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 …
Chapter Twenty-Three
Bella
The next morning, I made us breakfast. I got up early to prepare the breakfast casserole, pancakes, biscuits, sausage gravy, fresh fruit, and monkey bread. I wanted nothing more than to stay cuddled in Edward's arms. He held me close to his muscular body so tenderly, but with enough strength that I had to wriggle my way out of his grasp. When I was free, his lips pooched out in an adorable pout. I kissed him before walking down to the kitchen.
As I was putting the monkey bread into the oven, my son wandered into the kitchen, scratching his stomach, and yawning widely. His hair was a riotous mess, sitting down at the kitchen island. "You're up awfully early, kiddo," I said, pouring him a glass of orange juice.
"I had to pee, and I smelled breakfast," he mumbled, giving me a sleepy grin. "Edward's also up. I think he was in the shower."
"Are you okay with my relationship with Edward?" I asked.
"Mom, he's amazing and he obviously loves you so much. He said that he loved me, too," Seth explained, a soft grin pulling at his lips. "I wish …"
"You wish what?" I pushed.
"I want Edward to be my dad," Seth sighed. "I told him that and he said that … He treats you so good. He's kind and I … I don't know. What if he goes away?"
"I won't, Seth," Edward said as he walked down the stairs. He was dressed in a pair of jeans and sweater. "I mean, I will have to travel while making the movie, but that doesn't mean that I'm walking away from you or leaving your mom. I'll call you as often as I can. Rest assured, I will also be at your performance of your musical, Seth. I need to support my favorite kid."
Seth's grin brightened to wide smile before he shot off the stool and hugged him tightly. Edward laughed, kissing Seth's forehead. They spoke quietly and I could see how much Seth adored Edward. However, it was Edward's love for my son that made my eyes tear up. "Merry Christmas, Seth," Edward said, hugging him.
"Merry Christmas, Edward," Seth replied. "I'm going to shower. What do I need to wear to go to church?"
"The church we attend is pretty casual. A pair of jeans and a sweater," Edward explained. "We'll leave at eleven and meet up with my parents at the service." Seth nodded, going upstairs to shower. Edward blinked to me with his green eyes heated. He strode over to me, dipping me and kissing my lips. "I woke up alone, gorgeous."
"I wanted to make breakfast," I giggled, nipping at his lower lip. He righted me, swiping my coffee, and taking a sip. "Get your own, bub." He snickered, taking another drink of my coffee before he clipped the leash to Bear. I rolled my eyes as he disappeared out the back door to take the dog for a walk. I poured myself another cup of coffee and finished making breakfast. When my son came down, wearing a pair of dark wash jeans and a button-down, I was putting the food onto the counter. Edward came back inside, licking his lips at the spread on his kitchen counter. "Breakfast is ready."
"This looks great, Mom," Seth said, piling his plate with a little bit of everything I'd made. He kissed my cheek. "Merry Christmas. I love you."
"Merry Christmas, Seth," I grinned. "Eat your breakfast." Edward gave me a plate, urging me to make my own. He brushed his lips over my temple, whispering his love for me. I blushed, plating my breakfast, and sitting down next to my son. After making his plate, Edward joined us.
"This is delicious," Edward moaned. "Seriously, the best thing I've ever eaten for breakfast. Up until this moment, my mom's cinnamon buns were my favorite thing. Ever. Now? All of this."
"It's the least I could do," I chuckled. "You've opened up your home to me and Seth."
"As far as I'm concerned, you're welcome here. Any time," Edward interrupted. "But, I will never say no to a homecooked meal."
"Mom doesn't make this all that often. Only for special occasions," Seth explained. "My birthday, Christmas, Valentine's Day …"
"What about your birthday?" Edward asked. "You deserve something special for your birthday." I shrugged, not responding to his suggestion. I looked at him, begging him with my eyes to let this go. He knew that I didn't care if I lived or died while I was on the road, running from my past. My brain circled in a dark place for a very long time. However, my son did not know about my deep depression. I always put a brave face on for him. Celebrating my birthday wasn't anything I wanted to recognize. As far as I was concerned, my birthday was just another day. I finished my breakfast. "I'm going upstairs to get ready. Seth, can you help Edward with the dishes?"
"Yeah, Mom," he said around a mouthful of biscuit.
I went upstairs, finding something appropriate to wear to church. I pulled out a pair of black leggings with a red sweater dress. I was walking to the shower when Edward ducked inside of his room. "Bella, why don't you celebrate your birthday?"
"It's just another day. Edward, you know how fucked up my head is," I frowned, hugging my clothes to my chest. "I didn't care if I lived or died. That's why I celebrated Seth's birthday. He was my priority. Not me. Never me."
"A world without you in it would be a dark, lonely place," Edward murmured. "The day you were born is important to me. It's important to the young man who is beating himself up for not celebrating your birthday when he was younger."
"That was not my intention," I whispered.
"Bella, gorgeous, you are the most important person in my life and in Seth's life. I want to warn you, he's adamant on making up for all those missed birthdays. He asked for my help," Edward explained, cupping my cheek. "Because I agree with him, I'm going to cater to his every whim. He wants to celebrate you and show you how much he adores you." He leaned down, brushing his lips over mine. "Prepare to be spoiled."
"I don't want a party," I grumped.
"Seth's the boss. What he says, goes," Edward chuckled. "I love you, gorgeous. Your son loves you and he wants to give back some of the love that you showered on him since he was born. Let him, baby." He kissed me once more, stepping back. "Take your time. We're not leaving for another hour."
He left the bedroom and I stared at the closed door for a few moments before going to shower. I took my time, like Edward suggested. I blew dry my hair and applied some simple makeup before getting dressed. I put on a pair of black booties, walking down to the first floor.
"Mom!" Seth exclaimed. "Can we go outside? I want to give you your Christmas present before we go to church."
"Okay," I said. "Where's Edward?"
"Taking Bear out for a walk. He wanted to give us some privacy." Seth took my hand, and we went out onto the back patio, overlooking the angry Pacific Ocean. The waves were crashing against the beach. He held a bag in his hand, and he led me to sit down on the chaise lounge. "First off, I'm sorry for not celebrating your birthday. Edward's going to help me, and I have a lot to make up for …"
"Sweetheart, you don't," I said, taking his hand.
"I can and I will," Seth argued, hugging me tightly. "Just like I couldn't protect you, I should have celebrated your birthday. So, we will." He put the bag in my lap. "Merry Christmas."
I kissed his cheek and opened the present, seeing a familiar mahogany box. It was from the same place where Edward got my pendant. I knew that it was too expensive for my son to buy. Edward must have helped him. Opening the box, there was a simple but beautiful bangle bracelet on the satin pillow. I picked it up, I saw an inscription inside. Remember, Mom, I love you. "Seth …" I whispered.
"I don't say it enough, Momma. I love you. Even when things were awful, you loved and supported me. You were both mother and father, never giving up on me," he grinned, kissing my cheek. "I won't ever give up on you." He took the bracelet and put it onto my right wrist. There were two gemstones on it – a sapphire and a garnet – our birthstones. "We can add more if you ever have any more children."
"I can't have any more babies, Seth," I whispered. "When you were born, I lost a lot of blood …"
"Adoption," he suggested. "Mom, you have so much love to give. But, even if you don't, you have me."
"This is beautiful, Seth," I murmured, running my fingers along the gemstones. "I'll wear it. Always."
"That's what I wanted," he grinned. "Come on. It's almost time to leave for church."
I cupped my son's cheek. "We may not have had much when you were little, but we had each other. I love you, Seth. You are the light of my life and I'm so lucky to have you as my son."
"I'm the lucky one," Seth responded, hugging me.
We went inside and Edward had just come back from his walk with Bear. The dog was curled up underneath the tree, gnawing on his bone while we put on our coats. Getting into Edward's Mercedes, we drove to recently rebuilt church in Malibu. It had been completely destroyed by wildfires a few summers ago. Edward parked next to a sleek black Tesla SUV. He explained that it was his parents' car, leading us inside of the modern sanctuary. It was decorated elegantly, but still festive. Carlisle and Esme were just inside. Esme hugged me while Carlisle shook Seth's hand and grinned at his son.
Sitting down in the sanctuary, the service began with traditional carols and a beautiful choir. Edward reached over, threading his fingers with mine. I blushed, smiling at him as he gave me his signature crooked grin. "Merry Christmas, my love. The first of many, I hope."
"I love you, Edward," I whispered, kissing his cheek. "This has been the most wonderful Christmas. I can't remember being this happy. Ever."
"It'll only get better from here," he whispered back, capturing my lips with his. Seth snickered next to us with a coy smirk on his face. We both blushed, looking at the pastor in the front of the congregation.
The service was the perfect combination of traditional and contemporary elements. The music was beautiful, and I was in awe of the musicians. At the end of the service, we left the church without any fanfare. When we pulled out of the parking lot, Seth leaned forward from the backseat. "I'm surprised no one came over to ask for an autograph or something," he said.
"We've been long time parishioners at this church. A lot of Hollywood actors, actresses and directors attend this church and the pastor made it abundantly clear that this is a place of worship. Not a place to worship their favorite actors and performers. So, we can attend here without fear of being approached or photographed," Edward explained. "I was so grateful for that at the height of my popularity. The only place I felt solace was in my parents' home and at church. Everywhere else? My privacy was invaded. I was on display."
"Is that why you moved from being on screen to directing?" I asked.
"Part of it. I still have the ability to be creative, but without the invasion of privacy. I'm still recognized. I will happily pose for a picture with a fan, but with my permission," he grinned. "Every so often I'm in the tabloid magazines, but since I live a relatively quiet life, I'm ignored." His ears turned red.
"What's with this?" Seth asked, pointing to Edward's ears. "Are you embarrassed?"
"Not embarrassed," Edward snickered. "When your mom and I went out on our first date, our pictures were in the tabloids."
"They were?" I asked, arching a brow.
"My publicist showed them to me," he explained. "It was nothing bad. The pictures were from our time on Olvera Street, dancing in front of the fountain. You were described as the unnamed beauty that captured my heart. A couple weeks later, a picture from our time on the ferry to Alcatraz, you were named and that we were head over heels in love. Both photos were respectful. What they said also wasn't a lie … you have captured my heart and I'm definitely head over heels in love with you, gorgeous."
We drove back to the house, picking up Bear and a bottle of expensive wine from the Summit swag bag. After a short ride, we parked in the driveway of Carlisle and Esme's home. Since our presents had already been delivered, we walked inside and were hugged by Edward's family.
On the kitchen counter, there were appetizers and finger foods. My walking stomach, also known as my son, made himself a plate while Edward and I sat down in the living room. Carlisle, donning a Santa hat, began passing out presents. Seth sat down on the floor in front of the fireplace, shocked at the pile of presents he'd received from everyone. I was shocked when I saw a present from Alice.
She hated me.
I didn't necessarily care for her, either.
But, she got me a present?
Probably not … the gift was more than likely from Carlisle and Esme, and they put her name on the tag.
Esme brought some mulled cider, sitting down next to her husband. "Merry Christmas and may the new year bring you so much happiness and love."
"Merry Christmas," Edward grinned.
"We're so happy you're with us on Christmas," Carlisle said. "I hope that this is the first of many."
"Me, too. Thank you for opening your home to me and to my son," I replied softly.
"You're always welcome. Hopefully, next year, we'll have everyone here for Christmas," Esme said, sipping her cider.
"Can we open presents?" Edward snickered. "I can see Seth eyeing his pile with longing."
"Sorry," Seth chuckled, popping a piece of cheese in his mouth.
"We spoiled you, Seth," Carlisle smirked. "Anything you don't like; we can exchange or return."
"Thank you," Seth grinned, tearing into his presents. We all followed suit, with tissue paper and wrapping paper flying. Bear attacked the paper with an adorable doggy grin.
Seth wasn't the only one spoiled. I got so many expensive gifts from Carlisle and Esme. I felt so guilty that I hadn't gotten them more. Edward said that his parents were incredibly generous and the money they'd spent on the gifts for me, Seth, and their children, they also donated that same amount to a local charity. This year, they donated to a women's shelter, a safe place that provided battered and homeless women job training, child, and medical care.
One of the last gifts I opened was the present from Alice. I pulled a beautiful leather-bound journal. It was engraved with my initials on the front in a delicate, loopy font. I opened the journal and a piece of paper fell out. It was a letter from Alice.
Dear Bella,
I know that I'm the last person you want to hear from on Christmas. I've done so much to undermine your relationship with my brother and to disprove your integrity. As a result of that, I've changed the relationship with my family.
That's no one's fault but mine. I was so wrong in how I acted.
So wrong …
I know that we'll probably never be friends, but I know that you are going to be a part of my brother's life. He loves you so much. He probably won't want to let you go. That means that we'll become family. I cannot make up for what I did to you and the role I played in what you're dealing with currently, but I would like to have some sort of relationship with you.
You're incredibly brave, smart, and strong. I was harsh in my judgment of you, and I'll forever hate myself for it. I also ruined a chance of being with someone I really cared for in sleeping with your friend, Jasper. I only saw him as a means to an end, but my feelings grew rapidly for him. Because of my choices, I won't be able to be with him and that's something I need to accept.
I … I am really happy that you've found my brother. I've never seen him so happy. Ever. I should have looked past my prejudices to see that you are it for him. He loves you and he loves your son. I also recognize that you love him, but more than that, you need him.
With this gift, perhaps you can start your next big story. Or, it's a place for you process everything that's happening. I've started journaling and it's helped me realize how wrong I was. It also helped me process it all.
I hope to see you soon. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
All the best,
Alice
"Read this," I whispered to Edward, handing them letter from his sister.
"Hell has frozen over," he said, his eyes skimming the hand-written letter. "She admitted she was wrong."
"Edward," Esme chided. "Your sister did betray your trust, but we need to move on, for the good of the family. She's extended an olive branch."
"Okay, okay," Edward huffed, rolling his eyes. "I know I should forgive and forget."
"You don't have to forget, but forgive her," Esme said. "You may never be okay with Alice. I accept that and I respect it. I hope, in time, that you'll be able to …" Esme trailed off, shaking her head. It was clear she adored her daughter and would fight for her, but she was upset at Alice's decisions. She got up, kissing her husband's cheek, and walked to the kitchen to begin working on dinner. I went to stand up, but Edward murmured for me to stay. He got up and went to help his mother.
"I know my daughter wronged you and it will take some time for you to … move past it. I don't blame you," Carlisle said quietly. "I hate the rift between my children, but Alice brought this on herself. I love my daughter and always will, but her behavior told me so much about her character."
"I hate that …" I trailed off. "It's my fault."
"No, Bella. Not yours," Carlisle nodded. "It will take time for this rift to seal, but it was never your fault. Please don't think that. We're happy you're a part of the family and that Edward has found someone to love so much."
"He means so much to me and to my son," I murmured, curling up on the couch.
"As you mean so much to him," Carlisle said with a warm smile. "Do not fret over what Alice did … not today. Enjoy the time with us and your son."
After that, things were pretty quiet. Seth was trying to figure out his new iPad, loading it up with apps with the gift card he'd received from Edward. I stared at the fire that was lit in the fireplace, idly twisting the bracelet my son gave me. Some music filtered through the speakers, jazzy renditions of Christmas standards.
Dinner was served a few hours later. Esme made beef tenderloin with creamed spinach and potato casserole. Despite the absence of Alice and tension in the air prior to dinner, things were comfortable and pleasant. Carlisle and Esme shared their plans for the beginning of the new year. I told them about my newest book series and my preliminary hopes to get it out before Edward began filming in March. I also told them about the various conventions I was planning on attending to promote my books.
Seth and I did the dishes with Carlisle while Edward and Esme set up for dessert. After enjoying dessert, we loaded up the presents into Edward's car. Hugs were passed around before we left. Carlisle and Esme said that they were looking forward to seeing us again soon.
As I went to bed in Edward's arms that night, I couldn't help but feeling unsettled about the whole situation with Alice. Could I let go of the underlying feelings of hurt and betrayal and accept Alice?
Only time would tell …
xx Blockbuster xx
After a couple more days in Malibu, we decided to head back to San Francisco. Our plans to go to Disney Land never materialized and Seth was eager to get back home to hang out with his buddies from school. So, with a few phone calls, a private plane was arranged, and we left Malibu on December 29th, flying back to San Francisco with Edward in tow.
Once we landed, another limo was waiting for us, and we got into the backseat. The driver navigated the streets in San Francisco, arriving at my neighborhood. I had to grant the car access, but when we arrived at my modest home, I smiled. It felt good to be back. I loved Edward's house, but it was his home. The place I'd purchased in response to my apartment being broken into was truly mine.
I bought it with the money from the sales of my books and optioning off the rights of my first novel.
"I see that smile, gorgeous," Edward chuckled. "Happy to be home?"
"Don't get me wrong. I love your place and I love spending time with you in your place, but this place is mine," I shrugged.
"I get it," he responded, opening the car door. "I feel the same way when I'm reunited with you." My heart melted. Edward truly was perfect … in so many ways. He accepted me, shattered pieces, and all. He loved me, loved my son. "Come on, love. Let's get inside and settled."
"I probably need to go grocery shopping. I emptied out the fridge before we left for Malibu," I explained.
"Mom, let's just order a pizza," Seth said. "We have soda, and we can go shopping tomorrow."
"That sounds like a great idea," I grinned, sliding out of the car, and hooking the leash to Bear's collar. Edward paid for the limo. I opened the garage door and went inside. I turned off the security system, walking up to the main level. "Give me your dirty laundry, Seth. I'll put a load in tonight."
"Okay," Seth nodded, kissing my cheek before he disappeared into his room.
Edward walked into the house, dragging up both his bags and mine. "I got a text from Emmett," he said.
"They're back?" I asked.
"They saw the limo drive past their house. We've been invited to a New Year's Eve party at their place," Edward chuckled.
"Sounds like fun," I smiled. "I'll call Rose to see if I can bring anything."
"After you order pizza," Edward quipped. "I'm hungry."
"You and Seth …" I laughed.
Ordering pizza and some other delicious take out, we ate dinner and watched Captain America while I started laundry. Seth expressed an interest in watching all the Marvel movies, in chronological order for the rest of his break. While they vegged out, I worked on finishing up the first draft of the novel of newest series. I was writing the epilogue when the dryer buzzed.
"I'll get it," Edward said, kissing my temple. "You keep working."
"How long have I been …?" I asked.
"The movie ended an hour ago. Seth went to bed, and I took Bear out for a walk. You were in the zone," he laughed. "You finish up. I can see how close you are to the end of your book."
"Thank you," I smiled. "Fifteen minutes. I'll need to send it off to Jasper and my editor." He kissed my lips, jogging downstairs to deal with the laundry. About twenty minutes later, the first draft was sent off and I went upstairs. Edward was folding our clothes and I giggled when he held up one of my bras. "This is something I never expected to see; an Academy Award winning director folding my lingerie …"
"I really must love you, but I much rather keep these off your body," he quipped. "Easy access."
"Perv," I teased, picking up my pajamas from the bed.
"I've had a taste. Now, I want more," he snickered as I closed the door to the master bathroom.
The following few days were spent in San Francisco. Seth hung out with his friends while Edward and I did some exploring, enjoying time together before things got crazy with the movie.
On New Year's Eve, we got semi-dressed up before driving over to Rose and Emmett's. I brought over some homemade Swedish meatballs and spinach artichoke dip with pita chips. Seth was carrying some turtle brownies we'd made the night previous.
Inside of the house, Emmett took the food and Seth put the dessert in the dining room. Along with the usual suspects and the handful of employees from McCoffee Café, I recognized some parents from Seth's school. Edward was probably going to be inundated with fangirls, but he seemed relaxed.
Rose came over to us, hugging me tightly. She looked sexy in a gold sequined mini dress with black tights. "I've missed you, Bella. You look great. Very relaxed."
I rolled my eyes, trying to hide my flush. I was in a black dress with a white jacket on top. My hair was curled, pinned back from my face. "I'm happy to be back and to have the first draft of my newest novel finished."
"Jasper told me that he got it when he was flying back from New York. He had a meeting with a potential new author. He high tailed it out of the parental's home as soon as he could. He wanted to strangle our mother. She was extra judgmental this year," Rose deadpanned, handing me and Edward a glass of wine. "Let's just say that this is the last time we're going to their house for Christmas. I did not need the extra judgment with a side of guilt. How was your Christmas? Was Santa good to you?"
"I got to spend the holiday with my favorite people," Edward said. "Bella also got some new bling."
Rose's eyes widened and she picked up my left hand. "Not there, you dork," I snorted.
"When I propose, it'll be a huge deal," Edward retorted, giving me a loving grin. "I won't be able to hide the fact that I'm marrying her, but no ring. Not yet. Around the neck …"
I opened my jacket, showing off my new necklace. Rose's eyes twinkled as she grinned at Edward. "Nice job, Cullen. It makes a statement without being over the top. I approve."
"I'm glad you do," Edward deadpanned.
"Who else is here?" I asked. "Did you invite Caius?"
"I did, but he had some lawyery thing he had to attend," Rose answered. "We also invited Moira and Annika, but they were in Colorado on a ski excursion." She looped her arm through mine. "Do you mind if I borrow her, Edward? Jasper and Emmett are in the living room."
Edward nodded, kissing my cheek gently. "Love you, gorgeous. I can't wait to kiss you at midnight."
"This will be the first time I have someone to kiss at midnight," I blushed. Edward gave me his beautifully crooked grin before heading to the living room. Rose dragged me into the kitchen, a secretive grin on her face. "What is that look, Rosalie McCarty?"
"You got some," she whispered, her eyes wide.
"Oh my God," I groaned, hiding my face as it flushed. "Rose!"
"Don't deny it, chickadee," Rose snickered. "How was it?"
I grabbed her arm and dragged her into one of the kids' rooms. I didn't want an audience as I told her. "Edward and I haven't had sex. We fooled around, but didn't make love."
"Did he focus on you?" she asked. "Or was he a selfish lover?"
"It was all about me," I whispered, idly picking up the new pendant around my neck. "We kissed and I felt how turned on he was, but for all intents and purposes, he wanted to touch me. His fingers were gentle, and I never felt that way, Rosalie. Never. I felt like my body was a livewire with electrical pulses of pleasure."
"Wait a minute … you never had an orgasm?" she hissed with her eyes wide in shock. "Not even while playing solitaire?"
"When I left Forks, I didn't have any privacy. Plus, I was disgusted with my body. It wasn't my own body anymore. What Jacob did to me scared me and I thought that sex was supposed to hurt, that it was punishment. I didn't realize, naively, that sex could be something beautiful. You told me that," I said, staring at a pile of clothes on the floor. "Edward showed me that love shouldn't hurt. That it's supposed to feel good."
Rose wrapped her arms around my body and hugged me tightly. "Oh, sweetie, I'm so glad that Edward is taking care of you. He's such an amazing guy. You deserve him."
"What if I can't truly be with him? What if we get to the point where we make love and I freeze?" I asked.
"You won't, but if you do, I'm certain that Edward will understand," she assured me. "My guess is that he said that you're in charge?" I nodded. "He's not Jacob. Edward loves you, so much. He'd wait forever for you."
"I … I know that," I said. "I love him, too. I want to give him that. I want to give him me, but when that was taken away from me, I'm terrified."
"Jacob took away your choice with him. You have a choice to share yourself with Edward. It's your choice. Your body," she said quietly. "I think … I think we'll keep Seth with us tonight. You need some time alone with Edward, on your terms. Usher in the new year with a bang." She took my hands and stared into my eyes. "Do it in the comfort of your home … Love him."
"Let me think about it," I said.
"Even if you don't make love to him, you can still explore," Rose suggested with a secretive look on her face. "Come on. Let's head back out before the harpies descend on your man."
I captured her arm, looking up at her. "If something happens … when we … what if I clam up?" I whispered. "I …"
"Call me, Bells. You're my sister in every way that counts. I'm here for you," Rose smiled, hugging me tightly. "You deserve all the happiness in the world. With Edward and Seth, you'll get it. Love you, Bells."
"Love you, too," I said.
We walked outside, topping off our wine glasses before finding Edward and Emmett in the living room. They were talking Jasper and his date for the evening, another woman who I did not recognize. Jasper introduced her as a friend. Her name was Gina, and they ran into each other at the airport on his way back from New York. She seemed nice, in San Francisco for a job interview at the Twitter headquarters. She definitely more personable than his date for Thanksgiving.
Edward was the center of attention. Kate and her husband, Garrett, suctioned themselves to us and looked at my boyfriend like he hung the moon. They only saw his celebrity, not the wonderful, kind man behind the public persona. He was patient as he answered their questions, telling them the truth about being a celebrity.
Around midnight, Rose and Emmett passed out noise makers, glasses of sparkling wine or grape juice to the kids and various tiaras and sashes celebrating the new year. Edward sidled up to me, his arm around my waist. "I'm so happy that we're ringing in the New Year together, gorgeous. I love you."
"I love you, too," I whispered, kissing his cheek. He captured my chin, grinning crookedly. His eyes sparkled behind the obnoxious glasses he wore. He dipped his head, gliding his mouth over mine. I moaned, gripping his shirt until Seth cleared his throat loudly.
"It's nice to know you two like each other," Seth deadpanned.
"I love your mother, bud and I like to show off how much I love her," Edward smirked, kissing me again.
"Behave," I snickered, lightly smacking Edward's side.
His laugh was musical as he held me closer. "I love you, too, Seth," he grinned. He held up his champagne flute. "To a wonderful new year and great things to come."
Seth clinked his plastic cup to Edward's glass, hugging my boyfriend. "Love you, too, Edward. Thank you for loving me and my mom." Edward kissed Seth's forehead, returning his embrace.
"It's almost time!" Emmett yelled, turning on a television.
"Do you have any resolutions?" Seth asked us. "For the New Year?"
"Be happy," I answered simply.
Edward looked at me, understanding in his evergreen eyes. He barely touched his lips to mine before answering my son's question, "Finding joy in the small things and relishing in that joy."
"I like that," Seth grinned.
"What about you, Seth?" I asked.
"Try something new," he answered. "I know that I'm a creature of habit. I want to try at least one new thing a month for this year."
"What are you going to try in January?" Edward asked, a coy grin on his face.
"Nick invited me to rock climbing with his family next weekend," Seth answered. "I know you will be dealing with casting the film. So, Nick invited me to spend the weekend. If that's okay?"
"That works out for the best. I'll talk to Nick's mom this week," I grinned.
"Thanks, Mom," Seth crowed, hugging me tightly. "I'm going to tell Nick! Happy New Year! Love you!"
He disappeared into the crowd, finding his friend. The countdown begun in the living room. Edward put his glass down, drawing me in his arms. "I have one more resolution …" he whispered, pressing his forehead to mine. "To love you forever."
"Edward …" I whispered, my eyes fluttering shut.
"I can't imagine a moment where I won't love you," he breathed, kissing me tenderly.
"I love you, so much," I replied. As time marched forward, ushering in the New Year, I kissed him again. The cheers of 'Happy New Year' rang around us, but we were lost in our own little world, kissing, and swaying to music playing on the speakers. I slid my hands up his shoulders, my fingers finding his soft hair at the nape of his neck. Inhaling deeply, I looked up at him. "I want you. I want us."
"Bella, you have me, gorgeous," he murmured.
"Remember what I said about trying?" I asked with my face flaming. His eyes widened slightly as understanding settled on his handsome face. "Rose and Emmett said that Seth can stay tonight, and we can …"
"I've said this before and I'll say it again. You're in charge, Bella," he breathed, taking my face in his warm, large hands.
"Let's say goodbye to Seth and …" I trailed off suggestively.
His gaze grew heated, pressing his lips to mine. With a low growl, he took my hand, and we found my son toasting in the New Year with Cooper and Nick. I told him that he's spending the night with Emmett and Rose. After wishing Edward and me a happy New Year, Seth hugged me, turning back to his friends.
Edward and I got into my SUV, driving back to my home. I could feel my heart slamming against my ribs. I was anxious, but excited. Edward would never hurt me. He showed me every day that he loved me. I wanted to give him all of me.
This was my choice. My body … my love.
I wanted to start the new year out right, by sharing my love with the man who loved me and whom I loved.
A/N: So … what do you think? Leave me your thoughts.
It goes without saying that there will be a citrus alert for the next chapter. Will they or won't they?
Pictures are on my blog. You can access that through a link on my profile. I'm also on FB: Tufano's Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation. Twitter, too: tufano79.
Thanks for reading!