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Esme and Carlisle: How the Love Story Began…

Flowers and Forever

EsPOV

As I climbed the stairs to my second floor bedroom, I could feel Carlisle's eyes watching me.

He made me feel so beautiful and desirable. The way he lavished attention on me made me feel worthy. Foremost, he treated me with respect. Like an equal, instead of a lesser half. How could it be that what I stumbled upon after death was what I had most sought during life?

I didn't look back. Once I reached my room I closed the door quietly behind me and leaned against it releasing a deep sigh. The feeling of warmth and contentment covered me like cozy woolen blanket.

During my human life true love had eluded me like a clever thief. I clung to the belief that if I paid my dues, if I gave of myself and sacrificed until it hurt, I would be rewarded with love. But the more I was willing to give, the more others took, until I had lost myself in the process.

It wasn't until I let everything go – my whole life, did I emerge on the other side with what I was looking for. On the other side was my angel.

I knew this was love as it was meant to be. And that it was real this time. I did not have to sacrifice. I did not have to settle or compromise.

I still had a soul…and it had found its mate.

Caught between wanting to giggle uncontrollably or cry with relief at my good fortune, I rushed to my desk and retrieved my journal. Tonight my reflections would describe a night that would live in my memory forever.

Flopping ungracefully at my desk, I whipped open the drawer containing my journal and let my thoughts and feelings for Carlisle was over me. I rode them joyously like a wave.

He was so kinds, considerate, giving and of course handsome. And I could see in his eyes, he had feelings for me. And while Carlisle always played the role of perfect gentleman, I was noticing a slight change in him. He was becoming a little bolder, more confident in his manner toward me. And it was thrilling!

I felt like a giddy school girl experiencing her first crush as I scribbled down every little detail about how Carlisle looked, how he smelled, the way he moved, and how he held me close. It was a magical evening – every girl's dream. I was the princess at the ball entranced by prince charming.

The thought of running back down those stairs and into his arms consumed me, then I thought better of it.

I had hated to take my leave of him tonight. I wanted the evening to continue, but I was concerned about the strong physical desires that were awakening in me. It had been so long since I was held and touched in an intimate way. I found I wanted that from Carlisle. Tonight – alone in front of a blazing fire.

Yet, it would not be appropriate.

And, Lord, if Edward picked up on these thoughts, how would I ever face him again! Yes, it would be better for me to compose myself in the privacy of my room before I acted on my wants….

Distracted, I closed my journal and walked across the room to my window. The sun was beginning its accent into the morning sky, dimly diluting the darkness of night. It glowed like promise dawning.

A loneliness started to fill me as I knew Carlisle would spend most of this day at the hospital. He worked so hard and with such compassion. When he would return home, I would see the kind of day he had on displayed in the features on his face. Sometimes his eyes were darker, clouded, and I knew it was a day that he had lost the battle against death or disease.

Did he know I could see that? Did he know I wished I could protect him from everything and anything that brought him sadness? It was on those days I promised I would never darken his eyes. On those day prayed I could be the one to bring him joy. This was the gift I wished to give him for all he had given to me.

Lost in my thoughts, I spent several hours in my room, journaling and sketching, before reflecting over certain items in the trunk Carlisle had given me. When I finally made my way downstairs, my head was full of plans for the day. Edward was waiting in the main room for me looking as if something was causing him pain...

"A flower garden?" he questioned. "Are you sure?"

He was always one step ahead…

"Yes. Wouldn't it give the house an inviting look?" I asked, hoping I could convince him of the worthiness of my plan.

"Inviting for whom? We never have visitors."

"I know men like the practical, but…oh, I don't know, I just feel like planting flowers today! Will you help?" I asked exasperated.

"I'll help you haul the flowers from town and dig the holes," he conceded.

"Deal."

I would take whatever help I could get and I enjoyed Edward's company. He was always introspective -such an old soul for such a young man. But his depth was intriguing. He was definitely unique.

We ran to the market in town. I browsed with Edward reluctantly in tow, searching for the right color combination of flowers. Carlisle liked pinks, so that was definitely a color of choice. Yellow looked so joyful. And then maybe some red…yes, definitely red.

As Edward and I walked down the (thankfully gloomy) street with our baskets of flowers, I found myself gazing into the windows of the main street shops.

"Maybe you should stop and pick up something special to wear today," Edward suggested in a matter-of-fact tone.

"Special? What's the occasion?"

I was always suspicious of Edward's little suggestions. I knew he was privy to the private information in our heads, but what he wasn't aware of was how a woman's intuition worked…

"Um, no occasion, I just thought women, you know, liked to shop."

Not like Edward to stubble on his words. What was going on?

"Nothing, Esme," Edward said answering my thoughts. "I just know Carlisle would want to you have anything that makes you happy. Look…" He pointed to a simple cotton dress with a bright floral print in a shop window. "I think that would look lovely on you. Why don't you get it?"

Edward if you are trying to be subtle, you are failing miserably.

I saw him grimace in response to this thought.

Then I softened. We both wanted the same thing - we wanted to see Carlisle happy. I decided I would play along. He obviously knew something I didn't... Anyway, I could always use a new dress.

"Okay. You stay with the flowers (I knew he'd love that!) and I'll see if they have my size," I smiled.

"Thank you, Esme," he said with relief in his voice

Moments later I emerged from the store with two boxes. One containing a new dress and in the other, the highest pair of heels I could find.

Edward grinned knowingly. Actually we both smiled the rest of the way back to the house.

Once we got everything home, we searched through the shed for the tools we needed. Edward impatient as usual, decided to skip the shovel, and just used his hands to dig the holes for the flowers. I couldn't find a watering can, no surprise there. Did I really expect a couple of young bachelors to own a watering can?

Even with our speed, it took some time to lay out the flowers in the design I wanted, dig the holes, plant and water them. Edward had disappeared as soon as he finished his part of the deal.

Once the last pot had been planted, I stood back to admire the splash of color the flowers added to the landscape. It was a good start. In time, maybe I could add a few flowering bushes and a strategically placed trellis adorned with clematis. I could sketch out a few designs for the landscaping and present it to Carlisle for his input.

With designs clicking through my brain like flipping photographs, I headed in the house and climbed the stairs. Placing the two boxes in my room, I headed to the bathroom to clean up. Once I had bathed, I put on the new dress and heels. Carlisle would be home soon.

Standing in the mirror, I couldn't help but shake my head at the absurdity of my actions. I felt like a child playing an elaborate game of "house". Carlisle wasn't my husband and this was not my home, but it felt like we were playing the roles of husband and wife. Minus one important perk of being married…

The sound of Carlisle's car rapidly approaching caught my attention. I felt a quick flutter in my stomach and shot down the stairs as fast at my new shoes would take me. Now, how to look nonchalant all cleaned up, dressed up and wearing the sexiest heeled shoes I could find? I began fluffing the cushions on the couch.

Carlisle came through the front door of the house as if he was late for a surprise party. My stomach fluttered again, could he be looking as forward to seeing me as I was to see him?

I got my answer as he came to an abrupt stop when he saw me standing there. I got the response I was hoping for. His eyes widened as he took me in from head to toe, then a smile slowly spread across his face. But, of course, his words were polite.

"Esme, what a pleasant sight you are! And the flowers you planted look wonderful. Thank you for adding such beauty to our home."

"I hope you don't mind me taking some liberties. I know this is your home, but I thought it could use a woman's touch. A little color can make such a difference."

"It's perfect."

The way his eyes dwelled on my form, I got the distinct feeling he wasn't talking about the flowers any more.

"And to thank you for your hard work today, would you take an automobile ride with me?" he asked.

I eagerly accepted his invitation. My woman's intuition was tingling again. Carlisle seemed very excited about something.

He excused himself and went to his room to change out of his work clothes. When he reemerged moments later, he was dressed casually in a pair of knickerbockers than hung several inches below his knees, a coordinating Norfolk coat and two-toned white and tan shoes.

We enjoyed a ride though the shaded roads and arrived at a secluded scenic area overlooking Lake Superior. We left the car to sit on the bank and watch the sun sink into the blue water. I loved the colors of Twilight.

We appeared to be taking the same course on the way home, but just when darkness fell, Carlisle pulled to the side of the road and cut the engine.

"We walk from here. I have something to show you that I think you'll like."

With complete faith and much anticipation, I exited the car as Carlisle held the door open.

We headed directly into the forest. Unfortunately, even with my vampire agility, I found navigating the rough wooded terrain a challenge in my unpractical footwear.

"I guess I should have worn boots for this trip," I teased.

"No problem. Let me help."

And with that Carlisle scooped me up in his arms. I let out a squeal at the unexpected action, but then quickly began to appreciate the closeness. He cradled me in his arms and he deftly navigated through the woods. His excitement was now contagious.

"Carlisle, where are we going?"

"You'll see. Almost there."

Staining my eyes, I searched the scene before me. In the distance, I could see the flicker of light. It made shadows dance on the surrounding trees.

Finally, Carlisle stepped into a small clearing. In the middle of the clearing was a large fire in a makeshift fire pit. To the one side was a large log, somewhat carved to resemble a bench. Lying on top of the makeshift bench was a lovely bouquet of white and red roses. The bouquet was large – at least two dozen flowers, and their sweet fragrance filled the surroundings despite the smoke from the fire.

My eyes took in the beautiful sight as Carlisle gently set me on my feet.

"I couldn't stop thinking of the scent of roses today. I thought you might enjoy them."

"Carlisle, they are lovely!" I rushed to the flowers and raised them to my nose to take in their scent. How did you prepare this?"

He just smiled.

"Edward…." I said remembering how he so quickly vanished this afternoon. Now I owed him twice - once for insisting I purchase a new dress and once for this romantic setting. Well, I guess three times if I counted the humiliation of planting flowers.

I looked back at the beautiful bouquet and a thought occurred to me. "Interesting choice of colors, Dr Cullen…"

I knew the colors of roses held special significance. Could I assume he chose these colors to convey a specific message? I really wanted to know, so I waited patiently for his response.

Carlisle took my hand and led me over to the log bench and offered me a seat before sitting next to me. The fire cast a warm color on his pale perfect face. He took the bouquet from my hands and set it on the ground before the fire.

"Actually, I did pick these colors for a reason. The red roses symbolize love, romance, beauty, courage and respect. The white roses symbolize spiritual love and anticipation of happiness." He spoke so softly and took my left hand in his.

I looked into his eyes. My breath caught as I saw the depth of them.

"The time we have spent together has been the happiest time of my existence. But for as long as I have walked this Earth, I have not gained much experience in love. I have not done a very good job sharing my feelings with you, and I hope my actions have spoken what my words have not.

"But tonight, I need you to know how I truly feel about you." Carlisle took in a deep breath and then continued, "When we are apart, I can only think about when we will be reunited. When we are together, the time flies by. Your smile warms me and your touch comforts me. Your beauty draws me in and leaves me spellbound. The thought of being without you leaves me in despair."

Carlisle dropped to one knee before me. Oh, my…

"Esme, once you said to me that you thought we were destined to be together and your role was to be at my side because maybe you would save my life one day. Know that truer words have never been spoken. You have saved my life. And you have become the meaning of my life.

"I would be blessed to have you by my side forever more. Esme, I am on my knee to most humbly ask you, would you be my wife?"

Time stood still.

As if in slow motion, he reached into the breast pocket of his jacket and pulled out a dazzling diamond engagement ring. It had a raised solitary round diamond surrounded by another tier of smaller diamonds and it seemed to dance as the fire light bounced off its many facets.

But the sparkle of the gemstones was nothing compared to the brilliance of Carlisle's citrine eyes.

I loved those eyes. Windows to the soul. A beautiful, loving, compassionate soul….

"Esme?"

I blinked, startled to realize I had just lost myself in his eyes. For the love of God, speak Esme!

"Carlisle, you are so beautiful. What did I ever do to deserve your love?" I stammered, completely overwhelmed with emotion.

A large smile grew gradually across his face, "Esme, is that a 'yes'?"

I threw my arms around his neck and cried out, "Yes, yes, yes! I will marry you, Carlisle Cullen!"

With a huge grin, he gently removed my arms from around him and slipped the ring on the third finger of my left hand. The promise of eternal happiness it symbolized so filled me with joyfulness. I channeled all my joyous energy into a passionate kiss. Carlisle's lips were so soft and sweet. I held him so closely that had we needed to breathe, it would have been impossible.

I wanted nothing more than to melt into his embrace. Become one with him.

Without my permission, my passion morphed into desperation. My joy was overtaken by desire. I so wanted to be with him now, here. My lips hungrily feasted on Carlisle's sweetness. My need for him consumed me and stole my control. I wanted to be closer to the man who would be my husband.

Forgetting my nature, I grasped at his shirt with such enthusiasm, the buttons popped off and flew in all directions. The sudden exposure of his bare chest sent a flood of his delicious scent straight to my brain feeding my fire. I gasped for more.

I ran my fingers over Carlisle's smooth, muscular chest as our lips continued their dance of unrestrained passion. As I pressed myself to him, I could feel Carlisle's body responding to my aggressive display of need.

In turn, he gripped my hips and crushed me to him. The force would have left my human body bruised. A combination of a hiss and a sigh escaped from my lips.

A part of me pleaded to regain my sanity and control. But a larger part reveled in the high I was feeling in this moment of passion.

Grabbing Carlisle's hands, I pulled him to the ground. We knelt together, still wrapped in a tight embrace. In a one fluid movement Carlisle cradled my body and laid me on the ground next to the fire. But the warmth I felt had nothing to do with the blaze that burned next to me…

He covered me with his body and placed lustful kisses along my jaw line and neck. My chest heaved and I felt as if I would drown. I returned his affection with fervent kisses of my own that I placed on his fragrant shoulders and chest. My fingers pressed into the smooth firm skin of his bare back.

When our lips met, it was like finding home again after being hopelessly lost.

Eventually, Carlisle wrapped his arms around me and rolled us over so that I was looking down on him.

I propped myself up on his chest to look on his glowing face. He cupped my face in his hands.

"You are an amazing woman. I thought I knew myself, but you have brought out feelings I never knew existed, let alone felt!" He said breathlessly.

Suddenly, I felt shame.

"I love you so much, Carlisle. The thought of spending forever with you, well, my happiness overwhelmed me, I'm sorry if..."

But he cut off my next words.

"No, don't be sorry. A man couldn't hope for a better acceptance of his proposal! And, you've given me a sample of what I can look forward to on our wedding night…" His tone was deep and sultry.

My eye widened -I had a wedding to plan! But compared to what was waiting for me after the ceremony...

"How soon can we get married?" I blurted out.

He chuckled, "Okay, my love, let's go home and make some wedding plans. I have a few ideas…"

He helped me up and we looked at each other quite abashed. Our clothes were disheveled and covered with small twigs and dirt. Carlisle smirked and pulled several pine needles from my mussed hair.

We both knew Edward would be waiting at home to congratulate us. I cursed his damn prying gift!

By the look on Carlisle's face, he was thinking the same thing. We laughed as we resigned ourselves to the scene waiting back at home: caught like children doing something naughty.

Oh, well, at least the humor that Edward would derive from this would more than make up for what I owed him…

End Notes: How about that chapter for fluff and romance! Along with some passion that I know you have been waiting patiently for. I loved writing it for you, now tell me what you thought!

Oh, you might like the wedding - next chapter!