Author's Note: I cannot stress how awesome you guys are! Thanks for all of the reviews/favs/follows! Also, thanks for sticking with me. Real life has been nuts! This chapter has a bit more language than the others, just a FYI. Anyway, enjoy!
Chapter 9
It had been a month since the meeting with the Cullen's.
The morning after the funeral was rough. Jake had been out until after two in the morning and I had work the next day. My wolf had dropped me off at Sam's and Emily's until he returned. Of course, as soon as we got there Sam was none too pleased and pretty much chewed out Leah, Embry, Quil, and Jake. It was actually quite humorous watching a human Sam fuss with four huge wolves. At first I felt bad for the wolves, at least until I caught a glimpse of their faces. Quil had a goofy smile plastered on his face, his tongue hanging lazily out of his mouth; Embry looked on in amusement; Leah was rolling her eyes and looked as if she were staring right past Sam, not hearing a word he was saying; and Jake was making funny faces at me every time Sam's gaze moved from him, and I was doing my best to not laugh. He was such a goofball.
Eventually the wolves were off, and I was left with Emily and Kim, who were very good company. Emily kept me entertained with stories of the wolves, as well as stories of Harry Clearwater. From all of the nice things people were saying about him, I really wish I had gotten to know him. Kim, at first, barely said anything, but eventually she warmed up to me and we began talking and joking around. Seriously, no one could resist my Jersey girl charm.
Soon, the pack returned, all looking tired and worn from the day. Jake, who now wore a pair of jean shorts (who I later found out he borrowed from Quil who apparently had an extra pair), looked exhausted. My poor wolf. Upon seeing me, Jake began apologizing profusely for the meeting taking so long. I reassured him that it was fine, not wanting to stress him out any more.
The following day at work was by far the worst day I've had thus far. My day was booked with nothing but meetings and I wasn't able to get much work done. The highlight of my day was Jake coming to pick me up in my car. My window was fixed and it was as shiny as the day I received it. Jake told me he gave it a wax job and detailed it for me and I couldn't help myself as I attacked him with kisses. In the past, I wasn't much for PDA, but I could make an exception for Jake. Apparently, my enthusiasm had awoken something in Jake because when we got back to the house, my wolf practically carried me off to his room for a very brief make-out session. The only reason it was brief was because Billy decided to come home roughly two minutes after we made it in the house. Jake was, of course, upset and I promised to make it up to him later, preferably after a good night's sleep. Of course, with Jake's erratic patrol schedule and my hectic work schedule, later never came.
Recently though, Jake's been in constant thought. I had tried on multiple occasions to get him to talk to me, but he refused. Not only that, but I would catch him watching me in deep contemplation before staring into space. I was starting to think I did something wrong, but I just didn't know what. Maybe he was tired of me being around? I was invading his space after all. Maybe it would be better if I just went back home…
…but then again, maybe not. Jake seemed genuinely happy for me to be here, and to be honest, I enjoyed being here. Not only that, but I felt safe. Billy was great company, especially after he'd had a few drinks and his favorite team was losing. Needless to say, I've definitely expanded my vocabulary…and developed some abdominal definition in the process from laughing so hard.
Jake was also constantly under me, not that I was complaining. I was thoroughly enjoying the affection he was giving me, and I'm sure he enjoyed the affection I was giving him. I couldn't stop the grin that made its way to my face at the thought of my wolf. Jake was such a wonderful guy, a little immature at times, but wonderful none the less. I'm not sure why the spirits destined us to be together, but I couldn't be happier. Every day, Jake and I grew closer and closer and I soon realized my feelings were growing deeper for my wolf. While I knew I wasn't in love, I also knew I wasn't far from it.
I frowned at the ceiling in the living room. It was pouring rain and gloomy outside which hindered me from going anywhere, not that Jake wanted me going anywhere without him anyway. My wolf was currently on patrol and Billy was out meeting with Sue, who took Harry's position on council, and Old Quil. I clearly needed to make some friends. I was relying on Jake way too much for entertainment. Maybe Leah and I could become friends? She did apologize to me the day after Harry's funeral. She did seem really nice…in a bitch-y kind of way. I told her I knew she didn't mean to scare me, but there's something unnerving about a huge wolf snarling at you. Granted Jake was bigger than Leah, but he's never snarled at me. Then again if he did, he'd be in big trouble. Still, even with Leah snarling at me, I'd still rather be with wolves than vampires. I've always been a more of a canine person. Plus, Jake was adorable when he phased and amazingly hot when not phased.
Speaking of my wolf, the front door opened and Jake came in, wet from the rain. God, he was hot. My wolf was shirtless as usual with a pair of jean shorts. He saw me sitting on the couch and sat next to me before laying his head in my lap. I began massaging his rapidly drying scalp, making him sigh contentedly in response, closing his eyes. If he was a cat, he'd be purring right now. We sat in silence, both of us seemingly lost in thought.
"So, how'd it go?" I asked.
"S'ok, nothing interesting happened," Jake said lazily, nuzzling into me. He was probably really tired.
"Well, no news is good news, right?"
Jake grunted. "Probably. I just hate all this waiting."
"Could you imagine how Bella feels?" I asked, gently tugging on my wolf's hair, making him groan lowly, his teeth biting his lower lip. So, he enjoyed me playing in his hair? "She's probably freaking out with all this waiting, especially since it's after her."
"Bella's not freaking out, she's used to attracting supernatural shit. Besides, she knows the pack'll protect her." Jake said, breathing deeply.
"What about the Cullen's?" I asked. "They'll protect her too, right?" I didn't like vampires, but shouldn't they take some responsibility, too? There was something unnerving about the responsibility resting solely on the pack.
Jake growled slightly. "It's their fault she's in this situation now! If she would've just listened when I first tried to warn her about everything, she wouldn't be in this shit."
I frowned in thought. "That's true, but if Bella listened, you and I wouldn't be together right now, right?" Jake's eyes opened and he looked at me, frowning. "I mean, you guys would probably be dating right now."
"I would've still imprinted on you."
I stopped tugging his hair. "Yeah, but we probably wouldn't be dating. Either that, or we would've ended up in a situation like Sam, Leah, and Emily." I ignored the pang in my heart as I spoke. I honestly couldn't imagine myself without Jake, and I guess my heart agreed.
Jake sat up, taking my face in his large hands and looking at me seriously. "Let's not think about that." Jake said, kissing me lightly on my lips. "Besides, even if she did listen to me, you and I are made for each other. We would've been together, regardless."
"Yeah, but if I forced you away from a relationship, I would've felt horrible." I refused to be a home-wrecker, regardless of the circumstances.
"Let's not think about that, okay? All that matters is you're made for me and I'm grateful that you got lost in La Push that day. You have no idea how much I prayed that I would imprint on someone just to take away the pain I was feeling."
"So did it work?" I asked Jake, smiling shyly.
Jake grinned. "What do you think?"
I giggled in response. "This imprint thing is really strong, huh?"
"You have no idea," Jake said, staring intensely into my eyes. My breath hitched in my throat as I saw the raw emotion reflected in his eyes. He was staring at in in awe, wonder and…desire? I felt my pulse quicken as his face moved slowly towards mine, his eyes flicking from my eyes to my lips. Slowly, he moved towards me, capturing my lips in a kiss. I readily replied, my hands lazily tangling in his hair and his wrapping around my waist, pulling me closer.
I was surprised when I felt Jake's tongue gently lick my lower lip. This was new for us, but I was more than happy to oblige. Jake snaked his tongue between my slightly parted lips and…holy shit...Jake tongue was working magic against my own. I couldn't help the moan that escaped my lips in appreciation.
When the urge to breath became too much, Jake broke the kiss, moving to my neck. I cocked my head to the side, my chest heaving from a mixture of breathlessness and excitement as Jake gently sucked on a particularly sensitive spot on my neck. I pulled none too gently on his hair making Jake moan in response. I swear that was the sexiest sound I've ever heard in my life.
Before I knew what was happening, I was down on my back with Jake on top of me, his weight mostly being held up by his left forearm while his right hand caressed my belly-ringed navel and his right leg resting between mine. Jake's lips now moved from my neck, to along my jaw, before finally reclaiming my mouth again, this time with more confidence. I knew I was going to have a hickey, but I didn't care. There was something…exciting…about being marked by my wolf.
Jake broke the kiss once again and stared intensely into my brown eyes, his face mere inches from mine. I tried my best not to pout; I really didn't want him to stop, but I knew if he didn't stop himself, I wasn't going to stop him. Jake's right hand still caressed my navel and I couldn't suppress the pleasurable shudder that ran down my spine.
"You have no idea how long I've wanted to do that," Jake said, his breathing slightly labored.
"You have no idea how much I enjoyed that," I said, grinning widely while trying to catch my breath. Jake was a helluva kisser. "If you keep it up, I may have to rethink my promise to Billy," I said jokingly. Jake chuckled before leaning in a kissing me chastely. I sighed in contentment, my arms wrapping lazily around his neck, stroking it softly.
"I won't tell if you won't," Jake said wiggling his eyebrows and making me giggle.
"As tempting as that sounds, I don't want our first time to be on a couch in your living room," I deadpanned.
"My room's in the back," Jake said, "or would you prefer the Marriott?" Jake said jokingly. I glared playfully at him making him laugh. "Just kidding…about the Marriott thing…and kinda about the room thing. Unless you want to…"
"Not yet," I said blushing slightly. "But if you keep running around half naked, I may have to take you up on that offer."
Jake grinned mischievously, his hand slowly massaging circles around my navel. "Does my being half naked make you hot and bothered?" I blushed even more in response making Jake's grin spread even wider. "I knew you would find me completely irresistible."
"Jake!" I said burying my face in my hands. I felt myself blush more as Jake started laughing. I seriously felt like a schoolgirl with her crush.
I felt Jake shift more on his side as his hand left my belly. Gently, Jake pried my hands away from my face, his face full of amusement. "Babe, it's okay. I'd be lying if I said my thoughts about you were pure. The pack gives me shit about it all the time."
My mouth hung open as I looked at Jake in slight horror. "The pack sees what you think about me?" Oh God, it's embarrassing enough that I know Jake thinks about me…like that…but knowing that the pack knows and sees Jake thinking about me like that is…mortifying.
Jake shrugged nonchalantly. "Pack mind, remember? The only one who can halfway control his thoughts is Sam, and even he trips up at times."
"You mean," I started slowly, making sure I understood, "when we actually take the next step in our relationship, the entire pack will see?" Jake nodded in response, now looking at me in slight worry.
Oh God, I was gonna be like Kim Kardashian! Except…you know…smarter and not as rich.
I hid my face in my hands once again. "I'm gonna be a porn star for wolves," I said dejectedly. Jake laughed heartily, kissing my forehead and pulling me closer to his chest. Of course Jake would find it funny, he runs around half-naked after all.
"Stop being so dramatic!" Jake said, shaking me gently while removing my hands from my face once again and laughing lightly.
"Easy for you to say! You have the body of a hot male stripper!" I said, laughing as the words exited my mouth. Jake's grin faltered slightly and he stared at me in slight shock before bursting in laughter. I couldn't help but laugh along with him. His laugh was really contagious.
"I can't believe you just said that!" Jake said, trying to compose himself. "A hot male stripper, Ash? Really?" I shrugged, looking at my wolf in amusement. I made a mental note to make Jake laugh more; it was really becoming on him.
We continued to laugh, talk, and joke around for a while, Jake telling me some of the pack business and me telling him what was going on at work. We ended up ordering pizza, making sure to leave some for Billy, before retiring to Jake's room for the night. Jake slept in a pair of shorts and I threw on a tank top and biker shorts, but I had plaid flannel pajama pants I would put on when Billy was home, couldn't have him thinking me indecent. I would've slept with them on, but sleeping with Jake is like sleeping with your own personal heater.
Tonight, instead of me laying my head on my wolf's chest and letting his heartbeat lull me to sleep, Jake curled behind me, one arm out for me to lay my head on and the other wrapped around my waist. His entire length pressed against me and he kissed my neck before falling right to sleep and I soon followed.
I was awaken from my slumber by a howl in the distance. Before I could comprehend what was happening, Jake's body was over mine protectively, his eyes wild and his breath was ragged as he scanned the room for any form of a threat.
Another howl sounded in the distance and this time Jake's head snapped towards the window. I furrowed my eyebrows in confusion as I tried to erase the haziness of sleep from my mind.
"It's Sam, something's going down. Stay here," Jake's gruff voice said before he upped and jumped out of the window. I sat up, looking around in confusion. What in the world was going on?
I yawned and stretched before getting up to use the bathroom, turning on the light on the way. After finishing and washing my hands I walked to the kitchen, frowning as I saw the pizza was still sitting out. So Billy wasn't home yet. I glanced at the clock and saw it was well after midnight. Maybe he would be home soon. Shrugging, I put the pizza in the fridge and grabbed a glass, pouring me some water. I was on my way back to Jake's room after drinking the water when I heard the distinctive sound of the floor creaking. I paused, trying to listen in. Maybe the creaking is from the house? It is old after all. I shrugged, walking to the back and in Jake's room, closing the door to make myself feel more at ease.
Instead of laying back down, I sat with my back against the wall and my knees drawn up to my chest. I was suddenly getting an eerie feeling. I grabbed my glasses and put them on. My eyes scanned Jake's room, looking for anything that seemed out of place. So far, I couldn't spot anything. Maybe I was just being paranoid?
I jumped and squeaked as I heard a crack of thunder. I shook my head, laughing nervously at myself and my paranoia. Hopefully Jake or Billy would be back soon. I really didn't want to be here alone.
Outside, I could hear the rain coming down followed by another burst of thunder and now a flash of lightening. The lights flickered precariously which set my nerves on edge even more. The last thing I needed was the lights to…
Sonuva bitch! I just jinxed myself! I reached over and grabbed my cell phone for light. Part of me wanted to curl up under the covers like I did when I was younger in order to ward off monsters that weren't there. However, now that I knew monsters were real, I doubt a comforter was enough to keep me safe. What I needed was my wolf, but he was out.
I took deep breaths, trying to calm my racing heart. Maybe I should lay back down and try and sleep so Jake'll be here when I wake. I timidly laid back down, placing my phone back on the nightstand and removing my glasses. I turned over, my back facing the window as the thunder sounded once again. Lightning struck, lighting up the room, followed by a roar of thunder. This time, however, the thunder kept sounding. I realized that it wasn't thunder this time, someone was knocking on the door. Should I answer it? What if it was Emily or Kim? Or worse, what if it was one of the wolves coming to tell me Jake's hurt?
My mind made up, I quickly went to the door, looking out one of the windows. I was shocked to see no one standing there. My nerves were suddenly standing on end. I've seen way too many horror movies, and therefore, have conditioned myself to stay alive when faced with such problems. Of course, I've never actually had to use my survival skills, but they're there.
I quickly made my way to the kitchen, looking for something to defend myself, just in case the time called for it. I walked towards the kitchen to –
"Ashley?"
I screamed and, letting pure instinct take over, swung my right fist at the source of the intrusion. I was pleased that I connected, but it was short lived as I was instantly writhing and moaning in pain. The fuck did I hit? A brick wall?
"I really wish I knew you were going to do that," a feminine voice deadpanned. I glanced up and was met with the concerned gaze of Bella's vampire, Edward, as well as a black haired woman with a pixie haircut. By the coloring of her eyes and her paleness, I knew that she was the same as Edward. I don't recall seeing her that day I was attacked though, maybe she was new?
"Jake's gonna be pissed," I managed to ground out through gritted teeth. I think I broke my goddamned hand! I flinched away as the black haired woman bent to touch my hand. She was cold as ice! She was an extremely stark contrast to my wolf.
"We haven't got time to waste," she spoke, looking directly in my eyes. "Victoria's attacking tonight and she's sent someone here to La Push for you. "
I looked at the woman in pain (do to my throbbing hand) and horror. For me? What did I do? "Does Jake know?" I asked. I'm sure if he didn. he wouldn't have left. Also, what about Billy and the imprints? What about the entire reservation? They were all technically unprotected at this point.
"Jasper has left to inform them," Edward said. "Come on, you're coming with us."
Excuse me? "Where are we going?"
"To safety," was Edward's reply before freezing suddenly. "Alice, I hear him!" Edward's head snapped around before landing looking into the dark hallway I had made my way through not even five minutes ago. I heard the sound of footsteps walking harshly on the wooden floors. I couldn't help the cold shudder that ran down my back and I subconsciously moved closer to Edward and his counterpart. I tried not to whimper, as I took controlled deep breaths to calm myself. The last thing I needed was a panic attack.
I may not have my glasses on, but I sure as hell didn't need them to see the vibrant red eyes that stared through the darkness. Slowly, the figure emerged and my mouth dropped open in shock. Was that the missing guy who's been all over the news?
"Is that Riley?" I whispered to Edward as I eyed the intruder warily. The red-eyed vampire smirked at me and I was completely unnerved by it.
"Yes," was Edward's simple response. If Riley was now a vampire, then did that mean all of the missing people flashing across the news were vampires as well? I guess Victoria really wasn't joking when she said she had an army.
The intruder eyed my form hungrily. I instantly felt vulnerable so I scooted more behind Edward. Riley smirked, still eyeing me. "Victoria wishes to speak with you."
I shuddered, watching the intruder in fear. Why does she want to "speak" with me? And by speak, I'm assuming she really wants to feast on my blood.
"That's not going to happen, Riley," the woman I heard referred to as Alice said, standing next to Edward and blocking me completely from Riley's view.
"Riley," Edward stated calmly, "Victoria's just using you."
"Shut up! She told me about your mind games, Cullen," Riley said, sneering at Edward.
"Think about it. You're from Forks. What would someone like Victoria need from someone like you other than for help with the area?" Edward said. I must agree that he makes a powerful point.
Silence. Huh, maybe Edward had gotten through to Riley.
"I'm taking the girl, and you're dead."
Then again, maybe not…
I'm not sure what happened, all I knew was one moment I was standing behind Edward and Alice, the next, I was on the ground being covered by Alice. I heard a loud noise, almost like tractor trailers colliding before feeling a rush of air pass over me followed by another loud bang.
Alice sat up, helping me up as well. My mouth fell open and I stared in horror as I saw the front door hanging off of the hinges. Holy Shit! That could've been me! Except I wasn't as resilient as the door.
"Come on! We have to go, now!" Alice said. She threw me over her shoulder none too gently, knocking the air out of me, and took off. I was breathing shallowly as I tried to catch my breath. I'd really appreciate it if they could be a little gentler. I also wish I had some pants on…and shoes for that matter. This rain was friggin' cold!
I glanced up and immediately regretted it as all I saw were blurs around me. I put my head back down, still breathing shallowly. Great, not only was fighting to catch my breath, but I was also fighting nausea. How fast were we going? If we were moving this fast, why couldn't that asshole move when I swung? He obviously could've dodged it!
Alice stopped suddenly and I chanced a look up. The rain was pelting my back furiously and I could see nothing around me, it was so dark. I turned my head around, trying to find a reason for Alice to stop. Lightening chose to strike at that moment, lighting up the sky. Suddenly, I wished I hadn't turned around.
About three other vampires stood in front of us, all smirking and hissing. Alice cursed under her breath before taking off to the right side. Unfortunately, the pale bastards were right behind us. I pushed myself up, using my good hand to lean as far back as I could away from the three monsters, who were hissing and clawing at me. Oh, God! Run faster, Alice! Run faster!
Once again, I'm not sure what happened. I was able to register a loud bang right by my ear and I ended up on the ground and rolling down a hill, my hands (one painfully) going up to protect my face. Finally, my body stopped rolling as my side collided painfully into a tree. I curled up into a fetal position, holding my side and crying out in pain. I tried to block the throbbing of my body out as I stood up, covered in mud and grass stains. I hunched over, grabbing my side and shaking my head to clear it.
I could hear the sound of brick walls crashing furiously together coming from the hill I had just rolled down. Gathering my wits, I began hobbling as fast as I could, without shoes, in the opposite direction. I'm not sure where I was going, I just knew I needed to get away, and fast.
My side hurt…my hand hurt…my entire body hurt, but I didn't stop. I knew if I did, that would be instant death. I reached a clearing in the woods before stopping in horror. Right in front of me was Victoria, grinning like the cat who caught the canary. I heard rustling from my left and I gingerly looked, trying to keep Victoria in my line of sight as well.
"We got the other one," said a guy with jet black hair and red eyes. I noticed he was carrying something on his back before dropping it none too gently at Victoria's feet. The thing moved, shaking its head as if to clear it. When it finally registered where it was, it let out a squeak and immediately scuttled back, closer to me.
"Vi-Victoria," the person said in horror. I recognized that voice.
"Bella?" I asked at the person. Said person turned to me, shock written on her face, before turning back to Victoria and standing up slowly. How'd they get her? Wasn't everyone supposed to be protecting her?
"What's going on?" Bella asked, confusion written on her features as she slowly stumbled back by me.
"Simple," Victoria said. "I'm going to dispose of you," she said as she pointed at Bella, "and you-," she now turned her fierce gaze towards me, "-are just a consolation prize. I figured I'd turn you to teach those dogs to mind their own business."
"How," I started, my voice cracking, "how did you know where I was?"
Victoria leaned her head back before cackling maniacally. "Simple, I tracked you my dear. Your scent is very hard to miss. You will prove to be invaluable as a vampire." Victoria eyed me knowingly, a huge grin on her face.
I looked at Victoria in confusion as Bella stood beside me now. "Wh- what are you t-talking about?" I asked, stuttering out my question. I was trying to sound braver that I felt, but I doubt it was working.
"You mean, you don't know?"
"Know what?" I asked, though I really wanted to say "If I knew, I wouldn't be asking you dumb bloodsucking bitch." Last thing I figured I should do was backtalk a being who could literally rip my head off in one fell swoop.
Victoria took a step forward and Bella and I immediately took one back. Victoria cackled once again. Bella and I shot a look at each other before turning back to look at Victoria. Both of us seemingly had the same thought of 'this bitch is crazy.'
"I love the scent of fear in the air!" Yeah…she was definitely nuts. "You, my dear, are special. I knew it when I caught your scent the first time. It was… familiar."
"Familiar how?" I asked, looking at the psycho red head in confusion.
"You are descended from a tribe, are you not?" I gave a half shrug in acknowledgement. "What you probably didn't know is your tribe assisted vampires. Most of your kind were even mated to vampires. How you got stuck with a mutt is beyond me."
My mouth fell open in shock and I stared at the red-head in horror. I was descended from a tribe of people who helped vampires? Wha – how – wh – huh?
"H-how?" Bella asked this, seeing as I couldn't form any coherent thought at the moment. Victoria's fierce gaze turned on her and Bella flinched in response.
"You're not going to live long enough to tell the tale," Victoria growled at Bella, making us both flinch by her tone. Her gaze turned back to me. "It's now time for you to come back to your roots."
I shook my head in defiance, suddenly overcome with a surge of confidence. "No! I won't become one!" I couldn't lose Jake. Just the thought of my wolf was enough for me to get my wits together.
"You, don't have a choice in the matter," Victoria sneered as she appeared directly in front of my face. I fell back on my behind from the surprise. Her gaze moved from me to Bella. "But first, it's time to make you pay."
I watched in horror as Victoria grabbed Bella. "Stop, please!" I yelled, grabbing the first thing my hand landed on, a rock, and throwing it at the vampire. Victoria didn't even flinch as the rock hit her between the eyes.
Shit! I needed to do something and fast! I looked around on the ground and found another rock, this one with sharp edges. Acting purely on instinct, I raised the rock to my arm and dug it roughly into my skin, drawing blood. Victoria and the other vampire in the clearing hissed. The good thing was Victoria practically threw Bella away from her. The bad news is, she and her counterpart were now focused on me.
Victoria and her counterpart stood before me. "If you wanted to go first, all you had to do was let me know."
I shrank back in fear. Clearly, I didn't think this through.
Victoria's minion roughly yanked my arm, causing me to cry out in pain. I closed my eyes awaiting the agony that I knew would be following.
Instead, the vampire let go of my arm. I heard a fierce growl as well as the sound of walls hitting and felt a gust of wind. I opened my eyes to see my wolf pinning down the Victoria's minion and Edward near Victoria in a crouched position. I couldn't help the tears that made its way to my eyes and the choked sob that escaped me. Jake was here. Thank God.
From the surrounding trees, the wolves and more vampires (eyes all that golden topaz color), emerged. My eyes began watering in relief as I realized we were saved. I looked over at Bella, who was crawling over to me, tears streaming down her face. We hugged each other in relief, crying together.
I watched as Jake literally ripped the head off of the vampire minion and spitting it out, one of the Cullen's ran over quickly, lighting the remains on fire. The group circled Victoria, trapping her. I watched on with tired eyes; I was beginning to feel light-headed.
Victoria tried to take to the trees, Edward cutting her off at the pass. Another Vampire, this one huge, almost like the wolves in their human form, held her while Edward slowly tore the head from her body. The sound that it made was horrible, and I winced, closing my eyes.
"Ashley?!" Bella? I rolled my head lazily to the sound of her voice, my eyebrows furrowing in confusion. I tried to open them, but they were so heavy. My body felt really heavy.
"Jake!" Bella sounded panicked.
Immediately, I felt the familiar warmth of my wolf hovering over my body. He gently tapped my face. I tried to tell him to stop, but all I managed was a grumble.
"Baby, wake up! Please, God, don't do this to me! What's wrong with her?" Nothing's wrong Jake. I feel…fine…almost like…floating.
The last thing I remembered was the panicked cry of my wolf, and then, nothing.
It was a beautiful day. The sun as out and I was standing in a clearing, the sound of rushing water far off in the distance. The sound was peaceful, and I was at ease. Where was I? It didn't look like La Push, or Forks, for that matter.
"Young one," I glanced to the right and was surprised to find a woman who looked like my grandmother standing there in traditional Native American tribal gear. She was very beautiful, her long, thick, black hair in two braids that rested on her shoulders. Her beautiful brown skin seemed to radiate with the sun.
I turned to her, furrowing my eyebrows in confusion. "Where am I?"
"Here and there," was the response. Seriously, you can't just answer the question?
"Who are you?" I asked, hoping to receive a straight answer. The woman didn't respond right away.
"Young one, there is much for you to learn. However, I cannot be the one to tell you."
I frowned. I wish she would just give me a straight answer.
"All will be revealed in due time. You must stay strong, and be strong for your wolf."
"How do you know about him?" I asked crossing my arms defensively over my chest, my body stiff and immediately alert in case I needed to defend my Jake.
The woman smiled at me, almost like a mother would her daughter. "You are much like my daughter. Feisty and headstrong. Both a blessing and a curse."
"…thank you?" Was that a backwards compliment?
The woman laughed lightly. "You must head back. It is not your time. And if you play your cards right, it will not be your time for a very long time."
Head back? Not my time? My time for what? What was going on?
Before I could ask anything else, I was forcefully jolted from the clearing. My body slammed into something hard, making me yelp in surprise, rather than pain.
Beep. Beep. Beep.
Ugh, could someone get the alarm?
Beep. Beep. Beep.
That was annoying. Where was Jake? The alarm was on his side of the bed.
Beep. Beep. Beep.
Wait, since when was I back in bed? Did Jake…? Oh, I remember now! The vampires and the clearing and Bella and…oh shit, Bella!
I opened my eyes, but immediately regretted it as a bright light flooded my vision. "Ugh," was the only sound I could get out.
"Baby? Are you awake? Please wake up." I heard Jake's pleading voice and it broke my heart. I slowly opened my eyes and I was glad to see that Jake blocked the light by leaning over the bed.
I blinked to clear my vision and frowned as I saw worry lines marring my wolf's beautiful face. I tried to lift my right arm and frowned when I couldn't. I raised my head slightly to look down, but couldn't see anything. Jake furrowed his eyebrows in confusion and turned his head to look to see what I was trying to look out. Unfortunately in him moving his head, bright light assaulted my vision again.
"Gah!" was the only world I could make out before turning my head and closing my eyes, my left arm going up to block the unnecessary bright light in the room. I heard a chair scrape against the floor before the excessively bright room became dim. I moved my left hand away from my face and sighed in relief.
I watched as Jake walked back over to the chair and sat down, his hand gently grabbing my right one. I tried to wrap my fingers on his hand, but I couldn't, only succeeding in giving a little twitch. I frowned, licking my lips before attempting to speak.
"Wha-" I started before being interrupted by a coughing fit. Jake grabbed the nearby water and offered it to me. I took it, drinking it gingerly. The cool water felt good against my dry throat. I handed him the cup back, and he placed it on the table.
I looked around, noticing I was in a hospital room. Was I hurt that bad? I grabbed the little remote that controls the bed and pushed the "up" button. I stopped a little less than midway as I felt a pang in my side and I hissed in response.
Jake was immediately at my side, eyeing me in worry. "Are you okay? What's wrong?"
"I'm fine," I said smiling, though I could feel it came out strained. "Just moved a little too much, is all."
Jake sighed, sitting down once again and taking my right hand. "How're you feeling?" He asked, rubbing his face tiredly. I eyed him closely. My poor wolf looked stressed and exhausted.
"I'm fine," I said, ignoring the pain in my body. "How are you," I said, eyeing him closely. "When's the last time you slept?"
Jake shrugged. "Probably two days ago. You've been in here for the last thirty-two hours. I'm better now that you're up and okay."
"What happened?" The last thing I really remember is Victoria's head being ripped off.
"After we killed Victoria, you fainted." Jake paused, swallowing thickly and taking a deep breath. "Fuck baby, you scared the ever-loving shit outta me. I didn't know what to do," Jake's voice cracked then and I felt my heart break as his eyes filled with tears. "There was so much blood. For a second, I thought…" Jake trailed off, a tear rolling down his cheek before quickly wiping it away. "…I thought I was too late."
My eyes filled with tears as I saw how much pain my wolf was in. I scooted over to the right, patting the bed beside me. Jake walked around and climbed in. I wanted to badly to turn and hold him, but my right arm was bandaged and hooked to the IV. Instead, we lay next to each other and I moved to cuddle him and Jake snaked his arm loosely around my waist.
"Promise me something," Jake said, burrowing his head in my hair. I nodded slightly. "Promise me you'll never do something like that again."
I hesitated, looking at my wolf who was staring pleadingly at me. "I promise." Seeing as though the threat was over, I didn't see a need to go cutting myself anymore to distract vampires.
"Good," he said. "Jeez, I thought letting you listen to the legends would be interesting and entertaining. I never expected you to actually attempt something like that. I'm gonna have to tell Billy to start giving a disclaimer."
I laughed before leaning up and kissing him on his jaw. That apparently wasn't enough since Jake hungrily attacked my mouth, making me moan in response.
"I'm pretty sure that's not allowed in the hospital."
Jake and I broke apart and I turned to see Bella standing in the doorway, smiling softly. I smiled at her in return as she walked in the room and sat in the chair Jake had previously occupied.
"How're you feeling?"
"I'm good," I said honestly. "I'll be even better when I can leave,' I joked. Jake chuckled and Bella smiled.
"I hope it'll be soon," Bella said before glancing at Jake. "Could you give us a minute?"
I felt Jake sigh before standing up. "I'm going to call Billy to check up on him. I'll be back soon." He walked out, leaving Bella and I in silence.
I glanced at the young woman who now eyed me with tears in her eyes. I furrowed my eyebrows in confusion. Why was she tearing up? Did I look that pitiful?
"Thank you, Ashley," she said, putting her hand on my right one and squeezing gently. "If it weren't for you…" she trailed off quietly as a tears fell from her eyes and I felt my own tear up. Seriously, I was going to need everyone to stop crying around me. I'm too sensitive for this shit.
I sniffed, bringing my left hand up to wipe away a tear. "I'm just glad I was there, even if I got banged up in the process," I joked, pointing to my hand. Bella laughed.
"Edward told me what happened to you hand. He would've came to apologize himself if Jake wasn't hovering around you. He gets a bit...upset…when Edward is around."
I nodded in understanding. I figured that would be the case, them being natural enemies and all. "I understand. I'm sure Edward would be the same if the roles were reversed."
Bella nodded, sniffing, and we sat in a comfortable silence. It was nice of her to come visit. We weren't friends, but I didn't hate her. I just didn't agree with all of her decisions that involved Jake.
"Did you tell Jake about what Victoria said?"
I shook my head. "I really just woke up before you came in. I'm not even sure how to broach the subject though." How would I tell Jake about what Victoria said? How would he react knowing his girlfriend was descended from a tribe of vampire helpers? Wouldn't that be a contradictory to what he and his tribe were all about? Ugh, I was starting to get a headache.
"I might've mentioned it…to Edward," Bella said nervously.
I frowned at Bella. Really? I guess I'd have to tell Jake sooner rather than later. Last thing I needed was for him to find out from someone else.
"It's ok," I sighed. "I just hope he isn't mad when he finds out."
Bella shook her head. "I highly doubt he would be mad at you. Jake's crazy about you."
"That won't stop him from being upset, though. I guess I should tell him. He did mention a library on the reservation before, but it's not open to outsiders. I guess I now would be a good time to get Jake to explore it for me, huh?"
"That…or I could ask Carlisle. He should have access to that information, or know how to get it," Bella offered. I shook my head.
"Nah, I think it'll be better if I did the research on my end, you know? Besides, could you imagine how mad Jake would be if cold ones helped me and not him?"
Bella laughed lightly. "Yeah, you're right. Just know we'll help you if you need it."
"I appreciate the offer."
Bella nodded before standing up. "Well, I'll let you go. I'm sure Jake is anxious to get back in here."
"Thanks for visiting," I said, smiling at the girl. She smiled in return before leaving. Not even a minute later, Jake was walking back in the room.
"All good?" he asked, walking back in the room and sitting on a chair. I nodded, raising an eyebrow in question. "I got the doctor. They wanted to know when you were awake. Wouldn't want me to be kicked out for indecency, would you?" Jake said teasingly and winking at me. "The pack's out there too. They want to see you, if you're up for it, that is."
I grinned, nodding. "I don't mind." It'll be nice to having them around, they were always fun.
"How's Billy? He okay?"
Jake nodded. "He's a little pissed about the door, but not too much. He got a check in the mail to replace it from the leeches."
"They're not gonna get in trouble for coming on the reservation?" I asked. I still didn't like vampires, but at least these ones tried to help me.
Jake sighed. "As much as I don't like it, no, they won't be in trouble. Besides, they tried to save you, so we can forgive a little trespassing. They had just better not do it again."
The doctor came in then, checking to make sure all was fine with me. I half listened to what he was saying, my mind lost in thought. I would have to talk to Jake about everything and I wasn't sure how he was going to take it. Why couldn't I be descended from a tribe of vampire hunters instead?
And what was with that dream? Who was that woman? How did she know me? More importantly, how did she know Jake was a wolf?
Even with the demise of Victoria, I feel as if the danger was far from over.
Author's note 2: Hope you all enjoyed! I'm actually proud of myself for that little bit of action, seeing as I have no experience writing action…or writing in general. Anyway, next chapter is in Jake's POV, and we get to delve into Ashley's heritage as well as see what took place during the time Ashley and Bella were being attacked. Plus, there's still the issue of the Volturi.
Have a wonderful week!