I adopted this plot bunny a year or so ago. It really intrigued me. I posted a poll in my group asking which story I should work on next, and this was the winner. It's definitely a WIP. I've only got a rough outline figured out and I'm going back to my roots with this … writing with a vague plan. I hope that I can do this justice.
None of this is mine … I wish it was. Sigh …
Anyhow, up next will be Christmas and meeting Carlisle and Esme. We're also going to have some citrusy moments. Not a full glass of lemonade, but just enough to quench your thirst.
In case you haven't noticed, I didn't update last week. I'm running out of the surplus of chapters. I'm also struggling to find time to write. RL is sucking the life out of me. So, until things calm down or I can get another surplus of chapters, updates will be every other week. My apologies. Thank you for your patience …
Chapter Twenty-One
Bella
"Mom, I cannot believe we're taking a private plane to Los Angeles. How cool is that?" Seth gushed as we drove down the highway to the airport in the back of a limousine. Instead going to the commercial terminals, we were going to the private, executive entrance for the private chartered plane which we were taking down to visit Edward. "Do you think it's going to be a big plane or tiny?"
"I don't know, kiddo," I chuckled, my fingers idly petting Bear's ears. The dog snuggled closer to me, putting his head on my lap. "I'm just excited to spend a couple of weeks with my two best guys."
"Do you think we can go to Disneyland? You already went with Edward the last time you were down in Los Angeles, but can we go? As, um, a family?" Seth asked. "It'll probably be crazy busy because of the holiday, but …"
"I'm pretty certain that we can make that work," I smiled. "If not this time around, maybe during spring break."
"Edward will be filming," Seth explained. "He starts in March, and he films through I think September."
"How do you know that?" I asked.
"It was an email that Edward sent me and you, Mom," Seth snickered, pulling up his email on his phone. "See? It's to both of us."
"Oh," I shrugged. "Edward pretty much told me about the locations they chose for filming, but nothing about the schedule. The only scheduling thing we needed to address was auditions for the main characters, which is happening the first couple of weeks of the new year."
After our trip to Los Angeles, Edward would fly back with us for auditions. The studio was flying the actors into San Francisco, booking them rooms in the St. Regis. Edward was going to stay with me, but Elliott, Demetri, and Gianna, along with their staff, were also staying at the St. Regis. However, after the movie was cast, I was going to step back and wait to see it until the movie premiered.
"Mom! You're spacing out," Seth said, waving his hand.
"Sorry," I murmured, giving him a gentle smile. "Just a long day. I did some work on my new series, and did some promotional work for my latest novel that came out. I might have to go to a bunch of book conventions after the first of the year."
"Fun. Can I come with you?" Seth asked.
"No, you can't. You've got school," I quipped. "You'll stay with Aunt Rose and Uncle Emmett."
"What about you?" Seth pushed. "You need someone with you. What if my sperm donor …?"
"I've got a restraining order and the conventions are outside of the state, even outside of the country! Your sperm donor doesn't have a passport. One is in Nashville in February and then the next conventions are in the summer, in Canada, Dallas, and Washington D.C. The last one is in Vegas in October," I explained.
"The ones during the summer, I can join you, right?" Seth asked.
"We'll see," I chuckled as the limo pulled into the private airstrip at San Francisco International Airport. The driver got out and helped us with our luggage. We checked in and were led to the private plane. Inside, there was a special seat for Bear. He hopped up onto the seat and I buckled him in. Bear licked my face. "Thanks, Bear. I needed that."
"Ms. Swan, I have something for you from Mr. Cullen," said the flight attendant. "Actually, it's for all of you." She handed me a large box wrapped in Christmas paper. "We'll be leaving in about twenty minutes."
"Thank you," I smiled.
"A present," Seth grinned, sitting down across from me. He read the tag. "It says 'Open me.' What are you waiting for?"
I ripped off the bow, which was a collection of smaller jingle bells. I pressed it onto Seth's forehead. He snorted, taking them off and watched me with rapt attention. Inside the box, there was a beautiful cashmere blanket. It had a tag with my name on it. I smiled, rubbing my cheek against the blanket. Bear whimpered and I saw a couple of smaller gifts under my blanket. "One's for you, Seth. Here," I said, handing him the box. "Oh, this must be why you're whimpering, Bear. Edward got you a treat." I unwrapped the treat and gave it to Bear. He settled down and began gnawing on the bone.
The flight attendant took the box from me and said that we were next in line for take-off. Seth showed me a pair of Air Pods Pro that Edward got for him. I smiled excitedly as Seth paired them up with his phone and listened to whatever he had downloaded on his phone. I pet Bear's head after I draped my new blanket over my legs as the pilot said for the flight attendant to prepare for take-off.
It didn't take long for us to fly down to Los Angeles. Once we landed, the flight attendant helped me with the blanket with a warm grin. Holding the blanket and Bear's leash, we got off the plane. Leaning against his black SUV, Edward smiled at us. Bear barked at him, his butt wriggling. Edward pushed off the SUV and jogged toward us. He hugged my son, who shockingly accepted his affection. Edward handed Bear's leash to Seth, and he spun me around in his arms. "You are a sight for sore eyes, gorgeous," he whispered, pressing a brief, but deep kiss on my lips. "I've really missed you, Bella."
I melted against him, gripping his jacket, lost in his strength and kisses. I slid my arms around his neck, breathing him in. "It's so good to be here," I whispered. I pulled back, brushing my fingers through his hair. I looked around and saw Seth taking Bear for a walk, giving us some privacy. Edward's hands cupped my face and he kissed me again. I sighed contentedly, feeling the stress of the past month melt away.
"Are you okay, Bella?" Edward asked.
"I'll tell you more once we get back to your place and Seth's in bed," I murmured, kissing him again.
"Okay, Bella. I love you," Edward whispered, sliding his arm around my waist.
Hearing him say that put my heart and mind at ease. He still loved me. "I love you, too," I breathed.
"Seth, you ready?" Edward called, helping me into the car.
"Yep. I just had to pick up Bear's stuff," Seth snickered, holding a plastic bag with his nose wrinkled. "His poop."
"Thank you for doing that," I said, gesturing to a garbage can.
"I'll put the dog in the car," Edward chuckled, opening the back door. Bear hopped inside, onto a doggie car seat. Edward snapped Bear into place as Seth got in on the other side. Edward got into the driver's seat, and he turned over the engine. "So, I have some delicious tacos at my place. I figured you wouldn't want to go out to eat or want to cook, so I had my assistant pick up our dinners."
"How is Alec?" I asked.
"He's done with school," Edward answered. "He got his degree and will walk in the spring. So, in addition to being my assistant, he's also helping out Elliot with the secondary footage. Alec is incredibly talented, and I think he'll do some amazing work on this movie."
"Did he do a final project or something?" Seth questioned.
"Alec did send me a copy of it. We can definitely watch it," Edward grinned, pulling out of the airport. He got onto the freeway and sped toward his beachside home in Malibu. "So, are you excited to be on winter break, Seth?"
"I'm happy to have two weeks off of school," Seth chuckled. "Don't get me wrong. I love school, but I like sleeping in more."
"Hmmm, sleeping in is awesome," I sighed.
"Well, both of you can sleep in all you want," Edward said. "You're on vacation. The only thing we have to do is put up some Christmas decorations. My décor is a little more coastal than your traditional decorations at your house. But, I wanted to wait to put them up with you. The outdoor lights are up, but the interior decorations are in several boxes, waiting for your tender loving care."
"Who put up the lights outside?" Seth asked.
"I did," Edward snickered. "I like to get my hands dirty and climb on the roof."
"I hope you were careful," I said worriedly.
"My dad was over while I was crawling on the roof and as you can see, I'm perfectly fine," he quipped, leaning over to kiss my cheek while we were at a stoplight. The drive went by quickly and Edward pulled into his neighborhood. When we drove up to Edward's home, I gasped when I saw how magical his place looked. "You like it?"
"You did all this?" Seth breathed.
"You all know that I am a Hollywood director. I have connections and I'm pretty handy when it comes to stuff like this," Edward laughed, turning into the driveway, and parked outside. "I'll get your bags in a little bit. Let's eat dinner."
We got out of the car and walked into Edward's home. There were a pile of plastic tubs near the entrance along with a Christmas tree set up in the living room. "That tree is humongous!" Seth said, his eyes wide. "How are we going to get the decorations all to the top?"
"I have a ladder," Edward answered. "I also did the hard work of putting the lights on the tree already."
"You said we'd have a real tree," I said, elbowing Edward's stomach.
"I know, I know. It turns out that I'm highly allergic to pine trees. I picked a real one up and had set up in my living room. My dad came over the following day to help me with the lights and my eyes were swollen shut," Edward explained with a soft chuckle. "So, he drove me to his place and my mom shot me up with Benadryl while he got rid of the tree. As a result, I got a fake tree, but with pine-scented candles."
"I'm sorry, Edward," I frowned. I looked over at him and I saw Bear curled up on a dog bed. "Someone got comfortable."
"I wanted Bear to feel at home here," Edward shrugged. "Come on. I don't know about you, but let's eat dinner. I'm starving!"
We sat down at the dining room table and dug into the array of tacos, burritos, and nachos that Edward's assistant had delivered. While we ate, Seth chattered about rehearsals, school, and the new house. Edward listened intently, genuinely interested in what my son had to say.
"Now, before we get ready for bed because you both look exhausted, I'm going to give you an option, Seth. You can stay in the guest room next to my office and it's here, in the main building. Or, I have a guest cottage that's downstairs," Edward grinned crookedly, looking at Seth. "Where would you like to stay?"
"As cool as it sounds to have my own cottage, I'd like to stay in the guest room," Seth answered.
"Alright, bud," Edward nodded. "I'll put your bags in the guest room."
"Edward, do you think you can teach me how to surf?" Seth asked. "Cooper said that the waves are pretty awesome this time of year."
"I think we can do that," Edward agreed. "Bella, do you want to learn, too?"
"I'll watch from the beach," I snickered.
"Let me help you with the bags. We need to take out Bear," Seth said, wiping his face and getting up from the table. "Dinner was awesome!"
"We'll be right back, love," Edward laughed, kissing my forehead.
While they took Bear for a walk and brought in the luggage, I did the dishes and put them away, along with the leftover tacos. Edward showed Seth around the house, who was thoroughly impressed. Shortly after that, my son went to bed. Edward took my hand, and we went outside to the fire pit. Edward handed me a beer. "Thanks for dinner. It was beyond amazing," I sighed, curling my feet up on the outdoor couch.
"I figured you didn't want to cook, and I still suck at the cooking," Edward snickered, sitting next to me. He tugged me closer to him. "What's got you so tense?"
"Just the unknown with Jacob," I replied, melting against his muscular chest. "Not to mention the unsolved mystery of who broke into my apartment, completely trashing the place. The only connection is the letter from Jacob's shady lawyer, demanding custody of my child. A child who, legally, has no father. It has to be linked to that, but other than that? No leads. No clues. Just lost memories and stolen money."
"Is there anything I can do for you?" he asked.
"You're doing it," I answered, putting my head on his shoulder. "Letting me talk about it and sharing the burden with me. I've talked with Jasper, Emmett, Rose, and Caius. I also mentioned it to my therapist, but the not knowing who broke into the apartment and whether or not Jacob is going to do something awful."
"I can't even imagine, love," Edward whispered, kissing my temple. "I'm with you. I'll do anything for you. I promise! Even while I'm filming … if something happens, just call me and I'm there. Bella, my job is a film maker, but you're family. Family always come first."
"Even Alice?" I asked, arching a brow at him.
He sighed, sliding his arm around my middle. "I will always love my sister. She was my first protector that I remembered. But, she never understood the concept of boundaries, even as a kid. She crossed that line with her prejudice toward you. If she called me right now, saying that she was hurt or needed me, I would go, but I wouldn't be happy about it. However, my priorities are changing. You and Seth come first."
I couldn't help but kiss him. He smiled when my lips brushed against his. "I love you, Edward," I whispered.
"I love you, too, gorgeous," he murmured. "As a matter of fact, I feel like love is too small a word for what I feel for you and for Seth." He kissed me again, nipping at my lips. I shivered, snuggling closer to him. "Come on, Bella. You're cold and as romantic as this is, I think we need to get you inside. It's been too long since I've held you in my arms while we slept."
"That sounds perfect," I grinned. He got up and we walked inside after extinguishing the fire pit. Throwing our empty beer bottles into the recycling bin, we went upstairs and got ready for bed. I had to fight back drool when I saw Edward's bare chest covered in whirls of ink and muscles flexing as he unmade the bed. How the hell did I get so lucky to get such a beautiful human, both inside and out, in my life?
"You're ogling, Bella," he teased, waggling his brows.
"Sorry," I blushed. I kept my eyes on him as I crawled onto the bed. "I can stop."
"Please don't. I like seeing the hunger in your eyes," he murmured. I arched a brow at him. He pulled me to his body, holding me on his lap. "Don't freak out on me, Bella. But, when you stare at me, you look like you want me. Your choices were taken away, but you're …"
"I want you. I definitely want you," I whispered. "When you talk to me, hold me, love me, I feel safe, protected."
"It would kill me to hurt you," he admitted. He kissed me tenderly. I slid my arms around his neck, gliding my fingers along his smooth skin of his back. He sighed happily, pulling me flush to his torso. "I've really missed you, Bella."
"I missed you, too," I grinned, pressing my cheek against his shoulder, and inhaling his clean, masculine scent. "I love you, Edward. I'm happy to be here and be away from the stress."
"Then, we'll make this trip as stress-free as possible," he chuckled. "Now, let's get some rest. We have a big day tomorrow, transforming this place into a winter wonderland." He kissed me once more, rolling me off his lap and tucking me to his side. "I love you, gorgeous."
"I love you, too," I smiled, pressing my cheek to his chest.
xx Blockbuster xx
The next day, Edward and Seth went for a run on the beach with Bear while I made breakfast. We ate together, as a family, before my boys both showered. After that, Edward turned on some Christmas music and we spent the rest of the morning and early afternoon decorating his home. The decorations were light and airy, a vast difference from the more traditional décor in my home. Like at my house, Bear plopped down on top of the tree skirt and barked quietly.
"You know, Bear, presents will be put underneath there," Edward laughed, rubbing behind his ears. "You'll have to find another place to curl up. I bought you a comfy bed over there, bud." Bear just gave him his doggy smile, with his tongue lolling out the side of his mouth.
"Do you have wrapping paper? I have presents, but I didn't want to wrap them and get them all squished in our bags," I asked.
"I do have wrapping paper," Edward smiled, standing back up. "I also wrapped some presents before you came. They're hidden in my office. They looked a little weird under a tree without decorations."
"Edward, can we go shopping tomorrow?" Seth asked, sitting down on the floor next to Bear. "I got one present for Mom when I went out with Uncle Emmett, but … I saved up some money."
"Seth, you do not need to get me anything," I chided.
"I have to pick up a few things as well, Seth. Tomorrow at ten?" Edward asked, giving my son a pointed look.
"What if I need to pick up things?" I argued, with an arched brow.
"I'm certain my mother would love to meet you and go with you," Edward quipped. "You're supposed to meet her on Christmas. If you meet her before that, it'll take some of the pressure off."
"Perfect!" Seth exclaimed. He hugged the dog and grinned widely.
"I didn't say yes," I grumbled, walking to the kitchen to get some water. I leaned against the counter as I sipped my water.
"Bella, I'm sorry," Edward said. "You don't have to go with my mom, but she really wants to meet you. How about we have breakfast? I'll go shopping with Seth and you can go with my mom."
"Okay," I nodded. "I'm sorry. I was practically raised by wolves … I don't know how to act around your mother."
"Just be you," Edward smiled, cupping my cheek.
The next morning, after Edward, Seth and Bear came back from their morning run, we went to a local bistro. A beautiful woman with alabaster skin and perfectly coiffed blonde hair stood up from her spot inside. She walked over to Edward, hugging him tightly. Edward walked with her to where Seth and I were waiting. "Mom, this is my girlfriend, Bella and her son, Seth. Bella, this is my mother, Esme Cullen."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Cullen," I responded nervously. I held out my hand, but she tugged me into her arms and hugged me tightly.
"I've heard nothing but amazing things about you, Bella," she said, stepping back and grinning at me widely. "And call me Esme."
"Thank you," I stammered.
"Mom, stop smothering her," Edward chided.
"Right," she laughed, turning to my son. He was eyeing her, uncertain how to react to her. He hovered in between me and Edward, gripping my shirt. "And, you must be Seth? You are very handsome and from what I hear, incredibly smart!" She held out her hand. "I don't bite."
"Sorry," Seth mumbled, shaking her hand. "It's nice to meet you, Mrs. Cullen."
I understood Seth's wariness. It took him some time to open up to people. I was honestly shocked that he bonded so quickly with Edward, but he was terrified of his mother.
"Why don't we get settled and order breakfast, hmmmm?" Esme said. "It's on me."
"Thank you," I smiled, sitting down at the table. Seth sat next to me, taking my hand underneath the table.
After we ordered breakfast, Esme sipped her coffee. "I've read your books, Bella. You are such a talented author," Esme beamed. "I can see why your first novel was optioned to be a movie. It has everything and my son will do wonders bringing the story to the big screen. How are things going?"
"We're going to start casting the movie after the first of the year and then, I'm leaving it Edward's capable hands," I answered, giving Edward a warm grin. "I trust him."
Edward leaned over, kissing my lips with a goofy smile on his face. "It's because I've got some amazing source material."
"So, Seth, what grade are you in?" Esme asked. "What's your favorite subject?"
"I'm in sixth grade, Mrs. Cullen," he responded. "I love PE, but I also like music, too."
"He has the lead in the school musical," I boasted proudly. "What show are you doing?"
"Into the Woods, Jr.," Seth answered. "I'm the Baker. I tried out because it sounded fun and was super surprised that I got such a big role."
"I don't know where he got his musical talent. I have none," I snickered.
"Maybe you got it from your father?" Esme said.
"Mom," Edward hissed, glowering at his mother.
"My sperm donor was an asshole," Seth snapped, shooting up and glaring at Edward's mother. With a huff, he stomped away.
"I told you that you needed to tread lightly," Edward growled, standing up. "I'm going to check on Seth."
I nodded because when my son was like this, he'd brood for days. "Thank you, Edward," I whispered. He kissed my temple and followed my son outside.
"I knew I'd fuck things up," Esme muttered. "Edward gave me your first novel and he said it was based in truth … Seth's father?"
"He raped me," I whispered. "Seth was the result. My son hates him and so do I, to be honest."
"I'm sorry, Bella. I really am," Esme said, reaching for my hand.
xx Blockbuster xx
Edward
"Seth, slow down," I yelled, running after Bella's son as he walked away from the restaurant. I could hear his tears. I caught up with him near a park. "Seth, buddy …"
"Leave me alone, Edward," he snarled.
I gently grabbed his arm and pulled him into my arms. He fought me, but he fell to his knees and sobbed brokenly. "I've got you, Seth. I've got you," I whispered, holding him tightly.
"I hate him. I hate that people think that I got something from him," Seth cried. "I'm nothing like him. He's an angry, hateful man who enjoyed beating the shit out of my mother because he could. He liked to hurt her. He liked to …" Despite his size and his deepening voice, Seth was still a little boy. He'd also heard what his father did to his mother, even as a child. God damn it ."You won't hurt her like that, will you?"
"Seth, look at me," I whispered, wiping his tears away. "I promise you, with my entire heart, soul and everything in between, I will never hurt your mom like that. I love her. I also love you, too, kiddo."
"How can you love me? I just went off on your mom," Seth frowned, fat tears falling down his cheeks.
"I love you because you are everything good and kind and amazing. You're smart. You're funny and you have every right to be angry at the monster who hurt your mom," I breathed, hugging him close.
"I wish you were my dad," Seth sniffled.
"Do you remember what was said at Thanksgiving?" I asked. He shook his head. "That blood doesn't make a family, but relationships do. We may not share blood, Seth, but I love you. I may not be your father biologically, but in every other way that counts, I feel like I could be your dad …"
He practically tackled me when he hugged me. His sobs were heartbreaking, but I could feel the tension leaving his tiny body. I held him with my own tears falling down my cheeks.
"You okay?" I asked.
"Yeah," Seth sniffled. "I should apologize to your mom. I was a jerk."
"Seth, you have every right to be a jerk, especially when it comes to him," I explained. "I also talked to my mom and told her to not say anything … she just … forgot. It's not an excuse, but …"
"I get it," Seth shrugged. "We should probably head back. I'm sorry about bolting. I just needed fresh air, or I was going to break something."
I held out my hand and Seth took it. We walked back to the restaurant. Our food had arrived, and my mom was talking to Bella. I could see some discomfort with both of them, but the fact they were talking was a good sign. Seth squeezed my hand, cleaning his throat. "Mrs. Cullen … I'm sorry," he said, gripping my hand tightly.
"Oh, sweetheart, you have nothing to apologize for. It was me and my big mouth," Mom said, getting up and moving to hug him. Seth, however, moved closer to me. My mom took the hint and smiled. "I'm sorry, Seth." She gave him another longing look before sitting back down. It would take some time before Seth would feel comfortable with her.
After breakfast, my mother paid, and I took Seth with me while my mom left with Bella. "So, what do you need to get for your mom?" I asked, unlocking my car.
"Something special. She broke her back to give me everything I need and my presents to her are stupid," Seth mumbled. "A little ornament or a hand-made card."
"Those presents aren't stupid, Seth," I said. "Bella loves them."
"They were lost because of the guy who broke into the apartment," Seth sighed. "Everything, except for the books and a handful of pictures, like the one you put on the wall with my grandfather."
"I know you can't replace those memories you lost, but I think we can make some new ones. Have you ever taken a photo? A family photo?" I asked.
"The only pictures I've taken were from school," Seth answered.
"I think you and your mom should get some pictures," I said. "I'll take them, and we can rebuild those memories you lost. The best picture, we can put into a frame."
"I like that," Seth beamed, hugging me. "I also want to get something for my mom … a bracelet or a necklace … a physical representation of how much I love her."
"We have a plan, Seth," I turning over the car and driving toward The Oaks. We spent a couple of hours at the outdoor mall. We found a beautiful frame and platinum bangle bracelet that had hearts on the outside, but with the phrase 'Remember, I will always love you Mom.' At the same jeweler, I picked up a platinum infinity necklace with two diamonds inside the holes of the infinity symbol. I'd rather give her another type of diamond … one that would go on her left finger … but she wasn't ready.
Bella texted me while I was walking back to the car with Seth, our arms laden with a ton of gifts. I checked my messages. She said that she was home. My mom had dropped her off after they finished their shopping trip. Bella had taken Bear out for a walk on the beach and was currently making dinner, using some of the leftovers from last night to make taco salad. I wanted to ask to see how she got on with my mother, but was going to wait until we got home.
"Christmas Eve is just around the corner. When are we going to wrap these?" Seth asked as we secured in the trunk. "I don't want my mom to see …"
"Understandable. I'll hide these in the office, and we can wrap them while we let your mom sleep in tomorrow," I suggested. "She deserves it." My phone chimed and I saw Aro Volturi's contact pop up. "Here, Seth. Start the car …"
"Really?" Seth asked, his eyes wide.
"Yes, really," I snickered. "Hold down the break, the pedal on the left and hold down the button next to the gear shift. I need to make a quick call."
"Thanks, Edward," Seth sang, hugging me before darting to the driver's seat.
"Don't put it in gear, bud," I laughed, dialing Aro.
"Edward, my boy! I've been trying to get in touch with you for the past couple of days," Aro answered. "Your assistant said you had some family in town and that you were busy."
"Bella and her son are visiting for Christmas," I said. "I'm actually out, finishing up some last-minute holiday shopping with Seth."
"That's Bella's boy, right?" Aro asked.
"Right," I replied as Seth turned over the car with a whoop. "So, I need to get going …"
"Well, before you go, Summit is having a Christmas party tomorrow evening. It's at the Hotel Bel Air and I would love for you to come," Aro said. "You and Bella, of course."
"I'll let you know, Aro. It's awfully last minute," I sighed, scrubbing my hand through my hair.
"I'll put you down as coming and if you arrive, awesome. If not, no big deal," Aro said with an edge to his voice.
Apparently, Bella and I were going to be going to his party. I'd have to figure out childcare for Seth and with my mother's faux pas didn't really endear her to Seth. Shaking my head, I walked to the driver's seat and slid inside. Seth was beaming excitedly. "Was starting the car all you ever dreamed it would be?"
"And more," Seth laughed.
I snickered, ruffling his hair. "Let's go home. Your mom is making nachos with the leftovers from last night."
"Sweet! My mom makes the best nachos," Seth beamed. "Thanks, Edward. For everything today. I know I have a lot of issues to work on, but knowing that you're on my side and on the side of my mom, it means everything. You love my mom. You love both of us …"
"I do, Seth," I nodded, getting on the highway. "You and your mom are the most important things to me."
"Edward?" Seth whispered.
"Yeah?"
"I love you, too," Seth murmured, gripping my hand. I blinked to him, giving him a crooked grin. I cupped his cheek, wiping away an errant tear. "I love you, too."
xx Blockbuster xx
Bella
I was sitting inside Edward's bedroom with a stylist curling my hair and another was putting on makeup. A beautiful cream-colored lace dress was hanging on the closet with pair of nude heels. In order to make the party a little more palatable, Edward hired a hair stylist and makeup artist to help me get ready. I didn't have anything appropriate to wear, so he also had his personal shopper bring over several options to wear to the party. The dress I picked was lovely, but expensive. With a wave of his hand, the dress was purchased, and I was treated to an afternoon of beauty while Edward took Seth out surfing.
I wanted to strangle Edward, but it wasn't his fault. He was practically threatened by Aro Volturi to go to this holiday party hosted by Summit. So, we were going to the Bel Air Hotel for this event.
Can you hear my excitement?
Probably not. My inner-snark is not nearly as clear as my outer-snark.
"I think your hair would be lovely in a messy chignon," said the stylist. "It'll show off your graceful neck."
"And some simple makeup for her eyes with a bold lip. A deep cranberry … it'll really be beautiful with your alabaster complexion," grinned the makeup artist. "Girl, you're going to look hot!"
"I trust you," I said, closing my eyes. Not really, but I have zero makeup skills.
I heard Seth laugh and he barreled up the stairs. He was damp, but smiling so brightly. "Mom! I actually got up on the surfboard! I was only standing for a few seconds before I went down, but I surfed!"
"I hope Edward got a video of that," I said.
"I used my GoPro," he replied, his wetsuit was half on, and his muscular torso was on display. "He looked great."
"Thanks, Edward," Seth beamed.
"Why don't you go downstairs, in the guest house bathroom, to warm up and shower?" Edward suggested. "Shampoo, soap and towels are down there. I need to get ready for this shindig, and I need to use the guest bathroom since your mom is commandeering our bedroom. We were out too long."
"Okay," Seth nodded. "I'm going to grab my clothes. Will I spend the night with your parents?"
"I don't know what time we'll be back. So, my folks are preparing a bedroom for you. My mom also said she'd honor your boundaries," Edward explained. "I know you're not her biggest fan."
"No, I should talk to her and maybe explain to her why I reacted the way I did," Seth shrugged.
"She does need help with cookies," Edward smirked.
"Seth is a huge helper when I make cookies. He decorates them better than me," I chimed in as mascara was applied.
"Okay, cool," Seth said. He gave Edward a quick hug and blowing me a kiss before darting out of the room.
"Your suit is in the office," the stylist said. "Teddi left it in there since … well …" She gestured to the bedroom. "You also need a trim."
"I'm fine," Edward sighed. "I'm going to clean up. I'll meet you downstairs, love. I'd kiss you, but I'm covered in salt water and you're too pretty to kiss at the moment."
"Right, wearing a robe along with my hair being pinned every which direction and a mascara wand in my eyeball," I laughed.
"It's not in your eyeball," the makeup artist quipped with a wry grin.
Edward laughed and he left the bedroom. While he got ready, my look was perfected. I was pushed into the bathroom and put on my dress. Walking out of the bathroom, the makeup artist put on my lipstick and grinned. "You're perfect," she breathed. "Meredith is giving Edward a trim and we'll head out."
"Thank you for doing all of this," I smiled, slipping on my shoes. "And last minute …"
"You're welcome, Miss Swan," the makeup artist grinned. "Have fun tonight!"
"I'll try," I snickered dryly. She packed up her stash of makeup and left the bedroom. I picked up the clutch, stuffing my cell phone, the lipstick, and some cash inside. I walked down the stairs and found my clean son eating a snack on the couch. "Don't spoil your dinner, kiddo."
"The surfing kicked my butt and I'm starving," Seth said with his mouth full of Cheetos.
"Meredith, I'm fine," Edward sighed, stomping down the stairs, wearing a maroon-colored suit that was cut to perfection. The sides of his hair had been cut with some gel mixed into the top. "We need to go. Aro does not appreciate tardiness."
"Okay, okay," Meredith sighed, slinging her bag over her shoulder. "It was nice to meet you, Miss Swan. You look gorgeous! I'd kill for your hair." She flipped her thin blonde hair over her shoulder. With another grin, she ducked out of the house.
"Seth, get your jacket," I said. "We've got to go."
Seth got up and grabbed his coat and his backpack. Edward picked up his keys to one of his more expensive cars. His eyes swept over me, desire flashing in his eyes. I blushed as he slid his arm around my hip. We walked to garage, getting into a sleek silver Mercedes. The drive was short to Edward's parent's home. They were standing outside, and we got out. We were introduced to Carlisle, who was just as handsome as his son.
Seth walked inside, waving at me and Edward with a grin.
"He'll be okay with them, right?" I asked.
"My dad has this amazing gift of smoothing things over," Edward chuckled, pulling out of the subdivision, and driving toward the freeway. The drive to the hotel was filled with conversations and laughter. We arrived at the posh hotel, and I bit my lip. I did not belong here. "I can see you overthinking, love. It'll be fun. Free booze, fancy hors d'eouvres, and a big band playing Christmas standards. Oh, and dancing …"
"I can't dance," I snickered.
"It's all in the leading, Bella, not that I'm much better. I do like to have fun, though," Edward smirked, parking at the valet. He handed the keys to the valet and took the ticket. Jogging around the front of the car, he opened the passenger seat. Giving me his hand, I got out of the car and gave him a nervous smile. "No matter what happens tonight, I love you. You're exquisite and I'm honored to have you as my date."
"I love you, too," I breathed.
Threading our fingers together, we walked into the lobby. The concierge directed us outside to the courtyard. It was decorated with Christmas trees, twinkle lights and festive floral arrangements. On the far end of the courtyard, a big band was playing a beautiful arrangement of "I'll Be Home for Christmas". However, the most beautiful aspect was the clear dance floor set atop the pool, which was lit up with green and red lights.
"Edward, my boy!" Aro beamed, scuttling over to us. His dark eyes were twinkling, and he had a bright smile. "So glad you could make it!"
"You didn't give me much of a choice," Edward retorted wryly, shaking Aro's hand. "You remember Isabella Swan, my girlfriend."
"How could I forget you, Isabella?" Aro chuckled, giving me a hug, and kissing my cheeks. "You look beautiful, Isabella. Edward is a lucky, lucky man."
"I'm the lucky one," I murmured.
"How are things going with Long and Winding Road?" he asked, guiding us to the bar and getting us glasses of champagne.
"After the first of the year, we'll start casting. By the beginning of February, we can start with rehearsals and table reads. In the middle of March, we should be able to begin filming. With Elliott's diligent work, we have our locations and we're getting the permits."
"Excellent," Aro sang. "Isabella, will you be involved in filming?"
"Once the movie is cast, I'm leaving it Edward's capable hands," I answered, sipping my champagne. "The book and movie, it hits a little too close to home and I don't know if I can …"
"Completely understandable," Aro nodded. "I've read your other books, Isabella. You are very talented, and the prose of your novels is almost poetic. You immerse the reader in the world you build."
"Oh, wow. Thank you, Aro," I blushed.
"Aro doesn't dole out praise often," Edward grinned widely.
"It's true," Aro smirked, clinking his glass with mine. "I think another book to movie may be in your future, Isabella." He blinked up with his smile widening. "If you excuse me, my wife wants to dance." He walked off, leaving his glass on the bar.
"We can join him," Edward suggested.
"I need more alcohol if you want me to dance," I chuckled, sipping my champagne.
"Don't you remember? It's all in the leading, love," Edward grinned, sliding his arm around my waist. He kissed my lips, humming lowly. "I know I complained about this party, but seeing you all dressed up and being able to hold you? A dream come true."
"You like fabulous in this suit. I've never imagined a maroon suit would look this sexy," I snickered, running my fingers along his lapel. I draped my arms around his shoulders. "Thank you for bringing me, Edward. You could have gone on your own."
"I would never go anywhere without you. We're a team," he murmured, tracing his fingers along my jaw. The band began to play a beautiful instrumental version of "The Christmas Song." "Dance with me, gorgeous."
"I may break your toes," I grimaced as I allowed him to lead me out to the dance floor. He spun me into his arms, and we began swaying simply to the music as he sung the words in my ear. His deep baritone voice wrapped around me like a warm blanket. Edward was not a dancer. He said that he wasn't very good, which was the farthest thing from the truth, but he held me like I was the most precious thing in the world while we glided along the dance floor.
"I love you, Bella," he breathed, his cheek pressed to mine. "In my life, I'd seen that forever love with my parents and I wanted it. So badly. And in Hollywood, people go through spouses like water. I never wanted a fake relationship. I wanted real, forever." He pulled back and his eyes were glimmering like emeralds. "I found that with you, Bella. I know that we're still very new in our relationship, but I can't imagine you not in my life."
I reached up and pressed my hand to his warm cheek. "My life has been one long nightmare until I landed in San Francisco. There? I found my true family and I was able to flourish. However, it wasn't truly living. I went through the motions of … everything. I was starved for affection. I just wanted to be loved. I knew my son adored me, just like I loved him. But, I isolated myself. I didn't realize how much I needed you, your patience, your affection, your love until I had it." He reached up and wiped a tear away. "I'm sorry."
"Don't apologize, love," he said. His own eyes were watery.
"Every year, when my heart broke because I couldn't give my son something new and special for Christmas, I wished for someone who loved me. Loved my son, unconditionally. I always will. However, being loved unconditionally? It was my wish. At the time, I felt like that wish was stupid. That no one would want me because I was so broken," I whispered. I looked up at him. "I'm still broken, but like the kintsugi plates from Japan, I've put those broken pieces back together and created something new."
"Something unique and beautiful," Edward murmured. He captured my chin and kissed my mouth, gentle and soft against mine. I faintly heard a camera click. He pulled back, smiling at me tenderly. The camera clicked again. "We made our appearance. Do you want to go?"
"I want to stay a little longer," I replied. "We're here and this is the first time I've … been to a Hollywood party."
"Say no more," he grinned. We left the dance floor, and we got another glass of champagne. We walked over to a group of actors. Edward introduced me to several actors who he'd directed and a few who he'd shared the screen with. They were all friendly, kind, and funny. They were also inhumanly gorgeous, with clear skin, long legs, and perfect bodies.
Amelia Henderson, one of the actresses I was considering to play 'Charlotte' from my novel, smiled at me warmly. She was a little taller than me with dark hair and bright green eyes with a gorgeous Australian accent. She held up her cocktail. "I know that this all pretty overwhelming, but I am having a massive fangirl moment."
"How so?" I asked.
"I'm a huge fan of your writing," she gushed, her grin genuine. "I've read your first novel in one sitting. I've also gobbled up everything else you've written. And then, I got a call from agent, saying that you want me to read for Charlotte? I'm honored, Miss Swan."
"Bella, please," I chuckled. "Also, thank you for the compliment about my books. If you'd like, I can send you autographed copies."
"Oh, my word! Yes," she gushed, taking my hand before hugging me tightly. "Thank you so much."
We exchanged phone numbers and I got her address so I could send her the books. As I was adding her address, Aro stood on the stage. He grinned happily, taking the microphone. "Good evening, everyone," he began. "I hope everyone is having a wonderful time tonight. I wanted to take time to celebrate another successful year. I also wanted to celebrate this upcoming year, as well. You are all amazing actors, directors, and creators and I'm honored that you've worked with Summit or will work with Summit.
"Now, what we do is a job, but with incredible humans such as yourself, I feel like we're a family," Aro gushed, pressing his hand to his chest. "Our family has grown, and I'm honored and humbled at your excitement, experience and eagerness to make Summit the production company it is today." He reached over to take his wife's hand. "When you leave, we have Christmas 'swag bags' for you to enjoy. It's a small token of appreciation for all of the hard work and dedication to our craft." He held up a glass of champagne with a bright, cheery smile. "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!"
There was a rumble of well-wishes and proclamations of 'Merry Christmases'. Edward slid his arm around my waist, and he kissed me sweetly. "The first of many Christmases, gorgeous," he smiled. "I love you … but, I'm ready to get out of here."
"Me, too," I blushed. "I want … would like to …" My cheeks flamed as I looked up at him, feeling desire erupt in my belly.
His hand was gentle as he cupped my face. "You're in charge," he whispered. "Let's get out of here, gorgeous." He took my hand, and we left the party, saying goodbye to the group we were standing with and picking up our hefty swag bags while we waited for Edward's car was pulled up by the valet.
As we drove back to Edward's home, my heart flip-flopped. After years of wishing for a happily ever after, I was getting … finally … my wish was coming true.
Someone who loved me unconditionally, cracks and all.
A/N: Leave me your thoughts … what do you think will happen next chapter? Will they still seal the deal?
Pictures from this chapter are up on my blog. The link for that is on my profile. I'm also on FB: Tufano79's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation. Twitter, too: tufano79.
Up next will be Christmas with Carlisle, Esme, Bella, Seth and Edward and New Year's Eve … which will be up in San Francisco. Not to mention … yeah … ;-)
Thanks for reading! See you on the flipside!