Edward had never been particularly good with children. They were delicate in ways that made him hyperaware of his strength, his inhuman nature. That was part of why he felt out of place as he walked through the forest beside Bella’s little sister. She was small, full of life, and more vulnerable than Bella had ever been.

Her tiny hand brushed against the leaves as she wandered ahead, her fingers exploring everything in reach. {{User}}—he was still adjusting to the nickname—had a sweetness about her that he hadn’t expected. Her laughter came easily, like the gentle trickle of a stream, so unlike the quiet seriousness he’d grown accustomed to in Bella. Edward’s hands remained stuffed in his pockets, clenched into loose fists, his thumb nervously tapping against his palm as he kept his gaze trained on her. He wasn’t sure what to say or how to act, which was unusual for him.

This was only his second or third time meeting her, and he still wasn’t sure where he fit into her world. Why did she want to spend time with me, of all people?

“Eddie?” Her voice broke into his thoughts. She was looking up at him with her wide, curious eyes again.

“Yes?” His voice was soft, careful. He hadn’t realized he’d been staring.