AN: I know the past few months have been annoying while you waited patiently, and I sincerely apologize. I thank you for sticking with me as we hit this final chapter in our story.
I'm not marking it as complete because I still have at least one outtake to post here. If there any others you'd like to see, feel free to let me know and I'll definitely take them into consideration!
Big thanks to OneofEddiesGirls and GGSophie who stepped in to pre-read, and our awesome ysar for beta'ing under such short notice! Longer note at the end, if you care to see me gushing more about you wonderful readers. ;-)
Chapter 25: Parachute
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I don't need a parachute
Baby, if I've got you
Baby, if I've got you
I don't need a parachute
You're gonna catch me
You're gonna catch me
If I fall
Down, down, down
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Parachute by Ingrid Michaelson
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Bella played with a few switches on the control panel, saving her latest recording session, before heading upstairs for bed. She glanced at the clock and frowned when she noticed it was well past eleven o'clock. Edward would more than likely be asleep already, and she'd miss her goodnight kiss.
Shutting off the lights as she made her way through the house, she marveled at how quickly he'd been able to get it all finished in the past months since she'd moved from Los Angeles. The only project Edward had yet to complete was the add-on library that he thought she'd enjoy. Bella smiled as she recalled his reasoning.
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"I think it's a great idea," he cajoled, kissing her on the neck as they were lying in bed one night.
"But isn't it a bit excessive? I mean, I love you and the fact that you want to build something like that for me, but I don't want to take you away from more important projects."
Edward leaned on his elbow and smiled down at her. "Nothing is too good for you, Princess."
She sighed, feeling every last defense melt with his heartfelt words. She brought her lips to his and kissed him softly.
"I love you so much. You know that, right?" Bella whispered in the quiet of their bedroom.
"I know," he replied, resting his forehead against hers. "As for the library, we can make it multi-functional if it makes you happy."
She cocked an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
Edward smirked, an impish look overtaking his features. "Well, we can make it a library/office. We'll add a big desk and a computer. Maybe our kids can do their homework in there someday."
Bella felt a warm tug in her chest as tears stung her eyes. "Kids?" she asked tentatively. Although she had nothing against them, they had never talked about that part of their future before.
"Well, yeah. I mean, we haven't talked about it, but you know where I stand. You're it for me. I want to marry you and start a family." Edward swallowed before continuing nervously. "Is that—is that something you don't want?"
She smiled reassuringly and kissed him. "I'd love to have your babies someday. Until then, practice makes perfect, you know?"
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Bella let her gaze fall over the half-finished room and allowed herself a quick vision of their future. A copper-haired boy sat on a comfy couch, reading to his little sister from her favorite book. The sight warmed her heart and brought tears to her eyes. She'd never really pictured herself as a mother, but with Edward, she wanted it. She knew without a doubt that he'd be a terrific father.
She smiled and shook her head slightly before closing the door and heading upstairs. So far, she'd been able to keep a low profile and the media had yet to find her. But she and Edward knew it was just a matter of time, and they were prepared to face the fallout side-by-side. This time around, she was determined to fight for their life together; she'd give it her all.
As she turned down the hall toward their room, she heard the television playing an all too familiar interview. She leaned against the doorjamb, watching Edward as he leaned back against the headboard and gazed intently at the big screen.
"Why do you insist on watching that over and over?" she asked, amusement clear in her voice.
He glanced over at her and shrugged, giving her a breath-taking smile. "I don't know... Because you look hot in that outfit?"
Bella rolled her eyes and walked over to the bed, toeing off her shoes as she went. She climbed into onto their massive king-sized bed and over to her boyfriend's waiting arms. She rested her head against his chest and settled back to re-watch part of her and James' interview with Barbara Walters.
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Barbara: Thank you for joining me this evening.
Izzy: It's a pleasure, Barbara! We're happy to be here, right James?
James smiles softly at his companion and nods.
James: Yes, we are.
Barbara leans back and folds her hands in her lap .
B: I hear there's something you want to talk about?
Izzy nods this time, gesturing for James to take the lead.
J: There are a lot of rumors floating around, and we'd just like to set a few of them straight.
B: Shall we get straight to main question? What exactly is your relationship status?
James chuckles before responding.
J: You don't pull any punches, do you?
Barbara laughs and gives him a smile.
J: Well, we've gone on record before, stating that we're the best of friends, who love each other. That's one hundred percent true. But our relationship feels more like a brother/sister one than boyfriend/girlfriend.
B: Then why would you want to trick the whole world into thinking otherwise?
J: I guess it would make a bit more sense if I start at the beginning. When I was in high school, I started to notice that I was…different…from the other kids. I was attracted to boys, as well as girls. My family is very religious, so I was made to believe that being gay, or bisexual in my case, was a sin. So, I kept my feelings to myself and did my best to hide them away.
James pauses, lost in thought. Izzy places her hand in his, bringing him back to the present. He gives her a quick smile before continuing his tale.
J: When I moved to Hollywood in my pursuit of an acting career, it was a completely different world. I felt free and unashamed for the first time in years. I owe a lot of that to the first man I attempted to date. His name was Laurent, and he was wise beyond his years. As my fame started to rise, I decided to keep my orientation under wraps so that my family wouldn't find out.
B: That must have been difficult for you.
J: It wasn't so bad. I mean, not nearly as bad as it was completely hiding my feelings. As long as I was discreet and chose the right partners, my secret was safe. Having my best friend pose as my girlfriend for the past few years made it much easier, I admit.
Izzy blushes and shakes her head in response to a wink that James sends her way.
Barbara turns in her seat to focus her attention on Izzy.
B: Why did you choose to pretend with James?
Izzy smiles and shrugs slightly.
I: He was my friend. It's honestly that simple. I was dating no one at the time and had no interest in doing so. To me, it wasn't a big deal.
Barbara glances down at some notes before shifting the topic of conversation.
B: It's been speculated around town that Izzy's had some recent issues with security. What's the truth behind that?
I: Early last year, I started receiving sweet little notes from one particular fan. Over the course of the summer, the notes became increasingly possessive and disturbing. James and my agent, Tanya, talked me into hiring extra security—to no avail, really. On Christmas Eve, after I returned from a party with James, a note and a picture of me sleeping were waiting for me on my bed.
Izzy visibly shudders.
I: I panicked and slipped out in the middle of the night, without anyone noticing me.
B: And that leads us into our next topic. As you know, mystery regarding your childhood is always a hot topic with your fans. In previous interviews, you've always replied 'no comment' or outright refused to broach the subject. Is that a fair statement?
Izzy smiles sadly.
I: Yes, that's definitely a fair statement. I grew up in a small town, raised by my dad. He and my mom divorced when I was a baby, and she moved away. I didn't see her again until my dad passed away when I was thirteen. She packed up all of my stuff and barely let me say goodbye to the people I loved before whisking me off to live with her and her husband in L.A.
Izzy takes a deep breath, letting it out with a sigh.
I: I never wanted to talk about my childhood because I rarely allowed myself to think about it. I lost my dad, my best friend who was like my brother, and an uncle all in one fell swoop. It was painful to think about.
Barbara nods sympathetically.
B: Understandably so. Why didn't you keep in touch with them when you moved?
I: My mother forced me to cut all ties, not wanting to be reminded of that "podunk little town." After she passed away a few years ago, I allowed myself to think that too much time had passed. I was insecure enough to think that no one would even remember me.
Izzy smiles sweetly.
I: Back in December, I gathered up enough courage to go back home and find out for myself. I was scared about the stalker and nervous about being welcomed back there. In reality, I had nothing to worry about. They'd loved me and missed me as much as I did them. I even made some new friends on my journey. It was an eye-opening experience.
B: I understand that your stalker issue was resolved, and that several individuals are in police custody as a result?
I: You are correct. L.A.P.D. handled the whole situation thoroughly.
Barbara smiles.
B: That's good to hear. And now that we're full circle, where will the future lead the two of you?
J: We're always going to be friends, but the truth is out there now, so we'll both be free to pursue other interests.
B: Are there any prospects on that front? Is there anyone special in either of your lives?
James shakes his head 'no' and smirks, nudging Izzy with his elbow.
J: No one for me, but Iz has a handsome beau. I'm jealous of her.
Izzy blushes and bites her lip as she smiles.
B: Anyone we know, Izzy?
Izzy shakes her head.
I: No. We're taking his acclimation to the insanity of my public life slowly. It can be a bit much to deal with. I want to make sure it doesn't make him run screaming in the opposite direction.
Barbara laughs.
B: I completely understand what you mean. Well, thank you so much for telling your story to me, and I wish you both the best of luck in the future!
Izzy leans forward and hugs Barbara quickly.
I: Thank you for having us! We appreciate it.
The camera pans forward to focus only on Barbara.
B: And thank to all of you at home for joining us. Good night!
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Bella snatched the remote out of Edward's hands, clicking the off button.
"I really don't know why you keep watching that," she murmured, leaning down to lay a kiss upon his chest.
His cheeks darkened with a blush, which still made her heart melt. "I just... You stood up for us, for our relationship. Forgive me for being a romantic sap about it."
Overcome with emotion, she placed her hands on his chest and leaned down to kiss him with every ounce of love she could muster.
"I promise you I will always fight for you. My running days are over," she whispered against his lips.
She felt him smile just before he flipped their positions, pressing his hips into hers so she could feel his erection.
"Words are cheap, Dwyer. Why don't you show me?" he replied huskily.
Not wanting to back down from his challenge, she showed him...multiple times.
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One year later
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Bella stood on the balcony of a penthouse suite in Seattle. The skyline was beautiful, but her eyes were unfocused, simply staring at nothing as her mind whirled with tumultuous thoughts. She had a beautiful home and gorgeous husband waiting for her back in Forks, but here she was in Seattle, letting her insecurities eat away at her.
She'd been in meetings off and on all day with Tanya and some execs from Volturi Records. She had a new album coming out, and they were pushing hard for her to do a world tour. Frustrations abounded because she was steadfast in her decision to not tour for this one. They couldn't understand, and really it was her own fault for not divulging her reasons why. But she couldn't share with them the news that Edward deserved to hear first.
She gently ran a hand across her still-flat stomach and felt butterflies erupt inside. This pregnancy was completely unplanned, and while it made her nervous, it also sparked excitement. She had no worries as to how her husband would take the news; she knew he'd be thrilled, even with the less than stellar timing. They'd been married only three months when she'd had to head back into the studio for her fourth album. Now, six months later, she was trying to talk herself out of going on a world tour. Even though she was probably only about six weeks pregnant, she not only didn't want to jeopardize her baby, but she didn't want to be away from Edward for months.
She drove into Seattle yesterday afternoon and checked into the hotel, planning to be refreshed and ready for the series of meetings today where she'd be discussing upcoming plans. She'd been fully willing to go on a promotion tour for the new album, so when she showed up today, pale and stressed out, everyone was taken aback by her sudden opposition.
She'd woken up, drenched in sweat, and jumped from bed to empty the contents of her stomach. It wasn't the first time it happened, so she thought nothing of it until she spied the pair of complimentary tampons in the drawer next to the sink. She rushed out to her phone and pulled up the calendar, checking the dates.
"Shit," she whispered into the dark.
Bella pulled on her jeans from the previous day along with one of Edward's hoodies that she'd brought along for comfort. Silently making her way out of the hotel and to the nearby 24 hour Walgreens, she thanked her lucky stars that she made it there and back without being noticed. She pulled the box from her bag and carefully read the directions. Ten minutes later, she was sitting on the bathroom floor in shock, sobs clogging her throat.
There was too much going on in her life right now; there was no way she could be a mother. But the reality was what it was, and the more she pictured her baby-to-be, the more her worries took a back burner. Her main concern now was that she put off these managerial meetings long enough to talk everything over with her husband. There was no way she'd be making any decisions without his input; she'd learned from her past mistakes.
Now that left her tired and annoyed at having been questioned and argued with all day long. She firmly refused the world tour, but she conceded that everything was negotiable and explained that she just needed some time to think. Tanya was worried and tried to get her to spill, but Bella remained adamant that she'd tell her soon, just not right now. With some reluctance, Tanya let it slide, but the other execs demanded she come back to the meetings tomorrow since nothing had been accomplished today.
She sighed and closed her eyes, taking in the cool, fresh nighttime air. She turned and went back inside. Just as she slid the glass closed behind her, a knock sounded at her door. She glanced at the clock, which read almost one in the morning, and walked over to look out the peep hole.
Gasping, she yanked the door open and flung herself at her husband. He wrapped his arms around her, maneuvering inside carefully. A small sob escaped her throat, and Edward sat down on the couch, sitting his wife on his lap and rubbing her back gently.
"Ssh, baby," he gently cooed in her ear. "Tell me what's wrong, so I can fix it." If there was one thing he could never stand, it was the sight of her tears.
"It's not that simple," she replied softly as she hiccuped, trying to stem her tears.
"Talk to me," he implored.
She leaned back and gazed into his worried green eyes.
"How did you know I needed you?" she asked.
"Tanya called me earlier and said you were upset about something, so I got in the car and drove. Now, stop stalling. Please."
She sighed. "I'm pregnant."
His eyes widened comically before letting out a laugh. "That's all? I thought someone was dying, Bella."
She narrowed her eyes and smacked him on the shoulder. "That's all?" she mimicked him. "Yes, that's all! The timing is terrible! I've got a new album coming out, and they want me to go on a world tour. A world tour, Edward!"
She got to her feet and started to pace in front of him, waving her hands as she spoke.
"I can't hop from place to place, country to county while I'm pregnant. I'll be exhausted and bitchy, and it'll be dangerous for our kid."
She swore and sat down in an arm chair, resting her elbows on her knees and burying her head in her hands. "I can't do this," she said in a quiet voice. "I can't be someone's mother."
Even though she couldn't see him, Edward smiled before coming over to kneel in front of his wife. He gently made her sit back, and then he took her hands in his as he looked her in the eyes.
"Princess, you are going to be an awesome mother. Don't doubt yourself."
"But how?" she wailed. "We can barely go to the grocery store without some asshole shoving a camera in our faces. How can I do that to my baby? I've had the shit end of the stick when it came to a motherly role model."
Edward cupped her cheeks, wiping away her tears with his thumbs. "That's one of the reasons you'll be an awesome mom, baby. You know what it's like to not have one, so you'll make sure to be the best that you can be. I have faith in you, Bella."
"As for the rest of the stuff, we'll make it work, Princess. Our son or daughter will be protected and loved. Stop worrying and just embrace the happy part."
She shifted forward and placed her lips against his, kissing him soundly. Her hands wound themselves in his hair, and she tugged softly, enjoying the quiet moan that fell from his lips.
"Take me to bed, Edward," she murmured huskily.
"Shouldn't we talk more first?" He stood, belying his words and bringing her with him to wrap her legs around his waist as he started walking toward the bedroom.
She laughed for the first time in days and circled her arms around his neck. "We can talk later, but right now I need to make love to my husband."
Edward dropped her on the bed and grinned. "Your wish is my command."
The pair slowly peeled off each other's clothes, taking their time to caress and kiss languidly. The moment was more about reconnecting and sharing their joy. Hours later, Bella lay with her head on Edward's shoulder, softly playing with the hair on his chest.
"Do you really think I'll be a good mom?" she asked in a timid voice.
"Yes, I truly do," he replied without hesitation.
After a few minutes of silence, he spoke again. "What are you going to do tomorrow?"
"Well, now that I've talked to you, I can share my reasons why I don't want to do the tour. If anything, I'm sure Aro will understand my decision. He's mentioned before how he regretted losing so much time with his daughter while he built his empire."
She shifted up on her elbow to look him in the eye. "What would you say if I gave it up?"
He arched a brow. "Gave what up? Music?"
"Yes, what if, after this album of course, I walked away?"
Edward reached up and tucked a strand of hair behind her head. "If that's what you want to do, then I'll stand behind you. Are you sure?"
She smiled sadly and shook her head. "No, I'm not sure. But for now, I want to be a mom to this baby. Being on tour and rarely home won't allow me to do that. Plus, it's not like I don't have money to spare."
"You know it's never been about the money, Princess. You write and sing because you love it. Maybe you can take the time off you want and then go back in a few years. Or even keep writing and letting other people sing your songs."
"That's a great idea. I'll talk to Tanya tomorrow. See? This is why I keep you around."
He reached out and grabbed her, rolling until she was pinned underneath him.
"I'll show you just why you keep me around," he growled playfully before searing her lips with a passionate kiss.
What had started out as a harebrained idea to avoid a stalker turned into something so much more than Bella had ever expected. Before, she was facing a life of loneliness, boredom, and uncertainty. Now, she was surrounded by family and love. She'd traded her rabbit heart for a lion's, ready to fight for what she loved. She would forever be grateful for reconciling with her family and for meeting the love of her life. She'd never take any of it for granted again. That was a promise she would keep for the rest of her life.
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Chapter song: Parachuteby Ingrid Michaelson
(Not, it is not the same song as my other story, just the same title. I thought it'd be cute and fitting)
AN:
First off, I am so happy you're here with me, reading this. I know it's been incredibly frustrating for you as readers to have had to wait this long for our final chapter. I have a list of excuses and crap that happened, but none of that matters now. What odes matter is that we're here now, closing this final chapter together.
I'm so damned thankful to you who have read, reviewed, pimped, or a combination of all of them. I never would've gotten this far without you guys, and I want you to know how much it means to me!
My love and adoration goes out to ysar, who picked me up eight months ago when beta drama knocked me down. You've been an inspiration, and I'm glad to have you in my corner.
Thanks and adulation to the women who've pre-read and kept me on my toes for most of this story: GGSophie, StupidLambTanya, and MinaRivera. I'll always be grateful. Same goes to the wonderful ladies who WC with me on a regular basis and keep me sane. There are too many to mention by name, and I definitely don't want to leave anyone out, but know that you guys rock my world!
I still have plans for my other stories, Somewhere Out There, Accidentally in Love, Over My Head, and The End Where I Begin. My plan is write most them before I start posting, so I don't disappoint any of my readers should real life pop up and kick me in the ass. ;-)
Again, thank you so very much for your support. Words cannot describe the amount of appreciation and love I have for each and every one of you! I've written this story because you wanted to read, it's as simple as that. Without your support, it would've never come to be.