𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑽𝒐𝒍𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒊 𝑸𝒖𝒆𝒆𝒏

𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝟐

If Aro were still human, his neck would've snapped with how fast he faced Carlisle again, seeking an explanation from his old friend. "Alice had a vision before you came to visit us; that's where we found out who your true mate is." He moves his gaze over all of my mates' faces. I see their faces soften for a second before they go back to their harsh facade. The weight of this revelation lingered in the air, leaving behind an unspoken sense of introspection and contemplation amongst the seven vampires. The meaning of a true mate discovery, tantalizingly hinted at by Carlisle, held a significance that surpassed human understanding, demanding further clarity.

"Lies! You're just trying to save your skin." Caius snarls; infuriated, he opens his mouth to unleash a torrent of words in response to the situation at hand. His face contorted with rage, ready to challenge anyone who dared to cross his path. However, my raven-haired mate calmly raises his hand, instantly silencing him. All eyes are on Marcus, who walks over to Aro, his hand eager to show the true bond between all eight of us.

This is it, I think to myself as Aro's hands encircle Marcus'. Each passing moment feels like an eternity as Aro takes his time observing the bonds. Marcus, unaffected by the grip that temporarily bound him to Aro, releases himself from the touch with an almost imperceptible movement, resuming his previous place among his brethren. "I want to meet her," Aro announces. Carlisle turns towards where I'm located, giving everyone the signal we previously planned.

Drawing in a deep breath, I could feel my heart pounding against my ribcage, a reminder of the adrenaline coursing through my veins. I step forward and reveal myself to them. My breath catches in my throat as I slowly make eye contact with each one of them.

Their eyes, a fascinating shade of crimson, mirrored the passion that resonated within their core. Though the majority of vampires displayed the same colored eyes, I couldn't help but notice the stark contrast these particular vampires have. They were unlike any others I had ever encountered. Their penetrating gazes held an indescribable power that simply enthralled me. It was as though their eyes were looking not only at my physical form but directly into the depths of my soul. A sense of being cherished, even adored, radiated from their unwavering stares. The Cullens were right.

As I emerged from my dazed state, I began walking toward the center of the clearing. Each step carried a mix of excitement and worry as I thought of the encounter that awaited me. Finally, I came to a stop just beside Carlisle, feeling a sense of assurance in his presence. Before me was Aro, the renowned figure who held authority over the vampire world. As if to accentuate his kingly appearance, he wore a gleaming golden hair clip, which held his hair in place. He towered over me; actually, all of my mates did, except for my lovely Jane.

"Mia Regina" Aro's voice is a soft sighing as his now gloved hand slowly reaches for mine and draws it towards his lips, his cold breath caressing my skin as he planted a delicate kiss that seemed to electrify my every sense. His face lit up with a genuine smile. I had the desire to step closer to him and touch his cheek to see if it truly was as velvety soft as it seemed. My heart fluttered in my chest as a blush crept across my cheeks, a crimson bloom betraying the turmoil of feelings swirling within me. The thought of indulging in such intimacy with Aro caused my heart to beat even faster than it already did. I'm so sorry, Edward.

Resolute, Aro persisted in his gentle demeanor, his voice dripping with sincerity and fondness as he continued, "It is a pleasure to finally meet you, my sweet. My name is—"

"Aro Volturi," I reply for him. Warmth washed over me as his smile widened, illuminating his face with obvious charm. Unable to resist the infectious joy, a smile graced my lips in response.