Essence of You
by Momma2fan
Chapter 7
Embry jumped up from the couch and paced away from Bella. “No, no. Absolutely not.”
Bella stood up and got in his path. “Why not? I’m what she’s after anyway. It’s the best solution to get this over with.”
“No, Bella, it’s not.” Emily piped up. “Think about what could happen if it goes wrong. Think about what it would do to Paul if something were to happen to you.”
“Iz?” Paul walked in the door with the rest of the pack.
Bella spun around and ran to him, leaping into his arms. “I was so worried.”
“I’m fine,” he whispered in her ear. After kissing her, he placed her back on her feet and then glared at her. “Wanna tell me what you and Embry were talking about?”
Bella cringed at the look on his face, but needed to tell him. She wanted it over. “I think you should use me as bait and set a trap for Victoria.”
Paul had to take deep breaths in through his nose in order to remain calm and not phase in front of her. “No,” he growled and turned to walk out the door.
“Paul, wait!” Bella shouted after him and ran out the door on his heels. “Dammit, Paul, stop!”
“Why?” Paul flipped around on her. “Why would you even suggest doing something that could kill you? Don’t you know what would happen to me if something happened to you? Fuck, Iz!”
He turned back around and continued walking away from her. He was so angry, he was afraid he would phase and hurt her. Bella stayed put and watched him walk away. She wanted to chase him, but knew it was a bad idea. He may not have known it, but she had seen his wolf’s eyes instead of his own.
“He’ll be okay, Bella. Just let him calm down.” Quil wrapped his arm around her shoulders.
“I need to talk to Sam.”
Bella and Quil walked into the house and found the pack, plus imprints, sitting around the table.
“Bella, I appreciate—”
“Sam, this is my choice,” she interrupted. “You and I both know she is never going to stop until she gets what she wants...me. You’re Alpha, the final decision is up to you. I think if we have a plan in place, it will ease Paul’s worries. I understand the one rule is to protect imprints first, but you also have to protect the tribe and the people of Forks.” She sighed and sank into a chair, placing a hand on her aching chest. “Victoria wants me, so let’s make her think she got me.”
Sam looked around at his brothers and pack, their faces were all etched with the same worry he felt. “If, and it’s a big IF, we do this, you have to do everything I say. I won’t play with your life, Bella. I also won’t agree to this, even if we have a great plan, unless Paul does. You’re his imprint, Bella. If you die, so does he.”
“I understand.” She gasped at the pain in her chest. “What’s wrong with me?”
“It’s the pull of the imprint. You’re both suffering right now.” Sam looked at Jared, “We need to find him.”
They didn’t have to look far. Paul had walked into the woods and was sitting on the cliff the Quileutes dove from. He stared at the stars wondering why Taha Aki felt it necessary to pair him with such a selfless woman, someone willing to sacrifice herself for others. He loved Bella more than his own life and he was angry that she was so willing to leave him.
“Paul?” Jared walked up behind him, followed by Sam.
“We need you to come back. Bella is in pain.”
Paul snorted, “So am I.”
Sam sat down beside him. “Paul, Bella is the most selfless person I have ever met. She is graduating high school in a few days and wants to live her life. With you.”
“Then why in the hell is she in such a rush to die?”
Jared took his turn. “She’s not. She wouldn’t have suggested it if she didn’t think we...you...could protect her. She has that much confidence in you. She loves you, Paul.”
“Sam...I don’t know if I would be able to concentrate if she was in danger. What if I hurt her?”
Sam thought about it for a minute, “I could alpha order you. We could practice it around Bella.”
Paul sighed. “We only do this if there is a solid plan in place. I won’t risk her life.”
“Agreed.” The three of them stood and walked back to Sam and Emily’s.
Bella was laying on the porch with her head in Emily’s lap, while she ran her hands through Bella’s dark tresses.
“He just took off and didn’t even listen, Emily. What kind of relationship are we gonna have if he runs every time I piss him off?” Bella sniffed.
“You’re gonna have a great one, Bells.”
“Today’s been such an awesome day. Until the whole vamp issue, it was one of the best I’ve ever had.” Bella sat up, “I just had to go and fuck it up.”
“You didn’t, I did.” Paul stepped into her view and knelt down. “I’m sorry, Iz.”
Jacob, Embry and Quil came piling out the door, all with shocked looks on their faces. Embry broke first, “I’m sorry. Did I just hear Paul Lahote apologize to someone?”
Bella grinned while keeping her eyes on Paul. He returned her smile, “Fuck off, Embry.”
Grabbing Bella by the hand, he led her away from the group hollering a goodnight over his shoulder. Once they were at his truck, he spun her around to face him and cupped her cheeks.
“I’m so sorry, Iz. I shouldn’t have walked away from you, but the thought of you in danger...” he shook his head. “I can’t lose you, not when I just found you.”
“You’re not gonna lose me. I swear, I will follow everything that you guys decide to the letter.” She placed her hands on his chest, absorbing his warmth. Looking in his eyes, she smiled. “When I was with Edward, I never felt like I fit, like I didn’t belong. I don’t feel like that with you. I know that this, here, now, with you, is where I’m supposed to be.”
“I love you, Iz.”
“I love you, too. Now let’s go, I’m exhausted.”
****
Charlie walked up the stairs on the morning of his daughter’s graduation with a tray balanced in his hands. Gently nudging her door open with his foot, he saw his daughter still sleeping.
“Bells...rise and shine.”
She groaned and rolled over, slowly blinking her eyes open. “Morning, Daddy.”
“Happy graduation day, Bella.” He placed the tray over her lap, “Here is one of my special omelettes and Emily sent over some of her muffins. Kim dropped by with some fresh cut fruit and Jake brought your favorite coffee.”
“Wow.” Bella looked at the spread before her. “I’ll make sure to thank them. Thanks, Daddy.”
“You’re welcome, sweetheart.” Charlie turned to walk out the door, but turned back. “Is Paul coming by before the ceremony?”
She nodded, “He’s gonna ride over to the school with us.”
Charlie nodded and walked out the door. He hadn’t been thrilled in the beginning when Bella had started hanging out with Paul Lahote, the ladies man of LaPush. He had caught him in more compromising positions than a cop should have. When Bella had informed him they were dating and she was falling in love with him, his worry increased. The last relationship his daughter had been in didn’t end well and, as far as he was concerned, wasn’t healthy to begin with.
Paul, however, had proved him wrong. He was exactly who he’d always hoped his daughter would end up with. He could tell Paul was completely devoted to his daughter and worshipped the ground she walked on. He also didn’t consume all of her time like that Edwin had. Bella was not only spending time with her boyfriend, but also her friends and him. Charlie was grateful his daughter had a place for him in her new, happy life.
Bella finished her breakfast and carried everything down to the kitchen. She smiled when she saw her dad watching TV, the channel tuned to some sporting event like usual.
“Dad, did you call about the internet?”
Charlie blushed. “I’m sorry, Bells, I forgot. I’ll do it now.”
Bella grinned, “It’s okay, Dad. My classes don’t start for a while. Just make sure you do it.”
“I will.”
Bella jogged back up the stairs and after grabbing her toiletries, went to take her shower. Once she was done, she slid on a pair of silver, lace boy shorts and a matching bra. After applying her makeup and drying her hair, she put some loose curls in. When she was finally done, she walked back to her room and slipped her dress on. Looking in her full length mirror, she adjusted the straps on the lavender sundress and smoothed down the front. When she was satisfied, she turned away and reached for her shoes. Kim had refused to allow her to wear flats, so they compromised with a pair of wedge sandals.
Paul stood in her doorway and watched her move around her room. He smiled when she picked up the framed picture on the side of her bed. It was one of the two of them, taken without their knowledge, from the bonfire, right before he told her he loved her.
“Hey,” he walked over and wrapped his arms around her waist. “I love this picture.”
“Mmm, me too.” She set it back down and turned in his arms.
He leaned down and softly kissed her. “You look beautiful.”
Bella blushed and ducked her head. “Thanks.” Extricating herself, she walked over and picked up her cap and gown. “This ugly gold color will surely take care of that.”
Both of them laughed as they headed down the stairs. “Could be worse I suppose,” Paul chuckled.
At the bottom of the steps, Bella was almost knocked over by her mother.
“Oh, Bella, you’re graduating today. My baby isn’t a baby anymore.” Renee cried as she hugged her daughter.
“Mom, stop.” Bella patted her mom on the back.
Renee pulled away and sniffed. “I’m sorry,” she wiped her eyes and looked up. “You must be Paul.”
“Nice to meet you, Mrs. Dwyer.” Paul smiled at her.
“Oh, so polite and handsome too. Much better than that last boy, Bella.”
Bella blushed and lowered her head. Paul reached forward and squeezed her hand, knowing it still hurt her to hear about Cullen.
Charlie clapped his hands, “Alright, let’s get a move on.”
Bella smiled at her dad gratefully and followed him out the door, everyone else right behind her.
“Bells are you riding with me?” Charlie asked, already knowing the answer.
“Paul and I will meet you, Mom and Phil at school.”
Bella and Paul climbed into his truck and he drove off. “You okay, baby?”
“She’s going to drive me nuts. I’m glad this party tonight is for pack and imprints only. I think I’m gonna stay with you. Is that okay?”
“Sweetheart, you know I love it when you stay with me. Don’t you want to visit with your mom, though?” Paul placed his hand on her thigh.
“I will, but not tonight.” She covered his hand with hers as they pulled into the school lot.
Bella donned her gown after she stepped from the vehicle and followed the trickle of students headed for the football stadium, Paul’s hand clasped tightly in hers. Just as they reached the entrance, she heard her name being called. Spinning around to the sound, she noticed the entire pack plus Kim and Emily already there.
“What are you guys doing here?” She was picked up by Embry and spun around.
“We wouldn’t miss seeing you graduate, Bella.” Billy told her.
“Thanks, Billy.” She couldn’t help the tears that welled in her eyes. “I’ve gotta get over there. I’m sure I’ll hear you guys later.” Turning to Paul, “I love you.”
“I love you too, baby.” He placed her cap on her head as he kissed her lips. After giving her ass a swat when she walked away, which earned him a playful glare, he joined the rest of the pack in the stands.
Embry jumped up from the couch and paced away from Bella. “No, no. Absolutely not.”
Bella stood up and got in his path. “Why not? I’m what she’s after anyway. It’s the best solution to get this over with.”
“No, Bella, it’s not.” Emily piped up. “Think about what could happen if it goes wrong. Think about what it would do to Paul if something were to happen to you.”
“Iz?” Paul walked in the door with the rest of the pack.
Bella spun around and ran to him, leaping into his arms. “I was so worried.”
“I’m fine,” he whispered in her ear. After kissing her, he placed her back on her feet and then glared at her. “Wanna tell me what you and Embry were talking about?”
Bella cringed at the look on his face, but needed to tell him. She wanted it over. “I think you should use me as bait and set a trap for Victoria.”
Paul had to take deep breaths in through his nose in order to remain calm and not phase in front of her. “No,” he growled and turned to walk out the door.
“Paul, wait!” Bella shouted after him and ran out the door on his heels. “Dammit, Paul, stop!”
“Why?” Paul flipped around on her. “Why would you even suggest doing something that could kill you? Don’t you know what would happen to me if something happened to you? Fuck, Iz!”
He turned back around and continued walking away from her. He was so angry, he was afraid he would phase and hurt her. Bella stayed put and watched him walk away. She wanted to chase him, but knew it was a bad idea. He may not have known it, but she had seen his wolf’s eyes instead of his own.
“He’ll be okay, Bella. Just let him calm down.” Quil wrapped his arm around her shoulders.
“I need to talk to Sam.”
Bella and Quil walked into the house and found the pack, plus imprints, sitting around the table.
“Bella, I appreciate—”
“Sam, this is my choice,” she interrupted. “You and I both know she is never going to stop until she gets what she wants...me. You’re Alpha, the final decision is up to you. I think if we have a plan in place, it will ease Paul’s worries. I understand the one rule is to protect imprints first, but you also have to protect the tribe and the people of Forks.” She sighed and sank into a chair, placing a hand on her aching chest. “Victoria wants me, so let’s make her think she got me.”
Sam looked around at his brothers and pack, their faces were all etched with the same worry he felt. “If, and it’s a big IF, we do this, you have to do everything I say. I won’t play with your life, Bella. I also won’t agree to this, even if we have a great plan, unless Paul does. You’re his imprint, Bella. If you die, so does he.”
“I understand.” She gasped at the pain in her chest. “What’s wrong with me?”
“It’s the pull of the imprint. You’re both suffering right now.” Sam looked at Jared, “We need to find him.”
They didn’t have to look far. Paul had walked into the woods and was sitting on the cliff the Quileutes dove from. He stared at the stars wondering why Taha Aki felt it necessary to pair him with such a selfless woman, someone willing to sacrifice herself for others. He loved Bella more than his own life and he was angry that she was so willing to leave him.
“Paul?” Jared walked up behind him, followed by Sam.
“We need you to come back. Bella is in pain.”
Paul snorted, “So am I.”
Sam sat down beside him. “Paul, Bella is the most selfless person I have ever met. She is graduating high school in a few days and wants to live her life. With you.”
“Then why in the hell is she in such a rush to die?”
Jared took his turn. “She’s not. She wouldn’t have suggested it if she didn’t think we...you...could protect her. She has that much confidence in you. She loves you, Paul.”
“Sam...I don’t know if I would be able to concentrate if she was in danger. What if I hurt her?”
Sam thought about it for a minute, “I could alpha order you. We could practice it around Bella.”
Paul sighed. “We only do this if there is a solid plan in place. I won’t risk her life.”
“Agreed.” The three of them stood and walked back to Sam and Emily’s.
Bella was laying on the porch with her head in Emily’s lap, while she ran her hands through Bella’s dark tresses.
“He just took off and didn’t even listen, Emily. What kind of relationship are we gonna have if he runs every time I piss him off?” Bella sniffed.
“You’re gonna have a great one, Bells.”
“Today’s been such an awesome day. Until the whole vamp issue, it was one of the best I’ve ever had.” Bella sat up, “I just had to go and fuck it up.”
“You didn’t, I did.” Paul stepped into her view and knelt down. “I’m sorry, Iz.”
Jacob, Embry and Quil came piling out the door, all with shocked looks on their faces. Embry broke first, “I’m sorry. Did I just hear Paul Lahote apologize to someone?”
Bella grinned while keeping her eyes on Paul. He returned her smile, “Fuck off, Embry.”
Grabbing Bella by the hand, he led her away from the group hollering a goodnight over his shoulder. Once they were at his truck, he spun her around to face him and cupped her cheeks.
“I’m so sorry, Iz. I shouldn’t have walked away from you, but the thought of you in danger...” he shook his head. “I can’t lose you, not when I just found you.”
“You’re not gonna lose me. I swear, I will follow everything that you guys decide to the letter.” She placed her hands on his chest, absorbing his warmth. Looking in his eyes, she smiled. “When I was with Edward, I never felt like I fit, like I didn’t belong. I don’t feel like that with you. I know that this, here, now, with you, is where I’m supposed to be.”
“I love you, Iz.”
“I love you, too. Now let’s go, I’m exhausted.”
****
Charlie walked up the stairs on the morning of his daughter’s graduation with a tray balanced in his hands. Gently nudging her door open with his foot, he saw his daughter still sleeping.
“Bells...rise and shine.”
She groaned and rolled over, slowly blinking her eyes open. “Morning, Daddy.”
“Happy graduation day, Bella.” He placed the tray over her lap, “Here is one of my special omelettes and Emily sent over some of her muffins. Kim dropped by with some fresh cut fruit and Jake brought your favorite coffee.”
“Wow.” Bella looked at the spread before her. “I’ll make sure to thank them. Thanks, Daddy.”
“You’re welcome, sweetheart.” Charlie turned to walk out the door, but turned back. “Is Paul coming by before the ceremony?”
She nodded, “He’s gonna ride over to the school with us.”
Charlie nodded and walked out the door. He hadn’t been thrilled in the beginning when Bella had started hanging out with Paul Lahote, the ladies man of LaPush. He had caught him in more compromising positions than a cop should have. When Bella had informed him they were dating and she was falling in love with him, his worry increased. The last relationship his daughter had been in didn’t end well and, as far as he was concerned, wasn’t healthy to begin with.
Paul, however, had proved him wrong. He was exactly who he’d always hoped his daughter would end up with. He could tell Paul was completely devoted to his daughter and worshipped the ground she walked on. He also didn’t consume all of her time like that Edwin had. Bella was not only spending time with her boyfriend, but also her friends and him. Charlie was grateful his daughter had a place for him in her new, happy life.
Bella finished her breakfast and carried everything down to the kitchen. She smiled when she saw her dad watching TV, the channel tuned to some sporting event like usual.
“Dad, did you call about the internet?”
Charlie blushed. “I’m sorry, Bells, I forgot. I’ll do it now.”
Bella grinned, “It’s okay, Dad. My classes don’t start for a while. Just make sure you do it.”
“I will.”
Bella jogged back up the stairs and after grabbing her toiletries, went to take her shower. Once she was done, she slid on a pair of silver, lace boy shorts and a matching bra. After applying her makeup and drying her hair, she put some loose curls in. When she was finally done, she walked back to her room and slipped her dress on. Looking in her full length mirror, she adjusted the straps on the lavender sundress and smoothed down the front. When she was satisfied, she turned away and reached for her shoes. Kim had refused to allow her to wear flats, so they compromised with a pair of wedge sandals.
Paul stood in her doorway and watched her move around her room. He smiled when she picked up the framed picture on the side of her bed. It was one of the two of them, taken without their knowledge, from the bonfire, right before he told her he loved her.
“Hey,” he walked over and wrapped his arms around her waist. “I love this picture.”
“Mmm, me too.” She set it back down and turned in his arms.
He leaned down and softly kissed her. “You look beautiful.”
Bella blushed and ducked her head. “Thanks.” Extricating herself, she walked over and picked up her cap and gown. “This ugly gold color will surely take care of that.”
Both of them laughed as they headed down the stairs. “Could be worse I suppose,” Paul chuckled.
At the bottom of the steps, Bella was almost knocked over by her mother.
“Oh, Bella, you’re graduating today. My baby isn’t a baby anymore.” Renee cried as she hugged her daughter.
“Mom, stop.” Bella patted her mom on the back.
Renee pulled away and sniffed. “I’m sorry,” she wiped her eyes and looked up. “You must be Paul.”
“Nice to meet you, Mrs. Dwyer.” Paul smiled at her.
“Oh, so polite and handsome too. Much better than that last boy, Bella.”
Bella blushed and lowered her head. Paul reached forward and squeezed her hand, knowing it still hurt her to hear about Cullen.
Charlie clapped his hands, “Alright, let’s get a move on.”
Bella smiled at her dad gratefully and followed him out the door, everyone else right behind her.
“Bells are you riding with me?” Charlie asked, already knowing the answer.
“Paul and I will meet you, Mom and Phil at school.”
Bella and Paul climbed into his truck and he drove off. “You okay, baby?”
“She’s going to drive me nuts. I’m glad this party tonight is for pack and imprints only. I think I’m gonna stay with you. Is that okay?”
“Sweetheart, you know I love it when you stay with me. Don’t you want to visit with your mom, though?” Paul placed his hand on her thigh.
“I will, but not tonight.” She covered his hand with hers as they pulled into the school lot.
Bella donned her gown after she stepped from the vehicle and followed the trickle of students headed for the football stadium, Paul’s hand clasped tightly in hers. Just as they reached the entrance, she heard her name being called. Spinning around to the sound, she noticed the entire pack plus Kim and Emily already there.
“What are you guys doing here?” She was picked up by Embry and spun around.
“We wouldn’t miss seeing you graduate, Bella.” Billy told her.
“Thanks, Billy.” She couldn’t help the tears that welled in her eyes. “I’ve gotta get over there. I’m sure I’ll hear you guys later.” Turning to Paul, “I love you.”
“I love you too, baby.” He placed her cap on her head as he kissed her lips. After giving her ass a swat when she walked away, which earned him a playful glare, he joined the rest of the pack in the stands.