It's been a whole year and a couple of months since I've updated this fic. Please put down your pitchforks. I beg you. I had a serious case of writer's block with this one. Thank you for all the support. Enjoy this random update.

All mistakes are my own and my disclaimer is still the same.

When he woke, Jacob was facing the window. Streaks of sunlight beamed through the slats of the shades and he squinted to stop the stinging in his eyes. Exhaling, he nuzzled his face into the mattress to block some of the brightness impeding his vision. This wasn't his bed. His bed at home was lumpy and small.

He wasn't in his room.

Then Jacob was suddenly also aware of the hot skin against his back, the leg around his waist, arm around his chest and light breath ghosting through his hair and onto his neck.

Holy shit.

'So, it wasn't a dream.' Jacob thought happily.

After several minutes, Jacob felt Harry inhale against him, his leg shifting around his waist. Only a few seconds passed before the man's body froze.

He was awake.

Jacob's mind kicked into overdrive and his heart began pumping in his chest. While his gut told him Harry wouldn't have a big freak-out, he knew all of this must be a lot for him to process. Imprinting on someone was overwhelming as it was, throw in Harry's crazy life and experiences and —well… yeah.

A sudden nervousness bubbled in his stomach. What if Harry was freaking out right now? What if this was too much? What if…what if he regretted last night? What if Harry accepting his imprint was just a mistake and he realized he didn't want to be with Jacob in that way?

No, sounded a voice in Jacob's head. Things got a little hot and heavy, but Harry shared his whole life story and Jacob shared his. They connected.

That had to count for something.

Pushing past his doubts, Jacob took another breath and rolled over to change his position. The Harry tensed again, arm going stiff and heart rushing into a fast pace. When Jacob faced Harry, the shorter boy was staring at him, bright green eyes locked on his own. His hair was messy, messier than usual, black strands poking out in all directions, and his cheeks were rosy with either heat or embarrassment (probably both, Jacob thought). Slowly, Jacob raised his hand and brushed through Harry's hair with his fingers as he did last night, pushing it back away from his forehead softly.

Gently touching that unique scar. Harry blinked and inhaled. Jacob brushed through his hair once more before drifting his hand down Harry's cheek to rest behind his neck.

"Hi," Jacob whispered.

The older boy stared at him; eyes wide. Jacob noticed Harry's jaw shift as he began chewing on the inside of his bottom lip.

Jacob sifted his fingers into the hair at the nape of Harry's neck. The older raven-haired boy closed his eyes at the contact, chest rising as he took a deep breath.

Leaning upward, Jacob pressed a chaste kiss to his lips.

Harry responded immediately, the hand that was idly draped over Jacob's waist running up his back. When he pulled back, Harry pressed back in shyly, warm lips plush against his own.

Sighing in his throat, Jacob parted his mouth and deepened the kiss. Their lips slowly moved in tandem, little, soft clicks echoing in the otherwise silent bedroom. Harry's hand slid further back up Jacob's hot back until it tangled into his hair.

Another surge of giddy warmth spread from Jacob's heart. He still wants this. This was still happening.

Before things escalated, Jacob pulled back for air and slowly pulled back his hand from Harry's neck. Harry's eyes slowly blinked open.

They stared at each other for several moments, neither saying a word. Harry broke the gaze first, nervously dropping his eyes. Jacob raised his hand again, this time placing it on Harry's chest to brush softly over the stag tattoo there as he'd imagined earlier that morning.

"Hi," Jacob repeated.

Harry's eyes flicked up to meet his. "Hi," he croaked before he cleared his throat, voice raspy from sleep.

Jacob's lips quirked into a smile. He tried to contain it—to reveal how giddy he felt right now was embarrassing, goddamnit—but he failed, lips parting into a grin as he felt his cheeks heat. This time it was his turn to drop his eyes.

He felt Harry's hand glide from his hair to his cheek and he looked back up, meeting Harry's soft gaze. The man pushed a few stray strands behind his ear, sending more warmth to Jacob's chest.

Harry pushed himself up and Jacob followed, moving into a sitting position. Several moments of silence passed between them. Jacob knew they needed to talk about what had happened last night. –– well nothing happened–– but Jacob knew that just one night of conversation wasn't gonna just set them both straight. They wouldn't ride off into the sunset together without any more questions. Relationships were deeper than that. If Harry was in this, they'd have more time to talk. But a howl pierced the air reminding Jacob of his duty to his pack and land.

"That's Sam, calling me." Jacob reached out to Harry's face, turning him gently toward him. He leaned in and kissed him softly. When he pulled back, he rested his forehead against Harry's temple for several moments.

"I really don't want to leave right now," he whispered.

A shaky breath left Harry's chest. "You don't have to."

Jacob pulled back, meeting Harry's eyes. They were wide, serious. His heart leaped in his chest.

Jared couldn't do his patrol, so if he couldn't either Sam would probably have a fit. Not that he was Sam's biggest fan, but the guy did keep his word on covering his patrol yesterday. And yesterday was arguably the best day of his life, so, maybe he owed him one.

"I wish I didn't," Jacob said, reaching up to brush a few strands of hair away from Harry's face. The man's eyes returned to him, unsure. "I'll be back around 1. I'll cut my patrol short. I'll take you to Emily's place."

Harry nodded again, another deep breath leaving his chest. "Okay."

Jacob smiled softly before leaning in for another kiss.

…

Harry's morning passed with a blur. Part of him couldn't believe that last night happened and the other part was completely in shock. After Jacob took off, he spent the rest of the morning baking. That may sound like a surprise, but he liked to do it when he was stressed. It calmed him down.

The unexpected knock on his door at around noon caught him off guard. He wasn't expecting any visitors and Jacob had told him that he wasn't coming back until around one. Harry dusted his hands on his apron and hoped to god that he didn't have any flour on his cheeks or in his hair. Stress baking at its finest.

He opened the door only to be face to face with shirtless muscle, brown skin, and extra-wide white grins. Harry didn't remember ordering a stripper gram. "Um, hi?"

The one on the left spoke first. "Holy shit, it's him!"

"Obviously, who else would it be? This is his house."

"Oh, and he's baking. Smells like chocolate chip cookies."

"Emily's gonna be happy she's not the only cook anymore."

"Jake is so lucky his imprint can cook. The only food Claire can make is plastic."

"Well yeah, dude she's two."

"As if I'd ever forget."

These were obviously some of Jacob's pack members, but Harry just didn't know which ones. It all kind of blurred together last night.

"I'm not even gonna lie your pretty hot man." Harry startled, and blinked finally realizing that he was being spoken to directly.

"Um, thanks," Harry ran a hand through his hair subconsciously. "So, which one are you?"

"Oh, I'm Embry," the one on the left said extending his hand, "it's nice to meet you."

"Likewise," Harry said, letting the huge warm hand engulf his in a handshake. He looked at the one to the right expectantly who was too busy staring at his face to notice.

"Dude," Embry whispered, and the other wolf shapeshifter startled into action.

"I'm Quil," he introduced but offered no hand for Harry to shake. Instead, he put a hand under his chin to contemplate. "You know what I think it is, dude? I think it's the eyes. He's got some really pretty eyes."

"His hair is a bit of a mess. Let's just be honest."

Well fuck. Harry knew that.

Then they started talking to each other like Harry wasn't even there. Harry had questions okay? Like where the hell was Jacob and why were these two, specifically only these two standing on his doorstep?

"Yeah, it's wild but it works for him."

"Yeah," Embry mumbled. "But it's the whole package that makes it worth wild. The eyes, the hair, I mean he's got great skin."

Well, Harry did exfoliate. Thank you very much.

"Nice lips too."

"Totally." Quil nodded in agreement, leering at him. "He's a total hottie."

Embry barked out a laugh. "Please tell me you didn't just refer to him as a hottie."

Quil shrugged, "I call it how I see it, man. He's a British hottie. Grade A, dude."

"Well, he's even hotter in person that's for sure. Jacob's blurry thoughts didn't do him justice." Embry squinted at him and grinned.

"He's quite short though." Quil pointed out.

"Yeah." Embry snorted. "A little tiny short stack."

Harry was five eight which was perfectly average height. Okay. Not everyone could be giants.

"Seth's gonna have a field day with him."

"Seth isn't even into guys."

"Jacob wasn't either but that didn't stop him from imprinting on a dude."

"If we think he's hot, Seth's gonna think so too."

"Um, hello," Harry's voice broke through their chatter a bit louder and they froze. "Not to be rude or anything, but did Jake send you guys or something?" There had to be a very logical explanation for two of his packmates showing up at his door. There had to be.

Embry and Quil shared a look, a brief silence followed, they look down at Harry and burst into laughter.

"What's so funny?" Harry asked flatly.

"No," Embry said choking back his little giggles. "We're not laughing at you."

"It's just that we're supposed to be on patrol, but we came to see you instead," Embry explained. "Jacob must've told you about how excited everyone is to meet you right?"

When Harry nodded, he continued. "We wanted to see you in person first. We called first dibs. We're supposed to be north of the border, but we're not."

"Jake doesn't even know that we're here."

"Not that he would mind. We're his best bros."

Harry took a second to digest that information and crossed his arms over his chest. "How'd you even find me?"

"We met up with Jake when patrols had just started. Your scent was all over him." Embry waggled his eyebrows, his mind in the gutter. "It wasn't hard to track."

Even though nothing happened last night, Harry felt his cheeks go hot. He cleared his throat. "So, you went against orders just to meet me earlier than everyone else?"

"Yup."

"Totally worth it too."

"Well, we technically just deviated from our patrols for like a second."

"Yeah, we'll finish them in no time." Quil insisted.

"Sam might have our asses," Embry said, laughing and shaking his head. "But it was worth it. I can already tell."

A wolf howl pierced the air and the smile on their faces dropped.

"Fuck," Quil moaned. "I guess that's our cue."

They started to back away in unison and Embry aimed a wink and a sly smile his way. "Yeah, we'll see you later short stack."

"Bye!" Harry called out waving, ready to shut the door.

"Oh, and Harry?" Harry paused and glanced over at Embry who was now the closest. Quil was long gone, disappearing into the foliage surrounding them. "Your cookies are like a minute away from starting to burn."

"Shit," Harry cursed, and he slammed the door close, sprinting to his kitchen. Yet he felt himself smile. Harry would be lying if he said he wasn't a bit intrigued by the events later in the day. If that was just a snippet of the pack, he honestly wanted more.

…

"You're nervous," Jacob pointed out as Harry shifted around in the passenger seat. 1 p.m. came around way sooner than Harry would have liked.

Harry watched the trees whizz by and resisted the urge to roll his eyes. "Of course, I'm nervous. This is your family. I'm meeting your family."

"There's nothing you need to worry about. Emily's alone at her place right now. Everyone else will be trickling in after their patrols are finished."

"If you're comfortable with Emily then you'll be comfortable with everyone else." Harry was seriously worried if he overdressed for something like this. Jacob was in his typical cut off shorts with a shirt. Harry, however, had a nice jumper on and some jeans.

"Well, I already met Quil and Embry so I can cross them off the list."

"Ha," Jacob snorted. "I'm not surprised they did that. I bet it was all Quil's idea."

"They said everyone was really excited."

"Yeah," Jacob said, laughing mostly to himself. "They are. Quil is bringing Claire over too. My sister is coming too. Shit, even Kim. It's gonna be a reunion."

The blood drained from Harry's face. So many new people. So many people will make an impression of him. So much can go wrong.

Jacob caught on fairly quickly, taking Harry's silence as obvious worry. "Hey, it'll be fine. They'll love you."

Harry scoffed. "They don't even know me."

"But they will." Jacob looked so sure. So trusting in his pack, so Harry had no other choice but to believe him.

…

Emily scars or even worse than what Harry imagined. Harry has seen his fair share of facial scars, but these were horrific. Remus' scars although he received them on the terrible circumstances, added character. The same thing with Bill and even Mad-Eye and Harry couldn't imagine himself without his scars, but he most certainly could imagine Emily without hers.

Harry wasn't staring, he swears he wasn't, but he just couldn't help but notice, what a beautiful smile she had, even though the jagged scars went through half her lips. It would seem that over here at the reservation, hugs were a thing. Lots and lots of hugs.

"It's so nice to finally meet you, Harry." She said as she squeezed him. "You've caused quite a buzz around here." When she pulled away, her expression was soft, and Harry knew her words were true.

"I made cookies," Harry told her and gestured to the dozens of foil pans he made Jacob carry in for him. They were set on the table, piled high.

"You made the pack cookies?" Emily asked, looking at him surprised.

Harry brushed a hand through his unruly curls and shrugged. "Well, yeah."

For a second there, Harry was worried that bringing food was the wrong move. Emily laughed and it was a charming melody on its own and she said, "Welcome to the family."

It sounded like a welcome home.

…

There was a reason why the honeymoon phase was called a phase. It typically only lasted for six months. He and Jacob were only treading on nearly a month now. It almost seemed too impossible for this feeling to end.

Harry wasn't a shapeshifter, so he didn't fully know how imprinting worked. However, Jacob insisted that what they were feeling wouldn't just dwindle and dissipate. It would last forever.

That sounded too good to be true, but Harry was going to put his trust in Jacob because he had nowhere else to put it. He had nothing else to lose. Especially with his love life.

Meeting the pack went great. They loved him and he even made Leah crack a smile which apparently according to Jacob was a very daring feat.

Harry was sure that he won them over because of the cookies. A genius idea on his part. Even though Jacob insisted that there was no room for them to not like him. If the pack was just one big puzzle and Harry was Jacob's imprint, then Harry was bound to be one of those pieces that completed the puzzle.

They were meant to be his family now. Prepped and primed. Again, Harry knew what you were thinking. This all seemed just too good to be true. Right? But he hoped to God that it wasn't.

One thing about the honeymoon phase that Harry enjoyed was that Jacob was attached to his hip. More like, his lips were attached to Harry every second of every day. That was a slight exaggeration of course but sometimes it felt like that.

Jacob just looked at him with so much love, Harry thought he didn't deserve it.

He was waiting for himself to feel sick of Jacob like he's felt with everyone else, but every time Jacob embraced him it gave him butterflies. Every single time. And the best thing of all was that just Harry's presence alone was enough. Jacob was completely content with Harry just being in the same room with him. They didn't need to talk. Sometimes they didn't even need to touch, but they both liked the contact.

He liked it when Harry's scent was everywhere, so he loved it when Harry was at his house. Billy had welcomed Harry with open arms, no shovel talk included. Harry made it clear that he fully accepted Jacob's imprint and they were in it for the long haul. So now they were just focusing on getting to know each other, knowing each other's limits and boundaries.

Yet it was hard learning boundaries when they both enjoyed being with each other most of the time. But Harry got his alone time when Jacob was in school.

When Jake pulled up in the rabbit, he slammed the door closed and went straight to the garage. Harry knew this because he was watching from the window. He had eaten a late lunch with Billy, and they got a little caught up in conversation.

He looked over at Billy and set the dishrag on the counter, "Looks like he's upset."

Billy nodded in agreement. "That's a rare occurrence these days."

"You should get out there, I'll finish up here, son," Billy wheeled over to the sink and took the rag in his hands. Harry left through the front door and made his way to the garage doors.

He cracked them open and peeked inside. Jacob was standing by his workbench in front, back facing him.

"Hey," he called out and Jacob turned around and forced a smile on his face.

"Hey, babe."

"Bad day?" Harry asked, approaching him slowly. Jacob shook his head and opened his arms wide, beckoning him to move a little faster and Harry obliged.

Jacob's lips traced his jaw, breath soft and warm. "No," he murmured. "Now that you're here."

He pulled Harry into a kiss, slipping his tongue in with a little warning. His right arm rose, resting against Harry's shoulder and pulling him tight, fingers digging into the sleeve of his shirt almost desperately. The opposite looped around Harry's back up and off the ground, drawing him in against hard muscle and throbbing heartbeat.

It was confining but comfortable and Harry was a very weak man when it came to Jacob it seemed.

He shifted, sucking lightly at Jacob's tongue, lips curling at the growl it earned. Harry released a muffled snort before sliding his fingers into Jacob's newly cropped hair, scratching lightly at the boy's scalp. "What's wrong?"

That's another thing that came with this imprinting thing. Harry could sometimes tell when Jacob was upset.

"It's nothing." Jacob dismissed and Harry leveled him with a stern look. Jacob was very weak when it came to Harry as well. "It's just that Bella's graduation is in a couple of weeks."

"I'm guessing you two still haven't talked?" Harry hasn't given Bella Swan so much of a thought since that fateful night and Jacob hasn't spoken about her. Until now of course.

Jacob looked anxious and Harry grabbed his hands so they wouldn't be twitching all about. "I haven't spoken to her in a whole month now. This is the longest it's been."

Jacob sighed and waffled their fingers together. "I'll probably never see her again after graduation. I at least want to make things right. I just want to apologize for what I said but I stopped calling her weeks ago."

Harry understood how it felt to lose friends, not under similar circumstances but he knew that sometimes mending a friendship meant that you'd have to be the one to step up and admit you're wrong. At least if he was at fault. "Well you do know where she lives, you can always just go there."

"I can't just show up unannounced, there's a ninety-eight percent chance her leech would be there with her. He's already given her shit about coming to see me before we argued. He thinks that we're dangerous, he thinks that we have no control, but I would never hurt her."

"If you're not going to call her then you don't have any other choice, Forks is fifteen minutes away. It's better to hash things out now before things are left unsaid. Remember when you told me, we'll cross that bridge when we get there? Well, love, the bridge is here."

"It's not that easy."

"Yes, it is." Harry insisted. "You just have to apologize and truly mean it and if she really is your best friend then she'll forgive you."

"I mean I could always go with you," Harry offered, and Jacob went rigid in his arms, like the very idea of that happening would cause the apocalypse.

"No. Absolutely not," Jacob snapped and before Harry could ask why Jacob was already lowering his voice and explaining himself. "I would take you with me in a heartbeat. I have no problem with my boyfriend meeting my best friend. In fact, that would make me really happy. If Cullen is there and I know he will be since he lives up her ass. Things might get ugly. I don't want you anywhere near the Cullens. I don't want you near any bloodsuckers."

"Jacob, you know that I might run into at least one of them during my stay here in Washington. It's inevitable."

"Not if I can help it," Jacob grunted.

"I'm not helpless. I've fought dragons. I'm not scared of vampires." Harry of all people would know their weaknesses and he were to face a vampire right now. He'd win. He never thought he would think this, but he was actually very happy that he had certain exes. He would have never learned so much.

"I know you're not afraid of them." Jacob smiled, proudly. "My imprint is tough. He's one of the toughest people I've ever met." His smile grew rough around the edges. "But that's beside the point. They think we're dangerous, I think they're dangerous. They are our natural enemies. So, I don't want you near them. So, if there is even the slightest chance of you encountering one of them, I'm not going to risk it."

"So, what if I need to go into town?"

"Then I'll come with you."

"What if you're on patrol?"

"Then Embry will come with you."

"What if you guys are on patrol together?"

"Then I'll send Quil or even Seth. Even so, the rez should have everything you need."

"Need I remind you that you're still in school along with more than half the pack."

"Then I'll ask Leah for a couple of favors."

Harry barked out a laugh. "She'd punch you in the face just for asking."

"It'll be worth it. Harry, you're worth it."

The conviction in Jacob's voice made Harry's heart melt but he still couldn't fathom having a bodyguard 24/7. "That's ridiculous. Jacob, you don't have to worry about anything. I could protect myself. In case you've forgotten, I know all about the Cullens. I know about their diet. I know they wouldn't hurt a human."

"They can't be trusted. I know what they are. I know what they always will be. Fuckin' bloodsuckers."

Harry was unphased and said ever so softly. "Trust me, love. I know."

"But still!"

"Jacob," Harry sighed. "What's the real reason?"

Jacob's expression melted away into something gentle.

"They hurt her," Jacob whispered lowly. "Especially him."

Harry knew Jacob was referring to Edward Cullen.

"I wish I could show you how Bella looked when Sam found her in the woods that day. She looked like she was going to fall apart, she had her arms wrapped around herself as if she was holding herself together. It was all downhill from there. She was depressed. It terrified Charlie and worried me too. It hurt me to see her that sad."

"I helped her through that. When he left and obliterated her entire world, I was there to remind her that everything wasn't completely over. I mean even Sam felt betrayed, even though he had no right to be. They left her for six months and didn't give two shits."

"Oh, babe, " He could tell Jacob was really beaten up about this. Harry combed a hand through Jacob's hair.

"I told you she jumped off a cliff for the leech, remember?"

"Oh yes, I remember," Harry said. That's when he decided she was absolutely beyond bonkers and past the point of saving.

"If they would have stayed away for another six months. Especially him, I could be hanging out with my baby and my best friend. Which would be fucking awesome."

"If she's so important to you, then you should make things right when you still can"

"I've given it some thought you know. Just not talking to her again, letting that leech sink his teeth into her and steal the soul of my best friend forever. It would hurt. It would hurt bad. But I have you so it wouldn't be all bad."

"Please don't pull me into this." Harry pleaded. "This is between you and Bella. You said it, I'm your boyfriend and she is one of your best friends. I really hope that you're not putting off your apology because of me."

Jacob scowled, ready to protest.

"Because it has nothing to do with me. You and Bella argued two weeks before I even showed up. I don't know this girl. What if having her in your life for whatever months or weeks that she has left as a human makes you happy, then I encourage you to make things right."

Jacob listened on but with a frown on his face.

"This was your first love; this is not something you could just put in the back of your mind and hope to forget about. You loved her and that doesn't mean you don't still love her platonically now that you've imprinted."

"Words hurt. You're the one who said you'd rather see her dead than become a vampire. You have to fix that. From what I can tell, she'll forgive you for this."

Jacob started to say something, something angry from his expression, but he stopped himself, took a breath, and began again. "You made a lot of valid points, babe."

"I did, didn't I?" Harry agreed, giving Jacob a small smile. "Look, I won't force you to do anything you don't want to, but if it were you: wouldn't you want to end your last moments as a human on good terms with your best friend?"

"Yeah."

"Well then shoot by her house this weekend and clear the air, right?"

"Yeah alright." Jacob sighed, resigned.

"Good." Harry pecked Jake's lips. "Enough with the angst. Tell me about your day."

Jacob grinned, happy for the change in topic. Before he could respond, someone hammered on the door to the garage.

"Put your pants on, ladies!" Embry's shout sounded far too eager.

Jacob groaned, letting his forehead hit Harry's. "What the hell does he want?"

Harry nudged him, drawing his attention. He kissed him again, a soft, sweet brush of lips.

Embry popped his head in and grinned like a Cheshire cat when he saw that the duo was fully clothed. "I knew you'd be here," he said cackling madly. "Jared owes me five bucks now."

Harry rolled his eyes. "Hello to you too, Embry."

"Hey there short stack," Embry replied, strolling over in his cutoff shorts.

Jacob looked ruffled due to being interrupted. "What are you doing here, dude?"

Embry put his hands on his hips. "You forgot, didn't you?"

"Forgot what?" Jacob asked, genuinely confused.

"We got double patrols because of the red-headed leech, man. We got south of the border."

Jacob groaned. "Since fuckin' when?"

"Last week." Embry shook his head and tutted a finger at Jacob disapprovingly. "Sam's been going easy on you since you imprinted. But now it's back to business."

"Right now?" Jacob was full-on whining now.

Embry was clearly enjoying it too. "Yeah, man."

Jacob scrubbed a hand down his face, making grabby hands at Harry who had just stepped away from him. "Come back."

"No, you guys should get going." Harry bounced over to press a quick kiss to Jacob's lips and then one to Embry's cheek. "I have to head over to the Clearwater's place anyway."

Jacob looked confused. "What for?"

"I'm helping Seth with his homework."

"The boy's in love." Embry sighed, placing a hand over his heart.

Harry gave him the finger as he left the garage. Little did they know Seth was shaping up to be his second favorite.

…

Charlie didn't talk to Billy every day. He did, however, try to make it a habit to spend every other weekend with him if he could and see him quite frequently during the week. Or at least try to give that excuse when he's really trying to see Sue.

He knew Bella and Jacob we're going through some things right now, but honestly, he thought that would be all set and done. They have argued before, and they have made up even quicker. But this one was different. When they were first fighting, about god-knows-what, having Charlie pass notes between them like some grade school kids, it didn't last long. Jacob called every single day and Bella being weak, she finally returned his call after maybe a couple of days.

It's been weeks though. Damn near a month.

Charlie knew this was different, Bella was sulking in her own special way even if she didn't want to admit it and Jacob, well he hasn't called at all. There was not one word about this situation from Billy and of course none from Jacob. Maybe Billy was in the dark just as much as him.

It was weird, normally Jacob didn't mind being joined at the hip with Bella. He understood that Jacob had a crush on his daughter, and he encouraged it. He wanted someone to give Edward a run for his money. They were teenagers, this stuff was supposed to happen.

Charlie knew not to think too much of it because he knew it would all blow over soon. Or at least he hoped. If they didn't want to involve him that was fine. He wasn't even gonna mention it, so he mulled over his thoughts as he took a generous gulp of his beer. He took a seat at Billy's small kitchen table.

"I was promised some grub." Charlie grouched playfully, looking at the empty table and then back at Billy who was looking forlornly at the clock. Charlie was surprised Sue wasn't cooking and he'd be lying if he knew where the food was supposed to be coming from.

"Yeah, I was too," Billy said. He looked towards Sue who was busying herself with a few lone dishes in the sink and asked, "When you spoke to Harry, did he say he'll be running late?"

Sue shrugged with a knowing smile. "Jake was over there with him when we spoke."

Billy scowled, but his lips were twitching into something of a smile too. Charlie couldn't quite tell. "Over there causing a distraction I bet."

"Harry?" Charlie asked, albeit carefully. He was pretty sure that the only Harry they knew was, unfortunately, six feet under. He snuck a glance at Sue who seemed perfectly fine.

Billy had the gall to look sheepish.

"Jake's boyfriend." Sue supplied cheerfully.

Boy? What? The sip of beer that Charlie chose to take at that moment went down the wrong tube and had him hacking up the remnants. Surely, he had heard that wrong.

Huh?

After nearly coughing out a lung, Charlie composed himself, grateful for the warm hand Sue had patted on his back. "His what?"

Sue happily repeated. "His boyfriend Charlie."

Charlie looked at Billy who didn't seem surprised at all.

"He's such a sweetheart," Sue gushed with a smile settling in on her face. "He came over Thursday to help Seth with his homework."

Yup. He heard that right. Boyfriend. As in not a girlfriend. Charlie blinked completely caught off guard and Billy blinked right back.

Sue's face fell as she looked between them. "You didn't know?"

Know? How could he have possibly known? He hadn't heard a peep about Jacob in nearly a month. Figured Bella and Jake were still working out their teenager issues.

"Bella hasn't spoken to Jacob in weeks," Charlie said slowly.

"Well," Billy said, shrugging. "Jake's got a boyfriend now and his name is Harry."

Charlie couldn't believe what he was hearing. Never in a million years did he think he would ever hear those words come from Billy's mouth so casually.

This was unreal.

"No." Charlie denied heavily," You're telling me the kid that I watched grow up, the kid that I know that has no interest in boys," he paused. "The one that has a crush on my daughter, your son, is gay?" Charlie shook his head eyes wide. "That's impossible."

"He's not gay Charlie," Billy said softly. "And even if he was that wouldn't be a problem."

Charlie was far from a homophobe. He believed in equality and shit but this right here was beyond a shocker. "Then what is he?"

"He's in love," Sue said breezily.

"Love?" Charlie choked out. "How long has this been going on?"

"Not long at all," Billy said shrugging, he looked at Sue who had her eyebrows pinched in thought. "Maybe about a couple of weeks."

"Weeks?" Charlie muttered shaking his head feeling strangely hurt that he didn't know sooner. In the past month, he's seen Billy quite a lot and there was nothing about this. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"There was nothing to tell and that's his business." Billy insisted and as much as Charlie didn't like that saying, it was true. Jacob's sexuality whatever it maybe was none of his business and who he dated wasn't either. "Jake's just got a boyfriend. The world keeps on spinning."

This wasn't really a big deal and Charlie knew that too. He watched Jacob grow up, loved the kid like his flesh and blood so he chose his next words carefully. He asked the only important thing and that mattered. "Is he happy?"

He watched as Sue and Billy shared a look. "He's the happiest I've ever seen him," replied Billy with a small smile. "Harry's the best thing to ever happen to him."

Charlie looked skeptical at such high praise. "Those are some bold words."

"Once you see them together, you'll agree," Sue suggested.

From outside Charlie heard the unmistakable rumble of the rabbit's engine, the car that Jake's been rebuilding and working on for quite some time now.

Sue clapped her hands together delighted. "Guess we won't be dying of starvation after all," she chanted jokingly walking towards the door.

She wrenched it open to holler at Jacob and his guest. Now Charlie didn't know what to expect, he hadn't had time to prepare, and even if he did, he didn't even know what he should be prepared for. This was so off-kilter that he had a feeling that whoever walked through that door with Jacob would be no one he expected.

He heard Harry before he saw him, voice fairly deep and unmistakably British followed by some laughter. So, it was very clear that Harry was not from around here. "I tried to get over here as soon as possible but Jake…."

"I'm sorry," Jacob was saying from outside, but very obviously not sounding very sorry.

"Oh, I know you're not," Sue snipped back playfully. "I'm glad Harry got here in one piece."

Jacob strolled in carrying two foil pans, black T-shirt stretched tight over his chest and broad shoulders, smiling big and bright. Charlie was sure he's never seen Jacob smile like that. Closely behind him, a figure followed and from the table first all Charlie could see was hair. Lots of it. Black, curly and messy.

"Hey Charlie," Jacob greeted him, all jovial and loud. He hadn't seen Jake in a couple of weeks and when he did last see him, he definitely wasn't in any type of mood to smile. Charlie guessed that he got out of whatever funk he was in. Which was great since Billy was really starting to worry.

Jacob stepped aside to place everything on the counter and Charlie finally got a good look at the guest of honor.

And wow.

He looked young, but there was a striking maturity about him that made him seem a lot older. He was wearing an old Washington state university sweater, that was no doubt Jacob's, ripped blue jeans and a pair of old converses.

He seemed short, but everyone did when Jacob was nearby, the kid towered over everything. Very intense green eyes met his own and Harry broke out into a sweet smile. The sweetest smile Charlie had seen in a while. He could see why Jacob might be smitten; he was a real handsome kid.

"Charlie, this is Harry," Jacob said beaming proudly, wasting no time to introduce him. With the foil pans on the counter, Jacob's hands were free, free to settle on Harry's waist from behind like they belonged there. He watched as Harry rolled his eyes fondly and patted them lovingly. "Babe, this is Chief Charlie Swan."

"It's nice to meet you, sir," Harry said, all well-mannered and respectful. Where did Jacob find this one? Charlie almost felt bad for not getting up and shaking his hand.

Almost.

"Likewise, son," Charlie replied and there was a beat of silence, but it didn't last long. There was no time for things to get awkward, which he was grateful for.

"Did Rachel leave for Emily's place already?" Jacob asked Billy.

"Yeah," Billy answered. "Her and Paul left about an hour ago."

"A whole hour ago, babe." Harry sniped.

Jacob shrugged. "They'll survive."

"The food smells great, Harry," Sue complimented while she opened the foil pans letting the smell of good old home-cooked food filled the room. Oh, boy, did it smell great. Charlie's stomach rumbled on its own accord reminding him just how hungry he really was.

"I helped," Jacob announced cheekily, chest puffed up.

"You grated cheese for the macaroni." Harry corrected, raising a hand to fondle Jake's hair.

"But it was a lot of cheese." Jacob ducked down to smother Harry's neck that was already riddled in hickeys in kisses before capturing his lips in a brief little kiss and Charlie's eyes went wide. It was one thing to know about it but seeing it firsthand with his own eyes put things in perspective.

When their lips broke apart, Jacob didn't straighten back up, he stayed there by Harry's neck with a satisfied smile and Charlie swore there was a goddamn sparkle in his eye.

There was this look in Jacob's eyes that Charlie remembered seeing it in his own when he first fell in love, but it was deeper. It's a look. It was always a look. It was intense but a person could hardly tell they were doing it anyway. It was involuntary. Part of the subconscious.

Wow. This was a thing. The kid was in love.

"Yeah, it was," Harry agreed, poking his cheeks "So thank you, love."

"Thanks for bringing it over," Billy said wheeling over to the table as Sue plated up the food for them. "I know the boys and Leah would inhale all of it without a second thought. So, thank you for thinking of us."

"No problem," Harry assured. "Anytime I cook I'll think of you guys."

"Were gonna head over to Emily's," Jacob said, spinning Harry around and heading for the door. "Don't wait up for me, I'm sleeping over at Harry's for the weekend."

Whoa. Surely Billy wasn't going to let that fly? Right?

"All right," Billy said waving a dismissive hand. Charlie's jaw nearly dropped. He'd let hell freeze over before he let Bella sleepover at the Cullens place with Edward there. "Just make sure you get your homework done."

"I'll make sure that he does," Harry called out from Jacob's arms and the taller boy snorted giving them a backward glance. "Bye." They called out in unison and then they were gone. Leaving just as quick as they came.

Charlie slumped back in his chair, raising the beer to his lips, he knocked it back. "Well, he seems nice."

Billy dug into his bountiful plate with a small smile on his face. "Yeah, he is."

If this was the reason why Bella and Jacob were not talking, he was very disappointed in Bella because that is not how he raised her at all. Renee was very liberal, open and accepting. Charlie although reserved, believed gay and lesbian relationships were fine because it wasn't any of his business. Someone else's sexuality was none of his business. Love was love.

He just thought it was very strange that Bella and Jacob haven't spoken in weeks, and that coincided with Jake's new-found relationship. Charlie didn't want to get involved but he was getting to the bottom of this tonight. He and Bella were going to talk.

I finally wrote an outline for this story as well so I know where I'm taking it but the outline I created is nowhere near as detailed as I prefer them to be. However, the updates for this story will be much more sporadic than for my other fic, Enough of Me.

Let me know what you think.