I don't own Twilight. all Stephenie Meyer.

Chapter Ten

Wedding Bliss with Rings and Champagne

I froze in fear. I tried to not hyperventilate as the car brought us back to the Cullen's. My eyes began to water and all I could think about was his hands all over me and how powerless I felt. I put on a smile for the girls, not wanting to alert them to my panic.

James was out and no one else knew.

What was I going to do? He was coming for me again and he would probably kill me this time.

Once back at the house I walked inside with the girls, completely dazed and my slight buzz all but gone. I felt like a robot as we made our way upstairs.

"Are you okay, Bella?" Alice asked from outside her room.

I shook my head to clear my thoughts. "Yeah, I'm fine. One too many margaritas." I explained as she chuckled in understanding, making my way up the second flight of stairs to Edward's room. As soon I got in the room I collapsed on the floor in a fit of sobs.

I couldn't move. The tears over took me and I found myself hiccupping between sobs, clutching at my stomach as I tried to breathe.

That's how Edward found me when he got in. He scooped me up in his arms and brought me to the bed, sitting down and holding me close. "Breathe, Bella. You've got to breathe for me," he said soothingly as he rubbed circles on my back.

My sobs quieted down, but I clung to him tightly as the tears streamed down my face. "He's… back. He f- found me." I was gripping his shirt tightly.

He continued to rub my back. "Who?"

"James." I was shaking all over. "He's going to come after me." I showed him the message that the bartender had taken down.

Edward continued to let me cry and finally lifted my chin so that I was forced to meet his eyes. "Bella, I want you to listen to me. I swear with everything that I have within me, he won't touch you again." He tucked my hair behind my ear. "Do you trust me?"

I nodded. "With my life." I managed to get out.

He nodded. "I'll protect you, Bella. I won't let anything happen to you." His emerald eyes smoldered as he tried to convey just how much he meant what he was saying. "I love you, Isabella." He whispered.

Unable to hold back I pressed my lips to his in a soft tender kiss, trying to forget how scared I was. When I pulled back he gently kissed my tears away. Being in his arms always made me feel so safe and protected.

"Let's get you out of this and in to something more comfortable." He suggested after we had been sitting there a while.

Not really paying attention I climbed off the bed, letting him help me with the top Alice had managed to get me into, and just stripped down to my bra and boy shorts. I stood there trembling until Edward picked me up and laid me back down on the bed. "Can you hold me, please?" I begged. I just needed to be close to him, to smell his amazing scent.

"Anything for you." He had taken his clothes off and was slipping on a pair of black pajama bottoms when I asked him that. In no time at all he was under the covers with me and had his strong arms wrapped around my waist.

I buried my face in the crook of his neck, allowing my body to become in tune with his and calm down. Our hearts beat in the same rhythm. My breathing slowed down as I listened to Edward quietly hum my lullaby. "I love you," I whispered.

He kissed my shoulder and along my collarbone. "I love you, too. Sleep now, my Bella." He murmured and then continued to hum.

The sun streamed through the window the following morning, nudging us awake with its quiet pleading. I slowly opened my eyes and was met by Edward's unyielding emerald ones. Neither of us said anything for a few minutes.

Edward just ran his fingers along my spine and pressed his forehead to mine. "Are you going to be able to go through with today? If not, no one would think any less of you."

As much as I wanted to I couldn't. I refused to let James control my life and keep me from being there for my family, because that what the Cullen's were to me. Alice was not only my best friend, she was my sister, and I was going to be there for her as she embarked on this new and exciting journey. "I'll be fine. Today is Alice's day."

He moved one of his hands to cup my cheek, the other continuing to move along my spine in a soothing pattern. "Bella, are you sure? I know how deeply this whole thing has affected you and believe me you have nothing to prove to any of us."

I leaned into his touch. "I'm sure. I just want to be there for Alice today. When it's all over we can figure out what to do then." I sighed.

"Okay." He pulled me close to him again, resting his chin on top of my head. As it started getting later we got out of the bed. Edward let me take a shower, getting himself ready in his room.

The hot water felt wonderful as it ran over me, washing away how dirty I felt. I stood under the steady flow for a while before I washed my hair and body. Reluctantly I got out and dried myself off.

When I was dressed I stepped out of the bathroom and began gathering all of the things I was going to need to take to the ceremony.

"Bella," Edward laid the bag with his suit on the bed, "what are you thinking about?"

"That I'm afraid to let you near me now." I kept my eyes down. Looking into his beautiful face was just too difficult. "You deserve so much better than me. I'm a complete mess and now that all this is coming up again, I can't ask you to put your life on hold for me. Staying with me will only put your life in danger."

Quicker than I would have thought possible Edward was at my side with one arm tight around my waist and the other carefully cupping my cheek in his hand. "Isabella Marie Swan, obviously you don't understand just how much you mean to me." His velvety voice sent shivers through me.

"When I look at you I can hardly believe my good fortune that you chose me. You are so beautiful, but you don't even realize it. That lovely blush of yours drives me crazy. You're selfless, irritatingly so, and loyal." He was causing me to swoon. "You never say what I think you will. When I'm away from you I feel like my heart's been ripped in two, until we touch again. You are the only one I will ever love.

"If I want to put myself in danger to protect you, then I will. Losing you is the one thing I can't bear to think about." His thumb lightly grazed my cheek as a tear fell from my eyes. "I love you, always and forever."

I stretched up on my toes and pressed my lips to his. "Thank you." I whispered against his lips. "I love you, too."

He grinned when we parted. "I hate to be away from you while we prepare for the ceremony. Are you sure you'll be okay?" He worried about me in such a cute way.

"Only due to the fact that we'll be together at 5:30 as we walk down the aisle." I went to gather my things and blushed as Edward picked up the majority of them. "Promise me that once the ceremony is over you won't leave my side."

He kissed my forehead softly. "I promise." We left his room, went down to the second floor, and immediately got rushed into the excitement around the house. "I'll bring this out to the limo for you. Go help Alice and I'll see you at 5:30 my love."

I blushed as I watched him leave with his father and brother. How could I have gotten so lucky? He knew all of my shameful secrets and he still wanted me, he really did love me no matter what.

Alice, Rosalie, and Esme were in Alice's old room when I found them. "Alright, ladies we have hair appointments in fifteen minutes. Followed by makeup and nails. The limo will be waiting for us out front when we get back to take us to the plantation."

They all started moving. We took Carlisle's Mercedes into town and went about our business. Getting pampered like that wasn't something I was used to and I blushed at Alice's amused expression when she saw how uncomfortable I was.

Getting our hair done took the longest, making me glad that we did that first. After our makeup and nails were finished Esme drove us back to the house and we got in the awaiting black limousine.

Rosalie helped me get my pale yellow bride's maid dress zipped up while Alice fretted over hers. "Bella, I'd like to tell you something." She smiled at me.

I turned around to face her. "Alright."

She seemed to be searching for the right words before she finally talked. "I never got a chance to tell you how brave I think you are. Bella, you have truly made something of yourself after everything that you went through and that is no easy task. I was violated myself when I was eighteen."

"What?" My jaw dropped at her revelation.

"Yeah, and I was a complete basket case. That is until Emmett came along. He rescued me and was very patient with me." She wiped away the tears that had fallen. "I'm telling you all of this because I wanted you to know that you aren't alone. Moving on is not easy, but you're really lucky to have Edward. He really is a very special man."

I hardly knew what to say. I had no idea Rosalie had been through something similar to me. Before I could start blubbering again I pulled her into a quick hug. "Thank you for sharing that with me." I whispered.

She nodded and smiled.

"Bella!" Alice came over to me, taking my hands in hers. She looked absolutely beautiful. Her normally short spiky hair was pinned up, her makeup was flawless, and the dress was like nothing I'd ever seen. She'd had it sent in from a big designer in France that I'd never heard of. "Can you believe it?"

I pressed my forehead to hers, both of us taking in the moment. "I love you, Alice. Thank you for always being there for me, even when I was not rational." I sniffled slightly. "Tell Jasper that if he hurts you I'll track him down and kill him."

Alice giggled. "I will. Thank you for being like a sister to me. I love you, too." She hugged me.

When it came time for the ceremony Rosalie and I went ahead of Alice to our places outside the doors. The music began and I watched as Rosalie went first. When it was my turn I silently prayed that I wouldn't trip and hurt myself. As I walked my eyes locked with Edward's and I forgot about everything else.

The passion in his eyes was enough to make me blush as I made my way closer and closer. The crooked smile playing across his lips was one of amusement. He mouthed that he loved me and I responded back that I loved him as well.

I was smiling as the ceremony began, beyond thrilled for my best friend. It was such an amazing day for her. I cried through their vows and was only mildly aware that they had kissed and were now being presented as husband and wife. As they made their way down the aisle it came time for Edward and me.

He held his arm out for me and when I took it he slowly led me down the aisle after Jasper and Alice. "You look so beautiful, my love."

I blushed. "Thank you."

In the back of the hall there stood Charlie, Billy, and Jacob. Charlie was in his chief's uniform with his gun and everything. He nodded at me and I knew that he had heard about James.

Once we were all out it was time for pictures to be taken. I groaned inwardly, but held onto Edward the entire time. Alice went a little over board with all the different poses that she wanted us to try, but it was her day so I let her have her fun.

Finally, when that torture came to an end we went outside to the reception and were able to get some food. It felt nice to be normal if only for a few hours. I knew once I saw Charlie he'd give me bad news, so I was enjoying the carefree moments we had.

Jasper and Alice shared their first dance, followed by her dance with Carlisle. At some point during the evening I wound up dancing with Jasper. "So, Bella, how are you?" He had one arm around my waist and the other holding my right hand.

"Pretty good. I'm actually highly doped up on pain killers right now, but keep it quiet." I lowered my voice, smiling at him. I couldn't even joke with Edward that way. Sure I'd tease him a little every now and then, but Jasper and I had a special relationship.

He shook his head at me. "Okay, point taken." He let out a sigh.

"I'm sorry; you just make it so easy with your doctor voice." I patted the shoulder that my arm was resting on. "As long as I have Edward close by, I'm great." I finally admitted.

He grinned. "I'm so glad to see you and Edward together. It's nice to have my friends happy."

"You know it very well could have been me, doctor boy." I winked at him, waiting for his chuckle before I giggled.

"Thank you for being here today, Bella. If it wasn't for you, Alice and I probably wouldn't have met." I still couldn't believe it had been two years since I had introduced the two of them to each other. He was perfect for her.

"I'm just glad that you two are happy. Take care of my friend." I warned him.

"You know I will." We finished up the dance and he kissed my cheek.

As I was about to walk off Charlie came up, offering to dance. We were both quiet, resorting to our usual way of doing things.

Eventually Charlie cleared his throat. "So, I guess you've heard about James escaping." It wasn't a question. "Bells, I promise you that we and the FBI are doing everything that we can to catch him. He won't get to you."

I bit my lip. "I know Dad."

"What would you say to being put in protective custody until he's caught?" He kept his gaze all over the room, avoiding mine.

"I'd say you're all out of luck. There is no way I'm going into any kind of protective custody Dad." I shook my head angrily. "I have too much going on with work and my book."

Charlie stopped swaying to the music and finally looked me in the eyes. "Bells, please at least consider it. I can't lose you again."

"Dad," I wave of emotion hit me that I was not expecting. "I'll think about it."

That seemed to appease him. "Listen, I've got to get back to the office. Take care and call me later."

I hugged him and kissed his cheek. "I will." I made a move to leave the dance floor again and was pulled into Jacob's embrace.

"What are you doing here, Jake?" I rolled my eyes at him, noticing Edward stiffen and move to come to me. I shook my head almost imperceptibly and he stopped.

"Alice and I were friends too, Bells. I was invited." He feigned a look of hurt. "Plus I wanted to tell you sorry for losing my temper yesterday. I just… it hurts is all."

"Jake, you know I love you. But, we were only meant to be friends." I bit my lip. "I'm sorry I can't give you what you want."

He shrugged me off. "Hey, it's no big deal. Besides, until he puts a ring on your finger I'm going to keep trying."

Of course he would, because nothing in my life is ever easy. I couldn't think about that at the moment. All of my focus was on making sure everything went smoothly for Alice and Jasper and getting them off on their honeymoon safely. Then I'd worry about everything else. "I really wish you wouldn't."

"That pale freak can't possibly satisfy you, Bella. Not the way that I could." He muttered.

Without even thinking I stomped down on his foot as hard as I could.

He chuckled, grimacing from my assault on his foot. "That's my girl."

"Don't you dare even think that. I love Edward and whatever animosity you're feeling toward that is your own problem."I finally managed to extract myself from his embrace. "Bye, Jake."

Edward was by my side immediately, wrapping his arms around my waist. "Are you alright? He didn't hurt you did he?"

I shook my head, glancing at Jacob briefly before turning my attention to the man that I loved. "No he didn't hurt. He annoyed the hell out of me, but that's it."

He shook his head angrily, pinching the bridge of his nose.

"Don't be upset, Edward." I brought my hand up to his face, caressing his cheek to calm him down. "Please. It's just you and me right now, that's all you need to be thinking about."

He didn't say anything, leaning into my hand.

I sighed. "Do you hear me Edward Cullen? Just you and me."

"Yes, I hear you." He nodded, opening his eyes and looking deep into mine. "I'm sorry. You have my undivided attention, love." He leaned in and pressed his lips to my forehead.

"Come with me," I took his hand and led him to one of the waiters circling the floor. I got us each a glass of red merlot and gave one to him.

"Bella, can we talk about something when we get home?" He practically drank the entire glass in one gulp.

Oh no. "Of course." I felt my heart pick up speed. He wasn't acting like himself and I was scared. I silently reveled in the fact that he wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled against his side, but I couldn't help thinking that he was hiding something.

Alice had all the girls gather around her so she could toss the bouquet before they went to go change. She turned around so her back to us and daintily tossed it into the crowd of girls.

Without even realizing what I was doing my hands grasped around the flowers. I glanced down and saw the bouquet of orchids in my hands. Everyone applauded as my cheeks flamed up. Alice gave me a knowing smile.

That evil little pixie.

Next it was Jasper's turn to toss the garter. He playfully reached under dress and slid it down her leg as all the guys wolf whistled. Jasper kissed Alice's cheek before he turned to the men and tossed into the crowd.

Edward held the garter up in the air, shaking his head. It must have been embarrassing for him knowing that had been his cousin's. He came over to me when they had gone to change out of their formal wear.

For the past few months Edward had spent all of his time assuring me of his feelings and comforting me. Even though I was still terrified about James I realized I something important. I had to show Edward just how much he meant to me. Sure I told him I loved him, but he was just as new to this as I was and was probably just as insecure. I never wanted him to doubt my feelings for him.

I decided to do so on the way home.

As Jasper and Alice came out we stood with his family. They came over to us to say their goodbyes. I hugged them last, holding back tears. "Call me as soon as you get back, Ali. I want to hear all about it." I whispered.

"The second I'm back." She smiled. "Don't do anything I wouldn't do."

"What so I'm not allowed to sleep to a normal hour? Thanks a lot." I joked.

She rolled her eyes at me and Jasper whisked her off. They rushed off to their car as everyone threw rice at them.

Carlisle and Esme looked exhausted, but so happy. "Why don't you two take the limo back to the house? We'll follow you in a little while." Carlisle suggested.

"Thanks, Dad. That's probably a good idea." Edward shook his hand and kissed his Esme's cheek. "Is that alright with you, Bella?" He asked me.

I nodded. "Yes, that's fine. We'll see you both at home." I pressed my cheek to Carlisle's and then hugged Esme.

She looked as though she were glowing.

My heart started racing again. Something was definitely off and the others were somehow involved. I didn't like this, it was making me nervous. If he had bad news I wish he would have told me. After the whole James surprise I wasn't sure how much more I could possibly take.

Once we were settled in the limo and on the way to his house I turned to Edward and ran my fingers along his chest. I wasn't really sure how to tell him just how important he was to me, but I had to try. "Edward, I'm not really good at expressing my feelings or how to handle it. But I need you to know that if you weren't in my life these past few days, hell these past few months, would have been unbearable."

His simply nodded his head. "For me as well, love."

I bit my lip, letting out a sigh.

Edward surprised me by kissing me, pulling me close as his hand rested on the small of my back. He chuckled against my lips, whispering, "I love you. Bella Swan." He moved his lips down to the hollow of my throat, pressing a kiss to my collarbone.

He trailed his nose up my throat to the spot just below my ear and let his lips linger there. My body shuddered involuntarily at the sensation. His lips expertly moved along my neck, leaving a trail of open mouthed kisses in their wake.

By the time we got to the house I was flushed and exhausted. The day had been filled a mix of so many different emotions that it started taking its toll on me. I allowed Edward to scoop me up and carry me to his room and automatically sat on his bed upon entering it.

"This has been such a long day." I sighed, and I smiled softly at him as I slipped the death traps Alice had the nerve to call shoes off my feet.

Edward took his jacket and tie off, unbuttoning the first buttons on his shirt. "That it has. I'll be right back." He left his room for a few moments and came back with two glasses of champagne.

"What's this?" I asked as he handed one of the glasses to me.

He knelt in front of me and smiled. "This is just a celebration. I am so proud of you for making through today the way you did. I know that wasn't easy."

My cheeks flames up as we clinked our glasses and I took a small sip.

He reached into his pocket for something. "I know you have been on a roller coaster ride the past few days and I wish I could take it all away for you." He placed both of our glasses on the floor.

"Having you here is helping a lot." I admitted meekly.

"Good." He took one of my hands in his and rubbed soothing circles onto my skin as he went. "I've been planning this for a couple of weeks now and it's probably horrible timing, but here it goes anyway. Isabella Marie Swan, will you do me the honor of being my wife? Will you marry me?"