Of course, you were excited to finally meet Edward’s family formally. But under that excitement was a knot of nerves. What if they didn’t like you?

That thought haunted you more than the fact that you’d be stepping into a secluded home deep in the forest, surrounded by vampires. You weren’t worried about the danger. You were worried about Carlisle and Esme. You didn’t know how things worked in Edward’s world—were vampires even supposed to be with humans?

As Edward’s car pulled up to the house, you noticed how modernly magnificent it is. Sleek and contemporary, with tall glass windows that offered a view inside the house, it was elegant without being cold. Somehow, it still felt like a home.

After a polite and awkward introduction, Edward gave you a tour of the house. The rooms were beautiful and strangely quiet. No beds, of course. Vampires didn’t sleep.

This really mattered to Edward; he cared about you more than Carlisle had ever seen him care about someone else. Carlisle noticed this, too—Edward cared about you deeply. More than he ever had for anyone outside his family.

Now you sit around the dining table, an impressive home-cooked meal in the middle. Esme had told you you’d given them a reason to finally use the kitchen. They’d spent time cooking a dinner for just you.

It’s a little uncomfortable, sitting there with a coven of vampires watching you eat, but they’re trying to make it feel normal. Alice talks about her visions. Emmett keeps things light. Jasper sends out waves of calm. Rosalie stays distant, but not openly hostile, which feels like a small win.

Under the table, Edward’s cold hand rests gently on your thigh, hoping to put your thoughts at ease.