There was a slight breeze drifting through the open window, as I repositioned the antique end table for at least the tenth time that morning. Perhaps it was the awkward way it inched out from beside the bed, or the fact that this entire ordeal seemed too magnificent to comprehend. I just couldn't believe that this was all for me. That this place, this tropical paradise, was ours for the rest of eternity. A gift of the most endearing sentiment. From the moment I saw him flash that charming smile; I knew that he was once again going to place me in a state of bewilderment. Carlisle had always possessed a certain skill for romance, but this was above and beyond any woman's expectations.

I carefully sat down on the oversized bed, remembering our silent journey to the Island. There was never a need for words between us, but it took every ounce of my self control to reserve my line of questioning. The boat ride seemed to spin endlessly into the drifting sunset that surrounded us. He had planned this so carefully, and so methodically, that we arrived at the perfect moment; just as the sun blended into the horizon. The shades of orange, and pink, danced across the sky, as if they were performing just for the two of us. His eyes remained focused on the small dock that lingered just off shore, as he gently brought the boat to a halt. He squeezed my hand softly, placing a light kiss on my cheek, before cradling me in his arms. The tender whisper of his voice echoed through the palm trees that swayed effortlessly around us. Though we were alone on this radiant piece of heaven, I was sure that even the smallest creature recognized the significance of this gesture.

I lay back on the bed, and kicked off my shoes, as my mind drifted in another direction. Carlisle had been gone most of the morning, and although I was perfectly at ease in our newly acquired home, the longing I felt for him was becoming unbearable. Perhaps that was the reason for my compulsive rearranging. I'd spent the past four years of my life - since joining him in this world - hardly separated from him at all. Neither one of us enjoyed being apart from one another, unless it was truly unavoidable. So, as he kissed my forehead, and glided through the front door that morning, I couldn't help but feel a small sense of loss. The scent of him still swirled around me, clinging to my soul like the warm summer wind. It was foolish really, as this island - Carlisle had insisted on naming after myself - was too glorious to be denied. I knew how his mind yearned to explore the vast reaches of the dense tropical forest, the various warm springs, and of course the clear blue ocean that lapped against the sandy shoreline. I was simply awestruck at the beauty that surrounded us, but my overwhelming need for organization had kept me from joining him. Carlisle, being the perfect gentleman he is, had cordially granted my mind the creative space that it desired. There would be more than enough time to investigate the tranquil scenery that blossomed at every turn. After all, we had nothing but an eternity ahead of us. And this place, this gift to me, was truly ours to share until time itself ceased to exist.

Scattered rays of light bounced through the bedroom window, beckoning me towards them. In the normal situation, my instincts shied away from the powerful beams that showed us for what we truly were. But there was nothing to be weary of here in this utopia. It was just us, always just us. I obliged my inner craving, and slowly leaned across the threshold of the large windowsill. It was then that I saw him, perched just below the overhang that enveloped the downstairs entry way. He had never left, never moved from the old wooden bench amongst the blooms of exotic flowers. His scent was even stronger now that I understood why his presence never left me.

I crept further into the sunlight, sending prisms of white light bouncing off the adjacent walls; heightened slightly by the windows reflection. His eyes met mine within moments, as he pulled a large object from behind his back. As he moved, the sun danced with him, turning his usual porcelain skin into a stunning array of shimmering diamonds. The sheer sight of him took my breath away, and in exchange etched a permanent smile upon my face. My smile was returned with one of equal adoration, and love, as the object in his hands became clearer. I shook my head, and laughed. Always the romanticist, always desiring to capture what he believed to be the most flawless of moments.

He held the seemingly fragile camera gingerly between his glistening hands, and my smile turned into one of disbelief. For how could one like me be so deserving of this love, this place, this man? It took but an instant, before he was climbing the trellis, ascending swiftly up the vines that trickled across the exterior of our new home. A moment later, I was in his arms, exactly where I would remain forever. Perfectly at peace, and unconditionally in love.

www(dot)cullensonline(dot)com

Please be sure to stop by for our March Membership drive. For every new member this month we will be donating to the St. Jude Childrens Hospital.