Chapter 18 - Who Put The Fun In Funeral?
I do not own Twilight or any of its characters, Stephanie Meyer does. Ruby comes from my imagination.
The title of this chapter comes from a shirt I saw someone wear that I passed on the street, ‘I put the FUN in FUNeral’. It was so odd that it stood with me and I remembered it while writing this chapter.
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“Live life so completely that when Death comes to you like a thief in the night, there will be nothing left for him to steal”
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Margaret was laid to rest next to her husband on a bright, breezy July morning. The kind of morning that most people spent playing at the beach, having a BBQ in the backyard or sitting on their front porch with friends not burying your grandparent, which was exactly what Ruby was doing.
Despite it being a funeral, small and private, it was not a somber affair. It was enlightening and spiritual, happy even. Ruby was surrounded by people who she now considered her family, people who showed up to lend her support and love.
Jacob was standing next to her, holding her hand, dressed in blue jeans and a white button up shirt.
The pack, and the people who loved them, were all in attendance, along with one small addition: Margaret Samantha Uley. Emily had asked Ruby for permission to use the name right after she had given birth, saying it would be an honor for her daughter to be named after a woman who had such a wonderful outlook on life. Ruby agreed, already calling the child Maggie.
Ruby gazed at the little bundle in Emily’s arms. Tan skin, full head of jet-black hair, and big dark eyes. She was so tiny, only two days old yet little Maggie managed to do something no one else could ever dream of doing. She ended a feud between two beings that had lasted for generations. Because of her, the treaty line was a thing of the past.
The Cullen family (now actually friendly with the pack and with little to no hostility, depending on the member) came, cleverly using colorful umbrellas to shelter their skin from the sun. Anyone looking would think it would be for the shade, not to prevent their skin from glittering.
Bella and a newly-in-on-the-big-secret Charlie came also.
It was funny how no one expected a small town sheriff to figure out the big mystery, but small town or not he was trained in paying close attention, spotting a lie and putting all the evidence together to get the big picture. That was exactly what he did.
Apparently, Billy had told Charlie an entirely different reason for Charlie babysitting him (Billy blames the painkillers he was on). Charlie informed him the stories did not add up and for that matter, many things did not add up about things that concerned his daughter. He demanded to know the truth. After trying uselessly to tell him nothing was up, Billy finally told his best friend everything.
Charlie was understandably shocked and angered and worried about Bella, but Billy, thinking quick, milked his bad heart and managed to calm Charlie some.
Charlie now stood next to his daughter, Edward on her other side and although he is steadily moving towards acceptance of the new world he discovered, he kept shooting Edward looks that screamed ‘I don’t care if you are a vampire, you hurt my daughter and I’ll find a way to hurt you.”
Ruby was touched that Billy, looking a little pale but mostly back to his old self, accepted to give the eulogy when she asked. Ruby could not bring herself to do it. As she looked around she was glad that they honored Margaret’s wishes and came dressed in anything but black; pastel dresses for the women and colorful button ups paired with light jeans or linen pants for the men. Ruby had put on an emerald green sundress, her grandmother’s favorite color.
“We are here today,” Billy began, “not to mourn but to celebrate the remarkable life of a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a friend. Margaret or Peg, as I knew her, Taylor was a person who truly knew how to live.”
Jacob reached over and took Ruby’s hand into his much larger one, warming her with his touch. She smiled up at him, grateful for his support.
“Peg said what she felt and did what she pleased. She’d made me blush with her frank observations of certain body parts of mine.” Ruby laughed aloud and others joined her. “She awed me with stories and pictures of her skydiving and riding motorcycles. And if you ever wondered where she got that scar above her eye from, it was from the time she started a bar room brawl in New York.” This caused more laughter from the group. “Don’t worry, she assured me she won and cleaned a few clocks in the process.
“She told me once that she cared for a few men but truly loved only one. Margaret said that Thomas not only completed her but he brought out the best in her and accepted her fully, flaws and all and eventually they became a unit. One not being able to fully function without the other.”
Ruby thought of her grandmother and grandfather together and remembered that even at a young age she could recognize the deep true love between them and she had hoped that one day she would be blessed enough to have what they had. Looking up at Jacob, she knew she got her wish.
“Margaret is probably looking down on us now, impressed and bragging to all that now have the pleasure of her company, that she has both vampires and werewolves at her funeral.”
“What?” Charlie exclaimed and everyone turned to look at him. “Ruby- Margaret-” Ruby stared wide eyed in amused shock, never seeing Charlie so flabbergasted before. “Ruby you know?” She nodded. “Did everyone know but me?”
Ruby scratched the back of her neck, smiled and shrugged apologetically. “I know how you feel. I just found out a while ago myself. And I don’t want to shock you but I also want to be honest with you, umm, I’m a witch. Like I-have-powers kind of a witch.”
All was quiet, waiting for Charlie’s reaction. He was stunned to silence. He had thought Ruby was a little eccentric but sweet and respectful; the picture of a happy normal young lady. Nodding his head, he seemed to be snapped out of it and told her, “Of course you are,” before looking ahead again, feeling a headache coming.
Billy resumed the eulogy but his words became white noise in the background as she looked up at Jacob and saw his amused smile directed at Charlie. There was something about his smile that has and always will make her feel giddy. She remembered the promise she made to him just before she passed that day.
“Jacob,” she whispered. He turned his head to look at her. “Let’s get married.”
“What do you think that ring on your finger is for?” he whispered back.
“No.” She shook her head softly. “I mean today. Now.”
“You’ve finally gone insane?” he joked.
“No. But like my grandmother used to say, ‘Life goes on, best to go on and live it’. I think she would be happy that I’m living my life, plus everyone is already here and they’re already dressed…” She raised her eyebrows and waited.
“You’re serious, aren’t you?” He looked anxious, practically vibrating with happiness, as he searched her eyes begging it not to be a joke.
“Of course.” She smiled brightly up at him. “So is this happening or not?” she raised one eyebrow as she continued to smile at him. He nodded silently. “Good.”
Billy wrapped up his eulogy, saying how he would miss his dear, feisty, kind hearted friend but that he won’t be sad, because she was finally home with Rebecca, Carlos and her Thomas.
Ruby squatted low to the ground and gently touched the tip of her finger to the dirt. Everyone watched, transfixed, as the tiny soil particles started to shift. A tiny green stem emerged, growing and growing until the tip of it burst open and a white bell shaped flower appeared. Ruby grabbed hold of it, snapped it away and walked over to her grandmother’s coffin, now laying in its final resting place and tossed it down. Ruby’s botany class in high school had given a fun assignment as their first of finding the meaning of as many flowers and plants as they could. She remembered the white bell flower. It meant gratitude.
She took a moment and said goodbye to her last living relative, to someone that she would have liked even if she were not family. She sighed and made her grandmother a silent vow to live every moment of her life to the fullest, to appreciate even the smallest of miracles, then turned and walked away.
“Hey,” Ruby called out to everyone, “Is anyone doing anything now?”
Everyone shook their heads, except Bella. “I’m supposed to hang out with my friend Angela. Catch a movie.”
“Would she be willing to change the plan? Come here instead?”
“Why? What’s up?”
“I kind of just decided to get married.”
“What?” a few people exclaimed.
“I was standing here thinking how my grandmother always did what she wanted, when she wanted and I want to marry Jacob and I think if she could speak to me now, she’d encourage it. She’d be happy.”
Alice stepped forward practically vibrating as she bounced gently on her toes. “Are you really having a wedding? Today?”
“Yeah.”
“Oh can I plan it. Please? Please? Please?”
“Umm. Ok, you can help.” Alice squealed in delight. “Why do I feel like I just made a deal with the devil?” Ruby whispered to Jacob.
“Because you did,” Bella muttered, shaking her head laughing.
“Tell me what kind of wedding you would like and I’ll make it happen.” Alice clapped her hands together.
“What do you mean make it happen?” Ruby asked.
“Exactly what it means. We have a lot of funds; we can make things happen in a short amount of time.”
“It wouldn’t be right to take your money,” Jacob said.
“Yes it would,” Esme interjected.
“Whether you accept it or not, wolf boy, you and Ruby are family now.” Alice smiled wide. “In fact, you all are. Weird isn’t it?”
Ruby laughed and was surprised when Emily joined her.
“Fine,” Ruby gave in. “But we do this my way. Deal?”
Alice pouted but gave in. “Deal, as long as I can still be the wedding planner.” She placed her palm up and pretended to write on it as she asked, “So, tell me what you want for your wedding.”
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Jacob looked around, in complete awe of how the little ruthless pixie managed to pull off a wedding in a few hours. She missed her calling as a drill sergeant he chuckled to himself.
He was facing his family and new friends on the sands of First Beach, standing under a white gazebo liberated from Ruby’s backyard. It once was used to shelter Margaret from the elements when she had her morning tea. The guest sat on chairs from Emily’s, Billy’s and Ruby’s kitchens along with some folding chairs Angela brought over from her backyard; a hodgepodge of pale yellow, blue gingham cushions, chipped green along with silver and white that worked with Ruby’s eclectic taste.
Billy was in place under the gazebo, wearing the same suit he wore when Jacob graduated High School, ready to marry his son to the bride of his dreams. He had to hold back his tears when Ruby had skipped over to him and said, “If you’re feeling up to it, I would really love it if you would be the one to marry me to your son.” She had looked hopeful and she beamed and hugged him when he agreed.
Billy was amazed at how quick time passes. His daughters were grown and gone; Rebecca was married and enjoying weather where you actually got to see the sun and Rachel was a college graduate ready to take on the world. He was sad that they had no intention of coming home but he wouldn’t let it bother him today. His only sadness now was that Sarah could not be here with him, watching as their son stood proud in beige pants and short sleeved white shirt waiting for his soon-to-be wife, Quil and Embry standing up for him along with Emmett, a vampire sure, but one who helped Ruby in the fight.
Suddenly the soothing voice of Israel Kamakawiao’ole coming from an MP3 player surrounded the guest as he sang ‘Somewhere over the Rainbow’. Everyone directed their attention to the white tent that was constructed to hide the wedding party. Alice came skipping out in a stunning tiered halter dress, the darkest shade of crimson. Leah followed in a fierce fire-engine red, one shoulder dress with a pleated skirt. Bella brought up the rear of the wedding party procession in a blood red strapless gown with a full skirt. All three girls were barefoot, their dresses ending above the knee and accompanied by a small bouquet of white Calla Lilies.
Claire came out looking adorable in a red smock dress, tossing red rose petals as she hopped down the aisle like a bunny, resulting in a few laughs.
Jacob held his breath as Ruby emerged. She wore a simple slip dress made of white taffeta. The hem of her dress dragged behind her as she walked, her bare feet peeking out with ever step letting everyone get a good look at her bright red toenails. Her hair was loose, dancing in the slight breeze, one side pushed back by the Razzle Dazzle Asiatic lily she tucked behind her ear. A silver necklace hung low around her neck, a crescent moon cradling a star pendant hanging off it in memory of her parents, a bouquet of red Gerbera daisies in her hand.
When her eyes found Jacob, she smiled wide and bit her lips, blood red from the lipstick Alice insisted she wear. Ruby had to stop herself from running down the aisle. She was so excited to be marrying her Jacob.
“Hey,” she said once she stood in front of him.
“You look amazing,” Jacob said unable to take his eyes off her.
“You look beautiful,” she responded.
“Everyone, if I can have your attention,” Billy spoke up. “We are gathered here today to witness the joining of these two souls…”
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Everyone cheered as Jacob kissed Ruby, his wife, their hands still bound by a centuries old length of rope; a Wiccan tradition. Billy cleared his throat loudly when the kiss went on for too long.
“Sorry,” Ruby blushed.
“We’re newlyweds, what do you expect?” Jacob joked.
Billy pulled him in for a hug, telling him how proud he was of the man he became. He hugged Ruby, telling her how honored he was to have her as part of his family. “Now, let this sentimental old goat have a drink before I embarrass myself and cry.”
“Ok,” Alice shouted, “Can everyone grab their chairs and follow Esme to the reception area. You guys,” she directed towards the newly married couple, “Wait five minutes then head in that direction.” Then she disappeared in the direction of the rest.
“I can’t believe we did it. We got married,” Ruby said in awe. “I wasn’t sure we could get it done in time.”
“That pixie may be pushy but you got to admit, she gets things done.”
“I know. She was giving out commands like nobody’s business. She left me at my house earlier and left with Emily, Bella and Leah and came back three hours later with their bridesmaid dresses and my gown-”
“Which I love by the way.”
“You do? Thanks.”
“You look stunning.” He brought his hands to her waist and nuzzled her neck. Her heart skipped a beat and she turned her face away to allow him more room. She wasn’t sure if it was because it was Jacob, or because maybe she was sensitive (quite possibly it was both) but whenever he nuzzled and kissed her neck, her knees became week, sometimes they even buckle under her which was exactly why he always held her waist whenever he did it.
She was breathing heavy and actually whimpered when Jacob pulled away. “It’s been five minutes.” He kissed her and she returned it before they pulled apart and followed the footprints in the sand to their reception. It was dark out, past dusk as the sun set during their ceremony, but when they had walked a few yards, they were stunned when they were suddenly greeted by light.
Thousands of tiny twinkling white lights seemed to float above their heads, as if the stars themselves came down to celebrate their union. With the lights now on, Ruby was able to take in her reception party. Several small tables of about the same height were placed end to end, the chairs from the ceremony placed neatly in front of each mismatched place setting. Nearby to the dining area was a serving table; an assortment of different color and sized bowls containing food made by Emily, Kim and Esme placed on top. A grill was next to that table and Sam was already poking at and flipping the sizzling meat. Ruby saw Jared, Paul, Emmett and Jasper moving the tent and gazebo over from the ceremony site.
Alice came skipping forward. “Do you like it?”
“Like it? Alice, I love it. It’s perfect. Absolutely perfect.” She could not explain how grateful she was for all of it. It was exactly what she wanted; a small, cozy outdoor barbeque with her family and friends.
In a corner by itself was a small rounded table that she recognized as Jacob’s kitchen table and on it stacked beautifully in a silver tower were a bunch of white frosted cupcakes with a red sugar flower on each. It was like art in cupcake form. She saw on the utmost cupcake two figures. Walking closer to see what they were, she stopped and laughed out loud, holding her stomach as tears leaked out of her eyes.
“What’s so funny?” Jacob asked, coming to stand by her side.
“Look,” she pointed still laughing to the top of the cupcake tower where instead of a miniature bride and groom, there was a toy witch, complete with green skin, warts and pointed hat, and a toy dog, a spiked collar around its neck and a bone in its mouth.
“Let me guess,” Jacob chuckled, finding the humor in it, “Rosalie?” he asked Alice.
“Unfortunately I left her in charge of the cake. She came back with this beauty but insisted those little guys adorned the cake.”
“Gods help me, but I kind of like it.” Ruby laughed.
“Then we’ll keep it. I badgered everyone for all of their holiday lights. I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to do it, until Angela came to the rescue.” Alice put her arm around Angela giving her a little squeeze.
“It’s no problem,” Angela spoke softly. “My parents try to outdo the whole neighborhood when they do their holiday decorating, so I have a lot of lights. Congratulations,” she smiled at the happy couple, “And thank you for inviting me.”
“Thanks for coming and for helping so much.”
“I was glad to help. I love that you just spontaneously decided to have a wedding. It’s the coolest thing I ever heard. You look beautiful and your flowers are lovely.” She pointed to her bouquet and to her hair.
“Thank you. I made them myself… from scratch.” Alice giggled and Jacob smirked. Angela looked confused but was too polite to say anything.
Ruby saw Embry come from behind Angela. “Congratulations you two.” He slapped Jacob on the back and hugged Ruby.
“Embry, this is Angela. From what I hear, she’s responsible for the lights.”
Embry looked up and all time stood still for him.
“Nice to meet you.” Angela extended her hand but Embry stood motionless staring at her.
“Embry?” Jacob called out.
“Oh. I’ve seen this face before,” Ruby said slowly, realization dawning on her. “That’s the same look you had the day we met.” Ruby pointed to Jacob, a smirk on her face.
“Are you saying he just…” Jacob and Alice said together.
Ruby nodded slowly, “Yup.”
“Sam.” Jacob yelled out as Ruby turned to Angela.
“Excuse Embry,” she said walking Angela away. “I don’t think he knew what to do because he likes you.”
“You think he likes me?”
“You sound like you’re open to the idea of him liking you.”
“He’s a little weird but he is cute.”
“Honey, weird doesn’t even begin to cover it when it comes to this family.”
Later that night, the famous Forks weather decided to crash the party. The rain started to fall suddenly and everyone made a dash for under the cover of the tent and gazebo; everyone except for Ruby. She looked up and smiled, letting the rain soak through her hair and dress. Raining on your wedding day was a sign the Goddess blessed your union.
Her grandmother had loved the rain, saying it was nature’s way of giving life and washing away the old to make room for the new. She did not know how she knew it – rain fell all the time in Forks – but she knew this sudden rainfall had a tiny little pistol of a witch responsible for it.
Jacob watched from beneath the tent as she threw her hands out wide as she spun in a circle laughing, her dress dripping wet and clinging to her body. After a moment, Claire joined her and they began to dance to the music still playing. Kim looked at Jared, shrugged her shoulders, kicked off her shoes and the two joined the girls in the rain. More and more couples joined them in the rain. Seth had dragged a still ogling Embry out into the rain and Quil ran out to dance with Claire.
Ruby ran to Leah, who stood under the tent with her arms crossed in front of her.
“Come on,” Ruby held out her hand and water dripped off it.
“No way.”
“You know you want to. You just don’t want people to think you can actually let loose and have fun.” Leah gave no reply. “Fine. Either you come and dance in the rain or I’ll tell the Cullen family that you still sleep with a teddy bear.”
Leah looked around quickly checking if any of the vampires heard her. “You sleep with one too.”
Ruby smiled and wiped water off her face. “Yeah, but it’s expected from me.”
“You fight dirty…” Leah uncrossed her arms then smiled, “That’s why I like you. Oh, what the heck.” Then she ran out into the rain.
“Excuse me husband, you are needed on the dance floor.” She beckoned him with a finger and he followed, leaving Charlie and Billy, who was holding little Margaret under the tent, and walked out into the rain where everyone was dancing.
Jacob watched as she tossed her head from side to side, her hair whipping around. He was amazed she managed to get everyone out into the rain. Most girls would have cried, thrown a fit or at the very least pouted if it rained on their wedding, but not Ruby. His wife – he loved saying that word – was an amazing person.
Jacob held Ruby close and kissed her deeply.
“I love you Mrs. Black.”
“I love you too, Mr. Black.” Then she pouted. “It doesn’t sound the same when I say it, not as significant, because you were always Mr. Black and it’s not like-” Jacob descended on her again, kissing her lips, knowing that if not she would have rambled on until they were both confused. Ruby let him.
“This family may be weird,” they heard Angela laugh, “But they do know how to throw a party.”
The title of this chapter comes from a shirt I saw someone wear that I passed on the street, ‘I put the FUN in FUNeral’. It was so odd that it stood with me and I remembered it while writing this chapter.
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“Live life so completely that when Death comes to you like a thief in the night, there will be nothing left for him to steal”
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Margaret was laid to rest next to her husband on a bright, breezy July morning. The kind of morning that most people spent playing at the beach, having a BBQ in the backyard or sitting on their front porch with friends not burying your grandparent, which was exactly what Ruby was doing.
Despite it being a funeral, small and private, it was not a somber affair. It was enlightening and spiritual, happy even. Ruby was surrounded by people who she now considered her family, people who showed up to lend her support and love.
Jacob was standing next to her, holding her hand, dressed in blue jeans and a white button up shirt.
The pack, and the people who loved them, were all in attendance, along with one small addition: Margaret Samantha Uley. Emily had asked Ruby for permission to use the name right after she had given birth, saying it would be an honor for her daughter to be named after a woman who had such a wonderful outlook on life. Ruby agreed, already calling the child Maggie.
Ruby gazed at the little bundle in Emily’s arms. Tan skin, full head of jet-black hair, and big dark eyes. She was so tiny, only two days old yet little Maggie managed to do something no one else could ever dream of doing. She ended a feud between two beings that had lasted for generations. Because of her, the treaty line was a thing of the past.
The Cullen family (now actually friendly with the pack and with little to no hostility, depending on the member) came, cleverly using colorful umbrellas to shelter their skin from the sun. Anyone looking would think it would be for the shade, not to prevent their skin from glittering.
Bella and a newly-in-on-the-big-secret Charlie came also.
It was funny how no one expected a small town sheriff to figure out the big mystery, but small town or not he was trained in paying close attention, spotting a lie and putting all the evidence together to get the big picture. That was exactly what he did.
Apparently, Billy had told Charlie an entirely different reason for Charlie babysitting him (Billy blames the painkillers he was on). Charlie informed him the stories did not add up and for that matter, many things did not add up about things that concerned his daughter. He demanded to know the truth. After trying uselessly to tell him nothing was up, Billy finally told his best friend everything.
Charlie was understandably shocked and angered and worried about Bella, but Billy, thinking quick, milked his bad heart and managed to calm Charlie some.
Charlie now stood next to his daughter, Edward on her other side and although he is steadily moving towards acceptance of the new world he discovered, he kept shooting Edward looks that screamed ‘I don’t care if you are a vampire, you hurt my daughter and I’ll find a way to hurt you.”
Ruby was touched that Billy, looking a little pale but mostly back to his old self, accepted to give the eulogy when she asked. Ruby could not bring herself to do it. As she looked around she was glad that they honored Margaret’s wishes and came dressed in anything but black; pastel dresses for the women and colorful button ups paired with light jeans or linen pants for the men. Ruby had put on an emerald green sundress, her grandmother’s favorite color.
“We are here today,” Billy began, “not to mourn but to celebrate the remarkable life of a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a friend. Margaret or Peg, as I knew her, Taylor was a person who truly knew how to live.”
Jacob reached over and took Ruby’s hand into his much larger one, warming her with his touch. She smiled up at him, grateful for his support.
“Peg said what she felt and did what she pleased. She’d made me blush with her frank observations of certain body parts of mine.” Ruby laughed aloud and others joined her. “She awed me with stories and pictures of her skydiving and riding motorcycles. And if you ever wondered where she got that scar above her eye from, it was from the time she started a bar room brawl in New York.” This caused more laughter from the group. “Don’t worry, she assured me she won and cleaned a few clocks in the process.
“She told me once that she cared for a few men but truly loved only one. Margaret said that Thomas not only completed her but he brought out the best in her and accepted her fully, flaws and all and eventually they became a unit. One not being able to fully function without the other.”
Ruby thought of her grandmother and grandfather together and remembered that even at a young age she could recognize the deep true love between them and she had hoped that one day she would be blessed enough to have what they had. Looking up at Jacob, she knew she got her wish.
“Margaret is probably looking down on us now, impressed and bragging to all that now have the pleasure of her company, that she has both vampires and werewolves at her funeral.”
“What?” Charlie exclaimed and everyone turned to look at him. “Ruby- Margaret-” Ruby stared wide eyed in amused shock, never seeing Charlie so flabbergasted before. “Ruby you know?” She nodded. “Did everyone know but me?”
Ruby scratched the back of her neck, smiled and shrugged apologetically. “I know how you feel. I just found out a while ago myself. And I don’t want to shock you but I also want to be honest with you, umm, I’m a witch. Like I-have-powers kind of a witch.”
All was quiet, waiting for Charlie’s reaction. He was stunned to silence. He had thought Ruby was a little eccentric but sweet and respectful; the picture of a happy normal young lady. Nodding his head, he seemed to be snapped out of it and told her, “Of course you are,” before looking ahead again, feeling a headache coming.
Billy resumed the eulogy but his words became white noise in the background as she looked up at Jacob and saw his amused smile directed at Charlie. There was something about his smile that has and always will make her feel giddy. She remembered the promise she made to him just before she passed that day.
“Jacob,” she whispered. He turned his head to look at her. “Let’s get married.”
“What do you think that ring on your finger is for?” he whispered back.
“No.” She shook her head softly. “I mean today. Now.”
“You’ve finally gone insane?” he joked.
“No. But like my grandmother used to say, ‘Life goes on, best to go on and live it’. I think she would be happy that I’m living my life, plus everyone is already here and they’re already dressed…” She raised her eyebrows and waited.
“You’re serious, aren’t you?” He looked anxious, practically vibrating with happiness, as he searched her eyes begging it not to be a joke.
“Of course.” She smiled brightly up at him. “So is this happening or not?” she raised one eyebrow as she continued to smile at him. He nodded silently. “Good.”
Billy wrapped up his eulogy, saying how he would miss his dear, feisty, kind hearted friend but that he won’t be sad, because she was finally home with Rebecca, Carlos and her Thomas.
Ruby squatted low to the ground and gently touched the tip of her finger to the dirt. Everyone watched, transfixed, as the tiny soil particles started to shift. A tiny green stem emerged, growing and growing until the tip of it burst open and a white bell shaped flower appeared. Ruby grabbed hold of it, snapped it away and walked over to her grandmother’s coffin, now laying in its final resting place and tossed it down. Ruby’s botany class in high school had given a fun assignment as their first of finding the meaning of as many flowers and plants as they could. She remembered the white bell flower. It meant gratitude.
She took a moment and said goodbye to her last living relative, to someone that she would have liked even if she were not family. She sighed and made her grandmother a silent vow to live every moment of her life to the fullest, to appreciate even the smallest of miracles, then turned and walked away.
“Hey,” Ruby called out to everyone, “Is anyone doing anything now?”
Everyone shook their heads, except Bella. “I’m supposed to hang out with my friend Angela. Catch a movie.”
“Would she be willing to change the plan? Come here instead?”
“Why? What’s up?”
“I kind of just decided to get married.”
“What?” a few people exclaimed.
“I was standing here thinking how my grandmother always did what she wanted, when she wanted and I want to marry Jacob and I think if she could speak to me now, she’d encourage it. She’d be happy.”
Alice stepped forward practically vibrating as she bounced gently on her toes. “Are you really having a wedding? Today?”
“Yeah.”
“Oh can I plan it. Please? Please? Please?”
“Umm. Ok, you can help.” Alice squealed in delight. “Why do I feel like I just made a deal with the devil?” Ruby whispered to Jacob.
“Because you did,” Bella muttered, shaking her head laughing.
“Tell me what kind of wedding you would like and I’ll make it happen.” Alice clapped her hands together.
“What do you mean make it happen?” Ruby asked.
“Exactly what it means. We have a lot of funds; we can make things happen in a short amount of time.”
“It wouldn’t be right to take your money,” Jacob said.
“Yes it would,” Esme interjected.
“Whether you accept it or not, wolf boy, you and Ruby are family now.” Alice smiled wide. “In fact, you all are. Weird isn’t it?”
Ruby laughed and was surprised when Emily joined her.
“Fine,” Ruby gave in. “But we do this my way. Deal?”
Alice pouted but gave in. “Deal, as long as I can still be the wedding planner.” She placed her palm up and pretended to write on it as she asked, “So, tell me what you want for your wedding.”
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Jacob looked around, in complete awe of how the little ruthless pixie managed to pull off a wedding in a few hours. She missed her calling as a drill sergeant he chuckled to himself.
He was facing his family and new friends on the sands of First Beach, standing under a white gazebo liberated from Ruby’s backyard. It once was used to shelter Margaret from the elements when she had her morning tea. The guest sat on chairs from Emily’s, Billy’s and Ruby’s kitchens along with some folding chairs Angela brought over from her backyard; a hodgepodge of pale yellow, blue gingham cushions, chipped green along with silver and white that worked with Ruby’s eclectic taste.
Billy was in place under the gazebo, wearing the same suit he wore when Jacob graduated High School, ready to marry his son to the bride of his dreams. He had to hold back his tears when Ruby had skipped over to him and said, “If you’re feeling up to it, I would really love it if you would be the one to marry me to your son.” She had looked hopeful and she beamed and hugged him when he agreed.
Billy was amazed at how quick time passes. His daughters were grown and gone; Rebecca was married and enjoying weather where you actually got to see the sun and Rachel was a college graduate ready to take on the world. He was sad that they had no intention of coming home but he wouldn’t let it bother him today. His only sadness now was that Sarah could not be here with him, watching as their son stood proud in beige pants and short sleeved white shirt waiting for his soon-to-be wife, Quil and Embry standing up for him along with Emmett, a vampire sure, but one who helped Ruby in the fight.
Suddenly the soothing voice of Israel Kamakawiao’ole coming from an MP3 player surrounded the guest as he sang ‘Somewhere over the Rainbow’. Everyone directed their attention to the white tent that was constructed to hide the wedding party. Alice came skipping out in a stunning tiered halter dress, the darkest shade of crimson. Leah followed in a fierce fire-engine red, one shoulder dress with a pleated skirt. Bella brought up the rear of the wedding party procession in a blood red strapless gown with a full skirt. All three girls were barefoot, their dresses ending above the knee and accompanied by a small bouquet of white Calla Lilies.
Claire came out looking adorable in a red smock dress, tossing red rose petals as she hopped down the aisle like a bunny, resulting in a few laughs.
Jacob held his breath as Ruby emerged. She wore a simple slip dress made of white taffeta. The hem of her dress dragged behind her as she walked, her bare feet peeking out with ever step letting everyone get a good look at her bright red toenails. Her hair was loose, dancing in the slight breeze, one side pushed back by the Razzle Dazzle Asiatic lily she tucked behind her ear. A silver necklace hung low around her neck, a crescent moon cradling a star pendant hanging off it in memory of her parents, a bouquet of red Gerbera daisies in her hand.
When her eyes found Jacob, she smiled wide and bit her lips, blood red from the lipstick Alice insisted she wear. Ruby had to stop herself from running down the aisle. She was so excited to be marrying her Jacob.
“Hey,” she said once she stood in front of him.
“You look amazing,” Jacob said unable to take his eyes off her.
“You look beautiful,” she responded.
“Everyone, if I can have your attention,” Billy spoke up. “We are gathered here today to witness the joining of these two souls…”
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Everyone cheered as Jacob kissed Ruby, his wife, their hands still bound by a centuries old length of rope; a Wiccan tradition. Billy cleared his throat loudly when the kiss went on for too long.
“Sorry,” Ruby blushed.
“We’re newlyweds, what do you expect?” Jacob joked.
Billy pulled him in for a hug, telling him how proud he was of the man he became. He hugged Ruby, telling her how honored he was to have her as part of his family. “Now, let this sentimental old goat have a drink before I embarrass myself and cry.”
“Ok,” Alice shouted, “Can everyone grab their chairs and follow Esme to the reception area. You guys,” she directed towards the newly married couple, “Wait five minutes then head in that direction.” Then she disappeared in the direction of the rest.
“I can’t believe we did it. We got married,” Ruby said in awe. “I wasn’t sure we could get it done in time.”
“That pixie may be pushy but you got to admit, she gets things done.”
“I know. She was giving out commands like nobody’s business. She left me at my house earlier and left with Emily, Bella and Leah and came back three hours later with their bridesmaid dresses and my gown-”
“Which I love by the way.”
“You do? Thanks.”
“You look stunning.” He brought his hands to her waist and nuzzled her neck. Her heart skipped a beat and she turned her face away to allow him more room. She wasn’t sure if it was because it was Jacob, or because maybe she was sensitive (quite possibly it was both) but whenever he nuzzled and kissed her neck, her knees became week, sometimes they even buckle under her which was exactly why he always held her waist whenever he did it.
She was breathing heavy and actually whimpered when Jacob pulled away. “It’s been five minutes.” He kissed her and she returned it before they pulled apart and followed the footprints in the sand to their reception. It was dark out, past dusk as the sun set during their ceremony, but when they had walked a few yards, they were stunned when they were suddenly greeted by light.
Thousands of tiny twinkling white lights seemed to float above their heads, as if the stars themselves came down to celebrate their union. With the lights now on, Ruby was able to take in her reception party. Several small tables of about the same height were placed end to end, the chairs from the ceremony placed neatly in front of each mismatched place setting. Nearby to the dining area was a serving table; an assortment of different color and sized bowls containing food made by Emily, Kim and Esme placed on top. A grill was next to that table and Sam was already poking at and flipping the sizzling meat. Ruby saw Jared, Paul, Emmett and Jasper moving the tent and gazebo over from the ceremony site.
Alice came skipping forward. “Do you like it?”
“Like it? Alice, I love it. It’s perfect. Absolutely perfect.” She could not explain how grateful she was for all of it. It was exactly what she wanted; a small, cozy outdoor barbeque with her family and friends.
In a corner by itself was a small rounded table that she recognized as Jacob’s kitchen table and on it stacked beautifully in a silver tower were a bunch of white frosted cupcakes with a red sugar flower on each. It was like art in cupcake form. She saw on the utmost cupcake two figures. Walking closer to see what they were, she stopped and laughed out loud, holding her stomach as tears leaked out of her eyes.
“What’s so funny?” Jacob asked, coming to stand by her side.
“Look,” she pointed still laughing to the top of the cupcake tower where instead of a miniature bride and groom, there was a toy witch, complete with green skin, warts and pointed hat, and a toy dog, a spiked collar around its neck and a bone in its mouth.
“Let me guess,” Jacob chuckled, finding the humor in it, “Rosalie?” he asked Alice.
“Unfortunately I left her in charge of the cake. She came back with this beauty but insisted those little guys adorned the cake.”
“Gods help me, but I kind of like it.” Ruby laughed.
“Then we’ll keep it. I badgered everyone for all of their holiday lights. I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to do it, until Angela came to the rescue.” Alice put her arm around Angela giving her a little squeeze.
“It’s no problem,” Angela spoke softly. “My parents try to outdo the whole neighborhood when they do their holiday decorating, so I have a lot of lights. Congratulations,” she smiled at the happy couple, “And thank you for inviting me.”
“Thanks for coming and for helping so much.”
“I was glad to help. I love that you just spontaneously decided to have a wedding. It’s the coolest thing I ever heard. You look beautiful and your flowers are lovely.” She pointed to her bouquet and to her hair.
“Thank you. I made them myself… from scratch.” Alice giggled and Jacob smirked. Angela looked confused but was too polite to say anything.
Ruby saw Embry come from behind Angela. “Congratulations you two.” He slapped Jacob on the back and hugged Ruby.
“Embry, this is Angela. From what I hear, she’s responsible for the lights.”
Embry looked up and all time stood still for him.
“Nice to meet you.” Angela extended her hand but Embry stood motionless staring at her.
“Embry?” Jacob called out.
“Oh. I’ve seen this face before,” Ruby said slowly, realization dawning on her. “That’s the same look you had the day we met.” Ruby pointed to Jacob, a smirk on her face.
“Are you saying he just…” Jacob and Alice said together.
Ruby nodded slowly, “Yup.”
“Sam.” Jacob yelled out as Ruby turned to Angela.
“Excuse Embry,” she said walking Angela away. “I don’t think he knew what to do because he likes you.”
“You think he likes me?”
“You sound like you’re open to the idea of him liking you.”
“He’s a little weird but he is cute.”
“Honey, weird doesn’t even begin to cover it when it comes to this family.”
Later that night, the famous Forks weather decided to crash the party. The rain started to fall suddenly and everyone made a dash for under the cover of the tent and gazebo; everyone except for Ruby. She looked up and smiled, letting the rain soak through her hair and dress. Raining on your wedding day was a sign the Goddess blessed your union.
Her grandmother had loved the rain, saying it was nature’s way of giving life and washing away the old to make room for the new. She did not know how she knew it – rain fell all the time in Forks – but she knew this sudden rainfall had a tiny little pistol of a witch responsible for it.
Jacob watched from beneath the tent as she threw her hands out wide as she spun in a circle laughing, her dress dripping wet and clinging to her body. After a moment, Claire joined her and they began to dance to the music still playing. Kim looked at Jared, shrugged her shoulders, kicked off her shoes and the two joined the girls in the rain. More and more couples joined them in the rain. Seth had dragged a still ogling Embry out into the rain and Quil ran out to dance with Claire.
Ruby ran to Leah, who stood under the tent with her arms crossed in front of her.
“Come on,” Ruby held out her hand and water dripped off it.
“No way.”
“You know you want to. You just don’t want people to think you can actually let loose and have fun.” Leah gave no reply. “Fine. Either you come and dance in the rain or I’ll tell the Cullen family that you still sleep with a teddy bear.”
Leah looked around quickly checking if any of the vampires heard her. “You sleep with one too.”
Ruby smiled and wiped water off her face. “Yeah, but it’s expected from me.”
“You fight dirty…” Leah uncrossed her arms then smiled, “That’s why I like you. Oh, what the heck.” Then she ran out into the rain.
“Excuse me husband, you are needed on the dance floor.” She beckoned him with a finger and he followed, leaving Charlie and Billy, who was holding little Margaret under the tent, and walked out into the rain where everyone was dancing.
Jacob watched as she tossed her head from side to side, her hair whipping around. He was amazed she managed to get everyone out into the rain. Most girls would have cried, thrown a fit or at the very least pouted if it rained on their wedding, but not Ruby. His wife – he loved saying that word – was an amazing person.
Jacob held Ruby close and kissed her deeply.
“I love you Mrs. Black.”
“I love you too, Mr. Black.” Then she pouted. “It doesn’t sound the same when I say it, not as significant, because you were always Mr. Black and it’s not like-” Jacob descended on her again, kissing her lips, knowing that if not she would have rambled on until they were both confused. Ruby let him.
“This family may be weird,” they heard Angela laugh, “But they do know how to throw a party.”
