Bella had been a vampire for only a few weeks. The thirst that should have consumed every waking moment remained astonishingly manageable, much to Carlisle's fascination and Jasper's quiet relief. Edward rarely left Bella's side, Renesmee was growing faster than anyone could have imagined, and for the first time since Bella's transformation, the family was allowing themselves to believe they might have a little peace. Carlisle had invited a nomadic vampire to stop by while traveling through Washington, hoping to offer the same compassion that had once changed his own life. It wasn't unusual for wandering vampires to visit the Cullens, curious about their unusual lifestyle or simply looking for conversation before continuing on their way. The atmosphere inside the house was relaxed. Esme and Carlisle spoke quietly with their guest.

For months, Charlie had insisted Bella's fraternal twin come to Forks. Bella's sudden marriage, her decision to disappear into the woods with the Cullens, and her increasingly strange excuses over the phone had become impossible to ignore. Eventually, concern had won out over distance. Bella had spent days rehearsing half-truths. None of them felt convincing.