This is what you all have been waiting for. Thank you all for the great reviews! Again to the legal stuff I don't own them but I do own the set of Twilight magnets. The songs for this chapter are... "Be My Escape" by Reliant K, "I Wanna Have Some Fun" by Samantha Fox, "Just A Girl" by No Doubt, "Walking On Air" by Kerli, "Can't Help Falling In Love" by Elvis, "Broken" by Lifehouse, "Frozen" by Within Temptation, "So I Thought" by Flyleaf, "Lost So Lost" by Hawthorn Height, "Goodbye" by Secondhand Serenade and "Heartbreak Lullaby" by A*Teens.
BPOV/OCTOBER 17TH
"Bella we made the last delivery and all the desserts got there fine. The chef just about came right there when he tried one of your truffles. Ben and I are going to go tomorrow and make sure the chocolate fountains are set up. So breathe and just take a moment."
We had spent the last two weeks making thousands of miniature desserts. I have to say we out did ourselves. We have not had a moment's peace since we got back from the sugar competition. Alice was so happy for the both of us. She had the pictures framed immediately and put on the wall right next to our win at Food TV.
After I got back Alice and I had another girl night. This time we enjoyed the night sans drinks but with iced tea and lots full of girly fun. She had picked up "Some Kind of Wonderful", "Twister" and "Titanic". We made healthy food this time and settled in for a night of movies. We got to the sex scene between Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio and Alice had a huge blush on her face. I told her to spill it. I knew about the night but never heard about it. She told me how spectacular it was. I blushed when she mentioned she had multiple orgasms that night. She had tears in her eyes when she told me they talked about firsts when they woke up. She told him that she wished he had been her first. He wished the same but also told her that she was his last. He would never want another woman in his life other than Alice. I hugged her and wiped away her tears. She was so happy and in love with him. I saw wedding bells in the near future.
We all met up with the Cullen's last weekend for the Aids Walk. Alice and I decided instead of getting pledges that we would each donate $10,000. After all the business we have had we could afford to give back. They made a huge donation too just like they always did. I enjoyed the long walk and it was nice to talk to everyone. Emmett kept rubbing his hands over Rosalie's expanding belly. Those two were so in love and their child was going to be loved also.
Alice had worn new tennis shoes and her feet were killing her after the first few miles. Jasper gave her a piggy back ride the rest of the way. He would kiss her hands that were around his neck. In turn she would kiss his neck and whisper in his ear. I don't know what she was telling him but at one point he was fanning himself.
I enjoyed the walk and talking to people. Quite a few of the walkers knew who we were and were going to call us for the holidays. I was talking to one couple about some of our specials when the next thing I saw was the ground coming at me. I felt some strong hands reach around my waist. I looked up at saw those green eyes grinning back at me. I blushed and told him thank you. He said he would do anything for his family. Did he really mean that?
Edward had shown more of the softer side to me. We had all gone out to dinner to celebrate my win and he held out my chair for me. We went dancing after ward and he asked me to dance. I am sure it was so I would not feel left out but it was nice. He called up one night and told us to get into our pajamas. Alice had a fit when all she wore was lingerie so I let her barrow some fleece ones. I chuckled when she said they were so soft and comfortable. I told her fashion doesn't have to look good to feel good. We were coming down the stairs when we heard a knock on the door. There they stood in their pajamas too with Chinese food and movies. Jasper held up "Redline and The Mummy" along with the copious bags of food. We had a good time that night. They teased me about my fast car infatuation and in turn we gave Emmett a hard time about his infatuation with Rachel Weisz. Though he added that the only one for him was Rosie and he could die a happy man. Alice had to open her big mouth about my guitar. They all wanted to hear me play so I went up to get it. It was pretty beat up but it was still mine. I sat down on the couch and put the strap around me. I started strumming the last song I had learned. Edward sat there and just watched me strum the strings. They felt so good underneath my fingers. I had missed playing and would not let that happen again. Rosalie asked what I had played and I told her "Be My Escape by Reliant K". They were all pretty impressed with my talent. Jasper asked if the song meant anything to me and all I said was it meant more to me than I could ever express to them. I saw Alice smile at Edward and he turned away. It was weird but it was a night full of wonderful memories.
I thought about playing for them as we all cleaned up the kitchen from our last night of baking and whatnot. I was surprised when Angela passed on the ball. She said that Ben had surprised her with a wonderful weekend away on the San Juan Islands. I told her to take a few extra days on me. I asked what bed and breakfast they were staying at and called them to add two more nights. She squeeled in delight at that thought. We had been working so hard that they needed some time. Our busiest time was coming up and I would need them more than ever.
I locked up and walked over to the coach house. I took each stair slowly and fell on top of the couch when I got to the living room. I heard Alice on the phone and she stopped when she saw me there. I am sure she was talking to Jasper about something. I just laid there I was too tired to even smile. Every bone in my body ached. I heard her click her phone shut and she sat next to me. She pulled off my shoes and started rubbing my feet. I so loved it when she did that. She may be a great dresser and party planner but she had the hands of a goddess.
"Bella I know you are enjoying the foot rub but I need to tell you of our plans for tomorrow."
"Shhhhh Alice trying to sleep." I tried to roll over but she started tickling my feet.
"Truce Alice truce. So tell me about this brilliant plan for tomorrow" I knew it would involve pain on my part.
"Esme called earlier and said she got us rooms for tomorrow night. One for them, one for Emmett and Rose, one for the boys and one for us to share. I called Kellie and she will deliver our dresses and masks there. We are going to meet at the spa then have some lunch. Esme has a surprise for us. I just wanted to let you know of the plan so you were not surprised. I promise this will be the night of your life!" She started rubbing my feet again.
"Alice that is fine. Just let me know when to be up and I will be there." I sat up and hugged her for the foot rub. It always made me feel better.
"You my dear best talented spectacular friend can sleep in. We don't have to meet them till 11." She put her head on my shoulder.
"I think we should take both of our cars. I am thinking you and Jasper are going to need our room. I can come home after the ball. I loved the foot rub but all those adjectives must mean you want me to fix dinner." She smiled at me and nodded yes. She said that her and Jasper could have some alone time later but I told her to enjoy the room. I was not going to stay around with all those couples having sex while I was being miserable.
"Whatever I fix it is going to be easy and you are doing the dishes." I got up and went to fix us a quick pasta and salad.
"Thank you Bella! I can do the dishes. I have to go back to the hotel anyway to make sure everything is set up correctly." She started setting the table and turned some music on.
Poor Alice had been living at the hotel these past few days. From what she told me the ball was going to be spectacular. We ate and I left her to do the dishes. I went up and fell on my bed fast asleep.
BPOV/OCOTBER 18TH
I wanted to kill whoever was jumping on my bed. I was still tired and my body was screaming at me to die. I felt cold air and then moisture on my toes.
"What the hell was that!!!?"
I flipped off the quilt and there was Rosalie smiling at me. I had it wrong I thought it had been Alice. I cocked my head to the side and stared at her.
"I do that all the time to get Emmett up. At least I know it works on you too! Come on Bella we have to get ready to go." She kissed me on the cheek and handed me a cup of coffee. I enjoyed the sweet hot nectar as I headed for the shower. I knew I could dress comfortably as my clothes would not be on long. Knowing all of them I would be primped and teased into submission. I do have to admit I was looking forward to tonight. I had not said anything to anyone about my secret date.
I tell Alice everything as we really don't have secrets between us. I take that back the one thing I keep from her is how she bugs the shit out of me with her perfectness. I don't mind looking nice but sometimes Alice can be a little much. Angela and I spent a lot of time discussing this in class when were together. She told me that I had to say something or our friendship would suffer. Most of the time I ignored it but there times I was just plain pissed off. Alice never listened to me though even though I was clear about it with her. All the times she set me up on dates so she and Austin could go fuck each other silly were worse. The guys were nice but most had one thing on their mind which was fucking. I ended up being taken home early to cry myself asleep.
I was not sure how tonight would go. We had been talking on the internet and we knew so much about each other already. For all I knew he could be some stalker guy but he assured me he was not. I wanted to feel love that was all around me. Emmett and Rosalie, The Cullen's, Jasper and Alice, Ben and Angela….who could not feel left out in all of that.
The butterfly bombers were back residing in my stomach. I was not this nervous on national TV. I finished my coffee and got dressed. I headed downstairs and there were the girls. They all smiled at me and I smiled back. For once I finally had felt wanted, loved and needed. My parents made me feel that way. It had been missing from my life for so long. I loved Alice and her parents but they did the best they could. Alice told me the other night that she finally understood what had been missing in my life. She asked me how I went on with the whole in my heart and living in pain like I had. In reality she had no fucking clue just how much pain I was in. My parents were part of it but that was just the beginning to my painful end of existence.
I simply told her I existed, living each day as I could. I asked her why she was bringing it up now and she sat there looking at me. The silence between us was odd but she finally did speak up.
"I am so excited about tonight. From what I heard this ball is going to be so much fun and full of surprises." That is what was on her mind? I don't get her thought process sometimes. Once again she had not a clue that she was not the only person that was in the damn room.
Alice fed the fish as we were going to be gone over night. I checked to make sure everything was turned off. They all went downstairs as I locked the door and set the alarm. Ben and Angela waved to us and yelled have a great time!
I thought we were taking our own cars but I followed them out to a black limo. I just shook my head and got in.
"Bella we have to ride in style this is an important night!" Rosalie told me as she poured herself a glass of water. Rose put in a CD of music into the stereo for background music.
I let out a huge breath out of my lips and twiddled my fingers. Alice noticed me as it was my nervous action other than twirling my hair.
"Spill it Swan. I know your nervous ticks. What is troubling you?" Alice looked at me with her arms crossed. I knew that look she meant business and would not let it go till I poured my soul out to her.
"IAMMEETINGINTERNETGUYTONIGHTWEMADEADATE." I got it out of my mind as fast as I could.
"Bella normally you blush but you are white as a ghost. It will be ok don't worry!" Alice leaned over and took my hands into her.
"Bella that is wonderful you have a date but did you mention internet? Is that safe?" Esme and Rosalie both looked at me with horror in their eyes. I knew what they were thinking…stalker. I sighed as I knew I had to tell them what had been going on. Alice knew but it was time they did.
"He is not a stalker or serial killer that I know of. We have been talking for months now. We have talked about everything and anything. I left some major details out like I was the owner of the business and a few more than that. I am just falling for him. He is so easy to talk to. He gets what goes on in my head. We have so much in common. He loves his family just like I do. He would do anything for them. I am just so scared of after meeting he will run. I don't want to disappoint him. Shit I am just rambling here…" I blushed and started twirling my hair.
They all looked at each other in the eyes. I don't know what was going on but it was an eerie mind meld they had going between them. We pulled up in front of the spa and I went to open the door and was stopped.
"Bella if he means that much to you then you should take a chance. From what you told us and how you look now it is love. It is what I felt with Carlisle and what the girls feel for my sons. Don't let this chance at being happy and in love pass you up. "She kissed me on the forehead.
"Bella she is right. I felt this way when I first met Emmett. My stubbornness wouldn't let me love him. I finally came to the realization that I loved him when I came close to losing him."
"Rose you never told us about that. Would you please tell us if you don't mind? I don't want to pry." She nodded yes but said wait till we get to our private room. We got out of the limo and went in. They were expecting us just like the last time. This time there was juice drinks and sparkling water. The same lady took us to our room just like last time.
We each got into our robes and were asked what we wanted. Esme was so sweet when she interrupted but told her everything. We started with pedicures and manicures first. My nails were a mess but I hoped they could do something for them. Washing all those dishes, the frosting and the rest of my work was taking a toll on them.
We were each put into our foot baths and our hands to soak. Rosalie started in on her story of how she almost lost him.
"I don't know if you know this but my dad left soon after I was born and mom never cared to be a mother. I was on my own a lot growing up and when I graduated high school she said she wanted her life back and left me on my own. I was in law school and trying to makes ends meet. I was lucky that my scholarship provided everything I needed. I had a job at a local bar to cover anything else I might need. The work sucked but the tips were great. The Cullen's were working on the college adding a wing or something like that. All the girls were swooning over the gorgeous Cullen brothers. I saw them around and didn't give them a second glance. I had to get through college my future depended on it. I ran into him one day and after him chasing me down I gave up the fight. His charm got to me. He treated me like no other man I had dated. I wanted to keep it casual and just date when I felt like it. Emmett pursued me and treated me like a queen. I lied to myself about how I felt about him. I don't know what happened but school was getting to me. I was so stressed out that I freaked when I saw Emmett talking to another women. I just let it all out and told him I was done that I couldn't do this anymore. I walked away Emmett tried to explain what was going on but I would not listen." She paused as she picked out her nail polish. Blood red, made me wonder what her dress looked like.
"Emmett called, sent flowers and whatever else he could think of. It wasn't till the women I saw him with called me one day. She told me I was losing out on one of the best things that has ever happened to their family. I was going to screw all her plans up and I needed to make it right."
"Wait a minute? Are you telling us it was Esme you saw him with?" Alice had her mouth open. She shut it with such force that I heard her teeth rattle.
"Yes it was Esme. She shook me out of my stupor with that phone call. I flew out the door and went looking for him. He was not at the apartment they had but I found him on the campus. It was right then I ran up to him and kissed him as hard as I could. I told him that I was madly in love with him and was never going to let him go. We took it long and slow. A year later he proposed and you know the rest."
"Rosalie that is wonderful. I am so glad you told us especially me. I can see why now you both said what you said to me. I just hope it ends well as I have a lot of baggage to bring into a relationship." I pointed at the French tip. It would go perfect with my dress. Alice was finally rubbing off on me.
"I knew from the get go that Emmett and Rosalie were meant for each other. I could tell when he talked about her. Jasper is the same way. He lights up when he talks about you Alice. Bella whoever this man is he will take you baggage and all. You don't know his history he may just have as much baggage as you do."
We all were done with our manicures and they started on our pedicures. Esme told us about her dress. It was simple and beautiful just like her. Rosalie said she had picked out a red strapless number and she hoped that she looked ok in it. Her beautiful baby bump was showing and she was glowing.
We finished up and we each headed our separate ways. Each of us wanted something different. Esme wanted a mud wrap, Rosalie a pregnancy message, Alice said something about pour cleansing and all I wanted was one of those deep messages.
I laid on the table and let the women message my troubles away. I had so many questions to ask him even though I knew so much about him already. I wanted to taste his lips on mine. I wanted his hands to feel my heart beating out of my chest. I wanted him to feel what he did to me when we talked. All these horrible thoughts went through my mind. With each release of tension my mind was put at ease. For the first time other than starting the business and going to Alaska I knew what I wanted. I wanted him I just was not sure if he wanted me.
She left the room and I put on my robe again. She waited out side the door and took me to the rest of the girls. They all had the look of relaxation on their faces. Alice must have had a good time because she did not jump in her seat when it came time for hair and makeup.
"Mr. James make us beautiful!!" Rosalie was spun around in her chair.
I found it odd as there were only women working on our hair and makeup. Rosalie said that Mr. James owned this place and he only hired the best. I was happy to hear that because I could be a hopeless cause without a genius working on me.
She carefully washed my hair and put it in rollers. I was put under the dryer to bake for awhile. Now I knew what brownies must feel like. My hair was checked to see if was dry. She carefully put me in my chair. I was not allowed to see what she was doing as she wanted it to be a surprise. She pulled the rollers out of my hair and started to work her magic. She pulled, teased and curled my hair into submission. She started on my make up. I never really wore it as eyeliner was dangerous to the eyes. I nearly poked an eye out in high school when Alice demanded that I try it. She gave up on me as she saw the tears in my red eye.
My mouth fell open when I saw myself in the mirror. Half of my hair was on the back of my head and the rest was cascading down my back all in soft curls. You couldn't see a bobby pin or anything holding it up. It was like magic. My make up was soft but she played out my eyes. Alice must have told her the color of my dress because it matched perfectly. I almost started crying but I knew I would be smacked for ruining it all.
I could see everyone in the mirror looking at me. They all smiled and nodded. Alice put her hands on my shoulders and leaned towards my ear.
"That is the Bella we all see all the time. Your inner beauty is showing through your outer beauty." Little did Alice know my inner beauty wanted to bitch slap her outer beauty.
Esme's hair was simple. It was kept down but put in soft waves. Rosalie's was in small curls and it looked like a halo on her head. Alice had her hair slicked back into a chic bob. They all looked beautiful. We all got dressed slowly as not to mess anything up. Esme paid the bill even though we all protested and went to the limo. I didn't know about them but I was starving.
We arrived at the limo and headed to Esme's room for lunch. She must have timed this right because there was a beautiful lunch buffet waiting for us. We each sat down and ate carefully. I was so hungry I could have sucked the lint off the carpet but I withheld.
"Can I ask where the guys are?" I carefully took a bite of the pasta salad. It was good but mine was better.
"They are with their dad playing golf. They do it every year but this year is special to all of them." I noticed Esme paused and looked at the others. Something was up and I was not part of this little secret they were keeping. I didn't want to pry but I was curious just the same.
I heard my cell phone ring and went to get it out of my purse. It was Angela telling me everything was set up and it looked spectacular. She said Alice had done it again but she said wait till you see it. I told her to have a good time with Ben and enjoy the extra time they had deserved it.
I went back to the girls and they stopped talking when I walked back into the room. I did not know I was a chat killer. I just looked at them and said that Angela had set things up with Ben.
"Alice just exactly what did you do for decorations? Angela said you out did yourself." I took another bite of pasta salad.
"Just you wait! I think it is my best work yet!" She was bouncing in her seat. Whatever calmed her down at the spa had worn off.
"Ladies we better finish up as it is getting late. We have dresses to get into and men to see." Alice frowned when she looked at me.
"I will be ok. No matter what happens tonight. I will be ok."
Alice wanted us each to go in to get dressed one at a time. She wanted each of us to be surprised at how we looked. Esme went first. She was so quiet when she got dressed but it did not take long. I knew I was going to take some time as I was still new to all of this.
She came out in a beautiful strapless dress. It was a green color but not grassy green. Alice pointed out it was celadon. It had a sweetheart neckline that was embellished with sequins, beads and rhinestones. The bodice was pleated and the skirt was straight. She looked so beautiful and I was sure Carlisle could not keep his eyes off of her. Her mask was different that what I had seen at the shop. It was in silver and matched the beading on her dress. It was all metal and was like fine lace. It was bigger than our masks too. It framed her face like it was made for her. She mentioned that Carlisle had this made especially for her one year. She always wore it and made sure the dress she wore matched it. Esme told us that Carlisle wore one like it but it was plainer and more rounded.
"Do you think Carlisle will like it?" she asked us all looking in the mirror. We all told her she would knock him off his feet.
Rosalie went next. She was nervous to wear something like this being pregnant. She took longer than Esme did. I heard her groan and lock the door.
"I am not going!! Tell Emmett to dance with that horrible Palmer woman."
I looked at everyone. Esme was worried I saw it in her eyes. Alice just sat there not knowing what to do. I got up and knocked on the door.
"Rose please come out. I am sure you look beautiful. How could you not. Please come out you are scaring us all."
I heard the door unlock and it slowly opened. Rose slowly came out in a river of red. She was breathtaking. The dress was not as shiny as Esme's but still shone in the light. It was strapless and very simple. The bodice was swept to one side creating a slight gather in the fabric. It was very straight and flared out at the bottom in layers of tulle and fabric. She had put on black satin gloves that came up to her elbows. Her mask was a lot like ours though more rounded and curvy. It was black and red and sparkled like Alice's. She said that Emmett would wear one like hers. She told us that she hated seeing couples match but is the one time she gave into it. Her bump slightly showed but you could tell she was pregnant. She was one of the most beautiful pregnant women I knew.
"Rosalie, you look beautiful. Emmett is not going to take his hands off of you. "
"That is what got us here in the first place." She put her hands on her blooming tummy. We all laughed and hugged her.
It was Alice's turn. I knew what her dress looked like and she was going to knock the girls out of their dresses. She took her time and slowly came out. They saw her in an elegant gown glowing in pink.
"Alice you look like cotton candy. Good enough to eat. I think we are going to need another room because Jasper is going never let you go. "Rosalie slowly sat on the couch next to Esme. Esme rolled her eyes and said she did not want to know about her son's sex lives. We laughed again at that and the look on her face. Alice took out the special facial glue to affix her mask to her face. She handed both the glue and my mask to me.
"Scoot Bella you are next!" Alice pushed me into the room. I heard a knock on the door but continued to get dressed. I noticed a beautiful panty and strapless bra set. It matched my dress exactly. I slowly pulled the dress over my head. It felt wonderful on my skin and pulling my gloves up my arms made me shiver. I was so grateful I had not messed up my hair or makeup.
I opened the door slowly and heard gasps. I was not sure if it was good news or not. All at once they told me how beautiful I was. Esme came up to me and kissed me on my forehead. I knew she considered us her daughters just like she did with Rosalie.
"Now I have a surprise for all of you!" She went over to the table and laid out were boxes upon boxes. She had jewelry delivered to the room for us to pick out something. I saw a man standing next to the table. I thought Emmett was big but this man was fucking huge! He was there to watch over the jewels and then take them back to the vault. He would also come to get them in the morning.
"Now these are all on loan so we cant keep them but put out your feminine power and they might just be ours one day. " We all laughed at the thought of Esme telling us she didn't want to hear about her son's sex lives and on the other hand she was telling them to give in.
Rosalie chose a simple diamond necklace and earring set. It gave her dress just enough sparkle and made her even more beautiful. Alice chose a single strand of pearls with matching earrings. They made her look so elegant.
"Bella when I saw this I thought it would be perfect for you." I saw Esme take out a beautiful pearl and diamond choker. In the middle was a rectangle with a floral pattern in diamonds. Seven strands of small pearls went around each side. I lifted my hair and she put it on me carefully enclosing the clasp. There were matching earrings that matched the middle of it. I looked breathtaking if I don't say so myself.
"Picture time!! Look your best ladies. Let's make some memories!" Alice literally bounded for the door. I thought I told her to stay away from the Red Bull.
What pictures? No one said anything about pictures. At least I looked as good as the rest for once. Alice explained that she had a photographer brought in. She thought that people would want memories of tonight's event. The wall of a man left with the rest of the jewels. We headed down to the lobby so they could meet the men.
Alice had kept the lobby simply decorated. It had twinkle lights in all the bushes and trees. I noticed the area for pictures as you couldn't miss the flashes of blinding light. It had a simple background and matched anything.
I heard a gasp and turned around. There stood Carlisle, Emmett and Jasper. Edward was no where to be found. Maybe he was not coming which would be so like him to bail on his family. Carlisle walked up to Esme and kissed her. It was simple kiss but there was meaning to it. Jasper slowly walked up to Alice and walked around her. Alice beamed as he looked up her and down. He took her in his arms and looked into her eyes. I had to look away because I felt awkward looking in on a moment with them. Emmett quickly walked over and swept Rose into a deep kiss as he dipped her. She giggled as he brought her back up.
I looked around the beautiful hotel and hoped that he would see me. How would I know it is him? I told him that I would be in blue but there were a lot of women wearing blue. I heard someone call my name as I shook out of the thoughts in my head.
"Bella are you ok? You are really quiet." I knew what Alice was getting to. She had not a clue how I felt about all of this.
"Alice I am just taking in all your breath taking work." I turned around and everyone was looking at me.
"Ok what is wrong and why are you all staring at me? It is making me more nervous that I already am. The damn heals I was wearing were out of the norm for me. Alice knowing my fetish with Elvis had blue suede stilettos made for me. They were beautiful but death traps all the same.
"Bella…wow…you are breathtaking…..no man is going to keep his hands off of you…..your dance card is going to be full tonight." They all talked at once and I just rolled my eyes at them.
"Ladies let us go get our pictures taken. The men already did theirs and then we can do couples." I heard Esme stop suddenly. I knew what she had said and I knew she was upset that she had said it.
"Esme it is ok. I am just happy to be here. Alice and I can get one done. Everything is ok." I hugged her.
"Bella I just want you to have what we all have. We all have worried so much about you." Tears had started in her eyes.
"Someday…….." I had left it at that. We all walked to the photographer and waited for our turn.
Esme and Rosalie were in back with the two of us in front. The photographer took several and mentioned about a mother having beautiful daughters. Esme beamed at that. Alice and I went next as I wanted to go see what she had done. I wanted to leave the couples to enjoy their photo session. Esme and Carlisle were up first as I left them.
I walked into the ballroom and gasped. The theme was Alice in Wonderland. At one end was a huge orchestra and to the side a DJ. I laughed at that but knowing Alice she wanted all tastes to be enjoyed. They were all dressed in tuxedos with dripping red roses. The DJ had rabbit ears on and was going through CDs.
The tables were round with black and white covers on them. They each had a different centerpiece on them. Some were wrought iron and covered in dripping red roses. They had cards dangling down from different branches of the candelabra. The candles were white but sparkled. I always wondered how she did that and not making them more flammable than they already were. The other tables had small tea pots full of white roses. On all of the tables were small white boxes at each place setting. I saw a women open them and inside was a pocket watch ornament. I am sure they were engraved with the dates as Alice was into details like that.
Waiters were dressed in black tuxedos with red and white accents. Their ties and cumber buns had the card symbols on them. The waitresses wore the same dress as Alice in the book. They were short but tasteful. Each of them had a black ribbon in their hair to complete the look. They all carried mirrored trays full of different drinks. I noticed the glasses had the card symbols on them too. I noticed double doors at the other end of the room.
I went to it and the buffet had been laid out here. There was so much food and I was glad I didn't have to do that. Alice must have told them how to decorate it because everything was in a silver bowl or on a mirror. At the other end was the dessert buffet. All of our work was being tasted. I was so proud of Angela and Ben. The set up was beautiful. I laughed at the cookies we had decorated specially for this event. Angela and I laughed over her story behind the "EAT ME" cookie. I blushed at the thought of that.
I turned around and went to find the others. I am sure we already had a table. Alice had mentioned that The Cullen's had the same table every year. I looked around the ball room and didn't see them. I went back to the picture area and they were just finishing up. I told Alice she out did herself this time.
Esme took Carlisle's arm and walked in. Emmett took Rosalie's hand and followed them. Jasper and Alice just stood there looking at me.
"Bella I would be honored to walk you in. Who would pass up to have two beautiful ladies on my arms."
"I guess you will do." I rolled my eyes at him and took his arm. Alice took his other and we walked into the ballroom. Let this night begin and I hope it would last forever.
I saw the rest of our little group at the table. As we approached it Carlisle pulled my chair out for me. Jasper did the same for Alice too. I noticed an empty seat and asked about it. They said Edward had been detained but would see us all later. Everyone got up to dance and I sat and watched all the people. There were some beautiful dresses with matching masks here. I could hardly contain my laughter when I saw Mrs. Palmer enter wearing a bright orange dress with matching mask. They had brought us a lot of business but she drove us both insane. I turned around so she would miss me. I was relieved when she missed me and went to her table.
Everyone came back and I told them what I had seen. We all laughed and Carlisle mentioned something about crazy women. We all laughed harder at that. Emmett mentioned something about food. I agreed with him this time. We all waited in the short line to get a plate of the wonderful food. There were so many options that I just took a bit of what I thought would be good. We all carried our plates back to our table when Emmett said he would be right back. He was gone for awhile but came back with two huge plates of desserts.
"I thought it might be easier that way. Bella I can't wait to taste your delicacies you made for all of us tonight. "I shook my head at him.
We all talked and ate while we watched people get up and dance. I have to say Alice did a great job making sure all genres were covered. I heard Esme moan when she bit into the chocolate mouse we had made. They all enjoyed all the desserts we had worked so hard on. Esme wanted the recipe for the mousse. I normally don't give out my recipes but I would do anything for this women and her family.
"Look Rose…EAT ME!" Emmett bit into the cook and smiled at her. She playfully smacked him on the arm and kissed him on the nose. We all laughed at that and Esme shook her head at him. Carlisle and Esme loved their boys. They were going to make great grandparents. Their grandchild would be spoiled but loved too.
I heard the director of the orchestra speak something about the next song being for the princess in blue. I whipped my head around and started looking around for him. This had to be him. Only he called me princess and I told him what color I was wearing that night. Across the room I saw a man with a blue rose in his hand. I wobbled as I got up but Jasper came to my rescue again and held me steady.
"Bella go he is waiting for you." She kissed me on the cheek and went back to the table.
I couldn't move as my body and mind were going in different directions. I just looked at him. His hair was slicked back and he wore a black tuxedo with blue accents. His mask was similar to mine. I was in awe that he did this all for me. I shook off the battle and slowly walked over to him. He took my hand and kissed my knuckles softly. He brushed the rose on the side of my face and its perfume wafted through my nostrils. He led me out to the dance floor as the music started. I couldn't help but look into his eyes. There was something familiar about them but I was so in the moment I pushed it back into my mind. He embraced me and we started dancing to the music. I was home in his arms.
We were going around the dance floor and I noticed the others had joined us. Everyone just smiled at us. There was something behind the twinkle I saw in their eyes. The music was so beautiful but then I realized what song it was.
"Wise men say only fools rush in
But I
cant help falling in love with you
Shall I stay
Would it be a
sin
If I cant help falling in love with you
Like a river
flows surely to the sea
Darling so it goes
Some things are
meant to be
Take my hand, take my whole life too
For I cant
help falling in love with you
Like a river flows surely to the
sea
Darling so it goes
Some things are meant to be
Take my
hand, take my whole life too
For I cant help falling in love with
you
For I cant help falling in love with you"
He started humming in my ear and his breath tickled my ear. I tried to speak but he put his finger on my lips nodding his head no. I held on to the rose as he spun me around the room. I noticed we were glass conservatory. He held me tight and we just swayed to the next song by the DJ.
He dragged his nose along my chin from one side to the other. He slowly put his hand through my hair and then snuggled into my neck. I felt his hands moving to my waist as he looked into my eyes. Our heads leaned into each other and his lips embraced mine. My body was on fire as our lips mingled with each other. His tongue teased my bottom lip and I let him in. I put my hands through his hair as our tongues danced with each other. I heard him moan as he kissed me harder. I never wanted this to end.
We pulled apart and tried catching our breath. He wrapped his strong arms around my waist as I laid my head on his chest. We both just took in the moment never wanting it to end. I felt his hand move away from his face.
"Princess…..Bella…." How the hell did he know my name? I never told him that piece of information.
I still had my hands on his chest as I looked up. There stood Edward looking down at me with a smile on his face. Was this some kind of sick joke? How could someone be so cruel to another person?
"Bella let me explain myself." He tried to take my hand and lead me to a bench but I pulled back.
I wanted out of here and away from the humiliation. I held back the tears and just looked at him. I turned around to leave and he grabbed my hand again.
"Bella please let me explain why I did this. Please don't go." He looked back at me trying to figure out what I was going to do next.
I had no words for him. What I was feeling was so mixed up. All I could think was to get the hell out of there and away from him. I turned around and tried to get through the crowd. The tears were slowly falling down my cheeks as I said excuse me to each person I bumped into. I heard my name being called over the music and I kept going. Alice must have seen me and followed me out to the lobby.
"Bella what is wrong please tell me what happened? You looked so happy in his arms and then this." She just stood there looking at me with sadness in her eyes.
"Do you know who that was?! Is this some kind of sick joke?" I went on to tell her who it was but stopped me.
"Bella give Edward a chance. You fell in love with him please let him explain." She tried to hug me but I pushed her back.
"You fucking knew about this!!"
"Bella let me explain. Let us all explain please." I noticed that everyone was standing at the door way looking at me.
It all made sense now. The comments from everyone, the looks they gave each other and Edwards attempts at being a human being. I didn't know how long this had been going on but tonight was the end. I dropped the rose that was in my hand and Alice watched it fall to the floor in pieces.
"This is some kind of sick joke to play on a person." I tried to spew out all the anger and hurt that I was feeling at that moment. The tears were flowing readily now. I tried to keep my balance but started to fall.
"Fucking let me go! Just let me go!" I was yelling at this point but I didn't want to make a scene. Jasper and Emmett backed off as they let me go.
I saw them all looking at me with sadness in their eyes. Tears were slowly falling down the girl's faces. I wanted them to hurt as much as I did right now. I wanted their hearts ripped out like mine was. Emmett took Rosalie into his arms and held her. Jasper tried to hold Alice but she just stood there. Esme was silently crying and Carlisle was no where to be found.
I quickly turned around and started running. I didn't know where I was going but I wanted out of this place. I heard Alice cry out to me but I just ran from her. I could hear my shoes on the pavement as the noise echoed on the street. I don't know how far I went but I stopped to catch my breath in front of a closed deli. I looked into the window and saw my face. I looked horrible but not as bad as I felt. I pulled my cell phone out of my little bag and called a cab. I told them where to find me. Alice must have tried calling cause my call waiting kept beeping in. I ignored the calls as I got into the cab. The driver asked where to go. I didn't know where to go but decided to go home.
I was dropped off at the back of the coach house and paid him. I am sure I was charged too much but at this point I didn't give a shit. I ran up the stairs and slammed the door. I took off the dress and laid it on the bed. I pulled the shoes off and set them besides it. I slowly took off the jewelry and placed it next to the shoes. I pulled the pins out of my hair and brushed it roughly. I grabbed a sweatshirt, jeans, warm socks and my boots. I didn't know where I was going but I wanted to be prepared. I threw an extra set of clothes into my backpack along with my wallet. I grabbed my car keys and never looked back. I got into my car, opened the garage door and backed out. I shut the door and set the alarm by remote. I wanted the hell out of here and fast.
My phone was ringing off the hook. I looked at the display and noticed my voice mail was full. Alice kept texting me but I turned the ringer to buzzer and threw it in the back seat. I cranked up the radio and kept driving.
The music pounded in my head as the street light passed me. I drove over the bridge and entered Vancouver. I stopped for gas and some bottled water. I got back in and kept driving. I took each highway as it lead me on my travels. I came into Seattle and tried to find a hotel. I wanted something nice but safe. I pulled into the first one I saw and paid for valet parking. The hell with saving money and the hell with everything else I just wanted to be left alone in my sorrow and humiliation. I paid for a single room under my mother's name. I didn't want to be found. The bellhop walked me too my room. I gave him a tip and closed the door latching it with the safety latch.
I turned out the lights the bellhop turned on. I threw my back pack on the bed and crawled into an empty corner of the room and just sobbed.