This will probably be one of the last chapters I take from the old story, and I'll start new from here. I felt like it moved too fast.
PAUL POV
As I lay next to Rachel's sleeping form, I couldn't help but think if Jared was right.
Rachel was great, and the sex we'd just had was amazing as always. But I kept imagining it was Gabby, err, Gabz.
I wasn't sure. How did I know if I could make her choose me? What if no matter what I did, she still didn't want me?
I know I could handle if Rachel left me. With Gabby, I guess I'll call her that in my mind, even the smallest rejection felt like it could kill me.
I'm going soft. Damn.
I had to fight this.
Rachel stuck with me no matter what dumb shit I did.
She knew me well and I knew I ever was forced to settle down someday it'd have to be the person who accepted me for who I am, right?
Why should I change for someone to want me?
This imprint shit is bullshit.
"Hon?" Rachel had finally awoken. I was almost angry at her for interrupting my thoughts. It was the imprint speaking most likely, so I ignored it. I think Sam's theory was right. It's just about genetics and who would make the best baby. That's all the wolf in me wants.
I didn't want kids anyways.
I could imagine a bunch of little Gabby's running around.
"Hon, why are you smiling? Get out of bed and dressed, we gotta go to Emily's." I stopped smiling. Damn I hadn't even noticed. The wolf in me must be smiling at the genetically perfect kids we'd have.
I was in an extremely good mood going to Emily's. Despite the look Billy had given me before Rachel and I left, holding hands.
I was even humming the 'I'm walking on sunshine' song that I hate. Rachel laughed at me so I stopped.
When I arrived at Emily's I knew why.
She was there.
First, I saw her dancing, shaking her hips while flipping an egg to the music blasting from her cellphone. [See How to Wop and Cook Breakfast on YouTube to help imagine. Hahaha.]
"Turn around and wop, wop, wop, wop." I gaped at her as she shook some salt onto the egg.
"like DANG she fiiiine." The way she rolled her body almost gave me a hard-on right then and there.
Rachel cleared her throat and Gabby stopped mid-roll. She stayed in that position, gawking at Rachel and I. It felt good when she looked at me.
She has the prettiest lips, nice and thick. I bet they'd be so soft pressed against mine. She had the cutest little button nose to and deep brown eyes that seemed to shine. Her dark curls completed the look.
I can't believe I'd never noticed what was right in front of me.
I'm going soft. But I don't care.
I need her to be mine. Rachel's gasp was barely audible to me when I let go of her hand and walked inside, leaving her behind.
GABZ POV
If this wasn't the most embarrassing moment of my life, it was on the top 10 list.
Then I noticed Paul and Rachel holding hands.
Top Five.
I stopped staring at them after the song had finished and played again, since it was on repeat.
What can I say, it helps me get things done. How can you not want to get things done to this song? If you don't like this song, YOU have a hearing problem.
I stopped my rationalizing when Paul moved inside. My heart was beating. At the same time, I felt anger building up in me. Probably because of Rachel. It was the weirdest sensation, my anger growing in sync with every pump of my heart.
It was like my heart was being strangled.
That's poetic. I'll have to write that down somewhere no one would see.
PAUL POV
Gabby was definitely different. She looked hurt just a moment ago and now she was grinning like an evil villain from a cartoon. It warmed my heart. Jared had to be right. Okay, Paul. This could be a bad situation. Rachel's still here.
I wish she wasn't.
"Hon? Sit down. I'm going to go help in the kitchen." I really wish she wasn't here. I sat down anyway and felt her massage my shoulder. But I was almost numb to her touch while looking at Gabby.
My Gabby.
At least, she would be. She had to be, very soon. Or I'd go crazy.
Her grin went away when Rachel touched me. I'd do anything to make her smile again.
Was she jealous? I hate to say it but I loved the feeling that she might be. Or meant that she cared.
"Paul!" Sam? I really hoped he wouldn't... "Have you decided about Gabriella? She's a... oooh." He cringed when he realized Rachel was there. All hell was about to break lose. Rachel had a temper that rivaled mine. And she was holding a knife! I felt my body get up faster than my mind could tell it to, like it was some kind of reflex. I stood between her and the love of my life.
My Gabby. Soon.
I gripped Rachel's wrist as she almost stabbed me.
"Paul," she said in a quiet voice that was too calm, "What about Gabe?".
I wanted to defend Gabby. I wanted to make her fears go away and destroy anything that could hurt her.
But I didn't. Like the coward I am.
"Nothing hon." I regretted the words as soon as they came out of my mouth.
My guilt grew as everyone in the house looked at me in disbelief. What hurt the most was Gabby's expression. It was shock, anger, and... hurt? I'd fucked up.
Kind of. In a way I'd also done the right thing. Rachel might have physically hurt her if I'd said anything while she was still there.
Still the emptiness I felt as Gabby got her bag and left was unbearable. Yet I couldn't make myself go after her either with Rachel there.
GABZ POV
I don't know what I expected. Or why I'd expected anything else.
My pillow was there for me though. A shoulder to cry on and a punching bag all in one. Who needs Paul when I have my pillow!
Damn him! I hate him! This imprint stuff is bullshit. For sure this time! I'll never forgive him. He couldn't even tell Rachel he'd imprinted on me. It was true, even if he chose her. She'd probably be flattered too that his love for her was so strong that not even imprinting on me could make it go away.
I told Cameron I'd seen Paul naked. I left out the whole wolf and imprint thing. I told her he'd said he loved me when we talked at Billy's but rushed out when I didn't say anything back. I lied that it was tribe tradition when a guy liked a girl to confront them in front of the parents and since my dad wasn't part of the tribe, Billy did since he as the closest thing I had to a father in the tribe.
I felt bad when she believed me and advised me to forget him.
"Girl, Chris said he'd change for you. If I were you, that's who I'd pick. Not the temperamental guy who ran out before you could speak. Even if he big. I'm sure Chris is too. You'll never know if you don't try baby girl. Now stop moping'. Especially if he's after that Rachel bitch. You, are too good for that" she touched the tip of my nose at her last word. I was lucky to have a friend like her. Even if she's a perv.
"You're right. I'll just forget all about-" Just as I was saying the words, the devil himself walked in.
"Class we have a new transfer student from the reservation. Please be nice."
I hate math. I hate it, I hate it, I hate it. This has been an overall bad month for me. I'm the most unfortunate person in the world.
Damn this handsome boy.
"Oh girl, look. If Chris don't work, there's a gorgeous new student." Cameron nudged me.
"Cam. That's him." I let my head bang on the desk. Why me?
"Girl, forget what I said. You needa hit that.".
I shook my head no.
"Okay, then I will." I looked up just to glare at her, "Just joking. Damn lighten up.".
"There's a seat next to Miss Swan at their table, Mr. Lahote." the teacher pointed at me and I let my head bang on the table. Again. And again. And again.
"Sit properly Miss Swan." the teacher droned. I did so slowly with my eyes closed. When I opened them, I saw Cameron sitting across from me, smiling at me, her eyes glowing with excitement.
"Don't be rude Gabz." she taunted.
I looked at her.
Then at Paul.
Then back to Cam.
"I thought you were on my side."
"Girl, I am. You don't even know." she said, still smiling but now starting on her math assignment.
Math and Paul. The two things I hate most.
It must be the serial killer again. He wants me to kill myself like in those Saw movies.
The sadistic bastard.
PAUL POV
Gabby was looking around suspiciously.
Paranoid much?
She's weird like Jared said, that's for sure.
It sets her apart from everyone in the room. She was the only not doing her work. I'd do it for her but I'm no good at math. I wonder if she gets good grades. It's okay if she doesn't, but it'd make her even more wonderful, if that's even possible.
I looked up at her every few seconds. Then she would look at me so I'd get back to my work. When the bell rang she hadn't done anything and got straight up. Her friend, the one she'd brought to the reserve looked at me.
"You're not going to go after her? After you've been looking at her the whole period? You dumber than you look boy. That's a turn off."
Turn off? What if Gabby wouldn't like me cause I'm not some genius nerd? Shit, I'm hittin' the books tonight.
"Hey! Go get her!" I nodded then headed in the direction Gabby had gone.
I found her in the parking lot, of all places. Smoking a cigarette. Didn't she have asthma? Yeah, I remember she used to carry an inhaler around. Was she trying to kill herself? I took the cigarette out of her hand and threw it on the ground.
"Are you trying to fucking kill yourself?" Temper Paul. Breathe in.
"The hell do you care." she said nonchalantly.
"You're asthmatic. Don't lie. I remember you carrying that inhaler thing."
"So?" was all she said, shrugging.
The idiot. Why didn't she care? Didn't she have some form of self-preservation?
"You're killing yourself."
"Again. Why do you care? You couldn't defend me in front of Rachel but you can from cigarettes? Are you ashamed of me Paul? Think you're unlucky cause I'm the one you imprinted on? You don't even know me!" She stormed back towards the school.
Was I the reason she was doing this? No one said anything about her smoking before. I'd have to find out.
Luckily, I had English class with Cameron and the other girl I'd see her with a few times. Couldn't remember her name even if I tried. I sat next to Cameron.
"So, did you find her?" she raised an eyebrow at me. I nodded. Before she could ask what happened I blurted out.
"How long has she been smoking?".
She looked to the girl next to her who in turn, looked me up and down.
"Not long. Why?" the girl said. It was obvious she didn't like me by the tone of her voice. I could sense she was protective over Gabby. I liked her already. We'd be good friends.
"I found her smoking in the parking lot. She's asthmatic. I'm Paul by the way." I held out my hand.
"Well, maybe if you weren't such a douche, she wouldn't do stupid shit." she said, she looked at my hand for a moment before shaking it, "Nikki. La Gaby tells me and Cam everything. So, watch yourself boy.".
"Now, since we have time now. Who the fuck is Rachel?" Cameron put her hand on her hip.
Shit.
"No one important." I muttered. I really didn't want to talk about her.
"Oh, really now. That's now what I heard. How bout you Cam?". Nikki look from me to Cam.
"Mhm, she sure sounded like someone to me, Nikki." Both girls looked at me.
"Okay, okay. I'll tell you."
GABZ POV
Biology made me feel better. It got my mind off of Paul. How could it not?
We learned about Genetics and Reproduction. I wonder how many chromosomes shape-shifters have. Are the cold ones from the legends true too?
How many chromosomes would they have? My eyes flashed to Edward. If they were real, he was definitely one.
And of course, he was dating my sister. Bella was happy though so I'd just have to watch Edward closely. One slip-up and he was dead. Wait, vampires are already dead, right? So, if he was a dead vampire, he'd be super dead. Yeah!
I followed behind them to the cafeteria. I am so smooth. They didn't even notice me.
They were too into each other. I'm surprised they weren't sucking each other's faces off yet, the way they looked at each other.
Ha-ha. Suck. Ha-ha vampire.
Get it?
Unless he sucked Bella's blood.
Not funny!
Okay they're sitting with Bella's group.
Oh, Chris! Just in time.
I noticed suddenly that he wasn't as handsome as Paul. Although he was quite the Latino hottie; caramel skin, dark hair, and athletic body. Most of the girls in the school wanted him but he'd chosen me. Still, Chris was smaller than Paul though especially with Paul's werewolf genes. That meant, his winky was smaller too.
But it doesn't matter because I am not like that! Cameron and Nikki have tainted my mind!
He smiled when he caught my eye. I tried to smile back but I couldn't look him in the eye because of the dirty images in my mind, so it came out really awkward and most likely didn't look anywhere near a smile.
"Hey Gabz." he said when I sat next to him. Flirt mode on. I'll show you Paul! Two can play at this game. I'll make you regret the day you challenged Gabriella Rose Ateara Swan!
Bwahahah!
Okay stop it Gab. People are starting to notice. Back to whoring it up.
"Miss me?" I asked happily. Okay. Not sexy. I'm cute though, right?
Right?
Damn you inner monologue.
That pizza looks delicious. Stop! Get ahold of yourself woman! Resist that juicy slice of heavenly cheese and tomato goodness.
Gah!
I'm not hungry.
I'm not hungry.
I'm not hungry.
"You hungry Gab?"
"I'm not hungry." I said out loud.
"Oookay..." he said grabbing the slice of pizza. I flinched a little but Chris didn't notice.
That pizza must be really tasty then. I watched him eat it, getting a bit of tomato saucy goodness on the corner of his mouth.
Looking around, I saw Paul had entered the cafeteria... with Nikki and Cam
Okay, I'll figure that out later. I couldn't resist smiling so I made it a bitchy one as I slowly wiped the sauce off Chris's mouth with a napkin, giggling cutely.
I almost instantly regretted it.
I somehow felt the pain I saw on Paul's face. It only lingered a quick second then I saw the temper of the Paul I knew. I expected him to come and punch Chris in the face but he didn't. He turned on his heel, pushing past my two best friends, and disappeared down the hallway.
Well. Didn't see that coming.
"Que es su problema? (What's his problem?)" Chris asked. I didn't answer him. Instead I got up and followed after Paul like any girl from a cliche romance movie would. I caught up with him after a few minutes of tiresome 'brisk walking', as I like to call it. He turned away when he saw me and punched a locker.
Hey, I've never seen this locker before. Kind of looks like mine, from the girl's PE locker room but oh... boy's PE locker room.
"Why did you follow me?" he didn't turn around and I was glad. He sounded hurt, again. I didn't want to see him hurt again. I guess I'm that kind of person. I don't like seeing others hurt.
"Because it's my fault. I'm sorry. I didn't mean it." I don't apologize often but I felt it was the only way to make things better. Come to think of it, it was the first time I'd ever intentionally hurt someone. Maybe it was because I'd been bullied so much by the man standing in front of me. Back when he was a boy though, and he was obviously a man now. Okay not the time to admire his body. I bet he has nice abs though.
"Didn't mean to what? To be all over that Chris fucker? I didn't know you're such a little whore. I didn't think about this before I came here." Oh, hell no! Here I am trying to say sorry and he insults me! We can't have that. Think of something mean Gabz! Stupid Paul, coming here.
"Why did you come here?" That's all I could think of. Not too mean. I guess I didn't really want to hurt him.
"Isn't it obvious?" he finally faced me, his eyes wet as if a tear was about to fall. Dang, we weren't even together yet and he's crying over this? "Gabby," What the? He paused as if also unsure at the nickname he'd used, "I fucked up. I don't want to be with Rachel. I tried to fight the imprint because I don't want to get hurt. By you. But you're more amazing than I could ever imagine a girl to be. You keep getting even more so the more I get to know you. I'd be stupid to not even try."
Well, that's some Nicholas Sparks ass shit right there. Still, what happened at Emily's was fresh in my mind.
"Bet your balls you done fucked up. Why couldn't you say it to her then? You keep talking sweet but your actions don't back it up. Did you expect to just come here and I'd be okay with that? You left me at Billy's because I asked if I had a choice. Then you slip into Rachel's room without even a second glance at me. It's a little much, Paul. How can I trust you when all you've ever done was hurt me?" I felt I had the right to be dramatic. No one was around. And he was saying stuff that would really get my hopes up if I believed any of it.
"At Billy's I was in denial. And we've been together for years. I can't just forget that overnight!" He sounded just like Emily. He must've talked to her too. "Then at Emily's I realized that I wanted you more. You're perfect, Gabby."
Again, with the name, "I know I probably don't deserve you but hey maybe for once in my life I'll get lucky and you'll want me too. I think I need you, even if I don't want to."
"And you didn't tell Rachel because?" I felt like a recording on repeat. I didn't take to heart what he'd been saying. Except for that last part, for once in his life? Poor kid, no wonder he bullied me so much. Had to vent out all that frustration somewhere.
"She would've hurt you Gab. She had a knife in her hand. Even if I stopped her. I didn't want her to do anything crazy with you there."
That certainly put things into perspective.
"I told her as soon as you'd left. I let her slap me, punch me, whatever she wanted. I didn't care, as long as it was taken out on me and not you." Paul was out of breath after his long declaration of his feelings towards me. His chest was heaving a little.
So, he did tell her. He said something about wanting me, more right? I wonder if he'd get mad if I asked him to write everything down so I could analyze everything he said. Before I could say anything, his lips came crashing on to mine. My body reacted before I knew what was going on. He was surprisingly gentle.
I know I'm being cliché again but I felt safe in his arms. You know you would too, he's a big beefy man.
He's a freaking shape-shifting wolf spirit warrior for goodness sake! He kills vampires. Or at least the legends say so. If you have a shape-shifting wolf spirit warrior taking care of you and you don't feel safe, then you're paranoid and should seek medical attention immediately!
"Um, Gabby?" Why does he call me - hey, he's not kissing me anymore? Judging by his grin and the way he was raising his eyebrows at me in disbelief, I could tell he hadn't been kissing me for some time now. Had I really just stood there with my eyes close and lips puckered?
Puckered. Ha-ha that word makes me giggle. Paul started laughing with me.
"I stood there looking stupid for a while huh?" I asked. Wow, that's really embarrassing.
"Yeah, I stop when I noticed your eyebrows furrowing. At first, I thought you were in pain but I realized you must have been thinking about something so I let you be. I didn't want to disturb you but it was getting long so I kinda worried." As if standing there like an idiot wasn't humiliating enough.
"If you want to take back everything you just said, I'd understand." I meant it too. I wouldn't want to date someone as unusual as me. I wonder if I'd ever find anyone on my level. What would our kids be like? I was yet again interrupted by his kiss. I focused this time. I was the one to break away the second time.
"Should we get out of the boy's locker room? If someone caught us they'd think all kinds of nasty things, and honestly, I wouldn't blame them. They'd probably spread all kinds of rumors and I still wouldn't blame them cause it's my fault for putting myself in this position."
"Are those the kinds of things that normally go on in that cute little head of yours?" I shuddered a little as he ran his hands through my hair. It was so calming. I managed to nod slowly as he continued to rub my head.
"You're right though. Let's go." he whispered. I followed him without arguing.
I felt so relaxed I didn't even recap on what had just happened. Next thing I knew, we were in the parking lot getting onto his big motorcycle.
"What happened to your pick-up?" I wondered out loud. It'd be nice to have him around so I'd stop talking to myself so much. Pick-ups seemed to be a thing for people from the reservation. I got mine from Billy and fate probably gave it to me and Bella because I'm half Native American. Stereotyping again I see Gabz. At least it's against my own kind this time. That makes it okay. I think.
"I didn't want it to be so obvious I'm from the Rez. And I thought you might be embarrassed by me." he shrugged and was suddenly fascinated with the Gas tank meter on his bike.
Although it's really shiny and pretty, I think he was just feeling shy about what he was saying. He didn't seem like the kind of guy who shared his feelings often. Imprinting get to you I guess. Or was he this sweet with Rachel?
"You obviously haven't seen Bella and I's ride. Try to spot it now. Sticks out like a sore thumb around here." I motioned to the rest of the parking lot. I assumed he spotted it because he laughed a little.
"You don't sound sure. What're you thinking?" he asked. How did he know? Might as well say it. So, he could end things before he started anything he might regret.
"Did you break up with Rachel?" There. I said it. He paused, making my heart race might I mention. This boy was no good for my heart, I swear. I let out the air I'd been holding when he nodded and was able to breathe normally.
"Let's go?" he asked without looking at me.
"Uh, don't we have class?" His jaw clenched as if he'd realized something.
"You don't have to come. I'm being a bad influence, aren't I? I don't think I can control myself if I see that Chris guy again but you can stay if you want." he kicked a rock on the ground near his foot.
"I didn't say that. I just wanted to make sure you knew, being your first day here and all. Pretty crazy first day though, huh?" I joked as I got on behind him. He laughed before putting his helmet on. He gave me one as well. It was red. How did he know my favorite color? Had he been stalking me?
Was he the serial killer?
Nah, he would've let Rachel do it then.
Unless he wanted to do it himself.
"Where are we going?" I yelled. He probably didn't hear me. I kind of recognized the place. I knew we were one the Rez but not exactly where. I thought it was maybe the beach but we had just passed the side road leading to it.
Oh my gosh. He's going to kill me. This whole imprinting on me thing was a joke.
He pulled off another road not too far from the one going to the beach.
I finally recognized the place as the Cliff's. Was he going to make me jump off?
Goodbye cruel world. I just want to say I love my sister and father and dog. And everyone on the Rez. Jacob included. Even Paul. Nikki and Cam as well. I'll miss everyone in Forks. At least I'll get to see my momma again.
"Gab? You alright?" Of course not. It's human instinct to be not okay before dying. Hasn't he heard of fight or flight? Maybe he has and he liked to see me suffer. Damn him.
"Why are you looking at me like that? Are you mad about Rachel again? I'm sorry, it won't happen again! Gab please!" My heart wasn't made of stone. Even if he was about to kill me, my feelings ran deep.
"Why are we here?" I wasn't so rude to outright ask if he was going to kill me. So, I played it smooth.
"I couldn't think of anywhere else to go that we wouldn't get in trouble for cutting classes." I was smooth but he was smoother.
"I should text Bella so she won't worry. And Nikki and Cameron." To say my finally goodbye. He nodded in agreement.
'Bells, I'll get a ride home from school later. See you at home.'
'Nik, Cam, I'm at the cliffs with Paul. Didn't feel like going to class. You know why. I'll explain tomorrow.' If I was alive, that is. At least they'd know where to find the body now.
Paul took my hand and led me towards the edge. This was it, I thought.
Just as I began to say my prayers, he sat down on the ledge. Didn't see that coming. I never do with this guy.
"I don't know how to swim." Not that it would matter if I hit my head on one of the rocks. See, I told my dad swimming lesson would've been a waste of time.
"Really?" He laughed. I didn't see how that was comical. Learning to swim is a waste of time.
"Yeah. why?"
"Nothing. I could teach you sometime you know." I shook my head furiously. "Like now?". I felt myself freeze. He was taking of his shirt and pants. Leaving just a pair of shorts on. No wonder he felt so warm, all that clothing. Under clothing. Under clothing. How many layers is he wearing?
Then he jumped.
Oh, my fucking gosh, he jumped! Was that a suicide attempt? Maybe he thought I'd come after him. Ha-ha, nice try Mr. Serial Killer, you thought I'd -
And now, here I am falling after jumping off the cliff. I don't know why but my body seems to be drawn to him. So here I am screaming at the top of my lungs, flailing my arms around and kicking my legs cause that's I've seen swimmers do on tv, and I wasn't sure when I'd hit -
Splash! Water. Cold, cold water. I love that when I finally decide to get in the water is the day I didn't wear a wet suit. Wait, why is it getting warm? I should open my eyes. I looked to see Paul smiling with his arms around me. He then swam near the rocky side of the cliffs and held on. He then started laughing harder than I've ever seen him laugh.
"You. Should. Have. Seen. Your. Self. Fall" he said in between laughs, trying to stop himself at the same time. I didn't find it funny at all. I could have died by hitting my head, or drowning.
Just as he started to calm down, a wave came along and hit me right in the face. When it passed, I spit the water out from my mouth, all over Paul's face. He suddenly got serious.
"Gross. Better wash off." he grinned, which made me suspicious. I didn't have time to think of any insane ideas, because he dunked us both in the water. When we came up I was coughing out sea water I'd swallowed dramatically. I hadn't actually choked on any. He rolled his eyes.
Paul gave up trying to teach me to swim after about 20 minutes. I just couldn't float.
"You are never to go near any large body of water that has a depth beyond 3 and a half feet, without me. Got it?" he sounded somewhat frustrated. Wait, I'm 5'1 1/2" inches. That's almost two feet above three and a half. I think. Hey, cut me some slack, we all know I'm no good at math. I did my best to give Paul a dirty look and raise an eyebrow at him. He merely chuckled at me so it wasn't very effective. I decided to use my beautiful voice. And yes, I do enjoy that sound of my own voice. Jacob doesn't agree but he can go fall off a cliff. Like I just did.
"I'm a lot taller than three and a half feet, ya know." I said matter-of-factly, not forgetting to place a hand on my hip and attempt the raised eyebrow thing again. He didn't laugh this time. He kept his eyes looking somewhere in the distance. I followed his gaze just to make sure there wasn't some guy with a chainsaw out there.
"We can't be sure with your lack of swimming skills and the fact that you're easily distracted by your own thoughts may put you in danger in such a situation." Well, damn. Nice to know he really believes in me. I'm being sarcastic, by the way. I decided to not respond to his comment and just follow him on to his motorcycle. He kissed me but I stayed still like a statue and resisted kissing him back.
That's what you get, big fat bully!
I was ecstatic when I saw Jacob and Billy were over for dinner. With Harry Clearwater's special fish! I love fish, especially fish tacos. I now enjoyed them more because they could swim and I can't but look where it got them! Dead and yummy in my tummy! Ha-ha! I get the last laugh!
I introduced Paul to my dad, who gave a firm handshake and reminded him that he was chief of police and knew how to use a shotgun. Very well, he added.
After that awkward moment, they went in the living room to watch some football on the flat screen. I was in the kitchen using some of the fish to make fish tacos. Just as I was chopping cilantro, Paul came in and picked up my cellphone.
What. The. Hell?
He flipped on some music. As soon as I heard 'Uh ohhh, J. dash', I recognized the song instantaneously. I resist the urge to dance.
I am not proud of my actions which have proven my weaknesses. I held until the chorus came on.
'Wop, wop, wop.'
My body moved on its own, I swear. My mind could not control it and eventually gave in. It gave a good fight and I was able to look at Paul angrily while my body began to move to the beat. But soon, I couldn't help but enjoy the song. Curse you J. Dash and your booty-shaking music!
I even sang along shamelessly at the next bridge.
"I made a lil bit of moneeeeey, I paid my bills!" I put the knife down and motioned my hands in a 'Come get it' fashion while shaking my hips and moving backwards. I did the wop when the chorus came again. Shamelessly. I'm hopeless.
The expression Paul had on was unreadable. It was like he thought it was funny but was turned on at the same time. Could he really be turned on by this? Well, then. I continued until the song finished. When it did, I resumed cooking. The silence in between songs is always awkward. Why does it take so long? Is there a setting on my phone somewhere to change that? If there wasn't I'm going to take whatever course in college that cellphone designers take and I shall event a cellphone that does. It'll have gold casing with rhinestones too. Yeeahh.
You know that thing where my hips and body react to the music before I even realize it? If you forgot, you're ADHD is worse than mine and you should seek medical help. I had just mentioned it. Anyways, it did that again as 'Loca' by Shakira came on. Really? In the span of less than four minutes, my body had done this twice.
It was funny because the song is about Shakira singing to another girl whose man left her for Shakira. Like me and Rachel. Is it bad that I find it funny? I think any girl would. I'm only human after all.
'El esta por mi, y por ti borro. (He's for me, and you're erased)Eso que tu tienes todo y yo ni un kiki (Even though you have it all and I have no money )
Yo soy loca con mi tigre- (I'm crazy with my tiger)'
Paul switched the song. Did he understand? Or did he not like the song? I hoped it was the latter. Because if he understood and it reminded him of what I was thinking, then he must've felt remorse? Why? Rachel's dad is a shifter and so is her brother. She'd understand eventually that I'm what the fates wanted. Maybe someone would imprint on her too. Rumors even said she'd already found someone at whatever college she went to. Did Paul know that? He must've loved her alot if he knew and didn't do anything. Should I ask if he knew? Did it even matter to him anymore?
I couldn't ponder on it because she-wolf came on and once again I began to shake my hips. It's just so catchy. Hey, she-wolf. Could I be considered one? I'll be sure to include it if I ever make a soundtrack of my life. This song was in english so Paul definitely understood. Even if it wasn't I knew he got it from the look on his face which had gone back to the odd kind-of want-to-laugh-but-it's-also-somehow-sexy expression from earlier.
Jacob came in, and didn't pay attention. He was used to this. He grabbed another beer which I hoped was for his or my dad because I don't want underage drinking under this roof!
My dad came in after and then it got awkward. Neither Paul nor I noticed him come in until he cleared his throat. I stopped dancing, Paul turned off the music and made his way back to the living room. He got a beer from the ref. before leaving. Damn these wild children. And why wasn't my dad, chief of police as he'd reminded Paul earlier, doing anything to stop them?
Damn them all.
And where was my loving sister and only other female companion in this house?
"Dad! Where's Bella?" He didn't answer. So, I said it again. And again. And again. I was about to say it again until he screamed that she was upstairs, probably annoyed by me interrupting. Serves them right. I happily made my way upstairs to Bella's room. When I got there, she was toying with an iPod that looked new and was attached to an equally new looking apple laptop.
"Gabz, check out what dad bought me." She motioned for me to come look at her new gadgets. Show-off. "Dad said to give you my CD player and desktop. I already put it on your desk. Who took you home? Rumor has it you and some big guy from the Rez got into an argument.". I don't know if she was trying to offend me that I always got her second-hand things but I was extremely offended. As annoyed as I was with the boys downstairs, I still didn't want to hurt dad by fighting with Bella or showing that I was envious. So, I focused on her last statement.
"Yeah that's Paul." Was all I could think of. I wasn't in the mood for girl talk and it was a little awkward with her. She's kind of manly sometimes. She makes the weirdest facial expressions too that get me distracted.
"Isn't that the kid that used to bully you?" her brows furrowing and mouth slightly ajar in the weird way… Okay Gabz, control yourself. Look at her forehead or something. Good work. Now, answer.
"Yeah, but he's been nice since that get-together at the beach you didn't go to." I chose my words carefully. I'm not dumb enough to let the cat out of the bag, or wolf I guess, but I didn't want to say anything suspicious. Bella has this problem where she thinks she has to know everything. It could be a good thing at times, like in school, solving murder cases, or things of the sort. She had bought a book on the tribe's legends so I assumed she knew what Edward is but it's not her business to know what Paul and the others are. I hope Jacob wouldn't spill the beans. I don't which side she would take if it came to choosing one.
"Ah, I see. And… how do you feel?" she's almost as awkward as dad. Nikki and Cam make much better conversation. Even Jacob was better than this. But I think this is the kind of sisterly bonding we're supposed to have so I'll give it a shot.
"I like him. A lot I think. Even if we just started dating, if you could even call it that." That's kind of true I guess. It wasn't a lie. Just not the whole truth.
"I think I know what you mean. You've probably heard about Edward and I." More than she knew. I nodded anyways. "I'm going to his place tomorrow. To meet his family." I don't know if she noticed my eyes widen for a second. Oh well, she wouldn't expect that I was thinking she was crazy for agreeing to go into a house full of vampires. I guess I'd react that way too if she was going to a guy she just met's house all by herself. I'd probably come with her too. Ooh, good idea!
"I'll go with you. Bells, I'm sure he's a nice guy but I'd rather be sure nothing happens to you. I'll bring Paul too if it's alright. We won't interrupt." Well I'd try not to. Couldn't be sure with me and my big mouth. She paused for a moment before answering.
"Fine. I'll ask Edward later. Uh, I'll call him." For some reason, I got the feeling she wouldn't be calling. I'd been hearing weird sound coming from her room for a few nights, which was weird because I've always been a heavy sleeper until recently.
"Why not now? So, I could tell Paul. Great timing, he's downstairs right now watching football with dad." I challenged. She froze for a few seconds but then nodded reaching for her phone. Had I been tallying points between Bella and I's wins? If not, I'm starting now. One point for Gabz. Heck yes!
"Hey, Edward." My eyes didn't leave her face with its current almost humorous scrunched up manner. "I was wondering if it was cool to bring my sister and her boyfriend over tomorrow…". There was a long pause. Was Edward scared? Did he know who my boyfriend was? Well, he's not exactly my boyfriend yet but it's the most casual term for soul-mate I can think of. Boy toy is just a little… off. Does Edward know what Paul is? "Okay cool. We'll be there. I can't wait. Okay, bye. ". Bella speaks in such a monotonous way sometimes. It didn't quite fit with what she was saying. She said she can't wait but doesn't sound too excited. She wasn't like this before… I guess I'd better tell Paul what he was doing tomorrow.
"Hey, uh, dad. Billy" I nodded at Billy then looked back at my dad. "Could I talk to Paul for a sec? I wanted to show him something outside. For our… biology project. ". My dad looked at Paul.
"Hurry up, half-time is almost over." He smiled and smacked him lightly on the arm. Since when did they become all buddy-buddy? Did I miss something while I was upstairs? Paul smiled back then got up to come with me outside. I had definitely missed something.
"Your dad is great Gabz." He said before I could ask.
"'Course, he is. He's related to me." I pointed a thumb at myself. "Anyways, you might've guessed it's not a bio project. Um… you might not like what I'm about to say." He cocked and eyebrow at me. Why can't I do that? I looked up towards Bella's window. I pulled us farther towards the woods, just to make sure she wouldn't overhear anything. " But here goes nothing," I took a deep breath, "I told Bella we'd go with her to Edward's place tomorrow. To meet his family."
"No." Paul stated simply, not even pretending to think about it. "You know what they are and what we are. It can't be good to put us all in one place." I couldn't believe him. My vision began to take on a slightly red tone. I didn't even know that was possible.
"Yeah, I know all that. But that's the reason we have to go. Bella might get hurt! "I had to protect her. She is my only sister, not to mention it would kill my dad if anything happened to her. If it wasn't for the whole keeping supernatural creatures a secret thing, I'd tell on Paul to my dad and ruin whatever relationship they had built in the past 45 minutes.
"It's her choice to go with them. She knows what she's getting herself into." My vision turned a very dark bloody red in which I could barely make out Paul's outlined figure. So, this is what rage feels like. Coolio. Back to the situation at hand, I couldn't believe he was being such an inconsiderate ass!
"It doesn't matter what stupid shit she gets into. Sisters protect their sisters. If you don't want to go, fine, I'll go without you!" his eyes widened a little. Scared Paul? Good, I have you right where I want you. "And you can forget everything that happened today while you're at it. Then switch back schools and go back with Rachel. I bet if it was her sister or Jacob, you'd do it." A venom that I didn't know I possessed was in my voice as I said it.
"Baby, don't." I was not going to fall for the puppy dog eyes. No way. Gabz you're stronger than this. Do the forehead thing like with Bella. There. When did he even start calling me 'baby'?
"Mhm. Don't 'baby' me, mojo. I've made my decision, now make yours." Okay, so technically he was older than me and I don't really speak Spanish but it gave the dramatic edge I was going for.
"Gabby. Ugh, I can't believe I'm about to agree on this." Yes, my over-sized minion. Say it. "I'll go with you. But I'm staying outside." I'd figure out a way to lure him in. Some kind of delicious smelling pastry perhaps. "And let me remind you, that I can't do anything on their land. So, it'll be useless.". That hadn't occurred to me but being the genius, I am, I was able to think of something fast.
"You can grab Bella and run. I don't think I'd be able to lift her." He took a deep breathe then sighed loudly while exhaling, his hands were on his hips. He didn't say anything but he nodded.
Once again, I considered myself victorious.