The sky was still dark when we got the airport in Seattle. I clung to Jasper's hand as we entered the large building, tugging my suitcase behind me.
Esme accompanied me through check in and passport control, talking on my behalf. Carlisle had sorted a passport for me very quickly, although it contained a horrible photo of me inside. The terrifying woman at the passport desk seemed disapproving of my lack of speech, but eventually let Esme and I through.
Esme bought me some orange juice and gummy bears to keep me going until the flight. I sat on a bench with Jasper and Emmett on either side of me, and shared the gummy bears with them. For once, they made an effort to not rip each other's throats out.
I want to spend time with you both.
I showed them both the note.
I'll be unhappy if you fight again. Be friends.
Jasper cracked a smile and raised an eyebrow at Emmett.
And don't ignore Edward. He's lonely. He's your brother too.
"He prefers to be alone. He always has," Emmett shrugged, "Though I guess we kinda act like he's not there."
I glanced over at Edward, sitting alone and reading a book, listening to his iPod.
"Edward," Jasper called to him, "Come join us."
Edward hesitated, and was about to shake his head, but changed his mind and came over. I grinned at him, offering him a gummy bear.
"Thanks," he nodded, picking out an orange one.
I waited patiently for Emmett or Jasper to make conversation with him, but was left a little disappointed. He seemed happy enough reading though.
I took a while who I'd sit next to while on the plane, not wanting to upset Jasper or Emmett or cause another argument. I then realised that the plane had three seats on each row. Emmett sat me in the middle and let Jasper sit on my other side. I was relieved that they were cooperating.
I didn't realise how scary planes were until it took off. I stayed pinned back in my seat, eyes wide and clinging to Jasper's arm tightly. Emmett was laughing at me.
"Scary enough for you?" he grinned, "Stopped circulation in Jasper's arm for long enough?"
I let go of Jasper's arm and giggled, blushing a little. Jasper laughed quietly to himself.
"Rose used to be like that," he smiled at me, and I heard her groan from behind us, "And Esme. You're definitely not the first."
I ended up falling asleep again. I clearly wasn't compatible with early mornings. Unfortunately, no one carried me from the plane to the rental car. Emmett gently shook me awake, and allowed me to almost sleep while walking by leaning on him. We sat together in Esme's rental car, with Jasper in the front.
"Someone's still sleepy, I think," Esme smiled at me through her mirror's reflection, "You can have a nice, long rest once we get there."
She then gasped and cursed under her breath. She attempted to conceal it by clearing her throat.
"I didn't get them to sort out a room for you!" Esme's eyes were wide, "Don't worry, honey. We'll sort it all out. Maybe you could share with Rose…"
"No," Emmett and Jasper said, practically in unison.
"She's horrible to Alice," Emmett shook his head, "Alice can take my bear, share with Jasper. I'll go on the couch or something."
Emmett smiled at me and squeezed me gently.
"Is that alright with you both?" Esme asked, looking at Jasper and I in the reflection. We both nodded, "Well! All sorted then. Thanks, Emmett."
"Just looking out for my baby sister," Emmett grinned at me, gently mussing up my hair.
Emmett helped me get onto the boat to the island. It wobbled and bobbed on the water, and I almost struggled to stand to begin with. Once the boat was in motion, I struggled to keep my breakfast down, but managed to survive the crossing in one piece.
The house was completely ready for us. The fridge was stocked with food, the beds were made. Everything looked perfect. Part of me didn't want to leave, and this was partly due to the unpleasant boat ride. Jasper took me to our, formerly his and Emmett's room to put my bags down.
"You can get some rest, if you like," Jasper nodded, "You look a bit green."
I don't think I like boats.
Jasper smiled, "It'll pass, just go lie down."
Stay with me?
He hesitated, "Maria wouldn't like that," he sighed, but then shook his head, "She's not here. And besides, we're not doing anything."
That last comment made me smile. He was right, why would Maria be so cautious and insecure about Jasper caring for another girl?
I lay on the bed, and Jasper sat beside me. I wondered if Jasper was so cautious about Maria because our feelings were mutual. Maybe he was afraid to admit it in case I didn't feel the same. Maybe I should ask. I could. Although it would hurt if he didn't. I was afraid I really was just a kid to him. An adopted sister. Maybe he only looked out for me because I was small and sensitive. Maybe he felt sorry for me. I gently tugged on his sleeve, forcing the words out.
"I…" I began, and then seemed to freeze. Jasper watched me expectantly, but then his phone rang.
"Sorry," Jasper took out his phone. I wasn't surprised to find it was Maria. I ignored him and blocked him out, until he hung up.
"Sorry, darlin', what were you trying to tell me?" Jasper sat on the bed again. I shook my head forlornly.
