Chapter
Twenty Two
The End
So much had happened in the last twenty four hours. I had faced humanity after almost a year's exile and now I was only miles away from seeing my mother again. The quiet hum of the rental car was the only noise to be heard. I looked over at Edward. He seemed focused on the road, although he didn't need to be. He glanced over at me and smiled weakly. I had a bad feeling in the pit of my stomach that something was going to go terribly wrong.
I sighed and looked out at the scenery passing by. It was night time, and even through the heavily tinted windows of the rented Mercedes I could see the scenery floating by. The bright pole lights that lined the street illuminated every corner. I couldn't believe Renee was content living here. This didn't seem like the type of environment that she would be happy with.
My mind floated back to the airplane ride and how thick the scent of human had been. All clustered together and the body heat made it nearly unbearable. Landing at an airport at the edge of the city, we took a quick hunt for safe measure while Alice went to get the rental car. The city boasted a thick, rich aroma. The people were so concentrated and the scent even more so. So many flavors waited to be tried, but I couldn't think like that. I glanced over at Edward, I couldn't let him down. We had come so far, and I couldn't fail now. I couldn't.
I felt the car begin to slow, we were there. I looked up at the grey stone building, the burning in the back of my throat intensified almost immediately. Lots of human blood lurked here, so much tempting, luscious human blood. My thoughts were frenzied, it was all so overwhelming. A gentle hand touched me and I instantly calmed down. I looked back to see Jasper nodding in understanding as he removed his hand. This was just as hard for him. I pondered on how Carlisle was able to do what he did. Just being so close to so much of it was hard. I could only imagine how difficult it was for him to keep control while treating someone. It had to take a very special person. And Edward, I don't see how he could have stood to be around me for so long. The calling of the blood was so strong. It almost consumed my whole being.
I had to keep focused. I couldn't allow myself to get carried away like that. As hard as it was to be around all the scent, all the wonderful fragrance, I couldn't allow it to overhaul me again. I took a small breath, and then another, and before Edward had parked the car I felt alright. As hard as it was, as much as my throat was burning, I could not give in.
"Ready?" his musical voice broke my thoughts. I nodded and before I could move an inch, he was at the passenger's side opening the door for me. I smiled at him, still impressed by his valor. Many women would frown at such behavior, but I was happy that he was a gentleman. I'd trade independence any day for Edward. Besides, who wouldn't want a hot vampire waiting on them and taking care of them? I wasn't going to complain.
Taking his hand, he led the way. Alice and Jasper followed close by, and a thick sense of calm remained as we continued on.
As we walked through the main entrance, I was a little taken back by the thick smell of fresh blood. But, just as soon as it came, I focused on why I was here. How as Renee? Would the baby be ok? How would she take my new appearance?
Edward led the way up a set of stairs, the elevator was too risky. A human in that tight of space was pushing it especially after the airplane ride and the already overwhelming scent of human. Three flights seemed like nothing as we reached the third floor. Opening the big grey door of the third landing, the white walls and white tile of the seemingly sterile environment met us. What would have been considered immaculately clean to human eyes didn't seem so to my keen vision. I could see dust particles over almost every surface. The floor, while somewhat clean, was actually quite filthy. Was this place clean enough for my mom?
"Doesn't seem so clean does it?" Jasper laughed, picking up on my disgust.
"No," I admitted, as I followed Edward to the nurse's station. A gray headed friendly nurse met us with a warm smile.
"Hello, can I help you?" she asked as she studied our group.
"Yes, could you tell us what room Renee Dwyer was in?" Edward asked as he smiled, instantly dazzling the poor woman.
"Uh, yeah, just let me check," she said, coming out of somewhat of a stupor. She stepped over to an ancient looking PC and using the mouse she scrolled down what I presumed to be a list of patients on the floor.
"Room 304," she announced glancing back at us.
"Thanks," Edward replied smiling again. She nodded and we continued our journey past the station to the Labor and Delivery wing of the hospital. A few cries and moans could be heard from the far end of the hall, and I was glad that we wouldn't be near it. Renee's room was the second door on the right.
"Everything will be fine," Alice assured me as we stopped just short of the door. I nodded, still a little unsure. Alice had, however, never been wrong, and I wouldn't doubt her now.
"I'm here love, just trust me," Edward added as Jasper patted me on the shoulder, giving me wave after wave of calm. I sighed and took one step forward. It was then I caught sight of her. She looked extremely haggard and tired. Her eyes were half closed and her dark brown hair was limp on her shoulders. Phil was sitting in the chair next to the bed, facing the door and he caught sight of us first. He smiled and motioned for us to come in. Renee noticed his hand gesture and turned to see what the fuss was.
Her expression went from tired to excited in less than a millisecond it seemed.
"Bella!" she exclaimed, "You made it!"
"Yeah, you didn't think I'd miss this did you?" I laughed as I nervously strode forth, Edward and I hand in hand. Jasper and Alice remained by the door, not wanting to intrude.
"I didn't know if you'd be able to make it, but I'm happy you did,"
"Me too," I voiced honestly. I was happy see her again. I didn't realize how much I missed her until my eyes connected with hers. My memories were fading more and more as the days progressed and it was nice, this boost. Seeing her again reiterated all the times we had shared and I felt close to her again. As soon as I was happy however, I realized this was the last time I would have with her. It was time to say good bye.
"You have to see her Bella! She's gorgeous, she looks a lot like you," Renee boasted.
"She does," Phil added smiling brightly and patting Renee's hand.
"Go tell the nurses to bring her," Renee ordered Phil. He didn't protest, he got up and strode past us to the nurses station. I swallowed the pool of venom that had accumulated in my throat and took a few steps closer to her.
"I won't bite," she laughed, noticing the distance between us. I glanced at Edward through the corned of my eye. Catching me, he squeezed my hand that it would be ok. I released his hand and walked over to the side of her bed. While it was hard being so close to her, I didn't want to attack. A part of me felt connected to her. I knew that if I destroyed her a part of me would suffer as well.
"Edward, I'm a little disappointed in you, she's paler than before," Renee laughed as I stood beside her bed.
"Alaska doesn't offer much sun I'm afraid," he chuckled.
"Ah, but it must be nice with all the mountains and green," she sighed. I detected her longing then for a change in scenery. I knew she didn't care for the city.
"Yes," I interjected.
"You look different, you've grown up," she sighed, giving me a once over.
"Married life will do that to you," I lied. It was odd how easily lies came now. Though I was still no pro at the art, I was beginning to become somewhat believable.
"That it will," she agreed smiling warmly. She glanced at Edward now and smiled widely.
"You've changed as well," she voiced. I was shocked. I glanced over at him and he seemed just as taken back as I was.
"You look happier," she added clearing the fog. His crooked grin appeared followed by a smile of my own. My mom didn't miss much.
"Here we are," the elderly nurse from the front desk announced as she and Phil returned to the room with a small bundle with a head showcasing thick brown hair.
"Meet little Chrissie," Renee announced catching sight of her newest daughter.
"That's a cute name," I smiled, as the nurse handed Chrissie to my mom.
"It was my mother's name," Phil input as he took his seat next to Renee.
"It's nice,"
"Her full name is Christina Lynn," Renee sighed as she cooed at the baby.
"Lynn after grandma," I smiled. I had not met Renee's mom, but I had heard Renee speak of her in passing.
"Yes, we wanted her to be a legacy. I was going to name you Lynn Marie, but Charlie said that sounded too much like Lisa Marie and he didn't want you to be confused with Elvis's daughter," Renee laughed. Edward started to chuckle and despite my horror, I began to laugh as well. Knowing this bit of information made me more appreciative to be stuck with Isabella for the rest of eternity.
"I think Lynn goes well with Christina," I said, feeling a bit uncomfortable.
"Would you like to hold her?" she asked me, projecting my little sister out. Though I was sure I wouldn't bite her, I was afraid of her being so fragile and I so strong.
"I've been sick, I wouldn't want to give it to her," I rejected.
"Are you sure?" she asked.
"Yeah, I'm probably to close now," I replied taking a step back.
"Are you feeling ok?" she inquired.
"Yeah, I just wouldn't want to pass the bug to you and her,"
"Well another time then," Renee smiled. I swallowed hard and nodded, knowing it was a false promise.
"Edward, we better get to the hotel we have to check in," Alice called from the door.
"Alice is here?" Renee asked.
"Yeah, she and Jasper didn't want to intrude,"
"They wouldn't have been," Phil interrupted. Alice poked her head in and smiled.
"Thanks, but Jasper and I didn't want to take away from this moment. You're baby is beautiful though," Alice added.
"I didn't know that was you standing there, I would have invited you in," Phil laughed, running his fingers through his hair.
"It's alright. Jasper and I will be waiting in the car Edward,"
"Ok, we'll be right down," he answered and her head disappeared. A huge knot bunched in my stomach as I realized that this was it. This was the last time I would have with Renee.
"You have to go?" she asked sadly, looking at me with tear filled eyes.
"Yeah, we have to get some rest and head back, we have class," I reminded her.
"I guess that's right. I'm sorry if you missed any,"
"I didn't,"
"You won't come back before you leave?" she asked hopefully.
"No, we have a very early flight to catch," I lied. In fact, we were leaving tonight, we wouldn't be waiting to morning.
"Well, there's always next time to get caught up," Renee sighed.
"Yeah," I lied, the lump making it harder and harder to speak.
"I'm sorry we couldn't stay longer Renee," Edward added, stepping next to me and taking my hand.
"Me too. You'll have to bring her back," she said seriously with a hint of joking in her tone. He nodded and squeezed my hand.
"Hug me before you go?" she asked.
"The baby," I pointed out.
"Phil can hold her," she replied handing Phil the small pink bundle. I let go of Edward's hand and walked over to her bed. Gently and with grate awareness I bent down and hugged her with the least effort I could.
"I love you mom," I replied as I let go of her. Her thick scent filled my nostrils, but looking at her quickly pushed that aside. I would always be able to remember her now. Her thick brown hair, like my own, her big brown eyes, more curious than mine, but reminiscent of their old shade. Even her scent was etched upon my memory. I glanced over at Phil and baby Chrissie. He tilted her so I could have a better view. Her little eyes opened and I could see a pool of deep blue, just like Phil's. Her lips and nose were like Renee's, like mine used to be. I smiled despite the sadness of the impromptu goodbye and stood back from the hug and my mother.
"I love you both, be careful," she instructed in her not so often used parental tone.
"I love you too mom,"
"Phil," Edward addressed Phil nodding.
"Edward, take care of her for us," Phil replied. He never had tried to step up to the role of dad, but I was glad he had been in my life. He had made Renee happy and still did. Little Chrissie would be loved and he would be able to help Renee cope with my "death".
"Of course," Edward replied grinning.
"Bye mom, Phil,"
"Bye," the both echoed. Edward and I turned to leave. I felt my heart ripping in two as I realized this was the last time I would ever see my mom, sister, and even Phil.
"It will be ok," Edward whispered as we walked through the door. I heard Renee take Chrissie back from Phil and her cooing at my new sister, that I would never really know. I hoped she would grow up to have a happy life. I hope Renee was capable of taking care of her.
"I know," I sighed as we came to the stairwell. I could feel the nurses watching as we walked by, but I didn't care. I just wanted out of there. The dirty white floors and walls just felt like they were closing in on me. I wanted to stay with Renee and wanted to get to know Chrissie. But that couldn't and wouldn't happen. It was for the best.
We descended the stairs quickly and made our way out of the hospital through the main entrance. Quickly, we located the car and hopped in.
"Sorry Bella, but we had to get you out of there," Alice apologized as she sat next to Jasper.
"It's alright," I answered as my voice cracked. Sobs wracked my body as the realization of never seeing Renee again overtook me.
"Bella, love, it's alright,"
"I-I-I k-n-now," I stammered.
"You can still check up on them," Alice interrupted. Edward gave her a cold look through the rear view mirror and gripped the stirring wheel hard.
"No Alice, it's time to let go," I said with finality in my voice that shocked even me.
"I mean you could in a round about way check up on her. You know, pass through her neighborhood at night without actually going up to her," she replied clearing up her meaning.
"That would just make things more painful," I declined.
"Maybe, but you do have that option," she replied as she relaxed against the seat next to Jasper in silence. Edward started the car and we pulled away from the hospital and my mom.
"What did you mean you had to get me out of there?" I asked, realizing what she said.
"There is going to be a messy load of car crash victims coming through the hospital in about two minutes, it would have been too much for you,"
"And me," Jasper added. I nodded in understanding. I was glad she was there to foresee such things happening and glad Jasper was there to help with my rollercoaster ride of emotions. But, more than that, I was glad Edward was there. He was my rock, he kept me rooted. It was all worth it when he was there.
A week passed since the visit with Renee. I talked to her a few times over the phone and learned that Chrissie was a very well behaved child. She mainly just slept and was on a schedule already. Everything was going as well.
I was very depressed at first to have left her like that. I was sad that I wouldn't get to be in her life much longer. But I knew that she would always remember and love me and even if she didn't know it, I would always be there for her and love her. I even loved Chrissie, though I didn't know her. She was my little sister and I knew she would mean the world to Renee and Phil. They at least had her after I was gone.
But that brought me to Charlie. He didn't have anyone else. All he had in the world was me, and I was leaving him. I was making my trip to say goodbye. What will he do? How would he cope?
I glanced over at Edward as he drove past the "Welcome to Forks" sign. So many times had we passed the sign in my lifetime. It was odd how I always took it for granted before. I had hated here, had hated coming to see Charlie. Now I wanted nothing more than to stay and see him everyday. It's odd how we take so much for granted in life. I had taken a lot.
"Are you ok love?" Edward asked as we neared the driveway to his old house.
"Yeah,"
"Are you sure you want to do this?" he asked.
"Yeah," I replied again.
"You've given up so much for me," he said, his voice filled with pain.
"And I'd do it all over again. An existence without you Edward wouldn't have been any kind of existence," I reminded him as I took his hand in mine.
"I know. But I feel like I've gotten the better end of the deal love,"
"But I disagree. You've given me all I could ever wish for,"
"I'm taking you away from your parents," he almost shouted, obviously angry at himself.
"No, I decided that's what I want,"
"But you don't really want it,"
"I do,"
"You don't,"
"I do too. I know it's what's best. I couldn't live without you. I wouldn't have. At least this way they know I was happy in life,"
"That's absurd Bella," he shot back.
"And since when have I been normal?" I laughed. Despite the tense atmosphere, he laughed as well.
"You do have a point,"
"I resent that," I giggled as he pulled into our old drive way.
"You did call Jake right?" Edward asked as we raced through the drive of trees.
"Yes, he'll be waiting,"
"Rose and Emmett brought the truck down yesterday, it's in the garage," he said as the house came into view. The Rabbit sat waiting in front, Jacob leaning against it with whom I presumed to be Heather leaning against it next to him.
"I think he may have stopped growing," I laughed at his huge posture towering next to her's.
"I don't think so," Edward laughed as Jacob stood up straight, standing at nearly seven feet tall. Edward parked the car and we hopped out. Just as soon as my feet hit the ground Jacob was racing towards us.
"Bella!" he exclaimed as he stopped just in front of me.
"Jake!"
"How are you doing?"
"Good, and you?"
"I'm fine,"
"Bella," Heather said as she stepped forward. Her hair was a deeper shade of brown than my own. Her eyes were wide and a twinkling green. She was tan, unlike me, and tall for a girl.
"Heather," I smiled. Jacob rapped his huge arm around her small shoulders and pulled her close.
"Bella, I'd like you to meet the reason I live,"
"Nice to meet Jake's life," I laughed.
"Nice to meet Edward's," she giggled. Edward stepped to my side and took his hand in mine.
"Nice to see you again Jake, Heather," he said.
"Nice to see you," Heather smiled brightly. I could tell she was sweet. She was perfect for Jake.
"And this is the last time you'll be in Forks?" Jacob asked in an almost whiny tone.
"Yeah,"
"We can still meet up can't we?"
"No, I'm going to be to dead, remember," I pointed out.
"But no one has to know," he sighed. I looked at him with sad eyes. Of course I didn't want to cut him out of my life. But I couldn't chance him slipping and letting someone know I was still out there. It was best to sever the ties.
"Let it go, Jake," Heather told him, smiling sadly at the two of us.
"But," he started to whine.
"Jake, this is hard for her," she told him in a calm understanding tone. I was grateful for her being there. Jake would have her when I was gone. Everyone would have someone but Charlie. I worried more about him than anyone.
"Thanks Heather,"
"No problem," she smiled.
"I love you Bells, I wish it didn't have to end like this," Jake sighed.
"I love you too Jake, and I wish it didn't either,"
"It was nice meeting you Bella," Heather voiced, smiling a genuinely friendly smile.
"You too, take care of him for me," I sighed, knowing how irresponsible Jacob could be.
"Werewolf, remember?"
"Make sure he doesn't do anything stupid," I ignored him.
"Can't you do anything with her?" he asked Edward.
"No, she's too stubborn," Edward chuckled.
"I resent that," I pretended to pout.
"Don't worry, I'm in the same boat," Jacob laughed as he hugged Heather closer to him.
"Humph," she muttered, stiffening against him.
"You know I'm just kidding," he said, his voice almost frantic.
"Gotcha," she laughed. Edward and I laughed as well. It was nice seeing them together, seeing them as a couple.
"Well I guess you better go, Charlie's waiting on you," Jacob said.
"Be good Jacob,"
"Stay out of trouble Bella," he laughed.
"I'm trying,"
"Goodbye Jacob," Edward said, extending his hand.
"Bye bloodsucker," Jacob laughed shaking Edward's hand heartily.
"See if you can't do something about his fleas," Edward addressed Heather. Jacob's eyes narrowed, and then we all began to laugh.
"Bye Bells," Jacob said as he released Heather and held out his arms. I let go of Edward's hand and wrapped my arms around Jake's humongous frame. His warm arms wrapped around my frigid cold body and we said our last goodbyes.
"Bye Jake," I said. A few more goodbyes were said and then he and Heather left. I watched as the Rabbit sped away kicking up dust as it went. I leaned against Edward until the dust and car were out of sight.
"Are you ok?" he asked.
"Yeah, he's going to be fine, he's got Heather,"
"Are you ready to see Charlie?" he asked.
"Yeah, he's waiting," I replied. I looked back at the beautiful white house. So many memories were encased within those walls. So many times we had shared there. It was hard saying good bye to Forks, to Jake, and it was going to be extremely hard to say goodbye to Charlie. He had no one.
The small two story house came into view and I tensed in my chair. Charlie was within it's walls. He was waiting to see me. Little did he know this would be the last time he would get to see me. I slowly placed my foot against the brake pedal and slowed the truck to a halt against the curb. Edward pulled in behind me, parking the Volvo.
I had decided that I wanted to give the truck back to Charlie. I had the Audi and didn't really need two cars. I could run faster than either of them, for that matter. He wouldn't be police chief forever and would eventually need another mode of transportation. Edward stood behind my choice, telling me it was my decision. I could have kept the truck, but I knew it belonged here with Charlie.
I was about to open the door when Edward opened it for me.
"You can do this," he reassured me as he took my hand. I smiled and taking the keys from the ignition, I stepped out of the truck. He closed the door and we walked up the small drive, past the old police cruiser, to the front porch. Before we could knock, it was jerked open by Charlie.
"Bells!" he exclaimed as he pulled me into a brief hug. I was a bit taken back, but I was ok. His scent wasn't enticing to me. Again, it felt as if I destroyed him, I'd be in turn destroying a part of myself.
"Dad," I laughed.
"How's it going?" he asked taking a step back to look at us.
"Fine," I mentioned, looking around the porch. He had yet to invite us in.
"Don't just stand there," he laughed as he moved back to let us enter. I had never seen him so happy before in my life. From the kitchen I heard a clamor and realized someone or something was here. Maybe he had a rodent problem?
"What was that?" I asked stopping inside the door as he closed it.
"Sue," he answered. I looked at him in confusion. What was Sue doing in the kitchen?
"Yes?" she called out as she came into view. Her dark hair was pulled into a back into a ponytail and she was wearing a bright, crisp, white apron.
"Sue, what a surprise," I voiced, for lack of better words. Why was she at Charlie's?
"Hey Bella, good to see you again," she voiced, I detected a hint of reserve in her voice. But, I knew why. She knew what we were. She knew what we were capable of.
"Good to see you too. How are Leah and Seth?" I asked.
"They're fine, going to school," she replied.
"Let's go to the living room," Charlie interrupted. We followed him into the living room. It was much like I remembered it, but I noticed changes. A new turquoise throw was across the back of the couch. Two cream colored pillows inhabited it's corners. It seemed much more tidy than it ever had been. There was a sweet cinnamon like smell present in the atmosphere. Something was definitely different, and it just wasn't the house.
Charlie looked changed as well. His usually messy mop of curly brown hair seemed combed and somewhat in place. His shirt was pressed, no wrinkles in sight. He was happy. I noticed the pictures of my mom were also gone, replaced by pictures of me from the wedding. He had moved on. I looked over at Sue and saw her watching Charlie. They were a couple.
"How has the crime rate in town been?" Edward asked, breaking the weird silence that had come between us.
"Oh you know, they keep me on my toes," Charlie laughed.
"I tried your grandma's recipe for stroganoff, Bella. Charlie says it's good, but your's is the best," she complimented.
"I add a little more garlic powder," I told her. It had been a long time since I had cooked, I sort of missed it. It was one of the few things as a human that I could do well.
"I'll keep that in mind," she replied.
"Sue is going to fix some dinner, would you like to stay?" Charlie asked hopeful.
"I really wish we could sir, but we have to get back," Edward answered for me.
"Oh, what's the hurry?" he asked.
"They have things to do Charlie. You know they have classes," Sue answered for us. I smiled in relief, glad she was making things easier for us. In a way it was good she knew about us. If not, our leaving could have offended her.
"Yeah, I forget. It's just been such a long time kiddo," Charlie sighed.
"I know dad,"
"You've really grown up,"
"You've changed quite a bit yourself," I laughed.
"Gotten fatter," he chuckled patting his stomach.
"He only says that cause I've been keeping him fed," Sue said.
"I'm not complaining," he added smiling brightly up at her. I had not expected him to get involved with anyone else. I thought he was still way to hung up on Renee. But, I had to admit I was happy. I no longer had to worry about him being alone. Sue would be there to help him through. I couldn't ask for anything more.
We stayed for an hour longer, talking and getting somewhat caught up. Sue had been coming over Charlie's regularly for a couple months now and she was planning on moving in. He was happier than I had ever seen him, and she took care of him well.
As we were about to leave, I pulled out the old truck key and handed it to him.
"What's this?" he asked taken back.
"The key to the truck,"
"What truck?" he asked confused.
"The one you bought for me when I came to Forks," I answered as we stood by the door. Sue was in the kitchen fixing Charlie dinner, while Edward and I were taking our leave.
"That's your's kiddo, I couldn't take it," he said, trying to give me back the key.
"Really dad, it's alright. I have another car," I told him.
"Yeah, but it's your's, I couldn't take it from you,"
"I'm giving it to you dad. You may want to retire one day and then what?" I replied, keeping my ground.
"I'll get a car," he answered still holding out the key. I had inherited my stubbornness from him.
"Dad, the truck's yours. I have more than enough transportation already. Please, it will only sit," I said, keeping my ground.
"But you might need it some day," he sighed, fiddling with the key.
"Trust me sir, she won't need it," Edward added.
"Call me Charlie please," Charlie laughed.
"Charlie, we have more than enough cars. She wants you to have it. I had nothing to do with it," Edward told him seriously.
"Are you sure?" he asked, looking at me with sad eyes.
"I'm positive. You might want to take Sue out in it some time. It would be less conspicuous than the cruiser," I answered. I also received my shyness from him. I could tell he liked the thought of going out without being so obvious.
"If you ever want it, you know where it is," he said, pocketing the key.
"Just take care of it. Rosalie fixed it up, it runs better than new," I replied, happy that he had accepted.
"You don't say?" he asked.
"You didn't hear me approach did you?"
"No, I didn't," he replied thoughtfully.
"Take it for a spin with Sue later, you'll be amazed," Edward added.
"That sounds like a good idea,"
"Well, I guess we have to be going," I sighed, not exactly ready to go, but knowing by the scent coming from the kitchen that his dinner was almost ready.
"Stay around," Charlie pled.
"Wish I could dad, but we need to get back for classes," I lied.
"Well, don't be a stranger," he sighed, running his hand through his hair, messing it up slightly.
"We won't," I answered, lying once again. I felt guilty promising him something I could never keep.
"Bye Bells," he said as we opened the door to go out. I was on the porch before I turned around. Charlie stood there looking sad and quite awkward. I felt as backwards as he did, but I wouldn't let this opportunity slip by. I let go of Edward's hand and closed the distance between us. I hugged him very gently and he returned it as well.
"You're cold," he said as he let go.
"It's a little chilly," I replied.
"Yeah, you better get a coat on," he instructed.
"It will be warm in the car," I replied. He shrugged his shoulders and I took a step back.
"Bye dad," I said as I took Edward's hand in mine.
"Bye Bells," he replied. I turned and Edward and I walked to the Volvo. I passed the old red truck, now renovated to look new, and said my silent goodbyes to it. Though loud and bulbous, it had been a big part of my life in Forks. It was something special to me, something Charlie had given me. But it belonged with him. He needed it. I looked back at my old house and Charlie as Edward held the door open for me. I waved my goodbyes to both and got into the passenger side of the car. It was time to say goodbye to Forks and goodbye to Charlie. It was time.
We boarded the plane and took our seats. Carlisle took the pilots position while all of us, excluding Alice and Jasper, took the passenger seats. I sat next to Edward, and holding hands we took off.
It had been a month since my goodbye to Charlie, and it was now time to die. It was decided that Edward and I was going to die in a plane crash going on a second honey moon to the Bahamas. Carlisle, Esme, and the rest of the gang were joining us, but had taken another flight. Every detail had been planned out to the T. All of our identities had changed. I was no longer Isabella Marie Cullen, but Isabella Marie Masen. Carlisle and Esme and also taken this name as well as Alice and Emmett. Rosalie and Jasper had changed their last names to Whitlock, a nice break from Hale for Jasper.
Jasper and Alice were piloting a second plane that Carlisle owned, and were going to crash it over a strip of land in Canada. There would be no evidence. Alice had foreseen that it would work. It would be broadcasted that Edward and I were dead. Esme, Carlisle, and the rest of the family would be moving out of the country because of their grief for Edward and I. Eventually they would be untraceable. Alice and Jasper would meet us at our destination, our new home, Ireland. I was sad to let go of my past, but I knew everything would work out. Everything was going to be fine. Charlie and Renee would cope, and get through my death. Jacob would be alright. Everyone was going to be ok.
I had decided, and upon talking to Edward, that we would leave a substantial amount of money to Chrissie for a college fund. She deserved at least that much from me. I would never get to know her, but I would be giving her a head start in life. That I could at least give.
I sighed in my seat next to Edward. It all seemed so easy and yet it hurt so bad. I missed them all so much already. I'd never hear their voices again. They'd never again be apart of my life. Edward squeezed my hand and I met his golden gaze. All that was plaguing me meant not. For I had him, and he was my life. Without him, there would be no reason for me to exist.
I smiled sadly and glanced around the plane. I had the rest of the family too. I had a mother in Esme, a father in Carlisle, two sisters, and two brothers. I had more than I could ever ask for. I had more than anyone could ever want. I was grateful then. Esme smiled back at me in an understanding way, and grabbed Carlisle's hand as we flew over the ocean. I had a family and the love of my life with me, and would have them for forever. That was more than enough to be grateful for.
We would be starting a new life in Ireland. We would have a happy existence, no more problems, no more Volturri, and no more life threatening instances. We could travel the world and see every amazing sight there was to see, even if it had to be by night. I smiled despite the earlier sadness I was experiencing, I had it all. I had Edward Cullen, or now Edward Masen, the love of my life, no, existence. I glanced over at him and was met by his heart melting crooked grin. That would never get old to me. For as long as eternity lasted, I would never tire of looking at him, exploring his features. And now we would live for forever, this time hopefully uninterrupted.
(Beta Note: I'm very sad to see this series end, as well as "In the Arms of an Angel". I have the opportunity to beta other future stories from TwilightFan4Life and they are awesome as of now. Check them out! –Shanbug07)
(A/N: Well it's been a very long, longer than had expected actually, and fun journey. I hope all my readers were satisfied with this ending. I will not be continuing this series, I think Edward and Bella, at least in this saga, should live out the rest of their existence happily and blissfully uninterrupted. They deserve a happy ever after. I will continue with other stories, I'm not giving up fanfiction this easily. I have other projects in the works, keep a look out for them. I have decided to put "In the Arms of an Angel" on permanent hiatus. The muse for this story has left me, and I find myself unable to continue, I apologize. If in the future, said muse does return, I will happily complete the story. But back to the real issue, I really want to thank all of my loyal readers. You all have pushed and with your comments and reviews have helped me to complete this piece. I'm ecstatic to have received over 300 reviews, I didn't ever imagine doing that well. Thank you all for standing by me, and I really hope that I have fulfilled all your expectations for this story. Also, I couldn't complete this without mentioning my superstar beta Shanbug07, thanks for all of your help and encouragement, you are a real friend! This piece is dedicated to you and all your hard work! I couldn't thank you enough! Also thanks to my beta xedwardxloverx, you've been a big help as well. Sadly, this is the end of this story. I hope you all will continue to read fanfiction and maybe even some of my new pieces. Keep an eye out for them.)