The Twilight Saga belongs to Stephenie Meyer, Summit Entertainment and anyone else who may legally claim ownership. No copyright infringement is intended.

Like the last chapter, I have no beta or computer. I'm one finger typing on a small device. I promise you punctuation errors. There will probably be typos, as well. Let's blame them on autocorrect. (it's probably not autocorrect's fault, it's most likely my mistakes. Shhh...)

If anyone knows a beta reader I need one.

I do reread my chapters, but I miss things.

I don't like posting imperfect chapters.

This chapter has sexual content making it one of those earning the story an M rating.

A warning to those who dislike long descriptions. Near the end of this chapter, there are paragraphs with extensive descriptive content.

Chapter 23: Construction

Bella had called Esme on the way home, to calm her worries. She also told her about the changes to the treaty. Carlisle had asked her to, he knew by now Esme would have had the whole family wondering what Billy Black wanted to talk to Carlisle Cullen about. Esme gushed over Bella being accepted by the tribe once she was a vampire. Bella didn't have the heart to correct her. In Bella's opinion, this meant she might be tolerated by the Quileutes, she didn't think it would be possible for them to be completely at ease with any vampire. It wasn't in their nature. Even Jake couldn't understand.

When Carlisle turned his Mercedes up the drive to the house, he knew something was wrong. There wasn't a sound to be heard, except for the hushed murmur of the evening forest. Being able to hear both ends of Bella's conversation with Esme, he knew Esme hadn't mentioned the whole family going out. If they had planned to, he knew they would have said something. He looked at Bella, as his apprehension grew. "Something's wrong. I can't hear anyone."

Bella was perplexed. "You don't hear anyone?"

Carlisle shook his head. "I don't hear anything at all from the house, or anywhere around it. No voices, no music, no video games, no movement, nothing. There's just nothing."

Bella looked thoughtful. "Maybe they all went hunting."

Carlisle shook his head. "If everyone was going, Esme would have mentioned it."

Bella, wanting to give Carlisle comfort made another suggestion. "Maybe they decided after I called Esme."

Carlisle gave Bella a tight smile. He appreciated her motivation, but they both knew Esme would have called them if everyone were going hunting or anywhere else.

The house was coming into view. It looked completely normal. There were lights on, but it sounded so empty. Carlisle looked at Bella. "Stay here, while I look around."

Bella muttered under her breath. "As if..." She exited the Mercedes and followed Carlisle.

Carlisle shook his head at Bella, but he could see she wouldn't do as he'd asked. Now, he would have to search for trouble at human speed, while keeping Bella safe. He fervently wished he had already changed her. He held his hand out to her. She was at his side, holding his hand as he opened the door and entered the house. They searched together in silence. A search, done as quickly as possible with a human, revealed nothing out of place in any nook or space in the house. It was simply empty.

They left by the front door they came in. The vast yard was normal as well. Carlisle didn't want to take Bella into the forest, so he decided they could search the gazebo Emmet had built for her recovery. He was certain the family wouldn't be there. They had treated it as Bella's personal space since Emmet built it. They were only in it if Bella was, or if they had asked her first; regardless of her insistence that they needn't ask her. He steered Bella to the walkway and they headed to the immense gazebo, still without speaking. As they approached, Carlisle could hear the crackling of a fire. He knew it must be in the gazebo's enormous fireplace; but, he couldn't think who would have lit it without asking Bella. He could think of what it might be used for, and the thought terrified him. He simultaneously wanted to pick Bella up and run away at vampiric speed as much as he wanted to get to the fire and hopefully not find anything horrific. He shook his head as if to clear it. Jasper's discoveries, Alice's visions, and his reliving his experiences with Joan when he told them to Bella were getting to him. He knew, logically, that there must be a simple explanation. He was distressed to discover that the logical part of his brain wasn't in control now, his suspicion and fear were. Although, his fight or flight instinct was trying to hone in. He wondered if he should pick Bella up and run her to La Push where she would have the safety of the wolf pack. As he thought this, the gazebo came in sight.

Bella inhaled sharply. The gazebo was ablaze with hundreds of fairy lights wound around the beautifully crafted wood.

The deathly silence was broken by Alice shouting, 'surprise', and bouncing. The family was all there. Emmet's grin looked like it would split his face. Esme's smile looked extremely pleased and excited. Jasper was laughing, he'd picked up on Carlisle's emotions and knew just how surprised Carlisle was. Edward was smiling, but there was something behind his smile. When his fear had taken over, Carlisle hadn't guarded his thoughts. Edward was concerned that Carlisle would so easily fear the family had been slaughtered. He was frustrated too because now Carlisle was guarding his thoughts again. It was automatic for Carlisle, he probably hadn't even made a conscious choice to put his guard back up. It made it so Edward couldn't see why Carlisle jumped to such a gruesome conclusion. Rosalie was uncustomarily trying not to be noticed. The look in her eyes belied the smile curving her lips, she was hoping Esme wouldn't notice her less than happy demeanour.

The relief in Carlie's smile and voice was easily mistaken for pleasure. "What's this?"

Emmet's grin remained the same, but there was a slight lascivious glint in his eyes. "Your wedding present. Or did you think we weren't going to give you two anything? Come see what we made for you guys."

As they entered the gazebo they found Emmett standing by a large trap door with an ornate wrought-iron handle and hinges. He bent over and opened it. The door locked securely open to more wrought ironwork on top of the wooden wainscotting. The underside of the door had handholds that would bring the user to the railing of a beautifully crafted spiral staircase.

Alice's voice chimed on the warmed air of the gazebo. "Go on!"

Carlisle smiled, and went first, so he could catch Bella if the need arose. When they reached the bottom they were standing in a beautiful room. The centrepiece of which was a very large, intricately carved, sleigh bed with matching bed steps. It stood beneath a beamed ceiling. Several feet to the left of the bed was an alcove. Inside it was a spacious, fitted hot tub, made of the same gleaming wood as the rest of the room and furnishings.

Alice pulled Bella to one of the two doors in the room. It opened to reveal an immense dressing room. It was divided by cases in the middle. Each side had bureaus, jewelry cases, accessory niches, wardrobes, and shoe shelves. One side of the room had a chair, chaise, and dressing table that were accented with leathers, the other side of the room boasted the same, only these were accented with soft fabrics in feminine colors. It was a his and hers dressing room like Bella could never have imagined. Alice bounced in place. "Do you like it?"

Bella admired the carved botanicals in the woodwork. "It's beautiful, Alice."

"I helped Emmett design this room."

Alice pulled Bella back into the bedroom and through the second door, with Carlisle following. This room was a sumptuous bath. It had a double size clawfoot tub and an enormous multi jetted shower with seating for two. Behind a carved wooden screen was a toilet and bidet set. Alice spoke, not noticing Bella's embarrassment. "As soon as you're one of us we'll remove these, you won't need them anymore."

Back in the bedroom with the others, Carlisle looked at Emmett. "This is some incredible workmanship."

Emmett looked unrestrainedly pleased. "I thought you'd like a place out of earshot of the house. We won't have to leave to give you privacy now. It's yours every night and whenever you want it."

Esme put her hand on Bella's flushed cheek and smiled sweetly. "We won't have to embarrass Bella by leaving not so subtly either."

Jasper tried to ease Bella's embarrassment. "Esme decorated this room."

Bella turned to Esme. It's beautiful, the bedding, the pictures..." Bella trailed off as she noticed that the beautifully framed photos scattered around the room, and hung on the walls, were all of her and Carlisle's wedding in Maine. "Esme, it's perfect."

"I'm so glad you like it. The rooms in the house are still yours, of course."

Bella wanted to say it was too much, but she had learned to keep that sentiment to herself.

"Come upstairs, we have a little party, just for us, and we have some treats." Alice beamed.

The family spent the evening playing board games around the fire. Bella had a delicious supper. Later, Bella was delighted to have the first gingerbread men and eggnog of the season. She loved that she didn't have to eat alone. The others indulged in several cups of their favorite blood throughout the evening, kept body temperature in coffee chafer urns. Neither Bella or Carlisle could imagine a better party than this one.

When the party broke up, Carlisle and Bella headed down the spiral stairs to their new, private bedroom.

Bella trailed her hand over the soft, light cream colored bedding. She looked up at Carlisle.

Carlisle reached out and drew Bellas hand to his lips. He kissed the top of her hand, his beckoning eyes caught hers, as he slowly turned her hand over and placed a sensual lingering kiss on her palm.

Bela's knees weakened as she found herself caught in Carlisle's heated gaze. Before she could realize what was happening Carlisle had them both completely unclothed laying on the huge bed.

Carlisle's voice was deeper than usual. "Isabella, forgive me? I was overcome."

Bella laughed. "I don't mind at all." Her laughter abruptly ceased as she caught sight of Carlisle's magnificent erection. It stood thick and proud. It seemed to be stretching, hoping to reach the ceiling. Bella slid her hand across Carlisle's chest and down over his abdomen. She wrapped her hand around him. He felt like the softest silk. Although, it felt like that silk was wrapped around something extremely firm and unyielding. He warmed as she stroked him. She wanted to see his face, but she couldn't seem to tear her eyes away from what she was doing to him. She heard her name breathed in a deep moan. Encouraged, she continued to caress him with even steady strokes. After a few short minutes, his hand come down and stilled hers.

Carlisle sat up, bringing her with him. His lust-filled English accent spoken softly in her ear and sent her already heady arousal soaring. "I want to be inside you, Isabella."

His words rendered her mute. All she could do was nod her agreement. Carlisle lay her down, spreading her arms as he did. He had warmed from his usual room temperature to her temperature as they touched, something Bella didn't even notice as Carlisle ran his hands over her. His fingers skimmed slowly down her sides, tantalizing as they moved. She mewled in anticipation. When his teasing hands reached her knees he slowly spread her legs. He almost lost control at the sight of his sweet young bride, naked and spread completely open before him. He knelt between her knees, reaching up and cupping her breasts. He gently squeezed, caressed, and lightly pinched, until her moans and sounds became desperate. In one swift move that made her cry out loudly in pleasure, he was deep inside her. He took her lips with his, nipping and sucking, pushing her further as her breath came in gasps. He reached one deft hand between them and teased her sensitive spot while he rhythmically moved within her. Their almost spontaneous climaxes were equally shattering. After giving Bella a few moments for her breathing to return to normal, Carlisle took her in his arms and carried her to the hot tub. Kissing her passionately on the way.

Wanting to test the Quileutes willingness to abide by the new adjustments to the treaty, Jasper took out his cell and sent a text to Jacob Black. He got an almost immediate response. "NP, My Dad, Old Quil, Sam, and I are all here. TBH, they won't be thrilled. FWIW, I think it's a great idea for you to come down. YOLO, unless you're already dead. LOL CYS"

Jasper moved quickly. He could hear Carlisle and Bella in the kitchen. In an instant, he was with them. "Mornin' Bella, Carlise."

Carlisle looked up. "Good morning, Jasper."

"Hi, Jasper," Bella spoke between bites of Apple cinnamon muffin.

"I wanted to let you know I'm headed down to La Push. I asked to meet with tribal and pack leaders. I thought we ought to fill them in on the recent unusual activity around the state."

Carlisle regarded Jasper thoughtfully. "You suspect the pack of killing the vampires."

"Yes, Carlisle, I do. I want to see their reactions, feel their emotions, when I tell them. Then, I'll know."

Carlisle nodded. "I know you'll be respectful and restrained. You're the best one to speak with them about this. Although, you might not want to go alone the first time we test the new treaty. Why don't you bring Emmett and Rose?"

Jasper smiled crookedly. "I appreciate your concern, Carlisle. But, I already let them know it would just be me. If they are, as you've always insisted, just protecting themselves and their tribe, there won't be any trouble. I'm not posin' a threat."

Bella put her muffin down. "Why don't I come? They don't need to be told I'm coming while I'm still human."

Carlisle didn't understand the reason for Bella's offer. "Why, my love?"

Bella laughed. "Not for protection, of course, but me being with Jasper might calm their deep-seated fears. I'd be visual proof that people are safe with Jasper."

Jasper smiled. "Honestly, Bella, I'd rather not be in an enclosed car with you, and you can't run with me, not just yet, anyway."

Bella's brow furrowed. "You've been in Carlisle's car with me."

Alice seemed to dance into the room. She went to Jasper and took his hand. He looked down into her eyes. "I won't hurt her."

Alice went up on tiptoes and Jasper bent his head to receive her light kiss on his cheek. "That's right, Jazz, you won't."

Carlisle seemed slightly nervous but didn't protest the idea.

Jasper smiled at his wife as he spoke to Bella. "Let's go, Bella. We don't want to keep them waiting." He tilted his head up toward the ceiling and spoke in a normal volume. "Edward, your Volvo is the least ostentatious car."

Edward's voice could be heard calling down from some higher floor of the house. He had raised his voice for Bella's human hearing. "No problem, Jasper, take it."

Jasper, in a slight hurry, kept his answer simple. "Thanks."

Bella changed quickly. She was now wearing a soft stretch denim ensemble, similar to her ice sharing outfit. The leggings were topped with a simple long-sleeved shirtdress in the same fabric. On her feet, she wore light honey-colored Le Chameau Vierzonard yard boots that almost reached her knees. It was all topped with a long Burberry, Kensington trenchcoat, in a coordinating honey color. Her coat ended a few inches below the tops of her boots. When she got to the garage Jasper was waiting by the passenger door of Edward's Volvo. He looked casual too. He was wearing blue jeans and a tan turtleneck; with dark brown Tom Ford double-monk boots, and a dark brown Tom Ford leather jacket. Jasper held the passenger door and Bella got in. The garage door opened to sheets of icy November rain. Bella wished she'd put on thermal underwear, their destination was probably going to be colder than she'd like. The driving rain lashed at the Volvo as they turned onto the road, but they were dry and comfortable in the climate-controlled car. Jasper, knowing there was no way to prepare for the upcoming meeting rifled through the CDs and slid one in the player. Expecting country music, Bella was surprised that Jasper had chosen newer alternative rock. The ride was wordless, Bella felt safe with Jasper driving. She was sure he was obeying the speed limit for her benefit. Not that it mattered with his reflexes, but she felt safer, anyway. The ride was pleasant. The music even seemed to be enhanced by the rain, rather than the two sounds competing.

Jasper shut off the music as they crossed into La Push. Soon, they were parked in front of Jacob's house. He came out and bounded to Bella's door. When she opened it, she was met by his questioning tone. "I didn't expect to see you, Bella."

Bella looked up at Jacob who seemed oblivious to the drenching rain. "Yeah, Jake, I'm here to keep the peace if anyone gets too rowdy. You never can tell with a party like this."

Jacob pursed his lips before answering. "Sure, sure, with a rave-like this one's gonna be, we'll need you to keep us from getting wild." Jacob grinned and spoke to Jasper. "C'mon leech, this way."

Bella pulled her Haymarket Check lined hood over her head, and followed Jacob in the freezing downpour. They soon came to a small building that was set apart from the rest. It was unimposing. It was painted white at one time, but it needed a new paint job. It was topped with a tarpaper roof that was also covered with weighted tarps. Bella took Jasper's arm. He glanced at her but said nothing. Jacob huffed a laugh, knowing exactly what Bella was doing, and held the door for them. As they passed, Jacob threw Bella a look that said her display wouldn't impress anyone. She held Jasper's arm tighter.

A small fire burning in the middle of the one-room building. Around it sat Sam Uley, his expression wasn't welcoming, but it wasn't hostile either. Next to him sat Billy Black, who looked displeased. Finally, Bella's eyes landed on Old Quil. She was surprised to see that his face was the most welcoming.

Billy gave Bella an appraising look. "I'm surprised to see you here, Bella."

"Yeah, I thought I'd come, it's been a while." when Billy responded with stony silence, Bella continued. "I can go wait in the car if you'd rather."

Old Quil broke the now silent staring contest between Bella and Billy. His tenor voice was neutral. "You are welcome here, Bella. Come, sit beside me. There are fewer drafts over here."

Bella gave Old Quil a genuine smile and sat beside him.

Jacob sat by Sam leaving a place for Jasper between himself and Bella.

Sam looked at Jasper. "I'm Sam Uley. Please, sit."

Jasper nodded and sat. He looked at each face around the small circle before speaking. "I'm Jasper Whitlock."

Billy snorted. Without introduction, he spoke in a derisive tone. "Hale, Cullen, Whitlock, who are you that changes his name so often?"

Jasper's tone was solemn, but not unfriendly. "Well, sir, when I was born I was named Jasper Whitlock. That is my true name. Since joining the Cullen family, I must occasionally use the name Hale to pose as Rosalie's brother. It works out better that way when we enroll in schools."

Jacob laughed. "Yeah, I can't see schools being happy if you and your leechette try to enroll freshman year as Mr. and Mrs. Whitlock."

Old Quil nodded and turned to Jasper. "A disturbing necessity I'm sure. No man wishes to set aside his name, his heritage."

"It is not what I'd choose if there was another way." Jasper agreed.

Bella's sure voice spoke in accord. "We all want to live as the family we are. If using another name in public makes that easier, it's a small price to pay."

Jasper turned to Bella, but spoke so everyone could hear. "That it is, Bella. I'd take an entirely new name if I had to, in order to keep us safe and together."

Sam was a bit irritated by Billy trying to subtly malign Jasper. He assumed Jasper was there for a purpose. He wanted to know what that was. He glanced at Old Quil, who inclined his head slightly. "Jasper, was there something you wished to discuss with us?"

"That's why I requested this meeting." jasper's voice was quiet and serious. "We've noticed human drinking vampire activity across the state."

Jacob jumped to his feet. "What, and you didn't tell us?"

Jasper remained calm but spoke to Jacob in his no-nonsense tone. "I am telling you. There was no need to tell you until I had confirmed my suspicions."

"Jacob, sit down." Sam turned from Jacob, who had grudgingly complied. "What do you know about these vampires?"

Jasper looked at each of the Quileutes in turn as he spoke. "I heard of some killings on the news. The authorities were calling them animal attacks. From the times and distances being reported, animal attacks didn't sit right with me. They started in the eastern part of the state. I took a trip to investigate. I didn't find a vampire in the town of the attack, but in a nearby town I found the remains of a vampire."

Jacob interjected. "Remains? I thought you had to be in pieces, then burned."

Jasper nodded. "That's right. But a vampire can recognize even the residual traces of where another vampire was burned, the ashes don't have to be present. However, these weren't traces. The ashes were all there. If a scientist tried to figure out what they were, they'd be stumped. But, we can tell, without a doubt. Nothin' looks or smells like another vampire's ashes to us. The smell lingers at the burning place, even after all the ashes are gone." Jasper's face showed his revulsion. "Nothin' else smells like it."

"If the vampire is no longer a threat, why tell us?" Sam looked perplexed.

"There were more humans killed. Those attacks happened after the first. They are heading west. At each murder site, I found the remains of a vampire nearby. Now, there's been another murder. That means there's still a human drinking vampire out there. Whether it's the one who killed the vampires, or another, it's headed in this direction."

Sam's face looked concerned, angry, and determined, all at once. Jacob looked ready to run and find the vampire; and Billy's face was smug, it said 'I told you so', without him needing to utter a word. Sam nodded grimly, "We'll take care of it."

Jasper looked into Sam's eyes and spoke evenly. "We came to warn you, not to defer to you."

Old Quil cleared his throat. "We appreciate the warning. We'll be on the lookout. If we discover a vampire in the area, we'll let you know."

Jasper looked at Old Quil. "I'm going to be heading out to look around the most recent murder site. I can let you know what I find."

Old Quil nodded. "That would be appreciated."

Jasper smiled and inclined his head cordially to Old Quil. "If there's nothing else, we'll be on our way."

Sam stood. "I'll walk with you." Jacob stood to accompany them. By Sam's sharp look he knew he was to stay put. He turned to Bella and hugged her. She returned his embrace, then pulled back and looked into his eyes. "Jacob, promise me you won't go looking for vampires."

Jacob's voice was unusually serious when he answered Bella. "No can do. If I get the chance I'll hunt this bloodsucker down."

Bella began to protest. "Jacob, no. You cant—"

She was cut off by Billy. "You take care, Bella. Say hi to your dad for me."

Clearly dismissed she turned to Old Quil. "It was good to see you again. Thank you for having us."

Quil smiled. "Anytime, young lady."

Billy's voice was unnecessarily loud. "Just give us a call first, if you won't be alone."

Bella wasn't having it. Billy had been the one to request a meeting with Carlisle. He had made the changes to the treaty. Still, he was, distrustful, unwelcoming, and rude. "Certainly, Billy, I'll make sure dad calls you first if he heads down." She turned toward the door, where Jasper and Sam waited.

Billy's voice was hard. "That's not what I meant, Bella."

Bella turned on her heel. "No, it isn't. Why change the treaty if you intend to remain so... So hateful? We know the treaty requires advance notice if we visit." Billy's expression was thunderous at her inclusion of herself with vampires. She ignored him. "The treaty has never been broken, or even pushed in any way. No Quileute has ever been harmed by one of us in any way. We've been nothing but polite and respectful! And here you sit, insulting and deriding us at every turn. Well, I'm sick of it, Billy Black. You may be dad's friend, but you are no friend of mine until you grow up and return the courtesy and respect shown to you." Without missing a beat she turned to Old Quil, her voice softened. "I apologize for the outburst, but I've had enough of Billy's unfounded attitude."

Quil's face was grave. "I understand, No animal drinker has ever harmed us, but they are held accountable for the actions of human drinkers that did in the past. It is not right."

Bella smiled at Old Quil. "Yes, but I shouldn't have lost my temper. That doesn't help anything. Thank you for your welcome, and your time." She moved swiftly to the door and stepped out into the rain. She immediately slipped in the mud. Jasper caught her easily before she fell. "Well, that ruined my exit." She muttered, making Sam laugh.

Once Bella was in the dry car Sam turned to Jasper. Neither seemed bothered by the rain sluicing down them. "Would you mind if I go with you when you go to check out the most recent death? I'd like a chance to see the other places you saw too."

Jasper smiled. "That'd be fine. I'm headin' out as soon as I get Bella home. Meet me on the road, seven miles east of our place, in two hours."

Sam nodded. "I'll be there." He extended his hand, and Jasper shook it.

When they got home, Bella, leaving her muddy boots outside, gave Carlisle a quick kiss and excused herself to change.

Carlisle regarded Jasper expectantly. "What happened."

The two moved to the living room and sat across from each other. Jasper's face was unreadable. "It went better than I expected. I do not believe the Quileutes had any involvement in, or knowledge of, the killings; vampire or human."

Carlisle smiled. "That's a relief."

Jasper nodded. "It is. I felt a whole lot of different emotions, though. Quil Ateara, Old Quil, is certainly the leader, but he didn't need to announce or display the fact. The others weren't overtly deferential, either. It was just there. He seemed to have no preconceptions. He watched and listened. He seemed to understand the unsaid. His emotions were even and remained peaceful. Except with Bella."

Carlisle looked alarmed. "Did he dislike her?"

Jasper laughed. "Just the opposite. He was impressed by her. He was giving off the kinda feelin's a proud grandfather would."

"What did she do to cause that?"

Jasper smiled. "She showed dignity and poise beyond her years. She was quiet and attentive. She spoke only when it was important." Jasper paused "Until her tantrum at the end."

Carlisle was taken aback. "Isabella had a tantrum."

Jasper grinned. "Well, that was one opinion of her reaction. The whole time since we'd arrived, Billy Black was being belligerent towards me. I know you said he seemed accepting when you met with him. Either somethin' changed drastically or he's only accepting of you. His emotions too were not like you described from your meeting. I felt cynicism, bitterness, and aggression comin' off him in waves. At the end of the meeting, Bella thanked them for having us. Old Quil told Bella 'anytime', the inference being a return invitation for any time, to both of us. Billy, pretty loudly, reminded Bella that if she were to bring anyone with her, she needed to call first. After how Billy had been acting, which you didn't need to be an empath to see, I think Bella'd had about enough. She tried to pass it off, she said she'd tell her dad to call before he came. If Billy only had left it, but he didn't. He corrected her as if she hadn't known his meaning all along. That's when she let him have it good."

Carlisle's brows furrowed. "Do you think there will be repressions?"

Jasper laughed. "Sam Uley was understanding. He knew Billy had crossed the line. Jacob was neutral. But, Old Quil, he seemed to be entirely admiring of Bella's reaction. Which, by the way, no one but Billy saw as a tantrum. I think Billy Black likes putting anybody down."

Carlisle looked impressed. "That's quite the takeaway from a short meeting."

Jasper nodded. "I learned a bit. Unlike Billy Black, who judges us without knowing us, Sam Uley seems to be reserving judgement until he really knows us. He asked to come with me to look at the place of the most recent killing, and to check out the others too. I agreed. We'll be leaving pretty soon."

The two looked up as Bella came in. She sat beside Carlisle on the sofa; putting his arm around her, Carlisle drew her to him. "I hear you were impressive in La Push today."

Bella looked like she didn't agree. "I slipped in the mud. I don't even know how there was a spot of ground that wasn't frozen."

Carlisle smiled fondly. "Only you would focus on that. You did brilliantly."

Bella blushed at Carlise's praise.

The next afternoon the Cullen family, except Jasper, were scattered around the living room. Esme had her interior design things around her, but she was only doodling. Alice wasn't paying any attention to the fashion magazine that lay open on her lap. Edward was occasionally tinkling the keys of the piano as he stared blankly out the window. Emmett and Rosalie sat with a board game between them, but neither were actually playing. Carlisle and Bella held a large book open together, Bella was staring at the pages, but her eyes weren't moving, as Carlisle sifted his fingers through her hair and gazed steadily at the clock. They were all anxiously waiting for Jasper to return. He had been gone much longer than his planned trip should have taken. He had called Alice, but he only told her he was fine, and things were taking longer than expected.

Alice was the first to recognize the sound of her husband's approach. "He's coming."

By the time everyone's eyes had turned to the door, all but Bella could hear him running towards the house. He shot past the living room but was back in an instant. He had changed into dry clothes but his hair still dripped onto his shoulders. Before Bella could notice she'd left, Alice was back, draping a towel over Jasper's shoulders. He turned and kissed her briefly, but soundly. Alice drew him to sit beside her, where her magazine lay on the floor forgotten.

Jasper looked at Carlisle. "It's worse than we thought. We got to Auburn, to look around. Everyone in town was talking about the animal attack. Wondering if Bears were coming close to town and whatnot. I'm not the best tracker but between Sam and myself we followed the trail. It led us down to Hood River. There we found the remains of another vampire. Sam, he could tell another vampire had run off. It's somethin' I couldn't tell with the smell of the burned one. We followed the trail as far as we could. We lost it in Seattle, but whoever it is, they're headed northwest. As we were leaving Sam caught the scent again, only this time it was fainter, older. We followed it anyway, to see what we would find. We followed it to Northport and up into Canada. We covered several hundred miles. We picked up talk of animal attacks and centered our searches around where humans had been killed. In both countries, we found the remains of twenty-four vampires in all." Jasper pressed on, despite the horrified reactions around him. "In four places we found the remains of two vampires together. Whoever is doing this, they are strong, knowledgeable, and possibly not alone. Sam has gone to inform the pack and tribal elders. Then, he'd like to meet with us again, including you too, Carlisle, as our leader."

Esme spoke quietly, her eyes glancing repeatedly to Bella as she spoke. "If this... Vampire killer is headed this way, and their murders are committed after the killing of humans, then no one in town is safe."

Jasper nodded. "We'll have to keep Bella with the strongest of us, and preferably more than one of us. We can keep her safe."

As Carlisle held Bella closer, Esme and Bella spoke simultaneously. "Charlie."

Emmett joined the conversation. "Don't worry, Bella. We'll find a way to keep your dad safe too."

Jasper looked at Bella. "The best way will be if the pack decides to work with us. If we can coordinate, you, your dad, and the town stand a better chance. I must say, though. I was suspicious of the Quileutes. They changed the treaty just as all this happened. It seems too much of a coincidence. I don't like it. But, I do trust Sam. He isn't trying to hide anything and his concern for everyone, including our family feels completely genuine. Nonetheless, I'd like to bring Edward along. I don't trust Billy Black."

Bella wanted to defend her dad's friend, but after the meeting she and Jasper had with the Quileutes, she couldn't.

They had decided to meet in a truce area. Forks seemed like the best option as both the Cullens and the shape-shifters had been allowed there since the first truce. Deciding where in Forks proved to be more difficult. There weren't many places in Forks where you could have private gatherings. Emmett's motto of, 'if you can't buy it build it', was seriously considered. In the end, Carlisle and Bella accompanied Emmett, Jasper, and Edward to some property they owned nestled on the outskirts of Forks, near the edge of Olympic National Park. They would build it. As they headed out, Alice and Esme, accompanied by Rosalie, made a quick run to Seattle for some emergency evening shopping.

Overnight, they had built, furnished, and decorated a two-story cottage.

The cottage couldn't be seen from the drive onto the property, or from the parking area. The only obvious route from the parking area was a small winding path that headed into the forest. The cottage access was completely indiscernible.

Once found by those who knew it was there, the front door of the cottage opened into a bright living room that would also provide a good meeting space. It was arranged so that it would seat twenty-four for a meeting, more if necessary. There were two fog colored sectional sofas, each facing the other to form a rectangle, each with plenty of room to seat twelve and still have enough space to not feel crowded. Heavy coffee tables centered in each, provided a place for snacks and meeting materials. Scattered around the edges of the room were various styles of armchairs in groups, artfully interspersed with occasional tables, that matched the coffee tables; as well as two loveseats facing each other in front of a beautifully recessed fireplace. These were all luxuriously upholstered in the same fog fabric Esme had used on the sectionals. The room had pillows, throws, art, and other touches in varying shades of blue. In typical Cullen fashion, the front wall was floor to ceiling windows that faced what would be a lovely garden come spring. The other walls Rosalie had painted in a soft shade of white. A wide double door on the back wall led to a combination kitchen and dining room. As you faced the back wall, a small door could be seen on the end wall to the right, and a large opening on the end of the living room to the left.

Going forward, through the double door was the dining room on the right. It would seat twenty-four at the main table in the center. This room too was decorated in shades of white, but the white was accented with soft sage green and muted rose. The heavy wooden table had a low rectangular planter full of succulents running down the middle. It was set on a simple misty sage and muted rose table runner. The chairs Esme had upholstered in the same sage and rose. The white back wall was covered with framed art. Each piece of art was not only exquisite in color and detail, but also had special meaning. The spectacular glass wall of this room overlooked a winding brook backed by forest.

The large country kitchen to the left of the dining room continued the white theme. The only other visible colors in the room were the copper pots and pans hanging from their ceiling rack and the flowers in a milk glass vase. The vase was in the center of the white kitchen table that sat in front of a window with diaphanous sheer white curtains.

The stairs to the second floor wound up from the center of an open space shared by the adjoining ends of the kitchen and living room. Beside the stairs was a door to a well-appointed bathroom. It had a jetted tub under a huge window, a large seated multi-head shower, and a vanity that ran the length of one wall with a sink in the middle. The toilet and bidet were to the side, hidden behind a short dividing wall. The whole room was simple polished wood and stone, and it was home to a profusion of plants.

Back through the living room, The small door on the other end wall opened to reveal a private sitting room. It was comfortably furnished with an overstuffed sofa and two similar chairs. These faced three bedroom doors. The door on the right opened to reveal a bedroom decorated in Navy and white, with a nautical theme. The center door opened to the largest bedroom in the cottage, easily twice the size of the nautical themed room. It had a huge canopy bed and was decorated in many textures and shades of white and ivory. It had a door to its luxurious bathroom centered between two sets of French doors on the back wall. The last door, on the left of the small sitting room, opened to reveal a third bedroom that was the mirror image of the first nautical themed room, except it was decorated in lilac with a predominant floral theme.

The second floor of the cottage, with its slanting ceiling and multiple skylights, like the bedrooms, was Alice's creation. The wood was a light natural color with a clear finish. Done in numerous inviting fabrics the space was bright and airy. The simple wood walls and floor perfectly displayed all the colors of sunset, from the many hues of blues to pinks, purples, golds, and oranges. The seating consisted mainly of cushions of all sizes and shapes arranged on floor cloths all around the gleaming wood floor. Between and around them were handcrafted woven baskets of differing materials. All the baskets were covered, keeping their contents a mystery. On the wall at the end, under a large round window sat a huge wooden chest. From the ceiling hung the most unusual part of the strange room, many handheld musical instruments. There was a light pink acoustic guitar hung amidst tambourines with floaty ribbons, bright maracas, hand drums, flutes, handheld keyboards, and even a Stradivarius violin. No one understood this room except Alice, and for once, she kept her visions to herself.

Rosalie's voice was loud and clear as she took in the finished cottage. "Isn't this a bit much for a doggy daycare?"

Alice nodded. "There's a place for smaller meetings, Edward's been making that."

Rosalie's angry voice could be heard easily by those following Alice back to the parking area and down the small winding path into the woods. "Then what is this for?"

Alice's windchime voice floated back to her. "It's in case we need a place for bigger meetings."

Carlisle voice could be heard. "Are we going to have bigger meetings, Alice?"

Alice smiled. Her only reply was a shrug.

They had reached Edward who had been working out of vampire earshot of the new cottage. He stood beside a small simple structure. A wooden building in the shape of a nonagon, the roof of which came to a point in the center. There were large windows on eight walls, the ninth had the door. They went in to see a lovely polished wood interior. In the center was a round table with eight comfortable seats and empty space, presumably for Billy's wheelchair. The decor was simple, under each window was a granite planter holding a lush plant. Each of the nine segments of the ceiling had its own oversized, triangular skylight. Simple sconces on both sides of each window would provide ample artificial light should it be needed.

Esme beamed. "It's lovely, Edward!"

Carlisle smiled appreciatively. "It's a perfect place to meet." He looked suspiciously at Alice. "I thought we were building one place to meet. What's the cottage for, Alice?"

Alice sounded slightly defensive. "Don't look at me. It wasn't my idea to build two places. I only got to decide on four rooms to include in the cottage."

Jasper joined the conversation. "I thought somewhere more plain, would be best, for now. Until they get to know us. Then we can have meetings at the cottage. Besides, we didn't have the materials to hook up the plumbing at the cottage yet. If someone went to use the facilities, they wouldn't work."

Carlisle looked like he didn't think he was getting the whole story, but he let it go as Bella spoke. "The generators keep it nice and warm in here."

Esme smiled. "Of course, the plants wouldn't survive the cold. Now, we have things to do. Bella, if you'll come with me, I need to run to the market to pick some things up, then get home and make snacks for the meeting. Alice, would you go downtown and secure any permits we should have had? Emmett—"

Jasper's voice was as polite as he could make it. He hated interrupting, especially a lady, and even more so, Esme. "Let's not forget that for now, we need to travel in pairs at least. I'd be more comfortable if we could stay in groups of three or more."

Esme looked contrite. "Of course, you're right, Jasper. Carlisle and Emmett, will you come with Bella and me?" Esme didn't wait for an answer but pressed on. "Jasper, Rose will you go with Alice?" She turned to Edward, arms now akimbo. "Edward, I don't want you tempted to use vampiric influence. You will have to come to the market with us. We'll leave the dazzling, as Bella calls it, to Alice. Although, I suppose Jasper's gift can help her too. Now, we really must get going." Esme turned to Bella. "You will help me find things Jacob and the others will like, won't you? We'll stop and get you some breakfast first. I doubt you got much sleep with all the construction noise."

Bella smiled at Esme's mothering. "Sure, Esme."

Carlisle knew vampires, especially his family, loved taking anything to excess; but he still wondered why they had built such an odd, camouflaged cottage, when Edward had built the nonagon meeting space.

Jasper greeted the same group of Quileutes that he and Bella had met with, in La Push. This time, however, Jared was with them. Jasper suspected this was an attempt to keep the numbers even, as he had informed Sam about who would be there. He led the silent group along the winding path to the new nonagonal building. Edward had groomed the path while they waited, so Billy had no trouble wheeling himself on it. When they reached the meeting place, Carlise and Bella stood outside to welcome them. Pleasantries were exchanged as they entered the building. Carlisle smiled genially at Old Quil. "Please choose a seat. Old Quil chose a seat one space out from the open spot saved for Billy Back. Sam sat between them, with Jacob on Billy's other side as Jared took the seat on Old Quil's other side. The others waited for Carlisle's lead. Carlisle chose the seat beside Jacob, Bella sat beside Carlisle, with Jasper on her other side followed by Edward. Each place had a glass of water, and an earthenware plate with a forest green linen napkin folded simply on it. The table held pitchers of additional water scattered between many earthenware bowls and platters of finger foods.

Bella placed her napkin in her lap. "Please, everyone, eat. Esme and I made plenty. She filled her plate with food and took a bite of a cheddar sage biscuit. No one moved. "C'mon, guys, it'll all get thrown out if we don't eat it." The food eaters at the table looked dubiously at the food.

All but Old Quill. He seemed amused. "Do not make the girl eat all this by herself."

Jacob didn't need to be given the go ahead twice, he piled his plate with some of everything. Old Quil thanked Bella and took a ham club roll-up for himself. Jared and Sam took this a signal that they should partake of the offerings, as well. Billy sat pointedly back in his chair and folded his arms across his chest.

Carlisle gave everyone a few moments to swallow their first bites before speaking. "Thank you all for coming. This is a serious situation. Not only my family, but the people of La Push, and the townspeople, are endangered, as well."

Billy spoke harshly. "We can take care of our own. You are not our responsibility."

Carlisle's brow creased. Of course, we aren't your responsibility. We are not asking for your protection. We are talking about working together, equally."

Billy made a derisive sound. "We have updated the treaty. That's enough."

Bella stood and all eyes turned to her. "I was at your meeting. I know your treaty updates. They benefit your people and no one else."

Billy gave Bella a stern look. "The Cullens are now allowed on our lands."

"If we get permission first." Bella emphasised the 'we' when she answered Billy, She was a Cullen now and he knew it. Her voice rose as she continued. "And the only reason you so graciously allow Cullens on your land now is so that we can help you. You need Carlisle's medical help and you changed the treaty to get it. That was obviously your only motivation."

Edward was concentrating on Sam and Old Quil. Billy's words carried weight, but theirs carried more.

Jasper was checking everyone's emotions. Sam and Old Quil both seemed cautiously optimistic, Jared seemed confused about his feelings, Jacob was a bit worried, probably that his tribal elders would want to leave before he was finished eating. Edward was wary, Bella was quite angry, and Carlise was disappointed and disheartened. He couldn't quite understand what Billy was feeling. He was acting antagonistic, but his emotions weren't. He seemed to be almost anticipatory.

Bella was still standing, her hands on the table. She and Billy we're seemingly engaged in another staring contest. Finally, Billy looked away.

Carlisle turned to Old Quil. "Mr. Ateara, I had hoped we could work together, not only to help us, but to help you, and to help the town."

"I understand, Dr. Cullen."

"Carlisle, please."

"And I am called Old Quil. So as not to be confused with my grandson."

Carlisle smiled.

Bella addressed Billy again. "My father is in danger. You claim Charlie is your good friend, but you're not acting like someone who cares about him."

Billy's face remained hard. "Of course, I want your father safe, Bella."

Jacob swallowed audibly. "I'll make sure your dad is safe, Bella."

Carlisle's English accent echoed in the momentarily silent room. "That could be more easily accomplished if we work together. Everyone will be safer if we work together."

Old Quil's tenor took on an authoritative tone. "I agree." His wise eyes went back and forth between Sam and Jasper. "What do the warriors say?"

Sam and Jasper shared a glance. Sam spoke surely. "We believe working together is in the best interest of everyone, Quileute, Cullen, and the townspeople."

Jasper voiced his opinion knowingly. "That is if we can all agree. If there's dissent, we all'll be weakened instead of strengthened."

Old Quil looked Jasper in the eyes and nodded. "I agree. Working together is the best path for everyone." He turned his gaze on Billy. "What do you say?"

Billy nodded. "I say we work together."

Billy's words took Bella by surprise, causing her to sit down suddenly.

The meeting went on for several hours. At one point, Esme came to replenish the food and drink. Edward and Jared engaged in a hushed conversation as she did. In a few moments she was gone, graciously imploring the assembled to eat as she left, saying there was plenty more when this was gone.

When the meeting finally broke up, Jasper sensed feelings of excitement, mostly from Jared and Jacob. He also picked up on satisfaction and hope, tempered with caution; but this time the caution was sensible, not suspicious.

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