AN: I couldn't leave you guys hanging. I'm a little unsure of when I will have time to update, but you can add me on Facebook (kridafanfic) if you would like to see some teasers and get to know me a little.
Again, your reviews, follows and favorites blow me away! Thank you! They are such an inspiration!
Finally, happy birthday to my awesome Beta, Coppertop!
A Bond
Deciding that the situation in the area is precarious and easily takes precedence over everything else, even my health, I close my eyes and reach out to connect with the Earth again. I can hear how both Seraphina and Aro cry out in objection, trying desperately to get my attention and pull me back, but I simply can't allow myself to heed their request. This area needs my help or it will die a slow and agonizing death. Taking a moment, I study my surroundings and try to get an overview of how large the affected area actually is. Dread grows in my stomach when I realize how complicated this is going to be. The trees need more space, but if I move just a few of them it will compromise several others. There isn't an easy fix for this situation. I can feel dread and helplessness build in my stomach. I've tried to analyze every possible outcome from several different angles and scenarios, but I just can't find the solution.
Frustrated and desperate I reach out and ask the Earth for guidance.
What can I do?
Everything is blissfully silent and I allow myself to take a moment and give thanks. I can't help but think of how privileged I am to be surrounded by the presence of this gorgeous and wise piece of land. It is truly an honor to be allowed to connect with it so deeply and I can feel how happy I've made it by helping. Tears burn in my eyes when the Earth soon reveals its plan. Several trees reach out and I can feel them, almost as if they are a part of me. The wind dances through their leaves, the insects crawling within their bark and the animals that blissfully live in their branches. After a closer inspection I can sense that they are in poor condition, but they have already lived long and prosperous lives.
The tears welling up in my eyes begin to fall when they reveal to me that they are prepared to sacrifice themselves so that the roots of others will have enough space to grow. The entire forest sings their farewell as they thank each tree for their great sacrifice. Their song is so beautiful and poignant, that I can physically feel the deep sorrow of the entire forest as it mourns each loss. My tears are pouring down my cheeks now as I sob and the Earth wraps itself around me, comforting me.
This is the only way.
After having analyzed every option, I know it's the truth and although it breaks my heart, I know it's for the best. Later I will need to get help out here to physically remove these fallen trees and give them purpose through a new life, but for the time being it is the space deep within the Earth that is a problem. The roots need more space and the great sacrifice of their peers will give them what they need. I check the area and quickly memorize those places where the remaining trees will have to be moved. Sending out a final thanks, I lock my knees and clench my hands tightly into fists, trying to prepare myself for what needs to be done. I already know that this is a huge job that will take everything I have in me and more.
When the Earth gives its signal, I open my hands wide and give the command. All around me I can feel the harsh thuds of trees falling. This is a remote area and I've already checked that each tree has a safe place to land, but the sound of them falling is terrifying and loud, but the thing that truly breaks my heart and causes me pain, is that I can feel their life essence disappearing. I force myself to continue, feeling how quickly my energy is draining. My wolf whimpers and howls in pain from inside me, but I can't stop. I have to end their suffering. I have to finish this. The Earth needs me. She needs this done so that others can prosper and live full lives, free of pain and suffering.
As soon as space is freed up from within the Earth, I begin to move each tree that needs to be moved. It's like a giant puzzle, with an infinite amount of pieces, but I can't lose focus. The rest of the trees are depending on me. So many have already given their lives for this cause, and I need to be strong enough to finish. I can still feel the tears flowing from my eyes and as I open my mouth to scream, the rusty taste of blood hits my tongue and I realize that I'm bleeding from my nose. I can feel the energy is leaving my limbs and I cannot fathom how I'm still standing, but I am.
Just a little more! I shout out. Come on, come on!
All of a sudden, it's as if everything simply locks into place. Each piece of the puzzle has found its rightful spot, but I can't enjoy my success. I am thrown back into my weakening body like a slap in the face. I recognize the agonizing pain for just a moment before I blissfully black out.
I drift between unconsciousness and consciousness for a while, not really sure of what is real and what isn't. My body is in a lot of pain, but it's as if I've lost the ability to react to it. I feel numb and paralyzed, unable to move even a finger.
I feel myself being lifted and safely cocooned between two warm bodies. The upright position makes me feel nauseous and I'm suddenly worried that I'll throw up, but still my body is unable to react. Then I feel the cool air on my face and I think we must be moving somewhere. The air feels good against my skin and calms the nausea.
Slowly but surely the sounds around me become clearer and I can hear the rumble of two motorcycles racing through the forest at full speed. I can feel the vibrations between my thighs and quickly realize that I'm seated on one of those said motorcycles. For a moment I panic, wondering how I'm holding on, but then I recognize that I'm safely strapped in between two strong bodies. A male at my front and a female at my back. It doesn't take me long to recognize them as Seraphina and Aro. The motorcycles suddenly skids to a sudden stop and I hear Aro's unmistakable and deep voice swear loudly.
"What the fuck is he doing here?!"
He revs his engine and then continues at, what seems to be, a frantic pace. When he stops the motorcycle again, I am pushed back heavily against Seraphina as Aro almost jumps off the bike and disappears. All at once, I hear several voices arguing. They are blurring together, but I think I recognize both Jane and Alec. Suddenly, my wolf regains consciousness and barks out a pitiful howl. As if he's reacting to the sound, a large shadow appears directly in front of me and the helmet on my head is quickly drawn off.
"Jesus, Bella!"
My eyes are still struggling to open, but I instantly recognize the voice. Edward. I'm quickly dragged into his arms and instantly I feel a surge of energy rush through me and all of my pain begins to diminish at a rapid pace. A loud gasp falls from my lips and my eyes shoot open to meet his. His beautiful green eyes are tremulous, filled with worry and concern. He studies me carefully for a moment before running his nose down my own and kissing me gently on both cheeks.
"Let's get you home," he says softly.
I simply nod and lean my head heavily against his shoulder. I'm so tired. Both my wolf and I release a sigh of complete contentment, knowing that we are finally where we are meant to be. I close my eyes for a moment, but open them when I hear Aro's sharp gasp, followed by a shocked voice.
"I didn't realize she had already mated."
I can feel the muscles in Edward's body tense as he pauses in reaction to Aro's statement.
"She isn't 21 yet," he answers simply.
I look over to Aro and see that his expression is one of disbelief. His eyes meet mine and his features quickly change to one filled with sadness and regret. It's as if he is begging for forgiveness.
"Darling, Bella, I am so sorry. It was never meant to go so far."
I'm unable to respond because I am distracted by a loud and rumbling growl coming from Edward's lips and chest. My attention is drawn to him and I can see a deadly look appear in his eyes as his wolf's presence flashes in them. Needing to calm him down, I reach one hand up and gently caress Edward's chest and his growls immediately die down.
"Goodbye, Uncle," I say in a whisper, my voice still weak with everything that has happened.
I see Seraphina's worried hazel eyes follow me as she stands with her arms protectively around both Jane and Alec. Benjamin and a tired-looking Riley is also watching us, almost as if they are both ready to fight if need be. Edward keeps a watchful eye on them all the way to his very fancy and powerful pick-up truck. He gently places me in the front seat, slamming the door as he moves to share a few words with Aro. I know I should pay attention to what is going on, but suddenly I'm overwhelmed by how tired I feel and I can't keep my eyes open. When Edward finally finds his seat, I wake up slightly when I feel him drag me to his side. His truck as three seats in the front and apparently he is just as desperate for physical contact as I am. I lean against his right shoulder and when he's backed out of the driveway and set his truck into drive, he wraps his arm around me and I am able to rest my head against his hard chest while my body curls against his side. I close my eyes and drift off to sleep with a soft smile on my lips.
I feel the truck come to a complete stop, but I don't open my eyes until I feel Edward gently lift me out of the front seat and into his strong arms. I see that we are at my cottage and realize that I'm feeling much better already after my short nap.
"You can put me down, you know," I say, my voice soft with sleep. Edward huffs as if what I've just said is complete idiocy and shifts me slightly, grabbing something from the front seat.
"Yeah, that's not going to happen," he responds roughly and places the bag I had left in my truck in my lap. He must have grabbed it before leaving Aro's house.
Then Edward continues to carry me towards the front door. Realizing that he has no intention of setting me down, I quickly find my keys and relax in his strong hold. It takes us a few tries, but soon we are finally able to open the door without him having to set me down. Finally inside, I think he will relent, but he doesn't. When he steps towards the bedroom, I argue pushing slightly against him. He shoots me a look of warning and I can feel his muscles tighten as if he is getting ready to argue.
"I need something to drink, Edward. I'll be OK. You can let me down."
His jaw clenches and I can see that he is debating what he should do. I reach up and lightly cup his chin, drawing my thumb across his strong cheekbones. I can feel the prickly skin beneath my fingers. He hasn't had time to shave yet, but the unkempt look makes him appear ruggedly handsome. My heart flutters as I regard him and I am forced to take a calming breath, before continuing.
"I'll be fine, Edward. You can put me down," I repeat as soothingly as I can. His long eyelashes are revealed when he closes his eyes and nuzzles against my hand, clearly enjoying my touch.
Ever so slowly, Edward lowers my feet to the ground. He keeps a tight hold on me and I continue to rub my thumb against his cheek and jaw until I feel he is ready to release me. His eyebrows are tightly furrowed, almost as if he is trying to figure out a complex math equation. His hands tighten at my waist and his mouth turns grim.
"I was so worried about you," he reveals in a soft whisper.
A rush of heat flows through me and I'm shocked by how incredibly happy this makes me. I realize that this is what I want. I want this closeness, this companionship. I want him.
"I'm OK. I swear."
We both hold on to each other for a few long seconds, before we both release our hold after an agreeing nod. Edward stays close and I'm glad because it takes me a moment to regain my balance. With his help, I'm able to make my way to the kitchen and pour a large glass of orange juice for myself. Just as I'm about to take a sip, he lightly touches my hand to turn me towards him. He wets a kitchen towel in the sink and very carefully wipes the skin beneath my nose. When he pulls the towel back, I can see remnants of blood from my nosebleed. I can see how tightly he is clenching his teeth, but he doesn't say anything. When he is finished, he moves back, but I notice that he continues to stay close to me.
He doesn't want anything to drink when I ask him, but I desperately need the sugar. My energy is slowly returning, but I still feel drained. The juice helps. I have a few cookies left and when I pull these out, Edward quickly snatches three up with a knowing smirk on his lips.
"These are amazing," he says with his mouth full.
I wonder if he remembers that his wolf has had several of these and I can't help but smile. I grab a cookie of my own and nibble on it, taking my time to make sure that my stomach isn't rolling after the first taste.
Edward distracts me when he sighs deeply, as if he's about to do something he really doesn't want to do, and then he pulls out his cellphone.
"What are you doing?" I ask while taking a larger bite of my cookie, curious as to what has him this bothered.
"Sending Alice a message that we won't be able to make it this evening," he answers shortly.
Before the words finish leaving his mouth, I've quickly grabbed his phone, immediately erasing the message he's written. Luckily, I've caught him in time and his very short message has yet to be sent. When I look up, a hot blush spreads across my cheeks at his raised eyebrow and questioning glance. I'm even a little surprised by my forward actions and take a moment to calm down as I gently place his phone on the kitchen counter. Turning back to him, I force myself to meet his gaze head on.
"Edward, I'm already feeling much better. We still have a few hours and you know as well as I do that Alice would never accept that message without any further explanation," I explain calmly.
I can see how his jaw clenches and that he wants to argue with me.
"Bella, I don't care about my sister right now. You might be feeling better, but you sure as hell weren't feeling very well just a short while ago."
His voice is hard and brokers no argument, but I simply can't help myself.
"I know it must have shocked you when you saw me on that motorcycle, but I swear I'm fi-."
"Don't say you're fine," he interrupts, his voice hard as steel. I can feel the tension growing between us.
I bite my lip, but after just a short pause I simply can't stop myself from speaking my mind.
"Edward-."
I'm caught completely off guard as Edward pulls me hard against him and silences me with a kiss. His soft lips are hard and demanding against my own and it doesn't take him long to introduce his tongue to mine and lead it in a soft and sensual dance. One of his strong hands are buried in the hair at the back of my neck, while the other is cupping my cheek lovingly, keeping my mouth joined with his. As if I'd ever have the strength to pull away from him. I'm immediately lost in a whirlwind of delicious pleasure, where all I want is more.
Just as the shock of his kiss is dawning on me, his lips leave mine and I softly whimper my disagreement. His fingers tighten in my hair and he keeps his lips just a breath away from mine. My eyes focus on those soft pink pillows of pleasure and I feel absolutely captivated by them. I want more, I need him, but he is in complete control. His lips lift into a soft smile at my reaction before gradually becoming more serious. His sparkling green eyes are pleading with mine for something essential, but I don't know what it is. When he finally speaks, I feel as if I'm the most valuable person in the world.
"Don't you understand how important you are to me? To both of us? Both wolf and man?"
I feel his eyes run across every inch of my face and when I see the look in his eyes I feel a jolt of female pride run through me. He genuinely cares about me and he's done with trying to hide it. I can feel how his touch is trembling against me and I realize that he appears to be holding on to his control by a single thread.
"You scared the hell out of him. When he heard her cry out and felt her energy draining-."
I'm shocked by what he's just revealed, and can't help but interrupt him, calling him out on it.
"You felt us?"
He goes silent for a moment, as if this very shocking piece of information wasn't something he wanted to divulge to me just yet, but now he's caught in it and he has to continue. His eyes grow dark and I'm lost in the intensity shining through them.
"He did," he admits and I release a breath I've been holding. He shakes his head, almost as if he's struggling to believe it himself, and he's trying to find an explanation for what's happened.
"They've mated, Bella. They share a bond. It's fragile and new, but he felt it when you were in danger and he reacted. He's been fighting me all day, but at the first hint of your pain he lost it."
He closes his eyes tightly and leans his forehead against mine. I can see how difficult this is for him and I'm reminded of how strongly my own wolf fought against me earlier. We take a moment and simply breathe together, and I can feel how the stress in his body is slowly released and I know it's because of our physical and emotional connection. This isn't just a result of our wolves mating. He, the man, needs me just as much as I need him and it is something much more substantial than anything I've ever experienced, existential even.
"I almost lost control of him when he saw you lifeless on that motorcycle. I'll never forget the fear I felt in that moment followed by the blood seeking rage of revenge. We almost broke the treaty today."
His honest and trembling admission brings out a wave of emotion within me and I can't help myself. I need him to know that I care for him and that he hasn't lost me. My arms wrap around him, almost desperately, and I pull his lips back down to mine. This time passion explodes between us and it's as if we have both decided to let go of our control and give into the frenzy that has been building between us ever since we met. I feel the hard kitchen counter for a second against my back, before I am easily lifted and placed on top of it. My legs instantly part and I wrap them tightly around his narrow waist and pull him hard against me. I need him as close to me as physically possible and by the way he's reacting he apparently feels the same way.
We both breathe when we can, but it appears to be the least of our worries as an almost madness envelopes us both. The kitchen counter has helped even out our height difference and suddenly my top is gone and I'm tugging at his shirt. He's kissing down my neck, sucking on the sensitive skin at the base of my shoulder and I react by throwing my head back, hitting it against a kitchen cabinet while moaning loudly. He must have heard the thump because he looks up to check on me. His face is flushed, his eyes dark, like deep forest pools and his lips and mouth have turned a dark shade of red as a result of all of the passionate kisses we've shared. My heart stills in my chest and my breath hitches. He completely takes my breath away. His mouth curves into a lopsided grin and I feel tingles flow through every single part of me.
My hands are buried in his unruly hair and I quickly pull him back to me. His deep groan sends delicious vibrations through my entire body and I can't stop myself from rubbing against that hard rod that is perfectly placed just between my thighs. I can feel the intense pleasure that is wildly growing inside of me and realize that this time I don't want anything between us. I reach down to open the buttons of my pants before desperately trying to pull them off. After a moment's struggle, realization suddenly breaks through the heavy haze of desire. I feel as if I'm drenched by a cold bucket of water because now I'm able to comprehend that Edward is basically restraining me, trying to stop me from removing my pants.
He reluctantly pulls back, but I'm too embarrassed to meet his gaze so I keep my eyes locked on the bare skin of his strong and muscular chest. I don't know exactly at what time his shirt disappeared, but I'm really happy that it's gone. His chest almost makes me forget the fact that Edward has stopped us from going further, but the confusion and shame I feel makes me painfully aware of it.
"Bella?" I feel him step closer to me again.
His voice is gentle and almost timid, laced with a large quantity of uncertainty. When I don't answer him, he curls his hands around both sides of my face and tilts my head, forcing it gently up to his. I'm still struggling to meet his gaze, and keep my eyes closed, but when I feel him leave a soft kiss on each eyelid and then at the tip of my nose, my heart melts and I know I can't ignore him any longer. Opening my eyes, I'm yet again met by those dark pools of green. They seem lighter right now though and I can see how the sunlight is reflecting through my window and dancing across his face. When our eyes meet, he leans forward and leaves an achingly soft kiss on my lips, almost as if he's apologizing for his actions.
"We need to step back a little and take this down a few notches," he says softly and I have to bite back a frustrated retort.
I huff out a humorless laugh and he chuckles in response before pulling me against him in a sweet hug. He lifts me from the counter and moves us over to the couch.
"You need to rest," he continues, as if that should explain everything.
I almost prepare to argue with him, deciding that I should really present the fact that we both need a certain amount of release before succumbing to exhaustion. However, when he tucks me into his side, my head carefully placed against the cushion of his chest, I suddenly forget what I was about to say. I'm asleep even before the blanket is carefully placed over us.