I just wanted to add that Gabz's mother's name, Ojinjintka, means Rose. I know the middle name 'Rose' is so... cliché? Common? But it's honestly my favorite flower. My grandfather used to take care of roses. Bella's middle name is also 'Marie' so I thought it'd make sense for Gabz to have a common middle name. Charlie named her and, in this story, he named her similar to Bella in hope that Bella's mom would accept her and not leave.

I should mention the elders call her Gabe. Charlie calls her Gabe one Gabby and her friends call her Gabz.

Also, in my story Charlie Swan is of Italian heritage. I know it's supposed to be a joke when the Cullen's make an Italian food because Isabella is an Italian name but, in this story, they are actually Italian. I'm doing it as a tribute to Spaghetti, Lasagna, and all other delicious pastas out there. It's the least I could do.

Btw, if you didn't know, I'm Asian (;

Bella drove me to school today.

"My first day at a new school. It's March. The middle of the semester. Great." Bella's voice startled me.

"Are you… talking to me?" My eyes narrowed as I peered over to the driver's side slowly. Bella seemed surprised, like she had forgotten I was there. I knew the feeling. Her eyes grew wider and were moving around as if she thinking of an excuse. But I knew exactly what was going on in her head.

"Who else would I be talking to?" she said slowly, her eyes also narrowing but still staying on the road.

"It just sounded like… you were narrating a story or something. Sorry." The road suddenly became fascinating to me. I stared at it for the remainder of the trip.

"Nice ride." His name was at the tip of my tongue, but I couldn't recall the name of the guy who'd spoken. He was the guy Nikki had some kind of fling with at the moment. Bella said a quiet thank you and charged forward as if she was looking for a rock to hide under.

How dare that man indirectly insult our truck and embarrass my sister on her first day! Wasn't there some kind of rule where she got the week off?

"You bet your labia it is!" I screamed in his ear before running after my sister, not forgetting to throw a boastful smirk over my shoulder at him, of course. However, I still didn't feel content. I probably wasn't loud enough to break his ear drum.

Note to self; breed Bella's little cactus.

I'd have an army of baby… cactuses? What's the plural form of cactus? Cactuses doesn't roll of the tongue like it should. I've been thinking about tongues and labia too much for one day. Oh no, I've distracted myself yet again.

Maybe it's cacti. Or just cactus. My life is so complicated.

"You're Isabell Swan, the new girl." That one Asian guy said while pointing a finger at Bella. I call him that one Asian guy because he's pretty much the only Asian guy at our school. As he introduced himself to my sister, I couldn't help but wonder if he had 20/20 vision. Oh gee, that's racist. Good thing I keep these things to myself. I'd get beaten up for all the things that came into my mind.

As soon as he started talking about a feature in the newspaper, Bella began to stammer and was heading into some kind of nervous breakdown so I felt it was my duty to get her away. Why didn't he ever offer me a feature in the newspaper? Did he have some kind of grudge against because I stereotyped Asians? He couldn't know. I've never said it out loud. It was like he could read my mind or something. Must be all that meditation they do. Well, since it didn't seem possible for me to get that feature now, I decided to use this opportunity to test one of my theories.

"Is that sushi?" I pointed towards the opposite hallway and as expected, his head snapped in that direction. I took the chance to pull Bella away and head into the crowd.

"Where? I don't see it." I heard him calling out, still looking in the other direction.

Definitely not 20/20 vision. I thought so. Poor guy, I'm sure he was the brightest pupil in all his advanced placement classes. Maybe I'd send him some origami to make him feel better. Or fortune cookies from that one Chinese place. I'll order Chinese for dinner tonight.

I felt myself nodding and realized I'd been lost in thought. I dropped Bella off at the GYM for her PE class then headed to math, which was uneventful and made my head hurt.

At lunch, I looked for Bella and was surprised to find her sitting with the Asian kid and his friends.

I looked and saw Nikki and Cameron with Chris's group. I figured it'd be more awkward to sit with the Asian guy I'd blown off earlier since I didn't know anyone from that table.

I was right and it was even less awkward than I expected at our table. Chris even tried to talk to me but I couldn't hear a thing because I was busy watching my sister. Of course, all the guys were flirting with her. Despite her low self-esteem, Bella was pretty and it was noticeable. Nikki's boy, who I have now deemed unworthy of ever knowing his name, had the nerve to come up and kiss Bella. I gave him a dirty look when he got to the table.

I watched the two girls at Bella's table closely. The mousey brown-haired on was obviously envious of the attention Bella was receiving.

Then the Cullens' came in. Bella, who seemed to have some kind of magnetic force with trouble, took immediate interest. Not good, not good at all.

Jacob had warned me about the Cullens'. They seemed to fit the description of 'The Cold Ones' from the Quileute legends.

Bella would be the idiot to fall for a vampire.

Mike insisted on walking Bella to the next class, which we happened to have together. Biology.

I don't mean to brag, well maybe a little, but I've always been exceptional in science, especially Biology. I advanced during middle school so now I was two years ahead in this subject. Since I barely passed even when I put as much effort as I could in other subjects, this was something I was particularly proud of.

And it's just pretty impressive on its own, if I do say so myself.

Just to make everything perfect, Edward Cullen was also taking Biology. Could this week get any better?!

Of course, it could. The last empty seat happened to be right next to Cullen. Amazing!

For some odd reason, Edward looked at her the way I looked at Koda's large poop before cleaning them up. It was the funniest thing I'd seen all day and was just the picker-upper I needed.

Bella even sniffed herself to check if she really stank!

Oh my gosh.

HAHAHAHA.

I forced myself to look away the whole class in order to prevent myself from bursting in laughter. I almost laughed out loud just replaying the moment in my mind. I coughed to stifle my giggles.

Edward left a second before the bell rang causing me to explode. Bella gave me a mean look and stormed after Edward. I trotted merrily behind.

When I arrived at the office I'd seen them enter, Edward was already leaving. Bella came out moments later, scowling just as Edward had. I wanted to tell her it made her bunny rabbit teeth stand out even more but she seemed to be going through a tough time so I held my tongue.

Okay, so how do I make Bella feel better? She was feeling bad because he was acting like she stank right?

Singing "Girl, you stank, wash ya ass" probably wouldn't help. I love that song though.

I decided on the simple move of smelling her armpit just to double check that she didn't have B.O.

She didn't. In fact, she smelled like Secret Deodorant. Powder Fresh scent, to be exact.

"What the hell Gabz?" she shook herself free from my grasp and crossed her arms.

"You don't stink! I was trying to make you feel better! And now I know! You used my deodorant! How could you?" What if I caught some kind of armpit disease? I could never leave the house again. I might have permanently stinky pits! Oh, woe is me!

"Gabz, stop being so dramatic, I'll buy you a new one. " I'd still sue her if I did get some kind of deodorant-sharing life-long sickness. She'd have to pay all my medical bills.

"Fine. But you have to buy a new one too. People already say we look the same. If we smelled the same, they wouldn't be able to tell us apart. I'm keeping my own identity, thank you very much." With that, Bella rolled her eyes at me and walked off, not bothering to respond.

I considered it a win on my part.

My celebration was cut short when I realized I was late for Spanish. Senorita Valencia, the poor soul was too kind to me. Even after I'd only taken her class so I could sing my favorite Shakira songs correctly.

Don't judge me. Those song make me feel better about my huge hips and chunky legs. Yeah, these hips don't lie baby. You bet your socks I'm an honest individual.

Yet I'm still a horrible person. Late for Senorita's class. On Fiesta Friday! Oh, the shame.

With that thought, I ran, err, briskly walked to class. Running in the hallways is much too dangerous. And I got to keep my cool you know.

"Buenas dias, Senorita Valencia." I tried my best to speak in Spanish.

"Hola, Gabriella. Sentarse en tu silla, por favor." I sat in my seat like I was told. I made it a point to do well in her class, by participating in all activitidades (That's activities in Spanish. I am so smart.) and raising my hand for every question.

Someone threw a rolled-up paper ball at my head. Several time.

Funny, the trashcan is on the other side of the room.

I'd have to teach them proper throwing and aim techniques sometime.

I don't know if I've mentioned it but I'm an amazing pitcher. Not to be boastful or anything.

I'm not too good at batting. By not good, I mean I've never hit a baseball in my life.

I blame the traumatic experience of being hit in the face on my first try. I tend to close my eyes as soon as they throw the ball. Sometime I duck too. Those baseballs really hurt you know.

When school was over, Bella and I met our dad at his favorite restaurant. The waitress recognized Bella.

"You are so gorgeous." she smiled. I cleared my throat to get her attention in hopes she'd compliment me as well.

"Here's a napkin honey. There's a nasty bug going' 'round. Several boys on the reserve are getting high fevers." she handed me a napkin then proceeded to talk to Bella again.

I'll admit it hurt my feelings. I was used to being the center of attention 'round here. Even the guy who dressed up as Buttcrack Santa Claus every Christmas came to talk to Bella. And to think I'd been first in line to take pictures with him every year. Stabbed me right in the heart, that did.

The waitress even forgot my favorite cobbler, which was apple cinnamon, and brought me a berry one like Bella's. How could they just forget me like that?

At least dad seemed happy. I'd just have to accept things then, as long as it cheered it him up.

When the food came, all three of us reached for the ketchup at once. With one look from my dad, I knew to let Bella have at it first. It was fine with me until I realized she'd finished it all. The waitress seemed busy so I forced myself to eat my dry, flavorless burger.

Edward was gone several days. Bella searched for him every day.

Today he was present in Biology and was rather nice to Bella.

Did he have some kind of mood disorder?

Never mind though, today there was a challenge. The first partner to finish labeling which steps of mitosis were seen in the slide would win a golden onion.

I don't know what I'd do with it but I had to win for my reputation's sake. Gabriella Rose "Gabz" swan, science extraordinaire.

"I'll look. You write." I nodded to the guy next to me. Why were all the desks in girl-boy pairs? Was the teacher trying to play match-maker? Did he enjoy watching us flirt? What if he was some kind of pedophile?

Whatever he was, his tactics were working on my sister in the desk behind me. I could hear them chatting about the weather which Bella, as I already hated. And why would she move to the wettest place in continental U.S., Edward asked. Ha. It may seem like a good question to anyone else but I knew why. To get away from her stepfather. To give her mom freedom. To get me to calm down. To make my dad happy.

"Anaphase." Bella nodded and wrote it down. I then realized I hadn't done anything and they were already done with the second.

Curse my easily distracted mind!

I should get checked for ADD, or ADHD. Whichever fit. Speaking of which, I needed to focus on the task at hand.

The first slide was Prophase.

I wouldn't admit it at the time but I barely glanced at the second. I'd heard Bella say 'Anaphase'.

I had to win that onion. My reputation depended on it. Science, the one thing I was really good at.

Just as I had identified the 7th slide, I saw Edward going towards the teacher's desk to submit their paper.

I saw the whole scene in slow motion, as if my soul had escaped my body and was watching in agony. Even so, it still felt the emotional pain given by the situation. Starting from him walking to the table, my mouth dropping open in shock. I rubbed my eyes to make sure I wasn't seeing things. When I was sure it was real, I attempted to scream but it seems my voice box wouldn't work. My fist crashed down onto the table causing Edward's head to whip around in my direction.

I hated him with a passion at that moment. Why had he suddenly become so good at Biology. He hadn't even been in the top 5 in this class the whole year. For some reason, he was suddenly interested? Was it because of Bella? Or was it Bella who had betrayed me?

I couldn't blame her. She didn't know that this was my subject. And she was my sister, maybe it ran in the family to be good at this subject. Besides if I had focused from the start I would've finished way before them. I couldn't be mad at my sister. It would kill my dad if we fought.

I'd be cursed by all the entities for hating my own sweet sister who had never purposefully harmed me.

I decided that there was only one solution. I'd have to take chemistry again. I don't think I'd be able to take another loss in this subject. I couldn't be sure that this would not happened again. I'd switch out and take Biology next year, after Bella was done. That way no one's feelings would be hurt.

"You finish it." I pushed the microscope to the guy next to me then put my head down.

After he finished, which took forever might I add, I double checked just in case. I couldn't handle the shame if I'd gotten anything less than a perfect score. I even added key identifying factors in each stage in order to compensate for finishing in second.

When the paper was submitted I made a bee line for the registrar's office, a determined look on my face.

"I'm sorry dear but it's much too late to switch classes now. Either way, all other sciences are full, you're the second student to request. I don't understand why you or Cullen would want to switch though. You both are passing. You especially. You have the highest grade in the class." the registrar's word hit me like a hot frying pan. I rushed out without another word and left the school.

I walked home and crashed onto my bed. When I was finished grieving, I remembered to text Bella.

'Bells, don't wait up for me. I walked home. I have the runs. Take care.'

I don't remember falling asleep after that but somehow, I did.

I'm gone for one afternoon and Bella nearly gets herself killed by a van. That stupid guy Nikki dated. She wasn't anymore, thank God.

Today we had a field trip for Biology, in which I had taken up my rightful place as First in the class. Bella following closely behind in 2nd.

I'd worked hard, studying more than usual.

While getting on the bus, I spotted Cameron.

"Cameron? You have this class?" I stopped her before she could get on the bus.

"No, I just wanted to get a day off from school." she said matter-of-factly. I caught her eyes motioning to the right. I followed and noticed the guy she'd been after.

"Ah. I see." I winked. Well, at least I attempted to wink.

"What's wrong with your face girl? Did you just twitch?" she asked, slapping my face light. Hurry Gabz! Think of something!

"Ugh, the way the light is reflecting off the yellow paint of the school bus hurts my eyes." Nice save.

"Alright then." Cameron shrugged and pulled me on to the bus and into the three-person seat in which the guy she fancied was sitting in.

Fancied? Honestly, I needed to stop watching Harry Potter movies. I'll never get the accent down anyway.

I decided to text Jacob so I wouldn't be a cock block on the ride to our destination. He invited me to come to La Push with them. I was set on going but for conversation's sake I said I'd think about it.

'Come on Gabz. Quit playing, I know you're coming. Bring Bella if you'd like. Or if you don't like, bring her anyways. (; They say the waves are going to be good. Not that you can swim. But they're nice to look at either way. Why don't you bring binoculars so you can watch whales or something.'?

Well. I guess it's settled then.

'Ass.' I replied.

'See ya then. (; ' If we didn't go way back, I'd end the friendship immediately. He didn't even try to go along with what I was saying. I stared awkwardly at the roof of the bus the rest of the ride.

After looking at the plants and compost, I finally cornered Cameron alone. What's-his-face must've gone to pee or something. I pushed the mental image out of my head. He probably had a small winky. I'd know sooner or later, at the rate Cameron was going.

"Jake invited me to La Push. Wanna come? Jared will probably be there." I wiggled my eyebrows. I assume I did so correctly because I got the desired effect of Cameron rolling her eyes and walking away while shaking her head.

I followed eagerly behind.

"I am not marrying someone because of their last name Gabz! And how many time do I have to say that Cameron Cameron sounds stupid." Cameron said after much pestering.

"I'm not deaf, Cameron. How can you convince that it doesn't sound awesome when I can hear it with my own ears! Psh. You're crazy."

Jared and Cameron Cameron.

They could start a family tradition of naming all their kids Cameron. Cameron is a unisex name so the name Cameron Cameron would be passed along many generations to come. I couldn't wait to tell her grandchildren how I'd thought of it. Me, ol' Granny Cameron Cameron's good friend they'd say.

"Gabz, why are you smiling at the ceiling? Are you daydreaming about my off spring again? Really?"

I shifted my gaze to her, slowly narrowing my eyes. The smile on my face deepening. I paused a moment before speaking to make things more dramatic.

"You love me."

It was finally the day to go to La Push. I wore a wet suit even though I knew I wouldn't be getting in the water with Bella and her friends, who were going to the same place as we were. What a cowinkydink.

"Will you quit bouncing?" The sound of Cameron's tone and scoffing afterwards, only made me more excited.

The faster I got them together, the faster my dreams would become reality. She'd thank me someday, I know it.

When we got there, Jacob came while the others were zipping up their wet suits. Bella was telling Angela to take control or something. I felt the need to butt in.

"V-Power!" I held up my fingers in a peace sign which also looks like a V. The first letter of a certain organ only found in females.

Thank you, Sex Ed.,

And my good pals, Nikki and Cameron, for being so open with me and sharing all the dirty details of every relationship.

Jacob noticed Bella before me. Some best friend. No matter. if he ever got mad at me, I'd remember this very moment and hold it against him until he forgave me for whatever I'd done wrong.

He noticed me after taking a piece of licorice from Bella, by simply patting my leg.

Yes, Jacob keep digging your own grave. Mwahaha.

He frowned at me when he noticed my conniving smile.

"You're planning something."

I didn't bother to respond other than a quick chuckle.

When Bella and gang brought up Edward Cullen, Jake turned his full attention to them. Ignoring me, yet again. They even started walking down the beach without me. I pulled Cameron along and chased after them. Cameron started doing leaps and turns on the beach.

I tried to do the same, Jete en tourmant. Let's just say it wasn't as graceful as Cameron's and I ended up on the floor. I picked myself up quickly looking around to see only Cameron had noticed. She snorted then continued. I decided to do some nice front flips.

Thank the Lord for my muscular man-arms.

When the world stop spinning around, I noticed three boys jumping off a cliff.

"Sam Uley and his gang." Jacob muttered while steering Bella away.

To my delight, Jared Cameron was part of said gang. However, when they dove I deemed into the deep waters, the idea of approaching them impossible and dragged Cameron with me back to Jacob.

"So, we're having a little get-together later on. Maybe you'd like to come Bella." Jacob said awkwardly, running a hand through his beautiful hair. I wonder if my hair is that nice from behind. I'll have to ask what he does to it then get someone to picture me from behind.

I then spotted Angela. Victim targeted.

"Uh, I'm feeling pretty tired Jake." Did she just call him Jake? Didn't they just see each other for the second time? The grin on Jacob's face told me I wasn't hearing things.

"Okay, well maybe another time?" Jake, I mean Jacob, or Jay Jay like I used to call him, asked with a hopeful look in his eyes.

"Uh, sure." Bella nodded. She seemed to have other things on her mind. Her loss.

Wait.

Jay Jay, as I would now call him regardless to who was listening, had forgotten to invite me. I waited a few moments with an expecting face. He gave me another what-is-wrong-with-you face. I'm adding that to the list of things I'd use against him someday, by the way.

I wasn't going to wait any longer.

"Cameron and I would love to go! See ya there Jay Jay." I patted him on the pack, satisfied with the wide-eyed look on his face. I linked my arm with Cameron, something I would never have done if I had not been so proud of what had just happened.

I looked back at Jacob with a triumphant smirk, not daring to attempt to wink again.

That night was filled with the usual drums and dances of the tribe. I taught Cameron some basic steps and soon enough she'd caught on and was dancing around almost as wildly as me.

That is, until I bumped into someone and fell on the ground.

What a freaking giant.

That someone didn't even bother to help me up.

When I looked up I wasn't surprised to see it was Paul Lahote, the biggest asshole I've ever met. He bullied me through-out elementary. He called me 'the White Lady', to remind me about how I was one of the few lighter skinned students on the Rez. Thankfully, only him and some of his friends used the nickname so I let it go. When he realized I wasn't affected by this he turned his bullying up a notch. He pushed me in the sand, put bugs in my hair, kicked my block towers, stepped on my kite after it fell. You know stuff like that.

That's why I was shocked to find him staring at me, his mouth slightly ajar but somehow smiling at the same time.

It was downright creepy, now that I think about it.

But at the moment it hadn't been. My head even turned sideways like a puppy before I smiled at him shyly. Like a proper lady or something.

My unusual inner ranting and turmoil seemed to stop for a moment. The people around were blurred in my vision and it was like someone had turned down the volume of their voice. The only thing clear to me was the 6-foot russet-skinned man in front of me, who was still gaping at me like a fish out of water. For some reason I didn't understand at the time, the world seemed complete and a better place to live in.

The moment was interrupted and I came back into reality when Sam lifted me up.

"Oh, hey Samuel." I grinned like the love-sick fool I was.

"I told you not to call me that, Gabriella." his jaw clenching as he put me down.

"Don't call me Gabriella then, Samuel." I drew out his name slowly to emphasize.

He took a deep breath then turned his attention to Paul, who had a confused expression on his face. He was still staring at me. It was weird but I liked it.

Wait, I like it? What's happening to me? When did everyone stop dancing?

The elders had knowing smiles on their faces, except my Grandfather. His expression was unreadable. But then again, that's how his face is all the time. Emily and some of the others had the same knowing smiles I mentioned earlier.

"Oh my." I thought aloud. This was weird and for some reason, I had a bad feeling about it all now that I'd come to my senses.

Cameron looked confused.

"Gabe Swan, daughter of Charlie Swan and Ojinjintka Ateara, we shall speak tomorrow. Please take yourself and your friend home before it gets too late." Billy Black patted me on the back before nodding at Jake to take us home.

"Okay, what the hell just happened Gabz?" Cameron demanded, "Wasn't that the boy who bullied you throughout your childhood? Why you guys looking' like you've gone and fell in love? What about Chris? You do know he quit slanging' to try and get back with you, don't you?".

I gulped. I had no idea what had happened.

I also felt someone glaring at me for the first time. I had no idea you could feel stuff like that you know. Was this some kind of new sense? I wonder how many people glared at me in one day. Would this further distract me from the things I'd have to do? I'd go crazy.

I looked back and saw Paul, looking very angry. Sam and Jared were holding him back.

It was so scary I forgot to make some genius remark about the beautifully named children Jared and Cameron would someday give me.

PAUL'S POV.

I was able to snap out of my daze when Sam helped my imprint up. I felt a growl rumble in my chest when he held her hand but was silenced by a quick glance from Sam.

I couldn't believe it.

Of all the people, it had to be the cute midget.

I mean just midget! Damn imprint, making me think things.

There is nothing cute about her small size and sexy hips.

Fuck!

Okay, I guess the curvy part isn't so bad. It's not tall and slender like I thought I liked, but it definitely turned me on.

Shit, I don't even know if this is really me or the imprint speaking.

Billy Black informed her to meet at his place tomorrow. He gave a stern look to me and I know he wanted me to do the same. Just as I was about to give him a dirty look back, I noticed my imprint was leaving with her friend. Her friend was asking what was going on. Her friend mentioned a Chris, who had quit selling drugs and wanted to get back with my imprint. I felt myself start to shake then Sam's hand in my shoulder warning me not to phase here. It took all the control I had to stop myself from phasing until I had jogged into the forest. As I ran in wolf form, I was able to calm myself.

What the hell did I care if she had an ex-boyfriend or whatever the hell this Chris guy was to her.

I have never in my life desired to imprint on someone.

Not even with Rachel. It's not a secret that the only thing that made this relationship work is the distance. I couldn't stand to be around someone for too long.

Except Gabby.

Wait. No!

Where did I get Gabby from? I don't give a shit about her.

I'd fight this imprinting crap.

I'd tell Billy tomorrow at their house. In front of Gabby.

Gabe.

Gabz.

That annoying white lady.

Yeah.

Fuck, Rachel is going to kill me.

GABZ POV

Staring at my phone and the unfamiliar number on the screen I debated on whether I should open it.

Who could it be? I suddenly remembered the movie 'When A Stranger Calls'. What if my life was some kind of sequel titled 'When A Stranger Texts'? I hate scary movies. I'd only watched it because Jacob had bought the ticket before I could stop him. By the time I had realized it, the ticket was already printing.

I couldn't just waste money like that. Not to mention the paper used to make that ticket. Yeah, I'm a closet tree hugger. Judge me.

Just as I'd expected I'd developed a phobia of unknown numbers.

Then again it could also be the lotto in which I'd bought a ticket to last week. My curiosity got the better of me.

'Be at Billy's tomorrow at 7am' it read. I replied asking who it was, just to make sure it wasn't a serial killer.

Because a serial killer would totally reply 'Oh it's me the guy from the first movie. I'll be killing you at Billy's tomorrow so don't be late!'.

Nice one Gabz.

I'd be lying if I told you I didn't at least half-expect it though since whoever it was took so long to reply. I took a long shower and got back to an empty inbox.

'Paul' finally came the answer. I almost wished I hadn't asked.

If this serial killer was any good at stalking, he would know what happened with Paul earlier and that Billy had said to go to his place the following day.

I did the only logical thing I could think of.

I panicked, sneaking around the house with a baseball bat (Oh, the irony.). I snuck around like I'd seen spies do in movie, making sure to lock the doors and windows.

"Uhm, Gabz. May we know exactly what you're up to?" I looked over to the table where my dad and Bella were eating Chinese food.

Perfect, now I had five fortune cookies for that Asian kid.

Now, I didn't want to cause panic in my dad and sister because that would only make things worse.

"Nothing." I narrowed my eyes while scooting away sideways then throwing the bat down the hallway.

I sat down and ate my orange chicken rice topping but didn't have much of an appetite because I realized by locking all the doors and windows, I may have locked the serial killer inside our home.

The piece of chicken I'd been eating fell out of my mouth as I gasped. Which made me choke on a piece of rice. How could something so small almost kill me.

Maybe that's what the serial killer had wanted. The thing I least I expected to harm me, food, would kill me. That's why he texted me so that I would panic and lock all entrances only to realize he might already be inside. Thus, making me gasp and choke on rice.

It was like karma for me stereotyping that Asian kid in an almost racist fashion.

Maybe he was the serial killer. That would explain his motive. But not why he tried to kill the girl in the first movie, 'When A Stranger Calls', which I still don't understand the ending of.

Whatever his motive may be, sorry Mr. Serial Killer, you're good but not good enough.

My dad's a cop and he knows the Heimlich maneuver.

So, HA.

The texter was really Paul. I asked Jacob for his number and it matched the one that texted. Although I'm smart enough to think that the serial killer may have used Paul's phone, apparently, I'm not smart enough to stop me from going to Billy's house at 7 am sharp. I brought the bat though and the pepper spray I stole from Bella.

Billy was waiting for me on the front porch. Paul, or the serial killer, was not yet there.

It really ground my gears.

Who tells someone to be somewhere at a certain time SHARP and then is late?

You don't see me going around telling my teachers they better be on time for class tomorrow.

Paul arrived at about 7:35am and I was already in a pissy mood by then. I was secretly relieved that he hadn't been killed by the serial killer but I'd deny it if anyone asked.

"Oh gee, Mr. 7 am SHARP has arrived." I rolled my eyes dramatically to achieve the effect I wanted.

If he had seemed happy to see me before I'd opened my big fat bunny-toothed pie hole, he didn't now. He ignored me then went directly inside. I followed and sat opposite him on the dining table. Billy sat on the side chair on my right and Paul's left.

"I'm just going to get straight to the point." Billy said after a long awkward moment. "Paul, I know you know about imprinting but Gabe, do you remember?"

Of course, I remembered those crazy legends. They'd been telling me them my whole life.

I nodded slowly. I don't see how this had anything to do with me. Was this supposed to cheer me up? Did he invite me here for story-telling?

He didn't even offer me coffee and muffins.

"Gabe, it is vital that you do not share this information with anyone. The supposed legends are true." Okay, real funny. I saw where he was going. I'll play along.

"Which ones, Bill?" I made myself look fascinated.

"All of them Gabe. We tell them so that those involved, like yourself and Paul, won't be so shocked when the time comes."

I stayed silent waiting for him to laugh and say 'April Fool's'. It was still March but everyone expected to be pranked on April First so it would make sense to prank early on.

I'd have to try it on someone.

"Gabe?" Billy waved his hand in front of me, still not laughing.

Okay this is getting old. Okay Gabz, poker face. He's testing you.

"Gabe. Say something. I'm trying to explain. Let me say it simply. Paul is a shape-shifter. Paul has imprinted on you. You have the choice to accept it or not though. But whatever you choose, you must keep this a secret. I know you know the stories. We shape-shifters are here to protect the people. However, people do not always see clearly when they are scared. So, it is better not to tell."

I didn't know how to react. I guess it made sense. Billy wasn't laughing either so this joke was either really well played out, or he was serious. I'd never heard Billy make a joke like this before.

So, if this was all true. How do I react? I wasn't sure about Paul. He'd always been such an ass to me. Not just as kids but even when we got older. I looked at the tall man in front of me.

He'd grown bigger and taller, just like legends described shape-shifters after phasing.

He was handsome. But he'd always been. He'd always known it. Everyone knew about his playboy reputation. Rachel knew but chose to ignore it while she was in college. Oh my, what about Rachel? She's not fond of me but I'm not that kind of girl to steal someone's man.

Hypothetically speaking, if this was all true and not some joke.

How would I be sure he wouldn't just mess with me?

Could you do that to your imprint?

"My choice?" was all I managed to say. Paul slammed his hand on the table and got up. He threw his shirt on the floor before running outside and...?

Turning into an over-sized wolf?

Don't see that every day.

Damnit Gabz, we have a situation here. Get yourself together!

So, the shape-shifter thing was true. And judging from last night, the whole weird staring thing probably meant the imprint thing was true.

PAUL POV

That's all she could say?

Her choice?

So, she didn't want me.

Ouch.

I'd never felt like this before. Like someone had ripped my heart out and stomped all over.

Then shot it and set it on fire just to make sure it was all gone.

She wanted out? Fine then! I don't want this bullshit either.

Paul, where are you? I heard Jared's voice. He must've been on patrol and heard my thoughts. He knew about the imprint too.

Fuck off. I'll finish patrols, just get out of my head. I wasn't aware wolves could roll their eyes. But I did.

Paul. She just asked if she had a choice. She just found out the legends are true. Give the imprint a chance. Fate doesn't just choose any random girl. She'll make you better. Besides, you can't blame her. You've been bullying the girl since elementary. Just put in the effort to show you can be nice to her. She'll change her mind. Come on, it's Gabz. Everyone else on the reserve loves Gabz. Sure, she's a little weird... annoying, short... She's borderline crazy, the way she's always so deep in thought but it's... cute, I guess. We all learned to love her the way she is. All but you. Just try it man.

Breathe in. Breathe out. Deeper. Okay, calming down.

Paul. Honestly. Are you calming yourself down just to get me out of your head? Well I guess the girl's already getting you to calm down somehow. It's a good start.

Quiet. Now where am I going to find new shorts.

GABZ POV

Billy didn't react to Paul's outburst.

"Yes, dear. You have a choice." Billy said getting up to get some coffee.

Finally!

Just as Billy's back was turned, a butt-naked Paul ran through and into Rachel's room.

I've never seen a man naked before but his man parts looked a lot bigger than the pictures in our text books. I'd have to tell Nikki and Cam later. I'd officially be initiated into their dirty-minded duo.

Wait a sec. He was naked.

And went in Rachel's room.

He knows exactly where it is.

So, he's been there before.

Perhaps many times?

As I put two and two together, I couldn't help but feel a little pang of jealousy and an even stronger feeling of her.

I guess imprinting is exaggerated in the stories.

I wanted to storm out but that would be rude.

And I'd be eyeing the chocolate chip muffin Billy had put on a plate for me. My weakness.

After several delicious muffins, and Paul not having left Rachel's room yet, I was full and decided to pay someone a visit. A certain someone who would know all about imprinting and secretly loved me like the little sister he'd never had.

I bid farewell to Billy, promising for the umpteenth time that I wouldn't tell anyone. Even though Paul had made my decision for me.

I don't care if it's Rachel or Jacob's sister for that matter. I don't share my stuff. She doesn't look clean anyways. I might catch a disease or something.

Alas, after a very tiring walk, I'd reached my destination.

"Ohhhh Samuellllll!" I called into my favorite almost-big-brother-figure's house.

Emily came out, smiling.

"I've been expecting you, Gabe. Come inside and help me in the kitchen, will you?" I did as told. I was a little nervous that she'd been expecting me. It meant she had a lot of questions for me. But I'd decided on the walk over that I didn't want anything to do with Paul. I'd just get hurt.

"So, how was the talk with Billy and Paul?". I knew it. I felt myself sighing. It hurt to think about it but maybe talking to Emily would help. That is why I came over after all, to talk to someone. It wasn't Samuel but Emily's just as great. I kind of wanted Samuel's opinion though, seeing as he could relate more with Paul's situation.

"Not so good Em. He stormed off when I asked if I had a choice. Turned into a wolf and the whole shebang." For some reason, I left out that he'd come back naked and went to Rachel.

"It must've hurt him then Hun. If he was angry enough to phase afterward." she looked up at me from the meat she'd been slicing. I grabbed the vegetables she had out and began to slice as well.

Hurt? I had just asked a question. I just found out the stories I'd been told my whole life were actually true. What the hell did he expect? That ass. Any feeling I had to protect his image went away.

"I dunno. He went into Rachel's room butt-naked shortly after." I officially hated him. He knew I was there. Why would he do that? Was I not good enough to be his imprint or something? He couldn't wait until I had left?

"Slow down, dear. You'll cut yourself." I had started pretending the cucumber I'd been slicing was his man parts, in order to vent my anger. I slowed down since I was frightening Emily. "There. Just calm down. Now, Paul and Rachel have been dating on and off for a while. Before he imprinted sweetie. It's not going to just go away overnight. You know that Sam was with Leah before he imprinted on me. He chose me though." She winked at me at the last part.

Why couldn't I wink like that? Could Rachel wink like that?

Okay Gabz, calm yourself. Stop comparing yourself. So, what if he might like Rachel better, it didn't mean I wasn't likeable. Chris was still there right? He was changing.

But Samuel left Leah for Emily. Would Paul do that to Rachel?

"Did Samuel imprint on you too?" I asked. Emily nodded. I didn't want to ask more about Leah. I felt it might be a touchy subject. So was the scar on her face, which I wondered now if Samuel had done it.

"But did he know you before he imprinted? Why did Paul imprint on me now? Why not when we were younger?" The questions came cascading out of my mouth. All my insecurities.

"No, he imprinted when we met. But Sam had already phased by the time we met, so I guess the situation's a little different hon. But you'll never know if you don't try. You could always wait for him to leave Rachel. I'm sure he will eventually."

But eventually wasn't soon enough for me.

I wanted it now.