Life With An English Noble
By: Wizardtho
Chapter 13:
...BPOV...
Two hours later, we had talked to Alice and Jasper a bit more, showered together after making love under the water, then gotten dressed to see everyone. I found out that Jasper, Alice and Peter had taken the other first floor bedroom and shared it with Dom while he was here. Jake and Embry had taken the two front bedrooms upstairs that shared a shower, and Leah had taken the upstairs bedroom that shared a bathroom with the studio.
We found them all upstairs in the game room, actually being civil to one another. I smiled widely as I entered. “Hey, guys. Sorry you had to come out like this, but it's soooo good to see you.”
I hugged them all tightly, Leah letting a breath out in relief when it was her turn, “God, you look so much better than when we got here. Never do that to us again, Girly, you hear me?”
I hugged her to me again, saying, “It's alright now, Lee-Lee. We've talked things over and gone through the healing process. We're one again.”
She looked into my eyes as she asked, “You sure?”
I grinned, “Absolutely.”
She smiled, then Jasper asked, “You up for a game, Sugar?”
I shook my head, “Not quite yet. I still need to lean on Caleb quite a bit, because of how long I was immobile. My legs are still weak, plus I need a bunch more food put back into my system. I should be feeling 100% in no time, though, so can I have a rain check?”
He nodded with a smile, “Any time, you just let me know. Jake and I have actually been about even so far. He's a sneaky shot.”
I chuckled, nudging Jake, “Don't go showing off and letting him see all of your trick shots, Jake. I won't have a chance in hell against him if you do.”
After sitting at the bar for an hour while watching the game of team 8-ball between Jasper, Leah, Embry, and Jake, along with the game of Cricket on the dartboard between Alice, Peter, and Caleb, everyone was winding down their matches.
I smiled when Alice got impatient, then laughed when Jasper tried to find out what was up. “Jazz? Ali won't stop, because she wants me to hurry up and say what I had planned to.”
Caleb chuckled, then I said, “Alright, Ali. You can lead the way. It's time to show you the paintings.”
Jake gasped slightly, asking, “Umm, Bells? Are you sure?”
I nodded, “It's time, Jake.”
He gave me his worried look, then said, “If you're ready, then we'll go phase and update the pack, to give you guys some time. I think we could do with a run through the property, if you don't mind, Caleb.”
He smiled, telling them that as long as they stayed inside the gate, they could phase anywhere and be safe from prying eyes.
After Jake gave me a big hug as he told me to whistle if I needed him, he, Leah, and Embry all took the spiral stairs near the game room down to the yard. Alice led the way to the studio, but stopped about three feet from the door to look at me. I nodded, explaining, “You'll want to see what's in the two large crates near the sun deck, as well as the collages on the walls. Those are all mine, and what I painted before I got together with Caleb.”
She slowly stepped into the room with Jasper next to her, Peter following right behind them.
Caleb held me close as we waited, then I heard three gasps coming from inside the studio. It was several long tension-filled minutes, but then I heard Ali start sobbing, so I whispered, “It's time. I need to tell them everything.”
Caleb nodded as he kissed my shoulder, whispering, “I'm right here, Isabella, to help you through it. You aren't alone anymore.”
That thought made most of the tension melt right out of me, causing me to whisper after a kiss over his heart, “I know, My Love... and I'm more grateful for that than you know.”
The next hour and a half was filled with telling them what all had transpired after they left. When I was done speaking, all three of them had onyx eyes, truly looking as if they wanted to go on a killing spree. I didn't understand why they had that look, but needed a break before they tried to tell their side.
Caleb said right away as he hugged me close, “There are trees that could use some rearranging on the property. Just inform Isa's wolf family before you start, please.”
Without a word, the three of them stood to kiss the top of my head, then dashed out the family room doors.
Caleb decided to make me a large meal while I rested on the couch, coming over several times to brush his hand against my cheek, before kissing me tenderly and going back to the kitchen. I was just dozing lightly when I felt a cool hand that wasn't Caleb's cup my cheek. I instinctively inhaled, then smiled slightly as I whispered, “Jazz.”
I blinked my eyes open to see he was smiling sadly down at me. “I swear we never wanted to leave you. We love you, and have been going crazy not knowing how you were doing.”
I shook my head as I said, “Not yet, please. I need to eat before you tell me any more, or I won't be able to.”
He nodded, sat down on the floor in front of me, held my hand, and whispered, “You rest now, Sugar. Caleb will let me know when your food is ready.”
Jasper stroked my hand softly as I felt a fuzzy blanket of peace settle over me, then soon I was dozing again.
When I woke, it was to a soft kiss to my lips. I hummed at the tingle that accompanied it, whispering sleepily, “I love the way you wake me. I think I'll miss that after I'm turned.”
I opened my eyes to see the blinding smile on my mate's face as he said, “I can still give you the same sensation after your turning, Little Dove, it just won't be to wake you.”
He leaned in, slyly brushing his thumb across my marked nipple as he nipped my bottom lip, the sensation causing me to gasp as my nipples pebbled. He hummed, then said, “God, I love how you react to me. Your dinner is ready, Sweets. I made enough for your pack family, too.”
I groaned, kissed his lips, then said, “I'd better get out there before it's all gone, then... especially if they just got back from their run.”
He chuckled, picking me up bridal-style, then set me down in my chair at the nook in front of a large plate. Peter, Jasper, and Alice all turned the bar stools around from the kitchen so that they could join in on the conversation, then I reconnected with my pack family while we ate. It was so good to see them, but I was worried about how Sam and the rest would take to Caleb, especially now that this happened. I hesitantly asked Jake when he was almost done eating, “Jake? How was Sam when you phased?”
He smiled at me as he patted my hand. “He was good. He's glad you're alright now. I explained to him what you wrote to me, so he isn't upset with your man. He actually said he'd have done the same thing in that circumstance, and I have to agree, now that I know what the issue was.”
Embry and Leah both nodded in agreement, then I asked, “I know I'm not up to traveling yet, but does he still want us to come out?”
Jake looked at me like I was insane, “Of course he does, Crazy Bells. More now than he did before, I think. Jasper even explained to me their side, and Sam said he'd tweak the agreement if the three of them are gonna tag along.”
I looked at Jasper, but he said, “We can't risk being seen in Forks, Isa, after being gone for so long. We'd love to go with you, but it's too risky with us not aging.”
I thought for a second, then a plan formed in my mind. I smiled widely, looking at Jake. “Have them tweak the treaty, because even though they can't go to Forks, I'll send them ahead with our things to Colorado. You know by now that Peter only drinks donated blood, so that won't be an issue, will it?”
Jake grinned while shaking his head, “Already got the okay from Sam. He wants to hear from you himself, though, so you can ask him to redo the treaty when you call.”
I nodded, then looked at Jasper as he said, “It's perfect, Isa. We can get the house opened up while you're in Forks, then you won't have to worry about it when you meet us there. We'd just need directions, the things you want us to take, and what you want done as far as repairs, if anything.”
I hugged him to me, sending him my thanks as he kissed my temple, “It's the least we can do, Sugar, and we don't want to be away from you any more.”
...One Week Later...
The last week has been full of ups, but only one down. I was furious when I found out the lengths Edward had gone to. The others wouldn't believe it, but Jasper and Alice started believing soon after they left, that Edward had only used me to conquer the blood lust for his singer.
Carlisle had understood that Edward was the one to growl first the night of my birthday, trying once more to talk him into changing me. He told Carlisle he would speak to me about it, but he never came to me at all. He left their house, coming back awhile later, only to explain that I wished not to have contact with any of them again. He said I realised the danger of having them in my life, and no longer wanted anything to do with them.
Jasper, having felt my feelings, didn't believe Edward. He told Alice, who then had a vision of me crying. They both tried to dissuade everyone when Edward insisted they move immediately. His excuse was a crock of shit, if you ask me… to let me get on with a vampire-free life, as was my wish.
Anyway, Alice and Jasper left soon after that episode, when it was clear that everyone else was believing Edward. They went directly to Peter's, then Alice started searching for any small decision related to me, to see if I wanted contact from them. They didn't want to risk showing themselves to me if I truly wanted nothing more to do with vampires... so Alice searched, searched again, then searched some more. She was getting to the point of giving up and going back to Forks when Peter texted Caleb.
I knew, after I heard their side of the story, that I would end up confronting Edward. The thing was, though, I didn't plan on doing it as human.
I had called Sam to warn him to keep his nose in the air for Edward, then to feed him a lie that I was living back in Phoenix again, working for a publishing house. He was to do this, all while making sure his thoughts matched his spoken words.
Hopefully, if Edward bought it, he would think I was living out a lame human existence, then feed the lie to the rest of the Cullens. Afterward, Sam would call me. I would then have Caleb call Carlisle to ask when a good time to visit would be, saying he had finally found his mate, and wanted Carlisle to meet her.
Jasper and Peter both liked the plan when Alice agreed that everything up to getting there was set, but she couldn't tell me how it would go once Edward saw me on Caleb's arm. I knew I would be winging it from there, hence no sight from Alice concerning it, so Caleb agreed that this was the way to go.
We had set a tentative date for my change; we’re just all hoping that Sam didn't run into Edward before then.
Caleb and I arrived in Forks, as scheduled, with everything going perfectly. Jake and Embry both slapped him on the back before shaking his hand, then Sam pulled me into a monster of a hug.
Caleb and I did end up taking Sam and Emily shopping for the baby, remarkably ending with me managing to keep it within the limits of their small house. I was just so happy that they were finally getting their wish for a child, that I couldn't help but want to buy tons of baby gadgets for them. Caleb just smiled and went along with me, but I could tell he was sad about something.
Later that night when we were curled up in bed, I asked him, “What were you thinking about today? You seemed sad.”
He rolled so he was hovering over me, then slid down to kiss all over my flat stomach. “I can't give you a child, Isabella. I saw the joy on your face today; I was sad that it couldn't be our child you were so happy over.”
I ran my fingers through his hair, then whispered, “I never wanted to be a mother before I met you, because I could never picture having someone's child. With you, I know that's not an option, but there are many children out there that need homes. I think once my thirst is under control, I'd like to talk about adopting, but I don't want to get ahead of myself.”
He beamed up at me, asking hopefully, “You would want that? To raise a child with me?”
I grinned, then he nodded, saying as he kissed his way up to hover over me, “I think I would like that very much, Isabella. Once your thirst is under control, I will make sure to bring up the topic again.”
The rest of our week in Forks was amazing. On the last day there, Sam came to me with a huge smile. “He's good with the young ones, Bella. I think the techniques he taught them will help with their tempers. If you still want us to come out, we can do what you suggested, placing scraps of the imprints' clothing into little bags. If all goes well and no one is affected, Jake, Leah, Paul, Rebecca, Jared, Kim, Emily and myself would like to come out. Remember, if you have to be changed in an emergency before then, have someone call to let us know. You know how I worry about you.”
I smiled, hugging him tightly, “I know, Sammy. I love you guys, too. We'll be careful, and we'll keep in touch. I don't know if Caleb's going to want to make Colorado a permanent home yet, so we may only stay there until after your visit. I told him we'd try the Carolina castle if he didn't like Colorado.”
We said our goodbyes soon after, then were on our way to the vacation home Renee and Phil had left me.
When we finally arrived the next morning, Jasper was shirtless, working on repointing some of the stone pillars. I could see many spots on his chest and arms that glittered brighter than the rest, so I knew those were his scars from the Southern Wars, but it made him look almost like an armored god to me. An instant shot of lust snaked through me at the sight, causing Caleb to hum, “Welcome home, Little Minx. Do you see something to your liking?”
I nodded as I said softly, “Armored god at 11 o'clock.”
Jasper whipped his head up, so I must have said that louder than I thought, but he just chuckled and gave me a devilish smirk. Caleb grinned, kissing my temple, then parked in front of the house to unload our bags.
I was surprised when I caught Jasper looking at me, his eyes almost black with desire, along with the slight nod that Caleb gave him as we walked up the front steps. Jasper pulled me to him by my hips, then ran his nose from my shoulder to my ear as he whispered, “Armored God, huh, Sugar? I don't know about that, but I do know that you are the most irresistible little lady I've ever laid eyes on. I want you, Isabella... Ali and I both want so much to worship every beautiful inch of you... all you have to do is say the word.”
He placed a kiss on the soft spot behind my ear, then backed up enough to let go of one of my hips, shaking Caleb's hand happily, “We missed you both, but found ways to keep occupied. How'd the trip go?”
I almost whimpered in need as Jasper released my other hip, not fully letting go until he could brush his thumb teasingly against the soft skin just under the low waist of my jeans.
Caleb and I spent the next month settling into the house. There were several times that I heard Alice and Jasper having heated sex. A couple of those times, I even heard Peter joining them, causing me to feel inexplicably jealous. The jealousy mounted when I caught Alice and Peter having passionate sex in the kitchen in the middle of the night, while Jasper had his cock being sucked hungrily by Alice. I had a hard time choking down the jealousy after that, especially since neither of them had expressed an interest in an invitation from us again after we arrived home.
Our wolf family came to visit a few weeks before my birthday, which was when we were scheduling my transformation for. Jake pulled me aside one night, looking deep in my eyes, then said softly, “Spill it, Bells. No one is in hearing range. What's going on with you?”
I shook my head as the tears filled my eyes, wiped at them angrily, then said, “It's nothing, Jake. I was just hoping something, but then I saw something that made me realise it would never happen. Just... let it go, please.”
He shook his head, made me look him in the eyes, then whispered, “I've seen the looks, Bells... the ones you give Alice and Jasper… the ones you give Peter, when you think no one is looking. This has something to do with them, doesn't it?”
I nodded reluctantly, then said sadly, “When we first got here from visiting Forks, Jazz made it sound like he and Ali really wanted to be with us... then for the next month, I hear them going at it, with Peter added to the mix a few times. Finally, the other night, I woke in the middle of the night while Caleb was hunting. I went down to get a drink, only to see Ali, Jazz and Peter in a heated tryst in the kitchen. I was jealous... of Peter. He got to have something I wanted. It made me realise they no longer wanted to be with us, since they now had him and hadn't hinted again about wanting an invitation. I swore to myself before that night, that the next time they insinuated about wanting to be with us, that I would give that invitation to them. Caleb and I talked about it a lot. I guess I just don't understand. Half the time I want to squash the jealousy, because there's really no reason for it, but the other half of the time, the jealousy feels like it's suffocating me.”
Jake smiled as he cupped my cheek, then hugged me while whispering, “Don't worry, Baby Bells. It'll all work out. I can tell you right now, though, that all three of them... Jasper, Alice, and Peter... look at you like you're Aphrodite reincarnate. Just don't give up hope, if that's what you want.”
...BPOV...
Two hours later, we had talked to Alice and Jasper a bit more, showered together after making love under the water, then gotten dressed to see everyone. I found out that Jasper, Alice and Peter had taken the other first floor bedroom and shared it with Dom while he was here. Jake and Embry had taken the two front bedrooms upstairs that shared a shower, and Leah had taken the upstairs bedroom that shared a bathroom with the studio.
We found them all upstairs in the game room, actually being civil to one another. I smiled widely as I entered. “Hey, guys. Sorry you had to come out like this, but it's soooo good to see you.”
I hugged them all tightly, Leah letting a breath out in relief when it was her turn, “God, you look so much better than when we got here. Never do that to us again, Girly, you hear me?”
I hugged her to me again, saying, “It's alright now, Lee-Lee. We've talked things over and gone through the healing process. We're one again.”
She looked into my eyes as she asked, “You sure?”
I grinned, “Absolutely.”
She smiled, then Jasper asked, “You up for a game, Sugar?”
I shook my head, “Not quite yet. I still need to lean on Caleb quite a bit, because of how long I was immobile. My legs are still weak, plus I need a bunch more food put back into my system. I should be feeling 100% in no time, though, so can I have a rain check?”
He nodded with a smile, “Any time, you just let me know. Jake and I have actually been about even so far. He's a sneaky shot.”
I chuckled, nudging Jake, “Don't go showing off and letting him see all of your trick shots, Jake. I won't have a chance in hell against him if you do.”
After sitting at the bar for an hour while watching the game of team 8-ball between Jasper, Leah, Embry, and Jake, along with the game of Cricket on the dartboard between Alice, Peter, and Caleb, everyone was winding down their matches.
I smiled when Alice got impatient, then laughed when Jasper tried to find out what was up. “Jazz? Ali won't stop, because she wants me to hurry up and say what I had planned to.”
Caleb chuckled, then I said, “Alright, Ali. You can lead the way. It's time to show you the paintings.”
Jake gasped slightly, asking, “Umm, Bells? Are you sure?”
I nodded, “It's time, Jake.”
He gave me his worried look, then said, “If you're ready, then we'll go phase and update the pack, to give you guys some time. I think we could do with a run through the property, if you don't mind, Caleb.”
He smiled, telling them that as long as they stayed inside the gate, they could phase anywhere and be safe from prying eyes.
After Jake gave me a big hug as he told me to whistle if I needed him, he, Leah, and Embry all took the spiral stairs near the game room down to the yard. Alice led the way to the studio, but stopped about three feet from the door to look at me. I nodded, explaining, “You'll want to see what's in the two large crates near the sun deck, as well as the collages on the walls. Those are all mine, and what I painted before I got together with Caleb.”
She slowly stepped into the room with Jasper next to her, Peter following right behind them.
Caleb held me close as we waited, then I heard three gasps coming from inside the studio. It was several long tension-filled minutes, but then I heard Ali start sobbing, so I whispered, “It's time. I need to tell them everything.”
Caleb nodded as he kissed my shoulder, whispering, “I'm right here, Isabella, to help you through it. You aren't alone anymore.”
That thought made most of the tension melt right out of me, causing me to whisper after a kiss over his heart, “I know, My Love... and I'm more grateful for that than you know.”
The next hour and a half was filled with telling them what all had transpired after they left. When I was done speaking, all three of them had onyx eyes, truly looking as if they wanted to go on a killing spree. I didn't understand why they had that look, but needed a break before they tried to tell their side.
Caleb said right away as he hugged me close, “There are trees that could use some rearranging on the property. Just inform Isa's wolf family before you start, please.”
Without a word, the three of them stood to kiss the top of my head, then dashed out the family room doors.
Caleb decided to make me a large meal while I rested on the couch, coming over several times to brush his hand against my cheek, before kissing me tenderly and going back to the kitchen. I was just dozing lightly when I felt a cool hand that wasn't Caleb's cup my cheek. I instinctively inhaled, then smiled slightly as I whispered, “Jazz.”
I blinked my eyes open to see he was smiling sadly down at me. “I swear we never wanted to leave you. We love you, and have been going crazy not knowing how you were doing.”
I shook my head as I said, “Not yet, please. I need to eat before you tell me any more, or I won't be able to.”
He nodded, sat down on the floor in front of me, held my hand, and whispered, “You rest now, Sugar. Caleb will let me know when your food is ready.”
Jasper stroked my hand softly as I felt a fuzzy blanket of peace settle over me, then soon I was dozing again.
When I woke, it was to a soft kiss to my lips. I hummed at the tingle that accompanied it, whispering sleepily, “I love the way you wake me. I think I'll miss that after I'm turned.”
I opened my eyes to see the blinding smile on my mate's face as he said, “I can still give you the same sensation after your turning, Little Dove, it just won't be to wake you.”
He leaned in, slyly brushing his thumb across my marked nipple as he nipped my bottom lip, the sensation causing me to gasp as my nipples pebbled. He hummed, then said, “God, I love how you react to me. Your dinner is ready, Sweets. I made enough for your pack family, too.”
I groaned, kissed his lips, then said, “I'd better get out there before it's all gone, then... especially if they just got back from their run.”
He chuckled, picking me up bridal-style, then set me down in my chair at the nook in front of a large plate. Peter, Jasper, and Alice all turned the bar stools around from the kitchen so that they could join in on the conversation, then I reconnected with my pack family while we ate. It was so good to see them, but I was worried about how Sam and the rest would take to Caleb, especially now that this happened. I hesitantly asked Jake when he was almost done eating, “Jake? How was Sam when you phased?”
He smiled at me as he patted my hand. “He was good. He's glad you're alright now. I explained to him what you wrote to me, so he isn't upset with your man. He actually said he'd have done the same thing in that circumstance, and I have to agree, now that I know what the issue was.”
Embry and Leah both nodded in agreement, then I asked, “I know I'm not up to traveling yet, but does he still want us to come out?”
Jake looked at me like I was insane, “Of course he does, Crazy Bells. More now than he did before, I think. Jasper even explained to me their side, and Sam said he'd tweak the agreement if the three of them are gonna tag along.”
I looked at Jasper, but he said, “We can't risk being seen in Forks, Isa, after being gone for so long. We'd love to go with you, but it's too risky with us not aging.”
I thought for a second, then a plan formed in my mind. I smiled widely, looking at Jake. “Have them tweak the treaty, because even though they can't go to Forks, I'll send them ahead with our things to Colorado. You know by now that Peter only drinks donated blood, so that won't be an issue, will it?”
Jake grinned while shaking his head, “Already got the okay from Sam. He wants to hear from you himself, though, so you can ask him to redo the treaty when you call.”
I nodded, then looked at Jasper as he said, “It's perfect, Isa. We can get the house opened up while you're in Forks, then you won't have to worry about it when you meet us there. We'd just need directions, the things you want us to take, and what you want done as far as repairs, if anything.”
I hugged him to me, sending him my thanks as he kissed my temple, “It's the least we can do, Sugar, and we don't want to be away from you any more.”
...One Week Later...
The last week has been full of ups, but only one down. I was furious when I found out the lengths Edward had gone to. The others wouldn't believe it, but Jasper and Alice started believing soon after they left, that Edward had only used me to conquer the blood lust for his singer.
Carlisle had understood that Edward was the one to growl first the night of my birthday, trying once more to talk him into changing me. He told Carlisle he would speak to me about it, but he never came to me at all. He left their house, coming back awhile later, only to explain that I wished not to have contact with any of them again. He said I realised the danger of having them in my life, and no longer wanted anything to do with them.
Jasper, having felt my feelings, didn't believe Edward. He told Alice, who then had a vision of me crying. They both tried to dissuade everyone when Edward insisted they move immediately. His excuse was a crock of shit, if you ask me… to let me get on with a vampire-free life, as was my wish.
Anyway, Alice and Jasper left soon after that episode, when it was clear that everyone else was believing Edward. They went directly to Peter's, then Alice started searching for any small decision related to me, to see if I wanted contact from them. They didn't want to risk showing themselves to me if I truly wanted nothing more to do with vampires... so Alice searched, searched again, then searched some more. She was getting to the point of giving up and going back to Forks when Peter texted Caleb.
I knew, after I heard their side of the story, that I would end up confronting Edward. The thing was, though, I didn't plan on doing it as human.
I had called Sam to warn him to keep his nose in the air for Edward, then to feed him a lie that I was living back in Phoenix again, working for a publishing house. He was to do this, all while making sure his thoughts matched his spoken words.
Hopefully, if Edward bought it, he would think I was living out a lame human existence, then feed the lie to the rest of the Cullens. Afterward, Sam would call me. I would then have Caleb call Carlisle to ask when a good time to visit would be, saying he had finally found his mate, and wanted Carlisle to meet her.
Jasper and Peter both liked the plan when Alice agreed that everything up to getting there was set, but she couldn't tell me how it would go once Edward saw me on Caleb's arm. I knew I would be winging it from there, hence no sight from Alice concerning it, so Caleb agreed that this was the way to go.
We had set a tentative date for my change; we’re just all hoping that Sam didn't run into Edward before then.
Caleb and I arrived in Forks, as scheduled, with everything going perfectly. Jake and Embry both slapped him on the back before shaking his hand, then Sam pulled me into a monster of a hug.
Caleb and I did end up taking Sam and Emily shopping for the baby, remarkably ending with me managing to keep it within the limits of their small house. I was just so happy that they were finally getting their wish for a child, that I couldn't help but want to buy tons of baby gadgets for them. Caleb just smiled and went along with me, but I could tell he was sad about something.
Later that night when we were curled up in bed, I asked him, “What were you thinking about today? You seemed sad.”
He rolled so he was hovering over me, then slid down to kiss all over my flat stomach. “I can't give you a child, Isabella. I saw the joy on your face today; I was sad that it couldn't be our child you were so happy over.”
I ran my fingers through his hair, then whispered, “I never wanted to be a mother before I met you, because I could never picture having someone's child. With you, I know that's not an option, but there are many children out there that need homes. I think once my thirst is under control, I'd like to talk about adopting, but I don't want to get ahead of myself.”
He beamed up at me, asking hopefully, “You would want that? To raise a child with me?”
I grinned, then he nodded, saying as he kissed his way up to hover over me, “I think I would like that very much, Isabella. Once your thirst is under control, I will make sure to bring up the topic again.”
The rest of our week in Forks was amazing. On the last day there, Sam came to me with a huge smile. “He's good with the young ones, Bella. I think the techniques he taught them will help with their tempers. If you still want us to come out, we can do what you suggested, placing scraps of the imprints' clothing into little bags. If all goes well and no one is affected, Jake, Leah, Paul, Rebecca, Jared, Kim, Emily and myself would like to come out. Remember, if you have to be changed in an emergency before then, have someone call to let us know. You know how I worry about you.”
I smiled, hugging him tightly, “I know, Sammy. I love you guys, too. We'll be careful, and we'll keep in touch. I don't know if Caleb's going to want to make Colorado a permanent home yet, so we may only stay there until after your visit. I told him we'd try the Carolina castle if he didn't like Colorado.”
We said our goodbyes soon after, then were on our way to the vacation home Renee and Phil had left me.
When we finally arrived the next morning, Jasper was shirtless, working on repointing some of the stone pillars. I could see many spots on his chest and arms that glittered brighter than the rest, so I knew those were his scars from the Southern Wars, but it made him look almost like an armored god to me. An instant shot of lust snaked through me at the sight, causing Caleb to hum, “Welcome home, Little Minx. Do you see something to your liking?”
I nodded as I said softly, “Armored god at 11 o'clock.”
Jasper whipped his head up, so I must have said that louder than I thought, but he just chuckled and gave me a devilish smirk. Caleb grinned, kissing my temple, then parked in front of the house to unload our bags.
I was surprised when I caught Jasper looking at me, his eyes almost black with desire, along with the slight nod that Caleb gave him as we walked up the front steps. Jasper pulled me to him by my hips, then ran his nose from my shoulder to my ear as he whispered, “Armored God, huh, Sugar? I don't know about that, but I do know that you are the most irresistible little lady I've ever laid eyes on. I want you, Isabella... Ali and I both want so much to worship every beautiful inch of you... all you have to do is say the word.”
He placed a kiss on the soft spot behind my ear, then backed up enough to let go of one of my hips, shaking Caleb's hand happily, “We missed you both, but found ways to keep occupied. How'd the trip go?”
I almost whimpered in need as Jasper released my other hip, not fully letting go until he could brush his thumb teasingly against the soft skin just under the low waist of my jeans.
Caleb and I spent the next month settling into the house. There were several times that I heard Alice and Jasper having heated sex. A couple of those times, I even heard Peter joining them, causing me to feel inexplicably jealous. The jealousy mounted when I caught Alice and Peter having passionate sex in the kitchen in the middle of the night, while Jasper had his cock being sucked hungrily by Alice. I had a hard time choking down the jealousy after that, especially since neither of them had expressed an interest in an invitation from us again after we arrived home.
Our wolf family came to visit a few weeks before my birthday, which was when we were scheduling my transformation for. Jake pulled me aside one night, looking deep in my eyes, then said softly, “Spill it, Bells. No one is in hearing range. What's going on with you?”
I shook my head as the tears filled my eyes, wiped at them angrily, then said, “It's nothing, Jake. I was just hoping something, but then I saw something that made me realise it would never happen. Just... let it go, please.”
He shook his head, made me look him in the eyes, then whispered, “I've seen the looks, Bells... the ones you give Alice and Jasper… the ones you give Peter, when you think no one is looking. This has something to do with them, doesn't it?”
I nodded reluctantly, then said sadly, “When we first got here from visiting Forks, Jazz made it sound like he and Ali really wanted to be with us... then for the next month, I hear them going at it, with Peter added to the mix a few times. Finally, the other night, I woke in the middle of the night while Caleb was hunting. I went down to get a drink, only to see Ali, Jazz and Peter in a heated tryst in the kitchen. I was jealous... of Peter. He got to have something I wanted. It made me realise they no longer wanted to be with us, since they now had him and hadn't hinted again about wanting an invitation. I swore to myself before that night, that the next time they insinuated about wanting to be with us, that I would give that invitation to them. Caleb and I talked about it a lot. I guess I just don't understand. Half the time I want to squash the jealousy, because there's really no reason for it, but the other half of the time, the jealousy feels like it's suffocating me.”
Jake smiled as he cupped my cheek, then hugged me while whispering, “Don't worry, Baby Bells. It'll all work out. I can tell you right now, though, that all three of them... Jasper, Alice, and Peter... look at you like you're Aphrodite reincarnate. Just don't give up hope, if that's what you want.”