Twilight and all its characters are owned by SM

Esme and Carlisle: How the Love Story Began…

Plans, Prayers and Promises

CPOV

One thing I enjoyed about the drive to work was the time I had alone with my thoughts. Though my legs could get me to work faster, the slow pace of the car was almost a treat.

And today was a real treat. I replayed the previous night over and over. Esme accepted my proposal! After centuries of being alone in this world, I finally found someone I wanted to spend eternity with. I was never so sure of anything in my life.

It wasn't as if I hadn't been looking for someone to share my immortal life. I never wanted to be alone for so long. But from my experience living among other vampires, it became clear to me my choices were severely limited.

Human/vampire relationships always ended poorly – for the human partner at least. Usually the immortal partner lost the battle against his or her thirst. The hot date became a hot meal.

There were a few stories of ongoing affairs; unfortunately, the frail human body was not built to handle a physical relationship with a vampire. In those instances, both partners paid the price of forbidden love. One with their life, the other with their heart.

My attempts at a relationship with another immortal were often cut short when it came to diet issues because for me it was more than just food choice, it was a moral choice. No compromise could ever bridge that gap.

Though loneliness was too often a part of my existence, I would endure it all again if it meant finding Esme at the end.

After returning home last night, we talked for hours on details for our upcoming nuptials -and I had the substantial "to do" check list of items to prove it.

Though the human weddings I had observed were grand affairs, Esme and I knew ours would be intimate out of necessity. Neither of us had family to invite, except for Edward. But we did want something familiar and friendly we could share with others in a place of worship.

We decided on the small chapel located in the hospital. I would be able to invite my colleagues from the ER. They were the closest thing I had to friends. And both Esme and I held affection for the chaplain at the hospital. I would ask him today if he would officiate.

Esme picked the date – May 8th. This surprised me because it was the day that Benjamin died. But she explained it was also the day I found and transformed her. She wanted to set that date aside for the rest of her life to remember the brief joy she found with Benjamin and the eternal joy she found with me. I would not deny her that request.

But this date was a mere week from today.

It was clear from last night that Esme's physical desires also influenced the hasty trip to the altar. But this was the one aspect of our future that gave me wedding jitters.

It was an area where Esme's experience outweighed mine. But it wasn't her experience that had me concerned; it was my lack of it. How was I to please my wife on our wedding night when I wasn't sure how to proceed? I may as well have been a dentist for all the information my medical background gave me on this issue. I knew all the parts but none of the process! If I had any experience in the area of romance when I was human, I had long forgotten it.

All I had now was Esme. I would have to put this in her hands and trust in our love. I guess we had forever to figure it out together, I just prayed she had patience. I promised myself I would be there for Edward when he found that special someone. Maybe I could spare him from some of this anxiety.

To distract myself from my fears, I ticked off the items on the list:

Wedding attire. I had two days off this week so Esme and I could make the drive to Duluth to shop.

Wedding vows. We decided to skip the traditional vows for our own. I knew our marriage would not be classified as 'traditional', so writing our own vows seemed appropriate.

Flowers. That was all Esme's territory!

Music. Edward graciously offered to handle arranging the music for the ceremony. I guess he was taking interest in music like Esme had hoped. He said the details were a surprise. Esme liked that idea, but surprises made me nervous. By nature, doctors don't like surprises.

The honeymoon. Esme said this detail was to be left up to me. I knew I needed a place that was romantic, far from Edward's mind, yet close - I didn't think Esme would appreciate a lengthy trip on our wedding night!

This would take some thought on my part. Typically honeymoons took place at some scenic location. However, we would need a scenic and secluded location with hunting available to us. That limited things a bit, but after all, it wasn't about location, it was about us. Together. Alone.

I pulled up to the hospital. I loved my job, but I really wanted to be home…

EsPOV

Only two days until my wedding day!

I wished that I could experience all this for first time with Carlisle. I wished I could give Carlisle the gift of my virginity. But I tried not to dwell on those details. I couldn't change what had happened in my human past and my life experiences made me who I am – the woman he loved.

I was getting dressed for our trip to Duluth to pick up our wedding attire and wedding bands. While I looked forward to the trip with Carlisle, I so wished I had a girlfriend to take with me. I loved my new life, but some aspects of it were lacking. I missed female companionship.

"Esme!" Carlisle called from the bottom of the stairs, "Are you ready to leave, dear?"

I loved when he spoke my name! I bounded down the stairs and we got in the car for the couple hour drive.

Once we arrived at the department store, we went for a time in separate directions. We both wanted to surprise each other with our appearance on our wedding day. So I went to find a dress and Carlisle went to choose his tuxedo.

I settled on an ankle length ivory satin dress with lace overlay. For my headdress, I chose an orange blossom wreath. Simple yet elegant.

With my dress boxed up, my next goal was to purchase the rest of my trousseau. Very much desiring female assistance, I decided to play the part of the blushing bride and flashed my rather sizeable engagement ring to any sales woman in the area. Most of them were more than eager to help me make my purchases. I even picked up something special for Carlisle.

With all our purchases made, we packed them into the back of the car and headed home. I looked forward to a fire and the quiet of our home.

The material items I bought today were the last things I needed to prepare for our wedding day. I was already committed mind, body and spirit to this union.

I was ready to become Mrs. Esme Cullen.

The morning of May 8, 1922, dawned cool and crisp. Having set the time of wedding ceremony at twilight, our favorite time of the day, we had ample time for hunting. Edward, Carlisle and I spent the greater part of the day in the forest around our home.

I could tell by Edward's distractedness the thoughts and emotions Carlisle and I were emanating were overwhelming him. I guess no matter how sure you are in your course, weddings were just something that caused nervousness.

I tried to give him space, but at one point during our hunt, he sought me out.

"Esme, could I speak with you a moment?"

"Of course, Edward. I would like to talk with you also. I wanted to apologize for the mental assault."

He shrugged, "Don't worry about it. I expected it. If it's any consolation, Carlisle is even more nervous than you are – but don't tell him I told you that."

I so didn't want to pry into Carlisle's private thoughts, but I just had to know more. I tried not to sound too obvious as I probed for more information…

"Really? I know I'm worried about forgetting the lines to my vows. What is Carlisle nervous about?"

Edward smiled and looked down. I knew he was trying to decide how much information he felt comfortable sharing with me. I really didn't want to put him in the middle…except maybe this once.

"Esme, let me put you at ease, Carlisle is so in love with you. I have never known him to be more sure of the future as he is now, knowing you will be at his side as his wife. And I believe you feel the same.

I understand that my presence has often been an intrusion on your relationship, but your love is truly beautiful. I am glad I was able to experience some of that joy through your thoughts. I hope one day I might be as fortunate as you and Carlisle."

His words were so touching, I was speechless. But he wasn't finished…

"I look to Carlisle as my father. He has earned my respect and I believe he is a great man. The happiness you have brought him has earned you my respect too. I am privileged to have such incredible adoptive parents as my role models. Welcome to the family, Esme. "

Every time I thought I was beginning to understand Edward, it always seemed he surprised me with something. I wanted to cry to show him how much his words deeply affected me. Since I was incapable of such an act, I did what felt right. I embraced him.

At first he held very still, seemingly unsure how to respond. I hadn't thought about it, but now I wondered, when was the last time someone hugged him? My guess was his mother prior to her fatal illness. This realization made me to hold him tighter. Slowly I felt him relax and he placed his arms around my waist.

Thank you Edward. I love you. I silently let the words fill my mind.

"Hey, you two, quit lollygagging around! We've got a wedding to get to!" Carlisle called out as he approached. He put his arms around Edward and me. "Let's go make an honest family of this odd lot!"

The mood at home had changed. It had gone from nervous jitters to excitement.

We all cleaned up after our day in the woods. Carlisle and Edward packed the bags for our honeymoon in the car. Then Carlisle donned his tuxedo and Edward drove him to the hospital. On the return trip home, Edward would pick up the flowers.

I had the house and my thoughts to myself.

For the second time, I stood alone in front of a mirror in a wedding gown.

But that is where the similarities ended. This time no voice yelled warnings in my mind. This time I didn't act out of the expectations of others, and I felt no hesitation about entering into this bond. Strange, but in my heart, I knew from the first time I saw Dr. Cullen at age 16 that I wanted to be with him forever. I'd been to hell and back and now it was time for my happy ending.

With my time alone, I let my mind wonder.

I sat down on the corner chair of my room to fasten the silk stockings to my garter belt. I knew that fashions were changing fast and women preferred to wear clothes that played down their curves. Somehow I was sure Carlisle was more 'old fashioned'. So I had squeezed into a boned corset that accentuated my hips, waist and bosom. Let his eyes feast on that tonight!

As I rolled up my stocking and attached it to the dangling belt, my eyes spotted a crescent shaped scar near the top of my thigh. I examined it closer. The scar had a twin just above it. I quickly examined my other leg. It too had the same double crescent scar. I ran my fingers over it, trying to remember where they came from. Realization hit me hard. Those weren't ordinary scars, they were bite marks. They could only have come from one source. Carlisle.

I felt a flutter in my gut as I thought about Carlisle's venomous mouth on my then-human thighs. The flutter turned into a flood of electricity coursing through me.

Such the gentleman, he never mentioned having performed this deed during my transformation. With one part of my brain trained on the sound of Edward returning home, I let the other part drift into fantasy...

Carlisle moving his hands up my legs, touching my thighs and placing his mouth on my soft human flesh, sinking his teeth into me and drinking...Oh, I longed for physical pleasure of a lover.

While sex with Charles was seldom about my pleasure, I did begin to experiment and found that I could derive some satisfaction. One thing I so quietly desired was to try taking the top position. To move at my own pace. To be the one in control during love making. But Charles would never allow me to "dominate" him. Not even during sex.

But with Carlisle, it could all be different. Safe. Satisfying.

I finished attaching my stockings still lost in my forbidden reverie.

But why did I feel it was forbidden? Because proper women shouldn't think of such things? Shouldn't do such things? Wouldn't a man enjoy the pleasures of an assertive woman in the bedroom?

Carlisle had always treated me as an equal. We had even discussed that as we decided to throw out the traditional wedding vows. He would want me to be myself. I know he would want to give me pleasure as much as I wanted to give him pleasure.

I decided I would be true to myself. I would not only please my new husband, but I would show him how to please me. I knew this would make him happy.

The sound of the car approaching shook me out of my premeditated honeymoon plans and into a recitation of states and state capitals.

I stood and smoothed the front of my dress and adjusted the wreath of flowers on my head. I had pulled my hair back for a more formal look. I was ready. Just then I heard a light tap on the door.

"Come in, Edward."

He entered my room with a lovely bouquet in one hand and two boutonnieres in the other.

I smiled. "Oh, Edward you look so handsome in your tails! Here, let me help you put on your boutonniere."

I placed the single calla lily in the button hole of his jacket. "Would you help Carlisle with his when we get to the chapel?"

"Of course," was his simple reply.

He handed me my bouquet. It was composed of a dozen ivory calla lilies. Their stems tied together with long flowing ribbons of yellow, red and vibrant pink.

I took in a deep breath. This was it.

"Shall we?" Edward asked.

He let me lead the way to the car and then opened the door so I could climb in the back. I looked back at the house as we drove away. When I entered that house again; it would be as Mrs. Cullen. I would have my clearly defined role.

Unlike a church, the hospital chapel had a very, very small area in the back for me to wait in. Weddings weren't the typical fare at the hospital chapel, but a special exception was made for Carlisle.

As I waited, music began to play. I had seen the simple upright mahogany piano in the chapel before, but didn't consider what beautiful sounds could come from it. The music played softly as I pictured the handful of guests making their way to their seats.

The soft melody calmed me.

I listened to the sounds and took in the scents from behind the door, but I had to steal a look at who was playing so magnificently at the piano.

I cracked opened the door leading to the chapel and peered out.

Oh, my God! It's Edward!

Edward was playing the piano! I was so filled with excitement for him that I forgot about staying put until the right time, and hurried over to Edward.

"What are you doing? You're playing the piano! Like you've been playing for years!" I shrieked in a hushed voice, still overcome with shock.

He laughed, but continued to play. "I knew long time ago where this relationship was going. I started taking lessons while you were away. I knew you'd return, Esme. I heard this song on the sample phonographs you bought for me and I fell in love with it. Do you like it? It's the third movement of Suite bergamasqueby - Clair de Lune by Claude Debussy."

Absentmindedly I slid next to him on the piano bench and watched his long, elegant fingers dance on the silky keys.

Then the music transformed. Edward starting playing Canon in D.

I sat entranced by his playing. Soon he laughed gently and leaned over to whisper in my ear, "Esme, that's your cue."

"Oh, my!"

I jumped up and spun around to face the waiting guests who had turned to face the back of the chapel. There were snickers all around at my blunder.

I didn't care. All I saw at that moment was Carlisle - waiting for me at the front of the chapel with the chaplain.

I had tunnel vision. All I could see was that incredible, gorgeous man waiting for me. Me!

I began to walk, feeling like he was a magnet pulling me forward. Oh, damn this human speed!

When I arrived at Carlisle's side, he took my hand and squeezed it reassuringly.

The chaplain smiled and began, "Dearly Beloved, we come before God and these witnesses to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony.

As I have been privileged to have met the bride and groom prior to this occasion, I would like to say a few words to the happy couple before they share their vows.

Dr. Cullen, you have been such an asset to this hospital. Your devotion to and compassion for your patients and those around you is truly a gift from God. May you continue to share your gift for many years to come.

Esme, you have endured much pain. Yet your faith and commitment to love have seen you through. They have made you stronger.

God bless you both.

Now, for the exchange of vows and rings."

Carlisle and I turned toward each other. Edward had joined us at the altar and handed my wedding band to Carlisle. He spoke first:

"Esme, I was not searching

For I didn't know that I was lost.

Now that you are part of my life

I can see now with new eyes.

Before you, I was incomplete, merely existing.

You have shown me what my life could be

Complete with beauty, joy, comfort, hope and love.

Today, I ask you to be my wife

For to be without you would be to return to darkness.

You are my light and the reason for my existence.

As your husband, I vow before God to always put you first.

To comfort you in sorrow

And rejoice with you in your successes.

I promise to cherish, honor and love you

All the days of my life."

Carlisle took my left hand and slipped a single platinum eternity band on my finger to join my engagement ring. Then, with butterflies dancing in my stomach, I spoke my vows:

"Carlisle, when you found me I was broken and lifeless.

Then you gave of yourself to heal me and make me whole.

I owe you my life.

So that is what I give to you today and always.

I pledge to you all my heart, mind and soul.

I promise to love you with all that I am.

You are my hope and my joy.

A precious gift from God.

How blessed I am to be able to say you are mine.

I vow to be your faithful wife from this day forever more."

Edward handed me the thick platinum eternity band I had chosen for Carlisle. I placed it on his finger and looked into his eyes, barely containing my excitement.

The chaplain raised his hands in blessing over us, "May the Lord bless and keep you. Let the love you share strengthen and nourish you all the days of your lives. And may that love provide a sturdy foundation on which to build your family.

By the power vested in me by the great state of Wisconsin, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

We shared a jubilant kiss accompanied by the applause of our guests.

Edward played a rousing version of Ode to Joy at the piano as we recessed down the aisle. Carlisle took my hand and raised it to his lips to place a kiss on my wedding ring before scooping me up in his arms. We waved farewell to our guests.

Carlisle carried me to our car waiting outside the ER. "Just Married" was scrawled on the back of the car in white shoe polish and tin cans were strung to the bumper. Somebody thought of everything…

Carlisle placed me on my feet at the passenger side door. He opened it and bowed, "After you, Mrs. Cullen."

"No, after this, Dr. Cullen…," and I wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled him into me for an exuberant kiss on his sweet lips.

We could hear cat calls and whistles coming from the doors of the ER. I released Carlisle from my hold with a sassy grin and swept into the car.

He climbed in the driver's side and looked at me. That's all it took. Again, we found ourselves in an embrace sharing each other's eager lips. This time more passionately. A little less joy and a little more desire…

"Carlisle," I said breathlessly pushing away from him, "Step on it!"

We left the hospital in all haste heading for our honeymoon.

Destination unknown.

End Notes: Oh, my! Did that hit the spot? If yes, send me some love...(cuz you know I got some good lovin' for you coming next chapter...)

Want to hear the songs featured in this chapter? Check out the playlist at http:/www(dot)playlist(dot)com/playlist/17352291851