Into You
Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Twilight characters or anything Twilight related.
Alright you guys, this chapter might be a bit short, so take a moment slowly as we enjoy, spoiler alert, Edward and his friends' graduation! Stay tune for the end. :)
Chapter 30 – Congratulations
My momma called, seen you on TV, son
Said shit done changed ever since we was on
I dreamed it all ever since I was young
They said I wouldn't be nothing
Now they always say congratulations
Worked so hard, forgot how to vacation
They ain't never had the dedication
People hatin', say we changed and look, we made it
Yeah, we made it
~ Post Malone
Edward's POV
I added some ketchup on my hotdog before I sat the bottle down and picked up the bun.
"Edward, are you in here?" My mother called just as I took a bite out of my hotdog. She came into the kitchen in a dress until she saw me and sighed. "Oh Edward, you don't eat a hotdog all dressed up." She said, disapprovingly.
I looked at the hotdog and then at my mom. "This hotdog isn't dressed up." I said, showing it while my mom rolls her eyes.
"Funny." She said sarcastically as I chuckled before eating my hotdog. "Did you have to eat now?"
"You said I could eat before we go." I pointed.
"I meant eat an apple or even my leftover cookies." Esme said.
I just shrugged as I finished my hotdog. "Did you need something, mom?" I asked.
"Oh yes, can you zip up my dress, please?" She asked, turning around and I did so in zipping it all the way up while I saw my mother trying to put on one of her earrings until she gasped. "Oh no, my earring broke!" She said sounded frantic.
"Super glue's in the second drawer on the right of the sink." I pointed out casually. That's when I hear the doorbell ring.
"Could you get that?" Esme said as she heads to the drawer and rummages for the glue as I went to open the front door where I was greeted by Bella and her father with Fluff in Bella's arms.
"Looking sharp, son!" Charlie smiled.
"Thanks Charlie." I said before I let them both inside. That's when I stopped Bella and pulled her close to me so I can give her a kiss. "Hello, love."
"Hello to you too." Bella smiled as she wrapped her arms around me. Fluff comes in and wedges her little head in between us so she could lick my face causing both of us to laugh. "You look gorgeous." She said to me.
"I didn't have to do much." I shrugged with a smile. "It's only for the commencement ceremony."
"To which I'm proud that you're graduating!" Bella beamed as she pecked a kiss on my cheek.
"Do I need to excuse myself?" Charlie teased causing me to turn red as I saw him smirking earning a glare from Bella. "If you're going to act all lovey-dovey, at least do it when I'm not here."
"Sorry." I said, causing Charlie to chuckle.
"Anyway, this is for you." Charlie said, handing me a shiny blue paper bag. "Spoiler alert, your friends are going to get the same thing."
I accepted the bag and pulled out the grey paper tissues until I found an envelope inside. I opened it to see an Amazon gift that has $200 on it and tickets to the Mariners games this summer.
"Wow, this is nice of you guys. Thank you!" I smiled.
"Consider it as your plans for this summer before you go to college." Charlie smiled.
Damn, can't believe I'm graduating today. Time really went by fast, but hey, I'm glad that I'm done with high school. The finals are out of the way and I managed to maintain my grades. Now for one last thing to end this year.
"Edward!" I was awaken from my thoughts when I saw Renesmee coming in with my father behind her. "This is for you!" She held out what appears to be a lei made of blue and silver paper stringed together. I'm assuming my parents helped her out with that part.
I just chuckled as I got down let Renesmee put the lei around my neck. "Thanks sis, it looks great. I love it." I smiled causing my sister to smiled big as she jumped into my arms and hugged me. Can't helped but be sad to know that soon I won't be around to be with my little sister like we always do. I won't be there to play with her when she needs me and I won't watch her grow. Time really has fly by.
"We're glad you guys could make it." Carlisle said after I sat my sister down.
"We wouldn't miss it for the world." Charlie smiled.
"Are the others coming?" Carlisle asked.
"They're meeting us there. Although I got a feeling Emmett will cause quite the commotion before we get the chance to get there." Charlie said as if he's got a bad feeling about this causing me and Bella to laugh.
"Then how's about we take some pictures before we go?" Carlisle offered just as my mom came in all ready now with a camera in her hands.
That's what we did as I had my photos taken with my family and then with Bella and Charlie along with Fluff which Bella finds that cute. It feels more at ease when your pictures aren't taken by those annoying paparazzi. Soon, it was time to go. As we all got out of the house, Bella and I stayed back while everyone was getting in the cars.
"I won't see you until after the ceremony." I told her.
"Of course." Bella said and I gave her a kiss before we parted ways and into separate vehicles. The drive wasn't long as we arrived at Valley Bay Stadium, the last time I will walk on this field as a player and student. I got out of the car and put on my cap and gown with lei my sister made for me. Everyone went to go find seats while I went in to find all the students were gathering around, seeing each other for the last time. I greeted a few students and some of my teammates before I finally found my friends.
"Hey guys." I greeted them.
"There he is!" Demetri exclaimed as he flung his arm over my shoulder. "We did it dude! We're finally graduating and done with school!"
"We got another four years, you know that." I smirked.
"Oh you know what I mean." Demetri waved off. "Man, this is crazy!"
"I know, I didn't think it was going to happen to us." I admitted.
"I didn't think this place was going to be packed. Look at how many of us are graduating." Ben said as we all looked around at the group of students around us.
"I don't see Lauren here, but I guess that doesn't surprised me since pregnancy is sucking away her freedom." Heidi snickered.
"Still, it's amazing how many students in our class have made it." Jane said.
"Guess that's why dad decided to move the location of the ceremony here instead of the usual gymnasium." Alec said. "And it's not just because Bella, Charlie and her friends are here."
"No kidding." Jessica said. "People anticipated that Bella would be here for Edward." She said, giving me a smirk while I shook my head.
"Do you think people will bother our families since they're going to be sitting with Bella and the others?" Angela asked with worry.
"Eh don't worry about it." Seth said with a shrug. "Leah's here and she can scare off anyone who dares to interfere with our time and ruin the commencement ceremony. Plus, why else did the school faculty gave out certain amounts of tickets for those wanting to attend?"
"Yes, because this is about us, not on Bella. People came here to see us graduating." I said.
"So, this is it, huh?" Angela said, looking a bit tearful. "We'll be walking on stage and then things will start to change."
"We're all going to the same school together next year." Jane pointed out, though I can see she tearing up as well.
"You know what I mean." Angela said. "We all have plans for our own futures. Everything is about to change."
"But not our friendship." Heidi said, taking Angela's hand. "I feel like I just barely know you guys and I wouldn't be able to have friends like you if I haven't moved here."
"Same here," Seth said. "I wouldn't be the person I am if you guys haven't been there for me when my dad died."
"We've been friends for so long, it's crazy how much our lives have changed." Jessica said.
"If you're talking about our lives before Edward and Bella started dating, then yes, it is crazy." Ben said.
"You know guys," Demetri said. "Being with you all, it got me thinking about stuff." All of us looked at him curiously. "Like how if things don't work out for me in football. I still want to be involved where there are kids like me who were abandoned by their own parents. I was grateful for my adoptive parents and everything they've done for me. That's why I want to be involved in a community to help kids who had no family and don't have what we have now. I want to help those in need. That's why I'm decided to study in social work while learning a bit of psychology to help out the kids."
"Dude, that sounds awesome!" Seth said.
"Who are you and what the hell you've done with Demetri?!" I asked in surprised but in amazement as Heidi flung her arms around Demetri and kissed him fully.
"You'll be a hero to them!" Heidi said as Demetri hugged her.
"Now that you mention it, I've been hoping to do something similar to Demetri's." Seth said causing us to turn to him. "I'm hoping to help out kids, mostly to boys, who don't have a father growing up. I'm hoping to be there for them in ways to know that no matter what, they have someone to support them and build their future."
"With your positive attitude, I'm sure those boys will look up to you once they know your story." Jane smiled taking his hand causing Seth to smile as well.
"So you're still set on becoming a lawyer?" I asked.
"Hell yeah! It won't be easy, I know that. But nothing's going to stop me from achieving my goals and someone has to look out for you guys if our lawyer friends aren't around." Jane smirked.
"And that's who I'll be calling to defend my case if I'm trial." Ben chuckled. "As for me, I want to get involved in video games. Hopefully, when the time comes, I get to get involved with Madden since you guys know that it's been sucking the last few years and someone with expertise in video games and sports should know how the game should be played."
"I hope you can fix and make those ratings right." Alec commented. "I don't know yet about my future other than football, but I would to be analyst one day so I can commentate all the games that are happening and give a play by play."
"Well, you know your routes than many of us so there's no doubt you could be calling the shots before it even happens." Demetri said. "Heidi, tell everyone your plans."
"I don't know," Heidi seemed unsure.
"Go on."
"Okay," Heidi took a deep breath. "I'm deciding to study in form of arts. I'll be learning about fashion, acting, and music. I'm not trying to get into Hollywood, but I'm hoping to be involved in like working with other celebrities and collaborate with them."
"Heidi, that's sounds amazing!" Jane squealed. "You could end up famous like Bella and the others!"
"I don't care about that. I just like to get involved." Heidi said.
"Well I'll be sure to give out about you." Jessica said. "Once Angela and I get our degree in journalism, I'm hoping to make use of my fandom website expertise and make my own media company. You'll be sure to hear all the good things from me. Just don't slip up." She teased.
"And don't let me catch you in a worse possible way." Angela giggled. "I'm hoping that along with my journalism skills, I can use my photography skills and write reviews on places I go."
"As long as I'm with you." Ben smiled as he kissed Angela. That's when everyone turned to me and I just chuckled.
"You know where I'm hoping to be." I said. "But I want you guys to know that I love you all and no matter what where in the world any of us are, we'll always be friends."
"You mean the bond that we have?" Demetri asked. "Heh, that's a great point."
"No matter what we all may go through, oh how many times we may stumble, we'll follow the path we believe in. That's what we're all about." Alec said as we all agreed.
With that, we all had a group hug before we started taking some photos together and relishing the moment we have right now. I'm truly happy to have friends like them. Soon, it was time and we went our separate ways as we got in the order where we are assigned to by last names. As we walked down to the field and through aisle of seats, I looked up in the stands to see my family including Tanya and the others who came for Irina's as they were joined by not just my friends' families, but Charlie and Bella's friends as well and there, I saw her with Fluff in her arms. The minute our eyes met, Bella blew me a kiss causing me to smile as I caught it before being seated in a row where I am actually close to Ben and Seth.
Once all of us graduates have seated, Aro was up on stage by the podium giving his introduction. As he began speaking, I slipped out my phone and sent a quick text to Bella.
Enjoying the view up there? – Edward
I held my phone for bit as the speech goes on. As it ended, I received Bella's text.
It'll be more enjoyable if the cameras weren't pointing at our faces. lol – Bella
Hey, this will all be over soon, love. – Edward
Then I will be watching you the whole ceremony. :) – Bella
I texted Bella that I love her before I put my phone away. Some students went on stage to perform a graduation song and after that was done, Angela went up as valedictorian to give out the big speech.
"Here we are, ready to walk across this stage, something we've all dreamed of." She began. "As we close this chapter of our lives, a new one opens as we all start a new journey into a bright future. Many of us know where we are going, while others are unsure. Some may have setbacks that changes their plans because we don't know what is out there. I mean, how should we know? Because we don't. But that's part of life. There are times where things may look bad and it seems like all is lost. There are moments where some may question about who they are. And there are some times where you feel like you don't know what to do, or who to come to, like you're all alone.
You're not. That's what friends are for. That's something like we see in Rainbow Garden, who show us that friends can come in many ways. You don't need to find someone with the same background as you to make friends. As long as that person is there for you, no matter what the situation, as long as you treat them right, friendships will last forever. And they will always be here to support you on your dreams, your future.
So no matter what happens in the next ten years or so, as long as you keep your head up and have the people who are close to you, you can achieve anything. Be you. Don't change by being someone you're not. Don't just sit there and wait for things to happen, make it happen. Make mistakes along the way. Just know that this is future that's not just about you, but the people around you. Thank you." She finishes and all of us applauded for her before she left the stage and returned to her seat.
And it was time. Students were called up one by one to received their high school diplomas. All the students with last names beginning with A's and B's went by and soon we were at the C's. I watched as Seth and Ben respectively went up and received their diploma from Aro. From there, I could hear the cheers coming from the stands.
"Edward Cullen." And that's my cue. I thought as I walked up on stage and met up with Aro.
"Congratulations Edward." He smiled.
"Thank you, sir." I smiled as we shook hands before he handed me my diploma. That's when I heard cheering and I looked up to see all my friends and family calling for me. Tanya and Kate were cheering with Bella, Alice, Rosalie and Victoria while Emmett, Jacob and Jasper were clapping the loudest.
"Way a go, Cullen! You slay them!" Emmett cheered. Typical Emmett thing. I thought as I chuckled. I looked at Bella was proudly beaming making me wink at her before I left the stage and sat back down. I watch as all my other friends and the students were called and received their diplomas.
Finally, after Angela was the last one to receive her diploma, Aro came back up on stage and ordered us to stand up and turn our tassels saying that we have officially graduated causing us students to take off our caps and threw them into the air.
And that's it, we are graduates!
"Can't believe it's over. Just like that?" Demetri asked as my friends and I met up and started walking out of the field to meet up with everyone.
"Yeah, it feels weird afterwards for some reason." Ben said.
"Well, what did you expect?" Jessica asked.
"I don't know, fireworks, the music, something." Demetri said.
"How about this for something?" I chuckled as we were greeted by everyone waiting for us.
"Congratulations Edward!" Alice said as she happily jumped on me for hug which took me by surprised.
"Hey move it! That was my idea!" Victoria argued as she came at me for a hug adding that she was snuggling close to my face.
"Uh…" I don't know how to react.
"Hey, I don't give you a hug?" Rosalie teased as she got in and hugged me.
"Unfuckingbelievable!" Demetri said in disbelief, seeing me being hugged by the girls at once.
"Demetri!" Renesmee said, holding out her hand. Demetri let out a quick frustration as he handed Renesmee a dollar.
"Alright ladies, move it!" Emmett said, causing the girls to let go of me only for Emmett to scoop me up in a hug. "My turn!" I just chuckled before he puts me down and goes after my friends for hugs.
"Congratulations man, high school is over for you now." Jasper smiled as he pats my shoulder.
"Thanks guys." I said as Jacob thumps my back.
"That was probably the best graduation I've ever attended. Better than the one we did at our graduation scene for Rainbow Garden." Jacob said.
"Well I'm glad you guys came. Thanks so much." I said.
"Hey, we're happy to be here for you, Edward." Charlie said as Bella ran over and jumped into my arms for a hug. This time, I was preparing for it.
"Congratulations!" She exclaimed as she kissed me. I didn't say anything as I held her and kissed her back.
"It's out of the way. Now, it's you and me." I said to her. I placed Bella down, still holding her as I looked at our friends and family around us. "Well, you and me, and everyone around us." I said.
"We're always be here for you, Edward." Esme said, with tears in her eyes as she hugged me with a kiss.
"We're proud of you, son." Carlisle smiled as he gave me a hug as well.
Renesmee then held out her arms indicating I pick her up, which I did and she hugged me with a kiss on the cheek.
"I love you big brother." She said.
"Love you too, sis." I said.
"So," Aro said as he came over to us, placing his hands on Alec and Jane's shoulders. "Now that you all have graduate, what's next for you guys?" He asked with a smile.
"Well, we have summer coming up, and I'm sure everyone would love to come down to L.A. again." Charlie said.
"Edward, what do you say?" Demetri asked.
"Well, the sky's the limit. We'll see what happens in stores for us." I said and turned to Bella. "Just as long as I'm with you."
"You know I'll always make time for you. I'm with you all the way." Bella smiled.
"Forever?" I asked.
"Hopefully. For now, it's time we enjoy this summer vacation for you all." Bella said.
Yes, time to enjoy summer and then moving on with the next chapter of our lives. As long as Bella is part of my life, it doesn't matter to me what happens as long as Bella's with me, knowing I love her as she does to me.
And there you have it! Edward's graduation! Such a happy moment for our characters to make it through the year. Thank you all for reading this story and giving it all the love and support. Can't believe it took me three years to get this story together. Usually my stories I get them done in like less than a year. Oh well. Better late than never.
Anyway, I'm glad you have enjoyed this story and I know you guys are probably sad that the story has ended. But… did I really say that this was the last chapter of the story? ;)
I LIED!
I'm actually planning on putting outtakes for this story. I mean, we want to see the aftermath of what goes on with Edward, Bella and their family and friends, right? :D I got eight planned outtakes for Into You. After they are done, we will go back to Light Me Up to finish off hearing Bella's POV of Into You and see how she goes through the events of this story. But anyways, yeah, this story has not ended quite yet even though this chapter states to be the end. So don't worry guys, you can now rejoice to see more of this! Don't be mad that I had you all fooled thinking it's over. Please review.