The Grim: Book 2: Chapter 1

7AM – Bella's Point of View

"Hey, you better not be still sleeping!" A voice called out, partially muffled through the door to my bedroom. Next a flurry of knocking. "Bella, we have a lot to do, please tell me you are ready to go."

I groaned, letting my arms stretch up over my head, twisting slightly. For a moment, I considered not answering at all. I buried myself a little deeper into the soft sheets. "Go away, give me like… five more minutes."

There was the briefest pause before I heard the door come swinging open. And just like that, my peace was completely destroyed. In walked Ana, Katlyn, and Alice. Ana lunged forward, ripping my blankets off me with a disapproving look.

"No more sleeping, we are already behind schedule. I can't believe you are actually trying to sleep in. Today, of all days Bella. Really? You're going to be married in the next five hours." Ana grumbled, pulling at my arm.

Again I groaned, allowing Ana to pull me along. I wiped at my face, unbothered by the sudden audience. At this point, I was used to these three constantly around. It's been this way for the past week. As my bridesmaids, they have been working tirelessly to organize the wedding down to most miner detail.

Katlyn moved to help me carefully to my feet, adjusting my robe to cover my slightly exposed stomach. The sheer size of me, was staggering at this point. There would be no hiding the fact that I was very pregnant. She offered me a tender smile. "Are you hungry? We are meeting up with Esme and the twins for brunch. Then straight to your dress fitting, hair and nails."

"Don't forget our pre-wedding spa treatment." Alice said with a wide smirk. She ran her hand through her blonde curls. "Alyssa and Olivia will be tagging along for that. Hope you don't mind."

"I don't mind at all." I said with an easy smile. "I'm guessing Edward is back in town? How did his little bachelor party?" Watching as Ana went rummaging through my closet. Katlyn kept an arm around me, as she helped me into the bathroom. Since my pregnancy has progressed so far, my stomach is so large that it affects my center-of-gravity. I was already a bit clumsy at times. So, when Katlyn was around, she was always keeping me steady. In my opinion, I felt she was a bit overly concerned. But I wasn't about to complain. It was nice. I never thought I'd have a friend like her. I felt truly blessed. Alice lingered behind, gathering some things we would need to take along with us for the day.

"Yeah, I received a late-night drunk text from Jasper, confirming they are back in Boswell. By the sounds of it, they had a great time." Katlyn said rolling her eyes as she started running the shower. She busily straightened up the bathroom.

I was feeling slightly insecure, I didn't know what those boys got into last night. I just hoped that strippers weren't involved. I trusted Edward of course. It was the rest of them that I didn't trust. Jacob, Emmett and Jasper were a rowdy bunch, without alcohol being involved. There was a certainty that none of them would be divulging any details.

Shaking off those unsettling thoughts, I removed my ropes and stepped into the warm water. Allowing it to hit my face. I sighed heavily, calming myself. Hopefully this will be enough to keep me awake. I didn't get the best sleep last night. I suppose it was just pre-wedding jitters.

"Try to make it a quick shower Bell, I'll leave your clothes in here. If you need me, just call, okay?" Katlyn said on her way out of the bathroom.

"Okay," I responded, keeping my eyes closed as I washed up. My thoughts were a mess at the moment. There was so much going on. And so much has happened over the last few months.

When Emmett was hurt, it really took a toll on everyone. He isolated himself for a while, as he recovered. Only letting Edward come in to visit once in a while. He was extremely sensitive about his appearance now. His conflict with Lux left him badly scarred, both on the outside and the inside. He wasn't the same Emmett that I knew. He was always a sensitive man, but now, he was more hardened. Not as outgoing, or immature. He didn't go out of his way to talk… to anyone. I was surprised to hear that he even went with the group out of the city for Edward's party.

After the attack, Sulpicia and Aro went into hiding. They resigned from their position of power at Gallen and just disappeared without a trace. This puts us in an even worse position. We no longer knew where the enemy was. And with Lux involved, we wouldn't be able to tell 'friend' from 'foe'. They had the ability to completely change their physical appearance to be anyone. Needless to say, we had to put measures in place to tell we are truly speaking to the right person. A secret code. Only known to the trusted reapers of Boswell. Only those working in close consort with Edward against this new threat.

As I finished showering, I stepped out and wrapped the towel around me that Katlyn had left. In the mirror, I watched my reflection, taking note of the subtle changes. I've accumulated a little extra weight in my arms and face. Everything appeared a little more rounded. Just something that happens with pregnancy I suppose. Hopefully this wouldn't be permeant. I could feel a constant rolling and stretching sensation, as the twins began moving around. It was such a strange feeling, but it brought a sense of relief as well. As long as I could feel them moving, I felt confident that they were both alright. Katlyn left behind some clothing as well, something Ana had picked out. A simple white dress that fell to my knees. Nothing to fancy, and it was a maternity dress, so it fit my frame perfectly. There was plenty of room for my stomach, nothing felt too tight.

"Are you finished in there, come on, we are loading up the car." Ana said as she came walking into the bathroom without any hesitation. She eyed me with a content grin. "Good, it looks nice on you."

It was nice that Ana was excused from the academy for this past week to help with the wedding. With everything happening, I wasn't sure that I wanted her to be so far away from the rest of us. But Jacob was with her. And the grim graciously allowed Esme to begin working at the academy, so there was even more protection for Ana while she was there.

"Alright, let's get going then." I nodded, allowing her to take my hand and pull me along. As we walked, I glanced around the apartment. It was a little sad. The space was nearly empty. Every room stripped of all personal belongings. Furniture covered in sheets. Alice passed by us with a large amount of clothing from my closet. Ironically, this was my last day living here. The house that Edward and I were in the process of buying finally closed. We got the house. Edward received the keys two days ago. So, after our honeymoon, we would be moving in. A complete fresh start. New husband, new house, new babies on the way. Everything seemed to be happening at the same time. It was exciting, but a little anxiety-inducing as well.

Ana walked with an animated smile, staying close to my side as we made our way out of the apartment. Waiting outside was a limo, Stenton sat in the driver's seat with a pair of sunglasses on. As we approached, he offered me a wide smile.

"It's an honor, to be here on your special day ma'am, please be careful, watch your step. Master Edward will end my existence if something happens to you." He said with a tight chuckle.

"Nice to see you Stenton, it's been a while." I greeted him as Ana assisted me in the back of the limo. I was taken by surprise by all of this. I didn't know they rented a limo for this. It was my first time being in one. The backseat was so luxurious, with fine leather oversized seats and a bottle of champagne sitting in a gold bucket of ice in the center.

Alice held a glass up, already downing half of it in one gulp. Katlyn held out two glasses to me and Ana as we got in our seats. "No alcohol for you two, but I picked a nice mocktail drink. You like blackberry, right?"

"Yeah, I like blackberries." I nodded, taking the glass to take a small sip. It was very sweet, with hints of other honey and a hint of mint. It was delicious.

Ana made a face of disappointment; she took a few sips of her drink but kept eyeing the champagne. But thankfully, she didn't start begging for a sip, as she usually would be. Maybe she was going to be on her best behavior for today.

As Stenton began driving, everyone settled in. I watched peacefully out the window, as the others laughed, talking and drank. They seemed even more excited about today than me, if that was even possible. It felt like I hadn't seen Edward in a long time, he left for his party yesterday. It's the longest we have been apart since we began dating. It left me feeling a bit lonely, even as I am surrounded by my closest friends. I couldn't wait to see him.

"Are you alright Bella? You've been pretty quiet," Katlyn said, reaching over to lightly squeeze my shoulder.

"I'm perfectly fine, just have a lot on my mind." I said with an easy shrug. "Missing Edward a little." I admitted sheepishly.

"You'll see him soon enough, apparently that little boy was nothing but a doom and gloomy jerk all night." Alice said with a smirk. "All he did was whine about seeing you."

Katlyn and Ana giggle, exchanging looks at one another. "I told you they wouldn't have much fun. Eddie boy is a stick in the mud most of the time. Even more so when he isn't around Bella." Ana said.

"I'm sure they at least had a little fun…" I said with a chuckle. As much as the thought warmed my heart, that Edward was missing me as much as I missed him. I really was hoping he would enjoy himself a bit.

"They went to the casino, drank all night, Jacob mentioned some karaoke, midnight mini gold on the roof top of their hotel." Alice said, waving her hand with a snort. "That was about it, they didn't even have strippers. I'm honestly surprised."

That was a huge relief to hear. I wanted Edward to have a good time, without half naked women tossing themselves on him. It honestly would have bothered me a great deal. Especially when I looked like this. Huge, swollen and pregnant. I didn't feel the least bit sexy. It was hard not to feel insecure from time to time.

"Huh, I thought strippers was a tradition for them. Jacob said they had strippers when Edward married Tanya. And Jasper had them when he married Alice." Ana said with a raised brow.

Alice made a face at that, a dark look coming to her face. She muttered bitterly under her breath. But she didn't make a comment on that statement. Something told me she wasn't aware of the strippers Jasper had for his party. And it pissed her off a bit.

Katlyn shrugged her shoulders. "It's unfortunate to say, but those boys weren't always the nice gentleman they are today. They have changed a lot. They have grown up. They are taking things a bit more seriously. It's nice to see."

"It's hard to imagine Edward not being a gentleman…" I said with a raised brow. "I mean, he always had a bit of a temper. But other than that, he is the closest thing to perfect you could imagine."

"Well, she is right. Edward was the furthest thing from a gentleman. Just ask his exes. He treated them horribly. Like they were nothing but objects. Or tasks to check off a list. A distraction when he wanted it. Even when he married Tanya, it was all an act. He just wanted to get Esme worked up and upset with him." Alice said, chewing her lip. "When I heard he marked you… I actually pitied you at first."

"Seriously?" I glanced between her and Katlyn with uncertainty. "He has been nothing but wonderful. I couldn't ask for a better man."

Ana nodded with a slight smile. "I wouldn't say anything to that degree. In my eyes he is far from perfect. But Edward has been a great guy. Very caring and attentive. Probably the most trustworthy person I've ever met."

"I'm glad things have worked out so well. And that you are both so happy. I think you really have changed Edward, for the better." Katlyn smiled warmly. "I promise, we will work hard to keep it that way. Protect your happiness. No matter what enemies we face."

"Easier said then done. When you are going up against demons." Alice muttered, glancing away from the group of us with a hollow expression coming to her face. "It will take more than bold declarations."

The mention of demons created a tense atmosphere immediately within the space. Everyone was at a loss for words. There was a heaviness that fell over my shoulders. With everything that has happened, I almost forgot the situation we still faced.

"We do have a plan, don't we? If demons try crashing this wedding, right?" Ana asked with a frown.

"Of course, but there is no guarantee. It's the demon of lust. And they can change their appearance and gender. They could look like anyone. Right?" Alice replied with a snap. "We can enjoy ourselves today, but we can't let our guard down."

"I can't imagine they would try something today. Not with all of us in attendance. It would be too risky. If they are planning an attack, they would wait until we are all separated, to pick us off, one by one. Starting with the weakest." Katlyn speculated.

"There is going to be a lot of reapers in one place. It would be tempting, wouldn't it?"

"Perhaps, but the top leaders, from all the reaping companies in the area will be attending. Plus some of the blue bloods and the grim. That's too much power. It would be suicide if they tried anything."

That was a bit surprising to me. I didn't know that some of my siblings would be coming. It was exciting. I would finally get the chance to meet some of them.

"Why would the leaders from the other companies show up?" Ana asked rolling her eyes. "They don't even know Bella. And I doubt they are close with Edward either."

"It's mostly just a sign of acceptance and goodwill among the companies. It's a show. Probably to look good for the grim. They want to kiss ass. Probably with intentions of getting on the grim's good side." Alice said shrugging her shoulders.

"Especially the Rozelle company. They are notorious for being major suck-ups to anything involving the grim. That goes for his children as well." Katlyn gave me an empathetic look. "It's going to be a long day for you."

"It will be worth it all in the end." I said with a content smile. It didn't matter what happened today. As long as at the end of it all, I'll be back in Edward's arms. As his new wife.

11am - Edward's Point of View

The grand church, sitting nearly in the heart of Boswell, truly was a sight to behold. It seated five hundred and it was over halfway filled with friends, family and acquaintances. Surely this wasn't going to be easy for Bella. She tended to shy away from large crowds. I'm certain this would be a tad overwhelming for her. I hoped that she would be alright.

My chest throbbed, feeling empty and creating a dizzying effect for me. I felt lost without her here. I craved her presence more than imaginable. Even as I mingled through the crowd of guests, I continued to feel empty and unsatisfied. I couldn't concentrate. But I kept a polite smile as I made small talk with those daring to approach me.

Emmett remained at my side, not speaking with anyone. He kept his eyes hidden behind a pair of dark tinted sunglasses. He felt too self-conscious of his appearance to bring any attention to himself. Not to mention, the loss of his eye tended to unsettle most who had had a glimpse of it, hence the glasses. Under his sharp tuxedo, his body was badly marred by his battle against the demon. Although, his wounds were healed, I'm afraid his soul still was on the mend. I worried about him. But I didn't want that to be too blatantly obvious. It would only annoy him if he realized how much I worry.

Jacob barged over to us; a young boy seated on his shoulder and a wide smirk on his face. "It's getting close to the time, getting cold feet yet?" He teased me.

I rolled my eyes in response. "Don't be an idiot." Then I turned to smile up at the boy. "Thank you for coming little Jackson." It was still so shocking that Alice and Jacob had a child together. Although their brief romance only lasted a night, it brought a wonderful little boy into the world. He was truly precious.

Jackson was pretty much identical to Jacob in every way, except for his blonde hair, that matches Alice's. But as for personality. I'd have to say, he reminded me a lot of how Alice was growing up. Before she became bitter and heartbroken.

"I'm happy to attend uncle." Jackson said with a controlled demeanor. A smile didn't appear on his face, but I could see the softness in his eyes. He was enjoying himself.

Jacob sighed, taking his hand to place it on top of the boy's head, ruffling his hair. "Come on kid. You don't have to be so formal. Let loose a little. Your mother isn't around. It's okay to have fun and act your age."

Jackson quickly swatted Jacob's hand away with an annoyed look. "You're messing up my hair dad. Cease and desist." He leapt down from Jacob's shoulder, adjusting his clothing, then hair.

I held back a chuckle at the disappointed look that came to Jacob's face. It was amusing to see him in this new role. This was all new for him. I'm sure I would be able to relate to this soon enough. Bella's pregnancy was progressing well, soon I'd be welcoming children of my own. The thought brought a new wave of excitement and fear.

Time crept along at a snail pace. I found my anxiety growing more by the second. I fidgeted at my tie as everyone began taking their seats. I'd spoken with pretty much everyone here. Most of Bella's family were here, they sat to the right side of the aisle. They mostly kept to themselves, not intermingling with any of the reapers. Which I was thankful for. Charlie and his boys stopped by to say hello and shake hands. Charlie was a bit nervous, as he spoke of walking Bella down the aisle. But the bright smile on his face was indescribable. He truly saw her as a daughter. And although the grim, who was also amongst the crowd was a bit displeased with not having the honor of walking her down the aisle, he too was nothing but smiles.

I felt my mouth dry up as I sensed Bella. She was near. I felt her emotions, heard the thudding of her heart and smelled the sweet fragrance of jasmine. I was relieved to find anxiety within her as well. So, it wasn't just me. She was nervous as well.

Emmett touched my shoulder, without much life behind his sunglasses. "It's time to get in place." Even his voice sounded hollow.

I nodded, allowing him to guide me to my position in front of the preacher. The older gentleman was an old acquaintance of Esme's. He was the preacher that married everyone among our family. It was tradition. One that I hadn't followed when I married Tanya. Although, I didn't even have a ceremony with Tanya. It was just signing papers and getting drunk after. It was nothing like this. This felt so surreal.

The church had extensively been decorated, mostly with the help of Katlyn and Alice. The theme was sunflowers, with highlights of pastel yellow, green and a sharp contrasting black. It was very beautiful; I'm sure Bella would like it. There was a rustic charm to the atmosphere, which was a nod to her roots. Her background and family life on a farm were taken into consideration. This truly was all for her.

I watched as all of my groomsmen made their way past me, heading to the waiting area where Bella and her bridesmaids were. They would be pairing up soon and taking their turns walking down the aisle. Music began to play softly in the background. I felt my body tense. I couldn't move a muscle, just stare at the sea of faces in front of me. Could they tell how nervous I was?

"Relax dear boy. She's the one, isn't she?" The old preacher turned with a wise look in his eyes and a thin smile. His wrinkled face held a hint of amusement.

"Of course, she's the love of my life." I answered frigidly. I couldn't control the inflection of my tone. Not under this much stress.

My bluntness didn't seem to bother him, his smile only widened. "So, where is all this nervousness coming from? Afraid of crowds perhaps?"

Was he mocking me? I didn't recall the preacher behaving like this at other weddings.

"Don't be ridiculous. This isn't something to take lightly. It's overwhelming, a very permeant notion, I'm not anxious because I'm afraid that I'm making a mistake. I'm nervous that she will come to realize I was never good enough… that she will have regrets. That I'll let her down or fail to protect her. It's a lot to carry on my shoulders. Not to mention the babies…"

"Well, if you ask me champ, no one on this earth is worthy of that girl. But she's here, isn't she? Ready to make this commitment. She isn't the type to make decisions without thinking them through. So, I highly doubt she will come to regret this." He spoke with a sad smile.

It sounded like he knew her well. But that couldn't be the case.

"You speak as though you know her." I commented.

"I know her more than you do." He smirked.

"You aren't the preacher, are you?"

He shrugged his shoulders, his eyes scanning me over from head to toe. "Afraid not boy, I had to come in this disguise. I'll be acting the part though. In place of the real preacher."

I glared at the man openly. "Who are you. Instantly, I was on guard. I searched for any sign of someone who could assist. I spotted Esme in the front row. We made eye contact. I waved at her, hoping she would notice and come over. However, she only smiled and waved back. Not at all reading my expression or noticing my stress.

"Don't bother making a scene. Your mother is well aware of me. The grim is as well. This was all their idea to begin with." The false preacher spoke, continuing to watch me with dark amusement. "I've been waiting a long time to meet you, by the way."

"If that's the case, why don't you tell me, who you are." I said pushing my hands into my pockets. There was a trembling in my hands that I didn't want attention drawn to. I haven't been able to control my temper lately. Not with the additional stress of the demon roaming through the area.

"I'd prefer to keep that information to myself, until the time is right." He nodded, now a more natural smile coming to his face. The music in the room began to shift into a new melody. This signaled the starting lineup. My heart fell to the pit of my stomach.

"Look alive kid, this thing is starting." He muttered to me quietly, before moving to his position.

I followed him, cursing under my breath. I felt eyes all over me. I kept my head lowered, watching my feet. I could see my own reflection in my black shoes. There was a lump forming in my throat.

The doors at the rear of the church opened, Olivia and Alyssa were the first out. They wore matching yellow dresses. They held a single basket between them, filled to the top of yellow rose pedals.

Alyssa smiled brightly at everyone as the two slowly moved down the aisle. Olivia kept her head down, focusing only on dropping and scattering the pedals as they walked.

After a short pause, Jackson stepped out, holding a single pillow that carried two wedding bands. He kept his chin up, a determined smile on his face. His strides were elegant and swift. Him and the girls stood in front of me, facing the crowd.

Again, the music shifted and in walked the groomsmen and bridesmaids, paired together in a line. Ana and Jacob, Katlyn and Jasper, Alice and Emmett. The men moved to stand with me, while the women went to the area that Bella would be standing in. They each had smiles, except for Emmett. His face remained somber, still hidden behind his sunglasses. But I couldn't focus on him. Not when I heard the final shift of the music. Bella would be coming now.

It felt like time stood still for a moment. The entire room went silent. My heart squeezed tightly in my chest. And in a single breath, she was there. Standing in a breath-taking white gown. The dress fit her body perfectly and really showed off her pregnancy bump. If anyone here didn't know she was carrying my children, they knew now.

Our eyes met. All my nerves melted away, leaving me feeling weightless. Her smile was radiating, it dazzled all of us. At her side, a teary-eyed Charlie.

"Absolutely beautiful," The preacher spoke barely above a whisper. His eyes stayed on Bella, but eventually, his gaze moved to Ana as well. "They both are."

I felt my eyes widened a bit as I turned to him. I opened my mouth to question him, but he held his hand up, shaking his head slowly. Ending any further interactions.

Was he… Bella and Ana's father? The one that passed away from cancer.

I was slightly distracted by the possibility, but as Bella reached me and I felt her hand slide into mine, all my thoughts turned to her. I held my breath for a second. This was it. The moment my life would truly begin.

Thanks for waiting for this update. Hope you all had a nice Easter! Leave a review with your thoughts. Again, thanks for reading!