Chapter 4
Only a Matter of Time
The media surrounding our school and the "wolf" incident faded after a few weeks. Derrick's popularity faded as well. His credibility was scrutinized, especially after his public humiliation. His entourage of friends diminished, and he was now a loner. He tried to make amends with me and practically begged my forgiveness. I gave him a passing nod when he tried to get my attention. Jacob glared at him every time he tried to make eye contact with me, and Derrick would cower and look away.
Jacob continued with basketball and his team had won the last 3 games. He was like their star player, and I was proud of him. The coach even wanted him to be captain, but he turned it down to stay out of the limelight. I went to every one of his games and practices, because Jacob didn't want me out of his sight. Every game I took my sketchbook an continued to draw my comic strips. I would show them to Jacob every night at home. I called them "Teen Werewolf Adventures". We laughed over them.
My "vampire" powers were weakening daily. They were nearly non-existent. I could still hear, and project thoughts between my Dad and I. My speed and strength were human, and I was susceptible to illness and injury. I was a normal human girl, in almost every way. This is what I wanted after all. Jacob had to be more careful around me. We didn't wrestle anymore, and he couldn't hug me as tight. My parents still weren't attracted to my blood, which was strange. Jacob said it smelled like "apple pie". I never really thought about it that way. "Sugar and spice and everything nice." He would tell me.
I spent a lot of time after school watching Jacob practice. He had practice 5 days a week and games every Saturday. We usually spent quiet time together on Sundays watching movies or playing games. Jacob had finished his 4th game before the holidays, and would start back after the New Year. My family decided to make the trip to Forks for Christmas. Jacob and I had two weeks off for the holidays. Dad made reservations, and we were to arrive Christmas eve. I was excited and nervous about seeing my place of birth. Jacob was happy to be able to see his friends in LaPush, and whether he wanted to admit it, he was glad to be able to see Billy too.
We took the red-eye to Seattle, and arrived about 5 in the morning, Christmas Eve. Jacob and I slept most of the flight. Jacob and I snuggled under a blanket. We sat in first class, because there seemed to be less people in first class on a red-eye flight.
Carlisle and Esme picked us up from the airport. They drove an Escalade which they must have rented to accommodate all of us. We drove from Seattle to Forks which was an hour drive, normally, but vampires didn't heed speed limits, and we arrived in less than a half-hour. It was chilly and rainy in Forks. We pulled up to the obscure driveway of the Cullen family home. The trees and bushes beside the driveway were decorated with twinkling colored lights and red bows. As we came up the driveway, I noticed the house was lit with thousands of white and colored lights. A huge tree was in the front window of the house. I was amazed by the festivity of it all. We hadn't decorated our house in New Hampshire except for maybe a wreath on the door. The decorations here were enough for a dozen houses. Alice surely was behind all the extravagance. I felt like a little kid again, awed by the twinkling lights. Jacob was amused by my wonderment.
We carried our single suitcases into the house. Emmett, Rose, Alice and Jasper greeted us. I was still taking in all the decorations. Gold and silver bows, ribbons, and ornaments filled every nook and cranny of the house. The stair railing had pine garland intertwined with lights and gold ribbons. The fireplace mantle was decorated with glowing candles, gold and silver ornaments and ribbons draped on it. The elegant Christmas tree was decorated with gold filigree carved ornaments that represented the 12 days of Christmas. White lights were glowing from inside the tree. There was so much to take in. The air smelled like fresh gingerbread and pine.
"So what do you think?" Alice asked me, seeing my amazement. Her face was beaming.
"Wow. I just have to say, I have never seen such a wonderful sight, Alice. Did you do all this?"
"Well, Esme and Rose helped. Do you love it? I wanted your Christmas here to be memorable."
I hugged her. "Thanks." I hugged Esme and Rose as well. "You all did such a great job. So beautiful and shiny."
"Esme made gingerbread too. Come see." Alice announced.
I took Jacob by the hand and Alice led us into the dining room. It was like Hansel and Gretel. There was an elaborately decorated gingerbread house (or mansion) and plates of gingerbread men. The gingerbread house was decorated with sugar glass windows and elegant lacing of white icing. Jacob wasn't as impressed as I was.
"I just couldn't stop once I started. I kept finding new elements of candies to decorate with." Esme shyly explained.
"This is amazing, Esme." I told her.
"I hope it tastes as good. Everything is edible, even the house, if you want a nibble."
"I'm afraid to. It's too pretty. But I will have a cookie."
I grabbed a gingerbread man for Jacob and myself. It was like biting into a bit of heaven. The gingerbread was sweet and spicy, crunchy outside and chewy inside. Jacob and I both were enjoying them.
"I'm glad you both like them." Esme was pleased. "We invited Charlie over for Christmas Eve dinner. So he will be here around 5 this evening. Why doesn't everyone get settled in with your bags. Nessie, Alice has made up Edward's old room for you. Jacob can stay in the guest room down the hall from you. And Edward and Bella can stay in their old cottage on the back of the property. We made it nice and cozy for the two of them."
Jacob carried both our suitcases up the stairs. He stopped and put his in the guest room, then carried mine to Edward's old room. The room was like lavender and lace. There was a 4 post canopy bed decorated with white lace and linens. There were several vases of lavender and freesia on every flat surface. The perfume was heavy. The walls were stark white, and one wall had windows, ceiling to floor overlooking the woods on the back of the property.
"Well, this is nice, simple and elegant."
Jacob agreed, but the lavender seemed a little strong to Jacob. He was sniffling like he had to sneeze, and then he did. He started to have a sneezing fit, and had to leave. He was sneezing all the way down the hall to the room he was staying in. I decided to remove the lavender from the vases, and inconspicuously tossed them out the window, hoping Alice wouldn't find them and be too disappointed. I opened a few windows to air out the room, until the smell was nearly gone. I walked down the hall to Jacob's room. He was lying on the bed with his arm over his head. He heard me come in and moved his arm from his face. His face was red, and his eyes were bloodshot and watery. He was still sniffling.
"Are you okay?" I asked him concerned.
"I think I'm allergic to lavender." He talked nasally. I went to his side and sat. He scooted over to give me more room. I caressed the top of his head, brushing his hair back with my fingers. He wiped the water from his eyes.
"I think I'm feeling better now."
"So lavender is like wolfsbane to you?"
"What?"
"Wolfsbane is an herb to deter werewolves. So maybe lavender is your wolfsbane."
"Oh. I see. So now you are an expert on herbs? Maybe Alice is trying to keep me from attacking you in your sleep." He gave an ominous laugh, that made me giggle. He pulled me closer to him and started to nibble on my neck, playfully, and making growling noises. We then heard someone's throat clear, and we jerked upright on the bed. My father was standing in the doorway. Always good timing my Dad had.
"Jacob, your father, Billy called. He would like you to visit. The elders are holding a gathering at the town hall in LaPush. There will be lots of people you know there. He wants you to stop by."
"Oh, my Dad called here? Well, sure. Can Nessie come along? I'd like her to meet my friends and all." He asked my Dad.
"Yes, that's fine. Just be back before 6. Dinner will be ready then, and Charlie will be. He'll want to visit with you."
"Sure, sure. We'll be back by then. Thanks."
We both decided to freshen up from our flight. Jacob showered first. Then I got ready. I changed clothes in my room, and fixed my hair. I changed into an emerald green blouse, long black skirt and my suede black knee-high boots. I straightened my hair, which was a feat when I was non-human. I didn't realize how long my hair had gotten when I straightened it. It was down to my lower back. I styled my hair so it framed my face, put on a little make-up including green eye-liner to complement my "new" eye-color. When I was ready I went to check on Jacob. He opened his door, and his cologne wavered to my nose. He smelled so good, almost spicy and woodsy, more so than his natural scent. He was dressed up in black pants, gray dress shirt, and shiny black dress shoes. His hair was gelled and spiked sporadically. I gave him the "wolf" whistle this time. I had never seen him dressed up before.
"Thanks." He replied. "I don't know how Alice does it, finding clothes to fit me, but it works."
"You look great. And you smell great." I complemented him. Jacob looked me up and down.
"You do too. I like the straight hair, makes you look more sophisticated."
"Thanks." We paused looking each other over. "Well, I hope your friends will like me."
"They'll love you, trust me. How could they not?"
We headed down the stairs and all eyes were on us. Emmett whistled and the ladies of the room cooed.
"You both look very nice. Jacob you look even more handsome than when you were at my wedding." Mom complimented.
"Yeah, who said you can't put new duds on an old dog." Emmett teased, jabbing Jacob in the ribs. Jacob just smiled obligingly. My Dad approached Jacob and handed him a set of keys.
"Here, Jake. You may take Carlisle's Mercedes."
"Thanks." Jacob said to my Dad, and Carlisle.
We drove 15 minutes to LaPush and through the small town. The town hall was past the general store. There were several cars parked in front of the building. The main doors were open, and a few people were spilling outside. A few guys about Jacob's age were playfully pushing and shoving each other. Jacob smiled.
"There's Quil and Embry, two of my old friends."
I looked them over. They weren't as tall as Jacob, one was thinner and the other more stout. Jacob got out of the car first and opened my door for me. He took my hand and we walked together. Quil and Embry hooted and hollered when they saw Jacob approaching. They both gave him a bear hug, and the stouter boy picked Jacob off the ground as he hugged him. Jacob introduced me to them. I shyly went to shake their hands, but they gave me a gentle hug instead. The stout one turned out to be Embry, and the thinner one was Quil.
"Wow. Jake, she sure is pretty." Embry told him and elbowed him in the ribs. "Come on, let's go in."
They pushed us inside and the groups of people gathered around, turned to see us come through the door, and cheered. Jacob introduced me to so many people, I couldn't remember everyone's names. I did meet Sam, the once leader of Jacob's wolf pack. He was as tall as Jacob but more intense. I also met his fiancée Emily who was very sweet besides her deformity. He introduced me to others from the pack. Paul the funny one, Jared the serious one, brother and sister Seth and Leah, who I remembered from when I was a child, and the younger members Collin and Brady. Seth was happy-go-lucky and greeted me with a friendly hug. Leah was more standoffish and barely shook my hand, then proceeded to punch Jacob in the arm. Paul was with Jacob's sister Rachel. She was his soul mate. Jacob still hasn't fathomed that yet. Rachel looked a lot like Jacob, same white smile, with long black shiny hair and dark eyes. She was beautiful in an exotic way. Jacob finally came up to Sue Clearwater and Billy. Sue hugged us both. She complimented me. Jacob smiled at his father, and he smiled back. When he saw me he and looked into my eyes, then instantly lit up. He grabbed Jacob and hugged him tight, patting him on the shoulders. "Glad to see you son." He said quietly to Jacob. Jacob re-introduced me to Billy.
"Dad, you remember Nessie. She has grown a bit since you saw her last."
"I'd say. Well, you sure grew into a beautiful lady. You favor your mother, Bella, and I see a bit of Charlie in you. How old are you now?"
"Well, Dad, approximately 16. But I think she is done growing, maybe. At least we hope."
"Well, she is almost caught up to you, Jake. You are almost the same age. That is good." Billy seemed to understand.
Jacob and I mingled with the rest of his friends. We drank punch and ate a few cookies that were provided. The smaller children received presents from the elders of the group, which one dressed as Santa. Quil had Chloe, who was 5, and his soul mate. He was running around with her on his back like he was a "horsey". Chloe had a relationship like mine and Jacob's when I was younger. But Quil will have to wait almost a decade before his soul mate was of age. He was more like her guardian. I loved watching all the children playing, and made me think about when Jacob and I have children. I wondered if my dreams would come true about twins. Jacob noticed me watching the children and daydreaming.
"Hey, what'cha thinking about?" He asked. I snapped out of my daze.
"Oh, nothing really, just wondering what our children would be like." I thought he would be nervous about it, but he smiled widely.
"Probably like us." He said sarcastically.
"Oh, your funny. You can be a real smart aleck. You know that?"
He hugged me. I didn't realize the time, and we were having so much fun. We decided we had to leave, and said our "good-byes". Billy talked to us last.
"Jake, why don't you two come by the house tomorrow, after you finish with Nessie's family. Let's say late afternoon?"
"Sure Dad, we'll be glad to. Nessie's never seen my old house. Maybe I can take her down to First Beach, too. She'll love that."
"Great. I look forward to it." Billy hugged Jake, then me and gave me a peck on the cheek. "Merry Christmas, son." He finished.
"Merry Christmas, Dad." Jacob replied.
We drove back through LaPush, and through Forks. Jacob showed me around Forks. Jacob went past Charlie's house, and his patrol car was gone. He must have left already. I thought. Jacob went past my Mom and Dad's high school. He was reminiscing and showing me all the great spots in the small town of Forks.
We ended up back at the Cullen family home, just shy of 6 pm. Charlie's squad car was in front. We parked the Mercedes back into the garage. We sat in the car for a few minutes.
"Thanks for bringing me to meet everyone. I really felt like part of the family. Everyone is so nice."
"Did you see how happy my Dad looked?"|
"Yeah, that was great, Jake. Maybe he's warmed up."
Jacob thought for a minute, and then frowned. "I know why. Its because he noticed you changed."
"What do you mean?" Then I realized. "Oh."
"Yeah, oh, now you are more human. He saw that immediately, and now he's more comfortable around you. He's not warming up to you, he's warming up to your humanness!" Jacob was foaming at the mouth. "Unbelievable! He sees you being more human and suddenly he's okay with you! And before he didn't want to even be around you! What a hypocrite!" Jake started shaking. His fists were balled up and he was gritting his teeth, and squeezing his eyes shut. I quickly got out of the car, I knew what was coming.
"Jake, get out of the car!" I yelled at him, knowing if he phased in the car, it would be destroyed. He moved out of the car so fast, he was a blur. Jacob's body was trembling immensely. He leaped out the open garage door, and in a flash and a few shreds of clothes, he was all brown fur, teeth and claws. I had never actually seen him phase in front of me. It was an ominous sight. I was frightened and exhilarated at the same time. He gave me a glance and took off towards the woods. I didn't follow this time. I heard a howl from deep in the woods.
"That was kind of cutting it close, wasn't it?" I heard my Dad say from the side door of the garage. I was surprised to see him, but I'm sure everyone heard Jacob's ranting. Dad continued. "I'd hate to see the inside of Carlisle's car if he phased in it. Carlisle probably wouldn't be too mad if he trashed his Mercedes."
"Dad! Jake's upset, give him a break would you?"
"Okay, but he needs to have better control. He could have injured you this time. He cut it too close. He can't be blowing off because everyone doesn't think like we do. There are many kinds of prejudices in the world."
"I know, but his own father? You can't blame him for being a bit upset."
"It was careless. You could have gotten hurt. You aren't susceptible anymore."
"You're right, Edward." Jacob was back, wearing his shredded dress pants. I ran to him and hugged him. He pulled me away from him, and looked at me. "I should be more careful, Nessie. I'm sorry. I don't know what I'd do if I ever hurt you because of my stupid temper."
"Jake…" I started to say, but he put his finger to my lips to quiet me.
"No, Nessie. I need to control this. So, before we leave Forks after Christmas, I'm going to see the elders."
"What do you mean?"
"I don't want to talk about it right now." He looked down at his feet. I looked to my Dad, knowing he would tell me.
"He's going to see if the elders can release the wolf from him."
Jacob shot him a look. "Thanks a lot Edward!" Jacob glared at him. I looked back into Jacob's eyes.
"Jake, that's not true is it? You are wanting to be normal? You don't want to be a werewolf anymore? Can you do that?"
"I'm going to try. I can't risk hurting you anymore. Or anyone else for that matter. I can't control my anger. I have never wanted to kill a human before that Derrick attacked you. It was like he was a predator, and I was protecting what was mine. I can't go on like this. I may end up hurting the ones I love the most. Besides, there is no need for me to be a werewolf anymore. There isn't any vampire threat, not here, and not since the Volturi left us alone. I can be a normal human, like you." Jacob looked away again.
I couldn't believe what he was saying. He would give up his werewolf heritage for me? I thought.
Jacob walked away from me and went to go up to his room. I started to follow him, but my Dad stopped me.
"No. Let him go with his thoughts."
"I can't let him do this, Dad. I know it's not what he really wants. He won't be happy as a normal human."
"He may be. It wouldn't matter as long as he still had you. It doesn't change the way you feel about each other. Its like when your mother wanted to be a vampire, she was afraid I wouldn't feel the same about her, but I loved her even more. When there is a love so strong like your and Jakes or mine and your mothers, there is nothing that can falter it. Do you understand what I'm saying?"
"Yes. But I just want him to be happy. And I don't think he will be happy as a normal human."
"He may surprise you."
"I don't know. Maybe I need to talk to him more about it. But later. Charlie is here."
"Yes, and dinner is ready."
We walked into the house. Everyone gathered at the dining room table. It was beautifully decorated in green and gold. There was a large rib roast in the center surrounded by side dishes. Dad called Jacob for dinner. He came down, solemnly, wearing another pair of dress pants and a dark-blue pin-striped dress shirt. He sat down beside me, not looking at me directly, and kissed me on the forehead. He wouldn't make eye contact with me although dinner. He ate his dinner in silence. Everyone was chatting about different things. Emmett and Charlie were discussing the latest NBA basketball game. Jacob would listen in, not saying a word. When he finished dinner, he excused himself. I watched him walk back upstairs to his room.
"What's up with Jake? He hardly said two words to me." Charlie inquired. I looked at my plate.
"He's just having some issues with Billy." My Dad explained with out going into details.
"Is Billy giving him a hard time? I could talk to him?"
"Charlie, I'm sure they'll work it out." My Mom reassured him.
I barely touched my dinner, and excused myself as well. I had to talk to Jacob. I went to his room, and knocked on the door. He told me to come in. He was lying on his bed, listening to music. He still didn't look at me. "Hi." He said. I looked at him, trying to get his attention. He finally looked at me and took out his earphones.
"I know what you're going to say, Nessie, but I've made up my mind. I'm going to the elders after Christmas, and I'm going to beg them to change me. Maybe they'll have to do a ceremony or something. But this has gone on long enough. I can't risk getting mad and hurting you. Remember Emily, Sam's fiancée?"
"Yes, what about her?" I tried to remember her face and the scars. "Oh. What happened?"
"Sam phased to close to her. His anger was so fierce, he accidentally clawed her on her side from her face to her waist. It nearly killed her. Everyone said she was mauled by a bear, but when we all started to turn into werewolves, the true story came out. Sam's had to live with what he did to her, every time he looks at her. As beautiful and sweet as she is, he is reminded of the monster inside him."
"You think you're a monster Jake?" Jacob looked away. I took his face in my hands and knelt on the bed next to him. "You are not a monster, and whatever you decide, I will be there for you. No matter what. I love you for who and whatever you are, Jake." I pulled his face to my chest and held him. He hugged me around my waist.
"I'll think about it some more, but I won't make any promises." He told me.
He bent his head up to kiss me firmly on the lips. I laid on my side next to him on the bed. He continued to kiss me, his hand wandering under my blouse. I grabbed his hand and stopped kissing him.
"Jake, this is not the time for this. My family's downstairs, and you know Dad is listening to every thought in your head."
"Stupid, mind reading vampires." He muttered. "It's only a matter of time before we will be together, completely."
"We have time for that, Jake. We don't have to rush this. We have our whole lives."
"I know, but I can't help how I feel. You are my world, Nessie. It is inevitable. I know you feel the same. Don't you?"
"Of course. I want to make love with you, Jake, but I'm not ready. I'm a bit scared really. This romance is so new to me. I mean just a year ago, I was 5, and now I'm 16. My teen hormones are racing like you wouldn't believe, every time you kiss me and touch me, it drives me crazy. I don't quite understand it yet." He leaned into me and kissed me on the neck and talked to me between kisses.
"I know what you mean…about driving you crazy…you are so beautiful…and sexy…sometimes I can't help myself…ever since you grew into this magnificent body…I can't help but kiss and touch you…any chance I get."
His hot breath on my neck gave me goose bumps. My defenses were falling with every kiss on my neck. He continued kissing my neck, up to my jaw line, and to my lips. His body heat was making me uncomfortable. He must have been warm as well, because he stripped off his shirt. He unbuttoned a few buttons on my blouse, and continued to kiss down my neck and to my exposed chest. I caressed his hair. My breath was growing heavier. My whole body was tingling. He started to unbutton a few more buttons, but I stopped him. I quickly moved off his bed, and tried to compose myself. He started to get off the bed to come over, but I put my hand out to him to stop. I started to rebutton my blouse. I smoothed out my hair and sighed heavily. "Okay. We need to take a break. Please." I told him.
Jacob sat on the bed giving me longing looks. He licked his lips every once in a while, and grinning all the while. I leaned against the closed door trying to catch my breath. Jacob got up quickly and pressed against me, kissing me again. Then there was suddenly a soft knock on the door. Jacob paused.
"Great timing as always." He said grinning.
"Sorry to interrupt, guys, but Charlie is leaving. He wants to say good-bye." It was Alice. Great Dad sent Alice this time to break it up. I thought.
Jacob moved away from me. "We'll be right there Alice." I told her.
I straightened out my clothes and smoothed my hair. Jacob put his shirt back on and tucked it in. We exited his room and went downstairs holding hands. Charlie was putting on his coat in the foyer.
"Hey, kids. I have to take off. I will see you in the morning. I'll be the one with the Santa bag." He smiled at us. He gave me peck on the cheek, and half-hugged Jacob. "Have a good evening everyone, and Merry Christmas." Charlie left.
The evening went on casually. We gathered around the fireplace and talked or played games. It was getting late, and I was sleepy. I said good-night to everyone, and Jacob walked me back to my room. Jacob tried to persuade me to let him stay in my room for awhile, but I deterred him. He kissed me a gentle, longing good-night and we went our separate ways. I got ready for bed, and went right to sleep, exhausted from the days activities.
I dreamt of Jacob… He was visiting the elders to change him into a human. He tried to convince them and they did a ceremony, but they weren't able to change him. He came back to me, and something had made him angry. He phased too close to me, and accidentally attacked me. He tore through my shirt and I was looking in the mirror, seeing a scarred body that was inflicted on me. I traced the scars with my fingers that ran from my neck to my waist.
I woke up suddenly, gasping for air. It was nearly dawn, but still cloudy and rainy. It was Christmas day.
I went to get a shower and noticed Jacob wasn't in his room. He must have gotten up early. I showered, got dressed in a red blouse, black and white plaid mini-skirt, leggings, and black mary-jane shoes. I put my hair in a low ponytail and let bangs hang around my face. I put on a little make-up. I headed downstairs, and noticed my aunts, uncles and grandparents were gone. Only my father and mother were in the kitchen fixing a nice Christmas brunch. I came into the kitchen, grabbing a croissant and started to eat it. I looked around.
"So where's everyone?"
"Good morning, and Merry Christmas, Nessie." My mother said to me.
I corrected myself. "Oh, sorry. Good morning. Merry Christmas." I smiled and gave each my parents a peck on the cheek. "So where is everyone?"
"Well, Alice, Esme, and Rose are wrapping presents. Your uncles and Carlisle are hunting. Your aunts and Esme went hunting earlier." Dad acknowledged me.
"Oh. Where's Jake?" I inquired.
"He'll be back soon. He had some errands this morning. He left early."
I was worried. Was he going to the elders today?
"No. He's not." My Dad answered.
Oops, forgot to turn on the do not disturb sign.
Dad laughed.
"He said he'd be back before Charlie got here."
So cryptic. What's up with that?
"You'll see. Don't worry." He answered me again.
"I wish you guys wouldn't do that. I get so lost." My mother said.
Dad and I laughed.
An hour later Jacob returned, just in time for breakfast. Alice, Esme and Rose finished with their wrapping, and carried the piles of presents to place under the tree. Soon after that, Emmett, Jasper and Carlisle returned from their hunting trip. Then Charlie arrived carrying a red sack of gifts like he promised. I didn't get a chance to talk to Jacob. We immediately sat at the dining room table to eat brunch.
After breakfast, we went to the living room to open presents. I forgot to get mine, so I ran up to retrieve them from my suitcase. I couldn't wait for my family to see what I had given them. Esme and Rose gave Jake and me a joint gift. It was in a huge box. We sat on the couch next to each other and opened it. It was a quilt, and I knew it was the one they were working on. It was so beautiful in greens and browns, with cloth leaves in a pattern, and pictures in squares I didn't recognize.
"There is the Cullen family crest, and the Swan family crest. Also there is a wolf to represent the Quileute tribe. We also embroidered your names. I hope you like it." Esme said, and her and Rose were so proud. I almost cried. It was the most beautiful thing they could have given us.
"That is so nice, Esme, Rose. It is beautiful." Jacob thanked them.
"Beautiful." I hugged them both.
My parents gave me a small box, that I opened, which had a set of keys in it.
"When we get home, we are going to teach you to drive. So we bought you car. It's green, since that is your favorite color. It's a Volkswagen. I hope you'll like it."
I squealed, and gave them a hug. "Thanks, Mom and Dad."
Charlie got me some art supplies, paint, brushes and other accessories.
I gave everyone else their gifts. I had drawn a portrait of each of them and framed them. They all loved the pictures. Jacob's gift was my comic book of "Teen Werewolf Adventures", and I had it published into a real comic book. I found someone that would print it in a real comic book form. He loved it. My family thought it was creative, and laughed as they read the adventures.
Then Jacob gave me his gift. He took both my hands in his and turned to face me. He looked at my hands.
"Renesmee Carlie Cullen," Jacob started to say. "From the first day I set eyes on you and knew you were to be my soul mate. I was bound by the stars and earth to love you for the rest of my life. I never thought I would find my special someone, and as fate would have it, my best friend's daughter would be my one and only." He looked and smiled at my Mom. She looked like she was going to cry, as she took my father's hand.
"I want you to know, no matter what happens, I will always love you forever. Nothing and no one will change that." He got down on one knee in front of me, and pulled a small velvet box out of his pocket. Tears welled up in my eyes. I couldn't believe what he was doing. He opened the box for me to look at. The ring was white-gold etched with roses that surrounded a heart-shaped 1 carat diamond. It was so beautiful it nearly took my breath away. "Nessie, I offer this ring to you, in promise that we will be together forever, and in hopes that you will be my wife."
I bit my lip, looking in his eyes, and looking at the ring, then looking at him again. I nodded, and finally said, "Yes, of course!" I hugged him as tight as I could and kissed him firmly on the lips. There were cheers from around the room. Jacob placed the ring on my finger, kissed my hand. I grabbed him to kiss him again, on the lips. Tears were running down my cheeks. I looked around to see my families' faces. Emmett and Jasper patted Jacob on the back. Charlie shook Jacob's hand. We stood in front of my parents, and I showed my mother my ring. She took my hand, and patted it. Jacob spoke to my Dad. Dad glared at Jacob gritting his teeth.
"You knew it would only be a matter of time, Edward, but I was hoping to have your blessing, anyway." My Dad's defenses dropped as I looked at him. Please, Dad, don't ruin this for me. I projected to him.
"Jacob Black, let me tell you something. I never liked you when you tried to steal Bella away from me, and then when you imprinted on Renesmee, I almost took your head off. But somehow, I knew there was a reason for everything. You are an honorable guy, and you are a good friend. You have always been there, faithfully, protecting what you felt you needed to. We're all grateful to have you in our lives, and now you are like one of the family. You might as well make it official. But let's not rush things. I'm not ready to be a grandfather yet." Dad chuckled. Jacob smiled at him. Dad shook his hand and then gave him a hug. "Welcome to the family."
"Thanks Edward."
Dad and Mom gave me a kiss. Mom gave Jacob a hug and kiss on the cheek.
"Congratulations!" My Mom said.
All my family lined up to give hugs of congratulations.
Later that afternoon, Jacob and I decided to still see Billy, although he was not sure of his intentions. We drove Carlisle's Mercedes over to LaPush and drove up to Jacob's family home. It was a small modest home, no frills. Jacob gritted his teeth and held back his emotions before entering the house. He knocked once, and then we entered. Billy was sitting in the living room when we entered. He smiled widely. He carefully got up off the couch to hug us. Jacob barely hugged his father. Billy sensed the tension.
"Is there something bothering you, Jake." He asked.
"No, Dad. Just jet-lag maybe." He didn't want to make waves on Chistmas.
Billy sat back down. We sat opposite him in the chairs. He noticed something else. Billy took my hand.
"Well, look at this! You popped the questions, boy? That's great!" I blushed.
"Yes, this morning."
"Well, you might have mentioned it to me. What were you going to wait until your wedding day?"
"No, Dad, I just didn't get around to it, yet. Not really that it would matter to you anyway."
Uh, Oh, here we go. I thought. I got up quickly and tried to change the subject.
"So, what did you do last night after we left?" I asked.
"Oh. Sue and I went back to her place, and she made dinner for all of us. We played some rummy after that. She beat me 3 out of 4 games."
"That sounds like fun." Small talk, wasn't working, I could see Jacob's wheels turning.
"So did you kids have a nice Christmas with the Cullens? They do celebrate, don't they?"
"Yes, actually. Charlie came over this morning. I got a car from my parents, but I haven't seen it yet, and my Aunt Rose and Esme made Jacob and I a quilt. It is so beautiful. And then Jacob pulled this out on me." I held up the ring.
"That's great. I'm happy for you kids." Billy congratulated us.
"Hmmph." Jacob reacted and crossed his arms across his chest pouting like a little kid.
"You got something to say, Jake?" Billy asked him.
"You're something else, Old Man." Jacob was fuming again. "How can you even look at yourself in the mirror, being such a hypocrite."
"Excuse me, boy. What are you saying?" Billy was getting angry.
"You know what I'm talking about. You were against me and Nessie when she was half-vampire. But when you saw her yesterday, noticing she was human, you're whole attitude changed."
"I don't know what you're talking about, Jake. I was glad to see both of you."
"You're a liar now too! Great!" Jacob got out of his chair and was pointing his finger at his father. I was getting scared for Billy. Surprisingly, Jacob was containing his anger."You know she has changed, just by looking in her eyes! I know you sensed it, Dad."
"Okay. I did notice she has changed. I can see that. But I'd be happy for you both, otherwise. I have been thinking since our arguement at Thanksgiving. And I talked to Sue about it. She told me we can't control fate. Just like Sam and Emily, Jared and Kim, and even Paul and your sister Rachel. For whatever reason you are to be with Nessie. I guess you can say I've been a foolish old man, Jake."
"Oh, come on, Dad! You expect me to believe that load of crap? Give me a break"
"Believe what you want, Jake, but I'm speaking the truth."
Jacob took my hand and pulled me up from my seat. "I think it's time to go, Nessie."
"Jake, don't leave. It's Christmas. Let's put all this aside for now, and enjoy the day."
"No, Dad. I need to go, before I explode into something I don't want to be."
"What do you mean? I thought you were in control?"
"No. I'm not. I nearly phased next to Nessie yesterday. I could have really hurt her. That is why I'm going to the elders tomorrow, and see if they can change me."
"What are you saying, Jake? You can't mean that?"
"I do. I don't want to be a werewolf anymore. I'm going to have it released from me. I have no need for it anymore. There is no threat to us, and we live obscure lives in New Hampshire. It's getting to be a nuisance."
"You know once you change, you can never go back, Jake. Once the wolf is gone from you, you will be mortal again."
"I know. But that is a chance I'm willing to take."
I was confused. I looked at Jacob, but he took my hand and led me out the door.
"Don't do this Jake! You'll regret it!" Billy yelled after us.
Jacob kept walking, and went past the car.
"Where are we going, Jake?" I asked him wondering why we were passing the car.
"I need to cool off, before we leave. I'm taking you to First Beach."
I nodded and walked with him. I kept going over in my mind, what Billy had said about Jacob becoming mortal. I knew what that meant. We arrived at First Beach a few minutes later, and it was deserted at this time of year. We sat on a large piece of driftwood that was bleached white. He held my hands in his. He breathed deeply, trying to quell the beast within. I caressed his hair. We didn't speak for a long while. He seemed calmer. He held me to him, and rested his head on my shoulder.
"Jake?"
"Hmm?"
"When Billy said you would be mortal, what did he mean?"
"I won't be a werewolf, anymore."
"I realize that, but what does that entail?"
"Let's not talk about that right now. Okay. Let's just enjoy this beach, and the silence. I want to just hold you."
I didn't argue with him. I held him for as long as he wanted. After what seemed like an hour, we walked along the beach, skipping stones, and holding hands. We didn't speak much, but Jacob still smiled at me all the while and stopped from our walk once in a while to kiss me. He held my face as he kissed me like it was his last kiss. When we walked back to the car. I looked back at the his home, and noticed Billy watching us from the window. I smiled at him, almost saying sorry with my eyes. Jacob didn't look back. We drove back to the Cullen home and parked in the garage. Charlie was still visiting. Jacob got out of the car immediately after we arrived. He didn't want to stay long enough for me to bring up the subject again. He went straight to his room. My family watched his movements and were curious. My father came up to me and gave me a hug. "I'm sorry your visit wasn't so pleasant." He said to me. "I don't think he realizes the ramifications of what he wants to do."
"What will happen to him, Dad?"
"He will be mortal. He will age, like any normal human. He will grow old, and eventually he will fade away. He will be susceptable to disease and injury, and won't have super-human strength or regeneration."
Mom came an hugged me. "You're scaring her, Edward."
"I am only telling her the truth. She needs to know. She may not age, but he will, when he is human. She must be aware of the future, no matter how cruel it is."
"You're being cruel, Edward!" Mom tried to shield me.
"I have to stop him, Dad. He can't go through with this."
"You may not be able to." Edward looked up toward the ceiling. "He's gone."
I moved from my mother's arms, shocked, with tears in my eyes. "What?! What do you mean?"
"He snuck out, and left. He's going to the elders now."
"NO! He can't!"
I grabbed my cell phone and tried calling Billy.
"What's going on, Edward?" Charlie asked.
"Jacob is going to the elders to have his wolf spirit removed. He wants to be mortal so he won't injure his loved ones. He wants to be normal."
"What's so bad about that?"
I looked at Charlie in disbelief. "You wouldn't understand, Charlie! He can't be normal! He is supposed to be a werewolf. He will be miserable. Don't you get it? I have to stop him!"
"I don't quite understand, but I will help if I can. I could give you a ride." Charlie tried to understand. Maybe a cop car would be more impressive.
"Okay."
I got hold of Billy, and told him about Jacob. I told him we would pick him up on the way.
When we arrived in LaPush it was nearly sunset. Billy was waiting on the front porch, talking to Paul. Charlie and I got out of the car quickly.
"What's going on, Billy?" I asked him.
"We have to hurry. Jacob is at First Beach. Quil's grandfather and the elders are there with him. We don't have much time." We drove to the beach, which was faster, and parked in the sand parking lot. We rushed the beach. I could see smoke from the parking lot, and ran towards it. The sand beneath my feet was like quicksand, and I could hardly run. Charlie and Billy trailed far behind me. I was yelling for Jacob, but the waves were drowning me out. I saw Jacob in the distance next to a bonfire, with the elders surrounding him. They were chanting. Jacob was kneeling, shirtless, rocking back and forth. His eyes were closed, and he looked like he was chanting as well. One of the elders threw something into the fire and an enormous red flame shot straight out of the fire looking like a shape of a wolf. Then I saw the oddest thing. The fire suddenly shot through Jacob like a lightning bolt. His body convulsed like 1000 volts were shooting through him. I screamed and fell to my knees. "NOOOO!" I reached to him, but the fire was gone in a second, and Jacob was laying face down in the sand. The fire was gone, and only black smoke rose from the pit. Tears streamed down my throat. I got up and ran to his side. I shook him and petted his head. I turned him over. His chest was black like ash where the fire had shot through him. I put my head on him and wept. He was breathing, but not conscious. Charlie and Billy caught up to us. A few moments later, all members of Jacob's pack were there. Sam, Paul, Jared, Seth, Leah, Collin, and Brady. They surrounded us in a circle. The elders said something in Quiluete language, and left. I was still weeping. I looked around to all of them, helpless. Charlie knelt next to us, and touched my shoulder.
"Maybe we should take him to the doctor?" I shook my head at Charlie. I was hysterically sobbing.
"No. I'm okay." Jacob finally spoke in a raspy voice. He opened his eyes and smiled at me. "Hi." He said to me.
"Why Jake? Why did you do this? You didn't have to do this for me."
"I'm okay, Ness. Maybe I did this for me. We are the same now."
"No, Jake. You shouldn't have." I was angry with him now. I started slapping him on the chest. "You could have died! Why did you do that!" He grabbed my arms from hitting him, and kissed me. This only made me more angry.
"I did it for us. It was harmless, trust me. You have nothing to worry about."
I got up from him, and wiped my tears away. "You shouldn't have done it, Jake. You just don't get it do you?"
I started to walk away from him. He got up and chased after me. He grabbed my arm and turned me around.
"Why are you so mad? I thought this was what was best for us. It will be better this way, you'll see."
"No, Jake. You're wrong."
I walked away from him and then started to run back to the main road. I didn't wait for Charlie. I didn't get very far
when my father pulled up in Carlisle's Mercedes.
"Get in." He told me holding the door for me. Dad pulled away, and I could see Jacob catching up as we sped up out of reach. Dad looked at me.
"I don't want to talk about it. Can we go home?"
"We'll be there in a few minutes."
"No, I mean to New Hampshire? I want to go to our home. And Jacob can stay here. I don't want him to come."
"Okay. I will make arrangements." He didn't argue. He got on the cell phone and made some arrangements.
"Thanks, Dad."
We didn't speak the rest of the way. I immediately went to my room and started to pack. My father came in my room a few minutes later.
"We can be on the next flight. We have to leave now. You're mother will be following us in a few days. She will intercept Jacob."
I nodded and grabbed my bag. We left immediately. Jacob just missed us. He didn't even know we had left town.
51
©2009 Erin Hartfile