Out of the Darkness Teaser

I left my home, reluctantly, and drove to the Clallam County Coroner’s Office. Charlie met me outside, shaking my hand and frowning deeply. We walked inside and into a frozen room. The medical examiner pulled back a sheet, revealing Alice’s still form, but she looked like Bella.

“Is this Isabella Swan?” asked the medical examiner.

I sobbed, remembering that moment in the field. Her last words … her whispered ‘I love you’ and hearing her heart stop. Charlie held me. “Edward? Is this Bella?”

“Yes,” I cried, reaching for Alice’s cheek and brushing it tenderly.

You’re rocking the grieving, Edward. Excellent work, Alice thought to me.

“Did you know what Miss Swan wanted to be done? If she had died?” the medical examiner asked.

“Mr. Cullen is a close friend of the family. I’ll take care of the preparations,” Charlie said. “She said she wanted to be cremated.” He handed the ME a card. “This man will be by to pick up her remains.”

“No autopsy?” he asked.

“No,” I said. “No. I want her whole.”

“Understood, sir. My condolences.” He covered Alice’s face and Charlie led me out of the room.