I'd like to send a shout out to a couple of people who have been seriously making writing this story so much fun. Thank you to Leslie (StarttheFantasy), Ashley (edwardsouthernbella), Stephanie (luvstwilight09), Lexi (SexyLexiCullen), Kiki (kikithedreamer) and Kyla (theonlykyla) for their support and pimp-age of the story. I love you, ladies! MUAH! Also, thank you to the ladies of The Lemonade Stand for their mention on their blog! Thank you to Wendy from TwilightFicZone for the wonderful review on her blog! I'm truly humbled at the response to this story. I mean, wow! Also to all of my frequent reviewers…you know who you are, especially Sandra, Mrs. Bella Masen, BernieR, dj071688, phoebelicious, SoraChan01, WhatObsession17, Leibeezer, missie33, Smusic and tropicnebula! Your reviews and words of encouragement make me so happy. Thank you! And they make me write faster!
Also, I have a recommendation and shout out. ExquisiteEdward and the story The Color of Loneliness. Read it!
Also, I don't own any of this. I make no money for writing these stories. Though I would like to. I just need to get an original thought or characters. Or something...
Chapter Thirty-Nine: Going to the Chapel…Erm, Garden, Erm…I'm Getting MARRIED!
EPOV
"Edward, you need to calm down," Demetri said as he watched me pace the hotel room for the millionth time. "Wearing a hole in the carpeting will not make time go faster so you can marry Bella."
"I've been up since four, Dem," I said, wanting to run my hands through my hair. However, Alex spent nearly an hour trying to tame the strands and it was somewhat normal looking. "I want to see my bride. Marry her. Love her. Kiss her."
"Fuck her," Jasper snickered from his spot on the couch. I picked up a pillow and whipped it at his head.
"Shut up, douche," I snarled. "I don't want to fuck her."
"Yes, you do," Jasper sighed. "Dude, you're wound so tight. To quote Ferris Bueller, if I stuck a piece a coal up your ass, you'd shit a diamond in two weeks."
"I hate you, Jasper. You've been demoted. Demetri, you're my best man now," I spat.
"Edward, really. Relax," Marcus said, putting his hand on my shoulder. "We're heading to the gardens in ten minutes. Taking some pictures and before you know it; Bella will be walking down the aisle to you in her white dress."
Hearing that, I took a deep breath. I gave Marcus a smile and hugged him. "Thanks. I needed that. Too bad my brothers were being assholes," I said shooting Demetri and Jasper a glare.
"Jasper was being the asshole. I just told you to calm down," Demetri laughed. I sighed and flopped down on the couch. I twisted my promise ring on my right hand. I flipped it to that hand because the palladium ring that Bella had got me was going to be on my left. Alex handed me a glass of champagne and gently rubbed my back as we watched a football game. I chugged the fizzy drink and tried to calm my erratically sputtering heart.
The guys sat there watching the game. I just spaced out. Counting the minutes until the limo came to pick us up. Once the phone rang in the hotel room, I bounced up and nearly sprinted to the door. Jasper guffawed at my enthusiasm. "You think I'm kidding about the whole best man deal," I said over my shoulder as I ran to the elevator. As soon as the elevator arrived, I hit the lobby and waved as the doors closed.
When I arrived in the lobby, a large man was standing near the door. "Mr. Cullen?" he asked.
"That's me," I said eagerly.
"Someone's excited," he chuckled. "I'm Gus and I'll be your driver for today. Is there anyone else coming?"
"Yeah. They're just slow," I said wrinkling my nose.
"We're not slow, Edwina. You're just an ass," Jasper snickered. "You couldn't hold the damn elevator, could you?"
"Sorry," I said unapologetically. "Just really excited. I'm like a kid on Christmas morning. I'm marrying my best friend today. Can't you show a little enthusiasm? Please?"
"I'm excited for you, Edward," Alex chirped. He linked his arm with mine. "I'll probably be the same way with Demetri if he ever decides to propose. You're going to be my man of honor."
"Thanks, Alex. I'm touched. But come on!" I bounced on my toes as we followed Gus into his stretch Hummer. We piled into the limo and thankfully Demetri grabbed my suitcase which I had forgotten to get in my haste to make it down to the limo.
"You might need this, Edward," he snickered. "I don't think you want to do the walk of shame in your wedding tuxedo."
"Thank you, Demetri," I smiled. "I'm obviously not thinking."
"That's why you have us," Demetri replied. "We're your brains until after you say your vows."
"No, Dem. You're my brain. Jasper is a royal pain in my ass," I said, shooting him a glare. "Seriously. Give Demetri the rings. You've been demoted. Chop, chop!"
"God, you are so acting like Alice right now it's funny," Jasper snickered. "I never thought I'd see you. Anal retentive reserved boy turn into a giddy bundle of energy like my Alice. It's down-right scary as shit."
"Demetri is still waiting for those rings," I said.
"Edward, relax man. Have some bourbon," Demetri chuckled as he handed me a flask. I took a swig and relished the burn as it traveled down my throat. I blew out a breath and smiled. "Better?"
"No."
"Edward, seriously, man. You will see your bride in less than an hour. Chillax," Demetri said as he rubbed my bicep. "Imagine being on your honeymoon. Naked. With your wife."
"Not helping, Dem," I said.
We pulled up to the botanic gardens. Gus told me that he would drop off my bag to the villa that Bella and I were staying at. I handed him the key that I picked up this morning and he darted off to the rental before he picked up the girls. We went into the gardens and met up with Riley, Victoria's assistant. We spent forty-five minutes taking pictures around the gardens before we headed back to the ceremony site. I went into the bathroom and patted down my face. Pastor Weber came into the bathroom and gave me a friendly smile.
"How are you doing, Edward?"
"I'm ready," I replied, looking at him in the mirror. "So ready to make Bella my wife."
"I can tell you're excited," he said with a wry grin. "Well, most of your guests are seated. We're only waiting for your bride. Oh and your uncle wants to speak with you."
"Uncle?" I asked, arching my brow. Pastor Weber smiled at me and left the bathroom. I took a few deep breaths and headed outside. Right by the door was Uncle Eleazar. I know that Esme invited him and Carmen but as far as I knew, they had declined the invitation.
"Edward!" he said as he leaned in for a hug. I stiffly returned it. "You look great, my boy."
"Thank you," I said formally. "I'm surprised you came."
"We debated but after all of the drama, Carmen and I decided to spend some time away from Chicago," Eleazar said with a smile. "Kate and her boyfriend came. So did Tanya."
Oh, goody. Just what I need. To be groped by my COUSIN at my wedding.
Fuck. Me.
"I'm glad you could make it out," I replied. "If you excuse me, I have my wedding to attend."
"Edward…wait," Eleazar said as he grabbed my wrist. I looked down at his hand and raised my brows. "I know that we didn't get along."
"Do you think that now is not an appropriate time to bring this up?" I asked, crossing my arms over my chest.
"Edward, I let my relationship with your father taint my relationship with you. He never spoke fondly of you. Actually, his loathing toward you was quite evident. Pictures on his desk were always of Alice and Emmett. Never you," Eleazar said sadly. "I never understood why."
"Neither did I. But you know what? I don't care," I seethed. "I don't have a father. He's long gone and dead to me."
"I understand," Eleazar said. "And I don't blame you. Edward, I know that we aren't close. You probably hate me. Carmen, the girls and I were never your biggest fans, but that was because of the influence of your father. And your brother. I'm going to let you in a little secret. The law firm is in dire straits. I'll be lucky if I make it out without incident. With my status as a lawyer intact. Your father is in over his head with debts. Debts your brother incurred. Emmett had his hand in illegal gambling, prostitution, drugs and insider trading."
"Have you told the cops?" I asked.
"I have. I spoke with a Detective Swan. The judge is willing to be lenient with me if I cooperate and corroborate evidence," Eleazar explained. "I'm sorry, Edward."
"Why are you sorry?" I asked.
"You deserved to be loved by your father and I'm sorry that I let his hatred of you taint my opinion. I saw your press conference for the foundation. I know what you do for the community. I know that you run a multi-billion dollar company. You are a good man and I hope that we can possibly rebuild some sort of relationship," Eleazar said, wringing his hands.
"Start by rekindling your relationship with Irina," I said.
"She's here?"
"Yes. With Kelly and their son, Kyle," I whispered. I looked at my pocket watch. "I really do need to go. Perhaps, when I get back from my honeymoon, we can go out for lunch. Or something."
"I'd like that," Eleazar said with a wide grin. "And congratulations, Edward. I'm so happy for you."
I smiled and shook his hand. Eleazar turned and went to the ceremony site and I went to where Pastor Weber was standing. Alex, Demetri and Jasper darted off and they said it was go time.
I think I'm going to have a heart attack…
Breathe, Cullen. In through your nose. Out through your mouth.
Not. Helping.
"Breathe, Edward," Pastor Weber said as he rubbed my arm comfortingly. I took another deep breath and followed him onto the platform.
Yeah, still not helping.
Once I took my spot to the pastor's left, the string quartet finished their song. An arrangement of Clair de Lune filled the quiet sanctuary of the gardens. Alex carried his basket and spread his red flower petals with a grin. He pranced and danced up the aisle, garnering many snickers from our friends and family. He even got me to chuckle quietly. As he strode past me, he smacked my ass and hissed at me to relax.
Next up was Demetri and Alice. They walked slowly up the aisle. I giggled internally at their size difference. Demetri was easily 6'5" with long flowing brown hair that he pulled back into a sleek ponytail. Alice barely came up to his navel in her dress. Her hair was pinned and curled with small clips. As she moved toward the front, Alice winked at me mouthing that she loved me. I smiled. Jasper and Rose were up next. They glided down the aisle and took their spots. Jasper squeezed my tense shoulders, whispering that Bella was absolutely gorgeous.
Was there any doubt?
The string quartet music faded again and the arrangement I created of her lullaby wafted through the air. Our friends and family stood up and I saw Charlie's dark brown hair. I stood on my tip toes to see if I could see my bride. However, I couldn't. Not yet.
Why did they stand up? Sit down, people! I need to see my wife!
Once Renee and Charlie reached the halfway point, I saw her. Angels sang. Babies wept. Rainbows shot across the heavens. The fat lady sang. Little dogs and cats pranced in fields holding hands.
You are losing your damn mind, Cullen. Are you high?
Standing between Charlie and Renee was my Bella. Her face was glowing and radiant. Her eyes were sparkling. Her hair was curled and pinned up elegantly. Her dress was white and it fit her like a glove. She looked like an angel. My angel. My jaw dropped and I bit back tears as I saw her move toward me. It looked like she was floating on air. She moved so gracefully.
"Who gives this woman away?" Pastor Weber asked.
"Her mother and I do," Charlie said in a cracked voice. Renee kissed Bella's cheek and sat down next to Phil. Charlie hugged her tightly before placing her right hand in my left. Charlie pulled me close. "I'm still a cop. I will not hesitate to shoot you in the lily white ass if you hurt my little girl."
"Got it, sir," I laughed nervously. I assisted Bella up to the platform and grinned at her. "You look exquisite, my Bella."
She blushed. "Thank you, Edward."
Pastor Weber gave us a kind smile and began the service. "Dearly beloved. We are gathered here today for the wedding of Isabella Dwyer and Edward Cullen. These two young people have made the decision to join themselves in front of their friends, family and God in holy matrimony. For their vows, Edward and Isabella have written their own. Edward, you're first."
I blew out a breath and took Bella's hands into my own. I could feel her tremble. "Bella, I've spent all of my life waiting for you. I never thought that I would ever find true love or my soul mate. But I did. In you. After our first conversation, I knew you were special. Unique. Beautiful. Compassionate. Intelligent. Everything I hoped for in a friend, girlfriend, fiancée, wife, partner, soul mate. As our relationship grew, so did my love for you. I honestly think that I fell for you after that initial phone call. I definitely knew I wanted to be with you forever after that first weekend that we were together. Bella, you are my best friend. My closest friend. I can't imagine my life without you and now with you being my wife, I won't have to. I love you, baby. More than my own life and I can't wait to share everything I have to offer you for the rest of our lives."
I stared into Bella's chocolate orbs and they were brimming with tears. Rose handed her a delicate handkerchief and she daintily wiped her cheeks. A stray tear fell down her rosy skin and I captured it with my thumb. "How do I follow that?" she sniffled. The crowd laughed slightly as Bella took a breath. "Edward, you are so…perfect. I was your first relationship. First kiss. First love. First everything. I couldn't ask for a better man to share my life with. Now, I'm a writer and I couldn't come up with something that perfectly fit my feelings for you. However, E. E. Cummings said it the best.
i carry your heart with me
i carry it in my heart
i am never without it
anywhere i go you go, my dear;
and whatever is done
by only me is your doing, my darling
i fear no fate
for you are my fate, my sweet
i want no world
for beautiful you are my world, my true
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you
here is the deepest secret nobody knows
here is the root of the root
and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;
which grows higher than soul can hope or mind can hide
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart
i carry your heart
i carry it in my heart
"Edward, you are my best friend. My soul mate. My lover. My husband. The father of our children. The grandfather of our grandchildren. I cannot imagine you not in my life. Last night you gave me a pendant and you wear the key. You do hold the key to my heart and in turn, I hold your heart. I love you. So much, my angel. My geek charming. I anxiously look forward to each step that we take together as a couple and I know that if I falter, you'll be there to catch me and I'll be there to catch you."
Bella smiled and she handed me the handkerchief. I wiped my cheeks and laced my fingers with hers. We mouthed that we loved each other and turned toward Pastor Weber. He asked for the rings from Jasper and he handed them to the pastor. Pastor Weber placed them on the bible that he was holding and said a quiet prayer. "Edward, take this ring and place it on Bella's left hand. Please repeat after me."
"With this ring, I thee wed," I sniffled. "For richer or for poorer. In good times and in bad. In sickness and in health. For all of the days of my life. This is my solemn vow." I slid the ring over her knuckle and pressed a soft kiss to her new ring.
"Bella, take this ring and place it on Edward's left hand. Please repeat after me."
Bella took the ring from Pastor Weber and pushed it down my finger. "With this ring, I thee wed. For richer or for poorer. In good times and in bad. In sickness and in health. For all the days of my life. This is my solemn vow." She spun the ring one time before kissing my knuckle with her soft lips.
"By the powers vested in me by the city of Phoenix and the state of Arizona, I now pronounce you husband and wife," Pastor Weber said gleefully. "You may kiss your bride."
"Mrs. Cullen," I said as I cupped her cheeks. She squealed and threw her arms around my neck. Our lips crashed together and our families cheered. I gently pushed my tongue between her soft lips and swept it inside her warm mouth. Bella's hands tangled in my hair and she moaned quietly. Pastor Weber cleared his throat and we pulled apart. Bella and I gave him a sheepish look. He just grinned.
"It is my distinct and happy pleasure to introduce to you, for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Edward and Isabella Cullen," Pastor Weber announced. Rose handed Bella her bouquet and the string quartet began playing 'Angel' by Sarah McLachlan. We walked down the aisle and to the back of the garden where our ceremony was being held. Once we were a few feet away from the garden, I scooped Bella up in my arms. I spun us around and she laughed happily.
"We're married," she sang as I put her on her feet. "Mr. Cullen. I'm your wife."
"Hmmm," I said I leaned down to kiss her. "I love that. Mrs. Cullen." She squealed again and threw herself in my arms. I wrapped my arms around her waist and gently lifted her. We kissed and hugged for some time before Rose and Jasper called us to sign our marriage certificate. After that was taken care of, we spent the rest of the afternoon taking photos with our family and bridal party.
Yeah, my face hurt.
But, I was smiling so widely because I was married. Edward Cullen, nerd extraordinaire, was a married man.
Well, pinch my ass and call me gay!
I'm married! I'm married! I'm married! I'm married!
Hey, did you hear? Edward Cullen is married! No shit!
Yeah, I'm married.
I'm such a geek.
Hangs head in shame. But who the fuck cares? I'm married!
After our pictures, Gus came and picked up the bridal party. We rode in the huge limo to the Art Museum. We were going to take some more pictures there before our dinner and reception. It was a tiny party. We had less than thirty wedding guests. Our families and some friends from work. Even though it was a small wedding, we still were going to have fun. We had the best caterer, best DJ and best bride and groom.
If I say so myself.
Once our families got settled into their seats, the DJ announced the bridal party. Alex danced into 'Dancing Queen.' He shook his ass and spun on the dance floor like a complete goof. However, he had a great time. Demetri and Alice entered in some samba. He swirled and spinned her like a pro. Alice shrieked as she was thrown around the dance floor like a ragdoll. Rose and Jasper strolled into Peter Gunn, acting all suave. Jasper dipped Rose and she smacked him on the chest with her bouquet.
"And now, for the first time as husband and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Cullen," the DJ announced. As he said that, the strains of 'When I Fall in Love' filled the chamber. Bella and I glided to the center of the dance floor. Bella put her arms around my neck and we dance smoothly to the quiet jazz standard.
"Can you believe that we're married?" she asked quietly. "I'm your wife. You're my husband. We're married. I just can't believe it, baby."
"Believe it, Bella. You're mine. I'm yours. Until one of us croaks," I joked.
"Hopefully we'll live forever. Even forever isn't long enough with you, Edward," she said as she put her head on my shoulder. As she did, I noticed something on her neck, under the necklace I had gotten her.
"Bella, what's on your neck?" I asked as I ran my fingers over the slightly raised skin.
"Part of your wedding present," she said coyly. I deftly turned her so her back was to my chest. I looked down at the new tattoo that lay on her perfectly pale skin.
"Is that…?" I murmured.
"A crown and your new crest," she said, looking over her shoulder. "I also put your initials and our wedding date on it. They're really tiny, though. It'll look better once it's fully healed."
"It's beautiful," I said as kissed the tattoo. "I have a new one for you, too, gorgeous. You'll see it when we get to the villa."
She pouted. "I can't see it now?"
"No, Bella," I said, spinning her away and pulling her into a passionate kiss while I dipped her. I righted us and kissed my wife until we sat down at the head table. Once we did, the DJ handed the microphone to Jasper.
Lord, grant me strength. I don't want to spend my wedding night in a holding cell because I tried killing my best friend.
"Good evening ladies and gentlemen. My name is Jasper Whitlock. Husband to Alice Whitlock. Best man and business partner to the esteemed Edward Cullen. Brother-in-law to Edward and Bella Cullen. Resident pain in the ass. You know the drill. My job as best man and business partner is to embarrass the hell out of the groom. And I debated on what to say to make my best friend turn a lovely shade of puce. Was it his month of not showering when World of Warcraft came out? No. I had to live through that. It sucked. I think I had to call in the hazmat team to disinfect our apartment.
"Was it my constant teasing of Edward to move out of the house? No. He moved out. When he was twenty-eight. He moved in with his twin sister. I think Alice did his laundry for him.
"Was it my relentless bugging him to get a girlfriend? Why, yes. Yes it was. I love Edward like a brother but he was missing so much out his life. And when I told him to get a girlfriend, he brings us Bella. A vision of beauty, purity and intelligence that I'd never seen before. What's even better? She brings out the best in Edward. She deals with his bullshit. She makes him stronger. She loves him, despite his unhygienic tendencies."
"Now, Jasper," Bella scolded. "Edward smells really good. So, shut it or I'll tell Alice about your little something in your office."
"What in my office?" Jasper asked. Bella motioned for him to come over. She hissed 'Gay PORN.' Jasper paled and nodded quietly. "Edward smells like gardenias and roses. Best smell EVER! And watch out for your wife. She'll kick your ass."
"Don't I know it," I snickered as I laced my fingers with hers. "But, I'd rather get my ass kicked by you any day."
"Anyhow, I'm so happy that Edward finally found his love and his perfect equal in life. Bella, you bring out the best in my friend. My brother. I love you and I'm so happy you came into our lives. Edward, I'm so glad that you finally found a girl who doesn't think you're a complete nerd. Love you, brother and try not to break your wife on your honeymoon with all the hot sex you're going to have."
"Jasper!" Bella and I hissed.
He just smirked and held up his champagne glass. "To Edward and Bella!"
I think I did turn a shade of puce and I really wanted to kick Jasper's ever loving hick ass. When he sat down, I glared at him. "When I get back, I'm so going to pummel you, Whitlock."
"Love you, Edwina," he said as he made kissy faces at me. I smacked his head and turned to Rose who had the microphone.
"Jasper, you are an ass," Rose snickered. "I do not blame Edward or Bella if we find little Jasper pieces in our dinner tonight. Trust me. It tastes like chicken.
"Bella has been my best friend and sister for a few years now. Our relationship began as a professional one. She was my editor. After our first meeting, I knew I had to get this woman out of her shell. Bellini, I love you, but you were a hot mess when we met. Painfully shy, reserved, prude, but I could see a sassy, snarky woman just waiting to bubble over into the surface. I saw glimpses of her during our friendship. However, it wasn't until she met SGB. Also known as Sexy Geek Boy. Did I fully see Bella's true inner-snark."
Bella buried her face in her hands.
"Don't hide, Bellini," Rose said as she patted Bella's head. "Be proud of your snarkinesss. Be proud of your sexuality. Be proud that you nabbed the hottest geek I've ever seen in my entire life. Seriously, Esme, you must have had the good prenatal vitamins. All of your children are gorgeous. I can't wait until Bella and SGB start popping them out. Those babies are going to be beauty kings and queens. I pity your daughters, Edward. Really, I do. Invest in a shotgun. Now.
"I may be teasing Bella, but in the time that she's been with Edward, I saw her blossom. The love that this man has for this woman is stuff made out of fairy tales. The prince on the white horse who saves the damsel in distress. Trust me when I say that Bella is definitely a distressing damsel. She can barely walk on a solid ground without injuring herself. Edward, be prepared for many surgeries, crutches and other various hospital visits. She'll totally feed your hero complex.
"I love you both. Edward, you are willing to do anything for my best friend and that in and of itself is worth a million bucks in my book. The fact that you have such a loving heart for others makes you worth more than that. Bella, I love you like a sister. You've been there for me through thick and thin and I am thankful for our friendship. So, without further ado, to Edward and Bella Cullen."
Glasses were raised and we toasted our new marriage. After we sipped our champagne, Bella and I kissed. I deepened it momentarily before she pulled away. Dinners were distributed and we all tucked into the food. Between the main course and dessert, Bella and I went to cut the cake. We both smiled as we slid the knife down into the red velvet cake. I fed Bella a tiny piece and she did the same to me. With her finger, she dabbed on some frosting on my nose. I groaned as she licked it off.
Once I adjusted my rapidly growing cock, I laced my fingers with Bella's. I led her to the piano that was placed next to the DJ booth. He handed me microphone. I stopped Bella and caressed her cheek before I began speaking. "I love you, gorgeous," I said quietly.
"I love you more," she murmured.
I grinned crookedly and kissed her perfect lips. "Before I give Bella her final wedding present, we would like to say that we appreciate all of you being here. On Christmas eve. It is a true testament to how much you care for us and we love all of you and thank you for sharing in our wedding. The present I have for Bella is a composition. She has been such an inspiration for me. Before I used to just play the music of other great men and women. Never really composed anything. However, Bella's beauty, intelligence and love has driven me to create my own music. Our own music. So, the piece I'm playing for her today is our story. I love you, Isabella."
I handed the microphone back to the DJ and guided Bella to the piano bench. We sat down together and I lifted the lid. She put her head on my shoulder. I kissed her forehead and placed my hands on the black and white keys. My hands glided over the piano keyboard. I started with a variation of Bella's lullaby and then morphed into something different. Something more. The chords and melodies rang through the room. I could feel Bella's body lean against my heavily. I could feel a dampness on my shoulder where Bella placed her head. I closed my eyes and built the song to its climax. As I did, the song faded away with a new creation. Something that was both Bella and me. Our lives would forever be intertwined. As husband and wife. As partners. As lovers. As friends. As soul mates.
I pulled my hands away and reached under the piano bench. I handed my wife a small bag with a recording of our songs. Her lullaby and our love story. "I love you, my wife," I whispered as I cupped her chin.
"I adore you, my husband," she said with a watery smile. "That was absolutely gorgeous. You never cease to amaze me."
"I do it all for you, love," I said. I wiped her tears from her cheeks and pressed soft angel kisses to her forehead, cheeks, jaw and lips. Our little love bubble, though, was interrupted by the announcement of the father/daughter dance. It was actually two songs. The first song was for Bella and Phil. He was the only father she knew prior to meeting Charlie. Phil guided her awkwardly until the end of the song. The next one was with Charlie. They didn't really move; just swayed. Charlie was speaking to Bella and she was smiling. Once the song was done, I guided Esme out to the dance floor and we moved to Boyz II Men's "A Song For Mama."
"Edward, I'm so proud of you," Esme said as she gripped my hand. "I see so much happiness for you in the future. And you have such a wonderful woman to share it with."
"She is perfect, isn't she?" I asked, my eyes glistening with tears.
"That song you played, Edward. Oh my word, it was beyond any type of description," Esme crooned. "I forgot how talented you were."
"I was good at playing other composer's songs. Never writing my own," I blushed.
"But you did just that. And I couldn't…Edward, I'm just astonished. I love you so much, my sweet baby boy," Esme said, tears falling down her cheeks.
"Don't cry, Mom," I said as I wiped her tears away. "It's a happy day. Your baby boy got married. The right way."
"Not in Vegas," she snickered.
"Exactly," I laughed. "So, it's pretty safe to assume that I'm on the top of the list of favorite offspring, right now?"
"My number one," Esme said as she ruffled my hair. "You've always had a special place in my heart, Edward. Emmett was always so physically strong and he didn't need me once he learned to walk. Alice, we share a mother/daughter bond. But you…you…your strength grew subtly. I always knew you'd amount to great things. A mother is not supposed to have 'favorite children.' We need to love all our children the same, but you were always my favorite. Just don't tell Alice."
"Your secret's safe with me, Ma," I said as I hugged her tightly.
After our dance, the floor was opened to our families and friends. Bella and I walked around the tables and thanked everyone for coming. Irina squealed and jumped around like a crazy person, hugging Bella and me. Kelly could barely contain her and Kyle looked like he wanted to crawl under the table and die.
I think the sweetest moment that I saw was when Bella asked Kyle to dance. He'd been sitting at his table with his moms and Angela and Ben looking bored all night. When the Cha Cha slide came on, Bella offered her hand to Kyle. He looked at her skeptically but went out on the dance floor. I slid next to them and we did the silly line dance. The next song was the Chicken Dance followed by the Hokey Pokey. I was thoroughly flummoxed when I saw Uncle Eleazar and Aunt Carmen hop up for the Hokey Pokey.
Before they left, I did see that Uncle Eleazar and Aunt Carmen approach Irina and Kelly. Irina bristled but when her father pulled her in an embrace, she quickly melted. I was so happy that Uncle Eleazar wasn't reliving my father's mistakes and reconnecting with his daughter. His grandson.
"You did that, didn't you?" Bella asked as she slipped her arms around my waist.
"No, he did. I just encouraged him to do so," I said as I hugged my wife.
I'm married! WOO HOO! Party time!
"Alice told me that they will handle the rest of the party. She said we have an early flight tomorrow and she is encouraging us to enjoy our wedding night," Bella said with a sultry grin.
"No more sex embargo?" I asked.
"As soon as you untie me from this heavy dress, you can have it, angel," she grinned.
I did a fist pump and kissed Bella deeply. I sent a text to Gus who had slipped me his cell phone number after he dropped us off at the art museum. We went around and thanked everyone for their generosity. Hugs and kisses were given freely and once my phone vibrated in my pocket, I scooped up my wife and carried her to the exit.
My wife…I'm married!
God, I'm so fucking pathetic.
Gus drove us to the villa. He told me that he was going to be our driver tomorrow morning to the airport. I slipped him a couple hundred bucks for taking him away from his family on Christmas. He blushed and thanked me profusely. Once we got to the door, I picked up Bella bridal style and carried her into the small villa that I rented for our first night together as husband and wife.
"You are going to throw out your back by carrying me so much," Bella giggled.
"Please. You weight like two pounds," I said dryly as I carried her to the bedroom.
"Whatever, Edward," she said as I placed her on her feet. She looked around the room and bit her lip. She saw a large back on the bed and danced over to it. "This is your wedding present. From me, Mr. Cullen." She handed me the bag and pushed me toward the chair in the room. I sat down and pulled out the mounds of tissue paper. "Alice had a field day with the paper."
I reached into the bag and pulled out a book and a card. I placed the book on my lap and tore open the card. It was a picture card from our engagement shoot. One of my favorite shots. We were standing in front of Buckingham Fountain and staring into each other's eyes and holding hands. I smiled and opened it up. In Bella's handwriting was a note.
My Dearest Edward,
We're finally husband and wife. Bound together for the rest of our lives. Each day an adventure. I can't wait to begin that adventure with you by my side as my partner, my equal, my husband, my lover, my best friend and my soul mate. You sent me notes about the hopes and dreams that you'd like to have in our marriage. All of them made me cry and I want everything with you.
And we'll get it. We were awkward and lost when we were apart. Together, we fit perfectly. And we're unstoppable.
I love you. Only you. For all eternity.
Your wife, your lover and your best friend,
Isabella CULLEN (I LOVE that!)
"Bella," I whispered.
"Don't get all mushy on me, Cullen. Look at your book," she said as she sat on my lap. I looked at her. She smiled at me and pointed to the glossy hardcover book on our laps. A Nerd Story of Love by Isabella Cullen, photographs by Victoria McPhinnigan. I arched a brow and smiled crookedly. I opened the book and inside were pictures from our relationship. All of the places we went to in Phoenix. Our photo taken by Mrs. Cope. Photos from Bella's trip with Rose. Photos from our time in Chicago when she was gimpy. As I flipped through the book, I noticed that she had told our story through quotes, anecdotes and songs. Toward the end of the book, the pictures became more risqué. Bella on a bed in fancy lingerie. In my shirt and the Super girl panties.
"Do you still have those?" I growled as I pointed to the picture.
"Packed," she said as she ran her lips along my earlobe. "I think Alice completed the whole look, too."
"Do I want to know?" I asked.
"I honestly don't know. Even if I did know, I couldn't tell you. Alice packed our suitcases, remember? Keep looking, angel," she urged. I flipped through the book and Bella was wearing less and less clothing. My tuxedo pants were getting tighter. On the last page, Bella was completely naked. Her lower half was covered by a white sheet tangled around her legs. Her hands were covering her breasts. The look in her eyes was complete sex and I wanted her.
I wanted to make love to my wife.
"Bella," I moaned.
"You like?" she asked coyly.
"I love," I replied, looking into her endless brown eyes. "However, I was just looking at the pictures. I'll read the story later. After I make love to my wife."
She hopped up and turned around. "Start untying, Romeo," she said as she shook her ass. I smiled and reached for the red ribbon that held up her dress. Once I got it loosened enough, Bella held her dress up with her hand. "I'm going to change into something more comfortable. I want you. In the bed. Naked. By the time I come out." She winked and swiped the bag next to mine on the bed. Once the door clicked shut, I whipped off my tuxedo and flew to the bed. I looked at the mess I left on the floor and groaned. I got up and picked up my tuxedo. I placed it neatly on the chair and then crawled back into the bed. My cock was already at full attention.
It's a long time. I need me some Bella. Now.
I looked around the room and saw a few candles. I lit them and waited, impatiently, for my wife. I was thinking too hard about this.
Under the covers?
Over the covers?
Pillow over my junk?
Should I get champagne?
GAH!
"Edward?" Bella cooed. She was wearing a white chemise that floated away from her body. Underneath were the tiniest panties I'd ever seen. They left little to the imagination. Bella's hair was taken down and curled down her back. She had removed her jewelry and put on her heart pendant. Around her milky thing was a red and black garter belt. "We forgot to do the garter and bouquet toss, baby. Can you help me?"
I beckoned her with my finger and she sashayed toward me. I sat at the edge of the bed and pulled Bella between my legs. I ran my hands down her soft, supple skin of her leg before I lifted the leg with the garter belt onto the bed. Bella's eyes darkened and she ran her hand through my now tousled hair. I pressed kisses up her leg until I got to the filmy garter. With my teeth, I tugged at it. The garter slid down her leg and I tossed it over my shoulder. I looked up at my wife and grinned crookedly. "I love you, Bella."
"I love you, more, Edward. However, if you don't make love to me in the next thirty seconds, I'm going to fucking explode," she said as she gripped my hair tightly.
I flipped her onto the bed and her hair splayed onto the white bedspread. I pinned her body with my hips and I kissed her pink lips. Bella's legs wrapped around my body and I nestled between them. I traced my hand up the length of her leg. Slowly, I moved my fingers to the tie between her breasts. I tugged on it and the chemise fell away, revealing Bella's perfect body. "So beautiful," I murmured as I kissed down her chest, taking one of her breasts into my mouth. Bella arched her back and moaned loudly as I swirled my tongue around her pert, pink nipple. Her hands tangled into my hair, thoroughly mussing it up. I couldn't care less. I was going to make love to my wife. My beautiful, loving, perfect wife.
I moved my lips to the other breast and gently squeezed it with my hand. With my other hand, I slipped my fingers into the tiny elastic straps of Bella's panties and slid them down her legs. I moved my mouth down her body and I spread her legs. With my tongue, I teased her inner thighs. But she didn't want to be teased. She didn't need it. Her body was glistening with her arousal and that, in turn, made me even harder. Without warning, I licked the length of her pussy, relishing in the sweet flavor of my bride. As soon as my tongue came in contact with her slick flesh, I felt her body quake.
One…damn, I'm good.
I moved my mouth up to her sensitive nub and wrapped my lips around it. I gently suckled on her clit as her hips undulated in concert with my tongue. As I kept my mouth on her body, I slid a finger into her warmth. Again, her body quaked and she let out a quiet whimper.
Number two…
I moved my tongue and lips further down her body. I slid my tongue in and out of her entrance as I pumped my finger in and out of her core. I loved seeing her like this. Completely wild and without abandon. I loved making her come. I loved her taste. I loved everything about this gorgeous woman.
I added a second finger and curled them up toward her belly button. Her body arched off the bed and she let out a guttural scream. Her muscles clamped around my fingers and I never felt her come so hard and so fast. It took almost all of my strength to keep pumping.
And that's three.
As she came back down to earth, I kissed up her body but kept my hand on her sweet pussy. I idly circled her clit as I nuzzled her neck. "You're amazing, Isabella," I cooed in her ear, licking the shell.
"No, that would be you, angel," she said, giving me a lazy grin. "Don't get me wrong, handsome. I love your tongue and fuck, I love your fingers. But I miss your cock. I need you, baby. I need to feel you inside me. Please, Edward?"
"Who am I to deny my wife?" I said as I pulled her over my straining dick. She slid the chemise off her body and lined up with her entrance. Slowly. Painfully slowly, she eased down my length until she completely enveloped my cock. Fuck, I missed this. "Holy hell," I moaned.
"I missed you, Edward." She laced her fingers with mine and slowly began rocking on my cock. Her eyes blazed as she moved over me. "I missed feeling you. I missed making love to you."
"Never again," I said as I swiveled my hips against hers. "I will make love to you for the rest of my life. I love you, my Bella."
"I love you, my Edward," she said as she pressed my hands above my head. She bent down and kissed my lips languidly. Her body hugged my cock. The warmth and wetness spurred me on. I loved being with her. She made me complete. She made me strong. She made me confident. She made me the man I always wanted to be. And would continue to be. For her. For me. For us. For our future.
I released my hand from hers and moved it to her hip. Without breaking our connection, I flipped us so I was hovering over her. I grabbed one of her legs and put it over my shoulder. I sat back on my haunches and began moving faster. Bella's hand moved to her clit and she began rubbing furiously. I growled and leaned forward to deepen my angle. "Do you know what you do to me, Bella? You are the sexiest woman in the world. I'm so close."
"Let go, angel," she moaned as she looked up into my eyes.
"Not without you, love," I said, staring into her molten chocolate pools. Her hips moved against mine and I could feel the warmth in my stomach of my impending release. Bella groaned loudly as she gripped my forearm. Her short nails dug into my skin.
"Ed…waaaaaaaaard," she yelled. "Harder, angel. Please!" I moved forward and pounded into her tight body. Sweat was dripping off my forehead and I fought to keep myself from exploding without my wife. Bella screamed again and her body clamped around my cock. Her release triggered mine and I roared in complete ecstasy. Stars flashed behind my eyes. I pumped in her several more times before pulling out. I rolled onto my back, breathing heavily. Like I ran ten marathons.
"Holy intensity, Batman," I chuckled.
"I never thought it would be different but it was. Intense. Feral. Loving and perfect," Bella said as she curled up next to me. I wrapped my arms around her frame and held her close. "I love you, husband."
"I love you more, wife."
We crawled between the sheets and stared into each other's eyes until sleep finally claimed us. As I drifted into dreamland, I smiled at how wonderful my life had turned out and I wouldn't change anything. Ever.
A/N: All together now…AWWWWWWWWWWWWWW! Who wants their own Geekward? *Waves hand madly! I do! I do!* Can he be more insanely perfect? I mean really? Anyhow, we have the honeymoon, Emmett's trial, and Alice and Jasper's reception. It'll be crazy. But fun. Don't forget to check out my blog (link in my profile) for extra teasers and glimpses into what I see for them fashion wise. Leave me love (or hate…) or a Geekward in the form of a review.