CHAPTER SEVEN

THE TRUTH

I hung out with the Cullens by our cars when I heard a loud noise. We all looked over to see Bella pull up in her red Chevy truck. I smiled, ready to walk over, when I felt Jasper freeze. I looked over and saw that all of them froze. But Edward looked pissed off.

Then I noticed their eyes.

They were black. Pitch black. I had seen this before. The whole eye color swap thing. It was just another suspicious thing about the people I begun to look to as family. But I told Jasper to take his time in telling me whatever it was that they were hiding.

Bella slipped out of her car and right into a puddle, making some people snicker.

I saw Edward clench his fists and then take off into the opposite direction. I looked up at Jasper, pulling his black eyes away from Bella, "What's wrong?"

Jasper sighed loudly, closing his eyes, "Heather..." he looked like he was in pain. He rested his forehead on mine, "I can't tell you yet."

I tried to be understanding, "Alright. But please... if there's anything I can do.. to help or something. Tell me. I'm gonna go help Bella out and show her around. I'll see you in class alright?"

He nodded and I turned to leave but then he grabbed my hand and tugged me back. "You're not mad at me, are you?"

I shook my head sincerely, "Of course not. But I told Charlie I'd help Bella out since I was the new girl once." I kissed him on the cheek and walked over to where Bella was walking. "Hey new girl."

She looked over at me, with one ear bud in, and blushed, "Hey."

A few kids around said hi. I said hi to some of the people I recognized. I looked at Bella as we walked, "What classes you got?"

I looked at her time table and tsk'd, "Sorry. You don't have any classes with me. But Edward's in your bio class."

"Who's Edward?" Bella asked.

"My boyfriend's brother," I answered.

Just then Eric came up to us, "You're Isabella Swan, the new new girl. Hi," he put out his hand, "I'm Eric. The eyes and ears of this place. Anything you need. Tour guide, lunch date, shoulder to cry on."

I laughed lightly as Bella flushed. Eric had done the same to me when I started school here. A new person in a small town like Forks was a big deal to them.

"I'm kind of the 'suffer in silence' type," Bella urged.

Eric just smiled widely, "Good headline for your feature, I'm on the paper, and you're news, baby, front page. Both of you. I mean... two new girls in one year... I can just see it."

I gave Eric a look, "Eric..."

Bella practically panicked, "No I'm not... – please don't – seriously, I'm... not at all-"

Eric put out his hands with a 'suave' smile, "Who, chillax. No feature."

Bella looked relieved before she looked at me, "Do you know Mr. Varner's class?"

I pointed down a hallway we were passing, "Can't walk you though. My history class is the other way."

Eric grinned and tugged her elbow. I called after her, "Meet me at lunch if you need me."

I got to History with no problems and greeted Mr. Garcia at the door. He gave me the same grimace he always did as I sat by Jasper. For some reason Jessica Tanner was in my seat, leaving hers by Jasper vacant. I wasn't complaining though.

I gave Jasper a kiss on the cheek, "Did you survive this morning without me?"

"No, I'm dead," Jasper said in all serious.

But I laughed at his 'joke' anyway and got by book out for class. Class was uneventful. But I couldn't fight the tingles that shot up my arm when Jasper clasped my hand in his own under our desks. He lightly played with my fingers.

I side glanced at him, seeing his grin. I smiled to myself before facing front and pretending to pay attention.

Lunch came by fast. I walked out of class with my friend Hannah before leaving her to meet up with the Cullens outside the cafeteria. They were all waiting for me a ways away from the door. Jasper smiled when he saw me and I gave him a little kiss.

Emmett slung his arm on Rose's shoulders and Jasper laced our fingers together. Alice chatted with me as we walked in.

THIRD PERSON POV

Bella's attention was riveted to the most astounding people she'd ever seen. Two guys, two girls... wait three. One girl with them was Heather. Other than her, they were all chalky pale, with purple shadows under their eyes. The doors swung open as they all entered, moving through the room with effortless grace and taking seats on the table furthest from Bella's.

Bella asked, "Who are they?"

Angela answered her, "The Cullens... and Heather Vincent."

Jessica leaned towards her, whispering – gossiping – quietly, "Doctor and Mrs. Cullen's foster kids. They all moved here from Alaska two years ago. And Heather moved here right before the school year started."

"They kind of keep to themselves," Angela put in.

"Because they're all together. Like, together together," Jessica revealed, "The blonde girl, Rosalie, and the big dark-haired guy, Emmett... their like a thing. I'm not even sure that's legal."

"Jess, they're not actually related," Angela told her.

Jessica huffed, "But they live together, it's weird. And the little dark-haired girl, Alice, she's really weird... she used to be with Jasper, the blonde who looks like he's in pain."

Bella looked confused, "But I thought he was with Heather."

Jessica rolled her eyes, "That girl moves here and steals Jasper right from under her."

Bella looked over and saw Heather and Alice chatting animatedly. They looked like good friends. Jasper looked at Heather with utter devotion as she smiled and talked to Alice about something riveting.

Bella's attention was brought back to the doors as one more guy walked through. He was lanky, with untidy, bronze colored hair. He was more boyish than the others, but most striking. "Who's he?"

Jessica grinned, "That's Edward Cullen." Edward suddenly looked over... as if he heard. But he couldn't have. He looked at Bella with utter confusion. Which confused Bella in turn.

"He's totally gorgeous, obviously. But apparently, no one here is good enough for him. Like I care. Anyway, don't waste your time."

Bella said unconvincingly, "Wasn't planning on it."

But Bella couldn't help sneaking another look over at their table...

HEATHER'S POV

After school Jasper was waiting outside my last class. Edward climbed into his Volvo with Emmett and Rose. Jasper led me to my car first and gave me a little kiss before he joined Alice in getting inside the Volvo. Bella was storming down some stairs, hurrying to her truck.

Edward sped out of the parking lot and Bella hurried to start her engine.

I wonder what's got them so riled up.

THIRD PERSON POV

A sirloin steak was set in front of Charlie. He shared a table with Charlie. Cora beamed at Bella as she set a plate of cod in front of her, "Can't get over how grown up you are. And so gorgeous."

Bella glanced at Charlie, who kept his eyes on his steak.

A bearded, hippy logger, Waylon Forge, appeared behind Cora and leaned over, "Remember me, honey? I was Santa one year."

Charlie looked up, "Waylon, she hasn't had a Christmas here since she was four."

Waylon grinned though, "Bet I made an impression, though."

"You always do," Charlie said.

"Let the girl eat her cod," Cora shooed Waylon away before smiling at Bella, "When you're done, I'll bring your favorite – berry cobbler. Remember? Your dad still has it. Every Thursday."

By the look on Bella's face, she obviously didn't remember, "That'd be great."

Just then the bell dinged as someone entered the diner. Bella and Charlie looked over to see Heather holding her little sister on her hip. Cora smiled widely and came around to hug the girls. She also handed them a to-go bag.

When Heather saw Bella and Charlie she smiled, saying a goodbye to Cora and walked over, "Hey guys."

Bianca smiled widely, "Hi!" She waved her little hand.

Bella smiled at the little girl and gave her a little wave back.

Heather smiled down at Bella, "How was your first day?"

Charlie grunted a bit, "Yeah, did you meet anyone?"

Bella shrugged, "A few people... do you know the Cullen family?"

Charlie looked at her sharply, "Are people talking about them again?"

Bella flushed, wishing she hadn't said anything, "No... well, a little."

Heather looked at her curiously, "What are they saying?"

But Charlie was already on a mini-rant, "-they're newcomers. We're lucky to have a surgeon like Dr. Cullen at our podunk hospital. Lucky his wife wanted to live in a small town. Lucky his kids aren't like a lot of the hell-raisers around here." He looked up at Heather, "You know, right?"

Heather nodded, a grim look on her face, "Don't listen to what anyone says, Bella. The Cullens are amazing people when you get to know them. Do you want me to introduce you?"

Bella shook her head, "I have.. one of them … in my bio class."

"Edward," Heather filled in.

Bella nodded, "I don't think he likes me very much."

Heather rolled her eyes, "It's not you Bella. Edward was already in a mood this morning before you arrived. Don't worry."

BACK TO HEATHER'S POV

When I parked in the parking lot the next morning, I noticed that Edward's Volvo wasn't there. In it's usual place was a big jeep. I recognized it as Emmett's.

Jasper was at my door in a flash, opening it up for me. I smiled at him before asking, "Why the change in transportation?"

"Edward took the Volvo. He's going to visit family in Alaska." Jasper told me.

"Huh," I said, "That's a little weird. He'll be missing school."

Jasper shrugged, "He wanted to go. Who are we to stop him?"

I allowed that, "I guess so. What are you doing this weekend?"

Jasper smiled down at me, and I noticed that his eyes were back to gold, "Hopefully something with you. Why don't you and Bianca come over?"

I smiled fondly, "Can I just say that it is great that you want to hang out with my kid sister?"

Jasper chuckled, "What can I say? I'm a sucker for hazel eyes."

I laughed and rolled my own, "Okay, Mr. Suave, walk me to class."

He laughed and offered me his arm. I took it and we were gone then.

I smiled fondly as Jasper tickled Bianca on the couch. She laughed hysterically and begged for him to stop. But Jasper kept on tickling her until he heard me laughing. He slowly stopped, allowing Bianca to catch her breath, and looked at me. I smiled back at him.

Esme walked in the room wearing an apron and smiled, "Who wants to help me with the cake!"

Bianca gasped excitedly, "I do! I do!" She ran into Esme arms and the mother hen laughed and walked the little girl out of the room.

Leaving me and Jasper alone.

I could not believe how trusting these parents were of their teenage children.

I walked over to where Jasper was sitting and sat on his lap, straddling him. I smiled down at him as he rested his hands on my hips, "Why, hello, little lady..." That southern twang was just down right sexy.

I giggled, "Why hello southern gentleman..."

I leaned down and brought my lips to his. In the early stages of our relationship... we hadn't really kissed much. We held hands, we kissed each others cheeks with pecks here or there. But usually teenagers were playing tonsil hockey every chance they could. Not us, though. That didn't really bother me but... Jasper was a teenage guy with needs. Did he want more? And was I not enough?

But when Jasper kissed me back and held my face gently in his hands... these doubt just melted away. I smiled in the kiss and I felt him smile too. I slowly pulled away, not pushing too far too soon. I smiled softly down at him, perfectly happy with this moment in his arms.

"Heather..." Jasper whispered, his face suddenly nervous.

"What is it, Jasper?" I asked softly. His eyes shone with... fear.

"I want to tell you now..."

I gave him a shocked look, "Are you sure...? It's alright if you're not..."

Jasper shook his head, "You're important to me Heather. I want to tell you. I talked to my family. We all trust you. We're just scared that you won't want anything to do with us anymore..."

I wrapped my arms around his shoulders, "What could be so horrible that it would make me want to stay away from such incredible people such as yourselves?"

Jasper let out a shuddering breath, "What we are."

"O...kay... I'm confused," I told him, "What you are?"

Jasper nodded.

Then I asked the most obvious question, "What are you, Jasper?"

Jasper looked me in the eyes, "You've noticed our skin... our temperature... our eyes..."

"How you never eat... how you speak sometimes... I've noticed all of this, Jasper, but I don't know what it all means. I need you to put the pieces together," I told him desperately.

Jasper sighed, "Promise you won't run away. I couldn't take it if you thought I was a monster too."

I gaped at him, "Jasper... I could never think of you as a... monster. Why would you think that?"

Jasper closed his eyes, "I don't want to lose you, Heather. That's why this is so hard to tell you. You're the first human we've ever told that hasn't... joined us."

I was quiet, "Human?"

Jasper sighed, "I was born as Jasper Whitlock in Houston, Texas..."

"That explains your accent..." I interceded quietly.

"... in 1844..." Jasper continued.

I gaped at him again, "What...? That's impossible..."

"... I met a woman named Maria when I was nineteen. And she turned me... into what I am now..." Jasper hedged.

I was getting slightly irritated and very terrified, "Jasper, stop beating around the bush and just tell me what you are already!"

"Heather, I am a vampire. My family and I are... vampires." Jasper whispered, full-fledged fear showing in his eyes.

I gasped loudly. I shot off of his lap like lightning, "What?"

Jasper looked hurt at my initial reaction, "It's true, Heather. I am a vampire. So is Rosalie... Alice.. Emmett.. Edward .. my parents..."

"Are they really even your parents?" I butted in, "Is Rose even your sister?"

"For all intense and purposes they are my brother, sister, mother and father. I look at them that way. But biologically we are in no way related."

I started pacing the room away from him, trying to wrap my head around this. My boyfriend was a vampire.

"You said you didn't hurt people!" I raised my voice slightly.

Jasper looked at me sincerely, "We don't."

"I think drinking their blood qualifies as hurting them, Jasper."

"We don't feed off of humans. Unlike others of our kind. We feed off of animals to survive. That's why our eyes are golden. If we drank human blood, they would be red," Jasper explained patiently.

I stood with my hands on my hips, "Why don't you drink human blood?"

"Carlisle is the one who came up with it. There's a clan in Alaska that does it too now. We like to call ourselves vegetarians."

"Is that the only reason?" I asked.

Jasper shook his head, "I don't like being a monster, Heather. I won't lie to you... I used to feed off of humans at first. When you're first turned... the thirst is impossible to fight, and I didn't know there was another way."

"Wait, you weren't with Carlisle from the get go?" I put a hand up.

"No," Jasper said, "Maria turned me and used me as her slave. We'll get into that later though."

I could tell it wasn't a subject he wanted to approach just yet so I dropped it, "How'd you get to the Cullens then?"

Jasper sat back, "Alice found me. She took me to the Cullens."

I was quiet at the mention of Alice. As close as we were... I still felt insecure with my boyfriend living with his now-ex-girlfriend. I always wondered if he would wake up and realize that he didn't want me. He really wanted her.

"So you've been with Alice for a long time...?" I whispered... almost too quiet.

But he heard me, "I was with her since she found me... a long time ago. But we are not together anymore. You have absolutely nothing to worry about I can promise you that."

I slowly took a seat on the other side of the couch, "How can you promise something like that? We've been together a few weeks. You were with her for who-knows how many years! That's a history that I can't compete with!"

"But there's nothing to compete with!" Jasper said earnestly, "Alice has an extra.. gift. She can see the future. Her visions are subjective. Because the future can always change but... she saw us."

"What do you mean she saw us?" I asked.

"She saw us together. I felt an instant connection to you when we met. And I tried to fight it because of loyalty. But Alice had a vision only a week after you moved here... of us... together... and so happy."

I sighed, "Is there anything else I should know?"

Jasper gave me a careful look, "I don't want to overload you with information."

I sighed and scooted closer to him on the couch, "How about we just cover the basics? What can you do?"

Jasper seemed relieved, "We are fast. Impossibly strong. Our skin is as hard as diamonds. We can jump."

"So you're super heroes?" I asked.

Jasper grimaced, "Slightly."

"What about the sun deal?" I remembered the vampire lore.

Jasper groaned, "We don't burst into dust in the sunlight. That originated because we were only seen at night."

"Well obviously there's some reason that you're never in the sun. This is the cloudiest place on the planet and you're absent whenever the sun is out," I pointed out.

"It's embarrassing," Jasper warned me.

I shrugged, "Tell me."

Jasper sighed, "When the sunlight hits our skin... it sort of reflects off into light. It makes our skin look like diamonds are covering it."

"Huh," I said, "So you sparkle. You're a fairy!" I laughed loudly, teasing him. And I guessed that if Jasper could blush, he would be.

"Don't make fun of me!"

It got quiet then. Jasper gave me a cautious look, "Are you alright with this?"

I sighed, "I guess... I knew there was something weird about you. I just didn't expect this."

"Do you think you can.. accept us... me?"

I had to think for a while. Did this make him any different? He still spoke like Jasper... walked like Jasper. He was still my Jasper. He wasn't doing anything wrong.

"Yes... Jasper. I can."

Jasper's face lit up in excitement as he shot forward and lifted me up from the couch, cradling me in his chest and spinning me around happily. I giggled exasperatedly at his antics, "Jasper, I'm getting dizzy."

He abruptly stopped and set me down on the couch, "Of course. I apologize. I'm just so relieved that you haven't run away screaming."

"Jasper..." I put a hand on his face, "I can not imagine a life without you in it now. I really care about you."

Jasper smiled a sparkling wide smile and sat down besides me before taking me onto his lap. I wrapped my arms around his neck as his were wrapped around my waist and asked, "Does anyone else have any extra gifts, as you said?"

Jasper nodded, "Edward can read minds and I'm... what we call an empath..."

"So you can feel and manipulate emotions?"

Jasper's eyes furrowed, "How did you know that?"

"Oh, please," I rolled my eyes, "You're talking to the biggest Charmed nerd in the world."

Jasper still looked confused, "What's Charmed?"

I gasped scandalized, "You don't know what Charmed is? Blasphemy! I will just have to educate you."

Jasper chuckled, "My apologies, ma'am."

I laughed, getting lost in his eyes, "You're eyes are golden..."

Jasper grinned, "Yeah," then it faded, "There's something I should warn you about... uh... I'm the newest of my family to this vegetarian lifestyle. It's still a little difficult for me."

I saw the worry and fear in his eyes. He thought he might lose control and hurt me. "I trust you."

Jasper didn't look like he trusted himself though. "Is that why you're so careful when we're... close?"

Jasper nodded, "I can't ever lose control with you. I could lose you at my own hand in a second."

I narrowed my eyes a little, thinking, "When was the last time you fed?"

"Last night," Jasper answered promptly.

"So you're sated... right now?" I asked shyly.

"Yes... why?" Jasper asked.

And he found out when I crashed my lips to his.

He told her! And she's okay with it! Did you expect anything else?

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