“Ah, Bella dearest, finally you’ve awakened,” I watched the once-thrashing girl flutter her eyelids, then glance around in confusion. Her eyes were a terrifying shade of red, brighter and more intense than blood.

She propped herself up on one arm as she took in her surroundings: my bed chamber, though indeed I had no need for sleep. Part of the charade, just in case… She was sitting up now in the oversized bed, and she watched me with unguarded eyes as I hastened to open the curtains. I had ordered that no servants bother me with their presence after Bella had been lodged in my chambers.

“Why are you calling me ‘Bella’?” she questioned, her voice musical, but not as high-pitched as most vampire women. The faint glow of twilight bounced off her icy pale skin in odd ways, and made her eyes glow slightly.

She motioned to quit the bed; she threw the sheets off and twisted her frame till her bare feet touched the floor.

“Perhaps you should remain in bed whilst I explain, love,” I said hurriedly, rushing over to her side and sitting down so I was blocking the light. I didn’t want her to see her new appearance quite yet; it was much different than she would remember.

“Where did I get these clothes? Why is everything so…defined?” she asked, and I mentally cursed myself. Of course she would have noticed that change in her appearance, and in her senses as well. Instead of the cream peasant’s dress she now wore a satin nightgown with large, puffy sleeves and lace trim. “Who are you? Why am I here?” Her questions became more frantic as she stared at me. Not in fear or anger, but in confusion.

Finally it clicked: she’d lost her memory. Because by now, I was certain, she would have kicked and yelled and ran – and been able to do so, due to her strength – and I would have run after her futilely. I had to stop calling her Bella, I realized sadly. Such a shame, since it suited her so well; she was very beautiful. I would have to call her something…

“Excuse me sir, what is your name? I demand to know it.”

“I’m terribly sorry miss, I was preoccupied.” I smiled at her, and she returned the gesture meekly. “My name is Edward Cullen. What is your name, darling?” I didn’t bother with the pretenses and titles to mine; they would only intimidate her…