Outtake Three - BPOV

Bella and Edward Go All the Way

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~ Approximately one year after their rescue from the Whitwatcher Islands ~

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"Peek-a-boo!"

Little Jane with her corn-silk blonde hair giggles when I drop the blanket, revealing I've been hiding behind it all along. Alec isn't impressed and promptly begins gnawing on his caterpillar stuffed toy. My niece and nephew are both cute as can be, but their personalities could not be more different.

Alice, their mother and my sister, is standing in front of my opened closet. "Hmm. Decisions, decisions." She turns around. "Tell me more about this trip. What else will you guys do while you're in Chicago?"

I stop playing with the babies and squint my eyes as I think. "Well... Edward and I are visiting for three days. The first night is his parents' fancy fortieth wedding anniversary party. It's supposed to be the social event of the season. The rest of the trip will be mostly sightseeing, I guess. He talked about showing me Navy Pier and Millennium Park."

"Then you'll need some warm, comfy clothes to take with you. I hear Chicago is awfully chilly this time of year." She grabs a couple of sweaters and folds them into my suitcase. "So, are you nervous?"

"About what?"

"Visiting Edward's parents."

"Not really. I've already seen them twice in the year since Edward and I started dating."

"That was different, Bella. Both times they came here to Seattle. Now you're going to be on their home turf - with a legion of relatives clamoring to meet you."

"If the relatives are anything like his parents, I'll be fine. His mom is nice - and beautiful! I think she might be Geena Davis' doppelgänger. And Edward's dad is a total charmer. They're great people. Hey! Wanna hear how they met? Masen & Associates hired Elizabeth right after she graduated law school. Ed Senior said he fell in love the moment she walked into the office. Isn't that sweet?"

Alice stops fussing with the suitcase for a moment. "I didn't know Edward's mom was a lawyer too."

"Was? She still is! Elizabeth is the epitome of a career woman. She has no plans to retire anytime soon."

My sister tilts her head musingly. "It's funny how just about everyone in Edward's family works for the firm. He must feel like the black sheep when he visits."

"Nah. I don't think it matters much to them anymore that he decided against being a lawyer. They just want him to be happy. Besides, he doesn't see his family too often. The last time he was in Chicago was like three years ago."

"Why the long dry spell between visits?"

I frown a little. "He usually avoids family gatherings that include his brother and sister-in-law."

"Oh, that's the cheating ex and that jerk of a brother, isn't it? No wonder Edward hasn't been home much! How can his extended family accept those two after what they did to him?"

"From what I've gathered, it took a long time before the family forgave the cheating aspect of how they came together. But it's been seventeen years. Most of the younger generation have no idea she was once Edward's fiancée. To the world at large they're just Mr. and Mrs. Peter Masen: the perfect couple belonging to Chicago's social elite."

Alice makes a face as she adds a pair of sensible (yet also stylish) shoes to the suitcase. "Ugh, gag me." Her eyes dart to meet mine. "Oh no. Won't they be at the anniversary party too?"

"Yes, but since it's going to be this huge gala event with hundreds of people in attendance, Edward feels better about going. It's unlikely we'll see them. And even if that does happen, it won't be a big deal. We'll just turn the other way and go about our business."

"That's a good idea. Don't let them spoil your fun."

"We won't."

Jane interrupts the flow of conversation by handing over one of her toys to me. Interpreting that as meaning she wants to play, I happily accept the job. She and Alec watch as I make the doll "dance" around the edge of their playpen. This earns me smiles from both of them.

"Aww!" coos Alice. "Isn't that cute? They just love their goofy Aunt Bella."

"I am not goofy!"

She raises an eyebrow. "You had that doll doing the Macarena."

"So? The Macarena isn't that bad."

"It's only one step above the Chicken Dance, Bella - but I forgive the goofiness since it made my little angels happy." Her eyes suddenly turn misty. "I'm so glad everything worked out. I can't imagine what life would have been like if we had really lost you."

I point my finger at her. "Don't do this again, Alice. When you cry, I cry."

"I can't help it! Those weeks you were missing were the worst. Everyone kept saying you wouldn't have suffered for long after the ship exploded - but I couldn't accept it. It didn't feel like you were gone, you know? I told myself not to give up hope that you were alive. Still... I was so afraid Jane and Alec would never get to meet you!"

Her quivering lip breaks down my defenses. A teardrop leaks from my eye. "I was afraid of that too," I whisper.

"Oh, Bella!"

She abandons the suitcase and crashes into me. How long the hug lasts, I can't say. Only a light knocking on the bedroom door finally ends our crying-fest.

"Is something wrong?"

I wipe away the wetness from my cheek and smile at Edward. Even after all this time, having him nearby is a thrill. I vividly remember the day he first stepped foot inside my apartment. We had been apart for well over a month. I had to leave the tropics behind and return home to see my family. Edward had to stay at his ship's home port for a while to answer questions regarding the sinking of Breaking Dawn. There was also another much more important reason for him to delay our reunion. Edward didn't feel right about leaving his best friend alone in the hospital for several weeks. But as soon as Emmett was released into Rosalie's care to recover, Edward flew to Seattle to start his new life. I met him at the airport where we grossed out bystanders with our PDA. Then, I drove him to my home. I threw myself at him the moment the door closed behind us. Over the course of several hours, I introduced him to every flat to semi-flat surface of my apartment.

Good times were had by all.

Like a gentleman, he didn't want to rush me into anything relationship-wise. He originally planned to find his own place to live. That never happened. Whenever he mentioned he was going apartment hunting, I would immediately seduce him. He missed several appointments. Eventually, he figured out my strategy of distraction and asked if I wanted him to move in.

Not only is he handsome, he's also very intelligent - which makes him a million times more sexy.

"Everything's fine, Edward," I reply soothingly. "Alice and I are just really happy."

"You're happy... so that's why you're crying?"

"Yep!" Alice answers.

Edward's visible confusion continues unabated. I walk over to give him a quick kiss. "Don't worry. It's a sister thing."

"Right..." he drawls. He glances over at the opened suitcase. "You're packing already? Chicago isn't for another week."

"Today was the only time Alice could swing by the apartment. She always helps me pack for big, important trips."

"Is that a 'sister thing' too?"

"No, it's a 'I want to make a good impression on your family thing'. Alice is my fashion guide, remember? She makes sure my clothes are up to standard. Even the dress I'm wearing for your parents' anniversary party is Alice approved."

"Is that so? I'd like to see it."

"I'm sure you would... but, nope. You'll have to wait until the night of the party to see the dress." At his look of disappointment, I lower my voice. "Consider it your surprise."

His expression lifts. "Is it good?"

"Very good," I purr into his ear.

"In that case, I'll be patient and wait for my surprise."

I smile at him. He smiles back. The air crackles between us. If it wasn't for little Alec picking this very moment to whine at Jane for stealing his toy, I might have forgotten we had company and climbed Edward this very instant.

He backs away a safe distance, looking as sexually frustrated as I feel. He makes his way over to the dresser and starts digging through the top drawer.

"What are you doing?" I ask.

"I need to change shirts," he explains. "There's a Zoom meeting in twenty minutes."

"What for?"

"One of the new investors got cold feet. He's threatening to back out if we can't show proof that this resort idea isn't a scam."

"Seriously? There's already construction going on and he still thinks it might not be real?"

Edward pulls out a light blue button-down shirt and closes the drawer. "He's just being overly cautious. I'm sure I'll have him back on our side by the end of the meeting."

"Excuse me," Alice pipes in. "Please say you're not planning on wearing that shirt for the Zoom meeting, Edward."

He furrows his brow. "Actually, that's exactly what I was planning."

She sighs. "Ice blue is wrong for your complexion. You'll be washed out on camera."

"And that's bad?"

"Uh, yeah! If you were to wear this shirt, it would make you look pale as a ghost." She rummages through the drawer while he stands dumbly off to the side. The shirt in his hands is replaced with an alternative. "I recommend this olive button-down. It looks great with your warm skin tone, and it comes with the added benefit of bringing out the color of your eyes. The investor will love it!"

"So, you're saying that by wearing this shirt, it will somehow convince him to not back out of the deal?" says Edward doubtfully.

"Not directly. Think of it this way: It's all about impressions. Who would you rather do business with - a guy who looks healthy and confident in this gorgeous olive shirt, or the guy who's pale and sickly in the icky ice blue?"

"Um... the first one?"

"Ding, ding, ding! You're right! I knew you'd understand eventually." Her moment of elation is put on hold when she sprints to the closet. She comes out with two additional items. "To top off the look, a necktie is a must. Which do you prefer - this dark forest green or the neutral stone-gray?"

Still confused as ever, he turns to me with pleading eyes. "Which one should I pick?"

I shrug a shoulder. "Don't look at me; I'm no good at this either. I just go with whatever Alice tells me. She hasn't steered me wrong yet."

He switches back to Alice. "Which of these do you suggest?"

"The gray one."

He slips the necktie from her fingers. "All right. Thanks for your help."

"It was no problem. We're practically related now! I love helping my family whenever I can." Just as he is about to leave, she grins impishly. "But you are very welcome, Cabana Boy One."

He slams to a stop, surprise written all over him. His reaction changes upon seeing my flushed face. He smirks, shakes his head, and chuckles as he exits the room.

As soon as he's gone, Alice twirls around on her toes. "He's a good sport. I think he's getting used to my sense of humor!"

The stuffed toy I throw bounces off her stupid head. "I told you to stop calling him that! You're going to scare him off!"

"Scare him away from you?" She tosses back her head and laughs. "Whatever! I could go into overprotective sister mode and threaten to chop off his balls if he ever came near you again, and he still wouldn't leave you alone."

"You really think so?"

"I know so. I've never seen a man so smitten... except for my Jasper, of course. He loves me just as much. So, to be fair, I guess I'll say our men are equally smitten with us." She falls backward onto the bed. "Break time! Tell me the story again."

"What story?"

"The one where he pops the question."

"Again? I've told you like four times already."

"That was over the phone, Bella. Now I'm exactly where it happened. I want to close my eyes and imagine I was here to see it myself. Indulge me, please."

I make myself comfortable by the twins' playpen and reminisce aloud. "It was a lazy Sunday. I had just gotten back from my trip to Uruguay the evening before, so I was sleeping in later than I do normally. I woke up to the most delicious smell-"

"Did Edward cook breakfast for you?"

"No, it was French toast with blueberries from that cafe down the street. They usually sell out of it before nine o'clock, so he got up extra early to beat the crowd."

"Aww! What were you wearing?"

"Why does that matter?"

"To set the scene, I need the details."

I roll my eyes. "I was in my pajamas."

"The lacy, sexy kind?"

"No, the comfortable kind."

She giggles. "I should have known. What happened next?"

"He had everything we'd need set out on a tray and we ate breakfast in bed. It felt comfortable... relaxed. And when we were finished eating, he swept me into his arms and laid us down. I thought we were going to take a nap! But no, he brought up a subject we talked about back when we first met. He asked if what I wanted out of life was still the same. You know the deal: Career, marriage, kids... My dream hasn't changed, so that's what I told him. He went quiet. Then he asked if we could work on making those things a reality for us both." My voice goes soft at the memory. "If I hadn't been laying down, I think I would have fainted. I thought I was going to be the one having to convince him to marry me. Turns out, he was only waiting for the right time to ask. And the very next day we went out and bought my ring."

"You weren't disappointed he didn't give you a ring right away?"

"No." I smile to myself. "He knows how I like to have a say in things which affect me."

I glance down at my left hand. The ring we picked together isn't flashy, outrageously expensive, or so huge it weighs down my finger. It's a simple solitaire with our initials engraved inside the band. I couldn't be more happier with it.

Alice sighs dreamily. "And look at you now. You've got the job you've always wanted, someone who loves you unconditionally, and soon you'll be living on a tropical island that you own. Aren't you glad you didn't marry Mike the Man-baby?"

I snort. "Isn't that the truth. I have a feeling if I had went through with the marriage, Mike would have demanded that I wait at the alter while he walked down the aisle. He always loved being the center of attention."

She wrinkles her nose. "Just so you know, I would have tripped him. Seeing him land on his face in front of an audience would have been glorious."

"Thank you, Alice. I can always rely on you to have my back."

She rises into a sitting position on the bed. "Enough about Mike. Let's talk wedding! What are the plans?"

"You might want to ask Mom that question," I grumble. "I made the mistake of going to her for advice, and now she's taken the wedding planning over completely. Edward and I wanted something small and intimate, but Renee Swan decided it should be big and impressive. The last I checked, the guest list was approaching two hundred and fifty - and I don't even know most of them! I think she's confusing our wedding with Forks' annual carnival."

"Yikes. Have you tried talking to her?"

"Yes. Whenever I tell her she's going overboard, she says I deserve to be spoiled for once and to stop complaining. The Masens insisted they fund everything, so Mom thinks she has their permission to go wild."

"I'm sorry, Bella. Maybe Dad and I can try to get her to see reason."

I exhale through my nose. "That would be great. I need all the help I can get to rein her in."

A baby's cry puts our conversation on hold. Her arms outstretched, Jane fusses to be let out of the playpen. Her brother fell asleep, leaving her lonely. I lift her up and bounce her on my hip. Although she fights it at first, she gradually nods off.

"I'm glad you brought the twins today," I say while admiring the sleeping toddler in my arms. "I don't get to see them enough."

"I'm sure they would say the same if they could talk. You can see in their little faces how much they love you." Alice smiles. "You're going to be a great mother."

My smile surpasses hers. "Thanks. That means a lot to me coming from you."

"Don't thank me. I'm only speaking the truth." She sucks in her cheeks. She also does that thing with her eyes that makes her look more innocent. "So... can I expect to meet my new niece or nephew within - say - the next few months?"

"Don't hold your breath. Edward and I have made a schedule, and kids won't be happening until much later."

"A schedule? Fascinating. Tell me more, please."

"It's simple. We've got the rest of our lives planned out. First, we get married. Second, we meet our career goals. Lastly, we work on starting a family."

"You guys will have to work on starting a family?" She giggles. "I wasn't aware you consider sex to be work! Does that mean you're scheduling it now, clocking in and out? Where's the romance in that?"

I huff at her joke. "We are not scheduling sex. We're holding off on having children until we're financially stable."

"Um, what? Did I hear you right? He's got a trust fund and insurance money from the yacht, Bella. And from what you've told me, you've got a great job with a great income. You can't get more 'financially stable' than you are already."

I shake my head. "You're forgetting that most of Edward's net worth is tied up in the resort. He'll be flying to and from the island to oversee construction until we move there permanently. It's going to be a year or more before the resort is ready to open - which means he won't be seeing any profits for a long time.

"And don't even get me started on my job. The pay might be good but the job itself is demanding. Last month I rode a pack mule in freezing temperatures down an old Incan trail, and then I wrote about the experience while a deadline loomed over my head. Talk about stressful. See how crazy our lives are at the moment? Fifty percent of the time nobody's home. You can't raise a baby in those conditions!"

"It sounds like you've put a lot of thought into this." She pouts. "No fair. I wanted to be an aunt now."

"You can't rush this. When the time is right, that's when we'll try for a baby. Until then, you're just going to have to wait."

Without explanation, she does a hopeful about-face. "Maybe you and Edward can have one of those whoopsie pregnancies?"

I laugh. "In your dreams, Alice!"

00000000000000000000

Although Elizabeth and Ed Senior invited us to stay in their home during our trip to Chicago, Edward politely declined. He said his parents would smother us with attention if we were to take them up on the offer. We'd never get a moment to ourselves. Instead, we checked into a nice hotel a couple of miles away.

As the sky darkens, I dress up for the anniversary party. I'm standing in front of the bathroom mirror applying eye shadow when footsteps approach from behind.

"Holy fuck," Edward breathes.

I meet his unblinking gaze through the mirror's reflection. He's decked out in his black tux and looks hotter than Hell. I nervously pull down the skirt of my ivory, off the shoulder cocktail dress. Delicate beading is stitched along the short hemline. It shows way more skin than I'm accustomed, but Alice insisted I wear it tonight. She assured me I would look incredible, and for once I agreed. But judging by Edward's reaction, I'm not so sure anymore.

"Do, um, I look all right?" I ask him.

My question brings him back to life. He starts looking me up and down like I'm something to eat... which sounds delightful if I do say so myself. He steps directly behind me, his hot breath tickling the nape of my neck. "Let's stay here tonight."

"What about your parents' party?"

"I'll tell them I pulled a muscle and can't walk." He peppers light, teasing kisses across my bare shoulder. "I want to peel this dress off you with my teeth."

I won't lie. I swoon a little.

Emboldened by his words, I grab hold of his tux's lapel and attack his mouth. His tongue tastes of whiskey and peppermint. Not to be outdone, his hands explore my body, fondling everything in their path. But when I sense him playing with the dress's zipper, I know things are progressing too far.

Giving one last kiss to his lips, I step away and return to applying my makeup. He blinks his confusion.

"Why'd you stop?" he asks.

"We can't disappoint your parents, Edward. They've been looking forward to seeing us."

"Well, I was looking forward to stripping you out of that dress and throwing you on the bed."

"Ok, let's do it." I smirk at him. "... after the party."

His shoulders slump. "Minx," he grumbles under his breath.

I giggle and blow him a kiss. He really is fun to mess with sometimes.

I slip into a trench coat before we step outside. It's early in the season yet Chicago's famous bone-chilling temperature is here already. I'm shivering as we wait for our cab to park at the curb. Edward pulls me close, offering his warmth. I continue snuggling with him while we're in the backseat. It feels too good to stop. Meanwhile, he's busy playing with the engagement ring on my finger and being very quiet.

"You're thinking hard about something," I point out.

"Mmm-hmm. I was comparing my current life situation against a major literary character's. I was surprised to find that we're not much different."

"Oh? Who?"

"Do you really want to know?"

"Yes."

He gives a crooked smile and makes a show of kissing my ring finger. "Mmm. We swears to serve the master of the precious," he says with a gargling vibrato. "We will swear on the precious."

I groan at his much too sexy Gollum impression. "Good god, Edward. And you once had the nerve to call me a Tolkien nerd! You have me beat by a mile."

He chuckles and kisses my finger again. It makes me feel loved and worshipped. I also like that playful glint in his eyes...

On second thought, maybe I'll get him to do that Gollum impression on me once we're alone. That might be interesting when clothing is optional.

The cab stops abruptly outside of a large building. There's white columns, huge windows, and perfect landscaping surrounding the structure. I turn to Edward. "Where are we?"

"My parents' house."

"What?!" I sputter at the sight of such opulence. "I-it looks like a museum!"

He smiles. "My mother would be devastated to hear you say that. She prides herself on having the nicest house in the neighborhood."

"Well, yeah. It's great. Uh, beautiful, I mean." I take another glance at the house. "I knew you and your family were wealthy, but this... This is on a whole other level. Why didn't you tell me you grew up in a mansion?"

"Does it matter?" he says dryly.

"No..."

"Then stop concentrating on things that aren't important. I'm still the same person you knew before. None of this," he waves his hand toward the house, "represents who I am."

I nod. He might have grown up with wealth and privilege, but he prefers living a modest existence as an adult. He's the least pretentious person I know.

While Edward pays the fare, I step out of the cab and look around. The Masen House is buzzing with activity. Lights blaze from every room. Limos drop off guest after guest in fancy garb. Valets take the keys of BMWs and park them in a nearby lot.

And then there's me. Back home I drive a ten year old Toyota, and I had to have my sister pick out my dress just so I wouldn't look out of place here tonight.

I feel vastly inferior.

Edward offers his arm, not noticing my growing anxiety. He escorts me up the sidewalk and opens the front door without knocking. Upon our entrance into the foyer, I notice people are everywhere I look. Many sip from flutes of champagne while admiring the art displayed. The sounds of talking, laughter, and music drift from nearby rooms. It feels like we're in the lobby of a grand hotel. There's even a coat check. As we're handing off our things to the attendant, I hear a loud gasp.

"They're here!"

Elizabeth abandons the people she had been greeting and rushes over. Her auburn hair is swept up into a chic style. Her dress is elegant and sparkly. Ed Senior shows up on the scene seconds later, looking dapper with touches of gray to his hair.

Elizabeth takes both my hands in hers and spreads my arms far apart, gazing at me. "Oh my," she whispers. "Isn't Bella radiant tonight, Ed? She's positively glowing!" She speaks before her husband can respond. "Did you have a nice flight?"

"It was fine. Nothing out of the ordinary." I smile. "Happy anniversary."

She clutches the spot above her heart in a theatrical fashion. "Oh! And you actually remembered what this party is celebrating! Truly miraculous. A quarter of the people I've spoken with seem to think we're throwing an early Christmas soirée. I suppose they didn't bother giving the invitations a proper reading." Her face softening, she moves to Edward and kisses his cheek. "I'm glad you came. I've missed you so much."

"Missed you too, Ma."

She gives a little sigh and adjusts his black tie. "Look at you. So handsome..."

Ed Senior sends a wink in my direction. "And what do ya know - he's smiling too. I haven't seen one of those on his face since he hit puberty." He whispers conspiratorially. "Edward was one of those Gloomy Guses in high school. Wore all black and quoted depressing song lyrics whenever I asked how his day went. I wonder what's got him smiling now?"

She smacks his chest. "Stop teasing him, Ed. That was simply a phase. It lasted only a couple of months." Her expression warms. "Besides, you already know why he looks happy. Bella is responsible for that."

Edward plays it cool and scans the sea of faces surrounding us. "Is everyone here?"

Elizabeth's smile falters a moment. "N-no. Not everyone."

"Who's missing?"

When she doesn't answer, Ed Senior steps in. "One of the grandkids caught a cold from school and passed it along to Heidi. Peter called earlier to say they wouldn't be able to make it tonight."

"Oh. That's too bad." Edward's smirk greatly diminishes the sincerity of his words.

With the awkward subject out of the way, Elizabeth hooks an arm through mine. "Come along, Bella. There's several people who've been dying to meet you."

The next half hour consists of Elizabeth hyping me up in front of relatives and complete strangers. "Our Bella travels all over the world for a top magazine," she gushes. "She sees the most interesting things! What was that place you wrote about recently? The one with the cows?"

"It was the Omo Valley in Ethiopia," I reply. "Much of the Hamer people's culture revolves around the cattle they raise. For example, when a boy there reaches a certain age, he has to jump atop a line of cows and hop from back to back while the village cheers him on. If he makes it across four times without falling, he is declared a man."

Ed chuckles. "Talk about taking the bull by the horns."

I smile at him. "Yes, it does require a healthy dose of persistence and bravery."

A cousin on Elizabeth's side launches into a lively conversation with the Masens, including Edward. While they are distracted, a woman with enough jewels on her fingers to fund the budget of a small European country squints critically at me. "I heard you and Edward Junior got engaged recently. Is that true?"

"Yes, it is."

"And what did you say your name was?"

"Bella Swan."

"Swan... How strange. I don't believe I've heard of any Swans of note."

"I doubt you would. My father is the police chief of a small town in Washington state, and my mother is a school teacher. We're just your average family - nothing like the Masens."

"Oh." She makes a face and turns to a friend. "It's unfortunate Edward chose to marry so late in life. Slim pickings for him." The two of them titter like hens, as though I'm not standing right in front of them.

Elizabeth seems to materialize from thin air. "Oh, Charlotte, dear," she says with a sickly sweet smile. "You might want to stop laughing - it's giving you terrible lines. Your plastic surgeon must have failed to inject your forehead properly this time."

Charlotte goes wide-eyed. "Excuse me. I must go to the powder room."

"Yes, you do that." As soon as we are left to ourselves, Elizabeth sends me a knowing look. "Don't listen to a word Charlotte said. It's all sour grapes. She was in the same graduating class as Edward and he never once paid her any attention. I'm sure you can guess why. Her personality is the equivalent to that of a cold fish. The only reason I invited her to the party is because her mother and I are good friends."

"Does it bother you that I'm not from a... wealthier family?"

She laughs. "Do you know what line of work my father did when he was alive? He ran a dry cleaners! We were far from wealthy, Bella. He scrimped and saved just so my siblings and I could go off to the university of our choosing." She wraps an arm around me as we walk. "It would be hypocritical if I were to look down on you just because of your background. But even if I had been born into money, my opinion of you would be exactly the same. I don't care who your family is or what you do for a living. My little boy loves you, and to me, that's a good enough reason to accept you with open arms."

I smile at the term of endearment Elizabeth used for her son. Little boy. I'll have to tease him about that later.

She looks me dead in the eye. "I've been meaning to talk with you about something. Am I right in thinking that we can speak in confidence?"

"Yes."

Sadness creeps into her voice. "I suppose Edward told you about his history with Peter." When I confirm, she nods. "It isn't unusual for a family to be rocked by a scandal, but you never think it will happen to yours until it does. What Peter did to Edward was a great shock. Out of all the people in the world, for him to go after Heidi was... Well, I'll just say I didn't raise him to behave that way.

"To be perfectly honest, I wasn't surprised that Heidi broke poor Edward's heart. I was worried about her from the very beginning. My intuition said she was being disingenuous, that she didn't care as much about my boy as she claimed. But a gut feeling on my part proves nothing, of course, so I kept it to myself."

Elizabeth stands taller than before. "As horrible as it may sound, I'm glad things turned out the way they did. Peter and Heidi are happy together, and now Edward is happy with you. I doubt the same could have been said if he had married her." She lowers her voice further. "Heidi likes being spoiled and Peter encourages it. Edward would have grown tired of catering to her every whim. He needs a strong, independent woman - and that's what he got with you. Don't get me wrong. I'll always be grateful that Heidi gave me such sweet grandbabies, but I've never enjoyed her company. I like you much more than her." Elizabeth's eyes dart from right to left. "Don't tell anyone I said that. I try to keep negative opinions to myself."

"I understand. And, just so you know, I like you too."

She squeezes my shoulder before going on to introduce me to another set of relatives.

Later, I'm perusing the art-filled walls when Edward finds me again. "What are you doing all by yourself?" he wonders.

"I needed a break. Every other person keeps asking about how you and I got together. I've fielded enough questions to fill a book."

He nods. "Same with me."

"What did you tell them?"

"That you seduced me the second we were alone."

"Edward!"

"I'm kidding."

I roll my eyes. "You suck. Don't scare me like that."

The fine works of art on the wall come to an end. In their place are framed sets of photographs of various family members. I recognize one as being the wedding of Ed Senior and Elizabeth. They looked so much in love that day forty years ago. The second photo is of a young couple. The man in the picture vaguely resembles Edward except his hair is a dark blond. The woman posed next to him is a brunette with the air of a fashion model. That must be Peter and Heidi. I can see why Edward was attracted to her. She's very pretty in a look-at-me kind of way.

Ok, so maybe I'm just a teeny, tiny bit jealous.

My eyes wander to Edward, wondering if he still feels anything when he looks at her. He merely glances at their photo, scowls, and then purposely avoids looking at the happy couple's image.

Thankfully, the next photograph we come across lightens the mood.

"Oh, wow," I tease. "Braces and glasses. You were adorkable, Edward. How old were you here?"

He groans. "Thirteen."

"What happened to the glasses?"

"Lasik."

"Oh, I see. And how long did it take before you grew into those ears?"

"Very funny." He grabs my hand and tries leading me away. "Let's go dance."

I raise an eyebrow and throw on the brakes. "Do you actually want to dance, or are you just trying to keep me from seeing the rest of your embarrassing pictures?"

"I'd rather not answer the question."

I smile mischievously. "Aww, but I really want to see you in your awkward phase glory."

"I'll make a deal, then. You can see all my hideous photos as long as I can see yours."

My smile evaporates. Edward's embarrassing photo has nothing on mine. Adolescence was not kind to me. From ages nine to eleven, I was often mistaken for a boy due to the short hairstyle I wore. And middle school was even worse. Can you say acne? No way in hell would I let Edward see me during that unfortunate time.

"Um. We can dance if you want," I answer hastily.

He's smug as we head over to the next room. It's filled nearly to capacity with dozens of dancing couples. A small musical group with various instruments are doing a jazzy rendition of It Had to Be You. Edward finds a spot within the crowd and holds me close.

"How's your night been?" he asks.

"Good. Your family is very welcoming, and I've gotten to know your mom a lot better too." I smirk at him. "I've noticed she just loves talking about her sweet little boy Edward."

"Little?" He grabs my hips and presses our bodies together. "Does that feel little to you?"

Nope. He's definitely not little by any means.

"I don't know," I reply, playing dumb. "I need to do an intensive investigation before I can answer your question."

He gives a lopsided smile. "That can be arranged."

We're probably dancing closer than what's socially acceptable when someone taps his shoulder.

"Pardon me," the voice says, "but I'd like a dance with the second-most beautiful woman around."

Edward bristles at his father's statement. "Second? Who's the first?"

I giggle at how defensive he sounds. "He's talking about Elizabeth. Of course she would be the most beautiful to him." I step over to Ed Senior. "I'd love to dance. Thank you for asking."

Ed takes over Edward's spot and winks. "Don't wait up, son."

The glare Edward gives could cut glass.

Ed Senior whisks me away, doing an impressive dance move that results in applause from the crowd. An entire song goes by before he speaks again. At first I assume he wants to talk of serious things, much like his wife did earlier. Instead, he shares funny little stories from Edward's past. I learn of how five year old Edward set up a trap of cookies and string to (unsuccessfully) catch Santa Claus. Another time Edward dressed up as a hobbit and - while climbing Mount Doom (AKA the sofa in the family room) - he fell and landed on the coffee table, breaking it in half.

"Did Edward ever tell you about the Christmas incident from eight years ago?" Ed asks.

"No, sounds ominous. What happened?"

"Elizabeth begged him to visit for the holidays. He agreed because Peter and his family were going on vacation that year and wouldn't be attending. Being the thoughtful creature that she is, Elizabeth also invited that friend of his. What's his name again? Ah, yes. Emmett. So, Edward and his friend arrive. Keep in mind that we Masens throw one hell of a Christmas bash. Nearly everyone was there to enjoy the festivities. Have you met my sister Clara tonight? You have? Then you probably noticed she's hard of hearing. You gotta talk loud to get your point across. Well, no one informed Emmett. He meets Clara and tells her he's Edward's business partner. Clara hears the second part fine but not the first. She takes him under her wing and leads him to the front of the room. She quietens everyone down and introduces Emmett to the family as Edward's partner."

I fight back a smile. "I'm sure that caused some confusion."

Ed nods in amusement. "And it didn't help that this Emmett fellow thought it was funny. He referred to Edward as 'babe' the rest of the night."

I laugh until my sides hurt. "That's Emmett for you!"

"How is he, by the way? I was told his hip was injured badly after Edward's ship sank."

"He's doing much better now. He lives in Port Angeles at the moment with his girlfriend. Edward usually meets up with him once or twice a month. They travel together to check on how the resort is coming along."

Ed gives me a sly look. "About this resort... I hope once it's built you and Edward will still visit us from time to time."

"Absolutely. And you'll always be welcome to visit us too."

"Hmm. A free vacation. I might have to take you up on that." He wipes his brow. "Phew! Dancing is more work than I remembered."

"Are you all right?" I suddenly notice he's looking paler than usual.

"Yes, yes. Just need to sit down a spell."

Slightly worried, I help him over to a chair. Edward shows up within seconds. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing!" huffs Ed. "Since when is an old man needing to sit down considered a national emergency?"

I look to Edward. "He said he was a little tired. Can I get you something to drink, Ed?"

"No, I'm fine. But how about you get yourself something? You've been here well over an hour and haven't wet your whistle once."

Edward exchanges a meaningful glance with me. "Bring him a water too."

I nod before going in search of refreshments. Two rooms away I discover there's an actual bar set up. An open bar. My eyebrows lift, impressed by the luxury. Elizabeth and Ed sure know how to throw a party.

People nurse drinks while munching on hors d'oeuvres. When there's finally room enough to squeeze myself at the bar, I greet the bartender cordially. "Hi. Can I get a martini and one plain water, please?"

"Coming right up."

"A martini girl, eh?" croons a deep voice. "Too bad you don't want it dirty."

To my left is a man. He's leaning against the bar, his gaze aimed at my cleavage. He shares the same square jaw line and nose as the other Masen men I've met, but to me, he isn't quite as attractive as the one I live with. This has to be Peter. It's the slightly older version of the person I saw in the photograph hanging on the wall.

I'm filled with instant revulsion.

"What I want is no concern of yours," I reply.

He smirks. "Ooh, a feisty one. Nice."

Looking away, I tap my foot and wait impatiently for my order. I can feel Peter's laughing eyes on me.

"Are you having a good time tonight?" he asks.

"I was," I answer, staring straight ahead.

"But you're not now?"

"Bingo."

He chuckles. He seems to rejoice in making me uncomfortable.

"You're something else," he says. "It makes me even more curious about you."

"I don't see how. I'm actually very boring."

"I doubt that. I bet you're like a firecracker - hot and ready to explode with the proper motivation." He moistens his lip. "May I light the match?"

He's married and he's acting like this?

Eww.

"That does it." I spin around, clenching my fists. "I don't know who you think I am, but I can assure you-"

"Oh, I know exactly who you are. Bella Swan, writer for Voyage Magazine. Made international headlines after she and several others survived a ship sinking in the Pacific. By and by, they were rescued from a group of exotic islands, and she even got herself engaged to the captain of the ship. Nice story. But I must say, you're much more beautiful than the cameras made you out to be, Ms. Swan."

The fact that he's done research on my life pisses me off.

I stare daggers at him. "And Peter Masen is a bigger sleaze than I imagined."

"You know who I am?"

"I do. Where's the wife?"

"At home, sick. Nothing life threatening, of course. I played dutiful husband until she overheard me on the phone telling Dad how disappointed I was that I couldn't attend the party. She pushed me to come at the last minute. It's not every day that your parents celebrate a milestone anniversary." He gawks, undressing me with his eyes. "I'm glad she was selfless for once. I wouldn't have wanted to miss meeting you for the world."

Double eww.

"You came here specifically to meet me?" I challenge.

"More or less."

"Does Heidi know that?"

He takes a beat too long to answer. His next words are chosen carefully. "Heidi enjoys a privileged lifestyle, and with privilege comes some sacrifice. What she doesn't know won't hurt her."

So much for their "perfect couple" image. She's too busy playing with their money to realize her husband is a player.

I almost feel sorry for her.

Almost.

The bartender chooses this time to hand over my drink and Ed's water. I'm ready to make a run for it. Peter grabs me by the wrist, preventing my escape. Since my hands are full, I can't rip his slimy fingers off my skin.

"What do you think you're doing?" I snap. "Let go!"

He removes his hand. "Sorry. Forgive me."

"If you step out of my way, I might."

"I'd rather not. I'm not finished talking to you."

"What else is there to say?"

"Plenty. How about we cut out of here and go someplace more private?"

I cock my head, eyes narrowing in judgement. "When you were little, you got a thrill whenever you stole another kid's shiny new toy."

"How did you know?"

"Just a hunch. Is it a habit of yours to hit on all your brother's fiancées?"

He laughs, then shrugs. "What can I say? Edward has good taste in women."

"If that's how you feel, maybe you should go back to the one you already stole from him."

"Touché. Have you ever thought of going into law? I'd love sparring with you in the courtroom... and the bedroom."

"I can't think of anything I'd rather do less."

"Ouch. Your tongue lashes out again. Lucky for you, I don't back down easily."

"You're sick."

"And you're uptight. How about you let me loosen you up?"

I almost sprain my eyeballs when I roll them. "What did you think I was going to do? Fall into your arms just because you said a few shitty pick-up lines? Newsflash: You're nothing special. You don't have the power to take everything you see."

His gaze clouds with lust. "Interesting choice of words, but I think you'll find that you're wrong. I can take you in so many ways if you let me. You'll be sore for a week."

What an egomaniac. It's like he's unable to conceive the possibility that not every woman on the planet wants him.

I step closer, getting right in his face. "Listen up, Peter," I bark. "The fact that you chase after women your own brother is dating says a lot about you. You're a slime ball. Even if I was single I wouldn't touch you with a ten foot pole. Here's a suggestion: Since you're so very desperate to get laid tonight, you should probably just go fuck yourself."

To top off the insult, I pour my martini over his head.

Liquid drips down Peter's stunned face. He looks ridiculous with his hair all wet. Yet before I can feel any satisfaction for what I've done, a collective gasp greets my ears.

Every single person in the room is staring this way, whispering amongst themselves. I'm suddenly aware of how I've committed multiple faux pas.

- I wasn't careful to keep my tone down, so everyone heard me telling Peter off.

- I aired the family's dirty laundry in front of them.

- Edward's great aunt Ethel just heard me say fuck.

- It's probably considered impolite to physically attack someone with a cocktail.

So much for me making a good impression on the Masens.

Having dozens of eyes on me is nerve-wracking. I start backing away. Too bad there isn't a hole nearby I can crawl into. While Peter is asking the bartender for a towel to dry off with, I scurry from the room. I find Edward still with his father. Ed Senior is out of the chair and looking much better, thank goodness. I practically shove the glass of water at him and grab Edward by the hand.

"Excuse me," I say breathlessly. "I need to steal Edward for a sec. Be right back!"

I don't give anyone time to ask questions. I haul Edward away, leaving Ed Senior to gape after us. Once we reach a mostly empty hallway at the back of the house, Edward refuses to go an inch further.

"Bella, what is it? You're worrying me."

"I did something bad!"

"What?"

"I met your brother. He wanted sex."

Edward's gaze hardens to steel. He doesn't say a word, though. All he does is stare in quiet fury. I haven't seen him this angry since Mike sent his ship to the bottom of the Pacific. But there's something else too. It's in his eyes. A vulnerability he usually keeps hidden is now fully exposed.

"No one's ever tried so hard to get me to sleep with them," I continue, wringing my hands. "No matter what I said he kept going back to how good he could make me feel." I take a deep breath and blurt out the rest. "So I told him to go fuck himself and poured my drink on him. Do you think I could be charged with assault?"

Edward blinks in surprise. "You threw your drink at him?"

"Yes. In front of everyone! And I might have also made them aware that Peter is a cheating bastard. What are we gonna do?"

He lowers his gaze for a moment. His mouth twitches. One corner creeps up. Then the other. A glorious smile conquers his face.

"Oh, Bella. I love you."

Ok... that reaction was better than I expected. A tiny ball of hope blooms inside my chest.

"You're not mad?" I ask in disbelief.

"Fuck no! At least, not at you. Tell me, how did Peter look when you did it?"

"Um, he just stood there like he couldn't believe what happened. I got the impression he thought I would just go along with whatever he wanted. The drink to the face came as his wake up call."

Edward laughs, rubbing his jaw thoughtfully. "That's great. I wish I could have been there to see it for myself."

I relax, but only slightly. "Won't your mom and dad be upset? I exposed the family to more scandal."

"They know how Peter is. If he's doing wrong, he fucking deserves to take the heat." Edward's thumb brushes across my cheek. "No one's ever stood up to Peter quite like that before. Marry me, Bella."

The warmth of his words makes me smile. I look at him through my lashes. "I already told you I'd marry you, you idiot. We're engaged!"

"No, I mean right now."

"Huh?"

"I don't want to wait. I want to marry you now - as soon as we can."

"Are you serious? What about the wedding! We've planned so much. Even the venue's been booked."

He cocks an eyebrow. "The wedding your mother planned? The one where just the other day you begged her to reduce the number of bridesmaids from fifteen to three, and she refused? That wedding?"

"Yes," I answer in a tiny voice.

"Bella, you said you wanted something small and intimate. Between my parents' money and Renee's need to show off, the wedding is no longer in our control. I think we should take it back and do it our own way."

"And what would that consist of?"

His eyes twinkle. "Vegas."

"Vegas?" I repeat, dumbfounded.

"It's our best bet. It'll be easy too. I mean, just look at you. You're already wearing a white dress."

He's acting far too calm and collected about this. I'm beginning to suspect he's thought about eloping for longer than just tonight. Just the idea of doing something so spontaneous makes me hyperventilate a little.

"T-this is crazy. You want to get married the same day as your parents' anniversary?"

"Our plane wouldn't touch down in Vegas until almost dawn. That means we won't be married until tomorrow, so we'll be in the clear." His arms fit loosely around my waist. "Imagine it, Bella. No crazy wedding spectacle, no complaining relatives, and zero worries. It would be just the two of us, a witness, and the officiant. How does that sound?"

"...Good when you say it like that, but what about our parents? They're going to be disappointed."

"We'll let them throw a reception instead of a wedding. That ought to make them happy."

I frown a bit, still not totally convinced. "I don't know..."

He takes my face in his hands and stares into my soul. "Your mother wants you to wear her wedding dress, the one that fits like a potato sack and features puffy sleeves straight from the 1980s. Is that what you want?"

My mouth forms a thin line. I nod my head, never breaking eye contact.

"Let's go to Vegas."

He kisses me long and hard in celebration. I can barely stand on my own two feet by the time he ends it. He weaves our fingers together as we zigzag our way through the maze of party guests. We eventually locate Edward's parents locked in a swaying embrace.

He taps his father's back, interrupting their dance. "Bella and I are leaving. We wanted to say goodbye first."

"Already?" Elizabeth cries. "It's still early!"

"Sorry, Ma, but we have a plane to catch. Dad, may I borrow your car? We don't have time to wait for a cab. I'll text you later about where I left it at the airport."

Ed Senior, growing suspicious, glances from Edward to me and back. He slowly pulls out his keys and gives them over. "Sure, but what's the rush?"

"We're getting married." And with that, Edward leads us away.

Curious as to how his announcement was taken, I peek over my shoulder. His father can't stop laughing. Elizabeth is just plain confused.

We make it to the coat check. As the attendant in charge retrieves our things, a voice from behind stops us cold.

"Hello, Edward. Long time, no see."

Reluctantly, we turn around. Peter's tuxedo is splattered with wet spots. His hair is damp and stringy. He looks like shit. A spiteful sneer is directed at Edward.

"I see you managed to find yourself a bitch that isn't in heat - unlike your last one." His laugh is loud and mocking. "I don't know if I should congratulate you or feel sorry for you. Your nights must be awfully boring with a woman like her. Right, Edward?"

Everyone in the room just sort of freezes, floored by the taunting words from Peter's mouth.

The attendant shows up with our coats. Edward holds up a finger, silently asking for them to wait a moment. His expression is empty. Peter's is smug. The two brothers meet in the middle of the foyer and engage in a short stare down.

Peter raises his eyebrows. "Well? Got anything to say?"

Turns out that Edward does not. Without uttering a single sound, he rears back and clocks Peter in the face.

Stumbling a step, Peter tries stifling the blood leaking from his now crooked nose. "Fuck!" he yells through his fingers.

Edward ignores the wailing and helps me put on my coat. My mouth is open the entire time, even after he pulls me outside to the garage where his father's car awaits. I can't believe Edward did that. He took a swing at his brother just because Peter insulted me.

That was hot.

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Light from the afternoon sun streams into our hotel room. It seeps through my closed eyelids and forces them open. The last twenty-four hours have been action packed. Yesterday we started out in Seattle, landed in Chicago around noon, and hopped on an overnight flight to Las Vegas after midnight.

I never imagined we would have a quickie wedding. But now that it's over, I'm happy we did. The ceremony was simple and perfect. Additionally, the officiant was kind and completely normal (not an Elvis or Frank Sinatra impersonator like I feared he might be). We stood in front of a tasteful display of lilies and said our vows. When Edward spoke of how he would love and cherish me for all his days, it felt like the world consisted of just the two of us.

We made it official just after nine in the morning. By ten we were checked into our hotel suite. We put away our luggage, took off our clothes, and collapsed into bed. We had intended to celebrate our nuptials honeymoon-style, but exhaustion got to us before we could go too far.

I glance at the clock on the nightstand. 2:30 on the dot. I slide out of bed, careful to not wake Edward. He's on his stomach with his arms above his head, peacefully asleep. His back muscles are exposed and begging for me to run my fingers over them. I somehow find the strength to not disturb him.

Look at me. I'm being a considerate wife already.

The bedroom features a window which takes up the entire wall on one side. I walk quietly up to the glass, naked as the day I was born. There's no blinds or curtains to obstruct the view. The desert sun shines warm and inviting on the Vegas Strip. Casinos with bubbling fountains and larger than life attractions shout for attention. Traffic is almost bumper to bumper. Hundreds of tourists crowd the sidewalks and snap pictures. It's honestly a little chaotic. Still, something about the place makes you want to be a part of it. What must it feel like at night when the neon signs come on?

"You know," begins a gravelly voice behind me, "that window is only tinted. If you can see out, that means they can see in."

I shriek in horror. Immediately, I cover my breasts and cross my legs, hoping to God no one saw the goodies. Instead of being supportive in my time of humiliation, Edward chuckles.

"I'm kidding, Bella. There's privacy film covering the window."

"Erg! Edward!"

I leap on top of him and attack with balled fists. My blows must be pathetic because he only laughs harder.

"You asshole! You scared the crap out of me!"

He gives a lazy smile. "If I'm an asshole, what does that make you? Mrs. Asshole?"

"Ha. No. It's Mrs. Swan-Asshole. You forgot the hyphen."

"Mmm. Swan-Asshole does have a nice ring to it."

I twist my mouth to keep from smiling. "After that stunt, you better feel extremely lucky that you got me to marry you this morning. I'm not so sure if I would have agreed to it now."

He hums and wiggles his eyebrows. "Lucky indeed."

His playful mood rubs off on me and I laugh. Remembering the events of last night, I reach for his right hand. My fingers rub lightly over his busted knuckles. "Does it hurt?"

"No."

"Are you lying?"

"Umm. Maybe just a little."

I scrunch my face. "You didn't have to defend me like that."

"Yes the fuck I did. Peter's had it coming for years. He needed to learn that I'm not going to take his shit anymore - especially when it comes to you."

"He might go to the police and press charges," I whisper.

"And admit he got his ass handed to him by his younger brother? Never. His pride wouldn't let him." He smoothes down the hair around my face. "Let's not think about Peter or anybody else right now. I want to enjoy being with my new wife."

I let him pull me down for a kiss. Naturally, things don't end there. He reaches for his wallet. I stop him. We're married now. I'm on birth control. What do we need condoms for?

Sex is different without any barriers. Skin to skin, I feel closer than ever to him. We go nice and slow, then hard and fast. His mouth does sinful things, making me shudder. I scratch my nails down his back until he moans.

It's like that for the next two days. We don't leave our hotel at all. Thank God for room service or we might not have eaten. Our honeymoon may have been short but it was oh so sweet. We'll have to go back to Las Vegas again one day in the future. Maybe then we can make up for not doing any sightseeing.

We return to Seattle and resume our day to day life. I go to work and he pursues his dream of getting the resort up and running. Almost all of our friends and relatives sent congratulations on our marriage as soon as we made the announcement. My mom took longer to win over. She was pissed her elaborate wedding plans were all for naught. Dad reminded her that they eloped too, so she shouldn't act like it's the end of the world. She didn't speak to him for the rest of the day. Her attitude improved during the planning of our marriage celebration party. The food and decorations she chose were a hit.

I think that's the night she finally forgave us.

On a side note, word inevitably reached Heidi about what went down at the Masen anniversary party. She learned of how Peter tried to seduce his new sister-in-law (me) and then received a beating from Edward. He had reportedly lied and told her the broken nose came from a nasty fall down some stairs. Upon hearing the truth, she threw out most of his personal belongings and changed the locks to their house. He claimed he was innocent of what the gossipers were spreading. She didn't buy it and now only communicates with him through a lawyer. There is no prenup, so it looks like they'll be fighting for months to come on how to split all of their worldly goods.

The Golden Couple of Chicago are no more.

I felt guilty at first for being involved in the destruction of a marriage. Then I looked at Edward and remembered the tremendous hurt they had once caused him.

Karma can kick their ass as far as I'm concerned.

Weeks after Edward and I were married, I found myself hunched over a public toilet in the capitol city of Nepal. The soup I had for lunch didn't taste right. Stupid me was hungry and ate it anyway. On the flight back home, I had to flee to the restroom many times - much to the other passengers' annoyance. When my symptoms continued even after the plane landed in Seattle, I made an appointment with my doctor.

The diagnosis wasn't what I had expected.

Trapped in a state of panic, I walk into our apartment and slam the door. Tears drip down my chin like a faucet. Edward hears the commotion and meets me at the entryway.

"Bella! What's wrong?"

I sniff. "Remember how I've been sick these last couple of days?"

"Yes," he drags out.

"It wasn't food poisoning or the flu." Fresh tears pour down my face. "I'm pregnant."

"You're... what?"

"My damn IUD came out and I didn't know! The doctor estimates the date of conception to have been seven weeks ago. It's a honeymoon baby." I gulp down a cry. "I'm so sorry."

His brow creases. "What's there to apologize for?"

"I convinced you not to use the condoms anymore. We're in this mess all because of me." A memory hits me out of nowhere. I gasp. "I take that back. It's Alice's fault! She wanted us to have a 'whoopsie' pregnancy. I bet she put a voodoo hex on my birth control!"

"Bella," he says sternly. "I thought you wanted a baby."

"I do! More than anything, but we were supposed to wait until the time was right."

"Why can't the time be right now?"

His response sends me sputtering. "A-are you serious? What about our jobs!"

"Emmett can supervise construction when I'm not available. And as far as I'm concerned, you can keep working for as long as you want. I'll stay at home, and we'll hire nannies if we have to. Just because you have a baby doesn't mean your work life has to end."

I take a staggered breath in an attempt at calming down. "Are you really ok with this?"

"Better than ok." He grasps my hand in his and walks me over to him. "I'm more to blame for getting you pregnant than you are." He smirks. "There's no defense against my super sperm."

I laugh through my leftover tears. "I can't believe you just said that."

"It's the truth." He rubs my side with a gentle touch. "Feeling better now?"

I give a little nod. He envelopes me in a soft, warm hug. It banishes the remainder of my worries. We've got a lot of planning ahead to do. I don't mind. Because in the end, we can get through anything together. Ship sinkings, dangerous island hopping, animal attacks. A baby is no problem compared to what we've dealt with before.

Things are really looking up.

"Bella?"

"Hmm?"

"If it's a boy, can we name him Frodo?"

My glare is scalding. He grins and kisses my annoyance away.

Yeah. Life can't get any better than this.

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A/N-

This story was nominated in Twilight Fanfiction Recs for the month of September 2022. There were twenty-something entries. I was hoping for ninth or tenth place. This story got third. How? Beats me! I guess there are more Captain Masen lovers out there than I thought. So, to those of you who took the time to vote for this story, I give my heartfelt thanks. You rock!

There *might* be one more outtake coming. It's in its infancy stage, so it won't be ready anytime soon. Until then, I'll be focusing on a new WIP. Here's the summary:

He's hot. He's sweet. He can craft an arrowhead quicker than you can say paleolithic. A mistake sends Bella thousands of years into the past. After falling through time, will she fall head over heels as well? AH.

I'll probably start posting in the next few weeks. Hope to see you there!

And, as always, thanks for reading. :-)