The Alaskan Vampires

"We're home," Edward said loudly as we stepped into the entry hall of our 3-story apartment. We had been away for a full week, actually leaving the island so we could get some bigger game; it had been a while since I had had anything substantial, and my self-control had been beginning to dwindle. Alice had come with us, but had only stayed for 5 days because of some finals she had to take care of.

"Welcome back you two," Alice said, greeting Edward as we climbed the stairs into the spacious living room on the second floor.

"How was the selection this week? Alice said there was a major overpopulation of black bears. I wish I could have gone with you…" Emmett muttered sadly.

"You heard correctly," Edward chuckled. "Too bad about that ancient philosophy final, huh?"

"Edward," I started, "don't tease him, it's not his fault. Of course, you definitely would have had more fun than usual this trip, Emmett. There were plenty of bears to go around," I added jokingly.

It had been four years, four glorious years since I'd joined the Cullens. Of course, I still hadn't gained full control over my thirst, but I was beginning to get my bearings and before long, I would really be able to venture out and explore the sprawling university town of St. John's for the first time. We were currently living in Newfoundland, Canada in a large apartment overlooking St John's Harbor. Our apartment was one of those warehouses turned posh apartment complex, and it was perfect for us. Not only was St John's home to Memorial University, but it also happened to be the cloudiest city in Canada.

The only downside was the somewhat limited wildlife. Of course our living arrangements weren't permanent, it was almost the end of April and with that came our now annual summer vacation to visit the Alaskan Vampires. Although it would be the fourth year for the rest of the family, it would be my first trip to see Tanya and her coven. The thought of it made me extremely nervous, and it must have shown on my face. "What is it Bella?" Edward questioned with way too much concern in post-hunting golden eyes.

"It's nothing I just…I'm worried about next month, that's all."

" Um…about that," Edward said uncomfortably.

"What?" I snapped.

"Well, we're actually leaving a couple weeks early…"

"Jasper convinced his Physiology professor to let him take his final this week, instead of two weeks from now. Isn't that great?" Alice said brightly.

"Bella, honestly there is nothing to stress about. Everyone is looking forward to meeting you," Edward soothed.

"Yeah, everyone except Irina," Emmett added with a smirk.

"You know Bella, she doesn't seem to want to do anything rash to you. I've been keeping a close watch on her; from what I can see, she won't be too wretched towards you. Of course, Irina has never been the nicest person anyway, so you will hardly be able to tell the difference!" Alice said, obviously pleased with how she assessed the situation.

I groaned. Even though I was still safely inside our cozy home in St John's, for one thing I was certain; this was going to be the longest summer of my life, and not just because we were leaving two weeks early.