novelnovicetwilight

Bottom of page 174 / top of 175, Chapter 8 Port Angeles

Bella: "Did you ever think that maybe my number was up the first time, with the van, and that you've been interfering with fate?"

Edward: "That wasn't the first time...Your number was up the first time I met you."

I've always liked this exchange in the Italian restaurant. I believe Bella knew the answer to this question before ever asking. In fact, she delivers the line to Edward in a joking manner as if daring him to prove her wrong. Edward ends up supporting Bella's speculation by answering with brutal honesty. He is her fate, her life, and her death. Runaway vans and the affectionate advances of others toward Bella may tempt fate, but nothing will sever their bond.