A/N:
I made it and I didn't even have to make it a short chapter! :)
I can't say enough how much I appreciate the favorites, notifications and reviews. Thank-you so much!
Stephanie Meyer owns the rights to Twilight and everything associated with it.
Update: Thank you to my betas beautifulnightmarex andTds88!
Chapter 13: How We Operate
As the early morning hours roll around, Jasper concludes we've done everything possible to prepare for today. Wearily, we go our separate ways to catch a few hours of sleep before the meeting with Seth. Edward insists we stay at Esme and Carlisle's house, so after saying goodbye to Emmett, he takes my hand and leads me to the guest room I woke up in this morning.
Exhausted, I stumble along behind him with jelly legs, concentrating on each step to avoid embarrassing myself as we saunter up the stairs. Walking into the guest room, I eye the bed longingly, but as soon as I hear the door click shut, I find myself encased in Edward's arms, my legs dangling as he holds me tightly.
"Mmmm, I've wanted to do that for hours," he whispers, his words softly moving strands of my hair. I breathe in his scent and wrap my arms around him; he embodies warmth and safety. Putting me down, he grabs my hand and walks over to the bed.
"Come here," he mumbles. Settling himself on the bed, he pulls me with him until I am lying with my head on his chest.
My whole body exhales and my jumbled mind calms as I focus on the peaceful moment. Right now it is only Edward and I. There are no complications or danger, there is just us. We breathe together in silence for several moments before Edward speaks.
"Favorite song, go," he says with surprising enthusiasm given our lack of sleep.
"What?" I ask confused.
"I'm too wired to sleep and I really want to talk to you." He lightly kisses my head and softly runs his hand down my arm that is currently draped across his body.
"Really?" His declaration pulls me from the depths of exhaustion, butterflies filling my stomach. We've exposed our histories to each other, but we've not had time to just be Edward and Bella.
"Yes, really. In the middle of all this craziness, something great happened; you and me. I feel like we haven't savored it. I've waited a long time for you, and despite everything that's going on, we deserve this moment. We deserve to just be us," he whispers, verbalizing my earlier thought.
"Um, I don't really have a favorite song," I admit.
Gently shifting me over, he turns on his side to face me. "What? How can you not have a favorite song? Don't you like music?" he asks skeptically.
Turning to mimic his position and curling my hand under my head, I continue. "Oh, I love music, that's the problem. I have an incredibly eclectic taste when it comes to music. My favorites tend to shift with my mood so it's impossible to narrow it down to just one."
"Interesting. Should I be afraid of your iPod?"
"Depends on what scares you. My iPod is an exercise in OCD." I laugh at his dumbfounded expression. "I'm a bit neurotic about my playlists. I organize songs by years, cities they remind me of, and most importantly, moods. I basically have a playlist for almost every event in my life. It's kind of pathetic actually. How about you?" I ask.
While I explain my answer, Edward smiles widely with a look difficult to describe, but it causes me to feel warm inside. He reaches over to push my hair behind my ear contemplating my question.
"Ah well like you, Swan, I have a range of tastes, but I do not organize my songs. I either listen to whole albums at a time or put the whole damn thing on shuffle and take it as it comes. But I would say my favorite is Hallelujah, the Jeff Buckley version. It's just so raw, it speaks to me I guess." As I return his smile, the room fills with a comfortable silence, both of us absorbing the sight of the other.
"Okay," he says once again breaking the silence. "Favorite memory with your mom?" My body stiffens slightly.
"It helps," he whispers, answering my unspoken question about why he is taking the conversation in this direction.
Staring into Edward's eyes, I consider his own history. We both understand loss and Edward is offering me another step towards healing.
"When I was five, during a particularly rainy week, my Mom decided to try to chase the clouds away by painting our entire living room. We turned it into a sunflower field with a blue sky and a yellow sun. It took us all weekend to finish it. She let me paint a bunch of the flowers which I am sure were a big old mess. I just remember her smile while she was painting, she seemed so happy. It was a great couple of days." The memory brings a smile to my face.
"Your mom loved you a lot," Edward whispers. "So you got to live in your own personal sunflower field?"
"Um no. When I came home from school the following Monday, it was back to normal. I assume Aro made her change it. I shudder to think about what he did to her as punishment," I murmur, the smile falling.
"Don't do that, baby. Don't let him take the good memories too. Hold onto that great day. That's what your mom would want you to remember. She did it for you, and you loved it. That's what mattered to her."
I nod my head knowing he is right. My mom loved me and no one, not even Aro, can take that away. We lay quietly for several more minutes before Edward continues with his questions.
"Ideal date?" Edward asks, switching topics to a lighter subject.
"Why, Cullen, are you going to ask me out on a date?" I infer from his posed question, butterflies erupting again at the thought.
"Hey, I didn't say anything about asking you on a date. I'm simply gathering information, learning about the beautiful woman in front of me." I look down embarrassed, my skin heated by his unabashed compliment.
Clearing my throat to focus, I answer. "Um, I'm really a low-maintenance girl. I think the perfect date is lying on a blanket and watching the stars, maybe sharing a bottle of wine."
"Seriously?" Edward asks, looking off into the distance seemingly lost in thought. Suddenly, he jumps out of the bed and moves towards the door.
"Where are you going?" I question while sitting up, confused by his unexpected movement.
"Don't go anywhere. I'll be right back," he says with a giddy tone. There is a sparkle in his eye as he runs out of the door with a wide smile.
After he leaves, I fall back against the pillow, unable to contain my own smile. I close my eyes and pray this is real, that I won't wake up and have this moment taken. I gently shake my head reflecting on the day. I've filled more events and extreme emotions into these past several days then some people experience in a lifetime. I guess I can't say my life is boring.
Several minutes pass before Edward rushes back in carrying what looks like a globe.
"I can't believe I still have this and it works too!" he says excitedly.
"What are you talking about?" I ask, completely confused but amused by his childlike enthusiasm.
"Well, given the hour, sharing wine is probably not advisable, but stars I can do." He winks, plugging in the device and turning off the lights. Immediately, thousands of tiny stars illuminate the walls and ceiling.
"Oh my god!" I am stunned at the sight. Coming back to bed, Edward pulls me into the position we started in, my head nestled close to his heart.
"I use to have a fascination with astronomy. The last Christmas I had with my parents, they bought me this star globe with all the constellations. They wanted me to have access to the stars even on cloudy days, which in Seattle, as you know, occur a lot." He laughs quietly, the love for his parents obvious in his reminiscent tone.
"That's really sweet," I whisper.
"Yeah, my parents were great. I probably kept it because it's one of their last gifts to me. Although my Mom would probably not approve of me using it to seduce this women I really like," he whispers, leaning down to kiss my head.
"Is that what you're doing? Seducing me?" I question, feigning shock but scooting closer.
"Do you want me to seduce you?" he counters, deflecting his response.
"I don't know, maybe," I whisper coyly, stretching up a bit more.
In an instant, our mouths collide, waves of overwhelming sensations engulf me, our limbs tangling. There is a power in Edward's touch that is indescribable comforting and exhilarating all at the same time. His lips move across my face and down my neck, lighting up my body when he touches a particularly sensitive spot. Rolling until he is over me, I sink into the bed feeling the pressure of his body pushing into mine. His hands tangle in my hair, soft moans filling the air. I am flying.
Minutes pass in heated exploration before Edward pulls back breathing heavy and lightly places his forehead against mine.
"Baby, we need to slow down. This was not my intention tonight." His eyes close, kissing me lightly once more before shifting and again pulling me over to our original position.
Although surprised by the aggressive nature of our behavior, I hesitate to respond, wanting to hear his explanation for stopping first, my anxiety peaking at the possible rejection. Sudden silence fills the room, and I can almost hear him thinking about his next statement.
"I've thought of being with you a million times, and now to have you here, you can't know how much this means to me. The reality is so much better." He smiles, looking at me with that same indescribable look. I breathe easier knowing he feels it too.
"But, I want to do this right. You deserve more than a rushed night after an incredibly emotional day in my Aunt and Uncle's house no less. I want time to show you how important you are to me. Most importantly, I don't want it be a goodbye." He chokes on the last words, reality crashing our peaceful moment.
Tears fill my eyes, and it's hard to know if it is the heartfelt nature of his words or the cold reality of leaving Seattle that is causing them. He is right, this is too important to rush. Logically I know both of us have baggage to navigate and overcome if we want this relationship to survive. I don't want temporary with Edward. Unlike before, the lingering silence is awkward as we both lie still, lost in thought.
"I should probably let you get ready for bed. Esme left some clothes and other essentials in the bathroom for you," Edward says. I glance towards the bathroom. Changing out of these clothes does sound incredibly good. Sitting up, I move to get off of the bed at the same time Edward does.
I watch him with questioning eyes as he moves once again towards the door. "I have some extra clothes in my old bedroom, so I am just going to go and-"
"Will you come back?" I ask quietly, not sure if I can stomach being alone right now. He looks at me with a crooked smile.
"Where else would I go? Get ready for bed, and I'll be back before you know it." I smile in relief as I watch him leave.
After freshening up and changing into pajamas, I lay back down in the bed looking around the room, the stars still glowing. A few minutes pass before I hear the soft click of the door opening and closing. Edward shuffles in wearing basketball shorts and a t-shirt. It is amazing how good he looks in such simple clothes. My heart rate increases at the sight, especially knowing he's here with me.
Pulling back the covers on the other side of the bed, Edward slips in, our bodies naturally drawn together, my back snuggled into his chest and his arms secured around me.
"Where were we?" he softly questions. "Favorite movie, go."
We go back and forth for several more minutes, sharing interesting facts and stories in the soft glow of the room until my eyes, heavy with exhaustion, refuse to stay open.
I slowly stir, taking a moment to gather my bearings. Something woke me up, but I'm not sure what. I'm incredibly warm with Edward still wrapped around me and sleeping soundly. What time is it? I wonder, locating the clock by the bed. My body is fighting my attempt to wake up, still exhausted by too little sleep and too much stress. I hear a loud knocking at the door.
"Come on you two, wakey wakey!" Emmett bellows. "Everyone decent?" He laughs at his own question. Moving out from under Edward, I stagger to the door.
"What the hell, Emmett, it's only seven!" I grumble, annoyed.
"Well, good morning, sunshine! Come on, Jasper wants to go over some things before we meet Seth, so let's go. Up and at em'!" he says.
Looking over my shoulder, he suddenly rushes past me and jumps on Edward, reminding me of two kids at summer camp. I try to control my laughter as I watch Edward spring up disoriented.
"Fuck, Emmett, what the hell!" Edward moves to push him, but Emmett jumps out of the bed before he can make contact. Edward settles on flipping him off instead.
"Come on, lover boy, let's go. Lots to do!" Emmett says as Edward gets out of bed and stretches. Walking towards me, he pulls me into a hug.
"This is not how I hoped to wake up this morning," he whispers in my ear before pulling back just enough to give me a chaste kiss. "I better get ready. Esme found you some clothes for today, right?"
"Yes, thank goodness. I don't think anyone would want me around if I had to put on my clothes from yesterday again…shut it!" I say quickly to Emmett as he starts to open his mouth to add his own comment about my lack of hygiene.
"I don't know if that's true." Edward winks.
"Oh Jesus, is this what I have to look forward to? I take back every good thought about the two of you getting together. You guys don't mind gagging noises right? 'Cause I may do a lot of that now," Emmett says sarcastically, but his wide smile and bright colors reveal how he truly feels. Emmett is, first and foremost, a loyal and supportive friend.
"Ha ha, okay everyone out so I can get ready." I giggle as I watch Edward and Emmett playfully shove each other down the hallway. Turning, I walk to bathroom to take a long-awaited shower, which will hopefully wake me up.
The time flies quickly between breakfast, last-minute discussions and equipment checks. Like yesterday, everyone kept to a silent agreement to not discuss the case at breakfast, treating me once again to the warmth of a loving family meal.
Carlisle and Esme are obviously supportive of the career track Edward took, but as the morning went on, it was clear neither had witnessed the preparation for a mission. Esme dealt with her anxiety with motherly gestures; making sure we had everything and asking if we wanted to take water or snacks with us. I couldn't help but imagine a 50's housewife sending her kids off to school, except instead of making sure we had our lunches, it was making sure we had our ammunition.
Driving toward Pike Place Market, I go over the plan in my head one more time. Although it is not complicated, it helps to ease my anxiety. Until I see Seth, it is hard to know exactly what I am walking into, so we are taking all the precautions possible.
Each of us is rigged with an earpiece to allow for constant communication. I am also equipped with a hidden camera, the video feed going directly to everyone's phones. This will allow Edward, Emmett and Jasper to watch the interaction with Seth, and through the ear piece, provide any thoughts or suggestions.
Edward made me promise to signal them if I sense any trouble, whether it is from Seth or someone else. He and Emmett know I plan to also assess those in the store for any sign of an accomplice or James' presence.
Edward is doing his best to hide his concern, but as the time draws nears, I catch him looking at me with worried glances. We may have faced dangerous individuals in the interrogation room more times than I can count, but this is the first time I have participated in an active mission. I know I've faced worse, but that does not calm my pounding heart.
The adrenaline pumping through my body has effectively fought off any tiredness I felt earlier. I take a breath, focusing my mind on the task at hand. This is game-mode time. I need to push all of my feelings away and focus on the target. I can't let anything distract me or blur my concentration.
Emmett also gave me some security before we left in the form of a gun. It is currently tucked safely in the waistband of my jeans under my shirt, and although I hope I won't need it, having it there gives me a sense of control. If the worst happens, and this is trap for James to grab me, he has one hell of a fight ahead of him because I won't go easily. Before I know it, we are pulling into a parking garage located three blocks from Starbucks, the clock indicating it is 9:36.
It's game time.
Checking the microphones, ear pieces and camera one more time, everyone sets off as planned. Jasper will be located in the store with me, while Emmett and Edward will remain outside guarding the entrances. Since Seth hacked into the FBI systems and knows Felix's case, chances are he would spot them right away whereas Jasper is hopefully an unknown. Jasper also gave us pictures of James and some other key Seattle players to use to scan the crowd. However, everyone knows given the size of the Volturi Corporation, if someone is here doing their dirty work, we will most likely not know who it is until something happens. After the boys do a preliminary assessment of the scene and get situated, I will go in last.
I stand by the SUV nervously biting my nails waiting for the signal. As planned, Jasper enters the shop first, checking for familiar faces. Edward and Emmett successfully place themselves next, assessing the crowd around the building. I listen in as Jasper clears the shop and Edward and Emmett clear the street.
"It's go time, Bella." Jasper's disembodied voice comes through my ear. Walking briskly out of the garage, I turn left and move in the direction of the store. My senses are on heightened alert as I carefully watch everyone around me.
"I'm on your six, Bella," Emmett says.
"I thought you were already in place?" I mumble, trying not to cause attention to my lips in case Seth is watching.
"I scoped it out, but we didn't have a good feeling about you walking solo." I smile at his protectiveness. This part was heavily debated, but if Seth planned on watching for my approach, we didn't want him to know I wasn't alone. I guess they decided it was worth the risk.
I slow down as I approach the historical building. There are two doors into the Starbucks; the main entrance and the side door leading to an outdoor patio. Edward is stationed across the street of the main door, near the entrance of Pike Place Market, whereas Emmett is across from the side entrance.
"There are three guys in the store who are alone," Jasper whispers as I turn the corner and open the door.
The familiar smell of coffee engulfs my senses. Calming indie music is playing in the background while employees bustle around. As usual the store is busy, animated discussions happening at various tables. At first glance, no one seems suspicious or out-of-place. I look around hoping to catch the signs of recognition in one of the solitary men.
A young man sitting in the back by the table closest to the side door grabs my attention. His thin framed body sits hunched over the table causing a wisp of his unkempt hair to fall into his eyes. He is folding and unfolding a napkin, his chair slightly shaking due to the constant bounce of his leg. Next to the chair sits a worn, black laptop bag covered in faded stickers and markings. However, it is a faded R in the front that catches my eye.
Reaper
As I move closer, the young man looks up to meet my eyes. His body lights up when he recognizes me. Anxiously, he stands up waiting for me to reach the table. The anxiety drains from my body as I watch him. Seth is harmless.
"Found him," I whisper, pretending to hold up my hand to cough. "I think it's okay." I'm hoping Emmett and Edward understand the significance of the statement.
"The one standing up? Jesus, he's a kid," Emmett comment. For a moment I'd forgotten about the camera. He's right; Seth can't be any older than nineteen.
"Keep your guard up, Bella. Don't take any chances," Edward warns.
"Isabella! You actually came," Seth says as I reach his table. He motions to the other chair for me to sit as we awkwardly stare at each other.
"I came," I state simply, wanting him to take the lead in the conversation.
I watch him pick up the napkin from earlier, folding and unfolding it again. He looks nervously around, his mouth busily chewing gum.
"I can't believe I'm sitting with Aro Volturi's long-lost daughter. If you only knew how many people are looking for you, and I beat all of them," he states, the hair standing up on my neck as he casually talks about the people after me.
"Keep sharp, Bella, I don't like the direction of this," Edward hisses. I understand his concern, but looking at Seth, I don't think his intentions match the tone of his words. Like our earlier conversation, he appears oblivious to how his words come across.
"I've wanted to talk to you since I saw you on that tape, but now that you're here…do you want something to drink?" he asks quickly.
"No, I'm okay."
"Did you know that New Yorkers drink almost seven times more coffee than any other city in the United States?" Seth blurts out suddenly.
"Um, no," I respond caught off guard by his question.
I focus on Seth's colors and behaviors. He's drenched in nervousness, but I also take note of several other things. He continually looks around the room, particularly at people, and when someone walks by him to go out the door, his anxiety peaks. His leg continues to bounce, but it is the napkin that grabs my clinical attention. There is a repetitive and obsessive nature to his anxious movements.
Fold 1,2,3,4,5.
Unfold 1,2,3,4,5.
He places the napkin on the table and smooths it out, his hands brushing over it, 1,2,3,4,5.
Then it starts all over again. Seth has a ritual.
"Legend has it a 9th-century Ethiopian goat herder discovered coffee by accident when he noticed how crazy the beans were making his goats," he adds in a manic fashion.
"Does the kid have the Wikipedia coffee page memorized? What is his deal?" Emmett asks.
"Hey, Seth, I'm nervous too," I say trying to get his attention.
I'm developing a better understanding of his behavior and strange speech patterns. He reminds me of the youths I use to work with; an innocent light surrounded by rough edges. An unexpected wave of protectiveness washes over me as I think about him trying to take on the Volturi. Seth is in way over his head, and we need to help him.
"You don't look like Aro. You must look like your mother," he blurts out again.
"That's probably the best compliment anyone could give me," I respond lightly, trying to help decrease his unease.
"Do you know humans and cabbage share between forty and fifty percent of common DNA?" Apparently Seth copes with his anxiety not only through rituals, but through logical facts.
"What the fuck?" Emmett questions.
I imagine Seth's comfort lies in tangible data. It is probably why he is so good with computers but finds social situations and emotions difficult. I need to help him focus if we are going to get anywhere in this discussion.
"Tell me about your moniker, Seth. Why Reaper?" Seth's face lights up as confidence shines through the anxiety.
"Because I categorically bring death to computer system firewalls. My area of expertise is breaking into the unbreakable." He proudly smiles at me.
"And that's how you hacked into my computer?"
"Oh, that was straightforward, but it was the best way to contact you on the down-low."
"Because you think we should work together to get Aro," I state, hoping to turn the conversation toward his connection to the Volturi.
"It's the most logical solution. I knew when I saw you that you could give me the information I need to break through his systems. They are the most complicated ones I've tried to breach. Once I break those walls, I can create havoc. He won't know what hit him."
"Okay, I understand what you want to do, but I don't understand why you want to do it."
Seth suddenly looks down, sadness overcoming him. "He murdered my parents. I have to avenge them," he whispers, and for the first time anger colors the conversation and his tone.
"What happened to your parents, Seth?" I find myself using my psychologist's voice; calm and collected, gently probing him in the right direction to share information.
"Um, my dad owned a security company in Italy. His specialty was developing security systems for corporations. He was a genius and developed some unique programs. Aro wanted to use what he developed to take over companies, but my dad refused to work with him." He pauses for a moment.
Fold, unfold, smooth, 1,2,3,4,5.
"According to the police report, my parents' death was a result of a murder suicide. My father, believing my mother was having an affair, shot her in his office, started a fire and then shot himself. His office burned to the ground."
"When did that happen, Seth?" I ask cautiously.
"Um, 16 years ago. I was three. My mom was American, so afterwards I went to live with my aunt in Texas."
"How do you know all of this if you were so young?"
"My mom religiously wrote my aunt letters. When I was in high school, I found a bunch them. Right around the time of their murder, she wrote about Aro and my father's concern something was going to happen. My aunt always told me she never believed the reports. She said my dad loved us too much to kill my mom and leave me. So I started using my computer skills to find the truth and gather information about Aro." He leans over, and reaching into the front pocket of his bag, pulls out a worn picture.
"This is the last picture I have of my Dad. My mom sent it to my aunt about a week before their death. According to the letter, the guy is someone who was trying to help them. I guess he was also teaching me soccer. My dad said I was born with a computer mouse in my hand, but my mom wanted me to try new things."
I take the picture and as soon as I look at it my stomach drops. Staring back at me from the worn photo is the face of Jacob Black. He is kneeling next to a young Seth holding a soccer ball. Seth's father is standing behind them with a huge smile on his face.
What the hell was Jake doing with this family?
"I've tried to find him, but my aunt didn't know his name and I haven't had any luck searching for pictures of him. Do you recognize him?"
The picture shakes slightly as I look at it, not knowing how to respond. I am not ready to tell him I know his identity.
"Bella? You okay?" Edward questions. He must have noticed the shake in my hand through the camera.
"Don't lose focus, Bella. You need to convince him to talk to us," Jasper warns. Forcing myself to push all questions about Jake to the side, I finally respond to Seth, but avoid answering the question.
"I think you're right, Seth. I think we can help each other, but there is something I need you to do for me first."
"What?" he asks slowly, suspicion seeping through. Crap. Calling again upon my persuasive doctor's voice, I hope I can get him to agree.
"I need you to talk to some friends of mine. They came with me and-"
What I was not ready for, given Seth's small and vulnerable stature, is his fierce determination to flee. As soon as the words "came with me" pass through my lips, he shoots out of his chair and grabs his bag in one fluid motion. Pivoting in a move rivaling professional basketball players, I watch helplessly as Seth maneuvers around other customers and dashes out the side door.
"He's running!" I yell, warning Edward and Emmett.
"Shit, Emmett, he's coming towards you. Grab him!" Jasper says.
Jumping up after him, I reach the door in time to witness Seth leap over the fence. Out of the corner of my eye, I see Emmett closing in, moving quickly but also trying not to cause attention to his presence. The sidewalk has more traffic than when I arrived. People busily trying to reach their destinations unaware of the brewing situation.
There is a group of children separating Emmett and Seth; they look about five or six years old, most likely on a field trip. As if sensing the trap, Seth spots Emmett stalking him through the crowd. His anxiety magnifies as he stares at Emmett who moves quicker now that Seth has spotted him. Making a decision, Seth suddenly switches from anxiety to determination.
Shit, he has a plan.
Times slows as my mind tracks every detail of the scene, the subtle shifts in movement and the hectic colors. In a desperate split second decision, Seth starts to make his move just as I realize his plan.
"Seth! No!" I scream, running out the door.
With adrenaline fueled strength, Seth grabs the man closest to him. The abrupt action causes the stranger's balance to falter, giving Seth the upper hand and using him as a human battering ram; Seth thrusts him into the crowd. The man stumbles, falling on several of the children. A thunderous crash echoing as they hit the concrete. Chaos ensues, the surrounding crowd rushing to help the kids. The mayhem effectively blocks Emmett's path giving Seth an opportunity to bolt down the street.
"Fuck! Go!" Emmett screams in frustration.
Whirling to the left, I jump over the fence to chase Seth down the street. The stunt allows him to gain more than a half a block's lead. My lungs burn as I sprint down the sidewalk, trying to keep up my speed and avoid people at the same time. Out of nowhere, Edward passes me. Running at full speed and with practiced agility, Edward weaves in and out of the crowd remarkably gaining on Seth. Glancing quickly over my shoulder, I find both Emmett and Jasper also sprinting in our direction.
Seth, managing to stay slightly ahead of Edward, makes a sudden break to the left running down a street at the end of the next block. Pushing harder to catch up, Emmett, Jasper and I turn down the street and find Edward attempting to jump up the side of the building on the corner.
"God damn it! Get down from there!" he screams.
Looking at the building Edward is jumping at, the four of us stare in amazement as Seth scales a worn drain pipe to the third story ledge. The five-story dilapidated building is a strange combination. The bottom houses a bustling nail salon, while the upper stories appear unoccupied, most of the windows are covered with boards and the few exposed are broken and dark.
"I was this close to grabbing his ankle. He's too goddamn fast." Edward leans over placing his hands on his knees winded from his sprint.
Seth continues to climb until just above the minuscule ledge and reaching his toes down, he releases the pipe. I hold my breath as I watch him precariously teeter on the edge. Grasping the cracks in the stone building with his fingers for traction, he slowly starts inching his way over to a fire escape. One slip and he will fall thirty feet to the sidewalk below.
"Christ, does this kid think he's Spiderman?" Emmett questions.
"Okay, any ideas?" Jasper inquires. All of our focus is on Seth as he inches his way towards safety and possible escape.
"I don't think that drain pipe is going to hold any of us and I'm sure as hell not stepping on that ledge." Emmett scoffs.
"Watch him, Jasper. Tell us where he goes in. Come on, Emmett, let's find a way into that building," Edward commands taking the lead.
I follow Emmett and Edward around the corner and into the nail salon. Not wasting any time, Edward flashes his badge and demands to know how to get upstairs. A frightened salon worker walks us to the back of the store and points to a door in the narrow hallway.
"That leads upstairs but the landlord is the only one with a key. I could call him," she stutters.
"He just broke into a third story window," Jasper's voice says in our ears.
"We don't have time for this, stand back," Edward yells at the employee, and with impressive force, kicks the door open almost taking it right off the hinges.
"Hey!" she yells. "You can't do that!"
"Bill us," Emmett responds as we rush the stairs quickly reaching the second floor. "We need to split up and check each floor. Who knows how quickly he moved," Emmett states rationally. I nod in agreement while Edward shakes his head looking at me with concern.
"We can cover more ground if we each take a floor," I suggest looking directly at Edward, knowing he doesn't want me going by myself. "We don't have time to argue, we need to find him."
Taking a deep breath, Edward reluctantly concedes knowing logically there is no other option. Switching back to his agent persona, he organizes a plan of attack. "Okay, Emmett take the fourth floor, I'll take the third, and Bella you go to the fifth. If he's heading down he's looking to get out of the building, Jasper you copy?"
"Yup, I'm here."
"Keep your eyes out, man. He may come back out."
"Got it."
"Okay, let's go. Bella, watch your back and check in!" Edward says as we run up the stairs, both of them breaking off at their assigned floors as I continue running up.
"Jasper, look sharp, there is another way in. The third floor is covered with drug paraphernalia. People were here recently." Edward's voice booms through the earpiece breaking the silence.
"I'm on the corner. He has to come out one side or another. The back is right up against another building. I'll spot him," Jasper responds.
"Everyone watch your step, there are needles everywhere," Edward adds. His breath is still heavy, the adrenaline pumping through all our veins.
"Jesus Christ!" I hear Emmett exclaim.
"Did you find him?" Jasper jumps in.
"Not yet, but if anyone is interested in some lovely crack house real estate, I have a spacious offering for you on the fourth floor." I roll my eyes at his sarcastic comment as I round the last turn for fifth floor. "Oh wait, let me revise my last statement, make that crack-whore real estate judging by the used condoms all over the floor. Safety first, people."
"Emmett, will you shut up!" Edward growls. "Bella, talk to me. Where are you?"
"I just got to the fifth floor, I'm good."
Reaching my destination, I fling open the stairwell door and rush in finding myself suddenly shrouded in darkness as the door clicks shut behind me.
Maybe this wasn't such a good plan.
Apparently, the fifth floor window boards are intact, keeping the room encased in black shadows. I creep into the cavernous space, hoping my eyes adjust quickly. There is an unnatural glow coming from small spaces between the boards over the windows and the wall. Not enough to see the room, but enough to define its dimensions. The room feels dank; the smell of mold and mildew overwhelming my senses.
I slowly pull the gun from my side and level it in front of me while clumsily pulling out my phone. Fumbling, I finally find the flashlight app. It is awkward holding both objects, but the uncomfortable nature of the grip is worth the added security of the gun.
The flashlight illuminates several feet in front of me, but the area is small and contained, leaving the surrounding areas mercilessly black. My anxiety peaks, images of ridiculous horror film scenes filling my thoughts. Ones I yell at the screen for, irate at the character's stupidity. Yet here I am, running into the darkness instead of away. I nervously glance around convinced that in shadows lies a creature watching my every move, waiting for the perfect time to strike.
My heart hammers against my chest as I maneuver around, the beat pounding in my ears. The silence is eerie, my ears keenly listening for any movement. Several feet from the stairwell door, I come to a separate room, most likely an office as the open nature of this floor lends itself to some sort of loft or warehouse.
I slink along the wall and peer inside. The added barriers prevent any muted light from the door frames or window boards to enter, making the space impossibly dark.
Fuck.
My logical side once again berates my impending stupidity as I gather the courage to plunge into the room. Illuminating the room by small segments, I see my assumption is correct. Stacks of boxes and old papers are in the corner next to a broken wooden desk. I am moving carefully around the room when my earpiece comes to life.
"Status," Jasper barks.
"Still checking the fourth floor. No sign of monkey boy," Emmett quips.
"Same, lots of rooms to check on the third, but so far no sign," Edward chimes in.
"Still checking," I whisper focused on my task.
"Bella, why are you whispering, is someone there? Are you okay?" Edward asks panic tingeing his voice.
"No, I'm okay, I'm just concentrating," I explain.
Telling Edward about the dark nature of the room will only cause distraction and right now he needs to stay focused. The last thing I want is for Edward to get hurt because he is too concerned about me to pay attention to his own surroundings. Besides, logically I know when push comes to shove, I can take care of myself.
"Keep talking to me, Bella. I need to know you're okay," Edwards requests.
"Okay, but I'm fine. Focus on you," I counter. Although I know I can take care of myself, hearing his voice helps ground me, knowing we are still connected and he is close.
Turning to check the far right corner, I suddenly feel something grab for my ankle. I spin around and in my haste to get away, fall backwards over a stack of papers. My phone slides across the concrete. My grip failing as I hit the ground, the glow from the light almost nonexistent as it lands upside down. I watch it spin like a top before stopping. Trying to calm my breath, I lie still listening for the sounds of my would-be attacker.
"Seth?" I whisper, hoping my reading of him is correct and he is not out to harm me. I hear a faint rustling in front of me, but straining my eyes through the darkness, I cannot see any movement.
Quietly sitting up, I raise the gun, while slowly scooting my body towards my phone. Reaching out, I maneuver it closer with my fingers until I can grab it and quickly swing it around toward the noise.
The space in front of me lights up revealing boxes and papers but nothing more. Confused, I duck my head looking closer between the boxes preparing myself to find Seth or some other person. I hear the rustling again, but can't see the source. Wondering if I am crazy, I finally spot movement by the middle stack of papers. I move the light closer when suddenly a rat runs past me and out the door. Relived by the ridiculous situation, I laugh, wondering if maybe I am in the middle of a cliché horror film.
"Bella?" Three voices question simultaneously.
"I'm fine," I reply containing my laugher "A rat just scared the crap out of me," I explain, getting up off the floor. I hear Emmett chuckle.
"Watch out for those, they will get you every time," he utters.
Satisfied Seth is not in the room, I move out into the larger space. Like the office, boxes and papers cover the floor as well as old equipment. Moving towards the windows, I hear a voice muttering quietly in the corner.
"Seth?" I question pointing the light in the direction of the noise. "Seth, I don't want to hurt you. Please, talk to me."
His anxious muttering continues without acknowledging my presence or request. Moving forward, the light finally reaches the corner, Seth coming into view. He is sitting with his knees up, his arms securely around them. He is holding a piece of paper in his hand. Putting the gun away in an effort to show him I'm not a threat, I move forward with my hands slightly raised.
"I'm almost done and then I am heading up to you, Bella," Edward says.
"He's here. Hang back for a few so I can talk to him first," I whisper. Colored in panic, I watch Seth fold and unfold a worn newspaper he found on the floor.
"I'm coming up!" Edward responds stubbornly.
Damn it, that doesn't give me much time. Reaching the wall, I sink down next to Seth and lay the light between us. He tenses looking over at me.
"Do you know Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Alternaria are the four most common types of household molds and ten percent of the United States population is allergic?" he asks.
"I didn't, but I will always remember it now." I smile softly at him. "I didn't mean to scare you," I say apologetically.
"I thought you understood. I wanted to work with just you. I don't like talking to a lot of people, especially cops," he states.
"I understand, but I don't think we can do it alone. Honestly, Seth, I wish you would stay out of it all together, but since I know you won't, we need all the help we can get."
"You really trust them?"
"I really do. I think together we stand a chance. I finally understand what you meant earlier, we do have a lot in common and maybe this is a chance for both of us to find peace."
Seth looks at me with wide soulful eyes and nods in agreement. Although we barely know each other, both of us feel connected. We are survivors of Aro's terror, and not too many people can understand what that is like.
"What do we do next?"
"Well, I need to get out of Seattle for a bit, and you need to help my friends find the mole."
"Wait, can't I go with you?" he asks, looking panicked.
"Um, not right now, but I will make sure we see each other soon." I promise, watching him fold and unfold the paper.
"Bella!" Edward shouts accompanied by the sound of a door slamming open.
"Fuck, it's dark," Emmett says shortly after.
"Bella?" Edward asks again as I notice to beams of light coming from the entrance.
"We're over here," I answer waving my phone in the air as a point of reference. Edward rushes over, his eyes gazing over my body looking for sign of injury. I smile at him in reassurance.
"Guys, meet Seth. Seth, this is Edward and Emmett. They are much less intimidating than they seem."
"Next time an officer tells you to stop, you better fucking stop! That was a stupid stunt you pulled!" Edward chastises. I cut my eyes to him silently communicating to back off.
"Don't worry about Edward. His bark is worse than his bite," I say to Seth, who is looking at both Edward and Emmett with trepidation.
"Hey kid, what's up, I hear you have some serious computer skills," Emmett jumps in and I smile. Leave it to Emmett to know what to say; he was obviously paying attention my conversation with Seth.
"I have exceptional computer skills. I'm one of the best," Seth asserts.
"Well, those are just the type of skills we need. What do you say, kid, want to join our team?" Emmett asks.
"If it means taking down Aro, I guess I'm in, but for the record I'm only working with you because Isabella asked. I don't like working with cops. They slow my process down," Seth states, his anxiety slowly decreasing.
"You're in luck, because we are off the radar for this mission. I think your, um, unique ability is going to come in handy." Emmett holds out his hand to Seth who looks at it a moment before taking it and allowing Emmett to pull him up.
"You need back-up?" Jasper asks through the earpiece.
"No. We're coming back down," Edward replies. He reaches out his hand to pull me up and as soon as I am standing he wraps his arms around me. "I'm not happy with you. Why didn't you tell us it was so dark up here?" he whispers in my ear.
I pull back and look at him. "I knew you'd worry and I wanted you to watch out for yourself. Besides, I'm a big girl," I retort as the group starts moving toward the exit.
Seth is following behind Emmett who obviously made a positive impression on him. Edward gently grabs my arm, stopping our movement.
"I know you can take care of yourself, but I have some plans that I kind of need you around to make happen. So, can we limit the risk-taking please?" he requests leaning down to give me a kiss.
"Yes, sir," I answer, rolling my eyes playfully, taking his hand and following the group down the stairs.
Jasper is waiting for us in the salon along with the irate employee. He is handing her some cash, which I assume is for the door along with his card. As we walk outside, Emmet and Jasper flank Seth in case he decides to run again.
The parking garage is across from the building, so the walk back to the SUV is short. There is little talk as we all pile into the vehicle. Each of us is lost in our own thoughts and contemplating what comes next. I look back and smile reassuringly at Seth as we pull out of the garage.
"Okay, Bella, we've got to get you out of Seattle," Jasper announces as the SUV turns onto the street.
Edward grabs my hand and squeezes. Turning my head in his direction, his eyes capture mine as he tries to communicate everything left unspoken. The lump in my throat builds, watching fear and sadness flash in his eyes.
It's time to say goodbye.
Until next time…
A big shout out to Google maps for allowing me to run around the streets of Seattle planning the scene with Seth! ;)