Chapter 10 "Across That Line"

Disclaimer: We only own a few things. A "Gone with the Wind" blanket, a ton of N'Sync stuff, and Lillah, Carter and Eli. We definitely do not own Twilight or SM's characters. We just like to play with them.

A/N: Thank you to our amazing beta, Scooter (dailyicandy), who went way above and beyond the beta call of duty. She's off to Europe this week for vacation, but she and her mad beta skills worked ahead of schedule. Now, while she's trying to remember how to say "I'd like one in each color, please!" in Italian, the LC fans still get their weekly dose!

Restless tonight
Cause I wasted the light
Between both these times
I drew a really thin line
It's nothing I planned
And not that I can
But you should be mine
Across that line
"One Thing" - Finger Eleven

EPOV

Lillah stops the Camaro in a parking spot in front of First Beach. I quickly jump out of the car as soon as she shuts it off. I'm trying to come to grips with her having two cars. It doesn't make sense. What single person has two cars? My only answer is someone way out of my league. That's why we can only be friends. No matter how much it feels right to be around her, she comes from a completely different world.

Again, I remind myself, it isn't her fault fate had me imprint on her. I shouldn't punish her. With that thought in mind, I run to the other side of the Camaro, opening her door and helping her out.

Lillah blushes before taking my hand, "Thanks, Embry."

"Of course, why don't you head down to the beach? I need to grab a few things from my truck." I intend to just let go of her hand, but instead lean down and kiss her cheek, "I'll meet you down there shortly."

I watch her walk toward the beach, smiling when I see Rachel and Kim pull her towards them. Whether they know for sure or not, it's good to see them accept her so willingly into their group.

Jacob runs up to me then, punching me on the shoulder and wiggling his eyebrows, "Well, well, what have we here? I saw that little peck on the cheek. You are almost as chaste as Edward."

"Yep, this is why I hate you Jacob."

Jacob chuckles and follows me as I walk over to my truck. I pull a bag from the back of the truck, tugging clean jeans, boxers and a t-shirt out. "I need to change, you mind?"

"I've seen it all, but since you've apparently turned into a prude now that you've imprinted," Jacob turns his back to me before continuing, "I just wanted to thank you for switching off patrolling with me earlier. I wasn't expecting Ness to get here so early. And thanks for bringing her to me."

"Yeah, sure man, anytime. You know I love Ness; she's like a little sister to me. She's annoying and sometimes I want to strangle her, but I still love her and would do anything for her. Ok, all clear." I stuff the jeans I was wearing earlier into the now empty bag and toss it into the bed of the truck.

Jacob turns back to face me. I reach into the cab of the truck, pulling out the tarp and blankets I had placed in the passenger's seat this morning. I close the door and reach into the bed of the truck, pulling out a small cooler.

"Anyway man, thanks. So what is going on with you and Lillah?"

"We are friends."

I know Jacob wants to know more, but truthfully, that's all I can say.

Jacob shrugs, "I guess that's progress, right?"

We head toward the beach, Jacob keeping an eye on me as we walk. When I drop the tarp to the ground, I finally respond, "I guess, progress, yeah. I just, I don't know. I want to push her away, because I know we can't be together. But the more time I spend with her, I want to glue her to my side. The more I learn about her, the more I like her. I mean, she's smart and funny, and gorgeous, definitely gorgeous."

Jacob helps me unfold the tarp, "Yeah, it sucks when you start to fall in love with them."

"What? No, that's not what I meant, Jake. Lillah and I are barely friends." I cover the tarp with a blanket and set the cooler on top of both.

Jacob nods in understanding, "I know you are just friends, but man, listen to yourself. Whether you like it or not, you are falling hard and fast for her."

Jacob grins wide then turns to find Ness. I want to yell and scream at Jacob, deny what he said. But the memory of Lillah on the cliffs today forces me to acknowledge that Jacob may not be too far off base in his assumption.

-0-

After Ness found me earlier this afternoon, she and I walked the beach for a time, looking for Jacob. When he didn't appear after ten minutes or so, I told her to wait on the beach. I phased quickly, reaching out to Jacob to let him know Ness had arrived early. When Jacob showed up, I agreed to take over his patrols so he could spend the afternoon with Ness.

It had been quiet on patrols. Unable to stop myself, I ran past Rachel's house, only to find it empty with no cars in the driveway. Figuring maybe Rachel and Lillah had left early for the bonfire, I continued on my way.

I could sense Sam was patrolling as well, covering for Seth who would be patrolling tonight during the bonfire, but he didn't say anything. I approached the cliffs, surprised how angry the sea seemed to be today, given that it was supposed to be a clear night. None of the guys were supposed to be cliff diving, but just in case, I lifted my eyes, planning to alert them to the danger below.

But there weren't any guys up there; instead I saw two tiny feet dangling off the edge, bouncing around. Looking further up, I saw beautiful red-gold hair blowing in the breeze.

I started running. My only thought being I had to get to her before she jumped. I had seen the images of Bella jumping off the cliffs too many times in Jacob's mind over the years. Images of that day flashed through my mind, but now, instead of Bella Swan, it was Lillah jumping off the cliffs.

Finally just steps away from her I phased back to human form, approaching her quickly, my hand reaching out for her shoulder. When I finally touched her, my fear only intensified. I just knew if I didn't take her from the edge quickly, I would lose her. Not aware of what I was saying, I reached out and wrapped my arms around her waist, lifting her to me.

And then I ran. As fast as I could as far from the cliffs as possible. I didn't stop until I felt safe deep in the forest. I set her down on her feet, but she was still unsteady and grasped my arms. I asked her if she was ok, but I was still so paranoid I didn't believe her when she said she was fine. I wanted to know why she was up there, what she was planning to do, but she wouldn't tell me, which just fueled my anger. I knew I was being short with her, but I couldn't stop myself. I was torn between wanting to shake the truth out of her and doing a thorough examination of her body to confirm that she was, indeed, fine.

But before I could do either, she noticed my tattoo, and was fascinated by it. She even asked to 'see' it, as I'm standing naked before her. When I reminded her of my state of undress, she gave me some privacy by turning around. Not that I wouldn't have gotten dressed with her watching, but it would have been much more difficult to accomplish.

I quickly pulled my jeans on before returning to our conversation. We actually were able to converse, her giggling at some of my jokes, before Sam approached. He had noticed I wasn't phased. I could tell the last image he had seen was Lillah on the cliffs, so he was naturally concerned. As was I, but for a very different reason.

-0-

The images my mind had created of Lillah jumping off the cliffs are still fresh. I see her now, smiling and giggling with the other ladies and I'm put at ease. But this still doesn't clear the worry.

The worry that I am, as Jacob put it, falling hard and fast for her. I was paranoid this afternoon, running only on adrenaline. When I reached her, I knew she wasn't going to jump; she was simply enjoying the beauty of the cliffs. But in my mind, I saw her jumping as a way to escape me. For her to leave me behind, as she found someone that was more suitable for her.

I wouldn't blame her if she did. But the more time I spend with her, like I told Jacob, the more I want her around. I really am a selfish ass. I know she deserves better, but I don't want to give her up. I want her by my side as much as possible. I'm looking forward to tonight, because once the bonfire starts, it's just going to be Lillah and me on the blanket.

When I look up again, I see Sam, Emily, Claire and Eli have arrived. Lillah, Rachel, and Kim run to help Sam and Emily with the kids. Emily and Lillah hug briefly, before Lillah reaches into the car, pulling Eli out. Little man is giggling and tugging at her hair. Lillah grins from ear-to-ear, dropping kisses all over Eli's face before placing him in Emily's waiting arms.

As they walk around the car, Claire is out as well. She runs up to Lillah and hugs her tight. Lillah leans down and places a small kiss on the top of Claire's head. I'm surprised, but not shocked, by how well accepted Lillah is already.

But seeing her with Eli and Claire might be my undoing. I know the plan is to just be friends, maybe friends with benefits, but the sight of her holding Eli while Claire latches on to her legs hurts my heart. I want that to be our kids, giggling when Lillah picks them up, or hugging her tightly when she returns home. She shouldn't be borrowing other kids; she should be the mother of my children.

But that won't happen in the current situation. Even as I'm fighting to stay in control by being friends, I'm still slowly losing control. She keeps eating at me. Every time I give her a little more, she digs in deeper. I just don't know what to do.

As Lillah helps Emily set up their blanket, I move over to the grill to help Jacob and Jared.

"Hey guys, how can I help?"

Jared points to the table, "Grab one of those tin foil containers, the burgers are ready."

Reaching for the container, I see Lillah chasing Claire along the beach. This is one of Claire's favorite games, and I can tell she loves having someone new to play with. I turn back, handing the container to Jared, "Hey, Jake, where'd Ness go?"

"She's helping Sue to bring Dad down."

"Oh, ok. Well, when she gets back, bring her around, I want to introduce her to Lillah. But remind her to keep her mouth shut about Lillah and the imprinting thing."

"Sure sure, no problem. Do me a favor, remind Lillah of the same with Ness." I nod in agreement.

Jacob gives a loud whistle to indicate dinner is ready. I turn to see Claire and Lillah on the beach, flat on their backs. Lillah brushes her finger across Claire's nose and I'm over come. That should be our daughter she's playing with. I shake my head, trying to get control of my wayward mind. Lillah can barely stand me, why would I ever think she would be interested in anything more than being friends.

"I'll be right back," I tell Jared and Jacob as I start walking towards Claire and Lillah.

Claire is reluctant to give me a hug when I approach, but finally gives in when Lillah gives her 'approval'. I toss Claire over my shoulder and start walking back, surprised when Lillah grabs my hand. So far I've been the one to initiate things. I like having her feel comfortable enough to reach out to me.

We tease Claire, Lillah easily joining in on our little game, as we walk back. Emily joins in as well once we approach the picnic tables. Of course, as soon as Quil finds us, he lays into me about all the blood rushing to her head. This is a common theme; Quil is still freaked over the 'near' dropping incident of a few years ago.

I walk Lillah around to sit on the bench next to Emily, and then straddle the bench next to her. I'm desperate to pull her against me, but settle for being as close as possible without actually touching her. Sam joins us then, pulling Emily into his lap as I want to do with Lillah. I appease my need to touch her by resting my chin on her shoulder. She leans into my chest and it takes all of my will power not to pull her flush against me.

When Jacob comes around, I can feel Lillah's pulse quicken and I hear her sharp intake of breath. But she isn't looking at Jacob. Her eyes are locked on Ness, almost like she's recognizes her, but I don't know how that can be. I introduce her to Ness, keeping my voice even and low, trying to soothe her.

As Lillah shakes hands with Ness, I realize I forgot to mention to Lillah about keeping Jacob's secret. But I see Jacob nod at Lillah, almost in appreciation, so she must have given him some sign. We talk for a few more minutes before my stomach starts grumbling.

"Why don't we grab some food and move over to sit with Rachel and Kim?" I stand up, offering my hand to Lillah.

"Oh, ok. I'm not really that hungry, but you can eat." Lillah reaches for a water bottle, "You want something to drink?"

I grab two plates and pile hamburgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, vegetables, chips and fruit on both, "Water is fine. Mind grabbing a couple of forks and some napkins?"

She grabs the water, utensils and napkins and follows me, "Embry, I hope you are planning to eat all of that, I'm really not that hungry."

I set the plates down at the table, grinning at Paul and Jared as we sit. Rachel and Lillah are sitting on the inside of the bench, while Paul and I are on the outside. Jared and Kim are sitting on the opposite bench. As I get settled, I pull her against me, leaning down to whisper just for her to hear, "You eat what you would like, I'll eat the rest. Please, just eat something. I don't want you starving later."

She grumbles something about "pushy" and I laugh, digging in to the first hamburger on the plate in front of me, while Lillah stabs a strawberry with her fork.

Jacob and Ness join us a few minutes later. I nearly choke with laughter when I see Jacob has two plates as well and is forcing Ness to eat off of his plates. What is it about these women? They are so stubborn.

As Ness is nibbling on a hamburger, she turns to me, "Embry, Jacob tells me I have you to thank for the extra quality time I got with my best friend last week."

"Oh, it was nothing, glad to help."

Rachel joins in the conversation, "Don't let him be so modest, Ness. Apparently Embry was feeling very generous with his time last week. He covered patrols for both Jacob and Sam."

Ness's eyebrows rise in surprise at Rachel's statement, "Really? Don't you usually have late night patrols? When did you sleep last week?"

"I think he was trying to avoid sleeping last week, Ness," Jacob mutters, but its clear enough for the entire table to hear.

"Shut up, Jacob."

But I can tell this has caught Lillah's attention. She turns to me, "Why were you avoiding sleeping last week?"

I cut up some chicken and put it on the plate closer to her, "No reason, here, try some of this chicken, it's delicious."

"I was just wondering, Embry, are you going to be taking over his patrols this week?" Ness interrupts us, thankfully.

Before I can respond, Lillah jumps in, "When are Jacob's normal patrols?"

"Typically in the early afternoon until evening, sunset or so." Rachel happily supplies the information.

I respond back to Ness finally, "We'll see Ness, I'm not sure yet."

I glance over at Lillah. She seems to be puzzling over something, chewing slowly on the chicken. She looks up at me and smiles sweetly, "What are you looking at?"

"Nothing, just glad to see you eating. Hey, can I ask you something?"

Lillah lifts one eyebrow in surprise, "Uh, sure."

"Why did you come here, to the Reservation, last week?"

Lillah tilts her head in question, "Rachel didn't tell you?"

"Hey! I can keep a secret!" Rachel grins.

Paul shrugs, jumping into the conversation, "Not often, but every now and then my woman can keep her mouth shut."

"So," Lillah turns from Paul to look back at me when I speak, "why did you come here?"

"Rachel set up a meeting for me with Billy. I want to bring my class out here to learn about the local history."

Paul chuckles, "Sorry, Lillah, guess I messed that up for you."

Rolling my eyes at Paul, I lean down and whisper to Lillah, "Would you like for me to reschedule that for you?"

Lillah nods, smiling, "Yeah, that would be great. Thanks, Embry."

The remainder of the conversation is light, everyone joking around and laughing. Lillah seems comfortable around my family, which is nice. As the sun finally sets over the ocean, Jared gets up to help Sam light the bonfire. Once it's safe, we all throw away our trash and head over to our respective blankets. Lillah hesitates for a moment, before I offer her my hand, "You are my guest, you can sit with me, unless you really want to sit with Rachel. But I will warn you, she and Paul get frisky under their blankets."

Lillah grabs my hand and follows me, her eyes wide as we pass Paul and Rachel. I intentionally set us a few spots away from those two. On our right is Jared and Kim's blanket; on our left are Sam and Emily. Claire is curled up on a blanket with Quil, while Eli plays happily with Emily. As I get our stuff situated, Lillah sits on the edge of our blanket, talking with Emily and reaching out to touch Eli.

I sit down next to Lillah and Eli giggles, reaching out for me. Emily sighs, picking up Eli and handing him over to me. Emily turns to Lillah, "Do you mind keeping an eye on those two? Embry has a tendency to drop babies. I'm going to help Sam finish cleaning up so we can get to cuddling." Emily giggles then continues on, "Eli might fall asleep before I get back, if he does, just put him in his car seat and cover him with his blanket."

Lillah nods at these instructions; as I scoot towards the middle of the blanket with Eli. Lillah scoots closer, sitting opposite me, her back to the fire. Eli is sitting in my lap, reaching for Lillah's hair. She laughs then looks up at me, "You drop babies?"

"Almost and it was just one time. Emily and Quil over-exaggerate. It was a few years ago, I was playing airplane with Claire and nearly dropped her. Ever since then, Emily won't let me babysit without supervision. I guess she thinks you are adequate supervision." I wink at Lillah, trying to keep the atmosphere light.

Lillah looks over her shoulder to Quil and Claire. "Emily told me the other night that Claire is Quil's imprintee. How does that work? She's so young."

"From what I've been told," I clear my throat, not wanting to give away too much, "the wolf adjusts to the needs of his imprintee. So, right now, Claire needs to feel special and well loved, especially since Eli joined Sam and Emily. Quil has been spending a lot of one-on-one time with her lately. As she gets older, like with Ness, Quil will be more like a best friend, a confidant for her. When she is ready, and only when she is ready, they will transition into the more traditional wolf/imprintee relationship."

Eli is starting to fall asleep in my lap and he whimpers, reaching out for Lillah. "Do you mind?" Lillah asks as she reaches for Eli. I happily hand him over, watching as he settles in her lap. I can't resist, I grab a blanket, and then tug Lillah until her back is to my chest, my legs on either side of her. As Eli's eyes close, I wrap a blanket around Lillah's legs and arms, making sure Eli is covered up.

Lillah leans back against my chest, sighing contentedly. It's easy to imagine Eli as our baby, but I force those images to the back of my mind, choosing instead to just enjoy the moment. I rub my hands over her shoulders, gently massaging, slowly moving up her neck. I massage her scalp before twirling her silky strands around my fingers. In the fire light, her hair blends in; looking like it's an extension of the fire.

Lillah's eyes pop open and she whispers, not wanting to wake Eli, "Ok, what is the deal with your being so hot?"

I suppress a chuckle, "I don't know, what's the deal with you being so hot? By the way, you look lovely today. I forgot to mention that earlier."

Lillah leans forward and turns her head to look me in the eye. She doesn't say anything just looks at me, which makes me a little uncomfortable, "What?"

"Do you really mean that?" Lillah blushes before turning back around.

I reach for Lillah's chin, pulling her face back toward mine. I'm unable to resist brushing my lips over her soft lips. I want to lose myself in her, but remembering everyone around us I pull back. I continue to brush my thumb across her bottom lip, grinning when her tongue flicks over my thumb. "Yes, I meant that, Lillah. You are beautiful. And kind of adorable holding a sleeping baby."

She blushes bright red, looking down at my lips. She looks back up to my eyes before leaning forward, kissing the corner of my mouth then whispering, "Thank you. You aren't half bad yourself."

Lillah settles back against my chest. I return my hands to playing with her hair as she speaks again, "But that wasn't exactly what I meant. Your body temperature, it's like you are running a fever all the time."

"Oh, that." I laugh at the misunderstanding, "Sorry, I forget about it; it's a wolf thing. A natural defense against our enemies, the Cold One's. Their skin is hard and cold to the touch. All of us wolves' run a body temperature about ten degrees warmer than a normal human, around a hundred and eight or so."

Sam and Emily return then. Emily grins at us, reaching to take Eli from Lillah's arms, "He must really like you Lillah, Eli rarely falls asleep in people's arms."

Lillah sighs when Emily takes Eli from her, "He's a perfect baby, Emily."

Emily grins then looks over at me, raising an eyebrow. I shake my head. I know what she wants to ask, but I also know she won't embarrass Lillah. Thank God. Emily rolls her eyes, turning to get Eli settled in his car seat before snuggling up in Sam's arms.

Billy's booming voice can be heard above the crackle of the fire. "Welcome all. I hope you are all enjoying yourselves. Tonight I'm going to tell some of our older legends, the original tales since we have a new friend joining, Ms. Lillah Hunter. If you haven't met her, please, reach out to her. She is a lovely young lady and we are proud to have her join our little group."

Everyone around us claps, a few of the guys giving the wolf call while Rachel and Kim chant her name. Lillah's face once again turns bright red. She lifts her hand in acknowledgment, trying to settle the group down before turning her face into my chest, trying to hide her embarrassment.

I chuckle before bellowing out, "Shut up you idiots, you are embarrassing her. Billy, please, continue."

Billy starts his tale. Once the focus is off Lillah, she pulls her face out of my chest. I rest my head on her shoulder once again, whispering, "Are you thirsty? Rachel mentioned that wine is your favorite, I brought us a bottle, if you'd like some."

Lillah nods, focusing on what Billy is saying. I reach back for the cooler, tugging it closer. Lillah scoots forward, giving me room to pour us each a glass of wine. I hand her a glass and then raise my glass to toast, "To friendship?"

She nods then looks me in the eye, a small smile playing across her lips, "Yes, to friendship."

Lillah's attention returns to Billy's story. I don't like that she isn't sitting with me now. I move forward on the blanket, so I'm almost touching her. I set my drink down on the cooler and cross my legs. I reach over for her, easily lifting her up. I set her on one of my crossed thighs, her legs stretched out across my other thigh. Elevated on my thighs, we are almost face to face. Her eyes are wide and questioning. I shrug, grabbing my glass before placing a kiss on her neck, just below her ear, "You were too far away."

She sighs, leaning her head against my shoulder, "You confuse me, Embry. One minute you hate me, the next minute you are getting wine and telling me I'm beautiful."

"I don't hate you, and you are beautiful. I do wish you hadn't found out about us. You shouldn't have to be burdened with our secret. But, the more I learn, the more I think fate would have made you see us for what we are some other way if it hadn't happened last week."

Lillah nods once then hesitates before asking, "Speaking of last week," she pauses again, almost like she is gathering her thoughts and her courage, "Why did everyone seem upset with you? I understand why they would be angry with Paul, but it seemed like they were mad at you too."

I'm surprised, "You noticed that? Wow, I guess you were more aware of what was going on than I gave you credit for." I set my drink down, reaching for the blanket, pulling it over her before wrapping my arms around her waist.

"Uh, well, I broke the rules when I took you away. I should have taken you straight to Billy or Sue." I'm honest, but cautious not to give too much away. I adjust Lillah on my lap, resting one hand on the swell of her hip. My other hand has a mind of its own, moving from her hip to run along the skin that is exposed between the bottom of her shirt and jacket and the top of her jeans.

"Oh. Why didn't you? Take me to Billy or Sue I mean?"

She's playing with my shirt, like she did last week. It's distracting, especially when I think of pulling my shirt off and letting her explore at will. I clear my throat, trying to stay focused, "I was worried Paul would see you and attack. I took you away so he couldn't see you. So you would be safe from him."

Lillah doesn't say anything. We are quiet, listening to Billy tell the tales of the tribe. My fingers gently brush her exposed skin. I know she is trying to stay focused on what Billy is saying, but the goose bumps I feel form across her skin give her away.

As Billy wraps up his stories, my roaming hand pushes under her shirt, loving the feel of the silky skin of her back against my fingers. After a few moments, I break the silence, remembering something I wanted to mention to her earlier this week. "Speaking of being safe, you need to be careful when you go on your runs. Those woods around your house are great hiding places for any kind of evil, human or otherwise."

She lets go of my shirt, lifting her head to look me straight in the eyes, "Ness said your normal patrols are late night. Rachel said Jacob's patrols are in the afternoon and early evening. When are Sam's patrols, normally?"

"Early morning, starting usually just before sunup, he takes over when I drop off." I shrug, confused by her questions.

She gasps then shakes her head, eyeing me, "It was you."

"What was me?"

"You were patrolling in the early mornings and in the afternoon. All week I felt like something was watching me while I went on my runs. It was you. Why were you watching me Embry?" There is fire in her eyes, she's pissed at me.

I'm shocked she figured out it was me watching her this week. I can't believe she felt someone watching her and didn't tell anyone. "First of all, if you ever feel like someone is watching you, call me. I will be there as soon as possible. Second, I told you I would be watching. Now that you know our secret, it opens you up to danger you don't yet understand. Being around us, our smell will linger on you. The Cold Ones will smell it and attack. You are too vulnerable in Forks alone. Even if the coven up there is a bunch of 'vegetarians', it doesn't mean you are safe from 'friends' of theirs. So yeah, I took on extra patrols from Jake and Sam so I could watch you when you were most vulnerable."

She looks down after I finish speaking, a small "Oh" escaping her lips. A few moments later she looks back up, "I don't have your phone number."

"You didn't get texts from me this week?" I was surprised she hadn't responded, but assumed it was because she wasn't interested.

She shakes her head, then reaches for her purse, pulling her BlackBerry out, "I don't think so."

I hold my hand out, "Give it to me. I knew I should have put my number in here last Sunday when I had the chance."

"You went through my phone? Embry, that isn't cool!" Even though she's complaining, she hands over the phone.

I quickly program my number in, "I didn't go through your phone. I would never betray your trust like that. I just wanted your number. Plus I saw that Rachel was texting you like crazy."

"Now smile and pretend like you like me." I turn the phone around and snap a quick picture of the two of us. I can't help grinning when I review the photo, Lillah is looking at me instead of the camera, but there is a small smile on her face, which makes me grin. I quickly save the picture and hand the phone back back to her, not caring what I look like in the photo.

Lillah takes the phone from me, but she seems tense, like she's frustrated by something and not sure how to continue. I smirk, loving the look of concentration on her face, "Just say what's on your mind, Lillah."

"Rachel didn't ask you to bring me my jacket back. I asked her about it the other night, she didn't even know I had left it at the diner." She puts her phone back in her purse before looking up at me again, "Did you really find my jacket just by my scent? Do I smell that awful?"

I growl low, running my nose along the column of her neck, like I was dying to last weekend. When I reach her ear, I flick my tongue out, pulling her earlobe into my mouth. When I nip at her earlobe, a small moan escapes her lips.

"You smell amazing, like a bouquet of spring flowers. Your scent drives me insane, I swear it haunts me at night. When I was leaving the diner last week it hit me. It was faint, but it was you. I knew you had left, and I doubted you had returned so quickly. Then I saw the coat rack and I knew that had to be it. I'm sorry I lied about Rachel asking me to bring it over. I just didn't think you'd believe me if I told you I had found it. Can I ask you something?"

She seems surprised, but nods. I hesitate before asking, "Were you really dreaming of me?"

"I...um, yeah." Lillah blushes bright pink, the color I dream about every night. She tucks her head under my chin before mumbling, "Just about every night since last week."

I don't say anything. It kills me to think she has been tortured even half as much as I have been by dreams. Maybe I'm not being so selfish after all by us being friends. Maybe we both need this. Maybe I really am just being what my imprintee needs right now.

Lillah slowly exhales then looks up at me, "What changed? Between Wednesday when you wanted to kill me and Friday when you were...um, making out with me?" Her hand reaches up, lightly rubbing against the faint pink marks still on her face from my stubble last night.

I move my hand from her hip to covers hers on her face, then I pull both our hands away from her face to rest in her lap. I place small kisses along the burn marks, "I'm sorry about scratching your beautiful skin. I knew better than to kiss you with all that stubble, but I couldn't resist. You were too tempting to me last night and I've been so exhausted this week, I just didn't have the energy to shave."

"I- I didn't mind." She blushes bright pink again and I chuckle. She pulls her hand out of mine and cups my face, "I kind of...like a little stubble." Lillah looks down at my lips before returning her gaze to my eyes, "You didn't answer my question."

I raise my eyebrows at her admission. I can tell by her color she normally doesn't say things like this. I still can't believe someone hasn't scooped her up yet. But the thought of her saying something like this to anyone else nearly sends me into a rage. She should only tell me what she likes and doesn't like.

I close my eyes. I can't tell her that what changed was I realized I can't undo an imprinting. That I can't ignore an imprinting. That I can't be with anyone else now that I've imprinted on her. Even if I were to accept her as my imprintee at some point, that couldn't be now. She isn't ready to hear that. Hell, she just found out about all of this a week ago. She and I are just now getting comfortable with one another. I couldn't throw this on her. And I don't want to. She is too good for me, I know she deserves better. I won't ever tell her, because I'm sure there is someone out there that deserves her more than I do. Selfishly, I hope he never shows up. But until he does, I want to spend every moment with her that I can.

She is still cupping my face when I open my eyes, her fingers sliding back and forth over my cheek. I exhale and try to explain, "I never wanted to kill you, Lillah. Wednesday was difficult for me, and seeing you dressed like that, it sent me over the edge. Then you stood up to me, pointing out that you had figured out my name. It's silly, really. Anyway, I destroyed my clothes that day, I was so upset over the whole situation that I phased as soon as I hit the woods, not even bothering to remove my clothes."

She gasps "Oh" again and I'm surprised. "What?"

"Nothing, that just explains a few things, primarily why you were...not clothed this afternoon. I'm guessing you were so worried that you just...phased back to human form? That's still weird to think about. Please, continue."

I laugh, "It gets easier to deal with, I promise. When you are ready to handle it, I'll phase in front of you, which will make it a little less...weird, hopefully."

Lillah smiles wide, "You would really phase in front of me? I want to see that soon. But back to what changed."

"You are a pushy one. Fine, what changed. I never hated you or wanted to kill you, I just didn't like that you knew. Like I said last week, you are an outsider. But then, now that you knew our secret, you would also be in danger. I was torn, wanting to protect you, but mad that I even had to in the first place."

The hand that had been exploring her back has moved to her side, my fingers approaching the sides of her breasts. She inhales sharply when my fingers lightly graze her nipple. My other hand moves from her lap to slide along the outside of her jean covered thigh.

"Anyway, basically what changed was after explaining everything to the guys, individually, they all told me it would be easier to protect you if we were friends, if I didn't fight wanting to be around you. And I do, want to be around you. As much as I was upset that you found out, I do like you, Lillah. You are smart, beautiful, and funny."

I laugh sardonically as I give her a bit of complete honesty, "I don't know why someone way better than me hasn't scooped you up yet."

Lillah smiles softly. I can see a few tears threatening to spill over, but she blinks them away. She is choked up when she responds, "I...I like you too, Embry. And you are wrong, it's you who is way too good for me. You sure do know how to stroke a girl's ego. I bet the women you date just throw themselves at you."

I'm surprised by this, mumbling under my breath, "Rachel talks way too fucking much."

Lillah's eyes go wide at this statement. "What?"

"I just mean, Rachel talks way too much. Yes, I have dated a few women over the years, but I'm not seeing anyone currently. Well, other than the beautiful woman I see right in front of me now." I grin, hoping this will relax Lillah.

She smiles sweetly then pulls her bottom lip into her mouth, thinking. I give her a moment to think through whatever her next question will be. While she's pondering, I'm proud of myself for resisting the urge to kiss her, to get her teeth to release that lip so I can suck it into my mouth. However, my hands are still wandering her body, the fingers on her thighs inching over a little more with each pass along her thigh.

"Um...I know we are friends, but, just in case something were to change...since you've dated women in the past...um...have you been tested?"

I do my best to contain my laughter, "My God, what did they tell you? That I'm some kind of wolf whore? Yes, I'm clean. I always use protection. But really, don't believe the rumors."

Lillah again blushes, "Yeah, but, what about the mind sharing. Wouldn't the other guys know about, your, um...?"

"For the most part, I don't share a lot with the other guys. I'm a pretty private person and I'm usually able to control my thoughts, even in wolf form."

I'm trying not to laugh, but I'm surprised by how much she knows, or thinks she knows, about me already. She must have been really pumping the other ladies for information. Which is surprising, because Emily, Kim, and Rachel didn't tell me any of this. Guess they are keeping some secrets themselves.

"What about you?"

Lillah's head shoots up at this question, "Huh?"

"What about you, have you been tested?" Before I can finish my question, she is already turning bright pink.

"Um, yeah, totally clean, no worries." She looks away. I wonder what she is hiding, but decide now isn't the time to press that topic.

I take a moment to look around at the other couples. I can tell everyone is lost in their little worlds. Lillah yawns against my neck. "Are you ready to go home?"

"No, I love it here, I want to stay as long as possible." I would believe this but she yawns again. I move the cooler back to the corner of the blanket. I pull Lillah off my lap. She frowns, but smiles again when I lay on my side, stretched out. I pull the blanket up that had covered just her, opening it as an invitation. She quickly scoots under the blanket. I roll over onto my back, so she can rest her head on my chest.

Lillah curls up against my side. I can't resist the need to feel her silky skin again. I pull her up just a little, so half of her body is against mine. I feel her nipple pucker against my chest and I groan. I slide my hand under her shirt, unhooking her bra like I wanted to last night. She lifts her head to look me in the eye, "What are you doing? Everyone will see."

"Trust me, no one is paying attention to us." I slowly move my hands back out from under her shirt, then make the same trip back up, this time pushing her shirt and bra up with my hands.

When I cup her breasts again in my hands, it sounds like Lillah is purring. Lillah glances at me then whispers against my chest, "Can I- I want to- touch you- please?"

Pushing back from her slightly, I quickly pull my own shirt off, then, looking around to make sure no one is watching, I tug her jacket, shirt and bra off too. I push Lillah until she is on her back, then pull the blanket up over my shoulders while I hover over her. Careful not to put my weight on her, I rest my elbows on either side of her head before sinking lower until the top half of our bodies are flush with one another.

Lillah moans against my throat, pushing her chest up to meet mine. I slide my hands into her hair, tugging her face until she looks at me. "Never doubt how beautiful you are, Lillah," I whisper before pressing my lips against hers again.

She is not shy tonight, sliding her hands down between our bodies, as her lips mirror mine. I slide my tongue into her now open mouth. Her tongue eagerly flicks against mine.

I break our kiss, her nipples against my skin too much of a temptation. I need to taste all of her that I can. I kiss down her jaw, over her neck and chest until I reach her amazing breasts. She whimpers when I pause to appreciate their beauty, "Embry, please."

"Please what, Lillah? Tell me what you want."

She opens her eyes, her skin pink when she speaks softly, "Your mouth- oh, God, you know- um, on my- breast."

"As you wish," I lean forward again, taking one nipple into my mouth. Her hands grip my hair, pushing me down further on her breast. I reach for her other nipple with my hand, rolling that peak between my fingers as I tease the nipple in my mouth. I suck it further into my mouth then swirl my tongue around it, which makes Lillah purr some more. When I gently press my teeth down, Lillah jerks her chest up off the blanket, moaning deep in her chest.

I let her tug me back up to her lips by my hair. My tongue is once again playing against hers when I hear a throat clearing. It's Billy, "The fire is dying down, I recommend you take the children home that have passed out and move whatever you are doing to your bedroom. Good night all."

I chuckle at Billy's message. I would feel embarrassed, but I know Paul and Rachel have done way more than what Lillah and I were just doing. Hell, they are probably fucking right now.

Of course, Lillah doesn't know this. "Do you think Billy knew?" She is trying to calm down, but her chest is still pressed to mine. Every time she takes a breath, her breasts are teasing me.

"No, Billy didn't know," I reassure her before quickly reaching for her shirt and jacket, tugging them back over her head. I slide her bra into my pocket before pulling my shirt over my head. I help her to stand up, wrapping the blanket around her while I clean up. Quickly folding the tarp back up, I toss it over my arm and pick up the cooler. I look at Lillah and realize, now that the sexual energy has left her, she is yawning again, barely able to keep her eyes open.

I pull Lillah against me, waving to a few of the guys. I don't tell anyone bye, just wave. My focus is on getting Lillah home before she passes out. "How about I give you a ride home? I can bring you your car in the morning."

Lillah digs in her purse and hands me a set of keys, "You've been nice, you can drive Candy and me home."

I help Lillah to the car, tucking her in the passenger seat of her Camaro. I put the tarp and blanket in my truck, then put the cooler in the truck's bed. Returning to the Camaro, I push the driver's seat back as far as I can then slide into 'Candy'.

Lillah mumbles sleepily, "You do know how to drive a stick, right?"

"No worries, I know how to handle a stick," I grin as I pull us out of the parking lot towards her home. I have to bite my tongue to keep from saying something crude. Lillah leans her head against my shoulder, wrapping her hands around my arm as I drive towards her house.

As I pull up to her house, I look up at the visor and realize there is a garage door opener up there. Crossing my fingers, I push the button. Automatically, one of the doors starts opening. I pull the Camaro in, glad the light isn't too bright in here. I move Lillah's head from my shoulder before sliding out of the car. I push the button on the remote again and the garage door closes.

Walking around to the passenger's side, I easily pull Lillah into my arms. I walk toward what I hope is an open door to the house. Thankfully, it is, and I walk into the kitchen I saw last weekend. Heading toward the living room, I walk down the small hallway instead, which I'm guessing leads to Lillah's room, based on what I saw last week.

I gently place her on the bed. I intend to leave, phase and run to my truck, but she moans my name. She's still sleeping, but I can tell she is about to wake up.

Making up my mind on the spot, I pull my sand covered t-shirt and jeans off. I reach for her jacket, t-shirt and jeans, easily tugging them off. I pull the covers back and tuck her in, trying not to pay attention to her bare tits and the lacy underwear that covers her lush ass. I slide under the covers easily. Lillah rolls over against me, sighing in my chest as she buries her nose against my shoulder. I wrap my arms around her waist and inhale her sweet scent.

I mean to only make sure she falls back asleep, but as soon as my head hits the pillow, the scent of her surrounding me, the feel of her soft body next to mine and my exhaustion from the week hit me. I'm gone before I even realize it.

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A/N: It looks like our favorite stubborn-ass wolf is finally going to get a good night's sleep! We love to hear from our readers, so please click that little review button and let us know what you thought. We will reply back!