Bella narrowed her eyes. "It is nothing that can cause harm," she said firmly, but gently, as if realizing that something had happened in the past to cause the jumpy reaction. "I don't know what would make you suspicious, but it is simply that my father is a traditional man and he prefers to use what powers he has-"

Carlisle giggled into his sleeve, blush finally fading enough that it was barely noticeable.

"-to make the travel much faster. It's a simple runic spell, and I will of course make the schematics available to you. Carlisle will bring them to your daughter on Monday- but as for now, we must be going." She rose, uneaten cupcake still in hand as she smiled at Jane and Casia. "Happy birthday, Casia." And she left; Carlisle got up, too.

"Don't worry," he said, "It just makes the car go faster, really. Aunt Bella just likes seeming like she's all powerful and mystical." He nodded, and smiled at Casia. "I'll see you in school?" He would have waited for a response, but his aunt called, and with an apologetic glance and wishing her a happy birthday again, he dashed out to follow her.