Sorry so late, long AN to follow!
Ok- I meant to put this on last chapter but I forgot. So, I went back to research the books for Peter and Charlotte because I wanted to be accurate. Turns out, they are never described. At all. Everything we know and love about them is from Colliding Meteors by idreamofeddy. Thanks to Pandora's Hand and Adipocere for telling me where to give credit!
Twilight is the property of Stephanie Meyer.
Beta'd by the spectacular mynxi. Got my bandaids all packed, baby, I'm on my way to kiss it better. Thanks for working through your injuries- you're the best!
This chapter is dedicated to luv4jake and bstewsparkle.
Chapter Seventeen
JPOV
I lay next to Bella, enjoying the steady rhythm of her breathing as she slept. I had convinced her to stay with Carlisle and Esme for two more days to allow her body a chance to rest before driving back to Manhattan. However, last night she had informed me in no uncertain terms that she was ready to go home.
Carlisle, Esme and Emmett had all tried not to push her, but I could tell their constant hopeful expressions were annoying her. She was also frustrated by the way the Cullens persistebtly treated Peter like he was seconds away from draining her. Peter honestly found it amusing; he and I had stopped trying to convince them otherwise, but Bella found it insulting.
I gazed down at her sleeping face, noticing that the bruises were already fading to a yellow green color. She was still in significant pain, especially in the mornings, but she was moving around on her own for the most part. I was certain that being back at home and away from the constant surveillance of the Cullen family would speed her recovery.
I heard Peter speaking quietly into his cell phone from the next room. He had made several phone calls to other nomads he kept in touch with, but no one had been able to offer him any information on the vampire whisperer Bella had reminded him of. He still wouldn't give us any details, saying that unless he could track the guy down, it was pointless to get excited about what he might be able to do for Alice.
He had also been in frequent contact with Charlotte, updating her on Bella's appearance in my life and everything that had taken place while they were in Europe. With Jenks' eager and highly priced assistance, Char had purchased a large home in an isolated area of Montana. She was fully immersed in the necessary remodeling, hoping to finish it before the three of us joined her.
Bella's rapid heart rate clued me in that she was falling into another nightmare. "No," she moaned. "Don't leave me, please!" Her voice was quiet, but full of fear. I immediately shifted her into my lap and wrapped my arms around her, hoping I would be able to soothe her without waking her.
Her eyes remained closed, but she began to shake her head back and forth as she whimpered. "No, don't leave me alone," she begged.
"Wake up, Sweetheart," I murmured as I rubbed her arms. "You're not alone, I will never leave you." Her fingers clutched my shirt tightly as she struggled to wake up from the heavy sleep her pain meds induced. "That's it, Baby, come back to me," I said as she dragged her eyelids up to look at me, fear and confusion written on her face.
"I have you, Bella. It was just a bad dream," I whispered as she stared at me. "That's right, I'm here. I will never leave you." Her eyes finally started to clear as she became more alert. "Take your time and wake up, Sweetheart. Your pain pills just make you groggy." She closed her eyes and snuggled her face into my chest while I ran my fingers gently up and down her spine.
"That one was pretty bad, huh Bella?" I asked softly.
She nodded her head without looking up and whispered her answer into my shirt. "Yeah. I think maybe the medication is making the dreams more vivid." She looked up at me, her eyes still reflecting the fear from her dream. "I was all alone again," she began haltingly. "I was alone, and I just couldn't handle it. I don't know what I would ever do if I lost you."
I gazed down into her huge eyes, struggling to find words that would reassure her of my commitment to her without pushing her away. We both looked up as the bedroom door swung open and Peter sauntered into the room.
"Not gonna happen, Darlin', so don't go wastin' time worryin' 'bout it," he drawled out with a grin as he sat down on the edge of the bed. "He ain't gonna let ya go, and even if he did, ya got me now to go kick his ass for ya!"
I rolled my eyes at his deeply exaggerated accent, but my heart lifted when I felt Bella's answering giggle.
Peter grinned back at her before allowing his face to become serious. "I meant what I said when I called you my little sister, Bella. I'm in your life, regardless of whatever happens between you and this asshole."
She reached her tiny hand for his and smiled sweetly at him. "I know that, Peter, but it's nice to hear again just the same," she replied as she turned to face me. "Just like I know this asshole isn't going anywhere," she teased as she patted my thigh.
I smiled down at her before shooting another glare at Peter. "Good thing for you she's right. I'd hate for you to have to hurt yourself trying to kick my ass."
"No worries Major, I'll get ya one of these days. I've got nothin' but time," he answered with a lazy grin.
The sparkle in her eyes as she listened to our banter eased my concern that she still felt I would abandon her someday. All I could do was keep proving myself to her by staying around. She shifted next to me and I looked down at her expectantly. She smiled at me and my dead heart twitched at how beautiful she was as she looked up at me. "Let's blow this joint," she said firmly as she began to sit up.
" 'Nuff said, Darlin'," Peter answered as I helped her stand up, noticing that her movements were much less stiff this morning. She proceeded into the bathroom to take a shower while I gathered up the few odds and ends Bella had collected while we were here. Peter waited in the room with me, clearly trying to avoid being the first to face the Cullens to say goodbye.
Bella finished getting ready and joined us in the bedroom again. Peter grabbed our handful of stuff and I wrapped an arm around Bella as we walked out of the bedroom and down the stairs together. We entered the living room and found Carlisle, Esme, and Emmett all waiting for us.
Emmett stood up and walked over to Bella, glaring as he watched her take Peter's hand in hers. "You're leaving us already?" he asked mournfully, giving her big puppy dog eyes. His attempt at humor couldn't hide the jealousy I could feel he had toward Peter.
"Yep, time to go home," she answered casually. "Feel free to give us a call and come visit sometime," she added in a softer tone. "You can even bring Rose if she promises not to smother me with her affection."
Emmett smiled broadly and opened his arms, pleading with his eyes for a hug. "Damn puppy dog eyes," she muttered as she released our hands and stepped into Emmett's embrace. He carefully folded his arms around her and squeezed gently.
"Bet your ass we'll come," he answered gruffly as he let her go.
"Good," was her simple reply as she turned to Carlisle and Esme.
"Thank you for helping me," she said as she walked toward them. In a flash, Esme was on her feet and giving Bella a soft hug.
"I'm so glad you came to us, Dear," Esme answered. "I hope you'll come and visit again. I know we can't change the past, but I hope you'll let us earn a place back in your life."
Bella nodded her head as Esme released her, allowing Carlisle to take her place. "Take it easy for awhile, Bella," he instructed gently. "Follow up with the hematologist about your liver and call me if you need anything at all."
"Thanks, Carlisle, I will," she answered as she gave him a brief hug and moved back to me.
Esme surprised me when she walked over to speak to Peter. "Thank you for trying to find someone to help our Alice," she said softly.
Peter gave her a nod and a half smile. "I'll do my best, ma'am. We nomads are hard to track down, but I'm workin' on it. I'll be in touch if I turn anything up."
"We appreciate it very much, Peter," Carlisle said as he crossed the room to shake Peter's hand. He turned to face me. "I'm very proud of you, Jasper," he said quietly as he met my eyes. I felt the corresponding emotion from him as he clasped my hand. The words were nice to hear from this man that I admired and respected, but I was finally free of the pressing urge to please him. I simply nodded and shook his hand before turning to give Esme a hug.
Emmett walked up and grasped my shoulder. "Remember, man, you call me when it's time to make those fuckers pay for what they did to her." I shot an evil smile at him as I agreed.
"Wouldn't let you miss it, Em. Jenks is working on it as we speak, I'll update you soon."
Emmett moved over to face Peter, who had draped one arm around Bella as he watched us. "Don't get too comfy there, Red Eyes," he growled. "I will earn the right to call her my sister again, so don't think you're a shoe-in for the Best Big Brother prize."
Peter let out a loud laugh and clapped Emmett on the arm with his free hand. "Why, if that day ever comes, I'll be glad to welcome you into the family, Big Guy!" Emmett growled again as he took a small step forward. Peter just grinned like an asshole and held his ground.
Bella watched this transpire with a look of boredom. Finally, she cleared her throat. "Hello? If you two are done fighting over who gets to piss on my leg first, I think it's time to go," she snapped, glaring at both of them.
Emmett looked taken aback at her words and I felt a wave of embarrassment from him. "Sorry, Bella," he mumbled as he turned away from us. "Take good care of her," he said quietly as he left the room.
"We will," Peter and I answered in unison. Bella looked sad as she watched him walk away, but she didn't call after him. The three of us turned and walked out to the Porsche. Esme and Carlisle followed us out and watched as I helped Bella into the passenger seat. Peter was already relaxing in the spacious back seat, messing around with the climate controls and the DVD player. We waved goodbye as we pulled out of the driveway and headed for home.
"Peter, what about your car?" Bella asked abruptly as we finally reached the highway.
"Well, Sugar, I wasn't real attached to it, so I figured I'd leave it for Emmett to work out some aggression on. He'll probably be glad of the chance to destroy some of my property, even if it wasn't mine for very long," he said lazily.
Bella's face tightened as she processed his words and realized where he had obtained the car. "So it's not enough that you killed a guy, you stole his ride too?" she demanded in an irritated tone. "Then to top it off, you leave it for Emmett to get rid of it for you? Not cool."
"Now, Bella, the guy was up to no good when I crossed paths with him. I needed a ride after I was through with him, so I took his. He ain't missin' it none," Peter defended himself in an offended tone, winking at me through the rear view mirror. "Emmett will be fine. He'll work out his aggression beatin' the shit out of the car, and then Blondie can put a smile back on his face."
"Hmph," was her only response, but I noticed her lips were twitching into a smile. I was relieved that she had accepted Peter's lifestyle so easily. Their strange connection was an unexpected comfort to me as I planned the next move in taking down K2. I wouldn't be comfortable leaving Bella unprotected until the gang was neutralized, and the fact that she had welcomed him into her life would make it possible for me to hunt in peace.
Bella settled into her seat and I could tell she was getting drowsy. "Why don't you rest, Sweetheart? It'll be several hours 'til we get there."
She reached out and squeezed my hand. " 'Mkay," she said as she reclined the seat and closed her eyes. Peter pulled out his cell phone and began making more calls trying to track down his vampire shrink. He remained optimistic, despite the lack of progress. Truly nomadic vampires were hard to trace, so it would likely take some time before he finally contacted someone who knew the guy he was looking for.
I took the opportunity to call Jenks and check in on the progress with our plans to take out K2. He assured me that things were progressing smoothly. "Ask about Andy," Bella's sleepy voice interrupted as I prepared to hang up.
I glanced at her in surprise, unaware that she had been awake. "One more thing, Jenks. Bella wants to know how Andy's doing. I'm puttin' you on speaker so she can hear."
"Hello Miss Swan," Jenks' smooth voice rang out. "Well, he's physically fine, fully detoxed, and still pissed off. We've been keeping him at a house in a quiet area of the Hudson Valley. One of the guys on the cleanup team has a hunting cabin up there and he's used it as a safe house before. Andy's been demanding to speak to Miss Swan, and the guys think it might really help calm him down to talk to her. He's been rather difficult to deal with, especially since we don't have any timeline for how long we're going to hold him there."
Bella's heart sped up as she caught my hand in hers. I noticed it slowing down as our peace affected her, but she was still vibrating with anxiety. "Take me to him, Jasper, please?" she pleaded, her brown eyes locked onto mine. "If he's detoxed, this is our best chance to get him into treatment. Plus, being in rehab will keep him away from the gang."
I sighed as I smiled down at her. My preference would be to get Bella home and healed up before we dealt with Andy, but I knew she wouldn't want to leave him hanging like that. "Okay, Sweetheart. We'll make a detour." I took Jenks off speaker and got the address, quickly entering it into the GPS before ending the call. Fortunately, it wouldn't take us more than an hour out of the way.
Bella had relaxed back into her seat and Peter was still speaking rapidly into his own phone. He gave me a nod when I looked back at him, indicating he had overheard the change in plans. I was glad he would be with us. Andy's reaction to Bella and her hopes that he would go to rehab was hard to predict, and I knew Peter would help her handle it if it didn't go well.
He finally ended his call and leaned forward between the seats. "So we're stoppin' to see the pissed off drug addict?" he asked in a cheerful voice.
"Peter, Andy is not your entertainment," Bella scolded.
Peter fake pouted as he sat back in the seat. "Yes, Ma'am," he drawled out. "I expect a complete report of the fireworks when he refuses your help, though." His tone was his normal teasing, but I could hear the underlying warning for her in his words.
"You know, Sweetheart, Peter's right. Andy's pretty likely to tell us to go to Hell," I added gently. "I don't want you to be disappointed if this doesn't go real well."
Bella's face was sad as she answered with a sigh. "I know, but I still have to try. Friends keep trying, even when it looks hopeless."
"Bella, I know you'll never forget what he did for you, and neither will I. It's why you want so badly to help him, and it's why I'm so willing to do what I can for him as well. But at some point, you may have to accept that you can only help someone who's willing to take it."
"I know that too, Jasper," she repeated. "I feel like it's a fine line between being his unconditional friend, regardless of the choices he makes, and being his enabler. All I can do is offer him the chance to go to rehab courtesy of the Whitlock foundation," she continued dryly. "If he doesn't take us up on it, I'm done with him until he accepts help."
"I sure hope it doesn't come to that, Sweets," I said softly. "But I'm glad to hear you say that. There's a big part of me that holds him responsible for what happened to you, and I'll feel better knowing you won't let him be a part of your life unless he changes his."
Her jaw tightened, and I hoped I hadn't crossed the line with her. I knew I had no right to tell her who her friends were or who she could see, but the bruises that still marred her skin gave me the resolution to encourage her to be cautious with Andy.
I squeezed her hand gently with mine and waited for the fallout. Peter winked at me from the backseat, and I was pleasantly surprised when Bella finally answered. "Jasper, I promise I will do my best to make sure you never have to worry about me like that again. That includes staying away from Andy unless he gets clean."
Her voice was quiet, but I could feel the sincerity in her words. I was floored at the fact that she was willing to push aside her natural inclination to help Andy in order to accommodate my need to keep her safe. She had come a long way from the scared little girl who ran away from me when I bought her a new coat, and I was damn proud of her.
"I love you, Sweets," said softly. She opened her mouth to respond, but before she could speak, the ass hole in the back chimed in.
"Awww, so cute," he crooned loudly as he leaned forward. "They're weally in wuv, twue wuv!"
"Peter!" Bella snapped angrily. I braced myself for her to rip his head off for making fun of her, but again she surprised me. "You are a badass, human eating vampire. Stop butchering The Princess Bride!" she ordered brusquely before succumbing to laughter.
I gave Peter a grateful look, glad that the heavy moment was over. The time passed quickly as I listened to Bella and Peter give and take as he questioned her on her likes and dislikes. Before long, we were in one of the more remote areas of Orange County, bordering a state hunting preserve. There were simple cabins sprinkled along the one lane road we were driving on.
"Here we are," I said as I pulled the car onto a long gravel driveway. The cabin at the end of the drive was one of the more elaborate on the road, and I noticed that the windows were bulletproof glass and that the doors were reinforced steel.
I parked the car and got out to open Bella's door for her. Peter gave us a forlorn face from the back seat. "You're sure I can't come meet the junkie?" he whined. Bella shot him a nasty glare as I helped her down.
"Shut up and stay in the car, Petey," I ordered with a wry smile as I tossed the keys at him. He guffawed and pulled his cell phone out again as we walked up to the house. The door opened as we approached and I quickly shifted Bella behind me. "I'm Jasper Whitlock," I called out as I pushed a wave of calm toward the man standing in the doorway. "Jenks said you'd be expecting us."
"I'm Cooper," the grim looking man replied. He had a crew cut and was wearing faded fatigues. "Jenks called and said you were comin'. Come on in, he's waiting for you." We stepped into the house, which was a typical hunting lodge on the inside. Bella held my hand tightly as we walked into the living room, nodding at the three well armed men sitting inside.
"This way," Cooper said gruffly as he led us down a hallway to the bedrooms. "This room is bullet proof, he's totally safe here," he mentioned while opening the door. I raised an eyebrow at him as he backed away to let us pass him. "You're not payin' me enough to chit chat with the little pain in the ass," he mumbled, shooting me a sympathetic glance as he closed the door behind us.
It wasn't a large bedroom, but it was apparent that the team had attempted to make it comfortable for Andy. There was a table and chair in one corner and a flat screen T.V. was on one wall. There were books and magazines scattered over the floor as if they had been tossed around. Andy was lying propped up on the bed with his arms crossed behind his head.
He raised an eyebrow as he watched us step into the room. His face was a mask of arrogance, but I felt the rapid fire progression of his emotions as we approached him. Surprise and anger made a brief appearance, but as he took in Bella's fading bruises the predominant feelings he was emitting were guilt and affection.
He and Bella stared at each other in silence for a moment before Andy twisted his lips into a smirk and addressed us. "Well, well, company at last," he said snidely. "Not that the guys aren't full of shits and giggles, but it's always good to see familiar faces. I was beginning to think…"
"Shut up, Andy," Bella said calmly but loudly, cutting him off abruptly. "Cut the bullshit. I know you feel bad about what happened to me. I also know you're pissed off about being kept here and detoxed against your will. You can skip the snide comments and I won't hold my breath for an apology. What I want from you is your undivided attention for five minutes."
I smiled, crossed my arms and leaned back against the wall to enjoy the show. Andy's eyes widened in shock and he sat up in the bed.
"Here's the deal," Bella began again, her voice softer and more urgent. "You are my friend. You saved me when there was nothing in it for you. That's why I'm gonna do my damndest to save you, even when it's not in my best interest to be around you."
I felt a wave of shame underlying the deep sense of despair and self loathing he was already feeling.
"But," Bella continued. "As much as I want to help you, I can only give you what you'll take. So my offer is this: go to rehab on Jasper's dime. Get clean. Begin living your life again. Do this, or I can't be in your life. I hate that I have to do this, but I can't just stand by anymore while you kill yourself."
Andy sat silently, but the shame and self loathing he was emitting was strong enough to make me want to leave the room. Finally, he slumped back on the bed and forced the smirk back on his face. "Way under five minutes, Izz. Thanks for the intervention, but I think I'll pass."
He swung his face toward me and I felt his anger increasing. "So now that that's cleared up, when can I get the fuck out of here?"
I kept my relaxed pose as I answered. "Well, Andy, seeing as how we expended quite an effort to save your ass from the sick fucks you hang out with, you're gonna be a guest here until we take them out and you're not a target anymore."
"You can't just keep me here against my will!" he shouted as he stood up.
I stood my ground and kept my tone even. "Can and will, son. See, the only reason she got hurt was because she knew you. I have a big problem with that, so until they aren't a threat to her, you're my guest. I know you're pissed about it, but unless you want to take it up with the guys holding guns out there, there's not much you can do about it."
Bella was staring fixedly at him. "Be brave, Andy. I know you loved Will very much, but this isn't the way to remember what you guys shared. Be brave and get better. Please?" Desperation filled her voice and I realized she was making her final stand.
"Nosy little bitch," he snarled as he realized she knew about the accident that robbed him of his family and lover. "You don't know shit. If I can't leave, you guys get the fuck out!"
Bella flinched at his words and I forced myself not to growl at him for hurting her. "And we're done," I said as I moved from the wall and offered my hand to Bella. She took it quickly, her sadness apparent on her face. My phone buzzed and looked down to see Jenks' number. I answered the call and listened intently to Jenks. Bella watched in confusion as a smile crossed my face.
I hung up the phone and listened to the sound of the front door opening. A new human scent wafted in as footsteps came closer to the bedroom we were in. The bedroom door opened and Andy looked up before standing up in shock as he took in the tiny figure walking toward him.
"Gran?" he whispered, his face growing pale as he sat back down.
"Yes, Andrew. I've come to make you see sense and let this man help you," she said primly as she stood in front of him. She reached down and gently cupped his face in one hand. "We can't bring them back, Andrew, but we can honor their memories with our own lives. This isn't what any of them would want for you."
Andy's face crumpled as sobs wracked his body. His grandmother wrapped her arms around him and began to rock him. Bella and I shared a glance before quietly walking out of the room. We made our way out to the living room, where the team members were all waiting with expectant looks.
I shrugged apologetically at them. "We didn't have any luck, but maybe his Gran will do the trick." Bella and I sat down on the couch, and we all watched the bedroom door. I was listening in to the conversation, and gave Bella a reassuring squeeze when I heard Andy agree to seek treatment.
The bedroom door opened, and Andy's grandmother walked out to the living room. "He's agreed to get help," she announced quietly, her face tired but relieved. She turned to face me. "Mr. Jenks and I had discussed a place that's near my home in Maine," she suggested hesitantly.
"Of course. Just let Jenks know your preference and he'll make all the arrangements," I assured her. "We'll have a security detail assigned to him until we neutralize the people who are threatening him."
"You are a very kind man. Thank you both for helping him." She turned to Bella. "He'd like to speak with you again, if you're willing after his poor behavior."
Bella smiled at the formal words. "Of course I'll see him," she murmured as she stood up and walked into the bedroom. Minutes later she rejoined us, her calm smile a testament to the sincere apology Andy had given her in the room. We said goodbye to Andy's grandmother and the guards and headed out the door.
After exiting the house, I pulled Bella close to me for a hug. "You okay?" I asked quietly as I pressed a kiss to the top of her head.
"Yeah," she said quietly. "That sucked, but I'm just glad his grandmother got through to him." She looked up and gave me a weak smile. "Now, let's go home."
"You got it, Sweets," I said as I helped her into the car. I started the car and drove back down the long driveway.
"So how'd it go, Kids?" Peter asked cheerfully. "Is he gonna get clean, or do I have a potential meal?" he asked, licking his lips.
"Shut up, Peter," I growled, dreading Bella's reaction to his threat to eat her friend. I was shocked when I heard her snort of laughter. We filled him in on Andy's decision and he pouted playfully at the news. Bella yawned even as she laughed at Peter's nonsense.
"Get some rest, Baby," I ordered gently as she rolled her eyes at me. She settled herself back into the seat and closed her eyes. Within minutes, her breathing evened out as she drifted to sleep.
"Are we there yet?" Peter chirped from the back seat as we pulled back onto the highway.
"Shut up, you dumb fuck," I muttered quietly. "You'll wake her up."
"Yes, Dad," he sulked playfully before picking up his phone and dialing quickly. I heard Char's voice answer him, and I tuned their conversation out as I drove. "Char sends her love," he finally said to me after hanging up. "She's gonna start makin' calls about our whisperer. Sooner or later, we'll track down someone who's seen him in the last decade."
"Thanks, Peter. I know you two were never fans of Alice. It means a lot that you're trying to help her now."
"She never meant any harm, Jasper. Charlotte and I just didn't like how much she tried to change you is all. I wouldn't wish what she's goin' through on anyone, so I'll be glad if I can find the guy to help her."
We finished the drive in comfortable silence as Bella slept peacefully. I pulled the car into the garage and opened Bella's door. "Wake up, Sleeping Beauty," I said softly as I unbuckled her seatbelt. "We're home."
She opened her eyes and smiled as I lifted her gently out of the seat. She winced as I moved her and I murmured an apology. "Just stiff from sleeping sitting up, Jasper. It's okay," she teased.
"Let's get you inside, Sweetheart." I carried her quickly into the building and to the elevator as Peter followed us with the bag of Bella's stuff. I opened the door to my apartment and sighed with relief as the smells of home wrapped around me.
"God, it's good to be home," Bella whispered as I carried her to the sofa and set her down. I stood up to face Peter who was waiting with the bag and Bella's backpack.
"This was in the car too, so I grabbed it," he explained as he offered the backpack to me.
"Wow, I thought it was gone for good, Jasper," she said excitedly as she rooted around inside.
"I grabbed it from the bookstore when I went there to look for you."
"Thanks," she said. "I don't have much in it, but I'd miss this thing if it was gone." She tossed it onto the coffee table and a pack of cigarettes spilled out of the outer pocket.
Peter swooped in on them and picked them up, pointing a finger at Bella. "Now young lady, don't you know these things are bad for you," he teased.
Bella looked surprised for a minute before shrugging her shoulders. "You can pitch them, Peter. I don't even know when the last time I smoked was." She looked up at me and smiled. "I have a hot body guard now, so I don't need to hide from you vampires anymore."
I was surprised when I realized she was right. I hadn't even noticed when she stopped smoking, it had been so gradual. I smiled back, realizing this was a concrete sign of her trust in me. She had given up another layer of her defense system, trusting me to take care of her.
Peter walked into the kitchen and threw the pack away before coming back and tossing a white plastic bag in Bella's lap. "This was in the car too," he said innocently, although I could feel the mischief pouring off of him.
I groaned audibly as Bella opened the Apple store bag. I hadn't given my extravagant purchases a thought since I had bought them. "Jasper Whitlock, how much did you spend?" she shrieked as she pulled out box after box.
"I don't suppose the whole saving you from Alex thing gets me off the hook?" I asked hopefully as I fought to hold back a grin.
"You are in sooo much trouble," Bella warned as she put the boxes aside and carefully stood up. "Now come help me get a good night's sleep so I can think up a suitable way to torture you."
"Yes ma'am," I sighed dutifully as I scooped her up and carried her to our bed, grateful for the fact that she was safe at home with me at last.
BPOV
Been running from these feelings for so long
Telling my heart I didn't need you
Pretending I was better off alone
But I know that it's just a lie
So afraid to take a chance again
So afraid of what I'd feel inside
Oh, I need to be next to you [Need to be next to you]
Oh, I, oh, I
I need to share every breath with you [share every breath with you]
Oh, I, oh, I
I need to know I can see your smile each morning
Look into your eyes each night
For the rest of my life
Here with you, near with you
Oh, I
I need to be next to you
Need to be... next to you
Right here with you is right where I belong
I'll lose my mind if I can't see you
Without you there is nothing in this life
That would make life worth living for
I can't bear the thought of you not there
I can't fight what I feel anymore
From Need to Be Next to You by Leigh Nash
I hummed to myself as I soaked in the garden tub. It was late afternoon and Jasper was out hunting. Peter was on the phone with some nomad or another trying to track down the elusive vampire whisperer, so I had decided to grab some alone time.
In the two weeks since we'd been home Jasper had insisted that either he or Peter be with me at all times. I treasured every second I spent with Jasper and I was having a blast getting to know Peter, but I was starting to feel a little smothered. Fortunately, I had overheard Jasper telling Peter that the setup for taking K2 down was nearly finished and that D-day could be as soon as next week.
I didn't have an ounce of compassion for the members of the gang, but I was worried about how Jasper would handle being in the midst of violence again. It was bound to bring up bad memories, but I was really concerned that it would cause his guilt to spike again. I pushed that thought aside, reluctant to dwell on my worries about Jasper's plans.
My thoughts drifted to Madeline and a tear drifted slowly from one eye. Jasper and I had held a small memorial service for her last week. She had no surviving family members, but it had been heartwarming to see the number of customers who had stopped to pay their respects.
Jasper had insisted I wear a disguise to avoid being recognized since the police were still investigating Madeline's murder. Fortunately, I hadn't made much of an impression on the customers in my short time there, and no one mentioned concerns about the whereabouts of the coffee girl.
I grabbed my puff and poured some green tea scented body wash into it, working it into a thick lather. I savored the sensation as I washed my breasts and abdomen, but I forced myself not to get carried away, remembering that Peter was just in the next room. I was almost entirely recovered from Tony's attack, but Jasper was still reluctant to resume our sex life, certain that he would somehow damage me again.
My bruises were all but faded away and the pain in my ribs was gradually improving. I was still stiff when I tried to move too quickly, but I was pretty comfortable once I got moving and I hadn't had to take a pain pill for several days. My follow up appointment with the hematologist had gone well. The bruise on my liver was small and unlikely to cause further damage as long as I avoided any trauma to my abdomen in the future.
I had gone so far as to ask the doctor if I could have sex yet, and she assured me that as long as it wasn't painful, it was fine. Jasper was unmoved and just rolled his eyes at me. "She doesn't know you're having sex with a vampire, Bella," he had said after we left the office.
Later that day, after some intense physical and verbal coaxing, Jasper had finally relented and started fingering me. It went well until I twisted my hips too hard trying to get more friction, causing me to wince in a little pain. Jasper noticed and stopped immediately, despite my protests.
Since that day, I'd been unable to entice him into trying again. I attempted pleading and pouting, but neither had been effective, much to Peter's amusement. If I heard one more comment about feeling "tense" or "frustrated" from him, I was ready to call the Volturi and feed them a story about Peter walking around in all his sparkly glory in front of humans.
Fucker, I thought to myself as I finished washing and rinsed off. Can't even take matters into my own hands with his nosy ass waiting out there. I drained the tub and stood up to towel off, pleased when I realized it didn't really hurt to stand up anymore. I dressed in yoga pants and a long sleeved T before I blew my hair dry.
Steeling myself for Peter's sense of humor, I opened the bedroom door and walked out to the living room. Peter was sprawled on the couch, his booted feet propped on the coffee table as he watched a rerun of Jersey Shore. Rolling my eyes, I sat down beside him.
"These are the people you should consider for your next meal," I said dryly.
He turned to look at me with outraged eyes. "No way!" he said dramatically as he gave a fist pump. "America needs these people!"
"Yeah, needs them to go away," I insisted as I settled into the couch to watch the train wreck. I glanced at Peter, quietly snickering at his absorbed expression while he watched the nonsense on TV. I was learning that Peter was a vampire of many contradictions. He tended to act like everything was a big joke, but the reality was that he didn't miss a thing that went on around him.
He loved to tease, and he danced along the line of what I would tolerate without ever quite crossing it. He was also capable of great kindness and empathy. He had been so compassionate towards me when Jasper left to hunt after Madeline's memorial service. Peter had popped popcorn and watched 80's chick flicks with me until Jasper returned. It seemed silly, but if he hadn't been there, I would have been swamped by guilt and sadness over Madeline's murder.
He had been remarkably dedicated to hunting down his vampire "therapist". He hadn't reached anyone who had any information yet, but he seemed quite confident of his eventual success. I hoped it was sooner rather than later. The thought of Alice's condition weighed heavily on my mind, and I could only imagine how it was affecting Jasper.
I face palmed after a particularly stupid Snooki moment. "You know, I don't understand why the normal people of New Jersey don't assassinate these clowns. They give Jersey a bad name. Did you know that only one of 'em is even from New Jersey? The others are all New Yorkers."
Peter leered at me and I knew the teasing was about to commence. "Damn, Bella. Looks like you're channeling your sexual frustration into defending the fine state of New Jersey! The Garden State thanks you," he chuckled.
"Fuck you," I muttered darkly as I crossed my arms.
"You wish, Darlin'," he smirked.
"Um, no, I really don't, Peter," I sneered. "Now shut up about the lack of sex, or I'll call Charlotte on you again!"
"Anything but that, Bella!" he yelled dramatically. "The last time you told on me, she threatened to cut off my balls and…"
"Whoa, whoa, whoa!" I interrupted. "I don't want to know about anything Charlotte plans to do to your boys, Peter. Just back off a little and we're good."
"Sure thing," he agreed amicably. And with that, we were cool again. I knew the peace would be short lived, as Peter couldn't help himself when an opportunity to tease presented itself, but I would take what I could get.
I heard the door open, so I stood up to meet Jasper as he walked inside. "I missed you," I sighed into his chest as he wrapped his arms around me. He was wearing my favorite black leather jacket and his blonde hair hung in damp curls from the rain outside.
"You'll get all wet," he chided as he tried to back away from me.
"Too late," Peter sang out from the sofa.
I ignored him completely as I dug Jasper's cell phone out of his jacket pocket. He watched me with a confused expression as I dialed.
"Bella, no wait!" Peter begged as he crossed the room at vampire speed.
"Too late," I sneered back at him. I turned into Jasper's protective arms as Peter attempted to snatch the phone away. Jasper gave a little growl and turned me away from Peter.
Char answered, expecting Jasper. "It's me again," I said without preamble.
"Did that son of a bitch open his mouth again?" she demanded in an incredulous tone.
"Yep," I answered, popping the p.
"Put him on," she ordered brusquely. I grinned evilly and tossed the phone to Peter, who caught it. He listened to the phone for a minute, his face falling as he repeated "Yes, Char," about twenty five times before ending the call and handing the phone back to Jasper. Judging from Jasper's smile, I figured Char must have something pretty grim planned for Peter when they finally reunited.
Peter looked glum as he walked toward the door. "I'm just gonna take a walk, call her back, maybe get a bite," he said with a wink. "Be back later."
I waved cheerfully at him. "Enjoy your new asshole installation, Petey!" He flipped me off with a smile and a wink and walked out the door.
I relaxed into Jasper's chest, enjoying the sensation of him chuckling. "What am I gonna do with you kids?" he sighed. "Can't leave you alone for a minute."
"He started it," I whined playfully, leaning up to press a kiss against his perfect marble lips. I moaned when he allowed me to slip my tongue into his mouth. Pressing every inch of my body against his I ran my hands down his back and grabbed his ass.
"Before you get carried away," he murmured into my mouth. I groaned in frustration and backed away from him.
"Jasper, enough. I feel fine, I want sex, and if you're not interested, then go find something to occupy yourself while I take care of things for myself." I glared at him and poked my finger against his hard chest to emphasize the point.
He smiled as he answered. "Okay, Bella, you win, we'll try again, as long as it's completely painless for you," he warned, raising an eyebrow. "But, there's something I've been wanting to show you for awhile now, and I thought this would be a good time, since Peter will be busy for a few hours."
Curiosity piqued in me as I stepped back and watched him pull a large box out of one of the hall closets. He walked over to the couch, so I followed him, unable to imagine what crazy thing he had purchased now.
"I was planning on giving this to you the day you were taken," he said quietly as he opened the box lid. He reached out and took my hand, pulling me to sit in front of him.
"What is it?" I asked nervously as I reached in. My fingers hit cool glass and I picked up the first object I touched. I gasped as I took in what lay in my hands. The tears pricked my eyes and I swiped them away absently, not wanting anything to interfere with my ability to look at the last family portrait Charlie, Renee and I had had taken before their divorce.
Jasper leaned forward and pressed a kiss to the back of my neck as I carefully placed the picture frame on the coffee table and moved on to the next item. The entire box was full of personal mementos retrieved from the Forks house. Charlie had kept everything, photos, trophies, ribbons, and almost all of it was in this box.
"How?" I whispered breathlessly as I touched the reminders of my life before it had been shattered.
"One of Jenks' guys approached him and offered to get this out of the evidence room for the right price," Jasper answered quietly.
I shifted myself to look up into his beautiful amber eyes. I fought my tears as I tried to thank him. "There just aren't words, Jasper," I began. "Thank you for giving me my past back."
"You're welcome, Sweetheart," he answered as he held me close. We sat quietly for a minute before I returned to the task of looking through the box. The next hour was spent in laughter and happy tears as I told Jasper the stories behind the mementos I was looking at. I shared the stories of my first missing tooth, my disastrous ballet recital, my first report card, and many other memories as the day faded into evening.
Finally, I carefully placed each picture and album back into the box. Jasper had relaxed back onto the couch and I climbed onto his lap. I was completely overwhelmed by the strength of the love I was feeling for him. Sharing the happier moments of my past with him had further connected me to him and I was literally aching to show him how I was feeling.
I looked into his eyes as I watched a sweet little smile cross his lips. I closed my eyes for a second and tried to relax myself enough for him to pick up my feelings. I watched his smile widen as he brought a hand up to cup my face. Suddenly, I felt an intense wave of absolute love as he projected his emotions to me.
The sensation was enough to make me gasp, and in that moment, something clicked inside of me. I was sitting in the lap of the man who was my forever. I had spent so much time avoiding thoughts about my future with Jasper, trying to protect myself from being hurt again, but I was done with that now. There was no point in wasting another second pretending that I didn't want to be by Jasper's side for eternity.
Jasper had been so patient with me, never bringing up any type of commitment, let alone the idea of changing me, but I hoped it was something he thought about. I fought a wave of nervousness down, and he frowned slightly as he felt it. Grasping both of his hands in mine, I opened my mouth and let the words out.
"I want to spend forever with you, Jasper Whitlock." His eyes widened momentarily, but I put a finger over his mouth before he could speak. "I want you to change me, and I want to spend the rest of eternity loving you. I don't care about my soul, I only need you." He stared at me silently, and I began to worry that he was reluctant to change me. "Please?" I whispered. "I love you so much, Jasper. I don't think changing me will damage my soul, but even if it does, I want it anyway. I want to be together with you in every way. I want to be your equal, your true partner. Please tell me you'll give me forever with you."
His face softened as he registered my apprehension. "Oh my Bella," he breathed out. "Yes, I want forever with you. I want nothing more than to spend eternity with you beside me." I exhaled in relief, slumping forward against his chest. "As for your soul," he began again when I finally looked back up at him. "I never bought into Edward's line of thought. The way I see it, every living thing on this earth is God's own creation, including vampires. I believe I have a soul, but even if I didn't, I would change you anyway. The idea of letting you slip away from me is just not something I can exist with. We belong together, Bella, and that means you have to live with me forever."
Unable to restrain myself for another second, I pressed my mouth to his, trying to show him with my mouth what my heart was feeling inside. He returned my kisses and I shifted myself to straddle him better on the couch, moaning as his hard dick lined up against my center. The ache I had been fighting for the last two weeks was becoming unbearable inside, and I poured my need into the kisses I gave him.
"Let's go to the bedroom, Jasper," I begged. "I need you, please be with me tonight." His eyes darkened with passion and the room around me blurred as he moved us into the bedroom and onto the bed using vampire speed. I was on my back as he hovered over me, his beautiful arms braced on either side of me as he looked down.
"One condition now, Sweets," he warned in a low, honeyed voice. "The thing is…I refuse to do something that causes you pain." I started to protest, but he pushed a finger against my lips. "Not up for debate, Bella. I just can't stand to hurt you. So…" he drawled out with a sexy smile, "that means you're gonna have to hold real still while we do this."
My heart soared as I realized he was willing to move forward, and that my need to physically connect with him would finally be fulfilled. His finger still blocked my lips, so I just nodded my head eagerly in agreement.
"I mean it, Bella," he continued sternly. "No thrusting, no writhing, no moving a muscle until I feel you come." The combination of his voice and his words had me literally dripping into my panties, and I moaned tightly behind his finger. "If you move, I stop, end of story. Do you still wanna go on?" he asked, smirking at me since he already knew my answer.
"Please," I breathed out as he lifted his finger from my lips.
"Good," he answered with a wink. His expression became stern again as he moved my arms up to the pillow. "Now, hands behind your head." I complied immediately, incredibly turned on by the way he was ordering me around. "Is that comfortable?" he asked intently. I nodded my head affirmatively. "If anything hurts or is even uncomfortable, you say 'stop'. I nodded again, desperate for him to start touching me.
Seconds later, I was naked and the shredded remains of my clothes were flung across the room. I gasped in surprise, and Jasper leaned down to capture my mouth with his. His kiss was gentle but firm as his tongue claimed possession of my mouth. I clenched my hands together, reminding myself not to squirm as anticipatory waves of pleasure skittered down my body.
Thankfully, he didn't press my control and moved his mouth down to capture a nipple, sucking fiercely as he palmed the other breast. "Unnnhh," I sighed as I closed my eyes and forced my body to remain relaxed. He increased the suction on my nipple as he began pinching the other one rhythmically. It felt like a direct line from my tits to my clit and I moaned louder.
"Be good," he warned in a whisper around my breast. I opened my eyes and nodded, making sure my body remained pliant under his hands. "So perfect," he said softly as he moved one hand to trace along my ribcage and abdomen. "I've missed touching your warm little body so much, Bella," he said casually as he swept one hand down my side and behind me to cup my ass cheek. The sight of his hands moving around my body heightened my desire until it was almost painful deep inside me.
I whimpered as he continued to put his hands everywhere except where I desperately needed them. "Good girl," he murmured as he traced my bellybutton. "I didn't think you'd be able to handle this, Sweetheart." His cold finger moved downward and flirted with my folds before running quickly down my inner thigh. "But," he continued, "you're impressin' me with your dedication."
I moaned desperately as he moved his finger back up to my folds, dragging them through the moisture that had gathered there. "Then again, I can tell how bad you want to come, so I guess I'm not surprised," he said as he slowly inserted his finger inside my center before stopping.
"Oh God, Jasper, please?" I begged as he slowly withdrew from me to trace around my clit. Every neuron inside my sexually deprived body was screaming at me to rub that finger for the friction that would relieve me. I took a deep breath and moaned again, channeling my desire to move into the sound I was making.
"What a good girl," he praised me as he bent both of my knees, opening my dripping center fully before penetrating me slowly with three fingers. I panted desperately as the sensation of finally being filled washed over me. "Is that good, Baby?" he whispered, an evil glint in his eye as he began to move his fingers slowly in and out of me.
"So good, Jasper," I gasped. "Please, I need it so bad." A small part of my brain protested that I shouldn't be begging, but the ninety-nine percent focused on the pleasure I was feeling quickly shut that part up.
He continued moving his fingers at an achingly slow pace before abruptly withdrawing them. I groaned in protest, fighting every cell in my body not to move closer to him. In a flash, his own clothes were discarded, and he stood before me naked. I took a moment to eye fuck him, taking in his chiseled chest and abs before zeroing in on his hard and dripping dick.
He reached down and grabbed himself, pumping up and down rapidly as he watched me stare at him. "I think you've proven that you're capable of being good, haven't you? Are you ready for your reward?" he asked as he climbed back onto the bed and moved over me.
"Yes, please?" I begged as he reached down and rubbed the tip of his dick across my entrance. The thought of him stopping was the only thing holding me back from thrusting myself up against him.
"Ooo, close call," he chided as he began to push slowly into me. "Is this what you want?" he asked, his eyes burning into mine as he froze inside me.
"Ohmygod, yes, Jasper, I want your dick, so bad," I gasped out as he finally slid fully home inside of me.
"Ahh, Bella, that feels so fucking good," he whispered into my ear as he leaned fully over me, his arms still taking all of his weight. The feeling of his cold length sheathed inside of me had me teetering on the edge of orgasm, and I closed my eyes to focus on the tingle that was forming low in my body.
He slid himself in and out slowly and gently. I concentrated on my breathing, struggling against my body's desire to thrust against him. "You're doin' so good," Jasper crooned into my ear. "I can feel how bad you want to move that hot little pussy against my dick." I moaned and tensed, almost vibrating with need.
He pressed his mouth to mine and I opened to let his tongue fill my mouth. The combination of his words and the way he was filling me was bringing me close to the edge, and I could feel the walls of my core beginning to vibrate.
"That's right, Baby," he breathed into my ear. "I can feel it, you're so ready to come." Pleasure began to wash over me in waves and I moaned his name. "That's right Bella, let it go," he ordered sternly as he picked up the speed of his thrusts ever so slightly. He hit me just right inside and I screamed as my orgasm burst over me. I felt myself clench around him and he moaned back at me.
"So tight, so hot," he panted into my ear. "God, Bella, fuck!" he shouted as I felt his cold dick explode inside of me. The pleasure seemed to go on and on before I finally started to come down from the high. Every muscle in my body was trembling with the after effects of my release and I groaned as I moved my arms from behind my head.
Jasper withdrew from me and rolled to his side before pressing a soft kiss to my lips. "Feel better?" he asked casually with a smirk as he gently grabbed one of my hands to kiss my palm.
"Hottest sex ever," I stated vehemently as I rolled myself slightly on top of him. "You're super sexy when you're bossy in bed, and I loved the dirty talk Jasper."
He sat up and kissed me before he stood. "I'll keep that in mind, Little Girl," he teased with a wink. He zipped into the bathroom and returned with a towel. We cleaned up, but neither of us dressed as we lay back down together.
"I love you so much, Jasper Whitlock," I whispered as I felt drowsiness begin to overtake me. "Let's never go that long without having sex again."
"Your wish is my command," he chuckled as he tucked the covers around me. I drifted into sleep and dreamed happy dreams about eternity with the scarred angel who held me.
Long AN:
Okay, sorry for the long wait. I was out of town for the 4th, it was my birthday, and I was also really blocked with this chapter. On that note, huge thanks to luv4jake and bstewsparkle who have both been leaving awesome reviews as they read earlier chapters. These two really kept me motivated to keep plugging away at it, even when it wasn't going well.
The song lyrics were suggested by llianagrielle, who thought they were perfect for Bella and Jasper. Thank you baby! I had fun incorporating it, so if you have a song suggestion, let me know, I'll see if I can make it work!
My Sweet MM: thank you for your constant encouragement when I thought I would never finish it. In gratitude, I unpacked the playroom for you. We're good to go, just say the word! ;*
Thank you again to everyone who is reading, reviewing, alerting etc. Thanks also to the people who have added A Moment to their C2s! I'm honored by the company I'm sharing!
Love you all!
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