Chapter 29: Reception
Bella POV
When we arrived for the reception, I was both, glad but sad, to see my wings had vanished. They were so beautiful, but I supposed they'd feel a little cumbersome for the rest of the night. I marveled at everything my eyes landed on. Everywhere I looked, I saw beauty and joy on the faces of everyone I cared about.
Alice and the family had arranged a huge, but very lovely tent, to accommodate all the guests, near the church. It was decorated with some of the most beautiful blue and purple hues of flowers, that maintained the enchanted garden theme, even in this cold winter. It almost looked like spring had rolled in early, just for the wedding. And yet, it still had a type of winter wonderland theme. I could see what looked like icicles sparkling on the center pieces and some of the flowers hanging from the ceiling. When I questioned Alice how she managed to get winter and spring under the same roof, she told me Angela and her family helped make the spring portion happen, while Ben and his family manipulated the water to create the icicles. There really wasn't anything else I could ask for, and I made sure to tell Alice she'd outdone herself.
Someone announced it was time for the Bride and Groom to have the first dance. Edward guided me to the dance-floor, which was made to resemble a grassy field with snow littered about. I recognized the song right away and let him sweep me around to Iron & Wine's "Flightless Bird American Mouth", just like we danced at prom together.
"Flightless swan, I suppose is more fitting." He whispered in my ear, responding to the song's lyrics, as we swayed happily in each other's arms.
"Bella, you were vision, as you walked down the aisle. I will be eternally grateful to my vampire memory, so I may never forget the way you looked." He sweetly said.
"Thank you. For once, I felt beautiful and worthy of walking towards you to become your wife. I had no idea they would come out. I don't even know where they came from, although I can guess." I told him giggling and gestured upwards.
Without releasing me at all, he moved his head away from my ear so I could see him. He never ceased our dance, but he seriously responded to my comment.
"Bella, you have always been more than worthy of me. In fact, it's me that will spend the rest of this life trying to live up to the man you deserve. No one could deny your beauty, but your heart, your soul, and everything that makes you, you … Bella, no another being on this earth can rival it. Please, Mrs. Cullen, never downplay yourself to me again." He told me seriously but so incredibly loving.
I felt my eyes water, but I nodded my head and smiled instead of letting them spill. Instead, I kissed him passionately and he returned my kiss just as fervently. I heard many people clapping and cheering us on again, and was pulled out of our deep moment, just as our song was ending.
The DJ announced that today was also a celebration for Jared and Leah's recent elopement. They were asked to come to the dance floor, for their first dance, just as Edward and I made our way, to our seats. Jared affectionately rubbed my cheek as he passed me and I shot a smile and a wink to Leah, whose happiness made her radiant. They danced beautifully to Ed Sheeran's "Thinking Out Loud".
Then, the DJ called for the Father/Daughter dance, and he said the song was a request from Charlie directly. I didn't recognize the song as the music started when I met Charlie on the dance-floor, but he took one of my hands in his. Next, he pulled me close to him and gave me a quick twirl. I smiled as I wondered who was responsible for teaching him that, since I couldn't ever recall seeing Charlie dance before now. As we swayed to pretty tune, I paid attention to the lyrics being sung.
Lyrics: "Look at the two of you, dancing that way - Lost in the moment and each other's face - So much in love, you're alone in this place - Like there's nobody else in the world - I was enough for her, not long ago - I was her number one, she told me so - And she still means the world to me - Just so you know - So be careful when you hold my girl - Time changes everything, life must go on - And I'm not gonna stand in your way."
I was feeling the sentimental feelings of the song and saw Charlie glance at Edward, who was standing nearby, before smiling back at me as we continued our dance.
Lyrics: "I loved her first - I held her first - And a place in my heart will always be hers - From the first breath she breathed - When she first smiled at me - I knew the love of a father runs deep - And I prayed that she'd find you someday - But it's still hard to give her away - I loved her first."
I felt a couple of tears slide down my cheek and I let them, because I wasn't about to let go of my dad, not for a single second to wipe them away. Besides, I figured there'd probably be several more before the song was over.
Lyrics: "How could that beautiful woman with you - Be that same freckled face kid that I knew? - The one that I read all those fairy tales to - And tucked into bed all those nights - And I knew the first time I saw you with her - It was only a matter of time."
When I noticed Charlie's eyes water, it about did me in, and I moved to hug him tighter and he welcomed me into his arms, as I continued our dance.
Lyrics: "I loved her first - I held her first - And a place in my heart will always be hers - From the first breath she breathed - When she first smiled at me - I knew the love of a father runs deep - And I prayed that she'd find you someday - But it's still hard to give her away - I loved her first."
We continued to sway softly to the beautiful and touching song that Dad chose, and I was relieved that everything was out, in the open. I was glad, this wouldn't be a bitter-sweet goodbye. I smiled, knowing, trusting, in Zeus' words – that we'd all be okay.
Lyrics: "From the first breath she breathed - When she first smiled at me - I knew the love of a father runs deep - Someday you might know what I'm going through - When a miracle smiles up at you - Yeah, I loved her first." –music fades away.
I'd be lying if I said I kept any control of my tears, but I saw I wasn't alone. In fact, I couldn't spot a dry eye among all the smiles around me. But, I noticed Leah's tears didn't come with a smile and I immediately realized she must have been thinking of Harry. My heart broke a little for her as I looked at my Dad. Charlie must have noticed what I'd seen and addressed my concern. He kissed my cheek and told me he was on it, then headed in her direction.
I was about to walk off the dancefloor when Carlisle came to my side, offering his had to me and asking for the next dance. I smiled brightly, accepted by placing my hand in his. I looked over and saw Leah was smiling through her tears as my dad whispered something her ear, then offered her his hand. She wiped her tears away and took his hand, and he led her to stand by Carlisle and myself. Just as the next song's melody filled the air, we started to dance.
Lyrics: "Someday, when I'm awfully low - When the world is cold, I will feel a glow just thinking of you - And the way you look tonight - Yes you're lovely, with your smile so warm - And your cheeks so soft - There is nothing for me, but to love you - And the way you look tonight." song continued to play.
As the song continued, I realized I was just as comfortable dancing with Carlisle, as I was when I let Edward or my dad lead me. I figured it spoke of the trust I had in them. I looked around at the friends and family that had gathered tonight, I noticed a few people snapping pictures or speaking quietly among themselves. The faces of my large and extended family were all focused on Leah and myself, and every single one of them reflected joy while we danced. I noticed Emmett stand up towards the end of the song and made his way to the DJ's mic.
As if he needs am amp – I thought to myself with a giggle. Then, I wondered what in the world he was up to, but he answered that question right away.
"Alright everybody - Enough with the gooey-feely stuff. Let's rock this icicle stand!" He yelled enthusiastically, but he wasn't done. "Get it? Icicle stand instead of Popsicle? Is this thing even on, or are the guests all dead? Guess so! " He asked and laughed at his own joke loudly, as he handed the DJ his mic back. Then, upbeat music began to play. Even above the music and people getting up to dance, I heard Emmet yell out to me, "Bella Bean, don't you move, I'm next!"
"Oh goody, this ought to be fun." I told Carlisle with a laugh. I spotted Edward pulling Alice out onto the floor and Jasper tugged Rosalie behind him as well. I also spotted Jared headed towards a very happy looking Leah. But, I was most surprised to see Jake asking Tanya to dance while, Irina was accepting Seth's offer to dance. I noticed Kate was already grooving with a tall stranger, I had yet to be introduced to, but I could tell he was a vampire.
The rest of the evening went without a hitch. I danced with Emmett and it was a hoot. Then, I danced with Jared and Jasper. I, pretty much, danced my way down the line of the entire pack and all my friends as well. Eventually, Leah, Rose and I sat down long enough to eat and it was delicious. A few times, I spotted Dad and Sue talking real close and even share a couple of dances. My mom seemed to cheer them on when they did, and I didn't detect a single ounce of negativity from Seth or Leah about that either. So, I found I was pleasantly surprised I liked the idea of them, as well.
I learned that the vampire Kate was dancing with, was Garret, an old friend of the Cullen Family. Based on how well they were getting along, I wouldn't be surprised to learn they'd found their mate in one another. There was no family drama, as I'd come to always expect and no clash of the species at all. I found Angela and Ben, and thanked them for all their help with everything. Mike was on good behavior and didn't seem to bug me anymore. Of course, I figured someone had probably threatened him with bodily harm.
I knew heavy things were headed our way, but I knew I had to trust in the power Zeus has granted me, and every one of magical people in here. I refused to let my mind go to any negative thoughts. I would enjoy this night and everybody here seemed to be on the same page. All the humans remained oblivious to the tremendous mix of supernatural beings surrounding them, and everything was just as Alice had predicted and promised … Everything was perfect.
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After the dancing and the food, the friends and the fun, the cake and the toasts, and even more dancing and pictures, the night was finally starting to wrap up. I, for one, felt tired but was still amped up from all the happy chaos of the day. Several people were still getting in some crazy dance moves, while I sat on Edward's lap. We listened and laughed at some friends telling childhood stories. Even Lauren's sour disposition seemed to have mellowed out with everyone else's good vibes… that, or she was drunk. Either way, I welcomed the change.
I saw Alice glance around and excused herself before she walked to the DJ's mic. She declared it was time for the last dance of the evening, before the big sendoff and surprise for the bride and groom. I looked to Edward to ask, but he seemed just as clueless as I was. I figured she was blocking him very well because he looked at Alice, very concentrated before shaking his head at me.
I stood up and pulled Edward to the dance floor, hoping the last dance was a good one. I heard an instrumental song begin, one I didn't recognize, but I tucked myself into Edward's arms as he moved us to the beautiful melody. When the words began, I immediately recognized it was Edward's melodic voice. He chuckled at my gasp, but I remained focused while we danced, so I could listen to his song.
Lyrics: "I might be stupid to think I could buy you dinner when some better man should, but here goes my manhood. So, we order food I can't afford. You look so perfect. Maybe I should talk more. I could probably talk more."
"And then, I kiss you for the first time. Your lips fit between mine. The taste fills my mind with the rest of our lives. You are my girl tonight."
"I follow blindly where you go. You know the "me" that no one else on earth knows, and there goes my ego. We cannot sleep in separate beds. So, I ask the question and it hasn't left my mouth yet, and I hear you say "Yes"."
"And then, I kissed you for the first time as husband and as wife. The taste fills my mind with the rest of our lives. You are my girl tonight."
"Some love is real and some is fake. I used to think my heart just healed to break. That was before our first date. And, it's hard to say what true love is. All I know, my dear, is we define it… And, in me, you'll always find it."
"So, I kiss you all the time 'cause your lips fit between mine. The taste fills my mind with the rest of our lives. You are my girl tonight - You are my girl tonight."
Without leaving the comfort of his arms, I pulled my head from where it had been on his chest. Looking into his eyes as they searched mine, I knew he must have been able to hear my thoughts, but I felt compelled to speak.
"Edward. That was a truly, beautiful song. Where did you find it, and when did you record that?" I asked him.
"Did you really like it?" He questioned, making me wonder if my vampire husband had cracked his head. How could I not? – I asked myself.
"Of course, I did, you must know I did." I told him, smiling and shaking my head.
"I wrote it." He confessed, causing my giggles to stop and stare at him.
Still, he had more to say. "Earlier tonight. I wrote it and made the recording inside the chapel, while you and the ladies were taking pictures. I meant it Bella, every word. I can see our forever and it's just as lovely as the daydream you shared with me earlier. I can't wait to get started making all those dreams come true with you, and our children." He added, so tenderly, that I kissed him with everything I felt I had.
When I pulled back, I smiled mischievously and told him to get us home, so we could start right away, on some of my other dreams and fantasies. He threw his head back and laughed, saying he was ready when I was, and I responded that I had been ready all day. He picked me up and I knew he was ready to dash us out of here, which I was perfectly okay with.
Alice interrupted our escape plan, to remind us that a surprise had been prepared for us, and said we'd have plenty of time for that, later. Edward rolled his eyes at her and looked back at me optimistically, but I just shrugged my shoulders. Honestly, as eager as I was for my wedding night with Edward, I was curious as to what the big surprise they'd managed to keep from Edward could be. Having heard my thoughts, he sighed and placed me back on the ground, ready to follow Alice.
She smiled triumphantly and clapped giddily. She led us through the inside of the chapel again, towards the front porch, while some of the guests followed behind us. When she opened the doors, I was immediately surprised to see our family holding lit sparklers standing on either side of the steps, all wearing huge smiles. The guests filed out from behind us, lighting their own sparklers with the ones that our family members had already lit.
Beyond them, I noticed a very sleek and fancy looking car that had been adorned with white ribbons and balloons. We made our way to the car, smiling and thanking everyone for having celebrated with us. When Edward opened the car door, Esme handed Edward a little device. She instructed us to follow the GPS instructions, and handed me a white envelope made out to "Mr. & Mrs. Edward Cullen". She told us to follow the instructions on the GPS before opening the envelope.
I was giddy with anticipation and noticed Edward was too. I asked if he had any idea, but he shook his head smiling and I could tell he was as excited for the surprise, as I was. I imagined it wasn't everyday Edward Cullen could be surprised, so I knew this would be great.
I was about to get into the car when I saw my parents standing off to the side with Sue, Jared and Leah. I rushed up to them and grabbed them into my arms and felt them all hug me back. It wasn't a tearful good bye or anything, but I was just so excited. I thanked them for loving me enough to be okay with the choices I'd made for myself. I knew my mom was catching a flight tomorrow, so I wished her a safe flight, and told her I'd call her soon. Once I was done with that embrace, the Cullens were next and I repeated the same wide armed hug trying to group them all in. They hugged me back enthusiastically, while chuckling at my antics.
Eventually, I released them and made my way to the car where Edward waited, with a fond smile. He opened the passenger door and took my hand, helping me in.
"Ready, Mrs. Cullen?" He asked with a charming smile.
"Definitely!" I exclaimed and allowed him to close the door.
Once inside, I turned to waive goodbye to everyone that had gathered to send us off. When I noticed Ben waving goodbye, he shot me a wink, just as his hands made a different kind of wave. Just then, tiny snowflakes began to fall lightly from above. I smiled widely at how beautiful they looked. I kissed my fingers and mimicked that I was tossing the kiss his way. In return, like goof I knew he could be, he reached a hand out to catch it and then stuck it on his cheek. Angela who'd witnessed our little interaction just shook her head at us and laughed, waving goodbye. I was also so grateful to her, so I repeated the action to her, and she responded just as Ben had, while laughing the whole time.
"Hey, not fair Bella. What do I gotta do, to get in on that flying kiss action?" Emmett questioned loudly, making me and the others laugh.
"Seriously Bella, cutting me deep over here." Jasper joked as well.
That got the Packs and other guests to chime in, asking for farewell kisses as well. While laughing at all of them, I re-positioned myself and responded like any mature newlywed would… I began kissing my fingers and launching imaginary kisses to everyone, over and over. Then, I laughed wildly as I saw them all acting like they were catching them. I had such weirdos in my life, but I loved them all.
"Save some of those for me." Edward said beside me, and I turned back to look at him.
"You get all the best ones… Forever." I told him and he leaned over to capture me in a loving kiss.
Just like that, I was done fooling with the guests, and told him so.
"Get us out of here, husband." I told him with a smile.
"As you wish, my wife." He responded and began to drive quicker.
As he did, I noticed fireworks lighting like fountains from the ground along the sides of the car as Edward drove. The sight was beautiful and when I told Edward that, he told me I was beautiful. He did say it all the time, and this time like every other, I felt my cheeks warm with a blush.
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Edward POV
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I followed the GPS instructions and noticed we were headed in the direction of our house. Yet, the instructions asked me to pass the street I would normally turn into, for the Cullen house. After almost a mile, the GPS instructed me to turn and park along the tree line. I looked to Bella and noticed her excitement and curiosity were in full display.
I got out of the car and rushed to her side to open her door. I helped her out and she was practically vibrating with anticipation. I loved to see her so happy and giddy and promised to always find ways to make her feel this way. She handed me the envelope and I opened it, so we could read it together.
What a beautiful Bride and Groom you make!
A small little hike you'll have to take,
To find the surprise that's for all our sakes.
Groom, pick up your Bride - it's the thing to do.
Twinkle lights will brighten the way for you.
Go 2 miles west and from the heart, you'll find a gift.
Hold it close and hike a half mile north.
You'll find your gift made with love,
For you and the children, both.
What in the world could all this be about? - I wondered to myself. I looked to Bella as she was re-reading it. Then, she looked up at me expectantly.
"Well Groom, what are you waiting for? Pick me up and let's go already!" She demanded laughing.
I laughed and did as instructed. I ran us swiftly and cautiously, making sure I didn't jostle my precious cargo too much. Almost a mile into the woods while following the path that had been made for us, we came to little twinkle lights in the trees along the path. I was about to wonder how they'd managed to get power out in the middle of nowhere, until I saw several the solar paneled generators. Bella's giggles reminded me that we had somewhere to be, so I rushed a bit more.
Within moments, we were at the place where I needed to turn north. There, we found a small table topped with white linen. In the center of it, was a red heart shaped dish, containing a keychain with two keys.
"A gift from the heart." Bella echoed with a giggle.
I grabbed them and handed them to Bella in my arms. Neither one of us had any idea what was ahead but were very excited to find out. Almost half a mile later, I could make out what looked like a small cabin, which was lit up. I nodded in its direction for Bella to see.
As we broke though the tree line, I realized it was smaller than the Cullen house, but much bigger than your average cabin. I set Bella down as we approached, so we could look around. I was stuck wondering how I'd never seen this place before, when Bella's gasp got my attention. She had found a small note hanging from a small wooden mailbox, that I hadn't noticed was there. So, I went to read it as well.
Welcome, Mr. and Mrs. Cullen, to your new home!
You're only about a half mile from the Cullen house, in case you ever need us for anything. None of us will be home tonight, as we're sure you'll be plenty busy on your own. Your new home is stocked, full of anything you'll need. Don't worry about the "hows" or the "who's". We can talk about all of that later.
May your love be forever blessed and your futures always shine brightly. We love you both, see you in a couple of days.
"Edward, they got us a house?!" Bella exclaimed shocked, but it sounded like a question.
"No Bella. I believe they built us a house." I clarified, still very astonished that they'd managed everything they had, without me knowing or hearing anything.
I picked Bella up, surprising her, saying it's the thing to do, reminding her of Alice's prior note, which caused her to laugh. I slowly walked us up the steps of our home. She used one of the keys to unlock the door and I swung it open.
We both stood at the door, taking in, what seemed like a very warm and inviting home. I looked at Bella, just as she turned her beautiful eyes towards me.
"Welcome home, my beautiful wife." I told her, as I carried her over the threshold.
"It's always good to be home in your arms, husband." She replied and I knew I'd never tire of hearing her call me husband.
Without letting go of her, I kissed her deeply and poured all my love into our kiss. I followed the white rose petals on the ground, happy to discover our bedroom. I brought us to the bedside and let Bella stand. I moved behind her and I began to, carefully, unclip each tiny pin from her hair. I felt Bella relax against my chest, as she reached behind her, to pull me closer to her back. She was driving me crazy already and I hadn't even gotten started.
Once all her hair was free, I massaged her scalp for a few moments, causing her to moan at the sensation. The sound went straight below my waist as I recognized that first sound, as a sign of all the great things to come during our first night as husband and wife.
A/N: Songs Titles for the Lyrics in the last two chapters (in order):
1. A Thousand Years, by Christina Perri (as Bella walked down the aisle)
2. Flightless Bird, American Mouth (First dance for Edward/ Bella)
3. I loved Her First, version by Elliott Park (Bella danced with Charlie)
4. 4. The Way You Look Tonight, by Tony Bennett (danced by Carlisle/ Bella & Charlie/Leah)
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A/N: The next chapter is filled with more lemony escapades for the new Mr. and Mrs. Cullen. If it's not your kind of thing, you can skip to the next chapter, without missing of the story. I promise not to include any important story details, among the lemons.
Sorry if it sucks. As I've said previously, I've never written anything like this until this story.
