Returning home.

[ofthefamily]

It's quiet in the Cullen household when Carlisle returns home, mind reeling from his conversation in the bar.

Edward, are you home?

Beyond that call, Carlisle draws a mental curtain over his thoughts. It won't last for long, but it has to last long enough.

Comments

[ofthefamily]

That does it. Something clicks over and Carlisle steps back of his own volition this time.

"I'm going out for a run, I think. I want to feel a bit more normal before Jasper gets home."

Feeble, but plausible.

[themidnightson]

Edward nodded, letting his hands fall to his sides again, against a cavernous plethora of silent thoughts when Carlisle both moved and spoke.

It takes a second before; "He'd appreciate that, if he knew."

[ofthefamily]

"I can't imagine this'll stay quiet for long."

Alice.




Exhale. "I should..." he trails off.

[themidnightson]

"It'll be fine," Edward said, one corner of his quirking. "I will be."

[ofthefamily]

"Yes. Good. Alright."

Carlisle stuttersteps for a moment, but turns and heads back into the house from the garage.

The chocolate sits on his desk for quite some time.