Breathe In Union
by Laura Spudzmom
Chapter 26
Jacob Black ran a hand over his shower-damp hair as he stumbled down the hall to the kitchen. His jaw cracked with a huge yawn as he absently scratched at the taut, fuzz dusted skin just above the waist of his jeans. He was beat from too little sleep and waking up was a chore, to put it politely.
"Morning son," Billy Black greeted with a sidelong glance and smirk before taking a sip of coffee and going back to his paper.
Jacob ambled over to the stove and lifted the lid off a skillet. "Breakfast," he mumbled at the sight of scrambled eggs and bacon. "Awesome."
"There's bread in the toaster. Just put it down. Didn't want to make that ahead since I didn't know when you'd be up and around," Billy explained while turning a page.
"Yeah, cold, soggy toast sucks," Jake commented, drawing an absent "Mm hm" from his father.
He depressed the lever on the toaster and yawned again while pulling a cup from the cabinet. "Thanks by the way," he muttered while pouring some of the heady brew for himself. He held up the pot. "Need a refill?"
Billy glanced at his cup and held it out. "Sure," he said while eyeing his exhausted kid. "Rough night?" he asked while Jake filled his cup and set the pot back on the warmer.
The toast popped up and Jake plated it along with the eggs and bacon before taking a seat across from his Dad. "Nah, not really, just long and boring." He buttered his toast and began eating while Billy watched him closely.
"No new signs then?" he asked with a furrowed brow.
Jake swallowed and took a liberal sip of coffee. "Nope," he said before going back to his food.
Billy glanced out the window with a frown. Usually, no news would be very good news where cold ones were concerned, but he knew what was coming and that it would only be a matter of time; they all did, and so this tense holding pattern they were in was wearing on them all, especially the pack.
"It's like waiting for the other shoe to drop, ain't it?" Jake muttered between bites.
Billy turned back and took a sip of coffee before nodding. "It is," he agreed.
"Colin Littlesea and Brady Fuller phased," Jake commented while meeting his father's appalled gaze.
Billy closed his eyes and rubbed at his brow with a sigh. "They're so young," he said, his tone laced with sadness. He looked up at his son. "You all are."
Jake smirked bitterly and saluted with his cup. "Seems the Spirits don't give a shit about little things like age or life goals Pops."
"Jacob," Billy warned, his brows drawn.
Jake scowled. "What? It's the truth," he said as he finished off the last bite of bacon and rose to put his plate in the sink. He stood there a moment, just staring out the window and Billy shook his head.
"We don't see—can't see—the bigger picture son. Don't let yourself become bitter, Jake. You'll only hurt yourself and those you love by being so."
Jake turned and leaned against the counter. He glared at the floor a moment before speaking. "It's damned hard not to Dad. I mean, when do I get a say in my life, huh?" He looked up at his dad and hated the pain he saw in Billy's eyes, but the pent up anger inside him kept his mouth going. "I feel like all I've ever done is be there for other people, and now…" he scoffed and rubbed the back of his neck. "Now, I'll never escape this place."
Billy hung his head. "I'm sorry son. I'm sorry you've had to take care of me all these years…"
"Dad, no…just…no, that's not what I mean, not really."
Billy looked up and cocked a brow.
Jake sighed and a slight growl escaped him. "Okay, does part of me resent that? Yes." Billy nodded and Jake held up a hand. "Wait, hear me out," he insisted and Billy inclined his head. "I'm pissed Dad, but not at you. You can't help your health problems and disabilities, and so I'm happy to be able to help you. Who I'm pissed at are my sisters for thinking only of themselves and leaving the way they did." His voice wavered with tears as he continued. "All these years, I hoped and prayed they'd come back to us…" He slammed a hand on the edge of the counter as his expression hardened. "They left us, both of us, and haven't looked back since!" A muscle in his jaw twitched. "How could they do that Dad and still live with themselves?!"
"Your sisters just needed…" Billy began tiredly but Jake cut him off with a fierce scowl and a wave of his hand. This was an old argument between them…
"No! No more excuses Dad! I've heard them all and they're all bullshit! I won't listen to it anymore! What about what you needed? What I needed?! I was just a little kid!"
Billy shook his head. "They're my daughters, your sisters, our blood…"
He watched as his son's expression turned to stone. "Not anymore. It's been four years since we've heard from them and I know you've tried Dad, without success. We both have…"
"Jake…" Billy trailed off as his son straightened to his considerable height, shoulders squared and eyes steely as he spoke in a tone Billy hadn't heard since his own father, the previous Chief, had died decades before.
"Hear me now because this is the last I will speak of it: They are no longer my sisters; no longer my blood. They are dead to me and dead to our people."
He walked out of the kitchen and Billy stared out the window with a weary sigh. His son wasn't a Chief yet, but that was the voice of one, there was no denying it and his heart ached because he knew; there was no longer a place in the tribe for his daughters. There would be no reconciliation…ever.
~o0o~
Jacob parked his bike at the side of Sam's house and bounded up the steps. After a cursory knock on the screen, he opened it and walked in.
"What's up douchebag?" Quil greeted with a smirk as Embry snickered. They, as usual, were sitting at the huge dining table Sam had made, eating cookies. Jake rolled his eyes and snatched a cookie off Quil's plate before dropping into a chair.
"You should know, you're the nozzle," he quipped before stuffing the whole cookie in his mouth with a smile curving his lips.
Embry snickered again and Quil rolled his eyes.
"So, where's our fearless leader?" Jake asked while popping the top on a soda. He didn't feel guilty about eating and drinking at Sam's place because he knew the Council paid for all of it. It was one perk they were all grateful for. That, and the generous clothing allowance each one of them got every month. Jake wasn't too impressed though. He, and all the others figured it was the least the Council could do for the risks they took and the freedoms they sacrificed. 'Oh, and the hours of boredom and lost sleep too…can't forget those,' he thought sourly.
"He and Jared are training the newbies," Embry answered before letting out a deep belch with a grin.
"Guys, come on!" Emily protested from the kitchen.
"It was Embry!" Jake yelled while dodging a punch to his arm.
"Yeah, well, it was gross," she grumbled as she walked out with a platter of sandwiches.
They were grabbing at them before she could set them on the table. "Thanks Emily," Quil said through a mouthful and she wrinkled her nose.
"Ya know, just because you guys turn into giant dogs doesn't mean you need to behave like them at my table."
Jake chuckled and eyed his two best friends. "You can't blame this on the wolf Emily. They've always been this way."
She wiped her hands on a towel and glared at the culprits. "Mind your manners or I won't feed you here anymore."
They both slowed down and looked sheepish. Embry swallowed and wiped his mouth on a napkin. "Sorry Emily," he muttered before taking a drink.
She smiled and rolled her eyes. "Just clean up after yourselves," she said as she walked back into the kitchen. "I have enough to do just keeping you all fed and the kitchen clean."
Jake toyed with the tab on his soda can. "So, where are all the others?"
Embry shrugged. "Not here," he said before taking another bite.
"Rudy was on with you last night, right?" Quil asked and Jake nodded. "Well, he hasn't shown up here yet, so he's probably still sleeping. As for the Clearwaters, they should be here soon."
Jake nodded. "That should be interesting," he muttered.
"Whaddya mean?" Embry asked before popping the last bite of sandwich into his mouth.
Jake shrugged a shoulder. "Well, Rudy and Leah haven't been around each other since…"
He trailed off as the screen opened and a female voice interrupted. "I suppose it's too much to ask for you dickwads to mind your own business," she growled before dropping into a seat.
"Hi guys!" Seth greeted as he walked in with his ever-present grin. "Ooh, sandwiches!" he said while sitting next to his sister. He grabbed a paper plate from the stack and snagged two sandwiches and a bag of chips and happily began eating.
Leah shook her head and grabbed two sodas from the cooler before sitting back down and giving him one.
"So, I take it from the petty gossip and vacant look in your eyes, our mighty alpha is absent?" she sniped with a sneer as she popped the tab on her drink.
"Your talent of perception astounds me Leah, truly," Jake muttered before grabbing his own plate and sandwich.
She flipped him off.
"You'd enjoy it too much," he answered with a smirk just as Emily walked in. She froze.
"Oh, uh, hi Leah, Seth," she greeted weakly.
Seth gave her a wan smile and a wave. Leah ignored her completely while pulling her phone out to see the time. "I'll give him another ten minutes, then I'm leaving."
Jake rolled his eyes while the others looked everywhere but at the surly female shifter.
Emily sagged visibly. "Well, if anyone needs anything…" she motioned toward the kitchen and Jake smiled.
"We'll let ya know," he said. "Thanks."
She smiled gratefully and left the room. No one missed the curl of Leah's top lip.
"You should cut her some slack, especially now that you know what the whole imprint thing is like," Jake opined while meeting her hostile gaze dead on.
"Like I said, mind your own business," she snapped. "I do know how the whole imprint thing goes and she didn't have to take him from me! She had choices! She was the only one that did!" she hissed. "She could've settled for friendship, or treated him as a brother, but she didn't and I won't forgive or forget, so fuck off with your advice. It's not needed or wanted."
"Leah," Seth murmured while placing a hand on her arm. She yanked away from him.
"Don't," she warned and then looked him in the eye, her tone mellowing. "Just…don't little brother, okay?"
He sighed but then nodded and went back to his food, his happy grin gone for the moment.
The screen door spring whined in protest as Rudy walked in just then, looking about as tired as Jake felt. He paused for a beat when he saw Leah, but continued on to take the open seat next to Jake. He looked around at all the somber faces and scoffed. "Don't all talk at once guys, jesus." He got up, walked around Leah and grabbed a soda from the cooler before retaking his seat.
"Hey Rudy," Jake muttered.
"Jake," he returned before guzzling half his drink. He looked over at Leah's tense form and shook his head. "Look Leah, we have to work together. Let's not make it weird, okay?"
Her head shot up, her eyes wide. "What? Oh, uh, yeah, okay. Sounds good to me," she finished with a shrug as she looked back down to the soda she held clasped in both hands.
He sighed before looking at everyone else. "So I take it I'm not late for the meeting?"
Embry shook his head. "Nope. Hasn't even started. Sam's out with Jared and two newbies. Should be here any time though."
Rudy nodded.
"So, Paul and Bella?" Jake questioned.
Rudy grinned. "In Seattle for her birthday. Should be back tomorrow."
"Have you heard from them at all?" Jake asked with a smile.
"Not yet but that doesn't surprise me. Would you be on the phone if you had two nights in a posh hotel with a smokin' hot girlfriend?" The guys just stared at him, looking a bit dazed and he snorted. "Yeah, me either."
Leah scoffed and twisted her napkin while looking away. "Typical male," she muttered quietly.
"Wouldn't you like to know…" he drawled with an arched brow and a smirk. She looked at him, startled and her cheeks pinked up as she looked down at her lap. Seth was now looking at him with something resembling awe and he grinned and grabbed a plate and a sandwich. 'Game on sweetheart,' he thought as he ate while watching her fidget from the corner of his eye. 'Game on.'
The door opened again and Kim walked in while tucking her hair behind her ear. "Hi you guys. Is Jared here?"
They all waved in greeting and Jake shook his head. "Not yet. I think he's probably gonna stay on patrol with one of the newbies while Sam conducts the meeting. Sorry."
She sighed. "It's okay. I'll just go…hang out with Emily," she said with a nervous glance at Leah before leaving the room.
Leah scowled as she watched the timid girl leave. "Why does everyone feel the need to tip-toe around me all the time?"
Rudy smirked but wisely chose to stay quiet while Jake looked at her with his mouth hanging open. Embry found something fascinating to look at through the window and Quil was either very brave or very stupid as he spluttered, "You cannot be serious?"
Seth's eyes widened. He looked between Quil and his sister as her eyes narrowed at who, he was sure, was soon to be a dead man. "Of course I'm serious," she snarled. "Why is that so shocking?"
"B—because you're a first rate bitch! …to everyone…all the time! It doesn't exactly make you warm and cuddly, or even approachable, for that matter." he answered, his voice full of disbelief. How one person could be so purposely ignorant was a complete mystery to him and he didn't mind saying so.
"Pfft," she said before her gaze darted to Rudy who was quietly watching, his expression soft, his gaze steady. She mentally cursed the blush that heated her cheeks as she looked away in shame. She knew Quil had spoken the truth. She knew she was a bristly bitch and it had never bothered her…until now. Until she saw the patient, understanding look in Rudy's eyes. "Whatever," she muttered before taking a sip of soda.
Seth had been watching his sister carefully and he saw the look that passed between her and Rudy. He looked over and gave the other shifter a small smile and a nod which Rudy subtly returned. 'Yeah,' he thought in relief, 'my sister's gonna be okay.'
They all heard the back door in the kitchen open and close and Leah tensed immediately. Sam was there.
They heard him greet Emily with a kiss and then he walked into the dining room with Brady, a scrawny little teen and one of the newest pack members, trailing him. He motioned to an open seat. "Grab some food kid, you need it. We'll get started when you're through," he said while taking the seat at the head of the table and making his own plate. He looked up at Leah. "Toss me a soda, will ya?" he asked and her nostrils flared but she did it without a word. "Thanks," he muttered as his pack mates passed the drink to him which he popped and took a long pull from.
"Sorry I'm late," he grumbled before taking a healthy bite of a sandwich. He chewed and swallowed while glancing around at the various nods of acknowledgment.
"It was, uh, my fault," Brady volunteered. "I had some trouble with phasing back." He looked at Sam with a bit of hero worship in his eyes. "Alpha helped me though."
Jake's brows inched up and he glanced at Sam who ignored him and kept eating.
"That's great kid," Rudy said, breaking the awkward silence. "Glad he could help you. It can be a real bitch sometimes until you get used to it."
The kid chuckled. "You can say that again."
Sam finished off his sandwich and wiped his mouth on a napkin before sitting back with a sigh. "Okay," he said, getting their attention. "There isn't much to go over. I've printed out some schedules. They're stacked on the table by the front door so be sure to grab one on your way out. Don't forget it and don't lose it. Fail to show for a shift, and your ass will be mine. This is hard enough on all of us without any of us slacking. Clear?" They all nodded and he continued.
"Any of you who haven't been by the clinic for a health check, you have a week to get it done. The number is on your schedule. Call and get an appointment with Sue as soon as possible. After this week, punishments will be handed out if it's not done. No more excuses. This is an order from not just me but the Council who pays your bills."
Jacob snorted and Sam shot him a dark look but said nothing.
"So far, there've been no new scent trails picked up. We've been fortunate, but we also know it can't last. We know the red-headed female is still out there and she's vowed to come back, so stay alert. I can't stress this enough. She's lethal and she will kill you if given the chance. Just as a reminder, we're still working with the Cullens and they're allowed on our lands if they're in pursuit just as we're allowed on theirs." He met every eye, waiting for a nod before going to the next. "Good. Anyone have anything for me? Any questions?" Concerns?"
Leah leaned back in her seat. "Nope," she said and everyone seemed to agree so Sam nodded.
"Good, short and sweet. You're all free to go. Enjoy the rest of your day."
They all stood and cleaned up their places before heading out. Rudy was just stepping off the porch when he heard his name called. Not a big deal normally, but it was Leah, and that surprised him. He hid it though and turned back with a raised brow. "Yeah?"
She nodded over to the side of the porch and he walked over to join her. "What's up?"
She was looking down but raised her head when he spoke. She let out a breath. "This is really, really tough," she muttered and his brow furrowed as he waited her out. "Oh fuck it," she said while running a hand through her hair. "Look, I think—I think I'd like to get to know you," she met his gaze. "That is, if you want."
A slow smile curved his lips and her breath caught at the look in his eyes; eyes that she noticed—now that she was close enough—had small flecks of amber and green in the deep chocolate brown. They were beautiful. "I want," he said while taking her hand. He nodded toward his car. "Come on, let's get outta here."
She looked at him curiously for a beat then smiled and laced her fingers with his. "Sounds good, let's go."
~o0o~
Cool hands roamed up her sides, teasing just under the hem of her shirt as equally cool lips trailed light kisses on the tender flesh of her neck and jaw as he made his way back to her panting mouth.
"Edward," she breathed as her body arched, her hands tugging him ever closer, needing, seeking just that little bit more…
Maintaining a careful distance between them, his lips covered hers, effectively muffling her frustrated pleas. He smiled inwardly as her body relaxed back to the bed, all her focus now on their kiss as her fingers tugged at his hair.
She tried deepening the kiss, tried tempting him in by sucking and nipping at his lip but he pulled away. "No my love, we can't," he gently admonished causing her to groan and slap the bed as she looked away.
"Why not?" she finally questioned when she'd caught her breath and calmed her racing heart. She looked back at him and he shook his head while caressing the flushed apple of her cheek.
"You know why not," he murmured with a frown. "It's too dangerous and I won't risk you that way."
She sighed and sat up and he followed suit, hooking a crooked finger under her chin to guide her face back toward him. "Please don't be angry with me. I love you and would hate myself if I ever hurt you."
"But don't you see?" she asked while tracing the side of his face with her fingertips. "I trust you. You would never hurt me."
He looked down and shook his head. "Not purposely perhaps, but I could very easily lose myself and slip." He looked back at her, his eyes pleading her to understand. "One second is all it would take and you would be dead because of it. You're too precious to me to take such a chance. Do you understand?"
She dropped her hand to her lap with a sigh. "I do," she conceded. "But if not now, when?" She pinned him with a searching look and he ran a hand through his tousled hair.
"After…after your change, when you're more…durable," he finished with a crooked smirk.
She smiled and he took her hand, relieved that she wasn't angry. "Okay," she agreed. "But no backing out then mister," she said with a poke to his chest.
He chuckled. "Agreed."
She scooted to the side of the bed and he stood and helped her stand. "It's just as well. I hear Carlisle calling everyone for a family meeting."
"Convenient, that," she mumbled.
"Did you say something love? I didn't quite catch it," he said with a smirk as they left his room.
She laughed and slapped his bicep as she held his arm. 'Right," she said.
He wisely stayed silent until he seated her at the table next to him. It was then he noticed Carlisle standing off to the side as Jasper took the seat at the head. He concentrated on 'hearing' his sire but realized with confusion, he was masking his deeper thoughts by reciting medical texts. "Carlisle?" he questioned with a frown.
Carlisle held up a hand. "We wait for Emmett and Rosalie, Edward, then I'll explain."
He nodded and glanced at Angela who smiled and squeezed his hand.
Rosalie and Emmett walked in and took their seats and Carlisle moved to stand beside Jasper. "All right, now that we're all here, we can begin. First, I would ask that you hold any comments or questions until I've finished speaking." He met each gaze of his family with the exception of Jasper and they all gave a nod, although Edward, somewhat hesitantly.
"Thank you," Carlisle continued as he clasped his hands in front of himself. "What I'm about to do, I have given much thought to so please don't think I've made my decision lightly. I haven't, and I believe it to be in the best interests of our family." He looked around at them again to let that sink in. "I suppose you've all noticed the change in seating?" he questioned with a raised brow. They all nodded. "There's a very good reason for that. You see, I believe, due to the trials we now face, it's best that I step down as the leader of this coven," He smiled at Esme who squeezed his hand. "…as leader of this family," he amended.
Edward's eyes were wide as he stared at his sire. "You—you can't be serious! You're leaving?"
Carlisle was shaking his head before Edward finished. "Not at all. I wouldn't"—he glanced at Esme—"we wouldn't dream of doing such a thing. Put simply, I believe that, in times of hardship, Jasper is the superior leader and therefore I am relinquishing my position to him. Consequently, you are to listen to him and follow his direction. He will also be handling any training and discipline that may be required." He let out a breath. "Things will change—not drastically, but they will. He has my full support and I would hope, all of yours as well." He moved to the open seat next to Esme and took it as the whole family tried to process what'd just happened.
It took about a minute but Jasper could feel the storm brewing in their youngest member before he ever erupted, so he was ready for it.
Edward shot up from his seat causing his chair to crash against the wall as Angela ducked and cried out in alarm. "There's no way! This is unacceptable!" He pointed an accusing finger at Carlisle. "You've been my leader my whole existence and now you step down?! What the hell for?!" He gripped the edge of the table and leveled his glare at Jasper who calmly stared back. "And you! You've been shoving your weight and supposed experience into our faces since the day you darkened our doorstep and now," he chuckled darkly, "well now, you've finally done it haven't you?! Now you've got the power you've always wanted! Well guess what?! I refuse to stand by and watch this happen!" He leaned down, getting right in Jasper's face. "I refuse," he growled lowly. "You hear? I'll fight you if I have to, but this-will-not-happen!" He punctuated each of his last words with a stiff poke to Jasper's chest.
"Edward…" Carlisle began but trailed off as Jasper, quick as lightning, grabbed Edward's arm, spun him around and had him pinned face first to the wall.
Edward tried not to make a sound—he really did—but the hold Jasper had on his twisted arm and the back of his neck was just too painful and he cried out, to his everlasting shame.
"You done makin' an ass of yourself boy? Or do ya need a bit more schoolin'? 'Cause I can oblige. Be more than happy to, truth be known." He tweaked Edward's arm just a bit more and the youngest vampire caved.
"Okay! Okay! Stop, please, it hurts!"
"You gonna behave and be respectful?"
Edward growled and Jasper tightened his hold.
"Yes! Yes, I will!" he whined. "Now please, let me go!"
"Hmm," Jasper said. "I know your Mama and Daddy taught ya the proper way to answer, but I guess I missed it when you were bein' all respectful just now. Mind repeatin' your answer, just so we have it straight?"
Edward whimpered and gasped. "Yes sir, I'll be respectful sir."
"Good," Jasper drawled. "Very good, 'cause I really hate havin' to repeat words or lessons. Makes me tetchy and believe me when I say, you don't wanna see me tetchy, ya hear?"
"Ye—yes sir," Edward answered and Jasper let him go. He straightened his cuffs and sat down while Edward stood there, trembling, with his head down.
"Right that chair boy and take a seat. We're not done here."
"Yes sir," Edward answered. With a quick glance at his 'parents' he retrieved his chair and sat, back straight and hands folded atop the table.
Jasper smirked. "Let's get started, shall we?"
~o0o~
Bella closed her eyes and savored the warmth and the sound of the steady heartbeat beneath her cheek as she lazed, half her body draped over that of her mate, their legs tangled together.
They were both nude, lounging after lovemaking on the massive bed in the room—the very posh room—Paul had booked for her birthday.
She smiled while thinking about the time they'd already spent there. It'd been pure heaven so far with them exploring the city during the day and making love—many times—after watching the sun set from the balcony.
She'd complained about the apparent cost at first but he'd merely kissed her to shut her up and told her it wasn't like he had college to spend it on any more anyway. So she'd smiled and pushed her worries away—all of them—determined to not ruin their time together. It was hard, but she did it, for both of them. He needed it. She needed it, and so here they were, wrapped in each other after another blissful encounter.
A knock at their door interrupted their peace and Paul patted her shoulder. "That's dinner baby. I'll get it. Grab a robe and join me?" he asked as he stood and shrugged into his own robe.
She stretched and nodded with a slow smile. "Sure," she said. "I'll be right out."
She rose from the bed and sauntered into the bathroom to clean up first and then walked out to see him lighting the candle in the middle of a beautifully set, linen draped table. He grinned and pulled out her chair. Taking her hand, he seated her with a flourish as she chuckled. "Madame," he said with a bow before giving her a soft kiss.
"Mmm," she breathed against his smiling lips. "Be careful Mr. Lahote. A girl could get used to this."
He straightened and went around to sit across from her, his eyes sparkling with passion and mirth. "Nothing wrong with that Shorty."
She grinned. "You're setting the bar awfully high. How are you ever going to beat this?" she asked as they both began to eat. It was a filet mignon, medium rare, fork tender and heavenly.
He took a sip of wine while peering over the rim of the glass, his lips quirked in a familiar smirk. "I'll think of something," he drawled and set the glass back down.
She took another bite and closed her eyes with a low moan as she chewed. "Oh god," she said. "This is almost better than sex."
She opened her eyes and grinned at the indignant look on his face. "Don't pout baby. I did say 'almost'."
He frowned and speared a glazed carrot. "Too close for comfort shorty. To think I could be outclassed by a piece of meat…"
She smirked. "It's a very elegant piece of meat honey. There's no shame in that."
He looked up through his lashes and a thrill shot through her; that burning gaze almost tangible. "I guess I'll just have to try harder then, won't I?" he murmured.
She picked up her glass and toasted him. "I look forward to it."
When she'd taken her last bite and laid her fork and knife aside, he gestured to a covered tray on the cart. "Dessert?" he asked and she shook her head.
"I couldn't," she protested with a chuckle as she watched him rise and walk around to her. Her breath caught and her heart took off when he knelt and took her hand. 'No way…' her thoughts screamed even as he held up a small, velvet box in his free hand.
He flipped the top back with his thumb and looked up at her as she covered her mouth. Tears filled her eyes and spilled over as he spoke. "Bella, you're everything to me and I hope—I hope I'm everything to you. According to the Spirits of my people, we're already married, but would you do me the honor of becoming my wife in every way?"
Her mind raced along with her heart. They were both so young! She'd just turned eighteen! Could she? Should she? "Oh god Paul," she whispered as her hand shook. She glanced down at the ring and reached out to trace it with a finger. It was the symbol for infinity, studded with diamonds with a solitaire in the middle. It was perfect and beautiful. "Yes," she whispered before meeting his gaze. "Yes," she repeated, her voice stronger now as the brightest smile she'd ever seen on his face slowly took hold.
He set the ring box on the table and cupped her face as a tear traced down his cheek. "I'll love you forever," he said before leaning in for a slow, sweet kiss.
He pulled away after moments and she rested her head against his as she echoed, "Forever."
Reaching down, he grasped her hand and proudly slipped the ring onto her finger.
Jacob Black ran a hand over his shower-damp hair as he stumbled down the hall to the kitchen. His jaw cracked with a huge yawn as he absently scratched at the taut, fuzz dusted skin just above the waist of his jeans. He was beat from too little sleep and waking up was a chore, to put it politely.
"Morning son," Billy Black greeted with a sidelong glance and smirk before taking a sip of coffee and going back to his paper.
Jacob ambled over to the stove and lifted the lid off a skillet. "Breakfast," he mumbled at the sight of scrambled eggs and bacon. "Awesome."
"There's bread in the toaster. Just put it down. Didn't want to make that ahead since I didn't know when you'd be up and around," Billy explained while turning a page.
"Yeah, cold, soggy toast sucks," Jake commented, drawing an absent "Mm hm" from his father.
He depressed the lever on the toaster and yawned again while pulling a cup from the cabinet. "Thanks by the way," he muttered while pouring some of the heady brew for himself. He held up the pot. "Need a refill?"
Billy glanced at his cup and held it out. "Sure," he said while eyeing his exhausted kid. "Rough night?" he asked while Jake filled his cup and set the pot back on the warmer.
The toast popped up and Jake plated it along with the eggs and bacon before taking a seat across from his Dad. "Nah, not really, just long and boring." He buttered his toast and began eating while Billy watched him closely.
"No new signs then?" he asked with a furrowed brow.
Jake swallowed and took a liberal sip of coffee. "Nope," he said before going back to his food.
Billy glanced out the window with a frown. Usually, no news would be very good news where cold ones were concerned, but he knew what was coming and that it would only be a matter of time; they all did, and so this tense holding pattern they were in was wearing on them all, especially the pack.
"It's like waiting for the other shoe to drop, ain't it?" Jake muttered between bites.
Billy turned back and took a sip of coffee before nodding. "It is," he agreed.
"Colin Littlesea and Brady Fuller phased," Jake commented while meeting his father's appalled gaze.
Billy closed his eyes and rubbed at his brow with a sigh. "They're so young," he said, his tone laced with sadness. He looked up at his son. "You all are."
Jake smirked bitterly and saluted with his cup. "Seems the Spirits don't give a shit about little things like age or life goals Pops."
"Jacob," Billy warned, his brows drawn.
Jake scowled. "What? It's the truth," he said as he finished off the last bite of bacon and rose to put his plate in the sink. He stood there a moment, just staring out the window and Billy shook his head.
"We don't see—can't see—the bigger picture son. Don't let yourself become bitter, Jake. You'll only hurt yourself and those you love by being so."
Jake turned and leaned against the counter. He glared at the floor a moment before speaking. "It's damned hard not to Dad. I mean, when do I get a say in my life, huh?" He looked up at his dad and hated the pain he saw in Billy's eyes, but the pent up anger inside him kept his mouth going. "I feel like all I've ever done is be there for other people, and now…" he scoffed and rubbed the back of his neck. "Now, I'll never escape this place."
Billy hung his head. "I'm sorry son. I'm sorry you've had to take care of me all these years…"
"Dad, no…just…no, that's not what I mean, not really."
Billy looked up and cocked a brow.
Jake sighed and a slight growl escaped him. "Okay, does part of me resent that? Yes." Billy nodded and Jake held up a hand. "Wait, hear me out," he insisted and Billy inclined his head. "I'm pissed Dad, but not at you. You can't help your health problems and disabilities, and so I'm happy to be able to help you. Who I'm pissed at are my sisters for thinking only of themselves and leaving the way they did." His voice wavered with tears as he continued. "All these years, I hoped and prayed they'd come back to us…" He slammed a hand on the edge of the counter as his expression hardened. "They left us, both of us, and haven't looked back since!" A muscle in his jaw twitched. "How could they do that Dad and still live with themselves?!"
"Your sisters just needed…" Billy began tiredly but Jake cut him off with a fierce scowl and a wave of his hand. This was an old argument between them…
"No! No more excuses Dad! I've heard them all and they're all bullshit! I won't listen to it anymore! What about what you needed? What I needed?! I was just a little kid!"
Billy shook his head. "They're my daughters, your sisters, our blood…"
He watched as his son's expression turned to stone. "Not anymore. It's been four years since we've heard from them and I know you've tried Dad, without success. We both have…"
"Jake…" Billy trailed off as his son straightened to his considerable height, shoulders squared and eyes steely as he spoke in a tone Billy hadn't heard since his own father, the previous Chief, had died decades before.
"Hear me now because this is the last I will speak of it: They are no longer my sisters; no longer my blood. They are dead to me and dead to our people."
He walked out of the kitchen and Billy stared out the window with a weary sigh. His son wasn't a Chief yet, but that was the voice of one, there was no denying it and his heart ached because he knew; there was no longer a place in the tribe for his daughters. There would be no reconciliation…ever.
~o0o~
Jacob parked his bike at the side of Sam's house and bounded up the steps. After a cursory knock on the screen, he opened it and walked in.
"What's up douchebag?" Quil greeted with a smirk as Embry snickered. They, as usual, were sitting at the huge dining table Sam had made, eating cookies. Jake rolled his eyes and snatched a cookie off Quil's plate before dropping into a chair.
"You should know, you're the nozzle," he quipped before stuffing the whole cookie in his mouth with a smile curving his lips.
Embry snickered again and Quil rolled his eyes.
"So, where's our fearless leader?" Jake asked while popping the top on a soda. He didn't feel guilty about eating and drinking at Sam's place because he knew the Council paid for all of it. It was one perk they were all grateful for. That, and the generous clothing allowance each one of them got every month. Jake wasn't too impressed though. He, and all the others figured it was the least the Council could do for the risks they took and the freedoms they sacrificed. 'Oh, and the hours of boredom and lost sleep too…can't forget those,' he thought sourly.
"He and Jared are training the newbies," Embry answered before letting out a deep belch with a grin.
"Guys, come on!" Emily protested from the kitchen.
"It was Embry!" Jake yelled while dodging a punch to his arm.
"Yeah, well, it was gross," she grumbled as she walked out with a platter of sandwiches.
They were grabbing at them before she could set them on the table. "Thanks Emily," Quil said through a mouthful and she wrinkled her nose.
"Ya know, just because you guys turn into giant dogs doesn't mean you need to behave like them at my table."
Jake chuckled and eyed his two best friends. "You can't blame this on the wolf Emily. They've always been this way."
She wiped her hands on a towel and glared at the culprits. "Mind your manners or I won't feed you here anymore."
They both slowed down and looked sheepish. Embry swallowed and wiped his mouth on a napkin. "Sorry Emily," he muttered before taking a drink.
She smiled and rolled her eyes. "Just clean up after yourselves," she said as she walked back into the kitchen. "I have enough to do just keeping you all fed and the kitchen clean."
Jake toyed with the tab on his soda can. "So, where are all the others?"
Embry shrugged. "Not here," he said before taking another bite.
"Rudy was on with you last night, right?" Quil asked and Jake nodded. "Well, he hasn't shown up here yet, so he's probably still sleeping. As for the Clearwaters, they should be here soon."
Jake nodded. "That should be interesting," he muttered.
"Whaddya mean?" Embry asked before popping the last bite of sandwich into his mouth.
Jake shrugged a shoulder. "Well, Rudy and Leah haven't been around each other since…"
He trailed off as the screen opened and a female voice interrupted. "I suppose it's too much to ask for you dickwads to mind your own business," she growled before dropping into a seat.
"Hi guys!" Seth greeted as he walked in with his ever-present grin. "Ooh, sandwiches!" he said while sitting next to his sister. He grabbed a paper plate from the stack and snagged two sandwiches and a bag of chips and happily began eating.
Leah shook her head and grabbed two sodas from the cooler before sitting back down and giving him one.
"So, I take it from the petty gossip and vacant look in your eyes, our mighty alpha is absent?" she sniped with a sneer as she popped the tab on her drink.
"Your talent of perception astounds me Leah, truly," Jake muttered before grabbing his own plate and sandwich.
She flipped him off.
"You'd enjoy it too much," he answered with a smirk just as Emily walked in. She froze.
"Oh, uh, hi Leah, Seth," she greeted weakly.
Seth gave her a wan smile and a wave. Leah ignored her completely while pulling her phone out to see the time. "I'll give him another ten minutes, then I'm leaving."
Jake rolled his eyes while the others looked everywhere but at the surly female shifter.
Emily sagged visibly. "Well, if anyone needs anything…" she motioned toward the kitchen and Jake smiled.
"We'll let ya know," he said. "Thanks."
She smiled gratefully and left the room. No one missed the curl of Leah's top lip.
"You should cut her some slack, especially now that you know what the whole imprint thing is like," Jake opined while meeting her hostile gaze dead on.
"Like I said, mind your own business," she snapped. "I do know how the whole imprint thing goes and she didn't have to take him from me! She had choices! She was the only one that did!" she hissed. "She could've settled for friendship, or treated him as a brother, but she didn't and I won't forgive or forget, so fuck off with your advice. It's not needed or wanted."
"Leah," Seth murmured while placing a hand on her arm. She yanked away from him.
"Don't," she warned and then looked him in the eye, her tone mellowing. "Just…don't little brother, okay?"
He sighed but then nodded and went back to his food, his happy grin gone for the moment.
The screen door spring whined in protest as Rudy walked in just then, looking about as tired as Jake felt. He paused for a beat when he saw Leah, but continued on to take the open seat next to Jake. He looked around at all the somber faces and scoffed. "Don't all talk at once guys, jesus." He got up, walked around Leah and grabbed a soda from the cooler before retaking his seat.
"Hey Rudy," Jake muttered.
"Jake," he returned before guzzling half his drink. He looked over at Leah's tense form and shook his head. "Look Leah, we have to work together. Let's not make it weird, okay?"
Her head shot up, her eyes wide. "What? Oh, uh, yeah, okay. Sounds good to me," she finished with a shrug as she looked back down to the soda she held clasped in both hands.
He sighed before looking at everyone else. "So I take it I'm not late for the meeting?"
Embry shook his head. "Nope. Hasn't even started. Sam's out with Jared and two newbies. Should be here any time though."
Rudy nodded.
"So, Paul and Bella?" Jake questioned.
Rudy grinned. "In Seattle for her birthday. Should be back tomorrow."
"Have you heard from them at all?" Jake asked with a smile.
"Not yet but that doesn't surprise me. Would you be on the phone if you had two nights in a posh hotel with a smokin' hot girlfriend?" The guys just stared at him, looking a bit dazed and he snorted. "Yeah, me either."
Leah scoffed and twisted her napkin while looking away. "Typical male," she muttered quietly.
"Wouldn't you like to know…" he drawled with an arched brow and a smirk. She looked at him, startled and her cheeks pinked up as she looked down at her lap. Seth was now looking at him with something resembling awe and he grinned and grabbed a plate and a sandwich. 'Game on sweetheart,' he thought as he ate while watching her fidget from the corner of his eye. 'Game on.'
The door opened again and Kim walked in while tucking her hair behind her ear. "Hi you guys. Is Jared here?"
They all waved in greeting and Jake shook his head. "Not yet. I think he's probably gonna stay on patrol with one of the newbies while Sam conducts the meeting. Sorry."
She sighed. "It's okay. I'll just go…hang out with Emily," she said with a nervous glance at Leah before leaving the room.
Leah scowled as she watched the timid girl leave. "Why does everyone feel the need to tip-toe around me all the time?"
Rudy smirked but wisely chose to stay quiet while Jake looked at her with his mouth hanging open. Embry found something fascinating to look at through the window and Quil was either very brave or very stupid as he spluttered, "You cannot be serious?"
Seth's eyes widened. He looked between Quil and his sister as her eyes narrowed at who, he was sure, was soon to be a dead man. "Of course I'm serious," she snarled. "Why is that so shocking?"
"B—because you're a first rate bitch! …to everyone…all the time! It doesn't exactly make you warm and cuddly, or even approachable, for that matter." he answered, his voice full of disbelief. How one person could be so purposely ignorant was a complete mystery to him and he didn't mind saying so.
"Pfft," she said before her gaze darted to Rudy who was quietly watching, his expression soft, his gaze steady. She mentally cursed the blush that heated her cheeks as she looked away in shame. She knew Quil had spoken the truth. She knew she was a bristly bitch and it had never bothered her…until now. Until she saw the patient, understanding look in Rudy's eyes. "Whatever," she muttered before taking a sip of soda.
Seth had been watching his sister carefully and he saw the look that passed between her and Rudy. He looked over and gave the other shifter a small smile and a nod which Rudy subtly returned. 'Yeah,' he thought in relief, 'my sister's gonna be okay.'
They all heard the back door in the kitchen open and close and Leah tensed immediately. Sam was there.
They heard him greet Emily with a kiss and then he walked into the dining room with Brady, a scrawny little teen and one of the newest pack members, trailing him. He motioned to an open seat. "Grab some food kid, you need it. We'll get started when you're through," he said while taking the seat at the head of the table and making his own plate. He looked up at Leah. "Toss me a soda, will ya?" he asked and her nostrils flared but she did it without a word. "Thanks," he muttered as his pack mates passed the drink to him which he popped and took a long pull from.
"Sorry I'm late," he grumbled before taking a healthy bite of a sandwich. He chewed and swallowed while glancing around at the various nods of acknowledgment.
"It was, uh, my fault," Brady volunteered. "I had some trouble with phasing back." He looked at Sam with a bit of hero worship in his eyes. "Alpha helped me though."
Jake's brows inched up and he glanced at Sam who ignored him and kept eating.
"That's great kid," Rudy said, breaking the awkward silence. "Glad he could help you. It can be a real bitch sometimes until you get used to it."
The kid chuckled. "You can say that again."
Sam finished off his sandwich and wiped his mouth on a napkin before sitting back with a sigh. "Okay," he said, getting their attention. "There isn't much to go over. I've printed out some schedules. They're stacked on the table by the front door so be sure to grab one on your way out. Don't forget it and don't lose it. Fail to show for a shift, and your ass will be mine. This is hard enough on all of us without any of us slacking. Clear?" They all nodded and he continued.
"Any of you who haven't been by the clinic for a health check, you have a week to get it done. The number is on your schedule. Call and get an appointment with Sue as soon as possible. After this week, punishments will be handed out if it's not done. No more excuses. This is an order from not just me but the Council who pays your bills."
Jacob snorted and Sam shot him a dark look but said nothing.
"So far, there've been no new scent trails picked up. We've been fortunate, but we also know it can't last. We know the red-headed female is still out there and she's vowed to come back, so stay alert. I can't stress this enough. She's lethal and she will kill you if given the chance. Just as a reminder, we're still working with the Cullens and they're allowed on our lands if they're in pursuit just as we're allowed on theirs." He met every eye, waiting for a nod before going to the next. "Good. Anyone have anything for me? Any questions?" Concerns?"
Leah leaned back in her seat. "Nope," she said and everyone seemed to agree so Sam nodded.
"Good, short and sweet. You're all free to go. Enjoy the rest of your day."
They all stood and cleaned up their places before heading out. Rudy was just stepping off the porch when he heard his name called. Not a big deal normally, but it was Leah, and that surprised him. He hid it though and turned back with a raised brow. "Yeah?"
She nodded over to the side of the porch and he walked over to join her. "What's up?"
She was looking down but raised her head when he spoke. She let out a breath. "This is really, really tough," she muttered and his brow furrowed as he waited her out. "Oh fuck it," she said while running a hand through her hair. "Look, I think—I think I'd like to get to know you," she met his gaze. "That is, if you want."
A slow smile curved his lips and her breath caught at the look in his eyes; eyes that she noticed—now that she was close enough—had small flecks of amber and green in the deep chocolate brown. They were beautiful. "I want," he said while taking her hand. He nodded toward his car. "Come on, let's get outta here."
She looked at him curiously for a beat then smiled and laced her fingers with his. "Sounds good, let's go."
~o0o~
Cool hands roamed up her sides, teasing just under the hem of her shirt as equally cool lips trailed light kisses on the tender flesh of her neck and jaw as he made his way back to her panting mouth.
"Edward," she breathed as her body arched, her hands tugging him ever closer, needing, seeking just that little bit more…
Maintaining a careful distance between them, his lips covered hers, effectively muffling her frustrated pleas. He smiled inwardly as her body relaxed back to the bed, all her focus now on their kiss as her fingers tugged at his hair.
She tried deepening the kiss, tried tempting him in by sucking and nipping at his lip but he pulled away. "No my love, we can't," he gently admonished causing her to groan and slap the bed as she looked away.
"Why not?" she finally questioned when she'd caught her breath and calmed her racing heart. She looked back at him and he shook his head while caressing the flushed apple of her cheek.
"You know why not," he murmured with a frown. "It's too dangerous and I won't risk you that way."
She sighed and sat up and he followed suit, hooking a crooked finger under her chin to guide her face back toward him. "Please don't be angry with me. I love you and would hate myself if I ever hurt you."
"But don't you see?" she asked while tracing the side of his face with her fingertips. "I trust you. You would never hurt me."
He looked down and shook his head. "Not purposely perhaps, but I could very easily lose myself and slip." He looked back at her, his eyes pleading her to understand. "One second is all it would take and you would be dead because of it. You're too precious to me to take such a chance. Do you understand?"
She dropped her hand to her lap with a sigh. "I do," she conceded. "But if not now, when?" She pinned him with a searching look and he ran a hand through his tousled hair.
"After…after your change, when you're more…durable," he finished with a crooked smirk.
She smiled and he took her hand, relieved that she wasn't angry. "Okay," she agreed. "But no backing out then mister," she said with a poke to his chest.
He chuckled. "Agreed."
She scooted to the side of the bed and he stood and helped her stand. "It's just as well. I hear Carlisle calling everyone for a family meeting."
"Convenient, that," she mumbled.
"Did you say something love? I didn't quite catch it," he said with a smirk as they left his room.
She laughed and slapped his bicep as she held his arm. 'Right," she said.
He wisely stayed silent until he seated her at the table next to him. It was then he noticed Carlisle standing off to the side as Jasper took the seat at the head. He concentrated on 'hearing' his sire but realized with confusion, he was masking his deeper thoughts by reciting medical texts. "Carlisle?" he questioned with a frown.
Carlisle held up a hand. "We wait for Emmett and Rosalie, Edward, then I'll explain."
He nodded and glanced at Angela who smiled and squeezed his hand.
Rosalie and Emmett walked in and took their seats and Carlisle moved to stand beside Jasper. "All right, now that we're all here, we can begin. First, I would ask that you hold any comments or questions until I've finished speaking." He met each gaze of his family with the exception of Jasper and they all gave a nod, although Edward, somewhat hesitantly.
"Thank you," Carlisle continued as he clasped his hands in front of himself. "What I'm about to do, I have given much thought to so please don't think I've made my decision lightly. I haven't, and I believe it to be in the best interests of our family." He looked around at them again to let that sink in. "I suppose you've all noticed the change in seating?" he questioned with a raised brow. They all nodded. "There's a very good reason for that. You see, I believe, due to the trials we now face, it's best that I step down as the leader of this coven," He smiled at Esme who squeezed his hand. "…as leader of this family," he amended.
Edward's eyes were wide as he stared at his sire. "You—you can't be serious! You're leaving?"
Carlisle was shaking his head before Edward finished. "Not at all. I wouldn't"—he glanced at Esme—"we wouldn't dream of doing such a thing. Put simply, I believe that, in times of hardship, Jasper is the superior leader and therefore I am relinquishing my position to him. Consequently, you are to listen to him and follow his direction. He will also be handling any training and discipline that may be required." He let out a breath. "Things will change—not drastically, but they will. He has my full support and I would hope, all of yours as well." He moved to the open seat next to Esme and took it as the whole family tried to process what'd just happened.
It took about a minute but Jasper could feel the storm brewing in their youngest member before he ever erupted, so he was ready for it.
Edward shot up from his seat causing his chair to crash against the wall as Angela ducked and cried out in alarm. "There's no way! This is unacceptable!" He pointed an accusing finger at Carlisle. "You've been my leader my whole existence and now you step down?! What the hell for?!" He gripped the edge of the table and leveled his glare at Jasper who calmly stared back. "And you! You've been shoving your weight and supposed experience into our faces since the day you darkened our doorstep and now," he chuckled darkly, "well now, you've finally done it haven't you?! Now you've got the power you've always wanted! Well guess what?! I refuse to stand by and watch this happen!" He leaned down, getting right in Jasper's face. "I refuse," he growled lowly. "You hear? I'll fight you if I have to, but this-will-not-happen!" He punctuated each of his last words with a stiff poke to Jasper's chest.
"Edward…" Carlisle began but trailed off as Jasper, quick as lightning, grabbed Edward's arm, spun him around and had him pinned face first to the wall.
Edward tried not to make a sound—he really did—but the hold Jasper had on his twisted arm and the back of his neck was just too painful and he cried out, to his everlasting shame.
"You done makin' an ass of yourself boy? Or do ya need a bit more schoolin'? 'Cause I can oblige. Be more than happy to, truth be known." He tweaked Edward's arm just a bit more and the youngest vampire caved.
"Okay! Okay! Stop, please, it hurts!"
"You gonna behave and be respectful?"
Edward growled and Jasper tightened his hold.
"Yes! Yes, I will!" he whined. "Now please, let me go!"
"Hmm," Jasper said. "I know your Mama and Daddy taught ya the proper way to answer, but I guess I missed it when you were bein' all respectful just now. Mind repeatin' your answer, just so we have it straight?"
Edward whimpered and gasped. "Yes sir, I'll be respectful sir."
"Good," Jasper drawled. "Very good, 'cause I really hate havin' to repeat words or lessons. Makes me tetchy and believe me when I say, you don't wanna see me tetchy, ya hear?"
"Ye—yes sir," Edward answered and Jasper let him go. He straightened his cuffs and sat down while Edward stood there, trembling, with his head down.
"Right that chair boy and take a seat. We're not done here."
"Yes sir," Edward answered. With a quick glance at his 'parents' he retrieved his chair and sat, back straight and hands folded atop the table.
Jasper smirked. "Let's get started, shall we?"
~o0o~
Bella closed her eyes and savored the warmth and the sound of the steady heartbeat beneath her cheek as she lazed, half her body draped over that of her mate, their legs tangled together.
They were both nude, lounging after lovemaking on the massive bed in the room—the very posh room—Paul had booked for her birthday.
She smiled while thinking about the time they'd already spent there. It'd been pure heaven so far with them exploring the city during the day and making love—many times—after watching the sun set from the balcony.
She'd complained about the apparent cost at first but he'd merely kissed her to shut her up and told her it wasn't like he had college to spend it on any more anyway. So she'd smiled and pushed her worries away—all of them—determined to not ruin their time together. It was hard, but she did it, for both of them. He needed it. She needed it, and so here they were, wrapped in each other after another blissful encounter.
A knock at their door interrupted their peace and Paul patted her shoulder. "That's dinner baby. I'll get it. Grab a robe and join me?" he asked as he stood and shrugged into his own robe.
She stretched and nodded with a slow smile. "Sure," she said. "I'll be right out."
She rose from the bed and sauntered into the bathroom to clean up first and then walked out to see him lighting the candle in the middle of a beautifully set, linen draped table. He grinned and pulled out her chair. Taking her hand, he seated her with a flourish as she chuckled. "Madame," he said with a bow before giving her a soft kiss.
"Mmm," she breathed against his smiling lips. "Be careful Mr. Lahote. A girl could get used to this."
He straightened and went around to sit across from her, his eyes sparkling with passion and mirth. "Nothing wrong with that Shorty."
She grinned. "You're setting the bar awfully high. How are you ever going to beat this?" she asked as they both began to eat. It was a filet mignon, medium rare, fork tender and heavenly.
He took a sip of wine while peering over the rim of the glass, his lips quirked in a familiar smirk. "I'll think of something," he drawled and set the glass back down.
She took another bite and closed her eyes with a low moan as she chewed. "Oh god," she said. "This is almost better than sex."
She opened her eyes and grinned at the indignant look on his face. "Don't pout baby. I did say 'almost'."
He frowned and speared a glazed carrot. "Too close for comfort shorty. To think I could be outclassed by a piece of meat…"
She smirked. "It's a very elegant piece of meat honey. There's no shame in that."
He looked up through his lashes and a thrill shot through her; that burning gaze almost tangible. "I guess I'll just have to try harder then, won't I?" he murmured.
She picked up her glass and toasted him. "I look forward to it."
When she'd taken her last bite and laid her fork and knife aside, he gestured to a covered tray on the cart. "Dessert?" he asked and she shook her head.
"I couldn't," she protested with a chuckle as she watched him rise and walk around to her. Her breath caught and her heart took off when he knelt and took her hand. 'No way…' her thoughts screamed even as he held up a small, velvet box in his free hand.
He flipped the top back with his thumb and looked up at her as she covered her mouth. Tears filled her eyes and spilled over as he spoke. "Bella, you're everything to me and I hope—I hope I'm everything to you. According to the Spirits of my people, we're already married, but would you do me the honor of becoming my wife in every way?"
Her mind raced along with her heart. They were both so young! She'd just turned eighteen! Could she? Should she? "Oh god Paul," she whispered as her hand shook. She glanced down at the ring and reached out to trace it with a finger. It was the symbol for infinity, studded with diamonds with a solitaire in the middle. It was perfect and beautiful. "Yes," she whispered before meeting his gaze. "Yes," she repeated, her voice stronger now as the brightest smile she'd ever seen on his face slowly took hold.
He set the ring box on the table and cupped her face as a tear traced down his cheek. "I'll love you forever," he said before leaning in for a slow, sweet kiss.
He pulled away after moments and she rested her head against his as she echoed, "Forever."
Reaching down, he grasped her hand and proudly slipped the ring onto her finger.
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.