Out of all fifty shopping carts the store had to offer, the cart I grabbed had to have the loudest wheels ever. Every turn made a rattling sound that could be heard across the store. Much to my embarrassment every head turned to look as if wondering what idiot chose the bad cart. I ducked my head away from their stares and briskly went down the aisles. Forks wasn't originally my go-to place for shopping, but the market in La Push was updating their stock for the winter months. I didn't mind traveling a bit further.

With the bonfire tonight, I felt the need to contribute with a donation of food. I didn't want to put all the work on Emily, despite most everyone was bringing simple foods like hotdogs. The least I could do was pull something together if she was making that delicious pasta of hers.

And considering the whole pack would be there, I knew I had to make plenty. Of something. I was still busily scanning around for inspiration. Maybe I was starting to take too long though, lingering as I was. Feng sat in the front part of my cart, kicking his legs restlessly. When I couldn't ignore it anymore I looked down at him.

"If I let you out, do you promise to be good?"

Feng batted his eyes up at me innocently. Then he pointed to the nearby candy bars and smiled big time at me. I blinked.

"Are you bribing me?"

I wouldn't be surprised. This kid was going places. Sighing, I handed him the bar from the shelf and pulled him out of his seat. Feng was more than happy to hold onto his reward for good behavior in one hand, while I held his other hand. Hopefully I could focus now. I was considering a healthy alternative to hot-dogs and marshmallows, recalling Jaio's sudden decision to eat healthy, (which caused Brady endless despair with his carnivorous tooth), but shrugged the idea off.

Coming up with healthy alternatives for a wolf was like asking me to howl. It just wasn't happening.

I rounded the aisle and started up the other side. Luckily Feng had no interest in throwing more things in my cart. It was a boring aisle for him. He just held my hand and sighed again.

"Hey, you wanted down cub." I reminded, still scanning around. Feng huffed again and let his head fall against my leg as we walked. By the time I tortured us both with enough wandering around to figure out what I wanted to make, I settled to make home-made pizza rolls and started for the meat department. I was torn between either pepperoni or bits of ham when an awful, but too familiar stench reached my nose.

Bewildered, I turned my head and waited. Sure enough, after a minute, two Cullen's came out from an aisle a few feet away from me. They pushed a half empty cart, and I got a good look at them before they noticed me. One was Carlisle's wife, I think. She had kind features and was wearing a nice teal blouse and dress pants. The Cullen next to her was undoubtedly a thing of stunning beauty. Flawless, flowing blonde hair, and a tucked in white dress shirt with jeans.

Only I couldn't bring myself to look away when they knowingly looked over at me.

I could only wonder what they were doing here.

All the sudden, I realized the warm spot in my hand was gone. Feng had rushed over to them before I realized it.

"Feng!"

He had reached them before I could reach him myself. Oddly enough though they made no move towards him, despite the small smile on Esme's uncertain looking lips. Of all things, Feng just smiled back at me like he was greeting some old friends. I watched, wide-eyed as he looked back up at the beautiful blonde. He reached up for her, bouncing on his feet, but she still made no move. Their eyes flickered between us both.

Esme cleared her throat, looking at me politely. "I believe they took to another while he was with us." She smiled. Still, I made no effort to respond. I was guarded, nervous. They had proved they were helpful once, but that didn't mean I had any trust going on. I noted the gold brass in their eyes. It was better than red, I figured. Slowly, I swallowed and let my eyes lower to Feng.

"I didn't realize he'd made any friends."

The blonde looked at me for a minute, and I couldn't read the expression on her face. Like she was trying to judge me. I still couldn't tell what she was thinking when she met my eyes again. "You're lucky. He's a very sweet child."

She thinned her lips, swallowing briefly. "I'm Rosalie."

The woman next to her smiled, and despite how much it bothered me, it was a comforting look. "Esme, as you might already know. It's nice to meet you in person, Ross."

A nod was all I could do. Whether I agreed with her was another matter. Esme awkwardly placed her hands at her side, perhaps figuring a handshake wasn't a good idea. I noted Feng was impatiently whining and still jumping for Rosalie's attention.

Well…someone had to take a leap of faith now and then.

"You can pick him up. He doesn't bite."

Rosalie looked at me a moment, both surprised that I offered, and probably wondering if I was making a joke. Indirectly though she knew I was questioning her instead. The blonde batted her lashes as she looked down, and couldn't fight back a smile as she picked him up. "No biting." It was clear to see how much happier she looked with him in her arms. How her pale features lightened up. Still, she spared me a glance and went back to turning her attention to him.

It only then occurred to me that my hands were balled so tightly, they turned white, anxiously. Esme noticed and was slow to walk closer to me. My eyes darted at her too quickly and she stopped.

"Ross, I… I feel like we've all gotten off on the wrong foot. No one should have to be hostile or nervous just because of what we are."

I dared only a second to look around. This side of the store was practically empty. Paul, or anyone from La Push would have a heart attack if they saw this right now. Me talking to a Cullen. Being civilized. My son in the arms of one-

I'd have to take us through the perfume department before we went home.

I tried to relax around them, but it was still difficult. Blood was blood. Though…an animal's was better, at least.

"Instincts aren't pleasant." I stated, keeping my eyes on Rosalie. She pretended not to see me, but I knew she was aware. Esme's eyes lowered until I continued. "But…that doesn't always mean they're right."

They both looked at me, and finally, I allowed myself to take a deep breath and close my eyes. "You guys will have to look after Bella tonight. None of us will be in Forks."

Esme looked curious but didn't ask. And Rosalie just seemed appreciative, slightly, that I had relaxed. Feng was making a mess of Rosalie's hair, giggling and playing through it. She didn't seem to mind though.

I ran a hand down my face, sighing. To think a shopping trip would end in a giant cat chatting with two vampires. It sounded weird to just think about, much less experience it.

"Wait," I froze dumbly, "do you guys eat human food?"

Rosalie and Esme cracked a smile. "No. We keep stocked up for Bella mostly." Esme answered.

"Oh." I felt bad for prying and furrowed my brows. "By the way, for her own sake, she should probably stay in Forks…" I mentioned, pursing my lips and keeping my eyes on Feng. I was surprised he hadn't yanked out any gold hair yet and decorated himself with it. "I know you guys have no reason to care, but Jacob's lost sleep in these Victoria shifts. One affects another like dominoes, and in the long run, it might create more hostility between… us." I was tempted to clarify that meant mostly between them and the wolves, but they seemed to understand.

"Meaning-" Rosalie began.

"It means I think you guys are more than capable to protect Bella." My statement surprised them. "This whole situation is over-exaggerated, at least how myself and a few of us view it. So if Bella really is committed to Edward…she should know by now how Jacob gets silly around her." I trailed off, hinting. Their eyes promptly widened. I watched as Rosalie set Feng down, still stunned.

Rosalie quickly looked at Esme. "Edward would be crushed if she's cheat-"

"Rosalie. We'll discuss this later." Esme politely spoke, returning her attention to me. "We'll look after Bella." She assured, although it wasn't Bella I cared about. I nodded, accepting Feng back to my side. His visit seemed to be over now.

I paused. "Well…goodbye. See you I guess."

Esme returned the gesture, but nothing more needed to be said. We weren't friends. But we weren't at each other's throats. It was this awkward middle ground where no one was too sure where to go. I eased away back to my original aisle, though at this point I'd forgotten what I was getting there. My mind was racing too much to figure anything out. All the sudden I felt Feng wrap around my legs and whine. I barely registered his change in mood before a store worker was briskly making his way towards me.

"Ma'am, I have to ask that you refrain from letting your children get into products before they're purchased."

I spared a glance down, realizing Feng's candy bar only had a tiny bite off the corner. "Oh, I didn't notice-"

"Of course you didn't." The man smiled, patronizing. I barely had time to furrow my brow and open my mouth before he went on. "And when he leaves a mess behind I'm sure you won't notice that either?"

"I beg your pard-"

A wave of gold suddenly stood between us. I stared at the back of Rosalie's head, realizing how much taller she was than me. "Excuse me, but if you knew a fraction of how hard it is to raise and manage a child, you'd be minding your own business. If you're upset over a dollar piece of candy, here," suddenly I saw one dollar bills being tossed in his face, and Rosalie cocked her head, "so go crawl back to your little basement, learn some decency, and maybe then you won't be such a rude cave dweller. Go on. Invest in a razor while you're at it. Bye now."

The man stumbled away without hesitation. Feng was giggling against my leg, but I was lost in shock, mouth hanging open. Rosalie, who even in the store's lousy lighting looked like a blonde goddess, barely turned her head. Enough for me to see the side of her cheek, but not her eyes.

"You've got a special kid there, Ross." She paused, and I didn't know if she was composing herself. At first, I didn't recognize this odd sensation in my chest right away, not till I figured it out. Sympathy. A vampire was…well, dead, I guessed. And with how she clearly adored Feng, it made me wonder if vampires couldn't have children.

By now, I knew there was another connection between my instincts and humanity. They had rationalized together to determine how I hunted vampires. If I saw a conscious, like in the Cullen's (some, anyway), then my mind compared them to a human. Of a greater threat yes, but only Victoria got my blood racing. Maybe it was an animal thing. I could sense a person's heart, no matter how frozen it was. The Cullen's still bothered me to a degree, as it would for any human, which half of me still was. But there was still a difference. Like this second species of vampire my instincts didn't hate. Those rushed instincts that sent me after Victoria. Granted, that had been such a strong urge. It was still greater than my occasional desire to go hunting for food. At least food I could understand. Stormy needed Paul and I. And there was no great impact on the environment.

Yet I still had no reason to hunt Victoria other than this innate, raging monster inside me overtook my senses. Maybe I should be more like the wolves. Drop my curiosity that didn't have any answers and just go with it.

And those instincts, which never lied to me, had me speaking softly.

"Feng likes the park here in Forks… Mostly Saturdays in the afternoon." I lowered my gaze to him as Rosalie turned her head, wide eyed. "The pack would overreact if they knew… But I don't see any harm in playdates."

Esme was smiling nearby, especially as Rosalie's countenance softened. "Thank you…Ross. Bye, Feng." She cleared her throat and returned to Esme. I picked up Feng into my arms, feeling a sudden appreciation for my cub. My sweet cub that a beautiful vampire, who had everything, at least in my mind, would want left me feeling odd. That despite that seemingly curse for needing blood, there were still some things they couldn't enjoy despite beauty, strength, and all the time in the world. I snuggled Feng closer and finished shopping with my head in the clouds.

I kept the windows down to air out our scents on the way home. I wanted to feel happy that I had made this connection with the Cullen's. That somewhere down the road, peace might exist between the pack and them.

But all I could see was Rosalie's sad smile.

All I recognized now was that I felt sympathy for a vampire.

And that if anyone else knew that, I'd be running out of lives.

.

.

.

"Flour?"

The small bag was pushed over. "Flour."

"Measuring cup?"

"Meswing cup."

I cracked a smile. "At this rate, you're gonna be a good little chef Feng." Feng and I had been home for a while now, and since making homemade pizza rolls didn't take long at all, I waited till we had an hour or so before the bonfire tonight. Feng had been antsy to help me all day. Not that he knew about the bonfire, but he was pretty psyched to hang out with Harry. I hoped the babysitter wouldn't be too overwhelmed.

Now my assistant and I were busy in the kitchen making the dough. After I had set the frozen pepperoni on the counter and began to shape the dough, before I'd stuff it with cheese and pepperoni, I noticed Feng in my peripherals giggle at something. I turned my head, suspicious by the scent of wet wolf. When I looked back, the pepperoni bag was gone.

"Paul!"

A shameless chuckle was my response from the wolf hiding behind me. I snatched the bag from his hands, frowning to note it was already halfway empty now.

"Great. Now half of them are just gonna be cheese sticks… Or pockets of cheese basically."

"All sounds good to me."

I gave him a squint and went back to my work. "Feng, bodyguard."

The little cub let out a breath as he jumped off the counter, moving to stand behind me and stare up at Paul. Feng's eyes were adorably serious as he crossed his little arms, staring up at the wolf. Paul cracked a grin.

"You gonna stop me little man?"

"Feng, defense."

All the sudden my cub let out a tiny little kitten hiss, which almost sounded like a spit, and he jumped a few inches from it. Paul barked out a laugh and moved away, doubling over. "What, is he your Pokémon now?"

"It seems to be working." I spared a smirk over my shoulder. "Especially since you won't let me work in peace."

"Fine, fine." He dismissed, though he did bend over his knees to challenge Feng. I could hear the little cub bravely racing at him. The next moment the house filled with squeals of laughter and running around. Of course, myself would be the only one to witness this side of Paul. Where being with his imprint he didn't have any anger at all.

And if I wasn't enough, all he had to do was look into Feng's big, innocent eyes.

Yeah…felines were magic.

By the time I set the food in the oven to bake, I was going to clean up when the wet dog smell grew close again. I crinkled my nose. "What, is it raining?" I dreaded to know. Paul had Feng over his shoulder, grinning as the child was a mess of giggles. "No, me and the guys had a fight in a lake."

I looked him over. "Who won?"

He looked offended. "I was against Embry. Who do you think won?"

"Well…"

I yelped when suddenly his other arm came and scooped me up. Before he could drop me over the couch and get back at me, a pair of furry tanned arms wrapped around us and brought Paul to the ground. I breathed out a laugh as Stormy had successfully brought us all down. "Cheap move Stormy, I was distracted!" he tried defending, embarrassed the overgrown kitten had brought him down. But none of us were going anywhere when Stormy plopped down on his back, rolling his head over him.

"Face it Paul, you're outnumbered."

I knew that look in his eyes when they flashed up to me. Challenging a wolf was their kryptonite, like mine was curiosity. All the sudden, he pushed up to his feet, against Stormy and Feng's weight, and with a grunt, he held me above his arms like Tarzan showing off a prize.

Feng slid down his side and ran off, and thankfully Stormy bounded after him.

"Are you done?" I patiently asked. With a sudden burst of energy flowing through him, that made him look like some sort of Greek warrior, he let out a breath and smiled at me. I was startling aware to how human I was when I didn't shift, or wasn't close to. The next second Paul had tossed me down on the couch and suddenly was over me, reminding me how inhumanly fast werewolves always were. I dreaded to think, that in some aspects like Bella, the ones' we loved had to show restraint not to hurt us. I stared up at his animated features.

"You're awfully…energetic tonight…"

"I get to hang with my girl. That's reason enough. Problem?"

"You're feistier than a kitten."

He squinted. "Are you comparing me to a kitten?"

When he inched forward challengingly, I decided to combat his energetic state. Only it didn't mean I had to wrestle around in a lake to get this way. My lips found their way to his neck, and it clearly caught him off guard when I nipped at him and my hands shot forward. Knowing pretty much all his weak spots, Paul was torn between laughing and growling. An odd combo that settled in his throat. At least till his hands caught mine, and we were left staring each other down.

"I'll have to talk to Embry." I decided. "Forbid you from wrestling anymore. Especially if you come to me this extra wolfy. My gosh you smell-"

So, I had it coming, but thankfully the oven beeped and I needed to flip the rolls over. Paul made sure to tangle up my hair for good measure by the time I escaped him.

I was never a good outlet for a wolf's energy. I found they were too aggressive, and in a relationship, Paul still liked to have fun while still doing the whole dominance thing. As a much calmer, rational feline, I didn't get the desire for the roughhousing. Half the time it was just me struggling to get even with him, that or he'd just keep me in his arms and not let me win at all. Sometimes I wished he'd get it all out of his system with the others, instead of on me. If I wasn't in the mood, it was bothersome at times to put up with his abrupt desires to fight and wrestle.

A feline's patience only went so far before the claws came out.

And when my leash began to slip, if Paul didn't read my signs early enough, a close to shifting growl always did the trick. Felines naturally had a bit of attitude, though for all of my pack it might take time to reach that point. I was somewhere in the middle with Chi. It would take a good deal to push our buttons. Yan-mei on the other hand had less patience. If her glares didn't kill you, a growl behind those pink lips would.

As I was flipping the rolls over, a pain in my shoulder throbbed and had me dropping my spatula on the counter. It was such a subtle gesture, along with the grunt of pain under my breath, I shouldn't have been surprised Paul noticed. Goodness knows if he didn't see something, he'd sense it. The next moment he was at my side, placing a burning hand on my arm. It felt nice with the ache there.

"I didn't hurt you, did I?"

His voice was deep, anxious. I shook my head, lying. "I think I slept on it funny."

I met his eyes, and I saw the regret in those dark hues. And a brief reflection of myself too. Of a fairly small woman, at least against the ridiculously tall pack members, one who wasn't athletic looking in the slightest compared against those around here. Average. Human, at least half. Delicate. It was nauseating to think of my fragile humanity next to them. That I could only be equal if I was going to shift. I felt his anxiety that although I was still part of the pack, we all were still very much different.

But I knew him well enough that if he thought he'd hurt his imprint, it would bring him such despair and anxiety he'd be restless.

"I'm fine." I assured. "Don't make me put on two hundred pounds to be a big cat to prove that to you." With that, I went back to flipping the rolls and popped it back into the oven. Paul didn't seem convinced, and his desire to goof around seemed to have worn off. The moment he turned his back, I jumped him. And, Paul knew me well enough that he wasn't surprised. He just latched his hands under my legs, leaning forward so I wouldn't fall. I draped my arms around his neck loosely, head falling into his shoulder.

"I love you, Paul."

When he only sighed through his nose, since he knew that I knew he was bothered, I bumped my head into his neck. "Come on…don't make me bite you."

I could almost sense he rolled his eyes. "Yeah right-"

So I bit him.

Nothing hard, but it still made him glance at me. "Pft. You call that a bite?"

"Well I wouldn't want to hurt you."

"I'm not fragile." He smirked. "Unlike some."

Yep, that did it. My claws came off. Close to shifting, but not doing so. Just that middle ground that was frighteningly inhuman, but enough to give me a boost and make me equal…almost. I'd need that last edge of shifting if I ever wanted to be equal to a wolf.

Wrestling Paul into the ground seemed to convince him I was fine, which I was. This time though our 'fight' wasn't nearly as playful, more so an affectionate attempt to show him I was fine. After a minute or so, I collapsed on his chest, sighing out hair from my face. His arms settled like a cozy lock in the small of my back. During then I caught my breath, listening to the steady rise and fall of his breathing. Despite his blazingly hot chest, I was comfortable enough to sleep.

I didn't though. My timer on the food would be going off soon. So I kept where I was, relaxed, and enjoying his embrace. As comfortable as I was, I didn't protest when his arms moved me up. Then a nose buried through my hair, following a deep, lazy exhale. Times like these I figured wolves were more in-tune with their other side than my pack was. For us, it was a casual thing of no real importance. It didn't separate us much from a normal human. But Paul was so fierce, so wild sometimes it… it was oddly pleasant.

He ended up holding me tighter when the stove beeped. The food was done, our noses could tell that clearly.

"Uh…I gotta get up-"

Paul grumbled.

"It's gonna burn."

Nothing.

I turned my head. "Stoooormy!"

My hero came sliding out into the hall, big blue eyes wide and happy. Then like a galloping horse he made his way over, promptly laying down on Paul's head and rolling. My wolf had no choice to let me go so he didn't choke on fur. I rushed to the kitchen and saved the pizza rolls. Hot, and a little crunchy. Perfect. I loaded them all into a large bowl where they'd stay warm, and rushed to get dressed. It was much colder outside, so I had to get myself and Feng ready.

I cleaned up first from the kitchen exercise with Feng. Afterwards I threw on a pair of jeans from my cozy shorts, and added a thick blue jacket. Feng was more or less the same, even if it was just for the walk to Emily's. By the time I returned, Paul's face was turning red and his cheeks were protruding.

I stared at him. "The hells' wrong with you?"

He looked off when his eyes watered and swallowed hard, letting out a hard breath. "Nothing."

"You didn't let the pizza rolls cool, did you?"

Guilty.

"Serves you right. By the time we get to the bonfire they'll be cooled off enough to eat." That said I wrapped up the bowl to be safe from the cold and whistled. "Come on Feng, Stormy!" We left the house, and I was glad to see the dark clouds of night carried no moisture in them. Stormy followed behind us while Paul held Feng for me. My arms were too full with the big bowl meant for a dozen or so wolves, plus a few humans. The walk to Emily's house was short and cool. Paul only laughed when I shuddered at the smallest of breezes. We met Sam and Emily there, and their babysitter assured two extras was fine.

As long as the biggest baby of the three wouldn't be snagging anyone's limbs, which he wouldn't. Stormy stretched out on the couch and he was good for a few hours. That done, I promised Feng I'd be back soon. He soon was busy zoning out with the t.v.

I shook my head and left the house, so it was just the four of us on our walk. With the roads so dark, and no cars going about at all, we walked along the road for the beach. Sam was busy smacking a stubborn flashlight, trying to get it to work. I assured them that despite the darkness I could get everyone to the beach safely. Paul snorted.

"Yeah, you watch where you step, but you don't have any problems letting Sam and I trip up on something."

"Maybe you should be lighter on your feet. Take a few lessons from me and the kids."

The indignant sound he made in his throat left me kicking at him. Sam cracked a grin and Emily busied me with talking about food, and all the things she was thinking of making. Girl talk. Things Sam and Paul didn't notice as they talked themselves, unless, goodness forbid, Emily mention some sort of food involving meat. I swore every time she mentioned cooking ribs next summer those two's heads would look over, as if said food was going to pop up somewhere.

It was a hilarious trait I noticed with the wolves.

Cats were no different, if it involved our sweet tooth. Every one of us were beyond guilty then.

Our lively conversations seemed to make time fly. In seconds it felt like we had arrived to the clifftops. Though during the hike up the island's mountainside we did slow down for Emily's sake. The fire was already roaring, and even a distance away it warmed me up. But I still decided to keep my jacket on till we settled down. Billy was there, accompanied by an older man. Billy introduced me to old Quil Ateara. He didn't have much to say to me. I figured he was just a quiet guy of few words. Jared, Quil, Embry jogged over to talk to Paul and Sam, and by then I had put my bowl a little ways from the fire with Emily's food so everything would be easy to get to. I noticed Emily had brought a notebook and a pen. It made me wonder how long these stories would be.

As the pack talked on the other side of the fire, I drifted closer to the cliff's edge and sat back on a boulder. Away from the fire, where only blackness resided, I could see everything clearly. Different shades of grey, and then the pitch darkness of the sea where my eyes couldn't go beyond. The waves far below were restless and cold, loud from here too. But their rhythm was calming to listen to.

I was relaxing till an arm went around my shoulder. Paul smirked when I jumped.

"Not very social tonight, huh?"

I looked over my shoulder. "Everyone seems fine. Besides… you have your friends, I have mine. Speaking of which-"

Paul looked startled when Jaio's loudly excited giggle came across the fire, then she was hurrying over to me. Her smile nearly took up her face. "This is so exciting! Thank you for inviting us." She beamed, bending down to hug me. I chuckled when her pigtails flopped around my head. "Of course, Jaio. As you guys' alpha I figure some history lessons should be thrown in there."

Paul crossed his arms, smirking down at me. "Super cat."

I laughed this time. Chi appeared next, visibly excited. He seemed a bit tousled looking, lively enough. I noted Collin and Brady nearby. Probably a late night race to get here. Yan-mei was glued to her phone, and now and then her lips would curve upwards slightly.

Well, whoever she was texting so much had her smiling. I was tempted to ask about it till I saw a slender, short haired woman who wore as little clothes as the men around. It was like second nature to get to my feet and give Leah a hug. She was busily looking around, noting everybody was there.

"You've heard our stories, right?" she asked, focusing her dark eyes on me. I half shrugged. "Only bits and pieces. Nothing official like this though." Leah returned to looking around, though I couldn't figure out why. "I haven't been to a social like this since I could shift. I think I'll be paying more attention now…" With that, she drifted away to sit with her brother. Most everyone had relaxed back on the logs sitting a short distance back from the fire. Since my kids had instinctively met up with me away from everyone, or to my brooding feline moments as Paul put it, I nodded them over. The logs to Billy and Old Quil's left and directly in front of were filled with wolves, and a few human girls I didn't know. Must've been their imprints. But the log on the right was open, and I cozily sat back in the middle of it. Chi and Jaio instantly took seats on either side of me, and Yan-mei sat on her sister's side, eyes never leaving her phone.

I was tempted to tell her to put it away when the elders would start talking, but I figured she'd have enough sense to. So I listened to Chi and Jaio ramble. Mostly about what they'd be doing on break. As for me, I'd be getting married. Granted I didn't think the pack would have enough time to celebrate with Victoria sneaking about, but Paul and I didn't want to wait any longer.

It felt like it was taking forever to reach that big day, and yet, I never dreamed it would be so close.

"Scram feline." I recognized the joking, but slightly serious voice of Paul nearby. Chi groaned as he got up, moving to sit next to Yan-mei. Then Paul, about as warm as the roaring bonfire in front of me, pulled me into his arms. With my chills shaken away I nearly purred and leaned into him.

"You can't be cold anymore, Ross."

I shook out a chill. "Can't stop the breeze."

He just gave me a little squeeze. Figuring I was going nowhere in his embrace, I lifted my head from his chest. "So who are the new faces?"

Paul chuckled. "They're not entirely new. You just don't hang around enough of us to notice."

"Firstly," I looked at him from under my lashes, "I've learned to be content and not be everyone's buddy around here. Second, no mind link. I've got enough with these two keeping me busy…and a toddler…and a job-"

"Okay okay I get it." His lips tugged upwards. "The girl attached to Jared is Kim. Imprinted on her a while ago. Had this crush on him all throughout high school, then after he shifts, one day at random he's taking out the trash when he sees her. Been neighbors their whole lives. Just like that he's got an imprint." Kim was a fairly pretty girl with a big smile. She seemed incredibly happy with Jared. Then Paul's gaze inched over. "The one with Embry is Eliza, the fairly newest imprintee. Before Embry's change she actually hated his guts." Paul shrugged.

"I know the details thanks to our wonderful link." He rolled his eyes.

"Why did she hate him?"

"Eh, she was a bit of a social outcast in their classes. He didn't exactly defend her from bullies."

"No." I gasped. "Embry was a bully?"

"Not exactly. He just laughed now and then, but didn't really do anything to stop it."

"Then that all changed once he could shift?"

Paul nodded. "Every class he changed his seat to sit next to her, and at the first crack from the bullies he broke the guy's nose." Paul leaned back and turned to watch the fire comfortably. "Embry's just happy these days she's forgiven him."

"Big change." I mused, briefly watching the new couples. Eliza seemed socially anxious with her wide dark eyes and long brown hair, hiding into her oversized hoodie now and then and smiling uneasily whenever someone came to talk. But it was cute how Embry would hold her closer and they seemed to relax. I shifted my eyes over to Paul. "Sometimes I wonder if we would've been friends before you first shifted."

It was like the twilight zone for a moment. Paul's face didn't have any expression and he seemed lost in his thoughts. I was so focused on him the world blanked out around me for a moment. Furrowing my brows, I crossed my legs up beside me and turned towards him.

"Paul?"

"Of course kitten." I didn't like the way he said it. Like he was just saying what I wanted to hear. His gaze continued to keep on the fire.

It unsettled me. "If you hadn't imprinted, would you have ever given me a second glance?"

Paul opened his mouth to speak, but no words came out. I felt my brows knitting upwards and my throat felt tight. I swallowed hard and turned away before he could notice.

Ouch… The tightness in my chest was startlingly painful.

But if he didn't see something that bothered me, he sensed it. "Kitten-"

Billy cleared his throat and smiled a little. "Everyone, please get comfortable and get your food. We are almost ready to begin."

The pack crowded around the food, including my kids, but Paul and I stayed put. I blinked when staring at the fire made my eyes too dry. "Go on Paul. Get a plate." I gestured him off. His stare lingered a moment before he got to his feet to get himself a plate. Jaio returned to her seat next to me with her own plate, humming in delight. "These pizza rolls are so good Ross! Huh? Why aren't you eating? You OK?"

My lips thinned and I lifted my head, staring past Paul who had yet to stop glancing at me.

"Yeah…just a little cold."

Paul sat next to me, but I didn't snuggle near him. It would be awkward while he was eating, I reasoned. I also reasoned there was no need to be mad at Paul. Even if imprinting brought us together, I undeniably wondered if he would have ever fallen in love with me naturally…

Then again, if it was just that and no imprinting, my heart would break if he actually did imprint on someone else. I snapped out of my headache, lightly shaking my head. Luckily my hands were cool against my head. Amid everyone's cozy talk and eating, and Paul glowering next to me, the smallest sniff had my head turning, along with a few others.

Jacob walked out from the woods, the one I realized was missing the whole time. Then my eyes inched over. Behind him stumbled Bella, the human girl in my last encounter I swore to essentially shred if she dared to trouble Jacob again. Luckily that tidbit was kept quiet. So far Jacob didn't know and neither did the Cullen's aside from Alice. I'd know they knew if they ever came after me.

Though my head was turned towards the fire, my eyes were glued to the corners, staring for a minute. Mentally I could hear my mother's reproaching words.

'Ross, you need to mind your looks. Your eyes are sharp and judging. You don't realize the power you hold in them. They can cut through the thickest of ice, and they grow so dark- you don't even realize it. Oh Ross dear, you are truly beautiful, flawless in your complexion and style, but dear, your expressions can murder anyone.'

I turned towards Billy and Old Quil just as Bella's head turned. She never noticed. I don't think anyone did, thankfully. If this was Jacob's decision, I wasn't going to question him. He wasn't a child anymore.

But I still didn't like it.

I didn't like that side of me. It was too much like the wolves, led by emotions rather than any rational judgements. It was that side that made me fight often throughout high school. Where hormones raged at an all-time high, and no one thought too clearly.

I was glad when the elders started speaking. Despite how it managed to captivate my attention, as well as everyone else's, a nauseous churning remained in my stomach. Whether it was from my last conversation with Paul, or the feeling of anxious human eyes glancing over to me every time I moved, I wasn't sure.

I couldn't wait for this week to be over…

.

.

.

The next day, early that Saturday morning, Ross was up early and quietly. Dawn's soft, early and clouded light peaked from the windows. Judging by how cold it was since she got out of bed, she dressed in layers till she was comfortable enough. A faded red sweater, and a medium grey pea coat that went down to her thighs, covering her jeans snuggly. A pair of beige booties protected her feet with grey cuffs folding at her ankles. Ross had quickly freshened up and left her hair down to keep her warm.

Once she was ready to go, she leaned over her sleeping wolf and kissed his cheek. "I'll be back soon." She murmured. As she eased away, a warm hand wrapped around her wrist, making her feel incredibly small.

"Where are you going?" Paul murmured, face half hidden in his pillow.

Ross sighed through her nose. "The Park. Feng likes it before it gets too busy."

He nodded, though as his grip on her wrist lightened, she heard his soft breath. "Yes, by the way."

Ross returned her eyes to him, brow furrowing. "Yes to what?"

Paul's messy black hair was strewn about, and if the pack didn't need him, he'd be sleeping plenty more hours. He barely looked half awake, she noted. Still, his dark eyes inched open, sleepily. "If I couldn't, or didn't imprint on you. I would love you anyway. Cause… I fell in love with you awhile after I imprinted on you. I don't love you just because you're my imprint, y'know."

"I never expected you to be this romantic so early." Ross mused, impressed clearly, but smiling at least.

Paul sat up quickly, though he wobbled. "I can be very romantic-"

"Not this morning pup." Ross assured, raising her brows. "Morning breath and you needing a shower ASAP are kinda problematic. Anyway, go back to bed, I'll be back soon."

She pecked his lips, lingering a moment to show her appreciation for his kind words. Then, she left to get Feng ready. An amused sound left the woman hearing Paul fall back into bed and start to snore immediately.

Within the hour Ross took a seat on the park bench in Forks. It wasn't much different from the one in La Push, really. The woman lifted her head, looking up at the sky despite the breeze pushing hair in her eyes. Dull grey and dark blue clouds. Rain later. As Feng was wide awake now and having a blast scrambling through all the giant plastic tubes that made up the castle like playpen, Ross noticed after a moment she wasn't sitting alone.

Out of nowhere Rosalie had taken a seat a few feet away on her end, legs elegantly folded and regal looking. Ross briefly glanced over before turning her attention back to Feng.

She didn't feel anything need to be said. Rosalie's perfect features were serene, completely relaxed.

"I always wondered." Rosalie began, causing Ross to blink out of watching Feng. "How you seem to have such a good hold on your control. The dog- werewolves," she corrected, "seem to have no restraint at all."

The dark haired woman took a minute thoughtfully. "I'd say it was more instinct based for them, but I can't. We all have our moments but…to put it plainly, I guess my kind are just calmer."

She felt Rosalie's brief, curious look, but didn't look over. Ross was busily watching Feng when he decided to climb the step tower. When he was fine, Ross relaxed again.

"So do I smell?"

Rosalie looked over wide eyed. "What?"

The startle on her features caused Ross to smile. "My scent. I was told it was unique, but I'm not sure what that means."

"It's only unpleasant because of their smell." Rosalie crinkled her nose. "Aside from that it's…different. Like a wild animal, but not bad. Like…nature. Grass, flowers…and still house cat."

"That doesn't sound too bad."

"Rose-lee!" Feng sang, rushing over. He must have just noticed the vampire. Rosalie leaned over her knees, smiling. But she did cut a glance over just to be sure. Ross appeared completely calm, eyes half open. She even lifted her head a moment to enjoy the breeze. Rosalie scooped the toddler up in her arms, smiling.

"Oh, you're getting so big!"

His shameless giggle sent adoration through both an icy and calm heart. All the sudden, amid Feng's smile, his big eyes lifted over Rosalie's shoulder.

"Dah!" he cheered.

Both women went pale. Ross nearly lost all her color to match Rosalie's colorless face. Only now could they smell what the wind carried. Frighteningly close. The silence was even more bothersome.

"Rosalie." The feline whispered under her breath. "Do you trust me?"

Gold eyes flashed over, wide.

Ross's breathing was fast. After a second's pause, Rosalie gave a stiff nod. It left Ross staring ahead, rigid.

"Take Feng…and stay behind me. Whatever you do, don't run… Please."

Gradually, Ross furrowed her brows till she was shaking readily.

"Keep him safe from us."

With her last human breath, Ross jumped over the bench.