𝟎𝟏𝟎. 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐒𝐇 𝐓𝐑𝐔𝐓𝐇

The afternoon light filtered through the windows of Forks High School, casting a golden glow on the bustling hallway. Delilah Swan, juggling an armful of books while trying to shove others into her already-overloaded locker, sighed as Braelyn Quinn animatedly recounted her latest art project.

"I'm telling you, Delilah, if you gave it a chance, you'd love watercolor! It's so calming. Unlike calculus, which is—"

"Brae, I love you, but unless you're about to invent a way for me to grow another hand, I can't do watercolor and calculus," Delilah teased, her voice light despite the struggle with her books.

Before Braelyn could respond, a familiar voice rumbled close to Delilah's ear. "Need some help, princess?"

Startled, Delilah froze as a strong arm effortlessly scooped the books from her grasp. Turning her head slightly, she was greeted by the smirk of Evander Denali. His golden eyes sparkled with mischief as he leaned in, his breath warm against her ear.

"You're going to throw out your back carrying all of this," he murmured teasingly, pressing a soft kiss just behind her ear.

Delilah's face flushed an unmistakable crimson, and Braelyn coughed pointedly to stifle a laugh. Around them, the hallway seemed to pause. Several students slowed their steps, watching with wide eyes as the ever-composed Delilah Swan melted under Evander's touch.

"Evan," she hissed, though her tone lacked any real bite. Tilting her head back, she leaned against his shoulder, her lips curving into a shy smile.

He grinned, dipping down to press a gentle kiss to her lips. The brief contact made her heart race, and the hallway seemed to buzz with whispers. He turned back to her locker, tucking the books inside with ease, only keeping her English and biology textbooks for their remaining classes.

As Evander shut the locker with a decisive click, Jessica Stanley walked by, flanked by Mike Newton. Jessica's sharp eyes lingered on Evander, a flicker of something unmistakable—jealousy—crossing her face.

Delilah noticed immediately. She followed Jessica's gaze and couldn't help but grin when Evander, without even looking in Jessica's direction, rolled his eyes.

"She's staring again," Delilah muttered, her voice just loud enough for him to hear.

"Let her," Evander replied nonchalantly, his arm slipping around her waist. He pulled her closer, his protective instincts kicking in as he brushed his lips against her cheek.

Jessica huffed audibly, her cheeks reddening as she caught sight of Delilah's smug expression. Mike, oblivious to the tension, rambled on about some fishing trip, leaving Jessica to glare daggers at the happy couple.

"Jealousy isn't a good look on her," Evander commented, his voice low enough that only Delilah could hear.

"She's just mad because you're not fawning over her like Mike is," Delilah quipped, her tone light but teasing.

Evander chuckled, the sound rich and warm. "I don't have time for anyone else. My hands are full with you, my love."

Delilah laughed, leaning into him as they began to walk toward their next class.

With only two classes left, Delilah felt the anticipation bubbling beneath the surface. Tonight was a big night—Bella would be officially introduced to the Cullen family.

Still, the weight of the situation wasn't lost on her. Evander's hand tightened slightly around her waist, grounding her. He seemed lost in thought as they walked, his expression flickering between calm and concern.

"Hey," she said softly, tapping the arm around her with her fingers to pull him back to the present.

He glanced down, his golden eyes meeting hers, and a grin spread across his face. The sparkle in her blue eyes never failed to warm his heart, and the corners of his mouth lifted automatically.

"Sorry," he said, brushing a stray strand of her hair behind her ear. "I was just thinking."

"About tonight?"

He nodded. "It'll be fine, but...you know how Edward is with Bella."

Evander chuckled, he stopped in the middle of the hallway, pulling her gently to the side to avoid the stream of students. Cupping her face with one hand, he pressed a soft kiss to her forehead.

"You always know how to make me feel better," he murmured.

"And you always know how to make me blush," she teased, her cheeks tinged pink once again.

Delilah Swan brushed her fingers through Evander Denali's soft hair, smoothing the tousled strands as he leaned into her touch. With a kiss pressed tenderly to his jawline, she sighed, stepping away to head into class. Behind her, she heard Evander's low chuckle, his footsteps following close behind.

Sliding into her usual seat by the window, Delilah had just set down her copy of Hamlet when her chair was yanked to the side slightly. She gasped, a laugh escaping her as she turned to glare at the culprit.

Evander sat next to her, his golden eyes sparkling with mischief as he pulled her chair closer to his. "You're too far away," he murmured, a playful pout tugging at his lips.

"Evander," she scolded softly, though her smile betrayed her amusement. "We're in class."

"Doesn't mean I can't be close to my girl," he said, his tone low and teasing.

Delilah felt her cheeks heat as she flipped open her book, determined to focus on Miss Matthews' lecture. But sitting beside someone like Evander Denali—devastatingly handsome and endlessly charming—made concentrating nearly impossible. Especially when he had no intention of making it easy for her.

As the class began discussing the intricacies of Hamlet, Delilah unconsciously leaned toward Evander, drawn to his presence like a magnet. She tapped her pen against the edge of her book, attempting to take notes, but the sensation of his fingers lightly tracing circles on her thigh shattered her focus.

Her breath hitched, and she shot him a warning glance from the corner of her eye. Evander didn't even try to hide his grin. The curve of his lips was infuriatingly smug, as if he knew exactly how much he was affecting her.

"Stop it," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

"Stop what?" he whispered back, his tone dripping with mock innocence.

"You know what," she hissed, grabbing his hand and moving it firmly away from her leg.

Instead of looking reprimanded, Evander only seemed more amused. His smirk widened, the golden flecks in his eyes shimmering with mischief.

"Alright, I'll stop," he said, holding his hands up in mock surrender. But as Delilah turned back to her book, she could feel his gaze lingering on her, warm and unrelenting.

The lecture droned on, Miss Matthews pacing the front of the room as she detailed the tragic end of the Danish prince. Delilah tried her best to focus, scribbling notes in her elegant handwriting. But just as she started to regain her composure, Evander's hand returned to her thigh, creeping upward with agonizing slowness.

Her fingers tightened around her pen, and she fixed him with another sharp side-eye. "Evander," she whispered through gritted teeth.

He didn't respond, his face the picture of feigned innocence as he leaned back in his chair, clearly enjoying her reaction.

"Miss Swan?"

Delilah's heart sank as her name echoed across the classroom. She snapped her head toward Miss Matthews, who stood with her arms crossed, clearly expecting an answer.

"Y-yes?" Delilah stammered, her cheeks flushing.

Miss Matthews raised an eyebrow. "Since you seem particularly engaged in something, perhaps you can explain how Hamlet's contemplation of mortality contributes to the play's final act."

The room fell silent. All eyes were on her. Braelyn, sitting two rows over, covered her mouth to muffle a laugh, while Rhyland didn't even try to hide his grin.

Delilah cleared her throat, her mind scrambling for an answer. "Well, um... Hamlet's thoughts on mortality highlight his indecision and fear of the unknown, which... uh, ultimately prevent him from acting until it's too late."

Miss Matthews nodded, looking somewhat satisfied. "Good. Pay closer attention, Miss Swan."

"Yes, ma'am," Delilah murmured, sinking into her seat.

Beside her, Evander was biting back a laugh. "Nicely done," he whispered, his voice laced with amusement.

She turned to him, her blue eyes narrowing. "You're the worst," she muttered, though her lips twitched into a reluctant smile.

Despite her best efforts to stay focused, Evander's antics didn't stop. He leaned closer, his lips brushing against her ear as he murmured, "You're beautiful when you're flustered."

Her cheeks flamed. She swatted at his arm, whispering, "Do you want me to get in trouble again?"

"Maybe," he replied, his grin devilish. "But you're so cute when you're mad."

She huffed, crossing her arms in mock annoyance. "You're lucky I like you."

His expression softened, his teasing momentarily replaced by something more tender. "I know I am," he said quietly, his fingers lacing through hers under the desk.

For the rest of the class, he behaved—mostly. And though Delilah pretended to be annoyed, she couldn't deny the warmth that spread through her chest at his touch. Evander Denali was a menace, but he was her menace.

As Miss Matthews wrapped up her lecture and delivered the dreaded assignment—a three-page front-and-back report on Hamlet—Delilah exhaled slowly, her attempt at composure betrayed only by the slight tremor in her breath. Evander's fingers had just grazed her inner thigh, sending shivers down her spine despite her desperate attempt to stay focused.

When Miss Matthews exited the classroom, the door closing behind her, Delilah snapped her head toward Evander. Her blue eyes were wide with exasperation as she leaned closer, her voice dropping to a furious whisper.

"Evander Denali," she hissed, her tone sharp but quiet enough to avoid catching their classmates' attention. "You can't keep doing that! We're in public! What if someone noticed? What if Miss Matthews noticed?"

Evander didn't appear remotely chastened. Instead, he leaned back in his chair, his signature smirk firmly in place as he watched her ramble. Her cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink with every word.

"You were perfect," he said smoothly, cutting through her tirade. "Answered like the brilliant valedictorian you are."

"That's not the point!" Delilah shot back, her whisper growing sharper.

His golden eyes danced with amusement, but he decided to lean into her frustration. With one swift motion, he leaned forward, their faces so close their noses almost touched. His minty breath fanned her cheek, and Delilah felt her resolve falter, her indignation melting into nervous anticipation.

"You're really cute when you're mad," he murmured, his lips hovering just a breath away from hers.

Her breath hitched, and she froze, her heart thundering in her chest. Evander's smirk widened as he closed the minuscule gap—not with a kiss but with a teasing whisper against her ear.

"You'll just have to wait until after school, sweetheart," he said, his voice dropping to a low, sinful octave that sent a shiver down her spine.

Delilah shoved him lightly, her hand pressed against his chest as she rolled her eyes. "You're impossible," she muttered, her tone caught somewhere between exasperation and adoration.

Evander chuckled, clearly relishing her reaction. "You're the one who fell for me," he teased, leaning back with the confidence of someone who knew he had the upper hand.

Crossing her arms, Delilah spun in her seat, determined to focus on her paper. She propped her elbow on the desk and rested her cheek against her hand, effectively shielding her face—and the telltale blush spreading across it—from her mischievous boyfriend.

Evander leaned forward slightly, his arm brushing hers as he tried to catch her eye. "My love," he sing-songed softly.

She didn't budge.

"Delilah ," he tried again, his tone playfully insistent.

Still, she ignored him, her pen tapping against her notebook as though she were deep in thought.

Evander let out a low chuckle, leaning closer. "Come on, princess. Don't be mad."

"I'm not mad," she replied curtly, though her voice was tinged with amusement.

"You're pouting."

"I am not."

"Yes, you are."

Delilah turned her head slightly, her blue eyes narrowing at him. "Would you please let me focus?"

Evander tilted his head, pretending to consider it. "Hmm... no."

"Evander."

"Sweetheart"

She huffed, the corners of her lips twitching upward despite her best efforts to remain serious. "You're incorrigible."

"And you're gorgeous," he countered smoothly, his grin widening when she finally gave in and let out a reluctant laugh.

Though Evander seemed content to leave her alone—for now—Delilah could feel his gaze on her, warm and unrelenting. She did her best to focus on her assignment, scribbling down ideas for her report on Hamlet's existential musings, but the weight of his presence was a distraction she couldn't shake.

Rhyland, seated in the row next to them, leaned over to Braelyn. "Think Miss Matthews noticed anything?" he whispered, smirking.

Braelyn snickered softly. "If she did, she's got a better poker face than me."

Delilah heard them and shot a quick glare in their direction. "Not helping," she muttered under her breath.

Evander leaned toward her again, his voice low enough for only her to hear. "Relax, princess. No one's caught us yet."

"Yet," she echoed, giving him a pointed look. "That's the key word."

━━━━━━━━━━━

The sound of unrestrained laughter echoed through the Cullen mansion as the front door swung open, revealing Delilah Swan and Braelyn Quinn stumbling in, their giggles filling the grand entryway. Esme Cullen, standing by the staircase with Carlisle, couldn't help the warm smile that spread across her face at the joyous sound. It was a rare kind of happiness that had only recently begun to permeate the house—a happiness that came with Delilah's presence.

Carlisle had ended his shift at the hospital early to prepare for the evening. Tonight was significant: Bella Swan, Delilah's cousin, would be formally introduced to the family. Yet, as he listened to the bubbly laughter cascading from Delilah and Braelyn, he found himself pausing, soaking in the lightheartedness that was becoming more common in their home.

"Braelyn!" Delilah laughed, clutching her side as her friend nearly tripped on the bottom step, catching herself at the last moment. "You're like Bambi on ice!"

"I'm fine!" Braelyn said through her laughter, though her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

"Barely," Delilah teased, doubling over with giggles.

Behind them, Evander and Rhyland entered far more composed, though their amused expressions betrayed their enjoyment of the scene. Evander's golden eyes locked onto Delilah, and his lips curved into an affectionate smile. Her joy was contagious, and he found himself chuckling softly as he watched her.

"You're both a hazard," Rhyland teased as he closed the door behind them.

Delilah's eyes lit up as she spotted Esme and skipped over to her, practically throwing herself into the matriarch's arms. "Esme!" she greeted, pressing a kiss to Esme's cool cheek.

Esme beamed, cradling Delilah's face gently in her hands as if she were her own daughter. "It's always so wonderful to see you, honey," she said warmly, her voice soft and full of affection.

Delilah grinned. "I missed you," she said sincerely before stepping aside so Braelyn could greet Esme as well.

Braelyn bounded over with unrestrained enthusiasm. "Hi, Mrs. Cullen!"

Esme chuckled, wrapping Braelyn in a motherly hug. "It's Esme, dear. How many times do I have to remind you?"

Meanwhile, Delilah turned her attention to Carlisle, who was standing nearby with his arms crossed in an endearingly fatherly way. She walked over and teasingly called out, "Doctor Cullen," her voice lilting playfully.

Carlisle's lips twitched into a smile as he opened his arms, pulling her into a comforting embrace. "Delilah," he greeted fondly, patting her back lightly. "How's my favorite Swan?"

"I'm the only Swan," she quipped playfully knowing full well that wasn't true, returning the hug with ease.

Carlisle chuckled. "Still my favorite."

As they pulled apart, Carlisle began sharing a story about a recent patient—carefully omitting any identifying details, of course. Delilah listened intently, her genuine curiosity and respect for him shining in her expression. Braelyn, meanwhile, had drifted off to admire the Cullen home's art collection, her eyes wide as she took in the stunning paintings that adorned the walls.

Out of the corner of her eye, Delilah caught movement as Alice and Jasper bounded down the stairs together. Alice was a whirlwind of energy, her pixie-like figure practically glowing with excitement as she reached Delilah first.

"Delilah!" Alice exclaimed, pulling her into a tight hug. "I have so many ideas for your prom dress. You have to come with me tomorrow so we can finalize everything. Prom
Is literally this weekend!"

Delilah laughed, hugging Alice back. "Of course, Alice. I wouldn't trust anyone else with it."

"Good answer," Alice said with a wink before bouncing over to Braelyn to include her in the conversation.

Jasper lingered a moment longer, his golden eyes soft as he looked at Delilah. "Little sister," he greeted with a nod, his Southern drawl adding warmth to the title.

Delilah grinned and placed a quick kiss on his cheek. "Major Whitlock," she teased back, using his old title with a playful sparkle in her eyes.

Jasper chuckled, shaking his head. Though he didn't often express it openly, he was grateful for Delilah. Her presence was a grounding force for him, a source of light he hadn't known he needed until she arrived.

Finally, Delilah turned to Evander, who had been watching her with quiet admiration. She skipped over to him, and he welcomed her into his arms, wrapping them securely around her waist. She looked up at him, her blue eyes sparkling with joy.

"You're staring," she teased softly.

"Can you blame me?" he replied, his voice low and full of affection.

Delilah blushed, leaning her forehead against his chest. "You're impossible."

"And you're perfect," he countered, pressing a kiss to her temple.

As they stood there, wrapped up in each other, the Cullen house felt more alive than it had in years. The laughter, the teasing, and the bonds they all shared were a testament to how much had changed since Delilah Swan had entered their lives.

Evander's room was dimly lit, the soft glow of the evening light streaming through the large windows casting a warm hue across the space. As the door clicked shut behind them, Delilah barely had time to catch her breath before she was playfully tossed onto the plush bed, her laughter ringing out like a melody. She landed softly, her hair splayed across the pillows, her cheeks flushed with amusement and affection.

"Evan!" she exclaimed between giggles, swatting at him as he crawled onto the bed with the grace of a predator but the warmth of a lover. His smirk was mischievous as he hovered over her, his golden eyes dancing with humor and something deeper, something that made her heart race.

"What?" he teased, his voice a low rumble that sent shivers down her spine. "I thought you liked a little fun."

Leaning down, he nuzzled her neck, his cool lips brushing against her skin. The feather-light kiss he placed on her pulse made her shiver involuntarily, her breath hitching. She wrapped her arms around his waist instinctively, pulling him closer. His scent—earthy and clean with a hint of something uniquely him—filled her senses, grounding her and thrilling her all at once.

"Homework," she murmured weakly, her voice barely above a whisper as his lips ghosted over her jawline. "We're supposed to be doing homework."

"Homework can wait," he mumbled against her skin, his voice low and teasing. "You're far more interesting."

Her soft laugh was cut short when his lips found hers, pressing into a kiss so passionate it made her toes curl. Her arms wound around his neck, fingers tangling in his soft hair as he deepened the kiss. The coolness of his touch was a stark contrast to the warmth pooling in her chest, a sensation that left her breathless.

When his hand trailed up her side, slipping beneath her shirt, she felt a shiver of goosebumps rise on her skin. The sensation of his cool fingertips grazing her love handles made her gasp softly, breaking the kiss for just a moment. His grin was utterly disarming, equal parts adoration and playful arrogance.

"Cold?" he asked, his tone laced with amusement as he squeezed her side gently, earning a playful swat to his shoulder.

"You know you are," she retorted, her cheeks flushed but her eyes sparkling with affection. Despite her words, she didn't pull away, letting him take the lead as he slowly pulled her shirt over her head.

Evander paused for a moment, his gaze lingering on her with a reverence that made her blush even deeper. His eyes traced over the delicate lace of her bra, but it wasn't just physical attraction she saw in his expression—it was love, pure and unfiltered.

"You're perfect," he murmured, his voice soft yet firm, as if stating an undeniable truth.

Her heart swelled, and she couldn't help but smile, biting her bottom lip in a shy yet playful way that made his grin widen. "You're biased," she teased, her voice light but filled with affection.

"Absolutely not," he denied, lowering his lips to hers again. The kiss was softer this time, lingering and tender, as if he wanted to savor every second of this moment.

Trailing kisses down her stomach, his lips were gentle, reverent, as he held her hands above her head with one of his own. Her back arched into him, her body responding to his touch as he kissed along the edge of her bra. The sensation was electric, but it wasn't just the physical contact—it was the love, the trust, the connection they shared that made every touch feel significant.

When he finally moved back up to meet her lips, releasing her hands in the process, she surprised him by taking control. Her lips pressed along his jawline, soft and slow, as her fingers trailed down his back. His eyes closed, and a contented grin spread across his face, his body relaxing into hers.

"You're dangerous," he whispered, his voice teasing but tinged with genuine awe. "I don't think you even realize what you do to me."

Delilah laughed softly, brushing a strand of hair away from his face. "I could say the same about you, baby."

They stayed like that for a while, wrapped up in each other, their kisses turning softer and more languid as the world outside his room faded away. There was no rush, no urgency—just the two of them, sharing a moment that was as much about love as it was about connection.

Eventually, Evander pulled back, brushing a kiss against her forehead before sitting up and pulling her into his lap. "Okay," he said, his voice light but full of affection, "homework time."

Delilah laughed, leaning back to look at him with mock disbelief. "Now you're responsible?"

He shrugged, smirking. "I figured I'd give you a break. For now."

Her playful swat to his chest only made his grin widen, and as they settled down to actually work, the warmth between them remained, a testament to the love they shared.

Evander's voice was soft as he cupped Delilah's cheek. "I really have to go hunting now, sweetheart," he murmured, though the reluctance in his tone was clear. He brushed a stray strand of hair from her face, his golden eyes tender as he gazed down at her.

Delilah pouted dramatically, wrapping her arms around his neck and leaning up to press a quick kiss to his lips. "Just one more," she whispered before kissing him again. "Okay, maybe two more," she added cheekily, giving him a third soft peck before pulling back with a satisfied smile.

Evander chuckled, shaking his head. "You're going to make me late," he teased, but his grin gave away his delight.

"As if," she replied with a playful huff, her fingers fiddling with the hem of his shirt. "Before you go, can you get me one of your hoodies? Please?" Her voice was sweet and hopeful, her wide blue eyes impossible for him to resist.

"Anything for you," he said, kissing her forehead before moving to his closet. Delilah watched him go, a small smile tugging at her lips as he rummaged through his neatly arranged clothes. He returned moments later with a dark green hoodie that smelled distinctly of him—earthy and crisp, like the forest after rain.

"Here," he said, holding it out to her.

"Thank you," she murmured, slipping her arms into the oversized hoodie and sighing at its warmth. She tugged it down over her T-shirt, her fingers brushing along the soft fabric. "Now I'll feel like you're here even when you're not."

Evander's expression softened, and he leaned in to press one last lingering kiss to her cheek. "I'll be back before you know it," he promised. With that, he moved to the railing of the upper floor and, with effortless grace, leaped down to where Rhyland and Jasper were waiting.

Delilah leaned against the railing, shaking her head with a laugh as she watched him join the others. They exchanged a few words before disappearing out the door. The house felt quieter without him, though not unpleasantly so—it was peaceful.

She lingered in his room for a bit longer, finding comfort in the faint traces of his scent that clung to the air. Pulling out her textbooks, she finished the last of her homework before heading downstairs, her socks softly padding against the floor. In the kitchen, she found Esme humming softly as she worked on a recipe, her graceful movements calming to watch.

"Need any help?" Delilah offered, setting her books down on the counter.

Esme turned to her with a warm smile. "That would be lovely, dear. Would you mind chopping the chicken for the pasta?"

"Of course," Delilah said, grabbing a cutting board and knife. She got to work, the rhythm of slicing chicken breasts helping to ground her as her mind wandered. The Cullen house always felt like a second home to her, and moments like these with Esme made her heart feel full.

The soft hum of activity in the Cullen kitchen filled the space with a comforting sense of normalcy. The smell of chicken sizzling in the pan mingled with the faint citrus scent of the cleaning spray Esme had just used on the counters. The music playing in the background—a gentle piano melody—seemed to echo the domestic tranquility of the moment.

Delilah stood by the stove, her movements steady as she carefully turned the chicken pieces with a spatula. Her lips pressed together in a thoughtful line before she glanced over at Carlisle, who was sitting nearby, reviewing some medical journals. Taking a deep breath, she asked quietly, almost a whisper, "Carlisle... do you think Evan, Jas, and Ry will be okay with Bella coming over tonight?"

Carlisle looked up from his papers, his golden eyes warm with reassurance. He set the journal aside and rose, walking over to her with his characteristic calm. Placing a comforting hand on her shoulder, he gave her a gentle smile. "They'll be fine, Delilah. I know it's natural to worry, but with you and Braelyn here for them, they'll feel more grounded. You've always been a stabilizing force for Evander, and Jasper is especially thankful for the calm you bring."

Delilah's lips curved into a soft smile at his words. "Thanks, Carlisle. That really means a lot."

He patted her back lightly before returning to his seat, and Delilah refocused on the chicken, only to catch Emmett sneaking up beside her. His hand was reaching toward the stove knob to adjust the heat.

"Don't even think about it!" Delilah swatted his hand away with the spatula, making him laugh and step back dramatically.

"Hey, just trying to help," Emmett teased, grinning. "It's not my fault I'm a natural chef."

"Oh, please," Rosalie quipped from the doorway. "Last time you tried to help, you burned water."

"Water doesn't burn!" Emmett protested, looking offended but clearly enjoying the banter.

The atmosphere was lighthearted as Delilah and Braelyn chatted about prom, the conversation drifting to potential dress styles and color schemes. The idea of a shopping trip sparked laughter and groans in equal measure from the rest of the family, though Esme seemed thrilled at the prospect.

It was just after six when the familiar sound of footsteps and the soft murmur of voices signaled the return of Evander, Rhyland, and Jasper. Delilah turned from the stove, a grin spreading across her face as her boyfriend walked through the door. Without hesitation, she crossed the room to him, wrapping her arms around his waist and tilting her head up to place a soft kiss on his jaw.

"Miss me?" Evander asked, his tone teasing, though his golden eyes were full of warmth.

"Always," Delilah replied, smiling up at him. She could feel the tension in his frame relax as he stood by the open window, his preferred spot for moments like these. The fresh air seemed to help him clear his head, and the proximity to an easy escape route gave him a sense of security.

The moment of peace was interrupted by the sound of a car pulling into the driveway. Edward and Bella had arrived. Rosalie's sharp voice cut through the soft chatter as she muttered a snide remark about "the other human," her distaste evident in her tone.

Delilah ignored the comment, focusing instead on the way Evander tensed slightly at Bella's approach. She glanced toward her sister, who had just entered with Edward, her gaze flickering briefly to Rhyland. Her attention lingered a moment too long for Evander's liking, and his hold on Delilah's waist tightened imperceptibly.

Delilah gave his side a gentle squeeze, drawing his attention back to her. "It's okay," she whispered, her soft smile doing its best to reassure him.

Evander nodded but remained quiet, his jaw tightening as Bella and Edward greeted the family. Delilah tuned out most of the conversation, her focus on the way Evander seemed to stand just a little closer to her, his protective instincts in full force. It wasn't until Alice and Jasper arrived that the tension in the room eased slightly.

Alice's cheerful energy was infectious as she practically bounced into the space, her eyes lighting up when she saw Delilah. "There's my favorite non-vampire!" she exclaimed, wrapping Delilah in a quick hug.

Jasper followed at a more measured pace, though his expression softened when his gaze landed on Delilah.

Delilah smiled at them both, feeling a bit of the weight lift from the room. She caught Evander's gaze and brushed her fingers against his, offering silent comfort.

The tension in the room was palpable, hanging heavy in the air like an oncoming storm. Carlisle, ever the peacemaker, gave Bella a kind, measured smile. "Bella," he began gently, "Evander, Jasper, and Rhyland are still adapting to our diet and learning to navigate being around humans. It's a process, and it takes time. Please understand that."

Bella nodded stiffly but cast a scrutinizing look at Delilah, her brow furrowing slightly as if questioning how Delilah could be so close to these vampires without fear. The room went eerily silent for a moment until a low growl rumbled in Evander's chest, breaking the stillness. The sound was quiet but menacing, drawing everyone's attention to him. His bright golden eyes glinted with barely restrained frustration.

"Evander," Carlisle cautioned softly, his tone firm but calm, trying to diffuse the situation before it could escalate.

Delilah, ever the soothing presence, placed a gentle hand on Evander's back, her fingers tracing soft circles. "It's okay," she murmured, her voice low and meant only for him. "Let it go."

But it wasn't okay. The calm was shattered the moment Bella's tone turned sharp. "How is it even possible for you two to be so close?" she asked, her voice dripping with incredulity. "Isn't it... dangerous?"

Edward opened his mouth to respond, but Evander's grip on Delilah's waist loosened as he stepped forward, his body taut with tension. "Don't," he said quietly, his gaze locking onto Edward's, warning him not to intervene. Carlisle's hand twitched as if to stop him, but he hesitated. Evander was a force of nature when it came to protecting his own, and no amount of reasoning would rein him in now.

Jasper, sensing the swirling emotions—a storm of irritation, protectiveness, and defensiveness—moved closer to Delilah, placing a gentle hand on her arm. His voice was calm but firm. "Stay here," he said softly, his golden eyes flicking between Evander and Bella. "Let him handle it."

Evander took another deliberate step toward Bella, his movements slow and deliberate, as if giving her time to reconsider her words. His voice dropped an octave, steady and cold like the edge of a blade. "You want to know how we're close to them?" he asked, his tone deadly calm, but the fire in his eyes betrayed the depth of his emotions.

"Evander—" Carlisle started, but Evander raised a hand to silence him, his gaze still locked on Bella.

"You want the truth?" he continued, his voice harder now. "Fine. Here it is. In our world, there's a difference between mates and blood singers. Do you even know what that means?" He didn't wait for her to respond. "A blood singer is someone whose scent draws us, tempts us, haunts us. It's a curse. It's pain. It's everything wrong wrapped up in an uncontrollable pull. But a mate?" His eyes softened for the briefest moment as they flicked to Delilah, who was standing tensely beside Jasper. "A mate is everything. They are peace, love, and reason. They are your anchor, your home. Delilah is my mate. She doesn't pain me to be close to her, Bella. She heals me."

Bella's face paled, her mouth opening and closing as if searching for a response. Edward placed a protective hand on her arm, his expression unreadable, though his jaw was clenched tight.

"It's the same for Rhyland and Braelyn," Evander continued, his voice unwavering. "We were meant for each other. It's not something you can understand unless you've felt it." He paused, looking around the room at the rest of the family, his gaze lingering briefly on Carlisle before returning to Bella. "And that's the truth. Ugly or not."

Silence followed his words, heavy and unyielding. Delilah finally broke it, stepping forward cautiously and placing a hand on Evander's chest. "Evander," she said softly, her voice gentle yet firm, "that's enough."

His shoulders relaxed slightly at her touch, the fire in his eyes dimming as he looked down at her. She gave him a small, reassuring smile, and he let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding.

Carlisle stepped forward then, his voice calm and steady as always. "Thank you, Evander," he said with a nod, his gaze holding a mixture of understanding and quiet authority. "That's enough for now."

Evander nodded once before turning back to Delilah. He cupped her face in his hands, brushing a thumb across her cheek in a silent apology. "I'm sorry," he murmured, his voice low but filled with sincerity.

She shook her head. "You don't need to apologize," she replied softly. "You were defending us."

Jasper gave a small, approving nod, though the tension in his frame hadn't fully dissipated.

Bella, meanwhile, stood in stunned silence, her gaze darting between Edward and the others as if piecing together a puzzle she hadn't realized was there. Edward gently guided her toward the couch, his expression softening as he spoke to her in a low voice.

As the room began to settle, Delilah leaned into Evander's side, his arm wrapping around her protectively. The storm had passed—for now—but its echoes lingered, a reminder of the fragile balance they all walked in their complicated, intertwined lives.

Evander's gaze cut sharply to Edward, his voice cool and measured, though the undertone of disdain was impossible to miss. "Do you know what you're asking of yourself, of her?" His golden eyes flicked to Bella for a moment before returning to Edward. "Her blood appeals to you so much that every second you're near her, you're fighting the instinct to kill her. You're swallowing down the urge to drain every last drop of her blood just so you can stand next to her, so you can touch her." His lip curled slightly, and his tone turned mocking. "Romantic, isn't it?"

Bella's face blanched at his words, and she looked at Edward with wide, uncertain eyes. Edward's jaw tightened, but he didn't immediately respond, his hand tightening protectively around Bella's arm.

"Evander," Carlisle said, stepping forward with a calm but firm expression, his hands held up as if to diffuse a bomb. "Enough."

Evander took a half-step back, his shoulders tense, but he didn't retreat entirely. His eyes lingered on Edward, then Bella, sharp as a blade.

Carlisle turned his attention to Bella, his expression softening slightly, though there was a weight behind his words. "Bella," he began gently, "Evander's words are harsh, but he's not entirely wrong. A blood singer..." He paused, choosing his words carefully. "A blood singer's presence is both a blessing and a curse in our world. Your blood calls to Edward in a way that is nearly impossible to resist. It is a temptation unlike anything else. But it's also dangerous more often than not without even realising vampires lose control when encountering their blood singers."

Bella's brow furrowed as she looked between Edward and Carlisle. "Dangerous how?" she asked, her voice small.

Carlisle sighed, glancing briefly at Evander before continuing. "The Volturi—the ruling coven of our kind—have laws that protect our secrecy and govern our behavior. A blood singer is not meant to be with anyone because the bond is based purely on attraction, not compatibility or destiny. It's... volatile." He glanced at Edward, who remained silent, his expression stoic but tense. "Edward believes you're mates, but the reality is that this connection is something far more fragile. And fragile things can shatter."

Evander let out a humorless laugh, running a hand through his messy blonde hair as he leaned back slightly. "Fragile is an understatement," he said, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "She doesn't belong in this world." His golden eyes locked onto Bella's again, and his expression hardened. "You don't belong in this world. You never did. All you're doing is putting us in danger—getting us killed because your precious Edward is too stubborn to see the truth."

Bella flinched at his words, stepping closer to Edward, who immediately positioned himself in front of her. "That's enough," Edward said firmly, his voice low and warning.

Evander didn't flinch. Instead, his infamous smirk crept onto his face, a dangerous glint in his eyes. "Go ahead," he taunted, taking a step closer to Edward. "Take a swing, mind reader. Do it. Prove me right."

Edward stiffened, his muscles coiling, but he didn't move. The room was electric with tension, every vampire present watching the scene unfold with caution. Jasper shifted slightly, his hand twitching as he fought to manage the volatile emotions swirling around them all, but most of all Edward's anger and Evander's pure rage itching for a fight.

"Evander," Delilah's soft voice cut through the tension like a beam of sunlight breaking through storm clouds.

Everyone's attention snapped to her as she stepped away from Jasper who wanted to stop her but he didn't, her movements measured and deliberate. She stopped just in front of Evander, her hand brushing against his arm. "Baby," she said softly, the endearment slipping from her lips like a gentle caress.

Evander's gaze snapped down to her, his eyes losing some of their rage as they met hers. She offered him a small, reassuring smile, the kind that always managed to disarm him. "It's not worth it," she said simply, her voice tender but firm. "You've made your point. Let it go."

For a moment, it looked like he might argue, the tension still radiating from his frame. But then he sighed, the fight draining from him as he reached up to gently cup her cheek. "You always know how to stop me," he murmured, his voice low and affectionate.

"That's my job," she replied with a teasing smile, placing her hand over his.

The room relaxed slightly, though the atmosphere was still thick with unspoken words and unresolved tension. Carlisle stepped forward again, placing a hand on Evander's shoulder. "Thank you," he said quietly, his tone heavy with meaning.

Evander gave a small nod, his attention still focused on Delilah. She smiled up at him, brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead before stepping back slightly, keeping a hand on his arm as if grounding him.

Edward turned to Bella, his expression pained but composed. "Are you all right?" he asked softly.

She nodded hesitantly, her gaze flicking between Evander and Delilah. "I... I didn't realize..." she began, her voice trailing off.

"It's a lot to take in," Carlisle said, his voice soothing. "But now you understand the stakes and why it's so different with them around than it is with you."

Bella nodded again, her face pale but determined. She glanced at Delilah, who offered her a faint, understanding smile. It was a small gesture, but it seemed to ease some of the tension in the room.

As the group began to disperse, Delilah tugged lightly on Evander's arm, pulling him toward the open window where he preferred to stand. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice just for him.

"For what?" he asked, his smirk returning as he looked down at her.

"For always fighting for me," she said simply, resting her head against his shoulder.

He wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her close. "Always," he murmured, his voice soft but unwavering, place a soft chaste kiss to her forehead before stalking over to the stairs.

Bella's face paled further as she watched Evander retreat, the slam of his door reverberating through the house. Her wide eyes flicked to Edward, whose face was a mask of composed neutrality, though his tense posture betrayed his unease.

"Come on," Edward said softly, guiding Bella toward the staircase. "I'll show you around."

Bella nodded wordlessly, her gaze lingering on the spot where Evander had been standing moments before. The look in his eyes—predatory, intense, and undeniably cold—had left a chill in her bones. Even as Edward led her away, her thoughts swirled uneasily.

Meanwhile, Delilah rolled her eyes dramatically at Evander's stormy exit, turning on her heel to face Esme with a smile that brightened the room. A faint blush painted her cheeks as she asked, "Esme, is it okay if I eat now? All this excitement has worked up an appetite."

Esme's kind laugh softened the edges of the tension still lingering in the air. "Of course, dear," she replied warmly, gesturing toward the kitchen. "You don't have to ask."

Braelyn appeared beside Delilah in an instant, linking arms with her. "Let's go before Emmett decides to 'eat' with us only to vomit in the garden." she quipped, casting a teasing glance at the hulking vampire.

"Hey!" Emmett exclaimed, his expression mock-wounded. "It might starts differnet one day!"

"But it won't idiot," Rosalie deadpanned, rolling her eyes from her perch on the armrest of the couch.

The light-hearted exchange drew a wave of chuckles from the group, the tension in the room finally beginning to dissipate. Delilah grinned as she and Braelyn bounded into the kitchen, not letting Evander's earlier mood dampen her excitement for a warm meal.

"Honestly, he's such a drama queen sometimes," Delilah muttered to Braelyn as she grabbed a plate. "I mean, he could've just said his piece and let it go."

"Yeah, but then he wouldn't be Evander," Braelyn replied with a smirk, grabbing a plate of her own. "Brooding is practically his superpower."

The two girls burst into quiet laughter as they began assembling their meal, the aroma of the freshly cooked food filling the kitchen.

After dinner, Delilah helped Esme tidy up, chatting lightly about prom shopping plans with Braelyn. Once the last dish was dried and put away, she slipped upstairs, intending to check on Evander. She didn't bother knocking on his door; after all, he'd been the one to insist, 'What's yours is mine,' since the early days of their still fresh relationship.

As she stepped into the room, the cool night air greeted her, the wide-open sliding door allowing a breeze to sweep through. Evander sat at his desk, pen gliding over a notebook. His hair was messier than usual, tousled from his earlier frustration, and a small furrow creased his brow. The sight was endearing, and Delilah had to bite her lip to keep from giggling.

The door clicked softly behind her, but Evander didn't look up, his focus unwavering he already knew it was her. His quiet intensity always made her heart flutter, even when he was sulking. Trudging over to him, she didn't stop until she was lifting his free arm that rested on the desk and sliding into his lap, straddling his waist legs hugging his thighs tightly and wrapping her arms around his neck.

Evander finally looked away from his paper and at her, his golden eyes softening as they met hers. "My love," he murmured, a faint smile tugging at his lips.

"Hi," she said sweetly, leaning forward to nuzzle her nose against his. "You looked too serious, so I decided to fix it."

Setting his pen aside, Evander wrapped his arms around her hips, pulling her closer as he leaned back in his chair. "Oh, you did, did you?" he teased, his tone lighter now.

Delilah grinned mischievously and began peppering his face with kisses—his forehead, his cheeks, the tip of his nose. Each soft press of her lips drew a quiet laugh from him, the sound like music to her ears. By the time she hovered over his lips, her face was lit with a playful smile.

"You missed a spot," he murmured, his voice low and teasing as his gaze flicked to her lips.

She raised a brow, feigning confusion. "Oh, did I?"

Evander chuckled, the sound deep and warm. "You did."

Her lips hovered tantalizingly close to his, their breaths mingling. She could feel the tension in his body, the restraint he always exercised so carefully around her, and it only made her affection for him grow. "You'll have to guide me, then," she whispered, her voice a mix of teasing and tender.

He didn't hesitate, closing the small gap between them to capture her lips in a soft, lingering kiss. It was slow and deliberate, a silent apology for his earlier outburst and a reminder of just how much he adored her.

When they finally pulled apart, Delilah rested her forehead against his, her fingers playing with the hair at the nape of his neck. "Feeling better now?" she asked softly.

"Much better," he admitted, his eyes searching hers. "You always do that to me."

"Good," she replied with a satisfied smile. "Now, no more sulking. Agreed?"

Evander smirked, his arms tightening around her. "Agreed—on one condition."

"Oh?" she asked, tilting her head curiously.

"You stay here with me for a while," he said, his tone soft but firm. "I think I need some more convincing."

Delilah laughed, leaning in to kiss him again. "Deal."

Delilah leaned back slightly, her lips curling into a teasing grin. She couldn't resist. It was impossible not to comment when he was this adorable, all ruffled and intense. "You know," she murmured, her voice low, "you're so sexy when you get all worked up like this." Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she studied him, watching the way his jaw clenched and his posture stiffened at her words. "Don't worry, though," she added, reaching up to smooth a few strands of his tousled hair. "I've long given up on trying to find a way for Bella to not overstep." She paused, leaning in closer to him, her lips brushing against his ear. "Edward made his decision."

Evander's grip tightened around her waist, pulling her closer, as if the reminder of her affection for him was the only reassurance he needed. Her heart fluttered when his face softened, those golden eyes of his softening as he watched her. "I still don't like it," he muttered, his voice hoarse. But the tension in his body began to fade as she kissed him again, her lips slow and tender as she tried to reassure him without words.

She pulled away after a moment, humming softly to herself as her fingers slid gently through his hair, pushing it back from his forehead. Delilah kissed him there, her lips brushing lightly against his cold skin as she adjusted herself, settling into his lap with her head resting comfortably against his chest.

It was easy. Being with him was effortless in a way that was almost dangerous. He was grounding in a way no one else could ever be for her. "You could lie in bed, you know," he mumbled, a soft laugh escaping his lips as he held her, his voice teasing. "If you want."

Delilah shook her head, her smile soft but resolute. "No, I'm good here," she replied, her fingers tracing random patterns on his chest as she settled in further, his voice calming her. "I just want to be with you. You can finish whatever it is you're doing, and then we can watch a movie. You know, a cozy night in. Just us." Her voice trailed off, her eyes closing for a moment as she imagined the perfect evening with him. She didn't care what they did, as long as they were together.

"Sweetheart," he murmured, his arms wrapping tighter around her, his chin resting on the top of her head. She could feel his body relax under her touch, the strain of earlier slowly melting away. "You really do make everything easy, don't you?"

Her lips twitched into a soft smile as she lifted her head to look at him. "I could say the same about you," she replied softly, her hand reaching up to cup his cheek. The coolness of his skin under her warm palm made her feel a sense of comfort she hadn't known she needed until now.

He leaned into her touch, his golden eyes gazing deeply into hers. "Maybe we're both just lucky," he whispered, his voice low and sincere.

Delilah felt the weight of his words settle in her chest, a warmth spreading through her heart. She wanted nothing more than this—nothing more than him, here, with her. The quiet of the room wrapped around them, the steady hum of the house beyond the walls fading as the two of them shared this perfect moment.

After a moment of peaceful silence, she rested her head back against his chest. She knew she should give him space, let him finish whatever it was he had been working on. But being here, with him, in his embrace, felt like exactly where she was meant to be.

"I'm just glad it's you," she whispered, her voice barely audible as she smiled to herself. "I don't need anything else."

Evander chuckled softly, the sound warm and rich, and he pressed a kiss to the top of her head. "I feel the same," he replied, his voice tinged with an affectionate note. "No one else could make me feel this... peaceful."

"I think I'm done with homework for tonight," Evander mumbled after a few moments of silence, his fingers tracing patterns on her arm as he leaned back, shifting slightly to get more comfortable. "But now that you're here, I think I've earned a movie night, don't you?"

Delilah's lips curled into a smile as she lifted her head, pressing a soft kiss to his lips. "I've been waiting for that," she teased lightly. "Pick something good, though. I'm in the mood for something cheesy."

"Cheesy?" He raised an eyebrow, smirking slightly. "You're really setting the bar low, aren't you?"

She grinned at him, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Well, you know, I think you're just perfect for that," she teased back, her fingers brushing against his jaw in a soft caress.

Evander laughed softly, rolling his eyes. "I'll take that as a compliment," he said, a teasing note in his voice. "But I'll pick something good anyway."

With that, the two of them settled in after getting changed, the quiet hum of the evening filling the room, accompanied only by the sound of soft laughter, little comments, and 10 Things I Hate About You playing on the tv, the closeness of their shared space, and the undeniable ease they found in simply being together.

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a/n: well i believe this is a long awaited chapter..
so here it is!!

also new cover!! thank you amxliewrites ❤️ truly appreciate it so so much