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.

171. Chapter 171

Chapter 171

In the throes of the custody dispute, Ahiga received some exciting news. Earlier that year he'd engaged in another local tournament and had received gold for his weight class in that tournament as well. Not long after that, he received an invitation to fight a local Middle Weight and while that fight had not been televised, it was viewed by over a thousand local boxing fans. His opponent put up a hard fight but in the end, Ahiga won the 30 round match and walked away with a $200 check for his win. He turned into a local celebrity of sorts and it actually felt really good. Come end of July, Nesia told Ahiga when he returned home from work that Jaedynn and Roshad had won the custody dispute and he was extremely happy for them. He'd gone to the gym the following day tired but in a really good mood and he used the punching bags while he waited for class to start.

"Ahiga," Boss said from his office and waived for Ahiga to come in. Once Ahiga was inside, he sat across from the man. He looked happy as a kid on Christmas. "You won't believe what fight I just landed for you."

"What?"

"I got a call this morning from Marty Gordon – he represents a Middle Weight champion in Phoenix: Luis Vieira."

"You did?" Ahiga asked. He'd only recently started getting familiar with well known boxers, but Luis Vieira was a very recent name in the ring. He was an up and comer from Mexico that had made quite a name for himself in a short amount of time for competing in tournaments in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas.

"Yeah, and he wants to fight you."

"He does?"

"Yeah," Boss said, "According to Marty, they heard about you from that tournament you competed in back in January and when he found out in one of your first tournaments, you won by Knock Out, Luis really wants to fight you."

"Holy shit," Ahiga said, a smile forming, "That's amazing. When does he want to fight?"

"October 31st," Boss said. "I think it goes without saying that this guy's got a giant Hispanic fan base – Luis's manager is planning for the whole event to center around Day of the Dead. He even got some Luchadors to fight as openers, but the focus would be you and Luis. I told him I'd talk to you and call him this evening with an answer."

"Yeah! Holy shit, yeah! Call him now!" Ahiga said, matching Boss's excitement.

"I had a feeling you'd jump at the idea," Boss chuckled and started dialing the phone. He got a hold of Marty and relayed the news that Ahiga had accepted the challenge and they'd see him and Luis in October. Ahiga was shaking with excitement. "Get out there and train. We've got a lot of work to do to make sure you're ready."

"You got it, Boss," Ahiga said and left the office going straight to the ring. Freddie was already getting prepared for the class but when he say Ahiga, he grinned ear to ear.

"I take it Boss told you the good news?"

"Yeah," Ahiga said, "I can't believe I've been offered a fight. In my home state no less."

"When you go home tonight, get some celebrating done – enjoy the relaxation. You'll be preparing for a long time," Freddie chuckled.

"Gladly," Ahiga said. He proceeded with class as usual and stayed after for a few hours to train some more with Freddie and Boss. The others were helping him along as well, having heard the good news. When Ahiga got home still drenched in sweat and his clothes soaked through, Nesia was in bed working on a lesson plan for when school started up.

"How'd training go?" Nesia asked with a smile when he came in. At first he was quiet as he came to the bed and climbed over. He pressed a kiss to her lips and made Nesia drop her lesson plan as she giggled through their kiss. "That good, huh?" she asked once he pulled away.

"I got offered a fight."

"What?"

"I got offered a fight! His name's Luis Vieira and he's a Middle Weight champion. He's won tournaments all over the Southern United States and he wants to fight me in October."

"Ahiga, that's fantastic!" Nesia said and hugged him. He hugged her back and the fell into bed together.

"The fight's going to be October 31st in Phoenix," Ahiga said.

"At least you have plenty of time to plan," Nesia said. "Have you told Oscar or Oliver?"

"Not yet. I was going to call them in the morning," Ahiga said. "I know it'll be a lot of training, but-"

"No 'buts' Ahiga; this is great," Nesia said and kissed him. "You earned this. You worked hard and I know you'll win."

"You'll come with me right?"

"Of course I will," Nesia said. "I wouldn't miss this for the world."

"I love you," Ahiga said and they started kissing again and didn't sleep until they'd both reached their climax screaming.

He was exhausted the next morning, but he didn't care. He went to work that day with a spring in his step and made sure to tell his boss that, come late October, he'd need to take off work. His boss approved the time off and told him, 'Give him hell, Ahiga,'. From that day on, he was in the gym every day after work training and Nesia was there to support him the whole way through. Oscar and Oliver were elated about the fight and were even making arrangements to bring anyone from the tribe that wanted to go see the fight. Under the circumstances, the Tistilal students were permitted time off so they could go to Phoenix to see the fight as well if they wanted to. Every last one wanted to and it turned into a big event where those that would not be going to Phoenix would instead be at the Cullen house to watch it on TV since the event would be televised.

In the meantime, Jaedynn and Roshad finally returned to Washington after getting to meet their new sons and after Kevin officially began the process. They told Gloria they would be adopting the boys and she couldn't have been happier. Per their request, she promised she wouldn't say a thing to Alex. While Kevin was able to reassure the courts would not grant Alex custody at this point no matter how much of a fuss he put up, that didn't mean he wouldn't put up a fuss and make things difficult if he found out. The boy's names were updated to Michelangelo, Donatello and Leonardo, but their last names stayed as their birth mother's names until the adoption could be official. Thankfully, Jaedynn made it back to Washington without incident, but when August started, so did her contractions although it took time for her to go into labor.

"I know you're sore, but keep walking; it'll help," Ashti said as Jaedynn was walking around the living room slowly with Ashti close to her.

"I think I'm more tired than I am sore," Jaedynn said.

"Ashti, let the poor thing sit down. You've had her pacing like a mad women for thirty minutes," Rashida said.

"Kyle told her to move to help induce labor, so I'm making her move," Ashti said.

"Kyle said nothing about not being allowed breaks," Rashida said and guided Jaedynn to sit on the couch. About then, Ivory let herself into the house having just gotten off work.

"How's Snow White doing?" Ivory asked teasingly as she was taking off her shoes.

"Tired," Jaedynn said. Ivory came over and sat beside her on the couch.

"Aunt Ivory!" Kamron cheered and ran over to her to give her a hug.

"Kamron! How's my favorite little man doing?" Ivory asked as she brought Kamron to her lap. "Have you been helping mommy? I hear she's having a really hard time today."

"Yeah!" Kamron said.

"Yes, he's been invaluable playing with his toys," Jaedynn teased and rubbed Kamron's chin.

"Any little bit helps," Ivory laughed and turned her head to look at Roshad who was holding Iman. "What about you, Iman? Are you helping?" Iman didn't answer as she had her hand in her mouth. "Sounds like you've had a fantastic nursing staff."

"The best in the world," Jaedynn laughed but then stopped as a contraction came. "Oh God that hurts."

"I thought you knew this already."

"Somehow I manage to forget the extent with each pregnancy," Jaedynn said. "Magic of the woman body I guess."

"More like a curse I'd say," Ivory said. "So do you think you'll be delivering today?"

"Based on these contractions, probably not. I'd wager I'll deliver tomorrow," Jaedynn said.

"Christ almighty," Ivory said.

"Aunt Ivory, you swore," Kamron said.

"You're damn right, kid," Ivory said.

"Stop swearing in front of the baby," Ashti scolded. Jaedynn took a few deep breaths waiting for the contractions to pass and when they did, she finally relaxed.

"Better?"

"For now," Jaedynn answered Ivory.

"Are you sure you want to adopt three more on top of this?"

"Yes, I'm sure," Jaedynn said. "I didn't show you pictures of them. Roshad, can you grab me their pictures?" Roshad did as she asked and brought the photos over. There were individual pictures as well as a few pictures of the three boys together. She showed them to Ivory for her to look.

"That's Mikie," Kamron took over, pointing at his little brothers, "that's Don, and that's Leo."

"You excited to have five baby siblings at once?" Ivory asked.

"Yeah!" Kamron said eagerly.

"So when are you getting them?"

"We don't know for sure yet," Jaedynn said. "Uncle Kevin's trying to make the adoption official by Christmas."

"Why so long?"

"It's a load of bureaucratic necessities that need to be met," Jaedynn said. "After Uncle Kevin explained everything, I consider a wait of a few months pretty fortunate."

"And how do you think this will go over when Alex finds out?"

"He no longer has any rights with regards to the boys," Jaedynn said. "He never signed their birth certificates much less named them and he put no effort into obtaining custody. After what happened at court, any attempts to gain custody at this point would be thrown out. So if Alex wants to complain, he'll be complaining to a brick wall."

"You mean Gloria?"

Jaedynn tried not to laugh, "Don't be mean. I'd wanted to invite her to Christmas but she and her parents can't get the time off, so we'll go visit for New Years so Kamron and Raphael can see each other. Hopefully by then we'll be able to pick up Mikie, Don and Leo."

"You're nuts," Ivory said.

"Ashti will be here to help and if it's too much, we'll hire a nanny," Jaedynn said.

"So was it your plan to turn into the Brady Bunch?" Ivory asked and Jaedynn started laughing. "I know I'm hilarious but I wasn't exactly trying to be funny."

"I just hadn't thought of that," Jaedynn said. "Honestly, if that's how it turns out, I'll be happy for it."

"I'll just stick with my wonderful husband and unconditional love of my dog, thank you," Ivory said.

"Ow," Jaedynn started and her head fell back.

"Another contraction?"

"Yeah," Jaedynn said.

"You brought this on yourself, sis," Ivory said.

"Thank you, Ivory; you're moral support is unsurpassed," Jaedynn said sarcastically as she waited out this latest contraction.

As Jaedynn had figured, she didn't deliver that day. Ivory stayed until late that evening but promised she'd be back the next day after she got off work. The next day, August 6th, Jaedynn's contractions intensified and Kyle was called to come into the city as soon as possible. By the time he arrived, Jaedynn was in the bedroom and the bed was completely covered and protected. She'd wanted a water birth as she'd done with Kamron and Iman, but given she was delivering twins, Kyle needed Jaedynn above water and on the bed in case anything went wrong and Kyle needed to act suddenly. He'd already contacted the hospital in their area, so if there was an emergency they could get additional help right away. Thankfully, though, the birth went smoothly as could be expected. Kyle monitored Jaedynn closely and her parents were downstairs ready to meet the new additions.

In the afternoon, she was finally able to start pushing and Navid was born. Kyle caught Navid and handed him over to Jaedynn so she and Roshad could see him. He was the image of his father. Ashti saw it too and were she able to, she would have begun crying. Ashti took Navid to clean him up and felt as though she were holding Roshad all over again. He was just a little paler like Jaedynn. With Navid otherwise occupied, Kyle had Jaedynn shift her focus back to delivering the second baby. Eventually, she delivered their daughter Scheherazade – or Sherry as she would be known and she looked just like her brother. Once again Kyle brought the baby to Jaedynn's chest so she and Roshad could see her before Kyle swooped her away after Roshad had cut the cord. Sherry was cleaned, put in a swaddling blanket and handed over to Ashti who brought the babies downstairs to meet everyone while Kyle helped Jaedynn through the last of the birth. Several hours later, they were able to put the baby's names down: Navid Amir Javadi and Scheherazade Ada Javadi.

"There's a face I've not seen in centuries," Bastet said once it was his turn to hold Navid.

"He looks just like Roshad did," Rashida smiled as she was holding Iman who was investigating the new baby. Kamron had already looked at Navid and was now looking at Sherry who Ada María was holding. "His middle name is Amir?"

"Yes, I recall him saying that," Bastet said. "He reminds me a little of Amir. Remember? He'd looked near identical to Roshad too."

"He'd had his mother's eyes," Rashida said. "Little Navid has his father's eyes."

"He certainly will if they stay hazel," Bastet said. "Sherry's are hazel as well are they not?"

"I'm not sure; she's not opened her eyes for me yet," Ada María said.

When she finally did open her eyes again after taking a nap, Sherry did indeed have hazel eyes just like her twin brother. At the moment, the nursery was only prepared for Navid's and Sherry's use so as soon as they were able to, Roshad and Jaedynn went out to buy three more cribs. Iman and Kamron had their own rooms while the babies would be sharing a nursery that was closest to Roshad's and Jaedynn's bedroom. Once all the kids were old enough, there would be bedroom rearranging but for now Kamron and Iman would have their own rooms while one room would be assigned as a nursery. And with the twins as well as the three little boys on the way, Ashti wasn't returning to Iran any time soon. Bastet and Rashida eventually returned to Tehran and Roshad promised he'd come back on a business trip but only after Mikie, Don and Leo were officially adopted and brought home.

Raphael's Christening was finally set up for September the 21st and while Gloria wanted to invite Roshad and Jaedynn, she knew they wouldn't attend. She sent them invitations anyway to let them know she was thinking of them but even if the likelihood of Alex being there was little to nothing, they wouldn't want to chance it. Jaedynn and Roshad responded as Gloria figured they would, regrettably stating they could not attend, but they did send Raphael plenty of gifts ranging from toys and clothes to absolute necessities the most appreciated of which were diapers. Gloria sent Alex an invitation and called him the day before – Alex having finally gotten a landline though only after Gloria had 'nagged him to death' as he put it. However she had to leave him a message and was left to assume he would not be attending.

"I don't know why you're upset. I'd think Alex not being there is a good thing," Danni said as they were getting dressed for church.

"I'm not upset because I want him there. I'm upset because it's his son's Christening and he should be there. He makes such a fuss over seeing Raphael and getting to be with him but when I'm the one extending the olive branch he magically disappears. The sooner he realizes being a father isn't all about him, the better off we'll all be," Gloria vented. She was dressed much nicer than she normally would be for church and was getting Raphael in his little Christening gown.

"That's too much to ask of a deadbeat," Danni said.

When they arrived at the church, Alex wasn't there and he still wasn't there when it was time to perform the baptism. Gloria was livid with Alex but she did her best to enjoy the day and held Raphael while the priest put water over his tiny head. After it was all done, the guests retreated to a restaurant that offered an enormous room where friends and family could dance and have a good time: another gift from Roshad for Raphael's Christening. Alex never showed up and after the party, Gloria was seeing red. She eventually called Jaedynn when she'd calmed down enough to talk civilly and confided in her but more importantly thanked her and Roshad for helping her make Raphael's Christening so special even if they couldn't be there in person. She didn't end up seeing Alex again until the following Tuesday and she gave him a piece of her mind when she did. All the while, Kevin and his legal team continued working on making the adoption for Mikie, Leo and Don legal and, as she'd promised, Gloria said nothing. It didn't take much either. She wasn't sure what upset her more: the fact that Alex had seemingly all but forgotten about his three other sons or, if she told him what was going on, that he'd only care because of who was adopting them.

September and, of course, October were the hardest months for Ahiga. He'd already been training when he'd gotten the news in July, but with only two more months to prepare, he was completely engrossed. He was strict with his diet, he was weighed weekly to make sure he was staying at the right weight to compete and he was training daily. By the time he got home these days, he was so tired that he'd just plop into bed. He'd shower the next morning then go to work and start over again, but he was happy. Nesia would only see him at nights and the afternoons on the weekends, but it was alright because he was happy; happier than ever in fact. It was decided, since the Tistilal children were being sent back home and given a week's vacation in light of the fight, that school for the tribe would be out. That did mean extra work for the students so they wouldn't be behind, but everyone was really excited.

When it was finally the week of Halloween, the kids going to Arizona were on buses and driven back to their tribe so they could visit family. It was an appreciated extra visit for the kids and their families and then Friday when the fight was scheduled to happen, everyone that was going into the city would be there to watch. There was even a fundraiser that had been held by the tribe to raise enough money so everyone that wanted to go could see the fight. Oscar and Travis helped in Phoenix while Oliver got a set up in Tucson. Ahiga, Nesia and Haseya flew into Phoenix on Thursday and Ahiga weighed in that same evening so he'd have time to replenish before the fight the next night. That night, Ahiga was really nervous. Before, he was high on adrenaline and just excited but then the knowledge his whole family (whole tribe really) would be watching, that he'd not entered but been invited and that it was his home state began to really sink in.

"Why don't I get a hot bath going?" Nesia asked Ahiga once he'd made it to the hotel room following his weigh in and quick dinner.

"That sounds amazing right now," Ahiga said and stretched his arms a little trying to relieve the tension. A few minutes later, Ahiga went into the bathroom with Nesia, stripped down and got into the tub. Once he was in there, Nesia undressed and got her feet into the tub and sat on the lip so she could start rubbing Ahiga's shoulders. Ahiga released an audible groan.

"Feel good?" Nesia asked and Ahiga nodded as his head fell forward so she could keep rubbing.

As Nesia was rubbing his shoulders, he felt himself getting sleepier and sleepier. When he was on the verge of falling asleep, she gently pulled him back so his head was resting against her knees with his head back and her hands trailed down his chest. Then she started rubbing his head gently to sooth him further. When his body became heavy from him falling asleep, she left him alone letting him lay against her to sleep but she woke him up when she noticed his fingers start to prune.

"Five more minutes," Ahiga mumbled when Nesia was gently massaging his shoulders again to wake him.

"We've been in the tub for nearly an hour," Nesia said. "The water's already cold." Ahiga groaned a little and sat up before getting out of the tub along with Nesia. They dried off, went back to the bedroom and got dressed for bed. "What time do you need to be up tomorrow?"

"I can sleep in until nine but after that I need to get to the gym and prepare," Ahiga said and sat on the edge of the bed. Nesia got onto the bed and sat behind him giving him a hug.

"Boss was able to show me footage from a few fights this guy has been in," Ahiga said. "He's really good."

"Good. Challenge makes the victory sweeter," Nesia said and kissed his neck. "Don't worry, Ahiga. You'll do great."

"Will I win, though?"

"I know you can," Nesia said, "but only you can make that happen."

"You're right," Ahiga said and placed a hand on Nesia's thigh behind him. "I found out he's going to be in Day of the Dead make up. It's this face paint that makes you look like a skull."

"Fitting for the time of year," Nesia said. "Are they making you do the same?"

"No," Ahiga said. "They're assuming he'll win and I think they want it to look theatrical."

"How exciting will it be then when you win?" Nesia said. "Don't let him intimidate you."

"I won't," Ahiga said. "Boss made sure you, mom, Oliver and Oscar will have seats at the front."

"I know; he told me," Nesia said and pressed another kiss to his neck. "Let's get to bed. You've got a big day tomorrow."

Ahiga nodded and they got into bed together cuddling to one another. When Nesia woke the next morning, Ahiga was already out of bed and getting ready to leave. He gave her a kiss, said he'd see her that night and then left to go to the gym with Boss and Freddie so he could get ready. In Washington, the Cullens had the living area in their home arranged to accommodate everyone that would be coming and there was food prepared. Ada María, Gabriel and Ariel had to be at the bar but made sure there was a TV set up so they could see the fight. They'd told everyone they were doing this, so that evening before the fight, the bar was absolutely packed with people from the lumber mill who wanted to see Ahiga fight. In Phoenix, Oliver and Oscar made sure everyone got into the city, bought their tickets and by the time all the spectators were in the arena, half were fans rooting for Luis Vieira and another half was rooting for Ahiga. Those there to root for Luis were in Day of the Dead makeup. It looked like a crowd of skulls and colorful flowers. As a precursor to the fight, there were luchadors in the ring engaging in a colorful display of choreographed fighting. When Nesia and Haseya arrived, they found Oliver, Oscar and Travis and took the seats near them waiting for the fight to begin.

"How's Ahiga feeling?" Oscar asked Nesia once she and Haseya were seated.

"He's nervous, but he's not letting it affect him," Nesia said and took a look around. "Is this the whole tribe?"

"Not everyone, but most of them," Oliver said. "Some of the flock had to stay behind but most are here. Are you the only ones here from Washington?"

"Yeah, but everyone else is watching it on Pay Per View," Nesia said. "They planned a whole party around this fight."

"No pressure," Oscar said with a chuckle. Meanwhile in the locker room that Ahiga was assigned, he was with Boss and Freddie getting ready.

"Alright, Ahiga," Boss said, "This is it: your big shot. You win this, you'll win $5,000, notoriety and you'll have beaten the best Middle Weight fighter of the American Southwest."

"Right," Ahiga said as his foot was fidgeting.

"Don't think about any of the people out there," Freddie said. "You just focus on your opponent. Once you're in that ring, you and Luis are the only ones that exist. Focus on him and getting him down. You can do this, Ahiga."

"Hey," a man said as he opened the door and stepped into the locker room, "fight starts in ten minutes so be ready to walk out. I'll come get you when its time."

"Thanks," Boss said and the man stepped out.

Nesia and the others waited for the fight to finally start. She'd not said anything to him, but she was really nervous. This meant a lot to Ahiga and he wanted so badly to win. He deserved to win. She just hoped Ahiga would truly prove the better fighter and win the day. She had confidence he would, but there was still that chance. Finally, an announcer came on, but he was speaking Spanish which surprised her. The crowd went silent as the announcer spoke, but an eruption of cheers filled the arena when Luis Vieira's name was announced and he started walking out to the ring, his image on the big screen as he approached. He wore Day of the Dead face paint like most others of his fans and his trunks were black and red. Once he entered the ring, the announcer spoke again but he was still speaking Spanish. Nesia looked towards the locker room area as did the others waiting until they heard the announcer yell Ahiga Washington. When he did, Nesia and the others cheered just as loud and watched as Ahiga came out with Boss and Freddie following behind. His trunks were navy blue with orange stripes, reminiscent of the Arizona state flag. Ahiga looked right at Nesia and she waived at him. He waived back with a smile and Nesia blew him a kiss for emphasis which made him laugh a little, managing to calm his nerves. He got into the ring and once the referee was in the ring, the two approached one another with the referee in the middle.

"Alright gentlemen, let's give the crowd a good fight. Thirty rounds, winner gets $5000. Judges are behind me. Are you both ready?"

"Yes," Ahiga and Luis both said.

"Good," the referee said and stepped away while Ahiga and Luis got into position waiting for the bell.

Finally the bell rang and the crowd stayed mostly quiet as they watched the fight. Luis threw the first punch and was aggressive right off the bad. He also hit like a dump truck which Ahiga wasn't expecting. He recovered and continued to block until an opening finally came and he punched Luis clear across the face. Thankfully, Ahiga's punch was harder and he made Luis recoil, but he quickly recovered and didn't let the jab slow him down. When the first match ended, they parted and went to their respective sides of the ring to relax before the next round.

"He has a really hard punch," Ahiga said after he had some water and Boss was dabbing his head with a towel.

"He's not called the best in the south for nothing, kid," Boss said.

"You did good, but you need to push him," Freddie said. "He almost got the better of you in that round. You've had a chance to feel him out so now's the time to go on the offensive."

"Got it," Ahiga said and then stood back up to get into the ring.

The bell rang again starting the next round and Luis came in swinging again, but this time Ahiga was prepared. He blocked Luis's punches, let him get tired and then went on his own assault. Ahiga had the stamina to go on for a long time and while Luis blocked initially Ahiga was able to break the man's guard and throw in a few punches before Luis started backing away. Luis's fans were on the edge of their seats the whole round. When it was the end of that round, they went to their corners to rest for the permitted 30 seconds. Boss and Freddie praised Ahiga for his aggression and encouraged him to keep it up but to also know when he needed to back off and rest for a bit.

The 3rd round started and this time, both men were cautious at first. Ahiga didn't want to be the first to lay a punch right off the bat knowing that's exactly what Luis was hoping for. Several seconds passed of the two of them feeling each other out until Ahiga threw the first punch of the round. Luis took advantage and threw his own punch, but Ahiga blocked with his left arm and with that same arm landed a punch on Luis's abdomen making him step back until he could finally recover. Nesia and those on her side of the arena cheered while those on the other side were yelling for Luis to fight harder.

Round three ended, they rested, then round four came. Then round five, six, seven and eight. They were both pushing each other to their limits landing punches and blocking with excellent foot work and intense concentration. In round nine, Ahiga laid down an especially brutal assault while Luis kept his arms up in defense. Then he managed to kneel slightly, land a punch on Ahiga's stomach and then land another punch on his neck. Ahiga couldn't breathe for a second but he ignored it and got himself straightened out. He heard Nesia's shocked gasp and that spurred him on. Instead of backing off like Luis was hoping, Ahiga threw a punch that landed right on Luis's nose and it actually made him fall back. His crowd went nuts and he could hear people yelling his name: he didn't even care that some called him Owen. He was in the moment. Ahiga waited for Luis to get up and they danced around the ring for a moment before the bell rang, ending round 9.

"That was fantastic, Ahiga," Boss said and toweled down Ahiga's face. A big bruise was already forming on his neck but the adrenaline rendered the pain negligible.

Once round 10 started, they both got back in the ring and the fight proceeded. Ahiga noticed Luis was starting to get tired. He was pushing through it but Ahiga wanted to make Luis waste his energy. So for three rounds, Ahiga went on the defense, making Luis use up all his energy. Eventually, though, Luis seemed to realize what Ahiga was doing and went on the defense as well, so Ahiga got aggressive again. The crowd watched as the two of them seemed to take turns forcing the other to run out of steam. Ahiga knew if he kept on like this, there was a chance he might not win. He knew a few of the rounds had definitely gone to Luis but he didn't know how many. He didn't want to chance the number of them outweighing his own wins. So come round twenty, Ahiga went into full force. Luis did the same and the two of them fought as hard as one another and each crowd was cheering them on. In Washington, all those watching the fight on TV were glued to the screen, watching Ahiga closely and screaming at the screen as though he might hear them.

It came to round twenty five and they'd both given as good as they got. Ahiga was running out of time. He needed to go all in or not at all. So Ahiga gave Luis two rounds to tire out, letting him go on the offensive. Then round twenty seven came. Ahiga backed off at first and they went around the ring with Luis trying to get close enough to land a punch. Just as Luis was starting to back off, Ahiga went into action. Luis blocked his face, so Ahiga aimed for his stomach, then Luis's chest once there was an opening. Then finally, with all the strength he could muster, he launched his fist up under Luis's chin and made the man fly backward and onto his back. Nesia and the others cheered and those in Washington watching on TV cheered jubilantly. Luis didn't get knocked out, though. He was still wide away and trying to get up. There was time left in the round, so Ahiga waited until the man was up and back in position before he went back on the offensive. Luis tried to do the same, but Ahiga's punch had left him feeling dizzy and his footwork wasn't as pristine. Ahiga got one more punch in that made Luis fall back and land against the ropes, but the bell rang ending the round and Ahiga couldn't take advantage of it.

"You're doing amazing, Ahiga. Only three more rounds so keep giving him hell," Freddie said.

Ahiga didn't answer, focusing on catching his breath and keeping his eyes on Luis. The man was clearly exhausted but he wasn't angry. Instead when the two of them looked at each other, Luis smiled and Ahiga smiled back. The bell rang starting round 28 and they got back in the ring. Luis pulled out all the stops and went on the offensive, but Ahiga didn't back down. He just fought back. He knew that if he didn't do something impressive, Luis could win just off home team advantage and Ahiga wasn't willing to let that happen. The two fought to tire one another out, but Ahiga wasn't getting tired. He was running on adrenaline and it made him feel invincible. This kept going until it was the 30th and final round. This was his last chance to take the fight indisputably. Luis was of the same mind it seemed because he fought just as hard. The two landed punches on one another at the same time, but Ahiga was faster with his follow up and punched Luis across the face making the man fall back again, but not throw him off his feet. Ahiga came forward, punched Luis in the chest and finally the man fell back. This time, he just didn't have the strength to get back up, but he tried. However, by the time he was back on his feet, the bell rang, ending the round and ending the fight. The crowd cheered but went silent as the judges were tallying the score. In the meantime, Ahiga and Luis went to their respective corners.

Nesia was still standing waiting for the result. She was actually shaking now and Haseya wrapped an arm around Nesia's shoulder. However she was just as nervous as Nesia. Everyone in that arena, everyone watching at home or in the bar in Washington were on the edge of their seats waiting. Ada María, Gabriel and Ariel were staring at the screen as were their patrons just waiting. One could hear a pin drop in that arena. Finally, the referee was given the results and the belt so he waived for Ahiga and Luis to come into the center of the ring. Luis's previously clean face paint was smeared and bloodied up, distorting the image of the skull that was originally portrayed. Ahiga's heart was pounding, starting to get nervous again. He was starting to feel the bruise on his neck now and he was feeling everything else too. The referee took both of them by the wrist and paused for effect. Finally, the referee rose his hand taking Ahiga's wrist with, presenting Ahiga as the winner. Ahiga's family and tribesman screamed and cheered. In Washington, the crowd in the bar cheered so loudly it was heard around the neighborhood and the Cullen house rumbled from the excitement of everyone. Ahiga's ears focused on listening for Nesia which was nearly impossible from the roar of the crowd, but he managed to hear her screech of approval. He felt on top of the world. The referee let Ahiga's hand down and secured the large belt around Ahiga's waist.

"Good fight," Luis said to Ahiga.

"It was a great fight," Ahiga said and Luis smiled in response before the two of them actually hugged before Luis walked back and out of the ring.

Ahiga turned so he was facing the side of the arena where his family and tribesmen were and lifting his arms up in victory, earning another round of applause. Ahiga's eyes wandered until at last he saw Nesia, her brilliant smile shining at him and waiving her hands at him. This time, more than ever before, she took his breath away. There was pride beaming in her eyes and she looked as though she couldn't wait to hug him and congratulate him. He couldn't wait either, but he wanted so much more. He wanted her so badly, worse than he'd ever wanted her before. He felt proud of himself, but most of all, he felt worthy and it was a damn good feeling. Boss and Freddie directed for Ahiga to get out of the ring and he was swarmed by reporters. Some were English speaking while others were Spanish and those he would answer and his response would be translated by the reporter who would look into the camera as he did so. Normally Nesia would wait for the crowd to clear but she couldn't wait this time. She pushed her way through the reporters and went straight to Ahiga. Once he saw her approaching, Ahiga turned his attention entirely to her and had his arms opened to her. They embraced and Ahiga all but forgot about the reporters that were surrounding them.

"You did it, Ahiga," Nesia said as she hugged him, "you did great up there."

"I did, didn't I?" Ahiga said with a smile. He lifted his head enough so he could press a kiss to her lips, continuing to completely ignore the cameras. Then he pulled his lips away and looked into her eyes. When he did, another desire overwhelmed him and took over before he could think about it first. "Will you marry me?"

"What?" Nesia asked, taken completely off guard.

"Will you marry me?" Ahiga asked again. After he'd asked the question without thinking, he realized he'd still completely meant it. "Here, in Washington, hell in Vegas – anywhere. Will you marry me?"

"Oh my God," Nesia whimpered but nodded, "Yes. Yes, I'll marry you."

They started kissing again and the whole thing was recorded and was even being broadcasted on the big screen in the arena. The microphones had not been close enough to catch the sound so those in Washington didn't hear Ahiga's proposal but the reporters made the announcement that Ahiga Washington had proposed to a woman that approached him from the crowd and she'd said yes. Those in the bar and at the Cullen house cheered anew at the announcement. Ahiga was able to eventually collect his check from his win and Oscar told him to come to the tribe the next day so they could have a proper celebration both for the victory and a little engagement party. Ahiga definitely wanted to celebrate, but he had something very specific in mind. He agreed they would all have breakfast in the morning before driving to the tribe and when they could finally get away, Ahiga took Nesia up to their hotel room, barged in and slammed the door behind him and took Nesia to the bed.

"I can't believe you can still move after tonight," Nesia said through light laughter.

"I'll be lucky if I can get out of bed tomorrow morning, so we'd better take advantage," Ahiga said. He was already pulling off Nesia's jean shorts taking her panties along with them and he pulled off her shoes and socks as well when he reached her ankles. "I'm sorry I don't have a bracelet to give you," he said and started kissing her ankles, "but I'll give you one soon; I promise."

"It can wait," Nesia smiled and pulled off her shirt and bra. She came forward so she could pull Ahiga on top of her and pulled off his shirt. He still wore the belt and trunks from the fight as well as his shoes. He kicked off his shoes and socks and was about to take off the belt, but Nesia stopped him. "No, leave the belt on. You earned it and I want to reward my champion."

Ahiga didn't respond in words. He answered by pulling Nesia's hips off the side of the bed and kneeling before her. As she giggled from the sudden shift and movement, Ahiga went down between her legs and started by nipping her thighs to make her squeal a little. Then he went into her hips to the apex of her entrance pressing his tongue against her clitoris and using his teeth to gently brush over the bundle of nerves and elicit a shiver of pleasure from her. Nesia laced her fingers into his hair urging him along and her head fell back as she moaned his name. He kept moving his tongue over the bundle and brought a hand between her legs slipping his fingers inside her to intensify the pleasure. His tongue and fingers brought her closer and closer to her release sending her into a tizzy. She felt like led yet light as a feather and when she reached the collapsing force of her climax, she cried out in a moan.

Ahiga eased her down before kissing a trail up her body to her neck. Nesia used her toes to tug his trunks down and released his erection. He pushed Nesia further onto the bed and climbed on top of her, then positioned her so he could slip inside her. Not wanting it to irritate her skin from him moving, Ahiga stayed upright kneeling on the bed as he started to thrust. He felt like a mad man and wouldn't have it any other way. He moved his hips in a swift pace that he gradually increased until he had to stop to catch his breath, but the moment he did, he kept moving. The tension was starting to build again for Nesia and she held onto Ahiga like a lifeline.

When they'd been like that for several minutes, Ahiga stopped, pulled out and grabbed a hold of her so he could get Nesia on her knees but he didn't re-enter her right away. He instead got off the bed pulling her with him. She fell onto her stomach on the mattress and were she not so excited, it would have made her laugh. She planted her feet firmly on the floor while Ahiga remained behind her. She yelped when Ahiga spanked her and moaned when he slipped back inside her. She fell over initially but soon got her hands on the mattress to keep herself upright as Ahiga started thrusting again. He pounded her harder and harder until she fell onto the mattress all over again with her cheek pressing into the comforter. She was getting closer and closer to her release and told him so but when she did, he pulled out again and made her whimper his name.

Ahiga lifted her to stand upright, turned her around and grabbed a hold of her thighs and lifted her up so she had her legs wrapped around his waist. He walked until he had Nesia pressed against the wall and slipped back in as soon as she was secured. Nesia clutched onto him with her arms around his neck and they kissed as Ahiga moved. This time Ahiga didn't stop. She was getting closer and closer and she pulled her lips away so she could breathe easier and moaned his name. The closer she came, the tighter her hold on him became until she finally achieved orgasm, crying against his shoulder to muffle her sounds of pleasure. Ahiga's pace stayed the same until, with just moments to spare, he pulled out and put Nesia on her feet about to turn her around, but she got on her knees, grabbed a hold of his erection and stroked until he reached his release, all of it getting on her neck, chest and breasts. Ahiga barely managed to stay upright, planting his hand against the wall while another hand was laced through Nesia's hair. She stood back up and gently guided Ahiga to the bed pushing him back so he landed on the mattress.

Only when Ahiga fell back on the mattress did he realize how tired her was. He was already dozing off as Nesia got the belt off him so he could sleep comfortably. He adjusted so he could get under the covers while Nesia went to get herself cleaned up. When she returned, she got under the covers along with him and leaned over to turn off the lights. Ahiga took a hold of her and hugged her tight.

"I love you," Ahiga said.

"I love you too," Nesia moaned.

The next morning, they had breakfast with Boss and Freddie. As he figured he would be, Ahiga was extremely sore the next morning. He felt as though he'd been hit by a bus and getting out of bed was an ordeal, but it was all worth it when he saw his belt. Freddie and Boss got to the airport to go back right away while Nesia, Ahiga and Haseya made the long drive to the tribe with Oscar and Travis where they were met by a giant feast. Since he was able to relax for a bit before he'd have to cut again, Ahiga enjoyed more rattle snake stew and scorpions than he'd ever eaten before. It had been so long since he'd had rattle snake stew or scorpions, so it was that much better. When they returned to Washington that Sunday evening, they'd returned home right away needing to get some sleep before they had to return to business as usual. When Ahiga went to work the next day, it was to pats on the back and congratulations and then disappointment that he'd not brought his belt into work.

It wasn't until the following weekend, but Nesia and Ahiga finally went to Kyle to have their moon ceremony. Neither of them wanted a really big or complicated wedding: just a moon ceremony, a wedding on the beach and three days completely undisturbed. Ahiga gave her a traditional woven band, nothing crazy or especially complicated, and Nesia loved it. After the ceremony was performed, it was determined that for greatest happiness they needed to marry under the quarter moon which gave them a few days to plan and make arrangements with work.

"I got a copy of our piece in Home and Garden," Heather said to Embry as he was coming into his office late one afternoon. He'd just gotten back from a job and was ready to go home, have a beer and relax in bed.

"How is it?" Embry asked.

"It's a hit," Heather smiled and handed it over to him. The article gave the office information, his name as the owner, gushed over it being a family business as well as pictures from a number of their recent jobs they'd completed both for businesses and for private homes. There was even a portion of the article devoted to interviewing Alphonse Heidelberg and telling of his experience with Embry building his dream house basically from scratch.

"You know," Embry said, "for how much money they wanted to publish our story, I'm glad they did a good job of it."

"I promise you, Embry, because of this we'll make that money back and then some," Heather smiled. "And with Uncle Alphonse giving you a glowing review in such a big magazine, I'd say you'll get a few more out of state jobs. Maybe in California to boot."

"Some Hollywood power couple that wants their dream house in the Hills?"

"You bet," Heather said and walked over to him. "You could build the prettiest mansion in Beverly Hills for Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton."

"Aren't they divorced?"

"They were, but they got remarried this year," Heather said.

"We'll see how long that lasts," Embry chuckled. "So are you excited for Nesia's and Ahiga's wedding?"

"Of course," Heather said. "They've been living together long enough – it's about time they got married." Then Heather started to approach Embry. "Speaking of which," she started and then wrapped her arms around him and he wrapped an arm around her shoulders. "I want to get married next summer."

"Setting a date?" Embry smiled and kissed the top of her head. "I guess waiting for the weather to be cooperative is a fruitless endeavor."

"It's proved to be so far," Heather said. "I'll tell mom so we can get me fitted in the family dress. I just hope that won't be uncomfortable on the beach."

"Would you rather wear a different dress?"

"Absolutely not," Heather said. "I want to wear my mother's lavender dress."

"Alright," Embry smiled and leaned his head down to kiss her lips. Their kiss lasted several seconds before Heather pulled her lips away and then let go of Embry.

"Do you have any more sites to go to today?"

"No, I'm done for the day," Embry said. "I was planning to get a few things done here then go home and have a beer."

"That sounds great actually," Heather said. "Would you like some company?"

"I'd love some company," Embry said with a smile. "I don't have to be on site until eight tomorrow – do you want to spend the night?"

"Sure," Heather said and glanced at the clock. "Office closes in ten minutes; how about I make dinner?"

"What's for dinner?" Embry asked.

"I'll decide once I've looked in the fridge," Heather said and went on her toes to give Embry a quick kiss. "I'll see you at your place."

"See you there," Embry said and patted Heather's butt before she walked out of his office.

She went to her house first to get a change of clothes. Kevin and Amber were still out of the house but the twins were home doing their homework. She told them to tell their parents she was at Embry's house and would be staying the night before walking out and going to Embry's place. She checked his fridge and looked for anything she could use to make dinner. She'd found some ground beef, tinned tomatoes and spaghetti and decided to make a lazy spaghetti with meat sauce. When Embry returned home, he followed the smell to the kitchen and wrapped his arms around Heather just after she'd put all the cooked pasta into the meat sauce.

"Dinner smells great," Embry said.

"It's about done; can you set the table?" Heather asked.

"Alright," Embry said, kissed her head then released her so he could get out some plates and forks.

Once they were seated and their food platted, they relaxed and talked about their days. It was a usual scene for them: having dinner together after work and enjoying their evening with pleasant conversation. While they talked, Heather would bring her foot to his and trail her toes over his foot and ankle which Embry would reciprocate. After dinner, they sat on the couch together watching the news while Heather did her nails with her legs blanketed over Embry's lap so he could trail his hands up and down her legs while he was engrossed with recent events. It was a dull evening and it was just the way they both liked it. Before going to bed the two of them showered together, pleasuring one another within the shower stall but did not make love until they were in bed together. The following morning, Heather went to the office while Embry went to a job site. When Heather returned home that night, Kevin was home and in his office working on some things while the twins were getting their homework done.

"Hey daddy," Heather said as she came into the house.

"Hey, honey," Kevin said then looked up, "how was work?"

"Great," Heather said, "Did you see the article in Home and Garden?"

"Yeah, your mother showed me," Kevin said. "Good job on that one."

"Thanks," Heather smiled. "So is mom still at the shop?"

"No, she's at your grandma's," Kevin said.

"Is grandma doing okay?"

"She's the same," Kevin said.

"Oh," Heather said solemnly and approached Kevin's office. "I was hoping I could talk to mom about her dress. Embry and I want to set a date for next summer."

"Weather be damned?" Kevin asked with a light smile.

"Yeah," Heather said, "weather be damned. We'll get a giant canopy if we have to."

"I'll talk to Kyle and your grandpa – maybe we can have a Quileute ceremony somewhere that can accommodate a fire pit or something," Kevin said.

"No, I want it on the beach," Heather said. "Besides, you and mom need to focus your funds on Tristan's and Lilli's mitzvahs."

"Don't remind me," Kevin said and rubbed his face. "I don't know if your mom will be coming home today. I'd suggest waiting until later to ask her about the dress."

"Okay," Heather said. "Maybe I can go over to grandma's house. A wedding might brighten grandma's spirits."

"Maybe," Kevin said. "I've got a lot of work to do, so you go on without me. Tristan, Lilli, is your homework done?"

"Sure is!" Tristan said.

"Tristan, don't lie!" Lilli said. "We've still got some left, daddy."

"Thank you for your honesty, Lilli," Kevin said. "When the two of you are done, go on to grandma's house for dinner."

"Okay," Lilli said. Heather left the house and walked over to her grandmother's house. Amber was already in the kitchen making some dinner while her grandma was sitting down listening to the radio.

"Oma?" Heather said and Anna looked up towards the door.

"Kann ich dir helfen, Liebes? Amber, wir haben einen Kunden!" (Can I help you, dear? Amber, we have a customer!) Anna said.

"Einen Moment, Mama," (One moment, mom) Amber answered and left the kitchen to come to Heather. This had become the norm, yet it still hurt to hear her grandma refer to her as 'Customer'. "Afternoon, honey. How was work?"

"Work was fine," Heather said and glanced at Anna. "How's grandma feeling?"

"The same," Amber said and brought Heather inside to the kitchen. "Are you staying to eat dinner?"

"Yeah," Heather said. "I actually came over because I wanted to ask about your dress. Embry and I want to set a date to get married next summer."

"That's great," Amber smiled. "Mama! Heather und Embry werden nächsten Sommer heiraten. Wir müssen sie in das Kleid passen lassen." (Mom! Heather and Embry will be getting married next summer. We need to get her fitted in the dress.)

"Amber, dieses Kleid ist ein Familienerbstück - dieses Kleid ist für Ihre Hochzeit und die Hochzeit Ihrer Tochter reserviert," (Amber, that dress is a family heirloom – that dress is reserved for your wedding and your daughter's wedding) Anna said and the words stung really bad. Amber walked to the couch and sat down beside Anna.

"Mama, ich habe schon geheiratet und das Kleid getragen. Jetzt ist deine Enkelin Heather an der Reihe," (Mom, I already got married and wore that dress. Now it's your granddaughter Heather's turn) Amber said and presented photos from hers and Kevin's wedding and some pictures of Heather. Sometimes that would bring Anna back to the present though sometimes it didn't. Thankfully, today it did.

"Oh, richtig Amber. Ich weiß nicht, wohin meine Gedanken gingen," (Right Amber. I don't know where my mind went) Anna said. "Das Kleid sollte in meinem Schlafzimmer sein." (The dress should be in my bedroom)

"Ich werde schauen," (I'll check) Amber said and went upstairs with Heather following after her. They went to the closet and found the large bag the dress was being kept safe it. "I'll ask Alice to get this like new again. Hopefully it won't need too many alterations."

"Hopefully," Heather said as Amber unzipped the bag. The dress was as she remembered it last she'd seen it years ago. "Do you think Embry and I should have the wedding sooner?"

"Why?"

"I want grandma to be there," Heather said. The air filled with an uncomfortable silence for a moment.

"Check with your uncle and make sure your cycle doesn't conflict with Nesia and Ahiga. If so, maybe we can do a double wedding. It would be in the best interest to not have the wedding in December," Amber said.

"I will," Heather said. "In that case, I'll check with Embry while I'm at it."

"Okay," Amber said. "Just bear in mind it might mean Levi and Evalynn can't come."

"I know," Heather said. "I'll go talk to Embry now, then." Heather walked back downstairs, gave Anna a kiss on the cheek and said goodbye to her before making the longer walk to Embry's house. Thankfully, he was home but surprised to see her.

"Heather? Is everything okay? You look upset."

"A little if I'm honest," she said as she stepped into the house and Embry closed the door. "I went to grandma's house about the dress. When I walked in she told mom that a customer was at the door. Then I told mom you and I were setting a date and grandma said the dress was a family heirloom and needed to be worn by my mom and then her daughter."

"Heather," Embry said and hugged her, "you know she didn't mean any offense."

"I know she didn't," Heather said. "It's just hard. I don't know how much longer we have with her and I want her to be at the wedding. I wanted to talk to Uncle Kyle about us having the wedding this month."

"We'd better call him now then," Embry said.

They called Kyle and discussed the possibility of having their wedding this month. Thankfully their moons were not the same, but it would be extremely close: within two days of one another. After that, Embry and Heather talked about it and decided they wanted to have the wedding the following week. Sure, it wouldn't be a summer wedding like they'd originally planned, but if it meant ensuring her grandmother could see her get married, that was all that mattered to Heather. That also meant needing to try on the dress right away. Thankfully, it needed minimal alterations and more than anything needed restoration which Alice made quick work of. The day after deciding they were going to have the wedding that month, Heather called Evalynn and Levi letting them know her and Embry were getting married.

Ahiga's and Nesia's wedding would be first and it was set for Wednesday. Ahiga worked out another few days vacation time with work and since it was for a wedding and he still had vacation time to use up, it was approved. Oliver and Travis made their own arrangements with work to ensure they could be at Ahiga's wedding. Travis took a plane while Oscar and Oliver flew to Washington themselves and made it the morning of the wedding. Nesia was at Suerro's and Natalie's house to get ready. Eun Mi, Eun Mae and Mae Yon were there too to help with anything she needed help with but also just to give support. Ahiga was at JJ's house with Oscar, Oliver, Travis and all JJ's sons (except Jae Sun).

"So why the rush to get married so soon? Something you're not telling us?" Oliver teased after they'd arrived.

"No," Ahiga said but he started chuckling when he realized Oliver was joking. "I just want to get married. That day it was the first time I actually felt worthy of her. Maybe that's stupid."

"I don't think so," Travis said.

"You'd better make my little sister happy," JJ said. "Remember: I know where you live."

The group shared a small laugh, "I'll keep that in mind."

While the tribe was preparing the bonfire in the light drizzle, Nesia sat on her mom's porch for some chilled fresh air. She sat outside with Natalie, Eun Mi, Suerro and the twins just relaxing for a good chunk of the day. When she'd gone back inside closer to nightfall so they could sew her into the rabbit fur dress, she would glance at the fireplace where all Natalie's and Suerro's pictures were. Among them were pictures of her dad and it dampened her otherwise joyful mood. She missed Jae regardless but today especially she missed him.

"Mom?" Nesia said after they'd gotten her sewn into her dress, "do you think someone could hold a picture of daddy during the ceremony? I want to feel like he's here."

"Of course," Natalie said and kissed Nesia's cheek.

Nesia picked the picture she wanted Natalie to hold: the picture of Jae right before he was deployed. It was her last memory of her father. It was also one of her earliest memories. Nightfall finally came and it was time for Nesia to go outside. Everyone was already in front of the pyre waiting for her to get there. She stepped out onto the patio of her mom's and Suerro's house about to reach the stairs when she heard a bird singing. She glanced at the railings and there was Blu hopping up and down as he approached her.

"You here for my wedding, Blu?" Nesia asked with a smile.

Blu tweeted and flew onto her finger when she presented it to him. She giggled after Blu flapped his wings in excitement and then Blu flew away again. She watched Blu fly in the direction of the unlit pyre and Nesia finally started walking in the same direction. When she made it to the crowd of people, Ahiga was sitting before the collection of wood waiting for her. She noticed Freddie and Boss were even there among the guests, but she was grateful for their presence. After everything they'd done for Ahiga, she wanted them to be here. As she was passing everyone, she caught sight of Natalie holding Jae's picture in her hand just as Nesia had requested. She also noticed Blu was perched near the wood and it brought tears to her eyes. Nesia sat beside him and they smiled at one another and then Ahiga took Nesia's hand.

"I love you," Ahiga whispered to her.

"I love you too," Nesia replied.

The ceremony began once Nesia was there with Jacob and Kyle telling the story of their ancestors. They recounted the wolves that became human, that were the first of a mighty people and how Nesia and Ahiga would be continuing that legacy. Young women with infant sons performed a fertility dance after which Ahiga and Nesia lit the pyre signifying the beginning of their marriage. Blu flew away just as the pyre was lit to avoid the flames and then they and all their guests danced around the pyre. Later after they'd danced around the pyre for several minutes, Nesia and Ahiga signed their marriage license. She'd legalize it the moment she had the proper documentation to take to the Social Security Office and the DMV, but with her signature on that certificate, she became Nesia Washington. They stayed among the guests for a little while but it didn't last long. They wanted to be alone, so Nesia and Ahiga retreated back to their house together.

"How does it feel to be a married man?" Nesia asked once they'd stepped inside the house and closed the door behind them.

"Fucking amazing," Ahiga said and soon had her pressed against the door kissing her neck. Nesia's fingers went into his short hair and Ahiga tugged up her dress so he could then lift her up to wrap her legs around his waist. "I love you so much, Nesia," Ahiga said against her skin.

"I love you too, Ahiga," Nesia said with a gentle moan and then she moaned louder when his tongue trailed over a particularly sensitive spot on her neck. "Ahiga," she moaned again, "I've waited so long for this."

"I know," Ahiga said as he kept pulling the rabbit fur dress up and finally over her head. He tossed it to the side and lifted her up a little higher so he could start kissing a trail down her chest. "Thank you for everything," Ahiga said. "No matter what, you stood by me."

"Of course I did," Nesia said, "I love you."

Ahiga made it to her nipple and started to suck. Nesia whimpered as his tongue trailed around her nipple and she cried out when his teeth pinched her flesh. He lifted his head when Nesia was pulling the traditional shirt up his body and he took over to pull it over his head. He tossed the shirt to the side so it was resting right beside the dress. He lifted her up a little higher so he could pull the pants down enough so his erection sprang free. He shifted his attention to her other breast sucking on her nipple and nipping at the sensitive spot making her moan his name. He touched her entrance and once he knew she was ready, he slipped inside her and started to thrust, pressing her rough against the door over and over again.

"We'll go slower next time," Ahiga promised as he was moving. "I need you, Nesia. Sweet fuck, I need you."

Nesia whimpered and held onto Ahiga while he was moving. The faster he moved, the closer she came to her release. Nesia moved her fingers between them so she could help herself along until she reached her climax within minutes. Ahiga was close behind and suddenly pulled out just before he came, getting it all over her belly. Once he finished, he slipped back inside her rocking his hips against hers as they kissed for several minutes against their front door.

"Let's go upstairs," Nesia suggested after they'd remained in the entryway for some time just holding one another. Ahiga grunted and adjusted Nesia so he had a good hold of her then kicked off his shoes and pants so he could walk upstairs without issue. Ahiga laid Jaedynn on the bed but noticed Tina was curled up by the pillow.

"Scram, cat," Ahiga said and waived his hand at the cat. Tina didn't move. She was purring and opened her eyes a little to see what was happening then closed her eyes again once she determined there was nothing to be concerned about.

"Tina, baby, move aside," Nesia said then took a hold of Tina. She meowed and partially growled all at once and jumped off the bed once Nesia had put her down. Nesia went further onto the bed and Ahiga followed after her, pulling out the covers so they could snuggle under them. "I love you," Nesia said.

"I love you too," Ahiga answered. The two fell asleep together but come the following morning, they were wide awake and taking advantage of their three days of solitude.

Nesia took a moment in the morning to fold the rabbit fur dress and traditional clothes that she and Ahiga had worn and made sure they were at the front door ready for Kyle to take them so they could be worn for Embry's and Heather's wedding the following night. Unbeknownst to Heather, Levi and Evalynn met at the airport in New York and flew into Washington. Given Thanksgiving would be the following week, the two of them worked things out with their professors so they could stay through Thanksgiving. Embry, having been told about the surprise, picked up Evalynn and Levi from the airport and brought them to Kevin's house, dropping them off. No one was home when they arrived, but Lilliana and Tristan returned home first from school to see Levi and Evalynn on the couch watching TV together.

"Levi!" Tristan and Lilliana yelled and went to the couch to hug him.

"Well, I see I'm not worth greeting," Evalynn said and grabbed a hold of Lilliana in a tight hug. "You two are making me feel downright unwelcomed."

"You're welcomed, Evalynn," Lilliana said through her laughter. "Heather will be so happy to see you."

"At least someone will be," Evalynn laughed and squeezed Lilliana before releasing her. Tristan finally walked over and hugged Evalynn.

"Welcome home, Evalynn," Tristan said.

"It's good to be home. How've you been, you little Hell raiser?" Evalynn asked.

"I've been fine," Tristan said. "Are you guys staying through Thanksgiving?"

"Yeah, we're staying through Thanksgiving," Levi said. "It's a good excuse for extra time home since I'll only be here a few days for Christmas."

"You're not going to be here until New Year's?" Lilliana said.

"No; Nadja's flying out and we're spending New Year's together at dad's apartment," Levi said.

"Why can't she come here?" Lilliana asked.

"Because I want alone time with my girlfriend, Lilli, so get off my back," Levi said and started tickling Lilliana making her laugh. Then he swatted her back and released her. "Go ahead and get your homework done. Do you want me or Evalynn to help you?"

"Speak for yourself; I got all my homework done on the plane. I'm not working anymore the rest of the trip," Evalynn said.

"Okay, fine – do the two of you want me to help?" Levi asked.

"We'll be okay," Tristan said, already getting his things out of his backpack. Levi turned off the TV so Tristan and Lilliana could focus. They remained on the couch reading while the kids worked and finally, at around five, Heather returned to the house and saw Levi and Evalynn.

"Levi? Evalynn? Holy shit, you came!" Heather said and Evalynn stood up in time of Heather to hug her.

"Of course we came," Evalynn said. "I wouldn't miss your wedding for the world."

Heather gave Levi a hug too and the three of them caught up as they waited for Kevin to get back home. Amber returned to the house to grab Heather so she, Amber and Anna could make the drive to Forks to stay at the Cullen house. Given she was as good as Heather's Maid of Honor, Evalynn joined them while Levi stayed at home with Tristan, Lilliana and Kevin. Once they'd made it to the Cullen house, Heather and Evalynn retreated to one of the bedrooms so they could relax and catch up some more. As a last hoorah as it were, Evalynn and Heather painted each other's nails – an activity they'd not partaken in together in years.

"So why the rush with the wedding?" Evalynn asked after Heather had picked a color out of the rainbow Alice had at their disposal. "I thought you guys wanted a summer wedding."

"We did," Heather said, "but I don't know how much longer Oma has."

"Ah," Evalynn said and shook the bottle for a moment. "Has she gotten worse?"

"Mom keeps saying she's the same, but every time I go to visit she never remembers me: same with Levi and the twins. Sometimes pictures of us will jog her memory, other times it won't. I don't even know if she'll remember me when I'm walking down the aisle in her dress, but I'd never forgive myself if she weren't there. I've wasted enough time as it is and all on weather of all things."

"Hey, don't beat yourself up," Evalynn said. "I promise you when she sees you in her dress, she'll remember you."

"I hope so," Heather said and then stopped a tear from falling. "I hate seeing her like this."

"I know," Evalynn said soothingly, "but being at your wedding will make her happy. I know it will. And hey, if you really want, you can do what everyone else has been doing and have your Quileute ceremony then another wedding later."

"Maybe," Heather said. "So long as you'll still be my Maid of Honor."

"You know I will be," Evalynn said.

"You have to promise to make me your Maid of Honor when you get married," Heather teased.

"Heather, you know I'm never getting married," Evalynn said. "Maybe by tribal traditions, but that's about it. I don't imagine the US making gay marriage legal any time soon."

"Has Uncle Kyle kept you in the loop with what's going on with Shyann?"

"He has," Evalynn said. "Apparently she's gone and gotten herself a job. She got a job with that new coffee shop in town."

"Sounds like the type of job she'd want to get," Heather said. "Maybe she'll be at the wedding and you can say hi to her."

"I would think so. Daddy said that shop is only open in the morning. Have you seen her by chance? How is she?"

"I haven't seen her," Heather said, "but I haven't heard anything so I assume she's fine. You'll just have to catch up with her tomorrow."

"Yeah," Evalynn said. "Apparently she has a boyfriend."

"I would imagine," Heather said. Evalynn finished Heather's toe and handed the bottle to her so she could start painting Evalynn's toes. "I wouldn't worry about it too much though. From what I hear, she's gone through boyfriends like tissues."

"That's not terribly reassuring," Evalynn said.

"Come on; you know how it is when you're that age," Heather said. "In fact, I'm sure once she sees you again, she'll be head over heels."

"She wasn't exactly head over heels last we met," Evalynn said. "Then again, she was fourteen."

"So she'd be sixteen now, right?"

"Yeah, she's sixteen," Evalynn said. "Still far too young."

"Do you feel that way for her?"

"No," Evalynn said, "I doubt I will for a while. Honestly, were she not my imprint, I'd think she was a bit of a spoiled brat based on the updates daddy throws my way."

"I mean…you're not wrong," Heather said and the two laughed a little. "Honestly, I always pictured you ending up with a high powered business woman that's a women's rights activist in her free time."

Evalynn laughed a little under her breath, "I guess it's not in the cards for me."

"You're still seeing Jessica aren't you?"

"Yeah, more or less," Evalynn said with a shrug. "I think she may want to cut it off entirely though. I guess her old high school sweetheart's come crying to her after her husband filed for divorce and Jessica really wants to work things out with her."

"You're still friends with Caroline right?"

"Yeah," Evalynn said. "Her boyfriend proposed to her."

"Did he? What did Caroline say?"

"She said yes," Evalynn said. "So I'll be going to her wedding next year. They're planning to have the wedding in October."

"Isn't that in poor taste to have an ex at your wedding?"

"What he doesn't know won't hurt him," Evalynn shrugged. "I'm certainly not going to say anything."

"I would hope not," Heather said. "So is she happy?"

"She is," Evalynn said. "She loves him and he's a good guy. I've met him a few times and he's really nice."

"Good to hear," Heather said. "I'm really happy you could be here. I know it was last minute and all."

"It's my pleasure," Evalynn said. "So what's the plan as far as kids? You and Embry going to wait for while or will you give Uncle Kevin some Tater Tots right away?"

"I swear if any of you call my kids 'Tater Tots'," Heather said with an irritable sigh and Evalynn started laughing. "I don't know. We want kids, but I think we should wait a while. Gaeli's already getting a window set up for a couple in Montana that want to build their dream lodge on their horse ranch."

"I see that Home and Garden article he was so skeptical about is paying off," Evalynn smile.

"Definitely," Heather smiled. "They're paying $5000 as a down payment and by the time it's all said and done, we'll be looking at a $50,000 profit. That's assuming that couple does the bare minimum."

"That's not a half bad profit I'd say," Evalynn said.

"Exactly. Problem is, he'll be gone for a while," Heather said. "He'll need to work on location and it's not like I can up and go with him. I can't leave Joseph alone to do all the work himself."

"And leaving you alone with a baby isn't exactly ideal either," Evalynn said, continuing Heather's train of thought.

"Right," Heather said. "I don't want Embry to miss anything. When we have a kid, I want him with me the whole way through the pregnancy."

"That's understandable. When will Embry be going to Montana?"

"They're shooting for May through July," Heather said. "The weather will be good for that kind of thing and it gives Embry time to put a team together."

"Sounds like a plan," Evalynn said. "So kids are on the table but it'll have to wait?"

"Yeah," Heather nodded and then finished Evalynn's last toe. "It'll happen someday. One of us has to give mom and dad grandkids."

"I think Uncle Kevin's earned some Tater Tots," Evalynn said and Heather grabbed a pillow and swung it against Evalynn's head as she laughed.

"I said don't call them Tater Tots!" Heather said as she laughed along with Evalynn.

"It's going to happen, Heather. You may as well accept it," Evalynn said and grabbed the pillow.

The next morning, Emma Leigh was at the house bright and early to help everyone get ready. She put Heather's air in an up do and curled Evalynn's hair even if she was going to be dressed comparatively casually. Embry was at his parents' house with all his brothers and sisters there. With their parents and all eleven of the kids in the house together, it felt really cramped, but Caevia and Embry Sr. were happy for it. He got dressed once it was nightfall and the pyre was new and ready to be lit once the ceremony was over. Heather was put into the lilac dress that Amber had worn and that Anna had worn before her. The dress was easily over 100 years old but Alice managed to make it look like new. Kevin had arrived a few hours prior with the twins and he got a little misty eyed when he saw Heather in the dress.

"You look beautiful, Heather," Kevin said once Heather was downstairs ready to go to the pyre.

"Mama," Amber said and went to the chair where Anna was relaxing to get her attention, "Heather ist angezogen. Komm und sieh sie dir an." (Heather is dressed. Come see her.) Anna had been extremely tired all day and had remained downstairs staying off her feet, but she stood up when Amber guided her to so she could see Heather. When Anna saw her, in a moment of clarity, she started crying and walked over to Heather.

"Oh, Heather, mein Schatz; Du siehst wunderschön aus," (my darling; you look beautiful) Anna said. Heather started crying and held Anna close. Hearing her grandmother say that made the rush to have the wedding as soon as possible completely worth it.

"Danke, Oma," (thank you, grandma) Heather said. Kevin started rubbing her back. Anna lifted her head so she could give Heather a kiss and finally Amber helped get Anna to the pyre for the wedding.

Kevin and Heather were the last ones to make it to the pyre and Heather took a seat right by Embry once they'd arrived. Embry took her hand and smiled at her but soon realized she'd been crying.

"Are you okay?" Embry asked.

"Yeah," Heather said. "Grandma said I look beautiful."

"You do," Embry smiled and squeezed her hand.

With Heather now being there, Kyle and Jacob proceeded with the ceremony. They recounted the tail of their ancestors, expressed the sentiment that Embry and Heather were continuing that legacy, the same women from before danced for Heather and Embry wishing good fertility and finally Heather and Embry lit the pyre to signal the beginning of their marriage. Then the tribe was directed to dance around the pyre with Heather and Embry for good fortune. While they all danced, Evalynn kept an eye out for Shyann but when she finally found her, she was dancing with a boy that she was left to assume was the boyfriend she'd heard about, so Evalynn left her alone. She found Caleb, but he was dancing with Ashley and the two of them were having a great time together, so she left them alone too. She and Levi ended up sitting down together after several minutes of dancing. Heather and Embry continued to dance around the pyre with several other guests.

"I guess it's your turn next?" Evalynn asked Levi.

"We'll see," Levi smiled. "I doubt it. Nadja and I really haven't talked about closing the distance permanently."

"You two haven't talked about that?"

"I mean, we know we want to but the actual logistics of it all we haven't really figured out. It's only been a year and I haven't finished school yet, so it's not as though there's much room for discussion yet."

"This is your last year at Princeton, though," Evalynn said.

"I know," Levi said. "When she's here, we'll hunker down and really talk about it."

"I'd suggest it," Evalynn said. "How long will she be here?"

"For the week," he said. "She'll fly into New Jersey and we'll drive up to Manhattan and stay the week at my parents' place. Dad already told the front desk to expect us."

"Any plans to go back to London?"

"If I can save up enough, I really want to go for Spring Break," Levi said. "So leading up to that, I'll be taking more hours at the grocery store."

"Every little bit helps," Evalynn said. "So what's the plan after Princeton? Are you coming back to Washington to find work or are you staying in New York?"

"I'm coming back to Washington. I might work in New York for a while, but I want to come home. I miss it here."

"Yeah, me too," Evalynn said. "New England's been great and I've made a lot of friends, but there's really no place like home."

"I know what you mean," Levi said. Evalynn was about to continue their conversation, but they were interrupted.

"Hey stranger!" a young woman called out as she was approaching them. It was Shyann. She'd changed so much yet not at all. She was taller, her figure was beginning to form that of a woman's physique and her voice had deepened just a little. She'd also changed her hair. It was a pixie cut now and it actually looked adorable on her. However, she still wore a butchered band shirt (this one in particular being Led Zeppelin) that showed off her bra and a leather jacket with a pair of jean shorts.

"Jesus, kid; aren't you freezing?" Levi said when Shyann came over.

"I'm freezing whether I'm in short or long sleeves, so may as well dress how I want," Shyann said.

Levi shrugged, "If you get a cold, it's your own fault." Shyann's answer was to stick her tongue out at Levi.

"So how've you been?" Evalynn asked.

"I've been alright. I got myself a job at Buckley's Coffee in town," Shyann said with a smirk.

"So you work right before school?"

"Up to the minute," Shyann said. "I'm up at 3:30 in the morning, get there by 4 and I work until 7:30 so I can make it to school by 8. I get Sunday and Monday off."

"You get up at 3:30?" Evalynn asked as she raised her brow, not really believing it.

"Never said it was easy, but you're damn straight I do," Shyann said with a big smile. Then she took a seat on the ground by Evalynn. "So how've you been miss Big Shot?"

"I've been fine," Evalynn said. "Just juggling Medical School and a social life."

"Same," Shyann said. "I can't wait until I've saved up enough to buy myself a car."

"That's right; you started Driver's Ed this year didn't you?" Evalynn said. "How's that been going?"

"Great," Shyann said. "Before summer vacation starts, we'll be going on a field trip to the DMV to take our written tests, then our driving test and if we pass, we get our licenses that same day."

"Yes, I remember," Evalynn said, thinking back fondly on said field trip. "I'd skipped a grade so I was in my junior year and had to go on that field trip with all the sophomores. You could always tell who didn't pass either the written or driver's test – they always had to try again throughout the summer so they wouldn't be the only ones without a license when school got back in."

"I can promise you that won't be me," Shyann said confidently. "I want to have enough to buy myself a car this summer. The prices are better in Phoenix, so I'll be getting it there and driving it up to Washington."

"Are you sure you can do that?" Evalynn asked. "I mean, are you going to have anyone with you? I wouldn't suggest going on a cross country trip all by yourself."

"I'll be fine, mom," Shyann said with a laugh. "I'll go to Arizona on the buses with the others, but on the way back, I'm driving."

"Maybe you should have your brother with you at least. Dakota's his name right?"

"You kidding me? Dakota would sooner walk back to Washington than be in a car alone with me for two days," Shyann said. "Besides, I don't want to take my brother. I want to go alone. I'm a grown woman; I can do what I want."

"When you're a grown woman, sure, but you're a kid until you're 18. That's how it works," Evalynn said.

"Well, if I get my license and can drive, I'm driving myself back to Washington no matter what anyone says," Shyann said. "I don't need a chaperone."

"Bring your boyfriend with you at least," Evalynn said. "That guy you were dancing with was your boyfriend right?"

"No way," Shyann said. "He's fun and all for after school, but I don't want to go on a road trip with him." Evalynn took a deep breath. The girl was stubborn as a bull.

"And you don't think your parents won't take issue with you making such a long trip by yourself?"

"What are they going to do? Send the flock after me and swoop down in the middle of the road for all the world to see? I don't think so," Shyann said and snickered a little. "Here I thought you'd think it sounded like a lot of fun."

"I didn't say it didn't sound fun. I'm saying it sounds reckless," Evalynn said. "Isn't there anyone that you'd be alright with taking with you? One of your cousins? A friend of yours from school that might be up for a road trip? Desarae, Cidelle, Uilette or Yvonne even? Anyone?"

"Nope," Shyann said with her head high.

"You're nuts," Evalynn said. "So wait, does work know you'll be taking the summer off?"

"I already told my boss; he said be back by end of July and it'll be fine," Shyann said.

"'End of July' is a bit of a broad term," Evalynn said. "Don't you guys stay until the first week of September?"

"Exactly why I'll be driving back to Washington myself," Shyann said and Evalynn took another deep breath.

"If you say so," Evalynn said, ending it there. "What about a place of your own?"

"I like the way you think, but car first," Shyann said. "That'll be next. You watch: I'll have my own place before I graduate."

Not likely, Evalynn thought but she kept that to herself. "That's quite a goal. What about college? What's the plan there?"

"I'm not going to college," Shyann said. "I'm going to get a job at Ada's bar."

"Oh? And does she know that?" Evalynn said, the barest smile of amusement crossing her face.

"Not yet, but I'm sure she'll give me work," Shyann said. "And if not, I'll get a job somewhere else."

"You've certainly got it all planned out," Levi said, though there was a hint of sarcasm in his voice. "I'm going to bug Caleb. You two have fun." Levi walked away leaving Evalynn and Shyann alone.

"Maybe you should go to Beauty School at least," Evalynn suggested once Levi was gone. "It's always good to be trained in a skill."

"I'll think about it," Shyann said, "but I'd rather just get myself out and working and on my own."

"So are you planning to stay here after you graduate?"

"Yeah," Shyann said, "I miss the sun but frankly staying here will give me more freedom. Parents can't tell me what to do when I'm so far away now can they?"

"I see," Evalynn said. "I would think they'll be visiting, though, so they can certainly give their 2 cents on the matter."

"It'll be fine; I'll make it work," Shyann said and then stood up. "I swear you worry too much."

"Someone has to," Evalynn said and stood up along with her. "So outside of a lonely road trip and getting a place of your own, what else have you been up to?"

"Just working and school," Shyann said. "Oh! I got to go to a Halloween party a few weeks ago. There's this guy up at Forks High School I know that has a friend in Port Angeles that threw a big party and he invited me."

"What did you go as?"

"I dressed up as Cat Woman," Shyann said. "I had every guy at that party drooling," she continued with a proud smirk.

"I bet you did," Evalynn said. "So I take it you didn't go down to Phoenix to see the fight?"

"No; I didn't want to go. Good for Ahiga and all, but I wasn't interested in seeing the fight. I hear he won and that's what matters. With everyone gone, I could have a little 'me' time if you know what I mean," Shyann said. Evalynn suspected she knew what she meant by 'me' time, but didn't ask her to elaborate. "So who did your makeup? It looks really nice tonight."

"What makes you think I didn't do it myself?"

"Because I remember seeing what you doing your own makeup looks like and it's not this," Shyann said with a small laugh.

"Well fuck you too then," Evalynn said and Shyann laughed more.

"Come on; I think you're due for another makeup lesson," Shyann said.

"Not this time. I'm technically the Maid of Honor. I can't walk away from Heather's wedding," Evalynn said.

"Oh come one; I guarantee you she won't even notice you being gone. She's been glued to Embry since that pyre was lit," Shyann said. Truthfully, Heather probably wouldn't mind, but she still wanted to be sure.

"I'll tell you what: I'll let her know you want to school me on how to do makeup properly and if she says she'll be alright with me gone, then we'll go," Evalynn said and walked to the pyre where there were still people dancing. The moment she saw Heather and Embry, she stopped them so she could let Heather know she'd be going to the dorms with Shyann. Thankfully, Heather affirmed she didn't mind and went back to dancing with Embry. Shyann was in the same place she'd been when Evalynn left but the boy from before was standing by her now. "Hey," Evalynn said.

"Hey Evalynn," the boy said. "Long time no see."

"You're…..shit, I'm sorry; it really has been a while," Evalynn said.

"Luke," he said. "It's okay; I was still a kid when you'd graduated. How's Medical School been?"

"Fantastic; thanks for asking. So how long have you and Shyann been a thing?"

"About a month," Luke said.

"Luke, I was going to hang out with Evalynn for a while. I'll see you later, okay?" Shyann said.

"Sure; I'll see you later," Luke said, gave Shyann a peck on the lips and then walked off to see his own friends.

"Took me a second, but I remember him now," Evalynn said. "He's a good kid."

"He's fine," Shyann said. "So did the bride give you leave or are you stuck here?"

"She said it's fine," Evalynn said.

"Great!" Shyann said and took Evalynn's hand before taking her with to the dorms. They went to Shyann's room and it hadn't changed. There were some new posters, but that was about it. "I got some new makeup so I'm eager for a guinea pig."

"I'm happy to volunteer," Evalynn said. "So when did you cut your hair? It looks cute."

"I cut it before school started. I did it myself, it looked horrible and Alice fixed it for me," Shyann said. "Catch is now I'm stuck with Pixie hair for a while. I'm trying to grow it back."

"Well, at least it's a cute outcome," Evalynn said.

"It'll do for now," Shyann said as she opened her makeup box on her desk. "So I've got a few new colors that I thought would look cute on me but now I'm not so sure." She pulled out some lipsticks that ranged from bright Barbie pink to bright reds and even a purple lipstick. "If any of these look good on you they're all yours."

"I'm rejecting the purple one just so we're clear," Evalynn said.

"This one?" Shyann said, presenting it. "Hell no, this one's mine. It's Wine. I love this one. I meant this Barbie pink and Crack Whore red."

Evalynn burst into laughter, "And are those the official names of these lipsticks?"

"May as well be," Shyann said and looked at them. "This one is Rosy Pink and this one," she shifted to the red, "is Enchanted Red."

"For a 'Rosy' pink, that's awfully light," Evalynn said.

"Agreed," Shyann said. "I bought these from the drugstore on a whim while I was in Port Angeles and I think it goes without saying the beer goggles lied to me."

"Wait, you were drinking?"

"Of course I was," Shyann said. "What the hell's the point of going to a college guy's party if you're not going to drink?"

"You didn't say it was a college guy's party," Evalynn said. Shyann sat across from Evalynn and started with some cream on Evalynn's face.

"I swear, your skin is flawless," Shyann said.

"Thank you," Evalynn said.

"Okay, so I'm going to put on this primer," Shyann said. "It's supposed to make sure your makeup lasts longer. I think we'll go light on the eye shadow since you'll be wearing lipstick."

"Which one are you putting me in?"

"I think the red," Shyann said. "I imagine red will look good on you."

"I tend to go to the browns," Evalynn said.

"Those probably look great too, but don't be afraid of a little color. Take it from me," Shyann said with a wink. Shyann grabbed her pallet, some eye liner and mascara and got to work. As promised, she toned down the shadows on Evalynn's eyes though she went with a smoky look using some nude colors that complimented Evalynn's skin tone. She put some black liner along the lid then finished off with some mascara and used a clean brush to clean away any fallout from the shadow. "Perfect. All that's left is the lipstick." Evalynn parted her lips so Shyann could apply the lipstick and once it was done, she smirked. "You clean up nicely."

"Gee, thanks," Evalynn said and grabbed the mirror to see. "It looks really pretty. You've improved since last you did my makeup."

"Practice makes perfect as they say," Shyann said. "Okay, now do me. Do something that will look nice with the Wine purple."

"I'll try my best," Evalynn said and started applying makeup to Shyann's face.

Once all the lotions, primer and foundations were applied, she started looking through the colors on the pallet and notices a sparkly silver shadow that Evalynn had a sneaking suspicion Shyann would appreciate. Given it was clearly used, she knew Shyann definitely liked it. She put down a layer of purple over her eye then tried to put in the silver sparkly shadow but it wasn't showing the way she was hoping it would. She spent several minutes packing that down until it was finally showing enough. Then she put some liner and mascara on her. Finally Evalynn applied the Wine lipstick to Shyann's lips and gently rubbed away any paint that had gotten out from the line of Shyann's lips.

"Okay, done. I think I did pretty good if I do say so myself," Evalynn said. Shyann grabbed the mirror to see herself and smiled.

"Oh, you did do a really nice job," Shyann said and posed a little, admiring her image. "Looks like someone's been practicing."

"I'm glad you like it," Evalynn said.

"I think I'll have to use this look for Prom once that rolls around," Shyann said and went to her closet to start rummaging through her clothes.

"I'm hearing Prom at the school has become really fun with your tribe around," Evalynn said.

"There's more of us to entertain," Shyann said, "but I'll be going to prom at the Forks High School. Don't know who I'm going with yet, but that's the one I'll be going to. Actually, I'll probably go to both."

"Are you even able to go unless you're a student?"

"I'm sure I can find someone to invite me," Shyann said and then pulled out an orange sun dress. She tore off all her clothes except her bra and panties and then put on the dress before going in front of her full length mirror. "Yeah, I think this makeup will look real nice."

"You're wearing that to prom? Not that it's not a pretty dress, but I would think you'd wear something more formal."

"Oh I will; don't you worry," Shyann said. "Who'd you go with to Prom?"

"No one really," Evalynn said. "I went to my senior prom with my little brother, my cousins and a few friends and that's about it."

"You didn't have a boyfriend to go with?"

"No, I never had a boyfriend," Evalynn said.

"You didn't?" Shyann asked, clearly shocked. "You're so pretty; how have you never had a boyfriend?"

"May have to do with the fact I'm not into guys," Evalynn said matter-of-factly.

"You're gay?"

"Yeah," Evalynn said.

"Oh," Shyann said and then shrugged. "That would explain why you've never had a boyfriend. So wait, you never had a girlfriend either?"

"I've had girlfriends, but not during high school. My first girlfriend was someone from the local high school when I started my first year at Yale."

"So you're a cougar," Shyann teased.

"No, we were both 18," Evalynn said. "I skipped a grade, remember?"

"Oh, right, miss smarty pants," Shyann said. "So are you and she still together?"

"No, we broke up because there was no long term potential. I started dating another woman after that but she and I are just friends now," Evalynn said, omitting the part about her and Jessica being friends with benefits.

"What about now? Are you seeing anyone else?"

"No, not at the moment," Evalynn said.

"So how do you know if a woman's gay? You don't just walk up and ask them or something do you?"

"I don't know," Evalynn shrugged, "With Caroline I got lucky and Jessica I met at a gay bar, so assuming she's gay was a bit of a no brainer."

"Are gay bars different than a regular bar?"

"Other than catering to gays, not particularly. The Marmalade Bar is owned by a Drag Queen and there're drag shows so it's definitely different in that sense, but there are gay bars where it's just a bar."

"Drag Queens are women impersonators right? Man that sounds like fun! I'd love to go to one of those."

"Turn 21 when you can drink and then you can go," Evalynn smiled.

"Fuck that; I'll get myself a fake ID and go now," Shyann said.

"Please don't," Evalynn said.

"Nope, you've talked me into it," Shyann said and started laughing. "So how did you know you were gay?"

"How did I know?"

"Yeah," Shyann said.

"I mean….I just knew. How do you know you're straight?"

"Honestly, I don't," Shyann said and looked at herself in the mirror again. "You're sworn to secrecy, but I have a big crush on Mrs. Black."

"Which one?" Evalynn asked.

"Ada," Shyann said, then sighed and plopped down on her bed so she was sitting. "She's stunning, she's worldly, she has a nice accent, she can dance – I hear she's also been with women before so I bet she'd know a thing or two."

"Okay, Shyann, remember Aunt Ada is married. Let it go before it gets ugly," Evalynn said.

"Oh shush, I won't do anything. I'm not a home wrecker," Shyann said. "Doesn't mean I can't daydream." Shyann sighed with a smile. "Honestly, there's a girl in my gym class I think is really cute, but she has a boyfriend. Besides, I'd rather Ada any day. That's a woman that knows what she's doing."

"Just keep it to yourself I say," Evalynn said. "Honestly, if you aren't sure, you can always date a girl and see how things go."

"But you said you knew before your first girlfriend?"

"Yeah, I did, but it took a lot of soul searching," Evalynn said. "Gays and lesbians aren't exactly looked fondly on so you have to be careful who you tell. I spent early puberty thinking I was wrong but by 14, I knew. I wasn't proud of it at first, but I knew. Heather was the first one I told. She kept it secret for me and for years she was the only one that knew I was gay until I finally opened up to my dad. In retrospect, I don't know why I thought he'd be angry with me, but he wasn't. Mom was a little less accepting of it but she wasn't cruel or anything. I think she just doesn't get it, you know what I mean?"

"Yeah," Shyann said and then looked at Evalynn with a smile playing across her face. "I just had an idea."

"Oh no," Evalynn said with a small laugh.

"Shut up, it's nothing bad," Shyann said. "Why don't you and I kiss?"

"What?"

"Let's kiss! No better way to test if I like girls than to kiss one right?"

"Shyann, I think you're oversimplifying this a little," Evalynn said. "Look, if you want to dip your toes in the water, I say go for it, but I'm not the person to do that with."

"Why not?"

"Aside from the obvious fact that I'm so much older than you and it's inappropriate," Evalynn said, "I'm no one's experiment. You either know you want to date me or you're bi-curious. Nothing wrong with being bi-curious and there are plenty of lesbians that are into breaking a girl in, but I'm not one of them."

"Okay," Shyann said, obviously offended with the rejection but keeping it to herself save for her facial expressions, "then how do I find a lesbian that's willing to 'break me in' as you put it?"

"I say start with your age group," Evalynn said with a shrug. "Look, Shyann, I don't mean to hurt your feelings or anything –"

"You didn't hurt my feelings," Shyann said perhaps a little too quickly and defensively.

"Regardless, I didn't mean to upset you," Evalynn said. "Look, if you think you might like girls, then try to find another girl in your school that you think might be willing to give women a shot. Or try dating a girl from Forks High School. You never know who might be up for that sort of thing. You just need to be willing to put yourself out there. Just remember: be careful who you tell."

"Fine," Shyann said. "I'd better get to bed. I've got work in the morning."

Taking the hint, Evalynn stood up from the chair she'd been occupying, "Alright. Get some sleep. I'll be here through Thanksgiving and I'll be staying with my parents. I'll see you around."

"Sure," Shyann said and Evalynn stepped out of Shyann's dorm.

Evalynn heard the door close with a little more force than was necessary and she knew, despite Shyann saying otherwise, she really had hurt Shyann's feelings. Or wounded her pride. One of the two. Evalynn walked back to the pyre and saw that Heather and Embry were sitting together eating dinner surrounded by several other family members, Kyle among them. She didn't want to bother Kyle and she definitely didn't want to bother Heather. She managed to find Caleb who was sitting with Levi and Ashley, but Ashley was focusing on talking with a few friends of hers and Caleb and Levi were more interested in his dinner, so Evalynn went over to him.

"Well, you look pretty," Caleb joked when he saw Evalynn approach.

"A regular diva," Evalynn said. "Can I steal you for a while?"

"Sure, I guess. Everything okay?" Caleb asked.

"Yeah, I just need to air out some frustration," Evalynn said.

"Sure," Caleb said and looked at Ashley. "Ashley, Evalynn and I are going to go to mom and dad's for a while."

"Okay," Ashley said. "Are we staying here over night or did you want to go home?"

"We can stay overnight if it gets too late," Caleb said. "If you want to go home, just come grab me okay?"

"Okay," Ashley said and the two kissed before Caleb followed Evalynn back to their parents' house with the remainder of his dinner on his plate.

"Did you want me to come?" Levi asked.

"No, you enjoy dinner; I just want to talk to Caleb," Evalynn said and the two continued to walk away in the direction of Kyle's and Evalina's house.

"So what happened?" Caleb asked as they walked along.

"I think I upset Shyann," Evalynn said. "I'll tell you more once we're home." They stayed quiet the rest of the walk until they made it back home. Evalynn and Caleb went to the kitchen and Caleb put his plate on the counter to finish while Evalynn went straight for the pantry looking for wine that she knew would be there. Once she found a bottle, she pulled that out, uncorked the bottle and poured herself a generous glass.

"That bad, eh?" Caleb asked.

"You could say that," Evalynn said. "Did you want some?"

"Sure," Caleb said. Evalynn got another glass and poured until Caleb told her to stop and then handed that over to him. "So what happened?"

"To get straight to the point, she asked me to kiss her and I said no," Evalynn said.

"Okay," Caleb said, "can you give me some context?"

"Basically, she asked if I'd ever had a boyfriend and I told her that I didn't; that I wasn't into guys and like women. She's evidently been feeling 'bi-curious' for lack of a better word and she asked me to kiss her to test if she likes girls or not. I told her that was inappropriate for one thing and for another, I'm no one's experiment. I think my rejection upset her."

"So you did the mature thing and she's mad at you for it. Got it," Caleb said. "Honestly, I say don't take it personally. We've all been there: sixteen, hormonal and unreasonable. Hey, maybe this will be a good thing. If she says she's developing romantic feelings for women, maybe by the time she grows up and gets a clue, things will work out between the two of you. I assume you still don't feel romantically about her?"

"No; especially not right now," Evalynn said with a sigh. "Were it not for the fact I imprinted on her, I don't think I'd have given her a second glance."

"Well duh, she's a teenager," Caleb said.

"That's not how I meant it," Evalynn said. "To tell you the truth, she really upset me."

"Why's that?"

"Because it felt cheap," Evalynn said, "like all I'm worth is testing."

"That's not true," Caleb said. "Like I said: don't take it personally."

"I'm trying not to," Evalynn said. "According to grandma and grandpa, the Romans used to view the teen years as being mentally ill."

"Honestly, I can't say it's far from the truth," Caleb smiled a little.

"Did you hear about her plan to buy a car in Phoenix next summer and drive that back to Washington all by herself?"

"Good luck with that one," Caleb chuckled. "None of the chaperones will let that one fly."

"She's pretty adamant regardless. I kept suggesting people she could take with her but that kid's hell bent."

"We'll see how long that lasts," Caleb said. "It'll get better; I promise."

"I hope so," Evalynn said. "Honestly, I can't help worrying about her. I keep hearing from daddy how she's doing but then every time I come home, I'll hear rumors about her. According to Heather, she's going through boyfriends like tissues to use her words."

"Don't think too much about that. A bunch of them are going around like it's nothing," Caleb said. "Parents do what they can but sometimes all anyone can do is throw a condom at their heads and tell them not to be stupid. The one time you forget is all it takes."

"You and Ashley got lucky, though."

"True," Caleb said.

"Of course, now that the two of you are married, having a baby isn't an issue."

"No, it's still an issue; we're not really….financially confident let's say. We make decent money and all, but I don't know if it's enough to support a kid right now. We've been saving up and we want to start a family, but it's not the right time."

"When do you suspect will be the right time?"

Caleb shrugged, "I don't know yet. I'm trying to get a better job."

"Nothing wrong with that," Evalynn said. "You've been working at that lumber mill since high school. How much do you make?"

"$8.30 an hour," Caleb said.

"Jeez; talk about the bare minimum," Evalynn said. "Yeah, you deserve better than that."

"Kicker is my starting pay once I graduated high school was $8.00 an hour."

"What about Ashley?"

"She makes $7.45 an hour," Caleb said. "She wants to find a better job too but she's concerned about getting a new job only to need to go on maternity leave or something. I told her let me take the plunge first and if I find a really good job with good insurance, she can go on my insurance through work and it'll allow her to keep more of the pay she gets now so maybe we'll be able to go through with starting a family at long last."

"You know, everyone always told us never grow up: we should have listened," Evalynn smiled reassuringly.

"Yeah, being a grown up sucks," Caleb said. "Gabriel and Emma Leigh still haven't had a kid for the same reason. Emma Leigh really wants to open her own shop. As you know, that takes money and kids do tend to drain that resource."

"They're still planning to have kids aren't they?"

"Oh yeah; Emma Leigh really wants to start a family, but her practical brain keeps winning over her heart as she says."

"Damn that practical brain," Evalynn said. "Heather and I talked about that. She doesn't know when she and Embry want to have kids but she doesn't want them right away especially when he's going to be gone for so long."

"Why? Where's he going?"

"Montana as I hear it. He got a job to build a ranch out there courtesy of the piece about them in Home and Garden," Evalynn said.

"Well that's fantastic news," Caleb said. "Certainly didn't take long."

"Yeah, no kidding," Evalynn said. "She got mad at me when I referred to these future children as 'Tater Tots'."

"That's what they will be called and she just needs to accept it," Caleb chuckled. "If she wants to blame anyone, she'll need to blame her husband for getting the nickname 'Tater' in the first place."

"Exactly," Evalynn laughed. "Well, if nothing else as long as Ashley keeps shifting, the two of you have all the time in the world."

"Yeah, I know. It's the only reason she will shift is so she keeps the wolf and all that comes with it," Caleb said. "Who knows: at this rate, maybe you and I will have kids about the same time."

"I wouldn't count on it," Evalynn smiled. "Frankly, I'm not about to accept donations from a Sperm Bank any time soon."

"Noted," Caleb chuckled. "Sergei's looking for a better job too but he's trying to get his own place first. I guess Uncle Boris has been getting on his case about moving out."

"I mean, the man's what? 25 now?"

"He's 24," Caleb said.

"So ready to be out of the house and on his own you mean?"

"Pretty much," Caleb said. "Trust me: he wants to be on his own. He just needs a place in town that's affordable. Although he's started putting his hat out for jobs in Port Angeles so he may wait until he's found work there before making the move."

"Sounds like a plan," Evalynn said. "Thanks for this. I feel a lot better."

"Good; that's what I'm here for," Caleb said. "Just be patient with Shyann. Remember she's just a kid and she'll grow out of it."

"Yeah," Evalynn said, "I know. Eventually."

Meanwhile Embry and Heather enjoyed dinner together among the guests until it was nearly 1 in the morning and they decided they wanted to get home. It was a nearly 2 hour drive and Heather ended up sleeping through most of it. She'd already gotten out of the lilac dress into a much smaller knee length dress that was the same colors as the wedding dress and Embry changed back to his usual clothes so they wouldn't have to worry about bringing everything back to the tribe. Once they made it back to Embry's house, now his and Heather's house, he got the car parked and carried Heather through the garage into the house without waking her. It felt very romantic to carry her through the house and up the stairs to their bedroom. She'd already moved all her things into his house and it already felt like she'd always lived there.

Embry gently laid her down on her side of the bed, took off her shoes and then tucked her under the covers so she could sleep. Once he was out of his clothes, he got into bed right beside her and went right to sleep. The next morning, late in the morning, Heather woke up and realized she was in their bedroom. She looked over her shoulder at Embry seeing he was still asleep and smiled. She got out of bed and removed the dress she'd been wearing when they drove home. As she was about to go to the closet to get a change of clothes, she had an idea. Instead, she removed her bra and panties and quietly left their bedroom going downstairs to the kitchen. She found the apron she'd bought and put that on. Figuring she had time to spare before Embry would be awake, she decided to be daring and make biscuits and gravy. She started with the biscuit dough following a recipe from one of the cookbooks Amber had given her as a wedding present.

She started prepping for the gravy while the dough was resting in the fridge, she got together everything she'd need for the gravy. She still had time to let the dough rest and she didn't want to start the gravy too soon, so she took a break to make some coffee. The smell filled the kitchen and after reviewing the recipe, Heather turned on the oven and got the biscuit dough rolled out and then cut into servings. By the time those were all cut out, the oven went off indicating it was ready and she tossed the biscuits into the oven, set the timer and moved on to making the sausage gravy. The biscuits were done first so she got those in a basket with a kitchen towel to keep them warm and focused on the gravy until it was the consistency she wanted. She heard Embry's footsteps as he came downstairs but didn't acknowledge him. She wanted him to see her cooking and the state in which she was doing it.

When Embry made it downstairs following the smell of sausage and coffee, he saw Heather in the kitchen completely naked except for the apron she wore. He was enchanted by her and he stood back for a while just watching her as his mouth watered, but it wasn't the smell of food that gave him the effect. Her hair was a little messy from sleep but her hair reached just below her shoulders: a rich brown color disheveled from sleep and absolutely breathtaking. He suspected she knew he was there, but she confirmed she was aware of his presence when she 'accidently' dropped a teaspoon on the floor and bent over to pick it up, making sure she bent away from him so her sex was completely in view.

"What's for breakfast?" Embry asked after she stood back up. She turned around to look at him with a sultry smile on her face.

"Biscuits and gravy," Heather said. "I wanted to try something new."

"It smells amazing," Embry said and walked into the kitchen.

"I just need to make some eggs then breakfast will be ready. Are you hungry?" Heather asked.

"Starving," Embry answered.

Then he turned off the burners so everything wouldn't burn before grabbing a hold of Heather and back her against a wall then pressing his lips to hers. He was like a wild animal and she loved it. Heather reached around her neck to untie the apron so it would fall but Embry's chest pressing against hers kept the apron up. Embry untied the bottom ties at her waist then tugged the apron away so it was no longer coming between them. With the apron discarded, Embry took his lips away from hers and started kissing his way around her jaw and down her neck. He stopped at a spot that was especially sensitive and sucked on her skin while one of his hands trailed between them so he could start touching her entrance. Heather trembled from Embry's touch and his lips tickled her neck. The sensation made her whole body quiver and she was moaning the whole time.

Embry picked her up suddenly, never taking his finger away from her center, and got on his knees taking her with him and then planted Heather on the floor. Once she was comfortably situated, Embry continued kissing a trail down her body going to her breasts to suck on her nipples. Heather ran her fingers through Embry's hair as he continued kissing his way down her body. The whole time, he had two fingers inside her while his thumb rubbed her clitoris. He eventually came down between her legs and replaced his thumb with his tongue. The change in sensation shook her and she arched her back with a trembling moan while her fingers gripped his hair. Embry swirled his tongue around and around as his fingers went in and out of her easing Heather into her orgasm. When she was about to climax, she arched her back and moaned his name and Embry became more aggressive with his tongue so she moaned louder. When she finally came, she cried out his name again. He kept moving his tongue around until for a moment as she eased down then he got back up, looking down at her. She was in a state of bliss and it was the most beautiful site in the world.

"I'll be right back," Embry said and kissed her elevated knee. "Stay just like this, okay?"

Embry left Heather on the floor of the kitchen so he could go upstairs to their bedroom to retrieve some protection. Once he had it, he returned downstairs and Heather was on the floor just as he'd left her but she'd recovered her senses by then. She was smiling sweetly at him waiting patiently for him to come back to her. Embry got on the floor before her, pulled his briefs down so his erection came free and got their protection in place tossing the wrapper aside before finally covering her body with his. He pressed a kiss to her lips and Heather wrapped her arms around Embry's neck to hold him close to her. As they kissed, Embry moved his hips forward so he could slip inside her and he was still for several seconds. She was so tight and hot and wet and when he had pushed his hips forward, Heather whimpered into his kiss with pleasure as her arms tightened around his neck. Embry lifted his head so he could look at her and once their eyes met, he started to move. They held each other's gaze for a moment until Heather moaned as her head fell back onto the floor.

He started slow and dipped his head down to start kissing her neck again. He sped up his pace the more Heather moaned and then Heather's arms fell onto the floor allowing Embry to sit up so he could grip her hips. He stopped so he could adjust her body beneath him and spread her legs pressing them down as far as they could go until her knees were nearly touching her shoulders. Once she was in position, he started to move again going slow at first but picking up the pace the more she moaned. Heather lifted her hands so they were pressed against his chest but they wandered over his arms and shoulders unable to stay still. Embry had her in such a position that his movements were hitting an especially good spot eliciting a sharp pleasure. Pleasure was building again and Heather's arms fell back to the floor and she laid back savoring the sensation.

Embry wanted to stay as they were seeing the effect it was having on her. He kept moving keeping Heather on her back with her legs pressed against her. When she was getting close to another release, she grabbed a hold of his forearms and her nails started to dig into his skin. When her grip tightened and started to hurt, Embry just moved harder and faster until Heather was crying out. Then her walls clamped down tightly around his erection and he had to stay still for a moment. Heather started panting heavily and Embry lifted her up so she was straddling his lap and cradled in his arms. Embry gave her a moment to recover before guiding her hips to move up and down until she eventually took over the movement. Heather lowered her head so she could start kissing Embry as she moved, using her knees pressed against the floor to bounce up and down on his hips. Embry ended up falling back so he was laying down on the kitchen floor allowing Heather more control. She took over completely and Embry lifted his hands up to Heather's chest to touch her breasts affectionately, pinching her nipples and offering her support to keep her upright. When he felt himself getting close, Embry tugged her down on top of him so he could hold her close and took over, gripping her ass in his hands and guiding her. When he finally reached his own climax, Embry clutched onto her, wrapping his arms around her and turned over so she was on her back with his body pressing her onto the floor with their lips joined in a passionate kiss. When Embry finally came down from his own high, he started pressing gentle kisses over her cheek and jaw.

"I love you," Embry said.

"I love you too," Heather replied. "Are you still hungry?"

"Extremely," Embry chuckled. "Can I have sunny side up eggs?"

"Sure," Heather said and kissed his cheek. "Let's go ahead and get dressed."

"No," Embry said. "I'd rather stay like this."

"Okay," Heather replied and hugged him tighter.

For three days, neither Ahiga and Nesia or Embry and Heather were disturbed. When they finally did come out from their seclusions, they returned to business as usual. Evalynn stayed among the tribe at her parents' house but went into the city a few times after Heather and Embry were no longer secluded. When Thanksgiving came, the whole family went to the Cullen house for a big dinner with plenty of food to go around. Evalynn noticed that Shyann wasn't there which saddened her but she didn't dwell on it. Instead she focused on spending time with family and having a good time. The next day, Evalynn and Levi flew back East ready to get back to school the following Monday. December became a very stressful month for Roshad and Jaedynn. Kevin was still working to iron out the remaining details for the adoption and moving the boys from New York to Washington. Finally, Kevin got the good news that, as soon as the boys had their shots, Jaedynn and Roshad could go to New York to pick them up and bring them home. They already had the bedroom ready with three more cribs and any more extra necessities they would need and once Kevin gave them confirmation, they made the arrangements to fly to New York including letting Gloria know they would be there. Since Levi would be using Kevin's apartment, Roshad and Jaedynn opted for a long term hotel room typically used by long distance businessmen. It allowed for Ashti to have her own space while the children would be in the same room with Jaedynn and Roshad.

"Are you excited to take your little brothers home, Kamron?" Jaedynn asked as she was getting Kamron dressed in a nicer pair of pants, a tiny dress shirt and a little vest.

"I look stupid," Kamron said.

"No you do not, Azizam; you look adorable," Ashti said and gave Kamron a little kiss on the cheek. She said something to Kamron in Farsi, he answered in a tiny whining voice, Ashti kissed Kamron's cheek again and then stood back up. Then the hotel phone rang and Roshad went to answer it. He spoke with someone briefly then ended the call and went to the bedroom.

"The limousine is here," Roshad said.

"I will hold Iman," Ashti said, having already been dressing Iman nicely.

She got the twins in a stroller and Roshad carried the extra stroller that they'd brought with them to bring Leo, Mikie and Don home in. Once downstairs and in the limo, they were driven to the hospital where the boys where being cared for after their foster parents dropped them off for their shots. Roshad asked the limo driver to wait for them and they all went inside the hospital. They spoke with the front desk and a nurse led them to a nursery. Mikie, Leo and Don were all sound asleep in little cribs in their own little room away from all the other children. They each wore onsies their foster parents had put them in and each was a solid masculine color. Mikie was in green, Don in blue and Leo in grey.

"They've already grown so much," Jaedynn said as she approached them.

"Would you like to take a seat?" the nurse asked, pointing at the rocking chair in the corner. Jaedynn took a seat and Roshad sat beside her in another chair. The nurse brought the cribs over and started by handing Mikie to Jaedynn. Once Mikie was situated safely, she put Don in Jaedynn's other arm and Roshad took Leo in his arms.

"Go see your little brothers, Azizam," Ashti said to Kamron and gently pushed him to go forward. Kamron went to Jaedynn and Roshad to see his brothers. Roshad helped Kamron up onto his lap and Kamron reached over to give Leo a hug.

"Are you excited to meet your little brothers?" the nurse asked Kamron with a bright smile.

"Yeah," Kamron said. He got off Roshad's lap and went to Jaedynn to see Mikie and Don. Ashti brought the stroller over so she could see the boys. She gently covered Kamron's eyes and then opened hers for a moment to see the boys. They were all so precious. They looked nothing like the twins of course and they looked nothing like Kamron either, but they were black fuzzy haired with pudgy little cheeks. Kamron poked Don's cheek and the boy started squirming.

"Kamron, Azizam, don't poke your brother," Roshad said and gently took Kamron's hand.

"Are they coming home with us?" Kamron asked.

"Yes, Kamron, they're coming home with us," Jaedynn smiled.

"Their fosters brought all their clothes and toys, so we've got all that packed for you," the nurse said.

"Thank you," Jaedynn said.

Mikie, Don and Leo had definitely grown since last she and Roshad saw them. They were five months old now and Jaedynn felt as though they'd missed so much already. Navid started to whimper as he woke up which then woke up Sherry which then woke up Mikie, Don and Leo. Soon the room was filled with babies whimpering.

"It begins," Roshad joked.

Jaedynn, Roshad and the nurse got all the babies fed. Ashti got Jaedynn covered in a blanket so she could breastfeed in peace while Roshad and the nurse bottle fed the other three. Once they were fed and all of them were cleaned, Jaedynn and Roshad took another hour to start getting to know their new sons. They were wide awake now and they got them all on a soft play mat along with Sherry and Navid and just watched as all five of them rolled over all on their own and started crawling around. The children all congregated towards the toys, got themselves sat up and started tugging, chewing and throwing things around interacting with one another as though they were already best friends. It was definitely noisy. They all cooed, laughed and screamed at one another. Jaedynn and Roshad sat down with the children on the floor playing with them and while the boys didn't seem initially interested, they actually seemed to recognize the smell of Roshad's cologne and gravitated to him first then to Jaedynn.

"My uncle mentioned an Amended Birth Certificate we'd be signing," Jaedynn said to the nurse at one point.

"Yes, Mrs. Javadi, we'll have you and your husband fill that out before you leave," the nurse affirmed. "Once you and your husband have filled all that out, you're free to leave with them. You'll receive their updated Social Security Cards and Birth Certificates in the mail."

"Excellent; thank you," Roshad said.

When they realized the time, Roshad and Jaedynn got all the babies in their strollers so they could return to the hotel. They were having Gloria over for dinner that night so they needed to get ready. Roshad and Jaedynn filled out their sons' new birth certificates labeling themselves as the parents and officially naming them Michelangelo Javadi, Leonardo Javadi and Donatello Javadi. While they were filling out all the paperwork, for some reason Jaedynn remembered Ivory's little comment and couldn't help giggling under her breath just a little.

"What's funny?" Roshad asked.

"I just remembered something Ivory said," Jaedynn answered. Then she started to hum the theme song to the Brady Bunch and this time Roshad started laughing too. Roshad and Jaedynn finally left the hospital with all their children going to the limo where the driver was waiting inside. He came out of the car to open the door for them and saw all the children.

"Are you starting a basketball team?" the driver asked jokingly.

"No, my friend – a soccer team," Roshad joked with him.

Once they were back at the hotel and in their room, Roshad get dinner started. It was a much smaller kitchen than he was used to but then it was only intended for use several weeks at a time. Regardless, he got the rice started first and was prepping everything to make Fesenjan with Saffron rice and Tahdig. Gloria insisted she would bring dessert. Meanwhile in Harlem, Gloria just got back home from work having made sure all her clients were scheduled early that day so she could be home to make dessert and get ready. Margarita was home with Raphael while Ramon was still at work. Raphael was on the floor crawling around him his little blanket while Margarita was relaxing in Ramon's recliner listening to Spanish radio.

"Afternoon, mija. How was work?" Margarita asked.

"Pretty good," Gloria said and went straight to the little kitchen area where some butter was already in a bowl being brought to room temperature. "How was Raphael today?"

"A little stinker," Margarita said. "I walk away two minutes and the boy pulls on your papa's blanket, makes the remote fall on the floor and scared himself silly. Took forever for him to stop crying."

"Did papa's remote scare you, mijo?" Gloria asked Raphael as she picked him up to give him a hug and a kiss. Raphael made a loud noise but not of distress. "Otherwise, was he good?"

"Yes, he was good," Margarita said. "You get the Tres Leches made; I'll hold him." Gloria handed Raphael over to Margarita, got her hands washed and started creaming the butter and sugar as the oven was coming to temperature. She had the batter fully mixed and was about to pour it into the pan when there was a knock at the door.

"Gloria!" Alex's voice came from the other side.

"You didn't say he was coming over, mija," Margarita said irritably.

"I didn't know he was coming over," Gloria said and put down the bowl so she could answer the door. When she did, Alex was there holding a bag filled with his latest finds. "Did you need something?"

"I'm going to Brooklyn to sell a few things – I thought I'd take Raphael with me," Alex said.

"No, Alex, not today – we have plans and I need Raphael home."

"What plans?" Alex asked, entering the apartment.

"I'm having dinner with a few friends," she said, "and I'm bringing Raphael with me."

"If you're having dinner with friends, just let me take Raphael. I doubt anyone wants to drink with a baby around."

"There won't be any drinking," Gloria said. "Besides, there will be plenty of kids there. Alex, if you want to take Raphael out you need to warn me so I can make sure I'm available."

"Gloria, I don't need you to follow me around," Alex said as he approached Margarita and Raphael. Margarita did not look kindly at Alex but Raphael smiled and reached for him. "There's my little man," Alex smiled and picked Raphael up. "How've you been, mijo?"

"Alex, you've never been alone with Raphael before and frankly, I'm not prepared to try that out right now," Gloria said. "He needs constant attention – you can't leave him for hours and be fine."

"Who said I'd leave him for hours? I can always have Rita look after him worst case scenario."

"Absolutely not," Gloria said in a venomous tone. "We've been over this, Alex: I don't want that woman anywhere near my son. I'd thought you were okay with that."

"Didn't say I wasn't but she's capable of watching a kid for a bit. Hell, she raised me and I'm still alive aren't I?"

"By some miracle," Gloria said and started pouring the batter into the pan. Once it was shoved in the oven and the timer set, she went to the living area so she was standing close to Alex. "I mean it Alex: I don't want her anywhere near Raphael."

"Yeah, yeah, I get it," Alex said and sat on the floor and put Raphael down on his blanket. "So what friend are you going to see?"

"No one you know; just some girls from the salon," Gloria lied. "We're meeting at a hotel and having dinner."

"What restaurant?"

"I don't know yet; I was just responsible for bringing dessert."

"The restaurant can't provide dessert?"

"Everyone wanted me to make Tres Leches, so I made Tres Leches," Gloria said.

"How about I get all that shit sold in Brooklyn and I'll join you?"

"No, Alex; this is a girls and kids night out," Gloria lied. "Are you going to be here on Saturday?"

"I always am aren't I? Also, what are we doing for New Year's?"

"'We' are having some family time," Margarita said. "You are not included in that."

"So what, I don't get to spend New Year's with my son?"

"You didn't spend Christmas with your son; I don't see why you're suddenly complaining," Margarita said.

"No one asked you," Alex said.

"Alex, stop it!" Gloria said. "Look, we'll talk about it later, but today I have to go out. Can we talk about this tomorrow?"

"Fine, we'll talk tomorrow," Alex said. "When do you need to go?"

"As soon as the cake's out of the oven, I'll be getting ready – so another 2 hours," Gloria said.

"Alright," Alex said. Raphael was playing with a rattle so Alex gently tugged on it so the two of them were basically playing tug of war. "And for the record, Margarita, I did spend Christmas with my son. It was just the day after."

"Alex, just drop it please," Gloria said with a sigh. "Shouldn't you get going? It'll take you an hour to get to Brooklyn."

"Murphy can wait; just give me a minute," Alex said, continuing to play with Raphael. He stayed another twenty minutes and it was making Gloria anxious. When he finally did leave, it was after giving Raphael a hug and telling him goodbye. "I'll call you tomorrow. Make sure you answer the phone."

"Call when I'm home from work and I'll answer the phone," Gloria said. "Good luck at the Pawn Shop. I'll talk to you later."

"Sure, talk to you later," Alex said and finally left. Gloria closed the door and took a deep breath.

"Relax, mija. He's still none the wiser," Margarita said.

"I just hope it stays that way," Gloria said as she walked back to the kitchen area. "I swear, if he finds out Roshad and Jaedynn adopted those boys, he'll throw the fit of the century."

"Should've thought of that before he left those little babies without a father," Margarita said and looked at Raphael who was still playing on the floor.

Gloria and Margarita got ready as did Ramon once he returned home from work. Margarita got the cake frosted and covered for travel and once they were ready, they all got on a train to the East Side where the hotel was. Once they made it to the front desk, they called the room to let them know their guests had arrived and went upstairs for dinner. Jaedynn answered the door and gave Gloria a hug then welcomed her parents and Raphael.

"Dinner smells wonderful," Margarita managed.

"Thank you; it should be ready in another half hour," Roshad said and went to welcome their guests. "Dessert smells wonderful. What did you make?"

"Tres Leches cake," Gloria said and got that resting on a spare counter. She saw all the children on the floor and smiled. "Raphael," Gloria said and went to the stroller to pick him up, "su hermanos estan aquí! Quieres conocerlas?"

Raphael didn't answer of course, but he started moaning and groaning as Gloria removed him from the stroller and brought him to the large group of five month old babies. She placed him down and immediately all the children were interested and started to surround Raphael. Kamron and Iman were on the floor with them and Kamron asserted he would take care of everyone and walked over to Raphael sitting behind him. Iman was more interested in playing with her blocks until Ashti picked her up and put her closer to the other children to play.

"So it's official?" Gloria asked Roshad and Jaedynn once the children were occupied.

"Yeah, it's official," Jaedynn said. "We're taking them home to Washington after New Year's."

"Congratulations to you both," Gloria said. "I guess we should really sit down and talk about how we're going to make sure the boys can all see one another."

"Alex still doesn't know right?" Jaedynn asked.

"No, he doesn't know," Gloria said.

"Good. Best to keep it that way," Jaedynn said. "Maybe we can have them visiting for holidays? July will be a must for their birthdays."

"Absolutely," Gloria agreed. "As far as holidays, that will depend. I don't know if you want to travel and leave home for the holidays and I can't send Raphael without Alex getting upset."

"If it's easiest, we're happy to come here," Roshad said. "There is a matter I would like to discuss with you if I may."

"What matter?"

"Do you have Alex paying child support or anything like that?"

"No," Gloria said. "Even if I did, I doubt he'd pay it. He visits, spends some time with Raphael and then goes about his day. It's better than nothing I suppose. He's getting better about how he interacts with Raphael at least."

"Otherwise he's not really helping?"

"No," Gloria said.

"Perezozo," Margarita muttered to herself.

"I ask because I wanted to offer assisting in that sense. Child support I mean," Roshad said.

"You don't have to do that," Gloria said. "You've been generous as it is. It's not up to you to take care of Raphael."

"Please, Gloria, I insist. Even if all I send is a few hundred dollars a month," Roshad said. "Just tell me how much you will need and if anything comes up like medical bills, school supplies when that's needed, clothes – anything you need."

"Really, Roshad, you don't have to do that."

"It's not about whether I have to or not," Roshad said. "I'm in a position to help – please allow me to." Gloria was quiet a moment as she thought about it. She couldn't pretend the extra money wouldn't help, especially for the unexpected.

"Alright," Gloria finally said, "thank you, Roshad."

"It's no trouble. Just tell me what you will need," Roshad said.

"As I recall, the law requires 17% of the father's weekly pay, so if I assume Alex makes around what I do, then that would mean $102 a month," Gloria said.

"Allow me to send you $300 a month at least," Roshad said.

"No, that's far too much," Gloria said.

"Nonsense," Roshad said. "I can send you $300 a month and if anything unexpected comes up, just give me or Jaedynn a call and we'll help you."

"Really, Roshad, $102 is more than generous," Gloria said.

"It's the bare minimum," Roshad said. "I'd never give any of my children the bare minimum. I won't give my sons' brother any less." Again, Gloria was quiet. She felt like she should refuse, but it really was a very tempting offer. Her son deserved to be well taken care of didn't he? He deserved to be happy, healthy and to have access to better in life.

"Alright," Gloria finally said. "$300 a month plus any unexpected necessities or emergencies that come up which we'll play by ear."

"Excellent," Roshad said. "How should I send you the payments?"

"Let me get a P.O Box," Gloria said. "I don't want to risk Alex getting a hold of it somehow."

"Keep us posted," Jaedynn said. "As for the kids visiting, we can start with coming to New York every year for their birthdays and figure out any additional possible days from there."

"Sounds like a plan," Gloria said. "I really do appreciate all your help."

"Really, it's no trouble," Roshad said.

Once dinner was finally ready, they all sat down together and enjoyed the rest of the evening. After dinner was cake, coffee and tea. They only left when all the children were clearly exhausted and it was time to put them to bed. Gloria promised to remain in touch and would relay the address of her P.O. Box once available so Roshad could begin sending support. She offered again that he really didn't need to send so much, but Roshad once again insisted. As they walked down the hall of the hotel, Raphael was sound asleep against Gloria's shoulder drooling her the little towel she'd put on to protect her blouse.

"You make sure to stretch that money," Margarita said as they were walking away. "Mr. Javadi has been very gracious; we don't want to overstep."

"I will," Gloria said.

"Not even Raphael's father and he's doing more for the boy than the deadbeat," Ramon said.

"Please don't bad mouth Alex in front of Raphael," Gloria said. "That's not fair to him."

"Life's not fair, Gloria. Clearly," Ramon said.

"My love, don't be so hard," Margarita said. They got into the elevator and returned to the ground floor. When they stepped outside ready to make their way to the train station, Alex was there. "Mother of God," Margarita muttered irritably.

"Alex? What are you doing here?" Gloria asked.

"I finished up what I needed in Brooklyn and thought I'd check on you," Alex said. "You didn't say your parents were coming to this thing."

"Alex, how did you know where we went?" Gloria asked pointedly.

"I asked around for you," Alex said and looked at Raphael. "Whatever you were up to, he's definitely tuckered out."

"Yes, he had a good time," Gloria said cautiously.

"What do you mean you 'asked around for us'?" Ramon said, getting straight to the point.

"Look, what matters is I came to check on you. Clearly everything's fine, so I can walk you all home," Alex said.

"That won't be necessary," Ramon said. The wind blew and no one thought anything of it, more focused on Alex. But he caught a familiar scent. An irritably familiar scent.

"What's the matter?" Gloria asked when she noticed Alex looked extremely upset all of a sudden.

"Who's this 'friend' you saw?" Alex asked.

"People from the salon. I already told you," Gloria said.

"And do they all happen to wear the same cologne as Jaedynn's golden goose?"

"How…" she asked as she gawked at him, but then got a hold of herself. "Look, Raphael deserves to know his big brother. They brought Kamron in town so they could visit. That's all."

"Oh yeah? And you didn't think maybe I wanted to see my son?"

"I don't have control over that, Alex. You know just as well as I do," Gloria said.

"Well, I don't want Raphael seeing those people," Alex said.

"You're in no position to demand a God damn thing," Ramon said.

"No? I'm his dad," Alex said.

"When it's convenient for you," Margarita bit back.

"Alex, I don't owe you an explanation," Gloria stepped in.

"Like hell you don't," Alex said.

"Like hell I do!" Gloria snapped and the yelling woke Raphael and made his start crying. Gloria cleared her throat to get a hold of herself and tried soothing Raphael.

"Damn it, Gloria; now he's crying," Alex said. That was it. Gloria asked Margarita to hold Raphael as she approached Alex.

"You listen here you rotten son of a bitch: you don't do anything for Raphael. Not a God Damn thing! Don't presume to tell me what I can and can't do with my son or who he can or cannot be around. You don't pay child support, you don't bring him things – you can't even be bothered to be there for his Christening or for Christmas for fuck's sake! Now you want to tell me my son can't see his older brother?! Well, fuck you Alex! You don't call the shots around here!"

"He's my fucking son, Gloria!"

"Then fucking act like it!" Gloria screamed right back. "And I mean really be a father to our son. I don't mean just showing up unannounced when you fucking feel like it. Help take care of Raphael. If you can do that, then maybe I can take your role as his 'father' a little more seriously." Gloria stepped away to take back Raphael. "We're going back home."

"We're not done here, Gloria."

"Oh yes we are," Gloria said back as she continued to try calming Raphael. "I'll see you on Saturday."

This time, Alex said nothing as Gloria and her parents walked away. Alex stayed in the street in front of the hotel absolutely seething. He took a few deep breathes then walked into the hotel about to go up to the front desk to ask for Jaedynn, but then he stopped. He had another idea and instead left the hotel and went across the street to a payphone. He left after placing his call but was back the next morning. As he was waiting, Rita stopped by and relayed news that made Alex's blood boil even further. Back upstairs, Roshad and Jaedynn were getting ready to go to Kevin's apartment. Nadja had flown in and was there with Levi. They'd enjoyed plenty of time alone and even had their own Jewish Christmas involving ordering Chinese food and watching movies together. Even if it hadn't been on Christmas day, that was fine. It was the thought that counted. Levi decided to show off his slow cooker skills and offered to make dinner and have Jaedynn and Roshad over for New Year's. Evalynn was going to be there as well, having flown back in from Washington about the same time Levi did.

Ashti agreed she would look after the children so Jaedynn and Roshad could have a night out but they promised they'd be home by 1 in the morning. Jaedynn made sure there was plenty of breast milk but there was formula available just in case. When they were dressed, the two of them told the kids to be good for Madar Jun and went downstairs planning to just walk to Kevin's apartment since it was only a few blocks away. When they stepped outside, they started walking away from the hotel in the direction of Kevin's apartment.

"So what brings you to New York, Buttercup?" Jaedynn turned around suddenly when she heard Alex's voice as did Roshad.

"What are you doing here?" Jaedynn asked.

"Just thought I'd say hi," Alex said. "So how's Kamron?"

"Kamron is no longer your concern," Roshad said, already holding Jaedynn protectively while keeping his eyes on Alex. "Leave now and I'll resist reporting you for violating the restraining order." Alex just smirked at Roshad but otherwise ignored the comment and returned his attention to Jaedynn.

"So I noticed Gloria leaving here yesterday. I guess the three of you got friendly did you?"

"That's not your business, Alex," Jaedynn said.

"Martin!" Roshad yelled to the doorman at the front. Martin approached when he heard Roshad call for him.

"Is something wrong, sir?" he asked.

"Call the police. There's a restraining order against this man and he's in violation," Roshad said.

"Yes, sir," Martin answered and ran inside to place the call.

"I'll be honest, Jaedynn: I don't much appreciate you socializing with my kid and his mom," Alex said.

"Again, Alex, it's not your business," Jaedynn said. Seconds later, they could hear sirens in the distance.

"Well, shit," Alex said, looking over his shoulder, "that was quick." Alex looked at Jaedynn again. "So what about my other sons?"

"Excuse me?" Jaedynn asked. There was just no way, she thought to herself.

"You heard me, Buttercup. Rita did me a bit of a favor and did some snooping. Found out you and your golden goose apparently adopted them, so don't bother trying to lie to me," Alex said. "Where the hell do you get off?"

"Where do you get off?" Roshad replied. "You abandoned them. You have no right to complain who's home they were taken into."

Alex looked as though he had more to say, but the sirens were getting too close. He swore and ran past Roshad and Jaedynn who stepped aside just in time for him to not bump either of them. The police arrived and spoke with Roshad, Jaedynn and Martin to gather what happened and get the violation on record. Upstairs, Ashti was unaware of what occurred. She was focused on keeping the children in line and making sure they weren't getting to rough with one another in their play. As she watched them, she heard the sound of the window in the master bedroom opening. The children didn't notice, but she certainly did. Ashti turned her head in the direction of the bedroom and opened her eyes. She smelled the sweet scent of a vampire and immediately put herself in the hallway blocking the bedroom and living room area. Ashti watched a woman with paled tan skin and thick black hair step towards the door but she screeched when their eyes met and she had to step back aside.

"Who are you?!" Ashti demanded.

"Who are you?!" the woman said back, remaining away from the door.

"You answer me! Who are you?" Ashti demanded again.

"Rita Vayez," the woman finally answered. Ashti started approaching the bedroom where Rita was hiding.

"So you're that horrible creature's mother," Ashti said. She made it around the door frame, eyes meeting with Rita's again making her screech until the pain finally stopped when Rita closed her eyes. Ashti took a hold of Rita's shirt and started pushing her back towards the window.

"Madar Jun?" Kamron said, having run to the doorway hearing the screaming. Ashti turned her head, closing her eyes, towards Kamron. Rita took advantage, breaking Ashti's thumb so she could escape while Ashti screamed. Rita got out of the window and after she did, Ashti slammed the window shut and put her thumb back onto her hand. "Madar Jun?!" Kamron said again, now panicking and standing beside her. "Are you okay?!"

"I'm fine, Azizam," Ashti said. "Close your eyes." Kamron did as he was told and Ashti opened hers so she could look Kamron over to make sure he was unharmed.

She picked him up and ran to the other room and the children were still there, also unharmed. She called Kevin's apartment assuming Roshad and Jaedynn had already arrived but Levi told them they hadn't arrived yet. She told Levi to call Kevin right away. She then called the front desk and found out Jaedynn and Roshad were still outside. She demanded to speak with Roshad and told him what had happened. Needless to say, Jaedynn and Roshad did not end up leaving the hotel and returned upstairs to make sure all the kids were okay. They let Levi and Nadja know they couldn't make it out that night and Jaedynn, unsure what else to do, called Gloria and told her more or less what happened, excluding the mention of Rita breaking into the hotel room. For obvious reasons, Jaedynn and Roshad expressed they did not want to return to New York. At least not any time soon. They agreed they would figure out a way to let the boys visit one another, it just wouldn't be in the city. She felt awful about what happened and apologized profusely no matter how many times Jaedynn assured this wasn't her fault.

After what happened, Jaedynn and Roshad couldn't get out of New York fast enough. They packed everything, Roshad checked them out of the hotel and they went to the airport to leave on the next plane back to Washington. It was a challenge having five infants and two toddlers on a plane but they made it work. The stewardess would come over whenever the babies would cry and do her best to help Jaedynn sooth them. Once they landed, they went straight home. Of course, word of what happened spread like wildfire so Nathan and Ada María were outside waiting for them by the time they made it home. Nathan and Ada María stayed until nightfall making sure Jaedynn was alright. When she and Roshad got their twins and three new boys into their cribs for the night, though, the last twenty four hours washed away and she smiled.

"They look so peaceful," Jaedynn said and Roshad hugged her.

"They do," Roshad said. "To sleep that soundly: it's enviable." He kissed Jaedynn's cheek. "I'm sorry Alex ruined this experience."

"He didn't ruin it," Jaedynn said. "It was just a road block. We'll work something out with Gloria so the children and still see one another. We'll just need to get creative."

"We'll make it work," Roshad said and kissed her cheek again. He looked down the row and all the babies sleeping soundly in their cribs. It actually felt natural to see so many. "I'm happy we adopted them."

"I am too," Jaedynn smiled and leaned her head against Roshad's shoulder. "I love you."

"I love you too," Roshad smiled and kissed her cheek again. "Come; we should let them sleep."

Roshad and Jaedynn left the babies' room retreating to their own for some well deserved sleep that lasted all of two hours before Navid started crying. When Navid started crying, all the others followed suit. Ashti helped them tend to the children until they all finally fell asleep again. No one got much sleep that night but they wouldn't have it any other way.

*Author's Note* I want to send a big thank you to AHybirdTinkerbell. She wrote a fanfic for Ahiga and Nesia that she posted recently and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Definitely check it out if you're interested!