Chapter 4
The tournament lasted well into the morning and resulted in Allie being the winner. Josh, Seth, and Emmett voted to ban her from future tournaments since her abilities made her a ringer. After the tournament, the house was quiet as the pack, Seth, Kaya, Nahuel, Renesmee, Charlie, Sue, Sam, Emily, Leah, and Jacob got some sleep. Josh stayed up a bit longer to spend time with Natalie, but she talked him into getting some sleep since they were going hunting that evening. Everyone but Charlie, Sue, Emily, and Sam were going to Alaska to hunt and play Josh's favorite games that night. Natalie stealthily left Josh's room and headed outside onto the back porch of Zach and Allie's cottage. She smiled sheepishly when she saw Zach and Allie kissing passionately while sitting on a bench overlooking the ocean. She turned to leave, but they already spotted her.
"Sorry, I didn't know you two were out here. I have been a bit distracted. I will go find another piece of island to relax on."
"No, you stay. I am going to help my grandma clean up the house anyways. You two talk," suggested Zach. He kissed Allie one more time before heading toward the house. Allie waved Natalie over.
"I am glad you are here. Let's talk. I hear you freaked out last night," said Allie as Natalie sat down beside her.
"Josh's mom doesn't like me very much."
"She will get over it. You can't worry about her though. You need to focus on you and Josh. The two of you have enough to figure out."
"But I don't want to come between him and his mother. I told you that we didn't have anything in common and I was right."
"We all had to overcome something to be with our mate, Nat. Zach had to deal with my dad and Drew trying to start a war between our families. I had to deal with being a human and trying to understand the supernatural world. You and Josh will get through this, so please stop trying to leave every time something doesn't go the way you want."
"Running is second nature to me, but you are right. I never want to hurt Josh and I know if I would have left, I would have hurt him and during his birthday celebration no less. I love him so much sometimes it scares me. We just met and yet I know I would do anything to make him happy. That is very overwhelming for someone like me."
"Trust me it is overwhelming for a lot of us. Before Zach, I wasn't looking for love. I was focused on becoming a doctor, but something felt very empty about it all to me. I didn't realize what it was until I met him, but I was still scared. It didn't stop me from being with him, but I had my doubts and questions along the way."
"I don't know how I am going to deal with his mom. I don't like being interrogated."
"You should talk with Josh about it. He needs to know."
"It is just going to cause more issues."
"Let him be the judge of that."
"Fine, but after the party. I came here to celebrate with him, not cause drama. I can ignore his mom for the next couple of days and then if it is still an issue, I will tell him about it."
"As long as you stay," said Allie and Natalie nodded in agreement.
Bella watched with a serene smile as her husband played his baby grand piano in their cottage. The music always brought her peace and she rested her shoulder on his head as he continued to expertly tickle the keys. He abruptly stopped as Alice and Jasper entered the cottage.
"I told you! No one ever listens to me, but I told you," exclaimed Alice and Edward frowned in confusion.
"No you didn't. You had no clue that would happen. You just didn't want to do anything about it because it would disrupt you and your precious invitations," argued Edward.
"What is it now," asked Bella and Jasper shook his head in disbelief.
"The ex hasn't learned her lesson yet. She is going to return," revealed Jasper.
"What, why," asked Bella.
"I'm not sure. She isn't even sure. She is obsessed with this notion of making amends with Josh for some reason, but her true intentions aren't clear even to her. She isn't sure if she wants to win him back or not," explained Alice.
"He has a mate. Doesn't she realize that," questioned Bella.
"No because she doesn't think a wolf can have a mate bond like a vampire does. Most vampires don't understand how the Quileutes work. I still don't completely understand imprinting and I have seen it. Even though Josh says he has a mate now, Callista thinks he is misinformed about what that means because he is friends with vampires. She thinks he has a girlfriend or companion and since he was so adamant about being with her a month ago, she doesn't respect that bond," explained Alice.
"Then let her learn the hard way," suggested Bella, which made Alice giggle.
"Bella," said Edward in shock and Bella shrugged.
"Look, we tried to run interference but this woman sounds stubborn. When is she coming back? It better not ruin Josh's party," said Bella.
"It will be after we return from Alaska. She hasn't decided what she wants to do though, which is quite frustrating. She doesn't respect the mate bond, but I am not sure she truly wants to be with Josh either. Telling him right now would only make it worse though. It would ruin his fun tonight and he already has a lot to deal with. Leah is not helping matters between him and Natalie," informed Alice.
"Well darlin', like I always say, when it comes to mates, the less interference the better. Sometimes you got to let them work it out," advised Jasper and Alice threw her hands up in exasperation.
"Which is what I wanted to do before Edward became the morality police and made me interfere!"
"I didn't want you to use the wedding as an excuse not to do what is best," defended Edward.
"I am done talking about this! We need to get ready to leave for Alaska. There is just no pleasing you, Edward Cullen," grumbled Alice and Edward chuckled at her thoughts as she marched out of the cottage.
Josh rolled his eyes as he zipped up his duffle bag and carried it out of the cottage with his uncle right behind him.
"Thanks for the advice, Uncle Seth, but I can handle this."
"You need to tell Natalie about Callista," warned Seth.
"There is nothing else to say. I already told her about my relationship and the last thing I want to do is make Nat panic. She is a flight risk as it is," said Josh as he and Seth headed toward the main house in his truck.
"She is your mate and you need to tell her that Callista came to see you last night."
"Why, so she can freak out and make an excuse to run? Thanks, but no thanks."
"Mates are supposed to tell each other everything…."
"Like she is telling me what is going on with her? I know that you three weren't just talking for fun last night. I am not stupid. Since she wants to act like everything is fine and you aren't chiming in, I think it is best to leave it all alone."
"That was different. This has to do with another woman and…."
"I know you are just trying to help and I appreciate that, but all I want to do is enjoy some fun in Alaska with my mate. It is my birthday. I think I deserve to celebrate," defended Josh and Seth sighed, but nodded.
"Okay," conceded Seth as they parked in front of the house where everyone was gathering. Josh smiled at Natalie and jogged over to where she was talking with Renesmee and Nahuel. She giggled when he kissed her neck in greeting.
"Someone is in a good mood," she teased and he happily nodded.
"You are going to love Alaska, Nat. There is so much to do. I can't wait to play baseball!" She wrapped her arms around him and kissed him sweetly.
"Well I have a surprise for you when we get there. Consider it another birthday present."
"Oh really, now I am intrigued. Tell me, what is it, please tell me," he said as he pushed out his bottom lip in a pout and she laughed. He tenderly kissed her and Leah rolled her eyes as she watched them from the porch. She flinched when her mother nudged her.
"Be nice," warned Sue and Leah crossed her arms, but said nothing. Allie ran onto the porch and hugged her parents.
"Are you two going to be okay here alone," asked Allie and Sam gave her a reassuring grin.
"We are going to stay behind with Charlie and Sue. We are both tired from staying up all night. You kids take your video game tournaments very seriously," teased Sam.
"They are serious business," quipped Allie as Emily hugged her again.
"We are going to have a nice, quiet dinner and maybe sit out back by the fire pit. That is about as much excitement as I want for the night. Go have fun," encouraged Emily.
"Okay, call if you need anything. I love you," said Allie as they waved goodbye to her. She stood beside Zach as everyone gathered on the front lawn. The pack excitedly grabbed their bags and Connell began counting the group.
"I think this is the most I have ever teleported at once. This family grows at the rate of rabbits," teased Connell and Alice smiled slyly at him.
"If it is too much for you, I am sure we can take the jet and….."
"All heading to Alaska, come in close," he announced as Alice laughed. Allie waved goodbye to her parents and was on an expanse of land surrounded by mountains a second later. Carlisle smiled at Connell as he looked around.
"This is Merektown. I believe that is the name he settled on for the territory," said Carlisle and Connell chuckled.
"After talking with the Denalis, we figured it would be best to head north since tourism can be a problem this time of year in some parts of Alaska. It is a cold, stormy day up here, perfect for baseball and the grizzly are out if anyone needs a good hunt. We can go someplace else if you prefer," explained Connell.
"No, I think Merek would be amused that we chose this place to play. There aren't many humans north of Anaktuvuk Pass no matter what time of year it is. This is perfect, Connell," assured Carlisle as he clapped Connell on the back.
"We thought so too," agreed Tanya.
"So what's first," asked Benjamin and Carlisle pointed at Josh.
"That's up to the birthday boy. What will it be, Josh? Baseball, a run through Brooks Range, you name it," said Carlisle and Josh smiled mischievously.
"How about a run to warm up and then some baseball since the storm is coming in," suggested Josh and Zach pumped his fist.
"Let's do it," bellowed Zach. Josh was about to follow the pack into the brush to phase, but Natalie stopped him.
"Time for your surprise," she informed and he rubbed his hands together in anticipation.
"I'm ready," he said excitedly and she kissed him before closing her eyes. She morphed into a hulking, black and white wolf and his jaw dropped.
"Whoa," he laughed and Drew let out a low whistle.
"Dude, your imprint is pretty awesome. I wish Lexie could do that," chuckled Drew and Josh smiled proudly.
"She is definitely amazing. This is great, Nat. Thank you, I love it," he said as he pet her fur. She morphed back into her original form and giggled.
"I am glad you like it."
"You know the only thing that would make it better is if you were naked when you turned back," he teased and she playfully nudged him.
"Josh," she giggled and he winked at her.
"Wait, why don't you have to worry about your clothes," asked Zach and she shrugged.
"I never have," she replied and Eleazar slowly nodded.
"It makes sense. You are a chameleon. You make your entire essence morph to blend in. That means you attach your clothes in the process and alter their appearance as well. You are quite impressive, Natalie," informed Eleazar.
"Shall we run," asked Natalie and she bit her lip with a smile as Josh peeled his shirt off. He tossed it at her and nodded.
"Definitely, I'll be right back," he called as he jogged into the brush. Allie wrapped an arm around Natalie.
"I'm sure you wouldn't have minded him finishing that little strip tease," whispered Allie and Natalie nudged her, but laughed. Josh ran over to her in wolf form and she morphed back into a wolf to run beside him. The rest of the pack took off as well and everyone followed them to the mountain to run and hunt.
After a couple of hours of running through the mountains, Josh was ready to play baseball. The stormy weather in the distance brought an overcast sky to the region and everyone grabbed equipment to set up the field. Josh changed into a pair of shorts and a baseball jersey before jogging over to his mother.
"I need to talk to you," he said and abruptly pulled her away from the rest of the group. Jacob glanced over at Rosalie and sighed, sensing the tension in the air. Leah frowned in confusion as her son led her toward the mountains and away from the others. He sat down on a massive boulder and crossed his arms.
"What is your problem with Natalie?"
"Josh, this isn't the time to…."
"No mom, I heard your thoughts when we were running. You interrogated her," accused Josh.
"Watch your tone, young man! I asked valid questions," shouted Leah.
"Mom, she is my mate. Our plans, our future is up to us, not you. I know that you are worried about it, but you don't have to be. I love Natalie and she loves me so…."
"Josh, you don't even know her. You love her? Based on what, because the gene that makes you a wolf tells you so? I am not saying that you don't have something with her, but you two are moving so fast."
"I cannot believe you are doing this! You should be happy for me. I thought you were happy for me, but I guess that was a lie that I wanted to believe. You hate Natalie and all she has done is try to be respectful to you. Do you know how intimidating it must be for her to come here and be around this huge group of people after being alone for so long? She is out of her comfort zone, but she is doing it because she loves me and I am not going to let you ruin that."
"You don't even know her!"
"I know that I love her!"
"You know that because the imprinting tells you to, but face it Josh, all you know about this woman is that she is a criminal! I want what is best for you and I just want to make sure that she is it before you tie your entire existence to her," shouted Leah and Josh stood up.
"Thanks for the support," said Josh as he stormed off. Leah ran a hand through her hair and gritted her teeth in frustration. She sighed when Jacob walked over to her with his arms crossed.
"Jake…."
"I asked you not to ruin his birthday for him, but you did anyways, Leah."
"He pulled me aside and decided to have this conversation now, not the other way around. Besides, it will be fine. I will stay on the sidelines during the game so he can have his fun."
"The funny thing about a mountain range is that your voice carries. She heard everything, Leah. We all did," informed Jacob and she sat down as the words sunk in. Jacob walked away and she sighed when Seth approached her.
"Don't give me that look, little brother. I didn't mean for her to hear us, alright? If you want to blame anyone, blame your nephew," defended Leah.
"Oh, so I should blame the eighteen year old for his mother acting immaturely, good to know."
"Hey, screw you, Seth! I don't have to explain myself to my little brother. You don't even have a kid, so don't act for a second like you know what it means to be a parent!" Seth smirked.
"Yea, you're doing a great job at the moment, Leah." She grabbed his arm tightly as she began to shake.
"You're my little brother and I love you, but you are crossing a line right now. Back off," she warned and he jerked away from her as she tried to calm her breathing. Rosalie and Kaya were by his side in an instant and Rosalie gave a small smile.
"Go, I got it," she urged, but he shook his head.
"She isn't in control right now. She might phase," he said as he looked over his sister with concern evident in his eyes.
"Don't worry. I can handle it," assured Rosalie and Seth slowly nodded as he walked away with Kaya.
"That escalated quickly," said Rosalie as she sat down beside Leah.
"Shut up, Rose. I am not in the mood to be patronized. This doesn't even concern you," growled Leah.
"The moment you put your hands on Seth, it concerned me."
"He is my brother."
"He is my son."
"Not really," growled Leah, but she frowned when Rosalie's tinkling laughter echoed around them.
"Aw, is that the best you can do? Let me explain how this will go. You will up the ante, trying to say anything to hurt me so I will leave. I won't. You will phase and try to lash out at me. Then, you'll feel guilty, run off, and everyone's night will be ruined."
"You think you know everything, don't you?"
"No, but I know you because we are a lot alike. When we get mad, we lash out and try to hurt the people closest to us because we don't think we deserve their support. Well, guess what, I am going to be here anyway, so deal with it."
"Why do you even care?"
"Now I know you are caught up in your irrational wolfy gene feelings if you have to ask me that." Leah rolled her eyes, but was silent.
"You are really going to make me say it, aren't you? Fine, Leah, I care because you are my best friend. I care because I love you and your son and you are my family. I care because I know what it feels like to go off the deep end and I am not going to let you do that just like I hope you wouldn't let me," explained Rosalie and Leah let out a shaky breath as she began to calm down. Her posture relaxed and she unclenched her fists.
"Feel better," asked Rosalie and Leah slowly nodded.
"Yea, even though I just ruined my son's birthday." Rosalie scoffed.
"He is fine. I mean sure, he is consoling his mate as we speak, but he has had a birthday dinner, an all-night video game tournament, a trip to Alaska, and still has a birthday party to attend tomorrow night. I think he will be fine." Leah giggled.
"He really is happy and loved isn't he?"
"I've been trying to tell you that. You know, if you would just listen to me, 99% of your problems would be solved."
"What about the other 1%?"
"Hey, I can't help that you married Jake, so…." Rosalie laughed as Leah nudged her.
"Leave my husband alone. He is amazing. Crap, now I owe him an apology too. I am really bad at the whole apologizing thing."
"That is always the worst part, isn't it?" They both nodded in agreement and smiled. Leah hugged Rosalie.
"Thanks for being your annoying self," whispered Leah and Rosalie shrugged.
"Well someone has to do it," teased Rosalie.
"I don't even know where to start with making this right. I really screwed up."
"It isn't that bad," assured Rosalie.
"Where is Josh? I don't sense him and I really don't feel like phasing at the moment."
"He went after his mate after you shattered her sense of confidence in their relationship." Leah put her face in her hands and Rosalie tried not to giggle.
"I am joking….somewhat. On the bright side…."
"Rose, there is no bright side to this."
"Sure there is. He is a teenager and all about teenage rebellion. Your disapproval in his mate will most likely bring them even closer together. I'm sure they are ready to elope as we speak," teased Rosalie.
"I hate you," muttered Leah and shook her head at her friend's sense of humor as Rosalie laughed.
Josh sighed when he finally caught up to the mountainside where Natalie was looking out at the view. He dusted off his shorts and sat down on the cliff. She sat down beside him and rested her head on his shoulder.
"You let me catch you," he said in surprise and she slowly nodded.
"My first instinct was to run, but the moment I thought about losing you, I stopped. It scares me to even think about us not being together," confessed Natalie.
"I was going to phase, but I saw you stop up here and figured I could just climb instead ruin my outfit. I didn't want to startle you with my nakedness." She smirked.
"I think you have the wrong idea about my response to your nakedness."
"Good to know," he said with a smile and she sighed as their fingers intertwined.
"Josh, we can sit up here and flirt all night but it doesn't change that your mother hates me."
"She doesn't hate you. She is scared of you, of what you can make me do. I understand that because I was scared too. The irony is that she is the one that talked me out of that fear."
"Why were you scared?"
"I love you enough to do anything for you and that is scary. It would suck, but I would give up the future cottage on the island and my home in La Push. I don't want to, but…."
"I would never ask you to give up your family for me. They are important to you and I don't have to be your imprint to see that. I love you, Josh. I am in love with you and I want this to work." He sighed in relief and grinned from ear to ear.
"Then it will work," he assured before capturing her lips in a tender kiss. She happily kissed him back and smiled as he leaned his forehead against hers.
"We will deal with my mom later, but how about we go play some baseball?" She nodded and kissed him again before following him down the mountain to their makeshift baseball field.
After hours of baseball, Josh was satisfied, especially after his team won. Connell returned him, Zach, Allie, Natalie, and the pack to the island while the rest of the family finished the trip with a hunt. Leah kept her distance from her son, knowing that he needed time to cool down before they spoke again, which he was relieved by. He kissed Natalie and pulled her toward the main house.
"Come play a new video game with us. Gavin just uploaded it to the console for my birthday," said Josh, but Natalie shook her head.
"Go have fun with Zach and the rest of your friends. I want to shower and clear my head a bit."
"Are you sure? I don't want to leave you alone."
"Yes, I am sure. I have been surrounded by people and very strong personalities. I could use a moment to myself to decompress. I promise I will come watch you in a bit," assured Natalie, but Josh was still hesitant. Allie smiled comfortingly at him.
"I will go with her and let you boys practice before you are faced with my skills," said Allie and Josh smirked.
"I'm going to beat you, Al."
"Aw, did you want that to be your birthday present," taunted Allie and Zach shook his head with a smile.
"Alright you two, save the taunting for the game, we will see you soon," said Zach before kissing his mate. Allie kissed him once more before following Natalie toward the cottage.
"I hope you don't mind me tagging along, but I knew Josh wouldn't want you to be alone. He would have gone with you if I didn't."
"I don't mind. I actually like that you decided to come with me. Thanks for being so nice to me, Allie."
"I am always nice to my friends, especially when they are stressed. You okay?"
"I will be. Leah isn't the first person to hate me."
"She doesn't hate you."
"Hate, fear, it all results in the same thing," grumbled Natalie. Allie smiled sympathetically as they were about to enter the cottage.
"Come on, you can shower and then we'll hang out for a bit so….." Natalie stopped her and crouched down defensively.
"Someone is here," whispered Natalie.
"In the cottage?"
"In the vicinity, I am very good at sensing vampires. It is how I stayed ahead of Aro for so long," explained Natalie and Allie closed her eyes for a moment as a scent filled her nose.
"Callista," questioned Allie and Natalie gritted her teeth.
"As in Josh's ex-girlfriend, Callista," asked Natalie and the woman's giggle echoed around them as she hopped out of a tree.
"The one and only, so where is Josh? We need to talk," said Callista as Natalie looked the woman up and down. Her Greek heritage was evident in her olive skin and dark hair. She looked to be in her late twenties, but Natalie could sense that she was older.
"You aren't going anywhere near Josh, so how about you leave before I make you," warned Natalie and Callista smiled mischievously.
"Well, after I speak with Josh again, we will let him decide if he wants me to leave," taunted Callista.
"Oh boy," groaned Allie as the two women began to circle each other.
"You don't know who you are messing with. I am his mate and you are out of line," said Natalie, which made Callista laugh.
"Funny, that's what he called me a few weeks ago. He told me yesterday he had a new mate when we met up, but he tends to change his mind easily," quipped Callista.
"Callista, why don't you just get out of here? You have already had your ass handed to you by his friend. I doubt you want the same thing to happen with his mate," threatened Allie.
"They aren't mates. Josh has just been around vampires too long. He thought we were mates too and maybe in his mind, we were after our passionate night together. I am here to talk to him, not you, so how about you run along and get him for me," suggested Callista. Natalie's fists clenched in anger and Allie shook her head with a smug smile.
"No one can say I didn't try to help you out this time," said Allie and Natalie looked over at her.
"Do you mind? Your mate has inspired me," asked Natalie and Allie smiled as she caught on.
"Do what you must," said Allie. Before Callista could question them, Natalie morphed into Zach's hulking form and charged the woman. She grabbed Callista by the throat and slammed her to the ground as she hissed at her. Allie cringed when Callista's head collided with the stone of the porch.
"Um, Natalie, killing her may be an issue and you just got out of trouble with the Volturi," reminded Allie. Connell suddenly appeared with Tia, Josh, Zach, Alice, Edward, Bella, Jasper, Jacob, Leah, Rosalie, and Emmett.
"I have had a really bad day. I am sick and tired of people questioning my connection to my mate. You will leave him alone. You will not make a move or I swear that I will rip you in two, understand," hissed Natalie and Callista gave a nod as the back of her head pressed deeper into the stone.
"Nat, stop, you are going to kill her," said Josh as he jogged over to them. Natalie morphed back into her smaller form and stepped back from Callista. Josh reached out to her, but Natalie shook her head.
"She was here yesterday," she asked and Josh sighed.
"Yes, but…."
"You should have told me," she said before storming into the cottage and Josh gritted his teeth in anger.
"Callista, what the hell are you doing here? I told you to leave me and my mate alone," yelled Josh as Callista made it to her feet. She rubbed the back of her neck and checked to make sure it was still in place.
"Before I was attacked by you maniacs, I came to apologize and give you this letter explaining my actions!" Allie raised her hand.
"In my defense, I didn't try to kill her this time," said Allie and Zach shook his head in amusement at his mate.
"Callista, just leave before you cause any more trouble," suggested Josh.
"I'm causing trouble? Since I have met you, I have been attacked twice! To think, I actually came to apologize and beg for your forgiveness for treating you so poorly. I am trying to be a better person Josh and that starts by making amends. Believe it or not, I did like you!"
"I told you I found my mate. You shouldn't have provoked her if you didn't want problems."
"You called me your mate the night we made love. Then too, maybe you weren't the victim that you made yourself out to be. I can't believe I actually felt bad for you. I guess we played each other. Have a good life, Josh," said Callista as she tossed a letter at his feet and darted toward the docks. He bent down and picked up the envelope with his name neatly scribed on it. He sighed and went inside to speak with Natalie, leaving the rest of the group stunned.
"Two women fighting over him, I am impressed. Josh has some skills," laughed Emmett and Jacob grinned.
"He gets it from me," boasted Jacob.
"Um, actually, if he got it from you, they would both be choosing other vampires or hybrids right now," teased Emmett and Jacob rolled his eyes.
"I'm glad you two are amused, but this is serious. How did Callista even get here without any of us knowing," questioned Leah as Rosalie eyed her siblings suspiciously.
"She couldn't have. Care to explain yourselves, Alice, Edward, Bella, and Jasper," interrogated Rosalie and Bella laughed nervously.
"Okay this meddling stuff is only funny when Rose isn't looking at me like that. Edward, Alice, a little help," asked Bella as Jasper sent waves of serenity to Rosalie. Edward pinched the bridge of his nose as he read Alice's thoughts.
"This is all Edward's fault! All I wanted to do was finish my invitations…."
"And ignore your visions, which would have gotten Callista killed," argued Edward.
"We don't know that for sure," defended Alice.
"It was obviously a possibility," argued Edward.
"You know what else I saw? Wedding plans," exclaimed Alice and Leah frowned in confusion.
"Why didn't you tell us about this? If Natalie would have killed her, that would put her right back on the Volturi's radar," yelled Leah.
"It would have been fine. No one is breaking any rules and besides, they tend to side with mates in cases like this. The only time they didn't was when we talked them out of it with Tesla. By the way, Edward, I saw Esme killing Tesla during that whole fiasco, but did that come true either? No," defended Alice.
"That doesn't give you the right to withhold this information, put Josh's imprint in danger, and allow this woman onto the island," said Leah and Alice huffed.
"I can't talk to you when you are being this rational. Come on, Jazzy," said Alice as she grabbed her mate's hand and ran away. Leah looked at Rosalie in confusion and Rosalie shook her head.
"We'll deal with her later. She has been extra high-strung lately. I guess you two have that in common," teased Rosalie and Leah huffed.
"I didn't almost get someone killed. What is wrong with Callista anyways? You don't go after a mate or imprint," argued Leah.
"Says the woman that I had to stop from attacking Kaya," reminded Rosalie.
"I can't talk to you while you are being this rational. Come on, Jake," said Leah and Jacob snickered as he followed his mate toward the house. Connell let out a low whistle.
"You know, I don't need to be worried anymore. You Cullens could have a million stealth jets and still need me with all the drama that goes on around here," said Connell.
"Glad we could reassure you, Connell," giggled Bella.
"Okay, well, Josh never gets to tease me again about ex-girlfriends. Come on, nayeli, let's go play video games while they figure out this mess," suggested Zach and Allie nodded in agreement. Everyone else shook their heads in disbelief and went their separate ways, leaving Josh and Natalie to deal with the situation on their own.
Josh sighed when he entered his room to see Natalie tearlessly sobbing. He had never seen her so broken before and an ache pulsed through his chest. He knelt down in front of her and kissed the tops of her hands.
"I am so sorry," he whispered.
"This is too hard, Josh. All of this is too hard."
"Callista is not in the picture. I didn't even know she was going to come here."
"You should have told me when you found out."
"I know, but I was scared of losing you. I was scared that you would freak out and run away. I am terrified of losing you, Natalie. I love you so much."
"She came back for you. She wants you."
"First off, it wouldn't matter even if that was true. Second, Callista and I were not a good combination. She used me and while I didn't want to admit it at the time, I used her too. I was searching for love, but also desperate for attention. I should have listened to Zach and my parents about rushing into things, but I didn't. I don't have many regrets in my life, but that is one of them. I regret losing my virginity to her and not waiting for you because I didn't have the patience. Callista and I aren't mates or even close. We did a number on each other and she came to apologize because I guess she has grown a conscience, but there is nothing more between us. It is in the past and she just wanted to give me a letter explaining her actions. Here, I want you to read it," he said as he handed the letter to her. She frowned in confusion.
"She gave this to you?"
"Yea, apparently that's why she was here."
"It is still sealed. Don't you want to read it first?"
"No because no matter what it says, everything is in the past. I am in love with you, no one else." She took in a deep breath and steadied herself as she opened the letter. She read over it and sighed.
"She feels guilty about what happened between you two. She says she doesn't like the person that she was and getting in trouble with the Volturi was a wake-up call for her. She also thinks you made her realize that. I think she feels really bad, Josh. I guess that explains why she would risk her life to come here. She thought you two had something because you were so adamant that you did."
"I was an idiot."
"It was a month ago. How much could have possibly changed since then? She is an attractive woman. I understand if…." He interrupted her with a tender kiss and she smiled as he caressed her cheek.
"You want to know what changed? You changed me, Natalie. My dad used to tell me about imprinting and I thought he was exaggerating, but it really is hard to explain if you have never felt it before. For vampires, mating is like love at first sight and it is like that, but my dad is right. All of a sudden, the earth shifts and gravity moves. The only thing that holds me to this world anymore is you and only you. It is profound and intense and there is no one else in the world that could ever make me feel this way but you. Callista and I never would have worked anyways, but she could never stand a chance against you."
"Promise," she asked with a smile and he nodded.
"I vow my life to you, Nat. I love you and I always will." She hugged him and he sighed in relief knowing that she felt the same way.
Esme and Carlisle smiled at Evan as he walked around the docks surveying the security measures installed on the dock and in the water below.
"This is a pretty cool system. How quickly did it alert you to the intruder," asked Evan.
"As soon as her boat was a mile out, an alert is sent to my watch. Once she was half a mile in, the cameras in the trees on shore followed her movements. Jasper enjoys giving us top of the line security. I received a ping last night but was told by Alice it was nothing. I guess we will have to talk to our daughter about what she considers nothing," informed Carlisle and Evan let out a low whistle as he looked at the sides of the docks.
"These bars can park the boats for you, right? I read about them in an engineering magazine my dad bought me. You know, if you expand the dock, you can make this side an area for the yachts and ferry. The other side can extend onto the shore and serve as a garage. You could build a lift and have two or three stories. You know, to store all of the cars at once. Or you could use it for storage," explained Evan.
"That is a great idea. You like designing things like that, don't you? I have seen your drawings in your folders," said Esme and Evan blushed.
"Yea, it is pretty cool. My mom isn't really into that stuff though. She calls it doodling. She thinks my time is better spent reading up on medical terminology to prep me for med school." Carlisle wrapped an arm around him.
"Esme has an impressive collection of architecture tool kits and a few drafting tables in the library. Maybe the two of you can exchange ideas sometime," suggested Carlisle and Evan's eyes lit up.
"Really, Esme, would that be okay? I understand if you don't want to share your drawings and stuff with….."
"I think that is a wonderful idea."
"Awesome! Thanks for showing me the system. I think this is really cool. I am always fascinated by the way the island is set up," admitted Evan and Esme smiled adoringly at him.
"It sounds like architecture and engineering are areas you should look into for that future you are so worried about," she teased and he blushed. Carlisle pulled them behind them when he saw Callista cursing under her breath and marching toward the docks. She slowed to a halt when she saw them and put up her hands defensively.
"I'm not here to hurt anyone. I would have left a couple of minutes ago, but I had to make sure my head wasn't damaged from the insane mate back there. I don't want any more trouble okay? I just want to get on my boat and leave," assured Callista and Carlisle sighed.
"I am sorry you ran into issues on the island. Are you alright? I can look over any injuries you sustained," he offered and she slowly nodded as she rubbed her neck.
"You are the doctor, right? I am fine. Thankfully vampires heal quickly. If I were human, my neck would have been snapped in half. I just want to get out of here, so if you will excuse me I will…." She gasped when she saw Evan and their eyes locked. She fell silent and Esme's eyed widened. Carlisle looked back and forth between Evan and Callista before shaking his head in disbelief.
"There has to be some sort of scientific rationale behind…."
"Carlisle," shushed Esme. Callista blinked several times and shook her head as she stepped onto the dock.
"Great, now my mind is slipping. Maybe I will take you up on that offer to check me out. Is it possible for a vampire to have a concussion? I think she gave me a concussion. I have to get out of here. This place is messing with my head," she mumbled to herself. She walked by them and Evan stepped forward.
"Wait," he called, but she shook her head.
"Look, I know where I am not welcomed. I should have taken the hint earlier, serves me right for trying to suddenly be noble. No one likes a do-gooder, no offense, Dr. Cullen. I have heard about your good deeds, but it all sounds like too much work for me. Now, if you will excuse me, I have a life to get back to," she said as she got onto the boat and started the engine. Evan watched her in silence as she steered away from the island and Esme sighed. She knew that look very well after so many years around wolves and braced herself for the issues that usually followed.
The island quieted down a few hours later once the pack was asleep and the gaming consoles were turned off for the night. Leah was sitting outside by the fire pit thinking about the events of the evening. Jacob smiled sympathetically at his wife and handed her a bottle of beer as he sat down beside her.
"Does this mean you aren't mad at me anymore," she asked and he kissed the top of her head.
"I was never mad, just disappointed it had to happen like that. After he first introduced Natalie to us and you seemed okay, I figured you were fine with it. What changed," asked Jacob as he held his wife in his arms.
"I don't know. I thought I was okay with it and it isn't about Natalie really. As awful as it sounds, it is about the imprinting. Jake, we both have seen how it can ruin lives."
"Our lives weren't ruined because of it. We found our way to each other."
"Yes, but there were still casualties for us, for Sam and Emily. There was heartbreak and confusion. I don't want that for Josh."
"Leah, he is happy. Natalie makes him happy and I truly believe he makes her happy too. There aren't any mates or significant others to worry about. Callista is as close as it gets."
"I am just worried and stressed that it will end badly."
"I know, but you can't sabotage it for the two of them either. That's not fair and they deserve to be happy. I might not know the whole story, but based on what Josh has told me, Natalie could use some good in her life. Let him be the good for her, Leah." She slowly nodded and he kissed her forehead.
"I love you. I am sorry about today," she whispered.
"I love you too and it's okay. If one of us doesn't freak out during an imprint, people may start to think we've gone soft. I'm going to get us some snacks. I am starving. Be right back." She sighed and took a sip of her drink as the backdoor opened again. She frowned in confusion when she heard someone approaching and turned to see Esme heading her way. Esme sat down beside her and gave a knowing smile.
"Feeling a little better," asked Esme.
"Yes, but still guilty. I shouldn't have snapped like that at Josh…."
"Or Seth," reminded Esme and Leah giggled.
"He is my brother. He is used to my tantrums. You and Rose just coddle him," she teased.
"That we do. So when are you going to apologize to Natalie?"
"Let me guess, you have some ideas about how to do that?"
"Just be straight forward with her, something you are very good at. I understand where you are coming from, Leah," confessed Esme, causing Leah to frown.
"You do?"
"Yes, I know what it is like to be worried for your child. I was worried when Rosalie found Emmett. After all that she had been through and what I had been through, trusting men was not easy. None of us had ever seen a vampire with his size or strength before. I was scared for her, but I knew that I had to let them figure out their relationship on their terms, even if I would be there in an instant if they needed me. The most trying relationship to cope with was Edward and Bella's though," confessed Esme and Leah guffawed.
"Really, but you were so sweet and supportive, ridiculously so? Even when we all thought Renesmee was killing her and no one knew what to do, you were supportive."
"I may not always show it as demonstratively as you do, but I worry about my children and grandchildren quite a bit. The key is to remember that they have to live their lives and make their own choices. When Bella first entered our lives, I was a mess. Edward left for Alaska and I did not feel very warm and loving toward her in those moments, but once he decided to be with her, that was it. I could see that he loved her and there was a great change in him, so I vowed to do everything I could to be supportive. It wasn't always easy though."
"At which point, him breaking up with her, going to Italy, having to fight in a newborn battle, having to figure out how to save her and the baby, or facing the Volturi," asked Leah.
"Should I rank them by intensity or duration," asked Esme as they both laughed.
"I guess compared to all of that, I have it quite easy, don't I?"
"Well I wasn't going to rub it in your face, but you are being a bit dramatic."
"Esme," laughed Leah and Esme shrugged.
"What, it is true. You are upset because your handsome, sweet son has found a woman that loves him and needs him in her life."
"What if she tries to take him away and I never see him again?"
"Do you really think any of us would let that happen? Let's be clear, mates are powerful, but so is family. I would have Alice meddle like she never meddled before," assured Esme and Leah hugged her.
"Thank you," said Leah.
"We are family, no thanks needed," said Esme as she stood up. She smiled at Jacob as he walked back outside and she left them alone. He wrapped his arm around Leah and she eyed him carefully.
"Did you put her up to that," she questioned.
"No, I planned on using my manly ways to calm you down," he said with a wink and she grinned.
"Well, I am still a bit high strung," she giggled and kissed him.
Esme strolled into the kitchen and sat down at the counter with Sue, who was sipping her hot tea with a smile.
"Thank you," said Sue and Esme smiled back.
"My pleasure, you know I think of Leah and Seth as family."
"I tried speaking with her, but parenting issues that overlap with the supernatural are a bit more difficult for me."
"That is understandable and you know you can always come to me. Us mothers have to stick together after all."
"And grandmothers," added Sue as they shared a knowing smile and giggled. They stood up and went their separate ways. Sue went to join Charlie upstairs and Esme went to spend some much needed alone time with Carlisle. The house was finally quiet for the night and while there was much left to do it was a nice break from the tension and drama of the day.