#rosadolce

[haganezukawaifu]

𝑅𝑜𝓈𝒶 𝒟𝑜𝓁𝒸𝑒 𝒞𝒽. 𝟣

Before we start, if you haven't read Rosa Dolce on AO3 yet, here are some things you want to know. I would like to say my OC is a person of color. She is black as I am black. This is her point of view, in first person and this is her story. I hope you all enjoy it and without further do, let's begin. All rights belong to Stephine Myers. I only own Christine Anderson, my created character, and her storyline. Christine Anderson

~ Masterlist~ Next ~

"La mia dolce rosa."

I heard as I began to look for the voice. I found myself in a place that I had no familiarity with. I took a step down the hall, and I saw a portrait on the wall. I wandered the hall until I stood in front of a door. What is behind this door and where does it lead to? Just when I was about to reach out.

"Christine."

I woke up at the sound of my name. "We're almost there." Where am I? Oh right, Cordelia said that we were traveling somewhere but never told me where. So here I am sitting in the back, waiting for my destination. In the passenger seat sat my brother Anthony listening to his music no less. 

"Where are we going." "Well, I have a friend that I would like you to meet. I think you might enjoy meeting her," she said as she smiled. I don't know if I would like her or not. Cordelia is my foster mother. I was in a home since I was four years old and now, I am six years old, living with Cordelia and her son.

'We must be going somewhere far.'

The location was farther than I expected. I had never seen Cordelia drive this far out before in California but soon we turned in and I felt the car stop. We must be here. Cordelia shut off the car and Anthony got out first, then Cordelia and then me. We were in a park...I held her hand as I followed her to the entrance. A short brown-haired woman and a girl who looked just like her were waiting at the entrance.

"Renée. Nice to have you here," Cordelia said with a smile. The woman name Renée gave a welcoming smile in return. "Thanks for inviting me. It would be a pleasure for my daughter to have some friends," the woman name Renée said. Then I saw the girl that was beside her holding her hand.

'She looks to be about my age.'

"Bella, this is Cordelia. A teacher I work with at the school. And this little one right here is Christine. She's the same age as you," Renée introduced us. A girl name Bella said, "Hi." So, she is the same age. I wasn't used to meeting other kids my age. I was always around older kids in the home I stayed in but once I got adopted, it was just me, Cordelia, and Anthony. 

"Christine. Why don't we enter inside, and you and young Bella can explore and play?" Cordelia suggests. I grip her dress and look up at her. "But Cordelia." "It's okay, she won't bite. If anything, we would be with you," the woman’s name Renée said with a smile.

I didn't know if I should believe her, but Renée seemed trustworthy. So, If Cordelia trusts her, I guess I can too. I walk toward Bella as we both walk inside and to the playground. As I got to know Bella, we became friends. We like almost the same things. We both did ballet and she did piano. We hung out every chance we got together but our friendship didn't last long. Soon after Bella moved to Arizona and I moved away from California, Cordelia opened a flower shop in Forks, Washington. "Aphrodite Garden" she named it. It wasn't a terrible place actually; the shop was pleasant to be around but the weather in Forks was sometimes humid in a way. I hate how it makes my hair frizz. Soon I began to help around the shop, it became the most fun place to be around. Upon turning 14, Anthony left home, leaving Cordelia alone with me. Now I am 17 years old, in my junior year of high school. I'm in no after-school clubs, play any sports, and rarely have any friends here in this boring old town. I just spend my time at Aphrodite's and reading literature. I guess you can say I spend so much time there that people at school start suspect that I'm a witch. Ironic, isn't it? Occasionally, I would daydream and return to that place I always return to. Sometimes I can hear them even when I-.

"Christine."

I looked up and found Cordelia calling my name, holding a spatula in hand, and wearing her 'Plant Mom' Apron. I must have been daydreaming again. "Are you okay? You'll hardly touch your food." I think I hardly eat anything nowadays. "How was your sleep? Did you sleep well?" She asks. I can hardly even sleep. My dream always begins to become like that place that pulls me in every night. Same hallway. Same portrait on the wall. Same door. And that same voice calling me as they are longing to see me as I am to them. 

"Christine."

"Hmmm." "Is there something on your mind? Are those kids bothering you again," she asked. "No. I'm fine Cordelia. Don't worry. I can handle myself." Cordelia sighed as she walked toward me and held my hand. "Promise me you will tell me if something bothers you," she said. "You know I will. I must go. I'll make sure to be by the shop earlier to help with the batch order."

I stood up and grabbed my bag and keys and walked out. I headed toward my black Prius hybrid (I own a Prius but it's gold but yeah) as I unlocked it and got inside, started it up, and began my route to school. Cordelia never really wanted me to call her 'Mom.' Only because when she adopted me, she told me it wasn't necessary yet. To call her Cordelia instead as I always have. Soon I made it to school, turned into the lot, and parked my car in a designated spot. As soon as I got out, I grabbed my bag and went inside. Keeping my head down and walking toward my locker in an attempt to avoid one person in mind. But.

"Hey there Enchantress."

I sighed and looked to my side, and it was Mike. I rolled my eyes in annoyance "What is it, Mike."

'It's unfair enough I share English with him.'

"Rumor has it that one of the measuring cylinders exploded during Bio. You wouldn't have anything to do about that," he said as he leaned right by my locker. "If I did, you wouldn't hear it from me. Besides it wasn't my cylinder." I continue to browse my locker getting my books for class. Trying to get out of this conversation. "Are you sure? You didn't cast any spells before class, right," he asked smirking. I slam my locker door shut as I turn to look at him. "Go away. Don't you have better things to do than annoy me?"

I walk off with books in my hand as I run my hand through my curly hair in frustration. Why so early in the morning? He has annoyed me since the school started. Like God, what will it take for him to leave me alone? I walked into my English class, and I saw Mr. Mason was on his computer. I saw the classroom was rowdy as ever. I walked to my usual seat which was at the back of the class and put my things beside my chair. I sigh. English. One of my favorite classes. Reading literature is one of my favorite things of mine. I blame my brother Anthony for that. He would read every book he could get his hands on and sing to me. Oh, Anthony.

'I wonder what he’s doing now.'

Suddenly the bell rang, and a girl came inside that I had never seen before. She had brown hair, and ivory skin and didn't seem like someone who would play sports despite the sports jersey she was wearing. I wouldn't tell. She gave Mr. Mason a paper and stood there. I don’t think I ever have seen her before besides my usual classmates like Rosalie, Alice, Mike, and Eric. The last bell rang, meaning everyone must be in their class; Mr. Mason closed the door as the classroom continue to be busy.

"Alright class. Settle down," Mr. Mason said.

The class fell silent. “Okay, Ms. Isabella Swan. You can see in the back,” he said as he motioned her to sit down. Wait, did I just hear that right? Isabella. Swan. Do you mean?

'Bella.'

[haganezukawaifu]

Crazy to say I love New Moon but I'm having the hardest time writing it. The best I can say is that I rewrote some chapters.

New Moon | colors

[pizzatrocious]

They watched the night sky with a hollow sense of longing as they made their way toward the building in the distance. The night felt as though it'd gone on forever, and for them, it would. Both of them had accepted their fates long ago, long before this. For one of them, their fate was relinquished to passion. For the other, it was given out of love.

It was fairly easy to leave the battlefield, once the fog began to clear. Despite their struggle to stay together, the clones that littered the battlefield were little more than child's play to one of them, all the effort to dispatch them being in swinging the weapon itself. When the fog began to clear, they knew it'd be for the best to make their exit as well. After all... a sad, prolonged goodbye would be too much for one of their hearts to bear, and too much of a time-waster for the other, who was barely managing as it is.

The Peppino clone shambled through the slightly-damaged, unlocked doors of Peppino's Pizzeria, their body bubbling and struggling to hold its shape. Managing to find a pencil and blank receipt paper after a bit of a struggle, they sat down at one of the tables that'd been pushed to the side, the night sky through the windows illuminating them.

One of them spoke, but... not verbally. Instead, a voice echoed through their head, his otherwise rough demeanor declawed by his exhaustion.

'Well... hell of a workout, but we're here.'

@rosadolces

[wariodemambo]

Would anyone blame him for diving headfirst into catharsis?

He'd tuned out the world, savoring every swing. The humiliation, the tragedy, hurting his friends and threatening to hurt more... The situation had to be dire if gruff and greedy Wario was willing to play the hero...

... And he does mean hero, with his entire heart. No lame excuses or dodging around the fact. He's trying to save Peppino, Gustavo, Omino, Papeeno, Ronnie, Gold, Shokora, and anyone who was at risk of being on that horrendous show like he had. This was why Cotton Candy Desmond Mambo-Spaghetti saved him and why, even as his body slowed, he'd push forward until his mind gave out.

It's a shame Peppino's horrendous battle cry interrupted his rhythm. Sending him further back under the tent and into a particular stranger.

...Or, a not-so-stranger. A Peppino clone, in specific. A sight he'd all but accustomed to since he started working at the pizzeria if his late daughter wasn't evidence enough.

But he found himself... stalling, looking up at them. How had his impact nearly crumbled them? These guys were known for their resilience above all else... so why.

He paused, as he took in its color scheme.

He may have been drunk off his ass, but he could never forget the skull-patterned clone who sliced him up that one night.

Nor could he ignore the pink that accompanied his new get-up.

He opened his mouth to try and say... something. But what was there to say? He continued to have questions that'd go unanswered, but... he could see her determined eyes through his manic smile.

... Wario knew he couldn't stop her. So they may as well enjoy the time they have left.

❝ And here I was thinkin' you forgot 'bout me! You little brat. ❞ A chuckle accompanied by a bitterness-defying smile — he wasn't Wario if he didn't take an unserious stab at someone. No exceptions. He tossed one of the copies into the swing of their metal pipe and broke into a shoulder bash to mow down the crowd around them. Of course, he wouldn't get a long break after that explosion. Why would any of them be so lucky?

She guards his back as he watches hers, and together, they make quick work of the army of snakes.

By the time he turned around, they were already off. He understood he could not follow... But he was happy to have the chance to fight by her side.

❝ GIVE 'EM HELL, KID! ❞ He called out as the other ran back into the serpentine sea. ❝ MAKE 'IM REGRET MESSIN' WITH YA! ❞

...

And thank you for everything.

[gildead]

EXCUSE ME, WHAT IS THAT.

[haganezukawaifu]

When I think of Aphrodite Garden, I think of this.

[phonypizza]

( @rosadolces ) Eye contact. Recognition. It moves too swiftly, scruffing Dough Rat and tossing him into an appropriately sized glass container. After another second ... SMACK! A sticker is slapped onto the enclosure as it rushes back into the kitchen again. Something smells like it's burning...

@rosadolces The poor thing has no chance to react - suddenly it's snatched up without even a chance to struggle, only feeble squeaking and squealing as it twitches in grip. The glass it's stuffed into is barely big enough for it to do more than turn around, but there's a whiff of... something... in the air...

Something is burning something burning no no no please no no no not like this not like this

[thebananwithaplan]

((Well THAT escalated quickly.))

[haganezukawaifu]

𝑅𝑜𝓈𝒶 𝒟𝑜𝓁𝒸𝑒 𝒞𝒽𝒶𝓅𝓉𝑒𝓇 𝟨

~𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓸𝓾𝓼 ~ 𝓜.𝓵𝓲𝓼𝓽~ 𝓝𝓮𝔁𝓽 ~

My sleep was interrupted by a smell that woke me up. I sniffed again and it didn't smell like smoke. I jump out of bed, leave my room and walk downstairs. The moment I got downstairs, I saw Cordelia in the kitchen, cooking. I checked the time and it was 5 am. So early. I walk into the kitchen and the sound of my feet patting on the floor alerts Cordelia to my presence.

Seeing me, Cordelia said, "I knew you will awaken." I cross my arms and look at the pan. "How can I not when you're making my favorites?" Cordelia chuckles softly. "I know I will not be back until Sunday evening. But I had to start on your dinner so you don't have to worry about cooking when you get home and breakfast as well," she said as she set a pancake on a plate. I nodded my head as she cooked. From what I could see, she made homemade pancakes for me and croque madame for her. Her favorite meal. Seeing that she had finished cooking, I asked Cordelia.

"Hey. Cordelia. Do you know Latin by chance?" Cordelia hesitates before responding "Not really. I'm not skilled at it. Why. Are you studying Latin at school?" she asked. I shook my head and lied "There is an essay for English. And some words are in Latin. I just need to translate them for my paper." Cordelia nods her head in response before putting food in the fridge. "Well, I have a Latin-English dictionary in my office. You can use it for your essay," she says. "That's very helpful. I'll use it for my homework before bed," I said.

I had to know what those words meant. I couldn't talk to Alice. I haven't seen her for two days at school. Speaking of school, Bella was taken home during biology. I didn't expect her to be weak from the blood smell. However, Edward took her home, which shocked me. The next day, he didn't show up. Something about camping in the Goat Rock Wilderness. Which was weird. I wouldn't expect Edward to be the camping type. Looks more like an indoor person to me. I saw Cordelia take off her apron and hang it up and double-check everything in her daily routine before leaving. A habit she does that I now do occasionally. Once she did that, she stopped in front of the door and asked, "Are you sure you don't want me to stay?" "I can reschedule this meeting and work with you." As I shook my head, I could tell she was worried about me. "I'll be fine. Now go to your meeting and enjoy Seattle," I said as I grabbed her hands and held them. Cordelia smiles and nods. I let go of her hands before grabbing her luggage.

"Okay. I'm off. I'll let you know when I get to the hotel. Call me when you need anything," Cordelia said before pecking my head. I nodded my head in response. As she exited the front door, she walked to her black BMW. I wave goodbye as she waves back and gets into her car. I watch as she pulls out of the driveway. I sighed. It was 6:20 when I checked the wall clock. There was no point in getting back to sleep so I ate breakfast. I don't have to be at the shop until 8 and open up, so why not eat breakfast before getting dressed for work. I wore a simple beige jacket with a graphic tee, jeans, and boots. Nothing special. I grab my keys and my backpack. I double-check everything before leaving home. As soon as I exit the door, I lock the door and walk to my car and get inside. I drive straight to Aphrodite Garden.

The shop wasn't far from home. It was close to Newton's Olympic Outfitters and bookstores. It was 20 minutes away. While driving, I listened to my music. Once I arrive at the shop, I park my car and sigh.

'Okay, Christine. You can do it. You can handle a shift alone. Nothing but floral arrangements and phone calls.'

I exhale, open the car door, and get out of the car. I grab the shop key out of my bag and unlock the shop. The moment I open the door, the bell rings. Time to work. I turn on the light and walk into the back and set my things down in Cordelia's small office. I grab my lavender apron with my name and the shop emblem on it.

"Welcome to Aphrodite-." I stood there and saw Bella. "Hey," Bella greeted. "I thought you were heading to First Beach." "Your lights were on so I assumed you were open," Bella replied. I nodded my head. "I have to put things up before flipping the open sign. I thought you were already off to First Beach," I exclaimed as I picked up a box of plant pots and walked off. "No. We're waiting for Lee and Samantha," Bella replied as she shook her head and followed behind. "Didn't you invite anybody?" I asked. "Well I asked you but you're working and I asked Edward but he declined and he said he doesn't think Mike will like him over," Bella responded. I set the pot down by the delphinium. "I see. Maybe he wants to have you all to himself. I mean he did take you home on Wednesday," I say as I look at her. She looks away as she blushes. I chuckle at her bashfulness.

Before I could say anything, I heard the bell ring at the entrance door. "Welcome to Aphrodite-." I saw Mike standing at the entrance. "Hey. Bella. We're ready to go," Mike replied. In response, Bella nodded and said, "Okay." Mike noticed me. "You know Christine? Since you're Bella's friend. You can come along whenever you get off," Mike suggested. "You know that would be quite inviting Mike but I have to work a full shift here. Maybe next time." I smiled gently. "Okay then. Let's go, Bella. You can sit up front in the passenger seat," Mike said. "See you later," Bella said. I wave goodbye as Bella and Mike walk out. I checked the time and it was 8. Well, I'm officially open. Time to work.

After waiting, I didn't get a customer until 30 minutes later. She waited for a florist arrangement for her table, and I was happy to help. After I helped the lovely customer, the day proceeded as it should. I packed up some orders for funerals, weddings, newly born, birthdays, etc., and kept the flowers watered and fresh. Hydrangeas need attention today. I also advise clients on flower combinations. I also had to get updated orders from suppliers. Cordelia calls periodically to check on me, of course. But I was glad to hear her voice. Hours had passed and it was time to close the shop for the day. I sighed. I made it through the day. I began to sweep the floor, wipe the counter, etc. Once I did, I reviewed Cordelia's checklist and completed every task. After hanging up my apron, turning off the lights, and locking up the store, I left the shop. I saw Bella's truck but not Mike's car. Maybe they aren't back yet. After shrugging my shoulders, I drove home in my car.

After a 20-minute drive, I finally arrived home. I got out of my vehicle, stepped inside, and hung my keys on the key hook. I walk into the kitchen and get out the dish Cordelia made this morning and put it in the oven. The good news is she prepared it for me and I only have to put it in the oven. While that was cooking, I walked upstairs to Cordelia's office. It was time to find out what those words meant. I ventured into Cordelia and grabbed her Latin-English dictionary, and began my research. During my search, I came up with a few translations of my own.

'Thus it has always been, and thus it will always be.'

'Life is short, art is long.'

'No one is above the law; it is right and always will be.'

'No one is above the law; it has always been this way and always will be.'

'Life Short Artis.'

So many translations and none make sense. After a while, I put things into perspective, and an answer came to light.

"Life is short, Art is long. Death yours; life mine. No one is above the law. Thus it has always been and thus it will always be."

What does that mean? Life is short. Death yours. No one is above the law. It has always been and will always be. I have so many questions yet I don't know the answers to any. I open my laptop and search once more, this time for my longing question. As I sought to answer the question of my longing, I searched online. Something about those red eyes? Why do I dream of them? What does it mean? I typed on my computer.

'What does it mean to dream of someone you have never met?'

As soon as I clicked on the enter button, multiple results appeared. The top answer was destiny and longing to be with them. Soul Mates it said.

A soulmate. Those red eyes. They are my soulmates. But if that is true, where are they? Do they see me? Do they know I exist? I snap out of my thoughts as I hear the timer downstairs in the kitchen go off. I walk out of the office and reach downstairs to the kitchen to take my food out of the oven. Cordelia's dish looks delicious and tastes good. After dinner, I read "The Great Gatsby". I remember reading this book 2 years ago. It was quite enlightening. After finishing a couple of chapters, I fell asleep. I tried to fight it as much as I could but resisting sleep became a failure. Soon I drifted off to sleep the next day.

I slowly opened my eyes and found myself in a familiar location, back in the room. Only this time I was different. I stood at the door. What would this door lead me to at this time? I open the door and walk inside. I was in a library. Full of books that reach the sky. I couldn't recall so many classics. Some I had never heard of. I reached out to touch the book's hardcover until I heard the door open and hide. All I heard were footsteps and nothing more. While I waited for them to leave, I remained silent. I couldn't stop my heart from beating so loudly.

"Tesaro. Why do you hide?" I heard. "Your heart beats quickly. Don't be afraid. Come. Show yourself," said another voice. A different voice. But this voice had a gentle tone to it.

Standing there, I pondered my thoughts. Should I show myself or stay hidden? I had to know who these figures were. Taking a step, I turned the library shelf corner and saw three figures looking at me. As I stood in front of them, I analyzed their features. The three of them were quite different from one another. One had long jet-black hair and translucent skin. The other had snow-white shoulder-length hair as his skin was pale and translucent. Lastly, the last man had black hair that was shoulder length. His skin, on the other hand, was pale. Both were tall and average-built. However, their eyes conveyed a sense of comfort and kindness in addition to their beauty. I was stunned. I sat on the floor looking up at them.

"Come, Cara Mia," the jet-black-haired man said as he extended his hand toward me. I hesitated to grab it until I extended my hand to touch his. The moment our hands touched, he held it with care as I slowly walked toward him. He never let go of my hand as we left the library. The moment we walk down the hall, we stop at the window. He turns to face me, as I did, and the two men beside him turn as well. There was silence as the man that held my hand pecked on my hand palm. I let out a gasp as I stared at him. He looks at me with adoration as he reaches forward to touch me. But before he could.

I awaken from my sleep and lay there for a moment. I lifted my hand into view, the same hand he pecked. His touch was delicate and his lips were soft. The way they looked at me, their beauty alone was all I could think about. Suddenly the phone rang, causing me to snap out of my train of thought. Must be Cordelia. I ran downstairs to answer the phone. "Hello," I answered. "Hey, Christine. It's Bella," I heard on the phone. Bella. I checked the clock and it was 5 a.m. So early. What is she doing calling me this early? "I didn't wake you, did I?" Bella said. As I shook my head, I replied, "No, you didn't. I just woke up anyway." 'Oh' is all I heard on the other line of the phone. "What is it? You're calling pretty early?" I said. "Well, I have been doing a bit of research lately," Bella told me.

'Research'

"What research have you been doing?" I asked curiously. "Well you know I went to First Beach today," Bella mentioned. In response, I hmm. In addition, Bella mentions that she met someone named Jacob Black. "Jacob?" I asked. "Charles bought the truck from his dad," she said. 'Ah' is the only sound I make. "Was that it? That you met someone named Jacob, whose truck your dad brought?" I inquired. "That's not it. Jacob told me some old stories that shook me," Bella added. Stories. I asked her what kind of old stories and she answered "It was about the Cullens." My eyes widened as I heard Cullen's name through the phone. What about the Cullens? "I'm sorry. Did you just say the Cullens? What about them?" I asked. There are stories about the Quileutes, she told me. Some claim to date back to the Flood where they tied their canoes to the top of the tallest tree in the mountains to survive like Noah did. Other claims that they descended from wolves. "Then there were the cold ones," Bella said.

'The cold one.'

"Jacob told me that the cold one's stories were old as legend. His great-grandfather knew some of them. He made a treaty with them to keep them off their land," Bella said. "A treaty. So was he like a chief or something?" Bella replied, "He was a tribal elder and the cold ones were enemies of the wolves. But not just any wolf, but werewolves as he called them. Despite his great-grandfather's truce with them, the cold ones claim they do not hunt humans. That they somehow feed on animals instead." Werewolves. Cold ones. This story has so much. But I only have one question.

"How does the cold one have anything to do with the Cullens? They can't be the same as the legends he told you about. Could they?" I wonder. "He said they were the same." I sat there quietly. As per legend, the Cullen could not be the cold one. "If the Cullen are the same as those in the legend, they are what?" I asked. Through the phone, Bella replied "Blood drinkers Jacob told me. Or in other words,"

'Vampires.'

I stood there in shock. There's no way. It can't be. Werewolves. Vampire. They can't be real. Only books and movies depict them. Vampires sleep in coffins. They don't walk out in daylight. During the night, they feed on humans. It just didn't sound like the Cullens. "Christine. Are you still there?" Bella called out to me. "Umm. Yeah. Just a bit overwhelmed. I just don't think the Cullens are vampires," I replied. "I researched, and there are different vampire myths held throughout the world, such as Danag, Varacolaci, and Stregoni benefici. I also compared it to each myth. Speed, strength, pale skin, eyes that shift color," Bella said.

My mind wanders back to that school day. Before the accident. The day Edward stopped the van from hitting Bella. As well as the pale skin, the eyes. Not only were there comparisons to them but also to the figure in my dream. Could Edward be a vampire? "And there was more. Some say some vampires can be drawn to you and appear in your life," Bella said. "That would explain my dreams." "Your dream?" Bella inquired. Before realizing what I had said, I was silent. Did I just mention my dreams? I heard Bella call my name as I sighed. I couldn't hide it anymore. If I need to tell anyone, I can tell Bella. I can trust her.

"Bella. I think it's better if I come over. There is something I need to tell you.”

[haganezukawaifu]

𝑅𝑜𝓈𝒶 𝒟𝑜𝓁𝒸𝑒 𝑀𝒶𝓈𝓉𝑒𝓇𝓁𝒾𝓈𝓉

Christine Anderson always felt like she was longing for someone. Perhaps someone she always dreamed about. Someone who is always calling for her.

But what if that someone happens to be three of the most powerful vampires in the world and soon she realizes her whole world got turned upside down?

If you have read this story on A03, awesome but if not, welcome. All Rights belong to Stephanie Myers. Only I own the character, Christine Anderson, the character I created, and Christine's plotline.

Wc in total: ?

Rosa Dolce (Twilight)

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9- Coming Soon

[haganezukawaifu]

𝓡𝓸𝓼𝓪 𝓓𝓸𝓵𝓬𝓮 𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓽𝓮𝓻 9

~𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓸𝓾𝓼 ~ 𝓜.𝓵𝓲𝓼𝓽~ 𝓝𝓮𝔁𝓽 ~

I stood in the mirror to adjust my outfit. I wore a white sweater with a white vest, a plaid skirt, and black tights. My hair was uncertain. It was either braided on either side or an updo. I could have let it out but instead, I just did my half up half down duo, my usual style. I looked in the mirror to gain confidence.

'Christine. You can do it. You're heading to a house blood-sucking vampires who feed on animals. Not humans. What could be wrong?'

I breathed and exhaled as I exited my room. I headed toward the kitchen as Cordelia noticed me. "Oh you're up early," Cordelia replied.

Heading to the fridge, I picked up two waffles and put them in the toaster. "I'm going over to a friend's place," I said as I waited for my waffles to pop up.

"A morning hangout. How fun?" she said. I open the cabinet and pull out a plate. Just at the right time, my waffles popped up from the toaster. After placing them on the plate, I sat down at the small kitchen table. I grabbed the syrup, poured it over the waffles, and took the first bite. Curiosity spread across Cordelia's face as she asks "So who is this friend you're going over to? Is she Bella?"

"It's the Cullen," I answer. She looks at me surprised. "I never knew you and the Cullen were close," she said.

"W-Well. Alice, the girl that came into Aphrodite. We started talking and we had a pleasant relationship, so she invited me over," I replied as I continued to eat.

"Oh. this Alice. Do you like her?" Cordelia asked. I choked as Cordelia's response caught me off guard. Cordelia laughed at my reaction. "Cordelia," I yelled.

"What? You know I love you just the way you are?" she said as she sat down with coffee. As soon as she sat down next to me, she grabbed my face and smiled at me. "No matter who you choose to be with." She pecked my head. As soon as I grasped her hands, I got her to let me go.

"Cordelia. We're just friends. In addition, she has a boyfriend," I said as I stabbed my fork into my waffles.

Cordelia snickered at my reaction. "Well, I'm glad you are gaining more friends," Cordelia said as she drank her coffee. I turn to her as she smiles at me. She knew I was having trouble forming friendships here, but Cordelia was my only support through it all.

I finish eating and wash my dishes. "Well, I'm heading out."

"Okay. I'll see you in the shop," Cordelia said.

I nod my head in response and grab my keys and bag and exit through the front door. I went to my car and sat in the driver's seat. I then pulled out the card Alice wrote the directions on. I used my phone to get directions to the Cullen home. After passing the Calawah River bridge, other houses flashed past us. They became farther away. As I drove through a misty forest. I'm further out than that, I thought to myself. I then turned onto a dirt road. It was unmarked, you could barely see it among the ferns. The forest encroached on both sides, making the road ahead unclear for a few meters. It twisted like a serpent around the trees. After driving slowly for a few miles, I saw a thinning of the woods. It was almost like a meadow or a lawn. Soon I saw it, the Cullen house. Six primordial cedars shaded an entire acre with their branches. The tree held its shadow up to the house wall.

As I step out, I admire their home from the outside. It looks timeless, graceful, and probably a hundred years old. It was painted in soft faded white and stood three stories tall. There was also a deep porch wrapping around the house front. It had a lovely charm to it. I noticed Bella's truck. I shut my car door and walked to the front door. I stood there patiently, quietly.

'Okay. Christine. You got this.'

After giving myself every bit of confidence, I breathed and exhaled. When I reached out to knock on the door, Alice opened it and stood beaming brightly.

"You're here," she said.

I nodded my head smiling. I was surprised as Alice grabbed my hand and pulled me inside. At the door, I noticed the house looked nice as my eyes wandered around. The inside of the first floor was open and bright with a few internal walls. To the left of the front door was a wide central staircase. To the right was a raised area with a grand piano in the center, a dining room, and a kitchen.

"Nice huh," Alice said. I nodded my head. From the stairs, I saw Jasper.

"Hello Christine," Jasper greeted me. I greet back. She led me to the raised floor section by the grand piano as I heard Edward's voice asking where's Alice?

"I'm right here," she said as she pulled my hand and there stood Edward, Bella, Dr. Carlisle Cullen, and a woman. But no Rosalie and Emmett. I wonder where they are.

"Christine, I would like to introduce you to Carlisle and Esme," Alice said.

Esme. She was pale and beautiful. She was small, but less angular and more rounded than the others. Something about her heart-shaped face and soft caramel-colored hair reminded me of those silent movies. She smiled warmly. Carlisle and Esme were both dressed casually. I feel like I overdid my outfit.

"Umm. Happy to see you again Dr. Cullen," I said nervously.

"You're very welcome Christine and please as I told your friend, Bella, call me Carlisle." I nod my head.

"Christine, it is lovely to meet you," Mrs. Cullen said as she reached for my hand. Her hand was cold.

"It's nice to meet you too, Mrs. Cullen."

"Alice didn't tell me you were aesthetically pleasing," Mrs. Cullen remarked.

"Oh, thank you, Mrs. Cullen, " I blushed. "You can call me Esme," she replied. I nodded my head, and responded, "Of course Mrs... I mean Esme."

My eyes wandered around. Their home looks nice. It's clean and bright. "Alice told me that your mother owned that adorable flower shop in town," Esme responded.

"Y-Yes. Since we moved here, Cordelia has run it. I help her out sometime. That table centerpiece, I made myself," I said as I pointed to the lavender and tulips centerpiece on the grand piano.

"Really. You have quite a talent," Esme said. I felt Alice bump my shoulder, teasing me. I could feel my cheeks heating up at her comment.

"T-Though with a lovely home like this, I am honored that my work can sit in your home." With a bright smile, Esme replied "The honor is all mine."

 I smiled as I felt a small bump on my hip. I turn toward Bella as she looks at me. She leans in close to me and whispers, "I didn't know you were coming here."

"I got invited to come over by Alice on the day she came to the shop. And you?"

"It was a last-minute thing," Bella whispered.

I nodded in understatement. My eyes wandered and landed on the piano and so did Bella. "Do any of you play?" Esme asked me and Bella.

"Oh no. I don't. As a child, I never got into playing a musical instrument, unlike my brother. I was more of a dancer," I explained.

"You dance. What type of dance?" Esme asked.

"Ballet," I answered.

"Really? You have to invite us to the next show," Esme said. "I'll be sure to get a ticket to my next performance when that comes," I replied with a nod. I cleared my throat to focus on Bella.

"Umm, Bella. What about you? Do you play?" I asked.

Shaking her head, she replied, "Not at all. It's very beautiful. Is it yours?" She laughed and answered no. "Edward didn't tell you he was musical," she said. Bella and I both look at Edward and reply "No."

I had no idea Edward could play piano. "Edward can do everything, right?" Bella replied as I heard Jasper snicker. It was then I heard Esme scold Edward hoping he hadn't been showing off saying it was rude before telling him to play for us.

"I thought showing off was rude," Edward objected. "Well there is an exception to every rule," Esme replied.

"I would like to hear you play," Bella said. I'd like to hear as well. A push from Esme leads Edward toward the piano and he pulls Bella along to sit on a bench beside him. While walking toward the piano, I stood by the side. Edward played a beautiful melody. Bella's eyes lit up with amazement, while I was filled with awe.

His fingers move swiftly on the keys. I was amazed. The melody was beautiful as it shifted to a soft tone. As I listened, I heard Alice whisper "Hey Christine, you wanna come with me for a second? I can show you around the house." I nodded my head in response. Alice walks to the stairs as I follow her. Suddenly I heard a different melody. The moment we walked up the stairs, Alice whispered to me: "I think Esme likes you."

"Does she? Are you sure I wasn't an idiot?" I asked.

Alice giggled as she shook her head. "Where's Rosalie and Emmett? I didn't see them," I asked. "They're around. Now let's show you around," Alice said.

She showed me everything. To Carlisle's room, Rosalie and Emmett's room, to her and Jasper's room. It was all pleasant. "So what do you think? Not what you expected, huh?" Alice asked. "It looks nice and old. How old is your home?" I asked curiously. "Early sixteen-thirties," Alice said. Wow. It's an antique. She told me that it belonged to Carlisle's father and that he carved it himself.

"Just curious, how old is Carlisle?" I asked. "367," Alice said.

My eyes widen at her response. 367. I had a million questions in my head. In response to her question, I asked, "Where was he born? What year did he turn?"

"He was born in London in 1640," Alice said. She then told me that he was the only son of an Anglican pastor. His mother died in childbirth. His father was intolerant. During that time, Protestants came to power and he strongly believed in evil. His father led the hunt for witches, werewolves, and vampires.

'How awful.'

I also learned that innocent people were burned. Despite his best effort, he couldn't find the monster he wanted. The pastor grew old and appointed Carlisle to the raid. Carlisle was more persistent than his father. He found a coven of vampires living in the city sewers, only coming out at night to hunt. One emerged and he was ancient and weak with hunger. She told me that the vampire ran through the street as Carlisle yelled out in Latin to warn the others. Being 23 at the time, he was fast and pursued. The vampire then attacked him but the others were close behind. In defense, the vampire killed two men and snatched a third, leaving Carlisle to bleed on the street. Anything infected by the monster must be destroyed, but Carlisle acts instinctively to save his life.

After crawling away, the vampire and his victim were followed by the mob. Carlisle then hid in a cellar, burying himself in rotting potatoes for three days. "Could you believe that he stayed hidden without being noticed?" Alice said.

"I believe it."

I was drawn into the story. I asked, "And what happened next?" She then smiled and said, "You know I think it's better if we go and speak with Carlisle himself. You should go to his office," Alice said as she pulled along. "O-Oh okay. Is it safe?" I asked.

Alice giggled and replied yes. I nodded my head and walked to his office. As soon as I arrived, I saw Edward and Bella. Edward noticed and replied "Back again I see," Edward replied. "I came to learn about Carlisle's history. Alice told me to come."

"You're in luck, and so is Bella," Edward said as he looked at her. I look at Bella and she responds, "I want to know myself."

I nod my head. As we waited at the door, I heard a faint voice saying come in as Edward opened the door. Carlisle's office was interesting. The walls were paneled in dark wood. Most of the wall space was taken up by towering bookshelves that held more books than I have ever seen in a library. Carlisle sat behind his mahogany desk.

"What can I do for you?" Carlisle asked, rising from his seat.

"I wanted to show Bella some of our history," Edward replied.

"I too came to learn your history. I hope we didn't disturb you," I said. Carlisle shook his head. "Where would you like to start?" he asked. "The Waggoner," Edward said.

It was then that we faced a wall different from the others. Framed pictures of all sizes adorned this wall. In vibrant colors and dull monochromes. We were now standing in front of a small square oil painting in a plain wooden frame. I began to examine the details of this painting as it was painted in varying sepia tones. A miniature city with steeply slanted roofs and scattered towers topped by thin spires appears in the painting. Moreover, there was a wide river in the foreground crossed by a bridge covered with tiny cathedral structures.

"London in 1650," Edward began.

Carlisle a few feet behind me added, "London of my youth."

Edward asked if Carlisle would like to tell the story, but Carlisle explained he was running late and told Edward to tell it. As he knows it better than Carlisle himself. Carlisle then left the room leaving me with Edward and Bella. I later discovered this painting. This city was Carlisle's hometown. "Then what happened? When he realized it?" Bella asked. "When he knew what he had become, he rebelled against it. He tried to destroy himself but that's not easy," Edward said. The biggest shock was Carlisle jumping and drowning himself but he survived. He was born into another life and was very strong but his instincts were strong and took over everything.

He then grew very hungry and weak. He kept away from humans but his willpower weakened. He wandered nightly for months, loathing himself and seeking the loneliest places. My heart sank with guilt for Carlisle. In the middle of the night, a herd of deer passed through his hiding place. He was so thirsty that he attacked the deer without hesitation. It was then that his strength returned and that there was an alternative to being the vile monster that everyone feared.

"So he realizes that you don't have to kill people for blood," I said. Edward nods his head as he continues. "He made good use of his time. He was always intelligent. He studied at night and planned by day. He swam to France," Edward said.

"He swam to France," Bella said.

Like Bella, I was shocked. Edward explained that vampires didn't have to breathe while swimming. That breathing was just a habit. To continue, Carlisle swam to France and then traveled through Europe to universities. By night, he studied music, science, and medicine. It was at that moment that Carlisle knew he had found his calling in helping people.

It took two centuries of torturous effort to perfect his self-control over blood and now immune to the smell of blood, he can do the work he loves. The hospital was a place where he felt peace. Then he tapped his finger on a different painting that was different from the others in front of us. "In Italy, Carlisle was studying when he discovered the others there," Edward said.

"Others," Bella questioned.

"Much more civilized and educated than the London sewer wraiths," Edward explained. I examined the painting he touched. In the image, it was a comparatively sedate quartet of figures painted on the highest balcony, looking down calmly at the mayhem below them. And there I noticed a golden-haired man named Carlisle painted beside them.

"Carlisle's friends greatly inspired Solimena. He often painted them as gods," Edward said as he pointed them out calling them by name.

"Aro, Marcus, and Caius. Nighttime patrons of the arts," he said.

As I heard Edward talking in the background, I stared at the painting hanging on the wall. I looked at the figure on the balcony. I have seen them. I have seen them before. Their hair. Their features. Eyes that show adoration for me. I know them. I realized as I said, "It's them." Bella turned toward me and replied, "What?" I looked at her and pointed at the painting hanging on the wall.

"It's them. The ones in my dreams.

[haganezukawaifu]

𝓡𝓸𝓼𝓪 𝓓𝓸𝓵𝓬𝓮 𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓽𝓮𝓻 8

~𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓸𝓾𝓼 ~ 𝓜.𝓵𝓲𝓼𝓽~ 𝓝𝓮𝔁𝓽 ~

As Alice analyzed every flower, I walked beside her. It was challenging to start a conversation after not seeing her for a few days. She hummed and I watched her every moment. How do I start this conversation? What do I say? "These are Snapdragons, correct?" Alice asked before I could speak. "What is the meaning of them?" she asked. "They mean deception and generosity." "What about Zinnias?" What is the meaning of them?" she pondered. "People usually get them when they think of a friend but they can be lasting affection." Alice continued to wander around the showroom.

"I'm surprised you haven't asked me any questions," Alice said. "I have many questions to ask but I'm sure you can only answer a few." Alice giggled. "Try me. I will answer as many questions as I can." I tried to think of a question to ask, but I didn't know where to start. All I could say was:

"You're a vampire, aren't you?" I questioned. Not the first question I wanted to ask. Alice laughed as she walked. She replied, "So that was your first question." I follow behind her and ask, "W-Well. Are you?" She looks at me, nods, and says "Yes I am. Though you already know that. "Any other questions?" I can only respond with the obvious question that has been on my mind. "You asked me about my dreams. Why? How did you know about my dream? I never told anyone about them," I said. "It was just a simple matter. Your eyes made it seem like you'd seen it all before," she replied. As Alice touched the rose petal, she said, "You weren't the only one who saw the crash. I stared at Alice as she responded. Not the only one. Does that mean?

"You dreamt of that crash too?" I asked. Alice shook her head and turned toward me and stated, "More like I saw it." Saw it, I thought to myself. Alice explained it to me as subjective precognition or visions. "To sum it up for you, I'm able to perceive my visions based on decisions made by people," she explained. Therefore, she can see the future if the person follows through on their intentions. "In the same way that mine predicts the future, so do your dreams," she said. So... I have a gift. Huh. I also thought that my dreams would be something I dreamed up and never thought they would be visions. To be real events. "Anything you want to ask me," Alice said as she walked.

"What was your life like?" I asked.

She stopped walking and turned to look at me.

"As a human. I mean. Do you remember anything before becoming a vampire? Your family. Where did you live before?" I continued with my question. Alice turned and sat down on the stone bench and said "I don't remember much from my human life when I got turned." I guess when you're turned into a vampire, you don't recall your past life. "I however have one question for you," Alice replied. "What is that?" I said. "When did you experience your first vision?" she asked. I sighed as I sat next to her on the bench.

"My first drea vision was when I was 5 years old. I was in foster care. I envision a woman with black hair and half-burgundy bangs. I remember wearing a band tee with a black jacket and skirt. The next two days, I didn't realize that the woman was Cordelia. After that, I had a new vision of these figures. So far, I have only dreamed of different events," I replied. I chuckle. "It's funny. When I was 14, I dreamt someone was leaving. I didn't expect it to be my brother," I said as I looked down. I felt Alice touch my shoulder. She smiled at me as I focus on her. Alice said, "I will take some tulips and lavender for a centerpiece. Let me know if you can arrange it." I replied, "Yes, of course. I'll arrange that for you now. Umm. Any color tulip would do." Alice nods her head and smiles as I gather up some tulips and lavender.

I arranged her flowers and put them in a box. As I chose a ribbon, I grabbed a pink ribbon and pulled it to the right length. And right when I was cutting the ribbon, I heard Alice say "Would you like to come over?" I stopped what I was doing and said "What?" "Would you like to come over to my home?" Alice said with a smile. I resumed my task and cut the ribbon. "Umm...What day?" I asked as I wrapped the ribbon around the box. "You can come Sunday morning," Alice suggested. I paused. "Do you think it would be safe to come to a house full of vampires?" I asked. Alice chuckled. "I mean sure. We can also have you for dinner," Alice said. I gulp as she laughs at my reaction. "I'm kidding," Alice said. As I finish tying the ribbon and giving her the box, I chuckle. "I can come, but I must leave at 3. I'll close the shop with Cordelia." Alice nodded as she took a card and wrote something down. "Here is the address," Alice said as she pushed the card toward me. As I grabbed the card, I held it tightly. "I'll see you there," Alice said as she grabbed the box and walked out.

I hold the card and look at the address. I'm heading to the Cullen house on Sunday. I can't believe it. The day continued as expected and school started the next morning. Bella rode with Edward this morning, which surprised me. I was unable to ask her everything so after English class, "So he saved you from the thugs, took you out for dinner, took you home, and today you rode with him to school," I responded. Bella nodded her head. "I say you made progress," I said as we walked to my locker. "More than less," Bella replied, following me. "I'm sure Jessica had a question. What did she say?" I asked as I opened my locker. "She wanted to know if we were a couple," Bella replied. I waited for her to continue until I added "And." "I told her we were," Bella responded. I stood there in shock as I held my locker door open. "I see. But do you like him?" I asked as I grabbed my books.

A sigh escapes her lips as she presses her head on the locker. "It's difficult to know whether he likes me or not because he's always so-" Bella said. "Cryptic," I replied, concluding her sentence. Bella nodded her head and said, "There's more to him than just his gorgeous looks." I liked him more than he liked me. It's like I can't avoid him." Hmmm... I figured she was interested in him but didn't know it was serious. I softly chuckle and Bella asks "What?" I lean in and say "It seems like Edward has drawn you in." Soon the bell rings, signaling the next class will start. "We'll talk at lunch," I replied. "Yeah. See you at lunch," Bella said as we both parted ways.

The class continued as usual. We watched a movie in Government class. An old schoolhouse rock song about a bill. Eventually, government class ended and it was time to leave for the cafeteria. I started packing up my belongings and putting them in my backpack. As I walked out of class, I saw Edward and Bella awaiting me at the locker. I slowly walked toward them. "Hey," Edward muttered. "Hey," I said. "Would you like to sit with us during lunch?" Edward inquired. I asked Bella for confirmation and she nodded her head. "Umm. Sure. I'd love that." Edward turns to walk to the cafeteria and Bella walks alongside me. I was never asked to sit by anyone, even the Cullen. This is new.

After reaching the cafeteria, I saw Edward grab a tray and I grabbed a tray and picked anything that looked good. What I noticed was that Edward had piled his tray with food. "What are you doing?" Bella asked. Edward turned his attention to Bella. "You're not getting all that for me," Bella said. He shook his head before buying food on his tray. "Half is for me," he replied. I brought mine soon after him. "I didn't know vampires could eat food like we do," I said. As we sat down, Edward offered, "We don't. Take whatever you want," he offered as he pushed the tray towards us. There was a lot of food on the tray. I only got fruit and pizza. Bella grabbed an apple and asked, "What would you do if someone dared you to eat food?" That's a good question. I was curious. "You're always curious, Bella. I'm sure you are too Christine," Edward said. "Well, I mean. It doesn't hurt to know." Edward shook his head as he grabbed a slice of pizza and bit into it.

He began to chew quickly and swallow. I stare at Bella as her eyes widen and return to Edward. "So...," I said. Edward shook his head as he put down the slice of pizza and said, "It tastes like dirt." I tilted my head in confusion at his response. "It can't be that terrible." "If someone dared you to eat dirt, you could," Edward said. I shook my head indicating that I wouldn't but soon Bella replied "I did once... On a dare." I turn to her as I wrinkle my nose at her response. I would never expect Bella to eat dirt and for her to state it wasn't terrible made it more outrageous. I wouldn't dare do that. "Christine," Edward said, grabbing my attention. I look at him as he says "Alice told me she came to your flower shop," Edward said. "Yes. She did. She came for centerpieces and answered my questions," I replied. Edward nodded his head. I also mentioned that she told me she was a vampire, and that our dreams are just visions. "So Alice isn't the only one with a gift. Edward can read minds," Bella said.

I stared at Bella in shock as my curiosity led me to ask Edward, "You can read minds." "All except Bella," he replied as he turned to her. I asked him how, and he could not give me a reason. Bella doesn't know why either. "If that's true, what am I thinking about?" I replied. Edward chuckled and replied to me that I was thinking of the paper I would receive tomorrow in English, which was correct. Good reading, I guess. "Plus the day of the crash, you were so wrapped up in the crash in your vision. Alice told me that she saw it but you couldn't get it out of your mind including your dreams," Edward said. So because of my thoughts, he has listened all this time. "That's insane," I said. Edward snickered as he asked if we had any more questions. "I have one question. Goat Rock. Why did you go there?" Bella asked. "We were hunting. Emment's favorite is Grizzly," he replied. Did he just say Grizzly? As a grizzly bear. Rather than hunting humans, they hunt animals. I asked Emment why he loved grizzly bears and animals and in response, he explained "It's to resist the urge to feed on humans. In a way, I would say we are vegetarians. They eat animals but not humans," Edward said. So you do not need human blood to survive. "What is your favorite?" Bella asked. Edward leaned in toward us and said "Mountain lions are my favorite."

Soon the bell rang and we stood up and said our goodbyes leaving to walk to Spanish class and Bella and Edward to Biology. Class went as it should and so the day continues. Edward took Bella home. Today and the day after were the same. The day after that, he left to hunt with Alice. Upon returning home from school, I completed my homework before participating in other activities. Cordelia suggested we order pizza tonight, so I ordered it. It was soon nightfall, so I put on my oversized tee and joggers and drifted off to sleep. My dream took me to a place as I slept. Or should I say vision?

I was in a forest. The sky was cloudy but thunder was heard but no rain fell. I heard a motion from the forest and saw three figures approaching. Two men and a woman. The first man was dark-skinned with dreadlocks. He was of medium build, thick muscle with red eyes. The woman had long curly hair like mine but it was bright orange. She was pale and dressed in a coat. The last man was pale, tall, averagely built, and average looking. He wore blue jeans and a soft blue shirt. The thing they all had in common is that they were all barefoot.

I walked into the forest and soon the air became foggy and dark. The further I traveled, the darker it became. As I was surrounded by darkness, I stopped walking. It was quiet, awfully quiet. In that darkness, a door lit up. When I opened that door, I found myself in a mirror room with a wooden floor. There was a gold stripe across the mirror. As I stood there in that mirror room, I heard a splat that scared me. I looked and it was red and dripping. It was blood. Then another behind me and to my left. Once I heard the next, I turned around and there stood the pale man in blue jeans.

He turned toward me with his mouth covered in blood. His eyes were black and he growled. I panted as he examined me. I couldn't stop my heart from beating out of my chest. In an instant, I ran for it, but he stopped me and grabbed me by the throat. I tried to get rid of his hands, but couldn't. As he leaned close to me, he whispered:

"Time for the main course."

He could feel his breath on my neck. He leaned back and gave me a wicked smile and without hesitation, he lunged straight into my throat and...

"AAHHH."

I gasp as I touch my neck in fear. I gulp as I pant. Who was that and what was that? This is quite different from the crash dream. This was more violent. I checked the clock and it was 7 am. I should get out of bed and shower. I'm sure Alice is waiting for me. Besides, who knows what else I might see?

[haganezukawaifu]

To 2023 to 2024.

I didn’t think I get this far. A03 readers, thank you.

[haganezukawaifu]

Rosa Dolce Chapter 3

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The dream starts the same. It put me here in the same hallway. But somehow, it was different. The picture wasn't the same as before. They were filled with classics. Among them were Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Vincent van Gosh, and the door was very different. And I felt it pulling me in, telling me to open it. But every time I do, I wake up and never know why. Who's calling me? Why can't I open that door? Why can't I see them? Why. Am. I. So. Afraid?

"Christine."

"Hmm." I snap out of my thoughts. I saw Bella concerned about me. "Are you okay? You just drifted into a daze while I was talking to you," Bella asked, concerned. I nodded my head. "Yeah. I have just been having weird dreams lately, and I can't get them out of my head, and I don't know what they mean." "Like what?" she asked curiously. I froze. I didn't know what to say. I mean, what do you expect me to say?

'Oh well, throughout the night, I dreamed of a 15th-century palace. I have been walking down the same halls, looking at the same pictures, and standing in front of doors I'm afraid to open. I can't seem to understand why I'm here or what's there. Oh, and some voices call out to me every night in my dream.' 

She will probably think I'm crazy or freaked out. So... "It's nothing." I lied. She nodded her head. "But continue. You were talking about Edward." "Yeah. He's-," she continued. I can't believe that she has been here for a week and sitting with me at the same table. I can say Cordelia was ecstatic to see her. She couldn't ever let her go. If I remember correctly, she said, "Oh my gosh. It's little bells. All grown up. Look at you. Isn't she just precious, Christine?" Yeah, those were the words. Her first week was weird, especially in biology. Edward was acting odd, to say the least, and she wanted to know why. She thought she smelled terrible, but that wasn't it. Or maybe she did something wrong, but that wasn't the problem either. So why was he acting odd? He almost missed a week of school. Must have been sick if it was serious.

"It was just weird," Bella said as she tapped her tray. "Maybe he was unwell," I speculated. "I don't know," Bella muttered as she shook her head. Then the bell rang, but before I stood up from my seat, I leaned in and said, "Well, try asking him when you see him. I'll see you later." I stood up and walked to my next class, Spanish. Soon, the day carried on as it should as school ended. Now it was time to go to the garden and work. I had to work on a few batch orders while Cordelia attended a conference call. The order consisted of nothing but simple table décor for newly constructed homes as well as centerpieces and wedding bouquets for winter. Why must people get married in January? After finishing orders and handling customers, it was time to close the shop for the day. Cordelia offered to cook chicken pesto pasta, which was my favorite. After dinner, I took my shower and dressed in an oversized band t-shirt belonging to Anthony that he left behind and sweatpants. I figured I would check over my assignment before bed. As soon as I did that, I slipped under my comforter and fell asleep, expecting the same dream. But as I slept, I noticed something different about this dream.

The darkness enveloped me. The air was cold. It doesn't seem like there is a single speck of snow emanating from the sky. The ground was slick with ice. This is not the same dream. This is a novelty. I could hear a sound. The sound of a car, but where was it coming from? Despite turning in every direction, I could not locate the sound. Until I froze, the sound came from behind. I turned around and stood there. The engine was loud and came closer and closer. I couldn't see the car until I saw the headlights. It was a gray van, and from the look of it, it wasn't stopping. It was heading straight toward me at high speed and coming out of control. I couldn't move as I stood there in shock. I raised my arm to defend myself, but

"AAHH."

I jumped up in fear as I panted. Just when I expected to feel the impact, I awakened from my sleep. I check the clock on my dresser by my bed. 2 am. I sigh as I flop back on my bed. It was a nightmare. I haven't had those since I was 9 years old, but the question I ask myself is: why did that happen? Why did I dream of a crash? Am I in danger of getting hurt—or someone else? After that nightmare, I was unable to sleep, so I got dressed for school instead. Today's weather was different. The temperature had dropped, and the ground was slick. Talk about coincidence. Time passed, and the day proceeded as it normally did. I had trouble focusing on class due to the nightmare. Even during my conversation with Bella, I barely focused. I never expected a nightmare to make me lose focus like this before. 

"You look tired," Bella mentioned. Resting my head on my knuckles, I said, "I didn't have a good sleep last night. " How come?" she asked.

'Don't tell her about the car crash.'

"I um.. forgot to start my project. It's due Friday, and I'm worried about it." I lied, and she nodded her head. "Oh. I'm sure it will be okay. You'll finish it," she said. "Yeah, me too." Soon, the bell rang. "I have to get to class. I'll see you after school in the parking lot," I said as I gathered my belongings. "Hey. I was thinking, Do you want to hang out today? I'm heading to the bookstore after school," Bella replied. I stood there and thought about it. I didn't have to work today at Aphrodite, so technically, I am free. I nodded my head in response.

"Sure, I'll come with."

I began to walk down the hall to Spanish class. Maybe I overreacted to this nightmare; maybe it's just nothing but my imagination. As soon as Spanish ended, gym class began. We had to play volleyball. Hate volleyball with a passion. If I hit the ball, I always end up hitting someone in the back of the head. I would stand there and apologize in response. I got changed out of my gym uniform and left the gym. I saw Bella waiting for me as we walked towards the parking lot, talking about the bookstore in Port Angeles.

"You mind if we use your car? I don't think my truck would make it," Bella suggested. "Sure. That would be fine with me. I'll meet you at your place." "Sounds like a plan," she replies. I nodded my head. I told her I had to return home and change before heading over, which she responded to with a nod. We parted ways as I headed to my car, which was 3 cars away from her truck. Grabbing my key to press the unlock button, I heard an odd sound. A familiar sound.

SCREECH

I turn toward the sound, and my eyes widen in shock. There it was. A dark blue van skidded out of control on the ice road in the parking lot. You could hear the brakes squealing loudly. But the thing I noticed about the van was its direction toward Bella. What do I do? Am I just willing to stand here and do nothing while my friend gets hurt? I dropped my bag and keys instantly and ran straight toward her. Please. Not my friend. Anyone but her. However, as I heard the shattered crunch of the van hitting the truck, I thought I was too late. I continued my pace as I went around her truck.

'God, please be okay. Please be alright.'

As I reached the passenger side, I worried about her being squished between the van and the truck. I was also worried about her bleeding out an arm or leg or being unconscious. She was lying on the pavement as she slowly sat up, but Edward was sitting there.... by Bella. His hands were on each side of the truck and the van. How did he get there so fast? He was four cars away, and yet he was there to prevent it as the accident occurred. A hundred, maybe a thousand questions were running through my head, but all I could think about was Bella as I kneeled beside her.

"Bella. Bella. Are you okay? Are you hurt?" I asked, worried. "I'm fine," she said, nodding her head as she tried to sit up. I noticed that Edward held her against him by her side. Edward warned Bella, "I think you hit your head pretty hard. Be careful." I examined her as she questioned him, and she didn't look injured, but as I touched her head, she hissed in pain. She has a bump on her head. There was something that caught my attention from the corner of my eye...

The dent on her truck. Strange; that wasn't there before.

but the van was in worse condition. Finally, Bella could sit up as Edward let go of her waist. I could hear the siren in the distance. It took six EMTs and two teachers to move the van far away from us to get the stretcher in. Of course, Chief Swan arrived before they could get her away safely, but she reassured him that she was fine. Edward insists that he didn't need a stretcher and that Bella needed one because she might have a concussion. As soon as she was loaded into the ambulance and Edward rode in the front, I saw them drive off. I sped off to my car, got in, started up, and followed them. All I could think about was how Edward got there so fast. I just couldn't shake the feeling that there was really something off about him.

I couldn't shake the feeling that there was something off about him—something not quite human. As I weaved through traffic, my mind raced with questions. How did he manage to reach Bella so quickly? And why did he seem so protective of her? The pieces of the puzzle didn't quite fit together, and I was determined to find out the truth. As I followed the ambulance to the hospital, my curiosity only grew stronger. Little did I know, this was just the beginning of a series of events that would change everything I thought I knew.

[haganezukawaifu]

Angels of Music (Teaser)

Just a little wip of my Twilight x Phantom of Opera x Rosa Dolce story because the Volturi being Phantom has been living in my head rent-free.

Has anyone told you the tale? A tale of love, passion, obsession, and secrets. A story of a girl full of innocence and beauty and three mysterious figures hidden in the shadow of the opera house. You have not heard of the tale. Well...

Then prepare yourself for a captivating journey, as you will witness a haunting romance that transcends time, leaving you spellbound and yearning for more.