I'd like to send a shout out to a couple of people who have been seriously making writing this story so much fun. Thank you to Leslie (StarttheFantasy), Ashley (edwardsouthernbella), Stephanie (luvstwilight09), Lexi (SexyLexiCullen), Kiki (kikithedreamer) and Kyla (theonlykyla) for their support and pimp-age of the story. I love you, ladies! MUAH! Also, thank you to the ladies of The Lemonade Stand for their mention on their blog! Thank you to Wendy from TwilightFicZone for the wonderful review on her blog! I'm truly humbled at the response to this story. I mean, wow! Also to all of my frequent reviewers…you know who you are, especially Sandra, M! Your reviews and words of encouragement make me so happy. And they make me write faster!
Also, I don't own any of this. I make no money for writing these stories. Though I would like to. I just need to get an original thought or characters. Or something...
Chapter Twenty-Six: Engaged and Moving
BPOV
Holy mother fucking shit on a cracker with cheddar cheese sauce. I'm ENGAGED! I have the most beautiful ring on my finger. That sparkles so beautifully. Shiny…Pretty shiny thing…I love pretty shiny things. I can stare it all day. Look at the sparkles.
Snap out if it Bella. It's a ring.
Your engagement ring.
I'm getting married to my Prince Charming!
Geek Charming…
"Bella, you're spacing, girlfriend," Rose snickered. "What are you thinking about?" I blinked out of my reverie and waggled my finger, giving her a huge grin. "It's a beautiful ring. Can you believe it?"
"No. I can't believe he's here. In our room. And he proposed, Rose. Edward proposed to me. I'm going to be his wife. His WIFE! I'm getting married," I gushed.
"And you need to breathe and face the other way. Only half of your head is curled," Rose said with a wide grin. I twisted and Rose worked on my hair, curling it with a large barreled curling iron. After she finished my hair, she attacked my face with some makeup. My face was soft and feminine with a dusty green on my eyes. She smirked as she pointed to my ring. Afterward, she handed me a dusty green dress and a pair gold shoes. She also handed me some matching underwear. How she knew this, I have no idea. But I'm not going to question Rose. Perhaps an omniscient little dwarf told her that I needed some fancy clothes.
"Here's your jewelry and purse. I've already given Edward the key to your room to bring your suitcases into his suite. It's gorgeous, by the way. I've given Edward a small present from me for you to wear tonight." I blushed and gave Rose a pointed glare. "It's elegant and classy. Don't look at me like I'm some sort of slut."
"Rosalie…"
"Okay, I am a slut, but we don't need to emphasize that," Rose said with a smile. "Congratulations Mrs. Cullen." Rose hugged me and ushered me back into her room. Edward was sitting on the couch. His suit coat was draped over the desk chair. "Now, Edward, take good care of my girl."
"I intend to, Ms. Hale," Edward said with a crooked smile. "We're going San Rocco for dinner and then we're going to Chicago. I'll have her back at a decent hour."
"So you can give her some good loving, right?" Rose asked with a lascivious grin.
"Rosalie!"
"What?"
"Ignore her. She's got sex on the brain."
"So do I," Edward admitted.
"At least you can control your mouth," I said, giving Rose a pointed stare. "This one has no filter. At all."
"I've gone two months without sex, Isabella Marie Dwyer, soon-to-be Cullen," Rose snarled. "I'm horny and I want to get laid."
"Go to a bar and find some manmeat," I offered.
"No. I'm not going to some bar and finding some random boy to fuck. After seeing you two fawn and fall all over each other, I want that," Rose sighed. "I want a man to love me. Give me the world. Make me feel special." Rose looked down to her feet and she sniffled. "I want my own 'Edward.'"
Edward stood up and walked over to Rose. He gently cupped her chin. She looked up at him, tears falling down her cheeks. "You'll find it, Rosalie. I have no doubt that some man will find you to be intelligent, funny, beautiful and will want to give you the world on a silver platter," Edward promised. He kissed her cheek and hugged her tightly. He whispered something in her ear. Rose nodded and wiped her cheeks.
"Have fun, you two. I love you, Isabella," Rose said as she hugged me. In my ear, she whispered, "Don't ever let him go. He's the best man I've ever met and ever known." My stomach clenched and I hugged her tighter. "Have a wonderful time, Bella. I'll see you tomorrow morning at the airport."
"Love you, Rose." We released each other and I walked over to my fiancé. Shit, I'm getting MARRIED! He had slipped on his suit coat and held out his hand to me. I twined my fingers with his. We rode down the elevator to the lobby. A black limo was outside with a placard for Cullen. I arched a brow. "A limo?"
"I hate the cabbies. So, I splurged. Sue me," Edward shrugged. He helped me into the limousine. He spoke briefly to driver before heading into the limo himself. Edward reached a bottle of champagne and popped the cork. I held two champagne flutes. He filled them. "To our future, love. The future Mrs. Cullen. My wife."
"To our future. My husband," I grinned as I clinked my glass with his. We sipped the bubbling drink and I giggled.
"What?"
"It tickles my nose," I said with a grin. Edward leaned forward and kissed the tip of my nose. His hand moved to my cheek, gently cupping my face. I leaned into his touch and sighed. I placed my hand on top of his while my eyes fluttered shut. I felt a soft caress on my lips. Edward kissed me and I could feel his smile. I opened my eyes, gazing into his honey golden orbs. They were filled with such tenderness, love, desire, happiness, and joy. "I love you, Edward. Thank you for being here. For this," I said as I motioned to the car. "And for this," I murmured as I looked down at my engagement ring. "Never in a million years did I expect this."
"We aim to please," Edward said as he took another sip of his champagne. He sat back in the black leather seats, lacing his free hand with mine. We rode to restaurant and headed inside. Once there, the host ushered us to secluded area of the swank Italian eatery. The waitress delivered a bottle of wine and some appetizers that we had ordered. "Bella, I'm so happy."
"Me too, angel," I smiled. "Though, I do have a question. When we get married, will I be a Masen or a Cullen?"
"I've been thinking about that, too. I've been a Cullen for all of my life," Edward sighed. "Though my name is tainted. I don't want to be associated with those two asshats. I've always had more 'Masen' qualities than 'Cullen.'"
"Can I make a suggestion?" I asked. Edward nodded as he sipped his red wine. "While you don't want to be associated with the name 'Cullen,' why don't you work to change the image of your name. Instead of being associated with 'asshats,' make Cullen be a name associate with goodness. You donate to charities. Why don't you create a foundation using your name? Is there something that you feel strongly about?"
"I feel very strongly about children who are bullied," Edward said coldly. "I remember when I was a kid. I felt like no one was my advocate besides my sister and my mom."
"Why not create a foundation, a safe haven for children who are bullied? Or just children in general? Some place safe for them to go," I suggested. "You have the money, the prestige, the heart and the means. Cullen Children's Foundation."
Edward was staring at me. The hamster in his head was working. Overtime. He snagged our waitress. "Excuse me, do you have some paper and a pen?"
"Of course, Mr. Cullen. Here you go," our waitress said as she handed him a small pad of paper and a retractable pen. Edward put the pen in his mouth, thinking about what I said.
"Edward?"
"You're brilliant, Bella," Edward said. He began writing down things on the sheet of paper. The pen was moving so quickly, I swear I saw smoke move across the pad. He was muttering quietly. "This could actually work. Bella...can you help me with this?"
"I'd be honored. Since, I'm going to be a Cullen, too," I smiled.
"Yes, you are. Bella Cullen has a certain ring to it," Edward said with a radiant grin. "Okay, I can plan this later. Give me something to do besides my job and work on the house." He slipped the pad of paper into his suit pocket and put the pen on the table. He reached across the table and took my hands. "You are the most beautiful, intelligent, generous, wonderful woman I know, Bella. I am honored that you are in my life. Willing to share your life with me as my best friend, my lover, my fiancée, and my wife."
"And to think, you never had any experience with this before me. You could have fooled me," I snickered.
"I'm a quick study, gorgeous," he smiled as he picked my left hand, kissing my engagement ring. "Do you like your ring?"
I couldn't answer the question as our food was delivered. The waitress offered us some more wine and we tucked into our meal.
"Well? Do you like your ring, love?" Edward asked as he cut into his veal piccata.
"It's absolutely gorgeous, Edward," I blushed, looking at my ring. "I hope you didn't spend a lot of money on me."
"Not a dime," he winked. "It was my grandmother's ring."
"Your grandmother's ring? Shouldn't Alice get this?" I squeaked.
"No. It was left to me in her will. Emmett got Grandmother Cullen's ring. I got Nana Masen's," he smiled. "Grandmother Cullen's ring was not that pretty. This suits you better. Soft, delicate, unique."
"What's this stone?"
"Alexandrite," Edward answered. "My grandmother got engaged in June. Alexandrite is the birthstone for June. They got married two years after they were engaged to be married, on their anniversary."
"What were your grandparent's names?"
"Edward and Elizabeth Masen," Edward replied. "They had two daughters. Esme, my mother and Carmen, my aunt. She's married to Eleazar. Carlisle and Eleazar started their firm together and were very close."
"And Tanya is Carmen and Eleazar's daughter?" I asked, trying to figure out the complexities of his family.
"They have three daughters: Irina, Kate and Tanya. Irina left the family as soon as she graduated high school. She was always a black sheep. More so than me. Besides, her family didn't approve of her lifestyle. She's a lesbian and would never marry an appropriate suitor. Obviously, since she likes women. Kate is a part of the firm. Emmett was the 'Golden Boy.' Kate is the Ice Queen. And Tanya…well, she's just special."
"Short bus special?" I snickered.
"Yes. However, Aunt Carmen and Uncle Eleazar never tried to help Tanya. They merely enabled her. They refused to get her help in school. She barely graduated high school. It was something about their pride, having a child with special needs. They didn't want to acknowledge it. Instead, Tanya fell further and further behind in school. I think she reads at a third or fourth grade level. And math? She's a hot mess," Edward said sadly. "Esme tried to convince Aunt Carmen to get Tanya help, but she abjectly refused. Then she had the gall to call me autistic because of my weird behaviors. Whatever. I'm not autistic, just shy and socially awkward."
"You're not that awkward now," I said quietly.
"No. I'm not I've grown a lot, though. You can't hide behind your mother's apron strings all your life. I had to grow up. First when I went to college and moved in with Jasper. He can be crass and honestly pretty disgusting, but he really got me out of my shell. Then a second time when I moved in with Alice. But I've grown the most since being with you."
"What did Jasper do?"
"Not a whole lot our freshman year. Or rather, his sophomore year. He's a year older than me. Once we moved into an apartment, he hosted parties. Jasper got me drunk for the first time. Got me to try smoking. Pot. Yeah, those two didn't stick. I coughed up my left lung with both of 'em."
"You smoked pot?" I squeaked.
"One hit. I hated it. I was so fucking paranoid," Edward laughed. "And I ate three large pizzas afterward. I'm not that big of a guy so that was quite an accomplishment." He gave me a pained smile and patted his belly. "I felt like I had a leprechaun in my stomach when I woke up the next morning."
"Very descriptive, Cullen," I teased.
"What about you? Did you have a rebellious phase?" Edward teased as he pushed his plate away, leaning on his elbows.
"Not really. In college I was focused on school. I graduated with honors, receiving the English Department top honor in my graduating class. Did I go to parties? Yeah. However, I never wanted to get drunk or out of control. I dated some in college. But, nothing serious. It was actually in college is where I met the mongoloid," I shrugged.
"He actually got in to a college?" Edward scoffed.
"No. He helped me with my car at the campus bookstore. He's not the sharpest tool in the shed," I said, quirking a brow. "Let's just say that I definitely traded up. A mechanic versus a CEO. Who knows how to shower and treats me right."
"Was the mongrel icky?" Edward asked.
"He would go several days without bathing, Edward. It was the most nasty thing ever. The only time he put on his 'Axe' body spray was when he thought he was going to get into my pants."
"Which was NEVER," Edward said with a snort. "Days at a time? Makes me want to shower." Edward gave an adorable little shudder and he wrinkled his nose. "I'm so glad that my hygienic habits meet with your approval, Bella."
"Edward, you always smell good. I love your scent. Your body wash, cologne and something spicy that's just you," I said, crossing my legs trying to quell the dampness in my panties.
"Spicy?"
"Not bad spicy, dork," I snickered as I pushed away my chicken.
"Geek. You're with a geek," Edward admonished.
"Fine, Geek. I can't describe it, Edward. It's just you. I've also tasted it," I said with a seductive grin. I dropped my gaze to Edward's crotch, or rather where his crotch would be if the table was not in the way. He gulped and reached for his glass of wine. He missed and sent the glass tumbling to the ground.
"Shit!" Edward grumbled. The waitress came and told Edward that it happens all the time. He smiled timidly and I saw a bright crimson blush cover his pale features. Once the broken wine glass was cleaned up and another glass was delivered, Edward looked at me with shock. "Are you saying that…?"
"I plead the fifth," I giggled as I finished my wine. "Do you want dessert?"
"Hmmm, I don't think you're on the menu," Edward said dryly. "You are so sweet."
"Awww, Edward," I said as I laid my hand over my heart. "That was ridiculously cheesy."
"I know," Edward smirked. "Actually, we do have to go. The show starts at eight and it's 7:30 now." Edward motioned for the waitress, who brought the check. Edward slid his credit card into the folder with a friendly grin. She returned with the folder. Edward added a tip and signed the slip inside. "Come on, Mrs. Cullen."
"I'm still Dwyer," I chastised.
"But you will be a Cullen soon," Edward said with a sweet kiss to my lips as I stood up. He led me out to the limo and we drove to theater. Edward's arm was around my shoulder, idly tracing patterns on my bare shoulder. He leaned his head against me, humming quietly.
"Edward?"
"Yes, love?"
"When do you want to get married?" I asked, snuggling closer to his side.
"Yesterday," he answered.
"We can't go back in time, my dear," I said dryly.
"I don't care when we get married, Bella. As long as I'm with you and you're my wife, I'll be happy," he answered honestly. "When do you want get married?"
"Want to fly to Vegas?"
"Let me get my phone," Edward quipped. "Seriously, when?"
"I've always envisioned a Christmas wedding," I murmured. "Not on Christmas day or anything, but around that time."
"It would make remembering our anniversary easy," Edward snickered. "We could get married in Maui?"
"Planning a wedding, moving, starting a job in a span of a month? I'd have a heart attack," I said, looking him in the eyes.
"I'm certain that Esme and Alice can help," Edward offered.
"Well, that's another thing. I don't want to get married in Chicago. I was hoping we could do it in Phoenix. That's where we met and fell in love," I said, biting my lip. "Perhaps the botanic gardens?"
Edward looked down at me. I tried to calm my heart as he stared at me intently. His face broke and my favorite smile spread over his perfect features. "I love it. Then I guess the Maui option is out."
"Phew!" I said as I relaxed against him. "How about Christmas Eve? Botanic Gardens? It'll be chilly, but definitely warmer than Chicago."
"How chilly is 'chilly?'"
"Fifties," I answered.
"That's tropical compared to Chicago," Edward laughed.
"Mr. Cullen, we're here," the driver said.
"Thank you," Edward replied. The car stopped and Edward helped me out of the limo. He exchanged phone numbers with the driver and he sped off. Edward led us to will call to pick up our tickets. We went inside and sat down in our awesome seats. "You'll be Mrs. Cullen on Christmas Eve. I can't wait." He kissed me as the lights went down and the curtain rose. Edward twined his fingers with mine and we watched the musical. During the intermission, Edward and I spoke with the couple next to us. They were celebrating their fifteenth wedding anniversary. When we told them that we just got engaged today, the woman asked why we were at a musical and not celebrating. Edward and I blushed. Her husband chastised her. She apologized and settled back into her seat, blushing furiously herself.
The second half of the musical went by quickly. Once the curtain fell, we said goodbye to the couple next to us. They wished their congratulations. The wife encouraged us to celebrate once we got home. Cue blush… again…
While I wanted to make love to Edward, I just wanted to cuddle in his arms. Sure I was incredibly horny and turned on, but I just missed sleeping in against his warm body. In his safe and protective embrace. In his strong arms. Our relationship was sexual but it didn't revolve around it. I loved that Edward and I could have intelligent conversations. I loved that he could make me laugh. I loved that he could challenge me intellectually. I loved his compassion. I loved everything about him. Once we got into the limo, I pulled his gorgeous face to mine, peppering his mouth and face with fervent kisses. Edward laughed at my exuberance. "I. Love. You. Edward. Anthony. Masen. Cullen," I said, punctuating each word with a searing kiss.
"What was that for?" he snorted. "Not that I don't appreciate it."
"I'm just so happy. You're here. We're engaged. You're here. We love each other. You're here. We're sleeping together. You're here…"
"I get it, Bella," Edward guffawed. "You're happy that I'm here. Trust me, so am I. Sleeping has been non-existent and the bed has been entirely too big for me."
"Edward, you're 6'2". You need a king-sized bed," I snickered.
"Only the length. I really don't move. But you know that," Edward said as he caressed my cheek.
"The fact that you can sleep with me draped over your body is shocking," I said.
"I rather like it. A Bella blanket," Edward said as he kissed my forehead. "I'm looking forward to that tonight."
"Me, too, Edward," I murmured. "I can't wait to be in your arms."
"You're in my arms now, love," Edward said as he squeezed me closer to his hard body.
"Feeling your skin, Edward."
"Oh. Well, as soon as we get back to the hotel, we'll have to remedy that," Edward said lowly, a growl in his silken voice. He kissed me hungrily. Our mouths moving together in perfect harmony. Edward's velvety tongue traced my lip and begged for entrance. I readily gave it to him. His tongue swept in my mouth, sliding between my lips. He tasted so good. I could taste the mint of his gum that he had popped in during the intermission and the spice that was inherently Edward. I gently sucked on his tongue as he kissed me. A soft moan resonated through his body. It moved through me like wildfire. I clutched my hands in his bronze hair, trying to get him closer to me. The need for oxygen became paramount as he pulled away. I was breathing heavily as he pressed open mouthed kisses to my neck and ears, flicking the lobes with his tongue. "God I missed kissing you, Bella. You have the best lips. Ever," he murmured against my skin. He nibbled along my jaw, moving closer to my swollen mouth. With an angel's breath, he brushed his lips against mine in the sweetest of kisses. "I love you, Isabella. Ti amo," he murmured.
"I so need to learn Italian," I blushed. Edward chuckled and hugged me against his body. I buried my nose against the crook of his neck. "You're really here."
"And you said yes," he whispered.
"Mr. Cullen, we're at the hotel," the driver said politely.
"Thank you," Edward said as he reluctantly moved away from me. He reached into his wallet and pulled a couple hundred dollar bills. He folded them neatly and got out of the limo, assisting me as he did. He shook hands with the driver, palming him the tip with a smile. Edward turned to me and ushered me into the hotel. We rode up the elevator to his suite. Figures he got the most expensive suite in the hotel. Once inside, there was another bottle of champagne, chocolate covered strawberries and a note. He picked it up. "It's from Rose." He handed me the note.
To my best friend and her wonderful fiancé:
Please accept this bottle of Cristal and strawberries in congratulations of your upcoming wedding. I love you both. So much. Bella, I've never seen you this happy. I'm so glad that you and Edward found each other.
Edward, you are truly Bella's soul mate. You're so loving and gentle. Protective and strong. Everything that Bella needs in a man. A friend. A lover. A husband.
Okay, enough mushy shit. Fuck like bunnies and make lots of babies. Oh and Edward, find me a man like you. Or develop cloning technology so I can get a clone of you. Because you fucking rock!
Love,
Rose (The Proposal Fairy – I'm still waiting for my wings and tiara, Edward)
"Only Rosalie," I sighed.
"Though, we don't 'fuck,'" Edward clarified.
"We so fucked on the elevator in your condo," I said, giving Edward a look.
"It was a loving fuck," Edward retorted.
"Dude, you turned into a caveman. Fucking me in an elevator. Tearing off my panties. I mean, seriously," I laughed.
"Fine, we fucked," he said dejectedly.
"Angel, not every time we make love is going to be slow and reverent. The one thing I learned from Rosalie is that we need to keep things interesting. If not, then our sex life will be boring," I said. "Though you are not allowed to sit on any edges of anything while I'm giving you head. No more concussions for you."
"Yes ma'am," Edward said with a salute. "Let's get onto the celebration…fucking like bunnies?"
xx ANSOL xx
When we woke up, Edward and I were tangled together like a web. We were a mess of arms, legs and sheets. It felt so nice. Edward's smooth skin, his strong arms, warm embrace, soft breathing and everything about him. I didn't want to leave this room. I wanted to stay here with him forever. However, Edward's cell phone had other ideas. It went off early and reminded us that we both had planes to catch. He had a plane to catch to Chicago. I had a plane to catch to Phoenix. But after two weeks of packing, I would be in Chicago. Permanently. In the home we bought in Glenview.
The limo ride to the airport was very somber. I was sitting on Edward's lap, idly playing with the hair at the nape of his neck. He was kissing any skin that he could reach while we drove. Rose was watching us, looking like she was going to puke from our nauseating displays of affection.
"Okay, I thought getting you two together and ENGAGED would help with the cavity inducing sweetness. It's only made it worse. The two of you are making me green," Rose said dryly. "Didn't you two get enough of each other last night?"
"No," Edward and I answered.
"Fuck my life. Am I going to have to deal with zombie Bella for the next two weeks?" Rose asked, arching her brow.
"Probably," I replied.
"Well, at least there's an end in sight. Two weeks and then you're with this one forever," Rose smiled.
"I can't wait," Edward murmured as he kissed my lips.
"Did you decide when you're making my Bellini an honest woman?" Rose asked as she nudged Edward's knee.
"Christmas Eve. In Phoenix," Edward replied.
"Why Phoenix?"
"It's where we met and fell in love, Rose," I answered. "Speaking of which, I have a question for you."
"Shoot."
"Will you be my maid of honor?" I asked. "You're my best friend and I can't imagine getting married without you."
"I'd be honored, Bella," Rose smiled. "Who's going to be your best man? If you say Emmett, I will seriously question your sanity, SGB."
"So would I," Edward laughed. "It'll probably be Jasper. He's my best friend, business partner and 'brother from another mother.'"
"Brother from another mother. That's too funny."
"Well, Rose, you're my sister from another mister," I snorted.
"And you two are a match made in cheestastic heaven," Rose sighed. "As long as you're happy."
"We're happy," Edward said with a crooked smirk. "Happiest I've EVER been."
"Hmmm, me too," I said, kissing his soft, perfect mouth.
"Gag. Me," Rose grumbled. I threw her a look and settled back into Edward's lap. He held me tightly and ran his lips along the column of my neck, right above my pulse point. The exact spot that he knew drove me nuts. He did that the entire car ride to the airport.
Sneaky, smarmy bastard.
But I love him.
And I'm going to marry him.
In less than six months.
I'll be Mrs. Edward Cullen.
Yay!
Is it December yet?
Really? Is it December?
We arrived at La Guardia and checked into our respective flights. Going through security was a breeze and we headed to our gates. Edward's flight left after mine and Rosalie's. He stayed with us until our flight took off. It was again, very somber. And crowded. There were no seats at the gate. Edward and I sat on the floor, with me leaning against his chest while Rose sat on her carryon. Edward played with my hair while I read a manuscript. It tickled. And I couldn't focus. So I gave him a chapter. He grumbled and read it, correcting as he went.
Eventually our flight was called. Rose hopped up and went to board, giving Edward and I some privacy. He got up and held his hand out for me. I stood up, not looking into his amber eyes. I, instead, looked at our twined fingers, my ring glittering in the florescent light of the airport. With his other hand, Edward pushed my chin up to stare into his golden depths. "Two weeks, Bella. And then, no more separations. We'll be together. Forever," he said quietly but forcefully.
"Two weeks. We can do this," I replied. "But it still sucks that we have to be apart."
"I know, gorgeous. However, I'll be in Phoenix to help with the final details. Then you get to deal with my crazy ass driving across the United States," he joked. He leaned down and kissed my lips, framing my face with his strong hands. "Two weeks. Actually, less than two weeks. We'll be together in twelve days. I love you, Bella. Ti amo."
"Ti amo, Edward," I murmured, clutching at his shoulders. "I'll call you as soon as I land."
"I look forward to it. I'll miss you but this is the home stretch, gorgeous. The end is in sight," Edward reassured me, running his long fingers through my hair.
"This is the final boarding call for Flight 1942, nonstop service to Phoenix," piped the intercom.
"You need to go, love. Twelve days," Edward said, looking at me. There was sadness in his honey golden eyes, but determination, too. We can do this.
"Twelve days. I love you and I'll miss you, Edward."
"I love you more, Mrs. Cullen," he smirked.
"I'm still Dwyer. And who knows, maybe I want to hyphenate," I quipped as I kissed him one last time. "I love you." I pulled away and put my carryon on my shoulder. I gave him a weak wave and went to board the plane. I found my seat next to Rosalie. She hugged me as I fell apart, missing my fiancé.
I don't remember the flight, which was a good thing. I still hate flying. With a passion. Once we landed, I gathered my bags and got into the limo provided to us by Twilight Publishing. I called Edward and left a message. His phone was still off. The limo dropped me off at my mom's house. She was on the road with Phil. So, I got my car from their garage and drove to my apartment. I parked and went up to my two bedroom apartment, by way of picking up my mail. Not a lot there. Most of it was sent to the hotels we were staying at. I had it forwarded there while I was on my trip.
I unpacked my bag and sorted out my laundry. I grimaced at the prospect of washing all of these clothes. Schmeh. I was transferring a load from the washer to the dryer when my cell phone rang. It was Edward. "Hello?"
"I see you got home safe and sound," Edward said. "How was your flight?"
"I don't remember. I was spacing out the entire time," I said quietly. "I miss you."
"Twelve days, love."
"I know."
We spoke for a little while before he had to go. Esme and Marcus invited Alice, Jasper and Edward over for some dinner. I'm assuming that Alex and Demetri were invited as well. I told him to send my love to his family. Edward readily agreed to do so. We hung up and I finished my task of washing my clothes. I also got some food so I wouldn't starve. After I finished my chores, I made myself some dinner and went to bed early. Dreaming of Edward. My fiancé.
xx ANSOL xx
"Rose, I hate fucking moving. I haven't made ANY progress," I moaned from office.
"Bella, your kitchen is packed up. The second bathroom is packed and the living room is essentially done. Once the movers come, you just need to tell 'em what to do. Besides, Edward is going to help when he comes in. He's got muscles. When is he coming?"
"Tomorrow," I murmured. "His flight gets in early and I'm picking him up."
"You know I'm going to miss you, Bellini," Rose said quietly. "I'm hoping to be Chicago by the first of year, but it won't be the same without you. And you're still my editor. No matter where you move to. I don't trust anybody else."
"I will gladly edit your books, Rosalie," I smiled. "How are things with Royce?"
"He wasn't surprised when I asked for a divorce," Rose shrugged. "He was surprised when I told him that I was moving to Chicago. However, he's amenable to all of my suggestions. He's keeping the house. It's in his name anyway. We never combined our finances. Everything was separate. It was like we knew that it wasn't going to be forever."
"How long were you married?"
"Seven years. Our attorneys told us that it could be finalized by the end of the year. I can legally be Rosalie Hale again," Rose winked. "Have you talked to your Mom?"
"I'm going over there for dinner tonight. She's so sad that I'm moving. She's going through separation anxiety," I snickered. "But it's time for me to move away. I have my own life. With a man whom I love tremendously."
"She'll get over it, Bellini," Rose smiled. "So, are you good?"
"Yeah, I think so. I'm going to shower and then head to my mom's house," I said. "Thanks for your help!"
"No problem, Bella. I'll be here bright and early on September 1st to help you with your move," Rose said with a hug. "And don't forget your appointment with your gynecologist tomorrow afternoon. Shot time!"
"Ugh, don't remind me. I'm so crampy and cranky right now. No nookie for Edward when he comes tomorrow," I grumbled. "Maybe I'll give him head."
"That's my girl," Rose said with a wink. "Say hi to Mama Dwyer for me and I'll see you later." Rose gave me a hug and darted out of my apartment. I finished packing my box of books and headed into the bathroom to shower before dinner with my mom. I dressed in a casual khaki skirt and burgundy top. I slipped on a pair of funky ballet flats and went into my car to drive to my mom's home. I parked on the driveway and went inside.
"Mamacita! I'm here," I called.
"In the kitchen! I'm making your favorite dessert!" Renee called. "Deep fried bananas."
I think I threw up in my mouth a little bit.
"Mom, that's YOUR favorite dessert. And please tell me you didn't use your tartar sauce," I groaned.
"No. I have chocolate sauce," Renee said with an eye roll. She stepped away from the fryer and hugged me. "You look lovely, Bella. How's packing?"
"I hate it. I hate moving," I groaned.
"You can always stay," Renee said with a hopeful grin.
"No, Mom. I have a new job and a new life waiting for me in Chicago," I said forcefully. "Be grateful we're having the wedding here in Phoenix."
"That's what's on tap for dinner conversation, Bellini," Renee said with a wide grin. "We need to talk about who we're inviting, the colors, theme, dress, bridesmaids, invitations, flowers…"
"I get it, Renee," I snickered. "What's for dinner?"
"Phil is grilling some ribs and we're having corn and mashed potatoes. Then the bananas for dessert." I blanched and nodded. Renee set the table and I checked on Phil. He gave me a kiss on the cheek, turning back to the grill. Dinner was a quiet affair. Renee inundated me with a ton of brochures about wedding halls, churches, and other wedding stuff. I arched a brow and explained what I wanted. She pouted but acquiesced. When I told her my vision, she actually grew to enjoy it and she got excited.
After dinner, I helped my mom with the dishes. She was washing and I was drying. "Mom?"
"Yes, sweetie?'
"Did Edward ask if he could marry me?" I questioned.
"Yes. He did. He flew out about a month ago, maybe a little longer. He stayed with us and asked for your hand in marriage. It was so romantic," Renee gushed. "I've never met a more respectful and kind young man. He truly loves you. With all of his heart."
"What did he say? What happened?" I asked.
"He didn't tell you?"
"Edward just smiles whenever I mention it," I blushed.
"Well, he flew out on a Thursday. Phil picked him up from the airport. We went out to dinner and I could tell that Edward was very nervous. Oh, he's more gorgeous in person than he is in pictures. His eyes are so beautiful. A warm honey golden brown. So luscious."
"Mom, focus."
"Right, sorry. Anyhow, we went out to dinner. Things are going smoothly. I ask what he does and we carry on polite conversation throughout dinner. He's very intelligent and well spoken. So much nice than that Jacob guy. He was an idiot," Renee shuddered.
"Yes, we know this. Jake was a stinky moron," I said. "Keep going, Renee."
"I'm your mother, Isabella Marie. Not 'Renee.'"
"Sorry, Mom."
"Okay, so while we're drinking coffee, Edward says that he has something important to ask Phil and I," Renee smiled. "I gave him an encouraging pat on the arm and asked him to continue. Edward said that he loved you with all his heart and soul. He further went on to say that you were most important person in his life and he couldn't imagine living in a world without you. I was sniffling at that point. Phil just held my hand as we waited for Edward to finish what he was saying. Edward chugged some water and looked at me. This is what he said…a direct quote: 'Your daughter is my reason for breathing, laughing, crying, loving…everything. I want to be with her for the rest of my life. So, I'm asking for your daughter's hand in marriage. I want to be her husband, her best friend, her protector, her rock. Can I ask Bella to marry me with your blessing?'"
"Obviously you said yes," I snickered.
"I squealed first, bouncing on my chair like an idiot," Renee said with a sardonic grin. "But, once I calmed down, I gave my enthusiastic support of your fiancé. He visibly calmed down after that. I mean, all of the tension left his body and he collapsed against the chair. Phil bought him a shot. He chugged it and gave us a wide smile. I couldn't deny him his love, Bella. The fact that he flew out to ask us, face to face, scored huge points with both Phil and I."
We worked in silence for awhile. The dishes were done and I went to make some coffee. We took our coffee and sat outside, chatting quietly about my impending move. Around nine, Phil went upstairs to go to bed. He was leaving for a slew of away games. "Bellini?"
"Yeah?"
"Why did you want to know about your birth father?" Renee asked quietly, looking at me apprehensively.
"Charlie is one of the detectives assigned to a case involving Edward's brother," I answered. "Alice and Edward noticed the resemblance between the detective and I."
"What are you going to do with your relationship with Charlie?" Renee asked me skeptically.
"We'll see. The ball is in my court. I asked for time to process," I shrugged. "He gave me his number. I don't know what I'm going to do. A lot has happened since we've spoken last."
"Yeah, you're engaged," Renee quipped.
"And I need to pick up my fiancé at the airport uber early tomorrow. So, I'm going to head out. I love you, Mom. I know it sucks that I'm moving, but we'll be fine," I smiled.
"I know. I can see the sadness in your eyes when Edward is gone. I don't want my baby girl to be sad," Renee said. I stood up and fell into a warm embrace from my mom. "I'm so proud of you, Isabella. You are such a wonderful young woman and I couldn't ask for a better daughter. I love you." Renee sniffled. I all out sobbed. Damn hormones. I hate getting my period. BLECH! "I'll see you before you leave, baby girl."
"I know," I said as I wiped my snotty nose. I hugged her again and walked out to my car. I waved as I drove away. I pulled into my apartment parking lot and went up to my home. Well, my home for the next three days. The movers were coming the day before my lease was up to get my stuff. I was going to stay with Edward in a hotel for the last night in Phoenix. The following day we were going to clean my apartment and start our several day journey to Chicago.
I set my alarm and crawled into bed, falling into a fitful sleep. I couldn't get comfortable. At all. The bed was too empty. I was missing the six foot tall geek who loves me more than his own life. I love him more than my own life. I'd do anything for him. I can't wait until we begin our lives together. I finally buckled and got up to take some Nyquil. I also grabbed Rufus and curled around him. Finally falling asleep.
I woke up the next morning to my phone ringing. Or rather, the alarm on my phone ringing. I rolled out of bed and turned it off. I padded to the bathroom, taking a cursory shower before heading to my gynecologist to get my shot. I put on some makeup and drove to doctor's office. I was called in and I got injected with my birth control. I gave the nurse a grimace and left. I then drove to the airport, hanging out in the cell phone lot until I got the call from Edward. I was only in the lot for about fifteen minutes when I got the call from my fiancé that he was in Phoenix. He told me what airline and what vestibule and I took off. I pulled up to the curb and saw my bronze haired geeky god, leaning against a pillar. I parked the car and ran out of the car. "Edward!"
He looked up and gave me a lazy smile. I sprinted up to him, hopping into his arms. I covered his face with kisses as he held onto me. "I'm so happy you're here, angel."
"We survived the twelve days, gorgeous," he said as he pulled up his sunglasses. "You are even more beautiful than I remembered." He kissed me deeply until one of the cops informed me that I couldn't park my car there. Edward put me down and loaded up his suitcase in my trunk. I eased into the driver's seat and drove back to my apartment. Our hands were linked over the console. Edward's thumb was rubbing across my knuckles. "So, I started the preliminary paperwork for the Cullen Children's Foundation. I even found a warehouse that could be used a home base," Edward said excitedly.
"That's awesome, Edward," I said. "When do you think you can open it?"
"With what Jenks told me and with the preliminaries done, hopefully we can have our 'grand opening' on Halloween," Edward said. "It's going to be similar to 'Big Brothers/Big Sisters' but with classes on how to deal with bullying and psychologists, social workers and other trained adults on staff. We're also going to have art and music therapy. Intramurals, computer games. Pretty much anything a kid could want, it'll be there."
"How did you staff it?"
"Marcus, Demetri and Alex have a lot of connections. They have been a huge asset," Edward said wistfully. "I'm financially backing most of the foundation, but Marcus is donating a good chunk of change. So is Demetri. Alex is donating his time. Did you know that Alex has a degree in psychology? He's a social worker and is willing to be on the staff."
"Wow," I murmured. "That really came together quickly."
"It did. And it was because of you, gorgeous," Edward said as he ran his finger down my cheek.
"I just suggested it. You did all of the work," I said, giving Edward a quick glance. I pulled into the parking lot of my apartment building. Edward grabbed his suitcase and kissed me as we went upstairs. Our hands were linked and I had my keys out. We were nearly at my door when a voice filled the hallway.
"Hello, Bella…"
A/N: Okay, I'm too wordy. Verbose. I really need to stop writing such long chapters. And I really need to stop giving you cliffies. *heh heh* Anyhow, I hope you liked it. If you do…please leave a review. If you don't and would like to offer a constructive criticism, leave a review. If you want to see teasers and sneak previews, check out my tumblr. The link is in my profile. I'd like to new friends there…Anyhow, see you on the flip side!