A/N: This is mid-Eclipse through the end of Breaking Dawn from Edward's perspective. Thanks for reading!

These characters are not mine and all belong to Stephenie Meyer.


Mrs. Isabella Cullen (Breaking Dawn)

We finally turned onto the drive and it was all I could do to not throw myself out the door and sprint the rest of the way home. The trees leading down the drive were decorated with twinkle lights and large white satin bows. Emmett and Jasper's handy work.

Esme put us to work right away in the backyard hanging a hundred more strands of twinkle lights and thousands of flowers. I tried very hard to avoid looking for Bella. Jasper helped me the best he could casting a veil of tedium over her and my two sisters. I could have overcome it, but chose not to. The rhythm of her heart, a little too fast at the moment, and her voice occasionally carrying from the house would have to be enough for now.

"Deep breaths, Bella," I overheard Alice say. "And try to lower your heart rate. You're going to sweat off your new face."

"I'll get right on that," Bella replied sarcastically.

I smiled to myself.

Emmett noticed. "He's cheating," he announced in a sing-song voice.

"I'm not," I objected. "You're going to get me kicked out of my own wedding."

It wasn't much later that I was shuffled off to get ready myself. I was cleaned up and dressed when Esme walked into my room.

She carefully pinned a boutonniere to my jacket before taking my face in both of her hands.

I've always felt it was my job to look after you, but I also knew it was incomplete. I never gave up hoping someone would touch your heart. She moved one of her hands to the left side of my chest. As your mother, I couldn't have designed anyone better for you. She compliments you perfectly and, because I love you as if I had given birth to you myself, I know Elizabeth would have felt the same.

"Thank you, Esme," I whispered.

And, she continued more firmly, you are as good for her as she is for you. I know you still have doubts and question yourself, but once you say your vows, you owe it to Bella to let that go. She is all in. She deserves the same in return. Do you understand?

"Yes, mom."

She took a deep breath. I was sure she would be crying if it were possible.

"Alright." She kissed my cheek. "Let's get downstairs and not give Alice anymore reason to stress."

It was easier to distract myself from looking for Bella now that the guests had arrived. The mental chatter was loud.

If her dress has an empire waist, she's definitely pregnant, thought Jessica Stanley.

I hope Renée remembered to pay the electric bill before we left, thought Bella's stepfather Phil, I probably should have done it myself. She's had a lot on her plate.

There are so many of them, thought Sue Clearwater as she sized up my cousins.

Patricia Clark, the wife of Charlie's deputy noticed the Denali women as well. Ugh, I just know Mark is going to ogle at them.

Edward, Esme thought. It's time, sweetheart.

I entered from the side, taking my place beside Reverend Weber. Carlisle followed behind me.

Oh, he looks good in a tux. Not that he'd have it on long if I had my way... I tuned Tanya's thoughts out.

And Kate and Jessica's.

Renée descended the stairs and took her seat. Oh, it's too soon for this. My mascara's probably running down my face.

Phil picked up on her anxiety immediately and wrapped a caring arm around her.

Carlisle put his hand on my shoulder. "Ready?" He whispered.

For only a century. I rolled my eyes and he chuckled.

Rosalie struck up Pachelbel's Canon and my stomach was assaulted with butterflies.

I was still trying very hard to distract myself from Bella, but I almost slipped and eavesdropped when I heard her say my name.

"Edward," she squeaked in a breathless voice. "Okay."

I picked out her racing heart. Was she having second thoughts?

But quickly Alice emerged, theatrically dancing down the stairs, and I knew all must be well. With agile steps, she narrowly dodged a beam of late afternoon sunlight that had just emerged over the final step.

She met my eyes as she started down the short aisle.

We did it! For the first time in two months she gave me a warm smile. And I forgive you. As long as you don't screw up the reception.

A sudden fanfare trilled through the soaring music.

I felt impatient. My legs yearned to pace. To do something about the nervous energy.

Most everyone looked up at the stairs expectantly. Only Carlisle, Esme, and Alice kept their eyes trained on me.

Carlisle squeezed my shoulder once more.

And then I saw her.

My Bella.

On her father's arm, she descended the stairs in an elegant white gown that hugged her soft feminine curves. The pink color she wore on her lips matched her blushing cheeks exactly. I couldn't see her eyes, only her thick dark lashes as she looked down at her feet.

How many times had I imagined this exact moment?

I felt an overwhelming sense of responsibility for the perfect creature who was, by some miracle, descending the stairs to me. Though I did not deserve her, she trusted me with her happiness and I could not fail her.

On the bottom stair she stepped into the same warm light that Alice had dodged and suddenly everything about her glowed. Her peaches and cream skin, the red in her dark hair, her satin gown and her tulle veil...

My angel.

Finally, as she stepped out of the bright light, I saw her eyes. The dark eyes that had haunted me every second since the first day I saw her. Dark eyes that looked around, seeming overwhelmed by the faces watching her and the profusion of white blossoms that hung in garlands overhead. She looked afraid.

It took everything to stay put and not meet her halfway down the aisle. I didn't want her to be afraid.

Then she met my eyes and the fear seemed to melt away. In its place were peace and, incomprehensibly, wonder.

I felt at peace, too. No, much more than that. There was so much - so much joy it felt like I might burst. Unchecked joy that I had won her trust and affection and love. Unchecked joy that I had earned the privilege of living out the rest of my days by her side. Unchecked joy that I would have a forever of her accepting and compassionate and adoring eyes.

I felt triumphant. The cold and malevolent universe had tried to keep me from her through its cruel manipulation of my already vile nature, through my self-doubt and despair, through formidable adversaries, through a perfectly molded rival...

I smiled, exultant, because nothing, nothing, could come between us now. I wouldn't let it.

She was mine. And I was hers.

Her expression changed to one I didn't know. It was fiery and impatient and sure. I wished I could read her thoughts and somehow understand why she looked at me that way. As if I were her natural prey rather than her natural predator.

I'd catalogued every finite movement of her face for nearly two years and here she was still surprising me.

I lived completely in that perfect moment. I did not share her impatience even knowing that the next moment would somehow be even greater.

She reached the end of the aisle and I held out my hand.

For the first time since I saw her on the stairs, I remembered we weren't the only two people in the room. Charlie's indistinct thoughts were heavy as he took Bella's hand and placed it into mine. A gesture weightier than he could comprehend.

But I would not linger long on these more difficult thoughts. The heat of her skin soothed and erased my worries.

Our vows were simple, traditional. Everything we were not.

Her eyes were wet as she echoed the reverend. "I, Bella, take you, Edward... to be my lawfully wedded husband... To have and to hold... from this day forward... as long as we both shall live."

Staring into her eyes, her soft hands resting on top of mine, I said, "I, Edward, take you, Bella... to be my lawfully wedded wife... To have and to hold... from this day forward... as long as we both shall live."

"I do," she breathed, tears streaming down her face.

"I do," I promised her.

"By the power vested in me by the State of Washington, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride."

I felt overwhelmed with emotion. Joy, love, the electricity thrumming through my bloodless veins. Hope as I'd never known it.

Overcome as I was, I minded my movements that much more carefully as I reached to cradle her face in my hands.

She blinked her eyes trying to clear them of tears and my own eyes stung as I leaned down to kiss the woman to whom I belonged. She stretched up on her toes to meet me, throwing her arms - bouquet and all - around my neck.

I kissed her tenderly, adoringly. These soft lips that I kissed - they were my wife's lips. These velvet cheeks that I held - they were my wife's cheeks. These warm arms that held me - they were my wife's arms.

I spared a second of concentration to appreciate and memorize the moment as Esme saw it - a crystal clear capture better than any photograph.

I let the kiss go on longer than I probably should have, but I really didn't care. I ignored the uncomfortable thoughts until the titters started.

Emmett cleared his throat pointedly. Dammit. Alice and Jasper are going to win the bet.

Yes, they would. In that moment I felt sure of it.

I held Bella's face fractionally tighter, restraining, as I pulled away. I smirked at her, amused as always by her unbridled passion.

But I wouldn't have wanted her any other way.

A blushing Reverend Weber delivered his final line. "I present to you, for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Cullen!"

The crowd erupted into applause and cheers, and I turned our bodies to face our friends and family.

Oh, look how she can't take her eyes off of him, Esme marveled.

My baby, Renée thought, pulling her daughter off of my arm and into her embrace.

Bella kept my hand never letting it go as we were passed through the crowd.

After many hugs and handshakes, I wrapped my hand around her slender waist and pulled her towards the glass back doors.

Her eyes were wide as she took in the scene. The result of our earlier efforts executed precisely as Alice had ordered.

It was just twilight over the river, the sun behind the trees now. Trees that glimmered with lights that set the thousands of white flowers beneath them aglow. Even more flowers served as a fragrant, airy tent over the dance floor.

As Bella stood mesmerized by Alice's fairytale scene, I stood mesmerized by Bella, taking in every detail. I had worried Alice would overdo the makeup. Bella needed none. But her painted face was only familiar, a cross between her human present and her immortal future. Her hair looked nearly black in the dim light, contrasting beautifully with her fair skin.

I could feel Bella's body relax against my side. The intensity of the ceremony had passed leaving only sweet celebration behind it.

We were greeted again by the friends we'd just embraced. There was time to talk now, to laugh.

One of the first to come up to us was Seth, trailed by Sue and Billy. Though two months had past since I'd seen him, his positive regard for me had not diminished.

"Congrats, guys." He leaned in for a hug which I returned with my free arm.

Sue shuddered. That puppy dog brain of his is going to get him hurt one of these days. Her mental voice and harsh demeanor reminded me of her daughter.

"It's good to see things work out for you, man," Seth continued. "I'm happy for you."

Seth had been an intimate witness to the heartache that had unfolded through one of the worst nights of my life and had watched as the mess spilled into the morning. I remembered the undeserved compassion he'd had for me and how his peaceful mind had helped keep me sane. Fighting together had sealed the friendship.

"Thank you, Seth. That means a lot to me." I looked at Sue and Billy. "Thank you, as well. For letting Seth come. For supporting Bella today."

"You're welcome," Billy said. While the man did not view me as a friend as Seth did, there was some authentic warmth there. Likely the result of Carlisle healing his only son. Perhaps my presence that day had helped my standing with him as well.

As the three walked away I concentrated on Billy's thoughts. Something about Jacob was making him happy and it made me curious, nosey. Later tonight or early tomorrow. Glad he'll beat Rachel home by a couple days. Doubt he'll open up much, but at least he'll have the chance.

Ah. It seemed Jacob was finally coming home. The timing made sense. He probably wanted to be sure we were gone. I was happy for Billy and hopeful for my former rival. Maybe being surrounded by his family and friends would help him heal faster. Maybe he could get on with the human life he'd left behind in February.

Angela and Ben were the next to claim us, followed by Reverend and Mrs. Weber.

Mike and Jessica, who seemed to be an item at the moment, came up to us next. I hoped they ended up together - the agitating pair deserved each other. Jessica's eyes analyzed Bella's flat stomach while Mike's eyes raked over Bella's chest and hips.

The girls hugged and I gave Mike a firm handshake.

Ow! Seriously something wrong with that guy. Bella should have...

Kate, next in line with my other cousins, seemed amused at the look in my eye as I watched him retreat. Was he having naughty thoughts? I could teach him a lesson, she offered, subtly fluttering her fingers across her other palm.

I gave her a wistful smile.

Tanya strode forward and pulled me too tight against her. I stiffened, but politely returned the hug.

A married man. She's a lucky girl. He's so smart. So handsome. So confident. Confident in bed, I'm sure... Too bad she'll have to wait a while for that...

My other cousins stared curiously at Bella who was standing much too still - not breathing I realized - and wearing a carefully polite smile.

Bella's eyes quickly darted towards Tanya and away again.

Kate poked her sister in the back. I know she's having naughty thoughts.

"Ah, Edward," Tanya said, ignoring Kate. "I've missed you."

I chuckled and deftly maneuvered out of the hug, placing my hand lightly on her shoulder and stepping back as if to get a better look at her.

Bella exhaled.

"It's been too long, Tanya," I said. "You look well."

"So do you." More than well.

I felt the need to draw a clear boundary for both Tanya and Bella's sake. "Let me introduce you to my wife." I thought I might explode with satisfaction saying the word. My cousins chuckled at my enthusiasm. "Tanya, this is my Bella."

Tanya tore her eyes from me to look at Bella. She'll be quite pretty once he's changed her. A brunette - I should have known. She must be lovely to have captured his heart.

She took Bella's hand in both of hers.

"Welcome to the family, Bella." Tanya smiled ruefully. "We consider ourselves Carlisle's extended family, and I am sorry about the, er, recent incident when we did not behave as such. We should have met you sooner. Can you forgive us?"

"Of course," Bella breathed, seeming relieved. "It's so nice to meet you."

I was pleased with Tanya's easy acceptance of Bella, though I shouldn't have been surprised. Tanya was not petty like Rosalie.

"The Cullens are all evened up in numbers now. Perhaps it will be our turn next, eh, Kate?" Tanya grinned at her sister.

"Keep the dream alive," Kate said with a roll of her eyes. She took Bella's hand from Tanya's and squeezed it gently. "Welcome, Bella."

Carmen put her hand on top of Kate's. "I'm Carmen, this is Eleazar. We're all so very pleased to finally meet you."

"M-me, too," Bella stuttered. While she seemed to be genuinely enjoying herself, I needed to remember she probably felt a bit like a fish out of water. I, on the other hand, was very much in my element.

Edward, the two of you are easily the cutest thing I've ever seen, thought Carmen. Qué bonita pareja.

She's changed him, thought Eleazar. He's nearly unrecognizable from the last time I saw him.

Tanya noted the Clarks appraising her family with wide eyes as they waited to greet us. "We'll get to know each other later. We'll have eons of time for that!" She laughed and led her group towards their table.

All the standard traditions were kept. Alice wouldn't have had it any other way. Bright flashbulbs illuminated our faces as we held a knife over a cake that would have been too large even if all the guests did eat food. I kept my grip tight over Bella's hand where it curled around the knife handle - there would be no accidents tonight. We took turns shoving cake in each others faces. I kept my promise to Alice and made a mental note to thank her - Bella's impressed expression made it worth every disgusting, lumpy bite. Bella managed to toss her bouquet right into Angela's hands causing Reverend and Mrs. Weber to share a hopeful glance - they seemed to really like Ben.

The whole ordeal with the garter was predictably awful. Removing it was easy enough. For one, Bella had managed to shimmy the fabric down to her mid-calf. I could hear Alice's disapproval - she'd placed it mid-thigh. Also helpful were the lace and ribbons available to latch my teeth onto without risking contact with her skin. The unfortunate part was enduring the crude and embarrassed thoughts of those watching. Bad was my mother-in-law who was very proud of her daughter's selection of husband for reasons I did not need to hear. Worse were Emmett and Jasper howling with laughter at Bella's scarlet cheeks. Well, maybe Rose and I have a shot at winning this thing after all, Emmett mused. Still worse were Tanya and Jessica, each imagining themselves in Bella's place. And worst of all was Mike Newton, imagining himself in my place.

I winked at Bella and, without looking at the boy, shot the garter straight into his surprised face.

The music started and I pulled Bella into my arms for our first dance as husband and wife. Surprisingly, she showed no apprehension. She seemed only content as I twirled her under the glow of the canopy of lights and camera flashes.

I held her close as the music lulled.

"Enjoying the party, Mrs. Cullen?" I whispered in her ear. I was sure I would never tire of calling her that.

She laughed. "That will take a while to get used to."

"We have a while," I reminded her, my voice exultant.

And, because I couldn't resist, I leaned down and kissed her, not pulling away until the next song began.

Alice shoved a reluctant Charlie onto the dance floor much to Seth and Billy's amusement. Tentatively he tapped my shoulder.

Esme found me for our dance and we showed off a bit.

You're absolutely glowing. "Have you ever been happier?"

"No," I said with certainty. "Thank you for helping make today perfect."

"It was all Alice," she said dismissively. "Thank you for giving me Bella." My daughter, she thought glancing lovingly at my wife.

Her eyes found Renée next. Her only child... Ignore me, she thought suddenly, trying to redirect her thoughts. I'm so sorry.

"There's no need to apologize," I assured her. It was natural that Esme would empathize with Renée. And she was right. This wasn't fair to Renée. She would suffer. Bella would suffer.

But Bella had made her decision. Alice saw only one future for her now.

Over the next half hour or so I was claimed by various dance partners, taking advantage of the hand warmers Alice had stuffed into my pockets as needed. I kept a careful eye on Bella. She shared a sweet moment with Carlisle who took the time to teach her actual technique rather than simply lead her. Jasper had her feeling only delighted as he danced with her. And I was happy to see she spent a song with Seth, a representative of the family she'd found in La Push. Maybe, if the memory got back to his brother, it would help him to see her so happy. Or maybe it would do him no good at all.

I took a brief absence to take care of the cake issue and Mike Newton claimed Bella just as I walked back outside. I stood beside Jasper watching them.

Did his hand need to be so low on her back?

I wonder what she's wearing under the dress. Probably something lacey like that garter. See-through...

"Am I handling this one or you?" Jasper asked, but I was already on my way.

"Still not that fond of Mike, eh?" Bella commented as I whirled her away from him.

"Not when I have to listen to his thoughts. He's lucky I didn't kick him out. Or worse," I said darkly.

"Yeah, right."

"Have you had a chance to look at yourself?"

I asked the question rhetorically, so I was surprised when she said, "Um. No, I guess not. Why?"

"Then I suppose you don't realize how utterly, heartbreakingly beautiful you are tonight. I'm not surprised Mike's having difficulty with improper thoughts about a married woman. I am disappointed that Alice didn't make sure you were forced to look in a mirror."

Oh, don't start with me, Alice warned from the other side of the dancefloor. I didn't have time to babysit today. She could have looked in the mirror any time she wanted.

"You are very biased, you know," Bella told me.

I sighed and then paused and turned her around to face the house. The wall of glass reflected the party back like a long mirror. I pointed at our reflection. "Biased am I?"

Her eyes lingered on my face before finally looking at herself. She seemed confused by what she saw.

Hey, bloodsucker - er, I mean, Edward...

I stiffened, turning abruptly towards the unexpected 'voice.'

Consider this my RSVP, I guess.

"Oh!" I said. I concentrated for a moment, locating Jacob Black just a few paces into the trees. As I did so, I realized there were other voices, too. Sam and Quil in their wolf forms. I could hear a couple others connected to the pack, but not present here. The thoughts all seemed calm. Diplomatic, even.

I smiled. This was just what Bella needed. Another fish out of water. The only missing member of her family. Her best friend.

"What is it?" she asked.

"A surprise wedding gift."

"Huh?"

I didn't answer; I just started dancing again, spinning her towards the far end of the dancefloor. On the other side, I wrapped my arm around her and pulled her away from the lights and past the giant cedars.

He watched our approach, absorbing it all. Bella as a bride. Trying to see the girl he remembered in t-shirts and muddy jeans in the elegant woman who walked toward him now. More beautiful than he'd ever seen her. But still just the same with her pink cheeks and beating heart. For now, he reminded himself.

And there he was, waiting in the shadows. Standing there in a dress shirt and slacks, he looked nothing like the broken man I'd last seen in La Push. His thoughts were calm, but not at peace.

"Thank you," I said fervently. "This is very... kind of you."

He tore his eyes from her to meet mine.

"Kind is my middle name. Can I cut in?" He asked, echoing the first words he'd ever said to me. Somehow nothing and everything had changed since that first meeting. He seemed to feel the same.

At the sound of his voice, Bella's hand flew up to her throat. I felt her sway and steadied her.

"Jacob!" She choked. "Jacob!"

"Hey there, Bells." He smiled a little, amused at her enthusiasm.

She stumbled forward towards him. I kept my grip under her elbow, knowing her eyes were probably still adjusting to the dark. His hands caught her and I let go.

He pulled her close into a hug. She buried her face in his chest as he leaned down to press his cheek to the top of her head, his eyes squeezing shut.

He wasn't taunting me. He wasn't lusting for her body. Rather, he was a man discovering water after wandering lost in the desert.

The moment was profoundly intimate and I felt like I was intruding. "Rosalie won't forgive me if she doesn't get her official turn on the dance floor," I murmured, turning away.

Neither acknowledged the comment.

I felt the old jealousy and doubt seeing his hands on her, seeing her need for him. Again I felt the almost tangible magnetic attraction between them as if they were two destined lovers...

They were unfortunate feelings, but they were just that - feelings. I had quite literally invited them upon myself and it was a price worth paying for the joy his presence brought her.

"Oh, Jacob," I heard her choke out amid tears.

Still, a part of me longed for her to set boundaries with him as I had set with Tanya. That was foolish, of course, because Jacob and Bella were nothing like Tanya and myself. They shared an undeniably passionate and romantic love born from the ashes of the fire I had set. It was a very human love, tumultuous and evolving, yet supernaturally and mysteriously strong. It was a love that Bella had chosen to turn her back on for me.

And, when Bella's heart stopped in less than a month's time, nature would draw those boundaries.

So, I really needed to stop feeling sorry for myself.

Rosalie was waiting for me at the edge of the dancefloor. "Was that all talk or were you actually hoping I would dance with you?"

"Hoping? You'd deny me a dance at my own wedding?"

"No." She grabbed my hand. "But it's still rude to be presumptuous."

We danced circles around the human couples until an agitated Alice warned me not to clear out her dance floor. She was grumpy the bride was missing from her perfect scene.

"It's funny to think Carlisle envisioned this would be our wedding," Rosalie said, shaking her head.

I laughed. "Yes, we revoked his match-making privileges after that."

We both glanced at Carlisle where he stood beside Reverend Weber. He smirked slightly, but otherwise did not acknowledge us.

"I have to question your judgement a little," she said.

"You usually do." I couldn't hear where she was going with this.

"I mean in terms of asking Emmett for advice..." regarding your compromise with Bella.

"I didn't. And I assure you, that is the last thing I want to talk about with either of you," I said pointedly.

"Hear me out." I'm a woman. Don't you think I could give you better advice than Emmett, Jasper, or Carlisle?

"Rosalie, I really don't want to discuss this with you," I hissed. I hadn't wanted to discuss it with any of them. Even Carlisle I'd only spoken to out of necessity.

"Let me just say one thing." You give Bella absolutely everything she wants when she wants it. There are times when its more... exciting not to do that.

Did she not realize that I had been doing exactly what she advised our entire courtship, making things much too exciting for Bella?

The song ended and I twirled Rosalie into Emmett's waiting arms.

Think about it...

I eavesdropped briefly on Jacob and Bella. In time to hear her grant him as many dances as he wanted.

Kate claimed me next and then I found myself standing beside Seth watching his mom lead Charlie around the dance floor. Seth was eating what must have been his fifth piece of cake. I would make sure Alice sent him home with his own tier.

"How is it?" I asked.

"Oh man. It's heaven. But - can I ask you something?" He lowered his voice. "Earlier when you ate the cake..." I mean, I thought you guys don't eat.

I laughed and then froze, hearing several things at once.

Edward! Alice calling me, panicked

Sam - quick. It's Jake. Quil.

"Jake - stop!" Bella's terrified voice.

It was fortunate no one other than Seth was paying attention to me because I vanished into thin air, darting to Bella's side at once.

"Take your hands off her!" My voice was cold as ice, sharp as razors.

Jacob's body was vibrating violently, his hands wrapped too tightly around the tops of Bella's arms. His thoughts were tangled up with fury.

Quil snarled. Shit. Shit. Sam - he's gonna kill her.

Sam bounded to Quil's side snarling, too. Don't do this, Jacob. His order was hollow and unheard with Jacob in his human form.

Seth had followed me. "Jake, bro, back away. You're losing it."

Jacob was frozen, his horrified eyes wide and staring. I could hear his concern for Bella, his murderous rage for me, but I didn't understand the trigger.

Behind me I heard Jasper's frustration as he tried to calm him. His manipulation was working to the extent that it left Jacob nearly paralyzed, but there was something powerful within Jacob attempting to override it.

"You'll hurt her," Seth whispered. "Let her go."

Images flashed in Sam's head. His Emily covered in blood, unconscious. His Emily in a hospital bed.

"Now!" I snarled, furious and afraid all at once.

Jacob's fear of hurting her seemed to outweigh his anger and finally he succumbed to Jasper's forces, releasing Bella and dropping his hands to his sides.

I grabbed her immediately, darting backwards a couple yards before tensing defensively in front of her.

Quil and Sam were between us and Jacob now. It seemed they didn't know exactly what had set Jacob off either, but they weren't completely surprised.

...shouldn't have let him come. Too volatile when it comes to Bella...

Seth got his arms around Jacob. "C'mon, Jake. Let's go."

Jacob's eyes bored into mine, burning with fury. "I'll kill you," he said, his voice so choked with rage that it was low as a whisper. "I'll kill you myself! I'll do it now!" What are you thinking? Having sex with her while she's still human? Disgusting parasite...

Sam growled sharply, warning Seth who would no doubt be seriously injured if Jacob were to phase.

Seth wasn't ignorant of that. He hoped Jacob would factor his safety into his decision to phase and choose not to. Jacob was concerned about his brother, but it was only a small pull beside everything else.

...never should have left. I should have fought harder. I should have just grabbed her and run. What a sick way to die. No, I won't let him. I won't let him take her away and...

"Seth, get out of the way," I hissed.

But Seth ignored me. He managed to tug Jacob a few feet farther back. "Don't do it, Jake. Walk away. C'mon."

...Seth always in the fucking way. If Sam knew what the bloodsucker had planned, if Sam understood what he planned to do to her...

As much as he wanted him to, Sam could see Seth wasn't going to back off. While it was only Jasper, Emmett and I in the darkness, he knew there were many more who would come to our aid if things escalated and he'd never wanted a fight. With these calculations in mind, he put his head against Jacob's chest and shoved.

Together the two towed him back into the trees until I could no longer see them.

...disgusting leech risking her life for his own pleasure. Just some sick, perverted fetish...

Quil stayed where he was, looking off in the direction they'd fled, ready to hold Jacob off until Sam gave the alpha command.

Jasper felt Jacob leave his reach a moment later. At the same time Sam, seeing Jacob finally overcome by the violent tremors, knocked Seth out of the way. Jacob took one bound before Sam ordered him to go straight home.

I could hear Sam and Quil's disgust as they came to understand what had passed.

...It's unnatural. An abomination. A perversion...

...Ugh. The girl's digging her own grave...

I waited anxiously to see if Jacob was right. Would this be the thing that disrupted Sam's posture of diplomacy?

But Sam could see Jacob's memory of Bella's words. As appalling as it was, she'd chosen this. And she wasn't their ward.

"I'm sorry," Bella whispered to Quil.

"It's all right now, Bella," I murmured.

Quil whipped his head around to glare at me. You kill her and we come for you, leech.

I gave him one cold nod, ready for him to leave.

Quil, Sam commanded, go home. Now!

Quil huffed and then turned, following after the others.

I could hear Jacob's fading voice. A string of obscenities launched at both me and Sam.

Emmett and Jasper slipped subtly back into the reception.

The reception. Our reception. Right.

I focused in on the thoughts of the guests. Only the Cullens and our extended family noticed anything amiss. I heard Carlisle letting Billy know that Jake had "stopped by" and that Seth had left with him so Sue wouldn't worry. Though I was sure she still would.

I'd been foolish inviting Jacob against Bella's wishes. For ignoring Alice and Esme's concerns. But I could berate myself over that another time.

"All right," I said to myself, and then I looked at Bella. "Let's get back."

"But Jake - "

"Sam has him in hand," I reassured her. "He's gone."

"Edward, I'm so sorry. I was stupid - "

"You did nothing wrong - "

"I have such a big mouth! Why would I... I shouldn't have let him get to me like that. What was I thinking?"

Edward, thought Alice, People are going to start asking where you guys are in about forty-five seconds. I could tell she was a little shaken, but she seemed comforted having her full sight back.

"Don't worry." I touched Bella's face. "We need to get back to the reception before someone notices our absence."

Bella shook her head, trying to reorient herself. "Give me two seconds," she pleaded.

Of course. Her body had a stress response to recover from. Mine did not.

"My dress?"

"You look fine. Not a hair out of place."

She took two deep breaths. "Okay. Let's go."

I put my arms around her and led her back to the party. When we passed under the twinkle lights, I spun her gently onto the dancefloor. We melted in with the other dancers and the couple of people that had wondered about our absence questioned whether they hadn't just overlooked us before.

Emmett and Jasper stayed close to the forest while Alice and Rosalie delighted a group of people with stories on the side of the yard exactly opposite the near-incident, which I was almost certain was intentional. Carlisle and Esme were worried about Bella and I, but they did their best to hide it.

I focused on Bella. She looked too pale. "Are you - "

"I'm fine," she promised. "I can't believe I did that. What's wrong with me?"

"Nothing is wrong with you."

No, nothing was wrong with her. I had said foolish things in that horrible tent two months ago that had made him suspicious. Suspicious enough that he'd probably been fishing just to be sure, knowing exactly the right buttons to push. And then his worst suspicions had been confirmed.

"It's over," Bella said. "Let's not think of it again tonight."

But that wasn't possible. The truth of his accusations lingered like his scent in her hair. I was grotesquely inhuman. Hard, sharp-angled, excessively strong. Cold. And she was soft and fragile. Mortal. Warm with blood that could be shed. Bones and organs that could be crushed. It was unnatural. It was dangerous.

"Edward?" She asked, concerned when I didn't answer.

I closed my eyes and touched my forehead to hers. "Jacob is right. What am I thinking?"

"He is not," she said firmly. "Jacob is way too prejudiced to see anything clearly."

"I should let him kill me for even thinking..." I mumbled.

"Stop it," she said fiercely. She grabbed my face in her hands. I opened my eyes. "You and me. That's the only thing that matters. The only thing you're allowed to think about now. Do you hear me?"

"Yes," I sighed.

"Shit," Alice murmured quietly to Jasper. "He's falling apart. That damn dog."

"Forget Jacob came," Bella insisted. "For me. Promise that you'll let this go."

"I think he's already there," Jasper answered Alice.

"I promise," I lied, hoping I could appease Bella and Alice at least.

"Thank you. Edward, I'm not afraid."

"I am," I whispered.

"Don't be." She took a deep breath and smiled. "By the way, I love you."

I forced a smile. "That's why we're here," I said, trying to match her ease.

"You're monopolizing the bride," Emmett said, coming up behind my shoulder. Boss wants to see you in the house, he told me. "Let me dance with my little sister. This could be my last chance to make her blush." He laughed loudly and I could see some of the tension had already left her shoulders.

Alice had sent just the right person to cheer up Bella and taken the harder job upon herself apparently.

I found her in Carlisle's office. She could already see my explanation - she knew what had set Jacob off.

"Well, the dog sure did tidy up your honeymoon. Mind if Jasper and I tag along?"

I leaned against the desk. "So sorry to cost you the bet," I said, my voice acidic.

"This isn't about the bet. This is about Bella."

"Yes, this is about Bella. She's somehow managed to survive up to this point. I'd like to keep it that way."

"You could do that with without ruining your honeymoon."

"Alice - "

"You promised her, Edward."

"She'll forgive me."

"That's one way to start a marriage."

"You have no idea how complicated all this is. None of you do," I snapped. "And everyone is so eager to give me their opinion. For you to sit here and lecture me about it..." I shook my head. "I never should have promised her this."

Alice sat down next to me on the desk and tentatively put her hand on my shoulder. I resisted the urge to shake it off.

"You are going to make her so happy if you go through with this. The happiest she's ever been. Here." As clear as day. She showed me a vision of Bella walking onto a plane, me by her side.

"Why are you showing me this?"

"I'm trying to show you that when the honeymoon is over Bella is going to board that plane on her own two feet. No death or permanent disability. Not even a wheelchair like she had flying home from Phoenix."

"I don't know, Alice."

"Weren't you paying attention that day we waited for her to come back from La Push? I know I saw more than I wanted to."

I grimaced and she laughed.

"For Bella," she pressed once more.

"Is this you attempting to repay your one-hundred year debt to her?"

"Something like that," she said with a wink.

"By the way, you really couldn't be bothered to take one minute to get her in front of a mirror this afternoon? Don't you think the bride deserves to know what she looks like on her wedding day?"

She glared at me. "Sometimes less is more with Bella. There was a very real chance she would have passed out on me."

I shook my head.

"So... are you going to be a coward or am I winning that bet?"

"You are all terrible people. I hope you know that."

Alice could see Emmett and Rosalie paying up. A near certainty now.

She jumped up. "Ha!" She triumphed at her absent foes. "Come on," she said, turning to me. "You owe me a dance."

After I'd danced with Alice and my cousins I took a break to watch Bella dance with Eleazar. Her footwork had come a long way. Perhaps the result of having so many talented dance partners. But even more impressive than her budding skill was how happy she looked. I wouldn't have imagined it possible for her to be so joyful being the center of attention while dancing. I'd never seen her with her guard down like this.

I couldn't help but reclaim her for the next dance. It was such a relief to pull her into my arms again.

She smiled and laid her head against my chest. I tightened my hold in response.

"I could get used to this," she said.

"Don't tell me you've gotten over your dancing issues?"

"Dancing isn't so bad - with you. But I was thinking more of this," - and she pressed herself to me even tighter, her heat burning and bright - "of never having to let you go."

"Never," I promised, leaning down to kiss her.

It was a serious kind of kiss - intense, slow but building... A reassurance to her that I would make good on my promise.

And for several minutes I did nothing but kiss Bella on what was easily the best day of my life. I would not let the tense two-minute standoff taint the rest.

I was a bit distracted, my focus happily trained on Bella's lips rather than Emmett's amusement at our public display of affection, so I didn't notice Alice until she spoke.

"Bella! It's time!" Alice called.

I ignored her best I could, annoyed my attention was divided now. I kissed Bella more urgently than before, not ready to separate from her warm lips. Not ready to wait almost twenty-four hours before I could make love with her.

Bella seemed to feel the same. Her heart broke into a sprint and her palms were slick against my neck.

"Do you want to miss your plane?" Alice demanded, standing uncomfortably close to us now. "I'm sure you'll have a lovely honeymoon camped out in the airport waiting for another flight."

I turned my face slightly to murmur, "Go away, Alice," and then pressed my lips to Bella's again.

I would pay for that at some point.

"Bella, do you want to wear that dress on the airplane?" Alice was a little baffled that her usual tactics weren't working. She had no experience with this side of Bella.

"I don't get it," Emmett murmured to Jasper over by the house. "How do they get so worked up doing that?"

"I don't know," Jasper replied, uncomfortable. "But, believe me, they do." So glad Esme's building them a house...

Alice growled quietly. "I'll tell her where you're taking her, Edward. So help me, I will."

I froze.

I am dead serious.

I lifted my face from Bella's and glared at Alice. "You're awfully small to be so hugely irritating."

"I didn't pick out the perfect going-away dress to have it wasted," she snapped back, taking Bella's hand. "Come with me, Bella."

Bella leaned away from her hold, stretching up on her toes to kiss me one more time, but Alice jerked back. There were a few chuckles from the watching guests.

You need to change, too, Alice ordered as she dragged Bella into the house.

A few minutes later I watched Bella, fussed over by Alice and Renée, descend the stairs in dark heels with uncharacteristic grace. She looked breathtaking in a deep blue dress that accentuated her small waist and graceful curves. It was not so different than her graduation outfit - Alice had clearly noticed my preference - this one too revealed her shoulders while partial sleeves concealed much of her arms. Her hair, down now, wrapped around one shoulder in soft waves.

I heard Bella choke out a final goodbye to her mom before she took my outstretched hand at the bottom of the stairs. I felt better then. Bella in heels made me nervous, as alluring as she looked in them.

She leaned away, scanning the small crowd that was waiting to see us off.

"Dad?" She asked, her eyes searching.

"Over here," I murmured. I pulled her through the guests to the little section of wall Charlie leaned against.

It was hard to watch their tearful goodbye. Renée always said how much like Charlie Bella was and she wasn't wrong - they both loved so stubbornly. Losing Bella, his only child, would truly break him. I could only hope Sue would come to be to him what Phil was to Renée.

When Bella turned back to me, I shook off these more somber thoughts and reminded myself that today was about the best part of her decision. The part where we celebrated the beginning of forever.

The guests made another aisle for us and I pulled her tight against me as we made our escape.

"Are you ready?" I asked.

"I am," she said. Her chin was tilted up slightly and her teary eyes were sure.

Everyone cheered when I kissed her on the doorstep. I rushed her to the car as the rice storm began, protecting her the best I could from Emmett's precise aim.

Alice had turned my car into a gaudy nuisance, decorating it with streamers and shoes tied to ribbons. I opened the door for Bella and then I was in and we were speeding away. Bella called out a final farewell through the open window.

I could hear my family's relief. They were overjoyed that they'd married me off at long last. They were thrilled that they could keep Bella forever. And they were grateful Alice's reign of terror had finally come to an end.

With such a perfect happily ever after, it was easy to not think about the difficult parts still ahead.

I squeezed Bella's hand. "I love you," I said.

She leaned her head against my arm. "That's why we're here," she quoted me.

I smiled and kissed her dark, silky hair.

As soon as were on the highway, I really hit the accelerator, quickly breaking one-hundred. A piercing sound cut through the purr of the engine. A tortured and familiar howl. I wondered if Bella could hear it. Was that what caused her heart to jump, or was it my driving - the sudden acceleration, the cutting around other cars?

I didn't ask and the sound grew fainter until it was nothing at all. Forgotten.


A/N: Up next, Edward and Bella's first night on Isle Esme. :)

Thank you so much for the kind reviews. Someone asked if I might do an outtake of Edward and Bella's trip to Florida. I'm actually pretty set on making this After Midnight Sun story a volume 2 and doing a volume 1 that's New Moon - Mid-Eclipse, so yes! I definitely plan to do that part, too.