I'm back again. Don't rely on me being on time with this story. Have fun with this one.

Bpov:

Christmas was apon us. Snow was on the ground and on the tree branches. Of course the air was crisp. The only thing that wasn't normal in the season was my mother planning. We had decorated the tree the previous week. All the stringed popcorn and cherries took forever to make. I had always enjoyed opening the little ornaments from the boxes. They hold such happy memories.

Mother had gotten the menu done for the Christmas party. She was having me create decorations around the house. I had gotten a new dress for the occasion. The dress was a dark teal colour with bright blue sleeves. The dress has embroidered flowers. My mother gave it to me for an early Christmas present.

I loved to cook so I spent my afternoon and evening helping our cook Martha. Martha had lived and worked with our family for a long time. Even before I was born. I used to hide in her skirts as a young child. She smelled like flour and some seemed to always get into her dark hair.

My mother peaked her head from behind the door.

"Bella, are you ready, darling?"

"No mother. I still have to make these appetizers."

"Well hurry up. You still have to get dressed. The guests will be arriving soon"

"Did the Masen's get back to you about Edward?"

"No. He couldn't catch a train ticket for anything earlier than the weekend. I'm sorry dear. He'll be here before you know it."

She closed the door behind her leaving me to my work. It was easier to forget my hurt feelings if I busied myself.

"Bella, child. Don't be so glum. Your man will come for you soon. Now let's get this done so your mother doesn't have a panic."

I chuckled at Martha's comment about my mother. She did stress out too much about entertaining.

After I got ready for the party I waited with my parents by the door to greet people as they came. My mother and father were dressed in their finest. Of course they weren't wearing their very best. They were saving those clothes for church and my wedding.

Soon enough everyone was there. When the Masen's arrived I got they greeted us and gave me a sad smile and moved to the large sitting room. The house was bustling with noise, chatter, and laughter. The rooms gave off a warm and cozy feel despite the cold night.

Dinner was eaten and stories were shared. This year was the first year I didn't have to sit with the children. I was finally old enough. Or there was one less person at the adult table.

Afterwards the small children were opening a couple of presents by the tree before they had to go home for bed. I was sitting in a chair by the window sipping on a class of punch.

"Bella there are carolers outside. Why don't you go and listen."

"But father, it's cold outside. And it's snowing."

"Do as I say. You won't be disappointed."

I didn't really know what he was on about, but I did as he said. He seemed to know something I didn't.

Opening the door let in the nights frigid air. I wrapped my arms around myself watching the carolers on the street. It made me lonely even in this cheery season.

As I was listening someone poked my shoulder.

"I really wasn't to be alone right now father. Go find mother."

"I definitely am not you father. And I'm not leaving you for some time."

I recognized that voice. I turned around to see none other than Edward. I practically jumped into his arms and started to cry.

"Now now. No need to cry over me. I told you I would be home for Christmas and here I am."

"I'm sorry. I just missed you so much. I can't help it."

"I couldn't stay away from you for too long. I thought s surprise would be a nice Christmas present."

"The very best."

The link to Bella's. Dress is in my bio. Review please.