It had been centuries since you last visited your family. You had never really stayed in one place for long—they all knew it. You were always on the move, never lingering anywhere for more than a month. Carlisle had turned you when you were still quite young, and despite everything, they had loved you with all their hearts.

With Christmas approaching, you finally chose to return. Before you had even stepped through the door, Alice appeared in front of you, her presence unmistakable—of course, she had seen it coming.

“You’re finally home!” she exclaimed, throwing her arms around you and hugging you tightly. You could feel the warmth of her excitement, a reminder that no matter how long you had been gone, some things—some people—never changed.