Cursed With Beauty

X19

It's been nearly a week since Annalise gave Alice her memories, of their friendship, back and things have been a little on edge, especially since Alice had that vision. Edward was in a sort of panic. He rarely left her side and that was only when she needed to utilize the bathroom. He was afraid that if he let her out of his sight, he'd lose her forever. Alice, almost every minute of every day, was telling her that what happened to her was not her, Annalise's, fault and that she didn't blame her. Everyone else, well, they were all taking turns watching her, being with her, to make sure that she was safe.

"Okay, seriously, this has to stop," Annalise said as they all say in the living area.

"Annalise -" Edward started but she held up a hand to stop him.

"Look, I understand that you're all worried about me, but this taking a shift to keep me protected, following me around all day every day has got to stop." She stated softly. "It's not fair to any of you."

"Sweetie, we want to do this," Esme stated.

"I understand that, but I don't want you to. I can protect myself. I don't need all of you putting your lives on hold for me." Annalise stated.

"We're immortal vampires. We have more than enough time." Said Emmett.

Annalise sighed. They were stubborn. That fact both amused and annoyed her beyond comprehension. A family that is full of stubborn vampires. What have I gotten myself into?

"Don't argue with me on this, Emmett. I will not have either one of you risks your life, or the life of another, to keep me protected." She looked around at every one of them. "You can either accept that or not. Either way...I won't put up with this any longer."

"Annalise -" Carlisle started but she stopped him.

"Don't. I don't plan on changing my mind any time soon, so please, stop." She turned to Edward. "I know that you're worried about losing me, but you won't. You don't have to follow my every move."

Edward appeared directly in front of her and took her face in his hands. "I worry about someone finding out about you, about how gifted and amazing you are, and taking you from me. I will worry about you every day for the rest of our lives."

Annalise shook her head.

"I wish you wouldn't. I'm capable of taking care of myself. I don't want you stressing yourself unnecessarily."

"You are the woman I love. Worrying about you is not unnecessary." Edward stated firmly.

"Edward -"

"A compromise. Neither of them will attend public outings with you as long as you agree to at least take me with you."

Annalise let out a sigh, her eyes locked with Edward's intense gaze. She understood his concerns, his need to protect her, but at the same time, she yearned for independence and the freedom to navigate the world on her own terms.

"Edward, I appreciate your love and concern, but I can't live my life in fear of what could happen. Yes, I have my own unique abilities, but that doesn't mean I can't handle myself. I want to be able to make choices for myself, to explore the world without constantly worrying about being taken away or hidden."

Edward's grip on her face loosened, his expression softening as he listened to her words. He knew that Annalise was strong and capable, but the overwhelming desire to protect her sometimes clouded his judgment.

"I understand your point, Annalise," Edward said, his voice filled with a mix of love and apprehension. "But please try to see things from my perspective as well. I've spent centuries guarding secrets, protecting those I care about. It's a part of who I am. All I want is to keep you safe."

Annalise reached out and gently touched Edward's hand, her touch comforting and reassuring. "I know, Edward. And I appreciate all that you do for me. But I also need to find a balance between being true to myself and embracing the love we share. I don't want to hide or live in constant fear. Let's find a compromise that allows us both to feel secure."

Edward contemplated her words, realizing that he couldn't control every aspect of their lives. He had to trust Annalise and her abilities, just as she trusted him to keep her safe.

"You're right," Edward admitted, a hint of vulnerability in his voice. "We can find a middle ground. We'll be selective about public outings, ensuring we have proper security measures in place. And when we do go out together, we'll be vigilant and cautious."

Annalise smiled, relieved that Edward was willing to meet her halfway. She knew their journey wouldn't be without its challenges, but their love and understanding would guide them through.

"Thank you, Edward," Annalise whispered, her voice filled with gratitude. "Together, we can face anything that comes our way. Our love is strong enough to conquer any fears or doubts."

Edward leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss on Annalise's forehead. "I love you more than words can express, Annalise. I will always be here to protect you, but I will also learn to trust in your strength and independence."

As they stood there, their hearts intertwined, they knew that their love was a force that could overcome any obstacle. With compromise and mutual respect, they were ready to face the world together, hand in hand, united in their unwavering bond.

"Thank you. Your trust in me means a lot."

Annalise spoke softly, her voice filled with emotion. She could feel the weight of Edward's trust, knowing that it was a precious gift he had bestowed upon her. It was a testament to the depth of their love and the growth they had achieved within their relationship.

Edward smiled, his eyes reflecting his unwavering belief in her. "You've shown me time and time again that you are strong and capable, Annalise. I have no doubt in my heart that you can handle whatever comes our way."

Their hands intertwined, creating a tangible connection that reminded them of the unbreakable bond they shared. Annalise felt a surge of confidence and determination, fueled by Edward's unwavering support.

"Edward, together we can conquer any challenge," she said, her voice filled with determination. "With your love and trust, and my strength and independence, there's nothing we cannot overcome."

Edward nodded, his gaze filled with a mixture of adoration and pride. "You're right, my love. We are a formidable team, and I have faith that our love will guide us through the darkest of times."

As they stood there, ready to face whatever the future held, Annalise and Edward knew that their journey would be filled with ups and downs. But they also knew that with their love as their compass, they would always find their way back to each other.

Hand in hand, they walked forward, embracing the unknown with open hearts and a steadfast belief in the power of their love. Together, they were an unstoppable force, ready to create their own destiny and build a future where trust, strength, and unwavering love reigned supreme.