Takin' a break...

I'm taking a break from writing fan fiction for a bit. I'm getting some ideas for a new story together and doing some research.

Take this time to check out other authors. Put me on Author Alert, if you'd like. I'll be back again when the next story is ready to go! See you then!

Saddle Up Your Heart - Chapter 13

Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight, but I'm grateful to Stephenie Meyer for her dream/vision. Please don't steal my original work.

Epilogue – 10 years later

"Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate."

~ Psalm 127:3-5

Bella POV

Every time I'd been in the family way, I'd been filled with wonder at God's awesome work inside my body as He knit together a new little person. It started with Anthony a little over ten years ago and had swelled to include Jane Elizabeth, John Michael, Rebecca Ann, Peter Benjamin, and Emma Rachel.

Unfortunately, as soon as Emma was born, I began hemorrhaging and Dr. Cullen had to perform a procedure to stop the blood flow. Now I'm no longer able to have children. Once I finished grieving about that and realized I could still have a full life with the beautiful family God already blessed me with, I haven't looked back.

In fact, just this week, Dr. Cullen released me to go back to my normal household duties. I'll be glad to take some of the work off Gran's shoulders. I know she would do anything for our family, but she's not getting any younger.

Several years after Edward, Gran and I moved to Washoe Valley, Dr. Cullen and his family followed us. There were several doctors in Virginia City now and none in our immediate vicinity. Prior to their move, if someone was injured or in need of a doctor, they had to go to Virginia City or Carson City. The only one not happy about the move was Ali. She liked being near us, of course, but she missed Jasper. They wrote each other letters almost every day.

One day, Jasper came to visit Dr. and Mrs. Cullen and ask for Ali's hand in marriage. Jasper would be moving to Carson City to work in the capitol building. He was very interested in the political process since his father had been mayor for so many years. Dr. and Mrs. Cullen knew he and Ali had formed a strong bond over the years and agreed to the marriage. I was honored when Ali asked me to be her matron of honor.

Their wedding was the first in our new church which was also used as a school house. A kind pastor and his former school teacher wife moved to our community and were blessing us by being our spiritual guidance and our school teacher. It was unheard of at the time to hire an already-married school teacher, but our tiny community couldn't pass up the opportunity once we met the couple. They fit in so naturally, as did their three children.

Our best friends remained Garrett and Kate Cooper. It was so nice to have Kate to spend time with when our husbands drove cattle to market in Carson City or Reno. When that happened about twice a year, she and her brood of three would stay at our house. She had Tanya and two sons, William and Henry. Anthony and Tanya had already taken to teasing each other mercilessly – I could see where that was going to end up in a few years, no matter how much his father wanted to deny it. Mothers know these things.

Ben and Angela Cheney remained in Virginia City. Angela wasn't working as a dressmaker as much as she was previously after having twin boys. They kept her busy, as she told me in her sporadic letters. My own letters to her were few and far between. Being a mother of six didn't leave one much time for letter-writing!

Papa and Mom continued to live in Chicago. They were planning another trip to Nevada when Papa had a heart attack. His doctor told him he should limit any undue stress in his life and the trip was cancelled. Dr. Cullen disagreed with Papa's doctor, citing new research about diet contributing to heart attacks and not just stressful situations. The trip was never rescheduled, so Papa and Mom have not been out to meet their grandchildren yet.

Eli and Rachel Cope have been taking it easy the last couple of months, letting Mike and Jessica Newton take over the running of the boarding house. Yes, Mike and Jessica finally married. Eric Smith took over as sheriff when it became certain Mike would be taking on the boarding house full-time. Eli and Rachel thought Mike and Jessica would make fine innkeepers. Jessica had already been helping out since I'd been there, so it was nice to see her get this well-deserved promotion.

We recently received a letter from Emmett McCarty. His father, Patrick, found a large silver vein in one of the mines and became wealthy almost overnight. Mayor Isaac Hale found it in his heart to let his daughter, Rosalie, date Emmett after that occurred. I wanted to grit my teeth in frustration. It was obvious, even when I was their teacher; those two children were sweet on each other. Why not let them date because they love each other – not because of one's status of wealth?

I didn't know what I was going to do with Sam, Paul, and now Embry, our newest ranch hand! They spoiled our children something fierce. It seemed as soon as one of our children could walk across the floor, the next day, I'd see them riding around on a horse in the front yard for a bit with one of those men. Honestly – you'd think those men were teenagers! They do protect the children as well. Having six offspring, you can't be everywhere at once. I'm certain all my children have avoided bodily injury in one way or the other because one of those men was looking out for them.

Gran is such a comfort to me. I don't know how I would've gotten through all those early years on the ranch or child-raising without her. I know Edward certainly would not have made it through his bout of typhus without her. Her relationship with Edward is really something to see. They just adore each other – it's written all over both their faces. Although she's thriving here in northern Nevada, I know she won't live forever. But until that day comes, I'm going to enjoy every moment with her.

And then there was Edward – my patient, romantic, loving, handsome husband. Thankfully I wasn't blushing as much as when I was a new bride, but he could still cause my stomach to turn to butterflies when he gave me a certain look over the dining room table or caressed my cheek with his hand. He was always so good about showing affection and showing me in a thousand different ways he loved me in addition to always saying the words. He never faltered in the "teamwork" approach to marriage – he ran every major decision through me. If it was something I didn't know a great deal about, such as the cattle, he would patiently explain the history of the situation so I could come to my own conclusion.

I happened on a conversation the other day between Edward and his father – he was pushing his father to release me to go on an anniversary trip to Carson City without the children. It's barely been six weeks! I can't leave my baby! Dr. Cullen agreed – but only if we take the Emma with us. Edward grudgingly agreed.

This morning, we are packed and Dr. and Mrs. Cullen are coming to stay while we are away for two nights. The children love it when their grandparents come to visit.

Once we were on the road, I asked, "Edward, what was the rush to get away?"

He sighed and said, "I just needed some time with you alone. All day, the children are pulling at your skirts, demanding your attention." His lower lip stuck out, pouting.

I put my hand up to his face and pulled it toward me to kiss away his pout. Thankfully, Bear knew the way to Carson City as it was quite a long kiss.

"And you, darling," I reminded him, "have cows demanding your attention all day. But I still love you and will always love you, Mr. Cullen."

I threaded my arm through his as he kept them securely on the reins and put my head on his shoulder. He hummed in contentment. "We need more of this, Bella – just you and me."

"All right," I agreed. "We'll send the children to bed earlier and we can have more of this." He agreed and we continued on. We laughed about various things the children did – how our girls could pout just like him and when they called him "Daddy" along with the pout and the bat of an eyelash, they could get just about anything they wanted. I don't know where they learned that – must've been from their father.

When we arrived in Carson City, we checked in at a hotel and then went to visit Jasper and Alice. Jasper was at work. Alice hadn't seen Emma and wanted to spend some time with her. Edward told her we'd be back in a few hours.

I had no idea what his plan was until we arrived back at the hotel. "Oh, Mr. Cullen," I told him as we entered our room once again and the door shut behind us, "you are devious."

"Devious?" he said as his eyebrows shot up. "You used to say I was romantic!"

"You are, my darling Edward, you are," I said, as I pulled him to me, crushing his lips and body against mine.

The End

Saddle Up Your Heart - Chapter 12

Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight, but I'm grateful to Stephenie Meyer for her dream/vision. Please don't steal my original work.

"And ye shall serve the Lord your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee." ~ Exodus 23:25

Edward POV

Our life in Washoe Valley, Nevada, was rich and full – especially since Edward Anthony Cullen, Jr. was born seven months ago. And I'm proud to say, my bride is in the family way yet again. That little boy is the light of all our lives. There is rarely a moment when he's put down except for the night to sleep. Bella is quick to point out every little feature which looks exactly like me. I'm sincerely praying the next one is a girl who looks exactly like her beautiful mother.

Since my own grandparents passed away when I was very young, I was never able to develop a relationship with them, but Gran definitely fills that role for me. I never knew there was so many ways for her to call me "Dee." I can tell just by her tone of that one-syllable nickname if I'm in trouble in some way, if I've hurt Bella's feelings, if she needs help with something, or she's just calling my attention to something. I adore Gran – pure and simple. Even though I'm much taller than she is, I still accept every single one of her hugs and feel like a little boy when she hugs me.

I've also finally got it through my thick skull courting didn't stop with the wedding. Oh no – courting will go on for the rest of my life. A little while after we were married, I'd find Bella sad for no reason, so I asked her what was wrong. She replied, "Nothing." I knew that wasn't really the answer. I dug a little deeper and found out she actually liked those little expressions of affection I left her at the school house in the mornings before she got there. So I began doing those things again – not every day, but randomly – and not always in the morning. At times I'd find some nice desert flower at the edge of the ranch I thought she might like in the middle of the day and bring it to her. Any expression of courting on my part always brought a return from her – a kiss, a favorite dessert, a massage for my aching muscles – so I was definitely going to keep up my end of the courting process!

The Cullen and Cooper ranches were so successful, Garrett and I each had to hire additional men. I chose to hire Sam Uley and Paul Davis after I rode Bear down to the assay office to wire Mike in Virginia City to have him do a thorough background check on each of them. Since they were both middle-aged men, I doubted anything negative would come back on either one. Sam had lost his wife and son during childbirth many years before and had never remarried; Paul was a confirmed bachelor. They were both very respectful of Bella and Gran. I wouldn't have it any other way. They also doted on Anthony, as we'd come to call our son, when they came to the house for meals.

Sam was gifted with metal working and came up with the idea for our cattle brand. Garrett had already chosen a plain "C" for his cattle, so I couldn't have the same. One evening after dinner, Sam was drawing on some paper and came up with a simple outline of a swan with a "C" inside its body near its tail feathers. We were all very enthusiastic about the design. He felt sure he could make a brand out of it. Our ranch would never be named the Swan-Cullen Ranch, but it was a unique way of including Bella and Gran.

As I looked out on Washoe Lake from our ranch on this nice autumn day, I could sense winter would soon be upon us. I knew Sam and Paul preferred to sleep in the barn, but I wanted to construct a bunkhouse attached to the side of the barn which would house a heat source along with room for up to four ranch hands. Sam and Paul had already weathered one winter in the barn, but one never knew if the weather would be quite as mild this next winter. The Old Farmer's Almanac was fairly reliable, but northern Nevada was famous for strange weather throughout a given day.

I went to a neighbor's house on the other side of us who I normally didn't visit, but we were still friendly. I asked if I could borrow a saw and an extra hammer. Seeing the time of day, they asked if I would join them for lunch. I agreed and then set off back toward home with the borrowed tools.

After a span of about four or five days, Paul, Sam and I had the bunkhouse nearly finished, including a small fireplace at one end. Bella and Gran were busy making quilts for each bed. The inside of the bunkhouse wasn't fancy. The door was at the near end, the beds were bunked along each wall, and there was additional room for each resident to keep a trunk of belongings or clothing. Near the fireplace was a small window for ventilation and to add some light during the day.

After my beautiful bride provided a wonderful dinner and we sat talking afterward in the sitting room, I rubbed my head. I was not one who was prone to get headaches very often.

"Edward," Bella said, her voice laced with concern, "What is it?"

"It's just a headache, love. I'm sure it will be gone by morning. Shall we prepare for bed?" I asked.

Anthony was already asleep for the night. We doused the oil lamps and made our way toward the bed. Bella stopped and retrieved a cold washcloth for my head. She was such a good and caring wife. I kissed her soundly and rubbed her protruding belly as I pulled her next to me to sleep for the night.

In the morning I woke to find my head felt no better. That was strange. I looked over to find Bella's side of the bed empty – another strange occurrence. Normally we rose at the same time each morning. What time was it? I looked for my pocket watch on the night stand beside the bed and brought it up so my eyes could focus on it. 7:30 a.m.? I'd never slept this late since we'd had the ranch! I needed to get up. I attempted to do just that and felt a wave of nausea come over me like I'd never felt before and groaned. Then I cleared my throat. Where had this sore throat come from?

I must've been pretty loud as Bella came to the closed door and tentatively asked, "Edward?"

"Yes," I replied and then flopped back down onto the pillow.

She opened the door and asked, "How are you feeling?"

"Not well," I responded, covering my eyes with my forearm. I felt feverish and I flung the covers off my heated chest.

Since I'd been married, I'd either forgone my union suit completely when I slept or stripped it down to my waist before getting into bed. Last night had been the latter.

I heard Bella's voice catch in her throat and a small cry of, "Oh!" tore through her parted lips. She was staring at me. I looked down at my own uncovered chest. I was developing red spots on my chest and stomach.

She ran out of the bedroom and it sounded as if she was speaking to Gran. Sure enough, within a few moments, Gran was in our bedroom, right next to the bed, looking at my naked chest. If I didn't feel bad enough already, I might feel embarrassed as well.

The next thing I knew, Gran was leading Bella out of the room and gathering up some of her dresses, as well as some of Anthony's clothes as well. What was going on?

"Bella," Gran said seriously, looking only at her, "I want you and Anthony to go to Garrett and Kate's and stay there until I come get you. When you get there, have Garrett or one of his men ride to the assay office and wire Dr. Cullen to come immediately. Edward is ill and needs him. And then all of you need to pray, baby girl – just pray."

I wanted to protest. I truly did. If anything could make me feel better, it would be Bella surrounding me with herself and her love. I didn't want to be away from her or Anthony.

Bella stifled a sob, took one last, long look at me and then was gone. Anthony was gurgling to himself out in the kitchen. A short while later, I heard the front door close softly; then I realized I could no longer hear Anthony.

I must've fallen asleep – I was so tired, but woke up to capable hands placing cool cloths on my feverish chest. I didn't open my eyes as I could tell it was still light outside and I couldn't take the stabbing pain in my eyes.

I made a grab for the hands moving capably about my chest. "Bella?" I croaked.

"No, Dee. It's Gran," the voice said soothingly.

"Bella," my raw throat croaked out again. "Where is she? I need to get to her."

"She's fine," the voice replied. "She and Anthony are at the Cooper's. You're not going anywhere."

I cracked open one eye and looked at Gran and then shut it again from the influx of light. "Who is Anthony?"

"Oh my," Gran said quietly. "Dear Lord, please send Dr. Cullen on the fastest horse in Virginia City." I went back to sleep after Gran helped me take a sip of the water on the night stand.

I woke up some time later to a cool stethoscope being placed on my chest. "Dad?" I croaked wearily.

"Yes, son, it's me," he said as he laid one of his hands across my brow.

"What's wrong with me?"

"I'm not certain yet. I'm going to talk with Gran and get more information. I'll be back," he said.

I could hear snatches of conversation out in the dining room. Gran was speaking, "About a week ago…building the bunk house…borrowed some tools from a neighbor…he wasn't home for lunch…told us he ate over there. And now this – that's the only thing that's been different."

My father asked a few more questions and then the front door shut. I must've fallen asleep again because I woke up in a panic. Where was I? Whose room was this? "Help!" I called out.

Gran came bustling in. "Dee, what is it?"

"Where am I?" I asked.

"You're on your ranch – in your very own bed." She came to the side of the bed and held my hand. I understood the words she was saying. They just didn't seem to make sense. I owned a ranch? I didn't know what was wrong with me, but I hoped it would pass soon.

Dad was back later. I heard him speaking with Gran and two other people with deep voices in the dining room again. It was strange I knew this house but I didn't know this room. I decided it was better to keep my eyes closed and think about Bella when I wasn't sleeping. Why wasn't she here? I couldn't wait to make her my wife. I had such a bright future mapped out for us.

Dad entered the room I was in again. "Edward," he said, "I've been to see the neighbors you went to visit about a week ago. They already had another doctor in to visit them. One of their family members has passed away."

"What?" I said, shocked.

"Yes," he affirmed. "After consulting with the other doctor, it appears you have typhus. It is a life-threatening disease of the intestinal system. Typhoid fever is spread when the bacteria is 'shed' by infected people who handle food or fluids without washing their hands after using the outhouse. Your symptoms will include sore throat, fever, headache, nausea, and loss of appetite. Some severe cases also have delirium and it can cause death. It normally lasts about three to four weeks. But you are strong, Edward. I know you can beat this."

"Dad," I managed weakly as I felt tears spring from my eyes and run down the sides of my face.

"I'm here for you until you're well again. I'm not going anywhere unless it's to update Bella on your condition. Gran is making some broth for you which I hope you're able to eat. It will help to flush the toxins out of your body," he said.

"How is Bella? I can't wait to marry her," I said adamantly.

"Son, you're already married to Bella, you have a handsome son named Anthony, and another baby on the way. You own this successful ranch. That's why you need to get well. You have everything to live for. Rest now until Gran comes in with your broth," he replied.

Now that Dad knew what I had, Sam and Paul weren't off-limits to my room. After about two weeks, I welcomed their short visits every other day when I was awake. I was glad to have such faithful workers. I was still so tired and needed a lot of rest. The delirium had finally left me and I knew where I was and seemed to have all my faculties about me again. The ache in my chest had not let up as Bella and Anthony weren't allowed to come back to the house until I was completely well.

I looked over at the night stand where a daisy was resting in a glass of water. I pulled the piece of paper lying beside it toward me to read the words again: My dearest Edward, Every day I pray for your full recovery as I long to hold you in my arms again. Anthony misses his daddy as well. He asks several times a day for "dada" and it breaks my heart to tell him we can't see you just yet. Your dad has been over to the Cooper's everyday to give us an update on your condition and then we pray yet again. I'm sure Gran is taking very good care of you, but I want to be the one taking care of my husband. I know your dad and Gran are keeping me and the baby away as a precaution. I hope you accept this small token of "courting" from me even though I'm not as good at it as you are, my darling husband. I will love you always, Bella.

I had to get better – for her, for us, for our future together.

Finally the day came when I could get out of bed for more than a few moments. I got up and ate a normal dinner with Gran, Dad, Sam, and Paul. The rest of the house never looked so good! After dinner, I sat by the fire and talked with everyone for a bit. It felt so right and so normal, I almost couldn't believe it. Gran was gone for a moment as she changed the sheets on my bed, but then she was back, joining in the conversation as if she'd never left.

The next day, I was up at the normal time and surprised Gran by helping her gather the eggs from the chickens. There was definitely a chill coming. It was a good thing the bunk house was finished.

After breakfast, I went with Dad to the neighbor's to express my condolences over the loss of their family member. They explained they had improved their cleanliness methods and were sorry for any illness they caused me. I thanked them, but frankly was just glad to have it over and done with.

A few more days went by and I was firmly back in the saddle and my regular duties. It was time to go get Bella. After lunch, I picked a bouquet of black-eyed Susans from the backyard and carried them down the road to the Cooper's. Did I look like a man in love? I didn't care – I wanted and needed my wife back – now.

Bella was sitting on the porch with Kate with the babies playing at their feet. I could see them as their house angled toward the road. I couldn't wait to hold her face in my hands again. I couldn't wait to kiss her beautiful, plump lips again.

I must've caught her attention somehow, even though I didn't wave or do anything out of the ordinary. She jumped up immediately and began running toward me. As soon as I saw she was running in my direction, I began running toward her. I couldn't get to her fast enough. We met somewhere in the middle of the road, my arms going around her immediately and my head dipped down so my lips were branding hers hotly. I didn't care if we were the talk of the neighborhood for weeks.

When I found my voice, I said, "I missed you, Mrs. Cullen."

"Oh, Edward, I've missed you, too – so much!" she cried.

"These are for you, love," I said, offering her the flowers. And there it was – that beautiful blush on her cheeks that I'd been missing for weeks now.

"Thank you!" she gushed as she dipped her nose in to smell them.

"Are you ready to come home?" I asked. She nodded and we continued on to the Cooper's.

I updated Garrett and Kate on my condition and invited them and their men for a celebration dinner that evening. Bella gathered her things. I carried Anthony who was smiling and babbling about "dada" over and over and we made our way home.

My dad would be leaving in the morning now that I was cured from my bout with typhus. I hoped to never encounter something like that again. It was horrible. Gran groused good-naturedly about having extra people for dinner, but now that Bella and Anthony had returned, she was happy as a clam.

After dinner was over and the extra company had gone, Bella and I were the only ones left in the sitting room. Anthony had gone to bed earlier. He'd been quite entertaining during dinner, but kept fighting a losing battle with his heavy eyes.

I got up from my chair near the fireplace and pulled Bella to me. I softly hummed a tune – from where, I couldn't remember – and danced her around, holding her close. Feeling Bella's head lying against my chest as she swayed against me was divine.

"Feeling romantic tonight, are you, Edward?" she asked softly.

"I am, love," I replied in between humming. Then I danced her right into our bedroom so we could continue what we'd started.

Author's Notes:

I don't know how other fan fiction authors write their chapters, but mine usually start with a conversation with Edward (or Bella) and me in my head. The majority of this chapter began at 3 a.m. one morning. I personally am a big fan of sleeping at 3 a.m. Edward – not so much, apparently.

From my online research: Typhoid fever is a life-threatening disease of the intestinal system caused by the typhoid bacillus, Salmonella typhosa, which lives only in humans who carry it in their bloodstream and intestinal tract. Typhoid fever is spread when the bacteria is "shed" by infected people who handle food or fluids without washing their hands, or when sewage carrying the bacteria contaminates water, milk, and other foods. Although relatively rare since the advent of vaccines and improvement of public sanitation (about 400 cases are reported annually in the United States, 70% of which are acquired through international travel), typhoid fever was once common and still arises in impoverished areas of the world where squalid conditions prevail and medical treatment is unavailable. Symptoms of the disease become evident within one to two weeks after infection and include sore throat, fever, headache, nausea, and loss of appetite, which are sometimes followed by the appearance of red spots on the chest and abdomen and, in severe cases, delirium and death. As the bacteria invade the intestines, they cause ulcerations and bleeding. This can lead to holes in the intestines and the bacteria can invade the bloodstream and sometimes spread to the bone marrow or spinal cord causing meningitis. The fever generally lasts three to four weeks and then subsides.

Antibiotics were not discovered until 1928 by an Englishman, Sir Alexander Fleming. Thank the British for that (and Robert Pattinson, too, of course)!

Saddle Up Your Heart - Chapter 11

Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight, but I'm grateful to Stephenie Meyer for her dream/vision. Please don't steal my original work.

I just wanted to give a little shout-out to my friend, Jan, in Toronto. She'll know why. Never let it be said a person can't weave a current event into a fan fiction set in the old West!

"Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life." ~ Proverbs 31:10-12

Bella POV

As Edward and I made our way hand-in-hand to the large table downstairs in the International Hotel dining room where our families were already gathered for breakfast, our stomachs rumbled in unison. We'd had some cheese, crackers and grapes for a snack the evening before and were now famished. Edward pulled me closer and I blushed. He was so patient and sweet. There would never be another husband better suited to me – ever!

Alice patted the vacant chair next to her and said excitedly, "Miss Bella, sit here!" Edward dutifully pulled out the chair and I sat in it. He sat in the chair on the other side of me. "Oops," Alice corrected, "I guess you're not 'Miss Bella' anymore." And then she giggled.

I smiled as I pulled her into a hug and asked, "What would you like to call me?"

Her brow furrowed in concentration for a moment. She glanced over at my Papa who was talking with Dr. Cullen about something and said shyly, "I heard your Papa call you 'Bells.' Since you're part of our family now, can I call you that? Edward calls me 'Ali.' You can call me that if you want."

"I think that would be just perfect, Ali," I said in response and squeezed her hand. She then presented me with a picture she had drawn the evening before of our wedding. I was amazed at how accurate she was in the lifelike details in this close-up drawing of Edward and me. This must have taken her a very long time. "Oh Ali," I gusted out, "this is absolutely beautiful! Thank you! Before we leave today, I will buy a frame at the store to hang this in at our new home."

I gave her another close hug and then shared her drawing with Edward. He, too, was amazed by his sister's talent. Eventually, the picture was shown to everyone at the table. Alice received well-deserved praise from all. I was glad to see I wasn't the only one who could blush in this newly-blended family!

Once our meals arrived, conversation turned to the events of the day. Papa and Mom were leaving on the nine thirty stagecoach for Reno to catch a train back to Chicago. The Cullen's and Gran would help us pack our wagon so we could move.

Edward was discussing something with Papa and Dr. Cullen when I developed a huge lump in my throat. This could potentially be the last time I saw my parents! I knew I could still write to them whenever I wanted, but seeing them with any regularity was out of the question. My loving husband noticed my lack of appetite and asked me quietly, "Are you well, love?"

I nodded and told him briefly of my concerns. He hugged my shoulders with one arm. He nuzzled his mouth next to my ear and said, "Once our ranch starts doing well and we have the money, if you'd like a train ticket to see your parents, we can arrange that. It will kill me to be away from you for more than a day, but if that is what makes you happy, I'm more than willing to provide it."

And right then, I knew. I knew I didn't ever want to be away from him, even if it was to see my parents. My loyalties were now to my husband and not to my parents any longer. I smiled at Edward encouragingly and said, "No, my husband, I want to live out my days with you, even on those days when you're incorrigible."

I watched as his tongue quickly darted out to clear a small amount of strawberry jam that was caught at the corner of his mouth. I was mesmerized and didn't want to miss a single day of being with him.

All too soon, breakfast was over. Edward turned in the hotel room key to the front desk, along with Papa and Mom and Gran doing the same. Papa and Mom's trunks were loaded onto the stagecoach. It was time to say goodbye.

Papa shook Dr. Cullen's hand and thanked him for saving his little girl's leg. He also shook Edward's hand and thanked him for saving me from what could've been a disastrous situation. Mom stood stoically beside him.

Then they came to me. "Bells," Papa said, "we'll miss you. You have a good husband who will take care of you. And Gran will be here for you."

"I know, Papa," I said. "Thank you for everything. Thank you for coming to see me, for seeing the part of the country where I'll be living, and for meeting Edward. I do love him with all my heart. I love you, Papa." Then I impulsively gave him a hug which he surprisingly returned.

Mom was next. "I'll write, Mom. Take care of Papa for me. Have a safe journey back to Chicago." She managed a small smile and I hugged her as well.

They were installed into the red stagecoach and waved as the horses began prancing in anticipation of being set in motion. The driver slapped the reins and they were off, thundering down the street. Now that the moment had come, I couldn't muster up any tears. My home was no longer with my parents. My home was firmly in northern Nevada. I had saddled up my heart good and tight to Mr. Edward Cullen and I was never letting go.

The boardwalk became a flurry of activity as Dr. Cullen went to get our wagon from their barn. Edward gave me a hug and a gentle kiss on the lips. He asked if I wanted to go with him to Rachel's to pick up my trunks. I agreed enthusiastically. Esme, Gran and Alice went into the store to begin the shopping expedition.

Rachel was flying out of the boarding house as she saw us approaching. She came and hugged us both with tears in her eyes. "Oh, Bella and Edward! I can't believe you're moving away so soon!"

Edward said gently, "That was always the plan."

"I know," she wailed. "But that doesn't mean I have to like it!"

She escorted us into the boarding house. My trunks were already in the sitting room, waiting for us. Eli had also given us a cutting from our favorite lilac bush which we would plant as soon as we got to our new home.

Rachel also gave me a muslin towel wrapped around several of her wonderful biscuits. She hugged me again and said, "I took the liberty of opening one of your trunks and slipped the recipe inside for you, dear. I know you've become a wonderful cook and baker and you'll make them just the same as I do."

I didn't know about that, but I did know I'd miss Rachel and her friendly talkative way. Eli showed up just then. I impulsively gave him a hug before he and Edward hauled my heavy trunks outside to the wagon Dr. Cullen just drove up.

"Yep," Eli teased, "these trunks are just as heavy as before – maybe heavier. I thought you were just going to flirt with the girl, Edward, not give her piles of bricks when you were courting her."

"You know me," Edward teased back and waggled his eyebrows in my direction. My heart fluttered in my chest. I thought to myself, home is definitely right here with you, my darling husband.

After Edward and I hugged Rachel again and Edward had shook Eli's hand, we were off to the general store to join the others. I couldn't believe the pile they had already amassed!

While I was recovering, Edward received a letter from Garrett informing him of items left behind by the former residents of our new home, so we didn't need to buy an entire household full of furniture. We did, however, need to buy a new bed for ourselves and one for Gran.

A great deal of foodstuffs, seeds for a garden Gran and I would plant, a frame for Alice's drawing, bolts of fabric to make clothing, the beds, and many other things were purchased. Once it was all loaded onto the wagon along with our worldly goods and wedding gifts and tarps were tied over it, I felt sorry for Bear and Butterscotch who would be pulling this tremendous weight. The items would be stacked up above our heads in the wagon once we'd be sitting on the seat.

Now the real goodbyes came.

Ali clung to me, crying. "You will write me, won't you, Bells?"

"Of course, Ali. We'll just be down the road a bit – a couple of hours away. Besides, I'll need you to send me more pictures. The house needs to be decorated," I told her.

I hugged Esme fiercely. "Thank you for raising such a fine son," I said.

"Anything you need," she told me as she hugged me back, "you just let us know." I promised I would.

I shyly hugged Dr. Cullen and thanked him for healing my leg. "I only did the assisting. You and I both know the Great Physician did the real healing. You're like my daughter now, Bella. I'm glad Edward chose you," he said as he hugged me back.

Edward gave his own hugs and kisses to his wonderful and caring family as did Gran. Then he assisted Gran and me onto the front seat of the wagon and we were on our way. Edward loaned me one of his handkerchiefs as my tears flowed. I knew I'd miss the Cullen family tremendously.

I didn't remember the steep decline we had to contend with – I'd slept through this part on my journey to Virginia City. Gran and I kept our conversation low or didn't converse at all so Edward could concentrate on keeping the horses steady and not overturning the top-heavy wagon. That was definitely a task that required all his concentration. I prayed for Edward and that we'd make it safely.

Once we reached the bottom of the great hill, Edward was less tense and let out a sigh of relief. We stopped near a creek to let the horses rest and have some water before we continued on. Edward assured me the road from where our new home was to Carson City was flat with only a small hill that was much easier traversed than this beast. I was relieved.

As the horses were being refreshed and we were walking around, working out our tense muscles, Gran said, "You know, Edward, since we're family now, I can't be calling you by your whole name the rest of my days. That seems so stuffy and uptight."

I had to hide my smile behind my hand. Edward had never been one for nicknames. His own family never had called him by a nickname. I was certain now we were married, I could call him various terms of endearment, but not a nickname.

Edward looked over at Gran, rubbed his chin, and said, "Hmm…what did you have in mind?"

"You'd likely cringe every time I called you 'Eddie.' How about 'Dee'?" she proposed.

His mouth turned up into that devastating crooked smile and said, "Yes, I believe that would be fine." Then I saw the tips of his ears turn pink. He secretly loved it when Gran fawned over him.

Once we were back on the road, Gran chose then to tell me about Riley Biers, the man I'd gone on chaperoned walks with in Chicago. "Oh yes," she said, "After you left, he began dating this trollop of a girl. They had to marry very quickly and move in with her parents. She was in the family way in no time, if you get my meaning. It was quite the scandal!" Gran ended her statement with one of her classic snorts.

"Bella," Edward piped up with a sidelong look at me, "I'm wounded you had someone back in Chicago."

Before I could answer, Gran answered for me, "Oh pish posh, Dee. That boy was someone her parents wanted her to marry – not someone Bella wanted. And she wants you, my dear boy!" I blushed profusely as Edward sported a winning smile.

Thankfully, conversation turned to more benign topics. We were very cozy driving down the road with the three of us tucked in the wagon seat, me in the middle. I liked feeling Edward so near me, with his leg jiggling against mine.

Finally Edward turned the wagon into a small clearing in front of a grand two-story painted white house with a wrap-around porch all the way around the bottom floor. A chimney stood at one side of the grand structure. There was a small painted white cottage in the same style as the house with a small porch two hundred yards away. Still further away was a painted red barn. The property was surrounded by stately trees, one that had a rope swing hanging from it. Peeking around the house, I could see a carpet of green grass underneath the trees in the back of the property.

"Well," Edward said, "we're home!"

"This is home?" I asked, incredulous.

Edward immediately looked crestfallen. "You don't like it?"

"Like it?" I responded with a smile. "I absolutely love it!" I threw my arms around his neck enthusiastically and kissed him on the lips.

He kissed me again, and then jumped out of the wagon to help me out. "It's a good thing since we already bought it, love," he said with a smile. "Let's go look at the inside." He helped Gran out of the wagon and we all went inside.

There were indeed the five sleeping rooms I'd heard about long ago. Four were upstairs. The fifth and largest sleeping room was downstairs, along with a generous sitting room dominated by a beautiful rock fireplace, kitchen and dining room. "Oh, Edward!" I exclaimed, "I can't wait to unpack everything and get it in its proper place!"

He grabbed my hand and kissed the back of it, then said, "Let's go inspect Gran's cottage first. Then we'll let Garrett and Kate know we've arrived."

We did just that. Gran's cottage was an exact replica of the larger house, even though it was only one story and smaller. I could see we had some work ahead of us with dusting and sweeping before we could logistically unpack anything and put it away.

Edward unhooked Bear and Butterscotch from the wagon and led them to the barn for fresh water and hay. They were no doubt grateful for the rest from their labors.

We walked to the Cooper's ranch which was next door to ours. They were excited I'd finally married Edward and greeted me with hugs. They were just as warm in welcoming Gran to the family.

Since it was nearing lunchtime, they invited us to join them for their meal. Gran and I helped Kate in the kitchen to put the food on the table.

Once lunch was over, a baby's cries could be heard from a nearby room. Kate went to get the squirming bundle and introduced us to their daughter, Tanya. After Tanya was fed, Gran held her until she drifted right to sleep again. Come to think of it, babies always did feel very comfortable around her!

As we were walking back home, Gran said to both Edward and me, "It would do my heart good to have more babies around here."

"Gran!" I burst out, blushing yet again. Edward just smiled at me and closed his hand around mine.

When we arrived at the house, we cleaned Gran's cottage first and then moved onto the larger house. Later, when Gran and I were satisfied the dust had been eradicated and it was fit for human occupancy, we began unloading the wagon.

Once everything had been set to rights, it finally looked like a home. The quilt from the quilt circle was on our bed, the picture Alice drew was hung above the fireplace, dishes were safely stored in the cupboards and drawers, books were placed in the built-in bookshelves on either side of the fireplace, rugs were strategically placed on the floors. We rearranged the furniture left behind by the Black family to our liking. They had left some rocking chairs out on the porch. The lilac bush had been planted near the porch where I would be able to see it from the kitchen window when it grew larger. Gran's house was finished as well.

Edward went out to take care of the animals for the evening as Gran and I relaxed on the porch for a bit before starting dinner. Washoe Valley truly was beautiful. From our porch, you could see Washoe Lake in the distance.

During dinner, conversation was not that plentiful, although we did enjoy Rachel's biscuits. We were all tired from the long day we'd had. We'd all agreed to turn in early as we were assured by Garrett and Kate work on a ranch comes early in the morning.

As I drifted off to sleep in the arms of my handsome husband, I could think of no fuller or richer life than the one I was experiencing right now.

Saddle Up Your Heart - Chapter 10

Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight, but I'm grateful to Stephenie Meyer for her dream/vision. Please don't steal my original work.

"For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh." ~ Ephesians 5:30-31

EPOV

It was finally here – my wedding day! It had to be more agreeable than last evening after I'd left my fiancée at the boarding house. Dad had asked for my help in caring for the horses for the night. He also wanted to school me on the "birds and the bees" in relation to women. After the rudimentary discussion, he wanted to delve into the finer arts of keeping a wife happy. I'm certain I was blushing as bright red as Bella did at times and I was grateful there was often a horse between Dad and me to hide my face.

I had received permission from Rachel to cut down a lot of her lilacs for our wedding since I'm a sentimental fool like that. That was my first stop of the day right after breakfast. Mom was going with me so she could arrange them afterward at the boarding house as it was closer to the church than our house. Since tradition was I wasn't allowed to see my bride before the wedding, I asked Mom to give one blossom to Bella along with a note I'd written: To my beautiful bride, Bella. On your first day here, I gave you one of these lilacs and now I'm giving you another one on our wedding day. Rachel has agreed to give us a cutting of this bush so we can nurture it at our new home. I will love you always. Your incorrigible fiancé, Edward.

After going home and cleaning up, I went to the barber shop for a proper shave. After that, I was at loose ends until our eleven o'clock nuptials. I'd already packed and loaded all my worldly goods as well as Gran's crates onto a wagon set for moving tomorrow. I hadn't been allowed to see Bella, so her things still needed loading, which we would do tomorrow along with any foodstuffs we'd need for the next month or so. Washoe Valley was approximately ten miles from the center of Carson City, which would be the closest town to us. We wouldn't have the convenience of being in the same town as a general store. That's when I saw Judge Swan coming down the boardwalk toward me.

"Sheriff!" he called to me in greeting.

"Good morning, Judge Swan," I answered, "Although you know I'm no longer the sheriff. That distinction has been given to Mike Newton."

"No matter," he waved off my explanation. "Let's go have a drink."

"Judge Swan, I don't drink," I replied honestly.

He said, "Well, you can have a sarsaparilla then and I'll have a drink." Then he led me toward the swinging doors of the Delta Saloon.

We sat down at a table. He ordered himself a whiskey and me a sarsaparilla. I wondered what was on his mind. I didn't have to wonder long as he began talking as soon as our drinks arrived.

"Edward? Do you mind if I call you Edward?" he started.

"Not at all, sir," I replied.

He took a sip of his drink and said, "I realize I never thanked you properly for saving my little girl from the harm that might have come to her. If you hadn't arrived when you did, it's anyone's guess what could've happened."

I swallowed deeply, but said nothing. I thought the same.

Judge Swan continued, "I just want her to be safe, Edward. Assure me you'll protect her with everything you have. She'll always be my little girl."

"Judge Swan, I will protect Bella with everything I have. She is the most important person in the world to me. I love her more than anyone or anything. And now that your mother will be living with us, I will protect her as well – with everything I have," I said emphatically.

He grunted at that, but gave no hint of disagreement. His mustache finally twitched into a smile and he said, "Edward, that's all I can ask for. Thank you for taking care of them for me. I know you'll do right by them. Don't say I didn't warn you if you find both of them a handful!" He stuck out his hand to shake mine. "And call me Charlie."

"Will do…Charlie. I look forward to getting to know both of those two amazing women better. I'm certain nothing about my life will be dull with them around," I said.

"Definitely not!" he affirmed as he drained his glass. I had barely touched my sarsaparilla, but he gripped my shoulder and said, "It looks like it's about time to get into our wedding duds. I'll see you at the church, Edward."

I bid him goodbye and then headed home. I was wearing my normal Sunday best. I knew Gran had Angela make Bella a special wedding dress. I'd been forbidden to see it in advance – some other wedding tradition. There sure were a lot of wedding traditions which involved the groom being in the dark! At least I knew the rings we'd chosen for each other had been simple gold bands we'd picked out in the jewelry section of the general store earlier in the week.

I rode in the family wagon to the church. Dad thought it would be best to take it so they wouldn't have to carry the wedding gifts home afterward. Ali carried a small basket of lilac petals. She was excited about her assignment for the day. She met up with Rosalie at the church and they began planning how they would toss the petals down the aisle gracefully. It was sweet to watch her take Rosalie under her wing and guide her.

Mom and Rachel had decorated the church with all those lilacs I'd cut down. Even more lilacs were set up on the tables outside for the potluck lunch reception after our wedding.

I stood near the front of the church with Dad and Pastor Webber. Dad said to me quietly, "Are you going to daydream through this wedding as well, son?"

Apparently he'd caught me lost in thought during the Cheney's wedding! I replied, "It's only because I was thinking about marrying Bella then, Dad!" He just grinned and I grinned back. I was glad my dad was my best man. There was no better man in my book.

The last remaining guests hurried to their seats. Jasper escorted Bella's mother, Renee, to her place in the pew at the front of the church. Suddenly, I was nervous. I wasn't nervous about marrying Bella. I was one hundred percent sure about that. I was nervous about becoming a husband – wanting to do everything right the first time, always wanting to make her proud of me, never wanting to hurt her, running all those things my dad had said last night through my head. I had to get my thoughts out of my own head and think about my lovely bride – if I thought about her, I would be all right.

The wedding march on the organ had begun with Emmett marching up the aisle, carrying our rings tied securely with ribbon on a small purple quilted heart-shaped pillow. Alice and Rosalie followed him, scattering lilac petals artfully. The church was fragrant with the smell of lilacs. Was it too much? Keep your thoughts on Bella! I could hardly wait to see her!

Next up the aisle was Gran in a simple deep plum dress. She was carrying a small bouquet of lilacs. She looked very composed and sure of herself. She reached the front of the church and winked at me. I blushed immediately. Thank the Lord the congregation was now standing up and turning around to look at the beautiful bride and her father entering the church.

As soon as I caught sight of the beautiful vision dressed in white, I couldn't look away. Bella's wedding gown was full with a waistline that accentuated her hourglass figure. The sleeves were long and puffed. She wore a simple veil over her face that seemed to end at her waist in the back. It was like Charlie was escorting a beautiful white angel down the aisle toward me. Angela had outdone herself!

When Bella got closer, I noticed she was wearing the hair combs I'd given her for Christmas to secure her veil to her hair. My heart swelled at the thought. I had the special handkerchief she'd monogrammed for me in green in my pocket, but she'd never know. My thoughts were going in a million different directions until I noticed Charlie and Bella had stopped in front of me.

Pastor Webber touched me lightly and briefly on the shoulder and spoke, "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 a 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 in heart, body and mind is intended by God for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort given one another in property 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. Into this holy union Edward Anthony Cullen and Isabella Marie Swan now come to be joined. If any of you can show just cause why they may not be lawfully be married, speak now; or else forever hold your peace."

Pastor Webber waited a beat, and then continued, looking between Bella and me, "I require and charge you both here in the presence of God, that if either of you know any reason why you may not be united in marriage lawfully, and in accordance with God's Word, you do now confess it."

He waited another beat, and finding there was nothing to confess from either of us, he asked, "Who gives this woman to be wedded to this man?"

Charlie spoke up, "I do, sir." Then he removed Bella's hand from his arm, drew Bella's veil back from her face and kissed her cheek. She gave him a smile and then she moved forward to place her hand on my arm. She gave me another brighter smile. I grinned back and then faced Pastor Webber again.

He read to us from the Bible in 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 about the fact if we don't have love, we have nothing. I'd read that passage before, but I thought I'd mark it down later so I could read it again in regard to Bella.

It was time for our vows. I repeated after the pastor as I looked into Bella's beautiful eyes, "I, Edward, take you, Bella, to be my wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, or for worse, for richer, or for poorer, in sickness, and in health, to love and to honor and to cherish unconditionally. Forsaking all others, I will be faithful to you. And with this ring, I thee wed." Then I slipped her gold band on her ring finger.

Then it was Bella's turn. She looked up at me as she spoke, "I, Isabella, take you, Edward, to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, or for worse, for richer, or for poorer, in sickness, and in health, to love and to honor and to cherish unconditionally. Forsaking all others, I will be faithful to you. And with this ring, I thee wed." Suddenly, my gold band was on my ring finger, placed there by my lovely bride. It looked strange and wonderful all at the same time. I didn't know whether to look at it or Bella. I finally gave up and grasped Bella's hand and couldn't stop smiling.

Pastor Webber spoke again, "Because Edward and Isabella have desired each other in marriage, and have witnessed this before God and our gathering, affirming their acceptance of the responsibilities of such a union, and have pledged their love and faith to each other, sealing their vows in the giving and receiving of rings, I do proclaim that they are husband and wife in the sight of God and man. Let all people here and everywhere recognize and respect this holy union, now and forever."

Then he said, "Let us pray. The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. The Lord lift up the light of his countenance upon you, and give you peace. Amen."

Finally, Pastor Webber announced the words I'd been longing to hear, "Edward, you may now kiss your bride." My hands were on Bella's waist and I bent down to press my lips to hers fully to taste them for the very first time. Now this was definitely worth waiting for! Such sweetness, innocence and promise were there – waiting just for me. I gave her another quick kiss and then we turned around to face the congregation.

The pastor said, "It is now my privilege to introduce to you for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Cullen." Oh, that sounded good to my ears as we then listened to the applause of the celebrants.

We then led the recessional out of the church to the area set up outside for our potluck reception lunch. Before too many people made it outside, I gathered her up in my arms to kiss her again.

"Edward!" she exclaimed when I let her up for some air, "People are going to stare!"

"Mmm," I replied, "let them. I now have permission to do this as often as I want."

She laughed and said, "Well, I can see a wedding didn't make you any less incorrigible."

"No, love. In fact, just wait until tonight," I replied, wiggling my eyebrows suggestively.

She swatted at my arm, but now people were streaming out of the church to attend our reception and congratulate us.

There were all types of food the women had made and it was excellent! I was enjoying myself thoroughly and also sitting as close to Bella as two chairs could possibly get. I loved the fact I was able to put my arm around her shoulders or her waist and draw her to me or kiss her on the cheek or lips and no one could say anything about it – except Bella, of course. She would just smile at me and sometimes blush.

After we cut the beautifully-decorated wedding cake Rachel made us and took the ceremonial first bite, Pastor Webber had us sign the marriage license, and then we were free to open gifts. People were very generous. In addition to helping us put a large payment on our house, my parents also gave Bella my mom's horse, Butterscotch. Rachel and the quilting circle gave us the double wedding ring quilt they'd recently finished. I saw they'd included pieces of Bella's blue sapphire satin dress and pieces of an old checked work shirt of mine. I thought it was nice they'd included pieces of both our histories in the quilt for us to go forward into our future together. Other people provided dishes, kitchen towels, bedding, and various other household items we would need.

Charlie had slipped me a leather pouch full of money. I was not going to insult him by counting it then. He told me it was for taking care of his little girl and his mother. I wanted to object and say I didn't need anything for doing that – I would do it because I wanted to and my heart told me it was right. He said, "Please, Edward. It's my wedding gift to the both of you. Use it for your ranch then. Make my little girl happy." I could certainly endeavor to do that!

All our wedding gifts were being safely stored on my parents' wagon. It was time for Bella and me to make our way down the main street to the International Hotel. I had secured a honeymoon suite there – one of their best. I carried our bags – a small carpetbag for each of us containing whatever we'd need for the night and clothes for tomorrow.

People who hadn't attended our wedding shouted their congratulations to us across the street as we walked along hand-in-hand. I kept raising the back of her hand up to my mouth to kiss it, which just earned me numerous giggles from Bella.

We arrived at the opulent hotel and we went right up to the registration desk. The man behind the desk said, "Ah, Sheriff Cullen and Mrs. Cullen! Good to see you and congratulations to you both! Here is the key to your room. If you need anything, please do not hesitate to ask any member of our staff."

I led Bella over to the "rising room" and the attendant guided the contraption up to the third floor. We marveled at how such a thing could exist in modern times! It was easier than climbing the stairs.

Outside our room, I fit the key in the lock and then swung the door open. Bella made a move to go into the room, but I held tightly on her hand. "No, love, I want to carry you over the threshold," I said.

"Oh, you!" she said. "Trying to be a romantic, I see."

"Of course, it is our wedding day, after all!" I responded, as I scooped her up in my arms and carried her through the doorway.

I kicked the door shut with my foot while she was still in my arms and kissed her deeply. She returned my kiss and even welcomed it. "Oh Bella," I said, "I will never get enough of kissing you."

"Hmm," she responded, "you probably should put me down then so you have the strength to continue."

"Oh," I questioned, "now who's being incorrigible?"

She tried her best to look innocent, but she wasn't fooling me. I strode over to the brass bed which was polished to a high shine and laid her carefully on it, caging her in with my arms.

"Edward," she warned.

"What, love?" I asked.

"It's the middle of the day!"

I looked up, barely noticing. I supposed it was. I went over to the windows and pulled down the blinds and shut the curtains over them. That darkened the room considerably. I looked back over at Bella. She had propped herself up on her elbows and was watching me.

"See, love? It's much darker now," I said. Even though it was darker in the room, I could still see the blush that was evident on her beautiful face. I then continued, "I'm going to go into this dressing room off the main room and you can go behind the screen to change. When you're ready for me to come back out, let me know."

She looked at me warily but nodded.

I moved into the dressing room for about ten minutes – which felt like an eternity – and finally Bella called to me that she was ready.

I came out to find Bella in the bed with the covers pulled up to her chin. I removed my suit jacket and placed it over the back of a chair. I removed my shoes and socks next. Then I began to unbutton my white shirt. I looked over at Bella and she was still watching me. I felt as if I shouldn't make any sudden movements – she may bolt from the room at any moment.

I removed my trousers next and was only wearing my union suit. Bella had completely turned her face away from me and a deep red blush colored her cheeks. "Love," I said gently, "look at me." She did turn her eyes toward mine, but only looked me directly in the eye.

I moved cautiously toward the bed and slipped in beside her. Her eyes never left my face. I gently stroked her cheek. "Bella, I will take care of you and never hurt you. You know that, don't you?"

"Yes, but I'm scared," she fairly wailed.

"Oh, love," I said as I pulled her fully against me, "I am, too. But you know what? We'll learn together. I love you so much, Bella."

"I love you, too, Edward," she mumbled from where her face was nestled between my neck and my shoulder.

Since her neck was at the perfect angle for my mouth, I kissed it gently, sliding my tongue out to gently lick down the length of it. Bella gasped. She turned her face toward mine and I kissed her fully on the mouth and then drew back slightly.

Bella arched her neck up so her lips could meet and deepen my kiss. I smiled against her mouth. It was finally time. My hand slid over her nightgown and then my fingers began untying the satin ribbons holding it together.

Saddle Up Your Heart - Chapter 9

Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight, but I'm grateful to Stephenie Meyer for her dream/vision. Please don't steal my original work.

Thank you to Breaking Dawn for my paraphrased version of Edward's dinner-time speech to Charlie.

"Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth." ~ Ephesians 6:2-3

BPOV

My heart was positively singing. I was finally engaged to Edward! He'd done it so romantically – involving the children! I wanted him to take me into the field near the church and spin me around until we were both dizzy since I couldn't contain my happiness, but that wouldn't happen. I was stuck in this bed until my leg healed. Now I must be hearing things, so great was my love for him. It sounded like Edward's voice in the hallway after coming up the stairs, speaking with someone. What was he doing back? He was going to work just a bit ago. Not that I'd ever complain about spending one more moment with him. My imagination must be getting the better of me.

Then, there he was at the door. "Bella," he said with a smile, "your parents and grandmother have arrived." He had told me he sent them a telegram informing them of my foiled kidnapping and injuries. My face had completely healed, but bones take a lot longer. I looked at him in confusion until Edward stepped aside and my father's frame filled the doorway.

"Papa?" I asked in disbelief. I couldn't believe he was actually here, in Virginia City of all places. But there he was, chestnut brown hair slicked back with oil like always and mustache firmly in place, wearing a black suit and white shirt. He came into the room and my mom followed, her lighter brown hair swept up into the fashion of the day, wearing a yellow dress with a black and white striped inset at the bodice with a matching hat which I'm certain was the current rage in Chicago. "Mom?" And behind her bustled in the most welcome sight I could ever see, a pleasantly plump woman with light brownish gray hair in a bun who was wearing a pinstripe blouse with a dark blue skirt. "Gran!"

The last person – my beloved Gran – came over and enveloped me in a hug. It was like butter melting on one of Rachel's warm biscuits – it was so very comforting. After Gran released me, my parents came over for a hug. Sometime during the greetings, Edward dismissed the children for the day as it appeared any further education for the day was abandoned.

Papa started in immediately, "As soon as you're healed, Bella, you're coming back to Chicago with us. The west is entirely too dangerous for a girl on her own."

I could see Edward open his mouth to protest out of the corner of my eye, but I objected faster, "Papa, I want to make a life here in Nevada."

"That's ridiculous," he stated. He looked around the room and saw Edward still standing there. "I don't think you need to be here, sheriff. This is family business."

Gran was standing closest to Edward and she interrupted, "I believe he does. He's practically family."

"Mother," Papa said, "I can't believe I'm saying this, but you're finally going senile."

Gran puffed out her chest and responded, "Charlie Swan, I am highly offended that my only child speaks to me in that manner. Don't do it again. For a judge, you are so obtuse."

Papa mumbled something about being sorry, and then continued, "I suppose there is not a decent place to stay in this town."

Dr. Cullen came in the room at that point and said, "As a matter of fact, the International Hotel is right across the street. I would think the accommodations would be to your liking."

Papa and Mom made their preparations to leave my room. "We need to rest after our journey and come see you again after lunch, if you're not too tired," Papa said to me. He nodded in Edward and Dr. Cullen's direction. "Are you coming, Mother?" Dr. Cullen followed them out.

Gran said, "Yes, I'll be down in just a minute."

After my parents left, I finally let out a deep breath. When did the air become so stiff and formal?

Gran came and sat beside me on the bed. "So," she said, looking at Edward who was near the door, "is this your young man?"

I looked tenderly at him and said, "Yes."

Gran looked at Edward again and exclaimed, "He is handsome!" This made him blush. I was glad not to be the only one! She continued, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Edward."

He came over to shake her hand and said, "How do you do, ma'am?"

Gran let out an unladylike snort and replied, "None of that 'ma'am' stuff for me. We're practically family. Call me Gran!" She leaned toward him conspiratorially and said, "Please tell me you finally got your head screwed on straight and asked her to marry you."

Edward said, "Yes – just moments before you arrived. I'm pleased to say she accepted. Although, I get the feeling her father won't seem very keen on the idea."

Gran stood up then and hugged Edward, earning another blush from him. She said, "We'll give Charlie some time to get used to the idea. Just leave that to me." She turned back to give me a kiss and then was out of the room to join my parents.

After she was gone, Edward drew a wood chair up beside my bed once again and sat in it. He definitely had something on his mind.

"What is it?" I asked, my fingertips skimming over the back of his hand.

"Well, the property we just bought – not only does it have a huge house, but it also has a little cottage on it. Now that I've met your Gran, I think it's the right thing to do. But I want to ask your opinion. Some men go into marriage thinking they are the lord and master over their households, but I don't want that. I want our marriage to be a partnership, Bella. Your opinion matters just as much as mine and then we'll weigh the options. Anyway, if she's agreeable to it, I'd like your Gran to move with us after we're married. She can have her own little house so she doesn't have to be with two disagreeable newlyweds."

I couldn't stop the tears from coming. "What's wrong, love?" he asked. "Is it your leg? Do I need to go get my dad?"

"No," I managed when my tears quieted. "That is the sweetest thing I could've ever imagined hearing you say, besides proposing to me. She always says she's too old for an adventure, but I'd like to ask her to consider it."

And then I was in his arms and his soft lips were kissing my jaw near my ear, then my cheek, then the corner of my mouth. He made a strangled sob sort of sound and then pulled away. "I can't let your father take you away from me, love." He squeezed my hand while looking into my eyes, put on his hat, and then strode out the door.

The next evening, Dr. Cullen determined the Swan family would be guests at his home for dinner, me included. One of the female surgical assistants helped me dress in a simple pink blouse and a black skirt. It was so good to get out of bed and into real clothes! I felt as if I'd been wearing nightclothes and a robe for years.

Edward was assigned to carry me the short distance to their house under Dr. Cullen's direction, although I knew he wouldn't drop me. I took the opportunity to admire the strength in his muscled arms and back as he carefully carried me the distance. On the way, I attempted to play with the hair at the nape of his neck. "Bella," he whispered, "Unless you want me to carry you to Pastor Webber right now, you have to stop." Oh! I blushed and kept my hand still on his neck.

With my leg securely propped up on a stool, the Cullen home was just as welcoming to me as it was during the Christmas season. My parents seemed to tolerate Alice's chatter, but Gran got along with her famously as I knew she would.

Dinner was almost finished when Edward spoke to my father across the table, "Judge Swan, I've asked Bella to marry me. I realize that's not the traditional way. I should've asked you first. I mean no disrespect, but since Bella has already said yes and I don't want to diminish her choice in the matter, instead of asking you for her hand, I'm asking you for your blessing. I love her more than anything, and by some miracle, she loves me too. Will you give us your blessing?"

"Now, listen here, Sheriff Cullen," Charlie started. "Bella needs to be at home with her family. I've put up with her head-strong ways long enough."

"I understand you want your daughter near you as she's very special. But she's grown into a lovely young woman out here in Nevada," Edward said.

"Papa," I interjected, "would you deny me my heart's desire? I want to marry Edward. I love him."

Charlie thundered back, "Bella, you're barely twenty years old! You don't know what your heart wants!"

Gran said as she scooped another bite of berry cobbler onto her spoon, "Is it? I remember, Charlie Swan, you were chasing after Renee when you were barely twenty!"

"That's different," he said quickly, but seemed to lose some of his bluster.

Gran spoke again after she swallowed her cobbler, "It's not, Charlie. Edward and Bella are in love and they should be allowed to marry. Give them your blessing. Stop being so grumpy about it or I'll have to ask Mrs. Cullen where she stores her frying pans."

At that, Alice giggled and I had to join in. The tension in the room finally dissipated and Papa begrudgingly gave his blessing. Edward squeezed my hand and smiled in celebration.

Mom did not become excited about the upcoming nuptials until after Papa gave his blessing. She definitely was not in one of those partnership marriages like Edward suggested.

Due to my recovery, it sounded like my wedding would be planned by everyone else but me. I'd stick with my limited teaching schedule and continue to heal so I could walk down the aisle.

One day near lunchtime, Gran had come to see me to let me know she had met with Angela Cheney at the general store to put a rush order on my wedding gown. Knowing the Swan family, it was going to be something I would never be able to wear again.

Soon, Rachel arrived with lunch and Edward in tow. "Oh!" she exclaimed, "I didn't realize your Gran was here! Well, you know I made plenty, so go ahead and help yourself." Rachel and Gran had obviously met when they were out and about in town at some point.

While we were eating, Edward said, "Gran, Bella and I would like to ask you something."

"Go ahead," Gran said.

Edward explained, "I don't know if Bella told you or not, but after we're married, we're not going to stay in Virginia City. We've bought a cattle ranch in Washoe Valley, which is a couple of hours ride from here. The ranch has a large main house on it and it also has a smaller cottage on it. We were wondering if you'd like to move with us when we go."

Gran giggled like a schoolgirl. "You want me to move with you newlyweds? You don't say!"

"We do, Gran!" I said encouragingly.

Gran said, "You know I always say I'm done with my adventures in life, but I just may be up for one more. I like this countryside out here. It's so open and you can smell the fresh air. You can't do that much anymore in Chicago."

I asked, "So, will you do it, Gran?"

She gave her classic unladylike snort and said, "I believe I will. I can't wait to tell those old crows back in Chicago I'm living with the most handsome rancher in Nevada – and his wife!"

We all laughed and Edward blushed again. Gran would definitely keep him on his toes.

Before my abbreviated school term ended for the year, I asked Alice and Rosalie if they would be flower girls at my wedding. They were thrilled. Emmett would be my ring bearer. Jasper would serve as an usher.

The day Dr. Cullen took my cast off was a very happy day for me. Edward wanted to be there, but I told him "no." If I faltered during my first steps, I didn't want him to become worried and come to my rescue immediately. I needed to be able to do this on my own. As it turned out, it was only Dr. Cullen and a surgical assistant in the room. Each day, I was able to walk a little more and by the end of the week, I was as good as new and back to staying at the boarding house.

Mayor Hale came to meet with me at the boarding house one day and deliver my final month's pay. "Thank you for being an excellent teacher this year, Bella. I'm very regretful for the trouble my nephew caused. I'm also sad to say we'll have to start a search for a teacher as wonderful as you for the next school term. Thank goodness I can just promote Mike to the sheriff position so that is filled. I wish you and Edward all the happiness in the world!"

I gave him a small hug and then went back to helping the ladies in the quilting circle work on the quilt for Edward and me. I was glad I was given the opportunity to work on it. Gran and Mom were assisting with it as well.

Gran had sent word back to Chicago to ship some of her things that she would need here in Nevada and they arrived by crate, along with some other items for my trousseau. I didn't dare ask what they were. I'd seen Gran and Mom admiring some filmy lacy negligee that I was to wear on my wedding night and I blushed at the thought.

The night before our wedding, Edward sat with me on the porch of the boarding house after we had dinner with both our families. Gran was inside speaking with Rachel and helping her prepare tomorrow's menu.

Edward's hand grasped mine as he said, "Tomorrow, love, I finally get to kiss you. Do you know how long I've waited to taste those lips of yours?"

"No," I teased, "do tell."

"I believe it's been since some pretty young thing fell out of a stagecoach on the main street of this fine town right into my arms," he replied.

"Oh, you!" I admonished with a laugh and squeezed his hand.

He pulled me up into a hug and confessed he'd rented a honeymoon suite at the International Hotel after our wedding reception. I gasped at the expense, but he said it didn't matter. I told him; once again, he was incorrigible. He just grinned.

As I went to bed that night after packing up all my worldly goods, I could barely stop humming to myself, smiling, and thinking, "I'm getting married in the morning!"