Twilight on the Prairie

by ilovealion

This one-shot was inspired by the pictures taken of RPattz during the filming of Water for Elephants. Farmward looked so hot in his "period attire" that I was inspired to put him on the Prairie with Bella. E&B friends to lovers...

2. Honeymoon on the Prairie

I wrote this for the Fandom4ME fundraiser in January. I hope you enjoy.

Acknowledgments: Thanks so much to my good friend Cared who served as beta for this story AND made the wonderful banner. She's the main reason I got this thing submitted at all! You always have my back, Viggo. I appreciate you more than you know.

Banner Link: .

Warning/Disclaimer: All Twilight characters are the property of Stephenie Meyer. I just plopped them down on the prairie.

Summary: This is a continuation of my one-shot called Twilight on the Prairie - It picks up after Edward proposed and extends through their marriage consummation.

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This story is dedicated to Lisette and her brave daughter Caitlin.

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Honeymoon on the Prairie

The weeks following Edward's proposal were filled with well-wishes and congratulations from most of the local folk. It seemed that our nuptials were the talk of the town, and Pa's house was suddenly a thoroughfare of traffic—primarily female.

With Ma's absence, the local ladies took it upon themselves to school me in all things matrimonial. They realized that Pa and Emmett weren't going to be of any help with wedding plans and the like, so I was thankful for the fine women of Forks and their constant encouragement.

While I appreciated their support, I had a hard time faring under their scrutiny and continuous nuptial questions of who, what, when, and where. It was overwhelming and scary—two emotions that I did not want associated with what was supposed to be the happiest time of my life.

Finally, after much discussion amongst our families, Edward and I decided to have a small ceremony during his Christmas break from college. While I hated that we would be separated for several months before the wedding because of his to return to school, I was ecstatic to know that those weeks would be the last we would have to spend apart.

XXX

A couple of weeks before Edward was scheduled to leave for the university, I found myself in Hale's Mercantile to order supplies for the farm. Even though my days—and nights—were filled with thoughts of becoming Edward's bride, I still had responsibilities at home that had to take precedent until that blessed day arrived. As I made my way down the aisle, I heard the sweet voice of Rosalie Hale call out from behind the counter.

"Good afternoon, Isabella. Can I help you with anything?"

Rosalie was a year older than I and totally smitten with my brother, Emmett. Truth be told, the feeling was mutual. Even though they were not an "official" couple, we all figured that they would end up together. Why they pussy-footed around each other was a mystery to us all. When I asked Emmett about it once, he said that he had too many responsibilities around the homestead to commit to a relationship, but I didn't miss the way his ears turned bright red at the mention of her name.

"Thanks, Rose, but no. I'm just here to pick up some things for the farm," I replied with a smile.

"Oh!" she exclaimed. "Let me show you something that just came in. It's beautiful and you might be able to use it for the wedding."

Before I could stop her, she disappeared through the curtain, heading toward the stock room. I had no idea what she was rushing off to retrieve, so I continued my perusal of the bolts of fabric with a smile of anticipation, my interest piqued.

Moments later, I was pulled from my happy thoughts by a distinctly feminine throat clearing behind me.

"Well, well, well, if it isn't the future Mrs. Edward Masen in the flesh. I was beginning to wonder if you'd gone into hiding or something."

I turned around to see Jessica Stanley looking down on me with a scowl marring her pretty face. She was standing tall, dressed in her Sunday's finest, with her arms crossed in an obvious stance of superiority. It was no secret that she'd pined for Edward since we were all little girls in pigtails playing in the school yard. Even though she could've had any other boy in the county, she always had her cap set for Edward. I don't think she ever considered the fact that her love for him would go unrequited.

"Um… hello, Jessica," I said quietly as she glared at me. "It's nice to see you again."

Ignoring my pleasant reply, she continued in a bitter tone. "So, what are you shopping for today? Items for this precious wedding I've heard so much about or brown sack cloth for another farm dress?" She eyed me up and down with a sneer.

I didn't know how to respond to her ascorbic words, and thankfully, I didn't have to.

"Shut your jealous mouth, Jessica," Rosalie called out from behind the curtain moments before she emerged with a pristine, white box in her hands. "Bella won't lower herself to your standard, but I don't have a problem calling you out."

The two beauties squared off on either side of me with daggers for one another. With a "hmpf," Jessica rolled her eyes and turned toward the housewares, leaving Rosalie and I to the treasure she held in her hands.

"This just came in yesterday," Rosalie said with delight as she turned her attention back to me and set the box down on the table. "You might be able to use it in your wedding dress and veil." She lifted the lid to reveal a beautiful piece of ivory lace nestled in the silk-lined box. I gasped when she lifted the delicate length reverently to reveal the intricate detail and exquisitely scalloped edges. "Isn't it divine?"

It truly was a lovely piece, but I knew that I wouldn't be able to use it. For one thing, it was far beyond my budget. I didn't even have to ask the price to know that I couldn't afford such a luxurious item. Secondly, and more importantly, I wouldn't need it for a wedding dress since I planned to wear my ma's.

Not long after Ma had died, Pa moved her chest to my room so that I would have access to her garments and personal items. He said Ma would've wanted me to have her things and it would bring him joy to see me use them. When I found her trousseau, I resolved to wear her dress when—or if—I were to marry. Little did I know at the time that I would be marrying Edward Masen, my brother's best friend and the love of my life.

As my gaze traveled from the box to Rosalie's expectant face, a twinge of panic began to rise.

What if they ordered this with the hope that I would buy it?

"So?" Rosalie asked with baited breath. "What do you think?"

I gulped and tried to swallow the fullness that had quickly developed in my throat before I answered, "Oh, Rosalie, it's a beautiful piece. I-I would love to use it, but I've already decided to wear my ma's dress and veil for the ceremony." Her face fell slightly as I continued, "I mean, I would love to use it for something, but I'm not sure—"

Before I could complete my thought, Jessica's hateful voice rang out from a couple of aisles over. She had obviously been eavesdropping. "Well, it sounds like you have the 'something old' covered."

My eyes immediately began to well with tears at her venomous words. How dare she be so callous in her reference to my ma's dress? I choked back a sob and prepared to unleash my weepy fury on her when someone else spoke up.

I hadn't heard Mrs. Hale step out from the back room, but she made her presence know as she reprimanded with authority, "Jessica Stanley, you should be ashamed of yourself uttering such coarse words. I think you need to go home, fall to your knees, and pray hard for your bitterness to be lifted."

Rosalie and I turned to look at Jessica who was shocked by the scolding she had received. Her mouth stood agape for a few seconds before she tried to play it off. "Oh, I was just kidding around, right Bella?" she asked with so much mock sweetness that it made me physically ill. I didn't answer before she turned to Rosalie's mom and said, "Oh, Mrs. Hale, I was just going to inquire about purchasing the fine lace Rosalie was showing Bella… you know, since she doesn't want it."

I couldn't see Jessica's face, but I could just picture her batting her eyelashes and turning on the charm.

"Well, that item is no longer for sale," Mrs. Hale huffed and turned her attention to Rosalie. "Please package that back up, dear, and take it to your father's office. We won't be keeping it on the floor for general display."

My panic surged again as Mrs. Hale sounded upset that the finery wouldn't be purchased, but her quick wink my way alleviated those fears. It was obvious that she simply didn't want Jessica to have it.

After Jessica left the store, grumbling with every step, Mrs. Hale approached me and embraced me with a motherly hug. "Don't worry about her, child. She's just beside herself with envy." I nodded with a small smile before she continued, "And, I think it is a lovely thing to wear your mother's dress on your special day. She'll be tickled pink when she looks down and sees you walking the aisle in her gown."

I appreciated her kind words and the way she just accepted the fact that my ma would be a part of our wedding ceremony in spirit. Ever since Ma's death, I'd comforted myself by picturing her watching over me, protecting me in death as she had in life. It was nice to have my thoughts, ever how fantastic, affirmed.

XXX

I made it home just in time to see the men coming in from the fields. I didn't have to look hard to recognize my Edward. Even though they were all covered in dust and grime that made them appear to be a dull, uniform brown, I could pick him out by his languid steps and ever present smile.

He was beautiful.

As the farm hands walked through the gate leading from the pasture, I couldn't take my eyes off of the man to whom I was betrothed. I was standing at the bottom step gawking when he caught my eye and gave me a shy smile. Even though he was by far the most attractive man in our town, he didn't acknowledge that fact. He was completely humble about his good looks, which made him even more appealing.

Truth be known, the very sight of him made my body respond in ways that I never imagined possible. My heart rate would increase, my bosom would swell, and my womanhood would tingle in a delightful—yet maddening—way whenever he was near. I was truly ready to experience the joys of coupling with him as soon as I became his wife.

As my mind drifted to impure thoughts, I watched the men veer toward the shed to put away their tools. Edward was carrying a bracket across his strong, broad shoulders and I could see his muscles bulging from the strain of the load. I couldn't stop myself from picturing his naked torso and imagining his rigid muscles as he hovered above me in our marriage bed. The tingling at the apex of my thighs intensified as I let my mind drift further south to consider his manhood.

I'd seen Edward naked many times in our younger years. After all, we were like siblings, so changing in front of one another after a dip in the river was common place. Even though we were modest in our disrobing, it was inevitable that we would catch a glimpse of one other at some point. Back then, the glances were completely innocent—brought on by curiosity rather than desire. As the years progressed and certain areas began to "fill out," however, we became more cautious when we had to remove our clothes.

Ma eventually put a stop to our communal swims when my monthly cycle started. She said that it was no longer appropriate for us to do such things. I didn't understand at the time; I thought of it as punishment because it was taking me away from the fun. Alice refused to swim in the "dirty river water," so I was left to swim alone most of the time.

Looking back on those days, I now understood why Ma was so concerned. As a youngster, I'd never looked at Edward like that, but if I had seen him in a state of undress after my hormones started raging, there may have been problems.

My ma was a smart woman.

I could feel a blush stain my cheek as I imagined seeing him as a naked man for the first time. I'd never seen an erect thing before, but I'd felt a bulge in Edwards pants on more than one occasion when we were kissing or cuddling. From what I could feel, it was big. Even though I was naïve where sex was concerned, I knew what would happen on our marriage night… or at least I thought I knew. I grew up on a farm, so I'd seen animals coupling before. I didn't think intercourse between a man and a woman would be exactly like that, but I knew where the parts fit together.

I was ready.

"What's got you blushing like a ripe peach, beautiful?" I heard Edward ask as he came to stand in front of me. "You look like you're lost in thought."

Where'd he come from? I didn't even hear him approach.

I felt my flush deepen as I took in his deliciously dirty form. He was covered in dust and sweat and his manly smell filled the air between us. As embarrassment flooded my system—and moisture from my arousal flooded my undergarments—I sucked my bottom lip between my teeth and averted my eyes. I didn't want him to see the lust that I'm sure was apparent on my face.

He gently touched my arm and asked with concern, "What's wrong, Bella? Are you okay?"

I'm more than okay, Edward.

I took a cleansing breath before answering, "Nothing's wrong. I was just… thinking."

"Well, I hope you were thinking about me," he chuckled before placing a chaste kiss on my forehead.

When I was finally able to meet his emerald eyes, I answered, "Always, Edward."

I could feel my pulse quicken as I watched his expression change from lighthearted frivolity to something else entirely. His eyes darkened as my words and actions finally registered; he knew I was having naughty thoughts.

"Bella," he hissed through clenched teeth, "don't tempt me. We're standing in your pa's front yard, and when you look at me like that, I want to kiss your face off."

I looked down, feeling remorse for my conduct, and caught site of the fullness in the front of his pants. Even though I knew it was wrong, I wanted nothing more than to reach out and touch him.

"I'm sorry, Edward," I whispered after closing my eyes. "I didn't mean to—"

He interrupted me by placing his fingers under my chin and pulling my head up so I would look at him. "Don't ever apologize for having feelings for me… I just… I really want to do right by you. When I see that look on your face, the blush staining your cheeks, and your plump lip pulled between your teeth, I want to… rush into things that just wouldn't be proper."

I nodded in understanding before he grabbed my hand and kissed my knuckles. As his lips lingered, his index finger rubbed back and forth against my palm in a slow, methodic rhythm that made my desire surge once again. A soft moan escaped my lips as the sensation of his cool breath across the back of my hand sent a fine shiver along every nerve in my body. I could feel him smile against my skin, enjoying my reaction to his touch.

With one more, soft kiss—and a tickle to my palm—he released my hand and leaned against the rail. "I better get going, sweetness," he said with a wink. "My mother's expecting me for dinner."

What? You're leaving me already?

"Um… okay," I replied, my disappointment evident.

He glanced around quickly before stepping forward, pulling my body flush against his, and capturing my lips. The kiss was short, but firm and full of passion. With a gentle bite to my lower lip, he ended the kiss and whispered, "Soon, Bella. Very soon we'll be able to be together all the time… in every way possible."

I nodded in understanding before he touched my face reverently and walked away.

XXX

The next few days passed entirely too quickly, and before I even had a chance to fully grasp that I was getting married in a few months, my Edward was leaving for college—again.

Edward's adoptive parents, the Cullen's, had a dinner party for him on his last night in Forks and most of the town attended. When the festivities were over, Pa ushered me home after a very public—and tearful on my part—goodbye between Edward and me. I was sorely disappointed that we weren't able to have a single moment in private before he left; circumstances beyond our control had prevented that from happening.

When Pa, Emmett, and I arrived home, I was beside myself with sadness. After I washed up and got ready for bed, I realized that sleep was not going to find me in my current state.

I needed to find my solace.

After I was sure Pa was sound asleep, I snuck down the stairs and found my way to the barn. The moon was full and the light that shone through the horse stalls allowed me to find the ladder to the hay loft without difficulty. Just the smell of the hay and the quiet whiney of the horses were enough to ease my mind as I made my way up the ladder and across the landing to my favorite spot. After I pushed the hay door open to allow the moonlight to stream into my retreat, a creak of the floorboard behind me brought a scream to my lips. A hand clasped over my mouth before any sound was released and a strong arm wrapped around my waist to keep me from bolting.

"Shh, Bella. It's just me," I heard Edward whisper in my ear as the fright still surged through my body, making me flail. "Calm down, sweetness. I didn't mean to scare you."

I stomped down on his boot with my bare feet and wiggled free from his grasp before turning on him with ire. "You didn't mean to scare me?" I hissed as I held my fist against my pounding heart. "Well, what did you expect, sneaking up here in the middle of the night and lying in wait? Why didn't you tell me you were coming?" I all but screamed.

He held his hands up in a sign of surrender. "I didn't know if I could get away, so I didn't want to say anything beforehand. Besides, I didn't even know if you'd come up here tonight… I hoped, but I didn't know for sure."

Just like after my ma died, Edward knew where to find me when I was upset. He knew the barn was my refuge during my times of stress or despair.

I relaxed my stance a little and unclenched my fists as he took a tentative step toward me. The light was shining from behind me, illuminating his face in a way that was almost angelic.

How can I stay mad at him when he's only here to comfort me and give me a private goodbye?

"I guess you're right. It's not like you could sneak in my window and tell me you were waiting for me in the loft."

"Yeah, and your pa would have a conniption if he knew I was out here right now," he said with a dark chuckle before he averted his eyes.

I looked at him with confusion, wondering why he was acting odd and standing so far away. I'd all but said, "You're forgiven."

When he turned back to me, I watched his eyes travel down my body slowly and linger at my feet. He raised his hand and pinched the bridge of his nose before letting out a long, suffering sigh.

What in the world is going on?

I took a couple of steps toward him as I apologized, "Edward, I'm sorry I stomped on your foot and yelled. I was just startled."

He continued to stare at the floor. "It's not your fault, Bella. I-I shouldn't have come here unannounced. I think this was a mistake," he replied while shaking his head.

My heart clinched in my chest and tears sprang to my eyes. "W-Why would you say that?" I asked with watery words.

My tears must've broken through whatever emotion he was feeling because his panicked eyes shot up to mine in an instant. With two long strides, he was in front of me and pulling me into his arms. "Please, don't cry. I misspoke… I'm not thinking clearly at the moment." As he ran one hand through my hair and the other down my back, he moaned softly into my neck and tried to explain. "It's just… you're… I mean…"

I'd never heard Edward stumble over his words in such a way. Whatever was bothering him must have been very disturbing.

"Please, Edward. Just tell me," I begged as his grip in my hair tightened. Even though the pull was a little uncomfortable, his forcefulness made me tingle with desire.

He leaned down and brushed his lips against my throat before making a trail of gentle nips and kisses up to my ear. The feeling that surged through my body from his rough and tender ministrations was like nothing I'd ever felt.

As I began to melt into his arms, he growled in my ear with pure desire. "Bella, you're standing in the moonlight with nothing on but a thin, summer nightgown… I could… I can see you, baby."

I gasped in surprise when I realized what he was saying; he could see me… all of me. Had I known that he was coming tonight, I would have at least put on a pair of pantaloons, but as it were, I was completely bare beneath my gown. The heat of the summer and balmy nights made sleeping in "less" a necessity.

He pulled back from my ear, panting. "Please don't be ashamed, Bella. You are truly beautiful… so beautiful that I'm afraid I need to say goodnight now before things get out of hand."

After a lingering kiss to my forehead, he meant to step away from me, but I stopped him.

"Please, Edward. Don't go," I pleaded as I looked into his dark, lust-filled eyes and ran my hands roughly through his hair. I remembered what happened a few moments ago when he pulled my hair, so I wanted to see if I could produce the same effect in him. "Just stay with me for a little while," I demanded before pressing my body to his and kissing along his Adam's apple and neck.

How could I have known that I was playing with a scorching fire?

Before I could even register what was happening, I was on my back in the hay with Edward on top of me. His mouth was hot and wet and probing as he attacked me with unbridled vigor. The searing heat between us made me pop out in a cold sweat as Edward's hand traveled up and down my side with fervor.

I wanted him to touch me. Touch my breasts. Touch my backside. Touch my privates.

I arched my back like a wanton hussy and pressed my breasts into his chest as we both started choking out erratic breaths and guttural moans. His manhood was rigid against my thigh, but I wanted to feel it rub me in the sweet spot between my legs. A moment later, I parted my knees and let him settle between them. I craved to feel his covered length against my most intimate space. With a slight shift of my pelvis, I was finally able to get the friction I so desperately needed. When a cry of sheer pleasure escaped my lips, Edward froze. With one hand tangled in my hair and the other firmly gripping my backside, he stopped all movement and dropped his forehead to mine.

I listened to his whimpering breaths for a moment before I squeaked out his name. "Edward? Edward, what's wrong?"

He lifted his head and opened his glassy eyes to mine before he slid his lower hand off my hip and cupped my cheek with the other. "Bella, I love you so much. I'm sorry for putting you in this position."

What? This is where I want to be.

He must have realized that his erection was still pressed firmly between my legs because he pulled his hips away from me and rolled over to my side. As he lay there on his back with his forearm covering his eyes, I couldn't stop my eyes from roaming to the area below his belt. I'd just felt his manhood rubbing against me and I desperately wanted to see the outline of it through his pants. As I sat up and adjusted my gown, I looked down at Edward's god-like form and gasped. His pants were tented up in such a way that I couldn't really tell anything about his member except it was long. I continued to stare until Edward cleared his throat.

"What are you doing, Bella?" he asked with a hint of irritation.

I quickly averted my gaze from his tent to his face and stared at him with wide eyes. "Um… I was just… well, I wanted to know—"

He sat up swiftly and placed his left hand over my eyes so I couldn't see what he was doing. I heard his boots scrape against the floor and the rattle of his belt before he lowered his hand and said, "Well, at least I don't feel so bad for ogling you… since you were just doing the same."

The blush crept up my cheeks as he turned to me and gently cradled my face. "Don't be embarrassed, sweetness. I promise, the moment we're married, you can explore my body all you want. Do you have any idea how hard it is for me to wait until our wedding night… especially now?"

I nodded at him because I felt the same way. At the moment, I wished we could just elope and start our new life together tomorrow.

Tomorrow.

Edward will be gone tomorrow.

"Bella, I really need to go before we do something that we'll both sorely regret," he said with emotion before leaning in for a chaste kiss. "I will miss you so much, and I'll think of you constantly while I'm away. And, just think, the next time we see each other, we'll only have a few days until we're married."

I smiled at him and added, "I'll be counting the days until I'm yours, Edward Masen."

XXX

I dreaded having to spend the next four months away from Edward, but I was resolved to keep busy so the time would pass quickly… at least that was what I'd hoped for. As it turned out, I needn't have worried because the time literally flew by. With wedding planning and preparations for my move east, I almost needed more time to be fully prepared.

It was with a heavy heart that I began packing up some of my personal belongings at Pa's house. In a way, I felt like I was abandoning him. He assured me otherwise and even pointed out that our widowed neighbor, Sue Clearwater, was more than happy to help out at the homestead. Since her husband Harry died, Pa'd been renting his crop land, so it made complete sense for them to join forces, so to speak.

The day that Edward was due to arrive, I was fit to be tied. My sleepless nights of late were finally taking their toll, and, according to Emmett, I was as ornery as a bear.

I couldn't argue with him. It was true.

Since it was still several hours before Edward was expected, Emmett finally convinced me to take a hot toddy and try to get some sleep. He reasoned that I would need to be well rested when my fiancé arrived. Plus the next few days were going to be very busy with the wedding.

"And the honeymoon," I thought to myself.

I had to agree with his logic, so I conceded.

Not long after taking a few sips of the elixir, I drifted off into a glorious sleep. My dreams were filled with images of Edward on our wedding day… and our wedding night. He looked surreal as he stood at the end of the aisle waiting for me, and he looked downright sinful as he hovered over my naked body and took me as his wife.

The dreams were so vivid and pleasurable that I never wanted to wake up.

My eyes were still heavy when I heard an angel's voice at my ear. "Good morning, Bella."

Am I still dreaming?

I was foggy and disoriented at first, but when sweet words were whispered again and the tickle of his delicious breath sent chills through my body, I began to rouse.

"Don't you wanna marry me, sweetness? I've been waiting for you to wake up since I arrived yesterday." I felt his lips graze my cheek as he continued. "I'm beginning to think you've developed cold feet. We learned about that condition in medical school last month," he said with mirth in his voice.

I desperately wanted to open my eyes and see his smiling face, but it felt like they were glued shut. I started moving my fingers and twitching my toes to initiate the wake-up process as his velvety voice continued to coax me from my slumber.

"Ah, I see movement. Does that mean you're finally waking up?" he cooed as he rubbed my forearm softly.

I'm trying to wake up... believe me!

My senses were overwhelmed with the sound and smell and touch of Edward, but I had yet to see him. And, I needed to see him, to prove that he was really there… in the flesh.

I've missed him so much.

When my eyes finally fluttered open, they were met with sparkling, emerald green eyes and a crooked grin that made me melt.

He was even more beautiful than I remembered—if that's possible.

"Rise and shine, sleepy head," he said as he sat down on the bed beside me and winked.

Before he could utter another word, I sat up abruptly and flung my arms around his neck. The quick movement made me a little lightheaded, but I didn't care. His strong arms went around me immediately to stabilize and secure me to his chest.

"Oh, Edward," I gushed into his neck. "I've missed you so very much." Tears of joy sprang up in my eyes as the relief of finally being with him overwhelmed me.

He squeezed me tightly and ran his nose through my tangled hair before he responded, "Sweetness, I've missed you, too. It took every ounce of restraint I possess to let you sleep all this time. Your pa practically threw me out of the house last night because I didn't want to leave until you woke up."

Wait… what?

I pulled back and gave him a questioning look. "What are you talking about?"

"Bella, you've been asleep since noon yesterday." He reached up to brush the tears from my cheeks before he continued, "Either you were truly exhausted or that elixir Emmett gave you was way too strong. I was actually starting to get a little worried about you."

I sat back on the bed and looked around the room in disbelief before asking, "So, what is today? What time is it?"

"It's Thursday morning… around eight o'clock."

My mouth dropped open as I gaped at Edward. "So, you've been waiting for me to wake up since five o'clock yesterday afternoon?"

"Actually, no," he said with a lopsided grin. "My coach came in early, so I've been in Forks since two o'clock yesterday."

I covered my face with my hands and shook my head as I mumbled, "Oh my goodness. I'm so sorry."

He pulled my hands from my face, so I lowered my head to look at my lap, embarrassment overcoming me.

"There's nothing to be sorry for; you obviously needed the rest," he said thoughtfully.

After a moment, I peeked up at him through a curtain of hair and saw a smirk on his face.

What's he grinning at?

As I lifted my head and gave him a pointed look, he started chuckling outright and a blush spread across his cheeks.

"What's so funny, Mr. Masen?" I asked with a raised brow.

It took a moment for him to contain his laughter before he answered, "Um… did you know that you talk in your sleep?"

The twinkle in his eye as he asked the question let me know that I'd probably said something completely inappropriate during my extended nap. Considering my vivid dreams of naked Edward, I could only imagine what I'd said.

I groaned in mortification and flopped back on the bed, pulling the pillow over my face to hide.

A moment later, I felt him shift on the bed and snatch the pillow from my clutches. I clenched my eyes shut and tried to figure my way out of this mess. If only I knew exactly what I'd said, I could try to explain it away.

"Stop trying to hide from me, Bella," he growled in a playful tone before he grabbed my wrists and held them down on either side of my head. I could feel his sweet breath hitting my face as I lay there with my eyes closed.

He was close… very close.

I took a deep breath, pulling his scent into my lungs, and finally opened my eyes. He was hovering mere inches above me, his desire for me evident.

"You're going to be my wife, so there's no room for shame when it comes to you and me," he whispered. I nodded in acknowledgement before he continued, "You moaned my name in your sleep, Bella, and it was the most erotic thing I've ever heard." His lustful eyes bore into mine as he licked his lips and tightened his grip on my wrists. "All I could do was sit here and imagine what I was doing to you in your dream to make you respond like that. I'm not ashamed to say that I had to leave for a little while and… get some relief."

I could feel my blush intensify as I considered what he meant.

Did he leave so that he could touch himself?

He quirked his brow and nodded. "That's right, Ms. Swan. You drive me crazy with want for you."

With the words barely out of his mouth, his lips crashed into mine with a fervent kiss. I worried momentarily about the state of my breath, but when his tongue pushed between my lips and began to explore my mouth, all worries of hygiene were lost. As we melded together in the most passionate kiss we'd ever shared, he released my wrists one by one and pulled me up into a seated position. I ran my fingers through his glorious hair and rose up onto my knees, never breaking our kiss. He scooted back a little on the bed, so I boldly straddled his lap and pressed my body flush against his.

I'd never been so brazen before, but he'd just told me that there was no room for shame between us… and I needed this. I needed to feel his hard muscles under my hands and his rigid length between my legs. I'd fantasized about this so many times before that I wanted to experience in reality.

I couldn't stop myself as I ground down on his manhood and moaned into his mouth. Almost immediately, his hands shifted to my backside and pushed down as his hips thrust up into me. The tingling between my legs erupted into a lightning storm of sensations that begged for heat and friction. I started wiggling in his lap to relieve my need, but his hands suddenly froze on my bottom as he broke our kiss.

No. No. No.

With a grunt of frustration, he looked up at the ceiling and tightened his grip on my hips to stop my squirming.

Why does he have to be so controlled?

I decided to see if I could push his boundaries a little, so I leaned forward, kissing along his neck and jaw, before panting his name. "Edward." Taking his ear lobe between my teeth, I ran my hands slowly down his chest, lingering over the areas that covered his nipples.

As a low hiss escaped his lips, his hands shot up and grabbed my wrists to stop my progression down the front of his body. He lowered his eyes to meet mine before he growled, "You're gonna be the death of me, Ms. Swan."

With panting breath and a coy smile, I clarified. "Well, I'll be Mrs. Masen in two days."

"And, you better be ready," he replied with a dark chuckle as he thrust his length into me once more. "You better be ready."

XXX

The rest of Thursday and Friday were busy with wedding preparations. The ceremony was scheduled for Saturday at eleven in the morning with Reverend Weber officiating. Even though we were having a small private wedding at our church, Esme Cullen, Alice, Mrs. Hale, and Rosalie had planned a massive lunch-style reception for after the service. From what I could gather, they'd basically invited the entire town. While their efforts were appreciated, I was nervous about the sheer magnitude of what they had planned. I kept telling myself that it'd all be worth it at the end of the day because I'd be Edward's wife.

Dr. and Mrs. Edward Masen.

Mrs. Edward Anthony Masen.

Mrs. Isabella Masen.

Bella Masen.

I liked the sound of my soon-to-be designation and was proud to be taking the surname of such a fine man. At times, I still had to pinch myself to prove that it was all real. I was really marrying Edward Masen.

He'd chosen me.

Me, Isabella Swan, the town's most notorious tom-boy who once climbed the churchyard's massive oak tree in her Sunday dress because a cat was stuck on a branch.

Me, Isabella Swan, the freckle-faced, snaggle-toothed girl who preferred baiting a hook to batting her eyelashes or combing her hair.

Me, Isabella Swan, the awkward farm girl whose heart was broken by the untimely death of her mother and was mended by the love of her older brother's best friend.

He chose me.

I'd had to repeat that mantra over and over in my head as I heard snide remarks from Jessica and Lauren during the months that Edward was away. I knew they were just jealous, but their blatant viciousness still hurt. They'd even alluded to the fact that Edward was ashamed to marry me and that's why the ceremony was limited to only family and close friends. I had no idea if the post-wedding shindig that Esme concocted soon after their hateful comments were made public was just a coincidence, but it shut down their disgraceful rumor mill pretty quickly.

Hateful heifers.

Esme stood by my side through every decision, dress fitting, crying spell, and moment of self-doubt. She assured me that her son's love for me was genuine and long-lasting. In my heart, I already knew that to be true, but it was nice to hear it reiterated by someone else.

Now, after months of preparations, we were adding the final touches to the bows and flowers in the church. Esme, Mrs. Hale, Alice, Rose and I had enjoyed friendship and fellowship throughout the afternoon as we decorated the sanctuary, but thankfully, we were finally winding down.

"So, are you ready for your big day tomorrow, sis?" Alice asked with a wink.

I returned her smile as I straightened a bow. "You can't officially call me sis until tomorrow," I replied with a small chuckle.

She glided across the floor like a ballerina and engulfed me in a hug. "I've always considered you to be my sister. We were destined to be more than best friends."

I returned her embrace and nodded as tears formed in my eyes. "Of course, Alice, I'm so happy that we'll be family."

Esme and Mrs. Hale exchanged a knowing look after Rosalie added, "I hope we'll all be family someday."

Alice and I pulled her into our little circle-of-sisterhood as Mrs. Hale commented, "Don't worry, Rosalie, dear. That boy may surprise you, yet."

I knew first-hand that Emmett had finally made the decision to court Rosalie. He'd made his intentions known to Mr. and Mrs. Hale, but he wanted to wait until after our wedding to initiate anything. I had to bite my tongue to keep my mouth shut because I didn't want to ruin Emmett's plans.

"Who knows," Mrs. Hale continued, "we may be planning a double wedding next summer if my son comes to his senses and puts a ring on this young lady's finger." She stepped behind Alice and squeezed her shoulder with affection.

Alice blushed as she replied, "I'm not in any hurry, Mrs. Hale. Jasper and I are doing just fine… for now." She giggled and nudged me in the ribs with her elbow because I knew her secret. She and Jasper planned to announce their engagement very soon.

As I looked at the ladies around me and realized that we would be family someday, I choked back tears. Even though my ma couldn't be here with me, I felt like she played some role in placing these wonderful women in my life. I was truly thankful for her and for them.

After we finished up in the church, Rosalie asked me to come with her to the mercantile before I headed home. I obliged, and soon we were stealing up the stairs to her room in what seemed like a top secret mission.

"What's going on Rosalie? You nearly pulled my arm off to get me up here."

A devious grin spread across her face as she pulled a box out from under her bed. "I made something for you… for your wedding night." After she set it down, she nodded for me to open it.

Her smile was luminous as I pulled off the top of the box and stared down at a pure white nightgown trimmed in fine lace. As I studied the delicate piece, I recognized the lace and gasped. "Oh my goodness, Rosalie. Is this the lace you showed me this summer?"

"Yes, it is," she said with a satisfied nod. "Well… um… someone came in to buy the piece, but I only sold them a portion of it because I really wanted you to have it, Bella."

I lifted the gown from the box and realized that it was a little more "fitted" than a typical gown. It also had three ties in the front instead of one… and when they were all undone, the gown would be open almost to my navel.

A blush spread across my cheeks as I pictured Edward untying me like a present.

"Ahh, someone's having naughty thoughts," Rosalie said with a chuckle. "That's exactly the kind of reaction I wanted to see."

I folded the beautiful gown and placed it gingerly back in the box before I grabbed Rosalie and pulled her into a hug. "Thank you so much. I absolutely love it."

She released me and winked, "Yeah, and Edward's gonna love it, too."

"I think you're right," I replied with a twinkle in my eye. "I can't wait to see his reaction."

XXX

When I finally made it home, Edward was sitting on the porch with Pa and Emmett.

"It's about time you made it home, baby girl," Pa said. "We were about to send out a search party. This boy over here was gettin' nervous that you'd taken off." Pa chuckled at his own joke before taking a drag from his pipe. "Emmett, how 'bout you and me walk over to the barn and lock it up while these two say their goodnights. They won't be seeing each other again until it's hitchin' time." He gave Edward and me a pointed look as if to say, "That's right. No late night rendezvous in the loft tonight."

I guess we weren't as sneaky as we thought.

As the silhouettes of my pa and brother disappeared into the darkness, I walked over and placed the box from Rosalie on the swing before sitting down by Edward on the steps. After a moment, he asked, "So, sweetness, are you ready for tomorrow?"

I leaned my head on his shoulder and nodded. "Of course, I am. How 'bout you?"

He slipped his hand around my waist and pulled me close. "I've been ready for a long time."

I tried unsuccessfully to stifle a yawn, so he added with a chuckle, "Oh, I see. I'm boring you already, huh?"

"Never, Mr. Masen," I replied as my yawn subsided. "I'm just tired. It's hard work gettin' married to you." I giggled softly and poked him in the ribs with my finger. "Plus, I wanna be good and rested for all the festivities tomorrow."

"Well, I hope I'm worth all the trouble," he said through an obviously forced laugh.

What?

It seemed that suddenly the mood between us had shifted and I didn't know why. When I turned to look at his face, there was no sign of his usual playfulness and his brow was furrowed.

What's that all about? Did I say something wrong?

"What would make you say something like that?" I asked with concern. "Why—"

He started shaking his head before he interrupted me. "Oh, it's nothing... I-I think I'm just tired, too."

After a few moments of awkward silence, he let out a sigh and added, "You know, sleep deprivation does weird things to people, makes them say crazy things." The mirth returned to his voice and I could almost hear his smile. "Even makes some people talk in their sleep."

He was obviously trying to change the subject and distract me, so I let it slide. We were both exhausted and I was sure that a good night's sleep would cure any ill thoughts that plagued us.

"Ha. Ha. Ha. Very funny," I said sarcastically. "I can't wait to see what you do in your sleep."

He stiffened beside me and didn't respond to my comment, so I leaned my head onto his shoulder again and waited for him to say something.

Moments later, he faked a yawn and stretched. "Well, I better get going. W-we've got a long day tomorrow."

What has gotten into him? He's acting as nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs.

He leaned over and placed a chaste kiss on my temple, but before he got up to leave, he reached in his shirt pocket and pulled out a piece of tissue paper. "Um… I wanted to get you something for the wedding, but I wasn't sure what you would like… I mean… I know how you are about gifts and people spending money on you." He glanced over at the box I'd placed on the swing before he looked back at me. "I know you have something old—your mother's dress— and something that's both borrowed and blue—my mom's sapphire earrings—but I wanted to be the one to give you the 'something new.'" He pulled open the tissue paper to reveal a linen handkerchief with my new initials—ISM— embroidered in an elegant green script. As I looked more closely, I saw that the edges of the cloth were rimmed with the same lace that Rosalie had used in my nightgown.

Was he the one who bought the other half of the lace?

"Oh, Edward, it's beautiful. What made you think to buy me a handkerchief?"

"Well, I didn't buy it, exactly. Alice made it. I thought you could tuck it in your bouquet… you know, in case you needed it."

Is this man perfect or what?

I clutched the cloth in my hand and flung myself at Edward for a hug. "Thank you," I whispered in his ear. "I'll cherish it, always."

He squeezed me tight and replied softly, "And, I'll cherish you, always."

XXX

Today.

I was marrying Edward Masen today, and I couldn't have been happier.

After Rosalie and Alice came over and "dolled me up"—their words, not mine—I was ready. Ready to sprint down the aisle, skip the big party, and head to the Cullen's cabin down by the river to consummate our marriage.

Edward and I had decided to stay close to home for the honeymoon since Christmas was only a little over a week away. The cabin seemed like the perfect solution. It was far enough away to feel like we were isolated, but still close enough that we could come back to town easily if we wanted or needed to. Dr. Cullen had arranged for one carriage to transport us to the property and one carriage to remain there at our disposal, so everything was set.

Even though Edward had promised to take me somewhere exotic during summer break for our "real" honeymoon, I told him that I didn't care where we went as long as we were together.

I was just ready to get this show on the road and become his wife.

A few, short hours later, after I had donned my mother's wedding dress and veil, I walked down the aisle on my pa's arm to meet the love of my life at the altar. Edward looked amazing, and the smile that spread across his face as I approached almost made me swoon.

I can't believe he's about to be mine.

After a blur of exchanged vows and rings, the ceremony was over and Edward was lifting my veil to "kiss the bride." As soon as his hands cupped my face and his dazzling, green eyes met mine, everyone and everything else disappeared. It was just the two of us, staring at each other in awe.

"You're mine, sweetness," he whispered.

I nodded with a smile and replied, "Kiss me."

So, he did—thoroughly.

XXX

"So, Mrs. Masen, was your wedding day everything that you imagined it would be?" Edward asked as the buggy took us away from the reception.

I snuggled into his arms because of the chill in the air and smiled. "I can honestly say that this has been the best day of my life, Mr. Masen."

He kissed the top of my head and held me close, but didn't respond. I expected him to say, "Me, too" or "it's about to get even better" or something, but he remained silent… for a long while.

When I couldn't stand the quiet any more, I spoke up. "Edward?"

"Hmm?" he hummed as if he were half asleep.

"Is something wrong? I mean… you're awfully quiet and… reserved."

"Is that a bad thing, sweetness?" he asked, completely oblivious to what I was trying to imply.

I could feel twinges of anger start to rise as questions started spiraling through my mind.

Why hasn't he tried to ravish me? Why hasn't he at least tried to touch me? He hasn't even kissed me again… just the one good time during the ceremony. What's wrong with him? Doesn't he want me?

Angry tears threatened to erupt, but I held them at bay as I pulled away from Edward and turned my attention to the passing countryside. Pangs of rejection began to tighten my chest as he sat a few inches away, completely unaware of my distress.

Maybe he doesn't want me. After all, he's been able to resist my past advances with ease. I know I've seen the evidence of his desire for me before… so what happened?

My fists clenched tightly around my wedding bouquet as I tried to rein in my out of control emotions. I was just about to lose it when Edward leaned his head over on my shoulder and sighed.

Was he trying to go to sleep? Seriously?

I felt him nuzzle a little closer before he placed a chaste kiss on my collarbone—through the fabric of my dress.

"I love you, Isabella Masen, with all my heart," he murmured sweetly as one of his hands found my knee… and then my thigh.

I tensed up involuntarily, so he quickly pulled his hand away like he'd been burned.

I died a little inside when I realized what I'd done. He was making a move and my stupid reflexes effectively halted his progression.

I needed to remedy this situation quickly.

"I'm sorry… I'm just a little jumpy," I said sweetly as I grabbed his hand in mine and massaged his palm. "You can put your hand back on my leg, Edward. I want you to."

He lifted his head from my shoulder and breathed in deeply through his nose before expelling the air in a rush. "We'll be at the cabin soon," he said with a flat tone before going silent once again.

After a few minutes, I couldn't take it anymore. I had to find out what was going on with him. Why was he being so distant? So timid? So reluctant?

"Edward," I could hear the pleading in my voice, "Why haven't you kissed me or anything? You know… since the wedding?"

With a furrowed brow, he turned to me and explained, "Well, for one thing, we've been in plain view of the entire town of Forks, and for another thing, I'm trying to be a gentleman."

He seemed a little aggravated, but I couldn't bring myself to stop the questions. "But, we're alone now, aren't we? Don't you wanna kiss me… or touch me?"

His jaw tightened and I could see the muscles contracting in a regular rhythm as he gritted his teeth over and over and over. After a few moments, he exhaled a slow, shaky breath and turned to me, his eyes black as pitch. "Isabella Masen, if I could've had it my way, I would've ravished you right there in the church as soon as we said, 'I do' –guests be damned. I would have taken you on the altar… on the floor… on the first pew… on the organ… and in the choir loft. God gave sex as a gift to be shared between a man and his wife, so I really don't think he would've cared."

He moved closer to me and cradled my face in his hands as his features softened. "But, here's the thing… I'm terrified right now because I know that I'm going to hurt you when we consummate our marriage. I'm not sure if your ma or anyone else told you about… intercourse, but it's not going to feel very good for you, at least not at first. I'm worried that we've been building up for this mind-blowing experience when, in reality, I'm just going to hurt you and disappoint you."

Edward's eyes were sad and pleading as he tried to make me understand what was about to happen. What he didn't know was that my barrier "in there" was no longer intact. Years ago, I'd jumped out of a tree and landed on my feet. My knees gave away and I ended up coming down hard on my heel. The pain between my legs was excruciating at first, but it subsided after a few hours. When I continued to bleed from down there for a day or two after the accident, Ma had the mid-wife come over and check me. She confirmed that my barrier was ruptured.

I'd never seen a need to mention it to Edward before, but now I wished I had. He'd been worrying himself sick for who knows how long because he didn't want to hurt me… and all his worry was for nothing.

As I looked into his pleading eyes, a small smile started to curl up the edges of my mouth. I didn't want him to think I was laughing at him, so I bit my bottom lip while I tried to figure out the right words to say.

"What are you thinking, baby?" he asked gently as he brushed his thumb lightly across my cheek. "Did I scare you?"

I shook my head "no" and just blurted out my news. "My barrier's already gone."

A look of confusion spread across his face before he asked, "Your barrier? What do you mean your barrier? Are you having your monthly bleeding time or something?"

I laughed out loud, unable to keep the giddiness from bubbling up inside. "No, Edward, my barrier-thingy… inside. I hurt myself years ago when I fell out of a tree and the mid-wife said that I ruptured it."

With baited breath, I watched as understanding flooded his face and a tentative smile emerged. "Um… did she call it a hymen?" he asked with as much seriousness as he could muster.

I reached into the deepest recesses of my memory to see if that's what Ma had called it, but I couldn't recall her using that word.

"I can't remember," I replied with disappointment. "I just remember them saying that it was my barrier."

He was trying to contain his smile as he comforted me. "That's okay, sweetness. I think we're talking about the same thing, anyway."

"How will we know for sure?" I asked innocently.

An unabashed grin spread across his face before he answered, "We'll find out soon enough, baby." He leaned over and looked ahead of the buggy anxiously. It was the first hint of anticipation from Edward that I'd witnessed… and I liked it.

XXX

The moment the carriage drove away, Edward scooped me up in his arms and carried me across the threshold. His strong arms and broad shoulders made me feel small but safe as he took me into the main room of the cabin.

He set my feet down on the floor gently and asked, "Do you wanna look around while I bring in the luggage?"

I smiled shyly and nodded my head. The first thing on my agenda was to find a bedroom and remove my mother's dress; as soon as he turned to leave, I glanced around and quickly found the main bedroom. The porter who'd brought the second carriage had obviously prepared the room because there was a basin of tepid water and several cloths on the washing table.

I closed the curtain over the opening to the room and began the arduous task of unbuttoning the dress. I soon realized that I couldn't do it on my own; Edward would have to help me.

A few minutes later, I heard him bring in the last of the luggage and shut the front door. When he called out my name, I let him know where I was and asked for his help. I'd already unbuttoned the sleeves and some of the buttons at the waist and neck, but all the buttons between my shoulder blades were still fastened and out of my reach.

When he walked in the room and saw what I was doing, he swallowed thickly and took a few steps in my direction. Instead of immediately moving behind me to unbutton the dress, he came to stand in front of me and looked down on me with reverence.

"Do you have any idea how much I love you?" he asked before cupping my face and bringing his lips to mine.

I assumed it was a rhetorical question, since he didn't give me a chance to answer. And, that was fine by me.

His lips delivered soft, gentle, languid kisses for a few minutes, but then he pulled back to look at me. Without saying a word, his hands dropped from my face and moved around to my back to find the buttons that were still fastened. Because he chose this position to work on the buttons, our chests were flush, and with every button undone, the bodice of my dress would sag a little more to reveal part of the corset. His eyes never left mine as he unbuttoned every last button and then held the dress in place.

We were both panting and sweating as we stood there staring at one another. Even though we hadn't done anything sexual, the movements of his hands against my spine and the intensity of his gaze were more erotic than any dream I'd ever had.

I expected Edward would let the dress fall to the floor and then take me then and there, but he didn't. Instead, he gave me a gentle command. "Hang up your mother's dress; I don't want to damage it by accident. Then, put on whatever was in the box Rosalie gave you. I'll be back in a few minutes."

He left no room for argument or questions before he left in a rush.

I desperately wanted to know how he'd found out about the nightgown Rosalie had made for me, but I figured that could wait for another time—long from now— after we'd been naked together and joined as husband and wife the way God intended.

I removed the corset and pantaloons quickly and slipped on the nightgown as Edward had instructed. Then, I made my way over to the wash basin and cleaned all of my important areas before sitting on the bed to wait for him. After couple of minutes, when he still hadn't returned, I lay back on the bed and let my mind wonder through different scenarios of our coupling. Would he be soft and gentle like I'm a precious flower or would he be hard and rough… animalistic?

As I pushed my arms above my head to stretch, I heard a grunt from the door. I looked up to see Edward standing there in his black Sunday pants—and nothing else.

My heart stopped.

His chiseled chest and abdomen still had a hint of tan from his summer work on the farm, and his arms and shoulders were so defined that you could see the outline of every muscle.

Did the man have an ounce of fat anywhere on his body?

He watched me watch him for a few moments before he moved toward me slowly. I propped up on my elbows and ogled every bit of him until he was standing at the edge of the bed. His manhood was evident, straining against his zipper and I wanted to touch him. As he continued to stare, I pushed up onto my knees and moved toward him, not stopping until we were face to face. His perfectly chiseled features were within my grasp.

"Isabella," he moaned as I dared to place my palms on his chest. "You have no idea how needy I am right now." His hands moved slowly up to the first tie of my gown, but he didn't undo it. Instead, he took one end of the string and tickled my collarbone, my neck, and the sensitive area under my jaw. When he used the string to trail lightly over my lips, a shiver rocked my body, causing my nipples to tighten against the sheer fabric of my gown

He leaned forward and whispered in my ear, "Does that feel good, my love?"

His warm breath sent another wave of chills through my body before he yanked the strings firmly to untie the top. I wanted to look down to see what was exposed, but his lips were trailing down my neck in such a way that it left me frozen. I couldn't move for fear of losing the sensations he was eliciting.

He nipped and licked his way back up to my ear as I felt his hand move to the middle tie. By that time, my breathing was growing erratic and I could feel the moisture between my legs start to drip. I wasn't sure if the moisture was from my arousal or from sweat, but the way it slowly meandered down my legs was a tortuous tickle.

"Edward," I groaned. "Please."

I didn't even know what I was begging for, but my body was in need.

"Shh, sweetness," he purred as I felt the string from the middle tie begin to tickle between my breasts. "I want to make you feel good. Do you feel good, Isabella?"

I couldn't answer, so I just nodded my head.

"Can I touch you?" he asked as the string trailed over my sensitive flesh and tickled my nipple.

"Oh, God, yes. Yes," I panted while I waited to feel his hands on my naked skin.

It never came.

I lifted my head to see why he wasn't touching me just in time to see him loosen the middle tie. Apparently he was ready to move forward because he untied the last one without any fanfare and opened my gown to reveal the center of my torso. My nipples were still covered, but the swells of my breasts were visible and heaving. With fascination, I watched as he grabbed my left breast gently and brought his mouth to my cloth covered nipple. He blew warm air across the peak as he brought his other hand up to palm my right breast. He squeezed and kneaded my breasts for a moment before he suddenly pinched the right nipple lightly and sucked the left one into his mouth, fabric and all.

Lightning shot from my nipples to my bellybutton and made my stomach muscles tighten. I'd never experienced the pleasure of pain until that moment. My back arched and my legs began to shake as the sensation became too much.

I started begging again, "Edward, please. I can't." My words didn't make any sense, but he knew how to take care of me.

With a flick of his wrists, my gown fell from my shoulders and left me bare before him. I couldn't understand why, but I felt no shame. I wanted him to see me, touch me, and do with me what he would. I was his.

He lifted me by my waist and laid me on the bed before removing my gown completely and then removing his pants. Even though I was a dazed, dripping, dopey mess, I didn't miss the fact that he was now naked. As he crawled up the bed toward me, I was finally able to see his manhood, and it was beautiful. I'd never seen a man's engorged member before, so I was mesmerized by the thickness and the length as it bobbed up and down with Edward's movements. It looked so heavy. Before I knew what I was doing, I reached out to touch it and Edward hissed. I wasn't sure if it was from pleasure or pain, so I dropped my hand back to the bed and waited. I didn't know what I was waiting for, but I figured Edward would tell me.

When he finally made it all the way up my body and we were face to face, he had a devilish grin on his face. "Bella, you can touch me. I want you to touch me… I was just startled, okay?"

I nodded and immediately let my hand travel to the length between his legs once again.

Edward released a shuddering breath as I touched him, and when I started talking about it he whimpered. "Edward, it's so big and hard, but soft, too. Do you know what I mean?" He didn't answer so I stroked it a little. "The skin is so loose and the tip looks and feels like a smooth river stone… except it's softer." He dropped his forehead to my shoulder and grunted as I stroked him again. "I wonder how much it weighs… I bet it's three pounds, at least."

I don't know what I'd said, but he pulled my hand away from him and attacked my mouth with his. He was aggressive and wild as his tongue and teeth clashed with mine. I think he stuck his tongue in as far as it would go before he removed it and licked down my neck.

"Can I touch you between your legs, baby? Please?" he cried out before I scraped my fingers through his hair and guided his mouth to my breast.

"Yes, Edward. Touch me and see if I'm broken." I demanded as I spread my legs like a wonton hussy and waited for his touch. As his mouth caressed my breast, I felt his hand tickle "down there" for the first time. I couldn't explain what happened, but my hips bucked off the bed with such force that his teeth bit down on my breast. Again the pleasure, pain and pure ecstasy were more than I could handle. I started panting and begging as Edward stroked my folds and brushed against the little hard spot at the top. He flicked it a couple of times and then stuck a finger inside me. I could tell that my body was slick down there because his finger slid right in without any friction. I whimpered when he went in and out of me with his finger.

"Oh, my Bella, you are so ready for me. And, you were right; your barrier is ruptured, so it shouldn't hurt too badly." He removed his fingers and positioned himself above me. As he stared down into my face, I remembered my dream of naked Edward hovering over me as he took me as his wife. I wanted to live that dream, feel that connection, and most of all, make love to my husband.

"Make love to me, Edward. I want you to claim me. I'm yours, only yours, now and forever." Tears fell from my eyes as the reverence I felt for this man overwhelmed me.

He searched my face for any hesitance before he reached down and placed himself at my entrance. "I love you, Bella," he whispered before he pushed himself inside me.

I could feel an uncomfortable stretch, but it wasn't unbearable. He asked if I was okay, so I nodded and said, "More." I felt him push again and the fullness was too much and not enough all at once.

"I'm almost in all the way, baby," he grunted. "Are you still okay?"

I nodded and spread my legs further apart, thinking that that might give him more room. When he realized what I was doing, he lifted up on his knees and put his hands under my backside to lift my rear end off of the bed a little. The sensations changed immediately as he was obviously rubbing something inside that was sensitive like my nipples. With each thrust forward, the tip of him hit that spot inside and sent electricity through every nerve ending in my body. I didn't really know what an orgasm was, but Rosalie had told me that she made herself have them sometimes. What she described, however, was nothing like this. I began to see spots in front of my eyes as my legs and butt started tensing and quivering. My entire body started to spasm and shake while the sounds I tried to make seemed to freeze in my throat. I thought I was dying a beautiful death. My body flailed and convulsed as Edward pounded into me over and over and over. His sweat was flying and his muscles were rippling when he finally let out a guttural moan and shot his seed deep inside me.

I loved the feeling of his length pulsing inside me.

After his pleasure was over, he finally collapsed onto my chest, leaving his manhood inside me. I could feel it start to soften a little, but I didn't think it would fall out on its own. He'd definitely have to pull it out at some point, but for now, I liked the fullness and the connection I felt.

When my body finally relaxed and the aftershocks stopped, I wrapped my arms and legs around my husband and kissed his sweaty temple. "Oh my God, Edward, that was amazing," I cooed. "Please tell me we can do that again."

He lifted his head and gave me a quick peck on the nose before he said, "Can you feel this?"

A smile spread across my face and I nodded with delight as I felt him twitch inside me and start to grow again.

"Your wish is my command, Mrs. Masen."

.

.

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I hope you enjoyed Prairieward and his Sweetness. I may have to revisit the Prairie when another worthy cause comes along.

Thanks for reading.