We made it. The final chapter. :)
I can't thank everyone enough for all the support and love you have shown this story. The amount of recs it received and having it nominated for an award meant the world to me.
LostInPA, what can I say, her support and advice was invaluable. I am so grateful that she was willing to beta for this story. To Beautifulnightmarex, thank you! You have stuck with me through both of my stories and I appreciate what you do more than I can say.
I'm not sure about future stories, life is pretty busy right now. However, in the spirit of a shameless plug, for those of you who like suspenseful, twisty stories with a detailed plot, I invite you to check out my other story as well. It's complete, so there won't be any torturous cliffhangers to wait through. ;)
Alright, on with the show!
Epilogue: No Ordinary Love
"I understood myself only after I destroyed myself. And only in the process of fixing myself, did I know who I really was."
Sade Andria Zabala
Time marches forward…
One year.
It's hard to fathom that it's been that long. I still remember every detail of that day, the chaos, and the fear that I would never survive it. Yet here I am, stronger and happier than I'd ever thought possible. I've not only endured a year without my dad, but in many ways, I've thrived.
"Bella," Edward shouts, opening the front door. "You ready?"
"Almost," I yell, stuffing a few final items into my bag.
This past year has been a whirlwind of emotion, and through it all, Edward has stood by my side. We've had our fair share of struggles, especially early on as we worked through my insecurities about our future and his uncertainty about the direction of his life. He's been incredibly patient, always showing me through his actions that he was here to stay, while also never pushing for more than I was ready to give. He allowed me to work through and put to rest my hurt and grief, as well as my concerns about his trustworthiness. I'd like to think that we've come out better because of it.
Today, I feel grounded, content, and secure. Without a doubt, I know that I can trust him and myself. So much so that just a few months ago, I asked him to take another leap of faith with me.
"Hey, Edward?" I blurt out while watching him leave.
He turns in the doorframe. "Yeah?"
Swallowing my nerves, I spit out the words before I change my mind. "How would you like to use that key more often?"
Confusion colors his face as he looks down at his key chain. "Umm, I use it almost every day."
"That didn't come out right," I mutter, twisting my hands. "I want you to stay here."
Edward's eyes widen before he breaks into a dazzling smile. Moving back into the house, he quickly shuts and locks the door behind him. "What are you trying to ask, baby?"
With Edward close enough to touch, I run my hand down his chest. "I want you around all the time. I want you here when I go to sleep and in the morning when I wake up."
Edward leans forward, his breath ghosting across my face. "Ask me."
"Move in with me?"
The words barely escape my lips before his mouth covers mine. "Yes," he mumbles, deepening the kiss and pushing me against the wall.
"I seem to remember being here before," I hum between breathless kisses.
"This time though, I'm not leaving."
"Ever?" I ask with a smile.
"Ever." Sweeping me into his arms, he walks upstairs.
My lips travel up and down his neck. "When can you move in?"
"Is tomorrow too soon?" He lays me on the bed, hovering above.
"What about your lease?"
"Fuck my lease." The gruff intensity of his voice sends shivers down my spine.
His lips attack mine, both of our bodies scooting until we are closer to the headboard. Reaching back, he pulls his shirt up and off, I lean forward to follow, but he pushes me back, his body quickly pinning me to the bed. His hands find mine. Tangling our fingers, he stretches my arms over my head. Greedy lips work their way down one side of my neck and up the other. Each touch brings me closer to the brink of madness, my body longing for him. With practiced agility, he helps me out of my clothes before quickly disposing of the rest of his. Laying on his side, Edward's hand slowly caresses my body, the heat of his touch burning a trail along my chilled skin. There is an enduring vulnerability in his eyes as the power of the moment intensifies making me realize that it is more than just our bodies that have been laid bare.
Shifting until he is once again above me, Edward rubs his nose down the length of mine softly. "I love you, Bella Swan."
"I love you too."
His face breaks into a blinding grin. "I'll never get tired of hearing that."
"Then I guess I'll never stop saying it."
He kisses me slowly, the passion behind his deliberate movements overwhelming. Connected by body and soul, we move together. Breathless, I soar off the edge to ecstasy.
The sight of Edward's things mingled with mine still fills me with an indescribable warmth. I knew this house was always my home, but it wasn't until it became "ours" that it really felt complete.
Catching sight of the clock, I quickly break away from my reverie and rush down the stairs. "Any word from Ben?" I ask, walking into Edward's waiting arms.
"He called about a half an hour ago. He should be here any minute."
"I can't believe he was able to get away."
"You know he wouldn't miss this." A sudden knock on the door makes us both turn. "Speak of the devil."
Untangling from Edward, I run over to open the door. Standing on the stoop is an almost unrecognizable Ben wearing Ray Ban sunglasses, an army green jacket, shoulder-length hair, and a porn-star mustache. I have to stifle my automatic laugh. "Wow! When did the CIA start traveling back in time to solve cases?"
"Hardy, har, har. Try living with this getup," Ben smirks before drawing me into a tight embrace.
"Holy shit!" Edward laughs as we walk back into the house. "Please tell me you're changing before we leave."
"Yes," he huffs. "I'll have enough time to grow the 'stache back before I have to go, but I need to leave the hair."
"You better get a move on then. We have to leave in twenty minutes no matter what. We are not missing this flight," Edward admonishes.
"Chill, man. I'm on it," Ben joshes with a hippy accent and sarcastic salute. Carrying a large bag, he walks past us to the spare bathroom. Eighteen minutes later, he returns looking a little more like the Ben I remember, dressed in black slacks, a dark blue dress shirt, and black tie.
"Everyone meeting us there?" he inquires as we walk out the door to the waiting cab.
"Yeah," I confirm.
"How's the business?" Ben asks, turning towards Edward.
"Good." Edward takes my bag and opens the door of the cab so I can slide in. "Work is steady. Your people have really helped make it a success."
Edward struggled for several months trying to figure out exactly what he was going to do next. The CIA tried to convince him to stay, but he maintained that he wanted out of the spy game.
Surprisingly, Edward's interest ended up drifting more towards the business end of his recent experience instead of law enforcement. Although he hated the underlying nature of his grandfather's company, he liked the good that his influence could bring, like the charity event held at Alice's museum. He also admitted that there were aspects of the actual business part of the company that he liked.
Therefore, with the help of funding from his trust, he ultimately decided to start a legitimate security business that specializes in helping startup companies develop a secure computer network. Ben assisted by providing names of some trusted and reliable computer experts that could deal with the technical aspect of things. Although he loves his work with the CIA, a part of me suspects that the choice is also in part to provide him an alternative when he is ready. I'm just patiently waiting for the announcement of when he will officially join Edward.
Beyond regular charity events, Edward has also used his business expertise to start a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals and families overcome substance abuse. A cause that understandably became important after spending years watching his mother struggle. She continues to be a touchy subject in his life. He moved her to a facility near San Francisco a few weeks after Riley's death, but unfortunately, she continues to grapple with her addiction and health. It's difficult for him to watch her live a shell of a life that could have been so different.
Channeling all of his frustrated energy at not being able to help her into the non-profit organization made it successful quickly, gaining recognition and support from San Francisco's elite. I know it will never fill the hole she left behind, but watching other families succeed makes him feel like he's finally doing something good with his family's legacy.
Pulling up to the curb at the airport, Edward throws money at the cabbie. Rushing through the door, we run to security, which thankfully has a short line, and make it to the gate just in time for them to start calling the first passengers. I immediately spot Rose, Emmett, Jasper, and Alice anxiously waiting for us in the corner. They are dressed in their business finest, with Emmett sporting his dress blues.
"Jesus!" Jasper exhales, rushing forward. "I didn't think you guys were going to make it."
"Blame him." I throw my thumb in Ben's direction.
"Good to see you." Jasper smiles, holding out his hand to shake Ben's.
"You too." Ben turns the rest of the group. "Emmett," he says, patting him on the shoulder. "Alice." He pulls her into a hug, which she reciprocates with ease. Turning towards Rose, he simply nods with a tight smile. "Rose."
Once the craziness with Riley died down, tensions revved up between my friends. Given the nature of the work we do, I foolishly hoped that, for the most part, they would understand and accept the choices I had to make. Law enforcement often entails secrets for the greater good, and I know they are not naïve to the code of agencies like the CIA. However, I swiftly learned that when it comes to the people you also trust with your friendship, emotion often overpowers logic.
Jasper's even disposition made him the easiest one to reach. Thankfully, he remained the most rational and often times neutral within the group. His calming presence was helpful on more than one occasion, especially when it came to the tension between Emmett and Edward.
Edward's decision to keep the truth from him for so long really bothered Emmett. Ironically, he acknowledged that he understood from a law enforcement perspective, but regardless, he labored with the lies told by his best friend. Truthfully, I think a lot of his hurt came from knowing that Ben knew everything. Emmett's underlying feelings finally boiled over a couple of weeks after Riley's death.
I follow Jasper through the gate and towards the basketball court at the far end where Emmett, Edward, and Ben are waiting. They have met to play on a handful of occasions, but today will be the last as Ben leaves for his next assignment tomorrow. Since today's game is taking place during our lunch break, I was able to sneak away to witness the final showdown. As usual, the teams are broken into Ben and Edward against Emmett and Jasper.
Munching on a sandwich, I watch from a nearby bench, cheering whenever anyone makes a basket. As the game progresses, Emmett's coverage of Ben becomes more and more aggressive. I can tell by Ben's body language that he's getting frustrated, but is holding himself back from saying anything.
In the middle of an intense play, Emmett suddenly elbow checks Ben directly in the nose. Grabbing a napkin, I jump up and run onto the court.
"What the hell is your problem?" Ben roars, pushing Emmett back and swiping at the blood dripping from his nose.
"No problem, man. Just defending my territory," Emmett hisses.
"Bullshit!" Edward shouts.
"Are you okay?" I ask, handing Ben the napkin. "Is it broken?"
Ben grabs the napkin, refusing to take his eyes off Emmett. "It's fine," he grits out between clenched teeth. "I've had worse."
"Aren't you just the warrior," Emmett jabs sarcastically.
"Emmett!" Jasper chastises.
"If you've got something to say then just say it." Ben tries to step forward, but I'm blocking his path.
I feel the heat of Emmett's body as he moves closer. "Fine."
Edward grabs my arm, pulling me away and pushing me behind him in one fluid motion. "Watch it," he growls looking between them.
"Okay, cool it," Jasper interrupts, pushing his way between Ben and Emmett. "Ben, take a walk. Emmett and Edward have some things they need to work out."
Maneuvering out from behind Edward, I walk over and grab Ben's arm. "Come on. Let's get you some ice." He silently glares for a bit before finally allowing me to drag him away.
Leading Ben away from the courts, I look back to see Edward and Emmett in the midst of a heated conversation. Jasper is standing in the middle, no doubt mediating whatever they are saying.
"I hope they don't kill each other."
"As far as I'm concerned, Edward can knock him the fuck out," Ben growls, still trying to stop his nose from bleeding.
"Well then, killer, it's a good thing that you're coming with me," I grumble, not wanting things to get any worse.
Amazingly, by the time we return, things appear to be resolved, all three talking and smiling. Reaching the court, Emmett steps towards Ben with an outreached hand.
"Sorry, man."
Ben looks at him for a moment before grabbing it in a firm shake. "We good?"
"We're good," Emmett confirms.
"I'm starving, let's go find some food," Edward announces walking up to them.
"Fantastic. A good fight always makes me hungry," Ben jests with a smirk.
I stand, mouth agape, watching as the three of them head back towards the street.
"Don't question it," Jasper says, walking over to me. "It's how we roll."
Shaking my head, I smile and follow. "Boys."
Since that day, Emmett and Ben have become fast friends, which ended up being crucial when it came to dealing with Rose's reaction. She struggled to let things go the most, especially with Edward and Ben. For months, she refused to give them a break, making things incredibly awkward for everyone. Finally, with the help of Emmett, Edward orchestrated a meeting to hash things out. I don't know the details of what went down, but somehow they managed to work out a truce. Rose will never ever be their biggest fans, but at least she's finally accepted that Edward and Ben are a permanent part of my life, and for that I am thankful.
"How are you feeling?" Alice asks interrupting my internal musings.
"Good. Nervous, but good."
"You're going to knock them dead." She smiles, bumping me with her hip. I smile and bump her back, happy and grateful that she's coming today.
Alice was surprisingly the most hurt by the ordeal, saddened that I didn't reach out to her. I guess in my mind, I thought she would understand my need to follow my instinct. However, I soon realized that her hurt didn't come from the choices I made, but my lack of trust in her.
Taking a calming breath, I take the two glasses of wine and walk back into the living room to where Alice is sitting stiffly on the couch.
"Here you go," I mutter, handing her the glass without making eye contact, afraid that the emotions reflected in her eyes will be my undoing.
"Thanks," she whispers with a shaky voice.
The room falls into an uncomfortable silence. My stomach twists and turns waiting for the tension to break. Ever since Alice said that we needed to talk, I'd been dreading this moment. In many respects, Rose is easier to deal with when it comes to these types of conversations. She yells, I listen, we find a middle ground, and then we are good. Alice likes to analyze things, and this time, I don't know if I have any good answers to give her.
"You're like my sister," Alice says, taking the first step. "I would tell you anything."
"I know."
"Do you? Because I thought that went both ways. I thought you knew that you could trust me."
Flinching at the sharp edge of her tone, I snap my head up to look at her. "I do trust you."
Her eyes fill with tears, the sight pinching my heart further. "Then why couldn't you just tell me? I would have helped. I could have been there for you."
A sorrowful sigh escapes my lips, my heart pounding with the fear that she will never forgive me. "Alice, I promise it wasn't like that. I was going ninety miles a minute trying to figure out what to do next. Everything I believed was turned upside down, and then when I found out about Edward and Ben…well, their survival and mine depended upon keeping their secret. I had no choice."
"You always have a choice, Bella," she bites out, grasping her glass tightly.
"It's wasn't that easy, Al." My voice cracks as I struggle to control my own tears.
I don't know what to say. I understand why she is upset, but I can't honestly say that I would have done anything differently. Still, that confession won't help, and in truth, it only makes me feel worse. I just hope that I can convince her that I never wanted to hurt her.
"I'm hurt that you didn't trust me first."
I hesitate, confused by her choice of words. "I'm not sure I'm following."
Alice exhales and sets her glass on the coffee table in front of her. "I'm not a cop. I'm the only one who didn't have someone to report to that cared about your situation. Rose, Emmett, and Jasper all would have had a conflict of interest. They would have been obligated to tell someone else the truth. But not me."
"Are you telling me that you would have been willing to keep that kind of secret from your husband?" Alice looks down quickly. She and I both know that would have been impossible. "How could I put you in that position? I love you but this was one situation I couldn't share. No matter how much I trust you. I'm sorry that I hurt you. I never wanted that, and I want more than anything to find a way to move past this."
The silence descends again, both of us taking an awkward sip of wine to fill the space. "I want to ask you to promise not to do it again." Her quiet voice reverberates through the room.
"I hope I never have to, but I can't promise you that, not with what I do. And not when it comes to Ben and what he does."
"What about Edward?"
"What about him?" I ask, confused.
"Is he still going to…you know, work undercover?"
"Oh. No, I don't think so. He says that he's done."
"So you won't have to lie for him anymore," she states, contemplating the new development. "What is he going to do instead?"
"He's still trying to figure that out," I say quickly, not wanting the conversation to veer too much off topic. Right now, all I care about is how she feels. "Are we going to be okay?" I ask bluntly.
"We will be," she utters unconvincingly.
"You're my best friend. I don't want to lose that. Tell me what to do to make it up to you."
"I honestly don't know," she says with a weary shrug. "This is new territory."
I set my glass down and grab her hand, the tears finally falling. "I'm sorry."
She looks up, her own tears streaming down her face. Unexpectedly, she wraps her arms around me. "I miss my friend," she whispers.
"I'm here," I declare holding her tighter. "I'm here."
"Just be my friend. That's all I need."
"I promise." We may not have solved everything tonight, but the heavy weight that was suffocating me earlier has finally lifted. We will be okay. She is after all my Alice.
The most difficult aspect of this past year were the times when we couldn't just hang out together, the strain between everyone too great. I sometimes felt like I was in the middle of a divorce, having to choose whom I invited to the same events and making sure not to focus on one person over another. Nowadays it's better, and standing here surrounded by everyone I love, I feel like we're finally at a point where we can live our lives together again, which brings us to our trip today.
A month ago, I received a call from the Captain of Seattle's police department letting me know that they wanted to celebrate my dad's distinguished career by commemorating a new park in his name. The dedication is a significant statement by the Seattle Police Department. It not only recognizes him for the hero that he was, but also shows that they acknowledge their mistake of ever doubting him.
"Thank God the weather is working with us. I still think we're cutting this too close," Emmett states, adjusting a bag on his shoulder.
"Bella had court, remember," Edward replies. "This was the earliest we could leave."
"And Mike was an ass to make you go," Rose grumbles.
"All I care about is that I'm still able to make it," I assert. "The Chief will have cars waiting when we arrive to take us right to the ceremony. He also booked us rooms at the hotel that the party is being held afterward."
"So we're all getting drunk tonight then?" Ben quips. "In memoriam of course," he adds quickly after I shoot him a look.
"Of course," I jibe back. In truth, I know Charlie would have joined right in if he could.
After settling into my seat, Edward grabs my hand to stop me from picking at my clothes and the seat nervously. When the Captain called about the ceremony, he also asked me to give a speech. He said he couldn't think of anyone else that my father would want to talk on his behalf. I saw this as a second chance to say everything I wanted to say at his funeral but frustratingly couldn't find the strength or the words at the time to express it. This is my opportunity to ensure that everyone knows how amazing my dad was and how much of a difference he made in this world. It will be the sendoff he deserved to have last year.
"Stop worrying," Edward whispers leaning over. "You're going to be great."
"I can do this," I confirm, trying not to let my nerves get the best of me. I want to make my dad proud.
The hour and a half flight goes quickly and before I know it the plane lands. Thankfully, I don't have much time to mentally torture myself between our mad dash to the waiting cars and the park. Arriving just in time, the Chief rushes over and drags me off to meet all of Seattle's law enforcement administration. In a blur of introductions and handshakes, I meet dozens of people, most of whom I won't remember later, each expressing their sympathy and enthusiasm about the ceremony. Although not next to me, I can sense Edward nearby, watching for any sign that I need him. All too soon, the Chief hustles me onto the stage to start.
Looking at the crowd, I'm overwhelmed by the hundreds of people who came out to honor my dad. Grabbing the wooden podium in front of me, I take a breath and try to calm my shaking legs. Glimpsing towards the front row, Edward catches my eye and smiles, mouthing the words I love you and giving me a supportive nod. Exhaling, I straighten my notes and gaze out into the audience.
"Life is not about the destination, but the journey you take. That was one of my dad's favorite sayings, yet I never really understood the power of it until I lost him."
I look over at his picture on my right to gather my thoughts, remembering all of the advice my dad gave me, whether I wanted it or not. I'd give anything for him to give me advice again.
"When I was eleven, I lost my mom to cancer, and at first, I was afraid that my whole world would end, but my dad proved to me that life goes on. He made everything better, and for all intent and purpose, was my best friend. Even though he desperately missed my mom, he continued to live vibrantly, making my life safe and fun. Back then, I never saw him struggle. Now I realize that he must have kept it hidden for my benefit. My father was incredibly strong and courageous."
A round of applause interrupts me. Once again my eyes drift over to Edward, his encouraging smile giving me the strength to continue.
"My dad was my hero. His stories, gestures, and big heart made the world bright and shiny. I think he made it his mission to make sure that my view of the world didn't darken. His stories and weekend escapades are some of my best memories. His infectious imagination made even the most mundane objects wondrous and amazing. A dark tunnel became a mysterious porthole, and a piece of trash transformed into a long-lost treasure with the wind its escort on an epic journey. Life was always an exciting adventure when he was around. I never knew what to expect and I loved it."
I can't stop a lone tear from rolling down my cheek, looking again towards his picture. "The world became duller after he died."
The silence of the audience is deafening. I clear my throat, reminding myself not to get lost in the past. I don't want this day to be about grief and sadness. "I admit I was lost for a while. I forgot for a moment who I was and what he wanted for me. The truth is, my dad wanted my life to be extraordinary. My dad wanted all of our lives to be extraordinary."
Applause erupts again. "That is why on the day that the city is honoring the memory of my father and his career by dedicating this beautiful park in his name, I want to also announce that with the help of the Cullen Foundation," I gesture towards Edward, "We are starting a program to offer a positive alternative for girls living on the streets."
I pause, waiting as another wave of applause dies down. "The last case my dad worked on became his passion. He wanted to find justice for the girls that everyone else seemed to forget. With this program, I intend to ensure that we never forget about them again. With today's announcement, I'm asking everyone to stay tuned and help me build my father's legacy. I will need all of you and your support to make this happen." The response of the crowd makes me smile.
Turning, I acknowledge the other individuals on the stage. "Thank you, Chief Taylor, for making this day happen. I'm honored and know that my father would love this." Looking back at his picture, I smile. "I love you, Dad." The crowd stands in an ovation and watches as I cut the official red ribbon.
Well-wishers and people wanting to know more about the organization I mentioned quickly swarm me as soon as the ceremony is over. Although I hate the spotlight, I feel good about my father's memory living on just as I hoped.
Edward elbows his way through the crowd around me and swiftly pulls me into his arms. "You did great, baby. Your dad would be proud."
"Thanks. I'm glad it's over," I exhale, shaking out my shoulders subtly trying to get some air to my sweaty underarms.
"Justice, you make speeches all the time in court. This should be old hat for you," Ben laughs watching me.
"Don't laugh, jerk." I punch his shoulder. "Court is different. I hate talking in front of crowds."
"Well, you wouldn't know it. You did great, Bella," Emmett remarks, saddling up next to Ben.
"Your dad is smiling down at you, I know it," Alice adds, giving me a tight hug.
"That's a fact," Rose agrees, holding onto Emmett's hand. "It was a beautiful speech and a well-deserved recognition."
I look around the peaceful park full of trees and benches. "It really was. He would have loved it here."
"Okay, gang," Emmett booms watching the crowd start to dissipate. "I think it's time to get this party started."
"For Charlie!" Jasper says with a smile.
"For Charlie." We shout simultaneously.
Walking into the ballroom, I'm taken aback. The room is beautiful with early evening sunlight filtering through the floor to ceiling windows, which provide a stunning view of the city. I reach out for Edward as my breath hitches when I see that they have fishing gear and Mariners' memorabilia scattered throughout the room. The tables are decorated in traditional Mariner's team colors and vases filled with baseballs to anchor floral centerpieces. It is an impeccable tribute to a man who was not big on fancy events.
"Wow! This is amazing," Edward whispers.
Ben stands next to me, his eyes taking in the scene. "I wish I had known your dad. From the looks of this room, we would have gotten along great."
"I think you would have too."
There is a DJ booth in the corner playing a seventies disco hit. Just then, the song changes to Y.M.C.A.; someone must have told him that my dad was a sucker for group dances.
"Aww yeah," Emmett draws out, dancing his way towards the front of the group. "Time to get our groove on." He quickly pulls Rose with him, who latches onto Alice, who, of course, grabs Jasper. Ben laughs and follows the chain willingly.
Edward grimaces. Unlike my dad, he is not a fan of silly dances. Undeterred by his sour face, I grab his hand. "Hey, if you can't beat them, join them." I smile pulling him with me onto the dance floor.
The evening was a joyful celebration of my father's life just as he would have wanted it. When I wasn't dancing with Edward and my friends, my dad's law enforcement family were telling me stories of their time together and important cases that he solved. Alice is right, my Dad is most certainly shining down on us.
It was a perfect night.
Edward stands stoically, allowing me a quiet moment to gaze upon my father's grave. The air is thick with moisture making the early morning dew linger around us. Leaning into Edward's warmth, I wrap my sweater around my body. Before we head back to San Francisco, I wanted one last visit with my dad.
"He wanted me to have a good life."
"He did," Edward confirms, squeezing my shoulder.
"I'm going to have a good life," I state confidently. "I won't forget again."
"And I won't let you," he proclaims.
We stand quietly for several more minutes, a peace washing over me. "Love you, Dad." Blowing one last kiss, I start walking away but stop when Edward pulls on my hand.
"I need a minute."
"Sure," I whisper.
"Alone," he clarifies, his eyes pleading for understanding without questioning the request.
"Oh, okay."
I move over to sit on a bench several feet away and watch as he walks back to my father's grave with a purpose. With his hands in his pockets, he talks quietly for several minutes before patting the headstone and turning towards me.
"Am I allowed to ask what that was about?" I question when he sits down next to me.
Edward looks at me with a wistful smile. "Unfinished business." My eyebrow raises in question, hoping that he'll clarify on his own. "The last conversation we had was pretty bad."
"When you told him that you were leaving," I quietly surmise.
"Yeah. To say he was angry doesn't give justice to it."
"I can imagine."
Edward smirks again. "He told me that I'd regret it. Whatever it was that was taking me away, he said I'd change my mind. He just hoped for both our sakes that it wouldn't be too late." Edward grabs my hand, staring into my eyes. "Like everything else, he was right. I just thank God every day that I wasn't too late. My life is nothing without you in it."
"I feel the same way." I pull our entwined hands closer. "Did you say everything you needed to say?"
His eyes drift towards the grave. "I asked him to forgive me and I promised that I'd never let you down again."
"He would have forgiven you," I affirm knowingly. "He would have made you grovel, but he would have welcomed you back. That's who he was." The thought of his forgiving heart makes me smile.
Edward leans over to kiss my hair. "I hope you're right. Especially considering—" he closes his mouth before he finishes the thought, almost as if he hadn't realized that he was verbalizing it aloud.
"Considering," I lead, wanting him to continue.
Standing, he pulls me up with him. "Nothing," he grumbles.
"You don't have a 'nothing' face. Come on, no more secrets, remember."
"Sorry, but for now it stays between your dad and me." Looking down at our hands, he rubs my fingers. "Don't worry though, you'll know soon enough." Leaning over, he kisses me deeply.
"No fair trying to distract me," I murmur breathlessly, frowning.
"All's fair in love and war, baby."
"And what is this?" I ask mischievously, tugging on his jacket.
"Hmmm. I'm not sure, kiss me again and then I should be able to tell you."
"Okay," I draw out. "But purely for clarification purposes."
"Of course," he says sternly, although his lips curl into a smile.
Standing on my toes, I pour all of my emotions into the kiss, and from the powerful sensations I'm experiencing in return, I would say that Edward is doing the same.
"Love, Bella. It's all love."
"Yeah it is." I walk my fingers up his chest. "So, can you tell me now?"
"You're incorrigible," he laughs, taking my hand to walk us back to the rental car.
"Hey, you slipped up, not me. Don't forget, I'm a prosecutor. I can get it out of you."
"Undercover agent," he retorts. "I don't break easily."
"This isn't over, mister."
"Come on, Ms. Swan, we're going to miss our flight."
Laughing, I look back one last time, finally believing that life does indeed go on, just as it should.
The End