[No beta, sorry guys. Please excuse the errors.]

Chapter 23: Five Years Later.
Edward & Bella's wedding in Italy.

AN: It took me a long time to figure out the age gap in this, but I felt it was necessary and realistic. In order for the changes
to be made to the entire family, I felt we'd need a good distance between each change, so the adjustment periods for each character would be more
realistic and accurate... Plus, Emmett and Rosalie had a longer while to wait, due to Rosalie's reasons... WINK WINK!

PHEW what a HARD chapter to write! I put a lot of research into this! Plus I was crying through it. :(
I hope you guys enjoy this fourth re-write! I hope all the mind changes and details of this were worth the wait.
NEW TO PROFILE: Please go see outfits, songs, etc.

Officially rated M. ... And again PLEASE REVIEW!

Disclaimer: Twilight/Characters not mine. I just like to dabble.

For what shall it profit a man,

if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul.

Mark 8:36

Chapter 23: Starting Forever

"Edward!" I gasped as I wrapped my white robe around me, "What are you doing in here?"

"I wanted to see you."

"No, you need to get out of here!"

He walked toward me, his special side grin decorating his perfectly pale face, "I've missed you."

I felt myself start to get giddy, but I shook it away, "Edward, we've only been separated for thirteen hours."

"Long enough."

"It's not like we don't have forever," I said as I continued to back away from him, "so I don't see why you cannot survive one day."

"One day without you is torture."

I felt myself starting to drown in his golden orbs, and shook my head to maintain my focus, "Well, uh, i-it's bad luck, haven't you ever heard that before?"

"Yes, old wives tales state that I am not supposed to see the bride the day before the wedding, I know, I know. But technically, that rumor was started because humans were afraid that if the groom saw the bride the night before the wedding, that their marriage wouldn't last. But you and I already know that we're going to be together forever, so why do we have to follow those rules?"

I slapped my hands on my hips, "Because it's tradition!"

"EDWARD ANTHONY CULLEN!"

Edward winced while I covered my hand over my mouth and giggled.

"She's coming for you Edward," I warned, "you'd better get out of here. I can hear her stomping up the stairs."

"I'll survive."

The door to the castle swung open, revealing a scary-like pixie, face paler than normal, her hair a little messy, and an lingerie nightgown dress her brother shouldn't technically be seeing her in.

"I am going to count to three," she threatened as she slowly stalked toward him, "and if you are not back out that window, and on the other side of this castle by then, so help me God Edward, there will be no wedding tomorrow."

"Alice, go put on some clothes," Edward said sarcastically.

Before we could blink, Alice flew in front of him, using her vampire speed, and glared at him, "One."

"Alice, come on."

"Do you want me to continue counting?"

Edward began to back out toward the window, eyeing his sister down, "Jasper is waiting on you in the bedroom. He's pretty pissed you stopped doing... whatever it was that you were doing, which I do not care about whatsoever."

"Two, and that was none of your business, so stop reading everyone's minds."

"Why should I? You were using your powers."

"That's because I was in the middle of something wonderful, and then I had a sudden vision of your stupid ass taking advantage of your bride-to-be in this bedroom!"

"Well, then stay out of our business."

"Edward," I giggled as I washed Alice almost push him out of the window, "just go."

"I don't want to."

"Two and a half," Alice hissed at her brother, as Jasper walked into the room.

Immediately, we were all feeling warming, soothing sensations.

Then Alice turned and glared over at her loving husband, "Why do you have to get in the middle of this?"

Jasper grinned as he pulled a white t-shirt over his bare chest, "Because I can feel everyone's anxiety from two floors below. Now can you just came back to bed and let these two have their fun?"

"NO!" Alice huffed as she twisted back and thrusted a finger toward Edward, "He has to follow the rules!"

"Alice, please, just go get some for all of us. It'll put you in a better mood."

Uh oh, I thought to myself. Edward that was a wrong move.

Before Edward could retract his statement, Alice flew after him and they both went out the window, which was six stories up from the ground. Jasper and I ran to the open window, and began to laugh. We could hear the two of them fighting and bickering and cursing at each other.

"Five bucks says Edward gets her this time," Jasper said.

"No, Alice is pretty pissed. I'm not taking that bet."

Jasper twisted and grinned at me, rubbing my back and sending me more calming vibes, "You'll make a beautiful bride tomorrow, Isabella."

I smiled gracefully at him, "Do you really think so?"

"Of course."

We heard something that sounded like a tree being ripped from the ground, and then we heard Edward shout, "Alice, put that root down! This is not our house, or our Country for that matter! You cannot terrorize property! Wait! Don't throw that at me! Alice!"

Jasper and I giggled as we walked away from the window.

"Sounds like the two of them are in for another long argument," I said as I sat on the edge of my bed, "you may want to for-go your plans with Alice."

Jasper shook his head, "She'll make it up to me. I'm sure by the time she gets back, she'll have so much adrenaline, she'll need a workout session."

"God, Jasper, thanks for the visual."

"You're welcome," he chuckles, "plus that's what you get for Alice breaking out in the middle of our alone-time, and describing to me her vision of what she saw you two doing in here."

I snickered, shaking my head, "Okay, truce."

We were silent for a few minutes, listening to Edward and Alice continue their destructive rant.

Then Jasper gave me a kiss on my head, and walked toward the door, "Oh, Bella, Edward wrote you this letter and asked me to give it to you tonight."

He handed me a sealed envolope and gave me a wink before exiting,

I listened for any sounds of Alice and Edward's squabble, but couldn't hear any, so I knew they had taken it elsewhere, and Edward wouldn't be coming back tonight.

With a slightly defeated sigh, I pulled out the letter, and smiled at each word I read:

My dearest Isabella,
I cannot wait to meet you at the end of that candlelit isle.
It's the start of a beautiful forever, my love...
Until then, Cinderella...

Yours for eternity,
Edward Cullen.

I took a deep breath, staring at my reflection in the full-length mirror, "Just breathe, Bella."

"Bella?"

I twisted around and smiled, "Hey mom."

Esme grinned as she walked toward me. She wore a strapless white, knee-high dress, that went perfectly with her translucent skin. Her hair was down and wavy, bouncing with volume over her shoulders, "Are you ready to get your dress on?"

"She's got two more pins I've got to get in," Rosalie said through the bobby pins between her lips, "and then she'll be ready."

"No, she's got to get her garder on first!" Alice shouted as she ran as fast as lightening over to the nearest bag, "and then you can have her."

"You look beautiful, Bella."

"Thank you," I grinned.

"You guys know that Edward's trying to read all of our minds right now, trying to figure out what Bella looks like," Alice giggled.

"Yep, that's why I keep humming Britney Spears," Rosalie chimed, "because nothing annoys him more than that."

"Have you got your vows memorized?" Esme asked.

"Yes, I think so," I exhaled shakily, "I'm pretty sure I do."

"Do you want to rehearse them?" Alice said as she bounced up and down.

"I'm afraid if I do, I'll forget them, because I've said them too much."

"You're gonna be fine, Bella," Rosalie reassured me, "trust me."

Alice slipped my white lace garder on my right thigh, and then rose to her feet, "I think she's ready for her dress."

Rosalie nodded behind me in the mirror.

I felt my chest begin to rise and fall too quickly, and I stumbled in my red high heels, "Are we sure I can handle this?"

"You can," Esme grinned as the three of them surrounded me, "and you will."

"Just think," Rosalie said as she turned my face delicately to face her, "the sooner you can get his beatiful dress on, the sooner you can rush down that isle, and the sooner you can be Mrs. Edward Cullen, forever..."

I nodded, taking another breath, "okay, I can do this, I can do this."

We've been living in Italy for a few years now, and picked the Matrese Italia church for our reception to take place.

My dress wasn't the average white gown. No, there was no way Alice would allow that.

She said I was special. She said that all eyes were going to be on me anyway, so I may as well make it count. Therefore, with her help, Edward and I designed a red, white, and black only theme, which we picked out after Edward presented me with my ring.

It was made from Harry Winston's company, and designed by Edward, with the help of Carlisle. It has a silver flawless band, with a square, 18-carat, rare ruby diamond in the middle, surrounded by twenty tiny hand-picked diamonds as a frame. The first time he presented me with it, I became so breathless, we thought my body was going to shut down again and go back into survival-mode, like it had two years before, after Victor's attack.

My dress was designed for months before it got made by Esme's friend, Maggie Sorretto. It's strapless, with velvet-silk red fabric cascading down the tightly ruffled, fitting form of my breasts and hips, and flowing shortly after into a white lace underskirt. The elegant, mid-length train is made out of both the velvet red and the heavenly-laced white material. The one-of-a-kind dress is accented perfectly below the bust and trailing from the left side, down toward the thighs, with hand-picked diamonds, designed into floral ecstacy prints.

Edward chose a black tux with a lighter vest strap, and a matching red tie. He wanted to be more traditional, because he said he wanted all the focus to be on me.

Alice and Rosalie, which were my bridesmaids, wore simple and plain, two-inches above the knee, cream strapless dresses.

Edward's groomsmen, Jasper and Emmett, wore black tuxedos with grey vests.

Edward's best man, Carlisle, wore a black tuxedo with black vest, with a red napikin as the accent on the pocket.

My maiden of honor, Esme, wore a full-length dress, which had red straps and hem lines, but was all white.

My flower-girl, Emmett and Rosalie's four and a half year old daughter, Gracey Mae Hale, wore a dress that was white, with a red ribbon that ties behind in a big bow.

"Bella, try not to tremble too much, I can't fasten the back of this," Rosalie giggled as she pulled me back toward her.

"Sorry Rose."

I exhaled, smiling at the thought of my wedding decorations...

We chose the banquet hall for our after reception, which was draped with white fabrics, silver chairs, shipped-in trees from Bale', and chandeliers. Both the banquet hall and the church itself will be dimly lit, with yellow candle accents framing each of the pews in the church, and each of the corners in the reception hall. There will be hand-selected petals draped down the isle I'm about to walk down, and thin, white linen fabric draped from each pew, cascading down toward my man in waiting...

"Hey Bells," Alice snickered as she adjusted a pin in my hair, "do you remember last year when Jasper and I got married on the beach, and I almost fell because of my train?"

"Yes," I giggled, "God I hope I don't have your luck."

"What I was getting at," she glared teasingly, "was that I've already messed up. So if you're worrying about falling or something, after all this grace you've inherited in your hundred-odd some years of being a beautiful vampire, then don't be. I've almost beat you to it."

I sighed, rubbing her arms, "That's not what I'm afraid of."

"Then what are you worried about?"

"Seeing him... I'm afraid I'll be walking down the isle, and will get so caught up of seeing my main in waiting in his tuxedo... just smiling at me - no, no, giving me my favorite smile - and I'll just lose it... I'll freeze because I'll be dazzled, and then everyone will think there's something wrong with me."

"You will be fine, my beautiful daughter," Esme said, giving me a hug. "Don't you dare worry your little head off. It's going to be perfect, you'll see."

I took another deep breath, staring at my pulled-up hair-do. Rose spent only ten minutes on perfecting it - which would amount to a couple hours in human speed - and it amazed me how well she did it. I told her it didn't matter how it looked, but she insisted on putting delicate curls and waves through it, twisting it behind my neck and pulling it back up, with little diamond pin accents all over. And with the diamond accents on my dress... it looked perfect.

It's funny how, when we first started wedding planning, I told them I could get married in holy, torn-up jeans, standing next to a run-down shack and be just as happy... but the more and more I looked at all the effort that went into this wedding... the happier I was that I chose to go down the elegant path.

Because today, after all the countless years of searching for myself, I knew who I was in this moment: I was Edward's princess.

Esme handed me my bouquet of red and pink roses, wrapped delicately with red ribbon and pieced at the cross-line with green jewels that matched the green stems on the bottom of the flowers.

Trembling, I turned to Rosalie and Alice, grasping at their arms, "Where's Gracey?"

"She just went potty, she'll be here in a moment," Rosalie said. "Gosh, I cannot believe how gorgeous my little girl is in her dress!"

Rosalie waited until she was twenty-one to be changed, while Emmett changed at nineteen. A year before, when Alice and Jasper were changed, Rose and Em decided to wait until they had a little girl. Two weeks after graduating from Forks High, Rosalie found out she was pregnant. Rosalie put off her change for a few years, to make sure she could handle her daughter being human. She said she wanted to grow to love her unconditionally - which took about two seconds after giving birth, regardless - just to be on the safe side.

Emmett and Rosalie have already explained to Gracey about who they are now, and Gracey never once cared. She thought it was an adventure, like she was living a secret fairy-tale. Emmett and Rosalie plan to change Gracey - by their daughter's wishes, if she assumes so - when she turns eighteen years of age. But for now, they're loving their four and a half year old daughter.

Carlisle and Esme were changed about three years ago, between Emmett and Rosalie's changes.

"Mama, Mama!" the little girl with the matching blue-green eyes of her father - pre-Vamp - and the full lips of her mother, not to mention the cascading blonde hair, button nose, and high cheek bones which was a mix between the both of them, came running at Rosalie's side, tugging on her dress, "I'm ready mama, can you fixes my dresses though?"

"It's fix my dress, dear angel, and yes I will," Rosalie beamed as she adjusted it for her daughter, "are you ready to throw some flowers?"

"YES! YES, YES!" Gracey squealed as she jumped up and down.

"Now remember," Esme said as she squat in front of her, "no throwing them at the people, despite what Daddy told you, and make sure to scatter them around, okay?"

"Yes grandma," Gracey sighed, "I know."

Esme giggled and kissed her forehead, before rising back to her feet.

Jasper and Emmett strolled gracefully over to us, looking like GQ models in their tuxes. They quickly kissed their wives, before Emmett turned and scooped up his daughter.

"Where is my warm and edible snack?" he asked teasingly as he pretended to growl and chew on her, causing her to giggle up a storm. "I'm hungry!"

"DADDY! Quit it!"

He continued his tickle until she was laughing so hard, Rosalie slapped him and said the humans in the pews wouldn't be able to hear the piano.

"Daddy," Gracey Mae hissed as she fisted her hips, eyeing him down with the look she learned from her mother, "you frumpled my dresses."

"Oh, I'm sorry," Emmett said as he adjusted it, "all better now?"

"Yes, fanks."

I danced from foot to foot, imagining Edward, the priest, and his best man Carlisle, all entering the crowded church from the side door, awaiting my arrival.

Alice came over to me and gave me a hug, before handing me a black and white portrait, "Are you ready?"

I bit my lip and looked down, to the half-smirked picture of the proud man in the police uniform.

I felt my heart crush with both a sadness that Charlie couldn't be here today, and a joy that he was still ever-present in my heart, "Yes. Daddy's going to walk down the isle with me..."

I exhaled as I kissed the picture once and then tucked it to my chest, along with my boquet, "I'm ready."

I stood back in the shadows of the hall, while the grand doors swung open, delivering the sweet smell of flowers and Freesia, as well as the dim lights of candlelight and the reflections of roses cascaded down the long isle.

All of a sudden, a million flashbacks swarmed over me at once:

The first day I met Edward, in the hall of school. Meeting the Cullens, baseball practice, the almost-kiss at his parents house, the party where the truck almost hit him, the discussions of our real parents, the i love you's, the first kiss, the first time we made love, Edward's acceptance of who I was, the time we spent in the meadow, the time we walked back to school after we had been changed, when he showed me the ring, when we picked out our house here in Italy, when we fought Victor, Edward holding me at Charlie's funeral, the changes of his family, Edward's little phrases, such as "Until Then" and "You are so beautiful..."

Every single detail of every single day with him washed over me like a waterfall... I was overwhelmed, and anticipating the idea of getting down that isle and holding his hand now more than anything.

The bridesmaids and groomsmen headed down the isle slowly, first Alice and Jasper, and then Emmett and Rosalie. I felt jealous of them, that they were getting to Edward before I was... Esme held onto Gracey's hand, making sure she didn't run off after her parents, like she did during rehearsal the day before yesterday.

Then she handed her tiny palm over to me, before Esme strolled as a single down the isle.

I looked down to the little blonde model and kissed the top of her head, "Are you ready to make your entrance?"

"Yes Aunt Bellsa, I am," she said giving me a toothful grin.

"Okay," I chuckled, "count to five and go ahead! Remember to throw the flowers!"

Gracey counted out in her head, and before she got to five, she stopped and twisted around, "Oh, Aunt Bellsa?"

"Yes?"

"...You looks likes a princess today."

My cold heart began to unfreeze as I looked at that beautiful little blonde girl, "So do you, angel."

As she strolled delicately and threw the pink, white, and red rose petals, I took one final glance at my father's photo I gripped so tightly, "I love you, Daddy. I hope you're proud of me. Mama too."

Then, as I watched Gracey stand next to her mama at the end of the candlelit isle, and the music came on and my friends and family rose to their feet, I recognized my cue.

Imagining my father pulling my hand through his arm, and kissing the side of my head, I began to take my step with the rhythm of the slow but steady classical wedding march. While I was walking, I could hear the murmurs and whispers of my friends ooohing and aweing my dress and my appearance, but my eyes - which bounced from the white sheer tents, the red roses, the candlelight on each of the pews, - zoned straight down that isle and right toward him.

Immediately, I wondered if my life was a dream. If all of this, from before the day I was changed, was an illusion... How does someone like me get this lucky?

All I could see was his gorgeous, perfect face, and nothing and no one else... With his warm, sunlit orbs that were almost burning into my soul, which cascaded every overwhelmed emotion he was feeling as I walked... Followed by his special, dazzling, crooked smile that was meant on this day for only me...

I struggled with myself to keep a matching pace, as all I really wanted to do was run toward him and beg him to take me in his arms. It felt like everything stood still, and I was floating down the isle.. both as fast as lightening, but as slow as a turtle...

Then, as I got to the middle of the isle... It seemed as if my entire world seemed to be shuffling, and jerking, and spinning and spinning spinning more wildly out of control. I felt dizzy and overwhelmed and a mixture of a thousand and one things at once, and for a second, I thought I wasn't going to make it...

That God would have seen that today of all days would be the best day to take me out of this world, and I would never reach the end of the isle... or my husband to be. That this was a dream, or that He decided right then and there that I didn't deserve this miracle man...

I felt myself begin to panic, as my legs began to tremble and quiver. I could hear my gasps for breaths as I struggled to steady myself, and I clutched to the photo of Charlie for dear life. Please let me make it, please let me make it, don't take me away from him, please let me get to him... That's all I want, that's all I want, that's all I want...

My sharp eyes zoned in on a hand that reached out for me, and suddenly, I was as calm as day break.

It seemed like all my thoughts, along with everyone's whispers and the music... all of the people that surrounded us...

Everything suddenly disappeared, like a single strike of lightening...

Like God had made his second appearance and had taken away every single person in this entire world, but me and him...

Not a single sound passed by me now.

All was silent.

All was still.

All was motionless.

And all I saw was him.

My perfect man, who was one foot away from me now, with an extended pale hand waiting for me to take.

Bronzed hair, which was spiked in the front and had delicate curls throughout the tips, matched with overwhelming eyes and a breathtaking smile, not to mention a beautifuly angelic pale face that matched my complexion perfectly... He was there, he was real... My equal.

Priest McClark, cleared his throat, "Dearly Beloved, we are gathered together here in the sign of God to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony, which is commended to be honorable among all men; and therefore – is not by any – to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly – but reverently, discreetly, advisedly and solemnly. Into this holy estate these two persons present now come to be joined. Marriage is the union of husband and wife in heart, body and mind. It is intended for their mutual joy – and for the help and comfort given on another in prosperity and adversity. But more importantly – it is a means through which a stable and loving environment may be attained. Through marriage, Edward Anthony Cullen and Isabella Marie Swan make a commitment together to face their disappointments – embrace their dreams – realize their hopes – and accept each other's failures. Edward and Isabella will promise one another to aspire to these ideals throughout their lives together – through mutual understanding – openness – and sensitivity to each other..."

Edward and I smiled, and I felt the anticipation of taking his hand growing stronger, but I fought back the urge, as the priest continued.

"We are here today – before God – because marriage is one of His most sacred wishes – to witness the joining in marriage of Edward Anthony Cullen and Isabella Marie Swan. This occasion marks the celebration of love and commitment with which this man and this woman begin their life together. And now – through me – He joins you together in one of the holiest bonds... Who gives this woman in marriage to this man?"

I smiled and imagined my father handing me over to Edward, when I handed the photo over to Carlisle. Carlisle grinned, before turning to Priest McClark, "Her father Charlie, and I as well, do."

Then, he placed my hand and into Edward's warm-as mine,... And I was safe...

I never felt more safer and reassured than I did in that very second.

His smile, his expression, his warmth... everything was identical to mine.

Priest McClark continued, "Edward and Isabella, in presenting yourselves here today to be joined in marriage, you perform an act of faith. This faith can grow and develop and last, but only if you both decide to make it so. A lasting and growing love is not guaranteed by any ritual. If you would have the foundation of your marriage be the devotion you have for one another, not just at this moment, but for all the days to come, then treasure the hopes and dreams that you bring here today. Establish that your love will never be blotted out by the common nor obscured by the ordinary in life. Faults will surface where now you find comfort, and admiration can be shattered by the routine of daily life. Dedication, love, and joy can grow only when you nourish them together. Stand fast in that hope and confidence, having faith in your shared destiny just as strongly as you have faith in yourselves and in one another today. Only with this spirit can you forge a union that will strengthen and endure all the days of your lives..."

We grinned warmly at each other, while Edward's thumbs began to stroke lightly on the top of my hand.

"As per request, Edward and Isabella have decided to write and deliver their own vows... Edward, you may start first."

Edward smiled crookedly at me, as my hands began to shake in his. He took a deep breath, before the most beautiful voice came from his perfect lips...

"Isabella Marie... A beautiful woman by the name of Elizabeth Masen once told me, that people come into your life for a reason, and only stay for as long as they are needed. Since your beauty and grace has entered my life, you have provided me with undeniable strength, everlasting courage, selfless honesty, and undeniable love. We've already experienced so many challenges, some good and some bitter, and before those, I always thought that I was strong enough and brave enough to handle anything. Over the years I have learned that it wasn't just me, but it is from US that I had gained my courage, my strength and my conviction... I wouldn't be the man today if it wasn't for you..."

I felt my lip quivering, my palms trembling, and my chest aching with joy as he continued in his beautiful sing-song voice...

"...As I look at you now, you make it so easy to love you - your inner glow, your gorgeous smile, your loving eyes, the way people are drawn to you and especially the way you look at me. Each morning, when my eyes find your presence, I look at you and I see love looking back... You are already my best friend, my companion and my soul mate, but today, I take you as my wife. All I have to offer is me, my life and all that you will help me become. I would not be complete if you were not with me. Where there has been cold, you brought warmth; where my life was dark, you brought light. In my darkest trouble, in my coldest silence; I looked for you and you were there. You may not realize it, but you have helped and saved me in so many ways. I am honored that you will have me as your husband and I am proud to have you as my wife. I believe that we were meant to be from the start, I will always love you with every ounce of my being, every strum of my heart, and every inch of my love. And I will NEED you forever."

I took a few deep breaths as he finished, while my body shook with tremors. Why oh why did he have to go first? Now I'm not even able to speak!

I cleared my throat and looked down to our hands, admiring momentarily how delicately he held mine, how passionately his thumb ran across the back of my hands... How calm he was...

Closing my eyes, I blocked out the waiting friends and family, and tried to regain my strength.

"I love you," Edward whispered low that only I and the Cullen's could hear.

I opened my eyes and found his, and my heart began to melt all over again. I mouthed "I love you too," but couldn't really say it yet... I didn't trust my voice.

The priest waited patiently for me, and it seemed like it took a good couple minutes before I could speak again.

Taking a deep breath, and allowing my voice to be shakey and slow, I began.

"Edward Anthony Cullen... Looking back I can't remember a time that I wasn't in love with you. I started to love you the very first moment I laid eyes on you. Your passion and your energy have and continue to inspire me in ways I never thought possible. You have given me purpose at times when I felt I have none. Today I marry you as my best friend, my lover, my partner in life and my one true love. When you smile at me, I feel beautiful... You make me laugh like no one else can. When I am wrapped in your arms I feel safe, because you are my shelter and my rock. When I'm with you, I am home. I love you completely; not only for who you are, but also for who I am when I'm with you. You accept and love me as I am, but you provide me with freedom and encouragement for me to grow. ...I am a better person because of you..."

My body began to tremble, but I forced my eyes to stay on his while I continued.

"I know there's nothing we can't work through together. I am thankful for every day that you were brought into my life and I thank you for loving me unconditionally. I promise to always be honest and fair to you. I will trust you, respect you and support your dreams. I will always be there for you and for our married life together, as your happiness is essential to my own. As I have given you my hand to hold, I am giving you my life to keep. I give you all that I am and all that I will become. I choose to love you faithfully and forever. This is my promise to you on our wedding day and for each day that follows. For love would have no meaning without you."

We could hear the crowd murmuring and sobbing, but our focus never left each other's.

And again, I felt nothing but warmth and comfort echoing from him... Jasper's mind-voodo wasn't needed at this moment.

Priest McClark began again, "Will you, Edward, take Isabella to be your wife – to live together after God's ordinance – in the holy estate of matrimony? Will you love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health, for richer, for poorer, for better, for worse, in sadness and in joy, to cherish and continually bestow upon her your heart's deepest devotion, forsaking all others, keep yourself only unto her as long as you both shall live?"

Edward smiled and beautifully sang, "I will."

"And will you, Isabella, take Edward to be your husband – to live together after God's ordinance – in the holy estate of matrimony? Will you love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health, for richer, for poorer, for better, for worse, in sadness and in joy, to cherish and continually bestow upon him your heart's deepest devotion, forsaking all others, keep yourself only unto him as long as you both shall live?"

I took a deep breath, trying to find my voice again, "I-I will."

"What tokens of your love do you offer?"

"Two rings," Edward answered, as Carlisle, his best man, handed it to him, which he passed to the priest.

"May these rings be blessed as the symbol of this affectionate unity. These two lives are now joined in one unbroken circle. Wherever they go – may they always return to one another. May these two find in each other the love for which all men and women year. May they grow in understanding and in compassion. May the home which they establish together be such a place that many will find there a friend. May these rings on their fingers symbolize the touch of the spirit of love in their hearts."

I watched as he handed my solid silver band back to Edward, and asked him to repeat after him.

Edward smiled as his perfect finger brought the ring to linger over my finger, "I, Edward, take you, Isabella, as my friend and love, beside me and apart from me, in laughter and in tears, in conflict and tranquility, asking that you be no other than yourself, loving what I know of you, trusting what I do not know yet, in all the ways that life may find us..."

I watched and trembled as he placed the ring onto my finger, where it would remain forever.

Edward continued to repeat after the priest, saying, "Isabella, I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the name of God. I love you."

I smiled as he brought my hand up to his lips, giving it a gentle kiss, before bringing it back down.

"Now Isabella, please repeat after me."

I took a steady breath, and began my words, "I, Isabella, take you, Edward, as my friend and love, beside me and apart from me, in laughter and in tears, in conflict and tranquility, asking that you be no other than yourself, loving what I know of you, trusting what I do not know yet, in all the ways that life may find us..."

I slid the platinum, stainless steel, silver, double-lined ring onto his finger, where it would remain forever.

"Edward, I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the name of God. I love you."

Priest McClark smiled as his hand rested over both of ours, "May you always share with each other the gifts of love – be one in heart and in mind – and may you always create a home together that puts in your hearts, love, generosity, and kindness first. In as much as Edward and Bella have consented together in marriage before this company of friends and family and have pledged their faith – and declared their unity by giving and receiving a ring – are now. But firstly remember to always be each other's best friend. What – therefore – God has joined together – let no man put asunder...

"With this statement made of love and trust, which we have just heard, I now wish you to greet Edward and Isabella as husband and wife – and may your days be good and long upon the earth... May this day shine eternally in your lives. May it add brilliance to every achievement and cast a divine light over any misfortune. May you care for each other in all sadness. May you give cheer to each other. May you give vitality to each other in all undertakings. May all that is virtuous, beautiful and honest, remain with you always and forever..."

I felt like my body was overwhelmed with tears, and for a moment... I thought they were going to come again.

It felt surreal, to know that always and forever... this beautiful, selfless, man... my only reason for existence... was mine... My husband.

He turned to face Edward, "Edward Anthony Cullen, you may now kiss your bride."

I beamed proudly as Edward's fingers cupped around my waist and he pulled me into his chest. I felt my lashes close, and then my body move and twist. My breath caught and I opened my eyes, and noticed that Edward had dipped me. I bit my bottom lip as I watched him come closer. Then my lashes fluttered shut again, and I felt the tenderly and compassionate he was enveloped in, as his warm and sweet lips pressed into mine. My hands wrapped around his shoulders and I clung to him while our kiss deepened momentarily, spreading butterflies that consumed my being... All I could think about was we belonged together now.. Truly belonged... We were officially one.

As his sweet breath swarmed my face, he pulled away and stood me up straight, while the crowd eruped into a roar of applause and cheers. He kissed me gingerly, applying two more kisses on the corners of my lips, before giving me a grin and twisting us around to face our audience. Esme was the first to find me, followed by Alice and Rosalie, while Edward and the Cullen boys shook hands and patted backs. However, through all the meetings of my human friends and their families, such as Angela and Ben... I took comfort in knowing that Edward was squeezing my hand with the same amount of vigor as I was squeezing his...

As it became Twilight outside, with the yellows and oranges cascading across the sky while Edward and I entered the reception hall after our pictures had been taken, we were overwhelmed with the romantic beauty of white fabrics and yellow candles and bold chandeliers that hung over our heads.

Twinkle lights or orange, yellow, and white led us down through our family and friends, and we still didn't release each other while we continued our meet and greets.

We had two matching identical wedding cakes, though one was more of a secret... They were both squared, had three-layers, which had chocolate and white sides on each opposite, which criss-crossed color swirls. There were also red roses decorating each layer.

I don't know how Alice pulled it off or if she just made it herself, but let's just say that one was edible only by myself and the cullen family, though it looked identical to the ones made for our human guests... We cut through the human one as tradition was kept, and we playfully shoved the disgusting battered mess into each other's faces, that way we didn't have to eat it and gag in front of anyone who may grow to be suspicious.

After that, I threw my bouquet, which landed in Angela's arms, which she seemed to be grateful for. Jessica, whom was invited only by generosity, was beyond pissed... Guess she's not marrying Mike anytime soon.

Next, Edward sat me on my chair in the middle of the dance floor, and twisted and winked at Mike and his brothers, before he dipped his head into my dress and planted a kiss on my inner-thigh, before trailing the lace garder down my leg. He smirked, flicking the lace gracefully over to Ben. "Thought I'd help Angela out," he whispered to me.

Following that, the sweet melodies cascaded around our friends, while Edward pulled me into his arms and led me out in the middle of the romantic dance floor. I took a deep breath while he pulled my chest against his, and the beautiful lyrics of 'Someone Like You' by Van Morrison swam over us.

Edward slid one hand down to the small of my back, while he held my right hand between our stilled hearts.

His golden diamonds blended into mine as we swayed effortlessly across the dance floor.

"How's your evening been so far, Mrs Cullen?"

I grinned as he whispered that into my ear, sending involuntarily shivers through my spine, "It's been wonderful, how about yours?"

"Completely irreplaceable."

His right cheek pressed into mine, and I closed my eyes, allowing him the will to freely spin and pull me around the dance floor.

His warmth and smell of mints and heaven intoxicated me with every move he made to squeeze me tighter... He could break every rib in my body at that moment, and I still wouldn't have pulled away from him.

I felt his lips brush along my earlobe and sighed, pulling my face away so I could look at him while we moved.

His hands dropped mine, so he could wrap them completely around my body.

I allowed my arms to hover over his, and I locked my fingers behind his back as well.

Edward grinned, placing his forehead to mine so we could be as close as possible, while the lyrics continued it's sweet cascade. I leaned my head up and stood on my tip-toes, kissing the tip of his nose, "You make me so happy. I know I say that a lot, but I want you to really know it."

His dazzling smile took presence on his face again, and he said, "Just wait until a million years from now... It'll only get better."

"You think so?"

"I know so."

He gave me a warm kiss while our family applaud, and then we were interrupted by Gracey tugging on my dress.

"Aunty Bellsa, may I dance wiff my uncle nows, please?"

"Only if I get him back," I said as I gave her a hug.

I sat next to Esme and Carlisle, holding their hands as all of our family and friends began to gather on the dance floor and move with the song.

Lifehouse's 'You and Me' came on, and my solid chest quenched lovingly as I watched him sway the little girl in his arms in a slight slow circle, watching her tip her head back, allowing full trust in him to hold her up, so she could bellow out a roaring laugh, just like her daddy Emmett.

Edward laughed and spun her around effortlessly, before lifting her up and taking her right hand in his left, and dancing with her gracefully and professionally.

He leaned in and kissed her forehead, and she blushed, her pink cheeks rising to a delicate human warmth. Then she placed her little head on his shoulder as her exhaustion began to take place, and he held her tight, swaying his niece from side to side slowly.

"So," Rosalie said as she sat on Carlisle's leg so she could be next to me, "how's the whole adoption thing looking so far?"

I smiled at her before returning my attention back to my husband, "it's... going. We're doing what we can... But we have to be patient."

"Are you looking more toward boys or girls?"

I smiled, "Edward wants a little boy."

"I know... but look how good he is with Gracey... he'd do good any way."

"Of course," I grinned, "he's Edward. He's good at anything."

"Do you... you know, think you'll tell the child in question about your identies..."

"We won't keep it from them, if that's what you're asking. We'll most likely be like you and Emmett, handle it that way."

"It'll work out, Bella."

"I know," I said, "I just... I'm so happy to have this life with him."

"I know you are, it's written all over your face."

I giggeld and looked at her bashfully, "Is it?"

"Oh yeah. You're an open book, dear sister."

We gave each other a hug, before Carlisle pulled me out on the dance floor.

Songs such as 'Book Of Love' by Peter Gabriel, 'I Love You' by Sarah McLachlan, 'Come What May' by Moulin Rouge, and 'I Only Have Eyes For You' by The Flamingoes provided the serenity we and our guests needed throughout the night.

I danced with Carlisle, then Emmett, then Jasper, then Esme... then Gracey... the list kept going and going until everyone had danced with someone.

Edward too had his fun share of women to twirl around the dance floor with.

Eventually though, he found me and stole me away. Once, to dance to 'Lady In Red' by Chris Deburgh, which he said was fitting due to my dress and ring and wedding theme...

After that, we opened a few presents - saving most for after the honeymoon - and after talking more with our friends, we had our final dance.

With that one, Edward pulled me away from Carlisle again, and safely back into his arms.

'Come Away With Me' by Norah Jones was our final song choice, since we felt it was most appropriate.

I felt that warm, secure bubble cascade over us as I glanced over my right shoulder, to see Emmett dancing with Rosalie, with Gracey between them. Gracey was sleeping on Emmett's shoulder, while Rose and Em hugged around her.

I tucked my arms under Edward's, curling my hands around to grip the back of his shoulders and press my chest into his. I pressed my forehead to his chin and closed my eyes, allowing the romantic and soothing piano and raspy romantic lyrics drowned me completely.

I thought about Charlie and Renee... I thought about our wedding that just happened, and his vows he read to me... I thought about everything and everyone... but mostly, I thought about him.

Edward moved me deeper into him, his warm arms surrounding me, and I buried my face into the right crook of his neck and closed my eyes.

We didn't have to say anything, our body language and the music said all we were wanting to say.

We knew we'd be together forever.

We knew we were soul mates.

We knew we were one now.

And we knew that now, as Mr. and Mrs. Edward Anthony Cullen, we were on the first second of forever...

...And we'd linger there for eternity.

So there we go, Chapter 23! Keep the reviews and compliments/suggestions/positive feedback coming in! They are always welcome.

ANSWERS TO REVIEW QUESTIONS/RESPONSES:

- Thanks to everyone who's continued to be faithful with their reviews per chapter, their positive feedback, advice, and their constructive criticism, etc. It's been amazing and so enjoyable to come home from a long day's work and see the number rise from people who enjoy the story just as much as I do! I can't say it enough: You're the best!

- One More Chapter guys... :( It will be as an Epilogue such... Again, thank you guys so much for every single word, review, pm, support, etc...
You've made this such an enjoyable experience for me... Words cannot describe.

- If you're in the mood for some drama, go check out my latest Edward/Bella fan-fiction "The Ex Factor", subscribe and review! Rated Mature!

Sincerely, Angela.