So, here we are … starting a new story. I'm dreaming that it's summer time and the favorite thing about summer time, besides the longer days and warmer weather is the return of my favorite show, So You Think You Can Dance? I love it … the beauty, artistry and athleticism is amazing. Plus, the music they play? Damn … makes me happy.
Okay, we'll have ONE more real chapter. I was thinking that this was going to be the final chapter, but no. One more chapter. We'll find out about Renee and Alice, have Bella and Edward move to Los Angeles and prepare for their dance. After that, then we'll have our epilogue.
Chapter Twenty-Six: Dreams Come True
EPOV
Packing up my belongings and moving across the country freaked the shit out of me. My new job didn't begin until mid-April, but I wanted to make sure that Bella and I were settled in our new home in the suburbs of Los Angeles. I decided to sublet my condo to Peter. He was taking a part in Hamilton, thanks to Lauren's help. He'd live in my condo until his contract was up in the following year.
"Edward, I don't think we'll need this mountain of winter weather gear," Bella laughed in our closet. "I looked at the weather and it's in the mid-seventies."
"We can leave it here. Peter said he was just going to stay in one of the guest rooms. He seemed squicked out at sleeping in our porn palace," I said, poking my head in the closet. Bella was blushing, giving me a glower. "What? You have to admit, we've been going at it like bunnies since Christmas."
"That's because you're horny," she quipped. "And to be honest, so am I." She winked at me, folding more of my t-shirts and placed them into an open suitcase next to her. "When will the moving truck get here?"
"They said early tomorrow morning," I explained. "We need to get a move on."
"Edward, we're only moving our clothes and some personal items," she said.
"And my car," I argued. "If there is one ding on that baby, I'll be pissed."
"I swear, you love that car more than me," she laughed, closing the bag and standing up stiffly. She was getting stronger and was starting to take some beginning classes at my mom's studio. Once we arrived at Los Angeles, Carmen was going to take over her training, working with some local dance studios.
"I love you more than anything in my world, pretty girl," I said, taking her into my arms. "Do you need some ice?"
"I'm fine. I was just sitting too long," she said, kissing my chin. "I'm going to the gym with Jake in a bit. You have an office to pack up, mister."
"What are you doing with Jake?" I asked as she changed into a pair of yoga pants and a tight tank top. "You better not be running. Helga hasn't given you approval to run yet."
"I'm not running," she said, twisting her hair into a messy bun. "Jogging, yes. Running, no. I'm also doing some strength training on my legs. Jake is gentle with me. I rather work with him than Helga. Ugh, I won't miss her."
"Helga did give us some recommendations to use in Los Angeles. She's got a sister, Hildy," I teased.
"No. Thank. You," Bella sang, putting on her sneakers and a knee brace around her left leg. "Alistair said he was going to have work with one of the physical therapists from the show. She's new. Her name is McKenna and specializes in working with dancers with significant injuries. I have no doubt that she'll whip me back into shape." Her phone rang and she picked it up. "Jake? I'm on my way down. Just reminding Edward to pack up the office." She kissed me and tugged on her winter coat. "See you in a bit, Jake." Tossing her phone into a pocket. "I'll be back in a couple of hours. The shredder has been emptied and the bubble wrap is in the dining room. Love you, baby."
"Love you more, Bella," I said, kissing her lips and watching as she breezed out of the condo. It was mid-January and our relationship had bounced back after we'd spent a great deal of time talking after we'd made love on Christmas Eve. We also made decisions about the condo and flew out to the west coast to put down an offer on a Spanish style home. We also met with the district attorney to discuss the case against Renee and Alice. The trial would begin shortly after we moved into our home.
I worked in the office, throwing out a ton of papers and packing up pictures, mementos and technology. As I put the boxes into the hallway, Mom came in. "Hello?!" she sang.
"Mom, I'm right behind the door," I chuckled, closing the door after she walked in.
"Sorry, sweetie," she said, kissing my cheek. "How's the packing?"
"Good. All of this is going," I said, gesturing to the pile of about twenty-five boxes and rubber tubs in the foyer. "Plus my car and the stuff from Bella's apartment that's in storage."
"I can't believe that you're moving to Los Angeles," Mom frowned. "I'm proud of your accomplishments, but you're moving so far away."
"You said you're okay with that," I argued.
"I am. I'm just going to miss you, Edward. You and Bella," Mom said, hugging me. "Where is she?"
"Working out with Jake. Kind of a last hoorah before we take off the day after tomorrow," I said. "Do you want to talk to her?"
"Well, I'd love to invite you both for dinner tonight, if you're not too busy," Mom said, walking around the condo. Her brows were furrowed and I could tell she was upset that I was leaving. "You're leaving your furniture?"
"Peter is going to need furniture. Bella and I are using the opportunity to start fresh," I explained, pulling out some water bottles, giving one to my mom. "We ordered a few things while we were out there when we put the offer down on the house."
Mom nodded, sipping the water. "That would make sense. I'm glad that you and Bella are taking this step together. Yes, I'll miss you, but I get why you're taking this step. I am curious as to when you're going to make an honest woman of Bella."
"Ma," I growled. "Don't start. To be perfectly honest, we're enjoying being together as a couple. Am I going to propose? Yes, but not right now. I have a plan. Let me see it through."
"Is this plan happening soon?" Mom chuckled.
"That's for me to know and for you to not," I sang. "Now, help with the kitchen. Bubble wrap my plates, woman!"
"I don't have help you," she snorted.
"You don't have to, but because I'm your favorite son, you will help me," I argued.
"You're my only son," she laughed. "But, I will help you since in three days you'll be living in California." We worked together until Bella came back with Jake. We ate a late lunch and Bella accepted my mom's invitation to dinner, but for the following day. We'd be without dishes and most of our personal items after tomorrow morning. Jake and Mom left after lunch. Bella grimaced as she limped to the bathroom.
"What's up with that limp, Bella?" I asked.
"I worked too hard," she replied. "I'm fine. It's why we were late. Jake took me to Helga to get my calf massaged. She already yelled at me. I don't need you to do the same, Edward."
"I'm just worried, pretty girl," I said. "The dance I'm coming up for you will not be for the faint of heart."
"Bring it, Cullen," she purred, kissing me. "I will rise to the challenge. I promise you. Now, I'm going to wash off the sweat and Icy/Hot off my body. Then, we can work on our bathroom. Aren't you excited?"
"I'm bubbling with anticipation," I deadpanned.
xx SYTYCD xx
BPOV
"That goes into the kitchen," I said, pointing over my shoulder. I was working in the office, unpacking the books. This was my office. It was in the front of the house, with a window seat and a nook for my computer. Edward's office was on the second floor, in the loft overlooking the foyer. Edward wanted me to have some privacy since I used the office to journal my thoughts. I also began writing. Not a journal, but a novel or something. It was further helping me to work through my feelings about my injury and the abandonment from my incubator.
"Miss Swan, what about this?" asked one of the movers. I looked up and saw the frame that I had made for Edward as his Christmas present. "Which room?"
"Up in the loft," I replied, smiling brightly. "Be careful with it. It's very important to both Edward and me."
"Yes, Miss Swan," he nodded, clutching it a little tighter and walking up the stairs.
I turned back to the built-in bookshelves and finished filling them with my books. After I finished with the books, I set up my laptop and a set of Bluetooth speakers. I turned on iTunes and turned up the music as loud as it would go. I worked in the kitchen and carefully unwrapped the plates, placing them into the white cabinets. Edward strode in, his face bright. "Is your precious car okay?" I teased.
"Perfect. However, I forgot how expensive gas was out here," he chuckled, tossing the keys into a bowl in the center of the kitchen. "And speaking of cars, we need to get you one."
"Edward, I don't need a car," I said. "Public transit seems fine."
"Well, too bad, so sad. You're getting a car," he said, pulling out another set of keys. They were like the keys from the car he drove last summer. "Thank Alistair, pretty girl."
"What are you talking about?" I asked.
Alistair walked in, whistling low. "Nice digs," he said, nodding in approval. "And as much as you want to use public transportation, I think it would be best for you to have a car. The car that Edward used while he was working for us was still on loan from the dealership. I bought it for you, Bella."
"Alistair, you've already done so much for me," I whispered. "You paid for my medical expenses and covered the costs for the very, very expensive rehabilitation. I can't accept a car from you."
"Edward, let me talk to Bella for a few moments," Alistair said quietly. Edward nodded, kissing my temple and going upstairs. Alistair sat down at the center island. "Bella, I want you to listen to me. I know you think that I'm doing this out of a sense of honor or that I feel responsible, but it's not that."
"Then, why?" I asked.
"It's because I see how much potential you have and how much I care for you. Usually, in this line of work, you don't get too attached to contestants, but something about you made me want to do more for you. Hearing about your dad and all that you overcame to compete, it made me respect you. And then, when you were in the accident, I felt like I had my heart trampled on. I don't expect to replace your dad. From what you described, he seems irreplaceable, but I do love you as a father would love a daughter," Alistair said, taking my hand. "I want nothing but the best for you and let me do this for you."
"Thank you," I murmured. "I appreciate what you're saying, but you can't replace my dad." I wiped a tear and stared at him. "I don't think I could think of you in that way. Maybe as a cool uncle."
"I can live with that," Alistair chuckled, moving to hug me. "You're keeping the car, though."
"Okay, I'll keep the car," I said, rubbing his back. "And I do love you, too. As an uncle." He kissed my forehead, ruffling my hair. "How are auditions going?"
"Oh, fabulous. Sex auditioned again and he was dragged out by security," Alistair groaned. "He was bad this year, calling Carmen all these horrible names. But, the dancers are strong. Not as strong as you, though."
"They're stronger than me now," I shrugged.
"Not according to Jake and Edward. You're moving better and getting your body back," Alistair beamed. "McKenna said that she's excited to start working with you after the trial."
"I want to start now," I deadpanned. "Sitting in that courtroom, listening to arguments, rationalizing their behavior, it makes me sick."
"You're not going to be alone, Bella," Alistair said.
"You're not. We're all on your side," Edward said, walking back into the kitchen. "Did she accept the car?"
"She did. Only some minor manipulations," Alistair teased.
"Both of you suck," I said, rolling my eyes. "Now, this kitchen isn't going to unpack itself. Help, please? I still can't stand on my tip toes." Edward and Alistair helped me in the kitchen and the movers finished unloading our belongings. Edward paid them, giving them a large tip. With a wave, the moving truck left the neighborhood. Alistair left shortly after that and Edward and I worked on organizing the kitchen. "I can't wait to cook in this kitchen."
"What's this thing?" he asked, pointing to a spigot over the stove. "In case the stove gets on fire?"
"It's for pasta. Try carrying a full pot of water across the kitchen. That makes it infinitely easier," I smiled. "Knowing my luck, I'd slip and break something."
"Note to self, get rugs for the kitchen," Edward quipped. "Speaking of which, I'm starving. What do you want? Chinese or greasy burgers?"
"I'd like to go grocery shopping," I said.
"Bella," he whined. "I'm tired."
"Me, too. Let's order Chinese and go grocery shopping tomorrow," I said, smacking his ass.
Dinner arrived and we had a picnic on the kitchen counter. We shared beer, fried rice and crab Rangoon. When we were done, we went to bed, in our brand new, romantic bedroom. It was still pretty haphazard, but our bed was made and curtains were hung. The next morning, we went grocery shopping and filled our fridge with healthy foods. I met up with Carmen for a late afternoon margarita. "I'm so glad you could join me. Edward and Alistair are in some strategic planning thing for the next season and I didn't want to go to my empty mansion. How are things going? How's the house?"
"It's bigger than I anticipated, but I love it. Edward and I are having a great time decorating it," I beamed, tasting the sugar around my drink. "As for the other things, I'm getting better. I'm working on strengthening my legs since I'm not meeting with McKenna until after the trial is done."
"You'll like her. She's tough, but knows when to not push too hard," Carmen nodded. "Have you tried dancing?"
"Simple moves, but nothing like I've done before," I shrugged. "I've lost a great deal flexibility. The strength is coming back, but I can't move my body the way it used to. I used to be a pretzel. Now? Not so much."
"Sex has a lot of healing properties," Carmen quipped. "Edward can help you get your pretzel-like abilities back."
"It's not for lack of trying," I said, arching a brow. "We've tried some more unique sexual positions and I only scream out in pain. Edward freaks out and yeah, I'm wrapped in ice packs, out of commission for a few days."
"Next time, try warm packs. It'll loosen your muscles," Carmen said, nodding and waggling her brows. "Now, I'm curious if you are interested in choreographing for this season. I know that the prize you won from the competition didn't come to fruition due to your accident."
"I don't know if I can," I frowned. "I appreciate the offer, but right now, I need to focus on my body and being able to dance again."
"Think about it," she said, winking at me. "I think you're capable of creating something worthy of the Hot Tamale Train. What are you going to do other than physical therapy and get back into shape?"
"I've contacted University of Washington and asked what needs to be done for me to complete my degree. Rose made them aware of my medical condition and I met with the dean via Skype. I was going to complete my student teaching, but I have enough credits to have degree in English Literature. I've graduated, supposedly, and I'm going to work on finding other work, using my college education," I shrugged.
"Booooring!" Carmen sang. "You need to dance, girl. Oooh, or you could write my memoirs!"
"Yeah, no," I giggled. "Though, writing has been on my list of options. It's very cathartic." We spent the rest of our time together, talking about the audition tour and the upcoming season of the show. I missed it, but I wasn't as bereft as I thought I'd be. In fact, I was relieved that I wasn't going to be involved in the mayhem of the actual competition. I missed dancing, but the havoc it wreaked on my body, not so much.
After dinner, I drove back home and spent the weekend with Edward, unpacking our home. By the time Sunday rolled around, we were pretty much set up and posted a selfie on Instagram with us sitting by our pool. Yes, we had a pool. A small pool, but a pool nonetheless. Within moments, our first foray back into social media, we had over a million likes and comments wishing me well. The outpouring of love was humbling.
However, the next morning, I woke up with a sense of cold dread. The trial against Alice and Renee was beginning and opening arguments were going start. Edward and I were called to testify, but on the third day of the trial. We were not allowed in the courtroom until after out testimony. I was not going to testify about the accident since I was injured, just about my contentious relationship with both Alice and my mom. They tried to get my testimony excluded, but since I was the victim of the crime, I was easily allowed to testify.
To focus my mind on something else, other than the trial, I asked Edward to work with me in the gym. He had to work on come up with choreography for his first few dances for the upcoming season. I didn't want to go to the gym alone. I was strength training when Edward came over to me. His shirt was tight across his body. I licked my lips as he strolled over to me. "Bella, can you help me with this passage?"
"I'm not really cleared to do much, Edward," I said, wiping my face and standing up. "I'm better, but …"
"Just trust me. I won't put you in danger, angel," he said, tugging me off the machine I was working with. We walked to a cool studio with frosted windows. "I just need some help in figuring out some arm movements and how it'll work with a contestant."
"No leg work?" I asked.
"Just a spin back to face me," he said, positioning me in front of him. "Cross your arms with your hands on your shoulders." He talked me through the movement and we did it a few times. I could see why he wanted to work it with a partner.
"It's clunky," I retorted, wrinkling my nose. "What about this?" We tried it my way and it was smoother. Then, we worked in our combined idea into the rest of the choreography. He spun me, his hands resting on my hips after we got it up to speed. "You like it?"
"I like it," he beamed. "I missed dancing with you, Bella."
"This was hardly dancing, Edward. We were marking your ideas," I said, stepping back and moving to sit down, tightening my knee brace. "It's going to be awhile before I'm truly dancing."
"Bella, you were doing more than you give yourself credit," Edward argued. "We did some simple footwork and that amazing arm pass that you suggested."
"Hardly a dance I would have performed on the show," I deadpanned. He shot me a look. "What? It's true." He strode over to me, holding out his hand. "What?"
"Dance with me," he said.
"Perform our mambo?" I bit back.
"Follow me," he murmured. "Trust me." He tugged on my hand and pulled me to my feet. He flipped on some music, Edwin McCain's 'I'll Be.' He lifted my hand and pulled me into a tight waltz hold. His eyes never left mine as he began with a simple waltz. My legs were stiff and moving backwards made me wince, but I kept moving. Compared to the dances we'd done in the competition, this was simple, but we were almost gliding – as much as someone who had two broken, almost shattered legs – could. The song ended and Edward spun us down, seating me on his knee. His fingers glided along my jaw. "We danced, pretty girl."
"We did," I said, pressing my forehead to his. "It felt …"
"Be honest."
"It felt good, but some of the movements were painful. I think a lot of it is due to the muscles healing," I answered.
"Very painful?" he pressed.
"More like discomfort. I'm just afraid of ruining all of the headway I've made so far," I blushed. Biting my lip, I smiled at him. "I did miss being in your arms like that, though. Making love, kissing, cuddling, that's special but this is what brought us together."
"Yeah," he beamed, hugging me close to him. "I love you, pretty girl. "I would never do anything to intentionally hurt you. You will be dancing, doing lifts and twists, before you know it." I shot him a look. "Trust me. I'm done with my work and we can do some more strength training. Let's work on the muscles in your legs." We spend an hour working on my legs and then stretching out before heading back home.
The following day was much of the same. The morning I was supposed to testify, I dressed in a simple black sheath with a red and black sweater. I wore a pair of black flats, but secretly wanted to wear a pair of stilettos to show my mom and Alice that they didn't break me. McKenna and Helga said it would be a long time, if ever, before I wore heals again. I was determined to prove them wrong. For now, I wore a pair of Tory Burch flats with a matching purse. Edward and I drove to the courthouse. We were ushered inside. All of our family, both blood-related and through dance, were waiting for us in the conference room.
"What are you doing here?" I asked. "I mean, I'm grateful that you're here, but I thought …"
"Of course we'd be here," Carmen scoffed, hugging me. "Things are getting started soon. We wanted to support our favorite dancers and adoptive children."
"Bells, we want your mom to go down," Jake chuckled. "She's a bitch."
"And Alice going down with her is an extra bonus," Jasper smirked. "From what we've seen, the evidence is quite damning."
"You've been here for all of the trial?" Edward asked.
"Yeah. None of us are testifying, so we've been giving them the evil eye," Emmett grinned. "Rose wanted to be here, but the doctor put her on bed rest. Her mom is with her in Seattle, but she's just a phone call away."
"Is Rose okay?" I squeaked.
"She's fine, but her body is not taking well to the twins. She's got high blood pressure. She's confined to her bed, only able to leave to pee or to go to the doctor," Emmett said, wrinkling his nose. "If we can't get her blood pressure down, she may have to have the twins early. It was either inducing or bed rest. She chose bed rest."
"I'll call her once we're done for the day," I frowned. "I'm so sorry, Emmett. I didn't know."
"We didn't know until we went to the doctor prior to my flying out here," Emmett said. "I wanted to get Rose settled in my apartment, but we're staying in Seattle until the twins are born, moving to Chicago around once the twins are six months old. But, we'll see."
A haggard attorney walked in. "We're almost ready. I need Isabella Swan," he barked.
I stepped forward. He smiled, leading me toward the courtroom. Everyone else followed and we settled into the gallery. Mom and Alice were seated at the defense table, looking drawn and bruised. Alice looked a little better, wearing designer clothing, but she was nursing a black eye and had a brace around her wrist. My mother was dressed in a dress that was too big and her hair was unevenly cut. I took Edward's hand, blowing out a breath as several motions were read. "The people call Isabella Marie Swan," said the prosecuting attorney. I stood up, walking evenly and proudly to the witness stand.
I answered the questions from the prosecution and relived the accident, watching it on the television as it was filmed by the red-light cameras in the neighborhood. I was clearly shaken up by seeing my mom callously slam her rental car into the Uber I was in and there was a recess granted. Edward held me as I had a minor breakdown. Carlisle handed me some water and offered to give me some of my anti-anxiety medications. I shook my head because I wanted this done. Going back into the courtroom, I answered questions from both Alice and Mom's attorney. He was brutal, but he was fighting a losing battle. We took another recess for lunch after that.
Both Alice and my mom testified on their own behalf, but they were ripped to shreds by the prosecution. Alice claimed I bullied her and that it was my own actions that caused the accident. Mom blamed me for all her troubles. The jury didn't believe it for a moment. When the defensed ended their case, both sides presented their closing arguments and the case was sent to the jury.
Alistair treated all of us to dinner, but I was lost in thought. I knew that the jury saw through Alice and Renee's lies, but would they find them guilty on all charges. Would they be sent to jail? If so, for how long? Edward noticed me spacing out and threaded our fingers together. We finished our meals and went back to our house. Carlisle and Esme joined us, taking in our new home. We invited them to stay and they checked out of the hotel, spending the rest of their trip in our guest room.
The jury was still out the following morning. I was working with Carlisle on my flexibility when my cell phone rang. I couldn't reach it in time. Edward picked up. "Hello? Isabella Swan's phone. This is Edward," he said. "Oh, wow! Already? We'll be there by one. Thank you!" He ended the call, looking up at me and his dad. "Jury's back. They're going to render their verdict after the lunch recess. Court will begin at one."
"I need to shower," I said, struggling to get up. Carlisle offered me his hand and easily helped me to my feet. "Did you get any indication? Guilty? Not guilty?"
"I'm not sure, but the response was pretty unanimous since they came back so quickly," Edward said, kissing my forehead. "Whatever happens, I'll be right by your side."
xx SYTYCD xx
EPOV
Bella was a bundle of nervous energy. We were sitting in the gallery of the courtroom, anxiously awaiting the jury to come in to deliver their verdict. Renee looked smug while Alice was disheveled. The bailiff announced the judge and we rose. The jury filed in shortly after that. The foreman stayed standing. "Have you reached a verdict?" the judge asked.
"We have, your honor," replied the foreman. He handed a piece of paper to the bailiff, who brought it to the judge.
Reading the piece of paper, he nodded. "Will the defendants please rise?" Renee and Alice stood up, looking expectantly at the jury. "How does the jury find?"
"We find the defendants guilty of all charges and recommend the maximum sentences for both," the foreman replied.
"Thank you for your service and I will take your sentencing suggestion to heart as I determine their punishment," the judge smiled. "Mary Alice Brandon and Renee Higginbotham Swan, you are hereby remanded to California State Prison until sentencing. Bailiffs, take the defendants into custody."
Alice started crying hysterically while Renee was screaming obscenities about the jury being rigged. She started spewing hate toward Bella and my girl cringed, snuggling close to me. I wrapped her in an embrace, glaring at her mother until she was out of the courtroom. Bella slumped against me and I led her out of the courtroom. "Angel," I whispered, sitting her down on a bench. "Talk to me."
"They found her guilty," she whispered. She blinked at me, her brows furrowed. "I should be happy, but I'm not. I don't know how to feel. Upset, maybe?"
"It makes sense that you're upset, Bella. The jury found that your mom was complicit in your accident. She was guilty of trying to kill you," I growled. "She killed that driver." I cupped her face, wiping her tears away. "Do you want your medication?"
"I want to talk to …" she muttered. "Dr. Fredericks, but he's not here. He's in Chicago. I need to talk to someone, Edward. Someone who can help me make sense of what I'm feeling. I feel so empty and lost." I gathered her in my arms and let her sob it out. I looked up and saw my mom on the phone, talking frantically with someone.
"Edward, we may need to go out the back way," Alistair whispered in my ear. "There's a crowd of reporters, anxious to get in Bella's face about the verdict. Carmen is out there now, placating them, but they want your girl."
"I'll get the car," Dad said, taking my car keys. We moved to the rear entrance and just as the press figured out that we were not coming the front entrance, Dad sped away as I held Bella in my lap. Once we got back to our home, a friend of Dr. Fredericks was waiting for us at the house. Her name was Dr. Natalie Santiago and she spent time with Bella as she came to grips with the jury's decision, sending her mother and arch-nemesis to jail. After Dr. Santiago left, Bella was quiet, but she wasn't as agitated. I asked if she wanted to talk, but Bella said no.
Dr. Santiago came back the next day and the day following before Bella spoke about her mother's conviction. "I want to speak at the sentencing, speaking immediately to the press," she said. "I'm finally at peace with the decision and I'm okay. I know you were worried, Edward."
"You were crying in your sleep," I said, pulling her to my side.
"Reliving the accident, I think," she shrugged. "Plus, I've been pushing myself with my physical aspect of my recovery. I was hurting." She snorted quietly. "I'm feeling much better. I feel vindicated that my mom and Alice were found guilty. I was just overwhelmed by my emotions." She moved to sit on my lap and brushed my hair from my face. "I love you, Edward. I couldn't have gotten through this without you." She slid her arms around my neck and snuggled to me. I held her tightly, blowing a breath. Pulling back, she looked at me. "I think we should get away after the sentencing hearing. A weekend away, you know? Celebrate the end of the trial?"
"That sounds like a perfect idea. Let me make the arrangements," I smiled, kissing her soft, pouty lips. "When is the sentencing hearing?"
"End of next week," she said, giving me a slow, seductive grin. "And let's go somewhere where clothing is optional."
"Done!" I smirked, squeezing her ass.
The time to the sentencing hearing went by quickly. Bella spent her mornings either writing or working with a trainer. The afternoons were spent with McKenna, working on rebuilding her muscles for dance. I met up with Jessica or Tia to work on my dances for the show. I would have had Bella by my side, but she still wasn't cleared to do many of the moves I was incorporating in my choreography. I also made arrangements for an extended getaway to Cabo San Lucas, in a private villa. It was definitely 'clothing optional.' The location of the villa was remote and I made a mental list of all the places of where I was going to fuck my girl.
The morning of the sentencing hearing, Bella dressed to impress. She even wore a pair of heels, determined to show her mother that she was not going away. Walking into the courtroom, Bella sat proudly, smirking and confident. The judge walked in and he spoke briefly before he blinked to Bella. She stood up and walked to the center of the courtroom. "My name is Isabella Swan and the actions of my mother and Alice Brandon irreparably changed my life. They knowingly planned a calculated attack against me, taking the life of an unsuspecting Uber driver. My legs were crushed and if I had not been in peak physical form, I would have lost both limbs. As you can see, I did NOT lose my legs, but my career as a dancer is questionable, at best. They took this action because they were both jealous and pissed off that I won a competition. A competition that I won fair and square. My mom was upset because of my relationship with my dad and the fact that he mortgaged my childhood home to pay for an initial injury. She blamed me for my father's death. She blamed me for everything. She wouldn't let it go and it festered to this.
"Alice had it out for me since we met. She latched onto my mother and combined, their delusions of grandeur caused this. Caused all of this. They knowingly caused the death of that driver. They attempted to kill me. They slandered my name, saying that I used illegal drugs. My mom violated HIPAA, informing the press of my private medical information," she said. "My life will never be the same because of their callous actions. I hope that you take all of this into consideration when you hand out sentencing." Bella walked back to her seat, threading our hands together.
"Thank you for your words, Miss Swan," the judge said, giving her a sympathetic grin. "I've read everything about your case and about the behavior of your mother and Alice. With that being said, I've made my decision. Will the defendants please rise?" They did. "Renee Higginbotham Swan, you've been found guilty of all charges by a jury of your peers. You will be sentenced to maximum amount for those charges, with the possibility of parole in twenty-five years. Your home, and liquid assets will be distributed to your daughter, Isabella Swan. Mary Alice Brandon, you've also been found guilty of all charges by a jury of your peers. Your sentence will be twenty years since you were not the one behind the wheel. However, you and your family will pay Isabella Swan a sum of $5 million dollars to pay for her medical expenses and lost employment."
"How can I pay that?" Alice squeaked. "I don't have that kind of money."
"That's for your attorneys to figure out, young lady," the judge said sternly. "Miss Swan, I wish you all of the best. Court is adjourned." He got up and left the bench. Alice and Renee were escorted away. Alice was sobbing hysterically while Renee was completely devoid of emotion. She shot Bella a look, narrowing her eyes evilly. Bella flipped her off before walking out of the courtroom. Standing in front of the reporters, she repeated what she said to the judge. Then, she said that she was slowly working on getting back on the dance floor and would appreciate privacy during this time of healing. Without responding to questions, Bella took my hand and we strode off, hopping into a limo and going to LAX for four days of rest, relaxation and rated-R times between the sheets.
xx SYTYCD xx
BPOV
"Why can't I get this?" I growled. It was mid-August and the show was in its final season. "The doctors said that I'm okay and that I'm cleared to do these jumps, spins and twists. Why am I not able to get my body to do what I want it to do?"
"Because you're gun-shy," McKenna replied. "Bella, you're doing more than any of the doctors predicted. You're using muscles that have been rebuilt, with titanium rods fused to your bones. You've got bionic limbs, girl."
"These bionic limbs suck. I want a refund," I spat, sitting down and removing my knee brace.
"Would you rather be limbless?" McKenna asked, sitting next to me. "The reason why you're so hesitant is because you're afraid of hurting. I don't blame you, but I want you to focus on the music and not the movements behind the music."
"I'm supposed to dance in front of an entire freaking audience in less than a month. Edward is working on a gorgeous contemporary/waltz/foxtrot for us to perform. But, it requires lifts and a lot of flexibility, McKenna," I said. "I can manage the lifts, but the flexibility is nonexistent."
"Bella, it's a mind game right now. I want you to pick one piece that means a lot to you and I want you to dance it. Feel the music, dance the music," McKenna said, taking my hand.
"'Angel' by Sarah McLachlan," I murmured. "It's the piece of music that got me onto the show."
"You got it," McKenna smiled. I nodded and moved to the center of the studio after I put my knee brace back on. Once I get situated, I looked at McKenna. She pressed play on my iPod and the music filled the room. I closed my eyes, remembering my dad and how proud he was of me. I focused on my love of Edward and how never wavered in his support of me. Raising my arms and standing on my tip toes, I moved to the music. I felt the music. I let the love of music and my body take over.
Was it as beautiful as it was when I performed it for my audition? No, but I danced. I danced. I trusted my body to know what to do. When the music faded away, I looked up and there are tears in my eyes. Edward was standing next to McKenna, tears falling down his cheeks. "I did it," I breathed.
"I knew you could," McKenna sang. Slinging her bag over her shoulder, she backed out of the studio. "Turn off the lights when you leave and I don't want to see butt prints all over my mirrors."
The door closed and I ran to Edward, jumping into his arms. He kissed me, his tongue sliding between my lips. Clothes are strewn around the room and he slid into me, taking me roughly against the mirrors. I moaned loudly as my body quaked around his. "Edward! YES!"
"Come for me, baby," he growled. His gruff tone made me explode and he spilled inside me. He panted heavily, wiping my hair away from my face. "You danced and you were gorgeous, love."
"Yeah, and we're leaving butt prints on the mirrors," I giggled breathlessly. Edward chuckled, held me as we moved to the center of the room. We made love once again, slow and sensual, watching in the mirrors as we came together. Edward worshipped my body and it was the best day I'd had in a long, long time. "Can we work on our piece?"
"Tomorrow. I'm off tomorrow, pretty girl," he said, kissing me tenderly. "I'm sore from working my ass off, in more ways than two." He rolled his hips, moving his softening cock inside me. "Plus, we need to clean those butt prints."
"Meh," I shrugged. "I'd rather make more."
Edward grinned crookedly, rolling us and I was perched on his lap. I was lost in him again and we stayed in the studio well until the sun down, making love multiple times and leaving our mark on the damn mirrors.
The next day, we were back in the same studio. The scent of sex still clung to the air, but we added the scent of sweat and determination as we began working our piece for the results finale. We got through the entire dance and we spent the two weeks leading up to the results finale perfecting it. I had a gorgeous dress made in a deep emerald green and Edward wore black pants with a white shirt and grey vest with a coordinating tie that went with my dress.
We practiced with the cameras the day before my birthday on the stage. It was a closed set. Only Alistair, Carmen and the camera operators were allowed in the studio. We performed the dance twice and we went back to our home. "Are you nervous, pretty girl?"
"Not nervous, per se," I said, icing my knee. "This is my swan song, Edward. I know I worked hard to get back here, but I know that I can't do this in the long run."
"What about choreographing?" he asked, massaging my feet.
"I've been thinking about that. I love dancing. I love working with dancers. I think choreography may be the best way for me to do that. I want to work with you, dancing and choreographing," I smiled.
"I love that idea," Edward beamed, moving closer to me. He kissed me tenderly. "Being your partner on the stage as well as off the stage. A dream come true."
xx SYTYCD xx
EPOV
I was a nervous wreck. Not because of dances being featured on the results show. Not because of dancing with Bella. I was anxious to do that and eager to do so. I was more nervous about asking her an important question at the end of our dance. I took out the ring I'd had cleaned back in December, watching as it sparkled under the bright lights of the dressing room.
"Five minutes, Edward," called a production assistant. I closed the box, stuffing it into my pocket. "Bea, if you put any more hairspray on his head, he'll get cancer."
"Shut up. It's an important night," Bea hissed. "Do you have the microphone?"
"Yeah, yeah," he said, stuffing the mic pack into my pocket and weaving it under my shirt and onto my tie. "You're good to go. Bella's getting situated on center stage." I followed him and watched as Bella began our dance. There was not a sound in the audience, save for the music, which was a gorgeous piano piece called "A River Runs Through It." With a sweep of her arms, she gestured to me and I stepped onto the stage, spinning her in my arms. We glided across the stage, moving to the ethereal music.
Bella cupped my cheek as I lifted her, spinning us effortlessly. I kissed her as placed her on the ground, moving into a unison section. We twisted, turned and leapt across the stage. With a flourish, I picked Bella up and spun us until I was holding her on my knee. The music faded away and the crowd roared. Bella smiled, her face covered with tears. I kissed her tenderly. The crowd died down and I reached into my pocket. "Isabella Marie Swan, you have been the most wonderful gift in my life. I knew from the moment I saw you that you were special. I loved you from the second I held you in my arms. You are best friend and I want to share all of moments with you, as a dancer, a choreographer, a partner, a husband … Will you do me the honor of marrying me?" I asked. I held out the ring, my hand shaking.
"Edward," she breathed, looking into my eyes. "My Edward … yes! Yes, I'll marry you!" She leaned forward, kissing me and tossing her arms around my neck. "I love you!"
"I adore you," I cried, slipping the ring onto her finger. "You are truly my angel, Bella. I'm so blessed to have you in my life."
"I'm the blessed one," she breathed, gazing down at her ring. Blinking up to the camera, she waggled her fingers. "I said yes. Another dream come true and this one means more than words can express." She kissed me again and having her in my arms, knowing that she was going to be my wife meant more than being America's favorite dancer, a choreographer, or anything else.
She was going to be my wife and I was going to be her husband. That was my dream come true. My dream fulfilled.
A/N: And that, my friends, is the last real chapter of So You Think You Can Dance? We have an epilogue, which will wrap up some questions, like details about their wedding, a glimpse into their future, and what truly happened to Renee and Alice.
Pictures of Bella's engagement ring are on my blog, as well as a recording of the song Bella and Edward danced to for their final dance. Leave me some loving!