Chapter 5
Josh paced back and forth as he anxiously waited for Alice to tell him everything was resolved with Callista. He was currently hiding out in the game room of Zach and Allie's cottage and trying not to think about the enraged mate that was a few houses away from him at the moment. Natalie entered the room with a comforting smile and he sighed in relief when she hugged him.
"Good, at least you aren't mad at me. I don't think I could handle that right now," he confessed and she frowned in confusion as she stroked his hair.
"Why would I be mad at you?"
"For freaking out on Evan for dating Callista."
"Should I be mad about that? Is she a threat to our relationship," she asked and he beamed with happiness as he shook his head.
"Never and she never will be. I am so in love with you, Nat. What happened with Evan wasn't about me wanting to be with Callista."
"The thought did cross my mind at first and I felt an irrational jealousy, but I remembered that you spend every moment you can with me. Suddenly, I didn't feel so jealous. I actually felt smug. I trust you, Josh."
"Good because I love you so much. All of this was a reminder that I have to be careful at all times though. It was so easy to give in to my anger and let things spiral out of control. I told myself after the Callista stuff in Italy that I had grown up. I was too mature for all that now, but I realize that I was too scared to admit to myself that I still have a lot of growing up to do."
"It isn't something that will happen overnight. It is the same thing I tell myself about opening up to you and getting used to being with someone. I spent years guarding my heart, protecting myself from others, and yet with one look from you, all of that changed. It is terrifying, but amazing all at once. I still have a lot to learn about being a mate, but I already know that you are worth it, which is also why I decided to not let my jealousy get the best of me when it comes to Callista."
"Well good because I think I have been violent enough for the both of us lately. I can't believe I hurt Evan."
"Not to sound insensitive, but he can heal. You didn't do any permanent damage, so why are you beating yourself up about this? It is almost as if it is about more than just Evan and…" She stopped when he sighed.
"Maybe it is," he admitted.
"Wow, maybe I am getting good at this mate thing," she teased and he smiled lovingly at her.
"You are amazing at this mate thing."
"Then tell me what's wrong?"
"Hurting Evan is bad enough, but wolves have a history of accidentally harming the ones they love. My dad did it, Sam did, and I can't bear the idea of that happening to you."
"Lucky for you I am pretty indestructible."
"That's not funny, Nat. I never want you to be afraid of me," he confessed.
"What do you think I see when I look at you," she asked and he shrugged.
"I don't know," he mumbled. His eyes widened when she took a step back from him and used her power to morph into his form right before his eyes.
"Whoa, it's like looking in a mirror, but cooler….and a bit stranger," he chuckled and she smiled at him.
"This is what I see," she informed as she pretended to show off his muscles, ran a hand through his hair, and did his and Zach's secret handshake.
"Hey, you aren't supposed to know that," he warned and she giggled as she morphed back into her original self.
"You probably shouldn't do it in front of everyone all the time if you don't want people to know what it is. That is what I see, Josh. I see you, smiling, laughing, and being yourself. I see the man, not the wolf," she assured and he tenderly kissed her.
"I love you," he whispered and she winked at him.
"You better because I have fallen completely in love with you." She kissed him again and he grinned from ear to ear.
"You know what I just realized when you showed me that?"
"That I have an amazing power?"
"No…well yes…but I am hot stuff. My hair is great. I have a nice smile and…." He shrieked as she ruffled his hair and she burst with laughter. He scowled at her and pouted as she continued to laugh.
"Oh my God, Allie is right. That is the quickest way to shut you up," she laughed and he guffawed.
"You are my mate. You don't get to pick on me!"
"Your mate, I love it when you call me that," she admitted as she hugged him and he kissed the top of her head.
"You are my mate and I know we will be together for eternity. I did learn something from my relationship with Callista. I went way too fast and that is my fault, but in our relationship, I want us to go slower. I want to make sure you always know that everything I do is because I am deeply in love with you, not because of my hormones or wolfy gene."
"Don't be so hard on the wolfy gene. After all, it is why you have all that alphaness running through you," she teased and he nodded with a big grin.
"Good point," he agreed as he hugged her.
"Feel better," she asked.
"Yes, thank you, and I will feel even better if Evan forgives me. I really hope he does."
"He will because he knows your heart."
"I hope you are right," he confessed as he held her close to him.
Callista paced around the shore as she surveyed her surroundings. Renesmee and Nahuel went to get out of dodge, leaving Alice, Jasper, Connell, Tia, Edward, and Bella to deal with the enraged mate. Connell waved awkwardly at her and she gritted her teeth.
"Are you people insane? I don't care how powerful or compassionate the rest of the vampire world thinks you are. The Volturi cannot allow you to dictate people's lives like this," she shrieked.
"The rest of the vampire world thinks we are powerful," asked Emmett as he strolled toward the shore to see everything unfold.
"I like that they think we are compassionate," admitted Bella.
"For the record, dictate is a really harsh word. I prefer meddle, intervene, assist…." Rattled off Alice and Callista glared at them.
"Like I said, insane! I am tired of playing these games. Where is Evan," she demanded and Alice smiled as Esme appeared. Callista sighed in relief.
"Finally, someone that isn't out to harm me. Esme, where is Evan? These people brought me here against my will!"
"I know, I asked them to, but it is for a good reason. Evan was harmed…."
"How? By who," interrogated Callista and Esme glanced over at Edward, who shrugged.
"Might as well," agreed Edward as he read her thoughts.
"There is no easy way to say it and if it was my mate, I would want the complete truth, so here it is. Colt found out about you and Evan. He told Josh and when they confronted Evan, tempers flared and Evan ended up hurt."
"Josh and Colt hurt Evan," questioned Callista.
"Josh lost his temper and…."
"He harmed my mate," she asked and Esme slowly nodded.
"Yes, but…." Before Esme could finish, Callista hurdled over Connell and darted past the shore in search of Josh.
"Go get her," shrieked Alice as she slapped at Connell's arm. He teleported off the shore and returned with Callista firmly in his grasp. She tried to bite Connell and he quickly released her.
"I knew she would be a biter," he said as he jumped away from her and Tia let out a low hiss.
"Watch it," warned Tia and Callista hissed back at her.
"So you get to be mad at me for defending myself against your mate, but I can't be mad when someone actually attacks mine," challenged Callista and Tia gave a curt nod.
"Point taken, but watch it," conceded Tia. Esme stepped in front of Callista to get her attention.
"Evan is upstairs in the main house if you want to….." Callista blurred toward the house and allowed her senses to take over so she could track her mate. She gasped when she saw Evan resting in bed with Carlisle, Embry, and Faye beside him. Faye jumped and gasped when she saw Callista and the two women stared silently at each other. Esme darted into the room and noticed their exchange.
"Carlisle, Embry, Faye, how about we give Callista and Evan a moment alone," suggested Esme and Faye begrudgingly nodded as she exited the room. She watched Callista sit down beside the bed and slip her hand into Evan's before Embry closed the door.
"Are you sure we can trust her," questioned Faye and Esme gave her a sly smile.
"I have kept my eye on her, but yes. I even had Edward, Jasper, and Alice check up on her."
"How," asked Faye.
"Edward read her thoughts to make sure her intentions were true. Jasper confirmed that her emotional bond to Evan is like that of a mate and Alice checked their future together to make sure Callista was in it for the long run. Oh, I also had my dear friend Didyme run an extensive background check on her. She is trustworthy," promised Esme and Faye gave her an appreciative nod.
"Nice," commended Faye as they walked downstairs.
Callista sighed in relief when Evan began to wake up. She didn't realize she had been holding her breath until his eyes opened. He groggily smiled at her and cleared his throat. She grabbed a cup of water from his bedside and held it to his lips. Evan thirstily drank before resting back on his pillow.
"Hey, so I am guessing they told you what happened," he asked and she gritted her teeth.
"I knew I should have never let you leave the cabin. I had a bad feeling and I should have followed my instincts."
"I am okay. It just fell apart quicker than I anticipated. I knew Josh would be angry, but not like that."
"Evan, this is not okay. I want you to come back to the cabin with me. I can take care of you and keep you safe."
"You don't have to protect me from them," he assured as she gently touched his arm.
"You are burning up right now. You are much hotter than usual."
"It happens when my body needs to regenerate. That feels so good, your touch," he informed and she tenderly caressed his arms and chest.
"Come back with me," she pleaded and he nodded.
"I will, but only after all of this is settled. I know you are freaking out. I can tell, but I don't want any more fighting, okay? I need to speak with Josh."
"I am not letting him go anywhere near you."
"He is my friend….."
"Evan, he hurt you and Colt betrayed you. Why aren't you furious?"
"Because I attacked Josh first," he confessed and she was surprised by the admission.
"Really, why?"
"I didn't like what he was saying about you and I started shaking. Before I knew it, we were fighting and I totally forgot how strong Josh is. Colt tried to help me, but Josh kicked our butts. Look, things happened that shouldn't have and I think Josh and I both know that. I am not innocent in all of this. I chose to keep our relationship from him…."
"Because you knew he would act like a maniac and you were right," she argued.
"That isn't why I did it," he confessed.
"I don't understand."
"I kept you away from the pack and Josh because I was worried you wouldn't like me as much when you saw all my cool friends. I was jealous of the night you and Josh had and was afraid you would want him more than me."
"That is ridiculous."
"You kept saying you wanted to just be friends and the only reason we met is because you came to the island for Josh."
"Evan, I didn't say I wanted to just be friends because I wanted Josh back. I am over him and what we had was not love. I said I wanted to be friends because I was scared too. I told myself after Maksim that I would never let someone control me again and yet you have this power over me. I am drawn to you and it scares me. I would die for you, Evan. I have told you more about my life than anyone else, ever. So please trust me when I say you have nothing to worry about." She giggled as he grinned from ear to ear.
"Good because I am so in love with you and I will definitely take you up on that trip to the cabin. I need to resolve some issues here first though. Will you wait for me?"
"Always," she vowed and kissed his forehead.
"I am glad you are here," he whispered as his eyelids got heavy.
"Me too, now rest. I will be here when you wake up." He nodded and fell back asleep as she stroked his hair. She waited a few minutes to make sure he was deep in slumber before darting from the room. She slipped out the back door of the house and Alice rolled her eyes as she and Jasper followed Callista toward Zach and Allie's cottage.
"Does she really think she can sneak by me? If she wasn't so on edge right now, I would smugly assure her that I already alerted everyone that she was heading this way, but with her tension at an all-time high, I better not," conceded Alice as Jasper chuckled. Callista stopped in front Zach and Allie's cottage and called to Josh.
"I know you are in there and we need to talk, now," she demanded. Josh was about to open the door, but Natalie stopped him.
"You don't have to go out there. She is pissed, but you don't owe her anything," said Natalie.
"Actually, I think I do," replied Josh as he walked outside. Natalie was right beside him and his parents stood on the porch to keep an eye on things, along with Rosalie, Emmett, Zach, Allie, Seth, and Kaya.
"Callista, I…"
"Good, the whole gang is here. I don't want to have to repeat myself, so just listen. I don't care if any of you have an issue with me being with Evan. It is none of your damn business. Evan doesn't need your permission and I sure as hell don't. However, in the future, if you have an issue, instead of being a coward and taking out your frustrations on my mate, you can come speak with me. I understand that you are Joshua Black of the powerful Black wolf pack, but you are still just a wolf and I am still a vampire. If you ever harm my mate again, I will kill you and there isn't a Cullen, a Volturi guard, or a wolf that will stop me," threatened Callista and Natalie took a step toward her. Josh glanced back and forth at his mate and Callista as they stared each other down.
"Don't get cocky and forget what happened last time," warned Natalie and Callista smirked.
"I know what your power is and this time you won't catch me off guard. Besides, last time, I was wrong and I can admit that. I remember how enraged you were that day all because I was flirting with your mate. Now just imagine how enraged I am now. Your mate attacked mine just for being with me and shattered his arm. You may be able to look like Zachary Cullen, but you aren't him. This time, I will take my chances," challenged Callista as Josh pulled Natalie back toward him.
"We will call this time a draw, but don't make it a habit of threatening my mate," warned Natalie and Callista quirked an eyebrow at her.
"Keep your mate away from mine and it won't have to be," said Callista before heading back toward the main house to be with Evan. Natalie gritted her teeth.
"I can't stand her," growled Natalie and Allie smiled slyly at her as she wrapped an arm around her friend.
"Well your mate did hurl hers into a pile of sharp rocks and break several of his bones. I think the feeling is mutual," said Allie and Natalie rolled her eyes.
"Fine, we will call it even this time," conceded Natalie. Zach clapped Josh on the back and chuckled.
"Dude, you sure do know how to pick your battles. You managed to piss off your ex-girl….." He stopped when he saw Natalie glaring at him.
"Your ex-gorilla and the entire wolf pack, that is really impressive," laughed Zach.
"Thanks for the support in my time of need, Z," grumbled Josh.
"Hey, if you want my support, then stop attacking people. Evan is cool and I am pretty sure you are going to have to answer to my grandma about that too. You're probably on cookie probation for a while," teased Zach and Josh groaned. Rosalie gave her son a warning look.
"Stop teasing him. He feels badly enough," warned Rosalie and Zach shrugged.
"He injured one of her favorite people….other than me because I am her favorite. That's all I'm saying. Now, with the potential for an enraged mate to try to destroy J out of the way, who wants to play video games," bellowed Zach and Emmett pumped his fist.
"I go first," exclaimed Emmett as he followed his son inside and Rosalie shook her head with a smile.
"So much like his father," she giggled and followed her husband and son into the cottage. Leah and Jacob hugged their son.
"Are you okay," asked Jacob.
"Yea, I just need to go clear my head and then check on Evan. I still have a lot of groveling to do."
"Callista will be there with Evan," warned Leah.
"I know, but I think I owe it to him to venture into Hurricane Callista to show him how sorry I am. Nat, you should stay here though. You two can make things even tenser. I will be back," he explained and she begrudgingly agreed. Allie nudged her.
"That should be our new nickname for her, Hurricane Callista," teased Allie.
"She seems more like a typhoon to me," added Natalie as they walked back into the cottage.
Evan smiled and slowly opened his eyes when he heard his mother's humming. She smiled back at him.
"Hey, how are you feeling," she asked and he tried to lift his broken arm. He winced and sighed.
"It still hurts, but I will be okay. At least it is healing. Wait, where is Callista? She was here when I fell asleep," he said as he attempted to sit up in bed, but Faye stopped him.
"Don't worry, she will be back."
"She is really pissed, mom. I don't want her to do something she will regret later because she is trying to protect me."
"I am sure she will be back soon. You really do love her, don't you?" Evan smiled as he thought about Callista and nodded.
"Very much, she is everything to me. I am sorry that I didn't tell you about her."
"It would have been nice to know that you found the woman you love."
"I wasn't sure how accepting you would have been of her because she is a vampire. I know you aren't a fan of all this."
"Evan, you are still my son and I love you very much. I know I don't deal well with these sorts of things and need time to adjust, but I always want to know what is going on in your life. Having Sam and Esme at our door telling us you were hurt was terrifying. You may look like a grown man and feel like you are because you are in the pack, but you will always be my little boy."
"I love you, mom." She gently hugged him and kissed his cheek.
"I love you too." Evan grinned from ear to ear when there was a knock on the door and Callista poked her head in.
"May I come in," she asked and Evan beamed with happiness.
"You never have to ask and I am happy you are back. Callista, I would like for you to officially meet my mother. Mom, this is my girlfriend, Callista," introduced Evan. Callista and Faye awkwardly shook hands as Evan gauged their responses.
"Wow, your hands are freezing," said Faye as she rubbed her hands together to warm them up. She blushed as realization dawned on her and Callista slowly nodded.
"Sorry about that. Us vampires tend to run cold, I thought you knew since…."
"I did, I just forgot, sorry," replied Faye as the awkward tension set in. They both looked at Evan in confusion when he burst with laughter. He winced and held his ribs as the pain set in.
"Broken ribs, probably shouldn't be laughing," he wheezed and Callista was immediately at his side.
"No, you shouldn't be. What is so funny anyways," she questioned as she checked him over and he shrugged.
"I had this whole plan in my head of how you two would meet. In my plan, I wasn't in a bed nursing my injuries and you two weren't meeting each other for the first time in a house full of vampires," explained Evan and Callista smiled at him.
"It certainly isn't the best of circumstances," she agreed and Faye nodded.
"I never wanted to imagine what it would be like when you brought a girl home, but this wasn't even on my radar," admitted Faye. Callista glanced over at her.
"Well, I hope the next time we see each other, it will be under better circumstances. Maybe we could arrange a time for all of us to…." Suddenly, her senses perked up and she let out a low hiss as someone came up the stairs.
"It will be fine," said Evan as Faye helped him sit up in bed. Colt began to fidget as he entered the room and Callista glared at him.
"Get out," she warned, but Evan shook his head.
"Callista, he is my friend."
"Friends don't betray you. They don't get angry and go tell your secrets to other people. Friends don't get you attacked," she argued and Colt looked down at the ground in shame.
"She's right. This is my fault. I am so sorry, Evan. I didn't think Josh would take it that far."
"Right, because wolves have no problem controlling their anger," argued Callista and Colt scoffed.
"This coming from the vampire that was ready to go on a rampage," challenged Colt. Callista stood up to stand toe to toe with him as they glared at each other. She was not intimidated by his tall stature.
"I was protecting my mate!"
"And I was trying to protect my friend!"
"You did one hell of a job with that since he is now trying to heal from an attack. Tell me, which side of you made that decision, Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde," she shouted.
"Enough, please," shouted Evan, but he immediately winced and held his ribs. Callista sat back down beside him and placed her cool hands on his side.
"I'm sorry. The last thing I want is for you to be upset," said Callista and Colt nodded in agreement.
"I'm sorry too," said Colt and Faye sighed as she stood up.
"It sounds like you three have much to work out. I will be downstairs if you need me, sweetheart," informed Faye. She kissed Evan's cheek and exited the room. Colt sat down on the other side of the bed as the awkward silence filled the room. Evan glanced back and forth between his friend and imprint.
"I know you two have gotten off on the wrong foot, but I want you to try to be friends," said Evan and Callista smirked.
"I don't trust him," she informed and Colt rolled his eyes.
"I made a mistake and I know that, but Evan is my best friend. You're the one that made him lie to me," accused Colt.
"She didn't make me do anything. I chose to keep it from you and the pack, not her. The truth is that sometimes you have a temper and I know you have gotten better at being around vampires, but I knew you wouldn't respond well to me telling you about Callista. That is in the past now though. Colt, Callista is my imprint and you will respect that. Callista, I understand that you are pissed at him, but he is my best friend. Sometimes friends screw up." Colt glanced over at Callista and sighed.
"Fine, okay, you are right. I caused all of this and I royally screwed up, but it isn't because I wanted Evan to get hurt. I was trying to protect him from you. Your past with Josh made me think you were out to manipulate Evan and I didn't want to see my best friend get crushed."
"I am not that person anymore. I love Evan," assured Callista as she held Evan's hand and he smiled.
"She is my imprint, Colt. You have to respect that as part of the pack, but I hope you can respect that as my friend too," said Evan.
"I can, so does that mean you forgive me?"
"Yea, we are good," agreed Evan and Colt sighed in relief. Josh awkwardly knocked on the door before entering and Callista growled.
"Now what do you want," asked Callista and Colt glared at Josh.
"Yea, what do you want," asked Colt and Evan chuckled.
"Apparently they are on the same side now. Come in, I am glad you are here," said Evan as he yawned.
"Evan, you should rest," said Callista, but Evan shook his head.
"I'm good. We all need to talk and I rather do it now so there aren't issues later. Look Josh, I am sorry for…." Josh shook his head.
"You have nothing to apologize for. I kind of proved you right by freaking out like that. I understand why you kept everything a secret for so long. I am really sorry about hurting you, Evan. It wasn't okay and it will never happen again."
"So does that mean you are okay with us," asked Evan.
"Yes because I was wrong and Callista, I want to apologize to you too. You and I used each other and neither one of us came out completely unscathed, but it all turned out for the best. I can tell that you are really in love. It is the only way to explain why you were willing to threaten to kill me while on an island surrounded by vampires that could easily take you down. That was pretty badass of you," admitted Josh and Callista smiled.
"Thank you," she said as Evan smiled dreamily at her.
"You are totally a badass for that. I love you," he whispered and she kissed him sweetly. Josh cleared his throat.
"Alright, I have a few more stops to make on the Joshua Black Apology Tour, so I will leave you two alone. Colt, are we okay," asked Josh and Colt shrugged. Evan kicked him with his uninjured leg and Colt rolled his eyes.
"Yea, we'll be fine," Colt reluctantly agreed. Josh sighed in relief and gave a nod before quickly exiting the room. He trotted downstairs and gulped when he noticed Esme heading toward the kitchen. He tried to stealthily tiptoe toward it and poked his head around the corner. She pulled out a baking sheet and placed it on the stove.
"I hate to sound like my daughter, but really Josh, you thought you could sneak around me," called Esme with a giggle and he smiled sheepishly as he entered the kitchen.
"Hey, Esme, sweet, compassionate, understanding Esme, how are you doing on this peaceful, nonviolent night," he asked and she giggled again as she turned to face him.
"I know you are sorry and of course all is forgiven."
"Really," he asked and she nodded.
"Yes, really," she assured.
"Forgiven like you aren't mad but will hold cookies hostage from me forgiven or like, really forgiven," he questioned and she held her arms out to him.
"I will make you cookies later," she agreed. He pumped his fist.
"Yay," he exclaimed and hugged her tightly. She laughed as he twirled her around.
"Thank you and I am sorry if I disappointed you. I never want you to feel disappointed in me," he admitted and she cupped his cheek.
"You are my grandson. I am not disappointed in you. You are one of my favorites after all."
"I better be," he chuckled and she winked at him. Josh happily jogged back to Zach and Allie's cottage with a bright smile and a sense of relief, feeling as though things were finally getting back on track.
Carlisle suggested that Evan stay on the island for a couple more days to finish healing. Faye, Embry, Sam, Emily, and the wolf pack visited him with the help of Connell and Esme was in bliss having so many people to cook for. Callista decided to go for a hunt while Sam and Drew kept Evan company. The rest of the pack was in the game room playing video games with Zach, Allie, Josh, and Natalie. Sam chuckled when he heard boisterous laughing from the game room.
"They missed hanging out here. I don't blame them since Esme spoils them with her cooking," said Sam and Drew smirked at him.
"I don't see you complaining, Alpha. How much pie did you have last night? You are an old man. Shouldn't you be watching your figure," teased Drew and Evan smiled at them.
"I am happy everything is back to normal. It is nice being here with everyone. Thanks for being so cool with Callista. She was really nervous about being around all of you," admitted Evan and Drew shrugged.
"She is your imprint, which means she will always be treated with respect around us or there will be consequences. I made sure to explain that to the others. Sam and I know what it is like when you imprint. It can be overwhelming and the last thing you need to worry about is the pack," explained Drew and Sam nodded in agreement.
"The truth is that we knew something was different. We both experienced imprinting and could sense the change in you, but we didn't want to push the issue until you were ready," revealed Sam.
"You knew," asked Evan in surprise and Drew chuckled.
"Evan, come on, you refused to phase and went from constantly wanting to hang out to missing bonfires. We knew something was up," said Drew and Evan smiled sheepishly.
"I should have just told everyone, but I was freaking out."
"When I imprinted on Emily, our situation was far more complicated. I am happy for you. Callista is good for you and she is welcomed on our land," declared Sam and Evan beamed with happiness.
"Thanks, Sam. That means a lot to me." They all jumped in shock when Connell, Tia, Callista, Alice, and Jasper teleported into the room.
"Was that necessary? The door is right there," exclaimed Sam and Alice giggled.
"No, but it was funny to see your reactions. Evan, Esme and Carlisle said you can stay as long as you want but I know you are ready to get back to Sequim," informed Alice.
"Sequim," asked Drew and Evan grinned.
"Callista is staying in a cabin there. I am going to spend some time with her. My mom wasn't too thrilled about that, but my dad talked her into it. I think I owe my imprint my undivided attention," he said as he winked at Callista and she giggled. Evan crawled out of bed and stretched. He wiggled his fingers and flexed the muscles of his injured arm.
"How do you feel," asked Callista and Evan wrapped his arms around her.
"Amazing, let's get out of here," he replied with a bright smile. Esme glided into the room and gave Evan a hug.
"See you soon," she said and he kissed her cheek.
"Thanks for everything. I wouldn't have gotten through any of this without you, Esme," said Evan. Carlisle walked in and hugged Evan as well.
"You still need to take it easy for the next few days, okay," advised Carlisle and Evan chuckled.
"Of course, Carlisle, I will be sure to not get into any fights anytime soon," agreed Evan.
"Evan, your mom and dad are already in La Push. Connell was amused by her response to teleportation," said Alice.
"I wish I could have seen that," chuckled Evan. Drew smiled hopefully at Connell.
"Can you take me back to the rez? Lexi and I have a date," asked Drew and Alice planted her hands on her hips.
"When are you going to tell her about the pack? You better do it soon. She should be at the wedding and you should give her plenty of time to adjust to all this information before that happens. Chop, chop, Drew," scolded Alice and he blushed.
"I am working on it," he defended.
"You have been working on it for months," she exclaimed.
"Alright, wee one, leave the poor pup alone. It must be difficult telling the woman you love that you turn into a canine when life gets tough," said Connell and Drew rolled his eyes.
"I don't think that is the best way to explain the wolf gene, but thanks Connell….I think," said Drew and Connell shrugged.
"Sounds about right to me. Alright, all aboard, first stop, Pup Island," announced Connell and Alice giggled.
"Jazzy and I will see you soon. Tia, we must go shopping," said Alice.
"Another Alice Cullen shopping extravaganza, it sounds lovely," said Tia and Alice hugged her.
"See, why can't everyone embrace shopping adventures like you," asked Alice.
"See you soon," said Tia. The pack filed into the room to say goodbye to Evan.
"So you're going to Sequim," asked Colt.
"Yea, but it is only for a couple of weeks," assured Evan.
"Callista, you should come to a bonfire soon," suggested Daniel and Callista was taken aback by the invitation.
"I would enjoy that. Thank you, Daniel," said Callista.
"Everyone ready now," asked Connell and they each nodded. They were gone a split second later and Carlisle wrapped his arms around his wife.
"My love, I believe a hunt is in order," he recommended and she winked at him.
"That sounds wonderful, we will see you kids later," said Esme as she followed her mate out of the room and the pack waved goodbye.
"Bye Esme, bye Dr. Fang," called the pack and they chuckled when Carlisle shook his head in amusement. Jasper groaned as he felt Alice's mood shift.
"Darlin' what has you so anxious all of a sudden? I was hoping we could go for a hunt," he suggested.
"In a bit, Jazzy, I promise, but there is much to do," she announced as she skipped out of the room. Sam smiled sympathetically at Jasper.
"You are a brave man to keep up with her," teased Sam as he saluted Jasper and the pack nodded in agreement.
"My darlin' is always worth it," replied Jasper and they chuckled as he went to find Alice. Sam smiled at Daniel.
"That was very nice of you to invite Callista to the bonfire," commended Sam and Owen scoffed.
"He wasn't just doing it out of the kindness of his heart," teased Owen and Daniel blushed. Sam's eyes widened.
"Do you have a crush on Callista? Daniel, you can't….."
"I wouldn't call it a crush. I just think she is beautiful, like, very beautiful. Seriously, how did Evan win the bet? Did anyone even bet on Evan," asked Daniel as Owen, Tommy, and Braden shook their heads. Colt raised his hand with a smug smile.
"I did," Colt practically sang and they rolled their eyes.
"That doesn't count. You originally said he would never and then you changed your mind because you saw how much he likes Esme," argued Tommy.
"Do I even want to know what you are talking about," asked Sam and Braden chuckled.
"It was just a friendly wager we made when we first started hanging out with Josh and Zach. We placed a bet to see which one of us would end up with a vampire. After Drew showed up at the Christmas Party, I was sure he would be the one to end up with a vampire because he danced with so many, but I never would have guessed Evan! What are the odds," exclaimed Braden and Colt held his hand out.
"Better than you thought, now pay up," said Colt and Owen rolled his eyes.
"You know dude, I think you should be disqualified since you freaked out when he did find his imprint. All in favor," asked Owen. Braden, Tommy, and Daniel raised their hands.
"What? No way! I won, now hand it over," declared Colt and they begrudgingly each gave him twenty dollars.
"I still can't believe it! I was sure that I would be the one to find a hot vampire to shack up with, but Evan? I mean Callista is hot. She isn't Rosalie hot, but she is totally hot," explained Daniel and Tommy shushed him.
"Don't let Zach hear you say that," whispered Tommy and Zach darted into the room.
"Heard it and not amused," announced Zach before darting back into the game room. Daniel shrugged.
"It is true. All I am saying is that I need to learn Evan's secret because I thought I had way more game than him," explained Daniel and Sam clapped him on the back.
"It is called imprinting. Good luck figuring out how to predict when it will happen. Many have tried to no avail. You boys have fun with that," said Sam with a laugh before leaving.
"I wonder if Callista has a sister," pondered Daniel and Tommy laughed.
"Dude, you are getting creepy," warned Tommy.
"What, it is a perfectly fair question," defended Daniel as he followed the others back to the game room.
Callista blinked several times as she appeared back in her cabin with Connell, Tia, and Evan. She held out her hand to Connell and he shook it with a smile.
"Thank you for bringing us back. I am sorry for almost biting you before."
"Well, we did kidnap you," replied Connell. Tia kissed Evan's cheek and smiled at him.
"Take it easy for a few days, alright," she asked and Evan nodded.
"I will. Thanks, Tia, and Connell, you are awesome as always," commended Evan as he bumped fists with Connell. Callista was surprised when Tia gave her a hug.
"Take care of him," whispered Tia.
"I will," she assured. Connell and Tia waved goodbye before disappearing and Callista sat down on the bed as Evan looked around the cabin.
"This place is really nice," he said as his heart started to pound.
"Evan, come sit down. You still need your rest," she informed and he sat down beside her.
"I feel great and I am just happy to finally be alone with you again. The pack is fun, but I miss spending time with you."
"It was very sweet of them to invite me to La Push. I wasn't expecting that."
"You are officially recognized as my imprint, which means no more meeting in Port Angeles or being worried about who sees us," he informed as he laced their fingers together and she smiled.
"Good because I don't care anymore. When I found out that you were hurt, it scared me so much. It made me realize how stupid it is to worry about what others think of us. I love you and that's all that matters."
"I love you too," he whispered before tenderly kissing her. She could feel his heart thundering in his chest and the warmth radiating from his body. She ran a hand through his hair as he pulled her into his lap.
"Well, I am finally inside of your cabin and we can do whatever we want. So, what do you want to do," he asked and she bit her lip nervously.
"I know what I desire, but I don't want to hurt you. What about your arm and ribs," she asked as she caressed his chest and he grinned at her.
"I trust that you will go easy on me," he teased and she nodded as they fell back onto the bed with a laugh.
Leah and Jacob walked into the kitchen of the main house and giggled when they saw Josh, Seth, Kaya, Renesmee, and Nahuel eating cookies at the table. Natalie was sitting by her mate and watching in amusement.
"Did you save any for us," teased Leah and Seth smirked.
"You snooze, you lose when it comes to cookies. These people just better be happy I am sharing," said Seth. Zach, Allie, Rosalie, and Emmett, entered the kitchen and Zach rolled his eyes.
"You know, big bro, you don't own grandma's cookie recipe," informed Zach.
"I don't have to own it as long as she makes them for me, which she always will because I am her favorite," assured Seth. Renesmee frowned at him.
"You say that all the time, but I don't know why you think you are her favorite. It is pretty obvious who her favorite is," said Renesmee.
"Obviously," agreed Zach, but then frowned as his cousin eyed him suspiciously.
"I was talking about me," declared Renesmee.
"That's cute, but come on. We all know who grandma's favorite is. She thinks I am adorable, I play her favorite songs on the piano for her, and she loves my curly hair and dimples," he listed as Edward, Bella, Alice, and Jasper walked in.
"I was playing lullabies for her long before you were born, nephew," reminded Edward and Rosalie smirked.
"I accepted a long time ago that we were no longer at the top of that list. It belongs to her grandchildren now. I am mature enough to admit that, unlike you and Alice," said Rosalie and Alice scoffed.
"That is only because you are a daddy's girl and are fine as long as you think you are Carlisle's favorite," accused Alice. Rosalie examined her nails.
"That's not being a daddy's girl. That's just called facts," quipped Rosalie.
"Have any of you ever just asked Esme," suggested Nahuel and Renesmee smiled smugly.
"No need to ask what you already know," she informed. Suddenly, Carlisle and Esme rushed back into the house frantically.
"Alice, what is it? We were on the yacht heading out for a hunt when you called," explained Carlisle.
"Is everything alright," asked Esme and Alice hugged her mother.
"Of course it is, we just had a quick question for you and then you can be on your merry way," explained Alice, but Esme eyed her cautiously. She looked around the room and noticed all eyes were on her.
"My love, why do I feel like we are being plotted against," asked Esme and Alice waved her off.
"We would never…."
"You have," reminded Esme.
"Again," corrected Alice and Carlisle crossed his arms.
"What is going on, Alice," he asked and Zach wrapped an arm around Esme.
"Grandma, we just need you to clear something up for the others because I already know the answer."
"What answer," asked Esme.
"That I am your favorite and the others are loved, but they aren't your lovable, adorable grandson with all the alphaness running through him," explained Zach and Seth smirked.
"You forgot to add humble," mocked Seth and Zach stuck his tongue out at him. Carlisle chuckled as Esme let out a whine.
"You called us back here to ask that irrelevant question," asked Esme.
"These are the kinds of important questions that we need to know in this eternal existence," exclaimed Alice and Esme giggled at her daughter. She kissed her cheek and smiled adoringly.
"Alice, you are my favorite…."
"I knew it," shouted Alice.
"Vibrant, future-seeing daughter. Zach, you are my favorite blond-haired, dimpled grin grandson with your father's contagious laugh. Seth, you are my favorite sweet, caring, cookie obsessed grandson. Josh, you are my favorite and most fashionable grandson. Renesmee, you are my favorite independent, wise beyond your years granddaughter. I love Edward's brilliant mind and Jasper's ability to be stoic and yet always empathetic. I love Rosalie's unwavering love for her family and Emmett's love of life. I love Bella's determination. I love Nahuel's patience and Kaya's devotion. I love Jacob and Leah's strength and ability to overcome everything we have faced in the past, so that they can be part of our family. Allie, Natalie, you two are my favorite powerful, independent women that make two of my grandsons extremely happy. So you see, I don't have a favorite because you each bring something special to our family and Carlisle and I are so blessed," explained Esme. Carlisle wrapped his arms around his mate.
"Very blessed," he agreed. Seth raised his hand.
"I am still your favorite wolf from the original wolf pack though, right? I mean I should win that in a landslide," said Seth. Leah and Jacob rolled their eyes at him.
"Really," asked Leah and Seth shrugged.
"I think that's a fair question," he said with a chuckle.
"Now if you will excuse us, we are going for a hunt and expect to not be bothered unless it is an emergency," said Carlisle as he gave Alice a look. She kissed his cheek.
"Of course," she promised. He winked at her before leaving once again with his mate.
"Well I think she made it clear who her favorite is," said Alice and Edward pinched the bridge of his nose. Zach eyed him suspiciously.
"Wait, Uncle Edward, you can read grandma's thoughts. Does she have a favorite? Be honest," questioned Zach and Edward smiled at him.
"Even if she did, I would never betray her trust like that or invade her privacy. She meant what she said," informed Edward.
"Alright well we are going to play some more video games. I think the pack is trying to beat our high scores and that will not do," announced Zach as Allie slipped her hand into his. Edward groaned as Alice stopped them.
"Not so fast, you two! Evan and Callista are happy. I have meddled and corrected their issues with the pack. Now it is time to get back to business. Let the wedding planning resume," she exclaimed and dread filled Allie as she shook her head.
"No, no, no, we are done planning. We have the dress, the invitations have been made, the menu has been decided, and the color scheme, after months of negotiations, has been chosen. What else could you possibly have to annoy me with," wailed Allie and Alice jutted her chin out.
"I don't like your tone, but I will forgive you because it is going to be beautiful! Rosalie, don't even try to tattle on me to mom or dad because I made an agreement with them!"
"Agreement, what kind of agreement," asked Rosalie worriedly. Alice placed her head on her sister's shoulder and sighed contently.
"Have I not been patient lately? Haven't I allowed you time to vacation with Emmett and go for hunts and not be bothered with the details of the wedding these past weeks? Haven't I," asked Alice and Rosalie gritted her teeth.
"Maybe," she conceded.
"Exactly, because I made a deal that if I could give you time now, you would have to help me with the wedding details later. It was all part of my plan," announced Alice and Rosalie eyed her suspiciously.
"So it was part of your plan to get Evan hurt?" Alice gasped dramatically.
"Don't even joke about that, Rosalie McCarty Cullen! I may have miscalculated a few things, but it wasn't my fault. Wolves are almost impossible to see around. Speaking of which, Josh, you need to tell the pack to work on that. Oh, by the way, Callista is now added to the guest list."
"What," shrieked Zach, Allie, Josh, and Natalie.
"Oh don't give me that look! It has to happen. Evan has to be in attendance and his mate deserves to be there. Besides, I think things have gone well if you omit the threatening to kill mates and attacks and unnecessary violence. Now, have fun tonight because tomorrow, we are starting fresh. There is still so much to do and I cannot wait! Come on, Jazzy, let's go hunt. I will need my energy," cheered Alice. Jasper chuckled as he followed his mate outside and Zach and Allie gulped.
"Mom, help," whined Zach and Rosalie winked at him.
"The pixie may have won this round, but I will talk to your grandparents when they come back. After all, this is your big day, not Alice's, so don't worry," assured Rosalie.
"Don't make promises you can't keep. Alice has a pretty detailed plan that will be hard to challenge," warned Edward and Rosalie smiled slyly at him.
"Have you forgotten who you are talking to? My tenacity has gotten me quite far in life and besides, I never said I would do it alone, dear brother. Now, if only someone with my wit that has helped me knock her down a peg or two before could help me. Hmm," said Rosalie as she tapped her chin and Edward grinned as he read her thoughts.
"Hmmm," he said.
"Let's table this talk until we are in La Push and surrounded by the pack," she suggested and he shook her hand.
"Deal," he agreed and Bella nudged Emmett.
"They are scary when they work together," she whispered and Emmett nodded in agreement. Allie wrapped her arms around Zach and stared lovingly into his eyes.
"Since your aunt is hell bent on dictating our entire wedding, how about we go spend some time alone while we still can," suggested Allie and Zach happily nodded. He scooped her up into his arms and darted from the house. The others made plans to relax and stay out of Alice's grasp, knowing that the wedding would be the only thing on Alice's mind until it was executed to perfection.
AN: The end….for now! Next up, the wedding! I hope you enjoyed the story and learning more about Evan and Callista. Let me know what you are looking for more of, what characters do you feel you are missing out on, and what do you want to see happen next? Thanks for keeping up with the Choice Series and until next time, peace, love, and always Twilight!