So, for all the following chapters, I beg and suggest all of you who are under the

age of 18 not to read this. I Don t Own Anything! Life s Little Choices (Part 3, The End) Chapter 51 - Getting Ready (Lemon) "Would you like to join me in the shower?" Bella asked, grabbing her clothes from her bag in our closet. "Do you really think that's wise?" I asked, showing her the smile I knew she loved best. "I suppose not," she sighed, standing up and heading into our bathroom. I chuckled softly to myself as I took off my shirt, tossing it on the floor next to me. At least I didn't have to wonder if she'd enjoyed our love making so far. It was clearly evident in her beautiful, brown eyes. I grabbed my shirt, intending to put it in the hamper, when I noticed she had left the door wide open. The last time Bella had left a door open it had not ended well for her. I was shocked she would do it on purpose. Her back was to me as she pulled off her shirt. I wanted to look away, but my feet were glued to the floor. She slowly shimmied out of her jeans. As she reached around her back for her bra strap, my feet remembered how to move. I wrapped my arms around her waist and gently pulled her against my chest. "Isabella," I whispered as I kissed her neck. "Do you have any idea what you're doing to me right now?" "Maybe a little," she said, leaning further into me. Her smile was clear in her voice. "But you don't think it's wise to join me in here so you should leave." No embarrassment this time! The little vixen was taunting me. It was only fair to return it. "You're right," I said. I let her go then spun her around to face me. I grinned wickedly at her before scooping her up and tossing her over my shoulder. She squealed as I brought her out of the bathroom and dropped her onto our bed. I crawled above her and smiled down at her. "This is much better."

"I don't think so, Tutor-boy," she giggled. Her happiness made me feel happy. "You have too many clothes on." "You could always fix that," I said, kissing along her neck and shoulder. "And if I don't want to?" she asked, tugging at my jeans by the belt loops. "You wouldn't have left the bathroom door wide open," I replied, staring into her eyes. "You don't know that for sure," she said, smiling coyly at me. "For all you know, I merely forgot to close it again. It's not like you're a mind reader or anything." "True, but I like to think I've learned a little about reading your eyes and face since I've met you. And since you aren't blushing, it clearly wasn't an accident." "And what are my eyes telling you?" "You love me." "That's certainly true. Anything else?" "You are enjoying teasing me right now." "Possibly. What else?" "It's been far too long since I kissed you and touched you and held you close," I whispered, holding her in my arms. It was certainly true enough for me. I loved her more than I ever thought was possible. "I love you so much, Bella." I kissed her again. While I kissed her, she ran her little hands across my shoulders and down my chest. My breathing hitched a little when her hands moved down and started unbuttoning my jeans. I let her get them open and down my legs, then I stepped out of them, never breaking our kiss. It was still too soon when I had to let her go to breathe. "I love you, Edward," she panted, as I kissed across her shoulders. "I love you, Bella." I smiled against her skin, enjoying the knowledge that I made her feel this way. I lifted my head to kiss her lips again when Emmett's booming voice carried across the house. We both stopped moving, looking at each other warily.

"You locked the door, right?" she asked with a panicked look in her eyes. I ran to our door and grabbed the handle, glad to see it had been locked. I thought about the look on her face just now and the one from last night when she had been crying. "Maybe we should just save this for later," I sighed, leaning against the door. "Yeah, maybe," she said softly. She climbed off the bed and went into our bathroom, not even glancing toward me. I wondered if I had made a mistake. Maybe she hadn't wanted me to stop. The shower turned on as I stood against the door, trying to figure out what the right thing to do would be in this situation. I ran my hand through my hair and realized I had no idea. I would have to ask her. I took a deep breath and headed into our bathroom. Bella was leaning forward, letting the water pound against her back and shoulders. I stepped in behind her and softly kissed the wet skin of her back. "Edward, what are you doing?" she asked, her voice sounding somewhere between anger and pleasure. "I'm sorry for earlier," I whispered as I brushed my lips against the nape of her neck. "I wasn't sure what you wanted. I don't want Emmett and you to argue again. If you want us to wait until tonight, we will, but I just wanted to be close to you right now. I love you so much, Bella. I don't want to do anything that will upset you." She turned and faced me. "Edward, I appreciate the sentiment. It's very sweet of you. But there are only two people in our relationship and Emmett isn't one of them. I may not want him to know we have reached this step in our relationship, but I won't let his presence stop me from experiencing it either." She put her hands against my chest and smiled up at me. I was blown away once again by how beautiful she looked when she smiled. "So if you want to love me then love me. But you better decide before Alice comes looking for us. I have a feeling she could pick your lock if she really wanted to." I crashed my lips to hers, letting the kiss be my answer to her. She wrapped her arms around my neck, pulling herself closer to me. I lifted her up and wrapped her legs around my waist, balancing her between the wall and my chest. I hoped the tile wall wasn't too cold for her.

The water fell down around us as if we were caught outside in a very warm rainstorm. I moved my lips to her neck, licking up the droplets of water. A soft moan escaped her gorgeous lips. Slowly, I pushed forward into her, being careful to not hurt her in any way. I thought once again about how lucky I was I had decided to go to dinner with everyone to meet this wonderful woman. I started sucking at her neck, enjoying the taste of her skin. "Don't you dare give me a bruise there," she hissed, nudging my head with hers. "I promise, I won't," I chuckled against her skin. Did she think I had a death wish? Emmett would absolutely kill me if he saw a hickie on Bella! Neither of us spoke after that. The only sounds around us were the patter of the water, Bella's shallow breaths, and my own attempts to find air. She fit perfectly into my arms and I was so happy to have her close to me, sharing in this with me. I had never been happier that I had waited for the right person for her. She was worth every second of it. As she shivered in my arms, both of us working to calm down from our release, I professed my love to her in soft whispers. I didn't know if she even heard any of it, but I felt the need to tell her. I kissed her neck one last time before setting her down on her feet. I grabbed her shampoo and washed her hair for her, gently massaging her scalp. Then I washed her body, just like I had done on the first night in the hotel. I made sure to rinse away all the soap. I kissed her on the forehead. "You had better go find Alice now, love." "I love you, Edward," she said, giving me a quick hug. "I love you, Bella." She smiled at me one more time as she closed the shower door. I shook my head and chuckled to myself. How had I ended up with such an angel? She was so perfect. She was charming, stunning, witty, brave, and so unbelievably loving. Not to mention insanely gorgeous. I finished up my own shower and then quickly dressed. I chose a pair of jeans and a white button up shirt. I felt it had the best chance of passing Alice's fashion standards.

I threw on my favorite pair of sneakers. Comfortable shoes were a necessity for a long night of dancing and keeping Bella on her feet. I wondered how Alice and Rose would dress her this time. I remembered her last outfit vividly. I chuckled as I shook my head. I needed to get downstairs and those thoughts would only cause trouble. I took the stairs two at a time, anxious to see my Bella again. The girls hadn't come out of Alice's room yet. Jasper and Emmett were having another Halo competition between themselves. I watched them play for a few minutes before getting bored. I wandered over to my piano. I pressed lightly on a few keys, trying to decide if I had enough time to really play. I hated not getting in at least two complete songs. I sighed as I sat at the bench. I wanted to play. They would just have to wait on me. I started off with my mother's favorite piece. I closed my eyes and thought about her and my father. My mother was truly a wonderful woman. Hindsight was certainly as clear as everyone claimed. I had been unintentionally cruel to her over the last few years in an attempt to protect her. She only wanted to love me and I had refused her touch time and again. Instead of getting aggravated with me, she had simply waited for me to come around. Bella had opened my eyes and my heart. My father I held the utmost respect for him, but I had no desire to be him. I didn't want to see my family as ships passing in the night. I knew he saved lives and I was proud of him, but I had also missed him growing up. I knew if Bella did decide to marry me, I would not go to medical school. I would find something else to do. Maybe I could teach piano somewhere. I finished my mother's piece and moved on to my newest. This was the final I was keeping from Bella. I was too nervous to let her know about it yet. I didn't know how she would react to it If she would even like it. I had thought she did when I had first hummed it to her and she had fallen right to sleep. But during her span of nightmares, it had hardly done anything to comfort her. Then again, it had been the only thing to bring her any sort of relief. This was Bella's song, her lullaby. When I had first met her, I had such a strong desire to hug her and couldn't place why I would feel that way. I didn't know her well enough to hug her physically, so I'd written her a musical hug. I wondered once again what she would think of it if I played it for her. As I opened my eyes, I realized I was about to find out.

Bella was leaning against the doorway, her arms wrapped around her small frame. She was smiling tenderly at me and her eyes held nothing but love and admiration. She slowly walked over to me, opening her arms and showing me her outfit. "How do I look, Tutor-boy?" she asked, straddling my piano bench. I smiled my best smile, just for her. "You look irresistible, Bella." I leaned in and kissed her softly. "What were you just playing?" she asked, taking my hand in hers. "Do you recognize it?" I questioned, wondering if she had any memory of it at all. "Parts of it sounded familiar, but I think it must be my imagination. I certainly would have remembered hearing something so beautiful. Is it something of yours?" The sincerity shining in her eyes gave me the courage I needed to tell her about this piece. "Yes," I replied, smiling at her and running a hand down her soft chestnut hair. "It's the composition I wrote for my final. And you remember parts of it because I often hum it to you while you're sleeping. It sometimes calms you down when you're agitated by your dreams." "Sometimes?" I smiled sadly at her. "It didn't do much for you when you were having trouble sleeping." "Oh. I'm sure that has more to do with my freaky brain than your song. It's very beautiful, Edward." "It doesn't even compare to the person who inspired it." "Don't keep me in suspense," she said, wrapping both of her hands around mine. "Who inspired it?" I chuckled at her. She truly had no idea. I kissed her quickly and said, "You, Silly Bella." "Don't be absurd, Edward!" she laughed, playfully slapping my chest. "Tell me the truth." "I am telling you the truth, Bella," I said. I put my hands on her hips and scooted her down the bench so I could hug her. "It's your lullaby."

She stared up at me, her brown eyes wide with disbelief. "You wrote me a song, Edward?" "Yes. And it earned me an excellent grade if you'll remember." "Why didn't you ever let me hear it before now?" I shrugged. "I wasn't sure if you would like it." "You are so gifted with your music. Why do you doubt yourself so much?" "Do you remember what I said to you the first night we stayed up talking on the phone?" She smiled brightly at me. "You said music was the one thing youdesired to be good at. Is that why, Edward? Is it hard for you to know if it's good because of your passion for it?" I nodded by head. Her observations were always so accurate. "That's okay!" she said, kissing my palm. "I'll help you to know. That piece was the most beautiful music I've ever heard and I feel very special knowing you wrote it just for me. You can play all of your music for me and I'll tell you how it truly sounds." "I think you'll be a little biased," I chuckled. "Maybe slightly, but I would never lie and you know that." "Yes, I do." I kissed her forehead. "Did you hear the entire piece?" "No. I came in during the middle. Play it for me now." "Are you sure?" "Please, Edward!" I smiled at her. I set my fingers over the keys and started playing her lullaby again. She moved on the bench so she was sitting next to me and resting against my side. I heard her sigh and it made me smile. I had become very familiar with her sounds. I knew that was a sigh of contentment. She really did like it. As I finished her song, I looked up to see Alice and the others in the doorway.

"Finally!" Alice chirped. "I was wondering when you were going to play that for her!" "How did you know about it?" I asked. I was certain I had never played it when Alice was paying attention. "I see everything, Edward," Alice said, winking at me. "You should know that by now." "Clue the rest of us in," Rose said, poking Alice in the shoulder with one finger. "Bella," Alice called. Bella sat up straight and smiled brightly. I could understand where the expression 'earto-ear grin' came from. She was radiant in her happiness. "It's my lullaby. Edward wrote it for me. Isn't it beautiful?" "Aren't you a little old for lullabies, Squirt?" Emmett said with a chuckle. Bella poked her tongue at him. "You're just jealous!" "Yes, because I want some baby song written for me," Emmett shot back. "I don't think a lullaby is just for a baby," Rose said. "I think it's for anyone who needs comforting." "Was that your top secret final, Edward?" Jasper asked. I nodded my head. "I can see why you got the grade you did. It really does have a comforting feel to it." "Thank you, Jasper," I replied. "Stand up there, Squirt," Emmett said, waving his arms at Bella. "Let me see your outfit now so I can get over the shock of it." "It's not even bad," Bella laughed, as she stood up. I watched as the shirt rose, showing a sliver of her perfectly flat stomach. I quickly turned my head away, not wanting Emmett to catch me staring at Bella. I was filled with the irrational conviction he would know Bella and I were no longer innocent in that way. I was sure his realization would quickly be followed by his fists.

"Oh, that's not bad at all," Emmett said. "Are we ready to head out?" "Edward?" Alice asked. She knew how I liked to play more than one piece. I nodded my head to her. "Perfect. Each couple will take a car in case anyone gets tired early," Alice said. Bella and I walked to the coat closet together. I pulled out her jacket and helped her put it on. I threw on my own then took her hand in mine. We were the first out of the house. I opened her door and she climbed in, smiling up at me. I got in the car and smiled as it started, loving the way the engine barely made noise. "So you like this car?" Bella giggled. "You knew that already," I chuckled. I backed up and waited for Alice to pull ahead of me. "You're going to hang onto me and make sure I don't end up in another cast, right?" "Yes, love. I will hold tightly to you and protect you." "Good. What's it like in a club?" "Most are slightly congested with people. There is usually an area with tables and booths for those who prefer to watch or need a break. I believe the one we're going to tonight has sofas." "Do you think Alice would let me get away with just sitting at first? I'm a little nervous." "I will make sure of it." "Thank you, Edward." "Anything for you, Bella."

Chapter 52 - Night Out

"So how often do you go dancing with everyone?" I asked Edward, as he followed Alice through the busy streets. "Not very. It's one of the more boring activities she forces me to go along with. There's not much to do when you aren't dancing. It's too dark to read and too loud to think," Edward replied. "You just watched?" I asked, staring at him. "Yes. Why do you seem shocked?" "It's just you're so good at it! I just thought you would have been dancing."

"This type of dance requires a partner, Bella." "I know that, but Alice told me about all the blind dates she used to make you go on. Not to mention all of the girls that must have thrown themselves at you, trying to get you to dance." Edward chuckled. "From your statement, I know she didn't tell you what would happen when I arrived to discover it was a date." I turned in my seat to see his face better. This sounded like it was going to be good. "What would you do? I know you wouldn't have been rude to the girl seeing as the gentleman in you would know it wasn't her fault." "Bella," he chuckled. "You really are observant." "You tell me that a lot." "You prove it a lot." "Back to the story!" I said, waving my hand at him. "My personal favorite was excusing myself to the restroom and never returning. Sometimes, I would make my phone go off and pretend I had an emergency requiring me to leave immediately. Alice once tried to stop me, guessing my plan, so I accidentally, on purpose, knocked my drink onto my clothing. She was quite angry that time."

I laughed and clapped my hands. "Alice and you are so entertaining! It's like a battle of two steel wills. In this corner, the little pixie of pushiness and over here, the world's most stubborn man!" "Why am I so stubborn?" "You know you are!" "When have I been stubborn with you?" "Just because you haven't shown it to me, doesn't mean I haven't seen it." I pointed to myself. "Observant!" "I'm not nearly as stubborn as you, love." "I know!" I laughed. "I don't think anyone is!" Alice turned into a parking garage and Edward followed right behind her. Rose was behind us. I waited patiently for Edward to come around and open my door. He held his hand out and I took it. "You're really spoiling me with the doors and the chairs and everything," I whispered to him as he wrapped an arm around my waist. Edward kissed the tip of my nose. "This is only the beginning, love. We have a lifetime ahead for me to spoil and pamper you even more." "Are you excited, Bella?" Alice asked, as she bounced between me and Jasper. "Sort of," I said, smiling at her. "It'll be fine," Rose assured me. "You'll have a great time, Bella." Emmett pushed his way between Alice and me. "I have just a few quick rules for you, Squirt. Don't go off on your own. Don't accept drinks from strangers. Don't let any drinks you order out of your sight. And if anyone messes with you, knee them, stomp their foot, and yell for me." "Should I be worried?" I asked, looking up at Edward. "Emmett's just making sure you're prepared," Edward said, hugging me tighter against his side. "Not everyone has noble intentions."

"Since you've already promised not to leave my side tonight, I'm pretty sure your intentions are the only ones I'll need to worry about," I whispered to him. He chuckled and kissed my cheek. "You might be safe then." I laughed as I wrapped my arms tightly around his waist. Rosalie and Emmett walked right up to the door, completely ignoring the long line. I saw the bouncer at the door smile and nod at them as he opened the door wide. The bouncer was really tall and was almost as muscled as Emmett. He had dark skin and long black hair that was neatly tied back. His eyes were black and seemed to see everything at once. He nodded again as Jasper and Alice walked in. When we got close, he smiled at me and held his hand out to Edward. Edward grabbed it and shook it. "Good evening, Jacob." "Been too long, Edward. I see you finally brought your own date for a change," Jacob joked. "I was able to avoid Alice's matchmaking attempts long enough to meet this beautiful woman," Edward replied, moving me in front of him. "Bella, this is Jacob. Jacob, this is my lovely Bella." I blushed both at the compliment and the way he had made it clear I was his. "Nice to meet you, Bella," Jacob said, shaking my hand. "Edward's a pretty descent guy. You picked well." "I'll have to come back later, Jacob," Edward said, staring into the dimness of the club. "Alice is not looking very happy with me at the moment," he chuckled. "Say no more," Jacob laughed. "Bella, it was a pleasure to meet you. Edward, make sure you see me before you leave." Edward nodded to Jacob as he pulled me into the club. Alice was tapping her foot and had her little arms crossed in front of her chest. Jasper was trying to talk to her. "Alice, calm down." "You are not spending all night talking to Jacob again!" Alice fumed. "I only did that because you had tricked me with another date," Edward argued.

I stood between them and put a hand on each of their shoulders. "Alice, relax. Edward was just introducing me." "Sorry, Bella," Alice said, pulling me into a quick hug. "The last time we came, Edward spent all night outside with Jacob and the two of them very nearly got arrested." I spun around to look at Edward. "You did something bad enough to get almostarrested?" Edward grinned wickedly. "There was a minor incident with a very drunk man who wanted to pick a fight with Jacob. I may have had my foot out a little too far and the unstable drunk may have fallen over it and met the sidewalk with his face." "That sounds more like something Emmett would do," I chuckled, wrapping my arms around Edward. "Come on!" Alice said, tugging on Edward's arm. "I'll show you where we are sitting and then we can go dance." Alice led us up a set of stairs and into a darkened area with a long black leather couch. The entire dance floor could be seen from here. I easily spotted Emmett and Rosalie dancing together. Edward sat on the couch and pulled me down next to him. "No sitting!" Alice ordered. "It's time to dance." "We will join you in a moment," Edward said firmly. "I want to talk to Bella about something. We'll be right down, I promise." Alice smiled and walked off with Jasper. "Well, that was easy," I remarked. "It was rather odd of her. There's no telling what devious scheme is running through her brain," Edward chuckled. "But at least you are getting the chance to sit as you requested." "Thank you, Edward," I said, leaning against his chest. "So how did you meet, Jacob?" "Jacob and I know each other in passing through Alice and Rosalie. Once they find a club they like, they make a point of befriending all of the bouncers. It gives them free bodyguards and they never have to wait in line. I was bored one night and went out for some fresh air, and Jacob was at the door. We struck up a conversation about the

music pouring out of the club. After that, I made it a point to always go out and chat with him." "He seems like an interesting person. We'll have to sneak away from Alice and go talk to him later." I looked around us, noticing just how dark it was up here. It was hard to see anything beyond the ends of the sofa. "You were right about this place," I said, looking up at Edward. "Definitely too dark to see and too loud to think. I can feel the music in my feet!" I wiggled my boots as I looked down at them. They were the most comfortable pair of shoes I owned, even with the heel on them. Rose and Alice had given them to me tonight, along with the jeans I was wearing and the shirt. They said it was my first true adult outfit. The jeans were dark blue and hung low on my hips. The shirt was black and tight, with the word 'sexy' barely visible. The gap between the shirt and jeans showed off just a little of my flat stomach when I stood. It really did look nice on me. Edward placed his finger under my chin and titled my face up to his. He softly kissed each of my cheeks. "What are you doing?" I asked, chuckling. His kisses had tickled. "Nothing," he whispered before kissing my lips. "I'm just kissing my beautiful girlfriend," he added, kissing along my neck. "Aren't you supposed to be afraid of Emmett coming up here and catching you?" I chuckled. "There's no bedroom door to protect you now." I assumed the fiery kiss he planted on my lips was his answer. I really didn't see how he could possibly make his intentions any clearer, but then he slid his tongue into my mouth and it was crystal. I chuckled in my head at my random thoughts. Even if Edward could read minds, I bet he still wouldn't be able to read mine. I hardly knew what was going on up there half the time. I was barely breathing by the time Edward released me from the kiss. "Guess you're not worried anymore," I panted. Edward gave me a wicked grin before pressing his lips to mine once again. His hands found their way under my shirt as they roamed across my back, pulling me even closer to him. His tongue worked its magic against mine as I fought hard to keep breathing. My own hands found their way into his hair, which seemed to be their favorite destination. No complaints from my end!

"Are you ready to try dancing with me, love?" he whispered against my ear, his own breathing ragged. I nodded my head. I didn't have enough breath in my lungs to speak. Edward led me down the stairs and out onto the floor. "Can you dance to this music?" he asked. "I know a little, but you'll have to help me." He smiled as he put his hands against my hips, right between my jeans and my shirt. I jumped from the contact. He chuckled at my reaction. "You're too far away," he said as he pulled me closer, until there was no gap between our bodies. He gently pushed on my hips, helping me to find the correct rhythm for the music. I rested my hands on his shoulders and stared up at him, watching all of his emotions run through his beautiful, green eyes. The one emotion that was constant was his love for me. It made me feel like my own heart would burst from happiness. Edward loved me. That was more than I could have ever asked for. Those hands of his never stopped roaming across my bare skin! If he wasn't holding my hips, he was rubbing my lower back. When he wasn't doing those things, he was trailing his fingers just below my belly button, knowing full well how sensitive my skin was right there. I tried glaring at him, but each time, I was met with a kiss that made me forget why I was upset in the first place. My mind kept trying to tell me there was something I needed to be concerned about, but I couldn't focus long enough to figure it out. There was only Edward, his hands and his lips. Not to mention his dazzling, green eyes! They flickered with desire every time his lips came close to mine, which ended up being fairly often throughout the night! By the time I finally convinced Edward I needed a break, I was close to passing out. I was no longer sure if my dizzy state was from his kisses, our closeness, or just the exhaustion of dancing for hours. He led me back up to the private area. I sighed happily as I sat down and took the weight off my feet. "Are you enjoying yourself?" "Too much," I sighed, leaning into him.

Edward chuckled, placing a kiss on the top of my head. "I love you, Bella." "You've been making that perfectly clear. And I love you, too." Alice and Rose came up a few minutes later. "Bella," Alice said. "Why don't you come with us to the restroom?" I wanted to protest for the sake of my feet, but I didn't get a chance to respond. They had my arms locked in theirs as they pulled me away from Edward. "What are you doing?" I asked, trying to look at both of them. I felt like I was in the middle of some crazy tennis match. "We need to talk," Alice said. "Do we ever!" Rose added. I waited until we were in the bathroom before saying anything more. I had a feeling I knew what this was going to be about, but I was really hoping I was wrong. This was that thing I was supposed to be concerned about. As soon as we were through the door, Alice was closing it and locking it. "Isabella Marie Swan!" she scolded. I cringed at the use of my full name. "Yes, Alice?" "Is there something my brother and you may have forgotten to mention?" Alice asked, stalking towards me. "Nope!" I replied. "Nothing that I know of. Why?" "She's being coy," Rose chuckled. "How cute! Bella, honey, we aren't blind." "Or stupid!" Alice chirped. "I really don't know what you two are talking about," I said, hoping they would believe me. "You're a horrible liar," Alice chuckled. "Spill it, Bella!" Rose demanded, folding her arms over her chest. Her grin was rather wicked.

"How do you even know?" I whined, as I admitted my defeat. "There is no way my brother would be dancing that way with you if things haven't changed in your relationship," Alice replied. I looked down at the floor. Alice moved next to me, lifting my chin up. "Bella, we aren't upset. I'm sorry if we gave you that impression. Rose and I just want to make sure you're okay. Do you have any questions or need anything?" I looked at them both and I could see they were telling the truth. "I'm fine. I swear." "When?" Rose asked. I debated on whether or not I should draw this out and decided against it. The sooner I confessed, the sooner I could get back to Edward. "The other night after he gave me my ring." "How did we not see this?" Alice chuckled as she hugged me. "You guys were slightly busy tending to an enraged Emmett," I replied. "Speaking of which " "Bella, this is strictly between us. Emmett does not want or need to know," Rose said. "So you're completely okay?" Alice asked. I nodded my head. "Did you have protection? Are you going to tell Edward that we know?" I blushed. I knew she was only asking out of her concern, but I still felt a little weird talking about these things with anyone, besides Edward. "Yes and yes. I wouldn't want to take the chance of him hearing while I'm dreaming. I'm sure my current level of embarrassment will bring me at least a couple of dreams." "You are setting a new shade of red," Rose chuckled. "Well, have fun and be careful," Alice said, hugging me once again. "None of us are ready to become aunts and uncles and Carlisle would have a massive coronary!"

"Believe me!" I laughed. "I am not becoming someone's mother anytime soon! I want to finish college way too much. Not to mention Emmett would kill Edward and me. I'd like to keep Edward around a while longer before I leave him at the mercy of my brother." "Let's get you back to Edward," Rose said, pulling me toward the door. "Just between us, right?" I asked, as Alice unlocked the door and opened it. "Absolutely," Rose and Alice said together. As we walked back toward our table, I wondered just how much Emmett would find out on his own. I really did not want to deal with him knowing right now. I knew he would figure it out eventually, but as long as he wanted to think I was innocent, I would let him. No need to change his world view anymore than I already had. Edward got up from the sofa and pulled me into a hug as soon as he saw me. "Are you okay? Do you need to get some air?" "I'm fine. Why?" "Bella, you're completely red." "Oh, well it is hot in here. I think some air would be nice." Edward turned to Alice. "I'm going to step outside with Bella. We'll be back shortly." "Give my regards to Jacob," Alice said as she waved at us. As we got closer to the door and the cool air outside, Edward leaned down to me and whispered into my ear. "They know, don't they?" I nodded my head. Edward hugged me tighter. "There you are!" Jacob laughed as we stepped outside. "I was wondering if you left while I was on break. You don't usually stay inside so long." "I've never had the pleasure of Bella's company before. How is your night going, Jacob?" Edward asked, wrapping his arms around me and pulling me against his chest. He rested his chin on my shoulder. "Pretty good so far," Jacob said, scanning the long line of people. "No drunks yet."

"I hear you're a bad influence on Edward," I said as I put my hand against Edward's cheek. Jacob smiled, flashing his very white teeth. "What's life without a little danger and a chance of arrest?" I smiled while Edward chuckled low in my ear. Jacob looked up at Edward and smiled even wider. "Look at that!" His arm shot out and my hand was suddenly in his. He was staring at my ring. "It's got you written all over it, Edward. You two are pretty serious then?" Edward took my hand from Jacob and kissed my finger, just below the ring. He stared at me as he answered his friend. "I'm going to make her my wife one day." The conviction and honesty in his eyes nearly knocked me over. I was amazed all over again at my luck at having Edward in my life, loving me this way. I only hoped I made him feel a fraction of how he made me feel.

Chapter 53 - Long Night "I don't think I want to go dancing very often," Bella announced. I was stretched across my sofa, reading over my essay for one of my music classes. I looked up to see her drying her hair in the bathroom doorway. "Why is that, love?" "You have to take a shower before and after. I have too much hair for that." I chuckled at her. "Didn't you have any fun?" "Of course I had fun. You were with me." She walked closer to me, noticing the paper in my hands. "What are doing?" "Going over my essay. It's due Monday." "Why didn't you say something? Just letting me ramble on and interrupt Shame on you, Tutor-boy!" She smiled and gave me a quick kiss. "I'll go finish this in the bathroom. We can talk after you're done."

I started reading my paper again. I got through two more sentences and then was interrupted by a knock at my door. "Come in." Alice poked her head into the room. "Got a minute?" "Sure," I said, smiling at her. "Where's Bella?" Alice asked. "Drying her hair," I replied. "Oh," Alice said as she walked across the room. I sat up, making room for her. She smiled as she sat down and grabbed one of my hands. "We're having a movie marathon tomorrow afternoon. I'm going to do the full range: comedy, drama, action, romance." "Sounds interesting," I said, suddenly getting the feeling my sister was stalling. "Think of it as another excuse to cuddle with Bella," Alice chirped. "So talk to you about something." I wanted to

"I thought I was well-behaved tonight," I said, giving her an innocent smile. "You were," she chuckled. "I am completely amazed at the changes I've seen since you met Bella. It really is wonderful, Edward." "If it's so wonderful, Ali, why are you sad?" I asked, rubbing her shoulder. "I'm not sad, not really. Only slightly. But this is a really good thing and oh, the hell with it!" she cried, throwing her hands in the air. "Jasper found a condo in the city and asked me to move in with him." Her earlier expression made perfect sense now. She was still worried about me. I pulled her into a hug. "I'm very happy for you, Alice. Does Jasper know what he's getting himself into?" "I doubt it," she laughed. "He's given me complete decorating freedom of the entire place."

"He certainly doesn't know then!" I chuckled. "Have you told our parents?" "Not yet," Alice sighed, pulling away from me and looking up into my face. "Jasper just asked me this afternoon and then we all went out, so I haven't had an opportunity yet." "You know mom will expect to see a ring on your finger," I warned. "She'll just have to get over it," she shrugged. "Any particular reason why he hasn't asked you?" I questioned. "He doesn't need to. We both know how we feel about each other. We don't need rings or a piece of paper to tell us," she replied. "We're just not into that. Not that there's anything wrong with it. And I'm sure we'll get around to it one day. But for now, we like things just the way they are. Except for the going home alone part, which the condo will certainly fix." "What will you do without your trusty credit card?" I asked with a grin. "I haven't a clue," she sighed dramatically. She looked up and smiled at me, saying, "But Jasper suggested I look into working at one of the boutiques in the city. He mentioned employee discounts!" "It certainly won't be the same without you here, Ali," I told her. I knew she could see in my eyes that I would really miss her. "I'm sure you'll manage," she said, smiling at me. "I'm leaving you in Bella's very capable hands." My sister paused then looked at me with a hardly ever seen serious expression. "She really does love you, Edward. I hope you know that." "I do and I love her just as deeply," I replied. "Um there's one more thing. But you have to keep it to yourself for the moment," Alice whispered, leaning in close to me. "Emmett and Rose made a decision about where they're going to live." "Is that why Jasper decided to find a condo now?" I whispered back. "Yes. He knows Rose loves the house and he wants her to make it all her own," she replied. "I just wanted to give you fair warning. I'm worried Bella's nightmares will come back."

"God I hope that doesn't happen." I ran a hand through my hair. I didn't know how I would handle watching her in that much pain again. My sister knew what I was thinking. She put her hand on my arm and rubbed it, trying to comfort me. "Maybe it won't." "When is Emmett going to tell her?" "Tomorrow night sometime," she answered. I nodded my head. I hoped he would be careful with his words and not make a bunch of jokes. Bella tended to play off of what others said. If Emmett messed around, Bella would give it right back, masking her true feelings. "So I had a rather interesting chat with Bella," my sister smirked. "I know. She told me," I said. "You two hide it very well. If I hadn't seen you dancing, I wouldn't have known," she remarked. "Is there a particular reason you're hiding it?" "We aren't necessarily hiding it, but we aren't trying to let the world know either. But there's a particular person that needs to be considered. He's about six-foot-four and has muscles the size of my head," I replied. "He'll figure it out eventually," Alice warned. "Yes, but hopefully by that time, Bella will be ready for it," I said. "Ready for what?" Bella asked, as she came out of the bathroom. "Emmett," Alice answered. "Oh!" Bella nodded as she sat down on my lap and rested against my chest. "Well, you kids look tired," Alice said as she stood. "Edward, you better lock your door if you plan on sleeping in tomorrow morning. Otherwise, mother will be in here trying to drag you down for breakfast bright and early. She's having her garden club over. You know how they adore your playing!" "Thank you for the warning," I replied. "Would you lock it as you go?"

"I guess I can do that for you," Alice sighed dramatically. "Consider it my parting gift to you." I laughed as I watched her flick the lock and close the door tightly. "What did she mean by parting gift?" Bella asked, running her fingers down my arm. "Jasper asked Alice to move in with him. They're going to live in a condo in the city," I explained. "When did that happen?" "Earlier today. Alice was just telling me about it. She also said she plans on having a small movie marathon tomorrow afternoon." "Should be fun," Bella replied. Her tone was flat and it bothered me. I lifted her face to mine. "What are you thinking?" "Just wondering if Jasper is moving out so Emmett can move in." "Wondering or worrying?" "A bit of both." I turned so I was lying on the couch with Bella on top of me. I rubbed her back gently, hoping to comfort her. "Bella, I promise you won't be alone, no matter what Emmett decides." "I know. I have you," she sighed, as she hugged me tightly. "Did you have fun tonight, Edward?" "Absolutely. I got to hold you close the entire night." "I liked how you introduced me to Jacob." "Do you prefer 'lovely' to 'beautiful'?" "That wasn't the part I was talking about." I knew what she was referring to, but for some reason, I really wanted to hear her say it. "Then what part are you talking about?"

"'My lovely Bella'. I liked the way the 'my' sounded. You were telling him I'm all yours." "You didn't find it to be rather possessive of me?" "Edward, any way you want to possess me is just fine by me." I laughed at her as I twirled a strand of her hair around my fingers. "And here I thought you were so independent." "I am independent. Never forget that, Tutor-boy. But it doesn't mean it's not nice to know you belong to someone. And who wouldn't want to belong to someone as wonderful as you?" "You do know the way you view me is ludicrous, right?" "You're one to talk! You're the one constantly telling me you've never seen anyone more beautiful than me." "That, my love, is nothing but the absolute truth." "We could argue this for hours and still never agree," Bella chuckled. "I think we should go to sleep instead. My mother may decide to simply knock on my door until I open it. You can never tell with her. And I doubt Alice will appreciate it if we fall asleep during her movie marathon." "Okay," Bella yawned. "Just a minute." I chuckled at her. "If I give you a minute, you'll be asleep right here on top of me." "You make it sound like that would be a bad thing." "Bella," I groaned. "You know this sofa is not long enough for me. Please get up." "Oh, fine, you big baby!" She giggled as she got up and jumped onto our bed. I went after her, knocking her further into the mattress. "Got you!" Bella smiled her wicked little grin at me. "And now that you have me, Edward, what are you going to do with me?"

"Nothing tonight!" I laughed. "Between our earlier escapade and keeping you on your feet all night, I'm exhausted." "Aren't men your age supposed to be insatiable?" "Aren't you supposed to be blushing by now?" I chuckled as her cheeks turned red. I reached out a hand and stroked her cheek. "There it is! I was beginning to think I'd lost my touch!" "Oh, shut up, Tutor-boy!" Bella said, hitting me with a pillow. I chuckled as I put the pillow back down. I took her little body into my arms and snuggled close with her. "I love you, Bella." She kissed the tip of my nose. "I love you, Edward. With all my heart." She moved so her nose was pressed against my neck. I felt her take a deep breath. "Edward," she whispered. "Yes, love?" "Would you hum my lullaby for me?" "Anything for you, love." I softly hummed to her while stroking her hair. She was more exhausted than she had let on. She was deeply asleep within minutes. I followed soon after, thinking of how wonderful she felt in my arms. Sometime later, I woke up to find Bella was no longer with me. I sat up and found her sitting in front of the large window, staring up at the moon. She was wearing one of my shirts and she had her arms and legs hiding under it. I got up and grabbed the throw blanket I kept in here for her. I sat behind her, wrapping her up between the blanket and myself. I held her to me, kissing her hair. "What are you doing up, love?" I whispered to her. "I was looking at the moon. It's very bright tonight." "What woke you?"

"I wasn't having very nice dreams." I put my hand under her shirt to rub her legs. "Bella! You're freezing! How long have you been sitting here?" She shrugged, but didn't say anything. "Stay right here," I ordered, pressing on her shoulders to show her how serious I was. I ran into the bathroom and started running a bath for her, getting the water as hot as I thought she could stand it. I stalked back into the bedroom and picked her up, carrying her to the tub. She winced as she tried to stand up. She'd obviously been sitting in that one position for a long while. I gave her the most disapproving look I could as I helped her out of her clothes and into the tub. "I'll be right back. Do not get out of that water until you warm up." She only nodded at me. I found her flannel pajamas and took them downstairs. I tossed them into the dryer and slammed the door shut. I turned the machine on then stomped into the kitchen. I stopped and took a deep breath. If I started tossing around things down here, I would wake my parents. I grabbed the tea kettle and filled it with water. I put it on the stove then found my mother's tea bags. I grabbed a cup from the cabinet and put a bag into it. I leaned against the counter, waiting for the kettle to whistle. I thought of what I could and should say to Bella. I thought about calling Emmett and getting him over here to talk to her. But then I realized that would make things worse because Bella would be too embarrassed to talk. The kettle whistled and I pulled it from the stove. I poured it into the cup then dunked the tea bag in the water. When I was done with that, I took the cup and went back to the laundry room. I grabbed her pajamas from the dryer and headed back upstairs. I kept reminding myself to be calm. I wasn't angry with her, just the situation, but I knew Bella would think it was directed at her. She was just getting out of the tub when I entered the bathroom. "Feeling better?" She nodded her head.

"I made you some tea, but you should put your pajamas on while they're still warm from the dryer." She took them from me and put them on without a word. I think she knew I was furious, but I doubted if she really knew why. I took her hand and led her to the bed, tucking the covers tightly around her before handing her the mug of tea. "Please try to drink it all," I said, forcing my voice to be soft for her. She took the mug in one hand and grabbed my hand with the other. She wouldn't look at me, though. She just stared into the cup between sips. When she was done, I took the mug from her and set it on the bedside table. "You could get really sick from this," I said, rubbing circles into her hand with my thumb. "It's not healthy to let yourself get that cold, Bella." "It wasn't on purpose. I lost track of time, that's all." "What were you thinking about so hard that you didn't notice you were cold?" "I was trying to convince myself it's silly for me to keep having the nightmares. Especially since the things I see aren't real." I moved my head so she had to look at me. I smiled at her. "How did that work out for you?" She sighed, but still returned my smile. "Not very well. I seem to have awoken and angered someone I care deeply about." "Do you know why I'm angry, Bella?" I asked, moving a strand of hair behind her ear. "Because I got so cold?" "No, Bella. I'm upset you left me sleeping instead of letting me help you." "I don't understand that at all," Bella said, shaking her head. "What's not to understand? I love you. I don't want you upset and I want to make everything better for you as best as I can. Bella, if this were the other way around, would you be okay with me letting you sleep while something was troubling me?" "Absolutely not!" she cried.

"So why would you think I deserve your comfort, but you don't deserve mine?" "I'm just not used to it, Edward." "I can understand that. But from this point forward, it's no longer a valid excuse, Bella." She nodded her head, lowering her eyes. I lifted her chin up so she was once again looking at me. "Would you like to try sleeping again or would you rather stay up?" From the drowsy look in her eyes, I knew which choice I wanted her to make, but this was her choice. "I think I should try sleeping again." I moved next to her under the covers and pulled her into my arms. Her back rested comfortably against my chest. I locked my fingers together so I would know if she got up again. I rested my head against hers. Her cheek was still warm from her bath. I kissed it softly. "I love you so much, Bella. Please know that and please let me be here for you. I want to be here for you." "I promise, I'll try," she whispered. I hummed to her until I knew she was in a deep sleep. I forced myself to stay awake for a long while just to make sure she wouldn't have anymore dreams. It had been a long night though and I lost the battle much sooner than I wanted to. As I was pulled under, I momentarily wondered if I had relocked the door.

Chapter 54 - Garden Club - You guys get 4 chapters since these all go together. I was having a dream about Edward. Nothing new there! But this time, we were on a beach. Edward was in a pair of blue jeans with his white, button-up shirt wide open. I was in a white sundress. We were getting married! Emmett and Rose were there smiling at us. Jasper and Alice kept taking pictures. Carlisle and Esme were standing to the side and it looked like Esme was crying. But the odd thing was that Charlie and Renee were there, too. They just kept smiling and nodding at me.

I was pulled out of this very strange dream by someone loudly whispering Edward's name and shaking him. Since he was holding me so tightly, the person was shaking me as well. I was nowhere near ready to wake up and I couldn't stop the very loud groan from escaping me as I tried to turn in Edward's arms. It was pretty useless, especially since it made him tighten his grip. I started laughing, remembering the last time I had been trapped in bed by my gorgeous boyfriend. I'd been in a cast, unable to get him off of my stomach. "Bella, dear! Are you okay?" I slowly opened my eyes to see Esme peering at me. I smiled at her. "Yes, Esme. I'm laughing because your son has me in a death grip. Are you trying to wake him up?" "I was, but it doesn't seem to be going very well. My Garden Club will be here within the hour and I was really hoping he would play, and you would come down and meet them," Esme said, optimism shining in her green eyes. "I will give it my best effort, but please don't be upset with him if it doesn't work out. We had a rather long night last night because of me," I said. I quickly held my hands up to get her to hold back her comment. "Nothing to worry about, but he's exhausted. I'll see if I can wake him up for you." "Are you sure you're okay, Bella?" Esme asked. "You can talk to me about anything, you know." "I know. I promise, I'm fine," I replied. "Alright, dear. I'll hopefully see you downstairs soon," Esme said as she left, closing the door behind her. I let my head fall back against Edward's arm. I stared at his beautiful face, lightly tracing his eyebrows and nose with my index finger. I ran my finger over his lips and he stirred slightly. I did it again and watched a grin spread across his lips. I wondered what he was dreaming about. I managed to turn enough to get a hand up to his head. I gently ran by fingers back and forth through his soft hair. "Edward. I need you to wake up for a moment." "In a minute," he mumbled, burying his face against my neck.

I giggled at him. "No, Edward. I need you to wake up now. I need to talk to you." "Is it really morning all ready?" he sighed. His tone verified he was awake enough to understand me. "Yes, it's morning. Very early morning. Esme wants to know if you'll play for her Garden Club. I told her I would see what I could do, but warned her that you would probably be too tired." "Garden Club!" Edward groaned. His breath against my neck tickled and I giggled again. "Finding something funny, Bella?" "Your breath tickled me!" "Why is it you got less sleep than me, but sound so much more rested?" "Don't know, Tutor-boy. Would it help you at all if I went downstairs and got you a nice big cup of coffee?" "Is there any way to convince you to go down the road and get me a very strong espresso?" "I think a kiss would more than cover my costs," I whispered. "I think I can manage enough energy for that. Would you please take the Volvo so I won't worry about you breaking down somewhere?" "If you don't stop making fun of my truck, I'm going to introduce it to the rear end of your Volvo." Edward's head shot up and his eyes were wide as he stared at me. Those green eyes were also very bloodshot. Guilt washed over me, knowing I had caused his eyes to look that way. "You wouldn't!" "You know I would never really do that." I put my hand on his cheek and forced him to lie down again. "Close your eyes. I'm sorry I kept you up last night." "Not your fault," Edward mumbled against my neck. "If only Esme would cancel her club for the day."

"That's not going to happen. So! I'm going to get dressed and go get your coffee. You stay here and sleep until I get back." I slid out of his arms and tucked the blankets around him. I kissed his temple softly, letting my lips linger for a second. "Stay in bed until I get back." He mumbled something, but it was impossible to understand. I had an idea what it was though. I leaned down and whispered softly into his ear. "I love you, too." I threw on my favorite pair of jeans and Edward's black hooded sweatshirt. I ran into the bathroom and brushed my hair into a quick ponytail. I gave my teeth a quick brushing and then ran back into the room, putting my socks and shoes on. I grabbed Edward's car keys from the nightstand and my wallet from my backpack. I made my way down the stairs as quickly as I could without falling. Esme was setting up chairs near the piano. I chuckled and shook my head. "So you obviously have a lot of confidence in me." "My son is not capable of refusing you, Bella," Esme said, winking at me. "We'll see about that," I laughed. "I'm off to get him a coffee in an attempt to lure him from the bed. "Do you want anything?" "No, thank you, dear." I nodded my head and took off out of the door. I ran down the steps and over to the car. I had about forty minutes to get Edward a coffee, get him out of bed and get both of us presentable. I was glad we had taken showers last night before bed. I had to move the seat up a lot in the Volvo. I chuckled to myself, imaging Edward's face when he went to get in the car and saw it. I turned the key and almost missed the fact that it had started. His engine was so quiet and soft compared to the deep rumbling roar of my truck. I made my way down the driveway and turned onto the main road. I pressed down on the gas and the car took off. I chuckled at the adrenaline rush it gave me. It was amazing to drive something so smooth and have it go over fifty-five. I loved my truck, but I could certainly get used to Edward's car.

I carefully pulled up to the drive-thru window and ordered Edward the biggest espresso they made. I carefully set it into the cup holder and headed back to his house. I kept one hand on the coffee and one on the steering wheel. I was afraid if I wasn't touching it, the cup would jump out of the holder and spray his car. I sighed happily as I pulled into the driveway and turned off the car. I had safely accomplished the first part of my mission. I picked up the coffee and carefully climbed out of the car. I did not want to have an accident while holding a large, very hot coffee in my hand. I went into the house and up the stairs. I walked into his room and closed the door quietly behind me. I set the coffee on the night stand and crawled up next to Edward. He had fallen back into a deep sleep. His face was pressed tightly into my pillow with his lips slightly parted. I leaned down and kissed the corner of his mouth. "Edward, I have your coffee." He took a deep breath and rolled over onto his back. "Are you awake?" "Yes," he said softly, not opening his eyes yet. "I hope it's a big coffee." "The biggest they make." Edward opened his arms and I knew what he wanted. I crawled right on top of him and he wrapped his arms around me, both of us sighing happily. "This is nice." "Very," I agreed. "We are never going to make it through Alice's movies." "Maybe we'll be able to sneak off and nap after the club meeting ends." "Hopefully." "Time is running short. You better start drinking your coffee. I have to go start on my hair so I can look presentable." "What are you talking about?"

"I'm being formally introduced

or at least that's how it sounded to me."

"That's most likely how she meant it," Edward chuckled. He moved his arms, releasing his hold on me. "Go, quickly, before I change my mind." I leaned up and kissed his cheek before rolling out of the bed. I went to the closet and found some of the newer clothes Alice had given me. I found a nice jean skirt that looked knee-length. I paired it with a dark blue, long sleeve shirt. I went into the bathroom and let my hair down. I brushed it out all over again and then stared at my reflection, trying to decide what to do with it all. I decided a braid would be best. I took my time, making sure I didn't have a ton of loose pieces hanging all over. I changed into the skirt and shirt and had to admit, it looked really good on me. I came out of the bathroom to find Edward sitting on the edge of his bed. He looked a little more lively, but not much. I went to him and hugged him tightly. "I'm so sorry! Would you like me to tell Esme you're sick?" "No, it's not necessary. I'll be fine. Just give the coffee a chance to kick in." I pulled away slightly and looked at his face. I reached out with my thumbs and gently rubbed the purple splotches under his eyes. "I haven't seen these in a while." Edward just shrugged. I leaned in and kissed him softly. I had planned to make it quick, but he had other plans for me. He pulled me close to him and deepened the kiss, pressing our lips together tightly. I gasped with surprise. Edward expertly took that as his chance to taste my tongue. I could taste the coffee on his breath. I had never been a big fan, but this was tolerable. I suddenly remembered my clothing and forced myself to pull away. "I really don't think we should wrinkle my clothing," I sighed, resting my forehead against his. "I really don't want to change again! Besides, you need to get dressed." "Pick me something out," he sighed, falling back onto the bed again. "I know your vision is probably hazy, Tutor-boy, but I'm not Alice," I laughed. "Just find something you've seen me wear that you like. Please."

"Okay, but only because you're not fully awake yet. Don't get used to me picking out your clothes! I hate picking out my own." "Yes, ma'am!" he chuckled. I went into his closet and found the black jeans and maroon shirt he had worn for Christmas. I took them out and laid them on the bed next to him. "There." He popped open an eye and surveyed the clothes next to him. "Perfect, Bella. Thank you." "You have to get ready now," I said, taking his hands into mine. Edward groaned, but let me pull him up. He held my hands tightly, looking me in the eyes. I was glad to see his eyes weren't as red as before. "Isabella, let's never have a night like that again." "I promise, Edward. I hate seeing you so exhausted and knowing it's my fault." He waved his hand at me. "There are no faults here, Bella. It happened and we're going to make sure it doesn't happen again together. No blame necessary, love." I kissed his cheek and moved over to his sofa so he wouldn't have anymore excuses for not getting dressed. I picked up the essay he had been checking over and started reading it while I waited for him. I was on the last paragraph when he spoke. "Is it any good?" he asked. I held up a finger, letting him know I wasn't done. I finished the last few sentences then looked up at him. He had somehow managed to make himself look extremely presentable. Even with severe lack of sleep, he was sinfully handsome. "It's very good," I told him. "It actually makes me want to find his CDs in your collection and check them out." "How do you know I have his CDs?" "You couldn't write this passionately about his musical style if you hadn't heard it first hand."

"You really are extremely observant, Bella. I really believe you would be an excellent English teacher. Have you ever considered college level before? The students are more serious and there won't be scissors anywhere close by." "Ha, ha, Edward!" I said, rolling my eyes at him. "College level, huh? I hadn't really considered that." I chuckled, "Professor Swan!" "Oh, no!" he said, kneeling down in front of me. He took my hand and kissed the back of it. "By that time, love, you will be ProfessorCullen." I smiled brightly and wrapped my arms tightly around his neck. "I love the sound of that, Edward!" I let him go and kissed the tip of his nose. "You always say the perfect thing to make me feel all mushy inside." He laughed as he stood up. "Come on, my beautiful, mushy Bella. Let's go downstairs and greet the Garden Club." He took my arm and wrapped it around his. He led me down the stairs and into the living room. Some of the ladies had arrived already and were huddled around, talking. Esme looked up and saw us. "There you two are!" Esme waved at us. "Come here for a moment." Edward led me over. I started blushing right away. "Lacy, Shelly, Genevieve, you remember my son, Edward. This beautiful young woman on his arm is Bella. Honey, show them your ring," Esme said in a bubbly voice. I blushed harder and stuck out my left hand, shyly. Esme leaned closer to her friends as if she was going to whisper. "Edward says it's just a promise, but it's an engagement ring, if you ask me." "Mother," Edward said. He was smiling, but his tone was fierce. "Edward, take Bella into the kitchen and grab a quick bite to eat. Then you can play for us. The rest of the club should be here by then," Esme instructed. I pulled Edward along to the kitchen before he could say anything to his mother. As soon as the door closed, I started giggling. "Wow! Your mom is something else!" "That's one way to put it," he sulked.

I wrapped my arms around him and leaned into him as he leaned against the counter. "What's wrong? It's not like she didn't say anything that wasn't true." "She was embarrassing you," he replied. "What?" I laughed. "You thought I was embarrassed being introduced as your possible fiance? You are so silly, Edward! I was embarrassed because everyone was looking at me. I hate being the center of attention. You know that! Your mom can introduce me anyway she wants. It all amounts to the same thing I love you and only you and will only ever be with you." He smiled and it was breathtaking. "I don't think I'll ever hear that enough, Bella." "Well, then allow me to say it again. I love you and only you and will only ever be with you." He leaned down and kissed me sweetly. "Thank you." "For what?" "Loving me the way you do. You make me feel like the luckiest man on Earth." "Just returning the love you give to me." I let him go and pointed at the coffee pot in the corner. "If you need more caffeine, your mom made a pot. If not, I suggest soda, and please get one for me. I'll get us something to eat." He nodded and walked over to the machine. I grabbed two plates and served our breakfast. Edward sat down, putting a soda in front of me. I was surprised to see he'd chosen to have more coffee. We ate in silence at the little kitchen table. He was looking more alert with each sip of his coffee. When we were done, we went to the sink together, to wash and dry our dishes. I was feeling playful so I leaned over and bumped my hip into his. He smirked at me and repeated my action. I giggled as I did it to him again. "You know, it's probably a bad idea to do this," he chuckled as he bumped into me for the second time. "With your clumsiness, you'll probably end up with a broken hip somehow!" "Hey!" I yelled. "I haven't had a single accident since the ankle thing, which occurred because you scared me."

"Which occurred because you had an accident and covered yourself in flour!" he replied. "Yeah, yeah!" I said, waving a hand at him. "Time to go back out there. How many people are in this club anyway?" "Twenty or more," he shrugged. I nearly choked! Twenty or more people staring at me! What a morning! I took a deep breath and grabbed Edward's arm for support. He leaned down and kissed my cheek. "Stick with me and it'll be fine. If you let my mother get you away from me, I can't vouch for your safety." "Gee, thanks!" I muttered as we left the kitchen. It definitely seemed like more than twenty people to me as we surveyed his piano room and the living room beyond. Edward moved to his piano, bringing me with him. I sat down next to him on the bench as he readied himself to play. He turned to me and said quietly, "This first piece is something I wrote for my mother." He focused on the keys again and started to play. I was enthralled with the way his fingers flew gracefully over the keys. He was so talented and too modest to realize just how special his musical gift really was. "Oh, Edward's started to play!" Esme announced. "Let's all move over into the other room." I heard some soft whispers and then Esme spoke again. "The beautiful young woman at his side is Bella. She's a very important addition to our family. She's a very bright young woman and shares in Edward's love of music. Perhaps we can convince her to play for us when he's done." My hand shot out and grabbed Edward's thigh. I heard him chuckling under his breath. "Breathe, Bella. You'll only make it worse if you faint now," he chuckled.

Sure enough! As soon as Edward stopped playing, Esme was handing me my guitar. I gave him a murderous glare when he started that damn laughing again. He looked like he was going to get up, so I grabbed his wrist tightly. I smiled for the guests and hissed to him. "Stay right there, Tutor-boy!" He lifted an eyebrow at me, but didn't move. I let go of his wrist. "Edward, what should I play?" "Whatever you like." I knew I would never make it through this looking at the ladies before me. I turned on the bench, holding my guitar in a more comfortable position. I lifted my head and locked my eyes on Edward. If I concentrated on him, I could block out the crowd around me. I strummed the first note as I took a slow breath. The confidence that always flowed through me after the first note was played took hold again. My fingers deftly ran over the strings and my voice came out nice and even. I don't like to be alone in the night And I don't like to hear I'm wrong when I'm right And I don't like to have the rain on my shoes But I do love you, but I do love you I don't like to see a sky painted gray And I don't like when nothing's going my way And I don't like to be the one with the blues But I do love you, but I do love you Love everything about the way you're loving me The way you lay your head Upon my shoulder when you sleep And I love to kiss you in the rain I love everything you do, oh I do And I don't like to turn the radio on Just to find I missed my favorite song And I don't like to be the one with the news But I do love you, but I do love you

Love everything about the way you're loving me The way you lay your head Upon my shoulder when you sleep And I love to kiss you in the rain I love everything you do, oh I do And I don't like to be alone in the night And I don't like to hear I'm wrong when I'm right And I don't like to have the rain on my shoes But I do love you but I do love you But I do love you but I do love you (LeAnn Rimes But I do Love You) I let the last chord echo a little before putting my hand over the strings to still the sound. Edward leaned over and kissed my cheek softly. The ladies started clapping and saying how wonderful Edward and I sounded. I pulled him close and whispered into his ear, "I do love you." "And I love you," he said, hugging me tightly. I wasn't asked to perform anything else, but Edward ended up playing for about another hour before Esme finally released us. We ran upstairs together before she could change her mind. "Lock that door because we are taking a nap. And God help whoever tries to wake us up!" I told him, pointing at his door. He chuckled as he flipped the lock. "Just know that Alice can pick it if she wants." "I figured." I climbed out of the skirt and shirt and into the big bed. "No pajamas?" he asked with a smirk. "Edward, I have changed clothing enough for one day. I'm too tired to worry with it. Why? Do you mind?" "Not at all," he chuckled, taking off his own clothes. He slid under the covers and wrapped me up in his arms. We were both deeply asleep within minutes.

Chapter 55 - Telling Bella Part 1 A loud pounding woke me. I rolled over and glared at the door. It couldn't possibly have been that long ago that I had closed my eyes. I looked toward the clock and saw it was three in the afternoon. "Edward Anthony!" Alice yelled from the other side of the door. "Do not make me pick this lock!" I groaned as I pulled my arms from around Bella. She rolled over, pressing her face into my pillow. At least one of us was still deeply asleep. I trudged over to the door, flipped the lock, and opened it. I leaned heavily on the door frame, not quite awake yet. "Hello, Alice." "What are you doing in bed still?" she roared. I waved my hand at her. "Can you keep it down? Bella is still asleep." "It's late afternoon, Edward. I think you've both slept enough." "We didn't get much sleep last night, Ali. Please give us a break." "Why? What happened? Is Bella alright?" Alice pushed past me and stormed into the room. She stared at Bella for a long moment before turning her attention back to me. "What happened?" "She's too observant," I shrugged. "She guessed Jasper was looking for a place so Emmett could move in. I didn't confirm her suspicions to her, but she didn't seem to need it. She ended up waking up with a few nightmares and then deciding to stay up." "You're flicking your eyes around. What are you editing?" I sighed. Sometimes, I really hated that Alice and I were so close. She could practically see everything about me. "She got out of bed and stayed in front of the window a little too long. I ended up having to run her a hot bath to get her body temperature back up to normal." "Is she sick? She could get pneumonia like that!"

"She's just fine. She ate a huge breakfast this morning when mom called us down to meet the Garden Club." "But I locked your door!" "And I unlocked it getting Bella some tea and warm pajamas in the middle of the night. I didn't remember to lock it again." "You poor thing! Bella up with nightmares and then mom descending upon you ..." "Bella got her share," I said with a small smile. "Mom introduced her to the club and made her perform for them." "No wonder you two were up here napping the day away," Alice chuckled. "Should we plan another all-nighter? If Bella had that bad of a reaction to a suspicion, what's she going to do to the real thing?" "I think she might have handled it better knowing the exact circumstances. She hates not having things decided. It's like having a plan of attack gives her strength." Alice watched Bella sleep while she thought over what I had said. "She's a really deep sleeper." "Only when she's really tired or after her sleep-talking stops." "It's cute how you know all about her like that," Alice grinned. "Trust me, Ali! I hardly know anything about her." I ran my hands through my hair, staring at my sleeping Bella. "She's constantly surprising me and amazing me. I have a feeling no matter how many years we're together, I'll never completely understand how her mind works." "So what do we do about tonight, little brother?" "You need to go downstairs and talk to Emmett. He needs to tell her immediately and give her the rest of the night to deal with it and accept it while he's here. She told me when he first went to college he used to visit her every Friday night. Maybe he can pick a night for all six of us to always meet up then we can tell her that, too. I'm going to wake her up now and get us ready for your movie marathon." "I'll take her shopping tomorrow after school. I bet that will cheer her up!"

"I doubt it," I laughed. "Bella's still not much of a shopper!" "She will be! Don't you worry!" Alice said, patting my cheek. "I'll go talk to Emmett. I'm being very generous here, Edward. Don't take advantage. You have half an hour to be downstairs." "Thank you, Ali," I replied, hugging my sister. "Yeah, yeah! Remember what I said!" Alice warned, as she left my room. I closed the door and locked it again, just in case. I sat next to Bella. I moved her hair back and kissed her forehead. A smile spread across her beautiful lips. "Bella." She stretched and yawned, reminding me of a cat. I chuckled at her. "Are you awake?" Bella rolled onto her stomach, hiding her face in my pillow. "No," she mumbled. "You shouldn't be either." "We have a movie marathon to go watch. Everyone else is already downstairs." "Movies, schmovies!" I laughed and gently pulled her into my arms. She sighed and opened her eyes, looking up at me. "You are determined to make me get out of this bed, aren't you, Tutor-boy?" "Alice's orders," I chuckled. "You know we must obey." "Yeah, but I sure don't have to be happy about it." "I think I'm insane," I blurted out. "What?" Bella laughed. "I love you so much that I even love the just-waking-up-grump that you are." "You are insane!" Bella chuckled.

We were quiet for a few minutes, just looking at each other and holding each other. "So everyone's here, huh?" I nodded my head. "I've never worn so many outfits in one day. But this time! I'm putting on my sweats and one of your t-shirts and I don't care what dirty looks Alice gives me." "I think she'll understand, love." "You told her!" Bella yelled, sitting up and staring at me. "I didn't know I wasn't supposed to." "Well, no it's not I just don't want it getting back to Emmett," Bella sighed.

"Alice has been my confidant for a long time, Bella. I assure you, she won't tell Emmett. She didn't tell him the last time." "She knows about that, too?" Bella asked as she crawled into my lap. "Yes, love. She's the one who convinced me to talk to you about it." "She never let on that she knew." "Like I said, she's an expert confidant." I kissed the top of Bella's head and hugged her tightly. "Let's get dressed. I bet Alice has pizza downstairs." "That does sound good. Okay, you win. I'll get out of bed now." I laughed as I set her on the floor. "Thank you for being so cooperative." "Don't get used to it," Bella chuckled, as she walked to our closet. True to her word, she threw on a pair of light blue sweatpants and paired it with one of my white t-shirts. I threw on a pair of loose jeans and my grey t-shirt. Bella put her hair up in a ponytail and we headed downstairs together. "There's the Squirt!" Emmett called as we entered the living room. "No more late night dancing for you! You sleep the day away afterwards!"

"Ha, ha, Emmett!" Bella replied with her hands on her hips. "I hear you got introduced to the Garden Club! How'd you enjoy that?" Emmett asked. "I didn't," Bella said, giving Emmett a hug. "Esme made me perform for them." "That's why I'm glad I don't have any special talents," Emmett said with a huge smile. "Rose and I just had to stand there looking pretty." "Don't worry!" Jasper chuckled. "You're special on the inside, Emmett." Bella let go of her brother and stared up at him with wide eyes. "You got introduced, too?" "Yep!" Emmett chuckled. "Esme introduces all of her children," Rose said, mimicking quotation marks. "Jasper, Emmett and I have all been introduced. And today, you got added to the bunch." "How exactly did she introduce you?" Alice asked, putting her arm around Bella's shoulders. Bella smirked at them. "As an important addition to the family. She had me show off my ring and called it an engagement ring." "Jeez, Bella!" Emmett groaned. "Are you trying to give me a heart-attack here?" "Esme did it, not me!" Bella laughed. "Oh, Alice. I wanted to say congratulations to Jasper and you. Edward told me about the condo." "Thank you, Bella. Will you come shopping with me tomorrow afternoon? I have a few things I'm thinking about getting and I'd love your opinion on them," Alice said. "No clothes, right?" Bella asked with a wary look. "No clothes," Alice chuckled. "Just household items. I swear!" "I'd love to, Alice!" Bella replied. "And Rose should come, too." "Why's that?" Rose asked, moving closer to Bella and Alice.

"Well, with Jasper moving out, I'm sure you'll want to fix up your place and make room for Emmett. I doubt much of his furniture will be salvageable enough to take from his room at our house." "But I thought " Rose stuttered. "Nobody told me," Bella replied, waving her hand. "But I'm right, aren't I?" Emmett walked over and pulled Bella into another hug. "Bella, you know I love you so much, kid." "I know, Em. But I'm not a kid anymore and neither are you." "You know Rosie's door is always open to you, right?" Emmett asked, holding Bella's face in his big hands. "You know you can call me anytime of the day if you need anything?" Bella nodded her head slowly. "We'll need to talk about what you want to do with the house." "How soon are you moving out?" Bella asked. I walked up behind her and wrapped my arms around her. I wanted her to know I was right here for her. "I was figuring next weekend. Jasper's already renting a truck and it just seemed smart to get everything done with at once and not have to rent another one later on," Emmett explained. "Why the long faces, children?" my mother asked, as she came through the front door. "We're just letting Bella know about the new living arrangements," Jasper replied. "I don't see why that calls for long faces. Jasper and Alice will have the condo, Rose and Emmett will have Rose's house and Bella will be here with us. I really don't understand why you children get yourselves so worked up the few times you decide to be adults," my mother chided. "What?" Bella and I asked loudly.

My mother chuckled. "I forgot you two were napping while Alice and I chatted earlier. And before I forget, Bella, my club adored you and your lovely voice. I hope you will join Edward again next month." "Um okay, yeah," Bella said, shaking her head. "But can we go back to that first part again?" My mother laughed as she walked over to Bella. "Carlisle and I had a little chat and we don't want you staying home alone. And honestly, we're not quite ready to part with Edward yet. So! You will move in here with us. That is, if you want to." "I'm are you sure?" Bella asked, scrunching up her nose.

"Positive, dear!" my mother chuckled. Bella pulled away from me and hugged my mother tightly. "Thank you so much, Esme. You and Carlisle are just too great to me." My mother smiled as she stroked Bella's hair. "You deserve every bit of kindness, Bella. You appreciate every little thing that's done for you where others would merely expect it. I'm quite sure if the situation were reversed, you would do the same for someone else." My mother released Bella and looked at all of us. "Children, your father is taking me out for dinner. Enjoy your movie marathon. Emmett, I expect the house to still be in one piece when I return." "Yes, Esme," Emmett chuckled. "Have a good night then," my mother called as she made her way up the stairs. "Well, look at that, Squirt," Emmett said, ruffling her hair. "Now you don't even need an excuse to crawl up in Eddie's bed." Alice and Rose snickered. Jasper smiled. Bella and I exchanged smirks. "Edward mentioned there might be pizza," Bella said hopefully. "Yes!" Alice chirped. "And a special one just for you, Bella!" We all sat on the floor, crowding around the living room table, trading pizza boxes until everyone had a couple slices. Bella was happy to just stick with her sausage and pineapple monstrosity. I chuckled as Jasper and Emmett grimaced while watching Bella eat a slice. Alice brought out sodas for everyone.

"It's actually not that bad," I told them when they kept staring at Bella. They looked at me and I shrugged. "Bella asked me to try it once." "Do you do everything she asks of you?" Emmett asked with a smug smile. "Do you even have to ask?" Jasper joked. "Stop acting like you two don't do what Alice and I ask of you," Rose chided. "What are we going to do with the house, Emmett?" Bella asked. Emmett pretended to be thinking about it while drinking nearly all of his soda down in one gulp. He slowly put the can down, still staring at Bella. "Well " "You shouldn't have to pay the bills for it if you're not living there," Bella interrupted. "And I kind of like not working right now so I don't really have the money for the bills. I don't think you need the headache of renters. So maybe we should find out about selling it." "I don't know, Squirt. What would we do with all the stuff in it?" Emmett asked. "Well, all the furniture and stuff should just be tossed," Bella said. "It's all falling apart and too old to worry about fixing. We've always talked about cleaning out mom and dad's room and donating the stuff. We could actually do that, especially with you having a truck. The pictures and albums can be split between us and then we just have our own personal items." "Bella, did you sleep at all last night?" Emmett asked. His anger was clear in his tone. Bella didn't speak or move. "Bella." Emmett uncrossed his legs and got up from the floor, never taking his eyes from his sister. "Outside. Now." "No," Bella whispered, lowering her head to stare at the floor. "I didn't ask if you wanted to, Isabella. Come outside with me," Emmett said, crossing his arms in front of his chest. "I don't want to talk right now, Emmett," Bella said, still keeping her face hidden.

"I didn't ask what you wanted. We are talking about this. Don't make me talk about it in front of everyone," Emmett warned. I got up from the floor at that point. I was not about to let this get out of hand. They both had bad tempers and would say things they didn't mean. "Emmett, if she doesn't want to talk " "Edward, I'll be waiting You have five minutes to convince her to come outside. After that, I'm coming in and if she gets embarrassed, or whatever her reason for not talking to me is, then it happens," Emmett said. He walked out of the house, slamming the door closed behind him. "Bella, come in the kitchen with me." I held my hand out to her. She took it and got up, never lifting her head up. I led her into the kitchen, making sure the swinging door shut behind us. I took her into my arms and hugged her tightly. "Bella, why don't you want to talk to Emmett?" "He wants to talk about my dreams, Edward." "And?" "And I don't want to talk to him about them." "Why not, Bella? You told me he already knows and that you used to go and sleep in his room when you had them. Why are you so reluctant now?" "Because " "Bella, have I mentioned that I can't stand it when you stop talking?" "No," she chuckled, pressing her face further against my shirt. "Why are you refusing to talk to your brother then?" "I'm scared," she mumbled. "Of what, love?" "What if he convinces himself he has to stay with me? I could never forgive myself if his relationship with Rose gets messed up over my dreams."

"You worry too much." "Look at how he's reacted so far to the little things, like the club clothes! And then the other night!" "He's just feeling a little overprotective of you, Bella. He loves you." "I know that, Edward. And that's what I'm afraid of. He's not rational when he's acting that way." "Is there anything I can say or do to convince you to talk to him?" "Come with me," she pleaded, as much with her eyes as her voice. I pulled her away slightly so she was looking at my face. "Don't you think it should be just the two of you?" "No. You had to put up with my dreams for nearly six weeks straight. This concerns you, too. Besides, if I have to talk about my dreams when I don't want to, then I should at least get to talk about them the way I want." "Bella " I sighed. "I'm not asking you to talk for me, Edward. I'm just asking you to be there for me." It was a simple request but what was the right choice? Send her out there alone and hope for the best or stand aside and support her silently? What kind of reaction would Emmett have to my presence? I shook my head, realizing I was about to make the same mistake I had yesterday. Bella's words came into my mind, showing me exactly what my choice would be There were only two people in our relationship and Emmett wasn't one of them. "For the record, love, I really believe you're working yourself up over nothing. But I will go with you." "Thank you, Edward," she sighed, hugging me tightly. She pulled away and smiled at me. She took my hand and we walked to the front door together. I opened it up, but stopped her from stepping outside. I leaned down and whispered into her ear. "Keep your temper, Isabella."

She nodded her head. We stepped out onto the porch together as I closed the door behind us. I was slightly apprehensive as I walked out the door, still unsure if my choice had been the right one But as I'd found on many occasions, I couldn't deny Bella anything ... ever.

Chapter 56 - Telling Bella Part 2 "Keep your temper, Isabella," Edward whispered before we walked out of the door. I nodded my head, hoping I really would. I looked up and found Emmett sitting on the porch swing. Edward squeezed my hand and kissed my cheek before letting me go. He went and stood on the opposite end of the porch, and leaned against the railing. I bit my lip as I slowly walked toward Emmett. He scooted over, leaving me room to sit. I sat down and stared out over the driveway. I wasn't ready to look at him yet. "I want to talk to you alone, Bella," Emmett said. "You and I are the only ones that will be talking, Emmett," I told him. "Then send Edward inside," he ordered. "No. I want him to be here. He knows all about my dreams and what I'm going through." "Bella." "Emmett, I love you. I appreciate what you are trying to do, however misguided it may be." "Isabella " Emmett started. "Emmett," Edward interrupted. "I'm not moving from this spot. But I also won't interrupt you unless it is absolutely necessary." "Why would it be necessary?" Emmett growled. "Because you don't think very clearly when you're in your overprotective mode," I told my brother. "Bruised rib the other night ring any bells for you?"

"Fine," Emmett relented. "Edward can stay as long as you are completely honest with me, Bella. That being said, I'm guessing from your appearance and your refusal to answer me earlier, you didn't get any sleep last night," he said, forcing his voice to be calm with me. "I got some," I replied, shooting a quick glance at Edward. He was looking off into the trees, but I knew he was paying attention to the conversation. I didn't want to lie to my brother, but I also didn't want to make him worry about me. This was my problem. It was my fault for thinking I still had months left with my brother. It made sense for him to move in with Rosalie. I wasn't even sure why I had thought it wouldn't be until after the wedding. I wasn't going to mess up his relationship with Rose. I owed him too much. "How much is some?" he barked. "I don't know, Emmett!" I snapped. "I wasn't watching the clock," I said, rolling my eyes. I immediately shut up, biting my tongue. I looked at Edward again. He was shaking his head the slightest bit, warning me about my temper. "Edward must have been up with you. He doesn't look much better than you," Emmett said, pointing his thumb at Edward. "For some of it, yeah," I answered. "What do you mean for some of it?" "I didn't wake him up at first," I shrugged. "He sort of lectured me about it." "Good," he sighed. "Saves me the trouble. You are too stubborn for your own good, Isabella. You have all these people loving you and wanting to be your friend and you never ask for help. In fact, you pretty much try to run away from it." "I just don't feel right about it. It feels like I'm being selfish." "It's not selfish if you accept when they offer, and only ask when you need it." "But they're always offering." "Because you never ask!" he roared.

I saw Edward make a slight movement and I quickly shook my head at him. Emmett was fine, just angry. My brother clinched his fists and took a deep breath. "Sorry. I'm trying not to yell. I'm not angry with you, Bella. I'm angry with myself. I should have talked to you last night before I left. Maybe it wouldn't have been such a rough night if you'd had some answers. I know how you like to have everything mapped out. I know how your nightmares come back when things change." "Yeah, well, I'm starting to learn it isn't possible to make definite plans when you have more than one person actually involved in your life; especially if one of those people is Alice." He laughed and hugged me tightly. "You're learning quick, Squirt. Can I ask you what in particular you're freaking out about?" I shrugged. "I didn't think it would be so soon. It's just been really nice with Rose and Edward and you and me all being at the house together." "You were in a cast, Bella. Edward and Rose's houses have a lot of stairs. We knew you'd be more comfortable at home. But you had to know they would both need to go back to their own homes." "I knew that I just didn't think you'd be leaving with Rose."

"Bella, if this is too much if you need me to stay home with you for awhile to keep your nightmares away, I'll do it." "No, Emmett! You've put your life on hold enough for me," I told him, taking his big paw into my little hands. "You gave up a lot to come home and take care of me. I don't want to keep you from Rose. You love her and you should get to be with her." "I love you, too, Bella." "I know. I'll be okay, though. And you aren't going far. I know how to get to Rose's." "That's right. And we'll both be over here just as much as we always have been. Sunday dinner and all," he chuckled. "Are you going to miss me, Emmett?" I asked, hiding my face in his shirt. I knew it was a silly question, but I really needed to hear him answer it.

Emmett pulled me away and held me by my shoulders. "Have you lost your mind? What the hell kind of question is that? Am I going to miss you? Jeez, Bella!" My brother shook his head at me. "You never have seen yourself clearly. You always blush and turn away and ignore it when other people try to tell you what they see. Do you know why I never brought any girls to the house in the last five years?" "You were being considerate," I replied immediately, confident of my answer. "No, Isabella. I hadn't met anyone worthy of meeting you! Rose is the first and only girl I felt was good enough to meet you." I started crying hard and Emmett pulled me to his chest. How could he really feel that way? I was just his kid sister. "Come on, Squirt. You know I don't do well with the water works." "But how can you mean that?" "Bella," he chuckled. "Edward's right. You are absurd! You are the smartest, kindest, bravest, most loyal person I have ever met in my twenty-five years on this planet. You're honest, you work hard, and you earn everything that comes your way. You never wait around for hand-outs or praise. You also happen to be the coolest little sister a guy could ever hope to have." I snorted, wiping at my eyes. I looked up to see Edward grinning at me. Emmett noticed and said, "To be perfectly honest, I feel like I'm the one that should be worried. I don't think you're going to need your big brother anymore now that you have Edward." I hugged my brother tightly. "I'll always need you, Em." "I'll always be here, Bella. I'll just be hanging out at Rosie's house." "I'm sure that will be a great learning experience for her," I chuckled. "What are you talking about?" "Well, with you there, she can get some first hand experience with child-rearing!" I joked.

"Think you're funny do you?" Emmett questioned as he grabbed my sides and started tickling me. I screamed and laughed at the same time, trying to wiggle out of his grasp. "Funny, little Bella!" "Stop, Em!" I screamed. "I give! Uncle! Uncle!" He stopped tickling me and without my noise, we could hear other people laughing. We turned and saw the others crowded in the doorway watching us. "What?" Emmett asked. "It sounded like you were killing her," Rose said with a big grin. "Aw!" Emmett said, hugging me around the neck and ruffling my hair. "I could never kill the Squirt. I wouldn't know what to do without her." "Right back at you, brother bear," I chuckled, trying to slip out from under his arm. "Can we please watch some movies now?" Alice cried. "Action first!" Emmett yelled, as he jumped up. I tried to get up, but he knocked me back down onto the swing. "Bears before Squirts!" he laughed as he jogged to the front door. I watched as they scrambled out of his way. The front door closed and Edward came and sat next to me. He opened his arms and I crawled into his lap, not only allowing him to comfort me, but allowing myself to enjoy it for once, as well. Emmett was right this wasn't selfish. This was being loved. "Are you okay?" he whispered. I nodded my head. "I don't exactly understand the way he sees me, but I'm relieved he really listened to what I said. I'm glad he's going to move in with Rose. It's right for him. And no one deserves it more."

The front door opened and Rose stepped out. She smiled at Edward as she walked over to us. She leaned up against the railing and seemed to be searching for what she wanted to say. "What brings you out here, Rose?" I asked, smiling at her, trying to ease her apprehension. "I was hoping to talk with you," she replied, smiling sweetly. "Speak," I told her. She glanced at Edward and I waved my hand at her. "Don't worry about him," I said, winking. "Pretend Tutor-boy is a marble statue of a Greek god. He can't hear or speak!" They both chuckled. Then Rose nodded her head, coming to some internal agreement. "Why did Emmett have you come outside?" she asked. "He was actually being nice, if you can believe it. I have nightmares. He was trying to spare me from talking about them in front of everyone." "All the time?" "No. Just when there's a lot of stress or changes going on. They started the night my parents died." "Have you been having nightmares this whole time? Since you met us?" "No, Rose. It hasn't been that bad. I had a bad spell after Christmas. Edward and I talked about them and they cleared up again. But then last night " "So that's why Emmett asked if you'd gotten any sleep?" "Yeah." "Bella, is there anything I can do to help keep you from having nightmares?" "No. I just have to get over my fear. But I want you to know it means an awful lot that you would ask." "You're going to be my little sister-in-law, Bella." "That's got a certain ring to it," I chuckled.

"Bella, if there is ever anything I can do, please come to me. Don't hesitate for a second," Rose said. "Thanks, Rose." She kissed my forehead and went back into the house. I turned my face back into Edward's shirt and took a deep breath. Life had changed so much in such a short time. Emmett was engaged and moving out. Alice was going to be living with Jasper. By some miracle, I was going to be with Edward. Life was constantly changing ... I was going to have to accept that and stop being afraid of it. "What are you thinking about, love?" Edward whispered. "I'm thinking I need to accept that Emmett moving in with Rose does not mean I'm loosing him in any way. I'm thinking I love you very much. And I'm thinking as much as I would love to just stay right here in your arms, we had better go inside before Alice comes out to get us." "I think you're right," he chuckled as we both got to our feet. He wrapped an arm around my waist and we walked into the house together. We claimed the empty loveseat for ourselves. Edward held me against his chest with an arm wrapped around my waist. "In honor of the Squirt, our first movie of the night is The Transporter," Emmett announced. "Thanks, Em!" I said, smiling at him. Alice put in the DVD and started up the surround sound. "Oh, my, my," Rose said, fanning herself when she saw the main character sitting in the car. "I can see why Bella likes this movie," Alice chuckled. I turned bright red and Edward noticed right away. "I thought you said you only had a crush on me," he whispered in my ear. His tone was playful.

"I meant it. But that doesn't mean he's not nice to look at," I whispered back. I looked over at Alice, raising my voice. "You haven't seen anything yet! Wait until he starts fighting people without a shirt." I winked at Alice. I'm not sure what expression Edward had on his face, but it must have been priceless because Alice immediately started playing along. "I can picture him shirtless right now and it does appear pretty yummy!" Alice said with a wicked grin. "Is that another one of those things you would like chocolate-covered, Alice?" I asked. "Possibly, Bella," Alice smirked. "Forget the chocolate," Rose said. "Give me a few ropes, maybe a pair of handcuffs and we'll see what we can make of it." "I doubt you'll need to worry about him leaving, Rose," I chuckled. "I'm sure he'll want to stay after seeing you." "Oh, I'm not worried about him leaving. I just like to toy with my prey before enjoying them," Rose replied. "We are sitting right here!" Jasper yelled, waving his hand between Emmett and Edward. "I can't believe you'd say you wanted to do that to someone else, Rosie," Emmett huffed. "Oh, my God!" I screamed. My hands flew to my ears. "TMI! TMI! TMI!" "Bella, it's okay," Edward said, trying to pull my hands from my ears. "He stopped speaking. I promise." "I don't care. I already heard too much!" I cried. "Sorry, Squirt. Forgot to keep it PG. I forget we have Edward's and your virgin ears around us," Emmett said. Rose and Alice fell onto each other, laughing like loons. I just stared at them, wondering if they wanted me dead. I really didn't think this was the time for Emmett to be finding out any new information about me.

"Getting back to the movie!" Jasper said loudly. Alice and Rose hushed each other while winking at me. I rolled my eyes at them. I turned onto my back so I could see Edward's face. "Expert confidant?" I questioned. Edward shrugged. "I really don't know what's gotten into her. Maybe she's just sure Emmett won't figure it out." "Yes, let's just hang everything on what Alice thinks may or may not happen in the future." "You have to admit, she is right a lot of the time." "Too often!" "Sometimes it's good she's right, though. Like for you and me." "Yes, that's very good," I agreed, smiling at him. He leaned down and kissed me sweetly. "I love you, Edward." "I love you, Bella. Even if you have a crush on the movie guy." I punched him in his shoulder. "Watch it, Tutor-boy!" Edward chuckled as he wrapped me up in a warm embrace. I pressed my face against his neck and breathed him in. It was as soothing and as calming as it always was. I drifted off to sleep before I even realized I was still tired.

Chapter 57 - Choices Bella fell asleep against me before the first movie even got started. I let her sleep. I wanted her to be awake later. I had a surprise for her something I'd been wanting to show her for awhile now, but had never found the right time.

She was in a deep sleep, too. Emmett and Jasper weren't even attempting to be quiet. Rose and Alice couldn't help but laugh at the two of them arguing over the plot and the special effects of the movies. I watched them interacting with each other, wondering how often this would happen now that they were going to be living as couples. Alice was going to be in the middle of the city and that kind of excitement would probably keep her pretty busy for a while. It would be strange not to have her around, telling me what to do and what to wear. She was a royal pain, but I couldn't have loved her more. But she had made the choice to move in with Jasper. I knew she would be fine; Jasper loved her and was willing to do anything for her. They would have a good life together. It would certainly never be dull with their personalities. Jasper had gotten tired of leaving without Alice at his side. He had no idea what he was in for, choosing to leave her in charge of decorating their home. But I knew that no matter what she did, he would say he loved it. That was just the way he was with Alice. Rosalie was in for a lot of changes with her choice to have Emmett move in, as well. Neither of them cooked so either they'd have to learn, or eat a lot of takeout. All those video game competitions that flustered my mother would now probably be held at Rose's. I tried to picture her dealing with the noise we usually ended up making. She'd probably just threaten all of our vehicles to get us to behave. Emmett had made the choice to have his own life separate from Bella's. He was telling her he felt she was ready to be an adult now. I doubted Bella felt truly ready. He was so excited at the idea of being with Rose all the time I wondered if he'd given any thought to how much he would miss Bella. I knew she'd considered it a lot. I hoped he would make time for her, at least for a few months, just to help her get used to him not being around. And that left Bella. I looked down at her. Her face was so peaceful as she clung to my shirt, pressing her cheek against my chest. She had made the choice to live here with my parents and me. I would never be able to explain to her how much her choice meant to me how much she meant to me. Part of me wanted to run upstairs and start making room for her right away. I saw my mother heading to the kitchen out of the corner of my eye. I pried Bella's fingers from my shirt and slid away from her. I quickly made it across the living room

and into the kitchen. My mother was looking through her junk drawers when I walked in. "Mom?" She spun around, surprised at my voice as much as she was by my greeting. "Edward. Is everything okay?" "I was wondering if I could talk to you." "You can always talk to me, Edward. Why don't we step out onto the back porch?" I nodded my head and walked towards the door. I opened it up, letting her go out first. I closed it behind us and took a seat next to her on the porch steps. She put her hand on my knee and patted it. "Big day around here, isn't it?" "I told Alice I didn't think the day would ever come when she would give up her credit card and move out," I chuckled. "I hope you told her just how much you'll really miss her, Edward." "She knows." "Regardless, you should tell her. I'm sure she'd appreciate hearing it. She loves you an awful lot, Edward. Some days, I think she cares more about your happiness than her own." "That's completely your fault, you know," I said, bumping her shoulder with mine. "You were the one who told her it was her job to watch out for me." "She was ten years old and it was your first day of school. I never dreamed she would make it one of her mission's in life." "Alice never does anything half-way, mom. You of all people should know that." "She does get that from my side of the family," my mother chuckled. "What did you want to talk to me about?" "Bella." "She's very special, Edward."

"She is," I agreed, smiling goofily. "But I'm surprised you would offer for her to live here. You never made that offer to Jasper." "Rose and Jasper needed each other much more than your sister needed to spend all of her free time with her boyfriend. When siblings are in the position of only having each other, it greatly affects their relationship. It's a very complex bond, Edward. They aren't just sister and brother. They've had to be mother and father to each other as well. The same with Emmett and Bella. If Emmett wasn't moving in with Rose, I wouldn't have offered. But he has decided to do it and Bella needs to be surrounded by people who love her to help with the transition. To her, in a lot of ways, she's loosing her brother, her friend, her father, and her caregiver." I nodded my head. Bella had mentioned on a few occasions that she felt like she was loosing Emmett. "I know you, Edward. You're going to want to talk to her and find out every little thing that she's feeling and thinking. But I hope you will listen to me. Don't do that. Whatever she reveals to you, be thankful for it. It may be awhile before she even realizes everything she's thinking and feeling about the situation. Her natural instinct will be to make sure Emmett goes through with his choice, no matter how that affects her." "But shouldn't they talk more about it and find out if they're both ready?" "They will never really be ready for it. As I said, it's a complex bond. For the rest of their lives, no matter how old Bella gets, Emmett will always feel the need to be protective of her, and Bella will always look to him as a father figure. His opinion will only ever be second to yours." I nodded my head, letting her words sink into my brain. "Would you tell me what happened last night?" "Bella has a particular nightmare that started after her parents died. She imagines that she's there, watching her parents as the crash happens. It's very vivid and it scares her as much now as it did when she had the very first one. Stress and change trigger the dream for her. She had a few bad dreams last night because she had figured out Emmett was going to move." "And you both were up all night?"

"She was up at first and then I woke up and found her just sitting on the floor, looking out the window." "It was awfully cold last night, Edward." "I know," I said with a rueful smile. "I had to run a bath for her to get her body temperature back up. Guess we shouldn't leave the heat so low when we have guests over." "You know you're father likes to keep the house cold. Anything higher than sixty and he swears he's melting." We laughed together, both remembering all the times my father had fussed about the temperature in the house. It was why we didn't have a fireplace. There was no point since he never would have let anyone light it. "So then I got her to go back to sleep and I waited up, making sure she didn't have any more nightmares." "And I came in and woke you, bright and early." "You are rather cruel, mother," I said, winking at her. She put an arm around my shoulders and kissed my head. "Only because I love you and because I'm very proud of you, Edward. And you know my Garden Club adores you." "Bella was horrified when she realized she was going to have to play," I chuckled. "She never showed it. She did an excellent job." "That's what bothers me about her. She's so good at hiding how she really feels." "All you can do is comfort her and let her know that you are there for her. You have to let her come to you, Edward. You can't force her." "I hope I'm not reading too far into it, but I think her wanting me outside when she talked to Emmett was a big step. It made me feel like she finally believes I'm going to be here for her."

"I would say that's a very good possibility, but don't be discouraged if Bella seems to regress a little in the next week. She may push you away to help herself deal with Emmett's leaving." I knew my mother was right, but I didn't know if I could just stand aside and watch Bella hurt. Maybe I wouldn't have to find out. Maybe Bella would let me into her heart further instead of pushing me away. "And dad's really okay with this?" I asked my mother. "Not that he has much of a choice, but yes. He loves Bella. He knows how happy she makes you. Your father cares a great deal about your happiness." "Except where my career is concerned," I muttered. "He cares about that, too, Edward. He just has a different opinion." She hugged me again. "You leave your father to me. I will help him come around and understand." "How do you do that?" "Do what?" "You seem to already know my choice." She smiled and kissed my cheek. "I was young and in love once, too, son. And I made many choices, all of them leading me to and keeping me with your father. Speaking of him, he's probably looking for me. We have a date tonight." I stood and helped my mother up. She held onto my arm as we walked back into the house and through the kitchen. "There you are!" my father called. "I was beginning to think I'd been stood up." I handed her off to my father. "She's all yours." "Yes, she certainly is," he replied, kissing her cheek. "Shall we, my lady?" "I thought you'd never ask," she said, pretending to swoon. I laughed at my parents as the walked out of the kitchen. I could hear them saying their good-nights to the others. I went over to the refrigerator and grabbed a soda. I

leaned against the counter and opened it, thinking about my conversation with my mother. "Whatcha doin'?" Alice giggled, leaning over the kitchen island. I looked up and smiled at her. "Drinking a soda. What does it look like?" "It looked like you were having a heart to heart with our dear mother." "You spied?" I accused. "Nope! But I did look out the window on my way upstairs and saw the two of you on the porch." Alice wiggled her finger at me and sang, "She was hugging you!" I shook my head, grinning at my sister. "So what?" "So nothing," she said, sauntering around the island and standing in front of me. "It's just about time, that's all." "What can I say, Ali? I'm a slow learner. Is Bella still asleep?" "Out like a light. And no talking!" Alice pouted. The effect was ruined by her smile. "So what were you talking about with mom?" "If I wanted you to know, I would have invited you outside." "Don't be that way, little brother. I'm moving out soon. Don't you want to fill our final days with lots of wonderful chatter without me torturing the information from you?" I took a step forward, standing tall and looking down at her on purpose. "And just what do you think you can do to torture me Shorty?" Alice gasped. Then she narrowed her eyes to slits, put her hands on her hips and took a step forward so that we were barely an inch apart. "Do you really want to find out, Edward Anthony?" I slumped back against the counter. "I was just kidding, Ali." I prayed the use of her nickname would calm her. It was never a good idea to anger my sister. She didn't move, speak or let up on her intense glare. I would need to give her information on my own free will to smooth this over.

"I was talking to mom about Bella. I was curious as to why she and dad invited her to stay when they hadn't invited Jasper." "That's easy! Jasper and Rose needed each other, you goof." "Am I always the last to know?" I asked. Alice relaxed and smiled at me. "It's just because you forget to pay attention to the world around you. I'll have to talk to Bella and make sure she keeps you from doing that too often." "I'll miss you, Ali," I blurted out. I had meant for it to be much more subtle and not quite so childish, but there it was. Her smile spread from ear to ear as she launched herself at me, wrapping her little arms around my sides. "I knew you loved me!" "Of course, I love you," I said, rolling my eyes. I bent down and kissed her spiky hair. "You are my one and only big sister." "Look! How cute!" Bella and Rose squealed from the kitchen doorway. Alice turned her face towards them. "My little brother loves me! He said so!" Rose and Bella started laughing at Alice. I gently pried the little pixie off of me and made my way over to the love of my life. I wrapped her up in my arms and hugged her tightly. "Sleep well?" I whispered. "Until I woke up alone," she said, putting her arms around me. "But that's okay. It was worth it to see you hugging Alice." "Are you feeling rested?" "Yes. Why?" "I was hoping you would take a walk with me." Bella pulled away and looked up at me, smiling happily. "Sure!" "Let's go up and change. We'll need warmer clothes."

"Okay!" She took my hand in hers and pulled me toward the stairs. I laughed at her exuberance as we made our way up to our room. I really hoped she would decide to stay and really make this our room. I went into our closet and grabbed my hoodie. I started putting it on, but stopped halfway through. "Bella, why does my sweater smell like you?" "Oh," she giggled. "I snagged it this morning to get your coffee." "More and more of my clothing smells like you, young lady." "You sound as if you mind." "I love your smell, don't get me wrong. It's like strawberries and freesia. But I'm a guy! I'm not supposed to smell so sweet." "Fine! I'll limit my scent to your t-shirts, you big baby. Besides, your shirts smell better when you've been wearing them anyway." "You're absurd, Bella," I chuckled. "You brought up this particular topic," she said, putting on a big gray sweatshirt. "Where did you get that thing?" I asked, pointing at the shirt. "It's Emmett's. He brought it home for me on his first day of college." "He looks like he bought it in his size instead of yours." "He did. He said it was to help ward off the rude little boys. He said one look at this shirt would get the boy to imagine the size of the person needed to fill it. He said it would make the boy be nice to me." "How'd that work out for you?" "You tell me," she laughed. "Are you still scared of Emmett?" "Are you?" I shot back. "I'm not scared of Emmett. I just don't want to change his world view of me anymore than it already has been."

"Sure," I said, drawing the word out and rolling my eyes at her. "Let's go take that walk, Edward," she told me, pushing me toward the door. We walked down the stairs and over to the coat closet. Alice had shut off all the lights and they were all huddled together watching some cheesy horror movie. I put my jacket on and grabbed a pair of gloves. The nighttime wind was colder than the actual temperature at this time of year. I made sure Bella grabbed gloves as well. I grabbed the old blanket off the closet floor and stuck it under my arm. We headed through the kitchen and out the back door. I led her through the trees and into the woods a little. We came across a steep hill and I helped her climb up it. At the top, I spread the blanket out. I sat down and pulled her into my lap, keeping her off the cold ground. The hill provided us a perfect view of the moon, illuminating the world below. I'd been to this spot many times, watching sunrises and sunsets color the sky, the mountains, and the trees. Tonight, it was especially perfect. There wasn't a cloud in the sky and the stars looked more like diamonds than ever. "This is beautiful," she whispered, leaning her head against my shoulder. "It almost seems like you could reach out and touch the moon." "It's not nearly as beautiful as you, Isabella." "Oh, no!" she giggled. "What are you nervous about now?" "I just want to know if you're sure about moving in with me. I'm sure Emmett and Rose wouldn't mind if you wanted to live with them." "First of all, I would never impose on Emmett and Rose. They're going to be married and I'm not their child. Secondly, once I make a decision, it's made. It's hard enough to get to that point in the first place so I'm not about to second guess it. And the biggest reason for staying right here is you. I want to be wherever you are, Edward. I love you." "I love you, too," I whispered, a huge grin sitting on my face. "And I'm here for you if you want to talk or if you just want to be held. Whatever you need, Bella. Just let me know." "Let's start out with some closet space and a few dresser drawers and work our way from there," she chuckled.

"Anything for you, Bella," I laughed, kissing her cheek. We sat quietly together, enjoying the clear night and the beautiful view until Bella started to shiver. We walked back to the house together, both of us smiling. We passed by our family, deep into another cheesy horror flick, and made our way up to our room. I stopped Bella outside of the door. She looked up at me, one eyebrow lifted and a grin at the corner of her mouth. "Welcome to our room," I said, smiling at her. She chuckled and walked past me, shaking her head. "You're something else, Tutorboy." "Any chance we can let that nickname drop now that you are going to be living with me?" "Not a chance in hell!" she laughed, climbing onto the bed. "You'll always be my Tutorboy, Edward." I got into bed and pulled her into my arms. "And you'll always be my Bella." I wondered if she knew just how much I meant what I'd just told her. I'd made the choice to always have her at my side, and I knew it was one I would never regret. Life was full of choices and choices brought about change. And while things seemed to be changing pretty quickly, I had no complaints. The choices and changes had completely enriched my life. Lying in my arms was the best change that had ever happened to me my love, my life, my Bella.

Chapter 58 - Moving Day The week flew by. Between school and Edward, I really didn't have time to dwell on the changes that were coming during the weekend. But now it was Saturday and Moving Day was upon us. Alice had been a complete terror all week as she decided what would stay and what would go to the condo. Actually, she pretty much decided everything was staying and forced me to go to the mall numerous times to help her pick out her wardrobe for the condo. She was taking full advantage of her final days with her trusty credit card!

I did not leave without outfits of my own. Alice warned me I would need them with Esme so close. She said I could be taken anywhere to be introduced at anytime. Then she had the nerve to say she wasn't trying to scare me to death! I was happy to note my dreams had not returned. I wasn't sure if I would get through the entire weekend nightmare free, but I was hoping. I knew Edward was hoping, too. I kept catching him studying me, as if he was trying to peek into my head to see if the dreams were lurking there. He had been extra sweet and careful with me all week. It was actually getting a little irritating. I wasn't some porcelain doll. So I had nightmares, big deal! Lots of people had it worse off than me. But before my tongue could lash out, I would remind myself he was only doing it because he loved me so much. However, if he continued this past the weekend, I would sit him down and set him straight. Emmett and Rose were tackling his room. Alice and Jasper were clearing out our parent's room. Emmett and I couldn't bring ourselves to do it. Edward was helping me with my room. "I'm not sure how much packing you expect to get done if you just keep staring at the room," Edward said with a mischievous grin. "I don't know where to start," I shrugged. "Why don't we start with something you absolutely want to bring to our home?" "I don't want to bring much. I don't want to take over your room." Edward wrapped his arms around me and pulled me against his chest. He nibbled at my ear and I sighed happily. "Bella, it's our room and there's plenty of space." "Do you think this is all moving too fast?" "Considering I wanted to keep you with me forever the second week I knew you, no, not really." "Edward, you're such a tease!" I pulled myself away from him and headed toward my book collection. I knelt down in front of the bookcase and ran a hand across the spines of my books. Edward put a box next to me.

"Why don't you work on your books and I'll handle your CDs?" "I don't want all of the CDs. Why don't we switch? I do want all of my books. You handle those and I'll go through my CDs for the ones I really want." "Why do you have CDs you don't want?" I laughed, leaning against the short dresser and flipping through the CDs stacked there. "My parents bought them as gifts, not having any clue what they were doing. There's a Pat Boone one in the stack that I'm sure you'd love to have." "Burn it, Bella! Don't let it anywhere near me!" "Ha! I found a fear of Edward Cullen's! Better watch yourself, Tutor-boy! Mr. Boone might be hiding out in your closet and jump out and torture you with song one day!" "Very funny, Isabella." "How about Sinatra? Are you afraid of him, too?" I asked, holding up the CD case. "No. He actually has a few songs I like." "Really?" "You never listened to the CD?" "I never unwrapped the CD, Edward." Edward sighed heavily and got up, giving me a dirty look while smirking at me. It was an interesting combination. He took the case from me and unwrapped it. He popped open the case, took out the CD and put it into the player. He skipped tracks until he found the song he wanted. "This is called "Let's Fall in Love". And I would be very honored if you would allow me this dance." "Edward," I giggled as he took my hand in his and wrapped an arm around my waist. He held our twined hands against his shoulder as we moved around the small room, never taking his eyes from mine. I realized this was exactly how I had described my parents dancing that final time. I rested my head against his chest, filled with amazement that he always seemed to know the right thing to say or do.

"You're right. This isn't bad at all," I whispered. I could have spoken louder, but the moment felt magical and I didn't want to chance breaking the spell. But all songs come to an end and this one did, too. Edward hugged me tightly. "You are getting better and better every time we dance." "You looked just like mom, Bella," Emmett said. I looked up to see him standing in the doorway with Rose. "I think you need your eyes checked." "No, I think you need yours checked," Emmett replied solemnly. "You looked like mom, but prettier." I blushed and hid myself against Edward. "Can I get a moment alone with Bella?" Emmett asked. "Why don't Emmett and you take a walk while we keep packing?" Edward offered. "Good idea!" I replied, kissing his cheek. Emmett had already headed down the stairs. I followed after him. Together we went through the kitchen and out the back door. "So what's up, brother bear?" "I wanted to ask you that, Squirt. I know Edward gave you the ring and the promise and all, but I guess I didn't think it was as serious as what I have with Rosie. I just figured you two were being all goofy with it being your first boyfriend ever and his first girlfriend in a long while. I guess I never thought past the two of you going out on a few dates together. I like Edward and I know he makes you happy, but I'm concerned. You've never dated anyone else and I'd hate for you to get too serious with Edward and then discover it was just hormones or a crush and not the lasting thing. I don't want either of you to be hurt." "Emmett, you are so sweet. You will be a great dad when you and Rose decide to have kids. I appreciate your concern, I really do. And I can even understand where it's coming from. But Emmett, you need to listen to me and believe me when I say to you that I love Edward. I love him with my entire heart and soul. I love him and only him and will only ever be with him. Not because he's the first boy I took interest in or because he was the first to really care to get to know the real me. But because that is

how I truly feel about him. When I'm not with him, it feels like my other half is missing. When I think about the days ahead, I think about what I'll be doing with him or for him. I don't see any day in my future that doesn't include Edward in some way. And between you and me, I don't ever want to. I know this has been rough on you, what with figuring out I'm twenty and not twelve, and that somewhere along the way I developed a hot body " I waited for my sentence to catch up with my brother. I bit my lip with anticipation and he rewarded me with his wonderful booming laugh echoing across the back yard. "Hot body, huh, Bella?" Emmett asked with a wink. "You're the one who bruised me trying to cover me up," I joked, poking him in the side with a finger. "All jokes aside, Emmett. I really do love Edward. I want to marry him after college. I plan on spending my entire life with him." "I'm sorry for treating you like a little kid. I guess when I looked at you I saw the memory of the gangly Squirt, instead of the beautiful Bella before me." "So what are we going to do about the house?" "For now, I'm going to just keep it like it is. Keep all the utilities on. Let's just give our new living arrangements a chance and if for any reason things don't work out, we still have this place." "I'm sure Rose and you will be just fine, Emmett." "And I'm starting to see Edward and you will be, too." "We should probably get back in there and help pack. It is our stuff, after all." It took us a few hours to get everything finished. Emmett and I both ended up leaving a lot in the house, not quite ready to part with it, but not wanting to take it with us either. Our family was very understanding. Emmett and I went down to our parent's room. Alice and Jasper had let us know the room was cleared. Emmett slowly pushed the door open. I stepped in first, preparing myself for the memories that would come. But none came. The room was empty, except for a few boxes on the stripped down mattress. Alice had told me the boxes contained pictures and my mother's jewelry box. "It looks so different," I said softly.

"Without their stuff, I can't remember what this room looked like with them in it. It's been years since I've come in here." "All the love they had between the two of them all those years they were together There's nothing to show for it. They're dead and gone and no one even knows they lived." "You are so wrong, Isabella Marie. You get so caught up in missing them that it makes you dense. You and I are the proof that they lived. The way we live our lives, the good people that surround us That's the proof they were good parents. It sucks that they didn't get to stick around. I miss them a lot, too. But it's time to be happy about the times you did have with them instead of mourning the ones you'll never get. They're watching you, you know. And as proud as you make them, every time you get sad, you make them sad, too. Be happy so they can be happy with you." "When did you become so deep and smart?" I asked with a grin. "It usually happens when you start being stupid. Maybe you should be stupid more often." "Ha, ha! So how do I not mourn them when I think about them?" "Well, you could start with smiling when you think of them instead of getting that little crease in your forehead. Between you and me, that crease is ug-ly!" Emmett said, with mock disgust. I laughed and hugged my big brother tightly. "You are the best big brother ever, Emmett Swan!" "Can I get that in trophy form? I do have a birthday coming up, you know!" I laughed and shook my head at my brother. "Come on! Let's go get your stuff over to Rose's house!" Six hours later, Jasper and Emmett were returning the truck with Rose and Alice following to take them to their new homes. I was crashed out on Edward's couch from sheer exhaustion. Edward was going through my CDs and adding them to his wall. I smiled at how happy he was to include me in his life. I closed my eyes and tried to ignore the ache in my feet. I would have to start running again. Now that I wasn't working, my muscles were getting a little soft.

"Did I ever thank you for the brilliant way you changed around my CDs during that dare?" Edward asked suddenly. I thought hard for a second. "I don't think so. Not that you need to. I knew your CDs were a big deal to you so I just figured that was a good way to win the dare and show you I was a good friend at the same time." "It worked," Edward laughed. "I think I want to start running again." "Where did that come from?" Edward chuckled. "My feet hurt. I'm not working anymore and my legs and feet are getting soft." I heard some cases clatter against each other and then I felt my legs being lifted. I popped open one eye to see Edward pulling off my shoes and socks. He took my feet into his hands and started massaging them. "Wow!" I sighed. "Is there anything you don't know how to do?" "According to you, playing guitar and stringing lights are beyond me." I laughed as I opened my eyes to look at him. "I'm sure you'll learn those in time, too. Thank you." "You're welcome. So about this running thing?" "I used to run in the early morning. As long as I don't think too hard about my feet, I'm actually a pretty good runner. It's the walking that gets me." Edward laughed at that. "Have you ever run on a treadmill?" "Sure! Emmett keeps a bunch down in the basement at the old homestead. He likes to practice that dance from that OK Go group," I said, hoping he would pick up on my sarcasm. "What?" he laughed. "Get your laptop out. I'll show you."

He got up and went into his messenger bag. He brought me his laptop, having already turned it on for me. I brought up the internet and went to My favorite site for finding stupid human tricks! I typed in OK Go and pulled up the video for their song "Here it Goes Again". I scooted over to Edward so he could see the screen with me. We watched the video together, snickering and snorting throughout the entire thing. At the end, we both started laughing uncontrollably. "Oh," he laughed, wiping at the tears streaming down his cheeks. "How did you find that?" "Angela's boyfriend Ben was looking for some ninja stuff and somehow came across it. He showed it to her and she knew I would love it so she showed it to me. What did you think of it?" "Emmett would kill himself trying to do that!" "Bears don't fit well on treadmills," I chuckled. "Besides, I'm smart enough to know when not to show things to Emmett. He's never seen this as far as I know." "That's probably a very smart idea. But getting back to the treadmill topic, I was just thinking you could use the machines at the gym on the days when Emmett, Jasper and I go there." "I'll think about it. It would be fun to see Emmett lifting weights again. I haven't seen that in a while. And I am curious about what you do there to keep yourself looking so darn cute." Edward laughed at me and I smiled at him. Before he even opened his mouth, I knew what he was going to say and decided to beat him to it. "You are so absurd, Bella," I said, mimicking his voice. He laughed harder then pulled me into a tight hug. "I love you, my very absurd Bella." "I love you, Edward." "Edward! Bella! Dinner!" Esme called out. "Oh! That requires walking!" I moaned.

"Stand up on the sofa, Bella," Edward instructed, as he stood on the floor in front of me. I did as he said. He turned around, leaving his back facing me. "Get on." "Edward," I laughed. "Are you insane?" "Just get on!" he said. "If you break your back, it'll be all your fault," I replied, wrapping my arms and legs tightly around him. "Loosen your grip on my neck before I faint," he chuckled. I did as he asked with a million butterflies invading my stomach. He put his arms under my legs and walked out of the room. He stopped a little ways before the stairs started and jumped up with me. I squealed and buried my face against his neck. He laughed and started down the stairs. Esme was waiting at the bottom to find out what all the noise was about. She saw us and started laughing. Edward somehow managed to shrug while holding me. Esme swatted his shoulder with her dishtowel as he passed her on the way to the kitchen. Carlisle looked up from the table and started laughing at the sight of us. "Edward, what are you doing?" "Bella's feet hurt," he chuckled, as he set me down in a chair. "Just so we're clear, that was not my idea," I said to Carlisle. I jumped up from my seat and surprised Carlisle with a hug around his neck. "Thank you for my gift and thank you for taking me in." "You are welcome for both," Carlisle replied, patting my hand. I let him and go and went over to Esme, hugging her around her waist. She returned the hug and kissed the top of my head. "No need to say it, Bella," Esme whispered. "I can see it in your face and feel it in your hug." I let her go and smiled at her. "Do you need any help?"

"Would you carry the salad bowl over for me?" Esme asked. "Absolutely," I replied. I took the bowl in both hands and carefully walked it over to the table. I saw Edward watching me and smiling at me. I winked at him and he started chuckling. It was now so easy to get him to laugh, it was pretty amazing. Everything about my life had become pretty amazing lately. I smiled, thinking back to my earlier conversation with Emmett. I hoped he was right and my parents were looking down on me, seeing how truly happy I was. Through Edward, I'd discovered that family isn't just the people who gave birth to you or raised you It's the people who love you. Emmett, Rosalie, Jasper, Alice, Carlisle, Esme, Angela, Ben, and Edward they were my family and I couldn't have dreamed up a better one if I had tried.

Chapter 59 - A Quiet Night at Home Part 1 I found myself smiling goofily once again. Bella was here with me, living here with me, never having to leave me except for school. How did I get this lucky? I watched her as she sorted her clothing, putting it on the shelves I had cleared out for her in our closet. She was so beautiful. And she had smiled more today than she had in weeks. I had been so worried today would be rough on her, but she was taking it all so well. "What are you thinking about?" Bella asked, pulling me out of my thoughts. She was sitting right next to me on our bed. I pulled her into my arms, putting my face against her neck and taking a deep breath. "You." "And just what were you thinking about me?" "I was thinking you are extremely beautiful and that I love your smile. I was also thinking we've done enough work for one day. Is there any chance of convincing you to call it a night and join me in a hot bath?" "That is the best idea you've had all day, Edward. You run the bath water and I'll get my stuff." "And you can leave it all in the bathroom this time," I said, pulling her in for a quick kiss.

"This is so amazing, Edward. I can't believe I'm really getting to be with you all the time now." "You have no idea how happy I am you chose to stay here with me, Bella." She traced my lips with her thumb. "I'm pretty sure the smile that's been plastered on your face all day has given me some idea. Besides, it would have been impossible to let you stay at my house. You can't be without your piano and it could never fit in there. You know, if we ever end up getting a house of our own, we should make sure it's has a big open living room like the one here, but without the wall. I love watching you play too much." "Why is that?" "There are only two times when this brow of yours is perfectly smooth and your face is peaceful," she said, running her hands across my forehead and down my cheeks. "When you are sleeping and when you are playing." "You watch me sleep?" "No more than you watch me. Actually, you probably watch me a lot more with the talking. Have you heard anything good lately?" The curiosity in her deep, brown eyes was unmistakable. I wondered why she was asking me this. "A few things," I replied, trying to draw her out. "Like what?" "My name. And that you love me." "That's not bad." "Not at all." "So anything else interesting come up lately?" Bella asked, trying to appear nonchalant. "Why don't you just tell me about your dream and I'll tell you if I've heard any part of it?" I offered. It was becoming clear what dream she was referring to and I wanted her to mention it. I knew she would blush and I loved seeing her cheeks turn red.

"I don't think so, Tutor-boy. If you didn't hear it, then I'm not spilling it." She was going to be stubborn. Time for a different tactic. I leaned up and whispered into her ear, "Do you mean the other night when you were moaning my name?" Bella stopped breathing and I chuckled. She slapped my shoulder. "I think you're just guessing." "And I think you forced me to take a very cold shower just so I would leave you sleeping." "It's your fault," Bella blushed, moving off the bed. "You're too darn cute." "Where are you going?" "To get my stuff, silly. Aren't you supposed to be running a bath?" "Yeah," I chuckled as I got up and went into our bathroom. I turned the water on, getting it nice and steamy. I thought about bubbles, but I wanted to see my Bella tonight. She walked in and started putting away her bathroom items. I smiled, enjoying the little ways in which she was imprinting herself into my life. I went back into our room and grabbed my clothing for after. My cell phone rang. I turned and stared at it for a moment. Who would call at this hour? I picked it up and looked at the name. I smiled and flipped it open. "Do you miss me already?" "Yes, but that's not why I'm calling," Alice replied. "I just wanted to see how Bella was doing." "Really well so far. She's been smiling more today than she has all week." "I'm really happy to hear that, Edward." "What else do you want, sister dear?" "I want Bella and you to come shopping with me tomorrow afternoon."

"Why?" "I want Bella's opinion on a few items for the condo. I also have something I want to get for Jazz and I would like your opinion on that item. I'll pick you both up at two sharp!" "I haven't asked Bella if she wants to go." "She does. Trust me. Now get back to whatever you were doing." "Love you too, Ali," I laughed. "I was fine until you did that!" Alice cried with a sniffle. "You are horrible, Edward Anthony!" I laughed again. "Alice, I tell you something nice and you call me horrible. Are you okay?" "I didn't think I would actually miss you and the parents so much." "Guilt trip delivered, received and accepted. Bella and I will be ready to go at two." "Thank you, Edward! Love you, little brother! See you tomorrow!" Alice chirped before hanging up. I closed my phone and shook my head at it. I walked into the bathroom and lost my train of thought as I caught sight of the gorgeous woman sitting in our bathtub. Bella opened her eyes and turned her head toward me. "Was that Alice on the phone?" I forced myself to remember how to speak. "Yes. We'll be going shopping with her tomorrow afternoon." "How did she guilt you?" "She told me she missed me and sniffled," I admitted as I took off my clothing. "Sneaky little pixie," Bella chuckled. I climbed into the tub and wrapped my arms around Bella, holding her tightly to me. She took one my hands and started playing with my fingers.

"This was a good idea. Just the two of us, relaxing. I was thinking maybe you and I should make dinner for Carlisle and Esme tomorrow night. It would be a nice way to thank them for letting us live together like this. I know it's not something a lot of parents would allow." "Carlisle and Esme are very loving people. Not to mention that my mother was being perfectly serious when she said she wasn't ready for me to move out." "Esme and you are much closer now. I like seeing that. But why is it? I mean, I could tell the first time we talked about her, you were very devoted to her." "I love my mother very much, Bella. It hurt me to keep her away from me, but she and Alice are alike in many respects. If I had not put that distance between us, I would have explained about Jessica and I never want my mother to know about that." "But why?" "Mostly because the exact circumstances are not something anyone wants to tell their mother. Some of it is shame from being so easily fooled. And then there are the things I believe my mother would do if she knew. Shunning people may sound rather oldfashioned, but I assure you it still occurs. No matter what Jessica did, her parents don't deserve to be shunned for her mistake. My mother will see that differently." "How can you care so much about someone who hurt you?" "I don't care about her, Bella. I just don't want my mother to waste time or energy on people who don't deserve it." "Well why didn't you say that to start with? That actually makes sense." I chuckled at my beautiful Bella. She was always surprising me with her statements. "Why don't we move onto a better topic?" "Like what?" "Do you feel prepared for your math exam on Tuesday?" "I thought you said we were moving on to better topics." I grabbed the washcloth out of the water and put Bella's bodywash on it. I pushed her up into a sitting position and started washing her back for her. "It is a better topic. You have to admit you've been doing much better this semester."

"All thanks to you and your tutoring." "And to you for slowing down and believing in your capabilities." "Yeah, that too," she chuckled. I handed her the towel, and then started cupping water into my hand and washed the soap from her back. "What class is your current favorite?" "Same one from the beginning of the year and I expect it will be the same at the end of the year," she replied. "My literature class. You know my Frankenstein paper was a huge hit with the teacher." "Do tell," I said as I kissed her back. "My teacher said no one had ever argued that the townsfolk were the monsters in the story. She said every student she's ever had has either written about the doctor or the monster. She especially liked how I pointed out that the monster was only driven to dark ways because he succumbed to the peer pressure of the evil townsfolk." "And here I was worrying your teacher would think you slightly insane. Sounds like she considers you to be brilliant." "She may have mentioned the words 'absolutely most talented' or something to that effect," she chuckled as she washed her feet. "She also asked me about something you asked me about." "Really?" "Yes. She asked me if I had thought of teaching at the college level. She said if I changed my major now, then I wouldn't have to worry about adding classes to catch up. She says it's early enough in my academic career to switch to the higher level and only add two extra classes next semester to catch up." "Do you think you can handle that workload?" I asked with concern. Bella had given me the towel back and I quickly washed myself. The water was starting to get cold. "Well one class would be a higher level psychology class and I'm not worried about that at all. But the other class would be a speech class. All of the presentations in the class will be oral. Some of them you'll have time to prepare for and others will be decided at the beginning of class. I can just imagine myself stuttering and turning red in front of everyone. I was going to put the class off for another year, but with the

higher level requirements, I'll end up taking three different speech classes and I can't put off the first one any longer." "You aren't going to let your fear of attention get in the way of you becoming Professor Cullen, are you?" I asked as I stood up. I grinned at her, letting her know I was teasing her. Bella might hate attention, but she was rarely too scared to take on a challenge. I'd heard Angela call her the 'Fearless Bella Swan' a few times and I had to agree with Angela about that. Bella snorted as she took my hand and got out of the tub. "Probably not. But you never know with me." I tossed her a towel. "So I've learned." She shrugged as she wrapped the towel around her. "I told you I'm not like most people." "I know," I said, walking over to her and hugging her tightly. "And I love that about you." "I'm going to play some music. Any requests?" "Whatever you choose will be fine," I replied, letting her go. I dried off and dressed quickly. She was just closing the CD drawer on the stereo when I walked into our room. She smiled at me and went back into the bathroom to dress. I listened as the music started out with an acoustic guitar and drums. I could tell from the rhythm and tempo it was country. What was Bella thinking? She knew I hated country music. You got someone here wants to make it alright Someone that loves you more than life right here You got willing arms that'll hold you tight A hand to lead you on through the night right here I know your heart can get all tangled up inside But don't you keep it to yourself When your long day is over And you can barely drag your feet The weight of the world is on your shoulders

I know what you need Bring it on home to me You know I know you like the back of my hand Did you know I'm gonna do all that I can, right here I'm gonna lie with you till you fall asleep When the morning comes I'm still gonna be right here. Oh, yes I am So take your worries and just drop them at the door Baby leave it all behind When your long day is over And you can barely drag your feet The weight of the world is on your shoulders I know what you need Bring it on home to me Baby let me be your safe harbor Don't let the water come and carry you away When your long day is over And you can barely drag your feet The weight of the world is on your shoulders I know what you need Bring it on home to me You got someone here wants to make it alright Someone who loves you more than life right here (Bring it on home Little Big Town) I looked up to see Bella peaking at me from the bathroom door. I smiled at her and opened my arms. She held up one finger. She went to the stereo and put on one of the classical music CDs. She ran to our bed and crawled into my arms, hugging me tightly. "Did you like it?" she asked. "It was tolerable. You know my feelings on country music." "I kind of like it." "And why is that?" "Were you listening to the words?"

"Yes." "So what do you think the song was about?" I grabbed her hands and twined our fingers together. "I think it was about trusting the person in your life to help you with all of life's troubles." "Good to know I'm not the only observant one in this relationship," she chuckled. She looked up at me, love shining in her beautiful, big brown eyes. "I just thought it said everything you were trying to tell me last week when I couldn't sleep. Thank you for not throwing a fit. I promise to limit your exposure to country." "Limit?" I laughed. "Oh, yes. I won't break out the hard core stuff just yet. I'll ease you into it." "Bella, I hate country." "Edward, I will show you the benefits of country music. I don't like all of it, but there are some very good songs out there. Besides, the less you fuss, the easier I'll go on you." "Is that so?" I asked, turning her around to face me. "Absolutely," she whispered before leaning in and kissing me. My entire body reacted to her lips pressing against mine. With the craziness of the week and the move, it had been so long since we'd had time to ourselves for anything more than a few kisses. I cupped her neck and head in my hand and wrapped my other arm around her waist, pulling her tighter against me. Bella responded by wrapping her arms around my neck. I let us fall back onto the bed with her on top of me. I slid the hand lying on her back under her shirt and rubbed it across her silky soft skin. She moaned softly and I smiled. I felt her smile, too. She pulled away and looked down at me. "I love you, Edward." No words in the English language had ever sounded sweeter to me. I pulled her back to me, finishing our kiss.

Chapter 60 - A Quiet Night at Home Part 2 (Lemon)

"So what do you think the song was about?" I asked Edward, hoping he had been listening. He moved my hands from behind him and locked our fingers together. "I think it was about trusting the person in your life to help you with all of life's troubles." "Good to know I'm not the only observant one in this relationship," I chuckled. I looked up at him, willing him to see how much I loved him. "I just thought it said everything you were trying to tell me last week when I couldn't sleep. Thank you for not throwing a fit. I promise to limit your exposure to country." "Limit?" he laughed. "Oh, yes. I won't break out the hard core stuff just yet. I'll ease you into it." "Bella, I hate country." "Edward, I will show you the benefits of country music. I don't like all of it, but there are some very good songs out there. Besides, the less you fuss, the easier I'll go on you." "Is that so?" He turned me around so I was facing him. "Absolutely," I whispered. I leaned toward him and kissed him softly. It was supposed to be a little kiss, but Edward put one of his hands at my neck and wrapped his arm around my waist. I doubt air could have passed between us. It had been entirely too long since we'd had enough time alone to kiss this way, to touch this way. I wrapped my arms around his neck, trying to keep my hands out of his hair for just a little while. He laid down on the bed, pulling me down on top of him. He moved his hand under my shirt and rubbed back and forth across my skin. His touch was as electrifying as ever. I couldn't stop myself from moaning as my body flushed with the heat of his touch. He smiled against my lips, letting me know he had heard me moan and had felt me blush. I smiled too, wondering how he could affect me so much. I pulled away and looked down at my wonderful, perfect boyfriend. "I love you, Edward." His green eyes were full of love and tenderness, mixed quite thoroughly with desire. He pulled me back to him and started kissing me again. This time he licked at my

bottom lip. I decided to tease him a little. I kept my lips tightly closed. Edward moved his hand from my back to the side of my breast and I gasped. He chuckled against my mouth as he slipped his tongue in. I teasingly bit his tongue. We both started laughing. "What was that?" he asked, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. "You were cheating," I said, smiling at him. "You were teasing." "I most certainly was." I leaned down and kissed him, behaving and letting him in this time. I moved my hands under shirt and rubbed his stomach muscles, tracing the defined lines along his abs. I pulled away and tugged at his shirt. He sat up and let me take it off. I let him take mine off in return. "You are so beautiful," Edward said, staring into my eyes. He made me feel like he was staring into my heart and soul when he looked at me in that way. "Edward, what do you see when you look at me?" He reached out a hand and stroked my hair. "I see a beautiful young woman. I see brown hair that's silky and soft. And when you see it in the sunlight, there are little red flecks in it. I see warm brown eyes that look deeper than should be possible. Those eyes let me know what you're feeling and sometimes thinking. I see a heart-shaped face that's usually pale, but takes on the most beautiful shades of red or pink when you get embarrassed." Edward ran his finger across my bottom lip. "I see soft red lips that constantly chase away my thoughts and make me want to kiss you forever." He moved his hand down and placed it over my beating heart. "I see a heart and soul filled with love and goodwill. I see the beauty of those two things outshines any physical beauty in this wide world." "Wow! I was just figuring you'd say beautiful, but all of that works, too!" "Bella," he chuckled as he pulled me into a hug. "I love you so much. Even your quirky sense of humor." "Oh, don't pretend! You know my sense of humor is what ensnared you to begin with!" "How do you figure that?"

I leaned back and looked at him, once again enjoying seeing his love for me in his sparkling emerald eyes. I touched my hand to his cheek, near his temple. "The first time I saw you laugh, a true one that reached your beautiful eyes, was that first night when I told you about scissors and missing appendages." "Did you know no one had gotten me to laugh that way in nearly three years?" "Really? But you hung out with Emmett so much?" "It's not the same. You aren't the same. Everything you say is so refreshing and different from what others would say in the same circumstances. It's one of the many things I love about you, Bella." I pushed on his shoulder until he was lying down on the bed. I kissed up his neck and along his jaw. "I love you. I've missed you this week." "You made that clear with your little dream," he chuckled as he tried to breathe. I nibbled his ear lightly. "Just what did you hear from that dream?" I moved down and started trailing kisses across his chest. "I think it would be easier to show you," he whispered, running his fingers down my sides. I shivered from the sensation. "I'm sure I could get you to repeat a few of those sounds." I laughed as I sat up to look at him. "Is that so?" He wrapped his arms around my back and before I could protest, I was underneath him. He smirked at me before leaning down and kissing me. He moved his lips to the hollow behind my ear, knowing it was a very sensitive spot for me. It took me a moment to remember to breathe. I felt his warm breath against my cheek. "Are you feeling up to this tonight?" he whispered. I smiled, loving how he was more concerned about me than what he might want. "Are you?" "Could you give me an answer for once and not another question? I want to know what you want." I stared into his eyes for a long moment, watching his desire flicker there as he patiently waited for my answer. I could also see the longing he felt for me. I think he

had missed me this week as much as I had missed him. "I want you, Edward. I want to feel your hands all over me. I want to have your lips on mine. And when we've made love and we're as close as we can get, I want us to hold each other and for you to hum to me." "That's very specific, Isabella," he whispered as he moved his lips closer to mine. "Do want that in any particular order?" "Whatever order you choose is just fine with me," I replied. He closed the distance between our lips. The kiss started out soft and gentle, but still filled with emotion. He slowly deepened it until the only way we were able to breathe was through the exchanged breaths we blew into each others mouths. His hands were everywhere at once. They roamed up and down my sides, over my breasts, and across my stomach, just below my belly button. Every single part of me seemed to be overheated as his hands and lips moved over my body. It was absolutely amazing and we were still mostly dressed. I couldn't even imagine what was to come. He must have noticed how much clothing we still had on because he stopped doing all the wonderful things that had been driving me crazy and started pulling down my pajama pants and underwear. I lifted myself to make it easier for him. I chuckled as he threw my clothes over his shoulder, never taking his eyes from me. He quickly took off the rest of his clothing and got back on the bed with me. "I don't think I'll ever stop being amazed by how perfect and beautiful you are," he whispered as he kissed along my jaw. His lips found mine once again as he let his weight down on me, keeping most of it on his arms. He stopped and hugged me suddenly. "I love you so much, Isabella. It would kill me if you weren't here with me." "Where did that come from?" I whispered, holding him tightly against me. "I don't know. I just love you so much and sometimes, it feels like my heart is going to burst from it." I smiled at his words. "I feel that way, too. And I don't ever plan on going where you aren't." I pulled his face to mine and pressed our lips together again. I needed him to know I meant what I said. I wasn't going anywhere. As long as Edward was sure I was the one he wanted, I was going to be there for him, loving him, being loved by him, and

enjoying every minute of it all. How could I not? This was more perfect than any fairytale could ever be! He started up with his wonderful multi-tasking abilities again. I wanted to do the same for him, but I couldn't get my brain to work properly. I settled for gripping his sides and holding on tightly to him. There couldn't possibly have been a single inch of skin on my chest his lips had not covered. He moved across my shoulder and started his way down my arm. "Edward," I moaned, forgetting what words I had wanted to say after that. He ignored me and continued his wonderful torture. He went down my arm, to the inside of my wrist, and across all my fingertips. And when I thought I couldn't stand a single second more, he started at the fingertips on my other hand and worked his way up that arm. How the hell was he so good at this? I wasn't complaining or anything, but I didn't think this was fair at all! It was his turn to get tortured for a while. I let him make his way up my shoulder and over to my neck. I fought my brain and forced it to work. "Edward, my turn." He locked our lips together again as he rolled us across our bed so I could be on top of him. I pulled away, moving my lips to his jaw. I planned to do to him exactly what he had done to me. I kissed him at the base of his throat and smiled when his breathing hitched. His hands flew to my hips and he pulled me away slightly. "Do you have any idea how that affects me?" he panted. His green eyes were darkened with passion. I smiled wickedly and kissed him there again, making sure to put extra pressure and slightly sucking at the skin. Edward let out a deep moan and I smiled, feeling very satisfied with my work. I moved my lips to the area where his neck and shoulder met and repeated my little kiss. He moaned again, pulling me closer to him. I sat up and traced patterns into his chest. I followed my hands with my lips. By the time I got near his hips, he was shivering with anticipation. I pressed my hand to his heart and closed my eyes, enjoying the feeling of his pounding heart against the palm of my hand. I did that! I made him feel this way! As if he could read my mind, he whispered, "You make my heart fly, Isabella. I love you." "I love you, too, Edward," I whispered, as I kissed him softly.

He wrapped his hands around my hips and helped me lower myself onto him. I had to put my hands on his shoulders to brace myself against the wave of pleasure that hit me as he slowly entered me. I closed my eyes and rested my forehead against his. "You okay?" he panted, as he stopped me from moving. I could only nod my head. He started lowering me again until he was completely inside of me. I shivered from the sensations running through me. "Are you cold, Bella?" I managed a hoarse laugh. "No. Far from cold, Edward." He tilted his face and captured my lips into another fevered kiss. He gently rocked my hips to see if I was ready for more. I started moving, letting his hands determine the rhythm for us. We moved together slowly at first, but Edward soon quickened our pace. I gasped from the pleasure of it and he stopped moving. I chuckled at him. "Edward, if you keep stopping us, we are never going to get any sleep tonight," I panted. He smiled at me as he started moving us again. "I just don't want you hurt, Bella." "Edward, we are past the stage of where I can be hurt. Everything you are doing is giving me so much pleasure that I don't know what to do. It's enough just trying not to scream. I'd hate to alert your parents to what we're doing in here." "Bella, we're on the third floor and the stereo is on. If you want to scream, go right ahead." "Yeah, I bet you'd like that, Tutor-boy. Isn't going to happen." He must have taken my words as a personal challenge. As soon as I leaned forward and started kissing him, he jerked his hips up and drove himself even deeper into me. I grabbed his bottom lip between my teeth to keep my scream in. I quickly let him go, hoping I hadn't hurt him. He was chuckling at me and running his tongue over his lip. "Any harder and you would have bit through my skin, love." "Then I suggest you don't do that again."

"Do what?" he asked innocently. I was getting ready to inform him when he jerked his hips again. "Edward!" I cried, raking my nails over his shoulders. I put my hands over my mouth and glared at him. He smiled back. I leaned down and whispered angrily, "That was not cute! I do not want to make things weird with your parents." "Bella, they were young once. They aren't stupid. They don't expect either of us to wait two entire years to be together." "Please, Edward," I pleaded, kissing his cheek tenderly. "We can save this for sometime when they aren't home." "I guess I did forget to mention that," Edward said, smirking at me. "Carlisle took Esme on another date night." I tried to focus on his words and comprehend them, but he was doing that hip thrust thing again and I was screaming his name once again. He somehow managed to pull my lips into another kiss with his. I couldn't tell what part of me was moving faster, my tongue or my hips. I couldn't breathe right with him kissing me this way. I moved my head to his shoulder and tried to pull in air as Edward kept us moving together. My stomach started twisting and tightening as I struggled more and more to get air into my lungs. "Bella," he moaned, as he pressed me harder against him. I could feel him throbbing inside me and that alone was enough to push me over the edge. My back arched as we called out to each other as we reached our release together. I fell against him, shivering and shaking. His chest rose and fell rapidly from our activities. He rubbed my back and kissed the side of my head again and again. He kept whispering he loved me and that I was beautiful. I kept my eyes closed, feeling too dizzy to open them. I felt him move us and then I felt the blanket slide over my skin. He held me tightly, my head resting against his chest. I could hear his heart pounding as he worked to catch his breath. "I love you, Bella. You are so beautiful. I hope you know I would tell you that even if we hadn't just shared that."

"I know. I love you, too." We were quiet for a long time, just trying to slow our breathing and enjoying the closeness we were feeling. Edward stroked my hair tenderly. I ran my hand back and forth above his heart. "Any thoughts on what we should make for Carlisle and Esme tomorrow night?" he whispered. "I was thinking it might be a good time for you to teach me how to make pizza," I whispered back. "We'll need to go to the store to get the proper ingredients." "Good!" "You're very enthusiastic about the grocery store, Bella," he chuckled softly. "It will be another first with you. We've never actually gone shopping together. I suppose we would have if I hadn't been in that cast for so long." "I love how you can take delight in the most mundane activities." "Any activity with you is far from mundane, Edward." "I'm flattered, Bella." "You want flattery? Okay, Tutor-boy. Try this on for size. That statement I made last week, it's true now." "You are going to have to be a lot more specific than that," he chuckled. "You make an awful lot of statements, love." "Take a guess." "Okay. Let me think a minute. Was it you telling me how good of a kisser I am? Have I improved on that?" "Not even close. Guess again." "This would be so much easier if I could just read your mind."

"You're a lot of things, Edward, but superhero ain't one of them," I chuckled. "You really are absurd," he chuckled, hugging me tighter. "I give. My brain still isn't functioning normally yet. It's still dazzled by you and your perfect body." "Sure it is," I said, rolling my eyes. "But I'll tell you anyway. Are you ready to be flattered?" "Why not?" he shrugged. "What you just did, the way you just loved me that was mind-blowing," I told him. Edward's breathing hitched and I started laughing. He pressed me firmly against him with his hands against my back. "Those sounds you made, the way you screamed out for me that was what I heard from your dream." I gasped and Edward laughed. He kissed the top of my head. "Go to sleep my Bella. We've given your poor heart enough of a workout for today." He started humming my lullaby and any arguments I may have had disappeared. I closed my eyes and relaxed completely, loving the way his arms fit securely around me. This was my little piece of Heaven on Earth. I could live this way forever. Right! Just like pigs fly and vampires roam the Earth with their werewolf buddies. If only

Chapter 61 - Pizza Pie Bella had been dancing around all day singing under her breath. Everytime she would almost get loud enough for me to hear what it was, she would catch herself and smile at me. I had tried dazzling her into telling me a few times, but she had resisted all my attempts. She had nearly driven me crazy and Alice's added laughter had not helped matters. Bella was in such a good mood she completely forgot to be worried about attention as she danced around and had me twirling her in the middle of the stores Alice drug us into. We were forced to help my sister shop for three hours straight. I was not surprised at all to find out there really wasn't anything my expertise was needed for. Alice had just wanted to have me around. I finally had to promise another shopping trip just to get her to release us. She was happy to know we were cooking for the parents, though.

Bella and I were picking up all of our ingredients for the pizza. She'd run off to find the sauce I wanted before I could stop her, leaving me to pick out the fresh vegetables. I quickly grabbed what I needed and took off to find her. I couldn't stand not having her at my side for even a minute. I pushed the cart over to the sauce aisle and found her hopping from one foot to the other while looking for the sauce. It was by her feet, but she was looking at the top shelves. I snuck up behind her, hoping to finally find out what she was singing. "When the moon hits your eye - Like a big-a pizza pie - That's amore. When the moon hits your eye - Like a big-a pizza pie - That's amore." I grabbed her from behind and started laughing. "Is that what you've been singing all day?" "Yep!" she chuckled, leaning into my embrace. "Those are the only words I remember." "Bella, you are simply absurd." "Yeah, yeah! But I'm not seeing this sauce you spoke of." "Look down, love." She did and started giggling. "Oh! There it is!" She pulled away from me and grabbed the jar. She set it carefully in the basket and grinned at me. "Having fun yet, Edward?" I laughed as I pulled her back into my arms. "How could I not with you here?" She turned and checked over the vegetables I had picked out. She crinkled her nose slightly. "What is it, love?" She smiled sheepishly at me. "Can you leave mushrooms off a few slices?" "I think we can arrange that. It'll cost you, though." "Is that right?" she asked, wrapping her arms around my neck. I nodded my head. "And just what will it cost?" she asked, brushing her lips over mine.

I lifted her off her feet and kissed her deeply. I slowly set her back down. "I think that covers it," I told her, resting my forehead against hers. She opened her eyes and smiled at me. "I told you the trip to the grocery store would be good." I laughed and spun her around, keeping her between my body and the cart. I didn't want to chance her running off again. We started pushing it together, making our way over to the baking aisle. "We need some flour. Esme was running pretty low on it," I said. "I think you should be in charge of the flour," she chuckled. I smiled, remembering what happened the last time Bella was allowed near a bag of flour. "Yes, we certainly don't want you in another cast." I set the flour into the cart and surveyed our items. "We've got vegetables, sauce, dough, flour, pepperoni, cheese " "Three kinds of cheese!" she interrupted happily. "Yes," I chuckled. "Three kinds of cheese. I think we've got everything." "Nope! You're forgetting the dessert." "Bella, I don't think anyone will have room." "But Edward, it's the first time we're cooking together. I want it to be special. Can we please get a dessert? If no one eats it tonight, we can have it some other time." "What were you thinking of?" "Tiramasu! It's Italian and in the frozen food section so all we have to do is defrost it and viola!" "You know pizza isn't truly Italian, right?" "Shut it, Tutor-boy. Let me have my moment!" "And to think you kiss me with that mouth!" I smiled, pulling her closer by her hips. I loved the way her body fit into my hands. It was as if she was made just for me.

"Keep teasing me and it will be quite a while before you get any more kisses." "Then I'll have to be on my best behavior because there are few things I enjoy more than kissing these lips of yours," I whispered, keeping my lips just inches from hers. "Jeez, Edward!" a booming voice said. Bella and I turned our heads to see Jacob smiling at us. "You can't even do some grocery shopping without attacking the poor girl." "How do you know it wasn't the other way around?" Bella shot back, grinning wickedly and pulling me forward by the loops on my jeans. "Holy hell!" Jacob said, looking shocked. "Jacob, I've never seen you flustered before. It's not a good look on you," I said, trying to hide my smile. "But don't feel too bad. Bella enjoys catching people off guard. You should see her with Alice." "You've caught Alice?" Jacob asked, staring at Bella with awe. "Once or twice," she giggled, wrapping her arms around my back. I glanced at Jacob's overflowing cart. "Stocking up for the end of the world?" "Nah!" Jacob laughed. "I've got some friends staying with me from La Push and the guys eat like their mothers never feed them. I'm actually here with Samantha so if you can stick around on this aisle, you'll finally get to meet her." I looked down into Bella's curious brown eyes. "Samantha is Jacob's girlfriend. I've never gotten to meet her yet since I only ever see Jacob at work." "Yeah, Samantha's got a temper," Jacob chuckled. "She's too likely to beat up the clientele if I let her near the club. She hates it when girls look at me!" "Jacob! You were supposed to meet me over by the beer!" a young woman with shiny black eyes said as she stalked towards Jacob. Her hair was shoulder length and the color was somewhere between a very dark brown and a black. Her bangs framed her delicate eyebrows and thick lashes perfectly. She was almost as short as Alice, but one look at her told you she could hold her own with Jacob. "Someone's in trouble," Bella sang softly. I chuckled under my breath.

"Shut up," Jacob hissed through his fake smile. "Samantha, honey! Look who I ran into it! You remember me telling you all about Edward?" "Edward? Is that the guy with the crazy sister who wanted to beat you up for almost getting him arrested?" Samantha asked, glancing at Bella and me. "I didn't say it like that, but yes," Jacob replied. Samantha took a deep breath then smiled at us. "Sorry. Jacob has hisfriends over this weekend and they are eating us out of our house and home. I'm usually not rude." She put her hand out. "Let's start over. Hi, I'm Samantha, Jake's girlfriend." I shook her hand first. "Edward." Bella shook her hand quickly. "Bella." "Jake always speaks highly of you, Edward. It's nice to finally meet you. And to meet a friend of Jake's who doesn't want to clean out my fridge," Samantha said, giving Jacob a little glare. I chuckled. "I am sorry you are being so taxed. I'm sure it takes enough just to keep Jacob well fed on a daily basis." "You aren't kidding," Samantha sighed. "We should get together sometime. But for now, we have to get back home before Paul, Embry and Quill start eating the furniture." "I'd say she was poking fun, but with those guys " Jacob chuckled. "Anyways, any plans to come out to the club soon?" "It's hard to know with school. And Alice finally moved in with Jasper," I told him. "It's about time," Jacob chuckled. "Jake," Samantha said, giving him an exasperated look. "Catch you later, Edward," Jacob said, with a little salute. "See you around, Jacob," I told him, watching Samantha and him walk off down the aisle. "She was really cute. But a little scary," Bella whispered, looking up at me.

I leaned down and kissed her quickly. "Not to worry, love. I would have protected you if necessary." "And just who would have protected you?" Bella laughed, poking me in the stomach. I flinched and she smiled wider. She wrapped me in her arms and said, "I love you, Edward." "I love you more," I said, kissing the tip of her nose. "Let's get your dessert and get home." Bella nodded and we made our way over to the frozen food section. She found what she considered to be the most authentic box of frozen Italian dessert and placed it into the cart. We checked out and got everything back to our house. Bella opened the dessert and set it on the counter to defrost. I laid the ingredients out on the kitchen island. "I normally clean and cut the vegetables first. I'll need a bowl for each. Onions, mushrooms, black olives, and green peppers." I turned to the cabinet next to the sink and pulled out the bowls I needed. "What should I do?" Bella asked. "Can you slice the pepperoni?" I asked, putting the bowls down onto the island. "Sure." "The cutting board is right under the sink. Go ahead and cut it here at the island, so I can use the sink for the vegetables." "Okay." "You take direction really well, Bella." "You are the one who knows what he's doing." "The last time I tried this, Alice was the student and she was far from cooperative." I turned on the water and started rinsing the vegetables off. "That was your first mistake!" she laughed. "You can't have two Alphas in the kitchen at the same time."

"So you are the Beta, Bella?" I asked, trying not to laugh. "Oh, no, Edward. I am the Alpha, the Beta and the Omega, but I'm letting you have your moment to shine." I dropped the onion I had been holding and spun around to look at her. She clapped her hands together and laughed at me. "Got you!" she sang. "Bella " " you are absurd. I know, I get it!" She chuckled as she unwrapped the pepperoni. I turned back to the sink, shaking my head. I finished washing the vegetables and pulled out the extra cutting board. "Edward, is there a radio down here? We need some music!" I dried off my hands and went to the little radio hidden under the cabinet next to the refrigerator. I found an oldies station I knew played Sinatra and Dean Martin. "This should blend nicely with our Italian theme." Bella wrinkled her nose at me. "Give it a try, love. I gave country a try last night." "You did," she conceded. "I promise to give your music a try." I started cutting up the vegetables as the music filled the kitchen. I recognized the song by the low saxophone sound. It was 'Tenderly' by Ella Fitzgerald. I looked over my shoulder to see Bella. She was gently swaying to the song as she carefully cut the slices. I smiled, feeling happy to have introduced her to something new. I finished cutting up the vegetables and took the cutting board over to the island. I scooped the vegetables into their bowls. Bella smiled up at me. "Is this enough?" I looked down at the slices on her board. "Perfect. Would you mind washing the boards while I get the flour and dough ready?"

"Not at all. The farther away I am from the flour the better off we both are." I grabbed a plate and put it onto the island. She scooped the slices onto the plate then took the boards from me. The song on the radio changed. I wasn't sure yet what it was, but it was a busy tune. I looked over to see Bella dancing at the sink. I chuckled to myself as I pulled out the dough for the pizza crust. I set the bag of flour in the middle of the island to be sure it wouldn't get knocked over by accident. I reached under the island and pulled out my mother's rolling pin. Bella came over and leaned down on her elbows, watching me closely. "You have to put flour on the roller and the dough so they won't stick to each other or the island," I explained. I moved the plate and bowls further down the island. I opened the bag of flour and took a handful, sprinkling it over the countertop. "It's easier to get it on the dough this way." I took the ball of dough and pressed it into the flour, rolling it until the entire ball was covered. I sprinkled flour on the rolling pin while I turned it with my other hand. I pressed the pin against the dough and started to flatten it out. I stopped a few times to sprinkle more flour on the rolling pin. "I'm impressed," she said suddenly. I looked up at her, waiting for her to continue. "Well, you've been sprinkling away and you only have flour on your hands and a little on your shirt. I doubt I would do that well." "Come over here with me and let's find out." "We want to feed them sometime tonight, Edward. You better do it." "Get over here before I go and collect you," I said, lifting an eyebrow at her. She chuckled, but came around the counter. "Stick your hand in the bag and grab the flour. You're going to sprinkle it over the pin while I turn it." Bella did as I asked and managed to keep the flour on the counter. "See? That wasn't so bad." She giggled and clapped her hands together, sending a cloud of flower over her face and shirt. I stared at her, trying hard not to laugh. Her brown eyes widened and she

looked down at herself and then up at me. I couldn't hold it in any longer. I started laughing at her, clutching at my side as I shook hard from it. She turned toward the counter. I tried to stop myself from laughing so I could apologize. "Be Bel Bella," I finally managed. She turned back to me, cocking her arm back. I instinctively closed my eyes and felt something hit my face and neck. I blinked my eyes open to see her smiling wickedly at me. I wiped a finger against my cheek and held it out before me. She had pelted me with flour. I returned her wicked grin as I strode forward, locking her between my body and the counter. She squealed, unsure of what I was planning. I held her arms at her sides and rubbed my cheeks against hers, giving back some of the flour. She laughed and tried to get her wrists away from me. "What on Earth?" my mother yelled from the doorway. I looked up to see her trying not to smile. "I was teaching Bella how to make pizza," I replied with a smile. "It looks like you were teaching her how to make a mess," my mother chuckled. "You two start cleaning up the extra flour. I'll be right back." She left the room. Bella stared up at me. "Is she mad?" "No. She's up to something. Let's get this mess cleaned so we can finish making the pizza. This time, you stay away from the flour." "Deal!" She wet the end of the dishcloth and turned to me. She softly wiped away all the flour from my face and neck. When she was done, she gave me a little kiss on the lips. "You'll have to shower the rest out of your hair tonight," she said, brushing a few strands away from my forehead. I took the towel from her and cleaned her cheeks off. I kissed her forehead. "Don't forget to wash your hands."

She smiled at me and turned toward the sink. I went back to the island and finished up with the crust. I pulled out a tray and set the crust on it. Bella came back over, carrying the sauce jar. I turned and pulled out a spreader from the utensil drawer. She slowly poured the sauce onto the crust while I spread it out. My mother came back into the room. "Stop for just a second. I have something I want to show you." Bella put down the sauce jar and I laid the spreader on the edge of the crust. We followed my mother over to the kitchen table. We sat down and she pushed a photo towards us. It was a young couple laughing and hugging. They appeared to be covered in flour. I chuckled. "What is this?" "When your father and I were first together, we lived in a very tiny apartment near the college campus. We didn't have much money and we could never afford to eat out. Your father used to save up and once a month, he would buy expensive ingredients and make a special dinner for us. On this night, my Aunt Elizabeth was visiting. Your father decided home-made pizza would be our special dinner. I was trying to help him and he kept trying to tell me he knew what he was doing. Mind you, the dough was sticking to everything but itself. Well, when I pointed out that he hadn't used enough flour he tossed a handful at me. I retaliated. We ended up coating each other and every possible surface with flour. It took me nearly a week to get it all out. My Aunt snapped this picture. She told me she was positive Carlisle and I would have a lasting marriage. She said she'd never seen two people who could take such a mundane moment and turn it into a beautiful memory. When she passed away a few years later, she left everything to me with instructions to live a good life with Carlisle and raise a loving family." "I bet your aunt is very proud of you," Bella said softly. My mother smiled brightly and put her hand on Bella's cheek. "Just as your parents are of you, dear. Now! No more dilly-dallying! If you get the pizza in the oven in the next ten minutes, it will be ready just as your father gets home." Bella stood and walked over to the counter. I moved toward my mother and leaned down, kissing her cheek. "Thank you for showing me that."

She patted my shoulder. "Bella and you remind me so much of your father and I. Be happy, Edward. What you have with Bella is very special and will last forever if you take good care of it." I hugged her and kissed her again. "I love you and I'm sorry for the last few years." "I know, son. No need to speak of it. Go and help Bella now." I smiled at how easily my mother had forgiven me. For the first time in years, I felt completely happy and free. I walked over to Bella and kissed her cheek. She smiled brightly at me, warming my heart even more. My life felt complete and it could all be traced back to choosing to go to dinner with Alice. I really would have to get her something special for her birthday.

Chapter 62 - Conversations I was dancing with excitement as I cleaned up our room. Edward and I had been living together in his parents home for a little over a year now. I was the messy one, of course! But cleaning wasn't the thrilling thing. It was that today was the last day of classes for Edward! I'd had my last final yesterday. We would have the entire summer together this year! I wouldn't be working and I wouldn't need summer school for math this time. Three months of nothing but time with Edward, doing whatever we wanted. And when school started back up in the fall, it would be the final semester for both of us. We would be graduating right before Christmas. Even more thrilling, after graduation, we would be free to set a date for our wedding! Alice and I were making plans for Edward's birthday next month. I stopped and sighed happily at that thought. He was going to be so blown away! We were planning a huge surprise party for him. I was learning to play his piano in secret so I could play for his birthday. Alice was in charge of the venue and decorations and she was as thrilled as she had been planning Emmett and Rosalie's wedding! My brother and sister-in-law had gotten married the previous summer and Rose was now four months pregnant. They had an appointment next week that would tell us if it was a girl or a boy! I was going to be someone's aunt!

I let my mind drift back over the last year and a half with Edward. He was still just as wonderful and perfect as he had been when I met him. He was as much of a gentleman and as concerned for my happiness as he ever had been. We spent every Saturday night meeting up with everyone. We alternated between the movies and going to the club where Jacob worked. Edward and I had even gone on a few double-dates with Jacob and Samantha. She really was much nicer outside of the grocery store. I hadn't had any nightmares since right before Emmett moved out of the house. Edward kept them all away. And I found I loved him a little more each day, even though I couldn't understand how it could be possible. Edward meant everything to me and I loved him more than I could ever say. I wanted him to have the best life possible. I shook my head to clear my mind. I needed to get this work done. I could ponder my happy life later. I grabbed up our dirty clothes and headed downstairs to do a load of laundry. I thought I was alone in the house, but I heard his parents' voices coming from the open door to his father's study. I repositioned my bundle so I could knock, but then my ear picked up what they were talking about. "Carlisle, you're being silly," Esme said. "He's so bright, Esme," Carlisle insisted. "He can be ten times the doctor I could ever be. But he'll never choose that path with Bella in his life. He can't stand to leave her side even for school as it is. If he's constantly being paged or going to seminars he'll never do it, Esme. It's a waste." "You are wrong, my darling husband," Esme countered. "No matter what path Edward chooses, he will be using one of his many talents and he will go above and beyond to be the best at it." "Esme, I'm sorry, but I can't help but feel Edward will be settling if he chooses to become a music instructor at his college," Carlisle replied. "Don't get me wrong. I love Bella as if she were my own daughter. I truly do. But I don't see how she can let him toss it all away." "Carlisle!" Esme fussed. "How can you say that? You know that Edward's choice not to attend medical school is his own. And think of the lives our son would touch with his

love of music. Have you ever watched his face when he talks about his music or plays? He may be smart enough to be a brilliant surgeon, but it's not his passion. I thought we always said we wanted our children to be passionate about every part of their lives. I thought we agreed we would let them make the choices that allowed them the best life possible." "We did, Esme," Carlisle sighed. "I just think the best life for Edward would be medical school." I couldn't listen anymore. I was in danger of sobbing at any moment. As quietly and as quickly as possible, I made my way back up to our room. I closed the door and cried out. Carlisle was right. I couldn't let Edward pass up medical school. It would be too selfish of me. He had been at least considering it when I met him. Now, he refused to even discuss it with his father. After everything Edward had ever done for me, every kindness he'd ever shown me I had just been thinking of how I wanted him to have the best possible life I just hadn't realized it didn't include me. I looked around the room. This was going to be his room again. It was only temporarily ours. In the back of my mind, I had always known that possibility existed. I had always wondered just how long this amazing life with him would last. I loved him so much, it hurt. But, I couldn't let him throw away medical school for me. He deserved better. I wouldn't be the thing that held him back. I found my book bag and tore out a sheet of paper. I found a pen and sat down to decide how to say goodbye in a way he would understand. I was doing this for him loved him enough to walk away. Edward, Please know I will always love you. I never want to hurt you and I'm sorry if this does that in any way. Our futures lay down different roads and we can't reach them together like we once hoped. Please don't go back to being distant. You have to stay your same loving self for Alice and your parents and our friends. I'll always love you, Edward. You'll always be my best friend. I'll send Em over for the rest of my stuff to make it easier for you. Maybe one day, you'll be able to be my friend, too. You know the number if you want to talk. Love, Bella

I took the page and folded it in half. I took off the promise ring he had given me. I put the ring inside the paper and laid it on his dresser. I put my cell phone right on top. It wouldn't be right to keep it since I was still on his plan. I looked at the items on his dresser. I knew this was the first place he would go when he got home. He always took off his watch and laid it on the dresser as soon as he came into his room. I grabbed a bag and packed as many clothes as I could fit. I took my bag and backpack and made my way out of the house. I was lucky enough to not be seen by his parents. I didn't want them to feel bad for watching out for their son. I climbed into my truck and started it up. I pushed the engine as hard as it would go, trying to run away from the pain that was quickly clenching my heart. The very idea of Edward not being at my side made me feel like I was being ripped in two. The tears and sobs shook me as I made my way to the house I had grown up in. Emmett had never gotten around to selling it so it would thankfully be empty. As I pulled into the driveway, my truck made a loud groaning noise and died. I was pretty sure it was for the last time. I laughed ruefully then screamed angrily. I slammed my fists into the roof of the old truck. This was probably the single worst day of my life. Loosing my parents hadn't even hurt this much. I angrily wiped away my tears with the back of my hands. Then I yanked my bags and myself out of the truck. I slammed the door shut and kicked it hard with my foot. It hurt my foot more than the truck. I limped over to the house. I used the key under the eave and let myself in. I locked the door, stomped up the stairs and threw my bags into my room. Anger was much better than hurt. I slammed my door shut and locked it. I grabbed the first thing I could touch and threw it hard against the far wall. It ended up being a CD case. It shattered on impact, tossing little plastic shards everywhere. I screamed again. I kept it going until my throat started to hurt. I threw myself on my bed and cried into my pillow. I tried not to think, but every happy memory I'd shared with Edward over the past year and half went through my mind. At some point, I fell into a fitful sleep. The dream was wonderful and I knew it would hurt all the more when I woke up. In this dream, I was lying on my bed and crying in my sleep while Edward was banging on my door. He was begging me to let him in, telling me how much he loved me.

I knew this would never really happen. As soon as he read my letter and talked to his parents, he would know medical school was his true path. He would go onto medical school and become as accomplished as his father. He would probably even thank me someday, if he ever talked to me again. I smiled as I heard Edward's angry growl in my sleep. He sounded like a lion when he did that. "Bella! Damn it! Open this door or I'm kicking it in!" this dream version of him yelled. I chuckled in my sleep. Sure, Edward had muscles and he was quite strong, but he would never really kick in a door. That only happened in movies. I chuckled again as I heard the crash of the door as it flew open and slammed into the wall. I could just picture the doorknob sticking in the wall. This was a really funny dream. Humor was even better than anger or hurt. And then I realized how stupid it was to think that and I started sobbing in my dream all over again. I suddenly felt his arms around me. I didn't want this dream anymore. It was all wrong. I tried to tear myself away from it. It was too much ... too vivid ... and too wrong. Edward was not coming here. He was going to stay at his house and go over medical schools with is father. They'd probably sit together at the big oak desk in Carlisle's study. Esme would be standing there, proud of both of them. "Bella," he sighed, pressing his face against mine. I could feel him and smell his breath. I knew I had vivid dreams but this was ridiculous. My mind wouldn't even leave me in peace! "Bella, please wake up," my dream Edward said. I giggled. I couldn't help it. It was such an absurd dream. "I can't wake up right now." "Why not?" "You won't be here when I do." "Bella, I am here." "Nope. This is just a really crazy dream. Edward is at his house. He's probably going over medical school choices with his dad." "Bella." Even his chuckle was perfect in this dream.

How dare he laugh at me! Dream version or not! "Why are you laughing at me?" "Because, my only love, you aren't dreaming. You're delirious from getting yourself so upset. Please open your eyes and look at me." I made myself be completely still. I thought about his words. I thought about how my face felt wet from real tears. I thought about how the arms around me were snug and warm, and very real. I opened my puffy eyes and stared right into his sad, green ones. I looked around the room to the window. The sun had set and the moon was up. I must have been asleep for hours. I tried to sit up, but he refused to let me go. "Edward, what are you doing here?" "I came to get you and take you back home, where you belong." "No, Edward. I don't belong there. You do. You need to go to medical school. That's what you were supposed to do before I came along." "Bella, I appreciate what you are trying to do. That being said " His eyes darkened to reveal his anger. "I can't believe you would think you have the right to choose my path all by yourself! This is supposed to be our life, which means we both make equal choices and have equal responsibilities for our decisions." "But you would never choose the right path. You would choose the one that gave you time with me." "They're the same thing, Bella." "No, they're not, Edward." He moved me so I was sitting up and facing him. "Bella, stop thinking and listen to me!" His yelling made me pause. Edward never yelled at me. "Bella, you are the only future that matters to me. I don't care about what job I have when I finish school. I only care that at the end of the day, I am going home to you." He reached out and wiped my tears away as he smiled at me. His eyes were full of love as he stared into mine. "But your parents " I started. "What about my parents?" he asked as he kissed my cheek.

"Your dad sounds so upset about you not going to medical school," I mumbled. "How do you know that?" he asked, looking carefully at me. "I accidentally overheard him talking to your mom," I admitted. "I didn't mean to eavesdrop. I was getting ready to do our laundry and noticed they were home. I was going to say hello to them, but then I heard them fussing about you." "And that's what brought all this on?" he asked, his eyes growing dark with anger again. I could only nod my head. He pulled me into a tight hug and kissed the top of my head. "Bella, you are the only thing that matters to me. I don't care if my father isn't happy with my choices. I am happy with them. I thought you were happy with them, too." His voice was so full of sadness with that last sentence. My heart ached for putting him through this. I pulled back and looked into his face. "Edward, I have been happy. So happy I couldn't even believe it most days! Don't you see! That's why I feel so awful your dad is upset! Edward, I feel like I'm being extremely selfish to be so happy and to not think of your future. You've done so much for me. And if this is what I need to do for you, then it doesn't matter how much it hurts me." "Bella, this is our future for us to decide. And nothing that hurts you could ever be right for me. Your pain is my pain, just as your happiness is my happiness. Do you want to be with me?" "Of course! With everything in me, Edward!" "I want to be with you in the same way, Bella. I'm not settling by choosing to be a college instructor. I'm providing myself with a way to have normal hours to get home to you all the sooner." I wrapped my arms around him and pressed my face against his neck. I took a deep breath, filling my nose and lungs with his wonderful smell. This was the only place I ever cared to be. It didn't matter where we were in a house, a boat, or a box! As long as Edward was holding tightly to me, it didn't matter. I decided now would be a good time to tell him about the rest of my day. "About that whole instructor thing I talked to Mr. Jones today."

"Mr. Jones

head of the English department at my school?"

I nodded my head. "Mrs. Sims from my school set up a meeting with him for me. Mr. Jones has a position opening up right after graduation. He looked over my papers and grades and said he'll give me a shot at the job. I get a semester to prove myself and if he likes me, he'll offer me a contract for the job." Edward lifted my face up by my chin. His green eyes were sparkling with excitement and love. "Bella! That's the best news I've gotten all day!" "Are you sure this is what you want, Edward? Are you sure you want to live on teacher salaries? With me?" "Bella," he sighed. "How could I want anything else? You are the most beautiful woman, in mind, body, and spirit. And for some reason, you love me with your whole heart. How could you ever think this wouldn't be enough for me?" He looked away for a second, then turned his attention back to me, my favorite crooked smile on his face. His eyes were dancing with playfulness. I couldn't help but smile at him. "What are you thinking?" "Bella, do you trust me?" "From the moment I met you." He reached into his pocket and pulled out my ring. He put it back on my finger and kissed it. He smiled up at me. "Bella, let's get married. Right now! Tonight!" "Edward," I chuckled. "This is Seattle, not Vegas!" "Bella, come away with me. Let's fly out tonight. It'll only take a few hours to get there." He held me gently at my elbows. "Bella, I don't want to wait until we finish school. Please! Say you'll come away with me and be my wife." "We only have the one semester left. And everyone will be so upset if we leave them out." I was trying to keep him from making a choice we would regret. The thought of becoming his wife tonight filled me with butterflies and joy. There were no doubts or possible regrets on my end. "Don't you want to marry me, Bella?" he asked, his eyes sad again.

"Of course I want to marry you! It's all I've been thinking about for months now! Edward, I just don't want us to make a rash decision and then regret it." I put a hand against his cheek. "I would never regret becoming your wife, but you might regret not involving our family and friends." "We can have a party when we get back. They can be a part of that. Right now, I just want it to be you and me. Bella, will you marry me?" I smiled up at him. "Yes, Edward." He pulled me against him and kissed me with so much love and desire, it was staggering. I was stupid to ever think of walking away from this man. I would never try it again. He was right. All of our little and big choices were just that ours! We each had equal say-so. I needed to remember that. Edward released me from the kiss and took my hand tightly. He was so happy and in such a hurry I had to laugh at him as he pulled me from the bed, nearly causing me to tumble over. "Edward!" I giggled. "Please! You know I'm clumsy. We need to be careful on the stairs." He scooped up my legs and carried me bridal style down the stairs. He set me down in the living room and we stared at each other for a long moment. "Bella," he sighed as he ran his hand from my cheek to my neck. "Tonight you will be my wife." I nodded happily. He returned the smile as he took my hand and led me out to the Volvo. We made it to the airport quickly. Edward negotiated with the attendant and got us on a flight to Vegas that was leaving shortly. We had just enough time to make it through security and board the plane. We sat in first class, staring deeply into each other's eyes. I'm sure we wore matching goofy grins. We would be married tonight. He would be my husband for the rest of our lives. I would be his wife! "Isabella," he whispered against my lips.

I smiled. He was the only person who could call me that without me minding. I closed the distance and kissed my soon-to-be husband. "Do you remember Frank and Cecile from your job?" he asked. "The couple with the ship and horseshoes? They were so cute and old. You got sick that day." "I wasn't exactly sick," he admitted, looking shyly at me. "I was more spooked. Cecile said something to me. I was already worried I liked you too much, too soon. And then when she came over with her husband, she told me you were a special girl and I should marry you quick before someone else scooped you up. I didn't know what I was more afraid of my feelings for you or the idea that someone else would be with you." I smiled happily at him. "Even then you were falling for me, weren't you?" "Completely!" he agreed, cupping his hand against my neck. He slowly pulled me close and kissed me deeply. "When did you decide you wanted us to get married one day?" "I don't know if I should tell you." "Why not?" "I'm not sure how you'll take it." "Edward!" "During the Opera." "Why then?" "Well, I was already thinking about all the trips we could take and how they would all be great because of how you see the world so differently. And then, at the Opera, the way you saved all of your questions for intermission and after the play. It let me know just how much you cared for me. I knew I would never find anyone else who loved me the way you do. I was pretty sure no one could love you more than I could." "I've always felt just as deeply for you. And in just a few hours, I'll prove it to you by becoming Mrs. Edward Anthony Cullen."

He kissed the back of my hand. "Mrs. Isabella Cullen." "Bella Cullen!" I chuckled. "I really like the sound of that, Edward." "So do I, love." He pulled me in for another remarkable kiss. I was squealing on the inside! I was about to become Edward's wife! Emmett would kill us both for sneaking off, but I couldn't bring myself to care! Bella Cullen! That was soon to be me!

Chapter 63 - Vegas Bella was finally going to be my wife. I couldn't contain my excitement. I kept leaning over and kissing some part of her face or hand. Every mode of transportation we took seemed to be moving too slow the Volvo, the plane this taxi! Our taxi finally pulled up in front of the hotel. I paid for our ride and escorted Bella inside. There was a man in a very expensive looking suit behind the counter. "Welcome to Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino. How may I assist you?" "I would like to get a room for the night," I replied. "Just the one night?" the man asked. "Yes. We will be flying out in the morning," I explained. "Any particular requests for your room?" the man questioned. "A view of the bay would be nice," I replied. "Certainly. Let me just see what we have available." The man stared at his computer for a few moments. "We have one of our 750GR rooms available. I believe you will find it fits your needs perfectly. Here is your key card. Please be sure to return it when you check out tomorrow." "Thank you." I handed him my credit card. "No need to tell me the total." I nodded toward Bella and the man immediately understood. I'd learned over the last year and a half that as long as she didn't see or hear the total, she didn't bother arguing about the money I spent on her.

"If you'll just sign here and here, you can go up and enjoy your room," the man said, pointing at the areas. I signed his form and shook his hand. "Thank you for choosing to stay with us. Have a pleasant night." I wrapped an arm around Bella's waist and led her over to the elevators. We were quiet as we made our way up to the floor and into the room. Bella walked over to the large windows and looked out on the night. "Bella." I walked over to her and wrapped my arms around her, setting my chin on her shoulder. "What are you thinking?" "I was trying to decide if we should get married tonight or tomorrow morning. Which date sounds better to you?" "I really don't care as long as at the end of one of them, you are my wife." "Well, then let's just go tonight," she said. The excitement in her voice thrilled me. She really did want this as much as me. My phone started ringing. I pulled it out to see my sister's name flashing. "Alice." "You better answer it. She'll just keep calling if you don't." I flipped the phone open. "Hello." "Edward Anthony! Where the hell are you? Where is Bella? What happened? Mom is freaking out! She says she heard you yelling and then you took off out of the house without a word! She says she hasn't seen Bella all day and that she was supposed to be at home today," Alice yelled. "Bella is fine. We're away together." "What do you mean you're away together? Away where?" "Alice, we are fine. We'll be home tomorrow night." "What's going on, Edward?"

"Our parents were having another conversation about medical school and Bella overheard it." "Oh, no! Is Bella okay?" "She is now, after I retrieved her and put her ring back on her finger." "Ouch! Um Guess that explains why you didn't tell them where you were going."

"Considering they ran off the love of my life and made her feel selfish " I stopped talking, trying to reign in my temper. However misguided my father was, he was only doing what he thought was best for me. "You know I'm not going to say anything, so please tell me where you are." "Alice, I will tell you everything when we get home." "You're doing something very un-Edward of you, aren't you?" Alice asked. I didn't respond. "Okay. I can attempt to wait until you get home. Just to warn you, we'll all be at the house when you get back." "I expected as much." "Have Bella call Emmett. I love you both. Be safe and get home quickly." "We will. Night, Ali." I closed the phone and looked up at Bella. She was biting at her lip. I pulled her to me and hugged her tightly. "Everything is fine. Alice just wanted to make sure you and I were okay. She says you need to call Emmett." Bella sighed as she took my phone. She dialed Emmett's number as she sat on the edge of the bed. "Hi, Rose! Is Emmett around?" Bella looked up at me and gave me a small smile. "Hi, Em. No. Wait! Yeah. Well, if you would just let me talk! There was a misunderstanding and I went out for awhile. Edward came and found me and we talked things over, but it was late so we just decided to stay the night where we were. No, I promise, I'm fine. We'll be home tomorrow night. No, you don't need to break

anyone's face. It was a misunderstanding. Yes, I know you love me. Give Rose a hug and kiss her belly for me. Love you too, Em." "That didn't sound very nice." "He was convinced you had done something to hurt me. Esme called him in a panic saying she'd heard you screaming and that you'd run out of the house. She said our room looked like a tornado hit it." "That's your fault, love. You threw our laundry all over the floor." "I was on my way to do the laundry when I heard your parents talking." "And instead of waiting to speak with me, you ran away?" "I love you enough to walk away if that's what's best for you." I knelt down in front of her, taking her hands into mine. "Isabella, you will always be what's best for me. I love you and I could never have any kind of life if you weren't in it." "You really mean that?" I took her hand and put it over my heart. "With every beat of my heart and every fiber in my soul." She smiled at me and it was absolutely breathtaking. "Then let's go get married." I laughed as I hugged her tightly to me. "I love you, Bella." "I love you, Edward." "Let's find the phone book and see what chapel we would like to go to," I told her, standing up and pulling her with me. We found the book and a bunch of brochures with it. I went through the phone book while she checked the brochures. I couldn't sit still! I was too excited! Bella was finally going to be my wife and have my name. She handed a brochure to me. "This one looks nice, Edward."

I took the brochure from her and scanned it. The chapel was called Mon Bel Ami and offered a large variety of wedding packages, complete with pictures. "This does look nice. Do you want a dress?" "Not a wedding dress. I think we should dress up, but only as if we're going to a really nice restaurant." "I think I know just where to go. There are some shops here in the hotel. Let me make the reservation with the chapel and then we can go find the clothing." I pulled out my phone and dialed the chapel. Since it was in the middle of the week, they had several openings. I chose a time slot that would give us an hour and a half to get ready and get there. I hung up the phone and smiled at my beautiful Bella. "Let's go see what we can find to wear." "And you are sure you aren't going to regret not having our family and friends here?" she asked, studying my face closely. "Bella, I will be too busy screaming to the world that you are my wife to care about anything else." She smiled and nodded as she took my hand. We went across the hotel and over to the shops. I decided Bella should find her dress first and then I would find something to match it. We went through three stores before she found the dress she wanted. She even kept herself from looking at the price tag. I couldn't wait to see her in the dress. We went into the men's clothing store and found pants and a shirt for me fairly quickly. We headed back up to our room to change. Bella took the bathroom and I changed by the bed. I had found a nice pair of black slacks and a jacket to match. My shirt was an ivory button-up. Since I wasn't going to wear a tie I left a few buttons open at the top. I was just getting my shoes on when Bella stepped out of the bathroom. She was a vision; absolutely stunning. She had pulled her hair away from her face with the clip she had purchased. The dress she was wearing was ivory colored and strapless. A black strip of cloth ran just under her breasts and tied into a bow just before her side. The skirt was feminine and flowing, showing the slip underneath at the very bottom. She was breathtaking and all mine. I'd asked myself a million times how I'd gotten so lucky to be with an angel, and looking at this vision in white, I still didn't have an answer.

"You look beautiful, Bella, but more than that. I don't have a word to explain to you just how wonderful you look right now." "No need to flatter me, Edward. I've already agreed to marry you." I chuckled as I finished with my shoe. I walked over to her and kissed her cheek. "It's not flattery, love. It's the absolute truth." We gathered our things together and headed downstairs. I flagged a taxi for us and we made our way over to the chapel. The chapel was slightly tacky with all of the gold drapery and coloring everywhere, but I refused to let Bella marry me in a drive-thru or in front of Elvis. One of the staff members met us at the door. She was very tall with wavy blonde hair and pale blue eyes. "Welcome to Mon Bel Ami. Are you guests or a happy couple?" "Happy couple!" Bella answered with a large smile. My heart swelled at her happiness. "Very happy indeed," the woman chuckled. "I am Tanya and I thank you for choosing our chapel for your special day. Do you have a slot reserved?" "Yes. Under the name Cullen," I replied. Tanya checked her book. "Here you are. Edward and Isabella. Lovely names by the way. I see we have just enough time to go over the ceremony package you've chosen. Please step over here with me and I will explain everything." We followed Tanya through a door and into a little room with two sofas facing each other. Bella and I sat on one and Tanya sat across from us. Tanya smiled at us. "You two look just perfect together. I've seen many couples come in here and I have a knack for knowing the ones that will truly stay together. I think you two are definitely in that category. Now, onto the specifics! Eleazar is our ordained minister and he will perform the service. The marriage will be legally binding. His wife, Carmen, will handle the music. My sisters, Kate and Irina, will film and photograph the ceremony. You are not required to purchase anything. It's just a service provided as part of the package. You can decide for yourselves what you would like to purchase after the ceremony. Kate and Irina will also serve as your witnesses. If you'll hand me the rings, I will take them over to Eleazar." Bella turned to me with wide eyes. "Edward! We forgot about rings!"

I smiled at her and pulled a box out of my jacket. I opened the box and showed her the rings inside. She took the box from me, staring intently at our wedding bands. "But that's the exact one I was going to get you! How did you know?" I shrugged and smiled. "Alice." "How long have you had these?" Bella asked, her eyes moist. "Just a few months. I didn't want to take the chance of the design being retired before we set a date," I explained. Alice had actually dragged me out the very next day after Bella had pointed them out. "Oh, Edward!" she cried, hugging me tightly around the neck. "Yes," Tanya chuckled. "You two will certainly make it. May I have the rings now?" Bella laughed as she wiped at her eyes. She handed the box over and we stood to follow Tanya out. "Do you want processional music?" Tanya asked. "No, thank you. It's safer if Edward just walks with me. I'm not very steady in heels," Bella replied. Tanya smiled and nodded. We followed her into the chapel. An older gentleman with long white hair was standing at the altar. Tanya approached him and handed him the box with the rings. I watched them talking and smiling as I helped Bella down the aisle. I leaned over and kissed her cheek. "Ready?" "Very," she giggled. "Welcome, Edward and Isabella," the man said, smiling at us. "I am honored to be uniting the two of you in holy matrimony. As soon as Kate and Irina join us, we will start. Is that okay?" "Perfect," I replied, squeezing Bella's hand.

She looked up at me and smiled warmly. I could see her love for me in her deep, brown eyes. There was no fear, no regret, and no doubt. Her gaze was so intense, it made me feel weak, but I couldn't look away. "Ah! There you two are," Eleazar said suddenly. Bella and I turned around to see who Eleazar was talking to. One woman looked no taller than Alice, with light brown hair and the same pale blue eyes as Tanya. The other woman had shoulder length black hair and eyes that were so brown, they looked black. "The one with the video camera is Kate," Eleazar explained. That would be the short girl. "Our photographer is Irina." The tall one nodded at us. "Are you ready to begin?" Bella and I looked at each other and smiled. We turned to Eleazar and nodded our heads. "Perfect!" he laughed. "Let's get started then. We are gathered here in the Mon Bel Ami chapel to permanently unite two souls in holy matrimony. Marriage is founded in love, cemented by trust, and grows with compromise and understanding. It is not easy, but it has so many rewards for those willing to make the most of it. Edward Anthony Cullen, do you take Isabella Marie Swan to be your wife, now and forever?" "Wait!" Bella cried. I hoped the horror I felt inside didn't show too much on my face. If Bella was changing her mind, it was her right. I would deal with it. I didn't know how, but I would find some way. Bella squeezed my hand and smiled at me. She turned toward Eleazar. "Can we please just use Edward and Bella? We don't use our formal names." My heart finally started beating again and I let out a sigh of relief. The ways this woman affects me I shook my head slightly, trying to clear out the panic that had flooded my system. Bella squeezed my hand. I looked into her eyes and lost myself in them, forgetting everything but the knowledge that she loved me. "Of course," Eleazar chuckled. "Let's try that again. Edward, do you take Bella to be your wife, now and forever?" "I do," I replied, smiling brightly at Bella. It was maddening to keep myself from leaning down and kissing her.

"Bella," Eleazar said, calling her attention to him. "Do you take Edward to be your husband, now and forever?" "I do," Bella said, smiling brighter than any sun or star ever had. Eleazar took out our rings and placed them on the book he was holding. "These rings are a symbol of your commitment to each other and to your marriage. May you be blessed with love, happiness and family for all the days of your life together. Edward, will you take Bella's ring?" I took the ring from the book and held it at the tip of Bella's finger. "Edward, slide the ring onto Bella's finger and say 'With this ring, I thee wed'." I held Bella's gaze and started sliding the ring down her finger. "With this ring, I thee wed." I lifted her hand and kissed her ring. "I love you, Bella." She blushed and lowered her face and hand slowly. "Bella, it's your turn. Take Edward's ring and as you put it on, repeat those same words," Eleazar instructed. Bella's hand was shaking as she took my ring from the book. When she grabbed the side of my hand, the shake left hers completely. She slid the ring on, keeping her eyes on mine. "With this ring, I thee wed." She kissed my ring and smiled up at me as she said, "I love you, Edward." "With the power vested in me, by the state of Nevada, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Edward, kiss your bride," Eleazar stated. I wrapped my arms around Bella and kissed her with as much passion as I could get away with in front of witnesses. When I let Bella go, her face and neck were bright red and her smile was glorious. We made our way to the front of the building. Kate and Irina took us into a little office and showed us the video and pictures. Bella decided we should get a copy of the video for the family. The only pictures she wanted were of us kissing each other's rings and our first kiss as husband and wife. We made it back to the hotel about an hour later. Bella and I had both been smiling like idiots all the way back. We kept getting stopped so people could congratulate us.

I closed the door to our room and turned to see Bella taking off her shoes. Once they were off, she ran to me and jumped into my arms. I spun her around once as she laughed. "Edward, we're married!" she cried, holding tightly to my neck. "You are Bella Cullen, now and forever," I said, leaning my forehead against hers. "Edward, I love you so much. I still can't believe any of this is real, but I promise to never take it for granted." "You are my love, my life, my wife," I whispered, brushing my lips against hers. Bella lifted our hands and stared at our wedding bands. They matched. My band was thick with a single diamond in the middle. Hers was styled the same, but she had two small emeralds on each side of her diamond. "You know how much I love my promise ring, but I have to say, this wedding band is amazing. So much so, I don't even want to know how much money you spent to get this made." "Once Alice showed me the band you had picked out for me, I knew I wanted yours to match." I started at the outside of the band. "Each of these emeralds represents something I love about you. This first is your mind, the second is your spirit, the third is your smile, and the final is your heart and soul." "That's two," Bella giggled. "Yes, but they are so intertwined that I felt one would do." "I love you, Husband." "I love you, Wife!" "I think now would be an excellent time for you to show me just how much you love me, Mr. Cullen," she said, wrapping her arms around my neck. "I couldn't agree more, Mrs. Cullen," I replied. I wrapped my arms around her back and leaned down to kiss my wife.

My wife! Mrs. Cullen! Bella Cullen! Those words just kept ringing through my head as I held and kissed her. My wife! I'd never known this kind of love and joy could exist. And now that I had it, I would protect it with everything in me.

Chapter 64 - Telling the Family Edward parked the Volvo in the driveway. We stared at Emmett's Jeep and Alice's Porsche for a moment. We looked at each other and started laughing. "It's going to be a long night!" I laughed. "It appears so," he chuckled. "Are you ready, Mrs. Cullen?" The sound of my new name caused a giant grin to break across my face, once again making my cheeks hurt. "Absolutely, Mr. Cullen!" I leaned over and quickly kissed Edward. We got out of the car and he took my hand as we walked up the steps and entered the house. Everyone was in the living room. Emmett, Jasper and Carlisle were watching TV while the ladies were talking quietly. When Emmett looked up and saw us, he turned off the TV. "Hi," I said, giving them all a small wave. "So which one of you wants to explain?" Alice asked, putting her hands on her hips. I looked up at Edward and he was still smiling as goofily as he had been last night when we left the chapel. Not that I had room to talk! I could feel the same grin on my face. He kissed my forehead and pulled me further into the house. "Bella and I have a little something we'd like to tell you all." He kissed my hand before holding our wedding bands out toward our family. "We're married." Alice squealed and attacked us, knocking us back a few steps. "OH MY GOD! I'm so happy for you!" She pulled away and started slapping Edward's arms and chest. "You big, dumb dolt! You didn't even let me be there for it or plan it! What's wrong with you, Edward Anthony?" I quickly grabbed Alice into an awkward hug, keeping her from hitting Edward any further. "Relax, Alice. It was very spontaneous."

Alice nodded and I let her go. "I'll say," Rose said as she came over and hugged me. "What brought this on?" "I couldn't wait any longer for Bella to be my wife," Edward replied, pulling me back into his arms. "We just wanted to make it official. Please understand, we love you all very much, but we wanted a very small and simple ceremony." He turned toward his sister. "Alice, I was hoping you could whip together an announcement party for us in the next couple of weeks." Alice hugged us both again. "I would love to! I can't wait! I already have a million ideas for it, too! And since you two snuck off without me, you both have to keep quiet and enjoy the party I put together for you." "We wouldn't dream of interrupting your fun," he replied, smiling at her. "Emmett?" I called. My big brother was just staring at us. "Are you going to say something?" I asked. Emmett slowly stood up and walked over to Edward and me. He pulled us into a tight hug. "I'm disappointed I wasn't there, but I'm happy you're happy, Squirt. I love you guys. As long as this is really what you want, then I'm okay with it." I started crying as I hugged him back. "Thank you, Emmett. If I had wanted a big wedding, I would have had you give me away. But you know how I hate attention." "I know, Squirt." Emmett released us and kissed my cheek. "I'm glad you're happy, Bella." "Thank you, Emmett," I said, wiping away my tears. Jasper came over and hugged us next. He just nodded at Edward and kissed my cheek. He could tell we were very happy and we could tell he was happy for us. We didn't seem to need words. "Edward, Bella," Esme said softly. "Can we speak with you upstairs?" We followed his parents into Carlisle's study. Edward and I sat on the small couch in the room. Carlisle sat at his desk and Esme stood next to him.

"Why did you run off and get married like that?" Esme asked. She was obviously upset about not being there to see us get married. "Edward, you know how much we were all looking forward to planning a wedding after graduation." "Bella has never wanted a big wedding and I only want to make her happy. But as for why we did this now " Edward looked down at me and smiled. He pulled me against his side. "I needed some way to show Bella and everyone else that she is and will always be the most important thing in my life." "Edward, we know that," Esme said, moving over and sitting next to us. "We see it everyday in the way you two look at each other." He shook his head slowly. "If that were true, then the discussions about medical school would have ended long ago." Esme clutched her throat and turned to stare at Carlisle for a moment. He frowned deeply. Esme turned back to us and looked at me closely. "You heard, didn't you?" I dropped my eyes and nodded my head. The tears came and started falling silently from my eyes. "I was on my way downstairs and I heard you talking. I wanted to say 'hi' to you both, but then I heard what you were saying." "Bella thought she was being selfish so she tried to leave me," Edward explained, holding me even tighter. "She had packed her clothing and left me a note with her ring and phone." "That explains the scream," Esme mused. She took my hand and lifted my face. "Bella, I am sorry for what you heard. I promise you that no one thinks you're selfish. We love you, Bella." She turned and looked at her husband. "Carlisle." "Bella, I am sorry you heard anything that would make you think you're selfish. You are so far from it. I am the one who has been selfish. I was so wrapped up in what I thought Edward should be doing with his life that I didn't notice what Edward wanted to do with his life. As my wife pointed out to me during that conversation, we only get this one shot at living. It should be filled with the things that make us feel complete and happy. You are those things for Edward, just as his music is." Carlisle stood up and walked over to us. He motioned for us to stand. He hugged us both tightly. "Allow me to officially welcome you to our family, Mrs. Cullen," Carlisle said as he kissed my cheek.

"Thank you," I sniffled. "Edward, take Bella upstairs so she can clean up a bit before you two come down and answer more questions," Esme said. Edward nodded and led me up to our room. I laughed when he opened the door and revealed the mess behind it. "We are going to have a busy day tomorrow cleaning all of this up." "It would appear so," he chuckled as he led me past the mess and into our bathroom. He wet a washcloth and wiped down my face and neck for me. "They took it much better than I thought they would," I said. "They knew the day would come, just not when. I told you long ago I would make you my wife." "And you kept your word, Mr. Cullen." "How could I not, Mrs. Cullen? You are everything my heart desires and more." I wrapped my arms around Edward's neck and rested my head on his shoulder. "I am so happy to be your wife, Edward. I love you." "I love you, Bella." He held me for a long while, both of us just enjoying the fact that we were together and married. "I think we need to go back down, love." "Probably," I sighed. He kissed my forehead and wrapped an arm around my waist. We went down to the living room and sat on the floor together so we could face everyone. "Who has the first question?" I joked. "Me!" Alice sang, bouncing around on the sofa. "Where did you go?" "Vegas," I giggled. "How totally Bella of you!" Alice smirked. "Did Angela teach you that?" I laughed.

"She certainly did," Alice chuckled. "You took my baby sister to Vegas to marry her!" Emmett groaned. "Come on, Eddie! You're supposed to be the romantic one! At least tell me you were smart enough not to let Elvis marry you!" "Of course Elvis married us!" I said, pretending to be shocked. "And our Elvis was the pre-fat one. I think he may have liked guys, though, because he told Edward he was a 'hunka, hunka burnin' love." Everyone stared at us while Edward laughed quietly in my hair. "And during the ceremony, he would swing his hips around to whomever he was talking to! It was hilarious! We have video of it, too! Want to see it?" I waggled my eyebrows at Emmett. "Isabella, you are evil," Edward chuckled against my ear. "A video " Esme managed " sounds lovely, dear. Edward, why don't you put it on for us?" He moved me off of him and ran out to the car to get the DVD. I just sat there and smiled innocently at our family. They were in for a big surprise. Edward came back in and put the DVD into the player. He moved us over to lean against the side of the sofa. The video started off with Edward and me talking to Eleazar. "Elvis will be out in just a second," I said, trying to be serious. Emmett was on the edge of the sofa waiting for Elvis to pop out. When Eleazar started his little welcoming speech, Emmett leaned over and punched me in the shoulder. "You suck, Bella." "Oh, thank God!" Esme sighed. "Bella, you are too wicked," Alice giggled. "We should know better than to believe her by now," Rose added. "But we keep getting pulled in." "She's very convincing when she's confident," Jasper announced. "Maybe it's best she didn't have a full audience," Carlisle chuckled.

When the part came up where I had stopped the ceremony, the entire room started laughing. "Look at his face!" Alice cried. "I didn't even scare him that much!" Emmett laughed. "He's panicking!" Jasper laughing. "Poor Eddie!" Rose chuckled. "I've never seen you so flustered, son," Carlisle said, trying not to laugh out right. Esme was giggling behind her hand, refusing to comment at all. Edward held me tightly and whispered into my ear. "Look at how beautiful you are, love. You look radiant. No matter what you're wearing or what time of day it is, that is how you always look to me." "You need to stop telling me things like that, Edward," I whispered, smiling at him. "Why is that?" "Because I don't think they'll be too happy if I attack you right here in the living room." "I won't mind." "That much I knew myself, Tutor-boy!" "It was a beautiful ceremony," Esme said, as she wiped at her eyes. "I wish you would have waited for us to be there, Squirt, but you looked beautiful and I'm glad you're happy," Emmett told me. "I knew he was up to something. I told him I was sure it was very un-Edward of him," Alice said, shaking her head. "Bella makes me forget all reason," Edward chuckled, hugging me tightly. "I think he's got it the other way around," I laughed.

"Your announcement party is going to be spectacular," Alice chirped, bouncing around on the sofa. "Rose and I are going to make it the event of the year!" "I can't wait to tell the girls in the Garden Club," Esme said, moving closer to Alice and Rose. "Before they try to drag me into the circle of evil, can you whisk me away upstairs, Husband?" I whispered. "Anything for you, Wife." Edward stood and pulled me up with him. "We're going to head up to bed now." "Do not forget about tomorrow morning's breakfast," Alice warned, as we moved toward the stairs. "Edward," Emmett called. We turned to look at my brother. "I'm glad you married her, but if you make me an uncle, I'll kill you." "Emmett!" I yelled. Edward and Emmett just laughed together. I looked between the two of them. Edward kissed my forehead and started pulling me up the stairs. "How could you find that funny?" I asked him. "Because it's not the first time he's told me that," he chuckled. "When was the first time?" "Do you remember the second night you had your cast? When you made that casserole?" "Yes." "He told me that night!" "That big ugh! I can't believe he actually told you that! We weren't even doing anything back then!" He shrugged. "He loves you, Bella. He wants what's best for you."

"I understand that," I said, as he closed the door to our room. "But he should understand I know better than to get pregnant at this point in my life! I'm only twentyone and a half! I have one more semester of college left!" "Calm yourself, Bella," he soothed, hugging me and stroking my hair. "What's going on? You never get this upset with Emmett." I let out a big breath and started to hug him back. "I think it's all just catching up onto me ... all the stress from yesterday, my dead truck, and the excitement from last night." "Last night was pretty amazing. And that was just getting to marry you. I don't have a word for what went on after," he chuckled, kissing my neck. "It must not have been that great if you don't have a word for it." Edward laughed darkly. "Why don't we repeat it and see if we can find a word together?" "Why, Mr. Cullen, I do believe you are trying to seduce me!" "Mrs. Cullen, it was you who bewitched me from the moment we met." "Laying it on a little thick, aren't we?" "How so?" he asked, staring into my eyes and rubbing my cheeks with his thumbs. "I got the impression I annoyed you that first night." "You did, a little. But even that counts. The fact that you could annoy me proves I was under your spell right away." "And to think it all came from you deciding to go to dinner to see if I would bite." "I will always be grateful to Alice for making me go." "Me too." "But enough talk, Mrs. Cullen. The only sounds I care to hear from this point forward are the ones that let me know you are enjoying the slow torture I am about to perform on your heavenly body."

"Jeez, Edward! Are you trying to make me faint before you even touch me?" He laughed and picked me up. He tossed me on our bed and went over to the stereo. He put on one of the rock CDs and set it to repeat. "Just how long do you plan on torturing me tonight? I saw you hit that repeat button." "As long as it takes," he replied as he crawled over me. "As long as what takes?" He ran his nose along my jaw and kissed my chin. "For you to let go and forget anyone else exists in this world except the two of us." It was going to be a long night with my wonderful husband happier! and I couldn't have been

Chapter 65 - EMMETT'S POV: "Where's the Squirt?" I asked Rose, as I plopped down next to her on the sofa. "She went up to bed. I think she tired herself out with that fit she threw over that math test she's taking tomorrow," Rose told me. "I should go wish her luck," I sighed, getting up from the sofa once again. "I'm sure she knows," Rose said, grabbing my arm. "Yeah, you don't want to disturb her," Alice interjected. "She's probably asleep by now! She always passes out once Edward hums that lullaby to her." "Besides, if you go up there now, you'll probably let something slip about the pregnancy and I'll be very angry with you," Rose warned. "I won't mention a thing! You said you wanted to wait until you were further along and I agreed," I reassured her. "Emmett, let's race," Jasper offered.

As much as I wanted to beat the snot out of him, I also wanted to wish my little sister luck. I hadn't really had much time with her since my wedding and everything. It sucked to only see her once or twice a week. "I always wish her luck before big exams. I'll be right back." I kissed my Rosie's forehead and headed up the stairs. I thought I heard one of them whispering something about 'dead meat', but I must have misheard. I whistled as I made my way up the stairs, taking them two at a time. I heard music coming from the room and was happy to know she was still up. I knocked on the door, anxious to wish Bella luck. I knew she'd be happy that I hadn't forgotten. I knocked again, getting a little impatient. But then I thought she might have fallen asleep with the music on. I knew Edward had done it enough times. I pressed my ear to the door, listening for any sign of them talking. ROSALIE'S POV: "Edward is Dead Meat," Jasper snickered. "Alice! OH. MY. GOD! Alice, he's so going to find out!" I cried. "What are we going to do?" "It had to happen someday. I still can't believe he's never caught on," Alice said, shaking her head. "He's like an ostrich with its head in the sand." "Should we call Edward's phone to warn him?" Jasper asked. "No," Alice replied. "It's time for this little secret to come out in the open. They've been together for over a year now." "Emmett's going to freak!" I said, rubbing my stomach. Alice sat next to me, rubbing my stomach too. "Not as much as he will when this little one goes out on her first date." "Alice, please don't say that out loud! You know how much it freaks Emmett out. And he wants a little boy so bad. I had to yell at him to keep him from buying a bunch of baby footballs and soccer balls the other day," I explained. "My baby sister," said a small voice.

We all looked up to see Emmett slowly making his way down the stairs. He sat on the bottom step, holding his head in his big hands. I went over to him and rubbed his back. "What's wrong, Emmie?" BELLA'S POV: "Edward," I sighed, loving the way his hands were kneading into my aching back muscles. "Does this feel nice?" he chuckled. "Everything you do feels nice," I muttered. He moved his hands and massaged my shoulders, digging his thumbs into the space below my neck. "Oh, Edward!" I moaned, feeling the tension float away from his magic touch. He chuckled again. "Would you like me to stop?" "Do it and die, Tutor-boy," I grunted. His hands traveled down the middle of my spine, rubbing and massaging all the way. "God, how are you so good at this?" I asked. "Did you take a class or something?" "No, it was all in that book I told you about." EMMETT'S POV: "My baby sister," I said, practically falling on the bottom step. "What's wrong, Emmie?" Rose asked, rubbing my back. "I just I never thought " I muttered.

"What's going on?" Alice asked in that damn chirpy voice of hers. This was her fault! "What's wrong?" I roared. "What's wrong? Your damn brother has corrupted my little sister! That's what's wrong!"

"Emmett, what happened upstairs?" Jasper asked. He was all calm, like he is almost all of the time. I bet he wouldn't be so calm if oh! He probably had gone through that Rosie is his sister. I told them my disturbing story. "I went upstairs to wish Bella luck. I heard the stereo on, so I figured she was awake. I knocked and she didn't hear me, so I knocked again. She still didn't hear me so I put my ear to the door, trying to see if she was really still awake. And that's when I heard it." "Heard what?" Rose asked. "Them," I replied. "You're going to have to be a little more forth-coming for us to help," Jasper said. "I really do not want to say this right now," I groaned. "Pretend you're talking about a fictional character. Let's call her Beth," Alice offered. "Fine," I sighed. "Beth was moaning Edwin's name. She was telling him how good he is and asking him how he learned it. He was telling her about his book." My irrational anger pulsed through me once again. "And if I find out any of you bought him that damn Kama Sutra book, I'll rip your arms off!" "And what if he borrowed your copy?" Alice chuckled. EDWARD'S POV: "Is that the Bella Swan handbook you told me about in New York?" Bella laughed. "The one and only," I chuckled. "Have I done a good job?" I asked, climbing off of her. "Is all the tension gone from your back and shoulders?" "Yes, honey," she replied, smiling wide. I leaned down and kissed the corner of her mouth. "Anything else I can do for you before bed?" "Could you please, please go and get me something to drink?" "What would you like?" I asked, moving her hair away from her delicate face.

"Could you make me some of that tea I like?" "Warm?" "Yes, please. It helps me get sleepy. Not that I need help once you start humming my super secret composition. But I would like all the help I can get." "You shouldn't be so nervous about your math test tomorrow. You aced all of your homework on the first try this evening." "I can't help it." "Alright," I said, kissing her forehead. "You stay right here and I'll be back with your tea." I was walking out the door when she called me back. "Edward! Tell Em I said goodnight. He was in the bathroom earlier." "Okay. I'll be right back. I love you." "Love you, too!" I chuckled, loving how her voice sounded when she was relaxed and drowsy. I doubted she would drink much of the tea, but Bella wanted it. As I got to the last landing, I saw Emmett sitting on the bottom step, surrounded by our family. I heard Alice ask, "And what if he borrowed your copy?" The way she was laughing worried me. "What's going on?" I asked. Rose, Alice and Jasper snickered as they backed away from Emmett. I saw the tendons straining in Emmett's neck and arms as he stood up and turned to face me. "Edward," he said, his tone gruff. "Bella said to say goodnight to you for her," I blurted out. I was suddenly afraid of Emmett and I didn't understand why. Emmett grunted, staring hard at me.

"Um

I'm just heading to the kitchen to make her some tea to relax her," I said.

Emmett grunted again. "Yeah, I guess she would need to calm down after that." "You know how Bella gets all worked up," I said, thinking he was talking about Bella's earlier episode. She'd gotten herself really worked up about her math exam in front of everyone. I scooted past Emmett and headed into the kitchen. EMMETT'S POV: I was having trouble forming actual words. I kept grunting. But then I found my voice. "Yeah, I guess she would need to calm down after that." "You know how Bella gets all worked up," Edward said. Did he really? But he Did he not? Did the man have no shame or decency? He just admitted he'd been upstairs doing things with my sister! And he walks right past me, like it's nothing! I was going to kill him! I turned to follow him into the kitchen, but Rose stepped in my way. "Stop right there, Emmett Swan. The things that happen in the privacy of Bella's bedroom are not your business. They have never been your business." Her word choice struck a chord with me. "How long has this been going on? Am I the last to know? Was anyone ever going to tell me?" I asked. "Why didn't you say something, Rosie?" "Because I knew you would overreact. Just like you're doing right now," Rose replied. "But she's my little sister," I sputtered. "In family hierarchy only," Alice pointed out. "She's twenty-one, Emmett. She's not a baby or a little girl. She's a young woman and she's very much in love with Edward. Did you really think she wouldn't want to be physical with him?" Rose questioned. "I thought she was a late bloomer," I muttered. "I thought it wouldn't enter her mind until after they were married." "Emmett!" Alice laughed. "They have nearly a year before they graduate and can even set a date for the wedding! How could you expect them to wait like that?"

"Emmett, we've all had to make the choice between waiting for marriage or doing what we felt was right in our hearts," Jasper stated. "None of us have waited because we all know we are going to end up married. You and Rose are just the first to officially do it. Bella's happy, Emmett. At the end of the day, isn't that all that should matter." "Do I even want to know how long this has been going on?" I sighed in defeat. "No," Rose and Alice said together. "Okay, then," I said, shaking my head. Edward came out of the kitchen, giving us all a questioning look. He walked past us, holding a steaming cup in his hands. I let him walk up to the first landing then called for him. "Edward." He turned and looked at me. "Yes, Emmett?" "I know what's going on with Bella and you. I'm not going to overreact or anything. Just be careful, would you?" He looked confused, but he nodded his head. "Sure, Emmett." BELLA'S POV: I sat up in the bed, pulling Edward's t-shirt back on. I was still enjoying the euphoria of Edward's massage. The man was truly a miracle worker when it came to getting rid of my tension and worries. That math test didn't seem so big anymore. The door opened and Edward came in, holding my tea and looking very confused. "Is everything okay, honey?" I asked, taking the cup from him. He sat next to me on the bed, slowly shaking his head. "Emmett just gave me permission for something, but I don't know what it is." "What?" I laughed. "I don't know," he chuckled. "I was on my way up and he said something about knowing what was going on with us and that he wasn't going to overreact and that I should be careful."

I took a sip of my tea, thinking about what Emmett had said to Edward. I thought about dinner with everyone and then my little fit over my test. I couldn't see anything that had happened that would cause Emmett to say such a cryptic thing. Edward started rubbing my neck with his thumb and index finger, causing me to moan slightly. Realization slammed into me, nearly making me drop my cup. Edward must have noticed because his free hand was holding the cup for me. "What's wrong, Bella?" I turned to him, wondering exactly what my face looked like. The panic in Edward's eyes told me it wasn't good. "He misunderstood," I croaked. "What?" "Emmett. He must have come up here earlier. He thinks what he heard was us making love! He doesn't know it was just a massage, Edward!" Edward stared at me for a second then started roaring with laughter. I stared at him for a second, wondering how he could find this funny. And then I realized why it was we'd been so careful around Emmett for over a year now and the one time we weren't doing anything was when he figured it out! I started laughing right along with Edward. By the time we calmed down, we'd both had quite a few tears to wipe up. Edward was still lightly snickering as he helped me under the covers. He turned out the lights and then joined me in the bed. I snuggled close to him, letting him wrap me up in his arms. He started to hum my lullaby and I immediately began to fall asleep. My last thought for the night was of how glad I was that I wouldn't ever need to have the talk with Emmett. He'd found out on his own, even if he'd done it by accident and misunderstanding. Sometimes, accidents were a wonderful thing.

Chapter 66 - Bonus Chapter Wedding Night (Edward's POV) "I love you, Husband." "I love you, Wife!"

"I think now would be an excellent time for you to show me just how much you love me, Mr. Cullen," Bella said, wrapping her arms around my neck. "I couldn't agree more, Mrs. Cullen," I replied. I wrapped my arms around her back and leaned down to kiss my wife. It started out sweet and tender, but Bella twisted my shirt into her hands and pulled me closer, deepening the kiss. I smiled against her lips and felt her do the same. "Edward." That one little word caused every inch of me to spark, drowning me in my desire to have every inch of the goddess in my arms. And I doubted she had any idea of just how she affected me. I moved my lips across her jaw, down her neck, and to her bare shoulder. I kissed out to her arm and back toward her neck, earning small moans from my lovely wife. I sucked at the skin of her neck, smiling devilishly. She was my wife now I sucked harder and she gasped. She knew what I was doing, but she didn't stop me. It aroused me even more. I let her skin go and gently licked over the spot. It was already starting to change color. "Edward," she chuckled softly. I lifted my head and find myself lost in those fathomless, brown eyes of hers. "You really shouldn't have done that," she said, her voice low and seductive. She suddenly pushed me and I fell onto the bed, surprised by her actions. She sat straddling my waist, grinning wickedly. She bent her head and started kissing my neck as she worked to undo the buttons of my shirt. She pushed aside the cloth and attacked my neck with her lips. She did to me the exact thing I had just done to her, marking me as her own. She giggled against my neck. "I don't think Emmett's going to be able to pretend you and I are innocent anymore." "I don't care," I growled, flipping us so that she was beneath me. "Put a ring on my finger and you're suddenly over your fear of my brother?" she giggled.

I placed butterfly kisses all across her soft, silky smooth face. "I love you." "I love you, too. But you need to stop kissing me and get up." "Why?" I groaned, trying to distract her by nibbling on her ear. "Edward." Her tone was final. "I'm listening," I sighed. I moved and rested on my side. "Thank you," she said, giving me a quick kiss on my cheek. "I need a moment. I'll be back. In the meantime, why don't you warm up the bed for me?" I grinned at her, running my fingertips across her collarbone. "Why don't you help me?" "I will, but later." She jumped up and went into the bathroom, closing the door. I groaned, but forced myself to move. I removed my jacket and shirt, putting them back on their hangers. I got my pants open and sighed. Bella was just to damn enticing some days, but I wouldn't have her any other way. I hung the pants as well, then went back over to the bed. I pulled down the blankets and sheet and crawled beneath, letting her side of the bed warm up. I shook my head, thinking of all the cold nights she'd begged me to do this for her and all of the times she'd pressed her cold, little feet against my calf muscles, making me jump. There was a half moon in the sky, illuminating the room enough so lights weren't required. I thought of the first time I'd taken Bella to see the moon from the hill near our home. The way the light had reflected from her pale skin "Bel-la," I groaned. Her laughter was her only reply. "Patience is a virtue, Edward." "I lost my virtue to you a long time ago, Bella," I replied. She laughed again. Oh, how I loved that sound! I stared at the bathroom door, willing her to come out and join me. As if she'd heard my silent plea, there was no longer any light spilling from the beneath the bathroom

door. She opened the door and stood there, leaning against the frame. My breath rushed out of me as if I'd just been hit in the stomach. Bella was dressed okay, maybe dressed wouldn't be the proper word Bella was scantily clad in a deep blue negligee. It had tiny straps on her shoulders and barely reached the middle of her thighs. Her hair was down, draped over one shoulder. She had a playful smile on her lips as she watched my reaction. "Ready to lose that virtue again, Mr. Cullen?" she asked. Her lips twitched as she tried not to laugh. I tried to speak, but the only sound I managed was a deep groan. She seemed satisfied with that as she slowly made her way over to me. She put her hands on the bed, bending down low, making it impossible for me to look anywhere other than right at her chest. She crawled across the bed and gave me a chaste kiss on the lips. She pulled back and sat there, smirking at me. "Do you like your wedding gift, Mr. Cullen?" she whispered. "Do I Oh, Bella," I sighed, pulling her into my arms. "You are beyond words."

"It's always so amazing to leave you speechless," she chuckled. She pulled away and I pouted my lip out at her. She laughed and kissed it quickly. "It's chilly in here, Edward. And you did warm up the bed for me." I sighed, but smiled at her. I moved over and let her have the warm side of the bed. I laughed as she snuggled under the blanket and sighed happily. I scooted close to her, wrapping her in my arms. I started kissing her neck again. "I think I know of a way to warm you up, Mrs. Cullen." "You don't sound very sure of yourself," she giggled. I growled at her, getting her to laugh again. I smiled, amazed at my luck. This beautiful, loving, amazing woman was my wife! Bella pressed her hand to my cheek and looked longingly at me. "I love you, Edward. I'm sorry for earlier. I'm I don't know why I reacted so badly. But it Sometimes, especially when everything is going so perfectly right, I get so scared."

"I know," I whispered, taking her hand and kissing the palm. "We've had a lot of talks about you feeling that way." "I just I guess I thought it should be easier by now, to not get scared and to not worry about losing you. But it only seems to get worse because the more I love you, the less I can stand the idea of not having you. I guess it made more sense to leave you on my terms than for you to leave any other way." "Once again, as amazing as your powers of observation are, you've completely missed something very important." "What?" she asked, confusion and curiosity evident in those deep, brown eyes of hers. "I will never leave you. I'm much too selfish and you are too vital to my existence." I lifted her hand and kissed her wedding band. "Maybe now that you are my wife, you'll find it a little easier to believe that." "I can only promise to try," she said, smiling. "And I promise to keep reminding you, my love." I leaned down and gave her a soft, tender kiss on her beautiful lips. She wiggled in my arms, pressing her hips against mine. I groaned, my arousal for her returning full force. I deepened her kiss, begging her to open her mouth for me. She parted her lips as she moved her hands into my hair, pulling me face tighter against her. Our tongues clashed, both of us wanting control of the kiss. I relented to her and she took immediate control, pushing my tongue back into my mouth. I moaned from the extreme pleasure this woman, my wife, was giving to me. I pulled away, needing air, as I'm sure she did. I kissed up and down her neck, licking at the purple spot I'd left earlier. She moaned loudly and pressed herself against me once again. I reached down and pulled the negligee off roughly. She was completely naked now. The moonlight glancing off of her skin made her glow. My eyes traveled down her body and then back up again. She was watching me closely, as she always did. She still didn't understand just how breathtakingly beautiful she really was. I pressed my lips to hers, thrusting my tongue into her mouth, giving a preview of what was to come. I ran my hands up and down her silky skin, wanting to memorize every single curve of her sumptuous body. She was everything I could have ever dreamed of if I'd known what I wanted. She was my other half and I would always be incomplete without her.

"Edward," she said, somewhere between a moan and a sigh. "Yes, my love?" I whispered into her ear. She shivered as my breath touched her face. "I love you." "I know. I love you, too." She grabbed my face in her hands, pulling me up to look at her. "So show me already." I stopped breathing for a second, trying to reconcile my eyes and my brain. The love and lust in her eyes was her own, not mine being reflected back by those brown pools. We worked together to get rid of the only clothing standing between us. Our lips crashed together at the same time I entered her. Her nails dug into my backside just enough to hurt, but not enough to break the skin. I thought about stopping to ask if she was okay, but her moan of pleasure erased my worries. She met my every thrust, sharing in my desire, passion and urgency. She wrapped her legs around me, pulling me in deeper. I wasn't going to last much longer and I doubted she would either. I pulled away from her lips, both of us panting and sweating from our exertions. I rested my head against the side of her neck and she ran her hands through my hair. Suddenly, her grip tightened, threatening to rip my hair out. Her back arched and she screamed my name. Her body pulsing around mine pushed me into my own release. I collapsed, holding her tightly to me, refusing to let her move a single inch. "Wow," she whispered. "You must be really happy I'm your wife now," she giggled. I smiled, knowing she was being silly to mask her other emotions. I kissed her ear and whispered to her. "Tell me how you really feel, Isabella. It's okay. You know I'll understand." "I don't know where to start." "The beginning is usually a good spot." She giggled, hugging my neck tighter. "I love you." "I love you, too, wife."

"I'm happy. I'm actually ecstatic. I think if I was standing right now, I'd be bouncing around like Alice. I'm feeling a little guilty that I got the wedding I really wanted, knowing how disappointed everyone else will be that they weren't with us. What about you? How are you feeling?" "Content. I have the one thing I wanted in this life right here in my arms, wearing my ring, having my last name. And she loves me more than I'll ever deserve." I kissed her, stopping the arguments that invariably followed after I told her my feelings about her. We'd never come to agreement on the way we saw each other and I doubted we ever would. I figured it was just a side-effect of the depth of our love. I took my time, fulfilling my earlier wish and tasting every inch of her. I started with her slightly swollen lips. I moved down her neck, once against smiling at the mark I'd left. I worked my way down both of her arms and to her fingertips. Her chest and stomach came next while her gasps and moans filled the otherwise silent night. I'd had plans to continue, but she stopped me, pulling my face back up to hers. Bella kissed me softly, keeping her eyes locked with mine. "I love you. Thank you for making me your wife," she whispered. "I love you, Bella Cullen. Thank you for loving me enough to be my wife." Every touch and kiss that followed was slow and gentle. We had no worries, no responsibilities no reason to hurry. There was only my wife and I, sharing our love for each other. It was perfect.

Chapter 67 - We are once again jumping ahead in time. This is Bella and Edward's fourth Christmas together. They've been married for a year and a half now. Accidents Happen "What time is your doctor's appointment?" Edward asked. "Ten," I replied, staring at his reflection in our bathroom mirror. "Do you want me to go with you?"

"No. It's fine. You're probably right. It's probably just a relapse of the flu I had a few weeks ago. He'll write me a prescription for more antibiotics and I'll be back to my normal self in no time." "I hope so. I knew we went out dancing too soon after." "Don't start that again! I felt perfectly fine that night, as evidenced by the way we stayed up all night making love when we got home. I know your parents heard us!" "My mom may have mentioned something about wanting to soundproof our room," Edward said, a big goofy grin on his face. I slapped his arm playfully. "You keep that up and it'll be a very long time before those hands of yours get anywhere near me." He wrapped me up into a tender hug. "I love you, Bella Cullen." "I love you, Edward Cullen." I got on my tip-toes and kissed his nose. "I'm off to the doctor. I should be home a little after lunch by the time I get the prescription." "Would you like me to cook for you?" "We better wait and see how my appetite is. Right now, I couldn't possibly think of eating, seeing as it would just reappear." "That's really gross, Bella." "You can complain when you're the one puking first thing in the morning," I quipped. "I'm taking the Volvo since you're staying in with Emmett and Jasper." "How do you know I'm staying in?" "They're home and the Xbox is hooked up," I replied. "Don't get into too much trouble with those two while I'm out." "Wouldn't dream of it, love," he said, as he kissed me bye. I made my way down the stairs. Rose was holding my niece, Lily, in her lap, trying to get her to smile. Lily was a year and three months old now. She had Rose's facial features, but with Emmett's hair and eyes. I leaned down over the back of the sofa. "How are my favorite flowers today?"

"Bella, have I told you that's lame yet today?" Rose asked with a smile. I kissed her cheek. "Nope. But thanks for the warning." I leaned forward and smiled at Lily. "How are you today, Lily Bear? You gonna smile at your most favorite aunt?" "I'm not there for her to smile at," Alice said with a grin. "Shush it!" I joked, poking my tongue at Alice. Lilly started laughing, her little baby giggles filling the room. I turned back to her and kissed her little cheek. "Thanks, Lily Bear. Be good for your mommy." "Where are you off to so early?" Alice asked. "Edward made me an appointment with the doctor," I replied. "He's convinced himself I went out into the world too early after my bad case of the flu and I'm having a relapse. So to appease the infamous Tutor-boy, I'm off to see the doc for another round of antibiotics." "It cracks me up that you still call him that, Squirt," Emmett chuckled. "You stop calling me Squirt and I'll retire Tutor-boy," I told him. "Not a chance!" Emmett laughed. "Bye, people!" I yelled, as I walked out the front door. I climbed up into the Volvo and adjusted the seat for myself. I loved this damn car even if I refused to admit it to Edward. He would just run out and buy me one just like it. It had taken me two weeks of arguments to get him to agree to a used car when my truck had died the day we got married. I drove down to the doctor's office and signed myself in. Thankfully, I didn't have to wait long. With the holidays, this was prime flu season and I had been worried it would take all morning. The nurse led me into the room and had me sit. Dr. Jensen walked into the room and smiled at me. "Bella! What has you back so soon? You certainly look much healthier this time." "My nausea and headaches are back. Edward's worried I'm having a relapse of the flu."

"Have you been tired as well?" "Hard to tell with the holidays." Dr. Jensen started feeling around my neck. "How's the job at the college coming along?" "My students seem to like me. Can't ask for more than that!" "Well, your lymph nodes are fine." He took out his stethoscope. "Let's hear your lungs." I shivered slightly as the cold metal hit my skin. "Big, deep breath, Bella." I did as he said until he had listened to all the areas he wanted. "Your lungs sound fine. Let's just get a quick blood test done." "I really hate blood and needles, doc! Can't we skip this?" "And have Edward show up here? I don't think so," Dr. Jensen laughed. I laughed with him. "Yeah, he would do that. And probably have Carlisle call you, too!" "I don't doubt it. I'll have a nurse come and draw the blood and I'll be back as soon as I have some answers for you." "Thanks, Dr. Jensen." He closed the door and I let out a big sigh. I hated needles! I'd already been sick once today and I knew the smell and sight of my blood would make me sick again! I walked over and grabbed a magazine from the rack. Just as I sat down, the nurse came in. She smiled at me, but I was in no mood to return it. She was here to stab me! She took my blood and I managed to keep from looking. I was happy to not be sick! I read through three magazines before the doctor came back into the room. "Bella, I'm going to have to send you to another doctor," Dr. Jensen said, smiling at me.

Why was he smiling at me if he had bad news? Was he loopy? What kind of doctor did I need to go see? Oh, God! Please don't let it be cancer! "What? Why?" I asked. "Bella, you'll need to make an appointment with your OB/GYN. You're pregnant." "You've misplaced my test with someone else's. I'm on the pill. Have been for years." "Were you intimate with Edward while you were taking your prescriptions for the flu?" "Not really, doc! I was a little sick at the time." Dr. Jensen chuckled. "How soon after you felt better?" "Pretty soon," I said. My face and neck burned a furious red as I remembered the night in question. "Why?" "Antibiotics can render some forms of birth control ineffective. You need to stop taking it right away and make an appointment to see your OB/GYN. He'll want to run a few tests and get you on vitamins. That sort of thing. This is good news, Bella." I started laughing hysterically. "Only if you're going to be the one to tell my big brother and Edward!" "Doctor patient privilege, Bella," Dr. Jensen smirked. "Go on and hide behind that, doc! I'll remember this," I sighed, grinning at him. "Give Carlisle my best," Dr. Jensen said as he ushered me out of the room. "I'm sure he'll be real happy about this." "As proud as he is of Lily, I'm sure he'll be over the moon for his only son to make him a grandpa! Quit worrying and go home!" I got into the Volvo and just sat behind the wheel, staring at the people walking through the hospital parking lot. I knew the exact night this had happened. I had been joking about it just this morning. How was Edward going to react to this? Which one of us would Emmett kill first?

Twenty-three years old, a new college professor and I'm pregnant. On Accident! Not that this would make me regret that night because it had absolutely been one of the hottest, steamiest nights I'd ever had with Edward. My face turned red all over. Was this hormonal? Was it starting already? "Oh, God!" I groaned, resting my head against the steering wheel. I pulled out my phone and scrolled through the numbers until I found the one I needed. I waited patiently for someone to pick up. "Dr. Johnson's office." "This is Bella Cullen. I need to make an appointment to see Dr. Johnson as soon as possible." "Cullen. Hold just one minute. Bella, you were just here two months ago. Is something wrong?" "According to Dr. Jensen, I'm pregnant." "Oh, that's wonderful, Bella! Is this your first?" "Yes." "How does next Friday at eleven sound?" "Perfect." "Do you have any questions in the meantime?" "Can my husband come back with me?" "Of course he can, dear. We'll see you next Friday." "Thanks." I hung up the phone and stared at it. That makes two people who were really cheery about this baby. Unfortunately, neither of them was in my family. A baby? How did I feel about a baby? I loved Edward. I had always assumed we would one day have a baby a little piece of the both of us with his looks and my love of reading, but with Edward's math skills. I smiled as I pictured a little head of bronze hair. I realized then that I was happy about this baby. I rubbed a hand across my stomach and hoped with everything in me that Edward would be happy, too. Now, I just had to drive home and figure out how to tell him.

When I got home, it was oddly quiet. I was thankful as I made my way up the stairs. I didn't want to take the chance of blurting it out before I talked to Edward. I opened the door to our room. He was sitting on the sofa, reading a paper. He was probably checking over an essay from one of his students. I closed the door and walked over to him. "Edward, I need to talk to you." "Okay. Let me finish this paragraph and you will have my undivided attention." I waited patiently for him. He put the paper down and smiled. "Go ahead." "It's about the car thing. I think we're going to need to get another one." "Did something happen with the Volvo today?" "Not exactly." "What does not exactly mean, Bella?" "I just think it might be time to let you get me a new car instead of the used one we replaced my truck with." "Why the sudden interest in a new car?" Edward asked, as I sat on his lap facing him. I shrugged. "I just thought you might want to have your child riding in a safer car. I'll keep the old one if you want, though." He stopped breathing as my sentence caught up with him. "Bella?" "I'm not sick, Edward. I'm pregnant." Edward was clearly shocked. His jaw was hanging open and his eyes were wide. "I know!" I cried, pointing at his face. "That's the look I gave the doctor. I asked him how this was possible. Seems that antibiotics knock out the 'control' part of birth control, leaving the 'birth' part behind. So that lovely night of dancing we were joking about just this morning was the culprit." I stopped rambling and waited to see if

Edward would speak. I could see in his eyes he was trying to wrap his mind around my news. "I know this is a lot to process, but could you say something before I scream?" "You're pregnant?" Edward questioned. I nodded my head. A smile slowly crept across his lips and into his eyes. "You're pregnant," he repeated with conviction in his voice. I nodded again, smiling at him. He pulled me into his arms and ran out of our room. He stopped at the top of the stairs and yelled, "BELLA'S PREGNANT!" As soon as the echo of his scream died down, doors started opening across the house. I clung to him as I heard the footsteps running up the stairs. I lifted my head to see him smiling the goofy grin he had smiled when we got married. "Oh, Bella!" Alice shrieked, as she ran up the stairs, beating everyone else. Edward pulled me away from the edge of the stairs in anticipation of Alice's attack. She hugged me tightly around the shoulders, but kept away from my stomach. "I'm going to be an aunt!" she squealed. "Not that I'm not excited, but how did this happen?" Emmett asked, holding my little niece in his arms. "I thought you two were being careful. You haven't been out of college that long." "Well,dad!" I started. "It was an accident. There was a little something Renee forgot to mention and I never knew to ask about." "Which was?" Rose asked, as she took Lily from Emmett. I smiled at my two favorite flowers. I leaned forward and kissed my niece's forehead. I smiled up at my sister-in-law. "The antibiotics they give you for the flu can make your birth control ineffective." "Oh!" Jasper cried, as he started laughing. He sat down hard on the stairs. "That's just Oh!"

"What's with him?" Edward asked. Alice smiled. "That's how he and Rose came to be." "Carlisle, we're going to be grandparents again. Better break out your old man slippers," Esme teased. "I will be the youngest, hippest grandpa, Esme," Carlisle quipped. "No slippers for me." "We have so much to decide and plan!" Alice said, taking my hand in hers. "There's clothing and accessories and where you're going to live so we can get a nursery underway as soon as possible." "Alice, stop," Edward said softly, prying my hand from my sister-in-law's. "You're going to freak Bella out unnecessarily. Let's just be happy for the moment and enjoy Christmas. We can talk about all of this after." "Fine! But we will talk about it," Alice warned. She quickly started smiling again. "I'm going to be Auntie Ali!" She sat in Jasper's lap, throwing her arms around him. "How's that sound, Uncle Jazzy?" "We already have those names, Alice," Jasper chuckled. "Lily, remember?" "Of course, I remember! I'm just excited! We all knew Rose would have a family. But who would have thought little Eddie would grow up, marry a beautiful woman and bring a baby into the world?" Alice giggled. "So then everyone is happy about this?" I asked nervously. They all screamed my name together. "Bella!" "God, I hope the kid has better sense than you," Emmett joked, pulling me into a hug. "Just so long as the baby has her sense of humor," Rose added. "But the baby has to be musically inclined like Edward," Alice said. "Stop!" I chuckled. "Can I just be pregnant for a whole day before you all map out our baby's life?" Edward spun me around and smiled at me. "Our baby, Bella."

"Yes, Edward," I said, wrapping my arms around his neck. "Our baby."

Chapter 68 - 8 months later Birth This was it! Months of waiting! It was finally happening! By the end of today, Bella and I would be parents. She was smiling, but I could tell she was also hurting. We had just gotten her settled into the bed. I was sitting next to her, rubbing her lower back. "Did you call Em?" she asked for the third time. "Yes, love. He and Rose are on their way over with little Lily. I've also called Alice and Jasper. They should be here shortly. Carlisle is on his way down from surgery and Esme is on her way from the Garden Club meeting." "Alice won't be comfortable in the hospital," she pouted. "Bella, she'll be fine. She insisted on coming. Jasper is bringing pillows just like you instructed." "She's having twins, Edward! She needs to be pampered." "I agree, love. But Alice has a few months to go. She'll be fine. Is there anything I can do for you?" "No, I'm okay right now." "Did you want me to call Angela and Ben as well?" "No, honey. They're vacationing in Hawaii with Ben's parents. They won't be home until next week. She'll be so upset she missed it though." "I brought the camera. We'll have lots of pictures." "Just leave me out of them. I'm sure I look awful." I leaned over and kissed her temple. "You look beautiful. You are glowing. You are going to give birth to our son today."

"Do you think we're ready?" "I think it doesn't matter," I chuckled. "He's decided that's he's ready. We just have to go along." "Know what my favorite part of not being pregnant anymore will be?" she whispered. I had an idea, but leaned closer to hear her. "What, love?" "Getting to make love to you again. And we won't have an insanely huge belly in our way like the last time!" "Bella, you were nearly eight months pregnant. Besides, I have loved your belly. It's been perfectly round and beautiful." "I know! You certainly kissed it enough!" "But I've always saved my best kisses for your lips." I leaned further over and kissed her deeply. The love of my life was giving me a son today. I was filled with love for her and excitement for the changes that were coming to meet us. "Jeez, Eddie!" Emmett chuckled, as he burst into the room. "She's giving birth today! Cut her some slack and stop trying to sleep with her!" "Emmett!" Bella laughed, wiggling her hands at him. He bent low, giving her a gentle hug and a kiss on her cheek. "How are you, little sis?" he asked, his eyes misting slightly. "Really good. Edward is taking great care of me," Bella replied. "He better be," Rosalie grinned, as she entered with our niece, Lily. "My favorite flowers!" Bella chuckled. She had said it every time since she had first seen Rose holding Lily as a baby. Rose leaned down and kissed her cheek then let Lily do the same. "I'm here!" Alice squealed, bursting into the room with a large bag in her hands. "I've got you five outfits to choose from to take him home in. I also brought you some comfy pajamas for after you're all done. And I found the perfect outfit for you to go

home in. The salesperson assured me it was perfect for new mothers to help with soreness." "Breathe, Alice!" Bella laughed. Alice kissed her cheek and stared intently at her. "Are you doing okay so far?" "Yes, I promise. Where's Jazz?" Bella asked. "I'm here, Bella," Jasper said, as he walked in carrying four thick pillows. "With pillows as you ordered." "Good!" Bella sighed. "Em, would you move that chair over here so Jasper can set Alice up?" While the others made Alice comfortable, Bella grabbed my hand and gritted her teeth. I leaned down and whispered into to her ear. "Relax, love. I know it hurts, but try to breathe. I'm right here with you. I'm not going anywhere." The contraction passed and Bella found her smile again. She was so wonderful. "So have you come up with any new ideas for names?" she asked Alice. "I have gotten Jasper to agree Elizabeth is the perfect name for our daughter," Alice said with a wink. "I've decided to stop torturing him and let him know I was only teasing about Jazzy Jr. for our son." "That's good to know!" I laughed. Jasper pretended to wipe his brow. We both knew their twins would be named as Alice saw fit. "Actually," Alice said, her hazel eyes sparkling with mischief. "Bella suggested a name and I wanted to see what all of you thought about it." "What is it?" Emmett asked, as Lily crawled across his large arms. "Bella suggested Brandon would be a good name for a boy," Alice informed us. I felt Bella's grip on me starting to tighten. I rubbed her back a little harder, trying to comfort her. I leaned down to her and hummed a little of her lullaby. She still loved it

just as much as the first time I played it for her. She lovingly referred to it as her super secret composition. Her beautiful, brown eyes were closed as she took deep breaths to calm herself. The door opened and Dr. Johnson stepped in. "Hello, family," the doctor chuckled. Bella opened her eyes, but looked a little drawn. That last one must have been more painful than the others. "Edward, please introduce everyone," she said softly. I kissed her temple. "Everyone, this is Dr. Johnson. Doctor, you know my sister Alice. Next to her is her husband, Jasper, Bella's brother, Emmett, his wife, Rosalie and their daughter, Lily." "Where are Carlisle and Esme?" the doctor asked. "On their way," I answered. "Let's just see if they'll make it on time," Dr. Johnson said. "Could I get everyone to step outside?" "Except Edward!" Bella announced loudly. "Of course, Bella," the doctor assured her. "Edward will be with you the entire time. We talked about that, remember?" "I'm just nervous," she apologized. "It's fine, Bella," the doctor said softly. "All my first time mothers are nervous." "We'll be right outside," Alice said, kissing her cheek. We watched them all leave, poor Jasper struggling with the pillows once again. A nurse came in moments later. "Okay, Bella. I need you to turn on your back and open your legs wide. I need to see how dilated you are," the doctor instructed. I helped Bella as best I could and she smiled warmly at me. It melted my heart once again that this woman loved me so much.

"Excellent!" the doctor said, removing his gloves. "Bella it's almost time to start pushing. I'm going to step out and get the rest of my staff ready. We'll be right back and then we'll begin." Bella nodded her head once. The doctor and nurse stepped out. I took her hand tightly in mine and kissed the back of it. "Just think Bella. Very soon, we'll be holding him for the first time." "I can't wait to see his face. And then we'll know just what to name him." The doctor came back in with three nurses this time. They also pushed in a large cart. Bella and I looked at it and then at each other. The doctor noticed. "It's just for cleaning him up and weighing him after he's born. I don't expect there to be any problems." The doctor sat at the end of Bella's bed and lifted up the stirrups. "Alright, Bella. I need you to scoot down some." One of the nurses went to her right side and together, we helped Bella get into position. The other nurses put her feet in the stirrups. Bella pulled my hand tightly against her. Her brown eyes held fear, excitement and love. I leaned close to her. "Everything will be fine, love. You can do this." "Bella, when the next contraction comes, I want you to push while the nurse counts to ten. When she stops counting, you can rest until the next contraction. Do you understand?" the doctor asked. Bella nodded her head. "Okay, Bella. Here comes the first one. Lean forward a little and push hard." The nurse counted. "One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten." Bella relaxed against her pillows, panting. She was sweating in earnest now. I grabbed the towel from her bedside tray and wiped her brow. She gave me a sad smile. I wished I could feel this pain in her place. "Again, Bella," the doctor instructed.

This went on for nearly thirty minutes. I was a little concerned that things weren't moving along faster. It was the first time I had ever wished I had gone to medical school. Then I would know whether or not I should be concerned. "I can't, Edward," Bella whispered. "I'm tired." "I know, love. But you're getting so close," I told her, trying to smile for her. "Edward, can you sit behind her? It'll give her some more leverage," the doctor said. I moved behind her and grabbed both of her hands. I had her sitting up and resting against my chest. "Bella, he's crowning. If you can give us one more really great push, we can get him out." Bella nodded her head and took a shaky breath. I don't know where she found the strength, but she squeezed my hands even tighter. She gritted her teeth and pushed hard. Her whole body was shaking from the effort. As the contraction ended, she screamed and fell back against me. "It's a boy!" the doctor announced. I tried to see, but it was hard with holding Bella this way. The room was quiet for a moment and then it was filled with a loud cry. I laughed and kissed the top of Bella's head. "Hear that, Bella? That's our baby. You did it!" "Edward, would you like to cut the cord?" the doctor asked. I nodded and gently laid Bella against her pillows. She watched me closely, smiling at me. The doctor handed me the scissors and showed me what to do. One of the nurses had taken our camera and took some pictures for us. The other nurses took the baby and moved him over to the table. I followed them, looking at my son. I was watching as they weighed him when it happened "Edward, please step outside," Dr. Johnson said suddenly. I turned to face him and noticed his face was strained. "What's going on?"

"I'm having a little trouble with Bella's bleeding. I need you to step outside so the nurses and I can get it under control," the doctor explained. "I'll stay right here, please don't make me leave her side," I said quickly. "I understand how you feel, Edward, but it really would be best if you left the room right now," the doctor replied. His tone let me know I had no choice but to leave. I walked quickly to Bella's side and kissed her sweaty forehead. "Don't you dare leave me, Isabella Cullen! Don't you dare!" She murmured my name as a nurse pushed me out of the room. Bella's brown eyes were locked on mine as the door slowly closed, separating us.

Chapter 69 - Birth 2 I shook my head, refusing to believe this was really happening. This had to be some insane dream. She wouldn't leave me. She couldn't! She promised! "Bella," I whispered to myself. "Please be safe. Please don't leave me. I love you too much to lose you." "I heard the cry," Emmett said, patting me on the back. "How big is he?" I turned to face him and he saw the haunted look on my face. I couldn't hide it. Bella was in trouble and there was nothing I could do about it. "Edward." His voice demanded an answer. "There's a complication with Bella. They made me leave," I replied, not looking up at him. "Edward, why do you look like you're about to crumble?" Jasper asked, running over to me. "She's bleeding badly, Jazz. They made me leave," I answered, choking back my tears. They moved me away from her door and into the waiting area where the rest of our family was sitting.

My mother ran up to me, all smiles. "Are we late? Is he here yet?" I couldn't keep it in any longer. I sobbed loudly and fell to the floor. "Edward!" Alice and my mother screamed. "Give him a minute," Emmett demanded, putting a hand on my shoulder. "There's a problem with Bella and they made him leave the room." "What kind of problem?" Alice screamed. "Alice," Jasper soothed, making her sit. "You have to be calm. Think of the twins." "That's my sister in there!" Alice cried. "And she would be very mad at you if you let anything happen to our babies," Jasper said. Alice buried her face in his chest and cried. I watched all of this from my spot on the floor, clutching at my heart, wondering why it was hurting so much. I was vaguely aware of Carlisle and Emmett moving me to a chair. Rosalie and my mother sat on either side of me, rubbing my arms and whispering to me, telling me Bella would be fine. I wanted to believe them. I really did. But only seeing her smiling face would convince me. The next two hours were the longest of my entire life. No one came out to talk to us. There were no sounds coming from her room. What was I going to do if I lost her? My parents tried to get me to go down to the nursery to see the baby, but I couldn't do it. I had to stay here. What if the doctor came out and Bella needed me? We sat quietly, except for Lily's occasional peals of laughter as someone entertained her. I ran my hands through my hair for the millionth time, trying to keep my brain from thinking the worst. "Edward." I looked up to see Dr. Johnson had called my name. I stood up slowly as he approached me. This man was about to either ruin my life or make me very happy. "Edward, there was a lot of bleeding," the doctor continued. "We tried to stop it as quickly as we could. I'm sorry, son. I did all I could."

Chapter 70 - After I pushed the door open slowly. I had asked our family to stay in the waiting area for now. I wanted to be alone with her. I didn't want to have to deal with anymore of their sorrowful looks. Pity was the last thing I needed right now. They had moved Bella onto her side, facing the window. I wanted to see her face, but I was scared to go any closer. The pregnancy had been unplanned. It had been an accident, really. But we had both been so excited about it, just like the rest of the family. But if I had known it would end this way How could this have happened? And especially to her? She was so warm and loving to everyone in our life. She was as much of an angel as anyone could ever hope to be. I knew better than most that life wasn't fair, but this was far beyond that. I forced my feet to move across the floor. I watched her still form as I crossed the end of the bed and moved toward the window. It was killing me to see her this way. I sat in the chair Alice had used earlier. My hand shook as I reached out to touch her forehead. She felt so cold. I smoothed her hair back, tucking a lock behind her ear as I'd done so many times in our short life together. I leaned my head against hers and cried silently for the angel before me. "Edward." It was a small whisper from a hoarse voice, but it was all my heart needed to hear. I quickly wiped my eyes and smiled down at her. I hoped she wouldn't blame me or herself for this. If we had known to use protection that night, she wouldn't be in this pain. But we also wouldn't have a son, the selfish part of me noted. I hoped she would still be happy about the baby. "Bella. I was so scared." "Me, too." Tears fell from her brown eyes and her body shook with sobs. I climbed into the bed and held her tightly against my chest. I stroked her hair and back. "You're safe now, Bella. Everything will be okay. I promise you." I doubted I

would ever be able to let her out of my sight after this. I had come so close to loosing her. It was unbearable to think of life without her. "Did did did he tell you?" she sobbed.

"Yes, love." "And?" "And what?" "Aren't you upset?" "No, Bella. I don't care. You're alive and safe. That's all that matters." "But you we can't have anymore children."

"I didn't know we wanted more than the one," I chuckled, trying to ease her worries. "We never really talked about it. He was such a surprise." "I've told you this nearly every day since we met, Bella. I hope you'll believe me when I tell you now. You are all I need in this life. I'm very happy we have a son, but Bella, I need you." "I need you, too. It would have been so easy to just let go of the pain I didn't think I could take it anymore, every part of me was aching so badly, Edward. But then I thought of the night I moved into your parents' house You crushed me against you, telling me you loved me and that it would kill you if I wasn't with you. That's why I wouldn't let myself give up It would have hurt you and I love you too much to ever hurt you." We held tightly to each other, taking comfort in the words we'd spoken. She'd almost I couldn't even speak the word in my own mind. I could only keep thanking God, again and again, that Bella was alive and in my arms right now. "Is the baby okay?" she asked. "He's fine. He's in the nursery now. Dr. Johnson wants you to rest for a while before they bring the baby." "What if he gets hungry?"

"They'll give him a bottle. You're too weak to feed him right now. Maybe in a few days." "Is the family still here?" "Yes, love." "Do they know?" "Yes." Bella sighed heavily. "I guess that's for the best. At least this way, I don't have to tell them myself." "You should try to sleep now, love." "You have to stay with me." "I had no plans to leave." I kissed her head and hugged her just a little tighter. I hummed to her and she fell into a peaceful sleep. I sighed deeply, relieved she was safe and in my arms. I closed my eyes and said some silent prayers of thanks. My shoulder was being shaken. "Eddie!" I knew that voice. It belonged to Emmett. I opened my eyes and turned my head. Our family was in the room with us. I looked down at Bella to see she was still sleeping. Her light snores were beautiful. I kissed her cheek and moved off the bed. "How is she?" my mother asked, pulling me into a hug. "She's very tired. I don't think she realizes just how close she came to loosing her life today," I whispered. "Trust me, son, she knows," my mother replied. "She is just trying to be strong for you." "I don't need her to be strong for me," I sighed, running my hand through my hair. "She needs it," my mother said. "You need to let her handle this the best way she can." "It's a good thing we're still living at home," I sighed. "The doctor said it's going to be a few weeks before she can really move around and help with the baby."

"It'll all work out, Edward," my father said, putting a hand on my shoulder. "Your mother and I will be more than happy to be the spoiling grandparents." "Don't forget about Auntie Alice!" Alice chirped. I turned to her. "You, sister dear, are going to stay rested like your doctor told you to. We are not going to be in the position of having to worry about you." "Edward's right." We all turned to Bella, as her soft voice floated across the room. I went to her, helping her to sit up and letting her lean against me. "Did you sleep well?" She nodded her head. "I'm rested. Can I see the baby now?" I pressed the call button next to her bed. A nurse stepped in a moment later. "Bella! You're awake. Are you feeling any pain right now?" "No. I'm fine. I was hoping to see the baby," Bella replied. "Let me check with Dr. Johnson," the nurse said. "I'm sure it won't be a problem." A few minutes later, the nurse returned, pushing a small cart. A blue bundle rested inside of it. My family started oohing and aahing and whispering to each other as the nurse came around to the window side of the room. She gently lifted the baby out and put him in Bella's waiting arms. He had the faintest hint of bronze hair and wide brown eyes. He had my nose, but her lips. He was beautiful. Bella kissed his forehead and held his little hand in hers. I hugged them both against me. "Edward, I have an idea for a name," she said, smiling up at me. I nodded for her to go on. "What do you think about Charles Edward Cullen? We could call him Charlie for short." "I think it's beautiful, Bella," I replied, kissing her lips gently. "Works for me!" Alice chirped. "Dad would be very happy about that, Bella," Emmett said solemnly.

"He looks like a Charlie," Rose offered. "Now we can finish his room!" my mother beamed. "Carlisle, we must go to the dcor store when we leave. I know just what style lettering I want to get for him." "Look up you two!" my father called. Bella and I looked toward his voice. He was holding our camera. He took a picture of us our first picture as our own complete little family. The first of many! Two Years Later Bella's POV: "Charles Edward Cullen! You get your little naked booty back over here right now!" I fussed, as I chased after my giggling son. The bedroom door opened to reveal my perfectly wonderful husband. He took one look at me and his de-clothed son and started laughing. Charlie ran for Edward screaming 'Daddy' all the way. Edward bent down and scooped him up in one fluid motion. "Mommy doesn't look too happy with you, Charlie. What did you do?" "I splash Mommy!" Charlie said happily. "I ran." I walked over and hugged my two favorite men in the all the world. Edward gave me a wonderful kiss while Charlie laughed at us. I turned my attention to the little browneyed devil that was my baby boy. "Lily will be here soon. Do you want your girl cousin to see your nakey-body?" "No, Momma!" Charlie shouted, tossing his arms around my neck. I smiled at my victory as I took my baby into my arms. I kissed his hair and took a deep breath. Charlie always seemed to smell of baby powder and Edward, no matter what I washed him with. "Are they really coming over?" Edward asked, as he followed me across the hall, into Charlie's bedroom. "Yes. Rose insisted they come here instead of us going there. She is so tired of being pregnant and Emmett is too afraid to fight with her," I explained.

Edward chuckled. "I can't wait to see who their son is going to take after. Lily is pretty much right down the line between the two of them." "Only time will tell. Charlie certainly seems to be more and more like you everyday. I hardly see myself in him at all anymore," I said with a small sigh. He took Charlie from me and put him into his shirt. He tilted our baby's face, making Charlie giggle. "Bella, you can see yourself in him every time you look at these eyes of his. They're nearly as deep as yours. And you have to know that his sense of humor is all yours." I worked with Edward to get Charlie's pull-ups and pants on. "He has something new to show you today." "Really?" he asked with excitement clear in his voice and face. He loved it when Charlie had something new to show him. "Charlie, show Daddy what you learned to do today all by yourself!" Charlie smiled and it was the exact same crooked grin of Edward's, but without dimples. I pointed at our little boy. "That is what I'm talking about." Edward laughed as he pulled Charlie and me into his arms. "Bella, you are absurd. Just because Charlie looks like me and can smile like me doesn't mean he no longer has traits from you." "I know that, Edward. He's just getting so big so fast." "Please listen to me and stop working, Bella. Charlie is only going to be a baby for a few more years. Please stay home with him and enjoy them." "But you shouldn't have to carry all the expenses on your own." "Love, my salary is more than enough to cover everything, especially since we own this home." "True. I still can't believe Carlisle and Esme put up the rest of the money to get us this home."

"They love us," Edward said with a shrug. He looked at me for a moment, completely serious. "Bella, I want you to stay home with our wonderful baby boy. I'm no longer going to accept 'no' for an answer. You are staying home." Edward lay down on his back and lifted Charlie up into the air, making him squeal. "And that's final." "I love it when you get all bossy," I chuckled, lying down next to him. "More, Daddy!" Charlie squealed. "More, huh?" Edward chuckled. He rolled over and put Charlie on my stomach. He started to tickle us both. Charlie squirmed around on me while I tried to keep him in place through my own laughter. When Charlie started to hiccup, Edward finally stopped tickling us. He kissed our son's forehead sweetly then leaned over and kissed me on the lips. He pulled away just a little and smiled at me. "I love you, Bella Cullen. You are my life and you make everyday worthwhile. Thank you for loving me. Thank you for being my wife. And thank you for the beautiful little boy in your arms." "All of those things you just said right back at you, Tutor-boy!"

Edward smiled and started kissing me all over again while Charlie giggled between us. This wonderful life had been brought to us by one little choice to go to dinner years ago. In the last five years of my life, I'd learned life's little choices often had the world's biggest impacts. THE END

The second story of human Edward and Bella will be up and it's called "Our Little Man". Hope you like it.