A/N: Sorry for the slight delay in a upload. Unfortunately I came down with Covid! This was the first time ever having it, so it definitely hit me like a truck! Very much on the mend, and have enough energy to get back to editing, writing and uploading chapters. I'm aiming for 1-2 chapters a week! :)
She melts into his kiss, smiling against his lips, one hand going up to his hair. she sighs happily, when they part and Edward rests his forehead on hers.
"How about we open some presents? I got somethingspecial for you" she smiles.
Edward smiles, his eyes lighting up with curiosity. "Something special, huh? Now you've got me intrigued," he chuckles softly, still resting his forehead against hers.
Bella pulls back slightly, her hand sliding down from his hair to take his hand. "Come on, then. Let's do it now," she says excitedly, tugging him gently toward the living room where the small Christmas tree stands, twinkling with fairy lights.
They sit down together in front of the tree, and Bella reaches under the branches to grab the first gift she had got him , something she had ordered for him weeks ago. It was wrapped neatly in festive paper, with a small bow on top.
"Here you go," she says with a smile, handing it to him. "Merry Christmas, Edward."
Edward's eyes soften as he takes the present from her, looking at it for a moment before turning his attention back to her. "You didn't have to get me anything, Bella," he says softly, though the gratitude in his voice is unmistakable.
"I wanted to," she replies, her smile warm. "Now open it!"
Edward tears the wrapping paper carefully, revealing a small, beautifully crafted leather journal with his initials embossed on the cover. Inside, there was a handwritten note from Bella tucked into the first page.
He reads the note quietly, a smile spreading across his face as he finishes. "Bella, this is... perfect," he says, his voice thick with emotion. "Thank you. I've been meaning to keep a journal of everything that's happened—our time together, the deployments... everything."
Bella beams, feeling a sense of relief that he liked her gift. "I thought it would be something you could take with you, wherever you go. And write down all your thoughts, memories... maybe even letters to me," she adds softly.
Edward leans in and kisses her again, this time slower and deeper, filled with emotion. "I love it, Bella. And I love you."
Her heart flutters at his words, and she whispers, "I love you too, Edward."
As they part, she smiles. "But that wasn't the special gift," she smiles. And she heads towards the sideboard, to retrieve the wrapped up Pocket Watch that she had hid.
"You got me something else?" He says surprised.
Edward watches Bella with a mix of curiosity and anticipation as she retrieves a wrapped package from the sideboard. He sits back on the floor in front of the tree, a warm smile on his face, waiting to see what the special gift might be.
Bella returns with the small, elegantly wrapped box, placing it gently in his lap. "This is something I found and thought of you instantly," she says, her eyes twinkling with excitement.
Edward carefully unwraps the box, revealing an antique pocket watch with intricate engravings. His eyes widen as he takes in the craftsmanship. He carefully lifts the watch from the box, admiring its elegant design. The watch's face is adorned with delicate details, and the chain is sturdy and refined.
Bella watches him, her heart swelling with happiness as she sees his reaction. "I know how much you love history and classic items," she explains softly. "I thought this might be a nice way to keep track of time, especially when you're away."
Edward looks up at her, his eyes shining with emotion. "Bella, this is incredible. Thank you so much. It's beautiful," he says, his voice filled with appreciation.
Bella smiles, feeling a sense of joy from his reaction. "I'm glad you like it. I wanted it to be something you could carry with you, something that would remind you of me and our time together."
Edward carefully places the watch back in its box, leaning in to kiss her gently. "I'll treasure it always," he says softly. "And I'll think of you every time I look at it."
They share a moment of quiet, their eyes locked and their hands intertwined, savouring the joy of the season and the deep connection they share.
"I thought that you could put the picture of us in it that we took yesterday, and set the time for my timezone. So you'll always know what time it is where your home is, and wherever you are, you'll know that I'll always be thinking of you" she says softly, looking into his eyes.
Edward's eyes soften as he listens to Bella's words, his heart full of emotion. He imagines the picture of them inside. The thought of having a piece of her with him, wherever he goes, is incredibly touching.
"That's such a thoughtful idea, Bella," he says, his voice filled with gratitude. "I love it. I'll definitely put a picture of us in here and set the time to match yours. It'll be a constant reminder of home and you."
Bella smiles warmly, her heart swelling at his response. "I'm glad you like it. It makes me happy to know you'll have a little piece of me with you."
Edward leans in and kisses her tenderly, his hand cupping her cheek. "Thank you for making this Christmas so special. I don't think I've ever felt this loved and appreciated."
Bella blushes, her eyes shining. "It's my pleasure, Edward. Being with you is the best gift I could ever ask for."
They share a quiet moment together, savouring the warmth and love between them. The pocket watch, with its special meaning, becomes a symbol of their bond and the memories they've created together.
"So.. did you say you had something for me?" Bella giggles. "You really didn't have to get me anything. You being here is the greatest present I could ever have" she says lovingly.
Edward chuckles softly, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Well, I couldn't let you have all the fun with gifts, could I?" he says, reaching into his pocket.
He pulls out a small, neatly wrapped box and hands it to Bella with a smile. "I wanted to give you something special too. I hope you like it."
Bella takes the box with a curious smile, her fingers gently unwrapping the paper. As she opens the box, she finds a delicate silver necklace with a small heart-shaped locket. The locket is engraved with intricate patterns and has a small opening where a tiny photo could be placed.
Bella's eyes widen in surprise and delight. "Edward, it's beautiful!" she exclaims, touching the necklace with awe.
"I thought it would be nice for you to have something that you can wear close to your heart," Edward says softly. "You can put a picture of us in there, or whatever you like. It's up to you."
Bella's heart swells with emotion, and she reaches out to hug him tightly. "Thank you, Edward. This means so much to me. I'll cherish it always."
Edward holds her close, resting his chin on the top of her head. "I'm glad you like it. Merry Christmas, Bella."
"Merry Christmas, Edward," she replies, pulling back slightly to look at him with a warm smile. "This day just keeps getting better".
After Edward helped her put on the locket, she touched the silver chain around her neck, relishing how it felt around her neck, she then smiled up at him.
"Now how about we start cooking the turkey? It should be perfectly brined now" she smiles up at him, her eyes full of excitement.
Edward grins, nodding enthusiastically. "Sounds like a plan! Let's get this Christmas feast started."
They head to the kitchen together, Bella pulling the brined turkey from the fridge. She placed it on the counter, ready to prepare it for roasting. Edward joins her, washing his hands and prepping the ingredients they'll need.
As Bella begins to season and prepare the turkey, she explains her process with excitement. "I'll stuff it with some herbs and lemons to keep it flavorful. We'll roast it slowly to make sure it's juicy."
Edward helps by chopping vegetables and getting the roasting pan ready. "I'm looking forward to tasting it. You've made everything so special already."
Bella smiles as she works. "It's been a wonderful day so far, and it's just getting started. I'm really glad we're doing this together."
They work side by side, the kitchen filled with the delightful aroma of the fresh herbs and vegetables being prepared and the cheerful chatter of Christmas. It was a cosy and festive atmosphere, and they both enjoyed the process of preparing their holiday meal.
Once the turkey is safely in the oven and the vegetables are prepped to be put on a bit later, Bella hangs up her apron on.a hook in the kitchen. "Now how about we have showers and dress up nicely? I bought this new dress a while a ago and really want to wear it for today" she grins.
Edward smiles, nodding in agreement. "That sounds like a great idea. I'll get ready too. I'm looking forward to seeing you in your dress."
They both head to the bathroom to freshen up. Bella takes a quick, invigorating shower, enjoying the warmth and relaxation. Edward then goes to take his shower, and she puts on her new dress, a classic red piece that makes her feel elegant and festive. As she applies her makeup and styles her hair up in a pretty bun with some pins and she glances at her reflection with satisfaction.
Edward emerges from the bathroom in a smart, festive outfit, a green sweater and tan chinos, looking dashing and ready for the occasion. When they meet again in the living room, he takes a moment to appreciate how stunning Bella looks. "You look amazing, Bella. That dress is perfect."
Bella blushes and twirls slightly, letting him see the full effect. "Thank you, Edward. You look great too. I'm glad we're dressing up for Christmas."
They share a warm smile, both feeling excited for the evening's festivities. The turkey was slowly roasting, and Bella's apartment was filled with the scent of the holiday meal, which added to the festive atmosphere that was already in full effect.