Chapter Twenty – Compromise

Chapter Number:  20

Chapter Name: Compromise

Page Numbers: 434 – 460

Date of Chapter:  June 13, 2006

Summary:
The chapter opens with Bella preparing to spend the night at the Cullens.  She is concerned about the others left in Forks but is grateful that her loved ones are out of harm’s way.  Edward has made arrangements for Bella and him to be alone at the house.  He just wants her to relax.  Bella has decided there is something she wants before she is changed but is nervous about talking it over with Edward.   

Bella arrives at the house and is greeted with several kisses from Edward who is excited about giving Bella a hand me down present.   Edward gives Bella a “crystal” heart that reminds her of him for being hard and sparkly.  Edward places the charm on the bracelet that Jacob gave her.  

Bella decides to negotiate with Edward.  She tells him that she wants him before she is changed and Edward doesn’t quite understand her meaning until she tries to take his clothes off.  Edward refuses to compromise, afraid he would hurt her.   Bella feels dejected.  She pleads with Edward that she just wants to try.  The pleading breaks Edward’s resolve and he offers a new compromise.  He is willing to try but only after they are married.  Bella realizes that the reason Edward wants to wait is to protect her virtue, which she finds very funny.  Edward also realizes that he can use her hormones to speed up the marriage process.  

Edward shows her the ring and explains that it was his mothers.  Bella is not overly enthused at trying it on but does to make Edward happy.  Once the ring is on her finger Edward drops to one knee to propose properly.  In spite of her reluctance, Bella agrees.

Characters Involved: Bella Swan, Edward Cullen

Character Mentioned: Charlie Swan, Renee Dwyer, Emmett Cullen, Carlisle Cullen, Esme Cullen

Places Visited: Cullen House

Memorable Quotes:
“I promise to love you forever—every single day of forever.  Will you marry me?”  ~ Edward to Bella

“Would you please stop trying to take your clothes off?”  ~ Edward to Bella

“No silly girl, I am trying to protect yours.  And you are making it shockingly difficult.”  ~ Edward talking about Bella’s virtue  

Important Information learned:
Edward plans a night alone with Bella before the battle.

Bella decides there are some things she has to do before she is changed.

Bella tries to seduce Edward, and he has trouble resisting her but does to protect her virtue.  

Edward asks Bella to marry him and shows her the ring.  Bella agrees but only if they promise to try having sex before she is turned.

Bella and Edward are officially engaged.

Chapter Prepared By: Be My Escape