Online Offline

by lgmrkm

Bella is being forced into a future she doesn't want. Her only true friend and confidante is a boy online whose name she doesn't even know. When she moves from San Francisco to Forks her online and offline world collide. Better sum inside. AH

14. Chapter 14: Merry New Tree

Hey guys I am back! I got a new computer the other day (an HP woot lol) so I was finally able to finish this chapter, which is in three parts.

So read, review and enjoy!

PREVIOUSLY ON ONLINE OFFLINE

Bella was dragge doff with Alice and Rosalie for some Christmas shopping while grilling her on her relationship with Edward. All was revealed on how they really met and poor Bella was dragged into Victoria's secret. The next day was her first real date with Edward, in which they had brunch and spent the afternoon in Port Angeles. That night it was dinner with the parents in which Charlie had a little talk with our Edward, given that it is a right of passage for young men. There was still a week of school to go and the new couple discovered hanging out of windows can be fun!

Chapter 14: Merry New Tree

I woke up to the sound of my alarm going off and the rarity of actual sunlight streaming through my window. It was Sunday December 20th and school had finally ended on Friday for the holiday season. This last week had been interesting in that Edward and I had gone 'public' with our relationship. To say some were surprised would have been an understatement considering for weeks we were at each other's throats.

Tanya specifically seemed generally pissed off since only a few days before we became a couple he had taken her to the winter formal. I saw her corner him while I waited by car him after school on Tuesday. Even though every fiber of my being was dying to run across the parking lot and drag him away I allowed him to handle it.

I could tell it was a heated conversation, on her part anyway, but eventually he just walked away and back to me. He had told me the gist of the conversation that night when I asked, my curiosity getting the better of me. She wanted to know why he was suddenly with me when he took her out. He tried to explain nicely and even apologized to her if she felt led on but she just started yelling obscenities. It was then that he just walked away and I'm glad he did because even though I felt that he could handle himself if Alice hadn't had a grip on my shoulder I would have joined in.

This, of course, hadn't stopped her eyes from roaming and viewing him like a piece of meat whenever she saw him. Luckily he is usually with me so she hadn't had another chance to talk to him and nor will she. I am most definitely not Tanya's favorite person at the moment.

Needless to say I found most of my classes for more entertaining than they were before, specifically biology. We spent half the time in that class passing notes or whispering under our breath. It really is good he's not just my boyfriend but lab partner since I hadn't heard a word of the lectures and that crap seems to come natural to him.

Is it sad that I have turned into one of those girls who can't stop making googlie-eyes at their boyfriend whether he's across the room or beside me?

Probably.

Do I care?

Not really.

I hit the snooze button so I could have another few minutes of sleep but what seemed like thirty seconds, when it was really five minutes, my alarm went off again. Sighing I shut it off and removed my lazy butt out of bed, stretching and yawning as I shuffled to the bathroom. After my shower I dried my hair and put it into two side braids to keep it out of the way.

I was going Christmas tree shopping with Edward, Emmett, Rose, Alice and Jasper today in Port Angeles. Alice, Jasper and Rosalie didn't need one since their parents had either already gotten one or had fake trees but wanted to tag along anyway. I had never had a real Christmas tree before, we usually bought a fake one every five years or so, so I was admittedly excited. I had my parent's credit card and my mom, while not joining us, was also generally excited. It seemed insignificant but it was something new.

When I had finished in the bathroom I stared at my closest for a moment deciding what to wear. I walked to my window and peaked out of the curtains and saw about a centimeter of snow on the ground. Since we would be outside for at least a little while I decided warm should be the main criteria for my wardrobe today. I chose a pair of skinny jeans that I could easily tuck into my brown boots and a tank top with a simple t-shirt and grey long sleeved shirt overtop.

I grabbed my purse, making sure everything was inside, before leaving my room and going quickly downstairs. When I walked into the kitchen the clock on the wall indicated it was just after nine o'clock so I still had about a half an hour to eat something before meeting everyone outside.

I had just finished my waffles when I heard movement upstairs and the shower running indicating my parents were waking up. Taking the plate to the sink I rinsed it quickly before going back towards the foyer. I grabbed the banister on the stairs and stepped up a few steps before calling up to whoever wasn't in the shower.

"I'm going out now to get the tree, see you guys later!"

"Alright Bells, pick out a good one or don't bother coming home." My dad teased back and I chuckled. My dad and I had been getting along better and even though I admit there were times I was a little bitter about what happened I could deal. I had planned on speaking with them right after New Years since I would be applying to some more Universities. I was sure would could come to a compromise some how.

"Will do!" I shouted back.

I grabbed my coat and boots from the front hall closet and put them on before grabbing gloves and a hat and slipping them on as well. I grabbed my bag and slipped through the door and into the chilly air. The sun wasn't as bright as it was an hour ago but it was still peaking through the clouds slightly lighting the snow up like crystals. I wasn't surprised to see both Jasper and Alice here already as they leaned against Emmett's jeep talking to Edward.

Alice waved and called over a greeting which I quickly returned. I smiled when Edward looked over at me and hurried my last few steps so I could get to him faster. He immediately pulled me into his arms and placed a gentle kiss on my forehead and then my lips. We hadn't been able to see each other yesterday since he, Emmett and Jasper decided to do their shopping that day. Alice being her usual hyper self stole Rosalie and I for a girls day of chick flicks and junk food. While I liked hanging out with those two, Rosalie's sarcastic humor and Alice's energetic mood contagious, I missed him greatly. What can I say I can't get enough of him.

"Good morning." He said as he turned me around and pulled me back into his chest and wrapped his arms around my middle, the exact same position our best friends were in at the moment. I think it was simultaneously to be closer and to keep warm.

"Morning. Where are Emmett and Rose?" I asked as he started playing with my braids, why I don't know but he usually likes to play with my hair for some reason. Though to be fair I do enjoy running my hands through his so I guess it's not just him.

"They're getting the chainsaw and bungee cords we need to get the trees from the farm to your house." Jasper said.

Thirty seconds later Emmett appeared with Rosalie, her arms carrying a small box with what I assumed were the cords while Emmett carried the chainsaw. I couldn't help giggle as Emmett began whistling Jingle Bells as he came closer, the chainsaw resting haphazardly over his right shoulder. All Emmett needed was a red suit and beard and he would look like psycho path Santa. I whispered my thoughts to Edward and he let out a big snort and muffled his laughter in my shoulder.

"Well now that Bella is here we can get this show on the road." Emmett said cheerfully, really looking like an overgrown kid in his excitement.

"Emmett you sure you know how to wield that thing?" Edward teased, pointing the machine on his shoulder. Emmett grinned and got a wicked glint in his eye and lowered it till it was in front of him.

"Are you questioning my masculinity little brother?" Edward merely shrugged but couldn't wipe the grin off his face. I looked over at Rose and saw her mouth 'men' before rolling her eyes. Alice caught my eye and we both turned away trying not to laugh.

Emmett revved the chainsaw suddenly and I covered my ears and backed further into Edward's chest while he held it up like he was a mighty warrior. Esme must have seen him do this out of a window or something because two seconds later she was on their porch hugging her sweater closer to her while her eyes narrowed at her eldest son

"Emmett Alexander Cullen you stop playing around with that chainsaw this instant before someone gets hurt!" She yelled.

Emmett hung his head while he turned it off, rubbing the back of his neck and avoiding eye contact with her. "Sorry mom." He mumbled while the rest of us tried to fight off our laughter over the big and powerful Emmett cowering in the presence of his 5'4, 115 pound mother.

"Do I need to get your father to accompany you today or do you think you can act like responsible adult?" She continued to scold. At this point Edward and I were leaning against each other in support, the two of us vibrating with the force of our withheld laughter.

"No mom." He mumbled again, his arms hanging limply at his sides, the chainsaw dangling a few centimeters off the ground. I would have felt sorry for him if it wasn't so funny.

"Good, don't let me catch you doing a stunt like that again young man." She sent one last glare before smirking and sending the rest of a wink before going back inside. As soon as we heard the click of the door the five of us burst into hysterics while Emmett gave us the stink eye.

"Oh laugh it up guys, bask in my humiliation."

"We plan on it." Edward said while Jasper and Alice nodded their heads in agreement. Rosalie, while smirking, was able to keep her composure and was rubbing his arm soothingly.

"Hey that could have just as easily been you Eddie."

"Yes but it wasn't because I'm not stupid enough to pull that crap on our front lawn." Edward retorted while his laughter began to calm down.

After everyone was done laughing Jasper and Alice moved their cars off to the side so Emmett could pull out his jeep. We were all riding in the jeep since his vehicle was the only one built to carry multiple large and heavy objects such as pine trees. Emmett was driving so Rosalie got the passenger seat leaving the four of us piled in the back. Since it only fit three people Alice ended up perched on Jasper's lap but it wasn't a strange site since she was often there anyway.

It didn't take long to get to Port Angeles between Emmett's manic driving, apparently a Cullen trait, and the conversations that flowed. The tree farm was just on the outskirts of the city surrounded by forest. We pulled into the parking lot, well the large patch of flattened snow, and saw that it was already filling with various cars.

When we got out I looked up at the giant sign overhead saying LAZY J TREE FARM. To the side of the gate entrance was a large sign listing the hours of operation and various other bits of information.

Tree Prices: $5 per foot

Chainsaw Rental: $10

Saw Rental: $5

Tree cutting and/or hauling assistance: $15

Home Delivery: $50

All Children under 14 must be escorted by an adult 18 or older

All machinery or saws must be handled by an adult 18 or older

No food or drink beyond the gate

No pets allowed beyond the gate

No throwing of snow or ice

Just as I finished reading the sign I felt Edward slip his hand into mine. "You excited?" His eyes were wide and bright and reminded me of the little boy deep inside.

"Definitely" I said. I looked up into his face and smiled as he tugged me along towards the entrance, the others trailing closely behind. There were kids running around with their parents and I could hear various groups laughing and talking while we walked through the rows of trees. It really was a beautiful winter day with the limited but still present sunshine and the light coating of snow on the ground. It was just below freezing but luckily there wasn't a cool wind ripping through making the cold almost enjoyable.

At some point Edward and I separated from the group while we leisurely walked around, comparing various trees and talking about random topics. This is one of the things I loved about our relationship, we could talk about pretty much anything for hours and never get bored or run out of things to say.

As we walked around in the seemingly endless maze of pine my eyes suddenly landed on the tree. It was just the right size, perfectly green, not too wide with rich needles and not a single bald spot on it. It was tall, ten feet at least but we had large ceilings so that wouldn't be a problem. It was perfection, as far as pine trees go. The little girl in me started skipping around it, hanging tinsel as I went and singing Oh Christmas Tree.

I smiled in triumph until I saw Emmett nearby looking at the same tree on the opposite end of the path, both of us roughly the same distance away. Our eyes met and I could see the challenge there. No way in hell was he getting my Christmas tree. That same little girl narrowed her eyes and grabbed her stuffed animal army and Barbie air force, creating a line of defense around her tree.

"Don't even think about it Emmett, the tree is mine I saw it first." I yelled, narrowing my eyes at him. Edward looked between the two of us and then at the tree before chuckling to himself. I see nothing funny about this!

"Is that a challenge Swan?" He raised an eyebrow.

"You bet your ass it is Cullen."

He got a devious look in his eyes before they cut to the man beside me. "Bro hold her down while I cut this baby, it'll look perfect in our living room." Emmett smirked at me and I'm pretty sure I growled. Who knew I could get to competitive and protective over a tree?

"Edward if you interfere in anyway angry grizzly bears will look tame compared to what I will unleash upon you."

I heard Edward gulp before dropping my hand and backing away with his hands raised in surrender. "Sorry Emmett you're on your own this time." Smart man. Very smart man. I got myself a keeper for sure.

"Et tu Brute?" Emmett said in shock, clutching his chest as if Edward had wounded him.

"What would you do in my position?" Edward said seriously and I saw Emmett nod his head reluctantly in agreement. That's right, both Cullen boys were too scared to go against their girlfriends and with good reason. Though I'm sure Rosalie could cause far more damage than me. Maybe not, I really wanted this tree.

It was like the old American western movies with the good guy, being me of course, facing down the bad guy, aka Emmett. The other was waiting to see if the other would draw first and rather than dirt and tumble weeds blowing by us it was snow drifts. However I was not about to let this turn into another Sergio Leone film with a five minute stand off of us just watching each other. I was going to make my move.

"Emmett Emmett Emmett, you are out of your league on this one." I declared before sprinting toward the tree, my feet for once going where they were supposed to. I caught Emmett off guard so it gave me a head start. His legs may be longer but he was bulky, my small stature allowing me to gain more speed even in the snow. It also helped that he had to lug that chainsaw around.

"Crap!" Emmett yelled as he started running but it was too late, I had already reached the tree, grabbing one of the branches. He huffed as he reached me. "That was cheating!"

"Alls fair in love and war. I told ya you were outta your league Emmett, better luck next time." I taunted while I did a little victory dance on the spot. I probably looked like a fool but I was too busy basking in the refreshing and oh so amazing pool of victory to care.

I felt Edward come behind me while he laughed, whether it was from my ridiculous dance or Emmett's face I didn't know. He wrapped his arms around me and I easily snuggled back into his chest. "Congratulations." He said before kissing the side of my head.

I turned around and beamed at him. "Thank you."

"Well maybe I don't feel like cutting down this tree." Emmett said, pouting and acting like a petulant child. I turned my head back to face him and give him the evil eye.

"No problem I'll do it." Edward said and I felt him shrug. I looked back at him and he winked. Yup, definitely a keeper. I turned my head a bit further and captured his lips with mine for a moment.

"Aw c'mon man you're fraternizing with the enemy!" Emmett complained.

"You know what they say Em, keep your friends close and your enemies closer." Edward pulled me closer to his body and tightening his hold, causing my breath to hitch as his lips came against my ear. "And what an enemy to have." He whispered for only me, causing all cognitive function to cease. Edward Cullen is a very dangerous man.

Edward let go but my mind and body were still stunned into silence for a moment. He walked over to Emmett and took the chainsaw out of his hands, plucked the safety goggles that were perched on Emmett's head and placed them over his eyes before he walked back to the tree. As he revved the machine to life I saw the other three walking towards us, Alice waving happily. I waved back and beckoned them to come over before turning my attention back to Edward.

He sent me another wink before beginning his cutting of the tree, the sounds echoing throughout the field while I backed further away from the pieces of flying wood. I suddenly had a vision of him in dirt covered jeans, heavy boots and a red flannel shirt chopping down a tree in the forest. Of course he got hot and had to remove his shirt, tucking it into the back of his pants, sweat now rolling down his back. Hmmm lumber jack Edward.

Lumberward.

I was shocked out of my fantasy when I heard a loud cracking sound as the tree fell onto the snow. I cringed, hoping it didn't damage the tree much and if so resolving to put that side of the tree facing a corner. Jasper and Edward grabbed the bottom and top of the tree and hoisted it off the ground so they could carry it to the entrance. I followed them while Rose and Alice dragged Emmett off to show him another great tree they saw. My tree is better.

We brought the tree to the entrance and after they measured it quickly I paid my fifty dollars for it before they placed it atop of Emmett's jeep, securing it tightly. We were about to go back and assist Emmett with carrying his tree when we saw him walking down the path, the tree held on his shoulders and Rosalie now in possession of the chainsaw. He set it down, acting as if it weighed nothing but I could tell he was playing it up, rubbing his shoulder when he thought no one was looking. Probably making up for being first emasculated first by his mother this morning and than earlier by me.

Emmett and Edward quickly paid for their tree and hauled up onto the roof of the jeep beside mine. Once it was secure we all got in and began the drive home, Edward and I replaying what happened with the tree stand off. This of course started another round of playful bantering between Emmett and I but it was all in good fun. I had only known Emmett just over a week but already I felt like he was the brother I never had.

It was just after noon when we passed into Forks so we picked up some food to go on the way back, deciding that after our trees were delivered we would all hang out in the Cullen basement. When we arrived home Charlie and Carlisle came out to assist the boys in bringing in the trees. Emmett tried to steal my tree…again…but I smacked his arms away and threatened to end his life.

After I ripped my tree away from him my mom gushed over ours as my dad and Jasper carried it into our living room that had conveniently been re-arranged while we were gone. After about five minutes of moving it around under Renee's and my supervision we finally found the perfect place for it. Luckily there wasn't any damage to it from its transport so I didn't have to hide part of it in a corner after all.

My mom walked up to me and hugged me to her side. "It's prefect sweetie, just what we needed for our first Christmas in Forks."

"It is perfect isn't." I whispered and I wasn't just talking about the tree.

~*~CHRISTMAS DAY~*~

I woke up Christmas morning to the smell of pancakes, maple syrup, fruit and coffee as I did every year since I was a child. I yawned and stretched as I looked over at the time. It was just after nine in the morning and if my stomach wasn't growling I would have gone back to bed for another hour. When I was a child I was up at six am even though I couldn't open any gifts until my parents woke up. I spent that time arranging the gifts into specific piles and then shaking them trying to figure out what I got. If my parents were luckily I would wake them up at 7:30. Ten years later I've learned the art of patience.

Who am I kidding I'm just a girl who likes her sleep even during the holidays.

Running my hands through my hair, something I did more often now thanks to being around Edward, I got up and shuffled my way to the door. I didn't bother changing since we always ate breakfast and opened gifts in the pjs my mother always gave us on Christmas Eve. The only difference was last night the Cullen's had been with us.

I had groaned in embarrassment when my mom made me open my pjs in front of Edward and the rest of the Cullens. It wasn't that I had to show off my Christmas sleeping wear or even that they had dancing elves on the pants. No it was that my mother, without my knowledge, had decided to include the Cullens in this tradition and got me and Edward matching pjs. Yes mom, I get your happy we're a couple believe me I am too but really, matching pajamas?

Luckily Edward just chuckled while he graciously promised my mom he would wear them that night to bed. At first I thought maybe he was just saying that as to not hurt my mom's feelings, I would have understood, but that wasn't the case. When he came to his window last night, a new nightly ritual for us, he was wearing them and I have to admit he looked adorable in his red shirt and elf pants.

Carlisle and Esme seemed to genuinely like theirs and Esme even mentioned she may just continue this tradition in the following years. While Carlisle, Esme and Edward were laid back and composed with their thanks Emmett, on the other hand, was way to ecstatic to be wearing pjs with cute little penguins on them. He hugged my mom and proudly held them up for everyone to see but he wasn't teasing or making fun. I didn't find a single fake glint in his eye, he really wanted to wear them. I couldn't help but chuckle at the thought of beefy Emmett walking around in penguin pants.

When I reached the kitchen I smiled at the plate already waiting for me, my mom and dad already sitting down with mugs of coffee in their hands. There was a jug of orange juice in the middle along with the syrup and a small bowl of fruit; Strawberries, Kiwi, Peaches and Melon piled together. I sat down and grabbed the syrup, smothering my food in its sugary goodness before topping it with fruit and pouring my drink.

"I was wondering when you were going to get up." My mom said while I took my first bite, moaning ridiculously loud. Overall my mom wasn't much of a cook and my father was worse, which is why I usually have kitchen duty, but her pancakes were heaven. After a couple of bites and a quick sip of juice I answered.

"I would have been down sooner but the sugar plum faeries tried to take their revenge on me for destroying their ginger bread home last year. They cornered me with sharpened candy canes before they tied me down with tinsel and gagged me with a candy apple." My face was completely serious even though I wanted to smile. In order to resist doing so I took another bite.

My father started simultaneously laughing and chocking on his coffee while my mom giggled. "Oh dear, how ever did you manage to escape?" My mom asked, playing along.

"The elves." I said simply.

"The elves? You mean Santa's elves?" My dad finally recovered a bit but I saw him wipe a tear away from his eye, his body still slightly shaking with laughter.

I nodded and took another bite. "Yup, the big man and I are like this." I crossed two fingers together. "I'm surprised you didn't her the struggle in my room, there had to be at least half a dozen of them."

"Well I'm glad to see you made it out."

"So am I. It's a Christmas miracle!" I said happily before laughing along with them. I'm a dork but hey its Christmas I can indulge a little in my inner child.

After the three of us finished eating, piling the dishes into the sink to be washed later, we congregated in the living room around my perfect tree. Our tree wasn't overdone or had any grand scheme or design to it. It was simply decorated with multi-coloured lights, some tinsel and various ornaments we had collected over the years. It was completely random and I loved it completely.

We sat down and started exchanging gifts, hugging one another and saying thank you each time. I didn't need or ask for much but I got a good haul this year. Some nice clothes, books, a necklace and an iPod touch. This didn't take long and by the time we had cleaned up all the wrapping and I carried my stuff into my room it was only quarter to eleven.

Usually my mom and I, well mostly me but she assists, would be working on Christmas dinner but we were going over the Cullens this year. The Hales were also joining us and I was glad the Cullens had a large home, it was going to be full today. It was strange having someone else cook for me but also nice since I could relax a little before going over at two.

I walked over to my lap top and turned it on so I could start putting my music on my new iPod. While everything was loading I grabbed my cell phone and hit Alice's name so I could wish her a Merry Christmas since I couldn't do it in person. Both Alice and Jasper were out of town for Christmas visiting relatives. Jasper was in Texas while Alice was in New Hampshire. She would be back on the 29th and Jasper on the 30th, just enough time for Alice to get her house ready for her party on New Years eve.

She picked up on the second ring. "Merry Christmas Bella!"

I chuckled at her enthusiasm but couldn't stop smiling. "Merry Christmas to you to Alice. How's New Hampshire?"

At this she went into every detail of her holiday so far. She especially loved talking about her little cousins alternating between adoration and annoyance. Adoration for when she read them a story at bed time and annoyance when Luke apparently puked all over her new shoes. At first they thought he was ill but Alice found an empty bag of cookies behind his bed that he clearly ate.

We talked for a good thirty minutes, well after she stopped laughing over Emmett's love for the penguin pants, before hanging up. I called Jasper to wish him a Merry Christmas but he, thankfully, didn't feel the need to go into the same amount of detail as his pixi girlfriend. He was enjoying Texas, missed Alice as well as Edward and I and was exited to go horseback riding this afternoon. I giggled as I envisioned Jasper in a cowboy hat.

When I got off the phone I hooked up my iPod to my computer, began the download while I went to the bathroom to take a shower. When I got out I debated on what to wear knowing dinner was going to be slightly more formal than what we usually have but I also wanted to be comfortable. I left my hair down in waves but clipped the sides to give it a bit of shape.

I chose to wear my one favorite dark blue bootlegged jeans and my new beige sweater that was long enough it could probably pass for a short dress. I partnered it with a silver belt and a pair of black kitten heels. It was casual but nice and hopefully appropriate.

I lounged around my room for a while, listening to music and playing around with my new iPod. It was almost two when I emerged from my room, a bag of presents for Edward, Emmett and Rose. My mom nodded in approval of my outfit as she opened the door for my dad and me since he also had his hands full with gifts. As we trekked across the lawn I saw another car there that I assumed belonged to the Hales.

Esme opened the door with her usual welcoming smile and pulled Renee in for a hug. "Merry Christmas! You are just in time the Hales arrived only moments ago." She ushered us in, giving both Charlie and I a hug as we shuffled past her. She led us into the living where I saw Carlisle talking to two people I had never met so naturally I assumed these were Rosalie's parents.

Rose was the splitting image of her mother, both blonde, tall, hourglass figure and beyond gorgeous. The only feature that Rose seemed to have obtained from her father was his piercing blue gaze, where her mother's eyes were a light hazel. They introduced themselves as Marcus and Heidi Hale and I quickly exchanged hellos with them.

I looked around the room but I didn't spot Edward, Rose or Emmett. I was confused until I felt Esme grab my hand and lead me away from the parents who had now engaged in conversation. "They're upstairs dear in their room, you can just go on up." She said, clearly reading my mind.

"Alright, thank you Esme."

"No problem." She said. I turned to go up the steps when I heard her voice calling me again. I turned and looked at her. "I just wanted to say that you look lovely, that sweater suits you."

I blushed but smiled at her. "Thank you." She nodded and headed back into the living room. I went up the steps quickly, anxious to see Edward. I passed by Emmett's room and I heard voices but I skipped passed them for now and headed to the end of the hall.

Edward's door was shut but I could hear the faint sounds of music coming from inside, the sounds of jazz floating through the wood. I knocked lightly on the door and immediately heard the padding of feet from inside. Edward opened the door looking all kinds gorgeous. He had white collared shirt with a light blue pattern on with black slacks and a dress jacket.

He pulled me into his room and I barely had time to put my gifts down on the ground before I was engulfed in his arms. We embraced for a minute before he pulled back and kissed me. "Merry Christmas." He mumbled into my lips.

"Merry Christmas."

He took my hand and led me to his bed, I kicked off my heels before he pulled me down so I was lying on his chest. He started playing with the sleeve of my sweater. "Is this new?" He asked.

I nodded. "Yup, I got it today."

"I like it." He said gently and I smiled up at him, mumbling my thanks while I claimed his lips again. We made out for a few minutes before he pulled away, running his hand through his hair nervously.

I sat up. "Are you alright?"

He nodded but still looked nervous. "Ya I'm fine. Ummm do you want your gift now?" Was this why he was nervous?

I smiled and nodded. "Sure I have yours with me as well." As I bent over the bed to grab his gift from the bag I now began to feel nervous. Was it enough? Would he like it? When I first purchased it my nerves were about its delivery and not how it would be received. His gift had arrived last Wednesday luckily, I was deathly afraid something would happen to delay the delivery but luck was on my side.

When I pulled back up, his gift in my hand, I saw him walking back over to me from his desk. He sat down and opened his legs, gesturing for me to sit in between them. I scooted over and nestled my back against his chest, his arms coming around me as he placed his gift on my lap.

It was nicely decorated with shiny blue paper and a silver bow on top. It was rectangular and long but not very big. "Did you wrap it yourself?" I asked, curious. It was exceptionally wrapped and while mine looked nice you could tell I wasn't the best. I turned my head so I could look at him and he grinned.

"Yup, c'mon open it before I have a panic attack here." He teased but there was an undertone of seriousness there.

I turned back to the gift and began to remove the paper. I had begged him not to get me anything expensive or over the top and I hoped he listened. When the paper was off to the side I was holding a cardboard box with no indication on the outside what it was.

I opened it quickly and saw first another smaller box on top of sheet music. I smiled as I picked up the music for Bella's Lullaby, my eyes scanning the notes. "I wrote the song for you, it's only right that you have it." I heard him whisper in my ear.

"Thank you." I gave him a kiss on the cheek before setting it back into the boox and picking up the smaller package. I opened it up and smiled widely. Inside was a thick silver charm bracelet with six charms already attached. I pulled it out and examined closely. There was a golden swan, computer, book, shoe, pool table and some weird woman thing that confused me.

"Do you like it?" He asked, barely concealing his anxiety.

I nodded enthusiastically. "I love it!" I meant it. His hand came around and took it from my hand, unclasping it before bringing it up to my left wrist and securing it gently there. "Will you tell me why you chose these charms?"

"Well the swan is fairly obvious." He said with a chuckle before continuing. "When I ran this idea past Alice she loved it and made me promise to get a charm that would represent her so I chose the shoe since she's a shopaholic deformity of nature." I couldn't help but laugh in agreement. "The book is because I know how much you love to read and write. The pool table represents that night after the winter formal dance when you kicked my butt at the pool table. The weird looking woman represents your astrological sign, I tried to find something better looking but this was the best one. Last but not least the computer represents how we first met, when you entered my life." Okay complete swoon!

I turned my head and kissed him on the lips. "Thank you again, I truly love it." He smiled before letting out a gust of breath, mumbling something that sounded like 'thank god'. 'Okay time for you to open your gift."

I spun around so I was still between his legs but facing him while I grabbed his gift and placed it on his lap. He ripped open the paper like a little boy and I couldn't help but laugh. He opened the container and took out a brown leather bound music folder for his sheet music. When I saw it in the music store I knew I had to get it for him, I was even able to have the leather engraved/stitched with his name in black lettering.

He ran his hand across the cover before opening it slowly, revealing several dozen brand new blank music sheets for him to use. On the inside of the cover was another engraving, this time a quote. Back when he was still just EC to me I spent an hour on google one day, bored out of my mind, looking up random quotes about life, love, humor, religion and pain. In this case I came across one quote surrounding music that made me think of him.

"Most people live and die with their music un-played. They never dare to try."

I could see him reading the words over and over and suddenly I got nervous when after a minute he didn't say anything. I cleared my throat awkwardly while my right hand fiddled with my new charm bracelet. "Ummm do you like it?"

He looked up and set the book aside before framing my face in his hands and kissing me deeply. I let out an embarrassing moan and I felt him chuckle before he placed one last chaste kiss on my lips.

"It's perfect, thank you." He gave me a warm smile that I couldn't help but return. He placed the boxes onto his side table before tugging me forwards and back into his arms. "Get back here, we won't have much longer alone before we have to be sociable." I laughed but he was probably right so I was going to enjoy my alone time with him

We sat there for a while talking while music lightly filled the room. We talked about our mornings and what we did with our families. We both laughed at our practically identical conversations with our best friends this morning and the similar visions of cowboy Jasper.

About twenty minutes later I heard the thrumping of footsteps coming towards us. "Here comes Emmett." Edward mumbled. A second later his brother burst through the door much like the first day I met him. I couldn't help but wonder how I hadn't heard him coming that first time and then I realized I was a little pre-occupied.

Emmett was black slacks, a white collared shirt with a black vest and red tie on top. He would have looked like a very respectable business man if it weren't for the large Santa hat perched on top of his head, the white cotton ball on the tip dangling to the side. In true Emmett fashion he didn't look the slightest bit uncomfortable or embarrassed about his head accessory. In fact, he looked proud.

Rosalie looked beautiful as usual. Her hair was up in an elegant bun with a few pieces coming out at various points. She had on a knee length black and white sweater dress with a turtle neck. She looked sophisticated, high class but still sexy all at the same time. Her makeup was light and not overdone.

"Merry Christmas Baby Bell!" Emmett said loudly, marching over and dragging me away from Edward and into a bone crushing hug, my feet lifting off the ground. Emmett started calling me Baby Bell that afternoon after Christmas tree shopping when we were watching a movie. He found out about my love for Baby Bell cheese and him being the genius he is, his words not mine, said it matched perfectly to my name.

"Em...can't….breath." I choked out.

"Can you not crush my girlfriend?" Edward said irritably. Two seconds later I was on the floor and in a different set of arms, air making its way gloriously through my lungs.

Emmett grinned and hugged Rosalie to his side. "Sorry about that Bella it's just Christmas is my favorite holiday and I get excited."

I chuckled and shook my head. "No problem Emmett, I'm kind of used to having my bones crushed regularly now. Has anyone told you anabolic steroids are really bad for you?"

"You wound me Baby Bell! No steroids for these babies, just tough love." He kissed each arm. I heard Edward snort behind me and Rose mumble what sounded like 'gorgeous idiot'.

I shook my head before bending over and retrieving the bag with their presents. When Emmett saw what I was doing his entire face lit up and I swear he was barely containing himself from ripping the boxes from my hands. I twirled his gift in my hands, taunting him and I couldn't help but laugh at his expression.

I decided to take pity on him and handed him the gift. "Merry Christmas Emmett."

He took it eagerly and ripped open the paper quickly before pulling out the Sea Hawks jersey. His face lit up with a huge smile. "Suh-weeeet! Thank you Baby Bell."

"I got the largest size, I hope it fits." I said nervously.

He threw the box on the floor and I saw Edward's eyes narrow on the mess on his floor. Emmett placed the santa hat on the bedside table so he could throw it over his head and slipped in on. I sighed in relief that it fit. "Fits just fine. Thank you again, I actually needed a new one."

"Really?" I looked at him skeptically but I was surprised when Rosalie answered me.

"He really did Bella, he got chicken wing sauce and other forms of male bonding junk food all over his last one. If you didn't get him one I would of just so he could through the repulsive thing out once and for all."

"Baby I'm not throwing it out, a true fan keeps all his jerseys no matter what state they are in." She raised an eyebrow daring him to stop her from throwing it out and he looked rightfully scared. "Well I guess there are always some exceptions."

Rose sent me a wink before I turned around and grabbed her two gifts. "Merry Christmas Rosalie."

She smiled at me as she first placed the larger box on the bed and opened up the smaller one on top. She pulled out her bracelet and examined it before giving a nod of approval and slipping it on. "Thank you Bella its beautiful." She turned the larger present and a full on grin made its way onto her face when she examined the box with her model car in it.

"Cool Rosie, let's take it out and see how well it rolls." Emmett said, excited for what I guess he saw as a new item to play with. She scowled before placing the box gently down and walking over to him, smacking him on the side of his head. "Hey! Babe what was that for?"

"It's a collectable Emmett not a toy, it stays in the box." She rolled her eyes before giving me a small one armed hug and another whisper of thanks.

Emmett grumbled, "Looks like a toy to me." But promptly shut up at her death glare. Not one to be down for long he perked up and walked out of the room quickly. I looked at the doorway for a moment before looking back at Edward in confusion wondering why he left. He just shrugged.

A minute later Emmet re-appeared with his own gift and I tried very hard not to laugh as I viewed what had to be a whole roll of tape securing the package. Edward didn't even bother trying not to laugh as I felt his chest shake. "Ummm Emmett did you wrap this yourself." I said gently.

He nodded, looking so proud. "Yup! Rosie and I combined our gifts into one box for ya. Merry Christmas!" He said as he handed me the box.

I took it from his outstretched hands and placed it on the bed, examining it for any possible opening I could use to actually un-wrap the thing. I looked over at Edward and grinned, seeing he was doing the same thing as me. "Dr. Cullen I am going to need a pair of scissors stat!" I barked at him. He looked stunned at first before chuckling as he quickly went over to his desk and opened a drawer, pulling out a pair of black scissors. "Hurry we're losing him!"

He put them in my waiting palm. "Your scissors Dr. Swan."

I dug the scissors into various areas, ripping the tape away and taking chunks of wrapping paper with it. I ripped the rest of the paper away only to groan to see the plain box had its lid being held together with yet more tape. I looked up at Emmett who grinned and shrugged. I took the scissors one last time and removed the tape, finally opening the gift.

I couldn't stop laughing when I picked up the large package of Baby Bell cheese. "Oh Emmett how did you know?" I gushed, laying it on a little thick but he seemed to enjoy it.

He waved his hand around as if it were nothing. "I just know these things."

"I thought that was Alice." I joked, opening the package and plucking out of the cheese circles, peeling back the wax and taking a bite. I offered some to the others but Emmett was the only one who accepted.

He took a bite. "No Alice is a deformity of nature with her damn freaky premonitions." He shrugged. "But she's our deformity so what are going to do."

I went back to the box, nibbling as I went and picked up the small and absolutely adorable stuffed husky dog. "That there is the mascot for U of W, go Huskies!" Emmett cheered.

"Thanks Em I love it." I said, finishing off my cheese so I could cuddle with the Husky while I continued my open bi-pass present surgery. I pulled out the First Season to Sex and the City and a bottle of Dior Hypnotic Poison perfume. These were definitely Rosalie's gifts.

"I told you no woman should go without seeing at least a few episodes of that show." She said and I nodded, promising I would watch it after the new year. I sniffed the fragrance of the bottle and moaned. I've never been a huge user of perfume, preferring body sprays, but damn this stuff smelled amazing. I looked up and saw Rosalie looking all smug, clearly knowing what I was thinking.

I thanked them both profusely and the four of us chilled in Edward's room for a little while, Edward and I wrapped up on the bed while Rose and Em took to the leather love seat. We exchanged stories of past Christmases and what Rose and Em would be up to once they left on the third. I won't deny I was really going to miss them when they leave.

I heard a knock on the door. "Come in." Edward called.

Esme poked her head through and smiled, looking gorgeous in her deep jade dress. "Dinner will be in about an hour, how about you guys come down and socialize with the old people for a while huh." She teased.

We all went to get up and I saw Esme's eyes widen as she took in Emmett. "Emmett remove that jersey and hang it in your closet before you come down please." Though she is asking you can hear the demand in her voice.

"But mom Bella gave it to me as a gift!" It really is funny how much this nine-teen year old guy manages to sound like he's nine again.

"And it is a lovely gift." She says to me before narrowing her eyes at him. "However it is not appropriate for today while we have guests, you can wear it tomorrow if you like. Until then, it goes in your closet." At this she turned around and left, leaving no room for discussion.

We followed after her, stopping for a minute to allow Emmett to hang up his shirt and Rosalie to pack away the car. The living room was beautifully decorated and unlike our home Esme seemed to adhere to a theme of gold and red this year. Every surface had some sort of center piece and the tree stood proudly in the corner, not as good as ours of course.

"I love your tree Em." I teased as we walked down the steps.

"Next year Swan, next year." He threatened.

I turned my head and smirked. "And next year will wield the same result Cullen."

"Children behave." Edward said in amusement.

Esme must have gone back into the kitchen because when we arrived in the living room everyone else was seated. Unfortunately there were only seven seats in the living room for ten people, nine if you did not count Esme who was busy in the kitchen; three on the couch, two on the love seat and two separate chairs.

Emmett and Rose seemed to find the solution when he merely pulled her onto his lap on the chair as if her father wasn't a few feet away. Edward gave me a questioning stare and eyed the only free spot next to my parents on the couch. I shrugged and gave him a reassuring smile as he sat down and slowly brought me down with him onto his lap.

Edward eyed my dad warily but luckily he seemed determined to ignore that his daughter was sitting on her boyfriends lap. Either he's accepted it and knows he can't say anything to really change it or the he felt comfortable with the power of the talk he had with Edward that first night. Perhaps both.

My hands made their way into his hair as I lightly stroked it, the conversation flowing pleasantly in the room. The hour seemed to pass by fairly quickly and soon Esme appeared in the doorway, wiping her hands on a towel.

"Well dinner will be ready in about ten minutes. Boys can you please set up the dinning room table. The good china." She turned and went back to the kitchen.

I stood up so Edward could move and do as Esme asked, or rather ordered. He gave me a quick kiss on my temple before I sunk into the now vacated seat while he followed his brother into the other room. The couch was comfortable no doubt about that but I preferred my previous seating arrangement a little more.

Almost ten minutes later to the dot Esme was announcing dinner was ready and I'm not afraid to admit I think I may have drooled just a little bit. The Cullens dining room table could fit ten people snuggly but any more than that and it probably would have been uncomfortable. Esme and Carlisle sat at each end of the table while Rosalie and my parents made up one side, the rest of us sitting opposite of them, Edward to right. I was just thankful there wasn't a 'kids' table.

Carlisle asked us to say a grace first, something that I haven't done since grandma Swan died. Religion wasn't a major influence in my home growing up but I had nothing against it, though I consider myself more of an agnostic. Still I bowed my head in respect and murmured amen when he finished.

The food smelled and looked absolutely mouthwatering and I'll admit I had a very small lunch today just so I could eat as much as I could. What can I say, turkey is pure heaven and I know I'll be sleeping deeply tonight.

The first few minutes was spent in comfortable silence while people loaded their plates with the occasional request for someone to pass an item. Emmett looked like he was building a miniature mountain with the amount of food he was plating, I got full just looking at it. I wondered if his muscles on his arms were actually little hollow rooms that he stored food in. Maybe he dragged it back to his room and rationed it so he could hibernate like a bear.

The conversation flowed easily and I actually enjoyed talking to the Hales. Mr. Hale was the chief of police in Forks and a cop in Seattle before that. He moved his wife and, at the time, seven year old daughter when he wanted a safer place for them to live. Still he had some really interesting stories from that time and even a few from Forks though it wasn't exactly known for its crime waves.

Once dinner was eaten, I had two helpings myself though that was only half of what Emmett ate, we had desert with a choice of pumpkin, raspberry, rub-barb or pecan pie. Since Esme cooked Carlisle was on dish duty and I insisted on helping him, dragging Edward with me. It didn't take long with the three of us and after we joined the others in the living room, Edward and I on the nearby window seat since all the seating was taken.

It was going on eight o'clock when Esme leaned forward and looked at Edward and I. "Honey do you think you good play us some Christmas carols on your piano." She asked sweetly.

I felt him shrug. "Sure."

He grabbed my hand and led me towards the library/music room that I had been a few times now, our families following behind us. They gathered around the piano and while I planned to stand with the others Edward insisted I sat with him on the bench.

Edward started with Jingle Bells, adding a little more complexity to it with his own back harmony being sewn into it. We probably went through all the most popular and loved songs and he indulged Emmett's request for 'Grandma got run over by a reindeer'.

He played for over an hour and I thought he was done until he began playing my Lullaby. I couldn't help but lean my head onto his shoulder while he played my song, a content smile on my lips.

When the last note vibrated through the room he stretched and cracked his knuckles a little. "I think I need to stop before my fingers fall off." He joked.

"Of course honey thank you." Esme said.

"Edward, what was that last song you played I didn't recognize it but it was beautiful." My mother asked.

I blushed and I saw a hint of blush appear on his cheeks as well. Emmett started laughing while he looked at us. "Hey they are both blushing, now you gotta spill."

Edward cleared his throat and regained his composure. "Actually that was my own composition Renee." I couldn't help be proud of him, he was so talented.

She gasped but smiled. "Really? Wow I must say you are very talented Edward. Does it have a title?"

I blushed again but I saw him smile. "Bella's Lullaby." His voice was confident and he gave me a gentle smile.

There was a chorus of awwws from the mothers but I heard Emmett let out some weird whining sound. I looked at him in confusion but I saw he was giving Edward the stink eye. "Dude you composed your girl her own song? Can you make the rest of us look any worse?"

I couldn't help but laugh while Edward actually looked a little smug and I swear I saw Carlisle gave him a wink. "Well if you hadn't quit the piano lessons mom put us in after a month maybe you could."

"Whatever." He mumbled.

The night ended soon after that, everyone was tired thanks to the tryptophan in the turkey. I wished the Cullens and Hales a Merry Christmas while Emmett, Rose, Edward and I made quick plans to see a movie tomorrow night.

When I walked into the house I went straight to my room and quickly changed into a pair of silk pajama's. I met Edward as usual at our windows and we talked for a few minutes for saying good night. Of course I had to go and be cheesy and blow him a kiss but he played along and caught, placing it in his pocket.

As I settled into my sheets I grabbed my notebook and opened it to the next blank page. I was tired but I wanted to write something about today, which was without the best Christmas I have ever had and I knew it was because of the company I was with. With this thought I began to write.

It isn't the flowing ribbons

Draped and curled with extra care

Or the fine and fancy bows

Tied with ornamental flare

It isn't the label on the box

The sum of the money spent

Or anything that shows the length

To which you obviously went

The beauty of a Christmas gift

Cannot be seen at all

For the loveliness of giving

Is a feeling, grand and tall

It's the genuine offer of love

The yearning to make a connection

A show of honest gratitude

A display of sincere affection

~*~NEW YEARS~*~

I arrived at Alice's New Years Eve day with Edward just after two in the afternoon, my gifts for her and Jasper in my hands. Since Jasper didn't arrive till late last night Alice and I hadn't exchanged gifts, waiting for Jasper to be home so the four of us could do it together. Edward and I were early for the gift exchange and catch up and after we were going to help with any last minute details before Rose and Emmett arrived to get ready with us.

When we walked into the living room I gasped in shock at the change since I felt like I was walking into a night club. There were lights strung up on the walls, the furniture was draped in deep purple sheets. A large stereo sat in the corner and the surfaces were decorated with a variety of center pieces and confetti. "Alice what did you do!" I said in shock. I looked over at Edward and while his eyes were wide he also didn't look surprised.

She skipped to the center of the room and looked around. "You think it's too much?" She asked, perplexed. She turned her wide eyes on me and I shook my head.

"No its perfect just a shock. How on earth did you do all this?"

"Do you know who your talking to Bells?" She asked, putting a hand on her hip.

I guess she was right, I shouldn't have been surprised that Alice could pull this off. "My mistake."

Alice led the way to the basement which was decked out pretty much the same as upstairs. She gestured to the couch, that was pushed more to the side allowing for more room for people to gather. Upstairs would be where the majority of the dancing would be. The kitchen and dining room was where all drinks and food must be kept. I know she was providing a spiked punch but other than that it was a BYOB.

We sat down and took out the gifts we got for one another. Jasper was thrilled with his chess set and he got me the first three books in the Wheel of Time series that I've been wanting to read.

While Edward and Jasper exchanged Alice handed me my gift that was wrapped with a million meters of ribbon and interesting tiny figurines tied to it. She opened her gift first and squeeled when she pulled out the powerpuff dolls, giving each a big squeeze. She picked up the small jewelry box gently and gasped when she opened it. She took it out and examined the engraving and I saw her eyes get a little glossy when she saw the silver circle with BFF engraved into it.

"Bella thank you so much!" She whispered, before pulling me into a hug so tight that it rivaled Emmett's.

"You're welcome Alice, love ya powerpuff."

"Love you too." She whipped a single tear before unclasping it and putting it on. Once done she clasped her hands together. "Okay open your gift."

I laughed while I spent a good two minutes trying to get through the ribbon. Luckily after that was done it was smooth sailing and I was able to open it quickly. I pulled out a small but beautiful glass statue of a man holding a woman above him.

"The description at the store said it was Romeo and Juliet and I know how much you love both the movies and plays. Plus it won't clash with your room."

I smiled. "Thanks Alice I love it." I was about to put it back when she stopped me, taking it out of my hands.

"There's one more thing in the there." She said.

I looked at her in confusion because when I looked inside I had only seen the figurine. I examined the contents again and a first I thought she was joking but then I saw the small card. I pulled it out and read it at least five times before laughing.

Get out of one outfit card

This is what was printed onto the card along with a flower and a little cartoon woman. "Alice are you for real?"

She nodded. "Yup. Just think of it as a get out of jail free card but for fashion. Present this at any time and you will not have to wear whatever outfit I have chosen. I cannot complain and I cannot threaten you into it. However its only good for one time so don't waste it. Oh and it doesn't expire."

I laughed again and hugged her. "I love it and I'll be sure to save it for something good." This was probably my favorite gift after the charm bracelet from Edward. It was personal and completely Alice, plus I have a feeling it will come in handy one day.

After we deposited our gifts temporarily in Alice's room, since the upstairs was off limits, we helped Alice with any last minute details. Alice's parents were going to be in Seattle tonight but they knew she was having a party. They probably knew kids would be drinking but Alice said they subtly hinted that everyone should have a safe ride home. To accomplish this Alice was making anyone who drove deposit their keys in a bowel which she would later put away. You had to go through her to get your keys and if your drunk than tough luck.

Rose and Emmett arrive around 3:30 and while the boys were charged with a few more things to do Alice dragged Rose and I to administer her torture. I mean make overs.

I washed and straightened my hair this morning like Alice asked so she could do with it as she pleased. Rose grabbed a magazine and crawled onto the bed, resting on her stomach while she began to read. Alice retrieved our dresses from the closet, hanging them up on the doors. Why I don't know but I know not to mess with Alice when she is in makeover mode.

Alice took my shoulders and forced my body down onto her chair in front of her vanity desk and mirror. Okay Bells just sit there and…"

"And let you work your magic, ya ya I know the drill by now Alice."

While Rosalie snorted from behind her magazine while Alice pursed her lips and narrowed her eyes at me in the mirror. "Smartass." She mumbled.

She began working on my hair which only took maybe fifteen minutes since it was already dry and straightened. She parted my hair before pulling it into low side ponytail but not before she put this little device under my hair to raise it a bit. She took her curling iron and gave the pieces a healthy wave while leaving a few pieces hanging out.

While she worked on her hair Rose came over and did my makeup. She gave me a smoky eye look with a dash of bronze colouring in there to match my dress. Some mascara and very little blush later, since I supply enough on my own, I was ready for my dress.

I waited to change while Rose and Alice took their turns getting ready. I went through Rosalie's hair with the straightening iron since it was easier this way. She was leaving it pin straight and down and had on some magenta eye shadow that made her eyes pop and look almost violet in colour.

Alice did her usual spikey hair-do, adding some cute ruby hair pieces in a few spots. Her make-up was similar to mine but without the bronze and her lips were a ruby red.

Once she was satisfied with how we looked it was time to get into our dresses. I was happy I was allowed to pick my own, even if they had offered me their opinions in the process.

The dress was different than what I was used to but I did love it The colousing was a swirling of black, white and various shades of bronzes. It had two thick straps that plunged into a semi-deep V into my chest, nothing too revealing but one that required the built in bra. Just under my chest was a black strip with a bow that added more shape to the dress. It reached down to about my knees and flowed both elegantly but still flirty around me. Alice insisted on heels but luckily I found a pair of black stripped peep toe heels with a thick three inch heel. The only jewelry I had on was the charm bracelet Edward gave me for Christmas since I never took it off unless I was showering or sleeping.

Rosalie's had chosen a purple tube dress that was layered in slants creating a smooth but spiked design to it. It ended I few inches above her knee and was paired with strappy silver/pink tinted heels that put her at nearly six feet.

Alice's dress was surprisingly simple, jet black in colour that had two thin straps secured by a silver emblem the middle of her chest and around her neck. However, she did spice it up a little with bright red pumps and colourful bracelets on both arms. She honestly looked like a beautiful but flirty china doll. Like Edward called me a few weeks ago, she was sinful but classy.

We left her room and went back downstairs, Alice quickly placing a sign on the stairs alerting the future partiers that upstairs was off limits. Well to everyone but the six of us. The party started at seven and was to go till one thirty so we still had about an hour before people started arriving.

The boys were in the basement watching a football game when we joined them. Edward's eyes widened before he grinned and pulled me in so he could kiss me. "Bella you look absolutely stunning." He said breathlessly. I looked into his eyes and I saw nothing but truth in them. I couldn't deny that every time he looked at me it was if I was the most beautiful woman in the world. I couldn't help but blush though I admit I felt a little smug.

"Thank you, you're not so bad yourself." Understatement of the century, if anyone was stunning it was him. He was dressed in a pair of dark wash jeans that were low on his hips with a green button down that brought out his eyes. He must have used the guest room at some point and tried to tame his hair with a bit of gel but gave up and allowed it to do its usual thing. I preferred it that way, his hair should never be messed with. Ever!

Alice put some music on softly for now before she went into the dinning room to make the punch. The hour seemed to go by fairly quickly and it was a little before seven when we heard the doorbell ring. Once that door was open it seemed like there was an endless chorus of chimes throughout the house as people arrived in hordes. Most of our senior year was here tonight since form what I heard Alice was throwing the biggest party for this year's New Year though it wasn't the only party tonight.

Alice was in her element, meeting and greeting with everyone and just exuding this cheerful energy that seemed to pulse through the room. Many brought their own drinks and the dining room table was now a make shift bar. People weren't getting smashed but almost everyone had at least nursed one drink this evening. It seemed pretty tame and under control.

Edward stayed by my side in the beginning but we separated after a little while to talk with friends. While there was always that slight pang of wanting to be nearer I was enjoying hanging out with the girls. Well most girls, I felt a few heated stares on me all night coming from a certain group of females; Tanya, Lauren and Jessica. I just ignored them and enjoyed the party.

Angela had just finished telling a joke that had most of us in tears when I felt that amazing energy behind me that always accompanied Edward. I turned around and smiled as he took my hand in his.

"Dance with me." He commanded with a big smile on his face.

"I must warn you now, you dance with me at your own discretion with the knowledge that I often cause toe and foot injuries." I joked, though I was half serious.

"I am aware and it`s most definitely worth the risk."

"Well then I accept your offer." I turned and looked back at my friends who had matching grins on their faces. "I'll talk to you guys later."

There was no real slow songs playing, a few softer than others, but he pulled me into a small revolution despite the beat. I wound my arms around his neck while his hands came down my waist, our faces close together.

He sighed. "This is how we should have been weeks ago."

I looked at him in confusion. "What do you mean."

"I should have just asked you to the winter formal, I wanted too. Alice gave me an earful for not doing just that but by the time I even thought of working up the courage Tanya asked me." He grimaced and I suppressed a smile.

"Is that what you two were arguing about in the cafeteria?" Now that I thougth back to that day it seemed pretty obvious actually. One mystery solved at least!

He chuckled. "Yup."

"Well the night still ended pretty well though anyway." I said gently before giggling as I remembered his performance.

He shook his head as if he was trying to get those same images out of his head. "You're never going to let me forget that night are you?"

"Nope!"

He smiled before his face became serious. "Would you have said yes if I asked you?" He seemed nervous for my answer.

I thought for a second before answering. "I believe I would have said yes. While you were still a royal pain in my ass," We both chuckled at that. "I really did like you and it grew stronger every day. You are way too charming for your own good."

"Well you're here now and since I never plan on letting go I guess that is all that matters." He said seriously before kissing my forehead. Okay I think my heart stopped beating for a second.

When I finally got my wits together I strengthened my hold. "Well that's good because you're stuck with me now."

We stopped our slow dancing for a while, tanking on a more energetic rhythm while he moved his body with mine. He kept me from falling and I was actually finding out that when I'm not tripping on my feet I can keep a beat!

He spun me in a circle with my right hand and I couldn't help but giggle even though I almost fell over but he quickly caught me, holding my body tightly with his. "I think you did that on purpose." I accused.

He smirked as he started rocking us back and forth again. "Did what on purpose?"

"Spin me so I would fall."

"You mean like this?" He spun me again and had to catch me again while I erupted into full blown laughter.

"Yes!"

"Hmmmm why ever would I do that?" He tilted his head to the side and gave me such an innocent expression. Too innocent.

"So you could catch me. See I have a theory." I said confidently.

"Oh really?" I nodded my head and he smiled. "And what would this theory be if I may ask?"

"You have a thing for saving the damsel in distress. You know, swooping in and saving the day before carrying the princess off into the sunset." I sound like the cheesiest fairytale right now. I wish I could blame it on the alcohol but I've only had one glass of Alice's punch.

He pulled me closer and I felt his lips by my ear. "I kinda like the sound of that. If you're the princess I guess that make me your prince huh. While I have no problem with carrying you off into the sunset I'm afraid I'm going to have to forgo the tights."

I rested my chin on his shoulder while a goofy smile lit up my face, god I am so far gone its not even funny. "I think that can be arranged. No tights but you have to throw in a horse." I teased and I could both feel and hear his chuckle.

"Deal." I could hear the smile in his voice while we continued to dance. We stayed like that for a while, slowly moving cheek to cheek even when the beat was contrary to our movements like earlier.

The song was about to change and I heard an obnoxious cough followed quickly by the smell of cheap perfume. The two of us looked over to see Tanya standing there with a huge ass fake smile on her face, her eyes eyeing Edward like a piece of meat.

"Mind if I cut in?" She asked sweetly. Edward looked down at me in horror and if I could read minds I'm pretty sure he would be screaming 'help me!' right about now. Good thing he didn't want to because no way was I letting her get her claws into him…literally.

"Actually I do, sorry Tanya." I said tightening my hold on him which he reciprocated.

"Don't you think you should share? It's just a dance." She practically sneered and I looked at her incredulously.

"Did you seriously just ask me to share my boyfriend?" I laughed loudly shaking my head in wonderment. She is either insane or dumber than a box of hammers. Most likely a mix of both. "He's a human being not a toy Tanya. Besides, I've never been much for sharing, must have missed that day in school." I shrugged and turned my head back to the man in front of me. I saw him purse his lips together trying to hold back laughter.

She walked off and I returned my attention to him. I was starting to get a little hot so I suggested we get something to drink.

"Alright, I could use some fresh air. Would you like to go outside for a few minutes? I'll get our drinks." I agreed and while he navigated through the crowd I grabbed my coat from the closet and went outside.

I wasn't the only one getting some fresh air but the few people who were outside were at the end of the drive way, many having a smoke. The Christmas lights that were still up illuminated much of the lawn and I was surprised to see that there were patches of clear sky where you could see the stars.

I stood off to the side and clutched my coat closer to me, a breeze making its way through. I heard footsteps approaching but when I looked rather than Edward standing there I saw Tanya. She glared at me while she gave me a menacing smile.

"Is there something I can help you with Tanya?" I said in a bored tone.

"You do realize he won't stay with you for long right? Your interesting now, the new shiny toy to play with it will waver, it always does."

There was a time when her words have gotten to me but not now, not when I know he picked me over her. Even if I wasn't confident I felt the metal on my wrist and it gave me the strength I needed. "Is that supposed to frighten me away from him because it's a sorry ass attempt if I do say so myself."

"You don't honestly believe he's going to stay with you?" She seemed to really believe that he would just leave.

"Actually I do. My relationship with Edward is just that, my relationship and none of your damn business. Only Edward and I know what is going on so why don't you just back off and get a life."

"You'll see I'll get him before the school years out." She smiled.

I laughed but even to my ears it was a little scary, it was dangerous. I slowly approached her so that we were face to face. Cavella was coming out to play. "I'm going to say this once so let me get this threw your thick skull of yours. Edward is not going to leave me for your skanky pathetic ass or anyone else for that matter. Edward is mine. Do you understand me? If you don't back off now you will wish you had." I saw a flash of fear and I won't deny it felt good. I turned my back on her and walked back to my spot but not before I heard her leave.

Just as I stopped I felt two warm hands come around my waist before turning me around and pinning me against the side of the house. I registered Edward's smell before his lips crashed to mine almost ferociously, possessing me completely I groaned into his mouth while we fought for dominance and I shivered in delight when I felt his hand rubbing up and down my thigh and hitching it onto his hip. I had never seen this side of Edward before and frankly I was loving it.

He pulled away after a moment, both of our chests heaving as we tried to replenish our oxygen. "Not that I'm complaining but what was that for?"

"I heard your conversation with Tanya." He admitted and my eyes widened. "I wasn't eavesdropping I swear, I was coming to find you when I heard you two talking."

"So you're okay with what I said?" I asked carefully, recalling several possessive words I may have used.

"Well I since I practically attacked you when she left I think its safe to assume I did indeed. Perhaps a little too much." He chuckled and nuzzled my neck. "Is it weird that I enjoyed you calling me yours, that you're possessive?"

"Nope."

"Are you mine?" I heard him whisper almost too quietly for me to hear.

"Completely." He held me tighter when the word left my lips.

We stood there for a minute wrapped in each others arms before he pulled away. I didn't realize I was shivering in the December air. "C'mon lets get inside, midnight is almost here." He said, leading me back into the throngs of people. I saw Tanya talking aggressively with Jessica and Lauren and as if she could sense my stare she turned around and glared at me. I couldn't help but smirk and wave before moving closer to Edward.

He was right, there was just under ten minutes until midnight. We joined are friends, who had taken up residence by the stereo system. When there was just over two minutes to go Alice turned off the music, grabbing every ones attention. She grabbed a chair and stood on it so people could see her, Jasper behind her making sure she didn't fall off in her heels.

"Alright everyone, two minutes to midnight!" She announced which was met by loud cheering. She switched to a radio station rather than her iPod so we could hear the official countdown.

Everyone paired up with significant others and friends as we waited and soon it was here. Everyone shouted as we counted down to the New Year

10

9

8

7

6

Edward cradled my face in his hands as we continued to count down.

5

4

3

2

1

"HAPPY NEW YEAR!" The room shouted, myself included, before my lips were claimed by Edward's. I'm not going to deny its always been one of my fantasies to be kissed at midnight on New Years eve and I wasn't disappointed. Thirty seconds later maybe I registered that there was confetti floating around me and when I looked to my right I saw Alice was back on the chair throwing it into the air.

"Alice you do realize you'll be cleaning that stuff up for weeks right?" I shouted over the voices.

She shrugged. "Totally worth it!" In a way she was right, the air looked like it was shimmering with multiple colours.

Within the next hour and a half people started to slowly make their way out and just after 1:30 the last person drove off. Alice had to keep a few sets of keys from people but made sure they hitched a ride with someone else and promising they can pick up their car tomorrow.

The mess wasn't too bad, thanks to the multiple garbage cans placed throughout the rooms, so we decided to leave it till the morning. The six of us were all crashing here tonight on air mattresses in the basement. She sent the boys downstairs to clear some room and get them pumped up, though luckily she had an electric pump.

Us three girls went back to Alice's room to remove the make-up and confetti from our hair. I moaned in delight when I removed the heels and dress that while both surprisingly comfortable, had been on for far too long.

"So do you think everyone enjoyed themselves?" Alice asked eagerly.

"I'm sure they did Alice, everyone seemed to." I told her. While she seemed confident I know Alice was secretly worried that her party would be a bust.

"Good! We have a hell of a clean-up tomorrow but it's a sacrifice that had to be made." I half expected her to say 'with great power comes great responsibility'.

I changed into the sleep set that Alice made me buy at Victoria's secret, and made me bring tonight. It wasn't anything special, a pair of short white and pink shorts matched with a snug pink t-shirt, Victoria's secret printed across the chest. It was a little more conservative that Alice and Rose. Alice wore a light grey striped short and tank top set that had peach lace on the edges. Rose had on an off white silk night gown that fell a few inches above the knee.

I walked down the steps to the living room slowly with Rose and Alice on either side of me, both cool as cucumbers but I already felt nervous. I loved my sleep set don't get me wrong, it was comfortable and it didn't show that much skin, mostly my legs and arms. It was Edward's reaction I was worried about. I was fairly confident he was physically attracted to me but I also have never been around him in so little clothing. I was afraid of either making it uncomfortable for him and me or worse if he didn't like what he saw. Where the hell did all my confidence from earlier go?

"Jesus Bella I can see the wheels turning in your head. Stop worrying, he will be very happy with what he sees. Beside its not like your wearing the baby doll, though that would be interesting just because you would probably give him a heart attack." Alice teased.

"Bella…" Rosalie sighed, the two stopping me in the hallway that led to the basement.

"What, I can't help it!" I whined. Crap even I was annoyed with my own voice on that one, when did I become such a self-conscious whiner.

Rose moved so she was standing in front of me, both hands on my shoulders. "Repeat after me. I am a strong, confident and sexy woman." This reminded me of Alice's bedroom a few weeks ago when she was trying to convince me Edward did like me, except this time I actually had to participate instead of just listening. These two are so different yet so similar sometimes it's scary.

"I am a strong, confident…" I started but apparently it wasn't up to par with Rosalie's standards with the look of disgust she gave me.

"That was pathetic so don't waste my time and do it properly and honestly. C'mon, head up, back straight and voice clear. Say it, you're not moving until you do." Her voice dead serious, her eyes fierce. Note to self, do not piss off Rose.

I took a deep breath and did as she asked. "I am a strong, confident and sexy woman." And as this last word fell from my mouth I felt it, I felt like that. I smiled and Rosalie smirked, clearly satisfied with her work.

"Feels good doesn't it." Alice said cheerfully, giving me a wink.

Rose grinned. "There's hope for you yet Swan now let's get down there before they do something more idiotic than usual."

I could hear the boys joking around as we came down the stairs to the basement where we were all crashing on air mattresses. When we came into view Jasper and Edward's backs were to us but Emmett looked up and cat whistled. "Wow looking good girls!" He sent us a wink.

Edward and Jasper looked up and while Jasper smirked Edward's eyes widened before I swear they darkened, his mouth hanging out a bit. That's a good thing right? I couldn't help the blush that came over my face while I fidgeted with the hem of my shirt. C'mon Bella, grow a back bone and flaunt what your mother gave ya! That voice cheered and I wanted to groan. Cavella had been pretty silent for a while and now she's back and I am crazy once again.

Still, I had to stop doubting myself. I looked good and I should feel good. With my quick internal prep talk and Rosalie's words floating around mind I felt my head raise a bit and I stopped fiddling with my shirt.

"What did I say Alice, he looks at her like she's something to eat." Rose whispered smugly and I could swear there was also pride in her voice.

I turned my head to glare at her. "Rose!" I hissed. Alice giggled to my right. We made our way over to our men and I wound my arms around his neck which seemed to be a popular place for me to be lately.

"Are you trying to kill me?" He whispered into my ear before I felt his nose run up and down the side of my neck. Is that a good thing? I think it is, yes I'm pretty sure that's a good thing. He took a deep breath and I bit back a giggle, he was sniffing me again. I think it was a fetish of his but I knew not to bring it up, it was actually kinda flattering. God knows I love his smell.

"Ummm no that wasn't my intention." I whispered back but it sort came out as a gasp since I felt him press his lips to my jugular. I'm not going to deny I really liked that. I pulled back and latched my lips to his with vigor and he returned it in full.

"Oh hell not again!" Emmett suddenly boomed and we broke apart only to see everyone staring at us with varying expressions. Rosalie looked pleased, Alice looked like she was trying not to laugh, Jasper looked on approvingly while Emmett seemed to be on the fence between pride and disgust. "Okay new rule for sleeping, no fornicating with other people in the room. I'm serious bro, exhibitionism is strictly prohibited while I'm here." Okay I blushed at that.

"Seriously Emmett, fornicating? Where did you get that one, your word of the day calendar?" Edward asked, shaking his head while I laid my cheek against his chest.

Emmett smiled widely and nodded. "Actually I did, you wanna hear the official definition?" A chorus of no's shouted throughout the room but he ignored us and continued anyway. "It means voluntary sexual intercourse between persons not married to each other." He said proudly looking like he deserved a god star or something.

Alice walked up to him and crooked her finger, asking him to bend down a little. He looked confused but did so which was quickly followed by her patting him on the head like a dog. "I'm so proud of you Emmett, now you can pass the fifth grade." She cooed with a dazzling smile. He straightened up and scowled but I could see the ghost of a smile on his lips.

Everyone including me started laughing and Jasper even whipped a tear from his eye. "Go ahead and laugh but that thing has taught me more in a year than four years of high school English ever did!" He defended but it just made us laugh harder. Even Rosalie, who usually would have smacked him at this point, was clutching her side slightly trying to fight off her giggles.

I let out a huge yawn, trying to cover it with my hand but it didn't seem to do any good since it started a chain of yawns throughout the room. "No fair Bella, you know yawns are contagious." Alice complained from behind her hand.

"Its going on 2:30, we should get some sleep guys especially if we're going to have time to clean up." Jasper said, always the responsible one. We all agreed as each couple went to their on mattress, Alice quickly dashing to turn off the light so that the only source of light was from the clock on her satellite box.

Edward entwined our hands together as he lowered us onto the blankets and I couldn't help the fast pace of my heart. He was flat on his back and pulled me into his side, my head half on the pillow and half in the crook of his neck. He wound his arms around me and I snuggled deeper into his body, my one arm draping across his torso. "Is this alright." He whispered and I nodded. It didn't take long before I felt myself drifting off into sweet oblivion but just before I did I felt the soft pressure of lips on my head.

When I was slowly regaining consciousness hours later I was aware of several distinct things. First I was smelling the most delicious aroma in the world that was without a doubt Edward. Second, my body had somehow molded perfectly to his form as I was practically on top of him at this point, our legs entangled together and his arms wrapped around me protectively. Third, I could hear whispered voices and giggles not to far away. Lastly, there had been several flashes from behind my eye lids that were confusing the hell outta me.

"They are too cute together but I always knew they would be." I heard Alice whisper to someone. I saw yet another flash and I was debating on whether or not to open my eyes. The problem was I was so comfortable where I currently was that I didn't want to move even a fraction of an inch, even if that movement was merely my eye lids.

"Jesus Alice, get a grip on yourself you're acting as if you've never seen two people sleeping before. I would think with the sheer number of pictures you've taken that you were making a scrap book or something. They haven't moved in the last five minutes, do you really need ten thousand duplicates of the same pose?" Rosalie asked and I could almost see her eyes roll.

"Rosalie make Alice go away." I mumbled, my voice hoarse from sleep. I didn't bother moving, too comfortable to even bother.

"Hey I resent that comment." Alice said.

"Alice let's leave them alone and hand over the camera." Rose said.

"C'mon Bella its time to get up, Jazz and Em just left to go get us some greasy breakfast to ring in his new year."

"Bella no wake, Bella sleep." I grumbled, sounding like a mentally challenged cave girl. Welcome to the dark side. Cavella said and I did my best to ignore her.

"But…"

"Alice come get us when the food arrives, until then scram." Edward said sleepily, tightening his hold around me and burying his face into my hair. Well apparently he was awake.

I heard her huff before stomping off towards the stairs. "Fine." The door shut a moment later and it was completely silent except for our breathing. I just inched impossibly closer to him while I felt one of his hands make its way into my hair, running strands of it through his fingers. I sighed in contentment, seriously I could fall asleep and wake up like this every single day and never get sick of it.

"My hairs probably a rats nest so watch your fingers don't get trapped." I teased.

He shrugged. "Don't care."

"Alright, they're your fingers."

We were silent for a while, his fingers continuing to twirl pieces of my hair while my head rested on his chest. "Did you know you talk in your sleep?" He said all of a sudden and I felt my body stiffen. Oh no! I was aware of this given the many times my parents gave me a play by play of what I would say sometimes. I'm not nearly as bad as I was when I was younger but it still occasionally happens. Crap, what did I say?

I was very awake all of a sudden. I raised my head off his chest and hoisted myself onto my knees so I was looking down at him. "What did you hear?" I said cautiously.

"It's not important, come back." He whined, trying to pull me back down on him but I scooted further away from his grasp and narrowed my eyes.

"Edward tell me what I said."

He tried to hide it but I saw his mouth twitching into his infamous crooked grin. Damn it couldn't be good. "Bella come on, it was nothing." He insisted the big liar.

"Your smirk tells me something different. Either you tell me or I'm going upstairs to wait for Jasper and Emmett to bring breakfast." I raised my eye brow in defiance and crossed my arms.

He sighed in defeat but it lost some of its weight with the smile on his face growing. "Well I never realized how much you liked my ummm quote sex hair. I'll admit its never been refered to like that before but its without my favorite." He said chuckling and my face lit up in bright red.

"Oh god shoot me now." I mumbled as my hands came and blocked my face from his sight.

I heard him chuckle before I felt his arms around me, pulling me back down into his body. "Hey I thought it was cute, no need to feel embarrassed." He said soothingly, running his hands up and down my arm.

"Is that all I said?" I peaked through my fingers to see his face.

"Pretty much, you said my name a few times and I think you mumbled something about ninjas attacking the blonde strawberries but it made no sense." He laughed and I couldn't help but laugh with him. "What were you dreaming about anyway? My hair is pretty self explanatory but ninjas attacking strawberries? That's a whole new level of weird Bella."

I smacked his chest lightly while he continued to laugh even though I was laughing with him. "Shut up it's not funny!"

"Yes it is. Now tell me were these ninja's also strawberries or some other fruit? Oh I got it, they were pears everyone knows they are the mortal enemies of the strawberry." He teased.

I narrowed my eyes at him before smiling, my hands quickly going to the spot on his side I know is ticklish. He jerked back before a wicked glint came into his eye. "Oh is that how we're going to play it huh, underhanded tickle attacks? You sure you want to do this Miss. Swan?"

I stuck out my chin in defiance. "I'm not scared of you."

His smile became menacing and I resisted the urge to run. "You really shouldn't have said that." He said before lunging at me, pinning me to the mattress, shackling my wrists in one of his hands above my head while the other ghosted down my side before it delved into my flesh. I broke out in hysterics as he tortured me, tears running down my face as I gasped for air.

"Ed...Edward please…stop I…I can't take it." I gasped out between burst of laughter, my stomach muscles protesting. I tried wiggling free but I couldn't.

"Can't take what Bella?"

"Please…!" Was all I was able to get out as he continued his assault. I am so planning revenge. Someday he will be under my mercy!

"Am I scary Bella? Will you taunt me again?" He asked, a smile in his voice that made him sound anything but threatening but I wasn't going to tell him that.

"Yes yes….You're a…a terrifying monster!" I choked out and finally he stopped, releasing my hands while I clutched my stomach. I narrowed my eyes at him while I regained my breath but he just grinned and looked at me with innocent eyes. I scrambled up, pushing him away while he chuckled. "I hate you, you know." I growled, standing up. It was a complete lie.

He laughed and stood up beside me. "No you don't." He said, stepping closer to me and I stepped back.

"Yes I do."

"No you don't" He took another step forward and I took another back.

"Yes I do!"

Suddenly I was wrapped in his arms, his breath fanning across my neck. I shivered and I heard him chuckle. "C'mon Bella you know you love me." He teased as he started kissing my neck.

I froze for a second at his words.

Love…he said I loved him.

Did I love him?

I wasn't sure, I've never been in love before and we haven't been together long. Not that there's a time limit on love, its unpredictable that is what makes it both exilerating and frightening all at once. You can't put a time stamp on emotions but even then it seems a little soon right?

Yes?

No?

Maybe?

Okay let me think about this. All I know is when I see him I feel my heart speeds up and I feel both excited and calm at the same time. I miss him even when it's only been a few hours we've been apart and he often consumes my thoughts completely. He makes me laugh like no other and when he talks I hang onto every word. I can't stand to see him upset and whenever he touches me I feel like I'm on fire. He makes me happy.

While I was mulling this over my body seemed to naturally fold into his while he continued his ministrations on my neck. He pulled back a moment later and looked down at me, his eyes bright and my favorite smile in place. As I met his gaze I almost gasped when it hit me.

Holy crap I was in love with Edward Cullen!

I felt my heart expand and a blush coat my cheeks while I returned his smile. "See I knew you didn't hate me." He said gently before claiming my lips. While my mouth moved effortlessly with his I decided not to tell him, not yet. I would soon, I knew I couldn't hold it back for too long but I don't think I was ready to bear my heart out there just yet not knowing how he feels. Instead I threw myself into the kiss, hoping to convey without words just how much he meant to me.

A few minutes later I heard the basement door open and light footsteps hurry down. "Jasper and Em are back with breakfast so hurry up and get your butts upstairs!" Alice said, her hand on her hip.

"Ya ya we're coming." Edward said as he grabbed my hand and led me towards the stairs. I was still in a bit of a daze from my realization and from the kiss so I followed him blindly, my feet moving on their own accord.

When I looked at Alice she cocked her head to the side and looked at me strangely as if she saw something different about me. I raised a questioning eyebrow at her but she just shook her head and headed back upstairs in front of us. I couldn't stop touching Edward, not that I never did before but now I just wanted to near him even more. If he noticed he didn't say anything.

Emmett and Jazz arrived about a half an hour later with stacks of Styrofoam containers filled with food from the lodge. Breakfast was a quiet but pleasant affair with light conversation. When we finished Alice jumped up and clasped her hands together.

"Time to clean!"

And the torture begins.

Okay, I hope you guys liked that chapter. It was huge! But i fgured with the almost two month wait **cringes** it was the least I could do. Am I still loved? Was it worth it?

All images will be on my profile so if your interested or curious check it out. I'm not sure who wrote the poem, it didn't name to author.

I'll get working on chap 15 ASAP. I estimate around 4-5 more chapters to go give or take.