"Marcus? What're you doing?" Adley perked up as he drove them off the high way.
He'd turned out onto a dirt road. She turned to him as the trees in front were only lit up by her Jeep's high beams. If anyone else was coming down the road they would need to four by four it into the ditch. While they weren't deep, they were still enough for flood water to be lurking from the melted snow. She wasn't exactly dressed to end up pushing her vehicle if it got flooded. She'd force him to pull it out. A perk of vampires…
She grabbed onto her holy shit handle as he pulled into a rounded drive way hitting the breaks a little too hard. She shot him a look before she turned to what they'd come upon. She stared seeing a story and a half wooden cabin. Lights were on in the porch and large windows.
"What is this place?" She questioned not looking away from the beautiful dark wood cabin. It was a beautiful resort style cabin. Something you would spend the time in camping for the summer time… if it backed onto a lake.
"One of the many properties we own." He explained. "It is nearly eleven at night, while I do not sleep, it would be best you got some. I can feel your anxiety little one."
"How sweet of you," Adley smiled as he was around to her door in a second. "I didn't bring a change of clothes."
"I do recall shopping earlier today."
"I don't think lingerie counts as back up clothes Marcus. I doubt you would mind me walking around in that, but I do not particularly wish for the guard to see me practically nude." She deadpanned while he lifted her out of the vehicle.
"You offer tempting visuals," he rasped only to her. She shuddered in his arms. "We did go to that one store Hot Topic, and you purchased quite a few shirts and trousers."
"Fair point." She grinned, knowing she really had splurged in the store. "What of tooth brushes and other hygiene necessities?"
"All inside stocked by the guard. They usually use this place as well but not currently. They are using the other cabin further on the property. They tend to enjoy the solitude."
"You thought of everything." She leant up pressing a kiss to his cheek. "I have yet to meet much of the guard, beyond Demetri, Felix, Jane, and Ibrahim."
"In time I'm sure they will introduce themselves. Currently Jane is outside."
"Jane? She's the young girl who collected us from the alley..." Adley remembered the beautiful girl. The respect she got from the room, for such a small being.
"Yes, that is her." He nodded carrying her inside once she began shivering from the nightly cold. Spring still was cold in the nighttime in Washington.
The internal cabin had high ceilings and an open concept living room and large kitchen and dining room. Stairs went up to a loft where she assumed was bedroom.
Doors across from the kitchen led off into a small hall way with three other doors. The windows made the room feel larger than it most likely was. She imagined during the day time it was a beautiful sight. He placed her on her feet.
"How old is Jane? She did not look older than a pre-teen." She murmured taking in the room before turning to him once more.
"Jane and Alec –her twin –are fourteen. They were turned by Aro almost a nine hundred years ago. We would have waited until they were eighteen if it weren't for their village." He sighed looking away briefly.
His aura filled with a slight sorrow for the two teens. Adley's gut was telling her it was not a good story. The time, their abilities… the fact they are in the Volturi they were not weak what so ever. In human form they had to have shown their gifts. She pondered.
"What did their village do?"
"It was early eleven hundred, in England. The village had superstitions imposed by the church. Europe was more superstitious then, with trials and hunts to find creatures deemed to be demonic. Twins were a bad thing. Legends of fairies and demons along with witchcraft being associated with them set the twins up for a hard time on its own. The fact they had gifts to them made them almost immediately a target of the village. Their mother protected them as she could, keeping them away from many, not sending them into town often, having them socialize only at home. It could not be avoided, and the town folk got scared especially as they aged their power reacted regarding how people treated the twins. If they were nice, good things happened if they were mean, bad things. Aro was already watching them since a nomad informed him of them. The town eventually had enough scares after a boy hurt Jane, they put them on trial and chose to burn them at the stake."
"Seriously? They were children!" Adley balled her hands up at the mere suggestion.
Marcus embraced her. He ran his hands over her back to offer some comfort. She just stared up to him taking deep breaths.
"Calm little one, it happened nearly one thousand years ago. Times were different, not as educated as they are now. People did bad things to innocent people, an unfortunate occurrence. If Aro had not had a scout on them, we would have lost the twins that night. The fire was lit when he made it to the city square. He got to Alec first. That night we almost lost Jane."
Adley shuddered at the idea of being burnt alive. Flames melting your skin. Scorching you while people watched. She frowned. How did the girl cope with the atrocities she'd endured? She wanted to hit something or scream, at the same time she wanted to wrap Jane up in a hug and tell her no one would hurt her ever again. Not while she walked the earth. She made a mental note to try and befriend the young guard.
The front door opened. Adley turned at the sound. Jane stood holding a few bags in hand without issue. She was dressed in a long black dress and dark cloak her hood up slightly covering her light brown hair. Her brow puckered but she said nothing at Adley watching her as she brought in a couple bags to the main bedroom on the bottom floor.
"Thank you, Jane, you didn't need to do that all yourself." She stepped forward to go help the girl, but there was nothing left to help with. The girl was back near the door.
Like a deer in head lights, big red eyes looked her over. Adley prodded at the bright white aura of the young girl. Fear sparked but was surrounded by major confusion. Adley bit her bottom lip. Did no one tell her this ever?
"It is no issue to serve Master Marcus and you Lady Adley."
"No need to call me Lady. I barely like students calling me Ms. Choi." She offered a grin to the small girl.
"I... I do not..." Jane's face screwed up more at the interaction.
"Be at ease Jane nothing is wrong. She merely is not accustomed to our ways."
"Oh. Alright Master Marcus."
"Forgive me Jane if I seem a little out of sorts. This is all rather new to me. A guard isn't something normal people have any more. In the future maybe you could teach me the history of the guard. About yourself, I'd enjoy getting to know you."
"I am sure Master Marcus could explain our history better than I. You needn't waste your time with small talk with me, Lady Adley..."
Jane shook her head, aura spiralling in confusion and discomfort. Adley covered her frown well with a polite smile in place trying to keep some face. The girl seemed quite averse to friends.
"I don't think it's a waste of time to get to know you or any of the guard. If you ever change your mind Jane. I'd still like to make your acquaintance. We've all eternity. If not this trip maybe when it isn't so busy."
"Alright..." Jane bowed and disappeared.
Adley's shoulders slouched as she stared after the teen. She crossed her arms over her chest pursing her lips.
"Did I say something wrong?" She asked turning to Marcus.
"Not at all, I merely think you have confused her. Jane is a very solitary girl. She keeps the company of two people on a close basis, Alec and Eleanor. She busies herself otherwise." He assured.
"She was so uncomfortable… I don't mean to pry in her private business but did the Volturi ever offer therapy to Jane? I know it's a relatively new concept, but I'm curious."
"Aro had the twins evaluated nearly fifty years ago, after a bad mood swing from Jane. It was always in question whether the age on changing a human should be raised to above sixteen. However, it would mean the destruction of the two, so fourteen it remains."
"A hard debate to hold. What is your opinion on the matter?" Adley asked.
"The development of the human brain seems to be taking longer the more society progresses. The mind is not completely done growing until twenty-five according to human hypothesis. If we chose that age, we would need to cull off quite a bit of the population of vampires. It has been proven that secrecy can be maintained if the vampires are younger, so it stays. It is still an issue of mental capacity however if immortality is suited. Say if a person had a neurodivergent brain we would need to go case by case basis. What is the mental capacity of said person?"
"Autism would it be expanded upon or hindered in transformation? A dangerous curiosity…" Adley tried her best to stifle a yawn.
An effort that seemed in vain. She stretched while covering her mouth as another pushed through her lips.
"One we have forever to come back to theorizing. You however are exhausted." He picked her up.
Adley's heart stammered as she was carried bridal style into the main floor bedroom Jane had earlier put their bags.
The bedroom was a good size, with the wooden walls, a fire place was in the corner beside a large window. Heavy curtains in burgundy were pulled shut on the large bedroom window. She doubted she could see outside now but wondered of what the sunrise would look like out of it. The bed in the center of the room a king-sized bed, the posts were solid dark wood twisted in design. Matching dark satin blankets were tucked into the made bed. She craned her neck to the right where two doors were cracked open, one dark another had a light on.
Marcus set her on her feet at the foot of the bed. She was able to see into the lit room, her eyes widened the more she saw. An on-suite bathroom, attached. She padded over to get a closer look. The floor tiles were sand stoned, and the walls of the walk-in shower were dark grey with soaps and such inside already. The rain shower head was massive in the ceiling and she smiled. Her favourite had to be the jacuzzi bath tub that comfortably fit two people, it was deep with jets.
She smiled turning to Marcus who had followed. "Okay I don't need sleep I need a bath and relaxing."
"You are barely standing on your own feet little one, are you sure?"
Adley blinked through heavy lids. "Okay…"
Her shoulders slumped while she turned. He hooked her chin bringing her gaze up to his.
"Tomorrow, you may soak and enjoy the bath as much as you wish. I will make you breakfast while you do."
"Tempting… and you would not join me?" She quirked her brow.
"Only if you wish it," he breathed, his eyes darkening from the merlot to onyx. "There is no rush."
Adley blushed, though he was considerate of her situation his emotions were all too clear to her. The barrier she had spent years creating was nothing but a light paper to him. She needn't try to prod his aura. She just knew.
He desired her. The blush red clouds swirling around him intermixed with his utter happiness. The cloud did not dissipate however it seemed to become a permanent colour to his aura the more time passed.
"I appreciate you're patience Marcus." She whispered. "These emotions their intense, and more than I've ever experienced for someone especially so new to me..."
She pressed her lips to his gently, pulling back a teasing glint in her eyes.
"I'm willing to explore them with you."
He captured her lips once more. Urgency in his kiss. Hands ran teasingly on the opening of her dress. Her attention pulled from his heated kiss, to his cool fingers trailing her lower back.
She moved back gasping he pulled her close to him. She shuddered feeling the physical effects of his desire. He was hard already. Her arms went to his neck she pulled herself closer to him. Heat pooled in her panties. The lace she was currently in was becoming uncomfortable.
"May I undress you?"
He asked trailing the kisses down her neck, his nose skimmed her sensitive skin. She nodded wishing he'd just rip it from her.
"Words little one, I will not continue without them." He warned.
"Yes."
He straightened up kissing her tenderly one hand cupping her cheek to guide her closer. She followed willingly. Her head swam with the desire crashing around her threatening to drown her. He ran his tongue over her bottom lip seeking entrance. She granted it. Cool mixed with warm as he continued kissing her. Tongue leading her in a heated dance familiar her new.
Cool fingers dropped from her cheek. She looked up through heavy lids, cheeks flushed.
He pulled back.
She pouted needing him.
"May I?"
"Yes."
The clasp undone, he lowered her sleeves. She watched taking light breaths as he stared at the fabric, watching its slow descent.
It was forever, and quick at once. The cooler room air hit her uncovered breasts.
Marcus growled lightly, her nipples hardened. She shuddered. Heart picking up pace.
Adley unzipped the side zipper.
Marcus helped push it down her hips. His fingers grazing her sides.
"I cannot tell which is a better colour on you. The dark burgundy or this blue." He breathed.
She pressed her lips wanting to duck her head, heat entered her cheeks.
"You are stunning..."
He helped her step out of the dress. His hands cupping her cheeks to kiss her again.
Adley brought her hands back to his hair.
He lifted her by her bottom pressing her into the wall of the bedroom. His hips bucked into hers. She deepened the kiss. He ran his tongue over hers leading her, seducing her.
He moved to balance her with one hand, his other hand came up tracing the dip of her waist. She shuddered moaning into him.
He was gentle. Beginning cupping her right breast. The cool sensation, caused Adley to gasp. She pulled back as his fingers moved to tweak her nipple. He leant forward catching the left brown peak in his mouth.
"Marcus." She groaned.
He swirled his tongue around it sucking the peak. He gently bit at her. Sparks of lust cascaded around her.
She thrust out hitting nothing gaining no friction in her heating core. She needed something. Touching her or in her. Her blush traveled further from her cheeks to her chest. His right hand teased her other nipple and maneuvered between pulling and gently massaging. The shocks traveled directly to her centre.
"Marcus!"
He switched and completed his slow torturous assault upon her chest. A soft rumble could be felt from his clothed chest pressed into her.
She bit back her growing pleas and moans. She realized through the storming lust, that his mere size, his hand able to cup her full breast and he was double that of her. She vaguely realized she may be developing a size kink.
Her thoughts were dragged back. In one blink he had her laying on the bed on her back. Her legs dangling off the edge no were near the ground. His shirt gone.
She was a vision of black hair all around her. Lips swollen, breathing hard while she stared waiting. Hands above her head.
He was a god sculpted of stone. While he was muscular it wasn't overly so. His defined abs she could see were bordering a six pack but he was still maintaining a human body. She stared seeing the happy trail from his navel going into his belt.
She glanced up to the posts. The bed was solid. Her bed frame was a bit more accommodating to certain things.
"Little one, I ask you now before I go to far, are you alright with this?" He asked quickly over her. His hair falling over his shoulders.
Her teeth caught her bottom lip. More than yes. She was aching, a coil needing release. He was no better in shape needing to find release. Her heart hammered as she itched to feel him.
She brought her hands up to his shoulders playing with a few of her curls.
"Yes sir."
She froze eyes widening. Shit she mentally groaned.
He quirked his brow a half grin pulling at his lips. "You're tastes, little one, they do not fall under the vanilla category do they?"
"I'm not full of experience. A few times... and one serious relationship...I've perused erotica and such."
"Pornography? It's alright to say it, I will never judge you." He murmured kissing her lips gently.
She reddened. "Yeah."
"Are you curious in BDSM?" He murmured.
"Maybe not tonight, but yes."
"Of course,"
His aura flashed with a satisfied spark. "You like the idea, of tying me up? Or is it the other side? You wish to be dominated?"
"The idea of you at my mercy, pleading for your release. It does have a certain ring to it."
"And if I want you to only think my name for a while?" She challenged.
Marcus had her hands above her head in a flash. His hand held her two wrists in an iron grip. While she was not straining above herself she knew it was futile to try and escape. Her breasts were pressed forward as he hovered above her a grin growing on his face. His other hand traveled down the expanse between the valley of her breasts to her soft stomach he paused at the waist band of her panties.
She took a sharp intake of breath.
"I believe the saying is ladies first, little one." He rasped.
His voice deepened as he pressed a heated kiss to her lips. She moaned as his hand trailed light feathery touches to her mound pausing only to trace her thighs and back up.
"I can smell your desire little one. Your need radiates off of you." He pulled back just out of reach of her.
She looked up through heavy lids, a challenging glint remained. Though her hands were restrained.
"I am not the only one," her brow quirked as she thrusted her hips upwards.
Her core knocking his waist but her body still pressed upon his covered erection.
"I ask you now little one do you wish to continue?"
"Yes sir."
"Do not move your hands. I will stop if you dare." He warned.
She nodded understanding. Despite the heady rush of anticipation and lust. She was swimming again Brian buzzing.
"Words, little one." He cooed beginning to press kisses down her jaw following a similar path towards her breasts.
"Yes sir." She ground out.
He caught a nipple between his lips giving it a tug. She yelped. His other hand on her opposite nipple. He switched but did not linger. He began to lower towards her navel. She shuddered feeling cool hands begin to memorize her soft curves and slight soft stomach.
His fingers curled into her waistband. Onyx eyes met hers she nodded gasping when he shred them. The material was gone in a blink of an eye.
A fresh rush to her core as he did. He lowered his mouth to above her mound. She had tidied pubic hair herself thankfully the few days before. He kissed down her sides skipping where the throbbing had been steadily building. He continued down to her thighs opening them further for himself.
She groaned. It was fevered she swore it. Had his fingers grazed her already wet folds. She tossed her head back grabbing at the sheets. She'd promised not to grab his head.
"I need..."
"What little one,"
"You Marcus, please just touch me." She whined.
"Patience,"
She huffed. Throwing her head back cheeks burning. She tried to get any friction but he held her still.
"Ah!"
She looked down immediately. She tried to wiggle away but Marcus just nipped at her inner thigh.
Cool fingers traced the outer line of her folds. She shuddered at the temperature difference. He was so icy, in her sensitive area.
Marcus traced circuits up and down her vulva. He slowly moved inwards.
Gasps fell from her lips. She needed more. It wasn't enough. She opened and closed her hands trying to control herself. How badly she just wanted to relieve the pressure on her clit, each heart beat throbbing.
"Relax,"
He whispered circling her clit. He dipped his fingers over her opening coating his fingers to allow for easier movement. He ran lubricated fingers over her clit moving in a clock wise motion.
She gasped.
"That's it darling."
He increased pressure.
She let her eyes flutter shut. Hands pulling at the sheets below her.
Her mind fogged over with increased pressure and increasing speed. He held her still.
"Marcus!"
She yelped.
The temperature change shot through her from the heat below to his icy tongue.
He didn't let up as he pushed her higher and higher. She was approaching that edge of bliss so fast. Adley took shallow breaths trying her best not to scream. It was a losing battle.
"Marcus."
Bliss.
Satisfaction. Desire. Her core pulsed in her post orgasm moment. She was red lips swollen, panting.
Marcus kissed his way back up her pulling her into his arms. She leant back shaking. Legs rubbed together she shuddered.
"I —" she met his onyx gaze. "You should come with a warning label. Could die from orgasm."
Marcus chuckled kissing her cheek before capturing her lips once more. She twisted in his grip.
"May I return the favour?" She asked.
He pulled back. "Another time, Little one this was about you for now. Another thing to work on."
She paused pulling back. Had she done something wrong? She about asked when he shook his head.
Aura sparked. She looked down seeing his pants no longer tented. She understood.
Morning poured in from the window, curtains slightly opened. She stretched all her limbs out not caring that the blanket was down at her hips or that her night shirt had risen up to just below her chest.
She exhaled loudly pulling herself into a ball and tossing the blanket back over herself. A firm body was beside her smelling of books and old spice cologne. She hummed smiling eyes closed smooshing her face into Marcus' chest.
"You slumber like a feline darling," he chuckled.
Adley grumbled pulling back not wanting to move from his side. The golden aura surrounding her vision. The utter content of just being there.
"It is nearly eleven in the morning of a Sunday, surely you wish to greet the day." He ran his hand down her covered back.
She pulled back enough to glare up at him. She squished her nose and face up not breaking from her glare.
"Permit me the luxury that is sleeping in on a Sunday. I can count the number of Sunday's I have slept in. In my twenty three years..."
Adley paused, propping herself up on her elbows.
"What day is it?"
"You just stated." Marcus replied.
"Smart ass not what I meant." She huffed. "The date, day of the month..."
"It is the second of April."
"Oh good." She sighed flopping back down into the pillow.
"Why the panic?" He asked turning onto his side.
His hand landed on her stomach and she grabbed hold of his cool fingers.
"My birthday is April tenth. Which is not this Monday but the next. Meaning I am expected to be in Seattle for it. Spring break is also that week with Easter Monday the following on the sixteenth..." she mentally ran through the calendar. "In my family it's always been a big celebration for birthdays. Family events. It's never a small gathering usually extended family, friends."
"That is plenty to look forward to, something I will keep in mind. In the future we will need to book plan tickets and such." He mentally noted.
"Really?" She met his gaze.
"I would not keep you from your family in the time you do have with them. We may be earth bound, they are not."
Her heart swelled and she smiled leaning in to press a kiss to his lips. She meant it to be quick.
Marcus had other thoughts. He brought her up to straddle his lap. Holding her close. She relaxed running her tongue over his bottom lip seeking entrance.
*Ring*
Adley broke away with a groan. She looked over to the side table closest to her. There her silver flip phone sat ringing. She glared at the offending object.
Who in their right mind was calling at this time, cock blocking her.
She huffed pushing her bangs back taking a steadying breath. No one needed to hear her out of breath. She grabbed the damn thing flipping it open.
"Hello?"
"Addie it's Oma, I'm just out with Anna. We had a few questions for you."
She could here the bustling of the mall around her. She pinched the bridge of her nose. She slid off of him with an apologetic look. She wasn't about to continue doing what they were with her mother on the phone.
"What would those questions be Oma?"
"Anna is insistent on finding out your cake preferences. I would say venue is most important… I do not need to confirm if Adley will be here Anna, she will always come to her birthday celebrations…"
Adley chuckled shaking her head at the bickering of her Oma and older sister. First to move out of the city and never far from family. She wouldn't trade them for the world, even if she eventually moved across the world. She wanted to be near her family.
"Tell Anna I am coming down next weekend obviously. The spring break will be nice to spend with family."
"Told you," Oma snipped to her sister. "Now for your party, I am making sure Anna brings her friends and such so we can find you someone. I worry for you all alone over there in Forks."
Her cheeks warmed as she looked over to Marcus who was sitting watching her. Able to hear it all. His brow raised.
"Don't do that Oma. I don't need you to play match maker."
"You are twenty four soon and no partner in sight Adley. I don't care if it's a man or woman. I want you to be happy and cared for."
Adley sighed turning away red faced. "While I appreciate the unconditional acceptance Oma. I just don't need you to do that..."
"You found someone."
It wasn't a question.
Adley silently cursed. How in the fuck did she know? She'd only dismissed her. They are over three hours away. Aunt Janet had to be wrong on the assessment she was the more powerful Empath. Oma was crazy good.
"How—"
"I am not as in tune with emotions as you dear, but I know when my daughter sighs with love. Call it 'mother always knows'. You're in love."
It hit her.
"You spoke to Aunt Janet… Yes Oma… I am seeing someone."
"My older sister is gossip... This is more than just seeing." Oma teased.
"It is."
"When did this occur?"
"A week or so. It's a complicated situation Oma."
"Ah best unsaid. Got it. Now is said man going to come down for your birthday? He should be warned if he doesn't come meet us, our souls will linger and haunt him."
The light toned threat was very frank. Adley blushed, her parents would make sure they did haunt her in someway. Immortality would be a hindrance where her parents were concerned.
"Yes Oma, Marcus will come with me next weekend."
"Good! We will see you then. I know just the place to hold such a special birthday. Love you Addie. Enjoy your Sunday. — oh Anna says cake flavour."
"Chocolate, red velvet, Black Forest, strawberry. Surprise me." She laughed as the line cut off.
She set the phone back on the side table before flopping back on her bed. She ran her hands over her face groaning.
"It seems you will be meeting my parents sooner than expected. Next weekend. I'm so sorry."
"What is there to apologize for? We would meet eventually." Marcus reminded.
She opened her eyes to look up at him. "It will be an interrogation. My family can be overbearing especially when it comes to me. You aren't just dealing with protective parents but my siblings and extended family too. If it's a huge venue you are looking at least fifty people."
"Then it is a battle I will willingly face. To prove myself to them, worthy of their daughter." He pressed a kiss to her forehead holding her.
"You're not nervous at all?"
"You are the Empath," he smiled teasing her.
She studied his aura. All she could see was a soft swirling of adoration and golden happiness. He was also experiencing pride and love but not a single negative emotion flowed through him currently. She nestled into his chest.
"I'm surprised, the last relationship I was in he feared meeting my parents and put it off for seven months." She murmured.
"If they cannot bare your family they do not deserve you." He whispered pressing a kiss to her lips.
She nodded nesting back into his side letting her eyes flutter shut for some bit longer.
Adley was back in classes that week as normal. With her students as much as she could. Only difference being she had more joy going home. The house no longer was empty when she pulled up. In fact Marcus was usually close by. The ache in her chest was a little pain if too far but she ignored the pulling.
Wednesday came around and she was stretching as the final bell went. Bella stormed over to to her. Arms crossed. She zeroed in on the hand currently in a brace.
Adley tensed standing from her chair she looked behind her to Edward. Checking his aura a shifting fear and irritation rolled in the teenager. She went to Bella who was at her desk miserable.
"What has happened?" She demanded, her eyes zeroed in on the bandage that was wrapped upon the girls right hand.
"She punched a werewolf." Edward stated curtly.
"Shut up about it." Bella snapped. "I'm so tired of the two of you!"
"Woah, enough. Back up the anger here. I'm confused." Adley sent waves of calm to Bella.
She put her hands on the girls shoulders having Bella take deep breaths.
"Okay, now. Bella why did you Punch a werewolf? When did you punch a werewolf. Why am I just finding out about this?"
Bella's bottom lip quivered cheeks red with tears in her eyes. "I just was busy and it didn't come up until really now. The fighting is getting too much. The punch, happened this past weekend. I went down to La Push to see Jacob, we were talking about stuff in general. Simple things... he got on the topic of imprinting and other members in the pack who had had this happen. He began talking about me being with a vampire why we couldn't be friends if I was with Edward. I said why. He said he loved me then tried to kiss me—"
Adley held her hand up to Bella cutting her off. Her vision was tinting with red. "Let me get this straight Jacob touched you without your permission. You tried to punch him?"
"It was a jerk reaction I'm to blame thinking I could punch a werewolf it was like punching Edward. Solid and busted my knuckles."
"Don't you dare make excuses for his actions. He is the one in the wrong here. Let me make that clear. Two I think it's time you stop being friends with Jacob Black for a while he's not a positive influence in your life if he cannot see past his own feelings. He is not entitled to your feelings when you feel nothing but friendship for him. If he cannot respect that then end it. That is an ultimatum you are allowed to stick with. Understand me?"
Bella nodded. "Yes. Even if he makes me happy?"
"Oh well Bella. Sometimes we need to make hard decisions of who gets to stay in our lives. Cut the strings if he cannot accept this. Your mental health is only just healing."
"That is what I've been trying to tell her. Thank you." Edward commented. "He is not safe to be around and absolutely irrational—D"
Adley whirled around. "No, no, no. You do not come into my classroom and interrupt me, with shit about irrational and unsafe. You are a fucking moron. We only keep you around because of the whole soulmate shit. Bella is an adult and can choose to be friends with who ever she wants and you will fucking respect that. Got it?"
Edward's eyes dilated as Adley pushed her threat at the kid. In waves of fear she pressed forward. He nodded immediately.
She smiled patting his shoulder. "Good boy. Now Bella give me Jacob's address I have some visiting to do."
Adley gave a toothy grin grinned stepping up to the teen again grabbing a pen and paper from her desk.
"What are you going to do?" Bella demanded.
"Nothing I just want to talk. I'm not strong enough to hurt him..."
Bella raised her brow. "You had Edward screaming and spazzing from your abilities."
"He's a grown vampire, Jacob has a heart beat. I promise not to use my ability on him." She held her hand up.
"Now his address."
"I'm coming with you."
"You don't trust me Bella?" Adley blinked a few times.
"I trust you, but not with sweet words and false comfort. You're plotting."
"Goddamn smart girl. I won't hurt him. I just want to talk with the kid."
"I don't believe you."
"Edward tell her." Adley rolled her eyes looking to the vampire.
Amber eyes settled on her dark gaze. Bella turned to Edward who stood arms crossed.
'Tell her anything of what I actually plan to do and I will find a flamethrower.'
"What are you planning?"
Adley frowned. 'I'm not going to punch the kid but I may or may not force emotions into him and tell his parents and threaten him with a restraining order...'
Edward cracked a half smile. He looked to Bella. "She's only going to talk with him and his dad. Ms. Choi is right, what Jacob did was not right and is very serious."
"You're not telling me everything."
'I swear I'm the Empath but she's a lie detector.' Adley shook her head before directing Bella a step back so she could grab her stuff.
"I'll meet you later tonight Bella. I cannot go to La Push." He met her questioning gaze. "Treaty."
Adley nodded and finished up before motioning Bella to follow to her vehicle. She quickly explained to Ibrahim that she would be an hour late or so home tonight and to let Marcus know. Her guard eyed her over but did not question the woman.
Bella barely had her seatbelt done up in the Jeep when she went zipping down the highway ignoring the speed limit. Her radio blasting Blink-182.
"Want to slow down?"
"Not really."
"Charlie won't hesitate to pull you over."
"Charlie will escort me with sirens when he finds out." She shot the teen a look but did slow down a few miles.
The drive only took twenty minutes as Bella pointed out the red bungalow with a ramp going up to it. She parked in the gravel driveway behind an old Volkswagen Rabbit.
Adley had barely parked when she jumped out hurrying up the stairs. Bella was huffing when she rang the doorbell.
"Seriously Adley you don't need to do this."
"I do." She eyed over the teen.
The door opened to a russet man in a wheel chair. Adley recognized the face of Billy Black one of Charlie's friends she'd seen before. They'd spoken once or twice in the diner.
"Ms. Choi, what brings you to my home?" Billy greeted wheeling back. He glanced at the anxious teen.
"Please Mr. Black call me Adley. May we come in?"
"I don't see why not, call me Billy. Bella good to see you again. Jacob is out." He explained while leading them inside.
The floors were wooden but she still kicked off her shoes and pestered Bella to do the same. In socks they followed Billy. He escorted them into the cozy kitchen that had a nook with a round table and two chairs. Room for his wheel chair. He motioned for them to sit.
"So what brings you around?"
"Uhm..." Bella looked to Adley.
She kept a smile on her face. "We came to discuss an occurrence from this weekend. Bella here has been scared to speak about it much until today. I asked her what was wrong and allegedly your son kissed her without consent."
Billy's brow furrowed at that. "I was not made aware of this... Bella why would you not come to me?"
"I didn't... Because I punched Jake in response..." she blushed lifting her hand.
"It still doesn't make Jake's actions right. I'm sorry Bella that happened. Adley thank you for bringing this to my attention. I'll speak with the boy."
"May I make a suggestion?"
"Alright..." Billy hedged.
"While it is appreciated that you do care for Bella enough to apologize, the thing is, you did nothing wrong. It would be best if Jacob apologizes to Bella. She is quite uncomfortable being around him currently."
"Bella, you know Jake wouldn't hurt you right? I'm sure it wasn't intentional..."
"Bella did you say no?"
"I did." She croaked.
"Then there is the answer there. She said no, he intentionally did not listen to consent. I'm sure there is a way to contact him and have him apologize. Less we need to involve Charlie. Considering if he finds out why his daughter's hand is bruised and in a brace surely he'll be upset. Charges may get laid."
"She threw the punch. Her injuries are her own fault."
Adley turned to the hall beside the kitchen. There arms crossed and bare chested Jacob Black stood. He wore Jean shorts and shoes. Adley scrunched her nose up. The red in her vision flared. The disrespectful teen. How dare he on the floor! Where his father could end up with stuff on his chair ruining it and other things. The ignorant ass wasn't going to understand delicate that was painfully obvious.
"I highly suggest you lose the attitude boy." Billy warned.
"What her injuries are is self defence any cop, or jury would see that. Not just because you are a shifter Jacob. You are massive compared to Bella. Muscular and built, you are over six foot where as Bella is barely five four, and one hundred and ten pounds soaking wet. Not to mention her struggle to be above one hundred the last three months making her bones most likely weak as hell. She told you no." Adley ranted not raising her voice as her anger simmered over. She directed the emotions toward the teen.
Jacob's mouth fell open as he swayed. The impact wash over him.
"Adley!"
Bella smacked her shoulder. "You said you wouldn't."
"Shit, sorry." Adley broke her concentration. "Anyways. I suggest from now on Jacob you either think this over and apologize and realize what you did, or Bella will be speaking to Charlie and charges will be pressed."
"Is that a threat?" Jacob stepped forward.
Adley stood from her chair. "It's a fucking promise. Just because you have feelings for her does not entitle you to try and force Bella to feel the same. Can you not see she was mourning her soulmate. She can't reject him. It's too far gone. She told you her feelings so stop trying to make her reject him and force yourself on her. If you think your actions were so innocent, then apologize and mean it. So either suck your small ego back in and be a friend. Just a friend as in platonic, and don't act like an Incel."
"Edward is not good for her. He's a blood sucking leech."
"You're an over grown dog. Who gaslights girls and gets petty when they don't return your feelings. I suggest you fix yourself before you catch a case. This mentality is what leads to rapists."
"I wouldn't do that! I would never. Bella you know that right?"
"You ignored me telling you no Jake."
"I'm sorry Bella. While I'm not a fan of your choices—"
"No ultimatums you don't get to do that. Give Bella some space now and let her decide whether she wants to be your friend still. Thank you Billy for your time. Jacob you better reflect." She took hold of Bella's good hand and guided her to be in front of her to go get her shoes on.
Billy touched her arm. Adley turned to the man in the chair. He was tight lipped and confused.
"How do you know of the shifting? Vampires and that?" He asked.
"Your son saved Bella from that vampire. The local pack also watched me be drained by said vampire. We all have our secrets Billy." She smirked.
"You're a vampire?" He asked not sure of his words.
"Nope, still working on what I am actually. Not sure. All we know is I don't die." She shrugged. "I have to make sure she gets home safe anyways. Be safe Billy. Jacob get to thinking and repenting."
She waved good bye leaving the two males standing distraught and confused. She slid her shoes on and got Bella into her truck. When they began down the road Bella found her voice.
"What the hell?"
"That is standing up for yourself. A lesson for you. You don't need to conform yourself, to appease men and people in your life. He crossed a very serious line Bella and I hope you get that. Now I'm sure he'll take his actions more seriously." She shrugged.
Bella shook her head leaning back. "You're scary at times."
"I've heard that before." She laughed. "Now to better topics, what are you planning for spring break?"
"Uh... I was actually going to fly down to Jacksonville to see my Mom. Before the Cullen's left I got tickets to fly there for my birthday."
"Oh... interesting gifts, are you excited to see your mother?" She asked.
"A bit. It's been a year or so, we weren't the closest but we got along. She's a bit hair-brained and scattered. So focused on one thing for a little than moving on."
"Ah, I see. Are you going alone?"
"Edward is coming..."
"Are you comfortable with that?"
"I think so." She nodded.
"If you need rescuing you can always call." Adley assured.
"I'll hold you to that." Bella smiled sitting back. "What about you?"
"I'm going to be in Seattle. My birthday is Monday so the weekend will be a party with everyone... Well after the interrogation of Marcus. I slipped and told Oma about it my sister was with her so the family will know by the end of the week. She knew already though due to my aunt who we saw over last weekend."
"Your aunt knew?"
"She apparently has been working for the Volturi for sometime. I know weird, the fact they were looking into my abilities is still kind of odd. She met Marcus and guessed we were together. Hard for her to miss when she's an Empath too. Not as powerful but in her own right. So should be fun. Did you want to come to the party, before leaving for Jacksonville. Let loose."
Bella paused but nodded. "I'd love to. I'll tell Edward to book for Sunday noon to fly out."
"Great, I'm sure Oma will be excited to see you." She pulled into the drive way of her home. "Now are you coming in for dinner or headed home?"
"Dinner obviously. I'll take some home for Charlie." Bella grinned grabbing her bag and heading in. "Plus you promised me Buffy!"
Adley laughed entering her home where Marcus and Ibrahim greeted them. She gave the run down while she went and changed into sweat pants and a loose DC comic graphic tee. She washed her hands before pulling out some shrimp and other fish.
"You ever had octopus?" Adley asked Bella who was up washing hands to help.
The teen pursed her lips before slowly shaking her head.
"You'll love it! Come on I'll show you."
They cooked up a storm and set some aside for Charlie who was over at the reservation still spending time with a certain Sue Clearwater. She'd missed their Wednesday morning at the diner but the man was excited to see the widow. While he did not see it, Marcus had placed a bet on them ending up together, something about them having a soul connection. She wanted to encourage the relation ship even if it was friendship for a while.
"Evening, what trouble did you get up to?" Marcus asked while watching her move the squid around in her wok.
The sizzling was loud enough to muffle their words.
"I don't get in trouble."
"Ibrahim told me you were on a roll. Even Mr. Cullen seemed to be fearful."
Adley chuckled cracking a grin. "Okay I may have threatened an asshole."
"I see, do not make me need to step in." He whispered in her ear.
Adley shuddered but leant back pressing a kiss to his cheek. He went to take a seat. Ibrahim she noted was standing across from Bella arms crossed.
"Spike is an asshole!" Bella argued.
"He's hot."
"They both are but still Buffy definitely belongs with Angel."
"Spike and Angel are both bad for her." Adley scoffed stepping away while both just stared.
She laughed finishing up cooking so they could settle in and watch Buffy before the argument got too far along.