A/N: I'll say the usual: life, writers block, and laziness. Yep those are the major three. Anyhow can't promise it won't happen again but I will promise that this chapter will have to plot twists and hopefully be entertaining. I would like to thank my new lovely Beta who kindly proof read this for me and is ready for you to read. Without further a due I give you the next chapter in story.

I DO NOT OWN ANYTHING IN THIS STORY BUT ISA AND CERRA. THE SETTING AND CHARACTERS BELONG TO STEPHENIE MEYER.

Chapter 13: "I" is for Intrigue

The next day I wandered among my pack brothers as we made our way to the meeting spot with the Cullens. I was nervous and hoping that Edward, or Bella wouldn't make any reference to my spending time with them as I had.

I hesitated to send any kind of warning to Edward, least it leak into the pack link. I sighed before trying to relax.

-What's wrong, Isa? You seem on edge – Embry.

-Oh, nothing like finding out an army of Newborn vamps are about to descend on Forks and we're the only line of defense- I replied sarcastically. –Yep, nothing to be edgy about at all.-

Embry chuckled at my sardonic humor while Sam told us to pay attention. I sighed deeply before walking into the clearing where Jasper and Emmett were "sparring."

I knew Jasper's history and his prowess in a fight but it was one thing to read about it, it's another to see it in 3D. I tried to not wince when Jasper sent Emmett sailing through the air before plowing a man-sized furrow into the forest's root and pine needle covered ground.

I glanced at Rosalie, who was watching in amusement and relaxed a little. If his wife wasn't concerned by his getting his ass kicked by Jasper then why should I?

-Ten yards 5 points. Twenty 10 points,- I joked quietly and Sam growled at me in warning.

'Geez,' I thought privately in annoyance.

Just then Edward came running into the clearing with Bella clinging to his back like a baby monkey. Her face, what I could see of it, because it was buried into his back, was pale while her hair and clothes were windswept. She wobbled a bit when Edward set her down, a hand to her forehead.

I took a step forward in her direction only to have Sam snarl at me.

-It's Bella, Sam. They're not going to attack me for going to sit near her in this form- I told him in irritation as I bared my teeth at him. He grumbled not convinced. I glared at him. If he was the Alpha male I was the Alpha female and I wouldn't take his overbearing attitude about the Cullen's even though he could make me submit to his will with an Alpha order.

I padded leisurely up to the couple, snorting softly to announce myself. Bella smiled when she saw me then immediately looked concerned.

"Hey, Isa," she greeted quietly as Edward nodded to me in greeting. I nodded back before lowering myself to my haunches; letting my tail gently swish back and forth on the pine duff covered ground.

I wanted to phase back but Sam was anxious enough about this meeting as it was and I didn't want to draw attention to my casual interaction with Edward.

"Why don't you sit with Isa," Edward whispered to Bella then glanced at me as I laid down looking like I was about to curl up and take a nap. "If that's alright with you, Isa?" he asked.

I thumped my tail once. –Of course- I replied privately trying to keep it from leaking into the pack link.

I could feel a flicker of jealousy from Jacob, mixed with annoyance, but I couldn't tell who he was directing it at: Me for talking to Edward, or Bella for being with Edward? Or was it just that Bella was talking to me and not him.

I sent him a questioning "-What's your problem?-" to which he slammed a lid on his emotions and sent back a "-Mind your own business!"- reply. I sent him a withering mental glare, which he ignored.

"You really shouldn't be here, Isa," Bella suddenly whispered to me after she had sat down beside me. I glanced over at her and rolled my eyes.

"You could get hurt. Both you and Jake," she insisted even though I raised a canine eyebrow at her and snorted. Suddenly Jacob's russet form loomed over us making Bella jump. I chuckled and made a show of yawning before laying my head on my paws.

Bella glared at me. "I'm glad I amuse you," she grumbled. I nudged her gently to tell her I was kidding before getting to my feet and moving off to sit by Embry while Edward sparred with Jasper.

I could tell Edward had the upper hand because of his ability to read minds and I idly wondered how he would do without that advantage.

Jasper grimaced as Edward intercepted him again and again. I could tell he was trying to fight instinctively but even then there was still a small part of his mind that thought before he acted.

I was tempted to have a go around myself with the mind reader to see how good I could do and see how well Edward would adapt. Finally after Jasper went flying face first into the dirt the tenth time he swapped with Carlisle while he moved on to spar with Rosalie.

I had known, by way of the books, that Blondie fought dirty but it was another to see it. I swear that the whole pack flinched when she nailed Jasper in the crotch on more than one occasion. I learned something new in the process. Just because a vampire's body was like a moving statue, it didn't necessarily mean they couldn't feel any pain. It just meant that they have an incredibly high pain tolerance. So a boot to the balls by a regular person, end result: broken toes, and possibly, a broken foot.

But now a boot to the balls by another vampire, or similarly strong immortal, end result: vampire male on their knees on the floor cradling crushed or broken balls. The only difference from a human male being kicked in the balls and vampire male's is that the vampire recovers much faster and will more often than not kill whoever dared try to unman them.

Okay, so note to self: if you kick a vampire in the balls kill them while you can otherwise kiss your ass goodbye.

I was trying not to laugh when Jasper had to take a break after that and let Rosalie spar with Alice while he walked around with a slight limp giving suggestions.

I idly wondered if a baseball to the testicles can stop a man's heart in human would a boot to the testicles start a vamp's?

It was several hours later that Carlisle called it a night when he noticed that most of my pack mates were yawning more and more.

"We will have another training session tomorrow if you wish to join us," Carlisle said to Sam, who was sitting high on the slope where the wind blew the Cullen's scent away from them.

I heard Sam agree then said something about learning each of the Cullen's individual scents so as not accidentally injure our "allies" and I could hear the hesitance when he said the word.

"They will come but they need to learn our scents," Edward translated for the others then added. "We will need to keep still."

The others not used to viewing the Cullens as allies were very tense as they moved close enough to learn each scent. Everyone flinched away from the sweet bleach smell except Jacob and I.

I walked right up to the Cullens only to stop a foot or two away sniffing. Carlisle nodded to me as I moved from him to Esme, who smiled hesitantly at me. I nodded back directing my thoughts towards Edward.

-'It is nice to meet you again Dr. Cullen and Mrs. Cullen'- I moved to Emmett and Rosalie nodding to me while Rosalie eyed me like I would pee on her shoes. –'Keep it up Blondie and I might just show you how much of a dog I can really be,'- I warned curling a lip to reveal my teeth before turning to Jasper and Alice.

Alice smiled brightly and I vaguely wondered if she knew something I didn't. I couldn't help the amused grin that spread on mine as I memorized first her scent then Jasper's before moving back toward Bella and Edward.

Edward's scent was easy; I had smelt hints of it, or lingering trails of his for months now since I had met Bella. As I shifted closer to smell him Jacob began to growl and suddenly he was physically came between us, blocking me from Edward. I growled in reflex rather than actual anger.

What the hell was he playing at? I needed to memorize Edward's scent. I tried to walk around him only for Jacob to shoulder his way in front of me again growling louder.

'What the hell is your problem, Jacob?' I demanded with a snarl and all I could feel from him was anger and jealousy.

Suddenly he began to physically shove me away from the clearing by snapping at my paws and hindquarters so that I could even feel his teeth comb through my fur but miss actual skin. I tried to retaliate by snapping back, letting my wolf guide me, baring my teeth to show my displeasure.

A wave of possessiveness swept over me through the long neglected cable that connected me to Jacob.

"~Mine~"

I froze in surprise as that word resounded through my head throwing me off balance both physically and mentally. I stumbled nearly falling as he shoved me in the side when I paused, trying to rationalize what he was doing. We were now many yards into the forest by then and I could feel the anger and jealousy pulse through me from our connection.

I shook my head trying to clear it to figure out why he was acting like this. Then it hit me Jacob was acting just like any other mated wolf would do prevent a rival from trying to hustle in on his mate…

My eyes widened as I realized this. Jacob could say all he wanted about not having expected me as his mate and imprint while he was human, but his wolf side had claimed me as his and his alone.

Still stunned Jacob easily knocked me over on my back and loomed over me baring his teeth in warning. I unconsciously exposed my neck to him in submission and he touched his teeth to my neck growling.

Heat washed up through me from my bones and my body slid into my smaller human body leaving even more vulnerable to him and completely at him mercy.

The air vibrated with the strength of his growls as I slowly turned my head to stare up at him with wide eyes, a tingling of fear threaded through me, as he showed no sign of letting me up.

I could feel the steel cable that anchored me to him pulse with heat and words, "Mine…Mine… Can't have her… He can't have her… Mine!" echoed through my mind over and over again. I flinched from the pain it caused and from his anger but otherwise didn't move.

Suddenly the sound of paws filled the air above the growls and I knew my pack brothers have found us even if I couldn't see them. I could hear Sam growl in warning obviously tell him to back off.

Jacob shuddered, closed his eyes briefly and stepped away, stumbling a bit, looking like he was trying to fight whatever Alpha order Sam had giving him. I didn't move a muscle, afraid he would completely throw Sam's sooner than he was suppose to.

"Jake," my voice was barely above a whisper and he froze, his body trembling as he turned his gaze back to mine. "It's okay."

He held my gaze for a moment before whining low in his throat then suddenly he bolt off into the wood like shot.

I struggled to my feet, " Jake! Come back!" I shouted but my legs wouldn't hold me and I slumped to my hands and knees. The twigs and pine duff poked at my naked skin as tears pricked at my eyes painfully.

"Jake," I whimpered the aching in my chest becoming more and more painful. Bowing my head I began to cry. My tears left salty trails down my cheeks and dripped off the end of my nose to land on the forest ground.

God, I was making such a mess of things… I never should have made that wish…

I'm not sure how long I lay there huddled on the forest floor before I felt Sam pull me into his arms letting me bury my face in his chest as he held me.

"It's all my fault," I sobbed closing my eyes as I felt him gentle untie my dress from my ankle and shake it out to cover my upper body.

"It's not your fault," he whispered, stroking my hair before kissing the top of my head. "There's never been female wolves in the pack before and you imprinted on Jacob. Another first: a wolf imprinting on another wolf. We didn't know how much the imprint would affect the wolf, or the human, in us.

My stomach twisted as guilt wracked me. If I hadn't of made this wish this wouldn't be happening. This pain…his and mine.

It really was entirely my fault… I'm such a selfish bitch…

I was still crying when Sam pulled away long enough to slide my dress over my head and pull it down to cover me. I made sure to slip my arms into the proper places before Sam stood and easily swung me up into his arms.

I must have cried myself to sleep because I woke when Sam, with the help of Embry, shifted me to Sam's back so as to make it easier on him to carry me.

Groggily, I slumped into him as fresh tears trickled down my cheek and into Sam's hair. "I'm sorry," I murmured, my voice cracking in exhaustion as my eyes drifted closed again. Sam didn't respond but sighed softly in sympathy.

"I'm gonna kick Jacob's ass." I heard Embry vow quietly.

"Not before I do," Sam muttered back his voice rough.

X X X

When I woke I didn't know where I was but I felt two bodies, one on either side with me sandwiched in between them like a piece of meat or cheese.

Groaning, I turned into the body to my left laying my head on Embry's broad shoulder. How did I know it was Embry beside me you ask? Well it was simple, my nose told me because Embry always smelled of leather and candy apples. Why leather and candy apples? Well Embry's mother made moccasins and other special order items made from leather, along with making candy apples to be sold at the local bake sales and bakery to help pay the bills. And like a good son Embry would often help her by cutting the tanned leather and furs, or by dipping the apples into melted candy and caramel.

I heard Embry moan slightly in his sleep before rubbing at his nose furiously then burrowed his head into the pillows. I cracked my eyes open to see the familiar sight of my room. It was a moment later that I felt the arm around my waist move and the bed shifted as Sam lifted himself up to check the clock that was on Embry's side of my bed.

I felt his hand move to mine and grip it in reassurance before settling again, but I didn't hear his breathing change so I knew he hadn't fallen asleep again. I yawned softly, closing my eyes again. It felt like I had barely slept, my eyes were all gritty from tears but not sore thanks to my wolf healing. I lay there listening to Embry's deep breathing and I could hear mom getting ready for work. So I knew it was at least around nine in the morning.

"Mom doesn't know I'm here," Sam whispered as we listened to our mother's footsteps and the closing of the front door. So that meant she didn't know about what had happened last night… good.

Sighing, I opened my eyes and sat up taking stock of myself as I did.

Tired…okay not just tired; exhausted…Gritty, but not sore eyes. I looked down at my hands and body. Dirt covered palms and knees with most likely, though I couldn't see them, dirt streaks on my face.

I ran my fingers through my hair pulling a leaf and some pine needles as I did. I definitely needed a shower then change my bedding because Embry and Sam were in the same dirt covered state. I crawled to the end of my bed and over the end board to grab a pair of yoga pants and a tank top before heading for the bathroom for a hot shower.

I stood long enough under the hot spray to be accused of trying to grow a set of gills and my skin was cherry red in spots when I dried off, dressed, and started combing my hair. I was almost finished when the smell of something burning reached my nose. Dropping my comb in the vanity sink I dashed out of the bathroom into the hall and rushed down the stairs, descending them as fast as I could.

I stormed the kitchen to see Sam in the middle of making a huge brunch style breakfast, with bacon, hash browns, pancakes and scrambled eggs. Smoke billowed from the toaster, while the oven beeped shrilly to tell everyone in hearing range that whatever was in it was done. While on the stovetop the frying pan that held the scrambled eggs was lying half off the burner and in very real danger of burning. Meanwhile Sam was frantically moving around the kitchen opening windows to get the smoke to dissipate so as not to set the smoke detector off.

I quickly rescued the pan of scrambled eggs from burning by pulling them from the heat and dumping them into a glass bowl that was already waiting then turned off the burner, the timer and oven. I checked on what was in the oven and pulled out the cookie sheet of hash brown that I found inside with a tea towel because they were done. I had dumped them into another bowl then switched on the range hood to help dissipate the smoke when I realized what my "brother" was trying to do…make me breakfast.

My heart warmed with the knowledge that my brother was a really great guy that instead of shuffling me off last night on our mother, stayed to hold me while I slept so I would feel safe.

My heart clenched, I didn't deserve this. I didn't, not by a long shot. I bit my lip as I thought this, a feeling of guilt swept through me. Grimacing, I set the dirty cookie sheet off to the side near the sink. Just as I was setting the other dirty dishes in the sink Sam came back in with an annoyed look on his face.

"Were you able to salvage it?" I asked with a raised brow.

"The toast or the toaster?" he replied back.

"Both, I guess."

"The bread is charcoal and the toaster wasn't looking too good either," he answered with a frown.

"I guess we know what to get mom for her birthday, huh?" I joked as I moved the hash browns and eggs to the table. He snorted softly in laughter before he grabbed the foil-covered plate of pancakes and the bacon from the microwave.

So I enjoyed breakfast with my "twin" who up until now I had never really gotten to know. We had just finished when Embry, who had obviously woken up enough to smell the delicious aroma of our breakfast, came down to eat.

While Embry heaped his plate and stuck it in the microwave to heat up I stared at the crumb-covered table. I felt numb, even after Sam's actions and tired… I sighed before getting to my feet to put my plate in the sink.

"When's the next training session with the Cullens?" I asked as I pushed my hair from my eyes. Sam's brown eyes met mine as he hesitated just the sleight before speaking.

"It's at four," he replied then added. "If you're up to it." His gaze was concerned. I purposely turned towards the sink and began to add soap and water to the sink.

"I'm fine," I lied as I began to wash the dirty dishes. I could tell Sam wanted to ask more but the phone rang saving me from further questions.

It was Emily.

"The water's not working? Is any water coming out of the tap at all? A trickle… Sounds like the pumps breaker got thrown again… Yeah I know I said I fixed it but- Well it can't handle the washing machine and the dishwasher going at the same time…Yes, I'll be home soon…" Sam explained then glanced over at me looking slightly torn.

I smiled faintly as I cleaned up, "Ah, the joys of being engaged."

I heard Sam promise to come home and fix the water before hanging up.

"I'll be fine," I lied again not even bothering to look at him as I drained the sink. Maybe if I said it enough I would start believing it myself too. I saw him share a look with Embry. "Just go, Sam. One of us should be happy," I sighed, looking at him despondently.

He sighed sadly before pulling me into a tight hug. "You're so much stronger than I am, Isa that it's a miracle you weren't made Alpha," he murmured to me.

I snorted softly. "As if you guys would have listened to me if I was?" I scoffed as I pulled away with a sad smile.

Sam hesitated. "Training is at four. Make sure you're there," he said knowing he couldn't always put my mental health above my responsibility to the pack and out people.

"Got it, oh fearless leader," I stated with a mock salute even though my words lacked the needed sarcasm to pull off the stunt but it made Sam smile half heartedly in reply. Sam left but not before kissing my forehead and I sighed when the door closed behind him.

I was making such a mess of things…

I closed my eyes and rubbed my face, content for the moment to just block everything out for a few blissful seconds.

"I need to be alone for a bit, Embry," I murmured after a while of standing there with my eyes closed.

"Understandable," he admitted quietly as he picked up his empty plate and set it in the sink. "Sam's right though. You're one of the strongest women I know. You'll live through this," he assured me.

'But will I want to?' I asked mentally as I nodded back forcing some semblance of a smile on my lips. "I see you later, okay?" I said as I slid on a pair of shoes and left the house, leaving Embry to lock the door when he left.

I headed for the clearing where the Cullen's had been practicing and once there I sat down on a log to wait. I was on Cullen land but I didn't care. I knew none of the pack would think of coming earlier than the designated time.

I had only been sitting there for about twenty minutes when Jasper and Emmett breezed into the clearing. Emmett was holding a football and had his usual grin on his face.

"Back without your 'fearless' pack brothers?" Emmett asked breezily grinning at me. I scoffed still feeling a little down.

"Well I won't say I'm afraid of you but I will say I do have a healthy respect for your fighting skill," I admitted with a slight smile.

"Fair enough," he replied with a smirk. "Come to join the fun?" he asked, tossing the football up and down.

I arched an eyebrow mildly confused. "I'm fast, but I'm not vampire fast on two legs as I am on four," I stated not sure how I would keep up on as a human.

"We'll take it easy if you do want to play," Emmett offered. "Wouldn't want to hurt our allies before the big battle."

"Maybe later," I said hesitantly. "I think I'll watch for a bit if you don't mind?" I asked looking from Emmett to Jasper, who was watching me carefully.

"Sure," Jasper agreed his lips twitching into a little grin. "Just give us a holler and we'll slow down enough for you to play."

Somehow I could tell something about me amused him even though he was careful not to show it. I nodded and thus they began tossing the ball from the other trying to outdo one another with each throw.

It was like watching a game with the fast-forwards flicking on and off to skip ahead in the tape. I was so engrossed in trying to pay attention I only caught Alice's scent a second before she was sitting beside me on the ground.

I didn't jump, but I did freeze, forgetting to breathe as my heart leapt and began to pound like a galloping horse.

"Sorry," Alice said with a slight apologetic look on her face. I let my breath out in a whoosh as I tried to calm my racing heart by taking few deep breaths.

"It's fine. Just don't make a habit of it," I murmured jokingly as I gave her a weak smile. She stared at me for a moment frowning thoughtfully before looking over to watch Jasper make a spectacular leap for the ball because Emmett purposely over threw it.

"I've always wanted to meet you," I said offhandedly as I stared off into the distance and thought of the time before I was in this world. When I had been in desperate need of someone like Alice for a friend. Back when I had needed a friend who wouldn't have ditched me at the drop of a hat. (Not without good cause anyway) Not just because one of us moved, or had gotten a boyfriend, or even a new friend. Before last year…

(God had it only been last year? It felt so much longer…)

In some ways I still did sort of need a friend like her even now with being one of two female wolf shape shifters in the pack.

"Meet me?" Alice asked surprised and a bit confused. Yeah," I nodded smirking. "Bella said you were the best friend she'd ever had even though you liked to use people as human size Barbies," I added with a laugh.

"I can't help it if people have no sense of fashion," Alice sighed. I chuckled at her woe is me expression.

"Well some people prefer the comfort of jeans and t-shirts. Or in my case can't afford to mess with fancy clothes when they might end up in shreds at any given moment," I remarked with a slight grin.

"You wolves at least have an excuse," Alice sighed then tensed and for all intents and purposes zoned out.

Confused as to how Alice could have a vision while sitting near me when the books had always said that wolves caused a blind spots in her vision.

A whoosh of wind heralded Jasper as he went to Alice's side as she came out of it to look at me in concern before waving away Jasper's concern. "I'm fine," she assured him before turning to me. "Who is Bree?" she asked curiously.

I froze in shock as a coldness swept over my skin, fear skittering up my spine. "She's one of the people who went missing in Seattle," I answered careful to keep my answers as truthful as I could.

"She's one of the newborns?" Alice asked but I could tell she wasn't asking but wanting conformation. I nodded. "I saw Edward asking Carlisle and others to keep their eyes open for her because she could be saved."

"She and the others are kept so far in the dark it's a wonder they remember what the sun looks like," I remarked with a sardonic snort.

"How do you know this?" Jasper demanded, while Alice didn't look bothered at all by my admission.

"You have to ask?" I scoffed. "How does Edward hear thoughts, or Alice have visions? Or you feel and manipulate emotions?" I asked looking at him pointedly. Hoping they would not question it and I could remain weird but not labeled "Crazy."

Jasper tensed, a suspicious look on his face as he took a protective stance beside his wife.

"I just know things," I continued, licking my lips nervously. "It's like reading a book and knowing only that plot. But the characters can still make different choices and/or they could easily still follow the rest of the story line. Free will and all," I added with a small shrug.

Jasper's eyebrows furrowed distrustfully but he was not outright hostile.

"So it's like one really long vision but you don't get to see the change if someone makes a different decision?" Alice asked with a look of realization entering her eyes.

"How long have you had this gift?" Jasper inquired making Alice scowl at him.I hesitated as I struggled to come up with an answer.

"Around the time I started Phasing," I stated deciding to be as truthful as I could be and not be called a loony. Jasper's golden eyes stared into mine with such intensity that I knew he knew I wasn't telling the whole truth.

"So only a few months time then?" Alice asked, her own golden gaze both surprised and a little delighted.

"It's not as reliable as your visions though," I stated mentally grimacing. "None of my pack know about my knowledge," I added hastily, turning my gaze to the ground to avoid Jasper's knowing eyes.

"But it could be helpful," Alice objected while smiling brightly, obviously thrilled to have someone with similar gift.

"Well I do know Bella's thoughts about Victoria are true. She's using them as a distraction to get to Bella. She has no idea that the pack in now co-operating with you. We will be a complete surprise," I said, continuing to stare at the ground, feeling a mix of sick and nervous. "She keeps Bree and the others completely in the dark. To them they are the vampires of legend. Burning in the sun as well as from holy crosses, and can only feed from humans. Volatile like most Newborns any who find out the truth are killed. Riley knows more but is still in the dark. To him you killed James and Laurent without provocation and he would rather kill trespassers than be civil. He thinks he is in love with Victoria and she lets him think she loves him back. Much like Maria, she's smart and Riley know no other way and thinks he's in love."

I looked up at Jasper to make sure he understood what I was saying about Riley.

"He can't be saved. He's too blinded by his 'love' for her and will only realize how little he actually means to her when he's torn apart right in front of her and she does nothing to stop it," I finished, my voice filled with pity for Riley and the other newborn's wasted lives. I rubbed my temples as my head began to ache and when I opened them minutes later to look at the mated pair I noticed Emmett was nowhere in sight. "Where-…" I began but Jasper cut me off.

"He went to go get the others for the training session. It's almost four," Jasper answered, making me glance up to see the sun was much lower in the sky. I had been there for three hours.

"Sam and Edward can't find out any of this, at least not right away. Otherwise Sam will order me to stay home and Edward will never let me help you with Bella," I said looking at Jasper pleadingly. I knew Alice wouldn't tell. She was good at keeping things from Edward and she never spoke to any of the pack except those she saw regularly like Jacob and me.

Jasper's piercing gaze was still on me making me want to lash out in frustration. "Jasper, please," I said pleadingly. Alice reached out grasping her husband's hand making him glance at her. She widened her eyes at him in a piteous way and he seemed to cave a little.

"Fine," he responded testily though his face showed none of his irritation as he gazed at his wife just bemusement because of his mate. "But I can not make no promises about Edward."

I sighed in relief, closing my eyes briefly. "I have already promised Edward I would speak with him."

Now I just had to be careful how much I told Edward so that I wouldn't mess anything up. What I told Jasper might be the right way to go since they had at least some understanding with Alice's gift. But Sam… he could never know or he would freak and order me to stay on the Rez for the rest of my life. That is if he even believed me…

Just then the rest of the Cullen family arrived with Bella clinging to Edward's back again doing her impression of a spider monkey.

"Isa," Edward greeted with a polite smile as he lowered Bella to her feet.

"Hey Edward, Bella," I smiled at them both then chuckled at Bella's slightly dazed and windswept pale face. "You okay there, Bella?" I asked in amusement.

"I'm fine," she replied with a look of someone struggling with a rebelling stomach.

"Oh, well as long as you finish being 'fine' behind a bush, or something. Cuz I'm don't need to sympathy hurl on top of everything I've had to deal with in the last twenty-four hours," I remarked rambling a bit as I gave her a little smirk when she narrowed her eyes at me.

"Thanks, but I really am fine," she told me firmly and I could see that a bit of color was returning to her cheeks.

"Good," I nodded. "Cuz you're gonna have to get used to moving that fast if you wanna be a vamp," I remarked jokingly.

"You're alright with Bella's choice?" Carlisle asked with a puzzled frown as Esme hovered near his side.

I paused, my smile dimming as I realized what I had said. "Well, I mean, I would prefer she not have to spend the rest of her life drinking blood, But it's not my choice. It's hers and she's responsible enough to understand the ramifications of her actions and decisions," I shrugged trying to sound relaxed not as nervous as I was.

"That is very mature of you," Carlisle said with a smile.

"Well it's not as if you're doing it against her will, or for malicious reasons. I might not be so understanding but for my experience with you and your family. You have shown me you are more compassionate than most people whose hearts still pump blood and value life more than others of your race," I explained truthfully, glancing behind me when a chorus of howls rang out into the distance.

I heaved a sigh, "I really rather you didn't mention I was here all afternoon otherwise Sam will flip and I won't be able to leave the Rez 'til I'm 90…" I requested as I wandered off into the bushes until I was screened enough to strip out of my clothes and phased.

I was greeted by a bombardment of thoughts and emotions before I felt and heard Embry, Quill, and Jared said, -'Hello.'-

-'What's up, Isa?'- Seth

I sent back my own greetings as I stretched and carefully shielded my memories from the others. I paused as I felt Leah tentatively probe my shield as though testing its strength before retreating feeling puzzled.

I tensed. No one else had done that before… None of the others had ever reached out like that. Not even Sam, who was our Alpha, that is until Jacob stepped up.

This made me think that my control over who heard and saw my thoughts might not be a strictly a "me thing" but a "female wolf thing". Meaning Leah had it too…

I was so lost in this thought that I didn't hear Sam ask me where I had been.

-'The meadow,'- I said truthfully careful to leave out the part where Jasper and Emmett came to play football. It would at least explain away why I smelt of vampire and wouldn't get myself grounded.

I sunk to my belly as I waited for the others to arrive I laid my head on my paws closing my eyes while I waited. I was drowsy enough for Embry to think I had dozed off and tried to sneak up on me. I didn't move a muscle when I heard Embry slow to a creep, before charging to pounce on me.

I played possum until the last moment then promptly rolled out of the way. He let out a startled yelp when he ploughed nose first into the ground then went ass over teakettle into some bushes when I wasn't there to halt his momentum and cushion his fall.

I wheezed with laughter as I got to my feet, shaking the pine needles and dirt from my fur. –'You okay,'- I asked in amusement as I poked my nose into the bush to see if my friend was all right.

Embry whimpered softly as he righted himself, yanking at both his back and front foot to try to untangle them from some creepers. –'Ow,'- he grunted as he tried to bite his back leg free from the vines wrapped around it.

-'Serves you right,'- I remarked with a chuckle before moving into help him free his leg. I grabbed at the plants with my teeth and yanked them from the soil.

-'Thanks,'- Embry grumbled feeling embarrassed.

Paul and Jared poked fun at him for a few moments before being called to order by Sam telling us to shut up and get our ass to the meadow for Jasper's lesson.

Still amused, I walked side by side with Embry and Seth, who was still grinning that grin of his that even in wolf form was contagious.

-'Ill have to remember that next time,'- Seth told me still in high spirits.

-'Never know when playing dead will come in handy,'- I nodded in agreement thinking of his fight with Riley.

When we entered the meadow Seth sat beside me when I sat near Bella, who was perched on a log. She smiled at me in greeting then looked curiously at Seth, probably wondering, which one he was because she had never seen Seth in his wolf form.

I focused on Jasper's instruction but I was aware of the moment of when Jacob phased and his guilt-ridden consciousness filled the pack link. His strong emotions made the whole pack flinch in unison. I was tempted to mute his emotions, but it would have drawn Sam's unwanted attention to the unusual amount of mental control that I had.

I was watching Edward send Emmett face first into the ground when I heard Seth whine softly and Jacob's mind disappear as he phased to human then left.

It was several hours later when Sam called it quits and told everyone to head home, which they did. I said I was staying out for a bit and headed back to the meadow but not before phasing human, dressing and circling back.

"She told you what?" Edward asked in surprise just as I entered the clearing to witness Edward staring at Jasper in stunned amazement and by the guilty look of the Texan vampires face and the irritated look on Alice's. I knew he had slipped up revealing my knowledge of what was to come by accident to Edward.

Edward's head jerked around to stare at me as I came closer to the group of vegetarian vampires. I had to fight the urge to flee in the opposite direction when quite suddenly I was the focus of their attention.

"Maybe I should come back later?" I suggested tentatively knowing I sounded lame but hoping to avoid this whole episode for as long as possible.

"No, you need to answer some questions," Edward stated coldly making me mentally wince as I stepped closer to the Cullens careful to keep my hands visible and to not make any sudden movements. Bella frowned in confusion and looked from Edward to me then back.

"I'll only answer what I can, but there are things that I can't tell you, and nor would you believe me if I did," I said firmly meeting Edwards gaze.

"What answers you can give us would be much appreciated," Carlisle cut in diplomatically as he stepped forward placing a hand on Edward's shoulder to calm him.

"How far does your knowledge go?"

"As in how extensive? Or how far into the future?" I asked for clarification, Bella looked stunned, her doe eyes wide.

"How extensive?" Jasper asked cutting off Alice, who had opened her mouth to speak.

I hesitated wondering how much to say. "I know you lied on you conscription to get into the army and that you were the youngest general in the cavalry without seeing any real battle."

Jasper stared at me dumbfounded making me feeling uncomfortable again.

"I only know a general sort of knowledge of each of your lives. A vague outline in parts, others in more detail," I explained looking down to avoid their stares.

"So that means you know about my past?" Alice asked in excitement looking anxious and hopeful.

Dread filled me causing a wave of coldness to wash over me as I struggled to find a good reply, "I…yes, to a point…" I hedged not sure how much to say. I was aware Jasper was watching me and I could feel my dread when suddenly a wave of calmness washed over me.

"I think we should be worrying about what happens the day after tomorrow rather than focusing on how much I know," I stated hoping to postpone this discussion for a while yet.

"So what can you tell us?" Carlisle asked diplomatically.

My brain threw Bree's name at me and I hesitated suddenly worried about how saving Bree would affect everything. She could be sent to the Denali's but would she be over most of her blood lust by the time they come to witness? I just had to hope so, and took a breath before opening my mouth to speak only for Edward to hold a hand up to silence me.

"Jacob's coming," he said quietly, causing my heart to leap in panic.

'How am I going to explain this!' I thought in fear as my gaze met Edwards's dark gold eyes.

"I'm not fighting tomorrow," Edward stated suddenly like he was answering a question all the while looking at me like I had spoken.

"Did you sprain something?" Jacob's voice asked sarcastically as he entered the clearing, his eyes meeting mine briefly before looking away in a mix of shame and embarrassment.

"No, he's staying out of the fight because I asked him to…to protect me," Bella stated speaking up for the first time since the other's had left and I had let the cat out of the bag.

"So where will you be then?" Jacob questioned with a frown.

"Edward's taking me camping high up the mountain where I'll be safe," Answered calmly. "But the problem is even if he carries me they can still track my scent."

"And since your scent is revolting to our kind-" Jasper began.

"Revolting? You really want to stand there and compare stenches?" Jacob cut across him in annoyance.

"So we were thinking if a Werewolf carried me your scent would mask mine," Bella cut back in before Jacob could do more then glare at Jasper.

"So we asked Isa to stay behind to test the theory but she was concerned about being able to carry Bella the whole way," Edward added with a tight smile. "So lucky for us you showed up."

Jacob narrowed his eyes at Edward then his gaze swung toward me. "I didn't know you knew Isa at all," he said gruffly making me grimace.

"Bella asked me to stay with her until Edward came back a few days ago," I began trying for nonchalance as I met my imprint's gaze.

"I take it you just want me to make a loop?" he asked cutting across my excuse turning his gaze to Edward and Jasper.

"Pick a direction and run. "We'll try to track Bella," Edward replied as Bella moved to Jacob's side.

"Eau de Wolf coming up," he joked dryly as he scooped Bella into his arms and took off at a jog.

"Run," Edward ordered in which Jacob began to sprint in way of reply and he smirked at something he must of heard Jacob's mental retort.

"I will try to help if I'm certain that I won't make things worse," I murmured, "I only know one outcome unlike Alice-"

"As you keep saying," Jasper drawled with a half amused, half distrustful look on his cowboy face.

I sighed softly. "I hope you will trust me enough save Bree by sending her to the Denalis. I'm sure Tanya, Irina and Kate would love a younger sister and would keep her safe," I stated ignoring the shocked looks I got. "Bree has had a harder life than any of you, well except for maybe Esme before she was fortunate enough to be found by you, Carlisle."

Esme, whom had been patiently observing me, gasped when she heard me, her golden eyes wide. "We will do all we can to make sure girl gets a second lease on life," Carlisle stated putting a comforting arm around his mate.

A bittersweet feeling welled in me as I watched the couple. I turned my gaze away to avoid the sweet way Carlisle consoled Esme. A dull aching pain starting in my chest as I was reminded I wouldn't find my own happy ending anytime soon.

"I should go and get some sleep," I said with a forced smile. "The morning comes early and all that jazz," I added before turning on my heel to take off at a jog into the forest towards home, hoping that next few days would turn out like they needed so that everyone would have a happy ending.

x

My feet were cold…

The coldest they had felt since waking up in La Push. I could hear the crunch of snow under my paws…

Paws? I had paws…?

I looked down to see that I really did in fact have paws and they were covered with thick black fur. I could see my equally black nails glint in the weak sunlight as I walked.

I touched my nose to the snowy ground sniffing. I could smell flowing water but it was encased in ice too thick for me to break. I followed the scent of water until I came to an area where a spring fed into the river mere feet from where I stood. I could hear it trickling and my desire to quench my thirst was overriding my caution.

I stepped closer to the water that bubbled from around the base of a snow-covered boulder. The ice creaked but held and I edged closer, stretching my neck to reach the bubbling water. My legs sprawled to brace myself on the ice so as not to slip as well as to spread my weight better.

The water was glacial and refreshing it eased my thirst. I had barely managed a couple of swallows before a sharp crack filled the icy air and I fell…

I plunged down into the dark depths, the cold stabbing me through my thick fur and what little air I had, was being squeezed from me by the bitterly cold water. I struggled to surface, but I had been swept down stream away from the hole I had fallen through and the life giving air.

The water pierced me like a thousand icy daggers, the pain was excruciating as I tried to slam myself against the thick ice that prevented me from getting to the air above. My vision began to grey as a vague sort of warmth began to wash through me then I was overwhelmed by darkness as both bitterness and sense of relief followed the awareness that I was going to die.

Gasping, I jerked upright in bed then promptly began to cough and gag like I was choking on the very air. It was a struggle to get air into my aching lungs as I panted. My vision was spotted with black and shiny spots like glitter had been thrown about my room. Once I could see normally again I saw it was still dark out and the clock on my side table told me it was still hours until sunrise.

I sat there for a long time trying to calm down and when I pushed my hair from my face it was wet with sweat along with my nightshirt and bed sheets. My hands trembled as I reached for the bottle of water on my side table.

I hadn't had that dream for a long time… not since I had woke up in La Push. There was a time when I would have had that nightmare several times a month. I twisted the lid from the bottle once it was in my hands and downed half the contents. Panting slightly I cradled the half full bottle in my hands. It felt cool against my flesh, shuddering as it reminded me of the icy water that had surrounded me.

Goosebumps covered my arms as I climbed out of my bed and crawled out my window onto the roof and into the cool night air. I leaned against the side of the house and pulled my knees up stretching my shirt over them to cover the fact I was only wearing as oversized nightshirt and underwear. Yawning hugely, I gripped the hem of my shirt to my ankles still a little shaky but at least my heart wasn't trying to pound its way out of my chest.

Most kids have dreams of going to school in their underwear or of some creepy dark place where someone chases you. But no, I dream of a brightly lit forest covered in snow with a frozen river that was beautiful almost picturesque. That is until I fall through the ice and drown because I'm trapped under the ice.

I was six the first time and I had woken my mother with my screams and hysterical tears. So almost every week I would have one until the point my mother took me to the doctor and was referred to a psychiatrist. Needless to say I stopped telling my mother when I had a dream and tried to hold in my screams no matter how scared I was.

Eventually the nightmares tapered off from weekly to only a few times a month then they became monthly. But I hadn't had one since arriving in La Push at least until tonight, anyway. The cool predawn air made me shudder in memory of the icy water but I refused to move back into my confining room.

Wrapping my arms around my knees I let my head drop down to rest on them as I sighed. I was still tired and today I would need my strength. I closed my eyes wishing for the comfort of Jacob's presence and his scent.

I must have fallen back asleep because it seemed like only moments later that weak morning light began to shine upon my face. Groggily I opened my eyes then sat up rubbing them sleepily. I was still on the roof although I had ended up on my side when I had drifted off.

Buzz…Buzz…

I pushed my hair from my face distractedly while I climbed back through my still open window to retrieve my cell phone. I tripped over some clothes and nearly ploughed face first on my bed but recovered and fished it out the pocket of a pair of jeans.

+What's up?+ My phone read when I flipped it open.

+The sun+ I replied then tossed it back on my bed as I gathered up my clothes and tossed them into the half empty laundry basket.

Buzz…Buzz…

I snatched up my phone again.

+Smartass+

+Better than a dumb one+ I sent back smirking as I took the now full basket down the stairs as I reach the last step my cell started to ring. I answered when I was able to set my load down in the laundry room.

"So is that Isa for 'I didn't sleep worth crap last night'?" Embry asked rhetorically when I put the phone to my ear.

"When in our entire friendship have I ever been cheery at six in the morning?" I asked dryly then added. "If you want chipper call me after I have food in me and maybe a ton of sugar."

"Note to self: Pick up pixie sticks and gummy worms," Embry joked. I smirked as I loaded my clothes into the washer.

"Was there a reason you're calling, Em?" I asked straightening and heading into the kitchen.

"Can't I call to talk to my best friend?" he asked back trying to sound wounded at my words but I could tell he wasn't.

"Sure, sure," I replied sarcastically then smirked deviously. "What did you wanna talk about? Cuz I have this theory on why I don't get my period," I began cheerfully as I pictured Embry's face turning beet red and cringing from the phone. "Well you know when a girl has a heavy flow and she's always has to change her tampon or pad-"

Click.

I snickered as I heard him hang up on me. I flicked my cell closed. "Typical guy. Start talking about a girls menstrual cycle and they flee," I muttered to myself still grinning as I went to make something to eat.

It was about five minutes later that I got another text.

+You are MEAN+ -Embry

+Don't be such a PUSSY+ I texted back with a chuckle.

After eating I went to my room to look into the depths of my closet. I pulled out several sweaters and sweatpants. I stuffed them into a pack with a pair of snow boots and several pairs of socks. Pulling the drawstring closed I tossed the bag on the bed before grabbing a clean towel and headed to the bathroom for a much needed shower.

It wasn't until much later in the day that I managed to track down Edward's campsite by following his scent and reached it only ten minutes before Jacob and Bella.

"Isa," Edward said in surprise when I leapt onto a boulder my pack dangling by a strap wedged on a tooth. "What are you doing here?"

-'I brought Bella some more clothes…It's gonna snow'- I thought at him as I lowered the bag to the ground and tugged the strap from between my teeth with a paw.

"Isa, what do you know?" Edward demanded sounding like I was starting to test his vast patience.

-' I can't tell you that,'- I replied with a sigh letting my ears droop as I lowered myself to my hunches, which earned me a glare.

"If Bella is hurt, Isa-"

-'A few cuts and bruises,'- I cut him off he could finish threatening me. The glare turned murderous before I added. -'It will work out Edward.'-

He seemed to deflate a little then suddenly he was on the boulder beside me looking down the mountain. I glanced back at him questioningly.

"Jacob," he said in way of explanation his eyebrows narrowed. I contemplated leaving and returning later to make sure Bella didn't get frostbite tonight.

"He knows you're here," Edward added just as I had unconsciously gotten to my feet. "He caught your scent just a moment ago… He's annoyed you're here…" Edward suddenly blinked in surprise than chuckled in amusement at something her heard before sobering.

I frowned at his sudden outburst of laughter then his equally sudden seriousness.

I might as well bite the bullet and just wait for him to get here. Sighing, I settled once more on the slightly warm stone, it felt nice on my underbelly. I rested my head on the bag of winter clothes I brought to wait, which wasn't long. No sooner had I closed my eyes that I heard Jacob's strong steady footsteps and Bella's soft voice.

I didn't open my eyes right away but waited for Jacob to speak.

"Isa," Bella greeted sounding a mix of surprised and pleased. "Are you not fighting? Did Sam order you to be in reserve?"

I opened my eyes and lifted my head turning my gaze to Edward, who spoke for me.

"She was concerned about a snowstorm that is suppose to the happen tonight," he explained with a slight smirk, placing an icy hand on my furred shoulder. "She brought extra clothes for you, Bella," he added picking up the bag from where I had been resting my head on it.

I felt more then heard Jacob growl as he set Bella on her feet before stalking forward a step then halting himself, clenching his hand into fists like he wanted to punch something or someone. I slipped away from the boulder and Edwards glacial touch on my shoulder.

Edward seemed to smirk at Jacob in concealed amusement as Bella moved to his side.

"Well thanks for the lift, Jacob," Bella said trying to break the death glare Jacob was giving Edward. "Don't you have to get back?"

"You need my link to the pack. Seth will spell me- US in the morning," Jacob corrected himself before turning his annoyed gaze to me. A small whine escaped me before I could stop, apprehension filling me at his look. "Could you excuse us for a minute?" Jacob said gruffly. Edwards nodded before leading a slightly confused Bella to the campsite he had set up.

Once we were alone, at least in sight if not in hearing Jacob turned on me fully and I nearly cringed away from him.

"What the hell are you doing here?" He demanded his brown eyes hard for once, instead of his usual melted chocolate.

Sighing, I phased back, not bothering to hide. He had seen me naked enough times, but as I untied my dress and pulled it on, I couldn't help but notice Jacob's jaw drop slightly and promptly look away blushing a bit.

"It's gonna snow, Jacob. Bella could freeze. I brought more clothes for her that's all," I grumbled as I tied the drawstring at the back of my dress into a bow.

"What were you doing up here alone with him?" He's a blood sucking leech!" he growled trembling a little in anger.

"Oh gee I was think I'd let him plough me right here on the rocks. Then while he screw my brains out and while he does that he can bite me and I can die a painful and pleasure filled death by venom," I snapped back, my smartass mouth getting the better of me. "Are you an idiot? I was waiting for you and Bella. We talked, end of discussion! I don't get why you're acting like this? It's not like you don't control me enough as it is being my imprint. What part of that means you have a say in who I talk or stand close to?" I snarled back, I could feel my face getting red as my hands begin to tremble.

"You're mine!" he growled back unable to help himself. "I won't let him take you from me, too," he bit out his eyes suddenly turning an eerie gold before turning back.

"I'm not a thing! You can't tell me what I can and can't do! Our wolves might know we're mates but that doesn't mean you have chosen me as yours. You haven't claimed me yet Jacob and I don't think you ever will," I growled back as tears threatened to spill over. I swallowed back the sob that wanted to escape me. Instead I stalked off into the underbrush in an effort to escape, however briefly from his presence.

Furious, I swiped at the tears in my eyes, 'What an asshole!' I mentally ranted as I stomped along trying to find a nice hidey-hole that would keep the snow and wind at bay while I stayed in human form.

The sky was overcast already and the wind was biting, but I didn't feel it much. I found a massive pine tree with low hanging boughs that made a sort of natural cave made of living branches. I crouched low to climb inside towards the trunk at the center of the little cave. The wind was barely noticeable and the ground was dry and soft. I curled up on my side and waited for the sun to go down.

I must have drifted off because when I woke up again, I could hear the wind howling and saw snow building up at the mouth of the pine tree boughs covering me. I stripped then phased before exiting, knowing that it was more practical to be in my fur than my human skin. Jared and Leah, who were on patrol tonight, greeted me. I sent a vague greeting back as I made my way back to Bella and Edward's campsite.

The wind threw snow into my face and eyes making me squint. I made my way to the dimly lit tent where Jacob must have been camped out. I could see where his huge feet had packed down snow. He wasn't outside so I turned my ears on the tent I could hear two heartbeats and quite voices.

Edward remarked on how "clean" his thoughts were considering he had Bella in his arms then growled softly in annoyance.

"Have you ever considered that I might be better for her then you are?" Jacob asked after a while his voice hushed.

"I have," Edwards admitted quietly. "I would leave if she wished me to… I would rather she stayed as she is…human."

"Then go."

"I did. It nearly killed us both when I left," he stated sadly. "I will never do that to her again until she commands me to leave."

"You gave up too soon," Jacob said. "One more month and I could have done it. Made her happy again. Given her all she wanted, a loving husband, bunches of kids…"

There was silence for a moment.

"What about Isa, Jacob? Can you truthfully tell me that your attraction to Bella would have lasted in comparison to the pull of imprinting with Isa?" Edward questioned.

Silence met Edward's words.

"Don't tell me you feel nothing for her. I hear the jealousy in your thoughts when she's near another male, even Sam."

"You know nothing about me and Isa."

"Tell that to that little piece of you that wants to rip me apart for even daring to touch her shoulder. Or just saying her name." Silence. "What no witty come back?"

There was a small laugh as I lay down, curling in a ball near the tent door, my nose buried in my tail so that the snow wouldn't be driven into my eyes. I wasn't sure if I should put much stock in Jacob's answers or rather lack of them. But I did make me feel both happy he felt that way and sad because he hadn't imprinted back.

'Maybe Leah's right, female wolves are messed up,' I thought sadly, destined to never be happy…

A/N: As always reviews are helpful and always welcome. Hopefully another year will not pass before the next chapter comes a long. Thanks for reading.

Brandy_L