Disclaimer: I do not own Twilight! Stephanie Meyer does!
A/N: Alright, put down the pitchforks and torches.. Here is an update at last! Warning though, it contains an orange.. I say orange because it's only a little citrusy, not quite a whole lemon.. Hope you enjoy!
Chapter 10
Keyria POV
I wasn't ready for all this, and I wasn't sure if I wanted to find out exactly why my last name was the same as the one in the history of Forks. But it was there, right in front of my face, so I couldn't really ignore it. Esme Platt. That's what the paper said. The new doctor in Forks and his wife, Esme Platt Cullen. There was only one person I knew named Esme Cullen, and that was my aunt. Esme looked at her feet then back at me, a look of uncertainty on her beautiful face.
"Maybe we can move to the side porch. That way we can see and hear if any of the others come back. You must understand Keyria; most of our nest simply would not accept some things about our family." She looked at me with her brows raised slightly, moving as soon as I started nodding.
We walked around the house to the deck, sitting on either side of the patio table.
"Ask your questions, my dear girl. I will tell you everything I know." She gave me a soft smile, her hand reaching for the pen and notepad she had pulled from her little garden tote.
"Well, when we were doing our research, I found an old article in a newspaper. A paper from when Forks was first founded. It was about the town finally getting a doctor, with his wife as a nurse. A Dr. Carlisle Cullen and Esme Platt Cullen. There was a picture as well, with the both of you. There was no mistaking it either, I know it was you. What I would like to know is why your last name was Platt; and how mine is now." I looked at her closely, ready to catch anything in her actions that would lead to her lying.
I was pretty sure I already knew what the deal was, but I was having a hard time believing it.
She looked at me for a moment, like she was looking into the past.
"You are the only living descendent of myself and my husband, Carlisle David Cullen. We had originally planned to tell you about our family this summer, and we had also thought that your parents would be here to verify the information. You are our great-granddaughter, Keyria, and you look exactly like I did as a human; except for your eyes. You have David's eyes, Carlisle's human eyes. I am sorry that we did not tell you sooner, but there are certain, um, difficulties that we were not expecting. One being the early arrival of yourself; the way that Edward and Alice have reacted to your being here; and we most certainly had no idea that you might have the gift that you do! You are one-eighth vampire by blood. I will tell you that neither Carlisle nor I had any idea that I could become pregnant, or carry the baby to term. It is commonly thought that vampires cannot reproduce, except by turning a human. David was an adult by the age of seven in human years. When we moved here the first time, he was in college, his third year of medical school. He met your grandmother at the end of WWII. They had a son, Michael. Michael was in graduate school, for the second time, when he met your mother. You were born three years later. You are the only girl ever born into our family, so for us to not know of your gift was not deliberate. We just had no idea that you could be gifted. And, since you had never been around vampires until now, no one else knew it either." She explained without pause; probably not wanting to drag it out any longer than needed.
I breathed deeply, looking at the table in a slight shock. No, not at the table, through the table. I was spaced out, my mind not quite registering everything I'd just heard yet. I was a Platt, Esme was a Platt. She was a Platt when she had her son; Carlisle's son, David. David was my grandfather; his son Michael was my father. It was my father's name, and I'd heard him and mom talk about grandpa David. I think I even saw him once, when I was very, very little.
Man, my head was hurting. I was still trying to make sense of all this. Esme stayed quiet, a small smile on her lips as she waited for me to process everything.
"So you and Carlisle really are my family. Not just an Aunt and Uncle I've never heard of before; but honest to god family. And I'm part vampire." I paused, making statements that sounded questioning.
"Are you joking with me? Is this just some twisted, messed up story you guys made up just to fuck with my head? You really expect me to believe this shit, don't you?" I was near standing, uncaring of Esme's shocked expression.
She cleared her throat and set her face, folding her hands in her lap.
"Firstly, my dear Keyria, this is no joke. No one is trying to mess with your head at all. Carlisle and I truly are your great-grandparents, and you are part vampire by blood. We have records of everything, notorized and filed away outside of the house. We would be more than happy to show them to you, but only when it's just the three of us. Secondly," and she rose to her feet, fingertips pressing into the table;
"I would greatly appreciate it if you would mind your language, please. I realize that you are upset and have just received rather unbelievable news, but that is no reason to curse." She wasn't mean or even harsh, but through her quiet voice I was able to tell my outburst had hurt her.
I bowed my head and whispered softly, picking at my fingers.
"I'm sorry. I really thought it was just a crazy story to maybe run me off or something. I know not everyone's happy I mated to Emmett." I didn't look at her, I just felt too horrible to do that.
"Why on earth would we want to be rid of you? We feared the worst when your parents vanished, thinking of what would happen to you should anyone object to you coming here. As for you and Emmett becoming mates; I can guarantee you that Carlisle and myself are more than happy with it. As for anyone else not liking it, it is not their decision. As long as both you and Emmett are happy, then everything else can be overlooked." She stepped around the table, that warm smile making me believe she was telling me the truth.
She placed a hand on my shoulder and I finally brought my eyes to hers.
"So, do I call you guys mamaw and papaw now?" I couldn't help myself, the seriousness of the conversation was just getting under my skin.
I was glad to hear her laugh, even better when she shook her head. It would have been pretty damn strange to call them that; they barely looked old enough to have kids supposedly in their teens!
"No, sweetheart. Just keep calling us Aunt and Uncle for now. As I said, not everyone in the house knows and they would not be happy about it either. We have to wait until the right time to inform the rest of the family, just so we can be sure you are safe." She hugged me to her side, moving slowly back into the house.
"Alright, but I'm still not quite sure I believe it. Maybe after I see the papers and stuff." I looked at her and she nodded, not the least bit nervous.
That told me she was being truthful, and I felt even better for being here now.
Emmett POV
Ho-lee shit! I almost didn't believe what I heard; and if it hadn't been Esme saying it I wouldn't have. So Ria wasn't just an orphaned human kid; she was their granddaughter! Well, great-granddaughter. I didn't know Esme's baby lived, much less that Carlisle had been the father. I knew he saved her from dying, but I had always thought it was from some kind of disease of something.
I couldn't believe that my sweet, strange Ria was really related to them. Like, legit, legal, truly related. It wasn't just paperwork and stories for her, it was all real. Surreal, if you ask me. This was totally something out of a sci-fi flick, or a fantasy book or something. It was like, super cool but at the same time kinda super weird. But hey, she was my girl no matter what. I just really had to make sure she didn't get hurt now. Esme would tear me apart with a smile on her face if Ria got hurt and I could've stopped it. Just that thought sent shivers down my spine.
I had to focus though; Esme said that not everyone would like the family ties here, and I had a pretty damn good idea who that would be myself. Ol Eddie boy would be furious if he knew. Guy was already having issues over her living with us; I'd hate to see his reaction finding out she was actually their family. I'd have o make sure I only had stupid shit in my head when he's home. Don't need him finding out cause he can't keep himself outta everyone's head.
That was my favorite weakness of his, though. The fact that he could only read what you were actively thinking; not the stuff that's deeper. I fucked with him a lot like that, and I honestly think he doesn't even bother with me half the time anymore. Still though, had to be extra careful or my Ria.
I know she'll talk to me about though, I can just feel it. I'll have to make sure we go somewhere else to do it though, and I'd have to tell her why. I mean, I know he can't read her much anyway; but I don't want one of the stray thoughts he does catch being about that. I'd kill him just on principle.
I backed out to the main menu on Black Ops, Ria was coming upstairs and I wanted to be ready for her. My smile faded a little when she came in and shut the door, she looked deep in thought about the recent news.
"Alright Mac, do your best. I seriously need to shoot something... repeatedly." She sounded tired and she just kinda plopped down beside me.
I knew playing the game wouldn't get her mind off things, but I had an idea on something that might.
"Forget the game, babe. Come here." I tossed the controller to the floor and pulled her to me, my lips brushing against her hair.
I ran my fingertips along the bottom of her shirt, easing it up her back slowly. She stiffened a little and looked up at me.
"Mac, I... I'm not sure if um... I don't think that's..." I shook my head and hugged her close.
"Don't worry, Ria. I'm not going to do anything like that. Just lay down on your belly, okay? And relax." I shifted from under her, pulling her shirt over her head before she laid down.
I took a deep breath and savored her scent; this was going to be hard as hell. My fingers brushed along her lower spine, a smile on my lips as I took in those cute little dimples on her back. I straddled her carefully, keeping myself hovered slightly above her. Moving my hands slowly up her back, I groaned a little as she shivered against me. I rubbed her shoulders and her back, getting more aroused with every moan she made. She rolled beneath me, her back now on the couch. Her breasts rose and fell in shuddering breaths; goosebumps raising on that warm, creamy soft skin. She bit her lip a little, her eyes locking on mine. "Emmett?" Her voice was a soft whisper, a blush on her cheeks.
"Yeah, baby?" I leaned closer, my chest lightly pressing against hers.
"The rubbing was good, but not distracting enough. Um, maybe we should just play some games after all." She lowered her eyes, her fingers playing along my arms.
Not distracting enough, huh? Well, I could certainly do better than that. I gave her a smirk before I claimed her lips, my tongue snaking between them smoothly. She stiffened at first, melting beneath me within seconds. I shifted my weight, lifting her legs around my waist. I slid my arms beneath her, holding her to my body as I ravaged her mouth.
She was so warm and soft, I swear I could completely lose myself in this single moment. Apparently she was losing herself too. Her legs tightened around me, her fingers tugging at my hair as she writhed. I felt her grinding her hips into me, my dick rubbing against her hot body. I pulled my mouth from hers, my face nuzzling against her neck.
"Ria... we really shouldn't..." I breathed against her.
She shook her head, pulling my face back to hers.
"No...please..." She pleaded, kissing me again.
I groaned again, pressing myself harder into her. I couldn't give her exactly what she wanted, but by damn I was gonna give her a good taste of what she'd get later! My hands moved around her; one tangling in her hair while the other eased to her left breast. Her soft skin felt like silk in my hand, my fingers tracing around the edge of her bra. She moaned in my mouth, pressing herself harder against me.
I tugged on her bra, tearing it from her body easily. I left her lips and trailed down her neck. She arched against me when my tongue flicked over her nipple, her hands clenching my hair. I kissed and sucked, her chest quivering with every touch. I moved down her body, licking and kissing over her belly. She was squirming, her hands both pulling and pushing my shoulders. I looked up at her, that hot flush across her face turned me on even more.
"Do you want me to stop, Ria?" I smiled at her, still looking at her as I bent my head to kiss her waist.
"No...ye.. no.. I don't know. I mean, I do but I don't..." She laughed a little, her hips bumping against my shoulders.
"I won't go all the way baby, I just wanna give you a little bit. But if you want me to stop, I will." I propped myself up on my elbows, making sure she knew I would.
She shook her head, her legs tightening against my sides.
"No, I don't want you to stop. It feels too good for that. I'm just not sure I'm ready for anything else yet." She pulled herself up, leaning down to put kisses over my head.
Smirking, I pushed her back again.
"Alright, babe. I ain't gonna do anything you don't want me to, so just enjoy it." I gave her a slight wink and shifted down the couch again.
I ran my hands down her body, brushing over her nipples on the way. I smiled seeing those rosy tips forming tight little buds. Instant reaction was the best. I knew I would be straining and aching for release myself; but this was not about me. She wanted a distraction, so I was gonna give it to her.
My lips trailed along her tender skin, skimming the waistband of her jeans. That was a major thing I liked about her; she wasn't a fashion freak. I smiled as I looked at her, my fingers tugging slowly at the button as I waited for any sign that she wanted me to stop. She bit her lip and raised her hips a little, letting me slide her jeans from her toned and incredibly sexy legs. She bent her knees, almost like she was trying to hide her body from me now.
I stood from the couch then knelt beside her, running my hand along her arm softly.
"Keyria. You don't have to hide your body from me. You're sexy and in really good shape. I love every inch of your body with clothes on, so I'm gonna love it without 'em." I smiled and kissed her deeply.
I stood again and stripped myself quickly, just leaving my boxer-briefs on. I loved the way her eyes got wide when she looked at me; my arousal increasing from just that. Her eyes stopped at my crotch, widening even more with a little hint of fright. She cleared her throat and looked at me, a bright blush across her cheeks.
"I didn't know they could be that big. It's gonna hurt really bad when we actually do it, isn't it?" She was trying to smile, but I could tell it concerned her.
I nodded slightly, leaning closer to her.
"Yes it will, baby. But I'm really not even that big; I'm about average really." I chuckled a little, hoping it would relax her a bit.
Her blush only deepened though, spreading down her neck as her eyes shot to mine.
"Average!? That's average? It doesn't even look like it'd be able to fit!" She was sitting up now, a little smile on her face that I was guessing came from a bit of shock.
Her eyes flickered back over me, biting her bottom lip. I would definitely say I was a little confused; surely she'd experimented a little already. After all, she was 18 and kids usually were already pretty active in these areas in this day and age. I rocked back on my heels a little and cocked my head to the side.
"Ria, are you a virgin or something?" I was honestly expecting her to say no, so I was pretty shocked when she nodded her head.
"Yeah. I mean, I've kissed guys before. But I've never done anything else until you. You're uh, the first guy I've ever um, seen, too." Her eyes drifted down my body before she looked away.
The anger I had felt when she said she's kissed other guys was still there, just not as bad since I knew I would be her first for everything else.
"Well, I can say that I'm glad you are. But I did think that you'd already messed around before. I mean, you are eighteen; and you kinda react to me like to know what you're doing." I smiled at her when her face went a little shocked.
I leaned up over her, kissing along her shoulder and neck.
"I believe you, baby. Just a little surprised, that's all." I whispered against her ear, smiling when I felt her pulse quicken and her body shiver.
"I want you to be completely ready for me when I take you, so I will wait as long as I need to." I could feel her holding her breath as I spoke, the slightest moan from her throat making ME shiver.
"What if I'm still human when I'm ready for you? Won't that be hard for you?" She had twisted herself around, her legs around my waist as she looped her arms around me.
She nuzzled against my neck for a second, then brought her eyes to mine. There was concern in her eyes, but no fear.
"Baby, I won't lie to you. It would be hard, but I would change you right then if I had to. I will never hurt you, and I won't try to rush into something you're not ready for yet." I kissed her lightly, shifting myself lower against her body.
"Thank you, Emmett. I know I want you to be my first, I'm just not sure when." She smiled at me, her beautiful blue eyes sparkling.
"Oh I'll be your first whenever you want me. But I'm going to be your last and only too." I chuckled a little, her chiming laugh mixing with my own deep roll.
"Good, cause I expect the same. Well, not being your first, obviously. But I'm your last and only now too, no matter what happens." Her tone had gotten a little serious, her voice s softer whisper.
"Nothing is going to happen baby. We'll be together for eternity, even if you don't change." I kissed her deeply when she smiled at me, almost feeling the care she had for me.
But care didn't really feel like the right word. The feeling was more intense; deeper than just care.
She was pressing against me as her tongue swirled around mine. Apparently our conversation was over! I smiled in the kiss, my hands moving under that wonderful ass. Her mouth left mine and she trailed kisses over my jaw, stopping right below my right ear. I swear I almost came when she licked me there; that hot, wet tongue flicking over that sensitive spot. Her lips parted and I melted against her as she sucked softly; tensing quickly when I felt the sharp sting of a bite.
"Ria!..." I rasped out her name, falling silent when she lightly shook her head.
She wasn't letting me go, that was being made very clear! Her head tipped to the side, the tender flesh of her neck exposed to me. I fought the urge to bite her back, knowing this was not the time to change her. She pulled on my arms, nodding her head barely.
Did she know she was doing this? Was she asking me to change her or something? I felt a little relief mixed with emptiness when I felt her mouth leave my neck.
"Do it, Emmett. Feed from me. Leave your mark." She had whispered, but there was a commanding tone in her voice.
I honestly didn't think twice, especially when her teeth slid right back into her bite on my neck. I groaned out a rumbling growl, breathing in her euphoric scent before I clamped my teeth into her soft skin.
Ecstasy exploded through my body as her blood flowed across my tongue, a moan vibrating my neck as she ground her hips against me. She tasted SO GOOD! My mind reeled, her taste reminded me of home in the summer when I was human; the picnics we would take up in the mountains of Tennessee. The taste of moms gingerbread cookies still in my mouth when I'd get a drink from the honeysuckle creek. The water was crisp and cool; sweetened because of the honeysuckle's that grew there. The juice and the flowers would fall in the water, making t sweet to the taste. That mixture, the cookies and the sweet water, was one of a kind. It was home to me.
Then there was that tang of summer crab-apples. That was more than enough proof that she WAS part vampire. I knew that tang was the venom in her body, and I really felt like I was drinking heaven.
Alice POV
Oh my god; this weekend has been like, totally crazy. And I just know that Edward and I are going to be found out; especially if he can't loosen up a little. And Bella! I can't believe she let Carlisle and Jasper keep us away! I would have sworn she'd object, but she let them control her like it was nothing! I seriously had to talk to that girl about what was right and what wasn't.
We finally got back to the house when Edward's face scrunched up and he bolted out of the car. I followed right behind him, confused at what could have possibly make him do that.
"Esme! Are you just going to sit there and let your son kill her!?" He was yelling, standing in front of Esme who looked... unbothered.
"Eddie, what..?" I started to ask what was going on, but stopped short when she stood up.
"Oh Edward, relax. Stop being such a prude, won't you? He isn't going to kill her. They're mates, and she's still human. She gave herself to him, asked him to do it even. It is what a mate will do if one is still human. She's perfectly fine; in fact, she is most likely enjoying herself right now." She finished her little speech and walked around him, heading into the living room.
I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Was Emmett drinking Keyria's blood right now? And she was supposedly doing it willingly? No... this was just too much.
"Are you kidding me, Esme? We only feed from animals for a reason! And you're letting him do that? You have to stop him! Before it's too late!" I moved to her side quickly, gently grabbing her arm.
"Oh please. He isn't going to hurt her, and he is not going to revert back to human hunting. If you do not believe me, ask them yourselves." She smiled at me and waved her hand behind her.
They were coming down the stairs, hand in hand like they hadn't done anything at all. Keyria's face was a little red, and she had a freshly sealed bite mark on her neck. Emmett was sporting a bite too, but it was extremely faint. I wondered for a moment how she even managed to break his marble-hard skin without losing her teeth; but I was brought back by a low growl from Edward.
"What were you thinking, Emmett? Did you lose control of yourself? Is that why you were drinking from her like a heathen?" Edward was getting in his face, and Emmett didn't like it.
Emmett moved Keyria behind him, his face hard as he spoke.
"I'm only telling you this once, Ed. I wasn't hurting her, and I wasn't going to. She asked me to do it. Well, told me to is more like it. But anyway, it's what she wanted so I gave it to her. I'm not gonna drink anyone else, so get your panties untwisted." He finished and then nuzzled Keyria against him.
"I still don't think it's right. It's too risky. You could snap and then we'd have to leave again. And you could kill her, not even meaning to." I tried to sound like I cared, but it might have come out just a little snarky.
Emmett growled at me and stepped forward, only to be stopped by Keyria. She patted his chest and smiled at him, turning toward me with a smile. I raised my brows, wondering how pathetic she was going to be in defending him.
"Look, I want it. Period. He isn't going to kill me. We've already talked about that and if it ever got out of hand, he'll change me right then. And is shouldn't make any difference to you what he does to me, so just ignore it if you don't like it." She finished with a smile, not quite as pathetic as I thought but still pretty bad.
No spunk. This girl would make a pushover as a vampire; probably too scared to even move.
"I just don't see how you could even think of letting him do that though. I mean, you know how risky that is, don't you?" My fake concern was almost enough to make me sick, but it was something I'd have to do.
She glared at me. Like, an honest-to-god, 'I'm going to kill you' glare. She turned to Esme and I waited for the explosion with a smile. At least it wasn't me.
"I'm so sorry, Aunt Esme, but this is long overdue from me." She tipped her head at Esme, then rounded back on me.
"Look, bitch. He doesn't scare me. You don't even scare me. I'm not afraid to die if I'm with him. Hell, I'd be happy to go if it happened while he was fucking my brains out! What happens between me and him is none of your damn business, so back the fuck off!" She was up in my face and I actually took a step back.
Keyria was kinda scary when she was mad. I didn't even think she was capable of being that scary; but when her eyes got darker, I knew she wasn't playing around. I looked at Esme, my face wide in shock. She was shaking her head, but she stepped forward and I felt a little better. She wouldn't let Keyria talk to me like that; I could count on that from Esme.
"Okay girls. Let's back off and calm down a little. We have some stuff we need to talk about today anyway, now that Alice and Edward are here. Let me call Carlisle and let him know; and everyone can just take a few minutes to chill before he gets here."
I couldn't believe it! Not even a harsh word at Keyria! I stepped forward to say something, but stopped when Esme looked at me. It was that look a mother would give her child when they got in trouble.
I huffed and blurred out of the room. Upstairs, I figured changing my outfit and fixing my make-up would help me relax a little. Prepping was almost as therapeutic as shopping. Not quite as good, but almost.
Jasper POV
"Carlisle, I know Esme spoke to you about some things that we needed to do; but I feel as though there are some things I should tell you myself." I pulled my eyes from Bella's window, looking at Carlisle like a man should.
He raised his brows slightly, cocking his head toward me while he kept watch on the door.
"What is it, Jasper? Have you thought of something else that needs to be done?" He seemed rather calm, so at least I wasn't projecting very much.
"Not exactly, Carlisle. More just something I feel you should hear from myself; not just from Esme." I kept my voice low as I moved silently to another tree.
He waited expectantly and I settled on a lower branch before continuing.
"Alice and I are not mates; and I also believe that Bella and Edward are not as well." It was a simple statement, but I felt much better saying it.
"Yes, Esme told me your thoughts on both matters, and I would have to agree where it concerns Alice and yourself. But would you care explaining why you feel Bella and Edward are not?" He didn't sound disbelieving, just more curious about my point of view in the matter.
"Their emotions. The emotional state between them is nothing like the other mates in the household share. There is a certain level of attraction and care, but there is no true concern. They do not have the secure and content feeling that I have noticed in any other mated pair. There is also a high level of annoyance, aggravation and at times anger from Bella. I could understand it occasionally, but they are almost a constant undercurrent in her." It was just about the same thing I had told Esme, but Carlisle seemed to be thinking about it deeply.
"Do you think it could be because she is still human? That would surely affect the emotions between them." I was shaking my head before he had even finished.
"No. It has nothing to do with Bella still being human. I thought the same thing at first; but since Keyria arrived and Emmett mated to her, I no longer see that as a valid reason. Keyria still has that constant safe and content feeling that I haven't felt from Bella." He thought about that for a moment and I felt a strong wave of almost guilt from him.
What in the world did Carlisle have to feel guilty about concerning this situation? His emotion changed slightly to apologetic as he looked at me.
"I am terribly sorry we didn't tell you sooner, and I sincerely hope you will understand that it was for safety reasons why we did not. Keyria is not human. Not completely anyway. She is one-eighth vampire, and the story of her existence and her place among us is one best told elsewhere. Do you think Keyria's vampire part has something to do with the difference in emotion?" At least now that feeling of guilt made more sense, and it also explained a few things regarding little miss Keyria.
I took a moment to really absorb what he told me, trying to adjust the views on emotion between Bella and Keyria again. I shook my head and rocked on my heels.
"No. When it comes to the mate bond, Keyria would be considered human. Her slight vampire instincts didn't effect the way she pulled to Emmett. There should still be no difference between the girls' emotional state when it comes to their mate. Plus, there's another emotion from Bella that I based most of my conclusion on. She's afraid of Edward, Carlisle." I spoke my last words in a whisper, looking straight in Carlisle's startled eyes through the darkness.
"Afraid of him? Are you sure about that emotion, Jasper? Mates are never fearful of each other. Ever. There is nothing a vampire can do to scare his or her mate, no matter what it may be." There was a tone of uncertainty and doubt lacing his words.
"I am sure, Carlisle. I live, breathe, and soak up emotions; so I know I am not wrong. Bella is not Edward's mate." I felt reassurance from him and smiled, knowing my next sliver of news an interesting little talk.
Carlisle looked at me for a few seconds, brows furrowed a little and I felt a small portion of confusion from him.
"Why exactly are you telling me all of this again? I was able to discern this information from reading Esme's journal. So forgive me if I seem rude, but unless there is something going on that wasn't in her writings, we need to cut this conversation off and focus on out watch." His words may have sounded rather harsh to someone else's hearing, but I knew from his emotions that he was simply wanting to ensure both of us were focused enough in case something happened.
But he needed to know; and I was fairly sure that Esme was already beginning to figure it out. I nodded once, and turned back to Bella's window.
"I'm telling you this again because I know why Edward isn't Bella's mate. They aren't mates because I am her true mate, not Edward." I smiled slightly as I waited for the feeling of shock from him; but when it didn't come, my face went slack.
"I know, Jasper." It was simple, like I had just pointed out the obvious or something.
He looked at me, with one of those expressions that a person makes when they've been asked a rather obvious question.
"Really, Jasper? I'm 404 years old including mu human years, and I study out kind for information about the species. I have seen many mated pairs, both before and after the process. Do you really think I would not have recognized the connection in someone in my own family? The only reason Keyria and Emmett's mating took me slightly by surprise is because it happened so quickly after they met. Are you going to tell her, assuming she doesn't already know?" Well, for someone who practically lives off emotion, I completely missed any clue that someone knew.
I was a little flabbergasted, actually' and at a slight loss for words.
"Um, no. I don't want to tell her, I want her to figure it out and realize it on her own. She has been forced to believe too many things already, simply based on what Alice and Edward have told her. I want her to find out and believe it for herself, in her own time. I couldn't bring myself to do that to her as well." I was shaking my head, leaning against the tree.
It felt pretty good not keeping it to myself; and I couldn't wait for the day she realized it as well.
Keyria POV
My god, I was really beginning to think that today would never end. I mean first it was the talk with Esme about me being their great-granddaughter; and the fact that Alice and Edward both would probably shit kittens if they found out the wrong way. Edward more so than Alice. Then of course there was that really intense, although slightly embarrassing, time with Emmett. I still can't really believe he had thought I wasn't a virgin. I know most girls my age would have lost it years ago, but I just never felt right even thinking about it. Well, until I met him anyway. Now it seems like that's all I ever think about.
And now we're all waiting for Carlisle to get home. Apparently there are some things that need discussed concerning Bella; some of which that might lead to a little bit of an uproar. Poor Eddie isn't going to be too happy.
I wasn't exactly sure why I had to be here, but Emmett just smiled and pulled me onto his lap with a kiss.
"I know why you have to be here, but why me? Couldn't I just go play some games or something?" I whispered, looking up at Emmett.
He just shook his head and grinned. Great; what did he know that I didn't?
"Sorry babe, but that's a no go. You need to be here too, just like everyone else." He wrapped his arms around me right as Carlisle walked in.
He didn't look too good honestly; rather tired if I hadn't known better. Carlisle still moved gracefully to Esme's side; his head resting neatly next to her for a moment of peace before he looked at the rest of us sitting there.
"It has come to my recent attention that there may be some concerns regarding both Bella and Keyria's safety and comfort within the family." He gazed pointedly at Edward then Alice; slowly looking to Emmett and myself last.
I wasn't exactly sure where my safety was a concern; Emmett stayed by my side practically every second of every day. But, if Carlisle was concerned, I wouldn't say anything against it.
"What do you mean by their safety? I haven't seen either of them being harmed or getting hurt badly. Why wouldn't they be safe if I haven't seen anything?" Alice's squeaky little voice prattled on quickly, her golden eyes locked on Carlisle.
"I am not completely sure where the threat is coming from, but Jasper has felt fear from both of the young ladies in the past few days. That is enough for me to become concerned about it." He dipped his head a little, obviously not wanting to look at anyone first and give the wrong impression of accusing that person.
Emmett nudged me a little in question and I shook my head just barely enough for him to feel it. Edward and Alice both looked guilty, their eyes shifting from one spot to another.
Edward finally brought himself to look at Carlisle, his brows drawn together in a scowl.
"And just where might Jasper be? Shouldn't he be present as well for this 'safety meeting'?" Yep, he even used air quotes.
Alice started looking around; apparently she hadn't even noticed her mate was missing. I smiled a little at the irony of it; a seer not noticing someone's missing. Classic.
"I sent him to keep an eye on the Swan residence while we had this discussion. He is better prepared to face anything on his own; plus, Esme and I can fill him in on the details later. Besides, Bella does not really interact much with Jasper, so this really wouldn't include him much." I could tell by the way he spoke that what he said probably wasn't entirely true.
Surprisingly, Edward didn't say anything. He actually looked like he agreed with Carlisle's comment; and that actually kind of scared me a little.
"But what about his control? You KNOW he hasn't been living like us for long. What if he snaps while he's watching her? Isn't THAT outside the realm of keeping her safe?" Alice really did look concerned; along with a little confused.
Now Esme looked concerned, her expression more motherly than ever.
"Alice, have you seen Jasper losing his control? If you have seen this happening then we would certainly need to bring him back right away. I would never leave one of my children on their own if I had any concerns for their control. So please, Alice; have you seen our Jasper losing his control?" Just the way she spoke made it clear to me that she honestly didn't have any doubts on Jasper's control.
Alice shook her head and looked down. Well, at least that wasn't surprising. Of course she hadn't seen anything, she just wanted to cause even more drama.
"Well then, I see no need to bring him home. Until there is truly a reason to be concerned, Jasper will be fine watching out for Bella." Esme's comment had an air of finality to it; and everyone simply nodded in reply.
Carlisle breathed deeply, straightening himself a little more on the loveseat he and Esme shared. This was it; the time was here for the actual conversation to take place.
"Things need to change in our family; on everyone's part. My first suggestion for this change does concern and involve Edward and Bella." Edward's eyes widened, then narrowed as he stared right at Carlisle.
"Why are you doing this? You know it isn't safe now that she knows; she HAS to be with me. There is no other way, Carlisle." I guess Edward must have heard what Carlisle was thinking before he could say anything about it.
"Now hold on, Edward. You only heard part of my plan. Yes, I do want Isabella and yourself to split up. Not because I wish to see either of you unhappy, but because I know the two of you are not truly mates. Both of you should be free to find your other halves; not tied together simply because of a secret you both carry with you. I intend to keep Bella as a part of this family, but only if she chooses to stay. My guess would be that she will continue interacting within our family though. She is already close with Alice and yourself, and she is getting closer to Keyria now as well. I hope you will explain this to Bella; make sure she knows that she is still a part of our family?" He raised his brows a little and Edward looked like he really had to think about the situation.
He nodded slowly, his head bowing slightly.
"I will do as you suggest, Carlisle. I only hope you are correct in believing that she will still want to be a part of this family." He sounded angry and his eyes were dark, but Carlisle only nodded.
"I know she will, son. But, she does need to interact with other in this family to be comfortable. So, from now on, SHE will decide on who she speaks to and spends her time with. Alice, no more constant hovering around her. You need to let her have time to herself." Carlisle spoke gently, but Alice looked truly hurt.
"But I need a girl to hang out with. I can only make-over myself so much, you know. But, I guess if I can't do my shopping trips and spa days with Bella all the time, I'll just have to find someone else then." She gave me a look this time; one that seemed hopeful.
I held back a laugh and shook my head.
"Sorry Alice. I don't really like shopping and spa's honestly kinda creep me out. Maybe one day, but I wouldn't count on it soon." It wasn't a total lie about the spa though; all those naked bodies running around couldn't possibly be sanitary.
Alice looked a little mad now, and I actually started feeling bad about turning her down again.
"Maybe you could talk to Mike Newton's girlfriend; you know, that preppy blonde girl? I heard she was actually kind of envious of you, and how pretty you are. I think she would be more than happy to do that girly stuff." I smiled weakly; feeling better when I saw her smile.
She didn't say anything else, but she seemed satisfied with the suggestion. Esme cleared her throat then, shifting herself more to the edge of the loveseat.
"There is something else that needs to be discussed, Alice. We know that you and Jasper are not mates as well. Now, I am sure you have a very good reason for telling us that you were; but that can be explained in time. For now though, I think it is important that the two of you separate. Just like Edward and Bella, both of you should be free to find your mates. You do not have to rush though; I know it will take a little time to build another room for you." Surprisingly, Alice hardly looked bothered at having to break up with Jasper.
"I just don't want him treated differently because we aren't together, though. I knew you wouldn't have accepted him so well if he hadn't been with me; that's why I told him we were mates. But, if he'll still be part of the family without me, I will tell him the truth and break up with him." She seemed so sure of herself that I figured most of it was something she had seen in a vision one time.
Esme shook her head quickly, one hand on Carlisle's knee to keep him from speaking.
"I am afraid you have that slightly backwards, Alice. It wasn't Jasper we had a hard time accepting; it was you. Had you come to us on your own, I am sorry to say that we most likely would have turned you away. It is a horrible thing to say, but it is the truth. Of course, not that we have gotten to know you, we are glad that you are here." Esme spoke sweetly, but even that didn't keep the anger from Alice's eyes.
She stood up quickly, tears shimmering in her eyes.
"That is NOT what I saw! I will dump Jasper, and I'll be happy for it too. Once you see his change without me, you'll know I was right! I couldn't stand his southern cowboy stuff anyway. And all those scars? Disgusting... Honestly, I'll be glad not having to see them anymore. Just don't say I didn't warn you." With a huff, she stormed away in another classic Alice tantrum.
I hadn't seen that reaction coming. Alice always clung to Jasper, like she couldn't stand being away from him. Maybe all this was a defense thing though, and inside she was really hurting. Who knows with that girl; she gets more complicated everyday.
I just hoped they didn't say something like that to me; I'd move out before I even thought of leaving Emmett. Edward shifted in his seat, an uncomfortable look on his face.
"How could you ignore a warning like that? Not to mention hurting someone you claim as a daughter?" He was glaring at Carlisle, his hands clenched tightly in fists.
"Edward, you heard what she said as did the rest of us. If she had truly cared for him, her concern would not have been over what would happen without her. We will listen to her warning and keep an eye on Jasper; but I do not believe he will become what she claims. If, by chance, he does we will take immediate action to resolving the issue. Now, you look as though you should hunt. Why don't you see if Alice needs to as well and go together? I will encourage you both to stay north of the house though. Carlisle and I picked up a scent that was not familiar to either of us. Vampire, but unknown; so stay clear for now." Esme smiled at Edward, who seemed to calm down as she spoke.
He stood slowly and looked at the ceiling, smiling slightly.
"Of course, Esme. Until we know who it is, we'll stay near the house. Please keep an eye on Jasper though; I really wouldn't want this particular vision of hers coming true." He spoke sincerely and nodded once, flashing out of the room.
Emmett shifted beneath me and I stood; only to be pulled back into his lap again.
"Where do you think you're going?" He nipped my ear as he whispered, a deep blush spreading over my cheeks.
"Um, I was gonna go to my room. I thought that was it for this meeting thingy." I frowned a little when he shook his head.
What exactly was left for discussion? It was just me and Emmett left; Jasper was gone and tweedledee and tweedledum were leaving.
"Just give it a minute, babe." His voice wasn't soft and playful now, and I was getting a little worried.
Carlisle tipped his head and shut his eyes; and after a few seconds, he smiled as he looked at us.
"We do have a few more things to talk about, now that Jasper's here." I was confused; Jasper was at Bella's... well, at her house...kinda.
"Don't worry, little miss. You'll get used to all this after a while. Be easier if you changed, but that's up to you of course." I nearly jumped off Emmett's lap.
Jasper's Texan drawl came from nowhere, his body following close behind. My eyes had to be huge by now, especially since he just kinda appeared in front of me.
"All in good time, Jasper. Now, are we clear to speak of other topics?" Carlisle nodded with Jasper, who sat in a black leather arm-chair that looked slightly cracked with age.
"Alright; since Keyria's change has already been brought up, that should be discussed first. Now, have you given it any thought yet, Keyria? There is no rush, but remember you have limited options; unfortunately." Carlisle looked at me sadly.
I knew why too. He was probably terrified I would want to remain human; which would end in him losing his great-granddaughter. I nodded my head, feeling rather strong despite Emmett's stronger self beneath me.
"I have, actually. I at least want to graduate first. After graduation though, I want to change; but I want Emmett to do it. I don't like the other option, so I'm changing." I smiled at them as the seemed to get a little happier.
Even Jasper looked relieved, and Emmett squeezed me.
"I am glad to hear that, Keyria. I mean, not that technically you'll die; but that you've decided to join us. Though I wouldn't have counted on the Volturi having an easy time had you chosen not to." Esme rose and hugged me, winking at me as Emmett shook his head.
"Nope. They wouldn't stand a chance if the came for my Ria." Emmett chuckled and kissed my cheek.
After a few seconds of approving sounds from everyone, Carlisle continued with our after-meeting meeting.
"Now that we've gotten that out in the open, we should discuss the recent changes made in the previous meeting. Edward and Bella are going to separate, but we still need to make Bella feel more than welcome in our home and our family. I do not expect Edward to comply completely, so I will ask that each of you keep close to Bella. Also, Esme and I need to meet her as well; in a family setting. Now, we generally play a family baseball game over spring break; weather permitting of course. With Keyria coming to us, out numbers are odd. Do you think Bella would join us? We could make a meal for the girls and finally meet Bella in a more casual manner. What do you think?" He looked at us, brows slightly raised.
"I know she wants to spend time with everyone, so I believe she would be acceptable to it." Jasper's gift with emotions would give him that knowledge, but I knew she was clumsy like me.
"I'll ask her to come. We're both clumsy, so I might convince her a little better." I knew it'd take some convincing too; I wasn't even too sure about playing.
"That would be great. A nice family activity, plus getting better acquainted with Bella." Esme was smiling.
"Indeed. Now, our second little piece of discussion involves both Keyria and Emmett." My eyes widened and I shrank into Emmett further.
"It isn't anything bad, but since Alice has agreed to break up with Jasper, we are in need of a room for her." I saw Jasper smile as Esme spoke, leaning back in his seat.
"We were wondering, since you are mates, if you would consider sharing a room now? We are not condoning anything, but it is bound to happen. However, if you do not want to move in with Emmett, we can make other arrangements." The question was shocking, but Carlisle didn't sound as though he expected it.
I wasn't even sure if I wanted to do that. We hadn't exactly gotten to that point yet, and I didn't want any pressure by sharing a room. Jasper grinned and leaned forward, looking right at me when he spoke.
"You don't have to worry, Key. Emmett might be head over heels for you, but he's never do anything that you didn't want." Emmett squeezed me tighter then, nuzzling into my neck.
"Never. I told you I wouldn't, babe. Sharing a room won't change it either. Besides, you spend most of your time in there anyway; all we'd have to add is the bed for when you're sleeping." For some reason, hearing him say it made it better.
I nodded and smiled a little.
"You're right, it wouldn't be much different. I guess we're rooming together then." I smiled at Emmett; his bright and joyful face getting kissed happily.
"Good then. You can move your things whenever you're ready. As for you, Jasper. Yes, Alice agreed to end the relationship with you. But, you shouldn't act as though you knew about it. Other that that, do as you will. She's expecting you to revert back to your old ways, as well. Along with greatly expressing her dislike of your basic self. Feel free to have a little fun with that, but do try to not go overboard with it too much." Esme actually laughed and gave him a wink.
So, their break up was planned before hand; and Jasper was in on it. I had a feeling things weren't quite as 'happy family' as they put out there. Jasper smiled and nodded, pushing himself from his seat.
"I promise not to have too much fun. But Alice isn't going to like me much for a while." He laughed and zipped from the room.
Above me, I could hear loud bangs and thuds that sounded as though he was tearing the house apart. Then the sound of cloth ripping filled my ears.
"Oooh.. Alice is gonna be so pissed. Those were all brand new clothes she just bought for him." Emmett chuckled, standing with me cradled in his arms.
I was almost asleep in his lap when a screech bored through my brain.
"Jasper! What in the hell did you do? Those were the newest lines from Dolce and Armani and you ruined them!"
Jasper's deep laugh bellowed from outside the house, and I knew the next couple of days were going to be fun.
A/N: Alrighty, there is it! Sorry for any mistakes.. it was a long ordeal getting this thing out. As always, read and review! Hope you enjoy!