The Twilight Saga belongs to Stephenie Meyer, Summit Entertainment and anyone else who may legally claim ownership. No copyright infringement is intended.
I still don't have a computer.
This chapter was written in the notes app on an iPhone.
Updates will happen, much more quickly than the last gap between chapters. However, they will take longer than when I was regularly updating the first chapters, touch typing on a computer.
There is also autocorrect involvement, and I'm sure replacement errors.
You may find a mix of British and American English. I've tried to keep this story in American English but my autocorrect is British English.
Most notably, I no longer have a beta reader.
Considering all of these circumstances, I apologize for the mistakes I'm sure I , forgive the many mistakes I'm sure you will find as you read.
If anyone remembers my original version, when I was redoing the chapters I lost everything after what was already posted here. So, what I'm posting now will be going in a new, hopefully, better, direction.
There has been some time, years, between chapters; so, I hope it flows smoothly. No one but me has read this chapter, so I don't have a second opinion.
Without further ramblings, I give you chapter 21, a fluffy transitional chapter with little, if any, substance.
Chapter 21: Return
Their plane landed smoothly at a tiny private airfield in Forks. A flight attendant, secluded unless they needed him, opened the door for them. The Cullen jet was big enough for Carlisle and Bella to easily make their way down the stairs side by side, and hand in hand. The clouds were heavy but there wasn't a hint of rain in the late afternoon air, nice weather for the fifth of November in Forks.
A wolf whistle caught their attention. Emmett's voice boomed a wholly inappropriate greeting. "Looking hot there, Bella. You must have enjoyed your honeymoon." The words weren't too bad, but Emmett's tone was replete with innuendo. Of course, his madly wagging eyebrows were the comic relief his tone needed.
At the sound of Emmett's whistle, Bella's foot slipped. Carlisle steadied her without missing a beat. She gave her head a slight shake as she imagined Alice's reaction if she'd damaged her ivory suede Channel boots. When she opened her outfit for the day she had rolled her eyes and wondered how long Alice was going to keep dressing her in the same color family. She didn't have to wonder long, Alice had included a note. It seemed she would be clad in bride like colors for one month after the date of their real wedding in Maine. She had sighed resignedly, a month wasn't that long when you were going to have all of eternity. Still, she shook her head ruefully and promised herself never to make blind clothing agreements with Alice again. It had been, after all, her choice to agree to it. Today's coming home ensemble was a flowing, waistless, below the knee-length dress with intricate lace sleeves, warm thigh-high socks that matched the ivory of the dress perfectly, as did the heavy crop sweater Alice included. The sweater had knit flowers adorning the shoulders and trailing down. The ivory suede, flat, Channell mid boots were the finishing touch.
As soon as Bella's first foot hit earth she and Carlisle were engulfed in a bouncing Alice hug. "It's so good to have you home!"
After Alice came Esme, who embraced them gently in turn. Her tone was filled with love for both of them. "My dears, may you have all the happiness in the world, forever."
Jasper was next, "Carlisle, may I kiss your bride?" His Southern charm was not lost on the assembled.
Carlisle laughed good naturally. "Of course, Jasper. You needn't ask." Jasper kissed Bella's cheek, then extended his hand to Carlisle who took it, holding Jasper's elbow with his other hand in a manly embrace. He looked Jasper in the eyes. "Thank you, son, for everything." Jasper nodded and moved aside to avoid being hit with Bella as Emmet swung her around.
"Hurry up and change her Carlisle, he said as he lowered Bella to the ground. I want to give my sister a proper hug." He moved to Carlisle and slapped him on the back. This time he didn't restrain his vampiric strength. "You got a good one, pops."
"Pops?" Bella asked.
"Well, yeah, and that makes you my new mommy." Everyone laughed at Emmett's teasing.
Edward approached the couple, smiling. He looked deeply into Carlisle's eyes and spoke softly. "Bella, you got the very best of men."
Bella gazed at Carlisle in adoration. "I certainly did."
Carlisle drew Edward into a hug that included Bella.
Carlisle's supernatural senses allowed him to notice Esme discretely, but sharply, jab Rosalie with her elbow. Grudgingly Rosalie glanced at the couple standing several feet away. She nodded curtly and mumbled one word. 'Congratulations." Her tone reeked of insincerity.
The chill and dampness of the autumn evening were kept at bay by the crackling fire in the Cullen's sitting room. The family was settled around the room. Carlisle and Bella sat nearest the fire, as only Bella needed external warmth. Her large ivory satchel sat on the floor beside her. The room was warm enough that she had removed her sweater. The threads of her dress's intricate lace sleeves sparkled slightly in the firelight. In her hand, she held a mug of hot cocoa topped with Esme's homemade vanilla whipped cream. Similarly, the others held mugs. Each containing blood, warmed to body temperature, in their favorite variety.
Carlisle cleared his throat and the quiet conversations ceased as everyone turned their attention to their leader. He smiled. "We have gifts for you." Alice looked as excited as Rosalie looked irritated.
Unnoticed, Bella fingered the bracelet watch on her wrist, which was hidden from view by her sleeve. The watch face was covered by the new Cullen crest; which slid to the side if you wanted to see the time. The watch was a simple design in platinum and eighteen karat yellow gold, bearing a sleek carved and oxidized version of the new Cullen crest. On her right hand, she still wore Carlisle's old crest ring. His that he had given her when he had no other ring ready for her. She treasured it, even though it dwarfed her finger.
Carlisle toyed with the large ring on his right pinky. He addressed the room. "You wear my crest, a symbol that we are family, with ties stronger than mere shared DNA. Each part of the crest you wear has a special meaning. The lion represents strength and ferocity, a characteristic of vampires. The hand is for faith and sincerity, we Cullens are loyal to each other. The Trifolium or trefoils at the bottom represent our perpetually, our immortality, our inability to die naturally. This was my crest I shared with you, my family, that you wear now. Everyone, please, remove them."
They all looked puzzled but did as Carlisle asked. Esme removed her Cullen crest bracelet. Rosalie took off her necklace, and Alice undid her choker, while Jasper and Emmett removed their wristbands. Edward had no crest to remove, Carlisle had destroyed it when Edward thoughtlessly injured Bella.
Alice's voice was small and tentative, "Carlisle, are you breaking up our family. I didn't see that. That's something I should have seen coming."
Carlisle's voice was both certain and soothing. "No, Alice, never. Our family is unbreakable."
Alice beamed. "Then, please, continue Carlisle."
Carlisle laughed at Alice's feigned haughtiness. "I have a new crest. So, I have new family crests for you. There have been some changes and some additions. The rampant lion has now risen to his hind legs. He has waded waist-deep in water,
In his arms, he holds a beautiful floating swan who rests her head trustingly on his shoulder. This displays our commitment to not only a vegetarian lifestyle, but also that humans are safe with us. The water shows that we are willing to brave unknown depths to protect humans and live in peace and love with them."
Jasper's drawl filled the small gap in Carlisle's speech. "Much like when you were a newborn, you were unaware of the fact you could live on animal blood alone. Your desire to keep humans safe was so strong you braved those uncharted waters. You created a new way of life for vampires. If only more of us would follow your example."
"I believe they will, one day." Carlisle's voice was hopeful. "Now, on my crest, the hand now wears a wedding band. This hand continues to express our faith, sincerity, and loyalty to every member of our family. But, now also symbolizes the pledging of our troth to another. Each married, or mated, member of our family will have a crest with the hand wearing a wedding band. When a single member of our family's status changes, they will be gifted a new crest with a wedding band.
The trefoils have not changed, they still signify our immortality."
Emmett, who had looked thoughtful since Carlisle explained the symbolism of the swan, spoke. "But, we'd drink a swan. It's an animal."
Carlisle chuckled. "I doubt that, very much. Although their meat was considered a delicacy and served frequently at royal banquets of the past, I doubt you'd be full and sated by a swan's blood, Emmett. Even if you drank it as an appetiser. However, the swan on my crest isn't a swan."
Emmett looked confused. "The swan isn't a swan?"
Jasper laughed. "It's Bella you bonehead."
Carlisle continued, "Jasper's partially right. The swan on our new family crest is inspired by Isabella. It represents the safety of a human living with us, a family of vampires. It demonstrates our commitment to protect and care for humanity despite our predatory nature towards them; and their vulnerability.
Bella stood, her skirt flowing around her. She reached into her satchel and handed each Cullen a jewellery box. When she reached Edward her hands were empty. She gave him a small brief smile and returned to sit beside Carlisle, Edward hung his head. A tense moment passed and Carlisle rose. He moved to stand before Edward. Edward couldn't meet Carlisle's eyes, so Carlisle reached out and took Edwards's hands. Into them, he pressed a jewellery box. At this, Edward looked up at Carlisle who spoke three words. "My first son." Edwards's eyes moved to the box in his hands and he gazed at it in wonder as Carlisle sat back down with Bella. "Edward, I believe, as does Bella, that you have learned from your mistakes. That you have grown into an empathetic person who can now love without conditions or dominance. I know you will prove our faith in you is well placed. This second crest, this second chance, you, Edward Cullen, have earned it. Wear my crest as a reminder of the good man you have grown into."
As if that were their cue, the family all clasped their new crests on. The remainder of the evening was passed with everyone inspecting each other's new family crest. Then, the conversation turned to Maine and the original reason for the trip. Photos of their new home, the towns, and the beautiful surrounding forests, mountains, and coastline were passed around. Only Rosalie seemed unenthusiastic, she remained sullen throughout.
The house was empty except for Carlisle and Bella, everyone else had gone on a hunt the previous night when Bella began to tire and they had yet to return. Carlisle had moved into Bella's room in the Cullen home, he preferred it to his own. It was here Bella donned her armor for the morning, an ivory denim skirt, a long-sleeved ivory tee, ivory thigh high socks, her ivory suede Channel boots, and to top it all off, a stunning ivory leather jacket. She was ready to face Forks. Or so she hoped. She turned to see Carlisle, handsome in black trousers, topped by a form-fitting Stefano Ricci dress shirt in midnight blue with a thin silk tie. She smiled and moved to him. After clasping his cufflinks she stood on tiptoe and planted a quick kiss on his lips. As she turned, he caught her and drew her to him. "You look lovely today, Mrs. Cullen."
She laughed. "You're not so bad yourself, Dr. Cullen."
He dipped his head and took her lips with his. Several hours later Carlisle tossed on the scarf that matched his tie. "It looks like we'll be meeting your father first." Carlisle had taken additional leave, he wasn't formally back at work until after the holidays. They had been told by Alice to be seen around town today, as people should start getting their invitations the next day. Alice hadn't given them much time. They had six days until their public encore wedding.
Their first stop was the diner, to meet Bella's father for lunch. When they entered Bella had moved to sit across from Carlisle at their corner table to wait for her father, but Carlisle gently grasped her hand. "We've done nothing wrong, let's not act as if we have." Bella smiled, nodded almost imperceptibly, and sat beside her husband. She had her satchel with her, to hide Carlisle's meal in. She placed it, unzipped on the floor between their feet.
They barely had time to notice all the glances they were getting when the bell over the door jingled, announcing Charlie's arrival. He made his way quickly to Carlisle and Bella, returning fellow customers greetings as he passed. Bella stood as soon as Charlie reached them, he engulfed his daughter in a hug. When they parted Charlie reached around and bent down to Carlisle who was somewhat trapped in position behind Bella. The men clasped hands, much like Carlisle and Jasper had the previous day. Their affection for each other was obvious to the onlookers. Charlie took a seat across from the couple. " So, Bells, how was Maine? What'd you and Carlisle get up to?" Not being a subtle man, Charlie visibly cringed when he realized some of the double meaning in his words. "I mean—"
Carlisle uncharacteristically interrupted him as a means of rescue. "Maine's a beautiful place, Charlie. You'll have to come and look at all the photos we took. Are you busy after work?"
"That'd be great."
The awkwardness broken, conversation flowed easily throughout the meal. So much so that they managed to ignore the curious eyes on them from all around the diner. Bella contributed here and there, but she was content watching her father and her new husband learn to appreciate each other.
Charlie signalled for their server. "I already stayed longer than I should. I gotta get back to the station."
"Then, you go on, let me get this, Charlie." The look on Charlie's face prompted Carlisle to continue. "You can get it next time."
Charlie nodded. "Okay, then." He turned to Bella, his tone authoritative. "Bells, call your mom."
Carlisle wasn't on duty, so he held Bella's hand as they crossed the hospital parking lot. No one had seemed to notice. Unlike the diner, people here had more important things to do than drum up gossip. Well, all except for the hospital break rooms, Carlisle thought. As soon as they were through the doors Dr. Kenny's head snapped up, almost as if she'd somehow scented Carlisle. Even in his thoughts, Carlisle was rarely rude, but he had admitted to himself that Dr. Kenny had more than one animalistic trait.
"Carlisle." She practically growled as she moved to him swiftly, ignoring Bella. "We have missed you so much."
Repulsed, Carlisle gently removed Dr. Kenny's offending hand from his person, as Bella hid a small laugh with a dainty cough. "I'm not officially back, Doctor. I just came in to check on a few things."
Dr. Kenny tried to pout prettily, but it came out as more of a petulant scowl. Before she could speak again, a young doctor, obviously fresh out of residency joined them. "You must be Dr. Cullen, I'm Dr. Conway."
Carlisle extended his hand. "I hear you've been doing a fine job in my absence, doctor."
"Call me Mike, please. I've tried, doctor, but your reputation is unmatched."
Carlisle smiled in genuine humility. "I doubt that." Carlisle turned to Bella as he continued to speak to Dr. Conway. "This is—
Dr. Kenny cut across Carlisle rudely. "No one of consequence. She's just a young girl who helps out MSF."
Ignoring Dr. Kenny, Carlisle held out his hand, palm up to Bella. When Bella placed her hand in his, and Carlisle drew her around Dr. Kenny back to his side, her engagement ring flashed with fire in the overhead lighting, drawing attention to her wedding band as well. "May I present my wife, Isabella Cullen? She is one of the area's top fundraisers and recruiters for Doctors Without Borders." Carlise's smile seemed somehow brighter than Bella's ring.
"It's nice to meet you, Dr. Conway." As they shook hands Dr. Kenny's face twisted in jealously before she stormed off. Her inappropriate stilettos clacking loudly as she went.
Carlisle and Bella had made the full rounds that day. Topping it off by stopping in most of the local shops to make purchases they really didn't need.
On the way home Carlisle pulled the Mercedes over, so Bella could call her mother without a whole house of vampires listening.
Bella held the phone to her ear and was just about to hang up when a breathless Phil answered. He explained that they were just pulling up when they heard the phone from the driveway. They exchanged niceties and Phil passed the phone to Bella's mom.
Bella wasn't really listening as her mom went on about baseball, the weather, and had just started in on the colleges in Florida when Bella interrupted her. "Mom." Her mother's chatter ceased. "Mom, there's something I have to tell you."
"This sounds serious." Her mom said half-jokingly.
"It is, mom."
"You're not pregnant are you?" The alarm in her mother's voice was clear.
"No, mom, I'm not pregnant."
"Oh, well, that's a relief you're too young to have to get married."
"Yeah, mom, I don't have to get married, but I did."
Her statement was met with dead air.
"Mom?"
"Did you say you got married? You didn't say you got married..."
"Yeah, mom, I did. I got married in Maine—"
"Well, good, that can't be legal."
"It is legal mom."
"Well, we'll just get you an annulment—"
"No, mom, I don't want an annulment. I'm happy, mom."
"You're happy? My teenage daughter is happy she ran off and got..." Bella"s mom paused. "Who did you marry? That Cullen boy? I thought you two broke up. How will you support yourselves? Two teenagers can't get a house, pay bills—
Bella interrupted her tirade. "Mom, Edward and I did break up, it's not Edward. I didn't marry Edward." She knew there was no other way to phrase it, appearances had to be kept up. It was dangerous enough that Charlie knew Carlisle's wasn't anyone's father, foster or otherwise. Bella took a breath, Carlisle squeezed her hand in reassurance. "I married Edward's dad."
"What?"
"Mom, I'm married to Dr. Carlisle Cullen. Edward's dad."
"Thars obscene! I'm calling your father. When your father finds out he'll arrest this dirty doctor and—"
"Dad already knows. He's happy for us, mom."
Bella's mother grilled and lectured Bella for almost two solid hours when she had Bella give Carlisle the phone and she started in on him. In the end, Carlisle had chosen to tell her his immortal age of twenty-three, and the same story Alice had told Charlie when Bella was in the hospital after her skating accident.
When they were finally off the phone a somewhat appeased mother had agreed to come to their wedding encore.
By the time Carlisle and Bella returned home with their shopping bags that evening, almost everyone in Forks knew that Dr. Carlisle Cullen had married Bella Swan. To say the reactions were mixed would be an exaggeration. Surprisingly, Billy Black had been accepting when they saw him in town.
As predicted, the next day all of the guests received their invitation to Carlisle and Bella's wedding encore in Seattle. The prescient Alice had known on what date to mail each so that they would arrive practically in unison. Bella and Carlisle, were snuggled in an overstuffed armchair in Carlise's study. They were sorting photos they had taken on their brief honeymoon. You didn't need supernatural hearing to notice the motorbike being angrily gunned as it came up the drive. Bella froze and looked at Carlisle in fear. They hadn't been able to see Jacob the previous day, he and the pack had been on a two day training exercise around the area and weren't due back until that morning.
Reluctantly, Carlisle and Bella headed toward the front door. Emmett had already opened it. Jacob stood inside a crushed encore wedding invitation in his hand. His focus snapped to Bella. "You married him?"
Bella thought simplicity might be the best way to go. "Yes, Jacob, Carlisle and I are married."
"I know you have a thing for him, but to run away and get married, Bella, what were you thinking?"
"We didn't run away and get married. We were on a trip for Carlisle to speak with some doctors at another hospital." It was true, Bella justified silently, he had planned to check out hospitals on their trip. She thought it best to handle one touchy subject at a time. Today it was her marriage. There would be other days to talk about her change and the necessary move that would follow.
"Why did you need to go for that?" Jacob wasn't mollified.
"I had planned to go all along, Jake. It was like a mini-vacation."
"A business trip, that's a vacation too, and ends up being a wedding?"
"Yeah, Jake."
Jacob turned to Carlisle. "Did you plan this?" He was so angry Carlisle was concerned he might phase and accidentally harm Bella. He moved infinitesimally closer to Jacob as if he were getting closer to talk, but it put Bella somewhat behind him. Bella began to move with him, but Emmet, realizing what was going on subtly put his hand on her wrist to caution her. She looked up at Emmet, this gave Carlisle's plan away. "You think I'll hurt her like Emily was hurt?" Jacob scoffed. "I would never hurt Bella, not even by accident."
Carlisle's voice was calm, soothing without being obvious. "I know you would never intend to hurt Isabella, but not all accidents can be avoided."
Jacob's tone was both haughty and dismissive. "I've got more self-control than you can imagine." He turned to Bella. "But if it makes you feel better, Bella, move back, behind the sasquatch here." with his head he indicated Emmet.
"No. I know you won't hurt me, Jake." Bella said with a serious smile.
"At least someone trusts me." Jacob quipped.
"Bella, c'mon, move back. Wolfie here is okay with it and you're making Carlisle nervous."
Bella looked at each in turn. "Fine." She sat on an entryway chair, securely behind both Carlisle and Emmett.
The distraction seemed to calm Jake down. Unlike the others, he didn't realize the easing of tensions was coming from Jasper in the other room.
"Look, Bella..." Jake trailed off. He was silent in thought for a moment. It seemed he only needed to calm down a bit to see reason. Still, between them, Carlisle and Emmet moved to the side to give Jacob a clear view of Bella. He began again. "Look, Bella, you're never gonna return my feelings, I know that. I'm happy as your friend. I really am." It was clear he was understanding the truth of that statement himself for the first time. "But, Bella, he's dead."
Bella took a breath. "He's different than mortal humans, Jake. You can call it dead if you want to, but only his physiology has changed. His mind works like a human's, his emotions work like humans, he cares for humans in the same way he did as a human, perhaps more considering all he's lived through. All his senses are the same, though some may be a bit sharper than a mortal human's. His heart doesn't need to pump to sustain his life, he doesn't have to breathe, so what? It doesn't make him less human Jake."
Jacob's brow furrowed, his head lowered as he contemplated all Bella had said. He was silent for a few minutes. Then he looked Bella directly in the eyes. His tone was quiet and serious. "Quit making sense, Bella. It's messing with all the prejudices I've been taught to believe."
Bella laughed. She moved to Jacob and hugged him. She pulled back and looked him in the eyes. "Are we good?"
"Yeah, we're good." Jacob smiled.
Emmett joined the conversation. "So, you'll come to the wedding?"
Jakes answer was directed at Bella. "I wouldn't miss it."
Emmett whooped. "This party just got a lot better!"
It was Thursday, at eight in the morning. Every member of the Cullen Family was seated silently, around the dining room table. A human could have heard a pin drop. Jasper didn't dare use his gift to calm the tension. The situation was too serious. They had all been informed that it was of paramount importance. All the faces were solemn and attentive to the vampire seated at the head of the table with folders, papers, and all manner of official-looking items, and mysterious packages covering the polished wood surface in front of them. Alice cleared her throat, a human affectation that was second nature now, and spoke from her the seat of power. "As you know, Carlisle and Bella let me handle the details of their encore wedding." she smiled at the couple. "It seemed they had better things to do, and so they entrusted me with all of this." Alice gestured at the things gathered around her. "Now, let's get to it. I have hired cars that will meet all of the flights bringing in guests tomorrow. They will be met and escorted to their accommodations, where they will receive rental cars for their use during the duration of their stay. Bicycles will also be provided to those who prefer them. The guests coming by car have been gifted pre-programmed GPS systems that will guide them to exactly where they need to be.
"They will find gift bags for everyone in their respective accommodations. Each guest will receive one." Alice held aloft a large, zippered canvas bag. The new autumn leaves were beautifully embroidered on the front, and a large deep pumpkin colored silk bow was tied around the base of one handle. "In here they will find an old school map of Seattle with a small book highlighting the places of interest in and around the city. There will be a prepaid gas card with no limit for the weekend, an artisan-made, French-milled bar of soap with an autumn leaf design pressed into it, a leather-bound copy of 'The One Hundred Best Love Poems Of All Time', and a Forks latitude and longitude hoodie. They will also find a gift card for the spa along with personalized robes and slippers. Of course, they will get an itinerary for the wedding weekend and a thank you card. In addition to this the human's, and the wolves that come, will have a little box of locally handcrafted chocolates, local apples, gift cards to several restaurants, bistros, coffee shops, and so forth. There is a variety to choose from, more than each person needs, but we want to make sure they can dine wherever and whenever they want. The vampires will have received, today, a gentle reminder to come fully fed, and a map of good secluded animal hunting grounds should they get peckish."
Jasper laughed. Everyone looked at him, so he explained. "That will ensure that if some human drinkers do attend, which I doubt, they will come full to bursting so they don't get hungry."
Alice scowled playfully at Jasper, then continued. "We won't go to Seattle until Saturday, and our itinerary doesn't begin until nine on Saturday. At nine we will have a casual buffet brunch greet in The Author's Corner event room at the hotel. That should run until eleven, so we can mingle with everyone. At one o'clock we all board trollies for guided tours of the city and surrounding areas. After the tour, the trollies will drop the ladies off at The Queen Mary Tea Room, and take the gentleman on to the Seattle Golf Club. The clubhouse's food, drink, and views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains should keep them entertained in a civilised manner."
Emmett spoke loudly. "I still think Dream Girls would have been a better club to choose." The vibrations from the loud crack when Rosalie smacked Emmett on the head endangered the glass in the windows. Emmett's rubbed his head. "Babe, you know I only have eyes for you." Rosalie crossed her arms and didn't respond to Emmett's cajoling.
Alice sounded a bit cross as she continued. "We'll all get back to the hotel around six. The wedding party, including Bella's mom and her husband, and the Denalis, even though they aren't direct wedding party participants, will meet in the hotel's Grand Parlor at seven for a rehearsal with Jim; and then, move to the Gallery Room for a fire lit rehearsal dinner. The guests, human that is, will find their dinners where they like with their gift cards. At eleven the bridal party and guests will come together in the hotel's Bookstore Bar and Cafe for nightcaps; cocktails, wines, and rare whiskeys. At midnight, Carlisle and Bella will say good night. The rest of the family will follow encouraging everyone to retire for the night.
"At nine in the morning Bella will have breakfast with Carlisle in their room, immediately following her meal, Carlisle will leave. Then, Bella will be given the full spa treatment."
Carlisle spoke for the first time. "Alice, where will I go?"
"You will meet Jasper and behave yourselves till it's time for the ceremony. Really, Carlisle, wasn't that obvious? Everyone will assemble in the hotel's Grand Parlor at six for the ceremony. It will be beautiful with roses in autumnal colors and candles everywhere.
"After the ceremony the guests will meet in the Authors Corner for cocktails, featuring your signature spiced caramel apple cocktail, and fall-themed canapes. One hour later and everyone will reenter the Grand Parlor, which will have been transformed into a magical autumnal sit-down dinner and reception area. Once everyone is in the room, Jim will announce Carlisle and Bella, and they will make their entrance. They will go to their sweetheart table at the front of the room. By this time Jasper will be at the band's dias to the side. He'll take the microphone and ask everyone to find their seats. Dinner will commence. After dinner coffee will be served during which there will be a surprise slideshow, set to music." Alice smiled to herself, knowing it would be photos of their Maine wedding that Bella didn't even realise had been taken. "When that's through, the band will play. The dance Floor will have a subtle light show of swirling autumn leaves projected on it. After an hour the band will ask everyone to be seated for the cutting of the cake. Once Carlisle and Bella have completed that ritual, champagne and approximately cupcake-sized individual replicas of the cake will be served to each guest. Later, everyone will be given a boxed slice of the actual wedding cake to take home with them. When cake and toasts are done, I'll whisk Bella out to freshen up and change into her reception dress, We'll only take a moment. When we return the band will play again, and drinks will be served from the bar." Alice took an unnecessary breath. "Feel free to look at all the samples I have here, to familiarize yourselves with everything. Any questions?"
Carlisle hid a smile. "Why did you hold back so much?"
Alice looked genuinely sad. 'I know. I wanted to do so much more, but there wasn't time. I wanted to—"
She was cut off by everyone's laughter.
"Alice, it's too much," Bella's voice sounded strained at the thought of it all.
"Any more would have been too much, Alice. This will be perfect." Carlisle sounded sincere. Making Alice smile again. "The only thing better was our real wedding." Privately, Carlisle wondered just how long Alice had been working on this. He didn't doubt her story, but he noticed she hadn't mentioned dates. She would have had at least since their real wedding in Maine, which gave her a few weeks. Still, he considered that she might have known earlier and simply not mentioned to anyone that she was working on it.
The Volturi, as expected, had declined their invitations. Instead, sending extravagant gifts. There was a deed in Carlisle and Bella's names to a mansion near Volterra, with it an album of photos of the property. Bella's bridal gift was a tiara, along with a note expressing the hope that she would wear it for the first time at their encore wedding. Bella had looked against, Carlisle had merely shrugged and chuckled. His words to Bella did not ease her anxiety. "The only creatures more extravagant than Alice are the Volturi." What Carlisle failed to mention was that he thought the Italian property to be an attempt on Aro's part to get Alice and Edward to live near them. So, they could use their talents without continuing to try and convince them to formally join the Volturi. He wasn't surprised that they hadn't questioned Bella's humanity. They knew he would give her immortality in due course.
.Of course, the Denalis all accepted their invitations. As Alice predicted, none of Carlisle's human drinking friends would be attending. Jacob had agreed to come, so the Blacks, the Clearwaters, and the Atearas had accepted too. Vampires and wolves were vastly outnumbered by humans. Seattle would host almost the entire town of Forks. Most people from Bella's time in school, the doctors, other staff from the hospital, all of the police force that wasn't on duty, and many others happily accepted.
Bella was certain it was going to be a fiasco. Carlisle was not so pessimistic.
Saturday dawned overcast but unusually warm for November, it was the same across the entire state of Washington. Sunday was projected to be the same. Alice had predicted the weekend's weather perfectly. Friday had been decent weather too, but Bella didn't see it. Her entire day was spent exfoliating, defoliating, sucking out pores, filling pores with moisture, snipping, clipping, trimming, shaping, curling, plucking, and polishing. By the end of the day, she was ready to run away from Alice and her hired entourage.
For brunch Saturday morning, Alice dressed Bella in a Temperley London dress, falling just a few inches below the knee. Over which she wore a light, cropped, cable knit sweater in the identical shade of ivory. She had never taken out the earrings Alice had gifted her for her wedding; those, her rings, and her new Cullen crest watch were the only jewelry she wore. Alice had allowed comfortable shoes for this occasion. On her feet, she wore ivory leather and canvas sneakers covered in scallopped lace. Casual elegance were the words Alice had used to describe the outfit.
Once in the Author's Corner, Carlisle was waylayed by a young doctor seeking advice on the treatment of a patient.
With his unique combination of brashness and shyness, Mike Newton approached Bella. "So, you, you married Cullen's dad, what's that about? I mean, did you suddenly think... Mike trailed off as Carlisle joined them. Mike began anew. "Dr. Cullen, I was just congratulating Bella. Congratulations to you both. Thanks for the invitation, this is nice." Mike smiled uncertainly.
Carlisle was gracious, as always, even though he had heard what Mike was saying to Bella. "Thank you. We're very happy, and we're glad you could join us this weekend."
Bella fought the urge to roll her eyes and bestowed Mike with an obviously fake smile.
Charlie approached them. "Bells, your mom's going to be late. She mixed up which flight they were taking and Phil didn't realize in time. The next flight they can catch gets them here just before the ceremony tomorrow. They'll barely have time to check-in and change."
"Honestly, dad, I love mom, and I want her here; but, considering her reaction when I told her we got married, I'm kinda glad. This way she won't have a chance to catch us alone and share her opinions."
"Yeah, she called me. I'm glad she's gonna be late too, kiddo." Charlie turned to Carlisle. "Fancy do this."
Carlisle laughed. "Charlie, this isn't even the tip of the iceberg. Alice went way overboard."
Bella shook her head. "As usual."
Charlie's brow creased. " You're not eating, Bella."
"No, dad, it's all too much."
Charlie knew what she meant. The hotel was offering such a variety of fancy foods he hardly knew what to eat. He knew Bella must be nervous, so she wouldn't want any complicated haute cuisine. "I can fix that, I'll be right back."
Bella and Carlisle accepted a wide mixture of congratulations from sincere to snide. They had known this wasn't going to be easy. Although, so far, it wasn't as bad as they'd anticipated. Somewhere in the middle of it, all Charlie returned. Unnoticed by all except the vampires present, he slipped Bella a small unmarked white bag with little crackers filled with peanut butter and cheddar cheese energy bites. The Cullens mingled, greeted, and chatted while the guests filled up on a sumptuous and vast array of buffet-style brunch food and drink.
Bella and Carlisle planned a brief break alone together in between activities, but it wasn't possible. They couldn't make a break for it at eleven when brunch should have ended. Instead, they didn't get to their suite until nearly noon. Where they were met by Alice. She directed Carlisle to a plush sofa, handed him a book and swept Bella into the bath. When she emerged with Bellas it was just fifteen minutes until they all needed to board their trolley. Carlisle took Bella by both hands and gazed at her. "You look lovely, Isabella." He gave Alice, who had also changed a glance. "Although, Bella was already lovely, Alice."
Alice huffed. She had put great thought and time into each of Bella's ensembles for the weekend. Bella was now dressed in an ensemble that was pretty enough for tea, but also practical for a trolley tour. Alice had put her in ivory pleated culottes, that looked like a skirt, but we're practical for climbing in and out of a trolley. These she had topped with an ivory floral embroidered silk top, the patent leather ivory slip-ons had been the final practical touch.
Alice looked lovely in a deep green culotte jumpsuit, accented by a belt consisting of many sizes, varieties, and textures of fabric flowers.
Carlisle bent his head to kiss Bella, but their lips never made contact. Alice was pushing him toward the bath. "Your clothes are laid out, we need vampire speed, Carlisle!" Alice closed the bath door to Bella's giggle. In no time the three were in the elevator headed for an afternoon with their guests.
Bella was surprised that she had enjoyed herself. The trolley tour was spent on the tiny front-most seat, pressed against Carlisle. He had held her hand and whispered things he knew about Seattle that no human would, Tea, which she had dreaded, stuffy affairs were not her forte, turned out to be lovely. The atmosphere was more homey than stuffy, the food and tea were excellent, and seated with the Cullen and Denali girls the conversation was never boring. Even Rosalie had been relaxed and almost affable.
Back at the hotel, Alice whisked Bella away for another outfit change. She never caught sight of Carlisle as he had been instructed to go with Jasper to his and Alice's suite to change. When Bella was reunited with Carlisle in The Grand Parlor for their rehearsal she was dressed in ivory ballet flats, an asymmetrical ivory linen skirt, and the crowning glory; Bella's favorite piece of clothing so far; a Sundance Ivory Bridal Veil blouse with lace, detailed embroidery, appliques, and swiss dot. Somehow, it managed to be beautiful without being too fussy. Bella thought it would be perfect with a denim skirt when Alice allowed her to dress herself again. Jim stole the show at the wedding rehearsal. His brand of humor had been the most fun yet. The rehearsal dinner in The Gallery Room that followed was a relaxed, family gathering sort of meal. Conversation and laughter flowed naturally. Charlie even seemed to enjoy himself, he didn't realize Esme had gone to great lengths to ensure it.
As they made their way to their rooms and suites after the rehearsal dinner Alice patted Bella comforting. "It's your last outfit change for the day." She whispered, hoping to please Bella with that reassurance. "It's a simple simple low backed petal dress and t-strap open heeled shoes." When Bella saw them, she sighed. They were in shades of ivory and whites. Being cocktails, she had hoped for black at least, if not some color.
It was almost midnight in the Bookstore Bar And Cafe. Bella and Carlisle had mingled as necessary; then, they had spent most of the cocktail hour with Jacob, his dad, Charlie, Seth, and Quil. It had been nice. Bella only wished it had a more casual dress code.
When they had bathed the day's detritus off and sank gratefully into bed together, they had barely shared a good night kiss and Bella was fast asleep in Carlisle's arms.
Bella awoke at nine, expecting a quick breakfast with Carlisle and a horrific day like Friday had been. Instead, she enjoyed a leisurely breakfast with Carlisle, with time to enjoy the hotel's breakfast cuisine she couldnt stmach at yesterday's btunch. Then, she discovered that Carlisle had banished Alice. She would be allowed to return at four-thirty that afternoon to dress and primp Bella for the evening.
To Bella's delight, her time was spent securely locked in with Carlisle. Their phones had been powered down, Carlisle had given the hotel staff strict orders to hold all visitors, calls, and messages. He explained that this weekend may have been put on for the benefit of others, but those others would have been entertaining themselves, in the same way, had Alice been torturing Bella with beauty regimens all day.
After Bella's breakfast, the newlyweds spent the rest of the morning exploring each other's bodies, making sweet and passionate love together.
As their alone time was coming to an end, Carlisle insisted Bella eat a late, light lunch at least, as dinner was hours away. While she ate Carlisle read love poems to her out of a copy of the book that was put in their guest's gift bags. When she was through, Carlisle reached out and removed her new Cullen crest bracelet watch. Before she could question him, he opened a Garrard's Jewellery box before her. In it was a slightly larger, formal bracelet watch. The new Cullen crest cover of this watch was high jewellery. The background was platinum and eighreen karat yellow gold, the lion consisted of black diamonds, the water he'd waded into was created with the finest Ceylon sapphires, the delicate swan in his arms was made of pure colorless white diamonds. The hand above was created with tiny pave morganites and the hand wore a smooth platinum wedding band. The trefoils were enamelled and the entire design was delicately outlined so each element was perfectly clear. "I thought you needed something a bit more formal. I think I may have hoped to outshine the Volturi's gift that you must wear for a time this evening,"
"Carlisle, you alone outshine every jewel." When Carlisle looked slightly embarrassed, she elbowed him gently and continued. "And you're not even a sparkley vampire!" The knock at the door could be heard through their laughter, Carlisle slipped the new jewelled Cullen crest bracelet watch on Bella's wrist and stood to answer the door,
All too soon it was time to allow Alice into the room. She had Rosalie with her. Carlisle left to dress in Jasper and Alice's suite. They would meet again at Jim's mobile altar for the encore of their wedding vows.
After a quick bath, Bella emerged swathed in a luxurious hotel robe, slippers, and towels.
Rosalie spoke softly. "May I do your makeup, Bella?"
It was clearly an apology, Bella felt she had to agree. She only hoped Rosalie didn't do her makeup as heavily as she wore her own.
Once again dressed in her bespoke wedding gown and jacket, with the addition of a silk veil Alice had gifted her, she stood resplendent beside Charlie.
"You look beautiful, Bells."
She blushed and smiled. "So do you, dad. You look handsome, I mean."
"You can thank Esme, " Bella looked puzzled, then Charlie continued. "Seems your wedding is white tie. I was wearing a black tie. If Esme hadn't fixed it I would have ruined the whole event." Bella laughed.
Alice smiled affectionately as she handed Bella a replica of her bouquet from Maine. Bella smiled, all nervousness leaving her as she admired the spectacular arrangement of various David Austin roses in shades of whites and ivories, accompanied by other white and ivory roses in different shapes and sizes, highlighted by more white blossoms and varigated ivy.
Bella took Charlie's arm and the doors to the Grand Parlor were opened to The Trumpet Voluntary played by a small symphony crammed in a corner. Thanks to her veil no one saw Bella cringe. The room was awash with roses of every kind in beautiful fall hues. There were hundreds of candles lighting the room. Bella fleetingly wondered if that met the fire codes or if bribery on Alice's part was involved. She knew there must be artificial lighting too, but it wasn't visible and blended perfectly with the candlelight.
In the British Tradition, Charlie walked Bella up the aisle first. They were followed by Alice in her gold gown from Maine, carrying a stunning bouquet in autumnal colors. Rosalie looking stunning in a deep red gown that, while not quite so fairy-like, had a similar silhouette to Alice's, Her bouquet and Esme's we're identical to Alices. Esme ended the procession looking lovely in a deep pumpkin color gown that exactly matched Rosalie's. At the altar stood Carlisle, wearing his wedding attire from Maine. He was flanked by Jasper who also wore his best man's attire from Maine, Emmett, and Edward, wearing clothes that mirrored Jasper's.
The only differences from the Maine ceremony were the presence of Charlie to give Bella to Carlisle, and Carlisle's ring would be given to him by Bella in this room, after he gave her hers, not outside as it had been in Maine. Of course, the rings they would put on each other were paper, as they refused to remove their wedding rings. This was easily hidden from the audience, only the vampires present caught the trick.
After the ceremony, when the guests went for signature caramel applebcocktails and canapes, the bridal party posed for photos. For some special formal shots, Bella donned her tiara from the Volturi. A large print of the best of these would be framed and sent to Volterra.
An hour and fifteen minutes later Carlisle and Bella were the only ones not yet in the Grand Parlor. They waited by the closed doors for their signal to enter. Carlisle gazed at Bella and whispered. "I adore you." He bent down and drew her to him. They were lost in a kiss when the Grand Parlor doors opened. Someone had forgotten to give them a cue. When they heard Emmett and Quil's wolf whistles, followed by applause they broke their kiss. Carlisle smiled and laughed as he drew a blushing Bella's hand to his lips for a quick kiss. Hand in hand they entered. Bella looked slightly stunned as they paused by a huge portrait of them from their Maine wedding. That portrait was surrounded by several eight by tens of some of their favorite moments from their Maine wedding. Bella was shocked. She hadn't seen anyone taking photos in Maine.
Jim's voice rang out over the PA. "Please allow me to introduce Doctor Carlisle and Mrs. Isabella Cullen!" Flashes went off all around the room. Apparently, someone has arranged a concerted cell phone photo shoot.
There was more applause as Carlisle and Bella made their way to their table while REO Speedwagon's, 'Can't Fight This Feeling' played over the sound system. Once there, Carlisle helped Bella out of her wedding jacket and held her chair for her. The music had been timed to finish as they were seated. Only Alice could have pre-choreographed such a feat. Jasper's charming voice rang out, inviting everyone to be seated.
Now Bella and Carlisle had time to appreciate Alice's decor. The room was backed in deep brown fabrics of varied textures, underscoring every color of autumn. The tables, dressed in those same browns held blown glass and cut crystal pumpkins and leaves in golds, reds, oranges, and clear, all reflecting the autumnal candles artfully arranged amongst them. The tall and lush central floral arrangements on each table were designed to feature many varieties of fall hued roses and trailing vines. At each place setting there was a gift of a caramel apple scented candle, reminiscent of Bella and Carlisle's signature cocktail, presented in a glass pumpkin holder with a pretty fall colored organza bow. Every time you turned your head you saw a new detail you'd missed. Alice's intricate decor touches even kept the vampires surprised at every turn.
Servers approached and delivered platters with a wide variety of hors d'oeuvres to each table. Once the platters were placed, and all water glasses were filled, they took orders. The guests had a choice of either bacon-wrapped and blue cheese topped filet mignon, lemon leek roasted game hens or broiled herbed haddock. All of those would be served with roasted autumn vegetables and baby potatoes. The last choice was that of vegan lasagna. The kitchen would already have all the dishes prepared, so everyone could be served at the same time.
Bella had enjoyed dinner and cutting the cake with Carlisle. Although when cutting the cake she was momentarily enthralled by the candlelight dancing amongst the jewels of her Cullen crest bracelet watch, obvious as it was with her sleeveless gown.
They'd smiled at the sincere and touching toasts. They'd laughed with good humor at the bad jokes, and endured the thinly veiled insincere toasts too. They were grateful that Alice had seen to it that the toasts came before too much alcohol could be consumed. The addition of alcohol to the speeches would have been awful.
When all that was done, Bella had been taken away by Alice and quickly dressed in her reception dress. Alice removed her heirloom necklace and put it safely away. She then proceeded to dress Bella in a bespoke dress by a renowned Parisian designer. The bodice with its graceful low neckline and long sleeves were made of intricate reembroidered lace that had been tastefully, and painstakingly hand beaded. Without asking, Bella knew the seed pearls were genuine. She refused to consider the tiny flashing jewels artfully, and thankfully, sparingly sewn in place. The skirt was a simple one, silk chiffon and tulle that fell to mid-ankle bone. It would just barely show her beautiful footwear from their Maine wedding. It was layered and full. Bella knew it would move beautifully as she tripped and fell while trying to dance. Alice touched up Bella's makeup, that Rosalie had done to look natural. Bella had been very pleased with it. Alice had her back with Carlisle before anyone else noticed her absence.
At their cue, Carlisle escorted Bella to the dancefloor. When the first strains of their encore wedding song began, they danced for the first time that evening. In Carlisle's arms the rest of the world, and Bella's clumsiness, seemed to disappear as if my magical design. After their song finished, the band began to play. Bella danced with her father next. It was a quiet dance. Their embrace spoke volumes. They each knew that even with Bella's new circumstances they would always be there for each other. Their father-daughter dance ended with Charlie speaking first. "I love you, kiddo."
Bella's eyes shone with punished tears. "I love you too, dad, " Before she could get any more sentimental Jasper was beside her, requesting a dance.
After her dance with Jasper, Carlisle and Bella mingled with friends, some of the Quileutes who weren't exactly friends, colleagues, and everyone present, except Bella's mom. They managed to avoid her deftly for more than two hours. As she was weaving her way towards them through the guests, Carlisle led Bella back onto the dance floor. They danced three dances when Jacob approached. Carlisle handed Bella to her friend with a smile. He turned, and Alice polled him into a dance.
"So, Mrs. Cullen, how's he treating you?"
"He's wonderful, Jake."
Jacob stopped dancing looked deeply into Bella's eyes. He shook his head and pulled Bella back into the dance. "Yeah, I guess you two are okay. But, we're still gonna hang out."
Bella looked aghast. "Of course we are, why wouldn't we?"
"You won't have a say in it anyway, your new brother-in-law..." Jacob paused in confusion. "Your new step-son? That can't be right. You're new... Whatever, Emmett just extended yours truly a standing Saturday invitation for gaming, so you won't be rid of me."
Over Jacob's shoulder, Bella smiled at Emmett in thanks. He replied with a wink over Rosalie's head as the two danced.
The evening continued in this way. Bella was kept dancing and glad to avoid her mother, who she would catch a surreptitious glance of every so often, hovering around trying to catch her eye.
As the evening wound down, so did Bella's luck. She was blissfully back in Carlisle's arms, swaying to a slow dance when she heard her mother's voice. "Carlisle, I'm sorry to interrupt, but I've been trying to get Bella's attention all evening."
Reluctantly, Bella lifted her head from Carlisle's shoulder. "Hey, mom."
"Bella, baby." Renee pulled Bella to her and hugged her fiercely. "My little girl is so grown up." She released Bella and dabbed at her eyes. "I think you've been avoiding me." Bella opened her mouth to deny it, but her mom didn't give her the chance. "You know my feelings on marrying young. But, you're already married, you two are obviously very much in love. Most young people don't get that. They may think they're in love; but, they're too young to know. You aren't. You've always been older than your years. I'm sure you will have a long and happy marriage, honey."
Bella smiled. "Yeah, mom, we will."
Carlisle, Bella, her mom, and Phil moved to one of the lovely seating areas around the room. They were soon joined by Charlie and Esme. Servers arrived and placed platters of cheeses, fruits, and breads; along with glasses of iced plain cider and steaming cups of mulled cider on the table centered by the plush seating. After a few minutes, the rest of the Cullens joined them. Later the Denalis arrived, more seating was brought over to accommodate the growing group.
Finally, it was time for Carlisle and Bella to make their escape. Bella had carefully changed into the dress Alice had laid out. It was a delicately detailed Sundance dress, in light ivory, with long sleeves and a modest neckline, its skirt ended just above the knee. She pulled on the ankle boots Alice left to go with it. It looked somewhat nineteen-sixties, but somehow it worked. Carlisle, now dressed more casually too, handed her two bouquets, hers and a smaller replica. He extended his arm to her. Back in the Grand Parlor, they said their goodbyes. Alice carefully arranged all the single females in a group around Bella. She knew just where to place them. Bella tossed the smaller bouquet that resembled hers. It was caught by a woman with a beautiful white updo wearing a long soft periwinkle dress. It was Myra, one of Forks EMTs. Everyone thought of her as the town spinster, even though she didn't own a single cat. Only Alice knew she had a gentleman friend in Port Angeles who had to work tonight. Alice thought Myra catching the bouquet might be the hint her gentleman friend needed to remove her moniker of spinster.
Soon, Carlisle and Bella, we're making their way, not to catch a plane to an exotic honeymoon as their guests assumed; but home to recuperate from their encore wedding.
In no time at all they had returned to Forks.
AN
Some cultures considered pearls to be bad luck when worn by a bride on her wedding day. The pearls on Bella's reception dress will not be considered to bring bad luck, even for the most superstitious (me) because this event is not a real wedding. That took place in Maine and was pearl free.
AN Part Two
It will take a while for me to post the next chapter. Typing with one finger on a tiny 'keyboard' in a notes app is not like touch typing on a computer. It takes significantly longer. It won't take year's this time, but sadly, it won't be next week, either.