A/N: Thank you everyone for your reviews on the last chapter! I know that this chapter is late, and not a whole lot of excuses except for life just really got in the way. But I am going to be making a concerted effort to finish this story in the next month or so. That means that the updates will hopefully be coming quickly from this point going forward. I really just want to say thank you to everyone reviewing this story, recommending in on blogs, etc. You guys are the sunshine in my day! (Don't tell my husband that! *grin*).

Chapter 20

Jasper's mind was reeling from what Bella just told him. Char had located the vampire responsible and she now wanted them to come to her, to try and absolve the family of the curse bestowed upon them. He also knew, without Bella trying to influence his judgement, that Bella would want to go to Voltura right away. He couldn't fault her for that.

Jasper clasped his hands behind his back, pacing back and forth, thinking, plotting. He pondered on the idea of going to Italy, weighing the pros and cons. Strategically, it was not the best idea, in fact, it could very well be suicide. The Volturi clearly had the advantage with it being their territory, surrounded by their people.

He had been furious with Alice when she had taken off with Bella to save Edward on a whim a few years back, and she had almost gotten herself killed in the process. Jasper was rarely rash; he had seen too many people fail when they did not think out their plans. He knew rationally that Alice had not had the luxury of time on her side in that instance, but the idea had been irresponsible at best.

There was not a way that Jasper could come up with to extract the needed vampire and interrogate him or her without causing an all out war. They just did not have the advantage of numbers at this point and their abilities couldn't outmatch the guards numbers, despite Bella's ability to defuse their multiple talents. No, this situation needed to be handled delicately and as much as he hated it, it needed to be handed on their terms most likely.

Jasper had paced back and forth for well over an hour, going over different options in his head, when he felt Bella's hands upon him. He closed his eyes at her touch, the touch of her skin touching his, having a similar calming effect to his ability. Jasper could feel the uncertainty from his mate as she turned to him. "Jasper, this pacing is killing me. I need to know- what are you thinking? What should we do?"

Jasper thought it interesting that Bella did not insist that they go to Italy right at that moment, to plead their case. The past week with Bella had been dictated with numerous impetuous decisions from her, her emotions ranging so dramatically that even Jasper had a hard time keeping track. But her emotions were steady now, and she waited patiently for his answers, deferring to him.

"I don't like it. I don't like it at all. But... we need to go, we need to settle this once and for all. This isn't something we simply sit on, waiting for a more opportune time. Still, there are so many questions unanswered, so many things that are not adding up."

Bella fingers ghosted along his forearm before they reached his own fingers, clasping tightly. "I know."

Jasper concentrated on the feel of her hand in his and looked at her as the Wyoming winter weather began to whirl around the both of them once more. Jasper reached up with his free hand, tracing her jawline with his thumb. He knew this wasn't the best time to be persistent, but this was his, no, their future they were talking about. "Darlin' I need to know the answer. Do you want this? Do you want us? This information complicates things, but it doesn't change how I feel for you or how I want to approach this relationship."

Bella bit her lip and Jasper thought for a moment that perhaps it was unfair to push the subject, but he desperately wanted to know. Bella leaned over touching her lips to his, gently. Jasper couldn't help but notice how eagerly she pressed her body up against his, her breasts heaving against his chest, her hands slowly entwining his snow covered hair.

Jasper let her dictate the intimate moment, allowing her love to overtake him completely, sending him into a euphoria he had never experienced before. He finally responded in kind, deepening the kiss, letting himself relish in the taste of her. She pulled away from him, only to find that talented mouth of hers now leaving soft caresses down his jaw, his throat, and his upper chest. She made her way back up to his mouth, kissing him briefly before stepping back.

Jasper growled as she pulled away. Her eyes locked with his. "This is complicated. There are going to be hurt feelings no matter what happens, but we owe them Jasper, we owe our family their rightful memories. I am not going to lie and say I don't still have lingering feelings for Edward; I do. But I want you. I chose you. Everything in my being is telling me that this, us, is right and it is the path we need to be on. I am tired of denying it, I'm tired of telling myself Edward is simply enough. You are my mate. But we need to tread very lightly until this is all resolved."

Jasper nodded. It wasn't a perfect answer, but an honest one. And it was a good enough one for now.

*********************

They made the arrangements for a private jet to transport them to Europe rather quickly, and spent most of the time on the plane tossing back and forth ideas on why the Volturi would be involved in all of this. Surely, if their intention had been to break up the family and stregthen their own coven, they would have changed the Cullen's memories to make Edward and Alice part of the guard. To not do so is illogical.

The plane landed during the quickly fading twilight, and Jasper and Bella wasted no time entering the airport, surveying the crowd for any sign of Charlotte. The airport was packed despite it being the middle of the work week, tourists still eagerly visiting despite it being the off season. Bella clutched on to Jasper tightly and he could feel from her traces of blood lust; Jasper was not sure when was the last time she had been in this close of proximity to so many humans. Bella's resolve was waivering, and Jasper focused on calming her, hoping that would do the trick.

She smiled at him gratefully, a soft, "better" falling from her lips to his unspoken question. Jasper grabbed her hand, squeezing it softly, looking down at her.

"Jasper Whitlock and Bella Cullen, I presume?"

Jasper froze for a moment, not sensing the vampires until it was too late. His golden eyes quickly assessed the vampire in front of him, confirming his suspicions. Volturi vampire was large, but someone that Jasper could take in fight. His friends, who flanked him on either side, Jasper was not so sure about. "Yes."

"Come this way please, your presence has been requested." It was all very pleasant, the way a business associate would talk to a potential client, but left no doubt that it was a demand they needed to follow.

"Our bags." Bella turned, in a futile attempt to leave.

The vampire grabbed a hold of her arm turning her around. "No need to concern yourself over such a little matter. They are being taken care of and will be in your room when you arrive."

Jasper followed slowly. "We were expecting a friend to meet us here at the airport. Surely they will be concerned if we do not show up."

A vampire with the traditional dark Italian hair responded. "I am assuming you are referring to Charlotte. Not to worry; she is fine and is currently staying a guest with us as you will be" Jasper cursed under his breath. Charlotte had gone and gotten herself caught by the Volturi. His worst case scenario was quickly becoming reality.

The vampire who identified himself as Felix led them through the airport terminal quickly, a black luxury sedan waiting for them. Bella and Jasper were ushered inside with Felix and another of his comrades sat facing them.

As the door shut with a clang, Jasper casually looked their escorts in the eyes. "So what do we owe such... hospitality?" His voice purposely dripped with the disdain he felt.

Chuckles emitted from both of the guard members, and Felix, clearly the leader of this bunch, stared lazily over at Bella before turning to Jasper. "Vampires visiting our fair city get special treatment." Felix chuckled, his eyes wandering up and down Bella once more. "However, some get more special treatment then others."

Bella shifted uncomfortably underneath his stare. Jasper cleared his throat. "Well, as much as I am sure it is appreciated, we would hate to put you out so."

Felix chuckled. "Oh, I assure you, it is no bother. Bella, I must say you have turned into quite the beautiful vampire. Wouldn't you say so Demetri?" Felix looked at his companion next to him. Demetri merely nodded.

Jasper let out a small growl, making Felix snicker further. Jasper hated that the arrogant vampire was getting underneath his skin. The rest of the ride was held in silence and soon they were pulling up to the heart of Voltura, the pulse of the Volturi.

Felix ushered them out of the car as quickly as they were ushered in. They were led down nondescript hall after nondescript hall, till they were led deeper and deeper into the heart of the castle. Jasper noticed Bella concentrating heavily on the footfalls that echoed around the empty hall, barely focusing on the old castle. He nudged her, checking to see if she was alright. Her irritation poured forth into him, and he knew it was not about the predicament they now found themselves in. Jasper just turned slightly to see what was irking her so, when he noticed Felix's eyes placed soundly on her ass. The muscles in Jasper's jaw tightened, and his fingers digging into his palm as he tried to control his anger. All traces of the southern gentlemen male left, the mirth gone from his voice, a familiar authoritative voice he used when Major returning.

"I would stop ogling your 'guest' if I were you. I would hate to have an accident befall a member of the prized guard."

The threat did not deter Felix. "I don't see her complaining."

Jasper stopped and turned on his heels, wrapping a hand around the guard member's throat tightly, lifting him off the ground, eying him severely. "Do not mistake me for someone that does not follow through on their threats. I assure you, I will come out the victor."

Jasper released him carelessly. Felix moved to fight Jasper, but Demetri grabbed him, muttering a warning that "they were not to be touched."

Felix shrugged Demetri off of him and glared as Jasper. "Lucky for you I am in a generous mood."

"Lucky for you, I don't feel like wasting my time killing you." was the only response Jasper gave.

They continued their quicker than human pace, and were finally led up a stone spiral staircase, leading to an upper floor. Bella shot Jasper a look, advising Jasper that this was obviously not the direction of where the great room, where Aro, Marcus, and Caius held court.

Bella turned to Demetri, effectively ignoring Felix. "We are not seeing Aro?"

Demetri quickened his pace. "Not tonight. As we said, you are guests here. You stay here at the pleasure of the Volturi; business does not need to be attended to this evening. They will call for you when they are ready to. In the meantime, you will stay here, make yourselves comfortable. Aro has even arranged for some blood to be brought to you fresh that your lifestyle would prefer."

Demetri and Felix stopped in front a large room. "This will be your suite. There are several rooms adjoining if you would like some privacy. Feel free to roam the premises, but do not consider leaving; Aro would take personal offense to that after he has offered his generosity."

Bella nodded. "Anything else?"

"That is it for now." Demetri opened the door and motioned for the both of them to enter. Bella entered first, with Jasper trailing behind her. The door closed with a resounding bang and it was then Jasper decided to take in his surroundings. It was by all accounts a beautiful room; functional and the Renaissance period influence very prevalent. They both quickly walked through the suite, the main room was a formal sitting room, with a less formal living room attached to the right; on the left were two bedrooms with a powder room adjoining the both rooms finalized the area.

"It's a large suite." Bella commented walking back out into the formal living room. She rested against the window. "It looks as if they expect us to be staying here a while. What do you make of all this?"

Jasper watched Bella's silhouette against the light of the full moon that was beginning to filter through the glass. She simply glowed; she was beautiful. A part of him wanted to just stand there and admire her the way she deserved to be, but the other part of him was very much aware that they were prisoners. Well taken care of, but prisoners nonetheless. And because of that, his military side demanded that he assess the situation. "I don't know. But the Volturi obviously felt the need to take control of this situation and that does not sit easy with me."

Bella walked over to the bookshelf and began to mindlessly flip through a book that appeared to be a few hundred years old. "Italian." She muttered before slamming the book shut and placing it back on the shelf. "It doesn't sit well with me either. What do we do? Just sit here and wait to be called? I don't know that I can do that."

"I think we should walk around the premises, get our bearings. You were only here when you were human, and I have avoided this place like the plague all these years. So both of us are at a distinct disadvantage."

Bella moved her lips as if to respond when a knock came at the door. Jasper shot her a quick look before turning to the door, urging her to stay where she was. He opened up the door a notch before a familiar scent wafted in. "Charlotte."

The short blond strolled through the door, closing it shut. She looked Jasper up and down quickly before wrapping him in a hug. "There was a rumor that the both of you had arrived. I'm so sorry for not meeting you at the airport."

Bella stayed by the bookshelf, looking at his old friend. "Char, what is going on? Are you alright?"

Charlotte walked over to Bella, giving her a quick hug. "I'm as good as can be expected. But the Volturi found out about my stay in Voltura shortly after my last call with you. There was not anytime to warn you that they were now aware that you were both coming."

Bella asked, "How did they find out about you being here?" at the same time Jasper asked, "Where is Peter?"

Charlotte looked back and forth between them, unsure who to answer first. But at that question, the door barged open, Jasper overwhelmed by the annoyance and frustration pouring off of the vampire who just intruded.

"Peter is fucking here, thanks to his wife. So that answer's your question." Peter walked over to Jasper to greet him, ignoring Charlotte.

"Sugar..." Her eyes pleading.

"Oh no. Don't you Sugar me and think it's going to make this all better. You have put all of us in danger Char. Damn! Why couldn't you just learn patience? Now we are stuck here until who knows when. You could have gotten yourself killed! Did you ever think about that ? Did you? Did you?"

Jasper began to calm Peter and Peter shot him an annoyed look. "I have a right to be angry at my mate, Major. What she did was reckless and stupid."

Charlotte opened her mouth to say something, but then shut it.

"I'm not disagreeing, Peter. But now is not the time to air your grievances. We need to find out more about what they want."

"What they want? Simple, they want the same thing they have always wanted. Control and Power. You and Bella are a means to an end."

Jasper knew that Peter was in a particularly foul mood, not that he blamed him. "Yes, that much I am aware of. Question is a means to an end for what?"

Peter leaned against the wall, banging his head against it. "Damn if I fucking know."

"Have either of you learned anything thus far?"

His friend closed his eyes. "You would have to ask her. I just got here a couple of hours before you did, so I have had precious little time to much investigation. I have been spending the bulk majority of the time, arguing with this one over here."

Jasper knew his friend better then Charlotte almost. And what Peter needed, now that he knew that Charlotte was safe, was some time to cool off or else this would quickly escalate out of control and they did not have time for lover's spats. "Well, it's going to do no good if the four of us are standing around. Peter, why don't you take Bella and explore? See what you can find."

Bella moved from the bookshelf to Jasper understanding what he was trying to accomplish. The tension in the room was thick. "And what will you do?"

"I am going to talk with Charlotte, see what she knows and try to figure out what the Volturi are up to."

She nodded, looking as if she wanted to kiss him, but did nothing. "Okay." She turned to Peter, grabbing his arm, leading him out. "Let's see what we can find out. I remember vaguely some of the layout when I was here as a human..."

Charlotte stayed in the room, standing in silence for a few minutes after Peter was gone. Jasper strode over to her. Charlotte may have been composed on the outside, but he could feel her true emotions, and Charlotte had a myriad of them being thrown at him. He slipped an arm around her shoulders. "Are you going to be alright, Char?"

Char then sniffled, something that Jasper had only heard her do three times in all their years they had known each other."He is really angry with me. It's been years since he has been this mad, Jasper. I really did it this time and honestly, I can't blame him one bit. Are you angry with me too?"

He squeezed her shoulder. "Char, what you did was stupid, irresponsible, and reckless. Peter was right. You should have waited. But I'm not mad at you. I agreed to come here, after all. I know your heart was in the right place."

Jasper felt for her as sorrow and guilt overtook her. Charlotte sniffled. "I was doing it to help both you and Bella. You must see that." Charlotte walked over to a set of french doors that led out to a small balcony. She leaned precariously over the rail for a minute, looking out at the interior garden, staring at nothing. Her voice got quiet. "You are my family. I love you like my brother. Besides Peter, your happiness is the most important to me in this life."

Jasper loved Charlotte like a sister as well. "I know you were doing what you thought was right, what was helpful. And the information you discovered is very important to Bella and I. But the fact is that Volturi are not to be trifled with, Charlotte. We could all be in danger."

She shook her head. "No. I don't think we are in any danger, Jasper. If the Volturi meant us harm, you would have seen Aro and the others already."

"Perhaps you are right. There is really no way to know." Jasper let a sigh escape his lips.

"So, you and Bella finally..."

Jasper glanced sideways at her. He wondered briefly how much Bella had revealed to her. "Yes."

"You marked her."

"Yes."

"That is significant, Jasper."

Jasper looked at the night sky. "I know. The strength of my feelings took me by surprise."

"Not me." Jasper looked at her surprised. "I must say, it's about time. Are you happy with her?"

"I love her." He turned to his petite friend. "I more than love her. She is my mate, Char."

Charlotte smiled. "I knew there was something between the two of you the moment I laid eyes on the both of you in the same room. But you were both too stubborn to admit it."

Jasper couldn't ask this question to anyone else since he knew how close that Bella and Charlotte had become. "Do you think she loves me the same way I love her?"

Charlotte looked him straight in the eye. "And you are supposed to be the empath? Jasper... she loves you more."

"But Edward..."

"She feels a sense of loyalty and is conflicted, but has chosen you."

Bella had said as much. "You are right."

Charlotte stepped away from the rail. "Now the question is, what are going to tell Alice if we can get her memories back?"

a/n: Another chapter wrapped. Someone asked for a banner for my Story Slow and Steady. can anyone recommend a good program that I can download to create one? I am guessing Paint on my computer won't cut it. :)