Chapter 11 Hidden Secrets and Dates

After a speedy call to Conner, to tell him where I was, and after programming Paul's number into my phone, me and Melody talked.

At first she rolled down the windows and turned on the car's fans. She told me that I smelt a little werid and it would help to get rid of the stench.

But I knew that she was just trying to get rid of the vampire sent Paul had put all over me.

And she didn't really talk. More like whined about how she was going to look single because Timothy didn't go to Forks High. And about how me and Paul's 'gushing' (as she called it) in the parking lot had cut into her and Timothy's time.

I smirked.

Of coarse what she didn't know is that the whole reason Timothy was never around was because he had to patrol with Sam and the others.

After a while we ran out of things to talk about. We'd already covered that we were from now on going to be best friends and act like we lived at each others houses (well she flat out basically told me I had to on that). But I didn't mind. I had only had Conner as a brother and I wouldn't mind having a sister. And by the looks of it, Melody was the best I'd get. And to tell you the truth she wasn't that bad. Other people might think she's rude and has weird mood swings - but to me that's just Melody. And I reall didn't care. To me she was a great best friend.

I didn't want to be rude about the whole house thing - I mean I wasn't really saying much, just nodding my way through it - so I offered that we spend the night over each others house.

Well, that wasn't one of my greatest ideas.

"OHMYGOSH! Your totally right! It'd be like we're living together." she blabbed out excitingly. "We could spend the night over each others house like three days out of the whole week. We should make two school day sleep-over's and one weekend sleep-over so we have our space and don't get sick of each other." she planed.

To anyone else this would be annoying. Well it was a little bit to me. But still, it wasn't as bad as she was making it sound. Infact this was just one of the many faces of Melody. She could be cool and calm or really hyper and excited. Or she could be a little rude and impatient.

"But lets start this all next week." I said tiredly (I had a long day). "I still need to get settled in and get used to my house again."

She nodded in understanding.

We pulled up to the house and she frowned.

I looked down at my phone. I don't think I'd ever find a safe moment to talk to Paul here. But I could always text…

"If I know Paul - which I do - he'll be waiting for your call like crazy." Melody said. Bringing me out of my deep and worrying thought.

I smiled and nodded. Grabbing my stuff from her back seat.

"Bye, Mel!" I squeaked as I got out of the car.

WAIT! My mind told me to stop. How was I supposed to get a hold of her again?

I looked back in the car.

"Melody? Could I have your cell?" I asked.

She smiled widely. "Of coarse," she wrote it down and handed it to me. "By the way, if your gona call me Mel, then I'm calling you Shelb and Sis." she said like it was a bad thing.

"Okay," I chuckled as I closed the door and walked up to the front porch.

"Bye, Mel!" I yelled as she pulled away.

"Bye, Sis," she yelled back with a wink. Then went speeding down the road.

* * * * *

Conner wasn't home when I came in so I went straight into the kitchen for a snack, then went upstairs to do my homework.

I knew it was weird and wrong but I lied to Paul and Melody when they asked me about it. They asked if I was done (because for some reason they really wanted me done with it) and I said yes. But the weird part was because the only reason I said yes was because I wanted to do it at home.

Wow, I sounded like such a goody-to-shoes. I lied about not doing my home work so I could do it later… and I thought that was wrong? Most kids would lie about doing their homework, then not do it at all. So I needed to stop being such a 'Sorry-Sally'.

When I was done I programmed Melody's number in my phone and then I heard the sound of two footsteps. And as I headed downstairs it wasn't hard to figure it out who it was. Because I could hear their thoughts.

God, I'm starved. Conner's thoughts rand through. Obviously his stomach was acting as his brain again.

Wonder how thing went today at school for Shelby. Sam's thoughts were loud and clear as well and considerate.

Conner was walking over to the refrigerator as I came into the kitchen.

"Hey, guys!" I said happily.

"Hey!" they said in unison.

Sam gave me a big hug, then sat me down. "How was your first day, short stuff?" he asked making fun of my height.

I plainly hit him in the stomach. "Its not my fault that gravity likes me better." I said playfully. "And today went pretty good actually."

Conner came out of the fridge with a large apple in his mouth. He took a huge bit out of it and gave me a hug. "Pretty, good doesn't sound as good as it should." he said like he knew that I'd been crying earlier. Coming right out of his hungry teenager mode and back into his over protective brother mode.

I gave him a weird look. But then realized they weren't supposed to know that I knew. So I shook it off.

"Well it's a heck of a lot better than, plan out horrible." I said bluntly.

Conner rolled his eyes. "Okay, whatever. You had a good first day. Yay!" he said mockingly.

Yeah okay. So her first day was sooo much better because she went to Forks, then it would be if she went to LaPush. His thoughts obviously sarcastic as well.

And yet even though I'd had a okay first day in Forks he still wanted me to go to LaPush.

I sighed. "I'm done with my home work. So I'm gona go for a walk." I was about to walk out the door when I seen Conner give a glance at Sam.

There was nothing in the forest I hope. Conner's thoughts sired.

Sam shook his head.

Obviously they couldn't read each others minds now while in human form but they could tell by facial expressions.

"Okay, I'm going now," I said warningly to Sam and Conner so they wouldn't freak out.

Sam nodded to me. "Bye,"

I looked to Conner, knowing he had something to say. "Be back at 6:00 or call me to tell me your having dinner with someone else if you are. Because I'm ordering take-out at 5:40 and it will only take them twenty minutes and if I can I will eat all of that food."

I laughed. And nodded.

"I'll call to check in!" I yelled as I walked off the porch.

I walked along the edge of the woods and began texting like crazy. I missed Paul so much and this walk was the perfect chance to text him.

I really hoped Melody was right about Paul waiting for a text or call. Because this was the best I could do for now.

(Shelby & Paul)

Hey. Its me. Shelby. I felt odd just saying it was me. He could be waiting for who know who else to call him or text.

Hey! How are you?

I giggled at his wondering. I'm fine. Its not like I get mood swings all the time. I joked.

Haha. Yeah I no. I was just wondering. So wat r u doin?

I smiled. Well I'm walking. And talking to you.

LoL. I didn't no u were talkin to me. When did that start? Because obviously I missed the memo - I'm still textin.

I laughed. Haha, very funny. So wat r u doin?

I stepped over a rock and almost tripped. God, who knew it was hard to text and walk at the same time?

Talking to my girlfriend. He replied.

I squinted my eyes. It'd be fun to mess with him. Really? Do I get to meet her? I'd love to meet the most wanted girl in the school. Maybe I can get some pointers. I couldn't help but laugh as I sent it.

HAHA! Sure you get to meet her. But I don't think you need pointers. Have you looked in a mirror lately? You'll see her when you do. I laughed out loud when he answered.

LoL. Really? In the mirror? What did she do steal my image? Or did she tape her picture to my mirror? I asked. Loving our little joking conversation.

I was afraid I might fall so I sat down on a near by rock and waited for his text.

Which didn't take long. My phone vibrated in my hand as I opened it to stop the mini vibrations and read the text.

No she did not steal your image (no one could pull it off like you do ;D). And unless you taped your own picture to your mirror then no she didn't. And if your not following this (which hopefully you are) you her.

Gosh. I loved him.

Miss you. V-v I wrote back.

Miss you 2! He texted.

I didn't text back. Not knowing what to say and all. I didn't want to tell him anything to important over the phone in a text.

I'm gona text you in I minute. I got to go hunt. He texted after a few minutes.

Okay, I'll talk to you later.

Love you.

My heart shuddered. He was so sweet! I wish I could just call him now and tell him to come get me. Two problems with that. First, he needed to hunt. Second, LaPush was full of werewolves and he was a vampire.

Love you too. Talk to you in a bit. I texted him.

I got up and walked along the lining of the woods that distanced LaPush from the rest of the forest. I pushed my phone into the confides of my pocket.

What was I going to do now? Just walk? I guess I could, it wasn't like I had anything better to do.

I walked for a while around the boarders of LaPush. But I finally decided that I wanted to see the beach.

I began to walk towards the beach and through the trees on the way there. I always loved the scenery around LaPush. It was so green and mystical, there wasn't a reason not to love it.

I was smiling and just thinking how tomorrow was going to be when I heard it.

Damnit! I smell someone. Jacob's thoughts came through just as clear as Conner and Sam's earlier. But his were frustrated and worried.

What do we do?! The sound of a teenager (more kid like) voice.

Okay, Jake? Do we all phase back or do one of us phase-

WAIT! Jacob's thoughts yelled.

Everyone's thoughts paused. Even my own.

Alright, never mind. It was a false alarm. Its just Shelby. He finally thought.

I was trying hard not to read into his mind. I didn't want to know how he found out it was me.

Everyone mentally sighed.

I silently wondered why they were this close to the houses and phased. I mean come ON! what if someone seen them?!

Okay, I guess that decides it then. Jake we're going home for the night anyways, and we all know you want to hang out with her, so go. Timothy mentally told him.

The other's thoughts were all in agreement.

Fine, see ya later! Jake's thoughts yelled as he ran towards me as he phased.

Why would he even be near here?! I looked around and noticed I was a few yards aways from Jacob's house. Infact I was so close I could see it though the trees.

I sighed. "Why me?" I groaned softly.

I really didn't want any drama right now. So I decided I'd run.

I tried really hard to try to get the sliver of heat to travel down my spine, but it didn't work.

I heard Jacob closer and I panicked. I leaped forward but tripped and landed on my knees.

"Ouch!" I groaned as I inspected the rip on the knee of my new jeans and a deep cut right inside it. "Great! Conner's gona kill me." I whined.

Ohmygod I smell blood! I hope she's okay! Jake's thoughts rang as he hurried towards me.

I gave up just sitting there and inspecting my injured leg.

"Shelby?" he said acting like he didn't know, as he came from behind a thick patch of green.

"Jake?" I said in the same tone.

"Are you okay?!" he asked in a worried tone, as he rushed to my side.

I sighed. "Jake, I'm fine. I just tripped and-"

He interrupted. "Just like Bella," he snorted.

I rolled my eyes. "Jake, I met Bella. Trust me, were nothing alike." I assured him. "We don't even look alike."

He turned serious. "Oh your like Bella more then you think."

I nodded. Not in agreement but to get him to shut up. My head was starting to spin from the heat, humidity and blood loss didn't mix for me.

"Hey, your not looking so good." he pointed out.

"Yeah, I noticed. I'm feeling light headed." I told him.

"We'll get you taken care of," he said then without any warning picked me up into his arms.

I was feeling so light headed that I didn't even make a sarcastic comment about what he'd said.

But as he lifted me vertigo hit me hard.

I gagged. "Jake, please. Put me down!" I whined as I tried not to get sick or faint.

"Just close your eyes - so you don't get sick - and I'll run so we'll be there faster." he said.

I shut my eyes as hard as I could and then felt the air move around us fast. The wind blew in my hair and agents my face. Like sticking your head out of a car window. And I knew he was running in his werewolf/human speed.

It took only a few seconds. "Okay, you can open your eyes now." he chuckled. The expression on my face must have been priceless.

I opened them slowly to see Jacob with a wide, goofy smile on his face.

"What?" I asked.

He didn't say anything but I was beginning to notice that he was only wearing a pair of cut-off shorts. With me in his arms and against his bear hot chest. And my face was close to his. To close infact.

I looked at him with wide eyes, hoping to god he wouldn't try to kiss me again.

He laughed. "Relax! You look like your about to scream."

I laughed nervously.

No, why would I scream? I asked myself sarcastically. Would it be if you kissed me again? Why yes it would!

"Will you please take me inside? Please?" I begged. "My leg really hurts."

He smiled half heartedly.

I was about to thank the high heavens right there when he brought me inside.

He gently sat me down on the couch. "I'll be right back."

I nodded.

He left and headed into the kitchen and around the corner.

He was gone a few minutes when I heard the sound of squeaky wheels agenst the tile floor of the kitchen. I smiled widely when I seen it was Billy. Jacob's father.

I had officially met Billy a few days ago when I first came back to LaPush. And he'd made it pretty clear on how Jacob felt about me.

Not only was Billy Jacob's father but he was also my mother's best friend. Even my mom's mom was friends with Billy's parents. It's like a cycle, we we're all meant to be like best friends. And the only reason I'd never really met Billy (well now I had a day earlier), was because my parents weren't there to introduce us. But obviously no had given Jake the memo(about us only being friends that is).

"Hey, Billy!" I said happily.

"Hey, Shelby. Nice seeing you again," he greeted. "What're you doin here? Visiting Jake?"

I shook my head. "No actually I was headed to the beach when I fell and cut my leg." I told him. "He just happened to find me."

Billy shook his head. "He's always looking after the ones who can trip over nothing but air." he said mockingly.

I laughed. "Yeah, it's a real skill."

"Okay I found the first aid kit." Jacob said as he entered the living room with a small military looking box.

His face looked serious but then he met my eyes and smiled widely.

He knelt down beside me on the floor - while I was still on the couch.

"It doesn't look to deep so it wont need stitches," Jake murmured to himself. "Which is good so no hospital…"

Jacob was thinking of Carlisle as he thought about the hospital. Obviously they all wanted me clear away from any vampires.

I looked over to Billy as Jacob disinfected and wrapped my leg.

"Doesn't look like Jake can say 'hi' does it?" I asked Billy playfully.

Billy chuckled silently. "Not when he preoccupied with something else," he said as he wiggled his eyebrows at me.

Jake chuckled quietly and rolled his eyes as he applied the last bandage-holder in place.

"There ya go," he said happily as he helped me up.

"Thanks," I murmured as I brushed off my pants. My leg not really aching anymore due to some none pain paste Jake had applied to it.

"So what were you doing out there?" Jacob asked curiously.

Um… did I really want to tell him where I was going? I thought. What if he wanted to come with me? I didn't think it was a good idea for him to come to the beach with me. I mean, he liked me. What if he tried to kiss me again? Or something else?

But then I remembered he probably already heard me tell Billy and was just being [polite.

"Actually, I was just going for a walk." I said generally. "Who knew it could be so dangerous." I murmured jokingly.

Billy laughed at my joke. "I didn't either. But for you and Bella it seems to be."

I bit my bottom lip. I didn't like to be compared to Bella. We were totally different people, and I liked being different.

"Well, would you mind if I joined you?" Jake asked.

I didn't answer. And I hoped he didn't take offence or feel bad that I wasn't answering.

"On your walk I mean," he assured. Obviously he'd taken my silence as confusion.

GER! Was there no way around this?!

That's when Timothy busted threw the door.

He was breathing heavily. "Jake!" he heaved. "Sam needs us to go," he looked at me for a second then back to Jake. "Now!"

Jacob nodded all flirting gone. "I guess that's gona have to be a no on that walk, Shelb." he said sadly.

I nodded quickly in understanding and relief. "Alright." I said simply.

I wonder if it'll take very long… maybe if I get back soon enough I can still go on a walk with her. Jacob thought.

I sighed.

"Jake, come on Sam wants us now!" Timothy said quickly.

I nodded. "I guess I'll see you guys later." I said as I headed towards the door. "Thanks for fixing up my leg, Jake. And it was nice seeing you again, Billy."

Billy nodded towards me. "You too, Shelby."

"Wait!" Jake blurted out and grabbed my hand, pulling me back towards the couch. "I'll be right back. I'll see how long it'll take and if it's gona be a while I'll come back to let you know. That way if its only a little errand then I can come back here and we can go on that walk." he said excitedly.

I bit my lip again.

God, she's doing the same thing Bella used to do when she was thinking. This is crazy how much they are alike. He thought.

I quickly let go of my lip. "Fine, I'll wait here." I said stubbornly. "But don't be surprised if I'm not here when you get back." I warned.

Jacob smiled his goofy grin. " I wont. See ya in bit," he said to me. He walked over to the door. "Come on, Timothy."

And then they were gone.

I laid my headed back on the back of the couch.

How did I get myself into this? Yeah, I knew I was born into the werewolf thing, but how did I get caught up in between three guys?! This wasn't how it was supposed to be. I wanted Paul. Not Jacob. Not Andrew. Plus Andrew was a friend. And if I knew Paul - which I did - he still felt like Andrew and Timothy were his friends. No matter how far apart they were. No matter how different they were now.

Another thing was I could hear all of the packs minds and I knew what they were when I wasn't supposed to.

God. I was in way over my head.

"Shelby?" Billy asked, still sitting in his chair in the entrance to the kitchen. I'd forgotten he was still there.

I looked up. "Yeah?"

He looked at me for a moment. "You have heard of the LaPush legends, haven't you?" he asked.

I nodded. "Yeah, the ones about our people descending from wolves?" I asked.

He nodded cautiously. The stared at me for another moment. "You know don't you?" he said with knowing eyes.

My eyes grew wide with surprise.

I didn't know what to say. Would he tell Sam and the pack? If he did what would they do? What would they say?

If I thought I was in over my head before then I must have been six more feet under now.

"Shelby, relax please." Billy asked. "I'm not going to say anything. They'd have to tell you sooner or later anyways; Andrew imprinted on you."

I nodded cautiously. "Believe it or not, I know already."

Billy's eyes widened a bit. "How?" he asked calmly.

I looked down at the floor.

If I thought it was bad telling him how I already knew, it was going to be worss tell him about me.

"I don't think I should tell you." I said quietly.

I looked up at him.

He nodded solemnly taking my answer.

" I understand." he said calmly. Though I knew he didn't know the real reason.

"Thank you. And please don't tell anyone, that I know." I begged.

He nodded again. "Shelby, I wasn't planning to tell them. Its just I've seen that you stress." he said helpingly. "I bet you know bout the Cullen's too."

"Yeah, found out about them yesterday," I said truthfully.

He laughed and shook his head. "No wonder your under so much stress."

"You have no idea," I murmured.

"Well I do understand that you want to just give up and let this all go, and I don't think your brother and the rest of the guys would like that. I don't think anyone would like that." he said wisely.

"What do you mean 'let it all go'?" I asked confused.

"What I mean is give up and let everyone choose for you." he explained. "May I tell you a story, many people of our tribe don't know about it? Only the elders know the story."

I nodded for him to continue.

"You see, the third wife from our old legend went unnamed. The reason was because when she sacrificed herself she was a symbol to all the tribes women that they could be strong without having powers. And they could be as strong as any werewolf." he said.

My eyes grew wide. I was loving his story already. And he had no idea how every word inspired me.

"And you don't have the same inspiration to do what she did - which is good in some ways. Her inspiration was her husband, her four children and our tribe. And you have something in common with her. You are from a family of werewolves and your friends are werewolves, yet, you insist on being around vampires." he explained.

What was he talking about? Now he'd lost me. She loved a werewolf, even had werewolves as children. How were we alike?

Obviously he'd seen my confusion. "Please, let me explain. See the third wife was not from our tribe, she took ours in as her own. And her family was all changed into vampires, even though she wasn't. But this all changed when she was imprinted by a pack member, and then she'd always want to be with werewolves instead of her family." he said ironically.

It was like he knew everything. But how?

"Wow," was all I could say.

"Yes, its quite odd how much you two are alike," he murmured.

Great. I'm alike another person. As if I wasn't bad enough being like Bella. I mean I just wanted to be me. Not everyone else.

"And I wanted to give you something, that the third wife herself, used to remind her of what was important when she sacrificed her life." he wheeled into the kitchen. And a few moments later back out into the living room until he was in front of me.

"Hold our your hand," he ordered.

I did so and he dropped a cold and light object in it.

I pulled my hand closer to my face to inspect the object and gasped at it's beauty.

It was a red gem and black onyx necklace. It was sized delicately with small round and crescent shaped beads. And all the red gems and onyx beads were spaced beautifully. The main bead of the necklace was a large crescent moon and spaced on both sides were smaller duplicates. Making two on each side of the necklace. It was beautiful and it was a old artifact.

"It was hers," Billy said keeping his eyes on the gift. "The four smaller moons stood for her sons and the large one stood for her husband. And the moon itself is a symbol that she gave her old family up for her new one. She was apart of our tribe at that moment. And she cared about our tribe so much that she gave her life for it and her family against something her original family was."

I felt tears puddle in my eyes. "Billy," I said with a straightened voice. "Why are you giving me this?"

He smiled. "Because you need something to remind you, that whatever you decide, you will still be apart of our tribe and you will still have your friends and family."

I felt the tears spill over and down my cheeks. "Thank you," I said with a thick voice.

He nodded affectionately. "Your mother and I were like siblings, and I've always looked at you and Conner as my children as much as your father did." he murmured quietly. "I just thought I'd give you something that could make you feel more like you belong here. And could help you, with any problems you might have."

I bit my bottom lip so it'd stop quivering. "Thank you," I said again.

And I leaped into is arms. Hugging him tightly.

After a moment of shock he finally returned my hug. "You, know that no matter what, you will always be welcome here."

We let ourselves out of the embrace.

"You might want to put that away, so you don't lose that." Billy reminded me as he wheeled himself in the kitchen.

I nodded to myself and fastened the necklace around my neck.

"Are you hungry? Or are you going to take your walk now?" he asked from the other room.

"I think I'll take my walk. I need to think about a few things." I said just loud enough for him to hear.

"I'll see you later then." he called as I walked to the door. It was pretty amazing how well Billy knew me though I just met him a day ago.

"Bye," I called as I left the house.

Wow. I couldn't believe what ad just happened.

For the longest time I hadn't even know Billy. Known of him, but never really met him. And just a few days after I met him were already close enough to be like family. He was like a second dad to me now.

I thought about this as I walked along the beach, twirling the large center crescent, on my newly acquired necklace.

I loved the sound of the waves crashing on the shore and how the sun reflected off the waves. I was surprised that it hadn't rained today. When we used to live here it rained all the time.

Huh.

"Shelby!" someone called from behind me.

I looked behind me to see Melody and Timothy - hands linked - running towards me.

"Hey, Mel! Hey, Timothy!" I yelled from my place. I figured I'd just let them come to me.

Timothy was running faster than Melody - it was obvious that she was slowing him down.

I laughed as Timothy - without breaking out of his run - picked up Melody, threw her over his shoulder and ran quickly over to me.

He stopped a few steps in front of me.

"Put me down!" Melody laughed.

He chuckled and did as she asked.

"Thank you!" she said as she kissed his cheek then leaped at me.

She hugged me tightly. "Shelby!"

I laughed. "Its only been a few hours since I seen you," I chuckled.

"I know," she said as she let me go. "But, me and Timothy are planning to go on a date to the movies tomorrow night and I was wondering if you and your boyfriend would like to come with us? We could have a double date!" she squealed as she relined arms with him.

I giggled. "I don't-"

"Oh, come on!" Melody whined.

"Fine!" I agreed.

"Yay!" she screamed highly.

I covered my ears. "Melody!" I yelled until she stopped. Removing my hands from my ears. "Are you trying to kill me?!" I asked.

She smiled and shook her head. "No, if I killed you then we wouldn't be able to have a double date now would we?"

I laughed.

"Nice necklace." she said breathlessly.

"Thanks, Billy just gave it to me." I said twirling the little center crescent again.

Timothy's eyes watched the crescent with a memorized gaze wile as Melody just nodded.

"Well, we have to go now," she said taking Timothy's hand and gaining his attention. "We're going to Port Angeles to pick out a dress for his homecoming and then a different one for ours." she announced.

"Why don't you just wear the same one?" I asked. "I mean, its not like anyone but Timothy and a few of the guys will notice."

"That's what I told her!" Timothy busted out.

She have me a looked that said 'oh, thanks!' in a sarcastic matter. Then she looked back to Timothy. "The thing is that you will see the difference and I want you to have a sweet homecoming."

He laughed and wrapped his large arms around her. "If you come I already have the perfect date, so it wont matter about everything else." he said affectionately.

She smiled widely. "Aw! That's so sweet!" she trilled. Then her face turned serious. "But that cute stuff is not distracting me. Were going to get my dresses - and the matching crocuses - today so we can get it over with."

He sighed. "Fine," he said in defeat. "Lets get going so we can get back in time for dinner, please."

I laughed. "Bye, guys." I said as they walked away. "Have fun trying on your dresses, Timothy!" I yelled jokingly.

I heard a loud groan from him as they walked away.

I laughed as I continued to walk.

And I started to think more about the gift Billy had given me.

I felt more… empowered. More controlled over myself than what I did before.

And the way Timothy stared at it confused me and made me wonder what was it that made this necklace so special…

* * * * *

As I walked home, after a few hours at the beach I watched my cell phone. Hoping that Paul would text me soon.

I wasn't really paying attention to anything so it startled me when I ran into a warm surface that was as hard as a brick wall. But without the rough feeling. This was smooth.

I shut my eyes tightly hoping that I wouldn't get to hurt when I crashed to the ground.

But I never did.

Then I noticed that that strong, warm arms were wrapped around me so I wouldn't fall.

"Shelby, open your eyes," his thoughts thinking about me the way Sam thought about Emily.

I opened my eyes already knowing who it was. And just to prove me right, there he was.

Andrew.

Uh oh.

I was having the feelings again. Why was it that when he wasn't around all I thought of him as nothing more than a friend, but then when he came around all I can think about is how…cute, and charming, and sweet-

Stop it! I mentally yelled at myself.

Must be the stupid imprint thing. Its messing with my head.

"Shelby, are you okay?" he asked, being concerned about my silence.

I shook my head to clear it. "Y-yeah, I-I' m fine." I stuttered.

He let me go but kept his arms out incase I became unsteady.

"Are you sure?" he asked with a look of doubt.

I nodded. "Yeah, I'm okay."

He nodded in return. "What are you doing out here all by yourself?" he asked curiously.

"I was walking back home." I said simply. " I was at the beach for a while, but I got tired so I was headed back."

And it wasn't a lie. I was tired. I walked - by myself - for at least three hours. And I hadn't even eaten dinner yet.

God I was starved.

Oh crap, that reminded me I had to call Conner about dinner so he wouldn't eat all the food.

"Oh, why don't I walk back with you?" Andrew asked.

I nodded. "Sure. But I hope you don't mind, I need to call Conner."

He shook his head. "Nah, I don't mind. Its cool."

I nodded and as we began to walk I dialed Conner's number.

Yay! Another long, finished chapter! So tell me what you think and tell me your advice or ideas on how you want the story to go. And I'm sorry for it being a bit bland lately. I promise some drama and action WILL come up. So don't forget to review! Thanks and luv you all!

~*~TJL

Chapter 12 The Big Date and… complications?

After a joking conversation with Conner (over the phone) and after telling him the basic where I was, who I was with and etc., Conner assured me that he'd save me some food.

"Okay, thanks." I was about to hang up.

"Wait!" he said quickly.

"Yeah?" I asked confused.

"Ask Andrew if he wants to eat with us. I think I ordered extra an Timothy's busy." he replied.

I nodded. "Alright, one sec."

I pulled the phone away from my ear and covered it with my hand. "Andrew?" I asked awkwardly.

"Hm?" he looked over to me with a curious look.

"Conner wants to know if you wanted to join us for dinner." I said blankly.

He didn't answer right away. He looked like he was thinking. "What are you guys eating?" he asked.

"I think he said he ordered in Chinese food." I said quietly.

He stayed quiet for a few minutes as we continued to walk. And I hoped hed answer soon because Conner was still waiting for my answer over the phone.

Finally looked down at me as he continued to walk. "Do you want me to come?" he asked.

I felt my cheeks go red.

I knew I missed him. He was one of my best friends. But then again it wasn't a good idea to have him around with the imprint and all. I mean, it was affecting me too. And I didn't like to be controlled, and that's what it was doing to my emotions.

I was about to say no when I thought about what would happen. If I said no I'd hurt him. And, I didn't want that. As much as I hated the fact that I was being controlled by a magical imprint, I still didn't want to hurt one of my closest friends. I mean it wasn't his fault. Its not like he could control it.

I nodded. "Yes, I'd like it if you came." I said with a friendly smile. I really hope he'd note it was just a friendly smile.

He smiled at me. " Then I'll come."

I nodded and put the phone back to my ear. "He said he'd come." I stated.

"Well it took you long enough," Conner whined. "I'll see you guys when you get here." his voice had many traces of annoyance.

"Dibs on a egg roll," I said jokingly.

"If you get here soon enough we'll talk," he said, still obviously really annoyed.

"'Kay, bye." I said as I hung up the phone.

Me and Andrew walked for a few moments in silence.

And unnaturally I wasn't the first to break it.

"So, you and Conner fight over egg rolls often?" he asked with a teasing smile and tone.

I chuckled.

"What?" he said a laugh engraved in his voice as if he was holding it back.

I decided to be sarcastic.

I put on a obviously fake expression and looked at him. "Yes, we do. In fact we fight over rice with our chop-sticks as well," I couldn't help but laugh at the second line.

He laughed too this time. "Well if we choose sides for our 'super chop-stick fight', then I be on yours." he said with a fake yet flirty sarcasm.

I smiled halfheartedly. "Thanks," I murmured awkwardly.

Like I needed it anyways. I'd been practicing how to phase and I could do it in a matter of seconds now. Unfortunately, now that I'd practiced, every time I was close to falling or getting hit any anything, I'd phase. It was good for a few reason, but like anything it had its flaws.

It was good because now I wouldn't get hurt constantly. But it was bad because if someone tried to mess with me and try to scare me like they used to(just for fun of coarse), they'd probably end up with a few bruises or a broken bone.

A few moments later we arrived the house.

We were walking side-by-side not really saying anything (unfortunately I could still hear his thoughts). But then Andrew sped ahead to the door.

I was about to sigh of relief - maybe he was going to be like he used to and be friend-like.

But then I heard his thoughts and seen his actions.

My face fell.

He was opening the door for me. A big grin planted on his face and a sparkle in his eyes.

I walked passed him and murmured thanks.

I was about half step away when he grabbed my hand. "Its no problem," he said with a flirty smile.

I felt my heart do a flip.

Wait… why would it flip? Was it the imprint? The only thing the imprint usually did was put the butterflies in my stomach.

He lead me to the table and pulled out a chair. "You can sit down, I'll get your food for you," he said sweetly.

I was to confused by what was going on to care. I just sat down and nodded.

I heard Conner and Andrew talking in the kitchen. Conner was asking Andrew about what kind of pop he wanted. Apparently he'd bought some pop too.

Andrew came out of the kitchen with a plate of food and set it in front of me.

"What kind of pop do you want?" he asked with a smile still on his face.

"Pepsi?" I asked.

He nodded and went back to the kitchen.

I ate in silence, while Conner and Andrew fought over crab cakes and sweet and sour chicken.

I didn't know what was going on. I knew that I originally didn't have feelings for Andrew and I shouldn't have any. He was my friend and was like a brother. But this imprint was messing with my head and I didn't know how I felt anymore.

After dinner - which I ended up eating my favorites thanks to Andrew - we sat down to watch a movie.

The boys went back to the kitchen before it started and I wasn't really paying attention to their thoughts so I had no idea what was going on. I had to many thoughts of my own to struggle through.

They came out of the kitchen a few minutes later with bowls spoons. Andrew handed me a bowl and it was full of mint chocolate chip ice cream - my favorite.

I smiled weakly. "Thanks," I said before I ate a spoonful.

He smiled too, but his eyes were concerned . He was either starting to notice my mood, or he was just starting to get concerned about it and had notice it earlier. "It's no big." he murmured.

As we watched The Illusionist (Conner sitting on the one end of the couch, me in the middle and Andrew on the other end) we ate our ice cream.

Conner ate cookies and cream and Andrew ate half and half; a scoop of mint chocolate-chip and a scoop of cookies and cream.

We were almost done (we were at the part in the movie, when they were explaining how the main character's plan had worked), when the lights turned on.

Conner was such a party-pooper. He'd turned the lights on. And paused the movie.

"Why?!" I whined. "I wanted to watch that! Now we'll never know what happens."

Conner snorted. "I couldn't even follow what was going on!" he basically screamed. "Plus, we own the movie; your just being a drama queen."

I rolled my eyes.

"You can watch it later." he assured me like I was some spoiled kid. "I want to watch a movie I can actually understand."

"Always ruining the fun," I murmured quietly.

He ignored me and looked in our movie cabnet.

"Andrew, what about Sin city?" he asked totally ignoring me. He probably didn't want my input but I didn't care.

"No!" I yelled. "That movie has no point! Its just scrawny, slutty girls, and gore in black and white."

Conner looked over to me. " I believe I asked Andrew."

I gaped at him. He was being such a jerk! God, I just wanted to give him a bruise in the face…

"Conner, I agree with Shelby. Sin City, sucked, it was a horrible movie." Andrew said to my resue. "Could we just finish the first movie?"

Conner glared at him. "Your just choosing her side 'cause of ur little crush," he said like a little kid that'd just been grounded.

Andrew shrugged. "That and I want to watch the rest of that movie. It was getting good."

I chuckled and Andrew smiled warmly at me.

After another half-an-hour of the movie it was over with.

It wasn't a bad movie at all, and if you were like Conner and really didn't pay attention then you really wouldn't have gotten it.

But basicly the girl was out of this guy's league and he becomes a magician and when they're older they reunite but she married. So they work together to fake her death and frame it on her husband. So that they could both be together.

It was sweet but it felt weird watching it with Andrew…

It was another Romeo and Juliet or another Heathcliff and Katharine. But it was a mystery, which made it better.

Andrew left after I told Conner he could watch whatever he wanted; 'cause I was going to bed and it was obvious that he didn't want to watch Sin City.

The first thing he put in was Sin City. Which wasn't a surprise at all.

I laughed as I told Andrew bye, Conner good-night and went upstairs to take a shower before I went to my room to go to sleep.

(her dream)

I was running in the forest, away from LaPush. I don't know what I was running from or why but I felt the pure fear of the moment and kept going.

I didn't know how long I'd been running but I was phased and the running didn't bother me.

I heard the leaves on the branches rustle and the branches on the ground crack.

I heard growling and looked behind me to see if whatever was following me was close behind.

My eyes went wide as I seen a white werewolf chasing me.

Why would a werewolf be chasing ME?! What did I do?!

I was about to stop went I felt something cold and solid softly grab my hand. It was comforting, familiar and yet some what different.

I kicked up my speed and looked over to see who was holding my hand.

I didn't see their face but I did feel a smile spread across my face.

I was brought out of my dream by the ringing of my phone.

I groaned sleepily, I didn't want to wake up yet. I kept my eyes closed and reatched for my night-stand, hoping that I'd grab it.

For a few seconds I felt around sleepily and then finally felt my phone. I tried to grab it but ended up pushing it farther away with my hand.

I groaned. Why was the stupid phone making this so difficult? Alls I wanted to do was check who had texted me.

I sighed and reatched farther to where I'd knocked my phone when I tried to grab it before.

But what I grabbed was the edge of the table.

I finally opened my eyes in relization that I hadn't heard it fall to the floor.

I quickly sat up right, turned to my table and turned on side lamp.

JPOV:

I felt bad for leaving Shelby alone with my dad. And when I finally got home from looking around the forest with Sam and some of the guys - she was gone.

My dad told me she'd probably gone to the beach. But when I got there she wasn't there either. Only her sent was there, but it wasn't alone. Timothy and Melody (a girl from our tribe and also the girl Timothy imprinted on) were there at one point.

For a moment my curiosity boiled. Why were they with her? What were they talking about?

I knew I sounded a little salker-ish thinking these things, but Shelby (like me and Bella) didn't like being around lovey-dovey couples like Emily and Sam and Timothy and Melody. It made us feel uncomfortable.

I decided just to head to her house and see if she was there. But another scent caught my attention as I followed her stail scent to her house.

It was Andrew.

I growled.

This kid was really pushing my buttons.

I was thinking about just going to her house anyways and crashing his little sceam to get closer to her when I thought about it.

If Shelby is anything like Bella (which she was), she'd notice right away what was going on and then she'd be pissed at the both of us. And I only wanted his chances to die, not mine.

So despite my strong urge to see her I went home and ate dinner. Making a whole new game plan.

* * * * *

It was about 10:30 (at night, I'm not a morning person), when I decided to put my new plan in action.

It was called Plan E. Plan Edward.

See I noticed that if Bella didn't like it when I told Edward she was stronger and when I treated her like a person rather then a piece of glass that you were addicted to look at, she gave me rude looks and him warm smiles.

So that's what I'd do. I was going to treat her like a delicet piece of glass that needed to be protected and looked after. And for the addicting part…well that wasn't to hard to cover.

I walked to her house in the night as I thought about this.

As I approached the house I heard the faint sound of the TV blairing with the movie Sin City. I could tell from the time line that the movie was almost over with and fom what I could see through the window, Conner was fast asleep on the couch. Obviously he'd fallen asleep when he was watching it.

I smiled. I thought pulling off this part of Plan E would be hard. I mean I was sneaking into a house with a werewolf as the care-taker, but Conner slept like a rock. I didn't even have to use a window, I walked silently in the door and up to Shelby's room.

I know this sounds bad. Like I'm a real big stalker (yeah, I admit it sounds like it), but I was only doing what Edward used to do to Bella. He used to sneak in her room and watch her sleep.

Well I wasn't really here to watch her sleep. I was acaully here to 'protect' her. Like incase she fell off the bed or forgot to set her alarm. Little things that could ruin her day, I was here to help with.

I entered her room silently closing the door behind me. I spotted a computer chair and sat in it. She looked beautiful when she was sleeping.

As much as I hated vampires, Shelby looked like one as she slept. It suited her. Her skin was always pailer then anyone's who lived in LaPush, but she always had a slite tan. But as she slept all of the color left her skin, leaving her white. And her pink cheeks looked now crimstion. White with a hint of rose.

It was getting late and I was about to leave and get some sleep myself when her phone rang.

I was going to shut it off so she could get some more rest but she groaned, and reatched for it.

I walked over to the table quietly and moved the phone so her hand was directly next to it.

But when she went to go reatch for it this time she pushed it off the table.

I grabbed it noiselessly before it hit the floor and placed it gently back on the table.

That's when she reatched for her lamp.

I quickly dropped quietly to the floor before she could see me and rolled soundlessly under her bed.

SPOV:

I looked around the room and saw nothing. Not even my things were out of place. I looked over to my side table and sighed of relief. My phone sat there - closely to the edge.

I opened it to see a message from Paul.

A wide smile spread across my face as I thought of him.

I'm sorry if I woke you up, and hopfully I didn't. But text me in the morning 'cause I miss you already! He has wrote.

Aw! He already missed me! I wanted to giggle hysterically.

He was so sweet. I'd text him in the morning. I was to tired right now.

I yawned and flicked off my light. It didn't take me to long to drift into a dreamless sleep.

Letting all my thoughts and worries drift away with my conciseness.

JPOV:

I let out a sigh of relief as she drifted back to sleep.

I could hear heart heart pounding lightly and rythmaticly in her chest.

I stood up quietly and headed towards he door. Hoping that she wasn't going to wake up during my exit.

I thought about how beautiful she looked as she slept. How her long black hair made her already pale complection look lighter and like stone. She was uncharactisicly white for a indain but she had the blood work to prove she was.

She was a albino, just like Bella.

Though I did miss Bella she didn't have some of the things that Shelby did. Shelby was yes younger (not that that matters), she was grown up around werewolvess and knew how to handle them, and she had the drive that made her feared and respected when there was really nothing to fear from her.

Yes in a lot of ways they were alike; and yet… so different.

OKAY! So im really sorry if my spelling is horrible but my spell check isn't working right(SORRY!). But I hoped you liked this chapter, it shows that Jake is starting to fall for Shelby and not the girl he thinks she is. Well I've been having some writers block so if ur wondering why these last few chapters are slow that's why. I'd really like it if you reviewed so I cant get some ideas from you guys.

SO WHAT DO YOU THINK? WHO SHOULD BE THE DRAMA?

A) THE CULLENS

B) THE VOLTURI

C) NOMADS

D) THE PACK

U TELL ME WHO YOU THINK WOULD BE THE BEST VILLAN/ DRAMA CHARACTERS FOR THIS STORY!!!

Just a note saying sorry to anyone who found affence to anything I say about any movies or anything else in the story.

~*~TJL