From Little Things
Disclaimer: I don't own Twilight. All recognisable characters, content or locations belong to their respective owners. No copyright infringement intended.
4. Birthdays Are for Presents
Brady's Point of View
Brady will freely admit that he's really glad Bella's actually his age. She's in the grade below him because she's born in September to his April, but regardless, the fact that she's turning thirteen today pleases him. The imprint makes sure he's whatever Bella wants from him but that doesn't change the fact that he's a teenaged boy with teenaged hormones. So far, all they've been telling him is that here's the really pretty girl you're going to spend the rest of your life with - should get started now.
Bad idea, but so long as he doesn't act on those instincts until they're both a little bit older, all should be well. His thirteen year old mind is eager to be and do more, but his wolf is patient. It's quite the mindfuck, if he does say so himself. Thirteen year old hormones plus an adolescent wolf plus a mate that's just too pretty and Brady's head is on a constant loop, trying to sort out everything. It's a wonder his pack hasn't punched him in the face, the whirlwind his mind has become.
He rocks up at Sam and Emily's around ten. He's just eaten at home, though he's already feeling the familiar grumblings of hunger, but unlike the wolves already there, he doesn't dive straight into the food. Instead, he makes a beeline for his imprint, seated with Kim on the sofa, watching muted reruns of Family Guy. He engulfs Bella in a bear hug, lifts her off the seat and twirls her around, exulting in the amused laughter from the girl before he settles her back in her seat and gives her a smile.
"Happy Birthday, Bella." He offers her the present he made. It's not much, though he's pretty sure she'll like it. . He hopes so anyway and he tells her that much.
The gift is a chord of braided leather, from which hangs a wood-carved paw print. More charms may be added to it, but for now, he thinks the solitary charm is enough.
Bella's face lights up with a beatific smile and she engulfs him in a hug, all lanky limbs and the sweet smell of strawberries. Brady can feel her developing curves and he swallows hard, unsure of what to think of that. It's just another thing to consider later. But rather than dwell on it, he returns his focus to what Bella's saying. He knows as she thanks him profusely that he's done good and he smiles, pleased that he's made her happy on her special day.