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Chapter 10: Party

“Why am I covered in feathers?” I asked Alice while looking up to see the ceiling fan that was parading them down like little pieces of confetti. She ignored me and ushered me towards a table draped in white cloth. It was filled with little finger sandwiches and white chocolate truffles; nothing they would eat. Alice’s theme was white. Practically everything she could possibly get her little dainty hands on was covered in white: the candles, the roses. The only thing that had any hint of color was the little turquoise bows that wrapped the presents. It was like my birthday party all over again but without the fateful mishaps.

All of a sudden I was being held tightly is a warm grasp. “Bella.” Said a familiar voice in my ear. It was Renée. “Mom.” I said. A few tears escaped my eyes; a reaction I was not entirely ready for. “Oh honey, it’s so wonderful to see you.” She pulled away to look at me. “Why are you crying, dear?” She asked searching my face.
“I’m just happy to see you.” I blubbered as and I went to hug her again. I hadn’t realized how much I missed her.
“Ow!” I yelped suddenly and pulled away from her. Something had jabbed into my skin. “Mom, why do you have clothespins coving you?” I asked her. She had done some crazy things before, but had never worn clothespins on her clothing in public. She let out a heartwarming laugh.
“It’s a game.” Alice said sashaying towards us and clipping a few on my dress straps.
“Now, if you or anyone else says the word ‘bride’ then who ever catches you saying it gets to take your clothespin. The one with the most pins at the end wins!” She explained. I looked at her; she already had more than her share of pins. I wonder if she got this game from one of her bridal magazines.

The next hour and a half was spent playing more of Alice’s games; one even involving brown paper bags and “mystery” items. Besides getting my hand doused in chocolate syrup, this afternoon turned out to be very pleasant. Esme and Renée talked about colleges and how she likes living in Florida while Rosalie, Alice and I sat in a little huddle and discussed meaningless things such as clothing and fashion. It was nice to just sit back and not have anything to worry about, to be with family. It felt odd relating them with that word; they seemed so much more than that to me. Just like Edward felt more to me than a fiancée or soon to be husband. I felt it more appropriate to call him my “destiny” than anything else.

“Present time!” Alice cheered. She walked over to the marble fireplace and picked up a small white package.
“Alice you really didn’t have to.” I stated.
“Don’t be silly Bella.” She retorted and shoved the gift into my hands. Esme and Renée had stopped their conversation; everyone had their eyes on me. I didn’t like all this attention, even if they were family. I un-wrapped the paper, being very careful of my fingers. Even though I knew they were all strong enough, I didn’t want to risk the chance of getting a paper cut. I removed the top of the little box to reveal a set of keys. These must be the keys for my “after” car.
“It’s from both me and Edward.” Alice said, a breathtaking smile spreading across her face.
“Thanks” I grinned.
She looked at me a little puzzled but then regained her happy composure. “Don’t you want to know what kind of car it is?” She inquired. Her liquid eyes were wide and her eyebrows rose in anticipation of my answer. I decided to humor her.
“Of course!” I exclaimed as enthusiastically as I could muster. Alice scrutinized me with disbelieving eyes but then decided that I would not ruin her fun.
“Come on then, I’ll show you!” She grabbed my hand and yanked me from the couch and to my feet.
“Close your eyes.” She ordered.
“What? Why?”
“Just do it. I want it to be a surprise. Don’t worry, I won’t let you fall.” She laughed.
I let out a low grumble but obeyed.
“No peeking” She said as she took my arm and lead me towards my new car.
“Ok.” I said, closing them. She pressed her cold hands to my face, masking my eyes.
“Alice, I won’t look.” I reassured her, grumpily.
“It’s just and extra precaution.” She replied as she guided me foreword.
After a few moments we had stopped walking and she removed her hands, but I still kept my eyes closed; afraid that she didn’t want me to look yet.
“Ok. Open them!” Her voice was smothered with excitement. I opened one eye, reluctant of what I might see. But then yanked the other one open in disbelief. There it was, my old rusted Chevy sitting there in all its glory.
“No way.” I muttered, more to myself than to Alice.
“Yup.” Her voice was smug.
“But...Edward...said...ruined...” I stuttered. I didn’t take my eyes off of it, afraid it would disappear if I were to. Alice laughed.
“Yes, I know. But it had to be done. You know how reckless you are Bella.” She elbowed me playfully in the arm, which actually hurt a bit, but I didn’t say anything.
“So, this is the ‘after’ car then?” I asked cautiously; I wanted to make sure this was real. She nodded. I walked over to the truck I knew so well and ran my fingers along the chipped red paint. It was exactly how I remembered it; cracked leather seats and all. I ran over to Alice and gave her a tight hug.
“Thank you.” I sputtered.
“You’re welcome.” Her voice was smooth and pleased. “Well, time to go open your other gifts.” She stated, gently pulling away from my grasp.

When we got back inside Rosalie, Renée and Esme all looked at me.
“Did you like it?” Esme asked kindly. I couldn’t stop smiling.
“Yes, very much.”
“Well, time for mine and Esme’s gift.” Rosalie said while handing me another small rectangular package.
All eyes were once again on me, but I was too elated to care. I tore off the paper, a little less cautiously this time and opened up the black velvet container. Inside, contrasting against the black background, was a white gold chain from Tiffany Co.
“Thank you so much.” I said appreciatively, though I secretly wondered why they would only give me a chain without a pendant. However, it didn’t matter, I loved it all the same.

“My turn.” Renée set the pink bag on my lap. The pink had messed up Alice’s “white theme” but she didn’t seem to care.
I removed the tissue paper and cast it aside and peeked into the bag. I could feel my cheeks growing red hot from embarrassment on my face.
“Uh, mom?” I looked at her.
He smile was earnest. “Yes, dear?”
“What is this?” I asked warily, pulling out something black and full of lace. Alice and Rosalie let out a soft giggle from beside me, but Renée didn’t seem to notice.
“Lingerie.” She answered casually still smiling. I glanced at the tag, and it was from Victoria’s Secret. Of course. I still hadn’t forgotten the time she had bought me a matching silk pajama set.
“Thanks, mom.” I smiled sheepishly, shoving it back into the bag.
“You’re welcome, sweetheart.” She seemed un-phased by my behavior.

I could feel the party coming to and end as conversations grew scarce and more muted.
I looked at the clock; it was 6:15 p.m. Where did all the time go? I hadn’t realized the fun I had been having. But I couldn’t help but to wonder what Edward had done today. He would be back soon; I would surely ask when I saw him. Renée had attempted to help clean up but Alice refused to let her. She was left sitting on the couch while the other three picked up feathers and little pieces of wrapping paper from the floor. Now would be a good time to explain everything to her. But I decided to wait until Charlie arrived so I would be able to tell them at the same time. It only took them a few minutes to clean up then they rejoined us on the couch.

“And the winner of the game is...” Alice said looking around at every one’s clothing. “Me!” She declared. Alice’s top was completely engrossed in clothes pins, almost to the point that it was impossible to decipher the flowery print on her dress. I couldn’t help but laugh, she looked like a walking pin cushion.
“Thanks everyone!” I smiled, meeting each and every one of their eyes. “This was a lot of fun. I really enjoyed it.”
“I’m so glad.” Esme said wrapping her arms around me in a tight hug.

Just then, there was a subtle knock on the front door.
“Is it safe to come in?” Emmett called from outside.
Rosalie rolled her eyes playfully and then said, “Yes, come in.”
All four of them joined us in the main living room; each one meeting up with their partner. Edward pulled me into his muscular arms and kissed me lightly then he turned to face Renée.
“It’s wonderful that you could make it.” He said cordially, flashing a brilliant smile.
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” She was looking at me when she answered.
“Renée?” Esme said sweetly from Carlisle’s side. Renée turned around to face her.
“You luggage has been taken to your room. I will accompany you when you’re ready.” She smiled.
“Thank you. I think I’m ready now, actually. The time difference is starting to take a toll on me.” She laughed.
“Good night, mom.” I gave her a hug and kissed her softly on the cheek.
“Goodnight sweetheart.” She whispered in my ear. “I will see you tomorrow.”
Carlisle released his arm from around Esme’s waist and I watched as they both disappeared up the steps.
“I think we should call it a night as well, Bella. You have a big day ahead of you.” Edward said from beside me.
“I guess you right.” I sighed. Edward began to collect the gifts while I went over to Alice and gave her a hug. “Thanks again. I had a great time.” I said.
“You’re welcome.” She seemed very pleased with herself that this party had gone as planned. I pulled away from her and found myself in Rosalie’s arms; this was the fist time I had ever had physical contact with her.
“Thank you.” I repeated.
Her voice was sincere. “It was my pleasure.”
“Tell Esme I said thanks as well.” I called from behind my shoulder, but the backdoor had already shut behind me.

                                                       ***

When we reached our room I plopped myself into the giant bed. It was only a moment before Edward had joined me.
“Did you have a pleasant time?” He breathed, pulling me close to his side.
“Yes.” I replied. “Did you?”
He chucked. “Yes, I rather did, actually.”
“What did you do?” I prodded. I could hear the not so subtle eagerness behind my voice as I sure he did as well.
“Well, Jasper, Carlisle and Emmett took me to a racing track. We got drive all types of cars. They even arranged for me to meet Mario Andretti. He was a famous Italian American race car driver, but has since then retired.” He explained when he saw my confused expression.
I smiled in relief of the new about his afternoon.
“What did you do?”

I explained the events of the afternoon in full detail but stopped when we he asked about the gifts.
I poked him hard in the chest, which pained my finger slightly.
“You liar.” I said in mock anger. He was silent so I proceeded. “You told me my truck was broken beyond repair.” I felt him shake with silent laughter beside me.
“Yes, I did. I’m sorry. But it was the only way I could tear you away from it. Please forgive me.” His voice was just a whisper and I had to strain my ears to catch it.
“Ok.” I huffed and this time he let out an audible laugh. “Thank you.”
“You’re very welcome.” He laid his head on my shoulder as he ran his cool fingertips along my arm.

“What other items were given to you?” He asked casually.
This time it me who was silent.
“You won’t tell me what else you received?” He asked, a little confused. Even though I couldn’t read his expression in the dark, I could vividly imagine his brows furrow and his forehead crease.
“I’m sure you already know.” I laughed it off playfully.
“I might, but please tell me anyway.”
I desperately tried to avoid the Victoria’s Secret incident so I told him about the white gold chain from Esme and Rosalie.
“Where are you going?” I asked when stood up suddenly, but he didn’t answer. I pulled myself up into a sitting position. And before I had time to repeat my question he was back by my side, wrapping his arms around me.
“Here, this is for you.” He handed me something small and square. I could faintly make out the white paper reflecting from the moonlight.
“Edward.” I said in disapproval. He had already given me my truck back, I didn’t want anything more.
“Bella.” He mimicked my tone. We scowled at each other in the darkness for a moment until I finally gave up.

For the third time tonight, I unwrapped a little box and removed the lid.
“Edward.” I said again, this time in amazement. I could feel him beaming beside me.
“It’s for the chain from Esme and Rosalie.” I held the pendant toward the moonlight so I could see it better. It was a small heart made out of the same white gold as the chain. I turned it around in my fingers to see the other side. On the back was a small inscription; I squinted to try and read it.
“Forever.” I murmured, reading the swirly letters that were elegantly engraved in the heart.
“Yes, Bella. Forever. That is how long I will love you.” He whispered softly in my ear. He took the heart from my hand and put it on the chain. He kissed my neck gently and ran his cold lips along my collar bone as he clasped the necklace carefully in place.
“Thank you” I choked out, it was hard to find my voice.
“You’re welcome.” He muttered against my lips.
He pulled me against him, and laid me down gently on the bed. All was quiet but the distant hooting of owls in the night. I played with the little heart between my fingers.
“Edward?” I mumbled breaking the silence.
“Mmm?”
“I love you.”
“I love you, too.” He whispered and pressed his lips to mine.
He began to hum my lullaby as I drifted off to sleep, content in the arms of my destiny.