CHAPTER 12
A/N: Hey guys! Wow, so much has been going on since my last update. First off; my internet has been acting up so I wasn't even able to edit my story since I write all my stuff on Google Drive. Then my gallbladder has been causing me issues, which is worrisome. And now the Coronavirus is wreaking havoc on everyone around the world. It's really impacted us here in Oregon state, but I'm sure its the same around all of you. The venue my wedding was supposed to be held at has laid off over 3000 people around their locations and it has affected my wedding. government has closed down all restaurants, stores and other social gathering places and As of right now there is a ban on any gathering over 25 people, but it is only supposed to last for 4 weeks. *sighs* so hopefully by April 15th we can still have the wedding at our venue. It's looking like maybe my boyfriend and I might have to be just eloping and then do a big ceremony once all this is over.
I'v been so stressed. Haha *smiles and scratches back of head awkwardly* Then there's all the people that are flying to be at the wedding might not be able to come. Almost everyone in my wedding party is at least 2 states over from me so if the airlines cancels their tickets that's that. But today I woke up feeling calm and at peace. Last Night I took a hot shower and sorta meditated/ prayed for peace of mind, strength and health. I'm praying for all of you out there too, I hope you all are staying safe out there. This virus is devastating not only our health but also our jobs, economy and livelihoods. Please stay safe and look after yourselves ok. Also thank you to everyone that's followed/Favorited and reviewed my story. It means so much to me for all your support.
Bellas.p.o.v
I don't know how long I laid here in his bed. I tried to sleep, I really did. But my mind wouldn't shut down. My brain just kept running over everything that's happened to me over the past few months; Sam, the wolves, the doctor, why my brother and I were here, my feelings towards Sam, and my worry for Lucas. It all played over and over and over in my head until I was practically going insane. And then the most important question of all...Why wasn't I scared anymore of living my life here, and the idea of being with Sam.
I really need answers. I deserved answers. I glance over my shoulder in the direction of where Sam is sleeping. His snoring causes a lopsided smile to form on my lips. Would it be wrong of me to wake him up now to get my answers? He looked so peaceful. Ironic really, with how loudly he was snoring. I slowly sit up in bed, throwing the blankets back and swing my legs over the edge as quietly as possible.
I tip toe slowly in the direction of the bedroom door, doing a small victory jig when I make it to the door and open it successfully without waking up Sam. I step into the hallway and walk to the elevator. Thankfully it isn't the type to ding when opening. I step into the elevator and push the button that reads L/K I guess that meant living space and kitchen?
I step out when it reaches the floor. Surprised to see and hear this floor was so alive. People were bustling around; it reminded me of when I'd stay at my Grandma's farm and chance the chickens she had. As I looked around, this floor seemed to be made up of three open spaces; straight in front my me (and the elevators) was what looked to be the kitchen, the doors had large glass windows and I could see more people scurrying around inside doing their busy jobs.
Not even needing to turn my head, I see to the right of the kitchen doors there were people working over long wooden tables with papers and maps strewn all over (most likely those are the dining rooms) you could plainly see they were in deep conversation based off their rushed tones and the angry fast gestures of their arms. My guess is, they are talking about yesterday's events. I watched them for a few minutes, squinting my eyes and pursing my lips. I contemplated them for a few minutes more then went back to perusing the floor plan.
Just a little more to the right. I can see about 10 people sitting on the couches folding clothes, others sat around the playing games or watching shows and movies. Not to mention all the random teens and kids sprawled out sitting in bean bags doing various teenage activities. Why was there so many people up and busying about at this time of day!. So distracted I forgot why I came down here.
I walk through the set of double swinging doors to the kitchen. If I thought the living room was busy, the kitchen was like a mall during blackfrieday. I stand there wide eyed, taking in all the cooks running about clinking and clanking around. A pretty, young girl about my age was barking out orders, on closer inspection of the girl I could see three long scars going down over her face. It made the side of her face droop down, but even so she was still breathtakingly beautiful.
At that moment, someone came barging through the doors behind me knocking me onto the floor, I sled forward a little and stopped at the girl's feet.
"Ow, ow, ow." I whine out. I don't even bother getting up, I just roll over onto my back and stare up at her from the ground. She had an amused look on her face but didn't laugh at me.
"Oh my. Luna, are you alright? Is there something I can get you?" She says in a rush and bends down, her hands move under my armpits and pulls me up to stand on my bare feet once more. I turn around a giggle a little nervously, a faint sprinkle of red spreading over my cheeks and nose.
"Thanks, I wasn't expecting to get tossed across the room, but that's my own fault. I should've known better than to block the doors of a busy kitchen like this one. Um, I was actually looking to get a midnight snack. But I wasn't expecting to find a working restaurant style kitchen like this one so I got kinda confused and intimidated."
She smiles at me then reaches for my arm. "We would be happy to serve you Luna, anything you want we'll make it for you, wont we ladies?." she says, speaking to the rest of the kitchen staff, they all smile. A chorus of "you betcha's", and "Definitely" rang out. It made me smile and blush as I tucked my chin down to my breast plate. You could tell these ladies loved their jobs and had so much passion for cooking.
"Thanks, you guys are awesome, um, do you think I could have some pancakes and bacon?" I bite my bottom lip in anticipation. Looking up at her with hopeful eyes.
"Coming right up, Luna." She says joyfully, and then turns to get started on my meal. A kitchen hand came bustling up to me then. I looked at her, waiting to see what she wanted.
"Um, Luna if you'd like to have a seat while you wait for your snack, you can follow me.?" I frown, why do they keep calling me by that name. I nodded and followed her to the end of the long kitchen island, a stool was quickly provided and I plop down.
I enjoyed my time while waiting for my food, just watching them all. Some were washing veggies and cleaning pots and pans, some were chopping various things, others skinning and dressing animals, and some working on making different types of delicious looking desserts.
Just then a tall plate of pancakes and a mound of bacon appear in front of me, my mouth instantly starts to water from the smell. I dig in.
"Oh my god, this tastes amazing, you guys are all angels." I moan out loud while my eyes close voluntarily, resting my head in one hand while I savorly chew the mouth full of chocolate chip pancakes. Then I noticed the total silence. Slowly opening my eyes and looking around, everyone had stopped what they had been working on to stare at me. A mixture of different expressions showed all their faces; some held bashful looks, others gratitude, and some with amusement.
"Um. sorry, I didn't mean to sound so unladylike. These are just the best pancakes I've ever had." I blush.
At that every single person working in the kitchen breaks out into a wide smile. It kinda freaked me out. There were a lot of bright sparkly white teeth being shown around me. It gave me the hibijibis.
"Oh wow, thank you so much Luna! That means too much to us. We are happy to serve you and make you happy," The girl with the scars on her face says then throws her hand out in front of her, indicating she wanted to shake my hand. "I'm Emily, head chef and boss to all these goober girls." She laughs at the nickname and I shake her hand warmly. "It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am honored to be able to eat the food you make. It was amazing." Emily blushes at my compliment then ducks away to go wash my dishes. I say my goodbye and thanks once again then head back out to the living room. I walk over to the couch and see a few people playing what appeared to be COD on the PS4.
"Can I play too?" I ask, at least six pairs of eyes turn to look at me as I stand behind the couch fidgeting while I wait for their answers. All of them shared the same expression- one of shock and confusion and that weird vacant far off look I'd seen Sam and Paul give each other. It was really weird. If I didn't know any better, I'd have sworn they were all having a silent conversation, just like the kind of thing Sam always seems to be doing. I make a mental note to add that to my list of questions I plan on asking Sam later today.
"Who are you?" A tall guy with black hair and hazel eyes stands up and takes a step closer to me. He was tall, buff and really cute. He had a baby face, and his eyes showed that he was actually pretty young.
"Names Bella.'' I say, offering my hand. Everyone's eyes widen and instantly start to make room for me to sit with them on the couch. That was weird. A frown spreading over my face.
"Oh Luna!, Sorry. I didn't realize it was you, I'm Jacob." The smile he gave me made my heart swell with so much happiness it was crazy. He had had one of those smiles that just brightened up the room, making it just a little bit warmer and happier.
"That's Embry in the blue. Quil in the black, Jared in the green, and then the youngsters over there on the beanbags are Seth, Collin and brandy. He points to each person when saying their names.
"Luna." They all say at the same time and nod their heads in unison, some even bowing to me. I blush with embarrassment.
"It's Bella," I corrected with a kind smile. Already having forgotten who was who. One of them, on my left, hands me their controller.
"You can take my turn, Luna." My brows crinkle, I didn't want to steal a turn, I'd have been happy to wait for a free turn.
"I think you have me confused with someone else. My name is Isabella, Bella for short, not Luna." I say, politely taking the controller since he wouldn't stop offering it to me. I glance over to see them all with that wired far off spaced out look in their eyes again. I shrugged and decided to start the game. I suck at these games and that is putting it nicely. I just can't seem to be coordinated enough to run and shoot at the same time.
"Ugh this game is cheating!'' I laugh and toss the controller to the next person.
"Don't blame the game, you just need some practice. Your shitty at playing this game though aren't ya." Jacob's head instantly snapped over to the guy that teased me and a weird sound came out of him...it was a growly sound and threw a pillow over to the guy with a little too much oomph.. You can tell Jacob was the little leader of this group of friends. I just laugh and lean back more into the couch, listening to the guys tease and bicker. I quickly fell into the jokes and was soon teasing right along with the best of 'em. The controller ended up making its way back into my hands, this time I was determined to not suck ass and get me some kills.
"Look to the left, Jake is hiding in the bushes." The guy on my left, Jared I think, whispers.
"NO CHEATING!" Jake yells before his character begins shooting at me. The guys burst out laughing as I run straight at Jake's character. My aim sucked but at least I am running and shooting at the same time.
"Run Jake, run!" Quil yells.
I burst out laughing as I start shooting his player, but soon Jake's butt is blocking my view of the t.v screen and game!
"HEY! HEY! HEY! MOVE YOUR ASS!" the big cheater just laughs as I try my hardest to push him out of my way. I begin smacking his butt and hip trying to get him to move but he just laughs harder. Then a monstrous growl erupts through the living room but before I can even blink, Sam has Jacob pinned up against the wall by his neck and lands a hard punch to his face.
"MINE! MY. MATE!" Sam screams out, spittle unintentionally flies out of his mouth to land on Jake's face.
"Samuel!" I yelp out, my hand flings the controller away as I slap them both on the couch in shock. Looking around at the others to see they're all staring at the ground; heads bowed a little, showing the sides of their necks and were practically shaking like little scared puppies. What on earth is going on? What did Jacob even do to warrant that type of treatment.
"Stop! you're hurting him! Let him go right this minute!'' I run over to try and grab Sam's arm as he reels it back, taking aim at Jacob's already bloodied face. I cling to his arm trying to pull with all my might, but it does nothing to stop Sam. He literally brings me with him as he swings his arm out. My body flings hard into the arm and smacks sharply at Jake's torso. A sharp hiss leaves me from the painful impact. When I open my eyes I look up into Sam's face. His eyes snap to mine and my breath catches in my chest. His eyes were completely glowing a bright Gold with Orange burning around the center of the pupil. It makes them look like there were solar rays flashing deeply inside them. I could feel my blood pressure rise with every second I watched them. A growl flows from his snarled up lips. My eyes instantly went to his mouth. What I see scares me even more, Sam's teeth had changed shape! They were now super sharp looking, his top and bottom canines even more so than the rest of them. When he closed his mouth they jutted out from his lips a good few millimeters. I cringe away from him in fear and a loud gasp escapes me. He pulls his arm roughly out of my grasp causing me to fly to the ground, it causes me to do a sorta back flip, causing me to crash my back into the coffee table. I cry out in pain, when I look up through blurry eyes I can see Sam wailing on Jake's face. Before I can scramble up to try and stop Sam again someone yells out a command.
"What is going on in here!- Alpha?" I looked over to see Paul startled, He ran in quickly, authority dripped from his every word.
Alpha?, as in leader? What...is he a leader of a mafia group or something?
I stand up on shaky knees and rush to Paul's side, grabbing his arm and yanking him to Sam.
"Paul! Make him stop! He's gonna kill Jake if he doesn't stop!" I didn't even know I was crying until I saw Paul's shirt soaking wet from me sobbing on it. A strangled sob broke from my chest. To say that I was scared was a complete understatement.
I was terrified.
Paul's face looked confused but his eyes went into that far off look they all seem to do so often, staring at Samuel. Finally Paul snapped back into reality, He moved so he was both next to Sam and protectively in front of me. I pressed into Paul's back seeking comfort and safety. I never did like violence. Removing my face from between his shoulder blades I noticed that Paul's head was tilted to the side, with his hands held loose at his sides. It was a really submissive stance but also looked like he was ready to move at any given chance. I knew this only because the coiling of muscles I felt beneath my fingers gave him away.
"Alpha. I mean no disrespect, but you're scaring your mate. She's terrified right now." Paul spokes slowly, in a neutral soft tone but also very clearly and takes small steps forward. Sam's burning solar ray gaze flexes to Paul, rage clear in his features. For a moment I'm terrified for Paul, -I chew on the skin of my bottom lip with nerves- Sam's eyes quickly move to me. Tears waterfall down my cheeks as I try to piece together what is happening and if Jacob was going to be okay.
Sam's eyes soften as he drops Jacob to the floor. He takes a step towards Paul and I. Without thinking, I step closer to Paul's back so that he is shielding me.
"Alpha, they need help over on the East borderline." Paul says, his voice calm and soothing, full of understanding.
Sam nods slowly, never once taking his eyes off me. Slowly, I notice his eyes start to go back to their normal warm and caring chocolate color.
I could see so many emotions playing across his handsome face; I can see the anger, sadness, regret, remorse, and self loathing. All of those emotions swirling around. Every fiber of my being was begging me to go to him, wrap my arms around him and tell him everything was ok. But I was also so terrified. I'd never seen so much hate and anger in one person before.
My gaze dropped to the floor. Deep down I know he would never lay a hand on me or Lucas, But that still doesn't change the fact he was capable of that kind of destruction in such a short amount of time. Who's to say that hair trigger wouldn't be directed to Lucas.
Sam sulks out of the room without another word. My eyes follow him as he runs through the back door and into the forest. I sidestep Paul so that I can move over to where Jacob was sitting, I wanted to check on him. All my instincts were screaming at me to make sure he was ok.
"He'll be alright, but you should go back upstairs and get some more rest. Plus we don't want to make things worse with you walking around wearing what you are now. He deliberately glances down then back up to my face. I blush knowing exactly what he was talking about but I hadn't really cared till he said something about it. I just cross my arms over my chest, hiding my hardened nipples, due to the cold and not by arousal. I knew the nightie I wore was thin and only came to the middle of my thigh. Plus having a profession as an exotic dancer, modesty kinda dulled itself down. I was extremely comfortable with my body so I had no reservations about showing it. Sorta force of habit.
"What do you think, I'll make things worse? If it's the way I'm dressed I'll just go get a blanket." I say. Paul's face didn't change emotion when he glanced over to Jacob. The others had surrounded him and were helping him to stand up.
"Sam is a good guy, really he is. But it is in his nature to react to those that show disrespect to him.'' I stare at Paul in confusion.
"Wha-" I begin to say. But Paul's interrupts me.
"Tomorrow, or rather later on today after you've woken up from your nap, Sam promised to explain and he will. But you need to go upstairs to your floor at the very least. Please." he said. I noticed we had walked back to the elevators. Paul gently nudges me inside them and then I am being lifted up to my floor. Right before the doors had shut on me I was able to get a glimpse of Jacob, to my surprise he looked pretty good. He only had a few cuts. Even though all the blood on his face and shirt showed otherwise, he was perfectly fine now.