Smutshot Series
Title: Burning Emotion
Completed: 09-02-2022
Pairing: Bella/Aro
Location: Volterra Castle, Italy
Word Count: 9690
Completed: 09-02-2022
Pairing: Bella/Aro
Location: Volterra Castle, Italy
Word Count: 9690
Burning Emotion
The phone rang and rang. After what seemed like forever, most likely because of my inner panic at the situation, I finally heard someone say in Italian, “Volterra Castle, this is Gianna. How may I direct your call?”
I let out a breath, then replied in Italian myself, “Hello, Gianna. My name is Isabella Swan. I know my request will be a bit unorthodox, but would it be possible for me to speak with the brothers? What I have to say involves the Cullen coven.”
The light-hearted tone to her voice was missing when she replied nearly a full 30 seconds afterward, “Please hold, and I will see if someone is available to speak with you.”
As an Italian love song came through the phone, I looked down at today’s newspaper and winced at the picture underneath the headline. It was the Cullen house and surrounding woods, lit up in a blazing fire. The headline read in bold lettering, “Doctor’s Former Mansion In Flames. Cause Yet To Be Determined.”
I had heard Charlie talking to the Fire Chief this morning when they finally got the fire out. He said the fire started in the house, and it was way hotter than they expected, but there was no sign anywhere of an accelerant.
Me. I was the accelerant, and I was terrified. I needed help, and this was the only help available to me. I just hoped they believed me.
It took more than 20 minutes for anyone to pick back up the phone, but when it happened, it was an Italian male speaking English, “Miss Swan, how may I help you?”
I let out a breath, then said, “I don’t mean to be rude, but may I ask who I’m speaking with?”
I heard a slight chuckle in the background, then heard the male say, “My name is Aro, Miss Swan.”
I responded right away, “Oh, thank God. I assume I’m on speakerphone, and that your brothers Caius and Marcus are a part of this conversation as well. Do you have access to the internet? I know you want me to get to the point of the call, and I will, Sir… I promise. The proof is on the internet.”
I heard another male say that they, of course, had internet access. I immediately said, “Please access this website address. It’s www.forksdaily.com. That website is our local paper. This morning’s headline is the reason for my call.”
I heard 3 distinct hitched breaths only a few seconds later, then Aro said seriously, “I think we need a bit more information to go on than just this article, Miss Swan. Please fill us in.”
I quickly went through moving here and meeting the Cullens, then the whole Edward relationship aspect and the run-in with the nomads. When I told them of Edward sucking the venom-tainted blood from James’ bite and me being hospitalized, all three of them hissed, then Aro cursed in Italian, “Che fottuto idiota!”
I couldn’t help but agree, “Yes, quite a fucking idiot, Sir, because I don’t think he got it all. I started noticing things after I was released from the hospital. I didn’t tell anyone, because I was honestly afraid the Cullens wouldn’t help me. Edward had made his feelings about me being turned quite clear that night.”
Caius sounded angry in the background, but then he asked, “What were the things you noticed, Cara?”
I let out a shaky breath. Here goes. “It was little things, at first. I would pick something up, and after a minute, I would drop it because it was hot. I didn’t understand, because it was the normal temperature when I picked it up. Before the Cullens left me 3 days ago, it had gotten to the point where things were being burned.”
Three very menacing growls could be heard, causing me to whimper slightly at the thought that maybe they would refuse to help me, but then Marcus cooed, “Forgive us, Little One. Please continue.”
My breathing hitched, and my voice was significantly softer when I offered, “I had a habit of tightening my fists around the arms of the chairs I sat in when Edward and I would argue. I started noticing that the wood would be burned where my fingertips had been, or if it was cloth, the material would look almost like a cigarette burn where each of them had been. When they left, I obviously knew of you and the laws, and I was so pissed… sorry, upset.”
Caius chuckled, “Have no fear, Isabella, you may use whichever words suit your emotions the best. We are not sticklers for propriety.”
I relaxed with my own chuckle, “Thank you, Sir. I was pissed that they would leave me when the law stated I needed to be turned and guided or killed. With the friendship Carlisle claimed to have with you, I knew I would be found out, and I didn’t think you’d favor turning a Cullen cast-off. They had essentially dealt me a death sentence.”
I shook my head. I needed to get to the point. “Anyway, last night, I went to the Cullen house. I wanted to see if they were truly gone. The house was deserted, of course, and all the furniture was covered. My anger rose so fast and so far, that my vision tinted red. I found myself in the garage, a sledgehammer in my hand. Before I really knew what I had done, I had taken the sledgehammer to half of the main floor furniture, starting with Edward’s piano. Then she walked in.”
Aro asked softly, “Who, Isabella?”
My voice was shaky when I said, “Victoria… James’ mate… the female of the nomads. She blamed me for James’ death… said I had to die. I was so scared, still so angry, and I don’t know how I…”
I felt like I was going to hyperventilate, but I let out several trembling breaths before saying, “It was me, Sirs. She caught fire right in front of me, in the house.”
I broke down then, tears falling from my eyes, “I killed her, and I’m afraid I’ll hurt my Dad. Please, Sirs, I need help. I don’t know how to control this.”
Marcus, his voice soft and comforting, assured me, “Calm your breathing, Isabella. Slow, deep breaths. There is a simple solution, which I will explain once you are calm.”
Once my breathing calmed and my tears slowed, Marcus explained, “We will send a guard out, who will escort you back to the castle. Once here, Aro can assure the truth of your statements, and we can begin the process of helping you. You will not hurt your father, Dear.”
I shook my head, “I don’t know if that will work, Sir. I know of Aro’s gift. Edward could never read me, and Carlisle once surmised that he thought I had a shield of some sort. Then last night… once I realized what was happening, I wanted to make sure she was dead. I stood there in the house with her as it went up in flames. I think Carlisle was right and the shield protects me from the fire. My clothes didn’t even smell of smoke when I got home, let alone have any burn marks.”
I let out a breath, then replied in Italian myself, “Hello, Gianna. My name is Isabella Swan. I know my request will be a bit unorthodox, but would it be possible for me to speak with the brothers? What I have to say involves the Cullen coven.”
The light-hearted tone to her voice was missing when she replied nearly a full 30 seconds afterward, “Please hold, and I will see if someone is available to speak with you.”
As an Italian love song came through the phone, I looked down at today’s newspaper and winced at the picture underneath the headline. It was the Cullen house and surrounding woods, lit up in a blazing fire. The headline read in bold lettering, “Doctor’s Former Mansion In Flames. Cause Yet To Be Determined.”
I had heard Charlie talking to the Fire Chief this morning when they finally got the fire out. He said the fire started in the house, and it was way hotter than they expected, but there was no sign anywhere of an accelerant.
Me. I was the accelerant, and I was terrified. I needed help, and this was the only help available to me. I just hoped they believed me.
It took more than 20 minutes for anyone to pick back up the phone, but when it happened, it was an Italian male speaking English, “Miss Swan, how may I help you?”
I let out a breath, then said, “I don’t mean to be rude, but may I ask who I’m speaking with?”
I heard a slight chuckle in the background, then heard the male say, “My name is Aro, Miss Swan.”
I responded right away, “Oh, thank God. I assume I’m on speakerphone, and that your brothers Caius and Marcus are a part of this conversation as well. Do you have access to the internet? I know you want me to get to the point of the call, and I will, Sir… I promise. The proof is on the internet.”
I heard another male say that they, of course, had internet access. I immediately said, “Please access this website address. It’s www.forksdaily.com. That website is our local paper. This morning’s headline is the reason for my call.”
I heard 3 distinct hitched breaths only a few seconds later, then Aro said seriously, “I think we need a bit more information to go on than just this article, Miss Swan. Please fill us in.”
I quickly went through moving here and meeting the Cullens, then the whole Edward relationship aspect and the run-in with the nomads. When I told them of Edward sucking the venom-tainted blood from James’ bite and me being hospitalized, all three of them hissed, then Aro cursed in Italian, “Che fottuto idiota!”
I couldn’t help but agree, “Yes, quite a fucking idiot, Sir, because I don’t think he got it all. I started noticing things after I was released from the hospital. I didn’t tell anyone, because I was honestly afraid the Cullens wouldn’t help me. Edward had made his feelings about me being turned quite clear that night.”
Caius sounded angry in the background, but then he asked, “What were the things you noticed, Cara?”
I let out a shaky breath. Here goes. “It was little things, at first. I would pick something up, and after a minute, I would drop it because it was hot. I didn’t understand, because it was the normal temperature when I picked it up. Before the Cullens left me 3 days ago, it had gotten to the point where things were being burned.”
Three very menacing growls could be heard, causing me to whimper slightly at the thought that maybe they would refuse to help me, but then Marcus cooed, “Forgive us, Little One. Please continue.”
My breathing hitched, and my voice was significantly softer when I offered, “I had a habit of tightening my fists around the arms of the chairs I sat in when Edward and I would argue. I started noticing that the wood would be burned where my fingertips had been, or if it was cloth, the material would look almost like a cigarette burn where each of them had been. When they left, I obviously knew of you and the laws, and I was so pissed… sorry, upset.”
Caius chuckled, “Have no fear, Isabella, you may use whichever words suit your emotions the best. We are not sticklers for propriety.”
I relaxed with my own chuckle, “Thank you, Sir. I was pissed that they would leave me when the law stated I needed to be turned and guided or killed. With the friendship Carlisle claimed to have with you, I knew I would be found out, and I didn’t think you’d favor turning a Cullen cast-off. They had essentially dealt me a death sentence.”
I shook my head. I needed to get to the point. “Anyway, last night, I went to the Cullen house. I wanted to see if they were truly gone. The house was deserted, of course, and all the furniture was covered. My anger rose so fast and so far, that my vision tinted red. I found myself in the garage, a sledgehammer in my hand. Before I really knew what I had done, I had taken the sledgehammer to half of the main floor furniture, starting with Edward’s piano. Then she walked in.”
Aro asked softly, “Who, Isabella?”
My voice was shaky when I said, “Victoria… James’ mate… the female of the nomads. She blamed me for James’ death… said I had to die. I was so scared, still so angry, and I don’t know how I…”
I felt like I was going to hyperventilate, but I let out several trembling breaths before saying, “It was me, Sirs. She caught fire right in front of me, in the house.”
I broke down then, tears falling from my eyes, “I killed her, and I’m afraid I’ll hurt my Dad. Please, Sirs, I need help. I don’t know how to control this.”
Marcus, his voice soft and comforting, assured me, “Calm your breathing, Isabella. Slow, deep breaths. There is a simple solution, which I will explain once you are calm.”
Once my breathing calmed and my tears slowed, Marcus explained, “We will send a guard out, who will escort you back to the castle. Once here, Aro can assure the truth of your statements, and we can begin the process of helping you. You will not hurt your father, Dear.”
I shook my head, “I don’t know if that will work, Sir. I know of Aro’s gift. Edward could never read me, and Carlisle once surmised that he thought I had a shield of some sort. Then last night… once I realized what was happening, I wanted to make sure she was dead. I stood there in the house with her as it went up in flames. I think Carlisle was right and the shield protects me from the fire. My clothes didn’t even smell of smoke when I got home, let alone have any burn marks.”
Aro was quick to offer an alternative, though. “We’ll send Demetri. If this Victoria was at the Cullen home, as Isabella states, Demetri will sense it. Isabella, what are your interests? It will help us make a cover story.”
My mind went blank. Was this really happening? I said the only thing I could think of. “I’m a bookworm, Sir. I am nearly always reading something, and my ideal happy place would be filled to the brim with old leather-bound writings, tomes, and scrolls.”
Aro chuckled, “Excellent. Marcus, pull the Literature Program paperwork. Isabella, I will email you a set of forms, similar to your college applications. I would need it filled out and returned within 3 hours, so Demetri can have the proper paperwork when he arrives.”
I let out a long breath in relief. “Absolutely, Sir. Please email it to IsabellaSwan@gmail.com. All of my college-related materials go through that email address. My father is Chief of Police here, Sir, and I heard him talking to the Fire Chief earlier. They have determined where the fire was set in the house, and that the fire burned hotter than normal, but can’t find an accelerant. Dad wants them to look deeper.”
Caius hummed, “Which means humans will be crawling all over the scene. Demetri will need to confirm your story once it is nightfall.”
I heard my laptop ding, so I quickly grabbed it, opened my email program, and saw a new email from Corso di Letteratura Avanzata dell'Università di Volterra (Volterra University Advanced Literature Program). Attached was a several-page application in English that looked extremely detailed, and an entrance exam.
I chuckled, “I have it, Sir. I’m so glad I chose Italian as my foreign language throughout high school. I’ll at least be able to communicate. I’ll fill this out and send it back as soon as our conversation is through.”
Caius explained, “Please be as thorough as you would for any other application, Isabella. We wouldn’t want your father to have any suspicions that won’t be laid to rest. Demetri will speak to you privately before showing up at your home. If you need assistance with the cover, let him know, and he will take over.”
I nodded, “Of course, Sir.”
Minutes later, I was hanging up the phone and diving into the fillable pdf forms. It took me every bit of 2 hours to complete them with as much detail as I could, then as I hit the send button, I sent up a prayer that I would somehow keep a hold of myself until the Volturi guard reached me.
~~~~~
Over the next 48 hours, I packed 2 bags of clothes and personal items, attended school, worked my shifts at Newton’s, and did everything else I would do on a normal day. I was just being released for the night from Mrs. Newton when my phone rang. I answered as I waved, “Thanks, Mrs. Newton. Have a good night,” then said into the phone, “Hello?”
The deep male voice said, “Isabella Swan?”
I answered while opening the door to my truck, “Yes.”
The man said seriously. “My name is Demetri.”
I quickly replied, “Oh, hello.”
I visibly relaxed when I heard him say, “I just left the Cullen house. I am on my way to your home. Is there a cover made, or will you be needing assistance?”
I closed my truck door, then offered, “You’ll reach my house before I do. I’m just getting off of work. That’s good. Charlie will be suspicious, at first, because I haven’t told him. It would make him more suspicious if I had. I’m not the type to get overly excited about the prospect of things. I haven’t told him the names of anywhere I applied, because nothing was confirmed. Him knowing I was applying at all was enough.”
He made a small hum in confirmation, so I continued, “Knowing all of that, I’m going to be surprised Volterra College even considered me, let alone that I was accepted. When that happens, as long as you are wearing contacts and have hand warmers, Charlie won’t suspect a thing.”
He seemed confused as he asked me, “Are those not standard when dealing with humans?” Then he groaned, “Fucking bottom-feeders. They’ve gotten away with their ‘lifestyle’ for too long.”
I chuckled, “Oh, I could tell you quite a few stories. Anyway, I’m about to leave work. I have 2 bags packed. Is that okay?”
He tsked, “Not nearly enough for moving abroad, but you can pack a few suitcases while your father calls the school -namely Aro’s cell phone- to confirm its authenticity.”
I let out a breath as I started my truck. “I wasn’t sure. The brothers never stated how they would be sending you.”
He chuckled, “We are flying by private jet, Miss Swan. Either way, the cost of your trip would be covered. I will see you soon.”
I pulled into the driveway 15 minutes later, only to see a sleek black Escalade parked on the side of the road near the mailbox. I pulled my backpack, jacket, and purse from the truck. After kicking the door closed with my foot, I walked up to the door, sparing another look at the Escalade.
I opened the door and called out in my usual fashion as my backpack fell from my shoulder, “Dad, I’m home. Hey, do you know who that Escal-”
I turned in time to see both Dad and Demetri standing in the kitchen, so I bit my lip with a wince, “Oh, crap. Sorry. I didn’t know the company was for you. I can go to my room if this is cop shop talk, Dad.”
Charlie shook his head, “Not my visitor. Apparently, the man came to see you, Bells.”
I gave Charlie a confused look as Demetri took a step forward and held out his hand, “Miss Swan, my name is Demetri Nikolas. I’m from Volterra College Advanced Literature Program.”
My open purse and keys went clanging to the floor as my mouth opened wide in fake shock, contents from my purse skittering loudly across the floor. I stammered, “Volterra Co- wait, what? Really? Did I… I didn’t even think you’d consider me, with the deadlines. Did I really get in?”
I tried to interject a bit of hope at the end of my nonsense. I hoped Charlie went for this. Demetri still had his hand out, so I rushed out as I shook his hand, “Crap, I’m sorry. I never truly expected to hear from anyone at Volterra College when I applied, Mr. Nikolas. It was a dream I thought wouldn’t come true.”
Charlie chuckled as Demetri assured me, “You have, indeed, been accepted, Miss Swan. You should have been sent 2 packets by mail to explain when classes were scheduled to start, and when I would be here to escort you to the school. Did you not receive them?”
Before I could say a thing, Charlie offered, “I haven’t figured out why yet, but mail in all of Forks has been a bit unreliable lately.”
Demetri hummed, “Which explains why you both are unprepared for my arrival. I have copies of everything if you’d like to sit down and talk.”
Over the next 45 minutes, Demetri went over the results of my manufactured GED and entrance exam, my placements as far as the advanced program, and showed us the brochure of the building my room was in. I interjected, since I still saw a bit of doubt in Charlie’s eyes, “Wait. You said I was taking 15-16th Century Literature, 15-16th Century History, and Modern Literature Fundamentals all in my first year. I was under the impression that I had to pass Modern before I would be allowed to study anything that far back.”
Demetri smiled as he nodded, “Usually, Miss Swan, that would be true. The Advanced Literature Program likes to be assured that you are versed in the nuances of modern literature before you delve into the more… hmm, let’s say sophisticated… nuances of earlier literature. For you, it will just be a refresher course. Take a look.”
He pulled out my actual transcripts from Forks High and Desert Vista High in Phoenix, then pointed out all the AP classes I was in. “You had exceptional grades in every advanced placement literature and history class you took, Miss Swan… all 4 years. Then, in your application, you showed an acute eye for detail. You explained yourself quite well when answering each of the questions on your entrance exam. This is why you are placed in both 15-16th century classes during your first year. I have no doubt you will do well, and when you do, each of the Middle Ages subjects will be opened up to you.”
I grinned at him, then at Charlie. Charlie picked up my application and entrance exam. Both had the name of the school and the phone number on them; both also had my signature. “No offense, Bells, but I can’t feel good about letting you leave here with a stranger until I check him out. Let me make a couple of phone calls.”
He took the application and the cordless phone from the table, then walked up the stairs. I let out a breath when I heard his bedroom door close. Demetri’s eyes stayed on the stairs for a second before he whispered, “You did well. If I hadn’t spoken to you on the phone, I would have thought your reactions were genuine. How are you doing?”
I shook my head, “I’m alright, for now. Just hoping he goes for it. I really don’t want my Dad to get hurt, and I have no clue how to stop it when it happens. Go feel the seam of the couch arm. The undersides of the rocking chair arms in my room look like someone took a torch to them.”
Demetri silently stood and walked to the couch, then bent to check the arm of the chair. He came back, then whispered as he sat, “The brothers believe your power has advanced beyond your human control because of this.”
He lifted the silver cuff bracelet on my wrist, then rubbed his thumb gently over the bite mark from James. The cool touch calmed me noticeably. “Even though I am a stranger, you just relaxed at my touch. Explain, please.”
I gave him a sad smile, “After James’ bite, nothing felt the same. I’m not even counting my relationship with idiot #1… things just don’t feel right. Charlie’s hugs feel too loose. My clothes don’t feel like they fit the same. I’m always either ready to hit someone in anger or hyperventilate from panic. The only thing that feels right is the touch of your kind. Your touch, just now, wasn’t too warm like it was when I shook your hand. Now… how’s it going up there? I don’t have your spidey senses.”
Demetri chuckled, “Aro is currently in the mode of college headmaster. He is explaining that you applied only 3 months ago, but your scores were all excellent. You already have a deep knowledge of 17-18th century literature -before even reaching college- and the board decided they would be crazy to deny your entry. With the degree you are interested in, you have the potential to be a valued professor at the school down the road, and truly qualified ancient literature professors are hard to come by these days. I am a legitimate recruiting escort for the college and should have all the papers to prove your acceptance and class plan. He’s now trying to convince your father that it would sadden several of the board if you were not to be seated in your classes come the start of term in a few days.”
I couldn’t help but chuckle softly, “I doubt I’d be that hot of a topic, but whatever works.”
After another few minutes, I could see Demetri’s eyes snap up. I started getting nervous. Something must be wrong.
Two full minutes later, Demetri’s eyes moved to my hands, which I had unconsciously clenched around the chair's wooden arms. He shook his head, then held both of his hands out palm up.
“All is fine, Isabella. Place your hands in mine.”
My hands trembled as I released the chair, and I took a shaky breath as I placed my hands palm down on top of his. It took less than 30 seconds for the trembling to stop, then another 15 seconds after his hands wrapped comfortably around mine for me to relax completely. “There we are. You did well.”
I let out a breath of, “Thanks. That was pretty brave, though, considering I can hurt a vampire with whatever this shit is.”
He smirked, but then said seriously, “I don’t think you would have hurt me. Would you like to know why?”
When I nodded, my hands still in his, he offered, “Each person has a unique wavelength, similar to DNA in its uniqueness. My gift uses that wavelength to be able to track people. I am, what some people have crassly dubbed, the Volturi bloodhound. I always find my target. When you first came into the house, you had no wavelength… almost as if you didn’t exist. I believe your shield was protecting you, knowing there would be danger in your home. Isabella, I can see your wavelength now. Right now, your guard is down and you are trusting me to help you. I believe you only did what you did last night because you were so angry and scared, and that woman -who was already a threat because she was a vampire- told you she was going to kill you in revenge for her mate’s death.”
I let his words roll around in my head for a full minute before asking hopefully, “So you think… maybe… Aro will be able to read me?”
His head tilted slightly as he looked at me, then he asked, “You actually want him to?”
I nodded before saying in a fervent whisper, “Hell, yes. I want him to see it all, and know for a fact that I only told him the truth. I want them to help me figure this out, Demetri, and I’m not stupid enough to think they’ll help a human me for no reason. Christ, I just told them that someone who lived with them for over 50 years, someone they considered a friend, just broke one of the biggest vampire laws by leaving me with a heartbeat. Would you want to help me if I told you that?”
After a second, he nodded and shrugged, which looked odd with the dapper Italian suit he was in. “When you put it like that, I see your point.”
Demetri gently let my hands go while flicking his eyes toward the stairs. He smiled, then asked me conversationally, “Do you have any concerns about your approved course load?”
I shook my head at the quick switch of topic but knew why, so I said seriously, “As I stated in my application, I tend to favor older literature. The older the better, as far as I’m concerned. I know I need to take a few of the more modern courses for the degree I’m going for, but modern literature just doesn’t interest me. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll be on top of my assignments, I guess I just find the nuances and intricacies of older literature to be fascinating.”
“Hey, Bells?” I turned to see Charlie standing at the bottom of the stairs watching me. “Can I talk to you in the living room for a minute?”
I excused myself, then followed Charlie into the living room. He whispered slowly, “Sounds like you really wanna do this. Mr. Nikolas is legit, and I was able to talk to the head of the school. It sounds like this school is seriously hard to get into. Did you know this advanced program you’re in only gives out 5 scholarships every year?”
I nodded, “That’s why I didn’t think I’d get in, Dad. When they give out a scholarship to an international applicant, they do it for the whole shebang. Tuition, boarding… everything is included… for the whole 4 years I would be there. And this school, Dad? It’s one of the best in the world for me. With a degree from this school, I'm practically writing my own ticket. I could literally work anywhere I wanted. I wouldn’t have to worry about finding a job after college like most kids do. I swear, if I had any inclination that I had a chance, I would have told you that I had applied to an international college, Dad. I honestly wasn’t trying to hide it.”
My mind went blank. Was this really happening? I said the only thing I could think of. “I’m a bookworm, Sir. I am nearly always reading something, and my ideal happy place would be filled to the brim with old leather-bound writings, tomes, and scrolls.”
Aro chuckled, “Excellent. Marcus, pull the Literature Program paperwork. Isabella, I will email you a set of forms, similar to your college applications. I would need it filled out and returned within 3 hours, so Demetri can have the proper paperwork when he arrives.”
I let out a long breath in relief. “Absolutely, Sir. Please email it to IsabellaSwan@gmail.com. All of my college-related materials go through that email address. My father is Chief of Police here, Sir, and I heard him talking to the Fire Chief earlier. They have determined where the fire was set in the house, and that the fire burned hotter than normal, but can’t find an accelerant. Dad wants them to look deeper.”
Caius hummed, “Which means humans will be crawling all over the scene. Demetri will need to confirm your story once it is nightfall.”
I heard my laptop ding, so I quickly grabbed it, opened my email program, and saw a new email from Corso di Letteratura Avanzata dell'Università di Volterra (Volterra University Advanced Literature Program). Attached was a several-page application in English that looked extremely detailed, and an entrance exam.
I chuckled, “I have it, Sir. I’m so glad I chose Italian as my foreign language throughout high school. I’ll at least be able to communicate. I’ll fill this out and send it back as soon as our conversation is through.”
Caius explained, “Please be as thorough as you would for any other application, Isabella. We wouldn’t want your father to have any suspicions that won’t be laid to rest. Demetri will speak to you privately before showing up at your home. If you need assistance with the cover, let him know, and he will take over.”
I nodded, “Of course, Sir.”
Minutes later, I was hanging up the phone and diving into the fillable pdf forms. It took me every bit of 2 hours to complete them with as much detail as I could, then as I hit the send button, I sent up a prayer that I would somehow keep a hold of myself until the Volturi guard reached me.
~~~~~
Over the next 48 hours, I packed 2 bags of clothes and personal items, attended school, worked my shifts at Newton’s, and did everything else I would do on a normal day. I was just being released for the night from Mrs. Newton when my phone rang. I answered as I waved, “Thanks, Mrs. Newton. Have a good night,” then said into the phone, “Hello?”
The deep male voice said, “Isabella Swan?”
I answered while opening the door to my truck, “Yes.”
The man said seriously. “My name is Demetri.”
I quickly replied, “Oh, hello.”
I visibly relaxed when I heard him say, “I just left the Cullen house. I am on my way to your home. Is there a cover made, or will you be needing assistance?”
I closed my truck door, then offered, “You’ll reach my house before I do. I’m just getting off of work. That’s good. Charlie will be suspicious, at first, because I haven’t told him. It would make him more suspicious if I had. I’m not the type to get overly excited about the prospect of things. I haven’t told him the names of anywhere I applied, because nothing was confirmed. Him knowing I was applying at all was enough.”
He made a small hum in confirmation, so I continued, “Knowing all of that, I’m going to be surprised Volterra College even considered me, let alone that I was accepted. When that happens, as long as you are wearing contacts and have hand warmers, Charlie won’t suspect a thing.”
He seemed confused as he asked me, “Are those not standard when dealing with humans?” Then he groaned, “Fucking bottom-feeders. They’ve gotten away with their ‘lifestyle’ for too long.”
I chuckled, “Oh, I could tell you quite a few stories. Anyway, I’m about to leave work. I have 2 bags packed. Is that okay?”
He tsked, “Not nearly enough for moving abroad, but you can pack a few suitcases while your father calls the school -namely Aro’s cell phone- to confirm its authenticity.”
I let out a breath as I started my truck. “I wasn’t sure. The brothers never stated how they would be sending you.”
He chuckled, “We are flying by private jet, Miss Swan. Either way, the cost of your trip would be covered. I will see you soon.”
I pulled into the driveway 15 minutes later, only to see a sleek black Escalade parked on the side of the road near the mailbox. I pulled my backpack, jacket, and purse from the truck. After kicking the door closed with my foot, I walked up to the door, sparing another look at the Escalade.
I opened the door and called out in my usual fashion as my backpack fell from my shoulder, “Dad, I’m home. Hey, do you know who that Escal-”
I turned in time to see both Dad and Demetri standing in the kitchen, so I bit my lip with a wince, “Oh, crap. Sorry. I didn’t know the company was for you. I can go to my room if this is cop shop talk, Dad.”
Charlie shook his head, “Not my visitor. Apparently, the man came to see you, Bells.”
I gave Charlie a confused look as Demetri took a step forward and held out his hand, “Miss Swan, my name is Demetri Nikolas. I’m from Volterra College Advanced Literature Program.”
My open purse and keys went clanging to the floor as my mouth opened wide in fake shock, contents from my purse skittering loudly across the floor. I stammered, “Volterra Co- wait, what? Really? Did I… I didn’t even think you’d consider me, with the deadlines. Did I really get in?”
I tried to interject a bit of hope at the end of my nonsense. I hoped Charlie went for this. Demetri still had his hand out, so I rushed out as I shook his hand, “Crap, I’m sorry. I never truly expected to hear from anyone at Volterra College when I applied, Mr. Nikolas. It was a dream I thought wouldn’t come true.”
Charlie chuckled as Demetri assured me, “You have, indeed, been accepted, Miss Swan. You should have been sent 2 packets by mail to explain when classes were scheduled to start, and when I would be here to escort you to the school. Did you not receive them?”
Before I could say a thing, Charlie offered, “I haven’t figured out why yet, but mail in all of Forks has been a bit unreliable lately.”
Demetri hummed, “Which explains why you both are unprepared for my arrival. I have copies of everything if you’d like to sit down and talk.”
Over the next 45 minutes, Demetri went over the results of my manufactured GED and entrance exam, my placements as far as the advanced program, and showed us the brochure of the building my room was in. I interjected, since I still saw a bit of doubt in Charlie’s eyes, “Wait. You said I was taking 15-16th Century Literature, 15-16th Century History, and Modern Literature Fundamentals all in my first year. I was under the impression that I had to pass Modern before I would be allowed to study anything that far back.”
Demetri smiled as he nodded, “Usually, Miss Swan, that would be true. The Advanced Literature Program likes to be assured that you are versed in the nuances of modern literature before you delve into the more… hmm, let’s say sophisticated… nuances of earlier literature. For you, it will just be a refresher course. Take a look.”
He pulled out my actual transcripts from Forks High and Desert Vista High in Phoenix, then pointed out all the AP classes I was in. “You had exceptional grades in every advanced placement literature and history class you took, Miss Swan… all 4 years. Then, in your application, you showed an acute eye for detail. You explained yourself quite well when answering each of the questions on your entrance exam. This is why you are placed in both 15-16th century classes during your first year. I have no doubt you will do well, and when you do, each of the Middle Ages subjects will be opened up to you.”
I grinned at him, then at Charlie. Charlie picked up my application and entrance exam. Both had the name of the school and the phone number on them; both also had my signature. “No offense, Bells, but I can’t feel good about letting you leave here with a stranger until I check him out. Let me make a couple of phone calls.”
He took the application and the cordless phone from the table, then walked up the stairs. I let out a breath when I heard his bedroom door close. Demetri’s eyes stayed on the stairs for a second before he whispered, “You did well. If I hadn’t spoken to you on the phone, I would have thought your reactions were genuine. How are you doing?”
I shook my head, “I’m alright, for now. Just hoping he goes for it. I really don’t want my Dad to get hurt, and I have no clue how to stop it when it happens. Go feel the seam of the couch arm. The undersides of the rocking chair arms in my room look like someone took a torch to them.”
Demetri silently stood and walked to the couch, then bent to check the arm of the chair. He came back, then whispered as he sat, “The brothers believe your power has advanced beyond your human control because of this.”
He lifted the silver cuff bracelet on my wrist, then rubbed his thumb gently over the bite mark from James. The cool touch calmed me noticeably. “Even though I am a stranger, you just relaxed at my touch. Explain, please.”
I gave him a sad smile, “After James’ bite, nothing felt the same. I’m not even counting my relationship with idiot #1… things just don’t feel right. Charlie’s hugs feel too loose. My clothes don’t feel like they fit the same. I’m always either ready to hit someone in anger or hyperventilate from panic. The only thing that feels right is the touch of your kind. Your touch, just now, wasn’t too warm like it was when I shook your hand. Now… how’s it going up there? I don’t have your spidey senses.”
Demetri chuckled, “Aro is currently in the mode of college headmaster. He is explaining that you applied only 3 months ago, but your scores were all excellent. You already have a deep knowledge of 17-18th century literature -before even reaching college- and the board decided they would be crazy to deny your entry. With the degree you are interested in, you have the potential to be a valued professor at the school down the road, and truly qualified ancient literature professors are hard to come by these days. I am a legitimate recruiting escort for the college and should have all the papers to prove your acceptance and class plan. He’s now trying to convince your father that it would sadden several of the board if you were not to be seated in your classes come the start of term in a few days.”
I couldn’t help but chuckle softly, “I doubt I’d be that hot of a topic, but whatever works.”
After another few minutes, I could see Demetri’s eyes snap up. I started getting nervous. Something must be wrong.
Two full minutes later, Demetri’s eyes moved to my hands, which I had unconsciously clenched around the chair's wooden arms. He shook his head, then held both of his hands out palm up.
“All is fine, Isabella. Place your hands in mine.”
My hands trembled as I released the chair, and I took a shaky breath as I placed my hands palm down on top of his. It took less than 30 seconds for the trembling to stop, then another 15 seconds after his hands wrapped comfortably around mine for me to relax completely. “There we are. You did well.”
I let out a breath of, “Thanks. That was pretty brave, though, considering I can hurt a vampire with whatever this shit is.”
He smirked, but then said seriously, “I don’t think you would have hurt me. Would you like to know why?”
When I nodded, my hands still in his, he offered, “Each person has a unique wavelength, similar to DNA in its uniqueness. My gift uses that wavelength to be able to track people. I am, what some people have crassly dubbed, the Volturi bloodhound. I always find my target. When you first came into the house, you had no wavelength… almost as if you didn’t exist. I believe your shield was protecting you, knowing there would be danger in your home. Isabella, I can see your wavelength now. Right now, your guard is down and you are trusting me to help you. I believe you only did what you did last night because you were so angry and scared, and that woman -who was already a threat because she was a vampire- told you she was going to kill you in revenge for her mate’s death.”
I let his words roll around in my head for a full minute before asking hopefully, “So you think… maybe… Aro will be able to read me?”
His head tilted slightly as he looked at me, then he asked, “You actually want him to?”
I nodded before saying in a fervent whisper, “Hell, yes. I want him to see it all, and know for a fact that I only told him the truth. I want them to help me figure this out, Demetri, and I’m not stupid enough to think they’ll help a human me for no reason. Christ, I just told them that someone who lived with them for over 50 years, someone they considered a friend, just broke one of the biggest vampire laws by leaving me with a heartbeat. Would you want to help me if I told you that?”
After a second, he nodded and shrugged, which looked odd with the dapper Italian suit he was in. “When you put it like that, I see your point.”
Demetri gently let my hands go while flicking his eyes toward the stairs. He smiled, then asked me conversationally, “Do you have any concerns about your approved course load?”
I shook my head at the quick switch of topic but knew why, so I said seriously, “As I stated in my application, I tend to favor older literature. The older the better, as far as I’m concerned. I know I need to take a few of the more modern courses for the degree I’m going for, but modern literature just doesn’t interest me. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll be on top of my assignments, I guess I just find the nuances and intricacies of older literature to be fascinating.”
“Hey, Bells?” I turned to see Charlie standing at the bottom of the stairs watching me. “Can I talk to you in the living room for a minute?”
I excused myself, then followed Charlie into the living room. He whispered slowly, “Sounds like you really wanna do this. Mr. Nikolas is legit, and I was able to talk to the head of the school. It sounds like this school is seriously hard to get into. Did you know this advanced program you’re in only gives out 5 scholarships every year?”
I nodded, “That’s why I didn’t think I’d get in, Dad. When they give out a scholarship to an international applicant, they do it for the whole shebang. Tuition, boarding… everything is included… for the whole 4 years I would be there. And this school, Dad? It’s one of the best in the world for me. With a degree from this school, I'm practically writing my own ticket. I could literally work anywhere I wanted. I wouldn’t have to worry about finding a job after college like most kids do. I swear, if I had any inclination that I had a chance, I would have told you that I had applied to an international college, Dad. I honestly wasn’t trying to hide it.”
Charlie sighed and hugged me, then asked as he let me go, “Italy, huh? I guess this dream school of yours was the reason you took Italian for the last four years?”
I bit my lip and shrugged, “Kind of? I mean… you always told me not to let anything hold me back, and not being able to communicate at the school I’ve always wanted to go to would be a really big setback.”
He nodded slowly, “And you listened to me why?”
I chuckled in my normal tone, then said as I grinned at Charlie, “Because you’re a great father, and you always tried to teach me to work for my dreams. Well, it worked, Dad. I did it.”
He nodded and teared up, “Go on now. Go pack. I have a few more things I need to talk to Mr. Nikolas about.”
I was so happy that he was going along with all of this that I actually squealed in excitement, “Really? I can go?”
He laughed, “Really, Bells. You can go to the fancy Italian school. Now go pack.”
I ran up the stairs, calling, “I’ll be ready soon, Mr. Nikolas. It won’t take me long to pack.”
An hour later, the last of my suitcases and bags were being loaded into the back of the Escalade, and I was saying goodbye to my father. He would be safe now. I wouldn’t accidentally hurt him.
~~~~~
When Demetri escorted me into the castle, I don’t know what I expected, but Aro was extremely attractive. He was the only one in the lavish study when we were let into the room, so my whole focus was on him, and I had a few seriously naughty thoughts before I could reign them in.
He was tall, maybe 6 foot 2 or 3, and had crazy raven-black hair. He was wearing a white button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled, a pinstripe fitted vest, and a pair of black slacks that hugged his rear.
I bit my lip and shrugged, “Kind of? I mean… you always told me not to let anything hold me back, and not being able to communicate at the school I’ve always wanted to go to would be a really big setback.”
He nodded slowly, “And you listened to me why?”
I chuckled in my normal tone, then said as I grinned at Charlie, “Because you’re a great father, and you always tried to teach me to work for my dreams. Well, it worked, Dad. I did it.”
He nodded and teared up, “Go on now. Go pack. I have a few more things I need to talk to Mr. Nikolas about.”
I was so happy that he was going along with all of this that I actually squealed in excitement, “Really? I can go?”
He laughed, “Really, Bells. You can go to the fancy Italian school. Now go pack.”
I ran up the stairs, calling, “I’ll be ready soon, Mr. Nikolas. It won’t take me long to pack.”
An hour later, the last of my suitcases and bags were being loaded into the back of the Escalade, and I was saying goodbye to my father. He would be safe now. I wouldn’t accidentally hurt him.
~~~~~
When Demetri escorted me into the castle, I don’t know what I expected, but Aro was extremely attractive. He was the only one in the lavish study when we were let into the room, so my whole focus was on him, and I had a few seriously naughty thoughts before I could reign them in.
He was tall, maybe 6 foot 2 or 3, and had crazy raven-black hair. He was wearing a white button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled, a pinstripe fitted vest, and a pair of black slacks that hugged his rear.
I had to quickly discard thoughts of my hands grabbing that tight rear as Aro stood from his position over an old-looking scroll on the study table. “Ah, Isabella. Welcome to Volterra.”
His smile made me want to melt.
Crap. No more thoughts of the sexy king. Keep your mind on the reason you’re here.
I shook my head, then smiled, “Thank you, Sir. What you said to my father was the turning point in him letting me go.”
Aro chuckled, “Have a seat, please. I had Chef prepare a snack for you, in case you were ready for a bite to eat. We are still waiting for my brothers to arrive.”
Demetri stepped up to his king as I sat in the club chair. He held his hand out in offering, saying only, “Sire.”
Aro placed the tip of his middle finger on the palm of Demetri’s offered hand. After several seconds, Aro hummed, “Interesting,” then laughed a few seconds later, “Well played, Isabella Dear. It seems to me that your explanation to Demetri of your passion for ancient literature was the true tipping point for your father.”
Aro patted Demetri on the shoulder, then turned to me. I was happily savoring some fresh grapes and cherries. “Is your snack acceptable?”
I wiped my mouth, then answered, “Yes, Sir. Thank you, it’s delicious.”
He held his hand out to me, asking, “Isabella, may I?”
I wiped my fingers and replied, “Oh, of course. Um… I’m sorry… in advance.”
Before I could place my hand in his, Aro asked, “What would you need to apologize for?”
I shook my head and bit my lip, “You’ll see… maybe.”
I placed my hand in his and could see his features changing as he seemed to look through my eyes, deep into my soul. I just hoped it was working.
It took quite a bit longer than it did with Demetri, but Aro finally smirked and chuckled as his eyes darkened to a deep merlot, “Well now. I assure you, Beautiful Isabella, you have nothing to be sorry for. If you’d like to expand on those thoughts at a later time, I would be more than happy to indulge.”
My eyes widened as I gasped, then I spluttered, “You’re a cheeky flirt, Sir!”
Demetri laughed outright in defense of his king, “Says the human apparently having lustful thoughts of him.”
I groaned, then stated seriously, “You saw, though. You saw it all… so you know I’m telling the truth. Will you help?”
Marcus and Caius walked in then. Caius looked down at me with a grin before looking at Aro. “I would like to know the answer to that myself, Brother. Will we be helping Miss Swan?”
I nodded in greeting to both men, then Aro said in a serious tone, “After looking through the scrolls and reading Miss Swan, I believe her to be a rare incarnation of a fire wielder. As of yet, uncontrolled, but she could learn to be in complete control with the proper training. Brothers, I believe Miss Swan requires our help, and that a certain coven will have several things to answer for soon.”
Caius actually smirked while rubbing his hands together, “Excellent.”
At my questioning look, Demetri explained, “Some in the castle, Caius probably most of all, feel that the Cullen coven has gotten away with having daily contact with humans for too long. Aro has been thought to be… lenient… because of their previous friendship.”
I nodded in understanding, and Aro confirmed, “The idiot boy left her in the woods, after telling her she was a distraction to pass the time. Every one of them had shone her their vampiric nature in one way or another, then deserted her with a vengeful vampire out for her blood. Demetri’s thoughts showed their paths crossing this Victoria’s several times in the weeks before they left Washington, which clearly tells me-”
I nearly growled as my anger level shot through the roof, “The fucking prick knew. He knew she was around, and he left me there like a goddamn offering.”
There was a sudden flurry in the room as my vision tinted red, then I heard Aro as he took a single step closer to me, “Isabella. Look at me, please. Focus on me. I need you to breathe for me, alright? I need you to understand that I’m going to try to help you.”
I didn’t know why he was acting so cautious until I felt my hands clenched into fists. I looked down, only to see the chair I was sitting in was up in flames; I was standing in front of it with more flames around me. I should have been on fire, myself, but I couldn’t even feel the heat.
I should have been scared shitless, but a sick curiosity had me reaching out to tentatively touch a flame. I suddenly saw Aro take another step toward me, so I hurried to say, “Wait! Please, Sir. I’m okay now. I… I need to see something.”
Aro nodded cautiously, so I again reached out to touch the flame. It seemed to reach up in acknowledgment when my palm floated over it. I tilted my head slightly, then tried to stroke my hand down the outer part of the flame. I ended up petting the flame before cupping the tip of it in my hand. Miraculously, it danced in my hand as I turned and moved my hand in different ways.
After another second, Aro said softly, “Beautiful Isabella, we need to put the fire out, before more of the study is damaged.”
I finally took a good look around and realized all 4 men were standing near the door. The entire chair and 3 feet all the way around it were blazing, with me in the center. I gasped, “Oh, shit! I’m sorry! I don’t know how to put it out!”
Aro nodded, then quickly said, “Focus on me and try to slow your breathing. I will help you. Come to me, Isabella.”
He held his hands out in invitation; without a thought, I was to him. His hands cupped my face, and I let out a shaky breath at the contact. I barely managed to whisper in Italian as my eyes connected with his, “I’m so tired now, Sir.”
He hummed as I heard a commotion around us, his reply also in Italian, “We will get you settled into your rooms in just a few minutes. I can see how much of your energy this has taken. Fear not, my little fire goddess, we will make them answer for their deeds.”
Blackness descended.
~~~~~
Over the next 4 months, I learned so much about the vampire race, my quickly growing power, and even life itself.
Though Aro had taken a few female lovers during his many years on Earth, Carlisle had been mistaken when he told me that all 3 of the brothers were mated.
That fact made me feel a bit better about my thoughts… and of course, Aro liked to flirt with me whenever he read those incredibly naughty thoughts. I still hadn’t accepted any of the numerous invitations to his bed, but he had kissed me several delicious times.
Currently, the previously named king was lounging on my bed, looking drop-dead sexy as I packed my bags. I was set to go back to the states to see Charlie, as a kind of test of my abilities. I needed to know I could be away from my safe place (Volterra) and stay in control.
That was the biggest reason I hadn’t given in to Aro. I was afraid I’d lose control and hurt him while intimate. He felt otherwise but was allowing me to do this, if only to prove it to myself.
Aro lifted the hem of my shirt to kiss his way around the low-rise waist of my jeans, “Dea del fuoco, will you ever let me worship you?”
I chuckled and dropped the underwear I was packing into my bag, then pushed him to lay back on the bed. After climbing up to straddle him, I leaned in and nipped his chin, “I’m not a fire goddess. I’m barely at an apprentice level, Aro. Plus, you know why I need to do this. I can’t risk literally burning you during the figurative heat of passion.”
He sighed as his hands teased their way underneath the back of my shirt, “Not once during the last 4 months have you hurt me, Isabella, yet I have been part of all your training sessions.”
I kissed his lips softly, pleading for him to understand. When he relaxed into the kiss, I knew he wasn’t truly upset, just grumpy that I’d be gone for a week. The kiss ended with him asking, “And when this test proves you can keep control? Will you finally come home and let me love you?”
I chuckled, pecked his lips again, then promised, “I will come home to you, make love to you until I’m completely exhausted, sleep naked in your arms, then wake up and do it all over again.”
He growled deeply against my neck as he flipped us, then rocked against me while nipping my nipples through my shirt, “I am holding you to that statement, Isabella. Then, once we prove that you can be intimate with me without hurting me, I’m holding you to your other promise that you’ll let me change you.”
My fingers laced into his wild raven hair as I moaned, “Christ, you love to tease. Yes, my sexy king. If we can prove that I won’t hurt you during a passionate romp, I’ll happily consent to you turning me.”
He insisted on sealing the deal with several steamy kisses, which I eagerly accepted.
~~~~~
Demetri, Jane, and a few of the fighter class guards had things to attend to in the states, so we all flew out together. A gorgeous silver Dodge Challenger was waiting for me in the hangar of the private airstrip we landed at in Port Angeles.
His smile made me want to melt.
Crap. No more thoughts of the sexy king. Keep your mind on the reason you’re here.
I shook my head, then smiled, “Thank you, Sir. What you said to my father was the turning point in him letting me go.”
Aro chuckled, “Have a seat, please. I had Chef prepare a snack for you, in case you were ready for a bite to eat. We are still waiting for my brothers to arrive.”
Demetri stepped up to his king as I sat in the club chair. He held his hand out in offering, saying only, “Sire.”
Aro placed the tip of his middle finger on the palm of Demetri’s offered hand. After several seconds, Aro hummed, “Interesting,” then laughed a few seconds later, “Well played, Isabella Dear. It seems to me that your explanation to Demetri of your passion for ancient literature was the true tipping point for your father.”
Aro patted Demetri on the shoulder, then turned to me. I was happily savoring some fresh grapes and cherries. “Is your snack acceptable?”
I wiped my mouth, then answered, “Yes, Sir. Thank you, it’s delicious.”
He held his hand out to me, asking, “Isabella, may I?”
I wiped my fingers and replied, “Oh, of course. Um… I’m sorry… in advance.”
Before I could place my hand in his, Aro asked, “What would you need to apologize for?”
I shook my head and bit my lip, “You’ll see… maybe.”
I placed my hand in his and could see his features changing as he seemed to look through my eyes, deep into my soul. I just hoped it was working.
It took quite a bit longer than it did with Demetri, but Aro finally smirked and chuckled as his eyes darkened to a deep merlot, “Well now. I assure you, Beautiful Isabella, you have nothing to be sorry for. If you’d like to expand on those thoughts at a later time, I would be more than happy to indulge.”
My eyes widened as I gasped, then I spluttered, “You’re a cheeky flirt, Sir!”
Demetri laughed outright in defense of his king, “Says the human apparently having lustful thoughts of him.”
I groaned, then stated seriously, “You saw, though. You saw it all… so you know I’m telling the truth. Will you help?”
Marcus and Caius walked in then. Caius looked down at me with a grin before looking at Aro. “I would like to know the answer to that myself, Brother. Will we be helping Miss Swan?”
I nodded in greeting to both men, then Aro said in a serious tone, “After looking through the scrolls and reading Miss Swan, I believe her to be a rare incarnation of a fire wielder. As of yet, uncontrolled, but she could learn to be in complete control with the proper training. Brothers, I believe Miss Swan requires our help, and that a certain coven will have several things to answer for soon.”
Caius actually smirked while rubbing his hands together, “Excellent.”
At my questioning look, Demetri explained, “Some in the castle, Caius probably most of all, feel that the Cullen coven has gotten away with having daily contact with humans for too long. Aro has been thought to be… lenient… because of their previous friendship.”
I nodded in understanding, and Aro confirmed, “The idiot boy left her in the woods, after telling her she was a distraction to pass the time. Every one of them had shone her their vampiric nature in one way or another, then deserted her with a vengeful vampire out for her blood. Demetri’s thoughts showed their paths crossing this Victoria’s several times in the weeks before they left Washington, which clearly tells me-”
I nearly growled as my anger level shot through the roof, “The fucking prick knew. He knew she was around, and he left me there like a goddamn offering.”
There was a sudden flurry in the room as my vision tinted red, then I heard Aro as he took a single step closer to me, “Isabella. Look at me, please. Focus on me. I need you to breathe for me, alright? I need you to understand that I’m going to try to help you.”
I didn’t know why he was acting so cautious until I felt my hands clenched into fists. I looked down, only to see the chair I was sitting in was up in flames; I was standing in front of it with more flames around me. I should have been on fire, myself, but I couldn’t even feel the heat.
I should have been scared shitless, but a sick curiosity had me reaching out to tentatively touch a flame. I suddenly saw Aro take another step toward me, so I hurried to say, “Wait! Please, Sir. I’m okay now. I… I need to see something.”
Aro nodded cautiously, so I again reached out to touch the flame. It seemed to reach up in acknowledgment when my palm floated over it. I tilted my head slightly, then tried to stroke my hand down the outer part of the flame. I ended up petting the flame before cupping the tip of it in my hand. Miraculously, it danced in my hand as I turned and moved my hand in different ways.
After another second, Aro said softly, “Beautiful Isabella, we need to put the fire out, before more of the study is damaged.”
I finally took a good look around and realized all 4 men were standing near the door. The entire chair and 3 feet all the way around it were blazing, with me in the center. I gasped, “Oh, shit! I’m sorry! I don’t know how to put it out!”
Aro nodded, then quickly said, “Focus on me and try to slow your breathing. I will help you. Come to me, Isabella.”
He held his hands out in invitation; without a thought, I was to him. His hands cupped my face, and I let out a shaky breath at the contact. I barely managed to whisper in Italian as my eyes connected with his, “I’m so tired now, Sir.”
He hummed as I heard a commotion around us, his reply also in Italian, “We will get you settled into your rooms in just a few minutes. I can see how much of your energy this has taken. Fear not, my little fire goddess, we will make them answer for their deeds.”
Blackness descended.
~~~~~
Over the next 4 months, I learned so much about the vampire race, my quickly growing power, and even life itself.
Though Aro had taken a few female lovers during his many years on Earth, Carlisle had been mistaken when he told me that all 3 of the brothers were mated.
That fact made me feel a bit better about my thoughts… and of course, Aro liked to flirt with me whenever he read those incredibly naughty thoughts. I still hadn’t accepted any of the numerous invitations to his bed, but he had kissed me several delicious times.
Currently, the previously named king was lounging on my bed, looking drop-dead sexy as I packed my bags. I was set to go back to the states to see Charlie, as a kind of test of my abilities. I needed to know I could be away from my safe place (Volterra) and stay in control.
That was the biggest reason I hadn’t given in to Aro. I was afraid I’d lose control and hurt him while intimate. He felt otherwise but was allowing me to do this, if only to prove it to myself.
Aro lifted the hem of my shirt to kiss his way around the low-rise waist of my jeans, “Dea del fuoco, will you ever let me worship you?”
I chuckled and dropped the underwear I was packing into my bag, then pushed him to lay back on the bed. After climbing up to straddle him, I leaned in and nipped his chin, “I’m not a fire goddess. I’m barely at an apprentice level, Aro. Plus, you know why I need to do this. I can’t risk literally burning you during the figurative heat of passion.”
He sighed as his hands teased their way underneath the back of my shirt, “Not once during the last 4 months have you hurt me, Isabella, yet I have been part of all your training sessions.”
I kissed his lips softly, pleading for him to understand. When he relaxed into the kiss, I knew he wasn’t truly upset, just grumpy that I’d be gone for a week. The kiss ended with him asking, “And when this test proves you can keep control? Will you finally come home and let me love you?”
I chuckled, pecked his lips again, then promised, “I will come home to you, make love to you until I’m completely exhausted, sleep naked in your arms, then wake up and do it all over again.”
He growled deeply against my neck as he flipped us, then rocked against me while nipping my nipples through my shirt, “I am holding you to that statement, Isabella. Then, once we prove that you can be intimate with me without hurting me, I’m holding you to your other promise that you’ll let me change you.”
My fingers laced into his wild raven hair as I moaned, “Christ, you love to tease. Yes, my sexy king. If we can prove that I won’t hurt you during a passionate romp, I’ll happily consent to you turning me.”
He insisted on sealing the deal with several steamy kisses, which I eagerly accepted.
~~~~~
Demetri, Jane, and a few of the fighter class guards had things to attend to in the states, so we all flew out together. A gorgeous silver Dodge Challenger was waiting for me in the hangar of the private airstrip we landed at in Port Angeles.
I waved to Jane as Demetri loaded my 2 bags into the back seat. Demetri hugged me, then said seriously, “Call if you need to. I’ll be able to reach you faster than Jane will. Don’t hesitate, Bella.”
I nodded, then smirked, “You still aren’t going to tell me the reason you 2 are in the states, are you?”
Demetri chuckled as he started walking backward, “Not a chance, Swan. I’ll see you here in a week.”
I chuckled as I made my way to the open car door, “I’ll just find out on the way home. I don’t see why the cloak and dagger routine is necessary.”
He winked before turning, but I chuckled while shaking my head, “You’re an ass, Dem!”
I stopped at the first Dunkin Donuts I found for some much-needed caffeine, then drove the familiar roads to Charlie’s. If I timed it right, I’d make it there just in time to fix him breakfast, since the boys at the station said he was off today.
I should have known I wouldn’t make it to the door before Charlie knew someone was at his house. I had the backrest of the driver's seat forward so I could reach my bags when I heard him call out to me, “Is there something I can help you with Ma’am?”
I chuckled softly, then pulled my bags out before hip bumping the door closed. I lifted my sunglasses as I laughed, “Sure is, Dad. You can help me with these bags.”
I nodded, then smirked, “You still aren’t going to tell me the reason you 2 are in the states, are you?”
Demetri chuckled as he started walking backward, “Not a chance, Swan. I’ll see you here in a week.”
I chuckled as I made my way to the open car door, “I’ll just find out on the way home. I don’t see why the cloak and dagger routine is necessary.”
He winked before turning, but I chuckled while shaking my head, “You’re an ass, Dem!”
I stopped at the first Dunkin Donuts I found for some much-needed caffeine, then drove the familiar roads to Charlie’s. If I timed it right, I’d make it there just in time to fix him breakfast, since the boys at the station said he was off today.
I should have known I wouldn’t make it to the door before Charlie knew someone was at his house. I had the backrest of the driver's seat forward so I could reach my bags when I heard him call out to me, “Is there something I can help you with Ma’am?”
I chuckled softly, then pulled my bags out before hip bumping the door closed. I lifted my sunglasses as I laughed, “Sure is, Dad. You can help me with these bags.”
Charlie’s mouth dropped before he rushed down the steps in his house shoes, “Holy crap! Bells? What are you doing here now? You aren’t supposed to be here until next week!”
He hugged me tightly then grinned, “School’s done you some good, I see. You look really great, Kiddo. And your hair!”
He took both my bags so I chuckled, “Thanks, Dad. I did a switcheroo with the guys at the station on purpose… to surprise you. They were in on it with me. I’m actually here right on time. And yeah, I guess Italy has worn off on me a bit. I love my classes so much. Did you get that paper I emailed you with the final grades from the Modern Literature refresher?”
He grinned proudly as we stepped into the house, “Got it posted at the station. I’m so proud of you, Bells.”
That morning over breakfast, Charlie offered to throw me a party so that I could see everyone, but I shook my head with a smile, “Dad, I’m here to see you, not everyone else. The only one I really want to see from Forks High is Angela, and I already have a coffee date set up with her.”
~~~~~
My week with Charlie went really well. There were a few times when I could feel my triggers being tugged at, but I quickly made use of all I had learned the past few months and was able to calm down relatively easily.
That is, until the last day of vacation.
Charlie had just been called into work because both Henry and Able were sick. He hugged me after donning his gun belt, “It’s for the best, Bells. You know I’m no good at saying goodbye.”
I hugged him back while saying, “It was really good seeing you, Dad. I’m glad I had the time to come out. I’ll call in a few weeks, okay?”
He nodded as he let me go, “Make sure you lock up when you leave, and you don’t have to wait a few weeks. If you need me, call, Bells.”
I nodded, my eyes watering as I promised, “I know, Dad. Love you.”
Charlie let out a breath and nodded, then kissed my forehead and whispered, “You, too, Kiddo.” I watched him pull out of the driveway in his cruiser only 2 minutes later.
Knowing that was the last time I’d see my father had my emotions all over the place, so I sat right there on the floor of the living room and tried to calm my breathing. It took me 20 minutes to get up off the floor so I could make sure all my things were packed, but when I did, I was fully in control.
Just as I made sure the last of my belongings were packed, my phone rang. I answered it without looking, “Hello?”
I could hear rushing in the background as Demetri said seriously, “I’m less than 7 minutes away, but I won’t reach you before she does.”
I shook my head, not understanding, “Dem? I thought I was meeting you at the hangar.”
He answered right away, “We were in the states to find and bring back the Cullens to be sentenced, Bella. Alice wasn’t with the rest, though, so I started tracking her while Jane handled the coven. Alice is in Forks, Bella.”
I nearly growled in frustration, “Fuck! I seriously do not need this shit right now, Dem. It just took me 20 minutes to calm down after saying goodbye to my father.”
Demetri tried to remind me, “Go out to the woods behind the house if you need to. I’ll be there soon.”
Just then my doorbell rang. “Too late, D. That’s the door.” I hung up the phone and took a slow deep breath before answering the door.
I only got to see a flash of Alice’s face before she was nearly crushing me in a hug. Trying to push her off me would do no good, so I grunted, “Alice! Get. Off. Me.”
She let me out of the hug but held me at arm’s length exclaiming, “Oh, Bella. I was so worried! I saw the house. When I tried to look for your future, I got nothing. Nothing, Bella! I was so afraid you were dead.”
I shrugged out of her hold, then said a bit snottily, “Well, a lot’s changed since you left, Alice, but I clearly still have a pulse.”
She scuffed, then said, “It was a serious concern, Bella.”
I let out a disbelieving laugh, “Really? After over 4 months of nothing. You come back to get something you want from your house here, finally see it burnt down, and suddenly decide now is a good time to check my future? Seriously, Alice? Some fucking best friend. Your so-called concern didn’t even last until you fucking left. You can sell your bullshit elsewhere because I’m not buying.”
Demetri walked in without even knocking, snapped his fingers toward Alice for the guard to handle, and came straight to me. His hands carefully opened my clenched fists before wrapping around my hands in comfort, “Easy, Isabella. With me… One.”
His chest rose and fell, but mine followed after. This was one of the easiest ways for me to visualize and safely release the energy that built inside me.
I could hear Alice saying something, but my main focus was on Demetri. He turned his head and growled for her to shut the fuck up, but not being able to focus on Demetri’s face allowed my anger at her to rise again.
When his eyes met mine this time, something in them caused him to say, “Fuck,” as he rushed me outside. As soon as we reached the cool, damp forest, Demetri’s hands cupped my face, “Now, Isabella. Focus on me. One.”
Our chests rose and fell at the same time with our deep breaths. He continued, “Two.”
Our deep breaths continued slowly, with me visualizing releasing the energy on each exhale until I could shakily say the next number. “Thirty.”
Demetri let out a heavy breath, “There we are. That wasn’t too bad. Take another minute, then we’ll get set to leave. Do you need to release more energy, or are you good for now?”
My head dropped to his chest when he let go of my face, my voice a whisper, “I’m okay. It’s been a long week without everyone. Then saying goodbye to my Dad, and now this. I want to go home. I miss Aro. I need sleep and to feel his arms around me.”
Demetri nodded as he whispered back, “Let’s get you home, then. Are you going to be okay on the plane?”
I nodded, “Aro wants to read them, so I’ll probably crash in the private cabin, as long as you and Jane put the coven in the main space. Just make sure someone has idiot #1 in hand before I board the plane, Dem. I’m his singer, and I won’t hesitate if threatened.”
He nodded seriously, “Already being dealt with. Aro warned us before we left the castle.”
When I boarded the plane, Edward was not only in a connected set of menacing neck/wrist/ankle shackles with spikes inside, but he had 3 guards surrounding him, ready to act at a moment’s notice. I ignored his snarling, Carlisle’s scowl and demand to know why I was being called to Italy, and Esme’s shocked gasp of “Bella?”
I hugged Jane, not sparing the Cullens another glance as I said, “I’ll be in the cabin if you want to talk.” She nodded, and I could see her moving to guard the cabin door as I closed it.
The one time I did leave the cabin to pull some food and a drink left for me by Chef from the refrigerator, Rosalie decided to get snippy with me. “The human gets the private cabin? What’s so special about you that you can’t sit with everyone else in this situation?”
In complete control -because I knew she would be the one to open her mouth- I turned to her quickly, glaring at her as I made a ball of fire appear in my hand out of nowhere. I moved and twisted my hand, making the fire do my bidding as I sneered less than a foot from her face, “I could kill you right here, right now, with just a flick of my wrist. You’re nothing but a self-centered bitch who thinks she’s owed the world. Newsflash, Rosalie, you are worth less than a cockroach in the grand scheme of things. I’m in the cabin for your safety, not mine, so it would be wise for you to shut the fuck up. Get pissy with me again and I’ll be happy to tell Aro I burned your lips shut as my payment for your attitude. There’s not a guard on this plane who will lift a single finger to stop me.”
He hugged me tightly then grinned, “School’s done you some good, I see. You look really great, Kiddo. And your hair!”
He took both my bags so I chuckled, “Thanks, Dad. I did a switcheroo with the guys at the station on purpose… to surprise you. They were in on it with me. I’m actually here right on time. And yeah, I guess Italy has worn off on me a bit. I love my classes so much. Did you get that paper I emailed you with the final grades from the Modern Literature refresher?”
He grinned proudly as we stepped into the house, “Got it posted at the station. I’m so proud of you, Bells.”
That morning over breakfast, Charlie offered to throw me a party so that I could see everyone, but I shook my head with a smile, “Dad, I’m here to see you, not everyone else. The only one I really want to see from Forks High is Angela, and I already have a coffee date set up with her.”
~~~~~
My week with Charlie went really well. There were a few times when I could feel my triggers being tugged at, but I quickly made use of all I had learned the past few months and was able to calm down relatively easily.
That is, until the last day of vacation.
Charlie had just been called into work because both Henry and Able were sick. He hugged me after donning his gun belt, “It’s for the best, Bells. You know I’m no good at saying goodbye.”
I hugged him back while saying, “It was really good seeing you, Dad. I’m glad I had the time to come out. I’ll call in a few weeks, okay?”
He nodded as he let me go, “Make sure you lock up when you leave, and you don’t have to wait a few weeks. If you need me, call, Bells.”
I nodded, my eyes watering as I promised, “I know, Dad. Love you.”
Charlie let out a breath and nodded, then kissed my forehead and whispered, “You, too, Kiddo.” I watched him pull out of the driveway in his cruiser only 2 minutes later.
Knowing that was the last time I’d see my father had my emotions all over the place, so I sat right there on the floor of the living room and tried to calm my breathing. It took me 20 minutes to get up off the floor so I could make sure all my things were packed, but when I did, I was fully in control.
Just as I made sure the last of my belongings were packed, my phone rang. I answered it without looking, “Hello?”
I could hear rushing in the background as Demetri said seriously, “I’m less than 7 minutes away, but I won’t reach you before she does.”
I shook my head, not understanding, “Dem? I thought I was meeting you at the hangar.”
He answered right away, “We were in the states to find and bring back the Cullens to be sentenced, Bella. Alice wasn’t with the rest, though, so I started tracking her while Jane handled the coven. Alice is in Forks, Bella.”
I nearly growled in frustration, “Fuck! I seriously do not need this shit right now, Dem. It just took me 20 minutes to calm down after saying goodbye to my father.”
Demetri tried to remind me, “Go out to the woods behind the house if you need to. I’ll be there soon.”
Just then my doorbell rang. “Too late, D. That’s the door.” I hung up the phone and took a slow deep breath before answering the door.
I only got to see a flash of Alice’s face before she was nearly crushing me in a hug. Trying to push her off me would do no good, so I grunted, “Alice! Get. Off. Me.”
She let me out of the hug but held me at arm’s length exclaiming, “Oh, Bella. I was so worried! I saw the house. When I tried to look for your future, I got nothing. Nothing, Bella! I was so afraid you were dead.”
I shrugged out of her hold, then said a bit snottily, “Well, a lot’s changed since you left, Alice, but I clearly still have a pulse.”
She scuffed, then said, “It was a serious concern, Bella.”
I let out a disbelieving laugh, “Really? After over 4 months of nothing. You come back to get something you want from your house here, finally see it burnt down, and suddenly decide now is a good time to check my future? Seriously, Alice? Some fucking best friend. Your so-called concern didn’t even last until you fucking left. You can sell your bullshit elsewhere because I’m not buying.”
Demetri walked in without even knocking, snapped his fingers toward Alice for the guard to handle, and came straight to me. His hands carefully opened my clenched fists before wrapping around my hands in comfort, “Easy, Isabella. With me… One.”
His chest rose and fell, but mine followed after. This was one of the easiest ways for me to visualize and safely release the energy that built inside me.
I could hear Alice saying something, but my main focus was on Demetri. He turned his head and growled for her to shut the fuck up, but not being able to focus on Demetri’s face allowed my anger at her to rise again.
When his eyes met mine this time, something in them caused him to say, “Fuck,” as he rushed me outside. As soon as we reached the cool, damp forest, Demetri’s hands cupped my face, “Now, Isabella. Focus on me. One.”
Our chests rose and fell at the same time with our deep breaths. He continued, “Two.”
Our deep breaths continued slowly, with me visualizing releasing the energy on each exhale until I could shakily say the next number. “Thirty.”
Demetri let out a heavy breath, “There we are. That wasn’t too bad. Take another minute, then we’ll get set to leave. Do you need to release more energy, or are you good for now?”
My head dropped to his chest when he let go of my face, my voice a whisper, “I’m okay. It’s been a long week without everyone. Then saying goodbye to my Dad, and now this. I want to go home. I miss Aro. I need sleep and to feel his arms around me.”
Demetri nodded as he whispered back, “Let’s get you home, then. Are you going to be okay on the plane?”
I nodded, “Aro wants to read them, so I’ll probably crash in the private cabin, as long as you and Jane put the coven in the main space. Just make sure someone has idiot #1 in hand before I board the plane, Dem. I’m his singer, and I won’t hesitate if threatened.”
He nodded seriously, “Already being dealt with. Aro warned us before we left the castle.”
When I boarded the plane, Edward was not only in a connected set of menacing neck/wrist/ankle shackles with spikes inside, but he had 3 guards surrounding him, ready to act at a moment’s notice. I ignored his snarling, Carlisle’s scowl and demand to know why I was being called to Italy, and Esme’s shocked gasp of “Bella?”
I hugged Jane, not sparing the Cullens another glance as I said, “I’ll be in the cabin if you want to talk.” She nodded, and I could see her moving to guard the cabin door as I closed it.
The one time I did leave the cabin to pull some food and a drink left for me by Chef from the refrigerator, Rosalie decided to get snippy with me. “The human gets the private cabin? What’s so special about you that you can’t sit with everyone else in this situation?”
In complete control -because I knew she would be the one to open her mouth- I turned to her quickly, glaring at her as I made a ball of fire appear in my hand out of nowhere. I moved and twisted my hand, making the fire do my bidding as I sneered less than a foot from her face, “I could kill you right here, right now, with just a flick of my wrist. You’re nothing but a self-centered bitch who thinks she’s owed the world. Newsflash, Rosalie, you are worth less than a cockroach in the grand scheme of things. I’m in the cabin for your safety, not mine, so it would be wise for you to shut the fuck up. Get pissy with me again and I’ll be happy to tell Aro I burned your lips shut as my payment for your attitude. There’s not a guard on this plane who will lift a single finger to stop me.”
She growled at me, but I morphed the fireball in my hand to grow double the original size, letting out a menacing laugh as Carlisle and Emmett both tried to hush her, “Fucking do it. I dare you. Let me play this out for you, Princess. You’ll come at me. You will die a fiery death. I’ll then be forced to kill your mate because he’ll come at me. Makes no difference, truly, as I’ve already killed one mateless vampire out for revenge.”
I gasped and dramatically placed my free hand over my mouth while looking wide-eyed at Demetri, “Oh, damn… did I say too much?”
He laughed outright, “Not nearly enough, in my opinion. It was them who interacted with Victoria for several weeks before leaving you to fend for yourself. I cataloged each of their scents at that meeting spot with hers. You already know what the brothers believe. The bottom-feeders didn’t care enough to turn you and take responsibility, and they were too spineless to kill you themselves, so they left you for Victoria. Problem solved, right?”
The entire room suddenly went completely silent. I snuffed out the flame by clenching my fist closed, then scuffed, “By the sudden silence, I guess I have my answer. So sorry to disappoint.”
After picking up my food and bottle of water, I made my way back toward the cabin, offering seriously, “Your days of flouting the laws are over.”
~~~~~
I stood with Demetri and Jane while Aro read each member of the coven. Once done, he retreated to the thrones to confer with Marcus and Caius. It was less than a minute later that Aro motioned me to him.
When I reached him, he asked me softly, “Would you like to be the one to pass their sentence, Isabella?”
I raised an eyebrow, to which Aro nodded. Turning, I let out a breath. The entire coven was huddled together, fear clear in their eyes. I shook my head, saying, “I, at least, have the backbone to make sure the job is done. I truly hope this hurts.”
With that, I watched as each one of the Cullens burst into flame. I turned after a few seconds, then held my hand out to Aro. He pulled me gently into his arms, so I whispered against his chest, “It’s done.”
~~~~~
Two hours later, Aro and I were curled up together on the couch near the fireplace in his suite of rooms. He asked me how my visit with Charlie went, so I told him about the different things we did together, then said, “Mostly, I missed you.”
Aro turned us so that I was laying down with him between my thighs. I kissed him deeply, then whispered while cupping his face in my hands, “I haven’t told you how the test went because I want you to see it for yourself.”
Less than a minute later, Aro gasped and venom filled his eyes. They connected with mine, so I smiled, “I love you, and I realized that just you being near and supporting me makes me stronger. Knowing that you were proud of me -and proud to be seen with me- even when I failed epically, was what got me through this week.”
His voice was hoarse with emotion as he asked, “Does this mean-”
I didn’t let him finish. I fisted my hands up into the back of his hair and pulled his lips to mine, then said seriously, “Let me be clear. This, right here and now, is me telling you I’m ready to make love t-”
This time, it was him who didn’t let me finish. His mouth captured mine with a deep groan, and I was instantly blown away by the depth of burning emotion he was putting into our kiss.
I wrapped my legs around his hips as my hands tightened in his hair, needing him closer. Aro hummed and broke the kiss, only to lift me in his arms and take us to his bedroom.
Clothing soon littered the floor, and I found myself naked and sitting on his masculine thighs. As his fingers ghosted over the crook of my neck, Aro whispered, "I love the delicate curve... right here."
His eyes were intent and smoldering as he watched his movements. His hands traced down each side of my neck, then down the side swells of my bare breasts as he continued, "And right here..."
They followed my sides down to the indentation of my waist, "Here..."
Then, as his fingers ghosted over my naked hips, he moaned, "And most certainly... right here."
My breath sped up slightly as I whispered, "I love the feel of your hands on my skin. Christ, it feels amazing."
Aro massaged my hips and thighs for a minute as his eyes took in my form, then said softly, "You truly are exquisite, Isabella."
I whimpered and shifted, the deep desire in his eyes arousing me more. In return, he moaned, pressing up against me as he pushed down slightly on my hips. I gasped and clutched at his chest, causing him to groan, "I need you more than blood, my little fire goddess."
I leaned down to kiss over his heart, then licked my way down his abs, tracing the definition lines of his muscles. God, he tasted incredible. He gasped as I nipped his hip, then whimpered when I licked his happy trail.
He grabbed my hands when they went to move lower, so I looked up at his endless obsidian eyes. "I didn’t mean for you to-"
I shushed him, "I want to taste you... all of you."
Aro’s eyes fluttered as he nodded and squeezed my hands gently, then I nipped his hip before sitting back. His cock was standing long, proud, and thick, with a bead of fluid resting at the slit. I licked my lips at the sight, then leaned in to flick my tongue against the tip.
I swirled my tongue around his tip, then wrapped my lips around him and sucked like a lollipop. His fingers went into my hair, keeping it back out of the way, causing me to moan my appreciation around his length as I took him deeper.
He gasped, tightening his hands in my hair slightly as he hit my throat, to which I moaned deeply. He choked out, "Fuck... so hot... relax your throat a bit."
I did, soon finding I could take him deeper. I kept the process up -relaxing and taking him deeper- until my nose was nestled against Aro's skin and he was babbling incoherently in a mix of Italian and English.
I backed up a bit before taking him fully again, then swallowed around him, moaning. He growled, "Fuck, Isabella... so close..."
I hummed and nodded as I quickened my pace. When I swallowed around him a few more times, he growled and cried out my name as he spilled into my mouth. I greedily drank it all down, moaning at his deliciously sweet taste.
When I sat back on my heels, I wiped my thumb against the drop on my bottom lip, then looked at him as I sucked it off my thumb. I instantly found myself on my back, Aro hovering over me while whispering, "That was the most intense thing I've ever felt, Isabella.”
I whimpered as he slid slowly down my body, biting gently on my nipples; my gasp was loud in the otherwise quiet space. When he bit down softly on the underside of my breast, my hands shot into his hair as I arched into him and cried out, "Fuck! Aro, that’s incredible."
He chuckled as he licked the indentations his teeth made, causing me to whimper, "More... so good..."
He hummed as he bit the same spot on the other breast, then I cried out his name as I trembled in an unexpected orgasm. He licked the marks, then bit both of my nipples gently, making me gasp and clutch his hair tightly in my hands.
I was a whimpering mess by the time Aro reached my core, having made me cum twice more before reaching it, then he ran his fingers through my wetness, "You're drenched, Isabella... completely soaked. I love seeing your sweet little pussy so ready for me."
He groaned in pleasure while sucking his fingers clean, then whispered as he descended toward my folds, "I have lived for the scent of tangy berries and cream for the last 4 months Isabella, yet still, your taste is infinitely better than I imagined.”
He spread my legs wide, wrapped his one arm around my thigh and laid it gently between my hips, then slid two fingers into me while lapping at my swollen clit. I cried out as the coil tightened considerably in my stomach, my fingers tightening in his raven hair. Aro hummed, "That's it... let yourself go for me. Give yourself to me completely, Isabella."
As the sensations started taking over, Aro pressed down just above my mound, massaged his fingers rapidly against my sweet spot, and bit down on my clit while flicking his tongue against the trapped flesh.
After one hell of a multiple orgasm, Aro slowly brought me down, making sure he sucked every bit of my juices from me that he could. I was still shaking and gasping when he pulled me into his arms to tenderly wipe my hair from my face.
Oddly enough, though I could feel my emotions rising as Aro filled me with pleasure, I could also feel the resulting energy wanting to be put toward making Aro feel just as much pleasure. His earlier moans, growls, and pleas for more had been the balm my soul needed. That’s why I felt no hesitation when I lifted enough to line his tip up with my entrance.
Aro pulled me into a passionate kiss as I slid down, causing me to moan loudly while scraping my nails up his back. He groaned and held me close, begging, “More, please. Don’t stifle your desire, my little fire goddess; give it all to me.”
The more we moved together and loved each other, the more burning emotion seeped out of me in the form of extreme pleasure for us both. My arms clutched him close, my teeth nipped and bit, my nails scraped up his back, and quite a few gasps and moans left my lips. Each action was rewarded by Aro kissing me passionately, groaning while thrusting deeper, begging me for more, or humming while touching me in just the right way.
We lay entwined together as the early morning sun shone through the windows. Our breathing was still a bit heavy from our last orgasms as Aro moved my sticky hair from my neck to place kisses along the length. I yawned, then hummed as I kissed the slightly sparkling skin over his heart, “Too tired for a shower. It’ll have to wait until I wake.”
He hummed into the top of my head in response, “Sleep, Isabella. I hope you know that I can never give you up, now that I have you, my little fire goddess.”
I nodded, my eyes becoming heavy as my breathing slowed, “I know… sorry it… took me so long.”
The last words I heard before I fell asleep were of Aro telling me he would have waited another 50 years for me to be ready.
~Fin~
I gasped and dramatically placed my free hand over my mouth while looking wide-eyed at Demetri, “Oh, damn… did I say too much?”
He laughed outright, “Not nearly enough, in my opinion. It was them who interacted with Victoria for several weeks before leaving you to fend for yourself. I cataloged each of their scents at that meeting spot with hers. You already know what the brothers believe. The bottom-feeders didn’t care enough to turn you and take responsibility, and they were too spineless to kill you themselves, so they left you for Victoria. Problem solved, right?”
The entire room suddenly went completely silent. I snuffed out the flame by clenching my fist closed, then scuffed, “By the sudden silence, I guess I have my answer. So sorry to disappoint.”
After picking up my food and bottle of water, I made my way back toward the cabin, offering seriously, “Your days of flouting the laws are over.”
~~~~~
I stood with Demetri and Jane while Aro read each member of the coven. Once done, he retreated to the thrones to confer with Marcus and Caius. It was less than a minute later that Aro motioned me to him.
When I reached him, he asked me softly, “Would you like to be the one to pass their sentence, Isabella?”
I raised an eyebrow, to which Aro nodded. Turning, I let out a breath. The entire coven was huddled together, fear clear in their eyes. I shook my head, saying, “I, at least, have the backbone to make sure the job is done. I truly hope this hurts.”
With that, I watched as each one of the Cullens burst into flame. I turned after a few seconds, then held my hand out to Aro. He pulled me gently into his arms, so I whispered against his chest, “It’s done.”
~~~~~
Two hours later, Aro and I were curled up together on the couch near the fireplace in his suite of rooms. He asked me how my visit with Charlie went, so I told him about the different things we did together, then said, “Mostly, I missed you.”
Aro turned us so that I was laying down with him between my thighs. I kissed him deeply, then whispered while cupping his face in my hands, “I haven’t told you how the test went because I want you to see it for yourself.”
Less than a minute later, Aro gasped and venom filled his eyes. They connected with mine, so I smiled, “I love you, and I realized that just you being near and supporting me makes me stronger. Knowing that you were proud of me -and proud to be seen with me- even when I failed epically, was what got me through this week.”
His voice was hoarse with emotion as he asked, “Does this mean-”
I didn’t let him finish. I fisted my hands up into the back of his hair and pulled his lips to mine, then said seriously, “Let me be clear. This, right here and now, is me telling you I’m ready to make love t-”
This time, it was him who didn’t let me finish. His mouth captured mine with a deep groan, and I was instantly blown away by the depth of burning emotion he was putting into our kiss.
I wrapped my legs around his hips as my hands tightened in his hair, needing him closer. Aro hummed and broke the kiss, only to lift me in his arms and take us to his bedroom.
Clothing soon littered the floor, and I found myself naked and sitting on his masculine thighs. As his fingers ghosted over the crook of my neck, Aro whispered, "I love the delicate curve... right here."
His eyes were intent and smoldering as he watched his movements. His hands traced down each side of my neck, then down the side swells of my bare breasts as he continued, "And right here..."
They followed my sides down to the indentation of my waist, "Here..."
Then, as his fingers ghosted over my naked hips, he moaned, "And most certainly... right here."
My breath sped up slightly as I whispered, "I love the feel of your hands on my skin. Christ, it feels amazing."
Aro massaged my hips and thighs for a minute as his eyes took in my form, then said softly, "You truly are exquisite, Isabella."
I whimpered and shifted, the deep desire in his eyes arousing me more. In return, he moaned, pressing up against me as he pushed down slightly on my hips. I gasped and clutched at his chest, causing him to groan, "I need you more than blood, my little fire goddess."
I leaned down to kiss over his heart, then licked my way down his abs, tracing the definition lines of his muscles. God, he tasted incredible. He gasped as I nipped his hip, then whimpered when I licked his happy trail.
He grabbed my hands when they went to move lower, so I looked up at his endless obsidian eyes. "I didn’t mean for you to-"
I shushed him, "I want to taste you... all of you."
Aro’s eyes fluttered as he nodded and squeezed my hands gently, then I nipped his hip before sitting back. His cock was standing long, proud, and thick, with a bead of fluid resting at the slit. I licked my lips at the sight, then leaned in to flick my tongue against the tip.
I swirled my tongue around his tip, then wrapped my lips around him and sucked like a lollipop. His fingers went into my hair, keeping it back out of the way, causing me to moan my appreciation around his length as I took him deeper.
He gasped, tightening his hands in my hair slightly as he hit my throat, to which I moaned deeply. He choked out, "Fuck... so hot... relax your throat a bit."
I did, soon finding I could take him deeper. I kept the process up -relaxing and taking him deeper- until my nose was nestled against Aro's skin and he was babbling incoherently in a mix of Italian and English.
I backed up a bit before taking him fully again, then swallowed around him, moaning. He growled, "Fuck, Isabella... so close..."
I hummed and nodded as I quickened my pace. When I swallowed around him a few more times, he growled and cried out my name as he spilled into my mouth. I greedily drank it all down, moaning at his deliciously sweet taste.
When I sat back on my heels, I wiped my thumb against the drop on my bottom lip, then looked at him as I sucked it off my thumb. I instantly found myself on my back, Aro hovering over me while whispering, "That was the most intense thing I've ever felt, Isabella.”
I whimpered as he slid slowly down my body, biting gently on my nipples; my gasp was loud in the otherwise quiet space. When he bit down softly on the underside of my breast, my hands shot into his hair as I arched into him and cried out, "Fuck! Aro, that’s incredible."
He chuckled as he licked the indentations his teeth made, causing me to whimper, "More... so good..."
He hummed as he bit the same spot on the other breast, then I cried out his name as I trembled in an unexpected orgasm. He licked the marks, then bit both of my nipples gently, making me gasp and clutch his hair tightly in my hands.
I was a whimpering mess by the time Aro reached my core, having made me cum twice more before reaching it, then he ran his fingers through my wetness, "You're drenched, Isabella... completely soaked. I love seeing your sweet little pussy so ready for me."
He groaned in pleasure while sucking his fingers clean, then whispered as he descended toward my folds, "I have lived for the scent of tangy berries and cream for the last 4 months Isabella, yet still, your taste is infinitely better than I imagined.”
He spread my legs wide, wrapped his one arm around my thigh and laid it gently between my hips, then slid two fingers into me while lapping at my swollen clit. I cried out as the coil tightened considerably in my stomach, my fingers tightening in his raven hair. Aro hummed, "That's it... let yourself go for me. Give yourself to me completely, Isabella."
As the sensations started taking over, Aro pressed down just above my mound, massaged his fingers rapidly against my sweet spot, and bit down on my clit while flicking his tongue against the trapped flesh.
After one hell of a multiple orgasm, Aro slowly brought me down, making sure he sucked every bit of my juices from me that he could. I was still shaking and gasping when he pulled me into his arms to tenderly wipe my hair from my face.
Oddly enough, though I could feel my emotions rising as Aro filled me with pleasure, I could also feel the resulting energy wanting to be put toward making Aro feel just as much pleasure. His earlier moans, growls, and pleas for more had been the balm my soul needed. That’s why I felt no hesitation when I lifted enough to line his tip up with my entrance.
Aro pulled me into a passionate kiss as I slid down, causing me to moan loudly while scraping my nails up his back. He groaned and held me close, begging, “More, please. Don’t stifle your desire, my little fire goddess; give it all to me.”
The more we moved together and loved each other, the more burning emotion seeped out of me in the form of extreme pleasure for us both. My arms clutched him close, my teeth nipped and bit, my nails scraped up his back, and quite a few gasps and moans left my lips. Each action was rewarded by Aro kissing me passionately, groaning while thrusting deeper, begging me for more, or humming while touching me in just the right way.
We lay entwined together as the early morning sun shone through the windows. Our breathing was still a bit heavy from our last orgasms as Aro moved my sticky hair from my neck to place kisses along the length. I yawned, then hummed as I kissed the slightly sparkling skin over his heart, “Too tired for a shower. It’ll have to wait until I wake.”
He hummed into the top of my head in response, “Sleep, Isabella. I hope you know that I can never give you up, now that I have you, my little fire goddess.”
I nodded, my eyes becoming heavy as my breathing slowed, “I know… sorry it… took me so long.”
The last words I heard before I fell asleep were of Aro telling me he would have waited another 50 years for me to be ready.
~Fin~