It feels like forever since I last posted a story and with it now being November, I am going through Twilight withdrawals. It is such an odd feeling not having a new film to look forward to, so I am filling that void with another sequel in the Choice Series. I hope you enjoy!
~Emmettroselover
Chapter 1
Zach glanced down at his watch impatiently again as his mother recited the rules and conditions of their arrangement. It was the day Zach had been waiting for since Alexander and Lena invited the entire family to Italy for the holidays. It was the last day of school before the holiday break for Josh and Zach could not contain his excitement to go pick up his best friend. He nodded emphatically at his mother as she finished her ramblings.
"Which means you will come straight back here and not wander off into the forest, we are on a schedule, understand," asked Rosalie and Zach huffed.
"Aw come on, mom, you know you can trust me by now. This isn't the first time I have picked up Josh, jeez," he whined.
"But it is the first time that Garrett tagged along," she informed as she arched an eyebrow at Garrett and Zach chuckled. Garrett rolled his eyes.
"Hey, I take offense to that. I am a responsible, mature adult. Wait, was that whole tirade about the rules of going to pick up Josh for me because if so, sorry I kind of zoned out," he confessed and Rosalie groaned in frustration. Zach snickered and Garrett shrugged as Kate walked over to console Rosalie.
"Rose, you know if I thought this was a bad idea, I wouldn't let Garrett go. I understand your concern. After all, he is just a big kid…."
"Hey," interrupted Garrett, but Kate ignored his outburst.
"But seriously Rose, it will all work out and even Alice thinks it is a good idea. Garrett can be responsible…sometimes," giggled Kate and Garrett playfully glared at his mate.
"Listen, I am more than capable of picking up Josh and keeping the two of them in line so that we make it back in time to catch the plane. We will go straight there and straight back. Simple as that," he assured and Zach began to pout.
"Wait, does that mean we can't stop to hunt before we pick him up? You promised," accused Zach and Garrett waved him off.
"Of course we are going to do that. I wonder how many elk I can take down. That could be a fun game," wondered Garrett.
"You're on," exclaimed Zach as he high-fived Garrett and Rosalie threw her hands up in exasperation.
"What happened to straight there and back," she questioned and Garrett shrugged.
"That doesn't mean we can't make a couple of stops along the way."
"Actually, Garrett that is exactly what it means. You three need to be back here before nightfall," warned Rosalie.
"Don't worry so much Rose, it will be fine. A few elk, some deer, maybe a bear or mountain lion, pick up Josh, and we will be back in no time," assured Garrett.
"Yep, easy as elk," agreed Zach with the dimpled grin he knew his mother could not resist. She let out a dramatic sigh, but nodded as the two of them headed toward the dock.
"Garrett, remember that the two of them have made it from Forks and back just fine before you, so if anything happens, it will be your head," called Rosalie and Garrett winked at her.
"Stop worrying so much. It will be great. We'll go for a quick hunt, pick up some girls, and probably Josh somewhere along the way," teased Garrett as he stepped onto the ferry with Zach. The icy glares of Rosalie and Kate let him know they were not amused and he laughed nervously.
"That was a joke, Kate. You know I love you. Rose, have some faith. Zach, get us out of here before they change their minds," advised Garrett and Zach let out a booming laugh as he drove the ferry away from the shore. Garrett clapped Zach on the back with a big grin.
"Those two worry too much," said Garrett and Zach smirked.
"Yea, I didn't have to go through all of this when I just picked up J on my own. I still don't understand why we need an adult present."
"Because we are picking Josh up a couple of hours early from school and an adult needs to be present to sign him out. Since his parents are making their way back from dropping Charlie and Sue off at the airport, one of us had to go and who better to not cramp your style than your ridiculously cool Uncle Garrett?"
"I can't wait for Josh to finally graduate so we don't have to go through all of this just to hang out."
"Well, after this school year, he will be a senior, so you don't have much longer. Now don't tell your mom this, but I think she has a point about hunting. We should probably just get to the school and come back."
"I hunted with my mom and dad before you got here anyways, so that's fine. After all, the sooner we get Josh, the sooner we can get to Italy."
"Sounds like a plan," chuckled Garrett and Zach revved the engine as he sped toward the shore of Washington.
Josh glanced up at the clock above the classroom door he anxiously wanted to escape through. He knew Zach and Garrett would be there soon enough, but each minute seemed to take hours. He spent the entire day thinking about the trip to Italy and all of the things he wanted to do. His science teacher's lecture seemed like jumbled words as he thought about the glamorous vacation he was about to go on. He was about to be back in the world that he loved, the world his classmates knew nothing about, and he could not wait to be able to be himself again. As soon as the phone rang in the classroom, he grinned from ear to ear and his teacher motioned for him to stand up.
"Joshua, gather your things. You are leaving early today. Please head to the office and make sure you have all of your belongings," said the teacher and Josh was already zipping up his backpack and heading out the door.
"Yep, already taken care of, bye Mrs. Lucas, Merry Christmas," called Josh as he jogged out of the classroom. By the time he turned the corner, he was in a sprint to get to the office and he smiled when he saw Zach and Garrett waiting for him, but it faded when he noticed Garrett's uneasiness. It did not take long for Josh's smile to return when he realized the situation and he snickered along with Zach while Garrett created some distance between himself and the middle-aged secretary that was devouring him with her eyes.
"Well, Mrs. Hill, I would love to stay here and…."
"Actually, it is Miss Hill. I am not married, still looking for the right, tall, handsome man to come into my life. I haven't seen you around town before. You must be new," cooed the woman and Garrett gulped.
"Um, no, just passing through to pick up my nephew's best friend and….."
"Oh, how sweet of you, when Mrs. Black called to notify us that Joshua would be picked up by a family friend, I didn't imagine that friend would be so gorgeous or have such long hair. It is rare for a man to look so handsome in a ponytail, but I must say it just adds to your ruggedness. Where are you from?"
"Alaska, just like my wife, well we have to go, but thank you for your help," mumbled Garrett as he rushed the boys out of the office and the woman followed him with her eyes.
"Have a Merry Christmas," she called and he waved as he sighed in relief.
"Man, Garrett, we can't take you and your ponytail anywhere," teased Josh as Zach grinned mischievously.
"Yea, you and your ruggedness are just too much," added Zach. Garrett glared at the boys as they snickered.
"Not a word of this to Kate," warned Garrett and Zach shrugged.
"That's fine. She won't hear it from us. I am sure Aunt Alice is already filling her in," chuckled Zach.
"Let's just get out of here before we have anymore issues," grumbled Garrett, but the sound of footsteps drawing near made them all turn around. It was Josh's turn to groan and he put on a polite smile. A stocky man in a jumpsuit jogged over to them.
"You must be Zach, Josh's friend. Wow, I heard you were tall, but this is better than I expected. I am Coach Taggert, the head football coach for the Spartans," said the man and Garrett took a step in front of Zach and Josh to make his presence known.
"Yes, this is my nephew and I am Garrett. Can we help you with something?" The coach took a step back, sensing the threat that humans could never quite put their finger on.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to ambush your boys here. It is just that with football season coming to an end and Josh only having one more year left to play for the team, I figured I would try to appeal to his comrade. Zach, word around here is that you are homeschooled, but I think that may be a mistake. You and Josh could be just what the Spartans need next season. With your size and my coaching, I think we could take Forks High all the way to state next year. Now Josh, I know you already turned me down once, but wouldn't it be great if you and your buddy here could be on the team together for your senior year?" Josh tried his best not to roll his eyes and Zach smiled sympathetically at the coach.
"I am flattered. Really, I am, but I am not into sports. Besides, homeschooling is what I prefer. It allows me certain….freedoms, that public school does not, but thank you," said Zach.
"Yea Coach T, we appreciate it, but we aren't football players," added Josh. Garrett pulled Josh and Zach toward the exit.
"We are on a schedule, but it was nice meeting you," said Garrett.
"If you are ever interested, just have your parents call me. It really is a great way to spend your senior year," called the coach as the three of them left the school. They laughed as they heard him mutter about the two boys being such a waste of talent. They slid into Zach's convertible and Zach sped away as Garrett shook his head in disbelief.
"Okay, I am just going to say it. School is weird. I don't know how your parents survived it," said Garrett and Zach smirked.
"I know and my parents did it multiple times."
"Talk about torture," groaned Josh.
"How long has that guy been trying to recruit you, J," asked Zach.
"Ever since I became taller and bigger than the rest of the boys in school, he says I have the potential to be a great football player."
"I am sure your talents will be better used elsewhere," teased Zach.
"Oh yea, all my alphaness is saved up for special occasions, occasions people in that school can never even imagine." Garrett frowned at the comment.
"Does it ever bother you, not being able to tell anyone that you go to school with about your abilities and life outside of this small town," asked Garrett.
"Yea, but I am used to it by now. I am just ready to get out of school. It is a big burden. I know my parents wanted me to have a normal teenage experience by going to school, but I am not normal. I belong in the supernatural world, not the human one. Besides, anything I want to learn about, I can learn from people who probably experienced it. Do you know how many times I have been taught about the American Revolution and thought, man I bet Garrett could teach Mr. Stone a thing or two about it? Or been taught the basics of anatomy, all the while knowing that I could get way cooler information from Carlisle about his actual experiences?"
"Well, for the next sixteen days, you don't have to worry about that because we are going to be on an island far away from here," assured Zach and Josh pumped his fist.
"I know and I can't wait. It seems like the months have passed by so slowly. I am just happy it is finally time to go," said Josh.
"Tell me about it. Aunt Alice has been driving everyone crazy planning the party but you know it is going to be epic."
"Yes, I can say a lot about your Aunt Alice, but she does know how to throw a party. I wasn't exactly in love with the idea of her planning my wedding with Kate, but it was definitely worth it. The little pixie knows how to party," said Garrett as the boys laughed.
"Hey Garrett, do you think there will be a lot of girls there," questioned Josh and Garrett smiled knowingly.
"Probably, I am sure you boys will find a way to stay entertained," assured Garrett and Josh sighed happily.
"I bet that place will be crawling with girls on the mainland. Z, we have to check it out."
"Is that all you ever think about," asked Zach.
"Of course and you should as well. You should get a date to the party, especially since your ex will be there with her mate," suggested Josh and Zach rolled his eyes as Garrett quietly snickered.
"Sofi is not my ex. We never even dated, so I have nothing to prove to her or anyone else." Garrett winked at him.
"He is right. It isn't a game and there isn't anything to prove for either one of you. You should just have fun. I am sure there will be plenty of vampire women there ready to make your acquaintance…..as long as your mothers do not terrorize them."
"Garrett, please do something about our moms," whined Josh and Garrett scoffed.
"Oh no, you two are on your own in that department. But hey, look at it this way, we are all going to be on a beautiful island in Italy where everyone will be ready to celebrate and have fun. I am sure you will have plenty of time to meet some beautiful ladies. Now, let's get back to the island and finish packing up with the rest of the family. I must warn you though, Josh. It has been a bit hectic. Between the pixie obsessing over every detail and everyone else trying to get packed for the flight, the island hasn't exactly been peaceful," warned Garrett and Zach nodded in agreement. Josh shrugged.
"When isn't Alice obsessing, but it doesn't even matter. Soon, we will all be partying in Italy. I can't wait," exclaimed Josh and both boys grinned from ear to ear as they thought about their holiday vacation.
Seth groaned and plopped onto his bed as Alice sifted through his closet for the tenth time. While the entire family was busy getting ready for the trip to Italy, Alice seemed to be in rare form as she flitted around the island, demanding that everyone look their best for the celebration on Marcus and Didyme's island.
"Alice, seriously, I already packed my suit. It looks great. You said so yourself," whined Seth and Alice ignored him as she grabbed a suit and placed it on the bed beside him.
"I think this one shows off your broad shoulders more and I love the color of the tie. Then too, the other tie accents your eyes, but what about the shoes? We can't have you in those shoes if I choose this one and…."
"Alice, we are running out of time. You already gave your nod of approval for the suit I picked out and Kaya loves it. Don't you have someone else to nag," asked Seth and she scoffed.
"I do not nag. I help, I improve, and yes, from time to time, I may even meddle, but I never nag." Kaya smirked as she walked into the bedroom.
"Oh you nag alright and you are nagging my poor mate as we speak. Look Alice, I love that you make sure that my gorgeous husband looks even sexier in his suits. I can even appreciate your fashion advice from time to time, but you have been terrorizing us and everyone else on this island for the past week. We are packed. You are packed and as soon as Zach, Josh, and Garrett get here, we are all going to be ready to go, so how about you go find Jasper, have him send you some happy, relaxing vibes and leave me and my mate alone," suggested Kaya, which made Seth's jaw dropped. Kaya rarely said anything to Alice when the pixie was on a mission and his head darted back and forth between the two women as Alice marched over to her. Alice glared at Kaya, but Kaya did not back down. She simply crossed her arms and arched an eyebrow as they stared each other down. Seth gulped as he watched them and slowly stepped between the two to diffuse the situation.
"Now, ladies, I am sure…"
"Stay out of this, Seth," they demanded in unison and he plopped back down on the bed in defeat. Alice glared at Kaya one last time before smiling slyly at her.
"Rose taught you well. Fine, I will leave you two alone, but don't think for a second this means you can get over on me for now on. I just have other people to help."
"Terrorize," corrected Kaya and Alice huffed.
"You say terrorize. I say enlighten with my impeccable fashion sense, but fine, we are at an impasse. Be at the main house soon, so we can leave," instructed Alice and they nodded.
"Of course, Alice, and thank you again for the dress, it is beautiful and I cannot wait to wear it," said Kaya as she gave Alice a hug. Alice smiled brightly and skipped out of the cottage as Seth gawked in astonishment.
"What just happened? Did you seriously just manage to get Alice to leave us alone," asked Seth and Kaya shrugged nonchalantly as she sat down on the bed by her mate.
"Just a little something Rose taught me. It won't always work, but when Alice knows she is being a pain, there are ways to get her to leave you alone, which includes standing your ground, making sure she knows you are serious, but also showing your appreciation for all that she does," explained Kaya and Seth nodded in awe.
"Wow and all this time I thought the only way was to tell Esme." Kaya giggled and kissed his cheek.
"That is always an option, but should be a last resort." Kaya stood up and went through her suitcase one more time to make sure everything was accounted for. She let out a heavy sigh and slowly nodded.
"Alright, I guess I am ready to go," she announced and Seth frowned in confusion.
"Why do you sound so hesitant? This is going to be awesome! We are going to Italy for the holidays and you get to see your family. I thought you would be ecstatic."
"I am. I just…..I don't know." She zipped up her suitcase and Seth pulled her into his arms.
"Hey, what's going on? I can tell it is something." She rested her head on his shoulder and sighed contently as he stroked her hair.
"I just am worried about Sofi," she confessed.
"Why? I thought everything was great now that she is in Italy and has Caleb."
"I am not sure if being with Caleb is the best solution for her. He isn't exactly the type of being I would have picked for my baby sister." Seth pulled away from her and crossed his arms.
"What do you mean by that," he questioned and she sighed.
"Oh, don't give me that look. You know what I mean."
"Yea, I do and that is what worries me. Are you actually saying you have a problem with her being with someone like me, a wolf?"
"No, not someone like you, you are different and you know it. Caleb is not like you. He is volatile and he doesn't exactly have a nice history with our family, especially after attacking you. You know I would never hold a grudge against someone just because of what they are, but I will hold one for attacking my mate and trying to start a war. I think Sofi deserves better than him. I am sorry. It is just how I feel." He nodded and pulled her back into his arms.
"Okay, yes, I get it. Caleb doesn't exactly have a great track record, but you are overlooking something very important. He imprinted on Sofi. He would do anything for her now."
"And you are overlooking that imprinting doesn't stop a wolf from lashing out. Jacob harmed Renesmee and I have seen Emily. Even if Sam didn't mean to, it doesn't take away her scars. An angry wolf can do some serious damage and I don't want my sister to go through that."
"Then I need you to be honest with me right now. Have you ever been scared of me," he questioned and she shook her head without hesitation.
"Of course not."
"Why?"
"You know why."
"Nope, I need you to say it," he said with a charming smile, causing her to giggle.
"Because I love and trust you, but you can't refute the facts, Seth. I love that you are optimistic and see the best in everyone, including the guy that had you mauled, but wolves can be…."
"I know. Trust me, I have been in a pack and heard the angry thoughts, but I also know what it is like to imprint and it brings a sense of peace, a tranquility that is more than I could have ever imagined. That is what Caleb feels when he is around your sister and while, yes, Sam accidentally harmed Emily it is because she didn't realize what was happening and got too close when he tried to get away from her. Jacob was going after Nahuel and Renesmee jumped in the way….."
"Yea, doesn't help your case to bring up Jacob attacking my brother…."
"But, we both know the connection between a wolf and his imprint and how powerful it is. I believe that is what has changed Caleb. It doesn't matter how angry a wolf is before that moment. When he sees his imprint, nothing else matters to him and last time I checked, Emily and Sam are happy and the whole Jacob and Renesmee situation worked out for the best, right?"
"Yes, you have a point."
"So how about we get to Italy and see how your sister and Caleb are doing before we sound the alarm," he suggested.
"You are right. I guess I should at least wait to see before I get concerned. Plus, Roman and Iris are probably watching the two of them like a hawk. I know they would never let anything happen to Sofi. Come on, let's grab our stuff and head to the main house. I am sure Zach, Josh, and Garrett will be back any minute." Seth winked at her with a smile.
"Good that gives me time to get the last of the cookies Esme made for me. I will need something to keep me occupied during the trip."
"And all this time I thought that was my job," she teased and he kissed his wife passionately before grabbing their luggage.
Nahuel sighed in relief as he placed the last of his and Renesmee's luggage by the front door of their cottage and joined his mate to lounge on the couch. He looked down at his watch and smiled.
"Finished with time to spare, I never thought you would decide on a dress. Your Aunt Alice is rubbing off on you," he teased and she playfully nudged him.
"We are going to Italy. I have to look stunning….okay I do sound like Aunt Alice, but this is going to be so much fun," she giggled. He wrapped an arm around her and closed his eyes as she snuggled into his side.
"I hope you are right. My last encounter with Roman ended well, but I am still worried that things will be tense."
"I know you are, but you two resolved your issues. Besides, soon it will be Christmas. Maybe the holiday season will put him in a great mood."
"You know before I met you, I never celebrated holidays like this and I never realized what I was missing out on. I love celebrating with you and maybe this is the best way to start over with Roman. I just hope my side of the family doesn't ruin it for everyone else."
"Oh I doubt they will have much of a choice in the matter. Aunt Alice isn't going to let anyone ruin our good time or hers. She always wants everyone happy." Nahuel nodded in agreement before kissing her tenderly. They became lost in one another as their lips meshed together, but a prompt knock on the door interrupted them as Alice marched in.
"Oh no you don't, you are not going to make me late because you two decided to become preoccupied. Chop, chop, out you go," demanded Alice and Nahuel groaned.
"Such a dictator," he grumbled.
"I heard that," called Alice as she headed back to the main house to gather the others.
Edward and Bella were hiding in their cottage, trying to relax until it was time to depart for Italy. The two of them were curled up together by the fire in their bedroom, simply enjoying each other's company.
"Thank you for blocking out everyone, love. It is nice to have some peace and quiet."
"Especially from Alice," giggled Bella and he smiled crookedly at his mate.
"Aw yes, she is definitely in dictator mode at the moment. I hope Jasper can calm her down once we are all on the plane and headed to the island."
"She just wants everything to be perfect. It is a big event. There are going to be so many vampires there, even ones we haven't met before."
"Which is why despite Charlie's disappointment, he and Sue were not invited. I know we all wanted to spend the holidays together, but I think this is for the best." Bella smirked.
"Oh yes, my dad is just so put out because of the consolation prize. Sue seemed more than happy to take us up on the offer of a trip to the Bahamas. I am sure they will have a great time. I am curious about the rest of the guests in attendance though. This is the first time that we will be meeting some of these people. What will they think of us? What will their diet be like?"
"I think that will always be the most difficult thing to accept for our family because we have so many connections to the human world, but ultimately, most vampires feed on humans and while the Volturi have made the choice to transition over to our diet, it does not mean everyone will embrace it. Do not worry too much about it, love. Alice is confident that the party will be everything she wants it to be and more."
"Well at least one of us is confident, but I guess we should never bet against Alice."
"Nope, but I am pretty sure Rose is still a bit on edge or as she calls it, being cautiously optimistic. She wants everything to go well, but she is worried about all the trouble the boys can get into while we are there."
"I can't say that I blame her. This will be the first time that Zach and Josh will be in Italy together. Throw in Seth, Garrett, and Emmett and I am pretty sure our poor sister is going to have her hands full," said Bella and Edward shook his head as he thought about all of the predicaments the boys could find themselves in while in Italy.
Rosalie let out a growl of frustration as she inspected the deep red gown she was about to pack for the trip. It was the last article of clothing she needed and yet something about it did not sit well with her.
"This dress isn't formal enough. I can't bring it," she announced and Emmett frowned in confusion as he glanced over at her, taking his eyes off of the television and his video game for a split second.
"It looks fine," he assured.
"No, it doesn't fit with the motif."
"It is a ball and you are bringing a ballroom gown. I think that fits."
"Nope, we can't go. I know Zach will be disappointed but there is no way I can show my face at that party in this gown." Emmett chuckled, which caused her to glare at him.
"This isn't funny, Em!" He turned off the television and wrapped his mate into his strong embrace. Rosalie instantly melted into him.
"I know what this is about."
"My gown is…."
"No, this is about Zach and Josh. You are worried about them."
"No, I am worried that Zach, Josh, Seth, Garrett, and you are going to get into trouble, which does tend to happen in this family."
"Rose, angel, we are going on vacation for the holidays. This is supposed to be fun. The kids are going to have a blast and so are we."
"You aren't even a little concerned about the fact that we are going to be surrounded by other vampires and Volturi guards we don't even know, and in a place we haven't even been or….."
"We are going to a party. This isn't the old Volturi. We aren't even going to Volterra, but if we were, we still wouldn't have to worry because this is a party hosted by Marcus and Didyme, not Aro or Caius or any of those other Italian bastards that are no longer around to bother us or anyone else. Marcus and Didyme invited us to this amazing island so that we can celebrate all of the great things that have happened since they became the rulers of the vampire world and I, for one, am excited." A small smile crept onto her lips as Emmett's grin and dimples deepened.
"I guess you are right. There is nothing to worry about. It is a celebration."
"Exactly, a celebration, and that is also why I need you to pack this." He held up some silky, red lingerie and she laughed as he tossed it to her.
"And when do you plan on having me wear this?" He rubbed his hands together with a mischievous grin.
"Well, how I see it, Zach is going to be pretty preoccupied exploring the island and the mainland of Sardinia while we are there, so I figured you and I could sneak off to our room and have our own celebration," he explained as he began to kiss her shoulder.
"That does sound nice," she conceded and he happily nodded.
"Don't worry babe. This is going to be a great vacation," he assured and she allowed herself to relax in her mate's arms as the thoughts of a wonderful holiday vacation consumed her.
Carlisle chuckled as he watched Alice pace back and forth in front of the main house. He and Esme were standing on the porch with their luggage along with Jasper, as the three of them eyed Alice carefully.
"I believe she is going through her mental checklist and making sure all the decisions work in her favor at the moment," whispered Jasper and Carlisle smiled adoringly at his wife.
"Maybe you should go rein her in a bit my love," suggested Carlisle. Esme glanced at Jasper, who nodded. She made her way toward Alice, but her daughter profusely shook her head.
"I do not need a pep talk. I am fine. Everything is great and going according to plan," assured Alice, but Esme pulled her in for a hug nonetheless.
"Alice, please try to relax. This is supposed to be a vacation and a celebration, not something to stress over. You know what would be the best gift you could give me for the holiday," questioned Esme and Alice sighed as she nodded.
"For me to enjoy myself and relax," answered Alice.
"Yes sweetie, just have fun. The party is planned. Stop obsessing over every detail and enjoy the fruits of your labor," suggested Esme. Alice closed her eyes and was silent for a moment before a brilliant smile appeared on her lips.
"You are right. All is well and I can relax now, especially since Zach, Josh, and Garrett have arrived with Jake and Leah just in time to meet the plane," announced Alice and before any of them could question her, the sound of the ferry drawing closer to the shore could be heard. Next, the sound of a jet plane drawing near echoed around them, but Carlisle frowned when he looked up toward the sky and saw nothing.
"It sounds like it is right over us," said Carlisle and Jasper shook his head in disbelief as he pointed toward the front lawn.
"I do believe our hosts have outdone themselves. It is a stealth aircraft. State of the art and invisible to the eye," explained Jasper. Alice clapped happily as a luxurious jet slowly materialized in front of them and landed on the spacious lawn just in time for Josh, Zach, Garrett, Leah, and Jacob to see it.
"That is awesome," exclaimed Zach as he ran over to study the aircraft along with Josh. One of the doors descended to the ground and extended to form stairs. Alexander and Lena greeted the boys with warm smiles and waves.
"What do you think, it is brand new," questioned Alexander and Zach high-fived him.
"This is so cool. I want one. Can I get one," asked Zach. Lena winked at him.
"Sorry, but this was specially made. There isn't another like it in existence," said Lena. Josh jogged up the stairs of the plane and poked his head inside to get a closer look.
"Dude, Z, check out the video games," yelled Josh and Zach was instantly by his side.
"Whoa," shouted Zach and Alexander chuckled.
"We have been told to make sure everyone has an enjoyable trip. We have plenty of books, games, films, and other sources of entertainment for all. Plus, for those who prefer to eat and sleep, there is a crew available to make whatever you like and bedrooms toward the back of the plane. Is everyone ready," asked Alexander and Alice nodded as she saw the Denalis exit the main house and the rest of the Cullens approach from their cottages.
"Everyone is ready to go," announced Alice and Lena snapped her fingers. Four vampires emerged from the plane and briskly gathered the luggage. Eleazar walked over to Carlisle.
"Notice the eyes," whispered Eleazar and Carlisle frowned in confusion. Lena noticed their looks and answered their unspoken question.
"It is their choice to follow an animal diet like us. I believe it is mainly out of respect for Marcus and Didyme. They gave many vampires a place to prosper when many were desolate and in despair. Aro and Caius did not only conquer. They left vampires without shelters or any material possessions, yet condemned them when they fed thirstily on humans and risked exposure. Not all of the guard is composed of fighters. Some are workers, simply searching for a purpose in their lives that goes beyond constantly obsessing about thirst. We give them a place to call home, a place where they can exist without judgment, and in turn they find ways to be productive. This crew is not comprised of servants. Marcus and Didyme do not believe in such things. They are pilots that help us to get from place to place quickly," explained Lena.
"Aro believed in enslaving vampires and humans alike to do his bidding. They stayed in line because they feared him. What motivates these people," asked Eleazar and Lena smiled as she glanced over at the pilots.
"I am sure they can answer that," she said as one of the pilots chuckled.
"Two things, incentives and status, not only are we known as members of the Volturi, but we get rewarded in ways we never thought possible. It is an honor to work for Marcus and Didyme. It helps that we get to fly the most technologically advanced aircrafts in the world," explained one of the pilots and Zach nodded in awe.
"I bet it does," he mumbled and let out a low whistle as he admired the stealth jet again.
"Z, they have games that won't be released until next year," exclaimed Josh and Zach pumped his fist as he ran inside. Jacob grinned from ear to ear.
"Well I think you have our son's approval," said Jacob and Alexander smiled mischievously at him.
"You know Jake I hear you and Emmett enjoy a video game or two. I am a pretty good gamer if I say so myself. Are you up for a little competition," challenged Alexander and Jacob crossed his arms with a sly smirk.
"Oh I think we can handle that. Come on Em, let's show him what we got," called Jacob and Garrett huffed as he followed Emmett and Jacob onto the plane.
"What am I, chopped liver," whined Garrett as the others laughed at the men's excitement. Tanya slipped her hand into Benjamin's and winked at him.
"I know you want to join in. I will cheer you on," she assured and Benjamin kissed her in thanks before leading her onto the plane. Everyone began to file onto the plane and found that there were plenty of things to keep them occupied. Carlisle smiled graciously at Lena as he and Esme made themselves comfortable in a lounge area full of books.
"Thank you for doing all of this for us," said Carlisle and Lena waved him off.
"Marcus and Didyme would have nothing but the best for you. We are happy to do it. After all, it is a time for celebration," assured Lena. Esme sighed happily as she looked at her family getting settled on the plane. Alice and Carmen were perusing fashion and interior design magazines while they sat close to their mates who were already bantering back and forth. Eleazar and Jasper were setting up a game of chess and already thinking of strategies. Zafrina and Kaya giggled at their mates as Seth and Keegan argued over which action movie would be the best to watch. Rosalie and Leah were curled up on a couch near the largest televisions and consoles talking about what they planned to do in Italy. All the while, Zach, Josh, Emmett, Jacob, Alexander, Garrett, and Benjamin decided who would be on teams as their video game started up. Tanya and Kate sat by their mates, ready to suggest strategies to win the game whenever needed. What made Esme smile the most was seeing Edward and Renesmee sit down at a baby grand piano toward the back of the plane. Bella and Nahuel sat across from their mates with adoring smiles and books in their hands as Renesmee followed her father's lead. The sound of music in the air made Esme's grin widen and she nodded.
"A time for celebration indeed, this will be a wonderful trip," agreed Esme and with that, the doors closed and pilots prepared for take-off. Italy was their destination.