AN: After some persuading from a loyal reader and friend, I decided that another sequel was in order. Like always, it was so much fun to write and I hope you enjoy reading it. This fic takes place after "Rosalie's Choice" and is part of the Renesmee's Choice Series: Renesmee's Choice, Seth's Choice, Consequences, Rosalie's Choice and now…Leah's Choice!
All the characters except for my original creations belong to SM.
Chapter 1
The chase was only half the fun for Zach when it came to playing games with Seth. Over two years of teasing, playing, and getting into trouble together only made them closer. While Zach was barely over two years old, in appearance he was a seven year old boy. He was tall for his age, already standing at four feet and five inches in height, and had a muscular build like his father. His thick, curly blond hair and dimples made him irresistible, but his beautiful smile he inherited from his mother and his father's charm did nothing to get him out of all the trouble he got into with Seth. The two of them were like brothers and a complete handful, even with Seth being an adult.
After begging Rosalie to let them explore for a while in the Olympic National Park, they sped through it, playing whatever games came to mind. As usual, they not only lost track of time, but their surroundings and ended up in Alaska, the Chugach National Forest to be exact. It was one of their favorite places to play because of the snowy mountains and icy rocks that covered a vast majority of the land. The harsh late November climate deterred humans from exploring deep into the forest and mountains, the regions where Zach and Seth partook in their intense games. Their version of tag mixed in with hide and seek was altered to fit their abilities and Zach tracked Seth's scent to a mound of snow and rocks. The sandy fur of the tip of Seth's bushy tail could be spotted behind a boulder and Zach chuckled. His booming laugh was without a doubt a replica of his father's.
"Come on out Seth. I see you…..or maybe I should just do this," taunted Zach and he swiftly waved his arm forward sending a force field that pulsated toward Seth. The wolf was quick to dive out of the way, however, expecting the action and ran around the mountain with Zach chasing after him laughing the whole way.
Several rearranged boulders and piles of snow later, Zach grew tired of using his ability to catch Seth. Instead, he pounced and channeled his vampire instincts to wrap his arms around Seth's hind legs. They tumbled and rolled down the side of the mountain before landing on a cliff covered in snow that received the impact of their fall. Seth's body shook with mirth as he snickered and Zach couldn't hold in his laughter, but a rumbling made them both look up before making eye contact. The piles of snow and boulders from above began to crumble down the mountain causing a chain reaction that sent more rubble and snow in its path.
"Avalanche," yelled Zach and they sped down the mountain easily outrunning the elements of nature that plummeted behind them. The remnants of the avalanche crashed at the bottom of the mountain stirring up dirt, snow, ice, and rocks before settling. The thunderous sound echoed throughout the region and Seth followed Zach out of Alaska as they tried to contain their amusement. Smiles were spread wide on their face as they ran home but as soon as they crossed the Washington state line, the sight of Rosalie with her arms crossed, one foot tapping, and an eyebrow raised made them stop dead in their tracks. Seth and Zach glanced at one another with wide eyes but said nothing, knowing it wouldn't help their cause.
"Home, now," she managed to get out through gritted teeth and they didn't hesitate to obey her command, running home as fast as they could. She shook her head and huffed as she followed them back to Hoquiam.
By the time Seth changed into comfortable clothes and shuffled his feet downstairs, he knew everyone was in the house either pretending to keep busy, like Esme and Carlisle who were in the kitchen lining cabinets, or blatantly listening to what was about to transpire, like Renesmee and Nahuel who were sitting on a chaise lounge across from the living room as if they had the best seats in the house. Edward and Bella were in the study skimming over books but focusing more on Rosalie's pacing feet, while Alice and Jasper sat at the top of the stairs. Seth grumbled about them enjoying the show gaining some quiet giggles as he passed and entered the living room. He glanced at Kaya, pleading with his eyes for help from his wife, but she just shook her head in amusement while she sat on the sofa adjacent to the couch Zach was already perched on. Seth sat down beside him and looked up at Emmett and Rosalie. Emmett had his arms crossed over his broad chest trying to look intimidating, but mainly in an effort to hold in his own laughter as Rosalie spoke.
"What are we going to do with the two of you? I trusted that I could let you two have some fun since I know going to Forks and being around humans for a while can be slow in pace, but what part of playing in the Olympic National Park made you even consider going all the way to Alaska," she yelled and Seth put on his best pout. He was ready to plead his case, but Zach beat him to it.
"It was Seth's idea," he blurted out and Seth gasped dramatically before glaring at him.
"You are such a tattle tale!"
"Am not, you are, you told mommy I used my powers yesterday."
"You threw me into a cave!" Zach scoffed and rolled his eyes.
"You are so sensitive. It didn't even hurt you," he grumbled as he crossed his arms.
"Alright enough you two," warned Rosalie and Seth sighed.
"Rose, we're sorry. We were just having a bit of fun….."
"You caused an avalanche," exclaimed Rosalie and Alice nodded as she walked in.
"Yep and Benjamin said he felt it too. I called him to make sure no one noticed and he assured me avalanches were common in that area. Garrett is mad that you two didn't tell him you were in the area playing but I think that is besides the point," added Alice and Seth smirked.
"She is a tattle tale too," he pouted and Zach covered his chuckle while Alice glared at Seth. Rosalie pinched the bridge of her nose.
"Emmett, what should we do with these two? Kaya, can't you control your husband," asked Rosalie and Kaya shook her head without hesitation.
"No better than you can Rose. He is thirty eight and stuck in his ways," informed Kaya. That made Seth chuckle.
"Yea Rose, you can't get Emmett to act his age so how can you expect for me to," he teased.
"Hey," shouted Emmett and Rosalie clenched her jaw in frustration.
"Alright, that is it. Seth, outside now and Zach go take a bath. You need to get ready for the party," instructed Rosalie.
"Aw, but mommy I took a bath already. I swam in Alaska….." Zach started to whine, but fell silent when he saw the look on his mother's face.
"Zachary," she warned and he raced upstairs with his father right behind him. Rosalie walked outside with Seth reluctantly following her.
"Uh, where are we going? I am too old to get a spanking, honest," he teased and with that the whole house erupted with the laughter they had been containing from the moment the three of them returned. She spun on her heels to give him a look and he looked down.
"Right, in trouble, should keep my mouth shut," he whispered mostly to himself. They walked in eerie silence into the forest, only stopping when she decided they were out of hearing range.
"Seth, what were you thinking? You are in charge of him when the two of you are off together having your fun. You know I don't care if you want to play but you need to learn responsibility. He is two even if he looks seven and you should know better. He looks up to you."
"I know but….."
"Enjoying the perks of being his big brother is one thing, but at some point you are going to have to take the responsibility that goes with it. What if a human would have been on the mountain when the avalanche happened?" He sighed and nodded.
"You're right. I wasn't thinking. I'm sorry," he said as he stared a hole into the ground. He rubbed the back of his neck like he usually did when he was being scolded.
"I just need for you to watch out for him. Too many things can happen if you aren't careful and he looks up to his big brother so keep that in mind the next time you decide to take him to Alaska for an adventure. In our world, adventure can easily turn into danger. Come on, we are already running late thanks to you two. Your mother will be very upset if we miss her birthday party." He nodded and gave her a hug before running back to the house. Rosalie shook her head in amusement as she thought about the latest escapade involving Seth and Zach. They were a handful, but her handful, and she loved them for it.
Driving to Forks from Hoquiam never took long for the Cullens even though running was always faster. Numerous cars were already parked along the street when they arrived at Charlie and Sue's house and the backyard was full of her friends and family from La Push. Bella immediately hugged her father when they entered the house and Renesmee was right behind her. Charlie couldn't hide his smile at seeing his girls.
"Hey you two, we were wondering when you would arrive. The pack and their families are out back giving Sue tons of attention. You know she is enjoying it," he chuckled and Sue playfully nudged him as she walked toward them.
"Don't listen to your father. He always exaggerates. I am so happy everyone could make it," said Sue and Emmett chuckled as he carried in the loads of presents. Her eyes widened at the sight and Edward winked at her.
"Of course we had to shower you with gifts on your birthday," explained Edward.
"You Cullens and your presents, Charlie told me of all the presents Bella tried to resist. I, on the other hand, will graciously accept them," she giggled. Seth jogged over to his mother and engulfed her in his warm arms. She hugged him tightly before inspecting his appearance. He was wearing black slacks, a gray dress shirt, and matching tie.
"Alice always has you looking so handsome. I hope you aren't getting into too much trouble," said Sue and Alice gently hugged her.
"Thank you for the compliment Sue and yes he was just in trouble before we left the house," she said in a sing song voice before skipping toward the backyard with Jasper. Seth groaned.
"The biggest tattle tale ever," he whined and Sue gave Rosalie a questioning look.
"He helped cause an avalanche in Alaska and is all yours to deal with, happy birthday," explained Rosalie with a sly smile. Seth gasped dramatically while Sue and Rosalie hugged.
"Rose, that was mean, how could you just throw me under the bus," asked Seth in disbelief. Rosalie simply shrugged.
"Maybe you will listen to her."
"Oh this is so not fair. Zach didn't even get in trouble," protested Seth.
"Yes, he is in trouble and is grounded for two weeks which includes no hide and seek with his big brother."
"But mommy, we were just…." Zach started to whine, but Emmett cleared his throat causing Zach to slowly nod.
"Yes ma'am," he mumbled. Sue smiled as she ran a hand through his curly blond hair. It was soft to the touch and he looked up at her giving a breathtaking smile.
"He is so adorable and has your smile Rosalie," complimented Sue and Zach suddenly frowned in confusion.
"You are Seth's other mommy right," he asked and Sue giggled.
"Yes, I am."
"Well, what does that make you to me," he questioned. Rosalie's eyes widened and Seth grinned as Carlisle cleared his throat.
"We're going to go mingle, come on everyone," he said getting out of dodge along with Esme, Charlie, Bella, Renesmee, Edward, and Nahuel. Kaya glanced back and forth between Sue and Rosalie while they made eye contact as if communicating silently. Emmett picked up Zach.
"Um, well….funny story….uh…Rose," asked Emmett and Rosalie giggled.
"Zach, I think calling her Miss Sue will be best. Just know that she is Seth's mother and Charlie's wife," she informed. Zach thought for a moment before frowning even more.
"So we aren't related at all…..how confusing," he admitted and Seth ruffled his hair.
"Which is why it fits in our family, come on Z, I'll show you my old pack. We used to play games together all the time," said Seth and Zach's golden brown eyes lit up.
"Cool," he chuckled as he followed Seth and Kaya toward the backyard. Sue smiled at Rosalie and sighed.
"They are a handful, I can already tell. How are you holding up," she asked curiously.
"Luckily, vampires don't get tired because I would be exhausted. Where are…..never mind, I hear them coming," replied Rosalie and Sue smiled when she saw Jacob and Leah's car pull into the driveway. Emmett kissed his wife's cheek.
"I'll check on the boys. Seth, Zach, and the rest of the pack can mean nothing but trouble," he chuckled and she smiled adoringly as Emmett went to make sure their son was behaving. Sue gave a knowing smile.
"How is he handling fatherhood? I know Emmett can be a big kid as well."
"He has his moments, but he is a wonderful father just like I always knew he would be." Leah and Jacob walked up the stairs to the porch and hugged Sue.
"Happy birthday mom, Rose it is good to see you again," said Leah as they all embraced, but Rosalie frowned.
"Where is Joshua," she questioned. Jacob and Leah glanced at each other, something that Rosalie immediately noticed but Leah just shrugged.
"He is with Billy. They enjoy their time together. Mom, how does it feel to be….."
"Don't even say it. No one is allowed to say my age," warned Sue causing them all to laugh. Jacob gave Rosalie a nudge with his elbow.
"What's up blondie?"
"Jacob, well look at you with a beard, it looks nice, not a flea in sight," she taunted.
"Yea I used that flea powder you suggested. Oh and since I knew you would be here I made sure it also repelled ticks." They smiled slyly at one another and Leah rolled her eyes.
"You two just can't help yourselves. Come on, let's go say hello to everyone else," suggested Leah and they filed into the house ready to celebrate Sue's big day.
Once Sue blew out the candles and opened her gifts, most of the guests from La Push went home. It was getting late in the evening and they all had families to tend to. Sam and Emily were the last of the group to leave and Bella and Edward waved goodbye to them from the porch as they drove away.
"I can't believe how much has changed. They all have their own families and are aging now. Time has passed so quickly," said Bella and Edward wrapped her in his arms. She snuggled into his embrace with a smile.
"Well that is what happens, love. The wolves don't have to stay frozen in time like us. Without a threat looming near or a reason to phase, they began to age and go on with their lives. Thank you for blocking out everyone's thoughts for me tonight. It was nice to be able to just enjoy the party, almost normal really," he teased with a crooked smile and she winked at him.
"I assumed as much. I still can't get over how different some of them looked and…." She noticed Edward's sudden frown and she groaned.
"I should have kept the shield up. Do you want me to…."
"No, keep it down. I am fine. We should just head inside to give them some privacy," he explained and Rosalie and Leah exited the house before Bella could question him. Leah glanced at Edward and he gave a small nod before going inside with Bella who looked at Leah curiously. Rosalie noticed the interaction and cleared her throat.
"Am I in for good news or bad news, you have been acting strange all night? Does this have anything to do with Joshua not being here?" Leah sighed and the two of them strolled down the sidewalk away from the house.
"Did Seth tell you we live in Sequim now? It is less than an hour and a half away."
"Yes, he said Jacob has a repair shop there. I know he enjoys fixing cars." Leah nodded and tucked a strand of her black hair behind her ear.
"It is quiet there, peaceful really and they have a nice school district. With Josh being three and a half, we have to start thinking about his education soon."
"That is wonderful, but why do I have a feeling you are just easing me into something?" Leah stopped at the corner of the street and leaned against a large tree as she looked away.
"I love my life right now, the normalcy of it all and I want that for my son. I want him to only worry about the things that normal children do and when he becomes a teenager I want him to have teenage problems, not wolf ones. Teenage hormones are bad enough without adding temperamental werewolf issues."
"I agree, so what are you saying?"
"I am saying that I don't want him to be around any….being…that will trigger the gene. I don't want that for my son, a path that he will not be able to truly choose. It is imposed and if I can stop it from happening then I will."
"So why are you telling me this?" Leah rolled her eyes.
"You know why I am Rose. You are…..well you are my best friend but….."
"But having your son around me or my family is a risk. I understand that," said Rosalie with a shrug and Leah smirked.
"I knew you would do this."
"Do what?" Leah gritted her teeth as she pushed away from the tree to stand up straight.
"I knew you would act as if I am talking crazy or like I mean nothing to you in the first place all to save your pride!"
"That isn't what I am doing. I understand Leah. You have your family now and I have mine. We are natural born enemies according to your legends so…."
"It isn't about that. Don't do that. You know if Joshua could be around your family without it causing him to turn into a wolf one day then I would allow it." Rosalie looked down as she slowly nodded.
"True, but we both know that the possibility will always be there especially since he comes from two wolves, it is genetic. I suppose this is goodbye then."
"Why are you being so calm about this?" Rosalie gave a small smile.
"Because this is nothing new to me…..loss, it comes with the territory. One day all of you will be gone and we will stay the same. We usually move away by now, but we have stayed close because of the ties we have made, maybe too many ties. I have watched my human family die out, students I went to school with years ago pass away, and like all of them someday you will be gone too. I don't have to like it. In fact, this time will be the most difficult when it does come one day, but I know that loss is part of my existence. I accept that and at least now I have the family I have always wanted. I won't be angry at you for protecting the one you have as well." Leah wiped a tear as she tried to fight back several more.
"That is very morbid, speaking of our deaths."
"It is the truth, not today or anytime soon, but one day as with all humans, it will happen. Because of that, I know the importance of living your life the best way that you can. You want a normal life for your family. I could never fault you for that, even if it means we cannot be around each other."
"I at least expected more of a fight." Rosalie giggled and shook her head.
"I care about you too much to try to make you feel guilty. I am sure Seth will do enough of that. I take it he doesn't know?"
"No, I am about to tell him though. I wanted you to know first. I mean Seth can come around whenever he wants as long as there aren't vampires with him but you….."
"But I can't change what I am and I learned that long ago." They stood in silence for a moment, neither willing to budge, but Leah swallowed her pride and hugged Rosalie as her tears slid down her cheeks.
"I never expected to care so much for a bloodsucker," giggled Leah and Rosalie did as well trying to lighten the mood.
"Yea, liking a mutt wasn't part of my plan either. I wish things could be different. You know if you need me…."
"I know," nodded Leah as she attempted to regain composure and pull away. She quickly wiped the moisture from her cheeks and sighed.
"One down, one to go…..you'll tell the others for me right?" Rosalie rolled her eyes.
"Yes, you coward, I will tell them. How does Jacob feel about all of this?"
"Conflicted of course, but he understands where I am coming from." Leah turned to leave but Rosalie took a step toward her.
"Leah, I understand your decision as a mother, but as a…supernatural creature, I must warn you. It isn't as easy as you might think to suppress who you are. Trust me, I spent decades trying to deny that my heart didn't beat anymore, but at some point you will have to accept it. You and Jacob are shapeshifters for a reason and you can't change that." Leah thought for a moment, letting the words sink in before slowly nodding. Her face set with a determined expression, which Rosalie knew all too well.
"True, but I can change it for my son." With those words, she headed back to the house in search of her brother.
When Seth heard the news, he was stunned into silence. He sat on the front porch listening to his sister ramble on about a normal life and responsibilities, but it barely registered. The disappointment in his eyes was all the emotion he could muster up and Leah tried to make him see her side knowing that their words could be heard by all those it affected the most.
"Seth, say something, anything," she urged and he ran a hand through his black, shoulder length hair.
"So just like that, you are cutting ties? How can you be so cold after everything we have all been through together?"
"I never wanted this life Seth. It is a life where I know far too much about the supernatural and the dangers that lurk. My son deserves better than that." He scoffed.
"You really think you can change who he is?"
"That doesn't have to be who he is. It is so damn consuming with no other choice in the matter and if I can give him the choices that we didn't have then I will. It doesn't mean you can never see him."
"Just as long as the Cullens or my wife aren't with me, yes I remember your speech Leah. I just can't believe you are saying it. Does Jake know about this?" The front door opened and Jacob walked out with his hands stuffed in his pockets. He stood beside his wife on the lawn giving her his support.
"Yes, I know about it and I know what she means. A lot of great things have happened, but also a lot of pain that wasn't necessary."
"That is a part of life. There are ups and downs even for humans and plenty of danger, just watch the news if you don't believe me!"
"Seth, please try to understand," pleaded Leah and Seth shook his head as he stood up.
"Whatever, it doesn't matter and I don't have to understand." He stomped up the stairs of the porch, but she grabbed his hand to turn him back around.
"Don't you dare dismiss me like I am nothing to you," she yelled and he chuckled bitterly.
"Oh right, sorry only you can do that to people."
"Damn it Seth, this wasn't an easy decision, but I am not just your sister or Jake's wife or some wolf anymore. I am a mother and I know you have no clue what true responsibility is, but I do. Some of us have to grow up!"
"This isn't about growing up Leah. It is about you running scared and trying to pretend that you are something that you aren't. You aren't just a human…."
"But Joshua could be and I want that for him. I'm sorry if you can't understand that. We should get going. We're heading home tonight and don't want him out too late. You are more than welcomed to come see him. You know our new address." Seth looked down and she kissed his forehead before walking to the car. Jacob gave him a small smile.
"Like I told the others, there are loopholes. When Josh is with my dad, we can always come and see you guys, you know, to catch up. It isn't goodbye forever. We just can't have him around all of this stuff," clarified Jacob, but Seth still shook his head in disappointment. Jacob knew he needed time to accept it and he got in the car with his wife. Sue walked onto the porch and gave her son a sympathetic smile as they drove away.
"Are you alright," she asked as she sat down on the top porch step and he sat beside her.
"I can't believe she is doing this."
"Seth, Leah has to do what she feels is right for her life just like you have to do what is right for you. The two of you have different outlooks on life and she has a three year old son to take into account. Your choices in life are going to differ." Seth placed his head on his mother's shoulder.
"Do you think dad is proud of my choices? I mean I know I am not exactly normal like Leah wishes she can be but…."
"Of course your father is proud of you. That is a given. You are a wonderful man Seth and never doubt that. Just because you are going down a different path from Leah's doesn't mean one path is wrong and one is right, simply different."
"Do you really think she can protect Josh from all of this? I mean is that even possible?"
"I understand her logic behind it and her concerns. Only time will tell if it will work out. One thing is clear though, Leah wants a normal life and she is going to do everything that she can in order to get it." Seth hugged his mother and sighed. She always knew how to mediate the situation even when he was younger. While he always loved his sister, seeing eye to eye with her was a rarity and he accepted that long ago.