The Inauspicious Beginnings Of A Prince
by Laura Spudzmom
Chapter 33
There was now a strange buzz in his head, a buzz that was becoming more prominent by the second making any rational thought difficult. He was running on pure basic instinct at the moment, out of sheer necessity.
A voice from across the room caught his attention, and he turned his head to it, his eyes zeroing in on who he knew to be his mate.
"Jasper, are you all right?"
He stared at her for just a moment more, taking in her scent deeply, laced as it now was with her need, and he responded, pinning her to the wall and taking her as her scent demanded he do, all the while the buzz in his head becoming more unbearable by the second.
He fucked her to completion, coming inside her with a primal roar after he sensed her peak, all rational thought gone now with the unbearable pressure and sensation in his head. It was becoming painful now as he set his mate down gently and backed away, adjusting and fastening his clothes just as shattering pain overtook him.
He fell to the floor, clutching to his head as the pain brought with it so many images and feelings, flooding him with anger, happiness, sadness, longing… all associated with so many faces and experiences… years worth assailing him within seconds.
He was a child, living in the woods with a twin to protect and care for… "If one of us is ever caught, we won't tell about the other, right brother?" He smiled and wrapped his twin in his thin arms. "That's right brother. I would never endanger you like that, I love you too much…"
Their greatest fear happened and he was captured and drugged and couldn't get free to go to his brother… he rocked and cried out at the painful memories…
He was beaten for his scorn and rebellion by the man who claimed to be his father… the pain and shame of it gripping him strongly as he struggled on…
He was rescued from that place by a noble and proud King who wasn't ashamed of what they were… Who reveled in what they were and taught his new son the pride and nobility of their species, with love and patience…
On and on the memories battered him, the emotions of each one gripping him, tearing at him freshly as if he were reliving them anew…
Growing up… his decision to leave here for a time… the joy of finding his brother only to lose him to the very people who had torn them apart…
Meeting his beautiful mate, making love to her for the first time and marveling at the feeling of their connection…
His rage and pain at her rape… Oh gods! The pain of it!
He rocked where he knelt, sounds of agony and anguish leaving him as he gripped his head, unable to respond to the worry of his mate…
The attack of the wolves, knowing that he would die and trying to make peace with it…
Waking in a bed with his mate's loving attention… relief filling him at knowing that he would live…
The pain of profound loss when he learned of his uncle's death… His rage when he found out it was all due to the betrayal of his biological father…
It was too much! Much too much… The pain! Oh gods, the pain of it all!
And just when he thought he would go mad with it, it eased as the memories slowed, no longer battering his psyche… and relief came as his rocking slowly subsided and his cries quieted…
He felt a hand then, on his bowed head, and a very familiar, calm and reassuring voice… the voice of the vampire who loved him beyond measure and whom he loved just as fiercely in return… His father, Caius.
He slowly raised his head and met his father's worried gaze.
"Papa?"
Caius moved forward quickly, embracing his precious son in his arms as a laugh of joy and relief escaped him.
"Thank all the gods! I have you back…" He choked on emotion then as he closed his eyes and leaned his head against his son's. "…I have you back. My son, my precious Prince."
Jasper wrapped his arms around the only father he'd ever love or acknowledge and soaked up all the love and relief he could feel from him, sending it back in waves.
Bella stood off to the side, tears of relief tracing down her cheeks as she swiped at them with one hand, a small smile on her face. She had been so scared for Jasper, not knowing what was happening, but it seemed that he was back in full, with all of them now and she was happy for all involved. She knew that Caius and Athenadora had been heartsick that their son did not remember them, so this development was cause for celebration, to say the least.
Caius released his son and they both stood, Jasper holding out a hand to Bella which she took.
"Come son, you must see your mother now. She's been beside herself with worry."
Jasper nodded and wrapped an arm around Bella as they left the room.
As they walked, Caius glanced at his son. "You remember everything?"
Jasper frowned, the circumstances of their return to Volterra now at the forefront of his mind. "Yes, I do. Needless to say, after seeing my mother, I have an overdue visit to pay to the dungeon."
He looked at his father, his gaze intense, steady. "After the coronation I intend to travel back to Forks. There are some dogs that need to be taken care of and I will not delegate such a task. I wish to see to it personally."
Bella clutched to his arm tightly and he patted her hand as he watched his father process what he'd just said, finally inclining his head in understanding.
"And so you shall son, but do not think that I'll be letting you enact this vengeance on your own. I will be beside you through it all."
Bella glanced between the two. "Don't be so naïve to think that Dora and I will let you two go by yourselves, with no others to assist you! If that's what you think to do, then you're both out of your damn minds!"
She stopped in her tracks, eyes blazing with her emotions and hands on her hips as she glared at her mate and his father, her chin at a defiant angle.
Jasper stared at her for a beat, a smirk blooming on his lips as he glanced at his father, an equally infuriating smirk also on his face.
Caius chuckled. "Well son, it seems that your future Queen has spoken, as I'm sure mine will as well." He gestured with one hand up the hallway. "Shall we continue on to my personal tongue lashing and get it all over and done with?"
Jasper chuckled and grabbed Bella who gasped and smacked his shoulder as he nuzzled her neck and spun her around gently before following his father, still holding her close. "Yes, we shall Father, but I shudder to think that she'll give Bella advice on how she does things as my mate seems to be fine with asserting her authority already."
Bella scowled as the two males grinned at each other, before rolling her eyes. "You two are impossible and I hope and pray that Aro can deal with and temper the both of you."
They finally arrived at his rooms and Jasper placed Bella on her feet, the seriousness of seeing his mother again causing him to take a deep breath just as Caius opened the door and walked in, standing to the side for him to enter.
He walked in, his gaze moving over the group assembled there, finally coming to rest on his mother, whom he held a hand out to. "Mama?"
Her face crumpled with her emotions and she flew to him, wrapping him in her arms, her head against his chest.
He rested his cheek atop her head, murmuring to her. "Tutto va bene. Lo sto bene adesso."
("Everything is fine. I'm all right now.")
She clutched to him tightly. "Figlio mio, figlio mio prezioso. Grazie a tutti gli dei, ho indietro. Ero così paura…"
("My son, my precious son. Thank all the gods, I have you back. I was so afraid…")
She looked up at him, one hand cupping his cheek.
"Ti ricordi tutto?" ("You remember everything?")
He smiled sadly, the pain of some of the most recent memories filling his heart and mind. "Sì Mama , tutto."
("Yes Mama, everything.")
She rubbed his cheek. "Vorrei che tu potessi essere risparmiato il dolore di certi ricordi , mio figlio , ma sono felice che ti ricordi. I nostri ricordi , tutti i ricordi , ci rendono ciò che siamo . Basta non lasciare che macchiano il vostro spirito bello , mio figlio . Il mio bellissimo bambino ."
("I wish you could be spared the pain of certain memories, my s on, but I'm happy you remember. Our memories, all memories, make us who we are. Just do not let them taint your beautiful spirit, my son. My beautiful baby boy.")
He rolled his eyes at that last endearment. "Ai Mama, please…"
She laughed quietly at his reaction, patting his cheek as she coo'ed at him. "Sarai sempre il mio bambino ."
("You'll always be my baby boy.")
He shot his smirking father a pleading look and scowled as Caius chuckled. "All right Dora, enough torturing our son."
She pinched Jasper's cheek with a smirk before moving to sit with her husband who took her hand and patted it "Take heart son, soon your mother will have a grandchild to lavish with her attention and you will be a thing of the past."
Jasper sat next to Bella, pulling her close as he smirked at his father who was completely missing the glare his wife was now giving him. "He will never be a 'thing of the past' husband! How could you say such a thing?"
Jasper chuckled as his father looked at his mother with one brow raised before looking back at him. "Trust me son, when that baby arrives…"
He hissed as Dora pinched him. "Damn woman! That hurt."
He pouted and she hmph'ed in satisfaction. "You deserved it. You may be the love of my life, but my son is the light of my life. Don't you forget it."
He frowned, rubbing his injury. "I won't anytime soon, believe me."
Jasper's attention was caught away from the antics of his parents by the tentative approach of Esme. He stood, giving her a slight smile and she launched herself into his arms. "I'm so happy you're all right Jasper. I was so frightened for you."
She backed away, into the waiting arms of Garrett and he smiled at her again. "No need to worry now. I'm fine. Better than fine actually."
He glanced at his twin who had now come forward, his emotions now in turmoil at the remembered feelings of hurt and betrayal when Peter had embraced Carlisle as his father so easily.
Peter must have sensed this as he hung his head uttering only three words. "I'm sorry brother."
Jasper could feel the sincerity of his twins apology and, wanting nothing more than to heal the distance between them, he stepped forward and embraced him tightly.
"I forgive you brother. I love you too much not to and upon Cullen's final death, all will be in the past where it belongs."
Pete nodded and tightened his hold for a beat before backing away, meeting his twins eyes. "I should have trusted your instincts brother. I have no excuse except to say that I was overwhelmed, after being alone so long, by the prospect of a family. I never should have let that come between us though and I will always regret doing so."
Jasper shook his head. "Life is too precious to carry regret brother. Mistakes will always be made, but we learn the lessons they bring, and we let them go. That is my wish for you."
Peter smiled sadly. "You were always the wise one brother, and so, having learned my lesson, I will heed your advice."
Jasper chuckled, dragging his brother into another quick embrace. "Good, otherwise I'd have to kick your ass."
Pete smiled a genuine smile now and sat back down as Jasper looked to his Uncle Aro who sat patiently. He went to him and bowed deeply in formal greeting, right fist over his now still heart. He stood straight after holding the bow for a moment in respect and his uncle rose to meet him, embracing him warmly. "Nephew, it is good to have you back with us fully. We have all missed you."
Aro gave him a firm pat on the back before setting him away to look in his eyes and Jasper looked down.
"Uncle, I am sorry."
Aro furrowed his brow in confusion, still holding Jasper's arms at the biceps. "Whatever do you have to be sorry for Nephew?"
Jasper met his gaze. "For the loss of my uncle Marcus. I'm so sorry."
Aro embraced him again. "You've nothing to be sorry for. It wasn't your fault. The vampire ultimately responsible awaits punishment in the dungeon. Do not take that guilt upon your shoulders young one. Your father and I will not stand for it, do you hear?" He held him away, meeting his eyes again and Jasper nodded, still filled with sadness.
"Good. We cannot have a future King in such low spirits. Your uncle would be the first to take you to task for such a thing and you know it. Those responsible will pay. You, your father and I will see to it, shall we not?"
Aro was heartened to see a fierce look enter his nephew's eyes. "We shall uncle. I shall see the first suffer later today, with your permission."
He patted Jasper's arm and sat back down, crossing his legs as he answered. "You have it. I shall join you to observe. I may even participate. Demetri is now out looking for the psychic. It's only a matter of time until he finds her. Until then, we have plenty here to keep us busy, beginning with your coronation. Plans are already underway, and summons are being sent worldwide to all established covens."
Athenadora sighed in happiness. "It will be such a grand event such as this castle hasn't seen in thousands of years."
Aro smiled. "Indeed it shall Dora. Indeed it shall."
~o0o~
The flickering torchlight cast eerie shadows upon the long corridor of cells in the dank and musty dungeon as rats screeched and scurried for cover from the unexpected visitors.
The sound of a frightened and familiar, hated voice brought a silent snarl of revulsion to the Prince's lips as he made his way to the cell of Carlisle Cullen where he stopped and took in the sight, satisfaction filling him.
The vampire was a mess; filthy, disheveled, desperate and feral looking as he cowered and trembled in the corner. He looked completely mad and Jasper realized he must not have been fed since before leaving Forks as his darting eyes were completely black with thirst, sunken in and surrounded by deep purple shadows. He brought to mind some kind of wraith, especially with his clawed fingers that tapped and scratched nervously at the slime-ridden stones of his cell.
"Well Cullen, how does it feel to be held against your will, hm? Fairly disconcerting, is it not? It seems that we've come full circle, you and I, except this time, you are the helpless one, not I."
He motioned to the guards. "Chain him, standing, facing the wall."
"Yes my Prince."
They entered the cell and Carlisle whimpered. "What's going on? What are you going to do to me?" He struggled, rather feebly in Jasper's opinion and they had him secured in short order.
"Good, now go and fetch the whip."
"Yes my Prince."
The whip Jasper had requested was a development of his father's, made from the hide and claws of werewolves he had conquered and killed through the years. It was about the only thing, besides another vampire, that could harm a vampire, and it did the job well, eventually shredding any skin it contacted, especially when wielded in the hand of someone with skill in the art; and Caius had made certain his son was skillful.
The guard handed the whip handle first to his Prince, standing back in fascination as he had never seen his Prince wield such a tool before. He'd seen him spar with their best and he'd seen him fence with his father and knew that he wasn't one to be trifled with and so it was with morbid anticipation that he stood aside now, watching.
Jasper laid the whip on a nearby table, unbuttoning his finely tailored jacket which he removed and hung before rolling each sleeve of his silk shirt for comfort and ease of movement, all the while watching the pathetic, trembling creature that was chained to the wall, the tension in his every muscle evident as he jumped and twitched at each new noise in the room.
Caius stepped forward, his hand out. "Son, will you remove your pendant?"
Jasper shook his head. "No Father. I wish to wear it for this. I'll have the jewelers clean it of his filth afterward."
Caius inclined his head in understanding. His son was declaring his true family in his own way, and he couldn't be more proud of that fact or him. They met each other's eyes, perfect understanding between them. "Very well my son."
Jasper took up the whip and shook it out, inclining his head to his father. "Papa."
It was at this point that Carlisle became desperate. "Jasper… son, please don't do this! I am your father! Please son…"
Jasper swung the whip, the first strike landing true, biting through fabric and skin before tearing away some of both when he drew back for the second swing as Carlisle screamed.
"You will never be my father. You never earned that right, or a shred of my respect, you pathetic worm."
The whip landed again and again, reducing Carlisle to a weeping, begging mess by the time Jasper had enough and he turned to the guards. "Take him down and give him one bag of blood. Not enough to sate his thirst, but enough to heal him for my next visit."
A guard handed him a towel and he wiped some of the mess from his face and neck as he watched Cullen grab the bag with shaking hands, biting into it desperately, a moan escaping him as he drained it in seconds. He smirked. "Not so picky about the type of blood you drink now are you Cullen?"
Carlisle simply looked back at him, not uttering a word.
"While you're down here with so much free time on your hands, I want you to think about the many lives you screwed up through the years, especially that of my beloved uncle Marcus. I want you to know the pain you've caused and I want you to know, that before you find your final death, I intend to make sure you pay in flesh and pain for every slight."
He turned and left, not even waiting for his father and uncle. He didn't even grab his jacket. Really, he just wanted to shower and get all of the blood and venom off and try to come to grips with what had just taken place.
He'd been affected by it, more than he cared to admit and he needed to find himself again. He needed distance.
He needed… something, but he didn't know what… he wasn't sure what would ease the ache in his heart.
He'd never committed such a deliberate, brutal act before. He'd fought and killed, certainly, but that was against an opponent that could fight back and he found that even though he hated Carlisle Cullen, he was having a time coping with the fact that he'd just beaten the man bloody while he was defenseless and chained to a wall. The part that really bothered him at being troubled about the whole ordeal is that he knew that he would do it again and again, until he felt that it was Cullen's time to finally die. Would he lose himself in the process?
Only time would tell.
He entered his rooms and passed by everyone gathered there, including his now very worried looking mate.
'Jesus, didn't these people have anywhere else to gather?' he thought.
He entered his bathroom and slammed the door, making it clear to all that he needed time and space.
Out in the sitting room, everyone stared at each other in shock, wondering what had happened until Caius and Aro entered, looking grave.
Caius sat next to his wife with a sigh. "What happened to our son my love? Why is he so upset?"
"He just delivered the first round of punishment to Cullen with the whip. He's never done such a thing before and I believe he's deeply troubled about it, despite his hatred of the vampire. It's never an easy thing to do, but it's especially hard when it's the first time and at such a young age. He just needs some time and space to deal with it."
Bella stood. "I won't leave him to struggle alone. I'm going to him."
Caius studied her for a moment and considered his son's reaction to her in the past before giving her a slow nod.
"I believe that you are the only one he would accept comfort from at the moment Bella."
She smiled sadly with relief and left the room, closing the door quietly after herself.
Caius stood and spoke to everyone in general. "I think we all should leave and give them their space. They will come to us when they are ready."
With that, everyone rose and went their separate ways, the door closing softly after them.
~o0o~
Bella entered the steam-filled bathroom with only one thing on her mind; comforting her distraught mate. She could feel his anguish and she hated that he was so upset that he was projecting his pain.
Stripping down quickly, she stepped in behind him under the warm spray, her arms encircling his trim waist, her head resting against his back as he leaned against the wall.
"What can I do Jasper?"
He shook his head. "Nothing more than what you're doing now. Just be with me. Let me feel your love. That's all I need."
He turned in her embrace and pulled her close, just enjoying the feel of her love and having her here in his arms.
She reached over and grabbed the soap and a fluffy thing and began washing him gently, taking her time with it, showing him her love and care in this small way.
When she'd done his whole body, she reached for the shampoo and washed his hair, giving him small smiles and soft kisses every now and then before having him rinse.
When she was all through, he returned the favor, his hands lingering for moments on the gentle swell that could now be seen clearly, smiling into her eyes as he caressed it reverently. "My son" he whispered as he knelt and kissed her belly. The sweet gesture brought tears to her eyes and she cupped his cheek.
"Let's get out of here and go lay in bed. What do you say?"
He stood and nodded, still very quiet and this worried her, but she said nothing as she got out and wrapped herself in a towel.
When they were both dry, he took her hand and led her to their huge bed, pulling back the covers and helping her in. She laid back against the pillows and held out a hand to him, drawing him into a kiss as he laid out next to her, their lips brushing gently until she buried a hand in his damp hair, pulling him closer as she licked at and sucked in his bottom lip, drawing a groan from him.
Pushing against his shoulders, she guided him to his back and slowly straddled him, their eyes meeting as she took in his length with a moan of bliss and contentment. She leaned down, caressing his face with both hands as she spoke quietly. "I love you so much Jasper. So much that I ache with it at times."
She began to move on him then, watching as his eyes slid shut in pleasure for moments as he focused on the feelings, both physical and emotional. "Uhhhh… gods how I love you Isabella."
She rode him slowly, tilting and rolling her hips as she rose and fell, her slick, inner walls gripping his silky hard cock tightly as he sat up to kiss her, holding her close to his chest as he began to thrust up firmly into her, loving her slowly just as she made love to him in turn.
She rested her forehead on his shoulder as she began to whisper to him. "We will get through all of this just as we have everything else my love… together. You're not alone Jasper. Never alone."
She became alarmed as he began to cry quietly as she made love to him, his face tucked tightly against her neck.
"Oh god Bella… why does it hurt so much… bother me so much?"
She leaned back and kissed him softly as she continued loving him with her body. "Because you have such a capacity to love baby… and I think… I think part of you, deep down wanted to be loved by him, at least at some time."
He clutched her tightly as he whispered. "I did… I did."
She kissed him deeply then as their movements intensified, gasping against his open lips as she peaked and shattered around him as he filled her with a groan.
They laid back down together, staring into each other's eyes as she smiled gently at him, her fingers softly tracing his cheek and lips. "It's okay Jasper. It's okay to mourn him... It's okay."
His face crumpled and he pulled her to him as he did just that.
He mourned the loss of Carlisle Cullen for reasons that were a mystery to him.
Nevertheless… he mourned…
…and Bella loved him through it all.
There was now a strange buzz in his head, a buzz that was becoming more prominent by the second making any rational thought difficult. He was running on pure basic instinct at the moment, out of sheer necessity.
A voice from across the room caught his attention, and he turned his head to it, his eyes zeroing in on who he knew to be his mate.
"Jasper, are you all right?"
He stared at her for just a moment more, taking in her scent deeply, laced as it now was with her need, and he responded, pinning her to the wall and taking her as her scent demanded he do, all the while the buzz in his head becoming more unbearable by the second.
He fucked her to completion, coming inside her with a primal roar after he sensed her peak, all rational thought gone now with the unbearable pressure and sensation in his head. It was becoming painful now as he set his mate down gently and backed away, adjusting and fastening his clothes just as shattering pain overtook him.
He fell to the floor, clutching to his head as the pain brought with it so many images and feelings, flooding him with anger, happiness, sadness, longing… all associated with so many faces and experiences… years worth assailing him within seconds.
He was a child, living in the woods with a twin to protect and care for… "If one of us is ever caught, we won't tell about the other, right brother?" He smiled and wrapped his twin in his thin arms. "That's right brother. I would never endanger you like that, I love you too much…"
Their greatest fear happened and he was captured and drugged and couldn't get free to go to his brother… he rocked and cried out at the painful memories…
He was beaten for his scorn and rebellion by the man who claimed to be his father… the pain and shame of it gripping him strongly as he struggled on…
He was rescued from that place by a noble and proud King who wasn't ashamed of what they were… Who reveled in what they were and taught his new son the pride and nobility of their species, with love and patience…
On and on the memories battered him, the emotions of each one gripping him, tearing at him freshly as if he were reliving them anew…
Growing up… his decision to leave here for a time… the joy of finding his brother only to lose him to the very people who had torn them apart…
Meeting his beautiful mate, making love to her for the first time and marveling at the feeling of their connection…
His rage and pain at her rape… Oh gods! The pain of it!
He rocked where he knelt, sounds of agony and anguish leaving him as he gripped his head, unable to respond to the worry of his mate…
The attack of the wolves, knowing that he would die and trying to make peace with it…
Waking in a bed with his mate's loving attention… relief filling him at knowing that he would live…
The pain of profound loss when he learned of his uncle's death… His rage when he found out it was all due to the betrayal of his biological father…
It was too much! Much too much… The pain! Oh gods, the pain of it all!
And just when he thought he would go mad with it, it eased as the memories slowed, no longer battering his psyche… and relief came as his rocking slowly subsided and his cries quieted…
He felt a hand then, on his bowed head, and a very familiar, calm and reassuring voice… the voice of the vampire who loved him beyond measure and whom he loved just as fiercely in return… His father, Caius.
He slowly raised his head and met his father's worried gaze.
"Papa?"
Caius moved forward quickly, embracing his precious son in his arms as a laugh of joy and relief escaped him.
"Thank all the gods! I have you back…" He choked on emotion then as he closed his eyes and leaned his head against his son's. "…I have you back. My son, my precious Prince."
Jasper wrapped his arms around the only father he'd ever love or acknowledge and soaked up all the love and relief he could feel from him, sending it back in waves.
Bella stood off to the side, tears of relief tracing down her cheeks as she swiped at them with one hand, a small smile on her face. She had been so scared for Jasper, not knowing what was happening, but it seemed that he was back in full, with all of them now and she was happy for all involved. She knew that Caius and Athenadora had been heartsick that their son did not remember them, so this development was cause for celebration, to say the least.
Caius released his son and they both stood, Jasper holding out a hand to Bella which she took.
"Come son, you must see your mother now. She's been beside herself with worry."
Jasper nodded and wrapped an arm around Bella as they left the room.
As they walked, Caius glanced at his son. "You remember everything?"
Jasper frowned, the circumstances of their return to Volterra now at the forefront of his mind. "Yes, I do. Needless to say, after seeing my mother, I have an overdue visit to pay to the dungeon."
He looked at his father, his gaze intense, steady. "After the coronation I intend to travel back to Forks. There are some dogs that need to be taken care of and I will not delegate such a task. I wish to see to it personally."
Bella clutched to his arm tightly and he patted her hand as he watched his father process what he'd just said, finally inclining his head in understanding.
"And so you shall son, but do not think that I'll be letting you enact this vengeance on your own. I will be beside you through it all."
Bella glanced between the two. "Don't be so naïve to think that Dora and I will let you two go by yourselves, with no others to assist you! If that's what you think to do, then you're both out of your damn minds!"
She stopped in her tracks, eyes blazing with her emotions and hands on her hips as she glared at her mate and his father, her chin at a defiant angle.
Jasper stared at her for a beat, a smirk blooming on his lips as he glanced at his father, an equally infuriating smirk also on his face.
Caius chuckled. "Well son, it seems that your future Queen has spoken, as I'm sure mine will as well." He gestured with one hand up the hallway. "Shall we continue on to my personal tongue lashing and get it all over and done with?"
Jasper chuckled and grabbed Bella who gasped and smacked his shoulder as he nuzzled her neck and spun her around gently before following his father, still holding her close. "Yes, we shall Father, but I shudder to think that she'll give Bella advice on how she does things as my mate seems to be fine with asserting her authority already."
Bella scowled as the two males grinned at each other, before rolling her eyes. "You two are impossible and I hope and pray that Aro can deal with and temper the both of you."
They finally arrived at his rooms and Jasper placed Bella on her feet, the seriousness of seeing his mother again causing him to take a deep breath just as Caius opened the door and walked in, standing to the side for him to enter.
He walked in, his gaze moving over the group assembled there, finally coming to rest on his mother, whom he held a hand out to. "Mama?"
Her face crumpled with her emotions and she flew to him, wrapping him in her arms, her head against his chest.
He rested his cheek atop her head, murmuring to her. "Tutto va bene. Lo sto bene adesso."
("Everything is fine. I'm all right now.")
She clutched to him tightly. "Figlio mio, figlio mio prezioso. Grazie a tutti gli dei, ho indietro. Ero così paura…"
("My son, my precious son. Thank all the gods, I have you back. I was so afraid…")
She looked up at him, one hand cupping his cheek.
"Ti ricordi tutto?" ("You remember everything?")
He smiled sadly, the pain of some of the most recent memories filling his heart and mind. "Sì Mama , tutto."
("Yes Mama, everything.")
She rubbed his cheek. "Vorrei che tu potessi essere risparmiato il dolore di certi ricordi , mio figlio , ma sono felice che ti ricordi. I nostri ricordi , tutti i ricordi , ci rendono ciò che siamo . Basta non lasciare che macchiano il vostro spirito bello , mio figlio . Il mio bellissimo bambino ."
("I wish you could be spared the pain of certain memories, my s on, but I'm happy you remember. Our memories, all memories, make us who we are. Just do not let them taint your beautiful spirit, my son. My beautiful baby boy.")
He rolled his eyes at that last endearment. "Ai Mama, please…"
She laughed quietly at his reaction, patting his cheek as she coo'ed at him. "Sarai sempre il mio bambino ."
("You'll always be my baby boy.")
He shot his smirking father a pleading look and scowled as Caius chuckled. "All right Dora, enough torturing our son."
She pinched Jasper's cheek with a smirk before moving to sit with her husband who took her hand and patted it "Take heart son, soon your mother will have a grandchild to lavish with her attention and you will be a thing of the past."
Jasper sat next to Bella, pulling her close as he smirked at his father who was completely missing the glare his wife was now giving him. "He will never be a 'thing of the past' husband! How could you say such a thing?"
Jasper chuckled as his father looked at his mother with one brow raised before looking back at him. "Trust me son, when that baby arrives…"
He hissed as Dora pinched him. "Damn woman! That hurt."
He pouted and she hmph'ed in satisfaction. "You deserved it. You may be the love of my life, but my son is the light of my life. Don't you forget it."
He frowned, rubbing his injury. "I won't anytime soon, believe me."
Jasper's attention was caught away from the antics of his parents by the tentative approach of Esme. He stood, giving her a slight smile and she launched herself into his arms. "I'm so happy you're all right Jasper. I was so frightened for you."
She backed away, into the waiting arms of Garrett and he smiled at her again. "No need to worry now. I'm fine. Better than fine actually."
He glanced at his twin who had now come forward, his emotions now in turmoil at the remembered feelings of hurt and betrayal when Peter had embraced Carlisle as his father so easily.
Peter must have sensed this as he hung his head uttering only three words. "I'm sorry brother."
Jasper could feel the sincerity of his twins apology and, wanting nothing more than to heal the distance between them, he stepped forward and embraced him tightly.
"I forgive you brother. I love you too much not to and upon Cullen's final death, all will be in the past where it belongs."
Pete nodded and tightened his hold for a beat before backing away, meeting his twins eyes. "I should have trusted your instincts brother. I have no excuse except to say that I was overwhelmed, after being alone so long, by the prospect of a family. I never should have let that come between us though and I will always regret doing so."
Jasper shook his head. "Life is too precious to carry regret brother. Mistakes will always be made, but we learn the lessons they bring, and we let them go. That is my wish for you."
Peter smiled sadly. "You were always the wise one brother, and so, having learned my lesson, I will heed your advice."
Jasper chuckled, dragging his brother into another quick embrace. "Good, otherwise I'd have to kick your ass."
Pete smiled a genuine smile now and sat back down as Jasper looked to his Uncle Aro who sat patiently. He went to him and bowed deeply in formal greeting, right fist over his now still heart. He stood straight after holding the bow for a moment in respect and his uncle rose to meet him, embracing him warmly. "Nephew, it is good to have you back with us fully. We have all missed you."
Aro gave him a firm pat on the back before setting him away to look in his eyes and Jasper looked down.
"Uncle, I am sorry."
Aro furrowed his brow in confusion, still holding Jasper's arms at the biceps. "Whatever do you have to be sorry for Nephew?"
Jasper met his gaze. "For the loss of my uncle Marcus. I'm so sorry."
Aro embraced him again. "You've nothing to be sorry for. It wasn't your fault. The vampire ultimately responsible awaits punishment in the dungeon. Do not take that guilt upon your shoulders young one. Your father and I will not stand for it, do you hear?" He held him away, meeting his eyes again and Jasper nodded, still filled with sadness.
"Good. We cannot have a future King in such low spirits. Your uncle would be the first to take you to task for such a thing and you know it. Those responsible will pay. You, your father and I will see to it, shall we not?"
Aro was heartened to see a fierce look enter his nephew's eyes. "We shall uncle. I shall see the first suffer later today, with your permission."
He patted Jasper's arm and sat back down, crossing his legs as he answered. "You have it. I shall join you to observe. I may even participate. Demetri is now out looking for the psychic. It's only a matter of time until he finds her. Until then, we have plenty here to keep us busy, beginning with your coronation. Plans are already underway, and summons are being sent worldwide to all established covens."
Athenadora sighed in happiness. "It will be such a grand event such as this castle hasn't seen in thousands of years."
Aro smiled. "Indeed it shall Dora. Indeed it shall."
~o0o~
The flickering torchlight cast eerie shadows upon the long corridor of cells in the dank and musty dungeon as rats screeched and scurried for cover from the unexpected visitors.
The sound of a frightened and familiar, hated voice brought a silent snarl of revulsion to the Prince's lips as he made his way to the cell of Carlisle Cullen where he stopped and took in the sight, satisfaction filling him.
The vampire was a mess; filthy, disheveled, desperate and feral looking as he cowered and trembled in the corner. He looked completely mad and Jasper realized he must not have been fed since before leaving Forks as his darting eyes were completely black with thirst, sunken in and surrounded by deep purple shadows. He brought to mind some kind of wraith, especially with his clawed fingers that tapped and scratched nervously at the slime-ridden stones of his cell.
"Well Cullen, how does it feel to be held against your will, hm? Fairly disconcerting, is it not? It seems that we've come full circle, you and I, except this time, you are the helpless one, not I."
He motioned to the guards. "Chain him, standing, facing the wall."
"Yes my Prince."
They entered the cell and Carlisle whimpered. "What's going on? What are you going to do to me?" He struggled, rather feebly in Jasper's opinion and they had him secured in short order.
"Good, now go and fetch the whip."
"Yes my Prince."
The whip Jasper had requested was a development of his father's, made from the hide and claws of werewolves he had conquered and killed through the years. It was about the only thing, besides another vampire, that could harm a vampire, and it did the job well, eventually shredding any skin it contacted, especially when wielded in the hand of someone with skill in the art; and Caius had made certain his son was skillful.
The guard handed the whip handle first to his Prince, standing back in fascination as he had never seen his Prince wield such a tool before. He'd seen him spar with their best and he'd seen him fence with his father and knew that he wasn't one to be trifled with and so it was with morbid anticipation that he stood aside now, watching.
Jasper laid the whip on a nearby table, unbuttoning his finely tailored jacket which he removed and hung before rolling each sleeve of his silk shirt for comfort and ease of movement, all the while watching the pathetic, trembling creature that was chained to the wall, the tension in his every muscle evident as he jumped and twitched at each new noise in the room.
Caius stepped forward, his hand out. "Son, will you remove your pendant?"
Jasper shook his head. "No Father. I wish to wear it for this. I'll have the jewelers clean it of his filth afterward."
Caius inclined his head in understanding. His son was declaring his true family in his own way, and he couldn't be more proud of that fact or him. They met each other's eyes, perfect understanding between them. "Very well my son."
Jasper took up the whip and shook it out, inclining his head to his father. "Papa."
It was at this point that Carlisle became desperate. "Jasper… son, please don't do this! I am your father! Please son…"
Jasper swung the whip, the first strike landing true, biting through fabric and skin before tearing away some of both when he drew back for the second swing as Carlisle screamed.
"You will never be my father. You never earned that right, or a shred of my respect, you pathetic worm."
The whip landed again and again, reducing Carlisle to a weeping, begging mess by the time Jasper had enough and he turned to the guards. "Take him down and give him one bag of blood. Not enough to sate his thirst, but enough to heal him for my next visit."
A guard handed him a towel and he wiped some of the mess from his face and neck as he watched Cullen grab the bag with shaking hands, biting into it desperately, a moan escaping him as he drained it in seconds. He smirked. "Not so picky about the type of blood you drink now are you Cullen?"
Carlisle simply looked back at him, not uttering a word.
"While you're down here with so much free time on your hands, I want you to think about the many lives you screwed up through the years, especially that of my beloved uncle Marcus. I want you to know the pain you've caused and I want you to know, that before you find your final death, I intend to make sure you pay in flesh and pain for every slight."
He turned and left, not even waiting for his father and uncle. He didn't even grab his jacket. Really, he just wanted to shower and get all of the blood and venom off and try to come to grips with what had just taken place.
He'd been affected by it, more than he cared to admit and he needed to find himself again. He needed distance.
He needed… something, but he didn't know what… he wasn't sure what would ease the ache in his heart.
He'd never committed such a deliberate, brutal act before. He'd fought and killed, certainly, but that was against an opponent that could fight back and he found that even though he hated Carlisle Cullen, he was having a time coping with the fact that he'd just beaten the man bloody while he was defenseless and chained to a wall. The part that really bothered him at being troubled about the whole ordeal is that he knew that he would do it again and again, until he felt that it was Cullen's time to finally die. Would he lose himself in the process?
Only time would tell.
He entered his rooms and passed by everyone gathered there, including his now very worried looking mate.
'Jesus, didn't these people have anywhere else to gather?' he thought.
He entered his bathroom and slammed the door, making it clear to all that he needed time and space.
Out in the sitting room, everyone stared at each other in shock, wondering what had happened until Caius and Aro entered, looking grave.
Caius sat next to his wife with a sigh. "What happened to our son my love? Why is he so upset?"
"He just delivered the first round of punishment to Cullen with the whip. He's never done such a thing before and I believe he's deeply troubled about it, despite his hatred of the vampire. It's never an easy thing to do, but it's especially hard when it's the first time and at such a young age. He just needs some time and space to deal with it."
Bella stood. "I won't leave him to struggle alone. I'm going to him."
Caius studied her for a moment and considered his son's reaction to her in the past before giving her a slow nod.
"I believe that you are the only one he would accept comfort from at the moment Bella."
She smiled sadly with relief and left the room, closing the door quietly after herself.
Caius stood and spoke to everyone in general. "I think we all should leave and give them their space. They will come to us when they are ready."
With that, everyone rose and went their separate ways, the door closing softly after them.
~o0o~
Bella entered the steam-filled bathroom with only one thing on her mind; comforting her distraught mate. She could feel his anguish and she hated that he was so upset that he was projecting his pain.
Stripping down quickly, she stepped in behind him under the warm spray, her arms encircling his trim waist, her head resting against his back as he leaned against the wall.
"What can I do Jasper?"
He shook his head. "Nothing more than what you're doing now. Just be with me. Let me feel your love. That's all I need."
He turned in her embrace and pulled her close, just enjoying the feel of her love and having her here in his arms.
She reached over and grabbed the soap and a fluffy thing and began washing him gently, taking her time with it, showing him her love and care in this small way.
When she'd done his whole body, she reached for the shampoo and washed his hair, giving him small smiles and soft kisses every now and then before having him rinse.
When she was all through, he returned the favor, his hands lingering for moments on the gentle swell that could now be seen clearly, smiling into her eyes as he caressed it reverently. "My son" he whispered as he knelt and kissed her belly. The sweet gesture brought tears to her eyes and she cupped his cheek.
"Let's get out of here and go lay in bed. What do you say?"
He stood and nodded, still very quiet and this worried her, but she said nothing as she got out and wrapped herself in a towel.
When they were both dry, he took her hand and led her to their huge bed, pulling back the covers and helping her in. She laid back against the pillows and held out a hand to him, drawing him into a kiss as he laid out next to her, their lips brushing gently until she buried a hand in his damp hair, pulling him closer as she licked at and sucked in his bottom lip, drawing a groan from him.
Pushing against his shoulders, she guided him to his back and slowly straddled him, their eyes meeting as she took in his length with a moan of bliss and contentment. She leaned down, caressing his face with both hands as she spoke quietly. "I love you so much Jasper. So much that I ache with it at times."
She began to move on him then, watching as his eyes slid shut in pleasure for moments as he focused on the feelings, both physical and emotional. "Uhhhh… gods how I love you Isabella."
She rode him slowly, tilting and rolling her hips as she rose and fell, her slick, inner walls gripping his silky hard cock tightly as he sat up to kiss her, holding her close to his chest as he began to thrust up firmly into her, loving her slowly just as she made love to him in turn.
She rested her forehead on his shoulder as she began to whisper to him. "We will get through all of this just as we have everything else my love… together. You're not alone Jasper. Never alone."
She became alarmed as he began to cry quietly as she made love to him, his face tucked tightly against her neck.
"Oh god Bella… why does it hurt so much… bother me so much?"
She leaned back and kissed him softly as she continued loving him with her body. "Because you have such a capacity to love baby… and I think… I think part of you, deep down wanted to be loved by him, at least at some time."
He clutched her tightly as he whispered. "I did… I did."
She kissed him deeply then as their movements intensified, gasping against his open lips as she peaked and shattered around him as he filled her with a groan.
They laid back down together, staring into each other's eyes as she smiled gently at him, her fingers softly tracing his cheek and lips. "It's okay Jasper. It's okay to mourn him... It's okay."
His face crumpled and he pulled her to him as he did just that.
He mourned the loss of Carlisle Cullen for reasons that were a mystery to him.
Nevertheless… he mourned…
…and Bella loved him through it all.
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.