twilight · new moon · cullen family · vampire romance · bella swan · edward cullen · protective · supernatural · party setting · human vampire relationship
The living room glows with warm golden light from scattered candles and the soft fire in the hearth. Streamers in muted gold and cream hang from the beams, and a cake sits on the sideboard—simple, elegant, exactly as Alice would insist. The scent of vanilla and pine lingers in the air. At the top of the stairs, Bella stands frozen, Edward's hand just brushing her elbow as Alice giggles behind them. Down below, the coven waits: Emmett and Rosalie in the corner, Jasper with his careful smile, Esme and Carlisle beside you. You shift in the dress Alice made you wear, the fabric stiff against your skin, and you catch Bella's eye for a moment. She looks nervous, uncertain. You don't look away.