I Own Nothing.
Chapter 12: Guests at the Ball by Royal Invitation.
I exit my room, and there stands Edward in a white and silver suit. He looks like an angel sent from heaven. Then it dawns on me. I look for Rose and find her trying to blend in the background.
"Rose, what are you playing at?" I ask.
"Calm down, my chickadee. I have my own surprises for this evening. And if all goes as planned I might just make an honest women out of you." she says with a wink.
Edward must have just figured out what was going on,
"Rose, you can't be serious." he scoffs.
"Oh but, I am Edward. Now come, escort your beloved to this grand celebration. I will be down shortly. I have to change and pick up Emmett." she shoos us.
Mrs. Cope is waiting at the elevators for us and is quite pleased with our appearance, not picking up on the significance of our chosen attire. We rode in silence. Edward and I were holding hands, he was rubbing soothing circles with his thumb over the back of my hand, it was very comforting.
We were in a hall waiting to be announced so we could enter the ballroom. Alice was giving me the once over and then pulled my pin from her bag and fastened it to the dress,
"A peace of home, in a far away place." she says and pats my shoulder.
I thank her and take my place next to Edward. We are the last to enter. We hear an excited Mike and Jessica.
"Now, the couple we've all been waiting for, Isabella Swan and Edward Cullen from District 12!" Mike announce and the doors open for us.
We were on a platform overlooking the ballroom. We would have to go down a elaborate stairway to enter the ballroom, but first we had to talk to Mike and Jessica.
"Hello, it is a pleasure to meet you both!" Jessica says while shaking both our hands.
"Yes, you both have been the highlight of our talk show since getting here." Mike also shakes our hands.
"I'm sure I speak for both of us, when I say the pleasure is all ours. We've enjoyed watching your show, when we get the chance." Edward says while sporting a crooked smile that will be the center of many woman's dreams tonight.
"Yes, Edward and I were very excited to meet the both of you as well. It's not everyday a couple of kids from District 12 get to meet celebrities from the Capitol." I say sweetly.
A little kissing up never hurt anyone besides, Mike and Jessica ate it up.
"Well aren't you two the cutest little things." Jessica coos. I'm surprised she didn't reach out an squeeze our cheeks.
"I have to know, is it true? Are you two having a love affair?" Mike asked. Nothing like getting right to the point.
"We are in love and have made our feelings known to each other." I say while giving Edward my best goo-goo eyes. He reaches up and runs his fingers across my cheek.
"She's my world now." he says huskily, looking into my eyes with such love. We actually lose ourselves in each other's eyes for a moment.
Jessica started bouncing and let out a loud 'Ssqquueeeaaalll'! We all cringed at the sound. It drew the attention of everyone. Many glares from tributes and their mentors who weren't receiving the attention they wanted.
"That is so romantic!" Jessica gushes.
"So, you're both truly in love, no hidden agenda, not trying to win a few extra sponsors?" Mike asks, always looking for a new angle to spin a story.
"No, tricks, plotting, or ploys to win sponsors. Why would we? We are about to face sure death, for one of us. We just want a little normalcy before our lives are ripped apart." I say, looking at Mike, daring him to challenge me further.
"We are blessed and at the same time the most unlucky people you'll ever meet. We found love when many go a lifetime without, yet we only have a short time together before our other half will be taken away. I wouldn't give up one second I've spent with Bella and only wish we had more time." Edward adds.
"Well, then we will catch up to you two love-birds later go enjoy yourselves." Mike says then turns to Jessica and they start talking about what everyone was wearing.
Edward wraps his arm around my waist and we descend into the ballroom. Right away a server comes and offers Champagne. We both decline, wanting to have clear heads for whatever comes of tonight.
Not five minutes after hitting the ballroom the Panem anthem began to play, and the kings in all their glory appeared on the platform.
"Welcome tributes and mentors, to the First Hunger Games Grand Ball! As promised my brothers and I are here to enjoy this remarkable event with you. We also have a special gift for this year's tributes. We have invited a select few members of each tribute's family to come and share this momentous occasion. So, without further ado, let the guest enter." Aro announces.
A set of doors that I wouldn't have noticed had they not sprung open reveled anxious faces of tribute's family members. They all came rushing in seeking their loved ones. Before I had a chance to even respond, I was enveloped in Nessie arms. And standing behind her stood my mother and Jake?
"Oh, Bella I'm so happy I got to see you again. I never thought I'd get to hug you again. I love you so much. You've been the talk of the district ever since you left. Everyone kept dropping off food and supplies for us. It's like you somehow brought the district to life by volunteering. You're my Hero!" she says not letting me get a word in edgewise.
Unfortunately, Mike and Jessica were right there filming my not so private moment with my sister.
"I've missed you so much Ness. I'm glad your both were doing so well without me." I say while still hugging her.
I finally let go and hugged my mom hoping the cameras wouldn't catch how she didn't hug back. Then I turn to Jake and jump into his arms not even thinking.
"Oh, Jake! How are you here? Not that I'm not happy to see you, but you know." I say not wanting to say to much.
"What not expecting to see your long lost cousin? You partner in crime and bearer of good tidings." he says with his signature smirk.
"Cousin, boy am I happy to see you!" I say while removing myself from him.
With all the excitement I totally forgot about Edward. I looked around for him, and he was still right next to me. He was in his mother's embrace. It was a touching moment. I looked around the room. There were a lot of similar scenes going on throughout the ballroom. Jake must have known what I was doing, like always, and cleared his throat.
"Excuse me, I'm sorry to interrupt. But, may I have a word with Edward?" Jake asks.
Oh, no this can't end well.
"Jake that isn't necessary. You…" he cuts me off.
"Nonsense Bells, I wouldn't be fulfilling my family duties if I didn't have a chat with the one who seems to have stolen your heart, now would I." Jake says while puffing out his chest.
I mouth a sorry to Edward, who didn't seem putout in the least. Mayor Cullen was the first to speak after they left,
"Isabella, I'd like to thank you for bringing some happiness into my son's life. You have given him the greatest gift he will ever receive, your love." and he hugs me.
"I must also thank you, his eyes have a light in them I've never seen before. It's as if you've brought his life meaning." Esme also hugs me.
"I'm the one who should be thanking you for bringing up such a wonderful person. Edward is kind, caring, and companionate he is just wonderful." I say.
Of course Mike had to interrupt our moment,
"So Mayor Cullen, you do not object to their unorthodox relationship?"
"No, why would I? Isabella is a wonderful young woman. I couldn't have chosen a better partner for him if I tried."
"And, what do you think about all this Mrs. Swan?" Mike asks my mom.
"."
Mike asks again and Nessie steps forward,
"My sister has taken care of me and mom since my dad died when I was only six. She does what is right, not what is easy. She volunteered, to save my life. She wouldn't lie about something as special as love. If she chooses Edward to love, who are we to question her? She has every right to have a piece of happiness before having to go into that awful arena." At the end, she stamps her foot.
I almost smiled, her answer was so well-thought and then she goes stamping her foot showing, she is still so immature,
"Ness. I am glad you approve. It means a lot to have all your support." I say sharing glances with everyone,
"Now, I didn't practice all these dances and bruise Edwards poor feet to just stand around talking all night. Let's have some fun."
Hoping to get rid of Mike and Jessica and end the conversation. It worked. Jake asked me to dance, while Nessie danced with Edward. I could already tell this tonight was going to be filled with drama and to top it all off it was being broadcast. Like life wasn't complicated enough.
Jake is filling me in about what was going on back home when, I feel someone tap my shoulder and ask, "May I cut in?" I turn around and there stood Marcus Volturi.
"Of course, Your Majesty" Jake answers for me.
Thankful he didn't make a wise crack and get himself killed, I let it go. Jake bowed and left me with the youngest royal.
"Enjoying your visitors Isabella?" he asks.
"Yes, it is very kind of you to allow all the tributes one more night with their family." I say hoping it was the right word choice.
"You see we can be very charitable, when we want to be. We feel we have been more than generous with you, as well. Therefore, we have made the decision for you, with your best interest at heart of course. You will team up with the careers and they will take care of Edward for us. We don't expect you to kill him yourself, see we aren't totally heartless. You will have to kill a few of the other tributes of course, to make it all look more believable. But don't fret, you will win and be announced Victor. Once back at the Capitol you will announce your alliance with us and we will publicly welcome you into our midst. With that said, welcome to the family Isabella." he stops dancing, kisses me on each cheek and walks off.
To say I was shocked would be an understatement, but the more I thought about it I started getting Pissed! How dare they! I was willing to join. Granted it was to spy on them but, still. They truly thought themselves invincible. Well we'll see about that!
I spotted Edward still dancing with Nessie. Rose was on the other side of the dance floor with Emmett. Alice was at the refreshments table. No way could I get all three of their attention.
Since the news would effect Edward the most, and I didn't want him blowing up in the ballroom. Alice couldn't help with this problem, that only left Rose. Luck was on my side she happened to look right at me and I was facing her so I signaled to meet-up. What I wasn't expecting was Jake to pick up on my signaling.
"What's up Bells?" he asks.
"I need to talk to my team." I answer without thinking.
I am far too relaxed with Jake and forget I need to edit myself.
"Your team? Really Bells, you trust these people." he says in a serious tone.
"Yes Jake I trust them. We all have stories to tell and besides we are all on the same side." I said hoping he picked up on my meaning.
We all hate the royals and their cruel control over Panem. Jake and I would talk about how disgusting the rulers were sometime while hunting.
"If your planning something, I want in." he understands.
"Keep your voice down and your eyes open, you are in a world full of deceit and espionage. Welcome to the Capitol. Follow my lead." I direct him to the other side of the dance floor.
"Rose, Emmett, I'd like you to meet my cousin and best friend Jacob Black."
I do a quick introduction. They all shake hands and exchange greetings.
"Rose I just had a very informative dance with Marcus Volturi. It seems the choice was made for me and I am to team up like you did." I hope she gets what I'm saying.
Both Emmett and Rose stiffen. They got it. So I went on,
"It seems Edward's expiration date has been time stamped, and I have to practice my speech making voice for after the games."
"Damn, they're moving fast now. Must have been spooked with all the publicity you were getting." Rose says in a low voice but she looks lost in thought.
"You need to play nice and be careful with your next few moves Bella. They don't care who gets hurt, just so long as they get what they want. I'm not saying roll over and play dead. I'm just saying bide your time and we will figure out what to do next." Emmett says, surprising me.
I hadn't known he knew so much.
"Bella, did you know Rose and me have been seeing each other since I won? I was offered a position much the same as she was. As tour guild to the Capitol. I didn't want to stay in the Capitol, I wanted to move to District 12. That wasn't an option evidently. The Kings threatened to hurt Rosie. I couldn't let that happen so, I took the job. What they failed to mention is I would be touring the rich and privileged bedrooms. For the right price or as a reward for service I was offered to the men and women of the Capitol. I still am." he finishes in a small voice. Taking a moment to collect himself.
"They use us as their pawns. Our needs aren't important. It's all about them gaining more power and wealth, while the rest of Panem suffer. I know you can change all that and so do they. That is why they will do everything in their power to keep you as their own personal pet." he finishes in a stronger more discussed voice.
Just then Caius walks up to us.
"Strategizing again, Miss. Swan?" he sneers.
"Not at all Your Highness," I say with a bow of the head, "I was informing my mentor of plans to team up with the careers in the games." Play nice, play nice, play nice, I kept on chanting in my head.
"Wise move on your behalf. May I have this dance my dear?" he asks me.
"It would be an honor." I answer and take his hand. It makes my skin crawl.
He heads to a less crowded part of the dance floor.
"I hope you are telling me the truth and will voluntarily join us. It would be a shame to have to imprison your family while they stay and watch the games in the Capitol. If you chose to act against us, we would be forced to do unspeakable things to your sister, mother or cousin. It's so nice he could make it here. It saves a lot of arranging for his transport here, if an order of execution for past crimes should be filed. You'd do well in remembering your place, be a good little girl, and do as you're told. Many lives depend on it. I look forward to watching your performance in the arena. Oh and Good Luck of course." he turns and storms off.
Shit! Shit! Shit! I knew they would threaten me, but to go to all the trouble of having my family here at their disposal. Things really seem to be going from bad to worse. I look around to see where everyone is and spot Aro heading my way. Great, just great. Aren't they suppose to be doing interview interventions with the reporters, and not watching my every move?
"Isabella come walk with me." he tells and doesn't ask that's not a good sign.
He leads me to a veranda that overlooks the city lights.
"I trust my brothers have each had a word with you? You'll be joining us after the games?" he asks and I nod,
"Good, this doesn't have to be an unpleasant experience for you my dear. No, we will reward you for good behavior. Of course we will also punish you for misbehaving. In time you will come to think of the Capitol as your home. You might even grow to appreciate all the hard work my brothers and I do to run Panem. With time you will forget about Edward and move on. I know Felix and Demetri didn't leave a very positive first impression, but we have many other loyal affiliates. One might tickle your fancy and if not you always have my brothers and I for companionship. I'm sure you'll adjust. Now we will leave you to enjoy the rest of the evening." he also kisses both my cheeks.
I shuttered once he left. I could use a long hot shower to wash away the filth they contaminated me with by touching me, too bad it can't wash away the images in my head as well. Nessie comes running up to me,
"The Kings seem to be quite taken with you."
"More like they're trying to take my soul." I say under my breath. She gives me an odd look.
"Listen Nessie, while you're here, make sure Jake or the Cullen's are with you. Never leave with anyone else, especially not a Peacemaker or the Kings. If they try to take you, fight and run away. This is no game, you must be aware of your surroundings at all times. Do exactly as told by me or Jake. Do you understand me?" I grab her arms and give a gentle shake to drive my point across. She doesn't disappoint,
"I understand. I might not be as smart as you, but I can tell the people here aren't very nice. I trust you and Jake. I will follow your instructions as best I can." she vows.
I release a breath I hadn't realized I was holding. I see Edward approaching and hear Jake over the surround sound,
"Can I please have everyone's attention. I just wanted to take a minute to wish all the tributes Good Luck!"
The crowd applauds once they settled down he continued,
"I also wanted to thank the Royal Family for inviting me and my family here for this special event and giving us a chance to share in this memorable night." again a round of applause and the Kings bow,
"Now, I spoke to the Band and made a special request. If you will all give me a moment, I'd like to perform a little custom we do back in District 12." The audience encouraged him to go on,
"Great, thanks! Edward I give you my blessing to take Isabella's hand in The Coming Together Dance. Isabella, I release you into Edward's loving embrace. Happy Day!" he bellows and I'm sure Rose, Nessie, and Edward's parents repeat the words 'Happy Day' as well. The music begins and Edward guides me onto the dance floor.
"Happy Day, Bella." Edward says in his velvety smooth voice.
"Happy Day, Edward." I reply back.
Looking into the eyes of the man I wanted to have an eternity with. Once the song ended Edward lifted my left hand and kissed my ring finger. I in turn did the same to him. Kissing on the wedding rings we did not have to exchange. Then we said in unison 'Happy Day'.
The mayor called for Edward and my attention. He stood on stage with, my sister to his left, my mom to the right, Esme was next to my mother, and Jake next to my sister. They all joined hands. The mayor then announces in a clear and proud voice,
"And so two families join as one, welcome Isabella to the Cullen Family. Happy Day!"
"Happy Day!" the others chorus.
The audience finally realized what had just taken place. A deafening roar of applause hit us from all directions. People came up to congratulate us. It was a bit overwhelming and not how I pictured my wedding day but, I can't say I regret it in the least. Well not until I saw the faces of the three Kings. They were livid. I went and married their enemy. I can only hope they don't punish my family for my act of betrayal.
Up Next,
Newlyweds and Pre-Game Jitters