Hey guys, I took out the lemon in this one because I didn't think I did it well and because I'm afraid some young whippersnappers will read it. If anyone wants it back up let me know and I'll post it somewhere separate. I mean it wasn't that great, I was just keeping in mind that it would of been her first time so it's pretty vanilla. I wrote the next one in Paul's POV so let me know if you would want to see that.

I tried it because I figured ya freaks would were looking for that in something rated M but I guess I'm not as badass as I thought.


I ran as fast as I could – which was really fast since I'd phased, all the way to the one place I knew I could be helped.

Samuel's house.

I knew I couldn't stay along the road in plain sight so I stuck to the woods. After a while, I got lost. I panicked, not knowing where I was or what to do. Luckily, I seemed to have some kind of instincts and began howling. Just a few seconds afterward, a howl was returned. It meant that help was coming my way. I was surprised at how fast the response was but I was glad.

How long would I be waiting here? Who would come for me? It wouldn't be Paul or Jacob, the two I would've depended on in the past. I would never be able to trust anyone the same way again. The pain and rage blended as one inside me, as I paced in circles. Paul was probably toasty warm in Rachel's bed, having forgotten all about me. Jacob had Bella now. Who had I been kidding, tagging along with him and Bella? I obviously wasn't wanted.

Now to top it all off, I'm a freaking wolf. Could my life get any better?

I hope you caught the sarcasm in that last statement. If not, please do face-palm yourself immediately.

Speaking of which, seeing who answered my call, made me want to face-palm.

It was a dark grey wolf I knew too well. I could tell him apart from everyone else in a pack of two-hundred wolves. I knew the way he walked, with his head hung a little lower as if untrusting to his environment. I knew the way his feet hit the ground a little harder as if he were stomping as he padded forward. I knew those yellow –

Eyes. As I looked directly into his eyes as if it was the first time I'd seen them, only one thing came into my mind. A story, or legend, which always actually seemed to end up being true, was all I could think of. Not one from the tribe but one my father told me, my favorite bedtime story in fact.

"Once upon a time, when the Gods and people existed together, people had four arms and four legs. They had two heads and two faces. They existed happily as they were, and grew more powerful as time went on. The Gods decided that the humans were getting too powerful, and needed to be put back into place somehow, so they cut the humans in half. Each human now only had two arms, two legs, one head and one face. They had to spend the rest of their lives searching for their other half to make themselves whole again. It became the point of life."

As a spirit warrior, who was here to protect the tribe, I had to be my strongest. Imprinting made us find our other half so we would become so and be the best form of ourselves. In a way, we were lucky. We didn't have to spend our lives fighting to find our soul mate. But there was a catch; we'd have to give priority to the tribe. Although everyone wants to find their soul mate, the best part of doing so, is falling in love with them, not knowing whether that person is really the one. Sometimes, humans make a mistake, but it's that feeling of going head first into the unknown that makes love such a rush.

As a werewolf, I'd never get that rush, it seemed; because my other half, was standing right in front of me.

I have to admit; my soul did feel complete. It was like reading a good book but skipping to the very end, to know what happens. You love it, but it makes you wish you'd stuck it out and read everything in order because it would've made said ending that much better. Although, I was a bit disappointed, my feet seemed to move on their own. Heck, my body moved on its own. Closer and closer to Paul.

I felt all the anger from earlier fade, and my body slowly shrank back into its' human form. Paul's did the same. Whatever problems we'd had, temporarily disappeared. I ran into his arms and hugged him. It felt warm, and sticky. Like, that feeling you get when you fold your legs for too long, and the area behind your knee gets sweaty, which makes your thigh and calf stick together from the greasiness. Which only meant one thing. Flesh to flesh contact.

I'm naked. Hugging Paul. Who is also naked. It felt right but as the high from the finding-my-imprint situation started to melt away, I slowly started feeling uncomfortable. I could almost feel the rush of fast-paced pointless thoughts banging on my head, trying to break my inner calm the imprint had given me.

Okay. Now Gabz, you are naked and pressed up against a naked man who you are supposed to be very upset with. He hasn't contacted you in days.

Who the hell is this voice in my head all the time? Should I see a specialist about this overactive conscience of mine? You know what, no, I know how to handle these things. I've spent my whole life controlling this.

Well, I can't exactly say 'controlled' but I've gotten it down to an unharmful level and can ignore for several minutes at a time. Now breathe deeply Gabz. Focus. The voice was right. Now, confront Paul. I gave myself a little mental push from behind, as encouragement.

Where to start? How about with the most obvious and work into the little kinks? "Uhm. We're kind of naked."

"Yeah. The clothes rip when you phase." Paul held me but kept his distance by not letting his body touch mine anymore. I wanted it to though. My body inched closer.

Get a hold of yourself women! I don't care if he's your soul mate, he has to make the first moves. What are you, barbaric?

Okay. What next? First little issue. Actually, very big issues.

"Why haven't you contacted me?" I demanded.

"It's a bit hard to use a cellphone as a wolf. As you'll find." I wanted to slap the grin of his face. But I am a civilized woman and will not go down to that level. Right now.

"So, you're telling me that you've been a wolf this whole time? Well, you could've visited or dropped by y'know. We don't live that far." I had to test him. Make sure he hadn't been with Rachel. I used the suspicious take-no-bullshit I'd practiced in the mirror during my alone time.

"I was so angry that I couldn't get back to human form. You think I'd put you in danger like that? I watched from a distance. You were always with him. And he…" Paul stopped. He was holding back on something. He was shaking in rage. Okay so I might've gone a little too far. Make it better Gabz! Go! Mental shove!

"That's really thoughtful of you."

That's it? That's all you can think of, Gabz?

Of course, not, just give me a sec geez.

Damn inner turmoil.

"I was always with him because you weren't around. I was stuck being third wheel to them, just to get my mind off you." Good one, Gabz. Make it about him. It's a little true. "But we're here now. Paul, I'm pretty sure I just imprinted on you." I smiled shyly.

If this were baseball, I would've made a homerun along with all my teammates on the bases.

Grand slam.

His eyes softened in a way I assumed Paul only could for me, well, considering how much of a jerk he'd been before the imprint. Before I could think more on it, his lips were on mine. Holding me close, no longer seeming to care about the whole no clothes thing. He even pulled away and looked me up and down. I couldn't help but feel self-conscious when he started laughing at me. Who wouldn't?

What a moment killer.

"So that's why your fur is that color." He breathed deeply, pursuing his lips then holding a fist over his mouth to stop himself from laughing again.


"I know girl when you look at me,
you don't know how I feel,
I'm usually so nonchalant
My feelings I conceal
But I want you to know, oh I want you know
I must admit I've felt this way for more than quite a while
But I can't hold it no longer when I, see that pretty smile
Can't wait no more
Ooh, Girl,
To tell you the truth
it's always been you
I'm all about you."
-Paul to Gabz [All About You – Bruno Mars]


"Yeah. Very funny. You're a real comedian, Paul." I said dryly. "If you don't like it you can go find some one-toned girl." Like Rachel, I thought to myself bitterly.

"No. It's not like that Gabz. I would care if you were green and rode on a broom." Was that a witch joke? So, what if I enjoyed Harry Potter. And those broom and green-skin stereotypes are not true. Ass. "I love you no matter what you are." He took my hand and pulled me down with him onto the grassy forest floor. We lay down staring up, unable to see the stars through the dense trees. Everything was dark. "I think it's cute though. Like a panda." He grinned and I could see his bright white teeth in the dark. "Are you sure you imprinted on me Gabz?" I nodded. "What did you feel?" He asked. He didn't believe me.

"It felt as if I suddenly felt the world spinning on its axis and then it abruptly stopped. Corny as it sounds, it's like my world now revolves around you, instead of spinning on its axis like it had." I spoke slowly, trying hard to put into words what I'd felt. Describing the sensation took so much of my mind power that I didn't realize how humiliating it was until after I'd said it. I'd already embarrassed myself, so I decided to finish. "A story came to mind as well. One my dad used to tell me. My favorite bed-time story in fact."

"Tell me the story." His voice was almost demanding. The eagerness encouraged me to keep going. And I told him. He was quiet afterwards and so was I. It was one of those moments where words weren't necessary. Our hands were linked and fingers enlaced as we looked up at the dark forest above us. Paul was the first to speak. What he said honestly shocked me.

"I think I need to tell you something." I pinched myself and rubbed my eyes to make sure I wasn't dreaming. Was he really about to open up to me? It's about damn time. I've been telling him everything going on in my mind, well just the normal thoughts. Don't judge me. You'd do the same if you had this problem. I bet I have some kind of undiscovered mental disorder.

"I want to tell you why I was so against imprinting... and why I was scared to give you my 100%." he sounded uncomfortable so I gave his hand a little squeeze, "You know how my mom left my dad, right?"

"I think our situations a little different." I was a bit excited.

"It is now. My dad imprinted on my mom." Didn't see that comin' I'll tell ya that much. "But she still left us. I guess my dad's a little... different but I've always felt that imprinting is overrated if she was able to leave him."

"Baby, I can't leave you, even if I hadn't imprinted on you too. I love you too much. And what do you mean your dad is different? I think all dads are a little weird." I turned onto my side to face him as I spoke.

"He just is. I don't know how to explain it." he seemed almost frustrated. Poor thing. Now this is where the self-esteem issues come from and what makes him a complete ass. All he needs is someone to be there for him. There is nothing I could want more than to be that someone.

"I want to meet your dad. And sister." I said bravely. I was disappointed by his response.

"Maybe another time baby." His face was turned away from me and we sat in silence yet again. It was an awkward silence and I was a little hurt by what he'd said, so I couldn't think of any good ice breakers.

I started to feel emotional and I wanted to cry, only more so when I felt my body trembling. Paul still didn't trust me 100% to let me meet his family and to top it all off, I was turning into a wolf and I didn't know how to stop it. I was sad and scared all at to wave off the feelings only reminded me more of them.


"Where are all those tears coming from?
Why are they falling?
Somebody, somebody, somebody left your heart in the cold
You just need somebody to hold on, baby
Give me a chance to put back all the pieces
Take your broken heart
Make it just like new
There's so many things that I can do

Why don't you tell me where it hurts now, baby
And I'll do my best to make it better
Yes, I'll do my best to make those tears all go away
Just tell me where it hurts now, tell me
And I love you with a love so tender
Oh and if you let me stay
I'll love all of the hurt away

"

-Gabz to Paul ('Tell Me Where It Hurts' - MYMP)


I ran towards my home, jumping through my open window since it was dark and no one was around. Paul followed me.


"Baby, I need you to breathe deep. Now think of something calm." I did as told, imagining a moment we'd had during the summer at the beach; the wind blowing through my hair as we sat and watched the nighttime waves. I felt myself shrinking, and it felt good so I continued relaxing. Before I could register, I was human again and still naked. We'd both been naked and laying in the forest.

Without alcohol in my system or something to cover my uneven tan, I felt shy standing here in the light of my room naked.

I did so with a hand over my chest and another over my private area. You know, the place where the sun don't shine, if you catch my drift. Paul chuckled and turned around while I got dressed. He had a pair of shorts he'd left so he wore that and one of my dad's plain white shirts. My dad would never know it was gone, as long as Paul didn't wear the shirt in front of him.

I left a note in the kitchen that I'd be at Samuel and Emily's since they were probably going to be late at the hospital with Bella.

Bella. Everything was always about her now. Is it wrong for me to want a little attention? Not even that, just a little sign of appreciation for the things I do around here. Just a simple 'thank you' would suffice. But not even that. They couldn't even give me a ride home. Am I really so insignificant around here?

The familiar feeling of phasing washed over me yet again. I ran out the door to the edge of the woods, not forgetting to stay hidden. Paul followed, as a human, making sure to lock the doors and get behind some trees before phasing. Good idea. I should've thought of that too, I guess.

Did he just lick me? Okay. I'll have to get used to that. Oh, piss he's running without me. Paul, come back!

I followed the dark grey figure as it swiftly ran past trees and leapt gracefully over logs. I attempted to do the same but to no hope. Well, at least I tried. Okay, I'll worry about looking pretty next time, I'm starting to lose him. The ass wasn't slowing down for me. Did no one ever think of me and how I felt?

When we got to Samuel's house, he ran out and phased as well. He and Paul seemed to be communicating. I then remembered that wolves are supposed to have telepathy. But I wasn't getting anything except for the growls and whines, and I could feel the emotions behind them but definitely not clear thoughts as I expected. After a moment of silence, the two began howling. I assumed to call the others, because they arrived moments later. I still heard no thoughts from any of them.

I know as a human, I'm a little…. 'detached' but this wasn't funny anymore, the whole spirits poking fun at me. This was a serious matter. How could they make me some kind of retarded panda bear wolf with communication problems? Not to mention, I was the smallest one here, with at least a foot of difference between Paul and I. Don't even get me started with Samuel.

Samuel was the first to turn human. Emily had been ready with some clothes and a towel, thankfully. Paul had removed his clothing before phasing and changed behind a bush. The others seemed to have clothes hidden in trees or logs and came out fully dressed. Paul motioned for me to come to him. He'd brought clothes for me. Oh, thank God. I changed quickly. I felt Samuel had something important to say. When we came out, I beat him to the punch.

"Why can't I hear you guys? Isn't there some kind of wolf telepathy? Is there something wrong with me?" I asked. Samuel and the others laughed. Oh, so they found this funny. They should be hyenas with those cackles. Jerks.

"Baby, you have to be accepted into the pack by the alpha first." Paul said, still smiling.

"Although, I don't doubt there is something wrong with you, Gabz." Jared added. After a quick glare at him, I looked to Samuel.

"Samuel, if you don't accept me I may have to hold a grudge." Samuel only laughed. Everyone seemed to be in such a great mood today.

"Of course, Gabriella." He chuckled. Then he turned to me with a serious face. "Do you wish to join this pack? A straight answer Gabriella, just yes or not, it's how it works. No funny business."

"Okay… Yes." I shrugged. Embry and Jared had gone inside and gotten a wolf-skin cloak-like thing and draped it over me.

"Do you swear to keep the pack secrets for they are not yours to tell?" I answered 'Yes' again, "Do you swear to follow your alpha and do everything in your power to protect the people of the tribe?" I nodded, somewhat hesitantly. Did I really want this? "In words, Gabriella." Sam sighed. I again, answered 'Yes.' "Then, welcome to the pack young Gabriella." He said warmly. I didn't feel very different.

"Uh, so now what? Should I put my hand over a bible or sign a legally-binding contract?" It felt too easy to get in. "Should I -" I stopped and raised an eyebrow at the way Samuel seemed to be in shock and amused all at once.

I'm surrounded by assholes.

"Sorry Gabriella. It's just I never expected you to imprint of all people. Not just because you're a girl either." Was he insulting me? "Anyways, in wolf form you will now be able to hear us. You don't have to sign anything because it's the tribe's magic, the same one that makes us phase, that binds you to following me, as your alpha." Okay, I wasn't exactly planning some kind of rebellion in which I would expose shape-shifters all-over but at least I knew now the control he had over me. Samuel continued, taking on a more serious expression." We'll have to think of an excuse to get you away from home and stay here until you can get yourself under control. You wouldn't want to hurt Bella or Charlie, which would in turn be dangerous for the whole pack." Did they have no trust in me keeping a secret whatsoever?

"Yeah, especially you Gabz. Grizzly bears and black bears could be found in the area, but I think a panda bear may alarm someone." Jared added.

"I don't think so, Jared." Oh, how nice of Embry to come to my rescue. Or so I thought. "Don't think she's big enough to be mistaken for a bear. Maybe an over-sized husky." They slapped each other's backs and had a real good laugh about it.

"Oh wow. You should all try out starting a clown service, to put your overactive funny bones to use!" I huffed. "I'm going inside to do something useful with my life. I'm starving. Maybe I'll find someone who will take me seriously while I'm at it."

It only caused them all, including Samuel and Paul, to laugh harder. I didn't miss Jared's high five to Embry either.

Like I said, surrounded by assholes.

"Not so fast. Gabriella, stay." My feet stopped and I was unable to move forward. I didn't feel any physical constraint but rather a mental one that convinced me that what Samuel was saying was the best thing to do.

"We will have a feast in celebration of your transformation." He was completely serious now. "Babe." He nodded to Emily with a smile. She smiled and retreated to the kitchen.

I looked around, expecting them all to burst into laughter. But all three boys stood still, also completely serious. It seemed food was a not a joking matter in this pack.

Well, I guess I got what I wanted.


"Well." I said happily at my reflection in Emily's living room mirror. Lines in my legs showed my muscles had been growing. My thigh and arms were no longer flabby. I was elated, Jacob always made fun of me for having flabby arms and would always repeatedly smack my arm fats at random moments. Sure, it's a lot of fun when you're doing the arm fat smacking but not so enjoyable on my part, the innocent and un-expecting victim. I'd make sure to whack him in the face with my new muscles sometime; when I got this whole temperamental transform into a wolf thing in check. It may or may not take a while.

No wonder my body had been so sore. This whole time I thought the Abs-In-Ten-Minutes tapes I'd bought were working. To find out it was actually me about to phase, really pissed me off. I spent twenty bucks and waited in a line at Wal-Mart for almost an hour just to get those damn tapes. I could've eaten twenty chicken sandwiches from the McSavers menu at McDonald's and it wouldn't have made a difference in my body.

As I peered to the side of the mirror, I saw pencil lines marked onto the wooden walls, starting from about three feet up to almost seven feet. These marks represented Samuel and I's heights over the years. In the good ol' days, when girls were growing faster than the boys and Samuel and I were in elementary, he and I were always just one inch apart in height. Yes, although he is four years older, I had always been the tallest in my class back then. When the boys started growing in middle school, there was no competition between us. For some reason, in about sixth grade, I just stopped growing. We still kept tabs here on the wall. Our last was about six months ago when he'd started growing because apparently, he'd phased at the time and I had no idea back then. What a cheater.

Now that I've phased, could I possibly have grown?

I looked around, just to make sure no one was watching. All seemed to be busy in the kitchen. The tribe's usual coming-of-age for a girl celebration involves a potlatch, but seeing as my mother was no longer alive, they all wanted to be the ones to provide for it. Each made their own 'special dish'. Paul felt my gaze and looked up from the cheese he was grating. He smiled warmly at me then immediately got back to work. I took one last glance at everyone and when I was sure no one was paying me any mind, I stood with my back against the wall and marked my height. After making a quick mark, I turned to see it.

Only to find, that it was identical to my last one. So, no change in my height.

Really though? Not even a little bit of growth? Did I do something to make the spirits hate me?

"Don't get your hopes up Gabriella." I didn't have to look to know who I was talking to.

"Oh, hello there Samuel," I sneered. "You know what? I'm glad I haven't gotten any taller." I gave him the head-to-toe look, making sure to look repulsed by what I saw, "I might get uglier, liiiike YOU." I didn't take a second to think if I should flee or not, and flee, I did. I ran while screaming and flailing my arms dramatically, hoping to get the attention of anyone courageous enough to save me. I got the attention of everyone in the house but no one offered any help.

Since no one volunteered, I forced them into becoming my human shields. First was Paul, whom Samuel didn't seem to be afraid of.

"I'm his imprint, you're not allowed to do any," I decided to make a quick get-away "haaaaaaarm!" I bellowed while diving behind Emily.

Samuel stood still with a horrified look on his face. Emily had her hand on her hip and I could only imagine the ferocious look on her face that could make Samuel frozen in his tracks.

"Honey," she said in a voice that was dangerously sweet, like arsenic or cyanide, "This is Gabe's special day. We wouldn't want to ruin it. Besides, I don't want rough play in my home."

Samuel nodded, putting his arms around her and kissing her. I beamed.

One point for Gabz. Although ugly was a very grade-school insult, I still had won by using Emily to get away from any minor consequence it may bring. I took shelter under Paul's arm, just to play it safe. He scoffed as if he thought I was being childish, but when I looked he was grinning as he continued chopping.

I may be short, a little chunky, multi-colored, not the most beautiful girl out there, odd, somewhat delirious, and so forth; but I did seem to get away with everything. I think I'm pretty clever too and that all real geniuses have quarrels with themselves in their minds. I'm normal, right?

Yeah, I'm normal.

Dinner was delicious. They seemed to have cooked all my favorites; lasagna and garlic bread, big juicy burgers and fries, some César salad with croutons, apple pie, roast chicken with stuffing and gravy, chocolate mud pie, pork chops, and steak. It was everything I'd ever fantasized, all on one table. And boy had my appetite grown from all the phasing.

"Gabriella," Samuel was holding a glass. Was he about to toast in my honor? Wow, I wish I'd known. I'd of prepared a little speech or something polite. "Most of here have known you since you were a baby, and to many, you're like our annoying little sister. Very annoying." I resent that. "But we love you anyway and it just wouldn't be as fun without you." I was beaming. "I never expected you to become a werewolf like us. I would never wish it on you, but I know you'll be a great contribution to the pack. We have a feast for every new member, but so far this is our biggest. Not just because you're special but to celebrate our first female member." The others clapped then raised their glasses along with Samuel. It was like having my birthday for a second time this year.

When they clinked their glasses together, most broke from the force. No one seemed to mind. I guess it happens often. Emily laughed and continued talking while she swept up the shards of glass.

Poor thing, she'd done most of the cooking and now she was cleaning. I jumped up to help her but I was instantly shot down. Her face suddenly got serious.

"Gabe." Her tone demanding, "Sit down and eat. You need it.". If it was anyone else less intimidating, I would've insisted on helping. But I wasn't dumb enough to argue with her. My eyes widened for a quick second and I sat back onto the chair. She smiled pleasantly again and continued cleaning and chatting with the guys, who hadn't seemed to notice our little exchange. Samuel sat at the head of the table with Jared to his right and a seat for Emily to his left. I sat next to her empty seat, across from Paul. Embry sat to my right and Paul's left, across from Samuel. They were all talking about who was the fastest or strongest. Jared was sure to make bets on each topic.

"You know what I bet?" he motioned towards me, burger still in his hand and right cheek stuffed. I froze mid-chew, "That Gabz could beat Embry. Five bucks."

I swallowed the food in my mouth so I could react. "That's how little faith you have in me, Jared?" I put my hand on my chest dramatically, faking that I'd been offended.

"Ok, ten bucks." He said, nodding once. "Just because it's you Gabz.". I smiled in return, satisfied.

"Beat me in what?" Embry's voice was low. Anyone else might think it was me he was offended by, but I knew of the long feud that'd been going on between him and Jared. Honestly, it was Embry's fault for taking Jared's bets so seriously.

For some reason, I was feeling rather ballsy tonight.

"Pretty much anything." Jared shrugged simply. As another thought came to his mind, he started grinning, "She even has longer hair than you did, pretty boy. Bet it's softer and smells better too."

Embry was beginning to shake. He was often teased because of his obsession with his nice hair, which had been cut off when he'd phased. This couldn't be good. And I just had to be in the middle of all this mess. And knowing myself, I wouldn't back down especially on my first night as a wolf. I felt I had something to prove. "It's on then." Embry said in a quiet voice.

"Bring it!" I jumped out of my seat, punching the air with my fist. I was not going to be intimidated.

"I don't think so." Paul intervened. My head snapped to his direction and I let out a growl. Whoa, a little animalistic there. I was not going to play damsel-in-distress here and let Paul fight my battle for me. Embry was smirking at me.

"I think so and since it is I who is involved, I will make the decisions." I stalked off to the grassy area in front of the house and crossed my arms, waiting for Embry.

"What's first?" I called to Jared as they all came out to watch. Paul looked furious. Embry was still smirking. The ass.

"We'll see whose faster first, then." Jared smiled at me and winked. Paul seemed to calm down a bit. Embry came down and stood next to me. I wanted to smack the smirk right off his stupid face. He was so arrogant, just because I'm a girl and a little small. I was done with people underestimating me today. Before I knew it, my body was convulsing and I felt myself transform into my wolf form.

"Well, she sure phases faster than you, Embry." Jared said matter-of-factly. Just as I had wished, Embry's smirk fell into a frown and he phased as well. Not as fast as I had, might I add. I looked to Paul. He was trying to stop himself from smiling and being proud of me despite his disapproval of the activities taking place. If a wolf could smile, I was beaming at the moment.

We were lined up at the edge of the forest furthest from Emily's for the race. Jared, oddly enough, had brought black and white checkered flags used in NASCAR races. Had he planned this? Okay Gabz, don't go getting paranoid at a time like this. Focus.

Yeah, focus midget. I could hear Embry's thoughts. I simply growled in response.

We were to run only a short distance around the field and back to Emily's, where Samuel would be waiting to see who won. The whole group was rather biased and rooting for me, of course. I almost felt bad for Embry but the ass was so arrogant he even offered to take the outer loop by being on the right side. It didn't make a big difference but it was insulting on my part. Whatever, I'd have to make him lose badly then.

As soon as Jared yelled 'Go', we both took off, ready as ever in our wolf form. Embry took off with long strides that I had trouble matching. I didn't really try, I made sure my little legs did five steps for every one of his, at first, we were about equal but I pushed a little harder at the end whereas Embry had been giving it his all through the race. I made it so six of my strides would be equivalent to just one of his and pulled myself just inches forward. Samuel's proud smiling face made me push myself even harder, squeezing my eyes shut and putting all the force I had into my legs. If there was one thing I was sure of, I am a very competitive individual.

"GABRIELLA's THE WINNER!" He yelled. I was overjoyed. I was panting but not as much as Embry. His body was much larger than mine so it must've taken much more energy to run with such a heavy loud. Not to mention he's quite lean compared to me. I was pretty muscular for a female, with thick hind legs to propel me forward. Jared and Paul jogged over not bothering to hide their grins.

"That's what you get for underestimating a girl, Embry." Emily smacked him playfully, "You were close though but I think Gabz might be the fastest in the pack so far!".

You got lucky. Only I could hear Embry's thoughts.

You wish. You're the one who got lucky, to get that close behind me.

Next thing I knew, Embry charged at me. Someone's a bit sensitive. I took a step to the side, just in time to dodge his attack. In my peripheral, I saw that Paul had phased but stopped charging once he saw that Embry had missed.

You really are slow, Emz. It's alright, at least you still look pretty. I thought, only making him angrier. He came back to bite me, again and again. I'm sure it would have hurt if he'd made contact, but I was able to dodge in between his legs and around him, so he didn't get so lucky. I didn't taunt him because I was focused on not being bit, he came real close quite a few times, and I didn't want to aggravate him anymore. As my muscles began to feel a bit tired from all the jumping around, Embry stopped. He flopped onto the floor, too tired to keep trying. I hadn't bitten him because every time I would try, he would attack as well and I would have to pull myself away again as not to get hit.

Fine, Gabz. You win this time. He looked up to me, rolling his eyes when I gave him my wolfy grin. I felt myself starting to calm down. Meaning I would become human again. Oh my, I should hide. I felt myself beginning to change mid-jump and hopefully I'd gotten behind the bush just in time. I peered over the top of the bush to see Embry's wolf form disappearing behind the house. Paul was running over to me, already in a new pair of shorts, with my extra pair of clothes. How many extra pairs had he brought? Good thinking on his part.

I changed quickly in the clothes. I was sticky from sweat and almost regretted the whole competition.

"Now, that was unexpected. I'm sorry for doubting you baby. You were amazing." He lifted me bridal style and kissed me on the cheek despite the dripping sweat. I decided to forgive him since the gesture was so sweet although a bit disgusting. "But it's not going to happened again. " My mouth dropped open. Why was he so overprotective? I'd understand if I'd almost died or something but he hadn't even gotten close at nipping me. As flattering as it was that he cared so much, it was insulting that he was still underestimating me.

"Did you not just see all that? He wasn't even close!" I whined.

"Gabby, it's not going to happen again. I'll be making sure Jared keeps you out of his bets from now on." His voice told me his decision was final. I pushed myself out of his arms and stomped all the way to the house. He was treating me like a little child, so I acted like one. The ass found this funny. I continued to ignore him as soon as we were inside.

"Em, can I take a shower?" I asked politely. She nodded with small smile. When I turned to get to the bathroom, Paul was right behind me. I felt steam coming out of my ears. Well, at least I imagined I did, just like in the cartoons.

"I may not have a mother, but I do have a father. So, you don't have to act like one." Unless he was trying to be a mother figure. Ew. I could imagine him in an apron and it was not a pretty sight. My statement seemed to shock him and he didn't move when I weaved around him and made a bee line for the bathroom. I almost felt bad for what I'd said to him. Almost.

A hot shower was just what I needed; it cleaned off the sweat and dirt and made me feel fresh again. It also relaxed my tired muscles. As I was taking my sweet time, lathering up Emily's floral scented soap, I heard a light knock on the door. I had a feeling it was Paul. Whoever it was, didn't say anything and didn't knock a second time. It probably was Paul and he was probably feeling pretty bad. I was starting to feel bad. I blame the imprint though. I forced myself with much effort to ignore the feeling and came out of the shower singing. I continued even when I came out of the bathroom, fully dress but with a towel on my head.

"Oooooh! When a maaaaaaaaaaaaaaan loves a woman, he can't keep his mind – oh." I sang, putting my arms out to the side at the high note and pulling them into fists after, until I realized everyone was in the living room and staring at me from the couch. Should I just act like nothing happened or make some kind of excuse? Unable to think of anything, I simply acknowledged the moment by clearing my throat and then sitting down next to Jared on the couch. I turned my head slowly, only to see exactly what I'd feared, they were still staring at me. Quick Gabz! Change the subject or something. Get the attention of your stupid moment.


Ooh! When a man loves a woman, he can't keep his mind on nothing else
He'll trade the world for the good thing he's found
If she is bad, he can't see it, she can do no wrong
Turn his back on his best friend if he put her down

-When A Man Loves a Woman (Joshua Ledet Version)


"So, uh, did Embry pay you?" I asked Jared with a very forced smile.

"He'd won our last bet so it was pretty much even." He shrugged.

"Nice fight though Gabz. But don't expect to get so lucky next time." Embry winked at me. I knew Paul wanted to saw there wouldn't be a next time, and I was sure he would still make sure there wasn't, but he sat there quietly, not looking up. So, he felt bad about treating me like a little girl.

Good.

I felt the urge to jump back into his arms but I resisted. My foot twitched a little but that was it. I even prevented myself from smirking, keeping the straight face I'd been practicing.

Samuel cleared his throat, he had something to say. "Gabriella, we'll have to make arrangements with your father for you to stay here for two weeks." I opened my mouth to argue but Samuel cut me off, "Your father will be fine, we'll take turns patrolling your house." He'd read my mind. Could he do that even in human form? "You pose a threat to his well-being, with your current inability to control your phase when you become overly emotional. I will be helping you to overcome this. As soon as you're able to keep yourself from phasing, you can go home. We will call Charlie tomorrow, give yourself two or three weeks."

We discussed several stories to tell my dad, but the best we thought of was to say it was a tribe coming-of-age thing. We'd also have to give a letter to the school to excuse me. The school always respected the tribe's celebrations and we expected it to be approved without much questioning. Paul would get my work for me. To make sure my dad would approve, we would say it was part of my mother's will that I go through with it. Out of respect for my deceased mother, he would not disagree. He never did, when it came to her. It must've been guilt. Not just for getting her pregnant, which ended up killing her, but also for dishonoring her by getting her pregnant out of wedlock. It happened sometimes but was absolutely degrading in our tribe's culture.

I ignored Paul as Jared and Embry went home, and Samuel and Emily went to bed. As much as Samuel was acting like a big brother, Emily told him not to get in between another wolf and his imprint even more so two wolves whom had imprinted on one another. It seemed pretty sure that we were meant to be together and, in this pack, it meant we had to end up together. As romantic as it all is, I couldn't help but dislike the feeling that my life seemed to be chosen for me. Well, as long as it's Paul I guess. I really do love him. Either way, all I wanted was for him to come talk to me first even if he didn't apologize. Which he did not do.

We went inside the guest bedroom Emily had prepared for us. It was on the other side of the house from their room.

"Baby, do you want me to stay here in the guest room with you or just go home?" He was dumb to even suggest it. I raised my eyebrow at him, he knew it was playful because of the small smile I had. He stood up and pulled me up by the hand. He bent down to kiss me. His lips came down to mine in a passionate kiss that left me catching my breath afterward. I took his hand and led him into the guest room. I hadn't had anything to drink so that was about as daring as I got. Paul on the other hand, was exceptionally bold.

As soon as we'd reached the bed, he pulled himself on top of me and was kissing me with a fire I didn't know he possessed. I shivered when he started moving towards my neck and down my navel. I could feel his warm lips even through the thin material I was wearing. He slowly peeled my top off and tossed it aside. I gasped at the feeling of his lips directly leaving hot trails on my skin. He grinned at my reaction.

"Do you want to, baby?" he asked.

"Do you?" I rebutted. He looked at me as if I'd sprouted another head.

"Is that a serious question?" He half-laughed. I raised a brow and he stopped.

"You've just never wanted to before..."

"I did, baby but I told you I wasn't sure if you were going to leave me. And if you did, I wanted be sure the guy you chose over me wouldn't disrespect you because of something we did." He explained. "I've wanted this since the moment I imprinted on you... maybe even before that."

We made love for the first time that night. It didn't hurt as badly as I thought it might. Paul made sure to take care of me first. Twice! I knew from my friends' stories that not all guys did this. He also did for a third time afterwards. He didn't use a condom, he thought it would hurt more but I was upset. What if I got pregnant! He said he'd take care of it, but I was not ready to have a child.

I woke up sore the next morning and not just from the little battle I'd had with Embry. Still, I didn't regret it. I knew Paul was the one for me. It was the becoming a wolf thing that I wasn't quite sure I wanted. Even though I could whoop Embry's ass, it meant I could have to stay forever on this reservation. It was my plan before to go to college around here to be near dad, but when it was forced upon me it only made me want to get away. Far, far away.