Disclaimer: I do not own Twilight, Stephanie Meyer does!
Edward's POV
My situation was becoming more tense; more dire by the day, Keyria coming to the house was making things worse. She didn't fall for my charm as Bella had; that ham-brained Emmett had gotten to her first. How she found anything about him appealing is beyond me. You would have thought someone suave and good-looking would have turned her head; not someone with more muscle than brains and an average appearance. That little partnership was going to get in my way, I could feel it.
I knew I had to have Bella and my time was starting to run out. I was no longer certain of how long I had to take her now, not with Keryia here. I would have simply eliminated her, but that option was no longer available. If I had known when she was arriving, I could have staged a little accident. But no matter, I was sure I could still think of something. Who knows, maybe the oaf Emmett would let too much slip and we would have to kill her ourselves.
My beautiful Alice joined me shortly before we entered the house, though not soon enough for my liking. We barely had time to exchange a loving glance before entering through the kitchen, stopping as soon as Keyria's words hit our ears.
Not on the menu? Did she know what she was talking about? Her tone was that of a light joke, but why on earth would she make a joke like that?
Alice gave me a puzzled stare, apparently as confused by this as I was. I fixed a smile on my face and leaned against the counter, maybe I could still work some charm on her.
"What do you mean, Keyria? Why wouldn't we have anything Emmett would like? Esme got just about everything from the store, so there should be something he might want." I looked at her, noticing the little laugh as I finished speaking. Had I said something humorous without realizing it?
"Um, you're vampires. And since you don't eat humans, I'm kinda off limits." Keyria didn't even skip a beat, shutting the fridge as she looked at both of us.
"What? You know? But how did you find out? We've been trying to keep it looking normal around here!" Alice's voice was raised, her angelic face wide with shock.
Keyria leaned against the fridge, bringing her brows close. I was curious as to how she found out myself, since it was made clear she could not know until Carlisle and Esme decided she was ready. And even I knew she wouldn't be ready to know that this soon.
"They told me. Said I needed to know because of my gift. I had to keep myself safe from the more unsavory vamps out there." Keyria shrugged her shoulders a bit, acting like she was just talking about discovering she had found something she thought was lost.
"What do you mean, they told you? They said you couldn't know until you were ready! And why weren't WE told about this?" I was near shouting as I stood straight.
How could they? They stress the importance of keeping our lives from her, yet they tell her everything after only a few days! And what about this so called gift? We should have been here when they told her; we should have been informed before the fact as well. I could hear the others becoming aware of the situation, yet not all of the thoughts were clear. A mixture of "No, stay calm and wait, Edward!" wafted through my mind. My hand went to the bridge of my nose, this was sure to become a grueling night.
Keyria's POV
I didn't know what Edward's problem was, but he really needed to calm down. I'm sure Carlisle and Esme would have asked them to both be here today if it had been important, but they were just telling me what they really were. No big deal.
"Jeeze, Edward. Don't get all upset; they just told me you guys were vampires. It's not that big of a deal." I took a step back, the glare Edward was giving me was not making me feel too nice. A cold, hard body thudded against my back, no doubt that was Emmett. He always has the perfect timing to show up RIGHT behind me; it was like he was psychic or something.
"Bro, dude, you need to chill out. It's no big deal. We just thought she should know, that's all." Emmett grinned his goofy grin, one arm draping around my shoulders.
I was actually glad he was there, I didn't feel so threatened with him behind me.
"No big deal? How is this not a big deal? This was not supposed to happen this way! We should have been TOLD that you were telling her! And she has a gift? How is that not something we should all be here for?" Alice's sharp, high-pitched voice screamed through the air.
Carlisle, Emse and Jasper appeared in the kitchen; Jasper wrapping his arms around Alice and bending his head close to hers.
"Calm down, darlin'. It was intimidatin' enough with just us four here, everyone bein' around would have scared her even more." Jasper was trying to speak low and smooth, hoping to use his voice to soothe her nerves no doubt.
Alice scrunched her face and pried herself free, pushing herself away from Jasper.
"Don't do that to me! You know I HATE that! Just leave me alone!" She screamed in his face and blurred out the door, Jasper following close behind her.
What was the big deal about this? It's not like they said I was joining them in vampirism or anything. Damn! They were overreacting worse than a mama bear losing her cubs!
Edward looked at Carlisle, his face hard as he spoke.
"Why were we not informed of this? Since when do things like this happen without input from everyone in the family? Carlisle, what is going on?" Edward spoke harshly, his hands becoming fists at his side.
"Edward, we had to tell Keyria the truth. The gift she possesses is powerful and unique, something that would become very bad for everyone should the wrong vampires know. We didn't think it would be necessary to ruin your plans today. That is why you were not told before hand. Jasper was needed for his experience and his ability; she could have taken the news much differently. Esme and I were going to tell Alice and yourself tonight, but it seems fate had other plans for informing you. There is no need to be so upset about it, though I do with you could have found out differently." Carlisle was quite calm, his body relaxed as he spoke.
Edward still didn't back off, one fist slamming into the counter sending shards of granite flying.
"I will not! I should have been told! I should have a say in whether we told her or not! MY human found out on her own! Why couldn't Keyria? What makes her any better than Bella?" He sneered at me, his voice going eerily quiet toward the end.
I cuddled myself closer to Emmett, his icy body feeling surprisingly comforting.
"Edward! I will not have you acting like this in front of the women! Keyria is more important to this family than you realize, but we will not discuss it with you acting like this." Carlise had stepped forward, his voice deeper and more harsh than I had heard before.
Edward looked at me, moving closer as his eyes bored into mine.
"Do you think your teddy bear will keep you safe? He's the strongest of us all, so it's only a matter of time. The mixture of his bruteness and your scent will send him over the edge, and he won't even mean to. He may not even bite you, maybe he'll just nudge you a little too hard. I bet they didn't tell you your options now that you know, did they?" He had come within a foot of us, Emmett's arm was pulling me back behind him.
"Edward, don't. It's under control, do not say another word." Esme spoke up this time, her voice was a slight shock in the middle of all the men.
"So you didn't tell her? Isn't that nice? Seems they're keeping you in the dark too, Little Ria." Edward gave me a smile, the creep factor was tipping in the twenties.
"Let me enlighten you now, since everyone is so keen on doing things when the time is right. Now that you know what we are, you have two choices. One, you become a vampire like us. Two, you die. Though if I have the right feeling about you, you aren't going to want to live forever. So why wait? Why not make your choice now?" He inched closer and Emmett finally got me behind him.
"You will not touch my mate, bro. You know you can't beat me and I WILL kill you if you try." Emmett growled at him, Edward's eyes growing wide as he took a step back.
"Wait! Stop! You can't touch her!" Alice burst through the door, her face wide in shock as she looked around the room.
"I can't see much of Keyria's future, but everything I have seen all leads to her changing. I haven't seen anything without it, so you can't touch her." Alice's voice had quieted, becoming a meek whisper.
She had seen me as a vampire? I hadn't even thought of it since this afternoon, I didn't really think there was any hurry.
"Edward, why don't you go hunt and calm down? When you come back, if Keyria is still awake, we will talk about this. We all need to be calm and rational about this, not jumping to conclusions and scaring her half to death." Esme smiled and stepped forward, patting Edward on the arm as he left silently.
Jasper looked at me, his face a quiet apology to which I simply nodded. Wrapping an arm around Alice, they left the room as well. I looked at Carlisle, then to Esme, wondering just what was going to happen now.
"Emmett, now that you know Keyria is safe, why don't you and I go have a little talk? There is something that has come to my attention very recently that needs discussed. Esme will stay here with Keyria; I'm sure they have a few things to talk about as well." Carlisle smiled, his face becoming soft and fatherly once again.
Emmett turned and looked at me and I gave him a nod, sending him on his way to talk with his dad. I looked at Esme when they left, unsure of what to say given what had just happened. I moved to one of the bar stools, sliding myself up tp the damaged counter.
"I'm sorry about this, Aunt Esme. I didn't know they were here, and I really didn't know they would go off like that. I didn't mean to cause so much trouble, I really didn't. I'm so sorry." I bent my head over the counter, I couldn't believe I had caused so much trouble in such a short time.
"It's alright, sweetheart. They both tend to overreact quite a but; something we have all been trying to help them with. It isn't your fault, so stop thinking it is. Now, would you like some tea? I do have something a little lighter I would like to speak with you about." Esme opened a cabinet and smiled softly, pointing at the various unopened boxes of tea.
At least she wasn't mad at me, I had that much going for me anyway. I nodded a little and pointed to the middle shelf.
"Some of the jasmine would be nice, I think. Thank you, Aunt Esme." I gave her a feeble smile, still feeling bad about the issues I had caused.
I folded my arms on the counter, tipping my head and watched as Esme filled the kettle for hte tea. A change in the subject couldn't hurt, maybe get my mind off how bad I felt about everything.
"So, what was the lighter topic you wanted to talk about? I think we could use something less intense right now." I gave a small laugh, my shoulders jiggling a little.
"I wanted to ask you how you felt about Emmett. We've all noticed that the two of you have gotten pretty close already, and it's peaked a bit of an interest." Esme moved to the island counter across from me, leaning in with bright eyes.
How did I feel about Emmett? I felt a lot of things about him, some of which I surely shouldn't have been feeling. But where to start? I couldn't really tell Esme everything, could I?
"Well, um. I mean, he seems really nice, and he makes me feel pretty safe when he's around. Of course, that could have something to do with his size. I don't know, I just feel better when he's close to me. He's a good guy, a good friend." I looked at her and felt a slight blush rise on my cheeks.
A part of me wanted to tell her everything; tell her that I kinda wanted him more than as just a friend. But even my own mind was giving me a hard time about going that far that fast.
Esme smiled at me, a soft twinkle in those endless topaz eyes.
"A good friend, huh? That is a good start, but I get the feeling there is more you aren't telling me. Maybe more that you aren't even telling yourself. Be honest with me, sweetie. I will not judge you or think any differently of you if you're feelings are stronger than what you say. I remember what it was like to have a crush, you know. Even if it was many, many years ago." She flashed me a knowing smile, the glittering in her eyes growing as she seemed to think back to those times.
Could I really tell her? Could I admit these feelings to myself? I didn't even know if I could put it into words, much less make it make sense. I took a deep breath though, she clearly already knew I felt more strongly for Emmett than I let on. After all, what did I really have to lose?
"Ok. Um, I don't really know where to start, or even how to really say it. It was from the very beginning, though. The first time I saw him I just felt relaxed. It's like I'm drawn to him, you know? I don't really feel comfortable if he's too far away. And even before you told me what you were, I thought his icy touch was comforting. I've been trying to keep things straight in my mind, but I'm fighting with myself. I like him, a lot; but I just can't see the sense in getting tangled up in a relationship with everything else going on. I mean, we don't even really know each other; I've only been here a few days. But at the same time, it feels like the only thing to do. Does this all sound crazy to you?" I knew my face was beet red; I had just blundered on and let my mouth take over.
Esme laughed a little, moving to the stove as she removed the kettle and let the tea steep.
"It isn't crazy, sweetheart. There's a little thing about vampires that I am sure you haven't been told yet. Well, it would be more like two parts, actually. Vampires can dazzle humans; kind of like making them feel attracted but without any real connection. Then you have mates; and those are just about true to their name. Mates are true partners, always being what the other partner needs when they need it. Do you think you might know why I'm telling you this?" She poured a cup of tea for me, smiling as she placed it in front of me with honey, sugar and a spoon.
I added a little sugar and sipped carefully, thinking for a minute before I gave my reply.
"I might, but I'm hoping that I'm wrong. Do you think that Emmett's...dazzling me? Is that why I feel so good around him?" My brows were together, my chest pressing into the counter as I leaned forward.
Was Emmett doing some vampy thing on me? Is that the only reason I felt so wonderful when he was around? I didn't want to believe it, but I tried my best to brace myself for Esme's confirmation of my thoughts.
"I don't think so. Do you remember what he said right after Edward's little fit? When Emmett told him that he would not touch his mate?" Esme looked at me, her brows raised and a little smile on her lips.
I nodded slowly, trying to add everything up in my mind. Was she saying what I thought she was saying?
"Well, vampires do not just say things like that. We don't call someone our mate unless they are. Do you understand now?" Her smile had widened and I felt mine go slack.
Wait, mates? Like, together forever, only person for you, mate?
"Mates? Me and Emmett? Are you sure? I mean, can you be sure? Couldn't it just be some kind of strong attraction of something? I don't even know if I'm ready for something like this with everything else going on." My voice was quivering a little as I whispered, my shoulders slumping forward a bit.
How could this be happening? I hadn't even made it through my first week here and I found out my Aunt and Uncle were vampires; along with their adopted kids. I had a gift that kept them from sparkling in the sunlight; and now I'm supposed to be Emmett's mate. What in the heckled hens was going on in my life?
"Oh, I am fairly sure. Finding your mate is an instant thing, you know it almost immediately. Maybe not that they are your mate, but you do know that no one else makes you feel the way they do. If it was simply a strong attraction, the comfort level and safe feeling wouldn't come so easily. And don't think of it as happening at the wrong time; this could be something you can go to when everything else seems to be too much. Don't let your mind overtake your heart and your gut; just go with what you feel. You will know when it's too much, trust me. Now, I am going to let you think about this for just a while, let it sink all the way in. I'm sure you will find Emmett when you are ready, he's always been there so far." Esme stood and walked around the counter, giving me a light kiss as she did so.
"Thanks, Aunt Esme. I'll finish my tea and kinda go from there I guess." I gave her a smile, leaning into her slightly before she left.
So this was why I felt so... perfect around Emmett? I was his mate. I guess there could have been worse things that might have happened. I wondered what would happen now, especially with the new development.
Emmett's POV
I didn't know what I did, but since Carlisle wanted to talk to me in private I was pretty sure it wasn't too good. He led us into his study, settling in one of the supple leather chairs. I sat next to him, trying to keep my nerves down. Edward had already gotten under my skin with how he talked to Ria, I didn't want more bad news because I handled it wrong.
"So, uh, what's up?" My voice was a little jagged and I coughed a bit, shifting in my chair.
"Well, Emmett, what's up is what you said earlier. Do you remember?" Carlisle looked at me, his face a little more serious than I would have liked.
"Uh, kinda. Edward got all snarky and I told him he wouldn't touch Ria. Was I wrong to say that?" I was actually a little confused. I wanted to pummel ol Eddie boy, but I held myself back and told him to pretty much back off. I thought I had done pretty good, actually.
"No, you were not wrong at all. However, that is not what I was referring to. You did not just say 'Ria'; you called her your mate." Carlisle had a little smile now, and he leaned toward me a little.
My mate? Did I really do that? I like Ria, like, a lot; but I hadn't thought about being her mate.
"I didn't even think, Carlisle. I was getting pi... really mad and I just told him. Do you think we are?" I looked at him, my hands twisted together as I thought about it.
"Well, you both seem extremely relaxed and comfortable around each other. A connection like that is not common after such a short time, even for our kind. You are very protective of her already; there when she needs you even if you are not in the situation. I think you are, Emmett; you would not have said she was your mate if she wasn't." He patted my shoulder, looking at me closely while I ran through all this in my head.
I did really like her, she was like my own little slice of peace I looked forward to everyday. Actually, now that I was thinking about it, I don't know how I had missed it. I looked up at Carlisle and smiled.
"I get it now. I totally believe you. Now that I've actually ran it through my brain, it makes sense. I should have known it when I saw her the first time, though. It was like hitting a wall, a beautiful brick wall." I knew the grin on my face was huge, I just felt so much better actually realizing why I wanted her close all the time.
"Good. I am very happy for you Emmett, but you will have to be very careful. She is human, after all. Until she decides to make the change, you will have to take things very slow with her. Maybe even leave more.. intimate situations until after." He nodded at me, his eyes locked on mine.
Seriously? Carlisle was giving me 'the talk'? I had to shake my head a little at that one. I knew I would have to be careful, there was no way I would ever risk hurting her.
"Don't worry Carlisle. I'll make sure everything stays PG-13 until she's really mine; after that I can't promise anything though." I laughed a little, the look of surprise on Carlisle's face was just classic.
"Alright, that sounds like a good plan. Just make sure you do not get too worked up. If you do, go for a hunt or something as soon as you can. Now that we've gotten that out of the way, I am going to find Esme and go out for a while. Make sure Keyria gets some sleep tonight, I know she might be uneasy with everything that's happened." He stood and stepped toward the door, stopping to look back at me quickly.
"I will take care of her, Carlisle. I promise you that. Have fun while you're out, we'll see you in the morning." I nodded at him, being serious about this. He nodded back and vanished, leaving me to my thoughts.
It wasn't often that I took things seriously, but Keyria was one of them. She was much too precious to let anything happen to her, and if she was happy, so was I.
Keyria's POV
I was finally making my way upstairs, everything making sense and fitting in my mind. I was Emmett's mate, and there was no use trying to avoid it. I already liked him, so this was just kind of the green light I needed. I wouldn't have to hide how I felt anymore, and hopefully he would feel the same.
I made my way down the hall, sounds of the video game getting louder the closer I got. I walked in the room and shut the door, now was not the time to be disturbed. I stepped in front of the t.v. and smiled down at Emmett, his eyes quickly looking into mine as he leaned forward slightly.
"Ria! What are you doing? I had a seven kill streak going, girl." He smiled at me though, setting the controller next to him.
I just had to go with it, not let my brain have enough time to stop me. I bit my lip and stepped closer, bringing myself mere inches from his face.
"I'm doing something I haven't done in a while. Something I should have already done." I whispered breathlessly, my face inching closer to his until my lips were barely brushing his.
I leaned in and planted my lips against his gently, letting them linger the space of a breath before I pulled away. I felt the blush on my cheeks, Emmett's eyes wide as his hands moved to caress my face gently.
He didn't say anything, his head bent toward me as his lips claimed mine. It wasn't the light kiss I had given him; it was more needy and intense. His arms snaked down and around my lower back, pulling me closer to his cold, hard body.
I felt his tongue flick over my bottom lip, parting them instantly for him. Our tongues danced and played with each other, my legs straddling him on the couch. His hands tangled in my hair, tugging a little as he pressed me closer. I let my arms and hands explore his chest and back, the feel of his icy cold muscles sent goosebumps across my skin.
My body rubbed against his, one steely hand gripping my hip as a low growl rose from his throat. I couldn't keep the moan from my mouth, the sound muffled between our lips. He pulled he tighter, his fingers digging into my skin as he bucked beneath me. My nails grazed down his shoulders, my heart thumping wildly in my chest.
With one hand wrapped in my hair, he tugged my mouth from his slowly.
"My god, Ria," he breathed, his forehead pressed against mine.
"That was hot... But we have to slow down. We can't go too far, not yet honey. I can't take the chance of hurting you." He was whispering, his large hands cradling my face as he looked into my eyes.
I bit my lip and nodded slowly, even thought I didn't want to stop.
"Ok. We won't go too far. Yet. But we can still kiss.. and stuff though, right?" I looked at him, his smile warming my body even more than it already was.
He simply nodded, his lips softly brushing against mine again.
"I will kiss you as much as you want it." I barely heard his words before his mouth was on mine once again. The controller was pushed to the floor as he shifted us on the couch, wrapping his arms around me as we melted together in passionate kisses.
A/N: Here's a little action for you guys, I hope you enjoy! Please review so I can thank you for reading!