Chapter seventeen: Until the end.

There was nothing in this world I wanted more than to relish in her touch. There was not a single thing that anyone could have given me where I'd trade places when I was with her again. I would have given everything I had, my life included, my status as a vampire, anything just to tell her how much I loved her, how much I would always love her.

But I couldn't.

Ever since I had entered Renesmee's life, I had brought her nothing but pain and suffering. I was currently dragging her through hell because of my past; something that should have died a long time ago. She didn't deserve to be branded as the Volturi were. She wasn't like us. She wasn't sinful. She didn't deserve to be hated, all because she loved me.

She deserved better, I was sure of that. I knew I should have been brave enough to tell her I loved her. But I couldn't. I couldn't risk pulling her under, when she deserved a life I could never bring her.

And so, because I wasn't brave enough to tell her I loved her; I had to be brave enough to watch her love someone else. That was what she deserved. It was because I loved her that I had to let her go.

The hours ticked on by as I watched her in her room. The night faded, and the daylight took over. A flimsy, dark grey day that threatened to rain. Students began to make their way across the campus, talking about parties and the soon-to-be-freshmen of their everyday lives.

All I could do was sit back and watch as their lives commenced on. Staying in the shadows, where I belonged. Watching as she too got up and went out to explore what her life was going to be like. She put on a brave face, I'd give her that. She seemed like the happiest girl in the world. Talking, smiling, laughing with her friends. Walking hand in hand with Gary - which still bothered me. But I wouldn't allow myself to be caught up in that again.

She needed to move on; even if I couldn't. It was what I owed her, after everything I had said to her.

In the beginning, Renesmee was playing it cool. As if nothing had changed. She was acting exactly the way I would have expected her to act. Pretending nothing happened, and acting as though everything was alright between her and her friends. Then the afternoon came in, and I could see a visible change in her attitude.

She began to look around - for me - and ask her friends if any of them had seen me around. I knew I said I would be 'lingering' to her friends, but I didn't entirely mean I'd be on the actual campus. Renesmee was up to something, and it was beginning to grate on my nerves not knowing what it was; especially with how she kept bringing me up to her friends.

'Alec did this' or 'Alec used to do that.'

She was supposed to be getting over me, for Christ sake. Not bring me up all the time. It was as if she was trying to provoke me into showing face again. The boy who had tried to kiss her, Finn, was paying her a severe amount of attention. And she was returning that attention with smiles, playful touches of hands and laughter. After what I said to her, she was still encouraging his advances.

Even when she would be walking with Gary, hand in hand, he would be close at her side; talking to her. Yes, I wanted her to move on; and this boy seemed like the perfect fit. If only she could have heard everything I had last night.

But I knew men like him.

He only wanted her because of her face, because of her way about life, because he couldn't have her. The reason I knew this was because I myself was exactly like him. I wanted what I couldn't have. I had always enjoyed the thrill of a challenge, or the feeling of pride in myself when I eventually got it. But that aside, once I got what I had wanted; I lost interest. But he was also a lot like Demetri. Sleeping around, evidently, and losing interest.

I would not stand by and watch Renesmee endure that. Not again.

I would slaughter anyone, and anything that dare held the desire to hurt her. She had been through enough. Saying that, everyone seemingly had the potential to hurt her. I knew that; but I didn't trust this boy. Not in the slightest.

If it were possible, I presumed I would only feel comfortable watching her be with Gary; though I figured that was because I knew he held no sexual interest in Renesmee whatsoever. It was selfish of me, yes. But it was true. As much as I wanted her to move on and love someone else; the thought of it sickened me.

The thought of Finn touching her sickened me.

The thought of any one else touching her sickened me.

"I really wanna go to that English Lit class," Renesmee was saying to Gary. "Please, please, please can we go?"

"But Renaroo," That was his nickname for her? This Gary may have been a handsome young fellow; but his choices in nicknames certainly gave away his sexual preference. "Charlie's got this whole day planned out at the oak tree. We can't miss it."

"Alec would have taken me."

There it was again.

Did she know I was watching? Was she doing this just to get to me, because she knew that statement was true? If Renesmee wanted something, I tried my damned hardest to make it happen. Why else would I have endured that time at high school, or endured reading lines with her to a play I knew off by heart? I had only done those things because she wanted too.

"I'll take you," Finn suggested. "English Lit is actually pretty interesting."

"Really?" Renesmee beamed up at him. I didn't like that smile at all. Not with what this boy was clearly thinking. He had it written all over his face. "I guess. I'll see you after the class?"

Gary sighed, visibly exasperated and nodded. He leant down and kissed Renesmee's cheek; and let go of her hand. I watched as the two of them separated from the group; with Finn shouting towards them that they wouldn't be long.

That was a lie. The class itself was at least an hour and a half long. In my book, that was a long time. Especially for a human. I was all for sitting back and watching her live her life. I was all for watching her move on. Until she linked her arm with Finn's and smiled up at him.

I peeled off my cloak; leaving me in my jeans and shirt and swiftly placed the remaining contacts I had in my pocket into my eyes. Tossing the container aside, I wasted no time in re-emerging into the campus life.

Swiftly making my way through the small crowds until I met up with the two of them.

"Good afternoon Renesmee," I voiced, walking at ease beside Renesmee. "Finn."

I could feel her eyes on me. They were wide, and no doubt pissed off. I refused to look down at them, in fear of what I might see.

"I didn't expect to see you around after last night." Renesmee said.

"Something as small like that won't keep me away." I answered with a shrug. "Arguments happen all the time."

"You guys argued?" Finn asked, trying to pry his way into the conversation.

"A little disagreement in our views." I stated.

"Yep. I view Alec as an asshole, and he doesn't."

Well played, Renesmee. Well played. Although we might've built bridges; they were still under construction. She was evidently still bitter due to our little spat.

"Right..." Finn cleared his throat awkwardly. "So, where you off too Alec?"

"English literature building. I heard they're doing a lecture on Romeo and Juliet. I can't help but adore that play. It brings back so many fond memories, isn't that right Renesmee?"

The glare I received off Renesmee was one I'd cherish forever. She obviously wanted to play a game with me. She had been the one to provoke me out of the shadows. And if it was a game she wanted to play; then I was willing. She was not giving her heart to this boy. I'd kill him first.

"Sweet. That's where we're heading as well." Finn grinned at me.

As genuine as that smile was, I felt as though I could just rip it off his face. Instead, I would play Renesmee at her own game. She wanted to play games with Finn to get at me, I would play games right back. I'd befriend this kid, and let her believe it wasn't getting to me.

It was highly childish the game we were about to set up and play; but I didn't see any way other than doing it. I wouldn't confront her. I had said what I needed, and she obviously wanted to play with fire; rather than face it with the maturity I'd have hoped she'd have gained by now.

"I'll just sit with you both then." I smiled right back, letting my eyes drop to Renesmee.

The look I got back told me everything I needed.

Screw maturity. The games had begun.

—xXx—

"What day is it?" Scott asked, kicking a stone at his foot.

"Wednesday." Damien answered, impassively sitting besides Shay on the floor. She was watching Mary; playing with the grass between her toes again.

Delilah was a few meters away; smoking. Ryan was beside her, talking to her. From what the others could hear; he was scolding her little habit. He was one to talk, really. It was only a matter of time before people grew tired of him continuously munching on human food.

In Delilah's defence, she didn't see why she couldn't smoke. 'It's not gonna kill me,' she'd use as her defence. No one could really argue with her on that one.

However, Lilianna growing tired of her smoking might kill her.

"Do you need to head out again tonight?" Damien asked. This was his first attempt at trying to hold up a conversation, Scott realized.

"Yeah." Scott nodded. "Lils' is being dead strict that me and Delilah head out every night. No idea why though."

"Someone had to keep watch on these threats." Damien mused, his eyes turning to look at Shay as she twitched her own feet forward; trying to push them closer to the grass. Damien looked away from her and back to Scott.

Scott looked over his shoulder, checking on Ryan and Delilah - who were now hand in hand; doing that 'little world' thing. Delilah really needed to watch out for that. The less physical contact that went on between her and Ryan, the better the chances of Lilianna never finding out. That was how he had to do it with Mary, back in the day. Now... Now he was thankful that was a thing of the past; and Lilianna expected Mary to be the cuddling type. For Delilah, that was a different matter.

Delilah was using her gift on Ryan, evidently; and they were oblivious to everything around them. Or that is what it seemed like to Scott. He had no idea it was the other way around, and it was Ryan showing her things. Nevertheless, Scott took his chance.

"Hey, Damien..." The raven haired boy looked back up to Scott. Shay had continuously kept stealing his attention. The smallest of movements of her feet would cause him to look back at her. He was tempted to tell her to just go try it, but he knew it would be no good. If he was around, Shay rarely ever left his side. "Have you noticed something?"

"With...?"

"Delilah... She's been awfully weird lately. Opening up, trying to bring us all closer and stuff."

Damien shrugged his shoulders. "I haven't paid much attention."

Scott sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "Maybe it's just me then."

"I never said I didn't notice. I just didn't pay attention to it. But yes... Delilah has been acting oddly out of character lately."

Scott shuffled himself a little closer. Mary had finally caught on to Shay watching her, and was offering her hand for her to come join her. Shay looked to Damien, who nodded his head in agreement. Why was she asking his permission, Scott didn't know.

"I wanna ask her, but I'm scared it'll push her back into her shell." Scott plonked himself down beside Damien. His long legs spread out in front of him, while Damien was content in sitting with his legs crossed.

"D'you think I should ask her?"

Damien pursed his lips, and slowly nodded his head. "It may scare her back; but she may just open up a little more. You just have to take the chance, Scott. Life is about the choices we make, isn't it?"

Yeah, that was true, Scott thought. But he hadn't made very good choices in both of his lifes. He hid away from the world, hiding in the shadows with his mother. He ultimately ended up falling in love with a girl who was supposed to be his sister, and now he was part of something a lot more complicated than what Lilianna was letting on.

He wasn't sure what it was, but he could sense danger approaching.

"D'you think it might be something to do with the Volturi being around?"

"It may be." Damien nodded. "Perhaps she is opening up because she is fearful of the boy Lilianna wishes to bring in. After all, you did say she seemed a little skittish when his name was to come up."

"She still is. But it isn't... The same, I don't think."

"Then ask her when you are out." Damien suggested. "There is no harm in asking."

With his eyes moving over to Delilah, coming out of her little dream with Ryan smiling and laughing, Scott nodded his head. "You're right. I'll ask her..."

Delilah slowly made her way over; baring the largest smile Scott had ever seen her wear. Ryan walked behind her, though he was always smiling - so that didn't count. She stood and placed her hands behind her back as she looked down to Damien and Scott.

"I was thinking we could head out earlier tonight? I need to feed, so we can meet up again after I've ate."

Scott knew that she had this complex about eating in front of people. Ryan had explained it was something she suffered with as a human, and he just presumed it had grown into a habit of hers. If only Ryan would develop that habit and stop eating human food in front of them.

Scott nodded his head and glanced to Damien, who shrugged his shoulders. Standing himself up, Ryan sat himself down beside Damien and entered the little small talk gene they both usually went into. It was mainly about t-shirts, and other crap like that.

"I'll go tell Lilianna we're heading out now." Said Delilah in a chirpy tone, moving to walk past them all and back into the house. A few of the others moved out into the yard; joining them in their little retreat outside. Couldn't blame them. Lilianna only let them have a certain amount of time outside anyway.

"Hey, Scott;" Ryan said. "Keep an eye on her, right? When she goes off hunting, I noticed she comes back smelling different."

"Smelling of the victims? Thats usual."

"No, this smells sweet enough to be like blood, or something like that... But you know for a fact that isn't what it is too, right?"

It was sweet enough to be blood? That was all anyone ever smelt of when coming back from hunting. The blood would most likely spill and stain their clothes. Scott could remember how badly it caused him to go crazy in his newborn days. The stench of blood coming off his clothes, causing his throat to burn twice as much. It took a hell of a lot of practice to ensure they got every last drop from the bodies. Delilah was one of the ones who could make sure didn't spill anything...

So why would she smell of something sweet?

Scott reluctantly nodded his head. "What about her 'don't-watch-me' thing?"

"Screw it." Ryan answered. "Just make sure she's safe, alright? If she doesn't catch you, then she doesn't have to know. Do it for me, buddy. Please?"

"Alright." Scott nodded, causing the end of that conversation.

Just in time too, for Delilah walked out; humming to herself.

"Ready to go?" She asked.

"Sure." Scott answered, quickly crossing over to Mary and planting a kiss onto her forehead. "Stay outta trouble."

"No promises," Mary giggled, then returned to her little game with Shay.

With one last look to Ryan and Damien, who both were stressing their eyes at him. Damien with his 'talk to her' look, and Ryan with his 'watch over her.'

He nodded to them both one final time, and took off into the trees with Delilah. If she wanted to hunt, Scott was going to be there too; whether she knew it or not.

—xXx—

This was like a game of piggy in the middle. I'd have prefered it if I were sitting where Renesmee were, honestly. That way I could be able to separate her from Finn; but I didn't have that luxury. She was sat in the middle. Finn on her right, and me on her left.

I wasn't blind to her looking between the both of us; but I paid no attention to it. Only every now and then I would turn my head to look down at her; causing her to look away again.

She didn't want to get caught looking at me. Well, that was... Oddly cute.

The lecturer was one who had previously lived in London, England and studied Shakespeare for many, many years. It was rather impressive to listen too, if I were honest. A mere human being so knowledgeable with Shakespeare; almost as knowledgeable as I was. I had taken me years to get where I was after studying him, although I presumed that was due to the gaps I took in between each study I did of the playwright.

This human didn't have that advantage, but he had done well. I could hear the passion he had for this writer when everything he spoke; and if it wasn't for Renesmee sitting beside me, I might've given him my complete and utter attention.

But she was sitting beside me, and she was looking to me every now and then.

For what was the fifth time in half an hour, I turned my head to look at her.

Again, she looked away and crossed her arms. Huffing, was she?

I fought the smirk wishing to break out. Slowly, I leant myself closer to her and whispered: "You ought to be more subtle if you plan on staring at someone."

"I wasn't staring." She hissed. "I was merely looking if you were still interested and... I wanted to make sure you didn't fall asleep."

I scoffed. "Renesmee... Think about that statement for a moment."

She did, and I watched in amusement as the irritation grew on her face. She didn't answer me, however.

"We need to talk." I eventually whispered, resting my chin onto my fisted hand.

"We did enough talking yesterday."

"No," I shook my head gently. "We did enough yelling. I think its time handle this like adults, don't you?"

"Why?" She turned to look at me again. "We fixed everything yesterday."

"There is a reason I am warning you about him, Renesmee."

"Because you're jealous that it isn't you."

Yes, that was partly true. "I don't trust him."

"Because you're jealous."

Did she like just repeating it? The fact I had admitted I was jealous? I had said I was jealous over Gary. Not Finn. There was nothing for me to be jealous over, other than the fact he had Renesmee's attention. He was nothing but a... Breathe Alec. Breathe.

"Renesme-"

"Is there a problem up there in the back?"

We had been caught. Evidently, our voices had risen with our little quarrel. Finn, who had been oblivious to us talking was now looking at her again. In fact, half of the lecturing hall was now looking back and watching.

Renesmee's face, on cue, flushed a vibrant red.

I cleared my throat and shook my head. "No, no."

"Is it something you wish to share with the entire hall?"

"Only that I was reminding her of her role in the Romeo and Juliet play a few years ago. Nothing more."

His interest peaked, and I could feel Renesmee glaring at me. Her hand had moved from her chest to my hand. She was digging her nails into my skin; but it didn't so much as phase me. I was getting to her, so that must mean I was winning this little game between us, right?

I did enjoy winning. I always had.

"Shut. Up." She hissed through her teeth.

"Oh? What role?" The lecturer asked, adjusting the thick framed glasses to his face.

"Juliet's mother, however the offer to play Juliet was on the table for her. She refused, sadly." I turned to look down at her again. Yup, still glaring.

"I only refused because he wouldn't play Romeo. Even the teacher said it was because my acting wouldn't have been good without him counteracting it. His knowledge on Shakespeare was some of the greatest my teachers had ever seen. He loves Shakespeare. He knows the play by heart."

It was my turn to spare her a look. Only, it wasn't to glare at her. It was more so to the point because she remembered that far back. She could remember the reason as to why she didn't get that part, even though I knew it was highly bias. Renesmee would have made a wonderful Juliet, no matter who got the role of her love interest.

I never did admit it, but I was glad when she wasn't portraying the heroine of that play. Even back then, when we were nothing but friends - just like we were trying, and failing at being currently - it bothered me to think of someone else kissing her.

But what also got me stunned; was she remembered my interest in his plays. No one, besides Jane, really took interest in what I did to spend my spare time, nor what I enjoyed.

"By heart now, hm?" The lecturer hummed, arching a thick brow behind his dark glasses. "Would you like to take over this lecture?"

Renesmee was grinning, and I knew why.

"No, no. Continue." I bowed my head.

He did exactly that, while Renesmee and I slumped back into the chairs; grinning to ourselves.

"Not the first time you've been asked that, huh?" Renesmee whispered.

"Seems it's a habit of mine to show my superiors up." I commented back.

She let out a little giggle and relaxed back into the chair. It was a few minutes that went by that I realized her hand was still upon mine. Holding it tenderly and gently. Although I should have, I didn't move it. I played stupid, and acted as if I didn't notice the contact; even though my skin felt as though it was burning with her touch.

I never meant what I said, you know. I don't hate you.

Renesmee's voice whispered in my mind. I automatically felt my eyes close. She had no idea just how... Good it felt to feel her voice in there again; for real and it not being my imagination. I had missed seeing her dreams, I had missed hearing her voice. I had missed her, and now that I had it all there in front of me; it was killing me not to take her. To have her as my own again.

But it was the right thing I was doing. Being with her was dangerous for so many reasons. Jane may see me as oblivious to the matter; but I wasn't as out of the loop with Aro's plans as she'd think. I knew what he had originally intended in inviting her to Volterra. He was going to offer her the choice to stay with me, which Renesmee would have taken - I knew that for a fact.

Not only would he have gained Renesmee, but I had no doubt in my mind that Renesmee's family would have joined on also; causing Aro to gain each and every single member he had wanted for a very, very long time. Edward, Alice and even Bella.

He wanted to use this girls love for me as a way in getting what he's always desired; and I was not letting that happen. Renesmee wouldn't be able to bare the life we did. I wouldn't stand back and watch her become half the monster as I was. She was perfect the way she was, and I wanted her to stay that way.

Even if it meant I couldn't be with her.

"I know." I whispered, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "You don't have to apologize again."

But I'm sorry for everything I said and did. I shouldn't have... Can we... Try to be better friends?

I turned my head to look at her and suppressed the urge to sigh.

It wasn't that I didn't want to be friends. I did a great deal. But more than that, I wanted exactly that. I wanted to be more with her; and that was something I just couldn't do.

"Always." I nodded.

She let out a gentle smile, and squeezed my hand tighter. Her head tilted to rest against my shoulder, while she let out a gentle breath.

And forever.

In the corner of my eye, I could see Finn glaring.

Inside my own head, I was having a little victory celebration. If this boy wanted Renesmee, he would need to try harder. There was no way in hell I was allowing him to be the one for her, if I myself couldn't be.

—xXx—

It was close to sundown. It wouldn't be long until she had to go find Alec and let him know her progress in postponing the attack. She had managed to do it, and for some reason... She felt excited in telling him. With her managing to do as he asked, perhaps it would reassure him that she was on their side; and she wasn't planning on double crossing them.

The Volturi would be the successors through this, Delilah knew that. Although Lilianna's growth in newborns with gifts were off the scale amazing; they didn't stand a chance against these highly trained immortals; who were twice as old as them. They were trained in ways that not even Delilah could comprehend. Going up against them was suicide. She knew that now. But Lilianna didn't seem to care about that. All she wanted was Alec, and it was apparent he didn't care.

He had no interest in joining their coven, and he never had.

All of this wasn't to win him over. This was to force him to join them. This was stripping him of everything he cared about, and leaving him with no choice but to be with them. It was sick and twisted what she wanted to do; but she didn't care.

She didn't care about the lives she was ruining. She didn't care about the lives that would be lost, and lately; Delilah was beginning to believe that she didn't care about them at all. Even though she tried to show them that she did.

Delilah wasn't sure what to believe anyone, when it came to Lilianna. This mess had just gotten worse, and worse from the beginning. Lilianna was out for her 'happily ever after' that much was clear, but did she honestly believe that is how it would end? Delilah doubted that Alec would join them even if they were to succeed in killing off the Volturi and the Cullen's.

Delilah knew for a fact that if it was her in Alec's shoes, she wouldn't join them.

She would no doubt set out to end her own life; just to be with the ones she cared for.

"You goin' hunting now?" Scott asked. For a small moment there, Delilah had almost forgotten that he was even there. He had been that quiet throughout their time.

"Would it be alright if I did?" She asked in return. "I'm... Starving."

"Sure." Scott nodded his head gently.

She flashed him a smile and waved a hand in salute. "I'll be back soon."

Scott nodded yet again, and watched as she took off over the rooftops. He waited for half a minute before he took on after her; using his gift to shield his own tracks rather than hers also. He kept himself hidden, but followed after her little trail.

Delilah was going to the deeper side of the city, where there were more people. Wasn't it a rule of theirs that they had to keep a low profile? To only eat the low-lives of this day and age? That had been one thing Lilianna had ensured they do; to which everyone practically complied. They would most likely be in the center, yes; but in Alabama - the most common red light district wasn't in the city center. It was more to the outskirts.

The path continued until Delilah dropped down out of Scott's sight, and he took a hesitant approach.

Landing swiftly on her feet, Delilah leant herself against a wall. It wouldn't be long now. Alec would be here, and she could let him in with the good news. Scott kept well out of sight, and close enough to hear.

Delilah was just standing there. Motionless. What the hell was she doing?

The sound of footsteps caught hold of both of their attentions. Coming around a corner from the deeper end of the alley Delilah stood in; two hooded figures appeared.

Automatically, Scott thought the worst.

The Volturi had found her.

He was just about to rush forward when a feminine voice spoke. He knew that voice. He had heard it before.

Jane.

"Delilah," she sounded sarcastic, Delilah noticed. Why was she here? Where was Alec? "My brother sends his regards. He's unavailable at this moment in time."

Jane removed her hood from her head, and the figure behind her did the same thing. The scent lingering with Jane's was all off; but Scott knew it. As did Delilah.

It wasn't until his hood was fully down and they could see the piercing black eyes and copper colored hair that they realized who it was.

It was a Cullen.

"A Cullen?" Delilah frowned, voicing Scott's inner thoughts.

"Let me introduce Edward, Renesmee's father." So this was her father? In the Volturi's castle, Scott hadn't been able to get a good look at her parents. The crowds had been too large to see over; but he did know his name. It had been announced on their entrance. "He's here to ensure you're not lying to us. We're fearful you might not be telling the truth with the information you're giving us."

What information was she giving them?! This was the freaking enemy, for Christ sake! They were keeping what belonged to Lilianna away from her! They were the ones that stood in the way of them having the happy family they craved. With them gone, they could finally move on and all this would be over! Why the hell wasn't she killing them!

Edward frowned, and looked up. Scott quickly hid himself further into the shadows.

"I heard something." Edward commented. Jane's eyes looked to him, and then snapped back to Delilah.

"You brought someone?" She sneered. Delilah in that moment let out a ear piercing scream.

That scream alone caused Scott to speed forward; and go straight for Jane.

He was knocked back, however; by a rough and savage shove to the chest. He collapsed to the floor beside a spasming Delilah. His arms automatically wrapped themselves around her in a protective manner.

"S-s-scott.." Delilah stuttered out. "You... You're not supposed... To be here."

Scott never once stopped glaring at Jane, Edward and a new face. The one that had shoved him.

Jane was no longer paying attention to them, however. She was glaring at the one who shoved him.

"I thought I asked you to stay with Felix, Demetri?"

"Forgive me. I didn't feel comfortable leaving you in the company of a mere mind-reader." Was his answer.

Jane smiled. Though it was sinister and dark. "I'll deal with you later."

"As you wish." Demetri nodded his head, accepting his obvious soon-to-be-punishment with open arms.

Their attention turned back towards the two on the floor. Scott's arms pulled Delilah tighter to him.

"So she is double crossing us." Jane commented with a sigh. "And here I thought my brother might've made a valuable asset."

"Asset to what?" Scott frowned.

"Scott, shh!" Delilah protested.

"No! What the hell is going on here?!" He shook his head violently. "Why the hell are you meeting with them?!"

"Wait..." Jane pursed her lips."He doesn't know?"

"I don't know what?"

She turned her head to Edward; who took a moment to reply. After that moment, he shook his head gently. "He doesn't know a thing."

The sinister smile returned to her angel like face as her eyes returned back to Scott.

"Well, well, well..." She commented. "This is going to be interesting. Delilah, would you like to explain to your coven mate now, or shall I?"

This wasn't the way Delilah wanted him to find out. She wanted to sit them all down, talk to them all as a family - excluding Lilianna - and talked them into this. Working with the 'enemy' for it would save their lives. If they were to all turn against Lilianna, then it would come as a shock to her.

But now... Now that wasn't going to happen.

The way Scott was looking at her was full of betrayal. He was loyal to Lilianna. Not as loyal as Mary, though Delilah was sure none of them would ever be as loyal as she was, but he saw the good in her. He understood what it was like to love someone and not being able to be with them. Lilianna was just doing what he wanted to do. He wanted to be with Mary, more than anything, just as much as Lilianna wanted to be with Alec.

The only real difference was that Mary wanted to be with Scott too; where as Alec didn't share the feelings Lilianna had for him. Scott didn't know that, although it was obvious.

If it were him here, and not Jane, Scott would be able to see that. He would be able to hear first hand from the boy Lilianna was trying to steal that this was just a game to her. That she was playing with peoples lives, ruining their lives, in some selfish act to get a boy who couldn't care any less for her than he already did.

"What is she talking about, Delia?" Scott demanded.

"I-I.." No matter how hard she tried, the words didn't seem to come.

"God damn it, Delilah; answer me!"

"I'm doing this for you!" She quickly spat out; managing to push herself out from his arms and cowering with her back pressed up against the wall. "I'm... I'm doing this for all of us. If I don't... We're all dead."

Scott blinked in disbelief. "What?"

"Lilianna doesn't care for your lives, Scott." Edward said. Scott didn't so much as look at him. His eyes never once left Delilah; but he was listening. "You may think she does; but its a lie. What Delilah has done is the right thing to do."

"Because it means you'll live," Scott spat back in a venom coated tone.

"She didn't do it for us." Demetri was the one to speak up this time. "Her conditions in helping us were specific. For her cooperation, we had to promise no harm would come to you, nor your other four coven mates. I forget their names..."

"Damien, Ryan, Shay, yourself... Mary."

They knew about Mary? Scott turned his eyes to Edward, the one who had said her name, wide eyed and unsure on wither to believe this or not. How could he trust them? He had been brought up - basically - to believe that they were the enemy, not the other way around. Although he had a feeling what they were doing wasn't right, never once had Scott actually believed that this was the case. It was all for love, and when was that ever wrong?

Lilianna loved Alec... She had always loved Alec. He was hers.

"That might be the case, but those feelings aren't both sided." Edward said again, answering Scott's thoughts. Jane was looking rather impassive, though he could feel the smugness coming off her. So it was true then? Alec didn't love Lilianna after all...

He loved Renesmee.

"He does," Edward nodded. "He always has."

Didn't that bother him? Alec, being in love with his daughter? When he was the cause of all this trouble? Things would be a lot simpler if he were to just come with Lilianna. There would be none of this...

"Even if he didn't love her, Scott. He would still not come with you. His place has always been with the Volturi. With his sister."

Scott's eyes automatically shifted to Jane, who's lips were now in a thin, harsh line.

"All this is because of Lilianna wanting to start a war?" Scott asked. All three of them nodded their heads. Scott looked back to Delilah. She was holding her knees to her chest, her eyes hidden from him.

"And you're betraying her for us?"

Delilah didn't respond, though he could see her little nod.

Although it was a lot to take in, Scott didn't see how else he could go about this. If Lilianna were to find out, she would kill Delilah. She would make her a example to them all if anyone had any thoughts on betraying her again. She was putting all of that on the line... Just for them. There once had been a time where Scott had believed Delilah felt nothing towards their coven. That she only stuck around because she had nothing better to do, and not because she cared for them. How wrong had he been there. It was evident to him now that they were all Delilah cared about, so much that she was willing to risk her life.

There was no guarantee that she could have made this deal with them and lived, there was no guarantee that they wouldn't turn on her if she were to do something wrong. Either way, with the Volturi or with Lilianna, her life was at risk; all because she wanted them to be the family Lilianna had once promised.

The family that they all were still trying to be.

With no other thoughts, and his mind made up, Scott shuffled himself forward and scooped Delilah into his arms again.

"I'm with you," he whispered. "Until the end. We all are."

—xXx—

My work was being cut out for me. I had decided, despite viewing Finn's true reasons for advancing after Renesmee, I couldn't tell her. At this point, if she was willing to disregard my warning and continue on with him; there was no evidence that she would believe me anyhow.

What she was doing was evidently clear to me. She was trying to ruse a reaction out of me; and I knew full well I was giving it to her. But it wasn't on the terms she probably believed it was for. Yes, I was jealous. I'll admit that - not to her, of course. That would give her false hope, and I refused to do that - but it was more so to the point I would never allow a boy like Finn to lay his hands on her. He, clearly, was only after one thing. Although he was probably one of the perfect matches for her; that one flaw had deemed him unworthy of Renesmee's time, attention and affection.

A boy that could not commit to one woman alone, was exactly that. A mere boy.

Thus, I'd just found another reason as to why I couldn't be the one for her either. Although I would commit, heart, body and soul - if I still had one of those - to her; I could not be around as much as I probably should. My loyalties lied with the Volturi, and they always would. There was no telling on when, or how long it would be that I would next see her. The last time; I hadn't seen her in two years. The next time could be longer, and those two years near enough drove me insane as it was.

Renesmee didn't deserve that. She deserved better.

Finn wouldn't give up, evidently. He was walking a lot closer to her than I was comfortable with. They would laugh, and joke, and he'd sling his arm around her shoulder. Truthfully, he was acting as though I wasn't even there. If I was honest myself, I probably would have preferred not to be either. Each time he laid his hands on her, I would feel a uncontrollable urge to rip his throat out.

Though, that could be my hunger talking.

Renesmee had come up with some strange idea that I should come with them to this tree and truly get to know the people there. Lana - whomever that was - would 'love' to meet me, being one of her main reasons. She brought up Charlie again, who it did take me a moment to remember who that girl was, but that didn't last long after she failed in receiving a reaction out of me.

I personally believed she'd only brought up the green eyed girl to see if I held any interest in her. When she saw I didn't, she let it drop.

The only interest I would ever have in her, a mere human, wouldn't bee in her specifically. It would be to the liquid running through her veins, and the feeling of it running down my throat and soothing the burning. I could see Renesmee knew that also. Perhaps that was another reason as to why she dropped it? The dark violet eyes gave away I was practically ready to pounce; when it was nothing but a mild burn.

I could last three weeks, if I needed to.

Not that I could. The sooner I fed, the better. I had to keep my strength up.

But there I was; sitting under this god damn tree; surrounding by blood bags; with Renesmee at my side. If I wanted this friendship thing to work, I had to endure this, I realized. If I were to storm off - which I really, really wanted too - she would just bring it up as me failing in trying. I didn't want to fail her yet again, not after last night.

I wanted to at least do something right. If I wasn't going to give her what she wanted - and what I wanted also - I'd have to compromise to keep her happy; and if friendship was what it took, then so be it.

Besides, what's another human friend to me anyway? It wasn't as if we were going to trade cell phone numbers and sit up all night talking. If anything, the only human's I'd consider speaking to for longer than necessary; it would be the human's back in Forks. Although irritating at the beginning, each of them grew on you. Especially that little loud mouth Ivy. She had influenced Renesmee a lot, I could notice.

She wasn't as shy as she used to be. She was confident, and cocky... And by god, she had gotten more stubborn than when I had last seen her.

Currently, she was talking to Gary. What she was talking to him about, I had no god damn idea. It wasn't them I was paying attention too.

It was the black haired boy sitting directly opposite me; giving death glares. I played oblivious, but each second that ticked by only made me all the more aware of it. Was it bothering him that she was sitting next to me? Was it bothering him that she spoke to me more than what she did him? Was it bothering him that she and I shared a past, and despite it ending; we were still somewhat close? God, I hoped so.

He should take that as a warning. I would always be a part of her life, be I there or not.

Just as she would with me.

"... Family just got back from skiing, something they do every year. I couldn't go, but I wish I could have." Someone way saying to Renesmee. From the tone of the voice, it was Lana. When she had arrived, I didn't know. Nor did I really care, if I was honest.

"Tell me about it!" Renesmee chirped. Her body jolted a little, causing her arm to brush against mine; which then forced a spark to run though my body. "There was this one time where I went skiing with my friends. back in Seattle. That had been the best time of my life. It wasn't even the skiing that hyped it. It was the little meetings. Sitting around the fire, talking... Cuddling up to people."

There was a lot more than cuddling going on there, I thought idly; though I wasn't entirely sure how I had managed it. I was far to lost in my state of awe. That had been the best time of her life? Something that I had been involved with? I held my tongue, despite wanting to say something. Question her on it. It didn't stop me from looking at her, though.

She caught the look, blushed and looked down. "Though the skiing was pretty amazing too."

I nudged her shoulder, and gave a gentle smile.

"I agree." I said, uncaring that her friends were now looking at us curiously. "It was a great trip."

She returned the smile and looked away again.

Charlie cleared her throat, and brushed her red hair behind her ear.

"So I think Alec should come to Finn's party on Thursday." She declared. "I'd like to learn more about you both. I mean, how you're able to stay friends with one of your ex's is beyond me. I couldn't... Especially if I loved them."

It's not easy, Charlie. It's really, really not easy.

"That'd be great," Gary agreed. "If you decide to attend here after all, you'll have us to stick with."

"I'm not too sure about that," I answered idly. "I'm not one to... Party."

"Oh, come on!"

"Say you'll come."

I looked to my left, letting my eyes graze over Renesmee. She was keeping silent, but she was looking at me. I sent her a look which basically pleaded for her to help with an excuse as to why I couldn't attend, which took her a few seconds to reply too. I truthfully didn't really wish to attend it. It was a vampire's worst nightmare. A house full of drinking, hyperactive teenagers? It was a cause for disaster. Her lips curved again, and she nodded gently. "I'd like it if you came."

Although it wasn't what I had set out for to begin with, I'd received an answer none the less. Slowly, I nodded my head. "I suppose I could attend for a little while..."

If she wanted me there, I would go. My head was screaming at me to take that back. To refuse, for it wasn't right. I was putting myself in a situation where I would be closer to Renesmee than what was needed, but I couldn't help it. I had never been good at saying no to her... Especially when she asked me of something I could easily do. This girl truly was going to be the death of me.

A/N:

Well, now Scott knows and Alec's been dragged into a party. How do we think that's going to go?

Leave your thoughts in a review and make my day?

I'll see you tomorrow for the next update.

Take it easy, I love you all.

-C.H