I heard a knock on the door and sat up, hoping it was Bella, but I knew who it was before the door opened.

I could hear her thoughts, her hesitation. Rosalie.

“Come in, Rosalie.”

She poked her head in, her honey-colored hair framing her heart-shaped face.

“I just came to see how Bella was doing.”

“She’s not here. She’s talking with Carlisle.”

“Oh. May I come in?”

I beckoned for her to come sit next to me.

“Is she doing all right, Edward?”

“Better than I expected.”

“Are you doing all right?”

I was surprised at how solicitous she was being. This was not normally her nature. “I’m doing OK. A little surprised at how easy it’s been so far, honestly. I didn’t think she’d be up and about on the third day.”

“Bella’s strong. Stronger than all of us. Except Emmett, maybe,” she chuckled.

“I wonder if Jasper will get them to arm wrestle like he wanted to.”

“Probably, knowing Jasper. You know, Edward, I’m glad it worked out this way, despite my earlier doubts. Our family feels more complete somehow.”