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Chapter Text

The one where you died and left me a fanatically loyal warrior order.

I stare at the vampire, eyes wide, mouth hanging unattractively open. Concerned with my response, Demetri turned to his fellow guard member, Felix, who just gave a brief shrug.

"Master?"

I choke at the title. I'm dead, going from shock to complete denial. "Ughwah," my mouth blurts out, struggling to come up with something coherent and appropriately commanding.

The vampires take pity on me.

"We will return for your reply in three days?"

Mindlessly, my head bobs up and down.

After the vampires disappear, the werewolves decide to grace me with their presence. Renesmee has recently begun accompanying them on patrol. Absentmindedly, I wave at her.

Renesmee appears beside me, face murderous. "What happened?" she demanded.

I pause, not sure where to start. After all, it's not every day you're made King of Vampires.

"The vampire monarchy has always been established through challenges. Complete annihilation of the previous monarchy has been the only way to obtain power. There has never been a case where royalty was appointed by a previous ruler."

"To keep the balance," Carlisle continued, "The council needs a third vote to make decisions. As we've seen, Marcus is passive while Caius is aggressive. Aro is normally the deciding vote, his death left a void in the council."

"What I don't understand," Bella hissed, "is why did he choose a Cullen. We're a threat, we're the last family Aro would want on the throne."

Edward sighed in response, "Our last interaction with the Volturi has spread. Vampires consider the Volturi weak and have begun eyeing power, believing it wouldn't take much to unseat the Volturi. Aro's death is proof of the Volturi's vulnerability. We are the largest, most gifted, and most connected coven. "They are seeking to ally with us."

"The guards" Esme murmured.

"Were tied to Aro," Edward explained. "Aro made sure they were loyal to him foremost. Based on what I've heard, Chelsea didn't tie the guards strongly to Marcus and Caius.

The more I thought about it, the more I understood Aro's twisted logic. The Cullens were powerful. They were a threat to the Volturi. My ascension would ensure the Cullens would fall in line. Their fierce love and loyalty meant the Volturi not only gained me but also the entire Olympic coven as well. But why me?

I vocalized my thoughts, and it was Renesmee that replied.

'We're popular," Renesmee mused, "We have the strongest relationships with most vampire covens"

"But why not you?" I whined, "you're the responsible one."

She looked at me dryly, flicking her eyes to her promise ring. I paused. Damnit, Jacob.

I looked up to find Jasper and Edward exchanging meaningful looks.

"Uncle Jasper?"

Snapping out of their trance, Jasper looked at me. "Yes, Carlie?"

"What are you and Papa talking about?"

Edward interjected, "Nothing. Just some thoughts"

Jasper frowned, "Edward, she deserves to know"

I jutted my chin forward, "Yes, I do"

"Why must you take after your mother" Edward muttered. Bella rolled her eyes.

Jasper chose to spoke. If there was one thing I had to appreciate, it was Jasper's ability, to be honest, and direct. "It's possible that the Volturi doesn't plan on giving you any power. Marcus shouldn't bother you too much, but Caius will undermine you. At best, they'll keep you as a puppet." Grimacing, Jasper continued his analysis, "the guards may be loyal, but to what extent? We weren't popular our last meeting."

"But," I protested, "They're coming back in three days."

At this, Jasper pursed his lips in disapproval.

"Carlie, you can always reject the offer. It's dangerous."

Rosalie agreed with Jasper, choosing to weigh in. "You owe the Volturi nothing."

Indeed, I didn't owe them anything, and power grabs were dangerous

Although most of the Cullens agreed with Jasper's statement, I found myself looking at Edward, who hadn't weighed judgment. He understood how the Volturi worked. Most importantly, he understood me. He appeared resigned as if already knowing my decision.

He found me in our backyard, swinging on the swing set. He pushed me, seeing as I wasn't moving on the swing. I closed my eyes, knees bending when the swing came back down. There was much to think about, and much to discuss.

"Are you angry?"

"No"

"You're unhappy though"

"I want you to be safe"

I closed my eyes. "Staying home doesn't mean I'll be safe."

"It's safer than Italy"

I hummed in response, knowing I wouldn't win that conversation.

"Why do you want to leave?" He stopped the swing, and cradled my face, "your family is here. We adore you. Your sister is here, and she would be devastated-"

"She's leaving soon"

He frowned at that.

"She will be nearby"

"She has her own life to live, one that doesn't need constant interference from her family"

It was years in the making, but it was true. Renesmee was drifting away from the Cullens, finding solace in La Push with the werewolves and the rest of the imprints. She and Claire got along like a house on fire, something I was initially upset over before realizing their connection was something I could forge. That is unless a werewolf decided to imprint on me. The past few months Renesmee started learning interior designing and real estate with Esme. It was a subtle reminder that she and Jacob would start looking for their own house on La Push. It was too early for anything concrete to happen, but in a few years, Renesmee would have started her own family.

Edward was also painfully aware of this.

"You have your mother and me. You have your grandfather and grandmother. Your Aunts and Uncles. Why do you want to leave?"

"Because I want to live my own life" I mumbled, "I don't want to spend the rest of my life going to high school or college. I'm not Renesmee, I don't want to be a homemaker. I can't have a career because I don't age. What can I do with my life?"

"You could travel," Edward said, "Your Aunts wants to take you to fashion week in Milan. Carlisle says the hospital is looking for interns-"

"I want something substantial. I want somewhere to make my own place and to seize something with my own hands. I'm going, papa, because I want something more than this repetitive life."

At this, he fell silent. He didn't agree with what I said. In the end, he sighed, kissing the top of my head.

"Make sure to call us every day"

It's been one year since my crowning. Crime rate is down blood stores aplenty. Rebellious naysayers disposed of, and the rest of the vampire community silent on the matter. My reign is solidified. Some of my new policies included starting a vampire council comprised of vampires from large covens across the world. Nomads are welcome to drop-in, but most vampires chose to spectate in the audience.

The guards have also begun to recognize their leader is capable of taking care of herself.

Renata had died with Aro, so there were no guards gifted with defense. Subsequently, a bizarre guard rotation had formed. As a squishy half human, my 37 guards fretted over my fragility and decided unanimously I needed to be watched 24/7. I took this in stride, only stepping my foot down occasionally. The conversations normally went something like this:

"Master," Santiago pleaded.

I'm amused with his begging. "I fail to understand why I need two guards in my room watching me sleep."

"It's no issue," Felix grumbles, "we don't need to rest"

"What? No. That's not the issue here. The fact is, you will not station yourself in my room. Period."

The guards wilted and I felt a twinge of pity. "You can station yourself outside my room."

They perked up.

Ahh, compromise. Still, it's peaceful. Very peaceful, which was why I should have known the next vampire council meeting would be full of ridiculousness.

Tanya clears her throat. "Following up today's agenda, we would like to discuss Volturi's succession plans"

"To start with" one nameless representative from Japan said, "do you plan on having children?"

I stare down the council.

"And what is the council's purpose in inquiring this?" Caius asks scathingly.

"Has her highness chosen a father for her future children?"

Behind me, Felix and Demetri have turned to stone.

I look to Carlisle whose the representative for the Olympian coven. Raising an eyebrow, I silently ask my grandpa why he was onboard with this ridiculousness.

He smiles, face earnest and open.

I scowl.

Old man wants more great-grandchildren pitter-pattering around.

"And if I haven't?" I bite out.

"Allow the council to assist and select a potential father, especially as he will be involved in the caretaking of your children. Of course, the final candidate will be approved by your highness" Amun says gravely.

The brother and sister twins on the second floor flash their eyes flash ominously. I really hope they don't make a scene. It's tiring to have guards scrape vampire charcoal off the nice architecture.

"And why can't I simply nominate a successor?"

At this, Tanya voices her concern, "Bias, currying favor….a monarchy through bloodline is more favorable than one through nomination." Tanya is apologetic when she says this, clearly not as excited about the plan as the rest of the council.

In the end, Marcus was in favor of the council (the traitor) whereas Caius sneers at the council for their pathetic attempt at garnering power. It's a rare occasion for me and the sour-faced vampire to be on the side of a vote.

"I have heard the council's concerns, and will address the proposal in the future," I declare regally. 

Internally, I huff. In the far distant future.

The guards agree vehemently.

The next few years went quickly. Social media and video cameras made secrecy much more difficult, something vampires did not understand. There were several close run-ins and too many YouTube videos. Luckily, the general public consensus was too much body glitter and the recent supernatural craze taking over popular culture. Still, guards were sent out to have a thorough "talk" with the offenders.

At some point, I find myself in La Push visiting my sister.

We're sitting on the porch drinking iced tea diluted with O negative, watching her spawn toddle across the lawn.

"Isn't it nice," Renesmee hums, "to be back home?"

I look over my expensive Prada sunglasses.

"My home is centuries old architecture in the country of sprawling art and culture"

My sister smiles knowingly, "Nice try, but Jacob will never want step foot in vampire capital for a vacation"

I wave this aside, "Since when do you need him to go with you? Grab your passport and the kid, we got plenty of rooms. If it's an issue, leave the kid behind." I pauses, trying to entice her, "Italian men are also very pretty."

Renesmee laughs, "I think I'll be okay."

I sigh. "Your loss."

We watch the kid pick grass and shove it into his mouth before spitting it out. The scene is so idyllic. I'm wondering how my sister's crazy life became so mundane.

"You're happy?" I asks.

"Yes"

"Huh"

She sighs. "It's not without troubles. Jacob stopped phasing and has started aging again. It's not an issue, but in a few years…"

In a few years, my sister will appear eighteen whereas Jacob would look like he's in his late twenties. Given another five, ten years, and their relationship would turn heads. In twenty, thirty years, people might seriously call the cops on Jacob. He'll probably start phasing again to stop the aging process, but at some point in forever, Renesmee would look a lot younger than Jacob, and that would just lead to all sorts of weird implications. Jacob would live longer than most, but he could very well stop phasing, age, and pass away one day.

Renesmee would live forever. Probably not alone. She'll have the the kids and the grandkids and maybe even find a new lover or two. She could also foster cats or something.

"I'm sorry," is the only I have to offer.

"Don't be, I'm happy. I have no regrets." Renesmee smiles, "if anything, you should consider finding someone to make you happy."

"I don't need someone to be happy."

"No," she agrees, "but it's nice to have someone."

Renesmee impishly adds, "I've seen the way your guard looks at you. You look at him the same way."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Carlie"

I throw my hands in the air, "it's weird, okay. It's wrong because of the power dynamic. They call me "Master" and that adds all sorts of difficult I don't want to deal with. What if it all goes FUBAR?"

My sister is unimpressed, "You have to try"

"There isn't a reset button."

"There shouldn't be one."

"Please stop. I'll think about it, okay?"

She considers this and nods. The subject matter is closed, and we continue watching the kid toddle and eat grass.

On Monday, I fly back to my city. Way too many guards greet me at the airport. I allow them to fuss over my bags and arrange the protection detail. By the time I get to the council room, I'm eager to sit in my heavily plushy throne. Immediately, Caius and Marcus start updating me on the crisis in Brazil.

It's good to be home.

Chapter Text

In another universe where Alice still can't see werewolves and Edward's still irritated at Jacob, Carlie despairs over the state of canon. 

Fanning myself with the pamphlet, I drooled over the unveiling of the latest Chanel collection. Thin models in towering heels strutted across the catwalk, displaying the latest Spring and Fall line proudly.

While Chloe was my favorite French fashion brand by far, I had to admit that Chanel was iconic for a good reason.

Normally, I would never subjugate myself to the frenzied hot mess that's Paris Fashion Week, but desperate times calls for desperate measures. Right now I'm wilting under the catty judgment of the Parsian audience floor. I knew I wasn't unfashionable because Alice picked out my outfit. Still, I felt like the country duckling who wandered into a party for swans.

For Aunt Rosalie, I reminded myself.

Since dropping out of college, I've been angsting around Europe.

In my defense, I had good reason to angst.

After an uncomfortable conversation with Jasper and Edward, I learned I had to "keep my head down" in college. This boiled down to no team sports, no student government, no leadership positions, no scholarship applications, and no research. Basically, I couldn't get involved in anything where my name, my work, and my face could be immortalized in digital history. The less impression the Cullens made, the better.

Trying to build a career was off limits, too. This meant my college experience was limited to attending class.

So really, what's the point of college?

Renesmee disagreed with me. She's all about learning for the sake of learning. I'm not on that bandwagon. I don't believe in that bandwagon.

When I started trudging to Linear Algebra class acting like I bore the weight of the cross on my shoulders, Edward exasperatedly tossed me the family's Black American Express Card.

"A long time ago, I also got really angry at your grandparents for telling me what I could and couldn't do. I took off, trying to find the meaning of life. Traveling was good for me, and it's probably good for you right now."

I took the card, cleaned out my dorm, and hopped on a flight to Norway.

Gratefully, the Cullens didn't hover.

I was doing okay this year until I received an unhappy phone call from Bella. Considering vampires had an eternity of birthdays in the future, I didn't think it was a big deal to show-up or call on Rosalie's birthday.

Apparently, I was wrong. After getting heavily chewed out by Bella for letting down my Aunt, I swore up and down to visit home with an appropriately groveling gift. As of right now, I'm on the next flight to Seattle where Edward would pick me up and haul me back to Forks.

And so this is the reason why I was stuck in Paris trying to pick out a gift for Rosalie. Hopefully, I'll find the right thing at the Chanel after-show auction. I honestly wished Alice could see my future so I could have finished this errand days ago.

Just as the parade of models are coming to a close, my phone buzzes.

It's Renesmee.

HE SAID YES. 

I type back enthusiastically, Can I call you in an hour to talk about it? 

Renesmee instantly replies. Of course!

An hour later and several vicious bids later, I'm the proud owner of a limited-edition 1970's white leather Chanel bag. I'm quite proud of myself as I strut out the auction with my purchase.

Walking back to my hotel, I call my sister.

"Hey!" she answers, "can you believe it? Chad actually said yes. We're going on our first date this weekend!"

Honestly, I hope Chad doesn't work out. From what I heard, Chad sounded like a pretty uninspiring guy.

"Where are you guys going?" I ask.

"Oh," she says nervously, "I'm not sure yet. Maybe coffee? A dinner and a movie?"

"...are you planning this or is he?"

"Still figuring it out," she says, noncommittal.

Ugh.

Like I said, an uninspiring guy.

"Just don't agree to some version of Netflix and Chill in his room," I offer up, "That's lingo for wanting to get into your pants. Go somewhere public for sure. You should do some type of activity for the first date. Nothing sucks more than sitting awkwardly in a coffee shop for an hour struggling to say something."

"Okay, that sounds do-able. I've been getting conflicting tips from everyone."

Considering how small our circle is, I sincerely hope she didn't go to the Cullens for dating advice.

"Please tell me you didn't ask Mama or Papa."While Bella and Edward's love story was entertaining enough for the love-crazed millions, their dating decisions should not serve as anyone's dating guide.

"...I'm not crazy," she huffs.

I chuckle. "Ok, ok. Just checking."

Renesmee giggles, "I would never ask Mom and Dad for dating advice. I did talk to Jacob, though. He had some really helpful ideas."

I trip on a cobblestone. Really? She asked Jacob?

These past years, I've been proud of my sister's dating life. I think it's healthy and good that she's not bowing down to imprint expectations. Like, if she wants to explore her options, I'm a hundred percent all for that. Get your game on.

Still, asking the werewolf who imprinted on you for dating advice is weird. Cruel, even.

I'm struggling, trying to formulate an appropriate supportive response. "Uh, that's good. I'm glad he gave you some helpful advice, but don't you think it's a little insensitive?"

"How is it insensitive?" she asks, obviously confused.

"Uh. Well, consider his circumstances." I wince at my lame response. It's hard to talk about imprinting without using the words "imprint" and "soulmate"

For some reason, the Cullens never like to talk about the whole Jacob's imprinting incident. There's definitely a family awareness since Edward gets twitchy whenever he looks too long at Jacob. He flexes his hands often, as if willing away the desire to rip out Jacob's eyeballs. This happens a lot during Christmas. Most notably, whenever Edward spots Renesme's newly gifted "promise bracelet"

Still, no one actually acknowledges this imprinting business out loud. At the very least, it's never spoken about freely in front of Renesmee or me. If it weren't for my knowledge of the Twilight Universe, I probably wouldn't know anything about Jacob imprinting. Now that I'm thinking about it, I'm not sure if Renesmee even knows. I never bring it up. She never brings it up. Our family certainly never brings it up.

And this is the moment I realize that Renesmee probably has no idea she's the center of Jacob's universe. 

Oh god. Do I tell her? If it was my child, I would say nothing. Imagine that conversation: Hey, daughter. Jacob here protected our family from being killed by enemy werewolves and an army of vampires because you're his soulmate. No pressure or anything, but you should know that you're the light of his life. Always & forever.

Talk about baggage. If it was my child, I would say absolutely nothing.

But as a sister, what should I do? Everyone knows Jacob imprinted on Renesmee. When I say everyone, I mean everyone . From our family to his family, from Sam's pack to the Volturi, everyone of supernatural note knows he imprintrd on her. She's probably the only person who doesn't know. As her sister, I have to tell her. She can't live her life with everyone knowing except her. This is about her. She has a right to know.

"Consider his circumstances," I begin, trying to approach this sensitive topic gently. "Ever since we were children, you guys have a special bond."

"-Of course we have a special bond," my sister interrupts, annoyed. "We grew up with him. Maybe it's not as special as your connection, but Jacob and I are doing ok."

I'm getting irritated with Renesmee interrupting me.

"Excuse me?" I hear myself say, "You guys have the most special relationship possible. You're the one he imprinted on."

Oh fudge-sickles, I wasn't supposed to blurt it out like that. People in the hotel lobby are starting to give me dirty looks for acting like the loud American. I flee to the eleveators. There must be a bad signal in the elevator because Renesmee's voice starts cutting in and out. When I step on my hotel floor, Renesmee's voice cuts back in.

"Carlie?" she calls out.

"Yeah, I'm here," I say, juggling the phone and the hotel key card at the same time. My hotel door light flashes a triumphant green. I enter my hotel room. Flopping on the recently made bed, I start pulling off my pumps.

My feet flex in delight.

"Carlie!" Renesmee says again, demanding my attention.

I let out a sigh. Clearly, it's time to start saying 'sorry' when Renesmee pulls out the angry Big Sister tone. "Okay, I'm sorry for dropping this bomb on you. I shouldn't be telling you this, but I feel very strongly that you have the right to know. It's not fair everyone's keeping this from you."

"Carlie," Renesmee repeats, voice urgent. She's breathing heavily into the phone now, struggling to get the next few words out.

"You don't understand. You-you got it all wrong. Jacob didn't imprint on me. He imprinted on you."

...

.

...

What DAFQ?

What kind of crack is she smoking in college?

My voice is strained when I say, "No, Renesmee, I think I would know if Jacob imprinted on me." And if there was anything memorable from Breaking Dawn , it was the horrific moment Jacob imprinted on baby Renesmee and her warm Bella-chocolaty eyes.

Renesmee laughs, her voice hysterical.

Oh shit, she's having a mental breakdown.

"Look," I ground out, "it's obvious for several reasons. Ever since we were children, he's been hovering over you like some big protector. He's the one that held you and fed you. I don't even remember him picking me up. He took care of you while Aunt Rose took care of me. When we got older, he spent so much time hunting with you. For Christmas every year, he makes you a freakin' promise bracelet . That's the Quileute way of saying he wants to marry you. You know Papa gets weird whenever he sees that bracelet. Also, you're on super good relations with Emily Young, Kim Cameron, and Rachel Black. They invite you to La Push for social gatherings all the time. Why would do they that? I don't know, maybe it has something to do with that fact that you're all imprints of werewolves!"

I finish my monologue with great triumph. "Well?" I ask.

"...you're delusional"

Ok, clearly this conversation isn't going well.

"Look," she says, "the reason why he didn't hold you was because Mom and Dad didn't want him touching you. He imprinted on a baby. They were uncomfortable and sensitive about him handling you. That's why Aunt Rose held and fed you. Mom and Dad understood that he needed to be near you, so they let him hang around. Aunt Rose got irritated at his aggressive nitpicking, so she had him look after me."

What on earth is she talking about?

She continues, "Jacob took me hunting because my sister, Carlie Cullen, wanted him to go with me. Whenever I asked you to go hunting with me, you'd say hunting was gross and offer up Jacob as your replacement. Jacob's so whipped he just did whatever you wanted.

I interrupt her, "But mom went with you guys as a chaperone"

"Mom went with us because Jacob was seventeen. We go hunting in the middle of nowhere. She's not going to trust a teenager with her baby toddler."

"And the promise bracelet?" I bring up, voice pitched high.

Really, how do you explain the promise bracelet?

"It's a friendship bracelet," she exasperatedly says, "remember the time we watched My Little Pony? After we watched an episode on friendship bracelets, I wanted to make them with you. You said that friendship bracelets were stupid, and you weren't going to make me one. I got mad, you got mean, and Mom put us on time-out. Jacob broke-up our fight by saying he'll make bracelets for me. It became our thing," she stresses, "We make friendship bracelets for each other as a gag gift. You know, Jacob wanted to make you one, but you told him you wanted wooden carvings and dream catchers. How do you not remember any of this?"

I remember. I remember the My Little Pony incident as me avoiding involvement in Renesmee and Jacob's creepy 'promise bracelet' exchange.

I tell her as such.

"Oh my god, Carlie. Jacob spends ten minutes braiding my gift. He spends months carving wood for you. Don't give me any crap about this. He spends more time and energy on your presents. That means something. Yes, Dad does gets weird about my bracelet. He gets weird because he starts thinking about the ring Jacob will give you someday"

I drop my phone in horror.

Renesmee's voice blares from the speaker.

"Is this why you reject Emily Young's invitations? Did you think lunch was some code for a weird werewolf-imprinte brunch club ? "

Yes, I totally thought it was some club for werewolf imprints.

"This was Emily's way of extending the olive branch. She's trying to mend werewolf-vampire relations between our family and her husband's pack. So of course I have to be friendly with Claire and Emily. I'm the one representing the family while my sister flakes out. What did you think your invitation was? A pity invite?"

And for the first time during this entirely ludicrous conversation, I feel doubt and dread pooling in my lower stomach.

"Okay," I say, picking up the phone, "So maybe I got some facts wrong. But I think there's a big misunderstanding here. I would know if I'm someone's soulmate. Like, I would know. This is all just a very big misunderstanding."

"No, this is not a misunderstanding. Ask our parents. Or better yet, talk to Jacob. Because as of right now, if you want to talk about this, you're going to have to find someone else."

"Wait. No, Nessie, hear me out-"

The phone disconnects.

In my empty hotel room, I look at my phone stunned. Laughing nervously, I hastily type out a text.

I'm sorry, Renesmee, but you got this all mixed up.

.

.

.

.

.

.

.

Right?

Chapter Text

In which Carlie gets 'the talk'

Chapter Text

Sometimes you fall out of love because you fell in love with who you thought they were and not who they really are.

And you-you loved me because I'm fragile.

It's December at the University of Washington-Seattle. Right now, Renesmee and I are trying to pick out what constitutes food in the student cafeteria known as "Local Point." I have nothing against a University that boasts that they "source locally" with "wholesome" fresh fruits and vegetables, but I do have a thing against charging $12 a plate for lukewarm food cooked by student chefs.

"How about the Asian fusion stir-fry," Renesmee points out, squinting at the vegetables generously covered in yellow-mustard curry sauce.

"That looks like vomit," I comment unhelpfully.

My sister scowls, but she must see the similarities because she walks away from that particular food vendor.

I check-out the plates of students who are already sitting down and eating. None of their meals look remotely appetizing. As usual, it seems like the best option is the Italian station and their freshly baked pizzas. $3.5 for a slice, a highway robbery for pizza, but one of the cheapest options here.

Renesmee confronts me at the pizza station, cutting in line. The students behind me start scowling, but don't actively protest. Seattle breeds non-confrontational pansies when it comes to line-cutting.

"Pizza again?" Renesmee grimaces, "We both agreed to try and eat healthy. Freshman fifteen is a real thing."

"You said we were going to eat healthy. I, on the other hand, am saving myself from food poisoning."

Indeed, the rest of the options were absolutely horrifying.

"Get a salad at least"

"I'm okay dying fat and happy"

Reensmee rolls her eyes.

When we reach the front of the line, Renesme picks out a small caesar salad and a slice of mushroom-pepper pizza. I scoff at her attempts to eat healthy. When eating white bread layered with cheese, a few slices of vegetables aren't going to save you from heart disease. If you're going to splurge on pizza, get what you really want.

When it's my turn, I get the meat lover's pizza with extra cheese.

Mhhm, come to daddy.

As Renesmeee gives the cashier her student card, I turn to the utensils station. "I'm going to get some chilli flakes. Do you want me to grab a knife and fork for your pizza?"

"Yeah, thanks. Grab some extra napkins, too"

I raise my hand in acknowledgement. At the station, I grab the utensils and shower my pizza with spicy chili flakes.

Ever since Renesmee saw some international students eating pizza with a fork and knife, she's been on that particular bandwagon ever since. It's refined, she insists, less savage. My sister doesn't like anything that leaves a mess over her mouth. It's one of the reasons why she hates hunting for blood. So however weird it is to eat pizza with a knife and a fork, it's not an argument I want to start with her.

When I finish getting all the stuff, I find Renesmee sitting in the back of the cafeteria on some grey couches.

Renesmee's face is scrunched in confusion when I approach her.

"Aunt Rosalie and Aunt Alice are here," she says.

I sit down across from her, "Like, in Seattle?"

"No, like here here. They're in the U-district right now, trying to find parking. After they park the car, they're coming here to find us."

"Did they say why?"

She shakes her head. "I don't know, they didn't say. Aunt Rosalie sounded angry, though."

Rosalie is vicious and snobby, but she always made a point to be kind to her beloved and precious nieces.

"Ok. This sounds bad."

"I'm sure it's nothing horrible," Renesmee brushes off, "If it was an emergency, they would just tell us to pack up and leave."

"It's still a bad sign," I point out, "them showing up with no explanation and warning"

Renesmee scowls at my pessimism, "just eat your pizza."

I shrug and start chowing down my delectably fatty dinner. As usual, it's pretty amazing. Renesmee starts her process of cutting her pizza into tiny bird-size bites. Some boys sitting on the couch next to us are pointing and laughing at Renesmee's antics.

I glare at them darkly. Mind your own business.

They're laughing until suddenly they're not. With little fanfare, their faces suddenly go slack in shock and their mouths fall open. A little drool starts spilling out.

Well, it looks like Aunt Rose has arrived.

Sure enough, I turn in my seat to see Rosalie and Alice. Rosalie, as usual, looks like a Blonde Goddess. She's absolutely devastating in high-waisted skinny jeans and a sky-blue wrap top. Her blonde sweeps across her face in beachy waves, framing her face like a seductive VS model.

Honestly, it's a wonder Renesmee and I didn't grow up with inferiority complexes hanging around someone as hot as Rosalie.

The female vampire in question flashes a dimpled smile. It's directed at the boys sitting next to us.

"Hello," her voice chimes out, "do you mind if I have these seats?"

"S-sure, no problem," one of the boys chokes out. Still, they don't move, choosing to stare at Rosalie in fascination. When Rosalie lifts an imperious eyebrow, the boys sputter and start piling all their trash onto their trays before evacuating the cafeteria table.

"Holy crap, she's so hot," one of them mutters under their breath.

Another groans miserably, "I should go back and ask for her number."

"Yeah right, like she'd give it to you."

"Shut up"

Their voices trail off and Rosalie flips her hair in satisfaction. Alice laughs, voice tinkling in amusement. Both of them sit down gracefully in the recently evacuated seats. Rosalie crosses her legs, her shapely body forming an attractive S-shape figure.

"It's good to see you girls. How's college going?"

"It's been okay so far," Renesmee offers tentatively. "We're happy to see you, but is something wrong? You sounded upset over the phone."

Alice and Rosalie both grimace.

"We have some bad news," Alice says softly.

"Did someone die?" I cut in, "Is grandpa sick? It's not the Volturi right?"

Alice shakes her head in dismissal. "No no, nothing like that. No one is dead or dying. And the Volturi is not involved this time."

Rosalie snorts and Alice shoots her a disapproving look.

"It's your parents" she says.

"Dad sounded fine yesterday when we called him," Renesmee comments slowly.

Alice sighs heavily. "Of course he didn't mention anything. They're so badly in denial. But it's already been a few months, and this thing isn't resolving itself any time soon. You'll find out eventually."

'Find out what?" Renesmee presses.

"Your parents are getting a divorce." Rosalie says matter-of-factly, her mouth tightening into a hard line.

Renesmee and I burst into laughter.

There is no way Edward and Bella are getting a divorce. They're one of those insufferable couples that makes everyone uncomfortable in their proximity. It's just like how Renee once described. Edward and Bella act as two planetary bodies that orbit each other, completely drawn into each other's gravity. When Edward moves, Bella moves with him.

Renesmee and I had the unfortunate experience of attending high school with them. It's an experience to go to high school with your parents around. Some of my friends had parents who taught at our school. They said it's a little weird, but they assured me that they can ha e a positive high-school experience with their parents hovering around.

However, I argue it's another thing entirely to watch your parents flirt in class, recite poetry to each other, and issue ridiculous prom proposals.

I still remember when Edward opened his locker and a bunch of balloons flew out. Bella appeared with a basket of red apples asking Edward to go to prom with her.

He said yes with fervent ardour.

As the student spectators clapped, Renesmee and I were busy gagging in the audience.

Our parents are ridiculously extra.

"There's no way," Renesmee giggles, "Dad says that they're on vacation right now. It's their anniversary and apparently Alaska is gorgeous this time of year."

"Technically," Alice says neutrally, "that's true. They are on a romantic vacation. Only, they're on separate vacations."

Renesmee and I exchange looks.

"We don't get it," I voice out.

Alice opens her mouth to explain, but Rosalie cuts in before she gets a chance.

"Basically, your Aunt is trying to say that your mother has taken an Italian lover and has run off with him. Your father, absolutely devastated, has started sleeping his way through all the female vampires he can get his hands on. Right now, he's holed up with Tanya in Alaska somewhere."

I choke on my pizza.

What?

Alice is scowling fiercely. "Rosalie, I was trying to break this news gently."

"Well, you weren't getting very far," Rosalie sniffs.

Across from me, Renesmee is furious. Her metal fork is snapped in half. "Mom did what?"

"It's not that big of a surprise," Rosalie comments blithely, "your mother's always been a selfish-"

"Okay!" Alice interrupts, "no need for that."

Rosalie frowns, but snaps her mouth shut. Alice takes a deep breath before starting up again.

"Right now, your parents are going through a rough patch. We thought this was going to be fixed quickly, so we didn't say anything sooner. However, it's been several months, and I don't see this being resolved any time soon." And coming from Alice, her not "seeing" bodes serious implications for the future. "Both of you are coming home during winter break and your parents plan on bringing their new lovers home. Your Aunt Rose and I agreed that you deserve a good heads-up."

That's some heads-up. Me and Renesmee are driving home in three days. Still, I appreciate them dropping the news after we finished our final exams for the quarter.

I fold my arms, disgruntled. "Can we not go home this year? Renesmee and I can stay in the dorms."

"Carlie," Rosalie stays sternly, "your family wants to see the two of you. Your grandma has been trolling William & Sonoma for weeks trying to decorate the house. She even started attending fancy cooking classes to make the two of you a full Christmas spread. Carlisle has already requested time off from the hospital. You will come home for Christmas."

"I also want to see Jacob," Renesmee adds unhelpfully.

I throw my hands in the air. "Fine fine, we're going home for Christmas. I just don't understand how this could have happened"

"Believe me," Alice says darkly, "I did not anticipate this happening either. But it is happening, and everyone needs to get on board with the program."

Renesmee scowls angrily and touches my forearm.

We are so calling Mom tonight.

To Bella's credit, she didn't deny anything.

"Who told you? It was your Aunt Rose, wasn't it? I thought we got past all this unpleasantness after I gave birth, but she's always going to be a vindictive harpy toward me."

Sitting across from me, Renesmee's cheeks pulsate in anger.

I shoot her a look. Chill.

"Well, mama, we were going to find out eventually." I offer placatingly.

"I know, but I wanted to be the one to tell you tow. Unfortunately, there was never a good time," Bella says, her voice colored in frustration.

I lie on my twin-sized bed, trying to get comfortable. "What happened? I thought you and papa were happy."

There's a noticeable pause.

"Is your sister nearby?"

I look at Renesmee and the sister in question shoots me a harsh glare.

I want to hear this.

"No," I lied. Unlike Bella, I'm a pretty convincing liar.

"That's good," she sighs in relief.

My relationship with Bella is akin to her relationship with her own mother, Renée. I don't idolize Bella, I don't put her on a pedestal. When I was growing up, I chose to rely on myself. When frustrated or bored, I sought out one of my many Aunts and Uncles.

But for Renesmee, she did idolize Bella and put her on a pedestal. For every little thing problem, she went to Bella for advice. Up until now, she's adored Bella to an unerring degree.

Obviously, Bella is currently trying to preserve her image as an respectable maternal figure.

As for me, I've never seen her as like that. For the two of us, we've taken on a daughter-mother relationship more akin to each other's confidants.

"I spent a long time thinking about this," my mother says quietly. "Surprsingly enough, your father and I never really spent quality time with each other. Our relationship was built on a continuous series of crises. There was always something happening one after another. Even after our marriage, we spent very little alone time together. After the Volturi came and left, our coven made the decision to all live together as one large family. Your aunts, uncles and grandparents enjoyed the years watching and taking care of you two. So once the two of you moved out, the entire family scattered quickly as well." Bella takes a deep breath, "And so for the first time in years, your father and I were alone with just each other for company. We had nothing but time and space on our hands."

"We tried," she insists frantically, "we tried so hard to be happy together. We picked up hobbies together, we went on trips, we tried new ways to make love, but nothing worked. It was just-just not enough."

I let out a noise of understanding.

"When it all became too much, I went to travel by myself. I felt like I needed some time alone, some space to be by myself, so when I returned home I could fully appreciate your father and the wonderful life we built together."

"But that didn't happen. You met someone," I commented.

"Yes," she says softly, "I met someone else."

"Is he a human or a vampire?"

"He's a vampire."

"Do we know him?"

I'm curious whether this vampire knows what kind of crap he's getting into.

At this, Bella gets all quiet before stuttering out.

"His name is Felix. He used to part of the Volturi guard, but he's left the guard since we've gotten together."

.

Renesmee moves both hands to her lips, trying to prevent any noise leaving her mouth. I throw her a pillow, and she buries her face into it, smothering her screams of frustration.

I wanted to say didn't he try to kill you and our family but it's obvious that wasn't what Bella wanted to hear. She probably already got that entire spiel from someone else.

.

"Is he your mate?" I ask bluntly.

"I think so," she admits, embarrassed. "We've ran into each other a few times before, but it wasn't until we spent one-on-one time together did we recognize something more was there. When we bumped into each other in Europe, he insisted on following me around to make sure I didn't cause any trouble for the Volturi. Given our history, I was irritated and angry at him for stalking me. But by the time we reached Verona, he was able to charm me completely." She laughs, "He even convinced me to sneak into the Romeo and Juliet museum at night. It was so exhilarating. I've never done anything like that before. It was during that night I realized I laughed more with Felix than I'd ever laughed before. I love your father, but he's always so serious, so perfect."

Bella's voice takes on a more urgent tone."You know, I never realized how often your father makes decisions on my behalf. I always assumed he knew what was best. It wasn't until I met Felix did I realize your father rarely treats me like an equal. He always takes what I say with a grain of salt and does whatever he wants instead. Felix is different. Felix always asks what I wants and listens. And the sex, god, the sex is so incredibly amazing and filthy--"

I tune this part out. I get that Edward has a lot of character flaws. Bella is on point with most of her criticisms, but I do not need to hear about her sex life.

"-so long as you're happy and he's not trying to take advantage of you, I support your decision, mama."

Because really, what else was there to say?

Renesmee starts hitting me with the pillow. HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT HER CHEATING?!

I smack the pillow away. Stop it, I'm on the phone.

Blessedly, Renesmee stops and makes silent angry faces at me.

"Thank you," Bella says gratefully, "You know I can't talk about this with anyone else. Everyone is on your dad's side and is absolutely furious with me."

"Well," I comment idly, "considering that Papa started shacking up with Tanya, I think everyone is going to get over the separation sooner or later."

"He's doing what?" Bella snarls.

Oh, fudge-sickles. I thought she knew.

"Um," I stutter out, looking to Renesmee for help. My sister just shrugs. You got yourself into this mess.

Thanks, sis, really helpful.

"Papa is in Alaska with the Denalis," I state, trying to deemphasize the part where he's with Tanya in an isolated cabin in the woods banging his heart out.

"I knew it," Bella hisses, "I knew that blond skank was just waiting to sink her hooks into him. Your father said he was never into her, but I always knew that was a lie. Is he bringing her home for Christmas?"

Okayyy it's time to hang up now.

"I have no idea if papa is bringing Tanya back for Christmas. Mama, I love you, but I have to go now. I have a few errands I need to run," I blurt out.

"Oh, alright. I'll see you in a few days," she huffs out.

I mumble out some more pleasantries before hanging up the phone.

Renesmee flops onto the bed, lying close to me. Our heads bump into each other. "Christmas is going to suck this year," she comments.

"We don't have to go back home" I offer up, "I'm totally fine with staying here."

Renesmee scowls and smacks me again with the pillow.

Yeah, I guess I deserved that.

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