Switching Covens: Chapter 14

An Old Acquaintance: Bella's POV

I settled down in the crook formed by two branches in an oak tree. I was waiting for Edward to finish hunting. It was nice being in the wilderness not worrying about our appearances. It was also nice being in the forest with Edward on our way to Europe. Edward remembered my deep desire to travel the world, so he suggested we make the most of our time. Edward wanted us to start with European countries and then work our way from there.

Edward hinted that he wanted to stop for a quick hunt when we arrived in Michigan. The state park had quite a number of deer in it. They weren't my favorite prey, but it was better than going thirsty.

I heard a soft rustle to my left. My body automatically stiffened and my head snapped in the direction of the sound. I softly but swiftly lept from my spot in the tree and followed the noise.

I caught up to the source in less than a minute. I was face to face with a dark haired vampire that appeared to be transformed around the age of forty. My stomach jumped into my throat as I said his name. "Laurent."

"Nice to see you again, Bella."

"How have you been?" I asked, unable to think clearly. What was I supposed to sa? I haven't seen him since my conflict with James and Victoria.

"Better than before. It wouldn't have been long before they turned on us. The only reason it didn't happen sooner was because with us the numbers were in their favor."

"Yeah, I figured that as well. Besides, I like this existence a lot more." I smiled thinking of how choosing this life over my past one lead me to my beloved.

He looked confused for a moment before he noticed my eyes. "You're… feeding on animals?"

I nodded. "It helps you keep your priorities straight."

Before he could comment, Edward was at my side. His stance was tense; his eyes taking in every minute detail. I guess he ranked Laurent as a threat because of James.

I put my hand on his shoulder. "It's alright, Edward."

He kept his eyes on Laurent. I sighed and shot him an apologetic look. Laurent just chuckled slightly as he ran a hand down the back of his neck. "I guess I understand your mate's discomfort based on the crowd we ran with. I am curious about the life you're living now… I might have to try it."

I looked at Edward's face and then decided I would try to keep one of my promises. "You know, there is a coven up in Alaska if you want to try it out. Tell them I sent you their way."

He looked thoughtful. "I will. Well, it was nice to see you again, Bella," he looked at Edward, "and, uh, Bella's mate. I must be going now. I'm sure we will meet again." With that being said, he took off running due north.

When I was sure he was gone, I allowed myself to burst out laughing.

"What is it?" Edward asked frustrated. I smiled knowing that his inability to read my mind was what frustrated him.

"He kept referring to you as 'Bella's mate,' and while I love the fact that you are, I find it hilarious that he is not bothering to commit your name to memory even though he has photographic memory."

Edward rolled his eyes. "Come on, my silly love. Let's continue on our journey." He winked at me, a smile playing at his lips. "Where do you want to go first?"

I smiled and grabbed his hand. "Surprise me, but, no matter what, do not take me to Italy."

He nodded. "Good idea."

We took off running again. I was excited to see what was in store for us. I wasn't sure when I had been so at ease. I felt respected, loved, but -most of all- wanted. I never wanted to go back to how I felt merely weeks ago. I was free, and I was loving it.

A/N: I would like to apologize for not writing a long chapter, but the story is coming to a close soon. I'm excited to write the ending, so I'm struggling to tell myself to slow down and stay in the present. I want to thank everyone for sticking through everything and reading my stories. I hope you all have a great evening. Happy reading.

~JerinAnn