I believe this is the chapter I edited the most.
I looked up at her announcement to see we were now on a little dirt road headed for the beach parking lot. A roaring fire caught my attention as she pulled into a spot, and her car caught the attention of most of the wolves around the fire. Before I noticed she was no longer in the car she had my door open for me. I took her warm hand lacing our fingers as she pulled me out. I led her toward the beach smiling as their eyes widened. "Bella!" my hand was ripped from hers as I was engulfed into huge arms and spun around. "Jake put me down!" he set me down with a grin, turning toward Catt I catch the small smile on her face but notice she looked a little nervous, must be worried the wolves can tell she's not human. "Sorry bells, just excited to see you."
"Yah yah it's good to see you to. Catt this is my best friend Jake, this is Catt."
"It's nice to meet you Jake, Isabella speaks of you often." I blushed at the look he sent me before smiling at her, "It's nice to meet you to, it's good to see the reason Bella has been smiling again." A slight blush on her face she scratched the back of her neck, but her voice was steady, "she has a beautiful smile, would be a shame if she didn't show it off." My own face warmed with a blush as I reached for her hand with a smile, Jakes smile turned to a grin as Leah's voice reached me, "Awww that was so sweet I totally approve." She bound over to us and wrapped a surprised Catt into her arms, "it's great to finally meet Bella's girlfriend." Both of our blushes came back tenfold as we shared a look but neither of us said anything in denial. "This is Jakes girlfriend Leah, Leah this is Catt."
"Catt, awesome, it's nice to meet you. Come one guys Seth saved us some seats over there." We followed her over toward the fire, introducing her as we headed for Seth and Paul. We watched as Sam told the "stories" of their people, Catt had a frown on her face as she listened to him speak of their tribe and their enemies while they tried to play it off as a story, her knowing it wasn't.
We left a little after the sun had set as I had school in the morning. As she drove her hand was firmly in mine and her thumb rubbed circles on it, "Are you ok Catt." Maybe meeting my friends was too much so soon, I mean it was our first date. Or maybe it was the girlfriend thing. "I'm fine hun, the wolves, their just…" she trailed off with a shake of her head. "Was it too much? Meeting them I mean?" she turned her wide eyes to me before squeezing my hand, "No, no that wasn't it, it's just, they have everything so backwards!" I nearly jump at her outburst. "What do you mean?"
"Everything. I mean- they think they shift because of vampires. It's ridiculous. They think they are sworn enemies and they were made to kill them. They are told these lies from the beginning, so I do not blame them, but surely they are not all so foolish." She shook her head in disgust. "They think they exist to protect humans from the monsters they think vampires are for crying out loud!"
"I take it you think they are wrong?"
"Think? Bella I have walked this earth for over 2000 years, I know damn well they are wrong. I have seen the creation of the first, I know a vampires purpose, tis a purpose long forgotten but still a purpose. These wolves hold such honor in their stories not knowing there are monsters among every kind."
"what?" she let out a little sigh, "I have lived long enough to learn not to hold judgment on an entire species for the acts of a few. Yes some vampires are exactly as your wolves described, they kill without mercy, without conscience, but I have seen the same in these wolves as well. I have seen shifters tear villages apart, leaving no survivors, for no reason other than the fact that they could." My eyes widened at her words, "Maybe someday you can set them straight then." She pulled into my driveway and regarded me curiously, "perhaps." Was all she said as she got out and came around for my door. She walked me up to the porch still lost in her mind. "I had a good time today." She finally looked up at me a smile lighting up her face, "As did I, if you're not-opposed, I would very much like to do this again?" I smiled at how adorable she was, "I would like that."
"great! Good-good, well then uhhh goodnight Bella."
"goodnight Catt" I murmured as I backed toward the door. I watched her make it to her car before she spun around lightening fast "wait!" she took the steps two at a time before her hand came up to brush my hair out of my face, her other fell to my waist, "please don't slap me" she murmured right before her lips pressed to mine. They were incredibly soft and so very warm, she pulled me even closer when her hand went to the back of my neck tilting my head as her tongue swiped my bottom lip. She pulled away before I could grant her access, resting her forehead against mine she we panted for breath, when I opened my eyes hers were still closed. When they finally opened yellow was still fading to green, "Goodnight Isabella."
"night." I whispered long after she had driven off, the feeling of her lips on mine engrained in my mind. "hey bells that you?" I jumped at my father's voice, "yah dad its me."
"how was your date?"
"It was great da-wait what!"
"I'm your father Bella, and a cop. Plus I saw the kiss." I looked at my father shocked, and to my relief he had no disgust or disappointment on his face, he just looked amused. "come sit down with your old man for a minute." I did as I was asked still speechless. "you seem pretty happy with her."
"I am."
"does she know about what happened with-him."
"yes, she was, not happy."
"That girl has it bad for you."
"what makes you say that?"
"well, she made the drive from Port Angeles. She opened the door for you-yes I was looking out the window I am still your father. And she kissed you. But what about you?"
"I-I really like her dad. She makes everything better, makes me forget anything I ever felt for him. She is so much better than him, but we have barely met and what I feel for her-it scares me."
"I understand that sweetheart. But I just met her, and I can tell, I don't think she would pressure you into anything you're not ready for, just take it slow and if she is as crazy about you as I think, she won't mind. There is one thing that concerns me though. How old is she?"
"She is only 23."
"only 23? That is 5 years older than you Bella. I won't pretend to like that. But I like her, so for now, you have my blessing."
"thanks dad. I think I'm going to head up to bed, you know school tomorrow."
"night bells"
When I got upstairs I took a shower and did my usual routine for getting ready for bed before I checked my phone. There was messages from Jake and Paul talking about how hot she was and asking us to film us making out, Seth send a congratulations and an apology for his mate and Jakes messages, Leah sent a message that pretty much was the same as what my dad had just said, she was crazy about me. I then checked the messages from Catt,
Catt: I am truly sorry if I over stepped my bounds.
Catt: Also thank you for not slapping me.
Me: LOL don't worry about it I wouldn't have slapped you. And you didn't, overstep that is. I was surprised but definitely enjoyed it.
I hit send before I could chicken out and waited for her reply, it came almost instantly.
Catt: Oh thank the goddess, I was worried I had. I am glad you enjoyed it I will be sure to do so again then. If there are no objections?
Me: No objections.
Catt: Great! Well I suppose I shall let you sleep for school tomorrow. Goodnight Isabella.
Another message popped up before I could reply,
Catt: Wait!
Catt: I almost forgot, when your friend Leah called me your girlfriend, you did not correct her.
Me: neither did you.
Catt: No I suppose I did not.
Catt: Is that something you would be interested in?
Me: being you girlfriend?
Catt: Aye
Me: I wouldn't be opposed to being asked. I sent the message with what little nerve I had left and waited 5 nerve racking minutes just laying there for a reply.
Catt: Then I shall ask, but not now. That is something I will do in person. Goodnight Isabella, I do so hope you have a good day at school.
Me: goodnight Catt.
I woke up to the sound of my alarm blaring and rolled out of bed for school. Hopping in my truck I navigate the wed roads toward the high school. Once I pulled into a spot I cut the engine and grabbed my phone and headphones noticing a message form Catt.
Catt: Good morning beautiful.
Catt: sorry I know im blowing up your phone just wanted to wish you a good day at school.
Me: you don't have to say sorry, I don't mind you blowing up my phone and thank you.
Catt:
I nearly jumped through the roof when someone knocked on the window.
Looking out I see Lauren standing there in the rain with a small smile so unlike her. I open the door to let her in. "thanks" she mumbled as she removed her hood. "no problem. What's up."
"many things" she answered as she took in all of the stares at her return as well as the fact that she was sitting in the car of someone we all thought she hated. "I want to apologize to you." Wait what now. "huh?"
"when you first got here. I treated you like crap, and I had no reason to do that. I was jealous if the attention you were getting. Of how easy it seemed for you, and that's no reason to do what I did. So, I'm sorry." Well damn that's definitely not what I expected, but it seemed like she truly meant it. "It's ok Lauren." She sent me a sad smile, "no, it really isn't, but thank you for being so understanding."
"you know this side of you isn't that bad." I joked with a bump to her shoulder, she let out a snort, "yahyah just don't tell anyone."
"Promise."
"so now that we are friends. Wana tell me what's up with miss hotty you were with yesterday?" I let out a groan and launched into an explanation, she had left even before the Cullen's so we had a lot to catch up on. It felt natural talking to here, like we had always been friends, we walked to class together gaining all sorts of looks. And I spent the day ignoring questions from Mike and Jessica about the "hot biker chick that picked you up".
I had asked Lauren if she wanted to sit with the usual but she declined saying she didn't really like them that much. So we opted to catch up some more and sit by ourselves.
Catt POV
I laid in bed staring at the ceiling for what felt like hours.I could not get this human, my human out of my head. I know most of it was the bond she had with my beast, but I couldn't blame it all on that. There was just something about her that drew me in, not just the panther. Goddess I hope I didn't scare her off, I mean that kiss, well I kissed her she didn't really kiss me back, but she didn't push me away either. And she didn't correct her friend when she called me her girlfriend. Is that something I even want? Yes. "Ugh dammit Saphira it's something you want!" Yes. But you want her as well, we are still one child. "I know, I know Saphira, I just, am feeling what I'm feeling, or what you are feeling." We feel what we feel Child. "Ugh how am I even supposed to explain you to her!" there was no answer, I could feel her in the back of mind, but she was silent, "sure, now you ignore me." I roll over and bury myself into my pillow, I had not bothered to get up today choosing to stay in bed. I spent the next 30 minutes trying not to text her while thinking about what she said about the wolves and setting them straight.
I quickly throw the covers off of me with the decision made. I throw on some jeans and a tank top before grabbing my jacket and helmet. Before I have time to convince myself otherwise, I'm flying down the highway on my bike headed for La Push reservation. I drove by the empty high school parking lot knowing she was inside there somewhere. It wasn't until I hit the reservation that I slowed down and Saphira made an appearance. What are you doing. I decided it was my turn to ignore her knowing she was not a fan of their kind. And them being what they are I figured they wouldn't be in school, and I was right, Bella's friend Jake was sitting on a log staring out at the water. I shut off my bike and made my way over toward him silently, he jumped at the sound of my voice "am I interrupting?"
"Catt, no, no. Is Bella ok?" I smile at how protective he seems of her. "She's fine, well as fine as anyone can be in high school." He let out a little chuckle, "may I join you?"
"Of course. Something on your mind."
"Yes actually. Your stories." He tensed immediately, "Relax Jacob, I am no enemy here. But there are things in your story I disagree with if you will."
"such as?"
"for starters, your hatred of the Cullen's, does it stem from what they did to someone you consider a sister, or from what they are?" he completely froze, "Did Bella tell you?" I could practically hear his heartbreak at a betrayal from her. "No, just as she did not tell you I am not human." His eyes widen as I change mine to prove it. He nodded his head a few times, "this is something we should bring to Sam, he is our Alpha." I couldn't stop the snort, "No. He is a boy playing a role, I can tell the difference he is not the true alpha is he. That power resides in you."
"How do you know that."
"I can feel it, and had I not been shielding myself you would feel it in me as well."
"Your wolf?"
"No, surely your mind is not so closed to think your species and vampires are all that exist." "what are you then?" I looked out into the ocean for a minute at the question, my answer came so easily with Bella, I don't even know the person I was when I was with her. She was the first person I openly answered like that, and I know this is her best friend but, I let out a sigh "I am a were."
"like a werewolf?"
"did my eyes look like they belonged on a dog-no offence." He let out a little laugh "no I suppose not."
"Panther."
"No way!" I jumped a little at his excited outburst "aye"
"that's awesome. Wait, Bella knows?"
"She does, that girl is, she is something else. And way to observant for her own good." A humorless laugh left him, "that's for damn sure. Is she- is she your imprint?" A genuine smile lit up my face, "she is."
"Congratulations. And I'm glad it wasn't that fucking prick. He would claim her as his mate all the fucking time." A growl built its way from my throat out before I could stop it. "which brings me back to my reason for interrupting your day. Your legends, they are full of shit." Her looked taken aback "what do you mean." I pursed my lips trying not to insult his people as much, "you have honor in your kind, in your tribe. It is a great quality. But you hold it for the wrong reasons, you know nothing of your kind."
"And you do?"
"I am-old, Jacob. I have met many of many kinds. Perhaps I should start at the beginning."
"That would be nice." Before I could continue I felt the presence of another, "hey what's going on?" Leah asked as she reached us, giving me a look that was threatening I just had to smirk at her, "fear not little wolf, I have no intentions of messing with your bond, I have my own." Her eyes widened as Jacob told her to take a seat, that he would explain later but for me to continue. "Your story starts with your people shifting to protect yourself from vampires. True, but vampires are not the reason you shift."
"Then what is?"
"My oh my, we have a smart wolf on our hands. Forgive it is refreshing you ask instead of jumping to conclusions and denials. You are more open to possibilities then your, Alpha. You shift when there is a threat, the fact that the threat was vampire was coincidence. It could have been another pack attacking, a lycan, witches, anything and it would have triggered the gene. Forgive me for my bluntness, but you were not designed to kill vampires, and in all honesty you are lucky to still be alive."
"How so?"
"Have you fought off an entire coven before?"
"No."
"that is why you are still alive, you are young, as is all of your pack, yet you feel like you should pick fights with species that are-higher up the totem pole then you."
"hold up! Your saying vampires are better than us!" I watched slightly amused as he fought to stop the shaking, "you fight for control here and now, and for what? A petty insult? Tell me what is so great about the lack of control you have?" he stopped stunned at my words, he stared at for a moment before noticing my smile, "your proving a point."
"I am, but it was not that vampires are better than you are." I smiled
"What kind of point is that then!" His mate spoke up, "why do you hate vampires Leah?"
"because they kill people!"
"why do you hate the Cullen's?"
"because they are leeches!"
"I don't understand. You hate vampires because they must feed on human blood to survive, even though they don't always kill, but you hate the Cullen's because they are vampires, even though they don't feed on human blood?"
"Why are you defending them!"
"I'm not. Believe me when I say I cannot stand the thought of them, of him."
"then how are you in control?" it was Jacob again, "you're not even shaking."
"we are not exactly the same. But I have learned to control my emotions over time, as I'm sure you would. When I was young believe me, my-temper was just as volatile. And it still can be on days, but with time you learn to accept it."
"They are monsters."
"Are they Leah?"
"How could you say that after what they did to Bella?"
"Oh I definitely think Cullen is a monster. But I think that because of what he did, not what he is. I have friends that are vampires. And they don't always kill humans, but feed on human blood."
"How?"
"Blood bags. Vampires as a species are no more monsters then my kind, then humans, then your kind."
"How could you say that?" I let out a deep sigh as I returned my gaze to the ocean, "about 1400 years ago I was passing through a few villages in Russia, I was a few miles out of one when I heard the screams. The sight I came upon is one I saw for centuries every time I closed my eyes. Wolves, just like you, were tearing this place apart, they were no threat, they were human, they did this because they could, no other reason. Men, women, children torn apart, I watched the light fade from this boy's eyes, this boy who was no older than 6 as he laid in the jaws of one of those, things." I took another deep breath trying to cover up the tears in my eyes before looking into the female wolf's eyes, "I, alongside a vampire, tore each and every single wolf apart, limb by limb. So tell me Leah, which was the monster in this story." Her eyes along with her mates were filled with tears he wouldn't allow to fall. "I-I will have to share this with the pack. Sam will not be happy he will want to make sure you aren't a threat." He warned me, I let out a real laugh at that with Saphira echoing it "Vampires may not be exactly above you on this totem pole pup, but I am above both of you. I will not be bested by a child who holds no real power. Now if-" I couldn't finish my sentence ad a stabbing pain went through my chest, I bent over as everything blurred, "CATT!" "Catt what's wrong!"
"Saphira what is this!" I gasped out finding it hard to breath. Its Bella! You have to go she's in trouble! Hurry Catt! "Bella!"I launched myself off the log and toward the forest at the panic I seldom ever heard in her voice. The others followed behind me as I followed the thread that tied me to her. I vaguely heard the two wolves shift behind me as I flashed between the trees, I caught her scent shortly after launching over the river, it led to a clearing. My heart was pounding in my throat when my eyes locked onto her chocolate ones, she was scared, and there was blood running down her arm, but she was ok, and she was crouched in front of the human who was at the diner looking terrified.
Before them stood a vampire, and one mangy as fuck wolf. His head snapped in my direction when he noticed her attention was no longer on him. "You have three seconds to back the fuck away from my mate." His eyes widened in shock as the two wolves stepped up behind me. He takes a step towards her and I throw a fire ball right between them, "the next ones taking your head bitch" I snarled as I felt Saphira surfacing. I tried launching myself at him but that damn dog got in my way so I grabbed his tail and tossed him to Jacob and Leah, before spinning to where the vampire was, he was no longer there. I savage growl left my lips as I try to figure out where he went, "Catt" the whisper catches my attention as I flash to my mates' side, she never flinched at the speed but her friend did. "she won't hurt you Lauren." Then to me, "I think her arm may be broken." Looking back I see the rest of the pack arrive and finish off the wolf, "Let's go the wolves can deal with this, we need to have your arm checked. We shall speak later Jacob." He nodded his furry head once. "Lauren can you walk?" It took her a minute of looking between me and Bella before she nodded. "Come on. Bella-"
"I'm fine, I promise. She grabbed my hand and laced our fingers, "thank you. But how did you know something was wrong."
"I felt it." I uttered still trying to calm my racing heart, the feelings I had felt when I thought something could have happened to her, I have never been more terrified before. I just stared at her for a moment reassuring myself she was there in one piece. She tugged on my hand leading me out of the forest and toward her truck where we all piled in. I took her keys and drove toward the hospital explaining everything to Lauren, I mean she saw enough to where lying would be pointless, so I explain, especially the importance of secrecy. She just nodded her head in understanding, I'm pretty sure her arm had to be killing her.
We got our story straight, she tripped over a root and fell breaking it, and then we watched as she was led away by the doctor. I wasn't too concerned about her spilling anything she was still in shock, but I would hear anything suspicious either way. I looked back toward Bella, the blood on her arm dried, I led her to the bathroom silently to wash up, I could see her getting more and more nervous. "Catt." My control snapped at the sound of name leaving her lips, I snapped, I grabbed her face in my hands and pressed my lips to hers, I pushed forward until her back hit the wall and her hands went to my waist. I slid my tongue past her lips as she granted me access, a moan came from us both as it danced with hers, I explored every inch of her mouth before pulling back for air. My arms wrapped around her neck pulling her into me as I buried my face into her hair inhaling her scent trying to calm my nerves. I could hear her quietly gasping for breath as she hugged me back just as tightly. "I have never been so- so incredibly terrified." Her arms tightened as I felt her breath against my ear, "I am fine. Thanks to you Catt."
"What if- what if I hadn't made it in time, what if that thing had-" I couldn't even finish my sentence, "But you did. You made it in time Catt and because of it were all fine. I promise. Don't leave." Her last words were said so quietly, so broken, my head shot up to look her in the eyes, a million memories flashing behind them, he left her, to protect her, fucking idiot. "Leave? Babe you're never leaving my fucking sight!" a broken chuckle left her as tears spilled from her eyes, I kissed them away as she gathered herself, "I like the sound of that, and you calling me that." A slight blush reddened her face at her words, "well I haven't had a chance to ask if you would be willing to be my girlfriend did I." a small smile lifted her lips, but it was still a smile, "No you haven't."
"well then Miss Isabella Swan, would you be so kind to allow me to call you mine? My girlfriend that is." Her smile got even bigger as her face got redder, "I would love that." I pressed another kiss to her lips, "then I shall. Now, we better get out there and check on Lauren yes?"
"Yah we should." I threw and arm around her waist as I led her back out to the waiting room.
Bella POV
1 week later
I jolted awake at the pounding on the door blinking my blurry vision away, my dad must have already been at work. Throwing the covers back I head toward the front door to find out who the hell was here at the crack of dawn. Catt would have called to see if I was awake first and Jake would have just came through my window. Opening the door I take a step to the side for Lauren to storm in, "I can't believe them!"
"what?"
"My parents!" Uhoh. I didn't know much about her home situation as we did just barely start to hangout, and she know my girlfriend is not human. Yes she is my girlfriend now, Mike almost had an aneurism the first time he saw her kiss me. "What happened Lauren?"
"They're getting a divorce!"
"well, maybe that's a good thing. You did say they fight a lot."
"Yes they can't stand each other, but, they are fighting over me now."
"Shit. We'll have you tried talking to them? I mean who do you want to stay with?"
"No, you don't get it. They aren't fighting over who I'm to live with, they are fighting over who I have to live with. Neither of them wants me with them." Well crap. I take a tentative step toward her, still not use to this new side of her. "I'm sure that's not true Lauren."
"It is. And I don't even care. But they are both leaving Forks and I don't want to go with either of them! I like it here." I was at a lost for words. "Come on let's eat something before school, let me just get dressed." I quickly got dressed and sent a message to Catt before we threw our stuff in my truck and headed for the dinner. "Where's your car?"
"My dad took it" was all she gave me as she stared out the window. She sat there quietly wringing her hands, that was when I saw it. "Lauren what happened to your wrist."
"huh? Nothing."
"Lauren!"
"I don't do it anymore ok? It's nothing."
"why?" was all I was able to utter. "your dad loves you. Your mom, even out in Florida loves you. You don't have to listen to the why aren't you more like this, why don't you look like that, why did you do that, why aren't you smarter than that, a B+ really? You don't have to listen to the I never wanted kids to begin with." By the time she was done tears were streaming down her face and I pulled over to the side of the road pulling her into my arms. She sobbed into me for a few minutes before she slid back to her side for the rest of the drive. "don't worry Lauren we will figure this out."
"I don't see how, I can't afford my own place, and my parents would never pay or allow me to stay."
"you'll be 18 next week." I uttered as wheels turned in my head. "Still won't matter." She uttered as I parked the car and hopped out. We ate in mostly silence before it was time to head for school and my phone chirped
Catt: Good morning my beautiful.
Me: Morning.
Catt: Is something wrong?
I quickly typed out Lauren's problem as we walked to class separating at the door.
Catt: Ahh I see.
Catt: and you say she turns of age next week?
Me: yah she turns 18 next Thursday. Sorry babe class is about to start.
Catt: Of course Mon Coeur ttyl
I was smiling down at my phone when the seat next to me scooted out and Angela sat down "is there a specific reason for that smile on your face?" she joked out with a smile, "Can't a girl just be happy?"
"Haha of course, let me guess, Catt?" she gestures down to the phone still in my hand. I slide it back into my pocket with a laugh "yah yah."
"I'm happy for you Bella." I turn to look at her at the tone of voice, "seriously, you seem so very happy with her, and she seems to be very good for you and to you."
"Thanks Angela, she is." Classes went by quickly and I soon found myself sitting with Lauren, Angela and Ben at lunch, they seem to be getting along much better with this new Lauren. The cast on her arm only brought looks for the first few days thankfully as well.
We had just gotten out of our last class when Lauren grabbed my arm "oh my god can she roar?"
"what?" I asked confused, "Catt, can she roar? I mean I heard her growl, but I mean she's a cat so can she roar, or like purr. She probably growls during sex huh?"
"oh my god Lauren I don't know why don't you ask her." I suggested as I tried to control my blush at the thought of us having sex. "Wait you haven't?"
"Lauren she can hear you!" I hissed out as I gestured to my truck that had Catt sitting on the hood an amused smirk on her face. "oops."
She apparently didn't really mean that oops as she went right up to and whispered her question "do you roar? Like in human form can you?" My mate thankfully took my friend knowing her secret in stride and simply smiled down at her "I can."
"That is so cool." Ever since Lauren has found out when we were attacked she has been full of questions for her. A small chuckle left her she turned her soft gaze to me before gracefully hopping off of my truck and cupping my face to press a kiss to my lips. My arms automatically wound around her waist as she allows me to deepen it, so unlike when he used to pull away, for my safety. A small moan left her right before Lauren felt the need to interrupt "as much as I'm enjoying the free porno can we get into the car it looks like it's going to rain any moment." Ignoring the comment I hand Catt my keys as she prefers to be the one driving, she opened the door for us both. "you really need to let me take this thing to the shop and take a look at it if you are still so opposed to me buying you a new car."
"you're not buying me a car."
"You can buy me a car" I heard Lauren mutter from by the door. It just reminded me of the conversation we had this morning. "Isabella informs me you will be turning 18 next week?"
"huh? Oh yah next Thursday is my birthday."
"I see, she has also informed me of the-situation you currently find yourself in." Lauren sends me a glare that reminds me so much of the old her, "Has she now?"
"yes, please stop glaring at my mate. Now, 18 is the age you are considered adults these days yes?"
"yes"
"wonderful, so you will no longer be a child and technically no longer under their jurisdiction, you are free to stay as you please."
"First of all, you really have to work on not talking like an old woman. Second I can't afford to stay here by myself."
"hmm yes I figured as much."
"then why did you bring it up!" she snapped at her causing me to tense. "why do you constantly bring up my inhumanity? Entertainment of course."
"Catt!" I admonished in horror, "relax babe I'm kidding. Seriously though Lauren, if you need a place to stay you are more than welcome to stay at my place." I caught the watery look in Lauren's eyes as she glanced at her "why would you do that?"
"Bella is very important to me, you have become important to her, so you have become important to me. And I have been in similar situations, tis not a pleasant feeling, so if I can assist then I shall."
"thank you." Was all she could utter as she wiped her eyes. "tis my pleasure" was her soft reply and I gave myself a note to ask about it later.
We pulled into the empty driveway just as my phone rang signaling it was Jake. I haven't heard much from him since that day last week in the forest. "hey Jake."
"hey bells, you wouldn't happen to be with Catt would you?"
"yah she's right here why?"
"great-Catt, Sam wants to hold a meeting to discuss everything, he was-not happy, especially when a lot of the wolves started to agree with your words. He is also not happy with another human having knowledge of us." I watched as a frown formed on her face "when?"
"tonight, at the river."
"you are aware now that Bella will not allow me to go alone yes?" Damn right I won't. I heard him sigh over the line, "can I convince you bells?"
"not a chance in hell if she is going."
"didn't think so. I will see you guys tonight."
"Bye Jake."
I hung up and practically pushed a confused Lauren out of the car and toward the house, "what the hell was that?"
"Jacob"
"Your friend from the reservation?"
"yah, and one of the wolves who helped us."
"oh. What did he want?" I shared a look with Catt before she shrugged and explained the conversation to her. Just another thing about this woman that amazes me, she never feels the need to hide anything or keep any secrets, especially with those it involves. After that lovely conversation and some left-over pizza Catt borrowed my truck to take Lauren home, who had already threatened to "shank" us both if we didn't come get her tonight for the meeting. she pulled her bike out of the back of it before my father came home to us curled up on the couch watching tv. "hey girls" My father had come to really like her and continuously mentioned how she was much better than "that boy". For starters she actually talked to him, about sports believe it or not where Edward would usually avoid him. Point one for her. She also would hang out here at the house where he could keep an eye on us as we weren't always alone, with him I was always being taken to his house, point two. He would also comment on "the way that girl looks at you bells." "hey dad how was work?"
"hey Chief" he gave her a smile at the name, he had already told her Charlie was fine but she was a stubborn one. "it was alright, nothing to crazy but a few disappearances past Port Angeles. I want you to be careful out there Catt you hear. And I would prefer Bella not going there too much until its solved." Before I had a chance to argue she answered "Of course Chief. Nothing will happen to while I'm around, but if that's what you wish I think we will stick to me coming down here to visit." I watched as he regarded her with a smile "I can't ask you to do that Catt."
"and you're not mon ange. But I to would feel more comfortable with you as far away from any danger." I let out a sigh knowing there was no point in arguing as I snuggled closer into her arms. I sat there silently watching the tv for a while as they chatted about some game or something. "you sure it's safe for you to be riding that thing that far this late?"
"ah no worries Chief. Safe as can be."
"you can stay you know, but I want that door open."
"I appreciate the offer, but I cannot tonight. I have a few things I need to do at home."
"your leaving?" I asked as I finally caught up to the conversation. "Aye, had you not been so lost in your head you would have known that." I rolled my eyes at her tease and my father's chuckle. "yah yah I'll walk you out." As soon as we got to the front door, "is there any way I can convince you to st-"
"not a chance. I'm going with you." She let out a sigh before pressing her warm lips to mine softly. "As you wish. I will come back before midnight then and drag you through your window." It came out so exasperated I had to send a little smack to the side of her head though all she did was laugh. "can you come back sooner?" her head tilted cutely, "like immediately?" I encouraged. "I do not follow mon ange."
"Park your bike somewhere and come back, my window will be open." Her eyes widened for a moment but not she nodded "as you wish, I will be there."
Once I was back inside I said my goodnight to Charlie and went to take a quick shower. I dried off and threw on some shorts and a t-shirt, she was sitting on the desk chair with her legs crossed when I entered my room again. "sorry I took so long" I uttered still drying my hair. "you didn't." she murmured her eyes never leaving me. A few minutes of her staring and I finally voiced my concerns, "will we be safe?"
"I would never allow any harm to come to you, nor Lauren."
"I know, I meant we, as in you to Catt. They have the whole pack."
"they are no threat I assure you mon ange."
"why do you call me that?" she looked taken back by my sudden question, "because you look like an Angel, and you are mine. Not that you are a possession or anything, if it bothers you I can stop, I-" I let out a little laugh as she rambled on, she has become even more cockier since I agreed to be her girlfriend, but still had her nervous little cute moments. "it's fine I don't mind, I was just curious. I like it." a true smile lit up her face again, so different then that sexy smirk of hers but no less breathtaking. "then I am glad, now come here, it has been to long since you were in my arms."
"it's been like 30 minutes" I rolled my eyes but slid into her arms none the less. Her legs uncrossed as she pulled me into her, her hands roaming my back and hips. Mine wound around her neck as I pulled her to me for a kiss. Her warm lips tugged on mine and soon her tongue was sliding past them. As usual the contact brought a quiet moan from us both, her hands gripped me tighter pulling my hips into hers and I gasped at the contact. She took that moment to drag her lips down my neck to the base of my throat where she began to suck gently, my hips jumped forward when her hands moved to be cupping my butt. I shivered at the sensation of her growling against me, her teeth scraping against my neck. I froze momentarily worried she may have lost control of herself, but her tongue licked out a moment later before she pulled back. Her eyes were no longer human, but they were trained on what could only be a red mark on my neck in satisfaction. Another throaty growl left her and the next thing I knew my back had hit the bed and she was straddling my hips. Her hips slowly jerked against mine as she looked down at me with fire in her panthers eyes sending shivers of pleasure through me at every thrust. My hands went to her waist as I sat up to bring our lips together once more, it was my turn to shove my tongue past her lips as I gripped her, pleased at the hungry growl that left her I urged her hips getting more and more frustrated at the layers of clothes between us. Her hand tangled in my hair a nonstop vibrating in her chest. With each thrust of her hips against mine I could feel the heat of her core, and I could feel myself getting closer and closer.
She ripped her lip from mine gasping for air and she has never looked hotter before. And then she was gone, a blanket was thrown over me as she disappeared and before I could ask what I had done wrong a knock had sounded at my door. "Bells you awake?"
"kinda, what's up dad?" I murmured using sleep as an excuse for my hoarse voice, "I just got a call from the precinct, I have to take off and probably won't be back until later tomorrow night. Will you be ok?" I took in a deep breath "that's fine dad I'll be fine. Just be careful."
"Always, I'll see you later, love you."
"love you to dad." As soon as I heard the door shut I threw the blanket back and Catt stepped out of my closet, her breathing was shallow and she appeared to be trying to get control over herself. "I-I apologize if I-if I over stepped mon ange."
"you definitely didn't'" I whispered back to be rewarded by that smirk that weakens my knees. I let my head fall back on to the pillow and tried to control my racing heart knowing I can't be making this easy on her. She slowly crawled over taking the spot beside me as if she could read my mind "you are never in danger from me mon Coeur." She murmured before laying a hand on my stomach. "perhaps you should get some sleep before we head out, there is still a few hours left." So with that I pushed her onto her back and curled up into her side as her arm came around to hold me tight, I slowly drifted off with the heat of my girlfriend burning into me.
Catt POV
I laid there for 30 minutes with my mate in my arms just staring at her peaceful form as she slept. 30 minutes before I realized how much of a creeper I was being. With a sigh I leant over my sleeping girl and grabbed her phone and began scrolling through it, I knew you were the jealous type, but I didn't think you to be that type of girlfriend.
"shut up Saphira I'm not. I'm getting Jacob's number. " her laughter bounced around in my head as I found his number and typed it in my phone. I quickly sent the message:
Me: I need to know Bella with be safe tonight.
Jake: Catt?
Jake: she will, we don't hurt humans. And if Sam tries anything he will regret it.
Catt:…thank you. I can handle Sam and any he commands, but not if I am to focused on her safety.
Jake: I will see you soon.
I didn't bother typing a reply as her heartrate picked up, looking down expecting to see her beautiful chocolate eyes open she surprises me once again throwing a leg over my waist and burying further into my chest, a breathy moan of my name escaping her lips. I bit back my own moan and stopped breathing as soon as the sweet scent of her arousal hit me. Dear goddess this woman will be the death of me.
I laid my head back and shut my eyes trying to gain some kind of peace and control, only for them to shoot open a second later a hand firmly groped my breast possessively. I knew my eyes were no longer human as my chest vibrated.
The noise must have woken her as she her rate increased once more before her eyes opened, as soon as she noticed our position she went from sleepy to horrified in seconds her face turned beet red. Before she could utter a sound I ground out "perhaps you should put some pants on so we can go get Lauren. She nodded her head wordlessly doing as I suggested.
The walk to Lauren's in the dark was a silent one, not even the creatures of the night were around, probably sensing a bigger predator. "I sent her a message to meet us outside." A nod was my only reply as these emotions waged war in me, goddess help me I'm going to take her. I heard her tiny sigh but had no time to reply as we were already here and Lauren was waiting. "so how exactly are we getting to this place?" she asked as we were far enough away from her house and at the tree line. "I'm going to carry you."
"both of us?"
"yes."
"wow." Bella asked no questions as she climbed onto my back, I then swooped a shocked Lauren into my arms, I took off slowly as to not frighten her, but still faster than any human capable of. I set them down "that was amazing" she said breathless, "do you guys do that a lot?"
"Sometimes." I let their voices fade out as I listened to the wind rushing through the forest, the wolves weren't here yet, but they were on their way, the ground barely vibrated with the force of their weight, I'm guessing a few miles out still. "Catt?" I turned at the soft voice, a million questions and concerns on her face, "they are on their way, maybe another few minutes."
Once those few minutes passed I heard the stomping, the growls as they clambered their way to us making way to much noise. I shook my head and stood from the log I silently sat at, much to Bella's concern. Both girls joined my sides as the first wolf broke free of the trees. He was centered and a large black wolf, a snarl was on his lips as he looked to me and then Lauren, it had to be Sam. What could only be Jacob stood on his left, he was bigger than the fake Alpha and a red-ish brown color, his eyes held intelligence he didn't want to possess, he was a child thrown into a life he didn't want. But those eyes lit up when they landed on my mate, a dopy dog grin on his face. 10 other wolves of various sizes and colors soon followed them, some with similar snarls as Sam, some with wary glances, and some with excitement and interest. It didn't take long for me to spot the only female in the pack that was Leah next to her brother I am assuming. "I'm guessing this was just for show and you will be changing back so we may actually speak?" I rose a brow at the wolf and let my voice become bored and uninterested. The wolf that was Jacob let out a chuffing laugh soon followed by a few others. The wolf in question sent me a glare before he and a few others went back behind the trees to change. He came stomping back out glare still on his face followed by Jacob, Leah, Seth and Paul. "what is she doing here!" he gestured to Lauren. "well, it does involve her does it not? That kind of makes this her business."
"she is human and knows our secret!"
"Sam calm down" Jacob reasoned. "are we here to listen to you state the obvious or will you just get on with it and tell me what you want?" he let out a pathetic growl "how do we know you aren't a threat to the humans!? And she won't go running her mouth about us!"
"because if she did that would also endanger me, not something I want to do, and I trust her." I saw her quickly turn to look at me from the corner of my eyes, "and by now I am sure you saw my conversation with Jacob in his head yes? Then you are aware I am no more a threat to them, then you."
"we aren't the threat!" I raise a brow and watch Jacob try to hide a smile knowing what my words will be. "And yet here you are, trying your hardest not to lose control." He froze momentarily before the shaking came back tenfold and he bursts onto all fours. Jacobs pleas fell on deaf ears as he launched across the river at me, I met him half way slamming his muzzle shut before tossing him to the side by his furry little head. And then I was standing before the awestruck humans once more. I looked him in his hate filled eyes "the only thing I will become a threat to is you if you put my mate in danger like that again" I threatened. The rest of the wolves started to get antsy, the ones who still followed the fool growled lowly. I pulled on a fraction of my alpha powered and gave them a roar that silenced them quickly tails between their legs, even Sam dropped to his belly, though he glared with such hatred and embarrassment. "ENOUGH" even I was startled as Jacob voice boomed out. "As rightful Alpha I strip you of the title and take my place. You ungrateful excuse of a wolf are the only danger to this pack, she could have slaughtered us all because of you! And their lives, these young lives would be on your hands for attacking her mate! My sister!"
