Wolves of the Pacific

by greenpeach20

In 1902, Renesmee Cullen grew tired of the tedious life of moving around with her family and decided to make the journey west as a mail order bride. Yet a chance encounter with a reddish brown wolf would change her life forever.

72. Chapter 72

Chapter 72

"I must say, Kevin," Anna said once Kevin was seated for breakfast, "I assumed your mother was nice, but I absolutely adored her. Frankly, I may have to insist she visit with you every year."

Kevin chuckled, "You be sure to tell mom at lunch today. I'm sure she'll be happy to reciprocate the sentiment."

"I wish your father could have been more involved," Levi said. "I have so many things I'd like to ask him, but I feel terrible speaking to him through you."

"Don't feel bad, Levi. I can always bring them over for dinner tonight again."

"I assumed that's what we were doing," Anna said. "I've got beans on the stove cooking and everything. I was planning to mash it into a hummus like I'd told you about."

"Absolutely. And thanks again for being so accommodating for Natalie. She didn't get a chance to tell you, but she really does appreciate it."

"Oh, I'm so happy she liked everything," Anna smiled. "I'm so used to cooking with butter and meat that when you told me she doesn't eat those things I was positively terrified."

"Rest assured Anna that everything you cook is always delicious," Kevin smiled.

"You're such a charming devil, you," Anna giggled and sipped her coffee. "Tell me, Kevin. Are you always this charming or just with us?"

"I'm charming with just about everyone, but with you all, I mean it," Kevin smiled.

They shared a small laugh amongst themselves and enjoyed the rest of breakfast before Levi had to leave for work for the day. Anna opened shop and Amber joined her up front to help with customers. Kevin stayed up front as well, helping when needed. When it finally came to be nearing lunch time, Anna closed shop, adding to the closed sign that they'd return by 1:30, and they all locked up house and shop before walking to the hotel to meet Kevin's family. When they arrived, everyone was already waiting downstairs in the lobby for them and when Renesmee caught sight of them, she stood up and went to greet them.

"Guten Morgen," Renesmee said and hugged Anna. "Jae m'a appris comment dire cela. Comment ai-je fait?" (Jae taught me how to say that. How did I do?)

"Sie haben wunderbar," (You did wonderfully) Anna answered, then translated it to French and Renesmee smiled.

"Voulez-vous rester ici pour le déjeuner ou aller quelque part?" (Did you want to stay here for lunch or go somewhere?) Renesmee asked.

"Dis que nous restons ici," (I say we stay here) Amber said. "Il n'y a pas de sens qu'il couper dans notre temps où nous pouvons manger ici." (No sense it cutting into our time when we can eat here.)

"Alors que diriez-vous que je parle à un employé et nous obtiendrons un siège. Nous pouvons mettre le projet de loi sur l'onglet et Kevin s'en occupera plus tard," (Then how about I speak to an employee and we'll get a seat. We can put the bill on the tab and Kevin will take care of it later) Renesmee said and winked teasingly at Kevin as they made their way to the dining area.

As they did, Renesmee took a moment to translate to the group so they knew what the plan was. A few minutes later, they were seated at a large table together and Natalie started filling up on bread. Always the supportive gentleman, Jae did so as well, only eating mountains of bread and coffee with Natalie so she wouldn't feel left out. Granted he also hassled the waiter just a little on Natalie's behalf to see if they couldn't get some steamed veggies and potatoes with salt. Thankfully, the waiter confirmed that would not be an issue.

"Comment a été le magasin aujourd'hui?" (So how has the shop been today?) Renesmee asked Anna once they were all finished reading through the menu.

"Occupé," (Busy) Anna said. "C'est la saison de mariage et les mariées viennent toujours avec une vengeance. Amber et moi-même avons fait tellement de bougies d'unité que nous pourrions les sculpter dans notre sommeil." (It's wedding season and the brides always come with a vengeance. Amber and myself have made so many unity candles we could carve them in our sleep).

"Oui, je connais bien le travail d'Amber," (Yes, I'm very familiar with Amber's work) Renesmee said. "J'adore la bougie qu'elle a sculptée pour moi il ya toutes ces années." (I adore the candle she carved for me all those years ago.)

"Qu'aimez-vous quand il brûle?" (How do you like it when it burns?) Amber asked.

"Oh, Je n'oserais pas l'allumer. Je suis terrifié que je le gâche." (I wouldn't dare light it. I'm terrified I'd ruin it.)

"Vous n'avez rien à craindre ," (You have nothing to fear) Anna said. "C'est ce que le réservoir est pour. Vous allumez la bougie et elle brûle à l'intérieur sans goutter sur les côtés et tant que vous ne le laissez pas sur pendant trop longtemps, la bougie restera dans un état vierge." (That's what the reservoir is for. You light the candle and it burns on the inside without dripping off the sides and so long as you don't leave it on for too long, the candle will remain in pristine condition).

"Peut-être ," (Perhaps) Renesmee said hesitantly. "Je suis content de le laisser éteint et de veiller à ce qu'il ne soit pas ruiné." (I'm content leaving it unlit and ensuring it doesn't get ruined).

"Peut-être que quand nous reviendrons, Amber pourra vous montrer comment l'allumer," (Perhaps when we get back, Amber can show you how to light it) Kevin suggested. "Vous allumez une bougie que vous m'avez montré comment faire, n'est-ce pas?" (You light that one candle you showed me how to make don't you?)

"Oui," Amber said. "Je ne l'allume jamais plus d'une heure." (I never light it longer than an hour).

"C'est à peu près le délai que je recommande aux clients de ne pas dépasser," (That's about the timeframe I recommend customers don't exceed) Anna confirmed.

"Dans ce cas, je peux devoir le déplacer dans notre salon où nous avons toutes nos photos. Cela me rappelle!" (In that case I may have to move it to our living room where we have all our pictures. That remind me!) Renesmee excused herself from the table and ran to the room she and Jacob were sharing. Jacob asked what was going on but all Kevin could say was she'd remembered something and ran off. When she returned, she was holding a picture she'd brought with them. It was their large family picture they'd taken after the twins were born. She sat back down, pulling her seat a little closer to Anna, and showed her the picture. "C'est ma photo préférée de nous tous ensemble." (That's my favorite picture of us all together).

"C'est une belle photo," (That's a lovely picture) Anna smiled. She looked at Kevin standing in front of Jacob, beside Renesmee and in a cute little suit with his hair done up nice. "Je suppose que c'est Kevin?" (I assume this is Kevin?)

"Oui, c'est Kevin," (Yes, that's Kevin) Renesmee smiled, the memory fresh in her mind as if it were yesterday. "Il avait environ cinq ans quand nous avons pris cette photo." (He was about five when we took that picture). Amber moved a little closer so she could see the picture and smiled.

"Tu étais si adorable," (You were so adorable) Amber said.

"Tu as tellement grandi depuis," (You've grown so much since then) Anna said handing the picture back to Renesmee. "Quel âge avait-il quand il a rejoint la guerre? Treize?" (How old was he when he joined the war? 13?)

"Exactement ça," (Exactly that) Renesmee said. "Il avait grandi un peu, mais il avait quand même l'air d'un petit garçon. Quand il est rentré à la maison et a quitté ce train, c'était comme nuit et jour. Il n'était plus mon petit garçon, c'était un jeune homme et j'ai juré que je regardais Jacob. Jacob plus pâle et plus léger." (He'd grown quite a bit, but he still looked like a little boy then. When he came home and stepped off that train, it was like night and day. He wasn't my baby boy anymore, he was a young man and I swore I was looking at Jacob. A paler, lighter haired Jacob.)

"Je ne peux pas commencer à imaginer à quel point vous étiez inquiet pour lui," (I can't begin to imagine how worried you were for him) Anna said. "Je suis sûr que je devais vous le dire avant, Kevin, mais honte pour vous pour les cheveux gris que vous avez sans doute donné à votre pauvre mère." (I'm sure I must have said this to you before, Kevin, but shame on you for the gray hairs you've undoubtedly given your poor mother.)

"Elle n'a pas encore été trouvée," (She's not found any yet) Kevin chuckled.

"C'est une chose que je regretted," (That is one thing I regret) Anna said glancing at the picture again and seeing Nathan and Natalie when they were little babies. "Je n'ai pas une seule photo d'Amber quand elle était bébé. Levi et moi avons pris une photo de famille avec elle au moment où nous pouvions, mais c'est la première photo que j'ai. Je n'ai rien de quand elle était encore un bébé." (I don't have a single picture of Amber when she was a baby. Levi and I took a family picture with her the instant we could, but that's the earliest picture I have. I don't have anything from when she was still a baby.)

"Au moment où j'ai trouvé Amber, elle a déjà apparu un tout-petit plus ou moins," (By the time I found Amber, she already appeared a toddler more or less) Kevin said. "Dans de meilleures circonstances, j'aurais aimé avoir une photo d'elle à cet âge, mais je ne pouvais pas trouver quelqu'un pour prendre la photo." (Under better circumstances, I would have loved to have a picture of her at that age, but I couldn't find anyone to take the picture.)

"Je ne me demande pas pourquoi," (I don't wonder why) Anna said.

"Quand tu as rencontré Amber, as-tu su que tu l'adopterais tout de suite?" (When you met Amber, did you know right away you would adopt her?) Renesmee asked.

"J'avais eu mon cœur sur elle, mais Levi est entré avec beaucoup de prudence. On nous a dit Amber était «différent». Nous n'avons pas reçu plus d'informations que cela et Levi n'a pas aimé, mais je ne prendrais pas non pour une réponse. Donc, nous sommes venus à Château avec pratiquement aucune information en plus que." (I'd had my heart set on it, but Levi came in very cautiously. We were told Amber was 'different'. We weren't given any more information than that and Levi didn't like that but I wouldn't take no for an answer. So we came to Chateau with virtually no information besides that.)

"Tu n'as pas parlé ŕ Amber de cette femme?" (Didn't you tell that woman about Amber?) Renesmee asked Kevin regarding Mrs. Lavoie.

"Oui, je lui avais dit tout," (Yes, I'd told her everything) Kevin said. "Mais elle ne pouvait pas très bien dire aux adopteurs de perspective qu'ils adoptaient quelqu'un qui n'était pas exactement humain. Ça ne se passe pas bien." (But she couldn't very well tell perspective adopters that they were adopting someone that wasn't exactly human. It doesn't come off well.)

"Alors vous pensiez qu'elle avait juste un handicap?" (So you thought she just had a disability?) Renesmee asked.

"C'est ce que nous avons suppose," (That's what we assumed) Anna said. "Mais quand nous sommes arrivés, Mme Lavoie a expliqué comment Kevin l'avait trouvée et ce qu'il lui avait dit. Levi était prête à partir après qu'elle nous a dit que son père était un vampire. Je ne l'aurais pas, cependant. Mme Lavoie nous avait présenté Amber et je l'aimais tout de suite. Je voulais la connaître avant de prendre une décision. Nous avons donc joué avec elle en bas pendant quelques heures et à la fin de la journée, Levi l'aimait autant que moi et nous avons accepté de l'adopter." (But when we arrived, Mrs. Lavoie explained how Kevin had found her and what he'd told her. Levi was ready to leave after she told us her father was a vampire. I wouldn't have it, though. Mrs. Lavoie had introduced Amber to us and I loved her instantly. I wanted to get to know her at leave before we made any sort of decision. So we played with her downstairs for a few hours and by the end of the day, Levi loved her as much as I do and we agreed we'd adopt her.)

"Je me souviens que Kevin nous avait envoyé un mot quand il a découvert que vous l'adoptiez," (I recall Kevin had sent word to us when he found out you were adopting her) Renesmee said. "J'avoue qu'il n'était pas moins furieux." (I admit he was no less than furious.)

"Oui," Anna said. "Ne nous étions pas rencontrés dans les meilleures circonstances." (We had not met under the best of circumstances.)

"Je suis désolé à ce sujet," (I'm sorry about that) Kevin said. "Ce n'était pas votre faute, mais Mme Lavoie est allée derrière mon dos et j'étais en colère contre elle pour cela. Je lui avais déjà dit que ma tante et mon oncle l'adoptaient. Je l'ai fait sortir sur vous deux et je ne devrais pas avoir." (It wasn't your fault, but Mrs. Lavoie went behind my back and I was angry with her for it. I'd already told her my aunt and uncle were adopting her. I brought it out on you two and I should not have.)

"Tout va bien, Kevin. Je comprends. Je ne t'ai jamais blâmé pour ça. Tout bien considéré, c'est compréhensible. Tout de même, je suis reconnaissant que vous nous laissiez la prendre. Elle a vraiment été une bénédiction," (It's alright, Kevin. I understand. I never blamed you for that. All things considered, it's understandable. All the same, I'm grateful you let us take her. She really has been a blessing) Anna smiled and patted Amber's shoulder. Kevin smiled weakly and was saved from answering when their food finally arrived. "Je voulais demander à votre fille," (I've been meaning to ask your daughter) Anna said to Renesmee, "Ce bracelet est absolument exquis. Je peux devoir vous prier de m'envoyer un juste comme il." (that bracelet of hers is absolutely exquisite. I may have to beg you send me one just like it.)

"Je crains de ne pas pouvoir," (I'm afraid I wouldn't be able to) Renesmee said. "Jae a fait ça pour elle." (Jae made that for her.)

"Est-ce vrai?" (Did he really?)

"Oui," Renesmee said. "Jacob m'a fait celui-ci et Nathan a fait Tomoeh le sien." (Jacob made me this one and Nathan made Tomoeh hers.)

"Je les adore," (I adore them) Anna smiled. "Si Levi était un homme d'art plus qu'un homme de nombre." (Were it that Levi were a man of art more so than a man of numbers.)

Anna giggled and she spoke with Renesmee about other things while Amber put her hand on her bracelet as if trying to hide it, keeping her hand under the table. She wasn't eating anything anyway. Renesmee and Anna did most of the conversing while Jacob spoke with the kids mostly. Eventually Amber and Anna left the hotel. Kevin stayed, wanting to show his family around and give them a proper tour of Berlin. He promised he'd bring them back for dinner that night and they said their goodbyes before parting ways. Amber continued to hold her wrist, keeping her bracelet out of sight while they walked down the road back to the shop.

"I can't wait for dinner tonight," Anna said as they walked home. "Renesmee's just a joy to be around. I'm sure Jacob is a nice man when he's able to talk, but I'm certain Kevin must get his charm from his mother."

"Charm most certainly," Amber smiled. "His schmoozing, on the other hand, I think he learned in Law School."

Anna giggled, "Perhaps you're right. He was certainly a handsome little boy wasn't he?" Anna asked and glanced at Amber. Then she saw her hand on her wrist...and the bracelet.

"He really was," Amber smiled distantly which Anna noticed all too well. "In some ways he hasn't changed a bit, but in others he's so different."

"Indeed," Anna said a little awkwardly, the wheels turning in her head. "I forgot to ask Renesmee about Kevin finding a nice girl. I would think she had given him a talking to about such a thing."

"I'm sure she has," Amber said briefly. There was a moment of silence before Anna said anything.

"You're probably right. I suppose if anything I should focus on your love life." Amber didn't answer and started biting her lips. Again, Anna noticed. "You've got one more year of University and I don't think you've so much as mentioned interest in any young man."

"I haven't met anyone in school that interests me," Amber said, trying to remain calm as if attempting to channel Kevin's natural demeanor.

"No?" Anna said. "What about at our Synagogue? Why, I'm sure if I spread word to our congregants that we were looking for a good husband for you, we'd have young men lining out the door."

"I suppose," Amber said. "No one from the synagogue comes to mind."

"I see," Anna said. "So you're not seeing anyone?"

"No," Amber said after a moment's hesitation that Amber hoped Anna had not noticed. She had.

"I see," Anna said. "Alright, Amber."

Amber avoided eye contact, looking at the windows of shops as they passed trying to make sure Anna didn't notice that she was nervous. However, Anna did notice and now she wasn't sure what to say or how to react. At the moment, she was thinking over everything to her memory. Now that she thought of it, perhaps there were times when Kevin hugged Amber longer than she might have thought necessary in retrospect. Then there had been the time they'd been out too late for the movies. Yet none of these were concrete proof and she certainly didn't want to over think herself into a fit. By the time they reached the shop, she decided there simply must be a reasonable explanation. Yet hours passed on running the shop for the remainder of the afternoon. A bride came in with her fiancé and they were being respectful of course, but then she saw the way that groom smiled at his bride. It reminded her of how Kevin looked at Amber.

"Mrs. Dymek, is everything alright?" the groom as suddenly when Anna was silent for too long.

"Oh, yes, I'm fine. I just thought I saw something on the window; my apologies. Is the candle to your liking?"

"Oh, it's exceptional," the bride said. "I adore it. Darling, I think we should light it every year for our anniversary for good luck."

"A splendid idea, Helen," the groom agreed.

Anna accepted the money for the candle and the pair walked out very happy customers. She rubbed her temples and convinced herself she was being ridiculous before returning to her work. She closed up shop while Amber was in the back carving another order. Levi returned home around the same time, but Anna went right to making dinner. She didn't even hear Levi step in and when he walked up to her and wrapped his arms around her, she breathed in sharply in what may have turned into a scream, but she refrained.

"I'm sorry, Anna, I didn't mean to startle you," Levi said. "Is everything alright?"

"Fine," Anna said as she took some deep breaths. "Just engrossed in cooking."

"Are you sure? You looked miles away."

"Yes, I'm sure," Anna kept breathing. Levi sighed and decided not to push it while Anna returned to the beans and potatoes. But before Levi could leave, she turned to look at him. "Levi?"

"Yes?" he asked, coming back to her.

"Have you and Kevin had any kind of talks lately?" she asked suddenly, whispering.

"I don't follow," Levi said, raising an eyebrow. "Why are we whispering?"

"It's nothing," Anna said, turning back to the food. "I just wondered if you and Kevin spoke of anything special while you were out drinking together."

"That was days ago, Anna," Levi chuckled.

"Like I said, it's nothing," she insisted.

"Anna, are you sure you're alright? You're acting strangely. Did something happen while you and Amber were at lunch? For that matter, where's Kevin?"

"No, no, everything went fine. Kevin just took his family to tour Berlin. They'll be here for dinner."

"Alright, then," Levi said. "I'll be reading the paper."

"Alright, dear," Anna said.

Anna kept her nose in making dinner trying to take her mind off things. By the time dinner was ready, Kevin came back to the house with most of his relatives in tow. Renesmee was there of course, but Nathan and Tomoeh had not come. Kevin explained when Levi asked that Scarlet was tired and started getting fussy so Nathan and Tomoeh decided they'd stay at the hotel. Jacob decided he'd stay behind as well, having spent the day walking around Berlin and having a throbbing head that being left out of a conversation would not help. Kyle decided he'd join his dad, leaving Natalie and Jae the only ones to come save for Renesmee.

"Je suis désolé que Jacob n'ait pas été ici. Il ne se sentait pas bien et Kyle a dit qu'il resterait à l'hôtel avec lui," (I'm sorry about Jacob not being here. He just wasn't feeling well and Kyle said he'd stay at the hotel with him) Renesmee said after stepping into the kitchen. Before facing her, Anna took a quiet breath and turned around so smile at Renesmee and be as normal as possible.

"Bienvenue," Anna smiled and hugged Renesmee. "Et ne vous inquiétez pas de la petite foule. Vous avez tous eu une très longue journée, donc je suis sûr que le reste est nécessaire. Je suis content que tu aies pu venir." (And don't worry about the small crowd. You've all had a very long day, so I'm sure the rest is needed. I'm just happy you were able to come.)

"C'est un plaisir d'être ici," (Well, it's a pleasure to be here) Renesmee smiled. They all sat together at the table and it turned out to be good that Anna didn't cook any meat at all seeing as Natalie was the guest that came.

While Renesmee and Anna talked to one another, she kept glancing at Renesmee's wrist and sometimes Natalie. Renesmee's was far more simple, but she wore it on her left wrist just like Natalie did and Amber. She glanced at Amber and Kevin who were sitting together. Kevin was talking to Levi and Jae, but Amber was smiling, involved in the conversation. She had her elbows on the table and her chin rested on her laced fingers with her wrists in view. The bracelet Amber wore was beautifully crafted with shells and cuttlefish bone. She returned her attention to Renesmee to talk but in the meantime she tried to remember when Kevin had sent that bracelet. She remembered it being three years ago. When that realization came to her, Anna needed to force herself to focus on Renesmee.

"Allez bien, Anna? Avez été si calme," (Are you alright, Anna? You've been so quiet) Renesmee asked.

"Je vais bien," (I'm alright) Anna insisted with a kind smile and returned the subject to what Renesmee had been talking about.

Periodically, Anna would glance at Amber and Kevin. It was always be briefly and most of the time they were smiling and talking amongst the group normally. Poor Natalie was left out most of the conversation, but Jae did his best to keep her involved. If needed, he'd stop talking to Levi and start talking to her. However, there was a moment when the two glanced at one another after Jae had relayed the story of his and Natalie's engagement, talking about how he'd taken her for a walk on the beach and proposed to her during the sunset. The way Kevin looked at her was longing and the look lingered. Amber seemed to smile at something and finally took her eyes away and everything seemed to return to normal, but not for Anna. Eventually it was the end of the night and they all had to leave. Kevin agreed he'd walk everyone home but Anna stopped them.

"Levi," Anna said.

"Ja?"

"Warum gehst du nicht mit ihnen und gehen sie zurück zum Hotel," (Why don't you go with them and walk them back to the hotel) she said.

"Das ist in Ordnung, Anna. Mir wird es gut gehen. Das Hotel ist nicht so weit," (That's alright, Anna. I'll be alright. The hotel isn't that far) Kevin said.

"Nein, es ist spät. Ich würde mich besser fühlen, wenn Levi mit dir ging," (No, it's late. I'd feel better if Levi went with you) Anna insisted. Levi agreed and gave Anna a kiss before leaving the house with Kevin and his family to walk them back to the hotel.

"Come help me with the dishes," Anna said to Amber when they were alone. Amber followed, but she kept a slight distance. Anna had spoken so weakly and it left Amber disconcerted. When they were in the kitchen, Anna immediately got to work while Amber stayed by the table slowly gathering the used plates.

"Are you alright?" Amber asked. Anna dropped what she was doing in a loud clank of pots and silver wear, causing Amber to jumped. Anna took several deep breaths.

"No," Anna said.

"What's the matter?" Amber asked.

Anna took another deep breath. "I'm furious….and I'm trying very hard not to scream at you…..but given that you've lied to me, that's extremely hard."

"I don't understand," Amber said, inadvertently placing her hands behind her back.

"When exactly were you planning to tell me?" Anna asked.

"What are you talking about?" Amber asked and finally Anna turned around to face her. She was about to speak but noticed Amber's hands weren't in view.

"Amber Charlotte Dymek, you put your hands where I can see them," Anna said in a hushed tone, but a tone that still frightened Amber. Slowly, she did as she was told and brought her wrists into view. "When were you planning to tell me that you and Kevin are engaged?"

"How did you-"

"I may have been oblivious to it before, but I can't very well play stupid after putting two and two together," Anna said. "Now why haven't you told me?" Amber was shaking and wasn't sure what to say. "Amber," Anna repeated with greater sternness.

"We aren't technically engaged," Amber attempted.

"Excuse me?" Anna asked.

"This bracelet doesn't mean we're engaged," Amber continued. "It means he wants to marry me but he needs to earn yours and daddy's approval before we can be considered engaged to be married."

"Well, he's certainly not earning it right now," Anna said.

"Mom, please," Amber begged, "we didn't tell you because we were waiting for the right time. Kevin wanted to have a business of his own back home and for me to be out of school. After all that, he planned to speak with daddy."

"You're telling me he was waiting for the opportune time yet he gives you a bracelet that, in effect, is an engagement ring?!"

"No!" Amber pleaded, Anna having raised her voice now. "I swear that's not what it is."

"Then what is it? A suggestion?" Anna yelled and Amber took a step back. There was a moment that passed where they just stared at one another. Additional realizations started coming to her mind. Those times when she'd left them alone in the candle room. When they had gone out together and been late because of the theatre and any other possible scenario in which the two could easily have been alone. It hit her like a ton of bricks. "Go to your room Amber."

"Mom, please-" Amber begged.

"I said to your room!" Anna yelled and Amber finally stepped away and went upstairs.

After Amber retreated to her room, Anna remained downstairs and kept cleaning the dishes, although she was doing so very slowly. She already regretted yelling at Amber, but she didn't know what else to do. She wasn't sure how to feel. Eventually she wasn't cleaning at all. She was just staring at the water with her hands dipped under until she heard the door open.

"Are you still doing dishes?" Levi asked when he noticed Anna. "Why isn't Amber helping you?"

"I sent her upstairs," Anna said. "Levi, can we talk please?"

"Of course. What's on your mind?" Anna turned to face Levi and saw Kevin at the entryway to the kitchen.

"Kevin, would you mind allowing me and Levi to speak privately?"

"Sure," Kevin said. "I'll just turn in for the night." Kevin left the kitchen to allow them to talk and went right upstairs. He went straight to the guest room and, when he entered, he saw a tiny note on his pillow. He smiled and went over to it to pick it up. But when he turned it over to see the message, in Amber's writing, it said, 'she knows'.

Downstairs, Levi leaned against the counter to look at Anna. "Anna, what's wrong? You've been acting strangely since I got home."

"Do you recall all those bracelets that Kevin's sister, mother and sister-in-law were wearing?"

"Sure," Levi said. "What about them?"

"They're all bracelets that, apparently, were given to them as a means of proposal."

"Yeah, so?" Levi asked. "What's the matter with that?"

"Nothing," Anna said. "You know that bracelet Amber's always wearing? The one Kevin had sent her a few years ago once it was approaching Christmas and Hanukkah?" Just then, it clicked what she was saying and Levi was silent. "It looks like Kevin and Amber have been engaged for the past three years." Levi was still rather quiet. Eerily so. Anna looked up at him and saw he was no more certain how to feel about this than she was. "Has Kevin said anything to you at all about this?"

"Not a word," Levi said, shaking a little. "I….there has to be a mistake. Have you asked Amber?"

"Yes, I have. She said that bracelet doesn't so much mean they're engaged as much as it means he wishes to and is seeking your approval. That's what she said."

"He's not said a word to me," Levi said. They looked at one another as if the other might know what to do, but eventually Levi broke the silence. "There has to be a misunderstanding. Kevin wouldn't just lie to us like that."

"I don't see how," Anna said. "Amber said she and Kevin were waiting to bring this up until she was out of school and he had a business of his own."

"I see," Levi said.

"What are we going to do?" Anna asked. After a moment of silence and Levi staring at the counter, he finally shrugged.

"I don't know," Levi said. Another moment of silence passed before Levi sighed. "Wait down here." Levi left Anna in the kitchen and walked upstairs to the guest room and knocked on the door. Barely a moment passed before Kevin answered.

"Is something wrong, Levi?" Kevin asked, appearing as though nothing were wrong. In truth, Kevin was prepared and he knew above all else, he needed to remain calm.

"Would you come downstairs? We need to talk."

"Of course," Kevin said and followed Levi down to the kitchen. Anna had taken a seat at the table, so Levi and Kevin joined her there. Once they were seated, no one spoke initially. Kevin would not be the first to talk. He needed to determine the plan of attack. Eventually, Levi broke the awkward silence.

"Anna is telling me that, when she and Amber were cleaning, it became known to her that you and Amber are engaged." Levi looked at Kevin, still unsure how to feel. "Is this true?"

Remaining calm, Kevin ensured he continued to sit up straight and professional. "I have given Amber a bracelet some time ago expressing a desire to one day marry her. That is correct."

Levi took a deep breath, suddenly extremely angry. "And you saw fit to keep this secret from me and Anna?"

"The intent was not to be secretive or to lie to either of you," Kevin answered. "I realize you're both upset and you've every reason to be and I realize I owe you an explanation."

"You most certainly do," Levi said evenly.

"Please allow me to start from the beginning," Kevin said and took a deep breath. "You're aware that my siblings and I are something other than human. It's not something I'm at liberty to discuss in detail, but what I can explain is that the relationship Amber and I have is different. It always has been and a lot of it stems from my lineage on my father's side."

"And what is that supposed to mean, exactly?" Levi asked. Kevin looked at Levi a moment before answering.

"When I first found Amber, I realized that we had a connection. It's a connection my father shares with my mother for example. I don't know how to adequately explain it except to say that I've been bound to her since we met. I am what she needs me to be and my only desire is to make her happy. When I gave her to you, that was the hardest thing I'd ever had to do, but I did it because I wanted to make her happy and you two did that. Since then, that's continued to be my goal but our relationship was always purely platonic. I loved her like a best friend and she felt the same. However, things changed when she got older. That connection we share evolved into something different. Something romantic. When you all fled her to Berlin and I came to visit, I realized the moment I saw her that she wasn't the little girl I knew before. It wasn't long before she felt the same way but we both realized this wasn't so simple and we needed to handle this delicately."

"And you call this 'handling it delicately'?" Levi asked pointedly. Kevin considered a moment how to answer.

"I assure you the intent was never to lie to you or to go behind your backs. I wish I could have gone to you right away and told you how we feel about one another but we both knew it wasn't so simple as that. She's still in school and I want above all else for her to complete her education. I also want to have a business of my own up and running before we entertained the possibility of making an engagement official. At the present time, our relationship is an acknowledgement that we love one another and a promise that one day I will ask for your blessing to marry her, but without your blessing there is no engagement."

"The problem arises that you never so much as made us aware this was even a thought you were entertaining," Anna said.

"You're right," Kevin said. "For that I apologize. If you will allow it, I can rectify that by expressing to you that I do love Amber. I always have. It may have only been in the past few years that our feelings for each other became something romantic but regardless of the degree of that love, it has always been there."

"The issue isn't your feelings," Levi said. "The issue is you lied to us purely by omission. You can word it differently and try to make it sound better than it is, but you lied to us, plain and simple, and whether it was your intent or not is completely irrelevant."

"You're right," Kevin said in an attempt to salvage a quickly sinking ship. "You're absolutely right and there's no excuse for it. At this point, all I can do is say I'm sorry and beg that you give me a chance to make things right."

"Do you realize the position you're putting us in?" Levi asked. "How can I ever trust you again? All this time, you've spoken to me as a friend and yet despite that, you withheld something so important from me."

"Only with the hope that, when I did ask, it would be with full confidence that I can prove to you that I'm a good match for her. That was part of the intent behind my family coming to visit. Amber suggested that I may have a better argument to present if I can prove I come from a good family."

"And is your family aware of that?" Anna asked.

"My family is aware I've imprinted on Amber," Kevin said.

"Imprinted?" Levi asked, extremely frustrated.

"Yes, sir, imprinted," Kevin said. "It's that connection my parents share that I had mentioned before. My parents are aware of my imprinting on Amber. Please don't be upset with my mother for not bringing it up. I asked her not to." Another moment of silence passed before it was broken.

"I don't really know what to say," Levin finally said.

"I know there's nothing I can say that would change the situation," Kevin answered. "I can only beg your forgiveness and hope that I can earn back your trust."

"That's a big ask," Levi said. "When trying to explain yourself, there's one point you've made abundantly clear: you plan to take her to America."

"Correct," Kevin answered.

"So, really, you're telling me you were planning to ask my permission to take my daughter away?"

"No, sir," Kevin defended bluntly. "I would never do that to you or Amber. I have family obligations that require I remain home but does not mean Amber and I can't visit frequently."

"The way you do now?" Anna asked, pointedly unimpressed with that prospect.

"More if you wish," Kevin answered calmly.

"I'm frankly not in the mood to discuss custody of my daughter," Levi said.

"With all due respect, Amber isn't a child anymore," Kevin said. "It's not fair to her to speak of her as though she is. She will always be your daughter, Levi. She chose you and Anna because she loves you both, but she loves me too. And I love her. And you mark my words if she so much as mentions missing you, I'll put her on the next boat to Germany to visit. I know you're both upset with me and I deserve that. But please let me make things right." Levi stared at Kevin a moment and finally took another deep breath.

"Anna," he said.

"Yes?"

"Would you mind fetching Amber? Kevin's right about one thing: it's not fair to her to treat her like a child. If what Kevin's saying is true, they're both culpable in this."

"Levi, please don't place any blame on Amber," Kevin interrupted. "This is all my fault and I take full responsibility for it."

"Regardless, it's only fair to let her have a say," Levi said. As requested, Anna left the table to go upstairs. Amber was in bed reading one of Kevin's letters. She needed the comfort, especially after overhearing her father coming upstairs demanding to speak to Kevin. However, she tucked the letter under her pillow for safe keeping when she heard a knock on her door. She got it hidden just in time before Anna stepped into her room.

"Come downstairs, Amber," Anna said and left right away. Amber, being in her nightgown and technically indecent, grabbed a robe and put it on before following downstairs. She sat in the empty chair after Anna took her seat.

"Now that you're down here," Levi said in a slightly hushed voice. "Kevin has explained that you two have been making plans to get married. Your mother told me what you'd told her and Kevin is saying the same but the singular point of contention is the fact that you two kept this secret."

"Daddy, I promise, we would never have married without telling you," Amber pled.

"How can I be so sure? You saw fit to be engaged behind my back."

"I'm sorry, daddy," Amber said, trying not to cry. "We were only waiting until a time when getting married would be a possibility. Kevin said that he planned to officially ask you next year."

"That doesn't offer much in the way of comfort to me, Amber," Levi said.

"Levi," Kevin said, figuring he'd try to make an argument. "I know you're upset, but please know we never meant to hurt you or Anna. All I want is for Amber to be happy. I make good money back home and with Alphonse and I opening our own business, it'll be even better. I can provide for her, give her a good home just as you do now. I would never ask for her hand if I wasn't positive I could ensure she'd want for nothing. But above all, I know what she is. She doesn't have to hide from me or try to explain herself away like she does with everyone else." Kevin watched as Levi seemed to think over what he'd said. Anna seemed to soften just a little, but she was far from convinced he could tell. Eventually, Levi rubbed his face in frustration and groaned.

"I need time to think about this," Levi said. "Anna and I have a lot to discuss. In the meantime Kevin, under the circumstances, I think it would be best you stay in a hotel for the remainder of your stay."

"Daddy-" Amber protested, but Levi held up his hand telling her to be quiet.

"You and I will have lunch tomorrow," Levi continued. "It'll be best to discuss this when we've had a chance to cool our heads and my wife and I have had a chance to decide how we feel about this."

"I understand," Kevin said.

"Then we'll meet at that café up the road from the hotel your family is staying at. 12:00."

"Yes, sir," Kevin answered politely and stood from his chair. "I'll pack my things and go to hotel. I'll be out of here in 10 minutes."

"Thank you," Levi said. Amber sat at the table flabbergasted and tears in her eyes as she stared at the table in front of her. As promised, just a few short minutes later, Kevin returned downstairs with his suitcase in hand.

"I'll see you at the café tomorrow, Levi," Kevin said once he was at the door. Levi just nodded. Kevin went to take the knob of the door when Amber stood from the table and went to Kevin's side, hugging him suddenly and finally crying. Kevin placed down his suitcase and hugged her back. Neither Levi or Anna stepped in. Don't worry, Amber. I'll take care of it. Everything will be alright. I love you.

Amber sniffed and cried, unable to answer the thoughts being pushed into her mind. Not wanting to risk making the situation worse or any further compromised, he did not kiss her. He just hugged her tight and said goodbye before finally taking his suitcase and leaving. Amber stared at the door a few minutes before retreating to her room again where she promptly stuck her head in her pillow and cried. When they were alone, Levi rubbed his face again and sighed heavily.

"What do we do, Anna?"

"I was hoping you knew," she answered.

"Damn that man to hell," Levi muttered. "Here I am ready to rip him apart and he stays so damned calm."

"I suppose we need to ask ourselves a serious question."

"What question is that?"

"If we'd not found out and Kevin was able to ask us for our blessing as he'd intended, would we have said yes?" Anna and Levi shared a look. Instinctively, Levi said yes. Kevin was right; he could provide for her and be a good husband to her and Amber would never have to hide from him. Yet Levi couldn't shake that feeling of betrayal.

"I suppose the honest answer is yes," Levi said. "We always knew she wouldn't be able to marry just anyone given the situation. From a rational standpoint, Kevin's a good match." Anna was silent and waited for Levi to say more. Eventually he did. "I don't know."

"He certainly can't stay here anymore," Anna finally said. "All those times I've left them alone. It's not appropriate. I suppose I should have known better."

"Do you think they've….." Levi couldn't finish the thought.

"I don't know," Anna said. "I don't want to jump to conclusions but…I don't know. A part of me wants to believe they would be more responsible than that, but another part of me thinks it's naïve to assume they've not."

"Realistically are we really ones to talk?"

"That was one time," Anna said defensively. "It was one time and you and I were getting married in a few weeks anyway, so it doesn't count."

Levi finally chuckled a little, but it didn't last. "What do you think we should do?"

Anna looked at Levi a moment trying to think and finally sighed and took Levin's hand. "I think we need to try to be rational and I think we need to think about what's best. Is this something we can forgive and, if so, are we okay with giving Amber and Kevin our blessing?"

"That's the problem, Anna. I don't know. It's the fact that he lied to me. We talk all the time and we've been good friends, but he still lied to me. That time Kevin and Amber were out so late….he told me there was nothing going on. So if Amber's had that bracelet all this time, than he lied to me then too. I can't just ignore that but I can't pretend he doesn't have a valid point. He is good for her."

"And I suppose a blind man could see he loves her," Anna admitted.

"And I suppose when we confronted him, he did handle himself very well," Levi admitted and then sighed again.

"Whatever you decide is the best course of action, I will stand by your decision," Anna said and Levi gave her the smallest faint of a smile.

"Putting it all on my shoulders I see," Levi joked.

"You are the head of the household," Anna answered and they smiled at one another.

"I'll think about. I'll think about it and I'll sleep on it."

Anna smiled reassuringly and squeezed Levi's hand. They finally retreated to bed and Levi laid in bed trying to weigh everything in his mind. After having left, Kevin went to the hotel and got himself a room, but he didn't stay long. He dropped off his suitcase and went back outside to wander the streets. He needed to clear his head and he needed to come to a conclusion of what he would do and say. He'd promised Amber he'd take care of it, but he wasn't even sure how. He started putting an argument together in his head as though he were about to go into court. In truth, it's what the situation felt like. As he was walking, he happened upon the church from so long ago when Levi had asked to speak with him after Kevin and Amber had been out too late. He wasn't sure what else to do, so Kevin went into the church. There was a priest up front that was attending to a wall of candles that had been lit. Kevin walked down the aisle to the pews up front and sat down staring at the stained glass window. While he was staring, the priest walked over and even sat down beside him.

"It's awfully late to be out is it not?" the priest asked. Kevin recognized his voice instantly.

"I didn't take your advice, Father," Kevin said. The priest seemed confused a moment, but seemed to then recognize Kevin's voice too.

"What happened, my child?"

"You had suggested when we spoke that I be honest with her father right away. I was not. I was too scared and now I fear I may have ruined everything. I'm not sure how, but her mother found out of our relationship and her father is upset that we've been in love all this time and said nothing to them."

"I see," the priest said.

"I did what I could to salvage the situation, but I don't know how well I did. I stayed calm, apologized for everything, and told him I love his daughter and want to marry her."

"And what did her father say?"

"He said he would speak to me again tomorrow."

"Hmm," the priest said. "Perhaps all is not lost, my child. Any loving father would be distressed to hear such news that his child was engaged without his knowledge, but perhaps a night to think will work to your advantage."

"I hope it does," Kevin said. "I told her I would take care of this and make everything better. She was so upset when I left."

"And you love this young woman?"

"With all my heart," Kevin answered. "I meant it when I told her father that."

"I think he believed you," the priest said. "Do not fret, my child. Recall Corinthians 13: 4-8. 'Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.'"

"'And now these three remain:'" Kevin continued as he quoted Corinthians 13:13, "'faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love'."

The priest smiled, "Very good my child. With love and God in your hearts, your love will prevail."

"Thank you, Father," Kevin smiled.

"What is the family's name, my dear boy? Do they attend this church? Perhaps I can seek her father and share words of encouragement towards approval."

"They do not attend this church," Kevin said.

"What church do they attend? Is this young woman you love Catholic?"

"She's Jewish," Kevin answered bluntly.

"I see," the priest said, his resolve weakened. "Did you know this when you began courting her?"

"Yes, Father," Kevin said.

"Surely that is not sensible, my child," the priest said. "How will you raise your children?"

"In a home with a mother and father that love them and one another very much," Kevin answered. The priest looked at Kevin a moment and finally smiled.

"A very Christianly answer, my child," the priest said. "However, I meant will the children be raised Catholic or Jewish?"

"Amber would have them raised Jewish," Kevin said. "I am content to support her."

"Support," the priest said, appearing thoughtful, and then nodded. "That is an essential ingredient in a happy marriage. Does it stand to reason that she supports you and your faith?"

"Yes, Father," Kevin answered. In truth, aside from him confirming their children would be raised Jewish, they'd not discussed religion much further than that.

"What is her name, my child?"

"Amber," Kevin answered and, without really noticing, smiled longingly and the priest chuckled.

"You do love her," he said. "I can see it in your smile."

"I love her more than I can describe," Kevin said. "I will beg her father to allow me her hand if I have to."

"I suspect that won't be necessary," the priest said. "What is her family's name, my child?"

"Dymek," Kevin answered.

"I know the name," the priest said kindly. "Her mother owns the candle shop. I've had many a bride come here with their unity candles. Truly the work of angels."

"Amber and her mother are gifted artists," Kevin smiled. "Amber can paint and carve soaps as well."

"Yes, I'm aware," the priest smiled. "I had a bride that had purchased a unity candle from them and demanded she wanted sunflower soaps at each and every table. A needy young woman, but a good Christian woman. I recall a bride who demanded she wanted her wedding photo painted."

"I saw that," Kevin smiled. "It was a beautiful painting. Amber added hints of color to make it stand out."

"Yes, I know. Rebecca would not let a single soul at church forget it," the priest chuckled and Kevin chuckled too. "Her father is a banker is he not?"

"He's an accountant," Kevin said. "Levi's a numbers man. I wish I were so talented."

"What is your profession?"

"I'm a lawyer," Kevin said. The priest chuckled a little and patted Kevin on the shoulder.

"I suppose that can't be helped," the priest joked and Kevin chuckled. "Amber loves you too?"

"She does," Kevin smiled.

"Has lying been your only sins?" the priest asked. Kevin weighed whether or not to be honest, though it seemed pointless not to be.

"We have committed sins of the flesh," Kevin admitted. "We are careful, but it does happen."

"So it's not an infrequent sin?" the priest asked.

"No, Father," Kevin answered.

"I will make one last recommendation to you, my child. When you speak to her father tomorrow, you speak to that man honestly. If you love Amber, show her father respect and speak with him honestly. Do you understand, my child?"

"Yes, Father," Kevin said.

"Very good," the priest said. "Now it is late, so you had best go home and sleep. You need your senses for tomorrow. I will pray for you and Amber, my child. I do not know the young woman personally, but I've heard nothing short of wonderful things of her. She will make you a wonderful wife, Jewish or otherwise. And if you love her so, be respectful to her father and be truthful with him."

"Yes, Father," Kevin said. "And thank you."

"God's blessing onto you, my child," the priest said. "Say your prayers tonight as well."

Kevin nodded and left the church to walk back to the hotel. It was late by the time he got back, but when he arrived, he saw Jacob at the bar. No one was tending the bar. Rather Jacob merely sat there reading. Kevin walked over to him and when Kevin noticed him, he looked at Kevin strangely.

"What are you doing here? It's late?"

"I was asked to sleep here," Kevin said, sitting beside Jacob. "Amber's parents found out that we're engaged. Anna figured it out one way or another and they're not happy with me."

"What will you do?" Jacob asked, closing his book.

"Levi and I are meeting for lunch tomorrow so I'll know by then. We never yelled or raised our voices. I kept the conversation as tame and as controlled as I could. I just hope it was enough."

"When did they kick you out? It's nearly midnight."

"They kicked me out hours ago. I stopped by a church after walking around to clear my head."

"Oh," Jacob said a little flippantly. "How did that go?"

"I told him what happened and he told me I needed to be honest with Levi when we talk tomorrow and that he had faith everything would work out."

"Hell, I could have told you that," Jacob smiled. "Do you want one of us to come with you?"

"No," Kevin said. "This needs to be between me and Levi."

"Alright," Jacob said. "I'll leave you to it, then."

"I appreciate it," Kevin smiled. "Seeing as you could've given me that last bit of advice the priest gave me, can I ask you something else?"

"Sure you can," Jacob said.

"What was it like when you finally met Grandma and Grandpa?"

Jacob chuckled, "Oh boy. Well, for starters, he said he should kill me for everything that happened but seeing as you were inevitably in the picture it was the only reason he'd not killed me on site. Then we spiraled into a lovely debacle with getting your mother divorced legally from her first husband."

"So not well?" Kevin chuckled.

"No, not at all," Jacob smiled. "We get along fine now, though. But I do recall him telling your mother once that he'd sooner skin me and pin me to a wall so as to make an example of me. In fact, your mother asked him how he'd explain that to you and he'd said something to the effect of 'don't be stupid like your father'. But that was years ago, so my memory's a little fuzzy."

"Well, shit, by comparison, I'd say I'm in fine waters," Kevin said.

"Considering you probably didn't tell Levi to go fuck himself like I did your grandpa, I'd say so."

Kevin chuckled, "I guess I do have that going for me."

"You didn't inherit my temper," Jacob joked. "Be grateful for that."

"I love you too, dad," Kevin chuckled. "Do you think it'll turn out alright?"

"Knowing you, Kevin, you'll pull a miracle out of your ass. You seem to have a talent for that and I'm not sure where you got it from. I'm glad you did, though."

"Believe me, so am I," Kevin said.

"Just stay calm like you always do," Jacob said. "If anyone can smooth this over, it's you. "

"Thanks, dad," Kevin said. "I'll get to bed. You should too. What are you doing up this late for anyway?"

"I couldn't sleep," Jacob said. "Call it a hunch, but I felt like I should stay up and read. Aren't you glad I did?"

Kevin smiled, "As a matter of fact I am. And thanks again."

"Any time, Kevin," Jacob said. "And good luck."

"Thanks," Kevin answered and finally retreated to the room he'd rented. Jacob returned to his own room shortly thereafter and saw Renesmee in bed sound asleep. He crawled into bed and noticed Renesmee stir.

"I'm sorry. Did I wake you?"

"You woke me when you left," Renesmee said. "Is everything alright?"

"I guess we'll find out tomorrow," Jacob said. "Apparently Amber's parents found out about Kevin and Amber."

"How?" Renesmee asked.

"Kevin's not sure," Jacob said. "He's just trying to do some damage control. He's meeting with Levi tomorrow to talk."

"Do you think it would help if I went to speak with Anna?"

"I'd wait until Kevin tells us how it went with Levi," Jacob said. "Don't worry, Renesmee. It'll work out alright. Knowing Kevin, he handled the situation well and will handle it better when he's had time to plan. He's smart like you are. He'll figure this out."

"He's smart like you too," Renesmee smiled and reached up to give Jacob a kiss. "Do you remember that letter he'd sent you when he was in France? When he'd told you about how he stood up to his Sergeant? You remember what he'd said?"

"Kevin told him he's the man he is because of me," Jacob said.

"Exactly," Renesmee smiled. "And don't you forget that. We both made a smart man, but he's also tough as nails. That's all you."

Jacob chuckled, "You're plenty tough, Renesmee." They shared a kiss and Renesmee snuggled up to Jacob.

"So guess what," Renesmee said.

"What?" Jacob asked.

"Carlisle was kind enough to say he'd look after everyone long enough for us to take a nice trip up to England and Scotland. He suggested we visit Briton, London and Glasgow."

"For what?" Jacob asked. "Empty grasslands and snobby white people?"

Renesmee swatted Jacob's chest, "Come on, Jacob. This is the first time I've ever been out of America. I think I should be allowed to visit my family's homes. Daddy was born in England and mom's family is from Scotland. What's wrong with wanting to go back to my roots?"

"The fact that your roots are the same as what you already see at home?" Jacob said.

"We're going to London and Glasgow Jacob and I will enjoy myself whether you decide to be a sourpuss the whole time or not," Renesmee said and snuggled back into Jacob's chest.

"Sure, sure," Jacob answered. "I'm not eating Haggis again."

"I never said you had to," Renesmee said.

"I'm not drinking that whiskey again either," Jacob said.

"Never said you had to," Renesmee repeated.

"I reserve the right to call them plague ridden murderers," Jacob said.

"You will do no such thing," Renesmee said, staying in his arms.

"Yes I will," Jacob said.

"No you won't," Renesmee said back.

"Yes I will."

"You're 50, Jacob, not 5."

"I'm not 50 yet, Renesmee," Jacob protested and Renesmee smiled with her eyes closed, still in Jacob's arms.

"Goodnight, Jacob," Renesmee smiled.

"Don't ignore me, Renesmee. I reserve the right."

"Goodnight, Jacob," Renesmee said more sternly.

Jacob finally chuckled and held her just a little closer and kissed the top of her head. The next morning, Kevin woke up after receiving virtually no sleep. In truth, he was preparing. He mapped out his case in his head and he'd fight to the death if he had to. When he cleaned up and got dressed, he made sure to wear his nicest suit that he'd brought with him and usually saved for when he joined the Dymeks to the Synagogue. While he was getting ready, there was a knock at the door and when Kevin answered, it was Kyle.

"Dad told us what happened," Kyle said. "Mind if I come in?"

"Sure," Kevin said and stepped aside. "I don't suppose you have an idea what might have tipped them off?"

"Well, they're close enough that I could hear them from their house when I opened my mind. It looks like Anna saw all the bracelets and she figured it out from there."

"Shit," Kevin sighed. "What about Levi? What kind of mood is he in?"

"Uncertain," Kyle answered bluntly.

"Shit," Kevin muttered again.

"Not necessarily," Kyle said. "You've been preparing all night, so don't get discouraged. If it helps, the fact that you handled yourself so professionally worked greatly in your favor, so keep it up. It annoyed Amber something awful, but if it works in the end, she won't be complaining."

"How is Amber?"

"She cried all through the night it seems," Kyle said. "At least she was crying when she fell asleep."

"They don't blame her do they?"

"They're upset with you both," Kyle said. "However, so far you're not so deep in the hole you can't dig yourself out."

"Thanks, I guess," Kevin said. "What time is it?"

"Your clock says 11:30."

"Then I'll get going now," Kevin said. "Tell everyone to wish me luck."

Kevin left the hotel and made the short walk to the café just up the road. It was the same café he'd met with Levi previously. Wanting to start off on a good note, Kevin ordered them a whole pot of coffee and waited for Levi to arrive. He saw Levi coming from nearly a mile away, but stood up to greet him when he approached the café.

"Good afternoon, sir," Kevin said. "I ordered us coffee to start if that's alright."

"That's perfect, thank you," Levi said and the two sat down together.

"How's Amber?" Kevin asked, unable to resist.

"She was still in her room when I left," Levi said. "I suppose we should get to the point."

"Yes, sir," Kevin said, making a point to sit up just a little straighter. "I would like to apologize again for this. I realize the way I've handled this has not been acceptable."

"No, it has not," Levi sighed. "Listen, Kevin," Levi appeared thoughtful, "I'm not upset because you love my daughter. I'm not upset that you wish to marry her and I'm not even upset that you proposed to her. I'm upset because you lied to me. I remember sitting with you at this very café not so long ago and saying to you that I know nothing's going on but you need to be mindful. You looked me in the eye and said I was correct: there's nothing going on. Do you understand why that might infuriate me?"

"Yes, sir," Kevin answered. "That was wrong of me."

"It was more than wrong of you, Kevin. It was disrespectful. It was disrespectful of me, my wife and of Amber. If you loved her and wanted to marry her, than you damn well should have had the decency to come and talk to me." While Levi's tone became harsher, he did his best to keep his voice down. Kevin stuck to his steel composure and nodded.

"I'll not try to make an excuse for it, sir," Kevin said. "But there is no past tense. I love and want to marry Amber. I can't change my previous wrongdoing, but I can do whatever you see fit to earn your trust back and earn your blessing."

Levi took a deep breath. "I don't know how you can, Kevin. I thought we were friends but you went behind my back and lied to my face. How can I forgive that? How can I ever trust you again?"

"We are friends, Levi," Kevin defended. "I'm sorry I've hurt you and Anna. I'll never forgive myself for being so careless and I will do everything in my power to make this right. Just name any condition and I'll make it happen. I love Amber, but I also value your trust and your friendship. I'm sorry to have done anything to have brought my trustworthiness and our friendship into question. I want us to trust one another again. I want you to feel confident that I'd be a good husband for Amber. That's why I wanted to wait to tell you. I wanted to be sure I could prove I'm good enough. I've clearly failed in that thus far, but I will gladly beg for the chance to redeem myself."

Levi looked thoughtful again. "Then let us start with you being completely and totally honest with me."

"Yes, sir," Kevin answered.

"When did you start feeling this way for my daughter?"

"I realized my love for her turned romantic when I first came to visit after your move to Berlin. So about 4 years ago."

"And how long after that was it that you proposed?"

"I sent her the bracelet through mail shortly thereafter. I explained that it was a bracelet symbolizing to her that I would come to you and ask for your approval to marry her."

"And what if I said no?"

"Then I'd give her a new one and try again," Kevin said. "I would do whatever it took to win your approval as I will do now."

Levi nodded, but then he suddenly look extremely uncomfortable. "Anna pointed out the fact that there have been a number of times when you and Amber were left alone." Another long moment of silence passed. "I'll not ask you any additional details, but going forward, you and Amber are never to be alone like that again. Is that clear?"

"Absolutely, sir," Kevin said, more than willing to keep it at that. There was another moment of awkward silence between them.

"Should I be concerned that Amber might be…" Levi began but he couldn't finish.

"We've made a point to be careful, but if she is, I will take full responsibility. I take full responsibility regardless. I should never have allowed anything like that to happen, but I beg that you know it was never to take advantage of her. We only acted on being so in love." Levi was prepared to be angry with Kevin, however he couldn't be. He knew Kevin was being honest with him about this.

"Regardless, you're not to lay a hand on her until you've made an honest woman of her," Levi finally said. "Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, sir," Kevin answered.

Levi breathed deeply again. "As to my approval, I'm sure you can understand, but my answer is no."

"What can I do to change your mind?" Kevin said.

"You often speak of starting a business with your friend Alphonse. Obviously, I expect this to come to fruition."

"I'll work with him and make arrangements immediately," Kevin answered.

"In that case, I assume you will be in a neighborhood near a city?"

"We are building up a clientele in Seattle. It's a good size city in Washington and it will keep me in range of my family in Forks."

"I understand," Levi said. "In that case, I will expect that you find a good home in a good neighborhood for my grandchildren to be raised."

"Consider it done," Kevin answered, a smile beginning to creep onto his face.

"I fully expect said grandchildren will be raised Jewish," Levi said.

"Amber said as much and I support her in this," Kevin said.

"So you two have discussed children?" Levi asked.

"At length," Kevin answered.

"Really?" Levi said.

"Yes, sir," Kevin nodded. "Amber expressed to me previously that she wanted to raise our children Jewish. I have no problem with that."

"And your family does not object?"

"No, sir," Kevin said. "I'm baptized as Catholic, but I suppose I'm what you might call a stormy weather Catholic. I only go to church when I'm upset."

"I assume you went last night, then?"

"Yes, sir," Kevin said. "The priest advised I needed to be honest with you and recited a few passages about love. He said he was familiar with Amber and Anna too. Apparently a number of the brides they've made candles for go to that church."

"And what did the good Father say about a Catholic loving a Jewish girl?"

"He asked how we planned to raise our children and I told him 'in a home where their parents love them and each other very much'."

Levi finally smiled a little, "I expect that as well. Speaking of which, any home you reside must be near a Synagogue."

"Yes, sir," Kevin said.

"They have Synagogues do they not?"

"I'll have to look into the matter," Kevin said. "There're plenty of Synagogues where I live now, but I will make a point to research it further when I return home."

"Good," Levi said. "For that matter, with regards to her going to America. Anna and I will fully expect to still see Amber frequently. The summer is an excellent start. Hanukkah is a must."

"Perhaps we could have you with us for Hanukkah," Kevin suggested. "I'm happy to pay for it as well."

"We will see," Levi said. "Though when grandchildren do come into the picture, not being with them for Hanukkah will not be tolerated."

"Absolutely," Kevin agreed. "If I may make one suggestion. What of the possibility of coming to America with us? You have a very marketable skill and would have no trouble finding work anywhere in the country you wanted. And Americans will adore Anna's candles just as much if not more than they do here. We can all live near one another and Amber and our children can visit any time they please and vice versa."

"While I appreciate the suggestion, I can't say I'm thrilled with the idea of moving to America," Levi said. "Though I suppose it's worth considering assuming my initial demands are met."

"Consider it done," Kevin said. "The moment I'm home, Alphonse and I will get things started with our business. In the meantime, I'll look for places in the city and Synagogues."

"Keep me posted," Levi said.

"And Levi," Kevin said. "Seeing as you've denied my initial proposal, tradition dictates that I present Amber with a new bracelet as a symbol that I'm trying again. Will you permit me?"

"Go right ahead," Levi said.

"Thank you, Levi. This means the world to me." The two finally shared a small smile. "Would you mind if I went to see Amber?"

"Go ahead," Levi said. "Just remember, you're to stay within range so Anna can see you."

"Yes, sir," Kevin answered.

"As to the remainder of your stay, I would still prefer you remain in the hotel, however see towards those conditions I mentioned and perhaps next we see you, you'll be able to stay with us. Consider it a sign that you've won back my trust. Until then, I must insist you stay in a hotel."

"I understand," Kevin said.

Finally, the two were able to relax just a little and Kevin felt hopeful again that things would be alright. Levi returned to work while Kevin went straight to the shop. He walked in through the front rather than the side door and Anna was up front with a kid they'd hired for the summer.

"Good afternoon, Anna," Kevin said.

"I assume you and Levi had a chance to talk?"

"Yes, ma'am. I was hoping I could see Amber. With your permission of course."

"Daniel," Anna said and the young man looked at her. "Keep an eye on the shop for a moment. I'll be right back."

"Yes, Mrs. Dymek," the boy said and Kevin followed Anna through the door into the house. When they came in, Amber stepped out of the candle room and went right to Kevin for a hug. Anna stayed put near them while they hugged but did close the door between the house and the shop.

It's alright, Amber. Everything will be alright.

"How did your talk with Levi go?" Anna asked.

"Very well," Kevin said and looked at Anna, never taking Amber from his arms. "I want to apologize to you too. I should have had the courage to tell you from the beginning how I feel about Amber. Levi made it clear that there are demands I will need to meet to earn back his trust and I will ensure those demands are met."

"What demands were those?" Anna asked.

"He wants Alphonse and I to start our business, he wants me to have a good home in a good neighborhood near a Synagogue and our children are to be raised Jewish. I will ensure each and every demand is met and I will gladly meet any additional requirements you may wish to add."

"What of Amber seeing us?"

"It's something we'd have to discuss in greater detail later, but I assure you as I did Levi that you will see Amber often. I suggested Hanukkah could be spent with us in America."

"We will discuss it later, then," Anna said.

"Was daddy angry?" Amber said against Kevin's chest.

"He was at first," Kevin said. "But I think we came to understand each other. He hasn't given his blessing, but he is giving me the opportunity to change his mind." Kevin looked at Anna. "Your mind as well."

"I don't doubt you can provide for Amber and be a good husband," Anna said. "However, you need to understand that lying to us is not something we can just let go."

"I'd not expect it," Kevin said. "I'll see to every demand Levi provided to prove I'm worthy. Please accept my apologies for my disrespectfulness thus far."

"Apology accepted," Anna said with a small smile. "But you've still got a ways to go before we forgive you."

"I understand," Kevin answered.

All things considered, Kevin was relieved. Even if he wasn't happy with how it happened, Kevin was happy to have their relationship out in the open. Now he could work towards proving he was good enough. He convinced Anna to let him bring his family over for dinner so they could get to know one another without any pretense. Anna agreed and that night, Kevin returned to the house with his family. Renesmee did wonders for Kevin in clearing the air. After profuse apologies for not saying anything, Renesmee pleaded on Kevin's behalf that he really meant no disrespect and was confident he'd make everything up to them. Levi only said Kevin knew what he had to do. Later in the evening, Renesmee told Kevin that night they would be leaving, so Renesmee made sure to enjoy the last day with the Dymeks.

The next day, Kevin said his goodbyes to everyone and saw them off at the train station. His siblings would be returning right to America while Jacob and Renesmee would be going to England and Scotland for just a few days. After seeing his parents off, he returned to the shop and offered to help Anna at the shop. He remained for dinner and, with their permission, Kevin and Amber sat together in the living room while Anna cleaned the dishes and Levi remained in the kitchen with her, giving them some privacy while ensuring they were supervised.

"Do you think daddy will forgive you?" Amber asked.

"If I meet his requests, I'm sure he will," Kevin said. "I'll make everything right, Amber. I promise I will."

"This is all my fault," Amber lamented. "I should have been more careful."

"None of this is your fault, Amber. It's mine. I should have spoken to Levi sooner. But now that they know, I can start proving I'm worthy of you."

"How long will that take?" Amber asked.

"I won't let it take too long," Kevin smiled. "Since Levi did deny me your hand once, I'll have to give you another bracelet. I'll get to work on it and send it to you as soon as it's done."

"No," Amber said. "This time you give it to me in person."

"Alright," Kevin smiled. "I'll give it to you in person."

Any desperate desire for kisses had to be put to the side for proper courting procedure. So Kevin and Amber sat on the couch together with Anna and Levi watching until they determined they needed to end the night. Kevin remained longer than he normally would, but when he finally had to leave, Amber and Anna saw Kevin off. Now that their relationship was no longer a secret, Kevin acted in one small form of boldness and kissed Amber's hand. He hugged them both goodbye, dared to plant one kiss on Amber's cheek, and he said goodbye to Amber swearing he would come back soon. Kevin managed to return to Connecticut by Monday and arrived at the office in time for the start of the day. He said hello to Olga before going to Alphonse's room where Dianne was sitting in the corner while Anastasia played on the flour.

"Uncle Kevin!" the little girl cheered and ran up to Kevin to hug him. Kevin kneeled down and lifted Anastasia up into his arms.

"Morning, Miss Heidelberg. How have things been while I was away?"

"I helped Olga put papers in the drawer!" Anastasia announced proudly.

"You did? I'm sure Olga appreciated the assistance," Kevin smiled. "Dianne, I don't suppose you'd mind giving me and Alphonse a moment would you?"

"Take her to the lunch room," Alphonse said. "I think there were pastries in there." Dianne nodded and took Anastasia in her arms and left the office closing the door behind her. "So how was your trip? Better than last year I hope?"

"It depends on how you look at it," Kevin said. "Amber's parents found out we've been in a relationship, but I've convinced him to give me a chance to make this whole thing up to him. He gave me a list of conditions he wanted met before he would allow Amber and I to get married. One of those conditions involves you."

"Me? Why me?"

"The business," Kevin said. "I've been saving my half for quite some time, but I can win the remainder if need be."

"So you're wanting to do this now?" Alphonse said.

"Why not? We have a reputation built thanks to clients we've had here. I'm sure we could convince them to throw our names and law firm in their friends' directions. I know you've had your half ready since we came up with the idea. You've just been waiting for me. Well, I can make sure to have the remainder of my half by the end of the month. We'll start looking into properties that we can buy and set up shop, we'll came up with a perfectly boring legal name and we'll start defending businessmen in Seattle. It's a growing city with lots of potential."

"Okay, so you work up your half and we start looking at properties. So when do we open the business by?"

"As soon as possible," Kevin answered confidently. "My mother's family can help us with finding a good location and they can even make it look the way we want and they won't charge us a penny for it."

Alphonse appeared a little nervous, but sat up a bit straighter. "So you want to jump into starting our business because you're trying to impress your fiancé's father?"

"If not now, then when did you want to start our business? We've been talking about it for years. I thought you were ready when I was."

"I am," Alphonse chuckled. "I'll rely on you to raise what's left of your half. Then I'll trust you to see what property we can buy out. I don't suppose your family could also help me locate a place to live? Ana will be sore with this as it is. More so if we don't have a nice house ready."

"You let me worry about that," Kevin said. "If need be, I can make the arrangements and send for you once everything's taken care of. So what do you say, Alphonse? Let's just take the plunge. Let's just do it."

"Alright," Alphonse stood from the desk and reached out his hand. Kevin accepted and they shook on it. "By this time next year, you and I will have our own business."

"Oh, it'll be much sooner than that," Kevin said confidently.

Having shaken on it, Kevin wasted no time and got to work right away. He made plans to go to the horse tracks to win the remainder of his half. Alphonse and Miss Anastasia were invited to join him of course. He also placed a call to his family, still in Forks while Renesmee and Jacob were away, and requested his Grandpa Edward to do him the favor of looking into properties in Seattle where he and Alphonse could start their business, making a point to advise all additional requirements Levi had mandated. Edward told him he would get to work on that and expected Kevin to be home for his sister's wedding, once the date was determined, so they could review the plans in detail. Once they had returned from their trip, Scarlet proudly showed off the helmet the nice guard at Versailles let her have and Emmett made a mount for her to hang it on so she could admire it. Jae returned to work right away and found Hailey alone at the shop.

"How was everything while I was gone?" Jae asked.

"The shop is still standing," Hailey joked. "You don't plan to be away this long again do you?"

"No, sir," Jae chuckled.

"So we all heard Natalie said yes," Hailey smiled. "Not that anyone doubted she would."

"Yeah, she did," Jae smiled. "Her parents decided to extend their trip for a little longer. They wanted to visit England and Scotland. But once they're back, Natalie and I will have our Moon Ceremony and we'll be married before the end of the year."

"Well, congratulations, kid," Hailey smiled. "I know you two will be very happy together." Moments later, a woman walked into the shop and the moment she saw Jae, she seemed to almost be in tears.

"Oh, Jae Dauer, you devil you! Don't think we haven't heard," she said and went right up to Jae and hugged him.

"Morning, Mrs. Gates," Jae smiled.

"So when's the wedding?" Mrs. Gates asked right away. "Surely you're inviting all of us? Oh, I need to tell Debby! She's been so excited-" Hailey cleared his throat. "Oh, never mind," she said, realizing something and clearing her own throat. "Anyway, we're all so delighted for you. Mr. Dauer and Mr. Pence have told us all about that little bracelet you made her. I can't wait to see it! Mr. Pence said you crafted jewelry that would make Hephaestus proud!"

"Well, thank you for saying, Mrs. Gates," Jae smiled.

"So where is it? Perhaps we could have it here! Oh, Debby would be delighted to have a wedding at the inn! You know how she loves parties."

"The ceremony and celebration would be at the beach," Jae said. "It requires a bonfire and I don't want to risk burning down the Inn."

"I suppose you're right," Mrs. Gates said. "Well, no matter. Don't be surprised if you have a swarm of customers just to congratulate you, Jae."

"That's very kind of you," Jae smiled.

Mrs. Gates did eventually purchase what she had come in the shop for and, as she predicted, swarms of people came to the shop, upon Mrs. Gates' word of course, to offer Jae their congratulations. The Mayor's wife arrived too with her little boy and a small gift she'd had ready for weeks. By the end of the day, Debra stopped by with her grandson assisting her and suggested that perhaps Natalie might come to the inn the next night for a congratulatory dinner which Jae graciously accepted. By the time Jae was closing the shop, he couldn't believe the day he'd had.

"I never realized anyone would be so happy about me and Natalie getting married."

"You have the good people of Forks by the heartstrings," Hailey said. "Hell, I think you could have made President Andrew Jackson like you."

"I'd prefer to not try my luck with that one," Jae joked. "Would they mind if I invited my parents and siblings?"

"You know Debby. The more the merrier," Hailey said. "Just have them all dress nice and she'll be tickled pink."

"I'll see what I can do," Jae chuckled.

When Jae returned home, he told everyone about his day and how the Innkeeper was apparently having a celebratory dinner for him and Natalie. Rosalie and Alice immediately determined that was a wonderful idea and got to work right away finding things for his family to wear. Emmett and Jasper got to work on going to the Makka tribe to retrieve Rae, Toroeh and Wren so they could attend. It would also be the first that Rae heard about Jae's proposal. Seeing as Sharisa knew before her, it would surely be met with heated discontentment of not being told sooner, though that would be easily forgiven. The following morning, Jae returned to work like normal, but he noticed the town seemed to have a buzz. They would all smile at him but seem to avoid him at any cost, especially when making their way to the inn.

Emmett and Jasper returned later in the morning with Rae, Toroeh and Wren in tow. Renesmee and Jacob even returned that day which worked out perfectly. Alice insisted she wanted to take a picture with Jae and Natalie's whole family as one of the wedding presents the Cullens would be presenting to the young couple. As promised, when it was time to close the shop, Natalie and the others all met at the shop dressed up nice to go to the inn.

"I knew everyone loved you," Natalie smiled, "but I never thought they'd arrange a party for us."

"Neither did I," Jae smiled and Rae walked up to him with her arms crossed. "Rae? I didn't realize you were coming. I haven't seen you since our trip."

"And I can't believe you would tell Sharisa you're proposing and not me."

"Wait, you knew?" Natalie looked at Sharisa.

"Everyone but your half of the pack knew," Sharisa giggled.

"And me apparently!" Rae said. "Why wouldn't you tell me?"

"I just didn't get a chance to. I was working on her bracelet all year."

"If your intent was to make us all look bad, you've done one hell of a job of it," Toroeh joked.

"And when did you learn English?" Jae smiled.

"Rae taught me," Toroeh said.

"Well, for the record, it wasn't to make you all look bad; it was to make her something unique and one of a kind."

"Well aren't you special, Natalie?" Sharisa teased.

"Okay, stop bickering," Embry Sr. said. "Let's get to the inn."

"Mm," Jacob grumbled. Before arriving, he'd had his two scents with Renesmee regarding how they'd been treated by Mrs. Innkeeper (as he'd called her) last they were there and he wasn't too keen on the memory. "I don't see why they couldn't come to us if they want to celebrate our daughter's engagement so bad."

"Jacob, relax," Renesmee said. "Regardless of where, it'll be a wonderful time." She placed her hand on Jacob's shoulder, It was 25 years ago. It's not worth being upset about anymore. Let's just have a good time.

Jacob nodded reluctantly and they all finally left for the inn where Debra and other ladies in town had arranged for there to be more food than thought possible and cheers erupted when they finally arrived. Everyone swarmed to see Natalie's bracelet having heard so much about it from Hailey and Mr. Pence. They all swooned and praised Jae's craftsmanship, even calling it insurmountable. Sadly, just about everything was laden with dairy, so Natalie and Nathan spent the night eating bread. Jae was happy to join her. To their surprise, a number of guests brought gifts for Jae and Natalie ranging from a coffee grinder to some pots. One woman even handed over a pair of blue stone earrings for Natalie to wear, telling her to consider it something blue, old and burrowed. Needing something new, Mrs. Pence insisted to her husband that he permit Natalie to wear a new piece at the shop. A necklace perhaps. Mr. Pence agreed he'd pick something nice. During the party, Alice eagerly presented something she and the others had been keeping quiet for some time. It was a picture they had taken of a little house that they'd started building for the pair. It was closer to town nestled in the woods and they would start a path from the house to town and to the village by the following day also promising to show it to Natalie and Jae the next morning.

By the end of the night, Natalie couldn't believe all the gifts and well wishes. Had the seamstress had her way, she'd had made Natalie a dress. However tradition required the rabbit dress and it would stay that way. Jae promised everyone that the moment he and Natalie knew when they were getting married, everyone would be welcome to come. Jacob agreed it would be fine. Then the next day finally came. By the time Jae arrived in the morning to the house, Natalie was sitting in the medical room with Renesmee and Jacob waiting for him.

"So are you ready, Jae?" Renesmee smiled.

"I've been ready," Jae smiled and sat down beside Natalie. "I never got to ask how London and Glasgow were."

"Cloudy and lots of castles," Renesmee smiled. "At least in Scotland. We got to see a little of Buckingham Palace, but it was the castles in Scotland that were breathtaking. I dare say Jacob liked Scotland. He'd never admit it of course."

"Sounds like daddy," Natalie giggled at Jacob's shrug of indifference. After a moment, Renesmee had a small elevated pan positioned in the middle of the room with wood tucked in. She got the fire lit and prepared the required herbs while the fire came to life.

"Okay," Renesmee said more so to herself. "Jacob, you confirm to give our daughter to Jae?"

"I do," Jacob answered.

"Alright," she said and then looked at Jae and Natalie, "Come over." Jae and Natalie walked to the fire waiting for Renesmee's instruction. "Once I toss in the herbs, be prepared to hold your hand over the fire. Then hold it there as long as you can before removing them and I'll do the rest."

Jae and Natalie waited for Renesmee to throw the herbs into the fire and, as instructed, they brought their hands over the fire and held it there as long as they could before removing them. Renesmee completed the ceremony by breathing in the fumes and mumbling a chant Sokajili had taught her. She did so until the image of a full moon appeared in her mind. She released a breath and finally looked at them with a smile. Jacob smiled too. In truth, he never tired of watching her work.

"For greatest happiness and prosperity, you must marry under the full moon," Renesmee smiled and glanced at Jacob. "We'd better work fast. That's in two days."

"That long?" Jae joked.

"I'm afraid so," Renesmee smiled. "We'll spread word of the ceremony so everyone can get ready. Make sure to speak with Hailey and let him know you need three days."

"I'll do that today," Jae said. "And thank you, Jacob."

"Just remember to be a good husband to my daughter," Jacob smiled. "Or I may have to give you a ride on the hanging tree."

"Daddy!" Natalie said sternly, but they were all laughing a little.

"I'll make sure of it, sir," Jae answered confidently.

Alice insisted, shortly after the ceremony and before Jae had a chance to leave for work, on taking Jae and Natalie on a tour of their new house. As promised, it was tucked into the woods but was still very close to the tribe. It was actually a stone throw away from Embry Jr.'s house. Apparently Travis had insisted on helping build it, having an idea of what Natalie would like. When they arrived, Natalie made a note to herself to run next door and thank him when she could. It was adorable. The outside was rather simple with a door and windows painted a deep wine red color with wood left its natural color. When they stepped inside, the entryway was open and went immediately into the living room to the right with a staircase to the left and a closet beside that staircase for coats. A wall separated the kitchen and living room, but it was a half wall, making it possible to look into the living room from the large kitchen. While the number of children to come was still up for debate, Alice led them upstairs to show five bedrooms, one being the master that Jae and Natalie would share. Then four other slightly smaller rooms for the children. Alice bragged on Travis's behalf how he'd carved all the cabinets and kitchen table and had helped install the wood floors. "Travis is quite the handyman," Alice praised.

"Alice, it's beautiful," Natalie smiled.

"It gives us plenty of room for our twelve kids," Jae smiled.

"Our two children, you mean," Natalie said.

"We'll talk about it later," Jae joked and kissed Natalie's cheek, finally having to get to work. Thankfully, Travis was still at Embry's house getting ready to visit the Hou tribe but he smiled when Natalie let herself in.

"So how did you like the house?" Travis asked.

"Well," she smiled, "the cabinets are gorgeous. The kitchen table looks sturdy as a rock and the floors are perfect."

Travis chuckled, "I'm glad you liked them. What about the rest of the house?"

"It complimented all your hard work very well," Natalie praised and ran over to give Travis a hug. "Thank you. You really did make it special."

"No need to thank me. I wanted to," Travis said. "So did you and Jae have your moon ceremony yet?"

"We did," Natalie grinned. "And we're getting married in 2 days under the full moon."

"Well, that's downright romantic," Travis chuckled. "Is the princess happy to finally marry her pauper?" he teased.

"Happier than if I'd married a king," Natalie smiled. "Now we just need to find your prince charming."

"I'm flattered, Natalie, but I wouldn't hold my breath," Travis smiled.

"What about Harold? That's his name isn't it?"

"You mean the closeted pastor's son I was screwing around with?" Travis asked and Natalie nodded. "He got married over the summer."

"Oh," Natalie said, a little put out. "I'm sorry."

"Don't be," Travis smiled. "Hell, I'm actually a little glad it's over. One time, he said to me that sex with me didn't count because I was about 2 fifths a person."

"He's an asshole," Natalie mumbled.

"Yeah, but he was a really good fuck," Travis said and shrugged. "Oh well. He's whatsername's problem now."

"Well, Travis, that simply won't do. You deserve to meet a nice man just as much as I do."

"I appreciate the sentiment, but you'll find the pool of men willing to admit they're homosexual let alone willing to commit to it is a shallow on indeed."

"It certainly is with that attitude," Natalie said. "Do you suppose one day you'll imprint?"

"On a man? Not a chance," Travis said.

"You never know," Natalie said. "We don't understand why it happens. There are probably all sorts of factors to it."

"Perhaps, but if I were to bet money on anything, the ability to produce children is one of those factors."

"We don't know that for sure," Natalie said.

"Well, if I imprint on a man, you'll be the first to know," Travis smiled. "In the meantime, I'll enjoy my liaisons when I can get them."

"Oh, look at you with your fancy words," Natalie praised.

"That's what Kyle referred to them as," Travis said with a chuckle.

"Well, for the record, he has his own fair share of those," Natalie said.

"I know," Travis smiled. "Now enough about me, Natalie. You and Jae are finally getting married. You should be barely able to contain your excitement."

"You should have seen me when Jae proposed," Natalie smiled. "I've had a chance to grow used to being the future Mrs. Dauer. Still very exciting, though."

"So you'll be Natalie Dauer from now on?" Travis said.

"Natalie Isabella Dauer," Natalie said proudly. "I think that has a lovely ring to it. Don't you?"

"Lovely indeed," Travis said. "Now stop swooning, Natalie. You're starting to drool."

"You know what, if you were marrying Jae Dauer, you would be too," Natalie smiled.

"I'm not and I already do," Travis chuckled. "So does he still want 12 kids?"

"I'm sure he'd want more, but I'm putting my foot down. We'll start with two and maybe have a few more, but not 12. I don't know how Auntie Caevia does it, but I'm not so strong as she is."

"That is true," Travis said. "That woman is the truest embodiment of a super mom."

"She really is," Natalie said. "I hope when we do have kids, I'll be half the mother mine and Caevia are."

"You'll be that and more," Travis smiled.

"Oh, thank you," Natalie smiled and hugged Travis tightly. Back in town, Jae arrived at work and within minutes patrons were coming in demanding to know any update possible. He let them know he and Natalie were marrying in two days and the whole town knew by the end of an hour.

"I'll permit that 3 day alone time thing," Hailey said when he had the chance. "But your ass is back at work 8 a.m. sharp when that's over."

Jae chuckled, "Yes Uncle Dauer."

"So are you excited?"

"I can barely contain myself," Jae answered honestly. "I feel like I've been waiting my whole life for this. Now that it's happening in 2 days, I'm almost scared I might be dreaming."

"Don't worry, kid. You're not dreaming," a voice came from the door. Mr. Pence walked in with a few small boxes in hand.

"Morning, Mr. Pence. And thank you for the reassurance."

"I have more than reassurance, my dear boy," Mr. Pence answered and put the boxes on the counter. He opened the bigger of the two boxes and revealed a little gold necklace. It was very small and unadorned but tasteful. "This should cover Natalie's 'something new'." Mr. Pence turned his attention to the other box. "Now these are a gift." He opened the boxes to show two gold bands. One for him and one for Natalie. "I did some snooping around and was able to confirm ring sizes thanks to Natalie's family. Consider these wedding bands my gift and good wishes. Every good marriage needs to start with matching rings."

Jae was a little stunned, "Thank you," was all he could manage.

"And that's real gold, too."

"Is it?" Jae asked, stunned all the more.

"Yes, sir. 14 carat. Go ahead and try yours on." Jae went ahead and took out the bigger of the two rings and slipped it onto his left ring finger. "Excellent. Fits perfectly."

"Thank you, sir," Jae smiled. "I don't know if you've heard, but the wedding's in two days under the full moon. You're welcome to come."

"Oh, I know. I've heard of nothing else since you got into town. My wife's already trying to decide what we're going to wear. I hope that girl's as good a kid as you are, Jae, because you're about to sign over your life."

Jae laughed, "I wouldn't have it any other way, Mr. Pence."

"Good for you," Mr. Pence said. "And congratulations again. So how many children will there be?"

"Depends on who you ask," Jae smiled. "Natalie said two, I say twelve."

"Oh my," Mr. Pence said. "That's quite the difference. However will you two come to agreement?"

"I'm sure we'll figure something out," Jae smiled.

"You let us know when the first one comes along," Mr. Pence chuckled. "If there's one thing my wife loves more than weddings, it's babies. Well, I'm off. If Natalie's ring doesn't fit, just bring it back and I'll fix it."

"Thank you, sir," Jae smiled appreciatively. He glanced down at the ring on his finger again and kept smiling.

"Makes it more real doesn't it?" Hailey said.

"It does," Jae said and finally removed the ring to put it back in the box. "I'll go back during lunch and have Natalie try hers on. If we could exchange these during the ceremony, that would be great."

"Honestly, that little thing could fit in a purse, so I'm sure it'll fit," Hailey said.

"Oh come on, she's filled out a little," Jae said.

"Because you make her eat," Hailey said. "In all seriousness, Jae, if you and Natalie what any kids let alone that many, she's going to have to start eating properly."

"She eats 'properly' she just doesn't eat enough," Jae defended.

"Try to fatten her up a little. Won't kill her to eat a donut. That's all I'm saying," Hailey said.

"Yes, Uncle Hailey," Jae smiled.

By the time it was lunch, Jae ran back to the tribe and found Natalie with his sisters helping them with flower garlands for the wedding. He stepped up from behind her and kneeled down, planting a kiss on her cheek while he was at it, and showed her the necklace and rings from Mr. Pence. Natalie tried hers on and it fit a little loosely, so Jae kept his ring at home for safe keeping and brought Natalie's to Mr. Pence requesting the next size down.

"Next size down?" Mr. Pence said. "Alright, I'll get that down a notch. I'll have it fixed by tomorrow morning."

"Thanks, Mr. Pence," Jae answered. As promised, by the next morning, the ring was done. Just to make sure, Jae brought Natalie with him to the shop so she could try it on and this time it fit perfectly.

Kevin and Kyle arrived home that day for the wedding, though it was difficult on such short notice. They would sadly need to leave almost immediately after, but neither of them would miss the wedding for the world. The moment they arrived, Alice insisted the whole family gather into a large group on the beach for a picture. She demonstrated to a member of the tribe how to operate the camera and then joined the large group for the picture. After that, everyone needed to get right back to work on the wedding. People were making food for everyone while some were getting the pyre ready and the decorations set up. Hailey and Leah arrived hours in advance to help out. Meanwhile, Edward took a moment to pull Kevin aside for some good news.

"As you asked, I've discovered a few properties you and Alphonse might like. They're all in the city and within 30 minutes of very good neighborhoods. Nice homes, good schools, good tutors. And you'll be pleased to find that while a Synagogue isn't there right now, one is currently under construction near where all these properties are."

"Do you know when it'll be complete?" Kevin asked.

"Within another year and a half," Edward said. "It's being set up by a Polish family that came here a few years ago."

"Okay, good," Kevin said. "That'll please Levi. What about actual homes on the market?"

"Well, for the Baronet, I found one house that one might call obnoxious, but it's something the Princess would like I'm sure. Ten bedrooms, a massive kitchen, servants' quarters, a fountain at the entrance with a flower garden and a French cottage look."

"Yeah," Kevin said. "That sounds like something Ana would like."

"I've spoken to the realtor already and made a point to explain the house is to remain unsold until further notice seeing as a Baronet and Princess are interested. He'll hike up the price a little, but we can omit that part from Alphonse."

"I'm sure he won't care," Kevin said.

"As to a house for you," Edward continued. "I found a house in the suburbs. It's a bit further from that house I told you about for Alphonse, but it's a nice home. Four bedrooms, a nice kitchen, dining room, a big back yard, the works. It even has a white picket fence. I've already put a down payment in for you."

"You bought it?"

"Consider it an early wedding present," Edward smiled. "I'll sign it over to you officially once you've moved back."

"I'll pay you back," Kevin said.

"No you won't," Edward smiled. "It's a gift. You don't pay back gifts. The business, however, you will be paying back for. Just let me know which one you want and I'll put the money forward and you and Alphonse can pay me back."

"Thank you, grandpa. I really appreciate you helping me with this."

"No need," Edward smiled. "You're doing all the work. I'm just acting as an assistant until you can come back from Connecticut. Have you spoken with your boss?"

"Not yet," Kevin said. "We'll talk to him once we've paid for the building."

"And what shall the name of this new Law Firm be?" Edward asked.

"Either Black and Heidelberg or Heidelberg and Black. Either's fine with me, but we'll probably just flip a coin to determine the order."

"And you both have a possible client base already?"

"Thanks to some very happy customers back East," Kevin smiled confidently. "One of my clients has lovingly nicknamed me the Iron Thumb."

"So you've earned Your Highness, The Pitcher and Iron Thumb," Edward chuckled. "I wonder what will be next."

"Husband and father if I have my way," Kevin said.

"Ah, yes," Edward smiled. "That would be next. I have pictures of everything I mentioned, so I'll bring those to you tonight and you can show them to Alphonse."

"Thank you, grandpa," Kevin said.

"You're welcome, Kevin. You've done us all really proud. I hope you know that."

"Thank you. That really means a lot."

"One day, when Jacob steps down, you'll be a good chief. Probably the best these people have ever seen."

"That's a bold claim, grandpa," Kevin said. "Grandpa William's been a good chief and he hasn't passed the crown yet. So dad might do better than I ever could."

"I doubt that very seriously," Edward said condescendingly. "Jacob has the temper of a bull. Thank God my daughter is at his side to keep him from ruining the china."

"Grandpa," Kevin said.

"I'm only teasing," Edward said. "But in all seriousness, Kevin, you're truly the best of both worlds and that'll do these people good when the time comes. Who knows when that will be, but I know you'll be a good leader."

"Thank you," Kevin said. "I'm not worried about that now. One thing at a time."

"You're right," Edward said.

By the time it was nearing nightfall, nearly the whole town came to the tribe for the wedding. Jae made sure to welcome everyone, still shocked at the number of people that came. Back at the house, Natalie was in her room with Renesmee, Caevia, her grandmothers, and all her aunts helping her into the rabbit fur and getting her the any jewelry she was lent. After the last stitch was finished, Renesmee hugged Natalie, still having a hard time believing what was about to happen.

"Can you believe how many people showed up?" Natalie said.

"It's a sign you'll have a happy marriage," Alice said as she straightened out the gold necklace Mr. Pence had provided. Natalie smiled and a small tear fell.

"I'm so excited," Natalie said. "It's like a dream."

"It's no dream, Natalie," Renesmee smiled. "The last of my pups are leaving the den." When Renesmee said that, she got a little teary eyed.

"Don't cry, mom," Natalie giggled. "You'll still see me every day."

"That's not the point," Renesmee smiled and rubbed her eyes. "I remember when you were just a little girl. I remember when all four of you were little. I remember how I used to yell at you for rolling down the hill so close to the rocks. I remember how you and all your brothers used to sleep next to each other like hamsters. I remember when you would keep me up at night reading because you wanted to know how the story ended. I remember when you and your brother were baptized. You were both so precious."

"She did age slower," Bella teased and brushed Natalie's cheek. "I just wish we could have had this with you, Renesmee."

"Me?" Renesmee asked.

"Yes," Bella said. "You married Jacob when we didn't know where you were and were worried sick about you. We didn't get to enjoy your wedding with you."

"I know," Renesmee lamented. "But at least we can all enjoy Natalie's wedding."

"Do you have any advice for me?" Natalie asked.

"Marriage is like a body. The man may be the head, but his wife is the neck," Rosalie said.

"Don't be afraid to disagree with each other, but learn to know when to step away from an argument," Renesmee added. "And always make sure to listen to one another."

"Always remember to be his support," Sara added, "and he will do the same for you. And remember to be the voice of reason."

"No matter what happens in a day, make sure to tell each other 'I love you'," Alice added. "You wouldn't believe how often that will resolve any disagreement."

"Remember you're partners," Esme said.

Natalie smiled nervously at the flow of advice, but it was definitely needed. After it was finally nightfall and the moon was shining bright and full, Renesmee and the others led Natalie outside to the bonfire where Jae already was. They didn't get to wear the wolf headdresses, but she still felt like a princess. She took her seat beside Jae, closer than perhaps was typical, and Jae took her hand in his. They didn't say anything, but they smiled lovingly at one another and Natalie couldn't help but release a small tear that Jae brushed aside with his thumb.

As was normal for the ceremony, Renesmee performed the rights and the fertility dance was performed leaving those in attendance not used to such displays rather uncomfortable. Along with usual tradition, Jae and Natalie exchanged the gold bands Mr. Pence had given them as a gift and when they were officially married, everyone was instructed to start dancing around the fire for good luck to the couple. It was more people than they were used to. Some of the dancing was even a little awkward because of it with how close the pyre was to the shore. But the whole night, Jae and Natalie just focused on one another. Claire and Bella played violin music to include something their unexpected guests would be more accustomed to and thanks to the efforts for the tribe and townspeople, there was easily enough food to feed the whole village for weeks. Mrs. Pierce and her husband danced with their young son several times around and Jae's younger siblings played with the boy since he was in their age range. Most turned their attention to the food while intermittently going back to the fire to dance together.

"This is certainly one hell of a party," Embry chuckled, talking to Kevin and Aidie. "People weren't so nice to me when I worked at the General Store."

"Are you saying you want this many people around when you get married?" Aidie raised a brow at her brother.

"Sweet Christ no," Embry said. "I'll bet you anything Jae doesn't even know who most of these people are. I certainly don't."

"You never know," Kevin smiled. "You know how sociable Jae is."

"Is yours and Amber's wedding going to be this big?" Embry asked.

"It depends," Kevin said. "The Jewish ceremony might be, but the one here will be smaller. That'll be the tribe only, I think. The other guests can attend a Jewish wedding and enjoy the reception while we all come here for the real fun."

Embry laughed, "Good answer. So what goes into a Jewish wedding?"

"I need to look into it a little more, but I know I need to sign something called a Ketubah, I need to break some glass after we're married, I know we need to drink wine. Unfortunately, I haven't looked into it as much as I should. At the moment I'm more concerned with finding the Synagogue it would happen at."

"Here in Washington I hope," Aidie said.

"Yes, here in Washington," Kevin nodded. "Just because they make them, I might ask if we could have a Unity Candle. I know it's a Catholic thing, but I think it would be appropriate."

"I don't see why," Embry chuckled. "You're really only Catholic in name unless something happens."

"Still, I think it would be nice," Kevin said. "She and I could light it once a year for our anniversary."

"That's romantic," Aidie said. "I have to say I'm awfully jealous of you, Kevin. It must be nice to be so in love."

"It is so long as they love you back," Kevin said. "Have you been seeing anyone?"

"Not really," Aidie said. "At most, I'll make the trip up to Port Angeles to visit Bernadette, but they're transferring again soon, so I don't know how long that'll last."

"Maybe you should just go up there because you want to," Embry said. "Hell, we'll go one of these days."

"Maybe," Aidie said. "So how long are you staying?"

"Not very long," Kevin said. "Kyle and I need to get back, so we'll be leaving tonight."

"That's a shame. At least we'll see you for Christmas."

"Possibly," Kevin said. "I'm working on a new bracelet for Amber and I thought I might surprise her and join them for Hanukkah."

"Will your boss give you the free time to?" Embry asked.

"I don't imagine I'll need to worry about that before long," Kevin said confidently. That confidence increased when Edward walked up behind them and tapped Kevin on the shoulder with the papers he'd mentioned earlier. They stepped aside so Kevin could take a look at everything.

"If you want my suggestion," Edward said and pointed to one building. "I would recommend this location for the business. It's a prime location within the heart of the city. An excellent place to house a law firm."

"I'll recommend it when I show this to Alphonse," Kevin smiled.

"Now, I mentioned the houses for Alphonse and his family. As to your house," Edward said and moved a few things around until Kevin was looking at the picture of the house Edward had described earlier. Picket fence and all. "That's the place I knew you would like."

"The one you already put a down payment on?" Kevin chuckled.

"The very same," Edward smiled. "Once I give the go-ahead, Alice and Esme will have that place furnished to rival a king's palace."

"They don't need to go that far," Kevin chuckled. "Although, do you suppose they can arrange for there to be a candle room like at their home?"

"We're already making the arrangements," Edward said.

"Thank you again for all this Grandpa. I don't know how I'll ever repay you."

"Give me plenty of great grandchildren and we'll call ourselves even," Edward joked and they shared a laugh.

Unfortunately, as mentioned, Kevin and Kyle left around midnight, saying goodbye to everyone before returning to Connecticut. Thankfully, no one from town seemed to think a thing of them, but then given how little they ever saw of Kevin and Kyle anymore and how much they'd changed over the years, they barely recognized them. Jae and Natalie retreated from the party around the time the townspeople were returning home from a desperate need to sleep. They wandered off together to their little house in the woods just a quick walk from the clearing of the tribe. When they reached the door, Jae opened the door and then surprised Natalie by lifting her into his arms and carrying her in, making her giggle the whole time. Once they were alone in the house and Jae had closed the door behind them, Jae walked up to Natalie and took her in his arms.

"It's so nice to finally be alone," Jae said to Natalie and kissed the top of her head. Natalie brought her arms up so she had her arms wrapped around his neck.

"How does it feel to be a married man?" Natalie asked with a sweet smile.

"Best I've ever felt," Jae smiled.

"Likewise," Natalie smiled and lifted her head to kiss him. Jae deepened the kiss and pressed his tongue against her lips so they could taste each other. They rocked back and forth while they kissed and Jae did his best to pull the dress up over her head. They parted so he could toss the dress to the side and returned to hugging and kissing one another. Jae reached his hands down, kneeled just slightly, and wrapped her legs around his waist so he could move them somewhere. But rather than bothering to go somewhere else, Jae bent down until he had Natalie placed on the floor with him on top of her. "Shouldn't we get upstairs?" Natalie asked after pulling her lips away a moment while Jae kissed her jaw.

"We've got three days," Jae said. "We'll get up there eventually."

Natalie started giggling and kissed Jae's cheek while he started down her neck working his way to her chest to suckle her breasts. Natalie sighed and held her head back enjoying every kiss and nip and lick of his tongue. All the while, Natalie pushed off Jae's clothes until they were both naked in each other's arms. No matter how many times the two of them were together, Jae never failed to make her feel special and beautiful. Their wedding night was no different. Eventually they started kissing one another again until Jae finally slipped inside her and thrust with vigor while she clutched onto him like a lifeline, all the while moaning his name as he brought her closer to her orgasm. When she did, she held on tighter and moaned into his shoulder. Jae soon reached his own peak of pleasure and when they'd both reached their highest point, they cuddled together on the floor never even bothering going upstairs until the following morning.

When Kevin and Kyle arrived back east, it was approaching the end of the day. Kyle returned to the house to sleep for school the following day while Kevin made an impromptu visit to Alphonse's house. When he arrived, Dianna answered as always and warmly welcomed him in. Kevin waited at the door of the fancy house while Dianna went to retrieve Ana and Alphonse to greet him. Ana was the first to come to the door dressed in a nightgown and a robe.

"Kevin," Ana smiled as she approached. "This is a pleasant surprise." When she was close, she and Kevin kissed one another's cheeks.

"I'm sorry to disrupt you so late, but I had some good news I wanted to share with Alphonse."

"Good news?" Ana smiled. "I'm always happy to hear good news. What news might that be?"

"It has to do with us opening our own law firm," Kevin smiled charmingly.

"Oh?" Ana grinned eagerly. "That certainly is good news." Just then, Alphonse finally came to the entrance and smiled at Kevin.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, Kevin. Let's go to my office and we'll talk." Kevin nodded, then smiled at Ana, before following Alphonse to his office further into the house. He asked Dianna to bring them some coffee just as they entered the office and Alphonse closed the door behind him. "I overheard you tell Ana you had good news about our impending law firm?"

"As a matter of fact, yes," Kevin said and placed all the papers on Alphonse's desk. "My grandpa was kind enough to find us some prime locations and was even kind enough to find a nice home for you and Ana to move in." Kevin showed Alphonse that picture and he almost chuckled sarcastically. "Ana will certainly approve of this monstrosity. Tell me about the business locations and then I'll look at that house."

"Well, as far as locations, he found these three," Kevin said, making the three locations, their pictures and their information in view in a row on the desk. "They're all within the price range we'd agreed on, but I think this one will be best." Kevin pointed at the one within the city that Edward had mentioned. "It's right in the hustle and bustle of Seattle, so we'll be close to the clients we've already won and have plenty of opportunity for more."

"Doesn't hurt that it's a nice office building to boot," Alphonse smiled. "When do they need the offer by?"

"We can call them tomorrow. Just remember the two hour time difference. We'll let them know we're interested and we'll make arrangements to pay them and sign the lease. As for that house I showed you, my grandpa was kind enough to advise the realtor that this is being held for a Baronet, so it'll be ready for you once we get down there."

"How kind," Alphonse smiled. There was a knock on the door and Dianna came in with their coffee.

"Will that be all, milord?" Dianna asked.

"Is Anastasia in bed?"

"Yes, milord. She's been tucked in and is sound asleep."

"Good," Alphonse said. "That'll be all."

"Yes, milord," Dianna bowed her head and walked out of the office to leave them alone to business.

"Now, your brother has just one year left at University?"

"He's completing an internship right now," Kevin said. "He said that ends in winter and he can choose to remain there to practice or not. Obviously, he'll be coming back to Washington, but we can leave any time we want."

"Sounds fine by me," Alphonse said.

"My grandpa also said he'd help get the place furnished accordingly," Kevin said. "A little 'congratulations' gift from them for opening our own business."

"Your grandfather's generosity is certainly proving beneficial," Alphonse chuckled. "Will be expect to be a benefactor?"

"No, certainly not," Kevin said. "My mother's side of the family have their own business ventures."

"Good," Alphonse said. "I suspect my father will wish to be a benefactor of the business."

"He does realize that'll mean he has to actually contribute to the business right?" Kevin said. "He can't just stamp his name on it and milk us like a cash cow."

Alphonse chuckled, "I'll be sure to make that clear. Don't worry, Kevin. Aristocrats can be leeches, but sometimes that leech will throw money at you."

"Do your parents know we're planning to open a law firm?"

"Don't be ridiculous," Alphonse said, taking a sip of his coffee. "They won't know until everything's said and done, just like Ana. If I told them from the beginning, I assure you this business of ours would be opened in New York, your desire to be close to family be damned. This way you and I are in complete control of everything that happens."

"Perhaps we shouldn't allow your father to be a benefactor, then," Kevin said. "He may insist upon some changes we aren't willing to make."

"True," Alphonse said. "It'll be our money and our gain alone."

"That's fine by me," Kevin answered. "Now all that's left is to determine the name of our business."

"Well, Heidelberg and Black Associates at Law. Naturally," Alphonse said with a hint of humor.

"Not Black and Heidelberg?" Kevin chuckled. Alphonse smiled and pulled out a coin to flip.

"Heads, Heidelberg and Black, tales, Black and Heidelberg."

"Agreed," Kevin chuckled and waited as Alphonse flipped the coin and allowed it to land on the ground. Heads. "Heidelberg and Black Associates at Law it is," Kevin smiled.

"Pleasure doing business with you," Alphonse said. "We'll save the illegally obtained Champaign for when the business is actually open. My mother-in-law sent my mother and father more bottles than should be possible to exist. They won't miss one."

"An excellent idea," Kevin chuckled. "I'll call my grandfather tomorrow and we'll get to work on putting an offer on that building we like. Would you like me to have him put an offer on that house as well?"

"Yes, please," Alphonse said. "Ana may be less inclined to complain if she has a mansion to drool over."

"If you'll permit it, I can even request my family to decorate the house for you," Kevin said. "My Aunt Esme has a passion for decorating and if I let her know Ana's taste, I'm sure she'd design a place Ana would be thrilled to live in."

"Don't bother," Alphonse said. "Unless your Aunt is able to magically transport that house to Paris, Ana will complain regardless. I'll not have your Aunt waste all that effort on an ungrateful brat. Now, Anastasia's room on the other hand I'm happy to ask she decorate."

"She'll love that too," Kevin smiled.

"Good," Alphonse said. "If she's going to decorate for a princess, it may as well be Anastasia."

"So Princess Anastasia has been hiding in America all these years?" Kevin joked. "Who knew?"

"Just don't repeat it," Alphonse said. "How terribly embarrassing it would be for the Bolsheviks if the Princess were to have escaped through their fingers?"

"Would Anastasia be considered a princess?"

"No, she's an American citizen," Alphonse said. Then he lifted up his coffee cup. "To Heidelberg and Black Associates at Law."

"Prost," Kevin responded and Alphonse smiled as they drank their coffee.

Kevin left a short time later and returned home, immediately calling his family and telling Edward to proceed with what they'd all discussed. Edward confirmed he'd have everything handled promptly and all they would need to do is pay Edward back later. Alphonse was delighted to hear from Kevin the following day that Edward was handling everything. Later in the week, they collected the money they'd saved between them and Kevin asked Kyle to do him the favor of running to Washington to deliver the money to Edward directly. During which time, upon Jae and Natalie finally returning to society, Jae returned to work and was hit with a barrage of people asking him how he'd enjoyed his newlywed status and when he and Natalie planned to have children. He gave the same answer that they were working on it and every person that asked was told they'd be the first to know.

"You're not actually planning to have 12 little terrors are you?" Hailey asked nearing the end of the day when they were closing shop.

"Natalie isn't keen on the number, so I doubt it. She keeps saying 2 but I'd like more than that."

"Two seems to many as it is," Hailey said.

"Well, uncle, I actually like kids," Jae chuckled. "So I say two is a good start."

"Have you and Natalie discussed any names?"

"We have actually," Jae said. "She wants to name our first son after me. It'll just be J-A-Y instead of J-A-E. Jay Jacob as a matter of fact."

"And a girl?"

"That we're undecided. She likes Cynthia, but I'd rather name her after our moms. I think Caevia Renesmee's pretty. Her mother's name was a result of being named after Aunt Esme and her great grandma Renee, so we could combine Renesmee and Caevia."

"So that's where that came from," Hailey said. "I always wondered how they came up with a name like Renesmee."

"I was thinking Nesia or something," Jae said. "What do you think?"

"Honestly? I hate it," Hailey said and Jae chuckled.

"Fair enough," Jae answered. "I still like it, though. I've yet to sell Natalie on it."

"Smart young woman," Hailey chuckled. "I assume you two have talked about a few names seeing as you want to turn the poor thing into the lady in the shoe?"

"She'd love to name a child after a city. We both like Salem. I'd be willing to name a girl Elma or Aberdeen."

"I see normal names aren't good enough for you," Hailey teased. "Although I will say Elma is nice."

"I'll keep that in mind," Jae chuckled. "I'll see about selling Natalie on Nesia first. It'll grow on you. I promise."

"And what would be the poor girl's middle name?"

"That I'm not sure," Jae said. "Maybe Natalie."

"No, too many ns," Hailey said and then he had a realization and grumbled. "I can't believe I'm having this discussion with you."

"It's almost as though you love me like the son you never had," Jae teased.

"I've grown to find you to be a child that, for all intents and purposes, is a decent and perhaps slightly more tolerable than most children and I've therefore found myself to be more inclined to want to be around you."

Jae burst into laughter and rubbed his eye when they started watering. "I love you too, Uncle Hailey," he finally said when he caught his breath.

Aidetzi during this time continued to go visit Bernadette as often as she could. Her son had already grown so big and was fondest of climbing trees, so they often spent their time together sitting on the porch watching the boy play with the other Navy Brats. Bernadette, for the sake of ensuring as little trouble as possible, told all her friends on the base that Aidetzi only looked so different because her family was Italian and her last name was the result of an English father. It kept the less accepting of the residence off their backs, so Aidetzi was willing to tolerate it.

"I can't believe these dumb broads believe you," Aidetzi said to Bernadette once day after they'd given the explanation for the umpteenth time to a newer Navy wife on base.

"I would say thank the lucky stars," Bernadette said. "If they knew, I shudder to think how they'd treat poor David."

"And you of course," Aidetzi said with a hint of sarcasm.

"Oh, Aidie, please don't take it that way. You know I don't mean for it to be like that."

"I know," Aidie said. "It's not your fault; don't worry about it. I'm just happy we could spend time together."

"Me too," Bernadette smiled. "I'll miss you when John gets relocated. Apparently we're going to be stationed in Georgia again."

"That's nice," Aidie said. "I know how fondly you speak of Georgia."

"Oh, it's lovely," Bernadette smiled. "It's sunny and warm all the time and I swear to you peaches are my favorite fruit now. I should try jarring them and sending you some. You would absolutely love them."

"Well, have them sent to the General Store and I'll gladly accept," Aidie smiled. "So how much longer will you be in Washington?"

"Just another month or so," Bernadette said. "John's been talking with the base housing team about a nice little house. It won't be the one we lived in before, but it'll be lovely I'm sure. I even hear it's a little closer to the coast. You know how I love that. If I could live in a house on the coast just like your family friends I would be so happy."

"Anyone would be," Aidie smiled. "I remember when I was a kid and we'd spend the night with Jacob and Renesmee. I always fell asleep to the sound of the ocean and it would be the first thing I heard when I woke up."

Bernadette sighed longingly, "To be so lucky."

Aidie spent a few more hours with Bernadette before finally excusing herself to catch a car going back to Forks. They promised they'd see each other one more time before Bernadette left and made plans for Aidie to return in another week or so. As Aidie walked through the base nearing the exit, she looked at some of the other people on the base. It was a few wives and kids, but some of the soldiers were actually there. Eventually she left the bates, the guards letting her pass, already knowing her on a first name basis. They were, of course, also under the impression she was English and Italian. It made things easier. As she was walking closer to town, there was someone on the road wearing a utility uniform. He was carrying a bag on his shoulder and when she got a better look, she recognized some key Navel qualities to his uniform. He was tall. Very tall. He was a black man with a shaved head that complimented him nicely and a wide, handsome nose, full lips and dark eyes. She was surprised to notice everything from so far away, but she found him very handsome and couldn't help herself. The man noticed she was staring and smiled at her.

"Lovely afternoon, ain't it, miss?" the man said to her. He had such a deep voice.

"Lovely indeed," Aidie smiled at him. "Do you work on the base?"

"Not on the base, but for the base," he said. He extended his hand to her. "I'm Lawrence Macon. What might your name be?"

"Aidetzi Call," she answered and accepted his hand in a shake.

"You that White Italian the base keeps talkin' 'bout?" he chuckled.

"I'm actually Native American, but don't tell anyone that," Aidetzi smiled.

"Well, shit, I knew that," he said, then he came in just a little closer. "We be lucky, though. Them white people ain't that smart."

Aidetzi giggled a little, "So long as it helps when I visit."

"So what brings a pretty thing such as yourself to our base?"

"I'm friends with a woman whose husband is stationed here."

"How long they stationed here for?"

"Only another month and then they're going to Georgia."

"That don't mean you won't be comin' here anymore does it?"

"I'm afraid so," Aidetzi said.

"Well that just won't do," Lawrence smiled. "Seeing you's the best thing to happen to me all day. How about you come to the base just to see me?"

"I barely know you," Aidetzi smiled.

"You're right, that's my fault," Lawrence smiled. "I was actually on my way home. How 'bout you join me and we can get to know one another?"

"I'm flattered for the offer, but I should get back," Aidetzi said. "I need to catch the car to Forks."

"Forks? Is that where you live?"

"I live in the Quileute tribe west of them," Aidetzi smiled.

"Alright," Lawrence said. "Will you at least promise me when you visit next, you'll come see me?"

"I will certainly make a point to," Aidetzi said. "It was a pleasure meeting you, Lawrence."

"The pleasure, Miss Call, was all mine," Lawrence said and boldly taking her hand and placing a kiss on her hand. "You don't be a stranger, now. You hear?"

"Yes, Mr. Macon," Aidetzi returned. They eventually parted ways and Aidetzi managed to catch the car back to Forks and was home several hours later.

Days passed and it was approaching the day when she would return to the base a final time to visit Bernadette when she was told by Jae one day when he returned home that something came in to the General Store for her. The next day, she went to the store with Jae to collect what was sent for her and, to her surprise, it was a bouquet of flowers of all things. They were clearly handpicked wild flowers tied together with a bit of twine. There was a tiny note attached that was a little hard to read, but she managed to see 'Beautiful Gift for a Beautiful Girl – Lawrence'.

"Who's Lawrence?" Jae asked.

"He's a guy I met when I was leaving the base last I'd visited Bernadette," Aidetzi smiled.

"Well, you certainly made an impression it seems," Hailey said. "Is he one of the sailors?"

"I don't think so," Aidetzi said. "We didn't get that far. We exchanged names, he asked what brought me there and invited me to go home with him and I told him I needed to get back."

"Ah," Hailey said.

"What?"

"Nothing," Hailey said. "Just try to keep your head about you. That's all."

"Thanks, Mr. Dauer, but I'll be fine," Aidetzi smiled.

Later that same week, Aidetzi returned to the base to visit Bernadette. She asked her if she happened to know a man named Lawrence Macon, but since he wasn't one of the sailors and didn't live on base, she didn't know him. They shared a tearful goodbye, promised to write each other, and Aidetzi left her friend's house for the final time unless she were stationed in Washington again. She assured Aidetzi she'd make a point to ensure John made sure of it. Aidetzi reached the entrance and asked the guards if they knew a Lawrence Macon. She described him and the instant she mentioned he was black, the guard, colorfully to say the least, advised he would be in a blacks only portion further out but otherwise didn't know him. Aidetzi followed the directions she was given and found the portion of the base she was told about. Comparatively it was a slum but it was full of hustle and bustle. She stopped the first woman she saw and asked if she knew where Lawrence was.

"Macon? Oh, yeah, he lives a few blocks from here. You'd have better luck finding him at the bar, though. Lots of the maintenance crew go out drinking after work."

"Thank you," Aidetzi answered and walked until she located the bar in question. When she stepped in, it was a night and day difference, figuratively and literally. She'd heard of black and white segregation, but she'd never seen it in practice. There was even a sign on the door that had read "Colored's Bar".

"Aidetzi, is that you?" she heard the familiar voice and then Lawrence was standing before her.

"I am so long as you're Lawrence," Aidetzi joked. "You can call me Aidie. Everyone does."

"It's cute as you, baby," he answered. "How 'bout we have some sodas and get to know one another?"

"I think that sounds sweet," Aidetzi smiled and followed him to the bartender who gave them some colas and they went to a table together. "I've never actually had one of these," she said before taking a sip of the soda.

"It's a favorite of mine," he said. Then he pulled out a pack of cigarettes from his shirt pocket with a box of matches. "Madam?" he offered, but Aidetzi shook her head.

"I'm alright. I had the way those smell," she said.

"Damn shame," he chuckled and then proceeded to light his own. He made sure to blow the smoke away from them, but given everyone was smoking, it was a slightly wasted endeavor. "So you enjoy that visit with your friend?"

"Yes," Aidetzi said. "We cried a little, but we'll write each other. She promised she'll make John put in a request to be stationed back here as soon as possible."

"Well, that's sweet a her," Lawrence said. "I'm a little more interested in you, though. You said you're an Indian?"

"Yes, I'm Quileute," Aidetzi smiled.

"Did you get those flowers I sent?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact, I did. Thank you. They were beautiful," she answered sweetly.

"Only half as much as you," he replied and made Aidetzi giggle a little.

"Are you always this much of a charmer?"

"Only when someone's special," he said and Aidetzi smiled.

"Tell me about you," she said. "What do you do?"

"I maintain the boats," he answered. "Keep 'em clean, make sure they workin', boring shit."

"Where were you born?"

"Fayetteville," he said.

"Where's that?"

"North Carolina," he said. "I've only been stationed here a few months. It's fuckin' cold up here! I don't know how you deal with it."

"It's not so bad," Aidetzi said. "You don't kiss your mother with that mouth I hope."

"Let me tell you somethin'," Lawrence chuckled. "My daddy used to cuss like a sailor. My granddaddy was a slave and his owner swore constantly. You could say it's our language. That's how he got the last name Macon. When they freed us, we named ourselves after the town he was born in when he was a slave. Macon, Georgia. My daddy's sister's name is Georgia."

"Is it really?" Aidetzi giggled.

"Damn straight," he said. "No shit, my daddy's name was George."

"You're making that up," Aidetzi laughed.

"No, I ain't," Lawrence laughed. "George and Georgia Macon, that's their names! My mama's name is Daisy Macon and, to answer your other question, she used to wash my mouth out with soap every Sunday."

"That I'll believe," Aidetzi giggled. "Do you have any brothers or sisters?"

"Just a sister," Lawrence said. "What about you?"

"Yes," Aidie said. "I'm the second oldest of 12 kids."

"You shittin' me," Lawrence said with a laugh. "How'd your mama and daddy make 12 kids?"

"By fucking," Aidetzi said bluntly and they laughed harder.

"That's right, now I'm makin' you cozy," he said.

Rather unintentionally, Aidetzi stayed at the bar with Lawrence for hours. They talked about family, he told her about North Carolina, but said he was born in Georgia. Aidetzi said, what little she could, about her mother's origins and told him a handful of stories about her tribe, even feeling comfortable talking about wolves under the guise that it was a 'legend'. She talked about how her brother Jae had gotten married not long ago, Lawrence told her about how he'd been to a friend's wedding a year prior and they didn't stop until the bartender kicked them out. It was late in the night by the time Aidetzi and Lawrence left and she realized it was horridly late.

"I guess there's no catching a car," she joked.

"You welcome to stay with me," Lawrence suggested.

"That's alright, I can always go back to the base and ask Bernadette to let me spend the night. I think she'd be happy to have me a little while longer."

"Ah, come now. We're havin' all this fun. I don't want the night to end just yet."

"If I didn't know any better, I'd say you were just trying to sleep with me," Aidetzi teased.

"Only if you let me, baby," Lawrence chuckled. "Don't worry. I won't tell a soul."

"Mhm," Aidetzi answered skeptically and smiled. "I had a wonderful time tonight, Lawrence. I'll spend the night with Bernadette, but I appreciate the offer to let me stay with you."

"You gonna break my heart like that Aidie?" he teased.

"I'm afraid so," Aidetzi smiled.

"You know what, at least let me drive you home," Lawrence said. "I can burrow a car and that way we have a little more time together." Aidetzi thought about it a moment and then smiled.

"If you can get a car, I'll let you drive me home," she said and Lawrence smiled as though he'd won a prize.

"Don't you worry, baby. I'll take you home with God's chariot if I have to."

They meandered around the base for a while until they found someone that could lend Lawrence a car. It was a hard ask, but he eventually convinced the Maintenance Director to let him burrow the car and Aidetzi showed him the way back to Forks. It was a long drive made harder in the dark, but Lawrence didn't utter a single complaint. They eventually reached Forks in the middle of the night and he parked the car right in front of Hailey's and Leah's house.

"I thought you said you lived on the reservation," he said.

"I do, but it's a long walk and I'm tired. I can just burrow Mr. Dauer's couch for the night."

"You sure, baby? I don't mind drivin' a little longer."

"There aren't any roads that way, so this is easier, but thank you for offering," Aidetzi smiled. "Thank you for the ride."

"When can I see you again?" he asked.

"Um…when did you want to see me?"

"ASAP," he smiled. "I'll even make you dinner. My mama taught me how to make collard greens and grits that'll make your eyes tear up with joy."

Aidetzi giggled, "Well, how can I say no to that?"

"How about next Friday night?"

"Alright," Aidetzi smiled. "I'll see you next Friday."

"I can't wait," he said. "Can I get a goodnight kiss?"

"Well," Aidetzi said, "since you asked so nicely."

They chuckled a little before they leaned towards one another and shared a kiss. He was so warm and smelled of cigarettes. He tasted of them too. But she didn't mind. He also tasted of cola and breath mints. It was a strange combination. When they pulled away, Aidetzi smiled sweetly and placed her hand on the door.

"Goodnight, Lawrence," Aidetzi smiled and let herself out of the car.

"Goodnight, baby. Dream of me," he said before she closed the door. She waved goodbye and walked up to the house. He waited until she let herself into the house and didn't drive away until she closed the door of the house. She leaned against the door and sighed but was startled when she heard someone yell.

"Who's there?!" She jumped when she heard Hailey's voice. He relaxed, though, when he saw Aidetzi. "Aidie? What the hell are you doing here? It's the middle of the night?"

"Sorry, Mr. Dauer. I left the base a lot later than I'd meant to. I got a ride back."

"You just got back?" he asked.

"Jesus, Aidie, your parents are probably worried sick."

"They'll be alright," Aidetzi said. "You wouldn't mind if I slept on your couch would you?"

"Yeah, that's fine," Hailey said. "Just don't do this again."

"I'm sorry to inconvenience you."

"It's not that," he said. "That's not…shit, look at me talking about being 'appropriate'. Anyway, it doesn't look good coming home in the middle of the night with a guy driving you back. The last thing you want is the town talking behind your back."

"Thank you for thinking of me," Aidetzi said. "I'll leave you to get back to bed."

"Alright. Goodnight, Aidie. And I mean it. Don't make a habit of this. It doesn't look good."

"I won't," Aidie said and went to the back to sleep on the couch.

As Hailey had predicted, when Aidetzi finally got home, Caevia was less than pleased, wondering why she'd been gone so late. Aidetzi explained she'd just visited Bernadette longer than expected and got home late. After that, Caevia let it go. Eventually, Aidetzi mentioned she'd be returning the following Friday for a date. While a little apprehensive, she told Aidetzi it was fine but that she expected her home at a more reasonable time. Aidetzi agreed and that was the end of the conversation. When Friday came, Natalie made the announcement that she and Jae were official pregnant with their first child. There was delight over it, especially on Jae's part. He had already started carving wooden toys on his lunch breaks and Jacob gladly joined. The Cullens didn't waste time preparing either. Aidetzi congratulated Natalie and made sure to congratulate Jae before she took a car up to the base. It was still a little early when she arrived, so she got directions to Lawrence's house, effectively spreading word that she'd arrived, and sat on a lawn chair in front of the tiny house reading while she waited. Eventually, so engrossed in her book, she was startled when Lawrence tapped on the page to get her attention.

"Sorry, baby, I didn't mean to scare you," he said.

"No, you're alright," she said and stood from the lawn chair. "I was just miles away."

"What'cha readin' baby?"

"Pride and Prejudice. It's a personal favorite of mine."

"I never really got into readin'. I'm sad to say my skills are little to none."

"I'm sorry," Aidetzi said.

"Don't be, baby, it's alright," he said. "Although I'm always happy for a teacher."

"I'm sure I could make that happen," Aidetzi smiled. "In the meantime, how about we get inside and you make those collard greens and grits you promised me?"

"Absolutely," he said and they went inside together. He got to work right away on dinner and she helped here and there. The walls were rather barren save for one picture of an older woman on the wall.

"Is that your mother?" she asked.

"Yeah, that's her, God rest her soul," he said. "She died a few months ago."

"I'm so sorry," Aidetzi said.

"Yeah, I miss her every day. I don't love many people but I did love her."

"She seems like a lovely woman," she said.

"Depended on what day you caught her," Lawrence chuckled. "She was a God fearin' woman to the bone. She was the loudest singer at church every Sunday and made me join the choir when I was a kid. Every Christmas, she'd wake me up early for church and it would be worth it when we got home and she made chicken liver and cornbread. I tell you, that woman's cornbread. I told her one day 'Mama, I won't marry any woman that don't know how to cook cornbread just like you'. Suddenly I find out every girl in the neighborhood be learnin' how to make her cornbread."

Aidetzi giggled, "She really wanted you married didn't she?"

"Yeah, she did," Lawrence said. "My sister knows how to cook it at least and she's a willing cooking instructor."

"Well, now I'm wanting to try this cornbread."

"See, baby, that's the catch. I've had lots of people try makin' mama's cornbread and it's never good enough. You know why?"

"Because your mother didn't make it?"

"That's right," he smiled. The two of them laughed a little. "Now, collard greens? Collard greens I can do. And red beans. I can cook red beans."

"I love red beans," Aidetzi said.

"Sounds to me, then, that I'll need to invite you over for dinner and show off more," he said.

When dinner was finally ready, the two of them sat down together and talked well into the evening. When it was approaching time for her to catch the car, Lawrence asked as he always did for her to stay the night or allow him to drive her home. She kindly declined and, rather, Lawrence walked her to where the car stop was. When they were still out of view, he stole one kiss and asked her to come see him again really soon. She promised she'd see him again the following Friday. And so it became her habit to visit Lawrence every Friday and have dinner with him. They made learning to read part of their repertoire but he was always far more interested in her. It wasn't long before she found herself quite interested in him too and, one day, when she arrived at his house, she called the General Store on their brand new telephone and asked Hailey to let her family know she'd be staying at the base for the night and she'd return home the following day.

Edward and Kevin continued to work together to get the new Law Firm up and running. Their perspective clients were aware of their impending opening and they even already had a case they were working on. Just a property dispute, but certainly something to get them started right off the bat. By November of that year, the building was paid for, Alphonse and Kevin both signed on as co-owners, Alphonse bought the big house Edward had shown him, Kevin's little house was fully decorated complete with a candle room like he'd requested and all that was left was to start hiring staff.

"Is everything alright, sir?" Olga asked when Kevin asked her into his office.

"Everything's great," Kevin smiled. "We've been keeping this largely under wraps, but by December, Alphonse and I will be leaving for Seattle to start our own Law Firm."

"Congratulations, sir," Olga smiled, but it was a weak smile. "I guess I should ask you if you would be so kind as to be a reference for me?"

"I suppose that'll depend on whether or not you turn down my offer."

"Offer, sir?"

"I wanted to offer you to come with us to Seattle," Kevin said. "You've been an asset to us and I can think of no one I'd rather keep as a legal assistant than you." Olga was speechless at first. "I realize it's a big transition and I realize we'd need to make it worth your while, so I wanted to negotiate what would make the move worth it for you."

"Mr. Black," she said. "I'm….I don't really know….that's on the other side of the country. I don't know if I can leave my family like that."

"I can understand that," Kevin said reassuringly. "I'll tell you what: how about I start by offering you a $200/year raise in salary? Cost of living is less in Washington, so that'll go a long way. And, if you decide you would prefer to remain in Connecticut, you have my word that I'll gladly be a reference for you and a glowing one at that. What do you say?"

Olga was silent a moment. She appeared thoughtful and glanced down at her hands. "It's a generous offer," she mumbled, but breathed and looked at him. "Would you mind terribly if I took some time to think about it?"

"Of course," Kevin smiled. "If you can, let me know before the end of the week. Alphonse and I are leaving right after Thanksgiving, so we need to keep up a fast pace."

"Yes sir," Olga smiled. "And regardless of my answer, thank you for the kind offer."

"You're welcome, Olga," Kevin said.

Although Alphonse insisted they needed to start looking for legal assistants on that answer from her alone, Kevin wanted to give her a chance to think it through. Two days later, Olga asked Kevin for a moment of his time and they retreated to his office to talk.

"I spoke with my parents about this," Olga said once they were seated. She laughed a little. "You know what they told me?"

"What was that?"

"They said if I turned down your offer, I would be, 'Ein verdammter Narr'," (a damned fool) she answered and the two of them chuckled. "So by that logic, I'm honored to accept the position in Seattle if it's still open."

"Yes, ma'am, it is," Kevin smiled and the two shook hands. "We leave after Thanksgiving, so that'll give you time to prepare for the move to Seattle. I hope you don't mind, but I took the liberty of looking into housing in that area and there are plenty of places available that are reasonably priced, so you should be housed not long after arriving, though I'm happy to assist with a hotel to make it easier."

"I'm flattered, Kevin, but you've already done enough," Olga smiled. "I can't wait to start."

"Neither can I," Kevin answered confidently.

Not long after that, Alphonse and Kevin made Mr. Huntington aware of their business venture and that they, as well as Olga, would be leaving come the end of November. He was surprisingly sad to see them go, even offering to double their pay so they might stay, but they agreed they wanted to start up on their own and, as a parting kindness, Mr. Huntington agreed he'd make sure their names remained in the loop and considered ones to be highly sought after. Their reputation with previous cases already assured that in spades. It was, however, a slightly spoiled victory for them when it inevitably came the time to tell Ana and, subsequently, Alphonse's family about the transition. Ana was livid, and such wording put her state mildly. Kevin joined Alphonse in telling her the news. The remainder of the night was spent with Kevin trying desperately to act as mediator while Ana and Alphonse screamed at one another. Kevin begged Dianna to take Anastasia to his house so she wouldn't have to listen to all the yelling and, eventually, they were surprised when police were called to their home due to a 'noise complaint' that Kevin had to explain away as best as possible to make them leave.

Telling his parents wasn't any more pleasant an experience. The senior Baronet called the move 'absurd' and 'wasteful' while Lady Heidelberg called it a needless venture and a waste of Alphonse's inheritance. Frankly, the hostile and adamant opposition made Alphonse all the more determined to continue and prove them wrong. Ana never necessarily agreed with the move, but all the same, they all left for Seattle, Washington following Thanksgiving as intended. Kyle would join them shortly following his official completion of his schooling for which the family would come out east to see his graduation. Dianna spent most of the trip with Kevin, keeping an eye on Anastasia. Ana was still in a sour mood to say the least and during the train ride to Washington, it was not uncommon for her to pick a fight with Alphonse.

"Uncle Kevin," Anastasia asked one day on the trip. "Will mommy and daddy ever stop fighting?"

"It's just a hard move for your mother," Kevin said, trying to delicately answer. "I'm sure once she sees Seattle, she'll be alright. She just needs time to get used to it is all."

"Is Seattle nice?" she asked.

"I can't say I know the city very well," Kevin said honestly. "I grew up in the Quileute tribe near Forks and that's a tiny blip on the map if you can even call it that."

"So there aren't any big buildings?"

"No, Anastasia, I'm afraid not," Kevin said. "But don't you worry, Anastasia. You'll see plenty of big buildings in Seattle. How about when we get there, your daddy and I take you horse racing? You like that, don't you?"

"Yes!" Anastasia smiled eagerly. She left her seat across from him beside Dianna and went right to his seat and sat beside him and started snuggling up to him. "Can I pick the horse you bet on?" she asked.

"Of course you can," Kevin said. "If you pick the horse, I'll be sure to win. And I'll tell you something else, Anastasia."

"What?"

"Someday soon, your old Uncle Kevin's going to get married."

"Really?"

"Yes, really. She's a nice woman named Amber and I'm working to get her father to let us get married. But there's one big problem."

"Oh no," she looked sad. "What?"

"We don't have a flower girl," Kevin answered, speaking as though it were the worst thing that could ever happen. "And I just don't know what we're going to do."

"I can be your flower girl!" Anastasia so graciously offered.

"Would you really?" Kevin asked. "That would be so sweet of you to do that for us."

"I will!" Anastasia smiled eagerly and then crossed her heart. "Cross my heart and hope to die, I will be the best flower girl ever!"

"I've no doubt of that," Kevin chuckled and started tickling Anastasia, making her laugh. Dianna smiled as the laughter became infectious and also relieved that Anastasia was being given some joy given the past few weeks. "Thanks so much, Anastasia. You really are a life saver."

When they all arrived in Seattle, the Cullens as well as Jacob and Renesmee, were there to greet them and help them get things moved into their respective homes as well as their new office. Esme was no less than a good sport about it, but when getting the house ready, Ana was nothing short of demanding and at times impossible. "If my husband is going to insist we live here," she said to Esme, "he can certainly pay for the inconvenience." However, she was thoroughly pleased when she saw Anastasia's room decorated as any little girl would dream with vibrant colors and plush toys all around, including soft teddy bears in little overalls and all sorts of different outfits. It finally came to be December and their first order of business was the throw a New Year's party of their own to greet any new clients as well as try to network and win over as many more as they could. The Cullens were invited of course. All the while, Kevin was making plans for an early visit to Germany. He'd been working on a new bracelet for Amber. The last one he'd made her was entirely organic, made with seashells and cuttlebone. This one was different. He also had another plan up his sleeve with a trend in proposals that had become popular in recent years.

At their New Year's celebration, Kevin, Alphonse, and all their guests welcomed 1929 with the hope of continuing growth and prosperity. That January, he told Alphonse to give him some time to run to Germany for some pressing business, promising he'd be back in no time. He'd need to make this trip quick and he wasn't sure when he'd return, but he needed to sow the seeds. To save time, Kevin ran to New York in a mad dash to make the soonest boat to Le Havre. As soon as he arrived in France, he didn't bother with a train and ran to Berlin in less than half the time. He got himself set up in a hotel and, as soon as he was comfortable, he walked to the bank where Levi worked and left a message with the man at the front desk asking Levi to meet him at their usual café. Kevin waited patiently, having ordered them some coffee and even asking that lunch be brought out as soon as Levi arrived. When Levi finally did, Kevin realized he was nervous.

"I didn't realize you were coming to Germany," Levi said, taking a seat.

"Yes, I wanted it to be a surprise, at least for Amber. I can't stay long, but I had some updates I wanted to share with you."

"And what updates might those be?" Levi asked. Kevin pulled out the documentation of the office he and Alphonse had purchased, a list of their clients (for good measure), pictures of the house he was now living it complete with a picture of the candle room he'd had installed, a few pictures of Seattle, and a newspaper clipping of the soon to be completed Synagogue in the area where he was living as well as some information about some schools.

"As you can see, Alphonse and I have started our business and our clientele is panning out quite nicely. We're already working on some important cases that are guaranteed to bring in a lot of revenue that will suit us very well."

"So it would seem," Levi answered, stunned.

"As to the Synagogue, I took the liberty of meeting the Rabi who's family is building it. You'd like him. His father is a math professor at the university and he's a bit of a numbers nerd himself."

"That's certainly pleasant news," Levi barely managed.

"As you can see, the house I have is complete with a candle room and, of course, plenty of room for a family and has excellent prospects in elementary and higher education. That's to say nothing of the fact that any children will be guaranteed an education from my mother's side of the family equaling the one I was raised with. Granted, I would like some time to develop some consistency with the business. Right now things are looking good, but we still have some things to work out.

"Understandable," Levi said. "You managed all this in just a few short months?"

"Yes, sir," Kevin said. "With your permission, Levi, I would love to present Amber with a new bracelet and, if you will give your approval, officially propose to her and make the engagement official. I realize we have a lot of planning left to do and I want to ensure that when Amber makes the move to America, it's with a wedding on the horizon. A Jewish wedding no less."

"And you've convinced the Rabi to permit that?" Levi asked.

"Not yet," Kevin said. "I met him briefly and I did broach the possibility to him, but he was rather reluctant on the topic. I have a lot of schmoozing left to do before he'll agree. I'll not be above begging for your assistance should I need it, but I think I might be able to convince him eventually."

"I see," Levi said. "And you're aware of the requirements of a proper Jewish wedding?"

"I'll gladly educate myself on it, sir," Kevin said. Levi nodded and cleared his throat. He wasn't sure whether to be impressed that Kevin had worked this hard or slightly annoyed that it happened so fast. Regardless, he did what he'd asked of him.

"How long will you be here for?"

"I arrived today and I can remain another two," Kevin said.

"Let me arrange for us all to have dinner together tomorrow and the cabaret. We haven't done that in a long time. And Amber will be graduating from the University soon, so it'll be a good excuse to take them out. I assume you wish to surprise her yourself?"

"If you will allow it," Kevin said.

"Alright. Do you happen to have the bracelet?"

"Yes, sir," Kevin said. He pulled out two black boxes: one with the bracelet and the other with his special gift. He started with the bracelet, something he'd made himself as was traditionally required. He'd obtained jade from a jeweler and, with Jae's guidance, carved the vibrant green jade into leaves and carved garnet he'd obtained while still in Connecticut into an orchid. It was easily the hardest craft he'd ever done and he had each piece secured in gold for the chain.

"You made that?" Levi asked.

"Yes, sir, I did. There's also a new trend back home that I thought I might include us in." Kevin turned to the smaller box and opened it to present a diamond ring. It was a rather new tradition that was becoming popular but he'd seen the ring on his way home one day and thought of Amber, so he knew he needed to get it. In truth, it was rather simple: a gold band with a large sapphire cut diamond. The ring sparkled in the sun showing some hints of light when reflecting against some snow. "What do you think?"

"I think I need to start saving for Amber's wedding," Levi answered and Kevin smiled brightly.

"I'll gladly contribute to that bill," Kevin answered. "We'd arrange for two weddings: a traditional Jewish wedding and a traditional Quileute wedding. The latter will be free, so we can focus on the former."

"We'll have to make arrangements to alter Anna's dress. We'll be at the cabaret by six tomorrow. I'll leave the proposal to you."

"Thank you, Levi," Kevin said. "And thank you. I apologize again for my previous indiscretion, but thank you for giving me the chance to make things right."

"I'm glad I did," Levi said. "Do you need these or would you mind if I show them to Anna? She'll be pleased with all this progress."

"Absolutely," Kevin said and handed over all the paperwork and pictures he'd brought. "And thank you again."

"You'd better make my daughter happy, Kevin," Levi said. "You hear me?" Levi smiled and winked at him and Kevin chuckled.

"She'll want for nothing," Kevin answered.

They parted ways and Kevin returned to the hotel. Needed to calm his nerves, he worked on a case he'd brought with him. Last he was this nervous, he was preparing to run into no man's land and fight the Germans in hand to hand combat. He was too nervous to order dinner and rather spent time pressing his nice suit he'd brought and getting it ready. He resisted the urge to write a letter and pay some kid to take it to her mailbox. He wanted her completely unaware until tomorrow night. The following day, he remained at the hotel trying to ensure Amber wouldn't see him. He spent the day trying to relax, but the closer it was getting to six, the more nervous he became. He started getting cleaned up and dressed before it was time to leave, but he wanted to look his best. He left the hotel at 6:00 and made the walk to the cabaret, nearly shaking. When he arrived, he immediately saw the Dymeks sitting at the table. They were all dressed nicely and Amber was stunning as always. Her hair was curled and he could tell she was wearing his dog tags, he saw her star, and noticed she was wearing the first bracelet he'd given her. After this new bracelet and ring, he'd need to ensure she stayed out of open water lest she might sink. He took a deep breath and walked to the table where they were sitting and Amber went wide eyed when she saw him.

"Evening Levi, Anna," Kevin said to Levi and Anna first. Levi stood and shook Kevin's hand.

"You're earlier than we expected," Levi said. "Please, sit with us." Kevin and Levi took the seats while Amber continued to stare.

"I didn't realize you were coming," Amber said.

"I know. I wanted it to be a surprise," Kevin smiled.

"It certainly was," Anna said with a very pleased smile. "Levi told me you're leaving tomorrow?"

"I'm afraid so," Kevin said.

"But you just arrived," Amber protested.

"I know," Kevin smiled. "I just had something important I needed to do in Germany."

"Surely you could stay one more day," Anna said.

"I will be here in the morning before I have to get back," Kevin said regretfully. "Levi told you Alphonse and I finally opened our law firm correct?"

"Yes, he did," Anna answered. "He's given me quite the story you've told. We're all very proud of you."

"Thank you for saying," Kevin smiled. "So Amber," Kevin turned his attention, "how has school been?"

"Well," Amber answered, still a little surprised. Delighted of course, but surprised. "I'm working on a business plan for my class and I'm modeling it after the shop. Since I'm already part of a business with my mother, the instructors are impressed with me in discussions."

"That's excellent," Kevin smiled. "How have the classes in business law been treating you?"

"More complicated, but I'm pushing through," Amber smiled. "Mom and daddy handled everything from the legal end, so I was surprised to see how many laws there were to starting a business, but it's been undeniably helpful."

"That's about sums up law," Kevin joked. "It's complicated and overwhelming, but you'll be happy you're well versed in it."

"Of course, having a lawyer on call certainly helps," Levi joked. Soon, a waiter came and took their orders and they continued to talk well into the evening. Kevin was trying his best to create the perfect moment. So when it approached the time of the evening when patrons were given reign to play the piano, Kevin eagerly volunteered and requested Amber to come and join him on the piano bench.

"He said he's proposing did he not?" Anna asked when they'd left the table.

"He did," Levi said. "I'm sure he's waiting for the opportune time." When Kevin and Amber were seated, he discreetly placed the two black boxes between them, talking to Amber the whole time so she wouldn't notice. Then he started playing a waltz. Other guests began to dance while Kevin took advantage of the privacy to talk about what he'd wanted to.

"So I talked to your dad yesterday," Kevin said.

"Why didn't you come over for dinner or something? Do you really have to leave tomorrow?"

"I'm afraid so, but like I said; I have something I needed to do."

"And what was that?" Amber asked.

"Well, like I said, I spoke with Levi yesterday. I showed him the new business, a list of clients, a synagogue being built nearby and a little house I'd bought."

"So you've moved back to Washington?"

"Yes," Kevin said. "And Levi was pleased with everything and it looks like Anna is too."

"I'm happy to hear it," Amber said.

"So am I," Kevin smiled. "Did you notice the boxes?" Amber looked at him strangely and then glanced down to see the two black boxes he'd placed between them on the piano bench. She picked up the biggest one and glanced at Kevin. He nodded with a smile and Amber opened it to see the bracelet.

"Kevin," Amber sighed at its beauty.

"If you'll give me just one second," he said as he finished the song. Once he did, he turned his attention to placing the bracelet on Amber's wrist right behind her first one. "There's one more thing." Then Kevin picked up the smaller box and now, after everyone had clapped for Kevin's playing, they all continued to watch having noticed that Kevin had given Amber a gift. Some children came closer to investigate just as Kevin opened the small box to show Amber the ring. "It's become a rather popular trend back home for the man to offer his lover a ring when he proposes." Amber was completely speechless as she stared at the ring, her hand over her mouth. "There's just one more new tradition."

The children that had been watching ran to their parents to tell them that the people by the piano were getting engaged. That information spread like wildfire and now everyone was watching in anticipation to see if the young lady would accept. Kevin ignored them as he stood Amber up by the piano. As was traditionally chivalrous and as the advertisements and jeweler had said, Kevin got on one knee offering the ring to Amber. Normally, he'd just speak in German, but French was always the language of their love letters so it seemed appropriate for the most important question he realized he'd never officially asked her.

"Amber Charlotte Dymek," Kevin said, "Veux-tu m'épouser?" Amber was crying now and almost couldn't answer. While most in the room didn't understand French, they could figure out what his question had been and it was as though time had stopped. Eventually she managed to nod, tears running down her face.

"Yes," she answered in German and they were stunned out of their little world when the whole din began cheering. Amber glanced behind her not realizing the whole cabaret was watching, but Kevin got over it quickly and stood up, placing the ring on her left ring finger. She looked at it on her finger and loved it even more and then looked up at Kevin. "I love you," she said.

"I love you too," Kevin answered and swept her into his arms to hug her, which she returned, making the fellow patrons of the cabaret cheer with renewed enthusiasm.

"Ladies and gentleman," the owner of the cabaret said over a microphone. "It would appear a celebration is in order! As a congratulations to this fine couple, everyone please enjoy dessert and wine on the house!"

The whole Cabaret cheered and clapped. Amber blushed profusely while she looked up at Kevin. Perhaps it was brazen, but Kevin gave Amber one quick peck on the lips before taking her down to the floor where people had been dancing. As if to tease them, one of the violinists played a wedding march briefly when they were on the dance floor. As promised, everyone in the establishment was served a dessert and wine and the band played encouraging everyone to dance. Levi and Anna were clapping with the crowd and Levi glanced at Anna and noticed she had cried a little.

"Are you alright, Anna?" Levi asked.

"Better than," she said and brushed away the tears. "This is how I wanted it to be. A good man proposing to Amber in the most romantic way possible after he earned our approval. Goodness, I'll need to get my dress fitted on her."

"I'd suggest we hold off on that for now," Levi chuckled. "Let's worry about actually planning the event before we worry about what she'll wear."

"Do you suppose we should have a spring wedding? Or maybe fall?"

"I'd ask Amber," Levi chuckled again. "Let's give them a chance to bask in the moment before we berate them for details." Anna nodded, rubbing another tear away. After a moment when the pianist announced they'd play a slow song for the happy couple, the band proceeded to play Canon D. The slower pace was welcomed and Amber rested her head against Kevin's chest as they danced.

"Do you really have to leave tomorrow?" Amber asked.

"I'm afraid so," Kevin said.

"I don't want you to, though."

Kevin smiled and kissed the top of Amber's head. That mere moment was indescribably satisfying. "I don't want to either, but I have to. I need to be there now more than ever. It's the early stages of a business that's barely a month old. Alphonse and I have a lot of work to do."

"I guess so," Amber said. "Will you visit this summer?"

"I can't this year," Kevin said, "but I'll make it up to you. I'll come for Hanukkah. I've been wanting to experience that with you."

Amber smiled, "You'll enjoy it. We can play dreidel together. Remember?"

"I'll just need a reminder what the symbols mean," Kevin said.

"This time we'll gamble with candy like you're supposed to," Amber said. "That house you bought. What's it like?" With a grin, Kevin thought of the house, putting the memories into her head, starting from the outside looking at the front, white picket fence and all. He walked her through room by room, with the kitchen, living room, a drawing room, the huge backyard, the master bedroom, the bedrooms for the children, his office and finally ended with the candle room he'd ensured was made just for her.

"Once it's time to have kids, we'll build a little playground in the backyard," Kevin said. "There's a little park nearby where there's an elementary school too. The Rabi building the Synagogue near our new house is even building a playground so our kids will have no trouble finding a place to play."

"Maybe I should beg mom and daddy to let me visit you in Washington," Amber said. "I would love to see the neighborhood."

"It might be a while before we can get them to agree to that," Kevin smiled. "Maybe next year we can make that happen. Hopefully by then we'll be able to start planning the wedding."

"I want it in the fall," Amber said.

"I'd like it in the fall," Kevin smiled. "Do you suppose I could make a request?"

"Of course," Amber smiled.

"I know it's a Catholic tradition, but I would love for us to have a Unity Candle. Our mothers would light the two small candles and then we'd use those to light the big candle."

"We could make it mostly white with discreet layers of green and lavender," Amber agreed. "You spoke with the Rabi of that Synagogue?"

"Yes, I got to speak with him a little, but at the moment I'm just trying to convince him to let us have a Jewish ceremony. So far he's turned me down, but I'll keep bugging him until he agrees."

Amber giggled, "Try to be as polite as possible. Does he speak German?"

"I think he's Eastern European actually," Kevin said. "I didn't get a chance to ask him much."

"If he speaks German or French, I can ask daddy to write to him and put in a good word for you."

"I'll try to woo the man myself first before I ask Levi to write a letter," Kevin smiled and kissed the top of her head again.

"I guess this means I need to start hunkering down and learning English," Amber smiled. "I have a professor at the university that speaks English. I can ask him to teach me."

"Do you want me to start writing to you in English?" Kevin asked.

"Hold off on that until further notice," Amber joked and they laughed a little.

When Kevin had to leave the following morning, it was a sad goodbye, but Kevin went to their house for breakfast before leaving. He promised Amber he'd write as soon as he returned home and he left with an elevated sense of excitement. When he returned, he wrote a letter to Amber as promised and when he returned to work, Alphonse was shocked to see him.

"You're back already?" Alphonse asked. "I thought you said you were going to Germany."

"I did," Kevin said. "I told you I'd make it a quick trip."

From then on, Kevin would periodically visit the Synagogue near his house enquiring about the possibility of him and his new bride to be getting married there. The Rabi said no every time, but Kevin could tell he was starting to wear on the man. Their conversations became more and more friendly with each visit. The year progressed and things were going well for everyone it seemed. Aidetzi was frequenting the Naval base visiting Lawrence, Kyle was working with Carlisle on the possibility of opening a hospital together for the Quileutes, Makka and Hou tribes to go to and even the residence of Forks should they need it, but right now that was just planning. Kyle wanted to have a place that was specialized for treatment rather than Renesmee having to see everyone in the back room of the house. Renesmee was eager to see the idea take shape but continued to see people that were in need of her at the house. Of course, moon ceremonies would always be held there and, at least from the Quileute tribe, deliveries of children would be in the home per tradition. Come May, Natalie went into labor in the middle of the day and Jacob ran to the General Store and told Jae to come home. A customer was there of course when he was told Natalie was in labor, so within an hour the whole town knew. Early the next day, they had their first son who, as promised, was named Jay Jacob Dauer. When Jae returned to work, again the whole town knowing within an hour, everyone demanded news and asked how Natalie was doing. People flooded to the tribe day after day to visit their favorite General Store worker's new baby boy.

"He is just a darling!" Mrs. Pierce said when she met the baby. "Little JJ looks just like his daddy."

Natalie giggled as did Caevia, "You've no idea how true that really is," Caevia answered. "When I met my grandson, I swore it was Jae I was looking at."

"He came into the world far quieter than his dad, though," Embry sr. joked. "Being the only one makes life easier as it turns out."

"Oh, that's right, Jae's a twin isn't he?" Mrs. Pierce said.

"I'm a twin," Natalie said. "Jae's a triplet."

"Wait, he is?" another woman asked. "Gracious, how are you still standing?" she asked Caevia.

"I haven't the vaguest idea," Caevia joked.

When she was feeling better, Natalie and Jae spent a weekend with the Makka so Rae could meet her new nephew. She loved him instantly. Thanks to the townspeople, JJ stuck as the little boy's nickname. It was easier to say than Jay Jacob and it avoided confusion. Wren was fascinated by his cousin but lost interested and started crying when he pulled on JJ's foot making his cousin cry. Natalie even went to the General Store with Jae so Hailey could meet the baby and his reaction was to be expected. He stared at JJ awkwardly unsure what to do with him except say he was cute and go about his day. Leah was a little more attentive, as were any townspeople that came to visit the baby. They all agreed the little boy was the striking image of his father.

Scarlet was excited about her cousin and frequently tried helping Natalie with anything she could manage. Though she was not above joining her parents to California of course. It was a trip that Nathan had promised they would take as a family, just the three of them, and it was just the adventure Nathan needed. They went all over California enjoying the coast and the beaches. The sun was intoxicating and Nathan and Tomoeh would spend hours together on the beach watching Scarlet play in the water. She learned from some local children how to build sand castles and it became her obsession. One day while Tomoeh napped on a blanket and Nathan kept an eye on her, Scarlet painstakingly and meticulously built a little sand city complete with a castle, tiny houses, and a moat. She decorated it with seashells she'd collected and named the city she'd built Scarlet Beach. She was so proud of it. When Nathan had the chance that night, he changed to a wolf and showed everyone the city Scarlet had built so they would know exactly what she was talking about when they inevitably returned and she'd want to brag about it.

And brag about it she did. When they returned from California with fresh tans and sense of relaxation, Scarlet went straight to her grandpa Jacob and told him all about her sand city she built. Since they had a section of the beach near them that had some sand, Jacob challenged Scarlet to recreate her city which she happily did. When she was done with it feeling rather proud of herself, Jacob explained, "Now this one can't be called Scarlet Beach."

"Why not?" Scarlet asked.

"Because it's a different city. If it's a different city, you need to give it a different name."

"Maybe Willow Beach?" she asked.

"I think that sounds like a perfect name," Jacob praised and Scarlet cheered and grabbed a hold of Jacob in a big hug.

That year, everyone was feeling on top of the world. Since they'd returned from California, Nathan and Tomoeh agreed they'd start trying for another baby. Aidetzi was happy with her new relationship, JJ was adored and just as much a celebrity in town as his daddy, and the business Kevin and Alphonse started together was doing very well. The two would go to horse races together with Anastasia. Even if Kevin would often cheat, he'd always bet on a horse that Anastasia picked, calling her his good luck charm. Before he knew it, he had enough money for his winter visit to Germany and even a little extra money that went straight to the business. By October, everyone was on cloud nine. Then, on Thursday, Kevin left his home making his way to work, but something was off. He saw a large crowd of people near a newsstand and felt a sense of panic in the air. He rushed to work knowing a newspaper would be waiting on his desk. When he arrived, Olga wasn't in the office, which was extremely strange. He went to his office, but the newspaper wasn't there. So he went back out to the newsstands and in bold letters on the front page, it read: October Thursday 29, 1929 Wall Street Experience Crash in Stock. He paid for a paper and took it off the stands to obtain more information. Kevin ran back to his office and as soon as he was in, he read the devastating news.

Wall Street stocks had crashed, no one was buying stocks and the market was in a panic. Banks were broke, business were panicking and, according to another article people all over the country were committing suicide over their lost money. In that moment, Kevin remembered his money in the banks and what this all meant. He felt his heart go to the pit of his stomach and he feared he might vomit. The day was being called Black Thursday and the mere name instilled pure terror.