Disclaimer: The Twilight book series and all recognizable characters and situations belong to Stephanie Meyer I don't own any of that. But I do so love her stage.

**Please see the authors note at the end of this chapter for info and acknowledgements***

Chapter two: Pomp and Circumstance

Twenty Six years later

Mesquite University School of Medicine
Scottsdale, Arizona

Leah's POV

There is a palpable sense of excitement in the air. All around me roll upon roll of my fellow graduates sit distinguished in their black caps and gowns. I have had an amazing time here at Mesquite full of ups and downs. I have met some genuine friends, and enjoyed the "college experience". Arriving on campus four years ago, I had no idea what to expect. I still remember collecting freebies at the new student fair….

"Graduating with honors, Doctor Leah Clearwater." Dean Jamison has announced my name. This is my moment! I am slightly nervous balancing on my four-inch heels as I sashay toward the stage. Loud cheers and whistles erupted from the crowd. I even hear a bull horn. "Go Leah," I can distinguish Seth's voice even from here. He flew down early with mom to attend my hooding ceremony. The kid cried when I recited the Hippocratic Oath.

Many of the people I consider family are here, the elders, the packs, the Blacks, The Uleys, and more than a few friends. Quite frankly, I appreciate everyone being here. A few years back some of us weren't on speaking terms. It all started around the time my ex-fiance the Alpha Sam Uley and I had a messy break up. It was a devastating time for me. Things have gradually changed for me and mine. They encouraged me to begun this journey. And they are here today with me to celebrate the culmination of it.

I waved at them setting off a new barrage of camera flashes, cheering and crying babies, as I left the platform and took my seat. It's so surreal that I am a doctor! "As I send you out into the world of your respective disciplines, one word sums up how I feel: humbled. I certify you are now official graduates of Mesquite University School of Medicine congratulations," President Hayden has concluded his closing remarks and it's time for the recessional. What's next for Leah Clearwater? I will spend time vacationing in New York, before returning home to start my residency at Forks General Hospital.

Mom and I have a per-arranged site to meet up and I slowly made my way over. Seth was the first to spot me. He lifted and swung me around in the air offering congratulations. As soon as my feet hit the pavement I ran over to hug my mother. She held me like she didn't want to let me go. The elders and packs greeted me. Jacob Black pretended to wrestle me to the ground. The Uleys hung back a little uncertain how I would receive them. "Hello Emily that must be Levi," I said referring to the toddler she was holding. Sam looked relieved. Couldn't they let it go already? Yes I used to love Sam. He will always have a place in my heart. Am I still in love with him? No! I have moved on.

Losing Sam was the catalyst for where I am today. He left me for my cousin Emily just before I learned I can phase into a giant wolf. Things got worse when I had to join a wolf pack led by none other than Sam. Once I learned my pack brothers and I are telepathically linked, I fell apart. I know people break up all the time. But, I had to be constantly in the pack mind, watching episodes of the Sam and Emily show.

Back then my pack brothers were too inexperienced to help me cope. I ended up alienating them with my constant grief and acting out. I had a reprieve when an internal conflict split the pack in two. I joined the outcast pack led by Alpha Jacob Black. It was just three of us, Jacob, my brother Seth, and me. The dispute resolved itself when the packs had to work together during the Voltouri confrontation.

Things settled down after that. I poured all my energy into accelerated online classes and completed my undergraduate degree in just two years. I was accepted into several graduate schools, but Mesquite was the best fit .

Emily practically forced Levi into my arms. He is a striking kid with long hair and eyelashes a model would envy. Embry rushed over to introduce me to Levi's twin Lily. Apparently Embry imprinted on her when she was hours old. A little small talk and we walked to the parking lot to head over to the graduation party.

Unknown Pov

The La Push packs geared up for a celebration that evening. It's not everyday one of your own becomes a doctor. Let's hope they enjoy that last bit of normalcy. Forces were already in play that would change their lives forever.

Authors Notes:

First of all I want to thank everyone who left reviews. I greatly appreciated hearing from you. Guest reviewer asked if the baby is Leah's imprint. I can't give away the plot but I will say he plays a significant part in the story.

Please bear with me while I catch up on everything that happened since Breaking Dawn. I realize this is a short chapter but I had to cut it off here. Next chapter is the graduation party and some important back-story to the whole plot will be revealed.

I need another chapter and a half before I introduce the La Push packs to the greater shifter world.

Please feel free to review and let me know how I am doing. All for now=).