Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot of the Twilight Saga are the property of Stephanie Meyer. No copyright infringement is intended. The storyline of Hope Springs is mine.
HOPE SPRINGS
At the end of chapter 35 –
Later that night as they lay in each other's arms, Bella realized that Edward hadn't answered her question, "Babe?"
"Hmm?"
Bella turned over in the dark and tried to see Edward's expression, "You didn't say when you want to have children."
Edward opened his eyes, "That's because it depends on you, my love. If you were to tell me that you were pregnant right now, I would be the happiest man on this earth. I know that it's selfish of me, but I want everything with you right now. You have worked so hard to get your degree and you have a great job, so I'm not going to put any pressure on you to commit to starting a family."
He reached up and pulled Bella so close that their noses were almost touching, "when you feel that the time is right, you will tell me." He said before he kissed her soundly effectively ending their discussion for the moment. Edward had given Bella a lot to think about, but she pushed the thoughts and visions of bronze haired babies.
They had a wedding to get ready for first!
CHAPTER 36 – "Going to the chapel and we're…" (Or are we?)
=====HS=====
The rest of the week seemed to fly by. Garrett, Pete and the rest of the 'Phoenix family' arrived three days before the wedding, while Brandon and Megan Hale arrived just the morning before they said their nuptials.
There was a tense moment when Garrett and Peter called Edward to meet with him in private. Bella was afraid they were going to hurt him, but Esme just reassured her that this is what 'fathers' did and that she should be happy that they were looking out for her.
Edward was a little nervous as he sat in a corner of Alistair's, sipping on a beer.
Garrett, Peter and Tex made their way across the room and Edward felt sweat run down his spine.
"Edward," Garrett said, while Peter and Tex just stared blankly at him with their arms folded over their chests.
"Hi," Edward said as he stood and put his hand out. Garrett shook his hand before Tex growled quietly under his breath and he gripped Edward's hand until Edward felt his knees begin to give way from the pain.
"Tex! Knock it off!" Garrett barked.
Tex sneered at Edward and released his hand before he sat down.
Peter didn't take Edward's hand, instead he sat down and grinned at Edward and he was certain that Peter muttered something about 'pussy' under his breath.
Garrett ignored them both as he ordered three beers from Alistair.
"Are you and Bella all ready for Saturday?" Garrett asked.
Edward nodded, "Yeah, well our friends and my family have organized everything so we just really have to show up."
Tex sneered at Edward, "You're a lucky sonofabitch if we will let you walk down the aisle, you asshole!"
Edward swallowed loudly. He couldn't help it, Tex looked like he ate people for breakfast!
Peter laughed while Garrett snapped at them to shut up.
"Look, Edward, regardless of what these two say, I didn't come here to beat the tar out of you, even if we think that you may deserve it," he looked at his two companions in silent warning.
"Having said that, you did hurt Bella. Just because we don't live here, doesn't mean that we will not get onto a plane if there is ever a next time and we will beat the crap out of you. This is your first and final warning. That young woman is very precious to us and this is no less than Charlie would have done, had he still been alive."
Edward nodded. He could see that Garrett spoke the truth – if there was a 'next time', he would have some damage or broken bones.
Peter spoke up, "Yeah kid, don't forget, we are licensed to carry guns and they will never find the body."
Edward felt the blood drain from his face as he stared in Peter's ice cold glare. After a few tense seconds, Pete and Tex burst into laughter, "Just fuckin' with you, Kid. Don't worry about it."
Edward sagged in relief until Tex stopped laughing suddenly and looked at him, "Don't hurt her again or you will regret it." He said quietly.
Edward drained his beer with a shaky hand.
Even though he had vowed to Bella to always be honest with her, he knew that he would never forget the not so veiled threats of her self-appointed guardians.
If he was ever tempted to run roughshod over her feelings again, the look in Tex and Peter's eyes would be enough to deter him!
=====HS=====
Esme, Alice, Rosalie and Makenna ran the organizing of the wedding, reception and rehearsal with military precision, which thankfully left Edward and Bella with little to do except to give their opinion or nod in agreement.
Before Bella knew it she and Edward were arriving at 'La Bella Vita' to the sound of applause and catcalls.
The night was filled with laughter, jokes and touching speeches. Edward drove Bella to his parent's home, where she would be spending the night in his old bedroom with his mother, sisters and nieces, while he stayed with Emmett, Jasper, Carlisle and his nephews. The only male allowed in the Cullen farm house was Dylan, Alice and Jasper's toddler.
Edward walked her to the front door. They could hear the excited voices and laughter coming from inside the house. He turned Bella into his arms as he looped his arms around her and kissed her nose.
"Just one night, and then we will be together for the next month." Edward sighed.
Bella pressed closer, "I can't wait although I still think that it's mean for you not to tell me where we are going. How will I know what to pack?"
Edward chuckled as he tapped her nose with one finger, "Oh no you don't. We have been over this. Everything is arranged and packed – or at least it will be by tomorrow night. We are spending the night at the house, seeing as it will be too late to drive and then we will head to the airport on Sunday morning and all you need to bring is your passport." He whispered against her lips.
Bella wanted to act as if she was angry but truthfully, she was so excited that they were actually leaving the country that she really didn't care where they were going.
Just as Edward leaned forward to deepen their kiss, the front door opened and they jumped apart when they heard Esme's voice, "Edward Cullen! Unhand that poor girl! Unless you are performing a tonsillectomy, using a new technique!"
Edward scowled at his mother as she and his sisters peeped over her shoulder and cackled.
Bella tried to hide her laughter but when she heard Edward mumble something about 'The witches of Eastwick' she burst out laughing.
He huffed and pressed a quick peck to her cheek as he ran down the stairs to his car.
"Edward!" Bella's voice rang out.
He spun around but kept walking backwards, "Yeah?"
Bella bit her lower lip as her eyes shone with excitement, "See you tomorrow!"
Edward grinned, "Yeah, I'll be waiting with the preacher. Don't be late!"
Bella laughed as she hugged herself. She was getting married! "What if I am, Cullen?"
Edward stopped walking and put his hand over his heart, "Then I will wait for you, Isabella Swan."
They both ignored the comments and jibes as they stared at each other, their eyes talking volumes.
"You won't have to wait long at all, I'll be there." She said quietly.
Edward gave her a nod and a wink before he climbed into his car and drove away.
Bella stood staring at where he had stood, with a slopping grin that she knew was not going to stop anytime soon.
Beside her Esme wiped a stray tear off her cheek as she put an arm around her soon-to-be daughter, "Who knew that my son was so swoon worthy?" she said.
Bella giggled, "I know right? He really is, Essie, you have no idea of the mad skills that man has…"
Bree covered her ears and ran inside singing at the top of her voice, while Alice, Rosalie, Makenna and Megan laughed. Esme bit back her grin as she shook her head, "Oh my Darling, there is no doubt that you are meant to be a Cullen. Come on, we have a small party to get to!"
Bella looked at her as they made their way to the back of the house, "Party?"
Esme nodded, "After what happened at the stag party, your friends wanted to make sure that you received your gifts and so I invited them to come over for a couple of snacks and a pre-wedding glass of champagne. They will all be gone by ten o'clock because you will need your beauty sleep."
Bella spent the next hour and a half blushing wildly as she unwrapped all manner of intimate wear from her girl friends as they swapped stories and advice for the soon to be newlywed.
She had thought that she would never fall asleep, but surprisingly Bella sleep deeply and only woke up when Esme knocked lightly on her bedroom door after nine the next morning.
Bella was shocked that she had slept so long, but Esme assured her that there was nothing to do, except for her to eat the enormous breakfast that was put on her knees.
The morning passed swiftly, with people popping in and out of the room as they hurried to do one thing and another. Bella was surprisingly calm as she soaked in a fragrant bath after which she showered the oils off and washed and conditioned her hair. She had already visited the salon in town where Vicky, Jimmy's wife had plucked, waxed and buffed her legs, armpits and bikini area to within an inch of her life, and so all that was left to do was to smooth body lotion onto her skin before Vicky arrived to do her hair. Vicky, Jimmy and one other hairdresser had arrived at the Cullen home armed for anything with their curling irons, flat irons, curlers and hairdryers, not to mention the two suitcases of hair products and make up.
Finally the house was quiet. Only Esme, Kate, Garrett's wife and Bella remained at the house as Alice, Rosalie, Makenna, Bree and Angela had all left with the children for the church already.
As always, Alice's organizational skills had been faultless and she had arranged that the children be given lunch, had a place to rest and be entertained beforehand and they would only be dress at the last minute.
Bella had just slipped her dress on and Esme stood behind her checking every detail.
Bella knew that she should be feeling nervous and even slightly panicked but all she felt was an anxiety to get down that aisle and marry her man.
It was just after 3:30 p.m. when there was a soft knock on the door.
"Come in!" Bella said as her eyes met Esme's in the full-length three paneled mirror. Esme smiled fondly and patted her back reassuringly.
Carlisle opened the door and smiled at Bella, "Anyone here called for 'a dad' to escort them down the aisle?" he teased.
His teasing smile changed to one of awe as he stepped into the room and he got his first proper look at Bella.
"Oh my…" he said.
Bella frowned as she nervously patted her dress, "What?"
"You're beautiful…" Carlisle whispered almost reverently.
Bella beamed at him as she blushed, "You scared me! I thought that I had a smudge or something!"
Carlisle smiled down at her, "My son is going to pass out when he sees you, sweetheart."
Esme walked over to him and elbowed his side, "Do you have it?"
Carlisle nodded as he pulled a flat box from his tuxedo pocket and held it out to Bella, "This is for you Bella, from Esme and me. This is a gift that we have given each of our daughters on their wedding day and you are no exception."
Bella bit her lip as she opened the box and she recognized the breathtaking white and yellow gold cuff bracelet that was engraved with an unusual crafted design, that Esme, Alice and Rosalie all owned and seemed to wear most of the time.
"Oh my… this is too much!" Bella said as she stared at the design.
Esme smiled, "This is called a Wedding Claddagh Three Leaf Clover cuff. It has been a tradition in Carlisle's family for many generations that the wife receives a cuff like this on her wedding day. The symbolism of the hands is friendship, the heart is love and the crown is loyalty. The three-leaf clover on either side represents the Holy Trinity and good fortune. The cuff is worn on the left arm with the heart facing inward to symbolize that you are taken."
Bella bit her lip as Carlisle raised his eyebrows, silently asking her permission to put the cuff on her arm. Bella nodded and Carlisle slipped it over her slim wrist. He stepped back and smiled at her.
"There now, are you ready?"
Bella nodded again because she knew that she was likely to burst into tears if she opened her mouth. Earlier that morning, Kate had handed Bella a fragile looking hanky with a tiny blue flower embodied into the corner. She told Bella that it was her 'something old' and 'something blue' that had been a gift from her own grandmother on her wedding day, as she said because Bella was like a daughter to her and Garrett, that it was only right that she use it on her special day. Bella had spent a few minutes crying in the bathroom after that.
Emmett arrived to escort his mother and Kate to the church and just after they left a white limousine arrived at the front door.
Bella didn't remember ordering one at all but when she looked at Carlisle, he shrugged and told her that Tex had wanted to contribute something towards her special day.
The drive to the church was over quickly and Carlisle didn't seem to mind that Bella spent it staring out of the window.
They pulled up to the crowded church parking lot and Bella smiled when she saw her bride's maids standing just inside the church reception area.
"Ready, sweetheart?"
Carlisle's voice brought her out of her daze. Bella turned to him with wide, startled eyes.
"I'm getting married." She said as she clutched her fingers together.
Carlisle put a warm hand over hers and he waited patiently for her to look at him.
"I know that you are not my biological daughter, but I want you to know that Esme and I are very proud of the young woman that you have become, Isabella. Edward is a very blessed man."
At the mention of Edward's name Bella felt the butterflies that had been swarming in her stomach grow quiet.
She was marrying Edward. They were going to be together for the rest of their lives.
Bella leaned over and gently kissed Carlisle's cheek, "I don't really remember Charlie, but I would like to think that he was a wonderful a man as you are, Carlisle."
The driver was standing outside the door and he chose that moment to interrupt the moment as he opened it.
Carlisle got out of his side and walked around to help Bella get out.
Inside the church, Alice, Rosalie and Makenna fussed around Bella as they straightened her dress. Makenna handed her the pale pink and white bouquet that was casual and pretty. The flower girls looked absolutely precious in their dresses, which Bella had allowed each child to choose itself. Much to their mothers' chagrin, the dresses fitted the casual, yet almost vintage feel of the dresses that the bridesmaids had chosen. Whereas the bridesmaids' dresses were in neutral tones, each of the flowergirls had each chosen predominantly white dresses with touches of soft pink.
At last Alice nodded and Rosalie and Makenna opened the double wooden doors as the congregation rose to their feet and the opening sounds of "Bridal Chorus" from Wagner's Lohengrin.
Bella watched as Chelsea, Emma and Dale skipped and giggled down the aisle with Bree, Alice, Rosalie and Makenna behind them.
Bella didn't hear the music. She looked up and saw Edward standing at the top of the aisle. His face told her everything that she needed to know.
He loved her. He thought that she was the most beautiful woman that he had ever seen. He smiled as their eyes met and she could see the eagerness in them.
As they reached the wedding party, Carlisle paused and when Craig as the question "Who gives this woman in marriage?" he smiled proudly, "Esme and I do." He answered before he reached down and kissed her cheek.
"Be happy, Bella."
He placed her hand in Edward's and looked at his son, "Treat her well, Son."
Edward nodded, "I will."
As Edward took Bella's hand, he felt the tug that he always felt when he touched her. Minutes earlier he had not been able to believe his eyes as he caught a first glimpse of his bride.
Her dress hugged her body lovingly before it fell to the floor in soft folds. The veil was attached to her chignon and fell behind her to the floor. Her skin looked flawless as the strapless gown molded around her breasts. Edward noticed that she was wearing the Claddagh cuff that his parents had given her as well as the diamond stud earrings that he had given her as her birthday gift the night before.
The ceremony was kept fairly short as Edward and Bella had requested. They exchanged traditional wedding vows before Craig instructed them to take each other's hands.
"Bella and Edward wanted to make their own vows before they exchange their rings. Bella?"
There was no one else in the room except Edward at that moment. Bella stared deep into his bright green eyes as she began to speak the words that she had chosen.
"Edward, 'Entreat me not to leave you, or to return from following after you, for where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God. And where you die, I will die and there I will be buried. May the Lord do with me and more if anything but death parts you from me.' These words are from the book of Ruth in the Old Testament. I love you."
Edward had to clear his throat a couple of times before he was able to respond. He smiled down at Bella as his words rang out clear in the room, "I, Edward, take you, Isabella, to be my friend, my lover, the mother of my children and my wife. I will be yours in times of plenty and in times of want, in times of sickness and in times of health, in times of joy and in times of sorrow, in times of failure and in times of triumph. I promise to cherish and respect you, to care and protect you, to comfort and encourage you, and stay with you, for all eternity."
There was not a dry eye in the church as the couple went on to exchange their wedding rings and finally Craig smiled broadly as he announced, "Edward, you may kiss your bride!"
Edward huffed a loud, "Finally!" Before he swept Bella into his arms and kissed her while the church erupted in laughter and applause.
Mendelssohn's "Wedding March" began as the couple walked back down the aisle. Bella felt as if she was floating which was as much from Edward's heart stopping kiss, as it was from the excitement of getting married.
As they stepped into the sunshine Bella gasped.
In front of them stood Tex, Garrett, Peter, Vince, Mickey and Torres in their dress uniform forming a 'guard of honor' with their ceremonial swords crossed over their heads.
Bella could not stop the tears from falling as she and Edward walked beneath the ceremonial swords and she saw that all of the men looked as if they had shed some tears.
Carlisle and Esme were waiting at the end along with the other guests and she and Edward were hugged and kissed as they were passed from one person to the other.
They eventually reached the limo, with the rest of the bridal party and they climbed in amid much laughter.
The photographer met them at the main house and he began taking photos as they made their way to the meadow behind the house. They took so many photographs that Bella was beginning to get hungry before he stopped and told them that the photo session was over.
Alice and Rosalie went on to settle the children in the marquis while Bella and Edward walked on.
"Alone at last!" Edward said as he hugged Bella to his side.
She giggled, "Well, kind of alone if you can ignore the fact that there are about two hundred people waiting for us up there." She motioned to where they could just see the lights beginning to twinkle in the late afternoon.
Edward stopped walking and turned Bella to face him, "Are you happy, love?" he asked seriously.
Bella smiled, "More than I would ever have believed possible. Are you?"
Edward's eyes darkened, "Deliriously happy. I love you, Bella."
Their kiss was tender as it was sensual and when they parted, they stared at each other for a long time without talking.
Bella's stomach grumbled, making them laugh, "Come on, let's feed you, sweetheart."
When they reached the meadow, Bella once again gasped out loud.
The pretty open field had been transformed into a breathtaking open-air reception area.
Strings of bare bulbs Chris-crossed the meadow as jars filled with electric candles lit up the surrounding trees.
There were long rows of tables and chairs with a dance floor in the middle. Each table was decorated with smaller versions of Bella's bouquet and bows in white chiffon adorned the backs of chairs.
A special reed carpet had been laid to make walking on the grass easier as Edward led Bella over to the head table as Jacob Black, who had agreed to act as the master of ceremonies announced their arrival.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to present to you, Edward and Isabella Cullen!"
Bella felt a thrill at the sound of her new name. She was Bella Cullen!
They took their seats and Bella was relieved to see that the table had large platters of antipasto that was made up of tomato slices, mozzarella cheese, various cold cuts of meat and salamis as well as other vegetables.
Bottles of sparkling and still water were brought to the table and for a few minutes Edward and Bella chatted with the rest of the wedding party that was sitting at their table.
Eventually it was time for the speeches and Carlisle stood up to thank everyone for their hard work and to toast his son and bride.
Garrett had approached Bella a couple of days before and he had asked her if he could stand up in Charlie's place to give a 'father of the bride speech' and she had readily agreed.
Now Garrett stood up and pulled a sheet of paper from an envelope. He looked at Bella and explained that Charlie had once given him the letter 'just in case' and it was only to be opened in the event of his death, on Bella's wedding day if he was not there to make a speech. Bella moved closer to Edward and he put one arm around her shoulders.
"Our darling daughter Isabella,
If you are reading this then for some reason Daddy and I are not at your wedding and that can only mean that we have died, because only death will keep us from being with you on this very important day. I am so sorry for that, sweet girl. I know that you are a strong and courageous young woman, with a full and happy life. I am confident that you are marrying a man that is worthy of your love and respect.
If we were with you today, my beautiful girl, we would tell you to love your husband with all your heart, but don't forget who you are. You are Isabella Marie Swan and you come from a long line of strong and independent women. Give your heart over to loving and caring for your family, Isabella, so that your children will grow up ready to embrace their own future.
Do not be afraid to love, Sweet girl, because if he is worthy of your love, then he will give you more than enough love in return.
We love you and we are with you in spirit – always."
Garrett paused and he blew his nose unashamedly before he looked at Edward. "Edward, this is to you," he said.
"To our son-in-law from Charlie Swan,
Today, you are receiving the most precious gift that you will ever hold in your hands – my daughter's heart. Be gentle with her, but not so much that she walks all over you. Be kind to her every day. Love and honor her so that in the moments that you screw up (and you will, son, believe me!) she will not forget your love. Swan women are feisty, so be prepared to argue, but they love fiercely and forever. When she makes you so mad that you want to shake her (believe me, I know the feeling!), forgive her and then forgive her again.
Take care of my daughter – she is the very best part of her mother and I."
Garrett raised his glass and looked around, "To Isabella and Edward and to those who are here in spirit!"
For a few moments there was only the sounds of clinking glasses and sniffing. Bella smiled through her tears because in that moment she felt so close to her parents.
After a few minutes, Emmett and Jasper stood up and gave a combined best man speech which had everyone in fits of laughter, after which Alice and Rosalie gave their speech.
Jacob called for the first dance and Edward took Bella into his arms as the song that they had chosen played over the loud speakers.
"Somethin' in your eyes, makes me wanna lose myself
Makes me wanna lose myself, in your arms
There's somethin' in your voice, makes my heart beat fast
Hope this feeling lasts, the rest of my life"
Edward pressed his lips to Bella's forehead. He had never felt more complete in all his life.
"If you knew how lonely my life has been
And how long I've been so alone
And if you knew how I wanted someone to come along
And change my life the way you've done"
Bella felt the steady beat of her husband's heart beneath her fingers and she sighed with total content. She was home at last.
"It feels like home to me, it feels like home to me
It feels like I'm all the way back where I come from
It feels like home to me, it feels like home to me
It feels like I'm all the way back where I belong"
Edward tenderly traced Bella's delicate jaw as he stared into her eyes and he began to sing quietly.
"A window breaks, down a long, dark street Well, if you knew how much this moment means to me
And a siren wails in the night
But I'm alright, 'cause I have you here with me
And I can almost see, through the dark there is light
And how long I've waited for your touch
And if you knew how happy you are making me
I never thought that I'd love anyone so much"
Bella brushed her lips to his cheek as his whispered words warmed her soul.
"It feels like home to me, it feels like home to me
It feels like I'm all the way the back where I come from
It feels like home to me, it feels like home to me
It feels like I'm all the way back where I belong
It feels like I'm all the way back where I belong"
*Feels like home – lyrics by Chantal Kreviazuk
As the song came to a close, the couple kissed, and for the moment, the rest of the world faded away and all that was left was the two lovers on the dance floor.
The evening carried on with Bella and Edward dancing with many of the guests and each other in-between eating a delicious meal and sharing plenty of laughter. Bella loved her wedding reception, it was the perfect combination of informal party and wedding reception.
Bella and Edward had not been able to settle on a choice of cake and eventually Esme had asked them to trust her. She didn't disappoint; when the three tier white sponge, raspberry cream filled cake was carried out, Bella couldn't help but grin at her mother-in-law. White chocolate curls decorated the sides of the cake, while frosted fresh strawberries, blueberries, loganberries, mulberries and wild gooseberries cascaded over the side of the three tiers and onto the silver cake board, and Bella loved it. She loved the simplicity of the cake design and it was as delicious as it looked, which she discovered when she and Edward exchanged small pieces and then a sloppy kiss as they cut the cake.
The out of town guests were welcomed by the locals and Bella was surprised when Rosalie tapped her shoulder and told her that it was time to change.
Bella changed from her dress into the outfit that she was going to wear to travel to their honeymoon destination in.
She put on the comfortable loose fitting pants and top and she smiled as Esme handed her the light weight ballet flats.
Rosalie brushed her hair out of it's bun before Bella pulled it back into a high ponytail.
Alice handed Bella a matching clutch purse in the same color pewter as her shoes.
"You are ready! Come on, Edward is waiting." Makenna hurried into the room.
Bella frowned, "Wait! Where's my luggage?"
"In the car, silly!"
With that she was hurried out of the room and to the top of the staircase.
The wedding guests had formed a line from the stairs, out the front door and to the limousine that was waiting to take them to the airport.
Edward was waiting for her and he pulled her to his side.
His eyes sparkled with barely concealed excitement, "Ready Mrs. Cullen."
Bella giggled, "More than ready, Doctor Cullen!"
They made their way through the line amide kisses, hugs and well wishes.
Once they were in the car they turned to wave goodbye, before the driver picked up speed.
Bella leaned back against the seat and laid her head on Edward's shoulder with a small sigh.
"Are you tired?"
Bella shook her head, "Not really, it's just going to take some time to get used to, you know? We are married!" she looked down at her hand with her engagement and wedding rings on and then she looked at Edward's left hand as it rested on her thigh. His matching band shone in the dim light.
Bella turned to him with a smile, "So, are you going to tell me where we are going?"
Edward chuckled, "Okay, so you have been more than patient so I can tell you that I have booked a villa on Jumby Bay. It's on a private island off the main island of Antigua, in the Caribbean."
"A private villa? On a private island? Are you serious?"
Edward laughed harder, "Yes love, I am completely serious. We are going to be there for three weeks with plenty of time for travel. We are flying into Miami tonight and we will transfer to the island tomorrow. On our way home, we will spend three day in Miami before coming home."
Edward reached forward and Bella noticed the ice bucket for the first time. Edward opened the bottle of champagne and poured them each a glass.
He sat back and raised his glass to Bella, "Here is to you, my darling girl. Happy birthday."
The rest of the car ride went quickly as they talked about the wedding and their friends and Bella could not believe that two hours had passed as they pulled into the airport on the outskirts of Burlington.
The driver handed their bags off to an airport porter and he wished them a wonderful honeymoon. Edward and Bella made their way to the departure lounge and they only had time for a glass of champagne each before their flight was called.
They spent their time chatting quietly and dozing before landing in Miami.
From there they had just enough time to eat a quick breakfast before they flew to the breathtaking island resort known as Jumby Bay.
A golf cart whipped them off to their private villa and Bella was more than shocked as she stared up at the multistory white stucco house that overlooked a pristine private stretch of beach.
The porter opened the villa's doors and he carried in their luggage and took it to their room on the lower level he wished them a wonderful honeymoon and left quickly.
Edward stared down at Bella as she looked out over the sea.
"This is breathtaking." She whispered.
Edward nodded, "Yes, you are."
She looked up at him from under her lashes and Edward felt himself grow hard as her eyes sparkled and her cheeks turned pink.
In a swift movement he bent down and swept Bella into his arms. Between the two of them, they had not slept for more than a few hours in the last twelve hours, but at that moment neither were thinking about sleep.
Edward kicked the door closed and Bella only got a glimpse of cool stone floors and whitewashed walls as Edward descended to the lower floor quickly.
Bella was immediately conscious of a mild breeze that flowed through the room and the sound of water. She looked around her with interest and then her eyes widened in shock as Edward slid her to the floor.
"Oh Edward… this is unbelievable." She breathed.
The room was white and airy with soft accents from the scenery outside; pale blues, the softest greens and a smudge of sandy beige. It was walled on three sides by shutters that folded flat to bring the outdoors inside while the bed stood in the middle of the room resting against a half wall that housed the bathroom. The bed was enormous with great billows of netting stretching from the high ceiling to beyond the floor. The terracotta tiles under their feet added to the coolness of the room, while large folding shutters opened up the room to the outside with a small patio leading onto the beach. Bella spun around and looked out of the other shutters and gasped.
A private courtyard housed an outside, freestanding bath that was at least eight feet long and deep enough to take Bella up to her neck if filled to the top.
"Look at that!" Bella squealed and she didn't care that she sounded like her six year old niece!
This was amazing!
"Would you like to take a swim before dinner?" Edward asked.
Bella nodded, "That sounds great! I would love to wash the travel grim off, but I just need the bathroom quickly."
Edward nodded as he kicked off his sandals and pulled his shirt over his shoulders' in one swift movement.
"Okay, I'll see you out there." He nodded to the water as he unbuckled his cargo shorts.
Bella stared at him wide eyed, "What about your bathing costume?" she asked.
Edward looked at her and winked, "This is our private beach, Bella. There is no other access to it but through this house and I was assured that we would be given complete and utter privacy. Now, I will see you out there."
And with that he let his shorts and boxers fall to the floor as he stepped over them and walked to the waiting ocean.
Bella whimpered for a moment as she watched his taut ass move.
Yum, she thought and then giggled as she wiped her mouth. Nice, Bella!
She quickly undressed and washed her face in the adjoining bathroom. She snagged two enormous white bath sheets and after she wrapped one around herself, she walked outside.
The sand was like powder, it was so fine and soft. Bella could see Edward as he stood up and pushed his wet hair off his face. His back was towards her and Bella hung their towels over a palm tree before she walked slowly out to where he stood.
The water felt like silk as it flowed over her skin. Bella could feel a gentle breeze cooling her. The sun was setting, which turned the sea to a fiery orange on the horizon.
"Wow…" Bella said.
Edward smiled, "Yeah, having you here like this is completely – 'wow'" he said with an exaggerated lecherous grin.
Bella giggled as her body rocked against his gently.
Edward's hand held her hips against him and Bella could see that feral look in his eyes.
"Bella," he pulled her flush against him as his lips claimed her.
Their bodies swayed in time to the current as Edward deepened the kiss and their hands sought and found purchase on each other.
"Hold on," Edward muttered as Bella hitched one leg around his hips.
Bella whimpered as she pushed her hips against him, seeking and finding the most delicious friction.
"I need you" Bella whispered against his swollen lips.
Edward groaned and then he was lifting her as he braced his legs against the gentle movement of the water.
Bella cried out as she felt Edward fill her slowing, but with determination until his pelvis was flush against hers.
Bella wrapped her arms tightly around his neck and he began to move her up and down.
"I'm close, I'm sorry!" Edward growled out as he felt himself rushing towards a climax.
Once again they had decided not to have sex after they had come home from their night in Burlington and so, their sexual appetites had been teased and whipped into a frenzy and it now exploded around them.
Bella didn't want to ever move, but Edward's legs began to shake and so with a grumble, he lowered her gently into the water that was lapping over their waists.
They stood for a while, simply holding each other before they dived into the water and cooled off somewhat.
Bella thought that watching a dripping wet Edward, sweep his hair out of his eyes as droplets of water ran down his face and chest was the sexiest thing that she had ever seen.
They walked back to the beach and dried off quickly before they made their way back into their bedroom.
"Why don't you get into the shower, while I make sure that our dinner is on the way?" Edward asked.
Bella showered and washed her hair, taking time to smooth a wonderfully refreshing lemongrass and grapefruit scented body lotion over her skin before she realized that she hadn't brought any clothes into the room. She spotted a white sarong hanging on a hook, of course there wouldn't be thick robes in the tropics, she thought as she wrapped the gossamer material over her breasts and tied the two ends together.
She looked into the mirror but looked away quickly, instead of covering her body; the soft flimsy fabric merely highlighted her nakedness.
Bella shrugged, oh well, they were on their honeymoon, right?
She walked out of the bathroom and was immediately conscious that Edward was gaping at her.
Bella looked down at the pale blue leather set of luggage was stacked next to the brown luggage that Bella knew belonged to Edward at the end of the bed.
"Is this new?" she asked.
Edward nodded as he picked up an envelope that was sitting on the dresser, "That is from Em, Jasper, Alice and Rosalie for your birthday. Here is the card."
Bella was shocked that Edward's siblings had gifted her not only the three pieces of what was obviously expensive luggage, but also her 'trousseau' had been paid for by Carlisle and Esme.
Bella heard a whisper of clothing and her gifts were all but forgotten as she watched Edward unbutton his blue shirt before he discarded it onto a chair.
Their eyes met and Bella felt her body blush as his eyes raked over the almost see-through fabric, "What, um, what are you doing? Aren't we eating?" she whispered as she watched his eye grow dark with desire.
"They will leave it outside," he whispered.
Bella licked her lips.
He was beautiful.
Bella felt her mouth grow dry as she watched the plains of his back ripple as he moved. The tattoo of the griffin on his side undulated as if it was alive and Bella felt herself move and before she realized what she was doing, her hand reached up and traced the dark outline.
Edward hissed and stilled beneath the ministration of her soft hands. Bella pressed her lips to his back with a light touch. Her tongue darted out as she licked the warm skin and she smiled as she heard him moan.
He moved to turn around but Bella stopped him.
"Stand still." She whispered as her fingers traced the top of his dress pants.
Edward gritted his teeth as he did as she asked. His pushed his hands into his pockets as Bella nibbled and nipped at his skin. Wherever she touched, he burned with desire. The need that Bella created in him was stoked with every kiss, every caress.
Instead of hurrying, Bella instinctively slowed down as she moved behind him, gripping his ass in her palms.
When her hands left him suddenly Edward stayed in position as he listened to Bella quickly undressing and then her lips were back on him, kissing his biceps, massaging his shoulders.
She moved around him until she was standing in front of him and she smiled as she noticed that Edward's eyes were closed, his head thrown back. His breathing came in soft, shallow pants as he struggled to maintain control.
Bella reached up and gently kissed and sucked at the skin on his collar bone, making sure that she didn't touch anywhere else.
"Fuuuck," Edward exhales as he feels her warm lips kissing, sucking, nipping his skin, right were the pulse pounds at the base of his throat.
"Bella, I…" he began, but she stopped him, "Shhhh. Do you know how much I love you Edward Cullen? Do you know how sexy you are? How fuckable you are?" she whispered as she peppered his torso with kisses.
Edward hissed as her tongue flicked out and licked his hardened nipple.
"I want you," she said as she bit his nipple.
With a muttered curse, Edward snapped out of his lust induced fog and then he was gripping Bella around her waist and before she could think about his next move, she was sprawled across the bed and then he was there; right there, his dark eyes shining down at her as he braced himself over her.
"Put me inside you," he ordered.
Bella grew wetter at his words.
She felt a secret thrill every time he spoke dirty to her.
Her small hand closed around his hot girth.
Edward thought he was going to bite through his lip as Bella guided his cock to her entrance.
They both let out a shout as he entered her.
His fingers entwined with hers as he pushed their arms over her head.
"I love you, I love you, I love you," Edward peppered his words with kisses to her skin.
Bella whimpered as her body brought her closer, so much closer.
Every time she thought she could feel her orgasm approaching, Edward slowed them down; teasing her until they were slick with sweat and Bella was almost in tears with need.
"Please!" she begged as she clawed his shoulders.
Edward paused before he plowed into her, driving them both over the edge, "NOW! Bella!"
An hour later Edward had filled the outside bathtub and they were both enjoying eating their dinner of Fungee, a cornstarch mixture that was similar to Italian polenta which they enjoyed with small pots of pepper pot stew - a mix of salted beef and pork with squash, okra, eggplant, spinach, pumpkin, and cornmeal dumplings.
There was also a platter of fresh vegetables and fruits and a large pitcher of litchi and pineapple juice, with mint and lime.
They spent hours in the bath, feeding each other, slopping water all over the stone tiles as they made love again.
=====HS=====
Days passed in a haze of sunshine, warm sea water that was clear for miles, long lazy meals and making love.
Bella barely dressed in clothing, preferring to wear one of the seven bikinis' that had been packed for her with a sarong wrapped around her waist, if she wore anything at all.
Edward wore only board shorts, but more often than not, he only put shorts on when he let the cleaning staff or waiters that delivered their food inside.
The only clouds on the horizon were the dreams that Bella had been having. They had begun just before the wedding and every night thereafter Bella either woke up in a panic or she woke with tears on her cheeks. Every morning Edward would ask her what her dreams were about but Bella was scared that if she voiced them, her dreams would somehow come true.
They were always the same: she and Edward were laughing and joking together and then, nameless, faceless men would drag Edward away from her as they dragged him into the ocean, ignoring her screams and pleading they would tell her that she was always going to be alone and that Edward would never be hers again…
Night after night Edward would wake only to either hear Bella crying in the bathroom, or walking around their villa, checking the locks on the doors and shutters. He had asked her what was wrong the first few mornings but when he had seen that his questions upset her, he let it go. The nights that she cried were the worst and when she would crawl back into their bed, Edward would just pull her on top of his chest with her legs and arms curled around him and her face buried in his neck, like a little spider monkey. Those nights he would wait for a few minutes and pretend to wake up only to make love to her, which she reciprocated with a fervor that concerned him.
After the first ten days, Bella had become so used to waking up at anytime of the morning, only to eat, make love and swim or suntan that she was surprised when she woke up one morning to find the space next to her empty and cool.
"Edward?" she called as she pushed her hair off her shoulder and sat up, as one hand clutched at her wildly beating chest. She pushed the panic down as she told herself that her fears were unfounded.
The shutters that opened to the beach were open and the soft curtains fluttered in the breeze. Bella saw that Edward wasn't on the beach or in the water. She frowned as she swung her legs to the floor.
She picked up a dark blue sarong that was lying across the foot of the bed and quickly wrapped it around her breasts. She used the bathroom and washed her face before she wound her hair up into a messy bun and secured it with a clip, before she went in search of Edward.
He definitely wasn't outside and she walked upstairs only to find him on the phone.
He pulled her close and kissed her lips before he began talking again.
Bella didn't follow the one sided conversation as she walked into the small kitchen and began to pull out ingredients for French toast.
By the time that Edward was off the phone, Bella was just plating their breakfast.
She had made a pot of local coffee that they had fallen in love with and she put a small basket of fruit on the table.
"Good Morning, my Darling," Bella smiled as Edward kissed the side of her face.
"Morning, I didn't like waking up alone." She said as she put his plate down.
Edward smiled; he loved her cute pouty mouth. Was it wrong to think that it was so damn sexy?
"I'm sorry, but you were sleeping so soundly and I didn't want to wake you."
"Who were you talking to?"
Edward swallowed his bite of toast and grinned at her, "It's a surprise!"
"Edwaaaard, you know that I don't like surprises! Tell me." Bella whined.
Edward shook his head and chuckled, "You are so cute, but no. Now we have to hurry, we are leaving in forty minutes and we still need to pack."
Bella glared at him, "Pack? Where are we going? I thought we were here for three weeks?"
Edward wagged his finger at her, "Stop being so inquisitive. Yes, we are here for another two weeks, but I thought that we could take a little trip and see some more of the islands."
Bella felt excited as she quickly dressed in a short sundress, her bikini and a pair of flat sandals, while Edward quickly packed a bag for them. Bella loved the golden glow of their tans and the resort supplied the most wonderful locally made, completely natural skin products that make their skin feel soft and silky.
With a quick look around they were ready to go. Edward secured the shutters in their villa just as the driver arrived to take them to the waiting boat.
Bella clapped her hands with excitement when she saw the sleek white yacht, The Windjammer, waiting for them at the docks.
A middle aged couple was waiting for them on board, and Bella liked Mike and Terry Summerfield instantly.
Mike was in his late forties and Terry was perhaps a little younger. Both had tans and weathered skin with graying hair. Terry showed Bella to their bedroom quarters while Mike showed Edward the rest of the yacht.
"These are your quarters, Bella, this is your sitting room, your bedroom is through that door and the bathroom is just off that." Terry said with a smile to the man that she had introduced as Barney, who was their 'second in command and general 'go to' man'. Barney put their luggage in the bedroom and then excused himself.
Bella looked around the cabin. It was decorated in white with wooden accents and was overall cool and inviting.
When she saw the enormous bed, she couldn't help her blush as she imagined her and Edward making good use of the spaciousness.
She looked up to see Terry smiling at her, "You and your husband make a very beautiful couple, Bella and I'm sure that you will enjoy ample space in this room."
"Thank you." Bella felt her blush deepen at the sparkle in the older woman's eyes.
"Um, so where are we headed off to first?" Bella asked.
Terry smiled knowingly but she allowed the change of subject, "Why don't we go up on deck and Mike can go over the itinerary with you?"
Back on the deck, Bella found Edward and Mike sitting in the molded outdoor seating area, while the rest of the crew readied for their departure.
Mike smiled at them, "We are leaving within the next fifteen minutes and we are setting sail for Saint Martin. We should be there in about fourteen hours. Once we dock, we will go on shore and take you on a tour of the town. We depart after dinner this evening and tomorrow morning we will arrive in Saint Thomas, where we have booked you in to for a tour in the morning and then you will have the rest of the day to yourselves. From there we are headed to Martinique and then our last stop will be Saint Lucia before we bring you back in four days time."
Mike went on to tell them what the 'house safety rules' were and he showed them where the emergency equipment was kept. He explained that there was going to be plenty of time for swimming off the yacht and 'alone' time.
He lastly assured them that while they would be given as much privacy as possible to remember that they were still in 'public', unless they were parked in the few private coves that they would be stopping at for some 'down time.'
Bella blushed profusely at his less than subtle innuendo.
Bella felt the bubble of excitement burst as anxiety welled up inside her. She had never been on the ocean before and she had never, ever been sailing! Her dreams seemed more of a prediction in that moment and Bella could feel her heart begin to race.
Edward could feel Bella anxiety rolling off her in waves, and he quickly thanked his hosts and excused them while they got ready to depart.
He lifted Bella up and ignored her squeak of surprise as he positioned her to straddle his lap, so that they were almost nose to nose.
He ran his hands over her lightly stroking from her shoulders to her waist until he felt her relax slightly.
"What's wrong love? Are you scared?" he asked softly.
Bella bit her lip as her eyes darted around, thinking of what to say so that she didn't sound like a complete baby.
Edward put a finger under her chin and lifted it gently until Bella finally looked up at him. She sighed and put her hands on his shoulders.
"Talk to me, Sweetheart." He urged.
Bella gave a small shrug, "I don't know, I guess that I'm just scared, you know? I mean, what if something happens? What if something goes wrong and I lose you? I can swim and all but what if I can't get to you?" Bella stopped talking as her eyes flooded with sudden tears and she looked down at her lap, embarrassed.
Edward frowned, "Hey! Hey now! None of that look at me –" Edward admonished her tenderly as he wiped the few stray tears that had escaped. He loved the sun kissed glow on her cheeks and the adorable freckles that had come out of hiding and now he leaned forward and kissed the tip of her nose before he pulled back.
"Now, what's this all about?" he asked again.
Bella let out a sigh of frustration, "Nothing, it's just that I watched this movie with Rose and Emmett last week and there was this couple that went sailing in the Caribbean and pirates came and … and… I've had dreams…" she shrugged again as her voice faded.
Edward wanted to chuckle but he knew that Bella's fears of the unknown were real, he was also going to give Emmett a piece of his mind for letting her watch a movie like that! Sometimes he wondered where his parents had gotten Emmett from! Edward turned his attention to Bella, "My love; I can't promise that nothing will ever happen to me, but I can promise you that living in fear of something happening to either one of us is no way to live."
Bella pouted slightly and huffed. She knew that the wedding and the drama before that recently had caused her nightmares, and she had tried to tell herself that she was being silly, but they just seemed so real!
Edward looked at her closely, "Is this what has been keeping you up at night? Are these the dreams that you've been having that every time I ask you, you tell me that you don't remember?"
Bella nodded with a frown, "I know that I'm being silly," she began but Edward put a finger over her lips.
"You are not being silly at all, but we need to talk about this. One of the things that we need to work on is transparency and honesty. I can't help you or allay your fears if I have no idea what those fears are! Now, we can cancel this right now and just go back to the villa if you want."
Bella eyes grew large, "Really? You would do that for me?"
"Of course I would, love! This is our honeymoon and everything that I do or arrange is to make you happy and if you aren't happy then what is the point?"
They stared at each other for a moment before Bella let out a shaky breath, "I think that we can go, but could you do me a favor and wear a life jacket when you are on the deck if the boat's moving and you are going to stand on the side?"
After a moment Edward agreed as long as Bella promised to do the same. Mike made an appearance shortly afterwards to check that they were ready to leave. He and Terry had overheard some of their conversation and he quickly let Bella know that his staff of seven in total were all experience sailors and they were also able to secure the boat and arm themselves should anything untoward happen. He assured Bella that the route that they were sailing was the most popular and they would not be alone on the water, as patrol boats combed the route constantly.
For the next couple of hours Mike and Terry made sure to show Bella and Edward the safety features on the vessel and Mike pointed out the parole boats that they passed. He even allowed Bella to hear him radio in to their next port of call with their current coordinates and their estimated time of arrival so that she could see that they were safe.
Terry pointed out the weather forecast that they did each morning and evening and she also showed Bella where the emergency radio was situated.
Bella finally began to relax and when Edward suggested that they sunbathe on the private upper deck, she agreed.
"I'm sorry that I kept my fears from you," she murmured as Edward smoothed suntan lotion onto her bare back and shoulders after she had untied the string of her bikini top.
Edward leaned down and kissed her warm neck gently.
"I'm just glad that you told me, my love. I hated seeing you so upset without knowing what was going on."
He lay down next to her and she turned her face towards him.
"I love you so much, Edward and sometimes I wonder if it's just too good to be true. I'm scared that I don't deserve all of this happiness, you know?"
Edward reached out and stroked her cheek gently with one finger, "I know that I don't deserve you, Isabella, but I'm not questioning it. I refuse to live in fear. I would rather live each day to it's fullest potential with no regrets."
His eyes grew sad before he carried on speaking, "After Jenna first died, I remember how I was haunted by nightmares for about two years. I was afraid every single day. I was too afraid to do anything in case I did something wrong and my family would remember that I was the one to screw up."
He smiled as Bella smoothed his furrowed brow, "Then one day Jasper told me to stop living in fear. He said that if I let the fears control me, I would be wasting precious time and not really living at all."
Bella licked her lips, "Did that help?"
Edward stared at her wet, plump lips before he answered in a husky voice, "Yeah, and then you came along and I knew what I'd been allowed to live for. My soul was waiting for you."
Their eyes stared deeply into each other's before Edward broke off to stare once more at her lips.
With a groan he succumbed to the temptation.
"Isabella…" he ground out before his lips crashed to hers, sucking the very breath from her lungs.
Bella felt desire pulsate through her as his raspy tongue flicked over her lips, before they parted, giving Edward access to her warm mouth.
They spent long moments making out with Edward's hand slipping beneath the loose top as he teased her nipples to a point just below pain.
Edward heard the deliberately heavy sounds of someone coming upstairs and he rolled over to hide his very obvious, almost painful erection, while he flipped Bella onto her stomach so that her breasts were covered.
Gladwell, one of the kitchen staff poked his head over the ladder and announced shyly that lunch was served. He was relieved that he had not interrupted anything to intimate and he grinned with relief as he saw Edward scowl at him perusal of his pretty wife's rear end.
Lunch was an entertaining affair, with Terry and Mike being the perfect hosts. Mike's second and third in command, Barney and Tobias joined them for lunch and they kept the couple entertained with tales of their various trips.
Barney was a little older than Mike and he had lost his wife to cancer a few years before. Rather than let depression get him down, he had given his Florida home to his children and had contacted his old college friend, Mike, who immediately invited him to join their crew. His two children were in college and they encouraged him to 'spread his wings' return to his first love – sailing.
Tobias was in his twenties and hailed from the island of St. Lucia. His family home was on Trinidad and in his spare time, he played calypso cricket and charmed the ladies. He invited Edward and Bella to join the rest of the crew for a day and night at his parents 'compound' before they headed back to Antigua.
Terry laughed and said that he really did have a lady in every port and Bella could believe it as she was charmed by the man's disarming accent and cheeky smile.
After a languid lunch, Edward excused them, stating that they needed a 'nap'. He clasped Bella's hand tightly in his as he ushered her toward their stateroom, ignoring the knowing grins of their company.
Bella's cheeks were bright red as she almost tripped into their room.
"Wha…" she began but was spun around and found herself pressed against the room's cool interior wall.
"I need you," Edward growled as he covered her body with his.
"Edward, what's…" she began again as his lips nipped at her neck.
"Shhhh, I need to fuck you, baby." He whispered darkly.
Bella threw her arms around his neck, "What are you waiting for?" she countered.
Edward let out a bark of laughter as he lifted her and walked over to their bed.
Their light coverings disappeared in seconds and without a thought, he was pressing into her heat.
The feeling of the fast pace of the yacht, combined with the fact that they were not entirely alone, led to the feeling of recklessness and daring as they came together twice before falling into a deep sleep.
=====HS=====
"Are you okay?" Edward's quiet voice broke the silence of the night.
Bella turned away from the sight of the night sky and looked at him in the dim light of the room.
It was their last night in the Caribbean and Bella couldn't believe that almost a month had passed since their wedding day.
"Isabella?" he asked again sitting up as she turned from the French doors and walked over to the bed.
Bella had long since shed any inhibitions that she had about being naked most of the time and she knew that it was going to be difficult not to make every excuse to get naked back home.
She sighed as she climbed onto the bed, "I'm fine. I guess that I'm not tired or maybe I just don't want to waste time sleeping when this is our last night here. I love this place and I love how we have been here and well, I think that I'm dreading going home and all of this," she waved her arms, not caring that her breasts were jiggling and teasing Edward as he struggled to concentrate on her words, "behind."
Edward forced himself to focus on her words and he nodded with great effort and kept his eyes on hers, "Well, that's understandable, but you know, we don't have to sleep." He smirked with a glint in his eyes, "We could go for a," he looked at the clock quickly, "three a.m. swim and then we could soak in the outside tub, after which I'm sure that I could give you a 'massage' or something. We only leave here at eleven and our flight is at two so there is plenty of time. What do you say?"
Bella felt her nipples pucker and only then did she notice that Edward's errant fingers were plucking them gently, moving his devilish fingers from side to side.
She felt the familiar tingle in the pit of her stomach as she grinned at him, "Yeah? You think you can go without sleep, old man?"
She let out a shout of protest as Edward tackled her to the bed, "Old Man?" he growled as he noisily nipped and sucked on her neck, "We'll see who is walking funny tomorrow, Mrs. Cullen!"
Bella let out gales of laughter as she tried to catch her breath and dodge his nimble fingers and mouth, "You always walk kind of funny. I thought it was the caterpillar in your pants…"
Edward let out a howl of indignation as Bella tumbled off the bed and slipped through the open shutters, running towards the dark beach.
Just before her feet hit the water, two large hands scooped her up into strong arms and with a growl of triumph Bella was tossed surreptitiously into the warm water with a splash.
They splash and played in the ocean like two children until Edward caught her and their laughter died as their kisses became softer and needier.
Edward pressed his forehead against Bella's as she wrapped her legs around his hips and he walked back to their villa.
"You will always be my 'island girl', love. Even in Hope Springs." He said before he lowered her to the cool mat covered tiles.
=====HS=====
Carlisle and Esme had insisted on meeting the couple at the airport upon their arrival back in Vermont.
As Esme and Carlisle watched for their son and daughter-in-law, Esme spotted a familiar head of hair.
"Oh Carlisle – look at them!" she whispered excitedly.
Gone was the pale, waifish like girl that they had first met and even the ethereal looking beauty that had walked down the aisle only a month before.
In place of the fragile slip of a girl was one of the most breathtakingly beautiful women that they had ever seen. Bella's hair had been bleached in the sunlight and was streaked with twenty shades of browns and blondes. Her skin glowed with her suntan and a vitality that seemed to emanate from the man walking beside her. Her bare legs were tanned and bare and the purple and white short sarong skirt and purple tank top made her skin glow.
Edward looked much younger than his thirty-one years. His green eyes looked almost translucent; they shone so brightly in his smiling tanned face. His hair had also faded to various shades copper, penny-bronze and gold and his skin had tanned to a golden color but it was the look of pure joy and contentment on his face as he leaned down to whisper something in Bella's ear, which made her look up at him from under her lashes as she giggled.
Esme's heart felt as if it was going to burst, she was so happy to see the two children that she had fretted and worried over looking so very happy and in love.
Bella looked up at that moment and her face lit up even more as her eyes met Esme's "MOM!" she shouted across the small airport.
Esme opened her arms and she gathered her children to her.
"Welcome home, my loves."
Bella let out a sigh of contentment – they really were home.
A/N: Was it everything you thought it would be? Only a couple more chapters to go…
In other news: I went to see Breaking Dawn Part 2 last night and I have to say that it is my favorite movie of the series! I loved it so much and can't wait to see it again.
I have a couple of recommendations this week = yes I have been reading up a storm for the past little while, but I have come across some amazing stories:
We Move Through It: Life BY helliesworld
Edward and Bella are in their 30s, raising a family and moving through 'life'. Enjoying & hating each bump and turn in the journey. It is about the moments in life that can make or break us. *it will be amazing - trust me*
The Life Aquatic from coldplaywhore,
Summary: Life happens when you least expect it, and puts you on a course that
you never planned, into a future you never even imagined that you wanted. This
is the story of girl meets boy, meets boy... aka, his son. Rated M