Having sleepovers with Alice was great. Charlie didn’t know, but I really spent all night with Edward. I couldn’t wait to be married.

I was sitting on his lap on the couch, listening to music. His head was back, his eyes closed, and he looked perfect. I was wrapped in his arms, my head against his chest. Unable to keep still, I traced random patterns along his lower arm. The music was soft jazz, at least that’s what it was an hour ago when we took up our usual positions. Spending so much time with Alice was exhausting.

It was about 7:30 and I had already eaten. We had three hours until Edward would insist I sleep. The wedding was two days away and I think I had suffered plenty at the hands of Alice. There was no way I was sleeping tonight without getting something.

“Edward?” I asked when the song finished.

“Hmmm?”

I wasn’t too sure what to say, so I just got up, walked over to the bed, and curled up on the end. Edward watched me, and when I sat down, he smiled and followed.

My heart was beating faster, and I wasn’t sure how far I would get at this rate.

“We’re getting married in two days and…” I was embarrassed to continue. Edward looked at me curiously, patiently waiting for me to continue. Avoiding his gaze, I looked down at my ring. I wasn’t sure, but I thought I saw a smile flash across his face.

“Well, I just… wanted to remind you of your promise.” I finally managed. Too embarrassed to see his reaction, I buried my face in my hands.

The room was silent for several long moments, but I didn’t dare risk a peek. I felt his cold hand touch my cheek and turn my face to meet his. I looked into his beautiful topaz eyes and my heart began to sputter erratically.

“I haven’t forgotten. We will try.” His soft voice awed me, and I began to have trouble thinking.

“How do you know?” I whispered.

He looked astonished at my question. It was obvious he wasn’t sure how to respond. I had to find the words, this was my chance.

“I trust you, Edward, completely. I know you won’t hurt me, but you need convincing. Try here, now. I won’t be disappointed, but I want to try a little more.” I was sure he would say no, but he looked like he was seriously considering everything I said. To top it off, I used the one weapon I was almost sure would work. “Please?” I whispered.

I watched his face very carefully this time. He was silently arguing to himself.

After a minute, he looked up and touched the scarlet blush on my cheek.

Without a word, he took me in his arms and repositioned our bodies so he was laying on top of me on the bed. While doing so, I thought I heard him mumble something about dangerous.

His body was over me, like a lion standing over its prey – protecting it. With his slightly darker eyes, he looked at me studying my face.

I looked back, dazzled, as I so often was. My cheeks flushed darker and my heart began banging in my chest. I was unable to move my body, and I was barely aware of my erratic breathing. All that mattered was that I was going to get what I wanted, or very close.