Last Kiss (Queen of Death)
Summery: What if Bella got over her heart ache when Edward left sooner than indicated? What if she spent that time getting closer to her friends and family? How will that alter her trip to Volterra?
Rating: M
Paring: Aro/Bella
Disclaimer: All rights belong to Stephanie Meyer
Notes: Okay, it has been a while since I posted a story on here. I know my writing style hasn't been the best in the past, but I hope it has somewhat improved now. We are living in difficult times so hopefully this story can bring a slime to at least one person's face
Chapter 1
'Dear Diary,
I haven't been able to update you for a while, so let me catch you up. I spent 3 months doing the bare minimum, hardly sleeping, hardly eating and never talking. I look back on that time with a sad regret.
So much had changed since then. No more was I pining for the family I lost, the family that left me. I could understand Alice and Jasper leaving, after my birthday I could see how he might need to be away for a bit to get over what happened, and I knew Alice wouldn't leave her mate to do that on his own. I just wish I had the chance to apologise to him, to forgive him. He always tried so hard not to eat me; he was always so gentle. He was the only member of the family to tell me I was worth it. Worth their protection and their love. I would never forget that day in Phoenix with Alice and Jasper.
The others…the others I can't forgive so easily. To leave me with no goodbye…to leave me with nothing.
But I realised I couldn't spend my life like this, waiting and hoping they would come back. So, I went to school, I actually interacted with my school friends. I even invited Jess and Angie out shopping, which was surprisingly fun. I didn't hate it too much and it was nice to spend time with them.
For Christmas, Charlie and I had a nice quiet day in. Nothing extravagant. We exchanged our modest presents, watched some TV and even played a game of monopoly. I cooked up a small roast dinner, nothing over the top seen as it was just for us. It made me sad that I couldn't remember the last time I spent Christmas with him, having spent most of my time with my mum over the years. Later in the evening we went to Billy's for drinks and TV, even the Harry and Sue joined us.
New Year's Eve was spent on the rez as well, Charlie, Billy, Sue and Harry as well as all the other elders spent their time at Billy's while the rest of us sat around the fire on the beach. Jake, Quil, Embrey, Seth, Leah, Paul, Emily, Jess, Angela, Mike, Lauren, Mike, Tyle, Jared and I, as well as a few other people we knew on the beach, enjoying the warmth and experience. I got plenty of photo's that day. Memories I want to take with me for the rest of my life in my photo album. It won't be long until we all go off to college, so we had to make the most of our time together.
We would often all hang out together, the rez kids and us pale faces, just enjoying time.
I noticed Sam acting strange, keeping his distance with everyone. His look wildly different to how he looked before the Cullen's left. It was during an evening around the campfire with everyone when I remembered the legends I'd heard, both from the childhood and what Jake told me about the cold ones, plus what I had subsequently discovered online.
The very next day I went to the rez, knowing Jacob would be at school, and spoke to Billy. Talking about certain legends and how I had been in a relationship with Edward…asked if all the legends were real. Once I had confirmation that Sam was in fact part wolf and could phase into one at will, I only hoped Jake wouldn't have to go through the same thing.
Billy must have told the elders of my knowledge as no one seemed to take issues with me being near Sam again, who opened up to me a bit more, finally realising he had someone his own age to talk to about it. When he told me of imprinting and that he had imprinted on Emily, despite being with Leah, I was shocked to say the least, but gave the best advice I could; follow your heart.
I was there for all the pack members after they shifted, not wanting to be there when they were shifting in the beginning after what happened to Emily. They all seemed to welcome me with open arms, Emily and I looking after our wolf boys.
It wasn't long after Jake shifted for the first time that we discovered Victoria was after me. She had been around for a while but Sam hadn't been able to chase her well on his own, so they'd only just been able to get a good description of her.
Emily and the boys helped me through it, offering me extra protection. I knew they protected all of Forks, but it was nice to know they cared for me.
Jake came with me almost everywhere now, my own best friend and bodyguard. We even went cliff jumping together, usually with the rest of the pack and some of my school friends but also just the two of us.
I had worried he thought of me as more than a friend but that thought was put to rest when Lauren straight up asked us if we were together at one of our beach bonfires. Jake had laughed the notion off, claiming I was more like a younger sister. I punched him in the arm, reminding him I was still older.
I came across Laurent. Brady, one of the younger wolfs got scared and ran off into the woods so they sent me and Emily out to find him, the pack close to us. Brady didn't want to see any of the pack, the idea of turning into a wolf terrifying him. So, we agreed to go after him. I managed to come across the meadow Edward and I used to frequent, looking around to find the young wolf.
I took a moment to think how similar this meadow and my relationship to Edward was. Once flowering beautifully and blooming. Now dull and decaying.
I spotted a figure curled up in the grass, shaking. I slowly went over, not wanting to startle whoever or whatever it was.
As I got closer, I realised it was Brady.
I quietly spoke to him, trying to comfort him but it was like he couldn't hear me. I could feel something, someone, watching me from the trees. I looked up to see Laurent, no shirt and jacket open, revealing his dark chest. Before I knew it, he was in front of me and I stood protectively in front of Brady's quivering form. He came to scout me out for Victoria, see if I was under the Cullen's protection. I told him what he wanted to know, hoping the pack had felt his presence.
He was going to kill me.
I wasn't going to show I was scared. I wouldn't give him the satisfaction.
Then the wolves came. I'd never been happier nor more scared to see them charge through the meadow, chasing the deadly immortal further into the trees.
Jared stayed behind and shifted, being second in commend he had to make sure Brady was okay while the alpha, Sam, went to hunt the trespassing vampire.
I went with them, feeling more in danger than ever before. At least we had confirmation that it was Victoria.
But I also realised I was putting so many of my friends in danger just by asking for their protection. I think Billy could see I was deep in thought when the three of us went back to his. He put his hand on my and told me not to.
I had considered giving myself up so everyone else would be safe, but both Billy and my subconsciousness knew it wouldn't stop the wolves, they'd just come after me.
So, I carried on worrying about them, letting them protect me.
Until I made the biggest mistake I could have done. We were all up on the cliffs, the pack as well as my friends from school. We were cliff jumping on the lower rocks, enjoying the mildly warm weather. The pack stiffened, all of them. They must be able to smell Victoria. I nodded and called Sam's cell so he could portend to have an important call that needed all of them to head off.
Jake stayed behind of course, not willing to leave our little group unprotected.
We carried on cliff jumping, having fun, just the small group of us. Then Jake got a phone call, a real one. It seemed to be Billy, so he wasted no time in answering. I could see him look undecided and nodded to him, telling him that I'll get everyone off the beach and get them to go home before heading to Emily's myself.
So now it was just Lauren, Angela, Jess, Mike, Eric, Tyler and me. I could see them having fun, the boys jumping from the tallest cliff making me somewhat jealous. I think they could see the envy on my face as I looked at the cliff face. I wanted to try it, just once. After a bit of persuading, I walked up to the top of the cliff. I was still in my normal clothes, but I didn't care, it was my one time to try this jump. Luckily, I left my jacket down on the beach. Once I got there, I took a moment, fear creeping into me as I looked down into the water. And then I jumped.
It was terrifying as I fell. Then I hit the water, my head bobbing up as I grinned. I did it. But I was pushed back by the current, slamming my head on the rocks behind me. I could feel myself get closer and closer to the seabed as my eyes closed.
The nest thing I know I'm getting pulled out by Sam, trying to get me to cough up the water in my lungs, everyone else on the beach stood in silent fear.
I told them I was okay and I could see everyone relax. I told Angela that not even death would keep me from her birthday party. Sam drove me to Billy's where Jake, Charlie, Billy, Sue, Seth and Leah were sat in different stages of grief. Harry had died.
Charlie got up and came to give me a gigantic hug, the death of one of his best friends clearly getting to him. I offered to stay behind, to help, but he encouraged me to go to the party.
We'd been planning this party for weeks, Angela's birthday. It was a black-tie party where we'd have dinner and have a dance. Pretend we're sophisticated. I nodded sadly at him but went into Jake's room to change into my dress, a backless, black dress in a mermaid style. White lace accentuating my curves as it went around my waist. Red and gold gems scattered on the bottom of the skirt almost looking like a fire consuming my body. I stepped out and saw the bitter happiness in my dad's eyes. I looked beautiful but he lost a friend. I waited patiently for Jake to change, quickly putting my hair up in a messy bun, a few strands of hair falling into my face.
We drove over at a pleasant speed, glad Sam thought to grab my black leather jacket from the beach before we left as the chill of the air raised goosebumps on my skin.
It was a lovely evening; I took even more photo's despite my album being almost full already. I could always buy another one anyway. These moments were too precious to miss.
Father Webber even took some large group photo's, it was hard to get us all in them seen as there was a good twelve of us in attendance. We all said our goodnight to Angela, and I gave her a last birthday present with a smile.
Of course, Jake drove me home in my truck, I pretty much cuddled up to him, taking in his heat as the cold evening air permeated the metal of my truck.
He could smell a vampire as soon as I opened the doors, pulling me back into the cabin. I could a feel grown rumble in his chest as he looked around wildly, fear rising in me, glad Charlie wasn't home.
I glanced around I noticed Carlisle's car parked over the road. I told Jake it was fine, but he looked at me like I was crazy until I pointed out Carlisle's car not far away and he visibly relaxed. I told him it must be one of the Cullen's or a trap and asked him to wait outside. Even if it was a Cullen, depending on which one it was I might want Jake to drive me back to the rez.
I took a deep breath and got out, heading for the door, unlocked it and stepped in, looking around for the uninvited guest.
Alice stood in front of me and I couldn't stop but throw my arms around her. She was back! Then she said the words that shook me to my core, her golden eyes roaming my face questioningly.
"Bella!? Would you like to tell why you're still alive?"
She told me of a vision, she saw me jumping off the cliff and floating down into the dark depths of water as I fell unconscious. I almost laughed a little.
I told her that it was recreational fun, cliff jumping, and that there were loads of people there, all of us trying to jump from high and higher off the cliff face. She didn't seem that happy at my activities but swept me up in her arms anyway. At least she was happy to see me alive.
We soon found ourselves sat on the sofa, chatting away. She asked me about when I got a better fashion sense and, of course, I blushed beet red and I pointed out I needed something to do when they left. I left out the fact I started looking forward to our weekly stop in Port Angeles to browse the shops and have a nice dinner.
I asked about the family and she said Edward went off on his own. That she and Jasper went away for a while but by the time they were on their way back the decision had been made. Apparently, Emmett missed me terribly and Esme was heartbroken.
She then asked about why I smelt like wet dog. I frowned slightly in confusion before I replied that it was probably Jake or the rest of the pack. She didn't seem thrilled at the idea of me being best friends with a pack of wolves, but I pointed out that they weren't all that happy with me being best friends with a vampire and her family. She mused that it was probably the pack causing blind spots in her vision.
Then Jake came in, complaining of vampire stink and I smiled, hoping this friendly rivalry wouldn't turn into anything serious. Fortunately, I think Alice could sense my concern and tried to civil.
The three of us sat talking of Victoria and Laurent's little visit for a while before a concerned look fell over Alice's face. She said she needed to let the rest of the family know what was happening, that they needed to come back and fight this danger they left her in. I tried telling her she didn't have to but there is no talking Alice out of anything.
So, Jake and I sat comfortably on the sofa, discussing Angie's party and how much fun it was when the home phone rang out, so I asked Jake to get it as I was far too comfortable say here, shoes off and a mug of coffee Alice made me earlier. I could hear the conversation and Jake could always bring the phone over to me if needed, but it sounded like he had the matter covered.
I heard him answer the phone and say Charlie wasn't here but out preparing for a funeral. I asked him who it was, but he just shrugged and said some woman. I thought it must have been the station, so they'll call his cell if needs be.
That was until Alice walked in, a look of pure terron on her face. If vampires could cry, I think she'd have them running down her face in an almost endless stream.
She saw Edward go to the Voltori. He'd gone to bed for death.
He called home and spoke to Rosalie who told him I was dead and that they phoned to check. He thought I was dead so went to have his own life ended.
Alice pleaded with me to go to Italy with her, to stop him revealing himself to the humans. I didn't particularly want to go, but I'd do it for her.
Jake tried to stop me, but he knew it was of no use, he had to let me go. I promised to call him once I landed and I would call Charlie on the way to the airport, but we had to go now.
He let me leave and I couldn't tell if he was angry or sad that I was running off to save a vampire, but I couldn't let that stop me, I had an idea.
True to my word I called Charlie, telling him I was having to travel last minuet to make a college interview. Spewed a few lies, informing him it only came today and must have got delayed in the post. He seemed so sad not having me around, especially now he had one less friend, but he deemed my future more important.
So now, here I am, on a plane to Italy. About to save my ex-vampire boyfriend from death. You could write a novel with everything that has happened to me since arriving, probably even a trilogy.
I'll update you again as soon as I can, I promise.
Bella.'
I sighed as I sat back in my seat, placing my pen down on the leather-bound journal in front of me, stretching out my cramped hands. We were almost in Italy and my nerves were almost uncontrollable. I regretted not grabbing a change of clothes and moved around as much as I could to get comfortable. Wearing a dress like this one wasn't ideal for a long flight to Italy, even if you are in first class.
I looked to Alice as she snapped her phone closed.
"everything okay?" I asked, reaching for her hand to give it a small squeeze. She was still my best friend after all.
"Jasper is meeting us at the airport" she sighed. I can only imagine she was glad to not have to be away from her mate for too long, but not looking forward to being face to face with the Voltori. I haven't exactly heard great things about them after all.
Once we were off the plane, I instantly saw Jasper and Alice ran to him, flinging her arms around him and she jumped into his arms. He span her around, a big smile on his face before setting her down.
"Thank you, Jasper. It means a lot that you're coming with us." I admitted, keeping my distance slightly, unsure if he wanted a hug. He swiftly pulled me into a hug that I returned with a massive smile. Evidently, he did want a hug.
"Before we get to the castle, I just wanted to apologise Jasper, about my birthday. I know it must have been difficult and I'm sorry. I never wanted to make you uncomfortable." I looked down, embarrassed as I thought of him having to be pulled back as blood flowed from my finder and then down my arm once I was flung across the room. I glanced up and saw him looking at me quizzically. I thought he was going to say something, but Alice cut in, reminding us we had a time frame to work to. Jasper brought his own car, a rental, but we needed something faster.
Alice said she was going to go get a car and quickly came round with a yellow sports car. That cannot be a rental. I jumped in and Jasper went to get into his car to follow behind us at a slower pace.
My heart began to speed up just as the car did as the Italian countryside passed us by, I was unsure if this was the wisest decision I'd ever made, but finding it far too late to change my mind. I had to do this. For Alice and the family. For my friends.
Notes:
Hi guys, I hope you enjoyed this chapter! Any reviews will be greatly appreciated. I'm already working on chapter 2, but I'm struggling to get it down on figurative paper how I want it, but hopefully it will be up soon.
Answers to any questions you have and shoutouts (if any come up) will be on the next chapters beginning notes!
Lord President of Gallifrey
