Author's Note: Dear Readers, I would like to apologize for the delay in getting this chapter posted. Unfortunately, I've been going through some real life issues so haven't had the opportunity to devote all my attention to updating this fic. However, that said, I hope you will forgive me by reading this chapter from Jasper's POV. Yes, that's right I decided to put a chapter up from the blonde hotties perspective. I hope this will suffice until I submit the next one (which is almost finished..yay!). Thank you for your patience and happy reading!
Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight but everything is else is up for grabs.
Chapter 4 - Awaken
Today was a shit day. I'd already had a few pissed off clients who were running late to work this morning and they did nothing to improve my mood or my patience. What did I care if they were running late? It gave me the shits when people put the blame on others for their problems. Idiots.
My last client was a clingy bitch who couldn't take no for an answer. I don't get women, why is it when a man says no a woman thinks that he is playing hard to get? How much clearer does a man have to be?I thought I was pretty damn articulate when I told the bitch that I wasn't interested. Of course those weren't my exact words but what I did say was harsh but clear. If I thought that would hinder her however, I was very mistaken.
I'd never met anyone so self absorbed and well, plastic. Most people would assume that I was into the big ass, big boobs, blonde hair and overly tanned female but that's bullshit. I like 'em down to earth and natural. Just the way God created 'em. Unfortunately I couldn't tell the broad to shove it because apparently it was not good for the business and knowing Cullen, he'd beat the shit out of me for losing a client.
I decided the best plan of action was ignorance. So that's what I did. I ignored the bitch the rest of the way, and laughed manically at her reflection in my rear view mirror when I sped off with her fare.
I looked down at my watch, it was 3' o'clock and still no page from the centre. I'd be stoked if my afternoon remained just like this. Uneventfulness was welcome anytime in my books. Driving was an exhausting exercise, but, it paid decent money so I couldn't complain really. Gigging in bars could only get me so far.
I felt a vibration in my pocket. Pulling my mobile out I glanced down at the caller ID. I had a soft spot for this one. Throwing my smoke into nearby scrub, I flipped the mobile open.
"Alice"
"Hey babe, I miss you. Are you still working?" she asked in her sweet voice.
"Yeah babe, on a break at the moment though. Last client was not my cup of tea." I replied dryly. I winced at the thought of ever crossing paths with the blonde bimbo again. Once in my lifetime was more than enough.
"You didn't do anything did you" Alice screeched in what should be an illegal octave.
I chuckled loudly, "C'mon Alice. What could I possibly do? I couldn't hurt a fly."
"Of course not, I know that Jazz." she said apologetically.
"But," she continued.
"After the last time...I just had to check. I didn't mean to jump to conclusions. It's just Emmett has really gone out on a limb for you. I don't want you to screw this up." She said, her voice softening.
"Don't worry babe. Everything is fine and you would be proud of me, I saw her home safe and sound. You know Al, all this caring and shit makes me love you that much more." I purred into the phone.
"Stop teasing Jazz." she giggled." You know I love you."
I smiled despite myself. The girl had been throwing herself at me since we first met. I had to admire her persistence.
"Jazzy I need your help. Eddies coming to stay but I can't get him from the airport. Can you?" She pleaded with her sweet angelic voice. I could picture her trademark pout coming into play and knew I didn't stand a chance against it.
I guess the thought of having an afternoon off was too good to be true.
"Sure. It'll take me awhile to get there though, just let him know that OK."
"Thanks babe, you are the best. I'll make it up to you tonight," she whispered seductively.
"Sure sure Al, you're all talk, no play. See you later."
I put the phone back in my pocket and gazed out at the wide expanse of ocean before me. I loved this spot at Broadbeach. It was my place. The only spot I could come to on a shit day to find peace and solace. My only consolation is that no-one knew about this place, not even Alice. It just isn't something I could share with them or anyone for that matter. Sighing, I grabbed my half eaten egg and lettuce sandwich and jumped up from my makeshift picnic area. Slowly, I made my way towards the main road where my cab was parked. God, it was ugly. Whoever thought black and orange was a good mix was seriously deluded. I grabbed the keys, unlocked the door and dumped my sandwich in the centre console before starting the ignition.
Thank fuck this was my last job.
It wasn't my last job.
An hour and a half later, I was surprised to see that I was the only cab pulling into the rank outside the terminal doors of the airport. This was new, normally the rank was packed, well, at least the times that I have bothered to travel to the airport it was full. I didn't make a habit of coming up from the coast, I liked to keep it local. Not worth travelling this far out for a small fare I say.
There weren't any passenger's waiting for a taxi so I hopped out of my cab, desperate for a smoke. My legs were fucking sore from the drive. Ok, I know I sound like a pussy but driving almost 12 hours straight with few breaks is bloody painful on the limbs, not to mention my mental state.
Once I found my lighter, I lit the smoke and took a deep drag. I felt calm flow through me immediately and at that moment everything seemed a little more bearable. I know smoking this shit is a killer but the temporary relief from pain was addictive, hence my addiction.
I heard the glass sliding doors of the terminal open behind me. I took one last drag and threw the butt in the trashcan nearby. It was too early for it to be Eddie so I figured I might as well take the fare while I'm waiting. The moment I see pretty boy though, I'm going to clock him for making me drive all the way here the little shit.
I pulled some gum from my pocket and popped it in my mouth, can't have the client complaining about my stink breath. The whole practice of chewing was totally pointless but entertaining nonetheless.
I drew in a sharp breath as I turned to greet my potential client. Standing before me was the most exquisite creature I had ever laid eyes on. Her dark brown hair fell in messy waves around her perfect heart shaped face. Her skin, a milky white, rivalled porcelain especially with the way it complimented the darkness of her chocolate brown eyes which were beyond captivating. Her eyes were by far the most tempting of her features. They held so much depth and wisdom I longed to kiss the soft violet of each lid. My eyes greedily travelled down her face past the cute button nose to linger over her pink luscious lips which I craved to touch with my own. She was stunning even in the pair of old jeans and loose tee she was wearing.
I was so overwhelmed by this stranger's beauty I almost didn't notice the glorious sound of her humming. Although soft, it pushed me over the edge and I was overcome with lust. I fought back the urge to take her then and there, a deep growl threatening to erupt from within.
NO! I could NOT be thinking this way about this supreme specimen because a) it was very disturbing and b) I was on the job.
My self-assessment of priorities pulled me out of my delirium and back to reality. It was here, that I realised that she was completely oblivious of my presence. Even though I was less than two metres away and in her direct line of vision, she still hadn't noticed me? Well damn, that was depressing. I was used to girls thrusting themselves at me so was a little disappointed that the only woman, who surpassed them all in every aspect, didn't notice me.
Ah hell, Edward could wait for forever if it means I get to spend some time with this goddess.
"G'day, miss. Where you headed"
My words seemed to have brought her out of her daze however the shock of seeing me had rendered her speechless.
I watched her curiously. Although she had not uttered a single a word, I could sense her desire the moment our eyes connected. I held my breath when I watched as her eyes slid from my face and down my body, her breaths getting heavier the lower her eyes travelled...
'Miss?' I cried out in the hopes that it would snap her out of the ogling session. She still hadn't answered me and I was anxious to get in the cab so I could hide my growing arousal.
"Wh-what?"
"Where you headed? Did you have an address?"
She was clearly disorientated. I attributed this to a long flight but unless she wanted to see me pitch a tent, she had better respond and soon.
I glanced down at the slip of paper she passed me. I couldn't believe my luck, how the hell? Ah well, who I am to question the fates. I handed the paper back to the beauty and explained that it would be a bit of a trip. She didn't mind, she had the money.
I gave her my best grin and then grabbed her bags and put them in the boot.
Once I was done, I could see her contemplating whether to sit in the front or back. I told her to jump in the front but startled her. I quickly apologised and was ashamedly excited when she finally decided sit up front with me.
The first 20 minutes of the ride was awkward. I wanted to say something, anything, but my ability to speak was defunct in her presence.
I couldn't handle the silence so I switched on the radio and settled back in my seat. Bon Iver, I didn't mind this band. I actually did a few covers of their songs on open mic' night at Emmett's bar a couple of times. His music meant something. It haunted my dreams.
A soft melodious voice entered my train of thought, blending harmoniously with the haunting sound of St Vincent and Bon Iver. I looked over at the dark haired beauty beside me and bit down on my lip hard to stop the loud groan ready to burst forth. God, she was beautiful with her head rested on the seat, eyes closed and lips parted slightly to allow her glorious sound toshine through. She was completely unaware of her surroundings, so lost within herself. It was extraordinary. I craved every part of her being.
It was in that moment that I realised just how wrong I was. To even consider pursuing anything with this beautiful woman was ludicrous. She was the epitome of innocence and beauty I will not, cannot taint her. She is just too, too good.
What the hell is wrong with me?
I gave myself a mental slap and fixed my gaze back to the road afraid to look back at her in case I lost control of the cab. Who was I kidding? As if we could ever be together. I was losing control of my senses and I didn't like it. I don't know who this girl is but I will not allow myself to feel anything for her. My mind flashed to thoughts of Emmett in his birthday suit and that quickly snapped me out of it.
The rest of the ride went quickly. At some point during the journey she had fallen asleep and I was happy because it gave me free reign to memorize every aspect of her without getting caught.
I was snapped out of my dreamy haze by a vibration coming from my leg. I pulled my mobile from my pocket and checked the caller ID. Alice.
"Hey Al, what's up?" I said nervously. If Eddie boy was already at the airport I was screwed.
"Jazzy, you've been a naughty boy. Which poor damsel did you kidnap this time," Alice asked in a sickly sweet voice. I knew it all too well, she was pissed.
"Sorry babe, I was waiting at the rank for awhile when this chick approached me, she needed a ride. I was the only cab at the rank." I half lied.
"It's ok Jazzy, Eddie's flight was delayed. He's due to land in another hour and a half. Will that give you enough time to get back to the airport?" she asked, dropping the act.
"Sure, should be fine. Look Al, I've got to go. I'm almost at the drop off point for this fare. See you soon." I ended the phone call and checked that I didn't wake sleeping beauty.
I don't know why I was so careful around this woman but the more time I spent with her the more dangerous it was and despite the fact that we barely know each other I couldn't stand the thought of her getting hurt.
I turned into the strip and felt her stir beside me. I glanced at her out the corner of my eyes and suppressed a smile at the look of awe on her face. God, why did she have to be so bloody enticing with those big doe eyes? I felt the material of my jeans begin to tighten and moved my hand discreetly to cover the bulge. Thank fuck we were here, I had never broken out in a sweat so much in my life and my not so little man was getting claustrophobic.
I helped her take her bags inside and shot Aro a look before he called out my name. He gave me a confused look but shrugged his shoulders indifferently. I'd have to explain later, I just didn't want Alice to know I was here yet. I'd deal with her when the time came.
When she gave me the money for the trip I was sad to say goodbye but in a way I felt lighter. I wasn't good for her and the more time I spent with her, the more I was convinced that I was right. She was in a different league than me and she would never want to know me if she knew the truth.
We exchanged an awkward goodbye and I left her standing in the middle of the foyer, without a backward glance.
I had puffed my way through a whole pack of ciggies, been to the gents four times and even had time for a short nap before I saw pretty boy exit the terminal. About bloody time! I'd been waiting for almost two hours. It had taken just under an hour to get to the airport after I dropped off the angel.
Yeah, I stupidly didn't even ask the broad for her name so figured since she reminded me so much of an angel it was only appropriate to refer to her as one. The whole drive I was consumed by thoughts of her. I knew I would see her again but it wouldn't be the same. I wouldn't be the same. I would maintain my distance, there's nothing wrong with admiring her from afar.
I hopped out of the car and leant against the passenger door, might as well have another smoke before the long drive back.
"Hey, you're Jasper right?"
Eddie boy asked dropping his bags and holding out his hand in greeting. I nodded my confirmation, ignoring his hand and pushed up off the car, flicking my ciggie in the pyramid of butts I had created out of boredom.
"That's me. Hop in, I'm tired as fuck and need a feed." I grunted grabbing his bags and throwing them in the boot.
Once done, I jumped in the driver's seat, turned up the radio and sped out of the rank, two things at the forefront of my mind, food and sleep.
"So, I just wanted to thank you for coming to get me. Alice mentioned that she called in a favour so I appreciate you taking the time out to come get me!" Eddie said genuinely.
Damn, why'd he have to be so damn nice?
"No problem mate. I'd do anything for Alice. She's a sweet girl." I replied truthfully.
After a long awkward moment, I decided to break the silence.
"How long you do plan on staying in Australia for?" I asked, my curiosity getting the better of me.
"Not sure. I'm just here to visit Emmett and Alice. Haven't decided when I'll go back." He answered. I looked over at him and noticed his frustrated expression.
"What's up man? You look like shit!" I joked in an effort to lighten the mood. I hate to admit it but I was starting to feel guilty for being a douche earlier.
He broke out in a smile then and flipped me the bird. I laughed heartily turning my attention back to the road.
"Thanks, not that I care what I look like right now asshole. But, I just can't stop thinking about this girl..."
"Alright shut right the fuck up now if you're going to start telling me your broken hearted story." I started saying before he rudely interrupted me.
"If you let me finish then you would know it's not like that!" he sighed heavily.
I looked over at him and saw his weary expression and held back my retort.
"Alright, I'm sorry. Continue."
"Ok. I know this sounds stupid but I think I'm in love." He started.
"Your right, you do sound stupid." I grunted. He ignored me and continued with his story.
"Anyway, I met this girl at the airport in Washington and man, she is so fucking beautiful. She's all I've been thinking of the whole flight here. I know she was coming to Australia but I don't know where."
I couldn't contain my laughter. This was so fucking hilarious, pretty boy was having a breakdown because he thinks he is in love with some lame chick he just met. What a pussy.
"Yeah laugh about it all you want. I don't care what you think and I certainly don't expect you to understand. Bella and I are meant for one another. I can feel it, she sings to me." he growled passionately.
I wiped the tears that had appeared after my laughing fit from my eyes with the sleeve of my shirt and swallowed back the peals of laughter which threatened to pass through my lips once more. He was wrong about one thing, I did understand. If I could rewind back a few hours I would make sure I got my Angel's name. I wouldn't call what I felt for her love but it was more than a typical episode of infatuation.
I knew I had to make amends to I gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
"I'm sorry man but that shit is just too fucking funny. Who knows maybe you'll bump into her by accident" I offered up.
"I hope so. I have to find her Jasper. I don't know what I'll do if she's already spoken for but I have to at least try."
Peak hour traffic had passed so it didn't take long to get back to the Coast. The rest of the car trip remained quiet after the conversation about Edward's mysterious Bella, well with the exception of the radio. We stopped in at McDees to get a feed before I dropped Edward off to Emmett's place. Somehow, time fucking flew by because when I looked down at my watch it was 9.30pm.
After dropping Edward off to the bar (Emmett's apartment is above the bar 'Bounty"), I made my way home. Alice had left a note on the dining table letting me know I had an hour before I had to be at the bar for Rosalie's birthday party. I was bloody exhausted but missing Rosalie's party would spell out doom for the rest of my life.
Aside from Alice, Rosalie was the only other girl I would consider a friend. We had actually grown quite close since she arrived in Australia given that Emmett and I are best friends. She's a prime chick and I know I can be myself around Rosalie without judgement.
I walked my tired limbs over to the kitchen and poured myself a glass of my favourite whiskey, Alice had left a note on the bottle. "You have 50 mins. Get in the shower then have a nap. I have set your alarm. Love u, Alice x"
I chuckled at the note, she was so fucking annoying and overbearing but I'm not going to lie, I loved the girl. She brought me back from my darkest place and I'm indebted to her.
I quickly downed my spirit and peeled off my uniform on my way to the shower. As I hopped under the spray of warm water, I was a pleasantly surprised at the sweet scent of strawberries that lingered in the air. Alice must have bought a new shower gel. I'd have to show her my appreciation.
After a quick shower, I put on a pair of comfy track pants and collapsed onto my bed. I was keen for some much needed shut eye.
It felt like I had only just closed my eyes when the stupid alarm went off. I reached for the irritating device and threw it carelessly at my wall so it could shut the hell up. Just as I was about to settle back into a comfortable sleep, my mobile started vibrating against the dining table, creating a loud grating noise which after a few tries at ignoring it, made it impossible for me to get back to sleep.
I reluctantly hopped out of the bed and walked into the kitchen ready to give Alice an earful. Flipping my still ringing mobile open, I got straight to the point.
"What the fuck, Alice?"
"Don't you dare talk to me like that Jasper Whitlock!" she screeched loudly. I winced, she was not happy.
"You were supposed to be here 20 minutes ago. If your ass isn't here in 10 minutes, I am going to make your life hell."
I heard the phone click and sighed warily. She was always fucking on the go. She needed to realise that not everyone could keep up with her bloody alien pace.
I splashed some water on my face before putting on my outfit Alice had prepared earlier. Emmett's bar was only a couple of blocks away so it was easier to walk. As I approached the bar, I knew it was going to be full on. The music was pumping as I walked through the bar doors. I gave a small nod to Felix who was manning the door and headed straight to the bar. Alice mentioned that Rose's party was happening in the Private Lounge so I figured I'd steer clear of there for a bit. I needed a drink pronto if I was going to get through tonight.
I was thinking back on today's events when a familiar scent washed over me. I looked around the main bar to pinpoint the owner of the scent when I saw her. She was practically fucking James in one of the corner lounges. I felt a sharp sting in my hand but I was livid at seeing the two of them together I didn't really notice it. It took all of my self-control and restraint to remain seated.
"Hey, ease up on that man." I heard someone say.
I turned towards the voice and found that Edward had taken up the stool beside me. I looked down at the shards of glass in my bloody hand and realised that I had gripped the glass too hard in my hand and had caused it to smash.
"Ah shit. Jacob can you get me a cloth." I yelled to the bartender who looked over at me, shook his head and then went out back, I assumed to get me a cloth.
"Here let me have a look at it." Edward said, grabbing my hand an inspecting it closely.
"The cuts aren't too deep. You'll live." He chuckled, grabbing the cloth from Jacob and wiping the blood off my hand. He then, and I'm not kidding, he pulled out a pair of tweezers and starts to pick out the small shards of glass in my hand.
"What the fuck man, you carry tweezers?" I asked incredulously. What was up with this guy?
"Yeah." He shrugged as if it was fucking normal for a guy to carry tweezers on him. I winced as he pulled the last piece of glass out of my hand.
"Thanks man." I was grateful that he had my back. It was lucky he said something otherwise my hand wouldn't be the only thing that was injured in this room.
"What happened? Did you want to talk about it? He said carefully.
"Nah, I'm good." I motioned to Jacob for a refill and slammed it down, thankful for the warm burn as the whiskey coursed down my throat. I didn't need to be reminded of the she-wolf behind me and the beast she was playing tonsil hockey with.
"Alright but if you need to talk about it, I'm here for you man."
I didn't feel like talking so I just let myself zone out. After a while, I came to and realised that Edward was no longer beside me. Maria was gone but there were a lot more people in the main bar then when I arrived so I figured that a significant amount of time had passed since I arrived.
I pulled out my mobile. Four missed calls from Alice.
"Fuck!"
I grabbed my drink and made my way towards the Private Lounge. The room was packed with a lot of people that I didn't know and I'm sure a few of them didn't actually know me or Rose either.
I scanned the room for any signs of Alice and spotted her spiky hair first on the opposite side of the room she was facing my direction but her attention was on a girl in a dark blue mini dress with wavy brown hair. I couldn't really make much of the other girl's profile but by the look on Alice's face I could tell she was worried about her.
I pushed my way through the crowd and as I got closer I noticed the mammoth 4 tiered Black Forest cake on a small table not far from where the girls stood. Wow, Alice went to town on the cake, it looked delicious. I pushed the thoughts of cake from my head and turned back to the little exchange between Alice and her friend.
I could see the girl was unsteady on her feet which could explain the look of concern on Alice's face. I went to move closer but stopped when I saw the girl quickly step back from Alice but her hastiness caused her to lose balance and trip over her other foot.
"Shit, watch out." I yelled helplessly as I watched her fall backwards into Rosalie's birthday cake.
My cry had caught Alice's attention and she was gesturing madly at me. Pushing my way through the last group of people who had crowded around the girl on the ground, I looked at Alice whose eyes were wide with panic and with a trace of, was that pity? She turned to me and silently pleaded with me to help her. I nodded and bent down to lift the poor girl from the ground. When I had the girl in my arms, I chanced a look at her face and exhaled sharply when I realised that it was my Angel. She was gazing intently at me a flash of recognition passed in her eyes before they fluttered close and her body went limp.
Tell me what you think? Yay or nay? Bella's POV next
