All things Twilight belong to Stephenie Meyer; all things in Masen's Pub belong to TwoTwiMoms

No copyright infringement is intended.

HUGE thanks to darcysmom for her unending encouragement and beta work and to elidunbigboot for pre-reading!

This is the FINAL chapter of 'What Fills the Eye Fills the Heart' – just warnin' ya.

Chapter 17

BPOV

"Do ye have yer passport, darlin'?"

"Yes, Edward. It's on the dresser right next to yours."

We had a little over a week remaining until we left for Ireland. Edward was getting ready to defend his thesis and I was getting ready to meet with Victoria. I'd completed the third and final book in the series I was contracted for and I was more than ready to hand the manuscript over to Victoria.

"Call me when ye finish with Victoria, will ye?"

"Of course. You're just meeting with your advisor right?"

Edward leaned down and softly kissed my lips.

"Yeah, why?"

"Just checking. I want to be there ya know?"

"Bella, darlin' … it'll be boring for ye. I'm not sure how long I'll be …."

"Edward, stop. I want to be there. I've always wanted to be there – even when I thought I couldn't be."

I had been so worried that I wouldn't be able to watch Edward defend his Master's thesis, but I was ecstatic when he came home and told me that it would be in front of a panel of four professors from his department and other Master's candidates plus one significant other were invited to attend as well.

"Do I count as a significant other?" I'd asked when he came home.

"Ye more than count, darlin'."

I slipped on my coat and kissed Edward once more before heading out the door to my meeting with Victoria.

"So this is it, huh?" Victoria smiled.

"Yep, that's it."

"So … what's next?"

"I'm taking a little bit of time off. Edward defends his thesis tomorrow and we're leaving for Ireland next week."

"Ireland? Wow, Bella. That should be an amazing trip. How long will you be gone?"

"Two weeks, and yeah it should be a really good trip. I'm looking forward to it."

"Good. How's Edward? Other than being worried about his thesis?"

I laughed.

"Edward's wonderful. He continues to amaze me every day. I never knew it was possible to fall so completely in love with someone and still fall for them a little more every day."

Victoria smiled at me.

"I'm so happy for you, Bella. Everything has finally fallen into place for you. All I ask for is an invitation to the wedding."

"I don't know if there will be a wedding … anytime soon anyway. We're not even engaged."

"Not yet, but I can almost bet you will be."

"How can you be so sure?" I asked, worrying my lip with my teeth.

"Edward loves you entirely too much not to want to keep you forever, Bella."

Edward and I talked about the future but we made no mention of a wedding or anything beyond that. I never told him about the few moments that I'd spent in Bruton Parish Church while I was on my book tour. I pictured myself walking down the aisle in a beautiful white dress and he was so handsome as he waited for me at the altar.

"Bella? You do realize that right?"

I briefly thought back over the past nine months. Edward and I had some perfect moments and some that were not so perfect – but they were ours and we spent them together. Alec and all the pain and aggravation he brought us wasn't enough to break us; it made us stronger.

After the fiasco in Chicago, Alec was sentenced to two years in Washington State Correctional Facility and was ordered to pay a $20,000 fine. The judge also ordered him to reimburse my health insurance company for all the costs incurred due to the injuries he'd caused. Alec also faces charges in Illinois once his sentence in Washington is completed.

"I know. I guess I still feel like it's all a dream. A part of me is afraid I'll wake up one day and it'll all be gone."

"I don't think so, Bella. I think you've found the real deal."

We chatted about our personal lives a bit longer before talking business and we agreed to meet again in mid-January to see how things were going with the outline for my new book.

"Angela would like to see a rough outline by the first of February. Is that doable?"

"I think so. I have what I want pretty set in my mind, it's just a matter of getting it into words and ironing out the kinks."

"I knew there was something brewing in that head of yours." Victoria grinned.

Later that evening, I surprised Edward by cooking his favorite meal and making an apple pie. I arranged for Jasper and Alice to tend the bar that night so that Edward could relax and prepare himself for the following day.

"Darlin', let me help ye with the dishes."

"No, Edward. You go and relax. Let me take care of you tonight, okay?"

"Bella …"

"Baby … this won't take me more than ten minutes. Now go, relax. Please?"

"Ugh … all right. Maybe I should check in on Jazz and Alice and make sure they're good."

"Oh ho, no you don't. The pub is fine, Edward. You. Couch. Now." I growled.

He sulked as he walked toward the couch, plopping down onto it and grabbing the remote for the TV. I quickly cleaned up the dishes and put our pie on plates and carried it over to him.

"Ye made me apple pie?"

"Mmmhmm. Still feel like sulking?"

"No. Thank ye darlin'. Have I told ye how much I love ye?" He asked as he leaned over and kissed me tenderly.

"Not in the last ten minutes," I giggled. "But I'm greedy. You could tell me that every minute of every day and it still wouldn't be enough."

Edward closed the gap between us and pulled me into his arms taking my plate and setting it on the coffee table.

"How about if I show ye at least once a day? Would that be enough?"

"Only once a day?" I pouted.

"You are a greedy girl. What in the world am I goin' to do with ye?"

I moved to straddle his lap and wiggled as close to him as I possibly could.

"Take me to bed and do naughty things to me …" I breathed.

"Feck …"

The next thing I knew I was in his arms and he was carrying me toward our bed. He set me on my feet and turned me around so my back was flush with his chest.

"Should I punish ye for being a naughty girl?" Edward murmured into my ear.

"Yes," I breathed.

Strong hands tugged at the hem of my shirt, pushing it up my torso until I raised my arms and let him lift it off of me completely. Gentle fingers traced back down my arms, across my shoulders to my neck before ghosting down my spine. I felt my bra clasp come undone and the same fingers traced back up the way they'd came across my shoulders and pushed the straps of my bra completely off as it fell to the floor in front of me.

Edward's movements were unrushed – tender. He grasped my hips and pulled me toward him again; flush against his warm body. Calloused thumbs ghosted against the waistband of my jeans before unbuttoning them and forcing the zipper down. He used both his hands to pull my jeans from my body – leaving open mouth kisses to the skin of my back as he went.

"Mmm … lace panties," he hummed.

Edward was fully aware that I preferred to wear my soft lace panties when I wore the skinny jeans he was so fond of. I loved the feel of the soft lace against my skin and it slid against the harsh denim much better than cotton. Edward loved the fact that I never went commando – he said he loved to peel off my jeans and reveal the prize underneath. Tonight's prize was navy blue lace.

He carefully helped me to step out of my jeans and he kissed his way back up my legs, my buttocks and my back. I felt him back up and I tried to turn and see what he was doing but he wouldn't let me.

"Uh uh, darlin'. Keep lookin' straight ahead."

I heard the rustle of clothing behind me and I could feel his breath on my neck as he brushed my long hair over my shoulder. He placed his hand on my stomach and pulled me back against his body once again and I could feel his erection against my backside. Edward's arms wound around me and he cupped my breasts in his hands, pinching at my nipples and pulling them taut with his talented fingers.

I arched against him pushing my breasts into his eager hands as his lips assaulted my neck alternating between nipping kisses and suckling. I tried to push down my panties so I could feel his cock against me skin on skin, but he wasn't having any of it.

"Get onto the bed; on yer hands and knees, darlin'," he murmured into my ear.

I crawled onto the bed like he asked, leaving my knees just at the side of the bed. Edward's warm hands drew circles on my backside before pulling the lace down my legs. He nudged my legs wider apart and returned to caressing me.

His lips left a trail of wet kisses along my spine. Edward gently pushed my body into the mattress as he aligned his cock where I wanted him most. He moved my hair, taking a fistful in his hand as he pushed into me. I closed my eyes reveling in the feel of Edward filling me completely.

"Gawd, darlin'. Ye feel so good."

Edward tugged on my hair, not too roughly, bringing me flush against his chest as he nestled deep within me. Our bodies were connected in such a way I thought we'd become one body. He kissed my shoulder and spoke softly in my ear in Gaelic.

"Edward …"

"I know, baby."

He began pushing upward hitting just the right spot and I pushed back meeting each of his thrusts. Our movements were urgent as we brought each other so much pleasure. Edward moved his legs opening me more as his fingers played with my swollen nub in slow torturous circles.

With just another swirl of his finger on my clit and a thrust of his hips I was screaming his name and Edward was spilling inside me. Our breaths were heavy as we both tried to catch our breath. I collapsed on the bed while Edward slipped from me leaving me empty. But I didn't have to wait long since he crawled beside me pulling me to him as he covered us both.

"I love ye, darlin'. Thank ye for tonight."

"You're welcome, baby. I love you, too."

The next morning, we were both up early. Edward's thesis defense was at nine, and we were up at a quarter of seven. I crawled out of our warm bed and made a pot of coffee while Edward was in the shower. I would have loved to have joined him, but I thought he'd appreciate the time alone to gather his thoughts and prepare himself for the day. I hoped that my presence didn't throw him off – I only wanted to go to support him.

I hummed to myself as I put together a quick breakfast for us both.

"Mmm … something smells good in here …" Edward hummed as he wrapped his arms around my waist and nuzzled my neck.

"Mmm, I think it's you, baby. Are you ready for today?"

"As ready as I'm going to be darlin'."

He was shirtless and only wearing a pair of soft, dark grey cotton pajama bottoms.

I giggled.

"Well, I don't think you're quite ready, baby. Clothes would help, unless you're going in front of a panel of women and then you've got it in the bag."

"Yeah …" Edward said nervously. "About that … I need yer help, baby."

He'd mentioned a couple weeks prior that he wasn't sure what he'd wear for his thesis defense. We went shopping and he tried on a couple suits. He owned a few nice shirts and a few pairs of dress pants and a couple of non-descript ties. He wanted to look professional but "not boring". We walked out of the store when he got frustrated because he just didn't know what he wanted. I went back the next day and purchased the suit that he looked best in and had it altered according to the measurements they'd taken. The suit was charcoal grey and I chose a pale green shirt with a grey and green paisley tie. I took Alice with me to make sure that my choices were spot on.

"Edward," I said softly. "Everything is going to be fine today. Sit and eat your breakfast and then you can get dressed."

I finished up my breakfast and set my dishes in the sink before going to my closet to pull out the garment bag that held his suit. I laid it carefully on the bed before heading into the bathroom for my own shower.

I had just shut the water off when Edward tapped on the door.

"Darlin'?"

"Give me a minute, Edward."

I wrapped a towel around my hair and another around my body before stepping out of the shower. I opened the door to the bedroom to find Edward standing in front of me nervously messing with his tie. He looked devastatingly handsome in his shirt and slacks even with the tie hanging loose around his neck.

"Baby …" I breathed. "You look so handsome."

"Thank ye for the suit, darlin'. Ye take such good care of me."

"You're welcome. You didn't think I'd send you in there looking like a bum did you?" I asked as I made a perfect Windsor knot in his tie.

"Sorry … Carlisle's showed me how to tie these stupid things a million times but I can't ever seem to get it right."

"You're nervous, babe, but what did you do before I came along?" I grinned.

"Ye know, I'm not sure how I ever survived before ye, darlin'."

We arrived at the University of Washington's Business Department at twenty minutes of nine. I drove Edward's car because he was so nervous - I wanted to make sure we arrived in one piece. I quickly took a picture of him in the front of the building before we made our way inside. While we waited, I texted back and forth with Esme, who was just as nervous as Edward. If everything went well, I had made reservations to meet her and Carlisle for lunch. I thought Edward might like to celebrate his achievement with them.

When Edward's advisor met us in the hallway, he smiled and led us into the small lecture hall as he explained a few things to Edward.

Edward turned to me and smiled as a few Master's candidates filed into the hall and took their seats.

"Please sit in the middle somewhere – where I can see ye. I might need somethin' to focus on."

"Edward …"

"Please, baby?"

"Edward, you're going to do just fine. You've got this. Now I'm going to go listen to my extremely intelligent and sexy boyfriend defend his thesis."

I kissed him chastely and squeeze his hand lightly.

"I love you, Edward. I'm proud of you no matter what," I said softly.

"I love ye too, darlin'."

Edward began at exactly nine o'clock and his speech ran for just under thirty minutes. He was clear and concise in pointing out his facts and business plan. Since he was currently a successful business owner he was able to use facts and figures from Masen's Pub to support his thesis. When it was time for the Q&A portion, Edward took a moment to form his answer and provided as much information as he could. He commanded the room; he was confident but not cocky.

The whole thing took a little over two hours. When the thesis committee had finished with their questions they commended Edward for a job well done. The committee told Edward that he was thorough and very impressive. They also congratulated him on the completion of his Master's. I was so proud of him that I couldn't hold back the few tears that fell down my face. Edward looked up at me smiling my smile and I beamed at him in return mouthing 'I love you'.

I quickly texted Esme, telling her that everything went smoothly and that I was looking forward to lunch.

"I wasn't too over the top?" Edward asked worried.

"No, baby. You were perfect. I'm so fucking proud of you."

We ate lunch with Carlisle and Esme. It was nice getting together with them – it wasn't often that it fit into Carlisle's schedule, but he could make it happen when it really mattered. I boasted about how well Edward did that morning and it was obvious how proud they were of him.

"Me sister sent him to me to see if we could help shape him to be a better man. Edward was always a good boy, but he got into a bit of trouble toward the end of his relationship with Aine. He's done nothing but make us proud since he stepped through our door and I suppose he'll continue to do so," Esme said softly, her eyes glistening with happiness and tears.

"I have to agree with my wife." Carlisle smiled. "Edward, the first time we met you were a precocious five-year-old. Esme loved you so much and I knew I'd love you too. When Beth called to see if we'd mind taking you under our wing, so to speak, we didn't hesitate even though I wondered after the fact if we'd regret it. Not a day has gone by that not only have I not regretted it, but I've thanked God for sending you to us. You've been the son we've always wanted but couldn't have on our own, you've become a friend and you've taught us a great deal in return – I hope you know that. I'm incredibly proud of you, Son. I love you, Edward."

I looked over to Edward and tears were falling from his eyes. I could tell that he was overwhelmed by Carlisle and Esme's lovely words.

"Thank ye, that means so much to me," Edward murmured.

Later that night, Edward talked to his parents and told them how everything went at his thesis defense. He got pretty emotional on the phone with them as well. It was obvious how proud they were of him. Edward handed the phone to me and let me talk to his mom for a bit while he went down and checked on the pub. Jasper had told him to take another night off, but Edward being Edward had to check in and make sure that everything was all right.

"So are ye excited about yer first trip to Ireland?" Edward's mother, Beth, asked.

"I am. I've always wanted to go to Ireland, I'd just prefer not to have to go alone."

"I don't blame ye, Bella. Travelling is hard enough, but to do it alone that's not easy."

We chatted for a while longer and I promised to email her our itinerary and send her a copy of the picture I'd taken of Edward that morning.

The next few days seemed to pass by faster than we could imagine. Edward worked himself to the bone at the pub so that Jasper could take a few days off before taking over completely while we were gone. Carlisle and Esme were going to come and work a few evenings to offer Jasper and Alice a bit of relief and Rosalie and Emmett promised to help out as well. Edward and I were fortunate to have such good friends.

While Edward worked, I got our things in order. I made sure that the loft was cleaned up and ready to go in case someone wanted to stay there while we were gone. I laid out all the clothes we'd need and got them organized in our suitcases. I called Renee just before she left for the Bahamas with Phil, and I called Charlie the day before we left.

"You take care, kiddo. Have a safe trip and enjoy your Christmas with Edward and his folks. I expect you two to come to Forks for the weekend sometime after the first of the year, you hear me?"

I giggled.

"We will, Dad. I'm looking forward to bringing Edward to Forks and he wouldn't have it any other way."

"Good. I love you, baby girl."

"I love you too, Daddy."

Emmett came by the next day to drive us to the airport. Edward helped him put our luggage into his jeep and we were on our way.

Once we cleared customs, we settled into our first class seats. Our flight was six hours to New York then a three hour layover before continuing the six and half hour flight to Ireland. I was excited I would finally be seeing Edward's heritage, but I was nervous. I was meeting his parents for the first time and that was a big deal.

"What's going on in that beautiful head of yers, darlin'?"

"Nothing. Everything. I'm sorry, I'm just nervous."

Edward grabbed my hand and brought it to his lips. "Bella, my parents are going to love ye as much as I do. Stop worrying, darlin'."

"Okay."

I settled into my seat leaning my head on Edwards shoulder, calming myself for the long flight. I pulled out a travel guide for Ireland and began to flip through it. I heard Edward chuckle beside me before kissing my head.

The guide was illustrated with colorful pictures and I made a mental list of places I wanted to visit. I fell asleep dreaming of rolling green hills, lush landscapes, and misty mornings.

When our flight finally landed in Ireland butterflies took flight in my belly once again. The nerves were back in full force. Edward wrapped his arm around my shoulders kissing the top of my head, relaxing me with his gentle touch.

After we gathered our luggage, we settled into our rental car for the hour ride from Dublin airport to Wicklow. It had been an exhausting day traveling from the States to Ireland, and I couldn't wait to finally arrive at his parent's house.

When we finally pulled in front of Edward's parents' house I could not have been happier. The front door flew open and an older woman with a head-full of auburn hair and a beautiful smile greeted us with open arms. Standing back but behind her was a tall older man with the same smirk as Edward always wore.

"Edward … I've missed ye, a mhic."

"I've missed ye, too, mum."

Edward's mother turned to me next pulling me into her arms for a warm, motherly hug. "It's nice to finally meet ye in person, Bella."

"It's nice to finally meet you too, Mrs. Masen."

"What did I tell ye before? Please call me Beth. We're practically family."

I returned her hug then turned to see Edward's father pull him in for a hug.

"A mhic, it's good to see ye. It's been too damn long, Edward."

"I know, Dad. I missed you both."

"Aye, this must be the lovely Bella I've heard so much about."

"Hello, Mr. Masen."

"Bella, call me Ed. Now c'mere and give this old man a hug."

I giggled as Edward's father wrapped me in his arms.

"Now, Ed. Let her go. Yer smothering her."

"I've done no such thing. I just wanted to hug the woman who put that smile on me son's face."

"Dad …"

"Come on, Bella. Let's go have some tea and cookies while the men here get yer bags," Beth said as she grabbed my hand and pulled me toward the house.

EPOV

My heart swelled as I watched my mum put an arm around Bella pulling her toward the house like they had known each other for years. It wasn't a surprise she took a liking to Bella so easily. She was that kind of woman.

"I know that look, a mhic. Ye love her don't ye, Edward."

"I do, Dad, with all me heart. I'm going to ask her to marry me. Do ye have any ideas where I should do it?"

My dad slapped my back. "Edward, let yer heart tell ye."

Leave it to my dad to get romantic and sentimental on me.

"Are ye getting romantic in yer old age, Dad?"

"I've always been a romantic. Why'd ye think yer dear old mum married me?"

I laughed. I really had missed my parents more than I realized. It was good to be home and spend time with them and if I got a proposal in there, then it would be an even better visit.

I'd made arrangements to take Bella to Doolin to use the gift certificate that Carlisle and Esme had given her for her birthday. We'd take a weekend trip before rejoining my parents for Christmas. I had an idea of where I wanted to propose and I hoped with all my heart that it felt right in the moment.

We carried the bags into the house and upstairs to my old room where Bella and I'd be staying. They'd replaced the single bed for a double bed as soon as I'd mentioned that I wanted to bring Bella home for Christmas. It wasn't the king sized bed we had in our loft, but it was better than nothing or sleeping separately.

We came down to find the women sitting in the kitchen chatting over tea. It was rainy and overcast when we arrived in Dublin and it wasn't any better in Wicklow.

"Oh, I bet ye two are hungry. Let me get some breakfast going and then ye can rest up a bit."

Mum made us eggs, grilled bacon and sausage, tomatoes and toast made from homemade bread.

"Oh my gosh, this bread is wonderful!" Bella said in between bites.

"Me mum taught me how to make bread when I was a wee girl. We always had fresh bread in the house. Do ye cook, Bella?"

"I do." Bella nodded. "My Gran taught me how to cook when I was growing up. I'd come to visit my dad for the summer and I'd stay with my Gran while Dad was at work. We'd spend the day cooking. When she passed away she left me all her recipes. I suppose I should sit down and organize them one day."

My mum's eyes were wide and bright.

"Bella, darlin', ye should write a cookbook one day. Pull aside the recipes that have the most memories and write a memoir of sorts with the recipe next to it."

"Mum … Bella doesn't need ye tellin' her what to write her books about," I chastised.

"Edward … stop, I think your mom has a great idea. I'd never thought about that before and it's certainly something to think about. I would guess that most cookbooks are only written by chefs who have a passion for food not by writers who have a passion for family and fond memories."

Bella and my mum talked for a while longer about recipes and my dad and I sat and listened. We'd put our two cents in from the peanut gallery when it was required. Sharing the funnier moments of family cooking was our only forte when it came to family meals.

After breakfast, I led Bella upstairs to my room so we could lay down and rest for a bit. We'd slept for a bit on the flight but sleeping on a plane is never truly restful.

"Your parents are great, Edward," Bella murmured as she curled up on my chest.

"Yeah?"

"Yeah. Your mom is so sweet and your dad is really funny."

"I can tell they already adore ye, darlin'."

"How do you know?" She asked looking up at me with wide eyes.

"Because me mum wants so badly to give ye me Nan's recipes and tell ye stories about her. I'd be shocked if she doesn't want to steal ye away for a day and take ye to meet her. Bella, I know me mum and she doesn't share those recipes with anyone let alone talk about them."

We napped for a couple hours before cleaning up and rejoining my parents in the den. It had begun to rain outside and the fire that burned in the fireplace was warm and cozy. Mum was reading on the sofa and Dad was looking at something on his laptop.

I sat down on the loveseat holding my arms out for Bella. She sat next to me and leaned into my embrace.

"How's the Pub doing, Son?"

"It's doin' great, Dad. Now that I'm done with me Master's, I can focus on it better. I'm hoping to be able to buy Jasper out completely by the end of next year."

"That's great, Son, but how are you going to manage that with everything else?" He asked raising his brow.

I squeezed Bella's shoulder and gazed down at her with a smile to find her smiling back up at me.

"We'll make it work."

"Bella, how in the world do ye put up with this bugger and his late nights at the Pub?" My dad asked.

"Sometimes I write at the bar or I help Edward behind the bar. Sometimes, I stay up in the loft but Edward is never a chore. He takes care of me and I take care of him."

"You two seem to be doing very well together." Mum smiled.

"We are. Bella's career is only getting bigger and the Pub is doing well. Our personal and professional lives have only gotten better since we've been together."

"I'm so happy for ye, a mhic," my mum said with a smile as she headed toward the kitchen.

After dinner, Bella and I sat at the table and poured over a map of Ireland with my parents. I asked Bella to make a list of places she wanted to see and my parents pointed out their very favorite places. We had to narrow down the list because we didn't have enough time to really see and enjoy everything.

The next few days we spent with my parents doing mundane things but enjoyed the time together. Bella and Mum worked in the garden picking and pruning or baked delicious homemade cookies from one of my Nan's recipes, while Dad and I either worked in his tool shed or just sat and watched TV.

It was surreal to spend time with Bella in the home where I grew up. She was a part of my present as well as my future and I loved sharing a little of my past with her. My parents were all too happy to do the same. They took to her like the daughter they never had, and I knew without a doubt she was my missing piece, fitting in perfect with my family.

On Thursday night as we headed to bed, I told my parents we'd be leaving in the morning for our getaway and that we'd see them again on Christmas Day.

"I hope everything works out for ye, a mhic." My dad smiled as I climbed into our rental car the next morning.

"Me too." I grinned.

I watched Bella as she took in all the beauty of Ireland as we drove. She was in awe as she watched each landscape pass us by. Along the way we stopped to stretch and take in the magnificent views. I couldn't help but smile as I enjoyed Bella's excitement and wonder.

"Baby, where are we going exactly?"

"Aye, we're headed to a little seaside village called Doolin."

I had to chuckle at how cute Bella was pulling out her travel guide as soon as I told her where we were going.

"It says that Doolin is on the Atlantic Ocean close to the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands."

"It is. What else does it say in yer travel guide, darlin'?"

"Don't tease me, Edward. You know I like to be informed."

I wrapped my fingers around Bella's bringing her hand to my lips and kissed gently. "I'm sorry, darlin'. I didn't mean to make fun of ye. I think a smart woman is sexy . And ye, my Bella are sexy as hell."

Bella blushed ten shades of red then relaxed back into her seat studying her guide book. It took us about three and a half hours to drive from Wicklow to Doolin. Our reservations were at the Riverside Cottage Bed & Breakfast on Fisherstreet – Doolin.

As I stood at the desk checking in, Bella looked around, taking everything in.

"Edward, this is beautiful."

I kissed her cheek. "I'm glad ye like it. But this is only the foyer, darlin'. Wait till you see the rest."

On the way to our room we walked through the guest lounge where a couple was snuggled together on a chair enjoying the warm fire. There were a few other empty chairs and a TV above the fireplace. It looked cozy and warm.

When we reached our room, I held the door open for Bella before grabbing our bags and dropping them in front of the bed. I walked the short distance to where she was and wrapped my arms around her.

"I'm so glad I could share this with ye, darlin'. There's no feeling in the world like being able to share a piece of my heritage with the woman I love."

"Oh, Edward. I love you so much."

"I love ye, too."

I lowered my head, lightly brushing my lips against hers. What was intended as a soft, sweet kiss soon became heated and passionate. Bella wrapped her arms around my neck holding me close to her. She swept her tongue along my lower lip before pulling it into her mouth.

Bella's hands played with the hair at the back of my neck as our lips moved over each other's. My hands fell to her hips as I caressed the exposed skin there. She felt so good in my arms.

It had been a very long week of not being able to really touch Bella intimately. We both felt uncomfortable doing anything more than laying in each other's arms with my parents right down the hall.

"Darlin', I've missed this so much. I need ye, Bella."

"Then have me, baby."

That was all the encouragement I needed. Slowly I removed all of Bella's clothing before doing the same with my own. When we both stood gloriously naked, I picked her up bridal style, carrying her to the bed, and gently placing her in the middle. I crawled up the bed to lie beside her before leaning over to cup her face in my hands and kissed her sweetly. Her warm, wet tongue traced my lip as my own tongue met hers in the middle and tangled with hers.

My fingers caressed every inch of flesh I could reach before landing on the swell of Bella's breasts. My thumb rubbed along the hardened peaks making her moan softly. I lowered my head taking a perfect pink nipple in my mouth, licking and sucking one before paying the same attention to the other.

"Edward, God. That feels so good."

I chuckled as I shimmed down her body leaving a trail of wet kisses along her body before I settled between her legs. I swirled my tongue in her belly button then sweetly kissed from hip to hip.

"Baby, stop teasing me."

"Tell me what ye want, darlin'."

Bella hesitated, biting her bottom lip, but then softly spoke, "I want your mouth on me."

I growled then swiped my tongue along her wet folds. "Is this what ye want, baby?"

"Yessss …"

Her sweet taste glided on my tongue as I stroked my tongue along her folds; up and down, in and out. Bella moaned loudly as I took her clit in my mouth and sucked. I couldn't get enough as I lapped at her pussy. Her orgasm hit hard, coating my tongue with her essence.

I didn't waste any time as I crawled up the bed and positioned my cock at her entrance. I stared down at my beautiful Bella with half-lidded eyes as she came down from her high. I kissed her lips as I pushed inch by inch until I was sheathed in her warmth completely.

"Edward, please …"

"Give me a minute, darlin'. Jaysus. Ye feel so damn good. Always so good."

Bella wrapped her legs around my waist as I started to move. She met each thrust with a thrust of her own. I could feel my balls tighten and my orgasm build. I wasn't sure how long I would last.

I slipped my finger between us wanting Bella to fall right along with me. Her soft moans and flutter of muscles around my cock told me she was close. With another swirl of my finger on her clit and a trust of my hips, she was milking my cock and I was chanting her name over and over.

I pulled out before sliding to the side and wrapping Bella in my arms. I pulled the covers up as Bella rested her head on my chest. I kissed the top of her head as I whispered my love for her and she did the same for me.

We laid in each other's arms for what felt like hours but was only mere minutes. I lightly traced my fingers up and down her arms in a soothing pattern as she sighed in contentment.

"What would ye like to see first, darlin'?"

"I think whatever you want to do is fine by me. As long as I'm with you, I'm perfect."

The history of the Claddagh ring is one of the most romantic stories of Ireland. So I thought it would be appropriate to show Bella Claddagh Quay in Galway City

"This stupid book only tells me that a claddagh is a symbol of love – it doesn't tell me why," Bella whined.

I pulled her hand into mine and told her the version of the legend I'd heard hundreds of times from my mom and my aunt.

"Legends say that a young man set sail for the Irish Carribean Island of Montesserat. He was kidnapped by pirates and sold to a goldsmith who was in need of an apprentice. The goldsmith taught him his trade.

"Several years later, King William III negotiated the return of the slaves. The young man returned to Galway – even after the goldsmith offered his daughter's hand in marriage and a dowry of half his wealth."

"So … the guy that was kidnapped – he made the original claddagh?"

"The man – I think his surname was Joyce – he had a girlfriend before he left Ireland. Well, she waited for him. She was faithful to him and believed that he would return one day. When he did return – he presented her with a ring that he'd made; a symbol of their enduring love. Two hands representing their friendship, a crown to symbolize loyalty and lasting fidelity and lastly a heart – a reminder of their unending love for each other."

"That's a beautiful story. What happened to them after that?"

"They married and were never separated again."

Bella's eyes were hopeful as she smiled at me. If she only knew what I was carrying around in my pocket. She snuggled into my side as we walked around taking in the sights. Lynch's Castle, the Spanish Arch, the Claddagh and Galway Cathedral; we visited them all – soaking in the beauty and rich history they had to offer.

After stopping to eat at a local pub, we took a ferry to the Aran Islands where we rented bikes and rode across the beautiful countryside. We stopped often, taking pictures and capturing every memory.

By the time we made it back to our room we were exhausted, barely able to change into comfortable clothes before collapsing in a heap on our bed.

I woke to dim light filtering in through the curtains. Bella's hair was splayed across her pillow, her long lashes resting on her cheeks. Her arms were flush against her chest and her hands were curled into fists. I kissed her bare shoulder and pulled her to my chest. She sighed heavily in her sleep before relaxing into me. I wanted her but I knew she needed rest for the full day of sightseeing we had planned. For now, I'd settle for holding her in my arms.

We headed out for a day in Killarney after a delicious, hot breakfast. It was a two hour drive from the cottage to Killarney in southwest Ireland. Renowned for scenic landscapes, lakes and mountains, Killarney is one of the busiest tourist spots in Ireland and we weren't surprised that it was teeming with people when we arrived.

Bella wanted to tour the 15th century Ross Castle. She was adorable as she walked around occasionally peeking in her travel guide and voicing an errant thought.

"This says the castle was amongst the last to surrender to Cromwell's Roundheads during the Irish Confederate Wars . The owners were afraid the enemy would attack them from the lake."

"Would you like to take a boat tour of the lake?" I asked.

"Really?" Bella asked, her eyes dancing with delight.

"Yes," I chuckled.

"From what I've read, Lough Leane is the largest and most picturesque lake in Killarney." Bella read from her tour book.

I grabbed the book from her hands and stuffed it in my back pocket.

"Just enjoy the scenery for a while, darlin'. I know I am."

She was so carefree and happy since we arrived that it was hard for me to pull my eyes from her.

We boarded the boat and settled in for our hour long tour. Bella and I cuddled against each other as we enjoyed the views around us.

Afterwards, we walked along the streets looking at the different shops in town. Bella's eyes lit up at the beautiful arts, crafts and jewelry in some of the stores. I caught her eyeing a beautiful silver claddagh pendant and I convinced her to let me buy it for her.

"Edward … this trip is more than enough. You don't have to buy me anything."

"I want to, darlin'. Please let me spoil ye."

She gave in after I pouted for a few good minutes. I pointed to the sales lady which one we wanted and I fastened it around Bella's slender neck. It looked gorgeous on her.

We ate lunch at a little corner café and then indulged in a horse drawn carriage ride around town. Maybe it was cliché but we were happy, completely in love, and I'd do anything to keep a smile on her beautiful face. But I didn't feel the overwhelming urge to pull that little ring out of my pocket just yet.

Bella and I spent the evening wrapped around one another. We were tired from our day of sightseeing so we picked up our dinner while we were out and took it back to our room. The next day was Christmas Eve and it would be our last night at the cottage before going back to Wicklow on Christmas morning.

I had planned something special for Bella and me. I knew she was looking forward to seeing the Cliffs of Moher so I booked a helicopter ride so she could enjoy the view from the air.

It was chilly as we made our way to the little helipad and Bella's eyes were wide as she realized what we were about to do.

"We're going on a helicopter ride?"

I nodded with a smile.

Bella was nearly jumping with excitement. I guided her into the helicopter and helped her buckle in. She jiggled her knee – whether it was in anxiety or excitement I wasn't sure, but she was adorable. Bella reached out for my hand and I gave it to her without a second thought. The pilot called in our flight and we were on our way.

Although it had been a chilly morning, it was clear and sunny outside and it was going to be a beautiful afternoon. We couldn't have picked a better day. Our helicopter tour lasted about forty-five minutes – the pilot rattled off all the information that Bella wanted to hear but was missing from her tour book. She absorbed every word. When we landed we thanked our pilot profusely and made our way to the visitor's center.

We walked hand in hand down the pathways along the cliffs. The views were breathtaking and if you were standing at the right spot you could feel the cold spray of the ocean on your skin. I stood and watched Bella as she wandered away from the path up on to a grassy knoll to snap a few pictures. The sun was glinting off the water and illuminated the strands of her long hair. There was enough of a breeze that it looked like fire floating around her. She looked back at me with a shy smile and it was like everything clicked.

I walked toward her; stopping just behind her. She knew I was there – she always knew when I was close by. I took her hand in mine and squeezed it lightly.

"Bella …" I said softly.

"Edward, this view is gorgeous," she breathed.

"Ta tu alainn."

"Edward …" She chastised as she turned to face me.

I got down on one knee and said everything I felt in my heart.

"I love ye, Bella. From the moment ye walked into me pub with yer laptop, I knew there was something about ye and I've fallen in love with ye a little more each day. Bringing ye here and seeing ye with me family only confirmed what I already knew. Ye make me life complete and I don't know what I'd do without ye. I need ye in me life. I want to have wee ones running around and grow old with ye. Isabella Marie Swan, would ye do me the great honor of becoming me wife? An bposfaidh tu me? Will ye marry me, darlin'?"

I watched her beautiful face as her warm, brown eyes filled with tears and she pulled her bottom lip between her teeth. She nodded her head and whispered yes.

"Yes," She said again with a giggle. "Yes!"

It was the most glorious sound next to my name falling from her lips.

I opened the box I'd been carrying around in my pocket for what seemed like forever. Bella gasped as she set her eyes upon it.

"Oh, Edward. It's beautiful."

I took the delicate ring out of the box and she held out her hand. I slipped the ring on her finger – the fit was perfect. Bella wiggled her finger catching the brilliant emerald stone in the light.

"It's just like your eyes …" Bella breathed.

"That was the idea, darlin'."

"It's so unique. Oh God, Edward … I love you so much."

She wrapped her arms around my neck and I pulled her up in my arms and reveled in the feel of her and the fact that she'd just agreed to be my wife.

Bella giggled and I sat her back on her feet, my eyes never leaving her face.

"I think we've drawn attention to ourselves," she giggled.

I looked behind us and a group of tourists had gathered. We could hear whispered words like adorable and so sweet together. I couldn't help myself.

"In case yer wondering, this gorgeous woman just agreed to be me wife!" I hollered.

Bella's face was flushed and she buried her head in my chest as the tourists shouted their congratulations.

After all the events and emotions from the day, I was eager to get Bella alone and back to the Bed & Breakfast. My hand was never far from hers as I caressed lazy circles along her knuckles. The ride back seemed to take forever even if it wasn't that far.

By the time we made it back to our room, a little while later, I was on edge and wanted nothing more than to show my future wife exactly how much I loved her. But tonight was not meant to be fast and hard. Bella needed to be worshiped slowly and sensually.

We took our time touching and caressing each other as if it was our first time. When we came together it felt like coming home. With each languid thrust of my hips I brought us both closer to exquisite pleasure.

Bella whispered my name over and over as her orgasm hit triggering my own. Her name fell from my own lips before my sated body collapsed beside her. I wrapped my arms around her as I pulled the covers over us and we both fell fast asleep.

There was no better feeling than waking up with your arms wrapped around the woman you loved knowing that just a few hours ago she agreed to be your wife. I was happy. I was content. Everything was perfect in the world.

I brushed a stray hair from Bella's face as I watched her sleep so peacefully. There were no worry lines or scrunched up noses, just a slight smile as she slept. I could have sworn my name fell as a quiet whisper from her lips. She looked like an angel who was happy and I could have stayed like that forever.

It was Christmas morning and we needed to get on the road back to my parent's house. I let her sleep as long as humanly possible before my fingers were itching to touch her and I caressed her cheek trying to coax her awake slowly. She stirred, burrowing into the crook of my arm as her eyes fluttered open.

"Hey, ye."

Her lips curved into a wide smile. "Hey."

"Merry Christmas, future Mrs. Masen." I lowered my lips to hers and kissed her sweetly.

"Mrs. Masen … I think I could get used to that. Merry Christmas to you too, baby."

"I hope yer not going to make me wait long. I'm not sure how long I can wait for ye to become my wife."

Bella giggled and kissed my lips gently. "You're not a patient man are you?"

"Not when it comes to ye, darlin'."

"Well … I don't think I want to wait long. March sounds like a good month. Only fitting don't you think?" Bella asked teasingly.

"I think March sounds like a perfect month." I kissed her temple. "As much as I'd love to spend the day in bed with ye, we need to get moving. It's a long ride to casa de Masen."

"Do I have time for a shower?"

"Of course, love. But only if I can join ye."

"I wouldn't have it any other way."

After a very long and sensual shower with lots of touching and love making we finally got dressed and headed to Wicklow. Bella took out her guide book as we drove back across Ireland. She talked about the places we had visited and where she wanted to go when we came back. Because there was no doubt we would be back.

We talked about our nuptials and what we wanted. Bella wanted a small intimate affair with just our family and friends—which was fine by me. As long as she became my wife she could have anything her heart desired.

My parents greeted us at the door when we arrived, wishing us a happy Christmas and asking us if we had a good time in Doolin. I couldn't wait to tell them the good news – that Bella had agreed to be my wife. In a few short months she'd become the daughter they always wanted.

Bella looked over at me with a sheepish smile and I knew she was just as excited as me.

"Do you want to tell them or should I?"

My Dad looked over at me with a grin on his face.

"Somethin' ye want to tell us, a mhic?"

"Well, while Bella and I were walking about yesterday, I asked her to marry me and she emphatically said yes. We're getting married."

I couldn't help the smile on my face and it only grew wider as Bella looked up at me – her eyes filled with love. My mum and dad rushed to us from where they stood in the den; grins adorning both of their faces. Mum reached out to Bella and took Bella's hand in her own examining the ring on her delicate finger.

"Oh, Edward … a mhic … it's lovely. I'm so happy for ye both."

My father congratulated us and hugged me before reaching out for Bella and my mum wrapped her arms around my waist and told me again how happy she was that I'd found in Bella what she'd found in my dad.

"Ed … I suppose we'll be makin' a trip to Seattle, ya?"

"Most definitely, darlin'. We've a wedding to attend." Dad grinned.

"Ooh! I can't wait to tell Esme!" Mum squealed.

"Mum … can ye wait a bit before tellin' Aunt Es?"

I watched as her face fell.

"It's just that Bella hasn't had a chance to tell her Dad yet and Charlie's important. Not that Aunt Es isn't … but Charlie needs to know before Aunt Es, okay?"

Mum nodded and proceeded to drag Bella into the den.

"Come on, a mhic, we'll get the coffee and then we've got gifts to open."

Christmas Day was wonderful. We spent the early afternoon opening gifts before my mum and Bella went into the kitchen to make supper. Dad and I spent the afternoon watching TV – although I have to admit I was a bit bummed I wasn't able to see all the American Bowl games I'd become accustomed to.

My Nan, and her sister Zieta, Uncle Peter, Aunt Eva and Cousin Liam all came for Christmas supper. It was the first time any of them would meet Bella and she was a little nervous – it was all for naught of course but my Bella didn't know that. Nan fell in love with her immediately; seeing for herself what my mum had been telling her about the past few months.

"She's enchanting, Edward. Where ever in the world did you find her?"

"She walked into me Pub one day, Nan and I was a goner the first time I laid eyes on her."

Liam and Uncle Peter were just as taken with her as my Nan was. In fact, instead of sitting in the den with my dad and me, they lingered in the kitchen with the women – well after supper was finished. My Aunt Eva observed Bella for a bit longer – she always was one to form her own opinion. She was a quiet and soft spoken woman but she had a heart of gold.

"She's lovely, Edward," Aunt Eva murmured quietly. "I think she's perfect for ye."

"Thanks, I couldn't love her anymore if I'd designed her meself."

"I hope ye'll bring her to Dun Laoghaire before ye head back to Seattle."

"I will. We're planning on spending a couple days in Dublin before we leave for Seattle."

"I think your Nan would like ye to bring Bella to Kilkenny so ye'll be well traveled by the time ye make it home, Edward."

"I don't care. As long as me Bella is happy, I'll travel 'til I drop."

Travel we did. Two days after Christmas, I drove Bella to Kilkenny to visit with my Nan. The more I watched them together – the more amazed I was. My family truly had taken to Bella like she was one of their own. Bella just fit here with my family. Everything they dished out to her she took in stride before dishing right back. I wished that Esme and Carlisle could have been here to see her interacting with our family – they loved Bella dearly already but they'd have a new appreciation for her after seeing her with everyone else.

Nan pulled Bella aside at one point and took her back to the bedroom. When I went in to check on them nearly an hour later, they were sitting on the bed holding hands looking at a photo album with tears in their eyes.

"My Joseph carried this photo around in his wallet every day since the day I gave it to him when I was eleven years old. I married him when I was sixteen and we were married for fifty-two years when he passed on. Your Edward is so very much like his grandfather – my Joseph. He's a good man and ye'll never have to worry because he'll take care of ye or die tryin'."

As we drove out of Kilkenny, I looked over to see Bella wiping a few tears from her eyes.

"Ye okay, darlin'?"

"Yeah … I'm okay. I'm really going to miss your Nan. Thank you for bringing me to see her."

"Bella … she'll be at the wedding. Ye'll see her again."

"Really?"

"Yes. Mum promised me – somehow, someway – she'll be there."

We spent another day with my parents before bidding them goodbye and heading back toward Dublin. True to my word, we stopped in Dun Laoghaire and visited with my Aunt and Uncle. Liam lives and works in Dublin and we made plans to meet up with him on New Year's Eve.

Aunt Eva is a horse breeder and she saddled up a couple horses and left Uncle Peter and I to fend for ourselves while she and Bella went for a ride.

"Should I be concerned?" I asked.

"Nah … yer Aunt really enjoyed Bella on Christmas Day. She's very impressed with her. Ye've done well me boy. I honestly wasn't sure how well ye'd fair when ye went to live with Esme and Carlisle but ye've done well for yerself and made everyone so proud …."

Uncle Peter trailed off as if he was going to say something else and then thought better of it.

"Have ye heard from the O'Connell's? How is Aine doing?"

He chuckled.

"I wondered if ye'd pick up on that. I wasn't sure if I should mention it or not."

"It's fine. It's over and done. I've got Bella now – she's everything to me but that doesn't mean that I don't think of Aine or hope that she's happy."

"Well, a mhic, if ye really want to know … Aine has three little ones and another on the way. Only two of them have the same father. The man she's married to has filed for divorce because the one she's carryin' isn't his."

"Wow. I'll thank me lucky stars I didn't stick around."

He grinned and slapped me on the shoulder.

We ate supper when Bella and my aunt returned. My uncle and I cooked – surprising the girls when they came back. They had a good chat while they were out but neither one would divulge much of the conversation. I watched Bella with concern, but her eyes were sparkling and I knew she was happy. We bid my aunt and uncle goodbye after supper and headed toward Dublin.

I'd managed to get us a room at the Temple Bar Hotel. It was in Central Dublin and was one of the more popular places to spend New Year's Eve because of a club called Alchemy. The concierge promised that we'd be able to get into the club for New Year's. Neither Bella nor myself were really into clubs but I wanted to do our first New Year's up right because it was the beginning of our new life together.

We toured the Guinness Storehouse and the Trinity College Library – Bella easily lost herself in both. The library more so than the storehouse but I knew from the look on her face that she was in awe. She caught a severe case of the giggles when I took her to see the statue of Molly Malone.

"I seem to remember a conversation we had about her," Bella giggled.

"Yeah? I guess I don't. Me memory is failin' me."

"The first time you took me to Carlisle and Esme's … she walked out and you took a few extra minutes before you introduced us. You said 'this is my Bella' and she said she didn't think I was Molly Malone."

"Ahh … now I remember."

Of course I remembered the moment with perfect clarity but it was interesting to hear the memory from her point of view and it was reassuring to know that she remembered the moment exactly as I did.

On New Year's Eve, we walked around some more taking in as much of Dublin as Bella could stand. I took her back to our hotel in the early afternoon and convinced her to lie down and take a nap with me. Of course, I had no intention of napping. While she slept, I lay beside her, watching her. I kept wondering why Bella decided to choose my Pub that night … out of all the places she could have gone. I was thankful she'd made the decision she did because I couldn't imagine my life without her. She fit into my life so flawlessly and my family accepted her and loved her wholeheartedly.

I let Bella sleep for about an hour before I couldn't keep my hands and lips to myself any longer. She'd changed into a tank top and crawled into bed wearing nothing but that and a pair of tiny little boy shorts. Bella's back was pulled tight against my chest; her head resting on one arm and my other arm rested on her waist. I tucked her wild hair down between us and softly kissed her shoulder – breathing in her sweet scent. I trailed soft kisses along her shoulder and up to the hollow behind her ear. I could feel her pulse pick up with every kiss I left on her warm skin. I watched as her eyelids fluttered and she hummed.

I continued my kisses as I caressed the skin on Bella's stomach and worked my way up to her breasts. Her sharp intake of breath when I cupped her supple breast in my hand told me that she was slowly waking up. I massaged her breasts for a few moments before working my way back down her torso, sliding my hand into her panties. I smiled against her skin when I found she was already damp with desire.

"Edward …" She murmured sleepily.

"Hmm?" I hummed against her skin.

She hitched her leg over my hip so I could have easier access to her wet center and I circled her clit with my thumb as I slid two fingers into her.

Bella moaned spurring me on to be a little more aggressive in my movements.

"Oh, God, Edward … I need you inside me … now."

"Yeah?"

"Yes! Now!"

I removed my hand from her panties long enough to pull them down her long legs and throw them over the side of the bed. Bella rolled onto her back and smiled at me as I gazed down at her hungrily. I laid down next to her and kissed her lips once before circling her nipple with my tongue and nipping it gently.

"Baby, please …" Bella whimpered.

"Come here, darlin'," I urged as I tugged her toward me.

I laid back on the bed as Bella straddled me – my erection at attention between us. Bella reached down and pulled her tank top off as I gazed at her. She was sleep rumpled; her eyes still heavy from sleep. Bella was completely turned on, utterly beautiful, and she was all mine.

I drew circles on her hips with my thumbs as she looked down at me with her deep brown eyes. I helped Bella to lift her hips and slide down onto my throbbing cock.

"Ugh … darlin' … ye feel so good. So good."

Bella leaned down over me, tangling her fingers in my hair and kissing me softly before raising up enough that I could circle her nipple with my tongue and pull her sensitive nipple into my mouth.

"Oh, God, Edward … I love that. It feels so good."

I hummed against her breast and she moaned as she nipped at my ear. She was riding my cock and it felt so fucking good. I rocked my hips in steady rhythm with hers until we were both moaning and breathless. I could feel Bella's muscles fluttering around me just as I was feeling the tightening in my balls. I kissed her – plunging my tongue into her mouth just as she clenched and came hard. I followed just moments later – spilling deep inside her as her name fell from my lips like a prayer.

"I love ye, me Bella."

"I love you too, baby."

We snuggled in bed for a little while longer before we had to get up and get ready for our evening out. Bella and I showered together – making love under the water before we actually washed away the day. I pulled on a pair of dark wash jeans that Alice bought specifically for the occasion according to Bella and I wore a dark grey t-shirt with a white long sleeved shirt over it that had thin grey pinstripes running through it. I rolled my sleeves up to my forearms and was putting on my cologne when Bella walked out of the bathroom wearing the sexiest dress I'd seen her in yet.

Bella was stunning in a simple midnight blue sequined dress. I loved it on her – there was the perfect amount of skin on display and it was short enough to show off her long sexy legs.

"Darlin' … ye look gorgeous." I breathed.

Bella giggled.

"You look pretty handsome yourself," She whispered as she took my chin between her fingers and brought my lips down to meet hers.

She had delicate pumps on her feet and her hair flowed down her back with the sides pulled away from her lovely face. I was a lucky bastard to have her on my arm for the evening.

"Ready?" I asked, slipping my coat on.

"Yep."

Bella grabbed a little silver handbag that was laying on the bed and I held out her coat for her. I made reservations at the Irish House Party. We'd eat dinner there and enjoy the show before coming back to the hotel and going to the club for the countdown to midnight. We both enjoyed the music and dancing at the House Party. I loved seeing the warm smile on Bella's face.

We stopped by our room briefly before going back downstairs to Alchemy. When we arrived, the music was thumping and the dance floor was filled with people. Bella and I were shown to a table that I had the concierge reserve for us. We ordered our drinks; a Guinness for me and a Cucumber Pear Martini for Bella.

"Feelin' a little exotic tonight are ye, darlin'?" I asked as the waitress set our drinks on the table.

"No," Bella smiled. "I don't always have the opportunity to have the kind of drinks that I really like."

I was about to argue with her until she took a sip of the sweet concoction and leaned over to kiss me. I could taste the sweetness of the pears on her lips; combined with the underlying flavor of Bella - it was fantastic.

"Are you going to argue now?" She asked cheekily as if she could read my mind.

"Not a chance, darlin'."

I took her hand and led her to the dance floor where we spent most of the evening, wrapped in each other's arms. As the night wore on, more and more people joined in on the dance floor. At eleven thirty, champagne was passed out along with noise makers, hats and string rockets. The crowd shouted out the countdown from ten.

"Six, Five, Four, Three, Two, One. Happy New Year!"

I bent my head down and traced Bella's lower lip with my tongue before capturing it between my lips and kissing her passionately. Our tongues danced together for a moment before I pulled back.

"Happy New Year, darlin'."

"Happy New Year, Edward."

The next day, Bella and I were at the Dublin airport, checking in – ready to head home. We were planning on meeting with our friends to celebrate our engagement and Bella was ready to see Charlie. She'd missed him more over the holiday than she wanted to admit, but she seemed to thoroughly enjoy our trip.

Bella's eyes were glued to the window of the plane as we ascended and I could see the glassy tears forming.

"We'll be back, darlin'," I promised.

"I know. It was such an incredible trip, Edward. I still want to pinch myself to make sure it was real."

"That ring on your finger ought to prove to ye how real it was, Bella."

Her smile in return was breathtaking.

"I love you, Edward."

"Love you, too, darlin'."

I held out my arms and Bella snuggled into my chest as we settled in for the long flight to New York. I closed my eyes and dreamed of Bella in a flowing white dress, carrying a bouquet of flowers with a smile on her face. We were surrounded by our family and friends as we exchanged our vows and promised to love each other forever. My dream seemed to morph and I was running across the fields at my parent's house chasing a little boy with bronze hair and deep green eyes as Bella watched from afar – her hand rubbing her belly lovingly.

The memory of my dream filled my eyes and completely captured my heart.

I knew no matter if life took us to Seattle or Ireland, as long as Bella was by my side our life would be perfect.

Fin.

A/N: There will be NO epilogue - however, there will be several outtakes and a future take that we will be posting that will hopefully tie up any loose ends. ALL OUTTAKES WILL BE POSTED AS A SEPARATE STORY - look for What Fills the Eye Fills the Heart - OUTTAKES - on our profile. Make sure that we are on your author alert so you don't miss out!

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