Author's Note: Happy Holidays to everyone!

Thanks to everyone who took the time to review! You guys are wonderful! Also, thanks to everyone that liked and/or favorited this story!

I got a lot of great feedback last chapter. Was it the action of the sex? Either way, thank you everyone! By the way, this chapter was a pain to write. I rewrote this sum'bitch several times. Hopefully, it was worth it, though it is a bit shorter than normal. I'll make it up to you guys in the next chapter!

Chapter Summary: Jake still isn't feeling all that Sam has to say and Ash and Leah has a little heart to heart.

Chapter 19

"That's not happening."

"We need to exhaust all options."

"That. Is. Not. Happening."

"Jacob, think about this reasonably."

"I am, Sam, and because I'm thinking reasonably, I do not want to involve those bloodsuckers."

I sighed as I seasoned the chicken wings for lunch, making extra for the bottomless stomachs that would soon be joining us since Sam decided to have the meeting at Jake's. It wasn't originally planned like that, but Jake and Sam has been in the front talking for who knows how long. Sam came over this morning, waking Jake and I from our slumber. The older man wanted to speak with Jake in order to clear the air between the two of them. Sam didn't apologize, rather, he reiterated he was making decisions for the greater good. Jake being Jake, told Sam he could shove those decisions and reiterated that keeping me safe was his only priority. That answer had resulted in another argument that thankfully didn't escalate as much as yesterday, and considering I was the only one here to get between them, I was extremely grateful. Now, their conversation consisted of Sam trying to explain his reasoning for involving the Cullen's. Jake, of course, wasn't having it.

"Why must you be so stubborn?!"

"Why can't you accept that I don't want them around my imprint!"

I rolled my eyes. They were back to yelling at each other again.

"They have information!"

"I don't give a fuck if they held the answers to all of life's greatest questions! They are not to come near my girlfriend!"

I shook my head as I turned on the stove and poured grease in the pan. The broccoli and mashed potatoes were done and sitting on the stove. Maybe I should make a cake for desert? I'm sure they'd love that.

"Those two need to give it a rest."

I jumped and turned around, my hand over my heart. "Holy crap, Leah! You scared the crap outta me!" Sheesh, she's quiet on her feet!

"Keep it down," she said before glancing at me mischievously. "Wouldn't want you to sic lover boy on me."

I shook my head and rolled my eyes. "He's preoccupied with Sam now, so I think you're fine."

"Can't say I'm surprised. Jake's hate for the Cullen's runs pretty deep, especially with that whole leech lover debacle," Leah said, going in one of the cabinets and rummaging around. "You got any chips?"

I went to the cabinet near the fridge and tossed the bag of unopened potato chips at her. She caught it effortlessly before grabbing a handful and munching loudly.

"How'd you by pass those two anyway?" I asked, turning back to the stove and adding a few pieces of the seasoned chicken to the hot grease.

"They barely noticed me," she said. "Walked right passed them and they did nothing, probably 'cuz I'm not a threat."

I shook my head sadly. "I just wish they would stop. I feel bad bringing this on-"

"I know, I know, you feel guilty," Leah said, rolling her eyes and waving her hand back and forth in dismissal. I frowned as she took another handful of chips and chewed slowly, savoring each bite. "But here's the thing; you have nothing to feel guilty over. I don't blame you for anything. The pack doesn't blame you for anything, and you sure 's hell know Jacob doesn't blame you for anything. So how about you do us all a favor and stop blaming yourself,"Leah said, rolling her eyes and adding: "Feisty Ashley is so much better to be around."

I turned and stared at Leah, prepared to give every reason in the book as to why I feel guilty. "But Jake and Sam wouldn't be fighting if-"

"Wrong," Leah said, fishing in the cabinet for a glass and opening the fridge to get a drink. She was quite comfortable in a home that wasn't hers. "Jake and Sam would've been at each other's throats eventually," she said, grabbing the jug of water and pouring herself a tall glass. "Sam has an authority complex and Jake's stubborn as hell," she said before taking a sip of water. "They were bound to clash soon. I'm just surprised it took this long."

Leah took another swig of water, staring at me as if challenging me to say something else about the issue. I sighed, turning back to the frying chicken and checking it to make sure it wasn't burning.

"What's your stance on all of this?" I asked, taking out the first batch of chicken and adding in the second batch.

Leah shrugged. "I see both sides, honestly, though I'd have to agree with Jacob. I'm against the whole 'allowing your mortal enemies to help' plan," Leah said making quotation marks with her fingers. "Besides, if not for the Cullen's, I would've never phased," Leah said quietly. I glanced at her and saw her eyes turn sad and hollow. She was probably thinking about her father, among other things.

I shook my head sadly. I know the Cullen's were supposed to be the good vampires, but I couldn't help feeling they caused many inadvertent issues with their presence; I knew Jake's issues with them, but it never dawned on me that other members of the pack had personal issues with them as well.

"I'd have to agree with you," I said, frowning. "Though only because I'm pretty terrified of those things."

Leah raised a delicate eyebrow at me. "What happened to all that bravery you showed at the meeting? You know, threatening to light asses on fire?"

"You guys won't let me live that down, will you?" I said, laughing lightly as I checked the chicken. "Besides, that wasn't my fault. That bimbo was being disrespectful to Jake and since Jake couldn't exactly speak up for himself at that time, I had to say something," I said, taking up the other batch and adding in the third one. "I felt this…protective urge and I was offended on his –on all of your –behalf," I said, remembering how I felt that night. "And believe you me, if shit hadda popped off, I woulda set some asses on fire!"

Leah laughed heartily, shaking her head in amusement. "And this is why I like you, Ash."

I smiled and couldn't help feeling elated. Leah liked me, which means she accepted me as Jake's imprint, not that her opinion would've made or broke our relationship. It was just nice to have acceptance from the pack.

"Leah, everyone's here. We're beginning meeting," Sam's deep baritone resounded from the front. He sounded agitated and tired. Jake was probably wearing on his last nerve.

Leah rolled her eyes, taking the bag of chips and water with her. "See ya in a bit, Ashley. Duty calls," she added sarcastically. I shook my head at the woman, happy we were able to have that chat. Now, if I could only get myself to take her advice and not feel guilty about everything.

I continued cooking, frying the rest of the chicken. I really hope they'll be able to agree soon. Maybe they can just agree to disagree and call it a day?

"-to a consensus yet?" I heard Jared's exasperated tone rise in frustration.

"No," Sam spat out, "because Jacob can't see reason-"

"I'll see reason when you give me something reasonable to go on, Sam!"

Silence.

Were they still talking? I couldn't make out much back here in the kitchen. I turned off the stove and took up the last bit of chicken left in the grease. Should I disturb the meeting to tell them food's done?

"Jacob," I heard Sam say, his tone tired. "I'm trying to give you the benefit of the doubt because Ashley is your imprint, but I need you to work with me here!"

"Work with you how Sam? By agreeing to something I don't agree with? May as well issue an Alpha order and make me agree," Jake said cynically.

"You'd just break it again, Black," I heard Leah say flatly. I could just picture her rolling her eyes.

"Hn, she's right," I heard Jake say, his voice holding challenge.

Silence.

This was not good. I sighed, shaking my head and walking to the front, using the guise of food to interrupt the meeting and hopefully break the tension. I walked into the front room and was surprised at what I saw. Sam was on one side of the room, Jake on the other and both were glaring fiercely at each other, though Jake wore a cocky smirk on his handsome face. The pack, for the most part, was scattered between the two, though Embry and Leah were closer to Jake whereas Jared and Paul were closer to Sam. Poor Seth was in the middle looking a little helpless whereas Quil's expression was conflicted, almost as if he was trying to figure out who's side he was on.

Jake's eyes flickered to me, his gaze softening considerably when he looked at me. "Uh, lunch is ready," I said quietly, though it sounded really loud in the tensely silent room. "You know, whenever you guys are done."

Sam nodded at me. "Thank you, Ashley."

I nodded, smiling softly and turning on my heel, preparing to walk back to the kitchen. "Ashley," I turned my head and glanced at Leah who called my name. "What's your stance in all of this?"

I eyed the young woman in disbelief as she asked me the exact same question I asked her earlier. She was not putting me on the spot in front of everyone! I glanced around the room and became nervous when I saw everyone's eyes fixed on me. Oh boy…

"Don't be nervous, honey," my eyes flickered to Jake's as he watched me closely. "You're ultimately the one who has to be comfortable with whatever decision we make."

I watched him closely, his expression honest and open, yet determined. I bit my lip nervously, turning to Sam, who was watching me intently, an unreadable expression on his face. I really didn't want to be put in the middle of anything, but looks like I will be. Thanks Leah.

Note to self: Leah likes to start trouble.

"I," my voice cracked before I cleared it. I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "I don't want to cause any more problems, but I'm not too thrilled about the idea of vampires near me…even if they don't feed on humans." I held my right elbow in my left hand and did my best to not fidget as Sam's gaze seemed to turn even harder.

"You heard her," Jake said sternly. "She wants no leeches around her."

"What if I can promise you they won't come around you?" Sam asked me. Before I could answer, Jake did so.

"We can't guarantee that, Sam!" Jake said in frustration. "You know as well as I do-"

"I'm speaking with Ashley!" Sam snapped at Jake though his fierce eyes were still on me. I couldn't help but flinch at the harsh tone of voice. I was surprised; I've never heard Sam use that tone before.

In the blink of an eye, probably faster, Jake invaded my vision. His back was facing me, though I could tell he was tense. I was able to make out the unmistakable sound of a growl coming from him as well. Embry and Jared stood up, standing between the two, the former looking at me meaningfully as he glanced between Jake and myself. It took me a few seconds before I caught on to what he was trying to say.

"Jake," I said hesitantly. Jake's head turned to the side, showing he was listening to me. I was instantly reminded of the first time we had lunch at the diner in town and ran into Edward and Bella. "Baby, I'm fine." I reached for his arm and gasped softly. His skin was burning up and I could feel him trembling. "I'm just a little jumpier than usual with everything going on."

"I'm sorry, Ashley," Sam said, looking apologetically at me. I smiled softly at the man and nodded before his eyes turned back on Jake and hardened, "My anger wasn't directed at you." I cringed slightly, hoping Sam's jab wouldn't set Jake off. Luckily, Jake didn't react.

My wolf made no motion to move from in front of me. "See, baby, Sam apologized to me," I whispered, even though I knew everyone in here could hear me clearly. "Calm down, it's fine. I'm fine." I said, rubbing his back soothingly. Jake relaxed a bit, but was still very tense.

"No bloodsuckers around her," Jake said, his deep and authoritative voice sent a shiver down my spine.

"If I can ensure they won't come near her?" Sam asked, his voice deep and just as authoritative. Jake was quiet for a bit before Sam added: "I just need information, Jacob."

"You can get your information as long as they stay away from Ash," Jake said, walking forward towards the man, though Embry and Jared blocked his way. Jake stopped in front of the two men, invading their personal space, before addressing Sam. "But if they come anywhere near my imprint…if they do anything else that makes her upset or cry or uncomfortable or do anything to scare her, hell, if they even look in her direction, I can guaran-damn-tee you that you will have a bigger issue on your hands than figuring out what we're up against with the Volturi. Am I clear?"

I watched the scene with anxious wide eyes. As long as we've been dating, I've never heard Jake use that tone of voice. He was so…authoritative and serious. I couldn't see Jake's expression, but if his body posture was anything to go by, he was glaring something fierce at Sam.

"Is that a threat?"

"No, it's a promise."

Sam's eyes widened slightly as he stared at Jake, his eyes seizing him up and trying to determine just how serious he was. Much to his credit, Sam was not backing down from Jake, though I did catch a hint of…uneasiness?... in his expression. I was even more surprised when the leader of the pack broke eye contact for a moment, glancing to the side briefly. I wasn't the only one surprised as I saw Paul raise his eyebrows as he glanced between the two.

"Understood."

Jake stayed in front of Sam for a minute before turning his back to him and turning towards me. His jaw was set in fierce determination, his eyes serious. I watched my wolf in awe as he gracefully and confidently walked towards me, and, for the first time that I can remember, I felt the power he exuded in his wolf form radiating from his human form. Jake's eyes ran over me for a moment, almost as if double-checking to make sure I was indeed fine. Normally, I would've given him a smile and told him not to worry, but Jake's behavior surprised me. My wolf held my gaze for a moment, his expression unreadable, before walking to the kitchen.

My eyes followed him for a moment before I turned back to the pack who all had been watching Jake. I heard the clattering of plates and silverware, signaling Jake was fixing some food. That noise also seemed to jar everyone out of their stupor.

Sam cleared his throat, glancing around. "That's all for right now. We'll reconvene after I speak with Carlisle." Everyone nodded, seemingly not able to speak after what occurred between Jake and Sam. Sam nodded before walking out the door silently, avoiding eye contact on the way. I kind of felt bad for the older man. His authority was just demeaned in front of those he was supposed to be leading. Jared and Paul shared a look before both saying goodbye to me and leaving, most likely going after Sam.

I glanced around at those that remained and frowned. They all looked emotionally drained, save for Leah, who actually had a small satisfied smile on her face. I narrowed my eyes at her; this wouldn't have happened had she not asked my opinion.

"You guys can help yourselves. There's plenty food."

Quil glanced at me, his expression tired and nodded. "Thanks," he said, before making his way to the kitchen. Seth nodded politely at me, smiling softly, before making his way to the kitchen as well. Leah stood, prepared to make her way to the back but I stopped her.

"Leah, can you help me with something outside?"

Leah glanced at me, raising a delicate eyebrow before nodding. Embry cleared his throat, drawing my attention. "Thanks for lunch," he said as he walked over to me and placing a hand on my shoulder. "Go easy on her. She really does mean well." I heard Leah scoff as Embry walked to the back with the rest of the guys, leaving me and Leah alone. I inclined my head towards the door before walking outside, Leah following me.

"You do know they could still hear us," Leah said. I pursed my lips, glaring at the young woman.

"What the hell was that? You just put me in the middle of their shit!" I exclaimed, my hands crossing in front of my chest. I was not happy.

"No Ashley, you were already in the middle," Leah said matter-of-factly. "What I did was help resolve the problem."

I blinked in disbelief. "Helped resolve the problem?! Were you not paying attention in there?!" Did she not see how angry Jake and Sam got with each other? Did she not witness Sam damn near snap? Did she not see upset and serious Jake was when Sam snapped? How was she helping the problem?!

Leah glared at me, but I refused to back down. "Of course I was paying attention in there! That's why I asked your opinion! Don't you see? You are an imprint, which means you'll be protected no matter what. However, you need to have a say in how you're protected!"

"I do have a say!" I countered stubbornly. "Jake knows-"

"That's the problem!" Leah said, throwing her hands up in exasperation. I frowned. Come again? "Yes, Jacob knows how you really feel, but not the pack!"

I blinked in surprise, all of my annoyance with the situation leaving me. "I just assumed…"

Leah sighed, shaking her head sadly. "No one else but Jake knew your stance, and because of that, he was seen as just being a prick, well…more so than usual." Leah quipped. "My point is Sam is more inclined to listen to you because you're not a threat."

"And Jake is?"

"Jake's the rightful Alpha, remember?" Leah reminded me. My eyes lit with understanding.

"Sam's feeling threatened by Jake because he thinks Jake is challenging him for the Alpha position?"

"Pretty much."

"But Jake told me he doesn't want it," I said in confusion.

Leah eyed me seriously. "Jake will do anything to keep you safe, even if it means him becoming Alpha."

My eyes widened in surprise once again at Leah's words. Jake told me he didn't want the position, but…but he would take it if it means keeping me safe? I shook my head, glancing to the side sadly. The last thing I wanted was for him to force himself to do something that he ultimately didn't want to do. I glanced back at Leah who was eyeing me closely.

"Are we done with this conversation? I'd like to get some food before it's gone."

I nodded and Leah walked back in the house. I followed a few moments after her, my mind reeling from the conversation. Jake was really prepared to do whatever it took to keep me safe, even if it meant becoming Alpha, which he wasn't too keen on. I would need to talk to my wolf to see where his head was and make sure he wouldn't do something he would ultimately regret in the long run.

I walked into the kitchen, seeing Jake casually speaking with Quil and Embry, all three leaning against the wall and eating. We really needed to get a dining room set. Leah was fixing her a plate while Seth was eating with gusto, smiling at me when he saw me at his place on the counter.

"This tastes great, Ash!"

I smiled at the young man and reached up to ruffle his hair. "Glad you like it," I said, about to grab a plate but realized there was a made up one on the counter with a smaller portion. I glanced at Jake, who was watching me closely before nodding at me. I smiled at him before grabbing it and hopping up on the counter next to Seth.

"Dude, you need a table with chairs," Quil said, shaking his head sadly. "This shit's just primitive," he said, referring to them standing and eating.

"Look at you using three syllable words n' shit," Embry joked, reaching up and ruffling his hair. Quil growled, before swatting his hand away.

"If you're gonna talk about my shit, you can leave, bro," Jake said around a mouthful of food.

Quil rolled his eyes. "Don't be a sensitive Sally. 'sides, why would I leave all this good food for you two assholes?" Quil said before grinning at me. "Anytime you're cookin' Ash, call me," he said, winking at me. I laughed and shook my head at him. Jake, however, swiped him on the side of the head. "Dude, I meant nuthin' by it! Everyone knows she's off limits!"

Leah rolled her eyes before coming to stand next to me as she began eating. "When will he learn?"

"Never," Embry laughed out.

I laughed as well. "Next time I cook a big meal, I'll let you know, Quil." Quil beamed at me before turning to Jake and making a face. Jake rolled his eyes before shooting me a look.

"You do know we'll never get rid of him now, right?"

"That just gives us a reason to go furniture shopping so we can fix up the guest room!"

"Pick up a kitchen set while you're at it," Quil quipped.

We continued eating and talking with each other, the conversation light. I found I rather enjoyed the presence of the pack. I especially enjoyed seeing Jake back to his normal self-assured, joking self. It was a bit unnerving to see him so…intense. While he wasn't completely at ease, I think talking and joking with his friends definitely helped relax him a bit. Leah and Seth soon left and I couldn't help but smile as Embry walked them out. Jake and Quil heckled the poor guy, making him blush before flipping them both off. He soon came back in, swinging at both Quil and Jake when they teased him about his relationship with Leah.

I washed the dishes and cleaned the kitchen as Jake hooked up the TV once he decided to stop horsing around with Quil and Embry. He didn't have cable yet, just internet. Of course, Embry and Quil made fun of him and I shook my head, listening to them. Once I was done with the kitchen, I walked to the front to join them. We sat around, talking and joking, well they guys were talking and joking. I was busy laughing my ass off. These three were a riot to be around!

When it started getting late, Quil and Embry left, saying good night to me and giving me a hug. They each slapped hands with Jake before saying they would see him later. Jake walked them out before coming back in and looking at me. I smiled, patting the couch next to me and he came over and sat before laying his head on my lap. I massaged his scalp and smiled as I felt him relax. My mind wondered back to the conversation with Leah earlier and I mentally sighed before speaking. I needed to know what he planned on doing.

"Baby?" Jake turned to look at me. "I…you wouldn't do something…that you're not happy with, right?" I asked, fumbling through my question. Jake eyed me seriously.

"Like becoming Alpha?"

"You heard me talking with Leah?"

"Kinda hard not to; wolf hearing and all," he said before sighing. "If I needed to, I would."

"Wouldn't you be unhappy?" I asked, frowning at him. "I remember you telling me you didn't want it."

"I would do anything to keep you safe."

"Even at the expense of your own happiness?"

Jake eyed me in complete seriousness. "Honey, you make me happy. If anything happened to you…" Jake trailed off, shaking his head.

"Baby, I know you'll protect me. It's just…I don't want you making rash decisions because of me," I said, leaning over him and kissing his forehead for a change. "Just…promise me you'll think clearly regarding any decision you make."

"I promise," Jake said. I smiled before leaning down and kissing him on the lips.

"Good," I said, hovering above his lips as I gazed into his eyes. "That's three promises you have to keep," I said, caressing his handsome face. My heart was filled with so much love for this man.

"I know, honey," he said, leaning up and kissing me chastely. "I won't let you down."

I smiled as I continued massaging his scalp, relaxing my fierce warrior. I knew my Jake would work diligently to keep me safe, and I was appreciative of that. "I guess tomorrow we should stop by my apartment so I can grab more things?"

"Sure, sure, honey," Jake said, smiling softly and sighing in contentment. He closed his eyes and breathed deeply. I was just glad he was calm and collected right now, though I'd be lying to myself if I said powerful, no-nonsense Jake wasn't a huge turn on. The way his body tensed, causing every muscle to become taut against smooth skin; the way his voice grew deep and rich and authoritative when he meant business. I bit my lip and glanced down at Jake who was eyeing me lazily, a knowing expression on his face.

"What's that look for?"

Jake smirked at me, his already dark eyes darkening more. "I can smell how aroused you are," he said simply, making my mouth open in shock and my face heat in embarrassment. To make matters worse Jake turned his head towards my abdomen, which probably heightened the scent.

"Jake, that's…disturbing."

" 's not exactly a bad thing, Ash. You smell so good," Jake said, giving me a heated look.

"I think I'd be more flattered if the scent was coming from…somewhere else…"

"Honey, you have nothing to be embarrassed about, believe me," Jake said, reaching up and running a hand through my hair. "You taste just as good as you smell."

"Jake!" I exclaimed, hiding my face with my hands. I heard Jake chuckle as he made a show of burrowing his head into my lap. "Can we please talk about something else?" The fact that he could scent my arousal with me still fully clothed was extremely embarrassing.

"You're my favorite subject, honey," he said, smirking at me. "It's my purpose in life to become an expert in 'Ashology,'" he said making quotation marks with his fingers. I rolled my eyes and before I could respond, there was a howl in the distance, making Jake sit up quickly. "Stay here, Ash," he said, getting up and taking his clothes off before running out the door. I got up, running after him, but stopping in front of the screen door. It was dark out, but I was able to make out the huge form of Jake's wolf. He was facing the tree line, his huge body ready to pounce if need be. I watched the tree line with him, trying to see if there was anything I could make out. My eyes widened slightly as I saw movement before a smaller wolf came through. Jake trotted off towards the newcomer before running off. The wolf jogged towards me and as it got closer, I realized it was Seth.

"Seth, is everything okay?" I called out, knowing he could hear me. Seth nodded before glancing around. What was he looking for? Oh God, it wasn't another vampire, was it?

Seth went on the other side of the garage and I anxiously waited for his return. What was going on?

"Everything's fine, Ash," Seth said, buttoning his pants and smiling widely at me.

"What's going on?" I asked as the young man made his way up the steps of the porch. I stepped away from the door and allowed the lanky boy in. Seth's smile faltered slightly as he looked at me seriously.

"The pack has a new member."