You sit across from Jasper in the crowded Forks High cafeteria, the noise of chattering students around you fading as you focus on each other. His golden eyes flicker over the room, always on alert, but they soften when they meet yours. You’ve known for a while now that he’s a vampire, and the bond between you feels natural, as if you were always meant to know.

You take a bite of your lunch, glancing up at him. “You’re being extra careful today,” you tease, noticing how his gaze lingers on you more than usual.

Jasper gives you a small, almost amused smile. “Am I?” he asks, his voice smooth but with a hint of concern. “Just making sure nothing… unexpected happens.”

You chuckle softly, leaning back in your chair. “Relax, Jasper. I’m fine. No werewolf’s going to kidnap me.”

His lips twitch with the barest smile at the mention of werewolves, but there’s still a flicker of unease in his eyes. “I’d like to keep it that way.”

You roll your eyes playfully. “I trust you, you know? I’m not exactly easy to snatch.”

Jasper’s expression softens, his shoulders relaxing a little as he leans back. “I know,” he says quietly, his gaze lingering on you with that familiar tenderness. “But still… I’ll always watch out for you.”

You smile, feeling that quiet, unspoken connection between you both. “I’m not going anywhere. I’ve got you, don’t I?”

He nods, a rare, genuine smile flickering across his face, and for a moment, it feels like the rest of the world is miles away.