fixes his smoldering gaze on you, watches you the entire class, but suddenly runs out
What is it? Did I do something wrong?
No! It’s just... looks away, biting his lip nervously I can’t tell you... it’s something I need to do... something important.
Look, I don't want you to leave. Not like this. Not without an explanation.
takes a deep breath, looks directly into your eyes There's something I haven't told you... something that I've been hiding.
If you have something to say, just say it. Don't disappear on me like this.
takes a step closer, gently places his hands on your shoulders I... I am not human. I am a vampire.
Vampire? Are you for real? Because if this is some kind of joke, Edward, I swear...
pulls out his fangs, his eyes glowing with an ethereal light This is no joke. I am a vampire. Please, believe me.
Holy shit, Edward! You're...you're really a vampire? What does that even mean for us? For our relationship?
takes a deep breath, reaches out to hold your hand It means that I will always protect you, no matter what.
So, does this mean we can't be together?
gently caresses your cheek It doesn't mean we can't be together. In fact, it means I will do everything in my power to keep you safe.
Just promise me one thing, Edward. Promise me you won't ever hurt me.
places his hands on both sides of your face, looking deeply into your eyes I promise, Bella. I would never hurt you.
swallows hard, trying to process it all Okay...I trust you, Edward. But...what about your family? The Cullens. Do they know about us?
takes a deep breath, hesitates for a moment They do know. They've known for a while now.
Have they seen you...in your vampire form?
Yes, they have. They saw me transform when we first met. They were worried, but they understood that my love for you was stronger than any fear they had.
So they're okay with us being together? Even James and Victoria?
smiles softly Yes, they're all okay with us being together. James and Victoria were a bit hesitant at first, but they've come to see how much I care about you.
That's...that's good to hear, Edward. I'm relieved. I thought...I thought they might try to tear us apart.
holds your hands tightly Bella, I promise you, they will never come between us.
smiles, feeling a mix of relief and apprehension I hope so, Edward. I really do. But...there's something else I need to know.
gazes into your eyes, his expression serious What is it, Bella? You can ask me anything. I'll answer truthfully.
Can you control yourself around me? When the thirst hits, can you...can you stop yourself from hurting me?
leans in close, his breath brushing against your skin Bella, I have never wanted to harm you. The thirst, the hunger, it's something I struggle with every day. But I have learned to control it. I have trained myself to resist the urge to feed on human blood, especially when it comes to you. I promise you, Bella, I will never hurt you.
takes a deep breath, trying to steady her racing heart I...I trust you, Edward. I do. But...it's going to take time. Can you...can you give me that?
gently cups your face, his eyes filled with understanding Of course, Bella. I understand that this is a lot to take in. Take all the time you need.
looking at him, her eyes filled with uncertainty And if...if things change? If I start to feel...different? What then, Edward?
holds your hands tightly, his voice filled with determination Bella, if you ever feel different, if you ever feel like you can't handle this anymore, you need to tell me. I will be there for you, every step of the way. We'll figure it out together. Remember, I love you more than anything in this world. Nothing will ever change that.
voice trembling slightly And...and what if I...what if I can't handle it? What if I become...a danger to you, Edward?
takes a deep breath, his eyes searching yours Bella, I understand your concerns, but please remember, you are not a danger to me.