Disclaimer: The wonderful and talented Stephenie Meyer created these characters, made them into vampires, shape shifters and quirky teenagers. I changed them up, aged them, made them all human and I like it when they get citrusy. The names of the characters are hers, but the story line, and location it takes place is all me.
Sending out a special thanks and lots of praise to my wonderful Beta, Cullen Confection. Thanks out also to two of my favorite authors, who also pre-read for me: Jess2002, and butterflybetty, you two ladies rock and roll.
Be sure to read the authors note at the end.
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Chapter 18: Out with the Old, In With the New
BPOV
"Thank you, Esme, for picking up all the stuff for me. I am glad you were able to get all of the last minute gifts I had picked out. I saw that you wrapped them, thank you; you didn't have to do that much for me. Did you have any issues at the travel agency? And, are you sure that you and Victoria can handle running Edward's business, while we are away?" I ask, feeling like I have taken advantage of Esme's kindness.
"Of course dear, I did not mind picking things up for you. I enjoy doing things for all my children. You do know that I think of you as a daughter?" She states questioningly, hugging me close. "That Beverly was very nice, and she said everything you needed was in the folder. Edward has very competent employees, and has taken a backseat lately anyhow. With everything that has been going on, he has already hired three other people. I will be more than capable of handling any problems that arise. I can always call if I have questions, but James can always help too. As for wrapping the gifts, I just love wrapping gifts."
"Esme, I am grateful that you were able to pick up all of the paperwork for the trip today. Peter told me he had everything set, we just had to stop and meet with Beverly to pick up all the documents. I really hope that Edward enjoys the trip to France."
"I am sure that Edward will be fit to be tied, over the vacation and all the plans you have made," Charlotte says.
Only I get the innuendo that Charlotte's words imply. I give Charlotte a glare, as I get out the tea for the kettle I started.
The trip will be a fantastic, and a much needed get away for Edward and me. While we are away, Charlotte and Peter are going to be setting up our temporary home. Peter and Charlotte own quite a few properties throughout the Cedar Rapids area. We will be moving into the home that Peter and Charlotte lived in before they had their current estate built. Lucky for us, Rose and Emmett, who have been renting it for the past five years, decide to build their own home. Since they are in the lifestyle, we will be set up perfectly there.
We will have a full playroom, and will not have a lot of changes that need to be made. That is a nice thing. I also have been to Rose and Emmett's home a couple times, for some meetings and dinners they hosted. Rose has great taste, and I love the way she has it all decorated. Esme offers to help Charlotte get it all ready for us to move into.
"So, I know you leave in a few days, but I do not know the exact dates. When will you return from Paris?" Esme asks.
"We will leave on next Tuesday the twenty-eighth, and will not return until the nineteenth of January. That is why I asked if you were sure about handling things at his business."
"Wow, dear, that is a nice long vacation. I am glad you and Edward are doing this, and everything will be just wonderful. After all this stress, you both deserve to unwind."
Esme side arm hugs me and keeps putting away all the leftover desserts.
"Yes, you are right, Esme, Bella does need to unwind. I am sure that Edward has felt rather restrained lately, too."
I glare at Charlotte, letting her know that I am not taking kindly to her play on words. Esme has her back to us, placing the leftover desserts in the fridge. I give Charlotte my best bitch brow, but then smirk. I know my next words will get her attention.
"Charlotte, I agree," I say sweetly. "Edward has been tied up in stress, but he tends to channel his restraint well. I think this vacation is exactly what we need, to relax and let go. Charlotte, I know that Peter would love to hear more about your perception and concerns about all this stress. Maybe you could talk to him about being tied up in stress, and channeling of restraints, and see if he can enlighten you on some procedures or ideas to help. Doesn't that sound like a good idea?" I ask, with a coy smile.
"That is a wonderful idea, Bella. You all have been suffering the stress of this situation. Charlotte, you should also talk to Carlisle, too. I know he has a lot of ideas that could help as well. I am sure all four of you have felt restrained by the things going on," Esme says.
I have to bite my tongue as I choke back my laughter. The kettle on the stove whistles and I turn to the stove. Charlotte moves to stand to my side and when I glance at her, she lowers her eyes, and mouths she is sorry to me. I may be her best friend, but blatant disrespect of a Domme by a submissive is not taken lightly. That rule is especially true for Master Peter, and she knows it. I have never pulled the Domme card on her before, but she is pushing my boundaries and limits right now. She may only be lightly teasing, but being ousted to Edward's family is not high on my list of things to do for Christmas. I can just imagine that conversation. Carlisle, Esme, just so you know, I really enjoy making your son kneel before me and kiss my feet. I tie up Edward and beat his ass, and sometimes I fuck his ass with my dildo. I especially love it when I sit on his face and fuck his tongue. All of this is not a conversation I choose to have with his parents, Christmas or not. Charlotte knows that Esme wouldn't get it, but still discretion is a huge part of the lifestyle, and frankly she more than knows better.
"Well, ladies, how about we go and sit at the table and talk about the rest of the Christmas and after Christmas plans?" I ask them, as I grab the tea tray I just set up.
We sit at the table for a little over an hour finishing up a few things. Esme has already wrapped all the gifts for me that she picked up. I am glad that Jacob was able to bring the items we already had in the SUV. Thankfully all of the items are not damaged. We discuss all of the things that Katie is getting from us, and Esme just knows that the gift from Edward and I will be her favorite. We are all going to Carlisle and Esme's house tomorrow night, staying there for the night. We will all be there to have our Christmas morning with the whole family. We make a few choices for the temporary home Edward and I would be living in, when we return from France.
The house is large enough to house almost all of the furniture that Edward has, and the few things of mine that are not destroyed. Edward's stuff will look wonderful with the décor, so there are very minimal changes to be made. I know we can't ask for better landlords, not only are they in the lifestyle, but they are our best friends, too.
Edward and I have finalized most of our decisions on the house we are having built. We even sit with Esme and pick out all of the different appliances and furniture. I know that she will do an amazing job decorating our new home. We have picked out the wood flooring, wallpaper, paint, and everything. Since the windows we want for the new house are not common, Edward assures me that they are already ordered from Pella.
Edward and I talk a lot about where we want to build at. I want to remain in my community, I love it there. Since everything happened, the security company has changed a bunch of their protocols. With Mike no longer an issue, there is no clear threat any longer anyway. Edward and I agree that we will start to build on my land. The house will still face the same way, but will be located back farther than my old house. I am glad to have settled on all the designs. The house will be magnificent.
"Hello, ladies," Edward says, as he strolls into the kitchen.
"I was just coming in to get Bella. Dad would like to take a look at you before we all head off to bed."
"Okay, we will clean this up, and I will be right out," I say.
"Bella, go ahead and see Carlisle, Charlotte and I will clean this mess. Edward, please let your father know that I will be up shortly," Esme says.
"Of course, mom, goodnight," Edward says while leaning over to kiss her cheek. "Goodnight, Charlotte," Edward says.
"Goodnight, girls, I am off to be checked over, than go to bed. See you both in the morning," I say.
I hug both my friend and Edward's mom, and then follow Edward out the door. We walk hand and hand to the living room. Carlisle asks me about my headache and checks my blood pressure. He suggests I take some Tylenol and get some rest. Edward and I head off to bed, after bidding both Carlisle and Peter goodnight.
"I love you, Bella," Edward says as we enter our room.
"I love you, too," I say as I stroke the back of his neck with my nails. "I would love it if you would join me in the shower, my love."
"I would love to shower with you again, are you sure you are okay, Bella?"
"Yes, honey, I am feeling great. I have no headache at all, I feel as if the burden of all the stress we have been under is gone. I have never felt this free, euphoric, content, happy, loved…"
Edward interrupts my words by smashing his lips against mine. Deepening the kiss, I thread my fingers through his hair. I am tugging on his hair to pull his mouth closer to mine. I moan into his mouth as he sucks my bottom lip into his mouth.
"Bella, I really need you. Please let me make love to you."
"Yes, Edward, take me. Make love to me," I say against his lips.
Shutting the door all the way behind us, Edward turns and picks me up bridal style. Moving across the room, he gently lowers me to my feet, next to the bed. He slowly unbuttons my clothing, and slips it off of me, all while ravishing my mouth. We are both naked now, and I am not even sure how he removed his own clothes. Moving his mouth to my neck, he is placing love bite kisses along my collar bone. I keep my hands in his hair, pulling his face closer, showing him when I need more. Nothing about this is a fight to be in charge, this is about the adoration and devotion of desire in each other. I fall back onto the bed, pulling his body on top of mine. As he continues to ravage my mouth, my body responds. I wrap my legs around his hips, hooking my feet together.
"I can't wait to hear you moaning out in pleasure as I slip into your tight, wet heat. Are you ready for me, baby?" Edward growls out against my neck, right below my left ear.
"Yes, I am wet for you, always ready for you. Oh, Please Edward, I need you. Now," the sound of need is clear in my voice.
Slowly we join together, and the feelings are so intense. Before you know it, we are both moving our hips together in a fast and urgent rhythm. The desire is almost boiling through my veins. I can tell Edward feels the same way. The moans and grunts he is making causes the spring to wind tighter inside me. I feel as if I am going to burst, and I know that he is close too. With my right fingers threading through his hair, pulling his lips to my neck, I scratch down his back with my left.
"Baby, now, please now. I…I need to feel you. I…need you…to…to cum all…around my…my cock," Edward pants out.
With just four more strokes, we are both falling over into the blissful ecstasy of our combined climaxes. Still panting and inside me, Edward rolls to his side taking me with him.
"I have never felt this with anyone else. I love you so much, Bella."
"Edward, you complete me. I am happy that in less than two days we will spend the first of many Christmases together," I say, with a kiss.
"Do you mean that, Bella?"
"Do I mean what, Edward?"
"You not only want, but plan to spend many more holidays with me?"
"Well, I only mentioned Christmas, but yes, I mean exactly that. I want to be with you. I love you, and I want you in all aspects of my life. I want you as my submissive, and you are already my soul mate."
Before saying anything in response, Edward kisses me deeply, and runs his fingers along my cheek. I can feel more than just his need and desire when he is touching me like this.
"We should sleep, my love. We have a rather busy day ahead of us," I say with a sigh.
Christmas Eve morning dawns, and I slip out of bed and into the shower. I quickly go through my morning routine and get dressed. Making my way to the kitchen, I can smell the fresh coffee. Charlotte has always been an early riser; however, I am normally up before her. Walking into the kitchen, I see Esme sitting at the kitchen table.
"Good morning, Esme," I say with a smile.
"Good morning, Bella dear. Did you sleep well?"
"I slept very well, thank you. Were you and Carlisle comfortable?"
"You worry too much. I can hear it in your voice. We are both perfectly fine, and you need to understand something. Carlisle and I, both see you as a part of our family. One thing about us Cullens, we will always be there to help and take care of our family."
"Thank you, Esme, it means more than you know to hear you say that."
I pour myself a cup of coffee, and see there is already something cooking in the oven. The smells are delicious and my stomach is growling.
"What did you make, Esme?"
"There are fresh cinnamon rolls on the counter, and I also made some biscuits. I have some egg bake and sausage gravy in the warming oven. The last tray of cinnamon rolls is in the oven right now."
"What time did you get up?"
"Oh dear, most of this I prepped last night, and I only have been awake about an hour. Now, come over here and sit down and talk to me."
I move over to the table, with my cup of coffee. Sitting with Esme, and drinking coffee, reading the paper is a lovely way to start the day.
"Bella, can I ask you a few questions?" Esme asks me.
"Yes, of course," I reply.
"Edward told me that you do not have any family. I do not want to cause you pain, but do you really have no family, or are you just not close to any of your kin?"
"You could not cause me pain by asking a question. I am all alone in this world in regards to having a family. My mother and her parents died when I was just a newborn baby, and my father was killed in the line of duty right before I left for college."
"Oh, dear, I am so sorry. You do know that you have family now?"
"Of course, I do. I have had Charlotte and Peter, for several years, they are my family."
"Well, yes of course, dear, but I meant us. Carlisle and I both think of you as another one of our children. We both see the change in Edward, and see how much more alive he is. We only have you to thank for the return of the fun loving boy we lost so long ago. Well, I guess he is no longer a boy, but he has been a very sullen and sad man for a long time. You have given him the spark he needed to live a full happy life. We do love you," Esme says.
With a tear on my cheek, I get up and move to her and hug her. Silently thanking her for the love she and Carlisle give to me. Within a few minutes, everyone makes their appearance in the kitchen. Esme quickly frosts the fresh cinnamon rolls, and Charlotte and I help her move all the food to the table. Carlisle checks me and Peter both over after breakfast and heads out to finish his to do list for the day. Esme has her car and is ready to go back home. Since James and Victoria are already at her house, she offers to take a bunch of our packages over for us. After Edward loads her car up, I am shocked to see that there is still quite a lot that we have to take.
"Where in the world did all of these presents come from?" I ask Charlotte.
"Well, you are an online shopaholic, in case you were not aware of that."
"Almost all of the gifts that Edward and I bought went with Esme, or were sent to Esme's already gift wrapped."
"Not even close, honey. The only gifts Esme took with her were the ones she picked up yesterday, and the ones Edward had hidden in the utility room."
"Edward had hidden gifts in the utility room?"
"I guess you will have to ask him," she says, beating a fast retreat out of the room.
An hour later, Peter and Edward have already left to haul the rest of the presents. Charlotte and I are driving separately, to stop by a few last minute places. After talking last night, we decide that there were a few things we still need to buy. Thank goodness a few of the stores were having holiday hours today and would be open until five. After the two of us left a note for the guys and pack our overnight bags, we head out. First stop is Kohl's. I have to grab a few things for Edward and I for the trip. After picking out a rather nice set of new luggage for us, Charlotte and I go crazy buying things to fill the bags. Next stop is Best Buy, and we also quickly hit the mall to grab a few things that we cannot find at Kohl's. Charlotte tells me that she will pack up the suitcases for me when we get to Esme's. Knowing how sneaky she is, I trust that she will manage to do it, without Edward having a clue.
The last stop of the day, before heading to Esme's, is at Bed, Bath and Beyond. I pick out several of the bamboo sheet sets; and all our new towels for when we return from vacation. While getting ready to leave, I see a beautiful quilt that makes me think of Esme. Grabbing it, I know that this will be a gift she will cherish. The entire thing is made of quilt blocks. The border is made of cross stitched patterns of pink, purple, and yellow tea roses. The center block has the same tea roses, but there in the center is a quote: 'Biology is the least of what makes someone a mother.'
Walking to the car, Charlotte touches my shoulder.
"You finally feel like you know what a mother's love is, don't you?" Charlotte asks.
"Yes, it is such a strange feeling. I feel like I could do or say anything and she would still love me. It is kind of surreal to finally feel this at forty-one."
"It makes me sad to know that you never had that before, but I am so happy that you have it now."
I nod, trying to keep my emotions in check. I know that Charlotte understands. I have always been fortunate to have her as a true friend. I know that no matter what, Charlotte will always be my friend.
The night surrounded by Edward's family and our friends, is amazing. We have a wonderful dinner, and sit around singing Christmas carols. It is only ten when we all go off to our rooms for bed. I am really happy to finally have some alone time with Edward.
"Edward, there are a couple of things I would like to discuss with you."
"What is on your mind, honey?"
With a giggle, I say, "Honey?"
"I could not help myself. All night long I have wanted to run my fingers through your hair. The way the lights were reflecting off of it downstairs. You have all of this beautiful dark mahogany hair, and you have these wonderful low lights of red, but you also have these strands of highlights that remind me of streaks of honey. Those streaks of honey kept catching my eye downstairs."
"Edward, you are such a romantic guy. I love how you seem to notice and memorize me."
"Bella, I do my best to commit everything about you, and every minute with you, to memory."
I know we need to talk, but I have to kiss him now. I fist my left hand into the front of his shirt and stroke his cheek with my right, as I attach my mouth to his. With his hands on my hips and my legs now straddling his, our kisses take flight. Pulling back in order to catch our breaths, we separate our bodies and I sit beside him.
"I will never tire of that," I say.
"Those words; make me the happiest man on earth."
"Well, before you proclaim yourself the happiest man on earth, can we talk?" I ask in a more serious tone.
Seeing the doubt cross his face, I cup his cheek and stroke his lips with the pad of my thumb.
"Hey, look at me," I say. "No worries, okay?"
"Okay," he replies.
"The other night, when we were talking, you said something about our future together. You mentioned me being your wife, and I know you saw the instant fear I felt. I want you to know that I never believed in a future together with any man. I have done a lot of soul searching over the past month, and I have come to the conclusion that I do not see myself in the future, without you. With that being said, I need you to know a few things. If there ever comes a day that you decide that you want to propose, you will first need to speak to Peter. Peter has something that belongs to me, but I have never worn. The only way I will ever wear it, is if the right man gives it to me. I am not asking you to propose, and I am not expecting you to ever propose. I just need you to know, that should that day ever come, and you decide to propose, Peter has my ring. Peter has possession of the wedding set my parents used when they were engaged and married. The wedding set was passed to my father from his grandmother upon her death. I just wanted you to know my wishes, for the future."
"Thank you for telling me about this, Bella. When the day comes that I ask you to marry me, I will proudly present you with the ring that your mother wore."
I smile, and nod my head. "I have never felt that those rings would come to use. A couple of years ago, I had several of my eggs frozen so that I could have a child; my intent was so I could pass these rings to my child to pass to the one they loved. I really never thought love was out there for me."
"You…you have eggs frozen?" Edward asks, with an astonished look on his face.
"Yeah, I always wanted to have a child, but wasn't ready. The doctor suggested that I have some eggs frozen while I was younger. I had eggs harvested and frozen twice a year for six years, before I turned forty. The doctor says there is no clear picture on how long the eggs will be viable, but it is worth a shot. I had decided to wait to have a child until I was more established and settled. I am not sure why I never followed through."
"Where were you going to get sperm, they are not already fertilized are they?" Edward asks with a strange look on his face.
"I thought about the sperm bank, however, I never followed through. All of my eggs are stored frozen and unfertilized."
"Bella, the one and only part of my life that I have always regretted, was not having a child. Do you think…would you ever…can I be the father of your child?"
"Edward, nothing in this world could make me happier than to share that bond of a child with you. We can look for a surrogate after the first of the year, if you really want this. I want to be a mother, while I am young enough to enjoy being a mother. I never realized just how much I wanted to be a mom, until I spent time with Katie."
"Why would we use a surrogate? Are you not able to carry a child? Is there something wrong?" Edward asks, all three questions quickly, almost panicky.
"Well, I would want to increase our chances as much as we can. So I would want to hire a surrogate, have the eggs fertilized, and implanted via in vitro fertilization. I would also go through the process at the same time. Best case scenario we get at least two healthy babies, worst case scenario we get no baby, but our odds would be better to have a child. If you are serious, this is the way I would want to do it."
"I would love to be a father, especially the father of your child. There is only thing one thing I want more than to be a father."
"What is that, Edward?"
"I want you, forever. If we add a child to that, it will just be a bonus to being with you forever."
"You already have me forever, and I would love to be the mother of your child."
EPOV
My mind has been busy all night, going over all the things we talked about before bed. I know I need to speak to Peter, and the sooner I do the better. It is almost five in the morning as I slip out of bed. I head down to the guest room I know Peter and Charlotte are using. I lightly tap on the door, knowing Peter is a light sleeper. I hope he hears me.
"I was wondering how long it would be, before you came to see me," Peter says, after opening the door.
"Can we talk?" I ask.
"Yeah, how about we go to the kitchen so as not to disturb Charlotte?"
I nod in agreement, and we head downstairs. I grab us each a cup, and start a pot of coffee.
"I have not slept all night, Peter. My mind is racing and I…"
I stopped talking mid-sentence, when Peter raised his hand.
"You know, Edward, Bella only told you about the ring because she did not want you to buy a ring."
"Peter, I cannot live without her. I want her as my wife, and I want everything with her."
"Then what has your mind going and is causing you to not sleep?" Peter asks me.
"Is it too soon? I mean, won't it seem odd, we have never really dated. This…this, oh hell, this relationship, was not supposed to be, but look at me…I am a complete mess without her. I go half mad, at the thought of not being with her. I want it all with her, Peter. I guess I am scared that I will not be enough."
"Edward, no one can ever complete Bella the way that you do. You not only give her your whole heart unconditionally, but you also submit to her your entire person, and entrust in her your complete loyalty. She could never have stopped being a Domme at my command for anyone else. Don't you see, Edward? For Bella you are it, there is no other. Before you two worked out your being together, both in and out of the lifestyle, Bella took these to a jeweler to have them cleaned."
I glance at the box in Peter's hand, and then back into his eyes.
"Is that the ring?" I ask, in a quiet tone.
"Yes, Edward. This is the whole wedding set. Bella had the rings cleaned and sized, and she may think she was unsure of how things would go, but I think you should read the engraving inside the bands."
Peter hands me the box and I open the lid. The rings are beautiful. It's either white gold or platinum. The engagement ring has a large princess cut stone and is surrounded by two smaller emerald cut diamonds. The bands both have emerald cut diamonds laid into the top. I pick up the woman's wedding band and see that it has engraving inside. Tilting the ring to read the inscription, I gasp out loud. Inside was, 'C&R 1967' and 'E&B 20 ', the only thing we need to do is put in the last two digits of the year. I start to grab for the other band and Peter places his hand on my arm.
"Edward, they are both engraved the same way. She knew, she had these at the jeweler the day after your return from Chicago."
I am in shock, but deep down a part of me knows when I met her, that she is it for me. I guess she knows it too.
"Peter, I want you to keep the wedding bands, but I am taking the engagement ring."
"I knew that you would say that, here is a ring box to carry it in until you propose. Now, don't you think you are forgetting one small, yet extremely important task?"
"Yes, sir, I am. May I please have your blessing to ask Isabella to be my wife? She means more to me, than my own life. I assure you that I will go to every length to love, honor, protect, and serve her until the day I die."
"Edward, you have always had my blessing. Not to mention, I am sure that you have heard Bella or I say not to bet against Charlotte."
"Yeah, I have heard that, but why does that matter in this?"
"Well, because Charlotte had you and Bella being married off before you met," Peter says with a laugh.
The clock chimes, glancing at the time I see it is 6:30. I get up, and my mother walks in the kitchen.
"What are you boys doing up so early? Are you both that excited to open Christmas gifts?" Mom asks us, with a big smile on her face.
"I am," Katie squeals, running into the kitchen. "Come on, Uncle Edward, help me wake everyone up. The sooner we eat, the sooner I get to open gifts."
"I'll tell you what Katie. You go wake up grandpa, and have him help you wake up your parents and your aunt and uncle. I will start breakfast, and Edward and Peter will go wake up Bella and Charlotte. Now run along," my mom tells Katie.
We all leave the kitchen and head off to wake everyone up. I feel so much better now. I did not really have any doubts, but I am a little afraid of rushing Bella. With the ring in my pocket, I know that I will propose to her soon. I walk to the bed, where she is sleeping, and lightly kiss her until she wakes up.
"Good morning, my love. Katie would like it if we could hurry and eat so she can open her gifts. I promised I would wake you."
"You can wake me like that anytime you want. I love you, Merry Christmas, my love"
"Merry Christmas, baby," I say kissing her full on the mouth.
We head off to the shower quickly and get dressed. After joining everyone for breakfast, we make our way into the living room. I do not ever remember seeing that many gifts under the tree before. I am just in awe of all of the gifts. My parents say that Garrett, James and I will be Santa's helpers this year and pass out gifts, so we get to work. Dad stands up and says that Katie has to open all her gifts first, and the rest of us can open ours together.
We all watch as Katie shows her enthusiasm over each gift she opens. When she opens the gift from Bella and me, she gasps and starts jumping up and down. Victoria tries to settle her down enough to see what the gift is, but Katie just keeps jumping up and down and screaming. Victoria finally gets the papers from Katie's grasp, and Katie runs to Bella and I and wraps us in a tight hug.
"Oh, you two this is too much," Victoria says.
"Victoria, it isn't too much. This gift is just as much for her, as it is for us," I say.
Mom gets up and is looking over Victoria's shoulder, as she and James look through the information. We give Katie a one week stay in Chicago, along with plans for a day at American Girl, including a certificate for five hundred dollars. The full day planned for American Girl includes shopping, lunch, and a tour. A full day planned to visit Great America. There are several other tours, and things planned out; it will be a full week of fun. There is also gift card, good for any store at The Woodfield Mall, to go shopping. I am secretly glad that the amount of the card is not on the card itself. I told Bella that Victoria may get upset, but Bella says she has twelve years to make up for.
"Uncle Edward, are you and Aunt Bella taking me?" Katie asks.
"If your parents don't care, we will take you," I say.
"Yay!" Katie yells, jumping up and down again.
"James, Victoria, I know it is a lot, but we both just love Katie so much, and wanted to do something really nice for her. If you would like, Edward and I would be so happy to take her," Bella says.
"Bella, Edward, of course you two can take her. I am grateful for the chance to spend some time with my lovely wife. Maybe I can take Vic away someplace special at the same time," James says.
Bella smiles at me, knowing the perfect time for them to use the week away will be answered for them when they open the gift for them from us. With everyone happy, Katie resumes opening her gifts. Soon she has told everyone thank you, and has started playing with a few of her new things. Everyone starts opening their gifts and I hear Victoria chuckle as she reads the papers we give them.
"Guess you two know when you are taking Katie to Chicago, huh?" James asks, with a smirk on his face.
James and Victoria will be married fifteen years in April, so we are sending them on a five day cruise. Garrett and Tanya are happy with the five day cruise we gave them for over the Valentine's holiday. Everyone is happy with all of their gifts. I have always felt fortunate for the things I have gotten, but no gift this year can top what is sitting beside me.
I open the box Bella hands me last and notice it is a folder. Inside the folder is paperwork on a trip to France. I am in shock, we will be there for New Year's Eve. This will be perfect, I will propose to her in France.
After we clean the major mess from all the paper and ribbons, Bella and I take our things to our room.
"Edward, here is another part to your gift."
I turn and see a large suitcase, I open it and it is fully packed and ready to go on our trip.
"I got one too," Bella says as she moves to stand behind me. "Did you look through the paperwork at all?"
"No, just saw the destination is France," I say.
"Yes, we will be there for a while staying at a very nice hotel. We will have an apartment even. But the last week we are there, we are staying at a BDSM get away retreat."
I turn and face her.
"Really?" I ask.
"Yes, it will be fun. I do not expect for you to be collared the entire week, but I would enjoy it, if you are willing."
"Nothing would excite, and please this submissive more, Ma'am."
The days have flown by fast since Christmas, and here we are at the airport, starting off on our vacation. We will be in Chicago tonight and staying at Elysian, from there in the morning at ten we will go to O'Hare airport. We fly straight through to Paris, France. I am so happy and feel no stress at all. I have the ring in my pocket, and a plan in mind to propose. Almost all of our bags are checked; we have only one small carry on with us. Charlotte is shipping a package for us that will meet us at the BDSM resort we are going to.
The flight is tiring, but we are safely in our apartment at the Hotel Du Jeu De Paume. We are staying in Paris until the tenth of January. We can see so much from our balcony view; the whole city appears to be at our disposal.
"Do we have set plans while we are here?" I ask Bella.
"No, my love, I would like to do something nice tomorrow, to ring in the New Year."
"Can I make our dinner plans, my love?"
"Of course you can. I would really love that, Edward."
We decide to lie down after we have a light meal, and take a short nap. It is suggested in the paperwork from Beverly, to help fight off the jet lag, but help us also get our sleeping hours straight. It is currently shortly after eleven in the morning. We eat a little first, then head off to the huge bed. Snuggling together, we both nod off.
The city is beautiful, and I am so happy with the plans the guest service has helped me with today. I have everything set for tonight, and I am super excited. This morning, I sent Bella off to enjoy a morning at the spa, and I took care of some last minute plans.
Dinner is ready, and the table is set. I wait patiently for Bella, and as she steps out of the bedroom, my breath catches in my throat. I have never seen her look this beautiful. Her hair is piled on top of her head, with small strands of curls falling around the sides and back. The dress is a floor length, halter top that is cut all the way down to her belly button. As she walks to me, I can see the sides are cut to her hip.
"You are so exquisite," I say.
"And you look so handsome," she replies.
I take her hand and kiss it, and lead her to the balcony.
"We aren't leaving the room?" Bella asks, almost shockingly.
"Nope, I have everything I need right here," I say.
Leading her to her seat, I help her with her napkin. I sit across from her and lift the lid off our plates. I pour her a glass of champagne and raise my glass.
"A toast, to the most beautiful, and incredible woman I know."
"To the sexiest, kindest man I know," she says, clinking her glass to mine.
The dinner is wonderful, and the music playing and the candlelight set a romantic scene for us.
"Look at all the lights across Paris, Edward. This is so beautiful, I am so glad we came here."
"The lights across the night sky hold no comparison to your beauty, my love."
As she turns to look at me, I can see the spark of love in her eyes.
"Dance with me?" I ask, as I stand and offer my hand.
Holding her close as the waiter off in the corner, takes away our dinner dishes, then sets the dessert I chose out on the table.
"Edward, this is so wonderful. Thank you for sharing this with me, I will forever remember this night."
"I hope that you mean that, because I know that I will forever cherish this night throughout our future together."
"Edward, you always say the most romantic things to me," she says and kisses me.
"Looks like dessert is ready, my love. Are you ready to see what I got for you?"
"Yes, let's eat some sweets and ring in the New Year in our bed," she says winking at me.
"You're incorrigible," I growl in her ear.
"Only with you," she says, latching her lips to my neck.
I can't wait any longer. I drop to my right knee in front of her.
"Isabella Marie Swan, I love you more than I ever thought loving someone was possible. You are everything to me; every breath I take is because you give me the reason to live. I want to spend the rest of my days with you. Please tell me that you want that too, say you will be my wife. Will you marry me?"
"Yes," she says, dropping to her knees and hugging me close.
I slip the ring on her finger, and kiss it. Then I pull out a necklace for her.
"Isabella, I love that the ring you will wear is a symbol of not only our love and devotion, but a memory of your parents too. I am giving this to you, it is actually from my mother. This is a Cullen family crest, we all have one. My mom intended to give this to you, even if you refuse to marry me. I hope that you know that you are loved not only by me, but by my family as well. This is to show that you belong in my family. Read the inscription, then I will help you put it on."
I see her turn the crest over and read the words there, 'Isabella Marie Cullen, beloved daughter.' With tears in her eyes, she hands me back the necklace. Turning her back to me, I put the necklace around her neck. I kiss the back of her neck, and hug her back to my chest.
Our time in Paris flies by and today we fly to Dinard. The resort is sending a car to pick us up at the airport. We are only taking a medium size suitcase with us, the rest have been sent back to the States. They will be delivered to Peter's house, so we will travel lighter on the way home. We board the smaller plane, and the flight is just a short trip.
"Once we land, I expect you to not speak unless directly spoken to. We will not be sharing the resort with anyone else, while we are there. The only people we will see besides each other are the owners and staff. There is a cell and a dungeon sleeping quarters for submissives, however, you will not be sleeping in the dungeon or cell. You will either sleep with me, or where I tell you to sleep. Once we get to the resort, and we are in our room, I will collar you in a special collaring ceremony. I will be saying the vows we discussed last week, are your vows ready?"
"Yes, ma'am," I say.
"Very well," she says in her Domme voice. "I want you to know that I love you, Edward. I am thankful to have you in my life. Thank you, for loving me too," she says softly.
I turn and face her, bringing her left hand to my mouth, I kiss the ring on her finger.
"You are my life, Bella. I love you so much," I say.
We arrive at the airport in Dinard, and there is a car waiting for us. I walk behind her, off to her right. I carry the bag, and don't make any eye contact. The driver welcomes us, and I do not respond or acknowledge him at all. Once she is sitting in the car, she pats the seat next to her. I move fast and sit where she instructs. The drive to the resort takes about forty minutes, almost longer than our flight.
"You may get out now," she says as the car stops.
I get out and stand beside the car.
"Get the bag," she orders.
I move to the back and get our bag.
"Welcome to The French Dungeon, Mistress Isabella," comes a voice heavily accented with the French dialect.
"Thank you, Mistress Amethyst. I must say this place is more beautiful than the photos. Has my case arrived from the US yet?"
"Yes, it is placed in your room. You will find all of the items you requested have been set up in the Dungeon for you. I hope that you enjoy your stay. Supper will be served at six, the ceremony is set to start at eight. My submissive, Rachel, will show you to your room. Will your pet be staying in the cell or dungeon this evening?"
"No, my submissive will be sleeping in my quarters, unless the need for an overnight punishment should be needed. Thank you."
I follow as we make our way to her room.
"Thank you, Rachel," she says to the girl.
"Well, now we are alone, I want you to unpack all of the cases. There is the one we brought and there is another one over here. Do you have any questions?"
"No, Ma'am," I say.
I move about putting things away, enjoying seeing all the extremely sexy things that she has in the case. I notice there is only one change of clothes for me, and they appear to be travel clothes. I guess I will be spending most of my time in very minimal amounts of clothing. When I am done unpacking, I am unsure what I should do next. I decide to just move to my knees and kneel. Moving to kneel beside her chair, I am in my waiting pose, except I have clothes on.
"I want you on your feet, strip naked and kneel at the bottom of the bed, and wait for me to inspect your body."
She leaves the room and goes into the bathroom. I remove my clothes and kneel as she instructs me to.
I hear her come back in the room, and I can feel her eyes as she walks around me.
"Eyes up and look at me. I want you to speak freely, ask any questions you have."
Raising my eyes, I meet hers. She is so incredibly sexy, she is wearing a tight leather corset dress and black high heels.
"You look amazing, Ma'am," I say.
"Thank you, I can see from your rather hard cock twitching, that you approve of the outfit."
I swallow, and nod my head, not trusting my voice.
"Tell me, who does that hard cock belong to?"
"You, Ma'am, only you."
"Good," she says.
"You may follow me, on your feet. We will be going down to the main room. Are you comfortable without clothes, or do you want a pair of briefs?"
"Whatever pleases you most, Ma'am."
Walking over and standing right in front of me, she rubs her hand along my jaw.
"You are the perfect submissive. Do you have your vow written or memorized?"
"Both, Ma'am," I reply.
"Very well, let's go eat," she says.
The dinner is wonderful, and being hand fed by her makes the food taste even better than it would normally. We make our way to the ceremony room, where I stand behind her.
"Mistress Isabella," she is greeted by a man with a heavy accent.
"Master Karl, are you ready for our ceremony?"
"Yes, do you have your commitment statements prepared?"
"Yes, we do."
"Very well. As you requested, the items are right here. The door right there leads to the dungeon. Everything is awaiting you."
"Thank you so much," she says.
I hear the door close, and she moves to stand in front of me. Using her hand she raises my chin, and leans forward and kisses my lips. Stroking my cheek, she smiles at me.
"Since we have revamped our relationship in the lifestyle, I want to exchange with you my vows. I have a new collar for you, you may wear it only when you are collared, but this is for you to wear all of the time."
She holds open a velvet box, inside are matching platinum rings. Both rings have engravings on them and are simple quarter inch wide bands. The male band has 'Tá mé dá cuid' on it, and the female ring has 'Tá sé mianach'.
"What does it mean?" I ask, running my fingers across the words on each ring.
"The ring I will wear says, 'he is mine', and the ring that you will wear says, 'I am hers'."
"I am yours," I say.
She strokes my jaw, and rubs her thumb on my lower lip.
"I explained to you last week, what I wanted and you say that you understand, so please tell me your vow."
"I researched what we spoke about and came across this. It is called, The Submissive 's Creed. I promise, I will communicate with complete honesty my needs, desires, limits, and experience. I realize that failing to do so will not only prevent my Mistress and I from having the best experience possible, but can also lead to physical and emotional harm. I will not try to manipulate my Mistress. I will not push to make a scene go the way I feel it should. I will keep an open mind about trying things that I am not accustomed to or comfortable with and expanding my limits. I will continue to grow as a submissive and as a human being. I will accept the responsibility of discovering what pleases my Mistress, and will do my best to fulfill her wishes and desires. I will not allow myself to be harmed or abused; I know that submissive does not equal doormat. I will be courteous and helpful to my fellow submissives, I will share my knowledge and experiences with others in the hope that they will learn from where I have been, and I will take the time to help those new to the scene start out on the correct path. I will be responsive to my Mistress, I will not try to hide what my mind and body are feeling so that I may assist Her in Her responsibilities as my Authority, I know that Dommes are not telepathists, and will not expect my Mistress to know thoughts or feelings which I do not share. I will never think myself a submissive because I choose to submit on a different level than another. I will not be boastful of experiences I have had as a sub. I know that my actions reflect upon my Mistress, and will do my best to help others see her in a positive way, I will not intentionally embarrass or displease my Mistress. Above all, I will wear my title of submissive with honor, I will never cause others to think that being submissive means to be weak or sub-human. I will take pride in who and what I am, and will never show myself in a negative way."
"Edward, you have gone above and beyond what I expected of you, as you always do. My vows are simple, and I share them with you. I vow to always hold the gift that you give to me in the utmost of importance. The trust that you instill in me, gives me the strength to protect you. I vow to always give you the things that I see you need. I vow to have no other submissive, I vow to always trust your full submission. I give to you this ring, it is to be always on your right hand ring finger. You should only ever remove it, if you chose to end our lifestyle relationship. Do you accept this ring, and give to me your vow of full submission?"
"Yes, Ma'am," I say proudly.
She slips the ring upon my finger, and hands me the other ring.
"This ring is for me to wear to show that you are mine, it will be on my ring finger of my right hand, unless our lifestyle relationship ends."
I slide the ring on her finger.
"Kneel," she orders.
I drop to my knees in front of her, and immediately move into my inspection pose.
"Do you agree to wear my collar for the next six days? By agreeing to do so, you will be submitting to me. Completely entrusting me with your full submission."
"Yes, Ma'am," I answer.
She shows me the new collar; it is made of heavy links of black colored metal. She latches the collar around my neck and I notice it feels heavier than I am used to.
"The new collar is titanium, and it is gun metal powder dusted. I love the bigger, heavier links of it. Is it comfortable?"
I nod.
"You may thank me."
I drop my hands to the floor beside her feet and starting at her toes, I kiss across the tops of both of her feet. I pay special attention to the slope below her ankle bone on the inside of each foot.
"Follow me, mo daor," she says walking away.
I crawl behind my Mistress, into a larger room. The floors are high gloss black wood, I can see the wall in front of me is all mirrors. My Mistress stops next to a rather large leather covered table, it reminds me of the spanking bench she has.
"Get up on the bench face down. I want your arms above your head and a knee on each side ledge."
The design of the bench is low to the ground, and how she orders me on it; has my ass high in the air, and just my upper chest, arms, and side of my face on the bench. My Mistress moves to the top of the bed.
"Answer me when I ask a question. Hold onto these hoops. Can you keep your hands on them?"
"Yes, Mistress."
"What is your color, mo daor?"
"Mistress, your submissive is green."
"Very good, do not let go of either of the rings. Keep your face turned to the side, so that you can watch in the mirror the things I am going to do."
My Mistress moves to my right leg and I feel the ropes, as she begins to bind first my right leg. Moving to my left leg, she binds it as well. I feel her hands and nails as she runs them across the skin of my ass.
"What is your color," she asks after binding my legs.
"Green, Mistress."
"I really love how nice and firm your ass is, I have missed seeing you spread out for me like this. I am going to make you feel really good. Would you like that, mo daor?"
"This submissive is yours to do with as you wish, Mistress, if it pleases you, this submissive will like it too."
I hear her as she moves away, and I hear the click of her heels as she returns to my side. She has a few things on a small table, and I see her grab a flogger first. It looks like it has a leather handle and the small strap look like shreds of leather as well. The excitement courses through me, I know that this will be a very erotic spanking.
"Does my new flogger excite you, mo daor?"
"Yes, Mistress."
"Would you like it if I whipped your back, ass and legs until they are pink?"
"If it pleases you, Mistress."
"Remember your colors, safe word if you need it. You are not allowed to cum."
"Yes, Mistress," I say.
The first swipe lands across my back, wrapping to my right side. She continues to deliver swat after swat, covering my feet, legs, back, sides, and ass. The rush of tingling travels across my skin, and my cock is weeping for attention.
"Color, mo daor?"
"Your submissive is green, Mistress."
"Would you like some more?"
"Only if it pleases you, Mistress"
"You please me, mo daor. The reaction of your body to my touch pleases me. I think it is time to give you a little more pleasure."
She moves back to the tray, and I see her pick up a long black cylindrical toy that has a twist like design, and ends in a tear drop shaped bulb. She holds it up so I can see it clearly.
"Do you know what this is, mo daor?"
"No, Mistress," I reply.
"This is a male prostate toy; its purpose is to milk the prostate gland. I am going to use it and I am going to give you several orgasms. You may cum as often as you can, and I want to hear you. If you please me, then I will let you have some of my tasty pussy."
I watch her as she lubes up the toy, and I can't help but moan out as she lubes my puckered hole. I enjoy the feel of her fingers stretching me, and my cock is twitching in response to her touch. She holds the toy by the hand grip and she begins to work the bulb tip into me. I moan out from the pleasure of the tip penetrating my ass. As the ridges of the twists move deep into me, I can feel the pulsing bulb as it sends a warming feeling and vibrations against that sweet spot inside of me. I moan out, and as she pulls it back and thrusts it back forward, I let out a scream of pleasure. With her right hand controlling the toy as she fucks my ass with it, her left hand is massaging my balls. I yell out as my first orgasm rips through my body. I feel her hand stroking my cock, to help ride out the pleasure. The pulsing stops, but I feel the toy still buried deep inside me.
"Well, that was good, but I think you have at least one more in you. I am going to change toys. I think this other toy will be easier for me to bring you to the next orgasm. What is your color, mo daor?"
"Green, Mistress, your submissive is very green."
"Good," she says.
Moving back to the table, I see her moving about. When she moves back to where I can see her, I notice she is holding a slightly larger dildo.
"I think that this will fit nicely in your ass. Do you want your Mistress to fuck that pretty ass?"
"Yes, Mistress, if it will please you, yes."
"Oh, mo daor, it sounds like you really want your Mistress to fuck that tight ass really badly. I guess then I will need to remove this," she says.
With a flick of the snap on the side of her skirt, it drops to the floor. I see that she is wearing a leather harness, and I watch as she slides the dildo onto the securing ring, and snaps it into place. She moves closer to my head and leans forward, resting the tip of the dildo by my mouth.
"Raise that head enough to kiss the tip of my big cock."
I lift my head and place open mouth kisses on the tip of her strap on. She threads her fingers into my hair with her left hand and pulls my head up a little more.
"I want you to suck my cock, show me how much you want me to fuck that sexy ass," she says, slapping her right hand on my ass.
I open my mouth, and she pushes the tip past my lips. I adjust myself enough to take her deep into my throat, and I suck hard, making a popping sound as she pulls it out of my lips.
"I am going to fuck that ass now," she says moving back to the end of the bench.
I watch her as she takes the hand grip of the toy in my ass, and the feeling of her removing it makes me hard again. I see her lube up the end of the dildo, and she moves to stand right behind me. My ass is at the perfect level for her, and I feel the tip rest right against my puckered hole. Grabbing hold of my ass in her hands, her nails rake across the soft flesh, as she slowly pushes inside of me. The pain of the stretching is followed by the intense pleasure radiating through my body.
"Color," she asks, stilling her hips.
"Green, Mistress, very green," I say.
"Good, mo daor, hold those rings tight, I am going to fuck this tight ass, nice and hard. Are you ready for me, mo daor?"
"Yes, Mistress…yes, so ready."
She pulls back and I feel the larger size of the tip, and suddenly she thrusts deep into me. The coolness of the metal silver studs on the harness is rubbing the back of my thighs, with her thrusts. As she rocks back and forth into me, I can feel the intense pleasure building more and more inside of me. Her small hand snakes around and grabs my cock. As her thrusting picks up in speed, her hand moves along my cock. When I scream out in my second orgasm, my Mistress rubs my lower back.
I feel empty as she removes the dildo from me. I hear her moving around behind me, I see her remove the dildo from the harness. I feel the ropes being removed from both legs, and I feel her hands as she rubs my legs down. Once I am rubbed down, she moves to my side.
"What is your color, mo daor?"
"Green, Mistress," I say.
"Good, can you stand?"
"Yes, Mistress," I reply.
Taking the hand she offers me, I stand. With her facing me, she opens her arms and wraps them around my neck, pulling my face down to hers, she kisses me.
"Your response to my touch always pleases me. I think we should go back to our room. We can take a bath, and then you can please me."
I notice she flips a switch, next to the door, as we walk out. No lights go off, and I wonder what the switch is. We get back in my Mistress' room, and I follow her into the bathroom. I watch as she runs the bath water, and places some towels on the warmer.
"Come over here," she orders.
I move to her side, and she turns her back to me.
"Unlace the corset and harness, and remove them," she says.
I move my fingers trailing them down her skin as I unlace each tie of the corset, letting it fall open. I move to the buckles of the harness, and gently slide the leather down her legs. With the corset and the harness on the floor, I gently lift each foot, freeing them from the leather surrounding them.
"Help me in the tub, mo daor," she orders.
I hold her hand and help her step into the warm scented water.
"Join me? The tub is a complete free zone. You may talk, ask questions; just remain respectful."
I step into the water and sit beside her in the large tub.
"Mistress, thank you, this has been a wonderful night. I was curious about something. Why did you flip the switch when leaving the playroom? No lights went off, or anything I noticed anyway."
"While we are here, you are here only for my pleasure. There are workers here, I was letting them know that they could come clean the room. They will clean and sterilize all the toys, and within an hour we could return and it will be ready."
"Are we going back to the playroom, tonight?"
"No, my love, we are going to go to bed," she says.
"Mistress, you…don't you, want me?"
"Look at me," she orders, as I raise my eyes. "I want you, but I want you to have time to relax a little first. Then when we move to my bed, I will have you pleasure me. I want you to hold me in your strong loving arms all night. I want my submissive to be close to me, all night long."
"Your submissive will always be where you want him, Mistress. Your submissive loves all of you, with his whole heart."
THE END.
~*~*~*#*~*~*~
A/N: I need to say first off any mistakes you may have found or noticed throughout this story are mine, and mine alone. Thank you everyone for following me throughout this journey. There will be a rather decent sized epilogue that I will start working on, this weekend. I should post it within three weeks, I just want to wait for your input. Is there something you want to see in the epilogue? Let me know, I have no clear driven plan for the content of the epilogue, as of yet. Tell me what you want to see. I also plan to write a few out-takes here and there. Anything that involves this story will be added directly to this story. I have some huge plans on stories to come, and I hope that you will enjoy reading those as well. I may even write another D/s story. I have a bunch of story ideas, and I will be writing more soon. I can never say thank you enough to some very wonderful people who have been with me on this journey. Thank you, Lisa, Jess, Amber, Bell, and especially thank you to YOU, the reader. HUGS~Kasi
The Quotes: 'Biology is the least of what makes someone a mother,' belongs to Ms. Oprah Winfrey. Thank you to her for that wonderful, and very true quote. The submissives creed is by, Copyright © 2002 - 2011 [A submissives journey]. All rights reserved. (I did change all the him to her and all the Master to Mistress.)