A new beginning

by GamIttod

What if Nessie didn't grow up with the Cullens? What if she was taken away as a child and she doesn't remember anyone from Forks or La Push? What happens when she accidently comes home? This is a story about Nessie and Jacob, and all the people around them. How they find each other as grown ups, and how they fall in love even though everything is against them.

The air was cold around her as she took a deep breath, and let it out. The cold was unusual, after so many years in Mexico and Iraq, she was used to the warm air. But the forest in Washington state was cold in the evening, even during the summer. The forest was also unusually quiet. She could not decide if she liked it or not. In a way, it was beautiful and she had the perfect place and time to think and heal her soul. On the other hand, it was very lonely. And Nessie was not used to loneliness. At least not in the physical sense of loneliness, she always had people around her. She even shared her room with her sister, and back in the days she was sharing with her brother. As a soldier, she always shared a room with other people as well. As a nurse, and later as a psychologist she was consistently around someone. Even as a music manager, she did not have many quiet moments, her musicians were always around her, like a bunch of baby ducks around their mother. She smiled at that thought.

She didn't mind actually, she was a people person after all. She lived to help others, to lead, to teach, to manage. Everything she did, her studies, her work - it was for others. That kept her going in life. But she had to be alone for a while. To heal from her wounds, to rest and get herself together - even this was for others. You have to put your own oxygen mask first, before you can help others do the same. She knew she had to heal before she could help to heal others. She was running aways from the problems and pain, and she knew it would catch up with her with time. Running aways is never a solution. She took a vacation, which she never did before - and left. Left her family, her jobs, because this was a road she had to take alone. Certain things in life take some alone time, like healing from the loss of her baby, and the betrayal of her ex-boyfriend. She loved her friends and family so much, she wanted to be fully with them. Emotionally, not just physically.

She was so lost and hurt after losing him. She was working hard, trying to keep her mind as busy as possible, but it was just the type of coping mechanism that did not work for long. And she did this before, and it didn't work out too well. After her abuela died, she literally went to Iraq and became a soldier, just to run away from her problems.

She didn't want to do something reckless because of her pain.

That is why she had made the decision to leave from work, and she's been traveling in the past month, all alone, camping the woods, driving the road aimlessly. It's been incredibly hard, for someone like her - who lives for others, to be alone with herself. But she needed it, and after the first two weeks, she started to feel better. She was writing a lot, almost filled an entire diary with thoughts and new songs. It's been her therapy, and even though she wasn't happy yet, she was calm and collected.

This night in the forest was especially weird though. She doesn't remember ever visiting this region of the country, she was in a forest near a small town called Forks. But she had a feeling, like it was familiar. The lush green trees, the rain and the moss, the damp air. It was so familiar, but she couldn't remember why.

She drank the remaining bit of canned soup, which was her dinner, checked her phone - still no signal. She sighed, because this means she will have to go down from the forest tomorrow and call her sister from there. It's been two days since they talked, and she knew she was worried about her. And it took a toll on her as well, she really missed her little sister. And even though she looked and acted like a sixteen year old now, she was still worried how she managed without her.

With a smile on her face, she put out the little fire and went to her tent. It was already eleven PM, so it was time to sleep. She took one last look at the beautiful stars before she closed her tent, and went to sleep while wondering, why is this forest so familiar to her.

Next morning she woke up to the singing of the birds. It made her smile. She loved the forest so much, it made her calm to be in nature. She had decided that she had enough canned soup and pasta in the past week, so it's time to find a coffee shop for some fresh coffee and bakery goods. After packing her tent and backpack, she went down on the little road that was leading to her truck at the start of the forest.

It was almost eight in the morning when she came across a beautiful meadow in the middle of the forest. It took her breath away, and not just because it was beautiful, but it was also so familiar, she could swear she has been here before. She just couldn't rack her brain when. She was mesmerized by the flower, and how the sun shone through the trees, creating a little stage of sunlight in the middle of the flowery meadow. She walked there, enjoying the sun on her skin. She really loved the sun, it was one of the things which she missed a lot from Mexico. Before she could really lose herself in the sun and in her thoughts, she heard growling from the bushes behind her. She spun around and found herself in front of two very angry and big wolves.

She instantly realized, these are not normal wolves. They are bigger and stronger, and their eyes are so intelligent. Human eyes. These are shapeshifters. She panicked for a minute, she knew she smelled like a vampire, but only a little bit, she has a pulse, a beating heart, and she is even tanned a bit from living in Mexico. This is probably the reason why they didn't rip her to sheds, but they were still growling and circling around her. She slowly put up her hands in surrender.

Hi. - she said shakily. - I am sorry for trespassing, I did not know there was a pack in this region. But I don't mean to harm anyone. I am not killing people, not drinking human blood, I am not entirely a vampire. I am half human, and I was just leaving the forest, I swear. Can you guys maybe change back so we can talk?

They have stopped circling around her, and the two wolves just looked at each other in confusion. She knew that look, her type or let's just say, her kind was rare. It's not surprising that they never met a hybrid before. They looked back at her, then one of them sat down in front of her and the other sat down behind her. She was quiet for a moment. This was weird. They stopped growling, so maybe they were willing to listen to her and let her go, but it didn't seem like they wanted to change back to their human form, so they did not feel safe with her. She was an experienced soldier, and also she was very experienced with the supernatural as well - this was a middle ground, and they did not know how to decide so they were waiting for someone. Probably their alpha, and she honestly did not want to meet him. She should be on the road by now.

Okay. - she slowly started. - I have nothing against you guys, moreover I really love wolves. But I really need a coffee, and I need to be on the road. So.. - she started to take a few steps back, initiating that she is going to leave, but the wolf behind her stood up and started to growl again.

Wonderful. - she sighed and stopped. - Listen, my brother is a shapeshifter as well. I know you can communicate in your thoughts, and you are probably calling for your alpha. I get it, but really, it's unnecessary, I am not going to harm anyone and I really just want to leave.

The wolves raised their heads, and they had a puzzled expression on their faces. It's funny how the human emotions can still reflect on their faces, even in their wolf form. She knew that what she said was confusing, how can a half vampire and a shapeshifter be siblings? Obviously, not by blood relation, but she wasn't in a mood to explain it.

Before she could have time to think about her options, she heard running. It was another wolf, and she lost her breath when she saw him. He was huge, and had the most beautiful russet coloring she had ever seen on a wolf before. He was as big as her brother, so that meant he was the alpha. She took a deep breath as he stopped before her, and looked into his eyes. There is a chance he won't kill her. Maybe he just wants to understand what she is, at least she was hoping that is the case. She was a good fighter, but still she can't take down a pack of wolves on her own. She was at his mercy.

As she looked into his eyes, she took a sharp breath. It was brown, but so dark, it was almost black. And it was beautiful, and familiar. Why is everything so familiar to her here?

She was sure the wolf someone recognized her, she could see it in his eyes. She could see so many emotions in those eyes. Hurt, surprise, confusion, love, tenderness… Then he bowed her head in front of her.

She was definitely confused now. What is this place? Who are these wolves? She had met with wolves before, even a few alphas, but they never acted like this.

I am sorry, but do I know you? I have never been here before, or I don't remember it at least. But I really don't mean to harm anyone, I know I smell like a vampire, but I don't live like one. I don't feed on humans, and I would really like to leave. So if you don't mean to kill me, then … - but she couldn't finish the sentence, because the wolf suddenly lifted his head up and looked at her again. He looked hurt, like she had slapped him or something. She was speechless. What's up with this guy?

Jacob's POV.

Last night was terrible. Embry had convinced me and Quil to go out with him to a club again. He is determined to heal our heartbreak with alcohol and hook ups. It hasn't been working. Ever since Nessie disappeared, part of me has died. The same with Quil.

And I keep having that dream. 14 years ago, when she was only one years old, although with her growth sprout she looked and acted like a 7 years old. That day in the forest, in the meadow. I was babysitting her, Edward and Bella were finally okay with it. She was playing with flowers, she was such a lovely kid. And out of nowhere, they came and took her away from us. I fought so hard. I would have died for her. For awhile, I though I did. There were so many of them, leeches. And I was alone, and when the pack and Cullens arrived she was gone, and I was left there broken in my own blood.

I should have died. I could not protect her, that was my job in life. To protect her, and I have failed. I should have died, but no, Dr. Cullen patched me up. Two days later I woke up, physically healthy again, with an empty hole in my soul.

The Cullens were furious. Blaming me of course, and they were right. I should have protected her. We started to search for her, the pack, the Cullens and all their vampire friends, but we never found her. Not even a trace of her smell. Nothing.

For a while they thought it was the Volturi, that sick vampire clan who tried to kill her before, but they denied it, and to prove it they have even let the Cullens to look up their place for her. They would have smelled her if she was there, but no, she wasn't.

I thought I was gonna die from the pain. She was my imprint, my everything. I couldn't imagine a life without her.

Years went by, and I never gave up. We searched the whole world. After four years, the Cullens held a funeral for her; they wanted to close that chapter of their lives. How nice of them. I never went… I couldn't let go, and I knew she was not dead. She couldn't be, and I just felt deep inside that she is alive. No one can entirely comprehend the imprint connection, but I was sure that she is not dead. She is out somewhere. I almost went mad looking for her, my family - my father and sisters had to intervene and convince me to keep going with my life. I fought this, but eventually I had to keep myself busy, and people needed me back in La Push. So I have stayed.

I had to be the alpha of my pack, it was my responsibility now since Sam decided to stop shifting after a while. I started my own business as a mechanic, I built a house in the woods, and helped out with everyone who needed me in La Push. But I felt hollow and empty. I have disappeared for a month every year, I kept trying to find her, and I came back feeling even more empty.

That is where Embry came in with his wonderful idea of me dating. I knew I can't do that to a nice girl, who is looking for something serious. I could never give a girl what she wants, because I don't have my heart, it's empty. My soulmate was lost, I was not the same, and I could never love someone fully.

All I could do was some one night stands with random girls, but that actually left me feeling more empty. Embry has a good heart, but very stupid ideas sometimes.

So I left last night, after kissing a girl on the dancefloor and feeling empty, and decided to get drunk on my own and sleep. Alone.

Which brings me today, to this wonderful morning, where the sun is shining, my head hurts like hell, and I feel disgusting.

I need a shower, and a run.

I felt much better in my wolf form. The air was fresh, my headache was gone, and I was running. I wish I could just run to her…

Jake, we need you. Now. - I heard Seth's voice in my head. He and Leah was patrolling last night and they were supposed to finish it up around this time.

Why?

We have found a leech. - came Leah's angry voice. I felt my anger as it started to rise.

No! Not exactly. She is partly human.. Jake, I think it's Nessie. - came Seth's voice.

I have never run so fast in my life.

Just in a few minutes I could see them. And there she was, in the middle of the meadow where I have last seen her 14 years ago. Just very different now. She wasn't a little girl anymore. She was a woman.

A gorgeous one. Long legs, perfect curves, tight jeans and a long-sleeve black t-shirt hugging her around. Her hair was the same brownish-reddish color, up in a high ponytail. I stood before her and looked into her eyes, and I knew for sure.

This was Nessie. My Nessie. My imprint. The same beautiful chocolate brown eyes started back at me that I have dreamt with so many times. And her smell… a bit sweet like vampires, but not entirely. She always had a unique smell, like flowers, vanilla and earth.

I can't believe she is back… my imprint is back.

It's her. - I said to the others, and bowed down before her. Leah and Seth took back a few steps to give us space.

I am sorry, but do I know you? I have never been here before, or I don't remember it at least. But I really don't mean to harm anyone, I know I smell like a vampire, but I don't live like one. I don't feed on humans, and I would really like to leave. So if you don't mean to kill me, then … - she started in her beautiful voice, which has also changed into a deeper velvety tone. Wait.. what did she just say? Kill her?! I snapped my head up, and that's when I noticed the confusion in her eyes. She doesn't recognize me.

I slowly went back behind a tree, took a deep breath and changed into my human form. My shorts were on my ankle, so I quickly pulled them on me and walked out in front of her. She looked shocked.

Nessie? - I did not say her name in such a long time.

You know me? - she looked surprised.

Yes… you don't remember me? It's me, Jacob.

I am sorry.. you look familiar, you really do. But no, I can't really place you.

Seth and Leah have decided to also change and come back to us.

Maybe you are wrong, Jake. You just want it to be her. It can be another half-leech. - sneered Leah.

Yeah, because there are so many half-leeches around here with a name like that. - answered Seth before I could growl at Leah. I think I recognize my own imprint, thank you very much.

Nessie. - I turned to her again, and started to walk until I was just an inch away. She smelled so good. I gently touched her chin, and it felt like I am alive again.

Sorry. - she gently moved away from my touch. - I have to go.

Nessie's POV.

I have been in some really weird situations before, but this one … I just didn't know how to handle it. I am in the middle of the forest, with three shapeshifters who looks at me like I came back from the dead. This gorgeous man knows my name. Besides the point of course, but I have never seen such a good looking man before, and I have been with a few. He is tall, masculine, very sharp features, his hair black and it's short but not too short, long enough to put a few strands behind his ear. And his eyes are this gorgeous shade of black and brown. The way he says my name, the way he just touched me…it warmed up my body. But I don't know him, or at least I don't remember him and I really need to leave and call my sister now.

Wait! - he touched my arm and I turned around. - You really don't remember me? - he seemed so hurt. I didn't want to cause him pain, but I just didn't have any memory of him, just this feeling that he is familiar. I slowly shaked my head.

Stay. Please. Let's talk, I will explain everything to you. I have… we missed you. - he was whispering at the end, and he had this pained expression on his face, then he cleared his throat. - Have you found your parents too?

Can this day be even more shocking?

Parents? - I said dumbfoundedly. - I don't have parents. - expect my psycho of a father, but I really don't want to talk about this with him.

Yes, you have. They are vampires, Edward and Bella Cullen, and they are missing you as well, with the whole Cullen clan.

No. Listen, I think you are really confusing me with someone. My name is Vanessa Marquez, nicknamed Nessie and I live in Mexico, with my brothers and sister. My mother died, and I really don't want to talk about my father, but he is absent in my life fortunately. - I took a deep breath. He was looking at me so intensely, my skin was on fire. - And I have to go, I need a coffee and a donut and I have to call my sister, so it was nice meeting you.

I started to walk away again, he didn't catch me this time, but he started to speak.

You were named Renesmee Cullen. Your mother Bella was pregnant with you when she was a human, your father is a vampire. You were born here, in Forks, your mother was changed into a vampire right after your birth, and you lived here for a year until you were kidnapped.

I stopped abruptly, but I couldn't turn around to face him. I heard him walking close to me.

I know this, because I know you. And I knew you mother, and you have her eyes. I could never forget your eyes, Nessie. - he sighed, and I slowly turned around.

I was kidnapped? - I asked slowly, and quietly. I just couldn't wrap my head around it. He looked so kind, his eyes were full with understanding, curiosity and something so intense I just couldn't place.

Let's get you some coffee and donuts. - he smiled slowly. - And then we can talk. How about that? - he seemed nervous, and I wanted to reject him first, but then I realized, I have some things in my past I could never explain or understand. I just never wanted to deal with them. Maybe he can help me with that, and I feel safe around him. Which is rare, so it must be a good sign. I nodded and he started to lead me down the path in the forest. The other two shapeshifters stayed behind us.

After putting my camping stuff on my truck, we found a really good coffee shop. I have ordered three donuts and a latte, and he did the same. We sat down in a quiet booth, luckily the place was very empty. I felt naked under his stare, it was so intense.

Okay Jacob, so, who are you? Who am I according to you? - I raised an eyebrow at him. He looked nervous.

My name is Jacob Black. I am the alpha of the pack here in La Push. I am a mechanic, and what is important for you is that I was your mother's best friend while she was a human. I was present at your birth, and … - he paused, like he wasn't sure how to continue. - Saw you as a child a lot. - he finished it lamely.

What makes you so sure that I am that child? - I regretted it as soon as I asked it. He looked hurt and annoyed.

I know it's you. - he was determined, and his husky voice sent a shiver down my spine. - And you were taken away… 14 years ago. What happened to you? - his voice changed from determined to desperate.

I… - I still wasn't sure if I could talk about this with him, but he looked so sad that my story just started to spill out of me. - I was raised by a psychopath, named Klan. He is partly vampire, partly wolf. I actually don't have many memories before my first year, he always said I had an accident… that's where I lost my memories. I only remember living and growing up with him. He kept me, and others in an underground facility. He was training us, kind of like his soldier. I knew he kidnapped some of the wolves… that is how I got my brother, Alex. But I always thought I was his daughter. - I kept quiet for a minute. I always wished I wasn't his daughter. - Anyway, when I turned seven.. which was seventeen in my case, I had a chance to escape, and I did it with my baby sister. Ever since that, I live with my brother who found his remaining pack in Mexico.

He was quiet for a long time, so I started to eat my donuts.

Why do you think your name is Vanessa?

The only thing I remembered waking up from my accident was that I am called Nessie. When we escaped, I needed to live in the human world.. you know, go to school, have an ID, job, stuff like that.. I needed an official name. Nessie is clearly a nickname. I just couldn't remember how I got it, so we brainstormed with Alex, and came up with Vanessa. Nessa.. Nessie.. it seemed logical. And I have been using it for the past 7 years.

Okay. - he said, but mostly just to himself. Then something clicked, and he looked up at me surprised. - You are eating.

Yes, I am. - I said while I laughed. - It's a pretty good donut.

Yes, no … I mean. - he was so confused, it was adorable. - As a child, you didn't like human food at all. And you looked.. more pale, like your family. Also shouldn't you be like seventeen? If you stopped aging? Because you look like you are in your twenties.

Yes, well. After leaving father… - I quickly paused. He wasn't my father. It just hit me. He abducted me, like he did with the others. - I mean… - I cleared my throat, and started a new sentence. - After leaving Klan, and living with humans, I started to like human food. And after high school, I just didn't want to look like a 17 forever. How am I supposed to work and raise my siblings like that? So I have found a way to.. age myself, and my pale tough and glowy vampire skins just transformed to a more human-like skin. Which can tan, by the way. - I added with a smile. - But enough about me, I need to know more about my so-called family. You said they are vampires? - I asked cautiously. I didn't have a good relationship with vampires. I hate the way they lived, the bloodthirst, the fake beauty, basically everything about them, and that part of me as well.

Yes, the Cullens. They are special, in a way that they don't feed on humans, just animals. They have been living here for a while, and had a deal with our pack that if they don't come to our territory, and don't hurt people they can stay. Carlisle, the father of the group is a doctor, her wife Esme looks the oldest, she is a very kind motherly lady. There is Emmett and Rosalie, they are a couple such as Alice and Jasper. The last two have some special abilities, Alice can see the future and Jasper can manipulate emotions. And your father, Edward, he is a mindreader. He met your mother in high school, when she was still human. Bella fell for him fast, they got married after graduation, and had you. That's the short version, they can probably give you more information. I have her number. Bella, I mean. We could speak with her. - he smiled at me slowly.

This was a lot.

I am not really ready for that. I grew up thinking my mother died giving birth to me. I thought my father is the psychopath who raised me to.. - I didn't want to finish the sentence. - Anyway. Did my mother know about vampires as a human?

Yeah, she figured it out. They told her everything after that. And she was in trouble most of the time, they had to protect her from some leeches… vampires, sorry. - he corrected himself quickly. I laughed.

It's okay. I don't like vampires… it's one of the reasons why I want to know more about them before contacting them. I just don't feel comfortable around them, all my memories are bad which are connected to vampires, and I hate their lifestyle and.. - I took a sip of my coffee. - I have always been more comfortable around humans and shapeshifters.

I am happy to hear that. - he smiles at me, and for a moment I am lost. This man is gorgeous.

So. - I cleared my throat. - She was okay with them being vampires? - he snorted.

Yeah, and she wanted to be like them.

You are kidding. - I looked at him seriously.

No, I am not. She really wanted forever with your dad.

She would give up everything? - I could not imagine that. Giving up having children, having a career, getting old… to live like a stone with a bloodthirst forever?

Yeah. - he looked uncomfortable.

She must have really loved him. How old was she?

Still does. She was eighteen when they got married, and nineteen when you were born and they changed her.

Let me guess, they wanted to change her after the wedding but I came in as a surprise. - I said with a sad smile.

Something like that. But you were a pretty good surprise. - he smiled with that full-hearted kind smile again. It made me feel safe and warm.

How do you come in the picture?

What do you mean? - he seemed anxious again.

Well, you were just randomly friends with a bunch of vampires? And you were happy that a hybrid was born near your lands? It seems weird.

I was friends with your mother. Best-friends. I… - he took a pause. - .. was angry with her choice, but I still wanted to help her. And first we were afraid of you.. I mean we didn't know what a half vampire meant. But after you were born we knew you were harmless. - it seemed like he wanted to say something else as well but he stopped talking.

Jacob's POV.

I can't believe she is sitting so close to me. I knew she was alive. With every minute and every word, I just feel more alive again. She doesn't have a white porcelain skin like she had as a child, she actually had a bit of a tan, and her face is so naturally beautiful. I always knew she would be a beautiful woman, but I could never imagine her being this gorgeous.

But she has no memory of me. Or her family. I have to build up a relationship with her from the start, and I don't want to scare her away, it seems like she doesn't know if she can trust me or not. I have to take things slow, and make her feel safe. That is my job after all.

So. You said you have brothers and a baby sister? - she smiled at the question.

Yes. Which reminds me, I need to call her. I promised, sorry. It's only gonna take a minute. - she grabbed her phone and walked away. I sighed watching her. I should call Bella. I know it's killing them too, even though the other Cullens made that fake funeral and tried to forget her. Bella and Edward never could. They deserved to know. But she shouldn't be pressured. She needs time. Just as I decided this she walked back and sat down at her place.

Sorry. It's hard on her, that I am away. It's hard for me, I have raised her since she was born. She is a hybrid like me, I was seven when she was born. Klaus said she is her daughter as well.. I am not sure anymore, but she was born in the facility where he kept us. Her mother died right after, and I begged him to let me name and raise her. She is so sweet and beautiful, and she is turning seven which is seventeen in her case this September. I grew up fast, but it's still weird to experience it with her. - she smiled like a caring mother who talks about her kid. It looked good on her.

She is lucky to have you.

Well, I don't know about that. - she smiled. - And my brothers, Alex and Carl. Alex was just thirteen years old, when Klan brought him to us. He never forgot his family. I don't know what happened to me that I did… - she looked so sad and confused for a moment, that I had to physically restrain myself not to hug her in my arms. - Anyway, he was my rock. He is.. my rock. We were put into the same cell. Klan had other reasons for that, first he wanted to trigger him to change into a wolf as soon as possible. He did, at fourteen. And second, he wanted us to.. mate. - she finished it awkwardly. A surge of jealousy hit me.

What?

Well, I have said earlier that Klan is partly vampire, partly shapeshifter. The only way that is possible, with a hybrid mother and a shapeshifter father. For now, he is the only one of his kind. And he is really powerful. He kind of wants to build an army… so he abducted shapeshifters, and hybrids. Putting them together as children, hoping they will mate when they grow up. He also has tons of vampires working for him. - she finished it quietly, and she looked like she regrets sharing so much.

I felt anger bubbling up inside of me. This was sick. He.. took her away, to use her in some weird sick breeding process? Took shapeshifters away? Innocent children? I saw red. But before I had a chance to explode, she put her hands on top of mine at the table. I instantly felt calmer. She was smiling kindly.

It is sick. I know. But it backfired, because we got close in a different way. We became siblings, and we have been brother and sister ever since. He could escape a year earlier than me, I did not leave because … my sister was born on the same day, and I could not leave her. But after a year we had a chance to escape, and he found the remains of his pack near New Mexico. They accepted us there, he still had his grandparents and his little brother Carl, who became my little brother as well. - she was smiling again. - They are my family. Grandpa was a shapeshifter actually, for 200 years, then he met grandma, imprinted her, and stopped shifting.

You know about imprinting? - I was shocked.

Yes, of course. I do live among wolves. - she was talking about it like it's so natural. I couldn't speak.

You haven't even met any other packs, am I right?

No. - I felt awkward again. I never even give any thought about other packs.

Well, there are a few. - she smiled in her cup mysteriously.

But I couldn't think about other wolves. I could only think about her, and what she's been through.

You.. grow up in a cell? - I asked quietly. Her smile disappeared.

Kind of. - she whispered. And I just tightened my hold on her hand, which I was still holding. - But just for a while.. and the cell wasn't the worst part of it. The trainings, the punishments..

What punishments? - my whole body was stiff.

He tortured and beat us up when we disappointed him. - she was whispering again, and she drew her hands back.

I felt her pain. I was devastated. She went through torture.. because I couldn't protect her.

Nessie's POV.

Jacob looks sick. Did I really shock him so much? He doesn't even know the details, and probably never would. It's not something I talked about a lot. But I am over it now, I went through a lot but I also healed from a lot, he shouldn't look so worried.

I am okay. You don't have to worry. - I forced out a smile. - It was a long time ago.

And what have you been up to.. since you escaped? - he asked with a shaky smile.

Well, I went to high school for a year, it was my senior year, but it was fun. I didn't want to at first, but abuela insisted that I should have a little bit of childhood at least. She was raising Carl, because Alex's parents died protecting him when Klan took him away, so she was a big help with my sister as well, she basically teached me how to be a mother. But also insisted that I stay in the sister position, and enjoy my young years. I won a musical scholarship thing, when I could spend a summer at Julliard with a mentor. That was fun, but when I came back, Abuela was sick. She had cancer, so I have started to work in a bar, because we were low on many anyway. And started to learn to become a nurse, mainly so I would be able to take care of her at home. She was close to ninety at that time, so the doctors didn't promise us much hope. - the pain is still there, when I talk about this. I love her so much. - So yeah… it took her away in half a year. After that I couldn't handle the grief very well. So I went and enlisted as a soldier.

You did what?! - he sounded angry. I laughed at him.

Yes… I was devastated, and all I could think of was how to help people..how to save them. I was trained to kill basically. Alex too. Why not make use of it? He came with me. We finished the training a lot sooner than others, and were sent out with a special team to Iraq. I was there for a year. - I looked down at my coffee, and started counting slowly. The images of the war, the dead bodies, the friends I lost, all those innocent people… I started to see them as a flashback. I thought I was over my war PTSD, but it seems like the last few months have brought back a lot of stuff.

You okay? - his voice was so gentle, I looked up and for a moment I was speechless. This man had such beautiful, caring eyes.

Sure. - I cleared my throat. - I just remembered some stuff. The war… it's been tough.

Are you still in the army?

No. I've been kicked out actually. - he looked so confused I had to laugh. - I've been in a speciality force, and our job was to track down big terrorist groups who were dealing with drugs and… children. And they were hiding out in the middle of a forest, which was their base.. they collected all their supplies there. So the order was, to bomb the place. Kill everyone and destroy everything with it. Me and my team, we were watching from a near mountain, waiting for the bomb… that is when I saw, that they have children there. They were using them to sell the drug, or just slaving them.. selling them as prostitutes, or worse. I saw some really shitty stuff over there… anyway, I tried to call of the bomb. But the order was clear, even with the children there… they said casualties happen in a war. Well, long story short… I didn't agree. Went down with a few guys from the team, we had 10 minutes before the bomb hits the village.. but we manage to save all the children in time. I've got injured, and because I went against orders and endangered the other soldiers.. I was kicked out. - I took a deep breath. - It was okay, I've actually realized during the rescue that I don't want to kill anymore.. even if it's bad guys. I want to save people, especially children who are orphaned and traumatized. So after I came home I finished my nursing training, and started to work at a hospital.

He was nodding slowly, but it seemed like he was doing it for himself. I raised an eyebrow at him.

Sorry. - he smiled. - It is a lot to take in.. I remember you as a… little girl.

Well, I am definitely not a little girl anymore.

He slowly moved his gaze all over me, I felt a grin spreading across my face. He noticed that he was checking me out, and awkwardly looked out of the window and cleared his throat.

How did you find a way to age?

Well, I just stopped drinking blood altogether.

That simple? - he looked shocked.

No, not that simple. - I smiled. - If I don't drink blood at all, I get sick. One small cup per month was enough for me to keep me fit and young with my human food diet as well, but after I decided I want to age, I just stopped, and it was like experiencing a drug withdrawal. I was so sick, I had all kinds of illnesses, I was weak and tired all the time, it took six months of suffering, and then I got better. And slowly started to age. I was almost entirely human for 4 years.

How did you know it would work? - he seemed so intrigued.

I didn't. - I smiled. - It was an experiment. My brother thought I was actually gonna die a few times. I did look like I was dying. - I laughed at the memory, but the look on his face made me stop.

You risked your life to be more human?

Of course I did. It was important for me. And I have risked my life several times before, it's no big deal. - I shrugged, and he just shook his head.

You got into trouble a lot, I assume.

What is lot? - I grinned and he just shook his head again, but the corner of his mouth was turning into a smile.

You said you were basically a human for 4 years…what happened?

Oh. - my smile disappeared. - Well, I didn't want to age too much before I actually live a little, you know technically I am 15. Although, I do live like 25. It is ideal. I can work, run my own business, I don't look like a child but I am also not old. I was planning to stay like this for a decade, until I am actually 25 and then start aging again..

Run your own business? - his left eyebrow shoot up.

I have a music record company and a non-profit organization. - I said with a confident smile. That is something I am proud of at least.

Wow. - he was stunned. - That sounds cool. How did that happen?

Well, it's a long story. But my heart always went out for orphans and abused children, probably because I was one as well. Anyway, I wanted to start an organization which helps children who doesn't have a home or who been abused severely, an organization which works better than the orphanages and the childcare system… but I needed money for that, of course I gathered supporters, but that was still not enough to fund everything so when I started to write songs and sell them to artists.. I realized that I could make a lot more money If I would also manage famous pop stars and their music, so I started to build up a music record studio and management, and after a year or so I could start my organization as well.

He just sat there looking at me with wide eyes. I felt a blush coming to my face, which was weird because it's been years since I last blushed. Growing up with boys, working in a hospital, living with the army.. these things train a girl in a different way. She wasn't the cute innocent blushing type.

You are amazing. - he whispered.

I am not, but thank you. - I smiled at him.

Jake's POV

I watched her as she slowly lifted her mug, and took a sip. She was so beautiful. So amazing. I could see the features that she had as a child, her eyes, the auburn color of her hair, but everything else changed so much. She has grown up. She was a woman. Her face was a beautiful heart shape form, her mouth was cherry red, and very kissable.

Wow. Did I just seriously think that? She is too young. It's too soon to think like that.

But I knew that thought was useless, when my eyes automatically wandered down to her cleavage, which was impressive even in a normal shirt. She had just the perfect curls. I sighed and looked away. This is a beautiful woman. Not a girl. My imprint.

What are you smiling about? - she asked with curiosity. I didn't even realize I was smiling. It's been so long since I last smiled, one look at her, and I can't stop doing it.

I am just really glad you are here. - I said honestly. She seemed confused by this. I need to get my shit together, she cannot know about the imprint yet. She went through so much, and she needs to meet her parents first.

Why ?

A lot of people were heartbroken when you disappeared. I was supposed to take care of you and… - I took a deep breath. No. I can't talk about that day without revealing too much emotion. She will definitely know then. I looked into her eyes. She was studying me with a curious look, then she shook her head and let out a big exhale.

I can't stay long. I was supposed to be on the road this morning.

Where are you heading? - I heard the panic in my own voice. She can't just disappear again. I just got her back.

Well, I am on a holiday… or a healing journey. Not sure what to call it. - she laughed awkwardly. - I took two months off from my jobs because I needed to be alone, and to heal from a few… stuff. So I was just traveling and camping in the country, spending two or three days at one place, and then moving to the next one. I have one more week before I need to be at home in New Mexico. - she clearly didn't want to go deeper with this topic.

I took a moment to study her. She went through so much, even though she told me a lot of things I know it's just the surface. For example what she needs to get through, why she need this… healing journey, or whatever. I am afraid to ask more right now, she is already overwhelmed. But I need to grab my chance and convince her to spend this week here in La Push with me. Maybe her memories will come back if she gets to know me and the place better.

Listen, if you still have a week, why don't you spend it here? I could take you to your old house, where you were born. Tell you more stories. Maybe introduce you to a few people you knew as a child? We can also call your parents. They are good people. I mean… vampires. Trust me, I hate vampires too and if they would be any danger to you I would never recommend it. - she was quiet and kept studying me.

You really want to leave without answers or memories about your family?

Blood doesn't make a family. - she sounded so much older now. - Dedication, love, understanding, connection… all those things do. These vampires you talk about… they are not my family. I don't remember them at all, and to be honest I am still not entirely sure I believe you about them. My family is in New Mexico.

Okay, so maybe mentioning the Cullens as her family wasn't the best idea.

Fine, I am sorry. I get that. But… are you not curious at all where you come from? - I saw the sparkle in her eyes, and it took all my strength not to grin at her. I had her, she was curious, she can't just let this go and move forward.

I agree to stay two more days. And then, we will see. So, how about you show me where I was born first? - she had a sweet, tentative smile on her face.

I let out a relieved sigh, and nodded at her. We paid for our coffee and donuts, and headed out for our cars.

Nessie's POV

Why did I agree to this? There is still a chance he is crazy. And I am very cautious with people, why did I let him convince me?

He has a very winning smile. But of course, it's not because of the smile. I am not interested in this man, or any man for a while, and even if I start to date again, I will not date a shapeshifter. I promised myself I will never do that again, one heartbreak was enough. So it's just curiosity. Maybe he is right, maybe seeing that house will wake up some memories.

But deep down I know he is not lying. I only have three memories before I become one year old. The face of my dying human mother, the nickname Nessie, and a memory of a wolf playing in the snow with me. That wolf was Jacob. I know that now, I knew it the moment I saw him today in the woods, I just tried to ignore it. I was never sure if that was a memory, or just something I made up in my mind. But now I know, it was a memory.

I let out a loud exhale, and took a turn following his car on the road. He wanted me to ride with him, saying he will come back for my car later, but I didn't feel safe enough for that, so I said he should go first and I will follow him with my car. I need a way to leave if I have to.

We went through a beautiful forest path, and then parked in front of a modern, nice house. Getting out of the car, I realized how beautiful this house was. Big glass windows and walls, beautiful pastel colors, and in the middle of the green forest. A sense of familiarity hit me again, but no memories. Jacob came up next to me, and watched me closely as I inspected the house.

Pretty house. - I said after a while.

No memories? - he sounded disappointed. I shook my head.

No, but it is familiar.

That's okay. Let's take a look inside. - he started to walk up the stairs.

They don't live here anymore, right? - my smelling wasn't that good since I was only half vampire.

No, they left a decade ago. Although since it looks nice and polished, I think they hire someone who comes here once a month to keep it clean. But no vampire smell, so they are not here, trust me. - he took out a key of his pocket and opened the front door.

Why do you have a key? - I was surprised.

Esme gave it to me when they left. She said I can use it any time, but I have never been here since. - he smiled sadly.

You were really close with them. - I looked into his eyes. There was a sadness there I could place. Maybe he was missing them? He just smiled and walked in, as I followed him I had a chance to look around. There were a lot of furnites, but no personal objects. No photos, or nick-nacks people have in their homes. Just beautiful polished couches, tables and big green fake flowers. Everything seemed cold and pretty, like a studio room.

It doesn't seem like a home. It is cold and … just not personal, just simply pretty. - I voiced my thoughts.

Yeah, I guess. - he seemed deep into his thoughts. - I think they took the personal objects away.

I nodded, and walked around the living room, then the beautiful white marble kitchen. It seemed like no one ever cooked here. Although, if vampires lived here then it's logical.

Any memories coming up? - Jacob came up behind me with a hopeful smile. I sighed.

No. And just because you keep asking it, they will not appear. Memory loss, or trauma doesn't work like that, sometimes it's the smells that help, sometimes its the people or the time, or the conscious work on the issue. Not a tour at an old house. - I was rude, but he was annoying me with his constant disappointment. Like I could just remember everything from a look at his place.

Seems like you know a lot about memory losses or traumas. - his smile disappeared.

Yeah, well I am a trained psychologist and I work with children. - I replied while caressing the marble counter in the kitchen. His eyebrows shot up as he came closer to me.

Really? You said you worked as a nurse… and a music manager?

That too. But I also have a BA in psychology, and I am finishing up my masters this year. I don't just lead my organization, I also work with the traumatized children there.

You really are amazing. - he smiled at me and gently stroked my shoulder. The touch instantly calmed my nerves. I smiled back at him.

I am sorry for being rude. But.. this is already difficult without hearing you being disappointed at every turn. - I said quietly.

Hey, I am not disappointed. - he furrowed his brows. - But sorry that I keep asking, I know this must be confusing. Shit, I am confused too.

I guess the vampires didn't leave a good whiskey in their fridge for this tour. - I sighed and wishfully looked at the big white fridge. Jacob laughed next to me, and I had to smile again. He has a very contagious laugh.

No, I don't think they did. But let's just look around a bit more, and then I'll buy you a drink. How about that? - oh, wow a lopsided grin. Okay, this man has way too many ways to dazzle me with a smile.

Okay.

We walked around the house. They had many bedrooms, without beds of course. Beautiful furnites, big stairs, but I couldn't find anything personal or interesting until we reached a room with a piano in it. That stopped me in my tracks.

This is gorgeous. - I whispered, and walked to the piano. I sat down gently, and started to play the keys. It was clean and well-tuned, so someone really took care of this house while they were gone. I played a few random melodies, when I noticed Jacob watching me intensely while leaning against a door in front of me.

That is your fathers. - he said.

I stopped playing.

He… played the piano?

Yes. He was a big music fan. Wrote a song to your mom too, if I remember correctly.

Am I … anything like them? I mean in looks or something? - the question came out so lamely. I tried to ignore the fact that I have living parents.. who may look like me, or have similar interests like music. But I couldn't ignore it anymore.

Yes, you have your mother's eyes. - Jacob answered. - Your hair is more like your dad's, a little bit brown and copper. And your father is a musician.. your mom really liked literature classics, and listening to your dad play. - he smiled at the end of his sentence. I nodded and stood up.

Jacob was leaning against a door that was leading to a balcony, we opened it together and walked out. The air was so refreshing here, it helped me think through this whole mess. I have parents. A whole vampire clan family as it appears. I could meet them. I don't have to have a relationship with them, if I don't want to. It's my choice. I nodded, just for myself and then turned to Jacob who was still looking at me like I am some kind of miracle.

We can call them. My parents. - he seemed shocked at first, but then he smiled and nodded at me.

Okay, Nessie.

THE PHONE CALL

Jake's POV

I haven't talked with Bella since last year. After Nessie disappeared, and I almost died protecting her, Carlisle saved me. I was unconscious for days, and when I woke up… Nessie was nowhere to be found. We looked everywhere. Had help from the vampires who helped during the Volturi war.

Carlisle and Edward even went to the Volturi, they didn't know anything. And Edward would have known if they were lying. I left La Push for two years, searching for her.

Bella and Edward did the same. We spoke weakly, but only about her and about leads we found. Which was mostly nothing.

After two years, I was at the end of my rope… I almost killed myself.

My sisters, my pack.. they were the ones who eventually pulled me back, giving me responsibility and a life. It wasn't a very good life, I know that is not an option without Nessie, but I was leading my pack, I was needed in my community, so I got it together.

After that our conversations with Bella become a yearly event. Once a year she called, or I called her, we talked a few minutes about basically nothing, and then we hung up. I knew she was depressed, even though her vampire voice sounded beautiful. She was a shell of herself, and I never talked with Edward, so I didn't have any idea what state he was in.

I am pretty sure he still blames me, that they took her.

I understand, I blame myself too.

So this conversation will be a lot of fun for all of us.

I decided to facetime Bella, instead of just calling her like usual, while Nessie stood in front of me on the balcony. They will need evidence. After a few rings, Bella's face appeared on my screen. I used my front camera so she will see only me first. Even though she had stoic features now, she still seemed confused.

Jacob? Why are you facetiming me instead of just calling? - her voice still freaked me out sometimes. It was so different from her human voice.

Hi Bells. I want to show you something. Are you with Edward?

Yes. - she looked up, probably at her husband and a moment later he appeared next to her. I haven't seen him in 14 years, and he still looked like a 17 year old. Which is of course logical, but for some reason I was still a little shocked.

What do you want to show us? - his voice was still smooth like in the old times. I heard Nessie took a big breath. First time she had heard both of her parents' voices in such a long time. I gave her a reassuring smile, and then looked back to the camera.

I found Nessie.

For a minute, they were both quiet.

Is this a game? - Edward's voice became lethal.

No, no of course not. I would never do that to you. I met her today. In the forest. She doesn't have any memories of you or me, or anyone. But it's her, I know. Even though she is grown up now. - I said rapidly. How can he think I would joke about this?

My Renesmee? - Bella sounded choked up, even though she is not able to cry anymore. Nessie bit her lip and gave me a nod. I gave her the phone so they could see her.

Hi. - she sounded so nervous.

Impossible. - murmured Edward. - Honey, is that really you? - now he sounded emotional too. Never heard him being emotional.

I guess. - she looked at me for support, and I gave her an encouraging nod.

But I go by Vanessa, or Nessie. I don't remember anything before I was taken away… I am sorry.

That is your fault Ness. - I added. Her parents were still like statues while they kept looking at her.

Okay. - she seemed awkward. - This is really weird. - I smiled and took back the phone.

It is really her. We are in Forks, at the old house. I took her here to see if she remembers anything, but nothing so far.

I have one memory. - she said hesitantly and I angled the phone so they could see both of us. Nessie looked into the camera right into Bella's eyes.

I remember you, after I was born. You were still a human, you were holding me.. and you had brown eyes like… mine. I have that memory. - she spoke slowly, like she wasn't sure if she should share this.

We missed you so much. - Bella said while smiling sadly. Both she and Edward kept looking at her for a few more minutes, before Edward spoke.

Jacob, we will be there as soon as possible. Probably tomorrow morning.

Okay.

And he ended the call. Nessie seemed shocked.

What? They are coming here? I was okay with the phone call. Not meeting them.

Nessie, I am sorry. But they missed you. They are worried about you, they kept looking for you for years… I don't think you can keep them away.

They were looking for me? - she seemed surprised by that.

Of course. We all were. For years. - I almost choked on the last sentence, remembering those dark days and years… I can't go there or I will freak her out. I took a deep breath.

Listen, it's afternoon now. Let me take you to La push, I will show you the beach, we can have that drink. You can stay at my place.. You will have time to prepare for them until tomorrow morning.

She looked at me like she wasn't sure if it's a good idea. God I hope I wasn't coming off as a creep.

I didn't mean staying at my place like that. - I said quickly. - I would never… I mean... I remember you as a child, I just want you to be safe and sound. I have a guest bedroom. I should have started with that.

She started to laugh.

It's okay. First of all, I am not a child, even if you remember me as. And I usually don't have a problem with having a drink or staying at a place with a hot guy, but I am on a man-fast right now, and I know you didn't mean it like that. So let's go.

She started to walk back to the house, and I still stood there shocked. She doesn't have a problem with having a drink or staying with a guy? What does that mean? She has been with guys? And why is she on a man-fast? What does that mean? She has been with that many guys.. or… No, I should not go there.

She is a beautiful woman, a grown-up, but I don't need pictures of her with other guys in my head. It's messed up enough that my long-lost imprint, who was a sweet little girl, looks like a hot woman right now.

I shook my head and walked after her.

La Push

Nessie's POV

The beach here was beautiful. A little bit cold for summer, and definitely cold compared to the warm beaches that I am used to, but still, it was beautiful. Jacob and I sat on a big stone, facing the ocean. We were sitting and eating quietly, staring at the ocean.

The sun was not bright here, so it was comfortable without any shadows.

It was well past four now in the afternoon, and on our way here Jacob stopped at a drive through, to get us some food. I was grateful for it, because I totally forgot we skipped lunch with all this information shock.

Silence was comfortable with him. I am usually a very extroverted person, and I love talking, but today was a bit too much. He seemed the same, extroverted and talkative, but still he reached a point today where he needed the quiet.

I realized that it's not awkward, it's nice. And there aren't many people on this earth who I can be comfortable in silence. The fact that I feel safe and comfortable with him after such a short time shocked me.

My ringtone cut through the soothing sound of the waves. I took it out of my pocket, it was Alex.

It's my brother.

Do you need me to give you some space while you talk with him? - Jake started to stand up, but I shook my head.

No, you can stay. I am just debating how much I should tell him. He will want to come here too. I don't want him to worry… he had to worry a lot in the past months and… but I also hate lying to me, he is not just a brother, he is my best friend. - the phone was still ringing. I could imagine Alex on the other end, furrowing his brow, not understanding what takes me so long to take the call. I looked at Jacob and he looked deep in thought, when he looked into my eyes, I saw sadness in them.

Don't lie if you hate it. - I guess it should be that simple. I put down the remaining of my burger, and took the call.

Hi bro.

Hi sis, how are you? - I smiled at hearing his familiar deep voice. The voice that got me through so much.

I am good. How are things at home?

Fine, nothing to worry about.

There is always something to worry about when you finish the sentence like that. - I know him too well. He sighed before he continued.

Fine. Typical stuff. Izzy is a bit lonely, Carl is being stupid, and we need to upgrade stuff in the restaurant.

The big oven broke again? - I asked with a sigh.

Of course it did. I don't know why I keep fixing the damn thing. I need to buy a better one.

You keep fixing it, because it's part of the legacy of the restaurant, grandma chose that oven. - I said what he already knew with a sad smile. It's hard for us to let things go that are connected to her.

I know. Anyway… you really don't have to worry. The point of this trip is that you only take care of yourself, and your needs. Everything will be just fine when you get home. Which happens next week, right?

Yeah. - I said weakly while I stole a glance at Jacob. He was watching the ocean, but I knew he was listening to every word. - Let's get back to Carl. Why is he stupid?

Skipping summer school. Getting into fights. - his voice was strained. He didn't want to tell me, and worry me but he also knew I would get it out of him if he was holding back.

But I spoke with him before I left. They won't let him to high school if he is not doing summer school, his grades are awful. And fighting? He wasn't getting into fights a few months ago. He is really acting out. Do you think it's because of Leo? - I was afraid of the answer, because deep down I knew that part of it was Leo's fault. And mine as well.

No. I don't know. Shit, Nessie. I meant what I said. It's nothing serious, we will deal with it together when you are back home. You need this time for yourself. I talked with Carl. Uncle Marc will talk with him too. He is fourteen, and he experienced a lot of shit already, of course he is acting out, but that is not your fault. And I know your next question will be about Izzy, so I am going to close that topic too. She misses you of course, a bit lonely maybe, but she is fine. She is almost a senior in high school sis, she doesn't need you always taking care of her like a baby. - he took a deep breath at the end of his monologue. - Now, would you like to tell me why you are not willing to talk about yourself? You are steering the subject. Why?

And yes, he knew me too well too.

I am in Washington, Forks. To be more precise, in La Push.

Okay… what is there?

Shapeshifters. - I looked at Jacob. He smiled at me encouragingly.

Really? That's new. I didn't know there was a pack there. - he sounded interested, held a pause, and when I didn't say anything he continued. - Are they trouble? Why do you sound so stressed?

No, they are nice. But I met someone… who knew me as a child.

What do you mean?

Someone who knew me before Klan took me. He is not my real father. I was … abducted as a child. Just like you. That's why I had memory loss, not because of an accident.

Well, fuck. - I laughed at his reaction.

Yes, I agree.

And you have … parents? - he sounded hesitant. He knew one of them have to be a vampire.

Yes, both vampires. My mother was changed after she gave birth to me. They are.. vegetarian vampires. Doesn't feed on human blood. They don't live here anymore. But Jacob called them, and I am meeting them tomorrow.

Who the fuck is Jacob?

Oh, he is the shapeshifter I met. He knew me as a kid. He is nice. - he was quiet for a while. I looked at Jacob, and he seemed nervous.

Okay… - he seemed hesitant. - But I don't like the vampire thing. I know you are curious. But what if they are dangerous? You never know with leeches. - he spat out the last word, and Jacob grinned at that. Okay, so maybe they could be friends one day.

Jacob said they are okay, and he wouldn't endanger me. And I saw them through facetime. Alex I … look like them.. and they seemed honest. It's just a meeting. Everything will be fine. - I liked to get back to him with his own sentences.

Well, I can't make decisions for you. I know how much you hate that. - I smiled at that, because I really did. - But I am going there. Text me the address. If you won't, I know the city already, I will just track you down by smell.

I let out another sigh at his determined voice.

Alex, no. You are needed there. The restaurant needs you. The pack needs you. Our siblings need you.

It is two days max. The restaurant will manage, prímo Rici will be there. The kids will manage, tía can look after them, but I think they are old enough. And the pack can manage it for two days. Don't fight with me, I am already packing. - I laughed at that. He was just as stubborn as me, our fights were legendary.

Fine, estúpido.

Hey, be nice. I am preparing to save you.

There is no need to save me Alex. You are overreacting. I think I've been in a harder situation than this before.

I know. But it is better to be cautious.. and if there is no danger, that's cool too. It's still a big thing. I want to be there for you, hermana.

Okay. - it's pointless to fight with him. - I will text you the address, and see you tomorrow. Still think you are stupid and overreacting, but fine. - he laughed at that.

Love you sis.

Love you too.

I ended the call, I took a sip from my coke. Jacob broke the silent.

Lot of Spanish words there. - I had to laugh at that.

Yeah, well. Mexican heritage. My brother is from a tribe where they mostly speak spanish.

You speak Spanish too?

Of course, he taught me at a very young age.

Cool. Any other languages?

Fluent french and italian. You?

Impressive. Just English and a little Quileute, our tribal language.

That is nice.

So you guys have a restaurant?

Well, my grandparents started it, and it's my brother's inheritance. He loves it, and he is really good at managing it. It's Mexican, of course. He makes the best tacos ever.

Sounds good.

I am sure you will get an invite if he meets you. He is very friendly, and likes to have a good relationship with other packs.

I won't get an invite from you? - he laid back on his arm, and his already tight t-shirt flexed on his chest and arms. His lopsided grin was back again.

Maybe you will, maybe you won't. I still didn't get my drink after all. - Oh my, am I flirting with him? I am really not supposed to right now. He quirked an eyebrow at me, and slowly stood up.

Well let's get you a drink then.

Jake's POV

I took her to my favorite bar just at the skirt of the city. It was a cozy place where people went to have a drink after work, nothing special. But I still love the atmosphere, and the old man behind the bar became a friend over the years. He was a good listener, and I started to help him out with his car after I saw the old thing he drove.

Good evening Jake! - Luke said after we took our seats at the bar. - What a pretty lady you have with you! You should have taken her to a nicer place as a date.

I felt my cheeks getting warmer. Am I seriously blushing right now?

It's not a date. She is a friend. Nessie, this is Luke. - I made the quick introduction, and Nessie shook his hand with a smile on her face.

Nice to meet you Luke. Nice place you got here, I think it's perfect for a date. - she winked at him and the old man laughed at her.

I like her. What can I get you?

Whiskey, neat. Whatever you got. - she answered quickly.

Same for me. - Luke nodded and went away to prepare our drinks.

I am not sure it's a good idea that I brought you here. - I leaned in so only she could hear me. - You are 15 after all.

Very funny. I live like I am in my twenties for a while. Do I look like fifteen? - she leaned in too in a way that I had a perfect angle to her cleavage. When I looked up into her eyes, she had a sly smile. She caught me staring, great.

No. - I coughed awkwardly. - Definitely not fifteen. But.. why whiskey? Girls usually drink cocktails or something… lighter, you know.

She gave me a dead stare.

I like whiskey. I like all kinds of alcohol, sometimes cocktails, sometimes just beer, and when I have a really shitty day, I like something strong, like a shot of whiskey or a good Mexican tequila. I am not a sweet, innocent girl, I have brothers, I grew up with boys mostly, I fought in wars, and fought for others all my life, so I damn well able to choose what I would like to drink. Do you have a problem with that? - her sassy tone was incredibly sexy. I couldn't speak for a minute, and luckily Luke chose that moment to put our drinks in front of us.

Listen to the young lady, my boy, she looks like she could kick your ass.

Thanks Luke. - I said with a glare, but he just winked at me and walked away.

So. - she took a sip. - You are close with Luke. How did that happen? - she was a good observer.

Yes I am. I lost my father… two years ago. I lost my mom when I was little, so dad was all I had besides my sisters. He was in a wheelchair for years because of diabetes, and then he had a heart condition…and yeah, that's how we lost him. It was around the same time I found this bar. Luke is a bit younger than my dad was, but I don't know he always treated me like a son, so I grew fond of him.

I am sorry for your loss. - she touched my shoulder and slowly stroked it. I felt so much lighter, and it wasn't because of the whiskey. She didn't touch me before. I was dying all day, and tried so hard not to cross that line. Everything is so fresh and new, but the moment she touched I felt the imprint bond calming inside of me. She was home. With me, where she belonged.

Thank you. - I took her hand from my shoulder, and slowly kissed her knuckles. She took a sharp breath and withdrew her hand. Maybe this was too much for her.

You mentioned you have sisters?

Yes, they are twins actually. Rebecca and Rachel, a few years older than me. Rebecca lives in Hawaii with her family, and Rachel lives here in La Push with her husband and children.

You are close? - she smiled fondly. Siblings are clearly a happy topic with her.

With Rachel, yes. Not so much with Rebecca, the distance makes it harder. After mom died, they moved away. I was the only one staying with dad. And then Rachel moved back after she graduated from university.. and we got closer more.

Yes, I get that. When we enlisted in the army with Alex, we went away for a year. Our grandpa was in an awful state after losing grandma, he just disappeared into the mountains. And we left our uncle and aunt to take care of our younger siblings. I honestly felt like shit. I tried to explain it myself, like we are hunting bad guys so technically we are saving the world… and our uncle and aunt are older, better parent options for the little ones… but we missed them so much, and they changed so much in one year… it was hard to rebuild the trust and everything after we came home.

You technically became a mother at a very young age. Raising siblings… that is tough on any child. I am not mad at my sisters for not staying.

Maybe you are not, but I am sure they are a bit mad at themselves. It's natural.

We slowly sipped our drinks, and talked about all kinds of things. It was incredible how easy it was to talk to her. She talked about music, about her time at Julliard, how she wanted to do something with music at the time but felt like a waste of time, because she wanted to help people more. It was clear that she was a very sacrificial person, and that she would do anything for her family. But every story lead back to the same thing, she needed to feel useful in order to feel complete.

I talked about the shop, and my love for cars, how I became a mechanic. It seemed so little compared to everything she achieved, but she looked fascinated by my stories.

She was just explaining how she started to recruit artists for her company, when I heard two familiar voices.

Look at that Quil. - Embry said with a shit-eating grin on his face. - Jake is having a welcome party without us. I am jealous.

Me too. Seth told us about our visitor today. It's not nice that you haven't brought her to the pack yet. We were waiting at your place all day. - Quil added.

Oh really? And who was the work then? - both of them worked for me at my mechanic shop, and after going to the coffee shop in the morning I quickly texted to let them know I won't be working today.

Correction, we were waiting for you at your place in the past hour. - he added quickly then turned to Nessie. - Hi Nessie. Remember us?

I am impossible to forget. - Embry winked at her and she laughed at him.I felt a surge of jealousy in my stomach and gave him a pointed look. He just rolled his eyes.

Hi guys, sorry but still no memories. - she said with a small smile.

It's okay, they are easy to forget. This is Embry and Quil, my packmates and co-workers. - I introduced them.

And childhood best friends, by the way. - added Embry with another wink at her.

Not for long if you keep winking like that dude.

They all laughed at that, and then Embry and Quil decided to just sit down, uninvitedly, and disturb our evening. Quil took a seat next to Nessie, and Embry took one next to me. They both ordered beers, and started to interrogate Nessie.

So, Nessie. You sure grow up nicely. - added my stupid former best friend next to me. I slowly looked at him with a death-glare. Nessie just laughed at his comment.

You purposely want to get into a fight tonight or are you just stupid? - I murmured quietly so only he could hear me. Nessie was luckily answering a question for Quil.

You are so easy to annoy. - Embry shook his head but then his annoying smirk turned into a genuine smile while he took a sip from his drink.

What?

You look happy. Less stressed, less annoyed. Even though you threatened me twice already.

I didn't know what to say, so I just nodded. Of course he noticed it, these two have been with me in my entire life. They know me the best, and they know how much losing Nessie broke me. How much I changed. I lost my smile, I lost my reason to be happy. Everything in the past few years was monotonous, cold and dark. But as soon as I saw her today… I felt hope, and warmth.

The first night

Nessie's POV

After our drinks, we had one more and stayed another hour in the bar with Jacob's friends. I didn't want to drink too much, I need my head clear for tomorrow. Embry and Quil were very laid-back and fun, I enjoyed being around them. They reminded me of the twins, Jesse and Jack at home. They were interested in our pack, and how we live. We had some really great conversations. And it was fascinating to hear that a few years ago they had two packs here, one led by a guy named Sam Uley, who stopped shifting five years ago, and one led by Jacob. They said it's one pack now, and they have seven members. My brother's pack at home is much smaller, he only has four members. I hope one day they can all meet, I think they will get along well.

We drove back separately, like we came here. And once again I followed Jacob's lead to his house. We went through the city, down the beach into a forest road. And when we parked, I needed a few minutes to catch my breath.

His house was beautiful.

It was similar to the Cullen's in a way that it was outside of the city, without neighbors and we had to take a road into the forest to get there, but everything else was different. It was a beautiful wooden cabin, with a big porch. There were lanterns outside and a big swing on the porch. The moon and stars shined in a way that put the house in a spotlight.

I got out of my car and slowly walked up to Jacob who was standing in front of the porch and was looking at me. I smiled at him and let him lead me inside. He turned on the lights, and I had a chance to look around. It was so cozy. Everything was brown or black, very masculine but still, it made me feel home. The smell was full of Jacob as well, earthy and a bit spicy, like the fresh air during the cold winter days. There was a big fireplace, cozy blankets and pillows around the couch, and a nice kitchen which was in the same area as the living room. It wasn't as clean and spotless as the Cullen's, it had several bottles, glasses and containers. I could smell spaghetti in the air. It made me feel like I was home.

Sorry for the mess. I guess Embry and Quil really feel at home here. - he scratched his head and smiled at me awkwardly.

It's okay. I love it, really. It's so warm and cozy. And this fireplace is beautiful. - I walked up to the big fireplace and put my head on it.

I am glad you like it. I put it together with the boys. The whole house actually.

Are you serious? - I turned and looked at him in awe. - Jacob, this house is beautiful. You guys did a great job. Are you the handyman type? - I bit my lip and looked out the window.

Jacob proved to be a really great guy so far. Gorgeous, kind, patient, funny, interesting… and he built a house. I was trying real hard not to be interested in him, but he checked every box. He practically built my dream house.

Yeah, you could say that. I am a mechanic after all. I have been building cars and motorbikes since I was fourteen. And I also helped with a few construction projects, and I like doing wood-works as well. - he crossed his arms across his chest, and the movement drew my gaze from the window. A hardworking man, with a gorgeous face and big muscles. I am screwed.

Impressive. - I said with a sigh and walked into the kitchen. I needed to do something instead of thinking about the fact that I was standing in my dream house with a gorgeous man, alone, in the middle of the night whom I am surprisingly attracted to right now. I gathered the plates from the counter and started to wash them up in the sink.

Oh no, you don't have to do that. - Jacob was behind me in a second and put one of his hands on the counter beside me and he closed the tap with the other.

It's okay. - I whispered. He was so close, whispering seemed more fitting than talking loudly. - I like cleaning, it's smoothing. And my mind is still running so fast.

I looked up and I felt my pulse quickening. His eyes were so dark and intense. His hands were still beside me on the counter, and on the tap. The position made him so close, my back was pressed against his chest and his face was inches away from mine when I turned my head to look at him. He really did smelled like forest, earth and fresh air. I bit my lips, and the motion drew his eyes towards them. For a minute I thought he is going to kiss me, but then he cleared his throat and stepped away.

Okay. You can wash, I will dry. And we can talk about what goes up in your head. - he said with a smile and stood next to me with a cloth. I opened up the tap again, and slowly started to wash the dishes. I took a deep breath. I need better self-control, I can't fall for him. It would not work out, for so many reasons. And even though I tried to reason with myself, and come up with any other topic, my mouth had a mind of its own. The question was out before I thought it through.

Are you single? - he stopped drying the plate in his hand and looked at me with a raised eyebrow.

Yes.

I waited a few minutes, but he wasn't elaborating.

How is that possible? You are gorgeous, smart, funny, and kind. You have your own business, you built a beautiful home… you should be married with a beautiful woman and three kids already. - I almost slapped myself. What is wrong with me? I glanced up at him and he was grinning down at me. Wonderful.

Well, thank you. - he was still grinning. - Let's just say I am waiting for the perfect woman.

That is such a cliché.

Maybe. - he laughed. - How about you? - he averted his eyes from me when he asked the question.

Single. Very much so. Planning to stay that way too.

Oh.. why?

Well, long story short, I've been hurt a lot, and I just don't believe in love anymore. Not for me at least. I date around, I occasionally have one-night stands, but I don't do the commitment thing anymore.

He was quiet for a while and for some reason I didn't dare to look at him. The only sound was the water coming from the tap.

That is such a cliché. - he said quietly, and I needed a second to register what he said. I looked at him shocked and then let out a chuckle.

You got me there. But it's still true.

What happened?

What do you mean?

You said you don't do the commitment thing anymore. What happened that made you decide that?

I took another deep breath. I have a lot of deep conversations with this man today.

First time I was interested in a boy… I was technically six, but in my case that means sixteen. I was still living with my father… I mean Klan, and the boy was a hybrid like me. We barely talked, but he was very nice when we did. And once I gave him a kiss on the cheek, it was very innocent. I think that was my first crush. He was dead the next morning.

What?! - Jacob almost broke the plate in his hand.

Klan wasn't happy. He said I wasn't meant to be with my own kind, and I don't need a distraction, so he killed him.

I am so sorry.

It's okay, it happened a long time ago. - I smiled at him. - But that was just the beginning of my wonderful luck with men. When I got aways from him, and started high school in New Mexico, I fell for a boy in my class. He became a really good friend way before we started to date. He was the captain of the football team, a very hot and very kind boy. A few weeks before graduation I caught him at a party kissing another boy.

No way.

Yes. Turned out, he was gay. And he knew it, but was afraid to come out. His parents were very strict with him. It really broke my heart. The best part was, he was the first boy I slept with. And that was an awful experience. It was understandable why it was so bad for both of us, after I realized he is gay … but anyway. He could have told me.

He should have! What's wrong with people? How could he slept with you while he was guy? - I felt the anger coming off him in waves.

It wasn't that much of a big sexual experience… trust me, it was like three seconds. Anyway, he was young and confused. I forgive him already, we are friends again.

You are friends with the gay man who took your virginity? - he asked with a very confused face. I laughed.

Yes, I know it's weird. After we broke up I went to war, didn't speak with him for a year, and you know the feelings just calmed down, I wasn't hurt or mad anymore. I could forgive him. And he really felt bad. Turns out we are much better as friends.

Okay… - he said slowly. - Still weird, but keep going. Is the story getting worse?

We finished up the last glass and plate as well, and Jacob gestured towards the living room. We both sat down on the couch.

Oh, yes. Much worse. After that I only dated casually, until Leo came.

Leo? You mentioned him on the phone when you were talking with Alex.

Yes, Leo was part of the pack. He is a shapeshifter and he was Alex's childhood best friend. He also enlisted with us, and was part of the special operations team. That's where we become friends. - I took one of the pillows into my lap and started to play with it. I am okay, I can talk about Leo. I am over him.

He was a typical bad boy at first. Sometimes I feel ridiculous that I ever felt for him. - my laugh was cynical. - I was off limits to him. He was off limits to me. Alex really wanted to keep us apart. I understood the reason. Leo was a womanizer, he drank and partied a lot, he got into fights… but another cliché coming, he was a bad boy with a heart of gold. He loved helping people and he was really sweet with me and my family. And he was really hot. So it started as innocent flirting, he told me he doesn't do relationships and that he hates commitment, and I should stay away from him. But I couldn't. I told him I don't want commitment either, but at the time I still dreamed about finding love and having family and stuff like that, so I just got hurt. Flirting turned into wild sex, then a few months into that I decided I want a real relationship and that's where we should have ended, but no. Leo wanted to prove he can do that, he told me loved me… maybe he did on a certain level, I don't know. We started to date seriously, but I still couldn't count on him. He disappeared sometimes for days, he got drunk a lot, he never quit the army either so he went to special ops several times and it was just very lonely. It wasn't a partnership. It worked pretty well on certain days when everything was okay, but otherwise we always fought. We broke up a few times, dated other people, then got back together, it was a mess. And it went on for years. The final blow happened a year ago. - I swallowed hard and looked at Jacob. He seemed so sad. Maybe I should stop… it will get even worse.

Maybe that is enough for today… I don't want to burden you. - I said hesitantly. He shook his head and it looked like he came out of a hypnosis.

No, no. You are not burdening me. I want to know everything. Of course only if you want to tell me.

Alright. - I hold my pillow tighter. - He got me pregnant. - Jacob's breath hitched a little. I looked at him worriedly, and his eyes were a dark pool of anger and sadness. - It wasn't planned, obviously. When I realized he was overseas, and after my shock I decided to keep it. I have always wanted to be a mother.. I just never thought I would have a chance. - I felt my throat tighten. - He came back, and I was already debating if I should raise the baby with him or alone. He was just so unstable. All the time I wanted to save him, help him, guide him… when I was pregnant I realized it doesn't matter. He is a grown up man, he needs to own up his own shit, and I won't be able to change him. It doesn't work like that. And I will not inflict a child to that. But before we had a chance to talk, a girl found me in the hospital where I was working at the time. She was nervous and crying, she told me that… Leo slept with her, and then she found pictures of me in his phone, she didn't know he had a girlfriend, she felt so guilty. And the sad part, I was actually shocked. He did a lot of bad things, but I never thought he would cheat on me. I confronted him, and he admitted that he cheated on me a lot more actually. With several girls. That conversation went down hill real fast. I said I am pregnant, he told me I should get rid of it… for my own good, because Klan would hunt the child down like he did with me and Alex. The child would have been the perfect hybrid… partially wolf, vampire and human. - my eyes became watery as I held back my tears. I closed my eyes, and I felt Jacob's warm hand touch my own on the pillow.

I wanted to keep the child. I broke things up with him, for good. It was messy, Alex freaked out, he almost killed him.. and he banished him from the pack. I was heartbroken, but I got myself over it. Because I needed to be strong for the baby. I had a normal healthy pregnancy until eight months… and then I had a car accident and I lost the baby. - my voice became a whisper at the end.

It's funny. I survived torture, gun wounds, bite wounds, a fucking war… but a simple car accident took my baby away from me. - I was still looking down at the pillow where Jacob held my hand tightly.

That was four months ago. The accident. That is why I was on this… journey alone. I had really bad depression after it… and although I came out of it, because my family needed me, I wasn't really myself in the past months. I needed to heal and work on my trauma before I got back to work. I am a psychologist and I work with traumatized people, it's not healthy if my own issues are not resolved first. - I tried to slow my breaths with a few breathing techniques but before I could manage to do it, Jacob drew me into his lap and held me tight to his chest. My gate broke, and I started to sob.

I am so sorry that happened to you. - he whispered quietly and it sounded like he was struggling with crying as well.

Jake's POV

I held her tight, and drew slow circles on her back. She sobbed loudly first, then after a few minutes she was crying quietly. I felt my own tears escape as well. I can't believe she went through so much shit. It's not enough that she grew up in a cell, raised by a psychopath, she lost people she loved, she didn't have a childhood, she had to become a mother for her siblings, men broke her heart, and she lost a baby. Still, she was so strong and beautiful. Nothing broke her. She found a way to heal, to put herself back together. It was the most beautiful and heart-wrenching thing I ever saw.

I still felt guilty. If I would have been stronger that day… or faster… if I could have found her sooner… maybe half of this would have been prevented. But then she would be a different person.

My thoughts were disturbed by the beep of my phone. A text message. Nessie slowly lifted herself up from my lap and sat back at the end of the couch. She was so far away, I wanted to hold her longer, but I didn't want to push my luck. I checked the text message with a loud sigh:

We are going to be at the house around 6 AM. - Bella.

It's your mom. They will be there at the house at six in the morning. - my voice sounded harsh in the comfortable quiet between us.

My mom… sounds so weird. - she held her face between her hands, she seemed so exhausted.

You should sleep, it's almost midnight. Come on, I will show you the guest bedroom. - I offered her my hand and she took it with a small smile.

My house was simple. A big living room with an open kitchen, a pantry, a bathroom downstairs, and two bedrooms and one bathroom upstairs. We walked up the stairs and I opened the door for the first room. I wasn't big on furniture, but friends sometimes slept here so a king sized bed was already made after my last guest, and there was a dresser and an armchair across from it.

I hope it's okay. The bathroom is down the hall, and my room is across from you if you need anything. You will find towels in the dresser if you want one.

It's perfect, thank you. - her smile was sad, and her eyes were still puffy. I restrained myself not to hug her again.

Thank you for sharing your story with me. - I said it quietly.

Thank you for listening. - she touched my arm and then started to walk to the bed. I took that as my cue to leave, but before I could she turned around. - I almost forgot. Do you prefer Jake or Jacob? I was calling you Jacob all day, but the guys were calling you Jake and it suits you better.

Jake is perfect. Thanks for asking. - I gave her a small smile. - Good night Nessie.

Good night Jacob.

The Cullens

Nessie's POV

I only slept five and a half hours, but it was surprisingly good. The bed was comfortable, the sounds coming outside were the same when I was camping in the forest, and for some reason it felt nice knowing that Jake was only a few steps away in another room.

I tried no to think about how safe he made me feel. I can't get attached to him. I will leave in days, and I doubt I will see him too much after that.

Jake woke me up around 5:30 in the morning. He was standing in the door, the light from the hallway illuminated his body and he was holding a mug in his hands.

I made you coffee. I know it's early, so I thought it would be more comfortable to drink it in bed. - he slowly walked in and sat on the side of the bed while he gave me the mug. - I wasn't sure how you like it, but since you drank latte yesterday I put milk and a little sugar in it.

I like coffee in every form it comes. Thank you. - I took the mug and sighed, smelling the fresh coffee sent. - This is perfect. I still don't get how you can be single.

His chuckle was soft and husky, and it sent shivers down my arms.

Do you want some breakfast too? I could make some eggs and toast.

No, thank you. I am too nervous to eat. - I started to slowly sip my coffee.

It's gonna be okay. They love you so much. - he touched my knee and the warmth of his hand instantly made me calmer.

He was so close again, and I remembered how he held me in his lap last night while I was crying. He was so comforting and sweet, he had that adoring look on his face again. I swear I could get lost in his eyes. I need to get moving before I climb into his lap again.

Is it okay if I have a quick shower now? I was too tired yesterday.

Sure, I am gonna wait for you downstairs.

Okay, I need to get my back from my car first.

We both went downstairs and after getting my bag from my car I went back to the bathroom. He had a long shower cabin, where two people could comfortably take a shower. Why did I just think of that? I will obviously shower on my own. Maybe this man-fast is messing with my head, I should start dating again when I am back home.

I took the hottest shower I could, I loved how the hot water burned my skin. For a few moments it felt like my issues were washed away as well. After that I dressed in comfortable black ripped jeans and a white t-shirt, and with a big deep breath I went downstairs.

Jake was already at the door with a big chocolate chip cookie in his hand. He gave it to me.

My sister made it, and I just remembered I still had some hidden away. You should eat something. - I took it with a smile.

Hidden away?

The guys like to hang out here. They eat everything, I have to hide the goods.

I laughed at that, because I was way too familiar with the appetites of shapeshifters. I took a bite of the cookie and moaned a little. It was good. Jake smirked at that.

Someone will be really lucky to marry that guy one day.

We went together with his truck. I was comfortable enough to leave mine at his place. The drive only took 15 minutes, and we arrived a few minutes after six. A perfectly polished black volvo was already parked in front of the house.

I took slow steps towards the front door, still thinking that I should have left yesterday when it swung open before we could knock on it.

Right in front of me was a girl with beautiful chestnut brown hair, porcelain white skin, and golden eyes. She barely looked twenty. The smell of sweetness hit me. Definitely vampires.

Renesmee. - she whispered in her angelic voice. I felt chilled to my bones. The voice of vampires always freaked me out. It was so unnaturally perfect. And the fact that I only knew psychopath vampires with the same perfect voice didn't help at all.

Hi Bells. - said Jake after I still couldn't say anything. The so-called Bells looked at him with a small smile and then opened the door so we could go inside. In the living room a tall boy with the same hair color as mine and the same golden eyes as Bells stood and smiled at us.

Hello Renesmee.

I never really thought through how young they would look. They met in high school, so it's logical, but the fact that my actual parents looked younger than me was very weird. Jake said he changed my mother when she was nineteen, but how old is he?

Hundred? More? Oh God, I really should have asked more questions about them.

I had a quick flashback of a vampire who was torturing me when I was a child. He also looked like a young teenage boy, and he also had a very sweet voice. But the sheer brutality that he was capable of…

Enough. It's okay. They will not hurt me. Jake said I could trust them. And for some reason I trust Jake, so I need to get it together.

We would never hurt you. - said the boy with a sad expression. I was confused for a minute, then I remembered what Jake told me about him.

Oh my, you are a mindreader. - well this is embarrassing. - I am sorry. This is just… very confusing.

You don't have to apologize for your thoughts. I am very sorry that you experienced so much pain because of our kind. - he looked out of the window, like he was trying to manage his anger. - But you are our daughter. We love you, and we would never hurt you. - he sounded honest, but that's the thing with vampires. Their stone cold face is very hard to read. I just nodded, even though he could hear my thoughts and looked back at the girl who was now standing next to him. They looked nice together.

I am not sure how much Jacob told you about us, but we can share our story with you if you like. - he added. I nodded and then we all sat down. I was sitting on the big couch next to Jake, and they were sitting right in front of us on a loveseat.

My name is Edward Cullen. I was born in 1901, and Carlisle, who is my adopted father, changed me to a vampire when I was seventeen years old. I was dying from the Spanish influenza, and that is how he saved me. Carlisle was already a vegetarian vampire at the time, he works as a doctor and he valued human life tremendously. It was hard for me to follow his lead, and for a time I went rogue, but I eventually rejoined the family and learned to live on animal blood. I met your mother in 2005. I tried to avoid her, because I thought I didn't deserve her, and I was terrified of hurting her. - he smiled at his wife. - But she didn't give up on me, and eventually after a lot of mishaps we got married, and had you. - Jake snorted at the word.

Mishaps are lightly putting all the shit that happened.

You were born in 2006. - Edward continued without even giving Jake a glance. - We named you Renesmee, after my mother Esmee and Bella's mother, René. You were a beautiful, intelligent child, but I am going to be honest we were very afraid at the beginning, not knowing how you will age and how your blood thirst will be. The Volturi was also a threat, they thought you were an immortal child. We even had a war with them, to protect you. That's how your aunt Alice found a man named Nahuel, you were the same hybrid as you. It gave us great comfort knowing you will stop aging after seven years. - he glanced at his wife, sensing that she wanted to say something.

You look… older. We thought you would stop aging.

I did, when I was seven. I looked like seventeen. But then I realized that's not a life. I don't want to look like a teenager forever. I wanted to work, have a career, maybe build my own family. And I also had responsibilities like raising my own siblings, it's hard to do that if you always look so young. So I found a way to age. I quit blood entirely, and after a half year or so, my vampire senses quieted down and I started to age.

It was that simple?

No. God no. It was an experiment. I was sick for a half year, my brother thought I was gonna die. I had stomach issues, headaches, muscle pain, joint pain, all kinds of allergies, it was similar to an immune disease. My body was slowly giving up, but I knew I could pull it through, and I did. With a healthy human diet, and vitamins and time, I become better and stronger. As a human.

And was it worth it? Just to look older. - she sounded disapproved.

Just to look older? No. But I hate being part vampire, it's disgusting. What kind of life is that? Looking like a child forever. What was I supposed to do? Go to high school all over again until the end of the world? I wanted to build a career. Age with my friends and family around me. Maybe become a wife and a mother one day. So yes, it is worth the pain.

They were quiet for a minute, just staring at me with an unreadable expression and I realized how harsh were my words. I looked at Jake next to me, and he looked awkward, like he really wanted to be in another room right now.

Sorry, I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. I know you can't… change what you are, and you do the best you can. Not eating people I mean, that is pretty cool of you. - Jake chuckled next to me, and Edward also smiled a little. Bella still seemed surprised and sad.

You mentioned you have… siblings? - she asked cautiously.

Yes, my older brother Alex, he was also abducted when he was younger, so we grew up together. After we got away from Klan, I lived with his family who became my family. We have a little brother Carl, and Izzy, my baby sister who is also a hybrid like me. He was born when I was six, or sixteen… and I've been raising her ever since. - it took me a moment to realize, but when I did I quickly looked at Bella again.

Your name is Isabella. - I stated the obvious. She smiled softly.

Yes.

I named my sister Isabella. She just goes by Izzy instead of Bella. I remembered when she was born.. She was so small and fragile, I wanted to keep her safe at all costs. That's why I stayed an extra year with that monster, because he let me choose her name and raise her. And that name … it was a reflex. - I was dumbfounded.

Maybe you subconsciously remembered it. - said Edward.

Yeah, maybe.

We were talking about my siblings and my life in New Mexico, and I just started to feel more relaxed around them when I heard two cars parking outside.

Our family is very anxious to meet you. I am sorry, I should have said something earlier, but I didn't want to interrupt you. - Edward said with an apologetic smile.

As soon as he finished his sentence, the front door opened and six other vampires walked in. They were all beautiful, and had the same golden colored eyes. We all stood up from the coach, and Edward slowly introduced everyone.

This is Carlisle and Esme. - they were moving in couples. Carlisle was the doctor if I remembered correctly, and Esme was his wife. They were the only ones who looked like they were in their twenties.

It's so nice to see you, Renesmee. - Carlisle's voice was smoothing and velvety like Edward's. I was actually very interested in getting to know him. A vampire doctor. It must be really challenging.

This is Emmett and Rosalie. - the boy was big and masculine, and the girl was blonde and beautiful. They looked like they should be on the cover of a magazine.

Hi baby niece. - Emmett snickered and I had to smile back at him. He seemed so much like my brother Alex.

And this is Alice and Jasper. - a petite pixie girl and a melancholic blonde boy smiled at me next. Alice pulled me into a hug as soon as I looked at them.

It's so good that you are home.

I was frozen for a minute. I liked hugs a lot, I considered myself a hugger too. But I've never been hugged by a vampire before. Or at least not that I remember. I slowly hugged her back, but her body was so cold and stonelike that another set of chills went through my skin.

Jake must have felt my discomfort because he patted Alice's head.

Okay, pixie. Let her breathe a little. - Alice let me go with an apologetic smile. Jake shook hands with Carlisle and hugged Esme. Then he looked at Rosalie and grinned.

What's up blondie? How is your only brain cell doing?

Rosalie gave him an icy stare. Everyone else smiled a little. It seemed like this was an old banter between them.

Who invited the mongrel?

Hey, I found her. - he pointed at me.

Fine, you can leave now.

I suppose they don't like each other much. - I said while looking at Emmett who was enjoying the exchange between Jake and Rosalie.

Nah, this is their love language.

I smiled at that. I was really grateful that Jake was here with me. He seemed to be good at lightening the mood, and he made me feel less anxious.

After the introductions, we all sat down in the living room, and they started to question me.

Renesmee, you already mentioned the man who took you… Klan. Could you tell us more about that? - said Edward.

Yes, but … could you please call me Nessie or Vanessa? I am really not used to being called Renesmee, and it is just weird. I grew up without that name.

Of course you remember being called Nessie. - Bella sounded dry and sarcastic.

What do you mean?

The mongrel gave you the nickname Nessie. Not your parents. - said Rosalie, who was sitting on a window seat with Emmett. I was surprised, and I looked at Jake to confirm it. He smiled sheepishly at me.

Yeah, Renesmee was a mouthful, so I started to call you Nessie when you were a baby. I guess you liked it.

I smiled back at him. It was peculiar that out of the three memories that I had from my childhood, he was part of two.

So, back to the topic. - I said as I diverted my eyes back to Edward. - Klan is an ancient hybrid. He is part vampire, human and shapeshifter. He is the only one of his kind, or at least that's what we know. He was a viking, back in his days like a thousand years ago. His tribe had shapeshifters as well, and his father met a hybrid woman who was vampire and human. - they all looked surprised by that. - Yes, we have existed for a while now. Anyway, they had him. He looks like a human, blue eyes, blond hair, really tall guy. He said he grew up like a normal child, not as fast as a human, and he changed into a wolf when he was seventeen. He had a growth spurt at them, like every shapeshifter does, and that's when his blood thirst came out as well. He looks like he is in his twenties right now, and doesn't age, obviously. Hence the thousand years. I am not entirely sure how much of his story is true though.

I never really questioned his back story. Just as I never really questioned if I am his daughter. They waited for me patiently to continue. Edward had an encouraging smile on his face, and Bella looked sad and deep in thought.

All I remember is waking up in a hospital-like room when I was around seven. Which in my case was one. It must have happened after he abducted me. I had scars and bruises. He was sitting next to my bed. I remember asking him who he is, or what happened to me. He seemed hurt and surprised that I don't remember him. He told me that he is my father, that I had an accident. He painted a very vivid story about me going against his orders and falling from a bridge. He kept telling me that's why I don't remember anything, and that's why I have bruises because I had an accident. You know, it sounds so stupid right now. But at the time it seemed so logical. I was very young, and hurt. I wanted to believe him.

Everyone was quiet for a minute.

He really was the perfect psychopath. He switched between pretending to care for me, and punishing me. Whichever way was more efficient to achieve his goals. He was running this underground facility, like so underground it was almost like a different world. Tons of vampire and shapeshifters worked for him, and then he had his special little breeding program. That's where he wanted to use me. He couldn't create his own kind, he needed help. So he abducted young shapeshifters, and hybrids from all over the world. He wanted to force people to mate, and create more hybrids like him. Of course that is not something that you can easily force. He struggled with it a lot. Sometimes he puts people in the same cell when they are older, hoping they will just fall for each other. Created situations, where they had a chance to save each other. Other times, like in my case as well, he put children together. Hoping that if they grow up together, they will be more attracted to each other. That is how I met Alex. Klan was raising me by his side for a year, making me believe every story and propaganda shit he had about the world, then out of punishment for something stupid, he put me into a cell with Alex. He was barely fourteen years old at the time.. and he already changed, because a group of Klan's vampires attacked his tribe. It triggered him. But that plan backfired. The trials, the tortures, everything we had to endure together just made us stronger, and connected us on a different level. We become siblings. And he hated it. - I had to smile when I remembered how he reacted when I first told him that Alex is my brother, and I will never mate with him.

Why did he do that? What is his goal? - Carlisle sounded like a professional doctor, who is looking for answers. I didn't catch any emotion in his voice or on his face, just a hint of curiosity.

He wants to build an army. Probably take over the Volturi, he has some old issues with them. He trained and raised us like soldiers as well. And that was his plan with the new hybrid children too. As far as I know, no children were born yet who were anything like him.

Ambitious psychopath then. - murmured Emmett and I chuckled at that.

Something like that.

You must be really strong that you could endure all that. - said Esme with a sad smile. - I am sorry you didn't have us to help you.

It's okay. I had my brother. And I have my family in New Mexico. I wasn't alone, and although my childhood was shit, it made me stronger and I learned to work through my trauma. Mostly. - I added with a small smile. Traumas are hard to get through, especially if you have as many as me.

Jake's POV

Nessie was handling this so well. I couldn't imagine how I would react if I would learn as a grown up man that I have a family I never even knew about. She told them about everything that we discussed, except Leo. I tried not to think about it, because Edward was giving me a look, and I didn't want to unintentionally tell her secrets. If she is not ready to talk about that, it's cool. She doesn't have to share everything at once. And even though she was talking about her past and her siblings, and her family, I felt her being tense the whole time. She wasn't tense with me last night. She clearly was still a bit afraid of them, and it broke my heart.

I obviously didn't like vampires. But they were her family, they adored her. And I know they were safe, it took me a lot of time to learn that, but I accepted them after I imprinted on Nessie. Although the fact that everytime I scooted a little closer, or put my arms behind her on the couch she seemed to relax a little, made me smile. I am not even sure she realized the effect I have on her. I just really hoped she hadn't realized what effect she had on me.

I slowly took all of them in. I haven't seen them in such a long time. It's crazy that they still look the same. I know I haven't aged much either, but the grief and the pain take a toll on me, and I knew I looked older than fifteen years ago. Everyone was looking at her with awe. I understand that. She was so beautiful, and so smart. All the things she went through, and still she was a light in the darkness. She was able to turn her trauma around, and use it for good. Use it to help others get better. Bella was the only one who looked at her with sadness. I guess it was harder for her, as a mother. She didn't have a chance to raise her, to teach her, to guide her. She got her back as a grown up woman, who seemed much more mature than her.

Carlisle was asking her about her health and illnesses when she tried to become more human, when I heard a car park in front of the house. Everyone else looked out the window.

Nessie jumped up.

Alex! - she ran and opened the door. I walked after her. In the open door stood a guy with similar height and build like me.

His hair was curly, and dark brown and he had hazelnut brown eyes. Next to her, stood a young girl, who looked like sixteen. She was slim, a little shorter than Nessie, and she had very white skin, long black hair and piercing blue eyes. She looked like Snow White in the cartoon. Behind them was a middle aged man in a suit, and I am pretty sure I saw a badge on his neck. Nessie's smile faltered when he took them in.

Did you seriously bring Izzy with you? Why? - Nessie seemed angry, but at the same time she went and hugged her little sister, who had a timid smile on her face.

Don't be mad at him, I wanted to come. I missed you, and I didn't want to miss this out. - Izzy had a very timid and sweet voice.

Yes, Nessie. Don't be mad at me. - Alex smirked. Nessie rolled her eyes and hugged her brother as well, then slowly turned to the man behind them.

Officer Johnson, may I ask what are you doing here? - so she clearly knew him, and judging by her tone she clearly wasn't happy that he was here.

Miss Marquez, nice to see you again. I need to ask a few questions from you and your brother.

He insisted that he talks with the both of them at the same time. - Alex's voice was annoyed. - I told him that you will be back in a week. - he gave a pointed look to the detective.

It's an important investigation, we didn't have a week to wait around. - the man's voice was equally annoyed. These two clearly didn't like each other. Nessie and Alex had a silent but long look before Nessie spoke again.

Fine. Come on in please. - we stood aside, and the detective walked into the living room.

Guys, this is Jake. He is the one I met in the woods. - Nessie introduced me. Alex seized me up from head to toe. Just by his posture, size and confidence I know he was an alpha. He gathered the same thing about me in a minute. I never met another alpha before, except Sam of course. I wasn't sure how this would play out. Part of me was annoyed with him that he was the one who was there for Nessie all the time, another part of me was grateful that he had a protector besides me. Especially that he was a brother, and not a lover. That made me want to be friends with him.

Alexander Marquez. - he held out his hand with a small friendly smile. I felt relieved, and I took his hand.

Jacob Black. Nice to meet you. - his handshake was strong and firm, just like mine.

Hi, I am Izzy. - said the girl with a timid smile. She seemed very shy, she reminded me of Bella when she was younger. A bit awkward, uncertain, timid, but very sweet. It's funny that Nessie seemed to only have her eyes, but nothing of her personality so far.

Hi Izzy. - I gave her a smile, and she blushed a little. Funny, maybe it comes with the name.

We all walked into the living room, where the detective was standing in the middle of the room. The Cullens hadn't moved from their seats, and everyone was waiting for us.

Sorry for disturbing this union, or whatever it is. I am officer Donald Johnson from the New Mexican police station. I am going straight to the subject because I have a flight to catch in four hours. Leonardo Romero committed felony against the United States, by destroying government property and killing people in the process. He disappeared after that, and we were not able to find him yet. We need to officially interrogate everyone who was close to him, and according to our research, Vanessa and Alex Marquez was the closest thing he ever called a family. I need to take your statements, and I need your help to find that man.

The interrogation

Nessie's POV

Alex and I sat next to each other in Carlisle's office. Officer Johnson stood in front of us with crossed arms and a hard expression. Like we are fugitives or accomplices.

It only annoyed me so much. This day was already hard on me. A room full of vampires was waiting for us outside, who apparently were my long lost family. I didn't even have time to process the thought, I barely had the energy not to freak out. Last time so many vampires were around me, I was almost tortured to death.

On top of this great discovery, Alex brought Izzy here, to an environment where I didn't trust anyone yet, and I had to leave her outside when Johnson asked for a private place to interrogate us. He just barged in here, without calling me first, and he demands answers that we do not have. The audacity.

Alex seemed bored. He didn't have a good relationship with Johnson, he was always lurking around, suspecting something is not okay around the reservation where we lived. Alex and Leo stirred enough trouble for him too. He hated them. And we met on several occasions when I had to bail them out. He could never press charges, or investigate around us more, because we were veterans with really good military connections. There was a reason why we served in special operations, and a small town officer definitely wasn't in high enough rank to do any damage to us. And that really annoyed him.

Relationship with the criminal? - he asked while holding a little notepad and looking at me. I sighed.

Seriously? You know that Donny. - I used his first name as a nickname on purpose.

This is an official interrogation. You will address me as Officer Johnson. - he tried to give me a hard look, but unfortunately for him, I could never take him seriously.

Since when do you have authority to do investigations like this? Especially out of your district. You are not a detective.

He pursued his mouth into a thin line. Sour point.

Not that it is any of your business, but I am becoming a detective at the end of the month.

Congratulations, Donny. But you are still not, so I don't get either how you got authority to do this investigation. - added Alex. Donny just sighed, and didn't try to warn us about his name again.

I know him the best from the area. And you two as well. The case was signed to another detective, but I offered him my help. That is why I am here, and I am allowed to question you.

You hate Leo so much that you begged for this, didn't you? - asked Alex with a smirk. Johnson's face looked like a big red tomato now.

Both of you are stalling an important investigation. - he barked out in anger. - This makes me think you are accomplices.

I sighed again, and Alex rubbed his face. I looked at him, and saw the same acceptance that I felt in the moment. We knew each other so well that we could always communicate like this. One glance was enough to know if we are on the same page or not. In a short second we decided that although it's fun, it's not worth it to annoy him any longer. Donny is not the smartest officer, but he could stir us trouble if he really wanted to.

We are not accomplices. We don't even know what you are talking about. But fine, I will go with your questions. I had a romantic relationship with Leo for years, and we broke up a year ago. After our break up, I only saw him once and only talked with him on that occasion. I don't know where he is. - I answered in a bored tone.

He was my best friend, until he broke my sister's heart and left her alone pregnant. So no, I don't fucking talk with him. I had a fight with him not long after they broke up, and I haven't seen or talked with him ever since. - added Alex with an annoyed tone.

Donny looked between the both of us for a minute with a serious face. He was trying to decide if we were lying. Alex and I stared back at him with bored expressions.

Was that fight physical? - he asked while piercing Alex with his gaze. Alex just raised an eyebrow.

You mean to ask if I kicked his ass? Yes, I did. I almost killed him for doing what he did with Nessie. - I felt the hot anger radiating from Alex. For a moment I was worried.

He was very controlled about his wolf and his anger, Klan trained the wolves really strictly, he could even fight in the US army without changing into a wolf. But ever since Leo betrayed our family like that, he had issues managing that anger when anyone mentioned him. But before I could say something to calm him down, Donny looked at me.

What exactly happened?

He was an asshole, I couldn't count on him. He cheated on me, and left me pregnant.

Where did he go when he left you?

I don't know, I obviously didn't care at that point. - my tone was monotonous and my face was polite and unreadable, and I didn't look at Alex purposely.

We both knew I was lying. Leo was still part of the special operations team, called Protectors when he left. We are both pretty sure that he had an assignment, but we couldn't talk about that. That team was very secret, only a few people knew about it, even in the government. I am pretty sure the local police officers don't have a clue what it is.

Our team was sent on very unique operations, where we had to take down the worst of the worst. Terrorists, murderers, psychopaths. At the beginning for me it meant I can save people if I am a weapon on the "good side". But after a lot of killing, you start to question what the good side means…

And for Leo it always meant that he can be a hero. He loved that part. No matter how shit he was at home, when he saved people by taking down the bad guys, he felt like he had a purpose. It became an addiction for him, that's why he couldn't leave.

But that was a year ago.

The question is, is he still part of the team, and this is a misunderstanding or did he went rogue and become dangerous?

He is really good at hiding. Obviously, that's why we haven't found him yet. He leaves no trace online, he only uses cash, travels anonymously, we could never even trace back a car to him. - Johnson continued after he got bored looking between the two of us suspiciously.

That's because he probably travels like a wolf, but that's a different issue.

We talked with military units, they all say he is a veteran, and not employed by the government in any form. - he was looking between us to confirm his statement. We just looked back with a blank face.

Both of us were good at masking emotions from a really young age, it was necessary to survive. And what he said didn't mean anything. If he was in special ops, they would not admit that to a simple police officer. But if he did the killing on an operation, why don't they hide his trails? These things never get out of hand… and they specially don't end up with police officers. What is happening?

I believe him to be a very dangerous criminal. To the detective who took this case, I told that he was trouble since he was a boy, always getting into fights, ending up at the police station. - he looked at Alex suspiciously. - Just like you. I remember when I first became a young officer, you two were just twelve years old and I had to take you in on my first day. You were inseparable. Even after you disappeared for years, you came back and enlisted in the army together. You seriously going to tell me that bond you two had is gone just because he was a shit boyfriend to your sister?

Alex took a deep breath and straightened his back in his chair. Even though he was sitting and the officer was standing, thanks to his height was in eyelevel with him. The air in the room was tense, but I wasn't nervous anymore. He will not phase, he had that tense alpha authority air around him, but he was in control.

I was a troublemaker as a young teenager, because I was stupid. But I grew out of it. Leo never did. I learned to be a man, to be there for my family and community. I rebuilt my family's restaurant with my bare hands, and I was always there to provide for my siblings and my grandparents when they became too old to care for themselves. I serve my community with pride, and I help the people around me.

You judge me by the mistakes I made as a teen. You don't have any fucking right to do that. And no, my fucking bond with Leo isn't gone, it's broken. He broke it, while breaking my trust in him. - he paused for a moment, and I felt my throat tighten. His wounds were still very fresh, even though I worked through most of the pain myself.

- I would like to drill into your head that we have had no relationship with that man for over a year now, and we never will, so stop asking stupid questions.

Johnson seemed irritated by his tone, but he didn't dare to question him. Men can feel the alpha in the room even though they are not wolves.

Well then. - he cleared his throat. - I believe this interrogation is over. You both know my number, if you have any information about him reach out to me.

We both nodded and walked out with him. He said his goodbyes, and spared one suspicious look at the Cullens. A group of vampires always stirred uneasy feelings in humans, even if they couldn't explain the reason behind it. But he quickly decided that it is not worth it to investigate those feelings right now, and left.

Alex and I turned around, and we were greeted with curious eyes. Jake was sitting on the couch with Izzy next to him, for some reason I was grateful that he was the closest to him. My so-called parents were still sitting on the love seat across from them, and everyone else was scattered around the living room.

I was just preparing to introduce my brother, when my stomach started to rumble. I glanced at my phone, and it was past noon. This seemed like a really long day.

How about I order some pizza? - asked Jake with a grin and I nodded at him with a smile. Alex leaned into me and whispered, even though everyone else could hear him.

I like this guy already.

Nightmares

Jake's POV

I ordered four different kinds of pizzas, then the four of us were sitting on the ground around the coffee table sharing and eating the pizzas. It felt weird that a bunch of vampires were standing around us, I could feel the tension rolling off from Alex but I tried my best to remain calm and relaxed, so the girls could eat comfortably.

So Alex, could you maybe tell us about Klan too? What is your experience with him? - asked Carlisle politely. Alex popped a whole slice of pizza in his mouth and after destroying it in a minute, he answered the question.

Well, that is not a nice story. I was fourteen years old when I invaded our village, I guess it was a year later after Nessie was abducted. He came with six vampires, in the middle of night, and took me, and another boy. The night is foggy, but I remember them killing my parents… - his face was clouded with memories, I doubted he like to talk about this. - I wanted to fight them off, and I managed to change for the first time in my life. But of course, I was weak and young, and even though I heard about the legends from grandfather it was hard to believe them. My grandparents were babysitting my little brother, who was two years old at the time.. they were at a different location, so they survived. The other boy… we went to school together, I knew him. But he wasn't triggered, he didn't change .. so they killed him too. They threw me in a cell underground where I lived for six years. That's where I met Nessie, and decided to adopt her as my sister. - he grinned at her, and she sneaked her arms around his middle and hugged him from the side.

For a minute I felt jealousy, but I quickly dismissed it when I saw him looking at her. They really loved each other as siblings. And she was lucky that he was there for her… since I couldn't be. This man helped her a lot, I should be grateful for him.

I watched as Edward watched them with the same sad but grateful expression. He wished to be the man who protected her … but he couldn't either. This man did. And we need to respect him as her brother.

Edward must have heard my thoughts because he looked at me, and gave me a very subtle nod, to show that he agrees with me.

What was your life down there? - asked Carlisle.

Fun. - said Alex with a sarcastic smile. - We had training, twice a day. One separate for the wolves, and one together with hybrids. They taught us how to control our wolves, that part wasn't so bad actually… I could use some of those techniques with my pack. We had to study as well, for some stupid reason it was important to him to keep us up with school subjects.

He had plans to use us as secret agents in the real world… like in schools and stuff. That's why it was important. But he never really did that, not many people were loyal enough to do it. - added Nessie.

There were normal parts, believe it or not. But there were other parts. Like sleeping in a cell, or being punished whenever we disobeyed or didn't perform well enough. He had different torture rooms.. medieval style and all. He tried to brainwash us all well, make us believe we are soldiers and together we will build a better world…he is very psychotic. It did work on some people, never did on me. I remembered my parents and grandparents too much and knew what he took away from me. - Alex had a dark look on his face, and I could only imagine how many times he wanted to kill that monster.

And how did you escape?

We have started a little rebellion. - he said with a smug smile while looking at Nessie. - Tried to convince the wolves and hybrids to go against him, to join us. It was tricky, because some of them were very loyal to him…the brainwashing technique actually worked on people. But they questioned things when they heard all the things he had done to Nessie. At that time of course we all believed she was his daughter. - he was quiet for a few seconds, and I tried to take some deep breaths to control my anger.

All the things he had done to Nessie… I am not even sure I am capable of processing those things without dying from the guilt and pain that was still in my stomach.

Anyway I formed a little team and we planned our escape. The plan was to take over the place, and take down as many vampires as we could. Klan was very strong, smart and well-protected by his close circle, but I still had hope that I could take him down. Well, I was way too confident. - his smile was dry and sarcastic and he shook his head in disbelief. - I swear he was anticipating it. Of course he was a paranoid psychopath, so it made sense. We barely got out. A lot of people died… and actually only four of us could leave in time. Two other shapeshifters from another pack, Nessie and me. - he looked at Nessie with a raised eyebrow, and she took it as her cue to continue the story.

While it was raining, I heard a woman crying and struggling in one of the rooms. At that my senses were really strong, and I knew she was human and that she was suffering. It wasn't that rare that humans ended up there as victims, but what made me stop was the little heartbeat I heard. The woman was pregnant. I instantly went into her room, and the state she was in… - her voice grew quieter, and she stole a quick glance at her sister. Izzy was looking down at her lap, and she was playing with her hands, we couldn't see her face. - She looked exactly like Izzy. And that's when I knew that I won't leave. I won't leave without her, but she couldn't move in that state… so I needed to stay with her. But we didn't have much time, so I told Alex and the others to run. I was sure they would kill them for the chaos we caused, but I believed that I am his daughter and he will spare me. It took a little convincing, but they left and I stayed with the woman. I never learned her name, she was in so much agony… the only thing she kept repeating was a beg to keep her baby safe, and I promised her right there that I always will. - Izzy looked up at the last sentence, and her big blue eyes were shiny with tears. Nessie reached over the table and took her hand before continuing the story. - Klan came, he was furious of course. And I did something I never did before… I begged. I begged for him to save that woman and baby, and to let me help them. I promised I would do anything. And that was the biggest advantage he could have, because all my life I was struggling against him. Me being the loyal and dutiful daughter he always wanted was a win-win situation for him. So we saved the baby… unfortunately we couldn't save the woman. He didn't have the vampire poison that is needed for a change, but even if he would have I don't think he wanted her to live. I named Izzy, and I begged him to let me raise her. He even told me that she is my sister, and I am responsible for her now. He even seemed happy. - she let out a sarcastic chuckle. - I think he knew that he had a hold on me with her, after that we stayed for another year, and I tried my best to please him, so he never took out his anger on her. After a year, Alex and the other alpha, Derek, who escaped with him, caused some disturbance with the help of their packs, and the whole thing erupted into a big war. We could escape then, and they took down a lot of vampires who worked for him. Klan retreated, I think he was afraid that the Volturi would catch him without his backup, and… - she paused a little - We haven't heard of him ever since.

The two sisters held hands, and while sitting on both sides of Alex, he drew them in for a group hug. It was heartbreaking to see the pain written over their faces while they remembered all the horrors they endured. The Cullens were all solemnly looking down at them. My gaze swept through all of them, and it stopped on Bella. She seemed shocked. Probably she just realized that her little daughter is basically a mother, who had more experience raising a child now than she had with her.

And this bond she had with them? It was forged by pain, love, sacrifice, and all the memories they shared together. I am pretty sure they didn't expect to get her back like this.

Nessie's POV

After talking so much about ourselves, I needed to divert the conversation to be able to breathe a little. It was a lot to talk about, especially with Izzy by my side. I tried to avoid talking about those times, and erase it from her head, but I could still see the guilt whenever we had to talk about it. She was angry at herself, that I stayed back because of her. I knew that, and I also thought it's the stupidest thing ever. I loved her, and she was an innocent baby at the time… it was not her fault.

I started to ask the Cullens about their life, how they became a vampire, what was their life like as humans, and we all instantly got caught in their stories.

When I heard about Esme and how she lost her baby, my heart was crying out for her. And the kind, sympathetic smile she gave me just indicated that they all heard about Leo and my accident when we were talking with Johnson. I was still grateful that they didn't bring him or the accident up. It was enough serious talk for today.

The day went away like this, sharing stories and memories, and at the end of it I started to feel more relaxed around them. The Cullens had several bedrooms, and they invited us to stay. Jake needed to handle a few phone calls with his guys about the shop, he was missing from work two days now. So while we all took our rooms, he was out on the porch making his phone calls.

Alex got his own room next to Izzy and me. We all could have all our own rooms for the night, and Esme said, but I wanted to share it with Izzy. It made me feel safer to know that she is next to me.

So, what do you think? - I asked her quietly while she sat down on the bed and gave me her hairbrush.

We both changed into pajamas, and I sat behind her with the hairbrush and started to brush her long black hair. I always did that when she was little, it was one of my favorite traditions. Lately, we stopped doing it. She is so grown now, she only has one year before her growth stops completely. The fact that she asked me to brush her hair, made me smile. She knew I needed to take care of her in order to feel in control again, and the old habit made me calmer. I am so lucky to have her as my sister.

Well, the whole thing is weird. - she said. - But they seem nice, and I guess it's a good thing. We will have more family. - I stopped brushing for a minute. I couldn't see her face, but I knew she was being honest. I could always tell that.

Really? I am surprised you say that. I thought… I don' know, I thought it's going to weird you out, or scare you.

Because now it's sure that we are not from the same father? I think it's logical. Neither of us has any wolf qualities. I know Klan tried to explain why the vampire side of us dominates more… but I don't think you actually believed it.

She was right. We talked about everything. All the time. But the one topic we tried to avoid was our father… or at least our so-called father. He told us we are sisters by blood, that he is our father, we just have different mothers. He said the vampire part of him dominates in our genes… that we probably never turn into a wolf. And since there were no other hybrids who were part wolf, part vampire and part human, we could never know for sure. And we never mentioned it, because secretly we both wanted to stick to the fact that we are sisters by blood. Until now.

No, I don't think I believed it. But Izzy, listen to me. - I stopped brushing her hair, and I slowly turned her around on the bed. Her big blue eyes looked uncertain. - It doesn't matter. It never did. We have a bond that no one ever could overwrite or take from us, and it has nothing to do with blood. You will always be my sister, and I love you so much. - I hugged her closely and I let out a tired sigh.

I missed holding her. It wasn't a long time ago when she was just a baby in my arms.

Are you fantasizing again about my baby years? - she asked and I could hear the playful smile in her voice.

Maybe.

Stop it. It's embarrassing. I am all grown up now. - she huffed like a real teenager. I laughed at that.

No, no. I still have a whole year with you as a growing teenager girl. - she rolled her eyes and took the brush out of my hands.

I want to brush your hair too. - she said with a sweet smile, and I turned around with a smile so she could start working on my hair.

By the way, I am glad you like them. I like them too. I am still uncertain what kind of relationship I want with them, but the fact that you think they can be part of our family makes it easier. Thank you, little sis.

It's okay. - she said quietly. - And I love you too by the way. - she added and I had to smile at that.

Half of the shit I survived because of her. The need to take care of her, and the purpose to give her a better life than I ever had made me a fighter.

There was a knock on the door, and Alex stepped in with a pillow between his hands.

This house is crazy. The bed is so comfortable I can't even sleep in it. - he said while plopping down on the comfy rug with his pillow. I laughed.

Yeah, it's definitely different from sleeping on the ground for so many years.

For sure. And remember when the four of us had to share that shitty broken mattress for a year?

The memory made me smile. The first time we moved back to his grandparents house, money was tight. The restaurant was at the brink of bankruptcy, and they only had two extra bedrooms. We started to rebuild them slowly, so for a long time the three of us, and our little brother Carl who was seven years old at the time slept in the same room on the same mattress. It sounds awkward and uncomfortable, but actually it's a really nice memory. I loved sleeping around my loved ones, it made me sleep better. And this way we were always there when the little ones had nightmares.

Alex got comfortable on the carpet, which was actually as big and fluffy as a bed.

You staying? - I asked with a smile.

You bet I do. - he smirked. - I don't feel comfortable leaving you two in a different room. It's super weird that a bunch of vampires are just a few feet away from us.

Yeah, I know. - I whispered, although I know they can all hear us downstairs.

Izzy finished brushing my hair, and when she got under the covers next to me, someone else knocked on the door. I told them to come in, and Jake appeared in the door. For a moment he seemed surprised to see a very comfortable grinning Alex on the carpet, but then he raised his eyes at me. The calmness that washed over me just by his presence was unnerving.

Come to join the slumber party? - I asked with a small smile. He smiled back and shook his head.

I just wanted to check if you guys are okay, and need anything… before I leave. - he added the last vaguely.

You are leaving? - I couldn't stop the disappointment in my voice.

You don't want me to? - his smirk caught me off guard for a minute.

No…yes, I mean, I get it. You have a business, you probably need to work tomorrow. I just wanted to thank you for helping me yesterday. - I added quickly and politely. I cannot show any interest in him, it's not right. For a minute he just studied my face and then cleared his throat.

Yes, I do have to work tomorrow. - he added with a sour expression. - But I don't really want to leave… I just wanted to let you know that I am available if you need anything, you have my number … and you guys could come to my shop tomorrow and we could have lunch together.

That sounds great. Thank you Jake. - I smiled at him, and after wishing us good night he left. I was lost in my thoughts until Alex decided to chim in.

Hey, Izzy, did you notice how invisible we were at this conversation? - he had a smug smile on his stupid face.

We sure were. - added Izzy with a giggle. - It seemed like Jake only had eyes for you.

Okay, I am not sure I like that she is a teenager now.

Yes, very interesting. And our dear sister seemed very sad by his departure. - I should have sent him back to his room. - You are leaving? - he added in his best impression of my voice, and I threw a pillow at his laughing head.

Shut up, and sleep. Both of you.

And with that I got up and turned the lights off.

The floor was wet and cold. I wasn't sure if the wetness was water or blood, or maybe both.

But I was sure that I was laying on it in the past few minutes, and I needed all my strength to get up. My side hurt like hell, I was sure that a few of my ribs were broken. One of my eyes was so swollen from the punches I could barely see a thing. The fact that I couldn't move my right leg without feeling the burning pain indicated that it was broken as well.

It doesn't matter, I will not back down. I took a deep breath, clenched my teeth and pushed myself up into a sitting position. My stomach was bleeding and my arms were full of small cutes as well. I wanted to scream from the pain, but that would just give him satisfaction and I will not give him that. Never.

He was sitting on a chair in front of me with a cold and bored expression. The room was mostly dark, but I could still see his red eyes and his white skin.

You hybrids are so weak. I don't know why he bothers with you. - his voice sounded beautiful and scary at the same time.

He looked like the same age as me. Around eighteen. And still, he was one of the oldest, coldest vampires who worked for Klan. He was his favorite torturer. He only leashed him on me when he was very disappointed. I didn't give him the satisfaction to react to his lame comment, I just stared at him stubbornly.

It wasn't enough little one? - his smirk made me sick to my stomach. He was playing with the knife in his hands and he stood and slowly walked towards me. I took everything in me not to crawl back into a corner. I wouldn't make any sense, he would catch me, and he would just enjoy the chase more.

Unfortunately, I am not allowed to kill you. - he lifted my chin in his cold hands, and put the knife close to my neck. - But that doesn't mean I can't torture you a little more…

I woke up panting, and I barely had time to muffle my screams in the pillow. I sit up straight and took in my surroundings.

Izzy was soundly sleeping next to me, and from the moonlight shining through the window I could see Alex doing the same on the carpet. Good, I didn't woke them up.

But I couldn't slow my breathing. I slowly pushed down the comforters, tiptoed around Alex, and got out of the room.

The bathroom was just across from our room. I went in, and washed my face at the sink. My hair was a mess, and my eyes were wide with fear.

It's okay. I told myself in the mirror. You are safe. The one who tortured you like that is dead already. It will not happen again. It's okay. Breathe in, breathe out.

I've tried a breathing technique that I learned for handling PTSD and panic attacks, and I could feel my heartbeat slowly calming down. I used to have these dreams for a year or two after we escaped, but I worked through them and they disappeared years ago. The fact that I was in a house full of vampires must have brought it out.

I knew I needed time to fall back to sleep again, so I slowly went down the stairs into the living room. Edward, Bella, Alice and Jasper were in the living room, and an old black and white movie was going on at a minimal volume. The fact that they were up all night, while we were sleeping unprotected bothered me so much that I started to feel my anxiety creeping back again.

My eyes met with Edward's, and I could tell that he saw my dream in my head. His face was pure agony, and he looked at me with such sadness that I had to avert my eyes.

I just.. wanted to get some tea. - my voice was trembling and I hated it.

Of course, let me make you some. - I heard Bella's voice, and she went to the kitchen.

At the same moment a sense of calmness washes over me, and I could finally breathe again. It was weird and unnatural, but it made me so calm that I could go and sit with them on the couch. In a minute or so Bella came back with a mug of hot chamomile tea. I took it from her with a small smile. The whole scene, and everything I was feeling felt off.

Are you guys.. doing something with me right now? - it was a weird question to ask, but anything can happen.

Oh, yes. I can control emotions. You were so distressed, I thought a little calmness would feel nice. - added Jasper with a kind smile. I furrowed my brows and thought about what he said.

No… no, please don't do that. I learned to deal with my trauma in a natural way, I have techniques and methods and I trust in those. Manipulating emotions is not healthy. How am I supposed to learn to handle them on my own, if you handle them for me?

Sorry. - he sounded shell-shocked for a minute. I don't think many people refused to feel good before. - I just wanted to help.

I know. - I sighed. - I am sorry, I know. But I have come a long way, and I am proud of who I am and how I overcome my fears and troubles. I don't mean I am perfect, and I am always okay, but I learned how to handle my emotions, even the negative ones. We need those too.

That is understandable. - he nodded with a smile that showed me that he really did understand and after that he and Alice stood up and left.

Bella and Edward looked between each other, and I took a sip from my tea.

I don't know how to say this, or how to make you feel safe. - Edward said after a long time. - I am usually very good with words, but I feel lost right now. I am just so sorry that you went through so much pain. I wish I could go back in time and save you from all of it. I am sorry we weren't there… I am sorry we haven't found you sooner. And I am sorry that your experiences with vampires are so brutal. But right now all I could do is to tell you how much we love you. How much we want to be part of your life, and I will tell you every day how much I am sorry that you grew up without us.

I was sure if vampires could cry, he would have shed a few tears now. Bella looked like she could cry too, and I felt the prickling sensation of tears in my eyes.

You don't have to apologize anymore. - I added after clearing my throat. - I understand…and I think I believe you, it's just hard you know. With all that I went through. I need time to get to know you… and to get used to this. But I am willing to try.

It's all we could ask for. - he added with a kind smile.

Love at first sight

In the morning we were woken up by the smell of fresh bacon and eggs. We all went down, and a picture perfect family scene waited for us in the kitchen. Esme and Bella were cooking all the breakfast food that was available. Eggs, bacon, french toast, pancakes, hash browns, and the fresh smell of coffee was in the air as well.

The others were scattered around in the living either watching TV and having a conversation. Everyone said good morning when we entered, and all three of us politely said it back. It was weird and comforting at the same time. I looked at Alex to see how he handles this, but he was already going through half of his plate by the counter. Izzy and I both rolled our eyes at his disgusting appetite and we sat down next to him. Esme instantly put a plate in front of us. A fellow caretaker. Kindred spirits always recognize each other. I smiled at her gratefully. For some reason I could imagine her as my mother. But I was still struggling to accept the young girl who stood next to the stove.

She looked a bit like me, and probably with time I could get used to the fact that she was so young. What I could not get used to is how quiet she was, and how sadly she stared at me. I am sure the years were hard on her, but she looked so depressed I just didn't know how to handle it. The fact that I didn't understand her either didn't help at all. She was familiar, she looked a little bit like me, and yet she was so far away I didn't know how to connect with her.

She could probably sense that I was staring at her, because she suddenly looked at me.

I tried to smile at her, but it felt so forced and awkward that I just sighed and started to eat instead.

Nessie, after you finished with your meal, can I show you something? - asked Carlisle. I was almost finished so I nodded at stood up.

Of course.

He led the way to his study, which opened into a full medical examination room. Edward was walking with us as well. Carlisle went to his desk and pulled out a big notebook.

We thought you might want to take a look at this. I started this journal after you were born. You can find every medical detail, notes about your development, and some pictures as well.

I took the notebook carefully and opened it up. And there I was… as a baby. I obviously didn't have any pictures of myself as a child. Klan wasn't big on family pictures, but I could still tell from my chocolate brown eyes that it was me.

Carlisle led a very detailed description about everything I ate, about my behavior, about my growth sprout. As a nurse, it was fascinating to see.

Then I started to check the pictures as well. I was always in someone else's arms. And in every single picture, the little me was smiling. It seems like I was a happy baby at least.

I have a very detailed journal about the time when I stopped drinking blood altogether and my body started to change. I can send it to you if you are interested. - I said while I was still studying the pictures about me.

Yes, I am very interested. Thank you.

I made a mental note to send it to him later.

We have more pictures you know. A few videos too. About the family.. about your mother as well, when she was still a human. Would you like to see them? - asked Edward with a tentative smile. I smiled back and nodded.

In the next few hours we were all sitting down in the living room going through photo albums and videos on the TV. Alice had a whole album in which I was dressed into different princess dresses. They had videos where I was playing the piano with Edward, or running and playing outside with Jacob. And they had hundreds of pictures of me hugging Bella or someone else from the family. I seemed like a happy child.

If it was not for the similarity with the pictures I could have sworn it wasn't me. I couldn't remember anything. It all felt familiar… but no memories came back.

I saw pictures and videos of Bella as well. She seemed like such an awkward teenager. But every picture that was about her and Edward, she seemed so in love. She sacrificed so much for that love. But I tried not to think about that.

Jake's POV

I hit my head the second time in the car and this time I swore loudly.

I was under an old car, trying to finish up the repairs I had started a week ago, but my thoughts kept coming back to Nessie.

Actually they were about her ever since she was born.

But in the past fourteen years it was full of sadness, regret and pain. And I tried my best to numb it. Since I met her in the woods two days ago… It was full of hope and anticipation. She was alive… she was okay… and she was here.

And God, she was so gorgeous.

I tried not to think about that, since all of this was so new. She needed time to process all this, and I needed to be her friend first. Like I was before.

Back when she was little it was so easy to be around her like breathing. It came as a reflex. I saw her as my best friend, as a beautiful, sweet innocent child. Maybe deep down I knew that one day she will grow up to be a gorgeous woman and she will be the love of my life, but my thoughts never really went there. The imprint bond was growing with her. She was a child, so I was a friend to her.

But now, it's so much different. I can't deny the feelings she woke up in me, and as much as I try I can't deny the desire either.

Seriously dude, just call her. You are a mess today. - commented Embry next to me. He was working on another car.

No, I don't want to smother her. She needs time with her family, and she will come here for lunch around noon.

I conveniently left out the part where Edward specifically asked me yesterday to leave and give them time together. He gave me a speech about how grateful he is that she is back, and that I called them, but they need time with her, Bella is so sad that she doesn't remember them, and she needs time to breath and process all this.

You don't want to smother her, do you? His stupid voice rang in my head.

It was emotional manipulation, of course. But in a way, he was right. They lost their child, and it was a miracle that she came back like this. They deserved time with her.

But I was an impatient man, so I could only give them the night and the morning. The look Edward gave me when I left last night was priceless. I bet he wasn't anticipating that I will ask them all for lunch here.

My phone chimed with the promise of a text and I quickly checked it.

We will be there in half an hour, is that okay? - Nessie.

Perfect. - Jake

I got up from the car and went back to the office. A small bathroom opened from there, and I quickly jumped in and washed off the grease and dirt from my body.

As I was pulling down my shirt and going back to the office, I saw Quil looking absent-mindedly to the computer in front of him.

Wow, a shirt. Big date? - he asked with a grin.

No, not a date. She is coming with her brother and sister.

This is weird dude. That she grew up with a shapeshifter like us. Do you think it will increase your chances? She seemed so comfortable around us.

Yeah, I think she is actually more comfortable with us than with the vampires. - I said with a smile, but I instantly felt a sting of guilt. The Cullens loved her, they were her family, and it was heartbreaking to see how distant she acts around them. But it still felt nice that she liked us more.

Quil looked back at the laptop, he was handling invoices this morning, and he had that distant sadness in his eyes that ruled my life in the past few years.

Listen dude, we could go and look for Claire anytime you…

I don't want to talk about her. - he interjected with a quick but stern look on his voice. I sighed and went back to the garage.

It was like this ever since Claire left. Her story was a bit different than Nessie's. She was six years old, when Emily and Sam thought it would be okay if they would explain to her parents about shapeshifters and imprinting, because they started to question why Quil spends so much time with their daughter.

The conversation did not go well. They freaked out, called him a monster, and the next week they moved away. They broke every contact with Emily as well, and took Claire with them. Emily was devastated that her own sister could do that, but they slowly accepted it. It was their child and their decision.

It broke Quil on a different level. He changed. Sometimes we could see the old, funny and nice Quil, but most of the time he was just quiet and passive. It was the opposite of me, I was always angry. And no one understood him. We all told him that we could go after them, try to convince them, but he said no.

At first we understood it. She was a child, we couldn't just take her away from her parents, and if they hate him so much… it would be just fuel to the fire.

But after years went by, and Claire became 18, he still refused to go and find her. He kept saying that it is better this way.

I would have given everything to find Nessie…so I really didn't understand how he just gave up like that.

I walked through the garage into the reception area, and I was still wrapped up in my thoughts about Quil when Nessie's truck pulled into our driveway. She got out, and her sister and brother were following her inside. She was wearing the same ripped black jeans like yesterday, but instead of a t-shirt she wore a white top which fitted her figure perfectly. Her hair was in a cute messy bun, and I just couldn't stop staring at her.

Luckily, Embry noticed my trance and quickly got up to greet them. While he introduced himself, I cleared my throat and walked up to them.

Hi guys. How was your night?

Slept like a baby. - answered Alex with a smirk. - Those vampires are not that bad, they made us a killer breakfast this morning.

Oh, yeah. Esme can cook.

I slept well too, until Nessie disappeared. - murmured Izzy and I looked at Nessie for an answer. She sighed.

I am sorry that I scared you. I just had a bad dream and didn't want to wake you up, so I went downstairs.

You could have told me. - Izzy seemed very grumpy this morning, but I was still looking at Nessie.

Bad dram? How bad? Maybe I shouldn't have left last night. And I couldn't stop the next thought that came into my mind… she didn't have a bad dream at my place.

Anyway, let's see where Jake is working. - Nessie didn't want to talk about the dream, and everyone let it go when she started to walk into the garage.

For a few minutes I was anxious. I bought this old house six years ago, and together with the guys we renovated it into this garage. It had a small reception area in the front, where Mrs. T worked, who was friends with Embry's mother. She was a lady in her sixties, but I swear she looked like she was fourty. Everyone loved her in La Push, and her only job was to take the phone calls and to welcome the clients. From the reception opened a small office and a bathroom, and from there the big garage area at the back. It was nothing big, the three of us worked as mechanics, Mrs. T was the receptionist, and I had a guy who did the books and some other stuff.

I started to feel self-conscious as she walked inside. This is definitely not as impressive as her business…

Mrs. T was on a lunch break, so she couldn't say hi to her, but I took it over and gave them a little tour and Embry went back to the garage to continue his work.

You rebuilt the whole thing? - she asked.

With the guys, but yeah.

That is so cool. - she smiled, and I let out an anxious exhale.

Do you have a lot of clients? - asked Alex.

Yes, actually. We are planning to add another garage, and to hire two more mechanics. This is the only shop in La Push, and the one in Forks will close soon, so we will have even more business in the future. And I also do antique care renovation for collectors, which brings in a lot of extra cash.

Impressive. - said Nessie with a smile.

Maybe you could look at her car as well. - added Alex with a grin.

No need. - said Nessie quickly and gave Alex a stern look. - Nothing wrong with it.

It's too old. And you said it gives out weird noises. Unfortunately, I am not an expert on cars either and I have been trying to convince her to take it to mechanics for a year now, but she is too stubborn.

I looked up online, I know what to do with it, and I am not stubborn. - she crossed her arms in a very sweet and stubborn way and Alex rolled his eyes.

Online? - I asked with a raised eyebrow.

She found a youtube video. - chimed in Izzy, and my smile grew a bit more.

Seriously? You are awful with cars. You are awful with everything that requires technical skills. Remember how long you struggled with your IKEA furnitures in your studio? You needed four hours to put together a fucking book case. How will you fix your car with a youtube video? - Alex seemed annoyed and amused at the same time.

It was a very educational video. - she added with the same stubborn expression on her face.

I am sure it was. - I added with a small laugh. - But as a nurse, would you let me treat a patient after watching a youtube video about it?

She opened her mouth to argue, but after a second closed it with a defeated sigh.

No, I guess not.

Well then, I can't let you drive a car, which is not safe, if you tried to fix it on your own after watching a youtube video. Leave it here, I will take a look at it tomorrow, until then I will take you guys for lunch.

She rolled her eyes but at the same time smiled at me, and nodded. Alex was studying me closely, and the way he was looking at me for a minute I thought he knows I am imprinted on Nessie, but then he shook his head and walked out in front of us.

I took them to Sue's dinner. Sue was on a holiday with Charlie this week, and I still didn't talk with Bella about that. Do they want to tell this to Charlie? He thought that Nessie died, that was the easiest version to tell him. And for a long time, the Cullens thought as well. He went to that bullshit funeral as well. I was the only one who knew she was still alive.

Charlie is pretty good with weirdness, he knew about us wolves as well by now, but I am not sure how he would handle this.

And Nessie didn't know he had a grandpa here either.

I went in with the girls, and Alex excused himself to take a few phone calls. The dinner reminded him that he has a restaurant at home as well, and he needed to handle a few things.

Leah was behind the counter and when she saw us sitting down in a booth, she raised her eyebrows and started to walk to us. I tried to give her my most stern look, which held a message: Don't be mean.

But it seemed like she wanted to ignore it.

You seriously brought them here? - her tone was bitchy and clipped. It was hard to be around Leah, she got better over the years, I think she mostly healed from Sam, and she was a good friend, but still she was very bitchy when it was about vampires or imprints.

You are one of the wolves from the wood. - Nessie remembered. - That is so cool, my grandma was a she-wolf as well. I am so happy to meet you. I am Nessie. - she seemed so excited and she held out her hand to Leah, who was shocked for a minute. I am pretty sure neither of us heard about another she-wolf before. Nessie only said that her grandma was her grandpa's imprint, but she didn't mention that she was a wolf.

I know who you are. - she didn't shake her hands and Nessie dropped it with her smile as well. - And you are not related to shapeshifters. You are a leech, and I don't want to have you in my dinner. - then she looked at Izzy. - Or your little leech sister either.

Izzy looked like she was gonna start crying at any minute, but Nessie had a hard emotionless expression on her face.

I felt my anger bubbling inside of me. Nessie went through so much pain, she really doesn't need this right now. But before I could intervene, she started to speak in a cold even tone.

I don't know what happened to you that made you act like such a bitch. But I honestly don't give a shit. You don't know me, you don't know the stuff I went through. I could act like a bitch as well, but I choose not to. The fact that you think you can talk like this with us, shows that you are the type of person who takes out her anger on others, and gladly acts like a bitch because it makes you feel better for a few minutes. That is your choice. I also don't give a shit if you insult me, but try to insult my sister again and you will get to know what I am capable of.

Her tone was deadly, and for a few seconds it made Leah shut up. Which was surprising, because she always had a good come-back. She lived for the fights. Nessie looked like an angry mama bear, and I was ready to jump in between us when the door opened and Alex walked in.

Sorry guys for the phone call. Nessie, did you order for me? I am starving. - Leah slowly turned around and she looked locked eyes with Alex.

Alex stopped in his tracks and his eyes were wide. For a few minutes both of them just stared at each other, and their breathing was rapid.

I only saw one wolf from my pack imprint before, and I don't think anyone ever saw two wolves imprinting on each other at the same time. It was mesmerizing. They were breathing in sync, and the emotions in their eyes were changing so fast. From surprise, to fear, to wonder, to utter and complete love and devotion.

What is happening right now? - asked Izzy with a whisper, she felt that this moment is too magical to speak loudly.

If I am correct, they just imprinted on each other. - Nessie was stunned. - This is so cool. - she added with a smile.

I couldn't stop grinning. Maybe I could tell her she is my imprint soon.

Nessie's POV

After our initial shock, Alex introduced himself to Leah, who seemed like a totally different person. Gone was the bitchy mood, and in its place was a dazed and confused woman. It seemed like she totally forgot that she wanted to kick us out a few minutes ago.

We all ordered lunch, and then she disappeared to get our drinks.

I took a good look at Alex. He had a goofy smile on his face, and he was watching after Leah when she disappeared behind the counter.

I always wanted this for him. And the fact that he can have what grandpa and grandma had, was a gift. It made me happy. And I knew I will have to have a good relationship with Leah, which she probably also wants to have when she understands the bond we share with her imprint.

But just because I was happy for him, I didn't mean that I will just let go the way she talked to us. When she came back with our drinks, Alex tried to make her stay.

Do you have a few minutes? I would like to introduce you to my sisters. - his smile was so genuine, I barely see him smile like this lately, without the sarcastic hint of a smile at all. And I think Leah could hear the endearment in the word sisters, because she looked very uncomfortable for a minute.

Oh, we introduced ourselves already. - I smiled sweetly at her. - Do you still want us leeches to leave?

Jake chuckled and quickly covered it up with a cough. Alex looked between us with a confused and pained expression, and Leah seemed shell-shocked. Izzy was looking down at the table, and she was playing with the straw in her drink. She really hated confrontations. In the moment I realized calling her out in front of him wasn't the best idea.

We can solve this later, between us girls. I don't want Alex to think we couldn't get along, I can see that it already pains him. But on the other hand, just because she is his imprint, she needs to understand that he is our brother, and blood doesn't matter here. She can't ruin that. I gave her a meaningful look, and she held my gaze. I think she understood that the ball was in her court. She can decide to fight me, and take this further, or she can apologize and I will let it go.

No, of course not. - she said it with a sigh. - I am… sorry. For what I said. - it seemed like she wasn't used to apologizing, but I could see it in her eyes that she meant it.

What did you say to them? - Alex wasn't angry, he sounded so sad that I saw Leah flinch. But before she could answer, I threw her a lifeline.

Nothing. It's all good now, right Leah? - I gave a small genuine smile and she gave me the same.

Yes. All good, Nessie. I am going to go check on your food. - and with that she disappeared behind the counter again.

Alex still looked confused, but Jake looked at me with a prideful smile, and it almost made me blush. I don't think I blushed in the last few years, and the fact that he could do that to me with a smile made me anxious.

Leah brought out our food, and Alex tried to make her stay, but she couldn't, because the lunch crowd was in.

Jake explained to us that since her mother was on a holiday, Leah was running the restaurant. They were short-handed on staff in the past few weeks. Her brother, Seth, who was the other wolf I met in the woods, also helped out a lot, but he was also working on construction and he needed to be there today.

Seems like you found your perfect match. Both of you are wolves, both of you are good at running restaurants. - I smiled at Alex.

Yeah. And she is really hot.

We all laughed at that.

That's important too. - I said while grinning.

Hey, Nessie. Would be okay if … - he seemed so hesitant, that I finished the question for him.

If you stayed and talked with her? Of course. We promised the Cullens that we will be back after lunch anyway, and you two need time to get to know each other.

Alex said he will pay our bills, so we left without saying bye to Leah. She seemed so busy, I don't think she noticed it. In the car, I turned around to Izzy who was sitting in the backseat.

What do you think, baby sis? - she was so quiet, that I had to remind myself to ask her opinion all the time. Otherwise, she would just keep it in.

Well, to be honest I am not sure I like her yet. She seemed very rude.

Both Jake and I laughed at that.

She usually is. She went through some… stuff. But I guess that is not an excuse, just like you said earlier. - he looked at me with the same prideful smile like in the Diner. - But she is trying to be better. And I think this will be good for her. She deserves to be happy.

Then I guess I will like her with time. - answered Izzy, and her positive attitude made me smile.

I think I already like Leah. She has a style for sure, and she was really rude, but she is also spicy and I bet she is fiercely protective of the ones she loves. That is something I can relate to.

Jake took us back to the Cullens on a longer road, and the fact that he wanted to spend more time with us made me smile.

I want to tell you something. - he blurted out suddenly.

Okay. - I looked at him, waiting for what he wanted to share. He seemed nervous.

How did Bella told you about your grandfather?

Grandfather?

Yes, Charlie.

Well, I knew she lived with him in Forks. That he is a police officer, but he is retired now. That's all actually.

Well, he married Sue a few years ago. She is Leah's and Seth's mother. And they still live here… in Forks. And they are on a holiday together now.

Oh, okay. - well this was definitely new.

And he thinks you are dead.

What? - I raised my voice and I saw Izzy's big blue eyes staring at us in the front mirror.

After you disappeared, we looked for you for years. But the Cullens thought it's a lost cause and they held you funeral… and you know Charlie was going mad, like he tried to use police forces to help, but since you were supernatural, you weren't really registered as a normal child into the system, so he couldn't do that in the official way, and it made him crazy. So, the Cullens told him you died. And he was grieving and stuff. - Jake's voice got quieter, and he was holding the wheel with a strong grip. It was hard for him to talk about this, and I instinctively put my hand on his shoulder. He seemed to relax by that.

I don't know if you want to meet him, or if it would be a good idea. But now Leah will be part of your family too, and I thought… you needed to know about this.

Thank you for telling me.

We arrived at Cullen's house, and for a few minutes we were all quiet. This was a lot to process. I have a human grandfather, who thinks I am dead. Great.

Your life starts to sound like a Spanish telenovela. - commented Izzy from the back, and both Jake and I erupted into laughter. Even though she was the quiet one, she could say the smartest or funniest things when she decided to speak.

Do guys hide an evil step-sister of mine as well? - I asked Jake with a grin.

We might. - he said with a laugh, then he noticed something on the driveway that distracted him. - Seth is here.

Leah's brother?

Yes, that is his car. He is probably here to see Edward, they haven't met in years.

Are they friends? - I asked as we stepped out of the car and started to walk up to the house.

Kind of, yes. Seth was always a big fan of the Cullens. And trust me, he is a lot nicer than Leah. You guys will like him.

We went inside, and heard talking from the terrace. I could see the native man, who had similar features to Jake, but still somehow he was more boyish. He was laughing at something that Edward said.

Hey Seth. Remember Nessie? - asked Jake as we stepped out to the terrace. I smiled at him, and he gave a big genuine smile that basically showed all his teeth. He seemed like a very enthusiastic person.

Of course. It's good to see you.

You too, Seth. And this is my sister, Izzy.

As soon as Izzy stepped out next to me, Seth met her eyes and he froze. His smile disappeared, and his eyes widened. In them I could see hundreds of emotions in a minute, just like I saw it in Alex's two hours ago. He seemed shocked, but then slowly his smile came back, and his gaze was full of adoration. And it was all directed to my sister.

I felt all the color drain from my face, and from my side view I could see Jake and Edward looking at me worriedly. But all I could focus on now was Izzy. She looked surprised and shocked, but at the same time she was dazed, and she gave a small tentative smile.

Shit. This can't be happening.

Overwhelmed

Jake's POV

I didn't understand what made her so angry and scared.

The moment Seth imprinted on Izzy, Nessie looked at them in horror. Like this is the worst thing that could ever happen. Her face was white and she even had trouble with breathing, and it looked like she was in some kind of trance. When Edward stood next to her and touched her arm, she jumped a little and then she collected herself. Edward had a very sad and understanding face, which just annoyed me. He sees her thoughts, of course he will understand what's happening.

The next moment Nessie cleared her throat, and before Seth, Izzy or anyone could say anything, she sent her sister up to their room and told Seth to follow her with such an authority that no one dared to question her. Izzy looked hurt and confused, but she bowed her head and went inside.

Nessie started to walk into the woods and both Seth and I followed her. Edward decided to stay behind, he probably already knew what she wanted.

When we were at the skirt of the woods, but we could still see the house, she stopped and turned around. Her eyes were stone-cold. I don't think I've ever seen her this serious before. Of course I didn't know her grown-up self for a long time.

Seth seemed very confused. He kept looking at me, like I could answer his questions, but I didn't have any idea what was happening.

I asked Seth to follow, not you. - she gave me an annoyed look, and I tried no to be hurt by her words. - But if you are worried that I will hurt him, you can stay.

Hurt him? What the hell? That didn't even come to my mind. Seth looked a bit scared now.

What's the problem? - he asked with a tentative smile. Whenever there was a confrontation, Seth always tried to relieve the tension in the room.

The problem is that you imprinted on my sister. She is too young for this. I know she looks like a 16 year old, but she grew up very fast and in a very sheltered way, because of the shits we went through. And I don't need a twenty-something man falling in love with her.

It's not like that. - protested Seth. - I will be whatever she needs me. A friend. Anything. I would never push her into a romantic relationship so soon.

Really? - Nessie raised an eyebrow. - And if she says that she wants to be friends forever? If she never wants to date you?

Seth seemed sad for a moment when he thought through the question, but he nodded automatically.

I want her to be safe and happy, and if I am only a friend in that picture, that's okay.

Nessie seemed shocked for a minute. She studied Seth for a minute, and by his honest expression she seemed to calm down a notch.

How much do you know about imprinting? - I asked her.

My grandpa imprinted on my grandpa, and she did as well, because she was a wolf. It was love at first sight for them, the romantic let's-get-married tomorrow type of love. Two other wolves imprinted in our pack as well, it was instantly romantic as well. - she said hesitantly.

Almost everyone imprinted on my pack. If they are at a similar age that's how it usually works. But not always, I knew wolves who imprinted on children… - I spoke in an even tone and hoped my face was unreadable. This was really not the time to tell her she is my imprint.

That sounds disgusting.

Wait, no. It wasn't romantic. If the imprint is young, it's just a friendship. It's a need to protect her, to keep her safe, and make her happy. There is nothing romantic in it.

And if the imprint grows up?

Well.. that's up to them.

She held my gaze for a minute, and I saw how scared she was. She just tried to mask it with anger. It broke my heart, why did this scared her so much?

I would never force her into anything, I swear. I just want to get to know her. - Seth sounded desperate, and looked back at the house, probably hoping that he could get a glance at her.

Would you be in pain if you could never see her again? - Nessie crossed her arms.

Seth's eyes grew in panic. I am sure he was thinking of Quil as well. How much it broke him when Claire's parents took her away. Nessie wouldn't ban him from her, right?

Yes. - Seth whispered. Nessie studied him for a long time before she spoke again.

Fine. - she sighed. - I will let you get to know her. But I have rules. - she raised a finger at Seth, like a kindergarten teacher to a misbehaving child. - I raised that girl up since she was a baby. I love her more than anything, and I put a lot of effort into keeping her safe and happy. You will not screw that up. - Seth tried to say something, but she shook her head and continued. - I know, you never would. - she rolled her eyes. - No offense, you seem like a nice guy. But I don't know, and you never know these things. Let's get back to the rules. Everything you want to do together, you ask permission from me. I know you are probably older than me, but I don't give a shit. - I grinned at that. It's the second time today I saw her in a mama bear state because of one of the Clearwater's, and I still found it hot. - She is my baby, and we will ease her into this slowly. You are allowed to be her friend, but you will not take this relationship to a romantic level before discussing it with me. There is a chance she will seem ready, but I want to make sure first. She has one more year of high school, and she will finish that up in New Mexico. We will not move here for you, so we will have to figure out a visiting schedule. - she took a deep breath and let it out slowly. Seth didn't even dare to move, he was just standing and nodding at her. - I want to get to know you too. It seems like our families will be intertwined on more than one level. - she let out a small smile at the end of her speech, but it seemed forced. Seth looked at me questioningly.

Leah imprinted on her brother Alex. - I said.

Leah? Imprinted? Really? - his enthusiastic smile was back. - That is so cool.

Yes, that's what she said at the Diner too. - I looked back at Nessie. - Why is that cool and this one freaks you out?

She seemed hesitant at first, and looked back at the house and then to the forest. She was avoiding eye-contact.

Because he is a grown-up man, and a shapeshifter. It's different on so many levels. Anyway, let's go back. I want to talk with Izzy too.

Do you want to tell her? - asked Seth.

I think she already knows, but we will see.

Nessie' POV

Izzy was sitting on the bed in our shared bedroom, and she was looking out the window to the forest. Just where we were a few minutes ago. I sighed and closed the door behind me. I asked the boys to stay down there.

Am I in trouble? - she asked tentatively, and for a minute I was shocked. I tend to forget that her experience with Klan was very different from mine.

While I was angry and I attacked, she grew fearful and she hid. She followed rules without objection, and she was terrified of causing trouble or making people angry. She saw too much dark stuff when people got angry.

Even as a child, she was so obedient, I never had to yell or fight with her. When she started to become a teenager I thought this would change, I gave her more space, I anticipated her to rebel against me a little, like every normal teenage girl, but no. And even though it made things easier, it also worried me. She suppresses her emotions too much, and she wants to please everyone. I feel guilty that whenever something happens, she is afraid it's her fault. And I wish I could change that, but there are some traumas and hardships in everyone's souls that we can only work through alone, and others can only support us.

Of course not. Why would you think that? - I sat next to her.

You seemed so angry.

Not at you. Just at the… situation. You did nothing wrong. But even if you do something wrong in the future, it's okay. We can always talk things through. You know that, right?

Okay. - she whispered and nodded.

Her beautiful blue eyes were still focused on the forest outside. I took a minute to study her. She was a beautiful child, but she was turning into a beautiful woman right in front of me. Her face was less round than a year ago, she was taller, she was curvier. And her ocean eyes hold something more mature and serious than they did before.

I really felt like a mother at the moment, who realized that soon she will have to let her baby go and fly on her own.

What happens now? - she asks.

First, do you know what happened downstairs?

He… imprinted on me, right? - she looked at me and blushed.

Yes. Did you… feel anything?

A pull towards him. Like I just need to be around him. - she blushed even deeper and I smiled at her.

That's okay. He probably feels something similar, just much stronger.

And why did that make you angry?

Honey, it's complicated for us. You know that. We are hybrids and if… - I bit my tongue because I really didn't want to scare her.

One thing at a time. I probably don't have to worry about them being together romantically for a year or so. I have time to figure out something. Something to help them.

You are young. - I went with the other reason, which is easier to explain. - It just hit me hard.

Do I have to date him now? - she whispered anxiously. I laughed at that.

You don't have to do anything. Ever. Didn't I teach you that already? You can make your own choices. - I held her hand. - Within reasonable boundaries of course. - I added with a wink.

Okay, but… what does he want?

He just wants to get to know you. Maybe become your friend. That's all.

I think I would like that. - she squeezed my hand.

In the next hour or so, Izzy was sitting outside on the terrace with Seth and they were talking. They were both laughing and smiling and the fact that he could ease my sister into laughing more than once in a conversation amazed me. She barely opened up to people she knew. This imprint thing really was something.

Jake left to get back to work, and I was inside with Edward. I wanted to give them space, but I wasn't comfortable enough to leave them entirely unsupervised so I sat down at the piano chair next to the big glass windows. Edward suggested that I could play the piano, show him what I know. Playing music really comforted me, and from his smile it looked like he knew it would.

I played a few classics, before he spoke again.

Seth is a great man. I have known him since he was fourteen. He has a good heart, a calm temper and he loves really deeply.

That sounds nice. - I nodded and started to play something that I wrote a few weeks ago. - Where are the others? - I asked absentmindedly.

Hunting, or shopping. - I was still playing the piano and he stood next to me. - Did you write this?

I just nodded and kept playing. Later he asked me to show him more of my songs, I showed them a few on spotify as well. I explained that sometimes I write the whole song, sometimes just the lyrics or just the tunes and then I sell them to famous pop stars. He asked about my favorite styles and artists, and he was surprised when I told him that I enjoy almost everything. He was a classical guy.

I loved classical music, I loved jazz, but I also loved hipp-hopp, rap, pop, rock and almost everything in between. A lot of musicians found that to be weird, but I found beauty in every form of music. I loved Spanish folk songs, and French lullabies just as much as I enjoyed Eminem or Rihanna. I even dabbled with writing rap songs, he found that fascinating.

I have a lot of thoughts and emotions, and I like to write them out. It's a form of therapy for me. And hearing them back on the radio, knowing that it might help someone else who struggles with the same things, just makes me happy. And earning a lot of money doesn't hurt either.

It's wonderful that you found a way to make yourself and others happy as well with your talent. How do you stay on the sides? How come you are not famous yet?

I am very careful. I have strict contracts with musicians, sometimes I sell the song in a way that my name is not on it at all. I work strictly from the background.

Is it hard? Would you like to be on a stage with your own songs? - he seemed concerned for a minute.

No. I like this better. I can coach and mentor other musicians, my music reaches a lot more people with different artists, than it would if I would be the only one playing them. And I don't care about fame, I want to live like a normal person. The people on the street don't know me, but the producers and artists in Hollywood do. It's funny actually. I am anonymous to the world, but I am famous among famous people.

I am very proud of you. - he said with a genuine smile and I stopped playing.

I never heard these words from my father. Who was not even my real father… he stole me aways from him. He is my real father. And I don't know how to feel about that anymore. I cleared my throat and stood up.

It's getting late. I am going to ask Izzy if she is hungry. - I hurried out to the terrace. Actually it was only around five, but I needed some air. - Are you guys hungry?

They were so engrossed with each other, that they didn't hear me until I asked my question.

Not yet. - said Izzy with a smile. She seemed so happy and relaxed.

I could always eat. - winked Seth. I forced out a smile.

Cool, me too. I am going to get some food. - I stormed down the stairs, and that's when I realized that my car was at Jake's shop.

You can take mine. - said Seth and threw the keys at me. I catched it in the air and nodded at him.

I needed to get away from her. I felt the panic settling in while I started the car. Before I drow away I saw Edward walking out into the terrace and looking at me with a sad expression.

I hit the gas and started to drive.

This was too much.

The man who raised me, who tortured me, who I somehow tried to love all my life and I tried to understand, wasn't even my father. He lied to me. Everything was a lie.

And my real father? He was a seventeen years old vampire.

Of course I knew he was a lot older than that, but his young looks confused me.

I barely had time to work through my grief after my accident, it was still suffocating sometimes. Thinking about the baby that I lost, brought tears to my eyes. I used one hand to dry them up and tried to take some deep breaths while I drove aimlessly.

I also had a mother, who was incredibly weird around me. She seemed so sad all the time, I just couldn't handle it. My grief was crippling enough, I didn't know how to handle hers. She lost me once, and I think she was disappointed that I wasn't that little girl she remembered.

Oh and of course I had a grandfather too.

And a whole bunch of other vampires who claimed to be my family.

And my only two stable points, my sister and brother, went through something today that will change our lives forever.

It was too much to process. I stopped the car and pulled aside when I felt the tears rushing down my face.

Deep breaths. Inhale, one, two, three. Keep it in, four, five, and let it out. Six, seven, eight.

I did a few more of these, and after a few minutes I could feel my breathing evening out and my tears drying up. I came out to get food, but I instantly drived to the little bar where Jake took me first.

Maybe they have food here too, or maybe I will just get a drink. I could definitely use one.

Jake's POV

Spending time away from Nessie, knowing that she is so close, was excruciating. I finished the repairs that I had to, and after seven PM I left the shop. I even had time to look at Nessie's car, which had some issues, but fortunately nothing major. I am glad she left it here though. Her youtube videos didn't help much with the issue.

Should I go and visit her? Or does she want to be with her family? I really didn't want to suffocate her with my constant presence, but it was so hard to be away from her.

Maybe I should just text her.

Hey, how are you doing? - Jake.

I waited a few minutes, but no answer. She was definitely busy. I got into my truck and drove around until I saw Seth's car outside of my favorite bar. He barely came here, weird.

But I stopped, because I definitely wanted to know how his talk went with Izzy.

It was so curious that he and Leah imprinted on the same day.

I walked into the bar, and as soon as I stepped foot inside I knew she was here.

Nessie was sitting beside the bar, she was wearing the same jeans and top that she did earlier today. Her face was red, her hair was messier, and her eyes were a little swollen. Right in front of her was a glass, and a half empty bottle of whiskey.

Oh, boy.

The bar was mostly empty, and Luke was tending to the two other guests who were sitting in a boot behind her. I walked up to Nessie.

Hey. - I gently touched her shoulders, because she didn't notice me walking towards her.

Hey. - she smiled at me slowly. Now that I was close I could tell that her eyes were swollen because she was crying today. I felt my heart pounding. Why was she crying? But before I could ask anything, she jumped up and hugged me. I was so surprised for a minute I didn't know what to do, but then my reflexes kicked in and I held her close to me. God, it felt so right. She lifted her face up.

You look handsome. - her speech was slow and her breath smelled like whiskey. I sighed.

Did you drink this on your own?

Yes. But you can stay and finish the rest with me. - she said while she sat back on the stool. She seemed unstable, so I left a hand on her back while I sat down next to her.

I am not sure that's a good idea.

Oh, come on. Don't ruin my fun. I am in a crisis. I need a friend to drink with me. - she said matter of factly and then went behind the bar and pulled out a fresh glass for me.

You are not supposed to go there. - I said with a grin.

Oh, Luke doesn't mind it. We became friends in the last hour. - she winked at me, and at the same time Luke walked up next to her.

True. I don't mind. This girl is good with liquor, she showed me a few tricks and how to make one of those fancy cocktails.

I worked in a bar, my friend and I like sharing my knowledge. - she winked at him too, and sat back next to me. Luke just shook his head and went back to the customers. Nessie poured me a drink.

Would you like to tell me why are you drinking here alone?

I am not alone. I was with Luke. And now I am with you.

Okay, but why are you bounding with Luke instead of .. you know? Spending time with your family.

Because he is chill. He doesn't freak me out like my so-called vampire family. Are you seriously going to make me feel guilty about this? - she sounded angry.

I didn't mean to.

Of course. I don't know what the fuck they expect of me. I am not their baby girl. - she drank the remaining of her glass and since I wasn't touching mine, she took and drank that too. - It's a lot okay. I've been through a lot, and I am usually good with processing it, but lately I can't. Because something always happens. My brother imprinted today! You know what that means? He will get marry pretty soon. And I am happy for him, I really am. But it's gonna change everything. I will probably have to move to make them space. And Izzy? She is just a baby. And she got imprinted on too. What's this town anyway? Imprint-land? For fuck's sake. I can't deal with this. She is so young, and she already looks at him like she wants to marry him. - I took her hand before she reached for the bottle again.

Hey, it's okay. Deep breaths. No one is marrying tonight, or in the next few months probably.

She nodded and started to hiccup. It was the cutest sound on earth, and I couldn't hide my grin.

Stop laughing at me. - she wanted to give me a stern look, but she almost falled down from her chair so I quickly put both of hand on her sides to keep her from falling.

I am not laughing.

You think I am pathetic. You know, probably I am. I went out to get food, but I had a stupid panic attack and I just came in to get drunk instead.

I sighed and her face with one of my hands. I slowly started to caress her cheeks and she held my gaze. She was so sad I wanted to wrap her up in a big hug and keep her to myself forever.

Did you tell anyone that you are here?

I ordered them pizza. And texted Izzy and Edward as well, told them I have some things to handle and I will get back later. What time it it? - she asked between two hiccups.

Nine.

Shit. I really don't want to get back there. - she poured herself another drink and quickly drank it. - I hate sleeping there.

Why? - I asked and tried to snatch the bottle aways from her but she held it to her chest.

Because of the nightmares. And do not try to steal my liquor again mister.

Fine. At least, try to eat something. Luke! - the bartender walked up to us. - Could you maybe make her some fries? I know the kitchen is closed by now, but she really needs something to absorb all this.

Of course, son. Don't worry. Your fries are coming, little missy. - Nessie smiled at him, then she leaned on me.

Do you have trouble holding yourself up? - I asked while I sneaked an arm around her waist. Just in case she falls of course.

Maybe I just like touching you.

My breath hitched as I felt her hands moving up on my arms, on my neck, on my face. She slowly traced my cheekbones and then my mouth.

You really are handsome. - she whispered. I looked down at her and she was so close that I would have moved one inch I could have kissed her.

She probably saw it in my eyes, because her chocolate brown orb became darker and her gaze focused on my mouth while her hand was still caressing my face. I sighed and pulled her hands aways. As much as I enjoyed this, she was drunk and sad. It was not the right time.

You are too drunk for this baby. - I couldn't stop the endearment before it left my mouth. She just giggled. Clearly, I had a point.

So, you are a gentleman. I like it. I knew there was a reason why I felt so safe around you.

That sentence warmed my heart, and I watched her with a smile as she dived into her fries after Luke put it in front of her. She was the perfect mix between sweet and sexy.

After she ate, she tried to order some tequila but I begged Luke not to sell her any. She got some water instead, and she was giving me a pouty look because of it.

I can handle my liquor. - she said it with a dramatic sigh. - You don't have to take care of me. I should go anyway. - she stood up and tripped, but I was fast enough to catch her.

Would you like to repeat that sentence? - I smirked.

Asshole. - she mumbled, but let me hold her waist while we left the bar.

I was a gentleman half an hour ago.

Well, I changed my mind. I really wanted that tequila.

Maybe another time. And you will not drive like this. - I pulled her away from Seth's car, and put her into mine. - I will text Seth that he can pick up his car from here tomorrow.

I am really good at leaving cars at random places. - she chuckled.

Your car is going to be ready in a day by the way.

You are my hero. - she mumbled while she closed her eyes. I watched her for a few minutes. Clearly she was still drunk, and I wasn't a fan of the idea of taking her back to Edward like this.

Nessie. Would you like to stay at my place tonight? In the guest bedroom. - I felt the need to add the last part. She opened her eyes and looked at me hazily.

But Izzy is alone…

She is okay. Trust me, the Cullens are nice and I am sure Seth stayed until the last minute.

I am so lame. I made all these rules, and I left them alone for the first time. - I could hear the guilt in her voice.

Seth loves and respects her. And Edward was there. You didn't leave them alone. It's okay if you need time to process all this. Nobody expects you to be okay with it instantly.

I think Bella does. - she mumbled drowsy and then she just fell asleep. I furrowed my brow. Why did she think that?

Well, she didn't give a clear answer, but I knew she didn't want to sleep there so I took her to my place. After I stopped the car, I sent a quick text to Edward to reassure him that she is okay and she will go back in the morning.

Then I took her phone and sent a quick text to Izzy as well. She would have wanted to text her. I got out of the car, and that's when I noticed Alex sitting on my porch.

I gathered Nessie in my arms, and started to walk up to him. She scooted closer, but she was sound-asleep in my arms. Alex raised an eyebrow when he saw his sister in my arms.

We didn't say anything until we went upstairs and I put Nessie in the guest bedroom. Alex was standing in the door while I pulled down her shoes, and put the blankets over her. I knew he was watching, but I couldn't stop myself and smoothed her hair out of her face.

I closed the door behind us and walked downstairs. Alex followed without a word, but I saw everything in his eyes.

When we were finally in the kitchen I needed to break the tension.

Beer?

He smirked.

Sure. - I went to the fridge and got two beers for us. I passed one to him and we both took a sip.

So when did you imprinted on her?

Yep, he knew it. I sighed.

When she was born.

Wow. Dude. - he sat down on the couch. - You've been waiting on her all this time?

Yes.

And then I told him everything. How I changed, how I thought I loved Bella, how she was born, when I imprinted on her, and the pain and guilt of the last years. Everything. And he listened.

I don't know why I felt like I need to share this with him, but it felt good to do so.

Girls night

Nessie's POV

I woke up with a headache. I usually need a lot of drinks to feel hungover, so I must have drank a lot. I groaned while I searched for my phone and checked the time.

It was 10 AM, and it took me a few minutes to realize that I am at Jake's guest bedroom again. I felt relieved that he took me here instead of a house of vampires, but the fact that my sister was alone with them made me anxious. I texted her quickly, but as soon as I hit send, I heard her laughing downstairs.

I quickly got up, and regretted instantly because of my throbbing headache. I slowly walked out of the room and down the stairs.

The smell of fresh coffee and bacon hit me instantly. Izzy, Seth, Leah and Alex were sitting at a dining table eating breakfast, while Jake was standing in the kitchen cooking eggs and bacon. The sight made me feel like I am home.

Good morning sleepy head. - Alex's voice was louder than it was necessary. I instantly put a hand to my head and groaned loudly. The prick had the nerve to smirk at me. - Long night?

Shut up. - I rolled my eyes and walked to the kitchen. Jake was already holding a cup of coffee to me.

You are my hero. - I smiled and took the coffee from him. It smelled great.

I try my best. - he winked at me and grabbed the last plate, full with bacon, eggs and toast and gave it to me.

You can cook? - I don't think I ever knew a guy who cooked for me.

I can manage. - his smile shoots goosebumps down my whole body.

I took the plate, and our hands touched. When he noticed, he slowly traced my thumb with his. The small touch warmed up my whole body, and I looked up into his eyes. We were very close, only the plate of food was between us. Was he this close a minute ago or my head playing tricks with me?

Thank you. - I whispered and side stepped him just to get some distance between us.

Of course. - his husky voice caused another set of goosebumps. I shook my head and walked back to the table where the others were sitting. It's not good that he has this kind of effect on me.

So how come you guys are all here? - I asked while I sat down next to Izzy.

Why, you want some alone time with Jake? - asked Alex. Leah snorted and Seth tried to suppress his smile, while Izzy looked confused. I am going to fight him today if he keeps pushing my buttons. He had a special talent to annoy me. I gave him a death stare, which only made him grin more than I turned towards Izzy.

I am sorry I left you alone last night, it wasn't right.

It's okay, Seth stayed until 10, we talked a lot, then I went to sleep. And Edward was with us the whole time. - She said Edward's name like she already trusts him as a parent figure. I still wasn't sure how I felt about that, but I just smiled and nodded at her. She seemed happy and relaxed. If she wasn't feeling weird or uncomfortable around the Cullens, I would not give her a reason to do so.

So when are you two getting married already? - I looked back at Alex with a grin. Two can play this game. Leah was drinking her coffee while I asked, and she started to choke a little. Alex glared at me, then patted her back until she could successfully swallow her drink.

We are just getting to know each other. - said Leah after a few minutes.

I can help with that, I have all kinds of dirt on him.

No you don't. - Alex shot me a glare.

Oh, yes I do. Leah should know about everything before she marries you. - I stated with a mock serious expression.

Did all your brain cells died last night from alcohol poisoning?

Don't take it personally, they love bickering. It's their love language. - intervened Izzy with a small smile.

Leah is a professional bickerer, so I don't think it will be a problem for her. - said Seth with a grin and Leah just rolled her eyes.

Jake joined us and we all had breakfast together. After drinking enough coffee and eating my fully packed plate, my headache disappeared. The conversation was easy, I could feel myself relaxing around Seth and Leah finally. They both looked at my siblings with such adoration in their eyes that I couldn't help liking them. Seth was really easy-going, he could talk about anything and he was very funny. Leah was funny in her own way as well, but her style was more reserved and cynical. She was also tense a little, and kept giving me these side-looks. I think she was still worried about our exchange yesterday, or she wasn't sure where to put me. I tried to be nice, but I knew it would take time to actually become friends.

After our breakfast, Alex told us that she will take Leah to work and probably stay with her for awhile, and Seth asked Izzy if she wants to take a walk by the beach. He looked at me after asking her, and Izzy also glanced my way. I smiled and nodded. I couldn't really deny them after being so nice and actually seeking my approval first.

They all left, and I stayed with Jake in the kitchen. I decided to busy myself with washing the dishes, and he wordlessly stood next to me and helped dry them. It was a comfortable chore, and it reminded me of the first night I spent at his house. I had the same feeling of calmness and belonging, which only comforted me for a few minutes. The anxiety of why I feel so good around this man kicked in right after those few minutes.

Sorry for last night. I was really overwhelmed. But thank you for taking care of me.

It's okay. - I couldn't help but look at him. He was smiling, but I could see the worry in his eyes. - How is your head? Do you need any medicine?

No, it's better now, thanks.

Does this… happen a lot? - he asked quietly. He didn't sound judgy at all, just worried.

Not really. It happens… but it never got out of hand though, I always needed to be my best self in order to work and take care of my siblings. But there are times when I go a little overboard, like last night.

It's okay, I get it. I went through a period when I partied and drank a lot too. Tried to numb the pain. Didn't really work though.

No, it never works in the long term. - I sighed and finished the last plate, and looked up at him. - Can I ask what pain you wanted to numb?

I lost my soul for a while. - his confession was so raw that I forgot to breathe for a minute.

I just stared into his eyes, and watched the sea of emotions change in them. The intensity which he could look at me, melted my insides. I felt so drawn to him, that I automatically took a step closer. He lifted his hand and gently caressed my arm, and I felt my heartbeat fasten. That's when I realized how close I got to him again, and I instantly stepped back while clearing my throat.

I need to go back to the house and talk with the Cullens. I was rude last night. - the sentence rushed out of me, and he just lifted an eyebrow. He must have noticed the effect he has on me. I need to control myself better.

Okay. - he rubbed his face, like he needed some wake up from a trance. Maybe I wasn't the only one affected by our closeness. - Let me give you a lift then.

Izzy and Seth were done with their walk when we finished, and Jake gave us a ride back to the Cullen's.

The house was full again with all the vampires. I found it fascinating that they could live on animal blood completely, and I had a long discussion with Carlisle about how he decided to live like this, how we helped the others to change diets, and how he became a doctor. I never met anyone like him before. He was the oldest from the whole group, and his need to help people resonated with me deeply.

Esme made us a huge Italian style lunch, with pasta and salad. Italian food was one of my favorites, and I really appreciated that she specifically shopped and cooked for us. It was easy to get along with her. Just like it was very easy to get along with Alice and Emmett as well. Jasper was more quiet, I noticed that he was more of an observant type, and I still wasn't sure if I insulted him or not the other day when I refused his help.

Rosalie seemed like the type of person who has a lot to say, but today she kept quiet and just observed me as well. I don't know what kind of relationship she had with me before I disappeared, but she acted kind and warm around me, and I could feel a sense of longing when she looked at me.

Edward seemed relaxed around me, which wasn't the same in my case. The whole mind-reading thing just freaked me out, even though I tried not to think about it. It was a total invasion of privacy. And I had enough in my mind that it really wasn't a nice tour for anyone.

Talking with him was interesting, I even found a few common ground with music and all, but everytime I remembered he could read my mind I just panicked, and he just tried to smile at me reassuringly.

The only person I could still not communicate at all was Bella. She seemed lost in her own world, but at the same time desperate to connect with me. It put a lot of pressure on me.

So after lunch, I excused myself for an hour to work a little. I wasn't planning to open up my laptop until a few days ago, but I needed the distraction and I knew I had a ton of things to do. Izzy came with me and read while I went through my emails.

Everyone who worked with me knew that I was taking two months off, the first time in my life, just to concentrate on myself. But I told everyone that if they need me for something, drop me an e-mail.

Well, let's just say they dropped a few. It took me a whole hour just to organize them according to their importance. That's when someone knocked on our door, and I told them to come in.

Are you busy? - Bella was standing in the door. She seemed shy and uncertain, so I tried to smile at her.

A little. But you can come in if you want. - I definitely won't get any work done this way, but I needed to work on this tension between us. Izzy was reading on the bed, I was sitting on the window seat with my laptop, and Bella decided to sit down on the chair next to the vanity mirror.

I was thinking maybe we could have a girls night with the others. We could talk, and maybe watch some movies. Esme is already baking cookies for you.

I can already smell them. - Izzy grinned. - I am going to help her. - she gave me a look, which pretty much meant that she leaves me with her on purpose, and then left the room.

That's a good idea. I haven't had a girls night in a long time.

Do you have a lot of friends? - her golden eyes were focused on me sharply, which still reminded me of a cat and mouse situation, but her tone was kind and a little shy.

Yes. I mean I have a lot of friendly acquaintances, I am very extroverted so I make friends easily. But I only have a few people who are close to me, and know me really well. And a few of them are my family, my brothers, Izzy and my cousins as well. Mostly guys. - I grinned. - I only have two close friends who are girls. But we sometimes have girls' nights together.

That sounds nice. You were very open and friendly as a child as well, everyone loved you instantly. I am glad that stayed with you. I am very different, I didn't have a lot of friends when I was young. I think I am more introverted, and I have always struggled with making connections. - well that makes sense, it seems like she is struggling to make a connection with me as well.

That's okay, we are all different. - I whispered, because I was still shocked that she revealed something about my childhood. The next question came out before I could think it through. - Did you wanted to keep me when you became pregnant?

For a short second she seemed shocked that I asked something like that, so I felt the need to explain myself.

I mean I only know about a few pregnancies with hybrids, and the woman always died. Did you go through with it while knowing that?

I wanted you from the first moment I learned about you. - she whispered softly and her gentle tone made my throat tight with emotion. - Everyone was afraid. We didn't know anyone who went through a pregnancy like that at the time, and they were all concerned. - she paused a little, like she wasn't sure how to continue.

It's okay. I know how it is, I was probably destroying your body and everyone wanted to get rid of me. - I tried to smile to take off the edge of my sentence, but it felt forced.

They were afraid that I would die, yes. And they didn't know how it would turn out, but I didn't care. I loved you from the first moment. And your dad warmed up to the idea when he started to hear your thoughts as well. You were our little miracle. - she carefully reached out and held one of my hands. I tried not to twitch from the cold, and just concentrated on her words. She loved me. I had a mother who always loved me.

You went against everyone's opinion just for me?

Of course. You were my baby. And I wasn't all alone, Rose helped me a lot. She protected you from the first moment as well.

Before I could answer, Rosalie appeared in the door. Her face looked like a beautiful sculpture, but this time when I looked into her golden eyes I could see the pain, the longing and the love she had for me.

Do you guys want to come down? The cookies and popcorn are ready.

We are coming. - Bella said and she squeezed my hand before letting it go. I gave Rosalie a smile when I walked past her, and she returned it.

Esme and Izzy made us chocolate chip cookies, popcorns, and hot chocolates. Alice rearranged the living room with tons of pillows, blankets and candles, so we could all sit down on the ground. The boys dutifully disappeared for the night, so it was just us girls. It felt comfy and safe. It felt like I can finally breathe a little.

Before starting a movie, we all decided to talk a little more while Alice did all our nails. She was really into fashion, and beauty products, which reminded me of one of my close friends at home. I was happy to obey when she chose the classic red color and started to do my nails.

So, tell us more about your work. You only mentioned a few things earlier, and I am sure it's a lot more complex than that. - her smile was friendly, and I tried to mirror it.

Well, I work in a hospital two days a week in the children's department. I work as a nurse. Besides that, I have a small record company. I am owning a flat which was turned into a studio, and that's where most of the musicians who work for me record their stuff. I write songs for most of them, and I manage them as well. Which means I go to concerts with them, we organize tours, I represent them in front of the media and stuff like that. But I have a small team who works background, and helps with the finances and the press, so I don't do everything alone. I mostly write and coach, or at least I try. The bigger problems are always mine to solve. - I grinned at that, because even though I like to complain about the issues and the stupid things done by my artists, I loved handling them.

Any songs we might know?

Half of the stuff on the Billboard hot 100 list. - chipped in Izzy. - She is really a big hit, and she always finds the best artists to play her songs. - she sounded so proud it filled my heart.

And what about your non-profit organization? You mentioned that as well earlier. - said Esme.

I started the music company to raise funds for my non-profit organization. It's very simply called "mi casa", which means "my house " in spanish. It's for children who were traumatized and orphaned. It started with girls from eastern countries who were used as sex-slaves or drug dealers. When I was part of the army we hunted down a lot of terrorists who held girls like that, and it gave me the idea to build them a home here in the USA. But the whole organization outgrow itself, and now we take in all kind of children around the world who were brutally traumatized by fucked-up adults. - I let out a dry laugh. I was brutally terrorized by fucked-up adults. It was a big motivation to save as many children from it as I can. - Anyway, it's a lot of work. I currently have three homes, and around a hundred children. Of course for this I need a staff who can help with the children, and trained psychologists who can help them heal. The goal is to help them physically and mentally as well. I work with a few children occasionally as well, I plan to be more involved after finishing my degree. I am majoring in children psychology and trauma processing.

You choose to study this so you could help them? - asked Esme with a kind motherly smile.

Yes. I have decided to study this the same time I started to open up the houses for the children. But it's more complicated than that, I went through so much trauma as a child, I also wanted to understand myself better, and healing myself gives me a better chance and understanding for helping others.

They all pondered on that for a few minutes, and I could see the sad expression returning to Bella's face. I have to stop talking about my past if it freaks her out this much.

How do you save them? The children. How do they get to the safe houses? - this time Rosalie was asking.

I still have a lot of connections in the army. They help a lot, the ops I was part of is a bit higher than a normal police system, so I know when a certain child needs a home pretty fast.

You do so much for others. It seems like a lot for one person.

I have a lot of help. Great people I work with. Friends in the army, friends in the government. I get help when I need it.

But aren't you overwhelmed? - the question came from Bella. She seemed worried.

Sometimes. But I can't help it, it's like a calling. I constantly need to work on myself, because for a long time I was so work-alcoholic, that I literally felt like my life is worthless if it's not helping someone else. But I realized that's not the case. I still put others first, that is my reason to live, but I learned to love myself, and I know when I need to take a break now. - I sighed. - Usually. - I add with a wink and Bella shakes her head with a sigh.

After Alice finished everyone's nails, we started to watch the movie. We all agreed to watch the classic girls night movie, How to lose a guy in 10 days.

A good Matthew McConaughey movie is always good for the soul. - I comment when he first appears on the screen.

You still have a thing for him? - my sister snores into her hot chocolate.

I will always have a thing for him.

But he doesn't even look like this anymore! He is old.

I gasp at her.

That is an insult. He will always look good. It's like a Johnny Depp thing. He will always be hot as well.

Nessie has a thing for old guys. - Izzy says with a mock-disgusted face, while looking at the three vampire women who look very entertained by our bickering.

I do not. - I swat her arm, and she just laughs at me. - I appreciate mature men. That has nothing to do with age, trust me. And you are the one who talks. - she blushes at my comment.

I don't know what you mean.

Want me to spell it out for you? His name is S-E-T-H. - her blush deepens and I roar with laughter.

We are just friends. - she mumbles.

And I pray you two stay that way for a long time. - I hug her from the side.

You never dated before? - asked Alice.

No. - Izzy is crimson red at this point. - I liked this boy once last year… but no… I never… - I took mercy on her stumbling and chip in.

I love how innocent you are, I wish you could stay like that longer. - she just rolls her eyes at me.

It's okay, you don't have to hurry. Or date a lot of men to find your true love. Edward was my first and only love, and that turned out pretty well. - says Bella to comfort her.

You never dated anyone else? - the shock is written all over my face, because she chuckles before answering.

No. I was meant to be with him. - it sounds so cheesy that I automatically snort.

Sorry. That sounds… sweet and all. But it doesn't always work like that. Trust me, I had my fair share of mens, they don't just turn out to be the "love of your life". A relationship takes time, commitment and a lot of hard work. And sometimes you put all that in, and it still doesn't work out. It's not some magical 'I was meant to be with him' moment. - my tone must be a bit harsh, because Alice stops the movie and they all turn towards me.

I know what a relationship needs to work. It doesn't mean you can't find that for the first time. Your sister did. - she adds, and I bite back my reply.

How is it that my mother and my sister, who have no blood connection at all, are so alike? Izzy was always like this. Sweet, innocent, untouched by all the shit in this world. She could be like this, because I did my best to protect her from it. I sometimes think I shielded her too much… and someday something will happen, and she will not know how to handle it, because she lives in a fairy tale. In this sense, I am glad she met Seth. At least he will always love her purely.

And now I met with this grown-up woman, my mother, who also thinks like this. Love at first sight, meant to be, live forever and all the other bullshits that I can't take seriously anymore. It makes me angry, but then I remember that she was never broken by a man either. Women who only know good man, tend to think like that. It's natural, and it's not their fault that some of us went through shitty relationships.

I told them to continue with the movie, and go out to the kitchen for a glass of water. I take a sip, and look out the window. For a minute it seems like I see a golden-brown wolf fur at the start of the forest. Is it… Jake? Why would he be here?

Before I have a chance to look closer, Rosalie comes into the kitchen.

Are you okay? - she asks. I look back to the forest, but now I only see darkness and the outline of some trees. Maybe I am imagining things.

Yeah. Just… talking about boys is not always a nice topic for me. And I try not to crush my sister's world with too much information. - I know my smile is forced, but I'll give it a try anyway.

I get that. There are some shitty men out there. - her smile is cynical. - Trust me, I met a few too.

And where are they now?

Dead. - she answers in a heartbeat and I laugh. Killing a man is not so foreign to me, even if I hate it. There are situations when you don't really have a choice.

Do you want to share? - I ask with a careful smile.

Yes. - she sits down at the kitchen table, and I join her.

And then she shared her story with me. Every bit of it, about her human life, about her fiance, the men who raped her. She told me how she murdered them all, and then went on how it was to become a vampire, how much she hates that she could never have a baby. My heart went out for her. She was beautiful inside and out, with scars and a dark past, but even though she went through all that, her heart remained good and I loved meeting people like that. They were a gift to their environment, even if they didn't know about it.

She talked about how much she loved Emmett, and how he changed her views about love and marriage, and I was truly happy that they found each other. Her story made me open up as well, and I talked about Leo, and every other guy I tried to date.

It was easy to talk to her, and later that night I went to bed with a satisfied feeling. I had a mother and aunts, and a grandmother. They all looked way too young, and the whole situation was very weird, but for the first time since I arrived I felt like I could have a relationship with them.

Babysitting

Nessie's POV

I was deep in the forest. My lungs were burning from my fast tempo, and my sweatshirt was drenched from the rain. I still didn't turn back. I had tougher training in the army, I won't back down from running because of the stupid rain.

In the morning it seemed like a good idea to go for a run. I hadn't run in awhile, and it was always a good method for me to clear my head. But after running for 10 minutes, it started to drizzle. First I was okay with it, I knew this part of the country is famous for the rain, but then it became heavier. Now it was pouring so bad I could barely see a thing.

Of course I left my phone at the Cullens, because I didn't want any distraction. Now I must have come at least 5 miles already, and even though I ran fast, the cold still catched up with me, and I was already shivering.

I stopped at the end of a trail, and let out a frustrated groan. Everything was muddy and slippery, and I had more water in my lungs than air, but I didn't care. I am going to keep running. I wasn't sure what I wanted to prove here, that I am tougher than rain? Not likely.

Or I was just tense because of my dream last night?

The memories of my pregnancy and my accident came alive in my dreams last night.

I started to run faster. It was definitely that.

After a while the forest started to disappear, and I found myself behind a wooden cottage. Is it possible that I ran so far? And how did I end up here of all places?

Jake's POV

Today was my day off, and of course Rachel roped me in to babysitting my two nephews. She gave me a big speech about never having time for herself, and before I could think it through I agreed to it. She will drop them off after lunch, and until then I am just trying to enjoy a cup of coffee in silence. There won't be any when the two little troublemakers arrive.

It was a rainy morning, more stormy to be correct. I could barely see the trees from the heavy downpour. Hopefully it will stop in a few hours, because I really don't want to be stuck in the house with two four year olds all day.

I checked my phone the third time today. Still no response.

I tried to leave Nessie alone yesterday, since she was spending time with her family. Although I couldn't entirely stop myself, I was spending a bigger part of the night in the woods as a wolf. Just being near her calmed me instantly. And this morning I decided I gave them enough time, and texted her. But she still hasn't responded. Maybe she is still sleeping. Maybe I could send her another text.

I am being pathetic, but I can't stop thinking about her.

Just when I decided to text her again, there was a loud knock on my door. Is it Rachel already? But I haven't heard her car stop. And it's way too early.

I walked up and when I opened the door, Nessie was standing there.

She was wearing running shoes, black leggins and a sweatshirt. She was soaked to the bones, and every item of clothing clinged to her body. It took me a moment to take her in. She was gorgeous.

And judging from her trembling body, she was freezing.

I snapped out of ogling her and quickly pulled her inside.

What are you doing here? - I asked while closing the door behind us.

I am so sorry for bothering you. I was running in the woods, and the rain caught me, and I accidently found myself in your backyard. I hoped you would be home. - she gave me a sweet smile, and I almost melted. Maybe she came here accidentally, or maybe she came here subconsciously. Either way, I am very happy about it.

It's okay. You look cold though, let me give you a towel. - I rushed into the bathroom and got her two fluffy towels.

Thanks. - she started to dry her hair with one of them, and then she realized how wet her shirt is, so she quickly pulled it off.

She was wearing a sports bra which was covering everything, but her smooth stomach and the shape of her breasts made me speechless. I couldn't stop looking at her. She stopped drying her hair, and our eyes met. Her wet hair falled around her shoulder, and her skin was glittering with water droplets. My eyes traveled her whole body. The air in the room instantly changed, and I could feel the electricity between us. Her breath became more shallow, and her chocolate brown eyes turned into a darker color with desire. I wasn't young enough not to notice when a woman wanted me, and it was a whole kind of different rush to know that she is not just any woman. She is my imprint. And from the look she gave me, she was well aware that I wanted her too.

It was just like in the kitchen yesterday. We were drawn to each other.

The question was, what are we going to do about it?

Could you maybe get me a hoodie? I am still a bit cold. - her tone was polite, but I understood the hint.

Even though she wanted this, she wasn't ready for it. It was okay, I could wait for her as long as she wanted me too. I nodded with a smile, and went back to my bedroom. I got her a hoodie and some pants as well. It will be comically big on her small body, but it's better than getting a cold from wet clothes. She took it with a grateful smile, and left for the bathroom to change. I busied myself by making some hot tea for her.

She came out from the bathroom and even though the hoodie and the pants were way too big for her, I couldn't stop my smile. She was wearing my clothes. The wolf in me roared with joy, and only one word came to my mind. Mine.

Nessie took the hot tea with a grateful smile.

Do you need to go to work soon?

No, it's my free day. Or, it was until my sister roped me into babysitting. She is going to drop off my twin nephews in an hour.

That is sweet. - her smile was kind, but her eyes had a faraway look in them. She works with kids, she loves them. Maybe she is still overwhelmed by the Cullens, and it would make her happy to be around children. Of course spending extra time with her has nothing to do with my next question.

Do you want to babysit them together? I could use the help.

Her eyes instantly lit up, and I knew I made the right call by inviting her.

Are you sure? Your sister would be okay with that?

Yeah, sure. - she wanted to meet Nessie so much she's been terrorizing me for days now.

I would love that. - I want to kiss her happy smile, but I restrain myself. - Can I use your phone? I left mine at the Cullen's.

Of course. - So that's why she didn't reply to my text.

The thought gives me relief. I gave my phone to her, and she called Bella to let her know what happened, then she asked for Izzy. They talk for a few minutes, she asks at least three times if she is okay with her staying, and after a long pause she agrees to something as well. From the look on her face, it has something to do with Seth. After she ends the call, I ask the question even though I know the answer.

She is meeting with Seth today?

Yes. - she sighs and I laugh at her. - I know this probably sounds stupid, but I am afraid they are going too fast. She is so young, and she is just… - she doesn't finish her sentence, instead she just shakes her head and takes a sip of her tea.

She is just a baby? - I finish it for her with a kind smile. I love that she is so protective over her sister, it's really sweet.

We always had a weird dynamic… I had to balance between being her sister and her mother all the time. We are more like Lorelai and Rory from Gilmore Girls. Do you know the show?

A little. - I admit with a sigh. - But only because of my sisters. - I feel the need to add this part. She rolls her eyes at me.

Oh, it would be very un-manly to watch it because you actually like it. - she comments drily.

Yes, it would be. - I agree with her, even though I know she was being sarcastic. - And why do you think you are like them? Lorelai is very immature, and she makes a lot of bad decisions. And Rory is so unstable. She basically gets a new personality when she goes to college.

First of all, that is not entirely true. Second, you have an awful lot of opinion on a show you only know a little about because of your sisters. - she grins and I feel my turning to red. - I didn't mean that we have the personalities of the characters. It's just, you know Lorelai became a mother so young, she barely had a chance to grow up or experience the world on her own, she was forced to grow up and take care of Rory. Which she did, and I admire that, but I think it's natural that stayed a little immature because of it. I was so young when Izzy was born. And even though I loved her from the first moment, it was so terrifying. - she took a sip of her tea. - And Lorelai wanted to give Rory a better life, which I think put a little pressure on her, that's why she was so sheltered and perfectionist. I see that in Izzy sometimes. Also the age gap thing, it was small and usually they acted more like sisters to each other than a normal mother and daughter. Our age gap with Izzy is also very small, and in our case I suppose to be her sister, but I did raise her which kind of puts me into the mother category. And I love every minute of it. But it can be weird sometimes, especially now that she is growing up. - she kept looking out the window the whole time she spoke, and now she has a far-aways look in her eyes that makes her look so much older than her actual age.

I get that. You want to see her fly but you are also terrified of letting her go.

Exactly. - she smiles at me, and for a minute I am lost in her beautiful eyes. It's so much like Bella's were when she was a human, but at the same time, it's different. It has so much emotion, and knowledge and experience, and something unique that can only be described as Nessie.

So. You are a Gilmore girls fan. - she breaks the silence and grins at me.

No, I did not say that.

I can read between the lines.

It's an annoying show. - I try to protect my remaining dignity.

Sure, sure. So Team Dean or Logan?

Team Jess. How can you leave him out? The other two are lame. - I comment without thinking, and she breaks out into a fit of laughter. Her laugh is just as musical as her voice, and I smile, because I know I would watch every single romantic comedy or TV show if I can make her laugh like that again.

The rest of our morning goes like this. We laugh, we talk, we drink more coffee and tea. She wanted to bake chocolate chip cookies for the boys, and I was more than happy to help. Luckily I have all the ingredients, and we bake them together. She makes my house feel like home. It already smells like cookies and her sweet flowery scent. She is more relaxed today, she smiles a lot and I can't stop grinning every time I make her laugh.

I could imagine our life so easily. Us in the kitchen cooking breakfast and late night dinners, watching movies on the couch while I hug her close to me, dancing in the living room. And when my sister arrives and she embraces her and the boys so naturally like they are already her family, my heart is so full I feel like it's going to burst.

Nessie's POV

Jake has the sweetest nephews ever. I probably say this about a lot of kids, but these two are going to be real heart-breakers in a few years. They are five years old, they have the beautiful native brown skin like Jake and his sister, their hair is black and messy, their eyes are just like Jake's, a mix between brown and black and they have the biggest toothless grin ever. They are also identical twins, and meeting them the first, the only difference I can spot between them is that the one named Eli has more missing teeth than his brother Ethan.

Eli, my little man. - Jake lifts him up. - You had more teeth a week ago.

Ethan kicked them out. - answers Eli with a shrug.

Did he? - Jake lifts an eyebrow to Ethan, who seems unbothered.

Yes, I did uncle Jake. - he answers proudly.

Rachel, their mother is still standing in the door and she sighs at her son's reply.

It is so frustrating. One moment they are watching a cartoon quietly, the next they are fighting over something and it almost always ends in stitches or a missing tooth. And after every accident they just laugh and become friends again.

They are boys. - answers Jake with a shrug, and it's like Ethan wants to prove his point, because he attacks his leg with his little fists and demands to be lifted up like his brother. Jake just laughs at him and lifts him with his other arm. He makes faces at them, and soon both of the boys are roaring with laughter. The image of him holding both boys in his strong arms is swoon worthy. I probably stare too long because when I turn my head to Rachel again, she has a knowing look in her eyes.

I am so happy you came back, Nessie. - the honesty in her words shocks me for a minute, but I recover fast and I smile at her.

Who is Nessie? - asks Ethan loudly. I already introduced myself, but it seems like Ethan missed it.

She is, dumbass. - Eli points at me. And Rachel gasps at his son.

Eli, language. We don't use that word. - she gives him a stern look, and the little boy looks ashamed.

Sorry, mama.

They learn all the bad words from their uncle. - Rachel rolls her eyes.

Hey, that's not true. - Jake tries to look offended, but the glint in his eyes gives him away.

Everytime they spend a day with you, they came home with a new vocabulary.

Oh really? - Jake smirks and looks at Eli. - Eli, where did you learn that word?

From daddy, he said it to Uncle Jake.

Jake has a triumphant grin on his face, and Rachel just sighs again.

My other troublemaker. - she says the word with so much love, that it's hard to believe that she means it.

Nessie is your girlfriend Uncle Jake? - Ethan is a very curious kid. For some reason my heart gives a little thug at the word girlfriend. Jake seems speechless for a minute, and Rachel laughs at him.

No, I am his friend. - I smile at Ethan. I am used to children asking questions so freely, and the best way to handle them without creating awkward situations is to distract them. - I will play with you today, and I also made chocolate chip cookies for you. If you go to the living room, you can find them on the table.

They both shriek from excitement and Jake puts them down so they can make a run for the living room.

Oh, boy. They are a lot more trouble with a sugar rush, so that is my cue to leave. Have fun, don't kill each other, and I will be back for the little monsters after dinner. - Rachel waves us goodbye and rushes out the door.

Are you ready? - Jake asks with a mock-stern expression, like we are preparing for battle. From the shrieking sounds that coming from the living room, we maybe do.

Let's do this.

The boys are truly handful, but it's not as bad as Rachel made it sound. Although I know how it, they can wear you down sooner if you constantly live with them. My little brother could be so hard to handle sometimes, and everytime my aunt took him for a day, she said it's not so bad.

After they ate all the cookies, which we realized later wasn't the smartest idea on our part, we shouldn't have left out all, we needed to wear them out. Luckily, the rain stopped, so we went out to play some football in Jake's garden. The boys were skeptical about my skills, saying girls are not cool enough to play football, even Jake, so I felt the need to prove myself. I told them it's them against me, and after I won twice, both of the twins wanted to be on my team.

See? Girls are cool. - I told them when they tackled me to the ground after my second win.

You are cool! - yelled Ethan in my ear.

We already played like three games, we were all dirty to our neck because of the mud, but the boys still had energy in them.

Yeah, other girls are lame. - commented Eli, and it made me smile that they accepted me into their little "cool club".

I am sure your momma is cool too. - I added while Jake walked up to us. He took his shirt off an hour ago because it was so muddy, I did the same with his hoodie, so I was only wearing my sports bra. He looked down at me with the sweetest smile. I got a lot of those today.

Sometimes. - shrugged Eli.

Aunt Leah is cool too. - added Ethan and he seemed so deep in thought, I had to laugh. He must have listed all the girls in his head, and checked if they are cool enough.

Alright, you proved your point, girls are cool. - Jake pulled the boys off me, then offered me his hand. I took it, and he pulled me up. My chest was pressed against his bare body, and I had to bend my neck so I could look into his eyes. His sweet smile disappeared, and that burning look was there again. The fact that we were barely wearing any clothes just hit me now, that I could feel his hot skin on mine.

One more game! - Ethan's battle cry made us jump from each other and redirect our focus on the boys.

After not one, but three more rounds of football, we successfully carried the dirty laughing boys into his bathroom. They were black from all the mud that was stuck into their skin and hair. They put up a little fight when we told them they needed a shower, but Jake bribed them with pizza and cartoons so they agreed eventually. First they were grumpy, but after creating a battlefield in the shower as well, where they tried to cover us up in soap and foam while also attacking each other with the shampoo bottles, their mood turned into roaring laughter again.

After successfully cleaning them off, we took turns in the shower, Jake ordered pizzas and we made ourselves comfortable on the big couch. Jake and I sat on the sides, and the boys were tucked in between us. When Jake asked what they wanted to watch, they answered Cars at the same time. I rolled my eyes, and Jake just whispered "they are boys" at me with a grin. Like that's a perfect explanation why they are always interested in cars and fighting.

We were at the middle of the movie, when Eli slept in, and leaned against my belly in his sleep. I swiped his hair and pulled the blanket around him more. He seemed so happy, healthy and content.

Maybe my son would have been like this…

My smile dropped from the thought, and from the memories that followed after that.

The black rainy roads, that car that hit me, the blood, the sirens, the dreadful fear that I couldn't feel his heartbeat anymore, the hospital… waking up and feeling that my belly is smaller and emptier. Alex sitting on the end of my bed with a sad expression.

Where is my son? - the desperation in my voice. I knew what the answer was, but I really hoped he would say something different. I really hoped there was a chance.

He… he didn't survive the accident. - his voice was raspy, he was crying. I feel the tears streaming down my face.

No, no, no, no… you are lying. He is okay. He has to be okay. - I try to get up, but I am too weak and Alex is next to me in an instant.

I am so sorry, sis. - he holds me while I scream and sob.

Jake's hands pull me back to the present. He touches my shoulder, and he has a concerned look in his eyes. I realize my hand is still stroking Eli's hair, and my face is wet from tears.

What's wrong? - he whispers, because Ethan fell asleep as well. I shook my head, because I can't answer, then gently put Eli back against his brother.

I need some air. - I whisper, then I don't even look at Jake, I just stand up and go out to the porch.

I took a few deep cold breaths, the sky is getting dark now, Rachel will be back soon for the boys. The door opens behind me and I feel a fluffy blanket being wrapped around me from behind. It feels warm and safe.

It's getting cold. - Jake murmurs and his voice makes me feel warmer too. - Do you want to talk about it? - he doesn't move, he stays behind me. Close for me to feel his warmth, but not close enough to touch. It's better like this, I don't want him to see me cry again.

It's… I sometimes get flash-back to the accident. The boys just made me think about what I could have had, my baby boy… - my voice cracks, and a sob found its way through my lips. Jake wraps his arms around me instantly and turns me around, so my face is flushed against his chest. I cry, and he is stroking my hair. Just like the first night I spent at his house. It is so easy to be vulnerable around him. I really shouldn't let him see me like this, but he happens to be there at all my recent meltdowns.

I am so sorry. - he says after a while. - Maybe it wasn't a good idea to ask for your help today. I should have known it would stir up emotions. I am sorry.

I pulled away a little so I could look into his eyes.

No, I'm glad you did. It's been months now, and I love children. I have a godson at home as well, I won't stop interacting with children because I lost mine. It will get hard sometimes, but I am working through it.

I think you are the strongest person I have ever met. - he whispers and strokes my cheek, and once again I feel like I am lost in his gaze.

Time to say goodbye

Nessie's POV

It was dark outside, I was sitting on his lap in his truck, and he was quickly undressing me. His hands were everywhere. He slowly kissed my neck, my jaw, my mouth. It was hot and heavy, and I couldn't get enough of it. The only thought that occupied my mind was need. I need this man so badly. I pulled his shirt off, and I let out a small moan when I felt his strong, chiseled muscles under my hands. He was beautiful.

He was playing with the hem of my dress, and in the next moment he quickly pulled it up and through my head. I wasn't wearing a bra, and he sighed when he finally touched my skin.

Jake… - I moaned.

And I woke up with a jolt. My breathing was still heavy. I looked around the half lighted room, and tried to calm myself. I was at the Cullen's house, and my sister was sleeping sound asleep next to me. I checked my phone, it was six in the morning. The light was still very dim, and it was raining again. I let out a sigh, and got up quietly. I wouldn't be able to sleep back. Luckily, my nightmares stopped, but I didn't anticipate having sex dreams instead of them. And definitely not with Jacob Black.

He is off-limits. He needs to stay a friend. For so many reasons… I can't let myself to fall for a wolf again, I would just end up in pain. And it's probably just hormones anyway… It's been awhile since I had sex. Yes, that must be it.

I keep telling myself these thoughts while I go downstairs. The living room is empty, and when I go into the kitchen Edward is already standing there, holding a steaming mug out for me. He doesn't say a word, and I am very grateful for it. I need to gather my thoughts and feelings, and it's already weird enough that he can read my mind. I don't need him to ask questions as well. I take the mug with a smile and head back to the living room. I choose a big window seat, and get comfortable with my coffee.

After babysitting the twins with Jake, I have spent the last days with the Cullens. I knew that the week was soon over, and I couldn't stay longer than the weekend. I had so much work to do, and I already needed to split my time between L.A, Hermosillo and Valle del Lobo, which was not an easy task. I felt a little bad that I prefer Jake's company, so I tried to spend as much time with them as I could, and ignore my new feelings towards Jake.

No, no feelings for Jake. I am going to have to remind myself a lot of this.

It was watching the heavy rain, while thinking about the vampires in this house, and the things I have to do in the next few weeks. Carlisle had to head back to Washington yesterday, where they were currently living because of his job, and Esme went with him. They gave me their contact details, made me promise that I will call them sometimes and said their goodbyes with a hug. It was nice, and I didn't feel forced or uncomfortable at all.

Not like I still feel around my own mother. It felt like we had some kind of break through during our girls night, but our world-view is so different, and she is so visibly disturbed and sad that I am a grown up woman, that it makes me feel uncomfortable and anxious. Like I had to walk on eggshells around her. I catch Edward watching me with a kind smile from the kitchen door. I guess there is something good about being able to read other people's minds. You understand what they are going through, and you know what they want. Which for me, is some quiet time to gather my thoughts.

That is true. - his gentle voice still surprises me, and I almost spill the hot coffee on my chest.

Okay, this answering my thoughts thing is still creepy, stop doing it.

I am sorry. - he does not sound sorry at all. He walks up to me and sits in front of me.

It's fascinating, you know. The way you think, the way you analyze things. - he says with a kind smile. It took me a week, but I learned to accept that he does have a kind smile, and I have nothing to fear when I am around here. My nightmares disappeared too. This thought makes him smile more, and I just shake my head.

Yeah well, I am a psychologist and an artist. I am supposed to analyze things.

Maybe. - he looks out the window. - But it also reminds me of myself.

This shuts me up for a minute. I never really considered if I am anything like my parents. I somehow knew that my looks must resemble my mother, because I never looked anything like Klan. And in everything I did, I tried to be the opposite of him. I was terrified that one day I would be like him. Now I know who my actual father is, and there is a chance that we share a few personality traits. The same word comes to mind that he used… It's fascinating. We share a smile, which doesn't take long because my phone chimes. I let out a sigh.

You look overwhelmed.

Oh, that's a nice way to put it. You see into my head, I am the definition of overwhelmed. - I let out a dry chuckle. He just shakes his head.

You know you don't have to do everything at the same time.

Oh, I know. And I heard it from several people before. I try to tell it to myself as well. You can't work so much Nessie. You shouldn't have that many jobs. You can't save everyone. - I imitate the voices of my friends and family who told me this before, then I shake my head with a sad smile.

But I just… can't. Everytime I sit down and balance my life and options, the math just doesn't come together. My main goal is to help as many children as I can. It's a very difficult goal, and difficult goals require difficult sacrifices. I have to keep studying to become a child psychologist, so university is obviously a priority. With my kind intentions alone I obviously wouldn't be able to do much until a long time, and in order to run my safety houses I need a lot of money. Which means throwing fundraising events, networking and running my record studio in L.A. Because there is nothing that brings in more money than entertainment. And even though I started that for the money, I am an extroverted person, so I obviously love every single musician like my own family since I am working closely with them, and I just have to be involved in everything they do, which of course is a lot of extra work as well. I think writing songs is the only thing that just burst out of me naturally. - he smiles at that.

And then there is the hospital in my hometown… where I only work two days a week, and I just can't leave it, because I know the kids there need help and they are so understuffed, they need me. - I took a deep breath and looked out the window. His golden eyes held so many feelings in them that I had to look away. - I had a pretty bad mental breakdown before I left. After everything that happened with my ex, and losing my baby… I just pushed it away. Even though I am perfectly trained and aware that's not how grief works, I just buried myself with work. It didn't end well… and I realized I need to learn to prioritize my mental health. But it's not so easy… I survive because I put others first. That gives me fuel to go on. And I tried really hard in the past two months, to be alone with my thoughts, to embrace my feelings, to not run away. I wrote a lot, I think I healed a lot too, but I think this is still not a period in my life when I can give up something. I have to do it all. And I am going to be okay.

You are surprisingly wise for your age. - he says after a long time, and I burst out laughing.

Well, thank you.

I want you to know that if you need help with anything, we are always here. I don't want you to overwork yourself.

The worry in his eyes makes me smile, and I just nod at him, because I fear my voice would betray me. My phone chimes again, and I check my messages this time.

I am sorry but we need help, and I am out of options. Please call. - Katie

Katie is one of my assistant and a really good friend, and under her message I see a tons of other messages and e-mail from different co-workers and bands that I work with. They all want something, which is not surprising, and neither of them seems urgent enough to reply, but Katie knows me, she knows why I left, and she knows that I specifically asked her to only reach out if there is an emergency.

I give an apologetic look to Edward and hit the call button on her name. She answers after one ring.

God, Nessie. I am so so sorry, I feel like shit. I know you need this time for yourself, but I really didn't know what to do… those stupid animals really ruined everything this time and I… - I stop her panicked voice mid sentence.

Katie, it's okay. Take a deep breath. - I wait until she does. - And now tell me everything from the beginning.

And she does. One of the pop boy bands I work with got into trouble again. The band consists of four twenty-something boys, emphasizing on the boys, because they constantly need help and guidance all the time, and whenever they make a decision on their own, it usually ends in disaster. They like to party hard, which results in a lot of trouble. Fame and money really changes some people, and when these boys drink they just don't have a limit in what they do or say. Apparently, last week they rented out a whole restaurant for themselves and to their friends, and they ruined the whole building. Broke everything, vandalized the walls, and even managed to set a fire in the kitchen. The owner is obviously freaking out, promised to raise charges and to get them into jail. It's a stretch, they won't go to jail for this, but we definitely need to pay a big fine and manage the press as well. This type of shit is not good for their image, and they are all well aware of that.

After promising to Katie that I will handle this, and go back to L.A as soon as I can, I end the call and look back at Edward, who is watching me with a sad expression.

I am sorry, but I need to go back to Los Angeles as soon as possible. - I say out loud what we both already know.

I understand. - he nods sadly. - I am going to go and call the others, so they can see you before you leave.

I nod and go into the kitchen to make some breakfast for myself and Izzy. Alex has been staying at Leah since they met basically, and I still need some alone time with him to talk that through. It happened so fast, and I guess it's natural for them to constantly be around each other because of the double imprint thing.

I am making pancakes, and answering texts and emails in little breaks. I check how much time it would take me to drive back, since I can't just leave my car here, and I create do to lists to handle when I am back in the city. I always do this, multitasking helps me work faster and better, and when I am in a flow, I feel like there is no limit, I can solve everything. Which of course is not true, but it's still a good feeling.

Izzy comes down around eight, when I am done with all the cooking. And that when it hits me, that this might be hard for her. Because as much as I started to trust Seth, I definitely won't let my teenage sister stay here on her own.

Hi, sis. I made pancakes. - I put a big serving in front of her, and she smiles at me gratefully. - Listen, it turns out I have to go back to the city earlier, as in today, because there are some issues I need to solve. I am sorry, I just talked with Katie an hour ago, so it's new for me as well.

She stops eating, and looks at me with her big blue eyes. She is surprised at first, but then she seems so sad that I am speechless for a minute. And that is the minute when Seth arrives through the open door, with Jake behind him.

Good morning. I smell pancakes. Izzy said we could have breakfast together here, and then go down to the beach. I hope that's cool with you. - Seth smiles at me, and I try to force myself to smile back at him. He is a very nice guy, and I really don't want to hurt him. At the sight of Jake, last night's dream came rushing back to me, and suddenly this kitchen feels very hot.

Are you okay? - he asks with a worried look, because at this point I am still speechless, and Izzy is looking at her plate of pancakes with the saddest puppy expression.

Izzy? What's wrong? - Seth is already next to her, one hand on her back protectively and he tries to catch her eyes. I clear my throat, and look away from Jake.

We have to leave today. I have a work emergency, and I need to be in L.A tomorrow, and since I am with a car, I have to leave today. It takes a full day to drive up there.

My sentence is followed with absolute silence. Seth has the same sad puppy face as Izzy now, and it makes me feel so bad I can't look away from them. Even though I can feel Jake's staring at me. My brain goes into problem-solving mode.

Okay, listen. It's not the end of the world. We will visit. You guys can visit anytime. If you have time Seth, you can even come with us. I don't mind. Or if Alex is staying longer Izzy, I am willing to negotiate, and you can stay with him. But you need to stay with one of us, you know that.

She nods and looks up at me. There is some color in her face now, which allows me to exhale. At least she doesn't look at me like I ruined her life now. Teenagers can be absolutely dramatic sometimes. I smile at her and quickly pull my phone out to talk with Alex.

Hey, what's up? - he asks and I try to smile reassuringly to my sister before I walk out to the terrace.

Hey, listen I need to leave today.

Is something wrong?

No, I mean… yes, work stuff. - I quickly explain the situation to him.

Wow, sis. They pulled something like that a few months ago too, right?

Right. And now I am not going to cover for them. They are going to face the consequences. And there is a limit to what I can do on the phone, so I really need to get going today. And that's why I am calling. Izzy seems very sad that she has to leave with me.

Of course she is. - he understands it way too quickly, and it makes me feel uncomfortable. Alex and I were almost always on the same page. But I guess imprinting changed his views a little. Or maybe it bothers me that he understands her feelings better.

But she knows she can't just live here. She has to finish high school at home.

I know, I know. - he sighs. - They will manage the long-distance thing somehow. And Seth can visit anytime. I need to go back soon as well, I already got like five calls in the past two days about the restaurant.

And what about Leah?

She is so perfect. - I can hear the smile in his voice, and it makes me so happy. - And she is very much interested in coming with me, possibly living there too in the future. I know it's super fast… we just started dating, but she said nothing holds her here. And the way I feel about her, it's just so hard to explain.

You love her. - I smile.

Yes, but it's more than that. I never knew I could love like this… I mean I knew the bond between grandpa and grandma, I saw people imprinting before, but experiencing the whole thing is totally different.

I am really happy for you, brother.

Thanks. - he clears his throat. - So let me just talk with her, if she is okay to come and visit with me tomorrow and then Izzy and Seth can come with us on a plane.

I go back to the kitchen, where all three of them are sitting down with a plate of pancakes. I grab one for myself to sit down beside Jake. Izzy and Seth are talking with each other, and they do not even notice that I came back. I smile at Jake, and he tries to smile back, but I can sense that it's fake. This man usually smiles with his whole face. It's really beautiful. This looks like he is in pain, and his mouth doesn't want to move upwards.

Are you okay? - I touch his hand on an instinct, and suddenly I feel warm and my heart is racing. It's just his hand, why do I feel like this? Oh, and his deep dark eyes, which are always focused on me. He takes my hand, it seems like an instinct for him as well, and he slowly caresses my knuckles with his thumb. My heart beats faster.

Yeah, of course. - he gives me a half smile, and suddenly I want to make him smile at me fully. That must be the reason why I say the next sentence.

You can come with me too, you know.

Do you want me too? - and there it is. That big, charming smile that makes my heart skip. But the question is way too flirty, and I need to keep this relationship on safe grounds.

Well, a good relationship between different packs is very important. Alex told me to invite you, so you can meet the other pack members as well.

I am such a liar. Alex did not say such a thing, but I can't let him think I want him to come. He nods, and his smile falters a little which makes me feel like an asshole.

You are probably right. It would be good to meet with another pack, so if it's okay for you I would like to go with you. - I try to ignore the happy feeling that I get from the fact that he will come with me and I just nod with a small smile.

We eat our breakfast, while making small talk and after finishing up, I got a text from Alex, saying that Leah is okay to go with him, and I should tell Izzy and Seth that they are buying plane tickets for tomorrow.

You okay if I don't tag alone on the road trip with you? - Izzy asks me.

Of course. It will be a long drive, it's better for you to go with a plane. I have to take my car back. - I turn to Jake as I say. - Jake, you can go with them on a plane too, it would be easier and faster.

And let you drive alone for a whole day? - he raises an eyebrow at me which says "hell no".

I smile at him gratefully, because it would have been really boring to go alone. I had my alone time, I would prefer some company now.

After cleaning up, Seth and Izzy say their goodbyes, which is short, because we will meet in a day anyway, and they head out to the beach. Jake leaves to pack and to talk with the guys at work, after agreeing that he will be back in two hours so we could get going.

I try to answer as many emails as I can, handle a few calls, and I send out a few threats to the guys on the band who caused all this trouble for me. They are not even picking up their phones, like avoiding the whole thing will work out for them.

I am still fussing about them under my nose, while packing my remaining stuff from my room into my duffel bags, when I notice Bella at the bedroom door. She is leaning against it, her arms are crossed, and she looks almost human for a minute. The fact that her eyes are gold, and she doesn't blink ruins the human effect of course.

Your father told me you plan to leave today. - I am not sure if I imagined it or not, but her voice seems colder than yesterday. I skip the fact that she is calling him my father, even though technically he is, I am still more comfortable thinking and speaking of him as Edward.

Yes, it's a work thing.

You can't handle it from here?

Unfortunately, not.

Your father mentioned what happened with that band… maybe we could help? These things are usually solved with money. - she smiles at me, but her sentence throws me off.

I don't want to solve it with money. It needs attention, and the guys need some proper retribution as well. I can't let them think that every shit they do will disappear because of money. - she sighs, like I am the annoying one here.

Alright. But you have other coworkers, right? I am sure there is someone who can handle this.

I was stunned for a minute, and took a deep breath before I answered her.

It's my business. The people are working for me. It's not always easy, and I am the one who has to handle the difficult stuff. There is no one who can solve it instead of me.

I am sure that's not true. - she smiles at me, like I am an ignorant child. And that's when it hits me. The problem with our relationship. She does see me like a child.

Are you kidding me right now? - I try to control my temper, but it's not easy. I hate when people underestimate me, or treat me less, I worked way too hard to accept it from anyone. - Do you have any idea what it takes to run a business like that? Or how does the music industry work? Do you have any idea how much work I put into this? And how hard is it to keep it up? I work my ass off, and I build these work relationships constantly, and I have a system. I know what I am doing and I know what needs to be done in these kinds of situations, because guess what, I have faced them before. So I don't need someone like you telling me what to do.

Someone like me? - she asks with a confused and hurt look on her face. - What do you mean by that? - I sigh because I really didn't mean this conversation to get here, but I also don't want to keep this inside.

Come on, I don't want to hurt your feelings, but we live very different lives. You might be my birth mother, but you grew up in a safe, secure environment. You had a kind of normal teenager life until you fell in love with a vampire, first boyfriend ever, married him at eighteen, had me, and what? You didn't go to university, you don't have a job. A profession, a calling, anything. You became a vampire, and froze at nineteen forever. Don't get me wrong, it's not that I judge people who don't have a degree or if they marry young, I appreciate hard-working people who have goals and dreams and any kind of experience. But you don't. You technically married into money, and you live very nicely. You haven't worked hard for anything, and you definitely lack the life experience to give me any advice about how to run my business.

She stands so still for minutes that if she wouldn't be a vampire I would think she died during my little speech. Her face shows no emotion, and after a few minutes she just nods and walks out, leaving me alone in the room.

I groan and finish my packing. I feel a little bad, but I didn't say anything that was not true, and even though usually I don't necessarily believe in calling out people on their shit, she needed to hear that. She needs to understand that I am not a helpless little girl anymore.

When I go down with my bags, every other Cullen is downstairs, except of course Carlisle and Esme, who already head back to DC. Jake is also there, and judging from the awkward expression on his face, everyone heard my little chat with Bella. Great.

She was standing next to Edward, and they both had a sad expression on their faces. I sighed, and turned towards them. I might as well say everything I want here and now, it's probably pointless to ask for privacy since everyone would hear the whole thing anyway.

Bella. - she flinches, I know she wants me to call her Mom, but that doesn't come so easily. - I am sorry for hurting you, but I really need you to understand that I am not a little girl. I grew up, and I am sorry you were not there, but I can't pretend otherwise. I don't know you guys, I need time to get to know you, to have a relationship. And I am open to that, but I won't tolerate you telling me what to do. I am sorry, but you don't have any right to do that. I am glad we met, but I can't throw away everything just to spend indefinite time with you.

I just wish you could stay with us forever. - she whispers.

I know… but I can't. - she nods and hesitates for a second before opening her arms. I smile before hugging her. It's a bit awkward, but it is definitely the start of something new. I turned to Edward after that.

Call us when you get back. And… anytime you want. We are here for you. - he says with a smile, and I hug him too.

Thank you. - I whisper and move on to the others.

Everyone has a kind word and a hug for me. After finishing and getting into the car with Jake, I feel overwhelmed.

Do you want me to drive? - he asks with a worried look. It's scary how well he reads me already.

No, I am good for a few hours. We can switch later.

He nods and we hit the road.

The road trip

Jake's POV

We were driving in silence for twenty minutes straight. She seemed so overwhelmed by the Cullen's goodbyes, that I wanted to give her some time to calm down and think things through. It seemed like she needed it, and after twenty minutes it turned out I was right, because the tension left her face and shoulders and she sat back in a more relaxed way. I am so tuned to her emotions, even though I only knew her adult self for a week, I could read her easily already. I asked Paul about that a few days ago, and he said it's normal, wolves are very much in sync with their imprints. That's why I felt she needed some reassurance about what happened with Bella.

You were right. With Bella. - I say after a while.

I was? - she sounds insecure. - I think I really hurt her feelings.

Maybe. Bella wanted her little girl back for so long, I don't think she realized that you will be a grown up woman.

Yeah, that's what I gathered as well.

But it's okay to have boundaries with them. Whatever makes you feel comfortable. - I give her a small smile, and when she smiles back with a grateful expression on her face, I can't look away for a minute. She is so beautiful. I understand Bells, of course I always did, and a part of me wishes that she could just stay in that house for longer so I could be close to her, but another part of me knows that's not what she needs. And that is the bigger part, because I desperately want to give her what she needs.

So, how about we stop at the grocery store to get some roadtrip snacks? - she asks, still with a smile on her face, and she starts to pull over for the closest grocery shop.

I love that idea.

It's almost noon when we stop at the grocery shop, so after grabbing a ton of unhealthy snacks and drinks from the shop, we go through a drive through and have lunch as well. Nessie can eat as many burgers as me, which is five right now, but just because I am not that hungry, it is still impressive.

If you give me a comment about eating like a guy, I am gonna punch you. - she says while sticking a fry into her mouth.

I wasn't planning to. - I say with a smirk and she rolls her eyes.

Sure, I can see it in your eyes. The same macho bullshit happened when I was drinking whiskey. - she takes another bite of her last burger. We are sitting in a parking lot, and watching the forest on the other side of the road. I shake my head with a smile.

I think you are impressive. That's all. - I say with a reassuring smile. I can't stop smiling around this woman. In the past years I don't think I smiled more than twice, and ever since she came back to my life I just can't stop doing it. She rolls her eyes again.

Well, you are not so impressive to be honest. You keep feeding me from drive throughs, that would not go well on a date. - her tone is teasing and at this point I don't even want to stop the smirk on my face.

I will definitely take you to nicer places when we have our first date, trust me. - it's a bold thing to say, and her smile falters for a minute. She seems confused, because my tone is teasing, but the confidence in my voice means that I am not joking at all.

Funny. - she looks away with a dry laugh and gathers around our paper wraps and other trash remaining from the lunch. - Keep your promises to your next girlfriend, Jake. I am going to throw these out. - and with that, she is out of the car and walking towards the trash can. I got out as well, but I don't correct or explain what I said to her. I know she will be my next girlfriend, the one and only, and I will wait as long as she needs me to. And I can sense that the thought of dating me terrifies her. I can feel it, and see it on her face. And I don't like it one bit, but I don't dare to push her on it.

Can I drive? - I ask instead and she gives me her keys with a hesitant smile.

Nessie officially claims the title of the DJ, and she puts on all kinds of music from her phone while I drive.

Do you have a favorite genre? - I ask, after listening through at least four different types of music.

Not really. - she smiles. - I love all kinds of music. Okay, maybe the hollering and shouting type of music is a no go, but otherwise I can find joy in every other type of music. It really depends on my mood.

So, no metal then?

Definitely not. You?

I like pop music, rap and rock mostly.

Do you have any requests? - she asks with a smile.

Something from Eminem. - she laughs, but compiles and puts on Godzilla from Eminem. I smirk at that.

We listen to this a lot with the guys in the shop.

He has good music. - she nods absentmindedly. - But he is an asshole in real life.

You have met Eminem? - I look at her with wide-eyes and she just rolls her eyes.

Of course. I work in the music industry, remember? I met with a lot of celebrities, work with half of them too. - she says it like it's not a big deal, and she probably sees the look I gave her because she continues with a smile. - I know it sounds stupid, but they are just people. Like everyone else, some of them are more talented than others, some of them are just lucky, or have good PR. But when you sit down with a famous person to talk or work with, it's really not that big of a deal. They have their own issues and their own conflicts, and what most people see is just a media representation of them. It's usually not very realistic.

I get that. It's just glitters. - I nod, and she smirks at my choice of words.

Mostly, yeah. And the press can be so annoying to deal with, that's why I work so hard to stay in the background, I don't want my name to be famous. It's not a burden I would like to carry. - she laughs a little. - And I almost ended up on the front page of a gossip magazine once.

What happened?

I worked hard to keep my name off my songs, and to work from the background with the artists, making them sign serious NDA's and all, and then I got stupid and went on a date with someone I shouldn't have.

Someone famous? - I raise an eyebrow at her.

Oh, yeah. - the way she says it means it was someone very famous. The thought that she has exes and such a big experience in dating already feels like a stab in the heart, but now I will keep thinking about if she dated someone who is known for the whole world. Is it a singer? Someone I listen to ? Maybe someone I like?

Who was it? - I ask before I think it through.

No, no. - she shakes her head. - Not telling. I promised myself I won't tell anyone, only Alex and one of my friends knows, and that's a lot too. It cost me a lot of money to not end on the news, and it was years ago anyway.

Come on, I won't tell anyone.

Still no.

Is it a musician? Did you work with him?

No. That's a golden rule, I don't date anyone I work with.

Okay, so not a musician. Actor?

Jake, stop it. I am not going to tell you. - she sighs and changes the music to Linkin Park. It's one of my favorite bands, and for a minute I am lost in the lyrics. Until I notice her smirk.

Did you just change the music to distract me from questioning?

Maybe.

How did you know I like Linkin Park?

Well, it's technically your generation's music. - she says generation in a teasing way, and I just roll my eyes.

My generation? So you call me old?

Maybe.

Oh, yeah? And what is your generation's music? Hannah Montana? - she throws her head back with a laugh. And the sound captures my heart all over again. She is so beautiful, but when she laughs she is just breathtaking.

It kind of is actually. - she nods. - We can listen to Hannah Montana, or I give you a better option, High School Musical. I know all the lyrics. - she starts to search on her phone.

Oh, no, thank you. I am fine with Linkin Park. And don't think I am that easy to distract. Back to your famous boyfriend. Who was he?

All I will give you is that he is in sports, and he was never my boyfriend. We dated like twice, the second time I spent the night with him and paparazzis took photos of me in the morning when I left. The photos didn't get to the newspaper, but it was a close class, he didn't mean anything so I stopped seeing him, and that's all there is to say. Now, please let's talk about something else.

I spent the night with him. The sentence resonates in my blood, mocking me, and suddenly all I can see is red. The jealousy is so strong, at this moment I could hunt down every single man that touched her. I take a few deep breaths before I speak.

Because hurting them wouldn't be right. Even if I want it badly. She wasn't with me at the time. She didn't even remember me. She had every right to date.

Tell me more about the children you work with. - I say quietly, still in the process of cooling down.

She smiles, and starts talking animatedly. This is a topic that brings her joy. I am stunned by her dedication. Even as a child, she was so sweet and compassionate, I had never even dreamed that she would achieve so much as a woman. She talks about the children she met in Iraq, the ones her team saved, the dire circumstances that they had to endure, and I see the heartbreak in her eyes. She talks about how much abuse they had to suffer, and how much it took her to learn how to work with them, how to show them that they can trust her and her colleagues.

These children don't trust anyone. They never had a reason to. They were forced to work since they could walk, the girls were sold off, it's brutal. They experienced so much fear and pain. And we first gave them medical care, shelter, food, water, you know the necessities. That is hard to get by, but we have a good system for that. It's actually the easy part. Because their bodies are usually repairable, after a few weeks of normal diet, sleep, and shower they look healthy. But healing the soul is a whole other thing. I could write a book about that. - she lets out a dry chuckle, and my heart is stabbed again with pain. She also suffered so much. Maybe even more than these kids… - There are children who are not speaking for months after we rescue them, even though they are safe, they are so traumatized it takes a lot of work to actually make them believe that they are safe now.

She talks about a little boy who only opened up because she found a connection with him through music, he loved listening to her playing the piano and singing, and one day he just joined in. They didn't hear him speak for months, and then out of the blue he just started to sing. He got adopted by a family, he started to play the piano and he is even attending competitions now. He sends a letter to Nessie every month.

She talks about a young teenage girl, who was brutally abused, sold off as a child bride, and never went to school. Nessie worked with her personally for two years, helping her realize that she isn't worthless. She is going to graduate high school this year, and she wants to follow in her footsteps, by becoming a psychologist and help people heal from their traumas.

Nessie has many stories like these. She sometimes cries a little while remembering, and some of them almost make me cry as well. It's amazing how much love she has.

I could listen to her forever, but after a while her voice grows softer and quieter, and soon she falls asleep. I turn down the music a little, and I let myself gently caress her face.

Nessie's POV

I must have fallen asleep, because the next time I open my eyes we are turning down and stopping at a gas station. The sun is almost down as well. Jake stops the car and smiles at me.

We need to fill the tank. Are you hungry? - he asks me, and I jawn in return.

Sorry. - he just smirks at me. - Yes, I am hungry.

Jake nods at me and then gets out to fill up our tank. I check my phone and answer a few messages, then I do a quick count. It's almost 6 PM, if we drive all night, we could be in LA around 9 AM in the morning. I could handle the important things in a few hours, then we could head home in the afternoon.

Jake gets back with four hot-dogs and some soda in the car. I take two happily.

Thank you. - I bite into one of the hot-dogs, and let out a little moan. - This is surprisingly good. You never know with gas-station foods, they are either disgusting or surprisingly good because you thought it would be disgusting.

True. - he laughs and starts to eat as well.

So, I think we should drive all night. I slept almost three hours now, so I am good to drive all night. You could sleep.

No way you are driving all night. - he shakes his head and swallows his remaining hot-dog in one bite. Wolves are impressive when it comes to eating.

Did that before, thank you for the confidence. And you were driving almost all day, it's not fair. - he sighs.

Let's compromise. You can drive until midnight, then we have another stop and we switch. - I try to glare at him, but he raises an eyebrow in a challenge. What a gentleman.

Fine. - I roll my eyes and open the door. - But I am getting a coffee first.

We are back on the road when I try my coffee the second time.

Okay, this coffee is unsurprisingly very bad. - I note while I take another sip and Jake smirks at me. - Wait until we get into LA, there is a wonderful little coffee shop close to my studio. You will love it, they have the best coffee and croissants. We can have breakfast there.

Sounds like a plan.

We talk a little bit more, but Jake soon falls asleep. I smile at that. He put up the tough guy act, like he could drive all day and all night alone, but I knew he could use some sleep. I don't think I am a typical feminist, at least definitely not the type who goes to protests and stuff, but I like equality. I don't like relationships where the guy does everything for the girl, and she doesn't contribute to anything. If we are going to be friends, it needs to be a partnership.

I have been driving in the past two hours, when I hear Jake talking.

Nessie. - he mumbles softly.

Yes? - I ask quietly, because he doesn't continue, but then I glance at his face and he is still fast asleep. It's almost difficult to tear my eyes away. He is so peaceful. So gorgeous. His skin has this beautiful reddish brown color, his face is sharp and defined, his cheekbones are worthy of every good romance novel, his mouth is full and kissable and his hair looks so soft and touchable. Not to mention the entire man is full of muscles. I swallow hard and force myself to look back onto the road.

Nessie. - he sighs again. Oh my god, he is dreaming of me. Does he have similar dreams like me? Part of me hopes not, because if the attraction is mutual that will cause us problems in the future. But another part of me is so happy by the idea.

Around midnight, he is still in a deep sleep and I am contemplating to just keep going. I am not that sleepy, I could drive at least two more hours. But as soon as I decide this, his phone starts to ring. It takes me a minute to realize that it's an alarm. He wakes up with a jawn, and turns it off.

You put on an alarm for midnight? Really?

Of course I did. - his smile is smug. - We agreed to switch around midnight, and I didn't trust that you would wake me up.

I would have. - I huff.

Oh really? - he checks his phone quickly. - Because there was a stop 10 minutes ago, where you could have comfortably stopped and woke me, but you didn't. Now it's still another twenty minutes until the next stop.

You are insufferable. - I say with a groan and he just keeps smiling with his arrogant handsome face.

After twenty minutes, I stop at the next gas station and let out a sigh.

I think it would be nice to stand a little. - I murmur and open up my door.

We have been sitting in that car in the past twelve hours at least, except for those two stops we had. I stand in front of my car, and Jake joins me in a minute without a word. The sky is totally black now, and we are close to a big city now, because we can barely see the stars.

I miss Valle del Lobo lately. The sky is always clear there, and the stars are beautiful. - I murmur while looking up at the dark sky. Jake does the same.

We are not that lucky in La Push because of the weather, but sometimes you can see the stars there too. My high school Spanish is very tragic, but does Valle del Lobo mean Wolf Forest?

Wolf Valley. - I smile. - And you might want to get better in Spanish. My grandpa speaks English, but he hates it, so he would really appreciate it if you could at least introduce yourself in Spanish.

Well I might need a tutor for that. - he smiles at me.

I might know someone. - I say teasingly and he laughs at me.

Your grandpa must be really cool. He is around two hundred right?

Oh yeah. He changed into a shapeshifter when he was eighteen, which in 1820. He stayed like that for years, there was a time when he was living as a wolf, a time when he moved away and visited other packs so the fact that he wasn't aging didn't catch people's eyes. But it probably did anyway, because there are stories and legends about him in the village. I think he secretly likes that actually.

Why did he stay like that for so long?

Well, the story is, he never found true love. Imprinting was very serious in his tribe, which had a big pack when he was young. Almost everyone had an imprint. And he believed it will happen to him, and he said he will wait until it does. Which took more than a hundred years. He came back to the village in the 1930s, met grandma in the 40's, and stopped phasing around that time. So in his physical form, he is above 90.

That is very cool. - Jake sounds so amazed that I have to laugh.

Yes, it is. They had a beautiful love. I always admired it. - I look up and it seems like Jake got closer and I haven't even noticed it. Our shoulders are touching, and he is laying half way on the car while his other half is turned towards me. This way we are almost at the same height level, and his face feels closer as well.

Why did you admire it? Their love. - he is so close that he rather whispers. Talking loudly would break the spell, and for a minute I am lost in his eyes. They are dark as the night, and they have so many emotions in them. I want to read them all.

Because they loved each other on a level I never thought was possible. - I whisper back. - They were … everything. They supported each other, they understood each other, even as old people they had this chemistry. Just one look across the room and you knew they belonged together. They were soulmates. And that is beautiful. - I wish I could erase the wistfulness from my tone, but from the way his eyes brighten I know he can hear it too. He slowly lifts a hand, and caresses my right cheek with it.

Do you want to have that too one day? - God, his voice is beautiful. So deep, so soft. But his questions awakens all the fear and disappointment that I somehow forgot about in the last few minutes. I step back with a deep breath.

Did. Once. But not again. It's beautiful, but it's just not for everyone, and I am okay with that. - at least I try to make myself believe I am okay with that. He looks heartbroken for a moment, but he quickly tries to hide it. - I am going to get you a coffee.

I turn around before he could say anything, and march into the gas station and I try to ignore how cold I feel without his closeness.