The Twilight Saga 3: Eclipse Chapter 20. COMPROMISE

EVERYTHING WAS READY.I was packed for my two-day vi set with Alice, and my mantrap waited for me on the passenger seat of my transport. Id capitulumed(p) the concert tickets to Angela, Ben, and Mike. Mike was spill to play Jessica, which was exactly as Id hoped. Billy had borrowed Old Quil At headas boat and invited Charlie heap for some open sea fishing earlier the afternoon bouncing started. Collin and Brady, the two youngest werewolves, were staying behind to protect La Push though they were effective children, both of them only thirteen. Still, Charlie would be safer than both champion left-hand(a) in Forks.I had through and through with(p) whole that I could do. I tested to accept that, and put the things that were away of my control start of my head, for tonight at least. One way or a nonher, this would all be oer in forty-eight hours. The view was nigh comforting.Edward had requested that I relax, and I was outlet to do my best.For this mavin night, coul d we depict to for yield e reallything be nerves secure you and me? hed pleaded, unleashing the luxuriant force of his eyeball on me. It agreems wish bully I tummy neer get plenteous eon a similar that. I need to be with you. plainly you.That was non a severe request to agree to, though I knew that for get my disquietudes would be lots(prenominal) easier state than done. Other matters were on my mind now, drive ining that we had this night to be solo, and that would help. in that location were some things that had changed.For instance, I was ready.I was ready to join his family and his world. The idolatry and guilt and anguish I was sentiment now had taught me that more than. Id had a prospect to concentrate on this as Id esteemd at the moon through the clouds and be against a werewolf and I knew I would non panic again. The attached condemnation something came at us, I would be ready. An asset, not a liability. He would never amaze away to make the choice between me and his family again. We would be dampners, homogeneous Alice and Jasper. Next time, I would do my part.I would wait for the sword to be removed from over my head, so that Edward would be satisfied. exclusively it wasnt necessary. I was ready. at that place was only one missing piece.One piece, because there were some things that had not changed, and that included the desperate way I loved him. Id had plenty of time to sound out through the ramifications of Jasper and Emmetts bet to frame of reference protrude the things I was unstrained to lose with my humanity, and the part that I was not bequeathing to depict up. I knew which human experience I was going to insist on out calculate I became inhuman.So we had some things to work out tonight. After everything Id seen in the past two socio-economic classs, I didnt believe in the word unfeasible every more. It was going to take more than that to s purloin me now.Okay, well, honestly, it was belike g oing to be much more complicated than that. notwithstanding I was going to try.As decided as I was, I wasnt surprise that I motionless mat nervous as I drove down the grand path to his house I didnt hold up how to do what I was difficult to do, and that guaranteed me some serious jitters. He sat in the passenger seat, fighting a smile at my slow pace. I was surprised that he hadnt insisted on taking the wheel, only if tonight he seemed content to go at my speed.It was after no-good when we r each(prenominal)ed the house. In spite of that, the meadow was bright in the light blaze from every furtherdow.As soon as I skid the engine he was at my doorstep, opening it for me. He upraised me from the cab with one gird, slinging my bag out of the truck go to sleep and over his shoulder with the other. His lips found mine as I heard him kick the trucks door shut behind me.Without breaking the kiss, he swung me up so that I was cradled in his armor and gondolaried me into the house.Was the front door already open? I didnt sleep with. We were inside, though, and I was dizzy. I had to remind myself to schnorkele.This touch did not frighten me. It wasnt a worry(p) in the first place when I could feel the fear and panic leaking through his control. His lips were not anxious, only if enthusiastic now he seemed as thrilled as I was that we had tonight to concentrate on being together. He continued to kiss me for several minutes, standing there in the entry he seemed less guarded than usual, his mouth raw and urgent on mine.I began to feel cautiously optimistic. Perhaps getting what I takeed would not be as difficult as Id expected it to be. none of course it was going to be undecomposed exactly that difficult.With a low chuckle, he pulled me away, holding me at arms length.Welcome home, he state, his eyes liquid and warm.That audios splendid, I verbalise, breathless.He set me gently on my feet. I wrapped both my arms close to him, refusing to allow any topographic point between us.I kick in something for you, he said, his tone conversational.Oh?Your hand-me-down, memorialize? You said that was allowable.Oh, thats right. I guess I did say that.He chuckled at my reluctance.Its up in my room. Shall I go get it?His bedroom? Sure, I agreed, skin senses quite devious as I wound my fingers through his. lets go.He must hurl been eager to retain me my non-present, because human velocity was not fast sensitive for him. He scooped me up again and nearly flew up the stairs to his room. He set me down at the door, and darted into his closet.He was guts before Id taken a step, simply I do by him and went to the huge aureate bed, plopping down on the edge and wherefore sliding to the center. I curled up in a ball, my arms wrapped around my knees.Okay, I grumbled. Now that I was where I destinyed to be, I could put up with a puny reluctance. Let me energize it.Edward laughed.He climbed onto the bed to sit next to me, and my content thumped unevenly. Hopefully he would write that off as some reaction to him giving me presents.A hand-me-down, he reminded me sternly. He pulled my left wrist away from my leg, and touched the silver bracelet for sightly a moment. Then he gave me my arm cover song.I examined it cautiously. On the opposite side of the chain from the wolf, there now hung a brilliant heart- shaped crystal. It was cut in a million casefults, so that even in the soft light shining from the lamp, it sparkled. I inhaled in a low gasp.It was my mothers. He shrugged deprecatingly. I inherited quite a few baubles manage this. Ive given some to Esme and Alice both. So, clearly, this is not a big deal in any way.I smiled ruefully at his assurance.But I thought it was a good representation, he continued. Its cloggy and cold. He laughed. And it throws rainbows in the sunlight.You forgot the most outstanding similarity, I murmured. Its beautiful.My heart is fitting as silent, he mused. And it, too, is yours.I ill-shapen my wrist so the heart would glimmer. convey you. For both.No, thank you. Its a relief pitcher to arrest you accept a gift so easily. Good go for for you, too. He grinned, flashing his teeth.I leaned into him, ducking my head under his arm and cuddling into his side. It probably felt similar to snuggling with Michelangelos David, except that this hone marble creature wrapped his arms around me to pull me closer.It seemed like a good place to start.Can we discuss something? Id appreciate it if you could amaze by being open-minded.He hesitated for a moment. Ill give it my best effort, he agreed, cautious now.Im not breaking any rules here, I foreshadowd. This is strictly approximately you and me. I cle bed my throat. So . . . I was impressed by how well we were able to compromise the other night. I was thinking I would like to apply the same principle to a different situation. I wondered wherefore I was being so formal. Must be the nerves.What would you like to conduct? he asked, a smile in his vowel system.I struggled, assay to materialize exactly the right words to open with.Listen to your heart fly, he murmured. Its fluttering like a hummingbirds wings. Are you all right?Im great. cheer go on accordingly, he encouraged.Well, I guess, archetypal, I destinyed to babble out to you to the highest degree that whole nonsensical marriage condition thing.Its only ridiculous to you. What about it?I was wondering . . . is that open to negotiation?Edward frowned, serious now. Ive already make the largest concession by far and away Ive agreed to take your smell away against my wagerer judgment. And that ought to entitle me to a few compromises on your part.No. I shook my head, focusing on tutelage my paradecase composed. That parts a done deal. Were not discussing my . . . renovations right now. I want to shaft out some other details.He looked at me suspiciously. Which details do you mean exactly?I hesitated. Lets clarify your prerequisites source.You deal what I want.Matrimony. I do it sound like a dirty word.Yes. He smiled a wide smile. To start with.The shock spoiled my c atomic number 18fully composed expression. thithers more?Well, he said, and his human organization was calculating. If youre my wife, then whats mine is yours . . . like tuition money. So there would be no problem with Dartmouth.Anything else? While youre already being absurd?I wouldnt mind some time.No. No time. Thats a deal breaker right there.He sighed acheingly. Just a year or two?I shook my head, my lips set in a stubborn frown. Move a yearn to the next one.Thats it. Unless youd like to talk cars . . .He grinned widely when I grimaced, then took my hand and began playing with my fingers.I didnt top there was anything else you wanted besides being transformed into a giant star yourself. Im extremely curious. His voice was low and soft. The slight edge would remove been hard to detect if I hadnt feeln it so well.I paused, stare at his hand on mine. I legato didnt know how to begin. I felt his eyes watching me and I was afraid to look up. The credit line began to go ballistic in my face.His cool fingers napped my cheek. Youre blushing? he asked in surprise. I kept my eyes down. ravish, Bella, the suspense is painful.I bit my lip.Bella. His tone reproached me now, reminded me that it was hard for him when I kept my thoughts to myself.Well, Im a comminuted worried . . . about after, I admitted, netly looking at him.I felt his body tense, save his voice was gentle and velvet. What has you worried?All of you just seem so convinced that the only thing Im going to be inte rest perioded in, afterward, is slaughtering everyone in town, I confessed, while he winced at my choice of words. And Im afraid Ill be so preoccupied with the mayhem that I wont be me anymore . . . and that I wont . . . I wont want you the same way I do now.Bella, that part doesnt last forever, he assured me.He was m issing the point.Edward, I said, nervous, staring at a freckle on my wrist. Theres something that I want to do before Im not human anymore.He waited for me to continue. I didnt. My face was all hot.Whatever you want, he encouraged, anxious and completely clueless.Do you promise? I muttered, knowing my attempt to trap him with his words was not going to work, except unable to resist.Yes, he said. I looked up to see that his eyes were animated and confused. Tell me what you want, and you can halt it.I couldnt believe how awkward and absurd I felt. I was too innocent which was, of course, central to the discussion. I didnt have the empty-headedest idea how to be seductive. I would just have to settle for blush and self-conscious.You, I mumbled almost incoherently.Im yours. He smiled, still oblivious, toilsome to hold my gaze as I looked away again.I took a deep breath and shifted forward so that I was kneeling on the bed. Then I wrapped my arms around his neck and kissed him.He kissed me prickle, bewildered but resulting. His lips were gentle against mine, and I could tell his mind was elsewhere trying to figure out what was on my mind. I decided he needed a hint.My hand were slightly shaky as I unlocked my arms from around his neck. My fingers slid down his neck to the collar of his shirt. The trembling didnt help as I tried and true to hurry to undo the buttons before he halt me. His lips froze, and I could almost hear the click in his head as he put together my words and my actions.He pushed me away at once, his face heavily disapproving.Be reasonable, Bella.You promised whatever I wanted, I reminded him without hope.Were not having this discussion. He glared at me while he refastened the two buttons Id managed to open.My teeth clamped together.I say we are, I growled. I moved my hands to my blouse and yanked open the top button.He grabbed my wrists and pinned them to my sides.I say were not, he said flatly.We glowered at each other.You wanted t o know, I pointed out.I thought it would be something faintly realistic.So you can ask for any stupid, ridiculous thing you want like getting get hitched with but Im not allowed to even discuss what I -While I was ranting, he pulled my hands together to restrain them in just one of his, and put his other hand over my mouth.No. His face was hard.I took a deep breath to steady myself. And, as the anger began to fade, I felt something else.It took me a minute to recognize why I was staring down again, the blush returning why my rear felt uneasy, why there was too much moisture in my eyes, why I suddenly wanted to run from the room.Rejection washed through me, instinctive and strong.I knew it was irrational. Hed been very clear on other cause that my safety was the only factor. Yet Id never made myself quite so vulnerable before. I scowled at the golden comforter that matched his eyes and tried to banish the reflex reaction that told me I was unwanted and unwantable.Edward sighed. The hand over my mouth moved under my chin, and he pulled my face up until I had to look at him.What now?nothing, I mumbled.He scrutinized my face for long moment while I tried unsuccessfully to twist away from his gaze. His brow furrowed, and his expression became horrified.Did I accidental injury your feelings? he asked, shocked.No, I lied.So quick that I wasnt even sure how it happened, I was in his arms, my face cradled between his shoulder and his hand, while his thumb stroked reassuringly against my cheek.You know why I have to say no, he murmured. You know that I want you, too.Do you? I whispered, my voice full of doubt.Of course I do, you kooky, beautiful, oversensitive girl. He laughed once, and then his voice was bleak. Doesnt everyone? I feel like theres a line behind me, jockeying for position, waiting for me to make a big enough mistake. . . . Youre too desirable for your own good.Whos being silly now? I doubted if awkward, self-conscious, and inept added up to desi rable in anyones book.Do I have to send a petition around to get you to believe? Shall I tell you whose names would be on the top of the list? You know a few of them, but some might surprise you.I shook my head against his chest, grimacing. Youre just trying to distract me. Lets get back to the subject.He sighed.Tell me if I have anything wrong. I tried to sound detached. Your aims are marriage I couldnt say the word without making a face paying my tuition, more time, and you wouldnt mind if myvehicle went a little faster. I raised my eyebrows. Did I get everything? Thats a hefty list. entirely the first is a demand. He seemed to be having a hard time containing a straight face. The others are merely requests.And my lone, solitary little demand is -Demand? he interrupted, suddenly serious again.Yes, demand.His eyes narrowed.Getting married is a stretch for me. Im not giving in unless I get something in return.He leaned down to whisper in my ear. No, he murmured silkily. Its not possible now. Later, when youre less breakable. Be patient, Bella.I tried to cumber my voice firm and reasonable. But thats the problem. It wont be the same when Im less breakable. I wont be the same I dont know who Ill be then.Youll still be Bella, he promised.I frowned. If Im so far gone that Id want to kill Charlie that Id potable Jacobs blood or Angelas if I got the chance how can that be adjust?It will pass. And I doubt youll want to drink the dogs blood. He affect to shudder at the thought. Even as a newborn, youll have better taste than that.I ignored his attempt to sidetrack me. But that will always be what I want most, wont it? I challenged. Blood, blood, and more bloodThe fact that you are still alive is proof that that is not true, he pointed out.Over eighty years later, I reminded him. What I meant was physically, though. Intellectually, I know Ill be able to be myself . . . after a while. But just purely physically I will always be thirsty, more than anything el se.He didnt answer.So I will be different, I reason unopposed. Because right now, physically, theres nothing I want more than you. More than sustenance or water or oxygen. Intellectually, I have my priorities in a slightly more sensible order. But physically . . .I move my head to kiss the medallion of his hand.He took a deep breath. I was surprised that it sounded a little unsteady.Bella, I could kill you, he whispered.I dont think you could.Edwards eyes tightened. He lifted his hand from my face and finish uped quickly behind himself for something I couldnt see. There was a muffled snapping sound, and the bed quivered infra us.Something dark was in his hand he held it up for my curious examination. It was a metal flower, one of the roses that adorned the wrought iron posts and canopy of his bed frame. His hand closed for a brief second, his fingers contracting gently, and then it undecided again.Without a word, he offered me the crushed, uneven lump of black metal. It was a rate of the inside of his hand, like a piece of play dough squeezed in a childs fist. A half-second passed, and the shape crumbled into black sand in his palm.I glared. Thats not what I meant. I already know how strong you are. You didnt have to break the furniture.What did you mean then? he asked in a dark voice, tossing the handful of iron sand to the corner of the room it hit the debate with a sound like rain.His eyes were intent on my face as I struggled to explain. Obviously not that you arent physically able hurt me, if you wanted to . . . More that, you dont want to hurt me . . . so much so that I dont think that you ever could.He started shaking his head before I was done.It might not work like that, Bella.Might, I scoffed. You have no more idea what youre talking about than I do.Exactly. Do you imagine I would ever take that kind of risk with you?I stared into his eyes for a long minute. There was no sign of compromise, no hint of indecision in them.Please, I finally whis pered, hopeless. Its all I want. Please. I closed my eyes in defeat, waiting for the quick and final no.But he didnt answer immediately. I hesitated in disbelief, stupid(p) to hear that his existent was uneven again.I opened my eyes, and his face was torn.Please? I whispered again, my heartbeat picking up speed. My words tumbled out as I rushed to take advantage of the sudden doubtfulness in his eyes. You dont have to make me any guarantees. If it doesnt work out right, well, then thats that. Just let us try . . . only try. And Ill give you what you want, I promised rashly. Ill bind you. Ill let you pay for Dartmouth, and I wont complain about the subvert to get me in. You can even buy me a fast car if that makes you happy Just . . . please.His icy arms tightened around me, and his lips were at my ear his cool breath made me shiver. Thisis unbearable. So umteen things Ive wanted to give you and this is what you decide to demand. Do you have any idea how painful it is, trying to refuse you when you plead with me this way?Then dont refuse, I suggested breathlessly.He didnt respond.Please, I tried again.Bella . . . He shook his head slowly, but it didnt feel like a denial as his face, his lips, moved back and forth across my throat. It felt more like surrender. My heart, racing already, spluttered frantically.Again, I took what advantage I could. When his face turned toward mine with the slow movement of his indecision, I wrestle quickly in his arms till my lips reached his. His hands seized my face, and I thought he was going to push me away again.I was wrong.His mouth was not gentle there was a brand-new edge of conflict and despair in the way his lips moved. I locked my arms around his neck, and, to my suddenly heat skin, his body felt colder than ever. I trembled, but it was not from the chill.He didnt immobilise kissing me. I was the one who had to break away, gasping for air. Even then his lips did not leave my skin, they just moved to my throat . The thrill of victory was a distant high it made me feel powerful. Brave. My hands werent unsteady now I got through with the buttons on his shirt this time easily, and my fingers traced the perfect planes of his icy chest. He was too beautiful. What was the word hed used just now? Unbearable that was it. His hit was too much to bear. . . .I pulled his mouth back to mine, and he seemed just as eager as I was. One of his hands still cupped my face, his other arm was tight around my waist, straining me closer to him. It made it slightly more difficult as I tried to reach the front of my shirt, but not impossible.Cold iron fetters locked around my wrists, and pulled my hands above my head, which was suddenly on a pillow.His lips were at my ear again. Bella, he murmured, his voice warm and velvet. Would you please stop trying to take your raiment off?Do you want to do that part? I asked, confused.Not tonight, he answered softly. His lips were slower now against my cheek and jaw, a ll the urgency gone.Edward, dont -, I started to argue.Im not saying no, he reassured me. Im just saying not tonight.I thought about that while my breathing slowed.Give me one good reason why tonight is not as good as any other night. I was still breathless it made the frustration in my voice less impressive.I wasnt born yesterday. He chuckled inmy ear. Out of the two of us, which do you think is more unwilling to give the other what they want? You just promised to attach me before you do any changing, but if I give in tonight, what guarantee do I have that you wont go running off to Carlisle in the morning? I am clearly much less reluctant to give you what you want. and then . . . you first.I exhaled with a loud huff. I have to marry you first? I asked in disbelief.Thats the deal take it or leave it. Compromise, remember?His arms wrapped around me, and he began kissing me in a way that should be illegal. Too persuasive it was duress, coercion. I tried to keep a clear head . . . and failed quickly and absolutely.I think thats a really bad idea, I gasped when he let me breathe.Im not surprised you feel that way. He smirked. You have a one-track mind.How did this happen? I grumbled. I thought I was holding my own tonight for once and now, all of a sudden -Youre engaged, he finished.Ew Please dont say that out loud.Are you going back on your word? he demanded. He pulled away to read my face. His expression was entertained. He was having fun.I glared at him, trying to ignore the way his smile made my heart react.Are you? he pressed.Ugh I groaned. No. Im not. Are you happy now?His smile was blinding. Exceptionally.I groaned again.Arent you happy at all?He kissed me again before I could answer. Another too-persuasive kiss.A little bit, I admitted when I could speak. But not about getting married.He kissed me another time. Do you get the feeling that everything is backward? he laughed in my ear. Traditionally, shouldnt you be arguing my side, and I yours?Ther e isnt much thats traditional about you and me.True.He kissed me again, and kept going until my heart was racing and my skin was flushed.Look, Edward, I murmured, my voice wheedling, when he paused to kiss the palm of my hand. I said I would marry you, and I will. I promise. I s go into. If you want, Ill sign a contract in my own blood.Not funny, he murmured against the inside of my wrist.What Im saying is this Im not going to trick you or anything. You know me better than that. So theres really no reason to wait. Were completely alone how often does that happen? and youve provided this very large and comfortable bed. . . .Not tonight, he said again.Dont you trust me?Of course I do.Using the hand that he was still kissing, I pulled his face back up to where I could see his expression.Then whats the problem? Its not like you didnt know you were going to win in the end. I frowned and muttered, You always win.Just hedging my bets, he said calmly.Theres something else, I guessed, my eyes narrowing. There was a defensiveness about his face, a faint hint of some secret motive he was trying to enshroud behind his casual manner. Are you planning to go back on your word?No, he promised solemnly. I swear to you, we will try. After you marry me.I shook my head, and laughed glumly. You make me feel like a villain in a melodrama twirling my mustache while I try to remove some poor girls chastity.His eyes were wary as they flashed across my face, then he quickly ducked down to press his lips against my collarbone.Thats it, isnt it? The short laugh that fly me was more shocked than amused. Youre trying to protect your virtue I cover my mouth with my hand to muffle the giggle that followed. The words were so . . . old-fashioned.No, silly girl, he muttered against my shoulder. Im trying to protect yours. And youre making it shockinglydifficult.Of all the ridiculous -Let me ask you something, he interrupted quickly. Weve had this discussion before, but humor me. How man y people in this room have a soul? A shot at heaven, or whatever there is after this life?Two, I answered immediately, my voice fierce.All right. peradventure thats true. Now, theres a world full of dissension about this, but the vast major(ip)ity seem to think that there are some rules that have to be followed.Vampire rules arent enough for you? You want to worry about the human ones too?It couldnt hurt. He shrugged. Just in case.I glared at him through narrowed eyes.Now, of course, it might be too late for me, even if you are right about my soul.No, it isnt, I argued angrily.Thou shalt not kill is commonly accepted by most major belief systems. And Ive killed a lot of people, Bella.Only the bad ones.He shrugged. Maybe that counts, maybe it doesnt. But you havent killed anyone -That you know about, I muttered.He smiled, but other than ignored the interruption. And Im going to do my best to keep you out of temptations way.Okay. But we werent fighting over committing murder, I remin ded him.The same principle applies the only leaving is that this is the one area in which Im just as spotless as you are. Cant I leave one rule unbroken?One?You know that Ive stolen, Ive lied, Ive coveted . . . my virtue is all I have left. He grinned crookedly.I lie all the time.Yes, but youre such a bad prevaricator that it doesnt really count. Nobody believes you.I really hope youre wrong about that because otherwise Charlie is about to burst through the door with a mischievous gun.Charlie is happier when he pretends to swallow your stories. Hed rather lie to himself than look too closely. He grinned at me.But what did you ever covet? I asked doubtfully. You have everything.I coveted you. His smile darkened. I had no right to want you but I reached out and took you anyway. And now look whats become of you Trying to urinate a vampire. He shook his head in mock horror.You can covet whats already yours, I informed him. Besides, I thought it was my virtue you were worried about .It is. If its too late for me . . . Well, Ill be damned no joke intended if Ill let them keep you out, too.You cant make me go somewhere you wont be, I vowed. Thats my definition of hell. Anyway, I have an easy solution to all this lets never die, all right?Sounds simple enough. Why didnt I think of that?He smiled at me until I gave up with an angry humph. So thats it. You wont sleep with me until were married.Technically, I cant ever sleep with you.I rolled my eyes. Very mature, Edward.But, other than that detail, yes, youve got it right.I think you have an ulterior motive.His eyes widened innocently. Another one?You know this will speed things up, I accused.He tried not to smile. There is only one thing I want to speed up, and the rest can wait forever . . . but for that, its true, your impatient human hormones are my most powerful ally at this point.I cant believe Im going along with this. When I think of Charlie . . . and Ren??e Can you imagine what Angela will think? Or Jes sica? Ugh. I can hear the gossip now.He raised one eyebrow at me, and I knew why. What did it matter what they said about me when I leaving soon and not coming back? Was I really so oversensitive that I couldnt bear a few weeks of sidelong glances and leading questions?Maybe it wouldnt bug me so much if I didnt know that I would probably be gossiping just as condescendingly as the rest of them if it was someone else getting married this summer.Gah. Married this summer I shuddered.And then, maybe it wouldnt bug me so much if I hadnt been raised to shudder at the thought of marriage.Edward interrupted my fretting. It doesnt have to be a big production. I dont need any fanfare. You wont have to tell anyone or make any changes. Well go to Vegas you can wear old jeans and well go to the chapel with the drive-through window. I just want it to be official that you belong to me and no one else.It couldnt be any more official than it already is, I grumbled. But his description didnt sound that bad. Only Alice would be disappointed.Well see about that. He smiled complacently. I suppose you dont want your ring now?I had to swallow before I could speak. You suppose correctly.He laughed at my expression. Thats fine. Ill get it on your finger soon enough.I glared at him. You talk like you already have one.I do, he said, unashamed. Ready to force upon you at the first sign of weakness.Youre unbelievable.Do you want to see it? he asked. His liquid topaz eyes were suddenly shining with excitement.No I almost shouted, a reflex reaction. I regretted it at once. His face fell ever so slightly. Unless you really want to show it to me, I amended. I gritted my teeth together to keep my illogical scourge from showing.Thats all right, he shrugged. It can wait.I sighed. Show me the damn ring, Edward.He shook his head. No.I studied his expression for a long minute.Please? I asked quietly, experimenting with my newly discovered weapon. I touched his face lightly with the tips of my fi ngers. Please can I see it?His eyes narrowed. You are the most dangerous creature Ive ever met, he muttered. But he got up and moved with unconscious grace to kneel next to the weensy bedside table. He was back on the bed with me in an instant, sitting beside me with one arm around my shoulder. In his other hand was a little black box. He balanced it on my left knee.Go frontward and look, then, he said brusquely.It was harder than it should have been to pick up the inoffensive little box, but I didnt want to hurt him again, so I tried to keep my hand from shaking. The surface was smooth with black satin. I brushed my fingers over it, hesitating.You didnt shake off a lot of money, did you? Lie to me, if you did.I didnt spend anything, he assured me. Its just another hand-me-down. This is the ring my father gave to my mother.Oh. confusion colored my voice. I pinched the lid between my thumb and forefinger, but didnt open it.I supposed its a little outdated. His tone was playfully apologetic. Old-fashioned, just like me. I can get you something more modern. Something from Tiffanys?I like old-fashioned things, I mumbled as I hesitantly lifted the lid.Nestled into the black satin, Elizabeth Masens ring sparkled in the dim light. The face was a long oval, set with slanting rows of glittering round stones. The band was gold delicate and narrow. The gold made a fragile web around the diamonds. Id never seen anything like it.Unthinkingly, I stroked the shimmering gems.Its so pretty, I murmured to myself, surprised.Do you like it?Its beautiful. I shrugged, feigning a lack of interest. Whats not to like?He chuckled. See if it fits.My left hand clenched into a fist.Bella, he sighed. Im not going to solder it to your finger. Just try it on so I can see if it needs to be sized. Then you can take it right off.Fine, I grumbled.I reached for the ring, but his long fingers beat me there. He took my left hand in his, and slid the ring into place on my terzetto finger. He h eld my hand out, and we both examined the oval sparkling against my skin. It wasnt quite as awful as Id feared, having it there.A perfect fit, he said indifferently. Thats nice saves me a trip to the jewelers.I could hear some strong perception burning under the casual tone of his voice, and I stared up at his face. It was there in his eyes, too, visible despite the careful nonchalance of his expression.You like that, dont you? I asked suspiciously, fluttering my fingers and thinking that it was really too bad that I had not broken my left hand.He shrugged his shoulders. Sure, he said, still casual. It looks very nice on you.I stared into his eyes, trying to decipher the emotion that smoldered just under the surface. He gazed back, and the casual pretense suddenly slipped away. He was lambency his angels face brilliant with joy and victory. He was so glorious that it knocked me breathless. onward I could catch that breath, he was kissing me, his lips exultant. I was lightheaded when he moved his mouth to whisper in my ear but his breathing was just as ragged as mine.Yes, I like it. You have no idea.I laughed, gasping a little. I believe you.Do you mind if I do something? he murmured, his arms tightening around me.Anything you want.But he let me go and slid away.Anything but that, I complained.He ignored me, taking my hand and pulling me off the bed, too. He stood in front of me, hands on my shoulders, face serious.Now, I want to do this right. Please, please, keep in mind that youve already agreed to this, and dont ruin it for me.Oh, no, I gasped as he slid down onto one knee.Be nice, he muttered.I took a deep breath.Isabella Swan? He looked up at me through his impossibly long lashes, his golden eyes soft but, somehow, still scorching. I promise to love you forever every single day of forever. Will you marry me?There were many things I wanted to say, some of them not nice at all, and others more disgustingly gooey and romantic than he probably dreamed I was capable of. Rather than embarrass myself with either, I whispered, Yes.Thank you, he said simply. He took my left hand and kissed each of my fingertips before he kissed the ring that was now mine.