*I don't own any of the characters from Twilight. They belong to Stephenie Meyer. I only own the original characters in this story.
Chapter 38
Bella slowly opened her eyes. The softly lit room was cold. She turned her head and stopped. The pounding inside her head felt like a jackhammer. She tried to grab her head but her hands were tied behind her back. The taste in her mouth was making her nausea's. She started to panic. Oh God, where is she? Where's Jacob? Is he okay? She froze when a cold hand touched her cheek.
"Don't move," Evie whispered. She untied Bella's hands making sure not to rip the tape too fast. "Edward and Alice were outside the door earlier." She moved to Bella's feet and removed the tape. She had a strong feeling Alice was trying to stall Edward from seeing Bella until she could explain the little visitor.
"My mouth," Bella gasped. "Taste awful." She rubbed her jaw as she sat up realizing she was on a bed. "Where are we?"
"It feels like a warehouse," Evie began as she walked to the wall and lightly tapped it. "Someone walked by earlier and their footsteps seemed to echo. The walls aren't sturdy, take a look." She pointed to the wall behind her. The crappy wallpaper was torn along with some plywood. There was nothing but concrete behind it.
"Oh God," Bella gasped as she covered her mouth. He took her. He took her away from her family, the man she loves and he involved her cousin.
"Let me help you," Evie stated pulling Bella's arm over her shoulder. "The bastards used chloroform which knocked us out. It leaves a penny taste in your mouth." She chuckled when Bella gave her a weird look. "There's a bathroom and some mouthwash. I'm more than positive they used the same thing on Leah when they shot her with a dart." She turned the light in the bathroom on.
"How do you know it was Chloroform?" Bella asked. She reached for the glass sitting on the counter as she tried to spit out the nasty taste in her mouth. She hesitated before taking the mouthwash.
"Toby found out Craig was trying to make it. He switched out the formula," Evie commented. She held Bella when she began to shake as she placed her hand over her stomach. "The baby will be fine, I promise," she carefully whispered in Bella's ear.
"How did you know?" Bella asked wiping at her eyes. "We just found out ourselves." She was already in love with Jacob's baby, their baby. They were young but they could make it work.
"Paul mentioned something about you smelling different," Evie said looking around. She didn't think they would bug the bathroom but she wasn't positive. "I almost hit him with a fry pan until he explained." She looked at Bella's reflection in the mirror. Her normal pale skin was almost translucent.
"I should have known," Bella said shaking her head. She grabbed the mouthwash and took a capful.
"If Paul noticed your scent, Edward will too," Evie rubbed Bella's back. She could see the fear in Bella's eyes.
Bella spit out the mouthwash. "That's what I'm afraid of," she whispered with tears in her eyes. Her hands were covering her stomach. "I won't allow him to hurt my baby." She looked down as tears began to fall. She leaned on Evie knowing it was just the two of them until Jacob and the rest of the Pack could find them.
"Let's think positive," Evie whispered. "We have to stay calm." Of course it was easier said than done.
"How long do you think we've been here?" Bella asked taking a deep breath.
"From my guess we've been out for about two hours," Evie whispered. "Edward wanted to come in earlier but Alice told him to give you some time especially since you were still knocked out." She looked out into the bedroom knowing Edward wouldn't wait much longer. "I doubt he knew you were still tied up."
"Your right, once he realizes how much I've changed," Bella spoke slowly as if she was trying to figure out their next move.
"I know I'm no match against Alice or Edward …," Evie's voice trailed off. She didn't have a plan or even the thought of a plan.
"Jacob and the others will come looking for us," Bella said looking around with hope in her voice. "Is there anything we can use?" She began to look through the drawers but they were empty except for a couple of toothbrushes.
"No," Evie answered. "I checked all the drawers and found nothing useful. I started to panic and checked for cameras or listening devices like the ones they used in Forks, but nothing." She walked out into the bedroom and went to the door. There was light at the bottom but a shadow seemed to go by. She put her ear to the door but only heard muffled voices.
"Can you hear anything?" Bella asked sitting on the bed. She felt a little queasy. The deep breath she took helped but not much. She needed Jacob. It was her fault they were trapped. She should have listened to Billy in the beginning…no she wasn't going to keep punishing herself for the past.
"I can't make out what they are saying," Evie replied. She noticed how pale Bella quickly became. She rushed over to her. "Hey, lay down for a moment." She felt her forehead which was fine. She pulled the blanket from the end of the bed and covered her.
"Do you think something is wrong with the baby?" Bella asked with tears in her eyes.
"No, but I think you might have morning sickness," Evie responded. She sat on the bed. "Valisa said she was sick the moment she conceived Derek." She held her hand. "I just hope Paul and Jacob find us….fast." She watched the shadows move along the bottom of the door.
"Why stop at this place?" Bella asked sitting up. "I'm his prisoner. Why not take me far away? Make it impossible for Jacob or the others to find us?" She started to bite her bottom lip.
"I was thinking the same thing but I thought it was wrong to voice it," Evie smirked.
"Not funny Evie," Bella snapped.
"Edward has you for the moment. But what doesn't make sense is taking me? He can't read my mind and I'm not afraid of Alice, which isn't a good thing according to Paul and Embry," Evie stated ignoring Bella's warning look.
Thunder echoed all around making them both jump. A cold breeze moved throughout the room. They knew it was only the beginning of something bad.
"They have to be close," Jasper said. "They can't risk Bella or Evie waking up and drawing attention to them." He hit a nearby tree. They were a mile away from the diner but unable to turn up anything.
"If you kept a better eye on that fucking leech you call a cousin," Paul shouted. "We would have known about your fucking brother making a move to kidnapped Evie and Bella." He rushed towards Jasper but Jacob and Sam held him back.
"Losing your temper won't bring Evie or Bella back," Sam yelled. "We need to work together and find them." He pushed Paul back keeping Jacob between them. "With Bella being pregnant it makes it that much more urgent." He took a deep breath knowing it was a lot to ask of his Pack brother. Bella was their first priority. She was carrying the true Alpha's pup.
"Charlie, Billy and my dad are coordinating with Edgar and Elijah," Embry stated as he hung up his phone. "Valisa's requesting hourly updates." It was only a matter of time before she showed up demanding answers.
"How's Leah?" Jacob asked. He was shaking as he tried to keep it together.
"Sue's said she fine," Embry replied. He ran his hand down his face. "But Leah's angry and on her way here. She's blaming herself." He wanted to hit something.
"It's not her fault," Paul quietly said. "We were all there and didn't pick up on their scent." He ran his hand through his hair. "The little pixie knew we would be there but how?"
"What do you mean how?" Emmett asked. "Alice was concentrating on Bella and knew the exact moment she would be alone." He was standing in front of Paul.
"But she can't see us," Embry pointed out. "Remember the Newborn Battle." He ran his hand through his hair.
"Since Bella's pregnant, the fortune teller shouldn't be able to see her," Paul commented. He began to pace but quickly stopped. "The leech was tracking Evie." He was glaring at Jasper.
"We have to find them and fast," Jacob stated as he headed toward the trees. He couldn't take standing around anymore. He needed to do something.
Embry watched his friend punch at the air as his anger began to take over. "We'll find them," he said. "There is no way in hell my sister is going to let anything happen to Bella or the baby. She's too strong willed for her own good." Evie would protect her family and friends without a single thought to her own wellbeing. It was one of the things he loved about his sister but it was also a major fault when it came to self-preservation.
"I know," Jacob muttered as he ran his hand down his face. "I won't lose Bella or the baby. We've come too far to have everything taken away." He could see the look of determination in his Pack Brother's eyes.
"The rest of the Pack is on its way. We can check along the perimeter and along the roads," Sam said before looking at Jasper and Emmett. "You two need to fill in the rest of your coven." He headed towards the trees. He knew Jacob needed to run.
Jasper grabbed Paul's arm before he could leave. "I'm truly sorry about Evie," he stated. "She's special as is Bella." He stuck out his hand to Paul.
The ice cold burn Paul felt when he touched Jasper's hand was nothing to the anger he felt towards the men who took Evie. "I want Evie back in one piece unharmed," he said pulling hard on Jasper's hand. "If Jacob and Bella lose their baby, it's your head." He let go and ran towards the trees.
"The rest of the Pack is close by," Embry said to Emmett and Jasper. "Some of our newest members are still having a hard time controlling themselves around your kind." He watched Leah walk through the trees.
"Where is everyone?" Leah asked running into Embry's arms. She slightly trembled.
"Sam, Jacob and Paul are running a perimeter as well as checking along the roads," Embry replied breathing in her scent. "Are you sure you're okay?" he asked looking into her eyes. He gently cupped her face.
"Yeah," she replied. "That stuff didn't knock me out for long. I have to find Bella and Evie. They were my responsibility." She stuck her hands in her back pocket. "Damn it I forgot to give this Paul." She pulled out a white envelope.
"Where did you get this?" Embry asked looking at the envelope.
Jasper stopped Carlisle and the rest of the Cullen's. He began to explain about the kidnapping and Bella being pregnant. Rosalie and Esme gasped. They had no idea how Edward would react.
"Evie must have dropped it when…when she was taken," Leah answered. She knew he would probably go ballistic after he caught a certain scent.
Embry immediately smelled Angie and Jason's scents but he also caught the faint scent of Mitchell. He opened the envelope and began to read the letter.
"What does it say?" Leah asked cautiously.
"Fuck," Embry yelled. "That son of a bitch Mitchell knew they were going to kidnap Bella and Evie. The fucking coward left and hoped his shitty letter might help in some way." He began to shake. He dropped the letter and his phone before jumping back as he phased. He growled as the rest of the Pack broke through the trees.
Leah picked up the letter. She quickly read the letter and faced the Cullen's. "They have been planning this for a while but someone kept blocking their efforts," she handed the letter to Esme. "They are being held in a warehouse by the water. He doesn't give a city or any other information." She knew Embry was relaying the letter to the rest of the Pack.
Esme quickly read the letter. "He said there's time to save them if they've been kidnapped," she said confused. "We only have a few days."
"Mitchell's no longer with them," Carlisle added as he read over Esme's shoulder. "Maybe we can pick up a trail along the docks." He turned to his family. "We'll head towards Seattle and Tacoma." He motioned for Esme to follow him but she pulled away.
"I think I should stay with Leah," Esme replied. "I can be the go between for our family and Leah can do the same for her Pack." The thought of them trying to coordinate with so much distance between them would delay finding Bella and Evie.
Leah looked at Embry as he stood shoulder to shoulder with her Pack Brothers. "I'll stay," she finally said. "Embry has enough to worry about with Evie missing. I can phase when needed to relay any information." She ran her hands through Embry's fur.
"We need to get Bella back," Rosalie stated. "This type of stress isn't good for the baby." She looked at Emmett with regret in her eyes.
Jared led Collin, Elijah and Gavin back through the trees. He was going to meet up with Sam. If there was any change they would know through the Pack link.
"The heavy rain from earlier will play a huge factor in tracking any of their scents," Rosalie stated taking Emmett's hand. "It's almost dark which will help hide us from human eyes." She pulled her hair away from her face as she looked upon the wolves.
"I doubt they will hide in Seattle after that body washed up at the park," Emmett said holding up his hands when Embry growled. "Sorry it wasn't meant to be disrespectful. I'm just pointing out Edward doesn't like to get his hands dirty."
"Your right Emmett," Jasper's southern drawl seemed to echo around them. "He would want to stay close." He looked around. "We need to check every inch from here to Port Angeles and Tacoma. There are a lot of abandoned warehouses along the waterfronts." He motioned for Emmett to follow him.
Embry licked Leah's arm before turning and following the rest of the Pack. They knew every second counted and they didn't have a moment to waste.
"You should have told me," Edward hissed as he glared at Alice. "The mongrel took Bella's innocence as his seed grows inside her." He slammed his hand down on the desk breaking it in half. "We need to get rid of that abomination before it kills her." He walked out of the room with Alice right behind him.
Alice quickly blocked him from going near the room. "If you go in there bad mouth Jacob it will only further push her away," she immediately said before he could speak. "You know I'm telling the truth." She showed him bits and pieces. "In a few days we will have Bella back to her old self." She smiled knowing things were finally working out for them.
"It explains why you couldn't see Bella these last few days," he stated leaning against the wall. He pinched the bridge of his nose and closed his eyes. As much as he hated to admit it, Alice was right. Bella needed his support not his anger. Even though their plan was to leave as soon as they had Bella, Alice's new vision changed everything. They couldn't run far and the punishment would be swift. Their only hope was a trade.
"They are both awake so be cautious," she suggested. "Evie has a tendency to push buttons." She placed her hands behind her back and walked down the hall. "Evie already untied Bella. Sorry but I couldn't see it before hand." She made a face.
"You really don't like her," he smirked as he followed her. He lightly chuckled when she mentally told him off. "She'll be gone in a few days. Bella and I will finally get to start on our forever." He took a deep breath knowing he didn't need to but of course it helped mentally prepare him. Losing the chance to untie Bella showing how he saved her from the dog was taken away from him. To say he was disappointed was an understatement.
He opened the door placing a big smile on his face. "Bella love, your awake," he noticed Evie push Bella behind her as they sat on the bed. His love looked angry. No doubt by Evie's ridiculous notion she needed to protect her from him.
"Why did you take us?" Evie asked. She kept Bella behind her.
"You'll find out your fate soon enough," Alice remarked. She glared at Evie with enough hatred to make any normal person drop and beg for mercy.
"Edward, why did you do this?" Bella asked. She held onto Evie's arm.
"Can't you see your upsetting her?" Edward scolded as he took a step towards Bella but stopped when she backed away. "My love I am so sorry the dog violated you in such a way. I will never forgive myself knowing he impregnated you against your will. I know of your desire to remain pure until our wedding night." He looked away knowing he failed to protect his future wife.
"What are you talking about?" Bella asked confused.
"It's okay Bella, we know Jacob took advantage of you," Alice wanted to comfort her best friend but Bella was glaring at her.
"Jacob didn't rape me Edward," Bella angrily shouted. "I gave myself to him willingly. We love each other and there is nothing you can do to change that." She was on her feet glaring at her former boyfriend. It felt like she was really seeing Edward for the first time. His youthful looks were just that. He would forever be seventeen with the mindset from his era.
"You don't know what you're saying love. He's brainwashed you into believing his lies," Edward reached out to touch Bella's cheek but she pushed his hand away.
Bella moved her right arm in front of Evie. It wasn't just her life at stake. Her baby and Evie's lives were in her hands. "Let us go Edward," she said through clenched teeth as she placed her hand over her stomach. "What I felt for you was unhealthy and unnatural. I never should have gotten involved with you." She stood her ground as she protected her baby.
"But you love Edward," Alice said in a pleading tone. "I saw you as one of us." She moved from her spot by the door to stand directly in front of Bella. She heard Evie gasp. "Don't be afraid, I won't hurt you." At least not yet, she thought.
Evie smirked. "Still not afraid of you," she stated. "Just not use to you moving so fast. It's almost like watching a nat." She watched Alice's eyes become unfocused. "Yeah, killing me isn't an option either. You need me for some reason." She continued to watch Alice.
Bella squeezed Evie's hand and immediately Alice became focused as she frowned. Evie and Bella looked at each other and then looked at their joined hands. They both smirked and gave each other a nod.
"They are blocking my vision," Alice quickly thought knowing Edward would hear her.
"Yes it is interesting," Edward quietly stated to Alice before looking at Bella and Evie. "I'm sorry my love but unfortunately you're not making the right decisions." He turned to leave but stopped. "I'll have some food brought in. You will need to build your strength over the next few days. Once that abomination is gone, you'll feel much better." He turned to Alice. "Come we have much to discuss." He quickly left without waiting for Alice.
"I have a change of clothes for you," Alice said giving Bella a small smile. "I'll be back in a moment." She quickly left leaving the cousins alone.
"Tell me everything about the guards for the Volturi," Evie quickly whispered as she pulled Bella back on the bed.
"Do you honestly think some of the guards are coming here?" Bella asked. She began to bite on her bottom lip.
"Yes. It doesn't make sense to keep you here or take me prisoner," Evie stated. "You told me the Volturi are feared by all. It makes sense why Edward and Alice are staying put. If they left it would look like they are running." The room began to warm up a bit.
"Good point. Alice and Edward aren't afraid of the rest of the Cullen's," Bella mumbled as she got up and began to pace. "They don't seem to fear anyone or anything. But yet we are still here which means something or someone is involved." She continued to pace. "It only leaves the Volturi."
Evie took Bella's hands and squeezed. "When we are connected," she lifted their joined hands. "I think it blocks Alice from seeing our future. There has to be a reason for us being here." She stood in front of Bella wishing for the answers to fall out of the sky. It's almost as if the answers were right in front of them but just out of reach.
The knock on the door made them huddle together. As the heavy wooden door opened Evie immediately glared at JT while she balled up her hands in fists. He had a big smile on his face. He placed a tray with bowls of food on the dresser.
"You look even better awake Evie," JT said giving her a once over. He leaned out into the hallway and grabbed a bag with varies drinks. "But not as good as you did in my arms." He winked at her.
Evie never took her eyes off JT. "He killed Rachel and Tiffany," she said angrily. "He's the reason why our family has been hurting." She never hated anyone in her life but JT was the first. Tiffany wasn't a great person but she was still Embry's mother.
"The drinks are cold and the food is still hot," JT opened a bottle of water and took a drink. "Alice will be in with some clothes for the both of you." He leaned against the doorframe.
"You've done your job," Evie snapped. "Leave." She didn't like the way he was looking at her.
"She's right for once," Alice commented as she walked into the room. She placed two bags on the bed. "Bye JT." She waved him away.
"We'll talk soon Evie," JT stated as he pushed away from the wall. He shook his head before walking out of the room.
"He's only ten years older than you Evie," Alice opened the bags and pulled out some clothes. "For some strange reason he's taken a liking to you." She smiled at Bella. "I know how much Edwards loves you in blue." She held out a blue blouse with short sleeves and buttons down the front.
"I'm not wearing that," Bella stated as she moved closer to the bags on the bed. She realized one of the bags on the bed was her overnight bag. She spotted her green long sleeved shirt and denim jeans. "When were you at my dad's house?" Her undergarments were at the bottom of the bag. She picked up the bag and dropped it on the bed. "Answer me," she angrily ordered.
Evie looked at the other bag of clothes. It was her carryon bag. There were a few clothes she had left at Bella's stuffed inside. She could see Alice was confused at Bella's anger.
"After your dad left for work this morning," Alice answered. "I wanted to buy you new clothes but Edward wanted to wait." She handed Bella the blouse but she refused to take it.
"I told you I'm not wearing it," Bella hissed. She grabbed the green shirt and jeans.
"But Edward loves you in blue," Alice pleaded but to no avail.
Bella shook her head. "I don't give a damn what Edward likes," she snapped. "When will you stop living in the past?" She placed her hand on her stomach. "This is my future, mine and Jacob's baby." She took a deep breath.
"But you love Edward," Alice quickly remarked. "You accepted his proposal. I've seen the wedding and it's beautiful." She happily bounced up and down.
"I love Jacob," Bella stated staring at Alice in disbelief. "I've always loved Jacob. My stupid fear of him imprinting made me push him away. But you knew that, didn't you." She scowled at Alice as everything fell into place.
"Edward knew too," Evie pointed out. "Which is why they used that fear against you, to control you and made you Edward's prisoner within that sick joke of a relationship," she watched Alice's facial expression go from hurt to angry in a nanosecond.
"You don't know what you're talking about," Alice angrily snapped. She was standing in front of Evie. "Bella and Edward were happy but that mongrel wouldn't stay away. They would be married by now and our family wouldn't be torn apart." She had her hand on Evie's throat. The thought of breaking her neck crossed her mind.
"Alice, what the hell are you doing?" Bella shouted as she tried to pull her hand away from Evie's throat.
Evie stared into Alice's eyes. The murderous look alone should have scared her but she knew Alice wouldn't kill her. They needed her for some sick reason. Whatever it was had them on edge.
"Alice, it would probably be best to give them time to change and eat," Edward said as he appeared next to Alice. He removed her hand from Evie's throat. "It seems you bring out a dangerous side of Alice's personality." He gave Evie a small smile.
"No, it's her natural instinct kicking in," Evie replied as Bella checked her throat.
"We don't feed on humans," Edward retorted frustrated. He watched Bella care for her cousin.
"Ever?" Evie asked with a knowing look.
Bella pulled Evie behind her when Edward touched her cheek. "Don't touch me," she snapped. Her skin felt icy cold where his finger moved along her cheek. "If you think for one moment I'm going to let you hurt my baby, you're crazier than Alice." The only thing going through her mind was protecting her family. "I'm not the same naïve girl you once knew." Her arms were out by her side.
Edward watched as a red tint seemed to cover Bella and Evie. It was as if she was shielding them from him. He backed away with his hands slightly raised. He gave them a nod before leaving and closing the door.
Bella looked over her shoulder. "Did you see a red tint?" she asked to afraid to move.
"I sure did," Evie answered impressed. "Plus you put Edward in his place." She high-fived Bella and smiled.
"Yeah, but he's too thick headed to listen," Bella frowned. She sat on the bed. "How's your neck?" She didn't see any marks or discolor on Evie's skin.
"I'm fine," Evie replied. "As much as she would love to hurt or kill me, she can't." She sat next to Bella. "What are you thinking?"
Bella's face lite up as she thought of one scenario after another. "By the look on Alice's face and the way Edward is acting," she got up and began to pace. "Someone from the Volturi is coming. I was supposed to be changed already but that's not happening." She turned at the entrance to the bathroom.
"What are the names of the twin guards?" Evie asked digging into her bag. She knew there was a pen and notepad somewhere. "One causes pain and the other one numbs you, right?" She smiled as she pulled out a pen a few pieces of paper.
"Jane causes pain while Alec cuts off all sensory deprivation. They are considered the best offense weapons the Volturi possess," Bella said grabbing a bottle of water. "I think I have an idea to test your shield." She raised her eyebrow at Evie.
Carlisle watched as Jasper paced and mumbled about strategies but he wasn't making sense. "What are you thinking?" he finally asked.
Jasper stopped pacing when a naked Embry walked out from the surrounding trees by the Cullen's garage. He stood in front of Jasper. Esme gasped and turned away when she walked into the garage with Rosalie and Leah behind her. Leah crossed her arms and glared as Rosalie looked Embry over with a big smile on her face.
"What the hell are you mumbling about?" Embry asked through clenched teeth. Being naked didn't bother him as it once use to. Phasing as quickly as they sometimes had to do really didn't leave room for modesty.
"Why wouldn't Edward leave right away with Bella?" Jasper asked. They spent twelve straight hours looking for something, anything to lead them to Bella and Evie. When it began to pour they headed back. "He's evaded us this entire time. We are always one step behind him. Why wait when it seems he's clearly won?" he asked looking around.
"Mitchell said we still have time to save them," Embry replied running his hand through his hair. "Why would they stay around for a few days?" He looked out towards the trees when he noticed Seth. "Tell Jacob, Sam and Paul what's going on." He caught the extra shorts Brady threw him.
"What would make you stick around Major?" Quil asked. After searching Edward and Alice's last hide out and turning up nothing, he was ready to hear anything that might help.
"I know that look," Emmett commented as he walked into the garage.
Jasper smirked before turning to Carlisle. "Do you think Aro sent Demetri or Jane?" he asked knowing Aro had an unusual fascination with Bella. If he learned Evie was similar to Bella there could be trouble for all of them.
"Demetri is a highly skilled tracker," Carlisle explained. "He can track anyone but we feel with Bella's ability to block her mind, Demetri might not be able to track her." He turned to Embry. "Your sister Evie has the same ability." It probably wasn't the right time to bring it up but maybe it would help Embry to know Evie wasn't completely powerless.
"I know Edward can't read her mind," Embry replied crossing his arms. "But he can't read Bella's either." Something wasn't making sense. "Bella told us about your Vampire Royalty including their guard." For the first time the Doc looked nervous.
"Aro took an interest in Bella," Jasper stated. "Since Bella told you about the guards, I assume she told you their abilities." By the look on Embry and Leah's faces they knew.
Seth moved a bit closer as he allowed the rest of the Pack to hear the conversation. He knew Jacob and Paul needed to hear what was going on.
Quil and Elijah moved closer to Embry and Leah. They could sense their Pack brother and sister's tension.
"Yes," Leah answered. "Bella also told us some of the guards couldn't use their abilities on her. What does this have to do with Evie?" she asked taking Embry's hand.
"Aro has a personal guard name Renata," Carlisle replied. "She has the ability to divert you from approaching her or Aro. She also projects her shield to include Caius and Marcus." The unfriendly growl coming from Embry was expected.
"Bella's shield is similar to Renata," Jasper continued. "Charlie also has a similar ability but his thoughts are more blurred. Not completely closed off as Bella and Evie. It seems the Swan family is quite remarkable." The wind began to blow as the rain stopped.
"Evie's shield blocks Edward from reading her mind but she is also able to block Alice from seeing her decisions which affects Alice's visions. She can also block Jasper's gift to control emotions," Carlisle added. "Of course she does all of this without realizing it as does Bella." He took a step back when two loud growls filled the air.
"Seems Paul and Jacob are on their way here," Embry snapped. "Why didn't you tell us this before? You not only put Bella's life in danger but my sister's as well." He moved Leah behind him.
"I agree," Rosalie responded. She was standing with her arms crossed. "Since they still feel keeping you in the dark is better." She gestured to Carlisle and Jasper. "If Aro finds out about Evie, he will definitely make a move to acquire Bella and Evie." She ignored Emmett's attempt to pull her back.
"What do you mean acquire?" Leah asked holding onto Embry. "They collect people?"
"Our cousin from the north, Eleazar was once in the Volturi Guard," Carlisle pulled Esme behind him when he heard Jacob and Paul approach. "He left after noticing Aro would claim of a witness who accused another coven of breaking our laws." He knew it was going to be a bad confrontation with the young wolves.
"Aro would learn of a vampire possessing a unique ability," Jasper continued. "He would pardon the gifted one and kill the rest. The pardoned one would feel grateful and join the guard." He raised his hand when Quil and Embry opened their mouths. "I know what you're thinking but their freewill was taken away by Chelsea. She has the ability break the bonds between people and bind them to the Volturi." He turned when Jacob and Paul ran into the garage.
"You knew and didn't tell us," Paul yelled as he grabbed Jasper and pinned him against the wall. "The only way for that fucking leech to save Bella is to sacrifice Evie." He began to shake making Jasper vibrate against the wall so hard it began to crack and cave in.
"Paul this isn't helping," Sam yelled as he grabbed his right arm. Jacob was holding his left arm. "We need to work together." He stood between Paul and Jasper. He turned to Carlisle. "We need to know everything. It's the only way to plan how best to find Bella and Evie." He stayed between Paul and Jasper.
Embry went up to Paul. "I know how you feel," he said with a murderous glare aimed at Jasper. "But Sam's right. We need to work together." Paul turned and glared at him. He could see the pain in his Pack Brother's eyes. It mirrored his pain.
"Bells told us about the Volturi," Jacob said with his arms crossed over his chest as he tried to contain his anger. "She explained about the guards that showed up after the Newborn battle. We know their abilities but what more do we need to know?"
"Jasper and I will explain it the best we can," Carlisle cautiously said as he watched the younger wolves move back towards the door of the garage. "I lived with the Volturi for a few centuries." He gestured to Jasper.
"I've seen what the guards can do when the rules are broken," Jasper said in his southern drawl. "They can wipe out entire covens with the arsenal they have." He knew they would only send a few guards but Aro liked to over think things.
"Aro, Marcus and Caius never leave Volterra unless they are acquiring a new vampire with a useful skill to strengthen their guard," Carlisle explained. "But it doesn't mean they won't send their most trusted guards to check on Bella." He wasn't surprised by their anger.
"You placed our friends in danger," Elijah yelled. He tried to take a step forward but Edgar stopped him.
"Unfortunately the Volturi had their eyes set on Bella months ago," Jasper said placing his hands behind his back. "They set a few of their guards to check on her after the Newborn Battle."
"It makes sense for them to check on Bella now that she and Edward are no longer together," Emmett commented as he leaned against the wall.
"But how did the Volturi know Bella and Edward aren't together?" Leah asked. She rolled her eyes when Jacob grumbled.
"Please, they have spies who are more than willing to give them information," Rosalie scoffed. She looked at the younger wolves. "After the Newborn Battle, the Volturi had a few of their guards pay us a visitor." She stepped closer to Jacob and Paul while she moved her hair over her shoulder. "They wanted to make sure Bella would follow through with her promise to change." She held her hand up when the wolves began to grumble.
"The promise is null and void now that Bella is with a shape shifter," Emmett patted Jacob on the back.
"It's not that simple," Jasper said with a shake of his head. "We need to know if the Volturi is sending anyone and if they are who." He smacked Emmett in the head. "I know what you are thinking and we don't want to start a fight with the guards." By the look on Emmett's eyes, he knew his brother didn't hear a word he said.
"I think our patrol schedule needs to change to accommodate this new information," Quil said looking from Sam to Jacob. He raised his hands and took a few steps back when Sam gave him a look. "It was only a suggestion, my mighty Alpha." He gave a little bow.
Rosalie smiled. "With the Pack going in pairs," she moved closer to Emmett. "Why doesn't one of us patrol with them but a few miles away? We can cover more ground with three of us out there plus it won't leave La Push unguarded." She waited for Sam or Carlisle to respond.
"It might help given with this rain washing away scents and prints," Carlisle looked to Sam. "Of course it is entirely up to you. We are more than willing to patrol on our own to find the girls." He knew the young wolves might not have control like the older ones.
"One of us can patrol with a younger pup the first time around," Paul suggested. He looked at Elijah, Edgar and Gavin. "You three will need to learn control fast. Evie and Bella's lives depend on all of us focusing and finding them soon." He watched his younger Pack Brother's stand a bit taller as if accepting the challenge to prove their worth.
"Not a bad idea," Quil smiled. "Seth and I will take Elijah. I know the kid needs to check on Gina." He gestured to the Cullen's. "You figure out who's joining us. We can all meet up in twenty minutes behind the diner." He tapped Seth and Elijah on the shoulder.
"Edgar and I will run a perimeter of La Push. The rest of you head home and rest. Jacob, Gavin and Jared will take next patrol while Paul and Embry relieve us in La Push," Sam said moving to leave. He looked at Carlisle. "Find out who might be coming. The sooner we know the better chance we have to come up with a plan." He followed Edgar out.
Valisa didn't care about her safety, her granddaughter was missing and her boys were no closer to finding her or Bella. Two whole days had gone by with no word from the kidnappers and very little from the Pack. She was done waiting and needed answers. She kept her eyes forward watching Charlie's cruiser lead the way to the Cullen's house.
They turned off the main road onto a dirt road. She knew her boys would know it was them. The road was lined with trees and seemed to go on forever but it suddenly opened up to show a huge white house with windows. The boys were lingering around the opening of a big garage.
Charlie stopped the cruiser. He got out and opened the back pulling Billy's wheelchair out. Sue got out and quickly went to Derek's car. She began to help Valisa pull out the containers of food.
"Paul," Derek shouted. He climbed out of the car. "Arguing amongst your selves won't bring Evie or Bella back." He ignored Sam's gesture to stay away. When he was close enough, he placed his hand on Paul's shoulder. "Let Jasper go son. We need as many supernatural people as we can get. My daughter and niece are the main focus." He placed his other hand on Paul's wrist.
Jacob and Sam were a few steps behind Paul in case they needed to move Derek out of the way. They were both surprised at how Paul reacted to Derek's order. When there was space between Paul and Jasper, Derek stepped between them.
"Dad," Embry said as he tried to move to protect Derek but Quil and Leah held him back.
"Let Derek deal with Paul," Leah calmly stated. She motioned for Emmett to pull Jasper away. The tension between Jasper and Paul was reaching its breaking point. Paul felt Jasper was still holding out.
"I need her back," Paul said with a lost look in his eyes. "Part of me is missing and she's the only one who can make me whole." Derek grabbed his shoulders forcing him look. "I'm sorry. Your right, we need to think about the girls and not our pain." He nodded as Derek patted his cheek.
Quil and Elijah were the first ones to hug Valisa. She was like the grandmother of the den. The wolf's natural instinct was to stay close to Valisa. They felt the need to protect her especially with leeches in close proximity. Embry shot them both a look. He didn't want Valisa here but there was no stopping her when her mind was set.
After they informed the parents of the kidnapping, Valisa and Marshall insisted on meeting the Cullen's. They wanted to hear for themselves the Cullen's were willing to sacrifice not only for Evie and Bella but for the wolves as well. They weren't willing to take chances when it came to their new family.
"I know you boys are running on empty," Valisa called out as she carried a platter of fried chicken. "Quil, Embry and Elijah I want you boys to grab the rest of the food from the back of the car." She motioned with her head for them go. "Go on now. Don't make me tell you boys twice." She sensed their hesitation to leave her side when Esme gave her a hug. She gave them a stern look before they quickly took off. "Sorry Esme for intruding like this but my boys need to eat. They need their energy to find my girls." She placed the platter on the counter towards the back of the garage.
"There are tables inside," Esme offered as she headed towards the house.
Sue hugged Leah and Seth. She gave a sigh of relief as she held her children close. In the back of her mind she knew they were built for this but as mother, she would never stop worrying.
"I think it would be best to keep the boys outside. Some of the younger ones are still adjusting," Marshall replied. "But thank you for the offer." He motioned to Emmett and Jacob. "Let's get a few tables set up for the food." He patted Emmett on the back and then held his hand. His entire palm was red.
"Sorry Marshall," Emmett quickly said. He looked at Jacob. "We just met them and they are ordering us around." He shook his head.
"You could always say no," Jacob remarked with a smirked. He knew there was no way anyone could stop Valisa, not even a leech.
"No," Emmett replied. "Esme would kill me for being rude and Valisa scares me. She doesn't look like the kind of woman who puts up with anyone's shit." He took a few tables that were leaning against the wall.
"Emmett," Esme scolded. She stood in front of him with her hands on her hips.
"I'm sure your momma raised you better than to speak like that around company," Valisa stated with a raise of her eyebrow.
"Yes ma'am," Emmett said with his head down.
Jasper looked away laughing. He'd never seen Emmett so humble and docile. Usually he was loud and sometimes obnoxious.
Jacob gave Valisa a kiss on the cheek before setting up the tables close to the opening of the garage.
"Sugar," Valisa called as she opened her arms to Paul. She gave him a tight hug. "I need you to eat. Evie would be upset if you wasted away." She patted Paul's arm.
"Yes Nana," Paul answered as he placed a few chairs around the tables.
Embry gave Marshall a quick hug before walking over to Valisa. "Nana you shouldn't be here," he lightly cautioned. He had his arm around her shoulders.
"It's been two day since Evie and Bella were taken," Valisa turned to face Embry. "I've only seen you and Paul for a few minutes in those two days. We need answers, even if it's the same information from two days ago." She held his face in her hands. "Someone is trying to tear my family apart and there is nothing I can do to stop it." She tried to stop the tears she held in for the last few days but they began to fall on their own.
Embry wiped the tears from Valisa cheeks. He nodded knowing she needed to be close even for a brief moment. "We'll get them back. I promise," he kissed the top of her head as she cried.
Derek stood off to the side to watch everyone. Embry was holding Valisa. He knew his mom needed to be around Embry and Paul. It was her connection to Evie. Marshall was loading up a plate as well as Paul's plate. Charlie and Billy were talking to Jacob while Sue sat with her kids. They needed this even for a moment. He pulled out Evie's phone. It was the second time Beth had called. He didn't know what to say to her but he knew it was just a matter of time before Jerry and Toby started to call.
Paul placed his plate on the table and looked over Derek's shoulder. "Is that the first time Beth called?" he asked taking a seat. "She was supposed to send a video to Evie." Derek handed him the phone. "Tank and Dave got in trouble. I'll respond before she calls again." He sent a quick text saying the guys were released from punishment. He set the phone down and picked at his food.
"Let's hope it works," Derek replied. He sat next to Paul. "Jerry might end up calling since they haven't heard from her in two days." He held the phone between his hands.
"We'll tell them Evie is sick and can't talk," Embry advised as he sat down.
They all looked at Evie's phone when Jerry's smiling face appeared. Derek looked at Paul and Embry as the phone continued to ring.
Bella wiped her mouth with a napkin. "Why do they call it morning sickness?" she asked with a weak smile. "It's six in the evening and I'm leaning over a bucket." She slid down the wall and sat on the floor.
Evie leaned against the doorframe of the bathroom. Her arms were crossed as she gave her cousin a small smile. "At least you were able to eat," she commented, "unlike yesterday." She laughed and moved out of the way when Bella threw a comb at her. "Sorry it's not funny." She sat next to her.
"At least with the unexpected storm, whatever plans they had are now on hold," Bella stated as she placed the bucket next to the toilet.
"Edward looked a bit relieved but also upset," Evie added. She placed her hands on her knees. "Of course Alice looked ready to kill until Ty calmed her down." She looked at Bella. "Did you hear Edward and JT talking last night?" She kicked the bathroom door closed when there was a knock at the bedroom door.
"Too bad there isn't a lock on the door," Bella mumbled. She grabbed Evie's hand. "You ready?" she asked concentrating on the bathroom door.
"Absolutely," Evie replied staring at the door.
Alice pushed the door open with little effort. She was getting tired of Evie blocking the door with the bed or dresser. If they didn't need her for the trade, she would be more than happy to kill her.
Bella and Evie held their breaths as the bathroom door slowly opened. They concentrated on Alice as she frowned. The light red haze was in front of them but it was different. Alice stared at them for a moment before rubbing her temples.
"Something feels off," Alice said looking around the bathroom. "You look better." She tried to smile at Bella but for some reason her head was hurting. "I'll be back." She turned and left the room as fast as she could.
Bella and Evie were breathing hard. They both wiped at their forehead.
"We need to practice more," Bella whispered. "The guards will be here in a few days." She moved closer to Evie. "They are not taking you." She wiped at her eyes.
"I'm not going anywhere," Evie replied. She bit the inside of her cheek to keep the tears from falling. Lying to keep Bella calm was one thing but trying to lie to herself was a different story. She closed her eyes and prayed Paul and the Pack would find them before it was too late.
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india8