Chapter 25: Christmas Eve & Morning

Jasper POV

"You can really see that far, Sugar?" I asked Alice while we lay in our bed, wrapped up in each other.

"Yes, I can. It's wonderful. So many extraordinary things are headed our way. Every vision is like a new surprise I get to open." She told me, happily.

"I thought it was unusual that my visions seemed to be expending, and that the wolves no longer blocked them. Now, I get the feeling it has a lot to do with a certain Greek God, sending me a power boost or something." She told me.

I could feel the wonderment, amusement and overall certainty from her as she spoke. Still, I wanted to ask her something I had been worried to ask her earlier, with the entire family around. Just as I thought about how to formulate the question in my mind, she answered it for me.

"I am not upset or feeling left out of the baby making. Not. At. All." She said with an amused giggle, then continued. "I might not remember my humanity, but I have never felt, the least bit, maternal. I never questioned why, but I can tell you I am perfectly happy to be everyone's favorite Aunty Alice or Godmother – as I've seen I will be. Those kids will always know they can count on me for anything, not to mention how well dressed they always be. Jaz, I am truly happy for Bella, and over the moon for Rosalie and Leah, but I'm not a momma." She told me and I felt her genuine feelings on the matter, making me grateful.

I didn't know what I might have done if she had become pregnant, or wanted to be.

"Jasper. Did you… want to be a father?" She asked seriously while interrupting my thoughts, and I felt her worry about what my answer would be, so I was quick to reassure her. Once again, I grateful that we were on the same page, as usual.

"No, sugar. I'm relieved you feel that way. I was just thinkin' what I would have done, if you felt differently. I'm glad we're on the same page. Nothing against kids or nothin' but I can't see myself as a daddy; I wouldn't even know where to start. I guess that will make me the cool Uncle Jaz, to your Favorite Aunty Alice." I told her with a chuckle and was rewarded with her adorable tinkling laughter.

I was feeling everyone's emotions from within the household, along with Alice's delight. Since none of them were feeling any negativity, and everyone was in great spirits, I allowed myself to be filled with it all, and I would share little bursts of it with Alice. I guess you could call this an empath vampire's equivalent of getting high.

The night was spent mostly the same way - different couples' mating could be heard faintly, as everyone tried to maintain a level of respect for all the sonic ears in the house. Everything was peaceful. This bliss, this over-all joy, is exactly what I'd always longed for before I had my Alice. I rejoiced in it and in her.

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Emmett POV

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When I awoke in this new life, Rosie became my everything. Through the years, as I regained some of my human memories, I remembered myself playing with several nieces, nephews and plenty of little cousins. I also recalled that I wanted children of my own, but I kept those memories to myself. I knew they would only serve to hurt her, so I let that dream die off.

I kept one foot on the ground, while I cuddled with my Rosie on the back-porch hammock, so I could swing us slowly in the night's breeze. She was drawing lazy little circles on my chest and I was rubbing her back soothingly. Every now and again, she would sigh and when I asked her about it, she had answered that she kept thinking of our babies. She kept a hand on her lower belly, so she could better feel our baby's heart beat all night.

As we swung, she told me how much she had always wished against hope, to have a family with me. She longed to watch our children playing in the yard, with us watching from our rocking chairs and growing old together. She only ever shared this dream with me during her darkest of moments, because it always caused such profound sadness for her. This time, her happiness and excitement was palpable, as she spoke of our little family. We talked the whole night and we concluded, that neither of us cared if it they were boys or girls, or one of each. We were both thrilled to have this opportunity at all.

We also spoke of our amazement at how little we truly knew of the various creatures in existence. I felt surprised that, even after living so long, we were just learning of some of those species and their abilities. It was happening so often lately, and I loved it. Vampires, Werewolves, Shifters, Panlong, Diwata, Wizards and Witches… and if those weren't enough, we also learned that the Gods of Greek Mythology were real too.

Imagine our surprise to learn of Rosalie's heritage. Well, I'd always known she was my goddess, and I old her so. But now … now, we all knew it was a truth. I cuddled her impossibly closer as I thought of how blessed I am. Zeus has granted us a miracle, by allowing her to be a mother and me a father. I also kept my hand together with hers on her abdomen, and felt the wonder of life within her. My mind to wandered over all amazing parenting adventures that await us, and I promised myself that I would not take a single second for granted.

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Jared POV

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Leah said her goodbyes on the phone to my Uncle Billy, wearing one of the loveliest smiles I'd ever seen on her. It was hard to think of a time that she wasn't everything to me, regardless of how short a time ago that was. She had just shared our phenomenal news and I heard Billy offer his Quileute congratulations and blessings. She also asked him if he would come tomorrow, for lunch at the Cullens. Even though I was now the Chief, everyone still admired my Uncle Billy a great deal, and I loved her even more for including him.

Apparently, Bella had already called him earlier with the Christmas Lunch invitation. When he explained that Jakes older twin sisters, Rachel and Rebecca were also in town, Bella had invited his daughters, my cousins, as well. He promised to let them know, but I heard him tell her it might be awkward, because Paul had imprinted on my cousin, Rachel earlier today. What a crazy and wonderful day, in deed – I thought to myself with a smile.

Even though Christmas was a, fairly, recently added holiday for our tribe, my pack was all headed to the reservation early in the morning, to take part in the celebrations. Afterwards, Leah and I would bring Sue over to see the Cullens, and to finalize any last-minute wedding and reception details.

With everything else going on, I still marveled at the idea that soon, Leah would be making me a dad. We were going to have little pups running around and I was beyond thrilled. I pulled her into my arms after she'd hung up, and proceeded to show her just how much I loved her.

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Carlisle POV

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By the time Es and I had retreated to our room, she was friskily all over me and I naturally gave into her passionate embrace. For many years after her change, she battled her urges against her mind. She tried, so hard, to remain a lady she was brought up to be, and tried to remain the submissive woman that her vile ex-husband had forced her to be. She warred with her newborn urges and emotions, then often felt guilty after we mated. Because I always patiently explained and reassured her of my acceptance to her urges, eventually she gained the confidence and became empowered to take the lead in many of our couplings. There'd never be any complaints from me, when my beautiful wife got carried away.

Afterwards, as we lay in each other's arms, I touched on the topic of the evening. I asked if she was truly okay with, not only Bella's pregnancy, but now Leah and Rosalie's miracle pregnancies. She stiffened for a moment and I feared I had hurt her feelings. She remained quiet for several seconds before answering me.

"I'm not unhappy, I'm not. In fact, I am grateful they have been so blessed. Bella is young and still human, so her pregnancy would be understandable, despite how unprecedented. I also learned that Leah sadly feared, that as the only female of her species, she'd be unable to have children… so I am happy for her as well. And, no one knows more than I, how deeply Rosalie has suffered in this immortal life, because of the things impossible for us. What kind of person would I be, if I begrudged her the only happiness she's helplessly longed for?" She told me.

I knew she was being honest and I knew in my heart, that she was kind-hearted enough to not resent them their happiness. Yet, I felt she was holding back, so I prodded a bit more.

"Es, I am also extremely happy for the girls and I believe you are too. But, I worry if you will be okay watching them, day in and out, as their pregnancies progress… and eventually have their babies. I know you'd never begrudge them, just as I know you are not an envious woman. Still, I worry about your heartache, and if I'll always be wondering if you're truly okay." I told her honestly.

She looked me in the eyes and I noted her watery eyes before she blinked the venom tears away. She leaned forward to kiss me lightly, then smiled sadly.

"I had a baby once, my love, you know that. I carried him inside me, held him as he took his last breaths. You know it was him, that I planned to join when I leaped off that cliff. I will never forget him, as long as I live, in this world or the next. Still, I had to make my peace with that. That said, I will find the strength to love and spoil these children as I would my own. Carlisle, we will be their doting grandparents. Even if I already know what wonderful parents they have, we will make sure none of them will ever want for anything, ever… No matter what this long life throws at us. When the day arrives, that I meet my end, if the Gods permit, I will join my son wherever he may be, and I will do it all over again with him." She said and I was overwhelmed.

I was struck stupid, swallowing a lump in my throat, overwhelmed as I marveled at the this amazingly strong and brave woman. I kissed her passionately and felt her return my kiss just as feverishly. Still, I paused because I needed to clarify one thing, before continuing to where I knew this would lead.

"You are right, and I love you so much! Just, have no doubt that I will never leave you and if you were to go before me, I'd follow you at a moment's notice without hesitation. Maybe then, as you said, if the God's allow, we will spend that eternity with your son together." I told her sincerely.

She smiled widely and responded with a growl, "You'd better, Dr. Cullen. I'll hold you to that! And, if the unfortunate moment arrives, which takes you from my side on this earth, I'll meet you shortly after." Then, we lost ourselves in one another again.

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Edward POV

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As Bella and I lay naked in each other's arms, I realized she was not feeling the cold of my body against her. She quickly rationalized that her pregnancy was, essentially heating her enough for the both of us. It felt wonderful to lay this way with her, without having to worry about having to burrito wrap her, as she called it. The feel of her in my arms, is one of the things I know I will treasure forever.

Hearing her thoughts was an added perk as well - I thought to myself with a smile. I was treated to all the lovely plans she had for our kids when they finally arrived. I could also never put into words, just how amazing it felt to feel the babies moving within her. She mentioned feeling little flutters in the last day or so, but I could feel them now too, against my side while Bella cuddled against me. Every time one of them wiggled about, it would make us laugh and she'd giggle her apologies to them, for not having much room inside her for them.

Regardless of how I usually tried to block-out everyone's thoughts, especially during their private times, I could never block them all out entirely. During all the events and excitement of this afternoon, it became apparent that we'd all overlooked someone that we loved and cared deeply about. I felt stupid now, as I listened to Esme's confession to Carlisle, and I wondered if there was anything Bella, Rose or even Charlie could do for her, with their lineage. I would bring it up to them tomorrow, and I was sure that if there was a way, they'd find it.

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Tanya POV

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Last night had been an eye opener for me. For so many years, I longed for Edward but the more I saw him with Bella, I was witness to how deep their love was. It helped me come to terms with what I felt for so long. I was infatuated with him, wanting to achieve what I thought was impossible to get. I do truly care for him, and I know he cares for me to, but as family should… and that's exactly what I hoped to get across to Bella. She was part God apparently. So, she wasn't likely to ever truly need anything from me, but I'd like for her to know that she could count on me, if the need ever arose.

"It was Charlie that convinced me to come outside last night to see the wolves in person. And I've got to say, I'm glad I did. It seems I've wasted so much time resenting them because of Laurent. Seeing them and having gotten to know them, I know they were doing the right thing by protecting their loved ones. While I might have preferred Laurent to stay with me, I can't fault them for his actions." Irina's voice broke through my thoughts and I found myself nodding at her words.

"I for one, am glad we came. It does get, a bit lonely in Alaska, from time to time. We've always known the Cullens are great people and we're lucky to count them as family, but Bella and Leah are also great. I think it is beautiful to see them with their mates, so in love. It makes me wish my prince charming was on his way too, you know?" Kate chimed in.

"Hopefully, he'll be immune to your electric zaps, or it could make for a pretty charred prince." I giggled in response, causing them both to giggle.

I looked to the window in time to see the first sun rays breaking over the horizon, just as I heard footsteps coming down the stairs. It was Bella, I guessed by the sound, just as her scent reached me and confirmed it. I got up to meet her at the bottom step, hoping to have that chat and explain myself to her for a bit.

I noticed she was focusing on her steps, but looked up momentarily when she noticed me walking towards the stairs. The half a second of a distraction was enough to cause her to lose her balance. I noticed before she did, that her next step would be off. I looked on in horror, as realization dawned on her face, while she stared at me.

"Bella!" I called and I vamped up to catch her, before she could hurt herself.

However, just as I was about to reach her, her body seemed to float for a few seconds. It was long enough to allow for her to right herself, and stand securely on the step she had almost fallen from. She stared at me as wide-eyed as I looked at her.

"Bella, are you alright?" I asked majorly concerned and just a tad freaked out.

"Um… yeah I'm fine… I think I just…" She spoke but sounded shocked.

In an instant, Edward flew toward us at the center of the stairs, so I moved aside to allow him to get to her.

"What was that? In Tanya's mind… Bella, I think I just saw you… Float." He said but it sounded like a question.

"Yeah… umm… I think I might have, but I have no idea how." She was saying and giggling nervously.

"Do you think it could have been one of the babies?" He questioned her, but she was shaking her head.

"No, Edward. Not this time. I can't explain it, but it felt like I did it… somehow." She told him, then she turned her heard towards me.

"Thank you, Tanya, for getting to me so quickly. I've always been a klutz, and this belly doesn't help with coordination." She told me with a smile and a chuckle, causing me to laugh along, albeit slightly nervously.

With Edward holding her hand, Bella started going down the steps. I was about to follow when something caught my attention. There, in the very spot she'd been standing, were three almost translucent looking feathers, drifting slowly to the ground.

"Edward, Bella!" I called out to get their attention without taking my eyes off the feathers.

When I heard Bella's gasp, I knew they were seeing what I was. Just as the feathers landed on the ground, they quickly flashed gold and disappeared. I looked towards them to find that my sisters, along with Rosalie and Emmett, had joined us. By their shocked faces, it was obvious they'd all witnessed the same thing.

"Bella, what did Charlie say about legendary Swan Maidens? Didn't he say that, although he'd never seen one and he didn't know anyone that had, he still believed there was truth to that myth?" Irina asked and we all looked towards Bella.

"Um… vaguely. Truth be told guys, he said a lot and I can't remember everything. You guys are the ones with perfect memory." Bella said in defense, but looking spooked.

"Yes, Bella. That was what he said. I remember because in my early years, I'd also heard the myths and had been fascinated by the idea. I remember thinking that if Vampires were real, then Swan Maidens might be too." I told her with a smile, as I made my way towards her.

When I reached her side, she grasped my hand tightly and mouthed thank you to me, and I nodded. We were making progress and I was glad for it.

"Well, Merry Christmas Little Swan Goddess." Emmett said and pulled her into a hug, making us laugh. Once he released her, she hugged Rosalie as they giggled and rubbed each other's bellies.

The Pack was heading upstairs from the basement, and Bella rushed to Jared to tell him what happened, before they left for Christmas Morning festivities on the Reservation. Esme and Carlisle, Carmen and Eleazar, and Alice and Jasper, came downstairs and got caught up. Everyone was amazed but ultimately glad she hadn't been hurt, as was I.

Esme was about to make breakfast for Bella, telling her she shouldn't have to cook, but Carmen asked if she could prepare something from her human years. When Bella agreed, the three of them made their way to the kitchen happily. The rest of us headed out for a, much needed, Christmas Breakfast hunt, and it ended up being the most fun I'd had in years.