Thank you all for your awesome reviews once again. I don't own these characters but I do own the new snow outside. The songs for this chapter are "It Came Upon A Midnight Clear" by Edmund Hamilton Sears, "I Think We Are Alone Now" by the Beatles, "1, 2, 3, 4 (I Love You) by Plain White T's, "I'll Be Home For Christmas" by Elvis, "Peace on Earth/ Little Drummer Boy" by Bing Crosby and Davie Bowie and "Love Me" by Yiruma. I hope you enjoy this!

BPOV/CHRISTMAS DAY

I woke up feeling better than ever. For the past three weeks sleep came hard to me. Last night I slept like a log. I slowly rolled over and noticed Edward was sleeping on his back with his hands over his head. I carefully propped myself up on my elbow and watched him breath. I never realized before just how beautiful he really was. His Adam's apple was not too small or too big for his neck. I perfectly fit the nape of his neck and it was my place to feel warm when I was next to him. His jaw was hard, squared and made his cheeks sit perfectly on their frame. His lips were deep red with a slight angel peak to them. They were plumb and I loved kissing them endlessly. His nose fit perfectly to his face. His eyes were like looking into emeralds. They sparkled and shined when he was happy but I noticed they would go slightly brown when he was upset or angry. His forehead was smooth and refined unless he was frustrated then it went into a gaggle of lines all the way up to his hair line. His hair was one thing that made me love him. No matter how much he tried to wrangle it into something refined it always rebelled.

The past few days had been hell for me as I was trying to figure out how to explain how I felt to him. I told him last night but I also put it down in a letter for his box. Through all of the yelling and emotions we had made it through. He finally realized I was not going anywhere and he realized that I was ok to deal with things on my own. After all that we had gone through I knew where I wanted to be and that was with him.

I slowly got up and out of bed as not to wake him. I knew he had been jet lagged from the trip but I think it was more from our fight and his worry. I decided to shower a little later after I got everything done for tonight. I grabbed my clothes and went to see if Alice was up but she was already gone. I was sure she was next door enjoying her time with Jasper. As I walked over I saw Esme in the window and waved to her. She had this frown on her face but I made the motion with my hand that I would call her. She smiled at me softly but I know what was going on in her head well in all of their heads. They wanted to know if Edward and I were ok.

I unlocked the door, unset the alarm and went to turn the tree on. I turned on some Christmas music too. This year was different as I was here in my own home but had my family around me and a man that loved me despite all the shit. Last year I sat in some party thrown by friends of our parents bored to death. I picked up the phone and heard Esme wish me a Merry Christmas. I just came out and told her that things were fine and Edward was still sleeping as I didn't have the heart to wake him.

Everyone got home so late last night that they had not opened their presents yet so she asked if they could open them tonight after dinner. I said that was fine as I wanted to know what they got each other as much as they did. I told her I made breakfast and would bring it over. She said that she was grateful that I was coming to their rescue. I told her to send over Jasper and she took that as a hint that we needed to finalize plans for tonight. I knew that Jasper could not hold it a secret from his family that he was going to ask Alice to marry him. In some ways he is as bad as Alice is when it comes to things like that.

I went through my list to make sure everything was ready. The halibut, salmon and shrimp were ready to be cooked. The antipasti tray was already set to go out but I still had the crustini to cut for it. The bruschetta was ready for their topping and bagged up sitting on the counter. I had to cook the kale, broccolini and make sure the eggplant parmesan was ready to go. I hoped they loved all this. I had decided to do a take on the Feast of the Seven Fishes but I knew all the seafood would be too much so I did my take of it. The one thing I was sure of was that the cookie train would take two people to take it out. It had grown to enormous proportions and I had way to much fun decorating it.

I went about the kitchen getting all the ingredients ready for the tiramisu. It was easy to put together and would be ready by the time dinner came around. I finished it up and carefully put it in the fridge. I started doing dishes and putting things away when I looked at the rum I put in it. It dawned on me that Rose couldn't have that. I sat down at my desk and started going through recipes that I could put together quickly for Rose to have her own dessert. I must have been deep in my train of thought because Jasper was staring at me from the doorway.

"Edward was right when he said that you are at home in the kitchen." I looked up and saw that Jasper was smiling back at me.

I put the cookbook down and got up to hug him. It was nice to see my big brother again. He handed me the ring and I told him not to worry everything was ok. I handed him the stuffed French toast and I told him I would be over soon with the rest of it. I explained that I was trying to figure something for Rose. He kissed the top of my head and said not to be long. I told him the cooking information about the French toast and he left me to be alone.

I sat back down in my desk and looked through my cookbooks again. I wanted Rose to have something special just like the rest of us. I finally decided to make her a chocolate mouse. I knew she loved chocolate but with time running out it would be easy to make. I gathered crème, the chocolate and the gelatin paper I need among other things. I started to put things together and waited for things to come together and sat back down. I looked over my check lists for tonight and everything was coming together.

I was back in my own world dancing to the music as I stirred the mouse. I didn't hear him come in but I felt him put his around my waist and move my hair to kiss me. He looked in the bowl and I put my finger in and put it in his mouth and swirled it around. He moaned from the deepest part of his body and I smirked as I pulled it out.

"Bella you are going to make me spontaneously combust." He spun me around and put a hard kiss on my lips and lifted me up on the island. He held me tight as I swirled my hands through is hair. Our lips mingled and he tasted of chocolate and toothpaste. Our tongues danced with each other as our bodies molded to each other. I pulled back realizing I had to the get mouse in the fridge and we were due over at his brothers.

Poor Edward frowned when I hopped down off the counter. I put my hand on his cheek and smiled at him. I put the mousse in the fridge and handed him the fruit salad. I grabbed the platter of venison sausage and we walked hand in hand as we headed next door.

The plan I had cooked up with Jasper would come at dessert and it would all come together finally. I knew Alice was not expecting this nor would she know that I had a hand in it. I knew that our time as roommates was coming to a close. I knew with this ring I was losing my roommate but gaining a brother. Carlisle opened the door for us with a huge smile on his face. I was not sure if he was happy to see me or the food I prepared.

Rose and Emmett's house showed just like them, comfortable, stylish and homey. All the decorations fit the house to a tee and I was happy to have them as neighbors. I brought back the thought of who was going to move next door to the other side of us. That Victorian house had been on the market for just a few weeks. I could hope with all my might that Jasper and Alice would move into it but I knew it was not Alice. The only reason we had the place we had was I felt it was home. I think she gave into me to see me happy.

Esme took the bowl of fruit from Edward and I followed her in with the sausage. She had already put the French toast in to cook so breakfast would be forthcoming. Emmett came in to see what the hold up was as he was starving. Emse became so frustrated with him she chased him out of the kitchen while hitting him on the ass with a spatula. I was laughing so hard that I fell on the kitchen floor with tears in my eyes. I ended up taking the platter of sausage down with me and thank goodness the plastic wrap kept is hold.

I sat there laughing and thinking no matter what happened this was the best Christmas ever so far. I heard Edward chuckle at me from the door way.

"Are you comfortable down there or do I need to get you a pillow?"His eyes were twinkling at me.

"Screw the pillow and help me up. Your family makes me hysterical to the point I lose my balance. It is not my fault." We both looked at each other when I said that and we both started laughing again.

I unwrapped the sausage and put them in a frying pan. Edward said to go enjoy everyone as they were missing me. He said not to worry he wouldn't dare burn them. I kissed him on the lips and walked into the living room. Rose was curled up into Emmett's lap and he had a frown on his face after that little tirade from his own mother. Jasper and Alice were in a chair together and Carlisle and Esme were on the other couch. I plopped down next to Esme and put my head on her shoulder.

"Bella Alice tells us you have a feast ready for us for dinner tonight." Carlisle was holding Esme's hand and was rubbing his thumb over it.

"It is not ready yet I still have cooking to do. My dear pixie friend over there put the kibosh on a few days work after my little emergency room visit." I pointed to her and she stuck her tongue out at me.

"It was for your own good. I don't think you realize just how loopy you get on pain pills." Everyone laughed with her.

"I can just imagine as I am klutzy enough not on them." I waved my injured hand around.

I heard Edward call from the kitchen that some timer was going off and Esme got up to head back into the kitchen. I tried to get up but she said I did the hard part let them do the rest. Then she told Jasper, Carlisle and Emmett to set the dinning room table. They all hung their heads and got up to go do their work. We girls giggled as we watched them try to figure out what went where.

"My dear friend is why we women set the table and the men sit and eat." The men went upstairs to wash as we checked their work.

We howled with laughter as we saw three forks at one place setting, one missing utensils all together and what ever else hell they created. The three of us quickly fixed things as everyone came to sit down. It was perfect that there were seats for everyone. I realized that Ben and Angela were missing and I had not heard from them in a few days. She had called when I was in my drug induced stupor but I still needed to call her.

Esme brought out the platter of French toast and I saw the rest carefully placed into Edward's hands. We all sat down and enjoyed the food I had cooked. Emmett was going for a third helping until Rose reminded him that we still had dinner later. He promptly replied that he was eating for three and to indulge him. Rose kissed him on the cheek and sighed. She was happy that everyone was home but even happier that her husband was back with her.

I got up to help do dishes but Esme pointed at each one of the Cullen men and they all headed in for kitchen duty. It was damned funny to see all these masculine men wearing aprons and rubber gloves getting their work done. We sat and talked about the holiday and what time dinner was. I told them around 6pm as I still had work to do. Rose was happy to hear that as she could get a nap in.

She was looking so beautiful with her round tummy. I saw her just about every day and every time there was something different happening. I hoped that one day I would get the chance to have children but with my fertility history my doctor told me it might be a long hard road. I was not worried about it as I had dealt with it for a long time but Edward didn't know yet and I was not sure how to tell him. I knew that I had to tell him and this was one thing I didn't want to put in to his memory box.

The boys came back looking like they had done some huge task like killing a bear or something. Rose said that she needed to lie down as one of the children was making her sick to her stomach. Emmett helped her upstairs and said he would see us later. I took that as my cue to get to work on dinner. Carlisle and Esme were going to go to their house and pack up presents. Jasper said that it was his plan too. Alice looked at me and I told her to go with him. Most of the work was done and the rest I could do myself. Everyone took off in their own direction and I made sure the dinning room and living room were tidy again.

Edward was leaning up against the staircase looking at me with his beautiful green eyes. He stopped me and pulled me into his arms and placed a soft kiss on my lips. I wasn't sure what it was for even though I enjoyed it.

"Do you know how wonderful you are and how cherished you are by everyone?" He placed his forehead on mine looking into my eyes.

"I am sure if they adore me or the food I bring." I smiled when I said that and saw a frown in his face but then it changed.

"I think we are alone now and I know you have things to do. Do you want some help?" He kissed my lips again after he said that.

"Edward I would love some company and I am sure I can find something for you to do. I need a man to chop vegetables. No any one to fit that description?"

I was teasing him when I said that and the look on his face was priceless. At that moment Emmett came down saying he needed some help with some presents. It was obvious that he was behind being gone so long. Edward starting pouting when he knew we couldn't spend time together. I told him it was ok and that we would have the next week to spend all the time we wanted together. That made him happy and he kissed me as they went off to go figure things out.

I walked over to the main house to look at my lists and figure out what I needed to do. I also needed to call Angela and Mr. Xavier. I hoped that the presents we sent made it in time. I entered the kitchen and the phone began ringing. I was glad to hear it was Angela.

"Hi Ang! Merry Christmas! I miss you and Ben!" I was ecstatic to hear from her that I was jumping a little.

"We have missed you too! I am so glad you are feeling better and how is the hand? You had us so worried! We are having the best time and we can't wait to come home though. His mom is throwing this huge New Year's party for us. I get to meet all the family and I am hoping I don't make an ass out of myself."

"Angela it will be ok. Just be yourself and you will make them love you like we do. I am feeling better and tell Ben I know what hell is now. My hand is ok but still sore. I take it you have talked to Alice?"

"Of course she had to fill me in on assward and everything. Are things ok between you two now?"

We went on talking and I told her how he apologized and what I told him. She said good because she would have come back and smacked him around herself. She told me that she received some wonderful presents and would show them to me when they got back home. They had decided to take the trip we got for them when they got back here. She was hopping I wouldn't be to upset about it. Of course I wasn't. We had some down time and anything that came our way I could handle it. I told to go ahead and bring us back something special. We talked for a little while longer and then we both had to go. She was helping cook dinner and I still had a phone call to make. We hung up and I went through the rolodex to find the number I was looking for.

I dialed his number and got the answering machine. I told them we missed them and I hoped that they got our presents. I hung up and went to my lists. I decided to make a soup called Ribollita. It was a hearty bean soup served with crusty bread. I figured there would be leftovers for lunch tomorrow or for whenever. I got that all ready and put it on the stove and realized how late it was getting. I put the rest in the oven and made sure the before stuff was ready to go. I brought clothes over earlier and went up to take a hot bath. I needed it and I would make sure to put a clean rubber glove on my hand to protect it.

The one thing I loved about this old house was the huge claw foot tub. It was big enough for two people and I envied that it was in the main bedroom here. It had this special tray that went at the bottom of it so you could put soap or other things there. There was also a hand held shower head so you could wash your hair and rinse yourself off. I turned the water to as hot as I could stand it and got out of my pajamas. The hot water was so nice and the bath salts I put in there made it even more heavenly. I enjoyed the silence but still could hear the Christmas music on downstairs. I laid there till I dozed off kind of.

I could hear the phone ringing as it brought me out of my dream like state. I washed my hair and body and got out. I grabbed a fluffy towel and took the time to dry myself off. I carefully put on my panty set and the velvet dress. I picked out some great pumps that were velvet too that matched my dress perfectly. I put my hair up in big curlers and started in on my makeup. I normally don't go all out on the holidays but I knew tonight would be full of pictures and I wanted to look my best. I dried my hair and then took out the curlers and pulled the big chunky curls apart with my fingers.

I put a soft white ribbon in my hair and decided to look at myself in the mirror. I didn't look half bad hell I looked beautiful. I twirled around and looked at myself. I realized how beautiful my eyes were even though they were shit brown. My hair had red tints to it as the light hit it and it was not that unmanageable. My breasts looked damn great even though they were small. The rest of my body was normal but I noticed I was beautiful. After all these years I felt beautiful instead of a wallflower stuck to the damn wall.

I walked down the stairs and noticed the pile of packages was much larger than before. Knowing Alice the way I do she made sure no one saw what I had done till dinner. I went into the kitchen and stirred the soup breathing a sigh of relief it didn't burn. I could smell the rest of the dinner wafting through the air into my nose. I noticed the time and set out the bruschetta and anti pasti platter on the table in the living room.

I was putting garlic on the crustini for the soup when I heard Alice mumbling as she came in. I started giggling and she yelled back that the Cullen's were worse than us when it came to this holiday. I came out and the packages were over taking the dinning room. She was standing there fuming at that her perfect table was going to be ruined with it being so crowded. She was so happy when I told her she could decorate the table for dinner tonight. Hell she almost took me out when she bounced into my arms after that news.

I told her we could move some of them and put them around the gingerbread house and she thought it was brilliant of me to think of it. I noticed there were boxes in the dinning room and when I looked at them she said they were for the table. She said not to worry and to go back to the kitchen let her do her magic.

I heard her yell to me from the dinning room that I looked breath taking. I told her thank you and I still had a lot to learn. I heard her laugh as I heard the tape being ripped of the boxes. Alice had her own style when it came to the holidays. She had on a one piece sweater dress that was snow white. She had on matching leggings and stilettos to match. She looked like a huge snowball but it worked on her.

I made sure that everything was read for dinner. Everything had come together so perfectly that I was shocked as something usually got fucked up along the way. The time passed and I was broke out of my work haze as Alice came in with some napkins in her hand. She was mumbling under her breath about some stupidass supplier that didn't come through for her.

"Alice it will be ok if we don't have napkin rings." I sat down in the chair at the desk and we stared each other down.

"My vision for this dinner is now fucked up. I am such a failure." She put her head on the counter and just stood there.

I started giggling at the whole picture of it all. Something simple like this made her fall apart. I told her it was ok and then decided it would be perfect to use the antique cookie cutters. I was told I was fucking brilliant and she would never doubt me again. She said they would be perfect and fit right into the theme she had picked. I hadn't seen it and she wouldn't show me what she had done till it was perfection. I told her to help herself and she was off like a breeze.

I decided to leave everything in the pans I put them in. It would make cleaning up easier on me later. I was happy to see my china being used once again to celebrate something special. I heard Alice call out to me to come see her work. I walked into the dinning room and stopped in my tracks.

The table was set with a white table cloth with threads of colors that matched the tree decorations. The table settings were my fine china but had chargers of gold underneath them. The napkins were tied simple with the cookie cutters around them. English poppers were put on each plate and there were tons of candles all over the table. She had put glass candy ornaments all over the table. The wine and water glasses glittered in the candle light. It was beautiful and was perfect. She left room for platters and bowls of food to be set down. I hugged her and told her that her magic was back. I walked back into the kitchen to start checking on things again.

I heard everyone coming up the front stairs in a clatter of talking and chattering. Emmett busted through the door yelling bring on the food. I heard everyone laugh at him and the talk starting again. I heard them gasp when they saw everything around them. I heard my name called and I took off my apron and went out. Everyone was staring at me as I came out. Esme came over to me and hugged me.

"Bella we never expected this. The stockings are perfect and Rose is now crying as she saw the ones for the babies."

I really didn't know what to say other than they were welcome. Rose came over amongst her sniffling and told me it was the highlight of her day so far. Esme had made one for her house but Rose said she was not expecting me to do the same. Alice sat in the chair on Jasper's lap and I saw him wink at me. I winked back carefully letting him know things were perfect. Emmett was tucking into the food on the table and Esme and Carlisle were going on and on about what I had made for them.

Edward stood near the fireplace looking at me with his green eyes twinkling at me. I said that if we were going to have dinner on time I needed to get things on the road to sort of speak. I left him there watching me walk back into the kitchen. I had to take a moment when I saw how gorgeous he was standing there in black corduroys and a white shirt. Every time I looked at him I knew I loved him and was not letting him go.

I started putting the soup in the bowl when I felt hands around my waist. I felt my hair being moved slowly and a kiss being put on the back of my neck.

"You are breathtaking you know that. You took my breath away when you came into the room. I didn't know what to say. Everyone mentioned when you walked out how beautiful you looked."

He twirled me around and put his hands around my waist hanging on to me tight. He kissed me softly and slowly. Our tongues swirling together and we were in our own moment. I heard a rough cough behind us and saw Jasper standing there looking at us.

"You two don't need mistletoe. I came to help as everyone is gushing over everything out there. "

I blushed and handed him the soup. I grabbed the crustini make sure it would be under the soup when I plated it. I took things out of the oven carefully and Edward helped Jasper take them to the table. Alice was out there obviously barking orders where she wanted things. I took the last dish out and Alice pointed to where she wanted it.

I noticed everyone was wearing shades of blue, green, snow white and red. It was a beautiful sight. Carlisle sat at the head of the table and was going to move when he noticed me but I told him he was the head of the family and that is where he was going to sit. His chest got all puffy and if he could have preened like a peacock he would have. The wine had been poured with Rose getting water. I was going to drink water too but she said this was a party and it would not hurt her feelings if I had a glass.

Carlisle said to bow our heads as he was ready to say the prayer. Edward had told me long ago that they were not religious but when it came to the holidays they always said thanks for what they received and were about to receive. The words poured out of Carlisle's mouth like water in a bubbling brook. Every word meant something to all of us. He said how proud of his family he was and that his boys were the best thing that they had done. He was happy to be a grandfather and was happy to have his new daughters in his life. I had tears in my eyes when he was done and Edward kissed me when he noticed them.

The soup passed along with the rest of the dishes. I explained each one and what ingredients was in them. They all were shocked as to how much planning and work I had put into this. Carlisle and Esme both told me that they were proud of me. It made me feel warm and content deep down inside. We ate dinner and talked about what we wanted for the year. Emmett and Rose just wanted healthy babies. I knew what Jasper wanted and Alice said that she wanted the business to grow even further than it had. Edward said he was content with what he had in his life and that included me. I was asked what I wanted and for once I didn't have an answer.

For once I was not hoping for someone to love me, I was not hoping for happiness and I was not hoping for the best. I had it all and I was content.

Everyone enjoyed the dinner and Emmett was happy to hear that there were plenty of leftovers. I swear that man has a hollow leg. If any of their children take after him they are screwed in the grocery department. I got up and started bringing in dishes. Esme got up to help and so did Alice but I told them to sit down and enjoy themselves there was not much to it.

It didn't take much time to cover and put everything away. I did put the soup back in the original pot and quickly washed the bowl it was in. I took out the tiramisu and put it on dessert plates. I had made special sugar domes for them to be covered with. It served for a garnish for one reason but also hid the engagement ring for Alice. I also put the chocolate mousse in a bowl and put some white chocolate shavings on it. I made sure that morning to put the bottles of champagne in the fridge to cool. I took them out so they would be perfect for the moment that was about to happen.

I carefully prepped everything and took it out. I set it down on the side board making sure Alice was the last one to receive hers.

"Rose I am sorry but I had to make you chocolate mousse as I put rum in the tiramisu." I handed her the bowl. She had a huge smile on her face as she saw it.

"Bella I am ok with it. Your mousse is one of my favorites." I was happy that she would enjoy it.

I saw Alice take off her sugar dome and her mouth fell open. Jasper got out of his chair and went over to her and bent down on one knee.

"Alice, the moment I saw you that night I knew you were the one for me. You completed my heart and I would be so happy if you would become my wife."

Alice was smiling and crying and laughing and nodding yes. Jasper put the ring on her finger and pulled her into his arms for the most passionate kiss ever. Everyone was clapping as I got up to go get the champagne. Esme must have been reading my mind because she took out the champagne flutes out of the hutch for me. Carlisle took it upon himself to pour everyone a glass. Rose sat there enjoying her sparkling water. We all told them congratulations and everyone got up to give the happy couple hugs and kisses. I needed some air so I went out to the back porch.

The night air sent goose bumps up and down my arms. It was clear and cold but I could see clouds rolling in. New snow would be here making everything fresh and new. The stars were twinkling against the jet black night. I was happy that my best friend was getting married. I was happy she found someone that made her life complete. My daemons reared their ugly heads again when I realized that this was the start of something special but the ending of it too.

I knew the moment he put that ring on her finger I was losing my roommate. I knew we would never lose contact even with us in business together. Our friendship was not like that. Even when we fought we were usually blubbering on each other apologizing at the same time. Alice completed me like I completed her. She brought out the fun side to my calm side. Hell even her fashion sense was rubbing off on me. I was going to miss her more than anything. I missed my parents and this was damn close to that kind of pain.

"Bella are you ok?" I felt his hands wrap around my waist and move my hair again to kiss the back of my neck. I felt him put his chin on my shoulder and he held me tighter.

I stood there listening to him breath and I knew I needed to open up to him about what was in my head. This was neither the time nor the place to be discussing it.

"Edward everyone is waiting for us. We need to go back inside before Emmett opens all the presents."

I slowly broke the embrace and noticed the frown on his face. I didn't mean to upset him when I did that. I put my hand on his cheek and kissed him on his pouty lips.

"I am not pushing you right now about anything but we can talk about it later. You are right about Emmett. I don't know if Rose is going to have two kids or three."

Our fingers entwined as we went back inside. I was in no mood for dessert and I noticed that Esme had cleaned up. I was happy to see it cause I knew with the mood I was in I would have broken down in tears.

Everyone was in the living room staking claim to a couch or love seat. That left the big chair for Edward and me. I sat on the floor between his legs. He started rubbing my shoulders and I tilted back so I could give him a half smile. I resettled myself and noticed Alice looking at me weird. I am sure she was picking up something from me. She had the weird way of noticing my feelings coming off in waves. Emmett came out with a Santa hat on and a load of packages in his arms. He handed everything out and the boys decided to do rock, paper, scissors to decide who was to open first. Emmett won that battle and was happily sitting next to Rose with a big shit eating grin on his face.

Esme said that she wanted us to do stockings first. I told them Emmett had a special present just for him. I waved my finger at Alice and she knew I needed some help. I had put a box over the train so no one would see it. I told him to close his eyes as we came out with it uncovered. I had made a small full size train complete with red caboose. The whole thing was made of sugar cookies and held together by royal icing. It was decorated with cotton candy for the steam, licorice, sweet tarts, other cookies and any other candy I could find. I saw that Rose had both of her hands spanning his face so he couldn't take a peek.

"Emmett you can open your eyes now." Rose took her hands off and he leaped off the couch and almost took us down train and all.

He was talking so fast about how cool this was and how he was not expecting a small model of it. He was expecting a box of just regular cookies.

"You know Bella; she never does anything small or ordinary." I stuck my tongue out at Alice when she said that.

We saw Jasper reach for one of the cookie wheels and Emmett growled at him. It was so funny to see this huge man get so territorial over some damn cookies and candy. We were all laughing at him and Rose kept rolling her eyes. I was happy to see that all my hard work had not only paid off but was thoroughly enjoyed. We put the train on the dinning room table as it was cleared off now. We proceeded to open our stockings.

I had knitted the boys hats and they proudly wore them. The girls got beautiful scarves. Alice said I was sneaky keeping it from her but I told her she needed to have something from me on this day. Everyone loved the gage gifts and Emmett took off the cap I made for him and replaced it with the beanie Rose got him. It was quiet a site to see. I hadn't noticed before but Esme and Carlisle were taking turns taking pictures.

Rose opened the package that Emmett handed her. It was a beautiful mother and child pendant all done in diamonds. She started shedding small tears when he put it around her neck. He handed her another package and she cried harder when she realized he bought her a new range rover. He said she was not the mini van type and this fit her.

She handed him the one present she bought for him other than the gage gifts. He was excited to see that it was a gift certificate for sports memorabilia for his man room. She told him she didn't know what he would want so he could pick it out himself. The both kissed each other and it was so sweet and romantic I had to look away when he put his hands on her belly. Jasper and Edward both pitched in and got them a custom made playground set for the back yard. We all knew that the whole family would enjoy that. Carlisle and Esme bought them new appliances for their kitchen.

Alice handed them the package from us. Rose carefully opened it and unrolled the scroll that Alice had made. Their faces went blank as they read it. Alice winked at me and we both waited the tears again.

"We get to design our own gazebo?" Rose's bottom lip was quivering and there went the tears down her cheeks.

"We both knew how much you loved ours and when I was in Seattle I found a company that did custom ones. I am glad you like it." Alice piped up that she was glad she didn't have to keep the secret anymore. Rose and Emmett got up and hugged us both and said they couldn't wait to see it in their back yard.

Carlisle and Esme were next. He was so quiet when he realized what Esme had bought him. She found the exact pocket watch that his grandfather had years ago. In an unfortunate turn of events his grandparent's house was robbed and the one thing he cherished was taken. He kissed her hard on the lips as he held it in his hands. She opened the small box he handed to her and she started crying. She held up a beautiful diamond encrusted dragonfly.

She told us that on their first date he won her this dragonfly pin at a carnival. It was not diamonds but she loved it because it was from him. Carlisle mumbled something about his arm killing him for days from throwing the damn softballs. The pin was lost long ago during a move. She kissed him hard as he pinned it on her blouse. They boys all chipped in and had their family pictures put into special made albums for them. They also had all their family movies put on CD for them too. Alice and I had chipped in to get them a gift certificate so they would get new pictures of the twins every month. The ones we saw were so cute with the babies dressed up as rock stars and what not. They both loved it and Carlisle said he could see some renovating coming with all the new pictures.

Alice said the next present was from us to the Cullen men as she put it. The boys all got up and went into a circle around Carlisle as he opened the envelope. Huge smiles took over their mouths and then they went crazy. We explained we got them a box suite for life so they could see their favorite team the Seattle Mariners. Esme shook her head at them till she saw it. She saw how posh it was and I told them that even the girls would love to be in it. There was even room for the babies when they entered the family.

Jasper and Edward decided that we would all unwrap together. Edward handed me a package wrapped in blue wrapping paper. I carefully opened it leading to a velvet box. I opened it and my mouth fell open when I saw it was the jewelry set I wore the night of the ball. I saw Alice hold up the pearl set she wore that night to me.

I really didn't know what to say as I never expected this. The room was silent till Esme spoke up loud and clear.

"I know I told you that the sets were barrowed but I lied. I am sorry for doing it to you both. Both sets were from my mother. She passed them down to me and wanted me to pass them down to my daughter. I was blessed with sons and I knew I would give them to their soul mates. Rose has the other set so please accept them. They are not only from the boys but they are from me too."

I quickly got up and hugged her. This meant so much tome that she would give me something that meant so much to her. As I finished Alice was hugging her next. Jasper had bought Alice some other things too but her ring was the main present. Edward put a present in my hands but a scream made me drop it.

"Bella the design meeting is for my wedding dress isn't it?" She looked at me with a huge Cheshire grin on her face. I was wondering when it would dawn on her what I had done. She jumped out of Jasper's arms and into my lap and started kissing me all over. She kept telling me thank you over and over again.

"Enough Alice I love you but the only persons tongue I want to feel is Edward's." She stopped and looked around and then fell into laughter.

Everyone laughed and for once I was the one not blushing. Edward had fallen back into the chair with his face turning bright red. I got up and sat in his lap and put a kiss on his lips. He held on to me tight and I knew I was forgiven.

"Damn straight…the only tongue I want to feel is yours too." He kissed me hard and fast as Alice handed me my package.

I opened the wrapping only to find a piece of paper. I took me a while but then I realized he had done. I scooted around and looked at his smiling face.

"You are taking me to Las Vegas?" I saw him nod and then I had a fucking light bulb moment. I whipped my head around and saw Alice smiling at me.

"Miss Kellie is ready for us to go shopping when ever you decide when you are leaving."

We had both kept beautiful secrets from each other and for once I was happy about them.

"Edward you do realize you have gone to the dark side with Alice when it comes to shopping. There is no coming back from that." Everyone laughed at me and Alice stuck her tongue out at me and then smiled.

"Bella we have one more for you from all of us. Alice told that she heard your sewing machine late at night so we thought this might help." Esme handed me another envelope.

I carefully opened it as not to give myself a paper cut. I pulled out a gift certificate for the craft store. When I saw the amount I knew I couldn't accept it. Carlisle saw the look in my face and decided to speak.

"Bella we know we went over board on you but let us do it please. You have done so much for all of us. Please let us do something nice for you."

I didn't know what to say to a thousand dollar gift certificate other than nodding yes. I looked at Alice and she was waving a gift certificate to Miss Kellie's. We both had been spoiled more than we really deserved.

It was my turn and I put the small present I made for him in his hand. He opened it and smiled at me. It had taken me many nights of figuring out what songs to play and record for him. He knew what it was and told everyone about it. I wanted to play for them but my hand was still healing.

I put the final package onto the side of the chair and he opened that one too. I heard a sigh come out of his mouth when he saw the heart shaped key and unlocked the box. He saw the first letter and carefully took it out. I saw his eyes going back and forth reading what I had written.

Edward,

You told me you never wanted to keep secrets from each other. This box holds my heart for you. The key is yours for eternity. These letters are my thoughts, hopes, dreams and nightmares. All for you to cherish, demolish or make come true. As long as we are together you will know what I am thinking.

I love you…-B-

He looked at me with tears in his eyes. It was not an expensive present but it is what my heart told me to give him. He put the letter back and locked it back up. I knew that he would never part with it and I would add to it when I felt the need to. He looked into my eyes and I knew he loved it. He didn't need to say thank you with words. He simply put a soft kiss on my lips and I knew. I got up out of his lap and grabbed the last package that was by the gingerbread house.

"I know the babies can't open these but I thought you could be the proxy for them." I handed the big box carefully to Emmett and Rose.

Emmett put it on his lap and let Rose open it. I saw both of their faces glow when she pulled out the matching knit sets I had made for them.

"I knit them all in white that way if you wanted to you can use them for the christening if you have one. You won't hurt my feelings if you don't. "

Emmett put the box on the floor and put me into a huge bear hug.

"Emmett there is more please go sit down as I can't breath." We all laughed as he sat down.

Rose pulled the quilts out one by one. They matched the nursery perfectly. They were not identical though as I had quilted starfish onto one and fish onto the other. That way each twin would have their own blanket. Rose was in tears again and this time I went to her.

"Bella they are beautiful. When did you find the time to do these? " Emmett and Rose were both looking at them. Emmett held them up one by one so everyone could see. Alice and Esme were now crying with Rose too.

"Damn crazy women, who would have thought it, would take material to make them cry." Rose playfully smacked Emmett.

Everyone sat around talking about plans for the week. I told them dinner again tomorrow night as there were plenty of leftovers. All the men got up and cleaned up the mess. They also took things out to Emmett and Rose's house. Jasper took his things to his truck. We started taking about the plans we had for New Year's Eve. Esme had made plans at the spa again for us and I was looking forward to it.

Alice said she was spending the night with Jasper and said she would see me the next day. It was getting late and everyone slowly got up to go home. Rose and Emmett hugged us all again and said they would never forget what I had made or what we had done for them.

I went to the kitchen as Edward talked with his parents. I made sure everything was turned off and ready for the night. I heard the front door close and lock. I came out and the lights were all off including the tree. Edward was standing there looking at me. He had his box in his hands and took my hand leading me to the back door. I set the alarm and locked it. We slowly walked over to the coach house hand in hand.

I noticed he set down a bag on the couch. I assumed it was clothes or some other necessities. I told him to make himself comfortable as I went up to get of my dress. Wearing velvet was not the most brilliant of ideas and it felt great to get out of it. I pulled on soft pajamas, washed my face, brushed my teeth and went downstairs. I was nearly at the bottom when I noticed the fire place was roaring, my guitar was floating through the air and Edward was reading one of the letters I wrote for him.

I went to sit next to him as he put it away and pulled me into his lap. I placed my head on his chest and felt his heart beating under his muscled torso. We didn't say anything for a long time but I knew he wanted to know why I left the party earlier. He slowly lowered us down on the couch with me on top and with his arms around on my back. I placed my head back on his chest and waited for the questions to be asked.

"Bella what happened tonight? We were all enjoying dinner then dessert and then Jasper asked Alice to marry him and you were gone."

I lifted my head up off his chest and put my arms under me with my chin on top. I looked into his eyes as he looked back at me with worry. Shit I didn't want to worry him as this was nothing to do about us.

"When Jasper asked me for permission to marry Alice I was elated. I knew that it would happen eventually as they revolve around each other. When she said yes I knew that tonight was the end. She is going to be moving out and I am going to be alone again. I don't know if I can deal with being alone again. I know it is stupid for a grown woman to be afraid but I am. I went from living with my parents to the Brandon's to living with Alice. I have never been on my own." I put my head back down on his chest and I felt him rubbing my back in circles.

"I am happy for her but jealous at the same time. How sick is that? My best friend, my sister is getting married and all I want to do is run from it."

"Bella there is nothing sick about that. You have been friends for a long time but I can tell you this, knowing Alice the way I do I don't think she is going to let this stop either of you from each other. I do know that Jasper wants her to move in to our loft but I told him no. I love my brother and I love Alice but I don't want to be around them all the time when are not there. How sick is that? Besides this may be a new journey for you. I think that living on your own will be the best experience for you."

"I now know how you felt the night I told you I cut myself and you freaked out. I don't want Alice to disappear. For as much as she drives me nuts I love her and I don't know what I would do if she was never to be in my life again." I felt tears slowly falling again.

"Bella my Bella, it will all be ok. You need to talk to her and tell her how you are feeling. I am sure she will understand. That is one thing that is Alice is she is understanding to a fault.

"Edward we both need help don't we?" I started laughing through my tears because this whole things was trivial compared to the lifetime Jasper and Alice were going to spend together.

Edward kissed my forehead and held tight to me. I heard the CD end and that left the crackling of the fire left to entertain the sound. I felt myself getting sleepy from being so comfortable and warm in Edward's arms.

We laid there listening to the fire crackle and pop. I was enjoying being in his arms and I never wanted this to end. I wondered what Edward would do if I asked him to move in with me. Was it moving too fast and would he freak out with all my quirky habits? Was it a step I wanted to take with him? I felt him kiss the top of my head as all of these thoughts swirled around in my brain.

"Bella you are falling asleep let me take you to bed ok. It will be more comfortable."

I pulled myself off of him and left Edward to make sure the fire was safe for the night. I fed the fish and locked the door and set the alarm. We went up to my room hand in hand. He rolled open the covers and crawled in. I went to his side and snuggled down into my spot, the spot I loved in his neck. I could feel the blood go through his veins, his soft breathing and it made me feel safe.

He lifted my chin and placed a soft kiss on my lips and we snuggled together. Christmas of 2008 would forever be engraved into my memory.