A Soul Darkened
by Laura Spudzmom
Chapter 08:
I sighed to myself. I had no idea what to say to Demetri. I had left him with Felix and the two 'guests' at the reception area. I didn't feel the need to accompany him to present the two women to the kings.
Oh alright, I was avoiding him again, and I figured ducking out while he was otherwise occupied was a good way to do it. I was currently heading to the gardens. I knew he could find me should he choose to, but I was betting he wouldn't. He wasn't stupid by any means and I wasn't so naive to think he didn't realize what I was doing. His pride wouldn't let him grovel either, this I knew. He had bared his soul to me and would not approach the subject again until I had the courage to do so.
I admit that it's really chicken shit of me to leave him waiting and wondering. But what can an emotionally stunted person like me do in such a situation? I love him and I've told him that, but the depth of his feelings were scaring the crap out of me for some reason. A reason I couldn't fathom, and felt more comfortable ignoring.
I thought we were doing great as we were. We got along great, the sex was amazing, why muddy the waters with declarations of devotion? Shit like that just lead to commitments and commitments in a relationship terrified me if I'm being honest.
My musing found me in a remote corner of the garden where I sat and watched the moon rise. I began to wonder if maybe we should cool things off for a while. Maybe that would help me figure things out? Would I just wind up screwing things up with him? Would he be willing to wait for me? I guess my first move after talking to him should be to get my own quarters. Resolved to do what I felt was best, I stood and made my way to Demetri's rooms.
I knocked and heard him bid me entry. I walked in to find him in his bedroom, repacking his bag with fresh clothes. He watched me enter and continued packing. "Hi Demi. How did things go with the kings?"
"Swimmingly." He smirked. "Aro read the two women and it seems that they were both truthful. They hadn't told anyone else, so they both were quartered together with a guard placed at their door where they will remain until the entire Cullen coven is acquired, and a trial can take place. What will happen to them at that point, I do not know."
He zipped his bag closed and pinned me with his gaze. "Where did you go? Master Aro asked after you. I told him that you had returned with us, but wanted to get resettled before seeing him. He wants to see you at your earliest convenience."
I sighed and sat on the side of the bed. "I went to the gardens to do some thinking." I glanced up at him to see him watching me intently. "And?"
I shrugged. "And what? I just did some thinking. I needed to get some things straight in my mind."
He was looking at me knowingly."And, did you?"
I raised my brows in question at him. He blew out a breath in exasperation. "Come on Bella. I can sense a change between us. There has been a wall between us since I told you just how deeply my feelings for you run. Now you avoid me at every opportunity. I'm not stupid Cara. Just be straight with me. I've lived a long time. I think I can handle what you have to tell me."
I sagged and ran a hand through my hair, nodding. "Alright. I need space to figure things out." I glanced at him and his face was a neutral mask, giving absolutely nothing away. "I love you Demi, but we sort of jumped into this relationship quickly, you know? There have been so many changes in my life since meeting you and I sort of just went with it. It's been good, don't get me wrong, but I need to be sure and I feel like I can't do that with us together."
He nodded and walked to the door. Without looking back at me he said "Do what you feel you need to do Isabella. We leave again in six hours. Don't forget to meet with Aro." And he left the room.
As I made my way to the throne room, all I could think was that he had used my full name and had been so cold. I guess I shouldn't be surprised. What did I expect? He opened everything up to me and I couldn't reciprocate. In fact I'm now backing out of what we did have. How could I expect anything else from him?
I arrived at the throne room, straightened my shoulders and entered. Once stood before Aro, I bowed. "Master Aro, you wanted to see me?"
"Yes Isabella. I wanted to see how you fared with the part of your mission that has been completed so far. I know that with your history with the Cullen's, it may have been difficult for you."
I met his eye. "No Master. It is my honor to perform my duties as an Elite Guard, and I shall perform them without fail or hesitation. I experienced no difficulties."
He smiled at me. "Very well Isabella. I am delighted to hear such a report. Your group is expected to leave again in just under six hours. Are there any issues that you would like to address with me before your departure?"
I nodded. "Yes Master Aro. I would like to be assigned my own quarters."
Aro's eyebrows inched up, but he didn't question me. "Very well my dear. That can be arranged. Go and see Giana and she will assign rooms to you. You may get settled prior to leaving this evening if you wish." He leaned forward and steepled his fingers beneath his chin. "I hope that you would feel comfortable enough with us that you would know that you can speak to us concerning any difficulties you may be having my dear? We are here to listen and help whenever possible."
I dipped my head in appreciation. "Thank you Master, but all is well. I simply felt the need for my own quarters."
He leaned back, eyeing me knowingly. "Splendid my dear. You are dismissed and I wish you a safe and productive mission."
I bowed deeply. "Thank you Masters."
Once I got my rooms assigned, I packed up my things from Demetri's rooms and got everything moved before repacking my bag for the continuing mission. I was moving on auto pilot. I felt cold and resolved inside. It was a very familiar feeling and I settled right into it. It was safe. I couldn't be hurt here, locked within myself. It was how I had lived and survived for the prior four years before meeting Demetri after all. It felt like slipping back into comfortable shoes that you didn't realize you missed. Maybe this cold, detached existence was meant to be for me? I lifted my chin and straightened my spine. Yes, no more sentimental bullshit for me. I resolutely ignored the squeeze I felt in my chest at the thought.
Demetri, Felix and I rejoined Alec and Jane in the garage and got settled into an SUV. The ride to the airport was silent. There was a tension in the air that everyone seemed to feel. Once on the jet, Demetri briefed us on our destination. We were going to Alaska, his last pin pointed location of Alice Cullen. It seems that she was now with the Denali Coven.
I found it interesting that she was alone. I thought sure that Jasper would be where ever she was, but I chose not to comment. Demetri would find them. We settled in for the long flight with Felix, Alec and Jane eyeing Demetri and me curiously. I didn't meet anyone's eyes. I didn't feel like answering questions.
Three books and much silence later, we landed and departed the airport in yet another black SUV. We didn't get a hotel suite this time, choosing instead to go straight to the Denali's. We donned our cloaks and approached the front door which Eleazar opened before we could knock. Alec and Felix had circled around the back of the house just in case and it was good that they did. Alice had tried to escape out the back and Felix walked her around to the front.
Eleazar looked affronted. "Demetri, what is the meaning of this? Why have you come here and why does Felix restrain Alice Cullen now?"
Demetri was all business. "Alice Cullen, as well as the rest of her coven, is wanted in Volterra for questioning regarding breach of the law." Eleazar looked shocked and turned toward Alice.
She struggled in Felix' hold. "I have done no such thing!"
Demetri turned to her. "Then you have nothing to fear from us. You will have a fair trial and if all is as you say, you will be on your way, unharmed. Cease your struggle, it is fruitless. I am not here to execute punishment, only to retrieve you and deliver you to Volterra. Come quietly and the trip will be relatively pleasant. Continue to struggle and Alec will subdue you."
She sagged in Felix' hold. Demetri eyed her coldly. "Do we have your word of honor that you will come quietly and not attempt escape Alice Cullen?"
She looked at him with contempt. "Yes, you have my word." Her lip curled a bit. "Will you at least give me the chance to gather my belongings?"
He moved to stand before her and stared down at her. "You have thirty minutes to do so. We will depart then."
I dropped my hood and spoke. "You might want to limit her amount of luggage. She tends to pack excessively."
Alice whipped her head around and gasped. "I didn't see this at all. I haven't been able to 'see' you since we left, and now I didn't see any of you coming. Does that have to do with you Bella?"
I stood stoic. "I will not answer your questions Alice Cullen. That does not fall within the scope of my duties."
Her eyes widened when she got a look at my pendant. "You're a Volturri Guard. How could you betray us like this, especially after all the money Edward gave you to stay quiet?"
I gazed at her coldly. "I will not answer your questions Alice Cullen. It is not in my duties and I have no wish to do so." She shook her head in disgust.
Demetri addressed her. "You will be allowed one standard sized bag and you are now down to twenty five minutes to pack before we depart, with or without it."
She scoffed and jerked her arm from Felix' grasp. "Fine." She huffed her way into the house and Demetri motioned with his head for Felix to follow her.
Demetri turned back to Eleazar. "If, during their trial it comes to light that any of your coven had knowledge of this breach of the law, you may all be required to report to Volterra. It would be in your best interests to do so voluntarily, to show good faith." He pinned him with his gaze. "You understand my meaning Eleazar?"
Eleazar looked discomfited but nodded. "I understand you fully Demetri. We will ready ourselves for a visit."
I found my way back to the vehicle to wait. Jane joined me a moment later. "Are you alright Bella?"
I looked at her and smirked. "Of course. Why wouldn't I be? The Cullen's don't get to me."
She took out a pack of Dunhills and offered me one. Oh hell, why not? "Thanks."
She nodded and we lit up. "I'm not talking about the Cullen's at all Bella." She gave me a sidelong glance and I stiffened. I knew this was probably coming, but I really didn't want to get into answering or deflecting.
"What else could there be bothering me Jane?"
Her brows shot up. "So I've just been imagining the huge frigid wall between you and Demetri then? Because if I have then I need to hone my observational skills. I must be a bit rusty." She smirked.
I took a drag off my cigarette and blew it out, looking at her through the smoke. She was still smirking. "Alright. Shit. Ya got me, okay? I told him I need space and I moved out of his rooms. Things were getting too complicated for my tastes. That's the story." I shrugged and stared off into the distance.
"Ah, I see." She nodded. "He was getting too serious and you got spooked and shut down."
I shot her a dirty look. "I don't get spooked by anything. I just wanted space. I was feeling stifled."
She looked at me seriously. "Look Bella, I'm hardly one to give advice where relationships are concerned, but I've watched you two together and you fit. He's a great guy, one of the rare sincere and loyal ones, ya know? I've known him a very long time, and he genuinely loves you. Don't throw that away just because it's difficult to overcome your emotional damage. You'll come to regret it if you do, and he won't wait forever." She crushed out her cigarette and picked up the butt. "Just some advice from one who's been there. Take it for what it's worth." She walked back to the group.
Deep within me, I had to admit that her words shook me. I had considered the same things myself, but I didn't want to face any of it. It seemed easier not to. So I decided that I wouldn't. There was time for that shit later, right? I crushed out my cigarette, picked up the butt and got in the vehicle to wait.
We made our way back to the airport with Alice Cullen. It was decided that Alec would accompany her back to Italy on a commercial flight. The rest of us boarded the Volturi jet and headed to Michigan of all places. This is where Demetri had sensed Edward to be.
We rented a vehicle and drove to a wooded area where Demetri parked. "I don't have an address for this place so we'll go on foot from here. It's probably best that way anyway since we can spread out in case he tries to run. He's supposed to be very fast so if he tries to run drop him with your power Jane until we get him secured. We'll circle the house when we reach it. I'll go to the front door." He looked at me. "Bella, make sure your mental shield is covering all of us so he can't get a read on us and get a head start." I gave a sharp nod and we exited the vehicle and took off following Demetri.
We came to the edge of a clearing in which a huge log home was situated. I snorted to myself. No way would anyone ever classify it as a cabin. We all took up positions circling the clearing and began our approach closing in on the home. I was almost to the deck at the rear of the house when Edward shot out of the back door. I had a nano second to tackle him which I did, wrapping my arms and legs around him, taking him to the ground. I still had a bit of newborn strength, so it wasn't a contest.
Hearing the struggle, the others came running and Felix grabbed him and stood him up. He looked distressed and defiant. Demetri walked up to him. "Edward Cullen, we are here to take you back to Italy to stand trial before the kings for breaching the law. You will come with us quietly, or we will dismember you for your journey. Which do you choose?"
Edward struggled in Felix' grasp. "You can't do this! I haven't breached any laws! I demand you let me go now!" He looked around at us wildly. "Why can't I hear any of your thoughts?"
Demetri slapped him. "My question remains unanswered and I'm losing patience. Will you come quietly or will you be dismembered?"
Edward scoffed. "And you didn't address my concerns! I'm innocent, and therefore you can't just abduct me like this! Carlisle is an old friend of Aro's. I'm sure he won't be happy that I've been treated thusly!"
Demetri looked over at Jane and nodded. She directed her gaze at Edward and he dropped in Felix' hold, screaming. She held him under for a few moments and he panted, trying to recover.
Demetri lifted his head. "That was your last opportunity to cooperate." He grasped Edwards head and twisted while pulling. Between Demetri and Felix, it only took seconds to have him in pieces. We all picked up parts of him and made our way back to the SUV.
Felix dropped his torso and lifted the back gate on the vehicle pulling out two large duffel bags. We all stuffed our various pieces into the two bags, Felix loaded it in the back and we were on our way.
We sneaked through at the airport and boarded the jet bound this time for Chicago. I sat next to Jane eying the two black duffel bags. I smirked over to her. "He's much more tolerable that way, I must say."
She laughed and nodded. "I bet. Just a few minutes in his presence and I was ready to toss a lighter on his ass." She looked at me as she offered me a cigarette before lighting her own. "You were in love with him? Jesus Bella, no wonder you're fucked up."
I punched her shoulder. "Shut up bitch. We're all allowed one big fuck up in love." I nodded my head at the bags. "That was mine."
She pinned me with a hard gaze. "Exactly."
I rolled my eyes. She wasn't exactly being subtle.
Chicago turned out to be the chosen hiding place of Emmett and Rosalie. They were in Edwards old house from his human life right in the middle of the suburbs so we ditched the cloaks and once again, circled the house while Demetri knocked on the front door. Both Rosalie and Emmett answered so we all came back around the front and entered.
Rosalie got right to the point. "What does the Volturi want with us?"
Before Demetri could answer, Emmett placed a hand on Rosalie's shoulder. "Maybe we should all go sit down to talk about this Rose?"
She shrugged off his hand. "No, screw that. I want to know what they want with us because if it has anything to do with Edwards penchant for screwing around with human girls," She glared at Demetri, "then we don't want any part of it. I'm not taking a fall because of his weird fixation."
Demetri straightened his spine and we all stepped up to flank him. "We are not here to decide your innocence or guilt. We are here under orders to collect all members of the Cullen Coven and deliver you to Italy where you will all stand trial for breach of the law. All will be decided there."
Rosalie swept her gaze over me. "Ah Bella. Why am I not surprised to see you? Blow all the money and now you work for the Italians? Better than whoring yourself out I guess, which I had money on as being your profession of choice when you got desperate."
I smirked. "Rosalie, I see you're still the same bitch you always were."
Demetri stepped in. "Despite how charming this reunion may be, we have orders that will be carried out. Will you come willingly, or in pieces? Think carefully. I won't offer again."
Emmett stepped up like he was going to protest but Rosalie stopped him with a hand on his arm. "Fine. We'll come quietly. Do we have time to pack?"
Demetri nodded sharply. "We will give you thirty minutes, and then we depart."
She turned and looked back at us, motioning toward the living room. "You may as well sit while you wait. We'll be down shortly." They disappeared up the stairs and we all took seats in the living room.
I flopped on the couch next to Felix. "Godammit. I was really hoping that she wouldn't come quietly. I was looking forward to tearing that bitch to pieces."
Jane smirked. "It's a long journey back to Italy Bella. You may yet get your chance. It doesn't seem like she's going to be quiet for long for any reason."
I chuckled darkly. "You're right of course Jane. I guess I'm just too pessimistic lately." I heard a small scoff from Demetri and my heart squeezed a bit. I looked away and fell silent.
Felix sat up. "Yeah well, I'll take out the guy. He looked like he was spoiling for a fight and I've been bored out of my fucking mind with this mission. Pulling apart pussy boy was the most fun I've had in a while."
I sighed. "Well it's almost over. We only have one more Cullen coven member to retrieve and that's Jasper." I looked at Demetri. "Were you able to find out any information on the last woman Edward had a relationship with?"
He nodded. "Yes, I was able to confirm through various records and a death certificate that she died in an automobile accident sixteen months after the Cullen's moved away from her. She had no siblings and her parents were older. They are also both dead now, from natural causes. I don't believe that further investigation into her contacts is warranted, but I will submit my full report to the kings and let them decide.
My inclination is for all of us to make our way back to Italy with these two before going to Texas to retrieve Jasper Whitlock. He is a very proficient fighter, and I believe that he is with his former Whitlock coven members, Peter and Charlotte Whitlock; both also proficient fighters. We may need to be at our full strength and compliment to deal with them." We all nodded our agreement.
Emmett and Rosalie descended the stairs with their bags and we departed. Once in the vehicle, Emmett looked at me and smiled. "Despite the circumstances, it's good to see you again Bella. I hope there aren't any hard feelings." Rosalie snorted and crossed her arms over her chest.
I rolled my eyes and then looked at Emmett. "It's good to see you too Emmett. There really aren't any hard feelings on my part, although many of your 'family' members seem to think it was me who ratted you all out." Rosalie shot me a death glare. "It wasn't by the way. Whether you all choose to believe it or not. It was Victoria, one of the nomads. I was just living my life, minding my own business when Demetri came for me, so yeah. That's how it is."
He nodded and smiled at me. "I'm sorry that happened to you Bella."
I smiled back at him ruefully. "I'm not sorry Emmett so you shouldn't be either. Since meeting all of you, I had always felt that I was meant to be a vampire and I don't regret it. I am where I was always meant to be."
Rosalie looked at me. "Yeah, being a bloodsucking murderer suits you Bella."
I grinned widely at her. "Why thank you for the compliment Rosalie! I love it, really. It's much easier to kill people now than it was as a human."
Emmett's eyes were wide. "What do you mean by that Bella?"
"Well Emmett, after my windfall, I found myself the best human instructors in the art of killing that money could buy. It took me three years of hard work, but I became the best contract killer that I could be." I eyed Rosalie with malice. "That was my profession of choice and I was damn good at it. And now, I don't have to waste all of that good blood, as Demetri liked to point out." I smiled maliciously.
Emmett whistled lowly and sat back. "Jesus Bella. That's something I never pictured; you as a contract killer. My mind just refuses to go there." He shook his head slowly.
"Yeah well, you can ask Demetri if you don't believe me. He saw me at work the night he came to get me." I shrugged. "It was good money, not that I really needed it, but now that I'm immortal, I'm happy that I added to the fortune Edward paid me. I'm sure living forever costs a bit of cash."
Rosalie curled her lip at me. "Maybe we'll all be lucky and someone will toss a lit match your way one of these days."
I grinned at her. "That may be so Rosalie, but I'd bet good money that you won't be around to see it happen, so yeah, you first bitch."
She turned her head to look out the window and fell silent. Jane smirked at me and we bumped fists. We sat back and rode out the rest of the trip to the airport, everyone remaining silent.
I sighed to myself. I had no idea what to say to Demetri. I had left him with Felix and the two 'guests' at the reception area. I didn't feel the need to accompany him to present the two women to the kings.
Oh alright, I was avoiding him again, and I figured ducking out while he was otherwise occupied was a good way to do it. I was currently heading to the gardens. I knew he could find me should he choose to, but I was betting he wouldn't. He wasn't stupid by any means and I wasn't so naive to think he didn't realize what I was doing. His pride wouldn't let him grovel either, this I knew. He had bared his soul to me and would not approach the subject again until I had the courage to do so.
I admit that it's really chicken shit of me to leave him waiting and wondering. But what can an emotionally stunted person like me do in such a situation? I love him and I've told him that, but the depth of his feelings were scaring the crap out of me for some reason. A reason I couldn't fathom, and felt more comfortable ignoring.
I thought we were doing great as we were. We got along great, the sex was amazing, why muddy the waters with declarations of devotion? Shit like that just lead to commitments and commitments in a relationship terrified me if I'm being honest.
My musing found me in a remote corner of the garden where I sat and watched the moon rise. I began to wonder if maybe we should cool things off for a while. Maybe that would help me figure things out? Would I just wind up screwing things up with him? Would he be willing to wait for me? I guess my first move after talking to him should be to get my own quarters. Resolved to do what I felt was best, I stood and made my way to Demetri's rooms.
I knocked and heard him bid me entry. I walked in to find him in his bedroom, repacking his bag with fresh clothes. He watched me enter and continued packing. "Hi Demi. How did things go with the kings?"
"Swimmingly." He smirked. "Aro read the two women and it seems that they were both truthful. They hadn't told anyone else, so they both were quartered together with a guard placed at their door where they will remain until the entire Cullen coven is acquired, and a trial can take place. What will happen to them at that point, I do not know."
He zipped his bag closed and pinned me with his gaze. "Where did you go? Master Aro asked after you. I told him that you had returned with us, but wanted to get resettled before seeing him. He wants to see you at your earliest convenience."
I sighed and sat on the side of the bed. "I went to the gardens to do some thinking." I glanced up at him to see him watching me intently. "And?"
I shrugged. "And what? I just did some thinking. I needed to get some things straight in my mind."
He was looking at me knowingly."And, did you?"
I raised my brows in question at him. He blew out a breath in exasperation. "Come on Bella. I can sense a change between us. There has been a wall between us since I told you just how deeply my feelings for you run. Now you avoid me at every opportunity. I'm not stupid Cara. Just be straight with me. I've lived a long time. I think I can handle what you have to tell me."
I sagged and ran a hand through my hair, nodding. "Alright. I need space to figure things out." I glanced at him and his face was a neutral mask, giving absolutely nothing away. "I love you Demi, but we sort of jumped into this relationship quickly, you know? There have been so many changes in my life since meeting you and I sort of just went with it. It's been good, don't get me wrong, but I need to be sure and I feel like I can't do that with us together."
He nodded and walked to the door. Without looking back at me he said "Do what you feel you need to do Isabella. We leave again in six hours. Don't forget to meet with Aro." And he left the room.
As I made my way to the throne room, all I could think was that he had used my full name and had been so cold. I guess I shouldn't be surprised. What did I expect? He opened everything up to me and I couldn't reciprocate. In fact I'm now backing out of what we did have. How could I expect anything else from him?
I arrived at the throne room, straightened my shoulders and entered. Once stood before Aro, I bowed. "Master Aro, you wanted to see me?"
"Yes Isabella. I wanted to see how you fared with the part of your mission that has been completed so far. I know that with your history with the Cullen's, it may have been difficult for you."
I met his eye. "No Master. It is my honor to perform my duties as an Elite Guard, and I shall perform them without fail or hesitation. I experienced no difficulties."
He smiled at me. "Very well Isabella. I am delighted to hear such a report. Your group is expected to leave again in just under six hours. Are there any issues that you would like to address with me before your departure?"
I nodded. "Yes Master Aro. I would like to be assigned my own quarters."
Aro's eyebrows inched up, but he didn't question me. "Very well my dear. That can be arranged. Go and see Giana and she will assign rooms to you. You may get settled prior to leaving this evening if you wish." He leaned forward and steepled his fingers beneath his chin. "I hope that you would feel comfortable enough with us that you would know that you can speak to us concerning any difficulties you may be having my dear? We are here to listen and help whenever possible."
I dipped my head in appreciation. "Thank you Master, but all is well. I simply felt the need for my own quarters."
He leaned back, eyeing me knowingly. "Splendid my dear. You are dismissed and I wish you a safe and productive mission."
I bowed deeply. "Thank you Masters."
Once I got my rooms assigned, I packed up my things from Demetri's rooms and got everything moved before repacking my bag for the continuing mission. I was moving on auto pilot. I felt cold and resolved inside. It was a very familiar feeling and I settled right into it. It was safe. I couldn't be hurt here, locked within myself. It was how I had lived and survived for the prior four years before meeting Demetri after all. It felt like slipping back into comfortable shoes that you didn't realize you missed. Maybe this cold, detached existence was meant to be for me? I lifted my chin and straightened my spine. Yes, no more sentimental bullshit for me. I resolutely ignored the squeeze I felt in my chest at the thought.
Demetri, Felix and I rejoined Alec and Jane in the garage and got settled into an SUV. The ride to the airport was silent. There was a tension in the air that everyone seemed to feel. Once on the jet, Demetri briefed us on our destination. We were going to Alaska, his last pin pointed location of Alice Cullen. It seems that she was now with the Denali Coven.
I found it interesting that she was alone. I thought sure that Jasper would be where ever she was, but I chose not to comment. Demetri would find them. We settled in for the long flight with Felix, Alec and Jane eyeing Demetri and me curiously. I didn't meet anyone's eyes. I didn't feel like answering questions.
Three books and much silence later, we landed and departed the airport in yet another black SUV. We didn't get a hotel suite this time, choosing instead to go straight to the Denali's. We donned our cloaks and approached the front door which Eleazar opened before we could knock. Alec and Felix had circled around the back of the house just in case and it was good that they did. Alice had tried to escape out the back and Felix walked her around to the front.
Eleazar looked affronted. "Demetri, what is the meaning of this? Why have you come here and why does Felix restrain Alice Cullen now?"
Demetri was all business. "Alice Cullen, as well as the rest of her coven, is wanted in Volterra for questioning regarding breach of the law." Eleazar looked shocked and turned toward Alice.
She struggled in Felix' hold. "I have done no such thing!"
Demetri turned to her. "Then you have nothing to fear from us. You will have a fair trial and if all is as you say, you will be on your way, unharmed. Cease your struggle, it is fruitless. I am not here to execute punishment, only to retrieve you and deliver you to Volterra. Come quietly and the trip will be relatively pleasant. Continue to struggle and Alec will subdue you."
She sagged in Felix' hold. Demetri eyed her coldly. "Do we have your word of honor that you will come quietly and not attempt escape Alice Cullen?"
She looked at him with contempt. "Yes, you have my word." Her lip curled a bit. "Will you at least give me the chance to gather my belongings?"
He moved to stand before her and stared down at her. "You have thirty minutes to do so. We will depart then."
I dropped my hood and spoke. "You might want to limit her amount of luggage. She tends to pack excessively."
Alice whipped her head around and gasped. "I didn't see this at all. I haven't been able to 'see' you since we left, and now I didn't see any of you coming. Does that have to do with you Bella?"
I stood stoic. "I will not answer your questions Alice Cullen. That does not fall within the scope of my duties."
Her eyes widened when she got a look at my pendant. "You're a Volturri Guard. How could you betray us like this, especially after all the money Edward gave you to stay quiet?"
I gazed at her coldly. "I will not answer your questions Alice Cullen. It is not in my duties and I have no wish to do so." She shook her head in disgust.
Demetri addressed her. "You will be allowed one standard sized bag and you are now down to twenty five minutes to pack before we depart, with or without it."
She scoffed and jerked her arm from Felix' grasp. "Fine." She huffed her way into the house and Demetri motioned with his head for Felix to follow her.
Demetri turned back to Eleazar. "If, during their trial it comes to light that any of your coven had knowledge of this breach of the law, you may all be required to report to Volterra. It would be in your best interests to do so voluntarily, to show good faith." He pinned him with his gaze. "You understand my meaning Eleazar?"
Eleazar looked discomfited but nodded. "I understand you fully Demetri. We will ready ourselves for a visit."
I found my way back to the vehicle to wait. Jane joined me a moment later. "Are you alright Bella?"
I looked at her and smirked. "Of course. Why wouldn't I be? The Cullen's don't get to me."
She took out a pack of Dunhills and offered me one. Oh hell, why not? "Thanks."
She nodded and we lit up. "I'm not talking about the Cullen's at all Bella." She gave me a sidelong glance and I stiffened. I knew this was probably coming, but I really didn't want to get into answering or deflecting.
"What else could there be bothering me Jane?"
Her brows shot up. "So I've just been imagining the huge frigid wall between you and Demetri then? Because if I have then I need to hone my observational skills. I must be a bit rusty." She smirked.
I took a drag off my cigarette and blew it out, looking at her through the smoke. She was still smirking. "Alright. Shit. Ya got me, okay? I told him I need space and I moved out of his rooms. Things were getting too complicated for my tastes. That's the story." I shrugged and stared off into the distance.
"Ah, I see." She nodded. "He was getting too serious and you got spooked and shut down."
I shot her a dirty look. "I don't get spooked by anything. I just wanted space. I was feeling stifled."
She looked at me seriously. "Look Bella, I'm hardly one to give advice where relationships are concerned, but I've watched you two together and you fit. He's a great guy, one of the rare sincere and loyal ones, ya know? I've known him a very long time, and he genuinely loves you. Don't throw that away just because it's difficult to overcome your emotional damage. You'll come to regret it if you do, and he won't wait forever." She crushed out her cigarette and picked up the butt. "Just some advice from one who's been there. Take it for what it's worth." She walked back to the group.
Deep within me, I had to admit that her words shook me. I had considered the same things myself, but I didn't want to face any of it. It seemed easier not to. So I decided that I wouldn't. There was time for that shit later, right? I crushed out my cigarette, picked up the butt and got in the vehicle to wait.
We made our way back to the airport with Alice Cullen. It was decided that Alec would accompany her back to Italy on a commercial flight. The rest of us boarded the Volturi jet and headed to Michigan of all places. This is where Demetri had sensed Edward to be.
We rented a vehicle and drove to a wooded area where Demetri parked. "I don't have an address for this place so we'll go on foot from here. It's probably best that way anyway since we can spread out in case he tries to run. He's supposed to be very fast so if he tries to run drop him with your power Jane until we get him secured. We'll circle the house when we reach it. I'll go to the front door." He looked at me. "Bella, make sure your mental shield is covering all of us so he can't get a read on us and get a head start." I gave a sharp nod and we exited the vehicle and took off following Demetri.
We came to the edge of a clearing in which a huge log home was situated. I snorted to myself. No way would anyone ever classify it as a cabin. We all took up positions circling the clearing and began our approach closing in on the home. I was almost to the deck at the rear of the house when Edward shot out of the back door. I had a nano second to tackle him which I did, wrapping my arms and legs around him, taking him to the ground. I still had a bit of newborn strength, so it wasn't a contest.
Hearing the struggle, the others came running and Felix grabbed him and stood him up. He looked distressed and defiant. Demetri walked up to him. "Edward Cullen, we are here to take you back to Italy to stand trial before the kings for breaching the law. You will come with us quietly, or we will dismember you for your journey. Which do you choose?"
Edward struggled in Felix' grasp. "You can't do this! I haven't breached any laws! I demand you let me go now!" He looked around at us wildly. "Why can't I hear any of your thoughts?"
Demetri slapped him. "My question remains unanswered and I'm losing patience. Will you come quietly or will you be dismembered?"
Edward scoffed. "And you didn't address my concerns! I'm innocent, and therefore you can't just abduct me like this! Carlisle is an old friend of Aro's. I'm sure he won't be happy that I've been treated thusly!"
Demetri looked over at Jane and nodded. She directed her gaze at Edward and he dropped in Felix' hold, screaming. She held him under for a few moments and he panted, trying to recover.
Demetri lifted his head. "That was your last opportunity to cooperate." He grasped Edwards head and twisted while pulling. Between Demetri and Felix, it only took seconds to have him in pieces. We all picked up parts of him and made our way back to the SUV.
Felix dropped his torso and lifted the back gate on the vehicle pulling out two large duffel bags. We all stuffed our various pieces into the two bags, Felix loaded it in the back and we were on our way.
We sneaked through at the airport and boarded the jet bound this time for Chicago. I sat next to Jane eying the two black duffel bags. I smirked over to her. "He's much more tolerable that way, I must say."
She laughed and nodded. "I bet. Just a few minutes in his presence and I was ready to toss a lighter on his ass." She looked at me as she offered me a cigarette before lighting her own. "You were in love with him? Jesus Bella, no wonder you're fucked up."
I punched her shoulder. "Shut up bitch. We're all allowed one big fuck up in love." I nodded my head at the bags. "That was mine."
She pinned me with a hard gaze. "Exactly."
I rolled my eyes. She wasn't exactly being subtle.
Chicago turned out to be the chosen hiding place of Emmett and Rosalie. They were in Edwards old house from his human life right in the middle of the suburbs so we ditched the cloaks and once again, circled the house while Demetri knocked on the front door. Both Rosalie and Emmett answered so we all came back around the front and entered.
Rosalie got right to the point. "What does the Volturi want with us?"
Before Demetri could answer, Emmett placed a hand on Rosalie's shoulder. "Maybe we should all go sit down to talk about this Rose?"
She shrugged off his hand. "No, screw that. I want to know what they want with us because if it has anything to do with Edwards penchant for screwing around with human girls," She glared at Demetri, "then we don't want any part of it. I'm not taking a fall because of his weird fixation."
Demetri straightened his spine and we all stepped up to flank him. "We are not here to decide your innocence or guilt. We are here under orders to collect all members of the Cullen Coven and deliver you to Italy where you will all stand trial for breach of the law. All will be decided there."
Rosalie swept her gaze over me. "Ah Bella. Why am I not surprised to see you? Blow all the money and now you work for the Italians? Better than whoring yourself out I guess, which I had money on as being your profession of choice when you got desperate."
I smirked. "Rosalie, I see you're still the same bitch you always were."
Demetri stepped in. "Despite how charming this reunion may be, we have orders that will be carried out. Will you come willingly, or in pieces? Think carefully. I won't offer again."
Emmett stepped up like he was going to protest but Rosalie stopped him with a hand on his arm. "Fine. We'll come quietly. Do we have time to pack?"
Demetri nodded sharply. "We will give you thirty minutes, and then we depart."
She turned and looked back at us, motioning toward the living room. "You may as well sit while you wait. We'll be down shortly." They disappeared up the stairs and we all took seats in the living room.
I flopped on the couch next to Felix. "Godammit. I was really hoping that she wouldn't come quietly. I was looking forward to tearing that bitch to pieces."
Jane smirked. "It's a long journey back to Italy Bella. You may yet get your chance. It doesn't seem like she's going to be quiet for long for any reason."
I chuckled darkly. "You're right of course Jane. I guess I'm just too pessimistic lately." I heard a small scoff from Demetri and my heart squeezed a bit. I looked away and fell silent.
Felix sat up. "Yeah well, I'll take out the guy. He looked like he was spoiling for a fight and I've been bored out of my fucking mind with this mission. Pulling apart pussy boy was the most fun I've had in a while."
I sighed. "Well it's almost over. We only have one more Cullen coven member to retrieve and that's Jasper." I looked at Demetri. "Were you able to find out any information on the last woman Edward had a relationship with?"
He nodded. "Yes, I was able to confirm through various records and a death certificate that she died in an automobile accident sixteen months after the Cullen's moved away from her. She had no siblings and her parents were older. They are also both dead now, from natural causes. I don't believe that further investigation into her contacts is warranted, but I will submit my full report to the kings and let them decide.
My inclination is for all of us to make our way back to Italy with these two before going to Texas to retrieve Jasper Whitlock. He is a very proficient fighter, and I believe that he is with his former Whitlock coven members, Peter and Charlotte Whitlock; both also proficient fighters. We may need to be at our full strength and compliment to deal with them." We all nodded our agreement.
Emmett and Rosalie descended the stairs with their bags and we departed. Once in the vehicle, Emmett looked at me and smiled. "Despite the circumstances, it's good to see you again Bella. I hope there aren't any hard feelings." Rosalie snorted and crossed her arms over her chest.
I rolled my eyes and then looked at Emmett. "It's good to see you too Emmett. There really aren't any hard feelings on my part, although many of your 'family' members seem to think it was me who ratted you all out." Rosalie shot me a death glare. "It wasn't by the way. Whether you all choose to believe it or not. It was Victoria, one of the nomads. I was just living my life, minding my own business when Demetri came for me, so yeah. That's how it is."
He nodded and smiled at me. "I'm sorry that happened to you Bella."
I smiled back at him ruefully. "I'm not sorry Emmett so you shouldn't be either. Since meeting all of you, I had always felt that I was meant to be a vampire and I don't regret it. I am where I was always meant to be."
Rosalie looked at me. "Yeah, being a bloodsucking murderer suits you Bella."
I grinned widely at her. "Why thank you for the compliment Rosalie! I love it, really. It's much easier to kill people now than it was as a human."
Emmett's eyes were wide. "What do you mean by that Bella?"
"Well Emmett, after my windfall, I found myself the best human instructors in the art of killing that money could buy. It took me three years of hard work, but I became the best contract killer that I could be." I eyed Rosalie with malice. "That was my profession of choice and I was damn good at it. And now, I don't have to waste all of that good blood, as Demetri liked to point out." I smiled maliciously.
Emmett whistled lowly and sat back. "Jesus Bella. That's something I never pictured; you as a contract killer. My mind just refuses to go there." He shook his head slowly.
"Yeah well, you can ask Demetri if you don't believe me. He saw me at work the night he came to get me." I shrugged. "It was good money, not that I really needed it, but now that I'm immortal, I'm happy that I added to the fortune Edward paid me. I'm sure living forever costs a bit of cash."
Rosalie curled her lip at me. "Maybe we'll all be lucky and someone will toss a lit match your way one of these days."
I grinned at her. "That may be so Rosalie, but I'd bet good money that you won't be around to see it happen, so yeah, you first bitch."
She turned her head to look out the window and fell silent. Jane smirked at me and we bumped fists. We sat back and rode out the rest of the trip to the airport, everyone remaining silent.
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