Editors Notes:
I came up with the idea for this story last Christmas when I heard for the first time Mahalia Jackson rendition of "What Child is this". I'm not usually a big fan of soul, but it spoke to me, and the church and the bible scene came to me. After I wrote "I hope you had the time of your life" I thought it would work better as part of that story arc rather than a stand-alone story.
I'd encourage you to listen to it before reading, the first scene goes so well with it. Here's a link… watch?v=DdaqMqZJykw
For anyone who hasn't read chapter 2 of "I hope you had the time of your life" I based the character of Rev. Mike Ryan on the monsignor in 'Guess who's coming to dinner' and a minister I once knew (Who wasn't Irish though.)
This story has grown and grown so it's in two parts, I'm planning on posting the second within a week.
I've also tried a different style, this is written in the third person narrator rather than the first person, so let me know what you think.
A note of warning, there is a pretty extreme oral sex scene at the end so if you prefer romance and not the hard stuff stop reading just after the nightmare, you'll get plenty of warning before it starts heating up and you won't miss any plot, just the juicy stuff.
This story is a gift to my two most supportive readers Vykki_Q and Elizabeth. Thanks Guy's you lift me up! Merry Christmas ;-)
Enjoy.
See end note for more…
'What child is this' Mahalia Jackson
What child is this, who, laid to rest,
On Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The babe, the son of Mary.
Why lies He in such mean estate,
Where ox and donkeys are feeding?
Good Christians, fear, for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.
Nails, spears shall pierce him through,
the cross he bore for me, for you.
Hail, hail the Word made flesh,
the Babe, the Son of Mary.
So bring him incense, gold, and myrrh,
Come, peasant, king, to own him.
The King of kings salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone him.
Raise, raise a song on high,
The virgin sings her lullaby
Joy, joy for Christ is born,
The babe, the Son of Mary.
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The babe, the son of Mary.
Sorry everyone… this time of the year is frantic so I had to break this up. I definitely will be posting the end in a couple of days or so, promise!
OK and I also know it rarely snows in Forks that early in the season, but WTF I've only seen the snow twice in my life so I wanted a white Christmas damn it!
takes deep breath…
It was a cold, dark night, mist swirled around the newly fallen snow that lay crisp and fresh on the ground. The streetlights seemed to make no headway against the mist and the only other illumination came from the small church, the light blazing from its large windows like a beacon in the frosty night.
Edward's Silver Volvo crunched to a halt on the snow as they pulled up opposite Fork's High in the parking lot of the Fork's First (and only) Congregational Church.
Edward left the engine running so Riley could saviour the heat for a few moments more before they made their dash to the Church.
Edward also needed time to collect his thoughts… he had no idea why he let Riley drag him along to this. He hadn't set foot in a church for 85 years. He was more than a little worried. His Religious upbringing had been heavy on the old testament, a wrathful God eager to strike down any sinner, and as far as Edward could see he was the greatest mass murder in Forks at the moment, couldn't get much higher on the sinner list.
As if sensing this Riley took Edwards right hand off the steering wheel and laced his fingers through it. It was ice cold, but Riley had learnt not to flinch at it. His super-hot hand began to warm it as Riley tried to poor all his love and support into the gesture. Riley said nothing. He didn't need to. Edward could hear his thought clearly. Encouraging. Loving. Edward couldn't believe how lucky he was to have finally found someone after all this time… and not just anyone, but someone who's love for him blazed like a forest fire. Warmed his cold dead stone heart till he felt it almost start to beat again.
Riley gave Edward's hand a little squeeze and asked mentally if Edward was ready.
Edward was amazed at how Riley had fallen into telepathic communication with him. He had just taken it in his stride as if it were normal that his every thought could be heard rather than being freaked out as most people would be.
He also had learnt how to hide his thoughts to some degree which Edward found irritating but strangely endearing. Riley never hid bad thoughts, or trivial ones. He usually put his effort into hiding things that either would hurt Edward, or a surprise he was going to give Edward.
Edward had had no surprises in 85 years, knowing what everyone was thinking almost before they did, meant that life was very predictable. Riley's first surprise had knocked Edward sideways and he wasn't sure he liked it. But when he knew he could trust Riley, that it was all from love, Edward came to relish the sensation. Riley was the first person to show such care. Even his family hadn't. Though this didn't stop the ever curious Edward prying into Riley's mind to try and get a glimpse, something Riley found out and turned against Edward in a playful way.
Edward still didn't have a clue what Riley had bought him for Christmas… Riley careful never thought about presents when in Edward's presence, or to tease him thought of the most ridiculous ones… I pneumatic sextoy for example that just freaked Edward out.
Riley enjoyed fucking with Edwards head a little, which Edward also thought incredibly captivating and also mightily irritating.
The only other character fault Riley had, if you could call it that was his persistence. Once on track he was unstoppable, impossible to dissuade, like now with the simple raising of an eyebrow he again asked if Edward was ready.
Edward let out a totally unnecessary breath to emphasis his reticence and nodded.
'Let's do this' thought Riley. And the theme from mission impossible ran through his head. Edward rolled his eyes, Riley gave him a small smile, at first mischievous, then contrite. He was trying to lighten the atmosphere but knew Edward too well to think he could succeed. He apologized with his eyes and it took all Edwards strength not to go over and kiss Riley in front of everyone… but that would have broken the vampire's cardinal rule, 'never make a spectacle of yourself'.
They hurried as fast as the ice would allow Riley to walk unaided, over to the entrance to the church, clouds of mist coming from Riley's mouth, and even from Edward's with the temperature differential from his body that was at room temperature or just below and the cold outside.
Edward took Riley's hand when he skidded… people's opinions be damned; he wouldn't allow Riley to hurt himself just because of what people may think.
They came to the entrance to the church where the light blazed out. Most of the small congregation had already fled inside into the comparative warmth. The long suffering minister stood on the threshold rubbing his hands to keep them warm and looking for any last stragglers.
His eyes came to rest on Riley and Edward coming over. A smile graced his face.
He knew Riley… he and his mother were regular attendees, he admired that they helped the Quileute down on the res, which is where they met and the way they were friends with them not patronizing like some 'do-gooders'; but who was his friend? His smile broadened. A new young person to their small congregation. He raised his eyes to the havens and quietly thanked God for his providence.
Edward smiled at the thought.
"Merry Christmas Master Biers… And who do we have here with you." He said in the sing song light Irish brogue.
"This is my friend Edward Cullen, He's Doctor Cullen's son, they are new to town, and I thought he might like to see what we do for Christmas." Said Riley. Taking the minister's proffered hand and shaking it.
Edward extended his hand as well. "It's an honor sir." Said Edward in his best kiss ass way, half smile and everything, he thought he might need all the allies he could get to make it through this night intact.
"The pleasure is all mine master Cullen and call me Mike, everyone does, I'm only sir to me bank manager, and he doesn't mean it." he said with an impish smile gracing his face. Edward returned the smile.
"Oh laddie, your hand's freezing," said the minister. Edward immediately retracted it.
"I guess it's that time of year." Said Riley coming to Edward's aid.
"Get inside the pair of you before your freeze to death, I've got me electric long johns on under this." He pointed to his cassock. "God's warmth needs a little helping hand on nights like this." Another smile. Edward couldn't help liking the man. He was one of the kindest men he knew, his thoughts all pure and joyous.
Riley placed his hand on Edward's shoulder and guided him inside. The unmistakably intimate gesture was not lost on the minister who let out a little knowing smile. Which Riley missed and Edward didn't notice, he was too busy staring with dread at the altar.
Riley noticed Edwards hands was trembling… to anyone looking they would have presumed it was from the cold, but Riley knew it was from fear. Edward had never been afraid since he was changed, but he was now petrified. He dragged his gaze from the alter and up to the rafters of the ceiling, he almost expected the roof to peel off and bolts of lightning and brimstone to come falling down upon him.
Riley took his hand tightly. Another gesture the minister noticed who was following them in, having decided there would be no more latecomers and it was time to get started.
Riley thought clearly to Edward… 'it's ok… nothing's going to happen.'
Edward glanced at Riley nervously. Riley saw the terror in his eyes. Edward again returned his gaze to the ceiling. Riley followed it and put two and two together.
They took a pew near the back by themselves so no one could see them. Edward was barely holding it together; Riley knew keeping up appearances for others would be too much.
Riley again thought to Edward whose gaze was still fixed on the ceiling.
'there is no way, no how, God is going to strike you down… if he tries he has to come through me.'
Edward again looked at Riley sceptical, until he saw the determination burning in his eyes, he meant it… he would stand in the way of the Lords lightning bolts to shield Edward.
'I mean it Edward… I would stand between you and harm any day, even defy God if I have to.'
Edward swallowed. He gazed deep into Riley's eyes and saw the sincerity there. What did he do to deserve such loyalty?
The minister started the service. There were a few hymns, some bible readings and then the minister gave a short sermon. It was about God's eternal love. That he loved the world so much he sent his only son down to save the sinners and give them redemption. Edward remembered similar Christmas sermons from his childhood, but the words never sank in… now with his immortal experience he was enraptured…
The minister's light brogue danced across the words… there were a few jokes to lighten things, but his deep sincerity and belief that everyone could be saved struck Edward… he would have to talk to Carlisle about what he had heard tonight.
The minister fixed Edward with his friendly gaze as he summed up the bit about everyone was saved… it was as if he was giving the sermons especially for Edward's benefit, as though he knew…. But how could he… maybe he just could see a soul in torment… Edward could only read compassion in his thoughts and concern for Edward's well being.
When the final hymn was sung the minister made his way up to the back of the church to Farewell his flock into the cold night.
Edward was so shell shocked he just sat there as people walked past, smiling and nodding their heads, all happy to see two teenagers in church on Christmas eve in these godless times… it gave them a feeling on hope. This mixed with Edward's confusion and made things even worse.
Riley placed his hand on Edwards arm to let him know he was there for him.
Riley thought 'are you ok?' there was a touch of worry in his thoughts, he wondered if he did the right thing bringing Edward, making him confront his fears head on, whether it was too much. Riley chastised himself for being so pushy, remembering the obvious pain Edward had experienced.
"I'm fine" replied Edward to reassure Riley. He didn't know if he was… but he was still alive, which was a starting point, but had more questions than he had answers.
When everyone had filed out Riley stood and questioned Edward with his eyes. Edward slowly raised himself and they walked out to the minister on the threshold.
"Thank you for the service, it was beautiful." Said Riley.
"Very moving." added Edward.
Riley looked at Edward then the minister. A silent conversation seemed to be going on between them. Riley then summoned up courage and hoped Edward wouldn't hate him for what he was about to do.
"Mike," Riley said a little uneasily, he was still not used to calling a man so much his senior by his first name, an old fashioned concept that Edward found reassuring and endearing. "My friend had a question about your sermon." Edward shot Riley a killer glance as if to say don't go there. Riley looked apologetically at him then plunged on. "When you said that God sent Jesus down to forgive our sins… does that mean all our sins? Is there a sin so great; like murder, that God could never forgive?"
"Well, I'm glad you two were paying attention. That's simple to answer. God is love, Jesus died so we would have that. If you are repentant of your sins, and believe in the love of the lord, then you could have killed a thousand people and God would forgive you." Said the minister seriously looking at Edward. Edward swallowed. The words hit him like a bolt of lightning… how could this man know… but if he was right… there might be hope.
Seeing that things had got far too serious for Christmas time the minster tried to lighten matters. "Now I know our lot doesn't believe in confession, but I don't suppose your young self has a mass murder to confess to?"
Edward swallowed again. He knew his body language was way off but couldn't pull himself together enough to change it. "No." he managed to choke out with what sounded like a hollow laugh.
"You just need to confess your sins to God right Mike." Said Riley trying to save the situation before it spun out of control, or any further out of control.
"That's right laddie… while I may be a terrible old busy body, it's not me that needs to know what you or anyone else has done… and God already knows what has been done, he'd just like you, or anyone to admit it and ask for his forgiveness… Not unreasonable of him if you think about it." The minister eyes flickered from Riley to Edward, back and forth before coming to rest on Edward. He had an inkling of what the two were so nervous about, why they thought they might need God's forgiveness… the bible was fairly clear about those mater… though of course Jesus never mentioned it. The minister tossed up whether to mention that, but thought that it would be better if they raised it.
Edward was so shell shocked that he didn't pay attention to where the minister thoughts were leading.
"Food for thought." Said Riley thinking Edward needed to get out of there before he fried his brain.
"Indeed, Merry Christmas boys and now hurry off home lest you catch your death of cold." Said the minister. "I'll be seeing you tomorrow morning?" he added.
"I'll definitely be there with Mum; I'm not sure what Edwards family is doing." Said Riley.
The minister smiled at this and waved them off. When he saw they were safely to their car he began shutting up the church. He raised his eyes to heaven and thanked God for giving him another young person in his church… it was the best Christmas present he could get.
When Edward and Riley climbed in the car Edward automatically turned the engine on to warm the cab. He was operating on autopilot, a million thoughts running through his head. He was knocked from his reverie by the feeling of sorrow coming off of Riley.
Riley had his head in his hands and was apologizing to Edward in his head.
"Riley what is it?" Edward asked concerned.
Riley looked up at him with red rimmed eyes, he was near to tears with grief… "I pushed you too far… I'm so sorry. I always do it…I think I know best for everyone, and now I've hurt you…" this came out of the blue.
"Riley, I'm fine…" Edward said, trying to sound sincere… "I just have a lot on my mind." Riley's eyes winced at this. Edward realized he would need to tell Riley what he thought, Riley was so good at reading Edward he often forgot that Riley was not telepathic, but when Riley's senses were clouded with emotion like they are now, his extrasensory faculties let him down.
"Thankyou." Said Edward. Riley looked surprised and shocked. 'for what' he asked in his mind. "For bringing me to church, for asking that question… I know it mightn't seem it, but a huge load has been taken off me… I can't wait to talk to Carlisle about it. Thank you." Edward said sincerely.
Riley dared to offer a smile. Edward used his telepathy to see if anyone was in sight, they were alone. He then raised his right hand to Riley's face and cupped his cheek. Rubbing his cold thumb over it. Riley leant into the tender gesture. They didn't need to speak now. They both understood where they were up to. Edward lent in and kissed Riley tenderly. They sat like this for a few minutes. Then Edward realized that time was escaping and he had promised Mrs Biers that he would have Riley home by midnight. And they still had Alice's Christmas eve party to go to.
"We better be going or I'll be in trouble with your mother." Said Edward.
"Hell and brimstone would be a synch compared." Said Riley with a smile. Edward didn't doubt him.
Edwards hand sank down to take Riley's and they drove off.
….
When Riley had mentioned the words 'Christmas' and 'party' Alice had nearly gone apoplectic. She had been dismayed by the Cullen's lack of festive creativity over the past five decades… but now they had a human who loved Christmas in their midst, it gave her an excuse to go over the top… and there was no over the top like Alice's over the top.
Edward drove up the long drive… they saw the lights from the house long before it was actually visible.
"Alice?' Riley asked.
"You might need to brace yourself… and put on sun glasses." Said Edward ruefully.
As they rounded the corner the house came into view. It had more lights on it then the Empire State Building. All the trees around were illuminated in fairy lights of all different colors flashing on and off in many different types of syncopation.
If anyone else attempted it, it would have look gaudy, but Alice had an amazing ability to be completely ostentatious but with immaculate taste.
"Wow," was all Riley could say as they climbed out before he was assailed by the whirling dervish know as Alice at Christmas.
"What do you think? what do you think?" she squealed as she gripped Riley in a bear hug.
"Alice let him breath…" Said Edward. Alice gave him a drop dead look.
Finally, Alice pried herself off Riley allowing him enough oxygen to communicate. "I can't wait to see the tree." Alice's childish enthusiasm bubble over even more as she grabbed Riley's hand and dragged him inside. Riley's feet barely touched the floor.
As they climbed the stairs Riley's senses were overloaded by the smell of Turkey, roast vegetables and plum pudding.
When Riley reached the top of the stairs he wasn't disappointed. The tree would put the one at the Rockefeller Center to shame.
"Wow." Was all Riley could say, he was in sensory overload. Because it wasn't just the tree, every square inch of walls and ceiling had tinsel, streamers and lights hanging from them.
Emm came from round behind the tree after putting the last bauble on.
"Pretty cool Hu?" he said before going over to give Riley a man hug.
"Outstanding…" Riley replied.
Esme came out of the kitchen, came over and hugged Riley. "Now there will be plenty of time to appreciate the decorations later… Dinner is ready and we don't want it to get cold." Riley's mouth was already watering…
Esme escorted him to the dining room where the table was covered with a giant Christmas spread, a turkey so large 'it looked like its mother had been rogered by an omnibus' Riley thought quoting Blackadder's Christmas Carol, Edward smirked at the now familiar reference. A huge platter of roast vegetables, a giant gravy boat brimming with steaming brown liquid. About twenty different salads. And tinsel, baubles, holey and candles in between.
As Riley stepped across the threshold Alice cleared her throat. Riley looked at her and she pointed above his head. There was a giant sprig of mistletoe… "It is tradition…" she said with a grin.
"One I am going to enjoy getting accustomed to." Riley said with a smirk thinking of Edward. He looked at Jasper… "With your permission?" he asked, Jasper nodded his approval…
Riley planet a kiss on Alice's cheek… "Oh I think we can do better than that." She said and before he knew it Alice had planted a big kiss on his lips. He reddened and looked embarrassed.
This started the ball rolling with all the female Cullen's…
"When do I get my kiss." Emm said in a girly voice….
Riley regrouped fast. "Any time you want big boy!" and winked at Emm who if he were human would have gone red as a beat. "Anyone else?" he asked. Japer looked extremely nervous and Edward stepped in to save him.
"If it's not too much trouble." He said walking over to Riley.
"I suppose I've got one left." Riley quipped and Edward silenced him with his lips to the "aww's" of everyone.
Riley sat at the table and Carlisle did his 'head of the family' thing and carved the turkey (he had been studying how to do it all day). Riley was soon handed a plate groaning with food. No one could say the Cullen's were stingy.
Riley smiled widely. "You really shouldn't have gone to all this trouble." He said.
"We loved every minute of it." Esme said.
"But all this for just me… none of you can enjoy it…"
"We will enjoy seeing you enjoy it." replied Esme.
"I'm sorry I can't reciprocate." Riley responded. Edward had offered to take him hunting with them but Riley was an animal lover, so he politely refused. He wasn't a hypocrite. He was a meat eater and he knew where it came from, and he respected the Cullen's will power to restrict themselves to only eating animals… He also knew that they killed the animals more humanly then the abattoirs where Riley's food came from; he just didn't want to see it. They respected that too.
"We understand." Said Carlisle.
Riley not only meant that… he was quite a good cook himself which he inherited from his mother and Grandmother, but he couldn't reciprocate. He felt that the Cullen's gave him so much and he gave so little in return.
Edward read his mind and took his hand. "Being here is present enough." He said. He knew what Carlisle was thinking and nodded for him to share it.
"Riley… you have given us a wonderful present… every human we have encountered up till meeting you has fallen into two categories, either they were cold towards us knowing that somehow we were 'not normal'; or they wished to become one of us either because they hated their life, they were frightened of death or were narcissist that never wanted to grow old… You on the other hand just treat us as friends. You don't judge us; you accept us for who we are. You are the only human we can not only relax around, but enjoy your company. I have seen every member of this family's life improve since you have been in it, myself included. We didn't know it at the time, but our lives were hollow before then. And I can't imagine going back to that life." Here here said Jasper with a smile. "This." Carlisle gesticulated at the table of food." Is only a small way to try and repay you for what you have done?" Everyone nodded their assent.
Riley had a lump in his throat the size of a boulder and his eyes were watering. Edward squeezed his hand, lent over and whispered in his ear. "That goes double for me."
For once in his life Riley was lost for words… But his silence spoke volumes.
Esme stepped in to save him. "Eat before it gets cold." Riley smiled, then before he tucked in, a thought came to him.
"Carlisle…" He hesitated, not knowing if it was appropriate or not. "Can you say grace for us." There was deathly silence around the table. Riley immediately regretted opening his mouth, he knew what a sensitive subject it was for them, but he also knew they all believed, they just had this ridiculous idea in their head that they were dammed.
The pause dragged on… "Sorry." Riley said lowering his head… he had ruined the night.
Edward rubbed his back. "It's ok." He said. He looked at Carlisle pleadingly. Carlisle had a pained expression on his face.
"As our guest, why don't you say grace for us." Carlisle said trying to save the moment.
Riley nodded. Nervously took a breath and collected his thoughts.
"Dear God, thank you for this bounty before us, bless those that are not so fortunate…And thank you for the warmth of this company… Bless all those around this table for their kindness and Christian spirit. In your name… Amen." There was silence. But everyone silently responded a hesitant Amen in their heads.
"Thank you Riley… that was… beautiful." Said Esme.
After a few moments pause everyone stared at Riley's plate and he got the hint it was time to dig in. It was a struggle, but he managed to demolish it.
Riley was thinking if they were humans he would regale them with his Winston Churchill and the turkey joke, but he did it at thanksgiving and vampires have perfect memories.
Edward lent over to whisper in Riley's ear… "They have all been waiting for you to tell it… they love your Churchill impression." Said Edward. Riley beamed.
"I know I told you this only 29 days ago, but I can't help myself." Apologized Riley… "Winston Churchill before he became Prime Minister went over to America where his mother was born and spent thanksgiving there. As a celebrity he was invited to one of New York's finest hostess' mansion for dinner." Everyone had a smile on their face. "When the turkey came out and was expertly carved the hostess asked Mr Churchill 'what will you have?'; Mr Churchill said 'I will have a small portion of breast'" Riley did his best impersonation of one of his heroes. "There was a collective intake of breath, the hostess tuted and said 'it's white meat and dark meat.' Churchill relented… but never to be cowed, the next day he returned with a corsage to thank his host for the lovely dinner. When she answered the door he gave it to her and quipped 'allow me to place it on your white meat…" everyone exploded in laughter. Riley looked cock of the walk.
As the laughter died down Esme got up and placed a hand on Rose's shoulder and Rose followed her out to the kitchen, Esme returned with a gigantic plum pudding aflame with brandy. Everyone "Ahhh'd" but being extremely flammable kept well clear. Rose came in carrying a sauce boat filled with steaming custard and placed it next to Riley with a smile.
Once the flames died out Esme returned to cut the pudding. Giving Riley a huge slice which Rose covered in custard, hearing from Edward that Riley liked it swimming. Riley had a huge smile on his face.
After diner they returned to the tree, under which was crammed with presents. Alice had gone overboard as usual. Edward had suggested to Riley and his family that Riley give them his presents tonight and they would give him theirs Christmas night; one so Riley's extremely modest presents would not be overshadowed by their expensive ones and also so Mrs Biers modest presents to her son would not seem like an anti-climax. (though he used different reasoning with Riley)
Edward went out to the car to get the satchel Riley had placed in the trunk and gave it to Riley.
Riley rummaged in it and pulled out the first present for Esme. "Hostess first." He said. Handing the simply wrapped a4 sized present which obviously was a book. "I'm sorry about the wrapping, Mum's the creative one, but I wanted to do this myself."
"Dude, it's just going to be shredded." Said Emm mater-of-factly.
Esme opened her present. Inside was a small glossy paperback book on architecture entitled "Touching the land lightly." By Glen Murcutt.
"He's an Australian architect, has a similar philosophy to you Esme, when I saw it I thought of you." Riley said.
Esme beamed and went over and kissed him on the cheek. "I'll treasure it." She said clutching it to her breast.
Next Riley handed Carlisle his present, again a book. It was on the history of surgery and its evolution from leaches and mercury enemas to today's microsurgery. "I know you have lived most of this, but I thought it might be nostalgic." Riley said.
"Thank you, that was very thoughtful." Said Carlisle with a smile.
Next was Rose, because she would sulk if she was kept waiting any more. It was another book. Entitled "Why women don't get cars." She looked puzzled. "It was a joke present… I knew you had every tool ever invented and I couldn't really afford anything you wanted." He looked ashamed.
Uncharacteristically for Rose she tried to lighten the mood. "It should be good fun." She said… "Thank you."
This brightened Riley a bit. "I thought you might be able to write a book in response titled 'Why male chauvinist's need to learn how to write.' Some of the grammar in that guy's book is pretty ammeter."
Rose smiled. "I just might." She said.
Emm then chimed in. "Riley didn't want me to admit it, but my main present to Rose is effectively from him." He said coming in to save his buddy.
"Emm, we said." Riley shot back annoyed.
"No dude, you know I have stuff all taste when it comes to jewellery. He chose it, I just paid for it… I'll get it." Emm reached under the tree and withdrew a long thin box and handed it to Rose. "Merry Christmas babe from the two of us." Rose was careful not to drop the book, she knew how sensitive Riley was. He seemed to bring out a different side in her. She then unwrapped the box and opened it, it was an immaculate diamond choker with a ring of Ruby's inlayed in the center.
"I said to Emm you have an exquisite neck and this would draw everyone's attention to it. That shade of rubies also match your favorite lipstick" said Riley.
Rose went over and kissed Riley and then turned round so he could fasten it on her. "Hey where's my Kiss?" Said Emm annoyed.
"Writing a cheque takes stuff all thought, even for someone illiterate like you." Rose said bitchily.
"Hey, don't be like that… Fuck."
'Emmett, language." Said Esme.
Rose went to look in the mirror that stood above the fireplace, she loved it. she then went over and gave Emm a peck on the check so he wouldn't sulk all night and ruin everyone's fun.
"Is that all I get." Emm said crest fallen.
"If you're a good boy I might give you a Christmas present later tonight." Rose said with a sly smile. Emm developed a filthy grin.
Next Riley gave Alice her present. It was a thick text book on foreign currency trading and debentures.
"I can remember you were thinking of diversifying the family's portfolio and experimenting with currency hedging… I know it's not exactly a barrel of laughs but I thought you might like it."
Alice raced over to Riley and kissed him on the lips. "It's perfect… Sorry Jaz, it's just you and your right hand tonight… I'm going to be busy."
"Thanks…" said Jasper disappointed.
"Sorry." Said Riley. "He went over to Jasper and whispered, "You know if you use your left it feels like someone else is doing it." There was a snicker from around the room and Riley reddened, he forgot about vampire hearing. "So I have heard, a chief said it on a cooking program when whisking with his left hand…" More laughs… "I never…. Ohhh" he was going to say fuck but thought against it. "Bother."
Edward came to his rescue… "Not that you have actually needed to use either of your hands for the past two months." This resulted in a loud "owwww" from everyone and Riley blushed ever more.
He then pulled out Jasper's present to try and make it up to him. It was a book called "Guns, Germs and Steel." By Jared Diamond. "I noticed that you didn't have it in your library and Edward said you hadn't read it; so, I thought you might like it." said Riley.
Jasper beamed. He had a strange urge to go over and kiss Riley, but resisted it and instead just said "Thank you. I can't wait to read it"
Then it was Emm's present. It was another book the dust jacket said "Philosophy for dummies."
"Hey!" Emm said. Riley couldn't help snickering…
"Sorry, just had to do it… take the dust jacket off…"
Emmett obeyed instructions and it was a book entitled "New age philosophers: A study."
"I noticed you had been reading Proust and so I thought this might be of interest."
"Thanks dude… I was thinking of taking philosophy at college this time so this will be great." Emm said going over and giving Riley a bear hug almost suffocating him in the process accidentally deliberately for revenge.
"Riley's the only person that would think of giving meat head here a book on philosophy." Said Rose bitchily.
"Hey…" said Emm defensively… "You better watch out Rose or I might turn gay like Edward and dump your ass and run off with Riley instead."
"Can't wait." Said Riley with a sly grin.
"humph, your welcome to him… you'll be disappointed though… all that meat yet none where it really counts." She said looking at Emm's groin.
"Hey, that's below the belt." Protested Emm.
"Yeah, because it's not long enough to ever get above it." Rose said with a smirk.
"Could we try and raise this conversation out of the gutter." Esme interjected.
Riley intervened and gave Edward his present. It obviously wasn't a book. It was thin and flat and foolscap size.
Edward couldn't help tying to read Riley's mind to see what it was before he unwrapped it. Riley knew Edward too well so he started thinking of a pictorial karma-sutra. Edward did a double take. And Riley said in his mind 'serves you right for cheating.' He then went on to come up with the most ridiculous ideas to keep Edward guessing, including a signed nude portrait of Mr Masen… that sent shivers down Edward's back and he playfully mouthed 'fucker' to Riley.
"Language." Said Esme. Riley smiled.
Edward finally relented and opened the present. It was sheet music. The title "The score to the film 'the Piano'" by Michael Nyman.
"I can't believe you don't have it." said Riley.
"I don't usually like movie scores." Admitted Edward.
"This is different." Said Riley… "Play it and see… I thought it might inspire you with your composing."
Edward took the music to the piano, Riley went to stand next to him and the score rolled out, the music soaring and sweeping… Riley thought 'When I first heard you play, I thought I had to hear you play this…'
Edward poured his heart into the piece for Riley and was surprised that he was swept up in the music.
When Edward finished everyone sat quietly… Edward looked at Riley… "It's beautiful… thank you." He then leant in to kiss Riley passionately on the lips. Another round of "awww's" escaped everyone's lips.
Finally, when Edward broke the kiss he noticed the clock on the wall read 11:30pm. "It's getting late… I'd better be getting you home… I promised your mother you would be home by midnight." A round of disappointed "Awww's" went up from the other Cullen children.
Riley looked disappointed, but knew there was no arguing with Edward, if he made a promise he would never break it.
"I'm sorry everyone." Riley said… "I hope this doesn't ruin everything."
"No Riley, house rules are important." Carlisle said looking at his brood. "We will just have to wait till tomorrow night to enjoy more of your company. You still will be staying the night?"
"If it's ok with everyone." Said Riley.
A round of "Yes's and "definitly's" rolled around the room and a "Fuck Yeah" from Emm who received a clip round the ear from Esme.
Edward helped Riley get his things.
"Are you sure you don't want to take some Turkey to your mother?" asked Esme.
"Thank you, but Mum has plans and It'll be guts for garters if I break them." He said, Esme smiled thinking what a good boy Riley was and how happy she was that Edward had found him.
Riley said goodbye to each other them giving them a hug; then he stopped at the top of the stairs and hesitated.
"Ummm… I know this is a sensitive subject, and I know Edward is going to talk to you about it when he gets back, but I would like to formally invite you to come to Church tomorrow morning with Mum and Me…" There was deathly silence.
"Thanks you Riley, that's very kind… We will consider it." said Carlisle hedging.
Riley gave a nervous smile and nodded. He then descended the stairs.
….
The drive home was quite, both Edward and Riley lost in their thoughts. Light French impressionist music played softly on the CD.
When they entered forks township Riley broke the silence.
"Can you pull up around the corner from my place?" he asked. Edward read his thoughts, he was thinking his mother would be watching from a window and he wanted to kiss Edward good night.
Edward pulled the car to a halt… the street was a winter wonderland.
"Thank you." Said Riley, in his head he said 'both for tonight, and everything this year.'
"It's been more than a pleasure." Edward said.
Riley took something from his pocket. "I got you another present but I didn't know if you wanted to open it in front of everyone… it's kind of personal, but feel free to show them if you want."
Edward looked bemused.
Riley handed the small parcel to Edward who unwrapped it. It was a small old leather bound King James bible. No doubt from the second hand book shop. Two passages were marked with ribbon. Edward opened the first, there was a passage highlighted in fluorescent yellow, Riley thought the color of Edwards eye's when hit by the sun. It was John Chapter 1 verse 19 "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." He then turned to the second marked page; there another verse was highlighted it was John Chapter 3 Verse 16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, so that whoever beleiveth in him shall not perish, but have eternal life."
Edward looked at Riley. "I thought just in case you needed reminding at times." Riley said with a nervous smile… he knew he was on thin ice with this, it was such a sensitive topic to Edward. Riley wished that Edward could see himself through Riley's eyes… see the beauty of his character… How could God not see this and think it blessed.
Edward smiled. "Thank you… I will show Carlisle when I talk to him about this…" he paused but Riley knew he wasn't finished. "What you are trying to do… even though it is hard for me… Thank you for trying to save my soul."
Riley thought he could say allot of things but thought it best to leave it with Edward.
"I understand you have a lot to talk about with your family… I understand if you can't come to my room tonight… this is more important." Riley said.
Edward looked at him and marveled… Riley was always there before Edward even thought of something. He was so grateful that he said that.
"I'm sorry."
"No, we will have tomorrow night…" Riley tried not to think about Edwards promise. The deal they had made, Riley stops fucking Jacob and Paul and Edward makes Riley his mate. Riley didn't want to pressure Edward. He regretted pushing him now... he had no idea that Christmas would be so involved and emotional. As far as Riley was concerned the deal was off. He knew Edward would take him some time. When he was ready. He could wait for then.
"I made a promise." Said Edward, Riley railed at himself, in his attempt to not think about it, it was exactly what he did. He reached out his hand and cupped Edward's cold cheek, rubbing his thumb over it softly. He didn't know what to say, but he thought so much love towards Edward. Edward lent over and chastely kissed Riley on the lips. Riley melted into it. The kiss deepened; before Riley knew it their hands were all over each other. Stroking caressing. They couldn't get enough. Finally, Riley needed to come up for air.
"You better go, it's nearly midnight." Said Edward pointing to the car clock that said 11:57.
Riley sadly nodded and Edward pulled out and drove round the corner to Riley's house. He waited as Riley got out, waved and then went inside, then drove off to have one of the more difficult discussions of his life.
….
When Edward arrived back at the Cullen house the discussion was already in full swing. Ranging from Emmett's, "Were damned, that's it, we shouldn't worry about it and enjoy ourselves while we can." To Alice's "If there is a chance for redemption we should take it."
Edward walked in and made his presence known by coughing. The discussion dies away.
"Riley gave me this… he knew it was a sensitive subject so didn't want to embarrass me by giving it to me here… he said I could show it to you all." Edward handed the bible to Carlisle who opened and read the familiar passages.
He had spent his youth burning King James bibles as 'papist' and 'heretical'. He then saw their return when he was twenty in the restoration. His father still refused to use them, but the cadence attracted Carlisle artistic side.
He had read it cover to cover probably a hundred times, but for some reason the words had new meaning in them… as if Riley's crude highlighting shone a fresh light on them. He handed the book silently to Esme who read, pondered and passed the book on. Every Cullen read them until finally Emmett had his turn. When he finished he said "Fuck." Esme was so deep in tough she didn't even notice.
Carlisle broke the silence, "I think we should all retire for a few hours and consider this."
They all nodded and broke off; Alice and Jasper together deep in conversation. Rose and Emm in opposite directions, Esme and Carlisle arm in arm, silently contemplating. Edward did what he always did when he needed to think. He sat at the piano and quietly played. He played the music Riley had given him and cleared his mind of anything but music. The answer would come to him by itself.
When Edward played time had no meaning and he was surprise when after what had only seemed like moments the family was assembling again. He looked at the clock and it was 3:30am.
"What have we decided?" asked Carlisle.
"What are your thoughts Carlisle?" asked Jasper.
"I know you all look to me in these maters given my previous vocation, but I am afraid even as a former pastor I was at as much of a loss as you with this…"
"I say do it… If the little dude's right, what have we got to loose, if he's wrong, well it'll make him happy and do us no harm." Said Emm matter-of-factly.
"That's easy to say, some of us have more baggage than others." Said Jasper ashamed. Alice stroked his arm.
"Maybe it would help if Edward told us of his experience." Said Carlisle. Looking encouraging towards Edward.
Edward cleared his throat and collected his thoughts. "I… I was terrified, I was sure the roof would open up and I would be struck down for daring to enter the house of God… That's when Riley held my hand and told me he would stand in front of the fire and brimstone to shield me… That if God wanted me he would have to come through him." Edward had a lump in his throat his voice hoarse and emotional.
There was an intake of breath. Esme had a lump in her throat too. Emm retorted "That's my bro."
Edward continued… "Then I heard the minister speak about why we were celebrating… it seemed to make sense to me. God gave us his son for our sins."
"Afterwards, the minister and Riley tag teamed me… Riley asked 'When you said that God sent Jesus down to forgive our sins… does that mean all our sins? Is there a sin so great; like murder, that God could never forgive?'"
"What did he say?" asked Carlisle curiously.
"He said… 'God is love, Jesus died so we would have that. If you are repentant of your sins, and believe in the love of the Lord, then you could have killed a thousand people and God would forgive you."
"He's an amazing person." Added Edward.
There was silence as they processed this new information. Carlisle finally broke the silence. "So what is our decision?"
"Yes," was all Jasper could say. "Yes," chirped in Alice. "Definitely," said Rose. "Hell yeah," said Emm. "Yes," said Esme."
"Edward?" Asked Carlisle.
"I would walk through fire to see a smile on Riley's face… I guess I always knew I would be going because it would make Riley's Christmas."
"Carlisle, you haven't spoken." said Esme.
"I will go… I want to meet this minister." Said Carlisle.
The mood in the room picked up, the conversation lightened, the women talking about what to wear. Jasper and Emm slinking away to read Riley's presents to them, they knew once the girls were on fashion there would be no Christmas nooky tonight.
Carlisle interrupted. "Before we get distracted we should all hunt… we will be in a small hall full of people, we don't want to tempt fate." All agreed, Jasper with a slightly worried expression on his face.
….
After they had sucked dry several herds of fur bearing creatures, Edward made his apologies and raced back to the house to clean up then headed to Riley's room to tell him the good news.
….
Riley lay there breathing heavily. He was having a dream of Edward and an older him in their own house surrounded by the Cullen's and children running under foot. The enormous Christmas tree was laden with presents; a huge spread was on the table. It was beautiful; Edward didn't want to interrupt so he gently lay besides Riley and listened into the festivities with a big smile on his face.
Towards morning the dreams became darker; teenage Riley was in a church with Edward and the roof began to peel off, a blinding light came in and a loud voice boomed down; it sounded like James Earl Jones… "Edward Cullen, you have broken the 5th commandment and shall be punished…" fire started raining down and Riley pushed Edward out of the way only to be hit by brimstone and flash into flames himself… as the flames consumed him he screamed "I Love you" to Edward…
Riley awoke and sat bolt upright in bed breathing heavily… 'it was just a dream, it was just a dream', running through his head…. Then 'thank God Edward wasn't here to see that'… Riley then realized he was not alone. He looked at Edward siting in the pale glow from the night light a pained expression on his face.
'I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm so sorry.' Riley repeated in his head as he reached over to wipe the creases from Edwards brow.
Finally, when Edward composed himself he whispered… "You can't help what you dream about." But Riley wasn't about to forgive himself… Edward knew he needed to take this mater in hand so he leant over cupped Riley's worried face and kissed him gently on the lips. All thoughts in Riley's head stopped and he melted into it. Finally, when they broke Riley remembered the line from 'Gentlemen Prefer Blonds' "What do you do, put Novocain in your lipstick" Edward chuckled.
Once Riley had collected himself he asked nervously "How did tonight go?"
"Well, were all coming." Said Edward.
"Really!" Riley yelled only to be shushed by Edward. They both sat in silence waiting to hear Mrs Biers stir. Nothing.
Edward smiled at the pleasure this gave Riley. "Yes, unanimous decision."
"Thank you." Riley said and kissed Edward. Who kissed back. They then deepened the kiss. Hands came into the fray; stroking, caressing, then groping. The fact they were on a bed wasn't lost on them and pretty soon Riley was undoing Edward's belt buckle. Edward pulled back…
"What?" asked Riley.
"It's late… you should get your sleep." Said Edward.
"Sleep?" Riley said incredulously,
"Yes, you were up late, you need to be up early today… it the sensible thing to do…"
"Yes, your right… it would be the sensible thing to do." Said Riley sliding back into bed. He was painfully hard and didn't relish the idea of rubbing one out in the shower tomorrow morning, compared to Edwards hand or mouth it was like a finger painting compared with a Rembrandt.
A wicked thought came across his mind. He began thinking about said shower and what he would do to himself… He noticed Edward was getting restless. He then started remembering his hands on Edward's chest, moving lower, over his pelvis, till it reached his manhood. It wrapped around his length, slowly stroking it the way Edward liked, with his thumb stroking the head…
Edward knew Riley's game, and the fact that it worked every time was irrelevant… this time he would hold firm, this time he would be a rod of iron… speaking of iron rods… Edward discreetly adjusted himself to try and stop his zipper bursting as it had on several occasions to his embarrassment.
Riley then thought of his lips kissing down Edward's chest. Licking, sucking and biting his nipples the way Edward liked, while Riley gently, ever so slowly stroked his length. His lips went further down… his tongue teasing Edwards navel… then they reached the promised land. While holding Edward's girth in one hand he licked his shaft from base to tip. Then rolled his tongue around the head playing with the slit, relishing in the juices that were flowing from it. Then he slowly, ever so slowly eased Edward's wood into his mouth, sinking down on it till it was embedded at the back of his throat, all the while his tongue rolled around the shaft.
This was too much, Edward couldn't stand it anymore, he jumped on top of Riley kissing him passionately as he ground his erection into Riley's. Riley didn't need any encouragement and he ground back. Within seconds their tops were history and Riley was unbuckling Edward. He looked down as he freed Edward from his pants. He always loved the sight of Edward's cock bobbing free. It was like unwrapping the world's best Christmas present.
Riley had never seen a dick that big when he first got to this stage... though he had only seen a couple. But Edward's was almost 8 inches long, straight and a decent, almost uniform girth from the slightly thicker base to the tip that was crowned by a large head.
Edward kicked his pants off and returned the compliment for Riley, pulling his pajama pants down.
They returned to rubbing against each other, kissing passionately.
With surprising strength Riley flipped Edward onto his back and began making his imagination real. This time, before he took his head into his mouth he thought… 'this is another Christmas present for you.' Edward's chuckle turned into a groan as Riley took Edward as deep as he could, gaging slightly.
Riley was still practicing taking Edward's full 8 inches all the way without gaging. Edward said it didn't matter, but Riley had seen porn stars do it and he refused to be bettered in anything he did; he was determined to give Edward the best he could give… but for now it would be only 6 inches and a hand around the base.
Riley tried every trick he had seen in the porn films that he had watched courtesy of Emmett's lack of imagination on computer pass words "boobsrfun101" and the Cullen's superfast, super expensive broadband. When Emm finally got round to checked his browsing history the explosion would be herd in Russia.
Soon Edward was grasping Riley's hair and silently groaning. Riley knew it wasn't going to be long so he picked up the pace to Edwards favorite 3/4 rhythm when coming. Neither was disappointed.
Edward quietly groaned "Gonna' cum"; warning Riley as he thought was gentlemanly, rather than taking it for granted he would receive his seed in his mouth. Riley kept going and he was soon rewarded by a mighty explosion of man juice in his mouth and down his throat that made him almost choke, but he swallowed it down and sucked harder to Edward's ecstasy.
Vampires, or at least Edward had a mighty force when he came, before they moved to bow jobs and just wanked, Edward sitting on the sofa in the middle of the room could shoot over his shoulder and hit the wall a couple of meters behind, not to mention the volume of cum they produced; no matter how many times they ejaculated per day.
When Edward had been sucked dry, Riley worked his way up his stomach kissing all the way and then gave him a lazy kiss. Edward was still climbing down from his orgasm. He could never get enough of Riley skillful mouth.
Finally, when the stars disappeared from his vision he responded to Riley and gently rolled Riley onto his back. He wanted to repay his mate.
Being a mind reader had its advantages at times… he knew exactly what turned Riley on the most.
Edward gently worked down Riley's body until he was hovering over his erection, which looked like a smaller version of Edwards. straight and a proportionately decent, almost uniform girth from the slightly thicker base to the tip that was crowned by a large head. The only difference was where Edwards was pale white Riley's was a rich tanned color.
Up until meeting Edward, Riley thought his 6.5 inches was respectable thought not huge (that damned Kinsey report). He was bigger than Jacob and Paul… but they were two years younger than him…
He knew the average was 5.5 inches, but that didn't change how he felt. He sort of hoped that he would get that last mythical growth spurt at 17 and hit 6 feet tall and get an 8-inch cock… Edward told him it didn't matter but Riley wished he had more to offer Edward.
"I love your penis." Edward whispered hearing what was running through Riley's mind. Riley knew Edward was the best person in the world, he would never say if he was disappointed…
He also knew that when the time came he would be bottoming so it really didn't matter anyway.
He guessed given the difference in their endowment he would be bottoming for the rest of his life… but he preferred to bottom anyway so what was to complain about.
Edward smiled. He hoped Riley would grow out of this… He guessed only being able to see the pleasure he gave Edward with his cock would solve it… but Edward wasn't ready for that yet.
He set to work on Riley's cock. He liked the head of it eliciting a groan from Riley. Riley hardly ever produced precum, which he was worried about, as all teenage boys are about being different. Edward had assured him that medically it didn't matter and certainly it didn't effect sexual performance.
Edward had never known someone to worry so much about these things, but then again he had never been near a teenage boy in these kind of circumstances.
Edward decided to wipe all such thoughts out of Riley's head and so in one quick movement he took Riley's shaft into his mouth right to the base. Vampires had no gag reflex so it was no problem.
Riley bit his fist to stop himself crying out… from now on all he thought about was how Edward made him feel; which was more than amazing.
Edward then started sucking and licking. One of the benefits of being a vampire was the amazing speed he could give head at. He always started off slow and gentle then worked up till Riley was a quivering mass on the bed.
Riley hand's knotted into Edward's disheveled hair. He had to bite his lip so he didn't cry out. Finally, he thought 'Gonna cum' and Edward moved even faster. Riley exploded in Edward's mouth. Edward sucked him dry then came up and kissed the blissed out Riley.
They then snuggled together and Riley said "Happy Christmas Edward."
Edward responded to the Francophile in Riley "Joyeux Noel Riley" then Riley fell asleep dreaming of Edward with a contented smile on his face...
….