So, none of this is mine. I wrote the first chapter for a contest and now, I'm expanding it. What I own … a condo and too many books. What I don't … Twilight and all its characters.

Up next will be Edward trying to help her. In reality, he's the only one who can. He's been in her shoes. Esme could help her, but it needs to be him. Plus, we're finally, FINALLY going to have the wedding and some citrusy time. It's been far too long, don't you think?

Chapter Twenty-Nine

EPOV

The room was dark, save for a fire lit in the fireplace and a dim light over an overstuffed chair. Bella was curled up, writing in her journal. It was Halloween, two and half months since my abduction and what should have been our wedding. Almost everyone, except for Bella and me, were at my parents' home for a Halloween party. Bella didn't feel like going and honestly, neither did I. I wanted to use this time to talk to Bella, to help her confront her demons. I pushed up my glasses, making my way into the living room. Bella stared into the fire, her brow furrowed, the pen tapping gently on her lips.

"Penny for your thoughts, dolce?" I asked, walking toward her. She jumped, looking back at me with a slight scowl. She resented her nickname, not at all feeling like the sweet girl I'd met over a year ago. "I see you writing, love."

"Don't call me dolce," she said, closing her journal and her voice taking on a cold edge.

"Why not?" I asked. "You are mia dolce." She sighed, leaning her head against the chair and curling into a tighter ball. "Bella, come with me."

"I'm comfortable here. I just want to be alone," she answered.

"Too bad, so sad," I said, taking her hand and pulling her up. I took her spot on the chair, curling her on my lap. "Every day, dolce, I see you. I hate that you're sad, empty. That's my fault." It will always be my fault.

"No, Edward, it's not," she answered, looking at me, but her eyes were dead. "It's Royce and Stephan's fault. Not yours. Never yours, baby." She wrinkled her nose. "I just hate feeling like this. You're alive. You're healing, but I can't shake …" Her eyes were welling with tears. "Why can't I stop seeing Royce? What I did to him?" She shuddered and tears spilled onto her pale cheeks.

"Would you change the outcome? Would you not kill him and have this war between the Bratva and the Consortium continue? My death?" I asked. She blushed, shaking her head and she let out a strangled sound. I held her closely, kissing her neck and inhaling deeply, allowing her scent to calm me. "Bella, you are still sweet, good, and perfect."

"I'm not," she scoffed, hastily wiping her cheeks.

"You are," I said, taking her chin and forcing her eyes to mine. "Bella, you are strong, beautiful and it was that strength that saved me. I would have died out there, without you." I kissed her and stood up. "Come with me, love."

"Where are we going?" she asked, confused.

"You'll see," I said, taking out a set of car keys. I threaded my fingers with hers, putting on a coat and we went out to my car, my Volvo. I helped her into the passenger seat, walking to the driver's side. Backing out of the garage, I made my way to the city, driving to what was once the center of the Bratva in Chicago. It was once a shining jewel, filled with powerful men, enslaved women and a deadly fighting ring. Now? It was a crumbling building, abandoned by the cowards left behind after word of Royce's death had reached the building.

"Why are we here?" she asked. "Wasn't this Royce's stronghold?"

"Yes, and we're here because I want you to see what you helped do," I said, taking out a gun from the glove compartment. Bella stiffened. "The Bratva have been demolished with no discernable leader, but there's still a threat. This is not a safe neighborhood." Her eyes were still on the gun, the gun that she'd given me for my birthday. I slid the gun into a holster on my belt and got out of the car. Opening the passenger side door, I held out my hand. Bella took it, her eyes wide. I threaded my fingers with hers and made my way toward the building.

"I'm surprised at how much this place has deteriorated," she said.

"Some of it was due to my men," I chuckled, pushing open the front door and the scent of body odor, rot and death filled my nose. Bella shuddered, her arms wrapping around my waist. "I may have been out of it with the injuries and my healing, but I was still in control of my men, my family. Emmett ran the business. He's still in charge of our business, venture capitalism, investing and real estate. I'm handling the illegal aspects of our business, but Jasper has been going in my stead since I'm still recuperating. I've never had a vacation. I'm taking this time, recuperating from my injuries, but also, wanting to spend time with you."

"And you take me this romantic location," Bella deadpanned, gesturing to the crumbling building.

I snickered, tugging her further into the building. We made our way past the fighting ring and up the stairs to where Royce had his office. The office had been emptied and the business that Royce had overseen was taken over by my family. I could see evidence of the massacre that happened here. Blood had been spilled and hastily cleaned. Bella sat down at the desk, her eyes narrowed at the information on the calendar. "He had it labeled on the calendar. 'Destroy Cullen Consortium.'" She looked next to the calendar, seeing a to-do list in Royce's handwriting. She blanched. "He was going to …"

"What, love?" I asked, moving to stand next to her. I saw a phone number and Bella's name written next to it. Underneath that there were three words. 'Get highest price.' "He was going sell you as a sex slave." I crouched in front of her, taking her shaking hands. "Do you regret shooting him?"

"No," she sneered. "I'm not a slave. I only … you … I only want to be with you." Her eyes slid shut, tears rolling down her cheeks. "It wouldn't have stopped."

"Royce was a monster, only thinking about his needs and not worrying about the consequences of his actions," I said. "As much as I hated Rosalie, she didn't deserve what he did to her. He only saw her as a way to get to me, consequences be damned. As a result, he broke her with his repeated rapes, sharing her with his colleagues and using her as an object." I took her face in my hands. "Things would have continued, Bella. More women would be …"

"He deserved it," Bella whispered.

"He more than deserved it, Bella. I know that you are beating yourself up for killing him, but you saw what he's capable of doing. What he did to Rosalie, what he did to me," I said. "What he would have done to you."

"How can I look at myself in the mirror? How can I think of myself as …?" she trailed off. "I'm a killer, Edward."

"So, am I," I breathed. "But, I'd kill anyone who would hurt you. I can't be without you. I love you and I just want you. I want you whole and happy. I miss your smile, your snarky comments and your light."

"My light?" she asked.

"You are my light, Bella. You made me … you bathed me in your light and I miss feeling that warmth from you," I explained. "You're here, but not here." I pressed her hand to my chest. I stared at her and she sniffled, tears falling down her pale cheeks. "You give me strength, Bella. You give me hope. I've never loved another as much as I love you."

"I'm sorry," she whispered. "I really am. I'm trying to …" There were a few gunshots. She whimpered. "Edward …"

"Let's get out of here," I said. I took her hand and led her back outside and into the car. I pulled away and made my way toward our condo in the city. As we drove, I saw a tattoo parlor. It looked pretty empty, but caught my attention. "Do you want to see …?"

"Tattoo parlor?" she said, her eyes wide. She bit her lip. "Yes, let's go." I parked the car and we went inside.

A tall man stood up, his hair messy and a dark brown. "Welcome to Chicago Ink. I'm Alec and this is my shop. What can I do for you?"

"I recently had an accident and had a tattoo forcibly removed," I shuddered. "I can't replace it … well, I can replace it, but not where it was originally located. I want to see some of your artwork."

"Where do you want your replacement tat?" Alec asked.

"Originally, my tattoo was on my back, but I think I want it on my arm," I said. I blinked over to Bella and twined my fingers with hers. "Or a swan on my chest, above my heart. I don't know. Let's see?"

"A romantic," Alec smiled. "What's your name, man?"

"My name is Edward and this is Bella, my fiancée," I said, shaking his hand. Bella stayed close to me, but shook his hand as well. "Do you have some pictures of your artwork?"

"Yeah, Edward," Alec nodded, handing me a large binder.

Bella and I sat down, perusing the pictures. Alec's style was a combination of realistic, with water color accents. Bella stopped him, seeing a picture of a swan. "That's pretty," she said. "Too feminine for you, but pretty."

"I think that would be nice here," I said, tracing down her ribcage, the opposite side of her Cullen tattoo.

"Alec would see my goodies," Bella quipped, her brow arched. "I thought they were just for you."

"They are, but I think I'm willing to …" I purred, smiling seductively. "I want you to get this." She bit her lip and nodded. "I still want to find something for me. That represents you, my love."

"I'm sorry, I shouldn't be listening, but I think this would be nice for you, Edward," Alec said, flipping the pages and finding another representation of a swan. "This wouldn't be good on your chest, but your calf, wrapping around your leg."

"I like it," Bella said.

"And this one, my girlfriend, Heidi, can put on your fiancée," Alec smiled. "Do you want to do this?" Bella and I shared a look and the light that had been dimming in her eyes started to twinkle. She smiled, nodding happily. "Excellent!"

BPOV

I gently put on the salve onto my new tattoo. Even while it was healing, I could see how beautiful it was. Edward came into the bathroom, his eyes immediately sought out the ink on my ribcage. "Do you need help with your tattoo?" he asked, his voice deep and husky.

"Please?" I whispered. I cupped my breasts, turning to the side and handing Edward the tube of salve. "I can't get the edges near my shoulder blades." He bent down, kissing my shoulder and carefully rubbing his fingers along my still-healing ink. His touch was tender and wholly innocent, but his eyes were swirling with desire. I licked my lips, staring into his eyes in the mirror. "Thank you, Edward."

He wiped his hands with a towel, sliding his arms around my waist and his lips found the hollow of my neck. "Anything to help you, dolce," he whispered. "I've missed touching your skin. It's so soft, baby." He blinked up at me, his eyes still dark and predatory. "I've missed this, us."

"You're still healing," I said, turning around and moving my arms around his neck. He groaned as he saw a glimpse of my bare breasts. "Perv … my eyes are up here."

"I know," he groaned. "But, seeing just a hint of your body and I'm horny as a teenager. I miss being inside you, baby."

I toyed with his hair, noticing more gray mixed in with the unruly, but soft bronze locks. "I miss our sexy times, too. But, Alice said that your back, while improved, is still very tender. Plus, your ribs …"

"Bella," he sighed, kissing me tenderly and handing me a t-shirt. I pulled it on, frowning and he tugged me into our bedroom. He sat down, pulling me onto his lap, straddling his hips. "Bella, look at me." I did and I blushed. "Why are you afraid of me?"

"I'm not afraid, Edward," I whispered, ducking my head and idly toying with his button-down.

"You are not afraid, but you refuse to look at me. You refuse to see the scar that mars my back," he said, hurt swirling in his evergreen gaze.

"They branded you," I hissed. "It's a cruel reminder of what you endured."

"What I survived, love," he said, unbuttoning his shirt, untucking it and leaving it open. I could see the scar where he'd been shot by his own father, making my heart clench and my stomach churn. "I survived because of you, Bella."

"Edward …" I cried.

"Bella, I love you. All of you," he said, shrugging out of his shirt. "Every inch of your pale skin, every one of your freckles, your scars and your imperfections." I shot him a look. He just smirked. "Not that there are many. You're so beautiful, dolce."

"As are you," I said, tracing his collarbone. "Even your scars, but I hate that you were tortured so." He looked at me, his eyes burning into mine. He stood up, bringing me with him. I gripped his biceps. "Edward …"

"I want you to see," he choked out. I nodded and he kissed me, his lips soft and pliant over mine. "I love you, dolce." He pressed his forehead to mine. With a harsh breath, he turned around and across his muscular back and shoulders was an ugly, nasty scar. I could see glimpses of what was once a vibrant tattoo. The skin was pink with new growth and smooth in the center, but ragged and discolored at the edges, where he'd had the infection.

"Does it hurt?" I asked, tears splashing down my cheeks. My stomach twisted. I reached up to touch his scar, but I pulled my hand back.

"Parts of it will always hurt," Edward said, looking over his shoulder. "Nerve damage, the doctors said. There's also a part that I'll never feel. Again, nerve damage." Silent tears continued falling from my eyes. I gently ran my finger along his shoulder blade. Goose flesh erupted along his skin and he shuddered.

"I'm sorry," I gasped.

"Please, don't. It felt good," he whispered. "Your touch always feels good."

"Do you remember?" I asked, tracing the edge of his burn. He shivered.

"I remember very little," he answered quietly, almost robotically. "I was beat up, tormented and tortured. Parts of my brain felt it was too much and I don't remember the pain of my skin being burned. The only memory I have is that smell. Burning skin? It's got a distinct scent and that I will never forget." He closed his eyes as I placed my hand on the center of his burned skin. I slid my arms around his waist and pressed my cheek against his slightly chilled skin. He barked out a cry, his hands clinging to mine.

"I'm sorry that …" I whispered.

"Don't apologize, love," he said, turning around and hugging me tightly. His voice was sad, broken and he clung to me. The power behind his embrace was almost painful, but he needed this. We both needed this. We were both broken and this was one step for us to finally heal, to move forward as a couple. He looked at me, tracing my features. "Don't ever apologize. This was not your fault."

"It wasn't yours either," I said, wiping his tears away. He took my hand, kissing my palm. "I love you, Edward. All of you, scars, freckles and imperfections."

"I have a lot of those," he quipped sadly. I traced the scar just below his collarbone. He ran his fingers along my cheek. "I miss you, my love. Mia dolce." I blinked up at him, staring into his eyes and seeing fire simmer behind them and the pleading in his voice.

"I do not want to hurt you," I said, my fingers dancing along his ribcage over his own ink. After seeing Alec's work on his calf, Edward went back the following day and got his Cullen Consortium tattoo, with water color aspects in the shape of the Italian flag over the top. It was beautiful, unique and wholly Edward. "Your injuries …"

"I'm healed," he said, his fingers dancing underneath my t-shirt. He kissed my forehead, pulling me closer and massaging his hands on my ass. "I need you, Bella. I want to love you." His lips moved from my forehead and he moaned as my fingers scraped over his nipples. "Let me love you."

"Yes, Edward," I whimpered as his mouth found my neck. "But …"

"No, buts," he growled, backing us up and pushing me toward our bed. "I just want you, writhing from my touch. I want to slide into your pussy, feeling every inch of you clenching around me, hot and wet. I want to taste you." He tore the t-shirt from my body, revealing my naked form. "Fuck, you're gorgeous." He kissed me, his lips crashing against mine. I moaned and thrust my fingers into his hair. His arms banded around me, lifting me onto the bed. I gasped when we fell onto the duvet cover, his hands gliding down my ribcage.

"Are you okay?" I asked. "Your ribs?"

"I'm fine," he said, his eyes sweeping over me, his gaze predatory. He crawled up my body, nipping at my skin. "I've missed this. I've missed you." His fingertips circled my nipples and he grinned crookedly. "Oh, we're going to have fun."

EPOV

Seeing Bella on the duvet cover, completely naked, save for her engagement ring and her new tattoos. My cock strained against my jeans and I wanted to sink deep within her. Only after I'd bring her pleasure, tasted her sweetness … and she truly was sweet. I lay next to her, tracing her pink lips. She whimpered, nibbling on my finger. Her eyes were black fire and she wanted this as much as I needed this. I wanted to bring her pleasure.

After almost three months of sadness, I needed to make her smile. I had to make her come.

I pressed a kiss to her lips, sliding my tongue into her mouth as my hand moved down her body, cupping her pert breasts. She whimpered, trying to move closer to me. I guided my hand down her midline, running my fingers along her hipbones. She was still far too thin. I could count her ribs and her hips jutted out from her pale skin. Regardless, she was beauty and perfection. I wanted to lavish her with affection, love and orgasms.

"Edward," she gasped, her fingers twisting on the duvet cover. I smiled, kissing her neck, moving down body. I wrapped my lips around breast, flicking her nipple. I continued moving down, nipping at her hips. She moaned, her legs clenching together. Oh, none of that. I'll help you, cara. I moved and spread her legs, seeing her swollen, pink and wet pussy. "Please …"

"Don't beg, baby. I'll make you feel so good," I growled. Kissing up her legs, I inhaled deeply. Her arousal was spilling from her and her scent went straight to my dick. Take your time. Make her feel amazing. I ran my tongue along her slit and she moaned, her voice guttural and primal. I kissed her sex like I kissed her mouth, deep and open. Bella was whimpering, her body rolling with my tongue, which slid in and out of her body. Her flavor, her movements, her sounds … she was driving me crazy. She chanted my name, tugging on my hair. I kept my mouth on her as she moved closer and closer to her release.

"Yes!" she shrieked as her hips jack knifed off the bed. I kept my mouth on her pussy, feeling the muscles clench against my tongue. She calmed and I sat back, unbuckling my belt and sliding my jeans off my body. Bella was panting heavily. I crawled up her body, naked as she. She blinked up at him, her eyes still fiery and needy. "Edward … I want to give you the same pleasure you gave me."

"Dolce," I breathed. "I want to be inside you when I come. If you touch me, I'll … I want to make love to you. I want to share your body. Please, dolce." She licked her lips, nodding and pulling my face to hers. Her tongue slid between my lips, tasting her essence on my mouth. I groaned, falling into the cradle of her legs. I pulled back, staring at her, her beauty. Grasping my cock, I ran it along her sex. She moaned. I slid the head of my cock just inside her. I looked at her, tears welling in her eyes. I wiped her cheek and pushed fully into her. "I love you, mia amore."

"My Edward," she said, her hands caressing my shoulders. I kissed her, rolling my hips and feeling her body around my cock. She was wet, tight and receptive. There was no space in between our bodies. We were connected as much as a couple could be. I never wanted to be away from her. I never felt as much love for another person as much as I loved my Bella. She hitched her legs over my hips and she whimpered. She stared at me, tears streaming down her cheeks.

This was beyond making love. It was our souls bonding, reconnecting and fortifying our love. We moved as one. We breathed as one. We loved as one. It was Bella's smile, her strength, her love that made my brief captivity bearable. And to think that I could have lost it …

Her hands moved from my shoulders and she wiped my cheeks. "Don't cry, capo," she whispered.

"I'm happy, cara," I breathed, pressing my lips to hers and losing myself in her body. I thrust deeper inside her, kissing her lips. Her muscles clenched around me. "Fuck, baby. I can feel you."

"I want you to come for me," she pleaded. "Come inside me, Edward. Make me yours again." I looped one of her legs over my arm and slid further into her. Our movements were unhurried and graceful. With a quiet gasp, Bella toes curled and I felt her body clenching around me. I kissed her, thrusting and lost myself in her. "Edward … please …"

"I'm there, my love," I said, crashing my lips against hers and spilling into her body. She clung to me. We broke apart and both of us had tears in our eyes. She smiled, her eyes glistening and the light returning to her. I ran my fingers down her cheeks and rolled us to the side. I was still within her, not wanting to break our connection. I felt at peace. "Bella …"

"Just hold me," she sniffled, her lower muscles clenching around me. She idly kissed my face, her soft caresses of her lips bringing us ever closer. I did just that, burying my nose into her hair, keeping her tiny body tucked to mine. "I love you, Edward. You are a good man, with a strong heart, and loyalty to his family. It's that strength that makes you a good leader."

"It's you who makes me a good leader," I said, wiping her tears away. "Your strength. Your love. Your light." She smiled, pressing a kiss to my jaw. "I will spend my life showing you how much I adore you. And my vow to you is that you never have to go through the rite of vengeance again."

"Just don't get abducted again and we're good," Bella quipped, but there was a sadness behind it.

"I promise," I said, kissing her tenderly. "I promise you, Mrs. Cullen."

"Not Mrs. Cullen," she giggled.

"Not yet, but you are mine, dolce," I growled and I showed her how much she was mine the rest of the day and well into the night.

BPOV

Christmas passed by in a flurry of celebrations and pre-wedding parties. We were inundated with presents, well-wishes and families vowing their allegiance to the Cullen Consortium. Several men gave me a look of respect, nodding in reverence to what I did to save Edward, save our family. Edward stood proud, wearing a smug grin and held me in his arms at each party, his hands never leaving my body. He was protective of me, but proud of the subtle fear in their eyes.

They knew what I was capable of and Edward made everyone aware of it with his possessive stance and knowing smiles.

There were a few older members of the family who were upset that Edward had been elevated to the role of the head of the family, as the capo, without being married and I overheard some unsavory comments about me in Italian from members of the family from Italy. I was called whore and gold-digger, but Edward's eyes flashed angrily. He spat at his distant cousins, saying that I was his savior and that if they continued with their underhanded comments, they wouldn't need their return tickets back to Italy.

That shut them up relatively quickly, making their faces blanch at the implications.

We had our rehearsal, which was pretty much unneeded since we'd already gone through this five months ago. I stood in front of pastor, holding Edward's hands and I wanted to be able to say my vows. From the swirling within Edward's eyes, behind his chic glasses, he felt the same way. After the rehearsal, we went to a casual Italian restaurant, owned by one of Edward's cousins. We rented out the whole restaurant and celebrated our upcoming nuptials. We ate too much food, and drank too much alcohol. Jasper drove us back to the condo. Esme did complain about us staying together, but Carlisle spoke to her about our fears and she relaxed.

Once upstairs, Edward carried me into our condo and we made love well into the night. After reconnecting that night when Edward showed me his scar, we'd been pretty insatiable, unable to keep our hands off each other. We tried to be chaste leading up to the wedding, but we lasted a weekend before we went to town on the kitchen island, Edward devouring my pussy for breakfast.

The next morning, Edward woke up, caressing my cheek. I smiled at him. He was dressed, wearing a pair of jeans and sweater. "Come back to bed, capo," I whispered.

"We got our night together, but I've been booted," he snickered. "Mom, Alice, Sue, Leah and Lauren are coming in an hour. I've set an alarm for you, dolce. You may want to get dressed." His hand slid underneath the blankets, running his fingers through my folds. "Are you ever not wet?"

"Only for you," I giggled, holding his hand there. He kissed me as he circled my clit with his fingers until I came. "Fuck …"

"Not tonight, Mrs. Cullen," he said, licking his fingers and groaning. "I'm going to make love to my wife." He kissed me again, his mouth lingering over mine. "I love you, mia amore."

"I love you more, capo," I breathed. "See you at the church. I'll be the one in white."

"And I'll be waiting for you with baited breath. No more delays," he whispered. He kissed me again and left me in our bed, warm, safe and happy, but there was an underlying fear that he was going to be hurt. However, I heard Jasper's voice in the hallway and I breathed easier.

I drifted back asleep and jumped awake when the alarm went off on the nightstand. I turned it off, stretching my body. I went to the bathroom, showering and brushing my teeth. Putting on Edward's robe, I padded to the kitchen. Esme was already there, making breakfast. The living room had been completely transformed into a salon. Sue was sitting next to Leah as she got her hair curled. Lauren was sitting next to her, getting her makeup applied. Alice was nibbling on some breakfast, her fingers splayed out. I giggled. "Get a manicure, Ali?"

"Yeah," she said. "Gia said they're good to go, but they still look wet!"

"It's a gel manicure, Alice. Once you put your hands in the UV box, your nails are done," laughed the manicurist. "Miss Bella, do you want your nails done now?"

"I need coffee first and some of what Esme is cooking," I said, sitting down at the counter. Esme turned, putting a plate in front of me, filled with blueberry pancakes, eggs, bacon and a large cup of coffee. I devoured my breakfast and hummed happily. "I need the recipe for the pancakes, Esme. They are delicious."

"They're Edward's favorite," Esme smiled. "I'll gladly give you the recipe. Now, are you okay? Ready for this?"

"I was ready five months ago," I sighed, sipping my coffee. Esme walked over to me, hugging me and she brushed my hair back. I shivered, the unpleasant ache of fear taking hold in my belly. I clung to the coffee mug and the world seemed to drift away, the quartz countertops swirled and I felt myself being moved.

Alice crouched in front of me, her face determined, wiping my cheeks. She took something and thrust it to my ear. "Talk, Edward," she said.

"Bella, baby, listen to my voice," he said.

"Need you," I choked out. "Where are you?"

"Bella, pull the phone away," he whispered. Alice moved the phone and I saw Edward on the screen of her iPhone. "I'm here, baby. I'm never going away." His eyes were wide and his cheeks were covered with tears. "Deep breaths, dolce." I watched him, breathing with him and calming down. Leah sat next to me, threading her fingers with mine. I blinked over to her. She wiped my cheeks. "Leah, can you hear me, sweetie?"

"Yes, Ed," she said, her voice sweet. "Hi, Ed!"

He chuckled, waving at her. I just clung to the phone. "Stay by my Bella. She loves you and she needs your love today. Keep her happy and safe for me until I get to be her husband. Can you do that for me, Leah?"

"Yeah, yeah," Leah nodded, hugging me. She put her head on my shoulder and squeezed my fingers.

"Bella, my beloved, look at me," he whispered. I blinked back to the iPhone. "I wish I could be there with you. I'm jumpy without you by my side, but soon we will be married. Look at your left hand, Bella." I did, seeing the beautiful engagement ring on my finger. "My ring, the ring I had designed for you will be on it soon, claiming you as my wife. Mia dolce, mia cara, mia amore."

"I can't wait," I croaked out. "I …"

"I know, my love," he smiled, pressing a kiss to his hand. "Let them spoil you. Let me spoil you. I'll see you in a few hours. I'll be in the monkey suit."

I laughed, wiping my nose. "Never, capo. You're far too handsome."

"Meh," he shrugged. "Love you, mia Bella."

"Love you more," I said, ending the call. I sat back and Leah still held my hand. "Thank you, Leah. You're so awesome."

"I know," she giggled, leaning her cheek against my shoulder.

"Humble, too," Sue laughed.

"Bella, do you want an anxiety pill?" Alice asked. I shook my head. "You sure? It's been a while since you've had a panic attack like that."

"Just a few nasty reminders about what could have happened," I said, tightening my hand around Leah's. "I'm sorry. This is a happy day and …"

"You're entitled to have some butterflies," Esme nodded.

"Butterflies, yes. But, not being able to breathe?" I sighed. "I'm just grateful my breakfast didn't make a reappearance." Everyone moved away and I just sat on the couch with Leah. She snuggled close to me and I kissed her forehead. "Thank you, Leah."

"Love my family," she said, hugging me. "Be happy, Bella."

"I will, Leah," I answered, squeezing her hand. We sat there for a few more moments, but I was called to get my hair done. Leah stuck with me like glue, prattling on about what she got for Christmas, her new house with 'Jay' and Mom and her new room. Listening to her talk calmed me and I was able to finally allow my heart to stop stammering. Sue eventually called Leah away and my makeup was applied along with a manicure on my fingers. When I was done, the photographer arrived as did Uncle Jimmy and Jacob. The latter held a bag, smiling warmly at me. "Is that for me?" I asked, pointing to the bag.

"The Boss wanted me to hand deliver it, Bella," he chuckled.

I got up and took the bag. Reaching inside, I felt the card first. Taking the bag, I ducked into the bedroom to open the present alone, not wanting an audience. I put the bag on the bed, opening the card first. It was a plain card, but with heavy cardstock and golden embossed initials swirling in the center. I ran my fingers over the embossed lettering, smiling tenderly and flipping it open.

To my beloved, on our wedding day,

This was a long time coming, Bella. I'm sorry about the delay, but I will always make that up to you. I will show you, every day, how much I love you. My forever and happily ever after began the moment I met you. You brought me happiness, joy and light in my dark, ugly world. You are smart, loving, caring and so very beautiful.

But, that is all icing on the cake, mia cara, you are my best friend and I feel so much more than love for you. You are truly my other half, my soul mate. I look forward to the rest of our lives, spending the rest of my days with you, Bella. I can't wait to see your belly swollen with our children. I can't wait to grow old with you, sharing our lives together.

To my beloved, on your wedding day …

Today is the first day of forever. We are getting our happily ever after.

Are you ready?

All my love,

Mobward

I giggled, reading his signature. "Oh, Edward," I snickered. I hugged the card to my chest before reaching into the bag. I pulled out a wooden box. I opened it, my eyes bugging out when I saw the contents of the box. "Holy shit!" Esme came in, dressed elegantly in a golden dress. "Esme … look!"

She came in, sitting down and gasped quietly. "Oh, my. Edward … my son does have exquisite taste," she breathed.

"Are they real?" I hissed, staring at the diamond and ruby jewelry. "I can't … I can't accept this."

"If I know my son, they're real and he would want you to have it, Bella," Esme smiled, caressing my cheek. "He loves you so much, my dear." She moved closer, taking the necklace out of the box. She fastened it around my neck and did the same with the bracelet. She kissed my forehead and grinned softly. "You just need to get dressed and you're almost ready."

"I'm beyond ready," I breathed. I hugged her and got up, putting on the earrings and ring. When I was done, I slipped into the bathroom, putting on my lacy panties, white thigh-highs and red, gold and white garter belt. Tugging on a white satin robe, I went out to the living room. My dress, in its finery and beauty was hanging on part of the window. The sun made its crystals twinkle. The photographer took pictures as I got dressed, laced into my gorgeous gown. I slid on the golden shoes that matched the jewelry I'd given my bridesmaids and my veil was put into my curled hair, along with the comb that Jimmy had saved for me. A large bouquet was pressed into my hand.

"Okay, something new is your dress. Old is your jewelry," Alice said. "Borrowed?"

"Lace handkerchief from my wedding dress," Esme said, handing me the swatch of lace. "What about blue?"

"My tattoo," I said, arching a brow. "I'm not showing that to you, but my swan tattoo has a lot of blue in it."

"Perfect!" Lauren sang. "Girl, you look beautiful. I do love the dress I designed for you." She reached into a bag, pulling out a bundle of fur. "It's freezing out there." She helped me put on the fur shrug, buttoning it together with a ruby and diamond brooch. She also handed matching fur shrugs to my bridesmaids. Sue fluffed my dress as we stood by the window, getting our pictures taken by the photographer. After pictures, we got into the pure white limousine, that was driven by Felix. I had no doubt that it was probably bullet-proof, bomb-proof.

We arrived at the church, taking pictures and smiling, waiting impatiently for the ceremony to begin. I could hear the crowd, the friends and family. I paced the length of the bride's room. I was anxious to see my husband. "Baby girl, you're going to pace a groove into the floor," Uncle Jimmy said, laughing quietly. He looked handsome, wearing his tuxedo and neatly cut hair. "Come with me."

"We can't," I whispered.

"We're not going into the church, but to another room. I want to talk to my niece," he said, guiding me into a smaller room, what appeared to be an office. "Alice said you had a panic attack this morning?"

I nodded. "I'm okay, though," I said. "Edward, Alice and Leah helped me."

"Leah is a sweet girl, stronger than I ever imagined," Uncle Jimmy smiled. "Reminds me a lot of a certain woman who's getting married today. When you both love, you love whole-heartedly." He sat down, grimacing. "I'm better. I don't need that damned cane, but with the cold, my leg hurts." I sat down next to him. He took my hand and rubbed his thumb over my knuckles. "I'm so proud of you, baby girl. You are so …" He smiled, his eyes watery. "I wish Charlie could be here to see you, Bells."

"I miss him," I sighed. "Do you think he would have approved of Edward? I mean, with his …?"

"I definitely think he would have approved of Edward. Despite his vocation, Edward is a good man, loyal, loving and he'd do anything for you," Uncle Jimmy said. "I know that everything has been harrowing this year, but I can see how much you adore Edward. I love him and I'm happy that you are … that you're getting your dream." He kissed my cheeks, wiping an errant tear away. "Now, we've got a long walk down the aisle. Are you ready?"

There was a quiet knock at the door and Alice poked her head inside. "The wedding planner is waiting for the bride. You guys ready?"

"More than ready," I said, standing up and gripping my bouquet. Alice beamed. Jimmy offered me his arm and we made our way to the atrium. Leah walked down the aisle first, on the arm of her brother, who was an usher, but walked her down the aisle while Anthony stood up for Edward, followed by Lauren who was on the arm of Jasper. Alice went last, walking down the aisle with Edward's brother, Emmett. They all looked so handsome, wearing sleek black tuxedos and red vests and ties. The doors closed and I stood next to my uncle, gripping his arm tightly. The wedding planner fluffed my dress and smiled at me. When the music changed, the two doors opened and the packed church stood up. I focused my attention to the floor. Heaven forbid I have a clumsy moment and face-plant in front of my future-husband.

As we got to the front, I blinked up and saw Edward. He was beautiful, wearing a perfectly cut tuxedo with a white vest and white tie. He had on red boutonniere with gold accents and baby's breath. His eyes were glimmering underneath his glasses and he smiled crookedly, his fingers itching to reach out to me. Jimmy kissed my cheek and gently placed my hand into Edward's waiting palm. I walked up to him, handing my bouquet to Alice and taking both of his hands.

To be honest, I don't remember what the priest said. His voice sounded like the teacher from The Peanuts cartoons. I remembered saying my vows and Edward repeating them to me, his eyes glistening. We exchanged rings and I ran my finger over Edward's platinum band, grinning widely knowing that we were finally married.

"By the powers vested in me, I now pronounce this man and this woman as husband and wife," said the priest. "You may now kiss the bride!"

Edward took my face, grinning crookedly. "Mrs. Cullen," he breathed before brushing his lips over mine. "My wife. We're married, dolce."

"Finally," I smiled, kissing him again. He slid his arms around my waist, lifting me up and kissing me, his tongue sliding into my mouth as our guests applauded. I giggled, blushing and looking out. "We probably shouldn't continue. That was not 'church tongue.'"

He rolled his eyes, putting me back onto the ground as the priest introduced us as Mr. and Mrs. Edward and Isabella Cullen. We walked down the aisle, grinning giddily as we made our way toward the exit. Pictures were taken and Edward held me close as snowflakes fell down, making the day seem even more magical, more perfect than it already was.

EPOV

After the ceremony, we spent a few hours taking photos at the church and then we moved to Millennium Park, taking photos in the snow. I should have been freezing cold, but I was so happy, too overjoyed that Bella was finally my wife. I called her Mrs. Cullen often. When Alice complained about not being able to feel her face, we got into the waiting trolley, driving to Navy Pier. We took photos inside the Crystal Garden before heading to a hospitality suite as a bridal party.

In the hospitality suite, the bridal party enjoyed treats, sweets and alcohol. The photographer took Bella and I out to Navy Pier, taking photos on the Ferris Wheel, overlooking the lake and inside the pier. When Bella began to shiver, we went to the hospitality suite and we shared a cup of coffee. "I don't want my new wife to get sick again."

"That would suck if I got pneumonia, again, while on our honeymoon," Bella quipped, snuggling closer to my body. "Where are we going? I never found out …"

"I'm still not telling you, dolce," I chuckled. "But, we are going to be gone for a long time. Being a wealthy man, the capo of the Cullen Consortium, I'm able to spoil my friends, my family and my beloved wife. Make up for lost time, Bella."

"Edward, you don't have to do anything. I know you're anxious to go back to work," Bella frowned.

"I'm anxious to start living my life with my wife," I said, caressing my fingers over the necklace nestled over her collarbones. "We had to put our lives on hold, cara, because of what happened. We're in a place where we can spread our wings a little bit. Jasper is comfortable with the inner dealings of the family while Emmett is running the company. Upon our return from our honeymoon, which is open-ended, I'll go back to work as the CEO and as the capo."

"Okay," Bella smiled, picking up my hand and kissing my wedding ring. "Okay." She looked at me, her espresso-colored eyes twinkling. "I love you, capo."

"Hmmm, love is too small a word, Bella," I said, pressing my forehead to hers. "Too small."

We sat in our little bubble until the wedding planner and Deanna said that the Crystal Ballroom was ready. We went to the ballroom, seeing it decorated with our red and golden décor, along with Christmas trees and foliage. More pictures were taken and our guests made their way inside. Bella and I stood in the receiving line, hugging and kissing everyone who'd made it to our rescheduled wedding. With each person, Bella was handed an envelope. She took them with a smile, but her eyes were swirling with confusion. During a break from family, I slid my arm around her waist. "What is it, dolce?"

"I understand wedding cards, but from everyone?" she whispered. "On top of the mountains of wedding gifts?"

"It's an Italian tradition," I chuckled. "When Emmett got married, he and Rosalie got almost thirty grand from these envelopes."

"What?" Bella squeaked.

"They put the money into a college fund for their future children," I shrugged. "Obviously, they didn't have children."

"What happened to the money?" she asked.

"As far as I know, I think Emmett had the money transferred to Rosalie in Italy to help with her recovery," I answered. I sighed, remembering the email I received from Marcus. He told me what he'd told my family and he yielded all of his control of his illicit affairs to me, to the Cullen Consortium. Marcus washed his hands of this life, preparing to live the remainder of his life in solitude and quiet in the vineyards of Italy. I kissed her neck as my cousins from Boca Raton came over to us, with hugs, kisses and yet another envelope.

An hour later, our guests were seated and we were all waiting outside of the Crystal Ballroom, waiting to be introduced. Leah had warmed up to Anthony and was able to enter with him. Music was pumping in the hall and we danced our way inside. I spun Bella, dipping her and kissing her lips before helping her into our seats at the head table. Dinner was delicious with perfectly paired wines and cocktails. Forks and utensils hit the edges of glasses and it gave me the opportunity to kiss my wife as often as possible.

Emmett gave his best man speech, embarrassing the hell out of me, but shared his love for both me and Bella. Alice stood up to give her speech and she was far more sentimental. Her respect for Bella was apparent as well as her love for her as a sister and dear, dear friend. What shocked us all was when my father stood up, taking the microphone from Alice. "I know that normally the father of the groom doesn't speak at these things, but I wanted to take a few moments to extend my congratulations to my oldest son and his beautiful bride, my new daughter." He walked over to the head table, taking Bella's hand. "Isabella Cullen is a strong, loving and amazing woman. She centers my son and I can see a true love match between the two of them. I'm blessed to have such a wonderful person by Edward's side and I pray that they truly have a happy life, forever and always. To Isabella and Edward." He held up his glass and everyone followed. "To love, to life and to family."

"To love," I whispered, kissing my wife. She smiled against my lips, tears streaking down her cheeks. I wiped her cheeks and held her close.

We finished our meal, cut the cake, minus the clichéd smashing of cake into our faces. I tenderly fed Bella and she looked at me hungrily, wishing like I was the cake and that she wanted to devour me. My dick twitched underneath the gabardine wool of my tuxedo. The DJ called us to the dance floor for our first dance as husband and wife. The distinct jazzy chords of Frank Sinatra's 'The Best is Yet to Come' came filtering over the speakers. Bella smiled and I began leading her around the dance floor. We swayed, not really doing much of dancing, but moving and having fun. Bella was not a dancer, by any stretch of the imagination. Holding her in my arms, swaying and kissing while pictures were taken, was nothing short of perfection.

After Bella danced with Jimmy and I danced with my mom, the dance floor opened up. The requisite dances commenced, from cheesy line dances, to slow romantic couple's dances, to everything in between. It was fun and I can't remember the last time I'd laughed or felt so happy.

"Alright folks, it's nearly that time," the DJ announced. "Champagne is being passed around and head out to the balcony for the count down. Let's bring in the new year and celebrate the marriage of Edward and Isabella Cullen!"

I helped Bella into her fur shrug as the temperatures had fallen. The music was pumping and we listened as the DJ counted down from thirty, closing out 2017 and ringing in 2018 with a bang! At the ten-point mark, everyone began to count down and at one, I pulled Bella into my arms, kissing her tenderly. "Happy New Year, Mrs. Cullen," I purred. "A new year, a new start and only happiness in our future, cara."

"I love you, capo," Bella breathed, snuggling in my arms. "But, as fun as this was, I want to make love to my hubby."

"Agreed," I growled, nibbling behind her ear. Speaking briefly with Jasper, he called Felix and he pulled the limo around. With hugs and kisses to my parents and Uncle Jimmy, Bella and I left, heading to the hotel. Felix had checked in for us, making sure that the room was secure and he stayed in the hotel. Jacob was also staying there, in an adjacent room with Felix.

"Boss, here's your key," said Felix. "Congratulations, to both of you."

He nodded and smiled warmly. I tucked the key into my pocket, shaking his hand and he pulled away. I threaded my finger with my wife and led her to the bank of elevators. Pressing the call button, I caged my wife. She blushed, biting her lip and idly toying with my lapels of my jacket. The door opened and Bella slid inside. Once the door closed, I punched the button for the top floor, crashing my lips to hers. She melted against me, clinging to my suit coat. We languidly kissed until the elevator opened. I swept her into my arms, carrying her to the suite.

Once inside, we slowly removed our clothing. When we were completely bare, save for our wedding rings, we came together, making love as a married couple. It was so much more, feeling her and loving her and knowing that we were forever bound. She was my love, mia cara, and mia dolce. With a gasp, she climaxed, her fingers digging into my shoulders. I still thrust into her, filling her with my own release. Soft kisses, languid caresses and quiet sighs, we cuddled together. Bella pressed her head to my chest, idly tracing circles on my belly. She giggled quietly.

"Way to belittle my masculinity, Bella," I snorted. "We make love and you laugh at me?"

"I'm not laughing at you," she said, kissing my jaw and brushing my messy hair back. She sat up, her naked body enticing me and I needed her again. She poured some champagne and handed me a glass. "I'm laughing because I'm 'officially' married to the mob." She sipped her own glass, a coy smile playing on her perfect features. "And I'm proud to be your wife. I love you, Mobward."

I rolled my eyes. I preferred her calling me capo to 'Mobward.' "Don't call me that," I grumbled. "I got shot and I'm covered in scars. I deserve a better nickname, cara."

She sipped her champagne, putting it onto the nightstand and straddling my hips. She giggled again, her smile perfect. "Nope, you'll always be Mobward. My Mobward," she purred, rolling her body over mine. Despite our recent love making, feeling her wet pussy rubbing over me, awakened my cock. She leaned forward, her lips barely caressing mine. "You married me, Edward. Deal with my silly nickname."

I twisted us and kissed her lips harshly, tasting her sweetness. "I'll show you how I'll deal with my silly nickname," I growled, sinking deep within her.

"Mobward …" she breathed.

"And don't you forget it, dolce," I purred.

A/N: And that's all she wrote. They're married and they got their happily ever after. We're going to have an epilogue and then the sequel will probably begin in the summer. Leave me some loving! :-)

Pictures of their wedding, Bella's dress and the jewelry are on my blog. You can find a link for that on my profile. You can also find me on Facebook: Tufano79's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation. Twitter, too: tufano79. Thank you for reading!