Chapter 4
Kaya looked out at the waves as they crashed into the shore. The moon reflected off the water, creating a serene light over the beach. Seth kissed Kaya's shoulder as she melted into his arms and he held her closely.
"You okay," he asked and she shrugged.
"Probably better than Alice, do you think she is still alive?" He chuckled.
"Barely, I mean I know Rose would never kill Alice, but I also know she thought about it several times in the past few minutes. Poor Jasper is probably working overtime with the happy vibes."
"Yea, maybe he can send some Roman and Iris's way. I wish my family was less complicated, like yours." He scoffed at that.
"Oh yea because my family is just so simple, I remember the first time I learned about my stepsister. It was back when Jake wanted to kill all vampires, especially Edward, and Leah wanted to kill all supernatural beings in general. Then there was the time that Jake imprinted on Renesmee. Bella and Edward wanted to kill him. That was fun. Oh and when Leah thought she was slick about harboring feelings for Jake for years and I had to pretend like I had no clue while the two of them had this weird tension. Yea, that wasn't uncomfortable at all. Oh and then your brother came into the picture and….."
"Okay, I get it. Your family is complicated too," she giggled.
"I didn't even get to the good stuff, like Jake's dad and Bella's dad battling over my mom. That was my favorite, nothing like a love triangle between old people to raise the family morale," he teased.
"I love you," she giggled and he kissed her tenderly.
"I love you too and you will always have a family with me. Plus, you know Nahuel loves you."
"I know, I just wish Roman and Nahuel didn't hate each other so much. Iris has issues, but I know she doesn't hate me. I can't say the same about Roman and Nahuel."
"It will just take time, Kaya. They have to come to terms in their own way, just like you and Iris do. I am sorry that I am causing issues with her." She scoffed.
"Never apologize for loving me, Seth. That is Iris's issue, not ours. At least Sofi seems sweet. What do you think of Zach's new girlfriend?" He shushed her and looked around.
"Not so loud, Rose might hear you," he whispered and Kaya laughed.
"Poor Rose, I don't know how she is going to get through this."
"At least she doesn't have to worry about him finding his mate just yet."
"How do you know?"
"Come on, Kaya. We have seen mates. We are mates and they don't have that connection."
"Yea, there is obviously an attraction there, but I had such an instant connection to you. It was so intense and I couldn't leave you after I met you. I doubt Rose cares at the moment though."
"Oh trust me, she doesn't, which is why I am down here with you and nowhere near her right now," he said with a chuckle.
Rosalie stormed into one of the spare bedrooms in Jacob and Leah's house with Emmett right behind her. Emmett watched her as she tossed a bag onto the bed and began to pace.
"Angel…."
"I am not talking to you right now." He huffed.
"What did I do?"
"This is all your fault! He is going to try to go see Sofi tonight. I just know it!"
"Okay, but how is that my fault?"
"Because he is your son! He is persistent and clever, so you know he is going to that forest!" Emmett pulled her into his arms.
"Aw, that sounds just like his mommy," he cooed and she slapped his shoulder as he laughed.
"Stop trying to charm me, Emmett. That is how we got into this mess in the first place, your stupid dimples and charm that our baby boy inherited!" He winked at her as he smiled the dimpled grin that made her melt into his arms.
"Don't worry angel. My dimples and charm forgive you for calling them stupid," he teased as he nuzzled her neck and she sighed.
"Why did you have to teach him how to flirt? Was that really necessary?"
"He is our kid. He is a natural flirt and you are to blame too. That bowing like a gentleman stuff is all your doing and the ladies eat it up!"
"Em, what are we going to do? He likes her and she would be a fool not to like him. Why aren't you freaking out with me? He found his mate! They are going to get married and live far, far away from us for eternity," she wailed and Emmett chuckled.
"First, calm down. Second, Zach will never live far, far away from us for eternity. The boy is such a mama's boy that whoever his mate does turn out to be, better really like you and the family because they aren't living anywhere but on the island…unless we get a bigger island. And last, but not least, I am not freaking out because nothing is going to happen. I am not ready for Zach to grow up and find his mate either, which is why I am very happy and amused by Sofi. He is fascinated and attracted, but they are not mates. Come on angel, you know mates. You know the instant need for one another and that isn't what I saw with the two of them."
"I don't know how you can wrap your mind around all of this enough to even think objectively about it," she admitted and he kissed her. She smiled and rested her head on his shoulder as he rubbed her back soothingly.
"It is going to be fine."
"Good, so we will never see Sofi again and Zach will not want to see her at midnight?" Emmett chuckled.
"Oh he is definitely going to want to see her. He has your determination and my charm. He is going to be curious and want to see what type of attraction he has to her. I just know it will not go anywhere. He is totally going tonight though," he laughed and she pointed at the door.
"Out," she yelled and Emmett shrugged as he left, whistling all the while. Rosalie went back to her pacing. Leah, Bella, and Esme gave a quick knock before entering the room and Rosalie rolled her eyes as they all smiled sympathetically at her.
"How are you doing," asked Bella and Rosalie huffed.
"I just don't know what I want to do first. Should I dismember Alice, burn the pieces, and then deal with Sofi? I mean that could get messy, but….."
"Rosalie, I don't want to hear such talk," scolded Esme and Alice nodded as she poked her head in.
"Yea, that's just mean," pouted Alice, but she quickly got out of dodge as Rosalie threw a shoe at the door. Leah and Bella snickered and Esme placed her face in her hands.
"I always knew this day would come," groaned Esme and Bella smiled.
"Yea, as soon as Zach was born, we all knew his good looks would give Rose a breakdown all because a girl looked his way," giggled Bella as Rosalie glared at her.
"No, I meant that my children would all start conspiring to kill each other. It is inevitable with so many strong personalities in one family," said Esme and Leah shrugged.
"Rose, maybe you should cut Alice some slack," suggested Leah.
"Hi, we're best friends, this is the part where you're supposed to be on my side," yelled Rosalie.
"I am on your side and I know that this sucks. I have been there….you remember that whole Nina debacle," grumbled Leah and Rosalie laughed.
"It was just last year, Leah," reminded Rosalie.
"I try to block it out every day. It was horrible! Deep down I knew it would be okay though because Josh didn't imprint. It was Nina that I was worried about. Face it Rose, we have raised some good looking boys and when they aren't out fighting in supernatural battles or getting into trouble, they are pretty amazing kids too. They are going to attract girls."
"Gorillas, I prefer to be in denial and call them gorillas," mumbled Rosalie and Bella smirked.
"Well enjoy the denial while you can because I don't feel bad for you. I had to deal with Renesmee and imprinting at birth," said Bella as Rosalie tried to hide her laugh.
"I don't care how much time passes. That was so creepy," laughed Rosalie and Leah cleared her throat.
"That is my husband you are laughing at," warned Leah.
"So, it doesn't make it less creepy," teased Rosalie and Leah stuck her tongue out at her. Esme smiled lovingly at Rosalie.
"Promise no more talk about killing, Alice," implored Esme.
"I will think about it, but I make no promises. The night is still young," warned Rosalie with a devious smile and Alice poked her head into the room.
"Will it make it better if I tell on Zach and Josh for foolishly thinking they can sneak out of the house without me seeing it? I think you and Leah should go put them in their place. I wasn't going to say anything until they decided to insult my intelligence and gift, but now a lesson must be learned," she whispered. Rosalie jumped up and looked out the window along with everyone, but Leah, who simply smiled.
"I have it covered," assured Leah and the others shook their heads as they watched the two boys attempt to tiptoe off the porch.
Zach motioned for Josh to hurry up as they tried to stealthily sneak out of the yard. They made it to the end of the driveway, until a voice made them jump.
"Where do you think you are going," asked Jacob as he walked out of the house with a knowing smile.
"Boo," shouted Emmett as he jumped out of the tree and chuckled at their expressions.
"Um, hey," said Zach with a wave and Emmett rolled his eyes.
"Did you seriously think you could sneak out of a house full of vampires and wolves," asked Emmett and Josh shrugged.
"We were just going for a walk," tried Josh.
"Where, to see gorillas," teased Jacob and Zach groaned.
"I just want to go talk to Sofi. I like her and she seems nice. Plus, she is the one that said she was going to hunt at midnight and I just want to make sure no one bothers her. I mean, you may not have known this, but dangerous creatures tend to lurk in the forest at night, like nomads, lone wolves…."
"Gorillas," added Josh with a laugh and Zach nudged him.
"Ignore him, I usually do, anyways, I just wanted to make sure she was alright," explained Zach and Emmett shrugged.
"Fine, you can go," he said and the voices of Rosalie, Leah, Bella, Alice, and Esme could all be heard from the house.
"What," they shrieked and Emmett laughed. Jacob smiled at the shocked expressions on Zach and Josh's faces as well.
"We trust the two of you," said Jacob and Emmett nodded in agreement.
"I know your intentions are noble. Besides, if you do something stupid, we will know about it," added Emmett. Alice poked her head out of the window.
"Sure will, I might not be able to see everyone involved, but I have my eye on you, Zach," warned Alice and Rosalie smirked.
"Doesn't change that you are still on my wish list," said Rosalie and Bella laughed.
"Only Rose could make a wish list something that is so dangerous and threatening," teased Bella. Zach and Josh shook their heads as they looked back at the house. Their fathers winked at them.
"Go check on Sofi, but be back in two hours," said Emmett.
"If you are not back in two hours, the two of us are coming after you and it will be worse than anything your mothers can do," threatened Jacob.
"Doubt it," laughed Leah and Jacob rolled his eyes. He pulled a photo out of his pocket and Josh's shriek echoed around them when he saw the picture. Zach let out a booming laugh at his friend and Emmett grinned.
"Aw, look at cute Joshy woshy in the bathtub. How old are you there, two, three," asked Emmett and Jacob smiled.
"Two and a half, oh and trust me I have a whole box full of these bad boys and a whole town of gorillas waiting to see them," teased Jacob.
"I wish we were really talking about gorillas now," whined Josh as he put his face in his hands. Emmett smiled mischievously at Zach.
"You know baby boy, we took a whole lot of pictures when you were growing up. You just grew so fast and we wanted to remember each and every moment. Aunt Alice pretty much made it her hobby," laughed Emmett and Alice poked her head out the window again.
"I couldn't help it! You were just too cute and still are! Don't look at me like that, Zachary," said Alice as Zach pouted. Josh bowed to them in defeat.
"We promise, two hours okay," asked Josh. Emmett and Jacob glanced at each other and nodded. Josh ran into the woods to undress and phase as Zach saluted them. He ran after his friend and the two boys were off. Emmett pumped his fist.
"How do you discipline a wolf and a vampire that can control force fields effortlessly," asked Emmett.
"Blackmail," shouted Jacob as he waved the picture around. They high-fived and Rosalie sighed happily at her mate.
"I love him so much," she said mostly to herself and Alice nodded happily.
"Oh yea, Emmett is so amazing," complimented Alice, which made Rosalie smirk.
"You are still on my list," she announced and Alice whined as she marched out of the room.
The forest blurred by as Zach and Josh raced through it, trying to pick up Sofi's scent. They found it deep within the forest and Zach smiled when he saw her take down an elk. Josh hung back a bit as Zach waved at her.
"I told you elk were amazing. Where are your siblings?" Sofi finished off her prey before smiling at him.
"They are keeping an eye on Caleb. I guess he stopped for a bit in Port Angeles."
"So it is just you," asked Zach and she nodded. Zach waved at Josh and the wolf galloped off.
"Where is he going," asked Sofi.
"He has to go do some alpha stuff."
"What is alpha stuff?"
"Oh you know, a little bit of this, little bit of that."
"I see. I just figured he was leaving us alone. After all, the only reason he came out here was because you were too afraid of coming alone."
"Me, afraid, of course not, it is the whole alpha, beta thing. We always go together so one can meet up with a girl and the other can feel like the fifth wheel. It happens."
"You are so cute," she giggled and he grinned as he pointed at his cheeks.
"It must be the dimples," he teased. She ran a hand through his curly hair and sighed.
"I think it could be the whole package."
"Really," he asked and she nodded as she stepped closer to him.
"Really," she agreed. He slowly leaned in and closed his eyes, ready to experience his first kiss. He was surprised the moment their lips met. He wasn't sure what he was expecting to happen. They pulled apart and stared at each other in silence. He searched her eyes for a sign and sighed when he could not find one.
"What is it," she asked and he shrugged.
"I'm sorry."
"Is it just me or do you seem disappointed," she questioned in confusion.
"It is not that. I mean….well the kiss was nice, just not what I expected." She looked up at the sky and could make out some of the stars shining through the trees. They stood there in another moment of silence before she spoke up again.
"I know what you expected. You expected for your entire body to respond and the earth to move and every question you have ever wondered to finally make sense because even if you didn't have the answer, it would all be okay, right?" He slowly nodded.
"Something like that," he agreed.
"That's how Lena explained mates to me. It is the way she felt when she met Alexander."
"They are mates."
"And we aren't, are we," she asked with a hint of disappointment as well. He shook his head and looked down.
"No, we aren't. I am sorry Sofi. I thought maybe if I came out here and we….." She silenced him with a peck to the lips and he smiled as she shrugged.
"It is okay, Zach. I still think you are great, even if you aren't the one I am meant to spend eternity with. I must admit. It would have been fun." He chuckled.
"I don't know if my mom would agree," he teased and she giggled as well.
"Yea, she doesn't like me very much, does she?"
"She doesn't like any girl that I could be remotely interested in. I guess it doesn't matter at the moment though. You know, I still have some time before I have to get back."
"Are you thirsty? I recommend the elk. I hear it is great this time of year," she teased and they both laughed as the tension in the air ceased to exist. He motioned for her to come with him, so they could hunt.
Alice frowned as she sat on the roof with her eyes closed. She was sifting through her visions and Edward smiled smugly as he sat down beside her. She put up a hand dismissively.
"Leave me alone. I have seen what you are going to say so…."
"Oh, I am going to say it loud and clear, so everyone can hear me," he laughed as he lay back and looked up at the stars.
"Of course you are," she grumbled.
"You know Alice, there comes a time in every vampire's life when they have to come to terms with the fact that sometimes, they are just wrong."
"That isn't true. I am not wrong."
"Oh but it is and you know it, face it, your visions are getting blurrier. You can't even see the path you have taken us on now and you are flying blind, little leprechaun." She gasped in horror as he grinned crookedly at her.
"How dare…."
"Connell is right. That is so much fun," he laughed.
"I am not wrong! I know we are on this path for a reason. My decisions have been good ones!"
"Can you see anything?" Her shoulders slumped.
"Not a thing," she confessed and he chuckled.
"Failure is a funny thing….."
"Don't you ever say the F-word to me again!"
"You got cocky. You have meddled so much that you forgot what you were meddling for and now Rosalie is plotting to kill you….oh yea, the wish list is still there."
"Man," whined Alice and he chuckled again. He was thoroughly enjoying himself.
"Zach is more confused than ever about mates and to top it off, we have been so busy dealing with all of this, which you set us up for, that we haven't even found Caleb, so let's recap. No mate for Zach, no Caleb, and no point for the meddling pixie. At some point, you are going to have to admit it. The moral of the story is betting against Alice is wrong, but betting for her when she is going in blind and risking death by Rosalie is setting yourself up for failure." He flicked her ear and she glared at him with gritted teeth.
"I am not failing, Edward. I am right and this is going to be a success. You will see. You'll all see!" Edward slowly nodded and then smiled even more.
"So, um, any new visions to help you out?"
"Not a one," she groaned as she put her face in her hands and he hopped off of the roof. He winked up at her.
"At least you can see Zach and Josh coming back home, that's something," he teased as he strutted back into the house with a bright smile.
With sixteen minutes to spare, Zach and Josh entered Quileute territory. They stopped in the woods so that Josh could get dressed and the two of them walked at a human pace the rest of the way as Zach tried to wrap his mind around what happened.
"So let me get this straight, we went to Seattle so we could have fun and find Caleb," said Josh and Zach nodded.
"Yep."
"We found Nahuel's siblings instead and stirred up tension. Then, we made our moms go ballistic, had to be lectured and blackmailed, went all the way into the forest, and, by the way, did all of this so that you could finally kiss a girl, only for you to realize a second later that you just really aren't that into her?"
"J, it isn't that I am not into her. She just isn't my mate so…."
"Just answer the question."
"Yea, pretty much," admitted Zach and Josh shook his head.
"You can never, ever tease me about Nina again!" Zach nodded and they shook on it. They heard Sam's pickup truck pulling into the driveway of Josh's house and jogged into the front yard just in time to see Drew, Daniel, and Braden follow Sam into the house. By the time they entered, Carlisle was already explaining the details to the pack. Rosalie and Leah hugged their sons, who sat beside them to listen to what was happening.
"I have spoken with Marcus again and while he is willing to give us time to decide what to do, his guards are keeping an eye on Caleb. If we cannot guarantee that Caleb will remain under control, he will be killed," informed Carlisle and Sam sighed.
"We can't let that happen. I know Caleb is wrong, but I can't go back to his mother and tell her that her son is dead. Caleb is in a dark place. I have been there and I was given a chance to make it right," said Sam. Leah slipped her hand into Jacob's as their eyes met.
"Sam is right. We have to figure out a way to get through to Caleb," she agreed.
"What is with the change of heart," questioned Sam.
"Oh trust me, he is still on my wish list," she informed and Bella groaned.
"I wish we would stop calling it that," said Bella and Alice scoffed.
"I wish I wasn't on one," said Alice as Rosalie waved tauntingly at her. Edward chuckled and Leah continued.
"He has hurt a lot of people, but I know what it is like to spiral out of control and want to do stupid things. That is what makes the wolf gene so dangerous. It makes you so angry and irrational at times. It feeds off of that anger and Caleb never asked for this. We have to figure out a way to help him."
"The question still remains, how," asked Jasper and Alice let out a squeal of delight. Edward pinched the bridge of his nose.
"Still going blind," he warned, but she jumped up anyways.
"I have a plan! Oh and by the way, the Denali Coven is about to arrive," she giggled and clapped happily as she skipped out of the room. Everyone looked at Edward and he shrugged.
"Not in this," he mumbled and followed Alice outside. The others shook their heads, but followed them outside as the pitter patter of feet could be heard. Garrett was the first to arrive and hopped out of a tree, his eyes wide in anticipation as he looked around.
"Where is Sofi? Did Rose already kill her? I always miss the good stuff," he whined and Alice hugged him.
"Welcome back to La Push and no, Rose did not kill Sofi," said Alice as the rest of the coven arrived.
"Oh good, so we aren't too late. Seeing Rosalie in all her fury is better than Keegan and Benjamin putting on a fire show. Explosive," laughed Garrett as he rubbed his hands together and Rosalie playfully glared at him. Tanya hugged Carlisle before looking at Alice curiously.
"I know you wanted us to come help, but how exactly are more vampires going to help control a wolf that seems to get more out of control when more vampires are involved," questioned Tanya and Edward smiled smugly as he waited for Alice's answer.
"I have no clue, but it will work. Anyways, I am so happy you could make it," exclaimed Alice and Kate giggled at her excitement.
"We were hunting in British Columbia anyways. We planned on stopping by the island once we were done, so we just headed here instead. How can we be of help," asked Kate and Alice shrugged.
"I am not sure yet, but don't worry, you will help," she assured. Edward gave Jasper a pleading look.
"Try to reason with your mate," advised Edward.
"I always believe in my darlin'," said Jasper as Alice hugged him. She became lost in a vision for a moment before addressing everyone.
"Okay, Ben, you handle Zach. Tanya and Kate, you handle Kaya and Nahuel. Oh and Sam, call Dana and tell her not to worry. We have it under control. She is panicking a bit. Okay people, let's move!"
"Move where," exclaimed Edward and she glared at him.
"I am working on it! Do not make this any harder than it has to be Edward Cullen, do you hear me?" She marched back into the house and everyone looked at each other in confusion. Benjamin shrugged and wrapped an arm around Zach.
"So, is there something you need to ask me," questioned Benjamin and Zach smiled sheepishly as he nodded. Benjamin winked at him.
"Come on, let's go for a run," he suggested. Kate and Tanya glanced at each other and Tanya shrugged.
"I guess we should handle whatever it is to handle with you two. Nahuel, Kaya, want to head down to the beach," asked Tanya. Nahuel and Kaya slowly nodded and the four of them headed down the beaten path leading to the ocean.
Benjamin and Zach stopped by a fallen log on the outskirts of Forks. Zach looked around to make sure no one else had followed them before he spoke up.
"Ben, were you still happy with Tia even though she wasn't your mate?" Benjamin thought for a moment as he realized why Zach was so interested in speaking with him.
"Yes, for a while, but I always felt like something was missing in my existence. Tia and I truly believed we were mates. It was not until I met Tanya that I realized any different and that is when everything changed for me. I suppose if a vampire thought they found their mate, it would be fine, but knowing that you haven't and trying to pretend like you have is extremely difficult to do. Deep down, I always knew something was not completely there with me and Tia, but it was so small that I pushed it away. The moment I saw Tanya, it all came to the surface. Mates cannot be forced."
"I really like Sofi and she is beautiful, but I don't feel like I need her in my life. At the same time, it feels like I have been curious about mates for so long. I was attracted to her so I figured she was the one."
"Have you ever been attracted before?"
"Well, I think a lot of vampire women are beautiful, like Maggie, Senna, Kachiri, even Tia…."
"Okay so pretty much female vampires in general that you are not related to, that is normal Zach."
"Then there are the girls at Josh's school, but they kind of scare me. They just fall all over me and then the appeal is gone because I wonder if it is because of me or the fact that I am a vampire and am luring them in. Dating a human girl would be way too complicated." Benjamin laughed.
"Yes, it would be, but it sounds to me like you don't want to date anyways. Zach, I understand that you are curious about your mate, but dating is not going to fill the void for you. Take it from someone that waited hundreds of years to find his true mate, it is worth the wait and when you find her, you just know. If Sofi was the one for you, the two of you would know immediately on some level because mates are powerful. Besides, don't be in such a hurry to grow up. You have a great life, Zach. My first years as a vampire were nothing like yours. You have an amazing existence, so just enjoy it and know that when it is supposed to happen, it will," assured Benjamin. Zach smiled as Benjamin patted his shoulder.
"Thanks Ben."
"Anytime, so is that it or is there something else on your Aunt Alice's agenda that I should be aware of?"
"That's all I got," chuckled Zach and Benjamin winked at him.
"Then let's head back and see what other craziness she is up to," suggested Benjamin.
Tanya, Kate, Kaya, and Nahuel awkwardly stood on the beach trying to figure out what Alice needed them to talk about. While Kaya, Tanya, and Kate tried to guess, Nahuel passed the time by making a sand castle.
"Okay um, any problems with your mates," asked Kate. Kaya shook her head.
"Everything is great in that department," said Kaya.
"Does it have something to do with Alaska," tried Tanya, but Kaya shook her head.
"No, not that I know of, Nahuel, stop making pillars and come help us figure this out," whined Kaya and Nahuel shrugged.
"I have no clue why we are down here. We should be up there waiting with the others for Roman, Iris, and Sofi to come back." Tanya's eyes widened.
"That has to be it! We are siblings and you are having trouble with your siblings. What is going on," asked Tanya and Nahuel shook his head.
"That can't be it. There is nothing we can do about Roman being an idiot. He is who he is and if we are never in each other's lives, then that is fine by me," said Nahuel.
"But you are brothers," said Kate.
"What do I really have in common with the guy? We share a father and he was a monster that just wanted to experiment on us. I don't want to rehash that out with him." Kaya frowned at the comment.
"Then I guess you and I don't share anything else as well. Our only connection is Joham," said Kaya as she looked down and Nahuel sighed.
"I didn't mean it like that."
"But it is true, right Nahuel," challenged Kaya.
"No, of course it isn't! Look, you and I have things in common. We wanted out. We wanted more in this life than just to be ruled by Joham or to feel like we had to be ashamed of what we are," defended Nahuel.
"And who is to say that Roman doesn't want that? He feels threatened by you because he was created in response to you. He is supposed to be everything that you are not, the anti-Nahuel, but guess what? Now everyone is telling him that Joham was wrong and you are right, essentially saying that everything about him is wrong and everything about you is right. I am not saying that Roman doesn't have his issues, but don't we all? You had over a hundred and fifty years to come to terms with your existence and you still couldn't until you found your mate. Maybe we aren't so different from them," argued Kaya and Tanya nodded.
"Kate and I have lived for hundreds and hundreds of years, so long that we lost count after a while because it never truly mattered, but what has always mattered is family. There are times when I want to strangle my sister…."
"Hey," said Kate.
"You know it is true," giggled Tanya.
"Yea, okay," conceded Kate.
"But I would die for her and I would do anything to make sure that she is happy. It hasn't always been amazing for us. We have suffered plenty of heartache and loss over the years, but knowing that I have her in my existence makes it better. Ben is my better half, but I cannot imagine my life without Kate." Kate wrapped an arm around her sister as she nodded.
"It wasn't always easy and there have been times when we butt heads, but my life is better with Tanya in it. You two will always have each other, but before you turn your backs on the rest of your family, make sure that is what you really want to do. No one is saying you have to live together as a coven with them, but having family out there that you can visit and connect with sometimes is a great thing. We love our coven, but definitely enjoy getting a call from Alice or Carlisle asking us to do our extended family a favor. It keeps things interesting," giggled Kate. Tanya winked at them.
"Just make sure you don't live this existence with any regrets. Get to know them and if you still don't like what they have to offer, then you don't lose anything. Just make sure you don't lose out on a chance to connect with people that you share a bond with because that is rare in our world," added Tanya. Kaya hugged them in thanks and Nahuel nodded his understanding. He sensed the presence of his siblings in the area and sighed.
"Speaking of the devils, I believe they are here," said Nahuel. Kaya took in a deep breath and walked with him back up to the house along with Tanya and Kate.
Carlisle, Esme, and Sam walked outside to greet Roman, Iris, and Sofi as they arrived at the Black Residence. Roman shook Carlisle's hand and Esme smiled warmly at him.
"Please come in, have you heard from Marcus," asked Carlisle and Roman nodded as he entered the house with them. Nahuel, Kaya, Tanya, and Kate were right behind them and Roman glanced at his brother over his shoulder before addressing the large group in the living room.
"I see the Denali Coven has been invited to join the search. This is a good sign. Maybe you have come to your senses," said Roman and Edward frowned in confusion.
"Search, I thought you found Caleb, what happened," asked Edward.
"We thought he would stay put in Port Angeles, so we went to make sure Sofi was alright in the forest with Zach," confessed Roman.
"They were being overprotective and Caleb got away in the process. I told you Zach would never hurt me," said Sofi and Rosalie smirked.
"You really think my son would harm her," asked Rosalie and Iris crossed her arms.
"We know nothing about the boy except that he has taken a liking to her. We do not trust easily and have no reason to. With his power, he could easily take advantage of her so we were cautious," said Iris. Rosalie let out a low growl.
"His name is Zach, not the boy, and my son would never take advantage of a female or anyone for that matter. Your sister is the one I would keep an eye on. She invited him in the first place," shouted Rosalie and Carlisle put his hands up as Jasper calmed Rosalie, Roman, and Iris.
"Let's not get off track. We all have a common goal in mind, so let's stay focused on that," suggested Carlisle and Roman gave a curt nod.
"When we got back, he was gone. His scent was easy to track and we followed it back to Forks, but then lost it. With so many wolves running around the region, it just blended in. We informed Marcus of his whereabouts and he agrees that you can handle the situation. However, we are going to stay in the area until Caleb is no longer a threat. If you cannot tame the wolf, then we will," said Roman and Keegan frowned in confusion.
"Why do you want to kill him so much? Marcus is obviously fine with the Cullens handling it so why are you so concerned," asked Keegan.
"It is my job to be concerned. What is Caleb to you? Why are you even here," asked Roman.
"I was invited. I might not know Caleb, but I do know what it is like to be seen as a constant threat and to feel out of control. If this kid is anything like I was, all he really wants is to feel like he belongs somewhere," explained Keegan.
"Well unlike the Cullens, once I set out to do a job, I am not looking to give second chances," said Roman and Keegan grinned slyly.
"Then I guess it is a good thing the Cullens are not like you or you would already be dead," replied Keegan. Roman hissed at the words and Zafrina arched an eyebrow at him as Nahuel shook his head in amazement.
"Wow, you must have some anger issues if you are willing to take on a firestarter," warned Nahuel and Roman's eyes widened when Keegan's filled with flames. Zafrina smiled at her mate's control over his power as it simmered in his eyes, but did not burst from them.
"I used to be seen as just a threat, nothing else, so yes Roman. I take it personally when someone comes in with your extreme mindset," added Keegan as the flames disappeared. The room was awkwardly silent and they were relieved when Carlisle's phone began to ring. Carlisle frowned in confusion at the number, but answered.
"Hello," asked Carlisle and his eyes widened when he heard the voice.
"Carlisle, I need your help. You are the only one I trust right now."
"Caleb?" Everyone's attention was on the phone as they listened to the conversation.
"There are some vampires after me. I can't go home. I would lead them right to my mother. She has been through enough and I am not about to put her in danger because of what I am."
"Caleb, you are going to be alright. I am in La Push with my family. We are here to help and know you are in the area."
"I am in Forks just hiding out and trying to figure out my next move. I don't know where to go anymore."
"That's okay. I can help. Come to La Push…."
"No way! I am not going to fall for a trap so the wolves can ambush me. It is bad enough that I am in Forks but I am not going on Quileute land. Sam and his pack don't want me there and your family isn't exactly my allies either."
"Then why did you call me?"
"I….I don't know."
"Yes you do. It is because like you said, you know you can trust me. The people after you are guards in the Volturi. You have caused some scenes in Seattle and you are endangering our world, Caleb. They will not allow you to do that anymore."
"I haven't done anything!"
"How careful have you been when phasing and being in wolf form?" Caleb let out a shaky breath.
"I was spotted a few times, but it was dark. No one can prove anything about me."
"That's good, but still too risky. I can help you, Caleb. Just come to La Push."
"I am not going there. I already told you that! Why aren't you listening to what I am saying? No one ever listens to me!"
"Okay, you are right. I apologize. Calm down, you don't have to come to La Push. What about my old place of residence? It is outside of Forks and not near La Push."
"Yea, I remember."
"Will you meet me there?"
"How do I know this isn't a trap? Maybe you just want me dead."
"If that were true, then you would already be dead, Caleb. You know that. You know I have tried to help you even after you attacked my family. I vouched for you when Jacob and Sam first wanted to overthrow you as alpha. I know now what I knew then. You are a kid that was given too much too fast and you feel like no one really wants to help you, but deep down you know that I do. Let me help, Caleb." Caleb was silent for a moment and Carlisle waited patiently.
"When do you want to meet?"
"There is no reason to prolong it. Whenever you are ready, I will meet you at my old home."
"I can be there in ten minutes."
"So can I." Caleb hung up and Carlisle smiled triumphantly. Edward chuckled at his thoughts.
"Talking does indeed work, dad," agreed Edward.
"May I suggest that the pack not be around? I do not want Caleb to think I have betrayed him or lured him into a trap," suggested Carlisle and Sam nodded.
"I have no problem with that. I trust you to make the right decisions for him. Just let him know that if he ever wants to return and is willing to join us, he is welcomed to. As for the three of you, we would appreciate it if you left our land as soon as your work is done," said Sam and Roman smirked.
"Oh trust me. We don't want to be here anymore than you want us here. We have a wonderful home in Italy and the sooner the pup is tamed, the better for us," agreed Roman.
"At least we can agree on one thing," said Sam and Roman gave a curt nod.
"With that in mind, Cullens we would like to be there just to make sure the problem is taken care of," said Roman.
"That is fine, as long as you are willing to follow my orders. I do not want Caleb afraid because of your presence. Please do not threaten him," bargained Carlisle. Roman glanced at Iris and Sofi, who both nodded.
"Fine, let's get this over with," said Roman. Sam looked at Jacob, Leah, and Josh as they stood up.
"Are you going with them? Do you think Caleb will be okay with that," asked Sam.
"We want to see how this turns out for the guy. We will make sure we don't provoke him. Besides, you are the one that he has the most issues with. I didn't steal his pack," teased Jacob and Sam chuckled.
"Yea, I guess not. Well, keep me updated and try to stay out of trouble," said Sam. Tanya walked over to Carlisle.
"Do you want us to be there? We could always wait for you on the island if you would prefer that," offered Tanya and Carlisle turned to Alice.
"What do you think," he asked and Alice shrugged while Edward rolled his eyes at her thoughts.
"I can't see any reason for them not to be there," she assured.
"Especially since you can't see anything," mumbled Edward and she nudged him. Carlisle eyed them curiously but nodded.
"Then I guess everyone, but the pack, should head to the old house. Sam, you should call his mother and have one of the wolves drive here there as well, maybe Daniel or Drew. Our house is a bit complicated to get to, especially at night. They can drive her there in her car and then run back to La Push. That way she can reunite with her son and Caleb will have even more reason to cooperate," instructed Carlisle.
"I will do it," said Drew and Sam patted his shoulder.
"Go ahead, I will call Dana and make sure she is ready when you get there. Carlisle, good luck, we both know Caleb is not easy to get through to," said Sam as they shook hands. Carlisle slowly nodded in agreement, knowing that Caleb would be hard to talk down.
The old Cullen House still held all of the resources they needed just in case they ever had to stay there while in the area. After Caleb's pack attacked Seth, the Cullens made sure that they left the house in operating form in case of emergencies even more so than before Seth was injured. Everyone filed into the house, except Carlisle and Esme, who waited on the porch for Caleb.
"Do you think he will listen," asked Esme and Carlisle sighed as he wrapped his mate in his arms.
"I hope so my love, for his sake. A part of me has always felt responsible for him in some way. He didn't ask for this existence."
"None of us did Carlisle, but we make the most of it and he will have to as well if he wants to continue on." Carlisle nodded in agreement and pulled her closer to him as they waited. Suddenly they could hear the low rumble of a motorcycle in the distance and it grew louder as it came closer. Light from Caleb's motorcycle poured through the trees and Carlisle stepped off of the porch as Caleb parked in the driveway. Carlisle smiled at him comfortingly.
"I am glad you could make it." Caleb slowly nodded as he listened into the house.
"A lot of vampires are inside, some wolves too."
"Jacob, Leah, and Josh wanted to be here. They are just concerned about you like I am. Jacob and Leah know what you are going through. They have both been through it."
"Doesn't explain why the rest of your family is here."
"They are just here to help if they can. We have a lot of resources all around the world and if we can make things better for you, then we will. Would you like to come inside?" Carlisle could sense his hesitancy and Caleb did not budge.
"I am not sure about this," admitted Caleb and Carlisle smiled in relief when he heard a car coming down the driveway.
"Maybe this will ease your worries," said Carlisle and Caleb looked at him curiously as the car parked behind Caleb. Dana got out and ran over to her son.
"Mom," he laughed and happily hugged her as she sobbed in his arms.
"I was so scared something had happened to you," she cried.
"Aw mom, please don't cry. You know I hate it when you cry." She showered him with kisses and Esme smiled as she watched the two of them embrace. She knew what it was like to worry about a child and was relieved that they could reunite.
"Please listen to them Caleb. They want to help. I wish I could, but I don't know how to help you through this. I think that they can," urged Dana. Carlisle nodded.
"We can Caleb, if you let us. Please come inside and tell us what has been going on," suggested Carlisle. Caleb looked at his mother for advice and she nodded. He slipped his hand into hers as he got off of his bike and walked inside. Esme smiled comfortingly at Dana, who smiled back. Caleb took in a shaky breath as he walked into the living room and saw the amount of people there.
"Is this some type of intervention," he joked to try to lighten the mood and Keegan grinned at him.
"Not really, just a bunch of people who want to keep the peace and make sure you are alright," said Keegan and Caleb eyed him.
"Who are you again?"
"I am Keegan from the Denali Coven and someone who has been in your place before," said Keegan.
"Yea, I doubt that," grumbled Caleb.
"It is true. I know what it is like to roam the streets of Seattle trying to find your way, but ultimately feeling like everyone is against you. That isn't true though by the way and the fact that all of us here should show you that," explained Keegan. Caleb slowly nodded as he looked around the room. He was still hesitant as he looked at all of the vampires. That is, until he locked eyes with one in particular. Edward's jaw dropped and Alice squealed in delight as she clapped happily.
"And there it is," she exclaimed as she began to dance around Edward, causing everyone in the room to look at her, except for Caleb and the hybrid he could not look away from. Sofi stood up and let out a shaky breath as Caleb walked over to her.
"Who are you," asked Caleb in awe and Sofi bit her lip nervously as she closed the distance between them. Zach and Josh looked at each other in shock and then back at the couple.
"I am Sofi and you must be the answer I have been waiting for," she said in astonishment as her hand slipped into Caleb's.
"Sofi," asked Iris and Roman glared at her contact with Caleb.
"Sofi, why are you touching the pup? Stop it," demanded Roman and Sofi blushed as she looked up at her siblings, breaking eye contact with Caleb for the first time. Everyone, except for Alice gawked at them in utter disbelief and Josh spoke up.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa, did he just do what I think he just did," questioned Josh and Kaya grinned as she looked into her baby sister's eyes.
"I know that look very well. He imprinted with Sofi," she whispered to Seth and Sofi frowned.
"Imprinted, what does that mean," asked Sofi. Caleb gulped as his entire mindset morphed in that moment.
"It means that you and I have a connection now," answered Caleb in awe.
"A connection," she asked and he slowly nodded as their eyes locked again.
"When a wolf finds his imprint, nothing matters to them as much as that person," he whispered and Seth kissed Kaya's hand before smiling at the two of them.
"He'll be whatever you need him to be," said Seth and Jacob glanced at Renesmee.
"A friend, a brother, a protector," added Jacob and Sofi gulped.
"What about a mate," she questioned and Caleb beamed with happiness.
"Yes, if…well if that is what you want," agreed Caleb and Sofi's smile matched his as she stepped closer to him. Edward's eyes widened as he read Iris and Roman's thoughts.
"This is impossible," shouted Iris, but Kaya shook her head.
"Actually, it is quite common in our family. I knew the moment I saw Seth," said Kaya as she smiled at Sofi.
"But she has seen the mutt before," yelled Iris.
"But only for a moment," said Seth and Edward nodded in agreement as he read Sofi and Caleb's minds.
"Sofi has always feared the wolves and during confrontations, she would stay back unless you needed her help, even when you lured Caleb away from Seattle. The two of them never made actual contact or locked eyes, so they didn't imprint," explained Edward.
"Obviously, now she has," stated Seth with a wide grin, but Roman was not as amused. Edward gulped.
"Roman, don't," warned Edward. However, Roman would not listen. He became enraged as he saw the way Caleb gazed at his baby sister and he lunged for the wolf. Sofi pulled Caleb back as Carlisle jumped in front of him to protect the wolf. Roman crashed into Carlisle and they fell to the ground, triggering Esme's protectiveness over her mate. She instinctively responded and hurled Roman off of Carlisle. Iris grabbed Esme, in order to assist her brother, but Rosalie, Alice, and Bella immediately pounced on Iris. Rosalie pinned her to the wall by her throat while Alice and Bella each grabbed an arm. Rosalie hissed at Iris.
"Girls, stop, I am okay," soothed Esme and the three of them slowly nodded at their mother as they glared at Iris, but released her. Seth pulled Dana behind him as the human cowered back in a corner and Zach and Josh smiled comfortingly at her.
"Don't worry. We won't let anyone hurt you," assured Seth. She looked up at Zach and Josh and they nodded as well. Nahuel shook with fury as he watched his brother flip to his feet and Nahuel speared him through the front door. The two brothers crashed to the ground and Roman kicked Nahuel off of him. Everyone except, Leah, who stayed inside to comfort Dana, ran outside to watch the fight. Dana was scared by the explosive events, but once she realized the vampires were not targeting her, she managed to catch her breath.
Roman and Nahuel circled one another and Kaya jumped off the porch, ready to stop the fight, but Iris grabbed her arm.
"No, this was inevitable. They need to get it out of their systems," said Iris.
"Not by killing each other," shouted Kaya and Iris locked eyes with her sister to convey her seriousness.
"We won't let them. Your family has spared my life, you obviously want peace. This is the only way to get it," she assured and Kaya slowly nodded as they watched their brothers lunge at each other.
"This is your fault! That mutt put a spell on her and you allowed it to happen," roared Roman as he swiped at Nahuel, who ducked. Nahuel swept Roman's legs out from under him, causing him to slam into the ground.
"You want to blame me for everything, but you don't even know me! I didn't cause any of this, Roman," shouted Nahuel and Roman flipped back up to his feet.
"I know enough! You think you are so much better than me because you are a Cullen, but you are still just an experiment that Joham got wrong," screamed Roman. Nahuel punched him across the jaw and Roman recovered by kicking him in the stomach. Nahuel let out a sharp hiss and Bella had to hold her daughter back as Renesmee growled at Roman for harming her mate. Nahuel caught Roman's leg and tackled him to the ground as he tried to kick him again. He punched Roman repeatedly before Kaya and Iris ran over to break it up. Kaya pulled Nahuel off of Roman as Nahuel screamed at him.
"This is crazy, Roman! We are brothers. I don't care if you think I am the worst brother in the world. I know who I am," said Nahuel and Roman pointed at Kaya.
"You have already allowed her to be with a mutt and now Sofi is going to be a victim as well if you have it your way," yelled Roman.
"That is enough," shouted Sofi and all of her siblings looked at her in shock as she marched over to them. She pushed Roman and Nahuel apart and stood in between them.
"I am an adult, Roman, so stop treating me like a child! I decide what I want and who I want," she yelled as Roman looked at Caleb with disgust.
"He is a dog, Sofi! Besides, you just met him. This isn't okay," said Roman and Nahuel sighed.
"Look, I had trouble accepting when Seth imprinted on Kaya and Seth has always been a great friend to me. I know this is hard to understand, especially since it happens so quickly, but it is real. I wouldn't let Kaya be with Seth if I didn't think that it was and I wouldn't let it happen to Sofi either. She is my little sister too," vowed Nahuel. Roman threw his hands up in exasperation as Iris patted his shoulder. Sofi smiled at Iris and Iris did the same.
"Something is different with her, Roman. I can already see that. She never would have stood up to you before this," said Iris and Roman slowly nodded.
"Fine, Sofi, you are free to do as you please. Have a good life," he grumbled as he turned away from his baby sister and she glared at him.
"So what, that's it? I am nothing to you now," questioned Sofi and Roman turned to face her again.
"You have obviously made your decision. You are choosing the pup over this family."
"No, I am not. This is your problem, Roman! Why does it always have to be all or nothing with you? All I want is for everyone to be happy. I want to be happy and I can be happy with him, but that doesn't mean that I don't love you or Iris or our lives. I love being part of the guard and living in Italy, but I shouldn't have to choose just because you can't get over your issues. I….we should be able to see Nahuel and Kaya whenever we want. Iris has wanted to ever since we met them, but she has always worried about you feeling betrayed by that," confessed Sofi and Iris looked down. Kaya smiled at her sisters.
"Really, you wanted to see us," asked Kaya and Iris sighed.
"I might not understand you and the pup….I mean Seth, but that doesn't mean you aren't my sister," admitted Iris.
"See Roman, we want our family," said Sofi and Roman scoffed.
"Great, so I am the villain? I am the one that is always wrong and they are always right," accused Roman. Nahuel exhaled loudly as he realized the amount of insecurities Roman had and that he was partially to blame for them.
"No Roman, you aren't always wrong and I am not always right for the record. Ask my mate, I am sure she will tell you," chuckled Nahuel and Renesmee nodded as she joined his side.
"I am of the belief that Nahuel is right maybe half of the time, especially in arguments with me," she teased and Nahuel playfully glared at her before smiling at Roman.
"Look, I know our family is complicated and we have a lot of messed up history to get over, but we can get over it. We have plenty of time. We are brothers, Roman. Like it or not, you are a part of this family," said Nahuel and Sofi wrapped her arms around Roman with a big grin.
"You are my brother and I love you," agreed Sofi and Roman sighed as he looked at Caleb.
"And what happens now since you also love a pup…."
"Caleb, his name is Caleb," stated Sofi and Roman groaned, but nodded.
"What happens now that you are in love with Caleb? What about the guard? What about us? Marcus and Didyme have been so amazing to us and I know they would let you leave without any remorse, but I am not ready to lose my baby sister, so what happens now," questioned Roman and Sofi looked down. Alice smiled proudly at Edward as he cleared his throat.
"That might not be necessary," suggested Edward and they turned to listen to what he had to say. Alice pushed him off the porch.
"Go ahead partner in crime, go meddle," she encouraged and Edward rolled his eyes at her before addressing Roman.
"Marcus and Didyme are very open people. They know who Caleb is and would be willing to listen," suggested Edward and Alice cleared her throat.
"Smooth meddling technique, but you are being too subtle," she advised.
"Quiet little pixie," shushed Edward and she giggled at him as he continued.
"What I am trying to say is that there is plenty of room in the guard and even if you do not want to join it, Caleb, you could go to Italy and be with Sofi. You can see how it works out and take it from there," suggested Edward and Caleb scoffed.
"A lone wolf in the Volturi guard, that is crazy," mumbled Caleb.
"You could say the same about hybrids before the three of them joined," informed Edward and Sofi happily nodded as she ran over to Caleb.
"Will you at least try it out, for me? I don't know what is happening between us or why it is happening so fast, but I feel like I was meant to find you," confessed Sofi.
"You were," agreed Alice and Sofi giggled at Alice's excitement. Sofi smiled as Caleb gazed into her eyes and tucked a stray piece of hair behind her ear.
"Whatever you need me to do, I will do," he explained and Sofi wrapped her arms around him.
"Then come to Italy, just try it out and if you hate it then we will go from there. Think of it like a vacation, come see my home," she offered and Caleb chuckled as he nodded.
"If it makes you happy, then I guess I have to find a way to get to Italy," he agreed and she jumped into his arms.
"I'm on it," squealed Alice as she pulled out her phone and skipped inside. Carlisle and Esme chuckled at their daughter's happiness and beamed with happiness of their own as they realized everything was falling into place.