A/N: Big thanks to Hank's Lady for the help.

D: Disclaimed.

The Zodiac thing is not mine, it's an idea that I've come across and decided to go with it. This is in no way to offend anyone.

Chapter Fourteen

~~~JACOB~~~

December:

Progress. I could see it and feel it.

As the days passed, Sebastian has come to understand my flaws just as much as I have with him. Our discussions usually fell upon his dad and how frustrated he was with him. It always came to the topic of me, and how much Edward hated me even more. I figured after leaving Bella alone and finding my own true love would ease him off, but I can understand how he feels that it's his own son.

But it's not like it was my choice.

Edward knows I can't control it, but he's still hell-bent on making things go his way. There are times I do feel like stepping out of the picture for a bit for Sebastian and Edward to make that father/son connection –but I don't know if I can. I don't think Seb can either. Like I said: progress, and progress means that our bond was getting stronger by the day.

Seth had even talked to him. But I don't think it helped much either. Though before, it did upset me that Seth and Edward's friendship grew just as strong as the one I had with my pack mate in the beginning, but now I'm more than happy that Seth can talk to Edward without Edward having one of his senior moments.

But instead of my ill-tempered self that I used to be, I promised myself that I would try my best to make Sebastian's life a bit easier, to make it a bit more tolerable for him and not seem like I was being too clingy. But then he began to assume that I was upset with him; that I was avoiding him at any cost. I told him that I figured he needed time with his other family without me constantly hovering by his side. That's when he made a clear notion that I now understand.

If his family were to ever accept me, and if my pack were ever to accept him fully, they needed to get used of us being around each other. I still wasn't sure if we were dating, but I guess this was the beginning of it.

I didn't want to push him into anything, and I gave him my word that we'd go at his pace. But I think he was just as confused as I was. There were stolen kisses; rarely on the lips, but still kisses that I found myself to love and crave. I don't think Sebastian would realize it until after he had done it, and most of the time it was on my cheeks. Most of the time it was in private, and rarely around people.

The thing is; I'm not sure if it bothered me either.

Sebastian was only thirteen, but he sure didn't look like it. Which kind of brings me to Quil. I've always asked my best friend for advice, and I asked him if his feelings for Claire had intensified yet. They haven't. He still sees the girl as his little sister practically, which kind of worries him. I questioned him about it; his reply followed with him being worried that the guilt for falling for her would plague him the moment Claire would want to take the next step in their friendship.

It leads me to believe that the boundaries of our imprints and the pace of them are entirely different. I felt guilty at times when I would dream of ravishing Sebastian loving kisses and fantasize about taking what we have much further than I planned. Here Quil was pulling himself away from Claire day by day to break that line of practical sibling love for her, just so he wouldn't have that guilt for when he knew the girl would want to be his girlfriend. Claire had already been dangling on Quil's side and been flirting with him, and we all see it, but Quil's still conflicted over it.

And here I am. Just as confused as he is. Claire is sixteen and most likely questioning Quil's intentions of their friendship now. It makes me wonder if Sebastian ever has thoughts of going further. Or should have I just pulled away again until I felt he was ready.

But I couldn't. I can't. I tend to forget that not only was Sebastian my imprint, but he was the alpha's imprint. A stronger bond than any others, and looked to be more sacred than any of the pack's imprints. It even gave me headaches for even thinking of leaving his side again. My urges couldn't be doused unless Sebastian was close, and my insistency to protect him was higher than anything I've ever experienced. It was frightening to say and think that I would put anyone's life before his, even mine.

I think the pack knew of this too, which is why they've seemed to be coming around more than often. Not only had I found myself pulling Seb closer to me whenever the others were around, but now it was as if none of my pack brother's was allowed near him. I wouldn't let them. Sam explained that it would get stronger and stronger until the day we made our bond official, even then… I probably still wouldn't let anyone near him.

I didn't want Seb thinking that I was becoming possessive over him because I knew he wouldn't be too pleased to find that I was becoming obsessive. It was a difficult fight with my inner wolf. One that I felt I was losing this time.

If I could just mark him.

Another thought that bothered me. In the beginning, I figured I was becoming some sick obsessed asshole that wanted to taste him in every way, but after Sam, Jared and Paul explained that it was a natural feeling; I soon came to realize that I was in more of need for him.

Even though it was an uncomfortable topic to discuss with them, Sam and the other's explained that they have marked their imprints in places that no one could see. It was more intimate than anything they based their relationship on. It was ways letting anyone supernatural and human know that they were already taken. The problem was, the more I question whether I wanted to mark Seb, the more I realized that it was all I thought about.

I thought I knew everything about being a shape-shifter, and every day I was learning more and more about it.

I guess the only thing that helped get my mind off of the urge to claim Seb as mine, were the odd nomads passing through or newborns that crossed our path's untamed. It was a way to help me relieve the stress I had been facing. Killing leeches just seemed ease it a bit. But… it kind of bothered me now.

Knowing just exactly what my imprint was, it made me think of all the dangers he could be in. What if he did go with his coven and tried to leave me behind. I couldn't bare the thought of any other pack hunting him down and killing him because I couldn't protect him. It seems I had way too much time to think of all the negative things rather than hope for the positive.

It did help get my mind off of this bullshit with Christmas coming. With all the rain and wet snow, it had become more difficult to track any leeches, but then again, they hardly breezed through these lands because of the weather. It was said to us several times that around this time they migrated more towards Canada in the winter months. It was just easier for them to hide in the snow because it sparkled in the sunlight just as much as they did.

So instead of worrying about things that I shouldn't bother with, I had problems with what I should get Sebastian for a gift. I asked Emily and Rachel, but they weren't sure either. I tried to watch Seb and see what interested him the most, but everything that had, he already had.

Then I thought about something personal, something that I could just make him with my own hands, but then I remembered the times that I had done that for Bella, which makes me regret all of it. If I could take back the wolf charm-bracelet, or the dream catcher, I would. I knew Sebastian would love it, but it wouldn't be our thing. I wanted whatever that I could think of to be personal between the two of us, and time was running short.

December 21

Charlie and Sue invited me along with Seth and Leah to their house for Christmas, and I still had nothing for Sebastian. It was easy to find something for Seth and Sue and Charlie, but Sebastian was still a big question mark for me. It did bring me some sort of relief to find that he hadn't found anything for me either.

I asked Charlie in hopes that he just might have a clue, but that was a dead end. Even Seth was clueless. It didn't do me good to be reminded that practically anything Sebastian could want, his parents could buy it for him without even putting a dent in their bank account.

I was beginning to freak out.

To get my mind off of my biggest problem, Sue had the entire pack putting up her Christmas lights while the others decorated the inside. I just didn't think I could have a ball putting lights up with my imprint; somehow Seb made the day tolerable and a bit eventful. I couldn't help but chuckle every time he'd get Seth back with a slushy snowball, or even bringing out the kid in Paul just as he chased the two in circles around the house joining in on the snowball fight.

They had us all in on it by the end of the night.

"Would you mind spending the night?" It surprised me for him to ask me, usually he doesn't, usually he doesn't have to.

"Yeah" Is all I could mutter.

Of course Charlie raised his concerns about the sleepover, and I was sure my promise to keep it clean wouldn't work, but it had. It wasn't as if we officially stepped it up a notch either; like I said, we just kissed. So it did make me wonder why Sebastian felt he needed to ask me this time.

"I was sure Grandpa was about to lay some threats." Seb chuckled as he led me upstairs to the room. I just smiled.

It was always moments like this that made the days worthwhile. Any chance to be close to Seb, was any moment I was willing to take. The coolness of his skin was always enough to simmer down my high temperatures, and he always voiced out how much he enjoyed the warmth of my arms over any blanket. If I could give that to him whenever he asked, I would. It was times like these that made me sure that we are in fact meant to be. I'm the yin to his yang.

"I've been thinking." Seb muttered as he lay next to me with my arm wrapped around him. "After graduation…"

"What about it?" I asked reluctantly.

"Of what I want to do." He murmured. "I keep thinking that I have to race off to college right after the summer, but then I remember that I have my entire life to do so. I just don't think I'm ready to leave this behind when I've just grown accustomed to it."

"You can't let us hold you back from what you want to do, especially me." I replied with honesty. "I want to see you succeed and do what you want."

"I know that." He sighed. "I just want to hold onto this for a little while longer. I want to continue to get to know the others for at least another year or so. I don't want to be the reason for you to leave the pack behind so soon."

"I told you that it wouldn't matter to me…"

"I know, you've said that several times." He leaned in closer, "but I want you to enjoy it too. I do want to move on, and even though you say you'll come with me, I'm okay with it now." He paused for a moment, "it's just, now… I don't think I could leave you behind even if I tried."

"You won't need to."

"I know." He giggled, "What I'm trying to say is that… wherever you go, I'll go to. If that means you need to stay here with the pack for a couple more years, then I'll stay with you."

"You really mean it?" I asked unsure.

"Haven't been more serious in my life." He pulled me closer to him. "I just can't imagine being without you now."

In the small amount of time we've been around each other, we were already making promises a couple would; the only problem was, we weren't exactly a couple yet. I've asked him again, but preferred to hold of any titles until he was sure. Right now; I was his best friend. Something I was happy to be.

So what really was holding us back other than the age gap? I wanted nothing but to finally get my happily ever after, to finally what my used-to-be best friends has. But something told me that I would never fully get that. Days I used to dream about having a family, and it used to be with Bella and a couple kids on the way, but now… I can't see anything close to it.

I've said it several times, and I believe that in those times it was to convince myself that I could always be happy. But there is always that doubt that lingers and waits for me to fall apart at any second. Life without Sebastian seems unbearable, but there's that part that reminds me that Sebastian could never give something I had always dreamed about. I've been reminded about adoption and surrogacy, but none of that amount to the bond I wish I could share with Sebastian. There would always be that missing link that we have that the rest of the pack has.

I can't hide it from him either; he has a talent for reading my body. He speaks my language and I can feel how disappointed he is, how it bothers him that I will never have that satisfaction. It really does make me question the imprint.

But then, there are always days like that. Some of me and my assurance that the imprint has purpose, and the other part of me is convinced that somewhere in the supernatural realm, we've been mistakenly placed with each other. A dead end that neither of us was sure we could withstand. I worried at times I would grow tired of my imprint and decide that it was enough, and a part of me tells me that it's not normal. I should have pure adoration for Sebastian, so why does it feel wrong at times?

None of it made sense.

December 24

I still hadn't a clue.

The Christmas cheer was definitely spreading throughout the Swan household, and day in and out Sue had everyone running errands for her. It was usually for me and Seb to run to the grocery store or delivering the annual Christmas cake gifts to the neighbors back on the reservation. I was somewhat zoned out through the whole thing to enjoy the holiday with Seb.

I remember the smiles. I always remember the smiles. And the laughter. It was refreshing to see him with such joy and freedom. I think he enjoyed our moments spent with each other just as much as I had. I knew I could listen to his giggle all day, or feel the coolness of his porcelain skin, or the content sighs he gives me once I wrap my arms around his shoulder.

He hasn't heard so much from his parents lately seeing how Bella thought it might be best to give Sebastian some space, but in my opinion; it was the most selfish thing they could do to him. Seb was good at hiding his feelings, but a part of him being my imprint; I knew that it bothered him that only Emmett and the blonde showed up. If I wasn't such a distraction for him, I'm sure that he would be in depression mode again, and that's something I wasn't about to allow.

It did help to free both of our minds as we deliver the last of Sue's orders, and Seb seemed amused by just how friendly everyone was towards him now. I do feel a tinge of guilt for being the reason for it though. I told the council that if anyone were to treat Sebastian in any inappropriate manner, would be hearing from me. Sam knew the importance of my rule and spread the word.

After bringing Sebastian back home, I decided I'd check the native tourist place owned by one of my dad's cousins. I asked him if he would be able to help me with any ideas for a gift and he offered me to stop by and see what we could come up with. I was a bit nervous to say so myself. I had only about another hour before I could find something and get back to Sebastian and the rest of the group. I didn't want Sebastian knowing that I still hadn't found a thing for him.

I'm not sure to why I felt nervous about this. It wasn't as if Seb was even expecting anything from me, hell; I wasn't even sure if he bought me anything. But still, I wanted it to be special for him in anyway possible. I guess that's what was really sending my nerves in a frenzy. Perfection was the key.

Just in time, I had reached the store the same time James had. The man was in his mid-forties and married with a couple kids I hardly knew. I wasn't sure if he knew much about the tribe and it's legends, but I could only imagine that it had interested him seeing how a lot of the stuff he sold were almost artifacts.

He greeted me as I stepped out of the truck. His hair long and braided down his back, black as coal, skin a little darker than mine, and a lot shorter than I was. He was known for his torn-sleeved plaid shirts and faded jeans with the hiking boots. That is what he considered style.

After opening the door and giving a shiver before letting me know that he would be turning up the heat, he left me to myself to take a look around. I came across the wall that hung different sizes of dream catchers with various amount of colors and beads and feathers hanging from them. I was almost tempted to just buy one for him, but I couldn't help but feel guilty for repeating it, especially it being something I had given to his mother with friendship. The gift had to be as original as it could get.

I was beginning to become frustrated with the tiny trinkets I had come across and the several different books and native design notebooks that I'm sure Seb already read or had. It almost seemed as if I had reached a dead end. I was about to give up until James had called me to the counter.

"May I ask who you're giving this gift to?" He asked with curiousity.

I wasn't so sure how to answer. "It's for a special friend." I shrugged.

"Girlfriend?" He grinned foolishly; I shook my head. "Boyfriend?" I guess he caught my slight discomfort over the topic and let out a chuckle, "I am not here to judge you Jacob –love is love."

I gave another shrug and half-smile. "I'm not entirely sure what we are, just that I know that he is special to me."

"Well let's take a look at these." He called me over just as he reached under the counter and began to pull out a large case. He turned it before opening it to reveal several necklaces with pendants of different colors. On the base of the case were descriptions of animals that had written above it 'Native Zodiac.'

"Are these actually legitimate?" I asked a bit concerned.

"Some like to believe in it, mostly those who search for compatibility." He chuckled before standing next t me. "Each animal symbolizes the mannerisms of the individual born during the timespan of the year. For example, when is this person's birthday."

"September eleventh."

"The eleventh," he mumbled to himself as he reviewed the board, "from what it says here, he's the bear."

"The bear?" I cocked a brow, "that's the least I expected." I admitted.

"Well as strong as the bear is," he continued, "it says that the Bear is also gifted with an enormous heart, and a penchant for generosity. However, one might not know it, as the Bear tends to be very modest, and a bit shy. Though the bear might be level-headed and would make a great teacher, they can tend to be impatient at times."

Most of it did sound compatible with Sebastian, but some of it didn't, but it was close enough to be him. I skimmed through the medallions and found that each of them was heart-shaped with two different animals in a haida fashion.

"Let's see what you are… a goose?"

"I'll get this one." I couldn't keep my sights off of the silver pendent with the wolf and bear, "this one seems more compatible than anything."

"Does the goose shame you?" He mocked with a chuckle. "It says they're actually very determined individuals."

"The wolf and the bear." I repeated.

"Very well." He nodded grabbing the pendent and wrapping it with tissue paper, "so, how long have you and this fella been together?"

"Umm…" I muttered. Whether the topic was uncomfortable to talk about, or just that I haven't said much of it to anyone; I didn't know how to put it. "We're more of friends right now." I shrugged.

"Does it bother you for people to ask?" He continued packing the necklace. I shrugged again. "You know," he sighed while handing me the bag, "it's said that in ancient times when tribes knew nothing about sexuality, same-sex couples were highly respected in tribes. Not sure why or if it applies to the Quileutes, but I found it to be interesting when I came across it."

"Really?" I gave him a curious look.

"I mean, I wouldn't disrespect it," he shrugged as I handed him the money. "It had to have meant something if a man falls for a man or a woman for a woman. I don't think the creator makes mistakes, or the spirits for that matter."

"Yeah." I smiled at the thought, "thanks James."

"No problem Jacob." He replied, "maybe one day I can meet this special guy."

"Yeah," I shook his hand, "maybe."

It did give me some relief to hear his wise words. Especially about the spirits never making a mistake, there was always a plausible reason, and I'm sure that I wasn't the first chief to fall for another man. My father didn't seem bothered with it from the beginning, so why couldn't the others see in his perspectives.

Just as I returned to Seb's, everyone was beginning to settle in the living room. Sue with Charlie on the recliner, Seth and Leah on the couch next to me and Sebastian, and Paul with Rachel on the floor. Thankfully my sister was there to wrap the gift and give me props for the gift idea, she loved it in fact.

After the laughs and great conversations, we called it a night headed to bed. I had to admit that I haven't been this happy since my dad passed, spending Christmas eve with the family felt just like we had with my sisters and my parents, they really did make it feel like home.

By the time the morning broke through Seb had already been awake and probably in the kitchen with Sue and the others. I could smell the breakfast foods permeate throughout the house, and I couldn't help but smile over the fact that for the rest of my life, Christmas morning would be just as great as this one.

By the time breakfast was finished, Charlie had us all gather in the living area around the tree to open our gifts. I was a nervous wreck when it came time for me to give Sebastian his gift, and thankfully he loved it. The sparkle in his eye, the smile on his lips, the blush that covered his porcelain cheeks, were enough to make me smile like a fool.

The gift he gave me was something I had never expected. It was a book. A notebook written with poems and short stories that replicated the moments we had spent together. I had no clue just how much those moments meant to him, and him writing them down for me was his way of saying just how much he appreciated it. I couldn't help but embrace him in my arms. The gift was perfect.

He's perfect.

A/N: The Native American Zodiac is loosely based from a website online, sorry forgot the name. But I just thought I would let you know. On another note, the next chapter is when I believe the plot to pick up, it really depends how I can put it up.

Big thanks to the reviewers lytebrytehybrid88, brokenxv, BurnedSpy, Hank's Lady, Ana, Demon2Angel, Shalette, drad101, hopelessromantic5, FreeSpirit15 and nt52. Also, thanks to those who favored and alerted.

Much Love,

TurnItUp03