way of living, the invitation is always open." His voice carried the quiet strength of a man who had spent centuries extending such offers, knowing full well they were rarely accepted but offering them nonetheless.
Seeing that story time had finished, Emmett practically launched himself off the couch. "Jasper, Edward—how about some Call of Duty? I'm a beta tester and got my hands on the newest game. It hasn't even been released to the public yet." His grin stretched wide, enthusiasm radiating off him like a kid with a new toy.
Jasper leaned back in his chair, an easy smile tugging at his lips. "Sure, sounds like fun."
Edward looked like he was about to respond, but Bella smoothly cut in. "Actually, Emmett, if you don't mind, I'm going to borrow Edward for a bit. There's something... vitally important I need his help with."
Edward turned to her, a knowing smile spreading across his face as he laced his fingers with hers. "Of course. Anything for you."
Bella met his gaze with a slight smirk before shifting her attention to Alice. "We'll be back later today. Is it alright if we talk then?"
Alice's grin turned devilish as she winked. "Sure thing, Bella. Have fun."
Bella stood quickly, almost pulling Edward to his feet, and with their hands still clasped, they zipped out of the house in a blur. The cool forest air greeted them, rushing past like a whisper, the world reduced to a cascade of green and gold streaking by.
As they ran, Bella's mind wandered, a wry thought creeping in. Had Alice just had a vision of her and Edward fucking like bunnies in the woods? The idea flitted through her mind but was dismissed almost as quickly. Alice had told her long ago that her visions no longer worked when it came to her. More likely, Alice was just intuitive, her wicked grin proof of her knack for reading a room—and Bella's not-so-subtle innuendo. Still, the thought of anyone witnessing what was about to happen, even through some freaky magical mind vision, made Bella's stomach twist slightly.
Not that it would stop her. Edward was hers, and after the time they'd spent apart, she had no intention of holding back. The forest stretched endlessly ahead of them, inviting and wild. Bella tuned into the feel of Edward's hand in hers, his strength steady and reassuring, as her anticipation grew. Laughter spilled from her lips, mingling with Edward's as they wove deeper into the trees, the cool air rushing past, the sheer thrill of what was to come vibrating between them.
They ran for miles, their footsteps blending seamlessly with the rustling forest around them. Bella relished Edward's presence at her side, stealing a glance at him to see his face alight with a wide, genuine smile. After all that had occurred in the past two days, this—running together, free and unburdened—was exactly what she needed.
Eventually, they raced up the side of a mountain, the steep incline no match for their inhuman strength and speed. As they reached the peak, the world unfolded before them, the horizon stretching endlessly beneath the open sky. The day was still beautiful, the sun hanging low with several hours of daylight remaining. Up here, its gentle warmth bathed them, the rays golden and soft—a stark contrast to the unrelenting brilliance of the sun she had endured in space.
Bella hopped gracefully onto a massive boulder, patting the spot beside her to invite Edward to join her. The crisp mountain air brushed against her skin, carrying with it a sense of serenity. They hadn't had a moment alone like this since arriving at the Cullen house, and before anything else, she really wanted to talk with him.
"How are you, Edward? Really?" Her voice was soft, but her gaze was steady as she turned to him. "Now that we're truly alone, I can finally ask—how has your reunion been with Carlisle and Esme?"
Edward settled beside her, his hand instinctively finding hers. His thumb traced slow, soothing circles over her skin as he gazed out at the vast expanse before them. "It's been... really nice." His tone was reflective as he continued, "Seeing them again after all this time—there aren't words for it. I finally got to say everything I've been holding onto for the past ninety years, and it felt... freeing. Like a weight I didn't even realize I was carrying has been lifted."
He turned to her, his gaze warm and sincere. "I think it was good for Carlisle, too. To know I'm alive, that I'm okay—it's something he needed as much as I did." His lips curved into a faint smile. "And Esme... she welcomed me like I'd never left. It's comforting, knowing that kind of love doesn't fade, no matter how much time passes."
Bella squeezed his hand gently, her heart swelling at the raw honesty in his voice. After everything he had endured, his words were a poignant reminder of what truly mattered. Yet, as much as they inspired her, a quiet worry began to stir. What she was about to ask weighed heavily on her mind. She could understand if Edward wanted to stay with the Cullens—it would make sense after so much time apart. But the thought of their newfound relationship becoming tangled in the dynamics of a large family left her uneasy.
Her voice was soft but steady as she spoke her mind. "What are you thinking for the future, Edward? Do you want to stay with the Cullens?"
Edward's expression softened, his lips curving into a gentle smile as his head shook almost reflexively. "No." His tone was warm but resolute. "It's been amazing seeing them again—better than I could have imagined. But what I really want, Bella, is to be with you. Wherever you go, I want to go." His hand tightened around hers, his steady gaze meeting hers as he added with quiet sincerity, "I want to be with you, Bella. Always."
Relief flooded her, and she let out a long breath, her shoulders relaxing. Without hesitation, she leaned into him, her arms wrapping around him as she pressed her forehead to his shoulder. "That's so good to hear," she murmured, her voice thick with emotion. "That's exactly what I want too. I'm more than happy to visit the Cullens whenever we want, but I don't want to live here."
She leaned back slightly to meet his eyes, her expression earnest. "I feel like I'm still in the nomad phase of my life—going wherever the desire pulls me. Now it's not just me, though. It's us." Her lips curved into a smile as her fingers brushed lightly against his. "I want to have those adventures with you, Edward. Wherever our desires take us."
His answering smile was radiant, his gaze brimming with warmth. In that moment, Bella felt her worries dissolve completely. They were on the same page, their future stretched out before them, limitless and theirs to shape.
"That sounds absolutely perfect, Bella. Let's see the world together." Edward's voice was steady, but his eyes shimmered with a happiness that seemed almost fragile, as though he couldn't quite believe it was real. The thought of exploring the world with her by his side felt like a dream—a dream so vivid and perfect that a flicker of doubt crept into his mind. What if this was just a cruel trick of his imagination, and he was still trapped in that dungeon, his mind conjuring fantasies to escape the endless dark?
The shadow of his past threatened to tighten its grip, but before it could take hold, Bella leaned forward, her hand cupping his cheek, her touch grounding him. Then her lips met his.
The kiss was gentle at first, her soft warmth pressing against him, but it deepened quickly, an electric current sparking between them. Her mouth parted, inviting him in, and he eagerly followed, their tongues meeting in a dance that was both playful and full of need. The world around them faded; there was only Bella—her taste, her scent, the undeniable reality of her presence.
No, she was real. This was real. There was no way he could ever invent the exquisite sensation of their mouths moving together, the heat building between them. Bella's hands slid into his hair, her fingers threading through the soft strands, pulling him closer. Edward felt the last vestiges of doubt dissolve, replaced by an overwhelming sense of certainty.
He broke the kiss only when the need to look into her eyes became too strong to ignore. "You're everything, Bella," he murmured, his forehead resting against hers. His voice was a little rough, but it carried a truth he could no longer hold back. "And this—us—it's all I'll ever need."
Hearing Edward's words ignited a need in Bella so fierce it left no room for restraint. Her breathing became labored, her body already responding as she faced him. "Oh, God, Edward," she murmured, her voice low and laced with heat. "I need you. And I've been thinking… we've never really done it like true vampires." Her lips curled into a teasing smile as she added, "I know you were holding back in that hotel room—even if we did end up destroying the room anyway. But now? I want you to take me. Hard. Don't hold back this time. You don't need to worry... I won't break." The mischievous gleam in her eyes belied the seriousness of her words. "What do you think? Is that something you'd like to try?"
She didn't miss the way Edward's grin spread across his face, his eyes darkening with an unmistakable hunger… for her. He didn't need to say a word, but when he finally spoke, his voice was a low, seductive rumble. "I think we might be able to try that."
His hands moved to her blouse, fingers deft and eager, but Bella caught his wrists, stopping him mid-motion. "Not so fast, mister," she teased, her tone playful but firm. "These are our only clothes, and I don't think I know the Cullens well enough to go waltzing back in nothing but my birthday suit." Her brow arched as a wicked smirk tugged at her lips. "I think I've already given Emmett enough jack-off fantasies, and I really don't want to piss Rosalie off. Let's get naked quickly and stash our clothes somewhere safe so we can at least look somewhat presentable when we head back."
Edward nodded, his grin sharp with anticipation, and the two began to undress in silence. The air between them crackled with unspoken desire, a charged excitement building with every passing second. Bella's fingers moved first, slipping beneath the hem of her shirt and pulling it over her head. The fabric caught slightly on her hair before falling to the ground, leaving her flawless skin exposed for Edward's eyes alone.
Edward's gaze locked onto her, trailing over her bare skin with a quiet hunger. Without a bra, her breasts stood perfect and full, her pale skin almost glowing in the golden light. A faint breeze brushed against her, teasing her nipples into firm, taut peaks. She couldn't help but notice how Edward's lips parted, his breath catching as though he'd forgotten how to breathe.
Bella's movements slowed, not from hesitation but to draw out the exquisite tension between them. Her hands slid to her waistband, hooking her thumbs into her pants and panties, and she pushed them down her hips and thighs in one fluid motion. Long, sculpted legs and a neatly trimmed patch of dark curls were revealed as she stepped free of the fabric. Standing before Edward, unashamed and entirely his, her lips curled into a faint smirk as she caught his rapt expression. The raw hunger in his eyes sent a thrill through her, igniting a fire deep within.
Edward swallowed hard, his hands moving to the buttons of his shirt. He worked quickly, each flick of his fingers revealing more of his alabaster skin, the taut muscles of his chest and abdomen rippling slightly with each motion.
Bella's eyes drank him in, marveling at the raw power and grace that radiated from him. As his shirt fell to the ground, she couldn't stop herself from tracing the lines of his body with her gaze, from the curve of his shoulders to the dip of his hips.
When Edward finally pushed his pants down, Bella's breath hitched. His arousal stood proud and undeniable, and the sight sent a rush of heat pooling low in her belly.
Edward caught the way her gaze lingered, and a flicker of pride crossed his face, mingling with the deep, unrelenting hunger in his eyes.
For a moment, neither of them moved, the tension between them so thick it felt tangible. Bella could see every subtle shift in Edward's expression—the tightening of his jaw, the way his gaze roamed her curves, lingering on the swell of her breasts and the softness of her core. But it wasn't just lust she saw in his eyes; it was love, pure and overwhelming, as though he still couldn't believe she was real.
Bella bent to gather their discarded clothes, folding them neatly before tucking them beneath a heavy rock to keep them safe. Her movements were swift, and she could feel Edward's gaze on her the entire time. The weight of his attention, fully focused on her nude form, sent a shiver of anticipation coursing through her, igniting a fire she hadn't known could burn so fiercely. Straightening, her heart swelling as she took him in—Edward, standing bare before her, every inch of him glorious and wholly hers
As Bella's gaze roamed over Edward's glorious figure bathed in sunlight, a new thought struck her, igniting a mischievous smile. In an instant, the sun's brilliance transformed them both, their skin sparkling like countless diamonds scattered across a perfect canvas. The effect was mesmerizing—otherworldly—and yet, utterly natural for them.
Her eyes drank him in, starting at the sharp lines of his jaw and trailing down the sculpted planes of his chest, where the sunlight danced over every defined muscle. The sparkles only seemed to intensify as her gaze wandered lower, following the taut perfection of his abdomen until it landed on... Oh, God. A glittering dick. A wave of heat bloomed across her skin as she took in the absurdity and sheer perfection of it. Her dreams, it seemed, had come true in ways she never could have imagined.
She shifted her stance slightly, the curve of her lips deepening into a smirk as her eyes met his again. Edward stood there, unapologetic and impossibly beautiful, every inch of him illuminated like a deity carved from light. A thrill coursed through her, setting her nerves alight. "If we're going to do it like true vampires, we might as well have the whole effect." Her voice carried a teasing confidence as her gaze lingered on him. "Don't you agree?"
The sight of Bella moving toward him was mesmerizing, her confidence shining through in every step she took. Edward's entire body tensed in anticipation, the faint smirk on her lips igniting a fire deep within him. The sunlight danced across her bare skin, highlighting the curves he had grown to worship, and his breathing stilled as her eyes dropped lower.
He felt her gaze on him—intense and full of intent—as her fingers reached out and curled around him. The first touch was electric, her soft hand sliding slowly along his length. A low growl rumbled in his chest, involuntary, as his body responded immediately to her touch. He couldn't take his eyes off her, the way her movements were precise yet teasing, as though she were savoring every second.
Edward's vision tunneled, focusing solely on Bella as she dropped gracefully to her knees in one fluid movement. The sun caught her hair, the golden light framing her like a vision. Her gaze locked onto his, piercing, as her lips parted. The first brush of her mouth sent a shockwave through him, his hands clenching into fists at his sides to keep from grabbing her. She was warm and soft and absolutely devastating, the sensation of her lips and tongue wrapping around him rendering him utterly powerless.
Bella moved with a rhythm that felt both practiced and intuitive, each motion sending waves of sensation coursing through Edward's body. His gaze remained fixed on her, captivated by the sight of her—so beautiful, so eager—that it stole every coherent thought from his mind. His fingers twitched, aching to bury themselves in her hair, but he restrained himself, wanting nothing to break the spell of watching her. Each pass of her mouth overwhelmed his senses, the purposeful and playful movements drawing him deeper into the moment, leaving him utterly undone.
The sunlight glinted off his skin, and for brief, fleeting moments, Edward glimpsed his glittering arousal disappearing into her mouth as she bobbed her head in a steady, purposeful rhythm. His hips jerked slightly, his control slipping under the increasing pressure of her mouth. The way she moved—with her eyes never leaving his—transformed the act into something profoundly intimate, a connection that consumed him completely.
When her hands slid around to grab his ass, pulling him closer, Edward's head fell back, a low groan escaping his lips. The heat of her mouth, the relentless pull of her lips—it was getting to be too much. He felt the tension building rapidly, his control unraveling in the most exquisite way possible.
And then it happened—a release so powerful it left him trembling. His hands found her shoulders, gripping tightly as he felt himself spill into her. Bella didn't flinch, her lips remaining firm around him as she drank him down, her eagerness only heightened, matching the intensity of his release. The intimacy of it, the way she seemed to take pleasure in his pleasure, sent a final shudder through him.
When Bella finally pulled back, her lips glistening, her expression was one of pure satisfaction. Edward's chest heaved, though he didn't need to breathe, and as he gazed down at her—radiant and utterly his—he couldn't help but think she was the most extraordinary creature he'd ever known.
Bella couldn't tear her eyes away from Edward, his arousal still hard and unrelenting even after spilling into her mouth. The sight sent another wave of heat rushing through her, her body already aching for more. She licked her lips slowly, savoring the taste that lingered, and couldn't resist leaning back in to ensure his glittering rod was spotless. After she was positive she'd done her job well, she leaned back to see the satisfaction in his face. When Edward spoke, his voice was low and full of promise, igniting the fire within her into an uncontrollable blaze.
"So you want it hard, do you?"
She nodded, unable to hide her wicked grin as she wiped the back of her arm across her mouth. The hunger in his eyes made her anticipation build as he led her to the massive boulder they'd been sitting on earlier. Without hesitation, she hopped up, lying back against the cool, smooth surface of the stone. She spread her legs wide, offering herself to him, her gaze locked on his as she waited.
A shiver ran through her as Edward's eyes roamed over her with an intensity that seemed to touch her skin. His gaze zeroed in on her most sensitive spot, and the anticipation coiled tightly in her core. When his fingers brushed along the soft skin of her inner thigh, a surge of pleasure shot through her, leaving her muscles tense and her thoughts scattered. Then, as his touch grazed the delicate slit between her legs, a soft gasp escaped her lips. His fingers were gentle yet teasing, tracing her folds with a precision that made her hips shift toward him, drawn to the promise in his touch.
"Edward..." Her voice was barely more than a breath, her body already straining for him.
He didn't reply, he was focused entirely on what he was doing to her. The slight smirk that tugged at his lips only added to the tension coiling within her. When he finally climbed on top of her, positioning himself between her legs, Bella felt like she might explode from need. His presence was overwhelming, every inch of him radiating raw power and devotion.
Edward aligned himself with her, the head of his arousal brushing against her slick entrance. She bit her lip, her hands gripping the edges of the boulder as he moved, teasing her mercilessly. He slid his length along her folds, the friction sending sparks through her entire body. Each stroke made her hips rise instinctively, seeking more, her body pleading for him to push deeper.
She looked up at him, her gaze meeting his, and she could see the hunger in his eyes mirrored her own. He leaned forward slightly, his body brushing hers, and in one swift motion, he plunged into her, filling her completely. Bella cried out, her scream reverberating over the mountaintop. The sheer power of him, the way he stretched and filled her perfectly, made her head spin.
Edward flexed his hips with a slow, deliberate motion, sending shockwaves of pleasure rippling through her core. Their eyes met again, and with a single nod of agreement, they let go of all restraint.
"Holy fuck," Bella screamed, her voice raw and trembling as her climax tore through her like a tidal wave, obliterating every coherent thought. Her body convulsed, her back arching as pleasure consumed her. The intensity of it was almost too much, yet not nearly enough, her entire world narrowing to the feeling of Edward buried deep inside her, his body moving in perfect synchronicity with hers.
As the overwhelming waves of her orgasm rippled through her, instinct took over. Her hand shot to Edward's neck, pulling him closer, and without hesitation, her teeth sank into his skin. The taste of his venom mixed with hers was intoxicating—on par with the euphoric rush of human blood, yet wholly unique. Different, but perfect in its own way. The potent, electric cocktail sent a fresh surge of ecstasy coursing through her veins, heightening her pleasure to dizzying heights. She felt him shudder against her, his own release flooding into her with a force that mirrored her own, intensifying the bond between them.
They stayed connected, locked together in their shared euphoria. Her mouth remained sealed to the curve of his neck as she pushed her venom into him, a primal expression of the love coursing through her. Yet, as her instincts shifted, Bella began to savor the act of sucking their mingled venom back into her mouth. The flavor was heady and addictive, a perfect fusion of their beings that sent a thrill through her and left her craving more.
A fleeting thought crossed her mind—was this normal? Char had never mentioned anything like it. Then again, nothing about what she and Edward shared could ever be called normal. What they had was theirs alone—utterly unique.
Finally, Bella pulled back, her lips parting from his neck with lingering softness. Her tongue swept over the mark she'd left, soothing the area as her venom began its rapid work of healing the marks left by her teeth. The sweetness of their combined essence still clung to her tongue, and without hesitation, she leaned forward, capturing Edward's mouth in a kiss. The act was more than just intimate—it was a continuation of their bond, as she shared their mingled essence with him.
As her control returned, Bella's gaze met Edward's, his expression reflecting absolute adoration and wonder. In that moment, she knew with unwavering certainty that they were exactly where they belonged—together, bound by something far deeper than words could ever capture.
Bella's laughter echoed through the stillness of the shattered mountaintop, rich and brimming with exhilaration. She glanced around at the chaos they had wrought, marveling at the sheer absurdity of their current position. They were almost embedded in the rubble of what had once been a massive boulder, now reduced to jagged chunks and scattered shards that littered the mountaintop like the remnants of a celestial collision.
The destruction wasn't just noticeable—it was catastrophic. The mountaintop had been transformed into a war zone of passion. Stone shards littered the landscape, some driven deep into the surrounding earth, while others were scattered far beyond where their bodies had collided in their fervent frenzy. Cracks spiderwebbed through the remaining rock formations nearby, a stark testament to the relentless onslaught their bodies had unleashed.
Bella shifted slightly, her back brushing against a particularly sharp hunk of stone, and she couldn't help but laugh again. "We really didn't hold back, did we?" she murmured, though her tone carried no regret—only pride and satisfaction.
Edward, his body still flush against hers, gave a low chuckle that rumbled through his chest like thunder. His arms encased her protectively, though his grip remained possessive, as if even now he couldn't let her go. "You didn't want me to hold back," he teased, his voice low and filled with the same fire that had driven them to obliterate their surroundings.
Bella tilted her head back, her hair dusted with stone powder, and replayed the frenzy in her mind. It had started with her lying on the boulder's smooth surface, Edward poised above her, his movements controlled yet powerful as he drove into her. But control had quickly given way to sheer, unrestrained passion. The moment he'd gripped her hips and pulled her closer, his thrusts had become harder, deeper, more primal—each one sending tremors through the stone beneath them.
The boulder had cracked first—a deep, resonant sound that barely registered above their ragged breaths and the slap of skin against skin. Bella had felt the vibrations beneath her, but instead of stopping, it had only fueled her desire. She'd flipped them, straddling Edward and grinding against him with a ferocity that matched his own. His hands had gripped her hips so tightly she was sure there would have been bruises if her skin weren't as unyielding as his.
By the time Edward had flipped her onto her stomach, pulling her up onto her knees and driving into her from behind, the boulder had begun to crumble in earnest. Stone shards flew in every direction, sharp fragments ricocheting off their bodies without leaving so much as a scratch. The air had filled with the sound of rocks splitting, crumbling, and crashing down around them, yet neither of them had noticed or cared. Their focus was solely on each other—on the way their bodies moved together in perfect, feral harmony.
As their fuck fest continued, they'd shifted positions countless times—his body dominating hers, hers overwhelming his—all while the moutaintop disintegrated around them. By the time they'd both reached the peak of their pleasure, there was nothing left but rubble, the force of their climaxes sending the last remnants of the stone scattering like dust on the wind.
Now, as Bella lay entwined with Edward amidst the ruins, she couldn't help but feel a deep sense of satisfaction. The destruction surrounding them wasn't just evidence of their physical power—it was a testament to the depth of their passion, to the bond they shared that defied all logic and restraint.
She turned her head, her gaze locking with Edward's. His dark eyes burned with intensity, a satisfied smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "I think we might need to find a new spot next time," he quipped, his tone teasing but tinged with pride.
Bella's grin widened as she brushed a stone fragment from his hair. "Yes, next time, maybe we aim for a sturdier mountain," she replied, her voice playful, laced with just enough promise to make his smirk deepen.
Their laughter lingered in the air, a soft counterpoint to the chaos surrounding them. An intoxicating sense of freedom washed over Bella as she curled into Edward's embrace, her body still humming with the aftershocks of what they'd just shared. She pressed her cheek to his chest, the smoothness of his skin grounding her in the moment. If he'd had a heartbeat, she imagined it would be racing right now, as wild and unrestrained as her own emotions.
"You," she murmured, her voice filled with awe, "are fucking incredible." Her lips curved into a lazy smile as she tilted her head to look up at him, her fingers tracing light patterns across his chest. "I mean, I knew it would be good, but I didn't know it could be... that. What we just did—it's beyond anything I ever imagined." A hint of playful mischief lit her eyes as she continued, "Truthfully, I've watched a lot of humans having sex on the internet," she admitted, her tone teasing. "But they've got nothing on us. Honestly, I almost feel bad for them."
Edward's chest shook with quiet laughter as he held her closer, his ruby eyes glinting with amusement while he surveyed the wreckage of their passion. They were nearly entombed in the debris of the once-massive boulder, the jagged remnants piled high around them like the aftermath of a natural disaster. "I never imagined it could be like this either." Warm humor laced his words as his gaze returned to hers. "Though, I'm starting to see why this sort of thing might require us to be outdoors."
Bella's laughter joined his, soft and rich. "Yeah," she teased, nudging his side playfully. "I don't think Esme would appreciate us destroying the Cullen house."
Edward's expression softened, but a flicker of confusion soon crossed his face. His brows lifted slightly as he looked down at her, an amused intrigue glinting in his eyes. "Wait a second." His tone carried genuine fascination. "Are you telling me humans actually film themselves having sex and put it on the internet? That's... a thing?"
Bella's laughter bubbled up, rich and unrestrained, as she leaned into Edward's chest. "You would not believe what you can find on there," her tone tinged with amusement. "I mean, we're vampires, but I swear there are sites that would have even you running away screaming. Just a friendly warning, though—you should be very careful when visiting any strange porn sites. You don't want to catch a virus."
Edward's brow furrowed, confusion flickering across his face as he tilted his head slightly. "A virus?" he echoed, his tone laced with genuine puzzlement. "But we're vampires. We can't get sick."
Bella dropped her face against his chest, trying to suppress the laughter bubbling up inside her. It wasn't his fault. "No, not us," she managed, composing herself before lifting her head and smiling at him endearingly. "I meant the computer. If you visit the wrong sites, they'll probably infect your computer with a virus. It's like crippling it—everything slows down, crashes, or just stops working altogether. Trust me, it's not fun to deal with."
Edward's lips quirked into a half-smile, though his confusion didn't entirely fade. "I see." The words came slowly as he pieced the information together. Then his smile deepened, taking on a wicked edge. "Well, I suppose I'll steer clear of those sites then. Not that I'd need them." His voice dipped, heat suffusing his tone. "Why would I bother with anything else when I have you—the most beautiful and alluring creature to ever walk this Earth—ready and willing to fulfill every desire I'll ever have?"
Bella's smirk grew, her chest tightening at the weight of his gaze. "Really... is that what you have? Why, you must be the luckiest vampire in the world." Her voice dropped to a sultry murmur. "You just remember that entitles me to have you fulfill every desire... every fantasy... every wanton need I might have." She leaned into him, her breath brushing his ear as she whispered seductively, "And I have so, so many."
Edward swallowed reflexively as he felt his arousal hardening to an almost painful degree. He exhaled slowly, trying to collect himself. "Good," he murmured. "Because we both have a lot of time to make up for."
With a soft exhale, Bella pushed herself upright, using the larger shards of rubble for leverage. The sunlight caught on her skin as she raised herself out of the debris pile, her gaze falling to Edward, still sprawled below her. His body was a study in perfection—muscled, powerful, and utterly relaxed—but her eyes couldn't help but drift lower. His arousal was still prominent, rigid and unapologetic, and the sight sent a flicker of heat through her all over again.
It took every ounce of restraint not to drop back down and start all over again. But reason won out, if only barely. They were still staying at the Cullen house, and it would be rude not to spend time with them while they were visiting. With a knowing smirk, she extended her hand toward him.
Edward took it without hesitation, his grip firm as she helped him to his feet. The way his eyes lingered on her, dark and smoldering, made it clear that their moment wasn't over. This was merely a pause, a brief reprieve before they inevitably gave in to their desires once more.
Standing this close to Edward, with his current state being what it was, was proving almost impossible for Bella to handle. Her gaze kept slipping, despite her best efforts, and every time her eyes caught sight of Edward Jr., her thoughts spiraled into unhelpful—and highly distracting—territory. A soft giggle escaped her lips as she shook her head, as if trying to clear it. When she finally spoke, her tone carried a teasing edge.
"Seriously, Edward." Her lips curled into a mischievous smirk. "Could you try thinking about something—anything—that isn't erotic for a minute? That... thing is making it impossible for me to think straight. Show a little consideration for others, will you?"
Edward's gaze followed hers, dropping briefly to his still rigid arousal before lifting to meet her eyes again. His crooked smile spread slowly across his face, only enhancing his devilishly handsome features. Hey," he replied, his tone light but laced with a flicker of heat. "You're the one standing there looking like that." His eyes roamed over her unabashedly before locking onto hers. "It's not exactly easy to... behave when you're naked and glowing like some goddess. Honestly, it's got a mind of its own—I can't control it."
Bella arched a brow, crossing her arms in mock indignation, though the laughter bubbling in her chest threatened to spill over. "A goddess, huh?" she quipped, tilting her head slightly. "Flattery isn't going to get you off the hook, buddy. That thing is a menace, and you know it."
Huffing softly, Bella spun on her heels, her bare feet crunching over the scattered debris as she walked to the rock where their clothes lay tucked beneath. She retrieved Edward's clothes first, handing them to him with a slight reluctance she didn't even try to hide. The thought of him covering up that glorious body felt like a crime against nature. He really should just stay naked forever, she mused, her gaze lingering a moment too long. Realizing the direction of her thoughts, Bella gave herself a firm mental shake and forced her eyes away, focusing instead on her own pile of clothes.
As she dressed quickly, her fingers working automatically, she reveled in the phantom sensations still lingering in her body—it was like she could still feel Edward Jr. filling her, stretching her, pounding into her with such force that even now, her toes curled at the memory. God, she loved sex.
When she turned around, Edward was already dressed. She couldn't help but take a moment to admire how effortlessly he pulled off his look. Whether naked or fully clothed, he looked amazing. His smirk hinted that he knew exactly where her thoughts were wandering. Bella ignored it—barely—and walked over to him, reaching for his hand. Their fingers intertwined naturally, the feel of his hand in hers grounding her.
Together, they stood in silence, surveying the destruction they'd wrought. The air was still, the weight of their earlier passion etched into the broken landscape. Bella's gaze traveled over the cracks radiating out from the impact zones, some reaching deep into the earth, others scarring the surrounding rock formations.
She tilted her head, the corner of her mouth quirking up. "What do you think people will say when they come across this?" Her voice was light, but there was a glint of mischief in her eyes.
Edward's lips twitched into a smile, his thumb brushing against hers. "I'm sure they'll have theories. Earthquake, meteor strike. Whatever it is, humans always love a good mystery."
Bella chuckled, her laughter soft and rich. "Just another one of Earth's unexplained mysteries..." she murmured, her thoughts beginning to drift. Suddenly, an idea struck, and she turned to Edward, curiosity lighting up her gaze. "Hey, what about other mysteries—like the crop circles or, I don't know, Bigfoot? Do you think stuff like that could've been... vampire-related?"
Edward's smile widened, his expression thoughtful as he glanced at her. "You do realize I have no idea what you're talking about, right?"
Bella grinned, giving his hand a playful squeeze. "Don't worry, you'll understand it all soon enough."
Edward exhaled a quiet sigh of relief as he felt himself finally softening, the tightness in his pants easing as they began their descent down the mountain at a leisurely, human pace. Walking around with that kind of... distraction while fully dressed had been annoying, to say the least. He cast a sidelong glance at Bella, who seemed completely at ease, her face lit with a smile that made her look radiant against the backdrop of the wilderness.
Her carefree demeanor helped him relax and stay present in the moment with her. It also gave him the opening he'd hoped for to bring up something he'd been thinking about. With her focus seemingly unburdened, he decided now was the perfect time to broach the subject.
"I've been thinking," he began, "about the idea of you meeting with the president. Have you given it any serious thought yet?" His gaze shifted to her as they walked, watching the way her expression subtly changed as she considered his words. "I've been running it through my head a lot, and I really believe it could be a good idea. You enjoy helping people—it's obvious. And from what I've seen, it's something you're passionate about. If being Starshield is something you're planning to continue, having an established relationship with the government could be beneficial to both you and them."
Bella glanced up at him, her steps slowing just slightly as she digested his words. His reasoning was sound, and she couldn't deny the truth of it. The two times she had stepped into the role of Starshield had profoundly affected her. She couldn't shake how right it had felt to make such a tangible difference in people's lives. A normal nine-to-five job just didn't appeal to her now that she had a way to do what she loved—something she'd once believed could never become a reality.
A soft smile curved across her lips as she turned her gaze forward again, the sunlight playing across her features. "You're right," she admitted, her voice thoughtful but laced with conviction. "I do want to meet with him. I think it's important—for a lot of reasons. It'll give me a chance to explain myself and set some boundaries. Not to reveal everything, of course," she added quickly, glancing at him with a small smirk. "I'm not planning to announce that I'm a vampire, but I think it's important they know enough to stop them from poking their noses where they shouldn't."
She exhaled a soft laugh, shaking her head slightly. "I'd rather be friendly with them—become allies, if you will—than have the government trying to figure me out on their own. That kind of curiosity could easily create a sticky situation for everyone."
Edward nodded, his expression easing into one of quiet approval. "That's exactly what I was hoping you'd say. If you're going to keep doing this—and I know you are—it's better to be upfront and set the tone of who you are and what your intentions are. Make it clear you're here to help, not to be feared."
Bella's smile widened, her hand brushing against his as they continued their descent. "You know," her voice soft and teasing, "you're not bad at this whole supportive partner thing."
Edward chuckled, his lips curving into a smile. "Well, that's good to know." He slipped an arm around her shoulders, giving her a brief squeeze of support before pressing a kiss to the top of her head. When she glanced up at him with an appreciative smile, he added, "When would you like to leave? Their invitation was for next Monday."
"How about tomorrow night?" Bella suggested. "That'll give us another day to visit, and then we can see a few sights on the way to D.C. Or... did you want to travel by plane?"
"Tomorrow night works perfectly," Edward replied, adding, "And I'd much rather run. I don't think you can imagine how incredible it feels to stretch my legs after being walled up in that cell for so long."
"Run it is, then." A grin tugged at Bella's lips as she caught Edward's accompanying smile. "We can even start now, heading back to the Cullen's. Alice is still waiting to talk to me, after all. I wonder what made her want to come to us when she could've just as easily called?" Her brow furrowed slightly as thoughts of her eccentric little friend surfaced. With Alice, it could really be anything.
Bella's expression shifted, a spark of interest lighting her eyes. "Isn't it strange, though? That Alice can see the future. Did she say or hint at anything that might be coming before I showed up?"
"No, she kept pretty tight-lipped about the future," Edward replied, shaking his head slightly as the events of the previous night filtered through his mind. "And with the way Emmett was bombarding her with questions, it's a miracle she didn't snap at him." The memory of how events unfolded played out again, thankfully edged with much more amusement than he'd felt at the time. "We actually had quite the introduction to Jasper and Alice. The storm last night was brutal—the kind that rattled the windows and made everything feel... eerie. When the power went out, Emmett decided it was the perfect time to tell a scary story."
His smile deepened, a glimmer of humor sparking in his eyes. "Right as he finished, there was a knock at the front door. The timing couldn't have been more perfect—or terrifying. Poor Esme nearly jumped out of her skin when she opened the door and saw Jasper standing there. The rain combined with the lightning behind him just added to the effect. But then Alice appeared, practically bouncing out from behind him, and somehow managed to calm everyone down in record time."
Hearing the story for the first time, Bella couldn't help but grin, the whole thing felt just a little too convenient. "And Emmett was telling the story of the Pale Rider?" she asked, curiosity coloring her tone.
Edward's smile widened as he recalled the scene. "Yeah. He was really getting into it—building the suspense, adding all the creepy details…"
Bella's laughter bubbled up, rich and full. "Edward." She shook her head in amusement, her tone playful. "I hate to break it to you, but I have a feeling Alice was having a little fun with you guys last night. If I had to bet, I'd say she orchestrated the whole thing through her visions." She paused, her smirk deepening as she delivered the punchline. "Because here's the thing—Jasper is the Pale Rider."
Edward froze mid-step, his brows knitting together as confusion swept over his features. "Wait—what?"
Her grin only grew. She turned to face him fully, clearly enjoying his reaction. "My friend Peter made up that story over a century ago," she explained, her voice laced with humor. "He spread it far and wide, and nomad gossip turned it into legend. Of course, he made Jasper into this larger-than-life, mythical figure, embellishing every detail for maximum effect. But," she added, her tone softening as a hint of reverence entered her voice, "the root of it? That's all true. Jasper is one of the most dangerous and feared vampires in the world. He earned every scar, every part of his reputation during the Southern Vampire Wars."
Bella stepped closer, slipping her arms around Edward's waist as she tilted her head back to meet his gaze. "Peter told me the Pale Rider story not long after I met him and Char." Her smile turned fond, a soft warmth lighting her expression. "He'll probably be thrilled to know Emmett is giving his creation its due."
Edward's expression shifted, a mix of amazement and dawning understanding as he pieced it together. "Wow," he murmured, his voice low. "We had no idea. I mean, of course, we noticed his scars, but everything seemed to calm down so quickly. And then Alice explained how they were friends of yours, and when she revealed she could see the future, well, that pretty much stole everyone's attention."
Bella smiled knowingly as she looped her arm through his, gently nudging him forward as they resumed walking. "That sounds about right."
As they walked, her mind, however, turned back to Jasper and the thought of sparring with him again. Their battles in Texas all those years ago had been epic. She grinned to herself, knowing just how much she had learned and improved since then. If they fought now, she just might win… but she decided against it. Maybe sometime when they were alone. If she was finally able to defeat him, she certainly didn't want to do it with others watching and tarnish his street cred.
Soon, they were streaking through the forest, seeing who could reach the Cullen house first, their laughter mingling with the sound of rustling leaves and snapping twigs. Edward's teasing smile flashed as he glanced at Bella, easily matching her pace. But with a few miles left to go, the playful glint in his eyes sharpened, and in an instant, he surged ahead, leaving her behind in his wake.
Bella growled under her breath, determination flaring in her chest. She pushed harder, her strides lengthening as the wind whipped past her, but it was no use. Edward was already gone.
When she stepped into the Cullen house, she found Edward sprawled casually on the sofa, his signature goofy grin firmly in place. He looked completely at ease, as if he'd been waiting for her all day. "Took you long enough," he teased, his tone light but brimming with playful smugness.
Bella huffed, her expression caught somewhere between amusement and mock annoyance. "You must have cheated... somehow," she shot back, her lips curving into a wry smile as she winked at him and strode past, heading straight for Alice.
Alice was perched on a chair in the dining room, her posture relaxed but her sharp eyes fixed on what appeared to be an intense chess match between Carlisle and Jasper.
Before Bella could reach her, Alice turned her head, focusing on her with a childlike smile that lit up her face. Bella returned the gesture, stopping a few feet away. "Hey, Alice, you wanted to talk?"
Alice knew Bella and Edward were on their way back the moment her visions vanished. The peculiar stillness that accompanied Bella's presence was something she had never quite grown used to, but she wouldn't trade it for anything if it meant having even a small part in Bella's life.
Bella's voice carried through the house moments later, and Alice sprang to her feet with effortless grace, her excitement lighting up her delicate features. Jasper barely glanced up from the chessboard but smirked faintly as she leaned in to press a quick kiss to his cheek. Her fingers brushed his shoulder—a fleeting gesture of affection that grounded her and, as always, calmed her nerves.
As she turned toward Bella, Alice wondered for about the millionth time if what she was about to do was truly the right thing. She'd lived her entire life by the unspoken rule: never influence the future unless the situation was dire. This felt like it flew in the face of that principle. But she had convinced herself that she had always done what she was about to do, and that was why her visions had unfolded the way they had. And if that was the case, she wasn't influencing the future; she was setting it on its destined course.
"Sure." Alice's introspection lasted for less than a second as excitement bubbled beneath the surface. She couldn't deny she was looking forward to this. The thought of playing even the smallest role in something that would echo through history filled her with a quiet thrill. "Can we take a walk outside?"
As Bella and Alice walked away from the Cullen house, twilight was approaching, and after her time away with Edward, she had to admit—it had been a particularly good day. Glancing sideways at Alice, Bella couldn't help but ask, "So, I guess you saw the whole Starshield thing decades ago? Is that why you acted so weird when we first met?"
Alice's grin spread across her face, a mixture of amusement and relief. She had been holding so much in for so many years, and it felt like a relief to finally share even a little part of it with someone else. She was still amazed that she was talking with Starshield—let alone that she was actually friends with her hero. She had experienced so many visions of Starshield throughout most of her vampire life that she had placed her on a pedestal akin to all the other famous figures throughout history.
"Yeah," Alice admitted, her voice light but tinged with nostalgia. "I knew that someday you would arrive; I just didn't know when. I used to have so many visions of you. But back then, I knew what I was seeing was nothing like how life was at that time, so I figured I'd just have to wait it out. Some of my visions have stretched pretty far into the future, so I hope you're enjoying being Starshield." She grinned, winking at Bella.
"But you're right," Alice continued, her expression softening. "I was completely shocked when I saw you standing in front of me at Peter and Char's house. It was like watching a prophecy come to life. My visions had never hinted that I would actually know you someday."
A faraway look crossed Alice's face as she remembered that moment—the rush of emotions, the overwhelming sense of awe. Even now, the memory warmed her.
"And I assume you don't want to tell me anything about the future, correct?" Bella asked, her gaze resting on her petite friend, a teasing edge to her tone.
Alice tilted her head up to meet her friend's eyes, her signature grin softening into something more thoughtful. "No," she answered, her voice quiet but firm. "It's really best to let the future play out as it should. If I had something concrete—something of utmost importance—I'd absolutely tell you. But honestly? The visions I had of you were from so long ago, and who knows if anything I saw will ever come to pass."
Bella nodded in understanding. While still curious about what Alice might have seen, she respected her friend's convictions and chose not to pry further.
"I mean," Alice continued, a flicker of humor dancing in her eyes, "I never saw you saving the day in L.A. or your little jaunt into space, so clearly, I don't know everything." Her smile widened, admiration shining through her delicate features. "But I have seen you do so many amazing things over the years. And that's actually why I came to see you—I have something for you."
Reaching into her pocket with an almost ceremonial air, Alice pulled out a small zippered pouch and placed it carefully into Bella's hand, her expression briefly unreadable.
"What is this?" Bella asked, intrigued as she accepted the pouch. The material felt unusual under her fingers—soft, but with a strange durability that piqued her interest.
"I actually made it for you." Alice's tone was light, tinged with a hint of pride. "In most of my visions, you were wearing a mask—but it was nothing like the cheap one you've been using." Her smile widened. "Of course, in those visions, I never knew where the mask came from, but then it hit me—why couldn't I have given it to you all along?"
Alice's eyes sparkled as she watched Bella carefully unzip the pouch and pull out the mask. She watched Bella hold it, just staring at it, until a wide smile broke across her face.
Bella turned the mask over in her hands, her thumb brushing across the fabric's weave. Her fingers couldn't place the material—it was unlike anything she had ever felt before. As she studied the mask, it became obvious how much care Alice had poured into making it. The design stayed true to her original blue-and-gold color scheme, which she had grown fond of, but this version was sleeker and more refined. It was perfect in every way.
Alice's voice pulled her from her thoughts. "I made this one out of an incredibly durable material," she explained, her tone brimming with satisfaction. "It won't break unless you purposely try to destroy it. And I designed it to fit the contours of your face better than that other one." She gestured lightly toward the mask. "I think you'll be pleased. In my visions, this is the mask you were wearing far into the future."
Bella's gaze flicked back to the mask in her hands, the weight of Alice's words settling over her. She could easily picture herself as Starshield, donning this mask and stepping into whatever lay ahead. It felt... right.
Alice continued, her expression turning thoughtful. "I've also had visions of you saving people without a mask at all," she admitted, her voice softening. "But from the surroundings in those visions, I'm pretty sure that won't be happening anytime soon. I've always wondered if, by that point, vampires have come out to the human world. But honestly," she added with a small shrug, "there's no way to tell. My visions don't work like that."
Bella leaned in, wrapping her arms around Alice in a warm hug. "Thank you, Alice. I love it." Her voice was soft and filled with genuine appreciation. As she pulled back, her eyes dropped to the mask in her hands as she admitted, "I'd actually been thinking I needed to find something better, so this is perfect." She looked up, her smile bright and grateful. "You can be the first to see me wearing it."
With a playful smirk, Bella slipped the mask on. Immediately, she could tell Alice had been right. This mask fit far better than her old one; the contours molded perfectly to her features, and there were no gaps forming between the mask and her face as she moved. "How do I look?" Bella asked, her tone teasing as she struck an exaggerated superhero pose. Squaring her shoulders, she planted her hands firmly on her hips, lifting her head high as she gazed dramatically into an imaginary horizon.
Alice burst into laughter, the sound light and melodic as she clapped her hands together in delight. "You look amazing!" Her grin widened with approval, her eyes sparkling as she took in Starshield in person for the first time, looking exactly as she had appeared in her visions.
They started to walk back to the house, but Bella reached out, her hand landing gently on Alice's shoulder to stop her. "I know you don't want to tell me about the future," she began, her tone light but edged with genuine concern. "But there's one thing I need to know. Please tell me I never wore a costume or a cape in any of your visions."
She mentally crossed her fingers, silently praying her future self would never venture that far down the rabbit hole. The mere thought made her cringe—she knew she'd look absolutely ridiculous.
Alice's laughter rang out, bright and amused. "Fear not, Bella. I've never had a vision of you decked out in tight, colorful spandex with a billowing cape. It's only ever been just the mask."
"Phew." Bella let out an exaggerated sigh of relief, pretending to wipe sweat from her brow. "Alright, come on. Let's show off your handiwork to the others."
The rest of Bella and Edward's visit with the Cullens went smoothly. That evening, Alice and Jasper departed for their home in Montana, now with a whole new family to call friends. The Cullens left shortly after for their hunt in Idaho. Bella still couldn't fathom how they managed to stomach all that animal blood, let alone keep it down. The very thought made her shudder.
With the house empty, Bella and Edward seized the opportunity. They spent hours together in the guest room making love, and for the first time, they didn't break anything. Not a single piece of furniture met its untimely end—a victory they both silently celebrated.
The Cullens returned just before dawn, allowing Bella and Edward one final day to spend with everyone. They made the most of their time together visiting Rosalie's workshop, where she proudly showed off her latest projects. The gleaming cars and motorcycles were a testament to her exceptional skill and creativity. Bella was genuinely impressed, her gaze lingering longest on the motorcycles. The sleek designs stirred something in her, and for the first time, she entertained the idea of learning to ride one someday.
Throughout the day, Emmett couldn't resist giving his two cents on how Bella could improve as a superhero. One of her "biggest mistakes," according to him, was not lifting her hand when moving objects with her mind. "It's all about appearances," Emmett declared with conviction. "You gotta make it look like you're doing it, like... with effort. People love that kind of showmanship."
Bella quickly deduced that Emmett had confused her with a Jedi and somehow thought she was channeling the Force. She tried not to smirk too much at his suggestions, choosing not to argue. There was no point in explaining her powers to someone determined to make her the star of his personal superhero fantasy.
But what truly seemed to bother Emmett was her failure to trademark the name Starshield before making her public debut. "Do you even know how much money you're leaving on the table?" he asked, genuinely baffled. "The merch potential alone... T-shirts, action figures—hell, you could even have your own Starshield cereal. Come on, Bella—'Star-eeios!'"
Bella stifled a laugh and resisted the urge to roll her eyes. She didn't bother explaining that the whole point of the mask and name was anonymity—and registering Starshield with the Trademark Office would kind of defeat the purpose.
Near midnight, Bella and Edward knew it was time to depart. As Carlisle pulled back from the hug he'd given Edward, a smile spread across his face.
"Please know you're both welcome to visit anytime." The warmth in Carlisle's voice shone through, and as he glanced at Edward again, his tone took on a playful edge. "And Edward, try not to make it another ninety years before your next visit, alright?"
Edward gave a quiet laugh, nodding. "I'll do my best. You both have our numbers, and we'll be back. I can't tell you how much it's meant to see you two again."
Esme stepped forward, her eyes soft as she embraced Edward. "Take care of yourselves." Turning to Bella, she pulled her into a warm hug. "And Bella, it was wonderful getting to know you. We're so thankful you found Edward and brought him home."
Bella nodded, her grin shining. "Yeah, I'm pretty happy I found him myself. Thank you for making me feel so welcome."
With one last glance at the Cullens, Edward took Bella's hand, and together they disappeared into the night.
I hope you enjoyed the chapter!
As always, I appreciate your comments and feedback.
