Joshua Black Pov
*12 Hours Later*
It was 11o'clock in the morning and I felt like I'd been hit by a bus.
I was so tired even though I got much rest, I couldn't help but watch the door. Wondering and waiting if the red eyed pale browned haired vamp was going to return.
Physically I was strong enough to defend myself, but mentally I am not prepared.
Shifting hasn't been a normalcy trend of mine. I felt pain in places I shouldn't.
Something was off.
When I first shifted when I was a pre-teen, I didn't want it to affect my schooling so I never tried to make it a habit. I wasn't just afraid of what could happen, but what I would be forced to do tradition-wise. I didn't want to join Sam's pack or patrol around after dark. I just wanted to be normal.
I'm forever on guard now. Last night was the second time in my life that I shifted, yet against my will, It was like the pain the vamp was inflecting was taunting the beast, that was just itching to get out.
I hate it. It's in my genes to be what I am, but I'd rather be a regular guy like my best friend Shane.
Unlike Daniel, when he first phased he loved it. It wasn't out of anger or panic it was out of joy, which is really weird for anyone around here. Yet, he had an issue shifting back and It got so bad he developed a fear of shifting overtime.
Here in the hospital, I feel like a sitting duck.
I can't be here. I can't stay here.
When I was in Port Angeles all I wanted was to come home to my family, not come home to a war with vampires. I have to go somewhere where I won't be forced to fight or go to school.
When I was younger I used to wish to go to school and be around others my own age. I'm feeling the opposite right now.
I got up off the bed, and made my way towards the closet where I knew my clothes were.
Maybe I can go to Canada. It's not too far from here and I can easily come back just in case I'm needed.
Grabbing new clothes that Caleb brought to me two hours ago, I quickly put them on before a nurse walked in, or one of my parents.
I assumed that Sarah awoke as neither of them was in here with me at the moment.
When I was drifting in and out of consciousness, I overheard my dad tell my grandpa Billy that Sarah shifted last night. I certainly would rather not stick around for that drama show of teaching my kid sister the way of the wild.
"Hey?" I heard someone say and I jumped startled, hitting my arm against the closet door.
It didn't hurt but I was sure I made a dent. I looked towards the door and to my surprise Hazel was there.
"Don't tell me you're sneaking out." She said coming into the room.
I sighed, reaching down to put on my sneakers. "Actually, that's exactly what I'm doing."
"Why?" She asked.
"Shouldn't you be in school?" I said fast.
"I should, but I'm grounded. I had to beg my dad to bring me to see Sarah. I definitely have to make sure she's alright." She says.
"What happened last night anyway? When she was attacked?"
"Just like you, super strange. One second she was sitting down, then the next thing I knew... Embry was there and everything went crazy. It all happened so fast. I didn't even see the vampire who wanted to attack her. All we wanted to do was have fun, she even cut her hair. We wanted to relax a bit and not worry about boy troubles." Hazel said, completely filled with guilt.
"She cut her hair? Wait. Did you say boy troubles? Something's up with you and Danny?" I asked curious. "Thought you guys we're alright."
"We are, I think. Anyway… Why do you want to sneak out?" She asked.
"I can't be here." I stated.
"Where will you go?" She asked moving closer towards me. "Your timing sucks."
"I know, and I'm not sure yet. I just...want to find myself you know. I love music and I love working on cars. I'm just not sure what I should do with the rest of my life. I just rather not stay here and be killed by some vampire." I answered honestly.
"Josh, I've known you my whole life and you go after anything and everything you set your mind on. Don't worry too much about the future stuff, dude focus on all you want right now and what makes you happy. Trust me, no one wants to stay here and fear the cold ones for eternity."
I smiled rolling my eyes. "Yeah, you're right about that." I am completely shocked at how mature she sounded.
"Seriously, don't stress. It'll all work out. Don't run away too far either. When we all miss you as much as we do, we worry." She said, wrapping her arms around my waist and I hugged her, placing my arms around her back.
She was warm.
It's been awhile since someone hugged me like this.
Let alone a girl who I wasn't really related to.
Just to think, when I was a kid I used to have a huge crush on her mother.
"Wow…" She exclaimed.
"What?" I asked curious.
"You are hot." She laughed, backing away from me. "Nearly burnt my skin off."
I snorted. "Sorry."
She turned around to look towards the door and I followed her gaze.
To our surprise Daniel was standing stone as a rock in the doorway.
"Danny, finally! I've been looking for you everywhere. Where is your phone? Why didn't you tell me you were coming home?" Hazel turned from me to move in his direction.
"I was with my mother. My phone battery died after we arrived here. What are you doing?" He said to her, not taking his eyes off of me.
"It's not what you think." I said fast.
"Oh really." He said as dry as possible.
"Danny, he's right. I was just-"
"Embracing him like he was your boyfriend? Yeah I've noticed." Daniel said, walking into the room.
"No need to get jealous, she was only saying goodbye." I said defending her.
"So like you to be jealous of what I have." He spat. "What's wrong, medical school was too bland for you? You had to come home and have a little fun?"
"How do you even know about that?" I was shocked.
"Caleb told me, or did you think he'll keep that a secret like you wanting to create a rock band as if you're fifteen years old?"
"Daniel, stop it." Hazel said lightly pushing him away from me.
I glared at him amused. "Dude listen to yourself. It's nothing like that."
"No? Tell me then. How bad is it for my girlfriend, my imprint to feel that she has to comfort poor college dropout Joshua?"
"Daniel, you're overreacting?" Hazel snapped.
"Oh I'm overreacting? How should I react? Should I sit in pity on how foolish it is to hear that you took my sister to a nightclub when you both should've been in bed? Note, one lesson of going out, never go without your boyfriend. Why is it that you were alone anyway? Shopping for a new boytoy? Oh wait, here's Josh, in the flesh." Daniel said and Hazel's mouth dropped in shock.
"He almost died." Hazel stated.
"Wow, and here you are getting one last feel of what you never had." He said to her.
"You are out of line, and it's not cool, dude." I wanted to snapped.
"Hazel?" We all heard from the door. Her father Noah, stood there. With brown wavy hair, he stepped halfway in the room. "Time to go."
"One sec, Dad." She said and I almost forgot he was a hybrid. Half-human, half-vampire.
"No, now. Go greet Sarah then come. Your mother is waiting at the cafe, say goodbye now." He said to her, Hazel sighed then walked around Daniel to leave.
"We'll talk later." She says to Daniel. "Jee, Danny get a grip by then please." She begged.
After they left Daniel stood there staring at me in silence. "Danny, I promise you it was nothing. I wouldn't do anything to come between you and Hazel. She's yours." I said honestly. She wasn't even cute to me, just very nice. "She's like my sister, you know that."
Daniel didn't say a word as he backed out of the hospital room.
I exhaled, sitting on the edge of the bed, wondering if I should go or wait until I patch things up with him first.
I would hate to leave on a bad note with anyone, let alone my brother. No matter how annoying he is at times.
Leah Clearwater Pov
*Flashback*
It was the day of my wedding, and I felt like I could use a glass of wine.
"Yes, we have only three bridesmaids." Haylie said standing by the bedroom door, speaking on the phone to one of the Chapel owners.
I sat in front of the huge mirror in the guest room, while Billy was down the hall getting the kids dressed. He was also looking after Sarah until Elena got here with her outfit. Elena has great taste in baby-clothing, so I knew she would pick out something amazing.
I reached over to the dresser to grab my old silver twist necklace that Jacob brought me ten years ago. I got it cleaned a couple months ago, making the tiny diamonds inside look more shiny.
Putting it around my neck, my body in the reflection suddenly started to blur and I felt a little lightheaded.
Perhaps from standing and rushing around all day without eating or drinking much.
Feeling like I couldn't breathe in my cream Versace strapless gown, with stones all over the top half. I definitely needed some wine with a sandwich. Instead, I reached over to grab my half empty bottle of water from the nightstand.
"Wow, you look gorgeous." Elena walked into the room and I looked over. "How are you doing?"
"Thanks. I feel mighty hot in this dress." I complained.
"Hot as in sexy?, or hot as in... I need to sit down?" She asked.
"Hot as in... I'm about to pass-out." I started moving towards the bed to have a seat.
"Don't worry, it's the nerves. It'll pass once you get down the aisle. I love your hair by the way." She commented and I touched my messy ponytail.
"Thanks but Rebecca hasn't done it yet."
"Really? Well if you add your veil it'll be perfect." Elena suggested.
"That's if I was going to put one on." I say back.
"You don't have a veil?" She said appalled. Elena's been married to Mason Glaser since they were in high school. Mason always knew he would be a cop and wanted Elena to move here to the Reservation to start a family before she started medical school.
Once Elena had their son Shane, they stayed in Port Angeles with her family until Mason graduated from the police academy.
Mason was once Embry's partner, but that barely lasted.
"I barely got this dress. Me and Haylie ran to at least a dozen stores in just two hours." I pointed out.
"Oh, well I bought this cute Bonnie Jean Baby dress for Sarah. Hope you like it." She said, pulling the dress out of her bag. "They even had baby shoes to match."
It was a purple and cream striped dress. Looking at the adorable modern dress I smirked at how cute it was. "Aw thank you. The boys are wearing light gray suits and cream button down shirts, so this is perfect." I noted.
"Would you like me to go and dress her for you, Madame?" Elena jokes.
I laughed. "Thank you, yes I would appreciate that and thanks again for buying the outfit. I'll pay you back soon."
"No, don't worry about paying me back, it's fine. I'm the godmother, ain't I?" She says happily.
"Yes, I believe you've won that title." I said back.
"Hey! I'm still on the phone with the Chapel. This race ain't over yet." Haylie said, glaring over at us raising her eyebrows.
I shook my head. "You both can be the godmother."
"Fine, though I'm number one." Elena said, taking the pretty dress out of my hand and moving towards the hallway.
"Sure sure." Haylie said after Elena passes her.
I hadn't noticed at the hospital, but Haylie seems to have gained a bit of weight. "Leah? How many others will it be again?" Haylie asked.
"Let me see... Billy, Sue, Jeremiah, Embry, Seth, Rachel, Rebecca, Quil, Elena, Shane, Mason... who else...ahh..." I thought.
"Jared and Paul are coming right?" She asked.
"Yes, Jared and Paul..., Fourteen guests all together not including Daniel, Josh, Caleb and Sarah." I stated.
"Okay." She said turning to talk back into the phone. "Other than the bride and groom, Four children and fourteen guests." Haylie was doing a great job.
"Hey, kiddo, how's everything going?" Billy asked, walking into the room with his striped purple tie nicely pinned on his gray tux.
"Everything is going good so far." I answered him as he came to sit beside me on the bed.
"How are you feeling?"
"I'm doing good." I smiled.
"Are you sure? Elena said you're feeling nervous."
I rolled my eyes. "Don't worry old-man. I'm not getting cold feet, I'm just hot-flashing from being pregnant for months, then getting stabbed and taken against my will. Did I mention getting pinched with a needle in my neck and later proposed too on the beach?" I mocked grinning. "Ugh, the last 72 hours have been ridiculous."
Billy sighed. "I know, it has been a lot. I'm so sorry about the kidnapping and attack part, you didn't deserve that. I could go after those monsters myself for hurting you."
"Don't worry," I said, nudging my arm to him. "I'm fine, I'm just being dramatic. Your son has rubbed off on me quite a bit."
"Yeah, you two sure do complete one and other." Billy shrugged.
"Is that another way of saying we are two peas in a pod?" I smiled nod.
"Excuse me.. Leah, you wanted a white lily bridal bouquet, right?" Haylie asked from across the room.
"Ah no, Japhet orchids and purple lilies." I corrected it.
"Oh, that's right." She said obviously forgetting what I told her earlier in the car.
Looking back at Billy who was cheesing mighty hard, it made me laugh.
"What? Do I have something on my face?" I asked him.
"No." He grinned.
"Well- I know my hair looks a mess, I don't even care because Rebecca probably won't have time to do it. The fact that Haylie's still on the phone with the chapel, means they may not be ready for us and Rebecca had to run and buy a dress of her own after Caleb accidentally tore it this morning running around." I said scratching my hair. "I should have washed my hair last night, but I forgot and today I was rushing to go get the dress. The day has been bananas."
"Life is all about how we manage, and you're managing these days very gracefully. Wolverine you are, kiddo." He smiled."When Sarah and I married, we didn't have too many pennies to rub together. Sarah was trying to sell her paintings, and I did a few old jobs, mailing catching fish for fishermen who were ill or injured. It was tough for a while but we made a way." He says, I sometimes wonder how things would be if Sarah was alive.
One day I want to write a fiction novel of how things would be if Jacob's mother Sarah and my father Harry were alive. Just picturing how this life can be without our parents death or vampirism existing.
"Sue has something old for you, so I brought my great grandmother's diamond studs for you to borrow." Billy said, pulling out a small antique wooden box from his pocket. "I kept them knowing this day would come eventually.
I smirked, flattered that it was the first time I ever heard him speak of having anything of his great grandmothers. "She allowed Sarah to borrow her pearl necklace from England, but I wasn't sure if there was a rule about giving someone a borrowed gift or not. I decided this was a better fit for you." He said and I rethought about my dream I had of his deceased wife Sarah last night.
"Wow, thank you, Billy. I appreciate this." I said taking the studs from his fingers and placing them into my ear. "They're perfect."
"I have another gift for you at the house. A gift you can keep. Everyone knows Sarah was known for being a full time mother and part time artist. She loved her watercolors. So there's a painting of hers underneath my old mattress, delicately wrapped and I think it's finally time for me to let it go. You can even put it in the baby's room if you want." He smiled.
"Thanks, I will. Right after the wedding I'll come over and get it. I wish she could be here for Jacob… and you. Sarah was always so kind to me, and everyone. That's definitely something I'll never forget." I stated.
He nodded, smiling. Holding back tears. "I want you to know, I see a lot of Sarah in you, Leah. I'm so happy to call you my daughter." He said and I instantly felt a tear fall down my face.
In all shock that he would say such a thing at this moment made my heart drop in the most loving, most horrible way possible. Too afraid of wiping my tears away feeling only more would come spilling out, I nodded trying to smile.
"I'm happy to be your daughter too." I said as he wrapped his arms around my body tightly, and I felt the pressure of suffocation fast. "I'm sure Sarah and Harry are in paradise keeping each other company."
Jacob's mother Sarah and my father Harry, both died too soon. Jacob and I barely recovered after their deaths.
"Indeed, they are kiddo." Billy agreed.
"Okay, let me get up before I start ripping this dress off." I said clearing my throat and Billy unwrapped his arms from me, then stood to his feet.
I did the same. "I thank the Most High for flat shoes, or someone would probably be carrying me there and back."
"Yes, the Creator is one of many wonders." Billy agreed.
"I agree, he's never too late or too early, because everything is now ready." Haylie said, finally hanging up the phone.
"He has always been and always will be right on time." Rebecca added happily moving into the room. "Though if you ask me this wedding is overdue."
Surprise, looking over at her light purple cocktail dress similar to Haylie's and Elena's I shook my head.
I told them they didn't have to match, but they were beyond beautiful. "The three of you look gorgeous." I smiled.
"Not as gorgeous as you. I've got something old that Sue told me to pass off and something new from me." Rebecca said, carrying one small plastic bag. "It's a beautiful happy day isn't it?" She smiled.
"I believe so." I nodded.
"Okay, here's the old thing Sue has given you." She said reaching in her bag and pulling out a multi‑color bracelet with different types of small charms on it. It was very pretty.
"Wow, that's cute." I admitted.
"I know, beautiful... and here's something new from me and Rachel who's down stairs with Paul." She said, handing me a black sparkly belt with diamonds all around it. "It's pretty isn't it, we got it custom-made just for you." She said take it out of my hand fast. "Look, we even got you and Jacob's initials."
"Oh, wow that's cool. How much did all of this cost? Is this real diamond?" I ask.
"Of course it's real, we can't have the studs falling out. Come on, try it on." She said, wrapping the belt around my waist and I turned to look in the mirror.
"Let me get a good look at you." She said lightly pushing me towards the mirror even more.
Rebecca and Rachel have always been older than me, then once I moved back to La Push eleven years ago, Rebecca and I grew closer. She definitely has become one of my best friends.
"Oh wow, I look like one of those Disney characters." I laughed. Even with my hair out of place, it felt amazing enough to get married.
"They are called Disney Princesses." Haylie corrected.
"Which-ever." I muttered. Turning to see how my butt looked in the mirror. "At least my butt doesn't look flat. This not so heavy dress falls into place with a swish." I said then looked at Billy who rolled his eyes in such a guy way. I laughed.
"It feels great having you all here, helping me. It reminds me of my first baby shower, when I was pregnant with Josh, it wasn't easy at the beginning. I felt everything was happening too fast. It wasn't until I was five months along that I returned to feeling normal and not getting sick at the sight of everything. Jacob was so excited he told you Rebecca and Billy the same night we found out. I was annoyed at first, worrying it was too soon to be telling folks but your family has always been the-right-kind-of-too-much. The Black-family's energy is the type I'll never want to miss, no matter what mood I'm in- you guys make everything better. Thank you, for that. You have no idea how much I love you guys." I gratefully wrapped my arms around Billy and Rebecca.
"We love you too, kiddo." Billy smiled.
Rebecca sniffled with tears in her eyes. "Damn you, Leah. I didn't want to cry." She wiped her face quickly squeezing me tight.
I laughed. "Aw, sorry, but thank you for always being around." I said to her.
"You have no idea how happy you make my little brother, I never in a million years would have hoped for another to take him away and make him forget about family dinners- until you moved back and I knew you were the one for him." She loosened her hold and we all took a step back.
"You look amazingly fabulous. If I didn't love this so much, I would be jealous." Rebecca said, smiling, turning me to look in the mirror.
"Alright everyone is here! Time to go!" Rachel, Rebecca's twin, yelled up the steps.
"Well let's get this party started." Rebecca said, clapping her hands, racing out of the bedroom.
"Yes, it's almost showtime. Let's get to the chapel." Haylie said happily moving out into the hallway.
"Good, because I'm all ready to drink some wine and eat a hoagie or something." I said then looked at Billy.
"I'm ready, kiddo." He said holding out his elbow and I wrapped mine under his.
Even though Billy's the perfect man and father to have at my side, I wish Harry was here also. I miss him terribly.
*End Of Flashback*
"Mom, are you okay?" Caleb asked. I glanced around the room. The cafe was a bit crowded but quiet.
"Yes, beyond tired. It was a long flight and even longer of a night." I admit.
"Here, double shot espresso should wake you." Haylie said sliding a little cup my way. "Plus a splash of whiskey added." She said with an eye wink.
"Thanks but I'm cutting my caffeine intake." I said to her, not to mention a splash of anything strong isn't good for the baby.
"I'll take that." Hazel said, walking to stand beside her mother. She almost drank it but Haylie took the glass so fast from her.
"No drinking on the job. Get back to work." Haylie stated seriously.
"But mom-"
"Hazel, go now before I ground you for two more months." Haylie said and I wonder if Jacob and I will even consider punishing Sarah. Knowing her, she already learned her lesson, but the fact that she cut all of her hair -I was more sad about than angry.
Jacob said this morning that instead of Hazel only working weekends she'll be working Tuesday through Saturday to coincide with Haylie's punishment.
"How are you feeling about everything?" I asked as Caleb turned to face me.
"I'm so happy at your home." He hugged me. "We all are, especially Dad. Josh and Sarah will be fine, Dad has been trying very hard without you." He smiled glancing over at Jacob who was wearing a smirk on his face speaking to Billy on the other side of the cafe. He must be making fun of something that everyone else probably finds offensive, it'll only be the reason for his amusement.
"So, I kept the secret for a couple of hours. I'm glad I didn't have to disappoint you, I was so excited." Caleb said and I nodded. He was the only one I told I was on the plane back home.
I wish I could share his enthusiasm, however the fact that I'm pregnant and not sure how to tell Jacob is the only reason why I'm home right now.
Everyone would probably be more disappointed that the real reason why Daniel and I are home is not at all because we missed them.
"Maybe we should get home so you can rest." Caleb suggested.
"Great idea, I'm so ready for the couch and cheese puff." Sarah said sitting on the other side of me.
"How are you feeling?" I asked her.
"Better than you look." She stated.
"Jee, thanks."
She laughed. "Seriously mom, you look burnt out. Are you okay?"
"I'm fine. When Jacob is finished talking, go tell him we should close up early." I said to her then turned to Caleb. "I can use some alone time with all of you."
"This should be fun." Sarah mumbled.
I turned back to her, her haircut was heartbreaking. "You and I will talk about this new hairdo later."
She rolled her eyes. "Mom, it's my hair. I needed to do this, okay?" She said and I hated that she not only cut her hair but shifted, one which wasn't in her control.
"No, I told you out of all the things you can do, cutting your hair was not one." I stated. Sarah sighed. "You could have dyed it, or ran out and got a nose piercing if you wanted to do something different, but cutting your hair is like... cutting your spirit strength."
"Mom, maybe my spirit strength is broken at the moment. I need to find something happy."
"Sarah, What do you mean something happy? You have your health, your family, softball, and college in two years." I said touching her hair hopeful.
"Mom, no." She said lightly pushing my hand away, obviously irritable. "I quit softball, school sucks and no one is ever around." She says, fixing her hair.
"You should tell her about Embry moving?" Caleb says to Sarah.
"What?" I am confused looking between them.
"Caleb, shut up." Sarah practically yelled.
"Why are you angry at me? That's the reason you cut her." Caleb stated.
"You have no idea what you're talking about." Sarah said angry and I could tell the few customers that were here were staring.
"Alright, alright. relax." I said defusing the hostility. "The last thing I need is you phasing in here in front of customers." I say fast.
"Sorry. I should have stopped her." Caleb says, referring to Sarah cutting her hair.
"I make my own decisions, Caleb. You can't make me do anything." Sarah snapped. She was becoming too heated.
"Alright, Jeez. Don't bite my head off." Caleb says.
"Sarah. Relax, finish drinking your dragon tea, we'll talk later." I say to her fast. "Caleb, you can't just blurt things out like that, true or not. You have to be more considerate of other people's feelings, especially right now." I say low. Warning him.
Caleb nodded. "I'm sorry, mom. Sorry, Sarah."
"Fine, whatever." Sarah mumbled, and it was clear that there was truth to Caleb's words about her hair. Meaning I have to talk to both Jacob and Embry on what the hell's been happening around here.
"So what are we watching when we get home?" Caleb asked me. "Wait until you see my movie collection. I updated it while you and Danny were gone." He smiled.
"Can't wait, we should also order takeout as soon as we get home, no cooking from either you or I." I stated.
He laughed. "Deal, but tomorrow. I'm making one of your new favorites."
"And what's that?" I asked.
"Sushi, real Japanese sushi and not American sushi." He said and I frowned in horror.
"Ew, no seafood. Let's go with Italian."
"Okay, then seafood next week." He said and we heard the bell on top of the entrance door ring as someone came in.
Instantly, Caleb's face froze with his mouth opened. I turned to look at the door.
"I recognize her." Caleb said as I glared at the paleface brown haired familiar bloodsucker. "Charlie has pictures all around his house."
"It's his daughter." I started standing up to my feet.
"Excuse me? Hey, Didn't you read the sign. No vampires." Daniel said too loudly, and some customers turned to look. Must be something in the water because even Daniel seems to be overly upset.
"Eh, kiddo, it's alright." Charlie said embarrassingly, glancing around. "This is my daughter. Isabella." He said then looked to Jacob. "We all should talk."
If she's here that means she has news about The Volturi's remaining two, Jane and Alec.
"It's as if they all smell the same. I can see her crimson eyes are black just like Alec." Sarah muttered. "I thought they all had red eyes."
"Only when they haven't fed." I say fast.
"Sorry, Charlie. Daniel's right, my parents rules are rules of the cafe." Joshua said, looking at him then back to Bella. "My sister was attacked, she's a new wolf. You should not be here. Besides, vampires aren't welcomed inside. Especially ones who aren't alleys to my parents."
"Jacob?" Charlie says in a begging tone.
"Dad. It's alright. I understand, we should go." Bella said to Charlie.
No one took their eyes off of her.
"Sarah, are you okay?" Caleb asked and I looked down.
Sarah's head was bowed down and her chest was rising heavily.
"Oh no, Sarah." I said low lifting my hand but careful not to touch her.
"No, mom. Step back." Daniel said fast and in that second was right in front of me.
"I'm fine." Sarah breathed. "It's like my claws are itching to come out when they are around." I knew all too well what she meant. "The cold ones… they have nice skin, but then again they're dead... so it's dead-pretty-skin and they smell weird like mint and rusted metallic. No one explained how hard this would be." She lightly laughed to herself. It was clear she was talking to only calm herself.
"Sarah. Hey, this is good. You're controlling it." Embry said instantly in front of her with his hands holding hers tightly.
Where the hell did he come from?
Jacob moved a couple feet behind Embry.
"Think it's time to shut things down early." Jacob stated and I nodded.
"It's so weird that I feel like I'm pmsing. I want to punch something, and eat at the same time." Sarah says.
I laughed as Embry did. "Let's go for a walk." He whispered to her.
"No, if I move I'll-"
"Alright, no problem. We'll stay here." Embry said fast, cutting her off.
I can't believe this is happening. Sarah's about to shift for the second time.
"Jacob," I said motioning for him to get everyone out of the cafe.
When I moved my arm to look around, I hadn't noticed Daniel standing between Sarah and I. Extremely too close.
"Danny?"
"Mom, you should go home." He pleaded fast. "It's safer there."
He must be worried about the baby. With me standing so close to Sarah I almost forgot that she could hurt me if she was too phased.
Though right now I don't care much about my safety. "Not yet, Sarah and Josh-
"Are fine. Please go home with Caleb." Daniel begged.
I do not want to leave Sarah and Joshua here alone, but then again they have all the support they need.
"Caleb, you and mom go home. Order some dinner, alright?" Daniel said and Caleb didn't argue.
As I moved towards the door with Caleb right behind me, I didn't realize that both Charlie and Bella weren't anywhere in sight.
"I'm going to find out what it is that they want." Jacob said, moving towards me. "Sarah will probably stay with Embry tonight, go home. Get some rest, try not to worry."
"What about Josh?" I said to him.
"I'll be with Dad, don't worry mom. We'll be home soon." Joshua said quickly, giving me a kiss and hug. "Just go rest." He said and I wondered if he could sense I was pregnant.
I nodded then looked at Jacob, his eyes filled with guilt and sadness. I hated seeing him so pained.
I basically chewed his head off when I first saw him last night, but it was my hormones and emotions taking control.
Pulling him into me, Jacob wrapped his warm arms around me tightly and kissed my head. "I love you." He said and I exhaled his coconut and beeswax aroma tiredly.
"I love you too, be safe."
He leaned back. "Go home, I'll call to keep you posted."
"Alright." I said as Caleb held the door open for me.
Glancing back at Sarah, who had a smile on her face, seeming to be laughing at something Embry said and I knew she would be alright.
Everyone was doing so fine without me, it would seem. Joshua and Daniel, have become men overnight- while Sarah has been slowly growing into her own.
The only ones that seem to truly need or want me around are Caleb and Jacob.
Jacob Black Pov
*Flashback*
16 Years Ago
I stood at the altar, waiting for the doors to open.
"Nervous?" Jeremiah Makah asked. He was another one of Leah's father figures. My dad was going to walk her down, though this day I can sense she was mourning Harry Clearwater's presence more than ever.
"Nope." I answered honestly.
What did I have to be nervous about?
"This moment is something that I wanted since she came back to me. Leah is my entire life. I'm in love with her. I waited so many years to ask her this because I felt marriage was something she did not believe in." Man was I right, "It was almost a fight to get her to agree."
She is going to be my wife, she's the mother of my children, I'll continue on to share my home and my life with her. She'll see me grow old and most likely insane, but there's no doubt she'll promise to love me through all of it.
Leah I know will always be right beside me no matter what.
Looking back I thought the world was too cruel, then to give me a partner like her. I assumed I had to go out searching, little did I know… she was right here all along, even when she moved away.
Jeremiah laughed. "Good thing she did, she would have regretted it if not." He stated. I glared around at the Witness for our small wedding.
Jeremiah, Sue, Embry, Seth, Rachel, Paul, Jared, Quil, Mason with his son Shane; all stood before me.
While beside me was Embry and Jeremiah, while Rebecca, Elena and Haylie all stood on the opposite side where Leah would be.
Sometimes happiness doesn't come from money or fame or power. Sometimes it comes from good friends and family to make a good life.
"The big part of a relationship is being able to communicate and be honest. As long as you keep that, you're in for a good one." Jeremiah said to me.
I nodded to him. "I never thanked you, for always being there for Leah. Even when I had no idea she was hurting." I say, speaking of years ago soon after the big battle and everything started to get back to normal, Leah went to visit him for about a month.
At that time I had no clue she had fallen in love with me, if you can call it that. Little did she know, I was falling for her as well- I was just very protective of Renesmee at the time. Yet, I needed them both.
"You don't have to thank me for that, Jacob. Leah has always been a child of mine. Her father Harry and I were best friends. As younglings, we went to school together. I vowed to always protect her. In those years after Harry's death, I asked Leah to come stay with me because I knew she needed help to heal. She will always remain in that spirit, as well will you. Healing is a journey of love and love for yourself. We all learn of it in many ways." He said placing a comforting hand on my shoulder and I thought of my mother.
I yearned for a mother as much as any person without one would. Leah had that nurturing touch behind all the feisty and boldness she carried.
That much I can recall through stories my father once told. My mother always had a kind-heart, and I see that in myself. She always went out her way to help people and I'm happy I have that trait in me.
Suddenly a familiar song started to play and I turned to stare down the aisle.
"What song is this?" I asked, remembering it from some movie Leah forced me to watch once.
"It's called 'Pictures Of You' by The Cure." Haylie said proudly. "Leah thought it was the perfect choice." She smiled and I nodded looking back at the door that was now opening.
In an amazing dress, Leah slowly but quickly walked down the aisle with my dad on her arm.
I guess the number one reason why everything is so staggering is because I'm sharing everything with the most beautiful and enticing person on the planet.
Without Leah, there wouldn't have been a story or reason to continue on.
She's my Inamorata, I trust her with my life and will do anything for her.
Looking back at the past years, I would've never thought to trade places with anyone. At times I find myself imagining if anything would've happened to Leah I'd be dementedly lost and lonesome.
I'm the moon, I don't make my own light. Leah is my Sun. There's no earth without her, there'd only be darkness if she was to disappear.
I smiled to myself happy that she in fact changed her mind.
I've never really thought about how vigorous my dad was when my mom died, but I can only seem to fixate on it now that the kids are getting older.
No matter how many times Leah assured me that if something was to happen to either one of us, the kids would be in good hands. Somehow, no matter what she says…. It won't clear my mind from continuing to imagine losing her… let-alone thinking about taking care of our kids all by myself.
Joshua is the oldest; He helps out enormously when it comes to handling Daniel and Caleb… as the oldest should. If you ask me he's smarter than your average-joe, at times he catches on to things way faster than I do. He reminds me of Leah a lot in that intelligent way.
Without Leah there's no life within me, she will forever be all I need to survive.
I took a step towards her, as she gave my dad an unreadable expression as he handed me her hand. She then looked at me and I smiled, pulling her to me fast.
She laughed. "Shouldn't there be space?"
"Not really." I smirked.
"Of course you would say that." She smiled though I stepped back a little, glancing at the pastor.
"Let's begin shall we." He said, speaking to the not-so crowded room. His salt and pepper hair gave me an image of Leah and I old and gray, stilling on our front porch with all of our grandchildren running around the yard. I hope that on that day, when I die, it's holding her hand.
"We shall." I nodded. "Before she changes her mind."
Leah shook her head. "I'm not."
"Okay..." He spoke and I continued to stare deep into Leah's eyes. "Before we begin I would like to bless all with Psalms 100."
"Oh, this should be good." Leah joked in a whisper and I smirked. We believe in the Creator of heaven and earth, but we weren't at all religious.
The guy began. "Shout with joy to the Creator, O earth! Worship the Creator with gladness. Come before him, singing with joy. Acknowledge that the Creator is him! He made us, and we are his. We are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanks; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and bless his name. For the Creator is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation." He paused.
"True marriage is more than joining the bonds of two persons. In its right relation, it's the uniting of two souls already attuned to each other. When such a true bond already exists between man and woman, it is fitting that an outer acknowledgment be made. This acknowledgment is the prime object of this gathering and this ceremony. We are here to bear witness to the entry into the closer relationship of husband and wife of these beloved parents who are already one in spirit. You are now taking into your care and keeping the happiness of the one person in all the world whom you love best. You are adding to your life not only the affection of each other, but also the companionship and blessing of a deep trust as well."
He paused.
"You are agreeing to share strength, responsibilities, and to share the end of this ceremony, legally you will be husband and wife, but you still must decide each and every day that stretches before you that you want to be one. Make such a decision and keep on making it, for the most important thing in life is to love and always need one another, not so much to fill the emptiness as to help each other know your fullness. May you want one another, but not out of lack. May you embrace one another, but not encircle one another. May you succeed in all important ways with each other, and not fail in the little graces. Look for things to praise, often say 'I love you' and take no notice of small faults. May you have happiness, and may you find it in making one another happy. May you have love, and may you find it in loving one another."
"Jacob, repeat after me." He said and I nodded still continuing to look at Leah who was staring right back with a grin on her face.
She was so beautiful. Her high cheekbones are more red than usual.
"I take you, Leah Clearwater, to be my wife and I promise before all who are present here to be your loving and faithful husband, I will serve you with tenderness and respect, and encourage you to develop The Creator's gifts in you. Of all as long as we both shall live even in sickness and health." He said and I've realized that these vows weren't making much sense, but then again this isn't a proper church or wedding for that matter.
I guess I'll take what I can get.
"I, Jacob Black, take you, Leah Clearwater, to be my wife and I promise before these people..." I laughed forgetting what he just said and Leah rolled her eyes amused. "To be your loving and faithful husband; in tenderness and respect as long as we both live shall in... without sickness and in health." I said really screwing up.
"Would you like to do that again?" He asked me.
"No, No that's okay. Let's just move it along."
"I know what he meant." Leah said fast.
"Okay... Leah, repeat after me." The pastor said to her.
"I take you, Jacob Black to be my husband and I promise before all who are present here to be your loving and faithful wife, I will serve you with tenderness and respect, and encourage you to develop The Creator's gifts in you. Of all as long as we both shall live even in sickness and health."
"I take you, Jacob Black to be my husband and I promise before everyone here to be your loving and faithful wife. I will serve you with tenderness and respect, and encourage you to develop The Creator's gifts in you. Of all as long as we both shall live even in sickness and health."
"Leah, Jacob, please both glaze in each other's eyes and repeat after me." He said and I held a deep breath. "Before The Creator and these witnesses, take you to be my companion, and I promise to love you, and to be faithful to you as long as we both shall live."
"Before The Creator and these witnesses, take you to be my companion, and I promise to love you, and to be faithful to you as long as we both shall live." We spoke together.
"Rings please?" He asked, and I turned letting go of Leah's hands to face Caleb.
Taking one step towards me, he lifted the small pillow and I grabbed my mother's ring as Leah grabbed the other she bought for me this morning.
"Okay...Now... Do you Jacob Black take this woman Leah Clearwater to be your wife, and follow the Creator's law and commandments? Do you promise to be to her a loving and loyal husband, to cherish and keep her safe?"
"I do." I smiled.
"You may place her ring." He said and I grabbed Leah's hand like I did on the beach, slipping the ring right on.
"Now... Do you Leah Clearwater take Jacob Black to be your husband, to live together and follow the Creator's law and commandments, an estate of marriage? Will you love him, comfort him, and honor him?"
"I will." She said and it felt like a huge concrete had been lifted off my shoulders.
Yes. I thought, rocking back and forward on my heels a little.
"These rings by their shape are a symbol of the undying love that exists between you for infinity. The substance of which it is composed is a symbol of purity, which shall ever characterize your mind and hearts in all your relationship together." He spoke. "By the authority vested in me by the State of Washington, I pronounce you to each other, husband and wife. You may kiss one another." He said and without hesitation I wrapped my arms around Leah's waist and leaned down as she peered up. I closed my eyes and kissed her smooth, most astonishing lips.
She put her arms around my neck tightly.
Hearing the sound of our family cheering, and feeling a small peck of what had to be sunflower seeds instead of rice from the ceiling, I took a step back, opening my eyes.
Leah did the same and we both glanced out as everyone was taking pictures, then I reached over as Rebecca put Sarah who was wide awake in my arms.
"Alright, boys, real fast picture." Leah said to Caleb, Daniel, and Joshua who ran closer towards us.
Hugging the family as tight as I could I looked down at Leah who turned her head to me and I kissed her just before the picture snapped.
"Just so you know, I don't think I can ever imagine marrying anyone else but you." She smirked. "Congratulations. How do you feel?" She joked.
"Golden. Like a million-bucks." I say, tilting my head and pulling her closer.
Leah's warm exotic lips found mine once again and just like that I was in heaven, for the billionth time in my life.
She smirked. "Good."
"Solid good, We are now together the way we're meant to be." I said kissing her one more time.
We make each other better. Sometimes we bring out the worst, but we will never let each other go. "You're really mine now."
"I've always been yours." She noted.
I nodded. "Alright, let's get outta here." I said, wanting to go home.
"Yes, let's go." Josh agreed.
"Yes, food. I'm craving that extra cheese pizza. Let's go." She blurted out and I laughed. Her random food cravings I absolutely love, even when she's no longer pregnant.
How can I not love her?
The song "Pictures Of You" By The Cure played again as we all walked out the chapel and I could not wait to be home with my family.