And so the curtain closes...

Chapter Forty: Contentment and Cadillac

I love you.

It's whispered in stolen glances and mouthed words as family and friends break us apart to wish us congratulations.

Esme's birthday my ass.

Cadillac and Daddy were smooth to plan all of this, getting me here just so Cadillac could propose.

I would've said yes if it was done in a cardboard box without a wildflower in sight.

"I'm so happy for you."

I spin around as a familiar hand taps me on the shoulder.

Alice!

I don't think, I just grab her in an everlasting hug, trying to contain my tears. She holds me tightly and all I can think of are the days we used to sit on my bed, cutting out pictures of Hollywood celebrities.

Before this was that and that was this.

"Wh-what are you doing here?" I ask, pulling away. I need her to convince me she doesn't hate me, that regret is all we'll have ever for each other.

"Cadillac settling down?" She laughs, stretching her face muscles into a wide grin. "I wouldn't miss this for the world." She's the same and yet she's different. Her long hair is pulled back in a tight bun and her features are now reflective of a woman.

"Where have you been?"

She doesn't say anything for a moment; she just lifts up my hand and studies the engagement ring. The princess cut is perfectly clear and swirled by tiny diamonds surrounding the top and bottom.

"Away," she answers quietly. "I'm sorry I didn't want to come to your therapy consultation, Bella. I was kind of fighting my own demons."

"Your own?" I question her, tilting my head to the side. Alice doesn't seem like the type to have demons. I thought the devil just reserved them for me.

"You drank, I … stole stuff." Her admission shocks me to my core. "I guess I had my own form of coping with being dirt shit poor…"

She glances down like she's ashamed, but I'm proud of her. It explains so much—how she always wanted what she couldn't have.

"But I'm getting myself together, you know?" Alice grins, the prospect of sunny days outshining the rainy ones. "I heard you were in college."

I smile brightly. "I am. It's great."

"That's awesome. Maybe next year that would be something I could do too."

I beam at her, thinking of how fantastic it would be for us to go to the same school.

"Congratulations, Bella." I turn on my heels and a handsome young man speaks to me in a friendly voice. "I'm Garrett, Heidi Saunders' husband. Well, Heidi Randell, now."

I reach out my hand, trying not to look surprised. What is Heidi doing here? When I look back, Cadillac is giving her a friendly hug.

"Nice to meet you."

"You as well. We were invited by Edward. Heidi didn't want to come and upset you," he explains. "She told me she treated you like shit in high school. Er, crap. Excuse my language."

Shit wasn't a strong enough word.

"Something like that," I mumble.

"She's a teen advocate now. She goes to schools and does motivational speaking about bullying. She's fantastic. Maybe you could come see her one day."

Yeah, maybe.

I just nod as Garrett turns to leave. "Well, it was wonderful to meet you. And congratulations again."

Just as he begins to spin on his heels, he takes a second glance at Alice and then back to me.

"Are you two twins?"

Alice and I both giggle.

I grin at my best friend. We look so much alike that people think we're sisters. Well, nobody in Forks really thinks that 'cause they all know us, but if strangers were to meet us, that's what they'd think.

And they do.

.

.

.

Nine months later…

"And do you, Edward Cullen, take Bella Swan to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and health, till death do you part?"

Cadillac smirks, dressed impeccably in his black tux. "This death you speak of ... does murder by cake count?"

The officiating pastor looks puzzled as I stomp on Cadillac's shoe with my bare foot.

"Ouch! I do … sheesh, woman, I do!"

Grinning victoriously, I turn back my attention towards the minister.

"Then by the power vested in me by the State of Washington, I now pronounce you man and wife. Edward, you may kiss your bride."

Finally.

Cadillac tenderly lifts my veil above my head and dips forward, kissing me on the lips. His tongue slips into my mouth, and we forget we are surrounded by the ones we love.

The kiss is warm and passionate, full of forever and evers.

The crowd cheers and doves are released into the cool May air.

Baby birds, fluttering their wings to freedom.

A collection of white balloons, dedicated in James' honor, float above us. But my heart doesn't sink, it rises with them.

"I love you, Dimples."

"I love you more, Cadillac."

More than you'll ever know.

Alice passes me my bouquet of lavender and pink wildflowers. I raise them in the air, smiling brightly as the sun shines down on us. We walk down the white aisle, hand in hand, and into the open field reconstructed for our special day.

It's been years since we were last here, sitting in this same field when he gave me my first wildflower and promises of a future.

I hadn't believed him then. Now, not a single doubt that we are anything less than perfect together whispers in my head.

Jasper guides us to the reception area, which is set up in beautiful light pinks and cream colors. He pulls out a silk covered chair for me to sit down.

Cadillac waits for his, but Jasper turns his head.

"Fuck you, dude. I don't give a shit that it's your wedding. You told everyone I was in prison. I live down the fucking street from you!"

Cadillac laughs, holding up his hands defensively, and drags out his own chair. "It wasn't me, I swear."

The true culprit walks forward, grinning and nudging me with his meaty elbow.

"Diggin' the dress, freshman!" Emmett says.

I glance down at my blush colored gown, layered with organza and tulle that fill my seat. White had seemed too dull. Jessica, who coordinated most of the wedding arrangements, said that pink meant contentment.

That's me.

I'm finally content.

"Thanks, McCarty." I try to give him a hug, but he's dragged helplessly away by Jasper, who continuously punches him in the gut.

He pleads to me for help, but I shrug.

That's what you get, liar liar.

Daddy walks toward our table with Esme and Carlisle. All three have red eyes, but they'll never admit it.

"I reckon I should say congratulations, Son." Daddy gives Cadillac a firm handshake, but he purposefully squeezes his hand too tightly.

"Ow!" Cadillac winces, shaking his arm back and forth. "Was that really called for?"

Daddy grins. "If I don't get some grandbabies soon, there'll be a lot more pain coming your way."

Esme swats Daddy on his chest. "Hush you. They just walked down the aisle. We're so happy for you two."

"Thanks, Esme."

"I love the cape, Bella."

Carlisle notices the red peeking out from under my dress. I tied the cape around my waist.

"I wish he could be here," I murmur, thinking about James. I can see him in my mind and I get the feeling I'm not the only one.

Carlisle points to one white balloon that lingers near our tent. "I think he is."

He smiles and it's a bit sad, but also happy at the same time. Bittersweet.

Alice bounces over in a white dress, dragging Rosalie behind her.

"Congratulations! You look great, Bella."

"You too, bride," I say sarcastically.

Rose giggles, staring at Alice's wedding gown. "I swear, I tried to talk her out of it. She said if you weren't going to wear white, someone had to."

"Stealing my thunder, Al?" I ask, pointing at her tiara.

"You know it!"

Emmett taps the microphone, getting everyone's attention.

"Before we eat, I would like to give a special speech for the bride and groom."

The tent goes silent as the last guests shuffle to their seats.

"First of all, thank you all for coming to Cadillac and Freshman's wedding. Even though you're all here to see them, let's not forget to give a round of applause for my money maker."

Daddy starts to clap and I glare at him, shaking my head.

Emmett chuckles as Cadillac wildly gestures for him to sit down.

"Hold on, Cad, I'm not done! I would like to say, for anyone who has known Cadillac, you know that he is a cool dude. He would do anything and everything for you, including bribing you with a car to stalk his girl. That's why I'm extremely happy he has found love with Freshman. Not only does she kick ass, she makes the best cakes, which you all will be enjoying today."

I grin proudly as Esme's face turns pale. I don't know why she looks so worried. Alice and I followed the directions step-by-step this time.

Step 5: Add eggs, one at a time, while stirring mixture.

That's exactly what we did.

We just dropped 'em in, shells and all. I think our guests will appreciate our hard work.

"So, let's give it up for the bride and groom! Oh, and for Jasper Hale, who isn't in prison but I think may or may not have done some time in the slammer…"

Jasper tackles Emmett, I laugh, and Cadillac sighs at his friends as a large steak is placed before him by a waiter.

"The Hamburglar," I lean over and whisper to him. "May he rest in peace."

.

.

.

"Seriously, no."

"Just one time."

"Cut it out, Cadillac."

"But we're in the Virgin Islands. I think that means something."

"It means if you try to stick your dick in my ass one more time, I'm flying home. Solo."

"Fine." Cadillac huffs and turns away, naked and pouting. "Just so you know, you're a con artist."

I grin.

I know I am.

"Where do you keep getting the wildflowers, Cadillac?"

He smirks, rubbing my shoulders. "I ain't telling you, baby bird. Let it go."

"I'll give you a hundred dollars." I'm broke, but details are the least of my worries.

"I have money."

I tap my chin, thinking of how to bribe him. "I'll bake you a cake."

"Er, no. I'm still trying to digest the last batch."

"Okay. What if I let you…" I whisper sexual escapades in his ear as his face lights up.

"They're in the forest," he answers quickly. "Make a left at the oak tree and follow the creek for two miles. On your right is an abandoned shoe. Walk ten feet and there you'll find the whole damn woods covered in 'em."

I giggle, finding his behavior completely ridiculous.

"Don't be mad," I whisper, letting my hands brush down his broad back. "I'm sorry I lied. Let me make it up to you."

Cadillac glances over like he's furious and then tackles me on the soft bed. "I'm kiddin', baby bird."

I bite my lip to stifle my laughter. "You better be. I thought I was gonna have to leave you here."

"You wouldn't!" He answers dramatically.

"I would so!" I taunt him.

"You wouldn't," he repeats. "I'd die without you, Dimples."

His tone turns serious and my hands freeze on his back. His gaze is locked on mine and I know he means every word. I look into his eyes as he's mesmerized by my curves.

"I'd die if I couldn't love you," he groans in a shaky voice.

A tightening in my belly makes me close my eyes. I inhale, trying to keep my grip on reality.

"Look at me," he orders softly. "Look at me so I can love you."

My breath gets caught in my throat as his fingers trace over my breasts. The sensations make me squeeze my eyelids shut more tightly. For a second, I'm caught up in this moment of silent tremors and souls that yearn for each other.

I force my eyes to flutter open until all I can see is him. His green eyes are full of lust as he brushes over my warm skin.

"Watch, baby bird." He cups my breasts in his hands, touching every inch of my curves. Tingling sensations shoot through my body as my husband adores me with sweet touches. He lowers his body down, pushing my breasts together.

I sink, but it doesn't feel a thing like drowning.

I whimper as his tongue darts out, teasing and sucking on my nipples. I try not to writhe underneath him, but I can't help it as his warm breath blows across my skin. He sucks away until we're both starving with need.

His hands slide down my chest and across my ribs, gently stroking as he kisses bits of me.

Moaning, I beg for him to continue.

Don't leave me wanting.

I need more.

I need you.

"Look at how you break me." His eyes stay fixed on me and my nails dig into his back. All of his love makes me tear up. My heart pounds in my chest as he gently parts my legs, feeling the silkiness of my smooth skin. Cradling me, he moans deeply as we join together in a bone shattering movement. My pelvic clenches around him as he stretches and takes me.

Slow and heavy.

Fast and light.

It's not just his body, but his heart that's pulling me to him.

I can tell Cadillac's trying to be gentle, trying to give me a honeymoon filled with romantic notions. It disappears out the window when he thrusts, burying his head against my shoulder.

I'm already fading away, rocking to his slow rhythm.

"Watch how you make me whole." He kisses me wildly and sincerely, babbling words I can't understand. I hug him closely, desperate for him to go faster.

To go deeper.

"See how I'm nothing." My hands twitch as he fiercely pounds me into the soft covers, getting my hair caught in his fingers. I relish the pain and I watch him shake, thrusting into me over and over again. The bed quakes against the hardwood floors, and I'm plummeting in this loving torment. My world shifts around me as my brown eyes meet his green ones.

"Look at how you make me everything." He knows I'm on fire and enjoys burning me alive. I'm consumed by his gaze as the pleasure becomes unbearable. It intensifies, released by moans and cries that force themselves out of my mouth. I say nothing.

I scream everything.

I've spent a lifetime pretending to be someone I'm not. I've dreamt of lives that can't be lived. I've fantasized about leaving when I should have stayed.

But in this moment, I am the epitome of swirling happiness.

I am baby birds and clouds and a sweet girl with dimples that gazes at the sun.

I am because of him.

On the edge I fall. But with Cadillac, I fly. With a final lunge, he drives into me, releasing himself as I bite the skin on his neck. We sink together.

Down.

Down.

Down, we go.

He sweeps his arms upward, holding me in place.

"Did you look, Dimples?" His breathy words whisper down my neck, and I'm anxious to read his thoughts.

I'll tell him anything he wants to know.

I'll tell him everything.

"I saw," I answer, running my fingers through his hair. "And I always will."

Cadillac's hand travels aimlessly down my arm.

I don't know where to lead him, but he's making his own path. It's going up mountains, through valleys, and right into my heart.

.

.

.

5 years later…

I stand at the ice cream stand, trying to grasp my daughter's hand. Her bare feet tumble around me as she giggles and kicks up dirt. Her plump legs dance around me, bouncing with an energy I wish I had.

"Jameson Lynne! You stop that right now!"

She ignores me, her brunette pigtails bouncing from side to side. She glances up at me with wide, fresh-as-dew-jelly-bean green eyes.

I pretend to look at the handwritten menu taped to the glass, but I already know what I want.

"Two strawberry cones, please."

"Spwinkles, Mommy." She complains, poking out her bottom lip. "I want spwinkles."

I tell her they're a dollar more, but she isn't listening. She's staring at the little boy next to her licking a huge sundae with whipped cream dripping down the side of the plastic dish.

"That'll be 5.00."

I pat my shorts, only pulling out a sixth year sobriety button. I curse, realizing I've left my cash somewhere.

At my office? No, Dr. Aro would have called me. As a therapy supervisor, I'm careful not to leave any of my belongings lying around at Riverside.

I do my best to kneel down to my daughter. "Honey, do you have the money Daddy gave you?"

Jameson Lynne grins widely. "Nope."

Of course not.

The young cashier brushes back her blonde hair, staring at me because I'm holding up the line.

"I said, that'll be 5.00." She pops her bubble gum impatiently, tapping her pencil on the counter.

"I'm sorry," I apologize, embarrassed to cancel our order. "I must have left my wallet at home."

"I've got it, Dimples. Lady, you can keep the change." An arm reaches between my daughter and I, passing a ten dollar bill through the slot.

I turn around, grinning at my husband.

Cadillac.

Maybe one of these days I'll call him by his God-given name.

He sweeps Jameson Lynne into his arms, tickling her belly. "Did you hide Mommy's wallet again?"

"Nooo…" She giggles and he kisses her chubby cheeks. "I weally, weally didn't."

She's such a liar.

The lady passes our ice creams through the open window and Cadillac takes a lick of mine.

"Hey!" I protest, swatting at him. "What are you doing here?"

He's not the kind to just hang around for no reason. He's the type of man my Daddy loves so much, sometimes he chooses him over me. I smell his expensive cologne lingering, but I don't mind. He wipes his red bandana across his forehead, sweeping back hair that he never brushes.

I like it though.

"Charlie and I have a meeting, so I'm on my way to work. I thought it was you two on the side of the road. Did my two princesses want dessert?"

Jameson Lynne squeals and wraps her arms tightly around his neck.

"I'm a pwetty pwincess!" she laughs. As her innocent eyes stare at Cadillac, I feel what he sees.

He chuckles, placing her on the ground.

"I gotta go, baby," he apologizes, kissing me on the lips. "See ya this evening, Pumpkin Smuggler."

He starts to turn away, in a rush for his job. I let him go 'cause I know he's running late. I tug on Jameson Lynne's hand and walk towards our car.

We get a few feet, but I just gotta ask. I yell back to him, just as he's climbing in his baby blue caddy.

"Hey! Why'd you call me that? I don't have any pumpkins!"

He smirks. I see it, even though the sun is blinding us and the ice cream stand is getting further and further away. .

He doesn't answer, but Jameson Lynne touches her cold fingers to the roundness of my swollen belly.

"I don't think he meant weal pumpkins, Mommy."

~~~~~~~~~The End~~~~~~~~~~

Blueeyedcherry – For not having a Beta heart attack every time I used the word "ain't" and "ya'll", I appreciate you. You stayed up many, many late nights and I'll be damned if a day goes by without me telling you how awesome you are. #HoboLuva

Mia Isabella Cullen- We laughed together, we cried together. Sporks were thrown and history was made. I still owe you a purple car. It's on the way. Just put in the batteries first. #WeForkTilWeDie

Cinnynala- You do know I call you cinnamon behind your back, right? It's only fair. We have a thing for food around here. #SecretBetaNinja

READERS- There should be some profound thing I say to you right now, but I can't. I'm so overwhelmed and grateful for every single review and PM, I don't know where to begin. This story doesn't even EXIST without you.

Most writers appreciate you. Me? No way. I love every single one of you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for sticking through the heartache and laughing through the joy. This story comes from a real place. If you read closely enough, you'll discover how I found my own Cadillac.

Live, love, and I'll see you soon.

XOXO,

TIRH