The cream-colored, gilt-edged invitation arrived the week before Christmas. No one in the Clearwater house greeted its arrival with equanimity.
Seth was thrilled. "A New Year's Eve party at the Cullens'!" he gushed.
Leah was appalled. "You have fun with your BFF Edward," she grumped.
Sue was conflicted. She was not a very social creature, but she liked the Cullens well enough. They had always been kind to her tribe, and Seth was infatuated with one and all. But the thought of werewolves and vampires partying together was a little unsettling. Her decision was made for her, however, when Charlie called and reported he'd been invited too. He would be working, of course, but he promised to stop by around midnight for one dance and to wish his "best girl" a happy new year.
As it turned out, Leah's decision was made in much the same way. At a meeting of the pack just before Christmas, Jacob sought her out just as the meeting broke up. Leah was scheduled for the next patrol, and as she phased and bounded toward the reservation's perimeter, she realized that she was being followed by the large, reddish brown wolf. Jake knew there was no way to hold a private conversation with everyone around having enhanced hearing, so this was the best way to communicate in private.
I hope you're going to be my date for the Cullens' party, he communicated to her as they ran. I can't wait to show Bella that I'm over her and I'm moving on with my life.
Oh, please, Jake. You don't think for one minute that Bella would fall for that "Leah's my new girlfriend" routine! IF I was planning to go, which I'm not. And don't bother making wolfy eyes at me. It won't work.
He tried the wolfy eyes anyway. I thought we were finally friends, Leah. This really means a lot to me. Leah wondered if wolf faces could actually pout; it sure seemed like it.
Jacob Black, there is absolutely no way in hell that I am going to the Cullens' house for a party. Period.
Okay, Leah, it was just a thought. I figured it would be a nice way to start the new year, with my best friend and all. Just forget I mentioned it. Billy and I can open up a can of beans; maybe we'll just turn in early. I figured you might wear that skimpy red dress I like so much, show those leeches how it's done…
Leah barked a wolfish laugh. Do you have any idea how much you're going to owe me for this?
The night of the party arrived quickly. Seth's lanky form was handsomely clad in black slacks and a grey blazer, and Leah couldn't help but feel festive in the slinky red dress that went so well with her dark hair. Sue's dress was purple, and she fretted nervously with her makeup.
The Cullen house was lit, inside and out, with thousands of tiny white lights, and there was a large Christmas tree in the living room. It was beautifully decorated in white and gold, and a buffet table was heaped with food for the human guests. The company included all seven of the Cullens, of course, as well as their vampire friends Carmen and Eleazar from Alaska, Bella, Sue, Emily, and the entire Quileute wolf pack.
There was also a striking dark-haired vampire, introduced as Paris Mekenzie, who seemed to captivate Seth. She appeared to be about his age, and they quickly became inseparable, dancing together, talking and laughing at any pause in the music. This did not escape Leah's attention, and she was not thrilled, but in spite of her prejudice she grudgingly found Paris to be sweet and friendly. Besides, it was nice to see Seth so happy.
Leah was surprised to find herself having a good time. The Cullens were all gracious and friendly, and she found herself in a group including Jacob, Emmett, and Rosalie. Jake and Rosalie entertained the group with a running comedy act, between his blonde jokes and her apparent disdain, that kept the others in stitches. "Hey, Rosalie, what's the difference between a smart blonde and Bigfoot?" Jake asked. "Maybe some day we'll find Bigfoot," he chortled. Rosalie growled as everyone else laughed.
Music was provided by Edward's massive collection of CD's, and the guests danced, ate, drank, and talked the night away. Time flew by in a whirl of music, laughter, and bright colors.
Edward was an accomplished pianist, and when he played a waltz everyone crowded onto the floor to dance. Leah found to her surprise that she and Jacob were a perfect fit, as he held her close and twirled her expertly around the floor. As Sue sat by herself, smiling at the dancers, Charlie appeared at her side and offered his hand. They waltzed in the new year, and as the clock struck midnight, shared a sweet kiss. Out of the corner of her eye, Sue smiled as she saw Seth, blushing, kiss Paris on the cheek. Alice twirled around the room, kissing everyone, and there were champagne toasts and warm wishes everywhere.
Carried away with the celebratory mood, Jacob swept Leah into his arms at midnight and kissed her soundly. It surprised both of them, and they laughed off their embarrassment.
Happy New Year, everyone!