“I like you” she whispered. I wanted to say I did too. I wanted to tell her everything. I wanted to hold her and be able to without even considering my thirst. I wanted to be human for her. I wanted the world and more for her. With those three words she had stripped away whatever lies I had been telling myself. I was falling in love with her, with a human. The lion falling in love with the lamb. I hated myself for this, for letting this happen. I couldn't do this to her. I knew she would grow suspicious one day. I knew one day she would die. I might even eat her. How appalling.

“Chiori. I…” was all I managed. Which was surprising since I was usually very quick with words. But what words could I use to make this right. Without lying. Without telling the truth. Suddenly she leaned toward me. The wind blew her scent even more my way and I tensed, but she didn't stop. And then our lips collided. The thirst and the lust, and yes unfortunately the love boiled up in me and I couldn't really help myself from kissing back. I could feel her all around me. Part of mind wondered if she even noticed my cold skin. After a few endless seconds, of me tensing and relaxing on and off she pulled away and stared at me. Most of me was ecstatic with the feeling I assumed was love. I didn't know. I had never experienced anything like this even in my human lifetime. Part of me was amazed at myself for controlling myself. I hadn't bit her!

“See? Now you know why you're going to stay.” she laughed. I smiled back. But her words triggered an immense sadness. I was going to leave. I had to.

“No. I still must leave-” I started, to try and explain something I didn't even know myself.

“Then I'll come. Carlisle I like you immensely. Surely that has occurred to you.”

“I…”

“Shh!”

“But…”

“NO! Shh!”

“Chiori…”

“You know I'm right. You feel it to.” she said slightly irritated.

“Yes” I resigned with a sigh. More than you can imagine I thought. I wanted to things. To be with her. And to protect her and myself. The two desires were impossible to reconcile.