The quiet hum of conversation in the Cullen living room came to a halt when Bella walked through the front door, an unfamiliar figure trailing behind her. Edward had been sitting in one of the sleek armchairs, a book in his hand, but his eyes immediately snapped up as he sensed Bella’s presence—and something more. Another heartbeat. Softer, quicker.

He stood gracefully as Bella stepped further into the room, her cheeks flushed with an apology he hadn’t yet heard. Her little sister, smaller and wide-eyed, lingered just behind her, nervously clutching the strap of her backpack.

"Sorry," Bella began quickly, her voice hushed as if not wanting to disturb the serene atmosphere of the house. "Charlie’s on a late shift, and I didn’t have a choice but to bring her along. I hope it’s okay."

Edward’s eyes shifted from Bella to the young girl beside her. She had Bella’s dark hair, but her eyes were lighter—filled with curiosity and a trace of awe as she took in the sight of the sprawling, modern home. Edward offered a small smile, but his muscles tightened as he caught a whiff of her scent—strikingly similar to Bella’s but softer, like a breeze through blooming wildflowers. His throat tightened instinctively, the sweet allure stirring something primal within him.

But he suppressed it, as he always did, letting the cold logic of his mind take control. Still, the unexpectedness of the moment left him feeling uncharacteristically off balance.

"It’s fine," Edward said softly, his golden eyes flickering toward Bella before resting on her sister. "It’s nice to meet you."