Hey wolf girls, this chapter focuses only on to J&B and the pack. I did not want to have other interferences, mainly from the bloodsuckers. J&B deserve some time together to enjoy themselves, without the worries that will haunt them soon. You'll see in the next chapter. But now, to enjoy only of J&B.
SM owns all. This is the way that I wanted things to go. Thanks to Goldengirl62, for your help, I do appreciate you so much; and thanks to my wolf friend, Ladyofspain.
Estrella, este capítulo está dedicado a ti cariño.
Chapter Seventeen: La Push
(Bella's POV)
An unknown fear hit me. I couldn't understand why my window was open, when I was certain I closed it.
"I'll go up and close it for you," my dad offered as we entered the house.
"No, I'll do it," I replied, as I started making my way up the stairs.
"I'll make sure everything down here is as it should be, while you do that," he stated, walking towards the kitchen.
I slowly made my way upstairs, fear still beating at me. I stopped at the entrance of my room, quickly clicked the light switch by the door and looked around. Seeing nothing amiss, I walked fully into it. Before closing the window, I looked under the bed and inside the closet to make sure I wasn't going to be closing anyone or anything in here with me.
Seeing that there was nothing, and everything was in place, I walked over to the window and closed it. Turning from the window, I looked around, and rubbed my arms, noticing for the first time how cold my room was. I had the urge to make sure my window wouldn't magically open again, so I turned and checked to make sure it was truly locked.
I was making my way back downstairs, because I didn't feel like being up here by myself right now, when I heard the phone ring. My dad answered.
Charlie called to me. "Bella, it's for you."
"Okay, I'm coming," I replied. Reaching him, I took the phone. "Thanks dad."
It was Angela. "Hey Ang," I greeted. "I was thinking about you and how you were. I'm glad you called."
"Honey, don't worry," she replied. "I've seen some very strange things, but it's better if I tell you about them tomorrow. How about we get together tomorrow for a girls day in Port Angeles?. We could get something to eat."
"It sounds like an excellent idea," I agreed. "Because I have a few things to tell you too."
I heard the smile in her voice when she said, "I suppose so, like me, but all is well. And how are you?".
"I'm fine and very happy. I'll give you all the details tomorrow." I smiled to myself. "The important thing, we are both fine after a rather stressful and unusual day."
We both laughed and said goodbye, agreeing that Angela would pick me up in the morning for a trip to Port Angeles. After saying a few words to my dad, I went upstairs, feeling very tired all of a sudden. After going through my nightly ritual, I went to bed.
(Jacob's POV)
After Bella and Charlie got in his patrol car and pulled away, I stood and watched until it was out of my sight, into the darkness. I felt happier than I had felt in a long time. I knew I would be able to claim her as my own soon, but I promised to give her time, and time is what I would give her. The heart of that girl belonged to me. I hoped that soon she would truly realize that, and accept me as her boyfriend, though that word boyfriend, paled in comparison to what we really were to each other. I couldn't wait for the day she wanted to be with me voluntarily, without feeling obligated—but because she accepted what we meant to each other. She belonged to me, although she didn't admit it, her heart was mine, and soon it would be her body.
When I could no longer see their car, I decided to give Sam a call and ask for them all to come to my house. There were things I needed to talk to them about. While I waited, I spent a few moments talking to my dad.
"Well, Son," my dad said to me. "Today has been quite an interesting day for you."
"Interesting doesn't even cover it," I replied. "Today has been the happiest day of my life. I finally have my best friend back and soon hope to have her as my girl. I want the Luna of my people to be here, and to be living in my home with me as my woman. But I'll need your help, because before that, I need my Bells to know that other side of me… I'm scared that when I show her that side of me, she'll flee. I hope that doesn't happen, because I'll die without her… if she rejects me…"
"Easy, Son, she has strong feelings for you," my dad reassured. "That's very clear, don't worry, soon she will come to you."
Just when he said that, all the guys walked into the room, including Quil and Embry. "Of course it will be so," Sam commented. "And then we'll have our Luna with us."
"Then you can finally kiss your girl," Paul added jokingly. "I'm tired of being in your mind, thinking of all the things you would like to do with her and… do at her; and I won't say anymore, at least not in your dad's presence."
Everyone laughed because they knew exactly what Paul was talking about. When everyone settled down and we were seated, Sam remarked. "Don't worry; she'll realize soon just what you two mean to each other, as Billy said."
I decided to try to get my mind off her for a few minutes and talk of something else.
"So, what happened when you followed Ben and Angela today?". I asked Embry.
"Ben was very hard on Angela," Embry replied, anger evident in his face. "I had to intervene, because he was trying to force her to return to him. It's a lucky thing Quil was there to intervene or I would have beaten his ass. It would've ended badly for everyone, especially for Ben. He would've ended up in the hospital."
I could feel the happiness coming from my friends despite what Embry just told us, and I knew it was the feeling that we were making progress with our girls.
"I will invite Bella down here next weekend and want to include Angela. We'll have a bonfire and invite the council members; it's time for the girls to know more about the tribe and our legends. I'm hoping my dad will tell the stories of our people," I informed them.
"Will you tell her she's your imprint and what that means?". Paul asked me.
"Yes, I will. I'm going to wait for the opportune moment, because I want her to be with me, because she's in love with me, the same way I'm in love with her—not because of some imprint magic. If I had imprinted on some other girl, I'd pity her, because there's no room in my heart for her; my Bells has it all."
"She loves you. The imprinting is just an added bonus," Sam tells me.
"I hope so, Sam. Being away from her is becoming more painful everyday."
I turned to Embry. "What about you and your feelings for Angela?"
"I sense that Angela has always had feelings for me… It was my fault that I didn't give myself the chance to meet her before. I guess everything happens for a reason. My feelings for her have intensified, and I hope to spend more time getting to know her."
"Well, if you want a bonfire and for me to re-tell the stories for the girls' benefit, that's what I will do. Furthermore, then we have to warn them of the dangers around us… the cold ones especially," my dad stated.
We all nodded as he continued, "This is especially important to me, because Bella has always been a daughter to me, and I don't want her ignorant of the world she lives in. She will soon become a true daughter, the way my son dreams of."
Everyone smiled at that. "Apart from the legends, will you show her the other side of you?." Seth asked me.
"I will, if given the chance to, because I think the time will be ideal. But it would kill me if she ran away. She's not Quileute, and maybe she doesn't want to have anything to do with this mythical world we are all a part of." That thought truly saddened me.
"Don't worry, Jake," Sam assured me. "Her feelings for you are strong, stronger even than the fear she may feel at the realization that you are part wolf, and that his purpose is to protect our people—and all people from the cold ones. Be confident as I am that everything will be fine."
"I also hope my Ang doesn't panic, or be afraid because of it," Embry added. "But if there are doubts, I'm sure Angela and Bella will be a great support to each other."
"That is very true," my dad added. "You two are very fortunate to have imprinted on two such wonderful girls. They will blend seamlessly into our culture."
"Thanks, Dad. But now we need to go on patrol; Forks will now be on our permanent watch, especially the homes of our girls. I'll make the first round to Forks."
"And I'll take the second round," Embry volunteered.
We spent a few minutes after that, while I prepared our patrol schedule. Before the guys left when they did, I wished my dad a goodnight, then made my way outside, undressed and then phased when I made it to the woods. Jumping, I phased mid flight and began running as soon as my paws hit the forest floor and didn't stop until I reached my love's home. Though I did patrol other areas, I spent most of the night under her window, wishing for the time I could sleep with her safe in my arms. When it was time for Embry to patrol, I traded places with him and ran back to La Push.
I went straight for the bathroom when I made it home; I needed to take a shower—a very cold one. My imagination was working full-time tonight with thoughts of my woman, and a cold shower would be wise.
(Bella's POV)
I was pleasantly surprised to see another beautiful sunny day on waking the next morning. Sitting up in bed, memories of yesterdays' revelations came back to me, and of the dreams I had last night. Jake was present in my dreams. Remembering that my dad had to go into work today, and surely he was gone; I rushed through my morning ritual. I decided on wearing black jeans that molded to my body, with boots, a strapless top and a vest to cover it, complemented the whole outfit.
After I was dressed, I went down to begin breakfast, but before I made it to the kitchen someone knocked on the door; that must be Angela. But when I opened the door, there stood the imposing figure of Jake. I glanced behind him and noticed that Embry was seated in the car. I was surprised but happy to see Jake here. Memories of my dream came back to me again and I was sure my face became red at the memory.
"Hey, Jake," I greeted, reaching up to give him a kiss on the cheek. But he swooped down and picked me up with one arm. Walking into the house, he closed the door with the other, and then held me close to him with both. I had to admit, I was impressed by his strength. I flushed and was a little embarrassed by the feelings I had being held in his arms. He must have noticed.
He whispered close to my ears. "Bells, you have to get used to this kind of greeting and farewell, because this is how it'll always be, holding you in my arms."
I subconsciously placed a hand over my heart. In a seductive whisper, Jake requested, "Bells, don't protect your heart from me, just hold me please, babe." I relented and threw my arms around him, holding him close.
"Good morning, Jake," I whispered.
I felt so safe and protected in his arms, and his love for me seemed to go out through his every pore.
(Jacob's POV)
It was amazing that such a simple greeting could elicit such a powerful effect on me. But that game, we could both play.
"Good morning, beautiful," I whispered close to her ear, making sure my warm breath affected her and was rewarded by the shiver I felt go through her and the rapid beat of her heart. I walked over to the sofa with her still in my arms and sat down, placing her in my lap. Oh God, she looked so beautiful. I took a moment to let my gaze travel over her in admiration. She seemed to have a hard time looking me in the eyes, and kept her gaze low, looking at her hands. I placed my fingers under her chin and raised her face up to look at me.
"I came without warning because I was dying to see and be with you; Embry also wants to see Angela, but by the way you're dressed, it seems you have already made plans."
"Yeah," she replied. "Angela and I made plans to have a girl's day in Port Angeles, but we should be back early."
"Good. When you return I'd love for you come down to La Push and spend the day with me."
She agreed. "Sure, I'd like that."
She got off my lap. "I'm about to make some breakfast, would you like to join me?"
"Sure, I'd love to," I replied.
We walked to the kitchen, and together made breakfast. We were at the table eating and talking, when I heard a sound outside and knew it was Angela. She knocked on the door and we both went to answer it. Angela and Embry both walked in together. Bella invited them both to breakfast. Angela said she already ate, but Embry accepted, so we both walked back to the kitchen with the girls. Embry and I sat down to breakfast while listening to them talk.
"Jake invited me down to La Push, so I'd like to get back early enough to go," Bella said to her.
Angela smiled. "Embry invited me also."
"Call me when you reach the border," I told Bella. "You won't be able to find the way for you alone."
"I agree," she replied. "The way seemed so complicated to Leah's house yesterday."
I smiled self-consciously. "Actually, Sam took the long way yesterday, so you couldn't escape."
Her eye widened in surprise, and then said, "So I guess Sam is your logistical support."
"Yes, I admit I have a lot of logistical support." I smiled at the memory. "And all have done a great job, because getting to recover you has been very difficult."
"That's true," Embry added. "You don't know how much Jake has worked discoursing the way to show you the kind of man he really is. But the truth is, you also had the best logistical support in Ang; she did an excellent job. You're very clever at escaping from a man." The memory of those days made me smile. Actually, despite everything, I enjoyed chasing her.
Close to Bells, I took every opportunity I had to touch her, feel her skin, her warmth, either accidentally touching her or holding her by her waist, caressing her hair, or hands. I dreamed many times about it, and I wouldn't miss a chance. I noticed the surprise on her face, because she didn't expect me to touch her whenever I could. But I swear I couldn't help it; touching her was a necessity for me, if only slightly. Soon she would get used to my touch, and would want me to touch her. I was going to make that happen.
(Angela's POV)
After we talked for awhile, Bella went upstairs and collected the clothes she borrowed from Leah yesterday, and then we left. The boys followed us until we reached the turn off for La Push. When we reached Port Angeles, we decided to find a restaurant and have some lunch before doing anything else. When we reached a suitable place, we could talk, relaxed; I wanted to share with Bella all that had happened to me yesterday with Ben... and with Embry.
"I'm now free of the pressures of Ben, thanks to Embry," I told her as soon as we were seated.
"I know," she told me. "Jake also sent Quil to help Embry look out for you."
I was confused. "How could he tell him to do anything?; Is he their boss?."
"I have no idea. But I'll ask him later."
We brought the conversation to what happened on the beach yesterday. Jacob's reaction to seeing Mike there, it was the same reaction Embry had with Ben. I also told her what happened when Ben took me home, and how Embry came to my rescue. Fortunately, Quil was there to stop Embry, if not, he would have beaten the hell out of Ben.
"I was driving to my house, when Ben made me stop the car. Then, when we stopped, Ben wanted to continue driving, but I got out of my car. That's when I saw Embry and Quil out in the woods; I swear I don't know how they got there—and at that time—but they were absolutely timely. When Ben saw him, he started yelling and saying that he knew it was because of Embry I didn't want to go back with him. Before I answered, Ben began to force me to get back into the car, and started to squeeze my arms. I tried to get Ben to let me go, but he was like crazy, and uncontrollable. Then, in a way unexpectedly quick, Embry took Ben by the collar and forced him to let me go. Luckily, Quil was there, because otherwise, I swear Embry would have sent Ben to hospital; it's evident that these Quileutes are very strong." We smiled at that reality.
"Ben ended up on a bus back to Forks. Quil returned to La Push, and Embry took me to my house. Embry and I stood at my door and had a very long conversation. Bella, that moment was like a dream for me, to be with Embry talking; that was the best part of the day. The way he looked at me, as we talked, I noticed an interest that I had never noticed before." I'm sure my face reflected my joy.
"You are a beautiful girl inside and out, and Embry became aware of it; also, he helped you to get rid of that harassing Ben. I'm happy for you Ang; I say that with all my heart." I know that Bella did, she was my best friend.
(Bella's POV)
I listened to what my friend was saying with interest and astonishment, but mainly happiness for her.
"I didn't expect this shift between Embry and I; I didn't even expect to become his friend. He seemed unavailable to me, and now we're friends," she continued.
"So that you're telling me, things seem to be cementing between you and him," I observed. "And from what I saw earlier, you two get along very well, at least as friends."
"Exactly, at least as friends—I don't know what will come of it, but I'm enjoying the moment. Embry is very nice and attractive. I wish I knew more about him but the Quileute people are very closed."
I agreed. "That's true. They are a very closed group, but can become the best friends you could you ever want. My father's best friend is Billy, Jake's dad, and my best friend has always been Jake. I believe that Embry has found a very good friend in you; only time will tell if it becomes more."
"Indeed, the fates will tell," Angela said. "But now, I'm going to focus on seeing him just as a friend and enjoy the moments with him."
After her last statement, I told her what happened to me when I accompanied Jake back to La Push, and what he told me about the feelings he has for me.
"He has all the traits that make him a wonderful man," I said with feeling. "Any woman would be happy to call him her own, and he's mine."
"I'm happy that you two are friends again," she replied. "I can guess how he has longed for you to visit him there." She smiled softly. "Even a blind man can see how you two truly feel about each other. When he looks at you, I feel as though I'm interrupting a private moment."
I couldn't help blushing about what he said to me yesterday. "Last night, he told me how he felt about me and left me in no doubt of his intentions, but said he would give me the time I needed. Oh, Angela, really this is unexpected for me… he is so wonderful, so different from the man I ran away from."
"And did he say why he behaved that way, when he first saw you again?." She asked.
"Yes. And that left me more embarrassed, because he says he has had feelings for me since we were children, when we were only 7 years old."
"So how do you feel about all this?".
I thought about that question for a few seconds. "This is all new to me, I am extremely cautious and I have always thought of Jake as my best friend. When I arrived in Forks, after that first meeting, I refused to think of him as a man, but I will not deny he is an incredible attractive man. I was 7 when I went away, now I'm back at 18, that's 11 years I missed and want to recover and return to how it use to be. There are things about him I don't know, but I know he wants me to get to know him fully. "
I wondered how to phrase what else I wanted to say. "Angela, I can't deny that I'm incredibly attracted to him, much more than I ever imagined. I don't know how to define it, but I feel an undeniable need to be with him, even just to look at him. I feel as though something is missing when I'm not with him and that need becomes painful when he's not by my side." I ended, feeling a wave of confusion overwhelm me.
"Well if he's giving you the time you need, you should feel confident that you will make the right choice." She reached over and gently squeezed my hand. "Don't worry, Bella; I'm sure everything will become clear to you, in time."
We smiled at each and continued talking. After eating, we walked around Port Angeles, before leaving to go to La Push.
(Jacob's POV)
When Bella called me from the border, Embry and I went in my car and led them back to Leah's house, where everyone was gathered, including the council members. I wanted Old Quil to know the woman who stole my heart.
My Bells and Ang were received warmly by the girls and the pack. We talked for awhile but Embry had plans for Ang and him. Embry invited her to his house to see his mother. When they left, I introduced Bella to Old Quil. She gave him a kiss on the cheek in greeting. I grinned to myself; the sweetness of my girl could charm anyone. Even Old Quil, by the way he was looking at her, was already charmed and he was known to be very serious. He took her hand and inhaled her aroma, a smile spreading across his face.
"Welcome to our village, Daughter", he said still smiling. He kissed her on the cheek, then he glanced at me. "You have made the best choice; she is beautiful inside and out. I can smell her purity."
I looked at Bella and saw surprise written on her face, and confusion at what he just said. I took her hand and squeezed it lightly in support, then placed my arm around her waist. Then I turned back to Old Quil. "Thank you sir, and I agree, I always knew she was the right choice for me." Turning back to Bella, she looked even more puzzled, but I just smiled and invited her to go for a walk on the beach. I was happy that Old Quil accepted Bella, he had the ability to look at someone and see the purity of their soul, but he didn't say anything I didn't already know. She had an aura of innocence and tenderness that anyone could see.
I invited my Bella to walk to the beach; I took her by the hand. I noticed expressions of happiness of my friends and family as we passed. I knew they were happy for me, but Bella seemed a bit evasive. Clearly she wasn't used to walking hand in hand with a man. She wasn't accustomed to our familiarity; but gradually, I hoped to become more accustomed to it. I still held her by her hand, as we walked. It was so easy for us to be together, so natural, we complemented each other.
I took her to all my favorite places along the beach. We talked about all that had happened in the 11 years since we had been apart; she told me of her mother's re-marriage. I spoke of my mother's death and how painful it was for all of us. I also told her of my sisters moving away from La Push, but that I could never leave, because I was next in line to be head of the tribe and had a responsibility to my people. She seemed absorbed with everything I said, and even commented on how comfortable and welcome she felt here. She thought our people were warm and loving, just by the way they welcomed and accepted her and Angela. Then she asked about Old Quil and what he was talking about earlier.
"It's called Quileute magic or something," I replied. "But Old Quil can see the purity or wickedness of a person's soul; he could smell your purity…. Also the purity and innocence of your body… He just confirmed what I already knew." I could not hide my delight of what Old Quil confirmed.
She blushed, and asked. "You mean Old Quil, only with his eyes, could see the evil or goodness of my heart… and could see my innocence?."
I nodded, and she blushed even more. "Don't be ashamed, Bells. Your eyes are very transparent, when I look into them I can see your soul… you don't even know how to lie." We smiled at each other. "I can't deny I'm happy that Old Quil confirmed what I always knew in my heart to be true."
"Are you saying you thought… about me being a virgin?". she asked flushing.
"Sorry, it wasn't something I thought, I just knew… I didn't mean to upset you; I…"
She put her finger on my lips, stopping my words. "Don't apologize; Jake, we should be able to talk about anything, and I'm glad that you are completely honest with me. I guess you now have an advantage over me; you know more about me than I do about you."
"Bells, you can ask me anything. But I want to tell you something. I have never been interested in another woman; there is only one woman I have ever loved. I want to learn and experience everything with her. I want my first time to be with her… and my second time, and every time… for the rest of my life, only with her."
I looked deeply into her eyes, wanting her to see the depths of feeling I had for her. She blushed and looked down. I used my fingers to raise her eyes to mine. "Now we're even in this aspect, and besides, I wanted you to know, you stole my heart at age 7. I knew one day you would come back to me—it was only a matter of time, and although I met some girls, there were none that could compare to you."
We stood by a tree and I sat against it, pulling her onto my lap and felt her tremble in my arms. "Jake being with you makes me feel a host of feelings and emotions new to me. All I truly know is that with you I feel loved and protected. But, how can this be when we just met yesterday?; It's as if our relationship could never be broken… I don't know how to explain it."
"You'll never be more loved and protected with anyone as you are with me. Soon you'll understand why our relationship is particularly strong. It's true that only yesterday we met again, but my feelings for you have always been present, especially since you've returned. If before the child loved you; now, Bells, the man loves you, completely."
I pulled her close and kissed the top of her hair, pulling her intoxicating scent into me. We sat there for a while holding each other. Then we got up and hand in hand again, started walking back to Leah's house.
When we reached the house, Bella and I greeted Charlie, who was invited by my father, then she joined in and helped the girls to prepare the food. Leah informed us that Embry called and said that Angela would be having dinner at his house with his mom.
"This, I saw coming," Kim stated smiling. "I'm happy for him."
When everything was done, we all went out in the back yard and enjoyed a delicious meal. We were just cleaning up when Embry and Angela re-appeared, holding hands—a fact that was not lost on anyone. When everything was put away, Charlie informed the girls it was time to go. Embry and I didn't want to be parted from them, so he went with Angela and I accompanied Bella and Charlie to Forks.
(Bella's POV)
Jake walked me inside the house, but I knew he would have to leave soon; it was late and tomorrow was a school day. "Can I pick you up for school tomorrow?". Jake asked.
My dad heard him, turned and looked at him funny. "I see you were serious about nobody ever separating you from my daughter. Well, good luck in convincing her."
Jake smiled and touched my cheek, like a child asking for a gift. "Look, just for tomorrow; if I turn out to be a good shuttle service for you, hire me indefinitely."
I couldn't help laughing at his antics. He was so cute, doing everything to make me laugh and trying to convince me.
"Well, I love my independence… but tomorrow I'll test you and see if I like your transport contract."
The smile of joy was breathtaking as it lit his face. We talked a little more about schedules until it was time for him to leave. He hesitated. "I don't want to leave," he said sadly.
"Yes, but Embry should be waiting," I replied. "Tomorrow we'll leave early."
We stood there, looking at each other; the tension in the air began to increase. He started to approach me, closing the distance between us. I tried to think of something to distract me from his ambush, but without success. I started to say something... rather, to stammer something.
"Mmmm... I have to go... into my house... I have things to do, and..." Before I could finish that sentence he had me in his arms, held flush against his body. I was finding it hard to leave, but I had to because he showed no signs of leaving my side. I didn't want him away from me, I felt so happy and safe in his arms. It was costing me more than I could imagine, but I was aware that I should do it, because he seemed frozen in time. I tried to speak but my voice was shaking. At that time, his cell phone rang; it was Embry.
He spoke while still holding me with one arm. When he finished speaking he said to me, "This is really hard for me… and you aren't helping me with anything." I looked at him puzzled, not understanding what he was saying. Then he whispered, "You're not helping me to go... you're like a magnet to me."
I felt his breath on my ear and felt chills go up my spine. It was the same feeling I sensed with every one of his touches, today in my kitchen. But I knew it was I who must end this delicious torture, because he seemed unable to do so. I held him close for a minute, kissed him on the cheek, and then quickly entered my house, saying goodbye.
(Jacob's POV)
Embry and I made our way home in silence, each in our own thoughts. I walked in my house still thinking. "Damn, I was lost, I couldn't help myself, I couldn't, didn't want to leave her. This separation is becoming more desperate, especially since she realized I was her long lost friend. The man has always loved her and can wait a little longer, but the wolf wants to claim her now."
Yeah, I'm talking to myself now. I must be really losing my mind. After taking a cold shower, I went to bed and fell asleep before my head hit the pillow, and was up bright and early the next morning. After doing everything I had to do, and saying goodbye to my dad, I went and picked Bella up. When we arrived at school, I helped her out of the car. Everyone was in the parking lot—my friends and the Cullens. I took her hands, and knew the effect this would have on her fans, especially Mike and Edward. I was showing everyone that she was with me. I walked her to her class; I was saying goodbye, when Mike arrived.
With his face red with rage and jealousy, he asked her, "Bella… what is going on here?".