The Doctors Assistant | Carlisle Cullen x OC

Chapter 13 | Bound by Destiny

As Ashley and Carlisle arrived at her house, they were greeted by the comforting aroma of freshly baked pizza. Ashley had ordered some for herself, knowing that she would need sustenance for the evening ahead. Meanwhile, Carlisle settled into a cozy corner with the Latin book that had once belonged to Ashley's mother, his brow furrowed in concentration as he absorbed the ancient text.

As Ashley finished her meal and Carlisle reached the final pages of the book, a sense of anticipation hung in the air. It was as if they were on the brink of a profound revelation, one that would alter the course of their lives forever.

Finally, with the book closed and the last slice of pizza eaten, Carlisle turned to Ashley, his expression serious yet tender. "There's something I want to talk to you about, Ashley," he began, his voice soft but resolute.

Intrigued, Ashley set down her plate and turned her full attention to Carlisle. "What is it?" she asked, her eyes searching his for clues.

Taking a deep breath, Carlisle spoke, his words filled with a depth of emotion that took Ashley by surprise. "Ashley, you're my mate," he said simply, his gaze unwavering as he waited for her reaction.

Confusion flickered across Ashley's face as she processed Carlisle's words. "Mate? What does that mean?" she questioned, her mind racing to comprehend the significance of his declaration.

Carlisle's lips curved into a gentle smile as he explained. "A mate is like a soulmate," he clarified. "For vampires, finding their mate is an extraordinary bond, one that transcends time and space. We would do anything to protect our mate, to ensure their happiness and safety above all else."

Ashley's eyes widened in disbelief as she absorbed Carlisle's words. It was a revelation unlike any she had ever experienced, one that filled her with a sense of wonder and awe.

"Do you... do you feel those things for me?" Ashley ventured, her voice barely above a whisper as she searched Carlisle's eyes for the truth.

Without hesitation, Carlisle nodded, his gaze never leaving hers. "From the moment I saw you in the hospital, I knew you were special," he confessed, his voice filled with sincerity. "I've never felt this way about anyone before, Ashley. I love you."

Moved beyond words, Ashley felt her heart swell with emotion as she leaned forward, closing the distance between them. In that moment, as their lips met in a tender kiss, Ashley knew that she had found her place in the world, her heart forever intertwined with Carlisle's.

"I love you too, Carlisle," Ashley whispered, her voice filled with unspoken promises of a future filled with love and possibility. And as they embraced, their souls entwined in a bond that could never be broken, Ashley knew that she had found her home in the arms of the man she loved.