So, this short story is dedicated to Carey Anne and the ladies who were in on my Zoom call, Clo, Aileen, Emma, Consuelo, Alyscia, Trina, Brier Lynn and Krida. It will be a drabblish story, with shorter chapters. Shorter chapters mean quicker updates! :-)
This is not mine. I don't own Twilight, but I wish I did. Sigh …
Are you ready for the epilogue? I cannot believe that this will wrap up this story. No sequels are planned, and I've got my next story in the cue. Now, I'm very grateful for everyone who's taken the time to read and review my story. I'm also eternally grateful for the ladies on my Zoom call for Carey Anne a year ago who inspired me to write this story.
Without further ado …
Chapter Twenty-One
Epilogue
March 30th, 2021
San Diego, California
Sitting in their van, Bella and Edward were working on their next YouTube video. It was a compilation of their time in San Diego, including some surfing, kayaking La Jolla, hitting up some of the best restaurants and spending time at the San Diego Zoo. With each video, their audience grew. They hit the mother lode when it came to the YouTube algorithm. Their channel hit 250,000 subscribers the day their first video for their van travels hit the internet. There were so many congratulations for their engagement and well-wishes for the beginning of their journey.
"I really like the freedom of traveling in this van. We're working on a beach, watching the sunset," Edward said, smiling at his fiancée.
"I was hesitant to take this leap," Bella murmured honestly, pulling her legs up.
Edward looked at her, arching a brow. This was the first she'd mentioned it, but kind of understood why she would be. "How so?"
"Part of it was my fears," she shrugged. "I was waiting for something to muck things up. Self-fulfilling prophecy or some shit."
"And the other part?"
"I was waiting for you to throw me aside or lose you like everyone else in my life," she sighed. "Don't get me wrong, I'm glad I'm here with you. It's everything I ever dreamed of and more. I have a partner who adores me. You've given me everything I ever wanted – a family."
He put his computer to the side and pulled Bella into his lap. "I'd never throw you aside, Glitter. Never. You're my soul mate. The yin to my yang," he smirked. She snickered, trailing her fingers through the soft curls at the nape of his neck. "I will always be with you, on your side, Bella. You're my best friend and so much more. I was content before I met you, but now? I'm eager to face the next day with you, love."
"I love you, Edward. So much," she whispered, kissing his lips. They lost themselves in their embrace for a few moments until Bella's cell phone rang. It was Miss Alice's ring tone. "Nooooooo!"
"You look forward to these phone calls, baby," Edward snickered. "Tell Miss Alice that I say hi. I'm going to try and get some editing done. I also want to get our next episode scheduled on YouTube."
"Okay," she grinned, climbing off his lap, and swiping her phone. "Can you also make dinner? There's enough for a stir fry in the fridge."
"Will do," he said, waving as she walked out to the beach with a blanket to take the call from Miss Alice.
Spreading the blanket on the cool sand, Bella plopped down and answered her cell. "Hi, Miss Alice," Bella sang. "How's the condo?"
"Your plants are still green," Miss Alice snickered. "How are things on the road? Have you given Edward road head yet?"
"It's a little hard when there's a gear shift in the way," Bella deadpanned. Not that she didn't try. When they hit a bump, the gear shift smacked her in the jaw, and she had to hide the bruise with makeup. "So, what's up?"
"I was wondering if you got any of the emails that Esme sent you with wedding dresses?" she asked. "There was this beautiful ball gown with exquisite beading …"
"I saw the email, but I haven't opened it yet. Edward and I were working today," Bella explained.
"In a hotel room or your van?"
"We're on a public beach, overlooking the Pacific Ocean," Bella grinned. "Much better than a hotel room. Edward's making stir fry for dinner. We'll probably enjoy dinner and then make love under the stars."
"When the van is a-rockin', don't come a-knockin'," Miss Alice teased.
"Damn straight," Bella agreed. "How's Emmett? Tessa?"
"Emmett is doing well and adjusting to being a new dad," Miss Alice explained. "Rose is dropping her off more and more and she's taking longer to pick up her daughter. Suffice it to say, Emmett is trying to get full custody of his child, removing Rose from her life."
"Good. She's a bitch and she deserves all the bad juju," Bella snorted indelicately. "She only wanted money from Emmett. She never had any intention of telling Emmett about Tessa."
"I met her once when she dropped off Tessa at Emmett's condo," Miss Alice scoffed. "She's a piece of work. She'd probably get along swimmingly with JR. They're cut from the same cloth."
"I tried to give her the benefit of the doubt, but when I saw her on Valentine's Day, I knew that she wasn't worth anything," Bella grumbled. "She was an opportunistic bitch, trying to finagle the easy way out. I hope that Emmett gets full custody of Tessa. He's got the support of all of us. Who does Rose have?"
"Not her family," Miss Alice snickered. "When they found out about her plan to abort the baby, her parents essentially cut her off. She lived with them during quarantine, but it was a tense situation. At least, that's what Emmett told me. It's why Rose moved back to Seattle with a nanny. It's a sticky situation."
"Emmett deserves better," Bella said. "He deserves happiness, love."
"I agree," Miss Alice breathed. "So, let's talk wedding."
For an hour, until Bella's phone started to get too hot, they discussed some ideas for the wedding. However, the more they spoke, the more Bella wanted something small. Something for just the two of them. They could have a big wedding for their friends and family, but she wanted to have a moment, for the two of them.
Walking back to the van, Edward was putting finishing touches on dinner. He grinned crookedly at her as she slid her arms around his waist. She snuggled against him, inhaling his fresh scent, and relishing in his strength. "I love you, Sparkle."
"I love you, too," he murmured, brushing his lips over hers. "What's up?"
"I think we should elope," she said. "Something for you and me."
"What about our families?" he asked.
"We still have a party and wedding for them," Bella explained, "But, we have the ceremony for us. I'm thinking we get married on top of a mountain overlooking Lake Tahoe. We're going to driving up through that area on our way to Nevada and Idaho. It'll give us two weeks to plan the ceremony. We can have the party when things are a little more settled."
"Things … as in COVID?" Edward asked.
"Yeah. It's still a thing and with your mom's medical issues …" Bella answered. "She just got her first shot. It'll be at least six weeks before she'll be completely covered by the vaccine."
"Okay. I understand where you're coming from," Edward nodded, kissing the crown of her head. "I think it's a good idea, just as long we have another ceremony when we have the party with our family."
"Done," Bella grinned, kissing his lips. "Now, this meal smells delicious."
xx DD xx
April 10th, 2021
Lake Tahoe, California
Checking into the Airbnb, Edward showered and shaved, putting on a navy-blue suit. Bella was at a nearby salon getting ready for their wedding. A half hour before sunset, they'd meet a justice of the peace on the shores of Lake Tahoe. They'd exchange vows, rings and kisses before the sun dipped below the horizon.
Setting up the camera, Edward sat on the couch in the Airbnb. After pressing record button, he smiled. "Today, I'm getting married to the woman I love more than my own life. Isabella Marie Swan is the person who gave me more. I want everything with her … a future, a family, a forever. For now, I'm excited to start the adventure of marriage with my best friend, my lover, and my confidante. Now, by the time you see this video, it'll be months after this beautiful night. We're having this moment for us and at the end of the summer, when we're back in Seattle, we'll have our actual wedding and reception."
He took a sip of his water, picking up the camera and he panned the camera out the window, showing the lake in the distance and the snow-tipped Cascade Mountains. "This is gorgeous and perfect for me and Bella. It's the best way for us to celebrate our love. I can't wait until I get to say 'I do' to Bella. Only a few more hours … I can't wait."
In a salon in downtown Tahoe, Bella's hair was curled, and makeup expertly applied. While she was getting beautified, she also filmed her thoughts about getting married. She was just as excited as Edward, but there was a sadness in her heart that she couldn't explain.
Well, she could, but she was terrified to share the reasoning behind her sadness.
When they got married for their friends and family at the end of the summer, she wouldn't have anyone at the ceremony, except Miss Alice. Her father was dead and the relationship with her mother was nonexistent. She had friends, but it wasn't the same.
"Ms. Swan, it's almost time," said the makeup artist. "Your dress is hanging in the locker room. A limo will pick you up in fifteen minutes."
"A limo?" Bella asked.
"A gift from your fiancé," the makeup artist smirked.
Bella got up and set up the camera in the locker room. With the makeup artist's help, she got dressed in her wedding dress. It was a beautiful lace gown that was cut close to Bella's body. She'd bought it off the rack. It was made for her, a perfect combination of elegance, boho chic and ethereal beauty. The final touch was an exquisite bouquet with roses, succulents, and wildflowers. One of the hair stylists took several photos of Bella before she scrambled into the waiting limo.
Edward was waiting for Bella at the parking lot of the location of their ceremony. His heart stammered against his ribs when the white limo came into view. The driver got out and helped Bella out of the backseat. She looked like an ethereal goddess, wearing a beautiful white gown, and holding an exquisite bouquet. The driver placed Bella's hand into Edward's, and she looked up at him, brown eyes brimmed with tears.
"Bella, what is it?" he asked.
"It's nothing," she whispered. "I'm just happy to be married to you, Edward."
Edward took her face into his hands and gently guided her gaze to his. "Talk to me, Glitter."
"I am happy to be married to you, but … when we have the ceremony for our families, I won't have my father to walk me down the aisle. The only person who will be on my side of the wedding is Miss Alice," she whispered as she fought a losing battle of tears slipping down her cheeks. Edward leaned forward, kissing her tears away. "I'm sorry."
"Don't apologize, my Bella. You are so loved. I know my dad would love to walk you down the aisle and it's not a competition at who can have the most people at our wedding," Edward explained. "We're all family, love."
Bella looked up at him, seeing nothing but sincerity and adoration in his eyes. "You're right," she breathed. "We're celebrating our wedding today, right now. In a couple of months, it'll … I just want to be your wife."
Slipping her hand into the crook of his arm, he grinned crookedly. "I want to be your husband. Let's get hitched."
"You're a born romantic," Bella snickered, walking the short distance to an outcropping of rocks overlooking the Cascade Mountains. A justice of peace was waiting for them, wearing a warm smile, along with a photographer and a witness. As Bella and Edward exchanged vows, rings, and promises of forever, the photographer took a ton of pictures. Edward had set up two cameras to capture their sunset ceremony.
When Edward slid on Bella's diamond eternity band onto her finger, his heart jumped, and he felt complete. Even more so when his platinum and meteorite stone band was pressed onto his finger. Finally … we're legally bound together … forever.
"By the power vested in me by the State of California, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Mr. Cullen, you may kiss your bride," the justice of the peace proclaimed.
"Mrs. Cullen," Edward purred, taking Bella's face in his hands. He pressed his lips to hers as the sun dipped below the horizon. "I love you, wife."
"I love you, too, husband," Bella mumbled against his mouth.
Their kisses deepened until the justice of the peace cleared his throat. They broke apart. They took some more pictures and signed their marriage license before heading back to the limo, which was waiting for them to drive them back to the Airbnb with their camera equipment in tow. Paying the driver, Edward swept Bella into his arms. He carried her over the threshold. Inside, the home was covered in candles and on the dining room table, there was a small wedding cake along with a romantic dinner.
"I plan on making love to my wife all night long," Edward purred as he pulled her into his lap. "After dinner and cake. I was too nervous to eat."
"Me, too," she murmured, pouring them both a glass of champagne. "To a long and amazing life, Sparkle."
"To the journey, Mrs. Cullen," he replied clinking his glass with hers. He kissed her, squeezing her close to his body.
They spent three days at the Airbnb, making love and relishing in their new marriage. It was also amazing to sleep in a bed that they didn't have to set up on a nightly basis. It was the one downfall of their van, was the lack of permanent bed. After their three day 'honeymoon', Edward and Bella went to a local bridal shop to have their wedding attire cleaned and boxed up to be sent to the condo. Paying for the cleaning, they verified their address before getting into their van and driving to Idaho for their next adventure.
xx DD xx
August 11th, 2021
Seattle, Washington
"Oh my God, I'm so tired," Edward groaned as he parked the van in the garage at their condo. "Whose brilliant idea was it to push through and not stop to get back to Seattle?"
"Uh, that was yours, hubby," Bella snickered, picking up her backpack and camera bag. "You didn't want to sleep on the van bed of discomfort."
"Damn straight. I love the van, but we need something to make it more comfortable," Edward snickered, scrubbing his face. "What time are we meeting my parents?"
"Thankfully, late afternoon," Bella answered, hopping out of the van. "We can sleep in and do laundry."
"And make love, christening our home," Edward purred, sliding his arms around Bella's body. "Mrs. Cullen …"
"Come on, babe," Bella grinned, kissing his lips. "Grab the dirty clothes. We've got three weeks at home to get married … again and do some heavy duty editing."
"In between making love," Edward teased.
"You are delirious from exhaustion. Come on, perv. Sleep is necessary before we can make love. Oooh, and a shower. The five-minute bird baths are not cutting it," Bella snickered, tugging on Edward's hand. He closed the van door and armed the alarm. They rode up the elevator and stumbled down the hallway to the condo. Unlocking the door, their stuff was dropped on the couch, and they went directly to their bedroom. Stripping off their clothes, Edward and Bella fell into bed completely naked. Within a few moments, both were asleep.
The next morning, Edward woke up and he grinned as he saw his wife curled against him. He moved her mess of curls over her shoulder and kissed her warm skin. His fingers glided along her creamy flesh, cupping her ass. Bella hummed, moving closer to Edward. "Wake up, baby," he whispered. "I need you."
"You always need me," she mumbled sleepily, looking over her shoulder at her horny and insatiable husband.
He captured her lips, moving her so she was on her side. Draping her leg over his, his fingers slid between her thighs to find her already wet and ready for him. "Were you dreaming of me?"
"Dreaming of your cock inside me," she answered, reaching between their bodies, and stroking his length. Edward growled against her lips, bucking his hips. With a whimper, Bella placed him at her entrance. He slid inside of her warmth, groaning with desire. "Fuck, I'll never get tired of feeling you inside me, Edward."
"I'll never get tired of being inside you," Edward rasped, reaching around her body, and circling his finger over her clit while his other hand palmed her breast. He pumped into her, stretching, and filling every inch of her body. Bella moved with him, moaning at how full she felt with him making love to her. "Fuck, Bella. I can feel you squeezing me so tightly."
"It's been a while since we've had the freedom to let loose," Bella smirked. "No fears of random schmoes watching the van creak as we get our freak on."
"I thought you were an exhibitionist," Edward teased, rolling his hips.
"I am, but not while there are rug rats staring at the van while we had our morning … The shocks got a workout, Edward," she blushed. "Thank goodness all the shades were up, but still." She groaned as he changed the angle where he was thrusting. "Oh, fuck. Right there, baby."
"I'm close, Bella," Edward growled, squeezing her hip as he rolled onto his back. Bella barely adjusted when he began thrusting into her with abandon. She moaned loudly, rubbing her clit while he claimed her, spilling inside his wife. They panted heavily as their skin cooled and bodies calmed. "It gets better every time, Glitter."
"Yeah," she murmured, moving to kiss his jaw. "Want to continue in the shower?"
"I love the way you think, wife," Edward said, scooping Bella up in his arms.
After a long, teasing, and sexy shower, they both were clean and completely sated. Bella kicked Edward out of the bathroom to finish getting ready for lunch with Esme and Carlisle to discuss final plans for their wedding ceremony. Well, the ceremony for their families … they did not know about their secret elopement. Once dressed, Bella slipped her wedding band onto her right hand, as did Edward. They got into Edward's Volvo and drove to his parents' home.
At the house, they enjoyed a home-cooked meal and shared stories of the first leg of their journey across the continental United States. Bella showed them photos they'd posted on the blog and Instagram page while Edward griped about the bed in the van. After lunch, Bella and Esme went off to pick up Miss Alice to finalize plans on Alki Beach for their wedding, make final payments for flowers and other vendors. They also met up with a former co-worker of Bella's, Angela. She was going to be Bella's maid of honor at the ceremony. Angela was Bella's closest friend besides Miss Alice. They'd been hired at the same time at the publishing company, but Angela decided to go another route with the pandemic hit, going back to school to become a counselor. She was nearly done with her master's degree and was working for an online counseling group.
Edward met up with Emmett, Tessa, and Carlisle to pick up their suits for the ceremony. Edward's suit was already to go, hanging in the closet, but his best friend and father needed to get their attire. As Emmett stood on the podium while the tailor was making final adjustments, Edward held Tessa. "I'm surprised you have the little one," Edward said, bouncing his adoptive niece.
"Rose is trying to get me to pay more in child support, but the judge is not budging since we have joint custody. She's not destined to be a mother. I have Tessa more than Rose. I love her so much and I don't want Rose to try and paint me in a negative light," Emmett growled, blinking at the sweet little girl in Edward's arms. "I'm filing for primary custody, possibly asking to have Rose's parental rights terminated. Cut off the dead weight, you know?"
"I'm sorry," Carlisle murmured. "Rose seemed like an amazing woman, and she made you happy."
"Even if she was a nasty harpy," Edward grumbled. "Emmett told you about what she wanted to do …"
Carlisle reached over, running his finger over Tessa's cheek. She giggled, reaching for Carlisle's finger, and gnawing on it. Edward kissed Tessa's head. "You know we'll help you, Emmett. Just like your parents will, too."
"Thanks, Carlisle," Emmett sighed. "I appreciate it. I love my daughter. I love her more than anything on this planet, but I hate the woman who gave birth to her."
"You're not alone," Edward snorted humorlessly. He picked up his phone when it vibrated. "We also need to pick up Tessa's flower girl dress. It's at some high-end boutique nearby."
"I've got the ticket," Emmett said. "It's in my wallet in the dressing room. Am I done?"
"You're good, Mr. McCarty," the tailor smiled. "Your suits will be ready tomorrow."
"Thank you," Edward said.
Emmett darted back into the dressing room, changing back into his street clothes. They left the tailor's and walked to the boutique to pick up Tessa's dress. After picking it up, they went out to eat before separating. Emmett had to get Tessa home for a nap. With hugs and promises of getting together once things calmed down after the wedding, Emmett went home while Edward drove his father back to the house. Edward picked up Bella and Miss Alice so they could have dinner with her at Miss Alice's condo.
The following day, they had the rehearsal at Alki Beach with the pastor from Carlisle and Esme's church. Bella and Edward smiled secretively as they went through the motions of the wedding, knowing that they were already legally bound as husband and wife. This ceremony was for their friends and family, but they loved being bound to each other.
However, Angela and Emmett were smiling at each other. Angela was blushing as she held onto Emmett's arm while the walked down the aisle. Bella blinked up to Edward. "I think Angela and Emmett are making googly eyes at each other. What do you think about that?"
"I think he needs someone to love him unconditionally," Edward murmured. "I don't know Angela very well, but she seems like a perfect person for him to help him heal from Rosalie's betrayal."
"Yeah," Bella smiled.
They had their rehearsal dinner at an outdoor café, wanting to make sure that everyone was safe. Almost everyone at the wedding had been vaccinated, save for Tessa and a handful of Bella's coworkers who were allergic to shot. Her old boss had his first dose, and he blew up like a balloon. He was driven to Harbor View Emergency Room and was admitted for his reaction.
That night, Edward and Bella were separated. Edward pouted as his 'boys' brought him back to his condo for an impromptu bachelor party. Bella spent the night with Carlisle and Esme, along with Angela and Miss Alice.
August 13th, 2021
The morning began early. Bella got ready for the wedding at Carlisle and Esme's. Their backyard was being transformed into their reception hall with tents, flowers, and a private catering company. Miss Alice paid for everything for the wedding while Esme and Carlisle provided the location of the wedding.
As Bella's hair was being curled, Angela sat down next to her friend. "Tell me about Emmett. He's so …" Angela whispered. "There's got to be a story. He seems so sweet and kind, but haunted."
"His last girlfriend really raked him over the coals," Bella explained. "She got pregnant and said that she didn't want the baby. Long story short, she wanted an abortion, but all procedures that were not life-threatening were canceled. She couldn't get the abortion and she gave birth to Tessa."
"She's so adorable and Emmett is an amazing dad," Angela whispered. "And Tessa? She's the sweetest thing."
"Very unlike the mother," Bella deadpanned as her eyes drifted shut while the makeup artist applied her eyeshadow. "I met Rosalie Hale once and she was a bitch. She told me she was pregnant that night, but it was clear that Rose was a self-absorbed piece of shit. When we got back to the states, Rose approached me and Edward on Valentine's Day, telling us about Tessa. She wanted money from Emmett."
"Bitch," Angela spat. "She's not in the picture, right?"
"Only in the picture in that she's Tessa's incubator, but Emmett is trying to …" Bella shrugged. "He's been hurt, Ang."
"I get being hurt," Angela frowned. "My ex-boyfriend wanted me to be barefoot and pregnant, with no prospects. Ben had very traditional values when it came to women. I'm anything but traditional."
"You were a slut," Bella snickered.
"I was a slut after being stuck with Missionary Ben for three years," Angela smirked. "I wanted to experience life. I wanted to experience passion. But, I'm ready to find someone who will love me while giving me that passion."
"And you think that a single father can do that?" Bella asked.
"I want to try," Angela shrugged. "We get along. He's funny and those muscles? Damn. We've exchanged numbers and he seems interested. I just wanted some more details."
"Be gentle with him, Ang. He's a good guy who had a shit hand of cards dealt to him," Bella said, reaching over to take Angela's hand.
"I will, Bells. He's a good guy and he deserves a good girl," Angela grinned. "I'm going to get dressed. The photographer's here and that means it's almost time to head to the beach." With a hug, Angela breezed out of the room as the makeup artist finished up Bella's face.
Miss Alice walked inside, wearing a pretty navy-blue dress. She was holding a box and wearing a bright smile. "You look gorgeous, Bella."
"In my robe," Bella quipped. "I need to put on my dress." Blinking over to the same gown she wore the night she got married the first time.
"You think I don't know, Mrs. Cullen," Miss Alice quipped.
"W-W-What?" Bella whispered.
"Bella, I know that you didn't want to feel like you had nobody and that you got married before today," Miss Alice explained, sitting down.
"How did you find out?" Bella asked.
"Edward told me. He wanted my advice about … well, he wanted to help you come to grips that you weren't alone in the world anymore," Miss Alice answered. "You're not, daughter of my heart. I also understand why you wanted to get married with just Edward and a justice of the peace. He sent me a photo from your private ceremony. You both looked so beautiful. So happy."
"You're not mad?" Bella asked.
"No, I'm not mad because I still get to see you get married," Miss Alice replied. "Now, you didn't have this on that day. It's a gift from me to you."
Bella walked over to Miss Alice and sat down to her, taking the box. "You didn't have to, Miss Alice. You being here is enough," Bella murmured.
"I know, but I wanted to," she breathed, kissing Bella's cheek.
Opening the box, Bella gasped when she saw a gorgeous sapphire necklace with a matching set of earrings. They matched the ring on Bella's right hand. "Miss Alice …"
"Hush," she chided, plucking the necklace from the box, and putting it around Bella's neck. "I love you, Bella. Both you and Edward are the family I would have chosen. Be happy. Give me grandchildren."
"You have grandchildren," Bella snickered, hugging her adoptive mother.
"Not from you," she murmured, running her fingers through Bella's curls. "Now, let's get you ready to get remarried to the man of your dreams."
After Miss Alice helped Bella into her wedding gown, they into the living room where the photographer took a ton of photos. They eventually got into the waiting limo and drove to Alki Beach, where an arbor made out of beach wood and white, blue, and burgundy flowers stood on the sand. Carlisle stood next to Bella, giving her a warm smile. "You've made my son so happy. Thank you."
"Thank you for walking me down the aisle," Bella whispered, gripping his arm. "I wish my dad could have met Edward. He would have loved him."
"Your father sent Edward to you, sweetheart," Carlisle murmured, kissing her cheek. "He knows."
Where their private ceremony was for them, this ceremony was for their family. Edward and Bella exchanged vows and promises of forever as they slid their rings back onto their fingers. They kissed deeply as Edward dipped Bella. She laughed against his lips, gripping his shoulders until he righted them. Taking the bouquet from Angela, they walked down the aisle as a string quartet played.
Photos were taken and they got into the limo, driving to Carlisle and Esme's for the reception. Dinner was served and the cake was cut, shared between the couple before they had their first dance. After that, the dance floor opened up and Bella grinned as Emmett danced with Angela with a genuine smile on his face.
"They're going out," Edward whispered. "Well, planning on it. We're watching Tessa next Friday while they go out for dinner."
"He's not even asking Rose?" Bella asked, arching a brow.
"She sent over paperwork to his condo on Thursday. She's relinquishing her rights and moving away," Edward sighed. "Emmett was pissed, but he's happy to be rid of her. We talked about that last night at my 'bachelor' party. He'll meet with his attorney on Monday to finalize everything."
"Good riddance," Bella huffed. "I tried to be nice to her that night, but seeing her on Valentine's Day? She was bad news. I don't want to talk about her. It's our wedding day."
"It is our wedding day," Edward quipped, nipping at her lips. "I love you, Mrs. Cullen. More than words can describe. I love you so much, I married you twice. I'll always choose you, Glitter."
"Me, too, Sparkle," Bella purred, idly playing with his hair. "I love you."
The reception was fun, with dancing and laughter. Angela caught the bouquet and Emmett caught the garter, spinning Angela into his arms and planting a solid kiss onto her lips. Angela was shocked, but returned the kiss eagerly. At the end of the night, Edward and Bella got into the limo that drove them to an exquisite hotel, where they spent two nights to celebrate their second wedding.
Let's just say that every flat surface was christened … and then some. Plus, they also filmed their time in the hotel. Their footage was for public viewing, along with some footage that went on their 'secret' hard drive.
A week after their second wedding, Emmett dropped off Tessa, and he went on his date with Angela. There was a definite love connection. Emmett's smile was wide, and he had stars in his eyes when he picked up his daughter. Even though he was upset that Rosalie threw away their child, Emmett was determined to not let her win. He was moving on. He was providing a wonderful life for Tessa. He was going to be happy, and Angela Weber was the key to that happiness.
Before they left on the second leg of their trip across the country, the four them went out on a double date while Teresa and Paul, Emmett's parents, watched their granddaughter. It was the double date that they should have had two years ago, filled with laughter and teasing. They stayed out way too late and had too much to drink. Bella, who was the least drunk, managed to get separate Ubers for both couples. Once in the Uber, Angela kissed Emmett deeply and it was clear that the driver was going to get a show.
"I think Angela has the right idea, Mrs. Cullen," Edward purred, nipping at Bella's ear. "I want to go home and make love to my wife."
The Uber stopped and Bella tugged on his hand. She gave the driver the address, begging him to step on it.
xx DD xx
December 31st, 2021
New York City, New York
Overlooking Times Square, Bella sipped some water. She wanted to be down on the street with the revelers, but Edward was sick with the flu. Bella was paranoid that he'd caught COVID, but a rapid PCR test came back negative.
"Glitter," Edward croaked, sounding miserable. "Come here."
"You should not be talking, Sparkle," Bella chided, walking to the king-sized bed. "Drink your tea."
"I'm sorry for ruining our New Year's Eve, but check this out," Edward said, pushing his laptop into Bella's hands.
"We've been burning the candle at both ends, Edward," Bella said. "Your illness is your body's way of telling us to relax. A week in the Big Apple is perfect. We have all the time in the world … holy shit! We hit a million subscribers."
"We hit a million subscribers with our wedding video," Edward said, pulling up the metrics on a separate tab.
They'd waited to post their combined wedding video, with footage from their private ceremony in Lake Tahoe, spliced together with images from their wedding in August in Seattle. They FaceTimed with Edward's parents and told them about the ceremony in Lake Tahoe. Esme was upset at first, but when they explained why they eloped, she calmed down and she felt badly for jumping to conclusions.
Bella had no living relatives, and she didn't want to be on her own. However, their second wedding in Seattle was as perfect as their quiet wedding in Tahoe.
So, after that call, they posted their wedding video on Christmas Eve as a bonus video while they were in Boston, staying at an Airbnb. They had hoped to make it back to Seattle by the holidays, but Edward's sickness and some nasty weather prevented them from driving back to the Pacific Northwest. They promised to be back for Tessa's first birthday celebration scheduled for the beginning of February.
"We should do a giveaway or something," Bella said. "To celebrate our one millionth subscriber."
"We have a ton of PR we can box up and send off," Edward coughed. "Let me set up the camera and you can announce it. We'll post video of the goodies on our Instagram."
"You're brilliant, Sparkle," Bella sang. "You stay on that side of the camera. I adore you, hubby of mine, but you look like death warmed over."
"I can feel the love, Isabella Marie," Edward deadpanned, picking up the camera and putting a fresh memory card into it.
"You know I love you, Edward. You're rocking this greasy bedhead look with red nose and eau de Vicks."
"I get it. I'll shower after we film, babe," Edward sighed. "You ready?"
"Yep," Bella nodded. He turned on the camera, pointing to her. "Happy New Year, everyone! We hope you had an amazing holiday season with your families. Edward and I were in Boston for Christmas and for the New Year, we're in a hotel overlooking Time Square. My wonderful husband is sicker than a dog. If you hear wheezing, that's him breathing."
"Why did I marry you?" Edward croaked.
"Because you love me," Bella quipped, blowing him a kiss. "And, I love you, too. Now, the reason we're filming tonight is because we hit a milestone. My wonderful, albeit sick, husband was perusing YouTube and he showed me a little tidbit. We hit one million subscribers! That's so exciting. I cannot believe … we cannot believe that one million of you find the content we put up on our channel is interesting. We're incredibly grateful and we love what we do.
"In honor of our one million subscribers, we're doing a giveaway. Check out our Instagram for pictures of the goodies you'll get for giveaway. However, included in the giveaway will be a weekend at the tiny home in Idaho we visited in May, along with a ton of other goodies from Edward and me. What you need to do is like this video, be subscribed to our channel and our Insta and leave a comment of which adventure you liked the best since we began our journey, traveling across the country in a van. This giveaway is open US residents only and will be announced on Instagram on January 7th. May the odds ever be in your favor and thank you so much for … supporting Edward and me as we embarked on this next journey. Happy New Year! Drink some champagne and be safe!"
Edward ended filming, coughing deeply. "Fuck, I needed to do that since you started sharing about where we'd post the winner," he groaned.
"You go shower and clear up that shit. I'm going to edit this and post it," Bella chided, pushing him toward the bathroom.
"Can you shower with me?" he pouted.
"Oh, that's pitiful," Bella laughed. He jutted his lip out further, crawling toward her. "Fine, but we need to get this up before midnight." She kissed his too hot forehead, getting up and dragging him to the bathroom. They showered together and it took a lot of Edward. Slathering his chest down with Vicks and gave him some medicine, she tucked him into bed. Within moments, he was cutting logs. Bella kissed his forehead and edited the video he shot, adding some footage of the crowd outside along with some closeups of their subscriber count. Once she was done, she posted the video on their channel along with a story on their Instagram with a link to the video.
After the video was posted, Bella shut down the computer and closed the curtains. She crawled into bed, next to her sick husband and as the revelers shouted, 'Happy New Year', she snuggled close to him.
xx DD xx
June 23rd, 2022
Seattle, Washington
Edward was signing for delivery of alcohol and glasses at the Neptune Theater. Bella was buzzing around, making sure the decorations were set up for the premier of their documentary of their trip across the continental United States. With editing and everything, the movie was a little over an hour long. Along the way, their channel grew to well over three million subscribers, with more joining every day.
"Edward?" Bella called. "Did you give the final guest list to the manager?"
"I sent it yesterday," Edward said, giving the delivery driver a smile. "Thank you. You'll pick up the glasses at what time tomorrow?"
"Around noon, Mr. Cullen. The manager of the theater said she'd be here for pick up. The final bill will be emailed to you upon pick up," the driver nodded. "Congratulations. I love your channel, sir. My girlfriend and I watch your videos as soon as you post."
"Oh, I'm not a sir," Edward laughed. "But, thank you. Are you coming tonight?"
"I wanted to, but the tickets sold out," he blushed.
Edward reached into his back pocket. He handed two tickets to the delivery driver. "See you tonight." They shook hands and Edward watched as the bartenders and servers took the alcohol and glasses. A catering service was coming shortly before the guests. Edward strode to the theater, double checking that projector and sound was set up correctly. Bella was checking the table set up around the theater and putting postcards with their social media information, along with pens and other swag. On the various flat screens around the theater, clips from their YouTube videos and Instagram stories played on loop. Large photos of their travels were on display as well. "Glitter, everything looks great. Let's change into our outfits. The caterers and bartenders are here."
"Okay," she nodded. "Are you sure everything will be okay?"
"Love, it's going to be amazing, just like our trip," Edward smiled, kissing his wife. "Come on. Maybe a quickie in the green room will calm you down."
"I'd rather take my time, Sparkle," Bella purred, dragging him backstage.
After a not-so-quick quickie, Edward and Bella walked out to the lobby of the theater, greeting the first of their guests. It was so nice to be able to hug, kiss and welcome their friends, supporters, and family without fear of getting sick. The pandemic had shifted to an endemic. COVID would always be a part of their lives, but with the vaccinations, people were not getting as sick. Masks were not mandated, and the world was healing from the three-year long nightmare of COVID.
Benjamin, the man who'd they met while in São Paulo, walked into the theater. On his arm, he had a beautiful woman who clearly was not Tia. Bella and Edward hugged him. "We never expected you to come, Benjamin," Bella laughed.
"I was in the states on business," Benjamin grinned. "Portland. So, I convinced my wife to come up with me. Edward, Bella, this is Olivia."
"It's a pleasure to meet you," Bella said, shaking her hand. "This is my husband, Edward."
"Benjamin said he knew the two of you. I watched your videos," Olivia said with a beautiful, rich accent. "You both are so … dynamic on camera. Smart, funny, beautiful, but not conceited. I love how you approach your videos, and you make them so interesting."
"Thank you," Edward beamed, sliding his arm around Bella's waist.
"Olivia, why don't you get us a drink, love?" Benjamin said, kissing her temple.
"Of course, Benji," Olivia nodded. "Do either of you want anything?"
"We're good," Edward answered.
Olivia walked away and Benjamin turned back to them. "I met her a month after I got back from São Paulo. We were friends for a long time, and we didn't start dating until my divorce was finalized."
"What happened to your ex-porcupine?" Bella snorted.
"She's in jail for prostitution," Benjamin snickered. "Karma's a bitch."
"I can only imagine," Edward deadpanned, shuddering.
"Anyway, I wanted to congratulate you both. I was surprised when I got the email, but I knew I had to make it work to come out. I think I saw Osvaldo, Huilen and Nahuel when I came in, as well. Did you invite them?"
"We've been emailing back and forth, and we asked them to come. Last we heard, things were up in the air," Bella explained. "It'll be nice to see them again."
Olivia came back with two glasses of some wine local to Seattle. Edward flagged down a photographer, asking her to take the photo of Benjamin and Olivia. Once they had the pictures, Bella promised to send a copy to her friends from South Africa.
A half hour later, they ran into Osvaldo and Huilen. Nahuel was flirting with Jacob, who was drooling over at the attention from the handsome Brazilian man. Osvaldo and Huilen said that the resort had some difficult times during the height of COVID, but bounced back when things began to open up. Bella and Edward made promises to come back when they begin their next adventure, but they wouldn't say what that adventure was.
Wandering into the theater, Bella and Edward were introduced by Miss Alice to Thomas, Mariah, and their families. They were nice and genuinely happy to meet Miss Alice's adoptive family. Thomas hugged Bella, thanking her for taking care of his mother when they were too selfish to do so. Mariah was a little more standoffish, seeing the sapphire jewelry that had once belonged to her mother on Bella. Miss Alice noticed Mariah's cold reception of Bella and she called her on it. Mariah apologized and eventually melted, warming up to Bella.
The last group they mingled with before heading up to the stage was Edward's family, along with Angela, Emmett, and Tessa. Sparkling on Angela's finger was a beautiful diamond ring. Bella and Edward knew that Emmett was going to propose, but the details were unclear. It appeared he did propose, and Angela said yes. Angela asked Bella to be her matron of honor, while Emmett asked Edward to stand up as his best man.
With promises of sharing how Emmett proposed, Edward and Bella walked up to the stage and took the two microphones from the stage manager. Bella smiled as a spotlight blinded her. "Good evening, everyone, and thank you for coming tonight." Applause filled the theater, along with cheers and whistles. "Edward and I are so thrilled that everyone is here."
"We never expected that what we started as a hobby has grown into this," Edward chuckled. "This has been an amazing journey and we're so grateful for this opportunity. Personally, I've learned so much from traveling and from the beautiful woman standing next to me." He brushed his lips over hers. "It's rare that you can find your soul mate and best friend. I'm even luckier that I get to live out my dream with her."
"I love you," Bella said with the microphone by her side.
"I adore you, Glitter," Edward beamed. "Shall we continue?"
"Probably," she giggled, lifting the microphone up to her mouth. "Now, here's the premier of our documentary from our trip driving across the continental United States. This will also be posted on our YouTube channel in a week, along with some bloopers, as well. Enjoy."
The lights dimmed and they walked off the stage, sitting at the table with Emmett, Angela, and Tessa. The documentary was everything they'd hoped it would be. Edward held Bella's hand, rubbing his finger across her wedding set. An hour later, the movie ended, and they walked back up to the stage.
"What did you all think?" Bella asked. Cheers, whistles, and applause filled the auditorium. "A majority of that footage was never shown and we're so glad you liked it. Now, I bet you're wondering what we're doing next, hmmmm?"
"Giving us grandchildren," Esme yelled.
"In time, Mom," Edward blushed, shaking his head.
Miss Alice and Esme sharked a high five, making Bella and Edward blush.
"We'll get to that," Bella smirked. "But, after we … travel to all seven continents. I just needed to get my passport updated since I'm no longer Isabella Swan, but Isabella Cullen. We got our new passports earlier this week and after a couple of weeks, we're going to begin this next adventure."
"We're still going to be making videos and posting on our YouTube channel," Edward continued. "Our next stop … destinations unknown, but wherever it may be, I'm home. You know why? Because home is where the heart is, and Bella owns my heart …"
"Just like Edward owns mine," Bella added, kissing his jaw.
"Regardless, our home is within each other, no matter where our travels lead us," Edward said, holding up his glass of wine. "To the journey."
"To the journey," Bella echoed with the audience. Edward captured her lips, smiling against her mouth. "Forever, Sparkle."
"Forever, Glitter."
Fin