Finding My (Supernatural) Family Chapter 43, a twilight fanfic

Beginning Notes: Hello! I'm glad people are enjoying this fanfic! There are some changes I made for speaking but I will put the changes at the end to not spoil it! I hope you enjoy this chapter too!

Chapter 43: Old Memories and a New Ability

Faye POV

It's been so long since I've set foot in a bookstore. The last time I was in one, I was with Harry, laughing as he rambled about some new show he was obsessed with.

I was telling him about how the sun makes a sound, but we can't hear it, and he'd get that amazed look in his eyes like he was both fascinated and a little in awe of how much I loved these strange little facts.

And then he'd laugh—genuine and bright—and I'd see his eyes light up with that warmth, the kind that always made me feel seen. No matter how odd or quirky the things I shared were, he always listened, like every word I said mattered.

I can feel the ache deep in my chest, it's hard not to think about him. My eyes well up, and I can't stop it. I just hope, wherever he is doing, he's okay. I hope he's taking care of himself.

Ivy let out a soft whine, her presence brushing gently against my thoughts. I'm sure he's doing just fine, Faye, she murmured. And I know he'd be over the moon knowing you still love books and fun facts.

That thought made my chest tighten, tears threatening to spill. Before one could escape, I felt a gentle squeeze on my hand. I glanced up to find Robyn watching me, her brow furrowed in concern. "Everything okay?" she asked softly.

I glanced around, noticing Rose and Emmett, both studying me with the same worried look. Swallowing hard, I turned back to Robyn and gave a small nod. "Yeah… I'm okay. It's just—" I paused, my voice trembling. "The last time I was in a bookstore, I was talking to Harry about his favorite TV show."

A flicker of recognition crossed Robyn's face, her eyes softening with quiet understanding as she squeezed my hand reassuringly.

Rose's brow furrowed slightly, her curiosity evident. "Who's Harry?" she asked, her tone careful, as though she didn't want to overstep.

I hesitated, my throat tightening as I tried to find the right words. Robyn gave my hand another squeeze, grounding me.

"He was…" My voice faltered, the words catching in my throat, but I pushed forward. "He was the owner of the bookstore where I worked—and my best friend. He was 65 and absolutely loved talking about every new show he discovered." I paused, rubbing my eyes as the memories flooded back. "He was like the grandfather I never had."

I took a shaky breath, letting the memory settle. "I met him when I was 14. I'd been kicked out of one of my foster homes for the day, and it was raining. I didn't know where else to go, so I wandered into his bookstore, dripping wet and freezing. He didn't say much, just handed me a towel from the back and a cup of hot chocolate, like it was the most natural thing in the world."

My lips twitched into a small, bittersweet smile. "Then he took me to the children section and started sharing random fun facts, trying to make me smile. And it worked. I kept coming back after that, sneaking in whenever I could. I'd help dust the shelves, put books away—nothing big, just little things to feel useful. He never asked questions, never made me feel like I always doing something wrong like my fosters did."

I paused, the ache in my chest tightening. "When I turned 16, he officially offered me a job. But it wasn't just a job—it was a lifeline. He gave me a place where I felt safe, where I felt… wanted. He is the reason why I love fun facts so much."

Rosalie nodded gently, her golden eyes warm with understanding. "It sounds like he cared for you a lot," she said softly.

I hesitated, my throat tightening as I struggled to put my feelings into words. "He did… or at least, I hope he did," I murmured, my voice trembling. A bittersweet smile ghosted across my lips, but it quickly faded. "I know I cared for him. He meant everything to me. But maybe, to him, I was just some kid who hung around too much. A kid who showed up every day and wouldn't leave him alone."

My voice trembled, cracking softly as I lowered my gaze to my lap, my vision swimming with the sting of unshed tears. "I didn't even get the chance to tell him how much he meant to me," I whispered, blinking back the tears threatening to fall.

A gentle squeeze on my hand made me glance up. Robyn was staring at me, her expression fierce with determination. Her voice was steady and sure as she shook her head.

"There is no way he didn't care about you, Faye," she said firmly, her voice steady and unwavering. "Not a chance."

I blinked at her, startled by her certainty.

She leaned a bit closer, her hand gripping mine a little tighter. "You're incredible, Faye. From the very first moment I met you, even when you were in bear form, I cared about you. And it wasn't because of anything you said or did—it's just who you are. You have this way of drawing people in, making them care about you without even trying."

She held my gaze, her voice softening but no less resolute. "But since words matter to you right now, I'll say it: I care about you. A lot. And if I can feel that way after knowing you for a short time, I know Harry cared about you too. I'd bet anything he thought of you as family—as his granddaughter."

Her words hit me like a wave, warmth replacing the ache in my chest. "You really think so?" I asked, my voice quiet and unsure.

Robyn's expression softened, her determination shifting into a warm, reassuring smile. "I don't just think so—I know so. You don't just spend years with someone, share pieces of your life with them, and not care. He cared, Faye. You meant something to him—I'm sure of it."

Her words settled into me like a balm, soothing the sharp edges of guilt and regret. I nodded slowly, swallowing back the lump in my throat.

"Thank you," I whispered, my voice thick with emotion.

Robyn gave my hand another squeeze, her lips curving into a small, playful grin. "Anytime," she said lightly, her voice warm with affection. "But don't forget—you're stuck with me now, little sis. So, if you ever need more pep talks or anything else, I'm here for you."

A soft laugh escaped me, breaking through the lingering weight in my chest. I glanced up to see Emmett and Rose both nodding in agreement, their expressions radiating reassurance. "Don't worry, little bear," Emmett added, his deep voice unusually gentle. "You can always talk to us, too."

Rose smiled, her gaze steady and kind. "We mean it, Faye. Anytime," she said softly, her voice filled with warmth, wrapping around me like a gentle embrace.

Before I could respond, a soft whine brushed against my thoughts. Don't forget about me too, Ivy's voice murmured, her tone gentle and earnest. I'll always be here for you, Faye. Anytime you need me.

Their words surrounded me like a safety net, weaving together a quiet strength I didn't know I needed. A tiny, hopeful smile crept onto my lips as I nodded.

"Thank you, guys," I whispered, my voice thick with emotion as I wiped my nose with the napkin Rose gave me, sniffing quietly.

My gaze drifted to the bookstore, its welcoming glow stirring a mix of bittersweet memories and quiet hope. It wasn't the same store where Harry would be waiting with a warm smile and a stack of fun facts to share, but… maybe that was okay. Maybe this time, stepping inside with my new family could be just as special—maybe even better.

A small, tentative smile tugged at my lips as I turned back to them. "I think I'm ready to go inside now."

With Robyn holding one hand, Rosalie holding the other, and Emmett close beside us, we made our way inside.

As the door opened, the familiar scent of books enveloped me, a comforting smell that made my shoulders relax. It wasn't quite the same as Harry's shop, where the air carried hints of peppermint and hot chocolate, but it was still cozy in its own way. Behind the counter sat an older woman engrossed in a book, seemingly unaware of our arrival.

The bookstore was brimming with shelves, each labeled with signs indicating its contents. As my eyes scanned the room, I instinctively dropped Robyn and Rose's hands, my attention already drifting. I spotted the textbook section, the comics, adult fiction, children's books, nonfiction, and many more. But it was the fiction and children's sections that made my heart race.

Without a second thought, I darted toward them, excitement bubbling inside me. It had been so long since I'd set foot in a bookstore or library, and the thrill was almost overwhelming. My mind was so caught up in the possibilities that I didn't notice the display until I crashed straight into it.

A soft "oof" escaped me as I landed on my butt. My eyes darted upward to the display, which was now swaying dangerously. It wobbled back and forth, as if deciding whether to collapse onto me or fall in the other direction. My heart raced as it leaned toward me, the inevitability of its fall dawning too late.

I tensed, ready for impact—

A hand shot out, steadying the display just before it could crash. Tilting my head back, I saw Rose standing over me, her golden eyes filled with concern, though a flicker of amusement danced in them too.

"Oops," I said sheepishly, flashing her an apologetic grin.

She shook her head, her lips twitching with a small smile as she stabilized the display with ease. Then, with a gentle but firm grip, she helped me to my feet, brushing invisible dust off my clothes.

"How about you stay close, baby bear?" she teased, her voice soft and filled with warmth.

Heat crept up my cheeks as I nodded, both embarrassed and comforted by her presence. "Probably for the best," I mumbled, giving her a sheepish grin. Rose's smile widened slightly, and she placed a reassuring hand on my back, gently steering me back toward the group.

As we got closer, I noticed the amused expressions on their faces, and my cheeks burned instantly. Emmett let out a chuckle, his grin widening. "So, you decided to pick a fight with a display, huh, baby bear?"

I shot him a mock glare, but the pout forming on my lips betrayed me. Crossing my arms over my chest, I huffed, "I just got a little too excited. Besides, it's not my fault—the display was in the way."

Ivy snorted, clearly amused. With a swift push forward, she took control just long enough to say her piece before retreating again. "Oh, right. The display just grew legs and deliberately stepped in your way to keep you from reaching the books."

My cheeks burned even hotter, and I mumbled a feeble, "Maybe…"

Robyn let out an amused chuckle, shaking her head lightly. Just when I about to defend myself when Rose's hand tousled my hair, cutting me off. "Okay, how about we focus on finding some books, huh?"

Excitement flared again, but before I could take off, Rose scooped me up into her arms. I let out an exaggerated pout crossing my arms, which only made her smile. "Hold on, little one," she said, her tone light but firm. "Before you dart off again, we're going to make a plan."

I sighed but didn't fight it as I glanced over at Emmett, who was nodding like he was deep in thought. His eyes suddenly lit up, and he threw an arm over Robyn's shoulders. "Alright, here's the plan: I'll take Robyn to check out the comics section, and you can take Faye and Ivy to grab some fun fact books— and maybe a bit of something else. They each can pick out two books and once we've got everything, we'll meet up in that cozy corner over there."

He gestured toward a brightly decorated nook filled with beanbags, soft chairs, and small tables, all under a cheerful sign that read: Cozy Corner – Reading is Fun! Just the sight of it made me squirm with excitement in Rose's arms.

Look at all those books! Beanbags! It's been a while since I've seen or felt a beanbag!

Rose raised a skeptical eyebrow, clearly debating the plan, but Emmett pressed on before she could object. "This way, it'll save time and make it easier to keep an eye on them." He nodded toward Robyn and me, his grin widening. "Plus, let's be honest—Faye doesn't look like she can sit still much longer."

I barely registered what he was saying. The reading nook had completely stolen my attention. Rose glanced down at me, her lips curving into a fond smile as she shook her head softly. Meanwhile, Emmett flashed a knowing grin. "See? Solid plan, right?"

Rose sighed, though her grip on me tightened slightly. "Alright, I guess that's true. As much as I hate the idea of splitting up, it is a good plan." Her voice softened as she looked down at me. "I don't want you out of my sight, okay, baby bear?"

She gave me a gentle squeeze to make sure I was paying attention, and I quickly nodded, my head bobbing enthusiastically. Rose chuckled, her expression softening further, before turning her gaze to Robyn. "And you," she said, her tone firm but soft, "stay with Emmett, alright, little bird?"

Robyn nodded in agreement, though her eyes were already darting toward the comic section like she was ready to take off the moment she got the green light.

Rose smiled and glanced at Emmett. "Whoever finishes first, meet at the cozy corner. Sound good?" Emmett's face lit up with a broad grin as he nodded enthusiastically.

With the plan set, we split up—Rosalie and Emmett each grabbing a small handheld basket. Emmett slung an arm around Robyn's shoulders, steering her straight toward the comic section, while Rosalie adjusted her hold on me, effortlessly carrying me deeper into the shop.

As we walked through the bookstore, my head whipped around so quickly I was starting to get dizzy—but I couldn't help it! It had been so long since I'd been in a place like this. Back at the cabin, I'd finished the three books I had ages ago and reread them so many times I practically had them memorized. Now, I finally had options again!

I also couldn't ignore Ivy's curiosity pressing at the edges of my mind. It dawned on me that this might be the first time she'd ever been in a bookstore. That thought made me even more determined to find a book we could both enjoy.

Hey, Ivy. I want to pick out something we can read together. Is there any genre you're interested in?

The moment she heard that, I felt a jolt of excitement ripple through her. Her tail began to wag. Are you for real?! I actually get to pick a book with you? I mentally nodded, and she let out a delighted yip.

So, about the book…

Hmm, I guess. I would like a book with…. Hmm… Adventure! Yes! And magic! And fantasy! But if you can't find one like that, I wouldn't mind any lighthearted books like comedy or something.

I chuckled, feeling a warmth settle in my chest. It made me happy just knowing she was happy. But before I could get too lost in the moment, I felt a gentle squeeze on my hip, snapping me back to reality. Blinking, I looked up to see Rosalie watching me with an amused smile.

"Talking with Ivy, little bear?"

I grinned, nodding. "Yeah, I was just asking her what kind of book she wanted. I know we get two books, but I wanted to share my second one with her."

Rosalie's expression softened. "That's sweet of you, baby bear. But you know, if she wants, we can get her two books as well."

I froze, my mouth dropping open in shock. I probably looked like the shocked Pikachu meme. Rose chuckled at my reaction, snapping me out of it.

"I didn't even think of that… Hold on, let me ask her."

Closing my eyes, I focused on Ivy.

What do you think? Want your own books?

She hesitated, considering it before surprising shaking her head no. No, I think I'm good. I don't really know what I'd like yet… I'd rather share the second book with you for now. If you don't mind…

I don't mind sharing. Are you sure though?

Yeah, but…if I find books I like now and when we come back, can you ask her if I can pick two then?

Why don't you ask her yourself? You know I don't mind letting you take over to talk to her.

Ivy hesitated again before speaking, her tone shifting. Before I do… what you said at the mall—about making a spell to separate us and give me my own body… are you really going to do it?

Of course I will, Ivy! I softened, remembering the frustration I'd felt from her when she couldn't do anything to help me deal with Shawn. I felt your frustration when you physically couldn't do anything when trying to help me deal with Shawn. I thought it might be a good idea try to do it in the car, but I don't want to do it too fast and mess it up. Can you give me a little time to get the spell right? It might take a bit of time. I hope that's okay…

She nodded quickly. No, no, that's totally fine! I am excited to be able to give you and everyone a big hug whenever it happens! Until then I am happy with being able to communicate with you and Robyn! But I think I found something that could work in the meantime. Want to try it?

Intrigued, I agreed.

Okay, she said,take a deep breath. When you feel me taking over, don't sink back—try to balance with me, like we're equal weight on a teeter-totter or a scale.

I followed her instructions, focusing on keeping that balance as she moved to take over.

This felt weird…

That's it! Now imagine something underneath it, holding it in place.

I pictured two sturdy boxes and slid them beneath each side of the teeter-totter in my mind. As soon as I did, something clicked into place.

The air smelled cleaner, crisper—like I could pick out every scent in the room. My teeth felt sharper, my hearing more refined. Every little sound stood out, and when someone slapped their book down on a table, I flinched.

"Baby bear? Are you okay?"

I opened my eyes, parting my lips to answer—but the words caught in my throat. Everything looked sharper, more detailed than before. I could even tell that Rose had deliberately led us to a quieter section of the bookstore, away from the crowd.

"Baby bear?"

I turned toward her, but even that felt off—like my movements weren't entirely my own. The moment my gaze met hers, she gasped.

I tilted my head. "What's wrong?"

But before she could answer, my mouth moved—without me doing it.

"Don't worry, you'll get used to it."

I froze, my mind struggling to process what just happened. Then, realization hit me.

"Ivy?"

My hand lifted in front of my face—again, without my control—and formed a peace sign.

"Yeah, it's me! Pretty cool, right? We can share—well, control—your body at the same time!"

I was still reeling trying to understand when she continued excitedly.

"Oh! Try this! On the count of three, say 'SpongeBob' with me!"

Still stunned, I hesitated—but curiosity won out.

"…Alright."

"Okay! One, two, three!"

"SpongeBob. Bob."

Our voices overlapped—not perfectly in sync, but layered, like an eerie double-echo.

"Dang it! I guess this will take some practice," Ivy huffed, sounding like she was pouting. "But I'm pretty sure the more we do this, the more in sync we'll get!"

I stared in shock again for a few seconds before I realized something.

Wait—something felt different.

I could feel her emotions more clearly now, almost as if our feelings were blending together. My own confusion tangled with her excitement, overlapping in a way that made it hard to tell where one ended and the other began.

It's not a bad feeling… it will just take time to get used to.

This was so weird.

Weird… but kind of amazing.

A throat cleared, making us look up.

Yep. Still not used to this.

Rose was staring at us, her expression somewhere between awe and fascination.

"That's incredible! I don't know if you realize this, but your eyes are two different colors."

Wait… what?

"Wait… really?"

Rose nodded before placing me- I mean us down on our feet and digging through her silver purse. A moment later, she pulled out a small makeup mirror and handed it to us.

We took it, bringing it up to our face—our faces? —and I inhaled sharply.

One eye was mine—warm brown, the same as always. But the other… the other was Ivy's striking blue.

With both of us in control, our eyes had split—heterochromia.

"Woah…"

It kind of reminded me of that one time when we were attempting to switch for the first time in the forest.

Yeah, that's where I got the idea! I wasn't sure if it would work but I'm glad it did!

Soo, are you planning on asking Rose?

Oh yeah!

We turned to face Rose and Ivy suddenly became shy as she looked down a bit. Her eyes glancing between Rose and the floor.

Hmm, that's new.

"Uh, Rose? Umm…. Would it be okay if Faye and I shared the second book for now? I'm not sure which one I want yet… but if I find something later, could I pick another one next time we come back?"

Rose knelt down to our level, her hands cradling our face as she gently tilted our head until our eyes met hers.

"Of course, little pup. We can come back anytime. But if you change your mind or find a series you like, we can get it today, okay? In fact, how about we take a look around after we get Faye's books and if we find something you like we can get it. Does that sound good?"

As she spoke, one hand drifted from our cheek, her fingers brushed soothingly over the top of our head, her touch calm and reassuring. The steady motion helped Ivy relax, and she instinctively leaned into Rose's palm, melting into the quiet comfort she offered.

Ivy nodded, still a little shy but clearly pleased that she had agreed. Then, out of nowhere, a wave of nausea hit me—like motion sickness, but worse. My head spun, and my stomach twisted as if I were about to throw up.

I wasn't the only one feeling it. Ivy clamped both hands over our mouth, hunching over slightly as she squeezed her eyes shut.

"What's wrong?" Rosalie's voice cut through the haze, laced with concern.

Ivy?

I think it's time for us to stop.

Stop? Stop what?

Splitting control. I think if we do it for too long, there are side effects. With practice, we should be able to hold it longer, but for now… I think we should stop. Ready?

Yeah… but how?

Just remove the boxes from under the imaginary teeter-totter and push forward for control. I already told our bond what I wanted to tell her, so I'm ready.

I wanted to argue, but another sharp wave of nausea shut me up fast. I hurriedly did as Ivy said, picturing the boxes disappearing and shoving forward for control.

The change was immediate. The dizziness faded, and the nausea subsided, though a faint, uneasy pressure still sat heavy in my stomach.

Yeah, that should go away soon. Sorry, Faye… I should have known there would have been side effects. Ivy said softly. I could feel her guilt and how upset she was.

Don't worry about it, Ives. There was no way you could've known. What matters is that you caught it when you did. I, on the other hand, had no clue. Without you, I probably would've been standing there confused, hurt, and panicking—so seriously, thank you.

I could feel Ivy's guilt began to melt away as I felt her nuzzle the side of my mind. A silent apology and a thank you.

I blinked my eyes open, immediately met with Rosalie's worried gaze.

She had been looking at me like that a lot lately.

Guilt tugged at my chest, but I shoved it aside. No—I couldn't let her worry too much. Not today. It was our first day out together as a family, and the last thing I wanted was to be a burden.

Forcing a quick smile, I tried to ease her concern. If she noticed my attempt, she didn't let on—probably too focused on what had just happened.

"What happened, baby bear?" she asked softly, her voice thick with concern. Her golden eyes, warm yet anxious, searched mine for answers.

I shook my head lightly, careful not to make the dizziness come back. "We're okay. Ivy said it's just a side effect from sharing like that—just made us dizzy and nauseous for a minute."

I expected that to ease Rosalie's concern, but if anything, it only seemed to make her worry more. "Are you sure? Do you need nausea medicine? I think I saw a store nearby—they might have something. Can you walk? Would you like me to carry you?"

I blinked in surprise at the rapid-fire questions, but apparently, I hesitated a little too long because before I could answer, she was already moving to pick me up. Snapping out of it, I quickly shook my head, subtly leaning into her instead to dodge the attempt. Not because I didn't like her carrying me—it's just… I needed to stretch my legs sometimes. I never been picked up for that way in a long time, the last person who picked me up was my social worker when I was around nine years old. And I knew if I let her pick me up, it would be a while before she set me down again.

"No, I'm okay, Rose," I reassured her. "I don't need medicine. I just need a minute. I can walk." I felt her relax slightly before her fingers found the baby hairs at the nape of my neck, idly playing with them. The gentle touch sent a wave of warmth through me, and I melted further into her.

"Okay, baby bear," she murmured. "As long as you're sure you're okay to keep going."

I nodded, meeting her gaze as I pulled back just enough to flash her a small smile. "Yeah, I'm okay! I'm ready."

She gave me one last searching look, as if making sure I was truly okay, before she seemed semi-satisfied. With that, we turned and made our way toward a random section of the library where mine and maybe Ivy's book could be.