EPILOGUE
SIX YEARS LATER.
He was crazy. No, in fact; he was worse than that. He was flaming mad. Did he even stop to think for one minute what it would do if they were caught? The problems that it could bring? Did he even stop to think about what she would do to them if she found out?
Chances were, he probably hadn't. Nor would he ever.
Living in the moment, and treating every single day like it would be his last - despite him being immortal - was what Ryan conducted his life to now. There was no mourning, like most people do when they lose their mate, there was no moping around or feeling sorry for himself. It was always smiles, laughter, and god awful plans that Damien would be roped into coming along with.
It was only just last week that they were in the dog house for almost smashing a hotel window. Ryan was still hyperactive, and thanks to Bella touching him those six years ago in that battle, he still has that mild power in shielding himself from everyone around him.
Granted, if it wasn't for Bella basically handing a weaker-copy of her gift to him; Lilianna would most likely still be at large. Thanks to that, Ryan was able to shield himself and Mary from Alec's 'sleep-time' haze, resulting in Mary being able to take Lilianna down. The thought had crossed him as to why Bella hadn't gotten up herself; but in a situation like that... They were both pretty positive staying down and hoping Alec would deal with it himself was the best move.
Mary had been the brave one and took the plunge. They just wished Lilianna would have been able to react to Mary being the one to put an end to it.
"This is a bad idea." Damien said for the fifth time that night. "If we don't meet the others at the airport on time, Mary will blow a gasket."
Ryan rolled his eyes and pulled his hood up. For whatever reason, he was trying to act like a ninja. It might've been six years later; but that didn't mean Ryan had matured anymore. Honestly, Damien wouldn't be surprised if he had actually gotten more immature.
"It's just a quick in-out job, okay?" Ryan reached forward and pulled Damien's hood up. "Then you can get back to your precious Shay."
Damien's face stayed blank, though Ryan was sure he saw the smallest grimace of amusement in his red eyes.
"They're probably already there waiting on us..." Damien mused as he watched his closest friend, and forever-brother climb himself up a tree.
It was just like him to think something up so strange, and dangerous. Yet, like a fool; Damien wasn't able to refuse to go along. Mainly because if he didn't go with Ryan, he would still end up doing it alone - which wouldn't end well. At least with Damien following along, he'd have some sort of look out.
"Doubt it." Ryan grunted as he pulled himself up higher into the tree; located behind a rather modern looking home. If someone were to see this - despite it being stupid o'clock in the morning - they'd probably think they were trying to rob this house. In a way... They sorta were. But it wasn't that malicious. Ryan had many traits, but maliciousness wasn't one of them; and if he did... Damien had yet to see it. "When we left, Scotty was still packing. And Iris is complaining about shoes."
Damien rolled his crimson eyes as he reached up and began to pull himself up the tree also; keeping close onto the tail of his best friend. "I still don't get why you picked her."
"We're not getting into this, dude. I picked her, she's my girl. Let's leave it at that."
Ah, but they couldn't. Around two years ago, on a trip to Germany, Ryan came across a 'supernatural' fanatic. At first, the Chez Coven thought it was Ryan's way of letting of steam when it came to what he had lost. Sure, it had been four years at that point; but they could still see how it hurt him. He never let it show, but they could see it.
The way that they had met was hilarious, so to speak. At nothing more than a small halloween party - where they were able to roam around freely with their eyes on show, mingling with the human world. Ryan had thought it would be amusing to dress as a vampire's typical mortal enemy; a werewolf. The rest of them were just... Themselves. The human's must have thought they were either vampires, demons or just... Themselves with red eye contacts. Ryan was the one to committed to the role; and upon being at that party... He met Iris. A young girl dressed a red riding hood.
They matched without even meaning too; and since then, she'd been a part of their family. That was a conversation Damien wouldn't forget. Mary was not for letting him turn her, and yet Ryan wouldn't take no for an answer. If it wasn't for Scott taking Ryan's side - and sliding in the fact that perhaps she could help him get over Delilah - Damien doubted that Iris would even be with them.
Above head, Ryan was climbing along a tree branch towards a window. Truthfully, Damien had no idea why he was doing this. He could easily just jump up there. It must have been for a 'old times sake' thing; since he was being severely careful in where he was putting his hands. Reaching the ledge of the roof, Ryan stepped over and latched onto the window.
He fumbled around with it for a second before it unlatched and he was able to pull it open. Ryan disappeared inside and waved his hand for Damien to follow. Damien decided not to follow his actions and just leap into the window. With his feet firmly planted on the floor once again, Ryan looked around the fairly small room. The walls were a deep shade of blue, and scattered across them were pictures and posters.
"You look over there." Ryan pointed his hand towards the shelf containing books. Rolling his eyes, Damien nodded and walked slowly towards the bookshelf.
Ryan was ocupide with searching under the bed; grunting to himself as he kicked his way under. He now understood why kids were told to clean under their bed. It did make life a lot easier, and you found things you thought you'd never see again...
Ryan crawled back out with a small shoebox and stared at it in awe.
As he slipped the lid off, he reached inside and found the perfect picture.
This showbox was supposed to be a memory box. Something that would be used to look back on and reminisce; but this had been the first time he had seen it since he had placed it under his bed.
A long time ago, Delilah had admitted something to him about something she loved. It seemed only natural that he take her with her. Of course, she was always with him... But in this way, having a picture of her; was perfect.
Come to think of it, he was sure his mom had a memory box somewhere too. One of just a picture of her, rather than him and Delilah together. Even now, six years later, seeing her so close to him with his arm around her hurt. Back then, when he had been naive, she could have been his. Where as now, she was all he wanted and she was gone.
He wouldn't grieve her loss again. He had already done that when she had gone missing, before he found out what she had become. Delilah wouldn't want him to spend his eternal life grieving. He could still remember her words.
"You won't lose me, and if you do; then I don't want you to mope around alright? No butts, Ry. You'll move on and you'll be happy. It's what I would want. Besides, you have Scotty, Mary, Damien... And even shay now, to look out for if something were to happen."
Those words were what he lived by now. Those moments he had with her, where he got to relive all the reasons why he had become her best friend, were all he had left now. There was nothing wrong with what he was doing... He was moving on; but he just wanted a little reminder.
"I'll check the living room... Pretty sure she has a picture book down there." Ryan swiftly as he shoved the shoe box off his lap, causing it to tip over the floor. A soft shine from the tipped over box caught his attention, causing him to frown a little. Reaching forward; he pushed newspaper clippings and stupid memorabilia he had saved as a kid for no real reason at all, and stared in amazement as the dogtags came to the surface.
This had been his thirteenth birthday present, when he was dead set on joining the army. His mother, against her not really wanting to see her son be sent of, bought him these dog tags just to show that she supported him; no matter what.
He was positive he lost these a long time ago.
Turns out, he had just put them in his box for safekeeping and had totally forgotten about them. Ryan held them into his hand tightly as he picked up a small card from among the clatter; and grinned widely at himself.
"Hey, Dame!" He could picture the eyeroll Damien was currently giving him. He wasn't too fond of that nickname.
"Look," he held up the card; which also contained a little photograph of himself and his mother on the cover. He could still remember creating it as a child for Christmas. He must have been around six or seven, with the crappiest handwriting ever. But he had practiced curving the writing just for this card. Obviously, he had put the card in the box just to keep it out of his mothers sights; but forgot about it in the hype of Christmas day and his presents. Oddly, he was somewhat relieved he hadn't given it to her - for his mom threw out Christmas cards on the first of every new year.
The picture was one he wanted to keep...
His mothers arms wrapped around his shoulders, while he gave the biggest smile he could muster - despite missing his two front teeth. "Son of the year award goes to me, huh?"
Damien nodded with a scoff. "I'm sure no other kid made a card for their mom."
"Sour sport." Ryan stood up, kicking the mess back under his bed.
Come to think of it...
Why hadn't his mother changed his room? It had been a long time since he had gone missing; but it was exactly how he remembered leaving it. Hell, even the bed was a mess. Of course there was the distinguishing smell of his mother's scent lingering around; but he would have thought she changed it.
She had always joked about turning his room into her own personal yoga space when he moved out. Why hadn't she done that?
"Have you got what you're looking for? We need to get back, and preferably hunt like we said we were going to." Damien sighed.
"Yeah, yeah. Give me a sec, right? I'm sure theres a photo around here somewhere..."
Damien groaned and returned to looking through the messy bookshelf. Presently, he was trying to find a yearbook. One that would most likely hold a photograph of Delilah on her own, unless she skipped out on the yearbook photo's. This was supposed to be a simple job. In and out, like he had said. He didn't think he would actually have to go on about searching for things. It was bad enough that they were here. It wasn't just if Mary caught them that they'd be in trouble...
Wait a minute.
Damien paused with his hand on a book and looked over his shoulder. At the same time, Ryan froze at the door.
"Did you hear that?" Ryan whispered, though it was a failure.
"I thought you said she'd be working!" Damien hissed back darkly.
"Dude... It's been six years. She must've changed her schedule. Cut me some slack."
Damien was about to respond with something sarcastic when Ryan pulled the door open and vanished out of it. Quickly, the raven haired immortal rushed after his long-term friend. The little hallway was littered with pictures hanging on the wall. Pictures of family, of Ryan in his younger years, of Ryan's mother, a few with friends. All in all, Damien got a sense that this was a real family type home; despite it being in a rough area of Seattle. "Where the hell are you going?"
"Shh, keep it down..."
Ryan's hand was resting on a doorknob across the hall; and gently he twisted it. There was a silent click, and a small squeak as he pushed the door open. The scent of overpowering perfume washed over their faces. For Damien, it caused his face turn up in disgust, but for Ryan... It caused him to inhale as much of it as he could.
In the slumber of the bed, a curled up ball of skin and hair hummed silently. Their breathing was soft, and the heartbeat was like music to their ears; especially for Ryan.
Ryan moved to step inside, though the hand on his shoulder prevented him with a firm squeeze. "You don't want to eat your mom."
That was true. He didn't... But he didn't just want to leave. It was his mom, after all.
"I won't. Just... Gimme a sec."
He wasn't sure what it was in his voice, but it convinced Damien to nod slowly and retract his hand from his friends shoulder. Although both of them may be slightly famished, Damien didn't believe Ryan would stoop low enough to actually eat his mother. He showed good restraint when it came to those sorts of thing.
Ryan slowly stepped into the room, still clutching tightly onto the dog tags and Christmas card thats pages had turned yellow with age. His dark crimson eyes adjusted to the sight of his mother, sleeping soundly in her bed, her head sunk into the pillow, one hand resting over her chest; while the other lay palm up beside her head. Around her, while she slept... was his favorite leather jacket.
He guessed that was it. No matter how much time had past, a mother would never give up on her child. She'd never stop missing him, and to this day she was still surrounding herself in things that he had worn. For a moment, Ryan caught himself wondering what life would have been like if he had stayed a human.
He would be twenty four years old, most likely working in the store with Damien. Perhaps even have a family of his own... And his mom would be a grandmother. Boy, she woulda made one hell of a nana. Baking, sewing, knitting, the whole shabang.
As carefully as he could, Ryan sat himself down onto the edge of her bed, directly beside her sleeping body. It was a good thing she was asleep; since he probably wouldn't know how to deal with things if she was awake. She'd most likely freak out.
There was so much he wanted to say to her, but he just couldn't find the words.
Instead, he looked down to the card in his hand and smiled slightly. This... This pretty much said it all. All it needed was a little tweaking. On his mother's bedside table, Ryan leant over the opened the drawer. Just as he had suspected, she still kept a pen there. One of the many things she made sure she had; just incase she was to get a phone call and she needed to take a note while still in her bed.
Ryan quickly scribbled down onto the bottom of the card and set it down onto the pillow beside his mother's head. The dogtags in his hand, despite how much he wanted to keep them as a memorabilia; Ryan placed them onto his mothers limply laying hand. He watched as her skin reacted to the touch of something being placed in her grasp, and smiled gently as her fingers closed around it.
Leaning himself over, Ryan whispered as softly as he could into her ear.
"Merry Christmas, mom."
His lips gently pressed onto her head. She hummed, and stirred for just a second. That was enough warning for Ryan to know it was time to leave. If his mother woke up, it would be to an empty room with nothing but dogtags in her hand and a old Christmas card he had failed in giving her.
At least now, he figured she wouldn't throw this one out.
In fact, he would put his life on it.
The inside of the card was all scruffy and scribbly from his six year old handwriting saying:
To the best m0mmy ever. MeRRy Chrizmas
Fr0m RyAn.
Underneath, the part Ryan had just recently added.
I'll always be with you. I promise.
Merry Christmas, momzilla.
Love always, to the moon and back.
- R.
In the same moment that her eyes flickered for a second, Ryan was out of the room and outside; Damien already out there waiting.
He dropped from the middle roof and sighed gently, pulling his hood down.
"Harder than I thought it would be." Was all he commented with.
Damien nodded and pushed himself off the tree; since he had been leaning against it. "Mm, and you forgot the real reason we were there."
Instantly, Ryan kicked himself mentally. "Damnit!"
With a small scoff, Damien's hand dove into the inside pocket of his jacket. As he pulled it out, Ryan's interest peaked as he stalked closer to his friend. Damien wasn't a thief. Hell, he had owned a shop so he knew just how irritating it was when that happened. But what could have been good enough to cause this moral immortal to go against his ways?
"While you were in there saying your goodbyes, or whatever, I got to find this beauty on the wall... I think this ones perfect."
And it was perfect. The picture in his hand, still in it's frame, was of all three of them. Delilah, with her head tucked into Ryan's side, and Ryan's mother behind them; both hands on one of their shoulders each. Delilah had spent most of her life in Ryan's home, for she never really knew her mother. In a way, Ryan hoped she thought of his mom as hers. He also believed that was what his mom hoped for too.
Idly, Ryan's hand moved to his neck; clasping around the small pendant that dangled freely there. Delilah was always with him because of this necklace. What Damien had done with her ashes was something he would never have thought of in a thousand years. Getting them turned into some pendant that became their coven's crest. Their symbol of hope. Engraved on the back, was their family motto.
Until death.
Now, he would have a part of his mother with him too. Always.
Ryan looked up to his friend with gratefulness filled eyes, and sucked in a beath.
"Don't be getting sappy on me, Ry." Damien quickly shoved the picture into his chest. "That shits for Iris to deal with."
Ryan laughed, and for the first time, Damien noticed that it wasn't hollow. With nothing more to do, Damien rested his hand onto Ryan's shoulder and gave him a gentle squeeze.
"Lets to get to the airport now, yeah? I know there's just someone driving their parents insane to see you again."
Ryan's lips curved up into a large cheshire cat smile. He nodded, and took off into the night. Ryan didn't look back to the house he left behind, but if he had; he might've seen the window left open - and the curtains blowing freely out into the wind.
He didn't need to look back, for he believed he had finally gotten to do what most vampire's didn't. Say goodbye to the one person they loved from their human life. Now, he was at peace; and perhaps now he could finally move on.
—xXx—
I loved the snow. I still do.
Well, that was an understatement. I adored the snow; even in these circumstances. Despite the fact we were all stuck within this lodge, it is simply beautiful.
The only thing that could make it better... Would be if he were here.
The scribbling of the pen came to a stop at the sound of laughter. Automatically, Renesmee dropped the pen and stood from her writing in the cream colored diary, engraved with the words gold words 'Reny.' Her charmbracelet, now almost filled with the countless charms she'd collected over the years - despite the ones she'd gotten originally with it still being her favorite - rattled at her side as she moved from her room into the wooden lodges main living room.
The room was engulfed in Christmas themed wall decorations, and the tree; still awaiting to have the angel put on top. It was Christmas eve, but they still refused to put it on. For now, anyway.
Around the room was her family. Her mother and father, her uncles and aunts, her friends from La Push. Jacob was nuzzled up on the couch with Leah; laughing at the children at their feet's current face's covered in chocolate. But now, their faces weren't the only ones haven arrived at the holiday lodge.
Each of her house guests were now greeting the others. Ryan, Damien, Scott, Shay - who could now talk fluently. Seemed as though they had helped her get over her fear of speaking publicly - and their newest addition to the family Iris.
It came as a bit of a shock when Ryan had first introduced this girl as his chosen mate, for Renesmee was sure that Delilah had been his one and only. But then again, who was she to question him? He had been through hell and back. They all had. If he was finding the slightest bit of happiness with this girl, she was thankful for it. Ryan deserved to be happy, as did the rest of his coven.
And truthfully, Renesmee hadn't ever seen them so vibrant. Damien was closer to Shay than ever - now openly holding her hand, or draping his arm around her (Ryan had said before how he had a bit of a personal contact issue; but it seemed as if he had gotten over that for her) - Scott and Mary had become official mates; and were currently planning a wedding for their 10th year together. Only four more years to go. Renesmee was already counting down, for she was going to be a bridesmaid!
And Ryan? Well, he had always been a hard one to read after Delilah's departing - despite the fact he tried to keep the facade that he wasn't affected - but he smiled more now. He had his family, and now he had someone to share it with. Renesmee was sure that he loved Iris, but she wasn't entirely sure if he loved her as much as he had once loved another. Perhaps he would never love someone as much as he had loved her... But she couldn't be one to judge. Iris was a lovely girl; with her long flowing blonde hair and high cheekbones. The thing Renesmee liked most about her would be her personality. Iris wasn't the typical supermodel looking vampire; with the slim body and looks to kill - like aunt Rose - but she didn't let that stop her from owning a room. She was curvy, and she knew how to flaunt her best bits. Not to miss the fact she knew how to make most of them laugh.
Maybe that's why Ryan chose her? She had the ability to make him laugh; and take his mind off Delilah?
Before Renesmee had the chance to greet Ryan, however, he was being dragged off by a small hand into the next room to be shown a pair of shoes. All she got was a wave and a loud break of laughter.
With a smile, Renesmee turned her attention to the others. "I guess he'll be preoccupied for the rest of the night."
Damien chuckled and nodded his head. "Pretty much. Good thing though. It'll keep him outa' our hair."
"Mm," Scott nodded. "Let the adults have their fun, while the kids have theirs."
"Don't be mean... Ryan isn't a kid. He's just good with them." Mary scolded her fiance, with a light slap to his chest.
"He is good with them," Renesmee agreed with a quick nod.
"Although, still closer to daddy-dearest; eh?" Scott smirked. Renesmee giggled gently and looked over her shoulder to Leah and Jacob on the sofa still, not really paying attention to what was going on around them.
"Speaking of dearests," Damien pursed his lips; glancing around the little lodge living room. "Is your beloved-dearest not coming?"
Renesmee sighed gently. "I wouldn't get your hopes up. He's working still..."
A blink of silence occurred before Mary finally spoke up. "Well, I'm sure he would be here if he could."
"There's always next year." Scott agreed.
Renesmee couldn't help but hope that was the case. This wouldn't be the first holiday he had missed out on with the family. But, the life of a Volturi guard still took over most other duties; something she had to grow used to. She knew when she got into this relationship that she wouldn't have the typical 'together forever' kind of ending. Their lives would be separated between the Volturi and the ongoing duties he had to serve to his master. Although the offer still stood for him to be released of his status; Renesmee understood why he was hesitant on giving it up. The Volturi was all he knew, and probably would be all he would ever know.
She had no problem with the Volturi, however. If anything, they brought them closer together. Not to mention the fact that it extended their family on in a sense.
"So, when are we eating?" Scott frowned. Clearly, he wasn't looking forward to that part of the night.
"Actually," Renesmee turned to look over her shoulder. Edward and Rosalie stood at the fireplace, talking happily - for once - to one another. Edward caught her train of thought and nodded his head in her direction. "Now. Mom and Grandma are plating the stuff up already."
Scott and Ryan shared a look of disgust, while making a 'mmm' noise to one another. Shay laughed at his side, while Mary merely frowned; though she could see the distinctive linger of a smile in the corner of her lips. "Well, we'll just put our things away and be right there."
"I'll take Ryan's. Save him the hassle of getting away from his lil' follower."
Renesmee nodded in a grin towards Iris, while she stood there; watching them pick up their things and begin towards the bedrooms.
"Merry Christmas, by the way." Each of them smiled as they passed her.
"You too," she smiled as they passed her. One by one they disappeared into the corridors leading to the rooms.
Idly, Renesmee's feet moved to the window; where her hand outstretched to part the curtains and peer through into the blizzard.
Across the large canvas of white, the outside world was desolate and empty. The only signs of life was the trees being painted white, and the distant glow of lights miles down the mountain. A soft sigh escaped her lips. To date, she hadn't seen Alec for almost eight months; and already... It was beginning to feel like an eternity.
And she wasn't the only one missing him terribly.
"Renesmee," Edward's voice caught her attention. The now twenty five year old hybrid turned her head and smiled at the sight of her father departing from her aunt and making her way over. "Is everything alright?"
As if he really had to ask, but she humored him with a nod. "I'm fine, dad."
"You know," he rested a hand onto her shoulder gently. "If you need to talk, we are all here for you."
"Yup, we are." Jacob interrupted; though he didn't move from his seat next to Leah. Instead, he just raised his hand; as if to bring the attention upon himself. Beside him, Leah was leaning her head back to look at the father and daughter immortals and nodding in agreement.
"I'll keep that in mind if I ever need to talk," she laughed. "But honestly, I am fine."
It wasn't me you needed to worry about, she thought idly.
"She understands too." Edward simply said as the ventured out of the living room and into the kitchen; to help her Grandmother and mother with their cooking.
As she entered the small kitchen, she was pleasantly greeted by the sight of a cascading amount of food in dishes and bowls. One by one being moved from the island in the middle of the kitchen to the ensuite dining room. Without a word, Renesmee began to help.
The grand table - which her uncle Emmett had just recently built only hours before - was decorated perfectly. Candles, a tablecloth - which would most likely end up being ruined by the end of the night - and countless other little aspects that made it beautiful to the eyes. It too was covered in food, yet still managed to take more on.
Bella was putting the cutlery down, while Emmett was helping by placing crackers on the plates of each space. Each glass at the table had a crimson red liquid at the bottom. It wasn't half empty, nor was it half full. She guessed this was merely just to help wash whatever they were being forced to eat down.
They didn't have to eat the food, for she was well aware that it tasted like dirt to them, but they insisted. For two reasons, to help teach that it was possible to live on a diet of human food; but also to enjoy the true festivities of Christmas. What was Christmas without having a large feast, sitting together as a family?
In the other room, whoever it was in charge of the radio decided to be a bit of a smartass and play 'Baby it's cold outside.' Renesmee's bets were on it being Ryan, though she wasn't too sure these days. It could have been uncle Jasper - for his sense of humor often was twisted in this sort of way. Either way, you welcomed the gentle sounds of jazz, and couldn't help but grin at the echoing singing of children and Ryan's voices chanting along.
Yup, it was Ryan; she thought with a laugh. She wasn't the only one laughing, for even those in the same room helping with setting up the table were smiling along also.
The sound of laughter made it all the better, Renesmee decided. It didn't take long to set the table with the four of them setting it up and shipping the food to its places. With the last touches of Esme lighting the candles, Renesmee stood back and smiled contently at the table. Sure, it was odd having a Christmas dinner on Christmas eve - but there was a reason for that.
A few of them had to depart tomorrow night, leaving no time for them to have the family dinner. This way, they were all together; and she couldn't be happier.
"Alright!" Esme called loudly in her singsong voice. "Come and get it!"
One by one, the heads began to move into the dining room. Alice, who Renesmee was positive was in her room plotting something, glided in with Jasper. Rosalie and Emmett entered hand in hand, laughing at some joke Damien had said - who was walking in behind him with Shay. Carlisle, who had been in the other room on a call to the Denalis, since they were unable to make it but would try making an appearance tomorrow, entered with Edward discussing work.
Renesmee shot them a warning frown, which Edward caught and quickly chuckled; changing the subject entirely. Jacob and Leah tumbled in next; Leah looking around the floor for her son - but the squealing laughter from the other room set her searches to a hault. Mary and Scott entered with Iris and each of them took a seat; leaving four empty.
With everyone sitting down, the last heads to enter came in loudly. Ryan stomped his way into the room; with a pair of arms around his neck and laughter coming from his back; and a child sitting on his foot being brought along for the ride of his stomping.
"Fe, fi, foh, fum; I smell food and I want some!" He chanted in a 'monster' voice. All eyes were on him, yet he didn't seem to care.
"That's not it!" The child scowled with laughter. "It's smelling the blood of an Englishman!"
"Oh... Well, that's still food!" He chuckled.
"You're silly." Another sweeter voice giggled.
Ryan twisted himself, causing the arms wrapped around his neck to swing; letting the posture of a small girl to slide around and land perfectly onto his hip. He crouched down and picked the other child up; resting him onto his other.
Slowly, he began to carry them around the table to their seats.
Of course Leah was a little wary with Ryan around the children, but that was only natural. She was a shapeshifter, and so would her offspring be one day. But she was easing at him being around them as each year went by. He was a natural with kids, surprisingly. Probably down to how he was a child at heart.
"I might be silly, but I'm a hungry silly person," he rested the little boy down first. "And unless you don't eat your dinner all up, I will." He said while placing the small girl down into her seat beside the boy.
"You wouldn't eat our food," the little girl huffed. "Food tastes yucky to you."
"I wouldn't be too sure on that, kid." Scott chuckled. Both sets of eyes turned to him. "Ryan eats like a pig."
"Really?" the boy blinked wide eyed. His dark brown eyes sparkling in the candle light.
"Really." Damien nodded. "Last time, he ate the whole Turkey by himself on thanksgiving."
The children gasped and quickly reached forward to take their forks.
The table emitted into laughter, while Ryan tucked himself down in beside the kids. Still, Renesmee stared at the empty seat beside her in sorrow. It wasn't his fault he wasn't here... There was always that chance he wouldn't make it.
A small nudge under the table to her foot caused her to look up to Ryan giving her a gentle wink. As if on cue, Renesmee blushed endlessly.
"Well, what're we waiting for huh? Lets dig in." Ryan eventually took the reins and leant forward; beginning to take his share.
And just like that, with the ringing of the radio playing Christmas tunes in the back; and the ongoing chatter and laughter between family and friends, the sharing of food and hesitance in eating, the sipping of the 'wine' - though, it was merely a few blood bags Carlisle had taken from the hospital for those who had red eyes, and each of the Cullen's favorite animal to feed on's blood - from the glasses, everything was in full swing.
Renesmee sat and chewed while listening to Ryan tell yet another story of their travels, having his coven have an input here and there.
"You know, it's been six years and you still haven't told us how the Tokyo trip went."
Ryan cut off from his chatter on their last North pole trip and grinned widely. In his view, that had been the best trip of his life. As if on order, Renesmee watched as his hand went up and caressed the pendant around his neck.
"Well, first things first..."
As he trailed on about their amazing adventure in the anime capital of the world, alongside Renesmee; her family listened intently also. As did Iris, who hadn't heard of this story either. Renesmee presumed she knew about Delilah, for Ryan didn't miss to cut out bits like 'she woulda' loved this' or 'would have definitely been her favorite part.' Iris was a brave woman, Renesmee realized. Being able to sit back and listen to her 'mate' go on about a recently deceased love of his life... And actually smile about it? Then again... Losing Delilah had made Ryan who he was today.
And although it would have been great to have Delilah there, at this table with them - and they all probably would give anything to have her alive - none of them would change a thing. Peace was finally restored, and things were slowly moving back into the basis of how it was supposed to be.
Besides, the love that he lost with watching Delilah died, was replaced by the adoration he received from the two children sitting at his side; grinning intently as they listened to him tell them all about the 'whacky and wonderful' characters he had met.
Idly, Renesmee watched and listened as Leah leaned over to wipe the face of the little boy; who had gravy dripping from his chin. Oddly, she realized she must've not been paying the best of attention as Ryan's conversation tuned back in and revealed why he had two straws sticking out of his mouth.
"And then this huge asssss, can be monster came out of nowhere;" he quickly saved himself from cursing in front of them; gaining a small chuckle from most of the immortals at the table. Even Renesmee found herself laughing at his quick thinking.
"With tusks coming out of his mouth like this!" He pointed to his teeth straws. "And fat as can be! Grunting like a pig."
The little girl at his side rolled her eyes. "It was a walrus. They're pretty common in those parts, uncle Ryan."
As always, Renesmee's heart melted hearing those words coming from the child. Ryan chuckled and removed the straws. "Well, aren't you the little smarty-pants."
She grinned a prideful smile. "Yup."
"Can thinka' someone else who's a smarty pants, eh," he winked playfully. "But if a smarty-pants doesn't eat her veggies... She's not getting to open the present we got her."
The little boy let out a large gruff laugh, his mouth full of chicken. "Ha!"
"Don't know what you're laughing at kid, you won't be getting yours either."
Both children's faces fell, and before any of them could blink; both kids were shovelling the vegetables into their mouths. Renesmee, having been silent for most of this time, took a look around the table at the half-eaten plates of her family and friends. Inwardly, she was apologizing for them going through that; knowing it probably brought them some amount of distaste, but they were all grinning and happily watching the kids finish off their meals.
"So," Edward said, stealing the attention from the two miniature pigs at the table, "Should we leave dessert for now?"
A room full of agreements came as she children pushed their plates away.
"Kids," Renesmee finally spoke up. "D'you want some ice-cream?"
Oddly, both shook their head simultaneously.
"Too stuffed, aunt Reny." The little boy wiped his face with the back of his hand. "Later though! After story time!"
Ah, yes... Story time. The mere mention of it caused the little girl to shriek in glee.
"Can we hear the usual one again?" She pleaded, her large brown eyes staring into Renesmee's. "Pleeease?"
Giving a sweet laugh, she nodded her head. "Fine; but only once. Then I'm sure someone wants to play the piano for us... Who's gonna be singing this year?"
"... I am." The little girl crossed her arms. "Ethan did it last year."
"Hey, not everyone wants to hear you scream Christmas songs all the time. Besides, mommy let me listen to some good stuff."
Renesmee glanced up towards Leah, who was silently laughing with Jacob's hand in hers, resting happily on her lap. Slowly, Leah mouthed the words 'Beatles' to her. Well, at least she was introducing him to the classics, hm?
"Well, it's my year. So neeh." The noise came from her sticking her tongue out at Ethan.
"Alright kids, why don't we go set up the living room while the adults clear up; huh?" Bella said, taking hold of Edward's hand and pulling him to her feet. Renesmee couldn't help but roll her eyes at them, for they had been adults longer than what she had ever been.
Both kids jumped out of their seats with the help of Ryan pulling them out and ran off after Edward and Bella. There was some amount of movement going on in there, but no one really paid attention to the shuffling of furniture. Instead, each and everyone of the immortals and shapeshifters at the table began to collect up their plates and help move them into the kitchen. Neatly stacking them up to be washed before the night was through.
Eventually though, Alice wasn't able to handle the mess - OCD, much? - and ordered Jasper to come help; which resulted in him roping Emmett into helping him also. Eventually, while the three of them were finishing up in the kitchen, everyone else sat in the living room, glasses in hand of their selected drink and waiting.
Renesmee sat herself down onto the floor, both children either side of her and blinking up at her with their large doe like eyes.
"Well, seeing as you've heard this story ten times before... Where would you like me to start?" She asked while leaning herself back onto the sofa at her back.
Both kids pursed their lips, and came stumped for an answer.
"I think you should start at the shopping trip, with the escalator incident."
Renesmee glanced up to her father who had spoken, sitting soundly beside his wife and mother. Carlisle was standing there, or more so leaning against the arm of the chair; with his hand on his wife's shoulder.
"That's the funny bit!" Ethan chanted with a laugh. "Start there."
Renesmee glanced towards the little girl and arched an eyebrow. "Would you like me to start there?"
She nodded contently and nuzzled into her side.
"Alright. Well, that day started out like any other... I was excited about being invited out with Nathan and his friends that I roped Alec into coming shopping..."
As the story began mid point, Renesmee got lost in her own little world of memories. All seeming to flash before her eyes as she remembered the very beginning of their on-off-on relationship. The ups, and the downs, and the completely hilarious moments, and the severely emotional ones.
Despite the lows being low, she wouldn't change them; for they were the beauty that made it what it was to this day. It was hard to think, eight years ago she had met Alec... When she herself had been a child at heart. Immature and inexperienced with the world.
With each word that parted her mouth on their tale, she was able to sit and watch it replay in her mind. She could still hear all the conversations, the laughter, the yelling, the sobs, she could still see the odd looks, the smiles and the frowns...
Renesmee knew she was a lucky girl. She had a great start in life, with parents that loved her, with a family that adored her... Friends that would die for her. She had made relationships that she could never compare to any other in a lifetime. She had met some amazing people, and some not so amazing people. She'd been in situations that could leave a human immobile by happiness and fear, and the fact she was able to say it was a tale that would go on until the end of time, Renesmee viewed that as the luckiest thing ever.
But above all that, she had managed to find the one she was supposed to be with forever. Or more or less, he had found her. Or... Barged into her life without an invitation. He was ordered to watch over her, observe her lifestyle; and in doing so... He changed her completely. He made her a better person, and he liked to say she did the same for him.
Alec was without a doubt... One of the best things she had ever found - of forced upon - in her life. She now understood what it felt like for her parents, when they'd stare at each other for no reason. Because if she could, when she could, she did the same to Alec.
And she knew he did the same to her, even when he didn't know she knew. Often when she lay 'asleep' beside him, and he'd brush her hair out of her face while just... Gazing at her.
It was odd, how a full two years of life could be summarized within the space of half and hour. How the happiest moments of her life could go on... But the stories seemed shot and didn't give the true thing justice. Either way, they seemed content with it. Up until...
"And then he said, 'perhaps, I may have the privilege of asking you to one day become my wife. Of course, I would need to ask your father first; but I wish to hear your answer if I were to get his blessing...'"
Ethan's eyes rolled with the cheesy stuff, but that was to be expected. He was still in the phase where he believed girls to have cooties. The exception for him, however, seemed to be the little girl at Renesmee's side; staring up at her with large sparkling eyes. Still listening intently at this bitter-sweet love story.
"I was so surprised, but I was so happy... But, I'd always liked teasing him; so I said "If you get his blessing, I guess I'd have no choice but in agreeing after you go through all that trouble."
In the best way she could, she intimidated the Volturi guard members deep voice. "Good, for I've already received it."
Renesmee watched as the little girls eyes widened, just as hers once had at the same moment. "You... You have?"
"Mm. Leah said some words to me that made me realize... I was foolish for letting you go. Now, I just want to make sure you can never run from me again. Besides, wherever you run; Demetri will find you." Again, she made the best intimidation of Alec as she could. Across the room, small laughter emitted at the final words, while smiles broke out across all their faces.
"And you know what I told him after that?" She asked, looking directly into the eyes of the little girl.
She shook her head, her lips parting halfly and a small gentle voice whispering out. "What did you say?"
"Well, I laughed- just like everyone else is here; and fell into his arms where he held me so tightly," as she said this, she wrapped her arms around the little girl and pulled her close. "And I said as clear as day, for the first time since we had our breakup... "I love you, Alec of the Volturi.""
At her other side, Ethan made a 'ew' noise; while the little girl in Renesmee's eyes sparkled with amazement. "Do you think I will find someone to have always and forever with?"
Renesmee smiled gently and leant forward; pressing a kiss onto the childs head. "Of course, sweetie. He's out there waiting for you... Hey, he could be in this very room..." She winked playfully and turned her eyes to Ethan, nibbling at his fingernail.
"Ew." Was all the young girl replied with; causing laughter to emit out of the room.
"I think this is a perfect time to start the songs," Esme smiled, patting Edward on the shoulder. He nodded and handed his glass to Bella as he stood. Rosalie, who he'd nodded as as he past to make his way to the piano, stood up and turned the lights down. Leaving the lodge living room in a warm glow of the fire and candles.
To begin with, Edward began with his usual sing-songy Christmas carols for the children, who automatically began chanting along with childhood glee. Even so, Ethan pulled the much shorter girl up to her feet and began to spin her around while singing.
She had no doubt in her mind that her father would would more than likely be tired if he were human, after playing songs for the good part of an hour. Eventually, it moved into full swing as the children coaxed some of the adults up into dancing with them; introducing that of Damien and Ryan pairing off and trying to show them the waltz - yeah... That had Renesmee in stitches. Eventually, after the hype had died down and the minutes began to tick closer to midnight; and the kids began to become a little tired eyed looking, Edward switched the tune into softer sounding songs; until he came to one that had the little girl dart up.
"I want to sing this one!"
Edward automatically came to a hault. At first, he looked at her; then up to Renesmee then to the clock.
"I don't see how one more song could hurt... Bring us into Christmas day, DJ." Carlisle chuckled as he sat himself down beside his wife. She didn't even begin to start until everyone of them were seated in their couples. Leah with Jacob, and Ethan sitting in the middle of them; desperately trying to keep his eyes open. Scott with Mary, Ryan with Iris, Damien with Shay, Jasper and Alice, Rosalie and Emmett... The only ones who didn't have their pairs were her mother, and herself.
They were content with sitting together, however.
Silence loomed over the room until a small nod of the head was giving to Edward, and he began to softly play the tune.
"Have yourself a merry little Christmas, let your heart be light; from now on our troubles will be out of sight." The gentle voice of the small girl chimed, all eyes directly on her. Renesmee was reminded of the days that used to be her up there... Singing along with her father playing music. Instead, now she was with the rest of the family; watching at the sweet scenery before her. As everyone relaxed, and watched, and smiled...
What made Renesmee smile even more, however; was the single candle burning in the middle of the piano, with a picture framed right beside it. In the picture was Delilah, Ryan and some other woman who looked awfully like him.
She wasn't going to question it, for he had his reasons. Besides, it wasn't as if any of them minded in the slightest. They were all family here, as was those in the photograph.
"Have yourself a merry little christmas, make the Yule-tide gay. From now on, our troubles will be miles away. Here we are as in olden days, happy golden days of yore..."
As if this child was on a stage, she looked across each of them; grinning happily to all eyes on her.
"Faithful friends who are dear to us, father near to us once more. Through the years, we all will be together... If the fates allow. Hang a shining star upon the highest boughhhh."
Renesmee gave a little laugh at the long awaited high note she evidently wanted to perform. In all do respect, she was able to hit it quite well. Sighing in content as she leaned her head against her mothers shoulders, she listened to the last verse of the song.
"And have yourself a merry little Christmas... DADDY!"
Renesmee's eyes darted open at the loud eruption from the little girl, and quickly turned her head to where she was staring.
There, standing in the doorway; hair coated and wet in the snowflakes gathered in the messy locks of brown, dressed in his black uniform with the Volturi necklace shining vibrantly in the middle of his chest; was Alec.
His lips parted, and his arms opened wide; giving a clear invitation. She didn't take a moment to hesitate in running to her fathers arms. He didn't hesitate in catching her and spinning her on the spot; firmly holding onto his most prized possession.
"You made it, daddy!" The little girl cried in happiness.
"You didn't think I'd miss giving my princess a present now, did you?" he chuckled, keeping her in his arms while stroking her hair out of her face. "My, you're getting more beautiful as time goes by."
She blushed furiously and giggled. Her eyes only seemed to widen more however as three more figures entered the room.
"Uncle Felix! Uncle Demi!" Ah yes, she still had that obsession. Although her shrinking excitement had been quite clear in seeing those two; it didn't compare to it when the last figure entered.
"Auntie Jane!"
"Would you mind letting my niece down so I might give her a hug, brother?" Jane's stern voice sounded and Renesmee was able to see the figure of Jane, hair down at her shoulders; still in uniform as she entered. She couldn't move... No matter how much she wanted too.
Alec chuckled and pressed a kiss onto his daughter's forehead before he let her back down, allowing her to run to Jane and receive a large hug.
"How's my favorite little niece doing?" Jane smiled as she held her on her hip.
"I'm your only niece," a high pitched laughter echoed. By this point, Renesmee had zoned out as she watched her father shaking Alec's hand, and being greeted by the others.
It wasn't until his eyes landed on her that she felt she could move again, and it was only to spring on him. Her arms wrapped themselves around his neck while her head buried into his cold shoulder. Soft sobs of happiness escaped her as she held tightly onto her beloved.
"This wasn't the welcome I was expecting, Reny." Alec chuckled gently as he stroked her hair.
Renesmee laughed and lifted her head to look at him. "A little warning to you coming might have been nice, mister."
Alec flashed her one of his breathtaking smiles. "Ah, but then I wouldn't have been able to get this reaction."
"Sadistic prick," she whispered with a laugh. Alec smirked; giving a gentle 'mm' noise as he leant himself forward, allowing his lips to finally meet hers yet again.
Eight whole months she had gone without him totally went out the window. She was now back in the arms of the man she adored, her family was finally complete with him here. And although their time was limited, as it always was, she savored the moment with him.
In the back, she could hear talk of 'Grandpa Aro' apologizing for not being able to make it. Yeah, it had been near enough five years of her calling him that; and Renesmee still wasn't so used to it.
Alec finally pulled away, allowing Renesmee to breathe; though a small laugh left his lips on seeing Ethan, sitting with his face screwed up and hiding into his mothers side. Above him, however; Emmett thought it to be funny to hold a small gathering of mistletoe.
Well, it was only natural to obey the orders. Again, he pressed a gentle kiss onto Renesmee's lips. A small peck, for that was all that was needed for the time being.
From Jane's arm, the high pitched voice of Alec's daughter chimed again. How he had missed the sound of her voice chanting the words he never thought would be said to him. There was once a time he believed there would be nothing he could love more than the Volturi, and then along came Renesmee. Then, there was that belief that he could never love something or someone as much as she. Then came the beautiful existence of his daughter, the rare little being holding her arms out for her father. He would never forget the first time he held her in his arms. How small and fragile she had been, looking up to him in pure innocence. Alec had always been protective over what was his, but this child was the fuel of his existence. Nothing, or anyone would ever harm her. If they even dare tried, they would have him to deal with. Not to mention the whole of the Volturi - for each and every member adored this little girl more than immortality itself.
"Daddy," she held out her arms. With a departing kiss to Renesmee's head, Alec moved forward and took the child from Jane's arms. "Can we put the star on now?"
Alec's crimson eyes shifted towards the tree and examined it. Everything was in place, besides the start at the top. "Why isn't it on already?"
Isabella answered. "She wouldn't let us until you came."
Alec frowned and turned his eyes to his daughter. "You didn't know I was coming?"
"She didn't give up hope." Renesmee smiled as she stepped forward. Alec wrapped his other arm around her, while the other held their daughter to him; propped up on his hip.
"Such a little ball of sunshine." He chuckled, leaning forward and kissing her forehead. A fluorescent blush formed its way across the child's face as she held on tightly to her father.
From the corner of his eye, Alec was able to see Edward smiling towards the group. Although Alec was older than him, he was finally experiencing what it was like to be a Cullen. He knew what it felt like for Edward, seeing Renesmee all grown up. He understood the love he felt for his daughter, and he would soon know the pain of one day having to let her go. It would be hard, but Edward knew Alec would handle it. Hopefully with a little more grace than what Edward had. If his daughter ended up with someone half the man he now saw Alec as, everything would be fine.
"Well, let's get this damned star up, ae?" Ryan huffed, emerging from a door with the star in his hand.
"Language!" A number of scolds came from around the room, while the children laughed furiously. He gave a sheepish chuckle and handed the star over to Alec. Taking it within his hands, he glanced to his daughter.
Lifting her up onto his shoulders, Alec made his way closer to the tree. "Can you reach?"
"Y-yeah... There!" The strained voice of the stretching child said, until finally she relaxed back and Alec was able to step back. From the side of the tree, Emmett flicked a switch, causing the tree to burst into life. Holding happily onto each foot of his daughter as he looked at the tree, Alec couldn't contain the feeling of content. This is what his life was supposed to be like...
All the wrong that have ever happened to him, all the foul things that had occurred was for this. This peace of heaven, just for him. Who knew that the family Aro once gathered the Volturi up for to slaughter was eventually to become his extended family? That the man he despised the most was to become his father-in-law, and grandfather to his child?
They accepted him in as if he belonged there, and slowly... Alec came to feel as though he did. Even Jane, she was easing into it. Currently, she was standing beside Alice and Isabella; exchanging the information there was 'drinks' in the kitchen. Trust them to run off for a bit of girl talk, hm?
"Something the matter, daddy?"
Alec blinked as he helped the girl climb down from his shoulders.
"No. Everything is... Perfect. Which reminds me," Alec held onto her tightly while his free hand dove into his pocket. Producing a small package wrapped up in silver wrapping paper with a clear glistening bow.
She quickly took hold of the package, while his hand dove back into his pocket and pulled out another, exactly the same as before.
"You too, Ethan."
The dark haired boy's head perked up from his mother with excitement in his eyes. Alec quickly tossed it over, to which the boy caught with ease.
"What do you say, Ethan?" Leah frowned as her son, while Jacob chuckled.
"Thanks, uncle Alec."
That name was something that Alec doubted he'd ever get used too. Although there was no marriage nor blood relation between him and the Blacks, Jacob was still Renesmee's imprinter - and therefore her protector. As Renesmee had described it as, Jacob was like her big brother. Therefore, in some sense, it was only natural for their offspring to call him uncle, and Renesmee aunt.
"No problem, kid." Alec nodded, while his eyes flicked to his daughter; shaking her present beside her ear.
"Can we open them now?" Ethan asked, looking to his mother with pleading dark eyes.
"You have to wait until morn-" Leah went to speak, though Alec cut in.
"Ah, this one won't hurt. Just think of it as a little pre-present before Santa comes, hm?"
Leah frowned playfully towards Alec, while Ethan continued to look at his mother with pleading eyes. "Fine, but only this one."
The kids burst into cheers and hastily began to rip the presents open.
In sync, both children gasped.
"Look mom!" Ethan ushered, pushing the open box into his mothers face. "Look!"
Leah sat herself forward and took the box from his hands, frowning at the thing inside. With two fingers, she pulled out string with a small pendant. "What is it?"
"It's what uncle Alec and I talked about! It's a real great white sharks tooth! And look, there's a Volturi symbol just above it!"
"Well, would you look at that..." Leah chuckled while the boy snatched it off her.
"Thank's uncle Alec! This is the best!" He ran forward and clasped onto his leg, while Alec kept a firm grip onto his daughter, who was still staring in amazement down to her own gift. Ethan let go after a few seconds, then raced out of the room to show Ryan.
"What about you, sweetie?" Renesmee asked, looking to the girl in Alec's arms.
"Look," she whispered, pulling the silver chain out. "Just like daddies... And yours."
Renesmee's breath hauled in pure amazement before the piece of Stirling silver before her. On the devine chain, were the two crests for both Coven's in which this child was linked too. The vivid 'V' from Alec, and the Cullen crest, both linked together by the one hooped link.
"Now, she will have a bit of both of us, wherever we may be" Alec was looking at Renesmee as he spoke. "A bit of me, for when I am away. She'll be linked, just as we are. As our families are."
Renesmee, who hadn't left his side, grinned and leaned into him; her head snuggling perfectly into his shoulder; while their daughter did the same the other side after placing the necklace around her. This was his life now, and no one was going to take it from him.
For the next hour, it consisted of Alec sitting on the sofa with Renesmee beside him; and their daughter sitting happily on his knee; hugging tightly into her father as she fought of sleep. The chatter was light on why they had wanted to get here sooner, but the mission had gone on a little longer than necessary.
Eventually, while the conversation was in full swing; Alec decided to pick his daughter up and carry her to the corridors of rooms. Judging by it, he was following the scent of his daughter to find the room she was staying in. Renesmee waited for a number of seconds before she stood up, bidding a small 'excuse me' to Jane, who was mid conversation on the current gossip from Volterra; which ultimately turned out to be the reason as to why Aro wasn't here also.
Silently, Renesmee creeped along the corridor until she came to a stop outside the room door Alec and his daughter were in. She could peak in enough to see him sitting at the edge of her bed; ducking his head to fit under the bunk - which Ethan was soundly asleep in.
Currently, Alec was tucking her in.
"Do you have to go away again, Daddy?" she whispered gently.
Alec sighed. "Not as quickly as I did last time. That is actually Grandpa Aro's gift to you... He's given me, aunt Jane, and uncle Demetri and Felix some time off.."
From the crack she was peering in, she could see her grinning happily up at him.
"You shut your eyes and get some sleep. I'll be here in the morning, and we can open the rest of your presents."
"Santa's coming..." She whispered.
Alec chuckled gently as he leant forward and pressed a kiss onto her head. "He is. Night, night darling."
"I love you, daddy." Renesmee could hear it in her voice, she was drifting off.
Alec brushed his hand over her cheek one final time and smiled. "I love you too, Delilah-Jane."
Around twenty odd seconds later, Alec exited the room to find Renesmee standing with her arms crossed; leaning against the wall of the lodge corridor. Silently, he closed the door before he gave Renesmee his full attention.
"You get her to sleep so easily."
Alec smirked and shrugged. "It's probably my voice... So soothing and calm."
"Mm, I'm not arguing there. Your voice puts me to sleep sometimes too."
Alec gasped, faking being offended as he stepped forward and pressed his lips to hers a little rougher than before. Sparks emitted throughout her body, causing her nerve endings to come to life and plead for him. Thankfully, she had remembered to pack condoms. After all, as much as she loved children - she did not want another one just yet. It was a miracle Delilah-Jane had come into their life, since she was positive children were never on the cards for her due to the immortality thing.
But, it turns out imprinting comes to those who would be best at continuing the shapeshifter gene. Although finding that out made her feel a little creeped out, since Jacob had imprinted on her, she also learnt that it was highly rare for a hybrid to give birth. Which literally made their little DJ a miracle.
Renesmee had to pull back for air, but kept her head resting against his. She was about to ask what that was for, when Alec answered for her.
"Merry Christmas, Reny."
And with that, Renesmee was positive this was going to be the best Christmas ever.
A/N:
You know, when I updated the last chapter; it didn't feel like the end. Perhaps it was because I knew I still had this to write, but now it's just dawning on me that this truly is it... The two and a half years of plot planning, writing and re-writing chapters for you guys have finished; and I just... I don't know what I'm going to do now (other than write another Reneslec fic.)
First of all, I just want to say thank you so much for the support and encouragement throughout this time. I know I've said in the past that if it wasn't for you guys, I probably wouldn't have continued this; but I can't express just how true that statement is. You guys were truly amazing, and I will never forget all the kind comments and criticism. I sat with a friend, KatasaurRAWR, and talked things over about this story. One of the thing that they said to me struck me slightly, and made me realize something. As of this epilogue, Renesmee is twenty four/twenty five.
We started this journey when she was only sixteen, and throughout that time we have saw her grow as a person. Not only that, we have saw Alec change from this unapproachable, scary ass Volturi guard... To a father. Sure, he still has the hints of terrifying, but what father isn't scary?
What struck me with this, was the fact I never intended to make this a three-parter. I only ever planned on making it a simple single set story, with no intentions of a sequel; never mind making it a trilogy, but you guys made me love writing this for you to the point where I couldn't stop and I am truthfully saddened to see it end. Destiny, fate and Kismet became a big part of my life to the point where I wheeled my schedule around writing chapters, but not only that... You became a big part of my life too. I loved reading every single review and message from you guys. Most made me smile, laugh and some cry (with laughter, most of the time.)
You guys became my family, and I will never forget that. Each and every single one of you hold a special place within my heart.
Now, I could probably go on forever about how grateful I am for everything you guys have done for me; but I feel I shouldn't bore you any more than what I have.
So, I'll let you go with this.
Take it easy, guys. This has been a fun ride.
Oh, and I hope you all have a merry Christmas, and a happy Reneslec new year.
I love you all.
-CorruptedHeart.