AN. Reviews make me terribly happy.

Present day

Behind Dr. Volturi's desk was a huge bookshelf that was filled from top to bottom with a ton of books, some of which I had read before and others I had never seen. All of it intrigued me but it distracted me from the fact that I was terrified of what was about to come out of his mouth. Having a bad impression on my first dinner here is surely frowned upon and wouldn't do well in the future.

"You know, I perceived that you were very reserved Friday night at dinner. I hope you felt comfortable in our home," he tells me.

I feel bad because I wasn't the best guest and apparently I gave the wrong impression or perhaps multiple wrong impressions.

"Please know it had nothing to do with you. I just wasn't feeling too well. I don't usually talk about it but I have Hashimoto's Disease and sometimes it just knocks me off my game," I tell him.

It is partially true even though that was not the reason I was obviously quiet and out of it. I was diagnosed with thyroid disorder after my third year of college. It affected my everyday life and the way I looked with my thinning hair and weight gain. It's not the most ethical excuse I could have given but at least it isn't a complete lie.

"Oh, I did not know of this, please let me know if we can ever be accomodationg towards you in the department," he tells me sincerely.

I'm definitely going to hell.

I just nod in agreement waiting to hear what he wanted to discuss.

"Now, putting our social gathering behind us, I would like to ask you for a favor," he tells me seriously. "Since last year, every winter break we send fifteen of our best freshmen abroad. They go for two weeks to Europe while learning about the global institutions that have shaped the world."

Even though this sounds fascinating, I still do not understand how this affects me. I wait for him to continue.

"Usually we send two faculty members that are either single or do not have children. This tour does require spending the holidays abroad. This year the two professors were already covered but Dr. Whitlock has had to back out at the last moment due to personal reasons however he suggested you," he tells me with a smile. "I was wondering if you would consider taking his place."

"There's nothing to consider, of course I'll go," I tell him ecstatically.

After doing a summer in France when I was a student, I have not yet returned to Europe. Going back with what I think will be all expenses paid seemed like a no brainer. I am not big on the holidays since they bring me bad memories. I've spent the last three years with Emmett and Rose at her family home.

"Excellent! You're visiting Belgium, Berlin and London, I'll send you and Edward the latest information," he says while opening his laptop.

My excitement completely went dead.

"Edward? Who's Edward?"

Dr. Volturi has the nerve to laugh! My life is completely dead in the water and he's laughing?

"Professor Cullen of course. He and Jasper were both going together and there was only one spot left." His eyebrows knit together. "I hope this doesn't change your acceptance".

Of course it fucking should! I won't tell him that besides this seems like too much of a good opportunity to pass.

"Of course not," I tell him with the fakest smile I'm sure I've ever given.

There's a knock on the door. We both turned to look and there peeking through the window of the door is the bronze hair which has starred in my dreams many times.

"I hope you don't mind but I texted Edward before we started the meeting. He's here to discuss the details," he tells me while motioning him to enter his office.

"Edward, Miss Swan has agreed to take Jasper's place on the winter trip. I hope this calms your worries about taking the responsibility alone.

You look at me and your eyes scream panic.

Yeah, we're fucked.

AN. Before anything else, I have to say, I've been blown away with all your reviews, I love to hear your thoughts, this story has been dancing in my mind for years and I'm glad you're enjoying it.

My most important announcement is that this chapter has been Beta by the lovely MadMooey18, I never thought I'd have a Beta. Makes me feel nice. Thank you for your time and help.

See you soon.