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.
Chapter Nine
BPOV
That night after Edward proposed to me, I watched him sleep. I also watched his very vivid dreams. They were all circling around our wedding and trying to make it happen as quickly as possible. I purred quietly as I held him close, scratching his scalp. Edward smiled as he cuddled around me.
Everything about him was perfection. He was a good, kind and loving soul. His heart was strong and his love for me was infallible. As was mine for him. However, I was troubled about his request to be a vampire. Yes, we couldn't do much physically until he was changed. I'd heard stories about succubi where the men's penises were hacked off while she came. I'm sorry, but Edward will remain intact.
Bella, Alice called to me mentally. Tear yourself away from your fiancée so I can talk to you!
"Alice, no," I hissed. "I'm mad at you. Really, a navy blue negligee?"
Hush! You look hot in it, she chided. "Come on! Five minutes tops. Then you can go back to cuddling with your Edward," she smirked as she poked her head into the tent. I rolled my eyes and extricated myself from Edward's tight hold. He moaned and frowned in his sleep.
I love you, Edward. I'll be right back, I soothed mentally before I kissed his forehead.
His scowl deepened as he tightened his hold on the pillow. Don't. Leave. His lower lip jutted out adorably and he rolled onto his stomach, grumbling quietly. I kissed his lower lip and left the tent, throwing on Edward's dress shirt over my negligee. The cold didn't bother me but I still have some decorum.
"What, Alice?" I asked, as I arched a brow. "I love you, but I'd rather be in there."
"I just want to plan your wedding," she smiled. "I'll handle everything."
"Alice, I trust you. Plan what you want except I don't want a big poufy dress," I said, wrinkling my nose.
"Okay," she squealed as she bounced on her toes. "Bridesmaids?"
"You," I answered as I crossed my arms over my chest. "What about groomsmen?"
"Emmett, of course," Alice said.
"He's too new. He'll devour Edward," I frowned.
"Not if you shield him. Try keeping Edward under your shield during the ceremony," Alice suggested.
"That would be hell for me," I growled. "I love Edward but he is still my singer. I'll shield Emmett. I'll just have to hunt prior to the ceremony."
"Also, Jasper offered to walk you down the aisle," Alice said with a soft, sad smile. "Carlisle will officiate. When he was alive, his father was an ordained minister and demanded Carlisle be the same."
"Almost everyone here is going to be involved in the wedding," I explained.
"I've chartered a plane for Edward's parents. It will be his final good bye. After this, he will have to die in their eyes. Also, Eleazar, Carmen, Kate, Garrett, Irina and Laurent are coming. They are our cousins from Denali. They're vegetarians, like us. Well, Laurent is a quasi-vegetarian. He's getting used to our diet and struggles."
"I have a question, Alice. What about Victoria?" I asked. "Does she know?"
"No. She's fallen off the radar. I was able to 'track her' when Emmett was with her but now, nothing," she frowned. "Hopefully, she won't be able to figure out where we are. I'll keep my eyes peeled for her but it's tough. I hate being blind."
"My fear is that she's watching Edward's parents and they suddenly disappear to the upper peninsula in Michigan; she's going to figure it out," I said. Alice's mind was shifting through several vision and then she decided to have them switch planes in New York before coming here. "Better, but I'm still worried."
"Me, too," Alice sighed. "Anyhow, your wedding is happening in a week. This very spot. And you trust me?"
"Yes," I chuckled. "But no craziness like doves or a big band."
"Small and intimate," she smiled. "See you in the morning." Alice hugged me and darted away, giggling as she ran away. I chuckled and went back into the warm tent. I shirked the shirt from my shoulders and crawled back into bed. Edward was lying on his side, holding my pillow. I moved the pillow and wriggled into his arms. When he felt me, his sleeping face broke into a crooked grin and buried his nose into my hair.
"My Bella," he mumbled as he kissed my neck before falling back into a deep sleep.
The next morning, some comfortable clothes were left outside of our tent. I heard Alice drop them off around four in the morning. Edward woke up slightly grouchy and a little sore since I had squeezed him a little too tight during the night during one very erotic dream. His ribs were slightly bruised from my embrace and I was hating myself, beating myself up for hurting him. Edward wouldn't let me focus on it too long, though. He dipped me in an unexpected kiss, saying that he loved that I had 'marked him' with my own mark. I scowled at him, saying it was a bruise. I hurt him. He smirked and said that it was my way of ensuring I was his. I didn't truly understand his logic but he was the oddest human I'd ever met. Other than his step dad.
The tent and gazebo were dismantled. With the help of Jasper, Alice, Carlisle and Esme, it was loaded into Edward's car. What didn't fit in the car was toted back in the arms of four very strong vampires. Edward drove us back to the cabin, holding my hand the entire time.
Where the hell is everyone? I can smell my family and that human but they're missing, Rosalie was thinking. If Rosalie was back, so was Emmett. I held my breath and slammed my shield around Edward and myself so Emmett can stay out of bloodlust.
"Bella, why is your scent intensified?" Edward asked. "Not that I'm not complaining. I love the way you smell, but it's so much stronger."
I didn't answer vocally. That would require me to breathe. I've shielded you, Edward. Emmett and Rose are back. I'm too far to shield him so I'm shielding with me.
"Why aren't you talking?" he frowned.
Remember you're my singer? You can smell how intense my scent is. Imagine your scent to me, I frowned.
"Fuck," Edward spat. "I'm so sorry, Bella." I took his hand in mine, lacing my fingers with his. I stared into his eyes, shaking my head now. "Are you okay?"
I'm fine. Not breathing right now. Hence, no talking. Once we get close enough to Emmett, I'll transfer the shield, I smiled, kissing his cheek. Back at the cabin, Edward parked the car. Emmett approached with Rosalie, holding her close. I carefully molded the shield around Emmett and removed it from Edward. It was pretty seamless. Emmett's mind only registered the scent of Edward for a moment before it was gone. "Congratulations, you two," I said. "How was Canada?"
"Amazing," Emmett bellowed. "And the scenery was okay. But, Rosie made it more beautiful. Right, baby?"
"Yeah, baby," Rosalie cooed. "I hear congratulations are in order for you as well, Bella. I could hear Alice yammering on about a wedding?"
"Um, yeah," I laughed nervously. I held up my left hand and twinkling in the diffused sunlight was my grandmother's ring. "Edward proposed last night."
"Isn't that a little fast, Edward?" Emmett asked. "You've known her for what a week?"
"Shut up," Edward hissed. "I love her and it hurts to be away from her. How would you feel if you couldn't be next to Rosalie?" Emmett's hand reached for his chest and he started panicking. "That's what I thought. And apparently we've got some deep connection and it hurts even more when we're apart. So, back the fuck off."
"Jesus, Eddie. Calm down. You must have gotten laid. I'm surprised you're so pissy," Emmett snarled, dropping to a crouch. I hissed and jumped in front of Edward. I could see the vision of Edward and I making love in Emmett's head. However, that could not happen. Not yet. Besides, I was so fearful with the recent revelations about my past of what our relationship would be like. "Protecting him, Bella? You can't beat me. I'm a newborn. And if I remember, you lost an arm in our initial meeting." His mind was reeling in bloodlust despite the fact that Edward was shielded. But I was the target.
"Emmett, calm down," Rose chided.
"No! Edward is not ready for this and his temper is pissing me off!" Emmett growled. I zinged Emmett with a feeling of intense pain. He howled. "BITCH!"
"You do not understand, Emmett," I said quietly. "You just don't."
"Don't call her a bitch, you ass," Edward snapped, pushing against me. I turned and forced him to his knees. What are you doing, Bella?
Don't move, Edward. Do you want to get yourself killed?
In that brief moment, Emmett charged against me and threw me easily. I flipped and landed on the roof of the house. Focusing my mind on Emmett, I forced some pretty substantial pain to him and he growled, jumping onto the roof. By this time, Alice arrived with everyone else. She scooped up Edward and the rest of the Cullens were on my roof trying to subdue Emmett. I removed my shield from him so he could receive the calming waves that Jasper was sending. I tried to implant an idea into his head that Edward wanted this. He wanted us.
It wasn't until Rose touched him that he relaxed. She took his face in her hands. "Emmy, you have to stop. Edward is feeling what you feel for me," she explained. "Do you want to take away what he has with Bella?"
"It's because of her that I'm this way," he growled, pushing toward me. Rose narrowed her eyes at me. "Victoria told me that it was the fact that Bella encroached on her turf that she felt threatened."
"Emmett, listen to me," Carlisle said calmly. Bella, go to Edward. I'll calm Emmett down. Your presence is only exacerbating the situation. I nodded and flipped off the roof. Inhaling deeply, I found Alice and Edward's scents and took off after them. Roughly ten miles away, I could hear Alice's thoughts and Edward's yelling.
"I need to get back to her, Alice. Come on!" Edward snarled.
"She's here, Edward," Alice laughed. I slipped into the small meadow and saw Alice sitting on Edward's lap, physically restraining him. He's awfully strong for a human, Bella. He'll definitely make a beautiful vampire. I laughed and nodded. "Stay, Edward." He growled. "Good human."
"You suck, Alice," Edward grumbled as Alice got up. She darted off and I ran toward him, taking Alice's spot on his lap. "Oh, thank you GOD!" he sighed as he wrapped his arms around my waist. "Are you okay? Did Emmett hurt you?"
"I'm fine," I answered. "Emmett is battling some residual connection to Victoria. She apparently filled his mind with lies that I was hunting you and Emmett. That I was encroaching on her territory."
"Were you?"
"In reality, probably. But, I didn't know that the club was her territory. I focused my hunts on locations of high crime so my kills were not easily recognized."
"How did you disguise your kills?" Edward asked, his ears pinking up. He was nervous about asking me.
"Are you sure that you want to know?" I asked, arching a brow. He nodded and kissed me softly on my lips. "Sometimes I'd stage the scene as a mugging gone wrong. I would have to be aware that I couldn't drain the body completely. I had to leave roughly half of the blood inside of the body. If didn't remember to leave some blood, I'd have to burn the bodies in a dumpster or dismember them."
"And this is all you knew prior to trying to be a 'vegetarian'?"
"Yes. It was a sad existence, but the only way I could survive," I said, ashamed of my life.
Bella, don't beat yourself up. You could have lost your humanity but you didn't. You were able to live amongst humans and pass yourself as one of them. In addition to that, you only hunted the worst of the worse, he soothed as he wrapped his arms around my waist. "Stop blaming yourself. I love you, baby, even though you were a human-drinking vampire. I'll probably slip but you'll be there to guide me back. You're beautiful and loving and amazing."
"Thank you, Edward," I whispered as I moved on his lap to straddle his waist. "I'm trying to look at it differently, but a life is a life. And I'll be taking one more when you're changed."
"Bella, this is a conscious decision I'm making. I cannot imagine a world without you in it. I need to be with you, angel," he frowned. "I want you. Only you. You're my future. My present. My everything, angel. My absolute dream. Now, Emmett…why did he react that way?"
"Emmett is a newborn. He's battling so many different things right now. His new mind is processing so much faster than he's used to. In addition to that, he's emotional, volatile and in constant state of agitation. Then add the stress of having a human nearby, he's in bloodlust most of the time as well. Finally, finding his mate adds to his problems as well. He wants to love Rosalie, wants to kill you and still has some strange loyalty to Victoria. Couple all of that with his ever-changing moods and yeah…Emmett's a mess."
"Will I be like that?" Edward asked, his green eyes filled with panic.
"Everyone is different, Edward," I answered. "I was pretty docile as a newborn but I was still easily agitated. However, Jasper was very patient as a teacher. Plus he has this calming quality about him that I didn't realize was his empathic qualities, you know?"
"Yeah," Edward said as he held me closer to his warm body. "I'm just afraid that I won't be me."
"You will be, Edward," I answered. "However, your personality traits will be intensified. Based on our relationship so far, you're pretty chill and will hopefully transfer to you in your life as a vampire."
"And we'll be able to make love once I'm like you?" Edward asked, his green eyes darkening and a crooked smile breaking over his handsome face.
"Yes," I whispered. "If you don't resent me for biting you."
"Never, angel," he said as he cupped my face with his large hand. "I will always choose you, Bella."
"As I will choose you, too."
xx A&M xx
Alice had taken over my cabin in wedding-planning central. Her and Esme were making all of the necessary arrangements for our upcoming nuptials. Even Rosalie was an active participant in the planning as well. Since her bond to Emmett, she had become more easy-going and even pleasant. I think the biggest part of this was due in part that she was planning her own wedding as well. Emmett had proposed to her, presenting her with an ostentatious ring that was larger than anything I'd ever seen. Apparently, he worked it out with Jasper, Carlisle and Alice to have them purchase ring and once his finances were figured out, he'd pay them back.
Little did he know that I had set him up an account but he wouldn't talk to me to know that fact. He was still pissed off at me and saw me as the enemy since I was Victoria's nemesis in his eyes.
The night before Edward's parents were due to arrive which also happened to be my wedding day, I went hunting with Jasper, Esme, Rose and Emmett. Carlisle and Alice were staying with Edward while I fed. I needed to keep my strength up since I was shielding Emmett despite his hatred of me. We didn't want him to drain Betsy and Richard. That would be really bad.
Taking off in the darkness, we all stayed close together until we reached the Canadian border. Jasper looked at me and said mentally that he was going to go with Emmett. I should follow at a safe distance so we could 'tag-team' him about his feelings. I nodded and they took off. Running slowly, I followed them while they hunted. I fed as well, drinking from some deer and a few moose. I did want to drink from some carnivores, though. But, for now, I'd just be sated with my truly vegetarian meal. Herbivores, blech.
I hopped up into a tree and watched as Jasper and Emmett drank from their meals. Jasper turned to Emmett and frowned at him. "Dude, what's your beef with Bellsy?"
"I don't know. She seems like a great girl but I have this hatred toward her that I can't explain," he said as he fell onto a rotted out tree stump. "She makes Edward happy. I've never seen him like this. Even when he was with his ex-fiancée, Tanya, he was never this giddy."
"You remember your human life?" Jasper asked.
"Bits and pieces. My childhood is a bit of a fog. The past few years are relatively clear," Emmett shrugged. "Anyhow, I remember the night that I met Bella and Victoria clearly. Bella seemed very sweet while Victoria was extremely aggressive. Out of the two of them, I was into Bella. However, my best friend was infatuated with her. Then, I get home from work a couple of days later and Victoria is in my apartment. She sliced my wrist and then she bit down on my neck. I vaguely remembered flying, or what appeared to be flying, to Wisconsin. Finally, Bella appeared a couple days after that to try and convince me that Victoria was the bad guy. But, Victoria did the opposite. Bella was the bad guy."
"Emmett, what Victoria did to you was unspeakable. She is the enemy here. She took away your life without any thought to who she was hurting. You cannot see your family ever again. Your mother believes that you are dead. Bella paid for the funeral. She also arranged for your mother to be cared for the rest of her life," Jasper explained. He knew this since I showed him the information on my computer. "In addition to this, Bella is giving Edward the choice to stay human. He's choosing to be a vampire. He cannot be without her."
"Like I can't be without Rosie?"
"What I feel between them is far more intense," Jasper said. "Your bond with Rose is strong. However, the bond between Edward and Bella is incredible. And they haven't finished their bond."
"What do you mean?" Emmett frowned.
"A couple of reasons. And Bella is okay with you knowing this. It'll help you understand her more. The first reason why they haven't made love is simple. It would hurt Edward. When you and Rose make love, the orgasms are intense. Right?"
"Hell yeah. I feel like Rosie is milking me," Emmett snorted. "Shit, Bella could chop off Edward's wiener?"
"Yep."
Emmett cupped his junk and looked at Jasper with large pleading eyes. "That would suck, man. My best friend would be a eunuch." Emmett thought for a moment. "What's the other reason?"
"Bella's introduction to this world was extremely violent," Jasper said sadly. "Her maker was raping her violently when I interrupted him, forcing him to change her. Bella had no recollection of her change due some fluke or some power that her sire may have."
"If she has no recollection, then how does she know?"
"I told her. I saw it," Jasper said brokenly. "She's been alone for her entire life as a vampire. She stayed with me until she was able to control her thirst then she went out on her own. This is the first time I've seen her truly happy, as well. She's radiating love, joy and happiness. All because of Edward. But, she will not make love to him until he's changed."
"So, when I gave him grief when they announced their engagement, it was like I was rubbing salt in the wound?" Emmett asked, furrowing his brows.
"A bit. Emmett, I don't know how to break this alliance that you have with Victoria, but she's the bad guy. The worst. Bella is good. She thinks of herself as a monster when she is more like what Edward calls her. An angel. Even while she fed off of humans, she fed off the dregs of society. Even though you hate her for whatever reason has been implanted into your brain, she still shields you from Edward and when his parents come, them as well. She has also transferred your money into an account in your name but couldn't tell you since you were being an ass towards her. Emmett, I'm pretty easy-going but this has to stop. It's killing me to feel her guilt and your hatred. Plus Edward's sadness in not being able to talk to you since you're all bitter toward him. He hasn't even had the chance to ask you to be his best man because of your actions."
"Fuck," Emmett grumbled. "How do I make this right?"
"Talk to Bella. Talk to her. Don't try to kill her. If you do, I will kill you for Edward," Jasper snarled. Bellsy, I'm going to go. Wait a few minutes than make your presence known. He's starting accept what you are doing and his feelings are changing. "Stay here and I'll talk to you later, Emmett." Jasper left Emmett sitting on the tree stump.
I watched him and listened to his thoughts process what Jasper had told him. Once he sighed and was ready to accept me, I jumped down from my perch in my tree. I jogged up to him and sat down across from the hulking form of Emmett. "I thought I smelled you," Emmett said as he played with a string on his jeans. "Were you here the entire time?"
"Yes," I answered. "Are you mad?"
"No. Bella, I'm sorry," he whispered. He looked at me and then gazed down at my ring. He reached for my hand, staring at the blue diamond on my finger. "It suits you. Though, Edward must have been a bit miffed about not being able to buy you a ring."
"We have forever to buy each other presents," I said as looked at my ring. "This means more than anything that any store-bought ring would have been. It was my grandmother's."
"Is it true that you didn't remember how you were changed?" Emmett asked, changing the subject abruptly.
"I don't remember anything. The only memory I have is of what Jasper showed me," I cringed. "It was brutal."
"Perhaps it was better than you didn't remember," Emmett said, giving me a sad smile. "No woman should ever be hurt like that." Emmett closed his scarlet eyes and breathed deeply. "Will you forgive me, Bella?"
"I was never mad at you, Emmett. I understand what you're going through," I said as I put my hand on his knee. "The person you need to apologize to is Edward. I wish you could do it by yourself but you can't due to your bloodlust."
"You need to be nearby to protect me from my best friend?" Emmett asked, a deep frown marring his features. I nodded. "Okay…I am still sorry, Bella. In my mind, I know that you're the good guy but I can't get over the information that Victoria shared with me. I see that you love Edward. I see that you are nothing but patient and caring and kind but Victoria painted you to be the monster. But you're not and I can't see past the backwards painting that Victoria drew you in."
"You're loyal to your sire," I shrugged.
"Were you loyal to yours?"
"I don't remember him so I can't be loyal to someone I never met," I answered. "But, Alice and I believe we have the same sire since she doesn't remember her past either. Though, I would hate for sweet Alice to have gone through what I did…"
"Jasper would probably dismember him in a heartbeat," Emmett chuckled darkly.
"Along with Edward," I smirked.
"Speaking of Edward, when do you think you'll change him?" Emmett asked.
"When he asks," I answered. "However, Alice thinks it'll be a situation where I'll have to change him or he'll die. I pray that won't be the case since I want him to be aware of my changing him."
"Don't take this the wrong way but how will you enjoy your wedding night?" Emmett asked, biting his lip.
"That's for us to know and for you to not," I teased. "Come on. Let's try and wrestle some bears. I need some carnivore blood to keep up my strength to shield you from Edward, Betsy and Rich."
"You got it," Emmett smiled as he hopped up. We both took off and ran for a few hours before finding a few black bears. We got back to the cabin around dawn. Alice was scowling at both of us, covered in dirt and leaves. But we were finally working past this hatred Emmett had for me. Plus, the six hours we spent together had given me a chance to explain what I had done for him and his mom. To say he was touched was a vast understatement. He would forever be grateful for my generosity and thoughtfulness for caring for his mom and for taking care of everything. I was finally at peace and happy with the relationship with Emmett.
Back at the cabin, Alice shoved me into the bathroom since it was the morning of my wedding. Carlisle and Edward were picking up Betsy and Rich from the airport. Everyone else was setting up the wedding location where Edward had proposed. "Alice, thank you for setting this all up," I said as she sat me down in my bathroom. She was blow drying my hair.
"Bella, you're my sister," Alice said as she ran her fingers through my long hair. "It's nothing. I live for this sort of thing. Besides, it's been forever since I got to plan a wedding. I hope you like what I have planned for you. It's small, sweet and just what you both would love."
"Any sneak peeks?" I giggled.
"Nope. There's a reason why I'm singing all the show tunes I know in Greek," she smirked as she tugged on my hair. "But, I've seen it. You love it."
I scowled at her playfully. She finished drying my hair and then began curling it with a curling iron. Rosalie breezed in a few moments later. Her golden eyes caught mine. I don't know what you said, but Emmett is much better today. He's not as curmudgeony. I laughed lightly. "Do you need any help, Alice?"
"Her toes," Alice replied.
"You can do her toes," Rosalie snorted. "You're short. I'll finish her hair."
"Fine," Alice sighed. Rosalie took the curling iron and Alice was sitting my feet, painting my toes a deep pink. My hair was almost done when Alice inhaled deeply. "Edward and his family are here. Shield Emmett."
"Where is he?"
"Next door. He's watching some television," Rosalie answered as she pinned up the last piece of hair. I focused on Emmett's thoughts and wrapped my shield around him. Shortly after I did that, I heard the car pull up and the quiet voices of Edward, Carlisle and Edward's parents. "I'm going to check on him and pull him out if need be. He's gotten used to Edward's scent but the addition of two other people may prove to be too much for him."
"Thanks, Rosalie," I smiled.
"Rose," she said as she hugged me. "Welcome to the family, Bella." With that, she left the room and Alice finished my beautification process. Rose did need to pull Emmett out of the house as he struggled with the heartbeats of Betsy and Rich. It would be easier in the open air where the sound did not reverberate inside of the house.
"Before I put you in your dress, Bella, Edward's mom wants to speak to you," Alice said. "She has something for you. When she's gone, I have your present from Edward. I'll be back." Alice left the room and smiled as Betsy walked in.
"I just knew that Edward was head over heels for you," Betsy snickered as she came in and sat on the chair in my bedroom. "I just didn't realize how much so. But, you're the right woman for him."
Am I? I thought. I'm taking him away from his mom…
"I can see your mind reeling, Bella. It's okay," she said as she took my hand into hers. Her green eyes pierced through mine and she saw my scarlet orbs. "I know what you are. Edward explained it to me and how you are mated…Now, I know that it means that can't see my son as often as I'd like, but I'll know that he's safe and happy with you."
"I'm so sorry, Betsy," I said quietly. "I never meant…"
"You can't control who you love, sweetheart," she said. "Now, I know that Edward will have to 'die' in the eyes of the world, but I'll know that he'll be with you forever and that's all I can ever want for my son. He's happy. He's in love and he's finally found the one person that will love him in return; no questions asked. I also know that we need to keep your secret. I can promise you that we will. If that secret allows me to see Edward periodically, then I will keep it until I die."
"I can't give you grandchildren," I muttered.
"But you're giving my son eternal life. As much as I would like grandkids, I'd rather have my baby boy live forever," Betsy explained. "Now, Edward didn't say much about your life prior your meeting but he did say that your parents were dead. The only family you have is Jasper. I would like to consider you as a daughter, Bella. I may not have given birth to you, but I love you like you were one of my own. Besides, I have some jewelry that I would like to give to my daughter. It matches your ring." Betsy picked up my hand and stared at the light peacock blue diamond. "My grandfather was very rich, Bella. He gave my grandmother a very ornate necklace which was passed down to my mom who gave it to me. In her will, she explained that I needed to give it to my daughter, but I only had Edward. If he were gay, I'd give him this necklace but obviously he's not. So, I'm giving it to you." She placed a large velvet box on my lap. "Also, I would have never given this to Tanya. She's a bitch and would probably hock this. Ungrateful wench."
"Don't hold back, Betsy," I snorted.
"Trust me. I'm not," she deadpanned. "Open it up."
I opened up the box and nestled inside was a diamond necklace with white marquise shaped diamonds with a large oval peacock blue diamond as the pendant. "This is gorgeous," I whispered. "Thank you…I'm in shock."
"Good," she chirped as she hopped up and took the necklace out of the box. She carefully lifted my curled hair while I put the necklace on. With her fingers, she clasped it around my neck and smoothed my curls down. "Beautiful, Bella. It suits you. And, call me mom."
"Thank you, Mom," I whispered. I got up and wrapped my arms around her. She gently swayed us as I tried to keep my venomous tears from falling. "I promise to keep Edward safe."
"Thank you for making him so happy, Bella," she said back. She pulled back and wiped her cheeks. "I'm going to get finish getting ready. I'll see you later."
"I'll be the one in white," I quipped. Betsy laughed and kissed my cheek. Her mind was filled with happiness for Edward and me. With a wink, Betsy left and I went to put on the underwear that Alice left out for me. No bra, thankfully. However, my panties were barely there. What was the point of wearing them? I shrugged and pulled them up my legs and put the robe back on around my body. Alice came back awhile later holding a bag. She was smiling softly as she skipped to my spot on the bed.
"Did you have a nice talk with Betsy?" she asked.
"I did. She knows," I answered.
"I know. Edward asked if it was going to be a problem last night if he told them and I checked for their futures and it didn't appear to be an issue. I'm glad, too. Edward shouldn't have to lose his family yet. Jasper explained that Betsy and Rich are fiercely loyal and would never compromise our safety. Carlisle trusts them implicitly as well. So, it's a good thing. However, it will be around a year or so after today that Edward will be able to see them, though."
"But at least he'll see them," I said, giving her a tender smile.
"Anyhow, this is from your hubby to be," Alice smirked. She handed me the bag and smiled knowingly. "I'm going to get your dress ready. I'll get you when I'm done."
"Thanks, Alice," I said as I tore into the bag. Inside there was a card and rectangular box. I opened the card first. It was an elegant wedding card from Edward. He had written a poem, or rather, borrowed a poem to express his love for me.
Dearest Bella,
I'm not very wordy or romantic so I had to get some help for your wedding card. I searched through several websites before stumbling onto this poem. It perfectly describes how I feel for you, my angel. I can't wait to have you be my wife. I love you with all of my heart, my soul and my life.
Love is
being happy for the other person
when they are happy
being sad for the other person when they are sad
being together in good times
and being together in bad times
Love is the source of strength
Love is
being honest with yourself at all times
being honest with the other person at all times
telling, listening, respecting the truth
and never pretending
Love is the source of reality
Love is
an understanding that is so complete that
you feel as if you are a part of the other person
accepting the other person just the way they are
and not trying to change them to be something else
Love is the source of unity
Love is
the freedom to pursue your own desires
while sharing your experiences with the other person
the growth of one individual alongside of
and together with the growth of another individual
Love is the source of success
Love is
the excitement of planning things together
the excitement of doing things together
Love is the source of the future
Love is
the fury of the storm
the calm of the rainbow
Love is the source of passion
Love is
giving and taking in a daily situation
being patient with each other's needs and desires
Love is the source of sharing
Love is
knowing that the other person
will always be with you regardless of what happens
missing the other person when they are away
but remaining near in heart at all times
Love is the source of security
Love is the
source of life
-Susan Polis Schutz-
Yeah, this woman, Susan Polis Schutz…she rocks. She was able to put into words how I feel for you, Bella. I'm so happy that you said yes and that you came into my life. I will always love you and will never regret anything in regards to the decisions I've made about my life.
I can't wait to take every step with you, Mrs. Masen.
I love you always,
Edward
Tears were falling down my cheeks as I ran my fingers along the elegant script of Edward's handwriting. With a sigh, I turned to the box and carefully opened it. Tucked on the deep blue satin was an elegant bracelet that matched my ring and the new necklace around my neck. There was a small sheet of paper inside with a short note from Edward.
Mrs. Masen,
Before you freak out, this matches your grandmother's ring along with my mom's gift to you. Jasper found it online. I purchased it once I saw it, knowing it was perfect for you. Consider this to be the first of many, MANY presents for you, my angel. You deserve the world and I intend to give it to you.
Besides, what's mine is yours and vice versa, right?
Love you,
Mr. Masen
"Damn, he's good," Alice snickered from her spot by the door. "I knew he bought something online since he asked Jasper to go with him to the post office a few days ago. However, I didn't know he bought you the crown jewels."
"Oh, hush," I chided as I slid the bracelet on my left wrist, covering my scar where I was changed. "I can't believe that this is happening."
"It is, chickadee," Alice laughed. I looked over at her and noticed that she was wearing a long, strapless, navy blue dress with a hot pink sash around her waist. "And it's time for you to get dressed into your gown. I hope you like it. It's not a big poufy dress, as requested."
"Good," I said as I stood up. "If it's sleek like yours, we'll be in good shape."
"Yours has more volume, but not much," Alice said as she pulled me into the bedroom where my dress was hanging. It was a strapless, white gown with a navy blue sash around the bodice, held in place with a large, diamond pin. "I had to special order this but it should fit." In a flash, I was in my gown with Alice zipping me up. She started squealing and then darted to the closet, pulling out a pair of hot pink heels that matched hers. I put them on and Alice pinned in my veil. I was dressed and ready to go. We headed downstairs where Jasper was waiting for me and his mate. He hugged me close, sharing his happiness for me mentally as he was a mess. I thanked him and returned his embrace before we got into Edward's car.
Jasper drove us to the ceremony site. Carefully, I got out of the car and we walked to the location where my wedding would be taking place. I could hear some quiet music and soft voices, mental and otherwise. Carlisle must have registered our scents and the music changed. Alice picked up her pink and navy blue bouquet before handing me mine and glided down the aisle. Jasper looped my arm through his and he smiled at me. "He'll love you forever, Bellsy."
"As I will love him," I answered. "Thank you, Jas, for being here. For walking me down the aisle. How's Emmett?"
"In complete control. He is holding his breath and hasn't said a word. Once you get up by the altar, give him some relief, will ya? His nerves are kicking my ass," Jasper snorted as he led me down the aisle. I nodded and squeezed Jasper's arm. He patted my hand as we walked toward the gazebo where Edward, Emmett, Carlisle and Alice were standing. Alice was literally vibrating in excitement while Edward was just staring at me. His emerald eyes were as wide as saucers when he saw me. I know I probably looked the same, seeing him in a navy blue tuxedo with a hot pink rose pinned to his lapel.
So beautiful, Edward thought to me. There are no words, Bella. You are truly an angel, my love. His mind moved to a vision of me with wings in my wedding dress. If I could blush, I would have. Instead, I ducked my head and tightened my hold on Jasper.
We reached the gazebo and I carefully wrapped my shield around Emmett. I sent him a brief message: Breathe. He released his breath and smiled when all he could smell was me. Thanks, Bella, he thought gratefully. I winked at him and waited for Carlisle to begin the ceremony.
"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the union of marriage between Edward Masen and Isabella Swan. Who gives this woman to this man?" Carlisle asked, smiling at me.
"Acting as her only family, I do," Jasper said as he kissed my temple. I'm so happy for you, Bellsy. You deserve it. You deserve him. He loves you so much. Jasper took my hand and placed it in Edward's warm palm. "Take care of her, Edward."
"I promise, Jasper," Edward said reverently. Jasper stares at him for a moment and then takes a seat next to Esme. Edward turned to me and his cheeks were covered in a soft pink blush. You are so unbelievably gorgeous, Bella. I can't believe that you're mine.
Always, Edward, I murmured mentally, lacing my fingers with his.
"Now, the couple has written their own vows and would like to share them with each other. Bella, you're first," Carlisle said.
I handed my bouquet to Alice and turned to face Edward. There is so much more that I want to say, Edward. But I'll keep it brief for the sake of your family and 'mine.' "Edward, I never expected to find you. I went through the motions of my life, never really enjoying anything. I had been alone for so long and I had resigned myself to be alone for the rest of my days. Then, I met you at a club in Chicago. Your looks are what caught my attention but your mind is what reeled me in. Never in my life had I listened to such pure thoughts. Then, we touched and I knew." I felt it. That spark.
The connection, Edward added.
Yes. "Your soul was created just for me. And my soul was created for you. We are soul mates. The love I felt for you was instantaneous. I knew that I was going to be your forever. But, I was so afraid that you would not want me. Thankfully, despite our differences, we're here, standing before friends and family, proclaiming our eternal love for each other. I can't wait to start our life together and always know that I will love you. Forever, Edward," I whispered. Venomous tears fell over my cheeks and Alice handed me a hanky. I dabbed my cheeks and smiled at him.
"Edward, your turn," Carlisle said as he looked at him.
"Right," Edward said. "It's taking all of my willpower to not kiss you senseless, Bella. I love you so much and like you, that love was from the moment our hands touched. When we kissed, I knew you were my forever. I never believed in love at first sight. I was too logical and analytical to understand it. I'd rather pay attention to the science behind it than live it. But, when I met you, that all went away. You filled my mind, my heart and my soul. Your love gave me hope and I never wanted to leave your side. Now, I won't have to. I'm so honored that you said yes to my proposal and I look forward to each new challenge with my soul mate, my best friend and my lover by my side. You are my dream girl and I love you, Isabella. I promise to give happiness for the rest of our days together. I promise to protect you from the badness in the world. I promise to never hurt you and to love you for all eternity."
"Emmett, may I have the rings, please?" Carlisle asked. Emmett nodded stiffly and handed Carlisle a small velvet bag. Shaking the rings out of the bag, he placed his hand over them on the bible. In his mind, he rambled something in Latin before turning to us. "Bella, please take this ring and place it on Edward's left hand." Carlisle handed me a filigreed platinum band with a blue diamond embedded into the inside of the ring. I carefully pushed the ring onto Edward's left ring finger, running my thumb over the delicate but masculine filigree. "Repeat after me, Bella…"
"With this ring, I thee wed," I murmured, "To have and to hold, to love and cherish, in good times and in bad, for all of the days of my life." Edward stared at me and his emerald orbs filled with tears as he mentally chanted that he loved me forever.
"Edward, please this ring and place it on Bella's left hand," Carlisle said, his face beaming. "Repeat after me…"
"With this ring, I thee wed," Edward said reverently as he pushed my wedding band onto my finger, "To have and to hold, to love and cherish, in good times and in bad, for all of the days of my life. I love you, Mrs. Masen," he smirked.
"By power vested in me and for the state of Michigan, I now pronounce you husband and wife," Carlisle said excitedly. Before he could even say that we could kiss, Edward crashed his lips against mine and we're kissing each other feverishly. My hands slid up Edward's muscular shoulders and tangled into his somewhat tamed hair. Edward's arms wrapped around my waist and he lifted me so my feet were not touching the ground. Edward's mind is filled with his love for me and he has it on repeat in his brain. My wife. My Bella. I love you. My angel. I love you so much. So much. I'm never letting you go. My Bella. My beautiful, loving, caring Bella.
"Um, you guys?" Alice chirped. "You're making the crowd uncomfortable."
Pulling apart, Edward is breathing heavily as he cupped my face. I was breathing heavily because I was thoroughly kissed and I loved it. Carlisle was laughing behind me and Alice was bouncing on her toes as she handed me my bouquet. "For the first time, I have the pleasure of introducing Mr. and Mrs. Edward and Isabella Masen!"
Edward swept me into his arms and carried me down the aisle, kissing me softly as we walked to the edge of the altar. Jasper has taken control of Emmett. Rose is snapping pictures as we leave the altar and head to a pier. Edward places me onto my feet and we're kissing each other like there's no tomorrow. There is only him. Only us. No one else.
"I can't believe we're married," Edward murmured as he peppered my face with soft, adoring kisses. "I'm yours, Bella. And you're mine. I so fucking happy."
"Me too, Edward," I cooed as I returned his tender kisses. "I love you so much." Then, I laughed. "I feel like I'm being stalked by the paparazzi."
"Why?" he asked. I looked over my shoulder and Rose waved as she snapped more photos. Edward snorted. Then, he dipped me lowly, kissing my neck and moving up to my lips. I laughed wildly as I squirmed in his arms. "Stop wiggling. I don't want to drop you, Mrs. Masen."
"Your hair is tickling me," I laughed.
Edward righted me and he ran his fingers along my face. His eyes were filled with such awe and love; it caused my heart to skip. I wanted to give myself to my husband but I knew we couldn't. The first reason is because I was a vampire. Edward wasn't. The second reason was that I didn't feel ready. "I see you over thinking," Edward said as he poked between my eyes. "What is it?"
"I want you, Edward," I murmured. "I hate that I can't…that we can't…"
"Bella, I want you too. But, you said yourself that it's not safe until I'm changed. We can still do things that aren't sex, angel. And once I am like you, we'll make up for lost time," he chuckled. "Truly consummate our marriage." I don't laugh. Instead, I press my cheek to his chest, honing into his heart. "Bella, I love you, angel. We'll be able to fool around tonight. Don't beat yourself up over this. I'm not upset." I nodded and wrapped my arms around his waist.
"We're needed for some family photos," I whispered against his chest. "This will probably be the last time you'll see your mom for awhile. She and Rich will be staying in a bed and breakfast in town prior to their departure tomorrow afternoon. They're going to spend time with Rich's family for a few days before heading back to Chicago."
"Thank you for getting them for me, Bella," Edward murmured against my hair.
"I'm certain that your parents wanted to see you get married," I said as I pulled away. "But, it was Jasper's idea. He's gotten quite attached to you and he knew that you had some lingering emotions regarding your parents. He didn't want you to not get a chance to say good bye."
Edward kissed me softly. Even if it's Jasper, I still appreciate the sentiment. I'm grateful that I had this time with them. Besides, my mom wanted to be here for her 'daughter' too.
A daughter that is technically older than her, I snorted mentally. Edward rolled his eyes and we headed back to the gazebo. Rose snapped a million photos as Jasper and Emmett set up the 'reception' back at the cabin. After the pictures, I'm introduced to Eleazar, Carmen, Kate, Garrett, Irina and Laurent. They all seemed to be pretty nice but were very leery about the three humans that knew about the existence of vampires. Edward told them that he was determined to be changed and that his mom and step-dad were going to keep the secret to their dying day.
At twilight, Edward helps me into his car and his parents are in the back seat. The rest of our party runs back to my cabin while Edward drives us to the reception. Rich was prattling on about some new lubricant that he wants to give to us as a wedding present. Edward's cheeks pink up and I wanted to crawl into the leather seat of his Volvo. Betsy must of realized our embarrassment as she smacked Rich upside the head and told him to calm down. Rich purred to Betsy that she loved the lube. Especially the night before last.
Edward and I share a look. Ewwwwwww! We both thought. Edward went so far as to shudder. I slammed down my mental block so I didn't have to see Betsy and Rich in various stages of undress. Edward held my hand but he whimpered quietly. It seemed like he was able to see what his parents were throwing at him. I filled my brain with what I wanted to do him once he was changed and his whimpers turned into quiet moans. Stop it, Bella or I won't be held responsible for what I do to you.
Better than what you were getting from your mom and Rich, right? I asked.
How did you know?
You were whimpering and wriggling in your seat, I replied. What did you see?
Just flashes. Nothing concrete but I got some glimpses of my mother's naked boobs and Rich's ass, Edward said as he looked at me briefly. Why is it that I can see their thoughts?
Because you are close to them, I replied. I guess. You can hear me since we have that connection because we're mates. But, with them, you can hear your mom since she gave birth to you. You probably heard Rich through her. Does that make sense?
Kind of, Edward said as he kissed my hand. He pulled up to my cabin and the deck was transformed into a perfect reception for our wedding. Tables were set with navy blue tablecloths with hot pink accents. Near the hot tub, the wedding cake was perched on a small round table covered with same navy tablecloths with pink roses surrounding it. I cringed at the prospect of eating cake, but I'd do it for Edward.
Edward held my hand as we walked to the deck. Everyone congratulated us and despite the fact that a majority of our guests are vampires, champagne is in everyone's glass. There are meals for Edward, Betsy and Rich. The rest of us just mingle while they picked at their meals. After they ate, we went to the cake. Carefully, we cut the cake and fed each other the pieces of cake. Or rather, I fed Edward and he gently swiped some frosting along my lips. We kissed softly as our friends and family applaud our love.
The last thing we did before everyone was going to go was have our first and only dance together as husband and wife. It felt perfect to be in his warm embrace. His lips were gently caressing my shoulder and he swayed me to the quiet music. Edward and I were in a little love bubble and it was perfection.
Until Alice had a vision…
A/N: Cliffy…dun, dun, dun…what do you think Alice had a vision of? How many of you want to throw sharp objects at my head that I keep 'cockblocking' these two? I promise there will be lemons. I swear. Just, be patient. Anyhow, pictures of their wedding and wedding jewelry is on my blog. (Link on my profile). In addition to that, check out my facebook group: Tufano79 Twilight Fanfiction Appreciation. We share extra teasers, Rob porn and just have a good time. Up next will be the result of Alice's vision and some growing drama with Victoria. Also, let me promise you that Betsy and Rich will not be harmed. Their house may not survive, but they will be perfectly safe. Leave me some lovin!