Dear
Agony
Chapter 1
Two hundred and twenty
miles away from La Push, Washington stood the town of Langley, British
Columbia, Canada. The town was
surrounded by woods, which is exactly what he wanted. It looked as though there weren’t a lot of attractive
females, even better. The last thing he
needed was another distraction from his true potential.
A russet colored wolf
surveyed the area through the trees, snarling, knowing he probably should go
further than Langley. Something told him
to stay here, that over two hundred miles was far enough. All he wanted was an escape from the pain
that was slowly eating him alive.
Was it so hard to
believe that, even being a male, he had deep feelings nobody could
understand? He remembered Leah’s words,
knowing how bitter the woman was, especially since her cousin, Emily, stole who
she thought was the love of her life –Sam Uley, the pack’s alpha- away. Leah should follow her own advice because, as
far as Jacob was concerned, she was no more over Sam than he was over…her.
Even over two hundred
miles away, Jacob still couldn’t escape the pain and rejection, looking up at
the night sky in wonder. Why was fate so
cruel to him? Why would fate deliberately
send an angel his way, only for her to fall for a bloodsucking leech? Jacob snarled, the thought of Edward Cullen
making his skin crawl and his blood hot with rage.
He wanted to rip
Cullen limb from limb, but knew that would only hurt…her.
He couldn’t fathom
saying or even thinking her name, knowing that would just make another
explosion of pain course through his body.
Jacob had to move on and get over her, which is why he left La
Push. Sam understood, as well as the
rest of the pack, but Jacob knew deep down they all thought he was a coward for
running away.
All because SHE didn’t
choose him in the end.
He could still hear
her words in his head echoing repeatedly like a record skipping on a player.
I love you, Jake, but I can’t live without him.
She wanted to be a
bloodsucker, something he still and would never understand. How could she want to live off of animal’s
blood for the rest of her life? How
could she want her heart to stop beating and her skin turn cold as ice? As far as Jacob was concerned, when she
finally did decide to become a bloodsucker, he would be ready to end her
misery.
He had every right to
do it because of the treaty. It clearly
stated that if any of the Cullens bit a human, the truce would be over. She couldn’t believe it and tried telling him
if she chose that path, it had nothing to do with him.
None of that mattered
though.
He warned the
bloodsucker who stole her away from him.
The treaty would be null and void, which would leave Edward Cullen
unprotected and Jacob could finally exact his revenge. Feeling the bloodsucker’s throat in his mouth
as he tore it open would be the greatest feeling in the world.
The more Jacob thought
about it, the more he wanted to feel the bloodsucker’s icy blood in his mouth,
a growl escaping him. He still couldn’t
believe the audacity of her bloodsucker to send him a wedding invitation, as if
silently driving that knife deeper into his heart. The whole ‘I win, you lose’ silent
statement. It was politely written, but
Jacob knew what the true meaning behind it was.
Edward had gloated
about her choosing him over a dog and that just pissed Jacob off even further.
I will rip him apart! Jacob thought angrily,
running through the woods at top speed, gaining a second wind as he tore
through the trees, the ground thumping beneath his huge paws.
Jacob stopped briefly
for a drink of water at a nearby spring, his ears perking up at the sound of
something in the far distance. Raising
his head, Jacob’s dark eyes watched as a woman ran through the woods, dressed
from head to toe in black. What the hell
was she doing out here in the middle of the night?
Moving gracefully and
without a sound, Jacob headed in her direction, deciding he would follow her in
case something happened. He was a
protector of all humans and decided this was the perfect distraction, eyes
narrowed in focus. Though he couldn’t
help thinking what an idiot this girl was for running in dangerous, dark woods
in the middle of the night.
Jacob didn’t have a
hard time keeping up with her, seeing how much she stumbled, and coughed
several times in his wolf laughter. He
thought he would stay a wolf, having decided that the moment he left La Push,
but it was obvious just from the crying coming from this girl that she needed
help. She definitely wasn’t coordinated
and reminded him of…
No!
Jacob wouldn’t think
about that and pushed those memories to the far recesses of his mind, needing
to focus on protecting this human. He
saw her scramble for the bag she’d brought with her, eyebrows furrowing in thought,
wondering if he should phase into human form.
Would it scare her more than him being a wolf?
He honestly didn’t
know.
Her head snapped up
when a snapping of twigs echoed in the near distance, immediately scrambling
up, wincing at her hurt ankle. She had
to get away and fast, feeling as though her heart would leap out of her chest
at any given moment and land on the ground before her. Limping, she used the trees to keep her
balance and to push her forward, trying to see what was in front of her, hating
that it was pitch black outside.
There was no moon on
this night.
“Please…please see me
through this…” She whispered into the cold night, finally falling to her knees
as the tears cascaded freely down her cheeks.
Her entire body
shivered from the cold, even though she was dressed in a black hooded
sweatshirt with black jeans and fingerless gloves. It didn’t matter, this was Canada and it was
always nearly freezing at night. She
wasn’t used to this weather and probably never would be, wishing for the hot
climate of Texas.
Jacob watched as she
curled up in a tight ball on the ground by a tree, knowing she would freeze to
death since little snowflakes began to fall.
It didn’t matter that it was early June, not in Canada. Sometimes it snowed in La Push during June,
it just depended on what the weather wanted to do.
Sighing, Jacob waited
until she was asleep, watching her chest rise and fall evenly, and lay down
beside her. He knew his one hundred and
nine body temperature would definitely come in handy, feeling her instantly
cling to the warmth he provided. Jacob
let out a deep grunt, already feeling her shivering subside, and made sure to
curl up against her so she didn’t lose any toes or limbs.
Wherever this warmth was
coming from, she didn’t want it to end and curled further into. A deep, trembling sigh escaped her lips as
she slept soundly, exhausted from the running she’d done. While she slept, Jacob surveyed her ankle and
frowned, knowing it was badly bruised. He
decided he would be sticking by her, though wondered why she was running.
Judging by the
tearstain streaks on her cheeks, Jacob had a feeling she was running away from
something or someone. From what he could
see, since his vision was perfect at night, she had long honey chestnut colored
hair that fell over her shoulders and bunched up on top of her head. She had black fingerless gloves on that
looked like they wrapped tightly around her wrists, sparking his interest even
further.
Jacob.
He sighed, hearing
Sam’s voice in his head, knowing he was worried sick. I’m fine, Sam. He was busy looking over the girl, knowing she
couldn’t have been anymore than sixteen years old, reaching his paw up to place
over her folded hands on top of her chest.
Jacob, you have to come back to La Push. What’s going on? Sam could feel like
Jacob wasn’t paying attention to him, pacing back and forth in the woods,
looking over his shoulder at Paul and Jared.
Jake, man, it ain’t the same without you. Jared whined, sniffing
the air, knowing he was far away from La Push, at least in human speed. To the wolves, they could probably reach him
in two hours tops.
Should Jacob tell them
about the girl? He already knew Sam
heard his thoughts and mentally cursed; sighing heavily when Sam began
demanding what he was talking about.
Paul shook his head, his sleek black and white fur shining in the
moonlight, wondering why they were out here when it was obvious Jacob didn’t
want to come back.
What girl are you talking about, Jacob? Sam ordered, knowing
Jacob couldn’t deny the alpha an answer he demanded to know. Where are you?
Langley. Jacob was trying to bypass what Sam
really wanted to know, desperately wanting to be left alone, but knew the pack
wouldn’t allow it.
What girl is he thinking about? Paul demanded, his
temper already flaring, though curiosity was definitely peeked since it wasn’t
Isabella Swan.
The moment Paul
thought that name; Jacob closed his eyes painfully shut, the devastation
overtaking him all over again. Sam sighed,
feeling his fellow member’s agony, and wanted growled angrily at Paul. Jared lowered himself to the ground, planting
his paws as the claws came out, and lunged at Paul as they both toppled into
the woods.
Morons. Sam thought angrily, deciding to let
Jared and Paul release their anger, even though Paul really needed to learn to
control his thoughts. Jacob, you didn’t
answer my question.
Leave me alone, Sam. I want to be alone right now. Jacob bit back a howl,
knowing he couldn’t wake the girl up, especially the dark circles under her
eyes. That told him instantly she
probably hadn’t slept in days.
Sam was going to
murder Paul slowly and deliberately as the connection was abruptly cut off,
deciding he’d see what kind of damage Jared did first. Jared was pretty tough when he wanted to be
and also one of Jacob’s best friends. A
chocolate brown wolf came trotting up moments later, having heard the rumble in
the woods.
I heard what Paul did when I phased. Quil said before Sam
could question him, both of them looking at the area where Jared and Paul
disappeared to. How’s Jake?
The same, though he mentioned a girl. Sam briefly wondered
if it was Bella, immediately pushing that thought from his mind, knowing she
was with the bloodsuckers.
A girl? Now Quil was intrigued, wagging his
tail back and forth. Do you think...?
No, Bella is on the other side of the treaty
line. She wouldn’t come here, especially
with the wedding and whatnot. Sam was sure of it as he headed back
to La Push, knowing Emily was expecting him back.
It was supposed to be
his night off from patrolling, though with the pack split in half…things were
tense to say the least. Seth and Leah
refused to follow Sam, for obvious reasons, and Paul’s temper was nearly uncontrollable. Jared and Quil were Jacob’s followers and
best friends, so that made it even worse.
How’s Claire? Sam asked, deciding to change the
subject, not wanting to talk about Jacob anymore.
She’s fine, growing up fast. Quil sighed, knowing
the pack didn’t blame him for imprinting on a two year old. He couldn’t help what the process did,
especially since it was ostensibly supposed to be only legend.
Sam nodded once and
walked behind a tree, phasing moments later as he slipped his shorts on, tying
the band that was around his left ankle to his wrist. It was the only way he could carry around the
shorts so he wasn’t naked. Quil was on
patrol tonight, so he ran off, needing to find Jared.
Who was this girl that
Jacob mentioned? Sam couldn’t help
thinking about it the entire walk back home.
Emily was probably sleeping, hoping she wasn’t angry at him, but he
couldn’t help being worried about Jacob.
Bella Swan had really
messed him up physically and emotionally.
Sam hoped she never stepped foot on Quileute lands again. He wouldn’t be responsible for what happened
if she did or her bloodsuckers for that matter.
Sam knew what it felt like to have his heart ripped out of his chest and
stomped on because he felt that way when he had to break things off with
Leah.
He truly loved her,
but knew he belonged with Emily due to the imprinting. It shattered him to break her heart, but
there was nothing Sam could do, it was simply out of his control. Every day Sam felt pain and guilt because he
had to look at Leah, who was part of the pack, and see how much hurt she still
felt from his betrayal.
“Sam?” Emily’s sweet
voice called from the distance, his thoughts instantly vanishing.
“What are you doing
out here?” He demanded softly, picking up the pace and finally arrived, walking
up the porch steps where she stood waiting for him. “I thought you were
sleeping.”
“I was worried about
you.” Emily replied, stroking his cheek with the back of her hand, staring into
his eyes. “You know I can’t help it.”
Sam sighed gently and
pulled her into his arms, hugging her close, nuzzling her neck. Not only did he have to feel guilt every time
he looked at Leah, but also whenever he looked at Emily. She had scars all down the right side of her
face, remembering that horrific night, swallowing hard.
He phased in front of
her during an argument they were having and Emily was standing too close when
it happened. Sam immediately phased back
and took her to the hospital, thinking he’d lost her for good. When Emily assured him she wasn’t angry and
loved him no matter what, Sam knew instantly he’d made the right decision, as
hard as it was leaving Leah.
“You have to stop
worrying about him.” Emily murmured, knowing it was hard because Sam thought of
Jacob like a brother, along with the rest of the boys.
Jacob was his closest
though for obvious reasons, mainly due to the fact that Jacob should
technically be the alpha of the pack. It
was in his blood from his great-grandfather, Ephraim Black, who was the one
that originated the treaty with the Cullens to stay off Quileute lands and to
maintain peace between the shape shifters and vampires. Ephraim was the alpha of the pack back and
Jacob was supposed to take that position once he phased, though told Sam to
keep it.
“He’ll be back. Come on, let’s go to bed.” He guided Emily
inside, looking over his shoulder, and hoped Jacob made it back safely, still
questioning who this mystery girl was.
Chapter 2
Cobalt blue eyes
slowly fluttered open the following morning, gradually looking around her
surroundings, wondering where she was.
She brushed the snow off of her, seeing the sun peeking through the
trees, and knew she had to keep moving.
How she managed to stay warm throughout the night was beyond her, though
none of that mattered. Hissing in pain,
she slowly stood up, holding the tree for support and continued through the
woods.
She wasn’t alone.
Jacob decided at the
last second to hide when he felt the girl start to stir, knowing it would be
pretty awkward and scary for her to wake up sleeping next to a huge wolf. Jacob wasn’t the normal sized wolf either and
he knew it, looking down at his long legs and huge paws. She would’ve screamed bloody murder and tried
running for her life, injuring that ankle further.
“KIRSTYN!!”
The girl’s head
snapped to the side, eyes widening in fright, feeling as though her heart would
stop. Jacob didn’t miss this either,
perking his ears, hearing the rustling of leaves about two or three hundred
feet away from them. Even if she could
run, Jacob knew she would never outrun this pursuer. The sound of the deep, angry deep baritone
raised red flags, having a sinking feeling this girl was running from some kind
of danger.
Damn it… Jacob growled in his mind, wondering
if any of the pack phased currently, knowing what he would have to do. I don’t
have a choice.
“No.” Kirstyn
whispered dreadfully, ignoring the throbbing pain in her ankle as she kept
trekking, needing to get as far away from him as possible.
Not paying attention,
Kirstyn ended up colliding with something extremely hard and soft at the same
time, blinking as she tried pushing the cobwebs away. The collision caused her to land on her
backside, swallowing hard at the very huge, reddish brown colored wolf before
her. Instead of becoming a beating post,
she was going to end up this wolf’s meal and felt the tears slide down her
cheeks.
Jacob sighed, not
surprised by the reaction, and knew they were running out of time. He took a step toward her, watching her eyes squeeze
tightly shut, and nudged her frantically with his nose. The girl looked up at him through shocked
blue eyes, leaves sticking out of her chestnut locks, wondering why he wasn’t
attacking her.
Come on girl, we don’t have time for this! Jacob’s voice was
frantic, coughing as he nudged her again, knowing he couldn’t phase. He had to protect her, watching her slowly
back away from him.
“No please!” She cried
out when the wolf grabbed a piece of her shirt, yanking on it toward him,
fighting him off the best she could.
Damn it!
Would it be easier to just knock her out? Jacob wondered,
growing very impatient, and released her shirt as he started pacing back and
forth in front of her.
Kirstyn was stunned by
this wolf’s behavior, arching a slow eyebrow and gasped when she heard her name
being shouted again. He was getting
closer. Her blood ran cold, staring into
the wolf’s eyes for the first time, slowly standing up only to collapse. Her ankle was giving out and now wasn’t the
time to be doing it.
Before she hit the
ground, Jacob caught her with his back, deciding he had to do the only thing he
could think of. He popped her in the air
to where she landed further on his broad back, knowing he was bigger than any
normal wolf, so she would have plenty of room.
He didn’t waste time and took off into the woods, hoping the girl got
the message and just held on for dear life.
He wasn’t stopping.
Kirstyn let out a
small shriek when the wolf took off, wrapping her arms tightly around its neck,
clinging so she didn’t fall off. What
the hell was with this wolf? The cold
air flowed over her body, though Kirstyn barely felt it due to how hot the
wolf’s skin and fur was against her.
Instead of trembling with fear, Kirstyn just buried her face in the
wolf’s neck, closing her eyes tightly shut, hoping she didn’t become this
wolf’s meal.
Jacob sighed with
relief when she didn’t fight him off, running as fast as he could without
giving her whiplash, knowing they had to put distance between her and the
pursuer. He’d been gone for nearly two
months from La Push, wondering if it was time to go back and face the
music. He really didn’t want to return,
but at the same time, La Push was the only place he could think of to take this
girl and keep her safe.
Sam, are you there? Jacob called, closing
his eyes, not even needing vision to fly through the woods. He’d arrive at the United States border that
would lead into Washington in about an hour or so, since he was going slower
than usual.
Jake, what’s going on? Jared asked, having
been on the morning patrol. Sam is with
Emily.
Damn it, I need to talk to him. It’s urgent. Jacob sighed, feeling
the girl slumping against him, knowing she’d fallen asleep. He saw a nearby rock formation that looked
like there was a cave inside, deciding they could rest for a few before making
the rest of the trip. I’m coming back
sooner than I thought.
Whoa, really? Jared blinked, not expecting to hear
that, though he knew Sam would be ecstatic to hear the news. Something wasn’t right though; Jared could
feel Jacob’s apprehension and frowned. Jake,
what’s going on?
I can’t explain right now.
Jacob headed up the
rocks with ease and grace, never once allow her to fall, surprised by how tight
her grip was even as she slept. He knew because
he could feel her chest rising and falling evenly against his back, wondering
what the girl’s story was. He would soon
find out, remembering the name that was shouted, finally stopping once inside
the cave.
Kirstyn.
Who’s Kirstyn?
Jacob winced,
forgetting that he was still in connection with the pack, hating that they
could hear every one of his thoughts. Jared,
just tell Sam to contact me as soon as possible. He growled, wondering if
going back to La Push was the smartest idea.
Deciding the only way
to cut communication was to change into human form; Jacob gently set Kirstyn
down in the cave before rushing out to phase.
He slipped into a pair of black jean cut off shorts he carried with him,
feet bare, and headed back inside to watch over her. It started snowing a little so Jacob quickly
started a fire for Kirstyn’s benefit. He
never got cold, not having a twenty four hour body temperature that fluctuated
between one hundred eight and one hundred nine degrees.
Once the fire began
roaring, Jacob sat down beside the girl, frowning at the fetal position she
curled in. He gently pulled her into his
arms, holding against his hot chest, the shivering she did instantly subsiding. Jacob didn’t know why, but he felt he had to
protect her, sighing gently. Sam was
probably going to strangle him for leaving and then coming back with a stray,
but they were protectors of all humans.
Especially innocent
girls that were in trouble.
“Who are you?” Jacob
murmured thoughtfully, brushing a chestnut lock of hair away from her face,
staring into her angelic face.
She had somewhat of a
tan complexion, though it was nothing compared to his natural russet skin. To him, she was white as a ghost with deep
blue eyes that had dark rings beneath them.
Jacob was dying to know who she was running from and why, but knew the
answers would come in time.
A few hours later,
Kirstyn slowly opened her eyes, a loud yawn escaping her. She hadn’t slept that good in what seemed
like years, feeling the heat on her face.
Though the peacefulness quickly drained away when her vision cleared,
swallowing hard as she looked up at the man who was holding her.
Where did the wolf go
and who the hell was this?
Tears instantly stung
her eyes, knowing exactly what happened, trying not to let them fall. This was probably one of his henchmen that
came after her and succeeded, which meant the wolf was dead. Remorseful tears slid down her cheeks as
Kirstyn began trembling, not caring if she woke up this monster or not, not
wanting to go back.
“Please…” She
whispered, knowing it would do absolutely no good, but Kirstyn had to think of
something fast before it was too late.
Jacob felt her stir in
his arms, slowly opening his eyes, having dozed off without meaning to. Before he could react, a stick of fire was
thrown into his eyes, howling in intense pain.
Every cuss word escaped his lips as Jacob brushed the embers from his
eyes, knowing the girl was on the move, and could already feel the tendons throughout
this body light ablaze.
What the hell was it
with girls hurting him?
Snarling, Jacob took
several deep breaths, the burns already healing on his face, and decided
against phasing. He was slowly learning
how to control when he phased, knowing now wasn’t the time to do so. Walking out of the cave, groaning at the last
remaining burns on his face, knowing they would be healed before he caught up
to her.
“You know, we’re
already getting off on the wrong foot here.” He called, shaking his head,
sounding almost in disbelief as he gracefully hopped on the rocks that lead
down to the woods.
Kirstyn was dangling,
holding on for dear life to a rock, having slipped because her ankle gave out
while trying to run away. She tried
swinging her body back on the rocks, but it was no use, feeling her grip begin
to slip. She just had absolutely no luck
these days and groaned, her arms starting to tire out.
“Please help me!” She
cried out, trying not to panic because it wouldn’t do any good and could
possibly make her fall to her death.
Jacob heard that and
looked over the edge, slapping his face in exasperation. “Girl, what the hell
were you thinking?” He demanded, already reaching his hand down, hoping she
grasped it instead of fought him off.
Her life literally
hung in the ballets.
Kirstyn looked at the
hand and immediately grabbed it as tightly as she could; more tears sliding
down her face, hoping he was strong enough to pull her up. Jacob rolled his eyes, feeling her struggling
and, with one quick yank, thrust her up into his arms as they both landed back
on the rocks, her on top of him. Kirstyn
clung to him for dear life, breathing heavily; feeling as though her heart
would explode from how much relief flowed through her.
“T-Thank you…” She
stammered, scrambling to get off of her and blinked when he wrapped one strong
arm around her waist, keeping her there.
“You mind telling me
what the hell you were thinking back there?
You could’ve permanently messed my vision up with that stunt!” Jacob
growled, not meaning to sound angered, taking a few more deep breaths to calm
down.
Kirstyn bit her bottom
lip, trembling against him. “I-I’m sorry…p-please let me go…” She wasn’t above
pleading, knowing if this guy took her back to…him…she was done for. “Please, I
know he’s paying you a lot, but…”
“Whoa, whoa calm
down.” Jacob immediately stopped her, holding a hand up, and gently pushed her
away as he stood up before helping her to her feet. “I’m not taking you back
there.”
Kirstyn blinked, the
shock registering in her cobalt eyes, wondering if she should trust him.
“You’re…not?” Swallowing hard when he nodded, Kirstyn knew she made a terrible
mistake by attacking him the way she did. “I-I’m sorry about...”
“Don’t worry about
it.” Jacob replied gruffly, swiping her legs out beneath her, his hand
supporting her back as he carried her with ease back up to the cave. She weighed lighter than a feather; he could
possibly carry her with one pinky if it was possible.
“W-Who are you?” She
whispered, once they were back in the cave, the fire having slowly died down as
Jacob tossed another piece of wood on it.
Was the wolf a
dream? Did she honestly dream of this
man being a wolf and got them confused?
It was possible considering everything Kirstyn had been through the past
few months. She felt awful, but there
were no signs of burns on the man’s face, which was a blessing.
“Name’s Jacob
Black. Most call me Jake.” He answered,
settling down beside her, knees bending as he rested his elbows on them,
staring down at her. “Mind telling me who you are?”
“Kirstyn Ames.”
Jacob nodded with a
huff, finally having a full name, which would be extremely useful. “I suppose
you’re wondering why you’re here with me, Kirstyn.” He sounded amused, tossing
another piece of wood he’d gathered, the flames slowly coming back to life.
“I was actually
wondering what happened to the wolf I was with.” She said, deciding to be
honest, eyes fixated on the fire, remembering the warmth and comfort she felt
with the reddish brown animal.
Smirking, Jacob wondered
briefly if he should tell her that he was the wolf who saved her, deciding
against it. They would have to trek the
rest of the way to La Push, but it would definitely be worth it, until he
talked to Sam. Jacob knew he couldn’t
tell her about everything until he received permission from the alpha, silently
hating that stipulation.
“A wolf eh?” He
chuckled, leaning his head back against the cave wall, folding his arms in
front of his chest. “I’ve been called a lot of things in my time, but that’s
definitely a new one.”
Kirstyn blushed
furiously; feeling embarrassed, and wished she’d never said anything. “So I’ve
been with you all along then?” She asked reluctantly, lowering her eyes to the
ground, chewing her bottom lip. “You took me away from there?”
“Yes.” There was no
reason to lie to the girl, especially when her world was about to be tossed
upside down anyway. “Mind telling me about that?”
“I’d rather not.”
Jacob nodded; refusing
to push her into telling him the story, knowing it would eventually come
out. Emily could help with that,
deciding going back to La Push was the right decision. He knew if anyone could get through to this
girl it would be Emily.
“You’re safe now.” He
assured her, patting her shoulder as he stood up, stretching his arms in the
air, cracking his neck. “Rest for a little while longer then we’ll head out
again.”
“Where are you taking
me?” Kirstyn asked with a hint of fear evident in her voice, not very trusting
and rightfully so.
“Across the border,
need I say more?”
Kirstyn physically
relaxed and shook her head, deciding she would have to put faith into this man
who saved her, hoping she wasn’t falling into another trap.
Chapter 3
When Jared lost communication
with Jacob, he immediately went to find Sam, knowing Quil would be taking over
patrolling soon so he could rest. That
was the last thing on his mind though, especially after Jacob telling him he
was coming back to La Push early. That
was great news, but somehow Jared knew a price would be paid. He wasn’t coming alone and Jared had a
feeling it had something to do with that girl Jacob briefly mentioned.
Turning into human
form, Jared slipped his shorts on he always carried with him, like the others,
before racing to Emily’s place. Jacob
would be here shortly and Jared had to tell Sam before he arrived. Not that Sam was angry at Jacob for leaving
abruptly, he wasn’t and actually understood.
Paul, on the other hand, thought Jacob as a coward and betrayed the pack
by leaving.
After nearly ripping
the man’s throat out, Jared sincerely hoped Paul learned his lesson and kept
his mouth shut when Jacob finally did return.
“Hey Jarhead!”
Jared stopped dead in
his tracks and slowly turned around, feeling his jaw drop in shock. “Kay-Kay?”
He watched the biggest smile spread on her lips and immediately ran toward her,
not believing she was here.
Mikayla laughed as he
lifted her up and spun her around in circles, finally setting her down on her
feet. “And here I thought you forgot
about me.” She stated with a smirk, holding onto his arms since she was
somewhat afraid of heights.
“I could never forget
about you even if I tried.” Jared replied, slowly releasing her, beaming from
ear to ear. “What’re you doing here, Mika?”
“I decided I didn’t
like the L.A. scene as much as I thought I would.” Mikayla replied, chewing her
bottom lip.
She was a beautiful
woman with violet eyes and dark black hair with purple streaks throughout
it. Her skin was pale against Jared’s
russet, though she was tanned from the L.A. sun. Long, black eyelashes fanned against her
cheeks, black eyeliner outlining the violet orbs, clear gloss on her lips. She wore a simple blue jean skirt that went
two inches above the knee along with a black corset top that laced up the
front, two inch black Stilettos on her feet.
“You look great.”
Jared couldn’t help
admiring how long her legs were, wondering if they were as soft to the touch as
they looked. He’d always had a major
crush on Mikayla throughout school, even though she was two years older than
him. Mikayla graduated and left to
pursue a modeling career in Los Angeles, California.
He remembered how
broken he was when she left because she was his best friend, the only person he
could talk to about how he felt without being judged. Mikayla looked self-centered, but she
honestly had a heart of gold and kindred spirit. She was always looking to lend a helping
hand, refusing to be thought of as a bimbo just because she was blessed with
good genetics.
“You buffed up
yourself, Jarhead.” She laughed softly, the sound music to Jared’s ears, and
nudged him playfully with her shoulder. “You know you’ll never live that down
right?”
Jared smirked, eyes glinting
with mischief and lifted Mikayla up over his shoulder, being careful not to
expose her lower extremities. “Just like you won’t live down Kay-Kay.” He
laughed as she squirmed against him, finally sliding her down against his body
until her feet hit the sand. “So what are you really doing here, Mika?”
Mikayla sighed, for
once looking nervous, and grabbed Jared’s hand as their eyes locked. “I
transferred to a closer school up in Seattle.
I’m going for a medical degree.” She wasn’t sure how else to tell him,
without doing so, that she couldn’t stand being away from him.
“You’re giving up the
modeling?” Jared breathed a sigh of relief and hugged her close when Mikayla
nodded, kissing the top of her head. “Thank god because I have to tell you, I
hated the thought of you posing for Playboy or something like that.”
Mikayla laughed
softly, pulling back to stare in his dark eyes. “They offered me a job when I
was a senior and I turned them down.” Giggling followed when Jared’s eyes
widened to the size of saucers, Mikayla having to cover her mouth. “I didn’t
tell you that?”
“No you didn’t tell me
that!” Jared mocked in that high pitched voice that sent shivers down her
spine.
Of course, Jared was
oblivious to how Mikayla truly felt about him.
In his mind, he would never be good enough for a knockout beauty like
her. He had no idea just how deeply
Mikayla felt for him and it would take something major to prove it, especially
since he was the main reason she left Los Angeles. Mikayla loved him so much, it physically hurt
her to leave that day after graduation, remembering how badly she wanted to
tell her parents to turn around and take her back to Forks.
“Don’t act so
surprised, Jarhead. You know I hate
showing my body off. I have more respect
for myself than that.” Mikayla smiled, grabbing his hand as their fingers laced
together, blinking at how hot it was. “Jared, your hand…”
“What?” Jared was
confused at first, until he realized that Mikayla had no idea the changes that
happened while she was gone. “What about my hand?”
“It’s hot.” Mikayla
frowned, trying to take his hand again, but Jared kept pulling away. “Jared,
what’s going on?”
“Nothing.” He laughed
in that high pitched squeak, putting his hands behind his back. “It’s not that
hot.”
Mikayla frowned,
arching an eyebrow, folding her arms in front of her chest. “Jared, do I really
look that stupid to you?” She sighed, shouldering her purse; looking
unconvinced that something wasn’t right.
Jared sighed, holding
his hands out to her, suddenly looking tormented because he knew the alpha’s
word. He couldn’t tell her without
permission and the only person he could tell was the one he imprinted on.
“Mika, I want to tell you, but I can’t.” He didn’t know how else to say it,
watching her slowly back up.
“What do you mean you
can’t? I thought you could tell me
anything, Jared?” Mikayla sounded hurt, tears stinging her eyes, not wanting
them to fall. “Things really have changed here haven’t they?” It was more of a
statement than a question.
He could feel his
heart breaking as Jared went toward her, swallowing hard when Mikayla backed
up. “Mika please…” His voice grew raspy, stopping her before she could run off,
grabbing her arm and pulling her against him. “You can’t be mad at me for this. I’ll find a way to tell you. Just…don’t leave, at least not right now.”
Mikayla stared into
his dark eyes, sighing resignedly and wrapped her arms around his neck, hugging
him tightly. “You have a really high fever.” She murmured in his ear, having
studied enough medicine to know that much. “Do you feel alright?”
“I’m fine.” Jared
chuckled, holding her close, burying his face in the crook of her neck. This was his best friend and he was glad she
was back with him. “So are you living in Seattle then?”
“Yeah, I got a small
apartment in the dorms that fit with my scholarship.” She replied, running her
fingers through his soft black hair, knowing how much he loved feeling her
nails against his scalp. It always calmed
him down. “You’re welcome to visit me anytime.”
Jared pulled back,
staring into her eyes and suddenly, it felt as though the universe completely
halted. The earth stopped moving and
completely spun off its axel. Jared
couldn’t look at anything except the woman in his arms, her eyes penetrating
the depths of his soul. Nothing else
mattered to him and Jared knew exactly what happened, pressing his forehead
against hers.
He imprinted.
“Jared!” A voice
called behind them, disturbing the moment as he turned around, staring back at
Sam.
Jared mentally cursed,
completely forgetting to tell Sam about Jacob.
That’s how much of a distraction Mikayla was; even though he was happy
she was closer to La Push. He wanted to go
visit her in L.A. so many times, but figured she’d find a new life there.
“Sam, I was looking
for you…” Jared sighed when Sam’s eyes landed on Mikayla, knowing he would have
to talk with the alpha later. “This is…”
“Mikayla Robinson.”
Sam couldn’t believe she was back, remembering how much pain Jared went through
when she left to go to Los Angeles. “Isn’t this an unexpected surprise?”
“Believe me, it was.”
Jared chuckled uneasily, wrapping a protective arm around Mikayla’s shoulders.
“I was on my way to find you when she showed up. I got sidetracked.”
Sam arched an eyebrow,
wondering why Jared wanted to talk to him so urgently. “Well let’s talk then.”
He was testing Jared to see if he would put this woman over the pack, waiting
patiently.
Jared sighed with a
nod, looking down into Mikayla’s beautiful violet eyes. “Can we catch up
later?” He asked softly, running a finger down her cheek.
“Sure.” Mikayla
beamed, eyes sparkling and reached up to press a soft kiss to his cheek,
releasing his hand reluctantly. “Call me.”
“I will, be careful.”
He watched her salute with a snort and rolled his eyes, looking back at Sam
when she was out of earshot. “Okay I know what you’re going to say…”
“No, you really
don’t.” Sam raked a hand through his cropped black hair, sighing heavily.
“Let’s talk about it later, Jared. What
did you need me for?” He was all business now.
“Jacob is coming
back.” Jared blurted out, not sure how else to say it. “I talked to him briefly
and he’s bringing someone with him.”
“Is it that girl?” Sam
demanded, wondering if Jacob was still phased into wolf form, stroking his chin
in thought. “Did you find out anything about her?”
“Her name is
Kirstyn. That’s all I got before Jacob
ended communication.” Jared sighed, trying not to think about Mikayla, though
it would have to be discussed sooner or later. “He seemed worried…”
Sam nodded, relieved
to hear that Jacob was returning, though it was at a bad time considering Bella
and Edward’s wedding was the following day.
Of course Jacob knew that because of the invitation, but maybe he would
be distracted enough not to remember.
One could only hope as Sam walked back to Emily’s with Jared.
“So what do you think
is going on with this girl?” Jared asked, shoving his hands in the front
pockets of his jean shorts.
“I don’t know, but
something tells me it’s not good.” Sam replied, sitting down on the porch
steps, knowing Emily was out shopping at the local market in Forks. “Enough
about that, when were you planning to tell me about Mikayla?”
Jared’s eyes lowered
to the ground, clenching his fists, knowing Sam sensed what happened. “I
imprinted on her, I think.” He never experienced a connection as he did with
Mikayla, had from the moment he first met her.
Did that mean he
imprinted on her long ago and just didn’t realize it until now?
“You think or you know?”
Sam inquired, arching a slow eyebrow, looking back at his fellow pack member.
“If you’re not sure…”
“I’m sure.” Jared
sounded more confident, standing up from the porch steps, squaring his
shoulders. “It nearly killed me when she left, Sam. That was two years ago and, even though I was
just a sophomore, I knew I loved her.”
“I know.” Sam murmured
quietly, standing up as well, standing beside Jared as they both looked in the
woods. “I remember how broken you were.
I knew you imprinted on her long ago, but you hadn’t phased yet so I
couldn’t say anything.”
Jared blinked, slowly
looking up at Sam. “Why didn’t you tell me then after I did phase?” He
demanded, eyes narrowing slightly.
“Because you had
enough on your plate and she was gone.
There was no point in bringing it up because it would only hurt you.”
Sam answered calmly, refusing to get bent out of shape.
Though, now that
Mikayla was back, things were going to change.
“So does that mean I
can tell her about everything?”
Sam sighed; still debating
if that was such a good idea, considering Mikayla was a realist and didn’t have
an open mind like Emily. “If you truly feel that’s the best thing to do, then
you don’t even need my permission.” Sam already knew when one imprinted;
nothing else mattered or could stop them from telling the truth about what they
were.
“That’s why Jake
couldn’t tell Bella about it.” Jared finally understood, putting two and two
together, folding his arms in front of his chest. “Only if he imprinted on her
could he reveal the truth.”
“Well, Jacob is
different to begin with. Before he even
believed the legend was true, he already told her.”
Sam still didn’t like
the fact that Bella knew all about them and hurt Jacob, but there was nothing
that could be done to change it. She
chose the bloodsucker, Edward Cullen, over him and that was the reality of
things. He just hoped that when Jacob
did return, he put his focus into the pack instead of Bella Swan.
“What do you think
he’ll do when he comes back?” Jared asked quietly, hoping he didn’t hear any
more ridiculous ideas in Jacob’s head to win Bella back. It was sickening to hear and not able to stop
it unless he was in human form.
“I honestly don’t
know. We have to do everything we can to
keep him from attending the wedding though.”
Sam had already
decided Jacob couldn’t go, not unless he was completely over Bella and
accepting of the fact that she would be a bloodsucker soon. The treaty was still intact, though Sam hoped
the Cullens left Forks with Bella before changing her. He heard something about Bella not being
changed right away, though that was none of his business. He honestly didn’t care, just as long as
Jacob didn’t keep getting his heart slaughtered and handed back to him on a
platter.
“Are you gonna follow
through with the treaty if they do change her?”
Sighing heavily, Sam
shrugged his shoulders, honestly not knowing the answer to that question. “I
have no idea, Jared. We’re gonna have to
be open to the possibility of having to rip them apart though. I am the alpha so it’s ultimately my decision
on what we do.” He just wished he knew what the right thing to do was.
“I’d follow through
with the treaty, if they change her on these lands.” Jared stated and bolted
into the woods, knowing he had to finish his patrol so he could go catch up
with Mikayla.
“It’s not that easy,
Jared.” Sam whispered, stretching his arms in the air, and decided to go lay
down for a few before Emily got back. He
had to tell her about Jacob’s return, already knowing she would be cooking up a
feast for it.
As far as this girl
–Kirstyn- went; Sam wouldn’t judge her until he found out her story.
Chapter 4
“So carrying me for
miles on end does not bother you?” Kirstyn asked, leaning her head against
Jacob’s shoulder while he glided through the woods with ease.
“Nope, not in the
slightest.” Jacob smirked, amused with her question, never stopping the speed
he was going because they had lost precious time the moment he decided to
change into human form.
Kirstyn was still hesitant
about Jacob Black, wondering how he managed to find her in the woods of
Langley. He simply told her he’d been
traveling and saw she was in trouble.
Did that mean he followed her?
Kirstyn had to consider all the possibilities and threats, not knowing
who to trust anymore.
It would take time and
patience, but Jacob would gain Kirstyn’s trust if it was the last thing he
did. He didn’t want her being afraid of
him or put up a front. She was safe and
he’d do anything to protect her from harm.
Jacob didn’t understand this sudden need of fortification, but he wasn’t
going to question it either, especially since it got his mind off of his own
problems.
“So where are you
from?” Jacob asked, not even breaking a sweat, though Kirstyn was more
concerned about how hot his skin was.
She wasn’t complaining because he kept her from freezing.
“I’m not from Canada
if that’s what you’re asking.” Kirstyn said, staring straight ahead, aching to
feel the sun beating down on her skin, the warm air blowing through her
hair.
Jacob sighed, knowing
it was going to be like pulling teeth to get answers out of her. “Where are you
from then?” He pried; being careful not to let any of the tree branches hit
her, trying to show her through actions that he was here for protection, not to
hurt her.
“I’m from the states…”
Why did Jacob want to know her personal information? Kirstyn was feeling uneasy and Jacob somehow
sensed it because he dropped the subject. “Why won’t you tell me where we’re
going?”
Smirking, Jacob arched
an eyebrow down at her, stopping briefly. “The same reason you won’t tell me
where you’re from.” He then started running again, leaving her with that
thought.
He had a point,
Kirstyn admitted grudgingly, but she had every reason not to trust him. Then again, why should he trust her? She was the one who threw a stick of fire in
his face as an attempt to escape, only to nearly fall to her death. He saved her life twice, so why couldn’t she
trust and be honest with him?
“I’m from Texas.” She
whispered after while, not looking up at him, knowing he was probably wondering
how the hell she winded up in Canada. “Austin, Texas to be more specific.”
“Texas huh?” Jacob
didn’t expect to hear that, wondering why her skin was so pale if she lived in
the south. Of course that didn’t matter,
but he was mildly curious. “How did you end up all the way in Canada?”
Kirstyn sighed,
chewing her bottom lip thoughtfully. “Do you mind if I walk while we talk?” She
asked, needing to put distance between them because the story in itself made
her sick to her stomach. She didn’t want
to vomit all over him, deciding taking extra precaution was the right thing to
do.
“You do realize your
ankle is probably fractured from how much walking you’ve done on it?” Jacob
reminded her, refusing to let her walk on it, deciding the story could wait
until later. “If you don’t wanna tell me about it, you don’t have to, Kirstyn.”
His voice was soothing
and warm, something Kirstyn was not used to hearing, feeling even more
comfortable with him. What was it about
this man that made her feel safe and secure, like no harm could ever touch
her? She didn’t trust him fully, but
also couldn’t help feeling protected with a husky voice like his.
“It’s not that I don’t
want to…exactly…” She hesitated, chewing her thumbnail, something she did when
she was extremely nervous or knew danger was approaching. Somehow, Kirstyn knew danger wasn’t around
them, but what she was about to reveal made her incredibly apprehensive.
“You’re scared I’ll judge
you.” Jacob knew how she felt, remembering how nervous he was telling Bella he
loved her. He remembered her socking him
in the jaw, breaking her hand, and waited for that shard of pain to pierce his
heart.
Nothing happened
though.
No pain, no heartache,
absolutely nothing.
“It’s way more than
judgment, Jacob Black.” Kirstyn murmured, clasping her hands on her lap, taking
in another deep breath. “It’s more like putting your life in danger if I tell
you.”
Jacob couldn’t help
chuckling, wondering if she was serious, but then remembered she didn’t know
what he was…yet. She would find out
eventually; there were too many clues that proved he wasn’t a regular human
boy, a twenty four, seven fever being one of them. Not to mention Sam and the others would
probably have to tell her in order to protect her from whoever was pursuing
her. If they wanted her bad enough, they
would show up in La Push ultimately.
“First off, the name
is Jacob or Jake. Secondly, I already
know someone is after you because I heard them shout your name. And judging by the sound of the voice, it was
male.” He felt her cringe in his arms, sighing heavily, wishing she would just
tell him so they could come up with some sort of plan to help her.
La Push was about a
half an hour away and Jacob still had no idea if Sam knew he was coming
back. Knowing Jared and his big mouth,
there wasn’t a doubt, though it probably frustrated Sam that Jacob hadn’t
phased into a wolf to make contact with him.
Once Sam saw exactly why Jacob stayed human, he knew the alpha would
understand and may even be proud of him for keeping the secret.
Not that Jacob had a
choice.
“I’ll tell you, just
not right now.” She whispered, hoping Jacob dropped it for now, not wanting to
talk about what kind of trouble she was in.
Kirstyn needed a
distraction, something else to think about for once, instead of constantly
running for her life. This was the third
time she’d run away and it sucked, she hated living her life like this. Constantly running away with nowhere to go,
nowhere to hide, always being caught and drug back to her personal
prison…Kirstyn had enough and wanted it to end for good.
“Whatever you’ve been
through doesn’t change who you are.” Jacob stated, trying to assure her there
was no judgment to be made. “You can
trust me, but I know it will only take time before you do.”
“Thank you for
understanding, Jake.” Kirstyn sighed and snuggled further against him, the
warmth enveloping her body, forcing a yawn.
She was still exhausted, wishing for a real bed, even though Jacob was
comfortable by himself. “Do you mind if…”
“Go to sleep, we’ll be
there shortly.” Jacob cut her off, nodding as he picked up the pace, glancing
down at her briefly.
He had to keep his eye
on the prize, knowing when they arrived in La Push, all hell would break
loose. Suddenly, Jacob remembered what
the date was, eyes narrowing to slits, the wedding invitation flowing through
his mind. Edward basically begging him
to attend because Bella was too afraid to ask him…Jacob still hadn’t made a
decision if he was going or not. He
loved Bella, always would, but had to protect Kirstyn first and foremost. She became the center of his universe the
moment his eyes found her.
‘I don’t know what to do.’
He thought, wondering if Kirstyn would be opposed to attending the wedding with
him. She would be a reminder that he had
bigger things in his life to worry about instead of stopping Bella from
becoming a bloodsucker.
~!~
Has he phased yet?
No, I’ve been on patrol most of the day too. Paul grunted, rolling
his eyes as he let out a hacking cough, growling. While Jared was busy spending time with
Mikayla, he was stuck keeping watch for Jacob.
I still don’t understand what the big deal is. Leah stated, pacing
back and forth in front of Paul, her tail swinging hastily. I mean, he’s bringing a girl home with
him. Maybe she’s just another
bloodsucker lover.
Do you ever ONCE get tired of being a bitch, Leah? Paul wondered,
wondering how he’d gotten lucky to be stuck patrolling with her. Where’s Seth?
Who knows?
Probably sleeping or something. Leah honestly enjoyed annoying Paul
because it gave her something to do. You
hate patrolling with me, but you’ll have to deal with it because Sam is busy
with Emily and its Embry and Quil’s day off.
Maybe I should kill you and get it over with. Paul growled, watching
her grey fur stand up on edge, snorting. I
could take you down with one paw.
Is that right?
Then why don’t you prove it Paulie? Leah challenged, ready to have a
little rumble with one of the guys, needing to release some aggression.
If you two even think about fighting, I’ll make
sure you regret it. Sam’s voice boomed, stopping both of them in their tracks,
having been mere inches from trying to tear each other apart. You two have a job, remember?
Why don’t you go suck an egg? Leah spat, turning
abruptly and running through the woods, leaving both of them staring after her
retreating form.
Sam sighed, shaking
his head, the pure black fur sleek in the fading sunset. Any sign of Jacob? He asked, maintaining his professionalism,
though he decided he would be talking to Leah later on.
No, he should be here soon though. I wonder why he hasn’t phased…
Paul knew Sam kept
asking himself that question because, as far as they were all concerned, Jacob
had decided he was staying a wolf when he left La Push. He didn’t want to be human anymore, just
wanting to be an animal so he’d have constant distractions. Of course, with this girl popping up out of
nowhere, they both knew Jacob changed his mind…at least for the time being.
Keep watching.
Notify me the moment he arrives.
I’m going to talk to Leah. Sam didn’t care if Leah heard that,
knowing they had to have this out because it was getting out of hand.
Do you really think that’s a good idea? Paul sighed when Sam
just shot him a glare, lowering his head, knowing when the alpha spoke; he had
no choice but to listen.
Don’t worry about what I do. Just let me know when Jacob arrives. Sam took off running
through the woods, inhaling the air, smelling Leah’s scent. It was a faint mixture of jasmine and
vanilla, something he knew he’d never smell again. Though it was nothing compared to Emily’s
scent.
Oh my god, do you have to think about my cousin’s
smell around me? Leah growled, not believing Sam’s audacity to follow her,
sitting by a nearby stream. What do you
want, oh alpha one?
That’s enough Leah.
I came to talk to you about your attitude lately. Sam stated, trying to
inject authority into his voice, but it was no use. Leah had always been one of his weaknesses
and she knew it, using it to her advantage on more than one occasion.
I don’t have an attitude anymore than usual, Sam. Leah stated, licking
her paw before plopping down on the ground, resting her head on the pile of
leaves. I want to be alone.
You do realize you still have a job to do with Paul
right? Sam was getting fed up already, digging his claws into the earth, the air
so thick with tension it couldn’t be cut with the sharpest knife.
I doubt Paul needs help patrolling these woods,
especially since the only bloodsuckers around are the Cullens. Leah snorted, rolling
her eyes, wondering if Sam was serious. You
honestly want me to go patrolling with him?
Yes and while you’re at it, I want you to change
your attitude toward me.
Oh I’m so sorry, Sammy, but you’ve mistaken me for
someone who gives a damn what you want. Leah refused to back down, still
bitter over how Sam left her for her cousin, snarling at the mere thought of
them one day getting married and having babies.
A life she should’ve
had with him, not Emily.
Leah, I’m warning you…
Look, you know I hate you for hurting me, but I
have to deal with being around you. So
I’ll make you a deal. You stop ordering
me around so much and I’ll think about letting up on the guilt. Leah didn’t wait for
him to answer, just turned and began walking away, howling when she was tackled
moments later.
You’re right about one thing, Leah. It is hard having you in the pack and I wish
you weren’t so I didn’t have to constantly feel guilty over something that is
out of my control! Sam snarled, having pinned her to the forest, holding her
paws with his own, eyes blackened with anger. I think it would be best if you left the pack and found your own way.
Leah could already
feel the pain coursing through her and it shined in her eyes, staring up at who
used to be the love of her life. Fine,
I’ll talk to Seth about it. You know
damn well wherever he goes, I go, regardless of what you say, Sam.
Fair enough, just keep away from me or I will rip
you apart. Sam growled, releasing her abruptly, backing away before he
ended up doing it anyway.
Leah lit his blood on
fire in ways no other woman could and not in a good way. He still loved her, but the imprinting
refused to let them be together. He
couldn’t live without Emily, he could live without Leah. That was the difference, but that didn’t change
how he still felt for Leah, though she didn’t understand.
If you loved me, you would be with me and not her. Leah murmured, all the
anger drained from her thoughts currently, a soft whine escaping her muzzle. I’m doing the best I can, Sam. You hurt me when you chose her.
It’s out of my control.
So you keep saying, but is it really? Maybe you always did love her and was just
using me to get to her. Leah always believed that and nothing would change
her mind. Just leave me alone, Sam. You made your decision and I’ll eventually
get over it.
Sam knew there was no
point in arguing with her about it, simply nodding, turning and heading back to
La Push. Why did it hurt so much every
time he talked to her? He loved Emily
with everything inside of him and more, but Sam also hated the fact he had to
hurt Leah in the process of his own happiness.
It was selfish and inconsiderate, but Sam couldn’t help who he truly
fell in love with, who he truly imprinted on.
It was out of his control.
Jacob’s back.
All thoughts of Leah
vanished as Sam ran through the woods, phasing halfway through because he knew
Jacob wouldn’t be in wolf form.
Chapter 5
When Sam arrived,
Jared and Paul were waiting for him, both pointing toward Emily’s place. He nodded and headed in that direction, both
following, with Embry and Quil joining moments later. Seth and Leah were at home with their mother,
which was fine. The house would be
packed enough, especially with this visitor of Jacob’s.
“Em?” Sam called,
walking inside and stopped at the sight of Jacob.
His black hair was a
little shaggier than usual, due to the fact he hadn’t had a haircut in nearly
two months. He had dark circles beneath
his eyes from lack of sleep, though he didn’t look too worse for the wear. His eyes moved from Jacob to the petite girl
with chestnut locks that went to the middle of her back. She was currently sipping a cup of tea Emily
made for her and eating a muffin.
“Hey sweetie.” Emily
greeted with a smile, walking over and kissing Sam’s lips softly. “So this is
what you’ve been hiding from me.”
Sam chuckled
sheepishly, turning somewhat red. “You’re not mad?” He asked, sighing with
relief when she simply shook her head, walking back over to the girl.
“Welcome home Jake.”
Jared grinned, laughing when Embry and Quil tackled him to the floor. Sam couldn’t help laughing, though Paul stood
there stone faced, flat out refusing to being jubilant over Jacob’s return.
“You finished being a
coward?” Paul demanded, grunting when Emily elbowed him with a glare, warning
him silently to keep his mouth shut. He knew
if he didn’t, Emily wouldn’t feed him so Paul simply excused himself and walked
outside for some air.
“Okay guys enough.”
Jacob grunted, shoving Embry and Quil away playfully, rising to his feet only
to face Sam, arms at his sides. “Hey Sam.”
Sam looked back at
Jacob hardening for a few moments, almost scrutinizing him, and finally yanked
the boy into his arms for a tight hug. “Welcome back.” He murmured, slapping
Jacob on the back, and released him. “Are you okay?”
“Yeah, I’m fine.”
Jacob assured him, knowing exactly what he meant, and looked down at Kirstyn
with a deep breath. “Kirstyn, this is Sam Uley.
He’s a…friend of mine and boss of sorts.” He watched Sam’s expression,
which was perfectly calm, and sighed with inner relief.
“Hi.” Kirstyn murmured
shyly, staring down at the plate, setting the muffin down slowly.
Sam looked over at
Jacob, immediately noticing the protectiveness he had, raising a slow
eyebrow. If he felt this strongly about
the girl, maybe that was a good sign that Jacob was forgetting about Bella
Swan. It seemed as though Jacob was
fine, no longer moping around looking like a lost puppy, which is what Sam
hoped for while he was away from La Push.
“Hello Kirstyn.” Sam
said gently, bending down to be eye level with her, extending his hand. “It’s
nice to meet you. I’m sure you’ve met
Emily.”
Kirstyn nodded,
hesitantly slipping her small hand in his much larger one, swallowing
hard. Sam instantly noticed how nervous
the girl was, curious about her story.
However, one look in Jacob’s eyes told him she wasn’t coming out with it
easily. They would have to take time
with Kirstyn, make her feel as comfortable as possible, and let her come out
with it when she was ready.
“Of course she has.”
Emily grinned, walking over and wrapped her arm around Kirstyn’s shoulders,
smiling warmly. “You can’t imagine my surprise when Jake showed up at my door
with her. I treated her ankle and it
should be good as new in a few days.”
“Her ankle?” Sam
raised an eyebrow, eyes moving from Kirstyn’s face to her wrapped ankle,
wondering what happened.
“She tripped and fell
over something in the woods.” Jacob said, remembering watching her do so. If she was injured prior, she was a hell of
an actress because she could run pretty fast.
“I’m a klutz.” Kirstyn
muttered, causing everyone to laugh.
“Hey she has a sense
of humor; she’s cool in my book.” Jared said with a smile, his high pitched
voice causing her eyes to widen slightly. “I’m Jared, by the way.” He extended
his hand and immediately pulled back when Jacob placed a hand on his shoulder.
Jacob didn’t want her
to have too much exposure to the guys, knowing the more testosterone she saw,
the more fear she would feel.
“I’m Quil.”
“Embry.” He waved with
a smile, everyone knowing they had to be as friendly as possible, even though
the only sour one of the bunch was currently Paul and Leah.
“It’s nice to meet all
of you.” Kirstyn said, truly meaning it, though she was staying close to
Emily. She trusted women more than men,
for obvious reasons, swallowing past a lump in her throat.
Emily was easy to get
along with, a complete sweetheart with a kind spirit, knowing she would be the
one to break through Kirstyn’s barriers.
Without even needing to ask, Emily knew that’s what Jacob wanted her to
do. She simply poured her some more
water, knowing the girl was suffering from severe malnutrition and lack of
sleep.
“Don’t worry
honey. You’re safe here, nobody will
hurt you.” She assured Kirstyn, who simply nodded, chomping on more of the
banana nut muffin. “Sam, she’s going to stay with us for a few days. Jake, I already have your room made up.” She
smiled when a look of sheer relief flooded his face, knowing he wouldn’t want
to be away from Kirstyn.
“A-Are you sure? I-I don’t want to impose…”
“Nonsense!” Emily
waved her off dismissively with a sweet smile, standing up, seeing Sam nod his
head in agreement. If they were going to
help this girl, they had to gain her trust first and having her stay with them was
the safest place in La Push anyway. “We’ll go grab you some clothes at the
local market tonight while Jacob goes out with the guys. It’ll be fun!”
Jacob looked
apprehensive, wanting to go with them, but one look from Emily told him not to
argue or fight this. He decided to
listen, seeing the sun was setting on the horizon. “I have some place to go
anyway.” He said, knowing he could trust Kirstyn with Emily.
“Will you be back?”
Kirstyn instantly looked at Jacob, not wanting to leave his side, not feeling
safe and secure without him around her.
Jacob smiled and
walked over, bending down as he ran a finger down her cheek. “I promise,
Kir. I just have to go visit a friend of
mine for a little while.” He ignored the look Sam shot him, his eyes only for Kirstyn.
“I won’t be more than a few hours at most.”
Kirstyn knew she was
being silly, having said she didn’t trust him, but he did save her life twice
so there had to be some sort of bond between them. “Okay, hurry back.” She
whispered, hugging him tightly around the neck, reluctantly releasing him when
he stood up to over six foot frame.
“Take care of her,
Em. Not that you need to be told that.”
Jacob smirked when she rolled her eyes, kissing her forehead as a silent thank
you, and walked out of the house.
“Jake, wait up!” Sam
called, following him out the door, watching him slowly stop to turn to face
them. “You’re not seriously
considering…”
“I have to go.” Jacob
was determined to put the past behind him, closing his eyes briefly,
remembering what he told Bella. “I told her we could still be friends. As a friend, I can’t miss the most important
day of her life, even if it is to a bloodsucker.”
“Jake…I don’t think
that’s a good idea, man.” Jared said, walking over to him, sighing heavily when
Jacob started becoming stubborn. “If you’re going, then you’re not going
alone.”
Sam nodded, accepting
that compromise. “If you agree to take a few of us with you, then you can go,
Jake.” He stated, folding his arms in front of his chest, watching Jacob’s face
carefully.
Annoyance registered
in Jacob’s face, though he knew he couldn’t deny the alpha once an order was
made. “Fine, who wants to come along?” He demanded gruffly, looking toward the
door when it opened, Emily walking out with a black and white suit.
“It is a wedding after
all…”
“How am I supposed to
carry all of that?” Jacob demanded, walking over and taking it, seeing the look
in her eyes with a sigh. “You want me to walk or drive there?”
Emily nodded, ignoring
Sam’s baffled look, wondering what else she knew that he didn’t. Jacob waited for Emily to walk back inside
before tossing the clownish looking jacket to the side. He ripped the sleeves off of the white dress
shirt, slipping it on, leaving the top three buttons undone. He slipped the black dress pants on along
with shoes, knowing he had to look somewhat decent for Bella’s wedding.
“Any of you can come,
but you stay in the woods unless I need you.” Jacob stated, looking at Sam
particularly. “I want to try doing this alone.”
“Fine, but we’ll be
there if you decide to trash the wedding or something to that effect.”
Jacob nodded, running
his fingers through his long hair, sighing heavily. He snatched a pair of rusty shears from the
bench, cropping it short again, the way Bella was used to before tossing them
to the side. “Okay I’m ready now.” He
nodded, looking into the woods, knowing he was making a huge sacrifice by
coming, but also knew this would mean the world to Bella.
Jared, Paul, Sam, Quil
and Embry all followed suit, keeping their respective distance, already knowing
Seth was at the Cullen wedding. He
became friends with them when the pack and bloodsuckers had to team up to save
Bella from Victoria’s gang of newborns.
Sam didn’t mind the Cullens, though he couldn’t stand Bella Swan,
especially with all the hurt she’d caused Jacob.
It was a good thing
none of them were phased or else Jacob would’ve snapped, no doubt about it. His
focus was solely on going to this wedding, having a dance with the bride, and
leaving without a trace. He had to at
least see Bella one more time before she became a bloodsucker, before she died
and no longer carried a heartbeat. Jacob
didn’t know why he was doing this, except the simple fact that he had a promise
to keep to Bella, even if it was killing him on the inside.
Honestly though, it
wasn’t as hard for Jacob as he originally thought.
“Thank you for
coming. This is very kind of you.”
Edward’s voice sounded, Jacob standing in the shadows, and he could see Bella
in a beautiful satin white dress. He’d
missed the wedding, but at least he was showing up at all, especially with
everything that transpired between them.
“Hey Bells.” Jacob
greeted huskily, causing her hand to fly to her throat, tears swelling in her
big chocolate brown eyes.
“Jake? Oh Jake!” Edward released her arm as soon as
Jacob grabbed her, her face instantly burying in his chest, not believing he
was here at her wedding reception. “Oh
Jake, this is perfect!”
Jacob nodded, immediately
taking her hand in his, wrapping an arm around her waist as they began to
dance. Edward was giving them this
moment alone, which Jacob grudgingly appreciated. He knew this would be the last time he saw
Bella like this with chocolate brown eyes, rosy cheeks and a beautiful smile
that lit up the world. She was human and
he would always remember her like this after she died, which Jacob still wasn’t
fully prepared for.
They talked while they
danced, Jacob mostly telling her about his trip to Canada, though he refused to
mention Kirstyn. It was none of Bella’s
business; he wasn’t here to talk about his past two months of hell and
torment. He wasn’t here to make the bride
feel guilty either, even though she kept apologizing for hurting him.
Jacob finally stopped
her, kissing her forehead, showing her that everything was alright. He changed the subject, asking her when she
was going to die, to which Bella stomped on his foot as hard as she could. Jacob didn’t feel it and chuckled, keeping
her in his arms, rolling his eyes playfully.
However, the
playfulness faded when Bella told him that she was going to have a real
honeymoon with Edward…as a human. Was he
out of his mind?! Jacob didn’t realize
what he was doing, how hard he was squeezing Bella, but the next moment he was
shoved away from her, Edward standing in front of her hissing.
“You’ll kill her…”
Jacob snarled, watching the brief torment wash over Edward’s features, seeing
the bloodsucker didn’t want to do it…at least not while she was human.
“It’s none of your
business, Jake!” Bella spat angrily, holding Edward back by the arm, tears
forming in her eyes. “It’s my life, not yours!”
“So you’ll allow him
to kill you for a little pleasure?!” Jacob was beside himself and could feel
every tendon in his body erupt in flames, Sam and the others already in front
of him.
“Jake, enough!” Sam
ordered, but it was too late as the man jumped in the air, landing on all fours
moments later, russet colored hair standing up as another snarl erupted from
Jake’s muzzle. “Jake!”
“There’s nothing you
can do about it, Jacob! This is what I
want and this is what’s going to happen!
You should’ve never come here!
You should’ve stayed away!” Bella was angry, but meant every word she
said, eyes narrowed to slits.
Sam heard enough and
turned on Bella, his own eyes narrowed. “Bella, as much as this boy has done
for you, you don’t deserve to have him in your life. When your ‘husband’ left you high and dry,
Jacob was the one who picked up the pieces and put you back together! Only for you to turn around and go right back
to the man who shattered you in the first place! Now, I’ve kept my mouth shut about this, but
I refuse to let you stand there and make him feel even worse than what he
already does. You’ve already broken him,
bloodsucking bitch, what more do you want?!”
“That’s enough!”
Edward hissed angrily, golden eyes nothing more than black holes at the moment.
“I should’ve never sent that letter to him.
I knew he would try ruining our day.”
“No, you just wanted
to rub it in that you won and Jacob lost.” Jared snapped, watching as Seth
looked back and forth between the pack and Cullens, not sure who to choose. “Go
ahead Seth, be their little mutt! At
least Jacob was a man about it instead of sending a letter gloating about
winning.”
“Edward…”
“I didn’t do it for
that purpose.” Edward insisted, wrapping a protective arm around his wife’s
waist. “I did it because I wanted Jacob to be here for her. I know she still loves him…”
“Oh bullshit! She doesn’t love him, she only loves the fact
that she can use and take advantage of him whenever it’s necessary! That’s not going to happen anymore
Bella. You won’t be seeing him again if
I can help it.” Sam vowed, knowing this would happen if Jacob showed up,
knowing he probably was having a relapse of the progress he made when he first
left La Push. “I’ll be damned if you push him out of the place he loves
again. Oh and just so you know,
bloodsucker, if you DO change her while you’re on the lands, we will attack and
rip every single one of you to shreds!”
With that said, Sam
and the others disappeared into the woods, leaving Bella standing there in
shock with her husband.
Chapter 6
After the pack left, Emily
did as she said and took Kirstyn into Forks to a nearby store. It was like a Wal-Mart except much smaller,
but carried everything she would need.
On the way to the store, Emily decided to try to pry some information
out of Kirstyn, but the girl wasn’t budging.
The most Emily got out of her was her age, which was surprisingly
eighteen.
“So where are you
from?” Emily asked, stopping at a red light, frowning when Kirstyn simply
lowered her eyes.
“Texas.” She
whispered, feeling tears prick her eyes, honestly not wanting to talk about it.
“I haven’t been there in a long time.”
“I’m sorry for asking
sweetie, I won’t pry anymore.” She said, smiling when Kirstyn wiped her tears
away, trying to be brave.
Whatever this girl
went through was horrific, especially since the mere question sent Kirstyn into
tears. Emily sighed and reached over,
taking her hand and giving it a gentle squeeze.
She would have to make a mental note of this reaction, knowing Sam was
going to start grilling Kirstyn for information if he wasn’t warned soon.
“No, I need to talk
about it.” Kirstyn just didn’t know who she could trust with her story,
wondering if anyone would believe her.
It sounded unbelievable to her sometimes, but it actually happened. “For
some reason, I know I can trust you Emily.”
Emily smiled, her
heart warming at those words. “I know you don’t know me very well, but I
promise you that whatever you tell me, it will be strictly between us.” As hard
as it would be to keep that promise, Emily would do it because she didn’t want
Kirstyn feeling like she couldn’t trust her.
“Thank you, Emily.”
She whispered, eyes moving to stare out the window, clasping her hands in her
lap. How she ever managed to be blessed
with these people, Kirstyn would never know and wasn’t going to question it.
“I’ll tell you what
we’ll do. Let’s do the shopping thing
and get you everything you need. Then
we’ll go back to my place, make something to eat, and then we can sit down and
talk.” Emily suggested, wanting to make this as easy as possible for Kirstyn.
“We can even slip into our pajamas and make it a slumber party type thing.”
Kirstyn couldn’t help
laughing softly, the first sign of life, though Emily could still tell there
was sadness hidden within it. “I’ve never been to a slumber party before.” She
admitted sheepishly, big blue eyes full of melancholy and longing.
“Well that settles
it! We’re having a slumber party
tonight, just the two of us. We’ll make
snacks; maybe even rent a few movies.
Sam and Jake can stay at his dad’s place for the night.” Emily smirked,
knowing Sam wouldn’t like it, but it was technically her house and she could
kick him out if she wanted.
Kirstyn smiled
genuinely, eyes sparkling with delight and excitement. She couldn’t remember the last time she felt
like this, honestly wondering if tonight would be best to tell Emily what
happened to her. Deciding to just let
fate take its course, Kirstyn leaned back in the seat as Emily drove toward the
store. If the subject surfaced that
night, then she would talk about it.
Parking the truck,
Emily slid out and walked inside with Kirstyn, not giving her a budget,
assuring her to get whatever she wanted and needed. Kirstyn promised not to go overboard and started
at the clothes section, grabbing panties, bras, socks, shirts –long and short
sleeved, a few of them with designs on them that she liked-, jeans, pajamas
–nightgowns, pants and shorts sets with tank tops-, a thick blue robe with
matching slippers, several pairs of shoes and even a pair of boots –Emily
insisted due to the fact they were still experiencing snowfall- and even a few
dresses that went past the knee. After
the clothes came accessories and Emily loaded Kirstyn up with ponytail holders,
barrettes, hairbrush, comb, hair dryer, makeup –Kirstyn rarely wore it, but
Emily had insisted so she wasn’t going to argue-, lotion, shampoo and
conditioner, body wash, razors, perfume and anything else Kirstyn needed.
They ended up with two
carts full of stuff for Kirstyn, who felt extremely bad, deciding she would
find a way to pay Emily back for everything.
She hated feeling like a charity case, though at the moment, Kirstyn
needed everything she picked out…mostly.
Emily loved to shop so she picked out most of the accessories and items
that weren’t essential to surviving.
In Emily’s mind,
Kirstyn deserved all of this and more, a big smile on her face. It was a good thing she never splurged and
balanced her finances well or else this wouldn’t have been possible to do. Emily was happy to do it for Kirstyn, having
a feeling she would be sticking around La Push for some time to come,
especially if what Sam told her about Jacob was true.
While Kirstyn loaded
everything on the conveyor belt, ignoring the disdain in the cashier’s eyes,
someone tapped Emily’s shoulder while she was sifting through a gossip
magazine. When she looked up, Mikayla
was standing there with a big smile on her face. Emily hardly knew the woman, but already
they’d become friends, not believing a word Sam said about her.
“Hey Mika, what’s up?”
Emily grinned, placing the magazine back on the rack.
“Oh nothing, I just
spotted you and thought I’d say hi.” Mikayla looked over Emily’s shoulder, eyes
widening at all the items she was purchasing. “Whoa, someone went on a shopping
spree!”
Emily laughed,
shrugging her shoulders modestly. “It’s not for me.” She gestured toward
Kirstyn, who was still busy loading her clothes up on the belt.
“I’m so sorry about
this.” Kirstyn whispered to the cashier, who smiled and waved her off
dismissively.
“Who is she?” Mikayla
asked, mildly interested, raising a slow eyebrow as something tugged at her
memories. This girl looked awfully
familiar, but Mikayla couldn’t figure out why.
“A girl Jacob Black brought
home from his vacation.” Emily refused to go into detail about why Jacob really
left, especially since she didn’t know Mikayla that well. She didn’t even know about the guys being
shape shifters so Emily had to be VERY careful how she answered questions. “Her
name is Kirstyn.”
“Yes?”
Emily laughed when the
girl looked up, staring at both of them questioningly. “Nothing sweetie, Mika
just wanted to know what your name was.
Mika, Kirstyn. Kirstyn, this is
Mikayla Robinson.”
Mikayla smiled warmly,
extending her hand, frowning when the girl didn’t reciprocate the motion. She was frozen solid, which worried Emily as
she rushed over, trying to shake her out of the shell shock state. Mikayla stared into the girl’s blue eyes,
something tugging at her mind further, eyes narrowing slightly.
“Do I…know you?”
Mikayla asked hesitantly, watching Kirstyn’s eyes grow to the size of saucers.
“Kirstyn…what’s your last name?”
Emily blinked,
watching as Kirstyn moved almost robotically toward Mikayla, their eyes never
leaving each other’s. “Uh…Kirstyn honey?” She wasn’t listening and this worried
Emily to no avail, wondering if Mikayla had something to do with this girl’s
past, frowning deeper. “Mikayla…”
“Mikayla Robinson.” Kirstyn
repeated, biting her bottom lip, tears already sliding down her cheeks,
covering her mouth with her hand “Oh my god, I never thought…”
Mikayla became scared
now, along with Emily, staring down at this girl who obviously recognized her
somehow. “Yes that’s me. Who are
you? Do you know me from somewhere?” She
was very confused and looked up at Emily for some kind of help, trying to
ignore that tugging of her memories. It
was annoying her.
“I suppose I
understand why you don’t remember me.” Kirstyn laughed tearfully, not able to
help it, wondering if this was really her.
Was this her best friend from Texas she used to spend her summers
with? “I know this is going to sound
really forward and strange, but did you ever visit Austin, Texas?”
It was almost as if a
light bulb went off in Mikayla’s head as she dropped her cup of coffee, not
minding that it splattered all over. Thankful she was wearing dark jeans
instead of her usual skirts, Mikayla stared back at Kirstyn in shock. Now Emily was really confused as she paid for
the items, loading the bags into the carts, wondering what the hell was going
on.
“It can’t be…” Mikayla
blinked and felt huge tears slide down her cheeks, feeling as though her heart
would leap out of her chest at any moment and land in front of her. “Oh my god,
Kirstyn Ames?”
Kirstyn felt her knees
give out, hitting the hard floor of the store, honestly not caring who saw
her. She couldn’t believe this was
happening and felt Mikayla grab her hand, pulling her back up on weakened
knees. Where was Jacob when she needed
him? Especially since her ankle was
throbbing since she’d landed on it wrong again.
“Kirstyn, are you
okay?” Emily was by her side in a heartbeat, staring at Mikayla through
narrowed eyes, wondering just how the hell these two knew each other. She would definitely been notifying Sam about
this, trying to snap Kirstyn out of her dazed state. “Okay Mikayla, you have
five seconds to tell me how you know each other.”
“Not here.” Kirstyn
whispered, still alert enough to hear the threat in Emily’s voice, her eyes
never leaving Mikayla. “Come back to the house with us.”
“You’re staying with
Emily?” Mikayla blinked, wondering how thick this plot would become.
She hadn’t seen
Kirstyn since she was fourteen years old, Mikayla sixteen. She was two years older. Mikayla was now twenty and felt as though she
lived inside a forty year olds body.
“Please come with.”
Kirstyn begged, already feeling Emily guide her away, sighing with relief when
Mikayla instantly nodded.
“I’ll follow you guys
over.” Mikayla wasn’t about to walk away from her childhood best friend,
wondering how she ended up in La Push, Washington all the way from Texas.
Something told her the
reasoning would turn her stomach, already feeling it churning.
Emily honestly didn’t
know what to say to Kirstyn was they loaded the bags into the back of the
truck, knowing Sam would have an absolute field day with this. Mikayla knew Kirstyn, but did it have
anything to do with why Kirstyn was running for her life? Somehow, Emily had a feeling their past went
deeper than what was going on right now because Mikayla seemed genuinely
shocked to see Kirstyn again.
They slid into the
truck and drove back to La Push, neither saying a word, each in their own
thoughts. Kirstyn couldn’t believe
Mikayla was here. She hadn’t seen her
since her last summer spent in Texas when she was fourteen years old. Her eyes closed, remembering the last time she
saw Mikayla, tears already stinging behind the closed lids…
~!~
“I can’t stay long.”
Mikayla raised a slow eyebrow, wondering what was
going on with her best friend, taking a step toward her. “Kir, what’s wrong
honey?” Her eyes widened in alarm at the sight of the huge tears in Kirstyn’s
eyes.
Kirstyn shook her head, trying to blink the tears
back. “I’m leaving tomorrow. Something
came up with my…mom.” She tried not to shudder at the word, but Mikayla caught
it.
“Kirstyn, what happened?” Mikayla frowned when she
backed up, sighing heavily. “I can’t help you if you don’t tell me what’s wrong
honey.”
“I don’t wanna talk about it.” Kirstyn twirled a
strand of chestnut hair around her finger, chewing her bottom lip
nervously. She didn’t look fourteen,
more like someone who was going to the electric chair. “Can we just go shopping
and forget about this?”
As hard as it was, Mikayla nodded, wrapping an arm
around Kirstyn’s shoulders. “Why are you leaving tomorrow?” She asked, trying
to pry at least a little more information out of her best friend.
“I don’t wanna talk about it.” Kirstyn was stubborn
when she wanted to be, walking away from Mikayla as they hopped on their bikes,
heading downtown to the nearby bookstore.
Before they could leave, however, Kirstyn’s mom
pulled up in a white SUV, her sparkling white teeth flashing. “Get in the car
now, Kirstyn.” She ordered in a deceptively sweet voice. “Now.”
Kirstyn cursed under her breath, looking back at
Mikayla, tears forming in her eyes. “Just let me say goodbye.” She mumbled,
getting off of her bike.
“NOW!”
Not listening, Kirstyn rushed over to Mikayla,
tossing her arms around her neck, swallowing hard. “Don’t forget me.” She
whispered, placing a rose charm in her hand. “Sisters forever.”
Mikayla watched, dumbfounded, as Kirstyn climbed
into her mother’s car and watched it drive away down the street. She looked down at the charm, seeing it was a
simple red rose with black thorns surrounding it. Tears formed in her eyes as Mikayla clipped
it to her necklace with the other charms.
That was the last time Kirstyn and Mikayla saw each
other.
~!~
“Sisters forever…”
Mikayla whispered, driving down the road heading to Emily’s, fingering the
charm around her neck.
She never took it off,
not once, still not believing after all this time she’d found Kirstyn. It was almost as if the girl vanished off the
face of the planet after that day.
Mikayla spent the remaining two years wondering about her, always hoping
she would show up during the summers to stay with her grandfather.
It wasn’t until after
Kirstyn left that Mikayla found out Grandpa Niles had died of a heart attack.
Mikayla found it
strange when she went to the funeral, not spotting Kirstyn or her mother,
Sandra, anywhere. It was surreal because
Kirstyn adored her grandfather, who always treated her well and even took them
out for ice cream. He treated Mikayla
like his own granddaughter and to this day she still missed him.
There were so many
questions Mikayla was dying to ask Kirstyn, the first being where the hell
she’d been all this time. Why wasn’t she
at her grandfather’s funeral? What
happened to her mother? Mikayla thought
Kirstyn had been dead all this time, after rumors began circulating throughout
Austin that she’d been killed in a horrible car accident. There was never an obituary printed, though
Mikayla felt in her heart the rumors were true.
She was happy to know
she’d been wrong all this time, but now it was time for answers. There was something going on with Kirstyn the
last time they saw each other, remembering the amount of fear in her best
friend’s eyes. Kirstyn kept saying she
didn’t want to talk about it, just wanting to hang out. That always haunted the back of Mikayla’s
mind, especially how her mother looked that final day. Diamonds sparkled on her fingers; her hair bleached
blonde, nails too long to function properly.
She looked like
trailer trash.
After all this time,
Mikayla was finally going to know the truth about what really happened to
Kirstyn that day, knowing she was the only one who could get through to her
long lost best friend.
Chapter 7
“Whoa, did you buy the
whole store?” Sam demanded when the girls walked in, blinking at all the bags,
seeing Emily shrug her shoulders.
Just by the way her
shoulders were tensed, Sam knew something happened. He looked up when Mikayla walked in the door
moments later, arching an eyebrow. He
watched Kirstyn instantly go to Mikayla’s side, folding his arms in front of
his chest.
“What’s going on?”
“I can honestly say I
have no idea.” Emily replied, sounding more confused than ever, setting the
bags to the side. “Apparently they know each other.”
Sam blinked just as
Jared walked out of the bathroom, stopping at the sight of Mikayla, grinning
from ear to ear. Though the grin instantly
faded when Mikayla wrapped a protective arm around Kirstyn’s shoulders,
eyebrows furrowing. He had the same
expression that Sam and Emily had on their faces, wondering how this happened.
“Where have you been
all this time Kirstyn?” Mikayla demanded, placing her hands on her shoulders,
swallowing past the tears that were already stinging her violet eyes. “Y-You
have no idea what I thought…”
“I know.” Kirstyn
whispered, blinking the tears began once more, not able to stop them. “I’ll
tell you everything, I promise Kayla.”
“Kayla?” Jared blurted
out, not expecting to hear that, looking from the chestnut haired girl to
Mikayla, dark eyes silently full of questions.
“You’d better or I’ll
kick your ass.” Mikayla stated, wiping her tears away, hugging Kirstyn close,
letting out a shaky sigh. “And yes, Jarhead, Kayla is my nickname for her.”
“How do you KNOW each
other?” Sam couldn’t help asking, wrapping an arm around Emily’s shoulders.
“Have you been to La Push before, Kirstyn?”
“No.” Kirstyn knew she
would have to tell the story, looking up at her best friend, both of them
walking over to sit at the kitchen table. “We’ve known each other nearly all of
our lives.”
“Since I was at least
five years old. You were three, I
think. Somewhere around there.” Mikayla
barely remembered meeting Kirstyn because they were so young. “We practically
grew up together during the summers in Texas.”
“Wait, I thought you
were raised here?” Jared arched an eyebrow, never knowing Mikayla lived
anywhere else besides Washington all of her life.
“I moved here shortly
after my sixteenth birthday. Kirstyn
left a few days after and my parents decided to move me here.” Mikayla
remembered that day well, how her heart broke because they left right after
attending Grandpa Niles’s funeral.
Kirstyn was trying to
keep her emotions in check, swallowing hard, remembering how her mother refused
to let her attend her grandfather’s funeral.
They had more ‘important business’ to attend too. Kirstyn balled her fists up tightly and snapped
her head up when the door swung open, the sight of Jacob making it easier to
breathe.
“Are you okay?” Sam
demanded, remembering how Jacob lost it earlier at Bella’s wedding, eyes
narrowed slightly.
Jacob nodded, his eyes
moving to Kirstyn, having been worried about her ever since he left to attend
Bella’s reception. He didn’t even want
to think about Bella, feeling his teeth clench, deciding that if she wanted to
put her life on the line that was her decision.
He was through with her, never wanting to hear the name Bella Swan again
as long as he lived, and couldn’t wait for the Cullens to break the
treaty. He would then exact his revenge
and rip Edward Cullen’s head clean off of his shoulders.
“What’s going on?”
Jacob noticed instantly how close Mikayla was sitting beside Kirstyn, who was
sobbing, wondering what the hell he missed.
“Apparently, Mika
knows her.” Jared was still dumbfounded, remembering meeting Mikayla right
after she moved to Forks. He was still
on the reservation, going to school, though that didn’t stop him from sneaking
off to visit her every chance he got.
“How?” Jacob demanded, looking down at Kirstyn with
skeptical eyes. “Is she the reason you’ve been running?”
“No!” Kirstyn couldn’t
believe he asked that, snapping her head up, and stood from the table with a
sniffle. “No, I haven’t seen her since I was fourteen years old. We grew up together during the summers since
before I can remember.”
Jacob blinked, looking
at Jared, who just shrugged his shoulders. “Don’t ask me. I don’t know what the hell is going on and
neither does Emily or Sam.”
“Look, it doesn’t take
a genius to figure this out. It’s really
quite simple. Kirstyn and I grew up in
Texas during the summers. Kirstyn stayed with her grandfather during the
summers and I lived with my parents.
Though, Kirstyn ended up having to live with her grandfather due to
financial issues with her mother.” Mikayla explained, hoping she was making sense,
suddenly turning violet eyes on her best friend. “Kirstyn, what the hell
happened that day?”
Kirstyn swallowed
hard, the fear registering in her eyes, blinking as more tears streaked her
scorched cheeks. How could she tell
Mikayla this without vomiting all over the place? Would anyone even believe her? Kirstyn felt Mikayla’s arm wrap around her
shoulders, leaning against her as she started sobbing.
“I-It…was horrible…”
Kirstyn stammered, shaking her head, gripping her hair in her fingers. “Kayla…”
Mikayla blinked, never
seeing this emotionally unstable side of Kirstyn, remembering how strong she
used to be. Before her stood a broken
little girl who was full of fear, a mere shell of who Mikayla’s best friend
used to be. She pulled Kirstyn into her
arms, crooning soothingly into her ear, ignoring all the eyes on them.
“Whatever is it, you
know I won’t judge you, Kir. Sisters
forever, remember?” Mikayla pulled back, pulling out the silver chain from her
shirt, showing Kirstyn that she never took the rose charm off. “You can tell me
anything.”
Nodding, knowing the
truth had to come out, Kirstyn slowly looked up at everyone, her eyes locking
with Jacob’s. After this was said, she
knew he would be disgusted with her, but it was out of Kirstyn’s control. There was nothing that could be done to
change the past, to change what happened to her, but Kirstyn knew she had to
keep moving forward.
Nobody else would
fight for her except herself.
“Sandra sold me,
Mikayla.” Kirstyn whispered, after getting her sobs under control, staring
straight ahead. She was sitting down at
the table again, her knees growing too weak to stand, taking a deep shaky
breath. “I wish there was something else to call her, but I can’t think of a
word right now. I flat out refuse to
call her my mother because she is anything BUT that.”
“She…sold you?”
Mikayla felt the chunks already rising in her throat, chest rising and falling
rapidly. “W-What…I don’t understand…”
“For six months
straight, Sandra posed as me on a live chat room over the internet. She took pictures of me while I was sleeping,
some of them in my underwear…” Kirstyn began trembling from head to toe, having
lived with this nightmare for four years. “She talked to this guy who lived in
Canada and his name was…Eric…” She nearly choked that name out, holding her
throat, stomach rumbling.
Everyone stayed
silent, not believing what they were hearing, knowing if anyone even uttered a
peep, Kirstyn would stop.
“Sandra made this man believe
he was going to be married to the girl in the photo, lying about my age and
everything. That wasn’t the first man
she tried it on either. There were four
other men…” Kirstyn shuddered, closing her eyes tightly shut, her knee bouncing
up and down frantically. “But Eric…gave her the best deal out of them all. She promised him he could marry her, which
ended up being me…for a price…”
Jacob could already
feel every tendon in his body lighting on fire, the anger pulsating through
him. He was fighting it, knowing he
would end up phasing before this story was done if he didn’t leave. He had to listen to this though and not lose
his temper or else it would no doubt scare Kirstyn off.
Not to mention she
still didn’t know they were shape shifters, so phasing wouldn’t be the smartest
thing to do in front of her.
It was all coming
together now and Mikayla felt sick to her stomach, growing paler by the second.
“That day…” She couldn’t even finish, blinking as huge tears slid down her face
silently.
Kirstyn nodded,
lowering her head in shame. “I didn’t know…I didn’t know what she was
planning. She told me we had somewhere
to go, that it was more important than going to grandpa’s funeral. I yelled and screamed at her the entire way
to the airport, wondering what was so damn important that we couldn’t go pay
our respects. She slapped me across the
face and told me if I didn’t do as I was told, she would kill me.” By now,
Kirstyn could barely sit up, burying her face in her hands, sobbing her heart
out.
It took several
minutes before she continued, Mikayla holding her the entire time, a look of
pure murder in her violet eyes.
“I-I missed my
grandpa’s funeral because of her…I never got a chance to say goodbye to
him. And it was all for her selfish
needs!” Kirstyn didn’t care who heard this, having kept everything bottled up
for four very long years. “Thank god I was her only fucking daughter or she
would’ve probably sold all of her kids…”
“She sold you to this
guy named Eric?” Mikayla already had in his mind to castrate the bastard,
biting back a snarl. “What’s his last name?”
Mikayla would have to
beat Jacob to it, though his face was completely made of stone, not saying a
single word.
“Dawson.” Kirstyn knew
there was no point in hiding anything; having ripped off her engagement ring he
forced her to wear before running.
“Sandra took me to Canada, already having a passport with my
picture. When we pulled up to a house
that was surrounded by woods. Before I
knew what was happening, I was being thrown into Eric’s arms and carried away
from the woman I used to call my mother, who I used to trust with my own
life. She drove off with a quarter of a
million dollars and never looked back.
She sold me…after posing as me over the internet.”
Emily couldn’t take it
anymore and bolted to the bathroom, not wanting to vomit in front of Kirstyn,
tears streaming down her cheeks.
“Is that all?” Sam
managed to whisper; arms folded in front of his chest, along with Jared and
Jacob, all three of them looking as though they could kill.
“No.” Kirstyn looked
up at Mikayla, taking the tissue that was handed to her, needing a minute. She started crying so hard, she could barely
breathe, burying her face in Mikayla’s chest.
“I will kill him.”
Jacob murmured low enough to where only Sam and Jared could hear him, his eyes
never leaving Kirstyn.
Eric wouldn’t live to
see the light of another day after Jacob was through with him. Sam and Jared simply nodded, having the same
thoughts in mind. How could a mother
betray her daughter like that all to make a quick buck? Sometimes humans were worse than the
bloodsuckers and Sandra was definitely one of them.
Kirstyn calmed down
again, with a lot of support from Mikayla, and knew she had to continue. “When he
found out my real age and Sandra lied to him, he beat me within an inch of my
life and threw me into the basement.
I…ended up with a broken wrist and had to set it myself…” She grabbed
her glove covered wrist, closing her eyes tightly shut. “There’s a reason I
never take these off…”
Mikayla didn’t know
how much more she could take and watched, helplessly, as Kirstyn removed the
gloves, revealing three deep slash scar marks that went from her wrist up her
arm to the crease in her elbow. Mikayla covered
her mouth with her hand, shaking her head back and forth slowly. Her best friend, her sister for life, had
tried to kill herself because of the woman who gave birth to her.
“That night, I tried
ending it with a rusty nail I found in the basement. I knew my life was over, I knew I couldn’t
handle being with this monster my mother met over the internet. Throughout the entire ride, she told me about
what she did with absolutely NO remorse in her voice. Like it was an everyday occurrence that a
mother sells her child to a complete and total stranger over the net, posing as
her daughter to trick him.” Kirstyn couldn’t cry anymore, the bitterness
entering her voice, blue eyes flashing with sheer anger. “This is why I felt an
OUNCE of redemption when Eric came back and told me he killed her for lying to
him all this time.”
Mikayla covered her
mouth with her hand, eyes widened to the point where they may never close,
looking over at Jared.
“I’m sorry, I know
that’s probably wrong to say, but after…after what she did to me…to hear that
he at least ended her life was a sliver of gratification…” Kirstyn started
trembling again, pressing a hand to her forehead, knowing she probably sounded
sick at the moment, but honestly didn’t care.
Sandra deserved to die for what she put her only daughter through, her
only child. “After he told me what he did to her…he dragged me upstairs
and…raped me…” Kirstyn wrapped her arms tightly around her midsection, doubling
over, trying to breathe. “H-He told me I was his property, that nothing would
stop him from taking what was his…that I would be his wife when I turned the
legal age…”
“Even though he knew
she posed as you?” Mikayla couldn’t believe this sick bastard, pulling Kirstyn
into her arms, feeling as though the girl would completely shatter…if she
hadn’t already.
Kirstyn nodded,
clenching her teeth together tightly. “Yes.” She practically spat out,
remembering Eric coming home that following day with a silver band, forcing it
on her finger. She was only fourteen
years old and he was forcing her to be engaged to him. “He said I deserved to
pay for my mother’s crimes against him and there was nothing I could do about
it.”
This bastard was going
to die slowly and painfully. Jacob was
going to rip him from the top of his head to the bottom of his feet. Human or not, this man didn’t deserve to live
after what he put Kirstyn through, knowing if he didn’t leave soon he would
phase without warning. Sam could sense
it, simply pointing to the door, and watched him start walking toward it.
“How long were you
with him?” Mikayla whispered, seeing how angry Jacob was becoming because he
was trembling from head to toe.
“Four years. I tried escaping three times and Jacob is the
only reason I made it out of there.” Kirstyn said, looking up at her hero, who
had his back turned to her. She frowned,
seeing how tightly his fists were clenched.
“Jacob, leave.” Sam
ordered, knowing the man couldn’t hold it in any longer, watching Jacob bolt
out of the door.
Kirstyn just lowered
her head and sobbed, suddenly feeling the exhaustion overtake her, slumping
against Mikayla. Jared pressed a finger
to his lips while Sam lifted Kirstyn in his arms, carrying her to her
room. Emily watched with tears streaming
down her face, not believing the horrific story she just heard from this
beautiful girl.
Jared instantly went
to Mikayla’s side, seeing how broken she was, and pulled her into his arms as
he held her close, knowing the wind had literally been knocked out of her.
Chapter 8
“Em…”
“Go find him before he
does something reckless and stupid.” Emily ordered in a soft voice, sniffling
as she dabbed her eyes with some tissue.
She still could not
believe the horrendous story Kirstyn told them, wondering how a mother could do
that to her only child. It was
incredible how Mikayla had reunited with her long lost friend, the bond they
had all those years ago still intact.
Everything was surreal to her and Emily wasn’t sure if she could take
much more that night, heading off to take a nice hot bubble bath.
Nobody was hungry
after a story like that.
Jared was busy
comforting Mikayla, sitting outside with her under the cloudy night sky. He still couldn’t believe she was actually
back here, wondering what made her leave Los Angeles. He remembered how excited she was to be
leaving the small town of Forks to pursue her dream and now she completely
changed, wanting a medical degree.
However, Mikayla still had that spark and fire about her that drove Jared
absolutely to the brink of insanity.
The more things
changed, the more they remained the same.
“I’m not even going to
ask if you’re alright because that’d be a dumb question.” Jared murmured,
rubbing her back while her head rested against his shoulder, pressing a soft
kiss to her temple.
It was bizarre how
small of a world they really lived in and Mikayla reuniting with Kirstyn was a
prime example. Mikayla thought the same
thing and wiped her tears away, scooting closer to Jared, just needing his console
at the moment. That story would probably
haunt her dreams for the next few weeks, not believing everything Kirstyn had
been through in the past four years she’d been missing.
Did Kirstyn even
obtain a high school diploma or was she forced to be secluded with that
wretched beast, who probably raped her night and day for four years? Mikayla could feel the tension in her throat
and released Jared, running over, vomiting over the railing into the sand,
groaning. She hated vomiting, but
couldn’t keep it down, especially when so many thoughts were running swiftly
through her mind about everything Kirstyn suffered.
Jared sighed, holding
her raven purple streaked hair, wondering when she decided to do that. He waited until she was finished and pulled a
tissue out of his pocket, having grabbed some on their way out the door to get
some fresh air. Mikayla smiled weakly at
him and took the tissue, wiping her mouth off and walked back inside the house
to wash her mouth out. She walked out a
few moments later, refreshed for the most part, even though she still looked
incredibly pale.
“You need to lie down
before you fall over.” Jared whispered, the worry evident in his tone of voice,
tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “Mika, that
was a lot to take in.”
“I don’t want to
sleep. I can’t sleep after hearing that,
Jared.” She looked away from him and out into the darkened woods, wondering
where Sam had taken off to, sighing heavily. “I feel so guilty.”
“For what?”
Mikayla blinked as
huge tears slid down her face, slowly looking back at Jared. “I wasn’t there to
protect her.” She whispered painfully, feeling her chest constrict, wrapping
her arms around herself. “I KNEW something wasn’t right that day she left. I should’ve stopped the car or made some excuse
to get her away from that bitch, but I did nothing…”
“Mika…” Jared hated
hearing this, knowing she couldn’t blame herself for what happened to Kirstyn.
“Don’t do that. None of this is your
fault, do you hear me?”
She probably couldn’t even
fathom a mother doing that to her child because he honestly couldn’t. It was almost unbelievable, if there wasn’t
so much pain radiating off of Kirstyn while she told the story. Nobody could possibly make something that
vivid and cruel up without crying unless they were a hell of an actress. Plus, the scars on her arms proved the truth
as well.
“I can’t help it,
Jared. I feel so helpless right now
because I know she’s going through this pain and I can’t take it away. You don’t understand…” Mikayla stood up,
keeping her arms wrapped around herself, just letting the tears fall. “I was
her protector. All throughout the
summers when we’d get together, when I’d stay with my dad, she was there for me
and I was there for her. My mom died
when I was sixteen, as you well know, which was right after Kirstyn’s
grandfather. My dad decided we couldn’t
stay in Texas anymore; that we had to get away.
I lost three important people that year and it changed me, made me
realize that you can’t take life for granted because you don’t know when you’ll
wake up tomorrow. You don’t know when
today will be your last. I thought she
was dead all this time and it turned out she was being tortured, beaten and
raped by a monster all because her mother wanted to make a fast dollar…”
Jared watched Mikayla
sway on her feet, knowing she was going to either pass out or drop to her
knees, catching her as her knees buckled.
He swept her up in his strong arms, seeing her eyes drooping, feeling
his heart shattering in his chest. He
hated seeing Mikayla in this much pain, it physically killed him and he didn’t
know how to take it away.
He didn’t know how to
make this right because, honestly, who could?
Nothing could take
away or change what happened to Kirstyn, even if the pack were to go to Canada
and kill the fiend who destroyed her best friend’s life.
Jared carried her
inside; knowing Emily had a room already set up for him, deciding he would be
staying here. The house was bigger than
what people thought, having an entire top half floor dedicated to guests. Jared went to his room, pushing the door
open, and gently laid Mikayla down.
“I’m sorry Kir…I’m so
sorry…” She whispered painfully, already half asleep, and it tore Jared to
shreds.
He immediately removed
his shoes, along with her heels and climbed into bed with her, wrapping his
strong arm around her waist. No matter
what, Jared knew he couldn’t leave her tonight, knowing even in sleep she would
need him. He knew the only reason she
was sleeping right now was due to her body shutting down, remembering the
insomnia she frequently suffered. He
never knew just how much pain losing her best friend caused Mikayla and was
slowly finding out.
“Sshhh it’s alright,
Mika. I’m here.” He whispered, running
his hand up and down her stomach, sighing when she spooned up against him.
Their fingers laced
together, resting over her gently beating heart, causing his own to swell. He loved her more than life itself, already
knowing she was the only one for him, but Jared was terrified to tell Mikayla
his secret. How was he supposed to tell
her what he transformed into whenever he got angry or had to chase down a
vampire?
Would she even believe
vampires and shape shifters existed? He
knew Mikayla was a realist so this would be very difficult, also knowing he
would probably have to phase in front of her to prove it. Mikayla was all about believing what she
could see and feel, which is why she would make a fabulous doctor.
Yawning, Jared
snuggled against Mikayla, deciding he would figure out how to tell her later
when he had more than a few hours of sleep.
~!~
Jacob, stop. Sam’s voice ordered, causing the
russet colored wolf to reluctantly comply, even though he snapped his teeth
together.
You can’t expect me to just sit back and not do
anything about this. Jacob almost sounded in disbelief, looking over at the
slick raven colored wolf, the alpha of the pack. Sam, didn’t you hear a word Kirstyn said back there?
Yes I did, but do you honestly think going after
this Eric Dawson will make it right?
Sam was a rationalist,
always thinking before acting, which is why he made the best choice for
alpha. He knew when to attack and when
to step back to analyze the situation beforehand. This was definitely a situation that had to
be investigated further.
I can’t just stand by and allow him to breathe
another day after what he did to her. Jacob snarled, snapping his jaws as
the hair stood up, feeling another rush of anger overtake him. He deserves to die, Sam.
I know that; I do not doubt he does. But Jake, what good does it do Kirstyn if you
go down for murder? I’m sure she
wouldn’t want that. Sam’s voice remained cool, calm and collected, knowing
losing his temper with Jacob would only make matters worse. He had to reason with Jacob and make him see
the truth, knowing it was already happening. Deep down, you know I’m right.
Jacob growled, hating
to admit that because Sam always knew how to diffuse a situation. He planted his paws in the ground, closing
his eyes, trying to take deep breaths.
Kirstyn needed him right now; he couldn’t lose his temper and go off on
a killing spree because it wouldn’t solve anything. It would only make matters worse and Jacob
didn’t want that.
Where is she? Jacob hadn’t been there when Kirstyn
collapsed; nodding when he heard in Sam’s mind she was sleeping. I’m going to see her.
Don’t wake her up if you can help it. Sam ordered, knowing
the poor girl needed to sleep, still finding the story she told them today somewhat
astonishing. Oh and Jake?
Yeah?
I wouldn’t tell her just yet. Sam knew he would get
the meaning behind that and took off into the woods, having the unfortunate
duty of patrolling tonight along with Embry and Seth.
Jacob raced back to
Emily’s and stopped just short of the house, seeing a dim candle lit in the
window of Kirstyn’s room. He quickly
changed into human form, slipping on a pair of cut off jean shorts with
sneakers, heading inside the house. He
could hear the bath water running in Emily and Sam’s room, knowing the woman
was distraught by what they heard.
Hell, who wouldn’t be
after a horrific story like that?
Jacob climbed the
ladder toward the top, inhaling the air, his eyes instantly landing on the far
left door. Without knocking, Jacob
turned the door handle and stepped inside, seeing Kirstyn sleeping in bed. She looked like a beautiful sad angel with
tears streaks down her cheeks, her arms uncovered. She hadn’t slipped the gloves back on because
they were currently lying on her nightstand.
Slipping out of his
shoes, Jacob carefully joined her in bed, wincing when it squeaked beneath his
weight. He didn’t care though, staring
down into her face, desperately wanting to take away the pain that radiated off
of him. Being a wolf, Jacob had very
keen senses and felt her deep raw emotions flooding over him in repetitive
waves.
“Kirstyn.” He
whispered huskily, slowly reaching over to run a finger down her cheek, heart
aching at the sight of fresh, hot tears leaking from beneath her closed
lids.
Even in sleep she
couldn’t have any peace, which angered him, but Jacob pushed that aside. He would make a mental note of it for later
on, like when he met this Eric Dawson face to face. Jacob refused to allow any harm to come to this
woman, having found out through Emily she was eighteen years old. Age didn’t matter to him because Jacob didn’t
look sixteen years old and he had a feeling Kirstyn didn’t care about it
either.
He watched her chest
rise and fall evenly, one hand resting over her heart, the other lying prone at
her side. He was becoming engrossed in
her sleeping; wondering if that was weird of him to do so. It didn’t really matter, especially since he
was her protector and she was the only person in his universe that mattered.
Jacob knew he
imprinted the moment he began following her in the woods of Langley.
Now the question was
how did he tell her about not only turning into a hairball, but also
imprinting? She was extremely fragile
right now emotionally, physically and mentally, which wasn’t her fault. None of it was and Jacob was going to make
her realize that even if it was the last thing he did.
He knew she blamed
herself for this happening, for not noticing what her…mother…was doing. Jacob had lost his mother in a car accident
when he was little, so to hear what Kirstyn’s did to her aggrieved him. He couldn’t imagine a mother posing as her
daughter on the internet, taking risqué pictures of her…Jacob felt sick just thinking
about it and gently settled his hand over hers.
“I know you can’t hear
me, but I swear to you, I won’t let anything else happen to you, Kirstyn.”
Jacob vowed in a soft whisper, not wanting to wake her.
He wanted to tell her
this face to face, but at the moment, all Jacob needed was to break her out of
the shell this Eric forced her in for four long years. He knew behind those saddened, depressed blue
eyes rested a soul that was begging to be ignited and come alive again. No matter how long it took, no matter what
Jacob had to do, he would bring the old Kirstyn back, even though he hadn’t the
faintest idea who she was.
Imprinting was
definitely weird, Jacob couldn’t believe how strongly he felt toward her and he
barely knew the girl. Sighing heavily,
he settled down beside her, wondering what she was dreaming about. If only he could read her mind while phased,
though she would have to be a part of the wolf pack.
In a way, she was like
Emily and Mikayla, already knowing Jared had imprinted on Mikayla. It was very hard keeping secrets from each
other in the wolf pack, one of the few things Jacob despised most about being a
shape shifter. To think it took Jacob
leaving La Push, because of a woman who didn’t love him, only to find one that possibly
could in time.
Fate had a funny,
interesting way of revealing things.
Sighing, Jacob nuzzled
her neck with his mouth and nose, inhaling her mixture scent of lilacs and
vanilla. It was intoxicating,
mouthwatering, made his head heady with need.
He groaned, pushing the naughty thoughts that entered his mind far away,
knowing it would be quite a while before he could make a move on Kirstyn.
The first thing he had
to do was help her heal and get through this, to make her realize that she
could live again. Maybe this was Jacob’s
purpose all along because, until he left La Push and met Kirstyn, he didn’t
think he would ever be worthy of being loved.
How wrong he was and Jacob was thankful for this angel that swooped into
his life, completely turning his world upside down.
“Sweet dreams
Kirstyn.” He whispered, closing his eyes and immediately let sleep overtake his
big body, pulling Kirstyn tightly against him just as the candle in the window
went out.
Chapter 9
I don’t believe them.
Sam stopped, looking over
his shoulder at the dark silver haired wolf that was Paul. What do you mean? He demanded, planting his paws into the ground.
Knowing the others
could be listening in, Paul decided talking with Sam about this in human form
was the best way to go. He raced behind
a tree and phased, pulling the shorts from the cord around his ankle and
slipped them on. He didn’t care about
shoes, seeing Sam was human again as well.
“Okay, what’s this all
about Paul?” Sam demanded gruffly, folding his arms in front of his bare chest.
“Look, I know you
believe everything that girl said, but don’t you think her story is a little
unbelievable?” Paul knew he was being a jerk by doing this, but he refused to
let two women come in and take advantage of the pack. There was something fishy about Kirstyn and
Mikayla, something didn’t add up and he was going to get to the bottom of it,
even if he had to do it alone.
Sam sighed, raking a
hand through his black hair. “At first I did, but the broken way she told us
was too real, Paul.” He’d gone over this in his mind several times, having at
first had second thoughts about Kirstyn’s story, but remembered how much she’d
cried.
“Have you ever heard
of acting, Sam?” Paul retorted, rolling his eyes. “Just think about this for a
second. Don’t you find it a little TOO
ironic that first Mikayla shows up out of the blue from L.A. and then Jacob
brings Kirstyn here and they know each other?
It’s TOO coincidental and I think we need to do a background check on
both of them, just to be safe.”
“What do you think
they’re gonna do, Paul? Rip us off?” Sam
snorted, shaking his head in disbelief, wondering if Paul had a screw
loose. However, Paul’s words were
starting to turn Sam’s mind, making him start to second guess. “What would they
have to gain by coming here?”
“Maybe they’re working
for the bloodsuckers as spies.” Paul knew he sounded crazy, but it made a lot
of sense, especially with Sam’s threat of destroying them. Granted, that happened AFTER the women
arrived, but that still didn’t change the suspicious feeling he had in the pit
of his stomach. “Honestly Sam, what would it hurt to just do a little checking
on them?”
Sam arched a slow
eyebrow, the spy comment completely throwing him off guard. “Wait a minute; you
think they’re working for the Cullens?” Sam practically hissed that last word,
eyes narrowing to slits.
“Think about it, Jacob
runs away after Bella rejects him and we all know how cunning that Edward
Cullen is. He probably hired Kirstyn to
distract Jacob, made up this whole story, and she brought Mikayla into the
mix. It’s too linked not to be
suspicious, Sam.” Paul obviously had been thinking a lot about this ever since
Kirstyn’s arrival a month ago and Sam was actually speechless for once. “The bloodsuckers know if they break the
treaty, we will attack. They need some
kind of plan and offense to distract us from the fact that once Bella is turned
into a bloodsucker, all bets are off.”
Paul made several good
points, the main one being how atypical it was for Mikayla and Kirstyn to
reunite after all this time. The second
being the Cullens breaking the treaty when they turned Bella Swan into one of
them. Maybe it wouldn’t hurt to do a
check on them, just to make sure they weren’t a danger to the pack.
After all, they were
protectors of La Push and had an obligation to the tribe. There was more at stake now, though Sam was
thinking about Emily’s safety more than anything. That and it would shut Paul up once and for
all when they did find out the girls weren’t innocent and all of this really
happened.
“Okay fine, we’ll do a
background check on them, but this stays between us Paul. So you better keep your mind occupied on
other things or you’ll be sent off of patrol until this is taken care of.” Sam
stated with authority, watching as Paul nodded without hesitation.
Maybe Paul was onto
something; they would soon find out as both phased back into wolf form to
finish patrolling the woods.
~!~
It’d been a month since
Jacob brought Kirstyn to La Push and reunited with her long lost best friend
Mikayla. It seemed as though Kirstyn’s
life was finally getting back on track, though she still refused to come out of
her shell. Mikayla found out she hadn’t
finished high school…that Sandra had taken her out of it when they left Texas,
so she enrolled Kirstyn into an online class that would help her gain her high
school diploma. It was very important to
have and Mikayla was paying for it, thinking it was the least she could do for
Kirstyn.
Jacob spent every
waking minute with her, talking and walking along the beach, just enjoying each
other’s company. He frequently snuck
into her room at Emily’s and curled up with her, loving the feeling of her in
his arms after a long night of patrolling.
Kirstyn loved being around Jacob and would always look at him as her
savior from that wretched Eric Dawson.
Mikayla and Jared were
getting closer, though it was somewhat difficult with her going to college in
Seattle. Though, Mikayla had found a way
around that, not believing how truly smart she could be sometimes. Instead of taking the classes in person,
Mikayla signed up for all online courses so she could live in Forks, much
closer to Jared and Kirstyn. When Jared
found out, he was ecstatic and helped Mikayla move in immediately to a small
two bedroom apartment.
Indeed a lot could
happen in two months, but Mikayla still hadn’t revealed how she truly felt
about Jared.
“So I was thinking we
should have a four way with the guys.” Mikayla said briskly while she sat on
the beach with Kirstyn one night, her face perfectly calm.
Kirstyn responded by
spitting her water out, coughing and patting her chest, blue eyes widened to
the size of saucers. “WHAT?!” She exclaimed, blinking as Mikayla started
rolling around in the sand, laughing so hard tears were streaming down her
face. “I-I don’t find that even REMOTELY funny, Kayla!”
It took several
minutes before Mikayla finally calmed down, wiping her tears away, giggling.
“I’m sorry…Oh man you should’ve seen your face!
I wish I had a camera or pulled my cell out to snap a shot!” Mikayla was
thrown into another fit of giggles, not able to help herself.
Kirstyn folded her
arms in front of her chest, wearing a pair of blue jeans with a long sleeved
black shirt, along with her gloves –she never went anywhere without them-,
pursing her lips tightly together. “Are you quite finished yet?” She demanded,
causing Mikayla to nod as she sat back up, shaking a bit of sand from her black
hair. She’d dyed it recently straight
black, the purple streaks fading and getting old.
“Yes, I’m sorry.”
Mikayla bit her bottom lip to keep from laughing. “I didn’t mean a four way
LITERALLY.”
“I figured.” Kirstyn
mumbled, turning four shades of red and that just sent Mikayla in another fit
of laughter, kicking her legs as she lay back on the sand.
“Kir, you’re still a
riot as always!”
“I’m so glad you find
my embarrassment amusing.” Kirstyn grumbled, turning her eyes away from her
giggling friend to the ocean, sighing wistfully.
So many things had
changed since she came to La Push, though none of it was bad. In fact, everything that happened was a
blessing, including meeting Jacob Black.
If Kirstyn hadn’t agreed to go along with him, none of this would be
happening and she would be rotting in the bottom of a darkened basement.
“So what do you
think?” Mikayla demanded, nudging Kirstyn out of her thoughts, a grin spread on
her lips. “I think it would be fun, just the four of us doing something besides
sitting around this place.”
Kirstyn bit her bottom
lip, wondering if that was such a good idea, running a hand through her
chestnut locks. “What would we do?” She inquired, looking at Mikayla
skeptically, always knowing the girl had a wild streak to her.
Some things never
changed.
“Well, we could all
hop in Jake’s Rabbit and go to Port Angeles for the day. Shopping malls, theaters, there’s a ton of
stuff to do there.”
Not to mention Mikayla
was in dire need of a shopping spree, knowing Jared wouldn’t mind because he
loved doing it too. They used to shop in
high school together, though it was mostly Jared trekking behind a running
Mikayla, who would hit every store in the mall while he carried her bags. Mikayla always wondered if Jared minded, but
every time she asked, he simply waved her off with a roll of his eyes.
“I don’t know…”
Kirstyn bit her bottom lip nervously, wondering if Jacob would even be up to
spending time with her. She had to sound
like a nutcase to him by now, that much was obvious.
“Oh come on! It’ll be fun and you need some of that in
your life, Kir.” Mikayla grew serious for a minute, wrapping an arm around
Kirstyn’s shoulders. “I promise nothing will happen to you. It’ll just be the four of us having a good
time and getting away from the seriousness of life.”
“That’s not what I’m
worried about, Kayla.” Kirstyn sighed, standing up from the sand and dusting
herself off, rubbing her arms as a chill shot through her body.
“What are you worried
about then?”
“Eric.” Kirstyn whispered,
the sound full of dread and fear, feeling the tremors begin overtaking her
body. Just the mere thought of that
monster finding her sprung tears to Kirstyn’s eyes. “I don’t want to leave La
Push.”
Mikayla finally
understood, knowing Kirstyn had a very good point. They talked more about Eric Dawson and his
tracking methods, knowing he was looking for her. She was his property, as much as that
disgusted Mikayla to think about, and had a feeling he would stop at nothing to
claim what was –in his mind- rightfully his.
“Okay, no Port Angeles
and no leaving the reservation.” Kirstyn’s safety came first, though that
wasn’t going to snuff out Mikayla’s spirit. “Let’s just have a small fire on
the beach and relax under the stars.
We’ll wait for a moonlit night.”
“Do you have any idea
how long that might take?” Kirstyn asked, having seen maybe two nights like
that while being in La Push over the past two months. It rained nearly all the time, not that she
minded because Kirstyn thoroughly enjoyed it.
“I don’t mind hanging out with them just as long as it’s here where I
know it’s safe.”
“So you wouldn’t even
go out to a movie with me?” Jacob asked from behind, causing both girls to whip
around with widened eyes.
“How long were you
eavesdropping?” Mikayla demanded, eyeing Jared suspiciously, a slow smirk
curving his lips. “I oughta whip your ass, Jarhead.”
“Oh come on Kay-Kay,
you know we couldn’t resist.” Jared chortled and laughed when Mikayla tackled him,
or tried to, catching her in his arms as her legs wrapped around his waist.
“Just how much of that
did you overhear?” Kirstyn asked quietly, still incredibly nervous around
Jacob, even though she had no reason to be.
He would never hurt her, she chalked it up to him being male and left it
at that.
Jacob chuckled softly,
moving to stand behind her, resting his hands on her hips. It felt as though they were sear right
through her jeans and Kirstyn still wondered what was with the body heat. She knew he slept with her at night because
when she woke up in the morning, she was always drenched in sweat, having even
started sleeping without a blanket. He
was all the heat she needed, though Kirstyn would never admit that.
“Enough.” Jacob
refused to think about Eric Dawson coming to the reservation, though Kirstyn
did have a good point about staying safe.
He was proud of her for thinking before acting, pulling her back against
his chest lightly. “You know I’d never let anything happen to you right?”
“I know that.”
Jacob grinned, slowly
turning her around to face him, his dark eyes penetrating down to the depths of
her soul. “Then what is wrong with going to Forks for a movie with me?” He
asked, watching a blush creep into her cheeks, his heart skipping a beat. This woman had quite an effect on him, that
much as obvious.
“Nothing, I completely
forgot about Forks.” That was a little white lie, but Kirstyn felt as though
she would turn to ash before Jacob if she didn’t come up with some kind of
excuse. “That and you never asked me.”
“Hmmm, you do have a
point there.” Jacob grudgingly admitted with a smirk, wearing a simple pair of
cut off black jean shorts with sneakers, nothing more. He was always half naked and Kirstyn was
getting used to it. “Well, I suppose I’ll have to rectify that mistake huh?”
Kirstyn smiled, blue
eyes sparkling for once, enjoying this little game Jacob was playing with her.
“You don’t have to if you don’t want to.” She replied, trying to act coy, but
all it amounted to shyness.
Jacob wrapped an arm
around her waist, pulling her against him, towering over her with his rock
hard, muscular form. “Kirs, wanna go to a movie with me?” He murmured huskily,
his eyes never leaving hers, already getting lost in those cobalt blue pools.
Swallowing hard,
Kirstyn was finding it hard to breathe, let alone answer him and mutely nodded
her head. Jacob smirked and leaned down,
pressing a soft kiss to her temple, closing his eyes. He was craving to feel her lips against his,
but knew he had to take things slow.
Kirstyn relished in feeling the warmth that surrounded her, snuggling
into Jacob’s chest.
Mikayla looked over
Jared’s shoulder, a smirk curving her lips, wondering when the man would set
her down on her feet.
However, the two
tender moments were ruined when Sam, Paul, Embry and Quil ran up, all breathing
heavily. “Jake…” Sam’s voice was even, eyes not showing any emotion.
Jacob immediately
released Kirstyn, eyebrows furrowed together, looking from one pack member to
the next. “What’s wrong?” He finally demanded when none of them would speak,
Jared having released Mikayla as well, standing beside Jacob.
“It’s Bella.” Sam
sighed heavily, still not believing what he was about to say to the boy,
especially after she’d put him through.
“Is she dead?” Jacob
asked gruffly, trying not to show pain, though it hurt because he would always
feel something for Bella.
Sam nodded solemnly,
knowing no other words had to be said. “They left before it happened. I just found out from Charlie. He’s beside himself with grief because Bella
basically told him she never wanted to see him again. He’s over at Billy’s right now.”
Jacob nodded, running
into the woods, phasing as soon as he was out of earshot and eyesight.
The movie would indeed
have to wait.
Chapter 10
When Jacob disappeared
for three days, Kirstyn started getting worried and decided to ask Emily about
it. She knew it was none of her
business, but Kirstyn was concerned and genuinely cared about Jacob. Not to mention she felt stronger and secure
when he was around, even though that was very selfish.
Kirstyn sighed and
walked out of her bedroom, heading down the ladder, padding into the living
room in socks. She wore black jeans with
a long sleeved dark red shirt that had a small hood attached to it and pockets
in the front. It had a black spiral
design that went from the hem up the side.
Her hair was up in a messy bun, honestly not caring how she looked.
Emily was busy baking
in the kitchen, just keeping busy since Sam and the others were out searching
for Jacob. Kirstyn knew she was worried,
though the woman tried hiding it well.
Hoping she wasn’t bothering Emily, Kirstyn shyly cleared her throat,
hands shoved in the front pockets of her hooded shirt, watching Emily turn
around.
Emily smiled, closing
the oven door as she took the mittens off, setting them on the counter. “Hey
Kirstyn.” She greeted, warm as always, but Emily could tell something was
bothering the girl.
“Hey Emily.” Kirstyn
walked over to the fridge and grabbed some juice, trying to stall the reasoning
behind her coming out of her room. Ever
since Jacob disappeared, she hadn’t come out hardly at all, keeping herself
closed off…even from Mikayla.
“How are you doing?”
Emily asked, knowing that was a stupid question, but it was all she could think
of to say at the moment. “I’m making muffins, they should be ready shortly.”
“Oh…okay.” Kirstyn
took a long swig of her juice, slowly setting the glass down, eyes lowering to
the counter. “Emily, can I ask you something?”
“Sure sweetie.” Emily
threw the towel over her shoulder, walking over to the kitchen table. “You can
ask me anything.”
It was now or
never. Kirstyn nodded and walked over to
join her, folding her hands on the table, not sure how to go about asking this. When Emily took her hand and assured Kirstyn
she could ask absolutely anything, she knew she could trust Emily. Emily was so patient and kind, two qualities
that weren’t found in most people these days and Kirstyn felt blessed to know
her.
“Will you tell me what happened with Jacob?” She asked sheepishly, clearing her
throat. “I know it’s none of my business, but I’m really worried about
him. He’s been nothing but kind to me
and saved my life. I can’t help worrying
about him and if this is out of line, I’m sorry, I just-”
Emily had to press a
finger to Kirstyn’s lips to keep her from rambling on, chuckling softly.
“Breathe.” She instructed softly, watching Kirstyn suck in a deep breath. “Now
exhale and calm down.”
“Thanks.” Kirstyn
breathed out, feeling as though her heart was going several miles a second.
Emily found it
adorable how flustered Kirstyn became every time she mentioned Jacob’s name,
not to mention glowed. She already knew
they were meant to be together and was just waiting for Jacob to make a
move. Though, that wouldn’t happen as
long as Jacob was still hung on Bella.
She also had to remember Kirstyn had no idea about Jacob being a shape
shifter –or any of them for that matter- or the subject of vampires.
“You’re worried about
him.” When Kirstyn nodded, Emily sighed as she leaned back against the chair,
folding her arms in front of her chest. “I’m worried about him too, but I know
Sam and the others will bring him back.”
“Why did he run away?”
Kirstyn asked, feeling a little braver, cracking a hesitant smile full of
apprehension.
Emily leaned forward,
clasping her hands in front of her, knowing Kirstyn deserved to know the truth
about Jacob and Bella. “Do you know who Bella is?” She asked, deciding to go
the easy route, nodding when Kirstyn shook her head. “Okay, well, Bella and
Jacob used to be best friends. They grew
up together and used to make mud pies when they were little. Bella lived here with her father, who is
Charlie Swan, the chief of police in Forks.
Charlie is best friends with Billy Black, Jacob’s father. With me so far?”
Kirstyn nodded mutely,
very intrigued by the story already.
“Bella’s mom left
Charlie when Bella was little and moved her to Phoenix. Bella didn’t come here to see her father
hardly ever, once in a blue moon if that.
Anyway, she met up with Jacob again after moving here about two years
ago permanently and Billy sold his old truck to Charlie for her. Jacob went to school here on the reservation
while she went to Forks High School. That’s
when she met…Edward Cullen.” Emily had to stop briefly, feeling a bad taste
form in her mouth at the word. “The Cullens have been here a few years, moved
down from Alaska or something like that.
Anyway, she instantly fell in love with Edward and they ended up dating
for six months or so…”
Kirstyn had a feeling
where this was going, but remained quiet, already feeling the hope of possibly
being with Jacob deteriorating.
“To make a long story
short, Edward left Bella because he was ‘trying to save her’.” Emily did the
quotation marks with her fingers and rolled her eyes, shaking her head. “When
Edward left, guess who Bella turned to?”
“Jacob…”
Emily nodded,
clenching her fists tightly. “Yes, Edward destroyed her, ripped her to shreds
and Jacob pieced her back together. He
tried everything to help her get over Edward, but Bella couldn’t let go. Anyway, Edward was gone six months before he
came back and begged Bella’s forgiveness.” That wasn’t the entire story, though
Emily couldn’t possibly tell the truth about how Bella went all the way to
Italy and stopped Edward from killing himself because he thought Bella had.
“She immediately took him back and left Jacob in the cold. No remorse, she chose the man who ripped her
apart over the guy who put her back together and made her who she was again.”
“Wow…” Kirstyn blinked
several times, shocked that a woman could make such a foolish decision like
that. “Was he in love with her or something?”
“Yes, helplessly and
foolishly.” Emily sighed, standing up from the table, needing some water.
“Jacob was absolutely devastated; especially when he found out they were
getting married. That’s why he left La
Push because he couldn’t handle the pain he was feeling and didn’t want to
burden any of us with it. We’re his family,
but he had to find his own way. So he
left for two months and found you.”
Kirstyn wondered who
in their right mind could possibly choose anyone over Jacob, wrapping her arms
around herself. “So…why did he leave this time?” She whispered, cobalt eyes
glued to the floor.
“Bella left Forks with
her new family. Jacob is still pining
for her, but eventually he’ll realize that she is no good for him and find a
real woman who will love him unconditionally.” Emily explained, once again not
telling the complete truth because she had to protect the secret of the
Quileute tribe.
It had to be Jacob’s
decision if he was going to tell Kirstyn about it or let her slip through his
fingers like an idiot.
“Thank you for telling
me, Emily. I’m gonna go for a walk on
the beach.”
Kirstyn walked out of
the house and down the steps, grabbing her black hooded sweatshirt on the way
out since it was chilly along with her black sneakers. She slipped both on outside, throwing the
hood up over her head, and headed down to the beach for some deep
thinking. If Jacob was still in love
with this Bella, then what business did he have asking her out on a date?
“I hope I did the
right thing.” Emily murmured, having second thoughts and knew it couldn’t be
reversed as she checked on the muffins, hoping Sam would return sometime that
night.
The day slowly faded
away with no sign of the wolf pack, except Seth and Leah Clearwater, who stayed
behind to guard the lands. Even though
there was no other bloodsucker in the area now that the Cullens were gone. Things would be very quiet from here on out,
which was both nice and boring, even though a sigh of relief could be felt
throughout the reservation.
Kirstyn stood outside
on the beach, sitting in the sand far enough away from the water so it didn’t
splash her. She had her knees drawn up
to her chest, arms wrapped around them, leaning against a huge boulder and
staring out at the dark water. She
missed Jacob more than words could say, feeling tears sting her eyes, the loneliness
beginning to seep in.
One would’ve thought
after what Kirstyn went through with Eric she would never want to be with
another man again, but that was until Jacob entered her world. Now, he was all she could think about and
Kirstyn didn’t understand it. She’d
never felt this strongly about someone, already knowing she was entirely and
everlastingly in love with him.
“Damn it.” She
whispered, wiping a few stray tears away from her cheeks hastily, sick and
tired of feeling pain.
When was she ever
going to get her happily ever after?
Fairytales didn’t
exist and Kirstyn learned that the very hard way when she was sold to Eric for
a quarter of a million dollars.
Kirstyn already knew
she wasn’t good enough to be with a man like Jacob Black. He was gorgeous in every sense with a heart
of gold and strong spirit. She could
talk to him about absolutely anything, even what happened with Eric, and he
never once had a look of judgment in those dark eyes. They were full of understanding, not sympathy,
which Kirstyn appreciated.
“I need to leave him
alone.”
“Leave who alone?” A
deep husky voice sounded behind her, causing Kirstyn’s eyes to nearly fall out
of her head.
Slowly turning around,
Kirstyn blinked as huge tears slid down her cheeks, the hood having been blown
back from the ocean breeze, staring at Jacob in shock. How long had he been standing there listening
to her? The man had a funny way of
sneaking up on her, though it didn’t unnerve Kirstyn like it probably
should’ve.
Jacob frowned, seeing
the tears and immediately went to her side, wearing just a pair of blue jean
cut off shorts and sneakers, bending down to be eye level with her. “Why are
you crying?” He asked softly, wiping the tears away from her cheeks, worry and
concern in his brown eyes.
“You’re here.” Kirstyn
laughed, sniffling as she finished the job he started, wiping her face with the
sleeves of her sweatshirt.
“I’m here.” Jacob
sighed, knowing he probably scared her by leaving, but he had to get away for a
few days. “I’m here Kirs.”
He pulled her into his
arms and Kirstyn couldn’t stop the tears from flowing even if her life depended
on it. She clung to him for dear life,
wrapping her arms tightly around his neck, shoulders shaking from how hard she
cried. Jacob closed his eyes, hating
that he caused her any amount of pain, running his fingers through her hair and
whispered soothing words into her ear, trying to calm her down.
“I’m sorry.” She
blubbered, knowing she was acting like a baby, but Kirstyn couldn’t help it as
she finally pulled back to look into his eyes. “I was so worried about you.”
Jacob chuckled, having
guessed that, not minding she was currently straddling him with his arms around
her. He missed her the entire time he
was away, those cobalt orbs never once leaving his dreams. He leaned forward, pressing his forehead to
hers and closed his eyes, inhaling the familiar wonderful scent of lilacs and
vanilla.
A scent only Kirstyn
carried.
“I’m sorry for
worrying you. I shouldn’t have left like
that.” Jacob sighed, pulling back to stare back at her. “You don’t have to
worry about me though, Kirstyn. I can
handle myself.”
Kirstyn sniffled with
a shrug. “That still won’t stop me from worrying about you, Jake.” She stated,
wiping the tears away as they slowly subsided, her cheeks blotchy red, eyes
puffy and swollen.
Jacob chuckled more,
nodding as she rested her head against his shoulder, feeling his arms tighten
around her. “You have a stubborn streak to you.” He commented, running his hand
up and down her back, glad she was finally calming down.
“Only once in awhile.”
She mumbled, cheeks turning red and Jacob laughed from low in his throat, the
sound husky.
“Right.” He pressed a
soft kiss to her temple, loving the feel of the cool ocean breeze blowing
across his burning skin. It was great
being back home, though Jacob hadn’t gone nearly as far as before.
“Where did you go?”
Kirstyn knew she was sticking her nose in his business again, but was honestly
curious, slowly moving her head to look up into his dark eyes.
Jacob sighed, knowing
he owed her an explanation. “I was actually in Forks this entire time. I was staying with Charlie at his place, helping
him pack up some stuff.” Emily told Jacob when he came back with Sam earlier
about her conversation with Kirstyn, which lead him to the beach, where she
frequently disappeared to. Bella really
hurt her father, but Jacob never knew anyone, besides his father, who was as
strong as Charlie Swan. “It helped to talk to him about my feelings and we both
decided we’re better off without Bella in our lives.”
Kirstyn swallowed
hard, not believing how noble this man holding her was, wondering how she’d
gotten so lucky to meet him. “That was very kind of you.” She murmured quietly,
running her hand up and down his chest very slowly without realizing it.
“You’re such a good person, Jake.”
Shrugging, Jacob
stared down into her blue eyes, placing his hand over hers, stopping the
movement. “I try.” He whispered, wishing he’d known Kirstyn sooner because he
would’ve never let her wretched mother take her away.
He would’ve done what
he could to protect her, but Jacob couldn’t change the past. He just had to keep moving forward and
protect her from here on out, which is what he planned on doing. Kirstyn was his entire world now and he was
going to prove it by letting his actions speak louder than words.
“Kirstyn…” He ran a
finger down her cheek in a gentle caress, never breaking eye contact, and
slowly lowered his head to hers. He was
waiting for her to back away, to do something to stop him, pleased when she
didn’t.
“Jake…”
As soon as his lips
touched hers, Kirstyn felt as though her heart would explode, not believing how
soft and tender it was. Kirstyn
instantly responded, wrapping her arms around his neck, kissing him back with
as much feeling as Jacob gave her. This
kiss wasn’t full of desperation or sympathy.
It was passionate and full of so many different feelings that neither
could comprehend what they were.
Kirstyn moaned softly
when his tongue brushed across her lips, coaxing them open, instantly granting
him access and sighed as their tongues touched for the first time. Her body completely melted and lit on fire
against his burning skin, feeling him cup her face in his hands, the kiss
growing more intense by the second.
Jacob couldn’t stop himself as he crushed her against his body, his hand
finding her hair, which was down from the bun she had it up earlier, twisting
his fingers in her soft locks as he continued the assault on her lips.
Both were in complete
heaven and didn’t want this moment to end, neither pulling back to come up for
air.
Chapter 11
“So let me get this
straight, you made out with Jacob for hours on end on the beach?” Mikayla
demanded, gaping at a blushing Kirstyn, shaking her head in disbelief. She’d thought what everyone else had, that
Kirstyn would never want another man because of her traumatizing experience.
How wrong everyone
was.
“It was amazing.”
Kirstyn felt her cheeks growing hotter, sighing, unable
to wipe the smile from her face. “I didn’t want to come up for air.”
“Girl!” Mikayla
squealed with excitement, jumping up and down like a fool, honestly not caring.
“So you two are dating now?”
“Yes.” Kirstyn beamed,
still not believing it herself, but it really happened and she was the happiest
she’d ever been in her life. “I can’t explain it and I know I should be terrified
of intimacy, but with Jacob it’s so different.
He makes me feel so secure and safe, like nothing in the world can hurt
me.”
Mikayla hugged her
best friend close, having rekindled their friendship after Jacob returned to La
Push. When Kirstyn told Mikayla where
Jacob was, she honestly thought he was very noble and kind to do something like
that. Of course, those words didn’t even
scratch the surface, but it was the best she could come up with at the time.
“So what happens now?”
Mikayla wanted to know
every single detail, glad Kirstyn agreed with her to go out for a drink at the
local coffee shop in Forks. Due to the
constant threat of Eric finding her, Kirstyn was only allowed off of the
reservation during the day. Jacob nearly
made her wear a wig, but Kirstyn drew the line, saying she would be very
careful, especially being with Mikayla.
“I have no idea. I guess we’re just taking one day at a time,
enjoying each other’s company.”
Kirstyn sipped her
French vanilla latte, wearing a simple blue jean skirt with a short sleeved
blue top that had a shimmering silver design splashed on the front. It was a very surprising seventy five degrees
that day so the girls were soaking up the sun, knowing it wouldn’t last past
that night. Mikayla was in a deep red
tank dress that went two inches above the knee and had matching Stiletto heels,
her hair swept up on top of her head.
The California glamour life still lived with Mikayla, but nobody seemed
to mind and she honestly didn’t care what people thought of her.
“Do you love him?”
Mikayla wasn’t going to ask, but figured she’d already stepped over the
boundary line, violet eyes sparkling.
“Yes.” Kirstyn felt
her heart skip a beat when she said it out loud, nervous laughter following.
“How can I not love him, Kayla? He saved
my life and treats me well.” She decided it was time to take the spotlight off
of her, eyes filling with mischief. “What about you?”
“What about me?”
“Do you love Jared?”
Kirstyn smirked when Mikayla bit her bottom lip, showing nervousness this time.
“Of course I do. That’s why I left California and came back
here. Kir, you have no idea how hard it was being away from him. I loved him in high school, but never had the
guts to tell him.” Her voice grew quiet, eyes staring down at her own mocha
latte, spoiling herself since Mikayla usually watched what she ate and kept
track of her calorie intake.
“When are you going to
tell him?”
“When are you going to
tell Jake?” Mikayla shot back with a smirk, folding her arms in front of her
chest, arching a black eyebrow.
Kirstyn sighed,
hunching her shoulders. “I don’t know.
Part of me wants to scream it from the top of the highest mountain, but
another part is afraid of rejection.
What if he just likes me, you know?” If there was anyone Kirstyn could
voice her true fears to about this relationship with Jacob, it was Mikayla.
“That’s why I’m not
telling Jared.” Mikayla replied, taking Kirstyn’s hand in her own, giving it a
gentle squeeze. “Because I’m afraid he’ll reject me too.”
“Why on earth would he
reject you?” Kirstyn stated, staring at Mikayla knowingly. “I mean LOOK at
you! You’re a knockout with the perfect
body and a natural beauty that a lot of women would kill for. Jared would be absolutely crazy to not love
you back.”
“It’s not just about
looks, Kir.” Mikayla murmured, suddenly feeling self conscious as she pulled
her black leather jacket over her shoulders that she’d brought with her. One never knew what the weather in Forks would
do so she was always prepared. “Do you have any idea how much I despise my
looks?”
Kirstyn blinked,
slowly shaking her head, not really understanding. “Why?” She couldn’t help
asking, knowing if she looked anywhere near what Mikayla did, Kirstyn would be
getting the same attention, even though she preferred to stay in the shadows.
“Kir, most of my life
has been about my looks. Look at all
those stupid beauty pageants my mom forced me into when I was little. I know she’s dead, but damn it I resent her
for everything she put me through! I
can’t walk down the street without being whistled or winked at. Do you have any idea how embarrassing that
is? I know I wear the clothes I do, but
when you’ve lived in California for two years, it grows on you.” Mikayla looked
down at the table, tears stinging her eyes. “I wish I was a normal woman
without the curves or a dazzling smile.
I just wish I was original because then I would know Jared wants me for
more than just my looks.”
“You think he wants
you just because of your looks?” Kirstyn asked softly, watching Mikayla nod,
and that broke Kirstyn’s heart. For the
first time, she realized that, no matter how blessed Mikayla was, she had
insecurities just like everyone else. “I’m sorry, Kayla. I shouldn’t have said that…”
“No, it’s fine.”
Mikayla dabbed her eyes to keep from smearing her eyeliner, tucking it back in
her purse, smiling softly at Kirstyn. “You are beautiful too inside and out,
Kir. If Jacob can’t see that, then he
doesn’t deserve to have you.”
Kirstyn wanted to
believe that, but deep down she couldn’t because of Sandra and Eric. How could she feel beautiful when she was
raped countless times by a stranger who was more than half her age? Granted, Kirstyn didn’t care about age, but a
line had to be drawn somewhere. Not to
mention she was sold to him like property, losing her freedom and
independence. She was broken and
damaged, why would Jacob ever want someone like that?
“You are beautiful
Kirstyn, no matter what you’ve been through.” Mikayla was one of the only
people who could read her mind, which still amazed Kirstyn even after all the
years they were apart.
“Thanks.” She mumbled,
not wanting to talk about this anymore, and nodded when Mikayla suggested they
go shopping. “You have a shopping
addiction.”
“I know.” Mikayla grinned,
pulling Kirstyn with her down the sidewalk, making sure to be careful not to
draw too much attention to them. “I can’t help it if I find a good sale
though.”
Kirstyn rolled her
eyes and snorted. “Ninety five percent of America has the same mindset and
that’s why most of them are in debt.”
“Oh shut up and enjoy
it!” Mikayla laughed, nudging her best friend. “If you’re good, I’ll buy you
something sexy to show off for Jake.”
Kirstyn blushed from
head to toe, shaking her head. “That won’t be necessary.” She mumbled, ignoring
Mikayla’s laughter as they headed into a lingerie shop, which caused Kirstyn to
groan.
This wasn’t going to
be fun.
~!~
“You didn’t find
ANYTHING?”
Paul sighed heavily, sitting
at the kitchen table with Sam, both of them looking through countless paperwork
on the girls. They found information on
Mikayla, but nothing scandalous, which was good. Jared needed a good girl in his life so she
passed with flying colors. Kirstyn on
the other hand was a complete mystery because they could not find anything.
“Nothing, it’s almost
as if she doesn’t exist.” Sam threw the file down on the table, folding his
hands behind his head, shaking it slowly. “I don’t know what to do about this.”
“Well, what if she’s
not even who she claims to be?” Paul stated, looking at the pack leader,
knowing he had a point. “Even if her
mother sold her to this guy Eric Dawson, she would still have a record of some
kind or a birth certificate.”
It was true. Sam searched every which way he possibly
could and came up with absolutely nothing.
No social security number, no record of Kirstyn Ames existing at all. It was the strangest thing because Sam even
went as far as to go to Canada and tried retrieving her files there. When he didn’t find anything, he ventured to
Austin, Texas, telling Emily he had to go away for a few days with Paul. Once again, he came up short and he couldn’t
afford a private investigator.
“So you think she made
up the name Kirstyn Ames?” Sam asked, watching Paul nod with enthusiasm,
stroking his chin in thought. It was a
very big possibility, though Sam couldn’t piece something together. “Well, what
about Mikayla then? She was talking
about their childhood in Texas and everything…”
“Once again, you are
too gullible to believe stories. Mikayla
may have checked out clean as far as her background goes, but what if she’s
still trying to scam us? I’m telling you,
Sam, something isn’t right.”
Sam sighed heavily,
running a hand down his face, eyebrows drawn together. “So you still think
they’re working for the Cullens?” He finally asked, after what seemed like
moments passing between them. “You do realize if I bring this out in the open
and it’s wrong, we’re going to look like two of the biggest jerks on this
planet right?”
Paul was willing to
take that chance, nodding. “We’re not wrong.
My gut instinct is telling me there is more than what meets the eye with
Kirstyn Ames and Mikayla Robinson. We just
haven’t found it yet. We have to keep
digging and searching.”
“What makes you so
sure?”
Sam wondered what was
going through Paul’s mind; the man had become good at hiding his true feelings,
especially when they were phased. He was
working with Jacob that night and Sam could only hope Paul didn’t think about
what they were doing behind the packs back.
It would be very bad, especially since Jacob technically was second in
command of the pack. He was originally
supposed to be the alpha, but Jacob turned it down because he felt he wasn’t
ready to take the position. He didn’t
want the responsibility and Sam to fit the build better for it.
“My instincts are
rarely wrong.” Paul sounded borderline cocky, though Sam couldn’t deny the
fact. He was usually the first to track
an intruder in La Push and Sam had no idea how it was possible. “I think we
might’ve missed something in Texas.”
“So you want to go
back there?” Sam groaned when Paul nodded, knowing that wouldn’t be possible,
especially since he’d already lied to Emily once about leaving. “Paul, you’re
digging me a hole with Em.”
“She’s not gonna find
out.” Paul coaxed, standing up to retrieve something to drink, chuckling. “Come
on, you know as well as I do that Emily totally believes Kirstyn so she has to
be left in the dark. It’s for her own
safety.”
“I still don’t
understand how you can think Kirstyn is a danger to us. There’s how many of us and just one of her?”
Sam cracked open the soda Paul slid to him, leaning back against the chair, and
started looking over the paperwork again. “Maybe we should go investigate
Mikayla’s father, see if we can’t coax information about Kirstyn out of him.”
Paul arched an
eyebrow, eyes practically glowing. “NOW you’re talking!” He laughed, tapping
his temple with his finger. “See, I knew you’d see things my way eventually,
alpha.”
“Just remember,
innocent until proven guilty.” Sam reminded him, both of them toasting each
other. “So what’s this guy’s name?”
“Jim Robinson.” Sam
read from the file. “He lives in San Diego, California.”
“We’re going to
California then?” Paul grinned from ear to ear, loving the sound of that,
especially with how warm it was. Not to
mention all the half dressed women…oh yeah he could definitely handle taking a
trip to California. “When do we leave?”
“As soon as I can
figure out a way to tell the pack and Emily.” Sam replied gruffly, wondering
how the hell he was going to cook up another lie to tell his fiancée. She could usually read him like a book and
Sam was becoming more nervous by the second lying to her. He hated it, absolutely despised holding any
secrets, but he knew Emily wouldn’t understand their reasoning behind
investigating Kirstyn.
“Just tell her that
you found a new lead and you’ll be back in a few days.” Paul made it sound so
easy, too easy, and that just made Sam even more apprehensive.
“I can’t tell her
we’re going to California. She’ll know
something’s up because we’ve already been to Texas.” Sam had a good point and
sucked down his soda, crushing the can in his hand. “I’ll tell her we’re going
to Nevada.”
“Ooo Las Vegas!” Paul
crowed, laughing when Sam shot him a glare, immediately stopping. “Sorry.”
“You think this is one
big game that we’re trying to destroy this poor girl.” Sam shook his head in
disgust, standing up from the table, and tossed the can away. “I swear on this
tribe if that girl is innocent and you’ve put me and the pack through the
ringer for nothing, I will beat the shit out of you.”
Paul blinked, never
hearing Sam cuss because the man was usually very level-headed. Though the look of deadly intentions in Sam’s
eyes at that moment made Paul swallow hard.
What if he was wrong about Kirstyn?
Paul immediately shook his head of that possibility, knowing it was
ludicrous, doing what was right for the pack.
“You just worry about
telling Emily the news. I’ll tell Jake
and the others tonight.” Paul stated heatedly, shooting a glare at Sam before
walking out, slamming the door behind him.
Sam shook his head and
hit the wall, wondering what he was thinking going along with this ridiculous
assumption that Kirstyn Ames was deceiving them. The girl never once gave him an indication
that she was a danger to the pack or tribe.
Though, they still had to check because Sam wasn’t taking any
chances. Sighing, he walked out the door
moments later and took off into the woods, deciding he would be the one telling
the pack about him and Paul taking another trip.
Neither saw the tear
stained Kirstyn crouched behind the chair on the porch, having heard every
single word through the screen door.
Chapter 12
This was implausible.
Papers were strewn all
over the kitchen table that were full of Mikayla’s personal information,
everything right down to her first and only ticket for speeding in
California. Kirstyn could not believe
how vindictive Sam and Paul could be, eyes narrowed to slits as the tears stung
her eyes. She replayed their
conversation over in her head that she overheard, having just got back from
shopping with Mikayla in Forks.
No!
She wouldn’t cry, not
while she was in this godforsaken place.
Why would they even think that Kirstyn and Mikayla were using them or
whatever? What did they ever do to
deserve not being trusted? According to
Paul and Sam, they didn’t believe a word Kirstyn said about Eric, which broke
her heart because she had no reason to lie to anyone.
Of course, why would
they believe her? The story was
unbelievable and unfathomable that a mother could sell her own daughter for a
quarter of a million dollars. Kirstyn
knew they were trying to find information on her and, honestly, there wasn’t
anything. She tried finding it herself,
to which Eric told her all of her information was destroyed to keep her with
him.
Kirstyn remembered the
night Eric burned everything right in front of her while she was strapped to a
chair. Her birth certificate, social
security number, records of shots and anything else important was nothing but
ashes. He didn’t want her to have a way
to escape from him and figured the only way was to make it seem as though she
never existed…except for his personal wants and needs.
Tears streamed down
her cheeks like two raging rivers as Kirstyn scrambled to put all of the
paperwork back in the file, gripping the kitchen table tightly in her
hands. Now that she knew what they
really thought of her, it was time to leave.
She couldn’t trust any of them, not even Jacob, which broke her heart
into pieces, wondering if he had anything to do with this.
It didn’t matter.
Kirstyn didn’t believe
she was safe here anymore, having a feeling if Sam and Paul didn’t find what
they were looking for through Mikayla’s father, that they would probably go
after Eric next. They would lead Eric to
La Push and Kirstyn would be forced to go back to him, no matter what Jacob did
or said. Sam didn’t want her here, which
was very obvious, and was trying to find something on her so he could more than
likely blackmail her into leaving quietly.
All they had to do was
ask.
Of course, Kirstyn
wouldn’t just disappear without at least saying goodbye to two people, Mikayla
being one of them. She already knew
where she was going as Kirstyn looked out the window, wiping the tears away
from her cheeks, wrapping her arms around herself. The other person was Jacob because, no matter
if he was involved in this or not, that didn’t stop Kirstyn from loving
him. He saved her life and Kirstyn owed
him at least a proper goodbye, though she knew she could never reveal her true
intentions.
It would be silent and
hidden, something that he would put together after she was gone.
How could Kirstyn
think everything was alright? That she
could finally be happy with finding her long lost childhood best friend and
falling in love for the first time.
She’d been fooling herself into thinking that she could have a normal,
secure life in La Push surrounded by people who loved and cared about her.
“I’m such an idiot.”
She whispered, shaking her head as she looked down at what she was wearing,
swallowing hard.
Kirstyn wouldn’t be
taking anything with her when she left that night, right after the small get
together Emily was having. If it wasn’t
the right time to leave, where she wouldn’t be caught, then Kirstyn wouldn’t. She was already prepared though, having taken
what she could find around Eric’s house and bought herself a bus ticket. Mikayla thought she was purchasing something
for Emily, so this worked out perfectly.
As much as it pained
her, Kirstyn knew she had to leave.
Her payback to Emily
would be to clean the house from top to bottom, knowing the woman was out
shopping for the party tonight. She had
no idea what it was for, but Kirstyn would be making sure she wasn’t wearing a
single thing Emily bought for her from the local market. She retrieved a garbage bag from beneath the
sink and shoved all the clothes in it, except the ones she came in, which she
made sure Emily didn’t dispose of.
After taking a very
quick shower, Kirstyn dressed in the black jeans, long sleeved shirt and black
hooded sweatshirt with socks and sneakers that she showed up with. She pulled her hair up in a ponytail,
slipping her black gloves on and secured them with the Velcro. Kirstyn then proceeded to clean the entire house,
knowing she owed Emily something, and tried not to cry during the process. There was no reason to cry because Kirstyn
knew she would soon be far away from here and out of Sam’s suspicions for good.
Maybe then he’d leave
Mikayla alone, even though she planned on leaving a letter explaining exactly
what Sam and Paul did. Mikayla deserved
to know that they were looking through her personal files because they thought
they were trying to scam them or whatever.
If Jared was involved, she didn’t want Mikayla to be with someone like
that and refused to keep her in the dark.
She would do it on her
terms though.
Kirstyn was even nice
enough to take the folder full of Mikayla’s personal information. When she left the letter for Mikayla, it
would be with the folder, which would explain everything in itself. Paul and Sam were not going to get away with
this and Kirstyn still could not believe how deceptive they were being toward
her and Mikayla.
Once the house was
finished, Kirstyn stepped outside for some air, shoving her hands in the
pockets of the sweatshirt. She walked
away from the house through the woods toward the beach, just wanting to feel
the ocean breeze one last time blow across her face. She would truly miss this place she once
thought as her serenity, a place she could come when she needed to think about
things or just let a few tears fall.
This was no longer a
place Kirstyn could call home; that nearly destroyed her, which was surprising
since she was originally born and bred Texan.
Kirstyn knew she
couldn’t stay for very long and walked over to the same rock she’d leaned
against so many times since being here.
It’d been a little over two months since Jacob saved her and Kirstyn
would always be grateful to him for doing that.
She had her own life to live though and couldn’t stay somewhere she
wasn’t trusted or vice versa.
“Goodbye.” She
whispered to the ocean, standing up and dusting herself of the sand, knowing
she had to head back to Emily’s to help set up for the get together.
~!~
Paul and I are leaving first thing in the morning
and going to Nevada. We found another
lead to the threat we feel has infiltrated the reservation.
Paul sat silent, his
sleek dark silver coat shimmering in the moonlight, knowing they had to get
back to Emily’s shortly.
What exactly is this threat? Jacob wondered, knowing
they could only communicate through thought, looking from the raven colored Sam
to Paul. Don’t you think you should tell
the rest of us what’s going on? We could
help…
No, you can’t.
You need to stay here and protect the reservation. We can’t take any chances right now. Paul growled, wishing
Jacob would stop questioning their motives.
Enough Paul. Sam commanded, knowing when the
alpha spoke they had to obey. Jake, the
threat is huge and involves more cold ones.
We’re thinking they’re working for the Cullens and we don’t need any
more than two going to Nevada to check this out.
But what’s in Nevada? It was Jared’s turn
and he wasn’t backing down so easily, even though Jacob looked like he could
rip Paul’s throat out. Having all of us
stay here while you and Paul go searching for something isn’t safe or wise,
Sam. It would be better if at least half
the pack went, if this threat is as big as you say it is…
Now Jared was getting
on Paul’s nerves. We don’t NEED any of
you to come with us.
In case you haven’t forgotten, Paul, I am supposed
to be the alpha of this pack. Jacob was tired of being pushed
around, squaring his shoulders, hair standing up on edge. Something doesn’t smell right here.
I want to know what the hell is going on and I want to know it NOW.
Jake has a point.
I mean, you two disappeared to California for a few days without even
letting us know. Emily had to tell us
that there was a threat you two were looking into. She was shocked you didn’t bring of us
with. Embry piped up, standing besides
Jacob, Jared on his other side. If this
threat is huge, it’s dangerous for the two of you to go by yourselves when you
know there are plenty of us here to still protect La Push.
Jacob nodded and was
glad Embry made several good points, looking at Sam with hardened eyes. Something wasn’t right; he could feel it
right down to his bones and could feel the frustration slowly building. He didn’t want to play the alpha card, but at
this point he didn’t have a choice, especially since Sam and Paul was hiding
something from them.
Who’s the alpha here? Sam demanded, not
liking how nearly half the pack –Leah and Seth had also joined Jacob’s- was
standing beside Jacob. Look, I don’t know
WHAT this threat is yet, which is why I’m going to scope it out with Paul.
But why does Paul have to go with you? Leah demanded, tilting
her head somewhat to the side, knowing Sam better than he knew himself. Why do you suddenly trust Paul over the rest
of us?
I don’t.
That’s a load of bull and you know it! Jacob growled, ready
to attack Paul if he said one more word in that puny brain of his. He would attack and rip his throat out, sick
and tired of these games they were playing with them. If we’re truly protectors of La Push, then we deserve to know EVERYTHING
that’s going on around here, Sam, not just part of it.
Just let us go investigate this and then when we
get back, we’ll let you in on everything.
This could be nothing… Sam was losing control fast and
closed his eyes, knowing he had to keep what they were doing a secret and far
out of the recesses of his mind. We’re
leaving first thing in the morning. I
don’t want to talk about this anymore.
If you were smart, you’d listen to him. Paul stated and walked
away with Sam, both of them phasing before heading to Emily’s.
Jacob phased along
with the others, who also stayed behind, deciding they were having their own
meeting. “I’m not buying a word of that.” He stated in a growl, clenching his
fists tightly at his sides. “If the rez was truly in danger, he wouldn’t
hesitate to tell us.”
“He’s hiding
something.” Jared stated without difficulty, watching the others nod.
“Yeah, I mean did you
see how Paul kept trying to defend him?” Leah snorted, rolling her eyes,
folding her arms in front of her chest.
They’d all changed
right after phasing, knowing they couldn’t have this conversation in case Sam
and Paul tried listening in. They would
sense their presence, but everyone also knew Emily was expecting Sam back. It was still strange how the setup was around
La Push, though they were slowly getting used to it.
“Why did they go to
California again?” Jared asked, leaning back against a tree, suddenly thinking
about Mikayla for some reason.
“All Sam said was it
was something about this ‘threat’.” Jacob did the quotation marks with his
fingers, not believing a word Sam said lately. “I think it’s time we did our
own investigation about it and find out if they’re lying to us.”
“You honestly think
Sam would lie to us?” Seth was hesitant, having chosen the pack over the
Cullens, as hard as it was. “Maybe we’re just jumping to conclusions…”
“As usual.” Leah
sighed, wanting to slap her brother upside the head. “Open your damn eyes,
Seth! They are definitely hiding
something from us! Did you notice how
hesitant Sam was while talking to us? He
didn’t even believe what he was spewing.”
“She’s gotta point,
Seth.” Jacob ran a hand through his hair, looking over his shoulder in the
woods, eyebrows drawing together. “I know they’re lying to us.”
“Well what are we going
to do then?” Jared was tired of the games as well, just wanting this to be put
behind them, looking to Jacob for the answer. “If they are lying to us that
would be grounds for a new alpha.”
“I would take over.”
Jacob said it with indifference, knowing he wouldn’t have a choice, and turned
fully around as he leaned his arm against the nearest tree. Why were Sam and Paul lying to them? What were they really going to Nevada for, if
that was even where they were going?
Something told Jacob that was a lie too, eyes narrowing to slits.
“Jared, I think we need to follow them tomorrow morning to wherever they’re
going.”
“You don’t think
they’re going to Nevada either do you?” It wasn’t a question because Jared had
been thinking the exact same thing.
“What if they are
telling the truth?” Embry asked suddenly, becoming nervous, not wanting the
pack to be deceiving each other. They
would be no better than bloodsuckers if that were the case. “I mean shouldn’t
we trust Sam until he gives us a reason not to?”
“Embry, if you don’t
want to be involved in this, then leave.
They are lying to us or have you not noticed how skittish Sam has acted
lately?” Jacob growled, turning his head to face one of his best friends,
arching an eyebrow. “You know as well as I do they’re not going to Nevada or
Sam wouldn’t take this big of a chance by just taking hotheaded Paul with him.”
Embry sighed, nodding,
knowing Jacob made several good points. “Who do you want to go?” He asked
quietly, looking at Quil apprehensively, wondering if they were doing the right
thing.
Jacob thought about it
for a few minutes, staying silent, finally deciding on who it would be. “Jared
and I will go. Embry and Quil, I need
you two to search through Emily’s house.
She’ll be gone tomorrow for a few hours helping Sue with something in
Forks. Do not ransack it, but see if you
can find anything that might get us closer to the truth.”
“What about us?” Leah
demanded, stepping forward, eyes narrowed to slits. “Don’t you even THINK about
leaving us out of this, Jacob Black! We’re a part of this pack as much as you
are!”
“Leah, chill out.”
Jared grunted, not having a problem following Paul and Sam to wherever they
were going. “We’ll need someone here to watch the reservation.”
“So you want us to be
watchdogs?” Leah was getting pissed fast, already feeling her tendons lighting
on fire, but Jacob immediately extinguished it.
Jacob took three long
strides toward her, bending down to be eye level with Leah, not touching her because
of how angry he already was. “Listen to me and listen good, Leah, we still have
a job to do here and that’s protect the reservation. So you either get your head together or just
get out.”
Leah blinked, never
seeing Jacob in this state of mind, and mutely nodded before her and Seth took
off toward Emily’s for the get together.
“Now then, does anyone
else have any objections or issues?”
Chapter 13
At the last possible
second, before anyone came to Emily’s, Kirstyn changed into a long sleeved amber
colored top with blue jeans, leaving her black gloves on. She knew if anyone caught her wearing her
‘rags’, as Emily once called them, that they would instantly raise
suspicion. She had to pretend absolutely
nothing was wrong if this was going to work out, if she was going to leave
without a trace.
After all, she
technically didn’t exist.
Kirstyn took a deep
breath, hearing Emily walk through the door, and looked in the mirror one last
time. “Do not blow this.” She whispered, plastering a smile on her face, having
put on thin blue eyeliner with shimmery eye shadow that matched her shirt and
clear gloss.
Mikayla would be
proud, which made a sad smile cross her lips, but immediately changed it. She had to be strong and get through this,
knowing if Sam and Paul found out she knew anything, they would more than
likely dispose of her. Swallowing hard
and taking one last breath, Kirstyn walked out of the bathroom and smiled at
Emily, who was busy getting everything together.
“Oh hey Kirstyn!” She
greeted excitedly, already dressed in blue jeans with an off the shoulder
orange top that accented her russet toned skin nicely. “Will you help me with a
few things honey?”
“Sure.” Kirstyn
nodded, walking over, and nodded when Emily asked if she cleaned the house.
“Why would you do
that?”
Kirstyn shrugged
nonchalantly, keeping that soft smile on her face. “No reason, I was bored and
decided I wanted to do something nice for you.”
Emily grinned and hugged
Kirstyn by the shoulders, sighing gently. “You are truly a blessing in this
house. Thank you Kirstyn.” She said
before beginning to bring the dishes out.
“No problem.”
Kirstyn felt a twinge
of pain in her heart, knowing she was really going to miss
Emily almost as much as Mikayla. She was
the only person Kirstyn truly trusted, besides Jacob, who accepted her and
believed what happened with Eric.
Somehow, Kirstyn knew Emily had no idea about Sam’s deception, deciding
she would let Sam be the one to reveal the truth.
After they got the
guacamole ready, which was homemade, Kirstyn took it outside and lit the tiki
torches, even though it was a chilly night.
They hardly had to worry about bugs due to the constant cold weather,
which Kirstyn would surprisingly miss as well.
Then again, that’s all she’d ever known for the past four years of her
life. Looking up when she heard
footsteps, Kirstyn immediately tensed at the sight of Sam and Paul, trying hard
not to glare at them.
“Hey Kirstyn.” Sam greeted
friendly, already heading up the stairs, Paul not saying a word to her as
usual.
The audacity of this
prick to pretend like he wasn’t two faced!
Kirstyn had to fight
to keep from letting her mouth write a check she knew her ass couldn’t cash,
simply nodding at him. Kirstyn hardly
spoke a word to Sam so that was the normal, which was a good thing because the
only words Kirstyn wanted to use involved every cuss word in the English
language. This was going to be harder
than Kirstyn thought, but she had to get through this, finishing setting up for
Emily.
“What’re you doing?”
Mikayla asked, walking up and startling Kirstyn out of her thoughts, frowning
at how jumpy her best friend was. “What’s going on?”
“Nothing, you just
scared me is all.” Kirstyn smiled back at Mikayla, nodding at Jared, who walked
over to give her a hug. Mikayla still
hadn’t told Jared how she truly felt about him, but had a feeling it was coming
sooner rather than later. “Kayla, would you mind grabbing the other end of this
tablecloth?”
“Sure…” Mikayla
shrugged off the sinking feeling, deciding she was just being paranoid, and
helped Kirstyn set the last table. “So what’s this party about anyway?”
“Something about a
ritual. I don’t really know. I guess they have it whenever there’s a full
moon.” Kirstyn shrugged, looking up at Jared, who walked inside the house.
“Hmmm sounds
intriguing.” Mikayla walked over and grinned at Kirstyn, seeing she wore
something other than black. “You look fantastic tonight, girl! Jacob won’t know what to do when he sees
you!”
Kirstyn shrugged,
already knowing she would have to play dumb around Jacob, trying to mentally
and emotionally prepare for it. “Yeah, I figured I’d try to look presentable.”
She rolled her eyes when Mikayla laughed, who looked like a glamour goddess as
always.
Mikayla wore a
beautiful blood red satiny top that had a banded hem and gathered her sides in
a secure fit. It was a drape neck
fashion with a sexy, skin revealing lace back that had a keyhole detail. She wore form fitting dark blue jeans and a
black leather jacket with two inch black stylish boots. Her hair was down and curled at the ends,
pink gloss and black eyeliner outlining her violet orbs. She looked stunning as always and, as usual,
Kirstyn felt very self conscious.
“Chin up.” Mikayla
ordered, wrapping a secure arm around Kirstyn’s shoulders, trying to shake away
the uneasy feeling she currently had. “Does Em need help with anything else?”
“I don’t know, let’s
go check.” They started up the stairs when rumbling came from behind, both
girls turning around.
Kirstyn couldn’t stop
smiling at the sight of Jacob, who wore a form fitting black short sleeved shirt with dark blue
jeans and black boots, having rolled in on his motorcycle. He looked absolutely amazing straddling the
black motorcycle, the jeans fitting him like a second skin and it looked as
though his arms were going to bust out of the shirt at any given moment. She had to learn how to breathe again and
slowly walked toward him, Mikayla giving her a small nudge, eyes locked on the
man who would always have her heart.
Jacob was thinking the
exact same thing as he watched Kirstyn walking toward him, not believing how
spectacular she looked. The shirt she
wore clung to every curve of her body, which had improved since he brought here
to La Push. She no longer looked like a
stick figure, which he loved, a smile crossing his full red lips. She looked alive, though something was hidden
in those cobalt blue orbs the closer she came.
He couldn’t help it and reached out, pulling her against him and lowered
his lips, capturing her lips in a searing kiss that burned her right down to
the core.
When Jacob broke the
kiss, Kirstyn was absolutely breathless and stumbled back as he dismounted the
bike, his arm still securely around her waist.
She felt dizzy and gasped when his lips descended on hers again, this
time both of his huge arms engulfing her, pulling her even tighter against him. Kirstyn could only grip his arms to keep from
falling over, even though she knew Jacob wouldn’t let that happen.
“Come with me.” He
breathed when that heated kiss broke, this time it being Kirstyn because she
needed air, already pulling her back toward the bike.
“W-What about the
party?” Kirstyn couldn’t even think straight, the heat from Jacob’s body
causing her senses to reel and moaned when he kissed her for a third time.
“Screw it, they won’t
miss us.” Jacob growled, just wanting to be alone with Kirstyn, not believing
the intense effect this chestnut haired angel had on him. “Come with me, Kirs.”
How the hell was she
supposed to deny him that request, especially with the pleading look in those
beautiful dark eyes of his? Kirstyn knew
they were her ultimate weakness, looking behind her shoulder at Emily’s house,
chewing her bottom lip. This would be
the time to say goodbye to Jacob and Kirstyn wasn’t going to pass it up as she
looked back at Jacob with a soft smile, nodding.
“That’s my angel.” He
murmured in a low voice, lifting her up with ease by her waist, planting her to
straddle his lap as he started the bike up.
He felt her wrap her
arms tightly around his waist, face burying in his neck, and groaned from low
in his throat. She was going to be the
death of him. Jacob looked up just as Emily,
Sam, Paul, Mikayla and Jared walked out, Leah and Seth coming out of the woods
moments later, smirking at all of them before whipping the bike toward the
exit, dust flying. He waved with one
hand, his back to them, and took off into the night with Kirstyn clinging to
him for dear life.
Emily was not happy as
she folded her arms in front of her chest, eyes narrowed. “He just kidnapped
her!” She barked, sounding indignant, and elbowed Sam when he started laughing.
“That is NOT funny!”
Mikayla and Jared were
leaning against each other rolling with laughter, Jared whistling in a crude
way, shaking his head. “That’s the Jake we know!” He crowed, holding Mikayla
tightly against him, who could not stop laughing for the life of her.
Leah and Seth didn’t
even want to know what happened, going to help out Emily with anything else she
needed for the usual ritual get together.
“Do I dare ask?” Embry
asked, walking up moments later with Quil. “Because we just saw Jacob racing down
the road with Kirstyn, which tells us they won’t be attending tonight.”
“You’re correct.”
Jared was trying so hard not to start laughing again, thoroughly amused with
Jacob stunt, but Mikayla did first and that set him off. “Jake kidnapped her!”
Embry and Quil started laughing, hearing Emily’s growl from inside, and that
just sent them into bigger fits of hilarity.
~!~
Jacob arrived at the
destination a few minutes later, both of them on the other side of La Push,
wanting to be completely alone with Kirstyn.
He cut the ignition of the bike, feeling her instantly relax against
him, and held her tightly. He didn’t
know why, but Jacob felt like they had to do this before it was too late.
For what he wasn’t
sure and kissed her temple softly.
Reluctantly pulling
away from her, Jacob dismounted the bike with ease, helping Kirstyn off and
kept an arm around her waist. She
probably never rode a motorcycle before and he could feel her trembling against
him, knowing her thighs felt as though they’d give out on her. He helped her walk it off, knowing carrying
her would just make it worse, and guided her toward the beautiful waterfall he
found where they would be comfortable.
He spotted this place a few days ago while patrolling and knew she’d
love it.
“Are you okay?” He
asked in her ear, causing Kirstyn to nod, her mind somewhat cleared from
Jacob’s earlier kisses.
“Yeah.” She smiled up
at him, immediately swallowing hard as that same hunger and fire in his dark
eyes flared. “Jake…”
She couldn’t even get
out what she wanted to say before his lips were on hers again, kissing her with
a fiery passion she didn’t know existed.
His body was on fire and currently lighting hers ablaze, pressing her
compactly against his muscular chest, the heat overwhelming her. Kirstyn couldn’t stop herself from kissing
him back, running her hand up his chest to his shoulder and in his hair,
gripping it, standing on her tiptoes to reach
him.
Jacob growled, feeling
her fingers grip his wet hair, the kiss intensifying. His tongue instantly delved in her warm
mouth, searching and reaching every crevice he could reach. He loved hearing her soft sighs and moans,
the feeling of her body melting against his almost too much for Jacob to
take. He slowly lowered to the soft
grass below, pulling her with him, never once breaking the kiss, knowing his
body was all she would need to stay completely warm.
“Kirs…” He rumbled in
her ear, running his hand across her stomach, the shirt having ridden up and
groaned at her soft skin against his touch.
He couldn’t help it and kissed her again, knowing she was like a fine
wine and he was a raging alcoholic craving more.
Kirstyn was in
complete heaven, feeling Jacob hovering over her, just wanting to freeze this
moment and have it never end. Her
fingers became lost in his shaggy black hair as his lips sealed to her neck,
not able to control the deep moans that escaped her. Her body arched against him, feeling his hand
slowly trail up from her stomach to her material covered breasts, beginning to
massage one of them.
“How far do you wanna
go?” Jacob’s breath was hot against her neck and earlobe, flicking it with his
tongue, trying to control his own raging body.
It was very hard to do so, especially when she was so responsive to his
administrations. “Kirstyn, tell me to stop…”
“No.” Kirstyn wanted
this, knowing this would be the bittersweet goodbye she was aiming for, eyes
drifting shut as the warmth rushed over her.
She wanted to give herself completely to Jacob for just this one night,
refusing to hold anything back, knowing this was her only chance.
If she passed it up,
she’d never gain another shot.
Jacob pulled back to
remove his shirt, pulling it over his head, his beautiful muscular body glowing
in the moonlight that barely shone through the trees. He was so perfect and sculpted like a
masterpiece, rock hard and yet gentle all at the same time. The sound of the waterfall beside them made
the moment that much more perfect as Kirstyn sat up as well, removing her
shirt, showing him she wasn’t afraid, that she wanted him as much as he wanted
her. Jacob felt his chest constrict at
the look in her eyes, which were clouded over with pure desire and love for
him, almost black.
His were the same way.
“I love you.” Jacob
stated powerfully, wanting her to know that this went deeper than just the
sexual nature. “I’m in love with you, Kirstyn.
That’s why I brought you here tonight.
I wanted to bring you somewhere and do this privately, just the two of
us.” He was breathing heavily, gauging her reaction, wondering if it was too
soon since they never even made it to the movies.
Kirstyn felt tears
sting her eyes, not believing he just said that, her own heart aching
painfully. Leaving was going to be even
harder to do, but Kirstyn knew she had to do it. There was no turning back, but Kirstyn didn’t
want to think about that as she scooted closer to Jacob, cupping his face with
her soft hand.
“I’m in love with you
too, Jacob.” She whispered, a tear sliding down her cheek, and sighed when he
leaned forward to brush it away with those soft lips.
Moving her head to
capture his lips, Kirstyn felt her back connect with the grass, wrapping her
arms around his neck, completely losing herself in him. Kirstyn knew Jacob would be hurt again, but
at the same time, this was for the best, especially since Paul and Sam wouldn’t
stop until they uncovered something about her.
She had nothing to hide, but she no longer felt safe here, even though
Jacob had nothing to do with the deception…as far as she knew. If he did, it didn’t matter because she
honestly didn’t blame him, knowing the story was surreal and most wouldn’t
believe it.
Clothes flew every
which way, both of them giving themselves to each other.
It was truly a night
and experience Kirstyn would keep with her until the day she passed on.
Chapter 14
~Kayla,
By the time you read this, I won’t be in La Push or
anywhere near here. I’m leaving and
there’s a good reason for it. In the
manila envelope I left you are all of your personal records and information
that Sam and Paul somehow managed to acquire.
They’ve been investigating and trying to find dirt
on us for awhile and I found out about it.
I know you’ll probably hate me for doing this, but I don’t feel safe in
La Push anymore. I don’t even feel safe
with Jacob anymore because I know he looks up to Sam and would believe him over
me.
Why wouldn’t he?
I’m just a girl he found in Canada with a story that is unbelievable,
but true all the same. I have no reason
to lie to anyone about what happened to me, but obviously Paul and Sam seem to
think we’re conspiring against them with the Cullens.
I think that’s the family Bella married into,
right? I’m not leaving this note to try
to hurt you, but you had the right to know that they were violating your
privacy and trying to violate mine. They
won’t find anything and there’s a reason for that. Eric burned everything that made me exist in
front of me in a fire while I was strapped to a chair. He said without anyone knowing I exist, I can
only be there for his needs and wants.
My birth certificate, social security number,
records, everything was destroyed, which is why Sam and Paul left this morning
to go back to California. They’re going to
talk to your dad about me and try to find some kind of information that they
can use against me to make me leave La Push.
They don’t want me here and, for the life of me, I don’t know why
they’re going to all this trouble when all they had to do was ask me to leave
and I would’ve done it in a heartbeat.
I really hope you don’t hate me for this letter,
Kayla, but I had to leave. How could I
stay in a place I’m clearly not wanted?
I have a feeling that if they can’t find what they’re looking for through
Jim, they’ll track Eric down and he would eventually find me in La Push. So I’m leaving for my benefit as well as the
others on the reservation because Eric will stop at NOTHING to capture me
again. The man is capable of murder and
Sandra is the prime example of that.
I don’t know if Jared and Jacob are involved in
this, so please don’t leave Jared until you find out for sure. Talk to him first, don’t blow up and accuse
him of something he may or may not be involved with. Believe me, I know he loves and you love him
so don’t screw up your happiness because I left.
There’s one more thing I need to ask of you before
I end this letter. I know I have no
right to ask anything from you, especially since I left without even saying so
much as a goodbye, but I didn’t expect Jacob to whisk me away last night
either. Please, if he has nothing to do
with this deception, watch over him for me and make sure he doesn’t do
something crazy.
I know Bella really hurt him and I’m doing the same
thing, but I will always love him no matter what. I never meant to hurt him like this. I love him with everything inside of me and
it kills me to leave him like this, but he can thank Sam and Paul for
that. They’re the ones who proved to me
I couldn’t feel safe here anymore and drove me out of La Push and away from
him.
I think that’s everything. Oh, will you tell Emily that I left
everything in the closet that she bought for me when I first arrived in La
Push? I’d really appreciate if you could
to that too, if she hasn’t already found out I’m gone. Also, please tell her that I appreciate
everything she’s done for me and I don’t think anything bad about her because I
know she had nothing to do with this.
She was like a mother to me, a real mother, and I will always love her
for it.
Kayla, you are and will always be my sister. I never forgot about you and always wondered
how you turned out, if you were happy and safe.
I’m blessed to see the person you’ve become and I know your father is
very proud too. I love you Mikayla and I
know you’ll forgive me for this someday.
Who knows? Maybe we’ll find our
way to each other again in the future, which I’m looking very forward to it.
Your Sister Forever,
Kirstyn (Kir)
Mikayla could not believe
the words she was reading, tears streaming down her face, covering her mouth
with a trembling hand. She must’ve
reread the letter at least five times, wondering if she was having a nightmare,
hoping she woke up and everything was fine.
She finally felt the paper slip from her hand, wrapping her arms around
herself, and proceeded to sob her heart out.
How could Sam and Paul
do this to them?
They never did
anything or gave the slightest notion they were trying to hurt them! Mikayla felt sick to her stomach and rushed
to the bathroom, emptying the contents of her stomach, wondering where Jared
was. She remembered he said something
about leaving for a few days the previous night, not thinking anything of it,
and suddenly felt her eyes narrow.
If Jared was involved
in this deception, she would never speak to him again and be on the first
flight back to Los Angeles. He was the
only reason she came back because she felt she couldn’t live without him. Mikayla would first kick his teeth down his throat
and then leave, refusing to go quietly because she would just end up letting
the anger eat away at her until she exploded on the wrong person one day.
Her ringing cell phone
brought Mikayla out of her thoughts as she walked out of the bathroom, washing
her mouth out, and flipped it open. “Hello?” She croaked, trying to stop
crying.
“Mikayla, where are
you?!” Jared’s voice sounded absolutely frantic, pacing like a caged animal
back and forth.
“I’m at home.” Mikayla
sniffled, blowing her nose, refusing to hide how much pain she was in. “What’s
going on? I thought you were supposed to
be leaving today.”
“Change of plans.”
Jared let out the biggest sigh of relief, glad to know Mikayla was safe and
sound. “Look, you need to get down here immediately. I can’t tell you what’s going on over the
phone because I don’t want you getting into a car accident on the way here.”
Mikayla sighed
heavily, nodding, already knowing why Jared wanted her to come to La Push.
“Where?” She asked, looking out the window, wondering and hoping Kirstyn was
alright.
“Emily’s. Please get here soon sweetheart. I love you.” Jared hung up the phone, causing
Mikayla to lower her own, fresh tears sliding down her cheeks.
The previous night,
after everyone else left the ritual bonfire, Jared finally told Mikayla
everything he wanted, including being a shape shifter. Mikayla at first laughed at him, thinking he
was messing with her, but when Jared phased in front of her into a beautiful
brown wolf, she couldn’t help believing him.
At first she wanted to run and scream, but somehow Jared managed to keep
her grounded. When he phased back into
human form, Jared explained to her about the tribe’s legend and whatnot,
finally getting to the subject of imprinting.
Mikayla will still
having a hard time believing all of this, but how could she not when the truth
was literally right in front of her?
Basically, they were meant to be together, that he would never love
anyone as much as her and it was ultimately her
decision if she wanted to be with him forever or not. Mikayla told him that she’d been in love with
him since high school, voicing her fears that she had to Kirstyn about being
rejected.
“I could never, ever
reject you, Mika.”
Sighing, Mikayla refused
to shower as she pulled on a pair of black jeans with a black hooded
sweatshirt, wearing a red tank top underneath.
She was pissed and pulled her hair up in a messy bun, refusing to even
do her makeup. Grabbing the letter,
manila envelope, her keys, cell phone and purse, Mikayla stalked out of her
apartment, slid in the car and fired it up as she peeled off toward La
Push. If Sam and Paul were there, she
was going to kick the living hell out of them.
Jared was waiting for
her when she pulled up ten minutes later, the squealing tires giving him the
indication she was not happy. He blinked
when she stepped out of the car, slamming the door shut with authority,
swallowing hard. Something happened and
Jared actually backed up when she stalked toward him, clutching something in
her hand.
“Mika, what the-” He
grunted when she smacked the manila envelope, blinking since it actually stung,
and watched her walk inside Emily’s.
“Where the fuck is
your no good, lying sack of horseshit, two faced bitch of a man Emily?” Mikayla
demanded, violet eyes lit on fire, seeing the shock filter Emily’s already tear
streaked face. “Don’t pretend like you don’t fucking know what that piece of
shit did to my best friend!!”
Emily blinked several
times, not having a clue what Mikayla was talking about, eyes widened.
“Mikayla, I don’t know what you’re talking about. How did you know-” She cringed when Mikayla
took the manila envelope away from Jared, who silently stood behind her, Jacob
standing there looking like he was about to rip someone’s head off.
“What the hell is
going on?” Jacob growled, narrowing his eyes at Mikayla, watching as she pulled
out a white piece of paper and slammed it in front of Emily.
“Read it NOW!” Mikayla
shouted, literally trembling from head to toe, and shoved Jared away when he
tried touching her. “Don’t even THINK about it Jared! I don’t want to be comforted or touched right
now!”
Tears slid down
Mikayla’s cheeks as she folded her arms in front of her chest, tapping her foot
impatiently as Emily’s eyes grew wider and wider, fresh tears erupting the
further she read. She had the exact same
expression and reaction that Mikayla had when she first read the words, a look
of sheer disbelief crossing her features.
Mikayla pursed her lips tightly together, refusing to take her eyes from
Emily, and watched as the paper floated to the floor below.
“How could he do
this?” Emily whispered in sheer incredulity, shaking her head as Jacob snatched
the paper up and began reading it.
Jared gauged the look
on Jacob’s face and speared Mikayla to the floor when a lamp came hurling
through the air, whizzing above their bodies and crashing against the
wall. He cringed when a roar followed,
knowing whatever that letter said wasn’t good, wondering what the hell Paul and
Sam did. He felt Mikayla shove him away
and sighed, both of them standing up, Jared waiting for the phase to happen.
“THAT NO GOOD SON OF A
BITCH!! WHAT THE FUCK WAS HE
THINKING?! I’LL RIP HIM APART EMILY, DO
YOU HEAR ME? YOU WILL NO LONGER HAVE A
FUCKING FIANCE BECAUSE, I SWEAR ON THIS TRIBE, I WILL KILL HIM FOR FORCING HER
AWAY!! SHE’S IN EVEN MORE DANGER NOW
BECAUSE OF HIS STUPIDITY!”
Mikayla watched as
Jacob took off out of the door, trembling from the outburst because she could
literally FEEL how angry Jacob was.
Jared groaned, slapping his face and walked over, picking up the piece
of paper and began to read it. In no
time flat, Jared followed Jacob and phased as soon as he was outside, pissed
beyond belief.
“I swear to you on
this tribe I had NO idea what they were planning, Mikayla. I swear!” Emily cried, burying her face in
her hands, not believing how deceptive Sam could be. There was no excuse for this and she suddenly
felt like her entire world was turned upside down.
Mikayla did not move
to comfort the woman, though she did believe what Emily said. The woman looked way too distraught and
heartbroken for it not to be true. She
walked over and picked up the manila envelope, along with the letter, sliding
it inside with a snort.
“I really hope Jake
does rip Sam to shreds. He doesn’t
deserve to be the leader of this group.
Sam is nothing but a piece of shit, Emily. He’s lower than a piece of shit, he’s lower
than fungus! He’s lower than a rotten
banana peel or egg for that matter and smells of it too! So is Paul!
Both of them better hope and pray to whatever gods they believe in that
I don’t get my hands on them because, I swear if I do, I don’t care if they
shift into fucking Godzilla, I WILL end them!
I just lost my best friend from my childhood because of their stupid,
ridiculous assumptions about us betraying everyone! We have no reason to do that, never once did
I give any indication that I wanted any harm to come to any of you! I love Jared and I know he and Jacob were not
involved in this. I swear though, if I
find out you were a part of this down the road, I will kill you, bury you six
feet under and piss on your damn ashes alongside Sam’s!”
Mikayla stormed out of
the house, leaving Emily with those thoughts, and got in her car as she peeled
out of there. The squealing of tires
could be heard for miles on end, dirt and gravel spraying against the house,
but Mikayla didn’t care. She was worried
sick about Kirstyn, wondering where she could’ve gone, once again feeling huge
tears slide down her cheeks.
At the very least
Jared was not involved in this deception and neither was Jacob, but Mikayla
didn’t know about the others. She knew
Quil, Embry, Seth and Leah probably still had no idea that Kirstyn was gone if
they weren’t involved. The more Mikayla
thought about Sam and Paul, the harder she punched on the gas, flying down the
road at top speed.
She didn’t care about
anything at this point and skidded to a halt on the beach, leaving the ignition
running. Pulling her sweatshirt off and
tossing it behind her, Mikayla began running as fast as her legs could carry
her, the anger completely overwhelming every sense. Leaping into the air as high as she could go,
Mikayla closed her eyes as every nerve ending seemed to split in her body and
landed back on the sand as a beautiful, dark blood red wolf with glowing violet
eyes.
Chapter 15
Jake! Jake,
wait a minute man! Stop!
WHAT? Jacob practically roared in Jared’s
head, the anger consuming every single part of his big body.
In all the time Jared
had known Jacob, he’d never seen the man this angry and took a few steps back. Jake, you have to calm down…
NO I DON’T!
HOW CAN I POSSIBLY STAY CALM KNOWING KIRSTYN IS OUT THERE SOMEWHERE ALONE
AND IN DANGER? HOW CAN I CALM DOWN
KNOWING SAM AND PAUL LIED TO US REPEATEDLY?
Jared groaned,
wondering if turning back to human form would be better, because it felt like
his head was going to explode from Jacob’s bellowing. He already knew he’d have a headache from it
later and took a deep breath, knowing Jacob wanted to rip Sam and Paul
apart. Hell, he did too, but the first
priority was finding out who else could be involved.
What do you mean someone ELSE could be involved? Jacob hissed, eyes
narrowed to slits, for once grateful that he could hear Jared’s thoughts. Do you know something Jared? Because I swear on this tribe, if you do, I
will rip YOU to shreds!
Knock it off! Jared was tired of the bullying,
having a feeling he knew what he’d have to do, and closed his eyes. Jake, you have to calm down if we’re going
to talk about this.
STOP SAYING THAT!
I CAN’T CALM DOWN BECAUSE I’M SO PISSED OFF I’M PROBABLY TWO HUNDRED
DEGREES RIGHT NOW!
This is why you need to CALM DOWN! Jared shouted and
lunged, catching Jacob off guard as they both went toppling through the woods,
trees knocking down like they were dominoes.
Jacob snarled and
snapped his teeth, biting Jared’s neck while Jared went for his ear, both of
them shrieking out in pain. They let
each other go and stood up on their back legs, beginning to scrap with razor
sharp claws, growling viciously. Jared
knew this was the only way to calm Jacob down, that he could think of, and went
with it as they continued fighting.
You’re acting like a jackass right now!
Same goes for you pup! Jacob sneered as they
shoved off of each other, turning in a slow circle.
When Jacob went in to
pin Jared, the brown wolf moved just in the nick of time as Jacob smacked into
a very old oak tree that immediately cracked and fell, hitting the earth below
with a sickening, very loud rumble.
Jared knew that one hurt Jacob and slowly moved toward him, coughing out
a sigh as the russet colored wolf slowly got to his feet, after healing from
broken ribs and anything else. That was
a hard hit because Jacob was the second to the biggest in the pack with the
longest hair, not to mention the most gifted.
Sorry I did that, but I had to find a way to calm
you down, Jake. Jared sighed, waiting for Jacob to stand again, knowing the
man had to be broken up about Kirstyn leaving.
Hell, Jared didn’t
know what he would do if Mikayla ever did something like that.
You’d probably go after her. Jacob’s deep voice
resonated through Jared’s head, a deeper sigh escaping him, eyes narrowing. Like I will be doing.
Jake, you can’t just go after her right away.
Why the hell not? Jacob demanded, fur
standing on edge, though he really didn’t feel up to colliding with another
tree that damned near crushed his ribcage.
He was thankful for the unbelievably fast healing powers that came with
being a protector.
Look we WILL go after Kirstyn, but right now we
have to deal with what’s happening to our pack.
Mika said something about Sam and Paul going to talk to her dad in California. We should go there first, kick Sam and Paul’s
heads off, and then go after Kirstyn.
Her dad might know something we don’t about her whereabouts.
As much as Jacob hated
to admit this, he knew Jared was right and hated his friend for it. He just wanted Kirstyn back in his arms, the
pain clear as day in his dark eyes.
Remembering when he woke up by the spring where he took her the previous
night, only to find an empty spot.
She’d left him after
their love making, which lasted several hours.
Jacob was wondering how Kirstyn was able to stand, let alone run away
from him, because he was still feeling the after effects from it. Now he had to deal with a broken heart
because another girl decided to leave him.
Maybe I shouldn’t go after her. Jacob thought about
Bella then, something he hadn’t done in the past few months that Kirstyn was in
his life, shaking his head.
What do you mean? Jared was confused,
walking over as they both sat down on the ground, staring straight ahead into
the woods they knew well and patrolled night and day.
She obviously doesn’t want to be with me or trust
me to protect her. Why should I waste my
energy on another Bella, Jared? Jacob growled, standing up, knowing
he had bigger fish to fry with Sam and Paul.
He wouldn’t go after them in California, they would come back to La Push
and get the welcome home beating of a lifetime.
Jared physically
cringed when Jacob called Kirstyn that, though it did made sense somewhat. Bella left Jacob to be with a bloodsucker,
which she was now one too, and Kirstyn left him just the same. Jared wondered though if Kirstyn thought
Jacob was in on the whole deception from Sam and Paul, a growl simultaneously
coming from each wolf.
Jake, you have to go after her. You love her and you’ve imprinted. No matter what you say or do, you will NEVER
get her out of your head. Bella wasn’t
the one for you, but Kirstyn is. Jared knew he was probably hurting
Jacob with these words, but they had to be said because he remembered how much
pain his friend went through when Bella came to La Push and told him that she
chose Edward over him.
HELP!!
SOMEONE HELP ME!! OH MY
GOD!! OH MY FUCKING GOD, WHAT THE HELL
IS GOING ON???
Mika? Jared blinked as he stared at Jacob,
wondering if he was hearing the same thing. Do
you hear that?
Jacob nodded, looking
more confused than ever, wondering why the hell he was hearing Mikayla’s voice
running through his head. Okay that’s
really strange…
OH MY GOD, I’M THIS HIDEOUS BEAST!! I’M NOT HUMAN!! OH MY GOD, SOMEONE HELP ME!!
Mikayla was a
WOLF? Jared knew he was face palming at
that moment along with Jacob, both of them in utter shock just as a beautiful,
blood red colored wolf came zipping through the woods past them. She landed on all fours with grace, turning
around in circles, snapping her teeth and Jared knew she was freaking out.
Mika? Mika
can you hear me?
The blood red wolf
stopped at once, back facing them, trembling from the top of her head to the
tips of her paws. Jared? The wolf slowly
turned to face them and Jared gasped as those violet eyes shimmered with
tears. He immediately raced over to her,
his slick brown fur glistening from the workout Jacob put him through.
Mika? Is
that you? Nod your head once if it is
sweetheart.
The wolf did and Jared
instantly nuzzled her neck, breathing in the scent that was only her, not
believing this was happening. Mikayla
was a wolf, how the hell was that possible?
Could things possibly get any more bizarre because Jared wasn’t sure how
much more he could take?
Jared, what’s happening to me? Mikayla let out a
screeching howl that echoed through the trees, feeling as though her heart
would fly out of her chest, the heat radiating throughout her body. Jared, please help me!! I don’t want to be a wolf!!
Jared’s heart broke
for her, wishing there was something he could do, though he honestly couldn’t
stop thinking how stunning she was. Jared,
now is not the time. We have to make her
phase and get her to Billy’s. Somewhere
along the way, she obviously gained the gene.
We’ll look into her family background, see if Billy knows anything. Jacob
was already heading behind a tree, knowing Jared would have to be the one to
calm Mikayla down enough to make her phase back into a human.
Mika, listen to me.
I need you to calm down…
CALM DOWN?!
What do you mean calm down?! I’m
a hideous wolf, Jared and you want me to CALM DOWN?!
Yes otherwise you won’t be able to phase back into
a human.
Another screeching
howl full of pain echoed through the woods as Mikayla started crying, shaking
her head back and forth, absolutely despising this
change. Oh god please, please I don’t
want this. Why the hell am I a wolf? Violet
eyes suddenly turned dark as she turned on Jared, shoving him away, wanting to
rip his head off. YOU did this to
me!! We had sex and you made me into a
wolf!!
That night at Emily’s
gathering, confession wasn’t the only thing that happened between the two.
Jared blinked,
wondering if Mikayla had completely lost her mind. No I didn’t!! You can’t just
pass the gene along after a romp in the hay!!
You obviously have the gene that was passed down in your family
history!!
A romp in the hay? Jacob hadn’t phased
yet and coughed several times, their way of laughing in wolf form. Wow
Jared, that’s original.
Can it Black. Jared growled, feeling very
frustrated by all of this, knowing he had to get Mikayla to phase before taking
her to Billy’s. Mikayla, I didn’t do this
to you. Now you can either stand there
and throw accusations at everyone, or be an ADULT, phase back into human form,
and come with us to Jake’s place to figure this out.
Yeah uh huh, I know you did this because you even
told me that while being a wolf, you don’t age.
So you wanted me to stay with you forever as a hideous monster!! Mikayla couldn’t stop
another howl, looking back and forth, before her eyes darted downward to her
paws. This is AWFUL!!
She’s lost her mind Jake. She can’t phase back like this… Jared groaned, remembering
how difficult it was for him to adjust to this change, and how much time it
took to phase back into a human. He was
a wolf for three solid days, but Sam was there to help him through it,
supporting him.
Jacob sighed and
stepped up to the plate, knowing he would have to calm Mikayla down. STOP! He roared in her head, causing
Mikayla to instantly stop, standing frozen like a
statue with deep violet eyes. Jared was
the exact same way and Jacob knew right then and there he was the new alpha of
his own pack, that he’d left Sam’s.
Mikayla whimpered,
lowering her head, the anger slowly draining from her body because exhaustion
hit right afterward. Jared…
Mikayla, if you want answers, you have to phase
back. The way to do that is completely
relax your body and think of yourself as a human. Your human self and then leap into the
air. It’ll take several tries, but you
should get it. Jacob explained, stepping back along with Jared, who was no
longer frozen. You have to be completely
relaxed, Mikayla. No anger.
Okay no anger… Mikayla wondered if she could do
this after everything that’d transpired already that day. Did Kirstyn really leave the exact same day
she phased into this hideous beast?
No negative thoughts either. Jacob growled, the
mention of Kirstyn’s name sending a twinge of pain to shoot through his furry
body. Now focus!
Mikayla nodded and
closed her eyes, lowering her head as she tried thinking of something
positive. No matter how hard she tried
though, the only thing she could really think of was Kirstyn and how much she
missed her. Jared was in there too, all
of them happy and peaceful. Within
seconds, the blood red wolf leapt into the air, doing a back flip, and Mikayla
could feel skin take over fur before landing on her feet. Jared and Jacob had phased the same she did,
shoving their shorts on that were behind the tree. Jared covered Jacob’s eyes because Mikayla
was completely stark naked, violet eyes bulging out to the size of potatoes.
“Where the hell are my
clothes?!” Mikayla shouted, covering herself the best she could, though it was
impossible. She was shocked she wasn’t
cold though, especially when it was only thirty degrees outside currently. “JARED!”
“I-I-Uh…I’ll b-be
right back!” Jacob took off running and howled with laughter when he knew he
was a far enough distance away, going to Emily’s. He didn’t explain, just walked in, seeing
Emily was gone. “Probably down at Sue’s.” He muttered, going to the bag of
clothes he knew Kirstyn left behind. In
no time flat, Jacob was back in the woods with panties, shirt and jeans. “I
didn’t know what size you were up top…”
“Oh thank you very
much and you never will either!” Mikayla spat angrily, already feeling her
tendons lighting on fire, but took deep breaths like Jared instructed her to
remain calm.
“Just letting you
know, if you phase while having clothes on, they turn into little bits of
material.” Jacob snorted, folding his arms in front of his chest, leaning
against a nearby tree with is back facing them.
Mikayla hastily got
dressed, the jeans a perfect fit, though the shirt showed off her bare
midriff. “I’m going home to get some
DECENT clothes before we go to Billy’s.
I refuse to be uncomfortable on top of everything else!”
Jared sighed, walking
toward Mikayla slowly, their eyes locking. “Mika, we will figure this out. I didn’t do this, you believe me right?” He
had to make her see that it was physically impossible to pass the gene on just
by having sex. “Please believe me.”
“I do…” Mikayla
muttered, clearly not happy with this new turn of events, folding her arms in
front of her chest. “I was freaking out and still am, Jared. How the hell did this happen? I never had anyone in my family that knew
about this place.”
“Or maybe you did and your
father just didn’t tell you.” Jacob replied, turning around because he could
sense she was done, eyes cold and dark. “We’re going to Billy’s FIRST and then
your place. Then, we’re going to
California to have a little chit-chat with Jimmy.”
“His name is JIM.”
Mikayla growled, walking alongside Jared as they both followed Jacob.
“His name could be Old
King Cole for all I care. The fact is he
could have information about Kirstyn and I wanna know what it is. Not to mention you can reveal your lovely secret
about being one of us.” Jacob stated in a tone that was callous, his heart
hardened at the moment.
“Don’t mind him; he’s
still bitter toward Kirstyn leaving.” Jared murmured in Mikayla’s ear, glaring
at Jacob’s back.
“If he doesn’t watch
it, I’ll rip his throat out in his sleep.”
“You can try, Mika,
but you’ll fail miserably.”
Mikayla scowled,
wondering how she didn’t notice Jacob’s abrupt and sarcastic ways beforehand as
they all headed toward his place to speak to Billy Black.
Chapter 16
It was a peaceful day
at the Black residence as Billy Black sat in front of the television, watching
the news and sipping a beer. He was
thinking about going down to Charlie’s to watch the football game at four
o’clock, but wondered if his friend was up for visitors. Not to mention they didn’t have Harry
Clearwater’s famous fish fry, which Billy missed a lot.
“I’ll give him a call,
see what he says.” Billy decided, leaning back against the couch, knowing he
would have to get up soon to check the mail.
Jacob wasn’t coming
home any time soon, having been spending most of his time with this Kirstyn
girl. Billy still hadn’t met her,
deciding he would be demanding his son to bring her over for dinner one
evening. At least his mind was off of
Bella Swan, which made Billy sleep better at night. As much as he loved Charlie like a brother,
Billy always knew Bella was different and conniving.
“Hey dad.” Jacob
greeted solemnly as he walked inside, Jared and Mikayla following, running a
hand through his hair. “You gotta minute?”
Billy knew, just by
the sound of his son’s voice and the look on his face, that something was wrong
as he nodded. He grabbed the remote and
turned the television off, turning to face his son to give him his undivided
attention. Whatever it was had to be
serious, because Jacob rarely came to him just for small talk, which didn’t
bother Billy.
“What happened?”
Jacob sighed heavily
and walked over, sitting on the other end of the couch, staring at the floor.
“A lot has happened, dad. But we need to
ask you something about Mikayla.”
Billy’s eyes landed on
the girl, causing him to sigh heavily. “I already know.” He whispered, clearing
his throat awkwardly.
“WHAT?” All three of
them shouted simultaneously at Billy.
“What do you mean you already
know?” Jacob demanded, holding his hand up to the other two, eyes narrowed
slightly. “Dad, what’s going on?”
“I knew this would
happen eventually someday, especially when I found out Mikayla moved back here
from Texas when she was sixteen.” Billy said, ignoring his son’s question, and
reached for his beer as he took a long swig of it. “Mikayla, do you remember
hearing of your great-grandfather Galav Sarin?”
“Vaguely. My mom didn’t like talking about her side of
the family…” Now Mikayla knew why and clenched his fists tightly, gritting her
teeth, trying not to become angry because she really didn’t want to phase into
a wolf in front of Jacob’s father.
“Galav was a part of
the Quileute tribe since birth and followed my grandfather, Jake’s great-grandfather,
Ephraim Black, throughout their time. He
phased a little later than the others, to this day we still don’t know
why. He was twenty when it happened
though, the same age as you are right now.
Madina lived on the reservation most of her life, even went to the
school and graduated. I went to school
with her and we dated extensively, but it didn’t work out and she met your
father Jiminy Robinson.” Billy sighed heavily, feeling the guilt eating him
alive because he knew he drove Madina out of La Push. “You see, even though I
never changed into a wolf, I still carried the gene and with that came the
imprinting. I imprinted on your mother,
Jake, while I was with Madina and broke her heart…”
“Like Sam did to
Leah?” Jacob blinked, seeing the pain in his father’s eyes, and placed a hand
on the old man’s shoulder.
“That’s why my mom
left La Push isn’t it?” Mikayla’s voice was low and quiet, refusing to get
upset because there was nothing that she could do to change the past. She knew how strong imprinting was because of
how Jared described it to her. “It’s alright, Billy, you couldn’t have stopped
it from happening. My mom was very happy
with my dad.”
“I’m glad to hear
that, Mikayla, because she deserved to be happy and I’m so sorry she died. I actually cried when I found out.” He
chuckled, shaking his head, clearing his throat gruffly. “Anyway, I guess when
your mother died she wanted you to come back to La Push. Why I have no idea, but I’m guessing maybe
she felt guilty for taking you away from your roots.”
“My mom never once
told me anything about this place.” Mikayla whispered, blinking as huge tears
slid down her face. How could her mother
keep her heritage, the fact that she was a full blooded Quileute woman, a secret?
“I felt an instant connection as soon as I came here when I was sixteen. My dad never once told me they used to live
here…”
Billy frowned,
wondering why Jim would want to keep something that important away from his
daughter, shrugging. “I really don’t know what to tell you, Mikayla. At least you found out the truth though.” He
said, standing up with Jacob’s help, sitting down in his wheelchair. “I bet it
was pretty frightening shifting into wolf form for the first time huh?”
“Yeah, you could say
that I guess.” Mikayla muttered, wrapping her arms around herself, knowing she
would have to get used to his constant fever. “Was it weird for you the first
time?”
Billy chuckled,
looking over at his son knowingly. “I don’t know because I never had to go
through that.”
“Oh right, sorry.”
Mikayla felt like an idiot, even though this was a LOT of information to
digest. “Is there anything else I need to know about myself that everyone
knows? Did you know about this Jared?”
“Not a clue. Jake?” Jared eyed Jacob, who shook his head, nodding
and sighing with relief. “Good cause I’d hate to have to make you break your
ribcage again.”
Jacob rolled his eyes,
letting that one slide, though it was time to get serious again as he turned
dark eyes to his father. “There’s something else that’s happened. Several things, in fact, and we need your
help.” This didn’t happen very often, but Jacob needed advice and knew his
father was the only one he could turn to for this.
“What’s wrong Jake?”
Billy was concerned now, arching a black eyebrow, and drained the rest of his
beer.
“Well for starters,
Sam is a piece of shit.” Mikayla spat, not able to help herself, and stood up
as she began pacing back and forth. “You might as well let me finish now,
Jacob.”
“Go ahead, big mouth.”
“Watch it, wolf boy.”
“Enough both of you.”
Billy ordered gruffly, looking over at Jared. “Let the quiet one speak.”
“I’m not THAT
quiet. You’re talking about Embry.”
“Well Embry isn’t here
right now so it’s time to talk.”
Jared sighed heavily,
really not knowing the entire story. “Billy, with all due respect sir, I think
Mika should tell it because she’s the one who knows everything. I only know bits and pieces.”
“Fair enough.” Billy’s
dark eyes that mirrored Jacob’s turned to Mikayla, waiting patiently.
“Paul’s a piece of
shit too. Both of them are pieces of dog
shit.” Mikayla frowned when both Jacob and Jared winced, biting her bottom lip.
“What did I say?”
“We used to be called
dogs from the bloodsuckers.” Jared said, waving her off dismissively. “Just
continue.”
“Fine, they’re pieces
of rotten shit that need to have their heads removed and shoved up their
asses.” Mikayla growled, knowing she had to maintain control, taking a couple
of deep breaths. “They forced Kirstyn out of La Push.”
Billy’s eyes narrowed,
folding his arms in front of his chest. “Explain NOW.” He ordered in a grave
voice, letting the cussing pass after hearing that. “In every last detail.”
Jacob swallowed hard,
knowing his father was angry and looked at Jared with somewhat worried
eyes. He didn’t say a word, knowing
better, all eyes on Mikayla. If she knew
what was good for her, she would just get down to brass tactics and stop
beating around the bush.
“They did background
checks on both of us because they thought we were spies or something and wanted
to hurt everyone. I came back from
California because I realized how much I loved Jared and couldn’t be away from
him. I transferred to Seattle and then
decided to take online classes so I didn’t have to live far away from him. They had everything in my life in a manila
envelope that Kirstyn found at Emily’s.
My birth certificate, social security number, records from shots and
even my one and only speeding ticket.
EVERYTHING about my life was in that goddamn folder and Kirstyn left it
with me along with a letter, which is in my car back at the beach before I
phased.” Mikayla could feel the tears sliding down her cheeks as she spoke,
wiping them away, but they kept falling. “Billy, her mother sold her to a man
when she was fourteen years old up in Canada, where Jacob found her. He beat, raped and tormented her for FOUR
years and burned her entire existence in front of her. She told me everything in the letter and I
believe her because Kirstyn has no reason to lie about any of it. NONE! And Sam and Paul decided to be nosey bastards
and checked up on both of us, only they couldn’t find anything on her. So they automatically assumed she was a
threat, when they haven’t the SLIGHTEST clue what she’s been through and what
her piece of shit mother did to her! I
lost my best friend that I JUST reunited with after four LONG years and they
drove her away and now I’ll probably never see her again…”
Jared was behind her
when Mikayla dropped to her knees, going with her, and wrapped his arms securely
around her body as she sobbed brokenly.
He knew she missed Kirstyn and looked up at Jacob, who had a look of
pure murder in his features and eyes.
Something bad was going to happen to Sam and Paul for their ridiculous
assumptions; Jared had a feeling it was going to be excruciating and slow.
Billy didn’t say
anything for a few minutes, just letting everything that Mikayla told him sink
in. He clenched his teeth together, his
knuckles turning pure white because of how hard he was gripping the handles on
his wheelchair. What in the HELL was Sam
thinking doing something like this when he was supposed to be the leader of
this pack?!
“Jacob, when this is
over, you will be taking over as alpha.” Billy stated in a deceptively calm,
eerie voice that sent shivers down everyone’s spine. “Sam is going to pay for
what he did to these innocent girls.
Where is Kirstyn now?”
“I don’t know.” Jacob
whispered, slumping his shoulders as the reality crashed down on him again, jaw
tightening. “She’s in danger because that…he’s tracking her dad. He’s tracking her and she’s out there alone…”
He felt helpless as Billy clamped a strong hand on his son’s shoulder.
“We will find her and
bring her back, Jake.” His dark eyes turned to Mikayla, who calmed down and was
just curled up in Jared’s lap, his fingers running through her hair. “Where
could she have gone without hardly any money Mikayla?”
“I have no idea. We’re originally from Texas, but Jake said
something about going to California after talking to you to talk to my
dad. He thinks he might know something
about it…” Mikayla murmured, all the anger drained from her body, just wanting
to be as close to Jared as possible.
Billy stroked his chin
in thought for a moment, nodding, knowing his son was on the right track. “That’s
where Sam and Paul went I take it?” When all three nodded, Billy just tightened
his jaw even more. “Lying…” He had to stop himself before he said something he
would regret, having crushed the beer can with his free hand. “Jacob, take them
both to California and bring Sam and Paul back here to me.”
“Dad, are you sure you
can…”
“Do what I say. I may never have phased into a wolf, but I am
STILL a descendent and my grandfather’s name has been tarnished by them. They WILL pay for it.” Billy promised, eyes
flashing, deciding he would not be going to Charlie’s. He had other arrangements and phone calls to
make. “You send them the message anyway you have to, but you will be named the
new alpha of the Quileute tribe and take what’s always been destined to be
yours.”
“Wait…Jacob is
supposed to be the leader?” Mikayla was confused, having stood up with Jared’s
help, knowing she would need to gain energy fast because they were leaving
immediately.
“Alpha.” Jacob
corrected, squaring his shoulders, knowing it was time and he couldn’t be
afraid to step up. “We’ll be talking to Jim first and then bring those two back
kicking and screaming if necessary.”
“Jared, you need to
choose a side.” Billy stated, his eyes boring into the terrified brown orbs of
his son’s friend. “Because when this happens, Sam will not give up without a
fight.”
“I’m with Jake. Sam helped me out when I first phased, but he
betrayed all of us, not just you sir.” Jared stated, also squaring his shoulders,
nodding as Jacob looked back at him. “I’m with Jake all the way. I know Leah and Seth will be too and Quil and
Embry. They’ll all be angry for what Sam
and Paul did.”
Billy nodded,
satisfied with that answer, pointing to the door. “Go now and be safe.” He
stated, wheeling himself into the kitchen to grab the phone, wishing Harry was
still with them. If anyone could set the
boys straight, it would be Harry Clearwater.
Jacob waited until
Mikayla and Jared walked out before looking at his father, those eyes deadly
and dangerous. “What do you really want me to do?” He asked quietly, waiting
for his father.
“Tear them to shreds.”
Nodding, Jacob walked
out of the house and down the stairs, knowing Sam wouldn’t be coming back
without being seriously injured. He
cracked his neck and knuckles loudly, looking up at the sky, knowing Ephraim
was looking down at him at that moment.
A rush of wind came up and blew across Jacob’s face, his eyes closing
briefly, knowing that was his great-grandfather’s way of giving him the alpha
position.
He felt it once before
when he first phased, Sam telling him soon after that he was supposed to be the
alpha of the pack, but Jacob wasn’t ready.
Sam assured Jacob when he was ready to take his place, he would step down
without a fight. Those were the days and
they seemed so long ago, but only mere months, which was surreal.
However, things had
drastically changed.
Growling from low in
his throat, Jacob ran into the woods where Mikayla and Jared waited, leaping in
the air as reddish brown fur took over where his skin usually was.
Chapter 17
Austin was more
beautiful than Kirstyn remembered as she walked the streets, hands shoved in
the front pockets of her black hooded sweatshirt. Somehow, she didn’t feel alone here and
Kirstyn knew why that was. She wasn’t
alone and could feel her grandfather looking down at her, causing tears to
slide down her cheeks, pulling the hood up to hide her identity as much as she
could. Most people wouldn’t recognize
her, she hoped, but she had to destination to be.
It was very hard
leaving Mikayla again, but Kirstyn knew she made the right decision. Eric was out there somewhere looking for her,
though he would have a very difficult finding someone who never existed. A smirk curved her lips for a split second,
knowing Eric basically screwed himself over when he burned every document of
Kirstyn’s because Sandra never told him exactly where in Texas they lived.
Again, she hoped,
wondering if Sandra told him everything.
Kirstyn wouldn’t be
hanging out long in Austin, knowing she had to keep going on the move, deciding
Florida would probably be her next destination.
How she’d get there, Kirstyn had no clue, but she’d made it this far. She was a survivor at heart and didn’t need
anyone to fight her battles for her.
Walking up the hill,
Kirstyn stopped in her tracks at the sight of the cemetery, closing her eyes as
another wind blew over her. Taking the
hooded sweatshirt off and wrapping it around her waist tightly, Kirstyn started
trekking through the gravestones. Her
grandfather would be proud of her for making it this far, this much Kirstyn was
sure of, finally finding what she wanted.
Dropping to her knees,
Kirstyn let the tears flow from her eyes like two raging streams, feeling the
tremors overtake her body. She wrapped
her arms around herself, not believing how hard this would be to visit her
grandfather’s grave. The guilt had eaten
away at her for the past four years because she’d missed saying goodbye to him
and never got to pay her respects.
“Papa, I’m so sorry…”
She whispered painfully, pressing her forehead to the dark soil below, gripping
some in her hands. Kirstyn didn’t care
who saw her at that moment, just wanting to be alone with her grandfather, missing
him more than words could say. “I never got a chance to say goodbye to you
because of Sandra. I know she was your
daughter, but I can’t call her my mother because no mother would sell their
daughter to a complete monster. I just
hope she’s not wherever you are because she doesn’t deserve it, not after what
she did to her very own flesh and blood.
I guess I should probably be thankful to her for something because, if I
hadn’t been tortured by Eric for the past four years, I wouldn’t have met Jacob
Black or reunited with Mikayla. You
remember Kayla, right Papa? I know you
do because we were each other’s shadow whenever the summers began. Jacob Black…”
Kirstyn swallowed
hard, the thought of Jacob running through her mind overtaking her for a moment. That last night with him and coming together,
it’d been almost surreal, though she didn’t regret a single second with
him. She loved him more than anything in
the world, but sometimes love wasn’t enough, especially since Sam and Paul
decided they wanted her out of La Push for good.
She made it easy for
them and left on her own.
“Papa, I love you so
much and I miss you every day that goes by...” Her voice cracked and Kirstyn
couldn’t go on, shaking her head back and forth, hitting the ground in frustration. “What am I supposed to do now, Papa? I have nowhere to go and I know Eric is
looking for me. Please help me; just
send me some kind of sign that will point me in the right direction…”
Suddenly, Kirstyn was
thrust off of William’s grave, landing on her ass in the dirt as a huge gush of
wind blew across her face almost violently, chestnut locks swirling up in it.
Through blurred vision, Kirstyn shakily got to her feet, the wind not stopping
as leaves blew in the direction. Kirstyn
gasped when she felt something on her shoulder, a tingling sensation and knew
this was the sign from her grandfather.
“Thanks Papa.” She
whispered and ran out of the cemetery as fast as she could, stumbling a few
times since he was buried on a hill.
Down the street from
the cemetery was a little dirt gravel road and Kirstyn followed it, going with
her gut instinct, the familiarity surrounding her. The wind picked up even more, almost as if
urging her to the house, forcing her to keep moving. There was no turning back and Kirstyn knew
she was doing the right thing as the sun beat down on her arms, having ripped
the sleeves off of the long sleeved black shirt she wore.
She didn’t want to die
of heat stroke after all.
When the wind finally
stopped, Kirstyn was breathing heavily and standing on her grandfather’s old
property, the house white and beautiful as it always was. She couldn’t believe how much she’d ran,
definitely out of shape, and arched an eyebrow.
What did her grandfather want to show her that was so important in the
old house where she spent her childhood?
Kirstyn hesitated and
walked on the sidewalk that lead up to the house, remembering how her
grandfather always HATED it whenever she walked on his beautiful grass. She smiled at the memory, sighing deeply, and
walked up the stairs that lead to the double oak doors. She couldn’t believe nobody had bought this
house and chewed her bottom lip as she reached for the handle to open it.
It was locked.
“Okay…”
Kirstyn was confused,
wondering if she was just imagining her grandfather trying to contact her from
the beyond, stepping away from the door.
Suddenly, she was on her backside again as the mat slid to the side,
revealing a key. It was the same key
Kirstyn would use when she was a kid whenever her grandfather was out at the
market and she’d come home from school.
Picking up the shiny gold key, Kirstyn looked back at the front door and
stepped forward, sliding it inside the keyhole, turning it.
The door opened as
soon as a loud click resonated, Kirstyn stepping inside, seeing absolutely
nothing was out of place. None of the
furniture was touched, though Kirstyn knew her grandfather was well off. It was very dusty, but nothing that couldn’t
be fixed. Kirstyn was in awe as memories
flooded her as a child, a bright smile crossing her face, remembering when she
would come here as a kid for the summers to stay with her grandfather.
It was almost as if
time stopped.
Kirstyn closed the door
behind her as she ran her hand up the banister, inhaling the familiar scent,
sighing in contentment. Her grandfather
always smelled of tobacco, gasoline and musk and Kirstyn still couldn’t believe
his scent lingered after all this time.
Sighing with contentment, Kirstyn headed up the stairs, wanting to see
her old room. However, something stopped
her from going in that direction, that tingling sensation rushing over her
again, drawing her down the right hallway toward her grandfather’s room.
Frowning, Kirstyn
reached for the door handle and pushed it open, looking around in
confusion. What did her Papa want to
show her that was so important?
Suddenly, Kirstyn stopped as her eyes closed, the past sweeping her
completely away, remembering the last day she saw him alive…
~!~
“Papa, I have to go meet Kayla. What’s going on?” Kirstyn asked as she walked
inside his room, hearing him hollering, never able to deny her grandfather
anything. The old man had her wrapped
his finger and he knew it, those sparkling blue eyes shining back at her.
“Now you know I wouldn’t ask ya up here if it
wasn’t important, Kirst.” William replied, waving his hand at her dismissively
when she folded her arms in front of her chest.
“Close the door sweetheart.”
Kirstyn did as he asked and walked over at her
grandfather’s beckoning, sitting on the bed beside him. “What did you need Papa?” She asked politely,
always having a southern charm, her long silky smooth chestnut hair hanging
down her back in soft waves.
William suddenly looked worried, staring at his
lovely granddaughter, reaching his hand up to cup her cheek in his old wrinkly
hand. “Kirst, there’s somethin’ I gotta tell ya, but first ya gotta promise me
somethin’.” His voice suddenly grew urgent when she nodded, taking a deep
breath through his oxygen tubes that were up his nose to help him breathe
properly. “You can’t tell yer mother this.”
“Okay…” Kirstyn blinked when her grandfather
grabbed her by the shoulders, feeling the tension in his hands, swallowing
hard. “I promise, Papa.”
The grip instantly lessened and William coughed
several times, spitting into a nearby garbage can. Kirstyn frowned, knowing he was incredibly
sick and began to stand up from the bed, but he stopped her. He needed his rest and was being stubborn,
though Kirstyn wasn’t going to get upset at him, knowing that wouldn’t do any
good.
“Kirstyn, listen to me. There’s somethin’ ya need to understand 'bout
what’s been goin’ on round here, honey…” He stopped, coughing again, groaning
from low in his throat. It was husky
sounding, but Kirstyn was more intrigued by what her grandfather just said.
“What do you mean, Papa?”
“Ya know I love ya right Kirst?” He smiled weakly
when she nodded. “I would never let anythin’ happen to ya, darlin’.” He closed
his eyes painfully, looking down at his clasped hands, a small wooden box on
his lap. “That’s why I’m tellin’ ya bout this a ‘fore it’s too late.”
Kirstyn frowned, not wanting to hear those words.
“Papa, you’ll get better…” She stated confidently, placing her hand over his,
staring deep into his kind blue eyes. “You’re just sick. Momma said you’ll be better in a few days.”
William knew there was no dissuading his
granddaughter because she had hope raging through her veins. She reminded him so much of her father, who
died in his sleep not long after she was born.
William remembered that day vividly, how Sandra called him crying and
sobbing, eyes narrowing suddenly at the thought of his daughter.
“I need you to do somethin’ for me, sweetheart.”
William took the box that was lying on his lap, handing it over to her. It looked centuries old with dust on the top,
but Kirstyn loved it regardless.
“What is it?” She asked, running her fingers over
the edgings, finding it beautiful because her grandfather had instilled an
appreciation for old artifacts and history.
He was a huge history lover, having every book about the both US and
World history, finding it absolutely fascinating.
“In that box holds the key to everythin’ you’ll
need when yer older.” William replied gruffly, knowing Sandra wouldn’t be back
for several more hours, his blue eyes growing sad. “That box will be in this room when you come
back for it.”
“What do you mean when I come back for it?” Kirstyn
suddenly started giggling, though the nervousness was clear as day, swallowing
hard. “Papa, I’m not going anywhere. I’m
staying right here to take care of you.”
William shook his head, struggling to find the
words, knowing Sandra had something planned to take Kirstyn away, but he wasn’t
sure exactly what it was. “Kirst, just remember what I told ya 'bout this box
cause it’s extremely important.
Everythin’ ya need will be in here and ya can’t tell yer mother, do ya
understand?”
Kirstyn seen how serious her grandfather was,
mutely nodding as he pulled the box out of her hands, wondering exactly what
was inside that would be important when she was older. Shrugging that off, Kirstyn placed the wooden
box in the closet, as instructed by her grandfather, pulling a board up from
the floor and set it inside before placing it back. She looked over at her grandfather, who
smiled gently at her, extending his hand.
“I love ya Kirst and, no matter what, ya gotta keep
the faith that everythin’s gonna be fine.” William murmured, closing his eyes
because the exhaustion of the conversation had taken over, sighing heavily.
“I’m gonna shut my eyes for awhile, sweetheart.”
Kirstyn smiled, glad her grandfather decided to
rest, placing a hand over his. “I love ya too, Papa. I’ll see you later.” She kissed his cheek and
forehead as always before rushing out of the door, William watching her.
Within moments after Kirstyn left, William had
fallen asleep and never woke up again, dying peacefully in his sleep.
~!~
Opening her cobalt
eyes, they landed on the closet her grandfather had told her about that held
the box. She immediately closed the door
and rushed over, opening the closet door, coughing as dust flew up in her face. Kirstyn couldn’t believe she’d forgotten that
conversation, another wave of guilt rushing over her, looking behind her
shoulder at the bed where her grandfather lay.
“Papa…” She whispered,
eyebrows furrowing in thought, and reached for the board in the closet as it
gave way with a few hard pulls. Kirstyn
coughed as more dust flew, but she was determined to find that box, praying
nobody else found it after his death.
She tossed the piece of wood behind her on the floor and reached into
the gape, tears sliding down her cheeks when she felt the box in her grasp.
It was there, nobody
found it.
Kirstyn immediately
pulled it out, being very gentle with it, and set it aside as she replaced the
piece of wood back on the floor. She
closed the closet door, making sure nothing was out of place, and sat on the
bed with the box in front of her.
Rubbing her hands together, Kirstyn closed her eyes briefly before
popping the lid open, revealing a stack of paperwork.
“What is all of this?”
She whispered in wonder, blinking as she pulled them out one by one, covering
her mouth with her hand.
There were deeds to
other properties her grandfather owned, including the current one that she
currently sat in. Kirstyn was shocked
when she found her grandfather’s will, which basically stated he was leaving
everything to Kirstyn. It was in a red
plastic casing, looking like new and Kirstyn knew she was set. There were passwords to bank accounts that
seemed nearly impossible to get to, but that’s not what shocked Kirstyn the
most.
The next paper she
held up brought a fresh batch of tears to her eyes, laughter escaping her,
staring at her birth certificate. She
immediately set it aside and sifted through the box, finding all of her
records, social security number, everything Eric had thought he’d gotten rid of
by burning it in front of her. Kirstyn
wondered briefly if her grandfather knew about Sandra’s plan to sell her to
Eric, wiping her tears away as she placed everything back in the box.
“Papa…Papa, thank
you…” She whispered softly, whipping her head up when she heard some commotion
downstairs.
“KIRSTYN!!”
Swallowing hard,
knowing that voice anywhere, Kirstyn shoved the box back in the closet,
blinking when something fell out of it and landed against her leg. It was a .44 magnum with a pure gold handle
and a very long barrel. She shakily
picked it up; hearing the footsteps thumping through the house, knowing Eric had
found her. She remembered her
grandfather teaching her how to use and shoot this gun, checking it to make
sure there were bullets in it.
Two.
“KIRSTYN!!”
His voice was just
outside the door as Kirstyn spun the chamber in place, hearing the bullets lock
in place just as the door was kicked in.
Chapter 18
“Do you think he’s home?”
“I don’t know, one way
to find out.”
Sam sighed as Paul
walked up to the front door of Jim Robinson’s Los Angeles home, both of them
wearing cut off shorts with black tank tops and sneakers. Paul sighed, really not wanting to do this,
but there was no going back now. He was
the one who initiated this, convinced Sam to come here, but he couldn’t ignore
what he was told. Mikayla checked out
alright, which was good, but now they had to worry about Kirstyn.
Neither knew Kirstyn
had left La Push already, having left around three A.M. that morning.
The door opened,
breaking Paul out of his thoughts, staring at a bald man with crystal clear
blue eyes with a goatee. He looked burly
with a few tattoos on his arms, wearing a black sleeveless shirt and black
jeans, fingerless gloves on his hands, black shades on top of his head. He looked intimidating to the average person,
though Sam and Paul weren’t the least bit impressed.
“Are you Jim Robinson?”
Sam inquired, stepping forward with his arms crossed in front of his chest.
“Who wants to know?”
Jim demanded gruffly, raising a pale eyebrow at both russet colored men,
wondering if he would need to get violent.
“Sir, my name is Sam
Uley and this is Paul. We’re here about
your daughter.” Sam watched the man’s eyes narrow slightly, already knowing
this was a sore subject. “Please, it’s important.”
Jim sighed resignedly,
stepping aside as both men entered his house, closing the door behind them. “I
can only talk for a second.” He stated, walking over to grab a beer out of the
fridge, cracking it open. “What about Mikayla?”
“It’s not really about
Mikayla, more about Kirstyn Ames.”
“Kirstyn Ames?” Jim
blinked, setting his beer down, shaking his head slowly. “Wow, I haven’t heard
that name in ages…”
Paul looked at Sam,
both of them already knowing Jim probably had no information on Kirstyn, though
that didn’t stop them from trying. “Do you remember the last time you saw her?”
Sam asked, glad Paul was keeping his mouth shut, knowing how frustrated Paul
already was.
“Damn, it’s gotta be
at LEAST four years now…” Jim walked over and sat on the black leather couch,
leaning back. “She must’ve been bout fourteen or so. Her mother was quite a looker, though nobody
compared to my late wife.”
“Her mother was quite
a looker?” Paul wanted to hurt this man already and they hadn’t even been in
the house five minutes. “What do you mean by that?”
Sam held his hand up,
shooting Paul a warning glare. He would
toss Paul bodily out of his house if he even THOUGHT for a second the man was
going to phase. They were here to find
out information, not interrogate Mikayla’s father or anger him.
Jim chuckled dryly,
taking another swig of his beer. “Sandra was quite a knockout. Long hair, blue eyes, perfect breasts, legs
that could go on for miles...every man’s fantasy basically and she dressed the
part. Daisy duke shorts that nearly
showed the crack of her ass and everything in between. It made me wonder how she could end up in a
town like Austin, Texas, but then our girls started hanging out and I found out
she lived with her father William.”
“Do you remember the
last time you saw her?” Sam pressed, remembering Kirstyn saying Eric killed her
mother, though they still didn’t believe that part.
“She was murdered.”
Jim stated evenly, taking the shades off of his bald head so he could rub it,
leaning forward a bit. “Found in the woods somewhere up in Montana. Her body was dismembered, head removed from
her shoulders…”
Sam was getting angry
at Paul, who simply looked away. “Did they ever find the murderer?” Paul pried,
still having that feeling in the pit of his stomach. “Mind if I sit Jimmy?”
“It’s Jim and I guess not.”
Jim replied, not appreciating this punk’s attitude. “Your pal can have a seat
too.”
“Thanks.” Sam nodded
and walked over, sitting in the black leather recliner. “You were saying about
the murder…”
“Oh yeah, no they
never found her murderer. Said he was
someone who lived in Canada. And the US
officials didn’t have enough evidence to justify crossing the border and
wasting their resources on a hunt.” Jim answered; crushing the empty beer can
in his hand, supposing he wasn’t being a very good host to the unexpected
guests. “You guys want a beer?”
“No thank you.” Sam
stated before Paul could, eyes narrowed, looking up at Jim when he came back
with a fresh beer. “So did anyone hear anything about her daughter, what
happened to her?”
“Presumably, Kirstyn
was never found and the officials finally ruled that the murderer disposed of
her body. I guess Sandra and Kirstyn
were headed up to Canada to see a friend of theirs and it all went bad. Poor Kirstyn, man she was only fourteen years
old and it tore my daughter up really bad.” Jim sighed, remembering how he used
to treat Kirstyn, clearing his throat roughly. “She was like a daughter to me
when they were kids.”
Sam nodded solemnly,
clasping his hands tightly together, wanting to strangle Paul for putting him
through all of this trouble. “So they didn’t find any records or anything on
her?” He asked softly, daring Paul to open his mouth once. Sam didn’t care; he would phase in front of
Jim and rip the man apart.
“No and what’s crazy
is the day, the very day, Sandra and Kirstyn left Texas is the day William
passed away. We went to the funeral and
didn’t see them there, which was very strange.
I remember how much Kirstyn loved that old man and how much helped her
and Sandra out.” Jim suddenly eyed both men suspiciously, squaring his
shoulder, sitting up more. “Why are you asking about Kirstyn Ames?”
Paul looked at Sam,
wondering if they should tell the man everything that happened. “Well…”
“Open your mouth once
and I’ll kill you here and now, Paul.” A deep, dark voice resonated through the
room, causing both Paul and Sam’s eyes to nearly pop out of their sockets.
“What the-”
Jacob, Jared and
Mikayla all walked in from the garage, standing there looking very angry, their
arms folded simultaneously over their chests.
Jacob and Jared didn’t move an inch as Mikayla walked over and hugged
her father tightly, who was very surprised to see her. Mikayla pulled away and stared up at her
father, tears brimming her eyes, glaring hatefully at Paul and Sam.
“What’s going on baby
girl?” Jim immediately asked, seeing how much hatred was in his daughter’s
violet eyes that reminded him so much of her mother. “Mickie?”
“So much dad.” Mikayla
started crying, feeling her father’s arms wrap around her trembling body, burying
her face in his chest, swallowing hard.
Paul glared up at
Jared, who was glaring right back, both of them having silent words through
body language. “What the hell are you three doing here?” Sam demanded, running
a hand through his hair, seeing Jacob standing tall with squared shoulders.
“Jake…”
“You have a lot of
nerve even THINKING about calling me that after what you put everyone through,
Sam.” Jacob replied evenly, his eyes moving from Sam to Paul. “You two need to
go back to La Push immediately. My
father is waiting.” Jacob remembered what his father told him to do, but they
had to talk to Jim about Mikayla’s newfound talent.
“Probably to kick our
asses.” Paul grunted, looking over at Mikayla, who looked like she wanted to
kill both of them. “What the hell is going on?”
“Oh you should know!”
Mikayla snapped, turning in her father’s arms. “Because of your stupid,
childish insecurities, Kirstyn LEFT La Push because she didn’t want you going
to that piece of trash up in Canada next to find out if she was telling the
truth!”
Jim blinked, staring
down at his daughter, feeling as though he was getting a migraine. “Wait a
minute, Kirstyn who? Kirstyn Ames? She’s alive?” He watched Mikayla nod and huge
tears slid down her face, glaring at both Sam and Paul. “You two have a lot of
explaining to do NOW.”
“No, they don’t need
to bother because we know everything!
They did background checks on both of us, but when they couldn’t find
anything on Kirstyn, they started snooping around and decided to come here to
question you about her, to see if she was being truthful, which she was! And now she’s gone and I’ll probably never
see her again because of you assholes!”
“Mikayla enough!!”
Jacob shouted, seeing she was getting angry, knowing she had to listen to him
since she was in his pack now. “You have to calm down before something bad
happens.”
Mikayla knew what they
meant and immediately took a few deep, shaky breaths, swallowing hard. This was going to be hard to get used to, but
she was thankful to Jacob for being there to see her through it. Jacob nodded when he seen the anger diminish
from her eyes, which was instantly replaced with more tears, feeling his own
anger rushing forward and tried fighting it back.
“You do realize we’re
not the only ones in this room who deceived the pack, right Jake?” Paul
demanded angrily, staring at Jacob with cold dark eyes, folding his arms in
front of his chest. “You see, I didn’t
just come up with the idea of doing a background check on the girls. If you want your real culprit, look to you
left.”
Jared’s eyes widened
in shock, not believing Paul just said that. “What?! Are you insane?! I would never do something like that!!” He
shouted defensively, feeling his own anger beginning to overshadow all rational
thinking. “Paul, I’ll tear you apart!”
“Why because I’m
telling the truth?” Paul challenged, stepping forward, bringing his hands up as
dark eyes flashed. “Why don’t you stop lying and tell the damn truth,
Jared? Tell Mikayla how you were skeptical
of her return to La Push and how you weren’t sure if you could trust her! Tell her about how too coincidental it was
for Kirstyn to arrive right after Mikayla and how you thought they were spies
for the Cullens! TELL THE DAMN TRUTH!”
Jacob slowly looked
over at Jared, who had a look on his face that told the entire story. “You were
the one who put all that garbage in Paul’s head to tell Sam?” He demanded,
feeling as though his jaw might crack from how hard it was tightened, clenching
his fists tightly at his sides.
There was no way Jared
could lie anymore and sighed heavily, nodding. “Yes.” He whispered, lowering
his head, taking a few steps back from Jacob. “Look, I did it for the pack,
man…”
“Because of you,
Kirstyn could be lying somewhere DEAD RIGHT NOW AND YOU DID IT FOR THE SAKE OF
THE PACK?!” Jacob roared, shoving Jared so hard, he flipped over the couch and
crashed through the glass coffee table.
Mikayla was beside
herself, sinking to her knees with Jim quickly joining, wrapping his arms tightly
around her. “Jared…h-how could you…” She stammered, feeling as though her heart
was shattering repeatedly in her chest. “Y-You lied t-to me…”
Jared couldn’t even
speak because he was currently being bodily tossed out of the house in the
grass by Paul. Jacob just stood there,
trembling from head to toe, not sure who he could trust anymore. Sam sighed heavily, glad the truth was
finally out, even though he already read Paul’s mind and figured it out long
ago.
“I’m sorry Jake.” Paul
murmured, looking over at his friend, the anger diminished temporarily. “He
sounded really sure and…we didn’t mean for it to go this far.”
“Both of you go home
right now.” Jacob ordered in a deadly tone of voice, knowing they came here for
more than just to stop Paul and Sam. “NOW.”
Sam already knew,
judging by the sound of Jacob’s voice, he was the new alpha and simply followed
Paul out the door. “Mikayla, pull it
together and ask your father.” He ordered gravely, knowing he couldn’t leave
her alone, still not believing how vindictive Jared had been.
“What the hell is he
talking about Mickie? Ask me what?” Jim
demanded, not believing the spectacle he just witnessed in his own house, eyes
narrowed to slits. “I want answers and I want them NOW.”
Mikayla nodded,
standing up on shaky legs, and walked over to the couch to sit down. “Dad, sit
down.” She patted the spot beside her, taking a few deep breaths, shoving the
betrayal of Jared in the far recesses of her mind. Jim did as she said, still looking very
baffled and angry, which she didn’t blame him. “Dad, why didn’t you tell me
about you and mom living in La Push before I was born?”
“Who told you that?”
Jim demanded, instantly standing up, running a hand over his bald head.
“Mikayla, I swear…”
“Billy Black, Jacob’s
father.” She pointed at Jacob, who just eyed Jim evenly, refusing to speak a
word. “He said he dated mom and broke her heart so mom found you and you two
left La Push. Why didn’t you tell me?”
“I didn’t think it was
necessary.”
“Why not?” Mikayla
demanded, standing up as well, tears streaming down her face. “Why wasn’t it
important for me to know that I’m a descendent from the Quileute tribe? That I have their blood running through my
veins? That I have the gene of turning
into a filthy, hideous beast on a whim?”
Jim sighed heavily,
looking back at his daughter, knowing he would have to come clean. “Mikayla,
your mother didn’t want you to know about the Quileute. She wanted you to have a normal childhood,
which is why she decided to leave La Push and take you far away from
there. Billy really hurt her when he
chose Sarah, but I don’t regret that happening.
I loved your mother very much.”
“I know you did…”
Mikayla whispered, lowering her head as she sank back down on the couch. “That
still doesn’t explain something though.”
“What Mickie?”
“Okay so you and mom
wanted to keep me in the dark about the Quileute, but when she died, you took
me back there. Why?” She looked into her
father’s blue eyes, seeing the guilt swirling through them, and swallowed hard.
“Dad, why did you take me back?”
“Because your mother
wanted me to.”
“But WHY?”
Mikayla was tired of
her father skating around the truth, standing up again, trying to take deep
breaths to calm down. Phasing would not be
a good thing right now and Mikayla had to think of something that calmed her
down. Kirstyn was the only thing that
came to mind and it seemed to work.
“Because your mother
wanted you to know your real father.”
Chapter 19
It was astonishing,
surreal and unfathomable.
Jacob and Mikayla
walked through the woods in complete shock, both of them not even knowing what
to say. This felt like a dream that
Jacob was going to wake up from at any moment and everything would be back to
normal. Kirstyn would be safe and sound
in La Push and Jared would still be his friend, instead of a backstabber.
Mikayla opened and
closed her mouth several times, trying to wrap her mind around what Jim told
her, trying not to start crying again.
They were in human form, heading toward Texas. Both decided that’s where Kirstyn would go
because of how guilty she felt over missing her grandpa’s funeral and she had a
connection there.
It was the only
logical place Kirstyn would go.
“So…”
“So…”
Both of them just gave
up trying to make conversation and kept walking, arms hanging at their sides,
still completely dumbfounded. Mikayla
wiped a few stray tears away from her eyes, knowing she had to focus on finding
Kirstyn. Even if her family tree had
just been completely lit on fire and destroyed.
Everything Mikayla ever thought or known was a complete lie and she
didn’t even know who she was anymore.
“We need to phase to
go faster. As wolves, we can most likely
make it to Texas by dawn if we’re lucky.
Can you handle it?” Jacob asked in a deep voice, not wanting to upset
Mikayla anymore than she already was, still somewhat shell-shocked by what he
found out.
“Sure.” Mikayla
whispered, knowing with everything that happened, it wouldn’t be a problem for
her.
She started running in
front of him and leapt into the air, letting the anger completely overtake her
mind. Jared’s betrayal, Kirstyn’s
leaving because of Paul and Sam, their own betrayal and finally Jim. That angered her more than anything else as
blood red fur overtook the skin, Mikayla landing on the ground moments later
with grace on all fours. Jacob was
already phased, his reddish-brown fur glistening in the sun above them.
Not bad.
Mikayla snorted through
her nose, both wolves running through the woods, knowing they would have to be
careful not to be caught. The quickest
way to Austin was through Arizona, which would be stifling hot, but with how
fast they could run, they could cross it in two hours tops. Of course they also had New Mexico before
getting to Texas.
How many miles do you think?
I don’t know.
Do I look like a map to you?
Rolling her violet
eyes, Mikayla jumped in front of him as she started running faster, letting the
wind take her away. Jacob was right
beside her, both of them knowing time was running out for Kirstyn, hoping they
weren’t too late. Mikayla didn’t even
want to think about that possibility, knowing Eric had to know where she was
from originally.
Stop thinking negative. Jacob ordered,
refusing to think that Kirstyn wasn’t safe because it would make him crazy with
worry. They couldn’t do that, they had
to maintain level heads and keep their eyes peeled for any other danger.
Jacob, I know we haven’t known each other that
long…
Mikayla, no.
I don’t want to talk about it right now.
We have to focus on the task at hand and that’s getting to Kirstyn.
Mikayla suddenly
stopped, causing Jacob to crash into her, both of them growling from deep in
their throats. No! We have talk about it because if we don’t,
it’s just going to eat us up inside and out!
What do you want me to say? Jacob demanded
angrily, pacing back and forth, trying not to tackle Mikayla. Do you want me to welcome you into the Black
family with open arms, Mikayla, and pretend everything is fine? Is that what you want? Because I have news for you, it’s not a good
thing that you’re my sister!
Oh and you think finding out I’ve had three
siblings I never even KNEW my entire life is easy on ME? Do you think it’s easy finding out from the
man I thought was my father that he really isn’t, that my father is Billy
Black?! Mikayla shouted, not caring if her own voice was vibrating in her head,
planting her paws in the ground. Jacob,
I’m sorry if I ruined your life by finding this out, but it came as much of a
shock to me as it did to you. You are
not the only one feeling pain right now, alpha!
Jacob sighed heavily,
pacing back and forth, knowing deep down Mikayla was right. He was just having a hard time wrapping his
mind around the fact that he had another sister out there he never knew
about. Jacob’s family was always tight
knit and it made him wonder if Billy had known about the pregnancy when Madina
left La Push.
There were so many
questions and not enough answers.
I’m sorry. Jacob’s voice was low and gruff,
looking up at Mikayla for the first time. I
didn’t mean what I said about you not being my sister. I’ve already thought of you as one because of
Kirstyn…
I know, I’m sorry too. This has been a hell of a day and I just want
it to get better.
I know how you feel.
Jacob still couldn’t
believe everything that happened, no matter how hard he tried. It wasn’t happening, especially after finding
out that Madina was pregnant by Billy when she left La Push with Jim. She didn’t want Mikayla anywhere near her
roots or to watch Billy love another woman that wasn’t her.
Jim had a letter from
Madina that she wrote Billy soon after Mikayla’s birth, though it was never
sent. Madina wrote it to get her
emotions out about the situation, her way of moving on and leaving Billy Black
in the darkness. Mikayla had taken the
letter, deciding she would show Billy when she arrived back in La Push. Neither was looking forward to confronting
Billy about this situation, not to mention Jared’s betrayal to the entire pack.
What do you think Billy will do? Mikayla asked a few
hours later, having just arrived at the Texan border, looking over at Jacob. Do you think he’ll understand or disown me?
Billy would never disown you, but he would probably
ask for a paternity test to be done…unless he’s known about it all along… Jacob would rip his
father’s throat out if that was the case and hide the body, not sure how much more
he could take before completely snapping. I
don’t think he knows though. He’ll be
shocked like we were and accept it.
You really think so?
Jacob didn’t answer,
honestly not knowing what Billy would do.
He sighed heavily, wondering how much farther Austin was. They’d been going for several hours now, the
moon shining up above them, knowing it would be several more hours before they
arrived, both hoping Kirstyn was alright.
Jake, I know you don’t think of me as a sister or
whatever, but I wanted to let you know that I’m very proud to have you as a
brother. Mikayla stated several hours later, knowing they might not get this
opportunity again, stopping when he did as he inhaled the air.
In time Mikayla. He said before racing as fast as he
could, knowing they were close. He could
faintly smell Kirstyn’s scent, the lilac vanilla mixture always making him
crazy. She’s close.
How do you know?
I can smell her. Jacob looked very powerful as he
pounded ground with his huge paws, leaving marks in the dirt, but that didn’t
matter. They were close to Kirstyn, so
close he could feel her surrounding him.
Mikayla blinked,
wondering what he meant by that. Smell
her? What the hell did Kirstyn smell
like? Mikayla tried inhaling the air,
closing her eyes as she ran alongside him, but nothing came to her. She could smell the familiarity of Austin and
knew they had arrived. She was shocked
that Jacob didn’t even need to ask where Kirstyn was because he was heading in
the direction where Grandpa Niles used to live.
~!~
“And just what do you
think you’re going to do with that, Kirstie?” Eric sneered, standing in the
doorway with a steel crowbar in his hand, arching a slow brown eyebrow. He was bulky, standing just above six feet and
had dark green eyes with short cut black hair.
“If you know what’s good for you, sweetheart, you’ll lower that weapon
and come with me without a fuss.”
Kirstyn was shaking so
hard her teeth rattled, absolutely refusing to go with him willingly. “No.” She
stated, cocking the magnum, wondering if she could remember how to fire it.
“I’m not your property.”
“Oh but you are. I paid good money for your little perky ass
and you belong to me!” Eric growled, tossing the crowbar he used to break into the
house aside. “Come on sweetheart, you gonna shoot me or what?”
“No, I’m going to
expose you for the monster you are. You
thought you destroyed me and any evidence that proved I existed because of
Sandra. Guess what, Dawson, you were
WRONG!” Kirstyn stated heatedly, informing him without actually giving away
what her grandfather did for her. She
would be forever in his debt. “Now step back.”
“Ooo a woman in
command.” Eric purred seductively, licking his lips hungrily, though he wasn’t
moving back or forward. He was standing
right where he was, eyeing the bed with a sick smirk. “Sooner or later, I will
have what’s mine, Kirstie…”
“MY NAME IS NOT
KIRSTIE! IT’S KIRSTYN!!” She screamed,
blinking as huge tears slid down her cheeks, the gun trembling in her
hands. If she didn’t get a grip on her
emotions soon, Kirstyn knew she’d make a mistake and give Eric the opening he
needed. “I’m warning you, I will shoot if you don’t stay where you are!”
“Then do it,
sweetheart.” Eric taunted, challenging her with glowing venomous eyes. “You
don’t have the spine to shoot me.”
“Yes I do.”
“No you don’t because
if you were going to shoot me, you would’ve done it by now.” Eric stated with
confidence, slowly stepping toward her, watching with predatory eyes as she backed
up from him. “Now give me the gun.”
“NO!!” Kirstyn pulled
the trigger when he was about three steps away from her, the bullet lodging in
his shoulder, causing him to fly back on the floor screaming in agony. “STAY
AWAY FROM ME!!” On pure instinct, Kirstyn ran past him out the door, crying out
when he grabbed her ankle and twisted, sending her and the gun flying to the
floor.
“YOU STUPID LITTLE
BITCH!!” Eric roared, holding his shoulder as the blood poured out of it, not
believing she actually shot him. “GET
OVER HERE!!”
“NO!!” Kirstyn
screamed as loud as she possibly could, kicking and trying to get his hand off
of her ankle.
She nailed him in the
nose, hearing a sickening crack resonate throughout the room, knowing she broke
it. Eric screeched in pain, releasing
her ankle as he held his nose, the blood pooling beneath him because of how big
of a hole the bullet left. Kirstyn
scrambled up on her feet, ignoring the pain in her ankle, and found the gun as
she reached for it.
“Oh no you don’t!”
Eric growled, finding some kind of strength to tackle her to the floor.
Kirstyn screamed,
hitting him in the face with the butt of the magnum and rolled away when he
tried pinning her. He had a huge knot
forming on his forehead from how hard she hit him, though Kirstyn knew she was
far from out of the woods yet. Managing
to get to her feet, Kirstyn kicked him in the stomach, causing him to grunt and
double over before flying out of the room with the gun in hand. She flew down the winding staircase, hearing
him bellowing her name, but Kirstyn wasn’t stopping.
“KIRSTYN!!!!!”
Jacob and Mikayla had
just reached the house, hearing screaming and commotion coming from it, both of
their hearts nearly stopping. That was
until Kirstyn flew out of the house, stumbling down the stairs and fell to her
knees, crying out in pain. Eric would be
coming after her and Kirstyn had only one bullet left. If she didn’t hit him in the head or heart,
she was done for.
Looking up as shadows cast
over her, Kirstyn’s cobalt eyes widened in shock at the sight of two wolves
standing over her. Her eyes went from
the blood red one to the reddish-brown wolf, the russet colored one, who saved
her in Canada. Kirstyn covered her
bloody hand with her hand, having gotten cut on a nail upstairs when Eric
tackled her, tears streaming down her cheeks.
“I-It’s you…” She
whispered in shock, reaching out to touch the wolf with her hand, staring into
those deep dark eyes.
They reminded her so
much of Jacob…Kirstyn was brought out of the shocked state when she heard
Eric’s trampling footsteps, immediately shoving the wolf back, standing shakily
to her feet. She had the magnum in hand
and closed her eyes, feeling her grandfather surrounding her as the wind picked
up, a streak of lightning flashing across the sky. Gallons of rain began pouring down on all of
them, but Kirstyn was focused, remembering what her grandfather used to tell
her whenever they’d shoot in the backyard.
Never take yer eye
from the target, Kirst.
“KIRSTYN!!” Eric
bellowed as he stumbled out of the front door, a trail of blood following as it
flowed from his shoulder, which he was currently holding. His nose was bloody and he had a huge black
and blue knot on his head. “You’re gonna pay for disrespecting me like this,
you little bitch!”
“I’m not your little
bitch anymore, Eric. It’s over.”
Kirstyn’s voice monotone, clicking the trigger back, squeezing her finger and
begging him to take another step. She
would end his life if that’s what it took to get him out of her life once and
for all. “You tried destroying me, an innocent girl who had a psychotic mother,
all for your own amusement. I’m not
someone you can play with anymore, I’m not a toy and I never will be again.”
“You belong to
me. You’re going to give me that gun and
get on a plane with me to Canada so we can have our wedding.” Eric gritted his
teeth, not believing how much his shoulder hurt.
“I belong to no one,
Eric.” Kirstyn stated with cold cobalt eyes, the wolves standing behind her,
knowing they would back her up if necessary.
“YOU’RE MINE!!”
Eric lunged and that’s
all it took as the gunshot rang throughout the night sky, rain pouring even
harder. Kirstyn watched as Eric looked
down at his chest, a pool of blood quickly showing and flooding through his
shirt as he dropped to his knees, hitting the ground with a sickening
thud. She’d shot him right in his heart,
where it mattered most, and Kirstyn suddenly felt lightheaded as the gun
slipped out of her hand.
Mikayla and Jacob
instantly phased, slipping their clothes on they carried with them on a cord
around their back legs. Jacob caught
Kirstyn before she fainted, her scent overwhelming him. He looked at Mikayla, who had silent tears
streaming down her face, knowing they had to dispose of the body.
“I’ll take care of
it.” Mikayla whispered, already walking over to Eric’s dead body. “I’ll catch
up with you.”
Jacob nodded, knowing
this was something Mikayla had to do by herself and carried Kirstyn back inside
the house.
everything. The first thing she did was claim what was
rightfully hers, what her grandfather left her.
She decided to sell the house because it was a part of her past and she
knew deep down that’s what her grandfather would want.
She kept the bonds and
anything that was worth money, deciding she could pass it down to her children
someday. The bank accounts were all
transferred into her name and Kirstyn could not believe how well off her grandfather
left her. Money didn’t matter to Kirstyn
though; she had Mikayla and Jacob, two people who completed her.
Kirstyn would never
have to work a day in her life with how much money her grandfather left her,
but that didn’t settle with her. She
wanted to make something of herself, having gotten her high school diploma and
enrolled in the same college online courses that Mikayla did, only she was
going for nursing. Mikayla wanted to be
an actual doctor, both girls wanting to help others any way they could.
Jacob stood off in the
distance with his arms folded in front of his muscular chest, wearing a gray
tank top for once, watching Kirstyn.
Most people who had gotten the amount of money she did would’ve simply
splurged and never worked again. Kirstyn
didn’t just want to sit around doing absolutely nothing and he loved her even
more, her ambition very contagious.
A lot had changed
since Jacob brought Kirstyn back to La Push, refusing to leave her in
Texas. He stayed with her for two months
while she got everything situated, the police never once knowing about Eric
Dawson’s death. He was a Canadian and,
according to Kirstyn, lived in the middle of virtually nowhere, so nobody would
miss him.
The first month was
really rough on Kirstyn because she kept waking up from nightmares, Jacob always
there to comfort her and wipe the tears away.
He was thrilled the day they left Texas.
Knowing part of the reason she was having so many nightmares was due to
being in the same house her grandfather and Eric both died in.
Jacob remembered when
Kirstyn asked him about the wolf, the same one she thought she hallucinated in
Canada. He knew he couldn’t lie to her, especially with everything that
happened and what her mother put her through.
Being very gentle and patient, Jacob explained everything about the
pack, including Mikayla being one of them.
That shocked Kirstyn more than hearing that Jacob changed into a wolf,
especially when he revealed that Mikayla was his real sister, that Jim didn’t
father her.
If as if stating Jacob
turned into a wolf wasn’t enough, he then proceeded to explain imprinting,
admitting she was the one for him.
Kirstyn accepted it with an open mind, believing him fully because her
feelings for Jacob ran deeply. Granted,
he was one of her only boyfriends, but…Kirstyn knew he was different and the
one for her. She would never be happy
with any other man besides him and refused to fight her feelings any longer.
It was pointless.
Billy’s reaction was
not one everyone expected. He welcomed
Mikayla into his family, explaining to her he had a sinking feeling Madina was
hiding something from him the day she left.
She actually came down to La Push to tell him she was moving away and he
wished her well. Now he knew what that
sinking feeling was and Billy could tell, just by looking at Mikayla, that his
blood ran through her veins.
Jacob took over the
duties easily because he was born to lead the Quileute pack. He knew his great-grandfather was smiling
down at him, proud that his great-grandson was following in his footsteps…or paw
prints in this instance. Everyone
accepted it, surprisingly even Paul, though Jacob’s first act was banning Jared
from the pack. They couldn’t trust him
and, without trust, there was absolutely nothing he could do for them.
Jared left La Push
soon after, refusing to stick around when he clearly wasn’t wanted.
Another thing nobody
expected was Mikayla and Paul becoming a couple.
Jared’s betrayal put
everything in perspective, especially when Paul explained the whole thing to
her. Mikayla couldn’t believe Jared
would think she would try betraying them, even though it was very coincidental
that she reunited with Kirstyn right after she came back from California. It was all coincidence though and, if Jared
loved her enough, he would’ve trusted Mikayla and not been sneaky about the
background searches. He’d been the one
who got the information for Paul and Sam.
After everything
settled down, Paul asked Mikayla on a date and she accepted, but with a
price. She threatened him that if he
EVER pulled anything remotely close to what he did with the background checks;
she would rip his throat out. Paul fully
agreed, swearing on his life he would never hurt her like that again because he
refused to screw up a really great thing like Jared had.
What felt the most
bizarre to Kirstyn was the fact she had a family with the Quileute tribe. Billy finally met her and thought she was an
absolute doll, warning Jacob that if he hurt her in any way, he would have
words with his father. Jacob simply
nodded, knowing his father was not kidding, refusing to ever hurt Kirstyn
because she’d been through enough of that.
It was time for her to be happy and live life peacefully without any
problems.
It took a long time
for Emily to forgive Sam, though she didn’t leave him. They were meant to be and Emily loved him
regardless of what he did. He could set
fire to her house and she would still love him as much as the day she met him. Nothing would ever stand in the way of their
love, not even betrayal. Though, when
Sam announced he was relinquishing his alpha duties to Jacob,
that made Emily’s heart soar to the heavens.
Kirstyn broke out of
her thoughts and slowly turned around, feeling eyes on her, and smiled at the
sight of Jacob. He was probably standing
there for an hour and she didn’t realize it, though Kirstyn couldn’t help
getting lost whenever she stood on the beach.
She watched as he hopped down from a boulder and walked toward her,
biting her bottom lip.
“How long were you
standing there?” She asked, staring up into his dark eyes, feeling his arms
instantly encircle her waist.
“I’m not sure; you
know I love watching you.” Jacob chuckled, loving the roses erupt in her
cheeks, bending to brush his lips against hers softly. “You were out here
awhile. I wanted to make sure you were
alright.”
“You need to stop
worrying about me so much.”
“That’ll never happen,
Kirs.” Jacob smirked, feeling her hands resting gently on his muscular arms.
“I’ll always worry about you.”
“I know.” She grumbled
good-naturedly, slowly getting used to the over protectiveness Jacob had over
her. How could the man not be
overprotective, especially with everything that happened?
Kirstyn remembered
waking up in her grandfather’s house to the sight of Jacob, seeing how worried
he was. He first demanded why she’d run
off without even talking to him, asking if she enjoyed breaking his heart as
much as Bella had. That stung, though
Kirstyn took it with a grain of salt, knowing she deserved it and much more. Jacob apologized, saying he didn’t mean it,
and made her promise to never run away from him again.
Closing his eyes,
Jacob inhaled the wonderful scent of vanilla and lilacs, wondering how she came
up with that. It could clearly be
smelled over the salty ocean breeze and was very addictive as he nuzzled her
neck lovingly. Kirstyn sighed, running
her fingers through his hair, enjoying this serene moment with him.
“So what were you
thinking about?” Jacob asked, knowing he would probably make her swelter, and
blinked when she pulled him back against her.
Kirstyn absolutely
loved the fact that Jacob ran a toasty temperature because it warmed her up
whenever she was cold. “Everything that’s happened in the past year.” She
whispered, slowly looking up into his eyes, knowing she shouldn’t be thinking
about it all.
“Yeah, it’s been
pretty crazy hasn’t it?” Jacob chortled dryly, shaking his head and pulled
Kirstyn’s back against his chest, his arms wrapping around her waist as they
both watched the sunset. “Do you regret any of it?”
“No.” Kirstyn meant it
as she leaned her head back against his strong chest, sighing. “I don’t even
regret what Sandra did because it ultimately lead me to you.”
“I would’ve much
rather met you on different circumstances, Kirstyn.” Jacob stated evenly,
though he didn’t release her, knowing she needed the ease. He could always feel whenever she was upset
or just needed to be comforted.
“Oh I know that and
I’m not saying it like that. I just…I
just feel like everything happens for a reason.
I feel like what I went through with Eric was a test, to see if I could
truly survive.” Kirstyn knew she didn’t make sense, but refused to keep her
true feelings hidden from Jacob.
Jacob nodded, not
commenting as he closed his eyes, resting his chin on top of her head, loving
the silkiness of her chestnut locks. He
remembered that night and still couldn’t believe Kirstyn was the one to end
Eric’s life. He’d gotten rid of the magnum
by burying it deep in the woods, along with Eric’s ashes, which were scattered
throughout Texas. Mikayla made sure
nothing was left, having burned all the evidence, anything that would link
Kirstyn to his death.
“There you two are!”
Mikayla stated from behind with a grin, wearing a blue jean skirt with an off
the shoulder black top, looking beautiful as ever. “I was wondering if I would
have to call in the search party.”
“Very funny, sis.”
Jacob grunted, shaking his head as he felt Kirstyn shaking silently with
laughter, growling in her ear. “Keep laughing and see what happens.”
Mikayla smirked,
violet eyes sparkling, placing her hands on her hips. “You already know I can
pin your ass in two point five seconds, bro.
You better watch it.”
“Uh huh, sure,
whatever you say.” Jacob snorted, his cockiness coming out, and kissed the top
of Kirstyn’s head. “What do you want?”
“I came to remind you
about the meeting you wanted to have with the pack tonight. Apparently, there’s a new addition coming in
that Leah met and she wants you to meet him.” Mikayla informed with a smile,
walking over, hugging Kirstyn tightly. “You okay sweetie?”
“I’m fine.” Kirstyn
giggled softly, shaking her head at both Jacob and Mikayla, still not believing
they were related. “I was just thinking of something funny.”
“What?” They both
asked in unison, causing her to laugh harder, and dodged Jacob as he growled.
“Later if you’re a good pup.”
“Pup?” Jacob blinked
as Mikayla and Kirstyn leaned against each other, rolling with laughter. “I am
FAR from a pup, baby.”
“Oh yes oh alpha one.”
Mikayla snorted out more laughter, doubled over, holding her stomach. “Oh man
it hurts!”
Jacob folded his arms
in front of his chest impatiently, waiting for them to stop. “Are you two
finished yet?” He demanded gruffly, running a hand through his short cut black
hair.
“Yeah sorry sweetie.”
Kirstyn smiled as he pulled her into his arms, laughing when he growled
something about her owing him for it later, kissing her passionately.
“Oh god, okay can you
two please wait until you’re alone before sucking face?” Mikayla fake gagged,
jumping nearly out of her skin when Paul came up behind her, poking her sides.
“PAUL!”
It was Jacob and
Paul’s turn to laugh, Kirstyn even giggling, apologizing to Mikayla through
gasps of air. “That was not very nice Paul.” She finally managed to say,
wishing she was part of the pack.
“I couldn’t resist.”
Paul smirked and yanked Mikayla into his arms, raising an eyebrow when she
tried shoving him away. “You know that doesn’t work with me, Red.”
Red was a nickname he gave
her because of the color of her fur, though Mikayla gave him hell for it every
time he used it. “Stop calling me that.” She growled, twisting and torquing her body, trying to get free, but it wasn’t
happening.
“Aww you know you
secretly love it.” He nuzzled her neck, holding her from behind like Jacob was
with Kirstyn, his hot breath on her ear. “I’ll make it up to you later, Mika.”
“Uh huh you bet your
ass you will.” Mikayla smirked, eyes turning from his dark orbs to Kirstyn,
leaning against Paul’s chest. “Now what were you saying before he decided to
interrupt?”
Kirstyn laughed
softly, shrugging her shoulders. “I was just thinking how ironic it is that
after all these years we’ve called each other sisters forever, it turns out
that we’ll really be sisters in a few months when Jacob and I get married.”
Mikayla grinned from
ear to ear, never thinking of it that way. “Wow that’s very ironic.” I guess we
were truly destined to be sisters and this is fate’s way of doing it.
“Exactly.”
Kirstyn had agreed to
marry Jacob when he asked her a few months ago, the simple silver band on her
left ring finger. There was no stone and
that’s the way Kirstyn wanted it, having picked it out. When Jacob told her he’d buy her a different
one, Kirstyn threatened him bodily harm, loving her simple ring, not wanting a
big rock.
“Jacob, ten minutes
man.” Paul rolled his eyes when Mikayla elbowed him. “How many times do I have
to tell you that doesn’t hurt?”
“I’ll MAKE it hurt if
you don’t knock it off.” Mikayla growled, trying not to laugh when Paul wiggled
his eyebrows together suggestively, rolling her eyes. “You are such a pervert.”
“Damn straight.” Paul
growled, lifting her up over his shoulder, deciding they would have their own
private meeting before the pack’s. “We’ll meet you
there.”
Jacob and Kirstyn
laughed as they watched Paul cart Mikayla off, shaking their heads, still not
believing those two ended up together.
“You should get going before you’re late.” Kirstyn whispered, turning
around to stare into Jacob’s beautiful eyes, kissing his lips softly. “I’ll
meet you at home.”
“You got it. I love you.” Jacob murmured, running a finger
down her cheek, really not wanting to leave her. “Are you sure you’re alright?”
“Yes, I love you too;
now go before I beat you.”
Jacob laughed from low
in his throat, the sound husky as he laid a soul searing kiss on her lips
before taking off into the woods.
Kirstyn watched him go, the wind whipping around her, looking out at the
water again deep in thought. All this time,
Kirstyn thought her life was full of agony and despair, but it turned out that
now she could finally have the tranquility and normality she desperately craved
while captured by Eric.
“Dear agony, thank you
for giving me a second chance at life.” She whispered and turned around,
heading home to wait for Jacob.
The End.