Hey guys- THIS IS AN UNEDITED CHAPTER- AGAIN… SORRY!
I notice that many of you didn't really care for the reactions of Bella and Edward in the last chapter… just remember- Ness is still a young teenager to them in many ways. Also, vampire's feelings are intense and never predictable. I was trying to keep it realistic. Sorry if you guys didn't like it. I hope this chapter makes up for it! ;)
I also want to apologize for this update coming in a few hours late. My computer wasn't being very cooperative and I've been fighting with it the majority of the day. But, alas- here it is: the chapter I promised.
Chapter 21
Birthday
"Happy Birthday!" Alice's voice calls to me in the receiver. I smile and close my eyes, imagining her beautiful face beaming as she said the words.
"Thank you!"
"I'm sorry we can't be there but…"
"I understand," I reply; though I really don't. All I know is that the Amazonian tribe is having some issues with their territory; issues that apparently need the expertise of some my family members.
"Esme is bringing our gifts when she comes over later for the party. Jazz can't wait for you to open our gift!"
"Oh?" I ask, wondering when all of that had been arranged. "Thank you but you didn't have to."
"No need to thank us and yes we did. We love you so much. I have to go for now. We all miss you terribly!"
"I miss you all, too! Give everyone a hug for me. Love you"
Talking to Rose, Emmett, and Jasper this morning has me missing their presence, their scents, and their comfort. I wonder what they are going to think of their niece being preggers. Hmmm.
I hop out of bed thinking of their different reactions. We definitely may need to restrain Rose. She could try to kill Jacob… but then again, she could be happy that another baby will be around. The thought has me frowning; my father's terrifying rejection and anger is still too much of a wounded memory.
I shake my head trying not to think of how my father has stayed away from me ever since he has gotten home. The only good thing about that is- Jake hasn't had to face the brutal lecture I'm quite sure my father is going to put him through whenever he's cooled off.
Quickly, I walk into the bathroom, my needs more pressing than usual. A few minutes later, Jake pops his head in; his gaze settling on mine in the mirror as I brush my teeth.
"There's the birthday girl." He greets, his smile flashing brightly against the contrast of his bronzed skin.
"Hey," I reply wetly, my mouth full of foamy toothpaste. It's not fair that he looks so handsome all of the time and I don't. How wonderful I must look with mussed up hair and a frothy mouth. I probably look like a dog with rabies.
His responding smirk has my belly doing flip-flops. God, he is so incredibly beautiful. The toothbrush becomes immobile and pointless in my mouth as I turn and look at him. His obvious beauty is just a violent reminder that I've been "off limits" ever since my accident and news of the pregnancy. Our almost kiss the other morning was the last time he's even gotten close to kissing me on the lips.
Oh, how I miss his lips. His tongue. His… everything.
I sigh heavily with the direction of my thoughts. I can't think about this right now- with my hormones so all over the place lately I can't dwell too much on the fact that he doesn't want me right now.
"I thought you had to work."
"I did," he shrugs, slinking his weight against the bathroom door as he shoves his hands in the pockets of his jeans. "But the guys pretty much have things covered right now."
The guys, I wonder vaguely. Sometimes I forget that Jacob works with a team of hardcore mechanics. All of which he handpicked himself; all of which who could disassemble and reassemble and entire car in a day or two.
I turn and spit out the remaining toothpaste, conscious of how unattractive it must be. Tossing in a mouthful of Listerine, I gargle before spitting once more; a little more gently this time.
Following Jacob out of the bathroom, my eyes seem to have a mind of their own as I look over him from behind. Warmth spreads through me as I watch his back muscles rigidly protest against his white tee-shirt. I bite my lip to try and control a hungry growl that wants to languidly erupt from my dry throat. Unable to look away, I slowly trail my eyes down until they meet his hips, and then the back pockets of his jeans.
Keeping my eyes fastened on him, I watch as the denim clings tightly against the firm physique of his sculpted backside. Mmmm. I remember what his backside looks like as the water from the shower glided greedily over his chiseled skin. The way it felt when I scraped my nails over the muscle and sinew that defines this man when he was inside of me. God… what I could do to him— and right now.
Abruptly, he turns swiftly to face me. I'm caught so off guard that I'm a fumbling mess as I try to not collide into the same body I was just gawking after. Jeez, I'm going to have to find an outlet for all of the pint up sexual frustration that's coursing through me right now if Jacob's going to continue to have me "off limits."
"Whoa!" He calls out before righting me on my feet- and most certainly catching my blush as my eyes slowly ascend to his face.
Oh, God. Great! I'm blushing! I've had all different kinds of sex with this man. I know almost every crevice of his body but here I am back at square one— me waiting for a kiss and blushing when he catches me staring at the appealing parts of his body.
As my eyes settle on his, there is a lightness to them that wasn't there before. An amusing smile surfaces on his lips and I don't know if I want to slap it off or kiss it off.
Kiss it off… yes, I definitely want to kiss it off. Ugh, he's so frustrating! Why won't he just kiss me?
"You've got a lot of emotions going on right now… I'm not sure which one to respond to."
I arch a brow at him. "Personally, I'd like you to respond to—" I begin ready to go into what exactly it is that I want at this moment, but he interrupts before I can say anything else.
"Come" he grabs my hand and begins guiding me out of the bedroom. "I have a present for you."
Does he think I don't notice his distraction techniques? Trying not to grumble at him, I play along "Jake, you don't have to get me anything. I told you—" he stops once more, and once more I almost run into him.
"Don't be like your mother," his tone is frustrated but sincere. "You are everything to me; let me spoil you on your birthday, okay?" I can't help the smile that surfaces on my face in that moment. How could a girl argue with that? "Besides… this is what boyfriends do;" he finishes with a grin; quickly and unintentionally licking his bottom lip. The sight of his tongue has me reeling. The resulting gleam on his mouth has me biting my lip so hard it's painful. It takes everything inside of me not to stand on the tips of my toes to taste him.
I nod my head bemused; already forgotten what he said that had preceded his glorious tongue. He arches one solidly black eyebrow at me and heat singes my cheeks once more as he must know what I'm thinking.
Well, since he already knows… Kiss me, damn it!
Turning to completely face me, he looks over features for a moment, and for that moment I think he's going to actually contemplating something intimate. As his pupils dilate slightly, I notice that his scent alters almost unnoticeably. He wants me… he still wants me! I knew it! Just a few more inches, Jacob… just lean down a few more inches and I'll make everything better.
Abruptly, he takes a cleansing breath in and releases it. The air from his exhalation bends and flexes around my face—calling to me, singing to me, making my mouth water for his.
"Now this is just one of your gifts… there are still two more," he tells me anxiously; picking up my hand and guiding me once more.
What!? How can he just go from an "almost" kiss to acting like nothing was going to happen? I'm practically panting.
"Just kiss me and that would be present enough for me… as a matter of fact, take me back in the bedroom and remind me how I got pregnant in the first place;" I mummer under my breath.
Though I can't be certain if he heard me or not, everything about him stalls for a millisecond. It's almost unnoticeable. In fact, if I were completely human- I wouldn't have noticed it.
Leading me carefully through my living room, I can see the excitement building up in his body; which also causes me to become excited as well. I wonder what it is. What could be so amazing that he'd rather give me this gift than kiss me or make love to me? The thought has my ego a little wounded.
This time when he stops in front of me, I'm ready and still myself in front of him. Eagerly, I look around the room; not noticing gifts or anything else out of the norm. Curiously, he turns to the breakfast bar and grabs something off of it. I watch with mild amusement as he turns to face me once; wondering what my gift may be. When he opens his hands, I abruptly stop all train of thought.
Lying neatly in his palms, there is dark red silk scarf, a nose clip, and two ear plugs.
"What's that?" I ask, my brow shifting down speculatively.
"I want my first gift to be a complete surprise," he remarks placing the nose clips and ear plugs in my hand. "I don't want you to hear, smell, or see what it is before I'm ready for you to."
"Uhh…" I begin unsurely. Jake gives me an exasperated look, effectively silencing me. I can tell he wants— no, needs me to indulge him. And whether it is because I'm so freaking turned on at this moment or the fact that I love him so much, I'm willing to give in… just this once.
Fidgeting awkwardly, I put the nose clip on; clumsily trying to put it in place as I've seen several swimmers do; although, I've never had a need for it.
There is an immediate displeasure that comes from the hard shaped plastic blocking my nostrils. There is no give to it at all and a slight ache begins to form on my nose- making me reconsider why I actually gave into Jacob in the first place. How could anyone ever wear this thing?
Wanting to hurry the process along, I look down at the neon yellow foam ear plugs in my hand. How in the heck do I use these things? Almost as if he were reading my thoughts, Jake picks one ear plug up and squishes the foam into almost nothingness. He uses his other hand to brush my hair away before placing the device gently in my ear; noticeably careful not to touch me.
I wait and listen as the foam moves, contorts, and expands to the shape of my ear; closing out the majority of all noise around me. Feeling self-conscious, I do the same with the other one, scrunching my nose at the discomfort of the tools used to hinder my senses.
To even further my deterrents, Jacob walks behind me with the scarf in his hand. I feel his heat surround my back and I thrive in it. I cannot hear or smell very well, but, because of that reason- it heightens my other senses to an acute awareness. Slowly, he steps closer to me pressing his front to my back, the rigidity of his hard body contracts against me causing me to squirm.
My breath comes out shakily as my eyes become sheathed with the silky scarf, only adding to my alertness while he fastens the scarf into a knot.
I nervously place my hands against the silk wrap. There is no noise, no smell, and no movement. I feel as though I'm on display, like, I'm vulnerable and at someone else's disposal.
Several unstable breaths leave my lips before I feel Jacob move, his heat and energy splintering through the air around me. I vaguely wonder how much longer he's going to take. Is he getting things ready or just watching me? I rely heavily on what little senses I have left and test the room around me. Even though I can't be one hundred percent sure… I'm almost certain that Jacob isn't moving. He's just standing near my side—watching me.
Finally, I feel him move; but it's closer to me instead of further away. Gently, Jacob takes out one ear plug and noise instantly floods in, taking me by surprise.
"What is it" I ask, confused by actions.
I hear him slowly walk around me, encircling me like a predator; making me feel even more exposed. What in the world is he doing?
Stopping at my side once more, he bends down to my ear and whispers, "I kind of like you blindfolded. Maybe we can use this sometime."
My mouth inadvertently falls open as his deep voice reverberates through me, calling to me on an elemental level that I have missed since giving him everything on the cruise. Like a bucket of hot, boiling water- my skin heats to melting temperatures. Is he really suggesting something sexual with me after weeks of nothing— and something kind of kinky at that?
Go with it, Ness. Just go with it!
"What about tonight?" I hear myself blazingly say; my voice breathy, wanting, and foreign even to my ears.
Holy crap! Did I just say that? I feel my cheeks flush at the thought.
"Hmmmm," he groans roughly, slowly; making me writhe. "Maybe," he replies gently breathing hotly over my ear causing my body tremble in response.
"You're teasing me."
"Yes," he replies, his lips barely grazing the soft flesh of my ear. Every single hair on my body stands to attention. Every single nerve ending stirs inside of me while my breath rushes out of my lungs causing goose-bumps to graze each of the pores on my skin.
Holy God in Heaven- I think I'm going to combust!
"Jake," I breathe.
"Mmmmmm," his satisfactory moan flutters over me, awakening and clenching certain muscles inside of me and I feel myself become ready for him. God, if I could only see him right now. See what I'm doing to him as well.
"Is this my surprise? 'Cause if it is… I'd like to take off the nose clip- it's quite uncomfortable." Suddenly, Jacob remembers himself and his warmth leaves me in a rush. "No! Don't go," I reach out for him but my hands are only met with air.
"Well, your surprise is waiting for you… and it's time sensitive," he notes cryptically.
"Time sensitive? But, I'd rather you be my surprise," I bite my lip to stop my mouth from continuing any further with the lustful thoughts in my head.
" . I." He says slowly and deliberately.
Good God- Finally! I wait for him to kiss me… to touch me, but nothing comes. Shakily, he lets out a deep breath and disappoints me as he places plug back into my ear.
I huff exaggeratedly. How exactly am I supposed to turn myself off after that? I can hear my quickened pulse internally; my breathing loud and irregular in my ears. I really hate this. Why am I still "off limits?"
I feel the floor vibrate with movement as Jacob opens the front door and leaves. For several moments I contemplate disrobing and giving him a real surprise when he makes his way back in. Maybe I should do just that… but it's his rejection for the past few weeks that has me terrified to do anything so shocking.
What could be so time sensitive anyway? I feel time sensitive at the moment; like I could literally go off the deep end. I'm so wound up right now that I'm sure it wouldn't take much for him to make me scream with completion.
Abruptly, the vibration is back and, after a beat, it gets closer to me.
"Jake?" I call out- feeling overwhelmingly vulnerable.
His warm hand settles on my arm and I calm instantly; recognizing the feel of him as he guides me over to the couch and sits me down gently.
Unexpectedly, he removes the nose clip and I flex my nostrils with relief, and take in a deep breath- smelling something unusual… something familiar… something with a pulse.
Next he takes off the blindfold and light instantly floods my eyes; temporarily blinding me.
I look up at Jacob curiously as he comes into focus. Then, a sudden disruptive movement catches my eye.
I feel my jaw grow slack with surprise as I look at a box shielded in turquoise wrapping paper. The top of the box, embellished with a large white mesh bow, moves and pops open for a second time. This time, the content achieves its goal and the top falls to the floor as the head of a puppy surfaces; its little paws grabbing and wrapping around the side of the box.
"Oh my God." I gasp, popping out the ear plugs and reaching for the puppy. "This is my surprise?" I gape at Jacob, hugging the pup to my chest.
It's a beautiful puppy. A husky, maybe? A wolfish looking dog with one bright, icy blue eye and one brown. It's soft coat brushes against my arms as it attempts to lick every shocked inch of my face.
"Yep, he is your surprise."
"He?" I remark in wonder.
"Yes, he… he's a wolf hybrid… I thought it was appropriate;" he shrugs with a shy smile with before explaining. "Wolf like me, hybrid like you. Plus- he will keep you company- so you won't get lonely when you are by yourself here. And he can grow up with the baby. Do you like him?"
He could grow with the baby? How thoughtful! I grab the puppy under his forelegs and lift him above my head, examining him. His back legs wiggle frantically in efforts to find something sturdy to stand on as I look him over. He has perfectly, keen features, a wet black nose, adorably elevated ears that would probably catch every noise within a hundred feet, and the soft pink pads of his paws glimpse out from underneath his stark white fur; that is only compromised by one small patch of black fur on his chest.
"I love him… he's perfect!" I watch as Jacob smiles broadly at me, relief and happiness prevalent on his features. "I can see why this is 'time sensitive.'" I reply sitting on couch with the puppy in hand; giggling as he resumes his licking.
"What's his name?" I ask; stroking the exquisite soft fur on the puppy's back.
"Reese… but we can change it if you want."
"Reese?" I ask, locking eyes with the curious pup that turns his head slightly to one side when he hears his name. "I like it. He looks like a Reese… it suits him."
"Good, I thought you might." Jake says before producing a leather collar from his pocket. Surprisingly, it has a metal tag hanging from it; the word "Reese" engraved on the shiny surface.
Jacob pulls the collar around the puppy's neck; but, Reese sees it as a challenge and decides he'd rather wiggle, squirm, and chew on Jacob's hand than continue to lick me. I can't help but laugh at several of failed attempts to get the collar around Reese's neck before Jacob is finally able to put it in place.
Reese yips and yaps adorably at the uncomfortable foreign object situated around his neck. He tries in vain to remove it with his own teeth and paws but grows tired quickly and forms a perfect white ball in my lap before falling asleep.
For a while, I examine him in his slumber; playing and kneading his soft paws, stroking his ears and tail as he sleepily whimpers and sucks lightly on his bright pink tongue. God, he's so freaking cute!
"I'm starting to get a little jealous," Jake begins coming to sit beside me on the couch. Throwing an arm around me, he allows me to nestle into the crook of his arm. "You haven't taken your eyes off him since I gave him to you."
"That's because he's amazingly perfect. I'm just so happy and surprised. Thank you so much. He's so lovely, Jacob." I reply looking up at him. "Like you… except— he kisses me more;" I add with an arched eyebrow.
Jacob's smile falters slightly at my light jab.
Well… since I brought the subject up- might as well go with it.
"By the way… why haven't you kissed me yet?"
"You know why," he sighs uncomfortably and takes his arm off the back of the couch. I sense the tension building inside of him, because it's building inside of me as well; but I'm not backing down. I have to know. The attraction between us is visible to anyone who'd bother to take notice. The pull I always feel when I'm with him, and even when I'm not, is there… even now, and I need answers.
"No, I don't. I'm better now… much better in fact. My head has completely healed and I've gained weight… a lot of weight last time I checked. And, I'm sleeping again… next to you... every night; but you've yet to touch me."
"Well, I can sleep at my place or in the guest room if it makes you that uncomfortable."
Ugh!
Frustrated, I try very hard to control the tone in my voice. "That's not the point and you know it, Jacob. I'm starting to feel like a reject, here. Night after night I have to lay there… knowing you want me. I can sense that you want me. I can smell it on your skin. Feel your body grow hard against me while you sleep. I know I can ease the ache inside both of us; but, you have decided to keep me in the "off limits" column even though—"
"Happy Birthday!" My mother's intrusive voice cuts through my words and I freeze embarrassedly. I turn to find her standing in the doorway with balloons and a white cake box. Reese pops his head up with immediate interest and looks around the room, wondering where the new voice is coming from.
"That better have both of our names on it," I muse; flushing at what she may have heard.
"It does, it does." She almost rolls her eyes as she walks into the house and sets the cake down on the kitchen island.
It was my one concession into having a birthday party: that my mother must share it with me. Since our birthdays are only three days apart, and she hates celebrating, even now that she doesn't age, it was the only way I'd know she agree to celebrating her birthday as well.
The smallest yip of a bark erupts from Reese's small body as he hears my mother's voice again and he dashes off my lap to run around the couch; interest piquing in his intelligent and feral eyes.
I stand with a sigh, frustrated with the broken conversation I just had with my boyfriend and the interruption my mother presents.
As I walk around the couch, Reese takes one look and sniff in my mother's direction and freezes in total fear before scurrying back to my feet with an awful, frantic, and howling bark. I pick him up and clutch his shuddering body against me.
"Shhhhh… it's okay," I soothe as I rock him.
"Is that it?" my mother asks, eyeing my puppy speculatively.
"Yep," Jake smiles and stands, taking Reese from me. "This is him." The sight of Reese's small frame in Jacob's large and dark hand is shocking.
"Wait…" A small gasp flutters through my lips as I realize something; "you knew about my surprise?"
Her eyes meet Jacob's for the briefest second in secret. "Yes," she replies with a shrug. "I thought it would be a good idea as well," Bella finishes nonchalantly.
I nod my head and wonder what else these two talk about behind my back. I turn to look at Jacob. He catches my questioning glance before ignoring it and turning on his heel, giving me his back. Curiously, Reese takes one last peek around Jacob's side at my mother, a noticeable tremble claiming his body once more.
As Jacob takes him back outside, I glide over to the island to take a look at the cake.
"No peeking!" My mother's hand covers mine on the lid of the box; pushing the top back down. "You can wait," her warm tone is gentle and I can tell she's excited for me to see the cake as well.
"But—"
"What did your mother say?" A masculine voice calls from the doorway. I turn instantly, recognizing the voice immediately.
"Dad," I reply, stating the obvious.
"Happy Birthday, Ness."
"Uh…" My brain freezes in an attempt to try to form the frayed pieces of the puzzle together.
My father hasn't come around in days. He hasn't accepted my calls or even attempted to get in contact with anyone but my mother. He's honestly the last person I thought I'd see here tonight.
"Thanks," I reply; though it sounds more like a question.
Jacob appears behind my dad with wide eyes and concern claiming each of his features.
"Edward," Jacob greets, stepping around my father to enter the house.
My father doesn't reply; instead he just simply ignores him. I frown at his rude response and look up at Jacob. He looks back at me and shrugs with an I-don't-really-care-what-he thinks-anyways- look on his face.
In efforts to clear the room of the tense energy flowing between the two dominate males in the house, I continue my tact before my father entered.
"Can I just have one peek at the cake? What if I don't like it?"
"No. Esme and I worked hard on this for you."
"For us," I correct with an arched brow and grin.
She sighs. "Yes, yes… for us;" she resigns with a dismissive hand.
Two hours later, as twilight begins to take over the sky, we all sit around the fire outside enjoying one another's company; especially me. With all the elegant birthday decorations and all the lovey chatter- I feel like I've been gone for far too long. It's nice to be around so many people that I love and trust. The sight of Gloria on the cruise ship still haunts me every day; though I'm getting better at dealing with it. I don't feel as exposed as I once did.
The house is also nosier than it's ever been before and I can't help but revel in it. I've missed my family and friends so much. I feel an overwhelming sense of love as I look around at everyone with a smile plastered across my face, happy that so many people came...
I had forgotten that Sam's family from New Mexico is in town visiting. They decided to accept Jacob's invitation to join the festivities. Sam and his older cousin, Joshua, look almost identical; it's uncanny. They introduced the other relatives to me but it happened so quickly that I've forgotten their names already… well, except for Colt's. Leah had mentioned him last week, and her disdain for him has me wondering if that is why she hasn't arrived yet.
In all honesty, I'm surprised that Sam's relatives actually came; with my family being who they are and all. I've pretty much figured out through observation alone that they are not shape-shifters. They aren't as tall or as muscular as the rest of the pack. They also don't seem to be in on the secret or act uneasy around my family. Colt is the only one who appears to have any hesitations.
I watch him closely for a moment. He is as tall as Sam, but slimmer and more defined. His bronze skin is like that of his family; but his uniquely bright green eyes has him standing out from the rest. He's rather good-looking, actually. He sits alone quietly, only smiling or laughing gently as someone talks or jokes with him. I would even say that he's fairly reserved; which is the polar opposite from what I was expecting. No, I was expecting a hell raiser from the way Leah described him.
His eyes meet mine for the briefest second and I flush as he must have realized that I've been watching him. He smiles sincerely at me, and after I find myself doing the same, I divert my eyes elsewhere.
Wow. After seeing his amazing smile- I'd say Colt is more than good-looking… I wonder why Leah dislikes him so much.
"Don't even think about it, Colt" Paul whispers, elbowing Colt's arm. "She's off-limits."
What?!
My head snaps up almost audibly as my eyes flicker to Paul's in shock; did he just say that I'm "off-limits?" The phrase I've been using for why Jacob has barely touched me registers harshly in my head, accelerating my heartbeat as I listen more closely to their conversation.
"What do you mean?" Colt asks, his tone just as soft and unassuming.
"She's Jacob's girlfriend," Paul informs him without any other explanation. Colt nods with understanding before meeting my glance once more. Boldly, he winks at me and gives me a charming crooked grin that I'm quite certain would have most women dropping their panties at first sight.
If it is even possible, I feel myself flush even more. Oh, no… I think I've given him the wrong idea.
"Okay!" Esme's voice trills through the air, giving me a reprieve from the awkward situation. "Time for the cake!"
My mom drags me up from my seat and puts an arm around me while she stands by my side. Within the next minute everyone begins singing an all too familiar song. Their out of tune voices fill the air around me, and I can't help but smile as I look over at my mom. Bumping my hip against hers in a silent reminder that it's her birthday too, I begin singing to her as well. I don't want all the attention to be on me… it's so embarrassing.
A shy look covers her features and I let out giggle as the song comes to a close. The different renditions that come afterwards are instantly muted by the sight of blaring candles on the cake. I stare at it in complete awe. It's three tiered, chic, elegant, and amazing. I recognize the color of the bottom tier immediately. It's the same color as the box that Reese came in; the lovely turquoise that reminds me of the pristine waters in Bora Bora. The next tier is completely white with decadent black swirls that claim almost every inch of it. The top tier is made up of the same colors as its base and dons the silver, standing letters "B & N" at the top. The white, blazing candles that surround the letters give the cake a perfect finish.
"It's beautiful," I let out, glancing at my mother and grandmother.
They both smile in appreciation at me before someone yells "Make a wish."
"A wish" another voice adds through the muttering of different voices.
Meeting my mother's glance to ensure that she does the same, I close my eyes tightly and think.
Quickly, I realize that there is only thing in the entire world that I want or need. And, within that moment- I wish for it with everything inside of me.
When I reopen my eyes, I find Jacob in the crowd of people standing around us. His broad smile and loving eyes has me knowing I have to find a way to make my wish come true… and very soon.
Taking a deep breath in, I wait for my mom and simultaneously we both try to blow out every single candle that is alight in one single breath.
"Time for the presents!" Esme offers with an excited grin that makes me really miss Alice. I know if she were here— she'd be fully in her element.
Grateful that the party is set up outside on the deck, I sit back down as Bella and I go through the hoard of gifts that are meant for us.
By the time everything is opened, I feel really blessed. I've obtained the new Apple iPhone and a video camera. I'm quite sure Esme and Carlisle have a very good reason for the gifts. Emmet and Rose have given me a gorgeous teardrop sapphire necklace that shimmers stunningly with the firelight. Alice and Jasper's gift was a little confusing… it's an investment portfolio with a bunch of numbers and graphs that I cannot even begin to comprehend. I'm definitely going to have to call them about that.
Mom and dad got me the most shocking gift of the night. When I first opened the card and saw the script:
You'll be needing this very soon.
Happy Birthday, Renesmee!
We will always love you and be proud of you.
Mom and Dad
When I looked up at my parents with small tears gleaming in my eyes, they handed me the keys to a brand new Audi SUV. After the initial shock wore off, my father proceeded to tell me all the safety features the vehicle had: the rear airbags and the child safety seats, to name a few.
I knew then, why I would be needing the new vehicle. I guess that I hadn't thought of trying to shove a car seat in the back of my two door Camaro. And even though the swanky SUV was an amazing gift… the card that said that they will always be proud of me meant more to me than anything else.
The other odd and end gifts I received from everyone else also made an impact on me. Some of the pack members made their gifts with their own bare hands. It's heartwarming to think that they took time out of their insanely busy schedules to care about me; even in this small way. It's heartwarming.
"Thank you everyone for everything. Tonight has been amazing; one of the best birthday's I've—"
"Wait," Jacob's voice instantly stops me. "You haven't opened my gifts, yet."
"But the puppy—"
"I told you that was only one of your presents."
"Jake you didn't have to—" I begin, but his look stops me.
Walking closer to me, he hands me a flat and slender box that has a bit of weight to it. I look around at my loving family and friends each watching me closely; equally as intrigued as I am with the box. Watching the anxiety rise in Jacob's eyes as well as listening to the sound of his heartbeat dramatically increase, I slowly tug on the strings of the bow and lift the lid eager to see what has him so anxious.
"Oh, Jacob!" I gasp, grabbing the picture frame that is neatly wrapped in soft tissue. Lifting it up, I stare back at myself and the man I love. It's the picture we took on the cruise ship together on the day we went whale watching.
In it, Jacob stands confidently with me at his side; his gorgeous smile gleaming at the camera… but me… I'm looking directly at him; feeling as completely in love then as I do now.
"Jacob, it's beaut—" I look up from the photograph to meet his eyes but noticed that he's no longer standing… but kneeling. "Jake?"
"Renesmee Cullen," he begins, his thrumming heartbeat increasing by the moment. OH. MY. GOD! "There isn't a minute in the day that goes by when I don't think of you and there isn't a second in that minute when I don't thank God for sending me- you. When I look into this picture," he stops for briefest second to look down at the frame he's just given me. "I see all the love that you have for me in one single glance. Will you do me the honor of being able to look at you the same way every single day for the rest of our lives? Will you marry me, Renesmee?" He finishes by producing a black velvet box from his pocket before popping open the top.
The platinum band shines brightly, even in the night; but the diamond, the bold and gleaming diamond claims all of my attention. Holy cow! It's gorgeous- but nowhere near the beauty of the man kneeling in front of me.
"Yes!" The words leave me without hesitation; without thought or concern. With tears uncontrollably streaming down my face, I'm enveloped in the arms of the man I love… and the man that will love me- forever.
I'm vaguely aware of the cheers that erupt around us; but I only see- him. I've only ever seen him—in every thought of every moment of every day of my entire life.
"Kiss her!" Jarrod yells, his voice standing out from the others.
I flush slightly as the hope in me sputters to life. Please kiss me, Jacob… this moment needs to be sealed with a kiss. Even as I think the words, I no longer wonder…. I know… I know he's finally going to kiss me.
Lowering his head, he keeps eyes locked with mine and every ounce of love that he has for me is visible in the chocolaty depths. "I love you," he whispers before the pressure of his lips finally cover mine with a gentleness that I've never felt before.
A surge of energy explodes and flares between us; forcing us closer together. The weeks of complete rejection feels utterly worth it in this moment of extreme happiness. Sensuality blooms inside of me- forcing me to open my mouth wider; wanting to deepen this kiss. My hormones register the flourishing sensations bursting through me and every inch of my body that can feel- becomes intensified a thousand times over. I want him… badly… and I want him NOW!
The only hindrance that causes Jacob to end the kiss is the large group of people cat-calling around us.
"You'll get her pregnant that way!" Paul jokes loudly, causing me to freeze with embarrassment. Oh Paul… if you only knew!
Tucking me into his chest, I hide my reddened face against the warmth of my future husband; all the while giggling like a school girl. Happiness is a word that would never cover the feelings coursing through me in this moment.
After several breaths, I'm passed around with hugs and kisses and congratulations. It isn't until I'm making my way back inside to get a drink of water that I see Leah is leaning by the breakfast bar- alone and looking as though she's seen a ghost.
"Leah? Are you okay?"
"I… uh… I…" she murmurs brokenly, her brow smooth and without strain; a look I'm not accustomed to seeing on her.
"What's wrong?"
She stands quietly looking at the opened door behind me; looking through me- unable to speak.
"Leah" I prompt worriedly.
"I… uh… I just wanted to drop off your gift… I ummm… I have to go… I'm sorry." She says cryptically before bolting out of the front door.
As I stand there consumed by tonight's events mixed with the confusion by Leah's abrupt departure, I'm unusually startled by a voice behind me.
"Was that Leah?" An almost familiar voice asks.
I turn to find Colt standing behind me, I'm shocked to realize that I have no idea how long he's been there… the thought has me worried- my senses aren't what they once were.
"Umm," I hum, turning to look at him; confusion still claiming my features. The loud voices from the back deck distract me for a moment before I focus on him. "Yes…" I say befuddled. "That was Leah. She… I—I guess she had to go."
He nods and quirks that same panty dropping smile at me. "I believe a congratulations is in order."
"Thank you," I flush, forgetting everything else as my eyes flicker down the weighty and jeweled band on my finger.
"I was coming to see what was taking so long," Jacob walks in behind Colt, eyeing him speculatively.
"Leah was just here," I feel the need to explain, noticing the tension between my fiancé and another man.
Jacob nods and puts a possessive arm around me, and though I know that he's staking his claim, even though it's not really needed at the point considering the ring on my finger, I indulge him by leaning against his strong body as they begin a light and uncomfortable conversation.
As the last of the guests leave, I can't help but let out a relieved breath as I pick up my new puppy, scratching the small gap between his ears. Reese leans in to my hand and gives me a satisfied yawn in response.
"This day has been utterly perfect." I tell Jacob as I put Reese back down on the ground. Reese whimpers and paws at my feet but is distracted when Jake rolls a bright yellow tennis ball on the floor. If I would have taken notice earlier- I would have seen the dog bed, food bowl, and basket full of dog toys.
Watching Reese run uneasily and crookedly across the floor, I hoist myself onto the kitchen island. Unable to take my eyes off the clumsy puppy, who at this very moment, completes an unintentional summersault in attempts to rescue the ball from the area rug.
"It's been more than perfect." Jacob takes three long strides in my direction before stepping into the space between my legs. My lips open, gasping at any air that can enter my lungs within breathing range. His breath splays across my face as I gaze up at him.
"It has?" I breathe, my hormones taking over once more.
"Yes… You've made me the happiest man in the world with just one word."
A smile takes over my face and I glance down at the ring on my finger. The feeling of Jacob's index finger lifting my head to meet his gaze is the last thing I feel before his mouth takes over mine in a surprisingly forceful kiss that is elementally needed. He tongue glides across my swollen lips before dipping into my mouth, taking over, taking everything while holding nothing back.
My insides respond by catching fire and shooting bursts of electricity through my veins. Panting with need, Jacob's lips trail down to my chin and then to my neck, sweeping my annoyingly wavy hair over my shoulder. Taking hold of my head, he stills himself for a moment; his breathing as heavy and winded as mine.
I see several thoughts cross over his features and before I allow him to talk himself out whatever may happen between us, I pull his lips down back to mine with all the strength I can muster.
"Don't stop," I mutter between kisses. "Don't ever stop kissing me… ever again."
The responding moan that leaves his body has a direct line to the most sensitive part of mine, causing everything below my waist to clench with delicious need. With my body on fire and my pregnant hormones clouding every sensible thought in my head, I tear at the thin fabric of cotton that was his shirt; smiling at the memory it brings from our time on the cruise ship.
He chuckles against my lips and leans back to look at me. "Eager are we?"
"You have no idea," I say with all seriousness as I yank my shirt over my head, revealing my swollen breast pressing tightly against my bra.
Jacob takes a deliberate step back and gapes at me with heavy lidded eyes, stunned. I feel the slightest pang of worry as he looks over me.
My body has already begun to change, but not drastically. A small, almost unnoticeable bump protrudes gently in my lower abdomen. My breast on the other hand, are noticeably growing.
"You're so fucking beautiful," he groans, pressing his mouth to mine once more. This time, his kisses flutters down my face and neck, licking and sucking as he goes, making me writhe against him.
"Jake," I breathe, my voice husky and wanting.
"Wrap your legs around me, baby," he orders.
I quickly oblige him; reveling in the feeling of his erection pressing against me; even through the barrier of our jeans.
Suddenly, he picks me up without any effort. Turning with purpose, my world swirls as he begins walking in the direction of my room; his mouth still on me, stealing every breath from my lungs. I gasp in his mouth, needing him and feeling his need all at the same time.
"Take me," I pant against his wet lips.
"Yes," he replies flicking at the small strap on my back, causing my bra to fall down my arms before falling to the floor.
Laying me down on the bed gently, I feel Jacob's frantic fingers fumbling with the buttons on my jeans. I let out a rueful giggle as he struggles with strained fabric; slightly embarrassed.
He arches a brow at me. "You had to wear jeans with five buttons on them?" He asks, humor and want prevalent in his tone.
"They're the only one that fit me anymore," I explain as I begin helping him. I don't think I've ever wanted to get my pants off so quickly before in my life. Our fingers tangle with desperate need as we try and fail to unclasp the bronzed buttons.
His deep responding chuckle singes the air around me, it's an intoxicating and impassioned noise. "Screw it," he mutters half-crazed, tearing at the denim and, within a second, effectively stripping me of the rough cloth that once covered my lower half. "These should be easier to get off," he says more to himself than to me as I arch my back to allow him to ease the last remaining barrier off my body.
As the lace falls unceremoniously to the floor, I let out a sharp groan as I feel the warmth of his mouth shockingly cover me.
"Oh God," I moan in surprise, feeling for the first time in weeks an ease take over my limbs as I know that soon I will come apart in his firm grasp. "Yes," I breathe, pushing my pelvis up to meet him.
"I've missed this… so much. You taste…. so good." He says between kisses, but his words sound off in the distance as his tongue parts me once more. I writhe beneath his sultry mouth, my body shuddering as he finds the bud of my desire.
"Jake," I gasp, unable to fight the climax wanting to burst through my subconscious. I've been on edge for weeks and now, as everything is coming to a head, I can barely hold back all my desires.
He lifts his head and breathes a cooling burst of air on my swollen clit, the effects of which has me screaming out his name again.
"Please," I beg, raising my hips to his mouth once more; needing a release that I've wanted for so long.
His brown eyes almost turn into a flat black at my request and I look down in time to see him his tongue seek and find me, devouring me gently but urgently. Leaning back, I throw my head into my bed as he suckles on the most sensitive spot on my entire, inflamed body. Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, his long fingers circle around my opening before entering me, filling and stretching me.
A quickening takes hold of me and I relax against it, giving into the raging need inside of me. Yes! This is it… finally, my body can let go.
Just as I feel my desire brimming once more, Jacob stands and drops his jeans and boxers to the floor. Before I can protest against his maddening teasing, I watch as his erection springs free of its constraints. Seeing his need makes me forget my own. I open my legs further for him, eager to ease his ache.
Kneeling on the bed, he strides closer to me; looking down at me as he takes his shaft into his hand and begins to stroke himself. Oh my God, he's so incredibly sexy! I fight against the urge to touch myself in return, even as I throb and ache for him. Instead, I somehow patiently wait and watch his hooded eyes rake over my body as positions himself between my legs.
The heat of his lips on my belly while he traces his way to my breast distract me from the feeling of his warm body pressing against my slick and awaiting flesh. I feel my nipple harden and elongate as he pulls and sucks me into his mouth. I groan into the intense pleasure that splinter through my body. I want to scream but all air evades me. I'm not sure how much more I can take before I explode!
Moving from one breast to the other, I feel his hand trail its way between our bodies. In one second, I'm panting and empty, the next, he's plunging into me, calling his name from my lips.
Oh, God! She's so tight. So wet. I hope I don't hurt her, she's so tight. But I can't stop Jacob's thoughts are finally a part of me once more.
"Are you okay," he asks through strained and clenched teeth.
I feel my body expand and accept him greedily. The small ache that came from his initial entrance is now gone and I flex my hips, encouraging him to continue. "More," I gasp, "Don't s—stop."
A fulfilling growl vibrates in his chest as he pulls back, accepting the challenge. Instantly, he slams into me again and again.
It's so hot. You feel so good, baby. His words are so intense that they being to run together as I try to focus on the pleasure building inside of me. I've missed this. Your body is so soft. I want you to take all of me.
"Yes" I cry out, encircling his waist with my legs, pulling him deeper inside of me.
It's taken all of my self-control to not kiss you every day and every night. I lose all control when you kiss me. I don't ever want to lose control around you… especially now… Please forgive me, baby. He groans, thrusting harshly inside of me, his brow misting with sweat.
"Always," I reply, meeting his motions thrust for thrust; our hearts frantically beating in the air around us.
As the familiar feeling takes hold of my body once more, I feel Jacob respond to it, diving into it, forcing it to the surface of my skin. Knowingly, he swivels his hips, hitting a sweetly sensitive spot inside of me. I gasp and beg for me, scoring his back with my nails as he hits the spot again and again.
"Jacob," I breathe, feeling on the point of no return.
"Yes, that's it baby. Come for me."
With his command in my ears and his hardened flesh thrusting into me, I come gloriously; screaming and spiraling into a world I haven't visited in quite some time.