AN: I do not own Twilight.
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Chapter 13: Pennies for thoughts
The next day at school, I couldn't pay attention in English class, or any class that morning. I was too busy thinking of ways to tell Katie about the meeting. How do you say "hey, I really like you, but my tribe wants to make sure this is real? Are you free Saturday? Sam and the elders want to interview you." Actually, with Katie, that might work. I know she already suspects something. So, I just have to bite the bullet and tell her what is going on. The bell rang and I ran into Katie in the hall. Unfortunately, school was just not the place to do this, so I waited until school was over and offered to give her a ride home.
"Seth, what is going on? Is something bothering you? You are really quiet. You haven't even cracked a smile all morning and usually you smile a mile wide," said Katie
"I'm ok. I've just been thinking."
"Penny for your thoughts" asked Katie as she reached into her pocket and pulled out a penny.
"Wow" I said laughing, "I don't think anyone I know has actually pulled out a penny when asking that question.
"I know. The first time I heard that expression, I was three or four. I ran to get a penny and now when I ask anyone, I give them a penny. Yes, I know it is super literal, but it has a way of getting people to talk. Plus, I'm your imprint. And if the bond is as strong as you claim, then tell me. There is no reason to keep secrets- as one of us is going to find out," said Katie
"Hey, want to get slushies and drive out to the point for a few minutes."
"Yes," said Katie.
I stopped at the gas station and we got wonderful slushies. Then drove out to a point by the shore.
"Well, you know how I told you that the Imprint is a tribal thing. And that you and I are one of the first couples with no connection to the tribe?"
"Yeah"
"Well, you remember Sam. You met him when he interrupted us on the walk."
"Yes, what about him."
"He's one of the elders. He wants to talk to you."
"Well, that doesn't sound so bad," said Katie. "I can do an interview. What do I need to know? What sort of tribal information do I need to know for this? I can learn it- just teach me."
"So, you aren't angry with me or upset by this?" I asked. To be honest, I'm surprised by her reaction, I thought she'd be furious.
"I'm not mad- a simple interview isn't that bad," said Katie, "But I do need to know what I'm getting into to. Tell me is there are any major things I should or shouldn't say. I'll show him that I'm worthy of trust."
"I never doubted that. You are brilliant. But I don't really know what Sam would ask you or what he wants."
"Seth, you must be joking. I think you know exactly what this is about," said Katie. "You'd better share that knowledge with me." Katie glared at me. I know she's trying to be serious, but the look on her face is priceless.
"Katie, what is that look for? What are you trying to do?" I burst out laughing.
Katie punched me in the shoulder. It barely hurt, but I said "ouch. What was that for?"
"For laughing," said Katie, "I was trying to read your mind. You said that some imprinted pairs can do that. Occasionally, it seems like I get a flash of your emotions or what you might be thinking, but that is all. If I could read your mind now, I'd know what to expect."
"Wow," I said, "you're taking this a lot more seriously than I am, and I've been born and bred to it."
"I'm taking it seriously because it is serious. You said that this bond means that no matter what we do, where we go, our lives will be intertwined. So yes, you can't expect to tell someone that and then downplay the connection. This is new. But it is real. And if being with you means that I must charm the pants off some tribal elders, I'll do it."
I stopped Katie and put my arms around her. Then I pressed my lips to hers and kissed her. How on earth did I get so lucky? I'm terrified of what Katie will think when she knows the full truth about why we imprint. Will she accept it, or will she run for the hills at top speed?
"So, why do you imprint?" asked Katie
"Did you read my mind."
"Sort of. But that is all I got. You have a hot girl on the beach and all you can think about is imprinting?"
"I can assure you that most of my thoughts had nothing to do with that and everything to do with the amazing girl next to me." I kissed her again.
"Nice try. Answer the question," said Katie.
"I don't know," I replied.
"Don't know or Can't say." Asked Katie.
"Can't say yet." I said. "It is part of the reason that Sam wants to talk to you."
"Why is he so concerned? I know I'm not the first person to date a member of the tribe. Is he terrified I'll corrupt you somehow?
"You're right. You aren't the first to date a Quileute. It is different when we Imprint, though. Sam and Jacob will explain everything. You will do great. In fact, I predict that you will have them eating out of your hand by the time the meeting is over."