1) I love that from the beginning you keep stating how voyeurism is an big part of this community. It is something that adds a real cohesiveness to your chapters, with the observation room being the platform for this act. It is an interesting twist on the canon elements of voyeurism. I also think it is interesting how voyeurism amps up the sexual tension. All these barriers in place to keep a person from the very thing that he desires and yet it is the catalyst that allows him to come to understand her as he needs to. However, I keep wondering if this aspect of the Cullens is going to become a problem for them in future chapters?
The observation deck is an important aspect of this type of voyeurism because it gives the illusion of privacy. Yes, the girls know they are being watched, but there is not the vivid reminder of it like Bella experienced when Emmett was watching her. At that time, she knew the potential of more people watching there, yet she didn’t know for certain. I think in that way, she feels more comfortable to explore her sexual desires without that being a blatant fact in her face.
That being said, I could see other forms of voyeurism becoming a problem…
2) I thought that it was great how you addressed the issue of the Betties being mislead as this was something I had been asking myself. Obviously Edward does not understand how the Betties can accept the deceit when they come to discover the true meaning behind their places within this community because he has never been mated. Is it another test in which to strengthen the relationship of the mated couples? Is it something that the Betties are made intentionally unaware of in order to relieve the pressure of their situations? Both?
Yes to both. As a woman, coming into an unknown situation is stressful enough. Add sexual tension and exploration on top of that, it is enough to cause a shitton of anxiety. The program is set up the way it is to give the women control. They are the ones who choose when and with whom. There is a reason why there are only Dames, and not Mentors for the men, save Carlisle. But his purpose is more than just that, which we will discover in future chapters.
The whole theory of the program revolves around the experience of the people in the home. Taking out certain aspects, what makes a good mate? What aspects are people looking for? And can they all be discovered in the bedroom? I argue yes…
3) What rules has Edward broken before?
Remember when Rosalie mentioned someone leaving the Mansion in the past. Let’s just say, it has something to do with that. And the fact that Edward has never really taken to the constraints the program attempts to lay forth on their participants…
4) Will there be trouble between Edward and Jacob regarding Bella?
What twistory doesn’t have that? I do have to say though that I do not think it will be to the degree most are thinking. The way the program is set up is supposed to limit jealousy because everyone is very open about their sexual relationships. That being said, I do know that it does not take out the emotional aspect of things. Jacob and Edward both see things differently, and just based on what you’ve heard of their opinions, which one would you want as a mate?
5) Why is Carlisle letting Mike and Edward stay in the program if they are not buying into it?
This question cannot be answered in it’s entirety because it would give away things about the program itself. Just know that he can’t, unless they leave by choice.
6) Is Edward that much of a cynic? Or are thoughts of Bella getting to him?
A little of both, I think. Edward can’t see past the sex right now. He doesn’t understand the program to be anything more than a group of men and women getting it on all the time because that’s all he’s experienced.
7) Carlisle’s statement… "And you should keep in mind that not all these women come from such substantial money like our family, Edward. You could be a little more careful for our sake as well as your own."… bothers me. Doesn’t the sponsor thing take out the money aspect?
No. The sponsor thing only pays for the program. It doesn’t secure the wealthy men from any kind of blackmail. Even rich women can be vindictive….
8) Is Bella’s book deal about the program? Is she there covertly to sabotage them, or reveal them publicly?
No. It has nothing to do with the program.
9) Is Rosalie bisexual?
Yes, in the fact that she likes to have sex with women. Her intimacy, however, is strictly for Emmett alone. Think of the female partner in her bedroom as just another toy for her. I know that sounds crude, but it is what it is. She does not have relationships with these women. It’s just sex… that kind of bisexual…
10) Will there be a lover’s triangle?
LOL! Several, I should say…
11) What if Edward wants to be exclusive with her?
She’d have to return those feelings for that to be the case, just like in any other relationship. The mated couples fall for each other just like any other couple does, however, there is a difference in HOW they do it… Remember, the premise of the program was designed for the men's benefit, but the women are who dictate how it goes. On that note, as a man or woman, how do you formulate a solid relationship when you roommate with the people your honey’s had sex with? I guess we’ll see…
