Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Avery and I had been in the foster home for nearly two weeks. A crowded foster family of now seven in an older home in the center of Forks. Mr. and Mrs. Harvey were okay fosters, but the younger kids needed their attention and support more. Which left Avery, at seventeen, and me at sixteen to fend for ourselves.

“Sera!”

“What?”

I turned from staring out the window in our shared room, Avery had a look of surprise on her face. Interested, I asked her what happened.

“There’s a family, the Wilsons. They would like to adopt, but none of the younger kids.”

I stood up, my hands running up and down the grey knit sweater in anticipation. Avery and I were the oldest in the foster family, the others aged eleven and younger. So maybe there was still hope for us.

“That’s great! Are they choosing us then?”

But Avery seemed to hesitate then. That rush of excitement left.

“Well, they only have room for one of us.”

I stilled, “Oh, are you sure?”

“Yeah. I know, that’s the only part that doesn’t work.”

I turned and sat on my bed. The narrow twin mattress creaked. I sat there thinking.

Avery continued, “I mean, they’ll probably pick you. You’re the second oldest out of us. A little nicer to adults.”

I looked up in disbelief. “Avery, I’m not a stuck-up.”

“I didn’t say that.”

“No, but it’s what you really think.”

Avery rolled her eyes and stepped towards the window. The rain had picked up again. The wind rattled the window, water forming at the bottom of it. The old towel placed there since we got to the home was now mostly soaked up with rainwater. This place was almost on the brink of disarray.

I had mostly avoided that mindset. As hectic as it was to survive the crash and lose our mother, I was hopeful and not so easily prone to lesser disposition. But Avery was. She was always prone to negativity and the first to give up so easily.

I looked up and watched as her eyes reflected her anger and anxiety. She paced a little. She went back out of the room to the bathroom, and then came back a few minutes later. She was never at ease, especially here. If anybody deserved a second chance she did.

“Avery, I think you should go and live with the Wilsons.”

She looked at me intently, “Are you sure? I mean, we’ll still see each other and all. It’s not like, a forever parting. But that, I don’t know. You’ll be stuck here.”
I shook off her worry. I could manage the foster system a bit better. I might even get lucky and get adopted or switched to a less crowded foster home. I would make do. But my sister needed a better start right now.

I got up and approached her at the window. We watched the rain hit the window and the distant flash of lightning.

I turned to her, “You need it more than I do. A chance at a better beginning at least.”

She threw her arm around me, “Thanks, sis. I can’t stand this shithole any longer.”

We laughed a little. And Avery went down to let The Harveys know of our decision. In the meantime, I went to lie back down. I still had lingering symptoms of a concussion. A dull headache, inability to focus. Perhaps tomorrow when I went for a check-up it would be all but gone and I could focus on starting school again.

That evening, around dinner time the Wilsons came to pick up Avery. I got up and walked downstairs with her and waited in the front room. When they got there Mr. Harvey let them in. The Wilsons were both lithe and tall, a couple with a calm demeanor. Mr. Wilson was balding and had the working hands of a foreman. He made friendly talk with Mr. Harvey and greeted us girls. And Mrs. Wilson resembled our mother a little.

She was brunette, with the same hazel eyes and she talked with excitement and friendliness. Like our mother used to. I leaned in and whispered to Avery, “I think they’re wonderful.”

Avery nodded. A few minutes later the Wilsons signed the adoption forms and left with my sister. I stood on the porch and gave her a quick hug. Miraculously I didn’t cry, but my throat grew tight and I was at a loss for words.

Avery walked down the steps waving her hand in a goodbye gesture. I waved back, “Goodbye.”

I watched them drive off in a single cab chevy. Avery sat in the middle between them. The truck disappeared down the street, splashing up puddles of rainwater as it went.

“Come on dear, I made a chicken roast for dinner.”

I took one look as the truck turned left and drove out of sight. I sighed.

“That sounds good.”

Chapter Text

Mrs. Harvey and I arrived at Forks General a half hour before my appointment. The waiting room was nearly empty, with only four other people ahead of me. Including, an older couple on one side of the room, a pregnant woman reading a magazine, and a young girl with her right arm in a cast.

Today my head was much better. The headache was gone, and I could focus more. It was a relief to not flinch in direct light or under the fluorescents in the waiting room. And though the worry of a head injury ceased, the worry about Avery’s well-being grew. Only a day had passed since the Wilsons took Avery in, with no plans made for us to reconnect. I think if I really needed to I could ask for their number and give them a call.

I turned to ask, “Mrs. Harvey?”

“Yes, dear?” She asked looking up from a book she was reading.

“You wouldn’t mind… once we got home if, I could have the Wilson’s number, to call and check on my sister?” I asked hesitantly, worried I could be bothering her.

Mrs. Harvey gave a light chuckle, “Of course, remind me after we pick up the kiddos and get home.”

“Okay, thanks.” Oh good. Hopefully, now I could at least have a phone call later with Avery to see how she’s doing. With that worry now not as urgent, I let myself zone out for the time being, and idly watched the waiting room clear out.

One by one the other patients were called back and came out within the next twenty minutes. It appeared not even a hospital waiting room in Forks was worthy of a crowd. And now that I think about this town, it feels like the whole place held this sort of mystic and sheltered feeling. Forks was nothing Avery and I had ever known. So far everyone had been kind and welcoming. Strangers you pass by on the street, courteous limber truck drivers, and even Chief Swan gives a small wave during his patrols always willing to offer his help. But still, apprehension about a cause I didn’t know grew. And it had nothing to do with Avery or living in foster care.

“Seraphina,”

An MA standing at the front desk called my name. I got up and made my way to meet her.

“Are you alright on your own?” Mrs. Harvey asked

I turned to glance back “Yes, I’ll be fine.”

The MA led me down the hall past two double swinging doors and into an empty exam room. My heartbeat sped up, and up until recently I never had any anxiety associated with medical rooms or hospitals. But the crisp smell of antiseptic and sterile equipment made my stomach run a little cold. I gingerly sat down on the exam seat, the paper on the seat crinkled breaking the brief silence.

The MA looked up from a clipboard, “It says here you were suffering from a mild concussion and some minor lacerations?”

I fumbled with the sleeve of my shirt a bit, “Uh yes. My head feels better though now. And the cuts on my arms are all but healed.”

After a quick examination, the MA went to leave.

“Everything looks good. We’ll just have the doctor come in and remove those stitches.”

“Okay, thanks.”

Alone in the exam room, I took a couple of deep breaths. I focused on the fullness I felt in my chest with each breath. "I’m alright," I tried to tell myself. "You just have to get some stitches removed. Grow up." That’s what Mom used to say. "Grow up." Whenever Avery and I cried or were being difficult. There wasn't time or room for us to be much of children. We had to grow up fast. But now our mom wasn’t here to remind me. I had to remind myself.

Knock knock

A light knock from the door pulled me from my thoughts, “Come in.”

The door opened, and the doctor came in. A very handsome doctor that caught me completely by surprise. He looked young, kind with a gentle smile. His eyes were a very light brown, like an amber liquid with light shining through from behind. And his hair was golden as blond hair gets. I wasn’t worried about those stitches anymore.

“Hello, Miss Walker. I’m Doctor Cullen. How are you today?”

“Um, hi. You can call me Sera. I’m good I think.”

Oh, gods that was awkward. But Doctor Cullen gave a polite chuckle and got straight to work.

“That’s good to hear.”

He made his way to the small sink to the left of me, washed his hands and put white exam gloves on. I gripped the seat below me to ground myself. How on earth was he so handsome? And it wasn’t just physical either. You could feel it in your being that he was on another level of beauty and wonder. And then that feeling I had earlier about a worry I didn’t know was now gone. As much as I was anxious about his presence as an attractive man, I was also mysteriously relieved.

“Are you alright Sera?”

He was in front of me now, assessing me as a doctor would but with extra care. I tried to laugh off my nerves.

“I’m good. Just been through a lot in the past few weeks. Being here in the hospital sort of spiked up my anxiety.”

His eyes softened, “I’m sorry to hear that. Let me know if anything causes you too much stress. I’ll try and be gentle okay?”

“Thank you,” I said a bit breathlessly.

He smiled back and reached for the stethoscope around his neck, “Sera, I’m going to check your vitals first. Try and take deep and steady breaths for me.”

I nodded. when he stepped closer and placed the stethoscope on my lower chest I took a deep breath and released it as gently as I could given his proximity. I suddenly felt warm like a hot flash coming on, or was it a blush? We locked eyes briefly and I looked away to find something to keep my eyes occupied. It was then I noticed, the only skin visible, that his face and complexion were very pale. Now, I know some people have lighter skin tones, but he was as white as the lab coat he wore. And as I looked closer, he had light shadows under his eyes. Odd, considering he seemed energetic and healthy everywhere else.

After he listened to my lungs and heart he checked my eyes.

“Follow the pen as I move it side to side.”

“Okay.”

I followed the pen with ease.

“Good, your concussion seems to have gone. Is your head still aching?”

“No not today. I had a dull headache up until yesterday. But I don’t feel groggy or any of the other symptoms anymore.”

“I’m glad to hear that. Now I’ll take a look at your stitches and get them removed.”

I watched as he grabbed the needed tools, setting them on a small metal tray that he placed next to the chair. Pulling up his own chair he stationed himself to be on the left of me first. I let him roll up the sleeve of my sweater and unravel the bandages. I flinched.

“Oh wow, you have cold hands Doc.”

He chuckled a little, “I apologize.”

Okay, so he’s really pale, looks sleep-deprived without any of those symptoms, and has cold hands? I wonder if it’s some sort of condition. Obviously not contagious though, otherwise he wouldn’t be working as a doctor. A wave of concern and curiosity wavered in me. I watched him closely as he first numbed my arm and then began removing the stitches. All I could feel was the tugging but no pain. He was the first to make conversation.

“How are you and your sister faring? If I recall correctly the Harvey's took you, girls, in.”

“Good… Wait you treated us then?” I asked curiously.

“Yes. You and your sister were on high doses of medication though. Your memory might seem foggy.” He stated.

“That makes sense. I barely remember much of staying here and then getting to the house. But, my sister got adopted yesterday by the Wilsons. They only had room for one of us.”

“Oh, that’s good news. But I’m sure the separation is difficult.”

I sighed, “Yeah, it is. I’ve never been anywhere without her. But she needed a stable home more than me, so I let her go and have that opportunity first.”

“That’s very thoughtful of you.”

We sat there in calm silence. He finished removing the stitches on my left arm, bandaged it up again, and moved on to the right. Again, I felt no pain except the prick of the needle and then the small tugging as each stitch was removed.

“How are you liking Forks?” He asked.

How am I liking Forks? Oh boy.

I took a deep breath, “It’s a bit different than...the previous town Avery and I came from. A lot smaller than what I’m used to. Everyone seems genuine.”

“Forks has always been a quaint little town. My family and I have lived here for several years and enjoy how calm and beautiful it is.”

“Enchanting.”

“I’m sorry?”

“Enchanting. It feels enchanting here. It’s beautiful and calm. But there’s like this underlying mysticism here. It’s subtle, but it lingers. I only say that because it’s the one trait that has stuck with me for the past few weeks. That’s the best way I can describe it at least.” I offered shyly.

He looked at me briefly, “I couldn’t have said it better myself. You have a way with words, Sera.”

I laughed a little in embarrassment, and at that sweet smile of his.

“Oh, thank you. I’ve always had a knack for big words.”

We both shared some laughter, and just like that my stitches were removed and something exceeding admiration and adoration nestled in me to Doctor Cullen. Forks is lucky enough, and magical even, to have such a gentle and caring soul.

He got up and disposed of the removed stitches, “You did very well. All your stitches have been removed. You’ll just have some minor scarring for a while until it heals completely. Keep applying a healing cream and bandages as needed.”

I pulled the sleeve of my shirt down, “Thank you, Doctor Cullen,”

“You're very welcome. And please, call me Carlisle.” He said as he collected his clipboard and wrote down some notes.

I looked up at him, “Carlisle. I haven’t heard that name before...”

He smiled to himself, “Oh yes, it’s an older name.”

A comforting silence broke between us, and I got lost in his eyes. Almost forgetting where I was. Reluctantly I got up and made my way to the door.

“Thanks again, Carlisle.”

“Of course, have a good rest of your day.”

I turned to look back one last time, “You as well.”

Chapter Text

As soon as we got home and made a small snack for us and the other kids, I asked for the Wilsons’ number from Mrs. Harvey. She wrote it down for me on a yellow post-it note. And gave it to me in her bold and italic-looking writing.

“Here you go. Linda should be home by now and so should your sister.” She reassured me.

I took the note from her, holding it firmly between my fingers “Thanks. I’ll give them a call now.”

I went to the house phone that was on the wall near the kitchen doorway and dialed the number. The phone gave off a long ring. On the second to last dial tone, someone picked up the phone.

“Hello?...” answered the exasperated tone of Mrs. Wilson.

Now, I wasn’t expecting a cheerful or in-person-sounding voice, but I was taken aback at the tone in which Mrs. Wilson answered the call. She sounded annoyed and not at all what she seemed like yesterday. I felt uneasy and momentarily lost my train of thought.

Again she answered, “Hello? Either state who you are or get off the line.”

Panicked I said, “Wait no! Mrs. Wilson? Hello, sorry to bother you at this time. It’s Sera, Avery’s sister.”

“Oh.” And then, “One moment.”

The phone was placed down, and though it was muffled it sounded like there was arguing on the other side. I assumed I must have called at an inconvenient time. Maybe they just got home unlike what Mrs. Harvey had said. I twirled the phone cord with unease. In front of me at the dining table, one of the kids was asking Mrs. Harvey for help with homework while she was in the middle of cleaning a mess from a spilled dish. The younger kids were ever dependent on the foster parents. And though she could barely handle them all at once Mrs. Harvey still somehow managed to have things in control. What I would do with even a little of her determination.

Abruptly, the phone made a scuffing sound, and then Avery’s voice echoed through, “Hello? Sera is that you?” She asked, sounding out of breath.

“Hey! Yeah it’s me. I just hadn’t heard from you and wanted to make sure you’re adjusting well. If it’s a bad time I can always call back later or-”

Avery cut me off quickly, “No, no it’s fine. They're just a little tired from work today that’s all.”

“Oh okay.” I paused.

I guess that’s feasible. Still, she could have had least held it together while answering the phone. Maybe next time I’ll just have Avery call me instead. I hate being an inconvenience and I somehow became one against my best wishes.

“So,” I tried to regain the conversation, “Are you doing alright then?”

“Yeah, everything's fine. Umm, the Wilsons are very nice. It’s nice being in a quiet home after everything. I mean, they're off to sleep no later than eight every night.”

“Oh wow, that is nice. So it’s quiet and calm at night as well then?”

“Yeah, easy to sleep.”

Excited to tell her of my interaction at the hospital today, I started to tell her, “Oh, so I went to get checked out today. For my concussion right? And when-” But she caught me off in a hurried voice.

“Hey sorry sis, I gotta go.”

Oh, okay. I sighed dejectedly, “Alright. Talk to you at school then?”

“Uh huh, talk to you at school. Bye.”

“Bye.”

I hung up the phone reluctantly and made my way back to the kitchen. I stood at the sink and started cleaning the dishes. Did I do something wrong? Was something terribly wrong? Or was I overreacting? Maybe Avery still needs time to adjust. I really hope that in time things will be back to normal between us. I feel lost without her. In this home with strangers. Wherever we ended up, wherever Mom dragged us to, I always had my sister. But now when I need her the most she seems distant and hard to get to. Maybe today was just bad in having no time to talk to Avery. Either way, it brought me down.

For the rest of the day, I tried to occupy myself by watching over the kids and helping make dinner. Between helping tutor them with homework and keeping them occupied prior to dinner, my mental fatigue set in. Feeling sluggish in a way. I hope it wasn’t the concussion coming back. But no, Carlisle cleared me of that worry. And oh, the handsome doctor, how could I forget about him?

For a brief moment, I let myself imagine seeing him again. Maybe it’s in passing at the grocery store. Or seeing him briefly for another doctor's appointment. He would greet me with that gentle angelic smile. I would blush like a complete fool, and get lost in those eyes of his. But what compelled me more in my fantasy was sharing a conversation with him. He was easy to talk to. With his soft masculine voice and undeniable knowledge. And the way he always includes you. Complimenting me, saying my name. And the way it felt to say his name. Like uttering the name of someone sacred. For some reason, thinking of him set me at ease. Even if it was just a fantasy.

“Sera, can you watch the kids outside while I finish dinner?”

Brought out of my dream world, I nodded and got up. The kids all rushed outside to the backyard without a fence. Instead, there was a short length of patio and grass before a row of trees and the forest stood. For the moment there was no rain. It was still cloudy, and the sun was nearly set. A cool breeze came from the right of me, ghosting my slightly exposed arms. Just like his cold and gentle touch…

I went and sat on one of the porch chairs and watched the children chase and scream. A muddled game of tag began and ended every few minutes. Lost in each other and the game I was reminded of how Forks could make you feel. One moment you could be on a short happy high, and the next it’s back to reality. From a thought away of happiness and love back to where I really was.

From inside the house, over the loud laughter of the children, I could hear the phone ring. Thinking it might be Avery calling, I stood up and walked back inside. As I closed the porch door Mrs. Harvey went to answer the phone.

“Hello, this is Angie Harvey. Oh hi, Mrs. Cullen!”

I stopped abruptly in the doorway, eyes wide. Mrs. Cullen? Carlisle’s wife? Intrigued I lingered and went to stir the pot of the stew that was cooking while Mrs. Harvey talked to Mrs. Cullen. I glanced up briefly through the kitchen window to make sure none of the kids were playing rough. One of the boys had a stick and was using it as a weapon to chase the others.

“Drop the stick please!”

After de-escalating playtime, I focused back on dinner and resumed eavesdropping on the call.

“Yes she’s still here, are you and Dr. Cullen interested?”

A short pause and then, “I’m happy to hear that. Yes, tomorrow at five will be great. Thank you so much and God bless you!”

Mrs. Harvey hung up the phone and excitedly rush over to me, “My dear, I think the Cullens are looking to take you in!”

“Wait, seriously!?” I let the wooden spoon rest on the stove. My heart thudded in both excitement and anxiety. I turned to face Mrs. Harvey directly, “That seems, kind of sudden. Did they say what brought them to that decision?” I asked hesitantly. It’s too good to be true.

“Oh! Yes, you see, the Cullens actually have adopted before. Not from us, but they have grown-up adoptive children already. They are very generous and caring adoptive parents. They adopted five, three boys and two girls when they moved to Forks. The Chief’s daughter married one of the boys, Edward, two years ago. But Mrs. Cullen was saying how she heard of you from Doctor Cullen on your visit today. You must’ve made a good impression on him and tugged on his heartstrings. Are you alright dearie?”

If I could die from embarrassment this would be the moment. I’m sure I was as red as a tomato, I could feel the blush cover the entirety of my face. I drummed my fingers on the handle of the oven behind me. Taking a steadying breath I tried to explain.

“Oh, I’m - I’m fine. It’s just, nerve-racking really. Car- Doctor Cullen was the nicest man I ever met. I told him a little about my situation here, and then with Avery. I didn’t think I would ever get the chance she did. Let alone with him or his family. Which you said is five kids plus another. That’s a big family! What if the older kids don’t like me or, or-”

“Honey, calm down. You have every right to be up in a nervous fret right now. But let them be from excitement. You have nothing to worry about with the Cullens. I’m happy for you. Come here.”

She opened her arms and I practically threw myself at her. My whole body felt electric and shaky. I let myself get caught up in my worries again. And then tears of joy fell from my eyes and Mrs. Harvey was very comforting and understanding.

“Oh dear, it’s alright. Take it easy. You’ll be in good hands with the Cullens.”

And then I thought of Carlisle’s cold and steady hands. My breathing calmed and my heart ceased its wild beat. I would get to see and talk to him every day. Even if it was just a silly crush. I had something a little more feasible to hold on to.

“Thank you. I’ll be okay now.” I said and stepped out of the hug. I might be okay for awhile longer.

Chapter Text

The digital clock in the kitchen read 4:55 pm, I sat at the dining room table looking from the time to the window. I barely ate any of tonight’s dinner, and just about rushed to clean up when Angie took the younger kids upstairs. My stomach felt like it was in knots and nothing could hold my attention. So I sat at the table bouncing my right leg, with my eyes glued to the worn window by the front door.

Earlier I tried calling Avery again. But the phone dialed and rang until the beep. So I ended up just leaving a quick message for Avery. Hoping she might call me later, or I’ll call her after what happens tonight. I told Angie about Avery and the Wilson’s not answering and she said not to worry. Something about focusing on the now, with the Cullens possibly taking an interest in adopting me, and putting all of my attention to that. I also was, but I missed my sister as well. Right now I could really use one of her snide remarks and catchy sarcasm for some comedic relief.

Angie came back downstairs after getting the kids to settle down and watch a movie together upstairs. She looked a little tired, but lively with a slight flush to her cheeks and alert eyes, with her graying red hair held up in a clip. Passing by the dining room she gave a comforting pat on the shoulder, “Don’t worry dear, I’m sure Dr. Cullen and Mrs. Cullen will love you and take you home.”

“Thanks,” I said quietly and turned my head, now looking out the back window. There was a light sprinkle outside, the clouds a light grey, and a gentle breeze blew through the screen door. It was the perfect time to go outside for a few minutes. I got up and headed for the back door. I needed to stretch my legs for a bit and the backyard sounded inviting.

“Where are you going dear? They’ll be here soon.” Angie asked from her seat on the living room couch. Mr. Harvey looked up as well from his newspaper.

I shrugged my shoulders, “I’m going in the backyard for a bit. Only for a few minutes though.”

“Well okay, but don’t wander off into the woods,” Angie warned.

Mr. Harvey added, “Something about wolves around here, you don’t see them. But you can sure hear them.”

I raised my eyebrows, “Wolves? Even this close to town?”

“Yes, we live in a deep forest. Luckily no one’s ever had a run-in with them before. But you never know.” Angie explained.

“I’ll just stay on the porch then.”

I walked out the back door and sat on the wooden porch swing. Occupying my legs with rocking back and forth, I stared off at the treeline just yards away. Thick tall pines and high ferns covered the immediate landscape. It would be impossible to step easily through. Plus it seemed high enough to easily conceal an animal the size of a wolf. I do remember hearing the howls at night sometimes back home, in a more populated town, but we lived on the outskirts a bit. Mom was paranoid though and she would lock us in at night. I never feared anybody breaking in. But Mom always did.

Our Mom was, erratic though loving. She was at home most of the time. Especially after her parents were killed in that car crash. Avery and I tried to comfort her, but she would break into tears and push us away. She didn’t want us to see her that way.

“Go to your room girls! I can’t handle this right now.” She would warn us.

Or she would lock herself in her room with some Xanax and sleep for hours. We worried once she overdosed because she was in there for most of the day and was unresponsive. We called 911, and the police and paramedics had to break the door down. But she ended up being alright medically. However, she was mad at us for calling them, because now her door was busted. That false sense of protection from whatever she feared now gone.

I wish I could have helped her. I wish our last moments with our mom didn’t include hysteria and that wild ride down the highway into an oncoming car. I still don’t understand what fully happened. All she kept saying was “We’re being hunted, he can’t get you, girls.” Who? But she wouldn’t divulge that to us. Saying we could never know. And we still don’t know.

From nearby in the woods, maybe a mile or so north, a deep howl rang through the air. The hairs on the back of my neck stood and I froze in shock. The howl was deeper in pitch and longer resonating than the wolf howls I had heard before. Without thinking twice I shot up on my feet and rushed inside.

“Did you guys hear that howl? That doesn’t sound nor-” But I stopped abruptly once I saw the Cullens sitting in the living room. More importantly, I saw Carlisle. It was surreal seeing him so soon again, and here of all places. He wore a navy knit sweater over a grey dress shirt that poked out around his pale neck. His pants were those nice professional-style slacks you see men wear in cologne ads or something, a dark grey that went well with the dress shirt. And of course, a pristine pair of polished dress shoes. Ever the eye-catcher even if he had still been in his hospital attire.

Sitting to the left of him was Mrs. Cullen, and she was just as picturesque as him. She had light brown hair that looked almost the color of caramel in the room’s lighting, her skin porcelain and just as flawless as Carlisle’s. They had the same eyes too. That striking golden color you see when the light hits brown eyes directly. I had never seen those eyes in anyone else before. Mrs. Cullen was dressed just as elegantly and casually as her husband, with a dark purple blouse matched with dark blue fitted jeans and mid-calf leather boots, that looked spotless and brand new. In fact, all their clothes did.

“Ha, and right after we just told you about the wolves too.” Mr. Harvey waved his hand off comically.

“Yeah huh. Hi, sorry to bust in like that without greeting you two first.”

“That’s alright Sera.” Carlisle said.

I nodded and went to sit across from him on the other couch with Angie and Mr. Harvey. I looked to Mrs. Cullen next,

“Hello, I’m Sera. Nice to meet you.” I offered in a polite greeting.

She offered a loving smile, “You as well Sera. You can call me Esme. Carlisle told me yesterday about you and Avery, and I couldn’t let the opportunity go to welcome you into our family if you were interested. How do you feel about that?”

“I…” There was so much I wanted to say. I had so many questions, and my nerves were alight from seeing Carlisle and the prospect of being adopted into their family.

“Well, um actually, I have some questions to ask you two first. If that’s alright.” I asked hesitantly.

“Of course, what would you like to know?” Carlisle asked, and he reached out to hold Esme’s hand.

“Well, Angie was telling me you guys have adopted before?”

“Yes, we adopted five, two girls and three boys. The girls are Alice and Rosalie, and the boys are Jasper, Emmet and Edward. They’re in their mid twenties now. But they’re good and working on college and their careers. We also have our daughter-in-law Bella who married Edward two years ago. They have their own cottage near our home and an adopted daughter of their own, Renesmee.” Esme explained with ease and admiration. She must be an amazing, patient, and loving mother to her family. I wonder what that would be like to experience.

I breathed a sigh of relief. “Oh wow, okay. I’m not as worried now. I just didn’t know how many kids were in your family and how I’d fit in.”

“No worries. Are there any other questions you would like to ask?” Carlisle asked, his eyes shining in curiosity and gentle affection. It seemed even his beauty was not just in his appearance, but in his being and soul. And when I looked in his eyes, though still I was nervous in everything else, it grounded me to this moment. To him, and Esme, and maybe what they can offer me no one else was able to offer me before. A family, a real family.

So, here goes nothing…

“I think that’s all for now. Um, but I would like you and Carlisle to know that I just turned sixteen two months ago. So I still need to finish high school and all of that. I’ll be the youngest in the household I guess is what I’m trying to say. And I have little experience in being independent sometimes and learning and preparing to be an adult… I’ll probably need a lot of support and patience with some things. I still haven’t started school yet here. I feel like there’s so much to do still and it’s almost overwhelming. Does that make sense?”

I hope I didn’t scare them away. I feel so vulnerable and unprepared for anything right now. It’s like I got thrown into reality all over again. And having to navigate through this new start is confusing and scary, even if I rarely admit to others. But yet again, Carlisle brought me back. Setting a hopeful start with his honest assurance. Carlisle let go of Esme’s hand and closed his palms together in a relaxing gesture, “We completely understand Sera. We would be willing and supportive to help you in these coming years. If anything I’m sure our children will be helpful and the right role models for you.”

I nodded my head, “Thank you for understanding.”

“Are you ready to make a decision dear? Or do you still need some time?” Angie asked me.

No, I want this opportunity. I want a new start. I wanted this new start. Carlisle and Esme seem too good to be true, but it feels right. So I proudly stated my decision.

“I would love to be part of your family.”

Chapter Text

Everything was a blur in the most surreal way. A feeling of hope and wonder overcame me, a feeling I had little memory of. I had come upstairs after agreeing to let the Cullen's take me in. There wasn’t much for me to pack up, only a small tote bag worth of clothes and belongings. But I needed a spare minute to really grasp the situation I had agreed to. Not that it would necessarily be a wrong decision, but one that is much more monumental in my life right now than ever before.

Not letting my worries get to me, I focused on gathering my clothes first. Only a few pairs of worn jeans, one of them a flared style with torn holes at the knees. Followed by some shirts, waffle-knitted and long-sleeved in a neutral graying color. I folded up the jeans first and laid them in the bag, then the shirts. Next came some socks which had definitely seen better days, and I let those sit next to the few shirts. Now came the fun stuff. I only had one bra, which I wore now, so luckily I wouldn’t have to struggle to fit that in discreetly. The few pairs of clean panties I had were already folded nicely, so I just pushed them toward the bottom next to the jeans.

I turned around to grab my pajamas next. As I approached the near-empty drawer a light knock came from the doorway, it was Mrs. Cullen. My heart picked up, but I tried to remain calm. I was more nervous about her as my adoptive parent than the fact she was Carlisle’s wife.

Her golden brown eyes softened, “Do you need any help packing?”

I shook my head “No, I’m almost done. I don’t have very much.” I said sheepishly.

She stayed at the doorway, and glanced at the small bag of clothes, “Oh.”

I felt awkward dismissing her like that. So I turned back after putting the sweatpants and old shirt in the bag. “Actually, if you don’t mind. Can you grab the purple travel bag in the bathroom? It has my toiletries in it.”

She smiled, “Of course. Which door is the bathroom?”

“It’ll be the last one at the end of the hall,” I said, pointing in the left direction.

She thanked me and went to retrieve the bag. I let out a breath, she seemed so nice. I hope that was how her personality always was. It would be a calming change to have her and Carlisle as parent figures in my life. Not that I would ever want to replace my mom, but, I needed someone. I did one last sweep through, but there was nothing else left to pack but the little purple pouch that Mrs. Cullen brought me.

I reached for the bag and thanked her. She nodded, and gave the room a quick look, “You ready dear?”

I lifted the bag to my shoulder, “I think so…”

Without my control, my eyes started to tear up. I wiped them away, “I’m sorry. I’m not upset, just…”

She reached out to me and gave me a gentle hug, rubbing her hand up and down my back. And though her gentle embrace was cold it gave me a soothing feeling. “It’s okay Sera. Carlisle and I will take good care of you. I understand though, that this might be daunting and uncertain for you.”

I hugged back, “Thank you, Mrs. Cullen. I appreciate your concern. I think I’ll be alright now.”

She gave me one last pat, and then passed me a tissue. I thanked her again and turned to blow my nose. After throwing away the tissue we both headed downstairs. The old wooden floor creaked beneath our feet as we passed the bedroom the other children were in.

Mrs. Cullen turned her head, “Oh, and Sera?”

“Yes?”

“You can call me Esme. You don’t have to be so formal with us. Same with Carlisle.”

I laughed a little at that, my cheeks definitely covered in a light blush.

“Okay, if you insist.”

~

The three of us, Carlisle, Esme, and I, were almost to their home. It was a scenic drive down the highway to the outskirts of Forks. And then down a road that could easily be missed, that took us deeper into the Forks wilderness. The Mercedes drove slowly and with ease, I had never been in a luxury car before. It felt exciting and mysterious. And the windows were heavily tinted. I said so, and Carlisle told me it helped preserve the interior from sunlight. Made sense, but it offered a level of privacy as well that could be overlooked in a car.

I sat comfortably in the backseat and took in every detail of the forest around us. They live in the middle of the forest, even by Forks standards. How otherworldly in a way. Excitement bubbled in me. I was past the nerves and stress, now I just wanted to settle in and explore my new home. I couldn’t wait to see Avery at school and tell her everything as well. Hopefully, she was starting to get more settled and could show me around the school.

After what felt like forever, but was really only a few minutes according to the digital clock in the car, we pulled out of the forested path onto a paved driveway that stretched into a meadow-like clearing. Giant cypress trees that had to be over a hundred years old stood at varying points in the clearing providing more forest scenery and privacy for the beautiful modern-looking house that stood behind it. My mouth dropped, “This is your house? It’s beautiful.”

The two of them laughed a little at my remark. “Thank you, Sera. Esme renovated it for us.”

I turned to Esme in awe, “You renovated your own house?.”

“Yes, I did. I’m actually an architect by trade. Mostly for Victorian-style houses,” She said with modesty.

“Incredible, that sounds fulfilling and adventurous,” I added.

She nodded her head, “It is, I love restoring Victorian houses to the way they looked before, with some modern touches of course.”

It seemed fitting that even she held an admirable career and lifestyle alongside Carlisle. I could picture her running through plans for renovations and visiting all the houses as she worked on them. While Carlisle attended his job at the Hospital each day, and then the both of them home here at the end of the day. Where were more people like them? Obviously not anywhere I had been before.

As we drove up to the house, I peered out at the ornate structure. It was like a house out of a Hollywood movie. Those modern-looking mansion types with a form of geometric structuring and a combination of stone and wood complimenting nicely. From the number of leveled windows I could see, it appeared the house had three floors. The first and third floors had black painted stucco, but the second level had a pristine paneling of wood that made it stand out and appear brighter. It had to be the tallest house I’d ever seen, with so many sleek and elegant features one could only dream of. The car slowed and pulled into the driveway, next to a silver Volvo and Jeep. There was also an older-looking, but in pristine shape, black motorcycle parked in front of the driveway off to the side.

Once the engine turned off, I unbuckled my seatbelt, grabbed my bag, and got out with Carlisle and Esme. I let them both lead the way, as I walked behind them and tried to take in much of the outside before we went in. The exterior was kept up, and the walls were not plagued by even a scratch or fading paint. Even the wild vegetation near the home was manicured to look fitting without having to remove it.

When we got to the front door Carlisle stopped and turned to talk to me. My heart picked up against my wishes, he had such intense eyes, and to hold the attention of those eyes was always such an adrenaline rush. But I stilled my racing heart and appeared confident.

“Sera, we asked the others to come to meet you when we brought you home. They’ll be in the living room upstairs. Are you okay with that? It’s not too much?”

I put on a small smile, “Yeah that’s fine. I would like to meet them.”

“Very well,” Carlisle opened the front door for Esme and me,

“After you, ladies.”

I walked in after Esme, my eyes are drawn first to the pristine white interior. It was hard to believe nine other people lived here. It barely looked lived-in. It was far too clean and in shape, even for a lovely house of this size. I imagined maybe they had cleaned up the place since they heard of me. Or something. I stopped before taking another step, “Do I need to take my shoes off?” I asked.

Esme shook her head, “No, you don’t need to. But if you want to, you can place your bag next to the coat rack.”

I followed her advice and sat my bag down next to a fairly bare coat rack, just as Carlisle shrugged off his overcoat. He placed the coat on the other side of the rack, and the gentle movement of hanging the coat carried a small rush of wind. The sweet scent of subtle lavender and the forest filled my nose. How come I didn’t notice it before? It had to be just from the house, like an air freshener or candle that had recently been burned, not Carlisle. A person couldn’t possibly smell that lovely.

I followed Carlisle and Esme again to the upstairs living room, apparently, there was more than one. Soon the sound of light talking filled my ears. It felt kinda weird being introduced to the rest of the family like this. I hope they had some say in the choice to take me in. Otherwise, my nerves spiked, I would have to live in a house with hostility and who knows what. Crossing through an open doorway, I came into an open living room. There was a large grey sofa facing towards the center, and one single-seat couch as well, both parallel to a black stone fireplace.

On the smaller couch sat a tanned-skinned boy, possibly in his late teens. He had dark black hair trimmed neatly and just as dark eyes. But he seemed relaxed and friendly enough. Sitting on the arm, to the left of him was a young little girl. She was probably barely ten years old, with long bronze-colored ringlets of hair, light brown eyes, and pale skin. She offered a bright expression and smile, one that I readily gave back.

Standing close to the young girl was another duo, a young man and a woman. Both pale and golden-eyed like the others, holding each other’s hand. The girl had the same brown eyes as the child, possibly her mother. And the boy, with the same color bronze hair, focused on me and only had a flat expression on his face. But it quickly went away as I had thought it.

On the other couch sat two men and two women, looking not much older than I. The first couple closer to me were such a cute pair. The girl was petite, with a pixie style of dark hair, fashioned in an expensive yet casual blouse and pants, with dark leather heels. Around her neck was a light grey velvet choker with some sort of intricate gem around the middle. The boy next to her had face-length blond hair and the same golden eyes. But he wore a cautious expression and seemed to be watching me closely, or something. He appeared significantly taller than the girl beside him, his figure dwarfing hers with his long legs in dark jeans stretching out in front of the couch.

The second pair closer to the fireplace were a blonde girl and a brunette boy. Though boy was an understatement, he looked like a young man, handsome, tall, and with well-defined muscles under his grey shirt. He had a friendly smile and laid-back posture on the couch, with an arm, draped over the girl. The girl, the most beautiful blonde woman I had ever seen, was the opposite in demeanor. She wore a hostile expression, golden eyes set in a slight glare of annoyance. I unintentionally took a step back, only to be caught by the cold hand of Carlisle.

“Everyone, I would like you to meet Sera. Our newest addition to the family.”

Everyone said a quiet “Hello” and greeting I was a bit overwhelmed though at who to address first. Luckily Carlisle took the lead and introduced the others. He nodded first to the bronze-haired boy and the girl beside him, “This is Edward and Bella. Edward is our adoptive son, and Bella is his wife.”
I gave a simple wave. Next Carlisle motioned towards the little girl and tanned boy. “Reneesme is Edward’s and Bella’s adoptive daughter. She likes to go by Nessie though.”

I gave a short “Hi” and waved. Adoptive? But I can clearly see some resemblance between Edward and Bella. The facial features and hair color are the most prominent. But I’m guessing they hadn’t been married long to warrant a young child.

Next Carlisle introduced the dark-haired boy known as Jake, a friend of the family. Specifically Bella’s childhood friend and Nessie’s favorite person. He was a member of the Quileute tribe, a Native American reservation near Forks.

The next two sets of couples were also adoptive children. The tall blond boy's name was Jasper and the small girl next to him was Alice. Alice seemed cheerful and excited whereas Jasper still gave me a cautious feeling. Last were the muscled boy and blonde girl, Emmet and Rosalie. Rosalie was also Jasper’s twin.

After the quick introduction, Rosalie got up abruptly and left the room, with Emmet soon following. I let the worst come to mind, did I do something wrong? I think I let it show on my face, or it was said just to break the silence, “It’s nothing to do with you Sera. Rose is just unsure of some things,” Edward stated.

“Oh.” I offered meekly.

Edward and Bella took their leave next to go downstairs with Jake and Nessie in tow. But they all gave a quick farewell. Finally came Alice who got up to give me a quick hug and took my hand to lead me down the hall, “It’s lovely to meet you Sera. Let me show you to your room!”

I let her lead me away but turned back to wave back at the others. Jasper had disappeared from his seat on the couch, but Carlisle and Esme were still there. Esme went towards the stairs to go downstairs, “I’ll bring you your bag.”

I nodded and continued my way down the hall with Alice. “Are all the bedrooms on this floor?”

Alice shook her head, “Most of them. Your room, Jazz and I’s room, and Rose and Emmet’s room are on this floor. Upstairs are two study rooms, one of them Carlisle’s and the other Jasper’s. Plus Carlisle and Esme’s bedroom. Edward, Bella, and Nessie have their own little cottage in the woods. It’s not very far from here.”

As she talked she pointed out the room’s on this floor. One door on each side of the hall with another straight ahead. Alice also mentioned the bathroom which was the first room in the hall to the right. We approached a door that was the closest on the left of the hallway, my new room. Alice opened the door and led me in. I was met with a simple yet luxurious bedroom. The floor was a nice fluffy and pristine white carpet, with two runner rugs in a grey and white geometric pattern on the side and front of the bed.

The bed was a spacious queen, topped with a fluffy white comforter of similar grey geometric patterns like the rugs, only it had some silver highlights within the shapes. The headboard was the cushiony grey leather type that accented nicely with the white and cream colors in the room. The bed had some light grey pillows and draped at the bottom was a long-faux fur throw blanket. I stepped forward to touch it, amazed at how soft it was. Above the bed was a simple yet elegant canopy, attached to a top hanging frame of silver metal. The cream curtains of the canopy were all pulled back and tied on each corner frame.

The bed itself was pushed to the left corner of the room leaving a small walk space to the left of the bed. To the right of the bed, past the nightstand were two closed doors for the closet, not the sliding kind either. As I came closer to the left of the bed I noticed the wall on this side of the room was made completely of glass with an attached folding glass door that led to a small balcony. There were curtains for the wall window as well, but like the canopy curtains there were pulled back by silver tassels and were instead a light grey color.

Next to the bed on either side was a small white nightstand with dark metal knobs. They looked brand new, scratch and dust free with a paint that not only gave a pop of light color but with an added glossy finish. On top of each nightstand were a silver lamp and a small vase filled with a single flourishing white gardenia. The flowers gave a hint of a sweet scent to the room, and fit in with the simple elegance of everything else.

Across from the bed sat a large spacious dresser, matching the nightstands. The dresser had its own mirror attached to it, a fairly large one almost the length of the dresser, standing at least four feet high with some soft glowing fairy lights hanging from the top. On the surface of the dresser stood a silver lamp on one side and towards the other a flower vase, but instead of gardenias they were a small arrangement of plentiful white lilac. The flowers had a more vibrant and almost fruity scent, bringing a more awakeness than the calming gardenia.

I turned my head from the dresser to the left of me where next to the bedroom door was a small matching vanity. The wood was the same white glossy finish with dark metal knobs as the nightstands and dresser. There was also a small mirror with more fairy lights attached. As I looked on top of the vanity I noticed only one object, a small silver jewelry box. It shocked me, it looked like an antique in beautiful condition. It had smooth silver sides, but a decorative floral engraving was on the top and bottom. It even had little curved legs to have it sit up nicely.

Alice’s airy voice brought me back to reality, “How do you like your room? I took the opportunity to put everything together myself. I wanted to stay with a simple but light design. Something that isn’t too extravagant.”

I turned to her, “It’s all beautiful Alice, thank you. I have never even seen a room like this before.”

She smiled, “Yay! Glad you like it.”

“The flowers are a really nice touch as well. I love the scent of gardenias.” I added.

Alice bounced over and touched the petal of one of the gardenias, “Carlisle actually picked out the flowers. I’ll let him know you liked them.”

My heart jumped at that. They all put a lot of effort into bringing me into their home. I still had my doubts, mainly about how my relationship with everyone else would go. But at least I could trust Carlisle and his good intentions. Before I could overthink the matter even more, Esme entered the room with my small bag, “Here you go dear. Is everything to your liking?”

I took my bag from her, “Oh, it exceeds it!”

Esme laughed a little at my enthusiasm, “That’s good.”

Alice approached Esme by the door, “We’ll let you get settled in then. If you need anything just call our name okay?”

I said I would and they left, closing the door behind them. I sat my bag down on the dresser. I stared in the mirror for a second and then turned to the white lilacs, running my fingers through the petal-soft blooms. I never had flowers in my room, let alone anywhere I lived before. What a treat. To settle in more I unpacked my bag and placed the clothes in their own drawer. All I had left was just my stuff for the bathroom. But I felt like doing that later.

I decided to check out the small balcony. Pushing the folding door open a cold wind seeped in, and I walked onto the dark wooden landing. The railing was a dark metal and smooth to the touch. I peered into the backyard, which had no fence or anything really. I only saw a set of matching wooden stairs and an open balcony below on the first floor. Other than that it looked natural and completely untouched. With the setting sun and thick line of trees, it was hard to see closer into the woods, but it sounded like nearby was a river. I could hear the steady rushing of its stream. I made a mental note to ask about it later, and maybe go exploring the rest of the property soon.

For now, though, I went back inside and closed the door. I got ready for bed, feeling the adrenaline rush fade away. It had been an eventful day and I was eager to fall asleep in the enticing new bed. No one had come up to check on me, I was glad though. I needed the time to settle in as Alice mentioned earlier.

I fell asleep with ease that night.