CHAPTER 11
BPOV
"Isabella, how do you see yourself 10 years from now?" Edward asked.
I look up at him wondering why he asked the question. "I really have no idea. All I know is that, whether be it 10 or 20 or even 50 years I see myself with you."
He flashed his infamous crooked grin at me "I never thought you'd be that cheesy." He said before planting a kiss on my forehead. I leaned to him closer, more of like cuddled him. "Edward, sing me a song."
Then he started to hum a tune so beautiful it brought me to tears. "Don't cry my love. Beautiful girls like you shouldn't cry."
"What did you just call me?"
"My love, because you are indeed the love of my life, my existence." I don't know if it was because he's an actor that he knew lines that would make every girl melt or he's just really that sweet and romantic. "Kiss me Edward." He held my face and leaned down giving me a chaste kiss, then another before he completely devoured my mouth. My hands crept to his nape and fisted his soft bronze hair. We moaned with the sensation and stopped for a while to grasp some air. He looked straight to my eyes as if he is seeing the very core of my soul. "Izzy."
I was suddenly dazed that he knew my nickname. Only mom and Phil called me that and I hated that name. He was still looking at me "Izzy, baby." Now this is starting to get weird, his voice is starting to change and he sounded more like a…woman?
"Izzy! You wake up now honey! Charlie needs your help. Come on now" I heard the voice clearer this time. Now I was sure that I was only dreaming moments ago because when I opened my eyes, I saw my mother's face hovering above me.
"Mom?"
"Silly Isabella, of course it's me. You were dreaming and moaning. What was that all about huh?" I feel the heat rushed to my cheeks and from the looks of my mother, I think my face is as red as a tomato.
"Nothing." I blurted "What does Charlie need? And why are you here?"
She gave out a heartily laugh before responding. "Well, I was just surprised that my daughter was interviewed by Ellen and that her boyfriend is a very handsome young actor. So I thought I might give her a surprise visit as well."
I got up from bed looking for a hair tie. "I said I was sorry!" I pouted jokingly. "But really mom, what's up?"
"Oh well, its Thanksgiving and I got a call from Charlie that the Cullens invited us and that he also needs help from you and from me. So why don't we go downstairs and talk about it over breakfast. Phil and I bought some doughnuts along the way."
In the kitchen, Phil and Charlie were already setting the plates and coffee mugs. I gave Phil a hug while I gave dad a kiss.
"So, what is it that you needed my help for dad?"
He looked over Renee, then Phil, then to me. He squared his shoulders before speaking. "Well, I was planning on proposing to Sue tonight. I thought that we'll be having dinner here but Esme called and invited us. I just don't know if it would be okay to ask her during dinner at the Cullens. So I need your help about the proposal."
I was stunned and tears started to brim over my eyes. "Oh my god! Daddy! I, I'm so happy for you!" I rushed over him and gave him a big hug. Though I wouldn't say that his and mom's separation is a good thing, I am still happy that they've both got to experience great love the second time around.
"Oh, wait, before I forget." Renee left the table and went inside the spare room. When she came back, she brought with her a familiar Tiffany blue box. "I hope she likes it. I mean, you said you just wanted it to be simple right?" Mom said as Charlie opened the box where a simple princess cut diamond ring was nestled.
"You know what Charlie, Nee' here walked around for 6 whole hours. My legs were hurting, it's as if I just finished training! I'm just glad you didn't inherit that from your mother Izzy. Shopping escapades! Goodness." Phil rolled his eyes and earned a playful slap on the arm from mom.
"Well, I'm sure they wouldn't mind if you do, but I'll coordinate with the midget. Congratulations in advance dad. I'm so happy for you!" I gave him a reassuring look.
"So, I never have known that my daughter is bestselling author huh? And Charlie, have you shown the big guns to that boy?" Phil joked but before dad could respond, mom interrupted. "O hush now you two! She said sorry! On national television!" and we all both fell into a hearty laugh.
I have to give it to Alice, the girl could really turn a simple celebration to a big festivity. The moment we arrived at the Cullen Mansion, we were welcomed by music and a parade of Japanese lanterns along the driveway. Mom gushed over it especially when she saw the lighted gazebo. Alice and I decided that it would probably be more comfortable for Charlie to propose to Sue in private and that was what the gazebo is for. Phil and Charlie help bring the tray of food that I cook to the kitchen. Introductions were made and of course, Esme and Renee hit it off, especially after mom saw the Kiwi and Strawberry painting of mine. I was glad that I have brought my new camera with me and started snapping random pictures of the family. Indeed, the past few months have been a true blessing. My new book is a success, the film is almost in its final production, Edward's movie is setting the buzz in LA, mom and Phil is happy, dad is proposing to Sue and many other blessings that the Lord has given me and this precious family. I was trying to focus my lens on Lia and Roe who were closely watching Carlisle and Emmet's game of chess when strong arms snake around my waist.
"Playing photographer love?"
"Hi! Esme said you were sleeping. I went upstairs but you look so peaceful so I didn't wake you up." I said giving him a kiss on the cheek.
"You should've just lain down with me."
"Nah, the chaos downstairs is better than your snoring. But I've got some pictures of you though. The drool? Priceless!"
"I don't snore. And I don't drool!" He protested.
"Well you can deny all you want but I've got the evidence! Come to think of it, I might send one to Perez Hilton or TMZ!" I teased him as soon as I was able to get away from him. He was about to tackle me and I tried to run backwards. Of course clumsiness is forever in my favor so I tripped and fell down knocking the brass cymbal display. It made a loud vibrating noise and everyone looked down at me.
"Only you Bella swan could make a scene like that!" Emmet chided as he sauntered towards me helping me stand up.
"Well, I'm glad that I have entertained you guys. I guess I just needed to be fed to regain my balance!" Edward claimed me and gave me my favorite forehead kiss before teasing me "The fall? Priceless!"
"Okay enough of that love birds the table is ready let's eat!" Carlisle called.
Of course, we did the traditional, "thank you message" before digging in. Esme is so delighted that mom and dad as well as Sue and Phil were able to come and join us for dinner. She said that it was the first time that all the seats at the dinner table were occupied. There was a talk about baseball which Phil and Emmet dominated. I'm sure if Charlie is not nervous he would have joined too but he has only given short comments so far. Alice, Rosalie and I were chatting about flower arrangements and catering services for Alice and Japer's wedding. It was a surprise for all of us when she said that she wanted her wedding to be simple and small, quite contrary to her usual exuberant and over the top attitude.
"Jasper and I saw this dock while we were driving around Port Angeles. It's a small private lake and I immediately fell in love with it. I already talked to the owner of the property and he's okay for us renting it as the venue." She said.
"It will only be family and some really close friends. We wanted the ceremony to be solemn" Jasper added.
"No friends from LA?" Edward asked.
"None. Actually I never told anyone from LA. Al and I thought that it would be better to keep them away from prying into our private lives especially with you and Bella now out in the public." Jasper explained to which the Cullens thanked him for.
Dinner went by quickly and we moved to the living room. The parents were talking, the children were chatting and the grand children were playing but it didn't go unnoticed, how uncomfortable Charlie is.
"Hey, just give Alice or I the go signal and we'll start. You just have to breathe dad, I don't want to be sending you to hospital right now."
He looked at me and gave me a weak smile. "I'm just nervous. Uhm, would you tell Sure to follow me out in 10 minutes? I just need to calm my nerves I guess."
"Sure! You've got the ring?" He tapped his left pocket before giving me a kiss and went out to the gazebo.
"Ali! It's time!" I whispered subtly into her ear as I pass by her. She nodded and went to follow Charlie outside. Jasper raised his eyebrow in question. "Later brother, I've got a proposal to finish" I said before asking Edward to play the piano to which he willingly obliged.
"What do you want me to play?"
"Anything random. For now. But as soon as I give you the cue, please changed it to Moon River." He agreed but with a slightest hint of hesitation. While the rest of the family is busy chatting or listening to Edward, Alice and I are communicating silently through our eyes. When I nodded, she quickly came over Sue telling her that Charlie was asking her to go outside. She was a bit confused but Alice, Renee and I, who knew what was coming, just gave her a reassuring smile. As soon as she stepped out of the French doors, I asked Edward to play Moon River. I stood up and took my camera while Alice adjusted the volume control and the lights at the gazebo.
"He's going to propose to Sue!" I exclaimed when it dawned to me that most of the family members are wondering what is going on. I discreetly went outside with Alice, her holding the Ipad to record a video while I take the pictures. When they hugged I knew that Sue said yes and I excitedly made my way to them, Alice following behind and we both gave them a big hug.
When Charlie and Sue came back inside, Renee rushed to them and congratulated them followed by Carlisle, Esme and Phil.
"So Sue, do you have any plans for your wedding? Do you want it to be a long engagement or a short one?" Alice started to inquire.
"Slow down sweetheart. We just got engaged." Sue replied and everyone laughed.
"Oh well, just inform me and Bella about your plans and we'll do it! Oh I can't believe this! Jasper and I are engaged, Charlie and Sue are engaged, Edward, when do you plan on asking Bella then?"
"Very straightforward aren't we Alice?" I said wiping of the water that I sputtered.
"Well, what's taking you so long? You're clearly 'it'. The two of you are done deal."
Edward cleared his throat before speaking. "Well my dear sister, I would like to inform you that I am just waiting for you and Jasper to go on your honeymoon and that is when I am going to ask her to marry me. Then we are going off to Vegas and be married by Elvis." Alice's face looks horrified and I gave Edward a high five.
"What a way to make her shut up! Good one Edward!" Rosalie praised.
"Just don't be too sure son. I might have to shoot you first before you get a chance of asking for my daughter's hand." It was Charlie who spoke and Alice' stuck her tongue out over us.
"If you do that then you'll get imprisoned. What would happen to Sue then?" Emmet asked
"Touché'"
"It seems like the youngsters are all passed out? Do you think we should call it a night. And of course, let the newly engaged couple have their "own" time?" Esme chided.
"O definitely! Charlie, Sue, congratulations again! And you don't have to worry, Phil and I will be staying at the Inn!" mom said and winked. I was wondering why Phil and her would have to stay at the inn when they could stay at our house. Then it dawned me, that they are trying to give dad and Sue there alone time, which leaves me homeless for the night. Edward sensing my worry rubbed my back. "What is it love?"
"Well, mom and Phil are going to stay at the inn, probably giving dad and Sue some alone time. Obviously, I can't stay with them do you think it will be okay if I just crash here for the night?" I asked hesitantly.
"Of course. That will give me the perfect opportunity to spend the night with you in my old bedroom. It's kind of my fantasy." He whispered huskily before leaving wet kisses on my neck. I playfully slap his arms telling him to stop.
Rosalie, Emmet and the kids are already settled in the guest room. Alice and Jasper decided to stay at their condo and so is Carlisle and Esme. I help Edward locked the doors before we retreated to his bedroom. He lent me his old college shirt and boxer shorts. Good thing I always bring with me an extra pair of underwear. When I finished my shower, Edward was already in bed reading a book that seems to be all too familiar.
"Hey! Why do you have that? That's supposed to be Esme's." I said as I grabbed the book from him.
He took his glasses off and laid them on the night stand. "Well, I remembered Rose saying you had a special copy for mom and dad and I was curious. I've seen mom read your works before but it was the first time that I tried reading them. You write so well. It just feels a little weird reading about my parents' story."
"If there is any couple that I look up to, it would be them. It was during a girl bonding time when Alice and I asked your mom how she met your dad. And even though at that time, the story wasn't that elaborate I knew that it's a story worth telling."
"You're right."
"About what?"
"That their story is something to look up to. Something worth telling. I hope that we could be like them you know. 30 years and still going strong. Of course please don't get me wrong about what happened to your parents. It seems like love is better for them the second time around. But as for us, I want it to be the First and the Last." Edward said as he patted the empty space beside him. I willingly crawled over and cuddled him.
"I don't know about the first and last thing Edward. I mean, we could be each other's first and last but there's a possibility that there will be a second, third, you get me? If I were to choose, I'd say, I want you to be my one and only. How about you, do you want me to be your one and only?" I asked him, searching deep within his soul.
"I think that's better. And yes. I will be your one and only and you will be mine." He said and we shared a passionate kiss.
"Isabella, how do you see yourself 10 years from now?" Edward asked.
I look up at him wondering why he asked the question. "I really have no idea. All I know is that, whether be it 10 or 20 or even 50 years I see myself with you."
He flashed his infamous crooked grin at me "I never thought you'd be that cheesy." He said before planting a kiss on my forehead. I leaned to him closer, more of like cuddled him. "Edward, sing me a song."
Then he started to hum a familiar tune. When I realized what it was, I started to laugh. Edward stopped with a confused look. "What so funny?"
"Nothing. It's just that, I kind of dreamt of this already. It's like déjà vu!"
"Really?"
"Yes. The only difference was that in my dream I was crying because the tune is so beautiful. What is that song by the way?" I asked
"Well, it's your song actually. I've compose that song while we were apart. I mean, the first time, right after we've bumped into each other. I can't stop thinking about you and so I took out my frustration on the piano. Do you not like it?"
"No, its beautiful Edward. I love it." Giving him a quick kiss.
"I'm glad you do. So how about we go to sleep now?" I nodded in agreement. Nothing is better than to be spooned by Edward.
