As they eat, Bella reaches across the table and squeezes his hand. "I love you" she says softly, her eyes twinkling.
Edward looks into Bella's eyes, his heart swelling with emotion. He gently squeezes her hand back. "I love you too, Bella. This Christmas, and every day with you, is the best gift I could ask for."
They share a tender smile, their connection deepened by the intimacy of the moment. The warmth of their love adds a special glow to the Christmas evening, making the celebration even more meaningful.
"Have you texted your parents Merry Christmas? Or heard from them?" She smiles. "Mine texted me early this morning. They said they were having lobster for their starter before Christmas dinner on the cruise. They said we could video call later, if you want to? I got to see your parents yesterday and now you can see my dad, stepmom and step siblings today if you'd like" she grins.
Edward nods, his face lighting up. "I texted them Merry Christmas this morning, and they sent their love. I'd love to do a video call later. It'll be nice to see your family and catch up."
He gives Bella's hand a reassuring squeeze. "It's wonderful that we can share this holiday with both our families, even if it's just through a screen. Let's set it up for later today and enjoy the rest of our Christmas."
They continue their meal, savouring the festive spirit and eagerly anticipating the video call that will bring their loved ones even closer.
After finishing the meal, Bella and Edward clear the table together, their movements in sync as they tidy up the kitchen. With everything cleaned up, Bella pulls out her phone and sets up a time for the video call with her dad, Sue, and her step-siblings. Edward stands beside her, smiling warmly as they confirm the time.
Once the call is set, Bella leans against Edward, wrapping her arms around his waist. "I can't wait for them to meet you. My dad's been so curious about you," she chuckles.
Edward grins and presses a kiss to the top of her head. "I'll make sure to be on my best behaviour. It's important to me that your family likes me."
"They will," Bella reassures him softly, squeezing his hand. "Just be yourself. That's more than enough."
They sit down on the couch, settling in for the video call. When Bella's phone rings, her face lights up as she answers, and soon enough, her dad, Sue, and her step-siblings appear on the screen. Everyone exchanges warm greetings, and Bella introduces Edward officially.
"Hey, Dad! Sue! Merry Christmas! And this is Edward," Bella says, beaming as she glances at Edward.
Her dad nods in approval through the screen, smiling. "Merry Christmas, Bella. Edward, it's nice to finally meet you. I've heard a lot of good things."
Sue chimes in with a warm smile, "Yes, we've been eager to meet the man who makes Bella so happy."
Edward smiles back, a bit bashful but relaxed. "Merry Christmas. It's an honour to meet you all. Bella spoke very highly of you all"
The call flows naturally, with light banter, stories from the cruise, and plenty of laughter, as Bella's family and Edward hit it off.
As the call goes on, Bella's dad shares a few stories from their cruise, mentioning how strange it feels for him to be away from work for the holidays. "I keep thinking someone's going to call me for an emergency, but Sue made sure my phone's off and we are in the middle of the sea," he laughs, shooting Sue a playful glance.
Sue adds, "It's about time he had a break, though! We're loving the cruise. You two should come with us next time. The views are stunning, and the food is amazing."
Bella smiles at the thought. "That sounds like a great idea! Maybe next year?"
Edward nods in agreement. "It would be nice. I think I'd enjoy seeing Bella on a cruise, relaxing for a change," he teases, giving her a gentle nudge.
Bella's step-siblings, Leah and Seth, jump in with their own stories about the cruise activities, talking about games, new friends they've made, and the giant Christmas tree on the ship. Bella laughs, clearly enjoying hearing how much fun they're having.
After a while, her dad turns the conversation toward Edward. "So, Edward, tell me, what are your plans now that you're back on leave? Are you sticking around for a bit?"
Edward glances at Bella and then back at the screen, his tone warm but sincere. "Yes, I'll be here through the holidays with Bella. Then, it's back to duty. We've got a few things planned while I'm here, just making the most of the time we have together."
Bella's dad nods approvingly, his expression softening. "Well, it's great that you're here. Bella looks really happy, and that makes all the difference."
The call winds down after a while, with everyone exchanging holiday wishes again. Bella and Edward wave goodbye as the screen goes dark.
Bella looks up at Edward, her eyes shining with happiness. "I think they really liked you."
Edward smiles, his hand gently cupping her cheek. "I hope so. It was important to me. I can see why they mean so much to you."
Bella leans into his touch, smiling softly. "They do. And now, you do too."
They sit there for a moment, just holding each other, enjoying the quiet warmth of the moment.
"Do you want to call your parents soon? Did they say they would be free today?" She says softly. "I've been thinking, maybe the both of us could drive down on the 28th and spend New years with them?" She smiles up at Edward, hoping he liked the idea. "We could spend the night at a hotel halfway through, so it would help ease up the travel. So arriving the 29th at your parents"
Edward's eyes light up at Bella's suggestion. "That sounds perfect," he says with a smile. "I was thinking about how to split the time while I'm here, and that way, we get to enjoy both Christmas here and then New Year's with my parents. I love the idea of the road trip, too."
He reaches for his phone. "I'll check with them about the call. I'm sure they'll be thrilled about New Year's. They'd love to see us both."
Bella beams at his excitement. "I'm glad you like it. It'll be a nice way to celebrate with everyone we care about."
Edward glances at his phone. "Looks like they'll be free to talk in about an hour. That should give us time to relax a little before we call them."
Bella leans against him, feeling content. "I'm really looking forward to meeting them in person. And spending New Year's together sounds like the perfect way to end the year."
Edward smiles, wrapping his arm around her. "I couldn't agree more. It's going to be a great start to the new year—together."