Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.
Norman Vincent Peale
EDWARD'S POVIt was snowing when Bella and I walked out of the Keep. The path was blanketed fresh white snow. No one, not even an animal, had disturbed the new snowfall.
Bella inhaled the cold air, pulling her cloak further around her. When she had come back into the antechamber, her eyes were dull, lacking the happy shine they wore when we arrived yesterday.
"I love it here," she said, reaching for my hand.
Graciously, I accepted hers and pulled in through my arm as we walked down a path.
"And I wish I could spend more than a few weeks a year here."
When we were close to the stables, she slowed before coming to a stop and turned toward me.
"Edward, what did you mean you were talking to Alice when you said, 'You didn't see what happened?'" she asked.
My chin fell to my chest. What was I going to tell Bella? "She was asking me how your meeting with the council went," I answered. "I didn't know how to answer her question."
"I see," she remarked.
I didn't think she understood what I was saying. She hadn't paused long enough for me to reply.
"And you believe that things didn't go my way," she said with a small smile as she tried to hold in a laugh.
Maybe she did, and I was even more confused than after what happened in the council room.
"Didn't they?" I asked.
"Edward, you couldn't be further from the truth. Didn't you see what happened?"
I took a deep breath, not that I needed it, and looked away.
"Yes," I answered. "One of the council members burned two pieces of cloth after untying them. I didn't see the symbolism in the action."
Glancing back at her a moment, I saw she was holding her sides and her lips between her teeth, trying hard not to laugh. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly.
"It meant the contract, the promise of marriage, was terminated. I can date anyone I want now, and the council can't interfere. That's all that I wanted."
My eyes snapped to hers as she spoke. There was humor dancing in her eyes.
"Why didn't you ask my grandfather what had happened? He would have told you," she said.
Why hadn't I?
"I didn't think to ask," I said, running a rough hand down my face. I wasn't used to asking questions, due to my mind-reading ability, but with the language barrier… I had better learn how and fast.
BELLA'S POVI reached up and touched Edward's face. "Anytime you don't understand what's going on, just ask. My grandfather or I will explain whatever it is to you," I said, caressing his face. "I don't want to see you confused again. Now, we had best get back inside, the Christmas Eve Ball is tonight."
"Is there anything I should know about it?" he asked, giving me his crooked smile.
My heart skipped a beat before we turned to head back. I thought about his question, there was so much he needed to know.
"Well, it's a formal dance. I'll have to dance with my grandfather, a few dignitaries, and with you at the beginning."
I blushed at that admission, looking over at Edward.
"After that I typically catch up with friends."
"Sounds like fun," he said.
As soon as we neared the door Edward and I left through, it flew open.
"Thaur ye be, lass. We best be startin' tae gie ye ready fur thes eve."
"Let the fun begin," I said over my shoulder as my lady's maid dragged me into the Keep.
EDWARD'S POVWhenever Alice offered to give Bella a makeover, Bella said no. I understood why now. Bella had a look of dread in her eyes. It was like she was saying "put me out of my misery" with that look. Pity and sympathy well up inside me, and I wish I could help her.
"See you later," I yelled as she disappeared inside the Keep.
Digging out my phone, I decided to call Alice back and apologize for sort of lashing out at her
"Hello, Alice," I said as soon as someone picked up. "Sorry about earlier. I was confused."
"That's good to know, bro," Jasper said. "What were you confused about?"
"Where's Alice?" I asked.
"Out hunting, I stayed back in case you called again. So, what were you confused about?" he asked.
I related to Jasper the happenings of the morning. "I misunderstood when Bella collapsed against me. I had thought that things hadn't gone her way. It wasn't like that at all."
"I would have thought the same," he remarked. "Do you want Alice to call you later?"
"No. Tell her what I told you and she should be happy. I need to get changed for tonight," he said.
"Edward, you know that wasn't very nice earlier," Alice said.
Had I really been on the phone that long, or did she go on a short hunt?
"Alice, I'm so sorry about that. Bella had walked into the room, and I wasn't sure how much she had heard. Jasper knows the details. I'd tell you if I didn't need to meet Bella soon."
I ran a hand through my hair.
"And thanks for making me bring the tuxedo—it will come in handy tonight." I was in the my room and looked over at where my tuxedo hung.
"You should never doubt me, but I didn't see the Ball. Bella told me about it, but I'm a little miffed she wouldn't let me help her pick out a dress for tonight," she said. "Be sure to take pictures. I want to see what she wore."
I chuckled. "I'm sure you do, and she's has a camera. Although, I doubt that will be a problem. There might be news media here tonight."
"Give Bella our love tomorrow. Oh, her gifts from the rest of the family are in your bag."
"I found them. I thought the plan was to give them to her when we got back?"
"What you have are little tokens. We have more for her here."
"Alice," I groaned. "I hope you didn't go overboard. Bella doesn't like people spending money on her."
"She'll just have to get over it. Now, change and have fun. Talk to you later."
I looked at my phone shocked. Alice actually said bye this time.
Twenty minutes before I needed to meet Bella, a knock came at my door. Opening it, I was greeted by Malcolm dressed to the nines in formal clan regalia.
"Can we talk?" he asked.
"Uh, sure," I said, moving aside and letting him enter while running my hand through my hair as I did so.
"You have nothing to be nervous about," he said. "Did Isabella explain what would happen tonight?"
"A little. She's expected to dance with you, some dignitaries, and me. Not much else," I answered.
"What else did she say?" he asked.
He looked as nervous as I felt.
"After she has fulfilled her duties, she said that she usually catches up with friends."
He threw back his head and laughed.
"She told you that, did she? I wish that was true. She usually disappears until just before the end. I don't know where she goes."
"Why would she tell me that's she did if she doesn't?" I asked.
"I wish I knew, lad. Maybe it has something to do with you. It's my hope since you're her escort she won't disappear."
What now?
"Why you are telling me this?" I asked, thoroughly confused.
He shrugged. His thoughts revealed nothing.
"I best go so you finishing getting ready."
"Sir," I started and he turned.
"None that sir nonsense, it is Malcolm, lad."
"Okay, Malcolm,"—I said, retrieving something from my bag—"could you see that this is delivered to Bella. I thought she might want to wear it this evening."
I handed him the black velvet box containing the anklet that was once my mother's.
"May I," he inquired, and I nodded. After lifting the lid, he gave a low whistle. "It's lovely, Edward. Why are you asking me to deliver it?"
"I don't think she'll accept from me," I said, making sure my voice held a tone of sadness.
"I'll give it to her personally." He gave a smile. "And don't worry about it being returned to you," he said, opening the door.
After getting out the silk white rose Alice had also insisted I take, I changed. A matching rose was already pinned to my jacket. Once dressed, I exited the room went to the head of the stairs to wait for Bella. I leaned against the railing near to the stair like last evening a little unsure if Bella wanted me to escort her into the Great Hall or not, like Malcolm indicated was expected of me.
BELLA'S POVOne of the maids helping me get ready answered the door when someone knocked. I turned my head toward the door, and the hair dresser forced my head forward again.
"None of that, lassies, go back to helping my granddaughter," Grandfather said with a laugh when the maids dipped into curtsies.
I was already dressed in the gown Ian had designed for me. It was a lovely midnight blue strapless number that was decorated with white diamonds. There was a gold wrap and elbow gloves to go with it. I would wear white ballet shoes, though none would see them, encompassing the clan colors.
"As always, Isabella, you look exquisite."
I saw myself blush through the mirror.
"Thank you, Grandfather. What's that?" I asked, indicating the box in his hands.
"A gift from Edward," he said, held it to me once the last hairpin was secured. "He thought you would like to wear it tonight."
Accepting the box, I opened it. When I saw the heart-shaped, diamond-encrusted anklet, I gasped.
"Take it back to him," I said, trying to hand the box back.
"My job is done."
He raised his right hand when I made to protest again.
"If you want don't want it, you gave it back. But if I were you, I would wear it if only for the night."
I leaned back in my chair. There was still my tiara, but it could wait. I would be having a talk with Edward later. I had told Edward not to get me anything, but Grandfather had a point. I could wear it for the night and return it to Edward later.
"Help me with it," I said, looking over at Grandfather.
"Now that's my lass," he said, standing after putting the anklet on my left ankle. "Will Edward be escorting you down?"
I grimaced. "I didn't ask him."
Grandfather laughed. "I'll bet he'll be waiting for you when you're ready. The guests soon will be arriving soon, but take your time. I'm the host tonight. Your only job is to have fun."
He started for the door, but turned back.
"Oh, you'll be dancing with Edward first and then me. You don't have to do more than that," he added before I could say a word.
"I don't want to shrug off my responsibilities as Grandmother's heir," I said.
"You have too big of a heart, lass—too big for your own good. Nobody will mind." He left me to finish getting ready.
Five minutes later, I found Edward leaning against the upper railing. He smiled, not taking his eyes off of me. Straightening, he walked toward me and handed me a white rose.
EDWARD'S POVI twirled the rose between my thumb and forefinger. Bella didn't keep me waiting long, and I couldn't take my eyes off of her as she approached. She was glowing and returned my smile.
"You look beautiful, Bella. Shall we?" I asked, offering her my arm after she accepted the rose.
She laid her hand on my forearm, and we descended the stairs. Soft music was playing as we approached the Great Hall. When we entered, many heads turned our way with astonished looks on their faces, and then the whispering began.
"That's not Garret or Charlie."
"Didn't you hear? The council terminated the arrangement this morning."
"I wonder why?"
"Some indiscretion on Garret's account, I hear."
"Garret was all wrong for her."
"It must be due to her escort. I wonder who he is."
"Don't know, but her ladyship looks happy. I've never seen her wreathed in smiles."
I smiled to myself at that last comment as we came to a stop at in front of Malcolm. The opening waltz was beginning to play. I bowed toward Bella and started to move away, relinquishing her to dance with her grandfather.
"No, Edward, the dance is yours," Malcolm said.
I looked at Bella. She told me she would be dancing with him first.
With a blush, she looked at him like he had three heads.
"Out on the dance floor, you two," a nearby lady said, shooing us like we were chickens.
I smiled at Bella as I bowed once again before leading her out to the dance floor. Like when we had performed, we moved in harmony, graceful as could be. Those gathered circled around us, leaving us enough room for the intricate steps. Sadness filled me once the final notes played. I was startled when a hand came to a rest on my shoulder. Turning I came eye-to-eye with Malcolm. A sigh left me as I step aside and bowed toward Bella before walking to the edge of the dance floor. More dignitaries and their daughters joined them in a Scottish reel. Bella changed partners several times throughout the song and was back in her grandfather's arms at the end. He led her off the floor toward me whispering in her ear.
"See, lass, there is no reason for you to be dancing with anyone else tonight. Just don't disappear."
Bella nodded as Malcolm left her in my care. "Have fun, you two."
"I could use some water," Bella said, fanning her face as I led her to a chair near the wall.
She was flushed and a little out of breath.
"Then, I'll be right back," I said in her ear and headed toward the bar as two girls sat next to her.
BELLA'S POVEdward had just walked away when Myra and Olive sat next to me. They were a month younger than me.
"Spill," they said in unison.
Their accent was present, but they were well educated in English.
Myra continued. "Who's the gorgeous lad you danced with? And does he have a brother?"
"He's a friend from the states," I answered with a hint of jealousy in my voice. "He has two brothers, and they both have girlfriends."
"Darn," Olive said.
"So, we heard the council summoned you. What happened?" Myra asked.
"Actually, I summoned the council. And it was the same thing I summon them about every time I'm here, but this time I ruled in my favor."
"What made them change their minds?" Olive asked, looking toward the bar.
I followed her gaze. Edward was heading back with two tumblers. He handed me one, saving me from answering.
"That's between me and the council," I said after gulping down half the water. "Now, you two had best run along and have fun."
"What was that all about?" Edward asked, sitting down next to me.
"Silly girl talk," I answered. "You do know you don't have to stay with me all night, right?"
He smiled, leaning toward me. My heart tripped over itself as I thought he was going to kiss me.
"I don't know the language, and I don't want to leave your side," he whispered in my ear.
Did he seriously say that?
I felt my face heat as a strange feeling came over me.
"Isabella, excuse yourself for a minute, and then find your uncle. Ask him to accompany you on the grand piano," Grandmother said.
I smiled at Edward. "As much I would like to stay right here, there is a little something that I must see to."
His face fell.
What does that mean?
"I won't be gone long—a moment really."
No better time than now to give Edward his gift… I don't have the sheet music, I thought.
Once I was out of sight, I slipped out of the Great Hall.
"Isabella! Where do you think you are going?"
I stiffened at the sound of Charlie's voice.
I turned to face him.
Wait! What was he doing here?
As if he was reading my mind, he answered, "I was able to get a little time off to beam here for a few hours."
I gave him a hug.
"I slipped out to get something," I explained, looking around at the same time. Seeing no one, I summoned the sheet music. It flew through the air, straight into my uplifted hand.
"Isabella!" he said in a condescending tone. "What if someone saw?"
"There's nothing to worry about. All of the staff is in the Great Hall enjoying the festivities."
Charlie sighed.
"Is Uncle Billy here? I could use his help."
"Give me the score, and I'll find him."
"Not the keyboard, Charlie. The grand piano," I said, glancing down at the sheets.
I did a double take. This was for drums. I rifled through the sheets and found the piano and other instruments. Strange, I hadn't translated the music for other instruments yet. I separated the sheets out before handing them over.
"What's wrong?" Charlie asked.
"There's more than just piano, and I haven't, I mean I didn't…" I couldn't complete the sentence.
"Things happen all the time that you can't explain. Why does this surprise you?"
I shook my head.
"I don't know. It's just this song is very special, and I only had time to write one instrument."
Charlie wrapped an arm around my shoulders. "Come on. I know you are enthusiastic about singing this."
I made a face.
"More like dreading it. I'm not sure what reaction I'll get from everyone."
I wasn't about to tell him whose gift it was. He knew I wrote one special song each year, but this would be the first time I would sing on Christmas Eve since I was thirteen.
"You'll do fine. Whoever this is for, they're sure to love it," he said.
He looked down at the sheets after I handed him them.
"Why are there no words?"
"They will fill in as Uncle Billy plays. I didn't want anyone to see the words beforehand. That is why I was shocked that there were more instruments."
Charlie and I walked through the door near the dais. I wasn't surprised to find Uncle Billy sitting on the edge of the dais, waiting for us.
"Ah hud a feelin' ye woods be comin' in thes duir. Ah saw ye disappear an' somethin' tauld me ye woods need mah help."
All I could do was nod as Charlie handed him the sheet music.
"The grand piano," I said as he turned to talk with the band.
They glanced over at me when Uncle Billy motioned to me and smiled. I smiled nervously back. One of the band member disappeared and return moments later with a couple of music stands as the lead singer got everyone's attention.
"We be having a real treat tonight," he said in broken English. "We be having the pleasure of hearing the singing talent of her ladyship, Isabella."
I took a deep breath, taking the microphone he held out. I scanned the crowd for Edward. When I started singing, words I didn't write flowed from me.
My eyes locked with Edward's finally and never left. The song was his gift, and I wanted him to know how I felt about him.
I placed the microphone on the stand and moved away from it, knowing my voice would carry as I stepped off the dais.
Edward met me in the center for the room, pulling me into a slow dance as I continued to sing. His eyes held some emotion I didn't recognize, had never seen light his eyes before.
He moved our hands to the place right above his heart, drawing me a little closer. Holding me a little tighter, like if he didn't, I would disappear.
We continued dancing long after the final notes faded. I wasn't sure if there were any applause, and I probably wouldn't have heard them over the pounding of my heart.
Sometime later, the band started playing a slow song and couples surrounded us, dancing again. Charlie would see the sheets were placed under the Christmas tree for Edward.
Edward drew my other arm up to rest on his shoulder before he drew me closer still. No one really bothered us as the band continued with a series of slow songs.
I have no doubt that we could have stayed that way the rest of the night had Charlie not put his hand on Edward's shoulder.
"Do you mind if I steal one dance with Isabella before I have to leave and return to work?" he asked.
"Not at all," Edward answered, stepping back and bowed.
I instantly missed being in his arms. I watched over Charlie's shoulder as he walked away to talk with Grandfather.
"That was a beautiful song," Charlie said, pulling me back. "You wrote it for Edward, didn't you?"
"Yes, but not those words. They just flowed into me as I sang," I whispered. "I've never experienced anything like it before."
Charlie chuckled. "I imagine you haven't. I've placed it under the tree. The sheets are tied up with a silvery blue ribbon."
I nodded my thanks, and we both remained silent.
EDWARD'S POVI didn't know what came over me, but I was drawn to Isabella the moment she stepped around the microphone stand. After meeting her in the middle of the Great Hall, I pulled her into my arm, placed her right hand over my still heart, and listened to her as she finished the song, even though I had no clue what she was saying.
We continued dancing, and I was glad the band struck up a slow song once the applause died down. One song faded into another, and she and I didn't separate. We probably would have continued in that fashion if I hadn't I felt a hand on my shoulder, surprising me. I hadn't sensed anyone approaching, and with regret handed Bella over to dance with Charlie.
I walked away, heading in the direction of Malcolm. It was then I realized I couldn't hear his thoughts or anyone's, for that matter. A call to Carlisle was in order. Malcolm gave me a quizzical look when I continued right by him, needing a few minutes to think. Sitting, I leaned my head back against the wall and closed my eyes in an attempt to look tired.
A few minutes passed before someone spoke, causing me to jump. Again, I didn't sense anyone.
"Tired?" Bella asked. The metal chair creaked when she sat.
"Yes," I answered, opening my eyes to look at her.
"There's nothing holding us here. We can sneak away unnoticed and go to bed," she said with a yawn, resting her head on my shoulder.
My mouth twitched up into a smile. "Let's stay awhile longer and enjoy the music," I said, slipping my arm around her shoulders after pulling the gold wrap up to protect her bare skin a little more. Bella was breathing softly next to me when Malcolm approached.
"Is Isabella asleep?" he asked.
I nodded.
"Why don't you take her upstairs? I'll send a maid will to meet you in her room."
I nodded again as I slipped her right arm around my shoulder before slipping my right arm under her legs. A guard followed, as I walked from the room.