Author's Note: I'm so glad you guys enjoyed the last chapter, especially since it was my first time writing something like that! Thanks to everyone who liked and favorited this story! Ya'll are awesome!

A very special thanks to those who take the time to review and give me feedback! Y'all rock my socks and are awesome!

This chapter is a filler chapter. Action should be back in the next chapter; at least, I think so. I've been deviating from my outline just a bit.

Chapter 16

It was Friday.

It was Friday and I was at work.

It was Friday, I was at work and supposed to be working, but I just didn't feel like it.

Why?

Because of Jacob Black, that's why.

My mind kept replaying our previous weekend together. This weekend, I would also be staying with him again and I'm pretty sure I wouldn't be getting rest once again this weekend, though I didn't care. Jake was completely worth sacrificing sleep for. I smiled at the thought and sighed in pure happiness. It was midafternoon and I would be leaving soon for La Push. I had packed my bag this morning, this time bringing a few outfits for work. I was actually thinking about spending a couple of days during the week there as well. I'm sure he wouldn't mind.

I glanced back at my computer which had the results page from my google search about the BlackFoot Tribe. I was supposed to be working in my budget for next year, but just couldn't bring myself to. Luckily I had some time before I needed to turn it in. Anyway, I had been searching for information for the past week. Jake, Sam and Billy couldn't find anything substantive on their end, but they were actively looking. I clicked on the first result, and it took me to a page with generalized information. I sighed and was about to go back to the previous page, but found a small blurb at the bottom of the page:

We have a wealth of knowledge on the Blackfoot people that cannot simply be contained on this website. If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to contact us at: allaboutblackfoot

I glanced at the email address listed and shrugged. Seemed legit. Besides, what did I have to lose? Making up my mind I sent an email expressing interest in the people, more specifically, their legends and what happened to them. I used my hospital email and signature for correspondence, hoping that if they see I'm from a professional organization, they will respond quicker.

"Ashley?"

I glanced up to see my middle-aged African American Secretary, Shannon Spencer, glancing at me hesitantly. Shannon had long, beautiful jet-black hair to her mid-back and was wearing a grey pants suit. I smiled at the woman, who had taken a while to become comfortable enough to call me by my first name, and invited her in.

"Yes, Shannon?" I asked as she came and stood in front of my desk.

Shannon smiled slyly at me and I raised an eyebrow. "You have a delivery," she said in a singsong voice.

"Really? I asked as I stood up, but Shannon motioned for me to remain seated.

"I'll have the delivery guy bring it to you," she said, smirking before turning on her heel and walking off, her heels clicking the entire way. I watched the door where she left as I heard her ask to be followed. Shannon walked in followed the deliveryman who was carrying a huge bouquet of red roses in a vase. My eyes widened in surprise as I eyed the beautiful flowers. I motioned for the deliveryman to put them on my desk and signed for them. The man soon left, leaving just my Secretary and me.

"Wow, this guy of yours is something else," she said, eyeing the flowers.

I nodded as I picked them up and smelled them, a huge smile instantly coming to my face again. Shannon smiled knowingly and politely excused herself so she could let me have my moment, closing the door on her way out. I placed the flowers down again, this time on the edge of my mahogany desk and bit my lip in excitement as I found a card.

Hey there Gorgeous,
I was out with Quil and Embry when I saw these and I figured you could use a little pick-me-up since you've probably had meeting after meeting to go to (Aww, Jake! You're so sweet!), and I wanted to show Quil how to properly romance a woman. So, I guess I should be cheesy and write something romantic, huh? Well, here goes:

Roses are Red
Violets are Blue
Won't you spend the night again
So I can hump you?

Love,
Your Jake

My mouth fell open in shock at Jake's "romantic poem" before I read it over again and burst out in gut-busting laughter. My arms went around my stomach as I bent over in laughter. I swear, Jacob Black was such a goon! Once I composed myself I sat back down at my desk and immediately dialed a familiar number. My leg began shaking in excitement as I waited for Jake to answer.

"You like the flowers?" Jake asked in greeting.

"I love the flowers," I said shyly, "and your attached note had me flattered before almost literally rolling on the floor in laughter."

Jake chuckled. "I figured you'd get a kick out of that. Would you be upset if I was only half kidding?"

"I was actually hoping you were serious," I replied shyly.

"Glad we're on the same page," Jake replied, though I could practically hear the grin I was sure he was sporting over the phone. "You're not working late tonight, are you?"

"No, though I probably should. I've been a bit…distracted," I said, blushing a bit.

"Distracted, huh?" Jake said slyly. "I'm so fucking awesome."

I rolled my eyes. "Who said you were distracting me, Jake?" I asked, though I'm pretty sure he knew he was the reason I couldn't concentrate. "Besides, I'm not the one writing you poems about how I wanna jump your bones."

"No, but you and I both know you wanna hop on this d-"

"Jake!" I exclaimed, glancing around to see if anyone was listening to my conversation, temporarily forgetting I was sitting in my office with the door closed. I narrowed my eyes as I registered Jake laughing.

"Okay, okay," Jake said, "I forgot you had to be a prude at work."

"I am not a prude!" I whispered harshly.

"Honey, we both know you're anything but a prude, but only when you're not wearing a suit," Jake said, amusement lacing his beautiful voice.

"I swear to you Jacob Black, if I was not at work right now…" I said, letting my threat hang. Jake chuckled.

"Sure, sure. You can spank me later," Jake said, laughing as he did so.

I rolled my eyes but couldn't stop the smile that made its way to my face. "You and your one track mind," I said, shaking my head.

"Says the one who's distracted at work."

I went to respond but realized I didn't have a comeback, especially since Jake was right. "Whatever," I grumbled after a while.

Jake laughed. "I love how articulate you are, Ash." I pouted and glared at my computer monitor. "So, do I have you all to myself again this weekend?"

"If you want," I said, playing coy.

"What do you think, honey," my wolf replied, his voice going several octaves deeper. "You know I never pass up the time to spend time with you."

"Jake…" I said, practically swooning. "You're so sweet."

"It's true, honey, though I may have to share you a bit. Billy misses you and your cooking," Jake said in amusement.

"I'll always have time for Billy! You know what he wants? I need to know if I need to stop of at the store before coming there."

"Nah, he and Charlie just came back from a fishing trip. I already helped him gut them, we just need someone to cook it."

"Glad to know I'm useful for something," I said jokingly. "So, I was thinking about leaving ear-"

"What time?" Jake interrupted.

"Like, now," I said, glancing at the clock. It was two-thirty.

"Really? I'll be there to pick you up! Should be there by three-ish."

"Three? Are you in the area?"

Jake chuckled. "Nope, I'm spending time with my old man."

"Babe, there's no way you can get here at three," I said. Even if he pushed his motorcycle to its limits, it would still take him a little more than a half hour to get here.

"It's so funny how you still underestimate, honey. See you in a bit!" Jake said, before hanging up. I blinked and looked at the receiver before hanging up. That man was too much.

I sighed and got up, walking to my Secretary's desk. "Shannon," I said, drawing her attention to me. "I'm going to cut out early."

She smiled at me. "Good, I'm glad. You work too much for someone your age."

I cocked an eyebrow at Shannon in amusement. "So, you suggest I slack off?"

"No, I suggest you take some time off and relax. The department can run fine for a week or two without you."

I cocked my head to the side in thought. "I was going to take some time off for Thanksgiving, not sure if I'm gonna go home for it or not though. It all depends on what my mom, Jake, and his dad does."

"Whatever you do, just don't work!"

I laughed and shook my head in amusement. "What'll you be doing for Thanksgiving?"

Shannon shrugged. "Have a lot of my family coming in from Arizona plus my husband's family. It also doesn't help my kids want me to make some of everything," Shannon said in amusement. "Why, you're not thinking of changing plans because of me, are you?"

I shrugged and bit my lip. "If you need to take some time-"

"Ashley, it's fine. I'm used to pulling all-nighters for Thanksgiving. I usually start cooking some things a few nights before anyway. You take off and enjoy whatever it is you decide to do."

I smiled at Shannon. "Okay, but if you need to take off, I don't mind-"

"I promise, Ashley, I won't need to take off, but thank you for thinking of me," she said, sincerely.

I smiled and winked at the dark-haired woman. "I have to keep you happy. You're the one who keeps me sane."

Shannon laughed. "It's only because I like you. Besides, my husband needs to do some work in the kitchen! It can't be all up to me!"

I laughed as well. "I appreciate that. I'm going to go and begin packing my things."

Shannon nodded and turned back to her computer monitor as I walked back to my office. Honestly, I don't know what I would do without my Secretary. When I first came on board, she helped me tremendously in getting me used to the norms and customs of the hospital. From a professional standpoint, she's been looking out for me since I've been working here and from a personal standpoint, Shannon makes sure I don't get burnt out from working too hard.

I made it back to my office and began packing up my belongings, noticing it was now two fifty. I sat back down once I was done and closed the internet, eventually shutting down my computer. I decided I'd wait for Jake outside. I walked out of my office, grabbing my flowers in the process and froze. Standing at my Secretary's desk was the object of my thoughts, seemingly in deep conversation with Shannon. He was wearing a smoke grey shirt and a pair of crisp, dark blue jeans with a pair of sneakers. His gaze snapped toward me as I began approaching and he smiled beautifully at me. I felt my own mouth break out in a smile as I took in the sight of him.

"What's going on out here?" I asked, glancing between the two.

"I was just telling Mr. Black here he did a good job with the flowers. You haven't stopped smiling since," Shannon said, winking at me. I blushed slightly at Jake's sly grin. He was never going to let me live this down. "I also informed him of your decision to take the week of Thanksgiving off, just in case you were planning on changing your mind."

"Shannon…" I said, frowning slightly.

"Don't worry Mrs. Spencer, she won't even think about working. I'll make sure of it," Jake responded, smiling sweetly at Shannon before glancing meaningfully at me, his eyes roaming up and down my form before winking at me. I blushed, fidgeting slightly. I was grateful Shannon didn't notice my discomfort.

"You better, Mr. Black," she said seriously before turning to me and smiling sweetly. "Now, you two enjoy your weekend. I'll see you on Tuesday."

I cocked an eyebrow at my Secretary. "Tuesday? I didn't say I was taking off on Monday."

"No, but your calendar is clear for Monday, so if you decided to take off…" Shannon said, grinning slyly.

I glanced at Shannon before glancing at Jake, who was giving me the puppy dog look. I sighed, my resolve instantly crumbling. I turned and smiled at Shannon. "Okay, I'll see you Tuesday then, but if you need me call me."

Shannon grinned in triumph. "Come on, Ashley. I never called you the few times you were off. I meant it when I said I'll only bother you if the department is literally on fire. Now, I'm putting this on your calendar before you change your mind."

I sighed at the older woman. "Fine, just don't throw any parties…at least not without me."

The dark-skinned woman grinned at me. "Duly noted."

I nodded, smiling at the older woman. "Well, you enjoy your weekend. Please say hello to your family for me!"

Shannon nodded. "I will. Good night to you Ashley, Mr. Black."

"Good night!" Jake and I called back simultaneously as we got on the elevator. My wolf reached over and grabbed my workbags, leaving me with my purse and the flowers. He bent down and kissed me softly on the lips as well in greeting.

"Alright, how much did you pay my Secretary to get me to take a day off?"

"Honestly, she just told me to stand there and look handsome, which you and I know wasn't hard-" I rolled my eyes at his statement, "-I just threw in the kicked puppy look to seal the deal," Jake told me proudly.

"Cocky bastard," I said, shaking my head in amusement.

Jake smirked at me and winked. "And don't you forget it, baby!"

We reached the ground floor and stepped off. "So, you bring your bike again?"

Jake looked at me sheepishly before responding. "I kinda ran here."

I glanced blankly at my wolf. "You…ran here," I said flatly as we began walking outside and towards the parking lot. I glanced around discretely before whispering, "As a wolf?"

"Partly," he said in amusement. I gaped at Jake in amazement and he shrugged. "What? Only reason I didn't stay like that is because of the treaty. While I would love to rip the head off of a bunch of self-entitled assholes, Sam would be pissed if I started a war with them."

I nodded in understanding. "Got it. Though I still can't believe you ran all the way here. Sheesh, baby, you missed me that much?" I teased as we reached my car. Jake held the passenger side door open for me once I took of the alarm. I raised an eyebrow at him but got in, passing my keys to him in the process. Jake went over to the driver's side and got in and adjusting the seat before sticking the key in the ignition and turning the car on. Jake turned to me once I put my seatbelt on and leaned over, kissing me passionately.

"What do you think?" He asked when he broke the kiss.

"I think I need another demonstration," I said, licking my lips.

Jake's eyes flashed to my lips at the motion before groaning in frustration. "If you had tinted window's Ash, I would gladly give you a demonstration."

I blushed, though continued with the flirting. "I guess that's something I should invest in? Or maybe you could do it. You are very good with those hands after all."

Jake eyed me heatedly, his breathing increasing slightly. "I swear Ashley, if you continue on like this, I really will give you a demonstration, tinted windows be damned."

I giggled. "Did you bring condoms?"

Jake thought for a moment before his entire demeanor deflated. "No," he grumbled out.

"I guess you're just gonna have to wait then!" I said in a sing-song voice, knowing the affect I was having on him and not caring. This is what he gets for occupying my thoughts for the past week!

"I'm sure there's a pharmacy somewhere," Jake said more to himself than to me before driving off. "Hell, you can never have too many of those things."

"Jake, we're not having sex in my car," I said, rolling my eyes at the horny man driving my car. Jake glanced at me, giving me a distinctly wounded look and I looked at him incredulously. "Baby, look how small my car is! How would we even do it? Plus," I started again as Jake went to answer my rhetorical question, "Billy's hungry. Can't keep my favorite non-wolf guy waiting!"

"You're such a tease," Jake said, pouting at me.

I grinned and shrugged, glancing out the window and watching the scenery. We stayed in a companionable silence until I decided to break it. "So, I found a website with info on the BlackFoot tribe."

"Really?" Jake asked, genuinely surprised. "Why didn't I think to search it on the internet?" Jake asked himself.

I shrugged. "It was kinda generalized info though, but there was an email address listed if you wanted to learn more, so I emailed them. I'm thinking they should get back to me in the next couple of weeks."

Jake nodded. "We'll continue looking on our end as well. We wanna make sure all bases are covered," he said before turning off on a dirt road and driving up an incline.

"Yeah, but at least this is something to start with," I said, leaning back in the passenger seat and relaxing, closing my eyes slightly. I smiled as I felt a warm hand clasp my own cooler one, though I kept my eyes closed. I wasn't so much physically tired, just mentally. This time with Jake should be enough to rejuvenate me, especially since Jake was most likely planning on keeping me busy the entire weekend.

"Are you up for stopping by Billy's tonight? We can always do it tomorrow."

I shook my head and opened my eyes to see Jake eyeing me out of the corner of his dark brown eyes in worry. "No, we can do it tonight. I miss seeing Billy. I hope he doesn't think I completely deserted him."

"Nah, he was young and in love once," Jake said as he turned down a familiar road, the small red house off in the distance. I cocked an eyebrow when I noticed the police cruiser there belonging to the Fork's Police Department. I cocked an eyebrow at Jake who had his eyebrows furrowed in thought. "Charlie's here…and I can scent Bella as well," Jake said before glancing at me seriously. "Think you can behave?" He asked, smirking at me.

I rolled my eyes. "If she doesn't make me mad, then yes. If she does, Charlie may be hauling me off to spend the weekend in the County Jail."

Jake pulled up to the house before turning off the car and looking at me. "I doubt she'd say anything about leeches or shifters since Charlie doesn't know all of this shit exists."

I nodded. "I'll be sure not to slip up then," I said, smiling reassuringly at Jake. Jake smiled in return before kissing me once again on the lips and stepping out the car. I stepped out as well and we walked up the steps together, hand-in-hand.

"Dad, we're here!" Jake called out, opening the screen door and stepping in.

"Jacob?" Billy asked as I heard his wheels screeching towards us. He cocked an eyebrow at me in surprise. "You went to pick up Ashley? The way you ran outta here, I thought you'd seen a ghost!"

I laughed and looked at Jake slyly. Oh, he was never living this one down!

Jake pouted and glared at Billy. "Not funny, dad. When'd Charlie and Bella get here?"

Billy shrugged. "A lil' while ago," he said before glancing at me and lowering his voice. "You gonna be okay Ash?" Billy whispered. I frowned. He knew about my altercation with Bella, too? I glanced at Jake who looked at me guiltily before I glanced back at Billy.

"I'm fine, Billy. I've…cooled down since then," I said, smiling reassuringly at the older man. Billy eyed me in contemplation before nodding and smiling.

"Good. Come on, everyone's in the living room," Billy said, motioning for us to follow. Jake rubbed circles with thumb on my hand and I squeezed his own in thanks. Upon entering the living room, two sets of eyes looked me; one set calculating and aloof, the other set unreadable and slightly angry.

"Hi," I said to the two, smiling slightly and waving awkwardly. If they were staying for dinner tonight, things were going to be interesting.

"Ashley," Charlie said, nodding slightly. Bella waved awkwardly as well.

I glanced at Billy, who just shrugged before wheeling himself over by the couch and striking up a conversation with Charlie. I got the distinct feeling Charlie didn't like me very much. I glanced at Jake who was watching Bella, his eyebrow cocked as if to say "why are you here?" I watched the two closely as a silent conversation seemed to be taking place between them. I'm not gonna lie, I was starting to feel slightly out of place.

"I'm just gonna get started on cooking the fish," I said awkwardly, mostly talking to Billy. "Any particular way you want it?"

Billy grinned at me. "Fried is always better!"

I shook my head at the older man before turning and walking to the kitchen, letting go of Jake's hand in the process.

"I'll help." I froze in mid-step as Bella's voice registered in my ears. I glanced over my shoulder and put on the best smile that I could muster.

"It's fine, I got it," I said, trying to keep the strain from my voice. The last time we were close to each other, we were arguing. Why would she want to be confined with me in a small kitchen?!

"Please, I insist," came the reply. I turned around and saw the young woman standing a few feet from me. I glanced at Jake who looked just as clueless as I felt. I glanced at Billy who glanced momentarily at me and nodded discretely. Well, if Billy thinks it's okay…

"Alright," I said, walking into the kitchen and immediately grabbing the fish out of the fridge.

"Jake, wanna help?" Bella asked in the threshold of the kitchen. I didn't hear a response but I did hear the rustling of clothing. So, Bella wanted to speak with the both of us. I sighed as I washed my hands and began seasoning some of the fish. Sheesh, I wonder of Billy and Charlie left any in the lake for everyone else.

I glanced up to see Jake leaning against the wall, his arms crossed over his broad chest. He was looking at Bella, waiting for her to start talking. Bella glanced at Jake, smiling slightly, before glancing at me. The doe-eyed woman took a deep breath before turning to me.

"How's everything?"

I cocked an eyebrow at the young woman. So, we were really going to do this?

"I'm fine… and you?"

"I've been good."

"Good."

I continued seasoning the fish, only stopping to add grease and turn on the deep fryer I had left here one day so it could start getting hot.

I heard a sigh. "I'm trying to say I'm sorry, to both of you."

I bit my tongue, mostly out of respect for Billy. So just say it then. I glanced at Jake who was watching Bella warily.

"I get why you're apologizing to Ash, but why me?"

"I just… I really want to be friends again, Jake," Bella said, finally walking closer to the counter where I was. She took the other batch of fish that I hadn't gotten to yet. She washed her hands in the sink and began seasoning. "And I really am sorry for involving you in this, Ashley, but it really was an accident."

I glanced at the long-haired woman before putting some of the seasoned fish in the basket and lowering it into the hot grease. I sighed as I heard that little voice in my head telling me to be nice.

Stupid conscience. Sometimes I wish I could be a bitch without a second thought. I guess this is what happens when your mom raises you to be forgiving and sympathetic.

I glanced at Bella, who was watching me sadly. To be honest, I felt bad for the girl. She was hunted by a deranged vampire because Edward killed said deranged vampire's mate; her best friend and quite possibly the only person who understood her and this supernatural stuff was the sworn enemy of the one thing she was in love with; said best friend fell in love with her but she didn't reciprocate his feelings…which, let's be honest, I'm glad she didn't or else Jake and I wouldn't be together like we are; and now, she inadvertently endangered the love of her best friend because she happened to tell her boyfriend that her best friend's girlfriend was descended from a tribe that was technically helping vampires, albeit against their will.

Wow, this fuckery sounds like a bad soap opera…and now, I'm the friggin' star.

I shook my head ruefully and sighed. She had better not make me regret what I was about to do.

"Bella, I'm sorry too," I said, looking at the woman. I heard Jake choke in the background and fought the urge to not laugh. Bella, however, looked as surprised as I'm sure Jake felt.

"I…what are you apologizing for?" Bella asked, amazed.

Other than ripping you a new asshole a few times? "I shouldn't have blamed you for…you know," I said, turning towards the doorway to make sure no one was listening before turning back to Bella who looked genuinely surprised. "I was honestly upset when I got the news. I mean, here I was spending an amazing weekend with my boyfriend when we get this random call out of the blue."

"Oh," Bella said, meekly, glancing at Jake and blushing slightly. "Sorry to interrupt," she offered lamely.

"And I know you tell Edward everything, just like I tell Jake everything," I said, taking the first batch of fried fish out of the grease. I grabbed the tongs and placed them in a plate. "So, I really shouldn't be mad you told him, I guess," I said as Bella handed over the batch she had been seasoning. I placed them in the basket before lowering them down into the grease.

"Doesn't change the fact he's still a dick," Jake said from his spot against the wall. I laughed while Bella shook her head and rolled her eyes.

"He feels the same about you, Jake, though he's a bit more…refined…in saying so," Bella said, laughing lightly.

"Sure, sure," Jake said, waving his hand back and forth in dismissal. "Glad the feeling's mutual," he said before mumbling something else I couldn't hear.

I shook my head at Jake before going in the cabinet and grabbing a few bags of yellow rice. I should've put this on the same time as I was cooking.

"So, Billy let you stay here with Jake last weekend?" Bella asked as she tended the fish as I made the rice.

"Not exactly," I said, glancing at Jake from the corner of my eye. He walked over and sat down at the kitchen table.

"I moved down the road," Jake said, finally deciding to take an active role in this conversation. "Though, not fully. I'm kinda alternating between here and there."

Bella stared at Jake, her eyes wide. "You moved out?! Wow…I…I didn't know…" Bella said, trailing off sadly, her eyes taking a faraway look. Jake and I shared a look.

"It just happened last week," Jake said, watching the woman closely.

Bella nodded, frowning slightly. "Normally, I'd be upset you didn't tell me, but I haven't exactly been around."

"No, you haven't," Jake agreed. I glanced at Jake who seemed to be trembling slightly. I mouthed for him to calm down and he nodded. "But I haven't exactly been around either," he added.

I smiled at my wolf. "Maybe Jake could show you the house? It's really nice; he fixed it up himself," I said proudly.

"Or we could show you the house," Jake said, making sure to emphasize the "we," "Ash's been helping me decorate."

Bella smiled at me before glancing at Jake. "Sure, I'd love for you both to give me a tour sometime soon."

The conversation in the kitchen continued on, thankfully less tense than before. While Bella and I were no where near being friends, it was nice to hear her and Jake laugh and joke around, though I can still tell Jake was a bit tense. I applaud him for keeping his composure though, considering the last time he practically told her he'd prefer if she were dead rather than her becoming a vampire.

Soon, dinner was ready and I fixed Billy a plate as Bella fixed Charlie a plate. I laughed as Billy cheered, saying he missed my cooking. I told I would stop by more often just to make him dinner. When I got back to the kitchen, Jake had made himself two plates and was happily eating away at one. I shook my head in amusement and walked to the cabinet with every intention of grabbing a plate, but Jake reached his hand out and grabbed my arm.

"I fixed your plate," Jake said, his mouth full of food. I glanced at the made up plate and, while there was a huge portion size on it, it was significantly less that what Jake had piled on his plate. I smiled at Jake, bending over to kiss his cheek in thanks before sitting next to him. Bella walked back into the kitchen and immediately began fixing her plate before joining us at the kitchen table.

We continued talking, purposefully avoiding the topic of all things supernatural. Instead, we talked about the upcoming holidays, of all things. Soon, Bella and Charlie were leaving, saying their goodnights. Jake and I spent some time with Billy, catching up with him. I didn't realize just how much I missed the older man. I would definitely need to stop by more often.

Soon, Jake and I were leaving, though I did feel bad leaving the older man by himself. He assured me he would be fine since he would have some company stopping by later. Jake shook his head at his father while I just watched the older man in surprise, though I'm not sure why. After all, Billy was a handsome man.

Jake and I were soon on our way to his home. I was so full, it's a wonder I was even able to move. God, I just wanted to get into bed and sleep for days. I closed my eyes Jake drove the short distance to his own home.

"I have a surprise for you."

My eyes snapped open and I glanced at Jake.

Sleep can wait!

"Really?! What is it?" I asked, suddenly finding my second wind.

Jake rolled his eyes and grinned at me. "Honey, didn't we go through this last week?"

"We did, baby, which is why I thought you knew better than to taunt me with surprises."

Jake shook his head. "You must've been a pain to deal with on Christmas."

I laughed. "I definitely was! I drove my poor mom nuts, that is, until she told me she had Santa Claus on speed-dial and would call him to get him to return my gifts," I said, pouting at the memory. Jake laughed and shook his head in amusement. "Then, when I got older, she threatened to not get me anything if I drove her crazy with asking her what she got me every couple of minutes."

Jake laughed as he pulled up to his home that now had the beginnings of a ramp present. I was glad, since I knew Billy would want to be visiting soon. We got out, Jake helping me grab my work bags as I grabbed my flowers and walked to the front door. When Jake unlocked the door, I was surprised to see the addition of a wide, black stand to the left of the tapestry and on the floor near it was a box with a fifty-two inch screen TV.

"I see someone was decorating without me," I teased.

"I do okay when I need to," Jake responded, putting my bags by the coat hanger. I walked over and put my flowers on the stand. I noticed it had four draws on the bottom, along with a space to put a cable box. Jake did good with this one.

"Like it?"

I nodded and turned to him. "This is great! And I can't wait to see the TV hooked up. I like this surprise," I said, sincerely.

Jake blinked and shook his head. "That's not the surprise."

I looked at Jake in confusion. "Oh."

Jake chuckled, walking towards me. "It's two things, actually," Jake said as he stopped in front of me. "Here," Jake said, handing me an envelope.

I took the envelope, turning it around in my hands, noticing there were no markings on the paper. I could hear the sound of metal on metal, but I wasn't sure what it was. Shrugging, I opened the paper and furrowed my eyebrows as a set of keys stared back at me. I took them out and held them up, not quite understanding what these were for.

Jake's hand covered mine as he spoke. "These are the keys to my home."

I looked at Jake in awe before smiling widely and hugging his waist. "Aww, baby! You do realize now there's no way to get rid of me right now, right?"

Jake grinned. "Like I'd ever want to do that. Now, on to your second surprise…" Jake said, pulling out a small velvet box as I let go of his waist. My mouth fell open in surprise and my eyes got big. Before I could read anymore into it, Jake shook his head. "No, it's not that…at least, not yet," he said as he opened the box, revealing a beautiful silver ring with a diamond heart. "It's a promise ring."

My eyes watered and, while I knew it wasn't an engagement ring, this still meant a lot to me. "Jake…" I breathed out, not finding the words I wanted to say.

"I know with the imprint, it could seem like we're obligated to be together, but I want you to know that it's more than that for me. You've done so much for me, Ash…and you've been so accepting of me…like all of me, y'know?" Jake said, his eyes expressing sincerity. "This ring is my promise to you…to always be there for you like you've been for me, not matter what."

Jake took the ring out of the casing and grabbed my left hand, placing the ring on my left ring finger. I held up my hand, admiring the ring through the haze of tears. I glanced at Jake, who took my hand in his own before bringing it to his lips and kissing it. I blushed before throwing myself into his arms.

"Baby, you didn't have to do this," I said as he bent down and kissed my head.

"I know, but I wanted to," Jake said, swaying side to side with me in his arms. "I love you, Ashley."

I smiled into his broad chest. "I love you, too, Jake."

AN 2: So next chapter, I'll probably be raising the rating from T to M. Yeah, shit's about to go down and it won't be pretty. Plus, Jake and Ash need more alone time…at least, in my opinion!

Thanks for sticking with me!