Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter 1

Broken Doors and Broken Hearts

____________________________

    Paranoia is just the mind playing tricks. 

    But Leah Clearwater was fucking done with tricks!

    It’s been exactly three weeks, four days and ten hours since she’s seen her fiancée, Sam Uley. The intense anger pulling at his features, his bulky frame trembling with a thick coat of sweat covering his skin. Ever since that night, the eighteen year old waited impatiently at the back door, which was still nearly hanging off its hinges when Sam ran through it. She made another mental note to call someone to fix it.

    Leah arranged a search party two days after, balancing on the edge of a mental breakdown. Flashes of pessimistic images flew through her mind constantly. Did he fall off the cliffs and drowned in La Push waters? Did a mountain lion get to the best of him? She feared what she would find when she did see him again… if she saw him again.

    Her eyes screwed shut, chasing the nerve wracking thought away. 

    She will see him, again. And then she’ll cover his face with kisses and jump his bones. Then beat his ass afterwards, of course.

    Leah jumped from the kitchen when the back door squeaked again. Tears burned her eyes, knowing it was just the wind and the loose hinges making fun of her again. 

    She hastily finished the dishes and grabbed the phone from the wall. The damn door was getting on her nerves.

    “Hello?” A deep ragged voice answered.

    Leah forced a smile, even though he wasn’t here. “Hey, Billy. Is your son there? I need my door fixed because—” Her throat went thick as the door squeaked. “It’s—It’s broken…” 

    A heavy sigh went through the speaker. “Of course. I’ll send him right over.”

    There was an unwavering, heavy silence and the question was lingering on her lips, desperate to be said. 

    “Did… Did you hear anything? A—About Sam?”  A warm tear escaped and was brushed away.

    “No, I’m sorry.” Disappointment flooded his voice, even though it was to be expected. A bad mixture of doubt and paranoia was starting to reel in, and it was going to crush her. 

    A silent sob shook her small frame, and slammed the phone back into its receiver. 

    An hour of sobbing later, there was a knock on the door. Leah rubbed at her face harshly, hoping to scrub away any traces of tears. 

    Fifteen year old, Jacob Black, stood at her door with a friendly grin and a tool box in his right hand. Small raindrops laid on the strands of his long hair, and he slightly rocked on his heels, and fidgeted with something in his coat pocket. 

    “‘Sup, Leah. Dad said something about your door?”

    She almost forgot how young Jacob really was, and second thoughts about trusting him to fix her door crawled in her mind. 

    “Are you sure you can handle this?”

    Jacob rolled his eyes, his smile getting wider (if possible). He let himself in, confidence booming from his lean figure. “Trust me, this is children’s work.” He double backed and gave her an apologetic look. “No offense.”

    Leah shut the door. “None taken.” 

    As Jacob went to work, switching out screws and bolts, Leah watched him with a cup of tea in her hands. She focused on the burn on her tongue, trying to stop her mind from drifting.

    She cleared her throat, shifting in her seat. “So, how’s Seth doing?”

    Her four year younger brother is now a freshman at the Quileute high school, and she could only imagine him running through the halls with big, bright eyes, messing with shit he shouldn’t mess with. Like actually using the restrooms and joining into other people’s conversations, or just being completely naive. 

    Jacob took a while to answer, either too focused on his work or hesitating to give her an honest response. 

    “Seth is doing great… at being a freshman, I suppose.” He chuckled. “The upper class men tend to pick on him though. I try to keep them off him.”

    Leah snorted.  “How? You’re only a sophomore.”

    Jacob turned towards her with a sly smile and a wink. “Being the Chief’s son gives you some perks. Nobody would even dare to touch the future heir to the throne .” His voice was thick with mock and play. 

    A small laugh escaped her lips, and the smile didn’t leave as Jacob continued to rant about the hellish days of high school. He did dramatic hand gestures to prove his point, looking absolutely ridiculous. His impressions on his English teacher with a horrific nasal voice really made Leah’s laughter break through. The different kinds of tears stung her eyes as she clutched her stomach. Even a small drop of tea fell onto her sweats. When she couldn’t hardly speak, nor breathe, she caught Jacob watching her with a warm smile. It was then she realized that he was doing this on purpose. This lanky, fifteen year old boy was providing her with a distraction, replacing her gloomy mood with simple joy.

    And she has never been more thankful.   

    Jacob left hours ago, and the clock struck six in the evening. Another knock on the door interrupted Leah’s profuse cleaning. The floors were swept, the counters were reflective, and the entire house smelled like pine sol and scented candles. Leah convinced herself that when Sam does come back, she wanted the house to look perfect as if nothing changed and she was going through turmoil. But in reality, she needed to keep herself busy, at all times.

    And that’s why she called her best friend.

    Emily Young stepped through the house with bags weighing her down. Leah quickly went to her aid, letting excitement flow through. Her cousin made sure to grab their favorite movies, snacks, and books, anything to fill in silences and provide distractions. 

    “I’m sorry I’m late. It’s a long drive form the Makkah Rez.” Emily dropped half of the bags on the couch. “Ooo, it smells good in here.”

    Leah scoffed at herself.  “Yeah. But thanks for coming, Em. I really needed… this.”

    Emily instantly enveloped her cousin into a hug, not able to contain her need to comfort others. Leah always knew that Emily would make a great mother, always putting others' needs before her own and making sure everyone else is taken care of. Leah was almost envious of her selflessness. 

    They went headfirst into binge watching, and stuffing their faces with kettle popcorn and Hershey chocolates. Every movie was an action film; romance wasn’t an option. Emily showed pictures of her one year old niece, Claire, and Leah reminded herself to spoil the toddler later. 

    They were on the verge of a sugar rush when the phone rang. Emily popped up from the sofa, volunteering to answer. 

    “Leah’s house!” Emily beamed. 

    Leah rolled her eyes playfully, knowing that this house wasn’t necessarily hers. Sam bought this house six months ago, in preparation when they were married. Everyone commented on how they were moving fast for eighteen and nineteen year olds, but they were ready , already into deep to quit or slow down, 

    Emily’s smile dropped. Her slanted eyes widening, and her posture stiffened. 

    The air shifted and it was almost too thick to breathe. Leah muted the TV, trying to make sense in the sudden mood change. When they locked eyes, Leah knew. 

    Sam Uley’s been found.

    Dead or alive? Dead or alive? Dead or alive?

    The words became a mantra as she sped through the streets of La Push. Emily tried to reassure that things are going to be okay, that Sam was okay. But the frantic teenager was past listening. As if her head was being held underwater, everything was suffocated, blurred from reality. She had one focus point, and that was the love of her life. 

    She couldn’t get to Old Quil’s house fast enough. Every move she made felt like she was caught in a bad dream, her body moved like bricks and the ground resembled quicksand. She was sinking in her thoughts, every single one darker than the last. 

    She doesn’t remember knocking on the door, but it swung open.

    A sob disturbed the night, as Leah Clearwater threw herself into Sam Uley. 

    He was alive. He was breathing, and he was safe. 

    “You’re okay! You’re—You’re okay!”

    A shuddering breath escaped his lips, as he held her tightly. She could barely breathe but it didn’t matter. The inescapable warmth of his arms was enough for her to forget the world, and so she did as she pressed her lips onto his. 

    But it didn’t last forever. 

    Emily let out a sigh of relief behind them. “I’m so glad you’re okay! Leah was worried sick.” 

    Sam broke the embrace to send Emily a reassuring smile, probably preparing to send a ‘thank you for looking out for her.’ But once he looked at Emily, his face went slack. His bronze skin turned pale, and something snapped. 

    Leah backed away from Sam, with her eyebrows furrowed. She watched Old Quil walk out the house with a knowing expression, and it transitioned into pity towards the tear soaked girl. 

    Leah knew. She absolutely knew that something changed. She felt every string connecting to Sam snip. And she was suddenly floating through a state of numbness, with no gravity to hold her down.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2

Trust

    The sound of bones cracking rippled through the forest, followed by a shattering scream. An intense heat engulfed every nerve, and thunder rumbled in his body. The air tasted toxic, like nature was suddenly against him, too. The cold winds couldn’t touch him, it suddenly felt as if fire was licking his skin. A growl trembled in his throat— not human , not human at all. Threatening claws pierced through, allowing drips of blood to coat the evergreen grass, and his mouth tasted like metallic iron as sharp teeth punctured holes into his tongue. Then voices bounced into his head that wasn’t his own. 

    It was a dangerous edge to balance on—life and death. 

    And Jacob Black didn’t know where he would land.

    With a terrified gasp, the sixteen year old werewolf jumped up from his bedsheets, covered in sweat and was on the verge of phasing. 

    The horrific dream began to fade, although it wasn’t much of a dream, more like an unforgettable memory that was now etched to his mind. Jacob phased for the first time two months ago, and his life took so many twisted turns that if he dwelled on it long enough, a headache would bloom. 

    His father, Billy Black, was already in the kitchen, attempting to make breakfast. It was kind of hard for him, due to being bound to a wheelchair, but he never gave up on trying to do normal activities. 

    Jacob yawned and rushed to the stove. “Dad, you don’t gotta make breakfast. I got it.”

    Billy waved his hand, dismissing it. “It’s fine. It’s not much of a breakfast, anyway. Just eggs.”

    An embarrassed blush flamed Jacob’s ears knowing he was the one why the fridge was taken over by cobwebs. Ever since his first phase, he’s been eating them out of a home. He would eat the sofa if he could. 

    “I’m sorry about that…” Jacob was not the shy type, and would face the meanest giant, but he always felt small next to his father. Like a child sitting on their parent’s lap. It was a ridiculous notion, especially since his new found purpose is to kill vampires.

    Billy chuckled, and grabbed the spatula. “Don’t worry about it. Besides, I understand. Now, come get some eggs and pass me the salt ‘n pepper.”

    Jacob finished his food first (like always), and began washing his dish. His eyes are always darting through the windows and towards the tree line. He could faintly hear the small movements beyond the shadows of the forest, and he could already smell the future rain that was bound to pour. His senses were sharp and clear, even breathing felt different. But he is always on the edge of his seat, almost waiting for danger to happen. Would a vampire come here? What if one gets past the pack? Will my dad be okay? Can I protect him in time? Is Bella okay?

    Jacob damn near broke a dish at the mere thought of Bella Swan. She has been stuck to his side like glue ever since the Cullen family left. Dark circles were permanted around her eyes, and she was skinnier than before. Nothing like the girl before that completely lit up when she received the monstrosity of a truck. But things got better. She smiled a little bit more, and cried a little bit less. Jacob was never the one to brag, but he couldn’t help but to feel as if it had something to do with him. It wasn’t as if he specifically tried to heal that unknown hole in her chest, he was there. And right now, it didn’t matter if Bella wanted him to be more than just there or not. As long as she smiled a little bit more, and cried a little bit less. 

    A howl tore through the air. It shook every nerve in Jacob’s body, and there was no hesitation. 

    Almost breaking a few things on the way, Jacob leaped to the tree line, and ripped his clothes to shreds. Once his skin was now covered his fur, and his canine teeth were bared, multiple voices shouted through his mind, almost making him lose focus.

    Where is she?

    Holy shit do y’all smell that?

    Anyone got a lead?

    FUCK SHES HERE!

    The nauseating sweet smell cut through his nose like tiny knives, but he didn’t second guess to follow the trail. 

      I got it! Jacob shouted through the pack mind. It’s strong as fuck, we’re gonna get her this time!

    Then everyone sprang into action, coordinating together like a sacred dance. Sam, being the alpha, was in the lead, catching the sight of flaming red hair. Jared was on the right flank, along with Paul, who was the most eager out of everyone. Quil and Embry were trailing Sam, barking in anticipation. Jacob, however, was on the left flank, and being the fastest in the pack gave him an edge. His job was to get in front of the leech, and catch her by surprise and then kill her, or at least give the pack enough time to finish the job. But knowing how much trouble she caused for the pack and Bella, her head was definitely going to get torn off by his teeth.

    Awwww, how sweet. You’re gonna avenge your lil’ white girl, huh? Paul taunted, laughter echoing in his mind. 

    Jacob almost fumbled, forgetting slightly how much his private thoughts weren’t as private anymore.

      Focus ! Sam ordered, gaining more momentum.

    That’s all it took for the pack to put back into order. Alpha orders came in handy when thoughts drifted sideways (especially explicit ones) or when nobody could get their shit together in time. But other than that, it was a true pain in the ass.

    With mockery in his thoughts, Sam retorted. Well, I’m sorry you feel like that, now get out your feelings so we can kill this bitch. 

    His words only fueled Jacob’s anger as his paws dug into the forest floors. He could almost taste the vampire as she came into full view. He pushed her god awful scent to the side and focused on his plan. With a sharp turn, he rushed to the far left, and in the next second the red headed leech came rushing to him and bared teeth. But in unpredictable, swift movement, she jumped to the trees overhead, and Jacob managed to graze her exposed ankle.

    FUCK FUCK FUCK FUC-

    Blinding anger clouded his vision as he chased her scent, even as she hopped to one tree to the next. He finally caught up to her with the pack right behind him, but she took a huge dive into the water, escaping them once again. 

    That little bitch is starting to really get on my nerves, Quil growled. 

    Yeah, no shit! Jacob was seething as he paced the edge of the cliff. But then he froze, as another scent tickled his senses. Strawberries. 

    His large wolf head snapped towards another cliff yards away. A small figure stood on the edge, dancing with the balance of life and death. 

    Oh… you GOT TO ME KIDDING ME! Without hesitation, Jacob rushed through the pack and followed the scent of strawberries.

    Out of all days, out of all fucking days, Bella Swan decided to go cliff diving, in the beginning of a storm! Not to mention, a fucking leech is in the waters! 

    The wind whipped past him in a painful motion, but he brushed it off easily, hyper focused on one goal and one purpose. It didn’t take him long to hit the beach and phase at the same time. He mentally prayed that no one else was on the beach to see a six foot wolf transform into a frantic naked man. He didn’t dwell on the fact he was indeed butt ass naked. 

    The piercing cold water didn’t bother him, but what shook him to the core was Bella's dangerously still body. Her skin was practically frozen, her lips were blue, and her pulse was slowly declining. 

    Not allowing himself to panic, he breathed into her and started CPR. The mere thought of attending Bella Swan’s funeral sent tears streaming down his face. Her body lifeless, cold…. like a vampire. 

    He choked back a sob, still pumping her chest. “C’mon, Bella! You don’t get to die… you don’t get to die…” 

    He repeated the process again, and again, until the water mixed with throw up gurgled out of her mouth and onto the sand. 

    Bella finally breathed in and coughed, her fingers digging into Jacob’s arm for support, to know that he was actually he was. His smile couldn’t stretch any wider, as he wiped away his burning tears. 

    “You couldn’t wait till tomorrow, huh? Crazy girl.” Jacob teased, unable to find the power to be mad at her. He watched her eyes go wide like a deer, completely confused from the last few minutes. Color began to return to her cheeks with a slight shiver in her teeth. She was alive with warmth, and Jacob began to vow that she would stay like this. Healthy with human blood pumping through her veins.

    It was then a revelation scorched through him, almost throwing him off balance. 

    Jacob Black was in love with Bella Swan.

    Before any words were said, Sam appeared running towards them. An expression torn between mortified and regret pulling at his features. He suddenly looked older than twenty years old, and his shoulders slumped more than before. 

    Before Jacob could ask what happened, Sam threw a pair of cargo shorts in his direction. Jacob quickly put them on, as Bella shut her eyes; their faces went red. 

    “Take her home, quick . Then meet up at the Clearwaters.” The way Sam said the name, a heavy sadness filled the air. Jacob furrowed his thick eyebrows, while propping Bella up to her feet. 

    “What happened?”

    Sam avoided eye contact, the smell of oncoming tears was unavoidable to both werewolves. 

    “Harry had a heart attack…” Sam whispered.

    Bella croaked with a gasp. “Oh my god! Is he okay?” 

    Jacob screwed his eyes shut. Please don’t be…

    But the thick silence was a loud answer to everyone’s question. 

    Harry Clearwater was dead.

    With a shuddering breath, Jacob asked. “How is everyone? Seth, Sue…. Leah?”

    Sam visibly flinched and Jacob would’ve thought he would break down right then and there. He shook his head to the question and ran towards the tree line. 

    The car ride silence was filled by Bella’s shuddering and sniffling. She was currently wearing Jacob’s old t-shirt and basketball shorts he could no longer wear due to his dramatic growth spurt, and her coat hung her small shoulders while she held her knees close to her chest. 

    Jacob grinned, glancing towards her then to the road. “Y’know it’s one hundred degrees over here.”

    Bella raised her eyebrows but didn’t hesitate to crawl to his side.  “ God, 

She let out an exaggerated breath, stealing every bit of warmth he had to offer. “must be nice never getting cold.”

    “It’s a wolf thing.” 

    Bella shook her head. “No… it’s a Jacob Thing. You have always been warm, inside and out. You’re like your own sun.” 

    Her words affected him more than it should’ve. Jacob didn’t know a heart could soar and he didn’t know that his smile could get even more wider than it already is. His arm around her tightened slightly, as they stopped in front of the house. 

    “Bells…” He spoke low, trying to find the words.   “The sun gets blocked by the clouds, and by the most vicious storms. Even the moon takes its place.”

    An adorable frown appeared on her forehead, and he could see her trying to make sense of what he was trying to say. They were dangerously close to each other, sharing the same air and warmth. Both of their hearts pounded against their chest, anticipating the next few minutes. 

    “The sun might be hidden, or it might be dark… but it’s still there, waiting to shine again to keep you warm, again.” Jacob whispered, only inches away from her face. Her rosy lips were tempting, and it made his thoughts scramble and vision become cloudy. 

    Then it happened.

    Jacob didn’t recall moving any closer, matter of fact, he was rooted in his seat. The most shocking part of it all, was that Bella kissed him. 

    It was a mind boggling day, of course, but every event that has occurred was gone. Disappeared into thin air. Nothing else made sense, but Bella Swan kissing him did. He couldn’t control the gasp that escaped, and the truck seemed smaller when he started kissing her back. She tasted better than his fantasies, her fingers brushing against the nape of his neck definitely felt different. The house could blow up in flames and he wouldn’t even blink an eye. Even the remembrance of his own name was blurry.

    But some things never fade. 

    Not even the poisonous stench of a vampire. 

    Their lips parted with an audible smack, as his face hardened. Bella’s dazed expression turned into shock, backing away as if she did something wrong.

    “What’s wrong? Did—Did I do something—”

    “Vampire!” Jacob scrambled for the keys and turned the ignition. “ Shit, get her out of here… or phase? Fuck fuck fuck. ..”

    Bella frantically shifted in the truck, as her eyes locked on black, shiny car parked across from the house. Her eyes went wide, and a shuddering breath left her.

    “ Oh my god! That’s Carlisle’s car!” 

    Before Jacob could realize what was happening, Bella already scrambled herself out of the car, her slightly wet hair whipping in the breeze. 

    “Bella! Don’t!” Jacob followed her, his body trembling at the strong scent of a vampire. In his head, he began to count how many seconds it would take for a vampire to kill a human. He started to focus when he started to think about the many ways a vampire could kill a human in those seconds. 

    He grabbed her arm with more force than necessary. “ Please , get back in the car. Alight? It’s not safe here.”

    Bella grunted, trying to escape from his grasp. “They won’t hurt me! The Cullens are in there.”

    Jacob closed his eyes, trying to calm his breathing while reciting the treaty in his head. “If the Cullens are here, then this is their turf. I can’t protect you here, Bella!”

    Her voice turned soft. “Jake… trust me.” 

    His grip loosened, and she took the chance immediately and hurried into the house. His teeth gritted together as they sharpened slightly. He refused to phase in her front yard, because the last thing anyone needs is national security showing up to small town Forks because the neighbors were being nosy. 

    His feet were glued to the porch, straining his sensitive hearing throughout the house. No screams, nothing breaking… just casual conversation, although he almost broke down the door when he heard Bella sniffle with cries. When he heard his name, he let himself in the house. 

    Jacob didn’t know what he was expecting while confronting a vampire without bursting into fur, but he was definitely not expecting a four eleven, pixie. His surprise took over his angry mask, and was wondering where the real vampires were. Her eyes glowed golden and disgust painted over her perfectly angled features.

    “I can’t see past you and your pack of mutts. ” 

    Jacob growled at the insult. “Do not get me upset, leech. ”

    Bella rose from her seat, putting herself between them both. Jacob wondered what kind of balls did Bella possessed to cliff dive during a storm, and put herself in between two unstable supernatural creates in one night. 

    “Alice, please.” Bella pleaded. The small vampire rolled her eyes, calming down. 

    “Find, I’ll come back as soon as you put the dog out.” Alice smirked, giving Jacob one more last look before leaving. 

    Jacob skipped the pleasantries, earning a look of annoyance. “How many are there, and how long are they staying?” The actual question he wanted to ask was itching at him, but he couldn’t bear the thought of it. If he was back, every inch of progress that has occurred between him and Bella would vanish into smoke, evaporating completely. But then her words rung into his mind.

    Trust me. 

    Bella huffed, walking into the kitchen. “It’s just Alice, and she can stay as long as she likes.”

    Jacob groaned, following her. “You know I have to ask, right? We are already chasing that red head, and the pack needs to know what the hell is going on.”

    “The Cullens are not a threat!” Bella shirked, tired of repeating herself. “They’re not going to hurt anyone.”

    He threw his arms in the air, dramatically. “They already did! Look at what they did to you! ”

    Bella went silent and quickly turned towards the sink, her back facing towards him. Jacob automatically regretted his words, and mumbled an apology. Lately his tongue has become more unpredictable and fueled by anger, but by the change of events that’s been occurring lately, it was harder to bite them down.

    “Bells… listen,” He gently turned her around, to reveal her glassy eyes. He stepped closer, cupping her face. It was a bold move but honestly, he was afraid. She was so close to becoming herself again, and he was determined to fight off any kind of evil away that threatened her healing. And he was also afraid that she would forget. Every moment they shared in that small garage, surrounded by pizza boxes, warm sodas, and motorcycles. And the kiss. 

    Paranoia sunk in, and it hurt deeply.

    Bella relaxed under his palms, leaning towards him, as he whispered. “ Please…. kwop kilawtley…”

    She sighed against his lips as they brushed together in the slightest movement—

    RRIIINNNNGGG

    The sound was the most annoying shit Jacob has ever heard and he wanted to throw the phone out of the window. Hopefully it would’ve landed on the small pixie. 

    With trembling hands, Jacob grabbed the phone off the receiver and placed it to his ear. Of course, it was weird for someone else to answer your own phone, but Bella didn’t mind, knowing that he spent more years here than she has in the past years. She shifted comfortable at his side, still blushing. 

    “Is Chief Swan there?” The voice was smooth as silk, with an edge that Jacob couldn’t comprehend. It was unnerving.

    Jacob didn’t bother hiding the irritation in his voice, “No, he isn’t. He’s helping prepare a funeral.” The slight mention of Harry Clearwater’s recent death made a sharp pain go through his chest, overshadowing the tremble down his spine. 

    But then there was a silence seeping through the phone, that prickles his senses. It made sense… the sickeningly perfect voice…

    The phone hung up before another word was said, and Jacob was sure of it.

    Bella backed away with a confused smile. “Jake, who was that?”

    “ Always in the fucking way.” The words came in a rush, mixing in with inhuman snarls. 

    Bella’s face shifted into a look of horror and worry, as she repeated, “Who was on the phone?”

    Alice appeared in the kitchen with wide eyes. “Bella! It’s Edward!”

    Everything in the past five minutes, happened in a confusing blur. Bella packed a bag, Alice bought airplane tickets, and Jacob is hanging on a loose thread from losing his mind. 

    “Bella are you high? Are you riding on stupid? You can’t go to fucking Italy! Especially in front of a bloodsucking government!” Jacob was hot on her heels as Bella rushed towards Alice’s car. The car was already fired up to race down the street.

    “I won’t let him kill himself over guilt.” Bella sniffed, throwing her bag into the car. “Take care of Charlie for me, t—tell him I left a note.” She stammered upon her tears.

    Panic rose in his chest, as he almost tripped against the car. He ignored how close he was hovering above the leech, not even considering her a threat compared to how small she was and how large he was. The image of Bella lifeless and cold appeared in his mind like an unforgettable nightmare. He refused to let it become a reality.

    “Bella, I’m begging you. You can’t die! Think of Charlie, your friends… me. ” His voice cracked as his grip tightened on the car door. 

    A tear trailed down her cheekbone, as she locked in her seatbelt.  “I’m sorry, Jake…”

    Then she left. With her past words echoing in the sixteen year old werewolf’s mind. 

    Trust me. 

    The tear didn’t get to escape his eyes as he barely managed to phase at the tree line. He immediately regretted it. 

    The pack mind was in shambles. The chaos was almost too much to handle and Jake let out a howl that shook the entire forest. Everyone’s thoughts overlapped the other, but it was two minds that felt foreign to him, but those were the loudest. Full of pure agony. 

    Leah and Seth Clearwater phased

Chapter Text

Chapter 3

A Woman Scorned

    What happens when your childhood nightmares become your recent reality? You ask yourself if the boogeyman is actually under your bed, or if there’s a demon scratching behind your closet door. Never did Leah Clearwater ever think that she would be the monster in her nightmares. The ones with sharp claws, teeth that could tear through metal, something to be feared. 

    She couldn’t face her mother, she couldn’t face the spot where her father clutched his chest, so she raced towards the bathroom, locking herself away. Maybe if she stayed within these four small walls, that life could go back to normal. Because the alternative was going to kill her, slowly but surely. 

    With her eyes closed, she began to run through everything that happened in the past week. 

1. Her father died.

    Leah slapped a hand over her mouth, trying to muffle a sob. Although the list was going to get more painful, she knew the pain was the only true proof that she wasn’t still dreaming. 

1. She becomes a werewolf.

    Leah almost laughed. It’s pretty fucking hilarious that out of all of the horrible shit that could’ve occurred—more than once—being a werewolf had to be one of them. It was truly ridiculous that whenever she gets angry or threatened, she bursts into a big ball of fur and growls. Focusing on the struggles of shaving every week made her sober a little, although it caused her to tremble on the bathroom floor. 

1. Sam Uley is her fucking Alpha!

    That was the most utter bullshit she had to witness. The legends can kiss her ass for all she cared, but she refused to let Sam be in complete charge of her. But that was the thing, she couldn't refuse! Whatever voodoo magic Sam possessed, she couldn’t disobey his commands. It shook her to the core, and she almost phased in the bathroom. 

1. Sam imprinted on Emily six months ago.

    Well ain’t that ‘bout a bitch. Imprinting. What kind of sadistic bullshit was that? No free will. Nothing. Maybe if it happened with someone else, anyone else would have sufficed. But her cousin? The only other person she confided in, and trusted with cringeworthy secrets. Then nobody bothered to fucking tell her! Kept her in the dark for months, pondering and wondering why she wasn’t enough for him, to leave her three weeks, then come back and kick her to the curb for her best friend. The entire thing is sick.  

1. Vampires exist

    Honestly, that was the true icing on the cake. 

    Leah rose from the floor with shaky legs and trembling lips. She glanced in the mirror that was stained with random toothpaste colors and fingerprints. Her reflection was horrendous at best. Her long hair possessed small twigs and leaves, dirt was smeared across her face and all over her body. Her lips are currently healing from the bruises from getting used to her canine teeth in wolf form. Her hazel eyes were puffy and red. She resembled a drunk that barely got out of a bar fight alive. 

    To her surprise, a giggle escaped her lips. The giggle turned into a laugh, and the laugh turned into a full cackle. Her life took an interesting turn and she was pretty convinced this was her personal hell, and everyone was just visitors passing by, making things worse. 

    But Leah Clearwater knew she would be able to refuse one thing. She refused to be seen as weak, like a paper wall threatened by a pair of scissors. She wanted to be the brick wall that could stand through the harshest storms. No more tears, no more nice guy. 

    Leah snarled to herself. “I’ll show everyone what real hell looks like.” 

    With only three hours of sleep, she was disturbed out of her bed. Her little brother stood over with a small smile. Bags rested under his eyes, either from stress or deprivation of sleep, most likely both. 

    “There’s a pack meeting in five minutes. I would have woken you up sooner but…. I know you haven’t been sleeping right and—”

    Leah cut him off before he started rambling.  “S’okay Seth,” She slurred, rubbing her eyes. “Where’s the meeting?”

    Seth hesitated, as if he was trying to find the right words. “At… uhm… Sam’s house.” 

    Her eyes went into slits, and a string of curse words fell from her lips in a low growl. Sam’s House. Now known as Sam and Emily’s House. It was as if he took everything from her and gave it to Emily. Leah wouldn’t be surprised if Emily was wearing the engagement ring that she never got. She couldn’t phase back for two days after finding out about their upcoming wedding. 

    “We don’t have to go!” Seth blurted, following her stomps. “We could just stay here and actually get some sleep.”

    Knowing Seth was trying to be defiant with his big sister was admirable, but he instead looked like a puppy with an attitude, instead of the wolf he actually is. 

    Leah couldn’t help but to crackle a smile, and ruffled his hair. She could hate the entire world with flames behind her, but she could never hold any animosity towards her little brother.

    Speaking of family, sadness pulled at the corner of her lips. “Did you check on mom, yet.” She asked softly.

    Seth blinked back a few tears and cleared his throat. “Yeah… she’s just… staring at the wall. Holding onto Dad’s stuff.”

    Sue Clearwater had the opposite reaction from her children, which was understandable. She barely ate, didn’t speak, and was locked in her room. At night, they both could hear her soft sobs. The only time they saw her, was when she stepped out to use the bathroom or grab a plate of food is she felt like eating. But the sight was unnerving. It was like witnessing a ghost float through a haunted house. No one has entered the living room, the sight of the death of Harry Clearwater being a permanent memory. 

    Leah kissed his temple, craning her neck to do so. “Just give her some time. We all need it…”

    For a brief second, Leah found themselves lucky. Her and Seth had the biggest distraction the world could provide. Intense grief didn’t strike them down like it did Sue. They were too busy hunting vampires and worrying about growing claws. 

    But the second quickly passed, when she stood in front of Sam and Emily’s house.    

    Things were different. Variety of flowers were planted, surrounding the front porch. The smell of muffins poured from the inside, and happy chatter followed. A porch swing was installed, no doubt by either Sam or Billy’s son. The morning sun shone on the new red paint, and Leah gagged. She hated the color red.

    Seth stood by her, and locked her hand with his. 

    “We still don’t have to…” He whispered.

    She shook her head, squeezing his hand. “Nah… we do. Not much of a choice these days.” 

    Although every step felt like walking on needles while barefoot, she made it through the front door, which led straight into the kitchen and dining room. And with her luck, everyone was seated in the same room. She almost rolled her eyes when the room went deathly silence, as if the devil walked in, instead.

    Seth took a seat next to Quil, someone he quickly bonded with since the Ateara boy phased days after they did. Leah often feared that Quil might taint Seth, but she trusted Seth’s judgement… sort of.

    Leah took residence in the far corner, keeping her eyes trained on the small cracks on the floor, ignoring constant glances thrown her way, especially Sam’s. She caught a glimpse of Emily, behind the kitchen counter. She had her back turned, but the feeling of anxiousness rolled off her back so obviously. 

    Coward, Leah wanted to say.

    With a cleared throat and the clap of his hands, Sam started the meeting. 

    “Okay, now that we are all here, time to go over patrols.” He pulled out a notebook, while twirling a pencil in his hand. “I know it will take some time to adjust to our three new pack members, but now it will be easier to switch out. Which means more sleep and attending school.

    “Now that Bella’s back, Victoria has been running around, again. More hikers are being killed, and sooner or later, the police won’t be able to claim it as an animal attack any longer.”

    Paul snorted. “Yeah, no shit. Who bought that anyway? I have never seen an animal that drains someone's blood from the neck before, have y’all?”

    Quil tilted his head. “He has a point.”

    Sam huffed. “The point is that we need to cover more ground to prevent the attacks, probably even scare off a few hikers to keep them out of the woods.”

    “Yeah that would be perfect,” Embry snickered. “Now everyone will be out hunting our ass ‘cause they’re convinced wolves took over the land.”

    Jacob joined in. “I can see the headlines now.”

    “Would everyone shut up!” It wasn’t an Alpha command, but the laughing and snickering ceased. “That being said, I want to announce the updated ranks and patrols.”

    His eyes glancing at each member, lingering on Leah the most. He remained his focus on his notebook when he received a mean scowl in return. 

    “Jared remains Beta, Jacob is still Delta, and Paul is still the Lead Warrior.” Sam flipped a page in his notebook p. “Now for the changes…. Embry and Quil are now in the Warrior rank, while Leah and Seth are Omegas.” Quil and Embry cheered quietly, slapping hands with each other, while Paul sent a taunting grin towards Leah.

    “Any questions?”

    Nobody else but Leah raised their hand. Everyone’s shock was humorous but she kept the smile to herself. Even Sam had trouble keeping his shock and uncomfortableness under control.

    “Yes, I have one. What the hell does these ranks even mean?” Leah tilted her head, leaning on the wall. “Alpha is crystal clear, but the fuck is Omega?”

    Jared spoke instead, after swallowing the rest of his muffin. “Beta and Delta basically take over when the Alpha can’t or is busy. The Lead Warrior is always in front of the front line of a fight, and is in charge of the Warriors that backs him up. And…. well, the Omegas don’t do anything. Like the backup backup.”

    Sam interjected. “You and Seth will stay home, most of the time. Except for patrols.”

    Something didn’t stir well with this information. Of course the ranks were ridiculous, but it was the fact that Leah was being treated like… a girl? Not that there was nothing wrong with the feminine race, but everyone was looking at her as if she was made of glass that was too close to the edge. Weak. 

    Leah gritted her teeth, a slight tremble in her hands. “Okay, so Seth is too young, understandable. But why the fuck am I being held back?”

    Sam pinched the bridge of his nose, looking as if he expected this. Well, he should’ve! As much as Leah hated to admit it, Sam knew her more than anyone and he should’ve known Leah won’t back down from anything, not even life threatening circumstances. 

    “You’re too new, Lee—”

    “ Don’t call me that. ” 

    The tension was amazingly thick, and the silence was suffocating. Her temperature rose at the nickname he used to call her, especially when she laid in his arms. She stopped the memories from flooding in before she phased in this dining room. Ripping her clothes was the last thing she wanted, right now.

    After a few shuddering breaths, Leah sunk back into the corner, wishing the shadows would swallow her whole. 

    “Whatever,” She deflated, but deep down everyone knew this wasn’t the last of it.

    Emily, who was absolutely long forgotten, rummaged in the kitchen, trying to remain invisible as possible. But Leah saw a glimpse of the long scars that took permanent residence on the right side of her face and down her neck. On the surface, Leah wanted to laugh and tease, but underneath her many layers, she wanted to hug her and bury themselves in pints of Icecream.

    But that was forbidden in Leah’s mind. She won’t allow things to be the same, not even if it pains them both. 

    Sam continued rambling when Leah tuned back in. “.... the twelve am to six am will go to me and Paul. Six am through twelve pm will be Jared and Seth—”

    With a small voice, Seth interrupted with a small blush on his cheekbones. “What—What about school?”

    Sam gave him a warm smile. “Freshman classes are fairly easy, you won’t miss much in the mornings.”

    Quil smacked his shoulder with reassurance. “I’ll help you if you need it.”

    Embry laughed more loudly than necessary. “Yeah, if you wanna fail! I’ll help you, Seth.”

    Quil flipped him the bird with the roll of the eyes, while Seth laughed quietly with them. Leah grinned towards her brother, happy that he had a natural talent of making friends quickly. His big sister didn’t have that advantage. Sometimes she preferred it that way.

    Sam continued, giving the three boys a warning glare. “Embry and Quil from twelve pm to six.” The two boys fist bumped each other. “Then that leaves Jacob and Leah from six pm to twelve.” 

    Jacob quietly groaned, slumping in chair. “Well, fuck me.”

    “I’m not looking forward to spending six hours with someone who’s in love with a leech lover, either.” Leah snapped.

    A tremble went down Jacob’s spine, as he stood abruptly, making the chair fly backwards. Eyes followed him, wary of his next move. Sam’s mouth was twitching to use his Alpha command. 

    Leah watched him approach her with fierce eyes that stabbed through every vulnerability. Loose hairs that fell from his messy hair shaped his face, brushing against his sharp jawline and still childlike cheeks. He towered over her, almost a foot taller, and it almost shook her off balance. But she stood her ground, stepping away from her corner with her chin held up high. A part of her wanted him to hit her, shove her, anything. They both had the same supernatural strength and she needed someone to take her anger out on. 

    Instead of a fight, Jacob collided his shoulder into hers and headed straight for the door, while seething, “ Don’t be late. ”

Chapter Text

Chapter 4

Peeping Tom

    Bella,

I don’t know why you’re making Charlie carry notes to Billy like we’re in second grade —

 if I wanted to talk to you I would answer the

You made the choice here, okay? You can’t have it both ways when

What part of ‘mortal enemies’ is too complicated for you to

Look, I know I’m being a jerk, but there’s just no way around

We can’t be friends when you’re spending all your time with a bunch of

It just makes it worse when I think about you too much, so don’t write anymore

Yeah, I miss you, too. A lot. Doesn’t change anything. Sorry.

    After breaking five pens, his fingers were tainted by black ink, matching his note to Bella. Of course, the entire thing was child’s play and he would rather bury himself underneath his bedsheets. But this note was the only way to stop Bella from constantly ringing the house phone. He was moments away from ripping it out of the wall last time. 

    Jacob folded the note, and entered the living room. Charlie Swan and his dad was gathered around the tv, catching up on baseball     highlights. 

    Charlie turned his head, able to hear Jacob’s surprisingly light footsteps. His bushy eyebrows shot up looking at the crinkled note in the young boy’s hands. 

    “Y’know, you could just call her?” Charlie cringed at the whole ordeal.

    Jacob just shook his head, handing him the piece of paper. Hearing Bella’s voice was easier said than done, more harm towards his already bruised heart. 

    Trust me. 

    He almost growled in Charlie’s presence as the words haunted his mind once again. He trotted back in his room, with an exaggerated slam of the door, earning a scolding from Billy from afar. 

    When Bella first came to his garage, her cheeks were hollow, eyes heavy as if she was holding the weight of the world underneath them. Too skinny, and more pale than she has been. Edward Cullen killed a part of her, and she ran right back to him. No hesitation. Not one single stagger in her step as she hopped on a plane to Italy. Granted, Edward was going to kill himself, but there had to be other options, and other ways for everything to be avoided. Soon enough, the young werewolf was going to run himself dry trying to figure out possibilities that will no longer be possible. 

    A howl rippled through the evening, disturbing the birds and Jacob’s nap. The clock struck six, and he had a date with Leah Clearwater.

    Jacob cringed. Okay, okay, it’s not a date. Most definitely not. But he was still dreading it. It wasn’t like Leah Clearwater was the worst person in the world, it’s her thought that was the enemy. Sharing a mind with someone who saw the world as hell on Earth wasn’t the best way to spend the day. Harsh emotions constantly rolled off of her and was thrown on     anyone else that was close enough. And now Jacob was her next victim. 

    Charlie was gone, and Jacob made sure his father was alright. He was thankful that they had a special bed and bath tub installed for Billy’s condition, knowing he could leave him for hours to patrol. Although he still felt guilty. 

    “Dad, I’m gone!” 

    Billy shouted from his room, “Be safe!”

    Jacob grinned to himself, heading out the door with his shorts already unbuttoned. “Always.”

    Once he made it past the tree line, he tied his shorts around his ankle and allowed his internal heat to overwhelm him. The distant memory of his first phase was completely different to how things are now. The pain shot through him quickly, like ripping a bandaid off. There was less blood when it came to his claws and canine teeth. And recently, a surge of adrenaline crashes through him, on the verge of being euphoric and powerful. He couldn’t pinpoint where this source was coming from but he didn’t complain. More motivation to protect his people.

    Embry and Quil were waiting, in the middle of a deep conversation of celebrity crushes.

    I cannot believe you just said you prefer Kristen Stewart over Megan Fox. Through Embry’s eyes, Quil was squinting his eyes, or at least trying to.

    Don’t judge me. It’s not my fault that you lack taste.

    LACK TASTE? Quil scoffed. Megan Fox is the only one that can make a man eating demon look sexy as fuck! Hell, she can eat me ANY day!

    Jacob mentally rolled his eyes, while running towards them. That’s the last time we’ll ever watch Jennifer’s Body.

    Jake! Glad you can make it. Where’s your new partner in crime? Embry teased.

    Clearly late. Jacob grumbled. It was minutes after six, and Leah had not made an appearance. A part of him wishes she wouldn’t come, but the thought of him running patrol all by himself made him tired already. There’s no way she was going to make him pick up all the slack. Can y’all do me a big favor?

    Quil’s laugh echoed in their heads. Already ahead of you. But don’t take too long!

    While they resumed their conversation, Jacob rushed towards the Clearwater’s. The sun finally set, leaving the sky a faded blue, soon to be black. Like most houses on the reservation, the trees shielded the house, making it almost impossible to be seen from the street. Jacob phased and let his shorts hang on his waist. He followed the scent of lavender, leading him to a secondary window on the far end of the house.

    “Leah!” He semi-whispered, hoping Seth was awake so he could grab her instead. But it was more likely that they both were sleeping, considering everyone was trying their hardest to get more than eight hours of sleep. 

    He cupped his hands around his mouth. “Leah! Get yo’ ass down here!”

    Still no response. 

    Jacob sucked his teeth, and locked his eyes on the tree that was a foot away from her window. A smirk grew on his lips, as he leapt into the tree and landed on her extended window seal. He resembled Spiderman overlooking the city of Brooklyn, and he prayed that nobody can see him from here. 

    Looking through the window, he started to regret everything. Leah was wrapped wildly in her covers, only dressed in a tattered bra and cloth shorts that could be a substitution for panties. Her exposed skin was covered in a thin layer of sweat and her long strands of hair laid in different directions. A furious blush surfaced on his skin, while his eyes went wide. A ragged breath escaped him, and he immediately slapped his hand over his mouth. 

    Jacob felt like a fucking intruder. Like a creepy ass stalker that preys on innocent girls. He found himself wishing that he could’ve just sucked it up and did patrols by himself. But now he was barely hanging onto Leah Clearwater’s window sill, watching her sleep in such a vulnerable position. The whole thing made him feel sick and embarrassed, but also… intrigued. Very . His throat was dry and his heart was pounded against his rib cage. A surprisingly tempting thought crept into his mind and he couldn’t shake it off in time. The thought of laying right next to Leah, and his hands deep in her short shorts already took over his mind.

    His heart stopped completely when her eyes fluttered open. 

    “ What the fuck?! ”

    “Shit!” He lost his balance and plummeted to the ground. 

    Jacob never ran so fast in his life.

Chapter Text

Chapter 5

Meeting the Devil

    Leah’s hand gripped the doorknob, and realized how cold it was. As if no one turned it in weeks. In all truth, she was scared to reveal what was behind this door, and was even more afraid that she wouldn’t be able to do anything about it. She hasn't heard her mother’s voice in days, and even though she never showed it, it was driving her crazy. Seth was getting more anxious, barely making it out of the house without phasing. Sometimes, Leah wasn’t that far behind.

    She dropped her hand from the doorknob. “Mom?” She called, surprised at the crack in her voice.

    No response. “Uhm… Seth and I are about to g—go grocery shopping. Do you… do you want anything?” 

    Leah waited for even a mumble, but all she could hear was even breathing. She whipped away her stray tears. “I can grab your favorite icecream? Cookie dough!” She tried to sound enthusiastic but it began to mix in with her upcoming sob. 

    “Y’know, I—I still don’t know how you eat that stuff. But I guess… I guess we’re even since you hate Mint.” 

    She sniffled, as her body shook. “I’m sorry, Mama… I love you, okay? You know that, right?” 

    The house was still. Nothing to fill in the silence but Leah’s cries and pleas. There was nothing more heart wrenching than grief; the loss of a loved one, a bad breakup, or loss of identity. The weight grew stronger when Leah realized everything was her fault. She got upset that her father started to defend Sam messing with Emily, and then phasing right in front of him. The shock fucked with his heart and his death triggered Seth’s phasing. Not to mention that she wasn’t even good enough for spirits for Sam to imprint on her instead. Now her mother was bound to the darkness of her memories and bedroom, her little brother was fated to kill vampires and protect the tribe at the age of fourteen, and she was forced to reside in the mind of Sam’s mind. Hell on earth, indeed.

    But even more of a reason to not fall apart. She caused this, and it was up to her to put all the pieces back together. And she can’t do anything if she lets herself fade from reality. Instead, she stood up straight, held back her tears, and kept moving forward.

    Seth pushed the cart through the breakfast aisle, with a scowl. “I hate pushing the cart, you always take too long thinking about what to get.”

    Leah rolled her eyes, still choosing between two different brands of oatmeal. “Unless you want to go broke by not checking the price tags, I suggest you be a good little boy and push the damn cart.” She ended up choosing Quaker Oats. 

    Seth stuck out his tongue, but his expression instantly brightened when he realized his favorite cereal was on sale. “Leah! They got Cookie Crisp on sale for one fifty!”

    Leah tilted her head to the side with a thoughtful expression. “Fine, get two.”

    Seth cheered, grabbing the two large boxes. 

    Soon, Leah took over the cart, while Seth wandered into the gaming section on the other side of the store. Her upper lip was tucked between her teeth as she walked slowly into the icecream area. With haste, she grabbed a pint of cookie dough ice cream, along with mint ice cream. 

    When she closed the freezer door, a noticeable face came to view only a few feet away from her.

    “Are you fucking serious, Black? You’re stalking me at Walmart now?” Leah accused, her voice in a harsh whisper. 

    Jacob whipped around to meet her eyes, with his mouth agape. A blush spread around his ears, as he began anxiously searching the displays of ice cream. 

    “Hardly, Clearwater. I’m simply buying groceries for my home. Y’know, like everyone else in this store.” He sent her snarky grin, making her even more irritated.

    “Yeah, right. I should still call the police on you, you voyueristic asswipe.” Leah threw the pints of icecream in the cart, moving towards him.

    Jacob scoffed. “Trust me, there was nothing special for me to see.”

    She almost growled, but didn’t let the comment get under skin. “ Sure , because you just happened to show up at my window to make sure the bogeyman didn’t come eating my toes. Tell me, how long were you actually there, hmm? What?” She balled up her fist and flung her wrist in an up and down motion. “Were you just jerking off in the corner somewhere? You’re truly sick, Black!”

    Jacob’s jaw dropped, his face burned, as he grabbed her hand, while hoping nobody was eavesdropping. “ Stop it! God , you’re disgusting.”

    Leah smirked, pushing her cart next to his. “Says the guy who was a literal peeping tom.”

    They both turned into another aisle, filled with condiments and seasoning. “It happened a week ago, can we just drop it?”

    “Maybe I will, maybe I won’t. It depends on how I feel.” She teased, earning a glare from him. 

    Jacob hummed, grabbed garlic powder from the shelf. “Y’know, you’re starting to become a real pain in my ass.”

    Leah glanaced below as he had his back turned away from her. “Not such a bad thing, I suppose. You have a nice ass.”

    He whipped around with his lips pressed into a thin line. Leah burst into laughter at the sight of his face turning red, even underneath his dark complexion. She tried to muffle her laugh, as a few strangers began to turn their heads. 

    “Ha ha ha, now you don’t see me saying that…” He stammered. “That—That you… uhmm..”

    His eyes traveled to the beginning hem of her tank top, which had a sneak peak to her perky chest. He quickly reverted to the paprika seasoning that seemed more interesting than anything else. Suddenly this entire store seemed a little bit too small and it’s harder to breathe. Being attracted to Leah Clearwater was suffocating, in the most tempting way.

    “Awwh, Jake, do I make you uncomfortable.” Leah teased, unaware of what he was blushing at the very moment. 

    He avoided the question, throwing more condiments into the cart. “Where’s Seth?”

    Leah rolled her eyes, knowing Seth is probably having a field day in the gaming isle. She thought of different ways to tell him ‘no’. “On the other side of the store. Want to help me go fetch him?”

    Jacob stifled out a small laugh. “Fetch? Really bad wolf joke.” 

    Leah lips twitched into a smile, “Shut up, Black.”

    As they made it to the other side of the store, surrounded by merchandise from fish hooks to tennis shoes. Seth was gawking over the new Halo game, and Jacob was no help because his eyes were bug eyed as well. Leah left the two and started searching through her mental grocery list. Ever since she phased, she had less trouble with memory. It was an advantage but also a disadvantage. She wishes she could forget some things…

    She stopped abruptly, almost passing a shelf crowded with feminine products. Different varieties of tampons and pads and pregnancy tests. Her eyebrows drew together, and wondered if she had enough tampons at home. 

    Then it hit her.

    Her last period was two weeks before her father died. It’s been exactly six weeks and three days since then. She was late. As disappointing as it was, she haven’t had sex since Sam broke up with her, so pregnancy wasnt a factor. So what else? What could’ve made her late?

    Leah swore sharply under her breath. Once she phased, she no longer felt any symptoms of her menstrual. No cramps, no sore titties, nothing . Becoming a wolf took her periods away. Of course, anyone else would be jumping for joy. But this was a part of her womanhood. Even though she only thought about children when she met Sam, but now the offer could be off the table completely.

    Something else that was taken from her.

    She felt her bones start to vibrate underneath her skin, begging to snap and phase. 

    Too many people…. too many people….

    In the next second, a warm hand was placed on her shoulder. Leah whipped around with a primal sound escaping her throat. Jacob pulled her closer, trying to minimize the sound.

    “Leah...Leah! What’s wrong? You can’t phase here. Not yet.” Jacob lowered his voice to only a volume for the supernatural to hear.

    Leah didn’t respond, and just buried her face into his bicep, trying to focus on keeping herself under control. Her mind went into a frenzy trying to pinpoint something to calm her down. The eerie silence behind her mother’s bedroom didn’t help, so she buried that thought quickly. But then a comforting scent filled her nose, an overwhelming smell of pine trees and fresh raindrops. Her heart tumbled over multiple beats when she realized it was Jacob’s scent that was calming her. She felt his arms tighten around her, trying to conceal her slight shaking. To a stranger, they resembled an embracing couple, and the simple thought made her cheeks grow hot.

    With a cleared throat, Leah broke from his embrace, no longer on the verge of phasing. She could feel his wary eyes wander over her, probably doubting that she was fully alright.

    She managed to choke out a thank you and went to find Seth.

    The evening sun hung over the Clearwater’s house and Leah was dressed in a cloth sundress that fit loose on her body. Since her first phase, clothes have been limited. Due to unpredictable phasing, wearing anything snug or tight was basically forbidden and a lot of her clothes have been shredded. Shoes were scarce as well. Most of the time, barefoot was the way to go because nobody had enough time nor money to keep buying more shoes. Her hair brushed against her back in a loose ponytail at the nape of her neck. Flyaway hairs brushed against her forehead and jawline, and she didn’t bother fixing the frizzy mess. Hair was hard to maintain when speeding through the woods at eighty miles per hour. 

    She waited for Embry’s and Quil’s howl to signal that their shift was over. But instead a figure emerged from afar, and she groaned at the sight.

    “Y’know this is kind of getting a little bit annoying.”

    Jacob rolled his eyes. “I’m just making sure you actually come on time.” 

    “Hoping that I was butt ass naked this time?” Leah grinned. “Sorry to disappoint.”

    Jacob sat next to her, oddly silent. Almost everyone knew how talkative Billy Black’s son can be. There was no such thing as awkward silence when it came to Jake. He could talk about the reproductive system of turtles then switch the topic to astrology. It was weird, but entertaining.

    So, it was strange that he struggled to find any words to say.

    Leah nudged his side. “What’s up?” 

    Jacob looked at from the side, then scoffed. “Trust me, you don’t want to know.”

    “I wouldn’t have asked if I didn’t want to know. What is it? Finally reaching puberty? Confused about your body?”

    Jacob shook his head, forcing himself to not laugh. “You’re impossible, Clearwater.”

    Leah shrugged. “Being possible is a little boring. Too easy.”

    The heavy sigh he let out made him look older than he actually was. The bags underneath his eyes were turning dark, and a frown pulled at his lips. It was such a huge contrast from when six months ago he showed up at her front porch with the brightest smile and kept her laughing while he fixed the back door. Now, she was facing a boy that was too young for the world to lay on his shoulders. 

    “She left.” Jacob blurted. “Again.”

    “Who?”

    He let out another sigh, shifting his weight on the porch step. “Bella. She left with that bloodsuck a few days ago to Florida.”

    Leah wished she hadn’t asked. The last thing she needed to hear is about that pale faced leech lover. Honestly, Jacob’s pining was ridiculous in every sense. If it was Leah, she would’ve dropped anyone who was in love with a vampire. It wasn’t natural and they are the reason why her life is destined to be a spirit warrior in the first place.  Not to mention, Jacob was bound to imprint sooner or later, just like Jared and… Sam.

    She didn't notice her fist clenching until she faintly smelled the metallic blood. She wiped it off on the end of her dress, directing her attention to Jacob, who fell into odd silence, again.

    “So what? You  jealous or somethin’?” Her words were sharper than intended, but he didn’t flinch.

    “What if he changes her?” His voice barely a whisper. “What if the next time I hear from her is the invitation for her funeral?”

    Leah’s jaw clenched, watching his face go incredibly soft. A new found anger strewed inside of her, and it was all directed to Bella. Jacob had more things to worry about than some girl that plays with his heart. He deserved more.

    “Fuck, Bella.” 

    Jacob sucked his teeth. “I knew you wouldn’t get it.”

    Leah shook her head, sitting up more straight. “No, no. I get it. You’re afraid.”

    He turned to her, searching for sarcasm or an incoming joke. But there was nothing but concern that could easily be mistaken for anger. 

    “Bella’s just a little girl, she’s stupid and childish. Point blank. If she wants to be changed into a bloodsucking demon for the rest of enternity, then let her. She’ll learn the hard way, and by the time she does, it’ll be too late.”

    Jacob sat up straight, turning his body fully towards her, a new found determination on his face. “What if I could prevent that tho? Show her that she has a choice. That she doesn’t have to die in order to live.”

    Leah began to shake her head. “Jake—”

    “I have to try, right?” His voice wavered, like someone on the brink of desperation. It was pathetically devastating.

    For the first time in a while, Leah swallowed down her own opinions, truly afraid to break Jacob’s hopes like Bella did to him. Maybe he needed to figure things out the hard way, too.

    Then the howls started. 

    But these were normal signals, they held urgency that made the hairs stand up on their necks. Without another word, they took off through the woods, shredding their clothes in the process. The pack mind was overlapping but all focused on one thing. The sickeningly sweet stench was suddenly spread through the area, and it burned the fuck out of Leah’s nose.

    Vampire. 

    Sam’s voice washed over everyone. Remember to focus and know your job! 

    Everyone confirmed and followed the scent. Then Sam noticed Leah. 

    Leah, no. Go back home to Seth, you’re not ready, yet.

    Without hesitation, Leah snapped. Fuck no! I can handle this, and plus I’m faster!

    It was true, after all. Leah was more lean than the others, allowing her to move swiftly through the air and around the trees. She had a much higher chance of catching this vamp than the others.

    Leah—

    She cut off his train of thought, knowing what he was planning to do. Sam, I swear to the spirits if you use that damn Alpha command on me. Let me do this!

    Paul groaned internally. We don't have time for this bitch fest, right now! Sam if she wants to get herself killed, then let her!

    Jacob snarled from the side of her. Not helping, Paul.

    Sam let it go, choosing his battles. Fine, stay out of the way. 

    The way he said it made Leah’s blood boil. It was like he was diminishing her as if she was a child that needed scolding. But she’ll prove him wrong. 

    The pack stormed through the forest, with a one track mind to kill. If Leah wasn’t focused, then it would’ve scared her. It was a like switch that’s been flipped simultaneously, every move mechanical overtaken by primal energy and motives. Even if all the animosity is towards the leech. How far could they go without sacrificing their humanity?

    They weren’t the only ones trying to catch Victoria. The Cullens on the other side of the treaty line was running along the edge of the ravine, above the stream of water between them. Jacob snapped his jaws towards them before focusing back on the red head.

    Leah found herself becoming confused. They all smelled the same, and burned her nose the same, too. But as long as she focused on the flame of the leech, it should be easy. The red head was switching sides of the ravines, purposely trying to fuck with them. Leah went to her full speed, passing the pack and only Jacob could manage to keep up with her. Ignoring everyone completely, she studied the bloodsuckers’ movements. She was almost impossible to catch on land, so it would be easier in midair….

    A Cullen screamed, “She’s getting away!”

    Then the red head leapt to their side of the ravine, and so did Leah.

    LEAH WAIT!

    “EMMETT, DONT!”

    While Victoria jumped, so did another Cullen. Their scent mingled together, and Leah couldn’t pinpoint which one was which. She ended up almost snapping the big one’s head clean off, if they didn’t collide with each other, falling into the stream. 

    The impact was horrible and snapped her shoulder out of place. Victoria was long gone, and the bigger vampire stood across from her with his eyes glowing viciously golden. His teeth bared, staring down with a mission to kill.

    Leah scrambled to her paws, growling towards the vampire, anticipating a fight. But she was staggering. It didn’t hit her until now that she’s never faced a vampire before. If she was ever to face the devil, this would be her greeting.

    Before the big one could launch towards her, a large figure jumped in front of her and roared ferociously, silencing the entire forest. Birds awoke from their slumber in the trees, flying across the night sky. Even the pack mind went eerie quiet. And it took a moment to realize that it was Jacob guarding her. 

    After a few rapid heart beats, the leader of the coven spoke with a surprisingly calm voice. “We deeply apologize, we didn’t know the pack was also in the search for Victoria.”

    Sam hurriedly went behind a tree to phase and pull on shorts in order to communicate better. “We weren’t aware of you, as well. We got it from here, though.” His tone was firm.

    The blonde vampire—that resembled a supermodel—was practically foaming at the mouth. She quickly stood by the big one’s side. She was clearly his mate.

    “Yeah, right. As if you and your pack of mutts know what you’re doing! You can’t even keep your bitch on a leash.”

    Both Jacob and Leah snarled towards the couple, sharing the same thoughts. 

    Who the fuck do think they are?

    Let’s kill them! I’ll show them a fucking bitch!

    Sam held out his hand, silencing the pack’s snarls and growls. The vampire leader continued, while sending a glare to the blonde one.

    “Maybe we could come to a compromise, to work together? It would be much easier to catch Victoria if… perhaps we were allowed behind treaty lines—”

    “Forget it.” Sam snapped, and Leah almost hated to admit that she finally agreed with him. Fuck the Cullens and their help. They are a pack of eight wolves, one vampire was not a problem. “Let’s go!”

    Everyone retreated back to their sides, and Leah was caught off guard by everyone’s thoughts.

    Way to fuck shit up, Leah. Now the leech got away! Paul accused.

    Everyone else agreed, even Embry who usually stayed quiet was sending hateful thoughts. Before she could defend herself, Sam phased back and he was fuming.

    What the hell WAS THAT?!

    Leah shook her head internally, It’s not my fault, Sam! They smelled the same and they both jumped—

    NO! You tried to fucking prove yourself and risked your life, no matter of fact, you risked the entire pack’s life! What if accidentally killed that Cullen? What then? It would’ve caused a WAR! 

    I didn’t mean to—

    Think about your family, Leah! Your mother? What would happen to her if her oldest child was dead because of idiotic motives?

    Leah whimpered a little at the harsh blow. Don’t throw that in my face!

    We ALL have someone to go back to after every fight, Leah! We have people we love and want to protect! We dont have fucking time to act out or chase our prides. THAT'S why we stick together and work together. So nobody dies! 

    Then flashes of memories surged through the pack mind, Sam’s being the strongest. There was no escaping it, as it was broadcasted for everyone to witness. Emily was wrapped in his Sam’s, barely dressed, and sharing sweet kisses and everlasting smiles. A sharp pain trembled through Leah’s body, and she almost collapsed. A wave of pain washed over the entire pack, and a heart wrenching howl pierced above the trees.

    SCREW YOU.

      She ran, ignoring the throbbing pain of her dislocated shoulder. Once she was out of sight and out of mind, a sob ripped from her throat, wrapping her arms around her body that seemed more fragile than before. She curled into a ball, resting her soaked face in the wet grass, listening to the soft whispers of nature. 

    It was a mind numbing thing, to lay in your sorrows that you couldn’t escape from. And for the first time, Leah never felt so alone.

Chapter Text

Chapter 6

High School Blues

    Today was the end of Spring Break and Seth Clearwater practically had to drag himself out of bed. His big sister was usually the person to shake him out of bed, or dump a cold cup of water on his face. But there is a missing heart beat in the Clearwater household. Meaning, Leah didn’t return from last night’s werewolf adventure. Seth felt every single nerve in his body aching to join his pack brothers and chase down the red head, but the alpha order from Sam kept him rooted. He should’ve known that Leah wouldn’t be as easy. 

    Seth hesitated to enter her bedroom, faintly remembering the last time he went in her room without permission. He cringed as he still could feel smack on the back of his head. He gathered enough courage and grabbed a dress that Leah usually wore these days. 

    “Would she need a bra?” He mumbled to himself, automatically disgusted by the thought of touching her underwear. He settled on just the dress and headed downstairs.

    Before Seth reached the front door, he was already in shock by the abrupt presence of his mother, roaming in the kitchen. It took great effort to not start jumping up and down and thanking the spirits.

    “Mom! You’re… here?” 

    Sue shut the fridge and managed a small smile. Her eyes never leave the carton of milk in her shaky grip. Being around her was almost suffocating, and Seth hated to admit that. The grief was heavy, falling off of her and landing on the next person. But this morning, things were different. Her back was straighter, and her eyes were daring. The resemblance between Sue and her daughter was never more uncanny. 

    “You’re...You’re not in school?” Her voice was raspy. She moved carefully as she poured milk into her cereal bowl. It was as if every move she had was thought out and precise, so she wouldn’t fall apart. 

    Seth scratched the back of his, trying to find a way to explain Leah’s predicament. Saying that the pack went on a dangerous vampire chase and Leah hasn't returned from it was not going to settle right. 

    “Uh… Leah crashed in the woods… so I’m just gonna bring her some clothes. I’ll go to school right after, I promise.” Seth grinned, inching closer to the front door.

    Sue frowned, putting the milk back. “You’re lying, Seth.”

    He froze with one hand on the doorknob, and mentally cursed at himself. Seconds past as he hoped her mind didn't automatically go sour. Seth was confident in his big sister and she’s able to handle herself when it comes down to it. He was sure that she was safe. 

    Sue let out a long breath, sitting down at the countertop. She watched the cereal swirl in the milk, not able to bring herself to eat anything, yet. 

    “Promise me you both will be safe?”

    Seth nodded. “Of course.” He hesitated, bouncing on his heels. “Are… are you okay?”

    The fourteen year old shapeshifter was scared of many things, but what scared him the most was losing his mother, too. He barely made it out unscathed when he watched his father die, but he wouldn't be able to watch his mother slowly wither away. 

    Sue turned to him, finally meeting his eyes. The heartbreak beneath her lashes was shattering, but a gleam of hope rested in her upcoming tears as her lips stretched into a small grin. 

    “No, I’m not. But I will be.”

    After thirty minutes of searching for his sister, Seth decided to leave a post-it note on her sundress on the edge of the tree line. 

    You can thank me later :)

                         —your favorite brother

    Seth walked into the school, and felt a familiar anxiety thumped at his heart. His hands clutched on his book bag strapped, as he controlled his breathing. The last thing anything needed was him to burst out of his skin because of social anxiety. 

    However, this day didn’t feel the same. Student he used to pass in the hallways looked up to him. Literally. He grew a half a foot from the last time he was in school, and his arms were too big for his old clothes. Girls that didn’t know that he existed winked at him , and guys that used to knock him into lockers cleared a path to him. It was exhilarating but also frightening. Did he honestly change that much? For people to fear him and love him that quick? 

    Before he could dwell on it, an arm slung over shoulders, almost taking him off balance.

    “Good to be back, huh?” Jake grinned, and took a huge whiff of the air. “ Yup! Got to love the smell of cheap perfume and mystery lunch meat.” 

    Seth laughed, nudging him off of him. “I’m guessing last night went well.” Then leaned close, dropping his voice into a whisper that they can only hear. “What happened to the red head?”

    Jacob rolled his eyes. “Little leech got away, again. ”

    “Yeah, no thanks to your sister. No offense, Seth.” Quil appeared with Embry. With four of them walking side by side down the hallways, it attracted more attention than needed. Whispers like ‘ looks like Sam’s gang got a new member’ rang in his ear, and it caused a tremble to go down his muscles. He ignored them, knowing they were trapped in blissful ignorance.

    Seth furrowed his eyebrows. “What did she do?”

    Embry sucked his teeth. “She went all gung ho and accidentally attacked a Cullen. Then the red bloodsucker got away.”

    Jacob was on the verge of seething at the memory. “That tick had no fucking right trying to attack Leah. She should’ve bit his head off and his mate.”

    Seth squinted his eyes towards Jake, wondering why the hell was he defending Leah so quickly. Although, it was reassuring that someone was on her side.

    Quil laughed a bit too loudly, making heads turn. “Oh yeah! Jake damn near declared war on those blood—”

    Embry smacked him hard on the neck, spewing out quiet curses. “Would you like to expose the tribal secrets a little bit louder, dumbass?”

    Jake shook his head at the two and ruffled Seth’s hair. “Don’t worry ‘bout your sister. She’s strong…” His mind drifting as a thoughtful expression took place.

    Seth nodded, “Yeah, I know.”

    Those extra hours of sleep was doing him justice as he managed to stay awake in his history class. The teacher held a monotonous voice, and the lessons were almost the same every day. And the lectures were a form of cruel and unusual punishment in Seth’s eyes.

    He was caught in a daydream when he jumped abruptly as something sharp was thrown at the back of his neck. He rubbed at the sore spot, as he looked behind him. Two boys snickered into their sleeves two behind him. They were both juniors, and Seth wondered why they were even taking a freshman history class in the first place! He took a deep breath and turned back around. 

    Seth tried to focus on the lecture about the Boston Tea Party but freshly sharpened pencils were continuously jabbing their way to the back of his neck. The smell of blood making its way to broken skin made his fingers twitch and nose flare. The snickering grew louder, while his other classmate grew wary looking between the two jerks and Seth. Some others laughed and rolled their eyes at the childish antics. On any other day, or circumstances, ignoring shit like this would be simple and easy. But wolf blood ran threw his veins, and his sister was currently missing, and his father just fucking died. 

    He was out of his seat before he even realized it. And in that same second, he was towering over the two boys, eyeing the main one that kept throwing the pencils. 

    “The fuck is your problem?”

    The teacher stopped his lecture, while the class were eager for a fight. “Mr. Clearwater, please take a seat!”

    His boring voice was pushed away as Seth’s body vibrated with anger. His wolf was begging to be let out. He has to find a way to release just a bit of tension without actually killing everyone in this class.

    The boy with spiked hair, and chains on his belt loop stood up with a cocky smirk on his face. His height didn’t match Seth’s, not even close. His mask didn’t falter, but Seth could taste his fear.

    “ I don’t have a problem. But you know who does? That sexy ass sister of yours. How’s she doing anyway? Was she always a bitch or does she just need to get laid?” 

    Without thought, Seth’s fist drew back and collided with the boy’s nose. The sound of bone breaking echoed through the classroom, and blood tainted his knuckles. 

    A growled escaped his lips as he charged out of the classroom, ignoring the yells that trailed behind him.

    Seth sat outside the principal’s office with the most guilty expression. He watched the bruises on his knuckles fade while his leg bounced anxiously. His thoughts were scrambled but his main focus was on his mom. This was the last thing she needed to hear, and kept praying to the spirits that Sue is asleep, or maybe even the phone is broken. Lately, the Clearwater siblings were always breaking stuff around the house due to their new found strength. 

    “Well, damn. The moon must be blue if Seth Clearwater was sent to the principal’s office.” Jacob chuckled, sitting next him.

    Seth tried to grin, but instead blew out a puff of air. “I fucked up.”

    Jacob raised his eyebrows. “Leah and Sue are gonna kill us all knowing we gave you a new vocabulary.”

    “ I could’ve killed that guy. I was so close to phasing, and the punch alone was lethal! I broke his nose, Jake! Blood was everywhere… and he was so afraid of me. A lot of people were today.” His eyes stung as he sniffed. He wondered if he was becoming a monster instead of a protector. 

    Jake laid a hand on his shoulder. “But you didn’t phase. And that’s some powerful shit, Seth. You’ve been a werewolf for a few weeks, and you already have that much control? Damn, you’re almost better than me.” He joked with a wink.

    Seth smiled, nudging Jake in his side. Jacob looked down at the young werewolf with a soft smile as he squeezed his shoulder. “You stood up for yourself today. I’m proud of you, Seth.”

    Seth looked up to meet his gentle stare. In that moment, it was as if Harry Clearwater was sitting next to him instead, and it filled his heart with warmth. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 7

Imprint

    Jacob Black never had any brothers, only his older twin sisters. His father taught him everything that he could; fishing, how to change the tires, and how to protect the family. His mother, Sarah Black, taught him how to cook, carve wood, and sow. And as his hair grew longer, his sisters took the liberty to show him how to braid and do a proper ponytail. It was very traditional living, and it was almost like a perfect family sitcom show.

    But things changed when a car swerved on a rainy night. They buried Sarah a week after, and Billy was bound to a wheelchair. When Rebecca and Rachel graduated high school and took the first chance to get out of La Push, leaving the ghost of their mother behind. Thirteen year old, Jacob Black took the burdens in stride and took care of his father, and pushed the memory of his mother aside. He cooked, he fished, carved, sowed, and even did his own hair. He protected his family even when nobody protected him.

    And that’s why when Jacob saw the fourteen year old’s bloody knuckles and teary eyes, he couldn’t help but to let his heart drop at the remembrance of his younger self. He was going to make sure Seth didn’t have to carry any burdens alone. 

    “ Seth Calian Clearwater! ” 

    Both of their heads snapped to the loud booming voice. Leah’s mouth was pressed in a firm line, approaching the both of them. 

    “You are so lucky I answered instead of Mom! Are you trying to burst into fur in a fucking school ? What the hell are you fighting for anyway?”

    Jacob smirked, leaning back in the chair with his arms crossed. “Leah, how pleasant it is to see you.”

    Leah sent him a glare, and he almost laughed. Her eyes were a bit doe eyed, and her lips poked out trying to maintain a hard expression. It was honestly adorable.

    Adorable. Leah Clearwater? Yeah, well, lions can be adorable too, doesn’t mean you should pet one. He thought.

    “Shove it, Black. Did you encourage this? Was this some bullshit ass payback from last night?” She accused, her shoulders slightly shaking.

    Jacob wondered if she was always this much on her toes. Always thinking if someone was plotting a sneak attack. It was almost unnerving to truly watch Leah as she scrutinized every situation before it even comes.

    Seth stood up before Jacob could retort. “Leah, it’s not like that. This guy was picking with me and… I uh… punched him.”

    Leah raised a brow. “Really? What happened?”

    Seth looked at Jacob before replying, probably hoping that he could cover for him. But Jacob was also curious about what the kid had to do to make Seth snap.

    He looked down at his knuckles that weren’t bruised anymore, and exhaled. “He was throwing some pencils at me and… then he talked about you.” Seth looked up at Leah, who was surprised.

    “Me? What about me?”

    Seth groaned, rolling his head back. “Please don’t make me say it!”

    Jacob chuckled. “It can’t be that bad, Seth.”

    His eyes went wide and shook his head. “It was! Trust me.”

    Leah shoved his shoulder, urging him to continue. Jacob muffled his laughter in his hand at the redness spreading in Seth’s face. It was truly a sight to see the two Clearwater siblings in action.

    “He… he called you… erm.. an objective adjective.” Jacob couldn’t contain his laugh, as he boldly cackled in the middle of the hallway. 

    “Dude, what? He… called her a what ?” Jacob could barely breathe.

    Leah couldn’t even hide her grin, as she stomped on Jacob’s foot making him wince. “Seth, talk like a normal person, please?”

    Seth whined, seemingly on the verge of a tantrum. “He said that you were sexy and he called you a bitch and said that you probably need to get laid. There! You happy now?”

    Jacob managed to choke out a laugh as Leah smacked his chest. She turned her attention back to Seth who resembled a ripe tomato. “Did you break something?”

    “His nose.” Seth mumbled, admiring the tiled floors.

    “Good. I taught you well.” 

    Seth beamed as Leah pulled him into a playful headlock, messing up his hair. A small bit of envy tugged at Jacob, wishing for that sibling bond he used to possess. But in a way, he didn’t get a second chance at that. His pack was his new found brothers… and sister.

    Seth was already waiting in Sue’s Volkswagen, as Jacob and Leath walked in a slow pace through the parking lot. School hours were still ticking and Jacob wasn’t planning to go back inside.

    “Skipping today? Wasn’t the whole point of the new patrol schedule was to keep you dumbasses in school?” Leah raised her brows.

    Jacob shrugged, stuffing his hands in his Jean pockets. “I have business to take care of. Bella’s back.”

    Leah didn’t hide her distaste, and Jacob didn’t miss her eye roll. “Look, I know you don’t like her. But I just have to check…”

    “That she’s alive?”

    With a sharp breath, Jacob nodded. “Yeah… but also I need to give her bloodsucker a little warning. The next time they cross our lands and attack one of us, they’re dead.”

    After a silent moment, Leah asked in a surprisingly small voice. “Are they still mad at me?”

    “Yeah…” He noticed the guilty frown, as she kicked small rocks on the way. “It’s not all your fault, by the way. I mean yeah, you should’ve worked with us instead, but you’re still new. You’re still learning, and those gasbags don’t realize it.”

    The corner of her lips turned upwards, making Jacob beam. “And besides, both of those leeches had it coming.”

    Leah gently nudged his side, and fully smiled. “Thanks, Jacob.”

    He nudged her back. “Anytime.”    

    Forks High School parking lot was filling up with pale faced students, all dragging their feet towards the building. There was a light drizzle that clung onto Jacob’s long braid, and a few flyaway strands stuck to his face as he drove his motorcycle into the busy parking lot. Students turned their heads at the loud motor, and gaped at the Quileute boy (hardly look like a boy, anyway). After parking, he leaned against the vehicle waiting for Cullen. 

    For a fracture of a second, he contemplates on going back and forgetting the entire thing. But his inner questions would gnaw at him more than they already have been. He needed to see Bella for himself; to look in her eyes and see chocolate brown and crimson red. Before he could decide, a scent pierced through his senses, making his entire body tense.

    She was here.

    Jacob turned around to see Cullen with a look of irritation and Bella walking at a fast pace in front of him. Students around the three grew aware of the tension that arose as soon as Jacob approached.

    His body slightly relaxed when a rapid heart beat thundered through his ears. Blood was rushing to Bella’s cheeks due to the slight cold, and her eyes were thankfully brown. Jacob almost smiled, but he remembered the situation at hand. 

    Edward scoffed beside her. “He’s checking if you’re still human.”

    Jacob stifled a growl. “I’m here to warn you.” He stepped a little closer. “If you’re kind come on our land again, and try to attack one of us…”

    “Wait, Jake, what are you talking about?” Her soft voice intercepted. Jacob cringed at himself for missing her this deeply, and tried to shove his anger towards her back to the front of his mind. But it was always so hard to mad at Bella, because she was always the one to bring him happiness.

    Jacob quirked a brow, realizing how clueless Bella was. “You didn’t tell her?”

    Edward stepped closer, hoping to intimidate him. “Drop it, Jacob. Leave. Now.”

    His threat bounced off Jacob like the raindrops. “What? You lied to get her out of town, too? Tell her. She has the right to know.” He looked down at Bella with a smirk. “The redhead wants her, right?”

    Her eyes went wide, and her heart beat went erratic. “Vic...Victoria?! She’s here?” She snapped towards Edward. “Alice’s vision! You knew!”

    Edward sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “It was to protect you.”

    “By lying to me.”

    Jacob kept an arrogant smile on his face, clearly pleased to witness a trouble in paradise. It was about time Bella stood up to Edward’s “protective” bullshit. But his wide smile dropped quickly when Bella turned to him.

    “And you, ” She started, still riding on irritation. “Why haven’t you called me back?”

    Oh, maybe because you fucking kiss me then left me. Jacob wanted to shout and scream about why Bella was making the worst choice in her life but all he could say was—

    “I had nothing to say.” 

    Before his hands started to shake, he trotted back to his motorcycle, prepared to leave before he ripped Edward’s head off for the hell of it. But stopping him from leaving was a body heat crashing into his back and a pair of small arms wrapping around his torso. 

    Jacob’s smile returned. “Hang on tight.”

    The two teenagers trailed side by side with the motorcycle between them. Bella furrowed her brows, knowing this was not the direction to his house. 

    “Why are we going to Sam and Emily’s house?” 

    “Need to check in with the boys.”

    Bella shifted awkwardly, almost tripping over her converse. “I don’t think… erm… the guys would like me that much. Y’know? Not anymore.”

    Jacob’s jaw flexed, almost spitting out the words, I don’t fucking blame them, 

    But instead he censored his words through gritted teeth.  “Maybe, maybe not.”

    Bella wasn’t much of an idiot, though. She still heard the force behind his words and sensed the hidden meaning. Her head hung low until they approached the house. As soon as they arrived, four shirtless boys rushed out of the house with relief on their faces, as if they were saved by the bell.

    “Bella you’re back!” Embry greeted.

    Bella gave him a smile in response, training her eyes anywhere but them.

    “Why is everyone here?” Jacob questioned. It was still morning during school hours, and somebody should be on patrol. 

    Jared answered while smacking one his chicken leg. “Sam gathered us after what happened with Seth, and for a small meeting about the red head.”

    Embry jumped in, giving Jake a knowing smile. “Y’know, I’m glad you’re back, Bella. Maybe now Jake will give us a break from his inner monologue…”

    “I wish Bella would call!” Paul mocked, slightly shoving him.

    Jared cackled. “I wish Bella wouldn’t call.”

    “Maybe I should call Bella,” Embry teased.

    Quil hopped in. “Maybe I should call Bella and hang up!”

    Paul continued, “Maybe I should call Bella, say something, and then hang up!”

    The four werewolves doubled in laughter, leaning on each other’s shoulders, and basically laughing in Jacob’s face. He smacked his teeth, but couldn’t fight his smile nor the blush in his cheeks. “Okay, you shut up now.” 

    The playful banter ceased once Leah walked out the house with a glower on her face. Her eyes locked on Bella, who withered underneath her gaze. She immediately turned to Jake for help.

    Jacob cleared his throat. “Bella, this is Leah Clearwater… Harry’s daughter.”

    Bella gave the female werewolf a sympathetic expression, probably forced. Anything to get out of the harsh gaze. “I’m so sorry about your father.”

    Leah scoffed, with her lips in a snarl. “Of course you are. Listen, if you’re here to torture Jacob some more, please feel free to leave.” Then she strode towards the tree line, immediately bursting into fur when she was engulfed by the shadows. An awkward silence trailed behind her, falling onto the group.

    Sam walked out the house with a somber Emily attached to his hip. Her face brightened when she spotted Bella. 

    “Bella! I was wondering when we were going to see your face around here.” She wrapped her arms around Bella’s frame, giving her a reassuring squeeze. 

    Jacob nodded towards Sam, acknowledging his Alpha’s presence. “All good?”

    “Yeah, no scent. The red head won’t slip through our fingers next time.”

    The boys hollered and cheered, running towards the woods, more than likely planning to cliff dive. 

    “How’s Seth?” Jacob asked, stepping away from Bella, out of earshot. It was bad enough for her to see Leah, she didn’t need to know there was another addition to the pack.

    Sam lowered his voice, as well. “He’s fine. Sue doesn’t know a thing about what happened today, either. God, this is why I wanted to keep them in the house as much as possible.”

    “They’ll both be fine. They still have a lot to adjust to.”

    Sam rested his finger under his chin, his eyes studying the grass. “It’ll just be easier if they stayed out of the way, maybe…” He was more talking to himself at this point. The turning wheels were practically visible, and Jacob already knew what the real issue was. 

    “Easier for them or for you?” Jacob blurted. A certain defense was in his tone, while his shoulders were squared. 

    Sam furrowed his brows, his arms crossing. “What are you implying?” 

    His Alpha’s tone overshadowed his own. It was like a thick blanket was trying to cover him, making not able to see what he wanted to see, or hear what he needed to hear. It was almost suffocating.

    “I’m… implying that maybe you think that if Leah stayed home, then you wouldn’t have to face what you fear.”

    Sam inched closer, standing to his full height, which matched Jacob’s. “And what the hell do I fear, Jacob?”

    The air was suddenly thick and it confused the hell out of Jacob. A tremble went down his back like rolls of thunder, and something was clawing inside of him urging to burst through his skin. A sudden need for power and control washed over him, and it was terrifying. 

    Pushing back everything back, his mouth desperate water and his lungs hungry for more air. “Forget it.”

    Jacob quickly turned his back on Sam, and urged Bella to follow him to his house.  Bella, oblivious to the tense atmosphere, followed without question. They walked in silence while Jacob tried to focus on anything else. The way the air smelled like fresh rain, and how the wind shifted through the woods from afar. Small creatures around him minded their business, climbing trees and gathering food. He heard their foreign conversations and noises. 

    It was truly peaceful, until—

    “So when did Leah join the pack?” 

    Jacob let out a huff of air, a hint of irritation creeping back into him. “A few weeks ago. Her and her little brother, Seth.” Shit! I wasn’t supposed to say that. He hoped that Bella won’t snitch to her bloodsuckers about their new gain in numbers.

    Her brows shot up, “Seth? Isn’t he like… twelve or something?” 

    Jacob found himself rolling his eyes, still pulling his bike along. He was relieved to see his garage in view. “No, fourteen. Still not any better, I suppose. But Sam keeps him in the house, although he wished Leah stayed home. I’m starting to agree with him.”

    It was Bella’s turn to roll her eyes. “Don’t be such a guy.”

    Jacob shook his head. “No, it’s not that she’s a girl or anything. That doesn’t matter. It’s just…”

    Shit. Shit. Shit. Dangerous territory. Imprinting was the last thing Jacob wanted to talk about right now. He would rather do his geometry homework that was piled up on his nightstand. 

    He sighed, deciding to just rip the bandaid off. “Leah and Sam used to be a… thing.” 

    “They… dated?! Wow, seeing Emily and Sam together… it just seems like there was nobody else before them.” 

    Jacob snorted, finally approaching the small garage that was his safe haven. “That’s because Sam imprinted on Emily.”

    “What’s ‘imprinted’?” Bella scrunched her face at the word, followed by a small giggle. But even her laugh couldn’t make Jacob smile, especially since they were dodging what they really needed to talk about. As if they were both trying not to set off hidden grenades. 

    Jacob didn’t answer right away, making an excuse to put away his motorcycle and finding some tools so he could install a new stereo for the rabbit. His hands were more fidgety than normal, and he refrained himself from pacing. 

    “Imprinting is… a wolf thing that is rare.” He looked up to her curious eyes, with caution in his choice of words. “It’s… Y’know like how some animals—like ducks—crack up their egg and imprint on the first thing they see?”

    Bella nodded, with a dubious smile. “Yes, Jake, I took zoology.” 

    He rolled his eyes, focusing on the stereo on his work table. “Well, that’s how it is for us. We sort of… imprint on someone. It could be anyone really. Almost like… love at first sight.” He paused, waiting for a reaction while his nerves went into a frenzy.

    Then she laughed. 

    Not a shy laugh most girls tend to do, but a loud cackle almost like Quil. Bella bashful,y slapped a hand I’ve her mouth, trying to quiet her fit of giggles, but it wasn’t working. She must’ve thought he was joking, but his face stayed slack and serious. 

    “Oh come on, Jake! You can’t believe that crap, right? Obviously Sam just had some intense crush or something.”

    Jacob exhaled loudly, dropping his screwdriver and began to clench the edge of the table. “This isn’t just some crush , Bella!” And with that outburst, Bella calmed down matching his serious expression. She cleared her throat while mumbling an apology. 

    He continued, searching through his memories of the pack mind. He thought of the way Sam looked at Emily and how he held her. It was a complete fairytale in Sam’s eyes. “When you see her… your entire life changes. Just like that. Everything that was important before no longer matters. She’s your first priority, and your purpose. She’s the gravity that holds you down.”

    Bella swallowed and shuffled uncomfortable in the garage. “You… you sound like you know the feeling.”

    Jacob only shrugged, fiddling with his screwdriver again. “Sort of. Pack mind, remember?”

    Bella tried to smile as she nodded her head. Then her face fell, and her brown eyes widened a tad. Jacob watched her skin go pale, as her movements froze. 

    “What? What is it?” He blurted, unable to contain his anxiety.

    She turned to me with a slightly terrified expression. Like she’s prepared to run out the door anytime now. “Have you…?”

    Jacob grimaced, shaking his head. “You would know if I had.”

    Bella let out a sigh as her shoulders fell. The corner of her lips turned upwards and she resumed shuffling around. Jake couldn’t tell if she was relieved or secretly jealous. Was she really that far up the bloodsucker’s ass that was willingly to forget everything that happened between them? Or was she selfishly willing to string him along on the side while she lay up with her leech? Either way, it fueled his anger.

    “What? Relieved that I didn’t imprint on you?” 

    Bella whipped towards him with shock. “N-no, well, yes. You have to admit, it’s pretty weird, Jake.”

    Jacob dropped his screwdriver, again, rubbing his face trying to erase even a small amount of his stress away. He suddenly felt older than he actually was, and he could still feel an intense weight on his shoulders. He desperately wished for time to take a fucking break and let him breathe. Just for a moment.

    “Alright, Bells. Let’s just stop the bullshit for one second. Are we really gonna forget what happened before you left for Italy?” 

    Bella blushed at the memory, and Jacob once again wondered if it was out of shame or shyness. He wished for the later. 

    “Jake… I know that it was confusing and—”

    “ Was ? No, it is confusing! You kissed me , Bells. Then you literally ditch me and now you're hugging up on Cullen!”

    Bella threw her hands up in the air dramatically. “The hell do you want me to say, Jacob? That I’m sorry I kissed you, ‘cause I can give you that if  that's what you want.”

    Jacib circled around from the table, standing in front of her. “I don't want your pitied apology. I want to… I need the truth!

    Her voice rose an octave higher. “What truth!?”

    “Did you kiss me because you love me, or did you kiss me because I was there?! ” 

    The garage fell into a thick silence. Only Jacob’s heavy pants filled the room, trying to calm down his shaking. Bella turned thoughtful, her heart still erratic from the yelling. her eyes couldn't meet his, as her mind went into deep calculation and remembrance. Jacob took a few steps back, waiting for her response. He worried that he was going to explode out his skin just by the pure torture of the itch of anxiety.

    Bella let out a shaky breath. “I don’t know.”

    Jake slumped. “Then why are you here?” His voice turned soft, almost on the verge of tears. 

    “I… I can’t lose you, Jake. Please , I just… everything is moving really fast, right now. I need some time. Please. ” Bella pleaded with glossy eyes, she inched closer to him and soon was wrapped in his arms, wiping a few tears on his shirt.

    “Trust me, Jake.” She whispered

Chapter Text

Hi! Zuko here! *ATLA reference*

So since I have enough reads I suppose, I would like to take this time to share my homemade playlist that I use to write this fanfic, and just a general playlist dedicated to the Blackwater (Leah and Jacob) ship.

Both characters give me RnB/Pop vibes so that’s what this playlist is mostly based off. So if that’s your thing, check it out!

I hope you like it :D

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1nnoW1FpLONRzD7ctgqEWu?si=NlbbX7khQeuORBnR95cgPg&dl_branch=1

Chapter Text

Chapter 8

Hate is Not Even the Word

    Waking up stark naked in the middle of the woods wasn’t ideal, but it was becoming Leah Clearwater’s normal. Twigs fell from her tangled hair, and dirt was layered on her like another coat of skin. She breathed in the morning dew as she clutched her chest, hiking through the fallen branches and crunchy leaves. Memories from last night’s vampire chase pricked through her mind like needles. Remembering how Sam held Emily so delicately was like being injected with poison. The way he kissed her… 

    Dying would’ve been so much easier. Anything would’ve been easier than to endure such pain. Sam never kissed her like that. Never looked at her with such adoration. It was as if Emily created the stars and the moon.

    I’m never enough… Leah’s eyes stung, and a silent sob emerged. Her knees almost buckled but she kept pushing. Falling apart is not an option. Not anymore. 

    Once she approached the tree line of her yard, she almost tripped on a pile of clothes. She crouched down, still holding onto her chest, and picked up the flimsy, sky blue sundress. Brushing off the small traces of dirt, the sticky note was more clear.

            You can thank me later :)

                    —your favorite brother

    Leah snorted. “Such a dork.”

    She slipped on the dress, and entered her home. She automatically noticed two bowls of cereal in the sink, meaning her mother ate today. A warm smile surfaced while she hoped to see her today. Before Leah could search the house, the shrill of the phone made her stop.

    “Clearwater’s.” She answered with a sigh.

    “Hello, is this Sue Clearwater, Seth’s mother?” The voice was too polite and professional for it to be a family friend.

    Leah shifted her weight onto her left leg. “Uhh… yeah? Why?”

    “I’m Principal Fernsby from Quileute High School. I’m sorry to inform you but your son has been suspended for three day for fighting.” 

    Leah didn’t know anything else could surprise her after the course of events this past month, but her little innocent brother getting into a fight? She’s heard it all now.

    “A… fight? Like an actual fist fight?” Maybe she heard it wrong because if Seth—a fucking werewolf—got into a fight, then that other kid is either dead or traumatized. There’s no way this principal would be saying this in such a calm manner.

    “Yes. I would have to ask you to please pick him up as soon as possible.”

    Leah cursed while running her hand through hair, taking out another twig. She cringed at the smell that radiated off of her. “Uhh… yeah, give me about twenty minutes.”

    “Will do, Mrs. Clearwater.” 

    She slammed the phone back into its receiver and sucked her teeth. “I’m going to kill him.”

    After scrubbing her skin and deeply washing her hair, Leah was storming into the high school, instantly hit with faded memories. It was like she could almost hear the echoes of Sam’s laugh while she wore his varsity jacket, or them sharing chaste kisses at her locker. 

    Maybe waiting for Seth to come out the car would’ve been best.

    Leah mumbled a quick, “I hate high school,” before approaching Seth. A sudden flitter of nerves danced in her chest at the sight of Jacob sitting next to him. She wondered if he was still upset about last night. Somehow the thought of Jacob being any kind of angry at her, made her feel queasy. Jacob liked everyone, no matter the size, age, or color. It was his nature to be full of acceptance and to make friends (with the exception of vampires). So if he didn’t like her, then what the hell does that say about her?

    When Seth was already seated in the car, Leah gathered up enough courage to ask the bubbling question. “Are they still mad at me?”

    Jacob sighed and nodded. “Yeah…” The queasy feeling resurfaced. And Leah quickly realized it wasn’t due to the fact that the pack was mad at her still. She didn’t give a damn about their feelings. It was the fact that just Jacob. 

    Then he quickly added, “It’s not all your fault, by the way. I mean yeah, you should’ve worked with us instead, but you’re still new. You’re still learning, and those gasbags don’t realize it. And besides, both of those leeches had it coming.”

    Leah couldn’t hide her smile. He didn’t hate her after all.

    She gently nudged his side. “Thanks, Jacob.”

    He nudged her back. “Anytime.”    

    And she didn’t hate him either.

    “Don’t say shit. Don’t touch shit. You know what? Don’t even breath on shit, okay—”

    Seth groaned dramatically, “Leah, I only got into a fight, I didn’t commit murder!”

    Leah rolled her eyes, continuing to drive down their street, approaching the house. “You damn near did, Seth! Maybe if we weren’t actual fucking werewolves, then I would’ve patted you on the back. Hell, might’ve even bought you a cake to celebrate.”

    Seth sunk in his seat, almost pouting. “Sorry.”

    Leah glanced over to him, and deflated his resemblance of a wounded puppy. “Thanks, though.”

    He rose a brow, sitting up more straight. “For what?”

    “Defending me. How very noble. ” Leah mocked, and started poking his side, making him recoil with laughter. She continued to tickle him until they pulled into the driveway. “I’m serious, you little shit, don’t tell Mom!”

    Seth pushed her hands away, still giggling. “Yeah, yeah! I get it.”

    The Clearwater siblings enter the house still full of smiles, exchanging a few nudges. A soft voice captures their attention, making their movements freeze. The most shocking of it all was that it came from the living room. The room that has been silently marked as forbidden since Harry’s death. The right wall still held claw marks and the coffee table was still destroyed. The only difference was the blood was wiped up and the couches have been placed like before.

    It was like walking through a crime scene you created. 

    It was more eerie to see Sue sit down in a chair furthest away from the spot where Harry passed out. A cup of coffee was gripped in her palms, while she exhaled a careful breath. Leah could tell that her mother was repeating the same mantra that she’s created for herself.

    Can't fall apart. Not anymore. 

    “Hey, Mom…” Seth warily greeted.

    Sue forced a warm smile, and gestured to the couch in front of her. “Please, sit.” 

    They sat with hesitance, scared that even the wrong move might send their mother crumbling. They wouldn’t judge, of course, because they’ll be right there to pick up every piece.

    Without missing a beat, “The funeral is this Saturday.”

    Leah furrowed her brows, and quickly reverted her eyes to the spot where her father laid. It felt much more colder towards that corner, as if his ghost still lingered upon it.

    “Funeral? What… how?” Seth mumbled, mostly to himself. But his thoughts were valid. Nobody has even considered a funeral. Unfortunately, vampires have overshadowed everything in their life. 

    Sue took another sip of her coffee. “Billy and Old Quil, and Charlie took the initiative. After asking me, of course. I just couldn’t…” her voice trailed off as her eyes finally locked on the far corner. Then a cry escaped her lips, as she tried to muffle it with her hands.

    Her children didn’t hesitate to comfort her, even after her protests. “I’m so sorry… to the both of you. I—I wasn’t there for you, I’m so sorry—”

    Leah shook her head, allowing her tears to flow freely. “No, Mama. Don’t apologize. We understand.”

    Seth sniffed, hugging her tightly. “We still love you, that won’t change.

    In this moment, in their little circle, vampires and werewolves didn’t exist. There was no Cullens or any danger surrounding them. There was nothing but love and grief, all swirling around to ensure peace in the end. And Leah finally realized this is what she will be fighting for.

    It didn’t take long to be sucked back into the real world, which included a meeting about chasing a ferocious, red headed vampire to the Canadian border. Everyone, excluding Seth and Jake, was gathered in Sam’s kitchen/dining room either stuffing gnaw on a chicken bone or sulking in the shadow of a corner. Leah was the one in the corner, of course.

    Everytime she stepped into this house, it felt like she was being thrown into a prison full of cruel and unusual punishments. A smirk grew on her lips as she thought of the cruel and unusual thing she could do to Sam. And Emily, too.

    “Are you even listening, Leah?” Sam huffed, making the attention of the pack fall on her. 

    She snapped out of her daydream and arched a brow. “Am I supposed to?”

    Sam was almost seething. It’s been almost a month since the Clearwater’s have phased and it seemed as though their Alpha was getting pushed to his limit. Leah couldn’t understand why. If anyone should be off their rockers is her.

    Sam didn’t say anything, only a small motion of his hand to make her follow him into the secluded living room. But Leah didn’t move, determined to stay rooted to the floor. She wasn’t his pet to follow his commands.

    An inhuman growl rumbled in his throat. “ Now, Leah. ”

    The alpha order crashed through everyone, and a few others twitched in their seats, almost ready to follow him, too. Leah didn’t have a chance because her feet were moving before her mind could protest. The last thing she needed was to be trapped in a room with her ex boyfriend. Yet, here she was.

    Leah threw her arms in the air, trying to shake off the invisible shackles he planted on her. “The fuck do you want, Samuel?”

    “This has to stop, Leah.” He marched towards her, but stopped feet away. As if he was restricted by an imaginary brick wall. “I am your Alpha, and you need to respect me.”

    Leah narrowed her eyes. “I don’t got to do shit. I didn’t choose for you to be my Alpha, I didn’t choose any of this!”

    “And you think I did?!” 

    They both froze, knowing they were now talking about something else. Something that was forbidden to think about in the pack mind. Her memories that were locked in a deep vault urged to burst open and crack her down. 

    Leah gulped, still remaining eye contact. “I think we both know you could’ve done more.”

    For a moment, Sam softened. And in that same moment, Leah could still see it. The same man that went down on one knee, with a small diamond ring and a big smile. She saw a boy in the tenth grade stuttering and tripping over himself trying to impress the new freshman in his gym class. She saw the man who cried in her arms because his dad left again. She saw someone who still loved her .

    “I’m so sorry, Lee—”

    “No.” She shook her head, trying to hold up every wall she built for herself. “You—You can’t…”

    Then the living room door pushed open to reveal a small figure, and the tension only grew more insufferable. Leah let out a loud scoff at the presence of her cousin.

    She shut the door behind her. “Is everything… okay?”

    “Fucking fantastic! Emily Young is here to save the day.” 

    Sam’s face hardened back to his usual mask, and shot her a warning glare. Then he turned to Emily with a soft tone. “Please go back to the guys, it’s not safe in here.”

    Leah’s eyes traced her cousin’s scars and gritted her teeth. She started to pace the room, hoping to look for an escape. Maybe if she pissed them both off enough that she can finally go home.

    Emily shook her head, stepped further into the living room. “I need to be here, too, Sam. She’s my cousin.”

    Leah laughed loudly, still pacing like an animal trapped in a cage. “Oh so now you’re my cousin? Now you’re entitled to me? Fuck you, Emily.”

    “Watch it, Leah!” Sam edged closer, defense on a high. Anything for his precious imprint. It made her sick.

    Leah stepped closer, her jaw flexing. “Or what? If you’re gonna beat my ass, Sam, then fucking do it. I’d love to see you try.”

    Emily interjected before things could escalate more than it has. “Leah, listen. I know things have been messed up this past year and I know I’m last person that you like, right now—”

    Leah ran her fingers through her slightly damped hair. “If you’re going to say sorry, please shove that half assed apology up your ass. Everybody on this damn res knows that both of you don’t give a shit about what happened! Just admit it, instead of being the little cowardly bitch you have always been!”

    Leah didn’t realize she was getting closer to Emily with her teeth bared until Sam shoved her across the room. “ I said watch it! ” 

    Everything was blurry due to the fact Leah fell into a state of shock. She never would’ve thought that Sam—someone that loved her, at least in the past—would’ve put his hands on her. Even though their strength was equal on a supernatural level, her wolf would never physically harm its Alpha. But the human side said fuck no. 

    Leah abruptly got up from the floor, and knocked off her shackles and spit in between his eyes. “Burn in hell.”

    She bumped past Emily’s shoulder and rushed out the house, where the rest of the pack was greeting Bella Swan. Her meaningless presence angered her even more. She was tired of seeing this pathetic little white girl manipulate a guy who she is actually starting to tolerate. 

    “I’m so sorry about your father.”

    Leah’s body shook with urging rage. “Of course you are. Listen, if you’re here to torture Jacob some more, please feel free to leave.” 

    Leaving thick silence behind her, she hit the tree line, letting her wolf take over.

Chapter Text

Chapter 9

Realizations and Bedrooms

    The sun was finally set, and Jacob was tossing and turning  in between his bed sheets, trying to catch some sleep before his hours-long patrol. But his mind was residing in Bella’s voice, Bella’s scent, Bella’s promises, Bella Bella Bella . Oh and also, BELLA. It was quite maddening, even for a love sick puppy like Jacob Black. He was contemplating slamming his head into the door in order to knock him out. But Jacob probably doesn’t have enough willpower to give himself a concussion, and he knows Billy won’t do it.

    But there’s one person that wouldn’t hesitate.

    Maybe that’s why he was now pacing in front of Leah’s bedroom window, once again. Or maybe he just wanted to see her. Jacob was starting to feel his stomach clench and his heart was beginning to bang against his rib cage. He doesn’t remember the last time he felt so nervous to speak to a girl. Bella has also been number one in his mind, that speaking to anyone else was easy as the flow of water. But this was Leah Clearwater. The one girl that isn’t afraid to break someone’s neck, or burn down a vampire. She was her own superhero, not needing anyone else. And Jacob couldn’t help but to admit that it was intimidating, but also intriguing. 

    He gathered up enough courage and picked up a small rock. The least he could do this time is to knock before trying to break in. 

    After a few pebbles bouncing off the window, a small light was turned on and a slim silhouette appeared. 

    “What the hell, Jake?” Leah semi-whispered, her words still not very coherent.

    Jacob let out a heavy exhale, attempting to calm down his nerves. “Can I… uhm… come up? I guess.”

    Her eyebrows shot up, and then she slammed the window back down.

    “Leah! C’mon, please? I’m not tryna be creepy or anything! I need you!” The words came out in a rush before Jacob could realize what he was saying. It was a heavy realization knowing he now considers Leah as his friend, and it was more mind boggling knowing he wants her to become closer friends. 

    A few heartbeats later, the window came back up, followed by a quiet, “Hurry up.”

    A smile broke out on his face, not hesitating to boat himself up on the window sill, and stepping out into her room. Another realization hit him, causing a blush to burn the tip of his ears. He was now standing in the middle of Leah Clearwater’s room. He tried to compress any crude thoughts that were starting to surface. As in what the hell does Leah do when she’s alone… .

    Jacob mentally slapped himself. If he was going to be friends with Leah, he 

shouldn’t be fantasizing about her. 

    Leah crawled back in her bed, sitting with her legs crossed. Her spaghetti straps hidden in the shadows of her long, wavy hair, and her sweatpants mixed in between her comforter. There was a thin layer of sweat coated on her brown skin like she took a light jog minutes before. Jacob had to force himself to look away when he noticed her nipples were damn near completely visible from her thin tank top. He was starting to regret coming here, ‘cause only the Spirits knew what Leah would do to him if he got a hard on in her bedroom.

    Leah tilted her head. “So, things must be fucked up if you’re here.”

    Jacob sighed, remembering what was keeping him from sleep. He sat next to her, and being in her bed felt foreign—almost forbidden. He cleared his throat, and fiddled with his fingers. “I know you’re going to hate me for talking ‘bout this but—”

    Leah groaned, throwing her head back. “I swear, if you came here thirty minutes before our patrols just to talk about that skinny little brat—”

    “Leah!”

    “It’s ridiculous, Jacob! Why are you letting her pull your leash? You might be a fucking werewolf, but you’re nobody’s dog.” 

    Jacob buried his head into his hands, suddenly feeling overwhelmed. “I’m in fucking love with her and I don’t know what to do.”

    Leah went quiet beside him. Jacob imagined that she was rolling her eyes and preparing to open the window to throw him out—literally. But he was shocked to feel a hand full of heat palm his bare shoulder. He felt her body move closer to him, and her fingers started to caress his skin. She was comforting him, not killing him. 

    “I get it.” Her voice is more soft than ever. “But, Jake… love is not everything.”

    Jacob didn’t realize a few tears escaped until he lifted his head, tasting a few. “Whatcha’ mean?”

    “I mean… there has to be other things that keep a relationship, or uhm… whatever you and Bella are in, right now.” She sent an apologetic smile and continued, “There has to be respect, communication, and trust.”

    Trust. Jacob shivered at the word, his head starting to pound. He wondered if Bella and him had any of those aspects. The headache grew as he drew up blanks. Maybe if the bloodsucker was out of the way, things would be easier. Like breathing. 

    Bella wouldn’t be signing her life to eternal life, she would be by Jacob’s side, and she would live out her life to the fullest, even with the protection of the pack. But all of that was going up in smoke because of one common denominator. 

    Edward Cullen was the root of all the evil. 

    “You get it, now?” Jacob could barely focus on Leah's voice, as his head was throbbing.

    He sniffed and wiped his face. “I think so… I’m just tired.” He laid back on the bed, watching the ceiling fan rotate. The circular motion was calming, giving him some sort of concentration. 

    The bed shifted and now Leah laid on her side, facing him. They stayed this way for a few moments, enjoying the silence. Jacob felt his eyes get more heavier as the seconds passed on, until a question itched at his brain.

    “Is this how you felt—or feel—about… Sam?” 

    Leah’s breathing hitched, and for a second, Jacob was afraid that he messed up the peace.

    But then with a crack in her voice, she said, “Yes. And it hurts.”

    Jacob turned his side, finally facing her. Both of their bodies were curled on the queen size bed, still in danger of having their feet hang off the ends. He saw her eyes starting to tint red and become more glossy. The pure sight of witnessing the walls of Leah Clearwater—the girl who never needs saving—come tumbling down, was heart wrenching. And he felt his eyes burn as well.

    “Look at us,” Jacob sniffed with a small smile. “Being pathetic. Such a classic.”

    Leah choked out a laugh. “Yeah, so fucking pathetic.”

    And with only fifteen minutes to spare, Jacob’s eyes fluttered close.

    The next morning, the phone rings throughout the house, awakening Jacob’s well needed slumber. He groaned into his pillow, silently plotting murder on who ever is calling at nine am on a fucking Saturday. 

    “Dad!” Jacob yelled, hoping he was already in the kitchen. But he was answered by silence. The house was empty, and his father was sure enough already out fishing with Charlie. 

    With another reluctant groan, he answered the second phone call. “What?” 

    Bella’s soft voice poured through the speaker. “Jake, I need you.”

    A shiver went down his spine as he clenched the phone, hearing a slight crack in the plastic. At this rate, they will need to buy another phone, again. 

    “Bells? Why? What happened?” Panic edged in his throat, realizing the urgency to her tone. 

    “There was a vampire in my room. The Cullens said it might’ve been someone passing through, but Jake…” She sighed, her stress even visible over the phone. “Charlie was here. The vampire could’ve…”

    “I know. What do you want me to do?” Any plots of murder was out the window, and was quickly replaced with desperation. If Bella wanted him to build a fucking skyscraper, he wouldn’t hesitate. 

    And that’s why he was speeding in his Rabbit and ended up parked in front of the Swans’ household. The bloodsucker stood outside of the house, dangerously still, resembling a mannequin in the window of a retail store. 

    Jacob laughed to himself, shut his car door behind him. “What? You’re not invited in?”   Classic vampire. 

    Edward smirked. “Trust me, I have been.”

    The way he said it made Jacob’s blood boil. Unwanted images of Edward being invited into many other things poured in his mind, and he wanted to throw up. 

    Edward grimaced at his thoughts. “You’re repulsive.”

    “And you’re a mind rapist.” 

    “Not really the appropriate term—”

    Jacob huffed, “Does it look like a give a shit? Where’s Bella?”

    On cue, she appeared in the doorway with a small smile. Jacob’s heart instantly warmed, and he almost forgot the presence of the vampire standing only a foot away from him. The hiss escaping from Edward’s sharp teeth brought him back to reality.

    “Hey, Jake.” Bella greeted, and motioned from him to come inside.

    Jacob made sure to bump Edward’s shoulder. A childish antic, sure. But it felt necessary. 

    He trailed behind Bella as she led them upstairs. Any other time, he would’ve been grinning from ear to ear. Like… this is Bella Swan, the new found love of his life, leading him to her bedroom. He remembers a time when sticking carrots up his nose and smelling like an interesting mix of mustard and burnt gym socks used to make girls run for the hills. Now, he’s been in two girl’s bedrooms in the span of 24 hours. Granted, nothing happened and nothing is happening, but it was still every teenage boy’s dream.

    Before any fantasies clouded his mind, he was struck with a loud scent that almost made him nauseous. It was sickenly sweet and it pierced his nose as if he sniffed up tiny needles. 

    “Holy shit, Bells.” He breathed out, scrunching up his nose. His eyes scanned over the room, expecting the vampire to jump out from the closet.

    Bella nodded, crossing her arms. “Edward thinks if you get scent, then you and the pack can look out.”

    Jacob nods, still making sure everything was intact. Then his eyes landed on her, and let his shoulders slump.

    “Are you okay?” 

    Bella sighed, running her fingers through her hair. It was chocolate brown, and didn’t hold many curls, it fell stiffly over her shoulders. Completely different from Leah’s from last night. Jacob pulled his eyebrows together at the sudden comparison.

    “Trying to be okay, I guess. What about you?” 

    Jacob let out a dry chuckle. “Yeah, fantastic. Chasing vampires is my new favorite hobby.”

    Bella gave him a small grin, and inched closer. “So about what I said last time—”

    “Don’t,” He visibly cringed, shaking his head. He was too afraid of Bella taking back her promises and he definitely didn’t need to hear the word trust , again. “You don’t have to say anything. We have time, remember?”

    Bella deflated, staring at her shoes. Jacob could sense the anxiety rolling off of her and clashing onto him, like a domino effect. 

    “What’s wrong?” 

    She gulped, taking a step back, still not being able to look him in the eye. “Graduation.”

    Jacob was still not getting it. “Graduation? What about it?”

    “That’s when… it will happen, Jake.” She warily looked up at him with her lip caught in between her teeth. 

    A quick rumble went through his muscle, invisible underneath his t-shirt. He stood still, practically stuck to the carpet floors. It was unsettling to watch the horror grow on his features, and hear his breathing grow at a rapid pace. His lips twitching into a snarl and his jaw clenching. Bella found herself taking multiple steps back.

    “In… a fucking… month ?”

    Jacob didn’t realize the steps he was taking. Like a wolf cornering a deer. 

    Edward appeared in a flash, pushing Bella's pack behind him. His pitch black eyes glared towards Jacob, ready to protect Bella at all cost.

    “Get away from her.” 

    Jacob quirked a brow, not even the slightest intimated by the vampire. “Or what? You’re gonna kill me? I’d like to see you motherfucking try.”

    “Stop! Jake!” Bella struggled to escape from Edward's protective stance. 

    “Alright,” Edward sniffed. “You’re done here.”

    Jacob grabbed his arm, yanking him closer. “No, you’re done here.”

    Bella finally got through and pushed herself in the middle of them. Jacob didn’t know what to be more angry about: Edward turning her into a fucking bloodsucker in a month, or Bella throwing herself in between a barely unstable werewolf and a vampire! Either way, he was ready to explode.

    “I’m tired of this, okay?” Bella shrieked. “From now on, I’m Switzerland! I don't expect you guys to chuck a football around together, but we have enough problems. And this is one temporary solution. Are you at least willing to try?” 

    Jacob released Edward’s arm, and stepped back. His body still shook underneath his suffocating clothes, and he still had an urgency to get the hell out of here.

    They both nod, not saying anything.

    Bella sighs. “Okay, good. Now don’t y’all need to… uhm.. schedule somethings? Coordinate?”

    They still keep their silence, afraid to say the wrong thing that will end up destroying this entire house. 

    Bella rolls her eyes. “Fine. Jake, do you think the pack could do nights?”

    He shrugs and forces the words out his mouth. “I’ll talk to Sam about it.”

    Bella gave him a grateful smile and turned to Edward. “How about you guys? Days?”

    Edward’s only nods.

    “Good! See, how hard was that?”

    By the following night, everything was coordinated. The Cullens were stationed around Bella’s house during the day, and whoever was on patrol during the night, the pack took their place. At sunset, Leah and Jacob relieved the two vampires. They both recognized them instantly. The big buff one was Emmett, and the blond esas Rosalie. The two who tried to gang up on Leah weeks ago. The two werewolves both tried not to snap their teeth at them as they left.

    They make me sick. Leah mentally gagged.

    Who you tellin’? I can’t wait for this to be over.

    Leah shoved him with her muzzle. You got us into this, dip shit!

    What? How?

    You could’ve said no, but you just have to play captain save a ho. 

    Jacob snipped at her ankles, making her yelp. Don’t call her that! And Sam could’ve said no, he’s the Alpha.

    Leah’s scoffed bounced in their heads. Oh please. You know Sam takes your every word. And besides, we all know who’s the true Alpha around here. 

    He rolled his eyes, laying down on his underbelly. Don’t start.

    Leah knocked her forepaw into his head, teasingly. Oh come on! You have the chance to drop Sam to his knees. Don’t you want to feel the power, oh-great-one.

    Jacob shoved her away. No, I don’t. I didn’t even want to be a werewolf in the first place, what makes you think I should be the leader of its pack?

    Leah went thoughtful, and before Jacob could decipher her thoughts, she said, You’re afraid, aren’t you?

    If he could squint his eyes, he would. He wasn’t think of any fears, so he wondered why Leah even picked up on something so small.

    It’s kind of obvious, actually. And no fear is small.

    Leah laid by his side, stretching her wolf. You’re afraid that you won’t be good enough, and you’d fail. 

    Jacob mentally snorted, And why would I succeed? I’m sixteen, I don’t have another clothes because they’re always tearing into pieces, I’ve only killed one vampire, and I’m stuck on a girl that’s in love with a vampire! Trust me, the pack is better off without me.

    He let the last part slip as he sunk further into the grass. Leah’s thoughts went more quiet, but he could still feel her mind coming up with words to say. 

    I’m glad you’re here.

    Jacob’s ears perked, as he turned his large head towards Leah. She whined, looking away from him and gazed at Bella’s house, instead. Silence washed over them for a few beats, letting themselves enjoy the sounds of nature.

    Thanks, Leah.

Chapter Text

Chapter 10

Beating Drums

    Leah felt like she was drowning. Over and over again. Suffocating and fading into darkness with every movement she made. She tried to focus on the fringes of her traditional attire, hoping to obsess over something ridiculous like what kind of fabric is this made out of or how much did it take to sow this dress, anyway. But with every thought she had, there was a shadow overcasting. The reminder of this Sunday afternoon was making her head throb and the shadow was urging to consume her.

    Leah sat in front of her mother, as her hair was being braided. Her fingers constantly fiddled with the hem of the dress, while she focused on breathing. 

    “ My daughter… ” Sue spoke in her native tongue. “ His spirit will move on. ”

    Leah let a tear fall. “I know.”

    As she walked down the steps, holding onto her mother’s hand, she felt like she was floating. Unable to feel the security of the ground beneath her, the anxiety of knowing she could fall and never being able to get back up. Leah held onto Sue’s hand a little more tighter.

    Seth didn’t speak. And it was unsettling to watch him move past them in such a transparent way. Leah could see right through him, and his emotions were suffocatingly clear. The realizations were finally settling in between the Clearwater siblings, and there was no amount of patrols or vampires that could distract them now. 

    The funeral setting was bright. For the first time in weeks, the sun was free from clouds, illuminating the festive display. There wasn't any somber music, nor black dresses and ties. This was a bittersweet celebration in order to guide Harry Clearwater’s spirit to somewhere where the birds sang sweet melodies and where pain didn’t exist. Knowing that there was only peace awaiting her father, Leah could breathe a little bit better.

    Drums announced their presence and everyone cleared a path. The Clearwaters’ walked along the path, with their heads held high and their tears locked away. Leah could feel everyone’s eyes thumping against her, and she started thinking of ways to escape. 

    But then she caught a pair of eyes, brown and delicate. His smile stretched, with his eyes glistened with past tears. So full of hope—hope she didn’t know she needed. It was times like these, she was grateful to have a friend like Jacob Black.

    The Clearwaters’ stood above the casket, and their hearts warmed at the sight. Harry was dressed in full regalía, with red paint smeared on one side of his face. His body laid still, surrounded by his precious items. The three of them grabbed a burning sage, allowing the smoke travel around Harry’s body. Leah felt a silent sob emerge, as she imagined her father’s warm embrace, and she could almost feel it. She could still hear his voice, and his stories about the legends of the protectors. Deep inside she knew her father was not lost or gone. He would be the breeze in the trees, and the sun that shined. 

    Hope fulfilled her once again.

    The Clearwaters’ house was filled with close friends and families. Food was displayed for everyone, and chatter scattered throughout the rooms. Leah meaninglessly sipped on her fruit punch, as she leaned on the kitchen countertop. She watched people come and go, grabbing an extra paper plate or to ask where the bathroom is. The floating feeling resurfaced, and everything seemed to be tipping off the axis. It was like staring at a grenade after ripping off the pin. It was going to explode soon enough.

    “Hey, Sis.” Seth greeted with a raspy tone, as if he just got done with a screaming match. 

    Leah forced a comforting smile. “Thirsty?”

    Seth reluctantly nodded his head, and leaned on the countertop. His nails dug into his exposed arm, and Leah could faintly smell blood surfacing.

    “Things are gonna get better, Seth.” Leah blurted, while pouring his cup.

    “You don’t know that…”

    Leah nodded, passing him his drink. “You’re right. I don’t. But you have to trust that it will.”

    Seth looked up to her, his eyelashes damp. “What if this isn’t the only one?”

    His sister furrowed her brows, inching closer. “What do you mean?”

    He heavily sighed, and wiped his face. Leah’s heart sank when she saw how much older he looked at this moment. As if he was thirty-four rather than fourteen. It was simply saddening.

    “I mean what if this isn’t the only funeral we have to go to, Lee!” Seth whined, his eyes widening. “Can you honestly sit there and tell me that I won’t have to bury Quil, Embry, Jake, or even you ?” 

    Leah quickly straightened and grabbed his shoulders. His chest rose in an uneven pattern, and his eyes held heavy tears. “Hey, hey… Seth, you don’t have to—to think about that. Not right now, not ever !”

    He sniffed. “But it could happen—”

    “No, Seth!” She shook him a little, a certain urgency edging onto her voice. “None of us is going to die. I can promise you that because we’re wolves. We have a duty to protect everyone, including ourselves.”

    Seth nodded, but his bottom lip still quivered and his eyes were overflowing and tinted red. Leah brought him into a tight hug, and whispered to him in Quileute. “ I love you, Seth.”

    His quiet sob was muffled in her dress, as he responded, “ I love you, too.”

    The day was winding down, and conversations were running out. Leah was counting the minutes so she could finally shut her eyes. She actually found herself lost in a conversation with her aunt, but then a familiar deep voice carried throughout the house. Her elevated hearing knew exactly who stepped into her home.

    Her teeth gritted together as she hastily excused herself. She needed to get the hell out of his house. Instead of shooting straight out the door, she ran into her mom instead.

    “Leah? What happened?” Sue asked with a plate of cake in her hands. 

    “ You invited Sam? ” The words came out in a furious hiss, and a flash of fear went through Sue’s features. Without a thought, her mother took a cautious step backwards, almost tripping over her dress.

    Leah calmed herself down, feeling a heavy guilt crash onto her. “Sorry, sorry. I—I didn’t mean to—”

    Sue put her hand up, silencing her. “It’s alright. I… I invited Emily. She’s still Harry’s niece.”

    Leah nodded. “I know, I just—”

    “She shouldn’t have invited Sam, but Harry was also a part of the… council.” She said in a hushed tone, referring to the pack. “He wanted to share his condolences.”

    Leah wanted to say that he could shove whatever condolences up his ass, but she could still see the redness under Sue’s eyes, and the shakiness of her hand. Today was not the day.

    “I need some air.” Leah headed straight to the back door, her throat suddenly dry and suffocated. As her hand gripped on the door handle, the sickening sight of Sam’s hand engulfing Emily’s came into view. A kiss planted on her cheek then her lips.

    The growl rumbling in her chest, made Sam’s head snap towards her. A look of grief and guilt over casted his features, and a frown took the place of his smile. 

    Leah knew she should’ve taken her chance to escape, but her feet were rooted to the hardwood floors with a deathly grip on the door handle. Her eyes were trained on Sam with a striking death glare, and she only realized that he was right in front of her when his hand landed on her arm.

    “Are you okay, Lee?” His voice was oddly gentle and cautious. As if he was handling the most expensive piece of glass. 

    Leah shook off his hand with a dismissive noise. “I just buried my father. How do you think I feel?”

    Sam stuffed his hands into his pockets and checked his surroundings. Emily emerged herself in a conversation with Sue, occasionally sparing the two worried glances. The sight was truly hilarious. It was almost like Sam trying to calm down his mistress while his wife was only a few feet away. The comparison made Leah’s blood boil.

    “We need to talk,” He started.

    “We already talked.”

    “Well, there’s other shit to talk about, Lee—”

    “ Stop fucking callin’ me that! ” Leah growled, while her body shook. A few heads turned towards them, and Sam quietly swore, putting on a fake smile. But Leah refused to smile for his benefit or for everyone else’s. If she was pissed off, then she has no problem letting the whole world know.

    “Outside? Please?”

    Leah flexed her jaw, and finally pulled the door open. “Fine, easier to beat the shit out of you.”

    They both stepped outside, away from prying eyes and ears. The fresh air was no longer satisfying, but toxicating. She blamed Sam Uley for that.

    “Leah, please. You have to help me understand.” Sam inched closer with his hands pressed together.

    Leah scoffed, throwing her hands in the air. “The fuck do you want from me, Sam? You want me to throw you and Emily a fucking engagement party? Huh?”

    “That’s not what I’m asking. I just—I just don’t understand… how this can happen and you—”

    She crossed her arms, keeping a safe distance from them. “You’re not making any sense.”

    Sam cursed under his breath, a hand running through his short hair. “I don’t get it. After imprinting, everything is supposed to change.” He was more speaking to himself at this point. 

    Leah shook her head, preparing herself to dash towards the tree line. “I don’t have time for your mental breakdown, alright?”

    Sam rushed towards her, catching her off guard. His hands hesitated, not knowing if he should touch her or not. “I imprinted on Emily, but…”

    No. This can’t be happening, this shouldn’t happen. Leah packed away any feelings for this man long ago, not being able to bear the absence of him. Now he was here basically confessing that he was still in love with her. They both knew there wasn’t a chance in hell that they would be together again. It was no longer written in the stars, the spirits said so themselves. This confession was just simply cruel. 

    In the next second, Sam head whipped to the side, followed by a loud smack that echoed through the night breeze. Leah’s hand stung, still frozen at the impact. For the first time since Leah phased, she finally saw a glimpse of how pathetic Sam really was. His Alpha position was a mask that was slowly, but surely, slipping away. And soon enough, everyone would see his downfall.

    “Stay away from me.” She fumed.

    And Leah would make sure she had front row seats.

    It was one am, and she could still hear the beating drums. It reminded her of the missing heartbeat in the house. Something that can no longer be found or replaced. She tossed and turned in between her thin sheets, forcing the tears back. The wall she built for herself took multiple hits today, and she wasn’t sure how to repair them. But being in this house, wanting to hear her father’s heartbeat one last time, wasn’t going to help. 

    Leaves crunched under her bare feet as she walked with determination and sorrow trailing behind her. Her long braid swung back and forth along her back, as her walk turned into a jog. She could already smell the scent of pine trees and cinnamon as she approached the small, red house. She doesn’t know how long she stood there, contemplating and calculating on how wrong this could go. Like what if Billy wakes up and sees Leah Clearwater breaking into his home. What would her response be? Oh, I just wanted to borrow your sugar? 

    Leah scoffed at herself, and finally approached his window. It was already cracked, and she was tall enough to reach the window sill. She jumped and hoisted herself up with a grunt and a string of curses.

    Jacob stirred in his sleep, his snores stuttered. Leah rolled her eyes and thought, Of course he snores! Sounds like a dying lawn mower.

    She landed with a loud thump, making him wake entirely. His eyes squinted open, as he sat up with a yawn. Leah cleared throat, standing with her arms at her side. She shifted, crossing her arms, not sure how to come up with an explanation of climbing through Jacob Black’s window at one am, wearing nothing but stretched yoga shorts and a sports bra. 

    Maybe he would really believe that I needed some sugar…

    “Leah Clearwater, what the hell are you doing?” 

    She lifted her chin and snatched a pillow off his bed, making him look at her like she was crazy. “I’m sleeping over. You got an extra blanket?”

    Jacob’s eyes were wide, and his jaw went slack. “Wha—What do you… wait a minute—”

    Leah waved her hand, and went towards his closet. “There’s probably one in here. I won’t find any pornos stacked in here, will I?”

    Jacob continued to stammer, still drunk with sleep. “Leah, what the hell—”

    “I’m crumbling, Jacob!” She blurted, sharply turning on her heels. His mouth clamped shut, and his surprise fluttered away, as a look of concern made him frown. A few beats of silence passed through them until Leah spoke with a slight crack in her voice.

    “I don’t… I don’t know how to fix this. I don’t know if I would have to bury someone next, but I do know that I cannot sleep in that house. So… please. ” Leah locked her eyes to Jake’s, hoping to communicate without words. 

    With a simple nod, he motioned for her to come here. “You’re not gonna find anything in there. Here.”

    He handed her his own blanket and another pillow. She set up a makeshift bed on the floor beside the bed, and let out a sigh once she was situated. For the first time in a while, an awkward silence hovered over them. The realization of their first sleepover dawning on them, and they both swore to themselves to never think of this in their pack mind. The uproar that would cause is actually pretty amusing and horrifying. 

    The uncomfortable silence passed when Jacob spoke in a small voice. “I don’t remember her.”

    Leah hummed, turning her body towards him. Jacob leaned dangerously close to the edge of the bed, clutching the pillow in his arms. He—again—looked so young in this frame. Resembling a child confessing a secret.

    “I don’t remember what my mom looked like,” He continued. “Dad has her pictures locked away, and I never…. I never could bring myself to ask.”

    “Why not?”

    “I’m scared I’m going to miss her even more…” He sucked in his bottom lip, his mind deeply concentrated. “I get why Becca and Rach left. But I just wish…”

    “They helped fix it?”

    With a quivering sigh, he nodded. “I hate to admit it but…my family is broken. But I found out the hard way that some things need to fix themselves.”

    His words lingered in the air, eventually wrapping around her mind. They locked eyes, and her chest felt heavy as she felt herself drifting into foreign territory. But it was tempting and inviting.

    “You’re not alone, Leah.”

    A small smile formed on her lips, never leaving his gaze. “I know.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 11

Nightmares

A bone chilling breeze roamed the empty house and for the first time in months, she felt cold. The floorboard creaked underneath her bare feet, threatening to crumble from one wrong move. His deep voice rumbled and bounced off each wall, getting louder and louder with each step. But Leah couldn’t stop walking, the jingling chains bound around her ankles urging her to reach the end of the dark hallway. Emily’s laughter sounded sinister, scratching at her eardrums. She slapped her hands over her ears with tears clouding her vision. Drums were beating outside of the cracked windows, resembling an erratic heartbeat. Leah could taste the death awaiting for her, she just didn’t know if it was her death she was awaiting. 

    She took in sharp breaths, taking another step, but her body collided into the creaky surface. Her chains hooked into the floor, not allowing her escape the closing walls. It felt as if her body was turning inside out, and any warmth that was left in her heart was turning into ice. Her nerves throbbing with internal pain rattling her senses. She was too weak to break away from the restricting chains, but she still fought. The shackles cut into her skin, and she watched the blood pour from her ankles. A blood curdling scream broke from her throat, and a heartbreaking sob followed. 

    In a distorted flash, her father appeared over her. He was much younger, without a strand of gray hair on his head. His body didn’t hunch over, and his eyes didn’t hold such stress as they did before he died. But he was the opposite of death, he was the living. That’s when the realization crashed into Leah, and her eyes widened with traumatic fear. This was the end of her story.

    Leah’s eyes fluttered closed and took her last breath. She hoped for serenity and a restful slumber. Somewhere she didn’t have to worry about bloodsucking demons, or the raging jealousy that flamed inside of her. But light didn’t exist, not for her. Only darkness. 

    There was no peace, only catastrophe.

    With a jolt, Leah gasped for air. Her throat throbbed in protest, completely dry. Her long legs tangled in the sheets while her chest rose at an erratic pace. Her heart thumped against her rib cage, and she couldn’t tell what room she was in. Everything was blurry and her ears rang. But the smell of cinnamon and faint car oil swirled under her nose and brought her a satisfying comfort. Her surroundings became more clear, and knowing she was still on Jacob’s bedroom floor was a relief. 

    Her head whipped to Jacob’s bed, and watched as he peacefully slept. His relaxed features, and soft snores escaped his lips. Leah found herself wishing for his smile, and to tell her that she wasn’t living in her own personalized hell. She needed his hope.

    “You okay?” 

    Leah almost jumped at the sound of his smooth voice. But was quickly grateful that he was awake. 

    She suddenly felt like Seth when he was younger. He would always come into Leah’s room after having a nightmare, or imagining that a monster was in his closet. A blush spread through her ears, knowing she was about to do the same.

    Leah leaned on the edge of bed, resting her chin on the back of her hands. The room was dark, and only the light from the moon illuminated the small area. But it was enough to see how beautiful Jacob was in such a peaceful state.

    “Jake…” She whispered, knowing he could already hear her.

    “Mmm?” He hummed.

    “Can I…” She cleared her throat, hating how nervous she became. “Can I… sleep with you?”

    Jacob’s eyes snapped open, and he quickly propped himself up to his elbows. “Excuse me?”

    Leah’s blush grew worse as she slapped his bare arm. “Not like that, you dipshit! I… uh.. had a nightmare. So yeah.”

    Concern and sleep swirled in his brown eyes. “Another one?”

    Leah nodded, not able to look at him anymore. It was embarrassing to still be tormented by nightmares at the age of eighteen and a half. For the last three nights, Jacob has been calming her down and then they would never speak of them when the sun comes up. Matter of fact, Leah would already be out the door by that time. 

    “Come here,” His words sent chills down her skin, and she couldn’t pinpoint why. Maybe it was the deep waves in his voice that could put her under a spell if she allowed it. Or maybe it was that he lifted up his blanket enough to show the waistband of his briefs. Either way, Leah suppressed those thoughts, hoping they would never resurface.

    But it was impossible. 

    She listened to the clock tick from the living room, and focused on the early morning breeze from the cracked window. Leah hoped for any distraction, so she wouldn’t dwell on his naked skin pressed on her body. The twin bed was already small for Jacob, so it was impractical to avoid skin to skin contact. The only way they could make this work, if they both slept on their sides, and now Jacob had his back facing her. Leah tried to bring down her nerves, not aware of where they were coming from. And she didn’t realize what her hand was doing until she felt a shudder underneath her finger tips. She traced his defined muscles and down his spine. His reddish-brown skin was hot and coated with a thin layer of sweat, and she could hear his heart race. The air was thick, and although nobody moved, it was strangely erotic. 

    Leah’s breathing hitched when his body turned. He faced her with an intense expression. His eyes were hazy, and his plump lips agape. His gaze flickered to her lips, as he moved closer. Leah gritted teeth, suppressing a moan as she felt his hard dick press against her thigh. 

    “What do you want, Leah?” Jacob breathed out.

    With a surge of boldness, Leah locked her lips with his. His taste was a craving she didn’t know she needed. Her legs wrapped around his waist, bringing him closer. Their heat hugging the both of them, their desire raging within each other. Jacob shifted in between her legs, hovering above her. Their teeth clashed with urgency, and they both groaned at the created friction. Jacob’s hands wandered underneath her shirt, finding her perky nipples. Leah broke from the kiss to release a needy moan. She withered underneath him as his kisses trailed to her neck, lingering on her excited pulse. His frantic hands buried themselves underneath her shorts, making her cry out. She listened to him sigh from her slick, warm contact, and his fingers sped up the pace. Her nails dug into his skin, earning a satisfied hiss from him.

    Panting softly in her ear, “What do you want?”

    Then everything became hazy, and her vision blurred from the intensity. She couldn’t focus on anything but the throbbing sensation between her legs. But it was starting to fade, and she could no longer feel Jacob’s hands on her skin, and the room suddenly wasn’t as dark as before.

    With a sharp gasp, Leah snapped her eyes open, instantly greeted with the morning sun. The ruffled sheets were slightly damp, and her hair felt tangled and wild. The spot next to her was equally damp, but also empty. She gripped on her clothes, realizing that she was still clothed and absolutely not naked. 

     Holy shit… did I just dream that… She wanted to throw herself out the window. Preferably head first. It was better than knowing that she just had a sex dream about Jacob Black. 

    She sniffed the air and wanted to scream. Good GOD! You can even smell how horny I was?! Is that why Jacob left? Could he sense it? This was it. She could never face him again. She should pack her shit and move to Alaska and change her name to Franklin. 

    Leah jumped out of the bed, and searched for her overnight bag. But it was nowhere to be found. She cursed to herself, knowing she can’t leave her shit behind. Although she contemplated it.

    Maybe Jacob was already at school, maybe he left before the dream surfaced in her conscience. But all of her wishes ceased when she began to follow the smell of breakfast. She heard the sizzling of bacon and flipping of pancakes. There was only one heartbeat roaming in the Black household, and for a moment, she hoped it was Billy cooking breakfast. But it was no other than Billy Black’s son.

    It was not helping that he was still shirtless with drops of water lingering on his skin from a shower, no doubt. Leah watched the water disappear into the waistband of his sweats, and gulped hard. 

     Get it to-fucking-gether, Clearwater. 

    She cleared her throat but her voice was still higher than normal. “What—Whatcha cookin’?”

    Jacob glanced over his shoulder, and gave her one of his sunny grins. “Pancakes, bacon, and eggs.”

    Leah took careful steps towards the kitchen countertop. She was low-key afraid that if she moved too fast, she would jump him. 

    “Right! Right…” Her eyes trailed to the far away couch, and she squinted at the sight of her overnight bag. She knew for sure she didn’t place it there.

    Jacob scrunched his eyebrows, placing a pancake on a plate, sliding it towards her. “You alright, Leah?”

    Leah forced a smile, attempting to hide her frantic nerves. “Me? Oh, I’m—I’m fine. Great! I’m just…” She glanced at the slight bulge in his sweatpants and almost choked. “Hungry.”

    Jacob didn’t notice, and gave her a weird stare. “Nightmare still messin with you?”

    I wish… Leah wanted to mumble. “Nope! I’m great!”

    He smirked, turning back to the steaming stove. “You said that already.”

    Leah stabbed her fork into the pancake. “I did? Hmm… didn’t realize. Hey, aren’t you supposed to be in school? It’s not the weekend yet, Y’know? I’m pretty sure you need to catch up on that Algebra. Not saying you’re dumb or anything. I’m pretty sure you know how to...ummm... calculate?” 

    Jacob scrutinize as he put the last batch of bacon and eggs into a large plate. No doubt he was suspicious, who wouldn’t be? Leah Clearwater doesn’t ramble, nor does she sweat in the presence of a guy. 

     It was just a dream… It was just a dream. Not a reason to feel nervous. Dreams don’t mean shit anyways! I could’ve been fucking a cow with six legs and it still would’ve had the same effect. JUST CHILL BEFORE HE NOTICES! 

    Leah placed a smile on her face, and began stuffing her face.

Chapter Text

Chapter 12

Crushes Will Get You Crushed

    Conflicted didn’t seem like the right word. Jacob didn’t want to be confused either. Simply because if he was to be confused, then that means everything would change. Of course, the world wouldn’t end, but a piece of his sanity might. Either way, there was no amount of explanation that could make him understand why Leah Clearwater—out of all people—had this massive effect on him. Okay so massive might be overstating things, but he still felt his heart drop to his ass when he witnessed her squirming beside him this morning. And her scent … oh my god! It was like a new side of him had been released and it felt animalistic, or maybe just straight up horny. It’s not just the fact it was Leah Clearwater, it was the reaction to Leah Clearwater. And honestly, he was fucking terrified.

    Jacob nails were destroyed by the time he stopped chewing on them. His Rabbit rocked slightly because of his bouncing leg, and for the first time he wished for more space in his Volkswagen. He looked out onto the empty road on the edge of the treaty line, silently hoping for a sign. A sign to tell him he’s not going crazy and that he’s definitely not crushing on Leah. 

    He cringed, facepalming himself. Even the simple thought was insane. Him? Leah? Together? A tornado in La Push was more likely. Leah would probably gut him if he ever thought of her that way. She was already ready to throw him off a cliff when he peeped into her bedroom window. 

    Jacob took a deep breath, hearing the sound of a car approaching from a mile away. 

    Do not think about it. Do not think about it. It’s just a chemical reaction. That's it. THAT'S ALL! 

    He stepped out of his Rabbit, welcoming the fresh breeze hit his bare torso. He leaned on the trunk, stuffing his hands in his cargo shorts. Pushing every thought of Leah away from the forefront of his mind, replacing them with Bella. It was the only way to mask his true thoughts. Works every time.

    The black Volvo rolled up, right behind the treaty line. Jacob’s nose scrunched at the creeping smell of vampire, and automatically felt the tremor roll through his muscles. His wolf was ready to defend himself if necessary. He pulled a hair tie out of his pocket and pulled his hair into a ponytail at the nape of his neck. It wasn’t neatly done, but it no longer blew in his face. Although he wished it did now. Then he wouldn’t have to witness Cullen’s tongue down Bella’s throat. 

    It was a different type of pain to witness someone who you’re in love with be in the arms of another. It was times like this that Jacob wished love was voluntary, then he would be able to walk away from this embarrassment with a full heart, instead of a broken one. 

    Although, Jacob thought he could. He thought he could run right now and never look back. But once Bella started walking towards him with a grin on her rosy lips, every doubt flitted away and she was the center of his purpose. Jacob didn’t know if this a new kind of torture or love. But if it means to have her in his arms, then it didn’t matter. Not yet.

    Edward’s car drove off with a screech, and Bella let out a loud sigh. Almost like an invisible weight has been lifted. 

    “So, what’s the plan for today?” 

    Jacob opened his car door. “Well you’re gonna love this. We’re going to a party!”

    Bella furrowed her eyebrows and sat in the passenger seat. “A party? Like a house party or something?”

    Jacob snickered, starting the engine. “No, no. There’s a powwow today. I thought it would be fun to bring you.”

    “What’s a powwow?”

    He began to drive down the lonely road, not bothering to put on his seatbelt. “Damn, Bells, you’ve been in Phoenix for too long. A powwow is a celebration of American Indian culture. It is when we gather around for the purpose of dancing, singing, and honouring the traditions of our ancestors.”

    Bella nodded, and started fondling with the rings on her fingers. “Are you sure I could… go?”

    Jacob sped up a little, trying to ignore his underlying thoughts itching at the back of his mind. How in the hell am I supposed to function with Bella AND Leah at the same place?

    He gave her a warm smile. “Of course. Outsiders are welcomed.”

    “Cool. Will the pack be there?”

    “Yup.”

    Bella hesitated, gazing out the window. “Will… Leah be there?”

    Jacob damn near crashed the car. He was beyond lucky the mind rapist wasn’t here, because his thoughts were in a frenzy. And he could almost still smell Leah, and he began to wonder what the hell was she dreaming about….

    “Uh—Uhm… y—yeah. Of course. The whole Rez will be.” His voice was an octave higher and his grip was tightened around the steering wheel. 

    The pale brunette sighed, sinking in the seat. “She doesn’t like me. Like at all.”

    Jacob chuckled dryly. “She has her reasons.”

    She looked at him, narrowing her eyes. “Yeah? Like what?”

    Shit. The werewolf shifted uncomfortably in his seat, hoping to find a way out of hole he just dug for himself. “I’m saying that nobody hates someone for no reason.”

    Bella’s mouth went agape. “She hates me? I did nothing but be nice to her!”

    Jacob refrained from rolling his eyes and contemplated on ignoring her. She doesn’t realize that Leah’s loyalty would always remain to the people she cares about. And if someone hurts them, then she will try to protect them at all cost. 

    The thought of Leah caring about him that much made his chest feel warm. 

    “You do run with vampires, Bells.” He forced a teasing grin, glancing towards her. He hit the highway towards La Push, allowing himself to go a bit faster. “Y’know the vampires that made her a werewolf and made her father have a heart attack.”

    A remorseful look washed over her as she sunk back in the passenger seat. “That wasn’t the Cullens…”

    “Not much of a difference.”

    Silence fell over them with only the sounds of the rushing highway to fill the void. Things used to be easygoing between the childhood friends, but lately it was as if they were both stepping over grenades. It was bound to blow up in their faces soon.

    “Do you hate me?” Her voice was small and fragile, enough to crumble any defenses Jacob built before. Bella could step on his heart, literally, and he would still forgive her. 

    In the same tone, Jacob whispered, “I can never hate you.”

    It was a surprisingly warm day for La Push, which made everyone excited for the coming up powwow. The birds sang happily, and the bees buzzed from flower to flower. For once, it was starting to feel like the month of May. People were already gathering as the tents were being set up in the open field. Sam made everyone in the pack be involved in setting up and cleaning up. Any other day, Leah would tell him to suck it, but she was grateful for the distraction. She even volunteered to participate in the dances. Anything to distract her from Jacob Black.

    The female shapeshifter tried to convince herself that Jacob wasn’t that much of an importance for her to go to such lengths. But she would be lying to herself. Dreams are dreams. They happen suddenly and unexplainably. So of course, she’s not crushing on Jacob Black! It’s impossible and not to mention a little bit weird. He’s sixteen and she was pushing nineteen. If anyone found out that she was simply sleeping in the same room as him, she would probably be in the back of Charlie Swan’s car. And speaking of the infamous Swans, she definitely didn’t want to get into that bullshit. She was already in a complicated love triangle with her Alpha and her cousin, the werewolf didn’t need to be in another one. Not to mention he might imprint!

    Leah groaned out loud, almost throwing the folding chair on the ground. 

    Paul laughed a few feet away. “Frustrated?” He was in charge of nailing down the tents. 

    She flipped up her middle finger, going for another chair. “Bite me, Lahote.”

    “Glady.” He grinned.

    Leah almost gagged. “Disgusting prick.”

    “Bag ho.”

    “Skullfuck.”

    “Cum dumpster.”

    She stabbed the ground with another chair. “Fucktard anal flap!”

    “Has-been bitch!”

    A growl rumbled in her chest, her body urging to phase and claw his eyes out. “Find a new joke, you worthless little—”

    Sam approached them with his arms crossed. “Would you two get it together?! The last thing we need is you two biting each other’s heads off. Literally! ”

    Paul glared towards Leah, and mumbled something under his breath before storming off. “Things were better when she wasn’t here…”

    She would be lying if she said that comment didn’t hurt, even if it was from someone like Paul. She never seemed to understand why everyone in the pack hated her guts. Well, except for Seth and Jacob. But sometimes, she wondered if Jacob secretly hated her, too.

    And that hurts more than anything else.

    Sam lingered, his eyes fixating on Leah as she had her back facing towards him. She found it ridiculous that she now needed a distraction from two clueless men. 

    “Don’t you got shit to do, Sam? Other than to annoy me?” 

    He let out a sigh, stepping up to her. Leah stiffened when his arm accidentally brushed against hers. “I just wanted to say that I’m sorry.”

    Leah sucked her teeth, picking up another chair. “Do you ever run out of tired ass apologies? Honestly, Sam, it’s getting a little old.”

    “I should’ve never brought all that shit up at the funeral. Especially your father’s. It was out of line and inconsiderate.” 

    She paused, still gripping the piece of metal in her hands. Her lips tucked in, trying to avoid eye contact. People were still gathering throughout the field, and everyone on the Rez knew what went down. Leah could still hear the faint whispers and fake rumors. There was no amount of apologies that could heal the heartbreak and pure embarrassment Sam has caused. 

    “Just leave me alone, Sam. The only reason why you should ever talk to me is about pack business, unfortunately.” She started to pass him, but he grabbed onto her arm. Leah tried to ignore the fuzzy feeling in her chest ignited by his touch. She didn’t want to feel it, nor did she want to acknowledge that a piece of her was still tied to Sam Uley.

    “Leah, please. Let me fix this, one last time. Okay?” His eyes were urgent and on the verge of panicking. “There—There must be an explanation. I can talk with the elders and—and—”

    “Sam!” Leah hissed in a hushed tone. “Listen to yourself. Can you honestly stand there and say you still love me when you’re imprinted to Emily?!”

    “Yes! I can!” 

    Leah stepped back with a look of disbelief. She didn’t know if she needed to hear those words, since she was starting to think she was imagining the whole thing.  But seeing her Alpha on the verge of begging and his eyes manically wide, made it all seem too real and too painful.

    Leah lifted her head, her jaw flexed and a stern look set. She refused to seem weak, and was determined to show how much she changed from a year ago. Sam will soon receive his rude awakening; Leah will make sure of that.

    “Did you still love me when you proposed to her?” 

    His mouth snapped shut into a thin line, and his eyes dropped to the grass beneath his feet. He hesitantly took a step back, his silence speaking volumes.

    Leah chuckled dryly. “I thought so. Go to hell, Sam.” She passed him while bumping his shoulder. “And take that bitch with you.”

    Everything was set in place. Large white tents shielded people from the sun’s heat, and underneath there were large drums accompanied by songs that held stories of the tribe. Colorful regalia was worn by the dancers, as they formed circles with dances like the grass dance, the butterfly dance, and the jingle dance. Delicious food was spread across different tables, open to everyone who needed seconds or thirds. And the pack was always the ones first in line.

    Under a secluded tent, Sue helped Leah into her regalia, buttoning the last few buttons. A proud smile reached her eyes as she stepped back in awe. 

    “Awwww… Leah, you look so beautiful!” She clasped her hands together, her eyes becoming glassy.

    Leah whined, rolling her eyes. “Mom! Please don’t cry…. again!”

    She waved her off, and continued to straighten out the outfit. “I’ve been trying to get you to do this jingle dance for two years now. At least let me shed a few.”

    Leah fondled the metal coins on her dress and shrugged. “Well, I needed the distraction for today.” 

    Sue looked up, raising a brow. “From what?”

    Leah contemplated on telling her about Jake. It seemed like a wonderful opportunity to talk to someone who doesn’t share an invasive pack mind. But then remembered this was her mother, and she would probably whoop  her backside if she knew she was crushing on someone three years younger than her.

    “Just… uhm.. Sam, that’s all. He’s getting on my nerves.” It’s half of the truth, at least.

    Sue clicked her tongue, shaking her head. “That boy is starting to get on my nerves. Parading around here like he’s entitled to be in everyone's business and messin’ with my daughter’s heart.” She continued to mumble, pinning a few more metal coins on the dress.

    A slow smile crept on Leah’s lips as she looked down at her mother. She didn’t know what reaction she was expecting. Damn near the entire Rez thought Sam walked on water, especially the pack and the council. It was refreshing to know that someone was on her side.

    Sue continued on her rant, “...I don’t care if he’s the Alpha or whatever kind of wolf he is. If he messes with you again, I’ll gladly stick up my foot right up his—”

    “Mom!” They both laughed, and Leah found herself—for the first time in a while—blissfully happy in ignorance. It was nice to forget for a second of the real troubles that were knocking on their door.

    Sue straightened,the corner of her eyes still crinkled. “Ready?”

    “Ready.”

    Jacob watched Bella’s face light up as they stepped into the scene. The whole field was lit up with smiling faces and everyone on the Reservation showed up. Even a few familiar faces from Forks helped celebrate. There were multiple circles, ranging from small to massive, of colorful dancers. Jacob automatically swayed to the beats of the drums, feeling the bubbling excitement of the celebration of his people. Thoughts of Cullen flew out the window.

    He grabbed Bella’s hand with a cheeky smile. “C’mon, first things first, you have to try the food!”

    Bella giggled, struggling to keep up with his stride. He was practically dragging her to the tents. “Jake, are you ever not hungry?”

    He looked back at her with a wink. “Nope!”

    They approached a table full of food, ranging from fry bread to corn soup to  strawberry juice. Jacob subconsciously licked his lips and rubbed his hands together. Bella shook her head at him, grabbing two paper plates. 

    “Okay, Bells, before you eat anything. You have to try the Indian Taco. Literally, one of the best dishes.” Jacob suggested, already grabbing two. 

    It was a huge piece of fry bread loaded with chili, tomatoes, lettuce, shredded cheese and sour creams. Bella was a picky eater and even her mouth was watering. 

    They took a seat next to the pack, who were stuffing their faces and cracking jokes about how Quil fell during the butterfly dance. 

    “Man, I told you this dude got two left feet!” Embry cackled.

    Quil’s face reddened, although he tried to brush off the embarrassment. “Whatever, Em, I’d like to see you and your chicken legs go up there!”

    The table roared in laughter once again, as Bella laughed in the sleeve of her jacket. She leaned closer to Jake and whispered, “Where’s Leah?”

    Jacob stiffened, sipping on his juice. There was no point of whispering, the table was crowded with werewolves that could hear a mile away! 

    “Leah’s in the jingle dance circle!” Seth beamed, unaware of the sudden tension emerging. Everyone followed his finger towards Leah in a circle accompanied with other women. The corner of Jacob’s lips twitched into a grin, watching how fluid Leah’s movements were. She was perfectly in sync with the beating drums and harmonies. The jingle dress complimented her and a blinding white smile was stretched across her bronzed skin. She simply looked… beautiful. 

    “So, Bella, where’s Charlie? He usually comes to our powwows.” Seth asked, taking Jacob out of his trance. He felt the tip of his ears burn, returning to his food.

    Bella squirmed underneath the sudden attention. “Uhm, he’s backed up in cases from Seattle.”

    Jared perked up after swallowing down his third taco, “Seattle? The big city contacted him?”

    Without thinking, Bella muttered, “I wish they didn’t.”

There was a heaviness in her tone that made shadows cast on everyone’s features. They saw the hidden meaning dancing between her words, and it made their skin turn hot. They knew whatever was happening in Seattle wasn’t human.

Chapter Text

Chapter 13

a little party never hurt anybody

    It was a terrifying blur. 

    A bright burst of yellow crossed the stage. Smiles were worn on each face, a hopeful glint in their teary eyes. Their nervous fingers curl on a fresh diploma as they shake hands with teachers they’ve known their entire lives. Their lives were only beginning; doors were opening and new sights were yet to be explored. However, Bella Swan would soon cease to exist. Lost in the world full of futures and possibilities, stuck in a void of death. 

    Jacob couldn’t find the will to clap as she grabbed her diploma. The realization seeped in—slowly but surely—that this would be the last event. No college graduation, no wedding cake to be cut, no disgusting homemade videos of childbirth. Nothing but frozen promises and memories. Bella became a dead man walking.

    Jacob reluctantly swallowed the pill. There was nothing to be done—yet. He laughed at himself. He knew his stubborn optimism would be the death of him, but he knew of a time when life became drained of hope and replaced with misery. Jacob promised himself he would never go back to the time when Sarah Black left. 

    It was why he dragged himself out of bed before the birds could sing, and started to carve and whittle into small pieces of wood. His tongue stuck out in concentration. Every curve, every detail was made with certainty and delicacy. 

A little wolf was shaped in between his long fingers. Jacob smiled at his work well down, barely aware that the sun was beginning to set. He attached the charm onto a naked bracelet and placed the graduation gift into a small box. 

“How adorable.”

Jacob’s body jerked, hitting his knee underneath the desk. He winced, rubbing the sore spot. Leah stood behind him with her arms crossed, a teasing grin on her lips. The evening light peering from the window fell on the side of her face, creating a brilliant glow of warmth and elegance. It was breathtaking. More so how this girl— woman —didn’t have to do much at all to make his worries melt away. 

Breathlessly, Jacob asked, “How do you do that?”

Leah’s features twitch in confusion. Somehow that made her even more irresistible. 

The hell are you saying, Black? “Uh, h—how do you always manage to sneak up on me?”

“I’m a ninja!” Leah grinned, flopping down on his bed. He couldn’t help but realize how comfortable the sight was. He didn’t mind Leah strolling through the house, making breakfast for her, or letting her curl into a deep sleep in his bed. It felt natural, like the universe completing a puzzle piece. “Who’s the gift for? Oh wait, let me guess. Brunette? Pale? Nobody’s home upstairs?”

A chuckle escapes him when he lays next to her. “Her party’s tonight.”

“Wanna crash it?”

“ I was actually invited.”

“Okay, so let me rephrase it. I’m going to crash it.”

“HA! Yeah, right. You go into a house full of bloodsuckers? A cold day in hell.”

Leah flipped on her stomach, propping herself on her elbows. Her gaze was full of emotion. “Hell is freezing. Consider me your date!”

Jacob paused. Suddenly his words were caught in his throat, and his tongue was twisted. A date? An.. actual date? He’s never been on an actual date with anyone. He used to count the time when he, Bella, and Mike Newton went to the movies, but since that night resulted in a werewolf disaster, he returned to square one in the ‘dating’ department. 

And Leah Clearwater was definitely not Bella Swan. She was older, confident, and more defined in places that left Jacob’s heart in a frenzy. It was already unbelievable that he had a girl like Leah beside him. 

“A… date? Like…”

Leah rolled her eyes, waving a dismissal hand. “Not an actual date, Black. You’re not that lucky. But you can still pick me up, I might wear a dress, and you’ll get me a drink or two. What’d you say?”

“Uhm…well—I did already invite Quil and Embry, so—”

“Sucks for them. They’ll have to be a third wheel.”

“But—”

Leeah squinted, leaning closer to him. The tips of her hair fall on his chest. “Are you rejecting me, Black? I don’t usually resort to violence, but I’ll put you in a chokehold if you are.”

Jacob snorted. “You always resort to violence.”

“True. So you better answer fast.”

They both share a laugh, and Jacob found himself not wanting to leave at all. The bracelet sitting in the box and the invitation thrown in the corner are long forgotten. The only important thing was the sound of Leah’s laughter.

“Okay.”

Leah was never the one to hold her tongue. Life wasn’t made for the weak, and she figured being bold and fearless was the best way to survive. Yet, nothing would’ve prepared her for the aching nerves bouncing around in her stomach. 

What the hell was she thinking? Asking Jacob Black on a date? That was never the plan! Not to mention he took too long to answer—more like rejecting her. Leah cringed at the memory. His eyes darted across the room, landing on anything else but her. She could hear the frantic hammering in his chest, and see the fiddle of his fingers—

Wait.

Did she…did she make him nervous? 

Leah leaned on her bedroom door with an exasperated sigh. “Oh god.”

Over an hour, she hurried throughout the house. Her hair was still slightly damped and curled by the shower, the scent of lavender bouncing off her skin. She searched through her limited closet, skimming over various outfits. 

Red mini skirt? Too short.

Tube top? Flashing risk. 

Heels? Trying too hard.

“Gah!” Leah tossed herself on the bed. I’m overthinking this. It’s just Jacob Black. Jacob. Jake. Jakie Wakie from the fuckin’ sandbox. There’s nothing to be nervous about!

A small knock from downstairs interrupted her thoughts. Leah sat up quickly, straining her ears to hear scuffling on the porch steps. Her mother was currently down for tonight; Seth definitely had his headphones turned up; no one was expecting visitors. Jacob? Already? It wasn’t nine o’clock yet.

She quickly changed into an oversized sweatshirt and gym shorts, tossing her bath towel aside. She reached the front door with suspicion, silently hoping it wasn’t Sam coming to bark orders—literally.

But this seemed worse.

Leah tensed, her jaw clicking. “What the hell are you doing here?”

Emily took a deep breath, avoiding eye contact. Her body was rigid as her fingers anxiously tapped against the straps of her purse. 

“Can I come in? Please?”

“Go to hell, and get the hell off of my porch,” she glowered.

Emily caught the door, her eyes watering with pleading and desperation. For a moment, there was an opening. A small opportunity to care, to let herself break down her guard. 

Reluctantly, Leah stepped aside. “You have ten minutes.”

Intense silence consumed the living room. Leah’s stare grew more fierce as time ticked away. She waited for clues of the far truth. A twitch of the eye, a hitch in the breath maybe. Also, seeing Emily squirm underneath her glare became amusing.

Emily drew in a breath, and started, “Remember when we're seven? And… And you wanted the new Mary Kay doll? You begged your parents for the doll all year--Easter, Christmas, your birthday, and even New Year's.” A ghost of a smile formed. “My mom gave me one for my birthday the following year and I was so excited to show you. But then… the look on your face… you were so heartbroken . Almost felt betrayed in a way. So… When your birthday came, I wrapped up my Mary Kay and made it seem like your mom gave it to you. Funny how a doll made us jump over the moon back then…” 

Emily trailed off, her gaze falling into her lap. And suddenly, there was a grip latched onto Leah’s heart. Tugging it was down memory lane. From all the hate and despair, it was easy to forget the years Emily and her shared. The laughs, the tears, and trust. If only it was that easy to fall back into a state of forget and forgive. 

The silence started to creep back in but was soon interrupted by a snicker.

“I'm sorry, but was that bullshit childhood story supposed to make everything better?” Leah scoffed. “Listen, if you're wasting my time, then get the hell out of my house. I have somewhere more important to be in an hour, and I still don't know what I should wear.”

Leah lifted and made her way to the front door until Emily shouted, “Wait! Please, just-- I’m sorry, Leah!”

She paused. Her fingertips are still grazing on the cold doorknob. The unwavering pain in Emily’s voice sent tremors down her spine. Slowly, she turned back, seeing the shed tears roll down Emily’s face.

“I… This—This wasn’t supposed to happen! Not you or me! Like… werewolves and vampires, Leah? It’s fucking crazy and there’s nothing I—or anybody—could do about it.”

Leah charged forward, her teeth gritted. “ You could have! You could’ve just said no. But you were just so desperate for love that betraying me was nothing to you.”

“You think I had a choice?” Emily scoffed. A hidden look of disdain coming through the cracks. “I wanted to say no, but I needed to say yes. Every fiber in my body, every ounce of blood in my veins needed to be with Sam, and I didn’t ask for that! The imprint is beyond me, Sam, and you! And unfortunately… we can’t do anything about that either.”

The truth was something people ask for but never really want. Leah expected a betrayal confession. That secretly her cousin had it out for all along, and that the entire friendship was a lie. But somehow, this was worse. Knowing that neither Sam nor Emily had a full conscience choice in this made her head pound.

“You could’ve fought it,” Leah sniffed.

“I tried . And I’ve got the scars to prove it.”

A sharp gasp left her. Leah’s eyes trailed every long line down Emily’s face. A brutal bear attack . More lies, more coverups. 

“He… he did this to you, Emily—why would you cover for him?”

Emily shook her head, regret pulling at her features. “I was standing too close and he got angry.”

Leah grabbed her shoulders. “That’s not an excuse! He still hurt you, he did this!”

Abruptly, Emily shoved her hands away. Anger and agony swirled underneath her lashes, mixing in with unshed tears. “It doesn’t matter, does it? Nothing matters much around here anymore. You wanted the truth, and there it is. I just… I need my best friend back. Because in a world full of monsters, the only thing we have left is family.”

Leah searched for more. A hidden lie, a fracture in the truth. But everything that poured from Emily’s words was raw. For the first time in months, they found a common ground. The pain that follows choices. 

And Leah still had her right to choose. “I’m sorry. I just… I need some time.”

Emily tucked in her lips, swiftly wiping away her tears. She made her way out the door, entering the chill of the night. Before the door closed, her small voice twisted with the wind.

“Wearing the butterfly dress I gave you. It was always your favorite.” 

The corners of Leah’s lips were upturned. A tear fell down her cheek. “Goodbye, Emily.”

Parked outside of Leah Clearwater’s house with first date jitters was surreal. Yet, it wasn’t even a first date. Especially with Quil and Embry in the backseat while 50 Cent blasted through the speakers. The car rocked with the two of them horribly rapping along. Jacob couldn’t even think about what he was going to say when Leah came out. Does he say how pretty she looks? Beautiful, maybe? 

What if she doesn't? Doesn’t matter, say it anyway.

The front door opened, and Jacob quickly turned down the music, earning a groan of complaints. 

Quil smacked his teeth. “Aww, whatcha do that for?” 

“Because Leah is coming, and I can’t hear myself think.” 

Embry furrowed his eyebrows, bringing himself forward in between the two front seats. “Is this why we had to sit in the back? You always let me sit shotgun!” 

Jacob grabbed his face, pushing him back to his seat. “As if I would let Leah sit next to Quil. I would rather not plan his funeral.”

“I could take her,” he mumbled.

Before another word, Leah slid through the passenger seat, her nose scrunched. “Goddamn, it smells like wet pubes in here—Quil, forget to shower again?” 

Quil deadpanned, his lips pursed together while Embry cackled obnoxiously. Before the car took off, there was another dip in the car with the back door slamming shut. Jacob glanced behind his seat only to see Leah’s little brother.

“ Seth ?! The hell are you doing?” 

“Lee said I come!” Seth responded with a wide smile, eagerness in his voice, and childish excitement in his eyes.

Leah simply rolled her eyes. “He blackmailed me, the little punk. And besides, the more the merrier, right?” Her tone was sarcastic, but there was an underlying message in between those lines, that only both of them could sense.

Wish it was just the two of us… Jacob wanted to say. But there were too many ears, eyes, and questions that he still couldn’t answer. 

While the five shapeshifters traveled through the night, the reservation passing them by, meaningless chatter surrounds them. Quil teased Seth about his new crush at school, as a result, Seth threatened to throw him out of the open window. Leah laughed at the squabble and nearly made Jacob drive off the road. It was impossible to ignore the beauty of her laugh, and he was caught marveling at her smile. Embry gave them both a suspicious glance, creating an unknowing tension. 

The Cullen house faded into view. Multi-colored lanterns surrounded the mansion, illuminating the dozens of cars parked along the hidden road. Echoes of music and partygoers trailed from the house. Nothing you would expect from the coven full of bloodthirsty vampires. 

Quil's nose wrinkled. “I can already smell them.”

Jacob huffed, parking the car. “Hold your breath. We’re going into the lion’s den.”

They walked up the house, the shoulders squared and small tremors running up and down their backs. Every fiber in their body tells them to rip open the nearest vampire, but this wasn’t the time. Tonight was just a night—not a war. 

Jacob doesn’t remember the last time he was allowed to be a teenager. To make impulsive decisions, to convince himself that youth was infinite and that not even death could touch him. It was strange. He’s only sixteen, but yet, he felt like sixty. 

“Why do you look like a chaperone, instead of a high schooler?” Leah whispered in his ear. His chest tightened as he went rigid. He turned around, noticing how dangerously close she was. 

He managed to hide his nerves with an awkward laugh. “Kind of am. I’m sure Seth and the others are itching to down whatever is in the punch bowl.”

Leah waved a hand, taking a sip out of her cup. “Don’t worry about them. I threatened to staple their arms together if Seth drank anything but Sprite.”

Jacob nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. He looked down, playing with the gift box in his hands. His plan originally was just to come to this party, have Embry and Quil as backup, and present Bella with her gift, then leave. But now he had an outrageously beautiful girl in front of him making him doubt every decision he has made. Suddenly, life became a whole lot more complicated.

Because he has fallen for Leah Clearwater. 

“Jake, you made it!” 

Through a sea full of people, Bella Swan emerged with a smile and open arms. He snapped out of his overwhelming thoughts and hugged her back, but it didn’t feel as warm as before. He felt frozen in time. As if Leah Clearwater has been his entire life on pause.

 “H—Hey, Bells! Uhm, congrats. You know, graduating and all…” Jacob awkwardly separated from the hug, presenting the small box. Bella’s eyebrows shot up, hesitating to grab it. 

“You got something? Jake… you didn’t have to.”

“Just open it.”

While Bella fumbles trying to open the box, he glanced at his side, almost surprised that Leah was still here. Her stance turned awkward, as she looked anywhere but here. Their eyes met, and realization passed through the both of them. The air became denser and harder to breathe. 

“Wow! Did—Did you make this yourself?” Bella awed over the charm bracelet, unaware of the tension.

Jacob forced a smile, stuffing his hands in his pockets. “Yeah—well, I made the wolf charm. Do you like it?”

She smiled warmly, looking up to him. “Of course, I do. Thank you, Jake.” 

Finally, she noticed Leah, and a frown fell on her lips. She looked between them, shifting uncomfortably. It was clear tonight. The twisted longing, the desire looming above, and jealousy creeping along the walls that could talk. 

“Leah. Didn’t know you were coming.”

“Problem?” Leah quirked a brow.

“Not at all.”

“Good.”

Bella shared a look with Jacob, then disappeared into the crowd. Mutual silence full on the two, accompanied by a new song blasting through the speakers. 

Before Leah could speak, Jacob blurted, “Wanna dance?”

“W—What?” Leah stammered. 

“I want to dance with you. Can I?”

A blush spread across her cheeks as she tossed her drink away. She took his hand, leading him into the bustling crowd. “You’re such a dork, Black.”

They shifted through the wild bodies, sweat coated their skin as they cheered at the top of their lungs. Amid the chaos, Jacob could only notice the velvet, mini black dress hugging her frame. The spaghetti straps revealed her shoulders and he found himself restraining from kissing them. 

The slowed beat of the song drew them closer together. Leah’s back pressed on his chest while her hips swayed side to side. His hands snaked their way around her, allowing his body to follow her rhythm. He lowered his head down the crook of her neck, his lips brushed her ear. Leah’s breathing hitched in surprise, her back arching slightly at the sensation of his breath grazing her exposed skin. 

“Jacob—”

“Something changed, Leah. So… tell me, what do you feel?” he whispered. 

Their surroundings became blurred as mind-boggling heat washed over them. With a shuddering breath, Leah tilted her head, exposing her neck. Her eyes flutter close as she choked out a gasp once warm lips press against her skin. 

“I feel you.”

The reaction stirred something inside Jacob. The longing buried inside started to boil over. He trailed agonizingly slow kisses down her neck, finding the spot that made a quiet moan fall from her lips. Leah dragged his hands away from her waist, his fingertips grazing the ridges of her ribs and the smooth surface of velvet. Entwining their fingers, Jacob’s hands cupped her breast. It was the thrill of it all. Hidden in a tall, dark crowd, allowing their hands to roam free.

Their lips lingered, centimeters apart. Noses brushing together, foreheads resting on the other. The truth was underlying—bold and true as the intensity of their stare grew. 

But everything must come to an end.

For a distracting moment, Jacob’s eyes flickered away from Leah’s and saw Bella in the distance. She stood on the stairs, accompanied by that pixie vampire. Their expressions are full of worry and conflict; slight horror makes Bella’s eyes widen. A cold shudder passed through him, reminding him of where he stood. The lion’s den.

“Something’s wrong,” he muttered. Leah snapped out of it as he dropped his hands. She followed his glare and tensed up as well. 

Her tone turned grave. “I’ll go get the others.”

If Leah was told she would be in a room full of werewolves and vampires talking about an upcoming vampire battle, she would’ve called them psycho. But this was her life, and there was nothing to do about it. Unlike some things.

She could still feel Jacob’s lingering touch. The sensations traveled through her body like crackling electricity. She’s forgotten what that felt like—to be touched, cherished. 

Her braided hair was unraveled and now laid over her shoulder, hiding any suspicious red marks. Much rather avoid any talks with her fourteen-year-old brother. 

“They’ll be here in four days.” The tiniest vampire, Alice, spoke.

The vampire doctor solemnly shook his head. “This could turn into a bloodbath.”

“There aren’t enough of us to protect this town,” the southern vampire muttered. 

Jacob looked between each vamp, his brows furrowing. “Someone’s going to attack Forks?”

They all ignored him, their talking continuing in sharp whispers and mutters. The blatant disrespect made Jacob’s jaw click and fistball. The desire to tear their heads from their shoulders was getting stronger with each passing second. Leah shared a look with Embry, Quil, and Seth. Their annoyance was rising, and they too were itching to phase. 

“Only the Volturi could know how Alice’s gift works. Aro would have found out when he read Alice’s mind…”

“Either way, the army is coming and our odds aren’t good.”

“ What fucking army ?” Jacob’s voice was sharp. A voice that would surely belong to Sam. 

The room stills, and the rest of the pack straights and instinctively steps closer to him. Leah couldn’t hide her smirk knowing it was the Alpha gene doing its magical work. 

Carlise sighs. “Our kind. Newborns.”

“How many?” Quil spoke.

“Enough.”

Embry crossed his arms. “What are they after?”

Alice gestured to Bella, who practically curled herself into Edward’s side. As if there was a magnet forcing them together. A needy impulse. 

“They were passing Bella’s scent around, a red blouse—”

Leah scoffed, retreating to her corner. “Of course, they’re coming for Bella.”

“What the hell does this mean?” Jacob focused on the doctor, not wasting his breath on the others. 

With an anguished expression, Carlisle said, “It means an ugly fight. With lives lost.”

The weight lands heavy. Each person shares a look of worry, searching for reassurance of a better way. But it was inevitable. War is coming.

Jacob looks back at his pack members. He drinks in the memory; every laughter, every embrace, all of the tears. This was his family, and he had to protect them no matter what. 

“Okay. We’re in.”

“No!” Bella blurted. Her body shifted away from Edward. “You’ll get yourselves killed, no way.”

“For fuck sakes, Bella, this is what we’re made for,” Leah snapped.

Jacob steps in. “And we’re not asking for permission.” 

They both share a look, a silent agreement passes through them. Always have each other's back. 

“You believe Sam will agree to some kind of… understanding?” Carlisle queried. 

The mention of his name sent waves of aggravation over him. There was a nagging urge inside of him that wanted to claw into Sam, to make him witness what real power was. And honestly, that terrified him. 

“He’s gonna have to. We happen to live here, too.”

 Carlise turned to the southern vamp. “Jasper?”

“They’ll give us the numbers—” he scrutinized each of them. “—the newborns won’t know werewolves even exist. We’ll have an edge.”

The doctor nods. “We’ll have to coordinate—”

“Carlisle, don't! They’re gonna get hurt,” Bella distressed. 

“—fighting newborns requires knowledge that Jasper possesses. We were already planning a strategic meeting. You’re welcome to join.”

A smirk appeared on Jake’s face. “Name the time and place.”

Free from the stench of spiked punch and vampire, Leah wrapped herself in an oversize t-shirt she stole from Jacob’s closet. Her phone pressed tightly to the side of her face as a smooth voice comforted her. A goofy smile on her lips, and her heart ridiculously thudded against her chest but she didn’t mind it. 

She didn’t mind falling for Jacob Black.

“A vampire army… this world is entirely fucked up.” 

A giggle escaped her. “Yeah. Hell on Earth looks like it. 

Beats of silence passed through the phone, and for a second she thought he fell asleep. But the hesitant breath pulled her back. 

“Leah… what—uhm… about tonight—”

She cleared her throat. “We don’t… we don’t have to make it weird, Jake.”

“I know, I know. I just… I liked it.”

Leah caught her lip in between her teeth, squirm underneath her sheets. The memory of tonight was forever implanted in her mind. She prayed to the Spirits that she wouldn't reveal it in the pack's mind. However, the reaction from Sam would be priceless.

“I liked it, too.”

It was so easy—too easy. To act like this isn't doomed from the start. Maybe if the world existed without monsters and impending doom. But obstacles, tall as mountains, stood in between them. One of them would be imprinted, sooner or later. Tomorrow, or two months from now. But for right now, pretending was enough.

Chapter Text

Chapter 14

whatcha thinkin’ about?

    Leah glared at the cellphone. Turmoil twisting in her mind, her leg shook with anxiety. It shouldn’t be that hard, why she was stressing about a simple phone call. Start with a simple, ‘Hi! How have you been? That’s good,’ like every other generic human being. Even if you haven't seen Rachel Black since she left. 

    She was running out of options. The only people she knew were a part of the pack in some kind of way. The boys could barely stand her, except for Jacob and Seth. Emily was out of the equation, even after their little heart-to-heart yesterday. And she would rather die than talk to Sam about boy troubles. 

    Leah remembered the days where she would curl up in the twin’s bed, gossiping about the boys in the Rez, or talking about how they’re finally growing out of their training bras. Out of the three of them, Rachel and Leah were the closest. A contrast from her twin, Rachel was the most emotional available and always knew what to say and when to say it. Becca knew how to have fun and make hard struggles feel worth it in the end. Having the both of them, Leah didn’t find it necessary to have any other friends.

    But the death of their mother drove them out of town, choosing to forget who they left behind. Leah tried to understand, to not hold a grudge against the only friends she had, but as time passed, the resentment followed. 

    So, the heavy hesitation was hard to wave away, but soon enough the cellphone was in her grasp and the number was dialed. By the third ring, a nostalgic voice spilled through the speaker, and a surprising smile spread across Leah’s face. 

    “Rach! Hey… Uhm, how are you?”

    A few beats of silence pass, making Leah’s nerves grow. “Leah? Leah Clearwater? Holy shit! Hi! Oh my god, it’s so glad to hear your voice, Lee Lee.”

    “You could’ve called,” Leah mumbled. An awkward silence followed, but Rachel was good at those, she always has been. 

    Rachel sighed, and Leah imagined her index finger twirling the phone cord. “I know, and I’m sorry. I… I shouldn’t have left like that. And I’m so so sorry that I couldn’t make it to the funeral. Midterms hit hard and I—” she cut herself off, regret deep in her voice. “I should’ve called…”

    The apology was genuine, and Leah felt it run through her bones. It started to aggravate her with how much emotional intake that’s been happening the past month or so. She longed for the days when she only cried to the movie Titanic . 

    “I get it, Rachel,” She rasped. “Losing Sarah was a hard pill to swallow around here, and until now, I couldn’t imagine what that felt like.” When it came down to it, Rachel and Rebecca were terrified . To come back home that no longer felt like a home, to only be burdened by the ghost of their mother. And it’s the fear and grief that make them selfish. 

    Rachel sniffed a few times before responding with a more upbeat tone. “So, why did you call? Is everything alright?”

    The uneasy nerves crept back in. “Oh… Uhm, it’s nothing, really.”

    “Leah, spit it out.”

    “Fine, fine. It’s…” Leah screwed her eyes shut, forcing the words out. “It’s about your brother.”

    A long silence passed, and for a second, Leah thought she hung up. But then Rachel gasped sharply and squealed. 

    “Oh. My. God. You bitch! You and Jake?! Ha! I can honestly say I did not see that coming.”

    Well, at least she isn’t grossed out. “Yeah, that makes two of us. I mean… there’s not an ‘us’. It’s complicated.”

    “Why? Is this about Sam?”

    Leah tried not to growl through the phone. She was growing sick of everyone assuming everything was about Sam. Ever since she’s gotten closer to Jacob, the further Sam was being pushed back in her mind. Although his latest confessions have been on an irritating loop. 

    “No, no. It’s more than that. Jake has been… surprisingly great. All these years, he’s always been your annoying little brother, but now—ugh, it sounds weird, doesn’t it? It’s definitely weird.”

    Rachel giggled. “It’s not that weird. Granted, you are nearly three years older than him.”

    Leah groaned, sinking further into the living room couch. I grateful that no one else was in the house to witness this. 

    “How are you so cool with this?”

    “Look, I’ve known Jake to be my little brother all my life. The brat that put a worm in my hair when I was little. But I also know that he’s one of the most compassionate people I know, and with that, he’s a little bit more mature— a little, ” she laughed at another memory. “And I know he’s strong, sometimes strong when he doesn’t need to be. He was only a kid when… mom died. And yet, me and Becca were the ones that escaped, running for the hills. Leaving him to take care of dad is one of the many regrets I have. 

“Jacob doesn’t know when to take a breath, to let himself relax. And you don’t know when to ask for help. I’m positive both of you will balance and support each other.”

Rachel’s words sunk in, and Leah hung onto every word. She never realized how much Jacob helped her recently. He didn’t even have to try and she felt tension roll off her shoulders. The future seemed hopeful when he was around. 

Leah didn’t realize the growing grin on her lips, and it started to feel like high school again. Giddy love without thinking about the consequences, and that was terrifying.

There was one huge consequence about jumping in head first, and unfortunately, Leah couldn’t tell Rachel about imprinting.

“Thanks, Rach, I really needed to hear this.”

“Anytime, and I mean it.”

Jacob was losing his mind.

Tonight’s events were weighing heavily on him as he stepped inside. He had no idea how he got in the middle of a vampire war and ended up allying with the bloodsuckers bastards all in one night. Although that was the highlight of the night, something else was itching in his mind. Her scent was still floating under his nose, and he was hypnotized by the memory while he floated towards the bathroom. 

Jacob didn’t know what changed, what suddenly snapped. But his surroundings shifted. Everything smelled like her, everything sounded like her, everything reminded him of Leah Clearwater. 

He felt the steamy hot water beat down on his naked skin, unable to control his thoughts. It was an unstoppable frenzy. For months he only had one girl on his mind and she was a pale, awkward brunette. But Leah was just… 

Everything about her was extraordinary. The way her walk spoke volumes of confidence, her hair always ends up widely spread across her pillows in the morning; she’s never afraid to speak her mind and she’s always honest, no matter how much it hurts; and the fucking way she moved her body against him….

“ Shit,” Jacob hissed, his skin ablaze. A familiar throb made his breathing quicken. Faded images of a vulnerable Leah and her touch surfaced in his mind. He wished to take the depictions apart and bring them into this duller reality.  Suddenly the shower felt too small for his rushing thoughts and his needs were overwhelming. 

Before he could stop his train of thought, his palm slid down his body and past his hips until fingers curled around his dick. The pressure was welcomed with a relieved sigh, the sensation spiking scalding heat through his spine. He was no stranger to this but now he was picturing Leah, and it was a mind-numbing feeling. 

He pumped himself faster at the mere thought of the ghost of her touch weaving down his skin. He thought of the way her lips would feel against him, what she would whisper into his ear. His heart pounded just wondering how she would sound if Jacob was touching her, too. In an attempt to muffle his whimpers, he bit down on his bottom lip, almost tearing the soft flesh. His forearm came up to press against the shower wall where he balanced his weight. Jacob let out a satisfied huff and began to rock his hips forward into his hand. Little gasps and hiccups of moans slipped past his lips. Everything was becoming hazy as his body squirmed underneath the steamy shower head. He was so close. 

Imaginary echoes of Leah’s moans made him pant out her name. His grip got tighter and faster. What if… He began to imagine Leah here with him down on her knees. Her long lashes fluttering to keep her eyes on him—

Jacob smacked a hand over his mouth as his hot release spilled all over his hand, running down his thighs. His moans were muffled while his eyes rolled. He continued to stroke himself, riding out his high. A lazy smile curved his lips until a loud knock on the door almost made him jump out of his skin. 

He cleared his throat and put both of his hands under the now lukewarm water. “Uh—Uh… ye-yeah?” His voice was octave higher and he could still feel his body pulsating. 

“I’m going to order some pizza! Sausage or pepperoni?” 

Jacob cringed, his cheeks flushed red. “Uhm… just—just get whatever, Dad, aight?”

“Okay, and hurry up with that shower. We have bills, y’know!” 

“This is how it’s gonna go: stay phased the entire time, complete focus, and stay calm .”

Sam’s orders rung through the entire pack and the crisp early morning air. They formed a half-circle in the back of Sam’s backyard, the rising sun cast shadows on their sepia brown skin. Their shoulders square, bodies stiff with tension. It’s been a while since they shared the pack mind, and it’s also been a while since they stood in front of bloodsuckers. And this was the first time they had to stand in front of vampires and not tear them apart. This alliance was going to be difficult and against their instinct. 

But that’s not what Jacob and Leah were worried about.

The past few days have been intense and the euphoric buzz lingered from the party two nights ago. Leah stole a few glances at him as Sam continued with instructions. He stood next to Embry and Quil, his jaw set and a determined glare in his eyes. And what beautiful eyes they were…

Stop! Leah cursed mentally. Out of everyone else, she mastered the art of being hidden in the pack mind, making herself small as everyone’s thoughts tumbled over hers. But the thought of Jacob Black was loud and clear, and she was dreading this meeting. 

She looked at him again, silently hoping he would look at her back. Before giving up, his eyes found hers. It was so quick, she could’ve missed it. A small smile and adorable blush surfaced on his face, and Leah’s heart warmed. 

Everything will be okay. 

The pack mind was hectic. Complaints and worries mixed with unfiltered jokes. Paul thought this was a waste of time, all to protect some pathetic white girl. That earned a threat or two from Jacob. Jared was irritated that he barely had any time to be with his imprint, Kim. Quil was a little too eager to be in the presence of vampires; he was quickly reminded that we couldn’t kill them—yet. Embry was worried about his mom waking up to see his bed empty, again . And Seth was exhausted and whined about the time of the day. The only people with a straight focus and a clear mind were Sam, Leah, and Jacob. Sam had no choice, or no one would get shit done, and Leah and Jacob needed their thoughts to stay hidden or hell would break loose.

Once they got to the clearing, the smell of bleach mixed with sugar crashed into their noses. It sent a wave of shock through the pack, and they almost abandoned the original plan. The underlying urge to rip their heads off and watch it burn in a golden fire was becoming overwhelming. But orders from Sam kept them grounded. 

Each Cullen kept their eyes on them, their striking eyes trained on them as if they expected an attack. The feeling was mutual. No matter what common ground they might have, they’ll always be enemies.

And there stood Bella Swan, inserting herself in supernatural business, once again. Leah almost growls but keeps it at bay. The girl even had the nerve to greet Jake, and only him. Fucking rude.

Jealousy isn’t a good color on you, Clearwater, Paul mentally snickered.

Leah freezes, trembling with anger. She couldn’t believe she let her wall crumble like that! Over Bella? Ridiculous.

Don’t make me embarrass you in front of these vamps, Lahote. She snapped back. Before Paul could come up with another comeback, Sam silenced them both. 

“Will you translate?” The oldest vamp spoke to Edward. Even standing in front of eight giant wolves, he stood with ease. When he stepped up, Sam also stepped forward. 

Edward spoke, reading Sam’s mind. “He says they’ll watch and listen, but that’s the most we can ask of their self-control.”

“That will be fine. Jasper is experienced when it comes to newborns. He’ll teach us how to defeat them.”

How do these ‘newborns’ differ from us? Sam thought. 

“Their human blood lingers in their tissues, making them a great deal stronger than us. Our kind is never more physically powerful than in our first several months of this life.”

A small dose of fear goes through the pack, coming from Jacob. But his mind was heavily guarded, not risking anything. 

Carlisle nods to Jasper to take over, the other blonde vamp uncomfortable with both the wolves and the attention but steps forward anyway. 

“Carlisle’s right. That’s why newborns are created for armies.”

Armies? I’m sorry, did he just say armies? Quil’s thoughts became uneasy. 

Edward smirked. “One of them—Quil—wants to know how many vampires make up an army. He seems to be… nervous by the term.”

If it’s possible for a wolf to look embarrassed, Quil does.

Jasper laughs, “‘Army’ is more of an expression. They’re not in the thousands like a human army, but no human army could stand against them. They’re untrained, undisciplined, and their thirst will make them volatile. However, that can work in our favor.” 

He moves to the center of the field of a demonstration, a sense of control and demand coming over him. With their guard still up, the pack sat in the grass to observe. 

“The two most important things to remember are first, never let them get their arms around you. They’ll crush you instantly. Second, never go for the obvious kill,” his tone turned dark with a warning. “they’ll be ready for that. And you will lose.”

He turned to the biggest vampire, Emmett. Leah remembered him from the ravines, and a rumble went through her from the memory. 

“Don’t hold back.”

With a cocky grin, Emmett said, “Not in my nature.”

The fighting sequence was a blur, and if you didn’t have supernatural sight, you would’ve missed the whole thing. Amidst the fighting, Jasper stated, “You have to come at them from the side, and keep moving. Never stop moving.”

They watched each vampire move gracefully and swiftly across the field. Strategic and bold. Jacob took note of this. It wouldn’t hurt to apply this type of technique to their regular training. 

Favoring the enemy already? Swan’s rubbing off on you, Paul quipped.

For fuck’s sake, are you incapable of ever shutting the fuck up? Jacob was exasperated.

Jared accidentally added This is kind of Jacob’s fault we’re here….

Excuse me?!

You heard him, Black! You couldn’t help but be Captain-Save-A-Hoe because of your unhealthy obsession with Bella. And nowwwww, we’re all forced to fight in a war that’s none of our business.

Sam huffed, tired of all the bickering. Either way, if the Cullens didn’t have enough help, the newborns could have possibly won and come to the Rez. Unless you want a bloodbath across the entire Olympic Peninsula, I would consider yourself grateful.

Grateful? Paul snorted if a wolf even could do that. Grateful for this brat and his bitchy partner in crime?

Why the fuck am I this? Leah seethed. 

I’m sorry, aren't you always?

Seth whimpered, digging his face further into the grass. We should’ve never gone to that party…

The party.

It was the magic word to unleash the memory and there wasn’t enough willpower or time to stop it. The image of Leah against Jacob, hidden in a heated crowd of dancing bodies, flitted through the pack mind. And as quick as it came, quick as it went.

But didn’t stop the racing thoughts that followed.

What the hell was that?! Sam snarled. 

The sudden uproar grabbed the Cullens attention. They stood straight, ready to spring if need be. But it became clear that the aggression wasn’t towards them but among the wolf pack. 

Woah, Woah so are y'all a thing now?

I don’t know how I feel about this.

Wait, Seth was invited to this party but not the rest of us?!

Fucking hell, Seth.

Sorry!

Guys! Guys! It wasn’t like that… right, Jake? Embry tried to defend his friend, but he was met with radio silence. 

Now, this is quality entertainment. Quil laughed. 

Looks like someone has a kink for Alphas.

Leah snapped her jaws at Paul for that last comment, and every other idiotic comment he’s made for the past hour. It was nobody's business, especially not Sam. 

And unsurprisingly, Sam’s anger was radiating above us all. It only triggered Leah’s temper.

Are you seriously fucking upset, right now, Sam?

I have every right to be—

—you have no right—

—this is MY pack, Leah!—

—FOR NOW.

The bold statement laid bare in everyone’s mind. The vampires in front of them are long forgotten. Their heated argument only allowed the intense, fleeting moments of confessions to rise to the surface. Even Paul was stunned to silence, as he didn’t predict this abrupt turn. From Sam pushing Leah to the floor to Harry’s funeral, the whole pack witnessed it all. 

Before another thought, Jacob phased out. His shorts quickly pulled on and stepped away from them. Tremors passed through his hands as he flexed them over and over. The urge to challenge his Alpha was growing stronger and the way Sam felt like he had some sort of claim on Leah made it worse. 

Jacob made his way to the other side of the field. The Cullens watched him carefully as he took a seat next to Bella. Confusion spread across her face, while she hesitated to ask what happened. 

“What happened—”

“Don’t worry about it,” Jacob snapped, ending the conversation. 

The training resumed, and the pack mind went eerily quiet. Not because secrets unraveled before their eyes or the way Jacob sat alongside the enemies. But it was because Sam ordered everyone to stay phased. 

For the first time, an Alpha Order was disobeyed. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 15

Before the Storm

Leah and Jacob have mastered the art of blissful ignorance.

Neither one of them needed (or wanted) to say anything to express the confusion that took place within the pack, or themselves. Nor the foreboding danger that would soon take place a night from now. The little bubble they created within the walls of Leah’s bedroom, accompanied by store-bought brownies, became their little escape.

“What’s one thing you never shared with anyone—not even in the pack mind.” Jacob tried to talk through the mouthful of chocolate.

“That is such a cliche question!”

“Answer it, anyway,” he grinned.

Leah looked up to the ceiling, shifting on the hard floor. “Okay, uhm… I can pop my thumb out of its socket.”

He paused mid-chew, scanning her over. “You’re lying.”

She raised a brow, and held up her palm, jutting out her left thumb out of place. It looked broken and pulled in an awkward position, earning a disgusted groan from Jacob. Although he was intrigued.

“What about you? Any weird talents?”

He took a moment, then said, “I don’t get dizzy.”

Leah took another brownie and scoffed. “Liar! Everyone gets dizzy.”

“Nope, not me. One time, I annoyed the shit out of Becca—as usual—so she picked me up and spun me around really fast, trying to make me throw up, but it never worked.”

“Weirdo.”

“Says the girl that can break and unbreak her thumbs.”

Laughter consumed them, as the clock ticked on. Their backs leaned on the side of Leah’s bed, their long legs spread out on top of her fluffy rug. It was past midnight, their patrols long gone, and the house filled with quiet snores and stifled giggles. It’s the calm before the storm as later today, they will have to face everyone.

“If you weren’t… this , what would you be?”

Her question lingered in the air, silence accompanying it. 

“I don’t know…” Jacob mumbled, no longer hungry. “Before this , I just wanted to hang out with Embry and Quil, and build motorbikes for a stupid crush. But, I always did like to fix things.”

“Like… a mechanic?”

Jacob’s face lit up. “Yeah! Like that! Imagine me fixin’ up a Bugatti or a classic Cadillac. I break apart cars, bikes, you name it, just for the helluva it. Might as well make some cash whilst doing so.”

“I’d be your number one customer.”

“That’d be something to look forward to every day.”

A blush surfaced to her cheeks as she nudged him away.

“I remember when we were little,” his lips curved into a half-smile. “You used to go around the Rez with a tutu. Claiming you were gonna be the best Quileute dancer in the world.”

Leah mirrored his nostalgic expression, silently wishing for that kind of naivety again. 

“Is that something you still want to do? Dance?”

She shook her head, strands of hair falling over her shoulders. “ God , I thought I could do anything. I took lessons but it was nothing compared to the big cities, but Ma and Dad could never afford it. I was mostly stuck with old VCR tapes and wishful thinking. Sooner or later, I grew up and realized that adulthood doesn’t have time for dreams.”

“That’s not true.”

She looked at him, her knees pulled to her chest. He intently looked her over, as if reading a cheat code she couldn’t see. 

“Do you still dream?”

“You have to sleep, to dream.”

His stare became far. Getting sucked into unwanted thoughts—enough to keep him up for the rest of the night for sure. All he can see behind his eyes were terror foaming at the mouths, blood on their hands, and screams of innocents. 

“C’mere,” Leah cooed. Before Jacob could protest, she grabbed his hand and led him on top of the bed. She made a point to unravel the blankets and comforter, patting a spot for him. He rolled his eyes playfully and joined her immediately. 

“Now,” she placed her palms over his face, attempting to smooth away any stress and worries from his mind. “Forget everything. For once in your life, breathe.”

He inhaled deeply, blessed with the scent of Leah—jasmine and pine cones. A desire to nestle his face into the crook of her neck and hold her there forever. God , was he lucky to have to be underneath her right now.

He finally exhaled, a weight lifting from him. The tension will have to wait a few more hours.

“Now, sleep! You’re gonna need it.” Unexpectedly, she kissed his shoulder, sending a thrill through him. He tried to find the will to open his eyes fully and find her soft, full lips in the darkness. But instead, he fell into a well-deserved peace.

Early morning glossed over the sky with a crisp breeze ruffling through the trees. Jacob welcomed the feeling and scenery. However, nature could never envelop him like Leah last night. He remembered at some point his arms found their way wrapped around her torso, bringing their bodies closer. They fit perfectly.

Lost in his memories, he barely notices three figures approaching from the other end of the field. Their voices became more clear, dampening his good mood. His ears perked up at pieces of the conversation.

“You’re not fighting? What, you pull a muscle or somethin’?” He mocked.

Bella sighed. “He’s doing it for me, okay?”

“Whatever. Just tell me the plan.”

The creepiest vampire—Jasper—stepped forward and gestured to the open field. “This field will give us an advantage. We’ll lure the newborns with Bella’s scent.”

“Edward and I are going to a campsite,” Bella chirped. “But even if he carries me, they’ll pick up on our scents.”

Edward grimaced. “Your smell, however, is revolting.”

“Just like your dull personality—”

“—He means , your scent will mask mine if you carry me.”

For the first time, Jacob hesitated. Holding, or even being around, Bella seemed wrong. Every time she’s around, Leah’s face appears, and he finds himself second-guessing.

“Sure.” He forced a smile. 

Edward scrutinized him, confusion and amusement mixed with his repulsed expression. The shapeshifter noticed and made a point to think of every insult in the book. 

The bloodsucker finally nods and Bella extends her arms to Jacob, being scooped up in the process. 

“Eau de wolf, comin’ up!”

Edward glared. “Run.”

Fuck you. 

In a blur of speed, they maneuver through the trees. The sounds of nature wisps through their ears, while their hearts thud with anxiety. The two teens didn’t know whether it was because of the proximity, the exhilaration through the woods, or the battle creeping along the hours. An exhale of relief escapes them as they make their way back to the field. 

Jacob hastily placed Bella back on her two feet. She staggered at the quick motion, scrunching her face confusingly. Leaves crunched beneath their feet, filling in the awkward silence—something that happened frequently with them. 

“Are you still fighting?” Her voice is quiet and hesitant. Jacob almost ignores her. 

“Of course. It’s not like I have much of a choice. Since I let Sam be alpha, I have to live with the shots he calls.” 

“Wait—you let Sam be Alpha?”

Jacob tensed, wishing they could walk in silence. Alphas are the very last thing he wanted to talk about. He could practically feel the beating of pressure onto his shoulders. It was only a matter of time—his wolf demanded it. 

“Technically, I was supposed to be Alpha,” he sighed. “It’s a whole lineage thing, it’s ridiculous. I am a direct line from the first Alpha Male—Taha Aki. Also, taking the role came with being Chief. When I shifted, Sam offered the position, but I turned it down.”

Bella squinted. “You’re joking.”

“I didn’t want to be in a pack. Why would I be its leader?” 

She looked at him, a new emotion glossing over her eyes. Pride, maybe? A small smile fell on Jacob’s lips at the sight. They were slowly falling back into step.

“ Wow. Chief Jacob! Has a nice ring to it, yeah?”

Jacob playfully scoffed, pushing her away. “Yeah, opted out. We all have choices, remember?”

Bella’s grin dimmed and went back to shuffling her feet. “Jake, we talked about this—”

“Have we?” He snapped. The tension settled in as he caught himself. “I think we’ve spent more time leading each other on rather than talking about you choosing to become a bloodsucker.”

“I wasn’t—”

“Yes, Bella, you were!” He stopped abruptly, making Bella run into him. “ You kissed me that night before he called. You tell me that you always need me. And you tell me to trust you, knowing damn well you’re the least trustworthy person I know!”

The words pierced through her, bringing water to her eyes. “Jake… I made my choice.”

“Yeah. You chose to kill yourself. Congratulations, sorry I didn’t bring a cake.”

She stumbled over her next words, thick with emotion. “You don’t know anything about me and Edward, or our predicament. He’s in love with me, and I’m in love with him. I—We can’t live without each other. That was proven in Italy.”

Jacob flung out his arms. “Oh yes, in front of the fucking vampire government. Nothing says, ‘True Love’ like becoming a rip-off Romeo and Juliet! Tell me, are you proud to be in love with a suicidal vampire, or are you just that desperate for love?”

In a swift second, a sounding smack echoed through the woods. Followed by a wounded groan. 

“Holy shit, Jacob! What are you made out of? Stone?” Bella held her stiff wrist. Jacob couldn’t help but smirk, but his smugness quickly turned into concern.

“Are you okay?”

“Does it look like I’m okay?!” She shrieked, pacing the forest floor. “Dammit, I think it’s swelling.”

Jacob rolled his eyes, gently grabbing her arm. “Let me see.” 

She reluctantly let him examine her hand, wincing every time he grazed it. Nothing ever came good from hitting a werewolf in the face.

“It’s only sprained. Maybe Edward’s creepy-ass dad can help you.” 

She didn’t respond, snatching her arm away. The anger and intensity died down as they stood in silence. 

“Sorry,” Jacob mumbled. “It wasn’t supposed to come out like that.”

Bella glanced at him, her irritation melting away. “I shouldn’t have hit you.”

They nod in agreement and continue their way back. Bella’s hand sprained, Jacob’s patience wearing thin, and a relationship bruised. The weight has become unbalanced, and the bad outweighs the good. 

“Do you think we have a chance—in the battle, I mean?” Bella corrected, nervously. 

Jacob notices it and scoffs. He expected a pain soaring through his chest, wanting more and loathing the world. But he felt something else: relief.

“A shitload of bloodthirsty demons coming to Forks?” He raised a brow. “What could go wrong?”

“Do you think it’s too late?”

The question comes out of Seth’s mouth in a rush, the words falling over each other. Leah scrunched her nose.

“Seth, what are you talkin’ about?”

He paused their stroll down the sidewalk, heading towards the crowded bonfire. It was last minute and immediate, only consisting of the council members, the pack, and imprints. Emily thought it would be nice for everyone to share this night to take a breather before the battle tomorrow, but honestly, Leah could only feel the tension grow. The bonfire wasn’t just a bonfire, it was the fate of dozens of vampires; disassembled and burned. She tried to convince herself that vampires were the devil, monsters that only had a sole purpose to destroy human life. But they were once humans too. With lives, dreams, and hopes, just like them. 

“I don’t want to fight anymore…” Seth whined. “What if something happens? What if a vamp slips through our fingers and comes to the Rez? Worst of all, what if we lose—”

“Seth, you don’t have to worry about all of that.” Leah tries to dismiss it, but his grave expression was set.

“ But I do, Leah ! I appreciate you trying to protect me, but you can’t protect me from this. I’m a werewolf, and there are vampires. Death is inevitable at this point—”

“No!” Leah grabbed his arm, pulling him close. “You’re not dying ! It doesn’t matter what we are, or what is chasing after us. Okay?” The last word came out desperate. It was an unsaid fear shared between them: they simply couldn’t afford to lose anyone else.

They approach the rest of everyone with forced smiles and nerves. This was the first time everyone gathered since the training with the Cullens, and the sudden visual of Jacob groping Leah. Leah was so disoriented by the fact that everyone witnessed a private moment, that she accidentally greeted Emily with a smile. The whole world is off its axis.

Without realizing it, her eyes scanned the backyard, looking for a calming face. But Jacob wasn’t here, and her chest tightened. 

“Lookin’ for someone?” 

The deep voice startled her, bringing her hand to her chest. Sam gave her a strained smile, appearing to her side. They stood away from the small crowd, but could still feel like speculation from afar. The air turned rigid, and their backs grew stiff and straight. An appropriate distance between them and the underlying desire to run away. They never felt more like strangers until now.

“Whatever you have to say, Sam, just say it.”

“How long?”

“How long, what?”

“You know, what, Lee—”

“The hell did I tell you about calling me that?” She snapped. They share a fierce glare as if waiting for the other to swing and hell to break loose. Instead, Leah cleared her throat, taking a step further away.

“I’m gonna take a wild guess here and say you don’t like what you saw the other day?”

“ Jacob ? Really?”

 “It’s none your business, actually—”

“—He’s practically still in diapers. Are you that desperate—”

“—And yet he can still make a better Alpha than you—”

“—Watch it!”

“Fuck off!” She whispered-yelled, mindful of the human ears nearby. “Just admit that your balls are in a twist because someone else—other than you—cares about me.”

“That’s not the reason. The reason is that he’s young, and you’re clearly using him because you can’t get over the imprint.”

Leah muffled a laugh in her fist. “Are you fucking joking? God, are you that dense? Jacob is the only person, other than my family, that has been there for me. Every step of the way. And it pains you to see that, doesn’t it? You’re too blinded by Emily to even be there for other people you care about.”

Sam’s jaw clicked, directing his eyes elsewhere. “You don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Don’t I?” She scoffed. “Emily told me the truth about imprinting. There’s no choice, there’s no room for resistance. You’re both mindless slaves to a bond for the rest of your lives.”

“Not true!” He seethed. A growl rumbled in his chest, making the pack more alert. But they quickly pretend to immerse themselves in the food. 

A smirk grew on Leah’s lips. “Prove it. Tell Emily the truth.”

A flicker of confusion went through his features, while his glare softened.

“Tell Emily that you don’t want to get married.”

“Don’t.” He breathed out.

“Tell her that you tried to confess your true feelings to me on multiple occasions.”

“Stop it, Leah!” Sam grabbed her arm, but she quickly snatched it away. 

“Tell your precious imprint that you're still in love with me!”

They both stilled, the words floating in the night air. Taking a breath to see if anyone else witnessed their harsh exchange, anyone with regular senses continued to congregate, oblivious to the furious tremors going through them. However, the pack glanced back at them anxiously, almost disappointed and ashamed to overhear.

Leah sighed deeply, running a hand through her hair. “I’m done fighting with you, Sam.”

He looked at her, an apology coming near, but Leah stopped him. “No. No more apologies. You don’t mean it.”

“Cut me some slack, please ,” he begged. “Just how you didn’t ask to be in this, I didn’t either. Remember that.”

“I do remember, Sam.” Her voice turned soft, while her anger drifted. “But every time I do, I remember everything else, and it fucking hurts.”

He went silent, and Leah took the opportunity to join the others as Billy came rolling out with beaming eyes. Food in hand, conversations coming to a stop, everyone gathered around the fire with their attention on the Chief. Leah rested her head on Sue, earning a sweet forehead kiss. Seth sat beside her with two plates in hand—one for himself and one for his sister. And just before Billy started to speak, another figure sat near her.

Jacob with his hair pulled up into a hurried bun, exposing his jawline and a dimple from an uncomfortable smile. In a quick moment their eyes met, and for the first time tonight, their smiles turned genuine. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 16

Battle Scars, part 1

    An unfamiliar shudder traveled through Jacob in the morning. His surroundings were in a daze while his mind went blank as if he woke up in a fever dream instead of reality. The battle is creeping along, so close that he could practically smell the striking stench of vampires. 

    Rushing to the front door, only eating two apples and a piece of toast, his father calls out to him.

    Jacob turns back, a nervous hand on the doorknob. “Yeah?”

    Billy wheels in, a bittersweet smile worn on his face, accompanied by his wrinkles and wise years in his eyes. “A word?”

    “But—”

    “It’ll be quick.” His voice is stern and sharp; a fatherly voice that only comes out every once and a while. 

    They sit diagonally from each other, Jacob on the couch and Billy parked on the end. Jacob flexed his fingers and cracked his knuckles, while his leg bounced. It’s been a while since his father wore a look like that—the kind that only means one thing: you’ve been caught.

    “So,” he started. “I heard about you and Leah.”

    Jacob held his breath, waiting for the judgment, the criticism, or assumptions. It was all he heard in the pack mind. Nobody had any right to talk about Leah and his… relationship? Whatever they have. 

    “Okay…” Jacob breathed out. “Are you… mad?”

    Billy chuckled warmly. “Of course not, but I do want to have a serious talk with you about it. I know you went through a hard time with Bella—”

    “Leah’s nothing like Bella,” Jacob interjected but quickly apologized. 

    “I know, I know. That’s a good thing, but that’s what also concerns me. Leah’s been through a lot, especially with losing a parent, dealing with Sam’s imprinting, and now becoming the only female shapeshifter. I want to make sure you know exactly what you’re getting into.”

    Jacob nodded. “I do, and she does, as well.” He looked at him with wide eyes. “Dad, I really like her. This—This is different from Bella, trust me. Leah… she gives me a certain peace and it reminds me of time when…”

    He directed his gaze to the floor, continuing to fidget. Billy gives him a confused look over. “When?”

    “When Mom was alive.”

    Thick silence followed his words, and suddenly old memories crept along the walls. Echoes of blissful laughter and incomprehensible joy. It wore heavy on both of their hearts.

    “And as for Bella,” Jacob cleared his throat. “Leah was the only one that didn’t make me feel insane or stupid for loving Bella as I did.” He took a moment. A hazy image of Leah’s smile hidden underneath a thin blanket, her eyes glistening with passion. He grinned at the memory.

    “I trust her.”

    Billy looked at his son with new eyes. He doesn’t know how he missed it—the transformation. Jacob unfolded into a new person right in front of him. A boy becoming a man, although his eyes defied him. A childish eagerness set deep under his lashes, contradicting the exhausted circles above his cheeks. 

    “And I trust you,” Billy said. “But you are being safe, right?”

    Jacob stuttered, “What?”

    “ Safe ? You do remember that talk I had with you in the ninth grade—”

    “Oh my god, please don’t,” he groaned. “The first time was horrible enough.”

    “You still haven’t answered my question.”

    “Dad! We’re not—” The thought both excited him and terrified him at the same time. There was a ninety percent chance that Leah wasn’t a virgin, and there was a one hundred percent certainty that Jacob is. “Trust me, we’re nowhere near that.”

    “Okay, okay.” Billy threw his hands in surrender. “You know why I had to ask, right?”

    Jacob buried his head into his hands, trying to smother the heat in his cheeks. “Can this conversation end now?”

    His father laughed, giving Jacob a reassuring squeeze on the shoulder. Before Jacob could leave, his father’s voice turned serious, fear laced on the edge of his words. 

    “Be careful, Jacob… promise me that.” 

    Jacob swallowed harshly. He was once again reminded that they only had each other, unable to afford to lose the other. 

    “I promise.”

“It’s time—time to prove ourselves as warriors, protectors. This is our first battle, including mine, and I know everyone is nervous and on edge. But don’t let your fear distract you from the endgame. Vampires are the enemy of this land. They’ve created a lifetime of torture, monstrosity, and consequences beyond our control. Destruction is all they know, and destruction is how they will fall—by our own hands.”

    Sam looked at each shapeshifter, intensity pouring from him and latching onto everyone else. 

    “We will win this. Whatever it takes.”

    Jacob was the first one to say, “Whatever it takes.” Then Leah, both sharing a certain level of determination and dominance. The power traveled through the pack as they joined in.

    Sam wore a proud smile. “Good. Now let’s go over the strategy, once more. We stay hidden behind the trees once the newborns enter the field, becoming the element of surprise. Once given the signal, Paul, Jacob, and I come from the sides and meet each other in the middle—”

    “Why are they coming from the sides?” Leah thought out loud, earning multiple head turns.

    Paul rolled his eyes. “Wolf Queen objects. Why am I not surprised?”

    Leah ignored him. “I’m just saying, essentially, Jacob, Paul and you are the strongest. It makes more sense if you three surge straight through the sea of bloodsuckers. This would cause a fleet of surprises and they would try to ditch the scene by going off to the sides. Then, Embry, Quil, and I would come from the sides because we’re the leanest, which makes us faster. They won’t be able to escape. And Jared can shadow us, kind of, because he has the best sight. He can easily see if a leech slipped through our fingers.”

    The pack considered this, a look of shock cast on their features. Even Paul’s irritation melted away. Jacob nudged her discreetly, giving her an impressed nod.

    Sam deflated, careful not to show it. He cleared his throat, projecting his voice more than necessary. “Anyone object to Leah’s plan?”

    Everyone stayed silent. And for the first time, Leah felt like she belonged, like a child discovering new talent. The best part was that no one judged her for it. 

    “Very well then. For now, we station ourselves in the mountains, close to the field. Jacob, I’m assigning you to be the eyes and ears.”

    Jacob raised a brow. “As in?”

    “You’ll be staying close to Edward and Bella, serving as a connection between them and the pack. We need to know what’s going on at all times in twenty-four hours. And Seth will take your place in the morning, as he’s not going to be fighting on the battleground. He’ll be back up.”

    Sam gave him a quick look that made Jacob’s insides heat up. Of course, he would be the one to endure accompanying the couple. It seemed like a punishment.

    “Whatever,” Jacob grumbled. 

    “Good! Let’s go.”

    The pack starts to break into a sprint towards the tree line, preparing to shift forms. But in a fleeting moment, Paul nudged Leah. She prepared herself for a snide or crude comment, that would earn him a bone-crunching punch to the face.

    “That was a good strategy,” he admitted, reluctantly. “You did good.”

    Before she could respond, he took off and joined the others. 

The clouds turned dark, hiding the evening sun. The winds became harsher as Jacob charged up the mountain with Bella secured in his arms. Her breathing caught a few times as the ground appeared smaller and smaller. She forgets how graceful and skillful Jacob truly is. 

They reach the campsite where Edward waited for them. Without hesitation, Bella scurried away from Jacob and into the vampire’s arms. Jacob rolled his eyes.

Edward turns to Jacob with a strained expression. “Thank you.”

Jacob only nods, wishing he could escape, or maybe jump off the mountain, but he was stuck here. Alpha’s orders.

“You should get home before the storm hits,” Bella said.

“I’m staying. Sam thinks it best that you two have my connection to the pack to keep tabs on what’s going on.”

She turned hopeful. “You’re not fighting?”

“Me and Seth will switch out in the morning. He’s pissed about missing out on the action, but it’ll keep him safe.”

Edward notices her disappointment, frowning in the process. “Let’s get you inside.”

Soon, night chased away the sun and brought heavy falls of snow. The blistering winds whipped through the forest and past Jacob’s wolf ears. He curled himself into a ball, protected by his thick fur. He waited for sleep to catch him, but the sound of teeth clattering made him whine. 

Edward was many things—a bloodsucker, a selfish prick—but now he’s classified as a century-old dumbass. He brought a human high on a mountain during a snowstorm and didn’t think to bring a portable heater of some kind. Screw the newborn army! The frostbite is going to be her doom.

Agitated, Jacob phased back with his sweats low on his hips and approached the tent. 

“It’s kind of hard to sleep with all that teeth chattering going on.”

Edward snapped his head towards him, reading his mind briefly. “Forget it.”

“She might need her toes someday.”

He began to crawl to Bella’s side but Edward smacked his cold hand onto his shoulder, stopping him completely. 

Jacob’s jaw clenched. “Get your fucking hand off me.”

“Keep your hands off her.”

“D—Don’t f—fight…” Bella shuddered out. 

Edward glanced at her, his defense dissolving as he reluctantly removed his hand. A sharp glare trained on Jacob as he crawled in her sleeping bag. She didn’t hesitate to nuzzle into his side, sighing at the intense warmth. 

“Gah! You’re freezing, Bella.” 

He wanted to recoil and wash away her touch. The scent of her strawberry shampoo stung his nose like a vampire stench. It was giving him a whiplash! Not that long ago, he would give up anything for Bella to be in his arms, her head resting on his bare chest. It was practically his dream. But now, all he could see is Leah replacing this image. Her thick, jet black hair instead of dull brown; energy radiating from her smile instead of angst. Leah and Bella might as well be day and night.

Hours passed and Bella’s eyes finally gave out as her body went limp. Steady breathing rather than shuddering. 

“I don’t get it,” Edward said, his voice low. 

Jacob huffed. “Get what?”

“You and Leah?”

“No,” Jacob shook his head. “I’m not talking about Leah with you.”

“You care about her.”

“Congratulations, you’ve stated the obvious. Can you shut up now?”

“If you care about her a great deal, then why are you here? With Bella?” Edward’s question spiked through Jacob’s mind, twisting with the already unanswered questions. 

“Stay out of my head.”

“Trust me, I wish I could.”

Jacob squinted at him, tilting his head. “I get under the ice-cold skin of yours, don’t I? I imagine I keep you at night wondering what my next move will be.”

Edward stays quiet, making Jacob scoff. 

“Great. Picking through my brain is okay, but letting me into yours , forget it.” Still, no response. “Look, I know she’s in love with you—”

“Good.”

“—but she’s in love with me too. And that… complicates things.”

Edward notices the frown on his face. “You’re not in love with her.”

“I care about her. That won’t change,” Jacob admitted. He looked down at Bella’s peaceful slumber, not able to contain the regret. If he knew the outcome of this chain of events, he wouldn’t have kissed her back that night, he wouldn’t have fallen in love with her. 

“I’ve known Bella since we were kids, and I liked her ever since,” he reminisced. “Then she came back, met you, then you left. Seemed like a dream come true and I was determined to tell her—show her how I felt. I made it my mission to fall in love with her, and unfortunately, I succeeded.”

Silence passed through them until Edward spoke, “You think that I’m a monster, and maybe I am. But you have to understand that I never wanted this for her. I know you’re good for you, able to provide her a healthy, human life. I’d stop her if I could.”

“This may be Bella’s choice, but you still have the power to say no,” Jacob insisted. “You’re the vampire, remember? Without you, she can’t become a bloodsucker.”

Edward stiffen, his mouth pressed in a tight line. Jacob could see the invisible walls rising as if trying to shield his thoughts. But it didn’t take a mind reader to realize the underlying truth. Jacob scoffed, a humorless chuckle rumbling his chest.

“Deep down… you wanted this all along.” A tremor went through him, making Bella stir in her sleep. Edward stayed quiet.

“You’re a coward,”—he looks down at Bella—“And she is, too.”

Leah turned to the sky, witnessing the day change. She welcomed the morning air traveling in her lungs, but it still didn’t calm her nerves. Anything could go wrong—a newborn could sneak from behind and crack her neck into two. Or worse, she’ll be bitten.

Her gaze focused on the tent ahead. At war with herself, she wanted to barge in there and drag Jacob out by his hair, to stake her claim. So Bella Swan or any other stupid girl won’t touch him. The notion was absurd, but she still missed him—she still wanted him. 

A hand on her shoulder made her jump.

“It’s just me,” Seth put his hands in mock surrender. “Battle jitters?”

Leah scoffed. “You have no idea.”

“It’s probably for the best that I don’t…” he went quiet, incoherently mumbling his next words.

“What is it, Seth?”

“Do you love him?”

Leah’s eyes widened as Seth immediately shrunk away from his words. “Never mind. Forget I asked. It’s clearly not the right time to ask that and—”

“Don’t have a stroke, Seth, it’s fine.” She throws an arm over her little brother, a growing grin on her lips. “Matter of fact, I can stomach talking about Jacob more than these fuckin’ leeches right now.”

Seth mirrored her expression and looked up to the morning sky. Admiring the mixture of purple, pink, and yellow. “Are you afraid?”

“Jacob or the vampires?”

“Both.”

Another flurry of nerves coursed through her while she inhaled deeply. 

“Jacob is everything I didn’t know I needed. God , that’s cheesy!” They both laughed, enjoying the last few moments of stillness and tranquility. 

“I fear he might imprint, or that I might,” Leah whispered. “But, if spending a minute with him is all I get… then it’ll be worth it.”

The statement escaped her in flurries, but true in all the same. 

Seth smiled warmly at his sister. “You deserve to be happy, Lee. I’m happy for you.”

She cleared her throat and blinked away the sting in her eyes. “As for the vamps, well, they’ll burn in hell at the end of the day. I’ll make sure of that.”

“ You’re marrying him?! ”

A sharp growl rumbled in the distance, making the two siblings snap their heads. Jacob stood, red in the face, and body threatening to phase. A stammering Bella in the middle of the fray, while Edward wore a hidden smirk. Leah found herself anxious, realizing that her words came out too early, too quick. Her confession lingered in the air, while Jacob’s jealousy was still apparent.

Unknown of Leah’s presence, Jacob stormed off, trying to swallow the urge to phase. He tried to trudge off, jumping headfirst into the battle, but the pale girl was stepping on his heels, prying him to turn back around.

“Jake, please—just stop and let me explain—”

A cold, humorless laugh silenced her, as Jacob slowly turned to face her. His face is full of betrayal and rage. Any apology or explanation died on Bella’s lips, stunned to see such a mask on the sunshine boy.

“How long?” His voice was thick. 

“I… not long,” Bella rasped. “But—”

“I’m done.”

She stilled, her vision becoming blurry with tears. “What?”

“I can’t…” he swallowed harshly. “I can’t be with you anymore. You’re exhausting, Bella. Everything that you do tires me every fucking day, and you’re killing me! And me trying to force you to choose between life or death is exhausting for you, too, and because of that I’m letting you go.”

His voice cracked on the last part as invisible shackles fell to the ground. He wasn’t just leaving Bella behind, he was leaving an experience and a piece of him. 

“I can’t lose you,” Bella cried. “You’re my best friend!”

“Best friends don’t do this to each other, Bells…” 

She shook her head, defiant of his words. “You’re too important, please , I love you!”

The declaration freezes him, and he feels cold all over. He wishes to blame it on the high altitude, but he suddenly couldn’t breathe. Bella’s eyes were wide and pleading, and he almost fell right back in. It’s always a familiar feeling to surrender to Bella Swan.

Jacob stepped to her, close enough to feel her shaky breaths. His hands cupped her face as her wet lashes fluttered close. 

All he wanted to do was protect someone he loved. And he found himself too stubborn to accept defeat. Turns out all this time he was looking into the eyes of a dead man walking. 

His lips pressed delicately on her forehead, as a lonely tear fell down his cheek. 

“Goodbye, Bella.”

Without energy to protest, to fight, he leaves her on the mountain top, heading towards another battle.

Chapter Text

Chapter 17

Choices, part 2

    Leah’s head was cloudy, thundering with assumptions and accusations. She saw it all; the declarations, the tears, and a loving forehead kiss to end it all. Jacob’s expression was firm and pained, surely this was it. This was the end of Bella and Jacob, so why did Leah’s heart hang low? 

    She charged towards the forest, violent shivers surging through her. Her eyes trained open because every time she closed them, she saw the agony glossing over Jacob’s eyes. Did he love her that much? 

    Bella Swan is engaged to Edward Cullen, and Jacob Black has lost the game. Now he’s coming to collect his participation prize. 

    I’m the second option. I’m the consolation prize.

    Leah squeezed her eyes shut, pressing her fingers onto her temples as if trying to force the thought away. But it continued to nag at the back of her head, and that would have to be enough because a piercing howl went through the woods. 

    It’s time.

    The pack mind was like an aggregated beehive, vibrating with anticipation. Bone-chilling growls emit from each wolf as they sink their paws into the soil. Leah crouched down next to Embry, Quil, and Jared, waiting for her time to strike. 

    In between the seconds, there was a moment of agonizing silence. Then a sickening stench spread around the trees like a plague. 

    Wait for the signal, Sam snapped. 

    Jacob entered the pack mind, snippets of events from before raced through his mind but quickly suffocated by the upcoming adrenaline. He took his place beside Sam and Paul, his sharp teeth bared. 

    Now! 

    The next minute was a blur. Pure chaos exploded through the field. Limbs flew, and the smell of burning vampire flesh invaded the atmosphere. The newborns frantically searched for an escape, their stony faces distorted into horror. Their plans were hesitant as six-foot wolves snapped their jaws, hooking around their necks, and separated it from their shoulders. 

    A newborn charged for Emmett, going straight for the kill. In an act of impulse, Leah stepped in and tore through the red-eyed vampire. She looked back at the biggest Cullen as he wore a smirk. 

    Consider us even, Leech.

    Amid the mayhem, another scene coursed through the pack mind. Seth. He stood with Edward and Bella, facing down two vampires that were set on destroying Edward and going for Bella’s throat. Every instinct in Leah’s body wanted to help her brother, but she had to keep her head on straight and focus on the plan. 

    Or someone will get hurt.

    Jacob mimicked the Cullens the best way he could. Gracefully, he maneuvered through the field and picked off his targets. Kill. Kill. Kill them all.

    In the corner of his eye, Paul is surrounded by three newborns, their arms trying to sneak their way around his neck and body. His wolf moved frantically, roaring to find a way out. Immediately, Jacob charges at him, snapping the newborns apart, allowing Paul to be set free and kill a few on his own. They share a look, sharp and fierce.

    Thanks, Baby Chief. 

    Jacob suppressed a growl and went back into the fray. 

    Embry and Quil raced down the sides of the clearing, tearing through every newborn that tried to cut through the woods. In a blur, a leech collided with Quil, knocking him into the nearest tree. A horrendous crack echoed as tree limbs fell to the ground. The newborn stood over the wounded wolf, ready to strike until Embry leaped from the shadows and ripped through its torso. 

    Kill. Kill them all. 

    Jacob—with the most kills—panting in the middle of the clearing. His vision is colored red and desperate for his next kill. He gets his wish as two newborns charge at him from opposite sides. Using his training and strategy, he locked his teeth into the nearest newborn and used every inch of his strength to throw them into the next newborn. Their bodies clashed violently, as their limbs shattered to the ground.

      “Impressive,” Jasper mumbled as he passed him. 

    Leah couldn’t tell if she was bleeding, or if her bones were broken, the only thing she felt was the relief of letting go of every painful memory. She laid them to rest with every bite, tear, and claw. Her rage fueled her to the end. 

    Battle cries and screams of terror died down, and the sound of fire crackling took its place. All of the newborns were dead. Their remains were scattered throughout the field and thrown into a large bonfire. 

    Leah limped towards the tree line. Adrenaline was still buzzing through her veins and she ached to kill another vampire. 

    Only mere yards away, the last newborn stood. He hissed at Leah’s wolf, and she didn’t hesitate to charge. 

    “Leah, don’t—!”

    The newborn slid out of her way, spun, and grabbed her, fiercely yanking off of her paws. With the same quickness, Jacob leaps onto the newborn.

    Thick emotions rolled through the pack mind, shuddering each of them as Jacob tackled him. They roll violently into the clearing. Jacob snaps harshly, biting a piece of the vampire’s face off. But the newborn’s arms were already around him. 

    A sickening crack bounced through the field. Jacob’s howls of agony followed as he fell to the ground. The wolves rushed to the vampire and tore him apart. 

    An intense ring surged through his ears. Mind-numbing pain hugged him, stroking every vulnerability. His bare body curved in a fetal position as he let out a silent scream. Blood escaped his lips, streaming down the side of his face, mixing with the tears and sweat. His vision was full of white light and figures he couldn’t depict. 

    But he saw her. 

    The woman he vowed to protect without even saying the words. His eyes locked on hers as she stood furthest away, tears pooling in her eyes and her jaw slacked. 

    “Leah…” He groaned out. 

    Edward steadied him. “Jacob, hold on! Carlise will take care of you—”

    “Keep him on his side, so he won’t choke on his blood,” Carlisle warned. “The right side of his body is shattered, it’s amazing that he’s alive right now.”

    All in human form, the pack stood around their brother, feeling the pain bounce off of him. They grimace at his cries. 

    “Jake!” Bella shrieked. “Oh my god…”

    “I need to set the bones before his accelerated healing kicks in—”

    A bloodcurdling scream ripped from Jacob’s throat, his body withering and twitching. 

    Carlisle sighed deeply. “It’s already starting.”

    Edward looked to Sam. “We have to get him out of here quickly. The Volturi are on their way and we won’t win a fight with them.”

    “We’ll bring him to Billy’s.”

    The vampire doctor nodded. “Go. I’ll be there as soon as I can.”

    Jacob whimpered as the pack lifted him. Joined together, carrying the pain of each member. 

    “We gotcha, Jake, don’t worry,” Jared reassured. 

    Anxiety settles outside the Black house. Billy sits in his wheelchair on the porch,  with Sue by his side, comforting him. The pack twitches, unable to keep still. Fidgeting with their hands, pacing the ground, and murmuring threats to no one in particular. Except for Leah. She stood furthest away from the group, stoic with her fingers tangled and her breathing shallow. The series of events passed in a haze before her eyes, repeating her mistake. 

Guilt clenched her heart and she wanted to sob. This was her fault. Jacob almost died because of her. She let her rage consume her and twisted with her rationality. 

He’s going to hate me. It’s over. 

The sound of an old truck rolled through, stopping abruptly in front of the house. Bella hopped out and went straight to the porch. Before she could ask anything, another yell erupted from inside the house. Leah flinched sharply, feeling the pain herself. They all do.

Emily put a hand on Sue’s and Billy’s shoulders as he took in a shuddered breath.

“It’s been going on for a while.” Seth sighed.

Embry shook his head, running a hand through his hair. “Doc’s re-breaking his bones.”

Paul turned towards Leah, ready to blame her, but the look on her face made him clamp his mouth shut. She resembled a scared, little girl lost in a crowd of strangers. The sight was jarring compared to the fierce wall she’s built around herself ever since she phased. He was accustomed to their shared bickering and constant hate, but now he saw her in a different light. A sister.

Everyone spun toward the front door as Carlisle walked through with Sam following. Emily immediately goes to his side, wrapping her arms around his waist. 

Carlisle turned to Billy. “I gave him some morphine but his body temperature will burn it off soon. I’ll come back to set up a drip.”

“Thank you.” His voice was thick and his eyes glassy. 

For a brief moment, worlds merged as they shook hands. Mutual respect and acceptance. Everyone knew this would be the last time.

Carlisle scanned the small crowd beforehand and locked eyes with Bella. A look of distant sympathy washed over his features, and she took it as a sign to make her way towards the house.

Then he turned to Leah. “Leah… he’s asking for you.”

Everyone stilled, including Bella. Their faces mask shock. If it wasn’t clear before, then it’s clear now. Leah Clearwater has captured Jacob Black’s heart, even battered and bruised. 

Leah looked at Billy, silently asking if it was okay. With a warm grin, he nodded. With careful and deliberate steps, she entered the little red house, trying not to wrinkle her nose at the mixture of vampire stench and rubbing alcohol. The wooden floorboards creaked underneath her bare feet, and she hugged her torso while digging her nails into her biceps. 

Jacob laid in bed, coated in thick layers of glistening sweat. His chest raised with shallow breaths and the entire right side of his body is in a series of braces. Leah put a hand to her mouth, muffling a sob. 

Even in unbearable pain, he smiles at her.

“Don’t cry, Lee… come here.”

Hesitant, Leah sat on the far edge of the bed. Terrified that one wrong move will break him all over again. She’s done enough as it is.

“I’m so sorry…” Leah cried. “This is all my fault.”

“It’s not. That newborn would have crushed you, or worse… bit you.”

“But if I hadn’t—”

“I would’ve done it a thousand times over, Leah,” he said, firmly. Their gaze turned fierce, unwillingly to look anywhere else but each other.

“You’re too far away, come here…” Jacob winced as he shifted closer to the wall.

“Don’t move, you idiot!” Leah sniffed and quickly curled up beside him. 

She gently laid her head on his left shoulder. Even doused with rubbing alcohol, vampire stench, and blood, he still smelled like fresh rain and pine trees. A wave of comfort washed over.

“For a second… I thought I lost you,” she whispered.

Using his good arm, he held her close. “You can never lose me.” He took a nervous deep breath, gathering his next words. He lowered his head slightly, their noses brushing together.

“I made my choice, Lee… just like everyone else. And with that choice, came consequences. I’m tired of my life taking these strange turns without any control, and I’m not gonna let monsters, Alphas, not even imprinting, get in the way of what I want. And I want you , Leah. I choose you.”

His words squashed everything—all of the doubt, the worries, the anxiety. She saw it in his dark eyes, the determination set in deep without any intention of retreating. She let herself fall into the warmth, sharing his same thoughts.

“All my life I’ve been waiting. For my sisters to come back, for Bella—peace.”

“What are you waiting for now?“

“For you to kiss me.”

Leah cupped his face, her thumb caressing his cheekbone and the tip of fingers grazing his soft hair. He sighed with content, leaning into her touch. With a leap of faith, she brought him close. 

His lips were soft and he tasted like how she imagined—fresh and exciting. It was like downing your first bottle of water during a heated day. The everlasting thought of finally. 

THE END OF PART ONE   

Chapter Text

Chapter 18

Jacob breathed in deeply. The rock twirled in his grip as he set his sights on the gleaming horizon. The evening breeze traveled delicately on his exposed skin, as it whispered past his ears. Swiftly, he extended his arm and threw the rock into the distance. He watched the small object disappear and a satisfied grin appeared on his lips. 

    “I beat you, again!” 

    Leah rolled her eyes and picked up another rock. “In your dreams, Black. My last throw went way further than yours.”

    She threw her rock, listening to the pleasing whoosh . A frown pulls on the corners of her lips when it doesn’t go as far as Jacob’s. 

    “Ha! See!”

    Leah sucked her teeth, looking for another rock. “Let’s make this more interesting, shall we?”

    “Oh? What did you have in mind?”

    “The person who throws their rock the furthest gets a massage from the loser.” 

    There was a flirtatious tone in her voice that made Jacob’s heart forget a few beats. “You know what, there’s been some tension in my back that I’ve been wanting to straighten out. I’ll take you up on that.”

    Leah smirks, bouncing a rock in her palms. “There’s something you need to learn about me, Chief.” She stepped closer to him, as both of their breathing turned shallow. 

    “And what is that?”

    “I don’t lose.”

    Jacob hums, his bottom lip caught in between his teeth. He discovered, in the past few months, that Leah Clearwater is his weakness. Starting from the mischievous glint in her doe eyes to the pink in her full lips, to the confidence in her voice, and down to her tempting curves. But no matter how tempting Leah was, Jacob found himself stuck in a corner of fear and embarrassment. 

    He took his final throw, making a point to chuck it as far and dramatic as he could. Both of their rocks disappear beyond the cliffs, but it was clear that Jacob won this round.

    Leah rolled her eyes, a pout on her lips. “Cheater.”

    Jacob cackled, sending himself to the ground. He clutched his stomach, struggling to spit out his word. “I’m—I’m the cheater?! That doesn’t make any sense!”

    “It does! And you did!”

    “ Awwww ,” He suddenly pulls her down to the ground and into his lap. “Don’t be a sore loser, Lee Bee. It’s not a good look on you.”

    She tried to wiggle out of his arms, but the sweet kisses he laid on her shoulder, trailing up on her neck made her think otherwise. 

    “You suck, you know that?”

    He groaned in the crook of her neck. “There are about fifty jokes I can make with that.”

    Leah gasped, elbowing him in his ribs. They toss and turn in the grass, consumed with giggles and playful threats. It was times like these that they both forgot the reality that lingers beyond the tall trees. Up here, throwing rocks, making meaningless bets, and tangling in each other's arms was their escape from pack duties and the haunting memories of vampire battles. But now and then, the striking remembrances come trickling into the back of their minds, shattering their fragile defenses. 

    Out of breath, Leah laid on top of him, resting her head on his chest. His heart rambled on, matching the beat of hers. His big arms wrapped around her waist, trapping her in his warmth. Oh, how she wishes this moment could last forever…

    “Do you still think about it? About them?” Jacob’s voice is low.

    Leah hesitates, sucking in a shaky breath. “Yes. Everyday.”

    He started to draw small circles along her lower back, his thoughts foggy with the past. “Almost every night I dream about it… even though they were bloodsuckers, their screams sounded so…”

    “Human,” Leah breathes out. 

    “In my dreams, they’re not even vampires. They have blood pumping through their veins, beating hearts, and color in their cheeks. But then we kill them anyway—no mercy.”

    Leah lifts, straddling him. “Hey… we did what we had to do. They weren’t human anymore, and it fucking sucks that someone created them to become… monsters But we are not monsters. Vampires are.”

    Jacob looked up at her and fell in love with her all over again. Just when he thought there isn’t enough strength in the world, there’s Leah—standing beside him with enough strength and love to heal the world. 

    “What would I do without you, hmm?” He said, half-jokingly. 

    Leah rolled her eyes, pecking his lips. “Wouldn’t know how to tie your shoes.”

*

    Their hands stay interlocked as they trudge back to the little, red house. Their noses twitch at the smell of a home-cooked meal. Usually, Billy would wait for Jacob to make dinner, especially an abundant amount of food. And as they got closer, another presence fulfilled the small space. 

    As the couple entered the home, their suspicions high, a distant scent swirled under their noses and a familiar laugh danced around their ears.

    “Jacob!” 

    Rachel, with a huge grin, skipped away from the counter and charged into her little brother’s arms. His hand dropped from Leah with surprise, and it seemed the wind got knocked out of him. 

    “Are you surprised?! I begged Dad to not tell you!” Rachel gave him one last squeeze, then stepped back to get a good look at him. “Nevermind, it seems as though I should be the one surprised! What the hell are they feeding you, Jake? You were the same height as me not that long ago.”

    Jacob still stood there with wide eyes and words caught in his throat. He might’ve changed, and so has the world around him, but his sister remained the same. A bubbly voice, a bounce in her step, and the same spunk she inherited from their mother. He waited for the excitement to bubble over, and to scoop her up in his arms to squeeze the hell out of her. But his feet seemed rooted to the floorboards.

    Rachel’s grin faltered, but she covered up her wince. She expected her little brother to be bouncing for joy to see at least one of his big sisters. 

    “Rach! It’s so good to see you!” Leah stepped in, hooking her arms around the girl. 

    “Leah! Oh my god, you’ve grown too! I swear, have they put something in the water when I was gone?” Rachel’s laugh turned nervous. 

    Billy chuckled deeply. “Remember I told you that Leah and Jacob, and a few others, signed up for Reservation Patrols? They keep the land safe while staying in shape.”

    He discreetly winked at the couple, as they caught on. Another person to lie to. Jacob tensed at the realization. 

    Rachel hummed, skipping back to the stove. “You know what, that’s good! Somebody has to keep order around here. Remember the whole pills fiasco in the ninth grade, Lee?”

    “I thought you were taking classes for the summer semester?” Jacob finally spoke. His tone was more cold and sharp than intended. 

    “Uhm… well, I just thought that it would be nice to take a break from classes. College campuses can get a little stuffy.”

    “Funny, you said the same thing about the Rez.”

    Before thick silence could follow his words, Leah added, “You must have a ton of stories!”

    Rachel forced a smile. “College is college. Nothing special.”

    “Yet you still left—”    

    Leah nudged him hard into his side and muttered under her breath, “Not now.”

    He didn’t know where the anger was coming from. It’s been two years since both of his sisters left, it shouldn’t sting this bad . But the memories were starting to flood in as Rachel skipped through the house as if she still lived here. Jacob waited patiently at the phone, waiting for calls, and waiting at the door, just in case one of them changed their minds about leaving. Instead, he carried responsibilities that weren't meant for him to carry.

    Billy cleared his throat. “Rachel is making spaghetti. Leah, you’re welcome to stay for dinner.”

    Rachel wore a knowing grin, glancing between Jacob and Leah. Although their hands were no longer interlocked, they remained shoulder to shoulder, moving when the other one moved. 

    The tips of Leah’s ears burned. “Uhm, I would love to. Jake?”

    A small smile played on his lips, his anger melting away. “You don’t even have to ask.”

     They settled for the unresolved tension as the smell of spaghetti became more prominent. Soon the moon replaced the sun, and laughter replaced the awkward silence. Turns out Rachel did have some stories to tell, which involved her first college party. And as she rambled on, Leah found herself wishing for the same thing. To experience life beyond La Push, beyond the wolf pack. But after one look at Jacob’s bright grin, and the musical sound of his laugh, made her suppress those thoughts before they could bubble to the surface. 

    “Do you have another plate left? Seth would hate me if I didn’t bring him leftovers.”

    Rachel nodded, wiping her hands on a napkin. “Of course! I made double the extras, considering there was only a block of cheese and a ketchup bottle in the fridge before I got here.”

    Jacob suppressed an eye roll.

    “What is this?” Rachel asked after skipping to the kitchen. “Holy shit is this real?!”

    Billy raised a brow, but before he could question, a piece of thick paper was lifted into the air. The room fell into a deep silence. The words were written in bold, curved in fancy lettering. Although the paper was crumpled and stained from abandonment and rage, it was clearer than day. 

    Rachel scoffed, a look of disbelief on her face. “When was anyone gonna tell me that Bella Swan is getting married?!” 

Chapter Text

  Chapter 19

Broken Hearts and Broken Trust

    Jacob’s glare burned holes through the letter. A small tremor raced through his spine as he bit back a growl. Why did Rachel have to come and open old wounds? That invitation was forgotten for a damn reason! He remembered almost tearing the door off the hinges, on the verge of phasing, when it arrived in the mail. 

    Rachel still stood with a huge grin on her face, oblivious to the sudden tension in the room. “Uhmm.. hello?! This is huge! I remember when Bella used to always come over and make mud pies with Jake—”

    Jacob abruptly rose from his seat, knocking the chair over in the process. He snatched the invitation and ripped it into pieces. “Things changed, Rachel. You would’ve known that if you were here.”

    Her smile slowly dropped as her last shred of optimism left her eyes. 

    “Jacob—”

    “I’m gonna go walk Leah home, Dad. I’ll be back,” Jacob mumbled before taking Leah’s hand, the front door slamming behind them. 

    Leah kept up with his hasty stride, his grip tightening around her hand. She could feel the urge to phase roll off his tensed shoulders.

    Comforting is not her strongest suit, usually decides to tell people to suck it up or to fight back. But this was different; Jacob needed her. 

“You want to talk about it?” She asks in a low voice.

Jacob stops abruptly. Moonlight shone on his features, highlighting the flex of his jaw, the shudder in his chest, and the thick emotion flickering underneath his lashes. 

“Seeing Rachel… her talking about Bella… talking about the past, it’s just—” he closes his eyes for a brief moment, taking a deep breath. “It opens up too many old wounds.”

Leah chewed on his bottom lip, a question buzzing inside her head. 

“Are you still…” she cursed to herself, already regretting it. “Not over what happened?”

His eyebrows furrowed as he looked at her. Then a scoff escaped him.

“I am not in love with Bella if that’s what you’re asking.”

“No! No… that’s not… okay, that’s what I’m asking but—”

“Remember when everyone always asked if you were still in love with Sam? And it made you feel like shit because not everything revolves around him?”

Leah was dejected, her cheeks burning. “Okay… you got me there.”

Jacob then cupped her face in his hands, his thumb brushing softly against her cheekbone. She watched his lips twitch into his famous smiles and all of the anger washes away, bringing the light back into his eyes. The feeling of warmth and serenity comes back with a force she welcomed. And she wonders why she denied this feeling before. 

“I don’t want anyone to ruin this. I haven’t felt this happy in a while and I’m afraid old wounds will destroy everything,” he says softly.

“It won’t. I promise.”

    There was a soft knock on the door. Jacob turned over in his bed, trying to ignore her presence. He wondered if he was being hard on her, that he was blowing this out of proportion. But every time he looked at her, he could still smell the rain of the day she left. 

    “Jake? Can I come in?”

    He squeezed his eyes shut, trying to suppress the tightening in his chest. 

    “You know I’m just gonna come in anyway.” She chuckled dryly. “Might as well invite me first.”

    Jacob still didn’t answer but instead sat at the edge of his bed, looking anywhere but his sister as she shut the door behind her. Rachel took careful steps as if she stepped over a minefield. Once she sat near him, she exhaled deeply.

    “Jake… I know you’re upset—” he snorted. “—and you have every right to be! But there are still some things you don’t understand.”

    “And what the hell don’t I understand, Rach?” Jacob’s voice was gravelly as he still couldn’t meet her eyes. “You left. Becca left. You left without a second thought, and now you think that you can come back in here and play ‘happy family’?”

    “Jacob, that’s not fair.” 

    “You know what’s not fair?” He jerked towards her. His intense stare burned holes through the truth. “Being nine years old and watching your mother being lowered to the ground. Being ten years old and having to carry your father to the bathroom because his sisters don't come home anymore. Being fourteen years old and having to take care of an entire home by himself because his sisters—the ones he needed the most—couldn’t wait to take the first ticket out of here. 

    “Mom’s death damn near killed all of us , not just you or Becca.”

    Tears carved Rachel’s face while her bottom lip trembled. Regret shone in her eyes and this time she had to look away. 

    “Did you know that uhm…” she started, after a few beats of silence. “I practically begged Mom and Dad for a baby brother?”

    Jacob’s eyes flickered towards her for a moment. Her gaze was far away while a ghost of a smile played on her lips. 

    “Me and Becca were three about to turn four, and I saw all the babies at daycare and I wanted one so bad! Like a new toy. Besides, Becca was getting on my nerves so I wanted someone else to play with.” She laughed, quietly. 

    “But after months of begging and pleading, you came along,” she says wistfully. “And I was over the moon! I took you everywhere, showing you off as my new baby brother. I even helped you take your first steps…”

    Rachel’s voice trailed off as she let out a shaky breath. She placed a hand on his shoulder, ignoring how warm he was. 

    “I vowed to protect you. To love you with all of my heart and I failed . And I have never regretted something so much. I’m here, and I’m not leaving you, or Dad, again.”

Her words cut through his defenses. And he felt the need to hold his big sister again and allow himself to take the world off his shoulders for a little while. But it’s hard to tear down a wall made of stone.

Jacob wiped at his eyes and sniffed. “I just… I don’t know if I can forgive you right now.”

Rachel tucked in her lips and nodded. Without another word, she left with a broken heart and broken trust. 

    “Please tell me you're joking.”

    Billy sipped his coffee, while a game played on the small television. Jacob still had morning bags under his eyes and only came out of his room when he realized Rachel left to go to the store. It was too early for awkward glances and thick silences. 

    His dad only shrugged. “Charlie wanted me to come. Probably for moral support. The wedding is gonna be hard for him, and not to mention Renee is going to be there.”

    “Then invite him for drinks and down his sorrows with cheap beer, not follow him into the vampires’ lair!” Jacob exasperated. 

    Billy deadpanned, “I’m pretty sure the only thing that’s going to be on the menu is wedding meatballs and cake. If you’re that worried, then come with me!”

    Jacob’s eyebrows shot up, stuttering on his next words. “I—I… I don’t even have anything to wear—”

    “Lies! There are some button-up shirts in the back of your closet. Probably buried underneath the clothes you never hang up or fold.”

    Jacob groaned, flopping down on the couch. “There’s no way I’m going to that damned wedding disguised as a funeral.”

    “Well then, might as well say your goodbyes.”

    “I already did.”

    Billy rolled his eyes. “Without being in the middle of a vampire battle.”

    “What’s the point? Bella is still going to be a vampire and I’m still gonna have to go to her staged funeral.”

    “Y’know, if I didn’t know any better, I would’ve thought you two were never friends.”

    Jacob sunk into the couch, a frown on his lips. “We were friends… once.”

    In the garage, sipping on warm soda and eating cold pizzas. Fixing on bikes without a care in the world. The only worry was what they would do tomorrow and how fun it would be. Jacob would be lying to himself if he said he didn’t miss those days. 

    But things are different now. 

    “Bella made her choice, Dad. And so have I.”

    “Please tell me you’re joking.”

    Indeed Sue Clearwater wasn't. Because there was a dress laid out on the bed right now, along with accessories Leah has never seen her mother wear. She sniffed the air—was that perfume? When the hell did her mother wear perfume?

    “Charlie invited me. I heard he invited Billy, too.”

    Leah’s eyes went wide. “Jacob’s dad is going, too?!”

    There was no way the Chief was going to a vampire wedding willingly, especially if Jacob knows about this. Then again Charlie and Billy were practically joined to the hip. Leah wondered if they were like this in their younger days.

    “I honestly think Charlie is calling in reinforcements for moral support. Poor thing,” Sue said. 

    Leah shook her head and pulled Seth into the room. “Seth, please tell Mom that going to a vampire wedding is completely ridiculous, and instead of wedding cake being on the menu that she will.”

    The two women waited for his response while his mouth gaped open. That’s until Leah realized he was fondling with a black tie.

    “Actually…. I was already planning to go…”

    “Seth!”

    “Edward invited me,” Seth winced.

    “ Edward ?!” She followed him out of Sue’s bedroom, as he tried to quicken his pace down the stairs. “When did you become friends with a bloodsucking psychopath?”

    Seth went back to ironing out his shirt, avoiding eye contact. “Well… during the newborn battle, we kind of bonded, y’know? I did help him kill Victoria and Riley so—”

    “So… what? You two bite some heads off and now he invites you over for tea and brunch? Seth… he’s a Cullen! Those bastards—”

    “Are not that bad!” 

    “They’re vampires! Of course, they’re bad.”

    Seth rolled his eyes and ignored her. She wondered if his naivety and kindness is getting to the best of him, like usual, or if he was right. But every time she thought of the Cullens, she thinks of the hell they brought with them. If it wasn’t for them, she would be normal and her father would be alive. 

    But she doesn’t bring that up, because Seth is still her little brother and sometimes he needs to learn for himself.

    Leah sighed deeply. “I’m living with crazy people. Fine, go to the Transylvania wedding. I’m going with y’all.”

    Seth perked up. “Really?”

    “Yes, really. Because between you and Mom, one of you is bound to fuck up and cause a blood bath. So yes, I’m going. Wear something nice and don’t embarrass me.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 20

Fucked Up Wedding

    The smell of flowers swirled underneath Jacob’s nose. They littered the evergreen grass, and hung down from the trees, acting as curtains. Silk covered the seats and trailed down the makeshift aisle. One thing was for sure, the Cullens knew how to decorate—but they could’ve dipped the whole city of Forks in gold, and nothing and nobody would’ve been as beautiful as how Leah looked right now.

She resembled the rarest sunflower, picked with care and delicacy. Her yellow dress hugged her waist and pooled down to her knees. Her inky black hair was straightened, and laid down her back, exposing her collarbones and jawline. A bright smile stretched her full lips as Seth whispered a joke. 

Jacob Black tended to fall in love fast and hard. Tripping over himself to reach the finish line. That’s why when Bella walked down the aisle, he imagined Leah wearing that satin wedding gown, holding flowers, and anticipating every step she took. All while the image scared the shit out of him, excitement filled him. Warmed his chest and tugged at his heart. 

Jacob knew that this wedding was the last place he should be. He realized when Bella and Edward said their ‘I do’s’ . He wasn’t here just to protect his family—Rachel insisted on tagging along—from the vegetarian vampires, but he needed to see this. To see the chapter end and to taste a new one beginning. 

“Are you done choking down on cake, or are you gonna dance with me?” Leah whispered in his ear, sending chills down his spine. 

The reception was just as beautiful as the ceremony. Filled with over-the-top decorations. And for vampires who don’t eat human food, they baked the best cake in the world. Seth ate four slices, already. 

Jacob licked the frosting off his lips, standing up from the table. Leah looked up to him under her long lashes, almost making Jacob stagger on the way to the dance floor. 

A grin played on her lips as her hands laid on his shoulders. “Y’know, if I didn’t know any better, I would go as far as to say you’re enjoying this fucked up wedding.”

Jacob laughed louder than he should’ve, earning a few glances. 

“Don’t act like you weren’t getting a little misty-eyed during the vows.” 

Leah scoffed, “Yeah, right! Those generic ass vows.” She glanced at the dancing newlyweds across the floor. “Well, at least they meant it literally when they said, ‘forever’.” 

“Yeah,” Jacob snorted. “Life doesn’t mean much when you have forever.”

Leah raised a brow. “Wise words, Most High Alpha.”

“Don’t make me leave you on this dance floor.”

She laughed in his shirt, then rested her head on his chest. At some point, they stopped swaying to the beat of the music playing around them but started dancing to a sweet melody of their own—the only kind they could hear and understand. 

But unfortunately, their bubble had to be popped.

“Jacob?”

Bella approached, with fidgety hands and a nervous smile. 

The couple tensed, reluctantly pulling away from each other. Whatever the vampire lover had to say was bound to cause another war. And Jacob would hate to ruin his only good button-up.

“Leah,” Bella sighed. “You look… amazing. Yellow suits you!”

Leah furrowed her brows, looking down at herself. “Thanks… I guess.”

“You two wouldn’t mind if I cut in?”

They shared a look, and Jacob’s eyes were pleading to be saved. But Leah started backing away, awkwardly scratching the back of her neck. 

“Uh yeah, sure. Whatever.” Before Jacob could protest, Leah was with Seth, avoiding looking at the dance floor. 

Bella and Jacob fell into step, awkwardly swaying at the vintage slow song. They stood inches apart, with his hand way above her back and the other interlocked with hers. It felt like he was back at the Middle School Formal with chaperones swarming the scene. 

“I’m glad you came, Jake,” she says softly. “It means a lot.”

“Just here to make sure your bloodsuckers don’t decide to change up their menu.”

Bella shook her head. “Then you have nothing to worry about.”

“Oh yeah? Those blonds over there sure look like they’re thinking about ripping my throat out.”

They both glance toward a new group of vampires. Eyes colored gold and burdened with unnatural beauty. A silent rage filled their stare, seemingly only towards Jacob and his family. 

“The Denalis…” Bella sighed. “They kind of hold a grudge against you and the pack for killing Laurent.”

“Hmm. How big of a grudge?”

“Not big enough to stir up trouble, trust me.”

Jacob unknowingly tensed at her words as his jaw clicked. Reminded why things were so awkward in the first place, why he couldn’t look her in the eye.

Bella cringed, realizing her bad choice of words. “Jake… I miss you.”

“Don’t start this, Bella, not now—”

“Then when ?” Her voice cracked as tears shone in her brown eyes. “I’m gonna be dead to you soon, right?”

Jacob closed his eyes, dejecting. “Bella, I—I don’t know what you want me to say.”    

She sniffed. “Say you won’t forget about me.”

“What—”

“Twenty, thirty, or even fifty years from now. You’re gonna have a family, and one day this will be your wedding. You’re going to be still fixing on bikes, drinking warm soda, and telling your kids about the tales of the brave Quileute protectors. And I’m gonna be there… hiding in the shadows, cheering you on. Because I’ll never forget you, Jacob Black. And I need you to promise me that you’ll never forget me.”

Jacob’s throat tightened, and he blinked back tears. He didn’t know why he was crying. Whether it was the way her eyes looked the same way they did on that mountain where she confessed her love to him too late, or maybe it was the way her words and how they sounded like something his best friend, Bella Swan, would say. 

Either way, he still said, “I promise.”

Once the song ended, and an upbeat classic filled the area, Rachel interrupted with bubbly congratulations and childhood memories. Jacob took that chance to leave and collect his thoughts. He dragged his hands down his face as if trying to wipe the exhaustion away. 

A funeral disguised as a wedding, indeed. 

Away from the party, Jacob stood close to the tree line, listening to the trees brush against each other and the birds sing their last songs. 

A familiar scent made him stiffen and his fist clenched. 

“Crashing the party, are we, Samuel?”

Sam emerged from the trees’ shadows. His face set in its usual scowl and a defensive stance.

“I was going to ask you the same thing.”

“Tsk, tsk… see, I was invited. No crashing is needed. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a stunning woman to get back to.” He sent him a smug smile, turning around on his heels.

“This won’t end well for you.” 

Jacob stopped, then turned back slowly with a sharp stare. “And what are you implying, exactly?”

“You’re still in love with Bella. And because of your obsession, you’re going to break Leah’s heart.”

“Like you did?” 

Sam stepped closer, a growl in the back of his throat. “Don’t.”

Jacob narrowed his eyes. “You have some nerve, I give you that. What kind of ego trip are you riding on to make you believe that you have any say about Leah’s life.” 

Sam scoffed. “And you do?”

“No, I don’t.” Jacob only shrugged. “Leah’s damn near a grown ass woman, she doesn’t need me, or anyone telling her what to do. And she’s smart as hell to know what’s—and who’s— good for her. And you cannot stand that that isn’t you.” 

Before they realized they were a foot apart, their chest heaving and both of them itching for a fight. It was the bone-chilling realization that this land was too damn small for two Alphas. 

“Don’t forget your place, Jacob,” Sam seethed. “I would hate for you to remember the hard way.”

Jacob started to tremble, struggling to keep his wolf at bay. “You’re toeing a very, very thin line, Samuel. Be careful where you fall.”

Before blood could be shed, Sam reluctantly turned away at the whistle of either Paul or Jared. It was hilarious to think Sam brought back up just in case Jacob burned down the wedding. 

Maybe once upon a time ago. But not now, when I have….

Leah.

She still sat beside Seth with a bored expression weighing on her features. Her fingers toyed at the hem of her dress while she rested her head in her palm. 

Jacob sneaked behind her, making her jump slightly, but no one paid attention to them.

“Ready to leave this fucked up wedding?”

A smile grew on her lips.

“Hell yeah.”