Forgive me for the lack of updates. This crazy Texas weather has kept me sick! Enjoy the next chapters and review! This is the full Atlanta chapter - I'm reposting with the correct thing :)

Chapter 36 | Atlanta Part 1

September 26, 2014

EPOV

"Do you have the keys to the house, son?" I checked my pocket and pulled it out shaking it in the air.

"What about Bella's birthday presents?" My mom asked as she stood next to my dad.

"I've already had them delivered to the house."

"That was a great idea...that way she won't accidentally see them." I nodded my head in agreement and hugged my parents.

"Thanks, you two! I hope she'll love it."

"She will my boy...enjoy yourselves and be safe," my dad said as he opened the door and I got in my car. After the shooting, he'd decided to take a year off of his role as Chief of Surgery. Instead, he wanted to dedicate his time by spending it with family and friends, volunteer work, traveling with my mother, teaching med school students and intensive therapy for his shoulder and chest. He was not only my father but one of my closest friends and the person I looked up to the most.

I backed out of the driveway and headed for Bella and Angela's home. We were headed to Atlanta, Georgia via a private jet and staying in a house my parent's owned. It was rarely used and they were thrilled to let us stay there for our special trip. I couldn't wait to spend 3 days alone with Bella and I planned a few surprises along the way. I pulled in their driveway and grasped the bouquet of red roses in my hand. I stood by the car as I saw the front door opening. Bella stepped out looking absolutely magnificent. Her hair was in waves and swept to the side. Her red lips matched her high heels and the short, black dress she was wearing was off the shoulder with a small amount of cleavage. In one motion, I pulled her in for a kiss and handed her the flowers.

"Are these for me? They are gorgeous!" She leaned down to smell them as Angela handed me her duffel bag and took the flowers from Bella.

"They'll be here when you get back. Have fun and I'll see you Sunday night. Love you, sis!"

"Thanks, Ang! Love you, too!" She gave her a hug and Angela winked in my direction knowing one of the surprises. She walked in the house and I turned to Bella.

"Baby...you are so stunning!" I exclaimed as she ran her hands down my chest.

"Thank you, Edward! You like?" I spun her around as we walked to the car.

"More like I love! You don't know how tempting you look tonight." She smirked as we drove in the direction of the private airport.

"The same goes for you, Mr. Cullen. Looking very debonair in that suit and tie."

"I'm just trying to get on your level, Ms. Swan! I turned on the music and we talked about our day. She told me about my mom taking her out for lunch but I already knew and acted as if I didn't know about it. I was happy that they were so close.

"I'm shocked you haven't asked where we're going!" I looked over at Bella as she sang along with the radio.

"Edward I learned early on not to ask questions and just enjoy the ride...unlike somebody else in this car." She giggled and I laughed because I was not one for surprises and yet I was always planning them.

"You got me on that! Isn't that kind of ironic, though?"

"It really is but hey, it makes you who you are." I turned on the street leading to our destination and she started looking around. Because of what happened last year, I felt it necessary to ask Bella first about riding on a plane. She was fine with it and was more than happy to replace a bad memory with a good one. What she thought was that we would be on a regular airplane with other passengers. But instead, we'd have a private ride with just the two of us.

"Uh, babe?" I tried not to smile as I sensed that she was starting to put two and two together.

"Yes, love?"

"This is not the DFW Airport."

"I'm glad you can see that. What an intelligent woman you are!" That earned me a slapped on the arm as we both chuckled.

"Hush! What are you up to, Edward Anthony Cullen?"

"To answer your questions, Isabella Marie Swan, you'll find out in a few hours!"

"Geez, that long?"

"Give or take, maybe. Stay right here... I'm going to hand the pilot our bags." I gave her a kiss and got out greeting the pilot.

"Edward, man it's great to see you again!"

"Likewise, Carrington! Is everything good to go?"

"Just as you requested." We had gone to school together and he was more than happy to help me out. I went back to the car to get Bella.

"Carrington, I'd like you to meet my girlfriend, Bella Swan. Bella, this is one of my classmates and our pilot for this weekend, Carrington."

"It's great to meet you, Carrington!"

"The pleasure is all mine. Edward told me you were beautiful but seeing finally seeing you in person he's right." She blushed and thanked him as he gave us instructions and we got on. There was a bottle of sparkling grace juice and Bella's first gift. I popped the cork and filled two glasses.

"To another year of your life and many more of us being together. I love you!"

"I love you too! Cheers!" I picked the box from the seat and handed it to Bella. She opened it and smiled.

"Awe, it's the charm I've been looking at! Thanks, babe!" It was the letter B encrusted in diamonds.

"You're welcome! We can have it put on when we get back." We took our seats and continued to sip on our drinks. She was beaming, so happy, and seemed at ease. We talked and laughed as the plane started to descend. She looked out the window and took a guess about where we were.

"Nope, you'll find out shortly." We stepped off and thanked Carrington as we walked toward the rental car.

"I'll be back for pick-up on Sunday!" We waved and then took off to the house which wasn't too far.

"There's an envelope on the glove compartment. Can you pull that out for me and read it?"

"Sure!" She reached in and found what I asked for.

"Bella, we hope you enjoy this gift from us. Happy Anniversary to you and Edward and have a great birthday! We love you! Mom and Dad!" She put the note in her lap.

"That's is so sweet!" She opened the second envelope and found the tickets to the aquarium.

"I've never had a chance to go! This is great." I snickered since she assumed it was for the one in Dallas.

"Bella, did you see where the aquarium is at?"

"No need, silly! It's the one in Dallas."

"I think you might want to check again." She lifted one of the tickets up and her eyes scanned it.

"This is for the Georgia Aquarium...why..." I laughed when she gasped as a parked in the driveway.

"Are we in Atlanta?!"

"Welcome to the ATL, Bella!"

"Oh my gosh! I've always wanted to come here. You remembered..."

"I always do!" Come on in, I want to show you around the house." I grabbed our bags them by the front door as we walked in.

"Who owns the house, Edward?"

"My parents...they rarely get to come here and were more than happy to let us have it for the weekend."

"It's so pretty!" I pointed out the living room, kitchen, 5 bedrooms and then we walked outside. The backyard was lit up with thousands of hanging lights.

"Take a walk with me?"

"I would love that." I took her hand as we walked down the moonlight path. Her skin seemed to glow as we walked and I kissed her neck.

"Can you believe we've been together for 2 years, Edward?"

I laughed. "Most days I can't. I feel like I've known you my entire life. The past two years even with everything that has happened, have been the best of my existence."

"They've been the best of mine in so many ways. I'm the happiest woman in the world." My heart soared at her words knowing that I was doing something right. As long as she was happy, I was too. I knew Lindsay was behind us and wanted to give Bella one more surprise. I kissed her hand as I stooped.

"Is everything okay?"

"Perfect, perfect. I know you love pictures and so do I. I have a little gift."

"Edward! I told you to keep it simple!"

"I am baby, don't worry. Hey, Lindsay...can you come out?" Bella's eyes got wide as she looked around. The photographer came out and Bella looked at me.

"What is going on?"

"Bella, this is Lindsay Gobert. Lindsey, this is Bella, my girlfriend."

"So nice to meet you, Bella! I've gotten some great pictures so far."

"Pictures?"

"That's right!"

"Bella, Lindsay's one of Atlanta's top photographers. She's been photographing us since we got to the house."

"I don't know what to say! This is too much!" I carefully wiped her eyes and wrapped my arm around her waist.

"It's a gift from Marcus, Amanda, and the kids. I hope you like it."

"I love it! Can we see the pictures?"

"Absolutely!" said Amanda as she turned her camera over. In the first picture, we had just walked outside...hands intertwined and we were smiling. You could feel the excitement in our eyes and the love in our body language. She flipped through more, each echoing different feelings. The last one made me both Bella and I gasp.

"Lindsay, these are stunning." Bella voices as we looked. It's was just before I called Lindsay out. Bella and I were facing each other and my hands were around her waist as hers came around my neck. We were locked in a kiss and the night sky was shining through.

"Are you two ready for the real photo shoot?" I looked at Bella who was smiling.

"Yes!"

"Great! I'll set up a few poses but I really want y'all to act like I'm not even here. Just focus on each other and the surroundings." She has us walk over to the gazebo and we took it from there. I sang is Bella's ear as we danced. We laughed and smiled as we sat down and Lindsay snapped away. We moved down the street stopping to take pictures right in the middle.

"That's a wrap! What a beautiful couple."

"Thanks so much for doing this for us," I said as she showed us some of the pictures.

"Yes, thank you, Lindsay!"

"Anytime, it was my pleasure. I'll have them done and on a gallery in a few weeks. Feel free to contact me with any questions." She left and we walked back in the house. The lights were dim as I lead her to the table set up for us.

"Babe, when did you do all this?!"

"Leilani, the housekeeper set it up and Todd Samuelsson who's a chef here in Atlanta made the food. Is this fine?"

"Edward, it's more than fine...it's amazing!" I lifted the lids off our plates and we dug in. She let out this little whimper and I almost lost it right there. It's was no secret, no surprise that we wanted each other...and every part within me ache to be with her in that way. It was something we talked about from the beginning and we were going to hold ourselves until our wedding night.

"So, what's the plan for the rest of the night?" She smiled at me as she pushed back her empty plate.

"That's up to you, Bella...this whole weekend is for you." She blushed and came over to my side.

"Don't leave yourself out. It's for you as well. I'm going to get comfortable and then how about we take it from there?"

"Sounds like a plan, love." I watched her walk up the stairs. I cleared the table, set out a blanket in the living room, grabbed our dessert and then quickly went to change. Bella was already sitting on the blanket and picking out some music. Something caught my eye and I noticed she was wearing a shirt I'd never seen before. On the back was my initials with a heart underneath that was sparkly. I was floored. There was nothing like seeing her wear my name. I sat across from her and pulled her in for a kiss.

"Baby you're so breathtaking. Where did you get that shirt from?"

"You're the breathtaking one! I got it made by a friend. I wanted to surprise you with it."

"Well, I love it. Think I could get one made with yours?" She started laughing but I was dead serious.

"Already done!" Here, check it out!" She handed me a box and I quickly tore through it. The shirt was white, the letters in black and with her monogram but it was made more for a man.

"Thank you, sweetheart. This is too cool! I putting it on right now."

"You're welcome! It looks great on you." I stood up and give her a twirl. She laughed as I gave her a kiss. I took one of the chocolate covered strawberries and feed it to her. She never took her eyes off of me.

"Mmm, that is so good!" She took the rest from my hand and feed it to me.

"Oh my, it is! Chocolate and strawberries... what a great combo." We went back and forth feeding and laughing and sneaking kisses in between. We saved the rest for tomorrow and lit the candles I placed around us and turned off the lights. The living room was bathed in a warm glow and I couldn't have pictured it any better.

"I have one more surprise for you." Her eyes were on me and filled with so much love and wonder. I picked up my guitar from the chair and strummed a few notes.

"Are you going to play for me? I've missed that."

"I know and that's why I wanted to do this. I've been working on this song for a long time, trying to get it right and I finally mastered it. So, here's to us...happy anniversary, baby." She leaned over, kissed me and smiled.

"Happy two years, handsome." I strummed the opening chords and let the music flow.

"I'm giving up
This whole lie, this whole me
Call it out like a family
Instead I bide my time, get a ride
Until the rubber leaves the road

You said don't lie so I made the truth
Seemed like a lie to even you
Control your fear. It's clear
That you do not know where you're going to

So, don't you worry
You'll be my resolution
Characters of no illusion
You'll be my resolution

One month down and it's in sight
oh, I'm guaranteed to lose my mind
It's dangerous to speak and sigh
You might know what I'm trying to hide

So from the cradle to quarter age
oh, I bought the book but didn't flip the page
oh, readiness is near. We steer
As far away from the coming of days

So, don't you worry
You'll be my resolution
Characters of no illusion
You'll be my resolution
Characters of no illusion
You'll be my resolution

Turn around, put it down and see
That this is really the place to be.
I'm not you, nor you me
But we're both moving steady."

By the end, I somehow managed to finish even with the tears in my eyes and Bella is no better off. I pulled her into my lap as we kissed as my hands caress her arms.

"That was just so beautiful! I love you so much. Thank you for loving me through it all."

"I do it all for you. I love you more than anything. Thank you for giving me a second chance." I blew out all the candles leaving the only light from the outside. She held out her hand but I surprised her by picking her up in my arms. She let out a squeal.

"What are you doing?" She whispered yelled.

"Taking the fun upstairs! Our night isn't over yet."

Our "night-cap" ended with a movie, conversation, and a ton of kisses that went well into the morning. Last night was one of the best I've ever experienced. We finally fell asleep around 4 and now we were just getting ready for the day. It's was noon and I was dressed and ready to head to the Georgia Aquarium. I wore a cute romper that I'd been having for a while with sandals, put my hair in a braid and popped on my Pandora bracelet. When I walked down, Edward stood up and took my hand. He looked delicious in a white, V-neck shirt and dark wash jeans.

"Oooo, you look good, babe." He smirked and didn't want to accept it.

"Nah uh, Bella...you are so pretty." I reached up to give him a kiss on the cheek and we walked outside to the car. Like the Southern gentleman he was, Edward never let me open the car door or any door for that matter. I got in and programmed the addresses we needed for today. After the aquarium, we were headed to the botanical gardens and then a late dinner.

"Last night was amazing, Edward. Thank you again for everything...the plane ride, the photo shoot, getting our friends and family involved, the dinner and dessert, and you singing to me and playing the guitar. I loved every single moment." He took my hand and kissed it as we drove down the street.

"You are welcome, Bella! It really was a honor...yesterday was one for the books."

"Definitely! A day to remember."

"Did you see any special exhibits that you wanted to make sure we stop at?"

"Um, yeah... The Sea Lion one sounds fun! Did you know it's the largest aquarium in the US?"

"Wow, really?"

"Yeah...I doubt we'll be able to see everything so I would love to come back at some point."

"Duly noted... that can be arranged." The aquarium came into view and it was massive! Edward pulled in, parked and we made our way inside and to the booth where an older woman was.

"Hello, my name is Stacy and welcome to the Georgia Aquarium, home to thousands of animals and wildlife! If you have any questions, find any one of us in the blue vests and we'll be more than happy to assist you."

"Could you point us in the direction of the sea lion exhibit?" Edward asked as I handed over the tickets.

"Of course! Just head right down the hall and it's the second on the left."

"Thank you!"

"Anytime, have a great day!" We followed her instructions and made our way to the exhibit. It's was packed with people and somehow me managed to find seats towards the front. I took some pictures before the sea lions came out since that was allowed. The show started out with a bang when the sea lions jumped from the tower into the pools. There was stunts and songs and we had a blast. Our row was kicked to come up and participate and it was such a neat experience. Edward kissed my head as his arm wrapped around my waist.

"Did you enjoy that, Bella? It was awesome!"

"Yes! And we got to go up on stage. Glad we went!"

"I'm happy you picked it out." The rest of our time at the zoo was spent visiting the various animals, another show, the feeding experience and taking a train ride around the park.

"Babe, look at those two meerkats right there." He pointed and I noticed what he was talking about. The two meerkats were facing each other and it looked like they were having a heated argument. Another was standing off to the side. The whole thing reminded me of an episode of Discovery Channel's Meerkat Manor.

"I bet those two ladies are fighting over him. My bets on the smaller one...she isn't backing down." I let out a giggle which turned into a full blown laugh. The couple on the side of us erupted into laughter too since they must have heard what he said.

"You're going to get us kicked out of here!" I teased as he continued to give his commentary over the unfolding drama.

"I'll just put my charm on them and problem solved."

"Oh is that so?"

"It sure is. I got the magic touch, baby." I just smirked as we came to a stop and walked over to The Botanical Gardens that were across the street. When we entered, I was immediately flooded with the smells of thousands upon thousands of flowers and plants.

"Oh Edward, this is so beautiful!" We walked along the pathway of the luscious space and I snapped a few pictures. His hand never left mine and he leaned over to give me a kiss. It was sweet and chaste.

"It sure is, Bells. I think it may rival Esme's garden", he laughed as we kept walking.

"I might start one. I'll have to talk to her for some advice."

"Really? That's great, babe! She would love to share that with you. It'll be another way to bound."

We stayed for another hour until we both were wanting some snacks and a nap before our dinner.

"Where do you see yourself and us in 5 years?" Edward asked as we laid outside watching the stars in our pajamas. Our dinner was awesome and I was able to surprise him with the anniversary gifts I'd gotten him. He loved his new running shoes, watch and a homemade coupon booklet that I made. It was filled with different options that Edward could use. I turned my body so that I could curl up to his side.

"I see myself going back to school so I can get my master's degree. I want to open my open business one day. I want to learn Spanish and become fluent in it. I want to go on a mission's trip through church and give back more. For us...a life filled with happiness and adventure. In five years, I see the two of us more in love than ever and of course married. I picture traveling, dates, disagreements, makeups, growing closer to God, family, and friends, and starting a family of our own. That's what I see in my mind and dreams, Edward." He kissed the top of my head and pulled me closer.

"I'll be there right with you every step of the way. I'll help you study, help with the opening of your business, travel with you anywhere, give you the wedding you deserve, continue to have date nights every week, and be the best father I can be. Whatever it takes, sweetheart."

I looked at this man who I loved with all my being and smiled. Every day I thanked God for who he blessed me with.

"I won't ever doubt that! I know you'll keep your word. Tell me what you want in 5 years."

"First thing would be to learn a new instrument. I want to expand my horizons and add something to what I already know."

"Do you have any ideas for which one?"

"The drums! I would be a triple threat!" We both chuckled as he continued his list.

"Then, I would love for you to teach me American Sign Language. It's really fascinating and would be helpful for my job."

"I can definitely do that."

"When it comes to our relationship, you already know we're in sync. If we're happy and healthy, then that's all that matters to me. And maybe we can add a pet to the mix...that would be nice!"

"What kind of pet?"

"Maybe a fish tank to start off with and then a puppy."

"That's something to consider. I would love that." We stayed outside until the temperature dropped causing us to head back to the house. I settled in bed waiting for Edward to lock up for the night. He climbed into bed a few moments later and turned off the lamp.

"I always enjoy talking about our future. I know we don't always have full control but it's great to hear that we both want the same things."

"Me too, babe! You're stuck with me forever!"

He laughed. "I wouldn't have it any other way. Let's get some rest...there's a birthday girl in my presence and she needs to be full of energy for what I have planned tomorrow."

"No hints?" I asked while nibbling on his ear.

"Nice try but no hints!" I pouted giving Edward the perfect opportunity to kiss me.

"Goodnight, darling. I love you."

"Night, Bella. I love you too."

Twenty-four. That's how old I was turning today. It was another time of change. It was new experiences. Another year wiser. A time to move forward.

I reached over but only felt an empty side where Edward had slept. The room was bright and cheery to welcome in Sunday and I stretched before getting out of bed. I made my way to the bathroom so I could get ready for the day. There was a set of clothes on the counter and a note addressed to me.

Bella,

This gift is from Alice and Angela and they want you to wear it today. Please come down to the kitchen when you wake up - breakfast will be waiting for you!

All my love, Edward.

I smiled as I placed the card back on the counter and picked up my gift from the girls. There in my hands was a peach colored maxi dress, a cream-colored cardigan, matching belt and sandals. I did my morning routine, got dressed and headed for the kitchen. When I rounded the corner, I was met with a huge surprise. Edward, Alice, Jasper, Angela and Ben were all standing in front of the dining room table and started to sing happy birthday.

"You guys! Thanks so much! When did you all arrive?" I asked as I greeted them with hugs.

"About twenty minutes ago, little sis. Carrington picked us up this morning," Jasper said as he kissed my cheek.

"That outfit looks great on you, Bella!" Alice said as we took out seats.

"Well, thanks to you and Ang. It's perfect!" The guys came over a few moments later and placed various platters of breakfast foods on the table. Edward sat down on the seat next to me and gave me a quick kiss.

"So did you like your surprise, love?" he asked as he tipped my face toward his.

"It's one of the best from this weekend. I'm happy you brought them out here. Thank you!"

"You're welcome!"

We all had our fill of food and drinks and then made our way into the living room. The ladies directed me to sit on the couch as Jasper and Ben set up the next surprise. I was curious to see what would appear.

"Alright, Bella - I need for you to close your eyes and wait for me to say open," Ben instructed as he took his place next to Angela. Edward took hold on my hand and I followed was Ben said. I heard a lot of moment and then shuffling around.

"What are y'all doing?" I chuckled as the others tried to stifle their laughter.

"Jas is almost done!" Angela responded. Finally, I heard him take his seat.

"1,2,3...open!" My mouth hung open as I saw the giant flat screen television. Hannah, Demetri, Charlotte, Daniel, Emmett, Rose, Amanda, Marcus, Carlisle, Esme, Paul, Leah, my parents, the kids and our church's entire worship team was gathered together. Like this morning, I got another round of the song and a bunch of well wishes for a great day.

"You all are so amazing! Thank you for this!"

"We just wanted to say hello before church started! We love you so much!" My mom said making me tear up.

"I love y'all as well. See you when we get back home." The video switched over to the live feed for this morning's services and I rested my head on Edward's shoulder. Hannah did a phenomenal job leading the team for the second time, Grandpa Jack's sermon was great and I felt as if I was right there in the crowd. After we finished, we got in the car and headed into town.

"Where would you like to stop first?" Edward asked.

"The World of Coca-Cola Museum. It looks so much fun!" Everyone seemed to agree and Alice looked up the address. It wasn't too far from the aquarium and botanical gardens. All of us let out collective gasps as we walked in. We took a tour as a group, then had a great time at the theater and was able to sample various drinks at the end.

"You chose well, Bella! I'm definitely coming back again!" Jasper exclaimed as we drove around Atlanta. The rest of my day consisted of visiting different museums, seeing landmarks and ending it with shopping and dinner at Atlantic Station. We made it back to the house as the sun was setting and the night sky slowly came in to collect our belongings. I wished I could have stayed longer but the real world was soon approaching. Everyone except for Edward and I were asleep as we flew back into Dallas.

"I appreciate everything you did for me this weekend. I love you more than anything." I reached up to look at my wonderful boyfriend as he pulled me closer to his side.

"I'm just so happy you had a great time, Bella. You deserve everything good in your life. And I love you... so much, baby." He leaned down to kiss me and I enjoyed every single moment. Our mouths fought for dominance as he drew circles on my thigh. We both pulled away the same time and rested our faces against each other.

These were the moments I lived for.

Being with the people I loved the most.

Making new memories.

Experiencing a new adventure.