New story…I'm just teeming with ideas. LOL. Anyhow, I'm just going with this story off the cuff to see where it goes in the first chapter. If it's good, I'll continue it. If not, we'll have to see. I'm delving back into the realm of vampires. But, Bella's the vamp this time. Without further ado…
Unfortunately, not mine.
Damn. It.
EPOV
"I'm never going back to Chicago, am I?" I asked Jasper as we drove to the closest mall that was about an hour away from Bella's cabin.
"Probably not, Edward," Jasper said with a frown. "Are you sure that you want this?"
"To be with Bella? Yes. I've never been more certain about anything in my life," I said as looked at him.
"Are you ready to give up everything in your life, your family, your future?" Jasper pressed. "If you become like one of us, you will have to 'die' in the eyes of your family. Edward Masen will cease to exist."
"I can't be without her, Jasper," I murmured. "It hurts. Physically hurts. I feel like my heart is back at that cabin. If I give her up…" My heart stammered against my chest and I felt the edges of my vision cloud.
"Okay, relax, Edward," Jasper said. "You're on the verge of a panic attack. I get it."
I felt myself calm down and I slumped against the seat of Bella's Ferrari. "Did you do that?"
"Yep. Cool, huh?" Jasper snickered. "I never realized the full extent of my gift until I met Alice. I could always feel the emotions of others and could project those emotions back out to nearby humans. But, Alice suggested that I try projecting a different emotion. I started simple with happy and when I mastered that, it grew from there. It's easier to manipulate human emotions than vampire ones, though."
"I have a question, Jasper," I said, furrowing my brow. "What does it feel like for you to be around me? Being around a human?"
"Do you want me to sugarcoat?"
"Brutally, honest."
"My throat is on fire, Edward. Plus, being inside this car with you is my own personal hell," Jasper said, his smile fading. "Your scent is mouthwatering and couple that with your strong heartbeat, it's taking all of my strength to not drain you. But, I couldn't do that to Bella. She's your mate and if I killed you, Bella would kill me then herself. However, it's worse for her."
"Because I'm her singer?" I muttered.
"Yes. What I'm feeling is nothing compared to what Bella is experiencing. Breathing in your scent for me is like swallowing gasoline and lighting a match," Jasper said.
"Fuck," I groaned.
"For Bella, it's like breathing in plasma. You know from Star Trek?" Jasper said. "I'm in awe that she was able to restrain herself against you. Especially since she's drunk from humans before. Her entire existence. Something should have snapped and you should be dead. But, you're not. Her arousal and connection to you is stronger than the call of your blood."
"Oh," I said dumbly. I was shocked that Bella's connection and her, um, arousal, prevented her from killing me.
"You're surprised? What are you surprised about?" Jasper asked.
"Have you ever had sex with a human, Jasper?" I asked bluntly.
"Once. It ended. Badly," he choked out. "It was early in my life as a vampire. I was still feeding on humans. But, I was attracted to this girl and I wanted to try. However, the girl was a virgin and when I pushed through her hymen; the blood caused me to lose control. I drained her before I even realized that I had fallen into bloodlust."
"Holy fuck," I blanched. "Could that happen with me and Bella?"
"Female vampires and human males aren't a good mix, either," Jasper said, making a face. "There are succubi who have sex with human males, but it's only to get their pleasure and then the men are killed purposefully. You're shocked about the arousal statement?" I nodded. "Edward, vampires are very sexual creatures. That's because our sexual desires are closely related to our instincts when we hunt. The animal. Or as Bella calls it, her monster."
"She's not a monster. She's an angel," I whispered.
"Not in her eyes. She's killed so many people, Edward. Yes, she used her gift to prevent killing innocents, but they were still humans," Jasper explained. "We're here. You need to get clothes, probably a new cell phone, and other human necessities. And don't worry about paying for it. You can't use your credit cards. It'll alert Victoria to where you are. Knowing Bella, she probably has everything set up for you and she's just waiting for Jenks with the package of goodies."
"Her attorney?"
"Yep. She probably got you a few aliases, driver's licenses and new birth certificates," Jasper explained. "We'll also have to empty out your bank accounts, set you up with a secret account as well. " Jasper's cell phone beeped and he pulled it out. He chuckled. "Well, it's already done, according to Alice. Bella is such a whiz with a computer. She added you to her accounts and you have credit card under the name of Masen Anthony at the cabin. But for now, everything you need is on me."
"Even an engagement ring?" I frowned.
"For Bellsy?" Jasper asked. I looked at him and nodded solemnly. "Be a little more enthusiastic than that, Edward."
"I want to scream it from the rooftops, but we've known each other for less than a week," I muttered.
"Edward, when vampires mate, it's for eternity. Once you've found your mate; that one person that was made for you, then you can't have anyone else. Your souls are connected," Jasper said quietly. "Bella doesn't believe she has a soul, but she does. A good one. It's why she focused her hunting on the assholes of the world. Now, can you imagine being with anyone besides her?"
"No. I'd rather cut off my left nut," I grumbled.
"Don't do that," Jasper snickered. "Look, for all intents and purposes, Bella and you are already married physically. Can you consummate that marriage? Eh, not yet. Can you provide a physical representation for your love? Yes. And I'll help you."
"How?" I asked.
"When Bella's parents died, they had no other children. I acted like an attorney and took over their wills. I have what is legally Bella's, including her grandmother's engagement and wedding ring. It goes with her necklace, so to speak," Jasper explained. "The eternity necklace is part of a set. Her grandmother gave her the necklace when she was a child and in her will, left her wedding set to her Bella. I have it with me."
"You do?" I questioned, excited at the prospect of proposing with a ring from Bella's past.
"I do. It needs to be cleaned, polished and buffed, but it's in pretty good condition," Jasper explained as he reached into his pocket. He handed me a small velvet bag and I carefully shook out its contents. Two rings fell into my palm and they were beautiful. The engagement ring was a large blue diamond with filigree work with white diamonds along the shoulders of the ring. Based on the weight of the ring, it appeared to be platinum. The wedding band was also platinum with three blue diamond stones and similar diamond filigree work in between the blue stones. "Bellsy always loved blue. She always wanted blue clothing when she first woke up. I think she'll love it and the fact that it's her grandmother's will mean the world to her."
"Let's get this buffed and polished," I murmured as I ran my fingers over the rings reverently. "I have my soul mate to propose to."
"Now, we're talking," Jasper smirked. We headed into the mall and spent a shit-ton of money on clothes, shoes, underwear and every other necessity that I could ever possibly want or need. When the sales guy gave Jasper his total at Macy's, he choked on the amount. Nearly $20,000 on clothes, underwear, shoes, and jewelry. Some of it was for Jasper. He had a thing for watches apparently and there were some cool ones that he had to have. As we were shopping, Jasper received another text from Alice and said that we had to pick up some clothes for Bella, as well. Another twenty grand later, she had a new wardrobe. I asked about Emmett and Alice texted back saying that he and Rose would be indisposed for at least four more days before they would need clothes.
Four days?
The last stop before we headed back to the cabin was a jewelry store. I spoke with a kind gentleman and asked if I could get Bella's rings cleaned and polished. Smelling a sale, he asked if I wanted to replace the center stone with a large white diamond, but I shook my head no. The ring was perfect the way it was. With a huff, he went about cleaning and buffing it. Once he was done, the ring sparkled magically and I smiled, imagining it on Bella's finger.
Jasper saw the rings and he smiled brightly. He also held in his hand a small bag. Another watch? I thanked the man for his help and we headed back to the cabin. I begged Jasper to stop for some food since I was starving and he chastised himself forgetting to feed the human. I chuckled and told him that it wasn't a big deal. We pulled into a fast food joint and I ordered a burger and fries. As I ate, Jasper asked me a few questions about my life in Chicago and about what I did. When I explained my job, he said that it could legitimately be done without ever having to meet the client. I could still keep working after I become a vampire. From the way he was talking, it almost sounded certain that I was going to become one.
However, Bella refused to even think about it.
I was still trying to wrap my head around everything. And it's fucking weird that I can hear what she's thinking. But, nothing from Jasper or the rest of the group. Just Bella.
After I finished my meal, we continued back to the cabin. Before we were even up the drive, Alice greeted Jasper by jumping into his arm, kissing his face fiercely. She chattered on like a monkey in a tree, yammering too quickly for me to understand. I got out of the car, gaping at them like they were speaking Mandarin.
Edward? Bella called to me mentally. I turned and there she was. My angel. She looked shy as she stood before me, wringing her hands. However, her pale skin didn't look so peaked nor did she have as dark shadows under her eyes. Her red eyes. That's still strange to see, but she's still so beautiful.
"Bella," I breathed and held open my arms. She smiled widely, jumping into my embrace, wrapping her legs around me. Her cold body melted against mine and I sighed, breathing her in. I missed you, angel, I thought.
Me, too, she cooed as she nuzzled my neck. Pressing a kiss to my throat, she hopped out of my arms. "Do you need help?"
"Probably. Jasper bought the entire store," I snickered.
"Alice said that you needed variety," Jasper chimed in as he pulled his mouth away from Alice. "We got you some clothes, too, Bellsy."
"Some?" Alice asked, arching a brow.
"Okay, we got you one of everything in your size," Jasper snorted.
"Thanks, Jas," Bella smiled appreciatively. "Come, Edward, I have a few things I need to go over with you. I'm certain Jasper told you a little bit, but I need to into more detail."
"Sure, angel," I replied as I picked up some of the bags with my new wardrobe. We carried in the bags and dumped them into the bedroom. Bella grabbed my hand and dragged me into an office where there were three computers set up; my laptop being one of them attached to a desktop. I frowned and looked at Bella. "How were you able to get into my laptop? It was encrypted."
"Being a vampire means we use a hundred percent of our brains," she said. "All of the time. I broke the encryption. I'm sorry." Her eyes fell to the ground. "I needed to access your accounts and reroute them. You'll still be paid to do the work, but the money will bounce from one bank to the next before it's settled in your new main account linked with mine. Edward, it's important for you not to be found. If Victoria finds you, you're as good as dead. I cannot have that."
"I thought I was the computer whiz kid," I quipped, feeling bad that I made her uncomfortable. I trusted Bella. She only had my best interests at heart but it still caused me stress that she could easily crack my encryption codes. They were fool proof.
"For humans, Edward," she said, looking up at me. "No human mind could have cracked your encryption sequences. It took me about ten times to get in. Relax."
"Fine, fine," I sighed.
"I've prepared a couple of contingency plans," Bella explained. "First off, you cannot use your credit cards. I've already called and canceled them. I said I was your wife and that you had your wallet stolen. I've set up three separate credit cards linked to three separate accounts. Alternate using them." She handed me the three cards. One was an American Express under the name of Masen Anthony. The second was a Visa card under the name of Edward Cullen. The third was a Master Card under the name of Anthony Swan.
"How many aliases do you have?" I asked. "Is Bella your real name?"
"Yes. My real name is Isabella Marie Swan," Bella answered, rolling her eyes. "I've gone by Marie Swan, Isa Cygnus, Bella Sparrow…"
"Bella Sparrow?"
"Shut it. I was having a brain fart," she quipped. "But, I guess I can add another name to my list of aliases…Bella Masen."
"I fucking love that," I growled, pulling her from her chair and into my lap. I kissed her neck as she giggled. It truly sounded like bells pealing.
"Edward!" Alice chirped. "I need you!" She stuck her head into office. "I'm trying to cook you some dinner but I think I blew up the kitchen."
"Alice, I already ate," I said, arching a brow.
"Your growling stomach says otherwise," Alice said as she grabbed my arm. Ow! She pulled me away from Bella and into the kitchen. She quickly pulled out a piece of paper, scribbling on it. I know you're not hungry but I had to stop you.
Picking up the pen, I replied, Stop me from what?
PROPOSING, you idiot! You need to make a big deal out of it. Do you trust me?
I looked at her and she was bouncing on her toes. Honestly, no. You're WAAAAAAAAAY too hyper. Do they make vampire Ritalin?
Hush!
We're writing this. I can't really hush, Alice. I'm already quiet. Why can't we talk?
Because, vampires have super hearing. I can hear Bella typing on the computer, humming quietly. Can you?
I strained but I heard nothing but the heater of the house. I shook my head. Alice continued writing. This is why we need to write. Once you become a vampire, I can lose the pencil and just talk to you mentally. Like you already do with Bella.
Do you see it, Alice? Will I become a vampire?
Yes, you will. No matter how much the future changes, I see you becoming one of us. Alice frowned and put her hand on my forearm. Then, her sadness faded and she smiled again. Back to your proposal. It needs to be special.
I can't exactly take her out to eat, Alice. What am I going to do? Find a moose and tie it to a tree?
No, silly. Obviously a romantic dinner for two won't work, but doing something for each other would work. I know just the thing! Be ready to propose in two days, Edward. And wear your new black suit.
I rubbed my face, looking at Alice. She was already tapping something on her phone and dancing like a little sprite. "Alice!" I hissed. "Care to share with the class?"
"I've got work to do. Go play with Bella," she giggled as she darted out of the back of the cabin. My jaw dropped and I shook my head. I checked the time and saw that it was nearly nine at night. I was getting tired. I padded up to the bedroom. Bella was hanging our new clothes carefully. I snuck up behind her and wrapped my arms around her waist. She melted in my arms.
"I smelled you when you came in, Edward," Bella said as she hung up the shirt she was holding.
"Are you saying I smell bad?" I snorted.
"No. Quite the opposite. If I could bottle your scent, I'd make millions of dollars," she smiled, turning in my arms.
"Did you hunt while I was gone?" I asked. I ran my fingers along her skin, tracing under her eyes. She sighed and captured my hand, kissing my palm.
"I did. Alice and I ran north to talk about our 'upbringing' as it were. She didn't need to feed but she wanted to show me the joys of carnivores," she answered, kissing my nose. "I caught a brown bear." My eyes bugged out of my head. Bella was so tiny and a brown bear was so not. "Remember the boulder?"
"Right," I chuckled nervously. "Now, what did Alice say about your 'upbringing?'"
"She thinks that our sires are the same. She cannot remember her human life either," Bella frowned. "She thinks he did the same thing to her that he did to me."
I saw red. The same cruel demon hurt Alice? "Can you kill a vampire?" I asked, barely containing my ire in my voice. I wanted to murder the monster who had hurt my Bella. Who had stolen her innocence.
"It's very difficult," Bella answered warily. "There's a lot involved. Fire being the key component." I looked at her, urging her to continue. "You have to tear apart a vampire and burn the parts. Who do you want to burn?"
"Your sire," I snarled. I crushed her to my chest. "He took something from you that no man should EVER take from a woman. Sharing your body with your lover is the ultimate gift."
"I can't give that to you, Edward," Bella sniffled. "He ruined me."
"Bella, he didn't ruin you," I whispered, taking her chin and forcing her to look at me. "It doesn't matter to me, angel. You're it for me. Human or vampire. You're everything that I could ever hope for. I could ever dream of. I love you, Bella."
"I love you, too, Edward," she whimpered, wrapping her arms around my neck. I buried my nose into her neck, inhaling deeply. Then, I yawned. Bella snickered and let me go. "You need to sleep, Edward. The quality of your rest last night was sorely lacking."
"Can you lay down with me?" I asked. I know I should be this fearless, strapping guy, but honestly, the turn events that had happened in the past two days threw me for a loop. She gave me a soft smile, lacing her fingers with mine. We walked to the king-sized bed and I stripped down to my boxer briefs. Bella stayed dress which caused me pout. I had seen her in our shower earlier today and she was beautiful. Fucking perfect. I wanted to feel my skin against hers.
"You'll get hypothermia, Edward," Bella frowned. "I'm technically dead and subsequently 'cold.'" I furrowed my brow. She had heard me? Bella eyes grew wide and she blinked. "I'm sorry, Edward. I'll stay out of your head. I like to hear what you're thinking. How you're processing this…I'll give you your privacy."
"It's just weird. And the fact that you can turn it on and off," I chuckled as I crawled into the bed, slipping between the sheets. "Why do you have a bed? You don't sleep."
"Random," she laughed.
"Come on, it's a valid question," I said as I cuddle closer to her. She wrapped her arms around me, pressing my cheek to her chest. Instead of listening to steadily beating heart, I heard nothing. Her fingers tangled into my hair and she gently massaged my head. I nuzzled her neck, kissing her earlobe as I waited for the answer to my question.
"I have beds to keep up appearances," Bella answered as she continue scratching my scalp. "Despite the fact that I can't sleep, I still like to lounge around and relax. I could do it on the floor, but the cushion of the bed is far more comfortable." I smiled sleepily and yawned again. "Sleep, my love. I'm not going anywhere."
"I love you, my angel," I mumbled sleepily.
"I adore you, my Edward," her voice said dreamily as I slipped into unconsciousness, curled around her.
xx A&M xx
The next couple of days consisted of me working. Well, I finished the active contracts I had going then issued a statement saying that I was going to take a sabbatical for at least a year. Jasper said that he'd take over some of the work for me while I dealt with this crap with Victoria. In my press release, I explained that my partner was going to be the contact. 'Jasper Cullen' was now a partner in Masen Web Design. He actually helped me complete my open contracts.
Damn, he was fast. He had two computers working and did twice as much work that I did. Plus, the no sleeping thing was a bonus, too. I wanted to pay Jasper but he said that he didn't need it.
In the evening, Alice told Jasper to help me get ready for my big proposal. Alice was dressing Bella. Her mind filled mine with questions: What's going on, Edward? Why is Alice forcing me into a dress? Why is Esme curling my hair? I chuckled quietly which caused Bella to growl. As I was getting ready, Carlisle slipped into the room.
"I heard from Rosalie," he chuckled.
"Really? Have they dismembered each other yet?" Jasper asked, arching a brow.
"They leveled a forest preserve in Canada," Carlisle smirked. "In addition to being in bloodlust, they've also bonded, physically."
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"They fucked, Edward," Jasper explained.
"Language, Jasper," Carlisle admonished. "When a newly mated pair bonds physically, it deepens their connection."
"So, you're saying that when Bella and I, um, make love, we'll become more connected?" I questioned.
"Yes. Even more so," Carlisle answered. "I'm surprised at the level of connection that you and Bella have now even though you haven't bonded."
"Fucked," Jasper snickered.
"Don't make me throttle you," Carlisle said, holding up his finger. "But, based off the description of Bella's attack when she was changed, she might not be ready to take that step with Edward. And certainly not while he's human. With Edward being Bella's singer…"
"Hello, Edward's standing right here," I said as I waved wildly.
"Sorry, son," Carlisle said nervously. "Anyhow, I'm supposed to take you to a secret location. It's where Alice has this all set up. Jasper is bringing Bella."
"How are we getting there? Car?" I asked.
"Ah, no," Carlisle snickered as he whipped me on his back and we were off. Holy crap. Holy crap. Holy crap. Wearing a suit and moving faster than the speed of sound. HOLY CRAP!
A few minutes later, we were near the lake and by a gazebo. There was a small dinner table set up in the gazebo with food for me. There was an iPod dock station set up with some quiet jazz being played. "Yeah, this is great. But how are we going to get back. I don't want to hop on my fiancée's back after I drop down to one knee."
Carlisle turned me around. Behind the gazebo was a very fancy tent set up with a pair of pajamas for both me and Bella. I walked into the tent and found that it was heated, obviously for my benefit. "We'll be back with your Volvo to pick you up in the morning," Carlisle explained. "Edward, you may not be able to make love to Bella but you can and should explore your bodies."
"Why do I feel like I'm getting the talk from my dad?" I teased.
"Probably because you are," Carlisle deadpanned. "You can fool around, Edward. You won't be changed unless the venom is injected into your bloodstream. So you can do other things. But it's all dependent on Bella. What she's comfortable with, you know?"
"Right," I said. I wandered around in the tent and picked up the pajamas left there for me, a pair of sleep pants and a Henley. I picked up the pajamas left for Bella, arching a brow at Carlisle.
"Alice. She loves to dress us and well, Rose is very hard headed and won't let her attack her wardrobe. Esme is more conservative," he explained. "Consider yourselves a living, breathing Ken and Barbie doll."
"Except I have genitals," I quipped. Carlisle rolled his eyes. "Thank you for helping with this, Carlisle and for, well, everything around the whole situation."
"You're welcome, Edward. I know that this is immensely crazy but you've accepted it. Accepted us with grace and poise," Carlisle smiled, squeezing my shoulder. "I can hear Jasper. I'm going to leave. Good luck even though you won't need it."
"Thanks," I laughed. Carlisle darted away. Once he was gone, I turned and walked back to the gazebo. I ran my fingers over the weathered wood and tried to figure out how Alice got the lights up. And where the hell the power source was. Anything to occupy my mind from what I was doing tonight. I've known Bella for a week and a few days and I'm proposing marriage. It should be freaking me the fuck out.
I wasn't, though. She was everything I could ever want in a partner. Strong. Beautiful. Smart. Loving. Compassionate. Funny. Humble. Loyal. Perfect. Mine.
"Damn right, I'm yours," she smirked.
"Get out of my head," I joked as I turned. Standing before me was my Bella. Her hair was curled and hung over her shoulders like a curtain of chestnut twists. On her body was a royal blue dress with thick straps that cinched in at the waist and floated away airily around her hips. She carried a pair of shoes in her hand as she walked to the gazebo. "Can't run in heels?"
"I can. It just slows me down," she said as she slipped the shoes onto her feet. "This is beautiful."
"I had nothing to do with it. Carlisle dropped me off a few minutes before you," I said. "You're gorgeous, Bella. I've never seen such a more radiant woman."
She ducked her head and if she could, she probably would have blushed. "You look so handsome, Edward. I've never seen you in a suit and yeah, damn."
"I hate wearing them but if you like them on me, I'll wear one for the rest of my life for you," I said as held up my hand to her. She lithely stepped toward me, intertwining her fingers with mine. I pulled her into my arms and we swayed slowly to the music that was playing from the iPod dock. Her cheek was pressed against my chest, listening to my heart.
"Someone's hungry," Bella giggled.
"Shit," I snorted.
"I think that's why Alice set up the dinner," Bella said as she pulled me to the table. Pushing me into the chair, she uncovered the meal. It was a simple steak with a baked potato and some asparagus. I looked up at Bella, feeling guilty about eating in front of her. "Don't be guilty. I'm still full from the bear I had two days ago." I arched a brow. "Privacy, got it."
"I'm sorry. It's still a lot for me to get used to," I said as I dug into my food. "You can hear what I'm thinking. What everyone's thinking. It's got to be interesting."
"It can be," Bella said as she leaned forward. "I've seen some weird stuff in my time."
"You have to tell me the weirdest thought you've ever seen," I asked, genuinely curious.
"Well, it was about ten years ago. I was in Washington D.C., passing through on my way to New York City," Bella began. "A certain ex-president was having some very explicit thoughts about getting it on with a woman wearing a plushie rabbit head. Then, the same plushie rabbit-headed woman was wearing a strap-on, pleasuring the same ex-president in the ass."
"Dubya was thinking that?" I snorted. Bella bit her lip and nodded. "I'm scarred, Bella. Scarred!"
"So was I," Bella cringed. "I turned off my telepathy for nearly a month after that. The mental image of Dubya doing that is forever burned in my brain."
"I'm so sorry," I said sympathetically. "I have another question for you, how did you hunt humans? You said you hunted the lowest of the low."
"When a human is mentally unstable or has violent tendencies, their minds see violence everywhere. For example, if someone cuts you off the highway, what would you do? Be honest."
"Honk my horn if he almost caused an accident but go along my way," I replied.
"If a person is violent, they'd think of a million different ways to kill, maim or harm the person that cut them off. Or, they are fixated on a specific type of violence. Rape, for instance. If a guy doesn't take no for an answer for sex, he'll visual raping the woman and that's when I step in. A couple weeks ago, I saved a woman, Lauren, from her boyfriend, Tyler. He smacked her around and was going to rape her that night. Violently. I played the part of an interested party, like I was going to join them in a threesome to get her away. She left and I dragged him into an alleyway, draining him after I showed him what I saw in his mind," Bella explained, guilt riddling her tone.
"You can do that?"
"I can," Bella said as she played with a napkin. "Here, watch." She held my gaze and in my mind, I saw me, sleeping. Bella's hand was gliding through my hair as she purred quietly. "That was me watching you sleep last night."
"Must be boring," I deadpanned.
"No. You have the most beautiful dreams, Edward. I try to give you your privacy, but I've forgotten what it was like to dream and now I can, with you," she murmured.
"What's it like to see my dreams?" I asked, intrigued on how she perceived my thoughts as I slept.
"They're disjointed but they all have one focus," she whispered, smiling slightly, "me."
"That's because you are my dream girl," I said quietly, cupping her cold face with my hand. "I never imagined finding you…"
"Me neither," she whispered.
"Bella, ever since you walked into my life two weeks ago…God, it's been two weeks…it seems much longer," I mused. She giggled. "Anyhow, I've known that you were special. At the time, it was an inexplicable pain in my chest that miraculously went away when you came back to me. At the time, it was the need to love and cherish you. And now, I can't imagine my life, human or otherwise, without you."
"Edward…"she murmured.
"Isabella Marie Swan, I promise to love you forever. For eternity. I never want to be without you, angel. Would you do me the distinguished honor of marrying me?"I asked as I slid to my knee in front of her. I held up her grandmother's ring, watching as her red eyes twinkled along with the blue diamond. Fat tears fell out of her eyes and she held her hands up to her face.
I know that ring. I remember it, Bella thought to me. Where did you get it?
Jasper was the executor of your parents' wills. This was left to you. He gave it to me to propose to you, Bella. Besides, you're leaving me hanging, I chuckled mentally, staring into her scarlet orbs.
"Yes," she whispered, smiling brilliantly.
I let out a breath and took her left hand into mine. Reverently, I pushed her grandmother's ring onto her hand, kissing it softly. I looked up at her, taking her face into my hands. As my lips touched hers, I mentally said that I loved her with all of my heart. All of my soul. With everything that I was, I loved her.
"I can't believe this," Bella cooed over her ring. "Jasper had it all this time?"
"Yeah and now it's yours," I said as I sat in my chair, pulling my fiancée into my lap. As we sat, I gently pressed innocent kisses to her shoulders. We listened to the quiet music.
"Edward? Are you upset that you couldn't get me a ring?" Bella asked as she kissed my temple.
"I was. At first," I answered honestly. "It's not like I didn't have the money and having Jasper buy the ring for me felt all sorts of wrong. When he said that he had your grandmother's ring, I knew that it was your ring. Besides, I have all eternity to buy you jewelry."
"Edward…"Bella frowned.
"No, Bella," I said as I looked at her. "I know what I want. I want you. I want to be like you. I've spoken with Jasper about what that entails. I've made arrangements with my business. I've written letters to my mom and Rich. Now, it doesn't have to be today…tonight, but I want to be changed. I want to be a vampire. Please, angel?"
"You don't know what you're asking, Edward," she whimpered. "The constant burn in your throat. Never changing…becoming a monster."
"Bella, why can't you believe me when I tell you that you're NOT a monster," I said fervently "You can never be a monster. You're the epitome of what's good in the world. You have a conscience. You're capable of love. And as for the constant burn, you can show me. Right?"
"I can. But not tonight," she sighed. "I want to be with you. Forget about the looming drama of Victoria and her crazy."
"Okay," I said, nuzzling her neck. "Dance with me?" She nodded and got up from my lap. I pulled her into my arms. Bella leaned her cheek against my chest, sighing against my body. The music changed and Percy Sledge's 'When a Man Loves a Woman.' Perfect.
When a man loves a woman
Can't keep his mind on nothing else
He'll trade the world
For the good thing he's found
If she's bad he can't see it
She can do no wrong
Turn his back on his best friend
If he put her down
When a man loves a woman
Spend his very last dime
Tryin' to hold on to what he needs
He'd give up all his comfort
Sleep out in the rain
If she said that's the way it ought to be
Well, this man loves a woman
I gave you everything I had
Tryin' to hold on to your precious love
Baby, please don't treat me bad
When a man loves a woman
Down deep in his soul
She can bring him such misery
If she plays him for a fool
He's the last one to know
Lovin' eyes can't ever see
When a man loves a woman
He can do no wrong
He can never own some other girl
Yes when a man loves a woman
I know exactly how he feels
'Cause baby, baby, baby, you're my world
When a man loves a woman...
While we danced, we were not human and vampire. We were a man and a woman. Celebrating our engagement.
While we kissed, we were not a human and a vampire. We were lovers, exploring each other with our mouths.
While we touched, we were not a human and a vampire. We were two people. Very much in love with each other.
"I love you, my angel," I whispered against her hair.
"I love you, too, Edward," she murmured. I stifled a yawn which caused Bella to laugh. "Tired, love?"
"Yeah," I chuckled. "Preparing what I wanted to say and the nerves of you possibly saying no? Completely bushed. But, apparently, Alice set up a little oasis for us."
"I see that," Bella smiled. I bent down and scooped her into my arms. Bella squealed and wrapped her arms around neck. It's weird to have someone sweep me off my feet. Compared to me, you're so soft and breakable. I keep forgetting that you can lift me.
"Bella, you weigh nothing," I answered. "I'm shocked that you can pick me up."I carried her to the tent set up about twenty feet away from the gazebo. I placed her on the ground and she wandered around inside. Then she saw what Alice left for her. I blushed. Bella walked over to the bed and picked up the slip of fabric, wrinkling her nose. "I can give you my shirt once I change," I rambled. "Sleeping in a suit is NOT a pleasant experience. My friend Peter got married and I stood up for his wedding. I got completely shitfaced and ended up crashing in my tuxedo. I smelled and every bone in my body was killing me."
"Where did you sleep?" Bella asked, arching a perfect brow.
"On the floor of my hotel room," I replied sheepishly.
"Then, the tuxedo did not have anything to do with your bones hurting. The fact that you fell asleep on the ground did," she said, giggling.
"Hush," I chided playfully. "I can still give you my shirt if you'd prefer."
"No. I want to look beautiful for you," she said shyly.
"You always do," I answered honestly. She was the most gorgeous woman, inside and out. Bella looked at me and turned to remove her dress. The royal blue fabric fell from her body and she was completely naked underneath her dress. She turned, looking over her shoulder before she put the navy blue sheer nightgown onto her body. My suit pants were now painfully tight as I watched her get dressed, the navy chiffon falling around her creamy thighs, barely covering her perfect ass.
I turned and removed my suit coat, tossing it onto the chair in the tent. Bella was in front of me, toying with my buttons of my shirt. "Jesus," I breathed.
"Can I help you?" she asked, looking up at me through her lashes. "I know you're perfectly capable of undressing yourself, but I want to. Please?"
I swallowed and nodded. I knew we weren't going to make love tonight but I was wound so tight. I felt like a virgin all over again. I lost my virginity when I graduated from college. I was struggling with the death of my father and one of my classmates got me drunk at a graduation party. Yes, I was only eighteen but it felt good to drown my sorrows in beer. She then took advantage of me. We ended up at her apartment and I lost my virginity with a pair of beer goggles on. I woke up the next morning, naked, hung over and ashamed. I left the girl a note and never saw her again.
Back to the beautiful woman in front of me, she was slowly unbuttoning my shirt and watching me intently. Once my shirt was unbuttoned she dropped her gaze to my chest. With a feather light touch, she pushed my shirt off my shoulders. I shivered. Are you cold, love? She asked mentally.
I'm fine, I answered, cupping her beautiful face. Perfect, really. "Don't stop, angel."
She smiled and reached up to my mouth, kissing me chastely before she moved back to her task at hand. Her fingers glided over my shoulders, tracing my collarbones. Gently moving down my chest, she circled my nipples, causing them to pebble. My breathing picked up as she leaned forward, kissing my right nipple. She giggled. Your chest hair tickles my nose, she said. "So soft."
"My chest hair?"I snorted.
"It's like silk," she replied as her fingers danced along my ribs. Her cold touch caused my skin to erupt in goose flesh. Her lips continued gently kissing my chest as if to memorize my body. Once she reached my scar from when I had my appendix out when I was fourteen, she frowned. "What happened here?"
"I had my appendix removed. I was really sick," I frowned. "But, I was fine after I had surgery."
"How sick were you?" she asked.
"I wasn't sure what was wrong with me and waited to the very last minute to tell my mom that I was sick. I was running a high grade fever and my appendix was very close to bursting," I answered. "I spent nearly a week in the hospital because I had the more invasive surgery."
"Could you have died?" Bella nearly shrieked, gripping my arms.
"If I hadn't gotten medical attention, yes," I said as crushed her to my chest.
"No, no, I can't lose you," she sobbed.
"You won't," I soothed as I ran my fingers through her hair.
"No, I won't," she said as she looked at me, crawling onto the bed. She knelt on it and took my face into her hands. I will change you, Edward. I cannot be without you, love.
"When?" I begged.
"Not tonight," she frowned. "I want to spend the night in your arms, feeling your warmth all around me. It's the closest I can feel to being human."
"Okay," I smiled. "I love you, angel. If I can give you a flavor of humanity, I'll gladly give it to you." She jumped into my arms, wrapping her legs around my waist. I buried my nose into her neck, kissing her earlobe. I turned and sat down on the bed with Bella's knees straddling my legs. She kissed me, pressing her cool lips to mine. Her fingers tangled into my hair. Our kisses moved from soft and sweet to heated and passionate. I sucked her bottom lip between my teeth causing her to moan wantonly.
"Edward," she sighed. She pulled away, causing me to groan inwardly. I wanted to make her feel good. I wanted to give her pleasure.
Why did you pull away? I asked, afraid that my physical voice would betray my disappointment.
"I don't want to, Edward," she replied. "I want nothing more than to kiss you for the rest of my existence. I want to lose myself in your embrace. I want to make love to you but I'm overwhelmed right now."
"Show me," I said. "Show me, please? Show me what you're feeling?"
Forgive me, Edward, she cried mentally. As she said that, the worst sore throat I'd ever endured spread. My eyes widened and I couldn't even imagine how she could survive this. The fire in my throat intensified. Bella's red eyes filled with tears and they fell onto her cheeks. My hand reached up to my throat, trying in vain to douse the agony.
"That's how it is?" I croaked out.
"No. It's worse," she answered, releasing my throat from the fire. "Your human body couldn't handle what we truly feel. But, our bodies handle the pain differently. I'd endure it to be with you, Edward. I love you so much."
"I love you more," I said as I took her tiny face into my hands.
She smiled sadly as she traced my face. You're tired. You should rest.
"I am tired, but I don't want to sleep," I answered. "Can we cuddle at least? Will that be too much for you?"
"No. I love cuddling with you," she smiled. "Why don't you finish dressing and then we'll cuddle." Bella got up from my lap and moved to dim the lights in the tent. It was pretty toasty in the tent and so I decided to not put on the pajamas that Alice had left me. I stripped down to my boxer briefs. I lay down on the bed, staying above the covers. "Aren't you going to get cold?"
"I'll be fine," I smirked. "Come here, angel."
She ducked her head and climbed into the bed. She put her head onto my chest. With a quiet sigh, she nestled closer. "You've made me so happy, Edward. For the first time in my existence, I feel like I have something to live for. I don't feel lonely anymore."
"Bella, you won't be lonely. I promise to never leave," I smiled, caressing her face. "I may have just put that ring on your finger, but I'm yours forever. Besides, a certain brunette goddess insisted that she needed a ring before you would consider me your husband."
"Well, I have a ring but you don't," she quipped.
"It never ends does it," I snickered. "I just can't win with you."
"No, you can't," she smirked. "But we'll figure something out."
"Sooner rather than later, Bella," I whispered. I can't wait to spend an eternity with you.
And more…she said mentally, kissing my lips. And more.
A/N: So what did you think about our glimpse into our dear Humanward's mind? The proposal? His request to be made into a vampire?
Now, I know that this story is rated M but there hasn't been a lot of 'smexy times.' However, in retrospect, after Bella's recent discovery of her attack, would you want smexy times? Anyhoo…There will be lemons. I promise you. Just have a little faith. Up next will be the return of Emmett and Rosalie and solving the problem about the lack of ring on Edward's finger. Pictures of Bella's engagement ring, the gazebo, tent and their outfits are on my blog, link is on my profile. Also, check out my facebook group: Tufano79 Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation. Extra teasers, pictures, and good times are had there! The more the merrier. Leave me some!