My head is killing me.

I couldn't sleep at all after my fight with Seth and David. I thought crying my heart out would tire me enough to dive my brain into a sweet relaxing coma, but it only intensified my anxiety. Why did I say those things? Why did I hurt them like that?

Renesmee was nice enough to carry me to her house, but I immediately regretted everything I said the second she put me down. My heart tightened, and my shoulders suddenly became so heavy that I thought I would fall from the weight, but it was done. I couldn't take my words back. All I had left were my emotions trying to suffocate me.

I'm lucky Renesmee is my friend. She could have hated me for stealing her memories and taking them to a mad vampire scientist, but instead, she approached me first. She asked to be my friend even after everything, and now, more than ever, I'm glad she did.

Renesmee's house is as beautiful as the last time I was here. The soft colors decorate the living room in beige and white tones with a soft pop of color from the green plants around the house. The lighting is warm and comforting, reflecting on the white floaty curtains, but it's a vampire house, after all. There are little to no facilities for humans, like a bed, for example. But Bella got me an air mattress comfortable enough to sleep. She put it in Renesmee's room, where her bed was supposed to be. I heard she used to sleep when she was born, but I don't ask too much about her infancy. It was a tough time for her; she almost lost her family to the Volturi then.

Bella told me to lie down and rest, but my mind was the problem. My body felt like a block o cement, heavy and stiff, but my anxiety triggered a fight or flight reaction in my brain. The adrenaline in my blood kept me awake all night, obsessing with scenarios where that fight could've ended less messily; or blaming me for starting it in the first place.

How are you feeling? Renesmee stayed by my side all night, holding my hand when I asked her to. Even closing my eyes was hard without her there. It felt like I was about to drown in pain, but her hand holding mine was like an anchor, pulling me back to reality.

Like I've been hit by a truck carrying an airplane on fire.

—Sorry that we only have an air mattress. After I stopped eating human food, I stopped sleeping too. Renesmee, like most half-vampires, can survive on both, but when your parents only drink animal blood, I guess it's easier to follow their diet. Her body adapted with time, and now, I can't even tell she's a half-vampire like me.

—It's all right. It's not the bed's fault. If anyone is to blame is my bran. —Thank you for letting me stay. I would've probably slept under a tree if it wasn't for her. I couldn't stay in that house in a room next to Seth's after all I said, but I had nowhere to go.

—I guess… we got some forced girl time. What do you want to do? Renesmee is searching her phone for ideas, but I can't think about her question. My mind is in a daze, and I'm exhausted. The moment I opened my eyes, all the memories came back to me, flooding my heart with pain and anxious thoughts again.

—Do you think that I… overreacted? Maybe there was no need to be angry. I was just tired, right?

—You wanna talk about boys; great.

I did, didn't I? I shouldn't have shouted like that.

—Anne, can I say something without you getting angry? Renesmee has a look on her face that reminds me of Rosalie. They can be very… alike when giving their opinions. Their honesty often hurts my feelings, and I don't need more of that now.

No.

—Fuck them. She said it anyway.

—Renesmee! Bella's voice comes from outside the room, reprimanding her potty-mouthed daughter.

—You spoke your truth without holding back, and I'm proud of you for that. My half-vampire friend playfully punches me on the arm like she's congratulating me on a well-done job.

—I was tired and angry. I didn't mean those things.

—Anne, you complain about Seth's jealousy all the time, and David left, so to hell with him too.

—I'm not going to repeat myself, Renesmee! Bella really doesn't like when Renesmee uses bad language.

But David-

—When things got hard, he bolted. And as for Seth, I don't know how you breathe when he gets like that. You can be angry, Anne. You don't have to make everyone happy all the time.

Renesmee's words may sound obvious, but they shifted something inside me. Like a light turning on inside a dark room and revealing that the scary shadows were only coats and tilted dolls. As if I realized something for the first time.

She's right. I do have the right to be angry. But is it justifiable? Hell yeah! I told Seth that David is my friend a million times! I said "I love you" to him every day, but he got jealous again the second David returned. And David is no different. He provokes Seth all the time and starts fights. Also, he left without calling, not even once! I had to go to Paris to see him and beg to get some news! Just because he came back with diamonds, he thinks all is forgiven. Fuck no!

—You are right. I can be angry. My breath gets faster as I feel the anger in me. I have the right to be selfishly angry sometimes. I was the one pushed off the edge here! I was poisoned and attacked, but I can't catch a freaking break!

—That's right! Let's forget these stupid boys for today, okay? Renesmee might be on to something.

—So, girl time, huh? What are you thinking?

—Brunch! She says, jumping excitedly. Is that her revolutionary idea? Avocado toast? Before I can question her suggestion, Renesmee drags me outside to her garden, where her idea of girl time is ready to work its magic.

I had never been to the garden behind her house before. I destroyed half of it a while ago but never noticed the broad field of plants, flowers, and trees before.

Bella enjoyed gardening too, not as much as Seth, but enough to keep the space well-maintained and the flowers fresh. She seems to like red and white flowers the most, as they spread around the sides of the house to the gazebo Renesmee so eagerly drags me to.

Renesmee got us a big table under the gazebo decorated with her favorite color: light green. Renesmee is obsessed with the color, which goes well with the flowers hanging from the wooden pillar, but it's too… monochromatic for me. The scenery is impressive, however. It feels like I'm in a secret garden filled with fairies, flowers, and… alcohol?

—You want to drink champagne at eleven a.m? Not only that. Renesmee got us cocktails and a table full of food too. —I thought you didn't like human food. All these eggs and pancakes can't be only for me.

—I don't prefer it, but I can eat it. Here. Let's toast to never crying about stupid boys ever again.

—I'll drink to that.

And so we drink—a lot. Renesmee accompanies me, eating all the avocado toasts we can fit in our stomachs and drinking margaritas once the champagne is over. We talk and laugh our heads off about silly things we did when we were young, but the thoughts return at every moment of silence. Between each breath or sip of my drink, they come back. I try to keep the conversation going, to laugh and talk more, but the shadows never disappear. They keep whispering between sips and fake smiles. Are they ok? How can I speak to them after this? I made a mistake.

—And do you know how messy he is? I mean, pick up your damn pants, Seth; it's not that hard!

—Word. I had too much to drink and started complaining, but Renesmee patiently listened. I know we agreed on not talking about boys, but…

—And David keeps correcting me with his stupid accent. I lived in London for ten years! Twice! My Brith accent is perfect! I don't need to be taught how to say "biscuits."

—Or "butter"

—Exactly! David gets unbelievably annoying when he starts nitpicking about my accent. I could punch him in the face whenever he laughs at me!

We trash-talk boys a little more, and Renesmee finally gets into it, letting out her frustrations with life.

—And the mind-reading drives me crazy! She has quite a few complaints about her parents.

I would go crazy too. I mean, you can't even have your head to yourself. Edward's talent always freaked me out the most. I can't get used to how he's always listening.

—I can't keep mine or anyone's secrets either.

—At least your dad doesn't tell anyone. Imagine if Edward was a gossiper. There would be fights in the house every day!

—Doesn't make it less embarrassing! She's right. Imagine seeing a cute guy and thinking… stuff about him with your dad listening. I would die on the spot!

—You're right. Can't Bella shield you?

—Not all the time! Renesmee is well into her rant but stops, pulling her phone out and typing something.

I thought she was looking for a new cocktail to prepare, but my phone vibrated with a message from her. I look at Renesmee, confused, but she signals me to read it.

"We should go shopping." She typed.

"Right now?" I type back, playing her secret communication game. Without Edward here, no one can hear us.

"Why not?" I could give her a million reasons.

"You know why. That's why you're texting me instead of saying it aloud. You want to sneak out." And fool her mother. A full vampire that can smell her b.s from a mile away.

"I just want to have a moment of peace. Pleaseee!" Renesmee doesn't give up. I can't say no to her.

"But how can we leave? Bella is right there." Not only that. Esme and all the girls are watching us while Adam is training. It's impossible to leave.

"I made this brunch thing up to lower their guard. They are hunting. No one but mom's around" I knew it. Renesmee is always up to something. She pretended to be interested in our conversation but was listening for the perfect chance to leave. "I'll take care of my mom. Just follow my lead."

—You two are awfully quiet. Are you done venting for the day? Bella walks into the gazebo with more food, unsuspicious of her daughter's evil plan. My phone vibrates again, and I discreetly look at it, holding back my tongue. What the fuck?

—Not yet. Anne wants to ask you for a big favor. Renesmee and Bella look at me, waiting. I put myself together, trying to keep my voice steady. Whatever. No time to chicken out now.

—Yeah. I… I need some, ahm… tampons. I hold my breath, hoping Carlisle and Esme didn't share my condition with anyone else. I should've told Renesmee sooner. I had never even had a period before in my life!

—Oh. Well, we don't have those around. Of course, she doesn't. But the good news is that Bella seems to have no idea. She thinks I actually need them.

Oh, no. Anne needs them, like, right now. You know, right, mom? You used to be human too. Renesmee's shameless act is making me embarrassed. There's no way Bella will fall for that.

—Well, the others are hunting now. I'll get you some when-

—I don't think she can wait. Renesmee looks at me, shouting for help with her eyes. I look over to Bella, waiting for my answer, with an unsuspicious face.

She's right. My… ahm, flow is pretty heavy. One sneeze, and these pants are going to the trash. I remember my friend Freya complaining about her period. She was always angry whenever she felt a sneeze coming because it felt like a faucet opened between her legs.

Bella looks at me for a moment, thinking. She doesn't believe me. I'm a half-vampire; why would I have a period? I have never had one in the years I have lived here. This was a stupid idea.

—All right. Stay here, okay? I'll be right back, and honey, if something happens-

—I'll tell you right away, mom. Don't worry. We'll wait right here. Renesmee has a better poker face than me.

I can't believe Bella bought it, but Renesmee does. The second her mother leaves, Renesmee drags me inside to steal her dad's car. I feel like I'm in a movie, looking over my shoulder at every step, waiting to be caught.

The garage has three cars lined up: a big green jeep, a black SUV, and an expensive sports model. Renesmee chooses the most expensive one, of course. She reaches for the bottom of the car, slightly lifting the whole vehicle without much effort. She removes something from under it, tossing the object to the side before getting inside.

—I don't know about this. It feels wrong to sneak out at a time like this. Everybody is worried about Adam's training, but we are running away to have fun in the city.

—Don't worry. See? I left a note. Renesmee points to the digital board on the garage wall where she typed in the most shameless letter I've ever read.

"False alarm, LoL. Anne's good, but we need to buy a few things. We'll be back soon. Love, Nessie." I'm sure Bella is going to kill us. After reading this, she will be even angrier and hunt us the second we reach the city. I know this will end badly, but I can't help but feel excited.

I never do this. I never break the rules and do whatever I want because I constantly worry about everyone in my life. This might not be the best time to be a rebel, but I need this break. Renesmee is right.

Renesmee drives way too fast through the woods, making the car jump and rock violently as we pass over the branches and rocks on the dirt road. I might die before reaching freedom.

Finally, she slows down once we get to the highway. According to Renesmee, we are now "safe." I highly doubt we will be "safe" for long, but Renesmee doesn't care. She is much more carefree than me and turns up the radio, banging her head to the beat. She set the auto-pilot to take us to Portland for "the best day of my life," according to her.

We are playing a dangerous game. Hiding from vampires is one thing, but when those vampires have incredible talents, like seeing the future, things get more complicated. I give us five minutes in Portland before Bella and Esme pick us up.

But even with all those bad possibilities floating above my head, with the alcohol still in my blood, I can't help but vibe to the song with Renesmee. I want to feel… good. More than anything, I wish not to feel this tightness in my chest. I want to breathe. And inside this safe space, with Renesmee, I finally can. Our problems look much smaller when we dance in the car, laughing at the silly dance moves we make up along the way.

Portland is as crowded as ever. It's the weekend, so everyone is out, enjoying the evening on the streets. The restaurants set up tables outside under the fairy lights floating around us, making everything more romantic.

Renesmee takes us everywhere. Bars, shops, stores. We buy some party dresses and get ready for our night out.

—We can't be looking like two homeless girls. We are dressed just fine, but Renesmee is Alice's niece. She would never leave the house without a proper fit.

She gets tight black jeans that perfectly hug her thighs and hips, making all the curves in her body smooth and perfect. She pairs it with a long-sleeve beige crop top, and I'm not gonna lie, my jaw dropped when she came out of the fitting room. Renesmee always looks stunning, but there is something about how her hair is up in a ponytail that makes her look so much more mature and… well, hot.

I would've kept my jeans and sweater, but Renesmee won't let me. She selects a tight black dress with glitter all over it. The piece looks so tiny that I'm not sure it will fit, but it looks incredible when I put it on. It has thin straps, and the cloth feels light but warm. The decolletage is just low enough to make my boobs look amazing, but I think it's too short. The dress only reaches until the middle part of my thighs, and although I feel very, very pretty, it might be… too much.

—You gotta stop saying that. You are all that, Anne. Own it. Her compliment makes me blush. I'm not used to being called pretty like this. Living in a house full of perfect vampires, I often feel dull and uninteresting, but it's not that I don't think I'm pretty; it's just… I'm shy, I guess.

I agree with Renesmee and "own it." I wear my dress and heels proudly, feeling myself as we walk around and guys break their necks to look at us.

We do everything we want. From dancing in the club to letting random guys buy us drinks and disappearing after.

We laugh and have a blast for hours, and I am sure Esme will show up anytime to take us home, but she never does. The fun goes on for so long that I'm too tired even to stand up after we leave our fourth bar.

Renesmee wants to have more fun, but I need a break. Unlike her, I don't have an infinite social battery and need to take a breather.

I would be fine just sitting on a bench, but Renesmee insists we stop at her favorite restaurant. I drag myself through the busy streets, the conversations mixing in my brain as I follow her, trying to ignore the pain in my feet.

Renesmee takes us to the tallest building I've ever seen. A vast skyscraper covered in lights coming from every floor, each so bright their light reaches the structures across the street. At the top of the enormous building, Renesmee walks us through a crowded, loud space filled with humans partying and having fun. Everyone is amazingly well dressed, and I'm glad we are appropriately dressed for a place like this.

We get a table right by the window. The breathtaking view is impressive, and the chairs are really comfy, but I still can't believe no one came for us.

—No calls? I ask for the millionth time.

—You're complaining? Renesmee says, taking a sip of her gin and tonic.

No, just… I thought we would be in trouble by now.

—I turned it off. Renesmee smiles widely, but I'm not sure I follow. —I turned it all off, silly. Our phones, the car tracker, and even Alice's visions. This was all so spontaneous that she must not even see you all night! How lucky are we?

I knew something was wrong. It's not that they didn't come for us; they can't find us. This is not good. They must know we ran away by now and must be freaking out. —We should go back home. Now. I'm starting to get a bad feeling. I don't want to be a party pooper, but we must go. Esme is going to be worried.

—Relax and enjoy the view. Dessert is on its way. Besides, Alice would find us in seconds if there were a problem.

Maybe Renesmee's right. Alice's visions never failed us before. Just relax, Anne, even if you don't know how to.

Our dessert comes out right on time. A delicious-looking strawberry tart and chocolate cake. We eat it all with a smile and take selfies in front of the windows for fun like all the other girls until I finally relax and enjoy the moment. Renesmee is right; I just need to get out of my head and have fun. We are just insanely hot girls having the time of our lives in Portland like normal teenagers.

—Thank you for this. I needed a break. I say, looking over the city with Renesmee. She still has her drink in hand for the aesthetic.

—Me too. Thank you for coming with me. I know you're not comfortable breaking the rules. It's funny how right she is.

—I'll go to the restroom. After that, we are going back home. I mean it.

—Understood, Miss Cullen. I'll wait here. And watch out for the wolves out there. Renesmee laughs, but she must not be looking forward to getting an earful from her mother. The problem is we have to return sometime. I'll also get a lecture from Esme, and I know she'll ground me again.

I cross the crowded room, politely rejecting the guys that were waiting for me to be alone to approach and try to talk. The number of times they stopped me was annoying but very good for my self-esteem, not gonna lie. But the sight of the bathroom line killed my smile right away.

About fifteen girls are lining up outside, each looking more annoyed than the other. I'm gonna explode if I stay here. I look around the room for another toilet, praying I don't pee my pants in this fancy restaurant, but there seems to be none.

I can bearly stand still. I can't hold it anymore!

Where is she coming from? As I look around the room, I spot a very relaxed-looking girl walking through an emergency exit door. She's drying her hands on her pants as if she had just washed them. She looks smart enough to have found a better option. All the other women are still lining up, and it's probably not a good idea to leave Renesmee alone, but I can't hold it. Even the possibility of relieving myself faster is enough to make me want to run to that door.

I look around, trying to look calm and composed, before taking a step to the side and sneaking in through the door. I know this girl came from an empty bathroom somewhere, and I'm determined to find it.

The door takes me to the emergency stairs, and as soon as they close, the room falls silent. Only the sound of my heels on the dusty floor echo off the walls. It's quiet and pleasant, but I have a mission. Please let there be a restroom here. I look around, waiting for my eyes to get used to the darkness, searching for a sign.

Bingo! A plaque on the wall indicates a bathroom on the floor below. Yes! I run down the stairs smiling, balancing on my heels, and opening a heavy red and noisy door to a poorly lit room. The space is vast, and there's even more dust on the walls here. Plastic wraps cover most of the floor, and long metal bars lean on the walls and the pillars, looking poorly balanced. The only light comes from the windows across the room, presenting a beautiful view of the city, almost as beautiful as the one from the restaurant.

It's clear this will be a new space for guests, and I'm sure it'll look stunning, but I have no time for this. I scan the room, sighing in relief when I spot the bathroom sign.

Unable to hold back any longer, I make my way through the messy room, carefully trying not to knock any metal bars on my head. When I finally reach my goal, I let my mind be blank for a few seconds as the stress and pressure flow out of my body. Now I'm relaxed!

When I finished, I washed my hands and realized why the girl I saw was shaking her hands dry. There are no paper towels around. Not a single sheet or air drying machine. So, I roughly dry my hands on my dress and put check myself out in the mirror. That's a small price to pay. I thought I was gonna explode.

I walk out of the restroom, waiting for my eyes to get used to the darkness again as I carefully walk through the construction materials, looking for the big red door. Renesmee must be wondering where I am, or worst. Some guy could be hitting on her, annoying the shit out of Renesmee. I wanna watch that!

—Look who's here. No. fucking. way. —What a small town. His voice freezes my heart in place, stealing the breath out of my lungs. My head is light, spinning in fear, but I need to be sure. What if I'm hearing voices again? I slowly turn around, my heart beating out of my chest. I look around the dark room and see nothing. My mind must be playing tricks on me. For a second, I breathe again. The air makes its way to my lungs, and I almost smile, but then, I meet his eyes. The voice is as real. It's as real as the sweat dripping down my back and the painful twist in my guts. Adam is right here, alone, staring at me with gleaming eyes as if he had won a game of cat and mouse.

When Bella returns home, Renesmee and Anne are gone.

Well, that's not a surprise. The note is almost funny because Bella let them "run away."

It's not the first time the half-vampire has sneaked out like this. The first time was after a fight with Jake. Bella and Edward were worried sick, but they found her pretty fast, wandering around the clothing stores in town. After she realized running out was an option, Renesmee got better. She learned to remove the tracker from the car and her phone, but Alice could still see Renesmee in her visions. It took some time, but Renesmee learned to fool Alice as well. Spontaneity was the key. The more spontaneous Renesmee was, the less Alice could see.

Bella couldn't understand why Renesmee felt the need to run away. She had everything with them, but Bella forgot an important fact. Renesmee has never lived outside their world. She was always stuck in the shadows with vampires, unable to experience everything fully.

Being a teenager is hard for humans and vampires. Renesmee developed fast, but that's only her body. Her mind was still young and full of wonder. Sometimes, not even traveling around the world was enough to calm her curiosity.

But, when Anne came around, she suddenly got a friend. A girl almost her age that understood her struggles. Having someone to talk to gave Renesmee a new look at the world. If only Anne weren't so… dangerous.

Even though Renesmee knew being around Anne often wasn't safe, they became friends. Best friends. And Bella couldn't do much about it. She loved Renesmee's excitement when she was with Anne, so Bella kept a close eye on them. Anne is very responsible and balances Renesmee's impulsive nature, but Renesmee can't understand why Anne suffers so much.

Renesmee can feel the agony in Anne's mind but does not comprehend it. Her feelings are toned down like any vampire, but Anne's aren't. The girl has her senses on overdrive. Renesmee couldn't bear to watch her friend suffer anymore and made a ridiculous excuse to cheer Anne up.

Bella knows Anne is more like a human than any of them, but she doesn't need to be a genius to know Anne can't have children.

Bella sighs loudly. This is the worst time to be rebellious.

—Bella, where are they? I thought they left with you. Esme and the others return from their hunt, but when she can't see or smell Anne, Esme scans the whole house and around the woods, but there is no sign of them.

They are shopping. Bella shows Esme her daughter's note. —I let them have some time alone.

—That's not a bad idea. I know I could use some time to relax. Rosalie is over the tension as well. She was never fond of werewolves, and having one inside their house was much more stressful than expected.

—Keep an eye on them, will you, Alice? Just to be safe. I don't want to ruin their fun. Esme would rather see Anne enjoy herself than cry in that room. The girl could let her thoughts drown her in sadness and anxiety, but Adam made it all worse. He makes her afraid in a more profound way. Anne had never experienced this kind of threat before. She might fear what can hurt her, but this is different. The feeling is like how a vampire feels when they see a shapeshifter. Something primal and much more intense. The Cullens are used to it now, but Anne isn't.

Anne is a vampire, but her emotions are too… alive. Vampires learn to calm down their senses because they only need one thing. Blood. And to get it, they must be alert and calculate their moves well. They can't get distracted by feelings, so life becomes dull when they're not hunting.

But Anne doesn't have that. She doesn't desire something so bad that she can focus all her energy on it. Her heart is fleeting, and she gets hurt easily. It could be just who she is or that this world is too much for her. They should be okay if Alice keeps an eye on them.

—Ahm… Yeah. I can't. Alice says hesitantly. This was supposed to be a problem she would only talk about after it was solved.

—What do you mean you can't? Jake isn't around. Bella asks. She knows Alice can't see shapeshifters, but this is not the case. Even if Renesmee can avoid her visions, Anne can't,

—That's not the problem. Alice is trying to find the words, but she knows how they'll react. She doesn't need visions to guess.

—That what is the problem then, dear sister? Rosalie's patience won't last much longer. Her sarcastic tone and the fake smile on her lips are a warning.

Alice runs her fingers through her long ponytail, hesitating. —Something happened… when Adam phased.

—Yeah, he poisoned Anne. We know that. Rosalie says impatiently.

I didn't want to alarm anyone in case it was temporary. I had no idea they would just take off like this. Alice's voice is gradually higher as she tries to explain her motives.

—Alice… Esme is impatient as well.

—I can't see Anne's future.

—Care to elaborate, sister? Rosalie is holding back, but Alice is not making much sense.

—Since Adam phased, I… I can't see anything. Nada.

—But she's always with Seth. Isn't that why? Bella is trying to keep calm, but Alice is looking very nervous. If she can't see Anne's future, what does that mean to the girl?

Not exactly. I could still see you jump off that cliff; I just didn't see Jake pull you out, remember? That's the same for Anne. I saw her about to die on that day. That's why I called Seth. Adam was going to kill her, but I didn't see him, only Anne's future going dark. Alice takes a brief pause, moving on to the core problem. —I thought the visions would return when she was safe, but… there's nothing. I tried everything, but I couldn't get a single image.

—And you're telling us this now? Alice, this could mean-

—Esme, I don't know what it means. Besides, I had no idea if it was just temporary. I might start seeing her any time now! Alice is being optimistic. A vision would be great right about now, however.

—Let's track them. They took Edward's car, right? Rosalie says.

—It's no use. Renesmee removed the tracker, and she turned off her phone. It's been a while since we could find her anytime we wanted. Bella sighs. Renesmee was such a sweet little girl. Who knew she would end up getting in trouble this often?

She went to Seatle last time, right? Let's try there first. Esme helped Renesmee get out of trouble the last time she did that. It was right before their trip, just a few days before Anne first came to their home. Renesmee was so bored and lonely that Bella and Edward took her on vacation before she could run away again.

—She's been quiet for so long. Since Anne came, she's never been back to Seatle. I don't think she went that far. Renesmee is reckless but not stupid. She wouldn't get that far from the city when things were this bad.

—Can't you see her, Alice? Alice might not be able to see Anne, but she may see Renesmee. Rosalie would bet all her money they are having fun in some cafe.

—Nessie knows I can't predict impulsive decisions. She's changing her mind every two seconds. Renesmee thought of everything for her little getaways. They would only reach her when she wanted to be found.

—Then let's divide into groups and go around the city. Esme is getting nervous. She trusts Renesmee, but it worries her that Alice can't see Anne's future. It could mean nothing… or everything.

—What about Seth and David? Should we tell them? I mean, they might be in Forks. Alice knows she's in trouble for not telling the truth, but she's not going down alone. She told Edward everything so she won't be the only one in hot waters when they meet the others.

—Jake is going to lose his shit. Please tell them. Rosalie is also worried but might as well have some fun. She's sure everything will be fine. Two teenage half-vampires having a blast in Portland is nothing to worry about.

—You're right, Alice. We'll need help. All the help they can get. Forks is no small town anymore, and Esme would prefer to find them before sunrise.

—I shouldn't have let them leave. Bella wanted the girls to have fun, but this turned out to be the worst decision ever.

—Don't worry. We'll find them. Esme says, hiding her worry the best she can't.

Now that they have a plan, it's time to find everyone. Esme, Bella, Rosalie, and Alice move to where the men are training Adam. They know Sam's pack isn't there, but Jake's pack will have to do. Some help is better than no help at all.

Quil and Adam are practicing when they arrive. The two are wrestling, and Adam is keeping his human form, but there is no time to praise their work.

Edward! Alice's voice calls everyone's attention. She was not supposed to be there.

Esme? Rosalie and Bella, too? Why are you all here? By Carlisle's calculations, Renesmee is alone with Anne now. That was not supposed to happen.

—Shit. Edward reads Alice's thoughts, quickly understanding the situation his daughter created.

Seth notices their presence. Something feels off. Seth can feel it in his guts for a while now. He thought it was the sight of Adam, but maybe… —What's wrong? Where's Anne? And Renesmee? Seth approaches Alice and the others, searching for Anne, but she's not there. The people supposed to protect her are here, but she isn't.

—Go ahead, dear sister. This is your time to shine. Rosalie's sarcasm is only funny to herself and Emmett. He's confused too, but shakes his head, laughing a little. Alice is nervous, touching her long ponytail, and hesitating.

—We… kind of… don't know. Alice finally speaks, shocking everyone. All the curious eyes are on her now, waiting for an explanation.

—You don't know? What the hell do you mean? David raises his voice, calling the shapeshifters' attention, especially Adam's. He remains far from the others to avoid triggers, but his ears are wide open, listening to every word.

—She and Renesmee took off somewhere. They wanted to relax, and I let them take a break alone. Bella explains, collecting her shield to explain to Edward what happened. She had good intentions, but she's to blame for all of this.

—Just the two of them? Where? Seth wants to shake Alice for an answer, but she looks as lost as him.

—Renesmee's timing is something else. Edward reads Bella's mind, and he would've done the same, but Renesmee chose the worst time to unwind.

—This is not everything. Please tell them, little sister. Rosalie's broad smile is inappropriate for this situation, but she can't help herself. The storm is just too perfect. Edward already knows what she'll say but remains quiet, waiting for Seth's reaction.

—I… can't see them. Renesmee knows how to avoid my visions, and Anne… well…

—If you stop one more bloody time! David gets increasingly impatient as Alice looks for the best way to explain.

—I can't see her future. It disappeared.

—Here you go—the icing on the cake. Rosalie's sarcasm never fails.

—What do you mean you can't? Why? Seth knows Alice can't see Anne when they are together, but Anne is far away now. Her visions were supposed to be working.

—I don't know. They disappeared, so-

—You don't know if they're safe. David completes Alice's thoughts for her.

Seth doesn't hesitate for long. Edward heard him decide before he could move, only to be blocked by Jake.

—Where are you going? Seth looks agitated, and Jake knows he'll do something reckless if he leaves now.

To find her, of course!

—Where? Alice can't see them. Are you gonna phase and walk around the city? There's no way they can find them just by walking around, but Seth seems determined to go.

—Imagine him sniffing around the streets without a collar. Quil laughs. Embry can't hold back his laughter either, but Jake's serious.

I can't sit here and do nothing. Alice said-

—We should all go then. We can cover more ground. David is worried too, but the chances of something bad happening are low. Humans are much less violent these days, and Renesmee has the powers of a vampire. He's more worried about Alice's visions.

—Relax, they're probably eating ice cream and doing girl stuff. Quil's tone is sarcastic but playful. He never misses the chance to tease Seth.

—Nessie is reckless but not stupid. She's not letting anything happen to Anne. Jake's words calm Seth down a little. He's right. Renesmee is smarter than anyone I know. She probably took Anne out to unwind and-

—Ahm… Where's the new guy? Quil's question calls everyone's attention. They all look around, but there is no sign of Adam.

—What the hell, Quil? I told you to watch him! Jake shouts angrily.

—The dude was right here, Jake.

No.

Seth's mind is running a thousand miles per hour. He shoves Jake aside, phasing and running straight to where Adam keeps his motorcycle. They let him go back home to meet his aunt so she won't be worried, and he always leaves his bike under a tree in the woods. I can't hear him!

"Calm down. He's far, but I hear him." Jake, like the others, phased and ran after Seth, hoping they could find Adam before he ran away.

"I can't believe you let the guy escape." Embry can feel Seth's despair and anger. It's so loud that it affects him too.

"No one noticed he was gone either!" Quil is embarrassed. Jake told him to watch Adam, but he got too used to trusting Sam with that task.

"Shut up! He phased back." Jake can't hear Adam anymore. The gray wolf is in his human form, probably speeding through the trees. "He can smell her."

"From this far? What the fuck is that guy?" Quil can't believe Jake. Adam's ability to find Anne is astonishing, even for Seth. He's their best tracker, but Adam was something else. "Is it because she looks human? Is it like… a way to pinpoint a vampire like her?"

—He's going for the highway! Edward can hear Adam speeding through the trees, trying to reach the road.

Seth speeds up. If Adam reaches the road, they can't follow him like this.

"There he is!" Embry shouts, running toward the motorcycle, going full speed through the mud. Adam can see them too, but he's not letting this chance go.

They run after Adam as fast as they can. Seth doesn't even avoid the branches in his way. They break when hitting his body with a loud snap; his eyes are glued to the back of Adam's helmet. "Faster. Faster. Anne."

"Seth, stop!" Jake throws his body on Seth, making him lose balance and roll on the ground. A few more meters and he would've landed in the middle of the busy road. "They'll see you."

"I don't care." Seth stands up, ready to jump into the road, but Jake stops him again.

He can track her. We can't lose him. David says. Adam knows where Anne is. That's more than any of them were able to figure out.

—Stay hidden. We'll get the cars. Carlisle and Emmett return to the house as the others follow Adam through the woods, trying to figure out a way to stop him.

This is Seth's personal nightmare. "It's happening again. I can't let it happen again."

They keep running, but it's useless. The forest's edge is right before them, and the road is full of cars. "I need to stop him."

"Aham… I think we should stop." Quil warns as the edge approaches. It would be a grand entrance to jump in the middle of traffic, but he would rather avoid being hit by the cars.

But Seth doesn't slow down. Adam is so close. "I can make it. I can stop him."

"Seth, I don't think you can" Embry wants to slow down, but his brothers keep running full speed ahead.

"Stop!" Jake orders. Seth resists, but his legs give out to his alpha's words in the end.

Adam is gone. He took the exit to the highway, and now they couldn't follow him anymore.

—Don't give up now. Carlisle is coming. Edward points to the cars slowing down by the road. Carlisle and Emmett got them a way to follow the motorcycle.

They each jump inside one of the cars, speeding through the road.

—He can't hurt shorty, right? Emmett asks, driving through the highway. —I mean, you guys have the rule-

—We do, but… Adam is different. Jake says through the speakers. He's in the car behind them, talking through the communication channel between the vehicles.

Jake doesn't want to admit it, but Adam might be able to… well, do whatever he wants. He has no pack and is clearly different from them in ways he doesn't understand, so why would Adam follow any rules? He's a rogue wolf.

—Alice. Edward is watching Alice's thoughts. She is trying to find Renesmee, but it's hard. His daughter learned how to avoid her well.

—I can see some lights. But they are all different—the night view from a tall building. I recognize Paris, London, and… Italy?

—She didn't go that far. The tallest building we know is in Seattle, but that's pretty far too. Edward knows Renesmee couldn't have gone far, and since Adam is not going to Forks, they must be in one of the neighboring cities.

—Nessie hates Seattle. Jake heard Renesmee complain about the "vibe" in that city enough times to remember.

—Then it's Portland. The Bavarian Hotel. She loves the restaurant view. We went there for our first trip. That was the first place they took Renesmee to explore the human world. Bella wanted a safe area close to home to help her daughter relax, but Renesmee could never stay in a small town forever. Ultimately, they had to take her all over the globe to satisfy her curious mind.

—I can't see him. We have to speed up. Seth is restless. He can't see Adam's motorcycle; only God knows how far ahead he is.

—I can barely hear him. Edward tries, but it's difficult to say if it's Adam's thoughts that he's listening to or just the humans inside their cars. Emmett wants to go faster, but there is a speed control on roads now. It doesn't matter how fast the car can go; once on the highway, they will never exceed the speed limit.

—Then go faster! David shouts, trying to find Adam far ahead.

—Feel free to jump over the cars, mate! Emmett is doing what he can, but the stupid car won't speed up, and he's getting anxious too. Shorty might not survive this time.

We'll make it. We have to. Seth says it aloud to calm himself down, but his whole body shakes. I haven't even apologized yet. I didn't even- No. We'll make it. I'm not losing her. I waited my whole life to meet Anne. I'm not letting her go. I'll find her; wherever she goes.

What a small town, huh? Adam's voice tightens my lungs. I can feel every nerve in my body reacting, sending fear from my head to my toes, begging me to run.

—How… I turn around slowly, forcing myself to keep standing. My legs are shaking so much I'm sure he can hear my heels hitting the dusty floor.

Adam is standing across the hall, wearing a leather jacket but no shirt. He still has his special transformation shorts on as he puts his helmet on the floor. He ran away from the others. He's here alone.

—I did like you and sneaked out. He smiles, stepping closer. My mind tells me to run, but my body can't move. —Although I didn't get all dressed up.

I look up. Renesmee is up there, but I can't call her.

—You don't want to do this. I'm pretty sure I can win over Renesmee. Adam is poisonous. It almost killed me, and Renesmee is a half-vampire too. There are so many people there. She won't hear Adam or me. She'll be safe. I wish I could say the same.

—Why are you here? What a stupid question. Why am I buying time? So I'll die a few minutes later?

—To see you, of course. I couldn't help but follow your scent. Adam takes a deep breath, approaching again. —It's just too good. I drag my feet back, moving a few metal rods on the floor. They are everywhere. I can't run here without them falling over my head.

—Well, I'm here. Play tough. What a great move.

—All alone. Adam smiles, moving again. He wants to scare me, but I can tell he's being careful, keeping a distance so he won't phase. It's impressive enough that he's keeping it together when he has the chance of his life to kill me, but he's also getting closer.

—I'm not going to beg, Adam. I wish to, but I won't. It won't work.

—That's no fun. You lie to my face and laugh behind my back for weeks just to turn me into a monster, and I can't get revenge? So this is what he wants. Revenge.

—I never lied.

—BULLSHIT! He shouts, making me freeze. —You used me to keep your secret safe. You lied and pretended to be my friend when you knew what I was going through. Adam is getting too angry. He was controlling himself, but his body shakes now as he approaches me.

—I tried to be your friend. That's true. I never laughed at Adam or intended to transform him. I just wanted to protect him from my world.

LIAR! But Adam can't see that.

I was trying to protect you. The Volturi-

—I don't care about your stupid vampire or werewolf rules! I became this monster because of you! Your life is mine! Adam's eyes are like a pit of darkness. Only his desire for revenge keeps him in human form.

—You're delusional. The anger in his eyes burns more intensely by the minute, but I can't move. I'm frozen in place, too afraid to run but too stubborn to shut up.

—You can't run from me. Wherever you go, I'll find you. You're my prey, Anne. Mine. Adam stomps my way, kicking the metal bars around like leaves.

Move. Move your useless coward. You'll die if you don't move. But I can't. I talked big in my head, saying I would fight Adam even if I had to break all the bones in my body, but I am frozen. Am I going to die?

Seth.

His face is all I can see. His smile, his tears, the touch of his hand. I'm going to lose him. Lose my family, Esme, David. I'll be alone again. A coward that couldn't fight for herself. The last words I said to the love of my life were hurtful, mean statements I said out of anger. Forgive me. I love you.

I brace for impact. I can almost feel Adam's hands on my skin, but his body suddenly flies to the side, just like that day. I can't even breathe, but I recognize him right away. It's Seth.

He jumped on top of Adam, pushing him with all his strength and hitting the tall metal beams with a loud noise. They fall heavily around them as Seth holds Adam down, pinning his arms behind his back and using his knee to keep Adam from moving. The beams keep falling, hitting Seth's shoulder and opening deep cuts on his back. The blood runs hot down his arm, but Seth doesn't move. He holds onto Adam, bending his body to hold back the pain.

Another shadow comes my way. I can see that one of the metal beams will hit my head from the corner of my eye, but once again, I'm frozen. I can only see Seth.

We meet eyes. Seth is saying something, but I can't hear it. The amount of blood running down his arm is making me dizzy. The beam is coming, but it never hits me. In a second, David appears before me. His arm brings me closer to him as he shoves the beams away from us, protecting me.

Anne! Esme. I look around, trying to see her through the dust. They are all there. The Cullens and Jake's pack.

Are you all right? David's voice sounds muffled. My mind is running slow, and I can't concentrate. —Anne! Did he hurt you? David shakes my shoulders, but my eyes move back to Seth.

Emmett and Jasper are helping him hold Adam down. Jasper seems to be using his powers on him while Emmett helps Seth stand up. He can't move his shoulder, and I can't breathe.

—David. Stop. Edward gets closer to us, telling David to let me go.

Anne! Are you- Renesmee? She must've heard the noise. —Oh, fuck.

—I told you to watch your mouth, young lady. Edward is angry, waving his finger at Renesmee.

Anne. Seth says my name. I can't hear him, but the shape of his lips tells me it's my name that he's pronouncing. He's covered in blood again because of me.

I can't hold it back anymore. The panic is coming. My throat closes up, and I can't catch my breath. Adam is struggling, shouting for Emmett to let him go, and I look into his eyes again, diving into the black shadow. I can't breathe. I can't move. I'm going to die.

I can't make out a single thought in my head. I want to run, but I can't move. I want to cry, but I can't catch my breath. Seth. Where is Seth? He's hurt because of me. If I don't die, I'm going to kill Seth. Like I killed my parents. That's the fate of the people I love. I'm going to lose them all. I'll be alone, hated by the world, until the Volturi come for me.

Let me go! Adam shouts, taking me out of my spiral long enough to see Seth come my way. He's all bloody, but he looks relieved. Why?

I step back, slipping on the scraps. David holds me, but I push him away. He's looking confused, and Edward says something, but I need to run. Why can't they see it? I'm going to die. Adam is going to kill me!

Carlisle holds my arms, pulling my wrists to call my attention, but it's useless. I can't take my eyes off Adam. Let me run! I need to run!

Edward picks me up. I kick and try to break free, but he's a vampire. I can't fight him, either. I can't do shit. I'm going to die like a coward.

I might have screamed. I can feel something in my throat as Edward puts me in the car's back seat. Esme is there. She holds my arms; I know she's there, only I can't see her. My eyes won't stop wandering around, looking for a way out of that place. I still hear him. He's coming for me.

It's all dark. My eyes are out of focus, but my body feels more relaxed. Slowly, I see it. I'm in the car, softly moving side to side. The lights passing by out the window bring me back to the present moment.

She's awake. Alice. Her voice is coming from the front seat. I look towards it and see Carlisle driving. Alice is sitting next to him, so the person beside me is…

Esme.

—Yes, sweety. I'm here. Of course, she is. Esme is always here. —Carlisle gave you a sedative. You should be feeling a little dizzy. Esme is correct. I'm lightheaded, but I can see her now. She's worried, holding my hand and touching my hair.

—She woke up too fast. Alice looks back at us. Her eyes seem tired, or maybe my vision is still blurry.

—It's her body. She never answered very well to human medicine. Carlise looks for something in the glove compartment but can't seem to find it. —That's all I had. We were lucky that I even had one in my lab coat.

How are you feeling, Anne? Esme's question brings my attention to my body. Her face was foggy before, but now it's clear. I can see every detail of her perfect eyes and smile. She reminds me of my mother. Her loving eyes. The last time I saw them…

—No! The memories hit me like a brick in my head. —He's coming! I'm going to die! I need to run! Adam. He was coming to get me. He'll eat me alive, and I'll lose everything. What if he hurts my family? I'll be alone.

—He's not coming, Anne. Calm down. Esme sounds calm. Why is she calm? Adam is out there.

—He'll never stop. He knows Renesmee is on the floor above. He'll hurt her and kill me!

—Carlisle. Esme holds me down. I can't reach the car door, but I can't stay here. If Adam comes for me, I can't let him hurt them.

—Seth! Where is Seth? He got hurt. It's my fault!

Anne! No Carlisle. There is no time. I need to-

—Amelia! When Carlisle shouts my birth name, I can't help but look at him. No one uses my birth name. —Listen to me. Can you feel it?

—Feel it? What does he mean? The fear? The urgency? The imminent death? Because I feel it all!

Esme. Can you feel her holding you? I can. As Carlisle said, Esme's arms are around me, hugging me close. —Concentrate on them. Keep your mind inside that space.

But I can't. Adam, he'll-

—No one is there but you and Esme. You're safe. That's how you always feel when Esme is with you, right? Safe. Carlisle is right. Esme is my safe house. The place where I feel like I'm home.

Esme is right here. The cold, familiar touch of her hands on my skin. Breathe. Inside this closed space, I can smell her hair more than ever. The floral scent enters my lungs and goes straight to my brain, telling me I'm home.

—That's right. Breathe. You're safe. Say it.

—I… I'm safe.

—One more time. I'm safe. Carlisle insists.

—I'm safe. Saying the words aloud makes me believe them. They calm my mind, and the urge to run is not as powerful.

—We are all safe. Carlisle's voice is calm and deep inside my head.

—We are all safe. Oh, sweet relief. The air finally goes through my lungs, and my mind feels lighter. It's far from comfortable, but at least I can breathe now.

—Good. How are you feeling? Carlisle worked his doctor magic on me without medicine. He's been a doctor for centuries, but he still surprises me with his knowledge.

—Better. Thank you, You can let go now, Esme. But she doesn't move. Esme still looks scared I'll start acting crazy again. —I promise I won't scream again.

—Scream if you need to. I'm here. You don't have to hold back with me, Anne. Never. Esme means I don't have to bottle up my feelings. I promised myself I wouldn't do it, but…

—I know. I'm just… tired. I don't know if I can… talk. Whatever made me act like this drained all my energy. My limbs are a million pounds heavier.

—You just had a panic attack, Anne. Did that ever happen before? Carlisle gave a name to my despair. So that's what you call when you feel like you're going to die and freeze in place, afraid to lose everything you love? Sounds… oversimplified.

—Not like this. I felt like I couldn't breathe before but… not like this. The pain I felt when I thought Seth would leave me for being infertile doesn't compare to this. I genuinely believed I was going to die.

We'll investigate better later. For now, take a rest. We're almost home. I take Carlisle's advice and lay my head on Esme's shoulder. Her hand on my hair brings peace to my mind but doesn't put me to sleep. I'm calmer, but I didn't forget. Adam still found me from miles away, threatened Renesmee, tried to kill me, and hurt Seth again. I don't know how, but he did it again. He took control over me, making me afraid in ways I didn't think existed. And I hate it.

Enough! Jake shouts, pushing David away from Adam. The vampire punched him so much that Adam's healing powers could not keep up.

I'm killing this bastard. David shoves Jake aside, but Emmett stops him too.

—Believe me, I understand. But not here. Emmett only heard the stories of what Anne when through with Adam. He always thought shorty was strong and stubborn, but seeing her like that reminded Emmett that Anne was not like them. She's as afraid of dying as humans are.

Get in the car. The humans will come. Edward moves Adam's body to the back seat. He's driving the new wolf back since he's less likely to hurt him. —The others run back home.

—What happened? How did he-

—I'll explain later, Renesmee. Renesmee is lost. She couldn't guess Adam would escape, but since Alice didn't come to find them by reading Anne's future, she thought they gave them space. Something doesn't feel right. Renesmee looks at her dad, asking for answers, but her mother misunderstands their exchange of looks.

—And we have a lot to talk about as well, Edward. Bella has a long list of things to go through with Edward after today.

—What did I do?

—You knew Alice couldn't see Anne's future, didn't you? How could Edward not know? Bella knew him too well. Edward never lets anything slide. He might not comment on their thoughts, but he's aware of them.

—She can't? Why? Renesmee is more confused than before. What does her mother mean?

—Later. Let's go. Bella drags Renesmee away, taking her naughty daughter home for a long talk. She did run away from home and damaged their car again. There is no way Renesmee is getting out of this with just a warning.

—Seth. Jake is hesitant to speak to Seth. The boy hasn't moved since Carlisle took Anne. Jacob has seen her in Seth's thoughts, looking like she's about to explode in agony, but that was… a lot. The screams…

—Get him out of here. If Adam stays there a minute longer, Seth can't be responsible for his actions.

—Let him go? After what he did to Anne? David is furious. He wants Adam's head. The way Anne reacted… he's never seen her like that before.

David is aware that Anne is a lot like her father. Behind John's poker face, he hid feelings he couldn't talk about. They returned to haunt John from time to time, but as full vampires, their emotions were more manageable. Nothing felt more urgent than drinking blood, so all the rest felt… smaller. But Anne didn't have this "defense mechanism." Like a human, emotions would take over her mind, and she would often be overwhelmed by them. Never like this, however.

—He didn't do that to her. Seth is doing his best, but it's hard to hold back with David playing innocent.

—What? What happened to her-

—Is because of whatever you did when you left. Seth's words hit David so hard that he's confused for a second. How could it be his fault? What did he do when he left?

Seth's eyes are the coldest, but Jasper, Emmett, Edward, Quil, Embry, Rosalie, and Jake all look at him the same way. They are all accusing eyes, blaming David for something he still can't comprehend.

The noise of the humans approaching takes the discussion to an end. The vampires and wolves spread, leaving the scene like nothing ever happened.

When they arrive, the humans will think they heard things or that the noise came from a different floor. They'll forget and move on. But for Seth, the night is just beginning.