Disclaimer: Meyer owns all of the original characters and plot of Twilight.
AN: Well, it never fails. Just when I think I am done with the Renesmee's Choice Series, another idea pops in my head and I must continue it. This story takes place after Leah's Choice, so if you have not read any of the other stories…Renesmee's Choice, Seth's Choice, Consequences, Rosalie's Choice, and Leah's Choice….then I suggest you read those first. Here is Jasper's Choice and I hope you read, enjoy, and review!
Chapter 1
The holiday season had every member of the Cullen family in a euphoric mood. While Carlisle suggested that the family move to the island Marcus and Didyme bestowed upon them after the holidays, Alice and Esme had other plans. Both women wanted the family to spend their first Christmas together in their new home and Rosalie was more than happy to dive into the festivities. She wanted her son to be able to enjoy Christmas in a way that the vampires rarely did. Time blurred by in such a long existence and birthdays and special holidays were sometimes overlooked. Rosalie was never one to celebrate much. She did not find her existence worthy of much celebration until she and Emmett were able to complete their family and making sure Zach enjoyed the festivities became a priority for everyone. As a result, the family moved from their home in Hoquiam and, with much planning on Alice's part, was able to move onto the island and have the mansion decorated by Christmas. Garrett was adamant about staying close to the Cullens, just in case any excitement occurred, and the Denali clan was more than happy to join in on the fun. Gifts were exchanged, games were played, and carols were sung. It felt natural, almost normal, even for a group of supernatural beings that had been through so much over the years.
The island was a welcomed change and after the bustle of the holidays, everyone concentrated on making it their home. As a whole, the island was sixty seven acres of meadows, stands of majestic Fir, Cedar, and groves, and a small beach of sand and boulders situation on the east end of the property. They were surrounded by nature and their home was luxurious beyond their expectations. Emmett and Seth turned the spacious den into a game room with a large entertainment center for all their video games. Jasper and Carlisle filled the study with books and historical maps. Rosalie organized the four car garage and Bella and Edward added their book collection to the massive library on the second floor of the three story house. Alice flitted around the house decorating each room while Esme made sure the kitchen was well equipped. Renesmee, Kaya, and Nahuel stocked the pantry, freezer, and refrigerator with food while the Denalis entertained Zach.
He was new to the idea of moving and was not fond of it already, but with vampires doing the tasks, it did not take long to settle in. While there were four cottages on the island, everyone preferred to stay in the main house, only leaving to go hunt in the Olympic Forest, which was an hour away from their location. Marcus and Didyme planned the location of the island perfectly. They were secluded from humans, yet only a swim away from their usual hunting grounds. Plus, there were three boats, two yachts, and a customized ferry to hold their cars when they wanted to venture out. Everything they could possibly think of was on the island and they adored their new home.
Once Alice and Esme inspected the house and were satisfied, everyone fell into a routine. It was the first day of January, the start of another year, and spirits were high. The sound of laughter was a constant and Jasper was buzzing with the blissfulness of his family's happiness. Eleazar and Carlisle were in the study sharing stories about times far behind them. Garrett and Benjamin refused to pass up a chance to help Zach harness his abilities and were in the yard with Emmett and Jasper teaching Zach how to benefit from his powers. Bella and Edward were in the living room playing a competitive game of chess since she was the only one who could have a fair chance against him besides Alice, while Renesmee taught Kaya how to play the piano. Seth and Nahuel were bickering back and forth as they played a video game, which made their mates shake their heads as their voices carried throughout the house. Kate, Carmen, and Tanya ventured out to Victoria where much shopping could be done while they also explored the area. Rosalie helped Esme in the kitchen and the two of them finished making yet another fresh batch of cookies.
"You know you spoil him with all of these cookies. The boy is thirty eight years old, but will pout if you do not make them for him," teased Rosalie as they cleaned up the kitchen and the last of the cookies baked in the oven. Esme scoffed.
"Really, are you trying to tease me about how Seth can get over on me because last time I checked, you were the one who could not resist his puppy dog eyes?"
"Pun intended," asked Rosalie and they giggled. She glanced at the oven. "When will the cookies be ready?"
"Trust me, Seth will know," informed Esme and before Rosalie could question her, Seth's voice echoed through the house.
"I smell cookies," he announced and Esme winked at her.
"See," she giggled. Seth hurried down the stairs, but as soon as he entered the kitchen, Nahuel blurred past him, opened the oven, and grabbed a cookie. Seth's jaw dropped as Nahuel hopped onto the counter with a smug smile and ate a chocolate chip cookie.
"These are delicious Esme," complimented Nahuel and Rosalie had to bite her tongue to stop from laughing at Seth's shocked expression.
"Those are mine! That's it Nahuel, you can beat me in a race or wrestling, you can even top my score in Halo, but you never, ever eat my cookies. Let's take this outside," demanded Seth and Nahuel smirked as he hopped down from the counter. He pulled out the sheet of cookies and ate another one.
"You forgot I beat you at chess too," he taunted. Seth took a step toward him as Nahuel laughed, but Esme shook her head.
"There will be no fighting in this house and I knew this would happen. Seth, that was not the first batch I made, here you go sweetie," she explained as she grabbed a Ziploc bag of cookies and handed them to him. Nahuel rolled his eyes and Seth sighed happily.
"Oh Esme you do love me," he cooed as he hugged her and she kissed his cheek.
"Of course I do now you two play nice," she said and Nahuel winked at her.
"You spoil us, but I think we all know who you spoil the most and I am not talking about the two year old in the house," teased Nahuel and Seth raised an eyebrow.
"Was that directed toward me," he asked and Nahuel ruffled his hair.
"Oh poor Seth is getting picked on. I better be careful or you'll get your mommy." Rosalie glanced at Seth who smirked and crossed his arms.
"Oh I know she could take you, but don't worry. I won't let Rose kick your butt. I have something better in mind." Nahuel's eyes widened and he looked back and forth between Rosalie and Seth.
"No, no, no, I meant Sue, not Rose. I did not mean it that….."
"Don't worry Nahuel, I won't tell my mommy to beat you up….yet," taunted Seth as he walked out and Nahuel gulped as Rosalie giggled.
"Seth, wait, let's talk about this," he tried to reason as he followed Seth out and Esme shook her head with a smile.
"I pity anyone who messes with Zach or Seth. I have seen your mean streak," teased Esme and Rosalie smirked.
"I have seen yours as well. You might be sweet, but I have seen you in battle. No one should dare mess with Mama Cullen or her cubs," she teased back, but then frowned as she thought for a moment.
"What," asked Esme.
"Seth isn't one to turn down a fight, especially after Nahuel ate his cookies."
"That boy and his cookies, I think he is addicted. Maybe I should try weaning him off by…." Suddenly, Nahuel's yell from outside made them run to the door just in time to see him tumble into a tree, tipping it over in the process. Rosalie gritted her teeth as everyone else inside the house joined her and Esme on the porch to see what happened. Zach and Seth high fived, Emmett was rolling on the ground in hysterical laughter along with Garrett, and Jasper and Benjamin shook their heads. Renesmee ran over to her mate as he made it to his feet.
"Aunt Rose," said Renesmee and Zach, Seth, and Emmett gasped as Rosalie marched over to them.
"Zachary Carlisle McCarty Cullen, what did I tell you about using your power," she scolded and he looked down as Seth sighed.
"Rose, it was my fault and…."
"I know it was Seth. Stop using him to get back at people. He is not your personal weapon and Emmett, it is not funny," she shouted, but Emmett could not stop smiling.
"But….but my baby boy is just getting so big and strong. I am so proud," he said pretending to wipe a tear and Renesmee shook her head as she walked over to them with Nahuel.
"Uncle Emmett, he could have hurt him," she warned, but Emmett scoffed.
"He is fine and I knew he wouldn't hurt him….even if Nahuel is a half breed," he laughed and Garrett was laughing so hard on the ground he could not make a sound. His body shook with mirth, but Esme was not as amused as she assessed the damage. The tree Nahuel fell into was lifted from its roots and leaning against another tree beside it. A sizable hole and clumped up dirt lay in the wreckage and she crossed her arms.
"We just got here and you are already destroying the beautiful gift we were given," she asked Seth and he looked down. Zach pushed out his bottom lip as he held his arms up to his grandmother. Esme scooped him up and he kissed her cheek.
"Sorry grandma," he said with an apologetic smile and she winked at him.
"It is okay sweetie. Just do not listen to your big brother. He will get you in trouble. Seth, cookies," she said holding out her hand for the bag of cookies in his hand and he gasped.
"Wait, I can fix this," he assured and Kaya shook her head as her mate frantically ran over to Benjamin. "Ben, come on, I know you can make it better. It is just uprooted."
"I don't know Seth. What's in it for me? I don't like cookies," teased Benjamin and Seth groaned.
"Oh come on, not you too. Don't do it for me. Do it for Esme…..and for my cookies," he pleaded.
"Fine, but you owe me and stop getting Zach to do your dirty work," he advised and concentrated on the tree. He walked over to it, placed it back into its spot, and rooted it back into the ground where it belonged with ease. Esme smiled appreciatively at him, but Rosalie was not as forgiving.
"Seth, you and Nahuel keep my little boy out of your bickering. Zach, I know you look up to your big brother, but we do not use our powers on family, understand," she asked and he nodded as he hugged his mother.
"Understand," agreed Zach as Seth ruffled his curly blond hair.
"Sorry Z, I didn't mean to get you in trouble. Esme….please….please don't take my cookies. You saw him teasing me."
"Yes I did, but you two need to learn how to play nice or there will be no more cookies in this house," she informed and Seth, Nahuel, Renesmee, and Kaya gasped. Seth's jaw dropped and he held his hand over his heart.
"That hurts, that really hurts," said Seth as he sulked and Renesmee gave her grandmother a pout.
"You know grandma, they were just playing. You do not have to be so cruel about it," she said as she looked down and pouted as well. Nahuel nodded.
"We meant no harm," he added and Kaya shook her head.
"Sad, sad day," she said with a sad smile. Esme's defenses faltered seeing how devastated they were by her words.
"Okay, I take it back…"
"Thanks Esme, you're the best," cheered Seth and he followed a smiling Kaya, Renesmee, and Nahuel inside as Esme stood there dumbfounded. Rosalie wrapped an arm around her mother with a smug smile.
"I do believe the puppy dog eyes work on you as well and let's be honest. You were never able to resist Renesmee," she teased before taking Zach inside for a bath. Bella winked at Esme from the doorway as the others tried not to laugh.
"Don't feel bad mom. You were outnumbered," comforted Bella and Esme shook her head with a smile.
"Yes, I suppose I was," she agreed. Edward laughed as he read her thoughts. She was not upset, the opposite really. She had a house full of children to watch over and she could not be happier. Edward glanced at Jasper and read his mind, which was surprisingly troubled. He looked around for Alice and realized what Jasper was worried about. The two of them waited until the others dispersed before standing on the porch to speak.
"She did not go with Carmen, Tanya, and Kate into Victoria for shopping. That was my first red flag, but I believe something has been wrong for a couple of days now," informed Jasper and Edward slowly nodded.
"She has been blocking me and I did not even realize it. I thought she was listing things constantly because of her excitement over the move," agreed Edward.
"Her emotions were difficult to read. She knows how to control them around me and I noticed she was anxious." Bella walked over to them and frowned in confusion.
"Something is wrong with Alice," she asked, but Edward shook his head.
"Nothing to worry about, love, come for a walk with me. Jasper, I will let you know if I find out anything," said Edward.
"She said she wanted to give the island one last once over. You know she is constantly thinking of things to do," said Jasper and they both nodded before racing into the wooded area surrounding the house. Edward was quiet as they started up a cliff and Bella sighed.
"You know something don't you?"
"I know Alice. She is hiding something from me and from Jasper, which worries me."
"Do you think she is in trouble?"
"I do not know, but we are about to find out," said Edward and Bella gave a small smile when she saw Alice sitting at the top of the cliff with her legs crossed underneath her like a child. She stared out at the water, the waves crashing into the rocks below, and her eyes barely focused as Edward and Bella sat on either side of her. They waited patiently until she found the words to say.
"Everyone is so happy right now. At Christmas, for the first time in a long time, it was like everyone was at peace. I have never seen Rosalie and Emmett look so happy when Zach opened his presents. Hearing Carlisle tell Christmas stories by the fire, Esme humming carols as she baked cookies, it was all so perfect."
"Alice, what have you seen," asked Edward as Bella slipped her hand into Alice's, bracing for the worst.
"I saw it the day after Christmas. Zafrina's decision triggered it, but I was not expecting to see it so clearly."
"See what Alice, tell us what you saw," asked Bella and Alice closed her eyes as she let her thoughts flow freely. Edward immediately stiffened as he read her mind and gulped.
"Jasper….." Alice cut him off.
"Cannot know about this, it does not concern him."
"And we are supposed to turn our backs on those who have helped us before? That will not work and it is not your choice to make."
"It is a choice I will make," shouted Alice and Bella jumped at the fury in Alice's eyes. She had never seen her sister so angry before and it frightened her.
"Tell me what is going on," demanded Bella and Edward and Alice locked eyes as he read her thoughts. Bella could tell they were having a silent conversation, Alice with her thoughts and Edward through his expressions. They finally broke eye contact and he held the bridge of his nose.
"Zafrina is arriving today. She needs our help. She returned home to the Amazons last month to find her coven gone. Other vampires took over their territory," confessed Edward and Bella gasped.
"Senna and Kachiri, were they killed?"
"No, they fled to Chile, but that is not what worries us," informed Edward. Alice looked away and Bella gritted her teeth.
"Okay seriously, this secretive stuff is starting to get on my nerves. What am I missing? What are you worried about?" Edward sighed and looked at his sister sympathetically. One word made Bella stiffen and realize the severity of the situation.
"Maria," he whispered. With that word, silence fell over them, and they each were lost in thought.
Zafrina sighed in relief as she pulled her boat onto the sandy shore of the east side of the island. It had been a long trip full of anxiety, but she knew getting to the Cullens was necessary if there was any hope of saving her coven. While she was not as connected to Kachiri and Senna as she had been in the past, they were still important in her existence. The three of them had been together before she even knew the Cullen coven existed, but she was intrigued by their way of life. Their concept of family, even if they were vampires, made their connections stronger than any she had ever seen and she gravitated toward them and the Denalis. Fighting alongside them created a bond she never could have fathomed and she hoped that they would stand beside her in her time of need. Edward, Alice, and Bella appeared on the shore and she smiled at them as she approached. The waxing gibbous moon hung high in the sky, illuminating the island along with the lights from the main house.
"I hoped you would see me coming. There is not much time," she explained and Edward nodded.
"We know and the three of us have been trying to decide the best course of action," he informed.
"The three of you, you have not told the others? I do not know how much time we have. We must go," she urged.
"The moon tells me we have time. In my visions, they are blurry, but I see the full moon."
"Even then we only have three days starting tomorrow and there is much to do. We must inform the others," said Zafrina taking a step toward the house, but Alice stepped in front of her. Zafrina looked at her cautiously and Bella sighed.
"There is a complication. We know who has taken over your territory," explained Bella and Zafrina scoffed.
"Then why did you not mention that sooner? Who is it?"
"It is Maria," confessed Bella as Alice looked down. Zafrina's eyes widened as realization dawned on her.
"I see. So you will turn your back on me and my coven after all I have done…." Edward interrupted her.
"Of course not, we are going to help you. We just do not know if Jasper should be involved. The two of them have a very….deep past and we do not want to do anything that could….." Edward suddenly stopped and groaned as Jasper appeared.
"Talking about me," he asked with a curious look and Alice looked away as he walked over to them. "I am surprised you did not see me coming. Which means you are concentrating entirely too hard on something else."
"Jasper," tried Alice, but he turned to Zafrina.
"Zafrina, we will help you. I know Maria's strategies. I am sure they have not changed that much, which means we need to move quickly." Alice shook her head.
"You do not have to do this. Maria….."
"Is a part of my past and I cannot believe you question my loyalty to you, my mate."
"Jazz, it isn't that…."
"It does not matter right now. Zafrina, let's go tell the others," he said and she followed him to the house as Alice glared at Edward. He smirked.
"Hey, do not look at me. I had Bella block my mind because your thoughts were all over the place. I did not hear him coming and you know he can sneak up on people. Come on, the secret is out and now we have to deal with it." Alice gave a curt nod and followed Bella and Edward back to the house. There was much to discuss.
Tanya, Carmen, and Kate arrived back at the island earlier that afternoon and everyone gathered in the living room to hear what Zafrina had to say. Zach listened intently as he sat in his mother's lap with his father beside him. Kaya and Seth were on the other side of Rosalie with their fingers intertwined. Alice stood close to Jasper and watched him closely as he listened to Zafrina speak. The Denalis stood beside each other, glancing at their mates, while Bella and Edward sat by their daughter and Nahuel. Carlisle and Esme stood by Zafrina as she recounted the events that led to her arrival.
"I knew something was wrong when I landed in Brazil. I could feel it in the air. I noticed several vampires as I raced back to the rainforest. Nomads roam in Brazil, but these seemed to be territorial. When I reached the Amazons, I did not find Kachiri or Senna, but the scent of other vampires was close. It took time, but I was able to track Kachiri's scent. It is familiar to me after all this time and she was in Chile with Senna. They remembered Nahuel's tale about his tribe, the Mapuche, and went there for help," she explained and Jasper smirked as he shook his head deep in thought.
"I knew she would head there one day. South America….not really her style, but she knew she could not have Mexico," he mumbled mostly to himself and Seth frowned.
"Who are you talking about and what does she have to do with Kaya and Nahuel's people," he asked.
"Maria, she is trying to conquer South America. Leave it to her to try the impossible, controlling an entire continent," said Jasper and Zafrina nodded.
"Word of her power is spreading. Senna and Kachiri did not know her name, only that she was coming for more territory. She seized the rainforest and all of the northern territory. Chile is next and they are staying with Huilen in the southern region. Maria isn't using newborns. I do know that much."
"She learned from her past. You can't control newborns, but you can train vampires who want the same things that you do. They are probably large in number, but she and one other are controlling them. That is her style. She never has too many commanders. She loves the power too much." Carlisle slowly nodded.
"I will call Marcus for help. One vampire having that much control over a continent is something I am sure he would like to look into. We could be there by tomorrow. Alice, how much time do we have," asked Carlisle and everyone looked at her as she looked down.
"The full moon is Thursday night. That is when they will head for Chile," she whispered and Carlisle nodded.
"We have plenty of time. It is Monday night. We can be in Chile by tomorrow if we leave soon. Nahuel, I assume you and Kaya will be our tour guides," asked Carlisle and Nahuel nodded.
"I am sure Huilen is terrified. She has always lived in a secluded area and never wanted trouble. We have to get to her before Maria and her army does. Flying into Concepcion, Chile would be best. All of us will be able to run from there." Esme glanced at Zach and Rosalie.
"The question is, who does all of us include," she asked and Emmett looked at his wife and son before standing.
"Zafrina, we wish you and your coven the best. You know that if….." Zafrina put up her hand to silence him.
"Emmett, you do not have to explain and I do not believe it would be wise for Zach to go. I have grown very fond of him as well and while we have fought in many battles together, I believe, the three of you should sit this one out," she informed and he nodded as Zach frowned.
"I want to go," pouted Zach, but Seth shook his head.
"Trust me Z, this isn't an adventure. There are some really bad vampires trying to hurt people we care about. I can't worry about you being safe while I am out kicking butt. So you, mommy, and daddy should stay here," said Seth and Rosalie raised an eyebrow at him, which made him sigh.
"Alright, go ahead and get it over with Rose. Forbid me from going. Tell me it isn't happening and threaten me, but at the end of the day we both know I am going to be by Kaya's side and she will be by Nahuel's." Everyone glanced at Rosalie and she took in a deep breath before crossing her arms.
"You are not a child….even though you still act like one and I cannot stop you…even though I want to. You know where I stand, but I understand your ties to the situation. Stay safe, protect Kaya, and Seth Clearwater if you do not return I am going to kill you." He chuckled and smiled at her.
"Stay safe, protect Kaya, and if I die, I die, got it," he said with a nod and she hugged him. Carlisle looked at everyone else.
"We understand if anyone else feels the need to stay behind," he said glancing at the Denalis and Garrett scoffed.
"Are you kidding me? This is why we were hanging around…." Kate cut him off.
"That is not why….." Garrett cut her off.
"Don't listen to her. This was my plan all along. We finally are on time to go kick some butt and this time, I better get to dismember somebody," he announced and Kate slapped him upside the back of his head as Zafrina smiled.
"So then you will all help," she asked and Bella held her hand.
"You have helped us when you didn't have to. This is the least we can do. Zafrina, of course we will go to Chile with you. Besides, I believe there are several people in this room who have close ties involved," she said glancing at Nahuel and Kaya who nodded.
"I have to help Huilen," said Nahuel.
"And I do as well. Chile was my home before I knew there was a better one for me," said Kaya before kissing Seth's hand.
"My place is by her side," added Seth and Renesmee slipped her hand into Nahuel's.
"Huilen's home used to be Nahuel's and she is part of the family even if she has no desire to be. I will stand by my husband just like he has stood by me time and time again." Carlisle pulled out his cell phone and looked at Eleazar.
"We have calls to make. You call Marcus and I will book the tickets," instructed Carlisle and Eleazar nodded as he pulled out his cell phone as well. Jasper looked at Nahuel.
"How about you tell us a bit more about the tribe your aunt belongs to," suggested Jasper and Nahuel sighed.
"Well, the tribe is called the Mapuches and they are a group of indigenous people that live all over southwest Chile. Once I was born and Huilen was turned, we left the small group that she belonged to and ventured into what is known today as Laguna del Laja. It is a national park in the Andes. We are not bothered there and lived like others in our tribe did. It will be easy to hunt. There are plenty of animals and the best way to get there is to run east after we land in Concepcion. Why would Maria want to take over the tribes though?"
"It has nothing to do with the tribes and she does not have remorse for people. She does not know our connection to it. I believe it was all a coincidence. Maria loves power. She thrives on it and the more I think about it, the more it makes sense. South America is populated to the point that no one would notice people disappearing. Vampires would target the poor who would not be missed and violence is an issue all throughout the continent. Corrupt government, surges in power, and deaths due to poverty or disease are known in the human world of South America. Her army could thrive there without being noticed. Humans would see it as life as usual, all the while an evil has consumed their land," explained Jasper. Garrett gave a sympathetic smile.
"Speaking of Maria, is there anything we should know about her? I mean, if one of us happened to kill her, would you feel the need to seek revenge or….."
"Garrett," warned Kate and Jasper chuckled.
"Don't worry Kate. I suppose my past with Maria is one that has some of you curious. I did not know what love was when I was with her. I thought she was my mate, but Alice completely proved me wrong. Maria is nothing to me but a part of my past. She sought us out once when we were living in Calgary. It wasn't the best memory and I told her to keep her distance. Until now, our paths have not crossed again. I should warn you though. She is….Maria should not be underestimated. She has managed to survive thousands of battles and slip under the Volturi's radar her whole existence. Do not take her lightly," he warned and everyone nodded. Kaya slowly stood up.
"We should start packing. Come on Seth," said Kaya and Seth glanced at Rosalie who nodded.
"You should get ready. Besides, I fear I have a phone call to make," said Rosalie and Seth's eyes widened.
"Rose, you don't have to….."
"Seth, I can't keep this a secret," said Rosalie and he nodded as she pulled out her phone and went outside. Jasper walked upstairs and Alice quickly followed him to their room. He pulled out a small, black duffle bag and began packing as she watched him.
"I know you are upset with me," she confessed.
"Why would I be upset?"
"Jasper…."
"Alice, do you trust me?"
"Of course I do."
"Then why? Why did you feel the need to hide this from me? We could have been preparing for Zafrina's arrival, but instead you waited. You could have wasted precious time."
"I knew what I was doing."
"And what was that?"
"Trying to protect you," she shouted and he looked away as she regained composure. She pulled him over to her and looked into his eyes.
"I know what she put you through, the mind games and the guilt. You are my mate and I will protect you with my life. Do not think for one second that this does not affect me. I hate that woman like I have never hated anyone in my existence." He pulled her into his arms and swayed from side to side as he stared lovingly into her eyes.
"I need you to trust me when I say this. Maria is nothing to me anymore. She moved on with her existence and I found you, my mate, my wife, and no one can replace you in my heart. We are going because Zafrina and Huilen need our help. That is the least we can do. We searched for them when we needed help and they aided us even though they had everything to lose by being so close to the Volturi and on our side. I know Maria. She will not stop until there is nothing left to conquer. We have to stop her for their sake."
"I know and I do trust you. I love you Jasper. I just wanted to protect you from this." He leaned his forehead against hers and gave a charming smile.
"Well darling, you being by my side will be all the protection I need. After all, you are one frightening little monster," he teased in his Southern drawl and she smiled back at him as she nodded.
Rosalie paced on the front lawn as she looked down at her cell phone. Her finger was on the call button, the light on the screen hovering over Leah's number, and she pushed it before she could lose her courage. It rang three times before Leah answered in a groggy tone.
"Hello," she asked and Rosalie winced.
"Sorry, I didn't think you would be asleep."
"Yea, crazy how that works, us mere humans have to get this thing called sleep. You close your eyes, snuggle into bed…."
"I am aware. We have four people in the house who actually do the same thing."
"Alright so give it to me straight. What is the danger?"
"How do you know I just didn't call to say hello?"
"Because it is nine at night and you don't call this late." Rosalie scoffed.
"I didn't know you slept like a senior citizen."
"Yea well at least I am not the age of a senior citizen….wait they probably seem young compared to you."
"Ha, ha, that was so funny."
"Sorry, I don't know what old people find humorous. I don't have any 'back in my day' jokes."
"Shut up"
"Whatever old lady," mumbled Leah and they both laughed before the silence snuck back in. Rosalie sighed.
"There is a problem. It seems Jasper's old partner in crime, Maria, has decided to leave her mark on South America. Unfortunately for us, she has already taken over the Amazons and is heading toward Nahuel's old home."
"Is Zafrina alright? What about Nahuel's aunt?"
"Zafrina is fine. Her coven is with Huilen as we speak and Maria hasn't reached them yet, but she will by the full moon. Thursday night, she strikes. You know the deal, battle, blasts from the past, the Volturi….this time on our side…and who knows what else."
"You aren't letting Zach go are you?"
"Of course not, it is far too dangerous. We are staying behind again, something I am sure Emmett will whine about."
"Oh, I get it now. So you are calling me to tell me that Seth is going into a danger zone, surprise, surprise, and you just want to make sure I know."
"Yes, pretty much." They were silent for a moment before Leah spoke again.
"You can't always protect him, Rose. I don't have to see your face right now to know that you hate this. You hate your family being in danger, but Seth isn't a little boy. He is thirty eight years old. He is a man and will make his own decisions. I have accepted that and you have to as well."
"Before Zach, I would have easily gone with him to make sure he stayed out of trouble…."
"But that was before you had a little one of your own and things change. I get it. Zach is way too young and even with his amazing gifts, you are his mother. My brother is a big boy now and while I will never admit it to his face, he is a very good fighter. He has more experience than the rest of the pack and I know that if something happened to him, it would be because he was doing the right thing, protecting his family."
"So you aren't mad?"
"When have you ever cared if I was mad at you," teased Leah to lighten the mood and Rosalie rolled her eyes.
"This is true."
"So, when are they heading out?"
"Tonight as soon as they get the flight arrangements, it is a long plane ride."
"Well, you could stay on that lavish island of yours or I could leave the light on for you and you three could spend some time in La Push. Joshua misses his playmate and it is better than you driving Emmett crazy while you worry about Seth. Stay with us until the dust settles."
"You sure you want to hang out with an old lady?"
"Yea sure, I'll pick up some Depends and take you to an early bird special….."
"I hate you." Leah laughed and Rosalie heard Jacob in the background.
"Babe, come back to bed," he grumbled and Rosalie smirked.
"Tell the mutt you'll rub his belly if he quiets down. We're talking here."
"That would start a whole new discussion now wouldn't it? Don't get him riled up."
"You're right. I can do that when I get there."
"Tell my brother he better be safe."
"Alright, get some sleep, goodnight."
"Goodnight." With that, they hung up and Rosalie took in a deep breath. Leah was right. Rosalie could not protect Seth forever. He was an adult and had to make his own choices. She turned around to see most of her family filing out of the house with small bags. Esme handed car keys to Alice, Edward, and Garrett while Carlisle and Eleazar discussed how long it would take for the ferry to reach Vancouver. Zach and Emmett stood on the porch feeling completely left out and everyone hugged Zach goodbye. Seth ruffled his hair with a smile.
"Cheer up Z, I don't even think you would like Chile and besides, the plane ride is going to be very boring. I'll make sure to kick some extra butt just for you." Zach frowned and pointed his finger at Seth. His expression was stern and in that moment, he looked like his mother.
"Seth Clearwater, don't you dare get hurt or you will be in big trouble, understand," he warned and Seth chuckled as he looked at Rosalie.
"He learned from the best I see. Don't worry guys, we will all be safe and I know everyone will be relieved that we don't have to worry about Emmett causing trouble or something happening to the youngest of the bunch," teased Seth and Rosalie picked up Zach before embracing Seth.
"Be careful," she whispered in Seth's ear and he nodded. Everyone hugged and said their goodbyes knowing it was hard for the three of them to stay behind. The cars were ready to go with Alice in her Porsche Cayenne, Edward in his Volvo SUV, and Garrett and Esme bringing up the rear in two Suburbans. Everyone got into the cars and Carlisle kissed Rosalie and Zach's cheeks one last time.
"Rose, we will call when we arrive in Chile. We're taking the ferry over to Vancouver. You should take the super yacht to La Push," he informed and she nodded.
"Be safe," she said as she hugged him and he smiled before getting into the Suburban with Esme, Zafrina, Eleazar, and Carmen. Renesmee and Nahuel waved at them from the Volvo and Seth stuck his head out of the window of Alice's SUV.
"Don't look so sad and if you are going to see Leah, give my nephew a hug for me, I'll call later," he said and Rosalie smirked.
"You better," she said and Zach nodded his agreement. Garrett honked the horn and Kate swatted at him as Tanya and Benjamin shook their heads in amusement. Edward led the way and they headed away from the house and toward the east shore where the ferry waited to take them to Vancouver. Emmett wrapped his arms around his wife and son.
"They will be fine," he assured and she kissed him.
"Are you disappointed that you couldn't go?" He shrugged.
"A little, but I am relieved that me not going means that Zach is safe and no where near Chile right now. Besides, now I can go make fun of Jake and you two can have fun with your friends," he said as he found the bright side like usual. She giggled and kissed Zach's curly hair.
"Let's go pack some clothes," she said and Zach clapped.
"Can we go now," he asked and Rosalie smiled.
"Leah did say she would leave the light on for us. We can go hunt when we arrive," agreed Rosalie and they all went inside to get ready to head back to Washington.