Disclaimer: Not mine…
A/N: Thank you for reading & reviewing! Well…I'm trying something new here. I don't believe I've ever done so many different POVs in one chapter. Sorry it's kind of giant. Hopefully it works. I hear wedding bells…without further ado…
Songs For This Chapter: Heaven- Bryan Adams, I Promise You –Backstreet Boys, Then –Brad Paisley
Chapter 37
BPOV
October 3rd
"You must be Edward's fiancé Bella."
I smiled as I turned to meet yet another person who was somehow involved in Edward's baseball world. His name didn't register with me, but he looked like he was a baseball player. You would think after all these months, I would've at least learned who Edward's teammates were. They all looked different though in their designer suits and walking around with their girlfriends and wives in their designer dresses.
"My name is Franklin and this is my girlfriend Angelique."
"It's a pleasure to meet you," I smiled wider, finally being able to put the name with a spot in the batting order. Franklin hit two spots before Edward. He sure looked different in a suit.
"I love your dress," His girlfriend said, and I smiled, thanking her quietly.
I was sure I was going to be overdressed for the occasion, but Edward practically demanded that I wear this purple strapless dress that Alice bought me a couple of weeks ago. When I arrived at the end of the season party, Edward had that hungry look in his eyes that told me that he definitely liked this dress.
"I think it's one of my favorites," Edward's voice said from behind me.
I smiled when I felt Edward's arm wrap around my waist and I pressed myself against his side. I listened and smiled as Edward talked to Franklin before leading us away to talk with other guests at the party. The Mariners were in first place in the AL West and as planned, were starting their play off games on Wednesday against Boston here in Seattle. Edward was playing phenomenally, and I had seen on ESPN that reports were saying if he kept playing the way that he was, he'd be a shoe-in for MVP in the post season.
It was reports like that that made my heart clench. Edward hadn't brought up his decision regarding his baseball career again. I did know however, that he wasn't going to make a decision until the World Series was done. His little blow up with reporters in Toronto was definitely on the news here. No matter how much I had wanted him to quit, I couldn't let him know that now. Even today as I watched him after the game signing autographs, he looked so happy being out there that I didn't have to heart to tell him. One of the reasons I still had yet to learn who all of his teammates were, was that I always watched Edward regardless of what would be going on in the game.
At the beginning of the season, there still seemed to be that tension between Edward and his teammates. After he told reporters about his upbringing in Forks, I think everyone could see the shift in the team. Edward talked to more than just Emmett and he would smile and joke with other players. Today as I watched him in the dugout, he was joking with…oh lord I wish I remembered his name…Jack? Josh? Point is, Edward was joking around and enjoying himself. This was more than the reason of "escaping"…Edward wanted to be out there. He wanted to be playing baseball. You could see it in his eyes.
All tonight as Edward and I walked around, I heard conversations about his playing and his future. Most of the talk was about Edward's current stats and records he would likely break. There were those who were also bold enough to ask Edward about his future plans. I smiled as he graciously declined to comment. The one conversation that rocked me was one I had while Edward was in the bathroom. I wasn't even quite sure who these men were that Edward left me talking with, but they were talking my ear off about baseball and Edward. My ears perked up when I heard the Hall of Fame mentioned.
"The way he's playing, that kid will be a shoe in for the Hall of Fame."
"Really?" I asked, my attention piqued.
"Oh definitely," the older man in the brown suit said, "Seattle would be stupid to let him go after this season."
I just nodded, not wanting to comment on that situation.
The other man in the grey suit nodded.
"Think about it, if Edward finishes out his career here in Seattle, not only will he go down in the history books, but the team will too. They already have Ichiro, who more than likely will retire as a Mariner in 2012, and then you have Edward, who has who knows how many years left in him."
I nodded, knowing that Edward and Ichiro had extremely similar stats. They were both in the Top 5 in all sorts of statistical categories in the AL.
"Ichiro has a lock on a spot in the Hall of Fame," brown suit said, "And if Edward plays two more solid years, he is in for sure."
"Why only two more years?" I asked.
"You need to play at least ten seasons to be considered for the Hall of Fame," black suit said, while giving me a look like he thought I was stupid.
Thank God Edward had chosen that moment to return from the bathroom and whisk me away to another part of the room. I hadn't forgotten what those two men had said though, and as the night went on and Edward talked to more people about baseball, it was obvious to me, that even though he would likely deny it, he wasn't ready to retire. The glint of excitement was there when he would talk to people about the play offs and how hard he and the team had worked to get here. The Hall of Fame popped into my head again, and I couldn't deny that I sort of liked the thought of Edward being given that honor. He had overcome so much to be the man and the baseball player that he is, and maybe I was biased, but I wanted him to be recognized for his work and accomplishments in some way.
While the realization that Edward wasn't ready to hang up his baseball glove yet made my heart ache, it didn't change the fact that I was ready to marry him. At this time tomorrow, I would be Mrs. Edward Cullen, and being his wife, I would support him through whatever decision he made about his baseball future. I had wanted him to quit before, but after tonight, I knew I couldn't be selfish. If I made him quit now, Edward wouldn't be happy, no matter what he said. If he asked me in a couple of weeks what I thought, I would tell him to take a good look at all the offers he got. Hopefully we wouldn't be packing our stuff and moving to San Francisco or St. Louis…
We didn't stay too long at the party. My stomach got a fluttery feeling as we left, a limo picking us up and escorting us to the private airfield, our bags and clothing in the trunk. Edward's friend Patrick was flying us to Port Angeles tonight and then we were driving to Forks. It made a hell of a lot more sense than driving hours to get there, especially after such a long day today. Edward was still in his silvery grey suit and I was still in my dress as we rode in silence, his arm wrapped around my shoulders, and his free hand playing with my engagement ring on my hand.
"What are you thinking about?" I asked, drawing Edward's attention away from the window.
"Hm?" Edward hummed, turning to look at me.
"You look like you're thinking pretty hard about something," I said softly, stroking my fingers down his cheek.
He smiled faintly at me, leaning down and placing a kiss on my forehead.
"Just thinking about tomorrow."
"Is that all?" I asked, pressing my forehead against his neck.
"Bella," Edward said, pulling back so he could see my face, "what do you mean?"
I bit my lip. I shouldn't have said anything. This wasn't part of my "waiting until Edward brought it up" plan to talk to Edward about his future baseball career.
"I just…I heard people talking tonight…"
"Oh baby," Edward sighed, "are you wondering about my baseball career too?"
"Edward, I really think you should take a good look at the offers that come your way."
"You think I should still play?" Edward asked, pulling back further.
"Edward," I sighed, looking down at my lap, "I just think you should take a good look at the offers. You're really playing phenomenally, and you're enjoying yourself out there! I think if you retired after this season, you'd regret it."
When I looked up, Edward's gaze was fixed out the window again and his jaw was clenched.
"Edward…" I whispered, scared of what he was thinking, "Say something please."
Edward let out a loud sigh and looked down, shaking his head back and forth.
"You really want me to play more? To be apart for half the year?"
I bit my lip but nodded, "I…I'll know what to expect in the future now, and maybe I can even travel with you on a few road trips. Your mom would probably let me."
Edward met my eyes, searching them to see if my words were sincere.
"You really think you can handle two more years of this? Of me flying all over the country and us being apart?"
Again I nodded.
"And what if Seattle isn't the best offer? What if I end up in San Francisco or St. Louis or Philadelphia or something?"
"Then I'll move with you," I said confidently, "Edward, I'm marrying you tomorrow, for better or for worse. I just know in my gut though, that if you give up on baseball after this season, you'll regret it."
Edward sighed and leaned closer to me, cupping my cheek.
"How did I get so lucky?" he murmured, his lips barely apart from my own.
"You'll think about it?" I whispered back, knowing he was trying to change the subject. He sighed before pressing his lips softly to mine.
"I'll think about it," He sighed, "but not until the World Series is over."
I held back a sigh. That wasn't particularly the answer I was looking for, but I supposed it was something.
"Besides, I have more important things to think about."
"Like?" I asked, smiling at Edward's playful tone.
"Like where I'm going to take my beautiful wife for our honeymoon in January."
I couldn't help but let out a small squeal when he said the word "wife".
"And where was my beautiful husband thinking about going?"
Edward smirked, "it's a surprise my love."
I couldn't help but pout a little, "You won't even give me a hint?"
"Somewhere warm," Edward smiled, "Or maybe you would enjoy somewhere with snow?"
"Edward!" I laughed, "I want a real hint!"
"Nuh uh," Edward chuckled, "You'll just have to be surprised my love. Consider it a wedding present."
"But how will I know what to pack?" I pouted, jutting my lip out as far as I could.
Edward laughed loudly and pressed his lips soundly against my own before growling in my ear.
"If I have my way, you won't need any clothes."
After that comment, Edward and I spent the rest of the ride in the limo, and the majority of the flight to Port Angeles, making out like two teenagers. It was hard not to get carried away whenever Edward's lips were on mine. Before I knew it, we were driving to Forks with Esme and Carlisle.
"Is everything ready for tomorrow?" Edward asked, my hand clasped in his, and his fingers playing with the ring on my finger.
"Sure is," Carlisle smiled, "That Jane is something else."
"Yes…you don't mess with her," Edward chuckled.
I sighed and rested my head on his shoulder. Despite nothing really being resolved about Edward's career, as I rested against him, his arms wrapping around me, I knew that this was all I would need. As long as I had Edward, life would be perfect. I glanced at the ring that sat on my finger and smiled. Tomorrow night, I would be Mrs. Isabella Cullen.
APOV
October 4th
"Darlin', are you sure this is the right road?"
"Positive," I nodded as Jasper drove us further up the winding dirt road.
"Are Rosalie and Emmett there already?"
"Rosalie said they just got there."
I chuckled as Jasper shifted in his seat and pulled at his tie.
"We really needed to dress up this formally for Edward's grandmother?"
I shrugged, "Edward said that she is quite old fashioned and always dresses up for dinner parties and what not."
"But did I really have to wear a Dolce suit darlin'?"
"Do you not like it?" I gasped.
"Alice, darlin', you know I like anything you pick out for me…but you know I hate to wear ties."
I smiled and placed my hand on top of Jasper's.
"If it makes you feel any better, Rosalie made Emmett wear a tie too."
Jazz simply nodded as we rounded a turn and the house came into view.
"Wow…" Jazz drawled out slowly, "This house is amazing."
"Wait until you see the one Bella designed for she and Edward," I said as Jazz put the car in park.
The weather had turned colder, but I was thankful it wasn't raining in my little hometown. I smiled when I saw Chief Swan's police cruiser. I wondered if he ever took his blue truck out anywhere. The sun was going to set any minute and I pulled my coat around my shoulders tightly as Jasper offered me his arm and walked us towards the front door.
"Alice! Jasper!" Carlisle Cullen smiled when he opened the door.
"Hello Carlisle," I smiled, stepping in, "You look very handsome, and the inside of your house is incredible!"
I looked around in awe as Jasper helped me out of my grey knee length coat. I saw Emmett, Rosalie, Charlie, and Edward, with who I could only assume was Edward's grandmother.
"Well, thank you Alice," Carlisle said, taking our coats from Jasper, "You'll have to let Esme know."
"Alice, that dress is gorgeous!" Rosalie exclaimed as Jazz and I joined the group.
"Thank you. I love yours as well."
Rose looked stunning in a short, strapless navy blue number, with panels of velvet on the side.
"I love the skirt," Rosalie said, fingering the bubble hem of my black and grey dress.
"Ah, I remember when I had a figure that could've fit in dresses like these."
Rose and I both chuckled as we turned to face Edward's grandmother. Edward offered her his arm as he led her closer to where we were all standing.
"Alice, Jasper, this is my Grandmother. Gran, I'd like you to meet Alice and Jasper."
I smiled and gave her a hug and kiss on the cheek, and let out a small giggle at the gasp Gran let out when Jasper placed a kiss on her hand.
"It's a pleasure to meet you ma'am," Jasper said, his Southern accent coming on strong.
"Oh my! Edward, such a Southern gentleman!" Gran exclaimed.
We all chuckled as Jasper turned red. I smiled and wrapped my arm around his waist.
"And such a beautiful fiancé," Gran said, turning her undeniable charm on me. I felt my cheeks heat slightly and she patted my cheek gently.
"My Edward has such wonderful and beautiful friends," she announced to the room. Charlie and Carlisle both chuckled. All the men looked handsome in their black suits, Charlie in all black, and Carlisle mixing it up with a silver striped tie. Emmett, Jasper, and Edward all dressed similarly in black suits with white shirts and black ties. I glanced around, noticing that Bella was nowhere to be seen, and neither was Esme or Sue.
"Hey, where's-"
"Charlie!"
I watched as Charlie jumped at the sound of his name being called.
"Coming Sue!" He called as he headed up the stairs. Esme laughed as Charlie passed her on the stairs.
"Alice! Jasper!" She cried, descending the last stairs and making her way towards us, "Thanking you for coming! I see you've met my mother."
We smiled and nodded. Esme's green dress was incredible as well, the draping and folds fitting her form nicely, and cinched in at the waist. I couldn't believe she had a child that was older that I was! I could only hope I looked half that good when I was her age.
"Shall we head out to the sun room?" Esme asked, looking pointedly at Carlisle.
My brows furrowed. There was clearly something going on here. Sue came down the stairs smiling and joined Esme at her side.
"Is everything ready?"
"Ready," Esme smiled.
"Edward, are you ready?" Carlisle asked.
I stared at Edward as he ran a hand through his chaotic hair. He looked…he looked nervous! I placed my hands on my hips.
"What is going on? Where are Bella and Charlie?"
"I agree," Rosalie said, joining my side, "Something is up."
Edward gave us a small smile.
"Everything will be explained in the sun room. If you follow Sue and my mother…"
Edward gestured for us to follow and Carlisle escorted Gran towards the back of the house. My eyes opened wide as I took in the back room that was hidden from the doorway. It was made up of all glass, the walls going all the way up to the ceiling. To my left, I saw a black baby grand piano, and as I turned to my right, I gasped loudly.
"What…how…Edward?"
He turned and grinned, "Alice and Jasper, if you go with Sue, she'll show you to your seats. Rosalie and Emmett, follow my mother please."
I was speechless as I felt Jasper's hand on my lower back guiding me forward to follow Sue. There was a small aisle, a white strip of carpet, flanked by chairs on each side. I smiled when I saw Nessie and Jake sitting next to an ornate looking table, decorated with vases of white roses and orchids. A man, no, a pastor stood in front of the table, his looks telling me he was from La Push. Looking behind me, I saw that Carlisle had helped Gran to sit at the piano, and was now walking forward to sit next to Esme in front of Emmett and Rosalie.
"You two will be sitting behind Charlie and I," Sue said, breaking me from my daze.
I just nodded dumbly, not believing what was happening. Were they…did…
"Jazzy…are they…is this a…"
Staring at Nessie, I saw that she had a pearl colored satin ribbon tied around her neck, with a small bunch of flowers tied to it. I looked closer at Jake's collar and saw that he had two round rings tied into the satin ribbon that he wore around his neck. I couldn't believe it…Bella had completely fooled me when she picked up her wedding dress from me the other day.
"Are they getting married?" I finally blurted out.
I looked to Sue, Esme, and Carlisle for answers. Each other them were looking at each other smiling and Edward was chuckling softly as he stood next to the pastor. Rosalie and Emmett looked just as surprised, but had put it together the same time I did.
"How did I miss this?" I cried, looking around, "Jazzy, how did we miss this?"
Edward smiled and walked forward so he was in the middle of the aisle, glancing at both Jasper and I, and Rosalie and Emmett.
"I can't thank you all enough for coming today. I'm sorry that we made you think it was purely in celebration of my grandmother visiting. In truth, she really did want to meet you all though."
Edward looked up and smiled towards the back, no doubt looking at his grandmother.
"My mother, Jane, Alec, and I worked hard to keep this occasion a secret from the media, and it's not that we didn't trust you all, but we didn't want to take the chance of it getting out. You never know what these media vultures will do these days, and invitations in the mail or emails or even texts could have been hacked…Bella and I didn't want to take that chance. This is an event we only wanted to share with our families and our best friends."
A throat clearing in the back of the room caught all of our attention.
"Edward, it's time," Gran called out.
Edward stood up straight and gave us all a smile.
"Thank you all for being here today. It means more to Bella and I than we could ever say."
I turned quickly in my seat, leaning in to whisper in Jasper's ear.
"Jazzy, how did Bella get this past me? She's a terrible liar!"
Jasper simply shrugged, "Does it matter? Bella is getting married and she's happy. That's all we could ever hope for her right?"
"Of course," I hissed, "I just wish I knew! I could've helped out or something! Jazzy, I make a living off of planning parties and weddings! Bella is my best friend and I didn't even get her a wedding present!"
"Darlin', I think Bella and Edward will forgive us. Plus like Edward said, their wedding is completely paparazzi free, and this special moment is being kept private, like it should be."
"I just feel bad," I pouted. I really did feel bad. There was so much I could've done to help Bella and Edward pull this together. I knew flower people here in Forks and I'm sure I could've gotten someone to cover the food. I sniffed the air and frowned. If I didn't know any better, Esme and Sue had prepared the food for after the ceremony.
"Darlin', don't you pout," Jasper said, tucking a piece of hair behind my ear, "This is the way Bella and Edward wanted to do things. Just be happy for them. This is the dream wedding that they wanted for themselves. Yours will be happening in February."
I sighed and nodded. Of course Jasper was right. I still felt like I hadn't done a thing for my best friend though. No one deserved a happily ever after ending more than Bella and Edward. I was still a little leery of how quickly they had gotten together, but you could see the changes in both of them. It was those changes that made me believe that this was real, that this was true love that had found Edward and Bella.
I couldn't stop myself from bouncing in my seat as I heard the familiar strains of "Canon in D" begin to float through the air. My best friend was getting married to the man of her dreams.
EPOV
I ran a hand through my hair, tugging on the ends. My mother had suggested I try to tame it in some way with pomade or wax or something. I was ridiculously glad I hadn't listened to her. My nervous tick was going to make me go bald one day. Well…hopefully not. I couldn't imagine many more situations in the future where I would be this nervous. My tie suddenly felt like it was too tight.
People always wonder if athletes or performers get nervous before game time or a concert. I was never that way. Not even when I was 19 years old and starting in my first Major League Baseball game. I had never been nervous until I met Isabella Swan. The first time she came to watch me play in Arizona, my stomach was in knots. The first home game of the season this year, I was an excited mess. When I asked her to marry me…she was lucky those butterflies hadn't caused me to empty the meager contents of my dinner into her lap. Today was different. My stomach was a chaotic mess of knots, but today at least, I wasn't hoping to impress Bella or nervous about her answer. Today, my stomach was a flutter because I was excited beyond belief. Today the love of my life was going to become my wife.
I slipped out early this morning. Bella and I bucked tradition again and spent the night with each other. No sex or anything, just holding each other and the room filled with soft kisses and whispers of adoration. Leaving Bella in the ever capable hands of my mother, grandmother, and Sue, I went for a drive alone before heading back to have lunch with my father. It hadn't originally been my intent to wind up where I did, but I found the peace I had been looking for. I closed my eyes and remembered the feeling of calm after my quick stop at the florist.
Flashback
I was grateful that it wasn't raining this morning as I placed the flowers down and took a seat on the grass. I sighed and cleared away some of the leaves and things that had accumulated. My guess was that her family hadn't been here in a while.
"Hi Tan…" I whispered.
I sat in silence for minutes as the wind blew softly around me. It was cool and I pulled my coat around my shoulders tighter.
"I'm sorry I haven't visited in a while. Baseball season and all," I smiled softly, "We're going to the play offs."
My fingers plucked at the fabric of my jeans.
"I'm getting married to Bella today."
The wind blew against my face and I couldn't help but smile.
"I can't believe it Tan. I…I never thought I would be happy again. I didn't think I deserved it."
I sighed and ran a hand through my hair.
"She's so great Tan. I think you would've really liked her."
I didn't continue, not wanting to think how things would've worked out if Tanya hadn't been killed. Did that mean I would never have met Bella? I closed my eyes and shook my head. There was nothing I could change about the past, and there was definitely nothing I wanted to change about my present.
I told her about the season and everything that had happened since I had been here in February. I frowned when I told her about Irina and then all the troubles I caused by not telling Bella about all of my past. Then I went on to explain about the last few months and how happy we had been.
"I never forgot the dream Tan. I don't know if it was really you visiting me or my subconscious or whatever…I want to believe it was you. I haven't forgotten what you told me. You let me know if I ever mess things up. I owe you so much Tan. I feel like you sent her to me."
I smiled as I traced the words of her name, "My guardian angel. I'll visit again soon. I promise."
I stood and dusted off my jeans.
"I'll see you soon Tan," I whispered.
Turning and walking away, a strong breeze came through, ruffling up my hair. I could've sworn I heard a faint voice saying, "Edward". I stopped and smiled. It was the tone of her voice when she was happy. The last time I heard it was when she called after hearing about me signing with the Mariners. I knew this time, she was happy because of the man I had become, and all the work I had put in to get here.
End Flashback
I shifted in my spot and ran my hand through my hair again. My mother smiled and me and stood up, walking in front of me and fixing my tie.
"How is she?" I whispered, our friends and family in place as Gran started to play "Canon in D".
"She's so happy Edward," My mother smiled and patted my chest, "And she looks so beautiful."
She stretched up on her toes and kissed my cheek.
"I'm so proud of you," she murmured, tears pooling in her eyes, "Oh Edward, my boy…"
I leaned down and placed a kiss on her forehead, "I love you mom."
My father stood and helped my teary mother back to her seat. As I looked into the faces of the sun room, I saw only happiness looking back at me. The morning after our decision to get married, Bella nervously asked me if I would reconsider just having our family there. I knew she would regret not having Alice and Jasper here, as she lived with them for so long and Alice was practically her sister, and if I was being honest, I would regret not having Emmett here. Sure he was immature at times, but he helped Bella and I out a lot more than I could ever say…Rosalie as well. That was when we devised the plot about my Gran wanting to meet all of them for a dinner and what not. We were taking no chances when it came to the possibility of news of our wedding leaking out. This was something sacred to the both of us, and something we did not want to share with the rest of the world.
My Gran was smiling at me as she played from memory. Emmett was grinning at me, his dimples taking up most of his face and Rosalie was smiling softly in return. I chuckled softly to myself as I looked at Alice. She still had a stunned expression on her face and Jasper was whispering in her ear. Sue had turned and was smiling at the back of the room and my father was comforting my mother. These were the faces that made up our family. Alice, Jasper, Emmett, Rosalie…they were family, and I was so happy that they were all here today.
I froze when my Gran switched over to the song that meant my love was coming. Pastor Black patted me on the shoulder as everyone stood and faced the back of the room. The breath that had caught in my throat earlier came out in a loud whoosh. Part of me thought it was ridiculous that Charlie was wearing an all black suit, shirt, and tie. I decided not to read too much into what his choice of dress meant. My eyes were only focused on Bella and the exquisite dress she was wearing.
The only thing I had been told about the dress in advance was that there was no train. Bella didn't want to be worried about tripping over anything, and quite frankly, even if there had been one, I probably wouldn't have noticed. Bella looked so beautiful and ethereal. Her face was glowing and she smiled wider with each step she took that brought her closer to me. Her hair was swept up in some sort of twist, and I spied a white flower pinned in her hair on the left side. The dress was beautiful…I knew it was strapless and there was lace, beading, silk ribbons, and some shiny material going on…but nothing looked more beautiful than the smile on her face as Charlie paused with her in front of me.
"Take care of her Edward."
I could only nod, stunned by the emotions I saw in the Chief's eyes. This was his little girl that he was trusting me with. It would be my reason in life to make her happy for the rest of our days. I took Bella's hand from his and I could feel my own eyes begin to prickle as a tear escaped down Bella's cheek. I couldn't stop myself as I reached up and wiped it away.
"I hope these are happy tears," I whispered to just Bella.
"More than you know," Bella barely choked out, a smile still gracing her lips.
With one more squeeze of her fingers, we both turned to face Pastor Black. Pastor Billy Black was a good friend of Charlie and Sue's, and a life long fishing buddy of the Chief. We had a conference phone call with him when we had initially began planning our rather last minute wedding. My heart felt like it would burst from happiness and love as he told Bella and I that he had never spoken to a couple more in love than us.
I was in a daze as I looked at Bella. There was no way I could even tell you what Pastor Black was even saying. All of my attention was dedicated to the beautiful woman in front of me. It was a good decision that Bella and I decided to just go the traditional route with our vows. I never would've remembered mine otherwise. As it was we were both so lost in each other that we both missed our cues from Pastor Black to repeat after him. Bella's hands were trembling as she slipped the silver band on to my finger, and tears finally slipped down my cheeks as I placed the delicate silver and diamond encrusted band on hers.
It almost didn't feel real when I finally heard the words, "you may kiss the bride". Bella and I rushed each other instantly and I wrapped her in my arms, my lips quickly finding hers. It seemed too good to be true and I couldn't imagine feeling any happier than I did right at this moment. Bella's hands curled into my hair and my hands splayed across her bare shoulders and lower back. Bella is my wife. My wife. I pressed her closer to me, sucking her lower lip in between my own. My body literally felt like it would explode, the happiness and love I felt being too much to be contained.
Leave it to Emmett's wolf whistle to disrupt everything and make Jake and Nessie start barking like mad.
Bella's cheeks were bright crimson as we parted. I heard a soft chuckle from behind me from Pastor Black and I saw Chief Swan trying in vain to hide a grimace. My mother and every other female in the room had tears rolling down their cheeks and Jasper was comforting a bawling Alice.
It seemed like everyone had a camera and I preferred that over having a professional taking pictures of Bella and I. We felt like this way things would stay more private for us and our friends and family. Alice was in her element as she posed us in various places around the house and there were some beautiful shots that were taken. I definitely knew there would be a bunch that would be framed and displayed in the new house.
I learned that Bella's dress was her something new, the earrings she was wearing were her something old from my grandmother (a gift from my grandfather), her something blue was her garter my mother bought her, and the flower that I had seen pinned in her hair was actually fake, and her something borrowed from Sue.
"I can't believe you guys were able to keep this a secret!" Alice exclaimed as we all sat down at my family's expansive dinner table.
My mother prepared an elaborate feast, even complete with a three tier wedding cake.
Bella chuckled softly at my side and snuggled against me, "Edward explained why we did it though right?"
"Well, yeah," Alice responded, "But you are the worst secret keeper ever Bella! I still can't believe I didn't see this coming!"
"Oh darlin', get over it," Jasper chuckled, "we just watched our friends get married. What else is there to say?"
"Congratulations!" Emmett boomed, causing the entire table to laugh loudly.
Our dinner was simple and our friends and families continued to snap pictures at will. I ended up with cake all over my face as Bella and I cut the cake. I threatened to do the same, but I couldn't go through with it…she looked too beautiful. As everyone was sitting in the sun room and enjoying some coffee and tea with dessert, I joined my mother in the kitchen.
"Is everything else ready?" I asked, picking up a towel to dry some of the dishes.
"Leave that dear," My mother stilled my hand, "And yes, everything is ready."
I leaned my back against the counter and rested my elbows on top of it.
"I can't thank you guys enough mom."
My mother chuckled softly, "Well, you just make sure you give that Jane a raise. She helped me with quite a bit."
"I will," I chuckled, "And thank you for letting everyone stay here too."
"Honey," my mother paused and turned to face me, "You know your father and I would do anything for you and Bella. Your friends are darling and you know me. I love to entertain."
I couldn't help but smile. My mother was happy to have a house full of guests. I had missed her smile for a long time. It made me wonder how I was ever able to stay away from my parents for so long. A loud whining drew my attention towards the door.
"What's the matter Nessie?" I asked, walking over and bending down to scratch her ears. I could hear Jake barking from down the hall.
"I guess they're ready for bed," My mother said, coming up behind me and placing a hand on my shoulder. Nessie barked loudly and licked my hand.
"Perhaps Bella and I should be off then," I said standing back up and stretching a bit. It had been a long day and unfortunately Bella and I were heading back to Seattle tomorrow. Not that I was too tired to enjoy our wedding night…
As I walked back to the sun room, I saw that Alice and Rosalie were standing by one of the windows with Bella, gushing over her dress still. Bella told me Alice had found her dress, and Emmett explained to me why he and Rosalie weren't taking a walk down the aisle…apparently there was something about fashion between women that I just didn't understand. Not that I cared to either. Bella could wear a paper bag and I would still think my wife was beautiful. My wife. I couldn't stop repeating the words in my head.
I knelt down next to my grandmother first.
"Thank you for everything Gran," I said softly. She smiled and lifted a hand to pat my cheek.
"I'm so proud of you boy. Bella is a lovely girl. I couldn't have hoped for better for you."
"She can't wait to visit you in New York."
"When are you coming? Be sure you tell Charlotte…this old woman is bound to forget."
"What old woman?" I chuckled.
Gran reached over and slapped my shoulder as I laughed.
"Don't tease your grandmother," she shook her finger at me.
"Edward is teasing you?"
I couldn't help but smile as I heard the sound of my wife's voice behind me. My body and soul felt complete as Bella's arm wrapped her arm around my waist and snuggled against my side. I grinned down at her as I wrapped my arm around her waist in return.
"Gran thinks she's old," I said quietly.
"Old, but not deaf boy!"
Bella giggled and let go of me to kiss Gran on the cheek.
"Thank you so much for everything Mrs. Plat-"
"Uh uh," Gran said, raising her hand and cutting Bella off, "It's Gran now, and you're family Bella."
Bella leaned back in and gave Gran a hug whispering, "Thank you so much Gran. For everything."
Standing back up, Bella swiped a tear that had escaped her eye from her cheek. I had been a little worried that today might've been hard for Bella. I imagined that every girl wanted their mother at their wedding, but I didn't press when Bella flat out said Renee was NOT coming. She promised to tell me one day what had really happened between them, but it wasn't something I was going to nag her about. There was no reason to ruin our newly wedded bliss with stories from the past.
I leaned over and kissed Gran on the cheek.
"Thank you so much Gran. I love you."
"Congratulations Edward and Bella."
Wrapping our arms back around each other's waists, Bella and I started to walk towards where Alice, Jasper, Rosalie, and Emmett were sitting.
"Are you ready to go love?" I whispered into her ear.
Bella smiled widely as she looked back up at me, "We're staying at the inn?"
I just smiled as we came to our friends. Emmett clapped me on the back, knocking the wind out of me and proceeded to pick Bella up and swing her around in a circle. Rosalie rolled her eyes and gave me a hug and kiss on the cheek, and tugged Bella out of Emmett's arms, punching him in the shoulder for messing up Bella's hair. Jasper and I both chuckled softly as we shook hands and he pulled me into a hug whispering "congratulations." Alice gave me a huge hug and squeezed me so hard that I agreed with Bella about Alice's freakish strength. Instead of congratulations from Alice though, she threatened my balls and any future children I may plan on fathering if I ever hurt Bella. Her words were duly noted. Truly I expected that from Chief Swan.
Bella was a mess as she hugged and said goodbye to Sue and Charlie. Sue wiped the tears from her cheeks and also Bella's, sharing a girl moment about waterproof make-up. Charlie shook my hand and to my surprise, pulled me into a hug.
"Thank you Edward," He whispered, "Make my girl happy."
"It's what I live for Sir," I whispered back.
The chief pulled back and gave me a manly slap on the shoulder, "Call me Charlie."
Bella was positively beaming at my side as she heard her father's words and before I knew it she flung herself into his arms, hugging him tightly.
"I love you Daddy," I heard her murmur.
"Love you too Bells."
Tears were streaming down Bella's face when she pulled away and she quickly tucked herself into my side as we headed towards my parents.
"Are you all right love?" I whispered, kissing the top of her head.
Bella nodded, "It's all so overwhelming…in a good way. I'm so happy Edward."
I paused before we reached my parents and kissed Bella soundly.
"I've never been happier love," I whispered against her lips before placing another kiss on her luscious lips.
Bella went to my mother first, and it warmed my heart as I watched my mother envelope her in a tight embrace. My mother knew that Bella was missing that relationship with her own mother, and gladly stepped in to be whatever Bella needed, especially today. Both of the most important women in my life had tears streaming down their cheeks as I looked away and shook hands with my father. He pulled me into a tight hug and kissed my forehead, something he hand done since I was a small boy.
"I'm so happy and proud of you Edward," He said quietly.
"Thank you Dad," I said, holding him a little tighter. I never forgot that it was my father back in December that made the first push towards my…redemption and finding Bella.
"We'll see you tomorrow?"
"I think we'll be here," I grinned, looking at my beautiful wife, swiping at her cheeks yet again.
My father chuckled, "While I don't even want to think about what you'll be doing that could prevent you from being here tomorrow, I'll just say congratulations again and your mother and I will definitely see you at your game."
I smiled and clapped my father on the shoulder as Bella and I switched places.
"Oh Edward!" My mother cried, her tears starting up again.
"Mom…" I chuckled, "No more tears."
"I'm just so happy for you and Bella, baby."
"I could never thank you and dad enough," I whispered.
"Bella is perfect for you Edward. Treasure her, love her, make her happy…"
"Until the day I take my last breath."
My mother pulled back and kissed my cheek softly.
"You've come so far Edward. I'm so proud of you. We'll see you at your game."
My brows furrowed, "Not tomorrow morning?"
My mother laughed and patted my chest, "Oh honey, your father is deluding himself if he thinks you and Bella will be at brunch tomorrow. You're newly weds honey. We'll see you in Seattle."
My cheeks heated as my mother stepped away to join the rest of our friends and family. Bella took my hands in hers and leaned up to kiss me. Everyone cheered and smiled as Bella and I made our way to the rented Mercedes I got for us. I gave a final wave after helping Bella into the car and jumping behind the wheel. As I drove down the winding road in the trees, I took Bella's hand in mine and brought it to my lips, placing a kiss where her rings now sat on her hand.
"I love you Mrs. Cullen."
Bella giggled, "I quite like the sound of that Mr. Cullen."
You could feel the happiness in the air in the small confines of the car, and as I took the left instead of the right that would have taken us back towards the main road and town, you could feel Bella's confusion seep in.
"Edward, where are we…" She paused, "Why are we going to the house?"
"I have a surprise for you my love."
"Edward…" Bella's voice was low and the way she drew my name out, I knew it was her "warning" tone.
"This is a surprise I know you'll love Bella."
"Pretty confident of yourself there Mr. Cullen."
"Only because I know you so well Mrs. Cullen," I grinned.
I heard Bella's sharp intake of breath as the house came into view. It truly was magnificent, and I couldn't imagine how Bella must've felt to see her dream house lit up and the outside completely finished. I made a mental note to turn the timers on the lights off tomorrow when we left.
"Oh my…Edward, it's…" Bella stuttered out. While she had been sick she obviously hadn't been out to the site, and then my mother started Bella on her new project, and then we were planning our wedding. This was the first time Bella was seeing the practically finished house. All that was left was for the furniture to be delivered and to let my mother loose and work her interior decorating talent.
"Bella, love, you designed us the perfect house."
Hitting the remote I had in the car, the garage door slowly began to lift open and Bella's eyes lit up the same way they had when I had taken her to Disneyland. After parking the car, I jogged around the front, helping Bella from the car. Grabbing the two small bags from the trunk, I opened the door that lead into the massive living room. I raised a hand to stop Bella.
"Baby, can you hold these?" I asked, offering her the bags.
"Okay…EDWARD!" Bella shrieked as I lifted her into my arms, nearly smacking me in the face with one of our bags. Maybe I should have thought this through a little more…
After avoiding taking a duffle bag to the nose, I kicked the door shut with my foot as I walked across the wide open living room. I paused in the middle of the room, turning in a slow circle so Bella and I could take everything in.
The cherry wood flooring was brand new and unmarred, the walls were a fresh coat of white, the large staircase that led up to the other floors in the corner…I could almost see the finished product.
"Edward…" Bella gasped softly.
I leaned forward and pressed a kiss to her temple, "Welcome home baby."
"I…what?" Bella asked, clearly confused, "Edward, there's nothing in here…"
I couldn't help but grin as I began to walk towards the stairs.
"My mother and I may have made sure that there was one room in particular that was furnished by tonight…"
My wife at least had to foresight to not attempt to kiss me on the lips as I carried us up the stairs to the third floor. Though her lips attacking my neck and the spot below my ear were not much better. Had this been any other night, I'm sure I would've considered just having my way with her on the stairs…
After what seemed like an eternity (and now had me considering putting the master bedroom on the first floor), I opened the door to our new bedroom. Bella gasped loudly, our bags dropping to the floor and her now empty hands flying to cover her mouth.
"Oh my God…Edward…"
While Bella and Alice had picked out the furniture for the house, I knew she had changed her mind about the bed she had originally wanted for our bedroom because she thought it was too expensive. Fuck if I really knew what kind of wood the bed was made from, but it was black, king sized, and there was a padded leather headboard. The sheets and pillows I had proudly picked out myself. I may not know a lot about design or decorating or whatever, but I can make stylish matches. The sheets were white, but an elegant silvery comforter lay on top, followed by gold and black pillows.
"You bought the bed…" Bella said quietly. I set her slowly to her feet and she laced her hand in mine as she walked forward a few steps.
It was actually the only furniture in the room for now. The bedside tables and all the other stuff was being delivered in the coming weeks with everything else. Thank God there was lighting installed and we weren't relying on lamps or anything that needed to be delivered.
"Do you like it?"
When Bella turned around to look at me, I knew this was more than perfect. She quickly closed the distance between us and threw her arms around me, pressing her lips firmly to mine.
"I love it…" She kissed me, "Thank you," kissed me again, "Thank you," and again, "Thank you!"
I smiled as I let my hands rest gently on Bella's hips and pressed a kiss into her forehead.
"The bathroom is stocked with towels and all of the plumbing is running smoothly," I said quietly.
Bella smiled and ran her hands up and down my arms.
"Though I love this dress, I would like to change into something more comfortable. I'll be out in a bit."
She gave me a quick kiss and a smirk before grabbing her bag from the floor and disappearing into the adjoining bathroom. I sighed and slipped off my jacket, loosening my tie and throwing it to the side. I had to agree with Bella, I loved that dress as well. The image of her walking down the aisle towards me would forever be seared into my brain. So beautiful and perfect…
I slipped off my shoes and socks, the plush carpet feeling wonderful under my feet. Walking over to the doors that lead to the balcony, I looked out at our view of the forest. I could see the break in the trees where the meadow that lay behind my childhood house was, and smiled, knowing I had to take Bella to see it next summer when all of the flowers were in bloom.
My thoughts took another direction, choosing to ignore the one that was blaring in my mind, telling me I had no idea what I would be doing next summer. I chose instead to think of places to take Bella on our honeymoon. We decided on January because of the festivities that took up the months of November and December. If the Mariners made it to the World Series, I'd be playing into November anyway…not to mention that regardless of if we won the World Series or not, there would be all kinds of press and crap for me to take care of. Not to mention the decision about my future. I shook my head again and continued on to better thoughts. December was out because of Christmas and New Year's, so that left the soonest available time for our honeymoon to be January.
I sighed and closed my eyes. A honeymoon. I was thinking about a honeymoon because I had a wife. Bella had enjoyed out trip to Vancouver, and I wondered if she would enjoy a winter getaway. Then again, would she rather have an escape from the cold and the dreary, and enjoy some place like Hawaii? Like the weather ever got bad there. The last time I was there, it was pouring rain but still sunny, and then a minute later the rain was gone…how does that even work? I smiled, the decision made in my mind. My girl traveled so little in her life, and this would be perfect. I heard the bathroom door open again and feeling pretty damn good about myself and my decision, I turned around with a big grin on my face.
And Jesus Christ if my heart didn't stop and my jaw fall off my face.
"Do you like it Mr. Cullen?"
Both of my heads were currently fighting with each other over which white dress they liked better. If what she was wearing right now could ever be called a dress…
"Bella…" was all I was able to mumble out.
She smirked and started walking towards me slowly, a little extra sway in her hips.
"I take that as a yes," she purred.
I think it was a dress…well, lingerie of some sort. It was really fucking short and as she walked towards me I saw it billow out behind her, telling me that there was no back to this dress. It was white and satin and there was black lace near her boobs that looked incredible and I couldn't really tell you much else other than her hair was down. She stopped a few steps in front of me and turned in a slow circle.
"Holy fuck…" I muttered.
Just like I thought, the thing was backless and tied together in the back and all she was wearing was a flimsy white g string underneath it all. My pants were too tight about 5 minutes ago. Bella stopped and faced me, slowly running her hands up my arms and to the back of my neck.
"This is all for you my husband," Bella whispered, standing on her toes and pressing a kiss to my lips. She continued on along my jaw and my hands found purchase on her hips, holding on to her tightly.
"Bella…" I moaned, her tiny body pressing flush against mine.
"Mmmm…" Bella hummed, "I love you Edward Cullen. You make me so happy."
"Not as much as I love you Bella Cullen."
We had done this numerous times before…well, I take that back, Bella has never worn sexy lingerie like this for me before…but this time it felt different as lips kissed and hands explored, slowly removing clothing and letting it drop to the floor.
"I love you," I whispered as our bare skin pressed against each other, our lips barely apart from each other.
It didn't take long to find Bella and I on the bed sitting up and facing each other. Every movement was slow, but full of the love and devotion we had for each other. I gasped and Bella moaned loudly as I finally brought us together, sighing as I sank into her completely, this position allowing me to go so deep. I didn't think there was any way this could be described as anything other than heaven, ecstasy, perfection…there was nothing that compared to the feeling of making love to my wife for the first time.
"Edward…Edward…" Bella murmured, our eyes on each other the entire time.
I rocked us slowly, our lips meeting occasionally and I moaned as her tiny hands smoothed over the muscles of my back, tracing each line and dent. I closed my lips and let my lips wander, nipping at the column of her throat as her hands curled into my hair and sucking along the swells of her breasts. As I sucked a nipple into my mouth, Bella cried out loudly, pushing against me more urgently. Tugging hard on my hair, my lips found hers again.
"Edward…Oh God…more…" Bella panted. I knew when the begging started, she was close and I was barely hanging on myself.
"Come for me love," I murmured, pressing our hips harder against each other.
Bella whimpered as our lips nipped at each other again, both our breathing going ragged.
"I…love…you…Edward…" Bella yelled, completely lost and I groaned as her body tightened around mine, barely allowing me to move.
I called out her name in return, but two simple words from her was all it took to drive my completely over the edge.
She gripped my hair tightly, her lips right next to my ear, "My husband…"
Never had I come so hard in my life, moaning loudly as I exploded inside her warmth. I clung to her body tightly, wanting the feeling to last forever. Somehow I managed to collapse to our sides, rolling us so I was no longer crushing Bella, yet still keeping us connected. My eyes were closed as my chest heaved and I could feel the beat of Bella's heart against my skin.
"I love you Edward Cullen…" Bella panted out softly, her fingers curling slightly against my chest.
"Mmmm…me too…"
A tiny hand smacked me right in the middle of the chest.
"Sorry, sorry…" I chuckled, "I love you Isabella Marie Cullen."
"That's better."
We were silent for a few moments before Bella slowly sat up and began pulling me to the shower. I took my time washing her with a calming lavender soap my mother had left in here for us. Bella of course returned the favor, kneading my sore shoulder muscles as she went.
"You know," Bella started, as she came back around to the front of me, "I…I think I really liked that um…that position."
I smirked as I looked down at her, cheeks completely crimson and her bottom lip sucked between her teeth. My wife, my little goddess, was still so shy…but at least she wasn't too shy to admit to what she liked. I leaned down and pressed a kiss to the side of her neck.
"There are dozens more for us to try out love," I whispered in her ear.
Bella gasped softly, but turned her head, her lips brushing against my jaw.
"We have all night right?" She asked in that timid yet somehow ridiculously sexy tone of hers.
"Baby, we have the rest of our lives together."
Well? Yes? No? Apologies that it took forever. Apparently when I come home for the first two weeks all I care about is my dog, the beach, local food, and my friends & family…hope we all liked it.
#1. I know the greater majority of you aren't even going to read this until AFTER June 30th, so I say to you all "Happy 'Eclipse' Day"! Let me know in your review how you liked the movie! (Go Team Jasper and Team Seth…c'mon, Edward's a given…)
#2. Pictures of everything from this chapter are on my website. Go look if you're curious. :-D And seriously, like I'd ever leave Alice, Jasper, Rosalie, and Emmett out of the wedding…
#3. Everyone say "thank you" to eternally_addicted! Say it. Right Now. Okay good. She helped me get my thoughts in order for this bad boy. Go read her story and give her reviews. :-D
#4. Let me know what you guys thought, good or bad, pretty please? Hate to say it, but shit hits the fan in two chapters…enjoy the happy. YAY "Eclipse"! (and the "Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows" trailer :-P)