No End In Sight

by KS.reader

Bella is battling an illness she never even knew existed. She struggles daily with pain, school, bullies and much more. When a family move into Forks things start looking up. Will Edward and his family be what she needs?

25. Chapter 24: The Party

A/N: Hello!!! I'm so happy I've got this to you quicker then 3 weeks. It's been just over two, which is strange seeing as this is probably my longest chapter yet! I had so much fun writing this chapter. I really enjoyed it, and I hope you feel the same way when you read it.

I don't want this A/N to be super long, so I'm not going to say much else. But please read the note at the bottom of the chapter.

Disclaimer: I do not own Twilight. I only own this plot and any characters not affiliated with Stephenie Meyer's Twilight saga. Stephenie Meyer owns everything Twilight related! This disclaimer applies to the entire story.

Thank you for the reviews, and hello to new followers. Here it is... enjoy!!

- KS.reader

Chapter 24: The Party

"BELLA!!! You're here!! It's my birthday!! I am so excited! Are you? Tonight is going to be awesome!!"

"Woah! Alice... calm down. I'm not even out of the car yet." I say, laughter following my words.

I've arrived at the Cullens' house early. Tonight is Alice and Edward's birthday party. I haven't seen them all day; I had my home lessons, but didn't go to my Biology class at school. I wanted to have enough energy to at least stay a couple of hours. I know that sacrificing my class for a party isn't the most responsible thing to do, but in my defence, I did get Edward to send me notes from today's lesson.

Alice wanted me to get ready with her and Rosalie, and seeing as she can't come to mine, because she has to stay and make sure the house is set up the way she wants it (her words, not mine), we decided to meet here.

My dad has been a bit cautious of this plan. He's worried I'll wear myself out and not be able to stay as long as I am hoping. And he was concerned about me getting ready without my usual room and help; I compromised and asked Sue if she'd like to come with me to help get ready. It's not like I need a shower or anything, I did all that at home.

In the end, the whole family had been invited to arrive early. Seth and Leah are looking forward to the party, even though there won't be many people their age actually attending. However, Edward's cousin, Nessie will be there, so that will be one person close to Seth's age.

The younger ones are only staying for about an hour, maybe a little longer. Sue will be taking them back home after that, and Edward's uncle, aunt and cousins will be leaving around the same time. Sue has driven here in a separate car, so she can take them home when the time comes.

Over all, we have it all planned out. I'm just hoping I can stay long enough to actually experience a good portion of a party. I haven't been to one this big in a while, or ever!

Alice leans into the car to hug me. I guess she is too excited to wait for me to get out.

"I know, I know." She says, taking a deep, calming breath. "I know I need to calm down, but Bella! It's my birthday. I am soooo excited."

"I can tell." I giggle. "Happy birthday, Ali." I say. She squeals loudly, almost deafening me in the process.

She steps back to give my father room to lift me out of the car, calling out "Hi" to him at the same time.

"Oh, are you serious?" she mumbles angrily to herself. My dad stops just before he picks me up, and we both turn to her, wondering what the problem is. She is looking out towards the road used to enter the property. "What are you doing?! I said wrap the lights around the trees out here, not dangle them. That's meant to be on the other ones, out in the back!!" she exclaims, stalking off to shout at some poor, unsuspecting soul.

I can tell, just by the drive in here, that this party is going to be epic. I have a feeling that what I saw on St. Patrick's Day was just a teaser of what Alice is capable of. This is going to be bigger and better.

As we were on our way here, driving up the long road that leads to the house, we could see numerous people in and around the trees that border the road. I couldn't see what they were doing, but I can give a good guess now, thanks to Alice's recent reprimands.

Alice has told me a lot over the past few days about this party. She's had to hire a team of people to help, because there is so much to do. The party is going to be held outside in their back garden, for the most part. That was plan A, if the weather followed the forecast and was nice today, which it is. If plan A failed, she had a plan B: to have it set in the house instead. But I guess plan A is happening.

I know, from Alice talking about it, that the parties colour scheme is black and gold. She has assured me, and many others, that we will be amazed by what she has planned. I've thought for a while that she's been over exaggerating tonight's expectations a little, but after seeing a man hanging upside down from a branch on our way in, I'm starting to think that my assumption was wrong. The party is set to begin at 7:30pm. I thought that was pretty late, but according to Alice, this is necessary and I'll see why when the party begins.

The invites said to 'dress to impress', which I'm guessing is the dress code people were given. The guests can interpret that any way they want. I haven't really done so to be honest. I'm just in something casual, but I'm hoping to get away with it. I have the excuse of needing comfort. Hopefully that will placate Alice and she won't go all makeover mad on me. She seems in that mood today.

My dad chuckles and turns away from watching Alice go on her little rampage. It's funny seeing someone so small tell so many fully grown men what they are doing wrong. He goes to reach forward, preparing to lift me again, when we are stopped by Alice again. She runs over, the crunching of the gravel under her shoes giving her position away. I can't turn around to see her, but that sound is an obvious sign that it's her.

"I'm back!! Okay, so Bella, Rose is already up in my room. Charlie, can you take her up please? I'll show you the way." she demands, still breathing a little heavy from her almost heart attack at some lights being hung wrong.

"Sure." my dad answers. "Hang on a sec. Sue's calling me over. I'll be back in a minute, girls." he says distractedly, before walking away, towards Sue's car, which is behind us.

Alice moves closer to my side, and begins venting to me about the utter stupidity of some people. Honestly, I miss half of what she says. Her words are coming so fast, that my constantly fatigued brain can't register it all. I just sit and nod, trying to force the insistent smirk off of my face. Alice can be so comical when she's like this.

"Phew. I'm done. I needed that." she says breathlessly, before going back to being hyper, overly excited, always smiling Alice.

"Where's Edward?" I ask, looking towards the house. He's usually the first one to greet me when I arrive.

"He's out back, helping set up. I've told him to stay away until we are all ready." she says. I quickly turn to look at her, and see she has a smug look on her face.

"What? Why?" I ask, outraged. It's his birthday, and the only contact I've had with him all day is over the phone. I'd love to see him now. Stupid pixie! I love her really, and know she has good intentions, but sometimes I wish I had the power to tell her no. However, I'm positive nobody has that power.

"Because, he can't see you until you're ready. Just like I'm not seeing Jasper and Rose isn't seeing Emmett. It's necessary, trust me." she says. I sigh and go to protest, but she carries on speaking before I can make another sound.

"Do not argue with me on this, Bella. You've already gone all day without seeing him, what's the harm of two more hours?" she says, trying to help me see reason. I just sigh, knowing I'm not going to get out of this. Especially not today, when she's in such a headstrong state of mind.

I'm here two hours early. I know that seems like a lot, and it doesn't sound like such a good idea, seeing as I'm already going to struggle with how long I want to stay. But, as I said earlier, we have it all planned out. I'm going straight upstairs to Alice's room, where me, her, and Rosalie will get ready. I'm going first, then Sue can leave to help Esme in the kitchen, which she insists on doing, even though she's been told she doesn't have to. Then I'll stay with the girls until they are ready.

I'll interact with them for a while, but me and Alice decided I should try and have a little sleep for an hour before the party. When I wake, I will hopefully feel a little better for the party - though it's common knowledge, and something I know from experience, that sleep doesn't really help an M.E. sufferer. Sleep doesn't help us feel revitalised in any way. But I can always hope. It's best to try everything.

My dad comes back and finally lifts me from the car. With me in his arms, he follows Alice towards the house. The outside looks incredible. I can only imagine what the inside and back looks like. I can't wait to find out! I can see some people still messing around in the trees out along the front road and driveway. What they are doing is clearer now. They are wrapping warm white string lights around the trunk and branches of trees, leaving a few empty in between each one they do, so they are spaced out. The illuminated ones will line the road; helping the guests navigate the camouflaged trail, but also setting the atmosphere for the rest of the night. That will look awesome when people begin driving up the road.

The porch railing is wrapped in black and gold crêpe paper. Black, gold and white balloons are tied in groups of three, at spaced out intervals along the railings. As my dad carries me up the porch steps, I see a large table set to the right of the front door, on the porch. It's covered in a black table cloth, with a gold runner lying horizontal and vertical across the table, creating a cross. An empty clip board sits on the corner of the table, ready for something, but I don't know what.

Just as my dad reaches the door, Alice turns and stops us from coming through. I look to the table once more, trying to figure out why it's there. "What's the clipboard for?" I ask, tilting my chin up in its direction.

"Well, because I may not be here to welcome every person that comes in, I wanted someone to take note of everyone who enters. There's a guest list and I have someone who will tick off people's names. Anyone who isn't on the list, doesn't enter, unless either me or Edward says so." she answers.

She leans closer, and lowers her voice a bit. "We don't know if any of them will try to get in tonight, so we wanted to be extra cautious." she says. I know exactly who she's referring to when she says them. "It was Edward's idea, actually. It was one of the only things he put any input into for our party." she says with a frown.

"That boy sure does love you, Bells." my dad whispers to me quietly. I smile and blush, feeling more then lucky right now. "This chat is lovely and all, girls, but can we get a move on? I know I say you aren't heavy, Bells, but you aren't exactly light enough to hold for this long either." he says with a chuckle. I smile and blush some more.

"Oh! Of course. Sorry, Charlie. Okay, Bella, close your eyes." Alice says.

"Why?" I ask cautiously.

"I don't want you to see what it looks like so far. I made Rose do the same thing." she says. I huff, but do as I am told.

"I don't see why I have to do this. It's not my birthday party." I grumble quietly, low enough so the party planning pixie up ahead doesn't hear me. My dad, however, does hear me, and he chuckles at my words as he begins walking again.

As we make our way through the house, I can hear a lot of commotion going on around me. It sounds a bit hectic. The noise dissipates as we ascend the stairs. My dad shifts me a bit in his arms, jolting my bruised hip slightly. It's still not fully healed, though it has definitely improved. It's more tender then anything now. My face is completely healed and my knees are almost fine again too. If I didn't have this stupid cast, I'd look back to normal, with no visible signs of my fall.

"Okay, you can open your eyes again, Bella." I hear Alice say, just as my dad comes to a stop. I open them, adjusting my eyes to the lights. Alice opens her bedroom door that is in front of us and I am absolutely certain that my jaw hits the floor. Her room is extravagant and over the top, and just so... Alice! That's the best way to describe it. It presents her personality perfectly.

"Did she make you close your eyes, too?" Rose asks me from across the room. I nod in response, my mouth still hanging open. "I know right?" Rose says, also looking around a bit in wonder.

Alice directs my dad across the room, where he puts me down on her bed. I sink into the matress. Oh my... I think I'm in heaven. Her matress is so comfy, and it moulds around my figure as my weight presses into it. It's like sitting on a cloud. Alice has neatly arranged throw pillows on her bed, so I'll be comfy in sitting up for a while.

"I'll go and get your wheelchair, Bells." my dad says after fussing over my position, and making sure I'm comfy. He has removed my shoes for me, so they are not all over Alice's comforter. "Would you like me to send Sue up?" he asks Alice.

"Yes please, Charlie. Also, Nessie, my cousin is here already. She's in the games room, down in the basement. We have some games and stuff set out for her. If you'd like, Seth and Leah could go down there too. My Uncle Marcus can show you the way. I know he'll be checking in on them regularly." she says. My dad smiles at her - a grateful smile - and thanks her before leaving us alone.

As soon as the door closes behind him, I let out my squeal of appreciation. "Oh my God, Alice! Your room is incredible!" I exclaim, feeling a bit like her in this moment.

"Thank you. When we moved here, my parents gave me a budget to redecorate. Using that, and a few of my old bedroom pieces from back in Chicago, I created this. It is, by far, my favourite place in the whole world." she says happily.

Her room is large, much like every room in this house. It is every teenage girls dream. It's girly and cute, but also modern and sophisticated. The theme is dusky pink, grey, gold and white.

It's a well lit room, which is also a similar feature to the rest of the house; with a double balcony door and two large, floor to ceiling windows on the wall opposite the bedroom door. The window on the left side of the balcony doors is smaller in length then the one on the right of it. A majority of that wall is taken up by windows and the glass doors. The large windows are covered by curtains, which are the same material as the bedding. I'm assuming they are closed because Alice doesn't want us to see what is happening outside.

On the right side of the room is the accent wall. The wallpaper is a stunning, contemporary geometric design. The pattern is made up of abstract triangles, in tones of dusky pink, white and grey. It has a matte finish, with a metallic rose gold outlining the pattern. The other walls are a dusky pink; an identical shade to the one on the wallpaper.

Up against the accent wall, is the king size bed - where I am sat now. The headboard is tall and thick, made with a dark grey material. The bedding set is plain and dusky pink, with an assortment of throw pillows perfectly arranged on top: two large, dark grey and gold geometric patterned ones, with a white, gold and light grey one in the middle of them. Two smaller, pink fur pillows are in front of these. And finally a dark grey lumbar pillow, with the word "love" written in a pretty rose gold brush script, sits at the front.

Dangling from the ceiling, at both bottom corners of the bed, is a pair of sheer white material drapes. Twinkling fairy lights hang inside the material, shining through it beautifully. This little feature really makes the room seem magical, almost like a pixie lives here - like I said earlier, this room is very Alice.

The furniture in the room is mainly white. On either side of the bed is a white, two-drawer bedside table. On top of these, is a stylish round, gold and ivory table lamp.

To the right of the bed, in the corner of the room by the large window, is one of those egg chairs. I've never actually seen one in person. It's clear, completely see-through and dangles from the ceiling by a metal chain. It has two white leather cushions, and a square, grey and blush pink, floral patterned pillow. Oh, I so wish I could have a try at sitting in that chair. A dusky pink, round fur rug is underneath it.

To the left of the bed, on the wall adjacent to the bedroom door, is an impressive vanity unit. It's white, with a column of drawers on both sides, coming up from the floor and stopping at the tables height. Three drawers are set out horizontally, creating the tabletop part of the vanity. A large, light bulb framed mirror towers over the table. Tall, slim white shelving units stand at either side of the vanity table, and they are topped with different perfumes, makeup bags and picture frames. A round swivel chair is tucked underneath the vanity table. It's a tufted, white leather, body hugging seat. A pink cushion that has a gold geometric pattern - a lot like the one on the wallpaper, sits on top of the chair.

Against the same wall as the vanity, but on the other side of the bedroom door, is a tall chest of drawers. It matches the bedside tables; though this one is taller, with four drawers instead of two. A poster is on the wall above it. It's white, with the word "love" displayed in a large rose gold foil font.

In the far corner of the room, still adjacent to the bedroom door, is an L-shaped, white wooden desk. It has numerous shelves and cupboards for storage, that I'm sure Alice has thoroughly organised, down to the last item. The desk chair is the exact same as the one at the vanity table, except this one is pink leather, instead of white. The pillow on top of the chair is the same too, but this one is white with a gold geometric pattern, not pink.

A set of double doors is on the wall opposite the bed, which I'm pretty sure is the entrance to her overly large walk-in wardrobe. I don't think I'd even like to go in there. It's probably bigger than her bedroom. I wouldn't be surprised to be quite honest.

An exquisite, two seater sofa is lined against the smaller window. This is where Rose is currently sat. It's a tufted grey material, and it is gorgeous. Four pillows are set out on it: In the left corner is a gold sequined pillow, and a silver-grey, basic pillow with a large white letter "A" printed on the front. In the right corner of the sofa is a pinky, rose gold sequined pillow, and the same basic silver-grey one, but with a "C" printed on the front as opposed to an "A".

In front of the sofa is a glamorous glass and metal coffee table. The top is a glass hexagon, and the frame is cage-like; structured by a fusion of geometric shapes in gold metal. A tall floor lamp stands at each side of the sofa. They are gold stemmed, with a gold wire geometric diamond shade.

A crystal ball pendant lamp hangs from the ceiling in the center of the room. It's magnificent, and I can't wait to see what it looks like on. It reminds me of a disco ball, only less tacky and more elegant.

I continue to look around in wonder, struggling to decide what to focus on. It's all so eye-catching. All of the colours and shapes compliment each other so well. So much is going on at once, and it just reminds me of Alice in countless ways.

The door opens and we all turn to watch as Sue enters the room, pushing in my wheelchair and stopping it beside the door. After she stands up from putting the brake on, her eyes widen slightly at the sight of the interior. "Woah." she breathes as she walks further into the room, turning a full 360 as she observes all the details. "Do not let Leah see this room. I'll never hear the end of it." she says, causing us all to giggle.

"Alice, dear..." she coos, walking over to hug her, "happy birthday."

"Thank you, Sue." Alice replies with a smile.

"Okay..." Sue begins, taking a few steps back. "What's the plan, ladies?" she asks. We all turn to Alice, knowing she is in charge. Alice places her hands on her hips and let's her smile grow even wider, before she begins speaking.

"Here's the plan for the next hour and a half-ish. Bella will be going first. I have everything ready and prepared for you, Bella. And then me and Rose will get ready. I will be keeping a check on the progress outside from my balcony." she says. "I hope they can hear my shout from up here." she mumbles to herself, concerned. We all laugh at Alice.

"I'm sure they'll be able to hear you, Ali." Rose says through her giggles.

Sue makes her way over to me, handing me the bag she has been holding. It contains Edward and Alice's birthday presents from me. I put it down beside me after checking all the contents are inside.

When I look up, I see all three women stood around me, with determined sparks in their eyes. "Um..." I begin cautiously, "What's the plan for me then?" I ask. I honestly have no clue what Alice wants to do with me.

She smiles and holds up a finger, telling me to wait, before skipping over to the double doors on the opposite side of the room. She re-enters a few moments later, holding a large black box. Oh gosh. What have I gotten myself into?

She puts it down on the bed by my feet. Rosalie and Sue both sit on the edges of the bed, so they can listen comfortably to what Alice has to say. "In here," she starts, tapping the lid of the box with her freshly manicured nails, "is your outfit."

I furrow my brows and pull a face at her words. "What? No. Alice, I thought you were only going to be doing my face and hair." I say. I had assumed, and slightly hoped, that was all she wanted from me. I look down at the clothes I am wearing. "Can't I just stay in this?" I ask. Alice looks horrified, while Rose is trying to hold in a laugh and Sue is shaking her now lowered head.

"Wh-... You... NO!" Alice stutters before calling out the word sharply. I jump slightly because of the volume she uses. "Sorry." she says guiltily, and at a much quieter noise level. "No, Bella. You can't stay in that." she says, disgust in her voice as she points at me.

I don't understand what the problem is. I look down at my bright red, button up sleeveless blouse and usual black leggings.

"It's got no... sparkle!" she says as a way of explanation.

"Sparkle?" I repeat, my voice lacking much enthusiasm.

"Yes, sparkle, Bella! The dress code for everyone tonight is dress to impress, and I'm sorry if I'm being blunt, but that just isn't impressive."

My mouth hangs open for a moment, the words vacant from my mind. "But, I... This..." I can't finish my sentence. I'm seriously at a loss for words.

I turn to Sue, hoping to find an ally in her, but all she does is chuckle. "Sweetie, Alice is right." She says, a smirk pulling at her lips.

"You knew about this, didn't you?" I ask her, narrowing my eyes accusingly. Sue nods, the smirk growing into a broad grin. Damn! Three against one. I huff and turn back to Alice. "Ali, I'm not a sparkles kind of girl. I'd much rather stay in something comfy. Sparkly means sequins, and they itch." I say, my nose wrinkling just at the thought of my skin coming into contact with them.

"I have a feeling you'll change your mind once you see these." she says as she pulls the lid off of the box. Her eyes hold a knowing glint as she pulls something out of the box. I gasp, sucking in a large breath of air when I see the object in her hands.

She is holding a pair of Converse All Star high tops. But, these aren't just any pair of Converse. Oh no! These are... they are something else. They are a sparkly navy blue glitter, with navy satin laces. I think I'm in love!

I mindlessly reach out for them, which causes Alice to giggle happily. I take them eagerly (in my one good hand) holding them in a delicate grip, like they are a bubble that will pop if I touch them with any force. They are so beautiful.

"They're yours to keep." Alice says. My head snaps up to look at her.

"W-what?" I ask, utterly gobsmacked. I look down at the shoes, and then to Sue and Rose, before looking back at Alice. "No! No, no, no. I can't take these." I say quickly, holding them up towards Alice. She gently pushes them to my chest.

"They're yours. I saw them when I was shopping last weekend for the party, and I instantly knew they were made for you." she tells me. I smile, and tears spring to my eyes.

"Thank you." I say quietly. Why am I getting so emotional? I chuckle, to try and clear the sudden fog of emotion. "Aren't I meant to be giving you gifts today?" I joke. All three of them laugh.

I look back down at the shoes, before glancing at the box. Okay, I'll admit, now I am a little curious. That box is too big to only have a pair of shoes in it. "Is there anything else in there?" I ask, trying to keep the curiosity and hope from my voice and features.

Alice cocks an eyebrow while smiling like the Cheshire cat. "Yes, there is." she answers, slowly reaching in to pull out another item. Please be as cool as the shoes. Please be as cool as the shoes! I chant in my head.

Her face turns guilty as she pulls out a navy blue sequin tank top. It has a scoop neckline and thick straps. The front is embellished with navy sequins, and the back is plain. I'm apprehensive about all of them sequins, but I have to admit, I do like the top.

I must be smiling, because Alice's guilty expression changes for a beaming smile. "You like it?" she asks, beginning to bounce on the balls of her feet.

"Yeah." I say with a grin. She squeals happily, as she places the the top beside me.

"I hope you don't mind that your outfit is blue. I chose it because dark blue is Edward's favourite colour on you." she says casually.

"What? How do you know that?" I ask.

"He came and thanked me after your first date for helping you get ready. Said you looked stunning and he loved the colour of your dress." she says. I blush a deep red and lower my head, as Sue and Rosalie chime in.

"Aaaaaaw!"

"How sweet!"

"Okay, so you can keep the leggings on, 'cause I know how much you love wearing them." Alice says with a sigh and roll of her eyes. I thank her. "Would you like me and Rose to leave the room while you change, Bella?" Alice asks. I nod.

Alice directs Rose into the walk-in wardrobe, and tells her to have a browse. I think Alice is just happy to show off her clothing collection... as well as her shoe, purse and jewelry collections. I haven't seen any of what's in there personally, but I've sat through a thorough explanation of the contents.

Alice skips out of the double doors, closing them behind her, before walking out to the balcony to observe the work going on down below. As Sue gets up to help me, we hear Alice begin shouting out her orders, causing us both to giggle.

About five minutes later (which is quick for me to get changed, thanks to only having to switch my tops), Sue is helping me settle back into the cushions. I let out a sigh of relief that the hard part is over. She calls to the girls that we are done, who both rush into the room and come over to me. Alice looks at me expectantly.

"Thank you, Alice. I love it." I say, fingering the hem of the top. It's actually really comfy, and the sequins aren't itchy, yet. It's not a tight-fitting tank top, but it's not too loose either. It's a flattering shape, and I'm starting to think I should let Alice buy all of my clothes from now on. Actually, on second thought, maybe that's not a very good idea.

"Yay!" Alice cries happily, clapping her hands and jumping up and down. After she calms down a bit, she gets that determined look back in her eyes. "I think that we should wait to do your hair and makeup until after you've had your sleep." she says to me. I nod my approval; it makes sense.

"We have an hour and fifteen minutes left, so me and Rose will finish getting ready now, and you can fall asleep whenever you want. We'll wake you twenty minutes before the party starts so we can do your hair and make up." Alice says. We all agree.

Sue tells us that she'll leave us to carry on, but she'll come back up in an hour to check on us. She asks Alice if she can do anything to help downstairs. Alice tells her that Esme may need some help in the kitchen. We all thank Sue before she leaves.

The girls both begin with their tasks. Rosalie's makeup is already done, as is Alice's hair. I watch them for a few moments as they flit around the room, collecting things they need. Alice sets up her wireless speakers on one of the shelves beside the vanity. She connects her phone via Bluetooth, and begins playing some music at a rather quiet volume. I guess that's so I can peacefully fall asleep when I'm ready.

"So what are you two wearing?" I ask, watching them still as I lay further into the softness of the pillows. I yawn quietly, already feeling ready to try and sleep.

"You'll just have to wait and see, Bella." Rose says with a smirk. I huff, but give a small smile to show I'm not actually pissed off.

Soon I get bored of watching Rosalie brushing her hair and Alice stroking a makeup brush across her face. I reach into the bag that Sue gave me earlier, and pull out my phone. The notification light flashes, alerting me of a text message. I unlock my phone, smiling when I see Edward's name above the words 3 new messages. They were sent no more then fifteen minutes ago, all in quick succession.

This is torture, knowing you are here and not being able to see you :'( xxx

Tell my sister I'll be getting her back for this.

I love you xxx

I giggle quietly, trying to keep the attention of my friends away from me. With my good hand, I reply. This cast has been a nightmare. I definitely won't be rushing to break another bone anytime soon. I've gotten used to moving it a bit, but I'm still slightly scared to move it too much. Texting has been a challenge; I've had to learn how to do it with one hand. It's not an easy task.

I know :( I want to see you too. Will you hold off on the revenge if she makes me look beautiful? I love you, too xxx

I hit send and wait anxiously for a reply. My phone vibrates in my hand a few minutes later.

You always look beautiful!! I'd be willing to give it a miss if that's what you wish ;)

I can't stop the blush from creeping into my cheeks. He can be such a charmer. Before I can reply, another text message comes through.

Gotta go, my evil twin is eyeballing me from up there.

I quickly look around the room, and realise that Alice isn't in here. I look towards the balcony and see the doors open. She comes back in from the balcony, shaking her head.

"Bella, will you please stop distracting my brother. He's only got one more thing to do, and then he's free for the night." she tells me. I blush and look down.

"Why is he doing work if it's his birthday?" I ask her cautiously.

"Because he didn't help with any of the planning. And I needed as many people as possible to pull tonight off. Anyway, he offered." she says, sitting back down in the white leather seat in front of the vanity.

"Oh, okay." I mumble quietly.

I watch them for a while longer, but soon the fatigue begins pulling me under. I fall asleep, to the sound of Rosalie and Alice simultaneously humming along to 'Perfect' by Ed Sheeran.

{o0o}

"BELLA!!!"

"Alice! Not so loud. We've got to wake her up, not startle her to death."

"Sorry, sorry. But this is so exciting. People will be here soon. Oh my gosh! Tonight is going to be epic!"

"Alice, calm down. We've still got over twenty minutes to go."

"Pfft. That's nothing. It'll fly by and before you know it, we'll be dancing and singing and Oh! And eating cake. Oh, Rosalie, you should see the cakes I had made for tonight."

"Cakes? As in two?

"Yes, cakes, as in two. This is a joint party. There are two of us that need to blow out candles. I'm not going to share a cake with my brother, and have to blow out half as many candles, am I? No. There needs to be two so-"

"Okay, okay. I'm sorry I asked. Can we focus on waking Bella?"

"Oh yeah, sure. Sorry, I get a little excited. Don't know if you can tell."

"We can tell." I say in a sleep filled voice, finally intervening. Listening to these two just now is better then watching most TV shows. Once I got over the initial shock of Alice bellowing my name, and almost stopping my heart in the process, I was fighting a smile.

"You're awake!" Alice exclaims happily. And loudly. Seriously, does she have no sense of volume control?

I slowly open my eyes, letting them adjust to the bright lights of the room. I look up at the two figures stood at the bedside and for the second time tonight, my jaw practically hits the floor.

"Woah! You two look..." I try to search for a word, but nothing can sum up this.

"Impressive?" Alice asks hopefully, sticking to her dress code.

I nod my head vigorously. "Yes. Definitely impressive." I answer, smiling widely. "Both of you step back. Let me see all of it." I demand, motioning them back with my right hand. They both do as I say, twirling and posing like wannabe runway models. I giggle through my amazement.

Rosalie looks drop dead gorgeous in a smooth white chiffon silk romper. It has cropped bell sleeves and a scoop neckline. The top half hugs Rosalie's curves, lacing up the center of her chest from the waist. The bottom half is a flowing pair of attatched shorts, ruffled at the hem. When she turns, I see that the middle of her back is bare, and a zip is done up at the top of her back. She has put the romper with a pair of 4.5" strappy red suede barely-there heels, and a red jewel waterdrop necklace and earring set. Her eye makeup is a subtle red, whereas her lips are coated in a bright bold red lipstick. Her blonde hair falls in full curls over her shoulders, and down her back. She looks gorgeous.

But Alice... Alice just outshines everyone and everything. She is wearing a short, blush pink halter neck dress. The fitted bodice is embellished with rose gold sequins in an intricate pattern, and it is backless. The skirt part of the dress is an A-line shape, in chiffon. Her shoes are a stunning pair of glittery gold, T-strap 4" stilletos, adding to her small stature. And of course, in true Alice fashion, she is wearing something that will let everyone know it's her birthday: a black sash and a cute tiara that both say *'BIRTHDAY GIRL'*.

"Wow, girls! You look amazing!!" I say, grinning from ear to ear.

"Aaaw. Thanks, Bella. Now it's your turn!" Alice exclaims excitedly.

"Yay." I cheer sarcastically, lazily pumping my fist in fake joy.

"Oh, come on. At least pretend you're having fun." Alice says, pushing out her bottom lip and turning on the puppy eyes.

"Fine." I answer reluctantly. "What are you going to do to me?" I ask them both.

"Don't worry, we have it all planned. We need to hurry, 'cause we are running out of time." Rosalie says.

"Yes, we are!" Alice cries loudly. "I'll go and get S-"

Before she can finish that sentence, the lady who was almost named enters the room. Sue praises my friends for their gorgeous appearances, before preparing to help me get into position. She wheels my wheelchair over to the bedside from the door. She turns to help me, but stops in her tracks suddenly.

"Hmmm... this bed is a lot bigger then your one at home." she assesses quietly.

"Do you need some help?" Rose asks. Alice has wandered off, to check outside from her balcony, again.

"Yes please. I'm going to swivel her round, so she's facing me, and I just need you to support her back, okay?" Sue instructs. Rose nods before walking round to my right side, and sitting on the edge of the bed, facing me. "Are you ready?" Sue asks. I nod.

She pushes one hand under my back, while gripping onto my good hand with the other. Using her hold on my hand to pull, and her support behind my back to push, she helps me into a sitting position. I tense and shake slightly, feeling the weakness of my core muscles and their inability to hold me up properly. Rose reaches out, hovering her hands near me, just in case.

Still keeping a hand on my back, Sue scoops the other under my legs, and then rotates me so I'm facing her, inadvertently losing her hold on my back. Luckily, Rosalie is quick and I feel her hands press into my back a moment later. Sue stops for a second, making sure I'm okay, before moving the wheelchair closer to me.

Now comes the tricky part: getting from the bed to the chair without being lifted completely off of the floor. I can do it, with a lot of help. But I don't do it very often. Usually my dad just transfers me from seat to seat, by lifting my whole body weight.

Sue grabs my hand in a tight hold, and braces her free hand on my shoulder. "Ready, Rosalie? I need you to give a little push on the count of three. Understand?" Sue says.

"One... Two... Three!" she counts, and on three, I feel myself being pushed and pulled up onto my feet. I wobble unsteadily once I'm stood. Sue is holding most of my weight, and I am hunched slightly at the waist. I wince when my knees and hip clicks, and I try to keep my whimpering to a minimum as I shuffle to sit in my wheelchair. As Sue lowers me down into the chair, I can feel the pull of all the muscles in my legs; like they are all taut, and will snap at any moment.

They both give me a minute to take some deep breaths. My hands are shaking a bit after the physical exertion. Once I am calm, I smile at them both to let them know I'm okay. Sue wheels me over to the vanity, where Alice (who has just returned to the room) moves the seat out of the way.

Alice remains standing by the vanity, her expression pensive as she looks through a wooden jewelry box. She huffs and snaps the lid shut angrily.

"What's wrong, Ali?" I ask her, placing my right hand on her hands, which are balled up into fists on top of the vanity.

"I don't have any earrings that will go with what I am wearing. With everything I've been planning, it completely slipped my mind. I can't wear anything too long or big, because it's a halter neck. That just wouldn't work." She sighs, flopping down into the vanity chair behind her.

Sue bends down to whisper in my ear, "Your gift for Alice will go really nicely with her outfit."

I catch her eyes in the mirror as she stands back up. She winks at me, before saying a goodbye to the others, and leaving to help with any last minute tasks.

"Hey, Rosalie? Can you pass me my bag from the bed, please?" I ask.

"Sure." she answers as she fetches it for me. I fish Alice's present out of the bag, before placing it down on the floor beside me.

"Alice?" I call her name. She slowly raises her head, her lips in a pout. "This is for you." I say, handing her the gift. She takes it slowly, turning it over and over, and gently shaking it by her ear to see if she can hear anything.

"What is it?" she asks, a small smile appearing on her face.

"Open it and find out, silly." I reply.

"Now? But there's a table for gifts..." she informs me.

"You need to open mine now. It may help with your problem." I tell her. She pauses for a split second, contemplating my answer. She seems to be a but clueless for a moment, before her eyes light up and she begins tearing away the paper.

She reveals a small yellow box, which she hurries to open. Her gasp makes me feel anxious; is it a good or bad gasp? I was in two minds whether to get Alice anything fashion related. After all, she is the queen of fashion - in my eyes anyway. I don't know if she'd appreciate anyone buying her something to wear.

After being frozen for an extended pause, she suddenly squeals, putting the box on the vanity top to bend down and hug me. She's still squealing as she does so, meaning she is partially deafening me - or it feels that way. When she pulls back, I rub at my ear, hoping the ringing will stop. I'm not mad though. She's too happy with her present from me to be mad at her.

She takes the earrings out of the box as quick as she can, and carefully puts them in. She stands behind me to look in the mirror. Her gasp is a good one, I'm sure of it now. "Oh, these are perfect. Thank you, Bella!" she says, leaning down to wrap her arms around my shoulders and neck again. I pat her forearm in response.

She stands to admire them in the mirror again. I have to admit, they are really beautiful. I'm not one to toot my own horn, but I did buy something perfect for Alice... with Sue's help. The earrings are rose gold and peach, oval drop studs. They are dainty and hang a bit past her earlobe.

Once she's had enough of a look, Alice is ready to get down to business. "Right." she begins, placing her hands on my shoulders. "Time to make you look stunning." she says. She pulls me away from the table, and brings the chair towards the front of me, so she can sit and do my make up. Rosalie comes up behind me, and begins brushing my hair.

Twenty minutes later, they are done with me. Alice has been smiling nonstop for the last couple of minutes, because we can hear the music pumping downstairs. The party is just beginning. The noise level downstairs has been rising slowly for the last five minutes.

I can finally turn to the mirror once Alice gives me permission. Rosalie turns me and now it is my go to gasp. They have both done an excellent job. As always, when it comes to Alice doing my makeup, I don't look ill - or as ill as usual. My cheeks are tinted with a light blush. My eyes have a subtle dark blue glittery shadow on them, and my eye lashes are coated with a dark blue, almost black, mascara. My lips are a painted a little darker then their natural shade, with a glossy finish. Rosalie has styled my hair with loose curls, and has left it down, to fall around me. I feel beautiful.

Trying not to get teary eyed, and ruin their hard work, I thank them both over and over. They hush me after the fifth or so 'thank you'.

"The final touch..." Alice says, revealing my sapphire stud earrings (the ones I wore on my first date with Edward). "I asked Sue to bring them with her." she tells me. I smile, thanking her silently. After she puts them in my ears for me, seeing as I can't do so with only one hand, I look in the mirror again. I still have my necklace from Edward on. Thankfully she hasn't told me to take it off.

They both put one of the dazzling new shoes on either foot for me. Alice is just finishing up lacing my left one, when there's a knock at the door. Her and Rosalie both walk over, opening it. I can't see who it is.

"Are you girls ready yet?" Edward asks. My heart flutters when I hear his voice. I move myself forward so I can see him. Edward, Jasper and Emmett are all stood at the door. Edward smiles when he sees me, and I smile back. He looks amazing, as always. He's wearing a pair of dark-rinse denim jeans, and a navy blue, button up shirt.

I have to fight a giggle when I notice Jasper and Emmett's expressions. They are standing either side of Edward, mouths gaping as they stare at the girls. Alice giggles, stepping around Edward to link her arm through Jasper's. "Shall we?" she asks, a beaming smile on her face. He's speechless as he leads her away. Rosalie grabs Emmett's hand, and turns to wink at me before walking off, with him trailing behind.

Edward enters the room, closing Alice's door behind him. He walks over to me, leaning down to gently kiss my lips. "Hi." he says with a grin.

"Hi." I answer, stretching up to kiss him again. When I pull back, I smile. Finally, I can see him and speak to him in person. "Happy Birthday." I say.

He chuckles. "Thanks. You look gorgeous!"

I blush. "Thank you. I hear this is your favourite colour on me." I tease, causing him to blush.

"Why does she have such a big mouth?" he mumbles to himself, but I still hear it and giggle quietly.

"So... how is everything out there?" I ask, nodding towards the balcony doors. "Is it as extravagant as Alice has promised?"

"Oh yeah." he answers, nodding. "It is definitely what she been promising. It took some hard work, but it has paid off. It looks incredible!" he tells me.

"Did you mind doing all that work on your birthday?" I ask.

"No. I had to help somehow. And besides, even if I'd said no, Alice would have made me help eventually. I wouldn't have gotten away with doing nothing. I'm sure you've witnessed firsthand, the birthday crazed pixie that is my sister." he says, laughing.

"I have. Sash, tiara and all." I answer, laughing too.

"She tried to get me to wear them as well."

I stop laughing and stare at him with a straight face. "Seriously?" I ask, dumbfounded.

"Yep." he answers. "I refused, though. She even had a crown saying 'BIRTHDAY BOY' for me to wear." he says, disgust in his voice.

I burst out laughing again. I try to ask if he's serious, but I'm laughing too hard to say anything intelligible.

"It's not funny!" he exclaims, trying not to laugh with me. "I'm being serious. She had a crown with jewels and a glittery sash already bought for me." I wave my hand for him to stop, once my laughing becomes too much for me.

I take a moment to calm down, and my breathing is heavy after. "Woah." I sigh, wiping a tear of laughter from my eye.

"Anyway, are you ready to go?" Edward asks. I nod, and he begins wheeling me in the opposite direction of the bedroom door, towards the balcony.

"What are you doing?" I ask.

"I'm taking you down this way. Alice has some stairs that will lead straight down to the backyard. The front entrance is a little manic right now with everyone arriving, I thought this way would be better for you." he tells me. I nod my agreement.

"Oh wait!" I shout suddenly, just as Edward is opening the doors. He turns to me, his face alarmed and his eyes frantically searching my face for a problem. "Can you get me the bag from on the floor, by the table?" I ask, pointing my thumb over my shoulder, behind me. He sighs in relief, rolling his eyes at me before going to get the bag.

He puts it in my lap and I reach in, pulling out his birthday present. I hand it to him with a timid smile. He takes it eagerly, tearing off the wrapping paper. He drops the paper and holds the present in his hand, just looking at it.

I'm so nervous, wondering if he'll like it or want it. He's so good at knowing what to get me, and he's given me so much already. I'm desperate for him to like it, but I'm also feeling very anxious. As his silent appraisal continues, I can almost hear my heart as it beats erratically in my chest.

I begin rambling, unable to sit in the silence any longer. "It's not much. I-I just remembered you saying the other day that you needed a new one, and I thought it was a good idea. I don't know if you like other people buying you these, because it's a personal thing you do... you know, composing your music. I should've gotten you something else-"

Edward cuts of my babbling, swooping down to kiss me. "It's great. Thanks, love." he says, standing up after another quick peck on my cheek. He runs his hand over the leather cover of his new composition notebook. I smile, relieved he likes it. He tells me he'll be back soon, before leaving the room. He comes back a minute later, empty handed. He must've put the notebook in his room.

He comes back over to me, turning off Alice's bedroom light on the way. He wheels me out onto the balcony, locking the door behind us. The balcony platform attatched to Alice's room isn't as big as I expected. It's a small square, only extending out from either side of the double doors, with a set of stairs leading down to the garden on the right side.

Edward stops, allowing me to absorb the sight before me. There are lights everywhere. I see why Alice wanted the party to begin at 7:30PM; this wouldn't have looked so effective in the daylight.

The last time I saw this garden was for the bbq we had here. It is huge, which is a given, based on the size of the house. Directly outside the back doors of the house, is a large, elevated patio that stretches along the length of the house. It extends out to about the same point that Alice's balcony reaches.

A wide staircase leads down to the main part of the garden. It's a large, open area. A majority of it is made up of grass. A stepping stone path trails down to the bottom corner, along the right side, where another raised area is. Here, four wide steps lead up to an above pool deck, all made of wood. Up there is a deep round swimming pool, which has a white railing - the same height as the wooden railing around the deck. Chairs sit on the decking area, around the pool. On the left side of the garden, is an impressive climbing frame. Seth and Leah had a lot of fun on that when we came for the bbq in the spring.

The backyard is bordered with trees, making it seem secluded and private. It's a fact that the whole property is already private, due to the lack of nearby neighbours, but the outlining of trees makes it feel that way too.

However, just like the living room was on St. Patrick's Day, the garden has been transformed. And I was correct in assuming tonight's transformation is far greater then the one back then. It doesn't even look like the same garden.

The first thing I see is the beautiful, but simple, string lights that are wrapped around the railing of Alice's balcony. From up here, I can see a majority of the decorations down below. Identical string lights are coiled around the railings of the raised pool deck at the bottom of the garden.

On the right side of the garden, a wooden gazebo has been erected, with a string light canopy. It's a rectangle shape and very long, stretching across a good portion of the stone path. It's also tall, towering over Edward's height. Kerosene lamps hang along the rim of the gazebo. Set up under it, is a dessert table. The table is dressed in a black cloth, with a gold runner - much like the one on the table at the front of the house. A gold backdrop stands behind the table. There are black drapes hung across the top of it, and down the sides, tied back. A large, black biton banner, with 'HAPPY BIRTHDAY' in gold lettering, loosely hangs along the backdrop. From up here, I can't see much else of the table, like what deserts are on it, but I can determine that there is a lot of food on there.

In the center of the garden, a massive square, black and white checkered dance floor has been constructed. Surrounding the dance floor, round tables with gold table cloths, and black chairs are set up. In the middle of each table, there is a small black vase with white roses inside. Tea light candles in gold holders are scattered all across the tables.

At the bottom of the garden is a DJ table. It's up on a platform. A black backdrop stands behind it, curtained with warm white LED net lights. Two gold balloons (the numbers '1' and '7') float in the center of the backdrop, with a balloon columns (made up of black, gold and white balloons) on either side.

Festoon lights are strung in the air, above the dance floor, tables and DJ area. They are held up by tall wooden poles, anchored in flower buckets filled with garden gravel. And guess what? The buckets are wrapped in lights, too.

The trees surrounding the garden are draped in lights. That must be what Alice was talking about when I first arrived. Some branches have kerosene lanterns hanging from them.

I'm speechless. Completely and utterly speechless. I don't know what I expected, but this definitely wasn't it. It's so much more. Alice has out done herself.

"I know right?" Edward says from beside me. To be honest, I'd forgotten he was even here. I was so mesmerised by the view, that his presence had slipped my mind. I look up at him from my chair. He's stood beside me, watching me, with his hands in his pockets.

"This is... this is just amazing! I don't even know what to say." I answer. He nods, like he knows what I mean. "You've all done a fantastic job."

"It wasn't us. I can't take credit. This is all Alice. We were only instructed on what to do." he says. I look around again, making sure I have taken in all that I can. From up on the balcony, I can't see everything. I think I'm ready to see the rest. But...

"Where is everyone?" I ask Edward. The garden is peculiarly empty. The DJ is at the table, playing some music that I've never heard before. People in waistcoats, holding trays, are stood around the gazebo. And my dad is stood, speaking to one of the men in waistcoats. But no one else.

Edward sighs, so I look up at him again. "Alice wants to do a big reveal." he says, shaking his head.

"Huh?"

"Yeah. She's got the inside decorated too. It's not as bright as it is out here, but it still looks good. She's waiting for a good amount of people to arrive before opening the curtains and back doors." he replies, rolling his eyes.

"Wow! That's..."

"Over the top." he finishes my sentence for me, before sighing. "That's my sister: over the top, and crazy."

"You love her really." I tease, poking his side.

"I do. Though sometimes I wonder if I'm crazy for that." he chuckles. "C'mon let's take you down before the patio is swarmed with everyone." he says. He calls me dad's name, who looks up at us and smiles. As Edward gently lifts me from my chair, my dad comes over to the stairs. As we reach the bottom, my dad quickly runs up, to close up my wheelchair and bring it down.

He opens it back up again as quick as he can, so Edward isn't left holding me for too long. My dad steps back so Edward can sit me down, facing the dance floor and tables.

"You look lovely, Bells." my dad says.

"Thanks, Dad." I reply, lowering my head to hide my blush.

"This is pretty great, don't you think?" he asks.

I nod. "Yes it is. I've... I've never seen anything like this." I answer, looking around again. Then I notice more that I couldn't see from up there. I knew it. "Oh!"

"Would you like to see the rest?" Edward asks, chuckling. He's used to this. He's used to the big parties and complete transformations of his home. I nod eagerly. I think he's going to wheel me forward, towards the new area I've just discovered, but he doesn't. Instead, he turns me round, so I'm facing the back doors.

That's when I see the woman stood in the corner of the patio. How did I not notice her? Or more importantly, how did I not notice that? She is stood a few meters in front of a large, sparkly gold sequin backdrop drape. A camera tripod stands in front of her.

A large black table is stood against the back wall, a bit away from her on the right. A sign hangs on the wall above the table, with the words "take a prop, strike a pose." written in gold. Edward wheels me forward so I can see what's on the table. A variety of props are layed out for the guests to choose from: funny glasses, hats, fake moustaches and beards, tiaras and crowns. Alice really has thought of everything.

"You have got to be kidding me!" Edward huffs, walking round me to pick up the largest crown from the table. He turns it round so I can see it, and I burst out laughing. In his hand is the crown he told me about, the one that Alice tried to make him wear. "I swear, she can't take 'no' as an answer." he says. I continue laughing.

"Becky, when did my sister put this on here?" he asks the photographer.

"She came out here after you went inside, once she was ready, and put it with the rest of them." she answers, looking a bit confused. "Why? Do you want a picture with it on?" she asks him, clicking a button on the laptop that is set up on the small table to her left.

"No thank you. We're o-"

"Let's do it." I cut in, moving myself forward. Edward looks at me for a second, his face pleading, but soon sighs and moves of the way so I can pass him. I pick up a tiara and funky pair of gold rimmed star shaped glasses, before moving to the gold backdrop. Edward helps me face the camera, and then reluctantly puts the crown on.

"I also have this for you, Edward." Becky speaks up, revealing a sash with a smirk on her face.

"Oh my God." he groans quietly, stepping forward to take the sash with a sarcastic smile. He puts it on, facing me with his arms out beside him as if to say 'What do you think?'. I giggle, clapping my right hand against my thigh - which is my new way of clapping since getting the cast on.

We pose for a few photos, pulling funny face. I can't do much more then that, but Edward stands in a couple and then crouches beside me for the rest.

We are both laughing as we move away from the photo booth, having just looked at the outcome on the laptop and thanking Becky. Edward lifts me as my dad puts my wheelchair at the bottom of the patio stairs, ready for Edward to sit me back down.

Next, Edward pushes me to the gazebo. My mouth drops open again, once I see it all up close. Suddenly I am very hungry. I had a small bowl of pasta before we came here, because Alice told me that there wouldn't be any proper food available, only desserts. I'm glad I didn't eat much.

We reach the gazebo just as the staff begin to uncover the food. The table is covered in dishes of treats. You can't see much of the table to be truthful. In the center of the table, on pedestals, are the two cakes. Yes, Alice wasn't joking earlier. She really did have two cakes made. They are both four tier cakes.

"That ones mine." Edward says, pointing to the square one. It's black, though that's probably dark chocolate frosting, with a white dot motif decoration. A glitter gold cake topper, that says 'Happy 17th Edward', sticks out of the top.

"And that's Alice's." he continues, pointing to the other one next to it. This one is round. It's surface is black, just like Edward's. At the front of each tier, there is a cluster of frosted gold flowers, and a frosted gold band lines the crease of each tier. It is finished with a decoration of gold dots, and has a matching cake topper to Edward's that says 'Happy 17th Alice'.

They are both magnificent cakes. I hope everyone turns up, otherwise the Cullens will be left with a lot of cake and food afterwards. Though I'm sure Emmett wouldn't complain about that.

At either end of the long table, there is a chocolate fountain. One is milk chocolate and the other is white chocolate. Surrounding the fountains are tubes of wooden skewers and bowls of dippers: fresh fruit, marshmallows, small pretzels, sugar wafers, cookie dough bites, profiteroles and mini donuts.

On top of the rest of table is gold trays and dishes full of a variety of sweets and treats. Different shaped cookies decorated in gold, black and white icing. Chocolate covered strawberries, dipped in gold and black sprinkles. There are trays of oreos, icing glazed donuts, macaroons, biscuits and cupcakes - all matching the black, gold theme with their decorations.

Several Frere Roche trees, as well as profiterole trees stand at the back of the table. Small, square popcorn tubs, filled to the brim and organised in rows by flavour. Scattered and fitted into the remaining areas of the table, are round transparent jars with victorian style lids. They are in a variety of sizes, and filled with a diverse selection of candies and chocolates.

A small table to the right of the desserts table has gold paper plates, black napkins, plastic utensils, and some black and gold poka dot treat boxes on top.

"Do you want anything while we're here?" Edward asks, already walking over to get a plate. I stretch out and grab his hand, just before he goes out of my reach.

"No. I don't want to ruin the way it looks before everyone else sees it."

"Good point." he says, coming back to the handlebars of my chair. He turns me around and pushes me away from the food - sigh. We pass all of the tables, chairs and dance floor. Edward makes sure to keep me as far from the enormous speakers by the DJ table as he can, so the music doesn't trigger my noise sensitivity.

We are finally going over to the area I noticed when I was at the bottom of the balcony stairs. It's a seating area, on the far left side of the garden, where the climbing frame was. It's set up a bit away from the tables. There are five, large sofa chairs spaced out in a semi circle, all facing the rest of the party. They are round and black, with white and gold cushions. They are big enough for two, and they look really comfy. Only one has a matching ottoman in front of it; the one in the center. Small wooden tables sit in between each of the sofas. They have an assortment of candles and white roses ontop.

"This area was made with you in thought." Edward says as he stops us in the center of the seating area.

"Really?" I ask, bewildered.

"Yeah. Alice said she wanted somewhere you could sit and enjoy yourself. Somewhere that wasn't too close to the music, but also where you could mingle." he says, quoting Alice. I feel so loved today, and it's not even my birthday. Edward and Alice have thought of my needs every step of the way, and it wasn't something I was expecting.

Edward lifts me out of my wheelchair, and carries me over to the middle chair. After placing me down and lifting my legs onto the ottoman, he asks if I'm comfy. I answer; I am, very. I don't know what it is about the Cullens, but they have a way of finding and buying comfy furniture. Much like Alice's matress, the chair feels like sitting on a cloud. I sink into the cushions as Edward let's go.

Under the watchful eye of my father over by the gazebo, Edward carefully sits down next to me. He lounges back, tentatively placing one foot on the ottoman next to mine, and reaching for my hand.

Just as we are both settled, the back doors open and the amazement of the guests can be heard over the music. People begin flooding into the garden, with expressions ranging from shocked, to slightly intimidated. It is a lot to take in at once.

{o0o}

Edward stayed with me until I wasn't alone. Once Rosalie, Emmett and Jasper came over, Edward went to say hello to everyone. Apparently Alice had told him he had to - host duties and all that.

"So, Little Swan," Emmett begins, a full plate of food on his knee. He didn't waste anytime in tucking into the desserts. He sits down on the edge of my seat, he's too big to sit back. He'd probably squish the side of me. "How'd you like my hardwork?" he asks, gesturing around the garden.

"Your hardwork?" I repeat, arching an eyebrow.

"Yeah, well I helped. Someone had to do all the heavy lifting." he says, flexing his muscles under his fitted shirt.

"Emmett, stop talking shit. After helping with the tables and gazebo, you spent the rest of the time watching over the food being set up." Jasper scoffs.

"Ah! You said 'after helping with', so you admit I did help." Emmett replies, smiling, pleased with himself.

"Yeah, but you're making out like you did most of the work."

"I did my fair share." Emmett says stubbornly.

"Whatever, dude." Jasper replies, chuckling.

A woman in a waistcoat walks past us, offering everyone sat around a drink from her tray. All my friends jump up for one.

"Bella, do you want one?" Rosalie asks, though she's already holding two before I answer.

"What is it?" I ask cautiously. They are champagne flutes. I've never had alcohol, and I don't know how my tablets would react to it. Actually, I don't know how I'd react to it.

"The drinks aren't alcoholic if that's what you're worried about. My parents didn't want to promote underage drinking, even though this is a party." Emmett says, sitting back down in his original seat beside Rose. "It's non-alcoholic champagne. Kind of like sparkling grape juice. I think there are a few trays of mocktails going around too." he says, looking around.

"Mocktails?" I ask, feeling clueless. He nods.

"Yeah, you know, like a fake cocktail. Alcohol free and all that."

"Oh. Okay then. Thanks." I answer, taking the glass from her. I notice a blackberry floating in the golden liquid. Alice kept the theme for everything, even the drinks. I take a sip and hum my appreciation. It's really good.

As the other three talk around me, I relax and watch the party. People are up dancing to the song She Loves Control by Camila Cabello. It's a song played on the radio a lot at the moment. Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves.

"Emmett?" I ask. He looks at me, giving me his attention while I speak. "Are the parties for your family always like this?"

"Like what?"

"This... big and over the top. I mean, this is something I'd expect for a special birthday, like an eighteenth, not a seventeenth." I answer.

"Yeah, it's pretty much like this every year. Ever since Alice got into party planning. It was when she and Edward were turning ten. She thought that because they were going to be in double digits, it needed to be celebrated with a big party and all our family and friends. She made a PowerPoint on her little pink laptop explaining all that she wanted, and then she presented it to our parents. They toned it down a bit - she did want horses and a petting zoo involved - and she got to help mom plan most of it. Ever since then, every year she's helped, until eventually she just took over."

He chuckles at parts during his story, and I smile when I see the love he has for his younger sister. He carries on. "I wish you guys had seen my eighteenth. Wow, it was something else. It was just before we moved here, so we all managed to convince Ali to make it a leaving party as well, instead of having a separate party for that. It was fancy dress - 'cause you know how much I love costumes." he says, making me think back to his leprechaun costume on St. Patrick's Day. I giggle at the image in my head.

Speak of the devil... Alice comes skipping up to us. How is she doing that in them heels? She drops herself down onto Jasper's lap and kisses him passionately. I turn away after a few seconds with no sign of them stopping. I almost choke on my drink when I see Emmett and Rosalie's disgusted faces at the sight of their younger siblings kissing.

I see Edward walking towards us out the corner of my eye. He looks relieved to be finally coming back over, and doesn't waste any time in sitting down next to me. He gently throws his left arm over the back of the cushions, placing his foot beside mine on the ottoman, just like he did earlier. He leans his head back onto the cushion behind him, and turns his head so his left cheek is resting against it and he's facing me.

"You okay?" he asks.

"Yeah, I'm good." I reply. He smiles, leaning forward to kiss my lips once. I'm glad he doesn't try and do an Alice and Jasper. Not in public, no thank you!

"Aaaw. You two are super cute!" Alice says, finally breaking away from Jasper's lips long enough to notice those around her. I dip my chin to my chest, trying to hide my blush with my hair as it falls in a curtain around my face. I can feel Edward chuckling, his body shaking beside me. He pulls my hair away from my cheek, tucking it behind my ear. I just want to pull it back down again when I hear Alice comment on his action.

"Ooh! I love this song. C'mon Jazz, let's go dance." Alice says, already on her feet and pulling Jasper away, before he can put his drink down.

"Wow. She seriously didn't miss a single detail, did she?" Rosalie asks, commenting on the song that has gotten Alice so excited. I don't know what it is at first, but as soon as the chorus kicks in, I know exactly what song it is, and exactly why Rosalie said that.

'Cause if you're not really here

Then the stars don't even matter

Now I'm filled to the top with fear

That it's all just a bunch of matter

'Cause if you're not really here

I don't want to be either

I wanna be next to you

Black and gold, black and gold, black and gold

Black Gold by Sam Sparro is playing. Most of the guests are on the dance floor or around it, jumping and jiving to the music. Rosalie takes Emmett's drink from his hand and puts it down on the table, before taking him to the dance floor.

I think me and Edward are two of the few still sat down. That makes me feel a bit guilty. "You can go dance if you want to. You don't have to stay here." I say quietly, placing my hand on the one of his that's not thrown behind me. He interlocks our fingers, letting our hands sit on his leg.

"Are you kidding? No. I'm fine where I am, here, with you." he says, squeezing my fingers with his.

"I know. I'm just saying, don't feel like you have to stay here. It's your party. You should be up and having some fun." I say, not wanting to meet his eyes. I keep my gaze locked on our joined hands.

"Bella..." he says quietly, earnestly. I finally meet his eyes after an unbearable moment of silence. He continues once I am looking at him. "I am having fun. I don't need to be up and dancing to have a good time. Just being with you does that for me. You won't be able to stay for the whole party, and it's my birthday, so I want to spend all the time with you while I can. I would've asked to come back to yours with you for the remainder of the party when you leave, but that would be rude to our guests and Alice has put a lot of work into tonight." he says.

I smile, trying to keep the tears at bay. My heart flutters at his words, missing a beat or two. "Thank you." I whisper, leaning in to press my lips to his. We both pull away from our lingering kiss, and then I rest my head on his shoulder, happily watching the dancing and singing crowd in front of us.

{o0o}

I can't believe it's already been an hour. My time here is going so quick. I don't want to leave this party, but I know that I'll need to, probably within the next hour. Sue has just come over to tell me that she's going to get Leah and Seth to come say goodbye before leaving.

"Edward, we're leaving now. We've got to get Nessie into bed." Edward's aunt, Chelsea, says as she walks over to us. He stands from his place beside me to hug her.

"Thanks for coming, Auntie Chels."

"No problem. It was my pleasure. I'd never miss a party planned by Alice." she says as she pulls away.

"They sure are unmissable." Edward replies, chuckling.

"Happy birthday, Edward." she says, and then she turns to me. "Goodbye, Bella. I'm sorry I didn't get to spend some more time with you this time. I'm sure I'll be seeing you again." she says, looking between me and Edward with a slight smirk. I blush, and avoid both of their eyes.

"Bye." I call timidly as she walks away. Edward turns to sit back down again, but is almost knocked down by Nessie. She comes barrelling into his legs at full speed. He does well to stay on his feet.

"Edward!" she screeches, her small hands gripping onto his jeans as she hugs his legs.

"Who's there? Hello? I can't see anybody." Edward says, turning on the spot while looking around.

Nessie giggles, calling out to him. "Edward! Here! I'm down here!!" she shouts. He stops and looks down.

"Ness? Is that you? I can't see." he says, closing his eyes and patting his hands across her head.

"Silly, Eddie!" she giggles. He laughs and picks her up, planting a big kiss on her cheek.

"No. You're the silly one." he says, poking her nose.

"No, I'm not. You are." she argues, poking his nose back. They both bust up laughing, and I can't help but laugh along with them.

"Mommy says we have to go now." she says as she sticks her bottom lip out.

"Well, if Mommy said, then I guess it must be true. Have you had a good time?"

"I have. It's been AWESOME!!" she cheers loudly.

"Come on, Ness. It's time to go." Edward's other cousin, Masen, says as he walks over here.

"No!"

Masen sighs, running his hand through his hair - much like Edward does - before holding his hand out to Ness. "Come on, Nessie. Dad and Mom are waiting." he says.

"Fine." Nessie sulks. "But I want Eddie to take me to the car." she says, wrapping her arms around his neck. Edward agrees and says he'll be back in a minute, before walking off with his squealing little cousin.

"Bye Bella." she calls over his shoulder, waving at me. I wave back smiling.

A couple of minutes later, Sue comes over with Seth and Leah. They both give me a hug, saying goodbye.

"Where's Edward?" Leah asks hopefully, looking around us.

"He's out front, putting Nessie in the car. You'll probably see him on the way out." I say. She claps happily, before skipping off. Sue chuckles, shaking her head and rolling her eyes, before she and Seth follow Leah.

A minute after, Edward comes back, sitting back down beside me. "Hello Eddie." I tease as he grabs my hand. He groans, dropping his head back onto the cushion. "Please don't! Only Ness can call me that. She's six, it's cute when she says it." he says.

"Uh-huh. Whatever you say... Eddie." I reply with a smirk.

"I'm serious, Bella. Don't start that. You know how much I hate it." he warns. It's too tempting, so I begin teasing him.

"Eddie. Edwardo. Eddie-kins. Ed. Eddie. E-"

He cuts me off with a kiss. He's been doing that a lot recently - I like it. I close my eyes and press my mouth forward with more urgency.

"I knew it wouldn't be long before you two were a thing." someone says from nearby. I quickly pull away from Edward and look around, blushing because we got caught - even though we are in sight of other people.

Kate is stood to the right of us, wearing a stunning short, black sequin dress. It has a boat neck bodice, with short dolman sleeves that have slits along the top. The bodice tucks into an elastic waistband and fitted tube skirt. She's wearing the dress with a pair of black suede, pointed-toe heels, that lace up at the ankle. Stood next to her, holding her hand, is a tall man with sandy blonde hair.

Me and Edward remain silent, both feeling slightly awkward and embarrassed - Edward's cheeks are also tinted a bit red with his blush. "Do you mind if we join you?" Kate asks, pointing to the empty sofa chair to the right of us. We both gesture for them to take the seat.

"Bella, I'd like you to meet my boyfriend, Garrett. Garret, this Bella, the girl I was telling you about." she introduces us, saying the last part a bit quieter, but I still hear it.

"It's lovely to meet you, Bella." Garrett says politely, offering me a kind smile.

"You too." I say quietly. I don't know much about him, having never met him before. But it doesn't take too long for my brain to catch up with the current situation. "Oh!" I say, rather loudly. All three of them freeze and look at me. I blush, again, before carrying on. "You're Bree's brother."

"Yep, that's me. Edward mentioned that you speak to my sister." he says, sounding curious. I know their parents have put some distance between them, due to the fact that he believes Bree is as ill as she says. His parents aren't as convinced.

"I do, yes." I answer.

"How... how is she?" he asks, his voice breaking a bit. Kate rubs his arm in comfort.

"She's... Um, she's coping. I was in hospital just over a week ago, so I haven't spoken to her in a a couple of weeks. Last time I spoke to her she was doing okay. Or as okay as can be. Her, sorry, I mean your parents allowed her to attend a Millions Missing protest mid May." I tell him, mentally kicking myself for not speaking to her since leaving the hospital, so I'd have something more concrete to tell him.

"What's a Millions Missing protest?" he asks, sitting forward a bit. I explain what it is, and he listens intently. You can tell he loves his sister, and that he worries about her.

"I don't know if she'd be allowed, but I can pass your number on to her if you'd like. I think I remember her telling me that she had no way to contact you." I ask cautiously.

"Oh, wow. Yes, that would be great. Our parents changed her number, and took me out of her contacts. Unfortunately, she hadn't memorised it, so we haven't been able to speak at all. Thank you so much!" he says, sounding a little choked up.

"It's no problem. I know she'd love to speak to you. She misses you a lot." I say, hoping my words will make him feel a little better.

"Um... Edward has my number. Can you pass it on for me?" he asks Edward, who nods, before turning to me and smiling proudly. I blush, for what feels like the hundredth time tonight, and look down again.

"Sooo..." Kate begins, changing the subject, "when did this happen?" she asks, pointing between me and Edward. We both look at each other and smile, before Edward turns and answers.

{o0o}

Garrett and Kate have stayed in the comfy chair, but are now having a private conversation. They both look cosy, snuggled up into each other and speaking in an almost whisper.

The teasing and questioning from Kate didn't last long, thankfully. She was only messing, so I didn't mind.

Me and Edward are sat as close as we can, talking softly about nothing in particular. Just random things that come to mind. It's nice, and peaceful. Edward knows the Playlist that was made for the party, seeing as he and Alice worked on it together - the music was another one of the rare things he helped organise - and he keeps trying to guess the next song as each one ends. It's funny, because he hasn't got one right yet.

My belly rumbles as a song changes, so both of us can easily hear it. I blush when Edward laughs. He pulls his arm from the back of the cushions and sits forward. "Shall I go get us some food?" he asks. I nod eagerly. "Okay, I'll be back in a minute." he says, squeezing my hand, before standing up.

Just as he's about to walk away, the rest of the Denali's enter the seating area. All four of them - Elijah, Carmen, Tanya and Irina - stare over at me. They continue to stare as they go and sit in two of the empty chairs furthest away from me.

Edward turns back to me, looking hesitant to go. Kate notices our dilemma and says Edward's name, getting his attention. "We'll stay and keep Bella company. She'll be fine." she says.

Edward looks relieved and smiles before walking away, all the while casting glares at the four new arrivals. I look over at them and see they are still staring at me, though now they are whispering amongst each other too.

"Ignore them, Bella." Kate says. I nod and try to relax, but my eyes keep drifting over to the small group every few seconds.

"I like your top. Where did you get it?" Kate asks, trying to distract me, by engaging me in another conversation. I decide here and now, that I really like this Denali.

About five minutes later Edward returns, holding two plates. "I got your dad to help me put yours together. I wasn't sure what you liked." he says as he puts them down on his seat. He grabs a tray that was hidden under the table to my left, and passes it to me with a sheepish grin. I sit, my mouth gaping for a second or two, as he puts my plate on my tray. Did Alice think of everything?

{o0o}

The thunderous clapping around me causes my ears to go sensitive. I pull my shoulders up instinctively when they begin pulsing and throbbing, but manage to hide any other sign of discomfort. Alice and Edward finish blowing out all the candles on their cakes as the clapping continues.

The party has been going on for about an hour and forty-five minutes now. It still has a long while to go before its over. But for me, it's quickly coming to an end.

About ten minutes ago, I was struggling to stop myself from yawning. After the third one in the space of roughly ninety seconds, I knew I had to call it a night - even though I want to stay for the whole thing.

Edward noticed and reluctantly offered to go and tell my dad I was ready to leave. Charlie was stood with Esme and Carlisle, and Esme stopped us from leaving straight away, saying that we needed to stay for the cake. Apparently Alice and Esme had been waiting to do it for when I was ready to leave, so I didn't have to get up twice; 1. To join the gathering as everyone sang 'Happy Birthday', and 2. To leave.

They thought it would be easier for me, if they waited for me to be ready to leave, so I could do it all in one go.

I know I established it earlier on in the evening, but Alice, and Esme, really did think of everything in regards to my illness and my needs.

As the crowd begins thinning, people going back to their tables or the dance floor, I can finally move away from the food. If I stay next to these popcorn boxes any longer, I might not leave. Ever. Well, at least until all the food gone.

I stop when I reach Alice and Esme, who have now moved to the end of the gazebo while they wait for Carlisle to go and get two knives for the cakes. "Thank you for having me. This party has been amazing." I say to Esme.

Esme reaches down to hug me gently. "Thank you for coming, Bella. We hope you enjoyed yourself?"

"Definitely." I answer. Then I turn to Alice. "Happy birthday, Ali. Sorry I have to leave so early."

"Thanks, Bella. Don't worry about it. Thank you for coming."

"I wouldn't have missed it. Enjoy the rest of the night, and I'll hopefully see you tomorrow." I reply. She hugs me as tightly as she dares.

My dad pushes me towards the patio, then lifts me out of my chair. Edward is quick to help, carrying my wheelchair up the patio steps and setting it back down again. My dad places me back in it.

"I'm just going to see if Esme needs some help." my dad says, slowly backing away. That's his way of saying he'll give us a moment to say goodbye. Edward pushes me into the empty house.

As we pass through the living room, I see the large table set up by the back window, that has a mountain of presents on. "Woah." I breathe. I don't think I've ever seen so many presents in one place before.

We stop in the entrance hall. Edward puts my brake on, before walking round to the front of me. He bends down, wrapping his arms around me as best he can. I lift my arms, careful with my casted one, and hug him back. He pulls away and kisses me, lingering for a moment, before reluctantly pulling away.

"Happy birthday." I say, smiling.

"Thanks... I'll text you later."

"Okay, but don't worry about me. Go and have some fun." I say encouragingly. He smiles, leaning down to kiss me again. A throat clearing tears us apart. My dad is stood in the archway, smirking.

"I'll see you later." Edward says before walking away. He exchanges a goodbye with my dad and then leaves. Charlie gives me two boxes to hold: one full of slices of cake, and one full of some of the treats from the party. My dad tells me that Esme had saved some back for close family friends to take home.

Once we are in the car, I sigh happily, closing my eyes as I rest my head back. "How are you feeling, Bells?" my dad asks as he starts the car.

"Tired and sore. But it was well worth it." I answer, a big smile on my face. Absolutely worth it!

A/N: I really hope you enjoyed this one as much as I loved writing it. There will be a few posts going on my blog, with image links for this chapter, as soon as I have uploaded this. They will be images of Alice's room, outfits, and the party decor inspiration. The link to my blog is below (add a colon and forward slash 'here' and of course, add the DOTs):

httpshere/ksreaderDOTtumblrDOTcom

Please go and have a look.

I've checked over this a couple times so there shouldn't be many mistakes, but if there is, let me know! Please leave a review. Thanks!! See you next time!

- KS.reader