The novel ends with an impasse—Bella remains steadfast in her desire to be a vampire, and Edward continues to refuse her. Their disagreement stems from their differing perspectives on the matter. To Bella, becoming a vampire means she’ll never have to say goodbye to Edward. But to Edward, it would make Bella a monster, not the humanizing force she is now. Ending on this impasse further sets the stage for the sequel to continue exploring these ideas. Meanwhile, Edward kissing Bella on the throat—the very place he would bite if he was seeking her blood—further sets the stage for the sequel with a final tease of the always present mix of love, lust, and self-control that is so titillating throughout the novel.