The weeks leading up to Christmas go well overall. I don't get shocked again for one thing, but sadly, Edward and I don't get to make it out to the meadow because it stays too cold, in his opinion. Instead, we spend a couple days cozying up in front of his fire. Even my appointment with him goes well, and I'm able to keep my oxygen levels up for most of the day without the extra help.

"Time for you to put the star up," I tell Emmett, looking over my pretty Christmas tree.

He let me pick the live tree this year, and is finally helping me decorate. Sure, Christmas is only about a week away, but it's better late than never. He's been too busy with work, which hasn't been the worst thing since it's given Edward a chance to stop on his way home to spend a few minutes with me.

I'm a little leary of things going so well but try to think positively.

"The red and white looks really nice," he says. "I still say we could have used some more of the old ornaments though. You've only got like four of the ones we did as kids."

I roll my eyes as he takes the star topper and starts to position it. "Because it's meant to look classy. Lean it a little to the left, and then turn it toward me."

He does as I ask, and I smile, admiring the house. I absolutely love Christmastime.

"Better?"

I nod. "It's perfect."

He steps back with me and looks around happily. "We did good, kid. Mom would be proud."

"Yeah, I think she would. Do you think we can go see them tomorrow?"

"Sure. Have you been there since you got home?"

"Only once."

It's hard for me to sit at the cemetery alone. I can't help but think of the accident, but with the anniversary coming up on the twenty-seventh, I feel the need to see them again. It's just easier when I'm with Emmett.

Suddenly, the bell rings, and Emmett runs ahead of me to get it. We're having Rose and Ben over for dinner, which I made—and added just a little real salt to. It's still mostly a heart-healthy chicken dish.

"Wow, the house looks beautiful!" Rose says. "Your tree, Bella! It really came together well."

"Thank you," I say, leaning in to hug her. "I'm so glad you both could come over. And, Ben, you're still helping me with Call of Duty, right?"

He nods. "Yeah, but I still don't think you're gonna beat your nephews. Well, maybe Jared."

I laugh. "I'm getting better."

"Sure you are."

I pretend to be offended, gasping as my phone rings, and I pull it from my pocket. Edward's beautiful face lights up my screen, and I answer it with my brow pulled together. "Hey, everything okay?"

He literally never calls me. It's always texts to be safe.

"Bella! Sit down for me, if you're not already."

I go over to the couch with everyone's eyes on me. "Okay, I'm sitting. What's wrong?"

He laughs. "Everything is fucking amazing, sweetheart. I just got the call; there might be a heart for you. I couldn't let the transplant coordinator tell you."

His words ring in my ears as my mouth drops, and I'm speechless.

A heart.

A heart for me.

Is this really happening?

Thanks to May, Nole, Fran, Brier, and Meg for prereading and Sally for Beta'ing.