I've got a plan for these two. A good plan. At least, I think it's a good plan. We'll see. Thanks for sticking with me on this one. Too many plot bunnies, not enough hours in the day…I tell ya! I do apologize for the sporadic updates for Angels and Monsters. Not enough time in the day and too many ideas floating around in my head. Ya know?
I'm putting the author's note up here, not to muddy up the bottom. Thank you for those of you who have stuck with me with this story. I truly appreciate it. It took me a long time to finish it, but I'm so happy that I did. You can find pictures for this chapter on my blog and tumblr (links for those are in my profile). You can also find me on Facebook: Tufano79's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation and on twitter: tufano79. I hope you enjoy the final chapter of Angels and Monsters.
Chapter Twenty-Five: Epilogue
BPOV
Two Months Later
"Alice, I don't understand why I have to have so many fittings," Rose giggled on the pedestal as Alice was pinning her wedding gown. "I've been the same size since I was changed ninety years ago."
"I want your wedding to be perfect," Alice said, fluffing the hem of the skirt. "Well, I know it's going to be perfect because I'm planning it!" She pursed her lips, looking at the ivory silk. "It needs more, you know?" The dress was gorgeous, cut close to Rose's body, but flaring at mid-thigh. At the right knee, there were some rhinestones and sequins. It was missing something. I wasn't sure what.
"What about adding more to this?" Rose suggested.
"Hmmm, no," Alice answered. "That's fine."
"Why not add some more rhinestones to the bust? It will pull the whole thing together?" I said, pointing to the sweetheart neckline. "It will put a little more glamour to the wedding gown."
"Yes!" Alice squealed, pushing Rose into the bathroom so she could remove the dress. We were all in the Cullen home in the Pacific Northwest. After Edward and I returned from our month-long honeymoon, we found out that Emmett had proposed to Rosalie and the wedding planning was underway for a New Year's Eve event. Alice told me that I was essential in the planning and so Edward and I flew out there after we stopped in Chicago to close up our lives there.
He sold his condo in Trump Tower, but we kept mine since it was under an alias. Edward was still on sabbatical from his company and would stay under the radar for at least another year before he made any public appearances. He just wanted time to be with me. Despite our whirlwind mating, he wanted to spend the time to woo me and make me feel like the angel I was in his eyes. He wanted to take me out on dates, surprise me with gifts and just lose ourselves in our blissful happiness of being in love with each other. On top of all of that, he also wanted to get us a home, just for us. For now, we were staying in the third floor suite in the Cullen home in Forks. Alice had decorated it with Esme's help, reflecting our subtle, simple tastes. After Rose and Emmett's wedding, we'd find our own place, probably closer to Seattle since Edward was going bonkers being surrounded by all of the green.
He truly was a city boy.
"Bella, we have to get going," Alice said, taking Rose's dress. "We have an appointment with the florist and we have to finalize the invitations."
"Shouldn't Rosalie have a say in this?" I quipped, gesturing to the gorgeous bride.
"Alice is planning my first wedding since I'm impatient and I want it done now," Rose giggled. "The next one? All me. Besides, I trust her. She knows what I like. Don't forget to pick up your dresses, too!"
"I have an appointment with a dress maker in Port Angeles," Alice beamed, tugging on my arm. "The fabric will be a deep eggplant color, mirroring the cut of your dress. It will be perfect."
"I have no doubt," Rose smirked. "I'm off to hunt." Her eyes darkened and we knew that she was going to do more than just hunt. The predatory, feral smile that spread over her features was proof that she was sneaking off to be with Emmett for naked sexy times. Alice was trying, unsuccessfully, to keep them from fucking each other into oblivion, but they were insatiable for each other. They had taken to clandestine trips in the forest, returning covered in dirt, leaves, and sticks and with torn, clothing. Emmett was always smiling and Rose had a glow about her, indicating she was thoroughly fucked. In the best way ever, of course. She darted out of the house, jumping over the Sol Duc River. I could hear her thoughts as she reunited with Emmett and they quickly turned dirty, barely leaving our hearing range before clothes were shredded.
"Those two are …" Alice snorted, shaking her head. She carried the dress to her suite, draping it onto the unnecessary bed. "They're like nymphomaniac rabbits!"
"So?" I teased. "Don't you remember being newly mated?"
"Of course, I do," she said, arching a brow. "You and Edward have self-control."
"No, we don't," I snickered. "I just shield us from your prying, all-seeing eyes and you don't know." Alice gave me a wry glower. She pushed me down the stairs and we got into one of the numerous cars at our disposal. We chose a sleek black Mercedes, one of Carlisle's doctor-mobiles. I was eyeing Jasper's Porsche, but Alice said that he was the only one who could drive it. I was determined to get behind the wheel of that car, but didn't push it for now. Instead, I got into the passenger seat and prayed for my very life as Alice drove like a maniac to Port Angeles. Yes, I knew that I was virtually indestructible, but it didn't mean that I wanted to be thrown from the car at a hundred miles an hour.
It still fucking hurt.
"Oh, you and Edward are going out tonight. Something in Seattle," Alice chirped, her eyes dazed over as she parked in front of the florist. "I get to shop for a new dress for you!"
"And you know this how?" I chuckled. Alice pointed to her head, but I couldn't tell what she was thinking. She was translating The Great Gatsby into Mandarin Chinese. Then, my cell phone chirped from my purse. I picked it up, looking at the screen and saw a message from my husband.
My parents called me and they wanted to get together for dinner. I'm coming back from hunting with Carlisle. We're meeting them at Sky City at seven. They were talking about joining us for Christmas? Perhaps joining us at the Cullen house. ~ E
I can't wait to see Richard and Betsy. I've missed them so ~ B
You're not the only one, but I'm afraid she's going to hate me ~ E
I dialed Edward's number, slipping out of the florist and leaving Alice to make the decision about Rose's flowers. He picked up the phone immediately and I could hear the wind whipping because he was running home. "Edward, your mother would never hate you," I said, sitting down on a bench on the street. "She loves you and always will."
"Even though I'm technically dead," he sighed. "I don't look the same. My eyes aren't the same, my body is hard and cold and I don't eat food. I drink my meals."
"Edward, you've transitioned into this life in the most despicable times. You've never once tasted the blood of human. We've gone to war and survived. Dinner with your mother and Richard will be easy," I soothed.
"The scent of human food makes me sick," he hissed, a touch panic in his voice. "How did you do it with me? When I forced you to eat that chicken?"
"When we get back from the florist and making these decisions for the wedding, I'll give you eating lessons. But, I don't think you'll need to pretend to eat. She knows you've changed," I giggled. "Edward, all will be fine. I promise you."
"Okay," he replied, calming down significantly. "When will you be back?"
"If you want me back now, I'll run to the house," I whispered.
"No, no," he chuckled. "I'm just having an insecure moment. I'm sorry."
"Don't apologize, love," I said. "You watched over me as I healed mentally, physically and emotionally from what happened with James. Your love for me was what guided me back and now, it's my turn to be your rock." Alice waved at me from the shop. Her mind was barking at me, commanding me back inside. "Alice is beckoning. I'll be back at the house in two hours, with or without Alice. I promise."
"Okay," he laughed. "I love you, angel."
"I love you, too," I breathed. We hung up and thankfully, Alice was nearly done with her selections. She just wanted my approval before we went to a bakery to pick up a cake, even if no one was going to eat it. Alice insisted, since it was symbolic. She also had a secretive little smirk on her face, hiding her thoughts from me. I rolled my eyes, shielding myself from her cloak and dagger routine, figured I'd save myself a headache. The last stop before we went back to the house was a boutique. We picked up our eggplant colored bridesmaid gowns and a dress for my evening out with Edward, Richard, and Betsy. I drove us back to the Cullen house since I did not want to deal with Alice's driving. Handing me the cocktail dress, I darted up the stairs to the room I shared with my husband. He was just getting out of the shower, looking deliciously sexy with a towel slung around his waist and another in his hands, rubbing his wet hair. I wanted nothing more than to toss the towel from his body and have my way with him.
What's stopping you, angel? He smirked, teasing me with his towel.
"The fact that we have to get on the road in less than an hour," I quipped, my insides clenching at the possibility of waiting to make love to my husband, my mate. "And what I want to do will take longer than that."
Pity, he pouted, dropping his towel without shame and walking in his naked glory to the closet to get dressed. I whimpered, leaning against the bedframe. I gripped it so tightly. My hand had left an indent on the wrought iron frame. I shook off my desire and went to change in the bathroom, away from the tease who was my husband. Slipping on the navy blue lacy dress, I applied some makeup so I appeared more human. As I was twisting my hair up into a messy bun, my husband glided into the bathroom, wearing a pair of black dress pants, a white dress shirt and a charcoal gray sport coat. I pressed my legs together, trying to slow my need for him, but to no avail. I can smell how aroused you are, angel. What I wouldn't give to bend you over this counter and fuck you into oblivion?
"Edward Anthony Masen, behave," I hissed.
"I will when you will," he said, standing behind me and pressing his hardness between my ass cheeks. His large hands gripped my hips as he stared at me, his eyes pitch black. "Will we make it through dinner?"
Nope! Alice giggled mentally. You'll sneak away and have a tryst in the bathroom!
"Ooooh, public indecency," Edward growled, his lips finding my neck.
Since the death of James, our refusal of the Volturi and no more drama on the horizon, we'd fully explored our connection, only to realize that we were insatiable for each other. What caused me fear now made me quake with pleasure. Edward was an attentive, playful lover who had a wicked side, wanting to claim me in the most obscure or the most public of places. And I loved it. The most erotic moment was when we were in an opera house in Rome, watching La Boheme. We were in a booth and I was sitting on Edward's lap, riding him throughout the entire production. He had always enjoyed going to the opera, but now he loved the opera, especially with my pussy milking his cock as I came over and over again. As odd as it sounded, I loved every moment of what we shared, whether it be in the privacy of our own bedroom or out in the open. Sex with my mate was fun and always fulfilling. He healed me and made me truly happy, giving me a purpose in my existence.
Even if it did include sexual debauchery.
"And sexual debauchery is so much fun," he snickered, blowing a raspberry into my neck. I laughed, turning to face him. His eyes had faded back to their warm ochre hue. "But so is loving you." He smiled sweetly, leaning down to brush his lips with mine. He hummed contentedly, enfolding me into his strong embrace. Nipping at my lips, he pulled back. "So, what's the consensus on eating, Mrs. Masen?"
"Edward, she knows that you were changed. We will have to order something to keep up appearances, but you will not have to eat it. Just cut it up, shift it around the plate. Or, we can both order something that Richard or Betsy would like for leftovers," I said. Richard and Betsy were informed of the loss of their house by Jasper and Alice. They also told them of Edward's accident. Betsy was afraid that Edward had died, but I had saved him. Betsy deduced that I had to change him into a vampire. She was happy that I had saved him and that he would live out his life, eternally happy.
"I like the idea of ordering something they like. I hate for the food to go to waste," Edward said, wrinkling his nose. "And we're paying for dinner."
"Of course," I smiled, kissing his nose. "We should go, love. Even with our internal radar detectors, we can't always avoid traffic." He smiled crookedly, kissing me once more before we went downstairs to the garage. We took the same Mercedes to Seattle. It wasn't my Ferrari, but it was a smooth ride. Alice did warn us about an accident on the I-5, suggesting a different route. Parking the car, we met up with Richard and Betsy at the restaurant. When looking at them, they were much the same, but with a few new wrinkles and some more gray hair, or in Betsy's case, a very good dye job. The only indication her hair color wasn't natural was the slight chemical scent that came from her locks.
Betsy took a tentative step toward Edward. I subtly shielded him from her scent. She was nearly as enticing as Edward was and one false move could be disastrous. I didn't know if Edward was fazed by it, but I'd rather err on the side of caution. Edward's thoughts were appreciative once his mother's blood was shielded and I knew I had done the right thing. Betsy looked at her son, who had transformed into a beautiful, confident vampire. She registered the change, his beauty, the warmth in his eyes and paleness of his skin. She hesitantly reached up, caressing his cool cheek. She was not prepared to feel how cool he was or how silky his skin felt against her palm. He shuddered, his eyes fluttering shut and the familiar feeling having her touch him, but shocked at how warm her skin felt against his. "You were so handsome before," she whispered, her thumb rubbing underneath his eyes. He looked at her, his eyes swimming with love for his mother. "Now … you look like an angel." She bit her lip, anxious at her next request. So was I. Could Edward handle it? "Can I hug you?"
"Of course, Mom," he said, his voice sounding deep and his emotions barely contained. A few tears slipped from her eyes and she slid her arms around his neck. So gently, like she was made of glass, he held her close, burying his nose into her hair. He asked me, mentally, to remove my shield and I did. No bloodlust came. Only the love between a mother and her son. Breaking apart, she smiled crookedly at him, running her fingers through his wayward hair. "Even immortality can't save this mess."
"That may be true, but I'm rather glad that I can still at least try," she laughed, hugging him once more before turning to me. "Bella …" she trailed off. I don't know how to thank you for saving my boy. My sweet baby boy … I know you will love him forever and always. She enfolded me in a warm hug, reminding me of the hugs my mother used to give me at the end of a long day. I missed my own mother and I allowed myself the comfort before pulling away. With another beaming grin, she led us to the podium at the doorway of the elevator. "Shall we?"
We rode up the elevator to Sky City, the restaurant in the Space Needle. Richard had made reservations and we were seated immediately at one of the booths overlooking the city. The restaurant slowly rotated so we could overlook the twinkling lights of Seattle. Richard and Betsy ordered a bottle of wine and like I had suggested, Edward and I ordered meals that Betsy and Richard could take back to their home in Bellevue.
Over dinner, we talked about their new home and their plans to make their move permanent. I think part of it was Betsy wanted to be closer to Edward. Chicago, while beautiful, was not an ideal spot for a vampire. There were too many sunny days. If I hadn't met Edward, I probably would have moved from Chicago. The Pacific Northwest was better, with more rain and cloudy days.
While they ate dessert, we told them about Rose and Emmett's wedding on New Year's Eve. A flash of sadness filled Betsy's eyes. I saw a glimpse of Ruth, Emmett's mother, dance across her mind. "You should come," I said, smiling at both of them. "And invite Ruth."
"But … Ruth … I don't know. She thinks that Emmett is dead," Betsy chided gently. "She's been inconsolable, staying with her sister in Topeka."
Edward looked at me, his mind reeling. Why don't we go visit Ruth? Tell her that Emmett is not dead? All she ever wanted was to see her son get married. I nodded imperceptibly, getting the information from Betsy's mind. My phone vibrated from my purse and I knew it was Alice, probably confirming our travel itinerary.
Edward, we can give her the wedding, but Emmett will have to remain 'dead' in her eyes. Humans are not supposed to know about us. Ruth, your parents, they can get into real trouble with the Volturi, I warned.
"Or you could just destroy them," he said, too low for Richard and Betsy to hear. I rolled my eyes, smacking his arm. "And I know that my parents knowing is an issue, but they wouldn't tell anyone."
I know, I smiled, leaning over, kissing him. Turning back to Richard and Betsy, I gave them the address for the Cullen's. I invited them for Christmas, which was a few days away and asked them to stay until the wedding for Emmett and Rose. The eagerly agreed to come. Edward was bubbling with happiness. Settling the bill, we went our separate ways. Well, Richard and Betsy went down to their car while Edward dragged me into the ladies room, locking the door and fucking me in front of the mirror, thanking me for giving him Christmas with his parents.
xx A&M xx
After Christmas, Edward and Betsy flew to Topeka to meet up with Ruth. Alice said that if I had gone, Ruth wouldn't have come since she didn't know me. With Betsy and Edward, she would recognize them and believe the truth that Emmett was still alive. Thankfully, she agreed to come to Seattle and was staying with Betsy and Richard until Emmett's wedding, which was happening in less than twenty-four hours.
The Cullen house was being transformed into a chapel, reception hall and honeymoon suite. We also had to work on creating a menu for our three human guests. The wedding was going to be small, like mine, but unlike mine, it was over the top, fancy and ostentatious. Rosalie wanted glitz and glam. She got it, in spades. The guys were working on making the house into a romantic but sexy. Lights were hung up, sheer chiffon was draped all over the walls and the entire house was rearranged, most of the furniture stored in the garage so we could have a proper dance floor, an elegant platform for the ceremony and space for a buffet, complete with a large table with a delectable looking wedding cake on it.
Carlisle was performing the ceremony. In addition to our immediate family, Carmen, Eleazar, Peter and Charlotte were coming to the wedding. Kate was grieving the death of her sister and Garrett was supporting her. They did send their love, but they were too sad to attend the wedding. Kate had lived with Irina for a long time, over a thousand years and not having her was like she was missing a limb.
By mid-afternoon, the house had been completely transformed and we were now working on the bride and groom. Jasper and Edward were out with Emmett, hunting with him. They were preparing him to see his mother again. Emmett was anxious and excited. I was apprehensive since both Emmett and Edward were so new to this life. I trusted my mate, but Emmett was still adjusting to being back on the vegetarian diet. I knew my shield would be needed.
"Bells! Focus, woman!" Alice laughed. "You've been spacing out since the guys left."
"Sorry," I said, picking up a lock of Rose's hair, curling it around the curling iron.
"She's wary about the humans being around Emmett," Rose said as she painted her nails with a deep purple color. "I don't blame her. I love that Emmett's mom is coming to our wedding, but he's just now getting used to going out in public. What if he …?"
"He won't," Alice chirped. "Things will go well with Ruth. They will even be able to maintain a relationship. It will be veiled in secrecy, but they will. They will be able to be happy."
"And the Volturi?" I asked.
"They won't know it. After our visit, Aro has made it abundantly clear that we are to not to be touched," Alice smiled, applying Rose's makeup with a deft touch. "Whatever Bella has on them, it has them quaking in their boots."
"Do you know, Alice?" Rose questioned.
"Nope. Bella keeps it hidden in a part of her brain that no one can access, not even Edward," Alice answered, giving me a sour look.
"We're all allowed to have some secrets, Alice," I chided, setting the curling iron down and pinning Rose's hair half up, securing it with a rhinestone clip. She looked like a starlet from years ago, seductive and elegant. "I'm going to put on my dress." I went into my suite and picked up my dress, changing into it. As I was putting on the jewelry, Edward walked in. He was still dressed casually, looking windblown. "How's Emmett?"
"So incredibly excited to marry Rose, but nervous about seeing his mother again," he answered, stripping out of his clothes. He darted into the shower, scrubbing his body. "In only a few hours, he'll be facing the woman who brought him into the world and the woman he will be marrying, spending the rest of his eternal life with." But, he's so happy and appreciative of what we've done for him. Alice's mind is showing a happy ending tonight. He walked out of the shower, looking scrumptious. Remember the last time we had a moment like this? We ended up defiling the bathroom at Sky City.
"I know, I know," I giggled. "You get dressed. Your boutonniere is on the kitchen counter, Edward." And tonight, we will celebrate the New Year, our new lives in the way that only we know how. I smiled secretly, giving him a glimpse of what I wanted to do. He groaned, adjusting his hardness underneath the towel. With a flip of my own curled hair, I went down to Rose's suite to finish helping her get ready. Esme was taking photos, saving these moments for posterity. Not that we needed them. We had photographic memories, but having pictures from the wedding kept us bonded to our humanity. Alice had given Edward and me a disc with the photos from our wedding. As soon as our home was completed, the pictures would be hung on the walls.
A couple of hours later, all of our guests were at the house. Emmett was waiting in Carlisle's office. I knew that he could hear the heavy, wet heartbeats in the other room. Even though I was a floor away, I shielded Emmett. His thoughts were erratic, focused on the pumping blood. He settled when the scents were shielded.
Music from the expensive sound system filtered throughout the house as the lights twinkled on. Alice beamed, thrusting us the bouquets that were delivered earlier. "It's time," she sang. Opening the door, she gestured for me to go. Gripping the bouquet, I descended the stairs. Immediately, I found Edward's golden eyes. He smiled, his mind exploding with love and joy. Taking my place across from the men, I watched as Alice glided down the stairs, her happiness vibrating out of her skin. I knew that Jasper was enhancing the emotions of the room, most of them coming from the plump, older woman seated next to Betsy. She had bright blue eyes, trained directly onto her immortal son. She was crying, but not tears of sadness, but ones of absolute joy.
The ceremony was beautiful. Emmett was in awe of his bride, thinking she was the most beautiful thing on the planet. He barely made it through his vows since he was so flummoxed by his mate. The happiness from Ruth and the lust from both Emmett and Rose were causing an interesting mix of emotions for the rest of us. Jasper was barely hanging on, his eyes were as black as pitch. Once Carlisle proclaimed Emmett and Rose husband and wife, they kissed and Jasper bolted out of the house. I shielded both Emmett and Rose, smiling politely as they practically molested each other on the raised platform. It wasn't until Ruth cleared her throat did they break apart. If it were possible, I'm certain both of them would have been blushing. Carlisle, with laughter in his voice, announced Rose and Emmett and they ran down the aisle, smiling happily. Edward offered his arm to both Alice and me, walking us down the aisle.
After the ceremony, our human guests enjoyed the food. Emmett had not really spoken to his mother, due to his fear of hurting her physically and his need to be next to his mate. The time came for Emmett to spend time with his mother when Carlisle swooped in as father of the bride, dancing with her. Emmett hesitantly approached his mom, asking to talk to her in the living room. Emmett asked me to stay close in case it was too much for him, being the enclosed space with his mom.
"Emmett," she whispered, her voice rough with emotion and from her prior smoking habit. "I thought … I thought I lost you. And then, Betsy came with Edward, explaining that you had changed."
"I did, Mom," Emmett whispered, sitting down on the white leather sofa that was in the room. "I was taken from my apartment and changed into this. A vampire. A creature of the night."
"But, you're okay?" Ruth squeaked out, her heart rate climbing with anxiety. "Edward said that you were taken captive and forced to do things …"
"I'm fine now. I couldn't have done it without my best friend, my wife and my family," he replied, his mind filled with all of us, but Edward taking a predominant role in his memory. "It's been a long road since I slipped from my diet back in November, but everything is …It's a work in progress."
"What do you mean? Slipped in your diet?" Ruth asked.
Pushing my mind to Emmett's, I hissed, Don't say anything. She'll get upset at what you 'eat.'
"Nothing to be worried about," Emmett said, his voice tight and squeaky sounding. Bella, it's becoming too much. I don't know if I can stay in here. I need help. Kissing my mate, I swept into the room and smiled sweetly at Ruth. I covered Emmett with my shield and he visibly relaxed. Thanks, Bella.
"Ruth, would you like something to drink?" I asked, offering her my arm. "I know my sister made a delicious raspberry bellini in honor of Emmett and Rose's wedding. It's delicious." Ruth took my arm, in a daze from my slightly forceful tone. I also did encourage her to give Emmett some breathing room. We got two glasses of the fizzy drink, chatting about her new life in Topeka. Alice's mind smacked me like a ton of bricks.
She won't be able to handle it. She loves her son, but she will eventually share our secret with a neighbor. The Volturi will kill her, Edward's parents and will threaten to destroy us. We will give her this and then, we will have to make her forget, Alice thought sadly. Emmett will watch her from a distance, but he is resigned to the fact that his relationship with his mother is forfeit.
Are you certain? I asked Alice, pushing my thoughts to her.
Both Edward and Alice replied, too quiet for Ruth to hear. "Yes." I found my mate's eyes, so sad for his best friend. I frowned briefly before turning to continue my discussion with Ruth about some romance novel about vampires. She believed them to romantic, seductive creatures. She was having a hard time wrapping her head around the fact that her son was now a vampire, a being that she believed only ever existed in books and novels.
Shortly before midnight, Emmett danced with his mother. His heart was heavy, saying his final goodbyes to her. Rose was silently supportive. After the strike of midnight, I would have another conversation with her and change her memories of Emmett. I would compel her to believe that he got his happily ever after with the woman of his dreams just prior to his death in Chicago. I would give her the romantic, fairy tale ending that she dreamed of for her child. Unfortunately, he would not be able to live it due to his untimely death.
With the New Year quickly approaching, I fell into Edward's arms, snuggled into his embrace. He held me securely, his cheek resting on my curled hair. Emmett and Ruth were still dancing. Rose was in the arms of Jasper, trying to maintain a happy façade, though her thoughts were reeling for her mate. When the clock struck midnight, Emmett hugged his mother, saying he loved her with all of his heart. Edward kissed me softly, his mind soothing me as I prepared to erase Ruth's memory and lull her into a deep sleep. Betsy and Richard called to Ruth and I knew it was my cue.
Guiding Ruth to the foyer, I stared into her eyes. Unleashing the full power of my gift, I rewrote history. Emmett fell in love with Rosalie Hale. They got married with a fairy tale wedding but they died in a car crash on their way back from the honeymoon. Emmett loves you and always will. He also loved his wife. He was happy when he died and will always watch over you. I pressed my hand to her cheek and slightly stunned her into a deep sleep. Edward caught her, carrying her out to Richard's SUV.
Emmett walked up behind me, his thoughts at peace. "I know that you paid for my funeral, Bella," he whispered. "Even though I blindly hated you, you took care of me and my mother. You also gave me a chance to properly say goodbye to her. I will always thank you and love you for that."
"I didn't do that," I said, rubbing his arm.
"No, you did. All of you did," he replied, giving me a sad grin. "I'm grateful and happy that she will know that I'm okay, in love and always watching over her. That is best wedding present I could ever ask for." Emmett wrapped me in an embrace, his thoughts appreciative and loving. I tried to link my arms around his waist, but Emmett was just so big that my fingers barely touched behind his back. He snickered, kissing my head before dancing off to find his bride. Edward took his spot and nuzzled my cheek.
"You made his year, Angel," Edward whispered against my neck. "He can't even begin to express his feelings but he's just brimming with gratitude. I can only imagine what Jasper is feeling."
"The gratitude and a hell of a lot of lust," I giggled, burrowing into his arms. I don't know about you, but I'm about ready to burst. I need you, love.
His eye darkened and he pulled me closer to his body. It's a good thing that Alice helped me arrange for a surprise for you. You can have me. Any. Time. You. Want. He scooped me up, running through the forest behind the Cullen house. I nibbled on his neck, tasting his sweet flavor and causing him to go mad with desire. Arriving at our destination, Edward placed me on the ground in front of an adorable little cottage. It was something out of a fairy tale, rustic but elegant at the same time. He wrapped his arms around my waist and nuzzled my neck. "I still would like something closer to the city, but I know that you wanted to be close to our family. Alice and Esme said that this place was out here for a while and it's ours, if we want it."
"I want it," I breathed, tugging on his arms and walking toward the entrance. The doorway had twinkle lights all around it, shimmering with the lightly falling snow. Turning on my heel, I smiled, filled with carnal desires. "And I want you."
With a rumbling growl, he pushed me inside and we managed to christen the front door, the couch and the top of his piano before dawn broke. We were nowhere ready to stop. It was only the beginning.
xx A&M xx
Five Years Later
"Bella, our flight is taking off in two hours," Edward called to me. I was paralyzed in our bedroom in our home in Hanover, New Hampshire, staring at a half-packed suitcase. We had stayed near the Cullen's until they moved away from Forks two years after we had arrived. Carlisle was looking too young to pass for nearly thirty-five, even with fake glasses. It was time to go and Hanover was their next stop. Alice, Jasper, and Rose had enrolled in a local high school. Emmett was not ready to deal with the dealings of being an eternal student so he opened up a garage. Edward did the website and maintained the books. I ended up working with Esme with her interior design firm, acting as her assistant.
Edward and I had a modest but warm home a few miles away from the new Cullen house, playing the part of a newlywed couple trying to get on their feet. We were Mr. and Mrs. Edward Cullen, the niece and nephew of Carlisle Cullen. Well, Edward was the nephew and I just married into the family.
Today, we were flying to Phoenix. Edward wanted me to go to visit my parent's graves earlier, but I was hesitant. I wanted to say goodbye, but it was a reminder that they were no longer with me. They had searched for me and died, waiting to hear anything. Instead, they passed away, never knowing what had happened to me. Yes, my disappearance was eventually ruled an accidental death, but there was no body in the casket they buried and no closure.
I hated myself for doing that to them.
Monster, my subconscious snarled at me.
Edward was in front of me, looking pissed off. "I heard that," he said, his golden eyes narrowed. "You haven't thought that in a long time, Bella."
"I thought I was shielded," I muttered, closing the suitcase. "I just feel so guilty that they never found out what happened to me. They died thinking that I abandoned them. No answers. No goodbye." My fists clenched, anger zipping through me like wildfire. "They probably hated me."
"Bella, angel," Edward soothed, taking my face in his hands. "Your parents could never hate you. From your memories, I could only see complete devotion and love. They wanted everything for you and worked very hard for you to get it." I know that going to Phoenix is going to reopen some wounds, but to fully heal, it needs to be done. You need to say goodbye to Charlie and Renee. You need to say goodbye to Mary Anne.
I frowned, remembering the girl I protected. The girl who I welcomed into my home as a teenager and became my best friend and sister. The girl who was almost ravaged by James, but wasn't because I saved her. I put myself in James' sights like a sacrificial lamb.
Edward's thumbs caressed my cheeks and he stared at me. I sniffled before falling into his arms. We held each other for a few moments before I pulled away, zipping up the suitcase. With a newfound determination, I walked down to garage, loading the bag into the trunk. Edward handed me my purse and we drove to the nearby airport, just barely making our flight to Phoenix. We arrived just as the sun dipped below the horizon. Edward got our rental car, driving us to a nicer hotel that he had reserved for us for our weekend stay. Betsy and Richard were also in town, visiting Richard's daughter who lived in Scottsdale. She had just had a baby and they were being the doting, loving grandparents.
Settling into our room, Edward and I lay in the bed until I finally processed how I was feeling about being back in the city where I grew up, where I was changed and where my parents were buried. Just after midnight, we went out and drove to the college campus that I attended while I was a human. It had changed drastically since I was there, but I showed Edward where the party happened. It was now a parking lot. Apparently the frat house had burnt down in the mid-seventies. It was never replaced and it became a staff parking lot.
The location on the quad where I was attacked, however, was still the same. The trees were bigger, but the spot where James had taken me was still intact. The concrete glittered under the street lamps and the brutal memories of my last moments as a human came barreling back. Edward held me up as I relived that horrific moment. He quietly reassured me that James was gone, by my powers. He would never hurt me again. The only touch I'd feel was his and it would always be pleasurable.
To erase that memory, he replaced it with something else. He was sexy and seductive, taking me to the music building and we made love on the stage, on top of the Steinway piano that was gleaming under the bright stage lights. I was so lost in my orgasm that neither one of us heard the security guard's thoughts. We were almost caught. Streaking out of the auditorium, we dressed as we ran, making it back to the hotel just as the sun was rising. We spent the day ravishing each other and destroying the room. Edward wanted to show me that I was the only thing that mattered.
We met Betsy and Richard for dinner. I was still quiet, upset that I still hadn't visited my parents' grave. Betsy seemed to know something was off with me. "Bella, I need to go to the little girl's room. Join me?" she asked, her eyes twinkling.
"Sure," I said, getting up from the table. We walked to the restroom and Betsy pulled me inside, locking the door. Despite her humanity, Betsy was able to hide her thoughts. I couldn't get a clear glimpse of what she was thinking. Her step-granddaughter was in the forefront of her mind, but it was hiding her true intentions. "What's up?"
"You seem quiet, dear," Betsy said, taking my hand. "Edward told me briefly that you lived here previously." He didn't say much, but he did tell me that you were changed in Phoenix and that your family was from here.
"I grew up here. I lived in Arizona all of my human life," I whispered. "Once I woke up, I didn't stay in one place for too long and I avoided coming here since the pain of not remembering my family and obviously, the sheer amount of sunlight."
Betsy smirked, remembering when she saw Edward glitter like a disco ball. She thought he was gorgeous, but Edward, like most straight, male vampires, hated it. Her smirk fell away when she saw the pain in my eyes. "There's more. Talk to me, Bella. You are not just my son's wife. You're my daughter, too."
I gasped, looking at Betsy. I never really considered her to be family. Esme had become my mother figure, for all intents and purposes. She was who I turned to when I had a problem and she gave me the attention I needed. Betsy, she was someone I respected, but I never thought of her as my mother. Partly because she was human and that she was Edward's mom. I didn't want to encroach on her relationship with him.
"You look so surprised, Bella," Betsy said, brushing my hair off my shoulders. "I know that technically you're older than me, but I love you like a daughter. And I know when my children are troubled. What's wrong? Please, talk to me."
And like that, the floodgates opened and I shared with her my guilt, self-hatred and anger about what had happened to me. I explained how I was upset that my parents died not knowing I was okay and that I was upset at not remembering how much they loved me. I felt like a horrible daughter, never going to their grave. Betsy's eyes softened as she pulled me into a tight embrace. I clung to her, holding her gingerly.
"Where are your parents buried?" Betsy asked.
"St. Francis Cemetery," I replied. "It's closed now."
"And you have super strength," she smirked. "You don't have to do this by yourself, Bella." Walking to the door, she flipped it open. We walked back to the table. Betsy told Richard to pay the bill and we had an errand to run. The bill was paid. The four of us drove to St. Francis Cemetery, just behind the church when I was human. It was just after ten at night. Edward made quick work of the lock on the cemetery gates. Richard was a bit hesitant to go in, but we all walked inside, reaching the Swan family plot. The headstone was beautiful. It was a soft gray granite, with two swans making a heart with their heads. In between, there was a baby with a halo around the head. My parent's names were elegantly etched into the stone. I could tell that a vampire did it with their finger. No human could get the script so perfect.
You're right, angel, Edward thought to me, his arm around my waist. Jasper took care of your family and he arranged for his headstone. It's his handwriting that is on the stone. "He told me when I was over at the house, arranging our stay."
I nodded, not saying anything out loud or even replying mentally. I sank to the ground, looking at the headstone, trying to remember more about my parents. My human memories were hazy due to the vault they were locked in because of James' bite. I could faintly recollect my mother's perfume, her kind eyes and her warm hugs. My father was a bit more distant. My strongest memory of him was a striking mustache and his tall, straight posture.
"We'll give you a few moments," Betsy said, running her fingers through my hair. They walked away and I sat in front of the headstone that marked the final resting place for my parents and me. I traced the names of my parents, my mind silent and my heart heavy.
"I bet you're curious," I whispered after a few minutes. "How am I still here? Why do I look the same? Why am I not with you?" I took a shuddering breath. "I was hurt. Badly." I told the gravestone my story. I told them about my change, how I became a vampire and the nearly fifty years of living like a monster. Sorry, Edward.
It's okay, angel. You and I both know that's the farthest thing from the truth, Edward thought to me.
I smiled, telling my parents about Edward, our love and our happy marriage. I also told them about the war we had to fight in order to get our happily ever after. I spoke for over an hour. It wasn't until I heard Richard's snoring that I knew I had been at the grave for far too long. I send my goodbyes, pressing my fingers to the headstone. Getting up from the ground, I met up with Edward and Betsy. They were seated in the back of the rented SUV. Richard was in the backseat, sawing logs.
"I'm sorry that I took so long," I murmured, twisting my wedding set.
"Nonsense," Betsy said, hugging me gently. "This was something that you had to do and you needed your family to help you do it. I mean, Edward is an amazing husband, but sometimes you need the encouragement of a mother."
"Mom wants to adopt you," Edward snickered.
My eyes widened. "You do?"
"Bella, you're so easy to love. I would be so happy if you wanted to call me mom, share your stories and frustrations or just call to say hello," Betsy smiled. "I love you, Bella. You made my son happy, saved him when he was hurt and you will always be a part of our family."
"I love you, too," I sniffled, throwing my arms around her. Gently, of course. We both cried, swaying in the darkness of St. Francis Cemetery. It wasn't until Edward's arms wrapped around us that our circle was complete. I was lucky. I had a human family that loved me when I was human. Now, I had a human family to love and to love in return. Not to mention an immortal family who will always be with us.
But, in our hearts, the love of our parents will always be cherished the most. And I had three sets of parents who loved me and for as long as I roamed the earth, they would have my devotion and love.
xx A&M xx
Twenty-Five Years Later
"I'll put this stuff away. We're going to drop it off at a local food bank," Alice said quietly, looking at all of the food left over from the funeral. "You go to him. He needs you." I nodded, thanking Alice for taking care of everything that needed to be done. I ran off, in search of my husband. I tracked him easily, finding him at the brownstone in Chicago that had been rebuilt after it was burnt by James and his newborns, nearly thirty years ago. I had purchased it from Betsy and Richard when they decided to sell and using my perfect memory, had it rebuilt exactly the way it was prior to being engulfed in flames.
Betsy and Richard stayed married for the rest of Richard's life. He died ten years ago from a sudden heart attack. Betsy never truly recovered. Her mind was intact, for the most part, but she wasted away, missing her husband and best friend for twenty-five years. No one should have to bury two husbands and a son. Even though the son stayed in contact from wherever we lived. It wasn't until Betsy fell and broke her hip that she began to decline rapidly two years ago. The once vibrant woman I remembered was now a shell of her former self until she died, peacefully, in her sleep, holding Edward's hand. He shattered when her heart stopped beating. He had become a ghost, going through the motions of playing the grieving 'grandson.'
Edward Masen, Jr. had died in a car crash after we had had a 'son' and he was now acting as his own heir. It was weird for him to be at the funeral home, thanking the people who came and acting like her grandson, not her son. He was a puppet throughout the whole thing. He just did as he was told, not really living. His ochre eyes were dead and sad.
In the house, I found Edward seated at the grand piano. He was idly pressing a few keys and staring blankly at the photos that were on top of them. His posture was defeated and he just looked so small. "Edward," I whispered, closing the door and walking toward him. I sat down next to him. Physically, I was close, but there was a wall between us. Talk to me, love.
He didn't respond at first. He just kept plucking notes on the piano. He closed his eyes, heaving a sigh. "I can't believe she's gone," he muttered.
"She's been gone for a while, Edward," I frowned. "Her thoughts were so jumbled at the end."
"I know," he whispered. "She barely recognized me, asking for my father more times than not. I knew she was going to die. I accepted that. She wasn't immortal. I was just hoping for a few more years. You know?"
"Edward, she was nearly ninety years old," I said, moving closer, wrapping my arm around his waist.
"I know. And she was in constant pain," he said, his eyes clamping shut. "Pain of two broken hearts and the pain of growing old." Selfishly, I wished she was still with us.
"We were lucky, Edward," I murmured, brushing his hair away from his forehead.
"We were. Unlike Emmett, I got to maintain a relationship with my mother and stepdad," he said, smiling softly. Emmett did watch his mother from a distance until she died seven years ago from a brief, but aggressive battle with cancer. Ruth had gotten remarried and was so happy until the end. Edward's soft nuzzle to my throat brought me back to the present. "She got to see you walk across the stage, getting your degree in psychology. She saw me get my doctorate in music. I got to spend time with her, relishing every moment and I am so happy for that."
"But, you miss her," I said, leaning my cheek against his bicep.
"It's hitting me so hard," he rasped. "Is it because I'm a vampire?"
"Yes. When we experience emotions, they are so much more. Our kind, we struggle with change. This is a huge change, love," I replied. "It will take some time for you to get over it, but I'll always be with you. Don't ever doubt that. I love you for eternity, Edward. Your mother, even though she's no longer with us, she loves you, too."
"How long?" he asked, his voice sounding like a whine. "How long will I feel this emptiness?"
"It never really goes away," I soothed. "Even though I didn't remember much of my parents, the pain of losing them is still here. That pain does go away when I visit their graves, but it's always there."
He turned to me, straddling the piano bench. He pulled me into his arms, burying his nose into my hair. I know that I'm lucky because I got to be with her when she died. I know I'm lucky that I had that relationship with her. I also know that I'm lucky that I have you, too. "Thank you," he whispered, his eyes sparkling with venomous tears. "Thank you for sharing your life with me, loving me and just … everything. You gave me the greatest gift with your love, but the solace of knowing my mother was happy and able to be a part of my life? That was just amazing."
"Your mother was a special, sassy woman. She loved you so much," I said, moving closer to my husband. "I miss her, too. She may not have been the woman who gave birth to me, but she was my mother, too. Betsy filled a void that I had in my heart for so many years. Yes, Esme is there for me and I love her for it, but I feel like Esme is more of a confidante than a mom." She may not have been all there at the end, but she was thrilled that you had someone to love you, cherish you forever.
"I do have that and I won't ever let you go," he said, his eyes brightening and the familiar warmth filling them again. "You are truly an angel, Bella. My angel. You gave me everything I ever dreamed of and more." He leaned forward, tenderly brushing his lips with mine. I whimpered, sliding my hands into his disheveled hair. He crushed me to his chest, his forehead pressed to mine. "My beautiful angel. I love you so."
"And I love you," I whispered back, my heart bursting with emotion for the beautiful man holding me. He had given me so much in the thirty years we'd been together. We had come together, changed and grown as mates, lovers and friends. He had changed my opinion of myself. He truly believed that I was an angel and I finally believed him. I was no longer a monster of the night, a hellish creature feeding on the dregs of society. I was Edward's mate, his wife and his own personal angel.
But in reality, he was the angel. And always will be.
And I will love him for all eternity, my own personal vampire angel.
Fin