Wounded

Chapter Ten

Alert: There's somewhat of a lemon, just not outright sex. You can skim over the details if you wish, or skip that part.

Leah's point of view

"Please?" I begged for the hundreth time that night. "Can we just skip it?"

Jacob chuckled, nuzzling his nose into my neck as we laid under the covers in my bedroom; the moon having overrode the sun, taking precedence in the sky, finally. It seemed the day would never end and I wasn't sad that it had.

"No," his warm breath breezed against my neck, causing me to fight back a shiver; a phsyical response. "As much as I'd love to tell you we could, I don't think it would be a good move."

"A good move?" I asked, my brow furrowing as I propped myself up on my elbows. I looked down to Jacob, frowning. "A good move," I repeated. "A good move. Because they do so many good moves, right? They kill people with their radiating joy. Everyone loves them."

I was trying to be sarcastic, but the sad reality was that everyone did love them... Except me.

Jacob sighed, also propping himself up. "Leah, seriously..." He shook his head. "Just try to forget about them. Just for now. You don't need to constantly think about Sam and Emily or the wedding right now; just yet."

"It's a week away," I whispered softly, staring off into the darkness that was my bedroom. I could vaguely see my shadow in the mirror directly across the room thanks to the moonlight streaming through the ajar blinds.

"A week before you have to deal with it, Lee-"

"No, Jacob," I said sharply, turning back to him. "The bachelor/bachelorette parties are in a few days and then the wedding rehersal is the night before. This whole week is going to be about this stupid wedding."

"What's really bugging you?" Jacob pried, his voice gentle and understanding. "You can talk to me, Lee."

I studied his features and bit my lower lip, "But us.."

"Me and you... Being together in a sense..." Jacob sighed, rubbing his face. "Just because we hold each other and kiss each other and there's something developing, it doesn't mean I think you can just forget about Sam; I know the hurt isn't going to stop. You've loved Sam since you were freshmen in high school. It doesn't all just go away; the memories; the feelings." Jacob took a breath in, and I waited for him to continue. "I still think about Bella sometimes, Lee, and we only had a few months together. It hurt; a lot. Which is why I know you can't throw away years with someone. I clung to those months so hard, and you're clinging onto memories with Sam, but it gets better. I promise. Just get it out; talk about it. I'm here to listen. Always."

Jacob's monolouge made a lump rise in my throat. I looked away from his smoldering eyes so I could catch my breath; train of thought. I hadn't actually tried to tell Jacob how I felt in the long-term sense of things. But that means he may not recognized the progress I had made from a few weeks ago, when we weren't close. He had saw my cry and consolled me, but he didn't get a close view at how I felt before. Not something I told him willingly at least; no walls or guard up.

"I'm scared," I admitted gently. "Above everything else, really. When you're not around... I'm scared. Scared of crying again, scared of feeling hopeless, scared of the numbness coming back." I couldn't look at him as I spoke. I couldn't tell him how scared I was - of myself. Really, who in their right minds were scared that they would go numb? Then you couldn't feel anything. Really, it seemed like a gift after all the pain you would go through to get to that point. But no. I had learned that the pain was so much better than the numbess. I'd rather be able to feel.

The numbess oppressed you and restricted your air flow, making your limbs heavier and heavier as you fought to take a breath in - a deep breath, causing your chest to heave, and mind to remind itself to keep up the normal function. Everything was so much harder when you were numb; dead. I didn't want it back. Jacob made me feel more alive than I had in months; years, even.

I remembered when I used to be happy. I rellished in those memories. When everything was fun and light-hearted. When I could call my so-called best friend and tell her every detail of what Sam and I were talking about, or considering, or, after a while, what we had done. Emily had been happy for me, but jealous with every word. She wanted the love and happiness I had. I never thought that she would actually take my place in everyone's lives, though. She'd only had few boyfriends, and their connection never went to great lengths like Sam and mine had. She hadn't ever found someone she loved enough to give up everything to them, including her body. Until Sam. Until my boyfriend. Though, I had to remember that it wasn't Emily who chose him, or him that chose her, really. It was fate. The one thing I had detested so much in the beginning. One thing, despite how it may seem, I had begun to accept. It didn't ease the pain, no, but it was easier than continuously blaming myself as I used to.

But Jacob made me feel that way again; happy; light. I didn't always feel dragged out anymore. Only when I was alone. Progress was progress, though.

It was my turn to continue now, and Jacob looked at my expectantly.

"I've been alone for so long. Because he left me. He promised me that he would never leave, but he did. Sam promised me a life and took it all away when he left. For Emily, for God sakes." I avoided his eyes, feeling tears threatening to escape. "I'd sit at home wondering what had gone wrong; why I wasn't good enough for him. After I had given him everything I could give him; my mind, my heart, my body; how you all were right, and I don't deserve him because I'm such a bitch." I paused then, trying to collect myself; my thoughts, and my next words were pained. "He didn't fight for me. He didn't fight for us and maybe he didn't imprint on me because I'm... different. I can't have children, I can't carry on our genes like that. Not yet, not anytime soon until I learn to stop this... animal from literally bursting out. I'm a dead-end and because of that, fate didn't choose me for him." My voice broke and suddenly, tears streamed from my chocolate eyes. Jacob immediately took me into his arms, holding me close and patting my hair.

"Leah..." He breathed after a few long minutes of sobs wracking my frame. "I'd fight for you. I'll always fight for you, and," he whispered. "You are good enough. Maybe you're frozen right now, yes, but you're far from a 'dead-end'. You were too good for Sam; cared too much. First loves are tricky to keep; last. Maybe, in the long run, this is just to make you stronger than you already are. Maybe you're a wolf because you can contribute somewhere in the pack where no one else, not even Emily can. Because you're still linked to Sam in some way even if it's not your way."

That only made the tears harder to stop and easier to continuously replenish whether I wanted them to or not despite my desire to hit Jacob for saying I was still linked to Sam. But that wasn't the issue right now. Really, that wasn't why dampness side down my flushed cheeks. Jacob was. It wasn't some amazing realization, no. Time and earth didn't move. But there was something else.. A purity; kindness and desire that the world lacked more often than not. There was a knot in my stomach, rising to my throat and I felt so safe right then, that anything could of happened - a full-fledged attack on us from the leeches - and I don't think it would have mattered. "I love you."

Whether my words were friendly or more than, I didn't know. I did love him, though. I may not be in love with him yet, but I couldn't fight the fact that I was falling and each and every time something sweet flowed from his lips, the height grew shorter and shorter and I was closer to bottom. Everything was changing, I felt it. Not in a out of the universe kind of way, but more so... Us. We were changing. We were both becoming whole again. Not necessarily the old us, no, but, well, a better version of ourselves. Stronger and less fragile.

"Leah?" My door creaked open before Jacob had time to respond.

My mom entered the room, frowning as she looked at me. "What's wrong?" Her question was more directed to Jacob.

"Nothing," Jacob breathed, slightly dazed. I felt his gaze on me, but then, he shifted his eyes to my mom. "She's just... upset about the wedding. You know."

My mom nodded and came over, placing a hand on my shoulder as I buried my face into Jacob's chest. "Baby girl... You're going to be okay. You know that, right? You have so many people around that want to help."

I nodded, closing my eyes and licking my lips as I took soothing breaths in. "I know." My words were muffled by Jacob's t-shirt and then, things were silent.

My mom shared a glance with Jacob and he nodded. "I'll take care of her. I love her, Sue."

Woah.

"Love her?" My mom asked, a little harshly. "Jacob, you know I like you... but do you think you should be doing this right now?"

"Uh," he said softly. "I don't follow.."

"She's got a lot to deal with already," she said gently, as though I wasn't in the room.

"I love him, too," I interupted. "I said it first."

My mom studied us both for a long moment, and I hadn't even looked up to her before I spoke. She saw the tears on my cheeks, but she gulped. "Leah... I don't want you getting hurt; either of you. You didn't..."

She didn't have to finish it.

'You didn't imprint.'

Neither of us had...

"I'm going to take care of her," Jacob said gently. "Whether or not that is a factor. We love each other, but it doesn't have to amount to anything sexual... romantic, or anything. Not until we're both ready. I'm only looking out for her best interest, Sue. I promise. I won't hurt her. I just want to be there for her, especially with everything coming up."

My mom frowned. "Jacob, I wish I could believe you. Your heart is in the right place, but I've heard that before. I'm glad that you care for Leah, but if it happens," It, we both knew, meant imprinting. "None of that will matter." She paused, though. "But you being there for her is all I, her, or anyone, really, can ask right now, so thank-you."

Jacob nodded. "I know, but,"

Mom sat on the edge of the bed, and Jacob sat up, leaning against the headboard, arms still tightly wound around me as though if he let go, I would break into a million pieces.

"But?" My mom asked gently, taking his hand. She may be skeptical of me, or either of us getting hurt in the long run, but she was still caring and she still cared what we both felt right then in that moment. Maybe because it was the first time she say me remotely happy, or well... at ease in a while. Either way, I could tell she knew Jacob meant everything she said even if it was only for right now.

"I think there's something different, here. It doesn't feel like what I've saw and felt of imprinting, but there's something... more. Something that I don't know how to describe."

My mom raised a brow. Though, didn't look too far into his words. She kissed both of our cheeks. "Be careful, both of you, okay?" She said, resigning.

We nodded and Jacob pulled me into his arms as she left, closing the door behind us.

I gulped and then, looked up at him. He loved me. I couldn't help but to lean up and place my lips to his in that moment and his soft lips molded to mine. They moved together for a long moment and then, my fingers were inching up his abdomin's flesh, under his shirt, pushing it up further and further as our kisses grew more and more feverish on the others.

A soft moan escaped my lips after I got his shirt off and his lips were on mine again, his tongue pushing past the barrier, into my mouth, moving with mine. His fingers moved from their resting spot on my hips, up the natural curve of my body, to my own shirt. In only seconds, we were pulling back to get it off; get closer, and Jacob's fingers were at the button of my jeans. I felt my core starting to burn slightly; aching for his touch. Just like it had at the cabin, though more of an... emotional spin on things.

I felt my own fingers frantic to undo his shorts and then, we were both trying to get the others pants off in record time. Once down to the essentials, I curled closer to him, our bodies air-tight as our lips frantically searched for more; for meaning; for the love that was burning in and between our bodies. Then, I felt Jacob lay us back down easily, side by side, curled close. The hand resting on the curve of my hip slipped down to my panties and he moaned when he felt the dampness that was growing in the juncture of my legs. I couldn't supress my own moan, however, as his fingers touched me, even through the fabric. I knew we should stop; we both knew it. Mom and Seth were downstairs. But it was like this was bigger than the both of us.

Jacob hesitantly moved his hand up, and slipped it under the waistband of my panties, his fingers both gentle and yet rough at the same time; eager. My eyes rolled back slightly, lids shut tight as my kisses grew sloppier as lust rolled through me. Lust and love, both.

"Jacob," I half-whispered and half-moaned as the tips of his fingers pressed against the small bundle of nerves up front, moving his fingers in slow circles. I edged my lower half even closer; as closer as I could get so I could get more of his fingers; more of him. It had been so long; too long since I had been close with anyone I cared for and I did care for Jacob. I loved him in many ways and everything, though still hard, was put to the back of my mind for the time being.

"Lee," he groaned in response, chuckling softly as his kisses moved from my lips, to my jawline, lower yet to my neck, and then my collarbone before working his way back up, his fingers slowing even more, causing me to arch my back slightly, trying to push them closer; faster against my tender spot.

"Eager, are we?" He breathed on my cheek, moving his way up to my ear, kissing me below my lobe and back down again to my collarbone.

I groaned and squirmed under his touch and then felt his erection pressing firmly against my thigh. Momentarily, I tried to let go of my own esctacy and then, I managed to move around his hand, and slip my own into his boxers. He let out a small gasp, his lips faltering on my neck. I wanted to show him everything he had never experienced before; everything I could make him feel and make him yearn for and with the sudden burst of confidence and raise in libido, I stroked him, lacking in neither girth or inches. I felt like I could never get close enough to him.

Jacob's moans came out each one seconds after the other, and then, he hesitantly pressed a finger into me and my moans followed, both of us trying to fight them back so that no one would hear. I continued stroking him, wrapping my whole hand around him, moving up and down his manhood, his moans never stopping. Jacob felt me a little, moving in slowly, and back out before deciding to slip another finger in, his thumb rubbing my nerve endings. My body then lit on fire, my hand moving faster on his erection, his fingers hitting me deeper. The love and connection and closeness was still there, but right then, we were both fighting for the others release. To be the one to make the other lose it.

Jacob's free hand ripped my panties completely off, then, and as his fingers moved faster and harder in me, my whole body quivered and ached, my hand never slowing in it's own motions as Jacob slipped his tongue back into my mouth, probably in attempt to muffle ourselves. Though instead of letting it tangle with mine, I sucked on it, trying to bring him to release as I twisted my hand slowly before quickening the pace again, always changing the motions. I imagined Jacob inside of me, replacing his fingers and each time they made me moan, I felt closer and closer to finally releasing the pent-up energy dying for an escape. Jacob's free hand moved from my shredded undergarments to my bra, finally removing it completely as he threw it to the ground. His own passion had definitely kicked in. I opened my legs even more, giving him more access.

I then realized that really, this was his first sexual experience and I tried to focus more on his pleasure than my own. That proved difficult, however, as his lips enclosed my hard nipple, sucking on it, and his tongue moving around it in a circle. I bit my tongue to prevent myself from crying out, every sensitive part of my body stimulated and on fire; burning.

I moved my hand continuously on him though, around, up, down, and as he started sucking on my other nipple, I felt my release hit me like a ton of bricks, his fingers just having changed motion on my sweet spot and hitting me all the same time. I hastily shoved my face into his shoulder, orgasming for the first time through this stiumulation. Jacob, as his fingers continued hitting me hard, found his release as well, and my body thrashed against his, trying to muffle my moans with his bare chest. I squeezed my eyes shut, my whole body tensing, spasming gently as the heat spread from my tightened sweet spot, into my limbs, the warmth and feeling of euphoria overwhelming me.

I continued to pump him and he moved his fingers inside of me, adding a third, slyly, as we came. Jacob was shaking softly and I heard his moans catching in his throat, making them deep and sexier than ever. I rode my orgasm out, trying to make it as long as possible, ecstacy still coursing through me.

Jacob slipped his fingers from me and I released him, warm, sticky liquid coating our hands and legs. The loss of his fingers felt emptying, but I was satisfied. We both steadied our breathing, Jacob's hands resting on my hips, mine, up a little further as I closed my eyes, inhaling his scent. The faint scent of cologne mixed with sweat and bodily fluids was sweet and intoxicating.

If I had thought my most vulnerable state with him was me opening up to him a half hour ago, I was proved wrong. I was completely open right then to everything. I was more vulnerable than he had seen me, yet he just kissed my forehead, pulling me closer, molding our frames together.

"Leah..."

"Get some rest," I breathed softly.

He didn't listen, though, and he kept his arms wrapped tightly around my waist, holding me close to him, our eyes boring into the others. "That..."

But there were no words that passed between us. Just one, intense look and I nodded. "I know," I said, kissing him quickly. We didn't say anything else and just closed our eyes, drifting into a dreamy haze.

After the night Jacob and I got caught up in each other, everything went back to normal. Well, not quite. Jacob had to patrol the morning after, so he left hesitantly after kissing me goodbye at the door. My mom hadn't said anything to me in relevance to our moment the night before, so I assumed she was as clueless as I prayed she would be.

The next two days went fast, Jacob coming over just before the bachlor and bachelorette parties three days later.

He knocked on my ajar door before stepping over the threshold, into my room. I turned to face him, scanning over his frame to see a half-buttoned up dress shirt with light blue-pin stripes standing out over the white base. He wore dark jeans with it, dressing it up slightly, but still in a comfort zone. I had reason to believe his shirt wasn't completely done up because of the warmth it retained and had no resemblance to where he was going tonight. Which I still didn't know. He had on a pair of black dress shoes, and I had to admit, he looked good; as pollished as I had ever seen him. It was a refreshing change.

Me, on the other hand, also was slightly dressed up, though it wasn't as refreshing. Before Jacob had come in, - everyone was meeting at Sam and Emily's, and then we would part from there. I had been standing in front of my full-length mirror attached to the wall beside my dresser. I had on a pair of black, cotton, dressy shorts that fit me like a glove, accompanied by fishnets. On top, I wore an animal print mesh top designed with a front knot and decorative buttons. It was a dark blue overall, but all the cheetah spots were outlined with brown and were colorful on the inside ranging from red to green. Black heels adorned my feet and although the look wasn't too out-there, it was subtly sexy in it's own, baby-doll way. My shoulder-length hair fell straight as usual against my moms pleas to have curled it.

La Push's weather wasn't exactly hot right now. Summer was coming to an end qucikly and it never hit any extreme temperatures. The humidity was still threatening destruction on our small town, though. The weather was generally the same year-round. Humid; deadpanned except for the small snowfalls we had in the Winter, therefore, my outfit wouldn't be too skimpy for a cool evening. It was actually supposed to be warm and sticky tonight. The less, the better, especially with my heightened temperature.

"You're sexy," Jacob whispered into my ear after having closed the space between us, wrapping his arms around my waist and pulling my close.

I rolled my eyes, but smirked as I wrapped my arms around his neck, our lips meeting for a brief moment. "You're not too bad yourself," I murmured before he released me.

He grinned, but then his face turned more serious. "You're my trooper," he murmured.

"I'll be fine. Rachel's there," I pointed out.

He nodded, "I know. I still worry about you, though. I know how much Emily can get under your skin."

"Doesn't she always?"

Jacob chuckled before kissing my cheek and taking my hand. "Ready?"

Then, we left the house after my mom kissed me goodbye and told me how grown up I looked. Jacob drove us over to Sam and Emily's and for a split second, I considered just asking him to stay with me. Or for both of us to hurry off to safety together, but as he parked in the driveway, I knew there was no turning back now and he couldn't stay with me. It was a girls night, something I wasn't so good with. But I had Rachel, as I said before. Things couldn't be that bad, right?

I took a deep breath in before getting out of the car. Everyone else seemed to already be inside as we stepped in the house, the guys joking around and the girls waiting patiently for them to leave so we could start our girls night. Jacob was ushered away from me as soon as the guys realized he was there, but not before he kissed my cheek. Rachel had come to get me as well, pulling me into the living room with the others. All of their outfits were like mine; sexy, but also classy. Rachel wore a knee-length, black dress that showed a little excess clevage and a pair of heels, Emily simply wore a white tank-top with 'Bride-To-Be' on it in cursive, black dress pants and simple black flats. The other girls who had also been at the dress fitting followed suit.

"We're going up to mom and dad's cabin," Rachel said gently.

Up until then, I had expecting a beach party while the guys went off and did whatever they had planned - probably a bar or strip club. Then again, I didn't really know what Sam was into anymore. Having imprinted may of tamed his wild wide more than I thought. A strip club may very well be against his good-boy standards. Good-boy... I almost laughed. I hadn't been able to get it out of Jacob, though, and part of me feared knowing meant worrying that he would run into a new girl and imprint on her, too. The bitter, ugly part of me. The one that was still hurt looking at Emily's portruding tummy; the one that had almost faltered having seen Sam when I first walked in.

"Oh?" I said.

"Yeah, it's the easiest place. We've got plenty of alcohol and penis-straws and food. Oh, and sleeping bags and stuff. Me and you can take my and Rebecca's old room."

I nodded, but one part caught my attention. Two, actually. "Emily can't drink? And penis-straws?" I couldn't help but crack a smile. "You guys went all out."

Rachel smirked. "You know it, and, yeah, but she wanted us all to have a good time and play some games and stuff with it if we want."

I nodded, glad. "I'm going to need some alcohol in me to get through tonight," I muttered only half-jokingly.

Rachel rolled her eyes but grinned. "We'll have fun, I promise."

I nodded, giving her a smile before the guys piled into the living room as well. "Time for us to head out, don't you ladies have too much fun," Paul called, grinning as he strode beside me to face Rachel. He kissed her gently. "Love you, babe. See you tomorrow," he winked at her and she smiled, returning the kiss. "I love you, too. Have fun, but not too much," she threw back at him playfully. "Without you?" Paul asked. "Never." Rachel giggled and I caught sight of Sam kissing Emily goodbye, as well as Jared and Kim.

Then Jacob came over to me, sitting on the arm of the chair Rachel was in, taking me out of my momentary sickened mind frame. He placed his hands on my waist and kissed me lovingly, a heartbeat too long. He brought his lips to my ear. "You'll be fine," he whispered before kissing my cheek as he pulled back. He went to turn, but I took his hand, not wanting him to go just yet. Though the rest of the guys had made their way to the door, and were waiting for Jacob. I knew everyone was watching us, probably thinking among the other imprints that we were the most dysfunctional couple. But right then, I didn't care. I just didn't want him to go.

He turned back and hugged me tightly. I could tell I was making him wry to leave. "I'll be back in a second," he told the guys before taking my hand and leading me out the side-door onto the small balcony, shutting the door behind us. He held me tightly to him again. "Leah..."

"I'm fine," I interjecked quickly. "I just want to stay with you. I don't like hanging out with everyone, especially without you." I sighed, realizing the dependence I had on him and not being very fond of it. But when he was there, his arms around me, seeing Emily and Sam doing the same didn't hurt as much because I was safe.

"I'm going to be back as soon as you know it, okay?" He said with a knowing tone to his voice.

I raised a brow but expected I wouldn't get any other answer. I leaned up and kissed him lovingly. "Alright."

He smiled, kissing my cheek again before we went back inside. The guys left and Rachel gave me a knowing look. "When did you guys get so close?"

The house was quiet, now, and everyone was looking at me. I shrugged. "I don't know."

"Do you love him?" Kim asked, smiling softly.

The question took me off guard, largely because I did love him, but I still had feelings for Sam. Maybe they weren't as strong, but a part of me still thought that this should be my party. "Yeah," I murmured. "I do."

I thought if Emily could throw her arms around me right then without it being horribly awkward, she would of. "That's great, Leah."

I simply nodded. It was the bitterness that decided she wasn't just happy for me being happy, and that she had to be glad I wasn't panting over Sam anymore. Then again, I guessed I would be, too, if I were in her place. But I wasn't and I never would be. Honestly, I wasn't sure if that was a bad thing anymore. Jacob cared more than I could ever ask for. Jacob... He made me happy and safe and sometimes, you had to move on. I finally had someone to move on with.

Rachel grinned. "Just remember, he's my little brother," she said gently. "I don't want any details," she teased.

For some reason, I felt my cheeks warm under their gazes, but rolled my eyes. "Whatever."

They all laughed softly before deciding we should get going. There were two cars, and both had their trunks filled with our overnight bags and other things, including alcohol, games, cards, etc.

Rachel drove and I took the passenger seat, Kim and Claire in the back. Claire's dad dropped her off just before we left, Grace having came over to help Emily beforehand when Claire was napping. There would be things she couldn't hear, of course, but Emily was obviously staying sober, so she could take care of her, and since she went to bed early, - also with Emily after - she wouldn't be around things she shouldn't be. I was pretty sure Grace would also stay sober. If not, she would probably only have a casual drink here and there.

"Mommy said that you're with Jacob, Leah!" Claire cried out half-way through the drive to the cabin.

I sighed, wanting to stray away from topics that involved me and my love life, or whatever you wanted to call it, but she was too cute to ignore. "I am."

"I like you two together," she said freely. "Jacob's nice."

I laughed softly. "Yes, he is."

"Are you guys going to get married, too?" Claire asked innocently.

It took me aback. "I don't know, Claire."

"I think you should. I could be the flower girl, again!"

I let out a small laugh, but had my doubts. Married. After Sam, I never expected I would ever find someone I cared for in any remote romantic attraction, let alone marriage. Especially without imprinting. It would only be a death-sentence; ill-fated. Maybe just being with him was just that; never going to work out. I could only hope, I guessed and for now, I was going to be happy with him.

The car ride was mostly uneventful after that and finally, we arrived to the cabin. We all piled out of the two cars, Rachel, Kim, Claire, Grace, Emily and I and hastily grabbed our overnight bags, Emily's gift, and then went inside. Rachel unlocked the door and then, we were surprised to see a light on in the farthest bedroom. We all entered and locked the door behind us, dusk swiftly approaching.

"Oh my God!" Rachel squeeled, going in to turn of the light.

All of our heads turned to the bedroom, and I briefly paused to the one I knew was Jacob's. The one he and I had slept in together. God, I wished he was there right then, though as two, eerily similar females walked out of the next room, a smile washed over my features. They were holding hands, tears glazing Rachel's eyes.

"Rebecca!" I exclaimed, going over and hugging her.

"Where did the little Leah go!" She asked, laughing softly. The twins were only a little older than myself, but Rebecca was married and living in Hawaii - causing her already dark complexion to deepen, and had a similar parent persona; responsible and put together, just like always.

I rolled my eyes at her words. "I can't believe you came back," I breathed, studying her as I pulled slightly back. Though, she looked identical to her sister, of course, I could still quite easily tell them apart even without the different clothing. Rebecca's face was more baby-like whereas Rachel's was more matured. Then, a thought sprung into my mind, "Does Jacob know?"

Rebecca smiled profusly at my mention of her brother. "Aw, my little brother. No, he doesn't, but he'll see me soon enough. I wanted it to be a surprise so I called dad and figured out when the bachelorette party would be. My husband's gone to the bachelor one, now. Jacob's met him before, so he won't be a complete stranger. I wanted him to get out," she gave me a sly wink.

I wanted to tell her to watch herself; make sure none of the wolves imprint on her. Maybe it was bitterness, or maybe it was just because I didn't want to see her marriage fall apart over a stupid wolf-thing. Either way, with Emily in close proximity, I knew better than to speak up. This was her night and it wasn't my place.

That's when Rebecca left my side, and let go of Rachel's hand, going over to hug Emily and pat her belly lovingly. I felt my stomach churn and looked back to Rachel, who was gleaming. I could only imagine how I would feel if Seth and I were reconnecting after such a lengthy period of time, and although he was my brother, he wasn't my twin. Of course, the two had seen each other multiple times through out the years after they parted, yes, but I knew both would cherish whatever time they had together.

"I can't believe she's back," Rachel murmured as Rebecca made her way to hug everyone.

I smiled gently, "I can only imagine." I could see Jacob's face, now. I could also see the resemblence between the twins and him.

Rachel ushered me into her and Rebecca's old room; two double beds, and told me to place my things on hers. I declined, though, telling her that she should sleep with Rebecca, and spend as much time with her as she could. In the end, I got the second double bed to myself and rejoined the group who had also all claimed a bed.

"It's weird being here," Rebecca said gently to Rachel as Emily and Grace went in to try and settle Claire down. A frown filled the twins features. "Without mom, dad and Jake."

Rachel nodded solemnly. "I know. La Push was so hard to get used to at first. Before Jared."

I raised a brow. "Ever so nurturing Jared?" I joked.

She laughed, rolling her eyes. "He comes across as-"

"A jerk?" I added, smirking.

He thought about that for a moment before nodding hesitantly. "Yeah, he can be. I just... He's totally different around me, Lee."

I gave her a small smile and nodded, not really wanting to get into the depths of her perfect imprint. Then I realized, I finally had someone who hadn't imprinted with me. Rebecca! She had a normal relationship. A relationship, nonetheless, but it wasn't as sickly and sugary sweet as an imprint; fate. Yeah, whatever.

"How's your love life, Leah?" Rebecca asked gently, elbowing me half-playfully, obviously trying to bring some light into the painfully obvious seriousness of it all.

I figured she already knew. When her mom died, she left so abruptly, and well, I had missed her. I grew up with her, Rachel and Jacob. Since Rachel came back, and we had kind of gotten used to one another again, it was easier, yes, but it still wasn't the same. Neither were there when I was going through the break-up, neither really saw me afterward.

"Holding up," I breathed, faking a smile.

Rebecca frowned, taking my hand and bringing me and her sister into the room we had previously claimed. We sat on one of the beds, all three of us, and Rebecca took my hands. She was a lot wiser, she seemed, than the last time we were together. The look in her eyes... Well, it was almost motherly. Comforting in some way. My stomach started to swirl, though and I avoided her eyes.

"I'm sorry I wasn't around when you needed me," Rebecca said gently before Rachel jumped in. "Me, too." They both frowned and Rebecca continued. I didn't know how to respond to that. "Sam chose you, Leah. I know we're supposed to be here, celebrating Sam and Emily's wedding, but.. Well, I always thought it would be yours." She kept her voice low, of course, but the words still sounded sharp and pained to me. "Don't get me wrong, I mean, I love them together. But it's so odd not seeing you with him. I really wish I could make things somewhat easier and if you need anything, don't be afraid to ask."

Her and I had kept in touch after she had left. She heard all about Sam, and all about my love for him; everything. The same was also true for Rachel. Though neither had really heard in extensive detail about the break-up. Rachel only really understood when she, herself, imprinted and was told about the legends, in turn, allowing Rebecca to somehow get around the rules and find out.

It dawned on me, then, that she didn't know about Jacob and I. But hearing Sam's name still made a part of my heart ache. Maybe not all of it anymore, but a part, and even that small fragment was still unfair to Jacob, I knew. I wanted it to go away so, so badly so I could be happy again; move on, but there was always the nagging assumption that it was there to stay. Forever and always. That's what Sam always told me. Maybe I never had him forever and always anymore, but I hoped the stupid promise hadn't be fated as well. I hoped I wasn't always meant to carry around some piece of the past in one form or another.

I nodded, "Yeah." I closed my eyes, pulling my hand back out of hers, rubbing my face. I felt the sting of tears. Not because of anything presently, no, but because I remembered all too well my long talks with them both on the phone, telling them how Sams breath felt on my neck; how his arms were the most comforting thing ever. Like Jacob said, the memories were the worst. Oddly, the hardest to get past; what I had been clinging to to this day.

How with Sam I never had to share the attention because I was his one and only; his everything. The words stung more, now because I really was beginning to get closure. I had to believe in that.

His everything. Now that was Emily and the baby. I was pained, though, more than I expected to be, realizing for the first time in real detail that I was that before; his everything. He really did make me his everything at one point, no matter how things turned out. He had loved me, but that chapter was over. It had to close from both ends, especially mine, since his had long ago; the day he left me.

I felt myself spiralling down again. Without Jacob around, I did frequently. My healing process; moving on was easier when the one you loved was there with you and although I loved Rebeca and Rachel, they obviously weren't Jacob; a different kind of love.

"New topic," I said gently, giving them my best smile.

Rachel smiled softly, winking at me. "Well, Jacob has a girlfriend, now."

"Wh-" Rebecca said before I jumped in.

"It's not labelled!" I said softly, right as Emily came back in.

Grace was still trying to get Claire down, apparently, but she had wanted Emily to join the fun and Kim also entered, having been with them earlier as per request from Claire. Or demand, rather.

The both found a place on the bed, and I was surprised it hadn't broken under all of our weight; five girls. One, pregnant. I tried to push that away whether it be for my old yearn for children, or because of who the father of her baby was. I didn't know what to feel anymore, but, Rebecca didn't let me ponder that too long.

She seemed to be putting it together. "You and Jacob? When did that happen?" She half-teased, though I could tell she was slightly stunned.

I sighed, avoding all of their eyes as I picked at my nails. I shook my head quickly, rolling my eyes. "It's not labelled."

Kim grinned, "The way you talk about him. You get nervous. Leah Clearwater, or well, as much of her as I knew got a lot of things, but not nervous. You guys must be more than 'not labelled.'"

I wasn't letting anyone evaluate me. "Only because after everything, I really don't want to label it, or get in too deep or anything. I'm not doing it again." I paused. "Actually, the sad thing is I know it's going to happen again and I still can't help wanting it."

I didn't look at Emily's face, knowing there would be a frown on it. I knew this was her bachelorette party, but I also knew that she just wanted to be around us all for that. None of the rest mattered. If we sat down, talking about girl stuff all night, she would be happy.

I, on the other hand, just wanted to get my hands on some alcohol.

Bring on the drinking games and shots.

Authors Note:
I really hope you guys enjoyed this chapter! Don't worry, the bachelorette party will continue into the second chapter, and there will be a little twist! I thought bringing Rebecca back - Just for the party and wedding - Would be a cute little bonus, and I wanted to explore her character a little more. I can see her being a little more mature than most for some reason. BUT, that's not why you guys are reading!

Leah.

So, I kind of took a mixed edge to this chapter. Her feelings for Jacob and Sam were really brought out a little, and as she struggles for closure, she's dealing with her intense liking for Jacob. She loves him, yes. That doesn't necessarily mean he's the only one she sees and she's in love with him, yet - Yes, there's a difference - but feelings are evolving. How can you not love someone so sexy as Jacob? ;) And, they're both dealing with demons. Leah much more so, but both nonetheless. I'm going to try and make Jacob's struggles a little more known between now and the wedding. He's not off of Bella so easily, either and I think I need to stop making him take care of Leah so much, and try to deal with his feelings as well, even though I do think he's already gotten to the closure aspect. I think for Jacob, though, it's more so learning how to open back up and really give a hundred percent into it where he's been hurt before. Again, much like Leah.

Nonetheless! I'm going to stop rambling now, and remember, review! Constructive crisicism only, please, and PM me about how you feel about the new Leah/Jacob, Leah/Seth, Leah/Jacob/Seth pictures that are online! Don't know what I'm talking about? Google Breaking Dawn, Leah, Jacob, and Seth and hopefully you'll find them! I lala love them. Fan girl moment. 3

Review, PM me, knock yourselves out, even if it's just to ramble about the new upcoming movie! I'd love to hear your thoughts!

- Dramaticfield