*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 53
"You seem a bit tense," Felix laughed. He loved irritating Jasper. The blond vampire acted like nothing bothered him. It annoyed him.
"I've never been more relaxed," Jasper replied with a slight nod and a smile. "How's the arm?" There was still bad blood between the two. After a few practice sessions he 'accidently' ripped Felix's arm off.
"Whatever," Felix grumbled. He walked away absently rubbing his arm. He didn't bother to look back.
The plane would land in a few moments. Jasper was becoming desperate for a plan to escape or at least warn the others. He had no idea when Aro sent out the other guards but they should already be in place. He hoped the wolves caught their scent before it was too late.
"You know he doesn't trust you," Jane said as she took a seat. "But then again most fail to fit in with the guards." She looked bored as she pretended to remove lint from her cloak.
Jasper looked around. Chelsea, Alec and Aro were talking while Felix sulked in the corner. The other three guards were sitting towards the back not moving. "I guess I'm lucky," he replied in his Southern drawl. "I'm surrounded by friends." There was no way Jane would help him. She was angry at Bella and Evie for drawing attention to themselves. Of course that wasn't the case. Aro couldn't let them go. He was completely drawn to them.
Jane gave him a look but didn't say a word. There were too many ears and Felix kept glancing in their direction. Her poor brother Alec was oblivious to the danger they were headed to. She smiled when Aro looked her way. It wouldn't be long before she was forced to make a decision.
"Chelsea, Alec and my dear Jane will accompany me," Aro instructed. "Along with them, it will be good test for my young guards." He leaned back against the seat. "Jasper, my dear friend, I need you and Felix to secure the plane. We will leave immediately when we return." He smiled as he placed his hands on the armrest.
"Of course Master," Felix answered. He smirked and leaned back in his seat.
Jasper looked at Felix for a moment before smiling at Aro. He gave the older vampire a slight nod. He could sense the anticipation radiating off Aro and Felix.
"Everyone knows their assignments," Aro stated as the plane began to descend. "No harm is to come to our precious cargo. They are to be treated with the upmost respect." He clapped his hands and smiled. "Our second level guards are in position. They will handle our little obstacles. Once they are dealt with we will take what is mine." He had no doubt Bella and Evie would be joining them soon along with Bella's offspring.
Jasper kept the small smile on his face. There wasn't time to waste. He would have to dispose of Felix and the pilots once Aro left with his small entourage. He quickly sized the arrogant idiot. He was bigger than Emmett but not as calculating with his fighting moves. He knew exactly what must be done. The area was equipped for their arrival but then again that was the reason for the surprise attack.
The private field was familiar. They were just outside of town. He followed Jane as they exited the plane. The human pilots stayed on board not bothering to leave the cockpit. The black Suburban was facing away from the plane. He didn't know who was driving but they were human. The scent of a human still lingered in the air. He needed to bide his time before making his move.
"We must move fast before we are discovered," Chelsea stated as she headed to the SUV. She feared they would be leaving without Aro's prizes and a few less guards. She quickly spoke to the driver.
Alec followed Jane without saying a word. He knew there would be losses but of course the Volturi never lost a battle. Today would be no different. It would be odd to travel around in a vehicle but they still needed to keep out of sight from the humans. He motioned for the younger guards to get in.
Aro glanced at Felix with a knowing look. Soon they would be rid of their spy and victory would be his. His was thankful his brothers Caius and Marcus didn't join him. They didn't see the big picture of acquiring such rare specimens. The unborn would provide critical information on obtaining private watch dogs, so to speak. He quickly got in the SUV and nodded at the driver. The possibilities were endless.
Jasper watched them leave. The look Aro gave Felix didn't go unnoticed. It was just a matter of time before Aro figured it out. There was only so long he could go on pretending. He smirked as Felix walked around the plane. The guy was big but his fighting skills were predictable. He moved to the back of the plane.
"You should know," Felix smiled. "I am going to enjoy destroying you." He moved forward reaching for Jasper but he was left grasping air.
"Did you honestly think I would let you kill me without a fight?" Jasper was standing a few feet to the right of Felix. His shook his head as he softly laughed. He moved back when Felix tried to attack. He held up his hand. "You really are predictable."
Felix growled as he moved to strike Jasper. The sound of their bodies colliding sent a thunderous noise throughout the small area. They moved fast each trying to get a shot in. The blur of their movements lasted for a few minutes. Just as they moved away from the plane, Felix was able to wrap his hands around Jasper's throat. He lifted him off the ground.
Jasper pulled Felix's thumb back giving him enough room to pull Felix's hand away. He moved quickly behind Felix and kicked his right knee forcing the Guard to fall to the ground. He wrapped his legs around Felix's waist and began to pull and twist his head. There wasn't time to waste.
Felix tried to move Jasper's hands but his grip was iron tight. His continued to try and break the hold but he felt almost numb. He reached behind and grabbed Jasper's head. He pulled until he felt Jasper release his hold and threw him towards the tree line. He shook his head to clear it. There was no way he was going to let a traitor get the upper hand.
Jasper skidded to a stop and charged forward. He used his gift to send calming feelings toward Felix. When he noticed Felix slowing down he threw a punch straight into the overbearing guard's chest. The force of the punch sent Felix flying backwards. Jasper landed on top of Felix driving his knee straight into the guard's chest. The power of the hit sent Felix's to move forward and Jasper used all his strength as he hit Felix in the jaw.
He wrapped his arm around Felix's neck and he rolled him over. With each turn and pull he applied pressure in a downward motion causing the Guards neck to crack. As he shoved his knee between Felix's shoulder blades he pulled back.
Felix tried to reach for Jasper's arm but his hands dropped like a rock from the sky. He felt numb again. It reminded him of when Alec used his gift on him during their training sessions. The sound of his neck being torn from his body filled the small area. There was no pain as he watched the trees move around him. He barely registered the movement of his head or the blackness that took over.
Jasper tossed the head a few feet away and reached into his pocket for the lighter. As soon as the flame made contact with the head it quickly ignited. He swiftly dismembered Felix's body and tossed the pieces into the fire. He boarded the plane and headed to the cockpit. The pilots were on the ground with their hands over their head.
"Phone," Jasper snapped. One of the pilot's tossed him a phone. "Carlisle, Aro's here," he stated. "He's here for the girls. It's happening."
"Bella, you are in excellent health," Dr. Mary Griffin said as she washed her hands. "The babies are developing exceptionally well." She dried her hands as she turned to face the young couple. "Are there any questions either of you have for me?" She gave them both a big smile.
Jacob continued to stare at the sonogram pictures. He had a goofy smile on his face. The babies were beautiful, while at least from what he could see. They were absolutely beautiful just like their mother. With everything going on the twins were the bright light in their lives.
Bella wiped a tear away as she watched Jacob. "I have so many questions," she said turning to look at the doctor. She gave a nervous laugh. "Is it normal to be as big as a house?" she asked rubbing her stomach.
Dr. Griffin laughed. "Your pregnancy is going along perfectly," she replied. "Being six months along without any complications is exactly what we want from our expectant mothers who are carrying twins." She rubbed Bella's arm. "You have nothing to worry about."
"I told you," Jacob said before kissing Bella's cheek. "You're perfect." He helped her down from the examining table. She was felt light as a feather to him.
"Easy for you to say," Bella frowned. "You haven't gained a million pounds." She playfully hit his stomach.
"I will see you both in a few weeks," Dr. Griffin laughed as she opened the door. "If you have any concerns don't hesitate to call." She gave the nurse the chart before going to her office.
Bella held onto Jacob as they walked out of the clinic next to the hospital. She placed her hand over her stomach and smiled. Gaining weight and feeling like a beach whale didn't bother her in the least. She was completely happy carrying the babies. Her only concern was Aro. They hadn't heard a word from Jasper in months regarding Aro. Everything seemed normal or at least normal for them. But she refused to let even the thought of Aro ruin her day.
"How are you really feeling honey?" Jacob asked as he gently rubbed her back. The parking lot was full but he could see Bella's truck parked a few feet away.
"Happy," she answered. "Our babies are healthy. Everyone we love is safe." She gave his arm a squeeze.
"True," he acknowledged. "It's been pretty peaceful." He looked towards the tree line knowing Embry and Paul were watching them. "But we are still on alert." He motioned for them to head out as he opened the door for Bella.
"I know," she said with a hint of sadness. "We deserve to enjoy all the happy moments though. I want to tell our babies how anxious and excited we were during the pregnancy. Their arrival will be met with family, friends and lots of love." She buckled herself in as Jacob closed the door.
He quickly got in the truck and nodded as the engine roared to life. "Our kids will hear exactly that," he said reaching for her hand. "That damn leech isn't going to take any of those moments from us. He won't win." He kissed the back of her hand.
She pulled out the sonogram pictures. "Did you tell Billy the names we picked out?" she traced the outline of her daughters face.
"I did," he answered looking straight ahead. A small lump in his throat had him swallowing to push it down.
She sensed the emotions running through him. It was simple when it came to naming their daughter. Sarah Rachel Black was the perfect name. Even though Rachel's life towards the end wasn't pleasant, Bella still remembered the young girl who loved to laugh. The happy memories Jacob and Billy had of Rachel were the ones her daughter would know. It was never up for discussion when it came to naming their daughter after the woman who loved her family more than anything.
"He was speechless," Jacob said. "Especially after I told him our son's name, William Charlie Black, the old man almost dropped his beer." He laughed. "How did Charlie take the news?"
"He loved the fact we are naming our daughter after your mother and sister," Bella replied. She slightly laughed remembering how he looked when she finally revealed her son's name. "But he wasn't quite as happy with being the middle name for our son. There was a compromise." She looked at Jacob's strong profile.
"What was the compromise?" he asked focusing on the road ahead. He could feel Bella's eyes on him.
"He refuses to call our son Billy or Bill," she began. "Instead he wants to call his grandson Will. Which is a lot better than Willy, I put my foot down on that nickname." She smiled when Jacob nodded in agreement.
"I like Will," he stated. "It's strong and bold. Our son will be both." He gave her hand a squeeze. He pulled the truck into the driveway of her house. "I know you're craving a chocolate shake and Evie made sure to get a couple for you." He laughed when she eagerly nodded. Evie's car was already parked. He knew Embry and Paul were close by but would check in with Sam and Jared before heading inside. He frowned when he noticed Emmett's Jeep. Rosalie was determined to throw Bella a fancy baby shower.
"Be nice," Bella warned. "Rose means well. You know for a fact she will defend our babies with her last breath." She gave him a look when he snorted. "Jacob Ephraim Black, you know what I mean." She quickly opened her door to get out. Her emotions were running high. The pregnancy hormones made it impossible to control her emotions at times.
Jacob sighed in frustration and got out the truck. He helped Bella out and pulled her into a tight hug. "Sorry Bells," he whispered. "I know your right. Rosalie has proven how much she cares for the twins and wants to keep them safe." He rubbed her back as he felt the tension leave her body. "You know the treaty is null and void at the moment. The Cullen's have proven they are trustworthy. As Protectors we still need to keep our guard up where the Tribe is concerned." They couldn't afford a single lapse in judgment.
"I know it's a lot for the Pack to deal with especially the younger ones but it seems to be working. I just wish we could meet at home," Bella said with a sigh. They only came to the house in Forks to keep her scent fresh in case Aro or his guards showed up. The cameras Emmett and Rosalie installed had a motion sensor which picked up any movement. It caught Emmett every time he tried to sneak in.
They walked up the driveway holding hands. Jacob could hear Evie and Rosalie's voices. He quietly opened the door and tried not to laugh. Rosalie made it her mission to get past Evie's shield but it wasn't working out for her. After last nights practice session it was obvious Evie and Bella's shield was growing stronger. They were all having a hard time getting passed their shields.
"Come on Rose, don't be mad," Emmett cooed as he rubbed her back. "Evie's shield is just a bit stronger than any of us. Besides how else is she going to protect herself?" He winked at Evie as she tried to hide a smile.
"I could've done without the numbing effect," Rosalie stated with a playful glare in Evie's direction. "It wasn't as if I was going to actually attack her." She continued to glare at the younger girl who was obviously amused.
"It didn't help that you practically jumped her as soon as we arrived at your house," Leah pointed out laughing. The look on Rosalie's face was priceless.
"If I was human the fall would have broken my arm," Rosalie protested despite the small smile on her lips.
"Next time I'll try fire," Evie smirked. She honestly won't do it but the look of pure venom on Rosalie's face was worth the threat.
"Seems everyone is having a good time without us," Jacob commented as Bella took a seat. He looked around the living room at the smiling faces.
Evie left the living room to grab Bella's shake. She bumped shoulders with Rosalie. It wasn't a hard bump considering the vampire was solid as concrete.
"Oh trust me, it was quite entertaining," Leah announced with a laugh. "Valisa and Esme weren't happy with the Ice Queen." She raised her hands and shook her head when Rosalie gave her a look.
"I was on my best behavior unlike a certain who child decided to act like a brat," Rosalie stated as Evie walked into the room.
"This child kicked your ass with an amazing shield," Evie replied handing Bella a chocolate shake.
"Where does the shield come in?" Bella asked before taking a sip of her shake. She moaned in satisfaction. "This tastes so good." She licked her lips before taking another sip.
"You know how fast a vampire moves," Evie answered. "She tried to get around my shield. I got scared and protected myself." She stuck her tongue out at Rosalie.
"Why were you scared?" Jacob asked. He was eyeing Bella's shake.
"Vampire girl let out a battle cry so loud," Leah was laughing and holding her side. "The poor animals were bumping into each other trying to get away."
"Then why did you use that numbing thing?" Jacob asked looking at Evie. "Which I hate by the way and I'm opting out of being a test dummy again." He sat next to Bella and took a sip of her shake.
"But that doesn't explain why Valisa and Esme were upset with Rosalie," Bella questioned.
Emmett laughed. "My beautiful Rose has a habit of talking like a sailor when she's pissed off," he stated. "Esme and Valisa asked Evie to find a way to make the shield soundproof." He continued to laugh despite the death glare Rosalie was shooting at him.
Evie threw her hands in the air. "Okay maybe I went overboard," she laughed. "But in my defense, I am a little human girl surround by supernatural beings. I never would have cut off your senses but you have a mouth to rival Paul." She sat next to Leah. "Speaking of Paul, where is he? I thought he and Embry were following you guys here?" She bushed Emmett's hand away from her cheek. He got into a bad habit of pinching her cheeks.
"They should be here in a few," Jacob replied. "They are checking in with Sam and Jared before running a quick perimeter around the house." He kissed Bella's forehead as she finished the last of her milkshake.
"Okay, I know you guys are working on the baby shower," Bella smirked. "Please tell me it's nothing over the top?" She was looking at Rosalie.
"I told you so," Evie said in a sing song voice. She noticed the tight grip Emmett had on Rosalie's arm. "Quit being so sensitive, you know for a fact Bella was never going along with a huge over the top shower. Besides, we have to think of the tribe. They will want to celebrate the new addition of a future Chief." She gave Rosalie's hand a squeeze. The cold didn't bother her as it once did. Her shield automatically adjusted the temperature but only when she was in close proximity of the Cullen's.
"Will it be a celebration?" Rosalie asked concerned. The thought of anything happening to the babies or any of them still landed squarely on their shoulders. Edward and Alice were still wreaking havoc after their deaths.
Bella sighed as she moved closer to Jacob. "As hard as everyone is trying to ignore the inevitable," she shook her head. "We can't. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought about it either. Whatever normal is," she pointed to everyone in the room, "doesn't apply to us. These past few months have been great but no matter what we do, the other shoe is going to drop." She placed her hand over Jacob's which was resting on her stomach.
"But when the shoe does drop, you will be able to defend yourself," Jacob said. He knew Bella could defend herself with her shield. But it didn't stop the nagging feeling in the back of his mind that something could go wrong.
"Little human my ass," Rosalie smirked as she playfully hit Evie's leg. "You're the scary one." She laughed and leaned closer to Emmett.
Jacob's phone began to ring. He pulled it out of his pocket and became slightly worried as Carlisle's name flashed across the screen. "Hello," he said keeping his arm around Bella.
Leah and Evie jumped up when they heard the howl of a wolf. "Embry," they both cried. They looked at each for a moment before pushing the fear in their eyes back. There wasn't time to think the worst. This was what they have all been training for all these months. They had to be ready.
"They're here," Carlisle stated. "I'm heading to La Push." He quickly maneuvered through the mid-day traffic. He hung up and called Esme.
"Leah, stay with the girls," Jacob ordered as he quickly got up. He kissed Bella hard. "Stick to the plan." He stared into hers as she nodded. "Let's go Emmett." He ran towards the back door.
"Rose," Emmett muttered before kissing her. He followed after Jacob.
"We move in fifteen," Evie called out looking at her phone.
"Are you sure?" Leah asked looking at her watch. "Quil's not here."
Evie grabbed Bella's hand as they threw their shield around the house. "I'm positive," she answered.
Rosalie stood facing the front door as Leah took her position guarding the back.
Sam shook his head as he listened to Paul grumble about not spending time with his imprint. He felt the same way. But it was worth it knowing his beloved Emily was safe. Jared felt the same way. Kim and Emily spent time together when they were out on patrol like today.
"I never thought I see the day when big bad Paul Lahote was pussy whipped," Jared teased. He chuckled when Paul growled.
"How are things around La Push?" Embry asked. He watched as Bella's truck continued down the road. They had to stick to the tree line to avoid detection.
"Everything is quiet. Elijah and Edgar had a quiet night as well," Sam answered. He moved along the tree line by the cliffs.
"Quil is still at your house Embry," Jared said as he looped around the back side of Jacob's house. "Valisa and Sue got back an hour ago. He said everything was fine at the Cullen's. Personally it feels a bit too quiet if you know what I mean." He continued his patrol but moved a few hundred feet out to expand his perimeter.
"We'll run a quick check around Bella's house and then head in," Paul stated as the Swan house came into view.
"What the fuck?" Jared hissed. He quickly picked up on a sickly sweet scent. He slowed down and moved a few feet up the path. The slight breeze would cover his scent.
Before Sam could say anything, he picked up a scent coming from the edge of the cliff. He looked over the edge and could see a boat a few hundred yards out anchored to a buoy. He slowly moved through the underbrush as he picked up the sweet sickly scent of a leech. He let his Brothers see the sight before him. There were two leeches climbing a tree. They were quickly at the top overlooking La Push.
"We're heading towards you," Embry called out. "Paul, break to the left and head towards Jared. I'll help Sam." He watched Paul speed off towards Jared.
Paul speed off through the trees and moved along the path Seth made while patrolling around Gina's house. He thought about grabbing the young pup but thought better of it. The kid needed to stay where he was and protect his imprint. He dug his paws deep into the ground as he caught sight of the road leading to La Push.
Embry debated on whether to cut across the open road or take the long way to the cliffs. When an image of a leech climbing down the tree, he knew what to do. He quickly crossed the road and headed towards the cliffs. The cold weather kept most people away from the beach and the dark clouds weren't inviting either.
"Shit," Paul shouted. "There are two more by the riverbed." He hid behind the trees and stayed down wind. "These two don't look like any nomads I've seen before." He crouched low to the ground as he moved forward.
"Stay where you are," Sam ordered. He knew from the view point Paul had, he was trying to get closer.
"Paul stay back bro," Jared shouted as he ran after the leech. "The vamp I was tracking spotted me and is heading your way." He pushed harder against the ground to quicken his pace. Just as the vamp made a move to climb up one of the trees, Jared bit down on his leg pulling him down. In one swift move he ripped the bloodsuckers head clear off before he could make a sound.
Paul quickly moved back and headed towards Jared as quickly as he could. He knew the vamps didn't sense him. They were busy whispering which seemed odd. There was no way they could know about them. When he cleared the trees on the left he could see Jared burning body parts as he tossed them into the middle of the fire. He stood guard until Jared phased back. The other bloodsuckers would notice the fire and probably investigate. It would leave two vamps for Sam and Embry to deal with unless there were more.
"They found the cameras," Sam said as he watched a blonde vamp smash one of the cameras. "I wonder if Beth is monitoring them at the moment." He hoped she was. There was no telling how many more were out there.
"We have two red heads by the river," Paul stated as they moved through the underbrush. "They are still here and they are whispering." He motioned for Jared to move towards the right.
"Why the hell are they whispering?" Embry asked as he reached Sam. "Wait a minute…so were the ones by the cliffs. It doesn't make sense for them to whisper…unless…." He moved back and allowed Sam to head back to the cliffs.
"You think there are more of them?" Jared asked as he crouched low to the ground.
"It's a fucking ambush," Paul growled. Two more vampires immersed from the water and slowly marched over to where he and Jared were hiding. Evie's vision played out for him and the Pack. "It's happening." He silently prayed Evie was safe.
Embry growled as he let out a howl as three leeches jumped out of the trees. He thought about his family. Leah. He knew she was with Evie. He prayed they would follow the plan and stay safe. He quickly moved back to join up with Sam. The only thought running through his mind was keeping his sister safe. These damn parasites weren't giving up.
Sam didn't waste a moment as he lunged forward as a leech tried to grab Embry's back legs. He clamped his razor sharp teeth on the shoulder of a dark haired leech. Natural instinct took over every fiber of his being. His wolf seemed to know something that he didn't.
The sound of their Brothers questions filled Jared, Paul, Sam and Embry's heads as the remaining Pack phased in one by one. Sam, Embry, Jared and Paul were overwhelmed for a split second before they cleared their heads and showed everyone what was happening. They also heard Carlisle's warning to Jacob as he ran through the trees outside of Bella's house.
Jacob ordered everyone to concentrate as he fired off instructions for Edgar, Brady and Elijah to join Jared and Paul. He told Collin and Gavin to remain back at La Push along with Michael and Drew. He knew Esme was with all the parents at Embry's house. She and Carlisle would protect the parents. He and Emmett raced towards Sam and Embry.
"Why can't you ever stick to the plan?" Leah questioned as she followed Rosalie and Bella. She glared at Seth. "You were supposed to stay in La Push." She was angry her little brother didn't follow the plan, as usual.
"Are you okay?" Rosalie asked as she did her best not to jostle Bella as she carried her. She moved into the small clearing.
"The plan changed this morning," Seth answered. "And before you ask Gina is at Nana's along with all the other imprints." He stayed back in the tree line to phase. He needed to know what was happening with his Brothers.
"I would have told you but I wasn't sure if was a false alarm," Evie stated as Quil placed her on the ground. She walked over to Leah and held her hand. "The timing kept changing but after last night Jacob and I decided not to take any chances. You know I would never put Seth in danger." She gave Leah's hand a squeeze. "We've all trained for this moment."
"I'll be back," Quil called out before taking off. He knew Beth would be safe on the Reservation. The Pack and Cullen's would protect her and the others.
"I know," Leah sighed. "But the last time these leeches attacked…" she glanced in Rosalie's direction when the blonde hissed. "You know what I mean." Rosalie stared at her for a moment before nodding.
"We all know what happen the last time we were attacked," Evie replied. She wrapped her arms around her waist. She still blamed herself for Embry being hurt. Her shield shot out with a loud popping sound. She felt Bella's shield merge with hers.
They learned if one Pack member was under the shield they were still able to communicate. With Bella and Jacob's strong connection the shield surrounded him but they weren't quite sure of the distance. It was one of the reasons to be in the clearing between La Push and Forks. If the Pack was in the surrounding area of La Push or Forks, Belle or Evie were able to shield the Alpha which provided coverage for all the members of the Pack. But they had to time it perfectly with the Pack fighting the vamps.
"Are you sure they will end up here?" Rosalie asked looking around. It seemed odd they would come to the exact location they fought the newborns.
"Yes," Bella answered. "They will check the house in Forks first and try to make their way to La Push," she threw a small rock at Evie and smiled when the air around her began to warm up. "But they won't be able to get pass the shield. It will divert them here."
"Where the Pack will be waiting for them," Evie finished. She checked her phone. "The guys should be here in ten minutes." She looked towards the trees waiting for Quil or Seth to confirm her answer.
"There's something you're not telling us," Leah stated as she stepped closer to Evie.
Bella glanced at Evie. There was no way to tell Rosalie or Leah the vision Evie had or the things Evie had to do. It would look as if Evie was keeping everyone in the dark. Technically she was but it was in everyone's best interest. Paul and Jacob were they only ones from the Pack who knew besides herself. Not even Embry knew which was eating away at her cousin.
"I need you to follow the plan," Evie finally said. She looked away not wanting to see the hurt look in Leah's eyes. She let a slow breath before looking at Leah. "It's not something I can explain right now but I promise it's for everyone's protection." If everything went according to plan, they wouldn't have to deal with the Volturi ever again.
Leah looked at Bella who was nodding at her to understand. Rosalie shrugged before nodding. "Fine," she snapped.
Seth ran into the clearing. "The Pack is on their way," he said. "The guys have a few bumps and scraps but nothing life threating." He gave Leah's hand a squeeze.
"Oh, no," Evie shook her head. She fell to her knees.
Seth dropped next to Evie and held her shoulders when she began to shake. "What is it?" he asked looking into her eyes. They were glazed over.
"She's having a vision," Bella stated moving next to Leah.
"Crap," Evie muttered. "Aro is heading towards Bella's house but something is wrong. They aren't stopping." She blinked a few times. "They are headed straight here." She looked at her watch. The timing was off but she didn't know by how much. "They will approach just beyond that boulder." She held on to Seth as he helped her up.
"They must have picked up Bella's scent," Rosalie said looking at Bella. "I'm sorry. I thought my scent would mask yours." She turned when she heard a branch snap.
"It wouldn't have made a difference Rose," Bella replied. She placed her free hand on her stomach. "They would have found us no matter what." She gave her a small smile. "It was one of the reasons I refused to hide. It would have meant dividing the Pack and they are stronger together."
"But we were supposed to have more time," Rosaline replied. She stood close to Bella.
Quil walked out from behind the trees. "Jacob, Embry and Paul stayed back to burn the last of the leeches. The rest of the Pack will be here shortly," he moved back through the trees.
Bella looked at Evie and nodded. The shield hummed as it began to seep into the ground. There were slight tremors but they quickly stopped. They weren't taking anything for granted. After watching a scary movie about zombies coming out of the ground and Emmett telling them stories of vampires attacking the same way, Evie convinced Bella they should have their shield protect them from underground attacks.
Evie felt the hair on the back of her neck stand up. She knew Aro was close by. The shield hummed as it began to seep into the ground. She reached for Bella's hand as they stared ahead. They wouldn't be able to see Aro and his guards as they approached like Rosalie, Leah or Seth but their shield would pick up their presence.
"Jacob and the Pack are protected," Bella stated as she felt Jacob's presence under the shield. "Evie," she whispered.
"I know," Evie replied ignoring the looks from Leah and Rosalie. "Pull in the shield from the front. He is sending Jane and Alex out. I feel the bitch's power poking at the shield." She gritted her teeth to hold back from striking back.
"Alec's power finally hit the shield," Bella replied. She moved the shield back and took a deep calm breath.
"The Pack is waiting beyond the tree line," Leah called out when she noticed movement. She stood close to Bella.
"Aro thinks Jane's power is pushing the shield," Bella stated. She could pick up a few of Aro's thoughts. "He's also wondering why he can't hear us." She looked at Evie.
"They'll appear right there," Evie said pointing to the left. She wished Paul was next to her. He was protected under the shield but it didn't ease her mind. She sensed his frustration of not being with her.
The closeness of the Volturi Guards had the air within the shield crackling from anger and frustration. Everyone was tense as the Volturi stepped out from behind the thick line of trees. The vengeful looks from the guards were quickly dismissed as Aro moved forward.
Bella pulled the shield back as Evie allowed the Guards and Aro to hear them. The look of surprise and joy on Aro's face didn't go unnoticed. The scared girl who first met him all those months ago was gone. She didn't look away when he smiled in her direction. Her defense was up as she placed her hand over stomach.
"Isabella and Evie," Aro said with a slight laugh in his tone. "It's so good to see you both. We have much to discuss." He motioned to his guards. "In private of course." He smiled as the guards moved forward with Jane in Alec in front.
Thank you for the reviews. I hope you are enjoying the story. Thanks for following the story and marking it as one of your favorites.
Thanks,
india8
