Claiming a Swan

Chapter Four

Chapter Four
Now...

The next afternoon, while Bella was filing away papers on the up and coming authors, her assistant alerted her that she had an unscheduled appointment. Bella looked through the planner that was laid out on her desk and came up with questions. Who could it possibly be..., then her heart sank at the thought.

It couldn't possibly be Carlisle? Bella's premeditated thoughts were struck true when Carlisle came sauntering in. His presence was like a cool salve, but like an ironed sword ready to do battle. His overall presence was welcomed, but hesitant.

"Carlisle, why are you here?" Bella asks.

Bella had no time, with an unscheduled appointment. She had many things to get done. She was a busy woman. But nonetheless, Bella gave Carlisle the floor on what he came by to tell her.
She looked into his eyes - yellow amber, with a hint of red... he's different. Then she thought back and delved deep in her mind, the dream She had the night prior. Bella shook her head.

She was not thinking of that. And she was for sure not thinking of Carlisle in any kind of manner.

"I've come to ask you to talk. To come over to my place and have dinner."

"Why? Like I said before Carlisle, I'm different. And I don't have time. I'm not the same as I was, and I have moved on. And I suggest you do the same." Bella didn't know what she felt when she said those words. They were sharp. Honest. And cruel...

He was beside her in the time it takes for a pencil to drop - the blinds had been shut close, the noise of them going back and forth mixed with my intake of breath. Carlisle stood beside her, "Isabella, I will ask again. Dinner?"

She saw the undeniable annoyance in his eyes, but Bella could see he was trying to be understanding and it pained him.

"Fine. But dinner at my place."

Bella gave in way too easily. He smirked, and it sent her cheeks blushing. His finger lifted her jaw. "It's been too long, Bella. I am very much looking forward to our talk tonight."

His eyes switch to hers, and down lower to her lips and neck. Till he removed himself and saw himself out. And Bella could think was- , what the hell!

***

After clocking out for the day, Aster came by. Greeting Bella with a peck on the lips.

"How was your day, Bella?" Where did I even start? Bella thought.

"It ran quite long." Bella said with tiredness.

"Oh, I'm sorry to hear. Well how about I make it up to you, tonight?"

Bella realized that she had plans with Carlisle. "Actually, an old friend visited me today, and he asked to grab food, though I told him he could come over."

"Oh, well another time then?"

Bella nodded her head in answer.
She felt horrible. Denying Aster anything felt like a bullet to the heart. But she needed to clear things between her and Carlisle. This seemed like the perfect time. Better to get it over with quickly, then let it fester and ruin the one thing she held with honor. Because Aster meant everything. At least, that's what she told herself. Even though a sliver of doubt chorded through her heart.

"I'll see if Cole wants to get some drinks." Aster said casually. "After drinks I'll be home." Bella nodded and smiled. Aster hugged and gave her a kiss to send her on her way.

Why did she feel guilty?

She hadn't even done anything. But her heart was already pounding the gavel of her fate.