Beta'd by Astrid. Thank you my wonderful friend.

"Silence is the most powerful scream."

-Anonymous

Bella was moving a little slower now that she was eight months pregnant. She was getting ready to start dinner but had a few things to do in the baby's room first. Before she put clothes away, she held a cotton onesie against her face. The freshly washed scent was perfect. Soon, she would be holding the baby instead of getting ready for him. Setting up the babies room made everything seem so real.

Downstairs, she heard a knock on the door.

She made her way carefully down the stairs not wanting to fall and injure herself. One trip to the hospital after a fall had been enough. She was still smiling when she opened the door to a horrific sight. Standing on Charlie's front porch was something she couldn't even wrap her mind around.

Aro.

She'd opened the door without even thinking. Of course, Aro could easily reach her and there would've been nothing she could do to prevent it.

Weakness flooded her system and her knees buckled. Aro reached out to catch her before she hit the floor.

Her name rolled off his tongue..."Isabella." He loved the shock he gave her. Hearing her heart pounding gave him a rush and made him feel powerful.

Bella felt like she was going to pass out. His voice was one she'd hoped to never hear again. For a minute her vision dimmed, but something made her fight the abyss. Charlie. He was due to be home within the hour. Jacob was going to be late because he had to patrol, so Charlie was her immediate concern. Frantic thoughts ran through her head. Knowing it might be too late for herself, she prayed she could spare Charlie and Jacob. With any luck, Aro would be long gone by the time they got home.

A sob slipped out when she tried to say his name. "Ar… Aro. What are you doing here?"

Aro put a hand on her shoulder as he smiled and pretended to reassure her. His attempt to look sincere only made him more diabolical. He raised his eyebrows. "Why, checking on you my dear Isabella. I told you I would be coming." He'd realized she was pregnant before she opened the door. The rapid heartbeat of the baby made itself known. He smirked as he looked at her burgeoning belly. His voice lowered as he remarked. "My, my, Isabella. You have been busy haven't you?"

Bella couldn't keep the tears away. All she could see was Jacob and the baby. Her life was perfect. The thought of Jacob losing them broke her heart. Giving up wasn't in her nature though. She was a strong woman. She tried to collect herself - Stop it, you idiot. Have faith!

Aro kept up his little charade. He chided, "Oh, Bella. No need for tears." He lightly took her elbow and led her to the kitchen. Glancing around, he took a glass from the dish rack and ran some water for her. "Here, drink this my dear." While he waited, he took in his surroundings. It was a very small cottage compared to what he was used to. He tried to get a fix on the unusual scent in the home.

Bella reached out with shaky hands to accept the water. "Thanks." Feeling the icy cold touch against her skin gave her the creeps. She wasn't sure how she'd ever tolerated Edward's touch. She knew if she didn't keep her wits about her, Aro might get frustrated and it would lessen her chances. Their tiny baby was depending on her to survive.

She took deep breaths trying to slow down her pounding heart. Her mind raced as she sipped the water. Would Alice see Aro come? Would one of them come to save her? Where was her phone? It was in her pocket, but she knew there wouldn't be an opportunity to call for help.

Aro's voice interrupted her efforts. "Let us go for a walk, shall we?"

Bella's heart leapt in her chest as she was hit with a rush of adrenalin. Knowing she couldn't refuse him, she nodded her head in concession.

Aro wasn't completely sure what he was going to do with Bella. He'd initiated an investigation to see if Bella had been turned. When he found out she wasn't with Edward any longer, he decided to see for himself what was happening. The world of the Volturi was a fishbowl at times. Aro was bored and travelling to Washington State intrigued him, but he was no fool. He'd brought Alec along.

Aro's inclination was to kill Bella and be done with it. Like a cat with his prey, he wanted to play with her before striking the final blow. He thought it best to take her outdoors where it would be easier to make it look like an accident. He'd instructed Alec to stay hidden until he gave the signal, then he was to use his mist so Bella wouldn't see it coming. In his way, Aro was trying to be merciful. Bella was immune to their powers, but he thought the mist might work on her. He wasn't convinced she could block it and wanted to test his theory.

Jacob was nervous but he couldn't explain why, he just was. Something had his fur on end. Sam was running patrols with him and felt the concern flowing from his Alpha.

What's wrong Jake? Do you think it's a leech? He hadn't scented anything, but couldn't think of any other reason for Jacob to be so unsettled. They'd even been discussing reducing patrols because there hadn't been any vampires around for months.

Jacob whined. I'm not sure. A storm might be coming.

Sam nodded in agreement. You might be right. There's a crackle in the air.

Jacob's legs felt weak as a wave of emotion flooded him. He knew instinctively whatever was wrong, was life threatening.

He surged his powerful body into a full run as it hit him. Bella… something's wrong with Bella. Danger! He howled in distress.

Sam tried to calm him down as they raced to Bella's house.

When he and Sam got close they immediately went into high alert. Leech!

Jacob didn't phase back. He knew Bella was not in the house. The strong scent followed a trail into the woods. He tracked her like the devil was on his ass with Sam close behind him.

He roared. That fucking parasite better not touch her! The stench was worse than he'd ever smelled. It made the Cullen's smell like perfume.

Sam tried to be the voice of reason. Keep your cool Jake. We'll get 'em, but we don't know how many leeches are here.

When he could tell they were getting close, Jacob slowed down. He knew he needed to be smart or Bella might be killed. They couldn't just rush up and attack. It would be too risky. When they could see Bella they ducked behind some massive undergrowth so they could watch without being detected.

Rage poured through Jacob when he saw Bella with the vampire. His wolf was horrified to have the leech around her and pup. It was wrong. He growled and screamed inside. Kill it, kill it, destroy it!

He recognized from what Bella told him before it must be a member of the Volturi. The pale corpse was dressed in thick velvet robes. He looked ridiculous. Being pregnant, Bella was having some difficulty with the terrain. It only took one glance to see how distraught she was.

Sam asked his Alpha. Have you got any ideas for a plan?

Jacob seethed in anger. His wolf wanted to tear across the distance and rip the leech to shreds. Carlisle had warned him about their numbers before so he knew attacking was not an option. They would only send more. He and his wolf were at odds. He was crazy with worry for Bella and wouldn't let Jacob phase back. He howled inside, kill! Must kill!

Embry phased in and immediately knew something was very wrong. He yelled that he was on his way.

Jacob commanded. Do as I say! Get the rest of the pack and stay close, but not close enough to be seen or heard. He tried to remain focused while he tried to bring his wolf under control. He tried to ignore the the rest of the pack who were suddenly phasing in one after the other, barking orders to each other as they ran toward Forks. Paul told them to shut the fuck up and concentrate, reminding them Jacob was depending on them.

Jacob turned to look at Sam. He was certain it needed to be this way. I've got a plan. This has to be man to man. He looked at his pack brother with gratitude and love in his heart. While I'm phased out handling this, you're in charge Sam. If this doesn't go well, promise me you'll get Bella and high tail it back to the Rez. Promise...

Multiple howls echoed in their heads as the pack responded to worries of their Alpha being in grave danger. Jacob reiterated his order to remain out of sight, not to get close, and to stay silent in case they needed to attack.

He could see and feel the pain the words caused. Sam was conflicted as well. but Jacob's lineage could depend on it. The pup had to survive. He stiffened his back and resolved to do whatever it took to keep Bella safe and ensure that his line was protected. He nodded.

Jacob knew Sam would protect his family. He forced his wolf down. It took all of his strength and determination to win the inner battle. When he phased, he put his shorts on and stood up with determination. He glanced one last time at his pack brother and turned to face his destiny.

Jacob approached slowly, knowing any sudden movement could provoke the parasite.

Aro smelled Jacob before he heard him. The scent was unlike anything he'd ever encountered. He inhaled deeply, trying to discern what it was. Bella noticed a change in Aro's demeanor just as she saw Jacob coming toward them. Fresh tears fell unchecked down her cheeks. Her worst nightmare was coming true. Her husband, love of her life and father of her child, was in mortal danger. With one swipe of his hand Aro could take him away from her. An involuntary sob slipped out.

She breathed out his name, "Jacob." He heard her heart rate soar. His eyes met hers briefly before he focused on the threat.

Bella was terrified and didn't see how they would survive this. She knew Aro was vicious and more than a little crazy. She never wanted Jacob subjected to his insanity.

Aro's eyes widened as he watched the man coming his way. Intrigued by the unusual scent pouring off him, he recognized it as the same scent that permeated the house. He'd heard of Native American's throughout history, even met a few, but considered them unimportant. He would realize soon how wrong he'd been to underestimate them. The seething fury he saw in Jacob's dark eyes was an uncommon sight for Aro. No one was ever brave enough to show such hostility in front of him and live. He was astonished when the massive man got in his personal space and asked in a strong voice. "Where the hell do you think you're taking my wife?"

Jacob stood to his full height and looked down at Aro. He wasn't trying to be intimidating. He just was. The point he was making was crystal clear and well made. She is mine and you don't belong here.

Aro turned his attention back to Bella. "Well, well, my dear. You certainly have a talent for attracting the unusual." He grinned as he regarded Jacob with interest.

He asked a question even though there was clearly no room for refusal. "May I, my dear Isabella?" He reached his hand toward Jacob.

Bella wanted more than anything to say no. She looked up at her beautiful husband and knew there was no way out. She felt short of breath, like she couldn't get enough air into her lungs.

Jacob took control and hid his nervousness. Giving her the most beautiful smile she'd ever seen, he said, "It's okay, Bells." He turned his back on the leech and took the time to take her face in his hand. As he touched her, he tried to give her strength. Bella nodded in silent understanding, he was asking her to trust him.

Aro watched them with amusement. When Jacob held out his large hand, Aro took it in his cold grasp. He was quite surprised at the temperature of Jacob's skin. He'd never felt anyone so hot, even while ravaged with fever.

Jacob had to grind his teeth to allow the vampires touch. His whole being refused it. Bella told him some time back Aro could see every thought and memory. His wolf was so close to the surface a growl slipped from his throat. He remembered the words the Great Taha Aki had spoken to him in his vision quest.

The warrior must know when to control his wolf.

Jacob intuitively knew if he allowed himself to phase it was all over. He had to win, and this was one fight he needed to win as a man. Jacob used every bit of resolve to keep his wolf down.

Aro closed his eyes. He took his time as he absorbed the magnificence of Jacob Black.

Nothing had ever affected him like this experience. Jacob was the most complicated being he'd ever encountered, human or vampire. He was shocked to the core when he learned Jacob's thoughts and memories, particularly the transformation to wolf. Aro was bewildered and stunned as he held the much larger hand in his, recognizing something incredible and special. His body jerked in surprise when he saw multiple wolves ripping apart vampires. Body parts were flying everywhere. They were vicious and powerful. It didn't look like the vampires had a chance. It made him feel weak and was something he hadn't felt in hundreds of years.

He saw something else that stunned him just as much. It was love. Love beyond measure.

Aro thought his love for Sulpicia rivaled anyone's. He always thought a mated vampire's love was stronger than any. He would never admit it to anyone, but he knew he was wrong. This supernatural man loved his mate. The bond he witnessed between them was unrivaled.

Aro was arrogant. Vampires were superior to humans, animals, and anything else that came along. Smarter, faster, more cunning. He knew the Volturi were superior and wanted it to say that way. He'd always been sure nothing would ever unseat their position. The vampire community depended on them in more ways than they even knew, but now he felt threatened.

He saw Jacob with new eyes and intense interest. Of course, he'd known of the existence of Native American tribes in North America but he'd never considered them to be of any significance. Dismissing them as unimportant had been a mistake. They were obviously a huge threat. He released Jacob's hand but didn't speak. It was a very rare occurrence for him to be shocked.

Paul and the rest of the wolves made a large circle around the area where Jacob and Bella were standing with the vampire. They'd been ordered to stay nearby in case more Volturi showed up. He spotted another vampire watching from a distance. He was positioned in such a way he could see Aro but wouldn't be easily detected by Jacob. He was totally focused on making sure his leader was safe. Just seeing him standing there so arrogantly in his fancy garb made Paul seethe. He'd let his wolf take over completely. He was silent and deadly. He crouched low as he approached.

Sam warned him, Watch and wait, Paul. You remember what Jake said about them having special skills.

Embry chimed in, Yeah, Jake said their leader was like a collector of leeches with special powers and shit.

Paul crouched low and waited. His fur was standing on end. Every instinct in his body told him he needed to be careful. He knew this tiny vampire must have special abilities or he wouldn't be here. The pack reported back no others were found in the area. It just appeared to be the two vampires.

His wolf sensed imminent danger and had never been more determined. Even if the man could have attempted to influence him, it was too late. It was doubtful even an Alpha order could've stopped him. Paul made the decision to take him out at the first warning sign. He was sure he could do it without alarming the other vampire because they were far enough away. He moved into position waiting for his opportunity.

Sam was able to see Paul and their eyes met. His former Alpha spoke in a low menacing voice for all the pack to hear, Take him out if he does anything, Paul. That was all the encouragement he needed. They were of one accord.

Aro made a small movement with his arm and Alec mistakenly thought it was a signal. Aro glanced in his direction and realized what Alec was doing. Before he could stop him Alec started to rise. Paul and Sam watched as his body became blurry with a mist rising from his shoulders. Recognizing the threat, Paul landed right on top of the small vampire taking his whole head into his mouth, crushing and tearing it free in one smooth movement. A thrill rushed through his body. No kill had ever satisfied him more than this one. He and his wolf knew it was the kill of a lifetime.

Sam and the rest of the pack were stunned at how silent the attack had been, but no one was more shocked than Aro. He realized quickly the wolves were protecting themselves and there was nothing he could do. The horror of seeing Alec killed turned to self-preservation. He held his hand out to Jacob to let him know, no threat was intended. Jacob growled a warning but made no move toward him.

Before anyone could react Sam shouted, Get it the fuck out of here and hide the evidence. He didn't want to take any chances since there might be over vampires on the way. He called out for Jared. Jared, go help Paul! I don't want anything left. He reiterated. Not even ashes.

Paul pulled the body further away so he could dismember it without being detected before he and Jared burned the pieces making sure they were far enough away so no smoke could be seen. After he was reduced to ashes, they scattered him in the wind. He would never be found.

Sam decided to use an intimidation technique they'd been practicing for fun. It was known that a pack of wolves could deliberately howl in such a way to sound like many more. It was something done in nature to fool neighboring packs into believing there were more animals present than there really were.

He knew the pack was scattered throughout the woods nearby. They were all phased and waiting. Even Paul and Jared were still close enough to be heard. Sam instructed them, use your special howls. We want him to think we have huge numbers.

At that moment he leaned his head back to lead them. Jacob had never been more proud of his pack as they all joined in. They were amazing. The nine of them sounded like dozens.

It had the desired effect. Aro knew he had no choice but to change his plan. It was a checkmate. He was upset at losing a valuable member of his guard, but through the centuries he'd seen many changes and considered it collateral damage. Excited about what the offspring of Bella and this supernatural creature would create, he looked to the future. He was a patient man and even if it took many years to come to fruition, he would be waiting. Aro was a narcissistic maniac, but he was a survivor. Knowing the odds could be stacked against the Volturi it was better to come to a compromise.

He'd seen Jacob's memories about a treaty between the Cullens and the tribe. He planned to find Carlisle Cullen and shame him at the first opportunity. He was betrayed and insulted that Carlisle thought he had the power to make a treaty without his knowledge. Knowing the Cullen Clan were aware of the threat to their kind and hadn't revealed it troubled Aro greatly and he wanted answers.

He was satisfied he had a checkmate of his own. For the first time Aro felt he had the leverage to get Edward and Alice to join the Volturi. First, he had some damage control to take care of with Jane. He would deal with her himself to cushion the blow from the loss of her brother. The wolf had taken Alec down so easily he wasn't completely sure Jane's power would work on them. Was it possible Bella had picked a mate who was immune to their powers as well? The wolves were clearly dangerous and he wasn't about to underestimate them. One look at the intensely powerful man beside him reinforced his decision.

He looked up at Jacob and smiled. "Maravilloso."

Jacob glared at him. He was ready to attack if he felt the least threat to his wife.

Aro looked at Bella and laughed. "This is no ordinary man you have here, Isabella."

Bella had silent tears falling down her face. She hated to cry in front of the monster, but worry and hormones wouldn't let her stop. "He's far from ordinary. He's the best man I've ever known." She regarded Aro with pity. "Something you could never be."

Aro dismissed her. Her only value was as a vessel for the offspring of this magnificent creature. He had an acute interest in what would become of their child. With Bella's ability to block supernatural powers blended with the amazing wolf shifter boggled Aro's mind. It was obvious she would never be a vampire now that she'd mated. Mere humans were of no importance to him. They represented his next meal and nothing more. Bella's mate and future offspring were a different story. Watching the transformations through Jacob's memory had been spectacular.

Giddy with thoughts of the future, Aro turned back to Jacob. He couldn't help but be in awe. Showing respect to anyone else was completely foreign to him and it was almost against his will, but he admired the power of the wolves. Even if they were mortal threats to his kind, it was becoming clear to Aro that he didn't know everything. Feeling like he could be in danger in the forest with these enemies he decided it was time to leave. He needed time to reflect. "It appears we both have things to hide." He couldn't wait to get away from the area. He tried to appear casual as he moved several feet away from the massive man who was shaking with anger.

"I must be leaving as I have urgent matters to attend to Isabella." He gazed into Jacob's eyes. "I leave you in peace and wish you well." Before he left he couldn't resist the urge to inquire, "If I may ask, what are your numbers?"

Jacob saw his opening. There was no way in hell he was going to answer the question honestly. He and the rest of the pack had speculated on the possibility of other packs. It didn't make sense to any of them that the pack from La Push was the only one. He spoke convincingly in a strong voice. "We are many."

Aro nodded as he considered it. "What do you call yourselves?"

Jacob spoke with the power of a Chief. "We call ourselves what we are, Quileute warriors."

Jacob held his gaze. He wasn't afraid to die. His concern was for his wife and child as well as his pack. Looking every bit the powerful warrior that he was, he held the gaze of the odd looking vampire, refusing to show any weakness.

In a rare show of respect Aro nodded. Before Jacob could respond Aro took off and disappeared into the distance.

After he left Jacob couldn't hold his wolf back any longer. His wolf was very angry and clawing to the surface to protect his mate. He moved several feet away from Bella and phased, ripping his clothes to shreds. His wolf was so strong the strain had been almost more than he'd been capable of. He howled in acute distress and collapsed on the ground.

When the pack felt the surge of feelings he'd been holding back they were brought to their knees only capable of whimpers for a few minutes. When they recovered they surrounded their Alpha and his mate. The need to be close to them was as strong as their desire to protect.

Thoughtless of any risk to herself, Bella exclaimed, "Jake! I thought he was going to kill us!" She moved to his side touching him tenderly. He whined and breathed in her scent in great gulps of air. His pack was stressed seeing their Alpha so disturbed.

None of them were able to phase back with the exception of Sam. Their wolves simply wouldn't allow it. Sam quickly assessed the situation. It was close to dark and the weather was deteriorating rapidly. A cold rain was starting to fall. It didn't look like Jacob's wolf would be letting him phase back anytime soon. The pack was almost as affected as he was. None of them were phasing back. Sam knew Bella needed to get inside. The sound of sirens approaching in the distance made him take charge.

"Bella, we need to get you inside." He walked over to where she and Jacob were. "Jake, I will get Bella inside while you guys phase back." Jacob nodded in agreement.

The shock of what had happened made Bella's legs feel weak. When she told Sam she didn't feel like she could walk, he gently lifted her into his arms. She was still crying and her heart rate was way too high.

Sam tried to calm her down. "We're safe now Bella. Your heart is beating too fast and that can't be good for the baby. His little heart's beating out of his chest."

Bella concentrated on taking some deep breaths. The last thing she wanted to do was stress the baby. Shivering in the cold she snuggled against Sam's warmth. As soon as he started walking out of the woods Jacob stood up to follow. His wolf wouldn't allow him to be away from his mate and pup.

Sam was very concerned. He was sure he'd heard Charlie pull up in the cruiser. "Jake, you will need to stay hidden at the edge of the woods. We can't let Charlie see this."

Several of the pack responded to him. Yeah Jake, we better stay hidden.

Sam thought Jacob was going to stay at the edge of the woods, but when he and Bella started across the yard Jacob followed. He'd tried to make his wolf stay back, but he refused to be away from his mate. He was strong and determined now that he was in control of the man.

The pack stopped short of the yard, fighting the urge to stay with their Alpha. Everyone had reached their limit.

Sam felt he had no choice but to accept things as they were. He was hoping he would be able to keep Jacob from being seen, but they came face to face with a lawman on the job.

Charlie Swan was standing there in Chief of Police mode and was quickly evaluating the scene. There had been reports of wolves howling in the woods and he'd come to investigate. He was preparing to call for backup when he got the shock of his life. His very pregnant daughter was being carried by Sam Uley with a humongous angry looking wolf right behind them.

Immediately, he had a flashback from the time Sam rescued Bella in the woods after Edward left her with no thought of her safety. It still made his heart sink into his stomach just to think about it. Charlie aimed his high powered rifle and yelled at Sam. "Run! Get my daughter in the house, now!"

He was so afraid he wouldn't be able to save them before the wolf attacked.

Bella looked up in horror and screamed when she saw the rifle.

Sam moved his body in front of Jacob. He knew Charlie was an excellent marksman. If his daughter was in danger he would shoot to kill.

"No Charlie! Don't shoot! He's not dangerous!"

Charlie heard his words but was puzzled. He motioned Sam aside and kept his rifle aimed.

Sam hurried to close the distance so he could explain.

When Charlie's finger moved to take the safety off Bella interrupted.

"No Dad! Please don't shoot!" She begged. "I know you don't understand but the wolf is Jacob!"

Bella was right, Charlie didn't understand. He thought she said, the wolf is Jacob's. He replied, "It's too dangerous Bells. He can't own a wolf." He'd never seen a wolf so large. Still determined to protect Bella, he didn't lower his rifle.

Jacob felt more in control and managed to phase back. He knew he could put a stop to this.

Charlie couldn't believe his eyes. His mouth flew open and he lowered his gun as he watched the massive wolf transform into his son in law. He looked on in shock. Everyone just stood still as the knowledge settled in. Charlie murmured, "What in the hell is going on?"

Jacob answered. "Everything's okay Charlie. I can explain."

Charlie narrowed his eyes. He didn't like being in the dark about things especially when it was his own family. His confusion quickly turned to anger when he saw Bella's appearance. "Well, somebody needs to start explaining why my daughter is so upset and being carried out of the woods while her husband turned into a wolf!"

Seeing how agitated her dad was, Bella tried to collect herself and said, "I'm okay. I can walk now Sam, put me down."

Oblivious to his naked state, Jacob put his arm around Bella. He was back to normal. "Let's go inside where we can talk, Charlie." He turned to Sam and instructed, "Get the guys together. You can come in the house in a little bit."

With that Charlie, Bella, and Jacob went inside so he could tell Charlie about their secrets. There really was no way to give him bits and pieces. He deserved full disclosure after what he'd seen.

Jacob gave him a condensed version of their tribal history along with details of the vampires. Charlie didn't handle the news as easily as Bella had. He made her rest on the sofa while he ranted at Jacob, grilling him with lots of questions. He was enraged at being kept in the dark for so many years. In the end, he admitted it explained a lot of things that had been a mystery before.

He accepted the knowledge of the wolves pretty well. His love for Billy and Jacob made it easier. He felt very loyal to them even though he was disappointed that his best friend had kept so many secrets through the years. Keeping secrets was a big part of his job. He was confident that if Billy confided in him he could have kept it to himself.

Jacob was surprised when Charlie asked him why Billy never phased into a wolf. He was trying to figure out if his grandson would ever phase and if it skipped a generation.

When Charlie learned about the vampires he had a different reaction entirely. He was so angry about Edward Cullen he couldn't see straight. Furious that his daughter had been taken advantage of, he vowed if he ever saw that boy again he was going to set him on fire with a blowtorch.

Something else upset him far more. It rocked his foundation to learn that Bella had once considered becoming a vampire. He couldn't imagine what had gotten into his daughter for her to even think about it. He planned to sit down and have a heart to heart talk with her as soon as they were alone. Somehow he felt like he'd failed her as a father for her to even consider the idea. Didn't she know how much he loved her? Now he understood a little better why Jacob was so upset when he was trying to get Bella to realize her feelings for him. Thank God she came to her senses. The thought of never seeing her again made him feel physically sick.

When the pack settled down they came into the house and started rummaging through the kitchen cabinets for something to eat. They were left with ravenous appetites after the confrontation with Aro.

Charlie called the station to let them know the wolves reported in the area must have moved on. He grabbed a beer and announced he was going to take a shower. The pack could hear Charlie on the phone with Billy upstairs.

"Get your ass over here! All hell just broke loose and now I've got a bunch of wolves in my house."

While Charlie was upstairs Jacob held an emergency pack meeting so they could come up with plans. They all knew it was possible for Aro to change his mind and come back to attack them or try to hurt Bella.

After Billy arrived they ordered food from the local pizzeria. The pack stuffed themselves and crashed in the living room. It took several hours before Charlie noticed no one was leaving. He didn't really understand why until Billy explained Jacob was the Alpha. They needed to stay close to Jacob after the scare with the Volturi.

Later in the evening Jacob and Bella were sitting in the kitchen with Charlie and Billy. Jacob was bringing his father up to date about the events of the day. He looked at his father with an intensity they'd rarely seen. It was as if he'd grown up almost overnight. Speaking through clenched teeth he said, "I couldn't do it today, but mark my words, if I ever see that leech again I'll tear him from limb to limb. There won't be a speck of dust left." There was no doubt in their minds he meant every word.

His father nodded with pride and Charlie slapped Jacob on the back. "Damn right, Jake."

When it started getting late Billy decided to spend the night. After Jacob got him settled in the recliner, he and Bella went upstairs to bed.

Two wolves stood guard in the woods nearby so their Alpha could rest. None of them were taking any chances. Sam and Paul were patrolling in the area just in case Aro showed up again.

Jacob and Bella lay on their sides facing each other. The emotion was palpable in the room. Bella had tears falling down her face. Jacob kept touching her and wiping the tears away, needing constant contact. The impact of what happened felt like a heavy weight on his heart.

"We could have lost each other out there today." His voice was low and full of emotion. Neither one of them had adequate words to explain how they felt. His hand ran down her body as the threat of tears burned his eyes. The thought of losing Bella and the baby was inconceivable.

Bella shivered as she clung to him, unable to get close enough.

"Jake, hold me closer." He tightened his arms around her, whispering endearments to her.

She snuggled into his neck. "Closer," she demanded.

Jacob chuckled. "Honey, I can't get any closer." He pulled away slightly so he could see her face. "Unless I'm inside you."

Bella nodded and replied, her voice full of longing. "I think that's what I need." She wrapped her arms around him tightly.

He'd thought they wouldn't be having sex again until after the baby came. He didn't want to hurt her. Hearing the desperate need in her voice, he gently took her face in his hand. "I think it's what I need too." He kissed her deeply and made tender, passionate love to her, satisfying something deep inside. Every touch and caress was like a healing balm.

Finally at peace, Bella started getting sleepy. Jacob held her in his arms savoring the feeling of her against his chest. They snuggled together for a long time until the baby kicked the hand he was resting on her stomach.

Jacob leaned down to talk to their little one. His words were full of devotion and love. It made Bella's heart swell with happiness as she drifted into her dreams. That night she slept contentedly in the arms of a very thankful man.

"So live your life that fear of death can never enter your heart."

- Tecumseh -The Great Shawnee Warrior

A/N: Thank you so much for reading. Only two chapters left!