Author's Note: Another chapter done! This is kind of a filler chapter. After all, everyone needs a break from all the serious bullshit! In addition, to make up for how short the last chapter was, this one is a bit longer!

Also, towards the end of this chapter things get a little…uh…steamy, nothing too graphic though, at least, I don't think so. Anyway, enjoy!

Chapter 12

My mom stayed with me for a month, which was fun. I was able to spend a full two weeks with her, as my job refused to clear me to come back, stating I still wasn't in the best condition from the "accident." Since I had company, I didn't complain too much. Jake even stopped by almost every day to spend time and get to know my mother better. The first day he stopped by to drop of my bags, making me blush as my mom eyed us mischievously. However, on one particular day he left us The Rabbit, stating he had to go into town anyway and would be a while. I had eyed Jake curiously, until we unlocked the car and found there were directions to Port Angeles' Mall conveniently laying in the passenger's seat. Of course, both mom and I got excited and left before he had a chance to change his mind. Finally, I was able to get my new shoes! I also got new suits, jeans, shirts, make-up, two new purses, some perfume and jewelry. However, while I was shopping, I realized Jake most likely needed some new clothes. Thinking back on it, Jake seemed to recycle the same clothes over and over. Enlisting the help of my mom, we picked Jake out a few pairs of jeans, khakis, shorts, button-downs and over the head t-shirts, both of us hoping he would not only love them, but could fit them as well. If not, he would just have to bring me back.

When we arrived back to my apartment, it was evening. Jake was waiting on the steps, take-out bags sitting next to him. His eyes widened comically as he eyed all of the bags as he walked towards us, reaching out to grab several bags. Mom and I were both grateful for the help as well as the food. Needless to say, he definitely won brownie points with mom. Once inside, Jake listened as mom and I rambled on about the various sales and deals we were able to get. Once we finished eating, we showed him everything we got for him. I watched carefully as his expression changed from surprise, to awe, to gratefulness. Mom made him go in the back and try everything on to make sure everything fit him well and of course, Jake being Jake, decided to put on a mini fashion show. Each time he emerged, mom clapped and I would wolf-whistle. My wolf, eating up the attention, decided to vogue at one point, making mom and I fall over in laughter.

Jake thanked us for the clothes, giving my mom a big hug before leaving. I walked him out, and before I could say anything, my wolf attacked my mouth with a fierce passion I had never experienced before, his firm body pressing mine tightly against the doorframe. I swear, if my mom had not been there, I would've been dragging Jake back in the house.

When we broke apart, he eyed me with raw emotion. The look alone causing my heart rate to increase. We said our goodnight, my wolf leaving with his bags. I was so tempted to call him back. Every fiber of my being practically begged me to call him back. If I was feeling like this, I couldn't imagine how Jake felt.

A few weeks later, Jake and I took my mom back to the airport after she stopped through La Push to say her goodbyes to Billy and Sue, who happened to be over the Black household once again. I really didn't want her to go, but she still had responsibilities back in Jersey. She told me she would be able to retire in four years, since she had the years in, and she was considering relocating to Forks when she does. I really hope so.

When they called for my mom's flight to board, I clung to her, suddenly feeling very much like a child. She held me tightly, promising she would visit more, and me promising to do the same. With promises to call me as soon as she made it home, my mom let go and boarded her flight. I watched sadly and was vaguely aware of Jake wrapping his arm around me. We waited until the flight took off before leaving. I was grateful Jake drove us, as I cried the entire ride back to Forks. Jake took me home and he stayed with me as I cried the rest of the day. Mom had called roughly seven hours later, saying she had made it in safely. We talked for a little while before hanging up. I walked off towards my room and flopped down on the bed. Jake stood awkwardly in my doorway, asking me if I wanted him to go. I shook my head, and he ended up staying with me the entire night. I had missed falling asleep in his arms, and I was grateful that they brought me comfort.

It's been four months since I got out of the hospital, and about three months since I've been back at work. Jake had fixed my car, making it look brand new. I smiled as I thought of my shirtless wolf and all the work he's been putting in to take care of me. I still couldn't believe how blessed I was to find someone such as Jake. I also couldn't believe it was late fall and my wolf could still walk around without a shirt…not that I was complaining or anything.

My first day back at work, I was greeted by my staff yelling a "Welcome back!" as soon as I walked through the doors. Apparently, I was missed as my office was littered in "Get Well Soon" cards and balloons, along with a long "Welcome Back" banner and stuffed animals. Also, there were cartons of coffee, some bagels, and pastries on my credenza. Overwhelmed and holding back tears at the feeling of appreciation my staff showed me, I walked to each person, thanking them sincerely and each person expressed how great it was to have me back and how much I was missed. It felt so good knowing I was appreciated, especially at work.

Two months later, everything went back to normal. My staff getting used to having me around once again, and me getting used to being at work again. I had just left a meeting and was on my way back to the office, tired and stressed out. It was one of those meetings where everyone talks about every issue known to man, yet offers no solution. Unfortunately, a lot of the problems were in my area, so it looks like I may be working this weekend to try and come up with solutions to the various issues raised. Since I had been back, I've been working like crazy to catch up on all the work I missed, even opting to come in some weekends, which of course, didn't sit well with my wolf. I assured him that as soon as I was caught up, I would stop working late so much and cut out weekends all together, unless there was an emergency that required my attention.

I walked back into my office, unlocking the door. My staff all left since it was the end of the day. I had a lot of work to do, but I really wasn't up for working late tonight. I really just wanted to go home and relax in a nice, hot bubble bath. But if I didn't stay late tonight, I would have to work the weekend. Frowning, I took out my notes from the meeting to see if there was anything requiring immediate attention.

Ring!

I looked up, glaring at my office phone. It was after hours, who would be calling?

Ring!

Should I answer? What if it's an emergency? I sighed forlornly towards the ceiling before making my decision.

"Fork's General Hospital Pediatric Unit, Ashley speaking," I said, my tone of voice monotonous.

"How'd I know you'd still be at work?"

I couldn't stop the smile that made its way to my lips as I heard the amused voice of my Jake over the receiver.

"I don't know, maybe because I've been practically living here for the past couple of weeks?" I replied, putting my meeting notes to the side.

"Tell me about it. I swear if I didn't know you were such a hard worker, I would think you were seeing someone else."

I rolled my eyes. "Yes, Jake. I'm seeing someone else. He's annoying, abusive, and takes advantage of my hard work. The only reason we're still together is because he gives me money every two weeks," I finished sarcastically. "The only reason I haven't gone insane is because there's this really strong, sweet, and caring guy who, for some reason, puts up with me and this destructive relationship."

Jake chuckled. "Sounds like you need saving. Grab your stuff, I'm outside."

I blinked in surprise. "Right now?"

"No, Ash, yesterday. Yes, right now!"

I bit my lip, glancing at my notes. From what I went over, nothing required immediate attention. "Um, can you give me ten minutes?"

"Ashley, I will come up there and throw you over my shoulder kicking and screaming if you're not out here in two minutes."

I frowned. "Jake! I have to-"

"One minute and fifty seconds now."

"Alright, alright! I'm shutting down my computer and packing up my work fo-"

"No, no work. You're mine for the weekend."

I paused, feeling excited at the thought of Jake and I spending the weekend together. I glanced at my notes once more before shrugging and shutting down my computer.

"Ok, Jake, I'm on my way downstairs now."

"I knew you'd see it my way."

"Sure, sure," I said, grabbing my work bag and winter coat and walking out, locking my office in the process. "I'll be down in a minute. I'm getting on the elevator now."

"Good," Jake said, hanging up.

I smiled, putting on my coat as I stepped on the elevator, which seemed to take forever getting to the ground floor. Once the elevator finally did reach the ground floor, I stepped off and was immediately grabbed by familiar strong arms. My own arms immediately circling his waist and my heart clenched in my chest as my entire body recognized its missing counterpart immediately.

"I missed you," Jake whispered into my hair. I lifted my head to look in his beautiful dark brown eyes. His eyes reflected the emotion I felt.

"I missed you, too."

Finally, we let go of each other and I was able to take in his entire form. My wolf wore a dark pair of jeans, black boots and a worn leather jacket. I made a mental note to take Jake shopping with me the next time I went.

"So, what are your plans for me this weekend?" I said as Jake took my hand, leading me out of the hospital.

I saw a quick flash of nervousness before being replaced by that look of complete admiration and awe, much like when we first met.

"I, uh, have a surprise for you," Jake said, almost shyly.

I eyed the young man in surprise before smiling. "Really?" I said, completely flattered even though I had no idea what his surprise was. "What is it?"

Jake rolled his eyes with a smile on his face, walking me to my car. "If I told you, it wouldn't be a surprise."

"I can act surprised," I said as we stopped in front of my car as I noticed his bike was right next to mine. "Watch," I said, turning towards his bike and exclaiming "Oh my God, Jake! You have a motorcycle?! That's so awesome!" I said, trying to act surprised and enthusiastic, by hands flying up on either side of my face to emphasize the surprise. I turned back to my wolf who was currently laughing at me.

"You're such a dork," he said, still laughing at me.

"Ah, but did you see how I acted surprised? I knew you had a bike, yet I acted surprised that you had one."

Jake grinned, shaking his head before ushering me into my car. "Get in the car, honey, before you end up hurting yourself from trying so hard. I'm gonna trail you to your apartment."

I pouted. "But the surprise…"

Jake turned away from me, shaking his head in slight humor. "That look is gonna be my downfall one of these days," I heard him whisper to himself before glancing back at me. "Why tell you when I can show you?"

I made a show of thinking about it, my head tilting left and right. "I suppose that'll work."

Jake grinned. "Good," he replied before leaning down and kissing my forehead. "Let's get goin'," he said, shutting my door. I watched him as he went over to his bike and straddled it. Smiling, I turned on the car and backed out of my spot before turning onto the main road.

Roughly fifteen minutes later, we arrived at my apartment. Jake was already making his way towards me as I was getting out of my car. I turned towards him expectantly.

"So, I was thinking you pack a weekend bag?"

I glanced at Jake, surprise etched on my face. We had been spending more time at my apartment as it afforded us some privacy. Shrugging and deciding to not ask any questions, I walked towards my apartment with Jake besides me. Walking in the door, I immediately went to my room not even bothering to remove my coat. I brought out a duffle bag and began picking out outfits to wear for the weekend.

"Are we going anywhere special? Or should I just pack lounge wear, or casual?"

"Casual should be good," Jake said, leaning against the doorframe of my room. I nodded, packing a couple pair of jeans, several tops, and three pairs of boots along with some sleepwear and my unmentionables, though I made Jake turn around as I packed those. I also grabbed my makeup and perfume, putting in the bag.

"I said the weekend, Ash, not the week."

"Shut up," I said jokingly as I mock glared at my wolf who was eyeing me in amusement. "I need options!"

Jake shook his head, grinning at me. I finished packing, grateful that everything was able to fit in my duffle bag. I glanced at my laptop, trying to figure out if I should bring it or not. Making up my mind, I decided to pack it in a backpack, promising Jake I wouldn't check on work. He reluctantly agreed, saying he'd be watching me closely to make sure I kept my word. Once I was finished packing, I walked towards my wolf and he reached out for my duffle bag, taking it and putting the strap over his head so it hung diagonally. I put my backpack on and we walked out together, me locking my door in the process. I began walking towards my car, but Jake grabbed my hand and steered me towards his bike. I glanced at him in question and he smirked, offering, "You're not escaping from me that easily."

Jake got on his bike, reaching over to help me on. Once I was settled, Jake took off with a burst of speed, chuckling as I wrapped my arms around him tighter. I glared at his back, but made no move to loosen my hold. Truth be told, I was feeling excited… in more ways than one. Not only was Jake strong and handsome, he was also sweet and caring and protective. I don't know what I did to be destined to such an amazing person as Jake, but I was grateful.

I snuggled up closer to Jake's back to keep the cold wind from blasting against my face. The closer I pressed against him, the warmer I became. I grinned as the thought crossed my mind that he was so hot, both literally and figuratively. Yeah, I guess I really am a dork.

Soon, I was able to make out familiar surroundings. We were really close Jake and Billy's place. I smiled as I thought of the older man who Jake resembled so. Maybe I could cook him a big meal this weekend. I frowned as Jake suddenly veered off, taking a different road I wasn't familiar with. This must be part of the surprise.

A few minutes later, Jake was pulling into a garage, attached to a medium brown house. Was this were one of the pack lived? Maybe Sam and Emily moved? When Jake came to a complete stop, I sat back, eyeing the home curiously. Jake got off the bike and turned to me, his eyes full of excitement. He reached out a hand, helping me off the bike and pulled me close to him.

"Where are we?" I asked, looking around and trying to remember if I've been here before. I kept coming up blank.

Jake turned to me, a look of pride on his handsome features mixed with same exact look he had the night he imprinted on me. "Remember I told you about the home I was fixing up?"

My eyes widened in surprise as I took everything in. Jake gingerly reached for my hand as he walked me up the stairs and into the house. I took off my backpack, setting it down by the door, followed by my coat, with the assistance of Jake who hung it on a coat rack near the door and he did the same with his leather jacket. We walked in the living room and I was suddenly assaulted with a vision of Jake and I here, cuddling in front of the nice-sized brick fireplace. Another vision came to me as I glanced in front of me through the hallway. I saw Jake and I hanging pictures of friends and family. Blinking, that vision was replaced with one of Jake on all fours, giving a piggy-back ride to little child with black hair goading Jake to go faster. My mouth dropped open slightly as I saw myself, my hair down past my shoulders and my belly protruding, seemingly with a child.

"How do you like it?"

I shook my head, coming out of whatever trance I was in. Breathlessly, I glanced around at the polished hardwood floors, the worn electric blue couch and small television that encompassed the front room. This was going to become my home with Jake, I could feel it. A huge smile graced my features at the thought. I've never seen anything more beautiful.

"It's perfect," I said, breathlessly glancing at Jake. Jake cocked an eyebrow in disbelief.

"Perfect, Ash?"

I nodded. "You did this all yourself?"

"Yeah," Jake said bashfully. "I finished patching everything about two weeks ago. I was able to find the furniture at a good will place. I know it's not… designer, or fancy, or anything, but-"

"Jake, that doesn't matter to me," I said, seriously. "It's perfect because of the time and effort you put into everything. I honestly love it."

Jake looked at me searchingly, seemingly looking for any sign of deceit. My heart did a little dance in my chest as Jake smiled, a genuinely handsome smile. One that made his eyes light up and all of his teeth visible.

"Good, I'm glad. Come on, let me give you a mini tour," he said, leading me down the hallway. "If you look over to your left, we have the bathroom-" I glanced and saw a white porcelain toilet, sink, and bathtub/shower with the fiberglass for privacy. We continued down the hallway, stopping briefly as Jake pointed out the next stop, "-and over here is the soon to be laundry room. As you can see, the only thing missing that would make it complete is a washer and dryer, but I'm working on it," he said winking. Leading me on, we came to stop in an open area with a stove, sink and refrigerator. This room was pretty dull as it still had some work to be done to it. "This is the kitchen, obviously. It's another work in progress," he said, "and here is the door to the backyard. I can show you that tomorrow so you get the full effect in the light," he said before walking me to the right down another hallway. I was honestly surprised just how big the home was on the inside. "Over to the left, we have a bedroom…at least I think that's what it's gonna turn into. It's not stocked yet, but I figured I can take my time on it. Over here to the right is another room that can become a bedroom…or home office…or whatever."

I glanced at Jake, surprise written on my features. Would the home office be for me? Like, when we decided to take that next step? Jake looked at me shyly. "It's no pressure…just, ya know…one day."

I smiled at Jake, looking at the room. "I can see that," I said, walking into the room. "Maybe have a desk here, facing the door?" I said, pointing to a spot near a wall. "And maybe a bookshelf or two here? Oh, and maybe we can paint it a different color? Maybe off white or tan? Actually, this room would be pretty with a soft blue if we color coordinate it right… And we can have positive quotes all over, along with pictures of us and family and friends. What do you think?"

I glanced at Jake, who was watching me in slight amusement mixed with…some other emotion I couldn't identify. "Whatever you want," he said, sincerely.

I blushed at his tone as I walked back over to him, this time bypassing his outstretched hand and wrapping my arm around his waist. Smiling, Jake wrapped his strong arm over my shoulder, leading me down the hallway. We stopped in front of another room, and my mouth dropped at how big the room was.

"This is the master bedroom. It's another work in progress," Jake said, smiling as he placed my bag on the floor. I glanced around at huge room, seeing so much potential for decorations and things to make it feel "home-y." There were two closets, and upon inspecting them, they were both walk-ins. The room was white, but I was thinking maybe we could paint this one as well. The only things in this room was a dresser and a queen sized bed. I glanced at Jake in question.

"The council was nice enough to donate this to me when they found out I was finally moving in. I just…kinda need some bedding. Billy gave me a couple of sheets to put on the mattress, along with a comforter, just in case." Leading me deeper into the room, he opened another room that revealed a master bathroom. This bathroom was completely different from the other one. This bathroom was bigger, having two sinks, a shower by itself and a huge bathtub with Jacuzzi jets. To say I was impressed would be a vast understatement.

"I thought of you when I saw this bathroom. I guess the previous owners had this part of the house renovated before moving out as this is the most modern area of the home. Luckily, I didn't have to do anything here."

I turned to my wolf, impressed. "Jake, this is amazing! I'm so proud of you for doing all of this! I knew you were good with cars, but renovating houses as well? That's quite a talent!"

Jake winked at me, leading me out of the room. His gaze snapped to the side, as if hearing something. Smiling, he told me to wait in the living room as he walked outside. Shrugging, I obliged, going to sit on the worn, yet surprisingly comfortable electric blue couch. A few seconds later, Jake entered the room, holding three picnic baskets and a blanket.

"Where'd those come from?"

Jake grinned, before winking. "Emily agreed to help me romance you."

"Jake, you don't hav-"

"I know I don't have to, but I want to. Besides, you and I haven't had an official date yet and I thought this would…kinda be it," Jake said hesitating and looking at me in nervousness before glancing away. "I know it's nothing fancy, but…"

I stood up, walking over to my wolf and hugging his mid-section. "Jake, I don't need fancy. Besides, I'm flattered by all the effort you put in just to make you happy."

Jake gave me a crooked smile, running a hand through his black hair. I grabbed the blanket and spread it out on the floor before removing my shoes and sitting, my legs crossed at the ankles. I was still in my black pants suit from work, and I was tempted to excuse myself in order to change into something more comfortable. I decided against it as Jake sat down as well, cross-legged with the baskets in front of us. I was surprised to find actual home-cooked food in in the baskets; mashed potatoes and gravy, broccoli, rice, vegetables, and a roast…and for dessert, a red velvet cheesecake! My favorite!

I smiled at Jake, feeling overwhelmed by all the effort he was putting in to make me happy. Fighting back tears of happiness, I began placing the plates with the food out on the blanket as Jake grabbed two plates and silverware for the both of us. Soon, we were eating and talking, enjoying each other's company.

"Favorite football team?" Jake asked, after finding out I liked football.

"I like the Giants, being from Jersey and all, but I also like the Seahawks. You?" I asked, taking a bite out of my cheesecake. I would be sure to thank Emily for all of this later.

"Seahawks," Jake said, grinning and cutting another slice of cheesecake for himself. I may have to do the same. "Billy will be happy to know that. What's something you regret?"

I thought for a moment. I was the type of person who didn't have many regrets, as I try to look at the positive outcome of everything. "Hmm, that's a hard one, but if I had to choose something…I guess…wasting time trying to win my father's approval. You?"

Jake furrowed his eyebrows, frowning slightly. "I guess wasting time trying to court Bella. What happened between you and your father?"

I averted my gaze, opting instead to grab another piece of cheesecake. "I thought it was my turn to ask a question?"

"It was and you just did," Jake said, grinning at me. I rolled my eyes…cheeky bastard.

"I… well," I started before sighing. I hated taking about the man who helped give me life. "We never really got along. I always managed to do the opposite of what he wanted; he wanted me to play sports, I did ballet; he wanted me to major in biology, I majored in business; he never wanted me to move out of state, I move across the friggin' country. I guess a part of me naturally rebelled because I was bitter towards him," I said, shrugging nonchalantly. Truth was it hurt every time I thought about it, but I've learned to…suppress it, which isn't good as my mom has said countless times, but whatever. It gets me through tough times.

"Anyway, the last time I saw him, I was sixteen years old. He took me over to New York City to hang out with him and his girlfriend. Long story short, his girlfriend began talking negatively about my mother. Of course, I spoke up, politely asking her to stop. She continued and we got into an argument. My father, taking his girl's side, kicked me out of the car and left me in the city. It was dark out, and I had to take the subway, an NJ Transit train, and three buses to get home. I ended up getting in at roughly one in the morning, and of course my mom was worried sick. I told her what happened and she called my father and ripped him a new asshole. It was the first time I had ever heard her curse. When we got up that morning, she took me to get a cellphone," I finished, grinning at the memory of my mother cursing him out. Jake, however, didn't seem amused. In fact, he seemed downright disgusted.

"He left you? What a dick!"

"Jake!" I said in mock reprimand. Jake just waved me off.

"If I ever meet him, I'll continue ripping the asshole your mother started," Jake said, glaring dangerously at the wall.

"It's fine, Jake," I said, making him look at me in disbelief. "I mean, yeah it hurts, but what are you gonna do? Besides, he was the type who wanted to be a father when it was convenient to him. It sucks, but I've learned to accept it."

Jake frowned, eyeing me seriously. "You shouldn't have to accept that."

I shrugged. "It is what it is. I haven't talked to him since. He's called me, but I refuse to answer. I guess I'm still mad even after five years."

Jake shook his head sadly, a fierce protectiveness in his beautiful eyes. "I would never do that to my children."

I glanced at Jake, smiling. "I know you wouldn't, Jake. You're actually a decent guy. Besides, I think you would make an excellent father," I said, smiling as I remembered my vision from earlier.

Jake eyed me curiously. "Yeah, you think so?"

"I know so," I said confidently. Jake eyed me, that unreadable expression on his face once again. Feeling myself blush at the intense look, I decided grab the leftover cheesecake and put it in the refrigerator before damning the consequences and finishing the entire thing myself. Once that was put up, I walked into the living room to see Jake putting the baskets over to side of the room. I took off my suit jacket, resting it on the couch and stretched before sitting back on the blanket. Jake joined me, this time sitting closer to me. I snuggled into him and Jake leaned back, wrapping an arm around my waist and taking me with him. I sighed in contentment, running my hand up and down Jake's clothed torso.

I glanced up and noticed Jake's eyes closed and I couldn't help but think of how at peace he looked. He wasn't asleep, I could tell, he was just relaxing. I smiled, happy that my wolf was finally able to take a break from hunting vampires and keeping me safe. I felt overwhelmed with emotion as I remembered just how diligently and fiercely my wolf protected me. I realized Jacob Black would always be here to protect me and care for me, no matter what. Not only was he my protector, but he was my confidant, my best friend…my world. Just the thought of losing Jake made my heart clench painfully in my chest. Every fiber of my being craved Jake, almost as if it knew Jake was made for me, and I for him.

Not only that, but I loved Jake's smile, his sunny personality, his sarcastic remarks, his pet names for me.

I loved how affectionate he was and how, no matter what, he always managed to think of me.

I loved how safe I felt just being in his arms.

I loved how romantic he was and how he always managed to make me feel like the most beautiful person in the world.

I loved how comfortable he was around me, opening his life to me to become a part of. Other than being hunted by vampires, I wouldn't take anything back.

The more I thought of my wolf and what he meant to me, the more I came to the realization that this was not just infatuation or a simple crush anymore.

I was in love with Jacob Black.

Holy Shit! I was in love with Jacob Black!

Feeling my eyes prickle with happy tears and my insides turn to complete mush, I moved from my resting spot on his chest to hover over my wolf, my right hand caressing his handsome features. Jake's eyes opened as he cocked an eyebrow, looking at me curiously. Without speaking, I tried to convey what I was feeling. Jake stared into my eyes, trying to read my expression. Suddenly, his eyes went wide in realization his breath hitching in his chest. He sat up on his forearms, never breaking eye contact with me.

"Say it," he whispered softly, reaching a hand up to caress my face.

I closed my eyes, leaning into his caress, his thumb extending to caress my lips. Grabbing his hand and kissing his palm, I spoke. "I'm in love you, Jacob Black."

In the blink of an eye, I was laying on my back with Jacob hovering over me. His face held awe, wonder, lust, admiration… and complete and utter devotion.

"I'm in love you, Ashley Williams," he said, tenderly before leaning down and capturing my lips in a passionate kiss. His tongue licked the outside of my lips and I opened my mouth to allow him entrance. I moaned as Jake's tongue caressed mine in the most sensual way. My hand's buried themselves in his thick black hair as he kissed me with a fierce passion. All too soon, the annoying reminder that I needed to breathe came and I broke the kiss with a gasp. Jake's lips made their way to the side of my face, kissing a trail along my jaw before making their way to my neck, sucking and nipping the entire way before focusing on a spot just below my jawline and sucking gently.

My hands went to fist in his black shirt, fighting to pull it off of him. Finally taking pity on me (and taking a break from that spot on my neck), Jake lifted up on his knees, taking his shirt off in one smooth motion before chucking it somewhere behind him. He leaned over me fully, one of his legs between mine and his weight being supported by his hands. I bit my lip to hold back a moan that threatened to escape as my hands ran over his broad chest and down his abs, stopping when I felt the fabric of his jeans before slowly traveling back up to wrap around his neck, bringing him closer.

Slowly and carefully, my wolf lowered himself down on top of me, his weight distributed in a way that didn't crush me. Jake eyed me closely as his hand began moving over my clothed stomach. Slowly, almost painfully so, he untucked my shirt from my pants and placed his hand on my bare abdomen. Slowly, his hand traced upward, before stopping to gently play with my ring, making me giggle. Jake's eyes filled with amusement before leaving my belly ring and continued his trail upwards. My breathing increased in anticipation and I closed my eyes. Jake's hand suddenly stopped just below my breast. I growled in frustration and opened my eyes, Jake grinning mischievously at me. Instead of going up, like I wanted, his hand began traveling lower…and lower…and lower still.

I held my breath as Jake's hand hovered on the button of my pants before unbuttoning them. My breath was coming in short gasps, to the point I was almost hyperventilating. To say I was excited would be a vast understatement.

Jake's lips found that spot on my neck once again and this time I couldn't hold back my groan in appreciation. One of my hands once again found its way into my wolf's thick hair as the other ran up and down his back gently. I was so preoccupied with Jake nipping and sucking my neck, I didn't even realize his other hand was trailing up until I felt hot heat gently cup me.

Gasping out, my back arched and one of my legs locked around his waist, instantly feeling how aroused he was. Both hands now were on his back, gently raking my blunt fingernails against him.

All too soon, Jake stopped his ministrations on my neck, but kept his hand against me, gently squeezing my sensitive flesh as he gazed seriously into my eyes. His mouth hovered over mine, coming dangerously close to my own.

"Ashley," I closed my eyes and shuddered as Jake said my name lowly, his voice full of lust. "If we continue like this, I don't think I'll be able to stop myself."

I paused slightly as what he said registered in my lust filled mind. Licking my lips (and almost licking Jake in the process), I responded. "Do you have protection?"

Jake nodded. "It's in the bedroom."

Smiling mischievously, I let my hands roam down his chest and over his abs once again. This time, instead of stopping at his jeans, my hands unbuttoned the clasp and gently unzipped him. I kissed him firmly, gently nipping his lower lip. My handsome wolf broke the kiss, eyeing me in a mixture of lust and hopefulness.

"Bedroom?"

"Bedroom."

Without needing any further affirmation from me, Jake lifted me bridal style, making his way to the bedroom.

AN: (winks) Hope y'all enjoyed! Catch ya on the flip-side!