Chapter 3
Early the next morning as dawn approached, Melodic humming caught Zach's ear as he returned from his hunt in the forest. The sound was all too familiar for him and he headed to the garage where his mother and father were tinkering with his car. Emmett waved him over as Zach entered.
"Come check out your new tires, baby boy. Your mom was just finishing up," said Emmett as Rosalie beamed at their son.
"I ordered them when Jake and Leah ordered Josh's. What do you think," asked Rosalie and Zach swooped her up in his arms for a big embrace. He twirled her around before placing her back on her feet and she giggled at his excitement.
"Thank you, mom, I love them," he chuckled as he kneeled down to get a better look. Emmett ruffled his son's hair.
"We figured they would come in handy since you still want to drive to the dock tomorrow. Now that your car is finished, time to focus on the jeep. Babe, you want to help," asked Emmett as he made his way farther into the garage and she winked at him.
"Be there in a minute," she called after him. A permanent smile was on her face as she watched her son observe her handy work on his car. He let out a low whistle as his hands traced over the newest features of the chrome wheels.
"You customized them with the family crest," asked Zach in disbelief and she nodded in delight.
"Only the best for my son and I figured it would be a great signature for all of our cars," she explained.
"Thanks, these are really great, mom. You have outdone yourself once again," he commended. Rosalie beamed with pride at the compliment. She sighed in relief when she noticed his eyes were back to their usual golden brown.
"You had a good hunt. I was worried you wouldn't get a chance to go before we left," admitted Rosalie and Zach kissed her cheek.
"I know you were concerned about my lack of hunting lately and so was Allie. You two are more alike than you think and the last thing I wanted was to be scolded over something as easy as elk."
"It is nice to know that she looks out for you even as a human. Are you all packed for the trip?"
"Pretty much, I am just worried about a few last minute things. No big deal."
"Last minute things like Allie's gift," said Rosalie with a knowing glance in his direction and he groaned.
"It was more difficult than I thought it would be and Aunt Alice wasn't helpful. She keeps pestering me about it, but I am trying to be thoughtful. I get that there are more lavish things I could shower her with, but I don't want to overwhelm her and I would if I gave her the gifts that Aunt Alice wanted me to."
"Alice has been known to jump the gun a bit when it comes to these things. She has already seen your wedding with Allie and knows you will be together for eternity, so she is thinking about what mates would give each other, not a new couple just finding love."
"Exactly and trust me, I want to give Allie that car. The titanium build alone is enough to make any car aficionado like myself intrigued, but I don't want to overdo it. What if she hates her gift?" He relaxed under her touch and closed his eyes as she soothingly stroked his hair.
"This is really stressing you out, isn't it?"
"Yea, it is our first Christmas together and I want it to be perfect."
"Perfection is overrated, baby boy. Take it from someone that obsessed with that notion in the past. Relax because she will love it if it is from the heart. She is going to love your gift."
"Wait, how did you…Aunt Alice," he chuckled as he shook his head and she winked at him.
"She told me when she called. Don't overthink this. She is going to love it. I promise."
"Thanks, mom, you are the best. I love you." She kissed his cheek and gave him a warm embrace.
"I love you too. Now, go finish packing before she wakes up. It is almost seven and you need to go wash up from the hunt too."
"Yes ma'am," he said with a dimpled grin before racing upstairs to shower and Rosalie could not help but to smile. Emmett made his way back over to her and wrapped her in his strong arms.
"Ready to have to share him for the first time during the holidays? With Allie joining us, he is going to be more preoccupied," teased Emmett and Rosalie scoffed.
"Let's face it, our baby boy has always been the life of the party and demands everyone's attention. I have shared him plenty of times, but he always manages to make time for us. I love him so much for that."
"We raised him right, didn't we?" Rosalie smiled serenely.
"Yes we did," she boasted and Emmett chuckled before pulling his mate in for a kiss.
Zach finished drying his hair with a towel as he stealthily crept into his bedroom where Allie was sleeping. He could hear her heartbeat picking up as she began to stir in bed and he sat down beside her. Her eyes fluttered open and a smile crept onto her lips.
"Morning," he whispered and her eyes greedily drank him in as she sat up in bed.
"Great morning, what have I done to deserve such a gorgeous sight," she questioned and he frowned in confusion as she continued to gawk at him. He glanced down at his appearance and burst with laughter when he realized he was still shirtless.
"Sorry, I had to shower after my hunt. Let me grab a shirt," he said, but she quickly shook her head.
"I am not complaining," she assured as one of her fingers traced the outline of his bicep. He leaned in closer to her, allowing her hand to slide over his chest. A low moan escaped from his lips at the warmth of her touch and her hand rested on the back of his neck to bring him closer to her. Their lips met in a chaste kiss, followed by another, until Allie could no longer resist. Zach was surprised by the way she crawled onto his lap and captured kissed him with such fervor and desire. He refused to let his hands roam over her body, afraid it would tempt him too much, and was more than happy to appease her by letting her take control. Her lips trailed to his neck and he hissed in pleasure, but soon groaned as the sound of heavy footsteps approaching the door filled his ears. Allie yelped in surprise and hid her face in Zach's chest as Josh burst into the room with a knowing smile. The daggers Zach was throwing at his friend with his eyes made Josh chuckle as he plopped down on the bed with a loud thud.
"Morning, love birds, whatcha doing in here," Josh sang and Zach threw a pillow at him as Allie crawled off her mate's lap.
"J, seriously, do you ever knock," growled Zach, but Josh waved him off.
"Don't worry, you can thank me later," assured Josh. Allie and Zach both scoffed at him.
"Thank you for what, ruining one of the few moments of peace we actually get in this house," muttered Zach and Josh smiled smugly at them as he placed his hands behind his head on the pillow.
"Hey, if you two want the gathering family members downstairs to hear your few moments of peace, that's on you. I just thought you were more discreet than that." Zach's eyes widened in realization and Allie crawled back under the blankets to hide in embarrassment.
"When did you get here," asked Zach and Josh sighed dramatically as he scanned over his fingernails.
"Do you mean when did I get here with my parents and when did Seth and Kaya return from the cottage? Oh and of course your grandparents and parents and don't forget Evan. He rode with us. Yea, everyone is in the kitchen….downstairs….a couple of floors beneath your room….with super hearing," said Josh in a voice so sing song that Zach wanted to strangle him due to the pure smugness.
"Oh my God, I can never face your family again," croaked Allie as Josh snickered. Zach pulled the blankets away from her face and smiled reassuringly at her.
"It is fine."
"It is not fine, Zach. I am mortified right now," she whispered as tears filled her eyes. Zach quickly shook his head and hugged her.
"Hey, it isn't a big deal. I promise. In this house, everyone can hear everything. We try to be discreet, but it is almost impossible to get real privacy. Tell her, J," pleaded Zach and Josh sighed when he saw Allie's tears.
"He is right. You don't have to cry, Al. I was just teasing. Trust us, we have heard things that no one should ever hear, especially from our parents. Can you imagine being able to hear your parents' thoughts about one another?"
"Wait, you can hear their thoughts," questioned Allie and Josh groaned.
"All the time when we phase, they can't control it and I can't either. If we all phase together, we hear each other. It is disturbing to say the least." Allie looked at Zach for confirmation and he nodded.
"My parents use code words like 'hunt' when they need their alone time and for the most part they are good about going far away so I don't hear them, but we all hear each other from time to time. Please don't cry over this. It is nothing. Isn't it, Josh," said Zach as he glared at his friend. Josh chuckled.
"Well, I wouldn't say nothing. I mean it isn't every day we get to hear from you two. Honestly, it is about time. I know my boy here has restraint, but no one is a saint. I mean I….." Before Josh could finish, Zach pushed him off the bed with his force field. Tears formed in Allie's eyes, but this time from laughter. Zach's booming laugh mixed with hers as they watched Josh make a show of standing up and dusting himself off.
"That was just unnecessary," said Josh as he jutted his chin out in defiance. Zach rolled his eyes.
"Get out. We will be down in a bit," said Zach.
"Just last night, you were being all cheesy and vowing to be my best bro forever. Now you are kicking me out? That hurts, Z. It really hurts."
"Out," bellowed Zach and Josh feigned a hurt expression.
"Fine and by the way, you're welcome," said Josh with a smug smile. Allie glared at the boy as he moseyed out of the room, whistling all the while. Zach noticed her look and smiled mischievously.
"You want to get him back, don't you," he asked with a knowing smile and she smirked.
"So badly, will you help?"
"For you, anything, my love." With those few words, Allie darted from the room and jumped on Josh's back before he could turn the corner. He yelped as Zach used his force field to bring him down and Allie started tousling his hair.
"Stop it! We have been over this," shrieked Josh as Allie continued to mess up his hair and Zach held his arms down.
"Are you done making fun of us," challenged Allie as she stopped and Josh thought for a moment.
"You mean for the whole day or just for the morning? I can promise you the morning, but that's the most restraint I've got."
"Fine, then no comments until noon," declared Allie, but Josh guffawed.
"Noon, are you serious? That's more than four hours of no comments. Do you know how long that is for me," wailed Josh.
"He has a point, babe. That's like twenty eight hours in dog years," agreed Zach.
"Shut up, Z," laughed Josh and Allie huffed.
"Fine, can you at least not make fun of the fact that I love your best friend until we leave for the island," she bargained and Josh slowly nodded as he thought about it.
"That's about two hours. I can survive two hours. You got a deal, Al."
"Promise," she asked and he winked at her as they shook hands. Zach and Allie let him up and Josh sighed as he ran a hand through his hair.
"You two are lucky I have time to fix it because this will just not do," grumbled Josh before disappearing into Zach's bathroom. Allie suddenly groaned.
"He is going to be in there forever now. Great, how I am supposed to get ready? He takes longer in the bathroom than I do." Zach smiled adoringly at her.
"That's because you are so beautiful, you don't need the time. You can use the bathroom down the hall if you want or I could always kick him out."
"Don't worry, I got this. At least he won't bother us until noon."
"Yea, I don't think he caught that. You really are a genius, you know that?"
"We leave for the island at ten, but they will get there before we do. You said it takes about two hours, right?"
"With the way I drive, you know it," chuckled Zach.
"Good, then we will arrive around noon," she giggled, gave him a quick kiss, and stood up.
"Are you sure you don't want me to just kick him out? You know I will."
"Oh I know, but I like messing with him. He is the little brother I never had." Zach watched in amusement as Allie began banging on the bathroom door and demanding for Josh to switch bathrooms with her.
"Jeez Allie, leave me alone!"
"No, move, all my stuff is in there!"
"I have stuff in here too. You aren't the only one with stuff in here. My stuff was here before your stuff even knew it could be in here!" Zach shook his head in amusement as he strolled downstairs and left the two of them to their bickering. He chuckled when he heard Josh finally concede and let Allie in the bathroom. However, his laughter faded as he entered the kitchen to see his parents, grandparents, Seth, Kaya, Jacob, Leah, and Evan. His parents and grandparents were pretending to discuss the vacation as if they were oblivious to what transpired upstairs. Seth waggled his eyebrows suggestively at him and gave him a wink of encouragement, which made Zach roll his eyes. Kaya simply smiled and sipped her orange juice, while Jacob, Leah, and Evan focused on eating breakfast.
"Morning," said Zach as he awkwardly walked in. Esme kissed his cheek and giggled before she exited the kitchen and Carlisle clapped him on the back, a glint of amusement evident in his golden brown eyes. Emmett was beaming with pride as Zach walked over to him and Rosalie pinched the bridge of her nose as her mate began to buzz with excitement.
"Come on, angel, just let me have this moment. Just one," begged Emmett and she groaned in defeat.
"If you must," she conceded. Zach tried not to laugh as his father picked him up into a crushing bear hug before ruffling his curly hair.
"That's my boy," bellowed Emmett. The others snickered at the outburst as Rosalie recited sonnets in her head to block out the whooping and hollering of her mate.
"I am glad you two are going slow, but there is nothing wrong with a little….."
"Emmett," shouted Rosalie and Emmett groaned.
"Fine, fine, moving on, nothing to see here. I need to finish packing anyways," he mumbled, but he could not hide his smile completely as he darted upstairs. Zach awkwardly cleared his throat as he stood in front of his mother. Leah, Jacob, Seth, and Kaya watched as they waited for Rosalie to respond, but Evan was too interested in eating to care.
"Mom, I am so sorry you had to hear….."
"It is fine. I am fine. Everything is fine. We are fine," claimed Rosalie and Zach eyed her carefully.
"Are we really because you just said 'fine' four times?"
"Of course, why wouldn't I be fine," she said as she grabbed a knife and started chopping an onion as fast as she could. Leah smirked as she moseyed over to them.
"Oh I don't know. Maybe because your son and his mate were upstairs….." Before Leah could finish, Rosalie held the knife up and gave her a murderous glare. Leah patted Zach on the shoulder.
"Nope, definitely not fine," whispered Leah to Zach and he nodded in agreement as Leah sat back down at the table.
"Mom, we need to talk about this. Can we please talk, maybe go for a walk," suggested Zach and Rosalie gave a curt nod. She followed him out the back door and they walked in silence until they were out of hearing distance from the others.
"Mom…."
"Zach, it is okay. I mean it. She is your mate and you love her. You did nothing wrong and I don't want you to think that you did."
"I know I didn't. I just wish you didn't hear it," confessed Zach and she smirked.
"You and me both, but it happened and the reason I freaked out is because with each step that you take in your relationship with her, I have to accept that is a step you take away from me." Zach frowned in confusion.
"I don't understand that correlation."
"That isn't the first time I have heard you two kiss. It just made me think about the future and how much you are growing up. Someday you are going to be married and you are going to want to make choices for you and Allie as a couple that may not be the choices you would make as a son to me."
"Still confused, you may need to spell this one out for me." Rosalie giggled.
"Son, I guess I am just realizing that while I have to hear awkward noises from you and Allie right now because we live together, that could change and I wasn't prepared to think about that yet," confessed Rosalie.
"Wait, you think that once Allie and I get married, we are going to move far away from you and I won't be your baby boy anymore?" Rosalie cupped his cheeks in her hands.
"I know that you love this family and enjoy being around, but I understand that one day you are going to want your privacy."
"Sure, I will and when that day comes, Allie and I will go on vacation just like you and dad do. We will go for hunts or take trips to Paris like Aunt Alice and Uncle Jasper. We'll need a cottage on the island. Aunt Alice and grandma already said they found the perfect spot so…"
"You already talked to them about this? You have decided you want to live close to us?"
"Of course, why wouldn't I? This is my family and Allie knows that. One of the reasons she is excited about seeing the island is because I told her it is a place where we can live together someday." Rosalie was speechless and Zach chuckled at her stunned expression.
"Mom, did you really think I would move away from the family because I found my mate?"
"Not right away, but eventually I knew it would be a possibility."
"Look, we are a coven and a family and any other word that would describe us being close-knit and never apart for long. It is weird to me that I can't see Uncle Jasper and go hunt with him whenever I want or that Uncle Edward has to call me once a day to check in because he isn't around. I miss Aunt Bella's conversations about classic literature and getting to tease Renesmee and Nahuel. If this is how it feels when our family is away from each other right now, I can't imagine not living with any of you. Yes, once Allie and I decide to become more serious, we are going to want to spend time alone, but never think I can ever be permanently without you. I am a mama's boy just like Seth….well, the best mama's boy because I am your favorite." Rosalie hugged her son tightly and sighed in relief.
"You have no clue how happy I am to hear you say that. Are you sure Allie feels the same way though?"
"Mom, Allie has spent the past month over here every single day. The reason she feels guilty right now about her parents is because she knows she has spent more time with our family than them. This is where she feels like she belongs and if one day that changes, we will deal with it, but she knows my heart is always with my family. Feel better now?" She linked arms with him and happily nodded as they took their time walking back home.
"Yes, much, and thank you for telling me that. I needed to hear it."
"Good, now, since it is just you and me, you can finally tell me the truth as well."
"About what?"
"About being your favorite of course, I promise I won't tell Seth. Okay, that's a lie. I am totally going to tell Seth." Rosalie's tinkling laughter flitted around them and she kissed his cheek.
"You are my favorite….vampire son." Zach guffawed.
"That is a total copout and you know it. Aw come on, mom. Just admit it, I am your favorite. Seth has to sleep too much and is constantly eating cookies. He is too high maintenance." Rosalie giggled at his exasperation and winked at him as he continued to explain why he was much cooler than his older brother.
By the time Allie finished getting ready and ate breakfast, the rest of the pack had arrived and the house was full of excitement over the trip to the island. The boys were in the front yard teasing and joking with each other while the rest of the family put their luggage on the porch. Allie jogged upstairs to grab her suitcase, but Zach appeared and grabbed it before she could.
"Sorry, the guys were teasing me. Josh told them about this morning, which he said technically doesn't break the deal because you weren't around. I got this," informed Zach as he grabbed both of her suitcases.
"I guess it is time to go out there and face your family. I hid up here as long as I could. Thanks for bringing my breakfast up. A girl can get used to you serving her breakfast in bed."
"You should," he whispered against her lips before kissing her. She lingered for one more moment before taking a few steps back and shaking her head.
"Stop distracting me. When you kiss me, things get all fuzzy and I forget where I am. That's what got us in trouble last time."
"It isn't a big deal and by the way, I believe the word you are looking for is dazzle. I dazzle you when I kiss you, but don't worry, you dazzle me back."
"Dazzle, I don't think that's the word."
"Oh really," he chuckled as he stalked toward her. Their eyes locked and her breath hitched as he closed the distance between them again. As soon as their lips met, she melted into him. He smiled and wrapped her securely in his arms as her legs gave out.
"See, dazzled," he teased and she rolled her eyes.
"I suppose you are right. You said I dazzle you too though. How?"
"Vampires have heightened senses and I have always been aware of my surroundings. I can hear every sound from the forest, everyone talking downstairs, I can smell every scent, but when we kiss, all that fades away. All I hear is your heart beating. All I smell is your scent. I am consumed with you."
"You are so beautiful with words. You know that?"
"You are exquisite. Do you know that," he asked with a dimpled grin.
"I love you."
"I love you too. We should get downstairs. Your parents just got here and I can hear their ride to the island. The jet is on the way. You have to see this thing," said Zach excitedly as he picked her up into his arms and darted downstairs. He put her down on the front porch and Allie gulped as Rosalie walked over to. Allie began to fidget nervously.
"Um, Rose, about this morning…."
"This morning, what happened this morning," asked Rosalie with a smile and Allie sighed in relief.
"So you aren't mad," questioned Allie.
"Vampire hearing can be a very inconvenient thing. I am sorry it infringed on your privacy. I know all about that. I may be Zach's mother, but I am also a mate," assured Rosalie and she giggled as Allie hugged her.
"I love you for being so cool about this," admitted Allie and Rosalie was stunned by the words. Allie jogged over to greet her parents as Leah winked at Rosalie.
"She loves you for being so cool. I don't even think Nina liked me," joked Leah and Rosalie smirked.
"That's because you hated Nina. I didn't expect it to happen so fast, but that is certainly not the case with Allie," confessed Rosalie and Leah nodded in agreement. Carlisle walked over to shake Sam's hand in greeting.
"I am so happy you are joining us. We will be leaving for the island in a minute. They were just waiting for everyone to arrive," explained Carlisle.
"They," asked Emily as she looked around and Carlisle pointed up at the sky. Emily, Sam, and Allie all were slack-jawed as one of the Volturi stealth jets materialized in thin air. The sleek, black aircraft landed on the front lawn and the pack could barely contain their excitement.
"This is how you guys travel? Zach, Josh, you have been holding out on us," exclaimed Braden.
"Is it too late to change my Christmas list because I totally want one," laughed Tommy.
"Z and I put it on the list every year, guys. So far, no luck," said Josh and the boys clamored around the jet to get a better look. One of the doors slid open and Lena and Alexander walked out with amused smiles.
"Each time we see you Cullens, the family grows," called Alexander and Carlisle chuckled as they hugged.
"Yes, it seems to do that from time to time," agreed Carlisle. Lena hugged Esme.
"I thought I was busy with all our new guards, but an entire pack? You must have your hands full," said Lena.
"They are always a welcomed change in routine when they come over. How are the guards doing? I hope they will get some time off for the holidays," said Esme.
"You and I both know the vampire world never sleeps, but many of the guards will manage to take off for at least one night. You are so kind to invite them to the party," explained Lena.
"It is the least we can do after all we have been through together," assured Esme. Zach slipped his hand into Allie's and she followed him over to Alexander and Lena.
"Alexander, Lena, I would like for you to meet my mate. This is Allison Uley, but she goes by Allie," introduced Zach and Alexander glanced at Sam and Emily from the corner of his eye.
"Uley, so it is true what we have been told. The alpha's daughter is destined to become a Cullen. It is a pleasure to meet you, Allie," said Alexander as he gave her a bow. Lena gently kissed her on each cheek.
"Welcome to the family," added Lena and Allie blushed.
"Thank you, it is nice to meet the two of you. Zach has told me a lot about you," said Allie as Zach wrapped an arm around her.
"I am trying to catch her up on the family history," informed Zach and Alexander chuckled.
"It is quite a history," teased Alexander. Lena noticed the way the pack was staring at her and gave them a curious glance.
"Zach, it seems your friends are intrigued by me," said Lena and Zach motioned for the boys to come over. Josh chuckled at the way the pack ran over to gawk at Lena and Alexander quirked an eyebrow at each of them.
"Careful boys, she is already mated," warned Alexander, which made Zach and Josh laugh.
"Don't worry Alexander, they are more interested in her fighting skills," assured Josh and Alexander laughed as Tommy raised his hand as if he was in school.
"Zach said he saw you take out five vamps at once, is that true," asked Tommy and Lena giggled.
"Yes, I have before but I prefer to not be put in those types of situations," replied Lena.
"Sweet! Okay, what would it take for you to train us," asked Owen excitedly and Lena shook her head in amusement as Carlisle approached.
"How about we discuss this on the way to the island? Alice has us on a schedule and you know she hates to run behind," suggested Carlisle. Alexander watched the way the boys followed behind Lena and marveled at her.
"Should I be concerned," questioned Alexander and Carlisle shook his head.
"They are harmless for the most part. They are probably going to pester her until she shows them a couple of moves though," replied Carlisle.
"Don't worry, Alexander. I will keep them in line," assured Josh as he jogged onto the jet. Everyone, but Allie and Zach started to file on and Allie hugged her parents as Zach put the luggage inside the aircraft.
"You aren't coming with us, are you," asked Emily and Allie shook her head.
"Zach wants to show me his yacht at the dock. That's usually the way he gets to the island, but it won't take us too long. When we get there, I promise we will spend time together. We just want a couple of hours to ourselves. Is that okay? I can come with you if…."
"Allie, go, we will see you in a bit," said Emily and Allie sighed in relief.
"Thanks, mom, love you. Bye dad, love you," she said and kissed both their cheeks before stepping back onto the porch. Zach waved goodbye to everyone as well and stood beside Allie on the porch as they watched the jet hover above the ground. It slowly disappeared into thin air and all that could be heard was a boom as it took off. Allie sighed in relief as she rested her forehead against Zach's chest.
"Finally, some peace and quiet," she whispered as she closed her eyes to revel in the moment.
"Yep, just you and me for the next couple of hours," agreed Zach.
"Do we really have to go so soon? We finally have the house to ourselves," said Allie, but before Zach could respond, his phone rang.
"Alice," they said in unison as he took the phone from his pocket and Allie giggled.
"I don't know how I feel about her spying on us so much," said Allie and Zach chuckled as he answered the phone.
"Yes, Aunt Alice, how can we help you?"
"Don't take that tone with me Zachary Carlisle McCarty Cullen. You know you love me and Allie will grow to love me. I have seen it. Now get your butts in that car and start driving. I have not seen you for two weeks and that just will not do. You know you miss me too, so don't even try to act annoyed."
"I do miss you, Aunt Alice, and we will see you soon," assured Zach before hanging up and Allie shook her head in amusement.
"Is she always like that," questioned Allie and Zach smirked.
"Constantly, incessantly, and unbelievably so," answered Zach as he opened the garage and the two got ready to head to the island.
Keegan blankly stared at the small device in his hands as his eyes scanned over the same name repeatedly. He let a finger trace the outline of the words before tapping a reply. It was a simple question, but the implications weighed heavy on his heart.
Are you sure?
He waited impatiently as each second that passed felt like hours. The moment he read the next response, his eyes started to throb as they ached for the tears that would not come.
I am sorry to say that I am, Mr. Rossi. You have my deepest condolences.
-LJ
Keegan quickly turned off his phone and tossed it on the bed as grief swelled inside of him. He closed his eyes and took in a deep breath to steady himself. It was a relaxation technique that Zafrina taught him to do when he felt overwhelmed. It usually worked, but he was having trouble focusing as his mate entered their bedroom.
"Marcus and Didyme just called. The jet they sent for us will be here soon, so….what is it," asked Zafrina as she rushed to his side. She could sense his turmoil, but he shook his head.
"I am fine," he asserted, but refused to look her in the eyes.
"Keegan, I know you are not fine. What happened?" The hurt was evident on her face when he turned away from her and grabbed his suitcase.
"Nothing, we should go," he announced as he left the room and she followed. Before she could question him again, Garrett darted over to them and playfully jumped on Keegan's back.
"Come on Keeg, get excited! We are going to the island. You and Ben have to do that fire display for everyone again. That was epic last time. Oh and no cheating when we have the snowball fight. Being able to melt snow before it hits you is an unfair advantage so…." Keegan shrugged him off.
"I am not in the mood for games right now, Garrett," growled Keegan and Garrett frowned when he noticed Keegan's rigid posture.
"What's wrong with you," questioned Garrett as the rest of the family joined them in the living room. Zafrina eyed her mate as he smirked bitterly at them.
"So something has to be wrong with me because I don't feel like being the good little firestarter that dances like a puppet for you?"
"Uh, yea, your fire displays are a tradition now, obviously," said Garrett and Kate gave him a small jolt.
"He is being serious, Garrett," she warned and Eleazar cautiously approached him.
"What is this about," he asked.
"It doesn't concern you. Zafrina, I need to go hunt, are you coming?" Zafrina slowly nodded.
"Sure, but first we need to talk," she said as she reached out to touch him, but he stepped away from her.
"What is it with this family and needing to talk all the time? I want to hunt. What's wrong with that?"
"Nothing, but we just hunted last night, so what is this really about? Keegan, you know you can talk to me about anything. Please just tell me," pleaded Zafrina and he rubbed his eyes in frustration. Eleazar grabbed Zafrina by the shoulder and pulled her a step back as he eyed Keegan.
"Easy, Zafrina, look at his eyes," warned Eleazar and Keegan let out a growl as he glared at Eleazar.
"Get your hands off my mate," he roared and pushed Eleazar's hand off of Zafrina's shoulder.
"Keegan, calm down," demanded Carmen, but Keegan huffed.
"Your mate is the one that is touching mine. Maybe he should calm down," retorted Keegan.
"I am fine. You never have to protect me from, Eleazar. You know that," coaxed Zafrina.
"Something's not right with him. Zafrina, step back," warned Eleazar again, but Zafrina shook her head.
"He is my mate. I will handle this, Eleazar," chided Zafrina. Tanya stepped between Eleazar and Zafrina.
"Everyone, just calm down. What has happened," demanded Tanya and Kate crossed her arms as she observed Keegan's stance.
"He is defensive about something," whispered Kate to Garrett.
"But what," asked Garrett and Keegan let out a frustrated growl.
"I am right here! I can hear you! I am in the same room with you so stop treating me like a child! Can everyone please just get off my back," yelled Keegan.
"You are about to lose control and you know it," argued Eleazar.
"Oh, you would just love that, wouldn't you? You would love to prove that you were right about the firestarter that can't control his power. An abomination, isn't that what I am to you, Eleazar," challenged Keegan and Eleazar's eyes widened.
"I never said that to you, not once," defended Eleazar.
"You said it to your mate. I heard you the night we first met. You never wanted me to even exist, let alone be a part of your family!"
"Keegan, that was a long time ago. That was before any of us even knew you," reminded Carmen. Keegan laughed bitterly.
"Is that supposed to make me feel better? You have no clue what it is like to be cursed in this life, to be cursed as a human, you have no clue," roared Keegan as his eyes began to glow. Zafrina pounced on her mate and turned his head toward the fireplace as hot, white fire poured from his eyes.
"Ben, control it," shouted Tanya and Benjamin used all of his ability to contain the fire from spreading from the fireplace. Zafrina focused on her mate and flashed images in his mind to calm him down. Several images of the two of them filled his sight and slowly the fire dissipated from Keegan's eyes. Zafrina looked into her mate's eyes and sighed in relief.
"Keegan….." Before she could say another word, he made it to his feet and stepped away from his mate.
"Stay back. He is right. I am not safe. I need to go."
"Where are you going," cried Zafrina and he winced at the pain in her voice.
"Someplace where I can't hurt you," he informed before racing out of the house. She tried to follow him, but Garrett stopped her.
"Give him a minute to collect himself. Tell us what happened," suggested Garrett.
"That's the problem. I have absolutely no clue. He was fine last night when he hunted and this morning. I went to grab his gift from the garage and when I came back, he was completely different."
"So something must have happened pretty fast to make him respond like that," said Benjamin and Eleazar nodded in agreement.
"Keegan's ability is tied to his emotions, more so than any other being I have ever encountered. It had to be something quite significant to make him respond in such a way," explained Eleazar.
"The jet is here. Should we tell them to leave? We can't go to the island knowing that something is wrong with Keegan," said Carmen, but Zafrina shook her head.
"No, go, I will stay behind with him. Maybe he will be calmer if it is just the two of us."
"I don't think that is a good idea," warned Eleazar.
"I am his mate, Eleazar. Unlike you, I have faith in him. He will be fine," said Zafrina before darting from the house in search of her mate. Eleazar growled in frustration.
"It has nothing to do with faith. When Keegan is out of control…."
"We know, Eleazar, and so does she. Zafrina is just frustrated like we are, which is why we need to make sure we help him," said Kate and Tanya nodded in agreement.
"We should head to the island and speak with the others about it. Maybe Alice knows what is going on," suggested Tanya.
"Why hasn't she called yet," wondered Benjamin. He chuckled when his phone rang and her immediately answered.
"Because Benjamin, I understand the sensitivity of the subject. Look, I know this is not my usual style, but Edward is right. This isn't my story to tell and all I will say is that it is about Keegan's past."
"That's vague," said Tanya as Benjamin put Alice on speaker phone.
"I know, but Keegan is very emotional right now and he values his privacy. If I betray his privacy, he may never fully trust me again. Just know that I am keeping an eye on things. He is not in danger and neither are you. You should come to the island now. He will be here when he is ready and at least he has Zafrina."
"Are you sure that is the best way to proceed? He is our family. We want him to know we support him," said Tanya.
"The best way to support Keegan in a time like this is to give him space. Trust me, he will come to you when he needs you," advised Alice and Tanya reluctantly nodded.
"We should get going then. Alice, we will see you soon." Alice's squeal of delight made them all shake their heads in amusement.
"I know you can't see it now, but this is going to be a great holiday," she announced before hanging up. Garrett glanced warily at his mate.
"I know not to bet against her, but I am really worried about Keegan," confessed Garrett and Kate kissed him.
"Me too," agreed Kate as they gathered their luggage. They went outside where the stealth jet was waiting for them and boarded with Keegan on everyone's mind.
Bella smiled serenely as she watched the way her daughter and mother interacted as they talked to each other on the flat screen in Bella and Edward's cottage. Renesmee gave a twirl and Renee's laughter echoed from the screen mounted above the fireplace.
"It is a beautiful dress and very fitting for my beautiful granddaughter. You will be the talk of the party," bragged Renee.
"Thanks grandma, I wish you could be here," said Renesmee and Renee blew her a kiss.
"I know, sweetheart, but I wouldn't want to cramp your style by being the only human there."
"There will be plenty of humans here, including Zach's mate."
"Oh, that cutie pie has a mate? That's vampire talk for girlfriend, right?" Renesmee giggled.
"Kind of, but mates are far more serious. She will eventually be his wife. When vampires mate, they mate forever because mates are destined, just like I was destined for Nahuel."
"That's why I could never be a vampire. I have way too much energy to be tied down to one man for eternity. Is she cute? That boy is so handsome. He deserves a mate that can measure up!"
"Yes, grandma, Allie is very pretty. You know, you could always change your mind. Connell is just a phone call away if you want to visit the island."
"Thanks for the invitation, but I assure you I have plans this Christmas." Bella quirked an eyebrow at her mother as she sat down beside Renesmee on the couch.
"What's his name and how long have you known him," questioned Bella.
"Oh Bella, you would love him. His name is Derrick and I have never met a man like him."
"She is seventy four years old and has never met a man like him, I find that hard to believe," whispered Bella and Renesmee shushed her mother.
"What was that, dear," asked Renee and Bella waved her off.
"Nothing mom, I am sure he is wonderful. Have fun in France. We will call you again on Christmas," informed Bella and Renee blew them each kisses.
"Love you both," said Renee before ending the call and Bella groaned as the screen went black.
"You would think at her age, she would have settled down," whined Bella and Renesmee giggled at her mother's complaint.
"Grandma Renee doesn't seem like the type to settle down."
"Your Grandpa Charlie and Phil were the only two men that came close," said Bella as Edward and Nahuel entered the cottage.
"We're back. The jet will be here soon, so we dropped Charlie and Sue off at the main house. He complained the whole boat ride about being on water. I think he is done with cruises for a bit," chuckled Edward. Nahuel embraced his mate and kissed her.
"Yes, it was a long boat ride back to the island. I don't think Charlie will do an Alaskan Cruise again for a bit," added Nahuel and Renesmee rolled her eyes.
"I told him that warmer climates would be better this time of the year. He never listens to me," giggled Renesmee. Alice happily skipped into the cottage with Jasper right behind her. She clapped happily.
"They're here! The first jet has arrived and the Denalis will be here soon. Oh and Zach and Allie will arrive thirteen minutes after noon. She is going to be hungry so I better save her some lunch. The pack can really put it away. Those boys are just…"
"Alice, we have talked about this. I know there is a lot going on right now, but you have to breathe. If not for your sake, then for mine because your thoughts are going to send me into overload," chided Edward. Jasper sent a wave of calm over his mate and wrapped her in his arms.
"Nothing wrong with being excited darlin', but relax. Everything is being handled," comforted Jasper and Alice nodded as she melted into his embrace.
"Right, everything is going great. The party is set for tomorrow night. Esme has agreed to help me with the food tonight. Everyone is on their way. Keegan will be back to being Keegan soon enough. All is well," said Alice calmly and Jasper kissed the top of her head. Edward pinched the bridge of his nose as he heard the jet touch down and Alice squealed with delight.
"They're here," she cheered loudly and ran out of the cottage. Jasper shrugged with a smile.
"I tried," he offered and Edward sighed.
"Well, at least she has other people to rant to now. She may not admit it, but she missed them all a lot," informed Edward as he, Bella, Jasper, Renesmee, and Nahuel made their way to the spacious front lawn of the main house where the jet landed. Renesmee hugged Charlie and Sue as they waited to greet the others from the jet.
"Grandpa, I missed you," said Renesmee and Charlie kissed her cheek.
"We missed you too. I brought you back a book I thought you might like," said Charlie as he sifted through his suitcase. Renesmee kissed his cheek in thanks. Seth jogged over to greet his mother and Kaya hugged her as well. Bella laughed as Rosalie tried to peel Alice off her, but their sister refused to relinquish her embrace. She pounced the moment Rosalie stepped onto the island.
"Oh I missed you so much, Rose! Stop trying to ruin the moment. You know you missed me too," declared Alice and Bella winked at her mate.
"What was that about her not admitting that she missed them," she teased and Edward couldn't help but smile as Esme glided over to them. She gave them each a hug and kiss.
"The house in Forks is special to me, but this is home now. I have missed all of you," admitted Esme and Jasper winked at her.
"Mom, it has only been a few weeks," reminded Jasper, but she simply scoffed.
"Too long if you ask me," replied Esme. She laughed as Alice jumped into her arms for another hug and Edward rolled his eyes.
"Mama's girl," he grumbled and dodged Alice's hand before she could flick his ear.
"Stop trying to ruin my moments. You are worse than Rosalie," shouted Alice and Esme gave them each a look.
"Have you two been bickering lately," she questioned and Jasper, Bella, Renesmee, and Nahuel each nodded without hesitation.
"Yes," they said in unison and Edward huffed.
"We haven't been that bad," he defended and Esme kissed his cheek sweetly, which made him smile crookedly at her.
"Oh I am sure you haven't been, sweetie. Will you help me tonight with the food," asked Esme and Edward nodded as he hugged his mother.
"Of course I will," he assured.
"We both will, mom," added Bella and Esme sighed happily as she pulled Bella into their hug.
"All my family in one place again, just the way it should be," said Esme. Alice nodded happily and turned her attention to the pack.
"Alright boys, time for you to pick your rooms. Alexander and Lena, your room is on the first floor down the hall from Sam and Emily's. Charlie and Sue, you will stay in Bella and Edward's cottage. We figured you could have a bit more peace and quiet that way. Josh, will you please show the pack the guest rooms and give them the tour? I need to deal with some Denali issues," informed Alice as she pulled out her phone. Carlisle, Esme, Alexander, and Lena looked at her with concern evident in their eyes.
"Denali issues," questioned Carlisle.
"Is everything alright," asked Esme.
"If we need to send guards, we can," assured Alexander, but Alice waved him off.
"It will be fine. I just need to make a few calls to help things along," she explained as she dialed. Carlisle and Esme looked at Edward and he shrugged sheepishly.
"It is a long story, but it will work out. Keegan is just dealing with something we all had to at some point. We will explain more once he is ready to open up," explained Edward. Alice rolled her eyes as Connell answered.
"Aw, wee one, I was expecting to hear from you soon. Who do you need me to pick up this time, a human, wolf, just an errand you need me to run as if I am your personal chauffer?"
"Drop the attitude, mister. This is a bit more serious than usual. I know you didn't plan on seeing us until tomorrow, but I need you." Alice hung up the phone and smiled at Connell as he blinked in with Tia.
"At your service, wee one," he said and Alice beamed at him.
Zafrina found Keegan sitting in a massive glacier and staring up at the dark sky. She sat down beside him and scooted close to him to rest her head on his shoulder. They sat in silence and watched the Northern Lights dance above them in a sea of colors as the snow powdered the ground around them. Keegan was as still as a statue and she gently intertwined their fingers, which made him respond for the first time since she arrived.
"You shouldn't be here," he mumbled as he turned to face her.
"Where else would I be?"
"Did the others leave?"
"Yes, they wanted to stay, but I told them to go."
"You should have gone with them. Eleazar is right. I am dangerous right now."
"Eleazar is concerned about you. We all are. Keegan, what changed? What has happened? Please talk to me. All I want to do is help. You know that." Keegan rubbed his eyes and slowly nodded.
"I can feel it now. I couldn't when I was younger, but I can feel my eyes get tense when it is about to happen."
"When what happens?"
"When I lose control, my eyes start to throb, like they are ready to light up. That's new."
"Your powers mature with you, just like mine did. That is one of two reasons I know that you would never hurt me. You have more control over your power than you think. When you were a newborn, it was hard to control because it was just like any other urge. Now, it is different."
"I still lost control in the house."
"Yes, for a moment and only a moment, you lost control. Give yourself some credit. That is the first time that has ever happened and even then, you managed to regain control."
"What's the other reason? You said there are two reasons you know I would never hurt you."
"That one is the simplest. I am your mate and I have no doubt in my mind that you could never do that. Now, will you tell me what is going on?" Keegan took in a shaky breath and pulled out his phone. She looked at him curiously as he scrolled through his messages and showed one to her. Her eyes widened as she read it.
"I told Logan to keep track of my brother and call me if he was ever in any trouble," confessed Keegan.
"Jenks, the lawyer that helped the Cullens with the paperwork for Charlie, Sue, and Zach?"
"Yes, when I found out about all the resources he had, I called him and had him find my brother. He is really good at what he does and he found him the same day. He was in really bad shape. I don't know why I ever thought he would stay away from the drugs long enough to turn his life around, but a part of me always hoped he would."
"You have never mentioned your brother by name. You barely mention him at all. I figured you had your reasons and I didn't want to push you."
"Connor, he was ten years older than me. That's why we were never close. The age gap was too much and he was already out of the house and doing his own thing when our parents died in the car accident. I was only sixteen, but I knew Connor couldn't take care of me. He couldn't even take care of himself. He started doing drugs in high school and it got worse after my parents were gone. Logan found him in rehab. I told him to give him whatever he needed and paid for him to be transferred to a better facility."
"Why didn't you tell me?"
"I didn't want to make a big deal out of it. I never even went to go see him. We were never close, but he was family. I was given a second chance and I wanted him to have one too."
"You keep talking about him in the past tense. That's what happened. He is gone, isn't he?" Keegan slowly nodded as he looked up at the sky.
"Logan alerted me. Connor checked himself out of rehab a week ago. They found him dead a few days after that. His estranged wife apparently had him cremated, but never showed up to pick up the ashes. That's the type of love he had in his life, someone who was probably too high to even remember he died," he said through gritted teeth.
"I am so sorry. That is horrible."
"Yea well, I am pretty sure that someone placed a curse on the Rossi Family in another life. I am the last member of it, the lone survivor." Zafrina leaned her forehead against his.
"You are not alone. You have a family, Keegan, and every single member of it loves you."
"Even Eleazar," he questioned and she giggled.
"Yes, even Eleazar. He may not know how to show it all the time, but he cares about you. He wants your safety and is just a worrier. It is what he does best."
"I am sorry I freaked out like that. I just lost control. I don't even know why I said half of the things that I did. I just got the message and it brought up all the pain from the past."
"I can understand that. When Kachiri turned me and Senna, we vowed to create distance from our human families. The three of us were best friends as humans, so we figured we had everything we needed. Once I became a vampire, I never looked back. As the human memories began to fade, it got easier, but then I met the Cullens and was reminded that family can be a wonderful thing. Senna and Kachiri will always be part of my family, but there was always a loneliness that I could not evade. I refused to acknowledge it most of the time, but when I saw you, I became painfully aware of how lonely I had been." He tenderly kissed her lips and smiled.
"You are the only thing that makes me feel like I am not cursed. The way my parents died, my power, all of it made me think that I was never meant to be happy, but then I met you. I love you, Zafrina."
"I love you too. Thank you for telling me."
"I am sorry I didn't tell you sooner about Connor. It is just a story that I knew could never have a happy ending." Suddenly, Connell appeared and Zafrina and Keegan frowned in confusion.
"Connell, what are you doing here," asked Keegan and Connell smiled sympathetically at him.
"I was told you needed a ride to Seattle."
"Seattle, let me guess. Alice told you everything," questioned Keegan.
"Nope, just enough to let me know where to go, so how about it," asked Connell as he held out his hand. Keegan glanced at Zafrina and she stood up.
"It is up to you," assured Zafrina and Keegan nodded as he stood up as well. They took Connell's hand one moment and were in Seattle the next. Keegan was surprised when he saw Logan Jenks standing by the gates of a cemetery. The old gate creaked as it swung back and forth in the wind and leaves swirled around. Logan fixed his fedora as the wind tried to catch it and Keegan noticed the contents in his hands.
"Connell, where exactly did Alice tell you to take us," asked Keegan and Connell smiled at him.
"The wee one said you need to give a family member a proper goodbye. She said this would be a good way to do it. I will be back to take you to the island in a bit," said Connell before blinking out and Zafrina followed Keegan over to the gate where Logan was waiting for them.
"Mr. Rossi, I am sorry to hear about your brother. Mrs. Rossi, it is a pleasure to meet you. I am Logan Jenks," said Logan as he held out his gloved hand for her to shake. Zafrina did with an appreciative smile.
"Thank you for all of your help," said Zafrina. Logan held out a black urn and Keegan slowly accepted it.
"This is what your brother's wife had him cremated in. The funeral home said they have not been able to contact her ever since she made the arrangements."
"They didn't have any kids, did they? Connor and his wife, I mean," asked Keegan.
"No sir, they had a common law marriage, but never had any children."
"Thank you for finding him for me, Logan. It means a lot to me," acknowledged Keegan and Logan smiled sympathetically at him.
"If you ever need something again, you have my number. I am always available. I will give you two some privacy." With that, Logan departed and Keegan stared down at the urn in silence. Zafrina slipped her hand into his.
"What do you want to do? We can keep his ashes or scatter them somewhere nice or whatever you want. It is up to you," suggested Zafrina and a small smile crept onto his lips for the first time since he found out the unfortunate news.
"He should be with my mom and dad. They were buried in this cemetery. He should be too, right by them."
"I think that would be nice," agreed Zafrina.
"A proper goodbye," he added and held her hand as they entered the cemetery.
