Author's Note: I cannot stress how awesome you guys are! Thanks for all of the reviews/favs/follows! This chapter is definitely longer than all the others. Enjoy!

Chapter 8

Jake took me back to his house while he went on patrol after we ate at Sam and Emily's. He was reluctant to leave me but I assured him I would be fine. Although I still felt anxiety, I would be strong for my protector. I put on as sincere a smile as I could while ushering him out the door. With one final glance, he headed off into the woods. I saw his wolf peek back at me from the tree line and I blew a kiss and winked. I laughed as Jake's wolf howled, tapping his front paw against the ground and wagging his tale before trotting off. He was too much.

I walked back in the house to begin preparing dinner, glancing in the refrigerator to figure out something. Jake said he loved steak, so steak it was for tonight, along with rice and broccoli, and for dessert, chunky chocolate cheesecake brownies, regular for Jake and sugar free for Billy, though I would never tell him that. I got to work preparing everything and soon, I was relaxing and waiting for the steak to finish cooking so I could put in the brownies.

I was relaxing on the couch when I heard the front door opening and heard the sound of wheels rolling in. I glanced to the side and saw Billy rolling himself in, tiredly. He smiled at me tiredly and I returned it.

"Dinner's almost done," I said as he wheeled himself over to me. Billy inhaled deeply, closing his eyes in bliss. The motion reminded me of his son.

"Smells great! What're we having?"

"Steak, rice, broccoli, and for dessert, chunky chocolate cheesecake brownies," I said grinning. Billy hummed in appreciation, looking around, cocking an eyebrow at me when he noticed my bags against the far wall. I suddenly felt nervous. "Uh, Jake thought it would be better if I stay here…with everything going on," I said awkwardly, averting my gaze from Billy's studying one. Oh boy.

"Those sure're a lot of bags. You sure you not movin' in?" Billy asked, a hint of amusement in his eyes. I couldn't stop the blush making itself to my face and shook my head. Oh no, we didn't clear it with Billy! What if he was against it?

I cleared my throat uncomfortably. "If you're uncomfortable, erm…that is, if you don't want me here – not because you don't like me or anything , I understand with Jake being your son– but I will respect your house and-" Billy held up a hand to silence my rambling and I was grateful. Nervous rambling never did me any good.

"I don't have a problem with you staying here," I exhaled the breath I didn't know I was holding and smiled gratefully, "but I do have some…requests." Requests? Oh boy…

"Uh…ok?" I replied, looking at Billy with confused interest.

Billy eyed me in a friendly manner. "First, I don't want you to be shy around here. Far as I'm concerned, this is your home 's well, regardless of how long you stay here." I felt my heart swell with emotion as I eyed the man. Billy accepted me as Jake's imprint, and I knew that would make my Jake happy. And if it made Jake happy, it made me happy as well.

"I can do that," I said, smiling genuinely. Billy returned it before continuing.

"Second, I know you and Jake are both adults and are in a relationship but I'd 'preciate it if you both'd not be all over each other, at least not while I'm home." My eyes widened and I fought the urge to bury my face in my hands. Billy was asking that we not do anything while in the house while he was home. Geez, Jake and I wasn't even at that stage yet! Oh God, so did that mean when Billy wasn't home everything was fair game? I felt my face heat up as I glanced at Billy, who eyed me awkwardly. Clearly I wasn't the only one uncomfortable with this conversation.

"Uh, sure Billy, I – we won't be doing anything." If this line of conversation continues, I'm going to need the earth to open and swallow me whole.

"And lastly," Billy said clearing his throat and eyeing me seriously, "I'm asking that you be there for Jake." I raised my eyebrows in question. Wasn't I already there for him? "He's been through a lot, which I'm sure he's told you about." I nodded. "I feel he's going to go through much more and he's gonna need someone he can talk to that he can trust."

I felt that protective urge emanate from my chest. I looked at Billy, determination written across my features. "I promise to be there for Jake, no matter what." Billy eyed me searchingly before smiling softly.

"Good. I knew I could count on you, Ash."

I grinned proudly, standing up. "Dinner should be finished. We can eat if you want while waiting for the brownies to bake. They don't take that long."

Billy nodded, following me to the kitchen. I took the steak out of the oven before adjusting the temperature and putting the brownies in. I fixed Billy and myself a plate and we both sat at the table.

"This taste's wonderful, Ashley. Jus' as always," Billy said, taking a bite of his steak. I smiled.

"Glad you're enjoying it. Jake told me steak is his favorite, so I figured I'd fix it for tonight."

Billy smiled softly. "Yeah, that boy'll eat anything, but he's always had a special love for steak."

I laughed in response before continuing to eat. Billy and I ate in silence. I eyed the older man through my lashes and he seemed to be deep in thought. I wonder what about? Hopefully he was fine.

"How's Sue?" I asked once the silence became too much.

Billy smiled sadly. "She's good, all things considered."

I nodded sadly. "Jake told me what happened."

Billy shook his head sadly, his eyes desolate. "It's a shame, really. Sue's handlin' the best she can, Leah, the poor girl is as pissed as a momma bear protectin' her babies, and Seth feels responsible for ole Harry's death."

I shook my head sadly. I hated to hear all of that. I really wish there was something I could do to help out.

We continued eating in silence. Once I finished, I put my plate in the sink and checked the brownies. Seeing as they were done, I pulled them out and placed them on the stove, letting them cool off.

"Those look delicious." I turned around and was Billy staring at the batches. I grinned.

"How 'bout I fix us both a glass of milk and we'll dig in?" I asked. Billy grinned, nodding enthusiastically. I poured us both a tall glass of milk before placing a sugar-free brownie on a plate for him and a regular one for me. I gave him a fork and grinned as he dug in enthusiastically. He immediately began fanning his mouth as he realized it was too hot and took a swig of milk. The action reminded me of Jake and I couldn't help but laugh. Billy glared at me playfully, making me laugh harder.

"I see where Jake gets it from," I teased. Billy chuckled.

"Sure, sure," Billy replied, leaving his brownie to cool off. "That boy's definitely more like me than he realizes." I nodded, smiling at the man.

"You guys definitely remind me of me and my mother. We're really close and no matter how much I try and deny it, I'm just like her."

"That's not a bad thing is it?"

I shook my head. "I used to think it was, but turns out it's not. I'd never tell her that, though. She'd never let me live it down if I told her she was actually right about something" I replied, my eyes twinkling in amusement.

Billy chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. "You kids are all the same. Drive your poor parents crazy is all you do. Just wait 'til you have kids."

I laughed. "My mom tells me the same thing. Though she'd be just like my grandmother and spoil my kids." I smiled at the memory. My grandmother and I were extremely close. She also spoiled me by giving me everything my mom said I couldn't have. Come to think of it, Billy would be that kind of grandfather, too.

"Is that where your Blackfoot blood comes from?" Billy asked.

I nodded. "Yeah, great-grandmother was full-blooded, making my grandmother half. I wasn't kidding Jake when I told him it was heavily diluted in my blood."

Billy looked thoughtfully. "Do you know much about your great-grandmother?"

I squinted my eyes in thought. "Not a whole lot. I know she was originally from Montana, but she and her mom fled when she was a little girl. Most of the tribe was slaughtered, I don't know why though. Something about a secret I think."

Billy cocked his head to the side in thought. "Do you know what that secret was?"

I shook my head sadly. "No. Jake said there may be something in the library here on the reservation, but it's not open to outsiders." I didn't want to tell Billy that Jake said he could probably get me in. I didn't want him to get in trouble.

Billy eyed me in mischievous amusement. "I'm sure we can make an exception for an imprint," Billy said winking at me and taking a bite of his now semi-cooled brownie. I grinned, also taking a bite of mine. I don't mean to brag, but these brownies are amazing. I know Jake will love them.

Before either of us could say anything, we heard a distant howl. Billy glanced towards the door in worry and I felt my heart drop. Billy sighed before continuing with his semi-cooled off brownie, his eyebrows furrowed in worry. I frowned, taking a bite from my own brownie, suddenly not finding it appetizing anymore. I couldn't help but worry about Jake and the others. Hopefully they were all okay.

Billy had gone to sleep since he hadn't rested well the previous night. I decided to wait up for Jake to come in. I showered and washed my hair before changing into a baggy shirt with baggy basketball shorts. Once done, I grabbed my laptop and began playing games to pass the time. When I was bored of that, I began working on a few reports I would need to finish for Monday. I had finished one report and was halfway through another before I heard the door open.

"You're still up?" Jake asked incredulously. I glanced at the clock on my computer and shrugged. It was after two in the morning.

"Yeah, I needed to get some work done," I said, yawning. Truth was I was not looking forward to the nightmares. "I kept dinner out for you, all in Tupperware dishes so you can heat it up easily. And I made brownies!"

Jake eyed me briefly before heading into the kitchen. I saved my work before shutting down my laptop and following my wolf into the kitchen. Said wolf was sitting at the table and, true to his form, Jake began to wolf down food, barely pausing to chew properly.

"You're not going to warm it up?" I asked, slightly disgusted with him eating cold food.

Jake shook his head. "Too hungry to," he replied, finishing off the steak. I laughed, shaking my head slightly. I grabbed the jug of water from the fridge and poured him a tall glass. He smiled in thanks and drank some. I couldn't help but admire his half naked form.

"How'd it go?"

Jake tensed and finished the mix of food currently in his mouth. He looked at me and I was slightly surprised to see frustration gracing his features. "We almost had her. We were so close." Jake sighed, reaching over and placing the now empty Tupperware down on the counter before grabbing the containers that held the brownies. He popped the top and grabbed one, biting into it. His eyes closed and he moaned in his throat. I knew he would love them.

"What happened?" I asked, sitting down next to him at the kitchen table.

Jake shook his head, popping the rest of the brownie into his mouth. "We had her cornered. One of her other leeches came out of nowhere and blindsided Seth, but he was able to recover. While we were distracted making sure Seth was alright, she fled up into the trees. Half of us tracked her, the other half tracked the other leech. We caught her minion, but we lost her." Jake sighed in frustration, clenching both of his hands into fists.

I stood up, wrapping my arms around his neck from behind him in comfort. "At least there's one less leech, right?"

Jake sighed, leaning back slightly and resting his head against my shoulder. "I guess. I just wish we'd gotten both of them." He exhaled sharply and turned his head to the side and into my neck, inhaling my scent.

"Don't worry, I know you'll get her next time," I replied. Jake didn't say anything, he just continued taking deep breaths, his nose buried in my neck. I gasped lightly, my pulse quickening as I felt his hot lips press lightly against my neck.

"So, what did you do while I was gone?" Jake asked, his face still buried in my neck.

"I had a very uncomfortable conversation with your dad about not having sex while he's home," I replied. I stifled the chuckle that threatened to escape my lips as Jake's head snapped from my neck and to my eyes in horrified disbelief.

"You what?"

I did laugh now, taking my arms from around my wolf's neck and sitting back down in the seat I previously occupied. "I think Billy just needed to clear the air, especially when he saw all of my bags."

Jake cocked his head to the side in thought. "Huh, only when he's home?"

I eyed Jake in disbelief. "We're not even gonna go there, bud. Besides, we haven't even had a first date yet."

Jake cocked an amused eyebrow. "So, after I take you on our first date we can?"

"Jake!" I said in embarrassment, my face heating up.

Jake chuckled. "I'm kidding, well kinda." My mouth dropped open and I stared at Jake in shock before he quickly added, "I mean, I'm not going to pressure you. I would never do that. I'm just saying, whenever you're ready, I will be, too."

"Good," I said, smiling at Jake. He really was a great guy. "Now, you need to get to bed. Tomorrow's gonna be a long day."

Jake stood up, grabbing my hand and pulling me up gently. "I could say the same for you."

"I'm not tired," I said quickly, inwardly cringing at how it sounded. I glanced at Jake and saw him eyeing me sternly.

"You can't just not sleep, Ash," Jake said, running circles on my hand. Oh really, wanna bet?

"I'll be fine, Jake," I replied. As soon as he was tucked into bed, I would be making myself a huge cup of coffee.

Jake stared at me and I stared right back. If this was a battle against wills, I was definitely going to win. After what seemed to be a few minutes, Jake huffed in annoyance and let go of my hand. I knew I was going to –

"Hey!" I squeaked out as Jake lifted me into his arms and carried me down the hallway. Oh, you don't play fair Jake. Not fair at all.

"At least rest with me," Jake replied sternly, making his way in his room. He laid me down on the bed before walking to his dresser, moving things messily out of his way. I reluctantly thought about how comfortable the bed was.

"But I'm not sleepy," I whined, failing miserably at stifling a yawn.

"Ha, here it is!" Jake said in triumph before walking over to the bed. He reached above my head, tying something to the bed frame.

"What's that?" I asked.

"A dreamcatcher. It'll help you sleep."

"Did you make it?" I asked, scooting over to make room for my wolf. Jake shook his head sadly.

"No, my mom made it for me when I was younger." I frowned, my arms wrapping around Jake in comfort. Jake wrapped his around me as well, drawing me closer to him. I sighed contentedly. I could get use to this. "It's one of the last things she gave me before…" He trailed off and I looked at him in understanding, my left hand moving to caress his beautiful face.

"It's beautiful, but do you think it'll work for me, handsome?" I asked, adding on the pet name. I was almost blinded by the smile that made its way to Jake's face. He gently grabbed the hand that was caressing his face and lifted it to his lips, kissing it softly.

"It definitely will," Jake said confidently, now moving my hand to rest above his heart. I smiled, resting my head on his large chest as he ran his hand up and down my back soothingly. Well, if he was so sure, I'd trust him.

I felt myself being slowly pulled from the tendrils of sleep as hot hands ran up and down my back soothingly. I snuggled deeper into my pillow as I hugged it closer, sighing in contentment. I heard a deep chuckle from beside me and I cracked one eye open. I was met with the smiling face of my wolf. Normally I would smile back, but I'm really not the nicest when I first wake up.

"I take it you slept well?" Jake asked, propping his head up with his left hand and using his right hand to run up and down my back.

I blinked in confusion. I slept? Without having a nightmare? I don't really remember having a dream at all, but not having a dream is better than having nightmares. I glanced at Jake.

"What time is it?"

"A little after eleven," Jake said, glancing at his alarm clock and turning back to me. Wow, I slept that long? I glanced up at the dreamcatcher thought. Did it really help me like Jake said it would? Jake glanced up to see where I was looked before shooting me a small smile. "I told you it would help."

I nodded, getting up and walking to the bathroom. I used the bathroom, washed my face, and brushed my teeth. I walked back to Jake's room, now awake and ready for conversation and laid back down, this time on my side, facing my wolf. Jake's hand now came to rest on my waist, running up and down my side. "What time's the service?"

"Starts at three. I figured we'd head there a little before then. My dad's over at Sue's again to help her make sure everything's in order."

I frowned slightly. "Does she need anything?'

Jake shook his head. "No, everything's in order. Since my dad's the chief, it's kinda his duty to make sure all is in order."

"I guess one day it'll be your job to do that?" I frowned as Jake looked at me, a bitter look on his face.

"Yeah, just like I'll have to be Alpha as well."

"What's so wrong with being Alpha?" I asked, genuinely confused at Jake's genuine distaste for the position.

Jake sighed. "There's nothing wrong with it, per se, it's just…I won't be good in that position." At my confused look, Jake continued, "I'm not exactly leadership material. Not only that, but I barely have enough time as it is with you, let alone everything I want to do."

I reached my hand out to caress Jake's face softly, and he responded by leaning into my touch. "Jake, I love the time we spend together, but I'd never come between you and your responsibilities. If anything, I would be here for you to help and encourage you, Jake."

Jake looked at me, his eyes reflecting every emotion he was feeling at the moment before moving his hand from my waist to under my chin and leaning down. I met him halfway and sighed in contentment as his soft lips met mine in a chaste, but tender kiss that still took my breath away.

"You're amazing, you know that?" He whispered against my lips before claiming them as his own. I know one thing, if we continue, I may have to break my promise to Billy. After all, Jake was a phenomenal kisser.

Before we could get too carried away, the doorbell rang. Jake sighed, lowering his forehead to rest against mine briefly before getting up and walking to the door. I got out of bed as well, mentally trying to piece together an outfit for the service. I walked out of Jake's room and towards the front room where all of my bags were currently stored. I froze in the doorway to the living room as I was met with the sight of Bella sitting on the couch, Jake sitting on the adjacent loveseat. Bella turned and stared at me, looking uncomfortable. I returned her stare without blinking.

I heard Jake clear his throat awkwardly. My gaze snapped to his and he looked between me and Bella warily. I mentally sighed. For Jake, I would be civil, so long as she didn't make him upset. My gaze shifted once again to Bella's who was currently staring at the floor.

"It's nice to see you again, Bella," I said, trying to extend the proverbial olive branch. Bella's gaze snapped to mine and I smiled slightly. She hesitantly returned it.

"Yeah, uh, good to see you again Ash…ley," she replied awkwardly.

"Are you hungry?" I asked, more specifically to Jake, but still addressing Bella.

"No, thank you," Bella said.

"You know it!" Jake said, grinning wolfishly. I laughed, walking into the kitchen, looking in the fridge and freezer.

"We're gonna have to go food shopping soon. Bacon cheeseburgers and fries ok?" I called out.

"Sounds fine to me!" Jake called out. I laughed, taking out the burgers, cheese and fries along with grease. I put grease in a pan waiting for it to heat up on the stove while throwing the frozen burgers in the other pan and the bacon in another.

"She spent the night?" I heard Bella ask Jake. I rolled my eyes. Really? Was she going to scold him?

"Is there something wrong with my girlfriend spending the night?" My heart fluttered and I smiled. I loved when Jake referred to me as his girlfriend.

"Only when you haven't known her for long," was the stark reply. I furrowed my eyebrows in thought and I began to add the fries to the grease. It's true, not only have we not known each other for very long, but we've only been officially dating for two days now. Actually, come to think of it, I feel like we've been dating since we've met, ever since we went to lunch that day. Not only that, but I feel like I've known Jake for forever. Jake was my first serious relationship, and I would do anything to ensure he remained a constant in my life.

"–bullshit! What I decide to do or not do with my imprint is my concern! You have no say whatsoever!"

I'm not sure what I missed, but it sounded like Jake was getting mad, which, in turn, started making me mad. I took a deep breath and turned the bacon as well as flipped the burgers while I got out the loaf of bread. I would remain calm. Jake could handle it. It's really crazy how in tune I am with his emotions. Was it because of the imprint?

"Just like it's none of your business what goes on in my relationship?" Bella asked matter-of-factly.

Silence.

"I only make it my business, Isabella, because I know what their kind is capable of! The last thing I want is for you to get hurt, or worse, end up one of them!" Her name was Isabella? That's a really pretty name.

"Has it occurred to you, Jacob, that maybe I want to be with him knowing that eventually I'll be bitten?" I shuddered at the thought. She actually wanted to be turned? What's wrong with her?!

I could literally feel the tension coming from the living room.

"You're willingly with him when you know what he's capable of?"

"I'm still friends with you even though I know what you're capable of."

Ouch. Low blow.

"You think I asked to be what I am? I am what I am because of your inconsiderate shit-head bloodsucker and his family of bottom feeders! They triggered the wolf gene! Now, because of them I'm stuck spending my life like this!" Jake was almost yelling now. I took the burgers up and the bacon along with the fries. Boy was I going to have to hit the gym after this.

"They didn't ask to become what they are either, Jake!" Oh God, why did she say that?

"So what? They're so miserable being leeches they decide to move back here, knowingly triggering the wolf gene and making us miserable as well? Please forgive me for being a prick and not finding a fuck to give, Bella," Jake said sarcastically.

"Is this how you're going to act once I turn, Jake?"

"Once you turn? You're planning on it?!" Please don't say yes, please don't say yes, please don't say yes...

"Edward proposed to me last night and I said yes. We're getting married after Victoria's dealt with. We've decided to wait until after our honeymoon to change me." Oh God, she said yes. This was bad. I'm pretty sure Jake was barely restraining himself.

Silence.

Please don't phase Jake, please don't phase Jake, please don't phase Jake…

"Better you really be dead than one of them," came the deadly serious reply.

Oh shit…. Time to intervene!

I walked into the living room to see Bella looking at Jake with stunned tears in her eyes, while Jake was leaning against the far wall, glaring harshly at the woman. I couldn't help but think he still looked extremely hot, even while pissed off. I cleared my throat, making both of the occupants acknowledge my presence.

"Food's done," I said quietly. Jake stormed across the room, bypassing me and walking into the kitchen. I frowned, glancing at Bella who refused to make eye-contact with me, which was probably for the better seeing as I was glaring at her for pissing off my wolf. She stood up then and walked by me.

"I'm going to Sam's," she said, still not looking at me, and walked out the door. I didn't say anything as I locked the door behind her. I walked back into the kitchen and was surprised when there was a plate with a made up bacon cheeseburger with fries on it. Jake had the rest on his plate and was eating with fierce abandon. Even when pissed off, he still manages to think of me. I sat next to him, digging into my food.

Neither one of us said anything as we ate. Once Jake was finished scarfing down his food, he glanced at me.

"Did you hear?"

I nodded, emptying some of my fries on his plate. I was starting to get full. "It was kinda hard not to."

Jake sighed, popping a fry in his mouth. "Just when I think we're making progress, this bullshit happens. You know what's ridiculous? Her trying to justify what they are! They had a choice, all of them! We didn't! I didn't."

I flinched as Jake banged his hand against the table and glared at his plate. I knew being a wolf was a sore spot with Jake, but I didn't know just how much.

"And what gets me most is those bastards knew what moving back would do, yet they did it anyway! And I'm supposed to sympathize with them? Fuck that! They get to live their lives, go where they want, do whatever they want whereas I'm stuck here with barely a high school education!" Jake seethed, breathing harshly now and trembling slightly.

I glanced at Jake sadly. My poor wolf wanted so much more for himself. "When all of this is over, we can get you back in school," I offered optimistically. After they dispose of the vampire, that'll free up a lot of time, right?

Jake sighed pitifully, shaking his head sadly. "I wouldn't even know where to begin, Ash. I mean, I barely got through high school due to all this vampire shit."

I eyed Jake in shock and awe, mixed with respect. "You phased in high school?"

Jake nodded sadly. "Senior year." Geez, my only worry senior year was what I was wearing to prom. I pretty much knew where I was going to college the end of my junior year. My mom was a stickler for education and made me do everything early. Not that I was complaining, or anything. In retrospect, I actually appreciate it.

"It's not too late," I said after a minute of contemplation. "After you kill the vampire bitch and her army, we can get you back in school!" I was excited now. Jake cocked an eyebrow at me.

Jake sighed. "It's been a while. I might not be school material anymore."

I frowned, eyeing Jake sternly. "Jake, there's no such thing as 'school material.' If you bust your ass, you do well. If you don't work hard, you won't do well. It's simple as that. Besides, I'll be there to help you with everything! And if you don't want to sit in a classroom, there's online school. We just have to make sure it's accredited so you're degree will be worth something, is all."

Jake glanced at me contemplatively, a gleam of hope in his intense dark brown eyes. "Really? You think it'll be worth it?"

I grinned. "Jake, anything worth having is completely worth it. We'll make the best of your situation. And so what if you can never leave La Push! We can just take vacations to get away! First place we should go is Jersey so you can meet my mom, though."

Jake gave me a half-smile. "Jersey, huh?"

"Yep!" I replied enthusiastically, standing up and collecting the dishes. "Oh, and I'll have to take you to New York City! You'll love it" I said, beginning to run the dish water. I absolutely love my home state as well as New York, and I knew Jake would love it too. Said man came up behind me and kissed my cheek, gently moving me to the side.

"You start getting ready. I'll do the dishes."

I nodded, going over to one of my many suitcases to figure out what I was going to wear. I found a black long-sleeved dress with a pair of black flats. I took a quick shower before throwing my clothes, and walked out of the bathroom so Jake could have his turn. I popped in my contacts and had just finished flat-ironing my hair when Jake exited the bathroom…wearing nothing but a towel, his skin still glistening from the shower.

I discretely watched him move gracefully across his room through the mirror, searching his closet for something to wear. I was entranced as his watched his muscles ripple underneath his smooth skin as he grabbed a pair of pants, eyeing them before literally throwing them back in the closet. Finally, my wolf settled on a pair of black slacks with a button-down smoke-grey shirt.

"See somethin' you like?"

I visibly jerked, my eyes quickly turning back to my reflection. I quickly tried to mask the guilty look on my face as I saw Jake approach me out of the corner of my eye. "Yeah, my hair," I answered lamely. "It's…really…growing out."

I watched from the mirror as Jake smirked knowingly at me before bending down to whisper in my ear. "Is that why your heart's beating fast?" My mouth widened and met his in the mirror, a mischievous smile on his face.

"You can hear that?"

He chuckled as he bent down to kiss my cheek walking out and back into the bathroom, calling out "Wolf hearing, remember?" This man was going to end me…and I was completely okay with it.

I lightly applied my make-up, satisfied when my smokey–eye came out even. I applied my burgundy lipstick next, rubbing my lips together lightly to apply it evenly. I checked myself in the mirror before applying a light perfume. I nodded once, walking out Jake's room and towards the front room. I smiled at Jake, who was waiting on the couch, flipping through channels.

"I'm ready," I said, grabbing his attention. Jake looked at me, his eyes running up and down my form appreciatively. I couldn't help but grin.

"You see somethin' you like?" I asked, mocking him from our earlier conversation. Jake stood up, walking towards me.

"Yeah, you're hair. It has really grown out," Jake said, smirking, making me laugh. At least he didn't sound like a geek when he said it. "Ready to go?" I nodded, grabbing his hand. We walked out and I recognized we were on the pathway leading to the beach.

"The service is on the beach?" I asked, looking up at the ominous clouds. It was definitely going to rain soon.

"Yeah, it's tradition," Jake said, pulling me closer so I was nestled under his right arm, his other hand in his pocket. "It culminates with the deceased's ashes being set afloat in a burial canoe. My ancestors relied heavily on canoes in the olden times. While we don't use canoes as much anymore, they're still used in burial ceremonies. It's representative of the journey to the beyond."

I hummed in response. It was really interesting learning about the Quileute culture. We continued walking towards the beach in silence. It was just nice being in Jake's embrace. I could really get used to this.

We made it to the beach where people were starting to gather. Fire burned on either side of an ivory colored altar by way of fire lamps, which contained an urn in the center. They must've cremated Harry. Me, Bella, and Charlie were the only outsiders present. I spotted Seth sitting with Sue and Leah on the front row. Billy sat next to them, along with Old Quil. Charlie and Bella sat in the middle rows between some people I didn't know. Most of the pack filled in the back chairs, which I guess was ideal in case they needed to make a break for it. Embry sat closer to the front, two rows behind Sue and her children. Huh, why was he sitting away from the pack? I glanced at Jake, and pointed it out. Jake just shrugged in response as we walked over to join the rest of the pack, greeting them before taking our seat.

Not too long after we arrived, every chair was filled and the ceremony started. Billy presided over the ceremony, along with Old Quil. They spoke in both Quileute and English, both talking about Harry and how wonderful a man he was. Charlie even got up to share a few words about his "fishing buddy" and how they both struggled raising daughters who were extremely strong willed, eliciting a laugh from most present. I fought off tears as Seth stood up to talk about what a father Harry was and how he hoped to be even half as wonderful a father as Harry was to him. Sue was the last one to speak, and this time, I couldn't stop the tears that fell from my eyes. She talked about Harry on such a loving way, telling stories from him courting her to when they started their life together. I was completely overwhelmed at the love she displayed for her deceased husband. Jake wrapped an arm around me and I leaned into his comforting embrace.

Billy then took his place in front of the altar, speaking only in Quileute while Old Quil walked around the altar with a long eagle's feather. At certain parts, Billy stopped speaking and Old Quil dipped the feather into, what I assumed, was water and flicked it on either side of the urn.

"It's a blessing," Jake whispered softly to me when I asked what was going on.

The blessing continued, Billy still speaking in Quileute. It would be really great if I could understand what was going on. Billy then gave what I assumed to be a command in his native tongue, given the authoritative sound. I, of course, had no idea what command he gave.

"Stand up," Jake said as he did so. I quickly followed suit. Billy began reciting something else and I looked to Jake in question. I saw Jake's head bowed reverently and I assumed it was a prayer, so I bowed my head as well. The prayer ended when everyone who understood responded in their equivalent of an "Amen". Old Quil grabbed the urn gently, holding it out for all to see, before walking towards the sea. Jake grabbed my hand and we followed behind the group of people who began following Old Quil.

We walked to the edge of the sea along with the crowd, where a beautifully crafted canoe was stationed. Everyone spread out so all present could see. Sue and her children were in the middle, along with Charlie and Bella. I stood next to Bella, Jake stood next to me, and the pack was dispersed randomly within the crowd. Billy was close to the canoe, still speaking in Quileute. Old Quil kneeled, placing the urn in the canoe before standing back up slowly. Jake let go of my hand and walked forward, along with Sam. They both pushed the canoe gently into the sea, watching as it drifted slowly.

The sky opened and began to rain lightly, almost as if the heavens were also mourning Harry's death. Slowly the crowd began dissipating, soon leaving the pack, their imprints, Bella, Charlie, Billy, and Sue.

"Come on, let's head back," I heard Charlie tell Sue who hadn't moved. She nodded, her eyes a mix of anger and emptiness. Billy followed, Charlie helping to push Billy's chair through the thick wet sand.

I glanced to the side and saw Seth and Leah, both leaning on each other for support. My heart broke for them. I couldn't imagine the sheer pain they must be going through at this moment. I glanced at Jake, who had finally turned around and was looking at Leah and Seth in sadness. I glanced around at out other occupants and noticed the entire pack plus Bella were looking at Seth and Leah in sorrow.

Sam sighed, running a hand through his wet hair. "We should get going. We have to prepare for later." Later? Oh right, they were meeting the…good…vampires tonight. "Leah, Seth, you can join when you're ready."

Seth nodded in understanding while Leah continued to stare angrily out at the ocean. Sam sighed, looking at Jake, Quil, and Embry "Make sure you guys are back at the house by eight." The three nodded in sync, showing they understood. Sam left, along with Emily, Jared, Kim, and Paul, leaving Seth, Leah, Embry, Quil, Bella, Jake and myself.

We stood in silence for a while, not knowing what to say. Leah just looked so angry and broken and Seth looked plain sad. I walked over to both Leah and Seth, putting a comforting hand on Leah's shoulder, and wrapping an arm around Seth's torso. Seth leaned into me, resting his head lightly against my shoulder and silently crying. Leah, on the other hand, didn't pull away, but she also didn't acknowledge the contact.

Quil sighed, running a hand through his cropped hair. "This shit sucks." Jake nodded in agreement.

Embry, who I noticed was watching Leah closely, spoke. "I'll be glad when we catch that bitch."

"I couldn't agree more," I said, shaking my head sadly. This vampire bullshit had to go. Too many people were getting hurt.

"I'm sorry," Bella said. I glanced at her and noticed her looking at the ground sadly.

Leah laughed bitterly, shaking her heads slowly. "This is all your fault," she said through clenched teeth while glaring at Bella. Bella flinched, her watery eyes snapping up to look at Leah.

"Leah, I never meant for any –"

"Of course you never meant for any of this to happen!" Leah said, tensing under my hand and walking to stand a few feet in front of Bella, making my hand drop from her shoulder. Is it just me or did her skin feel hotter? "It doesn't change the fact that it happened."

"Lee-lee," Seth said in warning, breaking out of my embrace and grabbing his sister's arm. Leah snatched it out of his grasp.

"No, Sethy! It's her fault dad's dead! It's her fault we phased! It's her fault Jake's imprint got attacked and is now afraid to sleep!"

Hey! I've gotten better! I actually slept pretty well last night…

"Everything is all her fault!" Leah yelled as she let out a roar, her form trembling.

"Get back!" Jake called as Leah phased. Bella moved just in time, falling to the side to avoid Leah's claws. My mouth dropped open in shock. I knew they were wolves, but I had never seen them change. Holy Shit! This was unreal!

I blinked as Jake practically teleported in front of Bella. How is he that fast?! "Leah, calm down!" He said, raising his hands in a placating manner. I couldn't help but to move back slowly, suddenly feeling uncomfortable. Shit was getting too real for my tastes.

I heard Bella whimper and Jake turned his head, his eyes still trained on Leah. "Bella, get out of here. Seth, go with her." Seth nodded, grabbing Bella and walking off.

"Leah, relax!" Embry called, making Leah snap her gaze towards him. "Leah, please," he said, walking towards her. I watched in awe as Leah seemed to calm down for a second. I watched them closely, my eyebrows furrowed in confusion. Embry was looking at Leah the same way Sam looks at Emily…the way Jared looks at Kim….the same exact way Jake looks at me.

I gasped, my hand raising to my mouth as I put the pieces together. "Embry, did you im-?"

I never finished what I was trying to say since Leah growled and snapped her teeth at me. I let out a squeak as I stumbled back, falling in the sand in the process. I thought they were only fierce with vampires!

Before I could stand up, my vision was filled with russet fur. Since when had Jake phased? My wolf stood over me protectively, growling in warning. Just then Jake's head snapped to the side as another wolf joined in. Glancing around quickly, I was able to deduce that the phased wolf was Embry. Embry was now growling and snapping at Jake in warning, Jake doing the same in return. Leah, on the other hand, now looked bored.

Quil now joined in the wolf party, standing between Jake, Embry and Leah. Something seemed to pass through the group silently and I watched with piqued interest. I would love to know what was going through their minds. Jake moved from in front of me then, turning around to look at me, his eyes roaming over my form.

"I'm fine, Jake," I said, lifting my right hand, hesitantly reaching out. Would he mind if I touched him? I slowly extended my hand and touched his head. I smiled as he closed his eyes. He was adorable. I wonder if he'd ever let me rub his belly.

"Leah wouldn't hurt me, right?" I asked in the direction of the smaller wolf, albeit with a tremble in my voice. Jake opened his eyes and glared fiercely at Leah as well. Leah nodded her head, looking apologetically at me. I tried to smile, but it came out as more of a grimace. The truth is she definitely scared me. I knew she wouldn't hurt me, at least with Jake present, but what if he wasn't here to protect me?

I glanced at Jake who looked at me worriedly. I smiled genuinely at him. "Let's head back. You have a meeting to prepare for, right?" Jake nodded, still eyeing me.

I glanced at my wolf and couldn't help feeling drawn to him, his power, his finesse, his gracefulness. I knew with Jake I would always be safe, and, in the back of my mind, I knew Jake would always be safe with me.

I began walking, Jake walking in his wolf form beside me and the other wolves bring up the rear. I couldn't help the feeling that this was how it was supposed to be, Jake leading with me by his side, and the others following his lead.

Author's note #2: Hey,hope you enjoyed this chapter! Enjoy your week you beautiful people!