I sincerely apologize for the late chapter. I really try to get out a chapter a month as it takes me awhile to write them, but the holidays and a new relationship have kept me busy! But i didn't forget about you guys, or this story, I am determined to see this to the end!
*ALL CHARACTERS BELONG TO THE LOVELY STEPHENIE MEYERS
Chapter 25
August 11th four years ago
Bella POV
I felt like every inch of my body was on fire. Everything hurt at this point. Even my fingers were hurting and squeezing them so hard. Why do people encourage this! Why would someone choose to do this again.
I am never doing this again!
"Come on Isabella, one more big push" I shook my head no. I was to tired! Why doesn't this nurse come over here and push if she wants to be so damn bossy.
"I don't think I can do this Emmett" I cried! he just smiled down at me and wiped my forehead with a cool washcloth.
"Yes you can Isabella. You are so close to meeting your baby. I know you can do this. Your so damn strong little sister" I wanted to see him, but I'm also so scared to see the face of my own children.
I'm scared that I will look at my son and only see Him looking back at me. What if my son grew up to do the same thing. It would completely destroy me. I couldn't raise him to become a monster.
But it was to late for any of that. For now I held onto Emmett's hand tightly and pushed with everything I had I had left. "That's it Bella!! Good job" I listened to the nurse count down and finally pulled in a deep breath when she got to ten. I was definitely regretting not getting the drugs right about now.
"You are doing so good, Bella. On your next contraction I need you to push again, as hard as you can, ok?" Doctor Denali patted my knee and smiled at me. I shook my head wanting it to be over already. I was just so tired.
The next contraction came so quickly, I felt like I never even got a chance to breathe again before the tightness started once again. Pulling in lung fulls of air, I squeezed Emmett's hand and pushed with every bit of strength I had left in me. This push felt different from the others. I was on fire down there. it was like someone was tearing me in two. "Ahhh! Oh God" I yelled out squeezing Emmett's hand so hard, I could hear his hiss loudly. "Good job Bella! I can see the head. Give me one more big push" I pushed as hard as I could and this time I felt a big pop and a gush with such intense pressure it made me cry out again, but then it was all gone. All the pain and pressure was relieved and a piercing cry rang through the small hospital room.
"You have a beautiful baby boy Isabella" The tears that I was holding back, starting running down my cheeks, as they laid this warm squishy baby on my chest. His face was all wrinkled up and red from crying so hard, but he was so breathtakingly beautiful.
He had so much dark brown hair and all the rolls with the chubbiest little cheeks! "Oh baby! You are finally here. Shhh honey it's okay" Patting him bum, I pulled him tighter against my chest, trying to give him my warmth. Looking up I saw, my big bear of a brother crying as he looked down at his new nephew with such pride.
"Oh Bella! He is so beautiful, you did so well little sister" I smiled wide, feeling a burst of happiness and pride at my brother reaction. I couldn't have done this without him by my side. He saved me though this and has been my rock though out my whole pregnancy. "Thank you Emmett. Thank you so much" The nurse came up to me and grabbed my baby off my chest. I'm sure the concern was written all over my face as she took him away, because Emmett spoke up. "I can see him Bella. They just put him in that bed thingy and are cleaning him up"
"Go over there and be with him! I'm fine but he's all alone!" Emmett looked torn between staying with me and staying near the baby, but after I pleaded with him again, he finally kissed my head and walked over to the crib where my son laid. His cries were piercing my heart, I didn't care how sore I was, I was ready to jump out of this bed and make sure he was alright.
While they were cleaning up the baby, I had to deliver the afterbirth. Definitely not the most comfortable thing I've ever experienced, but it wasn't anywhere near as bad as actually giving birth. I still don't want to do that ever again! I had to have four stitches put down there! How will I even go and get those removed! I don't think I want to know right now.
I tried to keep my mind off of what my doctor was doing and keep my eyes on Emmett, as he cooed over his new nephew. He had his phone in hand snapping pictures and taking little videos of my son screaming his head off at being cold and everyone poking at him.
The nurse had just finished putting a new gown on me when my big bear of a brother walked up to me, cradling a little blue bundle in his big arms. I had no idea that a baby could be so tiny, or maybe my brother was just too big! "I think someone wants his mom" Wow, I was a mom now. I was actually someone's mother and I had to keep this tiny thing alive and well for the next 18 years.
Emmett ever so carefully place my baby in my arms, like he was holding a porcelain doll and not a human baby. "So this is who's been kicking me huh?" The baby's cries instantly ceased as he looked up at me with his grey eyes. I was completely in love at that moment. This was my son and I was going to love him forever.
"Welcome to the world, Masen Emmett Swan" My world was changed that very day. It changed for the better and filled my heart with so much love and happiness. Masen made me whole again and he's been my best friend since. There has not been a day where I woke up and regretted my decision to keep my son with me. To raise him as my own and keep him with me every single second of every day.
The nurses finally finish cleaning up me and also took my son again and put a cute little blue hat on his head and swaddle him in a fresh new hospital blanket. He looked so cozy and relaxed all cuddle up, his little cheeks were so chubby that it popped over the edge of the blanket. They had just handed him back to me, when there was a knock on my room door and Rosalie stepped inside carrying a blue balloon with the words "IT'S A BOY" written on it.
Emmett rushed forward with a huge smiled, going over to peck her the lips and wrapped his arm around her waist, leading her over to my bedside "Oh Bella! I'm so sorry I missed it, I came as quickly as I could, but clearly I wasn't fast enough" Rose smiled down at the sleeping baby in my arms and ran her finger down his soft cheek.
"It is okay Rose! Em stayed by my side the whole way and I couldn't have done it without him" I smiled at my big brother, I could feel the tears welling in my eyes as he smiled back down at me. How did I get so blessed to have Emmett as my big brother. Looking back down at my son, I knew that I was making the right decision with this next step. "I have something to ask of you both"
"Anything" They said in unison with each other, making me giggle. "You guys have been my biggest supporter during this season and I couldn't have done it without you. Which is why, I couldn't think of two better God parents for my son. Would you do me the honor of not only being Masen's Aunt and Uncle, but also his Godmother and Godmother, we would both be so grateful" Rosalie's violet eyes instantly filled with tears, her head coming up to cover her mouth.
"Oh Bella! I would be so honored to be his Godmother. I promise you that I will keep his safe and protected till my last breath on this earth. He will be the most loved and well cared for little boy in all of Arizona!" Rose leaned down and gave me the best hug she could give me, with a baby between us. Masen let out a grumbled from being squished and wiggled closer to my chest. "Oh sorry buddy"
looking back up, I gasped at what I saw. My big tough brother was standing before me with tears running down his face, his cheeks were flushed and I could tell he was holding himself back, from full on sobbing at this moment. "Bella, I would be so amazingly proud to be his Godfather. I am in Aww of you little sister, you have taken such a shit situation and turned it into such a beautiful thing. Not only have you given our family so much joy, you have now just given us something so precious and special to love and care for. I can not thank you enough, Bella" Emmett leaned over and once again, gave me the best hug he could without upsetting the baby.
"Oh Emmy! You don't need to thank me for anything. I am so grateful that you have both stood by me through my whole pregnancy and I will never be able to say thank you enough" I saw Rosalie watching Masen's every move and I could tell she was just itching to hold him, but she wasn't going to ask.
"Would you like to hold him Rose?" She bit her lip, seeming to be thinking it over. "I don't want to hurt him" I shrugged and moved to hand her my baby. "You won't hurt him Rose. Babies are a lot more tough then you think" Masen grunted away as we moved him around, definitely wanting to let us know that he was not happy about being moved. "Just make sure you hold his head" Rosalie carefully cradled the baby in her arms, and rocked him back and forth, effectively ending his grunts.
"How is he so tiny! I wasn't expecting him to be this small" I smiled at them, feeling a big wave of pride falling over me. It was like I just worked nine months on my most important art project and now I'm getting to share it with everyone. "My doctors were thinking he might be close to eleven pounds with how big I was carrying, but he was right at ten pounds and two ounces" Emmett and Rosalie stood there and cooed over my son, telling him how handsome he was and how happy we were to have him in our family now.
The nurse came in and brought me a huge cheeseburger with fries and an apple pie. I was starving by now and I didn't wait a second to dive into this delicious looking food. It was actually very helpful to have someone here that could hold the baby, I would have hated to put him in the crib, he's never been alone before and he hasn't even been in the outside world for two hours yet.
I had just finished my food, when the pediatrician came in and said that it was time for the baby to have his first meal. "Are you nursing or bottle feeding mom?" She asked me as she took my son from Rosalie's arms. Masen let out his first little cry since birth and it made my heart rate jump, as I leaned up trying to get to him. "I want to nurse him please" She smiled and gave me a happy look, seemingly to agree with my decision to breastfeed.
"Alrigjt, so what you are going to do, is holding him close to you and once he opens super wild, you will place your nipple in his mouth for him to latch"
"And that's my cue to leave! I'm gonna go check out the cafeteria" Emmett announced holding up his hands in surrender as he backed out of the room. Making me and Rose laugh at him. He literally just saw me giving birth, but a little bit of boob and he's out faster than I could blink.
Rose and the doctor set me up with lots of pillows and the doctor also unwrapped Masen, saying it will help him wake up to eat. Mase had no problem latching on and started sucking loudly trying to pull the milk down. "Wow, you have a little pro on your hands, Miss Swan" He definitely was a little pro, he fed on each side for a total of 30 minutes and afterwards he had this happy smile on his face and cuddled into my naked chest with a sigh falling right back to sleep.
"You will just do the same as you did now, every two hours and by tomorrow your milk should fully come in. Now if there anything else I can do for you mama?" I shook my head, pulling the covers up over me and Masen. We were both full and in desperate need of a nap, I can't ever remember a time in my life where I was ever this exhausted. But I was also so completely happy and in love with my new baby, I couldn't wait to see what life would bring us.
Present Day
My Whole life changed for the better that day. My whole perspective on life was changed and healing because of my son. I looked at everything in a new way, everything was so exciting to experience again, because this time I was showing everything to my very own son. I was able to watch the world through his eyes and see the joy in the littlest things. There was no way better in my life, Masen Emmett Swan. He was the best thing that had ever happened to me and now I also have Edward that I get to love on and he has become the second best thing in my life.
Masen decided that he was going to sleep in for the first time in his life on his birthday. My body was up and ready to go at six am. I was so excited to see him and just laid up in bed waiting for that door to burst open and my birthday boy to come barreling through. But the hours passed by and before I knew it, I had dozed off and woke up again with a start at half past eight and Mase will still sleeping soundly, but this time Edward was awake and was also watching the now open door.
"I just checked on him and he's out cold, not even stirring a little bit" I looked up at Edward and laughed. "He has never ever slept past seven, in the four years I have known him this child has never slept in, and on the day we don't want him to sleep in, he sleeps in!" I flopped back down on my bed with a huff.
"I mean, I've only known him for a year, but I have never seen him sleep this late. Even while you were in the hospital, he was up at his usual six thirty" Masen has always been an early riser. No matter how late I might let him stay up, he will wake up at six thirty on the dot. It's perfect now that he's in school, but if he starts sleeping late like this, then he will definitely be missing school.
"It's crazy we have been together for a whole year now! I'm sorry I wasn't there for our anniversary honey. You know I wouldn't have missed it for the world if I had a choice" Edward reached down and stroked my cheek for a moment before leaning down and leaving a feather like kiss upon my lips.
"Isabella Marie, I don't ever want to hear you apologize for that again. You had no choice in the matter and I know you wouldn't have missed it for anything. We will have our redo babe, just promise" He was right of course, but I still feel so bad that we missed out. We could have been engaged right now, but I'm laying in this bed with a huge case and covered in scratches and bruises. Not even able to get up and check on my son, on his birthday. I could feel my mood damping down as I thought about everything I couldn't do this year. But I tried to think of something else, today was not the day for sad moods.
"I know we will." Edward slid us down the mattress some, so he could wrap his arms around me and hold me close to him. "I love you Bella" he whispered, kissing the top of my head. I smushed my face against his neck, breathing in that sweet Edward smell. "I love you more" We stayed much like that for quite some time. My eyes were just starting to get heavy when I heard the patter of Masen's footsteps on the hardwood floors.
I instantly perked up and struggled for a moment to sit up; before Edward came to my rescue and put his hands under my arms pulling high up on the bed. Masen came running into the room and jumped right on the bed screaming at the top of his lungs. "ITS MY BIRTHDAY!" Over and over again. It was completely adorable and I hated that I couldn't join in on the fun, but I smiled and laughed along with him anyway.
"Happy birthday Masen! We love you so much baby boy" I told Maser, while I held open my arms for a hug. With zero hesitation Masen flung full force into me, knocking all the air out of my lungs, making me gasp. "MASEN!"
Everything happened all so fast. Edward jumped forward and pulled Masen off of me and kinda tossing him to his side of the bed, his hands running over me trying to find where I was hurt. Masen's big brown eyes started filling with tears as he stared at me.
"I'm so sorry mommy! I didn't means to hurt you" Masen sobbed, he brought his knees to his chest and held them there, hiding his face from us. "It was just an accident baby. Edward stop it, I'm fine" I swatted his hands away from me and reached for Masen again. He crawled over to me slowly and curled up on my lap, doing his best not to push on anything that would hurt.
Once he was all comfortable his cries quieted down, his little hand had reached up and started twisting a piece of my hair around his finger. Edward's face was pale and he looked positively sickened at what had just occurred. I know he hadn't meant to hurt Masen's feelings. He would never do anything to hurt that little boy. Edward got scared for me and just wasn't thinking. I know he's going to be beating himself up over this, for the rest of the day.
Reaching my hand up I motioned for Edward to come sit down with us. He watched Masen for a moment, before moving back to his side of the bed and sitting as close as he could get to us. "I'm so sorry Masen, I'm so so so sorry" Masen reached for Edward's hand and pulled it to his chest.
"it's ok Eddie. You scared me when you yelled" Edward sighed, I could see him fighting a battle in his head. His eyes looked so sad as he looked down at Masen. He has never raised his voice at Masen, the whole situation was just chaos and everyone got scared and acted out of that. "Masen buddy, you know I never meant to raise my voice. I when mama got hurt it scared me and I just reacted without thinking and I'm really so sorry"
"I'm ok Eddie. I forgive you, I love you Eddie!" Masen leaped over into Edward's lap and wrapped his little arms around his neck squeezing with all his might. "I love you too, Masen. So much" Once we moved pasted our little hiccup, we stayed cuddled up in bed and we talked about the plans for today. "Mommy you are coming to the park right?"
"What! Of course I am going, why would you ask that?" Masen's shrugged his shoulders as his finger poked my green cast. "You still have the big ouchie on your leg mommy" I nodded. I actually wasn't sure how I was going to get around the park; but I knew Edward would help me figure it out.
"Don't worry about that Masey! I will be there baby, now I won't be able to run around and play, but I'll be there non the less" Edward and Masen soon left the bed to start on breakfast. Before they left, Edward helped me into my wheelchair so I could try and get my morning routine done and could feel a little more human. I was doing pretty well on getting around without needing a lot of help. But there was still some things I just couldn't do without some help. Like taking a shower or getting on and off of the toilet. Anything that involved me to stand was quite a struggle, but we were making it work.
Alice has been an amazing help, same with Esme. I definitely couldn't do it without them and neither could Edward. We were both relying heavily on his mom and sister right now. My dad and Sue do what they can, but with us being 30 minutes away and them both having a full time job, makes it a bit difficult for them to be over here everyday.
I washed my face and brushed my teeth. I also brushed though my tangled hair and braided it into a fishtail braid. It wasn't much, but it would keep it out of my face and it does look somewhat presentable. I wheeled myself into the closet and managed to get me a maroon cashmere sweater and some stretchy blue jeans that I can slide over my cast. I was able to get my shirt on, but I definitely couldn't get my pants on alone. I would need Edward's help for that one.
Since I was going to be around others, I put a spritz of my favorite perfume, romance by ralph lauren. I have been wearing this fragrance since I was 15 and surprisingly my mother had bought me a bottle for Christmas and I just happened to love the scent. Edward loves it too! Every time I wear it, he keeps his nose in my neck trying to smell it. It's quite fun to say the least.
Edward came back into our room, free of Masen and carrying a steaming cup of coffee. "You look beautiful baby" Edward leaned down and kissed my cheek, setting my coffee down in front of me. "Just how you like, babe" I thanked him and picked up my cup, bringing it to my lips, so I could blow on it, with hopes of cooling it down some.
Edward walked into the closet, going through his clothes to find something to wear today. "Where's Masen?" I asked.
"He's eating a bowl of coco puffs, that's what he said he wanted" Edward shrugged a smile playing on his lips. Coco puffs was Masen's new obsession and it was all Edward's fault. One night Edward had a craving for thats chocolate sugary cereal and went out to Safeway to buy a box. Which Masen spotted the next morning and Edward let him have a bowl for breakfast! He could have just gave him a bowl of ice cream and it would have been the same.
Edward was so excited to see Masen love something, that he also really enjoyed as a child and I have seen them both sitting at the kitchen bar eating a bowl of coco puffs. I hate it! Coco puffs was never my cereal choice as a kid. I loved Cinnamon Toast Crunch, so of course we had to get a box of that as well and put it to the test, to see which one Masen would have the best. He ended up liking them both, but saying the coco puffs was better, because you get chocolate milk at the end. I couldn't argue with that.
"You know, you're going to be the one dealing with him for the rest of the day. He's going to have cake and ice cream later" Edward shrugged, pulling his jeans over his legs. "I don't mind, it's his birthday" I mean he's not wrong. It's not everyday that you turn four years old.
"Esme is bringing the pizza right?"
"Yeah baby, and Allie will have the ice cream and chips. Your dad and Sue is bringing the ice and drinks. And me and you have the decorations and the birthday boy"
"And you sent everyone the money for it all?"
"Yes baby. Though only Alice accepted it" Edward smirked. It definitely doesn't surprise me that our parents wouldn't take the money. I knew they both would have a nice gift for Mase on top of the food and drinks they brought. "We will have to make sure we do something nice for them. Maybe we could invite them all to a dinner over here...I mean once I can walk again" I laughed.
"We will think of something" Edward finished getting dressed and came over to help me pull the pants over my legs. It was a bit of a struggle, but we made it worked and we were both dressed. Edward handed me my makeup bag, that had been pushed to far back and left me to put that on, while he went to get Masen in the shower.
Edward managed to have everything ready right at two. Masen was dressed in a mustard colored light sweater and some jeans that could get dirty from playing. He had even tried to tame Masen's hair and I loved him for it. He looked so handsome and I don't care what anyone's says, he looked older to me, the baby roundness to his face, has really started to fade away this year. He is starting to look more like a child than a toddler, which is so very sad, but I know it needs to happen eventually.
"Eddie's got you looking all snazzy son" Masen smiled up at Edward, blush coving his chubby cheeks. "Thanks mama! You look very pretty!" I thanked him, pulling him in for a hug, I just couldn't believe that my first baby is already four years old! Next year he's off to kindergarten and then before I know it, he's going to be leaving me for college! That will be one sad day for everyone.
"Well are you boys ready to get this show on the road! We have a birthday party to get to" Edward helped Masen with his backpack, he said he just had to bring him backpack. He wouldn't tell us what was inside the backpack, and I couldn't lie and say I wasn't intrigued, because I definitely was! But I would respect his privacy and not peek inside, no matter how much I wanted too.
Edward pushed my wheelchair out to the car and literally picked me up and place me in the car, much to my dismay. I know he was just trying to help and make it as easy as possible for me, but it definitely doesn't make me feel like an adult, much less anyone's mother, as I'm being picked up and placed inside the car like a toddler. But I thanked him nonetheless and gave him my best smile.
Thankfully we were the first people to show up at the park. I was worried we would be late and guests could have started to show and wouldn't know where to go. But we were good. As soon as Edward put the car in park, Masen was instantly out and running to the playground. I could hear his squeals of delight as he rushed to play.
I helped Edward decorate the best I could, but I wasn't much help at all. I ended up just wheeling myself over to the food table and starting setting that up, since I could easily do that from my chair, without getting in anyone's way. Thankfully I saw Esme and Carlisle sleek black Audi A5 pull into the car park and I breathed a sigh of relief as I saw Esme, knowing she would be my hands for today with helping Edward along.
"Where is my birthday boy!" Esme's smile was blinding and she looked beautiful today! She was wearing a long sleeve light pink dress that ended just below her knees and she paired it with black tights and tall black boots. She looked as stylish as ever and I knew Alice was going to appreciate this outfit. Carlisle wasn't far behind her with his arms full of stuff. "This is not even half of the stuff in our car!" Carlisle sighed, Edward rushed forward to help grab a few things and lead his dad over towards a table so he could sit the rest of it down there.
"How are you doing Bella? Feeling good?" I nodded.
"Yeah I'm feeling great! Other than the sadness, I feel now that my little baby is four!" Esme patted my shoulder and smiled down at me. "He will always be your little boy, Bella. No matter how tall he gets, or how much chest hair he might have, he will always be your baby" I chuckled, Esme will always see her children as her babies. Even if one of her babies has now had her own baby. My hope is to be a mom like Esme. To be so kind and caring at all ages and times of life, she will forever make sure they know, She will always be their mom, no matter what age.
"You are so right, Esme. Masen will forever be my baby, he will always hold such a special place in my heart. Me and Masen have almost grew up together, I have been learning so much right along side him."
"Bella you have done a wonderful job raising that little boy, though the circumstances you had, you still made it your life mission to make sure that little boy was happy and loved. Even on the days you struggled, Masen wouldn't have known that at all. All he will know is the you were always there for him. Though thick and thin" Tears were running down my face, at the end of her speech. Esme could make anyone feel better, she just has the best soul and presence.
"Thank you so much Esme! Your words mean the world to me"
"it's all the truth honey. You are a wonderful mother" Esme leaned down and let me hug her tight. I wouldn't have made it through the first two years with Masen without Esme. She literally saved my life and I think I called her more than anyone else, including Masen's pediatrician.
"NANA!" Esme turned around just in time to catch my running child, who was barreling towards her. "Hello my handsome grandson! Happy birthday baby" Esme covered his flushed face in kisses, making him giggle and squirm in her arms. "Thanks Nana! Where is Grampy?" Esme sit him on his feet and pointed out Carlisle for him. "Go on and say hello" Masen copied his actions with Esme and darted towards Carlisle and crashed into his legs
"Oof" Carlisle got knocked back a few steps from the for force of the impact. Luckily Edward was standing right there and reached out a hand on his shoulder, to steady him again. "That's one strong birthday boy!" Carlisle laughed, he picked Masen up swinging him around while singing, he's a jolly good fellow.
Once everyone finish taking their turns wishing Masen a happy birthday, we got busy with the setting up and decorating. Alice and Jasper showed up not long after Edward's parents got there. Once they arrived I got place on baby duty and I wasn't against that what so ever! My little Kimmy bear had grown so much over the past few months. She was now six months old and was so active and interested in the world around her.
She was just starting to crawling now and she seemed to love being able to more around freely. Kimberly loved her mother. Her blue eyes would just shine when Alice was in the room, the only other person she loved almost as much was her daddy. Kimmy knew who her parents were and could spot them from across the room. Once her eyes found them her chunky little legs would start kicking as she squealed and reached for them.
She would only let others hold her, as long as she could still see one of her parents in the otherwise that lip would pop out and she will cry like there's no tomorrow. Anyone who's around her can't help, but wants to cry right along with her. Kimberly's cries were so pitiful and heartbreaking that we would do anything to help her. Edward especially couldn't handle when she cried, but he had a wonderful talent for quieting her cries. He would hold her close and hum a lullaby to her, her crying would fade as she looked up at her uncle giving him a cheeky smile. Definitely makes my baby fever go wild!
Soon the park was full of screaming children all running around hyped up on Cotton candy, lollipop and other sugary things, they could get their hands on. All of Masen's new friends showed up to the party, all came bearing a gift for him, even though we insisted it wasn't necessary. Masen had more than enough of everything! The gift table was already so full that present were now having to be placed on the floor, I wasn't even sure if he would have enough time to open them all!
It was very nice to meet all of the moms from Masen's school, it was definitely a bit awkward for the fact that I'm in a wheelchair and not able to be running around like I usually am. All the moms were very considerate of my condition and even offered to help in anyway they could, it was so sweet of them to offer and truly touched my heart. I even got to meet some friends of Masen's that I had yet to meet. They were all such sweethearts and my Mase had definitely picked a good little friend group!
I sent Edward and Jasper off to collect not only the birthday boy but all of his friends as well from the playground, so we could get the cake started. "Come on over guys!" Soon the picnic pavilions we had set up at was over flowing with the kids from Masen's class all ready for a slice of cake. I noticed Edward standing next to his mother and not next to us, he seemed like he didn't know where to go.
"Edward can you come stand on the other side of Masen?" His green eyes lit up as he rushed over to stand next to Masen, ruffling his hair. "You ready birthday boy?" Edward asked Masen.
"I'm ready!" I handed Edward the lighter as I couldn't reach to light the candles myself. Everyone gathered around. All these people here are who helped Masen through his third year of life and are all celebrating him as he goes into his forth.
Edward lit the four green candles and we all started to sing. "Happy Birthday to You. Happy Birthday to You. Happy Birthday Dear Masen. Happy Birthday to You!" Masen closed his eyes for a moment, making his wish I'm sure. Than he blew out each candle with a big smile on his face. "Happy Birthday baby! We love you so much"
"Your mom is right Masen! What did you wish for?" Mase motioned for Edward to lean down so he could whisper it. I'm not sure what he said, but whatever it was made Edward look so ecstatic and happy that it made me want to cry. Edward nodded to Masen with the biggest smile ever and whispered back to him making Masen smile just as big. I desperately wanted to know what they were taking about, but I left it. For now.
We handed out small slices of cake to all these already hyper kiddos. Trying to save the bigger slices for the tried parents. I watched as Edward handed the last little girl a piece of cake and smiled at her so sweetly, as she told him a story. It was so incredibly touching to watch him with other children and seeing how good he is with them, not just our son.
"I wanna thank everyone who came out today to celebrate our little man. We are so proud and blessed to have Masen in our lives and I cannot wait to see what this next year looks like with you all by his side" I smiled at each of our family members, feeling extra grateful for them. "Feel free to mingle and eat. We will open some presents once the birthday boy is done eating. If you need to head home we understand! Just please say goodbye before you go, thank you all again!"
I carried our sleeping boy in my arms as Edward pushed my wheelchair and we made our way back to the car after a very long day. Masen had wore himself out today, after eating his body weight in sugar, he climbed up in my lap and fell asleep while right on my chest. All the guests had been long gone, we cleaned up and the family enjoyed spending time together and had been talking and laughing for quite sometime as Masen played on the now empty playground.
Soon after Masen fell asleep so did baby Kimmy and we knew it was time to pack it up and get these kiddos home and in bed for a good nap, and maybe even mommy and daddy too!
I let Edward peel the sleeping child off my body and put Masen in his booster seat buckling him in and pressing a kiss on his forehead when he was all done. Edward turned around giving me a smile, "Can I help you into the car princess?" I giggled. "Why yes, you may" He leaned down and scooped me up bridal style and quickly pushed his lips against mine, giving me a very needy kiss. Which I gladly accepted, I've missed him, I've missed this. The connection we have with one another, how he can touch my heart and see my soul just from one touch, one kiss. I wanted nothing more then to go home and let him make love to me. But my doctors have made it clear that I am to have no physical activity whatsoever. My hip might not have to be in a cast anymore, but it was still in the healing process and one quick moment or thrust could break it again. If that happened I would be back in a full leg cast, from my hip to my foot.
"Come on princess, let's get you home. And out of the cold" Our ride home was quiet and peaceful. Soft classical music played on the radio, Masen quiet sores were coming from the back seat as he continued to snooze away. "Do you think he enjoyed his birthday, Edward?" I interrupted the quiet, my voice seemed so loud in the car that we both peeked back at Mase to see if he had moved, but he was still asleep, his head slumped over with his hair covering his eyes.
"I think he had a wonderful birthday, baby. He seemed very happy today, wouldn't you say?" I nodded. This was definitely the happiest Masen had been since the accident and I was overjoyed that we could bring that big smile back to his face. "We can ask him later, but I would say he had a good birthday baby" Edward picked up my hand, kissing my palm. I smiled at him, moving my hand to stroke his cheek.
"Are you going to tell me what Masen wished for?" Edward hesitated for a moment, his eyes flashing up to the mirror for a second and looking at Masen. "He said that he wished I was his real daddy" Edward swallowed thickly, his voice catching on the last two words. "What did you tell him?" I asked.
"I told him that, no matter what happens that I am and always will be his daddy. And that nothing would make me happier then to be his father, that I was so blessed to be in his life and for him to have chosen me" Two tears rolled down his cheeks. His jaw was clenched as he fought through his emotions.
"Oh sweetheart, Masen is so incredibly blessed to have you as his daddy, you deserve that more than anything in this world, I hope you know that." He looked over at me for just a second before turning back to the road. Seeming to be thinking of something.
"Bella, when we get married, I want to adopt Masen" I smiled, my heart felt like it could burst at this very moment. "Edward I wpuod love nothing more than for you to adopt my son. Maybe we could incorporate it into the wedding. If I ever get proposed too" I gave him a pointed look. We have passed our, one year goal and I was more then ready to just go down to the courthouse and get this show on the road.
"I have a plan baby, don't you worry about it, all you need to do is sit there and look beautiful, you can do that without even trying" He shot me a wink.
"Oh Edward, life with you will never be a dull moment, that's for sure"
September
Bella POV
The rest of august pasted us by very quickly, it was full of physical therapy sessions for me and hundreds of doctors appointments, Edward won the big case he's been working on and it's been a huge relief for him. I've never seen him so upset and stressed over a case like this, but it was a messy one and I'm so glad it's finally over for all parties and he got the justice he needed.
Masen has been doing amazing in school, he has been work that's above his class and has been excelling in it. I know Miss Barbs wants to move him into their preschool class, not that she doesn't want him in her classroom, she just want to hold him back. But I know my son, he wouldn't do well to move him into a new classroom, not when he has just adjusted to this environment and has all these new friends in that classroom. We will reevaluate in January and see what Masen thinks about it, but for right now, he's just fine.
As for James, well he has not been found. It's like he literally fell off the face of the earth. He hasn't even been spotted here or in Phoenix. He has a warrant out for his arrest and his face is everywhere telling others to be on the lookout as he is dangerous and possibly armed.
My car was totaled in the accident, meaning I now will have to find a new car. I got more than enough money from my insurance settlement, Edward wants a Tesla! I keep informing him that it's my car and I will be the one driving it around not him. I am thinking of a Denali SUV. Masen is getting older and will probably have friends that will need a ride every now and then. Plus me and Edward definitely want to have more children, so a bigger car will be needed at some point. It's not like I can drive anywhere right now, so it's not my main priority.
This week has been a busy week. On Monday morning Edward took me out to the hospital and my huge cast was finally able to be removed and I was now in a small walking boot. I am still taking it very slowly and trying not to over do it as I can only walk in small amounts, I even have a walker that my doctors recommend for me to use for at least another week and I have use it if I leave the house, but I'm trying to walk around without the walker.
Not only was today a big day for my leg, but it was also my birthday today. I was officially 24 years old today and my body felt like it was 34 at this point. Physical therapy has been kicking my ass and I didn't realize how sore I would have been after my car accident, every part of me ached and hurt most of the time. My doctors said that will fade over time, but I might always have a dull ache in my hip.
Tonight Edward was taking me out to a fancy dinner and I think he has a few other surprises up his sleeve for tonight, but he wants to keep it a secret from me! Alice has promised me to come over and help me get ready, and Esme was already going to be here to watch Masen. So she promised to watch Kimberly for a little bit too. Sometimes I don't know what we would do without that woman. She's a God send for sure!
Esme met me and Edward at the doctors office, Edward needed to run into work for some reason, seeing as her usually takes most of the day off on Fridays, but I didn't think much of it and I was just happy to be leaving the office and going to get Masen from school. "It shouldn't take me long baby. I will be home in more then enough time for our date" Edward kissed my forehead and close my door, he stood there and watched his mom drive off, giving us a little wave.
I was practically shaking in my seat when we pulled up to Masen's school. This will be the first time I actually get to walk up to the school with all the other moms for kid pickup. The first time I don't have to be pushed up a ramp and have to rely on someone else just to get my son from his school. Esme seemed to know this and after she made sure I got out alright, she said she would meet me back around and pulled off leaving me there.
I hobbled my way closer to the door, and leaned against a lamppost, just in case. I wasn't going to have my first fall at Masen school, and in front of all these parents much less. "Excuse me, Bella?" I turned around and saw a beautiful woman with dark skin and dark hair. She looked much like Leah and Sue from her looks. "Yes, can I help you?"
She gave me a soft smile as she introduced herself. "My name is Rachel, I'm the twins mom! I wanted to apologize that we couldn't make it to Masen birthday, we have been out of town and just got back in late Saturday night" I was quite surprised to hear a strong Australian accent, especially here in Washington of all places. But what truly surprised me more was that the twins had bright red hair and striking blue eyes. The twins dad, Lee he had darker looks like my father, the black hair and brown eyes. I just figured mom must have been a blonde or a redhead the same, but genetics are a funny thing.
"Oh it's so nice to meet you! And please don't apologize we completely understand. Masen loved the gifts you guys gave him, he has been playing with the legos non stop!"
"Henry and Faye, went straight to the legos when I took them to the shops, both yelling that they were his favorite and he needed the big bin just like they had at our home"
"He has a lot of Lego sets, but I had no idea that you could get a bin of two thousand legos, even me and his dad have found ourselves playing along side of him. Are the twins your first?" I asked.
"Um no they have a sixteen year old big brother, I had TJ when I had just turned eighteen. When I married Lee we adopted our twins from Russia, I had an to have a surgery to remove my uterus from a car accident when TJ was three, so I sadly can not carry anymore children"
"Oh I'm sorry to hear that. I had Masen when I was nineteen and it wasn't planned in the slightest, but he has been my greatest blessing in my life"
"That's how my TJ is to me. I couldn't imagine not having him in my life today. We must have you all over for dinner sometime. All the twin do is talk about your son and how fun he is, they haven't had the easiest time making friends, they like to stick together and don't really let people in their little circle, but your son they just seemed to click with!" I smiled wide. Masen just had that presence about him that made him nice to be around. His smile and the way he was around other, just drew people in. He is the best kid in the world, but of course i didn't say it like that to Rachel.
"He is pretty awesome, Masen had a hard time at his last school, which was a surprise for him, he is usually very easy at making friends. That school just wasn't for us and he is definitely much happier here at greyhound." Our conversation was cut short as the door opened and the first three to four class came running out. How pick up works here is. If the parents are comfortable the three to four class can go outside for pickups and the parents will need to be on the side of the school by the playground.
If you are not comfortable with that, just sign the paper and you can go inside and pick them up from their classroom, same with any child under the age of three. Preschoolers come out of the same door after the three to four year olds just not to get it mixed up. Now the kindergarten, they have to line up and do the regular car pick ups to prepare them for when they are going to a grade school and will always do car pickups. We started out picking up Masen from his classroom, but he actually asked us if we could let him walk out with his friends, like we would ever say no to that.
One by one all of the students came flooding out of the school ready to see moms and dads. Masen came out with his little group around him. Sarah was clinging to his arm while Henry and Faye stood on the other side of him, their blues eyes searching for their own parents. Masen soon spotted me leaning against the pole and rushed over, leaving his little shadow completely heartbroken.
"Mommy!" Masen rushed forward, but at the last second he came to a complete standstill a foot in front of me and slowly walked the rest of the way, wrapping his arms around my waist. "Hi honey! Did you have a good day?" He nodded, keeping his face pressed against my stomach, he nodded and mumbled something I couldn't quite make out. "What was that baby?" I ran my fingers through his hair as he looked up at me.
"I had a good day Mama, today we had music and I love that!" Smiled down at him, I took his backpack and his hand. Steadying myself before turning to Rachel. "It was nice to meet you, we will have to set up a playdate for these guys sometime" Rachel nodded, looking down at her twins who were nodding their heads in agreement, both looking very excited at the possibility of seeing Masen outside of school.
"Most definitely! Tomorrow I will bring my contact information so we can set up a date" The kids gave their last goodbyes for today and me and Masen made our way to the car, walking very slowly with Mase eyeing me the whole way, as if I would fall and break before his eyes.
Esme was standing outside her car waiting for us. She kindly helped me back into the car, before she put my son in his car seat and we were on our way back home. Alice was already in my driveway sitting in her car and nursing Kimberly. I felt bad she was waiting, but she must have gotten here early, as we were not late at all getting home. "Mommy, can I watch a movie before I do my chores?"
"I can't see why not baby. As long as you promise to get that room cleaned up as soon as the movie ends. Its gotten way to messy and needs to be taken care of, Masen" He nodded, quickly unbuckling his seatbelt trying to get inside as fast as he could. He is still going to have to wait on me to get up there and unlock the door, so there is little reason to be rushing.
Once we got inside Esme took Kimberly from Alice, so she could burp her and see if she wanted a little nap. We brought Masen's old crib back out from the garage and set it up in the spare bedroom. Since Alice has been spending more time at our house, we wanted Kimmy to have a comfortable place to sleep and she is used to taking her naps in a crib at home.
Alice immediately pushed me into my bathroom having me shower and shave everything, stating that I would be wearing a dress and I would want to be shiny and hairless. This is the first date, Edward and I have been on since before the accident and I was actually a bit nervous. We haven't really had a moment alone in quite sometime, plus my doctor had given me the go ahead for sex at my last appointment. I have been waiting for the right time to tell Edward, but we have been so busy, I just never had the opportunity.
"Jasper wants another baby" Alice said out of nowhere. I peeked my head out of the shower and stared at her in disbelief. "Already! Kimberly is only seven months old for goodness sake" Allie laughed, shaking her head. "That's exactly what I said Bella! I mean Kimberly was a miracle baby in the first place." She paused, sighing as she thought though her words.
"I'm not even sure if we can have another baby naturally, She happened right when we needed her. Even if we didn't realize that our life wasn't complete without her, maybe that's when we will have our next baby. They will come to us when it's time. Besides I want to enjoy, Kimberly for a little while longer, before we think about having another baby"
"Have you talk to Jasper about this?" Turning off the water, I reached for my towel and wrapped it around me and pushed the shower curtain back. Alice stood leaning against the counter, my bathroom looked like a Sephora threw up in it. Allie had set up all her makeup and beauty products, all ready to play Bella Barbie.
"Of course, I mean kind of. We get on the subject about it and I try to explain how I feel about having another baby, but we always get on the topic of something else or babygirl needs me and our conversation come to an end. Life has been crazy with one baby, I couldn't imagine adding another one so soon"
"Maybe one night, Edward and I can return the favor of all the babysitting you guys have done for us and take Kimmy bear off your hands for the night. That way you two can have a nice date and talk about all this without the distraction of being new parents or just the hustle and bustle of everyday life" She rushed over and gave me a tight hug, I'm sure getting her arms all wet in the process.
"Oh Bella! That would be so perfect, if you guys would do that for us. We haven't been on a date in months. Between the accident and then Jaspers long work hours the time has never come up. But I'm doing to make it happen. Because you're right, we need to talk this through and get it all worked out." Kimberly let out a cry from the next room, effectively ending our conversation short. Alice told me to put on my undergarments and my robe while she went to check on the baby.
I took my time coving my body in my favorite lotion, wanting to be nice and smooth for Edward tonight. I knew for a fact that he also loved this fragrance and it seemed to drive him wild when I would wear this lotion and my favorite perfume together. Alice soon came back and we got to work on getting me all dolled up for my big date! We put on a very light amount of makeup, Alice did a dark smoky eye, whatever that is. But she said that it would help my eyes pop and I guess that was a good thing?
Alice picked out a beautiful and very tight black dress. It was long floor length dress that slightly dragged behind me. There was a slit in the dress so that my legs peeked out when I walked. I had lost a lot of weight since the accident, but thankfully i didn't look like skin and bones tonight. This dress showed the little curves I had left and I actually felt really pretty for the first time in ages.
"Oh Alice! Thank you, I actually look like myself again" She smiled and leaned her chin on my shoulder looking at the two of us in the mirror. "You have always looked beautiful Bella, no matter what has happened in the past few months" I squeeze the arms that was wrapped around my waist. "Thank you Allie cat, I don't know how I ever got ready before you!" Alice scoffed and rolled her eyes.
"I've seen your high school picture Bella, you were barely hanging on and looked like you were wearing your brothers hand me downs." I rolled my eyes, I certainly wasn't going to tell her that it was most of Charlie's old clothes that I would steal. They were comfortable and big, anything that I could hide behind, that's what I was going to pick. "Alright well Edward is waiting on you and from how my boobs are feeling, Lee,Lee is waiting on me!"
She looped her arm through mine and helped me out into the living room. I will say the large walking boot definitely took away a lot from the dress, but it is what it is. As if on que Kimmy started whining from Edward's arms as soon as she smelled Alice, her blue grey eyes searched the room for her mother, her whines starting to become real cries. "Mommy's right here!" Edward turned around, his mouth dropped open as his eyes started at my bare leg trailing up and coming to a rest on my eyes.
"Bella.." His voice was just barely even a whisper. Without taking his eyes off me, he handed his sister the fussy baby. He stood in front of me almost if he was just taking it all in. Then he smiled. A big wide smile that took over his entire face. "You looks so beautiful, my princess" Edward reached up and rubbed my cheek, before cupping it and pulling me in for a kiss.
"Oh mommy you really do look like a princess!" Masen exclaimed! Edward pulled back giving me another smile. "Yes She does, doesn't she! A very beautiful princess" Masen ran up and wrapped his arms around our legs and squeezed us all together for a moment, before Edward leaned down and picked Masen up, that way we could have one big family hug.
"Promise not to stay out too long?" I wonder if Masen will always hate when we have to leave him behind. It doesn't matter if we are just going right up the road, Masen will be sad and worried if we are leaving. "You will most likely be in bed when we get home, but it shouldn't be super late baby" I told him, brushing his hair back from his eyes. He really needs a hair cut.
"Ok mommy, but you have to come and give me my hug and kiss when you get home, even if I am sleeping!" He gave Edward a pointed looking, knowing him well enough, to know that Edward would never disturb Masen when he was sleeping, always adamant that he needed his rest. "I will, I promise! Gosh just trying to make sure you get a full nights rest and I'm the bad guy" Masen giggled, patting Edward on the cheek.
"It's ok daddy, I still love you" I smiled widely, as I did every time Masen called Edward daddy! It warmed my heart each time and it seemed to do the same for Edward. Ever since Masen told us his birthday wish, he has called Edward dad or daddy since. Edward has fully stepped into the father role and has looked rather sexy doing it. "I love you too buddy. Now you be good for Nana and we will be back soon"
With one last hug and kiss we were on our way to the mystery date. I was very excited to find out where we were going. "Can I at least get a hint Edward?" He smiled and shook his head. "Nope! You will have to wait to find out my love" He winked at me, pulling my hand into his lap.
Between the busy traffic of a Friday night and the fact that we were going to Seattle, it took us over an hour to get to our destination, but we soon pulled up to Seattle's chihuly garden! This place was a dream of mine and I've wanted to go since they opened the place. "Edward! We're going to chihuly garden! Oh my goodness I'm so excited" I practically squealed out of excitement, I was bouncing in my seat, ready to jump out of this car if we didn't park soon.
Surprisingly the car park was practically empty, only a few cars which was kind of throwing me off, as this place stays busy no matter what time or day of the week. "I'm glad you are excited, a little birdie might have told me, how much you have wanted to come here" Alice. She remembers everything! I swear.
"I have! They have some beautiful handmade glass sculptures and it's all just such beautiful work."
"It's quite pretty, had to jump through quite a few hoops to make this happen. But I wanted you to have the best" Leaning over the middle console, I pulled his face down to mine and gave him a long hard kiss. He never fails to give us the best dates ever. He seems a little nervous tonight. He couldn't look at me for very long, before he turned away, his adams apple bobbing as he swallowed thickly.
"Are you alright baby?" He nodded, smiling at me. "Yeah I'm great!" I looked at him for a moment, but ended up letting it go and waiting for Edward to come around to my door. Once he did, he held his hand out helping me out of the car, I was still a little wobbly on my leg, but I was finally getting somewhere.
The walk inside the building was just beautiful, there was flowers everywhere, and the tress were lined with fairy lights, everything was just so beautiful! Like it was straight out of a fairy tale. "This is just breathtaking!" I looked up turning around in circles trying to take it all in.
"It's alright" I looked over at Edward, seeing his focus was on me rather than the garden. "But I wouldn't say breathtaking, not with you standing here in comparison" I rolled my eyes, coming to stand in front of him again. "Come on, let's go and see what this place is all about"
Edward POV
This is the moment I have been waiting for. I have hated lying to Bella, but staying late at work keeps me away from her and if I'm with her for too long l will spill the beans about tonight and I have been working so hard to get here! So many phone calls, so many plans and way to much money, has gone into this night. I wanted it to be perfect, it had to be perfect. We will remember tonight forever.
When we pulled up to Chihuly Garden, Bella's breath hitched as she took it all in. Alice told me that Bella had always wanted to go here, but it's pretty pricey and Masen is still too young to enjoy a place like this, plus he's a clumsy little thing and I could just see him accidentally breaking something in here.
Slowly we got inside, getting our tickets and made our way through, looking at all the rooms filled with lights and flowers, it was honestly sort of trippy and I could see why Bella has wanted to come here so badly. "Masen, would love this" Bella said moving her eyes to mine. She looked so pretty tonight, I wanted to just kiss her senseless, amongst a few other things. "He would. We need to bring him sometime, maybe when he's a bit older" She smiled "that would be fun"
As we passed through each room, my anxiety kicked up, I had felt nervous all night, so much so that even Bella asked me if something was wrong. I have seen her eyeing me when she thought I was looking. She could tell something was up, I wasn't sure how I was going to do this without her figuring it out. I need to be cool, I'm cool. Everything will work out and go to plan.
"Edward, this is...it's just out of this world" Bella said, taking in the room. The last room was high ceilings that arched as they met. The whole room was all glass with floating lanterns all around us. Bella stood in the middle of the room, looking her head up and spinning around. I just stood there, taking her in. She was so beautiful, in fact beautiful didn't seem to cover that, she was like a goddess and this dress seemed to hug each curve on her body, I could help but to pull out my phone and snap a picture of her. Tonight I will ask her to be mine forever, please god let her say yes.
Bella turned away from me to look at the glass art, she was taking so fast about this certain piece. Clearly very excited to get the chance to see the sculpture in person. With her back to me, I took the opportunity and came up, behind her getting down on one knee, taking a deep breathz "Thank you so much for bringing me here Edwar-" her words cut short in her throat, as she turned around. Her hand reached up coving her mouth, tears already pooling in big brown eyes.
I reached behind me and pulled the ring box out of my pocket, my hands were shaking, so I took in more lung fulls of air trying to calm myself down some. "Bella the day you moved to port angeles, my life changed for the better. You have brought so much light to my life and my soul. You have very quickly become, my best friend, my lover and my whole world. You also brought me my son, who I love so deeply and I don't know what I would do without the two of you."
I took yet another deep breath and opened the box, finally letting her see the ring me and our son deigned just for her. Bella gasped again, the tears started spilling over her cheeks. "Isabella Swan, I promise to love you every moment forever. Would you do me the extraordinary honor of marrying me?" Bella carefully dropped down on her knees in front of me, throwing her arms around my neck and squeezing the air out of me, but I gladly accepted that hug.
"Oh Edward! Yes! A thousand, millions times yes! Yes, yes, yes!" I smashed my lips against her, pushing everything I felt into this kiss. My future wife! She said yes!
Till next time~Jade
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