Destined ~ Volturi Kings ~ (A Twilight Fanfic)

Chapter Nineteen

*Addi's POV*

As we settled into the cozy, private area of Bella Italia, the soft glow of candlelight illuminated the table, casting a warm ambiance around us. The restaurant buzzed with the sounds of laughter and clinking glasses, but within our secluded corner, it felt as if we had entered a world of our own. Aro, Marcus, and Caius, radiated an elegant aura, with their presence both comforting and intriguing to me. I could still feel my excitement mingling with a hint of nervousness, with a fluttering sensation in my stomach as we prepared to enjoy our evening together.

Once the waiter approached, I had made my decision for a simple refreshment. "I'll just have a glass of water, please." I said with a smile. The Kings, on the other hand, ordered a fine bottle of wine, their refined tastes evident even in their selections. I watched with interest as the waiter noted their order, also aware that the Guard—a few tables away—mirrored the Kings' choice, also opting for wine to maintain the charade.

As the waiter departed, I couldn't help but chuckle lightly, breaking the ice in the conversation. "It must be quite the challenge for you all to act like humans, wasting money on something you can't even drink. I mean, what's the point of ordering wine if you can't enjoy it?" I remarked, with my tone playful yet curious.
Aro leaned back in his chair, with a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Ah, but it's all part of the game, isn't it? We may not partake in the wine, but we find pleasure in the experience of being among humans, even if it is fleeting. It allows us to blend in, to observe and enjoy this world from a distance." He replied, as his eyes were twinkling with amusement.

Marcus nodded in agreement. "Indeed, it doesn't bother us at all. It's rare that we venture out into the human world, so when we do, we embrace it fully. The cost of a bottle of wine is negligible compared to the enjoyment of the evening." He said, with his voice calm and reflective, as his gaze swept over the restaurant, taking in the atmosphere. "Besides, it allows us to maintain the façade that keeps us hidden in plain sight. For centuries, we've learned that blending in is crucial to our existence. A glass of wine can deflect suspicion and create a sense of normalcy, even if it's just a pretense." Marcus continued, sounding thoughtful.

Caius, who had been listening intently, interjected with a hint of mischief in his voice. "And it offers us the opportunity to experience the ambiance, the laughter, and the essence of human connection—albeit from a distance. We may not taste the wine, but we can savor the atmosphere." He said, as he leaned back slightly, with a smirk playing at the corner of his lips. "Besides, it is quite entertaining to watch the reactions of those around us when they see us enjoying ourselves. It creates an air of intrigue." He added.

I couldn't help but smile at their words, feeling a rush of admiration for their ability to navigate the complexities of their existence. "I suppose that makes sense. You've lived for so long; it must be fascinating to observe human behaviors and interactions from your unique perspective." I replied, as my curiosity piqued.
Aro nodded enthusiastically as he responded, "Exactly! Each gathering is an opportunity for us to learn and explore. Humanity is a tapestry of emotions, connections, and experiences. Even if we cannot partake in everything, we can still appreciate the beauty of these moments." His gaze softened as he looked at me, with the intensity in his expression unmistakable. "And tonight, we have the pleasure of sharing this experience with you, Addi." He added.

Just then, the waiter returned with our drinks. He placed a beautifully crafted glass of water in front of me and poured the wine for the Kings, who lifted their glasses in a silent toast. I watched as the deep red liquid swirled within the crystal glass, with its aroma wafting toward me. "To new experiences." Aro said, raising his glass, his voice filled with genuine enthusiasm. I raised my glass of water, feeling a sense of camaraderie. "To new experiences." I echoed, with my heart swelling with warmth. I took a sip, savoring the cool crispness of my water while the Kings elegantly pretended to indulge in their wine. The evening was just beginning and I could sense that this was a night I would remember for a long time.