Disclaimer: All publicly recognizable characters, settings, etc. are the property of their respective owners. The original characters and plot are the property of the author. The author is in no way associated with the owners, creators, or producers of any media franchise. No copyright infringement is intended.

A/N: A big smacking kiss to everyone who participated in the BT readalong last Friday… and to the lovely SparklingWand for hosting. It was a lot of fun! Kisses also to everyone who's been reading, reviewing, and recommending this story… I so appreciate it! Sorry I've been bad about replying to reviews… I fell behind and am trying to catch up, I promise!

One reader asked if Bella's wedding dress was a little risqué for the time period. The dress, although not authentically from 1918, was designed as a tribute to the period. Although it may not have been a common wedding dress, it is not totally out of the realm of possibility. Ball gowns in particular showed a little more skin than you would typically think, including ankles and arms. There are some examples on my profile if you're interested… and you could also Google "Irene Castle", who was a popular dancer and actress at the time, for some examples of this. I chose to use those images as inspiration for Bella's wedding dress, because I just couldn't see her in high collars and heavy satin.

Thanks to my wonderful betas, Aecarlso and Tiffanyanne3 for their help… and to the fabulous GoSpikey and KatetheGreat13 for pre-reading.

Love, that outreaches to the humblest things;

Work that is glad, in what it does and brings;

And faith that soars upon unwearied wings.

Divine the Powers that on this trio wait.

Supreme their conquest, over Time and Fate.

Love, Work, and Faith - these three alone are great."

- Ella Wheeler Wilcox, American poet and writer, 1850-1919

Chapter 27 – Of Promises and Pleasures

"No way, Edward."

"Bella, it's tradition."

"I don't care," I huffed, my hands on my hips. "I'm not going to do it!"

Edward rolled his eyes. "I don't understand why you're making such a fuss over it."

"A fuss?" I screeched, clearing my throat to bring the decibels down a little. "I'm not making a fuss, Edward. I'm making a point. 'Wilt thou serve him and obey him?' Seriously? We're so changing the vows."

"Bella, we can't just change the vows."

I frowned at him. "Why not?"

Edward's mouth opened and closed a couple of times as he searched for a reply. "Because… they're the vows!"

It was the Monday before the wedding and Edward and I had just met with Reverend Hargrove to go over the wedding ceremony. Fortunately, the minister seemed to bear no ill will toward me for my erratic behavior when I'd first attended services with Edward and his family on Easter Sunday. I'd met him a handful of times since then, and despite his tendency to pound the lectern, shouting condemnation at his congregation while a crooked vein bulged on his forehead, he was a pretty nice guy.

The meeting was going fine until I read through the vows. Edward was watching me carefully, and when I came to the offending line I narrowed my eyes at him. He knew I'd have a problem with the "obey" part, but I guess he'd hoped it would just kind of slip by me. Edward looked away, swallowing thickly, and asked the reverend quietly if we could have a moment to ourselves. The minister walked out, leaving his office door open and I'd turned on Edward quickly.

"The fact that 'they're the vows' doesn't mean we can't change them, Edward," I argued. "I'm not talking about re-writing the whole thing, for heaven's sake… just taking out one little phrase… seven words. No big deal." I shrugged.

"But…" Edward stammered.

"I'll tell you what. I have a proposition for you," I offered, turning to him as a small smile lit my face. "If it's so important to you, I'll say it."

Edward cocked an eyebrow, immediately suspicious. "You will?"

"Sure," I said loftily. "Of course, I'll expect a concession on your part."

"What kind of concession?" Edward asked slowly.

I turned to him with an innocent look. "Oh, just a little thing, really."

"Bella…" he said in a warning tone, "I already told you that I'm not wearing a wedding ring."

Aggravated, I stood up looking down at him. "I don't understand why you have such a problem with wearing a ring."

Edward just shook his head. "Men don't wear wedding rings, Bella." I was surprised when he'd first told me that, but after examining many strangers' hands – which got me a few odd looks on the street, I might add – I'd come to realize he was correct.

"Just because most men don't, doesn't mean you can't," I pointed out.

"Except I. Don't. Want. To," he said stubbornly.

I glanced at the open doorway, then moved from my chair to perch on the arm of his, reaching over to play with the hair brushing his collar. "Don't you want the world to know you're mine?" I asked coyly.

Yeah. I did "coyly" now. I had no shame.

Edward just looked up at me with a smug grin. "I don't need a ring for that."

"But I'm going to wear a ring..." I tried really hard not to whine.

He reached up to grab my hand, kissing the engagement ring on my finger. "A fact that makes me exceedingly happy," he responded with a charming grin.

I fought a returning smile as I snatched my hand away and went back to sit in my chair. "Fine. No ring. No obey," I said gruffly.

We sat in silence for a moment, at a standoff. I heard a rustle of fabric and turned my head away pointedly, crossing my arms over my chest and deliberately not looking at whatever Edward was doing. I felt the heat of his body as he leaned over the arm of my chair to brush his lips along my ear.

"You don't want to obey me?" he asked huskily.

I swallowed, butterflies fluttering in my stomach at his proximity. "I… uh… think a marriage should be an equal partnership…" I stammered.

"Mmmm…" he murmured, his warm breath tickling my neck. "But… don't you trust me?" I felt his fingers slide under my hair, rubbing gently at my neck as he traced the shell of my ear with his lips and tongue.

"It's not about trust," I whispered, my eyelids growing heavy under his touch.

"Isn't it?" he asked quietly, his tongue flicked at my earlobe. "Don't you believe I'd only act in your best interests?" He sucked it into his mouth, biting gently before releasing it with a soft pop. "Don't you believe I'd never do anything to hurt you?" He dipped down to suck at my neck, his lips nipping lightly. "Don't you think I only want to see you happy?" I trembled at the low growl underlying his sweet words. "Content?" His nose trailed along my jaw line and he inhaled deeply. "Satisfied?" His mouth hovered at the corner of mine, and I fought the urge to turn toward his kiss.

"Bella, look at me." Exhaling a shaky breath, I turned slightly to look into his intense green eyes, my lips brushing his with the movement.

"See?" he whispered. "You can be obedient."

I blinked a couple of times, finally absorbing what he'd said… and the satisfied smirk on his face. I shoved him away, but was unable to hold back my laugh.

"Jerk," I muttered.

Edward chuckled. "Honestly, Bella. It's just tradition. It's not like I'd ever actually expect you to obey me unconditionally."

"Well, if it doesn't mean anything, why don't we put it in your vows," I countered.

Reverend Hargrove chose that moment to walk back into his office. "Is everything all right?" he asked.

"Fine," Edward said with a smile. "We just had a few things to discuss."

The minister nodded. "And have all the issues been resolved?"

I hesitated. I was still annoyed about the vows, but I didn't want to cause problems. I mean, they were just words, right? Edward knew how I felt. We loved each other. We belonged together. What harm could a few extra words cause, anyway? So I swallowed my pride, ready to promise to serve and obey. Even if the words kind of stuck in my throat a bit.

I noticed the reverend was watching me expectantly, waiting for my answer, so I nodded.

"Actually," Edward said, "we'd like to make a slight change to the vows."

I turned to gape at him, but he addressed the minister. "We'd like to remove the sentence about serving and obeying."

Reverend Hargrove frowned. "But… that's impossible."

Edward arched an eyebrow. "Why is it impossible?"

The minister stammered. "Well… it's just not done… the vows…"

Edward interrupted, waving a hand in dismissal. "Yes, I know… the vows are the vows. But we'd like to change them. It's just one sentence, Reverend. Seven words. No big deal." He turned to me then with a wink as he repeated my words from earlier.

I couldn't help it. My heart swelled and my eyes filled with tears as Edward reached out to take my hand.

"Bella is promising to be my wife… to love me and stand by my side for the rest of her life. What more do I need?"

It took a little more convincing, but Reverend Hargrove eventually relented unhappily, agreeing to strike the offending sentence from our wedding vows. Once the issue had been resolved, the meeting wrapped up quickly. We walked out of the office and into the church where I once fantasized about dragging Edward under a pew to have my way with him.

I eyed the rows thoughtfully, still intrigued by the idea.

Instead, I grabbed his hand, pulling him behind a large pillar and wrapping my arms around his neck before kissing him soundly.

Edward's arms circled my waist and he smiled down at me once I'd pulled back. "In a church, Miss Swan? Shocking. You truly have no shame."

I grinned at him. "Thank you, Edward."

His face grew serious for a moment. "You were willing to say it… for me… you would have done it, wouldn't you?"

I ran a hand through his hair. "Yes. I would have," I said. "Although I wouldn't have been happy about it," I added with mock irritation.

Edward laughed. "Oh, I believe that." His hands rubbed gently up and down my back. "I just want you to be happy, Bella. I just want to be with you." He leaned down to whisper in my ear again. "Besides, I have a feeling under the right circumstances, you'll be more than happy to obey me." He bit my earlobe again and I shivered.

"I have a feeling you're right," I whimpered.

Edward chuckled. "Oh, and Bella?" He continued to rub my back, and I felt my blood heating as it always did when Edward touched me.

"Hmmm?" I asked, wishing we were on our honeymoon already.

"I'm still not wearing a ring," he murmured. My eyes flew open and I smirked up at him.

"Noted," I replied, grabbing his hand to pull him out of the church.

x-x

The next few days flew by and before I knew it, it was the night before the wedding and I was having dinner with the Masens. Actually, I wasn't eating much. Edward sat next to me and every now and then would touch my hand or stroke my thigh under the table, making me blush furiously.

"Bella, are you all right?" Mrs. Masen asked after one such episode.

I choked down a bite of roast beef. "Fine," I replied, noticing Edward's smirk as he played with his food. "Just a lot on my mind, I guess." I reached over and pinched Edward's leg. He jumped and I tried not to laugh.

"Something wrong, Edward?" His father eyed him suspiciously.

A devilish grin lit Edward's face. "Bella just pinched me."

"Bella!" Mrs. Masen gasped in shock.

I glared at Edward. "I did not!" I lied, my red face giving me up.

Edward shook his head, addressing his parents. "She's really quite violent," he said, a serious look on his face. "I often fear for my life."

I would have let my head fall to the table in mortification if it wasn't for the plate of food in the way. Edward's parents looked from him to me in shock.

I wanted to die. After I killed my fiancé, of course.

Edward finally took mercy on me and started laughing. "I'm joking!" he exclaimed.

After a moment, Edward's parents smiled. I forced a chuckle, wanting to pinch him again.

"Honestly, Edward," Mrs. Masen admonished. "You shouldn't tease poor Bella like that."

Edward made sure both his parents were looking down at their plates before he flashed me another leering grin. "She likes it when I tease her."

I was pretty sure my face was going to burst into flames at any moment.

Edward's parents seemed oblivious, though. Mrs. Masen set her fork down and reached for her ever-present checklist.

"So, everything appears to be taken care of," she said, half to herself. "The flowers will be delivered at seven o'clock… the food shortly after that. Bella, did you put your dress in the guest room?" she asked.

I nodded, my stomach flopping at the thought that the wedding was less than twenty-four hours away.

"Good," Mrs. Masen nodded. Mr. Masen continued to eat in silence, as his wife continued down her list. "Edward, your suit has been cleaned and pressed. You'll need to pick that up in the morning after your haircut."

My ears perked up. "Wait. Haircut?" I looked over at Edward's tousled mess of hair. Hair I was really looking forward to running my fingers through while… Well, let's just say I really liked his hair the way it was.

"You're not really going to cut it, are you?" I asked wistfully.

Edward ran a hand through the unruly locks. "It's pretty unbearable, Bella. The pomade won't even control it when it's like this."

"Pomade?" I choked, stricken at the idea of Edward's glorious hair plastered to his head. "No… no pomade, Edward, please."

"No pomade?" Mrs. Masen shook her head dismissively. "Of course he has to use pomade. He can't attend his own wedding looking like a ruffian!"

"I just…" I began in a small voice, then cleared my throat and straightened my shoulders, speaking more firmly. "I just like your hair the way it is." I blushed again, of course, but Edward just smiled.

"All right, then," he said, his eyes soft. "No pomade… and just a trim tomorrow, to keep this insanity under control." He tugged at his hair again.

I smiled, all melty and lovey-dovey. Mrs. Masen started to say something, but Edward's father cut in.

"Abominable stuff… pomade," he said gruffly, buttering a roll. "Can't stand it myself. Smells like gasoline." He winked at me and I couldn't resist grinning back at him.

At that moment, I think I was in love with both Edward Masens.

"Fine," Mrs. Masen relented, and I could almost imagine her adding a "Whatever!" as she consulted her list again. "Oh no!" she exclaimed. "We haven't discussed who is going to walk you down the aisle."

"Well, actually, Carlisle has agreed to do that," I told her. I shot a sidelong glance at Edward. I'd told him shortly after Carlisle had agreed, but evidently, he hadn't mentioned it to his mother.

"Dr. Cullen?" she said blankly. "Your employer? Oh no, dear. That won't do at all."

I heard Edward shift uncomfortably in his chair. He had not been happy about my choice of Carlisle at first, but once again, his desire for me to be happy won out and he'd given in.

"He's not just my employer. Well, actually, he's not my employer at all anymore," I pointed out. "But that's beside the point. Carlisle is also my friend."

Mrs. Masen frowned. "Oh, but Bella, what will people say?" she asked, concern creasing her brow. "Even if he is your former employer… He's an unmarried man... and no blood relation. It just isn't done."

I bristled. If one more person told me what just wasn't done, I thought I might scream. I took a deep breath, unwilling to lose my temper at Edward's mother.

I didn't get the chance, though, because once again Edward intervened. "Mother, Bella and I have no interest in what people say. If she wants Dr. Cullen to give her away, then that is what's going to happen."

Mrs. Masen gaped at him. "Surely you're not all right with this!"

Edward reached out and took my hand in a show of solidarity. "Dr. Cullen came and spoke to me about it shortly after Bella informed me of her choice. He wanted to ensure that I would not be offended by his involvement in the ceremony."

"He did?" I murmured. Neither one of them had told me about that.

Edward nodded at me and squeezed my hand gently before turning his attention back to his mother.

"I assured him that we both wanted him to be involved. That as a friend of Bella's he was also a friend to me."

Once again, I found myself swallowing tears. I knew that Edward and Carlisle had had a rocky start, but to know that they'd both overcome it… as a gift to me… well, it was overwhelming, to say the least.

"Thank you," I whispered. Edward turned to me again, reaching out with his free hand to tuck a strand of hair behind my ear.

"He'll be giving you to me," he said quietly. "How could I refuse such a precious gift?"

Edward's father interrupted the tender moment, addressing his wife. "Dr. Cullen? Isn't that the rather pale fellow I met at the charity ball?"

"Yes, dear," Mrs. Masen confirmed.

"Good man," he declared. "Firm handshake." Apparently, that was an indication of your character. Who knew?

With that, Mrs. Masen sighed heavily, realizing she'd lost that battle as well. "What about the blue?" she asked meekly.

"The blue?" I looked at her in confusion.

Mrs. Masen looked frazzled. "Oh, you don't have anything old either, do you? Everything is new. Well, this won't do… this won't do at all!" She hastily got up from the table and left the room.

"What in the world was that all about?" Edward's father asked under his breath. Edward just shrugged.

I opened my mouth to explain, but Mrs. Masen swept into the room again, two small, flat boxes in her hands. She handed the first one to me.

"This is something old… and borrowed," she explained. I opened the box to find a delicate lace handkerchief, slightly yellowed with age.

"It was my grandmother's, on my mother's side," she told me. "She carried it on her wedding day and brought it with her from the old country."

I gasped. "Oh, I couldn't take this." I held it out to her. "I'd be afraid I'd ruin it… it's too special."

Mrs. Masen rolled her eyes. "It's just an old handkerchief, Bella," she chided. "I will want it back, though, so don't lose it," she added with a twinkle in her eye.

She handed me the other box. "You might want to open this one in private," she said, pink tingeing her cheeks. "It's something blue."

Curiosity getting the better of me, I cracked the box under the table and took a peek inside. I found a pair of silky white stockings and blue satin garters with lace trim. I turned wide eyes on Mrs. Masen.

"What is it?" Edward asked, reaching for the box.

"Never mind," his mother admonished him, her cheeks reddening a little more. "You'll see soon enough." She turned to me. "They're imported from France. I purchased them a year ago, but never had an occasion to wear them.

"And before you say you can't accept them… just don't," she said, a smile softening her words. Mrs. Masen curved an arm around my shoulders, hugging me gently as tears filled her eyes. "You're a member of our family now, Bella. Let us show you how much that means to us, all right, dear?"

I just nodded, choked up yet again. "Thank you."

"Right then," Mr. Masen said, pushing his plate away. "Enough of the crying. I'm sure we'll have enough of that tomorrow." I noticed, however, that his eyes were a little glassy as well. He scrubbed his napkin across his face quickly. "How about some of that strawberry pie, my dear?"

x-x

An hour later, Edward and I were standing on the front porch at the boarding house… in a scene reminiscent of our first date. I smiled at the memory of roller skating… and how frustrated I'd been when the day had concluded with a chaste kiss on my cheek.

"What are you thinking about?" Edward asked softly, running a finger down the side of my face.

I smiled. "Just remembering that first time we went skating."

Edward grinned. "I have a confession to make. I wasn't really that interested in skating," he admitted. "I just wanted an excuse to hold your hand."

I reached out and linked my fingers with his. "I wanted you to kiss me so badly."

"I wanted to kiss you so badly," he confessed. "I was just so incredibly nervous, and I didn't want to offend you. I berated myself all the way home for my cowardice."

The street was empty and we were hidden by the shadows of the darkening evening, so I laughed and popped up on my tiptoes to kiss his lips quickly. "Well, you definitely made up for lost time," I said flirtatiously.

He grabbed the back of my head when I pulled away, kissing me again more deeply. When he finally released me, I took a shaky breath.

"You're really good at that," I said with a silly grin.

He chuckled. "I can't believe that in less than a day I'll be able to do that whenever I choose." He ran his thumb across my lips gently, his eyes following the movement.

"Whenever you choose?" I repeated archly. "What if I don't feel like kissing you?"

Who was I kidding? I would always feel like kissing Edward.

Edward leaned in to run his nose along my cheek. "Are you saying you would refuse me?"

I gulped. "Maybe?"

His lips brushed my heated skin. "Maybe?" he repeated.

"Uh…" What were we talking about again? "Yes?"

"Don't make me go back to Reverend Hargrove and put 'obey' back in the vows, Bella," Edward threatened, but I could hear the laughter behind his words.

"Don't even think about it," I retorted.

He stood up straight, lifting our joined hands to his lips. "I love you, Bella."

I smiled. "I love you too, Edward. And you can feel free to kiss me whenever you like," I added generously.

He smirked. "I'll hold you to that."

He leaned in to kiss me one more time. "I should go. I'll see you tomorrow, right?" He narrowed his eyes at me, as if worried I might say no.

I grinned. "I'll be the one in the veil."

x-x

Surprisingly, I slept well that night… no tossing and turning… no horrible nightmares… just a deep, dreamless sleep that left me feeling refreshed and optimistic. I woke with a smile and a stretch to the smell of coffee and cinnamon drifting up from the kitchen. I dressed quickly and followed the delicious aroma to find Maggie frosting a pan of huge cinnamon rolls in the kitchen.

"Well, if it isn't the bride," she said with a smile, using her frosting knife to lift one of the rolls from the pan and onto a small plate.

"I hope that's for me, because if it isn't, I'm going to steal it from whoever it's for," I said with a smile, pouring myself a cup of coffee.

Maggie grinned and handed me the plate. The roll was still warm and the icing dripped down, making my mouth water. I sat down at the kitchen table and took a bite.

"Maggie," I moaned. "This is amazing. How come I've never had one of your cinnamon rolls before?"

Maggie set the pan aside and sat across from me with her own coffee. "I only make them on special occasions," she explained. "I think your wedding day suffices."

I smiled and ate my roll as we sat in companionable silence. Edward and I had decided we'd stay at the boarding house after the wedding. The house we'd be renting in Altoona wouldn't be ready for another week, and his parents had invited us to stay there in the meantime, but we both agreed we'd feel more comfortable at Maggie's.

"Are you sure you don't mind Edward moving in here?" I asked her.

Maggie scoffed. "The more the merrier, dear," she said with a smile. "And I have to admit I'm happy you'll be here a little longer. I'll be missing you when you leave for Wisconsin."

I frowned slightly. "I'll miss you too, Maggie. I won't ever be able to thank you enough for all you've done…"

Maggie interrupted with a wave of her hand. "Thanks aren't necessary," she said. "Just assure me you'll keep in touch. I'll want to know all about your new life… and you must come back and visit." Her words cut off abruptly and I was shocked to see tears in her eyes. I stood up quickly and circled the table to wrap my arms around her shoulders.

"Of course we'll be back, I assured her. You already told me we'd see each other again," I reminded her. She nodded quickly, brushing at her eyes. "I know… I know. Pay no attention to me. I'm fine."

I squeezed her shoulders once more.

"Now," she said briskly, patting my arm, "if you're done with your breakfast, you'd best be getting your bath. We can't have you late to your own wedding now, can we?" She picked up my plate and cup, taking them to the sink.

A few hours later I was standing in the guest room at Edward's house, looking out the window into the back yard. Samantha and Mrs. Masen had done an incredible job of transforming the area into a wonderland. They'd taken my dress as an inspiration, draping yards of white tulle between the trees and the folding chairs that had been set up in rows facing away from the house. Tucked into the tulle I spotted gorgeous arrangements of roses and tulips, as well as orange blossoms that filled the air with fragrance and fluttering white petals any time a breeze kicked up. An archway covered with tulle, pale pink and white roses, greenery, and baby's breath stood on a raised platform on the far end of the yard, a white runner leading the way down the aisle.

Many of the guests had already arrived and taken their seats. I spotted Maggie, Tom, Liza, and Jared… as well as Patty and some of the other nurses from the hospital. I rubbed at my finger absently. Edward had taken back my engagement ring because I wanted it to be my wedding ring as well… and my hand felt oddly naked without it.

"Nervous?" I looked up to see Samantha enter the room. She was dressed in her pink – sorry, blush – bridesmaid's gown and had a cluster of orange blossoms tucked in her hair.

I smiled at her. "A little," I admitted.

She crossed to me, holding out a small box, wrapped in white paper. "Edward asked me to give this to you," she said.

"How is he?" I asked, taking the box.

"Nervous," she said with a laugh, "but incredibly happy. He loves you so much, Bella."

I smiled softly, looking down at the gift. A card was tucked under a white ribbon tied around it. I pulled it out, unfolding the heavy stock and smiling as I recognized Edward's neat handwriting.

My dearest Bella,

I saw this and thought immediately of you… a hidden treasure I am so fortunate to have found.

I'll see you at the altar. I'll be the lucky fellow with the huge smile on his face.

All my love,

Edward

"Are you going to open it?" Samantha asked impatiently. "I'm dying of curiosity!"

I grinned, ripping the paper off the box and lifting the lid carefully. Samantha poked her head over to peek inside the box.

"Oh my, that's beautiful," she exclaimed quietly.

She was right.

It was a necklace… a single teardrop pearl on a delicate silver chain. I had been disappointed that I couldn't wear my watch locket with my dress. I had to agree with Mrs. Masen that they didn't really go together. Edward evidently had taken it upon himself to solve the problem.

I pulled the necklace out of the box, and Samantha helped me clasp it around my neck. I looked in the full-length mirror and couldn't keep the smile off my face.

"It's perfect," Samantha said admiringly.

My eyes trailed from the pearl, nestled just above my neckline, up to my hair, which fell in waves down my back, but was held back in front by the hair combs Samantha and her mother had given me. My veil was tucked under the combs and fell over my shoulders slightly. My dress had been altered and now fit me perfectly, hugging me slightly before flaring out in delicate folds from the satin sash. Mrs. Masen had added a cluster of pale pink roses to my waist and I wore the stockings and garters she'd given me under the full skirt.

I heard a throat clear and looked over to see Carlisle standing in the doorway, elegant as always in a dark suit and tie.

"It's time," he said quietly. Samantha gave me a quick hug and reached up to pull my veil over my face, then handed me my bouquet. She left the room, smiling at Carlisle as she passed him.

"Ready?" Carlisle asked, walking over to me.

"As I'll ever be," I responded with a shaky smile.

Carlisle examined my face carefully. "If you're having second thoughts…"

I shook my head quickly. "No… no second thoughts," I assured him. "Just a little nervous."

Carlisle nodded with a smile. "Well, good… because I'd help you escape, but I have a feeling that young man of yours would hunt me down if you disappeared."

I giggled slightly. "He'd have to catch you first."

Carlisle smirked. "True."

He held out his elbow and I tucked my hand into the crook of his arm. We walked out of the room together and down the stairs.

"Thank you for doing this," I whispered as we drew near to the French doors.

"It's my pleasure, Bella," Carlisle replied, casting me a sideways glance. "You look beautiful, by the way. Like a woman in love."

I blushed, but couldn't respond because we'd emerged into the back yard and all of the guests stood and turned to face me. My steps faltered slightly.

"Relax," Carlisle murmured quietly, reaching over to lay his hand on mine as I gripped his arm. "Just lean on me."

The harpist began to play the Wedding March, and Carlisle and I proceeded slowly down the aisle. My stomach was a mess of butterflies. I could feel my palms sweating. I searched for Edward, but couldn't see him at first. The flower arrangements and the people standing were in my way, and I felt a rush of panic. My heart began to beat erratically. I felt I couldn't draw enough oxygen into my lungs.

"Just a moment more," Carlisle said encouragingly. "We're almost there."

His voice sounded as if it were coming through water, and my eyes searched frantically through the crowd.

Edward. I needed Edward.

Then, with one more step, I saw him standing between Reverend Hargrove and his father. Tall and beautiful in his suit… his hair a perfect riotous mess… and the biggest smile on his face I'd ever seen.

I giggled, and if it were possible, his smile grew even wider.

Carlisle and I came to a stop at the platform and Reverend Hargrove began to speak.

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today in the sight of God, and in this face of this company, to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony, which is an honorable estate, instituted of God…" The words echoed around me, but I barely noticed them. Edward and I just stared at each other, lost in the moment.

"Who gives this woman to be married?" the minister asked eventually. I felt Carlisle squeeze my hand, and I released his arm with a sheepish smile. He lifted my veil, then took my hand and offered it to Edward.

"Be happy," he whispered before stepping back to take his seat. I stepped up onto the platform, holding Edward's hand tightly and handing my bouquet to Samantha.

The reverend continued the ceremony, but everything around me faded away. It was just Edward and me… our right hands joined, looking into each other's eyes… promising to love each other.

"I, Edward, take thee, Isabella…"

"I, Isabella, take thee, Edward, to be my lawfully wedded husband…"

Our quiet voices lifted on the gentle breeze, floating around us as orange blossoms filled the air.

"…to have and to hold from this day forward…"

"…For better, for worse, for richer, for poorer…"

I heard the quiet sounds of sniffling and realized I was crying. Through my tears I saw Edward's green gaze, intense and emotion-filled as his words rang out.

"…in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish…"

My voice caught as I said "sickness"… and I said a silent prayer for Edward's continued health. I couldn't lose him now.

"…'til death do us part, according to God's holy ordinance…"

Our final words were near whispers…

"…and thereto I pledge thee my troth."

Edward's father handed my ring to the minister, who handed it to Edward. He slid it onto my finger, repeating the minister's words.

"With this ring, I thee wed… with my body, I thee worship…" His eyes flickered up to mine briefly, and I could swear I spotted a devilish twinkle there. "…and with all my worldly goods I thee endow… In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost… Amen."

A slow smile lit his face as the minister led the congregation in a prayer. To be honest, I wasn't really paying attention. Edward still held my hand in both of his, rubbing small circles with his thumbs, his eyes locked on mine.

"Those whom God hath joined together let no man put asunder," Reverend Hargrove intoned in a loud voice. "For as much as Edward and Isabella have consented together in holy wedlock, and have witnessed the same before God and this company… and thereto have given and pledged their troth, each to the other… and have declared the same by giving and receiving a ring, and by joining hands; I pronounce that they are man and wife, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen."

Edward and I grinned at each other as the guests began to applaud.

"Edward," the minister said, nodding at him slightly, "you may now kiss your bride."

Edward blinked slowly, as if coming out of a daze, then leaned toward me, cupping my face with his hands, his fingers threading gently in my hair. He kissed me softly, and I sighed into his slightly parted lips. He pulled back slightly, then kissed me once more before he smiled in awe.

"I love you, Mrs. Masen," he murmured quietly. I grinned up at him, my face flushing… but not caring one little bit.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Reverend Hargrove announced in a loud voice, "it is my pleasure to introduce Mr. and Mrs. Edward Masen!"

We turned to face the guests and Edward pulled my hand through his bent elbow. I looked up at him and gasped at the joy I saw on his face. His eyes were shining, his smile wide, and he chuckled slightly.

He was beautiful. He was perfect. He was all mine.

His father touched his shoulder and Edward turned to shake his hand. Then the guests began coming forward, hugging and congratulating us.

We did it. We were married.

I was Edward's wife.

Holy shit. I could hardly believe it.

Before I had even realized what had happened, the rows of chairs had been rearranged around tables and a band had set up on the platform where Edward and I exchanged our vows. We dined on poached salmon and tender vegetables, but I barely tasted anything. I was surrounded by Edward.

We cut the cake… shared a toast… and danced under a darkening sky.

"Did I mention you look incredibly beautiful, Mrs. Masen?" Edward asked.

I smiled. "Yes, you did; several times, in fact. Thank you. And thank you for the necklace," I added, fingering the pearl before returning my hand to his shoulder. "It's beautiful. I love it."

"I love you," he said matter-of-factly, "and you're very welcome, Mrs. Masen." He grinned, pulling me a little closer as we twirled around.

I giggled, holding him tightly. "Are you going to call me Mrs. Masen from now on?"

Edward looked thoughtful. "I'm not sure, Mrs. Masen. I just might." He leaned in to kiss me. "I do like the sound of it… Mrs. Masen." His voice dropped on the name suggestively and I found myself shivering slightly.

"Can we leave yet?" I asked shakily.

Edward smirked. "Soon, my love."

We danced a few more times – Edward with his mother, then Samantha… me with Edward's father, then Tom. We laughed with our guests and enjoyed the evening… although now and then I'd catch Edward gazing at me intently, his eyes dark and inviting… and I'd feel my blood heat.

Finally, as I chatted with Patty, I felt Edward's heat alongside me, and he leaned down to whisper in my ear.

"Are you ready to leave?"

Um… Yes, please. I practically jumped from my chair. Patty and the others giggled as Edward took my hand.

We made our way to the front of the house slowly, following behind the crowd. They lined the front walk and Edward held my hand tightly.

"Ready?" he asked, grinning.

"Let's go!" I replied, and we took off running toward the car, under a shower of rice. Edward pulled the passenger door open for me, and I stopped before I got in to toss my bouquet over my shoulder. I whirled around to see Samantha clutching it tightly, a wide smile on her face. I waved to her and got in the car.

I kept waving as Edward drove away, only turning to face forward once the house was out of sight.

Edward grabbed my hand, kissing the back of it softly. "Happy?" he asked.

I pulled his hand to my lips, planting a smacking kiss on it playfully. "Ecstatic," I replied.

We weren't going on an actual honeymoon, since we'd be moving away in just a little over a week. Instead, we would be spending two nights at the Palmer House, the hotel where we'd attended the charity ball, before moving into the boarding house.

Edward pulled to a stop in front of the hotel and parked the car. He rounded the hood, pulling my door open and helping me out before retrieving our bags from the backseat. He smiled, swallowing nervously as we walked into the hotel lobby.

A bellboy took our bags after Edward checked in, proudly signing "Mr. and Mrs. E. A. Masen" in the hotel registry. He took my hand as we followed the bellboy into the elevator.

Our suite was elaborate, and I gasped in surprise at the luxurious surroundings. The bellboy walked across the room to open the heavy drapes, revealing a sparkling view of downtown Chicago. A bottle of champagne sat on a low table, along with a card addressed to us. I opened it as Edward tipped the bellboy and followed him out, closing the door and locking it with a low click.

"It's from your parents," I told him as he walked toward me.

He nodded. "The suite is a wedding gift from them as well."

"That's very generous," I said nervously, feeling the tension in the room now that we were alone.

Alone for the first time. Totally. Completely. Alone.

He picked up the champagne from the table, his hands shaking slightly. Maybe I wasn't the only one who was nervous.

"Would you like some?" he asked.

I nodded and he opened the bottle, pouring us each a glass. After handing one to me, he clinked the glasses together lightly. I smiled and sipped the cool champagne, the bubbles tickling my nose… and other things tickling… in other places. He leaned in to kiss me softly, and I could taste the sparkling wine on his tongue… his proximity making me dizzy… more intoxicating than the alcohol in my glass.

"Edward," I whispered.

"I love you, Bella," he replied, leaning in to kiss me again.

I pulled back slightly, knowing if I didn't, we'd end up on the living room floor… and there were things I need to do first.

"I…uh… should go change," I said quietly.

Edward nodded, his ears turning pink, and he took another sip of his champagne. I set my glass down on the table and picked up my bag, heading through the bedroom to the adjacent bathroom.

Once I got in there, I realized I hadn't exactly thought things through. Try as I might, I couldn't reach the buttons on the back of my dress. Flustered, I reached for the bathroom door. I pulled it open to find Edward standing on the other side, just a few feet away, leaning awkwardly on one of the bedposts. My hand flew to my throat.

"You startled me!"

Edward reddened. "Sorry. I didn't mean to." He looked at my dress. "Is… umm… everything all right?"

I rolled my eyes. "I can't get my dress unbuttoned," I explained. "Could you help me?"

Edward swallowed thickly and walked toward me. I turned around and, after a moment, felt his shaky fingers gently releasing the tiny buttons down my back. I could feel his breath on my hair and I closed my eyes, enjoying the sensation.

"All done," he said quietly. I felt him step away and moved back into the bathroom, closing the door. Slipping out of my dress, I hung it on a wooden hanger on the back of the bathroom door, along with my veil, and removed my stockings and underthings. I rummaged through my bag, pulling out my pessary. I'd had the forethought to practice inserting it, spending an hour or so locked in my bedroom with the birth control pamphlet, examining the diagrams inside before attempting to put the device in. I was kind of worried about whether I'd even be able to get it in since I was a virgin, but Eleanor had told me that if I was patient and relaxed, it would make it easier to insert it... and I might even be able to do it without breaking my hymen.

I knew that would be important to Edward... and the last thing I wanted was to get to the wedding night and be fighting with my stupid pessary.

Fortunately, it cooperated, and after I washed my hands, I slipped into the nightgown that Eleanor had given me. I ran a brush through my hair and studied myself in the mirror.

My face was flushed, as to be expected. I tied the sash at my waist, and the silk ribbon drawstring that held the neckline closed, and smoothed the chiffon over my very visible breasts. I pulled the ends of my hair forward, fluffing it over my chest, but it wasn't quite enough to hide my nipples. I sighed.

I was excited at the prospect of finally being with Edward… but I was also nervous as hell.

What if I wasn't any good at it? What if he was disappointed?

What if I spent all night in the bathroom and never lost my virginity?

I rolled my eyes at myself, squared my shoulders, and walked out of the bathroom.

Edward was sitting on the bed, looking down at his hands. His head popped up at the sound of the door opening, and then his mouth dropped open as he came slowly to his feet. He'd taken off his jacket and tie, and his suspenders hung loosely by his hips.

He was – in a word – mouthwatering.

And at that moment, he was staring at me, not saying a word.

"Ummm…" I began, my bravado fading as I fidgeted with the ends of my hair, trying to surreptitiously cover my boobs.

Edward took a step toward me hesitantly, then another, before reaching out to capture my hands. His eyes drifted slowly down my body, then back up again, his breathing shallow. My skin heated at his perusal and I bit my lip uneasily. Edward's eyes flashed at the movement, and he reached up with his thumb to pull my lip from my teeth… not saying a word before he leaned in to kiss me hungrily.

His hand moved to tangle in my hair, as the other wrapped around my waist, pulling me up against him fully. I gasped and he took the opportunity to dip his tongue into my mouth, causing goosebumps to prickle along my skin.

He pulled away, taking my hands in both of his and pulling me gently toward the bed. His eyes were dark… haunting… and they raked over me constantly. I could almost feel where they touched my skin.

"You are so incredibly beautiful," he murmured, lifting a hand to stroke my cheek, down my neck, and continuing down over my breast. My breath caught. "And you're all mine," he said, his voice almost wondrous.

I lifted my hands to tangle in his hair, thankful that the barber had not cut off too much. "And you're all mine," I reminded him quietly, lifting my chin to kiss him gently. He smiled and deepened the kiss.

With trembling fingers, Edward tugged at the drawstring at my neckline, causing it to gape and drop off one shoulder. His lips descended on my now bare skin, his tongue teasing it mercilessly. I reached up to unbutton his shirt slowly, my shaky hands making the task more difficult. Eventually, I was able to push it from his shoulders and lift his undershirt over his head. My hands drifted over the planes and valleys of Edward's muscular chest, and I couldn't resist pressing my lips to his heated skin.

"Bella," he moaned, pulling me close and devouring me once again with a searing kiss.

Our breaths grew shorter, our touches more frantic as we explored each other's bodies, pulling clothing away to revel in the skin and flesh beneath. We fell to the bed in a tangle of limbs, my nightgown falling to my waist, and Edward hovering over me, propped on his elbows. He reached down my leg, pulling the hem of my nightgown up until he could stroke my skin. His eyes fell to my breasts and he bent down, taking one peak into his mouth. I arched up with a gasp at the sensation. His hand fisted my nightgown and I felt him tugging it down, so I lifted my hips so he could remove it. He tossed it on the floor, and he released my breast to look at me fully.

I knew my blush had spread all over my body, but at the look of love and lust I saw on Edward's face, I no longer cared. His fingers trailed up my leg, up over my stomach, before coming to rest on my breast. He squeezed it gently, rolling the nipple between his fingers and causing a surge of heat between my legs.

"Edward," I whimpered.

"I love you, Bella," he replied huskily, leaning down to tease at my nipple with his tongue. I arched into his touch, writhing against the sheets as he tormented me.

"I want…" he began hesitantly. "I want to… touch you." I knew what he meant, and nodded frantically.

"Yes… please… "

His hand drifted down slowly, then stopped at my waist. I opened my eyes to find Edward watching me with concern.

"Edward? What is it?"

Edward's gaze dipped to his hand, then back up to mine. "You'll tell me… if I do something wrong? I don't want to hurt you."

I smiled softly at him, reaching down to touch his hand and pull it lower. "Don't worry," I whispered, "we belong together."

Edward's eyes drifted shut as his palm covered my overheated flesh. I gasped at the sensation and his eyes flew open.

"Are you all right?" he asked.

I pressed his hand more firmly against me. "More," I demanded quietly. Edward smirked and he moved his hand gently, brushing against the sensitive nub that made me cry out. His jaw clenched in determination, Edward explored with his fingers, every motion causing an increasing tightening in my belly. My eyes fluttered closed and my lips parted in an exhalation of pleasure when one slender finger slid slowly inside me.

I moaned, writhing against his hand, and Edward repeated the motion, his finger sliding in and out as the heel of his hand rubbed against me in a most delicious way.

"Don't stop," I begged shamelessly. "Please, Edward… don't stop."

His lips descended on mine as his hand continued its incredible torture, his mouth capturing my groans as the pleasure built inside of me. His hand quickened its pace and I arched back, gasping at the sensation. Edward sucked lightly at my neck before moving again to take my breast in his mouth, sucking deeply, then biting gently at my nipple.

"Edward… I… oh, God…" I rambled nonsensically, swept up in the building pressure in my body… twisting and turning higher and higher with every touch of Edward's fingers… every flick of his tongue. Edward added a second finger and brushed a spot inside of me that caused a tingle to run through my body. My eyes flashed open.

"God, what was that?" I mumbled incoherently. "Do it again…"

A look of concentration set on Edward's face as he tried to mimic the movement. After a moment, I felt it again.

"There… yes… there…" I moaned. He did it again. "God, Edward… that feels so good."

Edward quickened the pace, stroking that amazing spot and rubbing a little harder with the heel of his hand. The tingling was back… building and increasing with every stroke… causing every muscle in my body to tense and tighten.

"I love you, Bella," Edward whispered in my ear.

And I exploded… my muscles convulsed as white-hot pleasure shot through my body in wave after wave of incredible release. Edward continued to massage me gently as I rode the crest of my climax before I finally collapsed back onto the bed with one last moan of satisfaction.

I finally opened my eyes to find Edward gazing at me in awe.

"What happened?" he asked. "What was that?"

I giggled. "That," I said, leaning up to kiss him soundly, "was the most incredible orgasm ever!"

"Orgasm?" he repeated blankly.

I smiled at him. "You know… an orgasm… a climax?" I explained. "Like what you did in my hand at the boarding house?"

Understanding lit his features. "Ooohhh," he said. "I didn't realize that women did that."

I laughed. "Well, it's a little different, obviously, but very… very… pleasurable."

Edward grinned in satisfaction. "I did that… for you," he said proudly, running his hand over my stomach softly.

I leaned up on my elbows, reaching up to pull him down on top of me. "Yes, you did. And very well, I might add." I kissed him, then reached for the button on his pants.

"Now, I think it's your turn."

Edward was more than happy to help me with the task of undressing him, and in a few minutes he lay poised above me, his hard length pressed against my stomach. I reached down to stroke him lightly between us and Edward's eyes clenched shut.

"I want you, Edward."

His eyes opened and he kissed me deeply. "I want you, too. I just don't want to hurt you."

I lifted my hand to his cheek. "Just go slow. It will be all right."

Edward nodded and lifted his hips to position himself at my entrance. I took slow, deep breaths, preparing for the pain. Edward watched me carefully as he pressed forward slowly. He paused when I flinched slightly.

"It's okay," I assured him.

He continued easing his way into me and I forced myself not to gasp at the burning sensation. Finally, he pushed through, and I felt a sharp tearing that made me wince in pain.

"Are you all right?"

"Just give me a minute."

"Bella?" His voice was trembling.

"I'm okay. Just give me a minute." I closed my eyes and breathed deeply, willing myself to relax. I felt Edward, tense and rigid above me, and reached around him to stroke his back. He relaxed slightly, and the movement made me gasp.

"Bella?"

"I'm okay," I said, shifting my hips slightly. The pain was less and it almost felt… good.

"Try to move a little," I told him breathlessly.

He pulled out slowly, then eased back in, his breath escaping in a harsh sigh. The feeling of Edward inside me was amazing. I felt complete… whole.

"Are you okay?" he asked.

I bent my knees, tilting my hips up and Edward moaned. He jerked forward slightly and a shiver of pleasure ran through me. Slowly, I lifted my legs to wrap around him, pressing my heels into his thighs.

"More," I demanded.

Edward smirked and gave me more.

A/N: There's a picture of Bella's nightgown on my profile, for those who are interested. And it's true that it was unusual for men to wear wedding rings in this time… apparently it wasn't until the World War II that it became more common. As for the champagne, it's true that we are on the verge of Prohibition here, but I'm taking a little artistic license for the sake of the celebration. :-)

I have some craziness coming up at work for the next few weeks, which will unfortunately limit my writing time. I will be working on this story, but I wanted to let you know that my updates may not be as regular… at least for the next 2-3 weeks. I'll do my best, so thanks in advance for your patience. I'll keep everyone updated on the Twilighted thread (link on my profile), as well as on Twitter (Tkegl).