Destined ~ Volturi Kings ~ (A Twilight Fanfic)

Chapter Nine

*Third Person's POV*

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Cullen household, Addi was finally resting in her room after a week of intense rehearsals for the upcoming concert. The anticipation and excitement had kept her on her toes, but now, with the concert just a day away, she felt a mix of nervousness and exhaustion. She closed her eyes, allowing herself to drift into sleep.

Meanwhile, the rest of the Cullens were engaging in their usual evening activities. Carlisle was at the dining room table, reviewing some medical journals, while Esme tended to the plants in the living room. Edward was playing the piano, while Emmett and Rosalie were playfully arguing over a game, and Jasper and Alice were discussing the final details of Addi's performance. Laughter and chatter filled the air, creating a sense of warmth and normalcy.

Suddenly, a low rumble of engines broke through the calm of the evening, drawing Carlisle's attention. He stood up, moving to the window to get a better view. The other Cullens followed suit, curiosity piqued. "Do we have visitors we weren't expecting?" Carlisle asked, glancing at the others.

They all peered out, their expressions shifting from curiosity to shock as they saw several sleek black vehicles pull up to the house. The doors swung open and members of the Volturi Guard emerged, instantly recognizable with their imposing presence. Jane, with her striking features and cold demeanor, led the way, flanked by her twin brother Alec. Demetri and Felix followed closely, their expressions unreadable.

"It's the Volturi." Edward said, his voice barely above a whisper. "They're here?" Jasper questioned. Carlisle processed the sight before him. "But they're not supposed to arrive so soon. Why are they here early?" He spoke. "Maybe they're trying to make a point. They want to intimidate Addi before she even gets a chance to perform." Rosalie speculated, her arms crossing, defensively.

Before anyone could respond, the Volturi Kings themselves emerged from the last vehicle. Aro, with his charismatic smile, was flanked by Caius and Marcus, their expressions serious and purposeful. The air in the room thickened with tension as the Cullens realized that this was not just an unexpected visit; it was a direct challenge to everything they had prepared for.

"What are we gonna do about Addi?" Alice asked, sounding concerned. The Cullen family exchanged anxious glances, knowing that Addi was peacefully sleeping in her room and unaware of the looming presence at their doorstep. "We can't wake her. We'll handle it ourselves." Carlisle whispered, as he was figuring out how to handle the situation without alarming her.

As the Volturi members approached the front door, Carlisle, steeling himself for the encounter, moved to the entrance, opening the door just as Aro stepped forward, with a smile spread across his face. "Ah, Carlisle, my old friend! It's a pleasure to see you." Aro said, his voice smooth and inviting, though it held an underlying chill. "Likewise, Aro." Carlisle replied, maintaining a calm demeanor despite the tension thrumming in the air. "I didn't expect you all to arrive so soon. Is there a particular reason for your early arrival?" He questioned.

Aro waved a hand dismissively, glancing back at his brothers and the Guard who stood attentively behind him. "We simply couldn't resist the opportunity to see our mate—and to get acquainted with you all for being so kind to her." He explained, while his gaze flicked to the interior of the house, an almost predatory gleam in his crimson eye. "Please, come in." Carlisle invited, stepping aside to let them enter. Aro led the way, followed closely by Caius and Marcus, with the rest of the Guard trailing behind.

As they moved into the living room, the rest of the Cullen family stood frozen for a moment, their expressions a mix of surprise and wariness. "Welcome." Carlisle said, motioning for them to make themselves comfortable as he tried to maintain a sense of normalcy despite the tension. "Ah, the famous Cullens." Aro said, his eyes gleaming with interest as he surveyed each member. "It's a delight to see you all." He greeted. "We weren't expecting you." Alice said, steadily despite the uneasiness.