Breathe In Union
by Laura Spudzmom
Chapter 17
Bella eyed Charlie warily as she sat down at the kitchen table after cleaning up from breakfast. Paul had left for the rez as soon as the sun was up, so it had just been the two of them this morning and Charlie had been quiet throughout. It hadn't been his usual comfortable silence either. She could tell he was just waiting for the right moment, and as he folded the paper and met her eyes, she knew the moment had arrived.
He took a breath and opened his mouth, then closed it again and looked away a moment. When he looked back, there was a determined gleam in his eyes. Bella took a sip of her coffee and waited patiently; unshaken.
He must have read her equal determination because he gave a small nod and started talking. "Bells, where exactly are you planning on staying when this move happens?"
She held his gaze as she answered. "I think we both know Dad. It's a bit ridiculous to tip-toe around it, but if you still need to hear the words, then I'll be staying with Paul in his room."
He sighed, sat back and took a drink from his own cup. "Too fast," he muttered, staring down into the pungent liquid before meeting her eyes again. "You're right. I'd suspected as much."
She smiled wanly, knowing this had to be hard for him. Still, she wanted this all talked out before they packed their stuff and hauled it to Lisa's house. She liked Lisa very much, but that didn't mean she was comfortable enough to work through conflict with her father in front of her; not yet anyway. "Go ahead Dad. I know there's more you want to say," she said as she idly spun her coffee cup.
He nodded and sat forward. "You're so young Bells…so is Paul for that matter and I hate to see you both make a mistake…" He trailed off as Bella's gaze snapped up from where she'd been studying the table.
"You mean like the one you and Renee made?"
His brows drew together as he looked down at the folded paper his fingers now tapped a short rhythm on. Bella regretted her words almost instantly. She knew, despite his relationship with Lisa and the many years that had passed, the subject was still a sore one for Charlie. "I'm sorry Dad. That was low."
He smirked humorlessly. "No, you're right Bells, but not in the way you think." He glanced up. "I do regret it; I regret it because of the pain kid. It was painful watching the woman I loved leave me, but what hurt worse was watching her take my only child and knowing I would never get to see you grow up. Knowing I would only get visits and tiny pieces of your life at best and I was right and here we are today, trying like hell to know each other through an impossible situation." He shook his head and took a drink from his cup before speaking quietly once again. "And now, I have to sit back and watch as you and Paul put yourselves in a situation with the same potential and it scares the hell out of me."
She bristled. "I'm not Renee," she protested and he lifted a hand.
"I never said you were. I know you and Paul are different people and I love both of you. I wasn't kidding when I said I love that kid Bells. He's like a son to me and he's been through more shit in his young life than anyone should ever have to. And now, he's tied to this place more firmly than I ever was, do you really understand that?"
Her eyes widened as she sat back, only now grasping where Charlie was going with this. "You're afraid I'll hurt him," she breathed in shock and dawning comprehension.
He furrowed his brow and tapped the paper for a few beats before meeting her surprised gaze as she stared at him. "I'm afraid you'll hurt each other," he quickly amended before continuing on. "But Bella, if something were to happen and you ever walked out, I can almost guarantee you'd break him for good. I've seen the way he is with you and with as well as I know him, I don't think he'd ever recover. He's strong Bells and smart and determined, but love and relationships? Those are his achilles heel, and with how he feels for you…you are probably the only person on earth who could destroy him. I just want you to realize that; to realize that this isn't just a case of playing house between two teens who are rushing to grow up. Please be careful and certain. That's all I'm asking."
She studied her cup and nodded slowly. "I understand Dad," she quietly affirmed before looking at him steadily. "But you need to know I love him more than my own life. I'm in this for the long haul. Again, I'm not Renee. I've never been fickle or flighty. Paul is the only one for me and I won't fail him."
She stood and hugged him and he tensed for a second before returning it. When she pulled away and took her seat, she smiled. "I'm glad you love him Dad and I'm happy you've been there for him. I'm relieved by this talk though. Frankly, I'd been worried. I thought for sure it would have been about last night."
Charlie grunted as he got up to refill his cup from the steaming pot. He turned and leaned against the counter as he blew on the contents and took a sip. He smirked. "I figured I made my point well enough last night."
She narrowed her eyes. "You did, trust me. He couldn't seem to get back to the couch fast enough."
Charlie chuckled. "Good," was all he said and Bella rolled her eyes as she rose from her seat and washed out her cup.
"I'm gonna head up stairs and pack what little I've managed to actually unpack since I've been here. Paul should be back with his truck in just a bit. Do you need any help with your stuff?"
He waved her off. "Nah, it's mostly just clothes I'm taking. I'll wait until everything settles down to come back and go through everything. For now, I'm just going to set up the house for being empty for a while and leave it at that."
She'd just re-taped the last box when the sound of a diesel truck pulling up caught her attention. Moments later, she heard the front door open and Paul's voice calling out, "Hello? B? Charlie? Is it safe to come in?"
She opened her bedroom door and yelled to him, "Up here! Come on up!" She got a shock though when he walked in a moment later. He wasn't alone and he smirked and flopped onto her bed as she darted past him to grab the other person in a crushing hug. "Rudy!" she shrieked as he laughed.
"Whoa, B! Slow your roll girl! It hasn't been that long."
She backed away and grinned at him. "What are you doing here? Not that I'm not glad to see you…"
He pulled out the desk chair and straddled it while resting his arms across the back. "I had to come solve the mystery surrounding my baby cousin since neither of you"—he glared between the two—"would tell me a damn thing."
Bella shot Paul a loaded glance and he sighed and sat up. "No, I haven't told him…"
Rudy now looked genuinely pissed. "No, the fucker hasn't but he will, even if I have to beat it outta him. I mean, not going to school?! That's fucked up and I mean to find out why."
Bella sat beside Paul and placed a hand on his back as he hung his head and nodded. "Now that you're here, I suppose I'll have to tell you, but you're not gonna believe it when I do." He looked at his cousin who was looking more concerned by the minute and smirked bitterly. "I hardly believe it myself." He hopped up from the bed. "It's gonna have to wait though. For now, we need to get Bella and Charlie moved so grab a box and we'll start loading."
Rudy got up and glanced at Bella who was tracing the pattern on her bedspread with a finger while avoiding looking at anyone. "Yeah, all right," he muttered. "But you're not gonna put me off forever."
"Nope," Paul agreed as he hefted a stack of boxes. "Not trying to. I just wanna get this done. I'll feel better once they're all moved in."
They got all of Bella's stuff loaded and started on Charlie's when Sam showed up to speak to Paul. They walked away toward the tree line and Rudy leaned against the side of the truck where Bella was standing. He nudged her shoulder. "That's one intense looking dude," he observed as Bella watched them.
She smirked and glanced up at Rudy. "Yeah, he is. No people skills what-so-ever but he gets a little better as you get to know him."
Rudy popped a piece of gum into his mouth and absently offered one to Bella. "He a friend of Paulie's? I don't remember him mentioning the dude."
She shook her head at the offered gum and he pocketed it. "No, not a friend really. As a matter of fact, he was the guy who showed up in AZ and took Paul."
"What?!" he hissed, a murderous look on his face as he pushed off the truck and took a step. Bella grabbed his arm and stepped in front of him.
"No D, wait. That's all been worked out and Sam's no threat to Paul." Rudy frowned down at her as she stared up at him. "Please? Just trust me? We'll explain everything later, I promise."
He sighed and sagged back against the truck. "This whole situation is fucked up B. My heart is hurting for Paul. I know he's not taking whatever this is well. It hangs over him like a cloud and the only time he's seemed even remotely like himself is around you." He looked down at her and the depth of emotion she saw there warmed her heart. His love for his cousin was obvious.
"I'm glad you're here D," she said as she leaned against the truck beside him. "How long you staying?"
He smiled brightly. "Welllll," he drawled. "I might have cashed out on everything in AZ, bought my own catering truck, hooked my car to the back and brought everything with me."
She turned to him with a grin. "No shit?! Does that mean you're here to stay?"
He shrugged and tried to look nonchalant despite the grin he was sporting. "Maybe…"
She narrowed her eyes and he caved. "Okay, yeah that was the plan."
She hugged him and he laughed as he returned it. "You're good for him, you know?" she asked as she let him go and stepped back.
He gave a noncommittal shrug. "I love the little fucker, always have. He's always felt like more of a brother to me than a cousin. I don't know why that is, but it's true."
She glanced askance and smirked. "Little?" she questioned dubiously and he chuckled.
"Yeah, that term doesn't apply these days does it?"
She gazed over at Paul who was busy gesturing with his hands as he spoke to Sam. "Not by any stretch of the imagination," she murmured and laughed when Rudy lightly shoved her.
"Shit B, not you too! I heard enough of that kinda shit from all the girls back in AZ, thanks very much."
Her mouth hung open and she stared at him with wide eyes. "There wasn't anything remotely sexual in what I just said," she defended herself.
"I was born B, but it wasn't yesterday…"
She grinned wickedly. "Fine, we'll change the subject. So, your living arrangements?"
He nodded, looking relieved. "I spoke to Aunt Lisa. I get the third bedroom until I get my catering business established here, then I guess I'll get my own place. It'll probably be in town though since I'm not exactly Quileute. Aunt Lisa said she'd help with that when the time comes since she's in the real estate business."
"So, you're so sure you're gonna like it here?" she asked as she eyed him speculatively.
He took a slow deep breath as he surveyed the trees. "You know," he said quietly as he gazed around, "I've always felt more at home here than I have in AZ. I don't know what it is about this place, but it just feels like I'm where I should be, like it's a part of me somehow." He looked down at her as she cocked a brow. "You asked," he said with a shrug and she nodded.
"I did," she said as she thought about his words. She could never remember feeling that way about this place until after meeting and falling in love with Paul, but now she knew without a doubt; this place was a part of her and always would be.
She looked up at Paul when he walked back over to them as Sam disappeared into the trees. "Everything okay?" she asked as he pulled her into his arms.
"Yeah, he just wanted to let me know there are a couple others he thinks are ready to…uh, join his group," he finished as he glanced at Rudy who rolled his eyes.
"What?" Rudy questioned. "He have a secret club or something? Don't worry, I'm not into cliques. I won't get jealous or catty," he said with a smirk while batting his lashes.
Bella laughed while Paul muttered, "Crazy fucker." He opened the passenger door for Bella and helped her in. "Come on Cuz, let's get going. We have a house to fill. Mom isn't gonna know what to do with herself with so many people around."
Rudy climbed in and shut the door as Paul started the truck. He looked worried. "She's not pissed is she Paulie? I mean, I kinda just showed up and sprang all this on her…"
Paul snorted. "No, she's not pissed. She loves you. If anything, she's almost giddy bro. She's always wanted a big family and just never had the chance with all the shit she went through with my old man, the bastard, may he burn in hell," he finished with vehemence.
Bella placed a hand on his thigh and he smiled at her as he pulled out onto the road. "I'm good shorty, don't worry," he said and placed his arm around her.
"Well, that's good to hear," Rudy cut in sounding relieved. "Sleeping in my car is a bitch."
Bella grinned. "When did you have to sleep in your car?"
"Well, on the way here, I just crashed at a rest-stop. Didn't wanna blow cash on a room, ya know. And then there were the many times Mom kicked me out for a night or two when she'd get pissed at me. Those were always fun."
"She did that?" Bella asked incredulously.
His brows drew together. "Yeah, on occasion when I got old enough where it wouldn't be considered abuse or neglect or whatever. I kind of preferred that though over having her pissed at me and not being able to get some distance."
Bella just stared, her mouth open and he continued. "I was never her favorite son. She never said anything, but I could tell, ya know? She always treated me differently than my siblings. My Dad did too." He shrugged and stared out the window as he went quiet.
Bella reached over and patted his hand before giving it a squeeze. "Well, you're here now and we're glad to have you. Leave the past in the past. We're the only family you need."
He smiled. "Damn B, you sure you don't have a sister or a close cousin available?"
"Nope," she answered with a smirk. "Unless Charlie or Renee neglected to mention something, I'm an only child of only children."
"Damn," he muttered.
She patted his hand again. "There's someone out there for you D, you just have to have faith and be patient."
"Yeah," Paul agreed with a wicked smirk. "Until then, the rez is full of hot girls…" he trailed off with a grunt as Bella elbowed him in the side sharply.
"Just because I give you a pass on your past exploits doesn't mean I wanna hear about it and Rudy doesn't need to be wasting his time on a bunch of skanks," she groused while rubbing her smarting elbow.
Paul eyed Rudy. "Sorry Cuz, I tried."
Rudy shrugged. "Nah, B's right. I need to concentrate on getting my business going. That'll keep me busy. I'm twenty-two. It's time I became responsible and shit."
"Dude!" Paul exclaimed as his brows inched up. "I agree you need to get your business going and all that, but you're only twenty-two! In your prime, man! Not exactly the time to retire little Rudy, know what I mean?"
Bella sat up straight and glared at Paul. "You talk like you're in 'retirement'. Regretting something, Paul?"
Rudy smirked and looked out the window as Paul's eyes widened and he grabbed Bella's hand. "Baby! No!" He kissed her hand as she stared at him flatly. "You're more than I could ever dream," he wheedled and leaned down to whisper in her ear as he kept his eyes on the road. "You fuckin' blow my mind every time B. You are the ultimate woman. My search is over. Nobody compares to you and I'd stay buried in you all the time if I could. Just fuckin' slide in and stay there…"
She laughed and shoved him. "You ass," she said with a mock glare as he dissolved into laughter.
"But I mean it baby!" he said with a cheeky grin while pulling off the road and into his driveway.
"Mmm hmm," she said as she rolled her eyes and nudged a laughing Rudy. "Let me outta this truck. I need some Lisa time. You guys are having too much fun at my expense." She hopped down and waved a hand without turning back. "Now get to work. I'll see you later."
"Yes Ma'am," they both intoned together just as the door closed behind her. She sighed with a grin and a shake of her head as she went to find Lisa.
The door closed and Rudy turned to Paul. "So, that guy, Sam…"
Paul sighed and leaned on the truck. "You'll meet him later. We've, well Bella and I, have been invited to his house for an informal dinner and you can come along if you want. He thinks it's time we got to know his group since it's…expanding."
"Uh huh," Rudy muttered. "This feels kinda weird for some reason." He glanced at Paul. "I mean, from what B says, you guys aren't exactly friends. He's the fucker that grabbed you in AZ for fuck's sake. Why would you want any more to do with the dude?"
Paul sighed and scratched at the back of his neck. "It's complicated." He looked over at Rudy who was staring expectantly. "Okay, you want the story now? I'll give you the short version, but you have to suspend disbelief and don't give me any "you can't be serious" bullshit. Everything I'm about to tell you is true, no fucking around. Got it?"
Rudy nodded slowly, a frown marring his brow. "Got it."
So Paul spent the next ten minutes telling Rudy the quick version of everything that had happened and why since he'd been taken from AZ. When he finished, his cousin was very quiet as he stared at his shoes. Finally, he broke the silence with a low whistle. "Fuuuuck," he muttered as he looked at Paul with wide eyes. "Suspend disbelief is right…" He shook his head. "I mean, I remember the legends from hearing them as a kid when I'd visit, but never did I imagine they were real… If you hadn't said what you did before telling me this, I would swear you were punking me." He locked his gaze with Paul's. "But you're not…I can tell by the look in your eyes, you're fuckin' serious."
"I told you that up front Rudy."
He nodded. "Yes, you did. And it explains so much. I just couldn't picture anything preventing you from school and baseball, but now? With this? Shit…" he muttered.
Paul nodded and pushed off the truck. "Yep, shit is right. Now let's get all this stuff in the house before Mom and Bella come looking for us. Charlie should be here soon with the last of his clothes and then it'll be time to head over to Sam's."
When they had all the stuff unloaded, they made their way into the kitchen where they could hear Lisa and Bella talking and laughing.
Paul walked up behind Bella as she chopped vegetables for dinner. "Be careful with that knife shorty," he said as he pulled her back against his body and kissed her neck. She dropped the knife on the cutting board and tilted her head with a smile. "Hi," she breathed as her eyes closed, just enjoying the feel of his lips on her skin.
Rudy sat beside Lisa at the small table. He was uncharacteristically quiet and Lisa noticed immediately. "You all right Rudy? You don't seem yourself."
Paul let go of Bella and grabbed two bottles of water from the fridge, one of which he tossed to Rudy. "He'll be fine Mom. He's just trying to grasp all I told him."
"Oh honey," she said with a frown. "You hit the poor kid with everything at once?"
Paul took a drink and shrugged as he leaned against the counter. "He wanted to know."
Lisa sighed and eyed her nephew as he toyed with the water. "Yes but…"
Paul cut her off. "Look Mom, there's just no way to ease someone into that kind of information."
She stared off for a beat then nodded. "You're right, there isn't." She looked back at Rudy. "You gonna be okay there kid?"
Rudy chuckled as he opened his water. "Yeah, I think so. I mean, I haven't really seen it with my own eyes yet. I'm sure when I do, it'll become all too real to me."
Paul scowled. "Well, no offense but I'm not a trained poodle, so you'll have to wait for a demonstration."
"Paul!" Lisa admonished. "I don't think Rudy was asking."
"Yeah, I know," he shrugged and downed more water. "I was just making it clear so there were no misunderstandings when he comes out of his stupor." He reached over for an olive and Bella slapped at his hand and missed. He grinned. "I'm too fast for you shorty," he said as he popped the olive into his mouth.
"There are other punishments available to me so don't push your luck," she grumbled while stifling a smile.
He looked smug. "You wouldn't. You can't resist me."
Lisa rolled her eyes and threw a towel at her son's head. "Bella might not be able to but now she has me to keep you in line so watch yourself son."
"But Mom! You're supposed to be on my side at all times! When did this happen?" He looked back and forth between the two smirking females.
Bella inclined her head to Lisa. "Thank you Lisa. The help is appreciated."
Lisa smiled wickedly. "Anytime, love."
Paul rolled his eyes. "Whatever," he said as he stood and tossed the bottle into the recycle bin. He turned back to Bella. "We need to head over to Sam's place. We're supposed to have dinner over there."
Her mouth dropped open. "Why didn't you tell me earlier?"
He pressed his lips together as his brows rose. "Uh, I was busy?"
She gave him a flat look and he grinned sheepishly. "I'm telling you now!" he defended himself as he looked at the clock. "You still have like twenty minutes before we have to be there…"
She cut him off with a growl and turned to Lisa. "It seems I have to go get ready. I'll talk to you later? Tell Charlie I love him and I'll see him later tonight, hopefully."
"Will do sweetie," she said as she got up to take over finishing dinner. She glanced at Paul. "You know, you need to let her know ahead of time for things like this."
"Why?" he asked as he snatched another olive. "She already looks great, it's informal so she doesn't even need to change…"
"Just trust me son." Lisa said as she assembled the salad. "Women need advanced warning for things like this, even if it's to run a brush through their hair and freshen up. It helps in being able to comfortably present themselves to others, especially those they don't know well." She pinned him with a look. "Make it a habit, and your life with Bella will be much happier."
"Noted," he said as he nudged Rudy with his boot. "You back with us yet Bro?"
Rudy looked up. "You say something?"
Paul scoffed and chuckled. "Yeah man, I asked if you're back among the living yet, but apparently not."
Rudy looked stricken as he ran a hand through his hair. "Sorry man, just trying to come to grips." He looked between his cousin and Aunt. "Why didn't I ever hear of this before now?"
Paul scowled and wiggled his fingers as he answered. "Because it was a big tribal secret that not even those afflicted were let in on until we found ourselves all furry and on four paws."
Rudy's brows disappeared into his hairline. "They didn't even tell you until after it happened?"
Paul shook his head. "Nope." He craned his head toward the entryway and stairs as he called out, "Bella! You ready yet baby? Come on, we gotta go!"
"Yeah, yeah," she answered as she trotted down the stairs. "Give me all of five minutes warning and then yell that I'm holding you up," she grumbled just as Paul's phone rang.
He dug it out and answered. "Speak." He listened for a minute and grabbed his keys from the hook. "Yeah, sure, no problem. We'll be there as soon as we've picked it up. You're welcome."
He ended the call and opened the door. "That was Sam. They need us to go by the market and get a case of soda and ice. See ya Mom!" he called out as he shut the door.
"Good," Bella said as she climbed into the truck and slid to the middle as Rudy got in. "At least we won't show up empty handed."
Paul smirked as he started the truck and pulled out. "This isn't some dinner party shorty. Just a get together."
"They're feeding us aren't they?" she asked with a huff.
"I sure as hell hope so," he answered. "I'm starving."
"Well, if they're feeding us, it's kind of rude to show up without bringing anything."
He grinned. "I'm gracing them with my presence. That should be enough."
Rudy choked on a laugh and Bella slapped Paul's shoulder. "Get over yourself," she told him with an eye roll.
"What?" he asked as he drove. "You know I'm gorgeous," he wiggled his brows and she looked away with a smile and a sigh.
"Damn if I can argue with that." She looked back at him with narrowed eyes as she pointed a finger. "But, you are becoming an arrogant ass. Don't make me take you down a notch."
He slung his arm around her and pulled her close. "What was that you were saying about my ass? You love it? You think it's the hottest you've ever seen? You can't wait to grab it? All doable baby, but you'll have to wait until later."
She shook her head and leaned against her man in exasperated resignation as she stroked his thigh. "Ooh, a little higher B," he said with a grin.
"Behave," she grumbled and watched curiously as Rudy dug through the glove box. "What are you looking for D?" she asked as he searched.
"A pen and paper," he answered absently.
"What for?" she asked as he held up a pen and small notebook in triumph.
"To take notes. I always wondered how he does it without getting slapped. I need to get all this down so I don't forget."
"Oh my god," she sighed. "That's all the world needs; two of them."
Paul and Rudy just grinned at each other over her head.
Within minutes, they pulled into the parking lot of the market and hopped out. Paul took Bella's hand and they walked in while Rudy grabbed a cart and joined them. "Okay, I fucking hate stores," Paul said as some lady shot him a dark look. "So, let's find the shit and get the fuck out." He leaned down and whispered to Bella, "I smell leech, so no bullshit. Let's make this quick."
Her eyes widened. "Maybe you and Rudy should go wait in the truck and I'll get the soda and ice."
His lip curled in a silent snarl. "No way." He tugged her hand and they headed toward the soda aisle. "We'll just make it quick."
They were half way down the aisle when Bella's stomach dropped at a familiar voice and she turned even as Paul's hold on her hand tensed. "Bella! Hey, it's good to see you again. Sorry again for running out on you so abruptly yesterday," Angela said with a bright smile as she stuck out her hand. "Hi, I'm Angela and you're Paul. Bella showed me your picture yesterday. It's nice to meet you!"
Paul shook it while eyeing Angela's companion coldly. "Oh!" Angela exclaimed. "This is my friend and boyfriend's sister, Alice Cullen." She looked back at Bella. "We're here getting things for Edward. Alice said he's sick so I wanted to make my famous chicken soup for him and pick up some Sprite to settle his stomach, poor baby."
Bella glanced at Paul who was keeping it together admirably so far, with the exception of being as cold as ice personality wise. He wasn't even shaking. Then she glanced at Rudy and her heart nearly stopped. He was flushed, sweating and shaking. She turned to Paul. "Baby, you need to take D to the truck. I'll finish up here and be right with you."
He glanced at his cousin and muttered, "Shit," under his breath. "All right shorty," he said reluctantly. "But I'm giving it ten minutes before all hell breaks loose."
She nodded sharply. "Got it, now take him and go."
She watched as Paul led the shaking Rudy from the store before turning back to a concerned looking Angela. "Gosh, he looked sick too. I hope he's all right."
Bella grabbed the soda and lifted it into the cart. "Yeah, I'm sure he will be Ang. Look, I don't mean to be rude, but I have to hurry, so I'll see you guys later."
She took off toward the ice and Angela called out a goodbye. Grabbing two bags, she tossed them in and got in the shortest line possible. "Come on…come on," she muttered while drumming her fingers on the cart handle. Finally it was her turn and the cashier scanned her stuff with the gun. She paid with her debit card and grabbed the receipt.
"Have a good one," the cashier smiled and she waved as she hurried toward the door. "Oh god, oh god, let him be okay," she chanted as she power walked to the truck where Paul hopped out. "How is he?" she asked as Paul loaded the soda and ice in the back and shoved the cart to the side. He opened his door and helped Bella in. "Not good," was all he said and she could now see just how 'not good' he was. In fact, he looked terrible.
Paul peeled out of the parking lot and sped out of town toward the reservation. "Paul," Rudy moaned. "Fuck man, you better pull over. I really need to get out," he said as the shakes worsened by the second and his teeth chattered.
"Damn it," Paul said as he skidded to a stop and Rudy opened the door to almost fall out. He recovered and staggered into the edge of the woods as Paul handed Bella his phone. "Call Sam. Tell him we have one changing. Tell him to find us and then you drive to his house and wait for us. The address is on that note paper on the dash. Now go." He kissed her quickly and took off to follow his cousin.
She reached over and closed both doors, made the call and then pulled out onto the road with one glaring question circulating through her mind: Just how the hell was this happening when Rudy wasn't a Quileute?
Bella eyed Charlie warily as she sat down at the kitchen table after cleaning up from breakfast. Paul had left for the rez as soon as the sun was up, so it had just been the two of them this morning and Charlie had been quiet throughout. It hadn't been his usual comfortable silence either. She could tell he was just waiting for the right moment, and as he folded the paper and met her eyes, she knew the moment had arrived.
He took a breath and opened his mouth, then closed it again and looked away a moment. When he looked back, there was a determined gleam in his eyes. Bella took a sip of her coffee and waited patiently; unshaken.
He must have read her equal determination because he gave a small nod and started talking. "Bells, where exactly are you planning on staying when this move happens?"
She held his gaze as she answered. "I think we both know Dad. It's a bit ridiculous to tip-toe around it, but if you still need to hear the words, then I'll be staying with Paul in his room."
He sighed, sat back and took a drink from his own cup. "Too fast," he muttered, staring down into the pungent liquid before meeting her eyes again. "You're right. I'd suspected as much."
She smiled wanly, knowing this had to be hard for him. Still, she wanted this all talked out before they packed their stuff and hauled it to Lisa's house. She liked Lisa very much, but that didn't mean she was comfortable enough to work through conflict with her father in front of her; not yet anyway. "Go ahead Dad. I know there's more you want to say," she said as she idly spun her coffee cup.
He nodded and sat forward. "You're so young Bells…so is Paul for that matter and I hate to see you both make a mistake…" He trailed off as Bella's gaze snapped up from where she'd been studying the table.
"You mean like the one you and Renee made?"
His brows drew together as he looked down at the folded paper his fingers now tapped a short rhythm on. Bella regretted her words almost instantly. She knew, despite his relationship with Lisa and the many years that had passed, the subject was still a sore one for Charlie. "I'm sorry Dad. That was low."
He smirked humorlessly. "No, you're right Bells, but not in the way you think." He glanced up. "I do regret it; I regret it because of the pain kid. It was painful watching the woman I loved leave me, but what hurt worse was watching her take my only child and knowing I would never get to see you grow up. Knowing I would only get visits and tiny pieces of your life at best and I was right and here we are today, trying like hell to know each other through an impossible situation." He shook his head and took a drink from his cup before speaking quietly once again. "And now, I have to sit back and watch as you and Paul put yourselves in a situation with the same potential and it scares the hell out of me."
She bristled. "I'm not Renee," she protested and he lifted a hand.
"I never said you were. I know you and Paul are different people and I love both of you. I wasn't kidding when I said I love that kid Bells. He's like a son to me and he's been through more shit in his young life than anyone should ever have to. And now, he's tied to this place more firmly than I ever was, do you really understand that?"
Her eyes widened as she sat back, only now grasping where Charlie was going with this. "You're afraid I'll hurt him," she breathed in shock and dawning comprehension.
He furrowed his brow and tapped the paper for a few beats before meeting her surprised gaze as she stared at him. "I'm afraid you'll hurt each other," he quickly amended before continuing on. "But Bella, if something were to happen and you ever walked out, I can almost guarantee you'd break him for good. I've seen the way he is with you and with as well as I know him, I don't think he'd ever recover. He's strong Bells and smart and determined, but love and relationships? Those are his achilles heel, and with how he feels for you…you are probably the only person on earth who could destroy him. I just want you to realize that; to realize that this isn't just a case of playing house between two teens who are rushing to grow up. Please be careful and certain. That's all I'm asking."
She studied her cup and nodded slowly. "I understand Dad," she quietly affirmed before looking at him steadily. "But you need to know I love him more than my own life. I'm in this for the long haul. Again, I'm not Renee. I've never been fickle or flighty. Paul is the only one for me and I won't fail him."
She stood and hugged him and he tensed for a second before returning it. When she pulled away and took her seat, she smiled. "I'm glad you love him Dad and I'm happy you've been there for him. I'm relieved by this talk though. Frankly, I'd been worried. I thought for sure it would have been about last night."
Charlie grunted as he got up to refill his cup from the steaming pot. He turned and leaned against the counter as he blew on the contents and took a sip. He smirked. "I figured I made my point well enough last night."
She narrowed her eyes. "You did, trust me. He couldn't seem to get back to the couch fast enough."
Charlie chuckled. "Good," was all he said and Bella rolled her eyes as she rose from her seat and washed out her cup.
"I'm gonna head up stairs and pack what little I've managed to actually unpack since I've been here. Paul should be back with his truck in just a bit. Do you need any help with your stuff?"
He waved her off. "Nah, it's mostly just clothes I'm taking. I'll wait until everything settles down to come back and go through everything. For now, I'm just going to set up the house for being empty for a while and leave it at that."
She'd just re-taped the last box when the sound of a diesel truck pulling up caught her attention. Moments later, she heard the front door open and Paul's voice calling out, "Hello? B? Charlie? Is it safe to come in?"
She opened her bedroom door and yelled to him, "Up here! Come on up!" She got a shock though when he walked in a moment later. He wasn't alone and he smirked and flopped onto her bed as she darted past him to grab the other person in a crushing hug. "Rudy!" she shrieked as he laughed.
"Whoa, B! Slow your roll girl! It hasn't been that long."
She backed away and grinned at him. "What are you doing here? Not that I'm not glad to see you…"
He pulled out the desk chair and straddled it while resting his arms across the back. "I had to come solve the mystery surrounding my baby cousin since neither of you"—he glared between the two—"would tell me a damn thing."
Bella shot Paul a loaded glance and he sighed and sat up. "No, I haven't told him…"
Rudy now looked genuinely pissed. "No, the fucker hasn't but he will, even if I have to beat it outta him. I mean, not going to school?! That's fucked up and I mean to find out why."
Bella sat beside Paul and placed a hand on his back as he hung his head and nodded. "Now that you're here, I suppose I'll have to tell you, but you're not gonna believe it when I do." He looked at his cousin who was looking more concerned by the minute and smirked bitterly. "I hardly believe it myself." He hopped up from the bed. "It's gonna have to wait though. For now, we need to get Bella and Charlie moved so grab a box and we'll start loading."
Rudy got up and glanced at Bella who was tracing the pattern on her bedspread with a finger while avoiding looking at anyone. "Yeah, all right," he muttered. "But you're not gonna put me off forever."
"Nope," Paul agreed as he hefted a stack of boxes. "Not trying to. I just wanna get this done. I'll feel better once they're all moved in."
They got all of Bella's stuff loaded and started on Charlie's when Sam showed up to speak to Paul. They walked away toward the tree line and Rudy leaned against the side of the truck where Bella was standing. He nudged her shoulder. "That's one intense looking dude," he observed as Bella watched them.
She smirked and glanced up at Rudy. "Yeah, he is. No people skills what-so-ever but he gets a little better as you get to know him."
Rudy popped a piece of gum into his mouth and absently offered one to Bella. "He a friend of Paulie's? I don't remember him mentioning the dude."
She shook her head at the offered gum and he pocketed it. "No, not a friend really. As a matter of fact, he was the guy who showed up in AZ and took Paul."
"What?!" he hissed, a murderous look on his face as he pushed off the truck and took a step. Bella grabbed his arm and stepped in front of him.
"No D, wait. That's all been worked out and Sam's no threat to Paul." Rudy frowned down at her as she stared up at him. "Please? Just trust me? We'll explain everything later, I promise."
He sighed and sagged back against the truck. "This whole situation is fucked up B. My heart is hurting for Paul. I know he's not taking whatever this is well. It hangs over him like a cloud and the only time he's seemed even remotely like himself is around you." He looked down at her and the depth of emotion she saw there warmed her heart. His love for his cousin was obvious.
"I'm glad you're here D," she said as she leaned against the truck beside him. "How long you staying?"
He smiled brightly. "Welllll," he drawled. "I might have cashed out on everything in AZ, bought my own catering truck, hooked my car to the back and brought everything with me."
She turned to him with a grin. "No shit?! Does that mean you're here to stay?"
He shrugged and tried to look nonchalant despite the grin he was sporting. "Maybe…"
She narrowed her eyes and he caved. "Okay, yeah that was the plan."
She hugged him and he laughed as he returned it. "You're good for him, you know?" she asked as she let him go and stepped back.
He gave a noncommittal shrug. "I love the little fucker, always have. He's always felt like more of a brother to me than a cousin. I don't know why that is, but it's true."
She glanced askance and smirked. "Little?" she questioned dubiously and he chuckled.
"Yeah, that term doesn't apply these days does it?"
She gazed over at Paul who was busy gesturing with his hands as he spoke to Sam. "Not by any stretch of the imagination," she murmured and laughed when Rudy lightly shoved her.
"Shit B, not you too! I heard enough of that kinda shit from all the girls back in AZ, thanks very much."
Her mouth hung open and she stared at him with wide eyes. "There wasn't anything remotely sexual in what I just said," she defended herself.
"I was born B, but it wasn't yesterday…"
She grinned wickedly. "Fine, we'll change the subject. So, your living arrangements?"
He nodded, looking relieved. "I spoke to Aunt Lisa. I get the third bedroom until I get my catering business established here, then I guess I'll get my own place. It'll probably be in town though since I'm not exactly Quileute. Aunt Lisa said she'd help with that when the time comes since she's in the real estate business."
"So, you're so sure you're gonna like it here?" she asked as she eyed him speculatively.
He took a slow deep breath as he surveyed the trees. "You know," he said quietly as he gazed around, "I've always felt more at home here than I have in AZ. I don't know what it is about this place, but it just feels like I'm where I should be, like it's a part of me somehow." He looked down at her as she cocked a brow. "You asked," he said with a shrug and she nodded.
"I did," she said as she thought about his words. She could never remember feeling that way about this place until after meeting and falling in love with Paul, but now she knew without a doubt; this place was a part of her and always would be.
She looked up at Paul when he walked back over to them as Sam disappeared into the trees. "Everything okay?" she asked as he pulled her into his arms.
"Yeah, he just wanted to let me know there are a couple others he thinks are ready to…uh, join his group," he finished as he glanced at Rudy who rolled his eyes.
"What?" Rudy questioned. "He have a secret club or something? Don't worry, I'm not into cliques. I won't get jealous or catty," he said with a smirk while batting his lashes.
Bella laughed while Paul muttered, "Crazy fucker." He opened the passenger door for Bella and helped her in. "Come on Cuz, let's get going. We have a house to fill. Mom isn't gonna know what to do with herself with so many people around."
Rudy climbed in and shut the door as Paul started the truck. He looked worried. "She's not pissed is she Paulie? I mean, I kinda just showed up and sprang all this on her…"
Paul snorted. "No, she's not pissed. She loves you. If anything, she's almost giddy bro. She's always wanted a big family and just never had the chance with all the shit she went through with my old man, the bastard, may he burn in hell," he finished with vehemence.
Bella placed a hand on his thigh and he smiled at her as he pulled out onto the road. "I'm good shorty, don't worry," he said and placed his arm around her.
"Well, that's good to hear," Rudy cut in sounding relieved. "Sleeping in my car is a bitch."
Bella grinned. "When did you have to sleep in your car?"
"Well, on the way here, I just crashed at a rest-stop. Didn't wanna blow cash on a room, ya know. And then there were the many times Mom kicked me out for a night or two when she'd get pissed at me. Those were always fun."
"She did that?" Bella asked incredulously.
His brows drew together. "Yeah, on occasion when I got old enough where it wouldn't be considered abuse or neglect or whatever. I kind of preferred that though over having her pissed at me and not being able to get some distance."
Bella just stared, her mouth open and he continued. "I was never her favorite son. She never said anything, but I could tell, ya know? She always treated me differently than my siblings. My Dad did too." He shrugged and stared out the window as he went quiet.
Bella reached over and patted his hand before giving it a squeeze. "Well, you're here now and we're glad to have you. Leave the past in the past. We're the only family you need."
He smiled. "Damn B, you sure you don't have a sister or a close cousin available?"
"Nope," she answered with a smirk. "Unless Charlie or Renee neglected to mention something, I'm an only child of only children."
"Damn," he muttered.
She patted his hand again. "There's someone out there for you D, you just have to have faith and be patient."
"Yeah," Paul agreed with a wicked smirk. "Until then, the rez is full of hot girls…" he trailed off with a grunt as Bella elbowed him in the side sharply.
"Just because I give you a pass on your past exploits doesn't mean I wanna hear about it and Rudy doesn't need to be wasting his time on a bunch of skanks," she groused while rubbing her smarting elbow.
Paul eyed Rudy. "Sorry Cuz, I tried."
Rudy shrugged. "Nah, B's right. I need to concentrate on getting my business going. That'll keep me busy. I'm twenty-two. It's time I became responsible and shit."
"Dude!" Paul exclaimed as his brows inched up. "I agree you need to get your business going and all that, but you're only twenty-two! In your prime, man! Not exactly the time to retire little Rudy, know what I mean?"
Bella sat up straight and glared at Paul. "You talk like you're in 'retirement'. Regretting something, Paul?"
Rudy smirked and looked out the window as Paul's eyes widened and he grabbed Bella's hand. "Baby! No!" He kissed her hand as she stared at him flatly. "You're more than I could ever dream," he wheedled and leaned down to whisper in her ear as he kept his eyes on the road. "You fuckin' blow my mind every time B. You are the ultimate woman. My search is over. Nobody compares to you and I'd stay buried in you all the time if I could. Just fuckin' slide in and stay there…"
She laughed and shoved him. "You ass," she said with a mock glare as he dissolved into laughter.
"But I mean it baby!" he said with a cheeky grin while pulling off the road and into his driveway.
"Mmm hmm," she said as she rolled her eyes and nudged a laughing Rudy. "Let me outta this truck. I need some Lisa time. You guys are having too much fun at my expense." She hopped down and waved a hand without turning back. "Now get to work. I'll see you later."
"Yes Ma'am," they both intoned together just as the door closed behind her. She sighed with a grin and a shake of her head as she went to find Lisa.
The door closed and Rudy turned to Paul. "So, that guy, Sam…"
Paul sighed and leaned on the truck. "You'll meet him later. We've, well Bella and I, have been invited to his house for an informal dinner and you can come along if you want. He thinks it's time we got to know his group since it's…expanding."
"Uh huh," Rudy muttered. "This feels kinda weird for some reason." He glanced at Paul. "I mean, from what B says, you guys aren't exactly friends. He's the fucker that grabbed you in AZ for fuck's sake. Why would you want any more to do with the dude?"
Paul sighed and scratched at the back of his neck. "It's complicated." He looked over at Rudy who was staring expectantly. "Okay, you want the story now? I'll give you the short version, but you have to suspend disbelief and don't give me any "you can't be serious" bullshit. Everything I'm about to tell you is true, no fucking around. Got it?"
Rudy nodded slowly, a frown marring his brow. "Got it."
So Paul spent the next ten minutes telling Rudy the quick version of everything that had happened and why since he'd been taken from AZ. When he finished, his cousin was very quiet as he stared at his shoes. Finally, he broke the silence with a low whistle. "Fuuuuck," he muttered as he looked at Paul with wide eyes. "Suspend disbelief is right…" He shook his head. "I mean, I remember the legends from hearing them as a kid when I'd visit, but never did I imagine they were real… If you hadn't said what you did before telling me this, I would swear you were punking me." He locked his gaze with Paul's. "But you're not…I can tell by the look in your eyes, you're fuckin' serious."
"I told you that up front Rudy."
He nodded. "Yes, you did. And it explains so much. I just couldn't picture anything preventing you from school and baseball, but now? With this? Shit…" he muttered.
Paul nodded and pushed off the truck. "Yep, shit is right. Now let's get all this stuff in the house before Mom and Bella come looking for us. Charlie should be here soon with the last of his clothes and then it'll be time to head over to Sam's."
When they had all the stuff unloaded, they made their way into the kitchen where they could hear Lisa and Bella talking and laughing.
Paul walked up behind Bella as she chopped vegetables for dinner. "Be careful with that knife shorty," he said as he pulled her back against his body and kissed her neck. She dropped the knife on the cutting board and tilted her head with a smile. "Hi," she breathed as her eyes closed, just enjoying the feel of his lips on her skin.
Rudy sat beside Lisa at the small table. He was uncharacteristically quiet and Lisa noticed immediately. "You all right Rudy? You don't seem yourself."
Paul let go of Bella and grabbed two bottles of water from the fridge, one of which he tossed to Rudy. "He'll be fine Mom. He's just trying to grasp all I told him."
"Oh honey," she said with a frown. "You hit the poor kid with everything at once?"
Paul took a drink and shrugged as he leaned against the counter. "He wanted to know."
Lisa sighed and eyed her nephew as he toyed with the water. "Yes but…"
Paul cut her off. "Look Mom, there's just no way to ease someone into that kind of information."
She stared off for a beat then nodded. "You're right, there isn't." She looked back at Rudy. "You gonna be okay there kid?"
Rudy chuckled as he opened his water. "Yeah, I think so. I mean, I haven't really seen it with my own eyes yet. I'm sure when I do, it'll become all too real to me."
Paul scowled. "Well, no offense but I'm not a trained poodle, so you'll have to wait for a demonstration."
"Paul!" Lisa admonished. "I don't think Rudy was asking."
"Yeah, I know," he shrugged and downed more water. "I was just making it clear so there were no misunderstandings when he comes out of his stupor." He reached over for an olive and Bella slapped at his hand and missed. He grinned. "I'm too fast for you shorty," he said as he popped the olive into his mouth.
"There are other punishments available to me so don't push your luck," she grumbled while stifling a smile.
He looked smug. "You wouldn't. You can't resist me."
Lisa rolled her eyes and threw a towel at her son's head. "Bella might not be able to but now she has me to keep you in line so watch yourself son."
"But Mom! You're supposed to be on my side at all times! When did this happen?" He looked back and forth between the two smirking females.
Bella inclined her head to Lisa. "Thank you Lisa. The help is appreciated."
Lisa smiled wickedly. "Anytime, love."
Paul rolled his eyes. "Whatever," he said as he stood and tossed the bottle into the recycle bin. He turned back to Bella. "We need to head over to Sam's place. We're supposed to have dinner over there."
Her mouth dropped open. "Why didn't you tell me earlier?"
He pressed his lips together as his brows rose. "Uh, I was busy?"
She gave him a flat look and he grinned sheepishly. "I'm telling you now!" he defended himself as he looked at the clock. "You still have like twenty minutes before we have to be there…"
She cut him off with a growl and turned to Lisa. "It seems I have to go get ready. I'll talk to you later? Tell Charlie I love him and I'll see him later tonight, hopefully."
"Will do sweetie," she said as she got up to take over finishing dinner. She glanced at Paul. "You know, you need to let her know ahead of time for things like this."
"Why?" he asked as he snatched another olive. "She already looks great, it's informal so she doesn't even need to change…"
"Just trust me son." Lisa said as she assembled the salad. "Women need advanced warning for things like this, even if it's to run a brush through their hair and freshen up. It helps in being able to comfortably present themselves to others, especially those they don't know well." She pinned him with a look. "Make it a habit, and your life with Bella will be much happier."
"Noted," he said as he nudged Rudy with his boot. "You back with us yet Bro?"
Rudy looked up. "You say something?"
Paul scoffed and chuckled. "Yeah man, I asked if you're back among the living yet, but apparently not."
Rudy looked stricken as he ran a hand through his hair. "Sorry man, just trying to come to grips." He looked between his cousin and Aunt. "Why didn't I ever hear of this before now?"
Paul scowled and wiggled his fingers as he answered. "Because it was a big tribal secret that not even those afflicted were let in on until we found ourselves all furry and on four paws."
Rudy's brows disappeared into his hairline. "They didn't even tell you until after it happened?"
Paul shook his head. "Nope." He craned his head toward the entryway and stairs as he called out, "Bella! You ready yet baby? Come on, we gotta go!"
"Yeah, yeah," she answered as she trotted down the stairs. "Give me all of five minutes warning and then yell that I'm holding you up," she grumbled just as Paul's phone rang.
He dug it out and answered. "Speak." He listened for a minute and grabbed his keys from the hook. "Yeah, sure, no problem. We'll be there as soon as we've picked it up. You're welcome."
He ended the call and opened the door. "That was Sam. They need us to go by the market and get a case of soda and ice. See ya Mom!" he called out as he shut the door.
"Good," Bella said as she climbed into the truck and slid to the middle as Rudy got in. "At least we won't show up empty handed."
Paul smirked as he started the truck and pulled out. "This isn't some dinner party shorty. Just a get together."
"They're feeding us aren't they?" she asked with a huff.
"I sure as hell hope so," he answered. "I'm starving."
"Well, if they're feeding us, it's kind of rude to show up without bringing anything."
He grinned. "I'm gracing them with my presence. That should be enough."
Rudy choked on a laugh and Bella slapped Paul's shoulder. "Get over yourself," she told him with an eye roll.
"What?" he asked as he drove. "You know I'm gorgeous," he wiggled his brows and she looked away with a smile and a sigh.
"Damn if I can argue with that." She looked back at him with narrowed eyes as she pointed a finger. "But, you are becoming an arrogant ass. Don't make me take you down a notch."
He slung his arm around her and pulled her close. "What was that you were saying about my ass? You love it? You think it's the hottest you've ever seen? You can't wait to grab it? All doable baby, but you'll have to wait until later."
She shook her head and leaned against her man in exasperated resignation as she stroked his thigh. "Ooh, a little higher B," he said with a grin.
"Behave," she grumbled and watched curiously as Rudy dug through the glove box. "What are you looking for D?" she asked as he searched.
"A pen and paper," he answered absently.
"What for?" she asked as he held up a pen and small notebook in triumph.
"To take notes. I always wondered how he does it without getting slapped. I need to get all this down so I don't forget."
"Oh my god," she sighed. "That's all the world needs; two of them."
Paul and Rudy just grinned at each other over her head.
Within minutes, they pulled into the parking lot of the market and hopped out. Paul took Bella's hand and they walked in while Rudy grabbed a cart and joined them. "Okay, I fucking hate stores," Paul said as some lady shot him a dark look. "So, let's find the shit and get the fuck out." He leaned down and whispered to Bella, "I smell leech, so no bullshit. Let's make this quick."
Her eyes widened. "Maybe you and Rudy should go wait in the truck and I'll get the soda and ice."
His lip curled in a silent snarl. "No way." He tugged her hand and they headed toward the soda aisle. "We'll just make it quick."
They were half way down the aisle when Bella's stomach dropped at a familiar voice and she turned even as Paul's hold on her hand tensed. "Bella! Hey, it's good to see you again. Sorry again for running out on you so abruptly yesterday," Angela said with a bright smile as she stuck out her hand. "Hi, I'm Angela and you're Paul. Bella showed me your picture yesterday. It's nice to meet you!"
Paul shook it while eyeing Angela's companion coldly. "Oh!" Angela exclaimed. "This is my friend and boyfriend's sister, Alice Cullen." She looked back at Bella. "We're here getting things for Edward. Alice said he's sick so I wanted to make my famous chicken soup for him and pick up some Sprite to settle his stomach, poor baby."
Bella glanced at Paul who was keeping it together admirably so far, with the exception of being as cold as ice personality wise. He wasn't even shaking. Then she glanced at Rudy and her heart nearly stopped. He was flushed, sweating and shaking. She turned to Paul. "Baby, you need to take D to the truck. I'll finish up here and be right with you."
He glanced at his cousin and muttered, "Shit," under his breath. "All right shorty," he said reluctantly. "But I'm giving it ten minutes before all hell breaks loose."
She nodded sharply. "Got it, now take him and go."
She watched as Paul led the shaking Rudy from the store before turning back to a concerned looking Angela. "Gosh, he looked sick too. I hope he's all right."
Bella grabbed the soda and lifted it into the cart. "Yeah, I'm sure he will be Ang. Look, I don't mean to be rude, but I have to hurry, so I'll see you guys later."
She took off toward the ice and Angela called out a goodbye. Grabbing two bags, she tossed them in and got in the shortest line possible. "Come on…come on," she muttered while drumming her fingers on the cart handle. Finally it was her turn and the cashier scanned her stuff with the gun. She paid with her debit card and grabbed the receipt.
"Have a good one," the cashier smiled and she waved as she hurried toward the door. "Oh god, oh god, let him be okay," she chanted as she power walked to the truck where Paul hopped out. "How is he?" she asked as Paul loaded the soda and ice in the back and shoved the cart to the side. He opened his door and helped Bella in. "Not good," was all he said and she could now see just how 'not good' he was. In fact, he looked terrible.
Paul peeled out of the parking lot and sped out of town toward the reservation. "Paul," Rudy moaned. "Fuck man, you better pull over. I really need to get out," he said as the shakes worsened by the second and his teeth chattered.
"Damn it," Paul said as he skidded to a stop and Rudy opened the door to almost fall out. He recovered and staggered into the edge of the woods as Paul handed Bella his phone. "Call Sam. Tell him we have one changing. Tell him to find us and then you drive to his house and wait for us. The address is on that note paper on the dash. Now go." He kissed her quickly and took off to follow his cousin.
She reached over and closed both doors, made the call and then pulled out onto the road with one glaring question circulating through her mind: Just how the hell was this happening when Rudy wasn't a Quileute?
DISCLAIMER: Twilight and its inclusive material is copyright to Stephenie Meyer. Original creation, including but not limited to plot and characters, is copyright to the respective authors of each story. No copyright infringement is intended.