Isabel

Chapter 10

Previously on Isabel....

Isabel, wearing a smile of her own, responded, "I am certain you will, as Henry and Dean share a strong bond of friendship and often engage in playful pranks, much to the amusement of those around them

Chapter 10

It has been a few days since Isabel, the enigmatic woman, finally unveiled her true identity to those around her. The atmosphere has since settled, bringing a sense of tranquility to the mansion that Isabel's clan now calls home. This grand abode was acquired by Isabel herself several years prior, during her time spent in Washington. However, despite the temporary calm, Isabel couldn't help but feel a growing unease as the impending arrival of Henry, Irene, and their daughters drew nearer.

As Belle went about her day, she suddenly heard a distinct knock resonating through the halls of her new residence. Instantly recognizing that it couldn't possibly be Henry, Irene, and the girls, as they were still approximately an hour away, she made her way to the front door. With a mixture of curiosity and caution, she cautiously swung the door open, revealing none other than Edward Cullen, the enigmatic figure who had become a familiar presence in her life.

"Edward," she greeted him with polite formality, her voice laced with a hint of intrigue.

"Bellas," he responded, his tone carrying a sense of familiarity.

"I have told you on multiple occasions, it is not Bella. It is Isabel," she replied, her words dripping with a coldness that mirrored the frosty air surrounding them.

"Isabel," Edward said, his voice filled with a mix of hope and uncertainty, "may we talk?"

Curiosity piqued, Isabel turned to face him. "What do you mean, Edward?" she responded, her tone laced with intrigue.

Edward hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "Us?" he responded, his voice barely above a whisper.

A calm expression settled on Isabel's face as she replied, "There is no 'us,' Edward. You were dating a young lady who doesn't know you as the real Isabella Swan. She hasn't been here in Forks since she was 10."

Edward's eyes widened in disbelief. "Isabella Swan really exists?" he replied, his voice tinged with astonishment.

A small smile played on Isabel's lips as she nodded. "Sure, she's family. I'm technically bound to Charlie and Isabella Swan by my Legal Father, Giuseppe's son, Lorenzo."

Edward stood there, his mind reeling with this newfound information.

Isabel couldn't help but chuckle. "Voiceless Edward Anthony Masen-Cullen is a first," she answered, her laughter filling the air.

Edward's voice barely audible, he asked, "Is she my companion?"

Isabel shook her head gently. "Um... no," she said, her voice tinged with sympathy.

"Well, who is?" Edward inquired, his eyes searching Isabel's face for answers.

A knowing look crossed Isabel's eyes as she replied truthfully, "You haven't met her yet, but I know her."

Desperation filled Edward's voice as he implored, "Who is she, please tell me, Isabel."

Isabel took a deep breath before answering. "Okay, Edward, stop begging me. Her name is Keiko Benton. She's Chinese-American, and I turned her  in 1900," she answered honestly.

"Keiko," Edward responded, his voice filled with a mix of surprise and anticipation.

"Yes," she replied, her voice tinged with a hint of excitement. "She is currently in China, her home country, exploring the vibrant landscapes and immersing herself in the rich culture."