The sky above Forks burned in hues of gold and lavender as the Cullen family estate filled with laughter and warmth. The sprawling lawn, dotted with fairy lights and decorated tables, was alive with a vibrant energy. This was no ordinary evening—it was a celebration of growth, of milestones, and of love.
Everyone had gathered for the occasion: the Cullens, the New Moon Pack, and even the former Volturi, now integral members of their tight-knit community. It was a moment to honor Isabella, Elliot, Juliette, and Nathaniel, who were leaving for college the next day—a collective leap into adulthood that marked the beginning of a new chapter for their family.
Bella stood at the center of it all, her presence as commanding as ever. Clad in an elegant yet simple dress, she watched the gathering unfold with a mix of pride and nostalgia. Over the years, she had grown into her role as Alpha of the New Moon Pack, a position she held with grace and strength. Under her leadership, the pack had flourished. New wolves and hybrids had joined their ranks, creating a powerful and harmonious community that bridged the divide between species.
Beside her, Edward leaned in, his hand brushing hers. Their bond had only deepened over time, weathering challenges and emerging stronger. He glanced at her, his golden eyes alight with admiration. "You've built something incredible here," he murmured, his voice low and affectionate.
Bella smiled softly. "We did this together."
Across the yard, Isabella and Elliot, now 18 and radiant with the energy of youth, were locked in a playful race in their wolf forms. Their sleek, powerful bodies moved in sync as they weaved through the trees, their laughter echoing in the air. For so long, they had struggled to access their wolf sides, but now they embraced their dual heritage with pride. Members of the pack cheered them on, with Leah's six-year-old child clapping and bouncing excitedly.
Leah stood nearby, watching her child with a rare, soft smile. She had found her peace in motherhood, and seeing her child accepted and loved by the pack brought her a sense of fulfillment she hadn't thought possible years ago.
Juliette and Nathaniel were mingling with the crowd, their presence magnetic. Rosalie and Emmett had raised them into confident, capable young adults. Juliette's sharp wit and Nathaniel's quiet strength made them a perfect pair—both inseparable and independent. They carried the love and lessons of their family with them, ready to forge their paths in the world.
As the evening deepened, Carlisle stood to address the crowd. His calm, authoritative voice silenced the chatter.
"We gather tonight not just to celebrate these four remarkable young people," he began, gesturing toward Isabella, Elliot, Juliette, and Nathaniel, "but to reflect on the journey we've all taken to get here. This family—this community—has faced trials that could have torn us apart. Instead, we've grown stronger. We've proven that love, loyalty, and understanding can overcome even the greatest of divides."
Esme, standing beside him, added, "To see all of you here, together, is a dream we never thought possible. Thank you for being a part of this journey."
The crowd raised their glasses—or in the case of the wolves, their fists—and cheers erupted into the night.
As the night drew to a close, the focus shifted to the young adults preparing to leave. Isabella, Elliot, Juliette, and Nathaniel stood together, their expressions a mix of excitement and apprehension. Around them, family and friends offered words of encouragement and advice.
Rosalie, as always, was the first to step forward, pulling Juliette into a tight hug. "You're going to be amazing," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "But don't forget to call—and don't let Nathaniel boss you around."
Juliette laughed softly, blinking back tears. "I won't, Mom. I promise."
Emmett, never one to miss a moment of levity, ruffled Nathaniel's hair. "You watch out for her, big guy. And don't scare off too many humans with all your charm."
Nathaniel smirked, but his quiet gratitude shone through. "I'll take care of her. Don't worry."
Rosalie's gaze softened as she hugged Nathaniel. "You're both so ready for this. Just remember we're always here for you."
Bella approached her children next. She wrapped Isabella in a fierce hug, her voice trembling. "You've grown into such an incredible woman. Be proud of who you are, no matter where life takes you."
"I will, Mom," Isabella replied, her voice cracking. "I love you."
Next was Elliot, whose usual playful demeanor faltered as he hugged Bella tightly. "Take care of yourself, ya know," she said, echoing her words from his childhood.
"You take care of Dad for me," Elliot joked, though his voice wavered. "I love you, too."
Edward stepped forward to embrace each of them, his own words quiet but heartfelt. "We'll always be here when you need us. Remember, you'll never walk alone."
The next morning, the car was packed, and it was time for the children to leave. Isabella, Elliot, Juliette, and Nathaniel stood near the car, the weight of the moment sinking in.
Rosalie approached Juliette and Nathaniel first. She hugged them both, one arm around each. "You two are everything I dreamed of. You're strong, and you're ready—but I'll still miss you every second."
Emmett joined, pulling them into a bear hug. "We're proud of you. Now go show the world what Cullens are made of."
Bella and Edward stepped toward Isabella and Elliot. Bella hugged Isabella tightly. "I'll miss you so much," she whispered, her voice cracking. "But I know you'll do great things."
Isabella nodded, tears streaming down her face. "I'll make you proud."
Edward hugged Elliot, his voice filled with emotion. "I'm so proud of who you've become. Remember, we'll always be just a phone call away."
As the four young adults climbed into the car and waved goodbye, their parents stood together, watching until the car disappeared down the road. Bella's hand tightened around Edward's, tears slipping down her cheeks.
"They're ready," Edward said softly.
Bella nodded, though her voice broke. "I know. But I'll miss them so much."
"They'll come back," Edward said, pulling her into his arms. "And when they do, we'll be here, just as strong as we are now."
Together, they turned back to their family, the sounds of laughter and life surrounding them. The Cullens had built something extraordinary—a legacy that would live on in every moment like this.