Waiting For My Real Life To Begin
by Laura Spudzmom
Chapter 12
The next month was a whirlwind of activity that would have been breathtaking to behold had she not been the focus of it.
Countless dinner parties, luncheons with all the society ladies that she'd yet to meet and two celebration Balls, one held at her father's estate and one at the Whitlock's, all combined to put her in a spin.
Then there were the many shopping trips and fittings and consultations, and meetings with the minister that she and Jasper were required to attend before he would declare them fit in the eyes of God for matrimony…..she was ready to pitch a match into the middle of it all and call it a day.
That was, until she looked into the joyful and passion filled eyes of her soon-to-be husband and suddenly all that she'd gone through was a trifle and she would do all that and much more if asked.
Oh, was he ever a dangerous creature, even as a human.
She had to admit though that if it hadn't been for Jasper's mother and sisters, she would have been sunk. As it was, she was barely treading water, but the Whitlock ladies were experts and between their organizational skills and Emily's cool and calm efficiency, Isabella managed to maintain her genteel bearing with a nod and a smile.
As a matter of fact, she'd only had to use her secret outlet twice during the entire month.
She smiled to herself as she thought of the look of shock that had passed through her father's eyes as she'd, ever so sweetly, called one of his business associates a fucking asshole, in fluent Italiano of course. She'd gone on to regale him with the fact that she thought he was a stinking, fat pig with absolutely no manners whatsoever, until her father had gripped her arm and discreetly marched her to his study.
There, he had proceeded to give her a stern talking to just before he smirked, saluted her with his freshly poured bourbon and complimented her on the fluency of her Italiano, not to mention her choice of insults.
Neither of them had mentioned it since, and curiously, the man had suddenly left town for parts unknown.
Her father could be very discreet if he chose to be.
And so the month had passed by, at times, seemingly in the blink of an eye and at other times, such as when she found herself close to Jasper, it dragged on and on.
Still, pass by it had, and that was how she came to be staring at herself in a tri-paneled full length mirror, wearing the most beautiful custom made wedding gown she'd ever seen as she readied herself to speak her vows and become Mrs. Jasper Andrew Whitlock in just a matter of minutes.
With a nod of approval to her reflection and a smile to her attendants, she moved away from the mirror, now just waiting for the knock on the door that would be her father retrieving her to walk down the aisle.
~o0o~
Jasper jumped slightly at the solid knock that sounded on his door, before taking a breath and settling himself.
He certainly wouldn't be any good to his wife if he couldn't compose himself in such a situation as this, now would he?
"Come in."
He smiled calmly at his father as he entered and patted him on the shoulder.
"Son, I just wanted to say that I'm proud of the man you are and I'm sure that I'll be proud of the husband and father you'll become."
They both took seats at that point, Jasper sipping some cool water. "Thank you father. I've always been proud to be a Whitlock and I've always striven to bring pride and honor to our family."
His father nodded. "You've always succeeded. I couldn't ask for a finer son."
He leaned forward. "Now, for my other purpose in seeking you out. I would speak to you about your wedding night and how to treat your bride. There's a proper way to go about things son, so that you don't hurt her and that's what we'll discuss now."
Jasper blushed. He knew he did. But he never dropped his gaze from his father's, for he'd been taught from an early age, not to.
So he listened attentively to the man he loved and respected above all others, as he told him all he would need to know about taking care of his wife and pleasing her as a woman.
There was nothing ribald about their discussion. There were no knowing smirks exchanged or triumphant slaps on the back. This was a serious discussion from a very good man and husband to his son on his wedding day and Jasper found himself, once again, awed by the man his father was.
It was his fervent prayer to be just like him.
~o0o~
A smile overtook Bella's face at the knock on the door. It's seems it was time and the butterflies in her stomach took to wild flight.
This was really happening! She was going to marry the love of her existence and tears filled her eyes at the thought.
She laughed a teary laugh when Mrs. Whitlock pressed a lace handkerchief into her hand, as she dabbed at her eyes with her own.
She hugged her gently. "It's time for me to go take my place now. We'll see you after the ceremony sweet girl."
Bella grasped her hand. "I can't thank you enough for all you've done for me. I would have been truly lost if not for you."
Mrs. Whitlock hugged her again. "It was my pleasure dear. Now, time to go see you marry my son!"
She left through the open door and Bella spotted her father there waiting.
He moved forward, taking her gloved hand. "Are you sure about all of this Bella?"
Bella turned, facing him as she looked up into his eyes. "Yes, dad." She whispered.
He pulled her in, hugging her gently. "I'll always be here for you. I know that wasn't always the case, but it is now, and will be from now on."
She nodded against his chest. "I love you dad. Thank you for all that you've done for me. I'll never forget it and it's meant so much to me to have you with me."
He backed away a pace holding her hands away from her body to get a good look at her. "You are absolutely beautiful. I've never seen a lovelier bride."
She blushed and looked down with a smile. "Thanks dad."
After pulling her veil over, he held his arm for her. "Shall we? Too much longer and he's going to think you changed your mind."
She nodded and took his arm. She took as deep a breath as she could at the entry doors, and then the attendants swung them open.
He father patted her hand at the slight hitch in her breath and she gave him a tiny nod as he led her down the aisle.
She saw him when she was half way to the alter and she swore she had never beheld such a beautiful being as he. She couldn't take her eyes from him. He fairly glowed with happiness and her smile was a constant as she approached, his mood infectious, even at a distance.
Finally, she was there, her father placing her gloved hand in Jasper's before stepping back into his place as the ceremony began.
"Dearly beloved, we have come together in the presence of God to witness and bless the joining together of this man and this woman in Holy Matrimony. The bond and covenant of marriage was established by God in creation, and our Lord Jesus Christ adorned this manner of life by His presence and first miracle at the wedding in Cana of Galilee. It signifies to us the mystery of the union between Christ and His Church, and Holy Scripture commends it to be honored among all people.
The union of husband and wife is intended by God for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort given each other in prosperity and adversity; and, when it is God's will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord. Therefore marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it was instituted by God."
The minister paused and smiled at them, but Isabella hardly noticed, her gaze locked with Jasper's, their eyes saying much more than words ever could.
"Into this union Isabella Marie Salvatore and Jasper Andrew Whitlock now come to be joined. If any of you can show just cause why they may not be lawfully wed, speak now, or else forever hold your peace."
Bella held her breath for the beats that the minister paused, her smile brightening and relief filling her when he continued without interruption.
"I charge you both, here in the presence of God and the witness of this company, that if either of you know any reason why you may not be married lawfully and in accordance with God's Word, do now confess it."
Again, he paused, the moments passing in silence before he moved on.
"Isabella Marie Salvatore, will you have this man to be your husband; to live together with him in the covenant of marriage? Will you love him, comfort him, honor and obey him, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto him as long as you both shall live?"
Her eyes filling with tears, she answered. "I will."
"Jasper Andrew Whitlock, will you have this woman to be your wife; to live together with her in the covenant of marriage? Will you love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto her as long as you both shall live?"
His voice rang out, strong and steady as he answered. "I will."
The minister then addressed the many guests.
"Will all of you witnessing these promises do all in your power to uphold these two persons in their marriage?"
The answer rang out in a union of voices. "We will."
The minister nodded and looked down at his book of prayers, his voice ringing out once again after a brief beat of silence.
"Who gives this woman to be married to this man?"
Damon stepped forward, his voice clear and strong as he answered. "I do."
Bella sent him a watery smile as he winked at her before stepping back and taking his seat for the rest of the ceremony, his heart aching with pride and love for his only child.
The ministers voice sounded again. "Please face your bride, take her right hand in yours, and recite your vows."
She felt the steady strength in his hand as he faced her, reciting his vows, his voice sure and unwavering.
"In the name of God, I, Jasper Andrew Whitlock, take you, Isabella Marie Salvatore, to be my wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow."
Bella took a deep breath as she fought to steady her nerves. It was her turn now. Breathing out slowly, she opened her eyes and began.
"In the name of God, I, Isabella Marie Salvatore, take you, Jasper Andrew Whitlock, to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love, cherish, and obey until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow."
The minister called for the rings then and took them from the bearer with a smile and nod.
"Bless, O Lord, these rings as a symbol of the vows by which this man and this woman have bound themselves to each other; through Jesus Christ our Lord."
The guests all responded in unison, "Amen", and the minister asked them to face each other as he handed Jasper her ring.
He reached forward and removed her glove, gently sliding the ring onto her finger, his voice full of pride and love as he spoke, his eyes locked with hers.
"I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
The minister handed her his ring and her voice wavered with her tears and her love as she spoke, sliding the ring onto his finger.
"I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
They then joined their right hands and looked to the minister as his voice filled the space once again.
"Now that Isabella and Jasper have given themselves to each other by solemn vows, with the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of rings, I pronounce that they are husband and wife, in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Those whom God has joined together, let no one put asunder."
The minister had them kneel then as he prayed over them, asking God's blessing upon their union. They rose then and faced each other, their smiles bright with their joy.
"Isabella and Jasper, having witnessed your vows of love to one another, it is my joy to present you to all gathered here as husband and wife."
With a bright and understanding smile he gestured to Jasper while inclining his head.
"You may kiss your bride."
Her breath hitched as she watched her husband step forward, his eyes suspiciously bright as he lifted her veil reverently.
Her eyes slid closed as she felt his warm, soft lips claim hers, gently, sweetly, lingering mere seconds, but with a promise of so much more.
She felt a single tear trace down her cheek and smiled as he caught it quickly with his thumb.
"None of that now wife." He whispered. "Today is a day for happiness."
She laughed as he caught her hand, leading her from the church to the waiting carriage that would take them to the Whitlock Estate for the reception.
Looking at him as he was just now, so proud and confident and full of joy, she couldn't wait to get past the reception and on to their real joining.
The joining of body and soul.
The next month was a whirlwind of activity that would have been breathtaking to behold had she not been the focus of it.
Countless dinner parties, luncheons with all the society ladies that she'd yet to meet and two celebration Balls, one held at her father's estate and one at the Whitlock's, all combined to put her in a spin.
Then there were the many shopping trips and fittings and consultations, and meetings with the minister that she and Jasper were required to attend before he would declare them fit in the eyes of God for matrimony…..she was ready to pitch a match into the middle of it all and call it a day.
That was, until she looked into the joyful and passion filled eyes of her soon-to-be husband and suddenly all that she'd gone through was a trifle and she would do all that and much more if asked.
Oh, was he ever a dangerous creature, even as a human.
She had to admit though that if it hadn't been for Jasper's mother and sisters, she would have been sunk. As it was, she was barely treading water, but the Whitlock ladies were experts and between their organizational skills and Emily's cool and calm efficiency, Isabella managed to maintain her genteel bearing with a nod and a smile.
As a matter of fact, she'd only had to use her secret outlet twice during the entire month.
She smiled to herself as she thought of the look of shock that had passed through her father's eyes as she'd, ever so sweetly, called one of his business associates a fucking asshole, in fluent Italiano of course. She'd gone on to regale him with the fact that she thought he was a stinking, fat pig with absolutely no manners whatsoever, until her father had gripped her arm and discreetly marched her to his study.
There, he had proceeded to give her a stern talking to just before he smirked, saluted her with his freshly poured bourbon and complimented her on the fluency of her Italiano, not to mention her choice of insults.
Neither of them had mentioned it since, and curiously, the man had suddenly left town for parts unknown.
Her father could be very discreet if he chose to be.
And so the month had passed by, at times, seemingly in the blink of an eye and at other times, such as when she found herself close to Jasper, it dragged on and on.
Still, pass by it had, and that was how she came to be staring at herself in a tri-paneled full length mirror, wearing the most beautiful custom made wedding gown she'd ever seen as she readied herself to speak her vows and become Mrs. Jasper Andrew Whitlock in just a matter of minutes.
With a nod of approval to her reflection and a smile to her attendants, she moved away from the mirror, now just waiting for the knock on the door that would be her father retrieving her to walk down the aisle.
~o0o~
Jasper jumped slightly at the solid knock that sounded on his door, before taking a breath and settling himself.
He certainly wouldn't be any good to his wife if he couldn't compose himself in such a situation as this, now would he?
"Come in."
He smiled calmly at his father as he entered and patted him on the shoulder.
"Son, I just wanted to say that I'm proud of the man you are and I'm sure that I'll be proud of the husband and father you'll become."
They both took seats at that point, Jasper sipping some cool water. "Thank you father. I've always been proud to be a Whitlock and I've always striven to bring pride and honor to our family."
His father nodded. "You've always succeeded. I couldn't ask for a finer son."
He leaned forward. "Now, for my other purpose in seeking you out. I would speak to you about your wedding night and how to treat your bride. There's a proper way to go about things son, so that you don't hurt her and that's what we'll discuss now."
Jasper blushed. He knew he did. But he never dropped his gaze from his father's, for he'd been taught from an early age, not to.
So he listened attentively to the man he loved and respected above all others, as he told him all he would need to know about taking care of his wife and pleasing her as a woman.
There was nothing ribald about their discussion. There were no knowing smirks exchanged or triumphant slaps on the back. This was a serious discussion from a very good man and husband to his son on his wedding day and Jasper found himself, once again, awed by the man his father was.
It was his fervent prayer to be just like him.
~o0o~
A smile overtook Bella's face at the knock on the door. It's seems it was time and the butterflies in her stomach took to wild flight.
This was really happening! She was going to marry the love of her existence and tears filled her eyes at the thought.
She laughed a teary laugh when Mrs. Whitlock pressed a lace handkerchief into her hand, as she dabbed at her eyes with her own.
She hugged her gently. "It's time for me to go take my place now. We'll see you after the ceremony sweet girl."
Bella grasped her hand. "I can't thank you enough for all you've done for me. I would have been truly lost if not for you."
Mrs. Whitlock hugged her again. "It was my pleasure dear. Now, time to go see you marry my son!"
She left through the open door and Bella spotted her father there waiting.
He moved forward, taking her gloved hand. "Are you sure about all of this Bella?"
Bella turned, facing him as she looked up into his eyes. "Yes, dad." She whispered.
He pulled her in, hugging her gently. "I'll always be here for you. I know that wasn't always the case, but it is now, and will be from now on."
She nodded against his chest. "I love you dad. Thank you for all that you've done for me. I'll never forget it and it's meant so much to me to have you with me."
He backed away a pace holding her hands away from her body to get a good look at her. "You are absolutely beautiful. I've never seen a lovelier bride."
She blushed and looked down with a smile. "Thanks dad."
After pulling her veil over, he held his arm for her. "Shall we? Too much longer and he's going to think you changed your mind."
She nodded and took his arm. She took as deep a breath as she could at the entry doors, and then the attendants swung them open.
He father patted her hand at the slight hitch in her breath and she gave him a tiny nod as he led her down the aisle.
She saw him when she was half way to the alter and she swore she had never beheld such a beautiful being as he. She couldn't take her eyes from him. He fairly glowed with happiness and her smile was a constant as she approached, his mood infectious, even at a distance.
Finally, she was there, her father placing her gloved hand in Jasper's before stepping back into his place as the ceremony began.
"Dearly beloved, we have come together in the presence of God to witness and bless the joining together of this man and this woman in Holy Matrimony. The bond and covenant of marriage was established by God in creation, and our Lord Jesus Christ adorned this manner of life by His presence and first miracle at the wedding in Cana of Galilee. It signifies to us the mystery of the union between Christ and His Church, and Holy Scripture commends it to be honored among all people.
The union of husband and wife is intended by God for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort given each other in prosperity and adversity; and, when it is God's will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord. Therefore marriage is not to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly, but reverently, deliberately, and in accordance with the purposes for which it was instituted by God."
The minister paused and smiled at them, but Isabella hardly noticed, her gaze locked with Jasper's, their eyes saying much more than words ever could.
"Into this union Isabella Marie Salvatore and Jasper Andrew Whitlock now come to be joined. If any of you can show just cause why they may not be lawfully wed, speak now, or else forever hold your peace."
Bella held her breath for the beats that the minister paused, her smile brightening and relief filling her when he continued without interruption.
"I charge you both, here in the presence of God and the witness of this company, that if either of you know any reason why you may not be married lawfully and in accordance with God's Word, do now confess it."
Again, he paused, the moments passing in silence before he moved on.
"Isabella Marie Salvatore, will you have this man to be your husband; to live together with him in the covenant of marriage? Will you love him, comfort him, honor and obey him, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto him as long as you both shall live?"
Her eyes filling with tears, she answered. "I will."
"Jasper Andrew Whitlock, will you have this woman to be your wife; to live together with her in the covenant of marriage? Will you love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, be faithful unto her as long as you both shall live?"
His voice rang out, strong and steady as he answered. "I will."
The minister then addressed the many guests.
"Will all of you witnessing these promises do all in your power to uphold these two persons in their marriage?"
The answer rang out in a union of voices. "We will."
The minister nodded and looked down at his book of prayers, his voice ringing out once again after a brief beat of silence.
"Who gives this woman to be married to this man?"
Damon stepped forward, his voice clear and strong as he answered. "I do."
Bella sent him a watery smile as he winked at her before stepping back and taking his seat for the rest of the ceremony, his heart aching with pride and love for his only child.
The ministers voice sounded again. "Please face your bride, take her right hand in yours, and recite your vows."
She felt the steady strength in his hand as he faced her, reciting his vows, his voice sure and unwavering.
"In the name of God, I, Jasper Andrew Whitlock, take you, Isabella Marie Salvatore, to be my wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow."
Bella took a deep breath as she fought to steady her nerves. It was her turn now. Breathing out slowly, she opened her eyes and began.
"In the name of God, I, Isabella Marie Salvatore, take you, Jasper Andrew Whitlock, to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love, cherish, and obey until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow."
The minister called for the rings then and took them from the bearer with a smile and nod.
"Bless, O Lord, these rings as a symbol of the vows by which this man and this woman have bound themselves to each other; through Jesus Christ our Lord."
The guests all responded in unison, "Amen", and the minister asked them to face each other as he handed Jasper her ring.
He reached forward and removed her glove, gently sliding the ring onto her finger, his voice full of pride and love as he spoke, his eyes locked with hers.
"I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
The minister handed her his ring and her voice wavered with her tears and her love as she spoke, sliding the ring onto his finger.
"I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, and with all that I am, and all that I have, I honor you, in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."
They then joined their right hands and looked to the minister as his voice filled the space once again.
"Now that Isabella and Jasper have given themselves to each other by solemn vows, with the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of rings, I pronounce that they are husband and wife, in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Those whom God has joined together, let no one put asunder."
The minister had them kneel then as he prayed over them, asking God's blessing upon their union. They rose then and faced each other, their smiles bright with their joy.
"Isabella and Jasper, having witnessed your vows of love to one another, it is my joy to present you to all gathered here as husband and wife."
With a bright and understanding smile he gestured to Jasper while inclining his head.
"You may kiss your bride."
Her breath hitched as she watched her husband step forward, his eyes suspiciously bright as he lifted her veil reverently.
Her eyes slid closed as she felt his warm, soft lips claim hers, gently, sweetly, lingering mere seconds, but with a promise of so much more.
She felt a single tear trace down her cheek and smiled as he caught it quickly with his thumb.
"None of that now wife." He whispered. "Today is a day for happiness."
She laughed as he caught her hand, leading her from the church to the waiting carriage that would take them to the Whitlock Estate for the reception.
Looking at him as he was just now, so proud and confident and full of joy, she couldn't wait to get past the reception and on to their real joining.
The joining of body and soul.
DISCLAIMER: Twilight and its inclusive material is copyright to Stephenie Meyer. Original creation, including but not limited to plot and characters, is copyright to the respective authors of each story. No copyright infringement is intended.