Chapter 4

Zach blinked several times as Connell teleported him back to the island and patted him on the back.

"Good to see you and Tess working things out. She was pretty upset when Tia and I dropped her off in Barcelona."

"Yea, things got really messed up really fast. Now I just have to figure out what to say to Allie to get her to walk down the aisle to me."

"Aw, don't worry, lad. You two are mates. I am sure by the time all the guests are back, you two will be ready. If not, we will have to deal with the wrath of the wee one yet again and no one wants that. Maybe lead with that. When I was in The Guard, I found that fear was the biggest motivation for people to do what you want."

"Yea, I don't think that will work in this case," chuckled Zach and Connell shrugged.

"Well, good luck, sounds like you are going to need it," called Connell before teleporting out of the front yard of the main house.

"Worst pep talk ever," grumbled Zach as he took a deep breath and headed toward his and Allie's cottage. Seth spotted him as he passed the backyard of the main house and jogged over to him.

"You're back, how did it go with Tess? Mom said you went to go see her."

"Turns out she does love me, which was never something I expected to hear on my wedding day. I just don't know what to say to Allie. Everything that I think of doesn't seem to be enough. Any advice? I could really use some from my best man."

"Oh, you want some good advice about how to say you love Allie, the woman you already vowed to be with for eternity by turning into an immortal," asked Seth and Zach nodded.

"Yes," he exclaimed and Seth slapped him upside the back of his head.

"What was that for," screeched Zach in shock and Seth rolled his eyes.

"That is the dumbest thing I have ever heard in my life! No, correction, the dumbest thing was the whole Edward, Bella, Jacob, Renesmee, imprinting, wolf pack war thing that I was a part of because no one could just keep it simple. You are in love with Allie. You love Tess because she was the first woman you thought you could be in love with, but you are actually in love with Allie. It is the reason you went through all of that stuff with Drew, almost killed Sam in an alternate reality that was created by Asa, let Merek use your DNA to create a serum, and changed her in the first place. You are in love with Allie. You two are already connected forever. This wedding is just a technicality, so go get your mate, tell her the truth, and get married. It is simple. Why do people want to make things so complicated? Now, if you will excuse me, I need a cookie," rambled Seth and Zach looked at him in shock as he happily whistled and walked into the main house.

"Well tell me how you really feel," shouted Zach. He heard Allie's giggle and spun around to see her smiling lovingly at him as she walked down the stone path that led to their cottage. He raced over to her and she sighed in relief as he hugged her. She took in his scent and nuzzled his neck.

"I missed you," she whispered as she leaned her forehead against his and he grinned.

"I love you, nayeli. Look, I spoke with Tess and….." She cut him off with a passionate kiss and he tenderly kissed her back as he got lost in his mate. She reluctantly pulled away and sighed.

"I royally screwed up last night. Zach, I don't care about what happened with Tess. It doesn't matter. I love you so much and I was acting irrational. The truth is that I have always been jealous of Tess, but I tried my best to push it away. You are so perfect and I got scared that I didn't deserve you. I just felt this irrational hate for her and I shouldn't have let that blind me to how much I love you. I am so sorry."

"Nayeli, everything that we have been through has been fate. Things have fallen into place for us and I think sometimes we both forget that you are a newborn. You are going to struggle at times and we are both learning how to be mates. Look, I love you and cannot wait to marry you, but if you want to wait until after the newborn year is…." She kissed him passionately and he beamed with happiness.

"Does that mean no," he chuckled and she giggled.

"You are my mate and I am already yours completely. Let's get married, Cullen," she suggested and he sighed in relief.

"Good because I really didn't want to have to wait any longer. I love you so much and newborn or not, I have something to say because you need to hear it. Allison Uley, you are everything to me and no one will ever change that. Yes, I love Tess, but she can never mean to me what you do. You wanted me to figure out my feelings, so I have. I love you in the most important way. You are my mate and eternity is inevitable for us. Let's get married," he agreed and chuckled as she jumped into his arms. They both laughed as Alice darted over and jumped on them.

"Finally! You two took way too long to figure that out and cut it way too close. Alright, you will have time to make up later. We have a wedding to get ready for, so Allie, chop, chop," instructed Alice and Allie kissed Zach one last time before following Alice into the main house.

Carlisle and Esme were chatting with Marcus, Didyme, Charlie, and Sue on the balcony of the main house overlooking the water when Edward and Bella joined them. Edward laughed at their thoughts.

"Were any of you even worried for a moment," asked Edward and Marcus shook his head.

"Young lovers have spats, even mates, and I am impressed that Allison has not had more outbursts as a newborn. I had no doubt that the wedding would go on because their mate bond is strong," assured Marcus. Charlie shrugged as he sipped his orange juice.

"After dealing with you two, nothing surprises me anymore," admitted Charlie.

"Dad," laughed Bella and Sue nodded in agreement.

"Oh, sorry, we were supposed to be caught off guard by the couple that is already mated threatening to not get married? I thought we were only supposed to be surprised by vampire and pack wars now," teased Sue and Didyme giggled.

"I find that it depends on the size of the war and who is involved," added Didyme and Edward rolled his eyes.

"Ha, ha, you are so funny. I am more surprised that none of the guests were concerned, not even the pack," said Edward and Esme smiled sweetly at her son.

"After everything they went through with Evan and Callista, I believe the pack saw it as a tiff that would fizzle out soon enough. Besides, the rest of the guests are mates. They know how these things work, so while Zach and Allie were figuring things out, the party continued on. It was quite fun," said Esme.

"Well, the party is over for now and it is time to deal with the pixie in rare form. She is a bit high strung since she didn't meddle like she usually would, so beware," warned Bella and Charlie frowned.

"Now that's what actually surprised me. Since when does Alice not meddle? Did we miss something? I feel like we always miss something when we are gone," said Charlie and Edward pinched the bridge of his nose.

"It is a long story and honestly, I don't completely understand it yet," admitted Edward and Sue shrugged.

"Then we will let you have fun with that and we will go take a nice, long nap. Enjoy," said Sue as she and Charlie walked back inside. Bella shook her head in amusement.

"Remember when the very thought of drama concerned them," asked Bella and Edward winked at his mate.

"Why don't you go make sure Alice is not bouncing off the walls too much? I will be right there," suggested Edward and she kissed him.

"Wish me luck," she called and he chuckled. He sat down at the table with Carlisle, Esme, Marcus, and Didyme and focused in on Marcus's thoughts.

"And you are sure you are okay," asked Edward and Marcus nodded.

"Of course, if there is something to handle, we will let you know," he assured and Carlisle frowned as he and Esme shared a look.

"Is there an issue," questioned Carlisle. Didyme slipped her hand into Marcus's and shook her head.

"Just the vampire world being the vampire world, but nothing that we cannot handle," she informed.

"If you cannot, please let us know," said Esme and Marcus smiled appreciatively at them.

"We have it handled for now," replied Marcus. Edward sifted through their thoughts and shook his head.

"Alice hasn't seen anything either, so maybe you are right, Didyme, and there is nothing to see," informed Edward.

"Or maybe that is wishful thinking," added Marcus.

"Which means you think something is going on and that concerns you," said Carlisle.

"For most, even in our existence, there is nothing to see until something presents itself. However, after so many centuries in power, no matter how corrupt that power was, I have learned that waiting for something to present itself usually puts you on the defensive. Nothing of importance is happening at the moment, but we will be sure to alert you if something arises," Marcus said cryptically as he and Edward made eye contact.

"And we will do the same if Alice sees something," agreed Edward.

As the day passed, the guests made their way back to the island and everyone got ready for the wedding. While Zach, Allie, Josh, Natalie, and Tess felt the weight of the couple's issues, the rest of the guests paid it no mind. Seth beamed with pride as he tied Zach's tie for him and they got dressed in Zach and Allie's cottage.

"Perfect," said Seth and Zach hugged him.

"Thanks, big bro, for everything, except for the slap. That was just unnecessary."

"You know what's unnecessary? Trying to postpone a wedding, going to Spain to talk to Tess, and arguing over who loves who the most," said Seth and Zach slowly nodded.

"Okay, fair enough," agreed Zach with a chuckle. Josh entered the room and stuffed his hands into his pockets.

"Hey," said Josh.

"Hey," said Zach and Seth rolled his eyes.

"Alright, when you two finish with this, I will be in the living room. Try not to take too long, there is this wedding that we are supposed to be on our way to," informed Seth before walking out of Zach's bedroom. Josh sighed.

"Look, Z, about Tess…."

"I shouldn't have snapped at you over it. You were just trying to help and you are definitely a great best man. There was never a doubt in my mind that I would choose you and Seth because I couldn't choose one over the other. Seth is my big bro that helped me become who I am today. You are my best friend that I can't imagine not having my back. Thanks, J," said Zach as they did their secret handshake. Rosalie and Emmett smiled as they watched the two of them from the doorway.

"Aw, Rose, they are just so cute when they make up," teased Emmett.

"Very funny, dad," chuckled Zach.

"You ready," asked Emmett and Zach happily nodded. Josh winked at them.

"Alright, I am going to make sure everything is set. See you out there," said Josh before leaving. Rosalie watched her son and husband tease each other as Emmett made sure Zach's tuxedo was perfect. He fixed his son's tie one last time and Zach gave a spin.

"So, how do I look," he asked and Rosalie sighed.

"Like you are all grown up," she whispered and Zach hugged her.

"Aw, mom, don't look so sad." She shook her head.

"I am not sad, just….I remember the first time I held you in my arms. That seems like so long ago now."

"Just over seventeen years," he teased and she kissed his cheeks as he grinned.

"So much like your father," she teased back.

"Which is the best compliment you could ever ask for," assured Emmett as he hugged his son. Emmett and Zach walked to the door, but Rosalie did not budge.

"Mom, you coming," asked Zach as he held his hand out to her and she nodded.

"Yes, I am just suddenly very thankful I can't produce tears," she admitted and he kissed her forehead.

Emily grabbed another tissue and dabbed at her eyes as Alice and Natalie put the finishing touches on Allie's makeup and hair. Allie looked in the mirror and beamed with happiness.

"The dress is perfect. Thank you so much, Alice," said Allie and Alice hugged her.

"You look absolutely beautiful. We will give you three a moment," said Alice as Sam entered the room. Natalie winked at Allie.

"See you out there," she said and Allie winked back.

"Thanks for everything," said Allie. Sam gulped as he looked at his daughter in her wedding gown. He tried to clear away the lump in his throat as he slipped his hand into his wife's.

"Wow, you look amazing," said Sam and Allie hugged her parents.

"I know that this past year has been a whirlwind, but I am so happy right now and I want you both to know that I love you very much," she said as her mother cried and father held back his tears.

"All we have ever wanted is your happiness, Allie. You look so happy right now," cried Emily.

"I am," promised Allie and Sam kissed her forehead.

"I guess we should get out there then. There are a lot of people waiting to see you walk down the aisle," said Sam.

"I am sure there are, but I am only focused on one," she informed. Sam offered his arm to her and she wrapped her arm around his. Emily held her other hand and the three of them walked downstairs. Drew let out a low whistle when he saw Allie and she rolled her eyes.

"Really," she giggled and he nodded.

"You look stunning, Allie," complimented Drew. He offered Emily his arm and she wrapped her arm around his. Emily kissed her daughter's cheek.

"You are such a beautiful bride," said Emily before following Drew outside. Allie could hear Sam's heart racing and she smiled as she straightened his tie.

"You okay, dad," she asked and he nodded as he cleared his throat again.

"It is just hitting me, that's all. This is the last time you will be Allison Uley. Once you walk down that aisle, you will officially be Allison Cullen. I never expected this."

"Actually I will be Allison McCarty Cullen and I know what you mean."

"I love you, Allie."

"I love you too, daddy." She hugged him and he kissed the top of her head as the music started to play. She took in a deep breath and waited for her cue to walk down the aisle to the man she loved.

Rosalie took in a deep breath as the ceremony started and the bridesmaids and groomsmen made their way down the aisle. Her eyes never left her son as he waited for his bride. Seth and Kaya made their way down the aisle, followed by Natalie and Josh, and Renesmee and Nahuel. Rosalie could hear sniffling behind her and smiled when she saw how emotional Esme, Carmen, Tanya, Kate, and Zafrina were. Bella and Alice smiled at Rosalie and she put on a brave smile as well. Carlisle, Edward, Jasper, Garrett, Benjamin, Eleazar, and Keegan were beaming with pride. Rosalie was surprised when Leah grabbed her hand and she looked over at her friend.

"You okay," giggled Rosalie and Leah quickly nodded.

"Just freaking out a little and I am not sure if it is because Zach is like a son to me or I know Josh will be next," she whispered and Jacob sighed.

"A bit of both," whispered Jacob. Emmett wrapped his arm around his wife.

"How are you holding up, angel," he asked and Rosalie gulped as Edward began playing the piano and everyone stood up to wait for Allie's descent down the aisle. Alice felt love and serenity wash over her as Jasper wrapped her in his arms and the scene unfolded. It was just as Alice envisioned with red and white roses adorning the aisle and white, glowing lights sparkling around the tent. Allie headed down the aisle as twilight joined night and day and the sky twinkled with stars and faint purple streaks of the fading sunset.

All eyes were on Allie, except for Rosalie's. Her eyes were on her son as his dimpled grin was permanently in place and Allie made her way to him. In that moment, she swore her heart fluttered as memories of her son's milestones in life played through her mind. From the moment his eyes locked with hers when he was first born to the moment he hurled Seth into a tree and she realized he had a power. From catching him and Seth after they caused their first avalanche to watching him color with Josh for the first time. She remembered the first time he played piano for her and beat his father at wrestling. She reached for her mate's hand and Emmett kissed her forehead. She remembered Zach's laugh when she taught him how to waltz and the bright smile on his face when he learned to drive. She remembered the look in his eyes when he realized Allie was his mate and the pride emanating from him when he graduated from high school. It all led to that moment as her son smiled in awe of his mate and she walked down the aisle to him.

"Wow," whispered Zach and Allie smiled from ear to ear.

"You look pretty wow yourself," she whispered back, getting a chuckle out of him. Sam placed their hands together.

"Be good to one another," he said as they nodded. Zach kissed Allie's hands as everyone sat down.

"You okay," he whispered to her and she nodded without hesitation.

"I have no clue what I was so nervous about," she whispered back and he winked at her.

"I know the feeling," he assured. Carlisle began the ceremony and addressed the guests and happy couple. For Rosalie, it ended as quickly as it began, with the love and devotion evident in her son's eyes and excitement flitting through them when he said the words he yearned to say since he met Allie in La Push.

"I do, always and forever," vowed Zach as Allie smiled even more. Rosalie glanced over at Emily, who wiped more tears away. Emily glanced back at her and they shared an understanding in that moment as they watched their children vow to love each other for eternity.

"I do, always and forever," vowed Allie. Carlisle smiled at the couple as he proudly pronounced them husband and wife and they kissed. The place erupted with cheers and the pack hooted and hollered for them. Emmett hugged his wife and she rested her head against her mate's shoulder as they watched Zach and Allie happily walk down the aisle. Alice gasped and Edward looked over at her when she saw Asa gazing down at the scene from the shadows of the balcony of the main house. Edward followed Alice's gaze, but Asa already disappeared. They shared a smile and cheered even more for Zach and Allie as the couple was finally married.

The reception was joyous and exuberant as the happy couple laughed and celebrated with their family and friends. Allie danced with her father and Zach waltzed with his mother around the dance floor before everyone joined in on the dancing. After their dances were complete, Alice nudged Tess over to Zach and Allie and Zach glanced back and forth between his mate and Tess as the two women awkwardly stood in front of each other.

"I was wrong," admitted Allie as she held her hand out to Tess and Tess sighed in relief as she shook it.

"I respect your love and I am happy for the two of you, which is why I would still like for you to have this bracelet" offered Tess. Zach beamed with happiness as Tess placed the bracelet on Allie's hand.

"I don't deserve it after the way I treated you, but thank you," said Allie.

"I wish you two nothing but happiness and eternal love," said Tess and Allie kissed her mate.

"Why don't you two go dance," she suggested and Zach's eyes widened.

"Are you sure," he asked and she nodded.

"Yes," she said and he kissed her again before offering his hand to Tess. Natalie grinned at Allie as she walked over to her friend and they watched Zach and Tess dance.

"I am impressed," admitted Natalie.

"Now all you have to do is get Callista and Josh to dance and…."

"I'm going to say no, but thanks," interrupted Natalie as Allie laughed.

"It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be. I feel bad that I caused such a rift between them. Tess has been a great friend to him. It is the least I can do. Come on, I want to introduce you to Lexi. We are old friends," she informed and Natalie followed her over to Drew and Lexi. Zach sighed happily as he twirled Tess.

"I am really happy you are here, Tess."

"It was a beautiful wedding. You look quite handsome and Allie is a beautiful bride."

"It is going to happen for you. I just know it," said Zach and Tess frowned in confusion.

"What is?"

"You are going to find your mate and when you do, you won't have to worry about trying to understand how people describe mates, you will just know."

"Such a hopeless romantic," she teased and he chuckled as he shrugged.

"Takes one to know one," he teased back.

Evan and Callista were talking to Drew and Lexi when Allie and Natalie walked over to them. Josh joined them to keep an eye on his mate and Callista and Natalie avoided eye contact. Allie giggled and Natalie rolled her eyes.

"You are enjoying this, aren't you," grumbled Natalie and Allie happily nodded.

"Shoe, meet the other foot," announced Allie as the awkward tension crept in and Lexi frowned in confusion.

"Why do I have a feeling I walked into a mine field," asked Lexi and Allie smiled smugly.

"Oh, because you did, but don't worry. Once I get back from the honeymoon, I will be more than happy to catch you up on all of this," said Allie and Lexi giggled. Evan and Josh glanced at each other and Drew looked back and forth between the couples.

"We're going to go catch up with Esme," said Evan and Josh nodded.

"Good idea, make sure to grab some of those cookies," said Josh as Evan and Callista left and Drew sighed.

"That wasn't awkward at all," said Drew and Josh smirked.

"Yea, you wouldn't know anything about that. How long did you and the bride date before she met the groom," asked Josh and Natalie snickered.

"You just had to throw me under the bus with you, didn't you," asked Drew and Josh shrugged.

"Well, there was room," teased Josh.

Garrett, Kate, Tanya, Benjamin, Connell, Tia, and Zafrina watched in amusement as Keegan tried to explain the relationships of the pack and the rest of the Cullens to Micah and Titus.

"So Drew and Allie were dating, but that wasn't going to last long anyways because he got put up to it by her dad. Then Zach met her and realized she was his mate," explained Keegan.

"Was that before or after Evan and Callista mated after she was with Josh," questioned Micah.

"Before," said Keegan.

"But Tess and Zach never were a couple," asked Titus.

"Right, they have always just been friends….who kissed once," answered Keegan and Garrett smiled mischievously.

"Oh, Keegan, explain the Renesmee, Jacob, and Nahuel tension. That's a fun one," urged Garrett and Kate nudged him, but could not stop from laughing. Micah sighed in relief.

"Okay, I know about that one. Renesmee is the daughter of Edward and Bella. Jacob first tried to split up Edward and Bella, but after that didn't work, they had Renesmee and he did the wolf form of mating with Renesmee, but it didn't work out because she found Nahuel," said Micah and Titus slowly nodded.

"Has this coven ever not been complicated," questioned Titus. Emmett and Bella joined the group and Bella smiled smugly as Emmett spoke up.

"You're right. Our family is pretty complicated. By the way Ben, did you know about Alaska before you mated with Tanya or did you and Tia skip over that part of the world altogether? I always get that a bit confused," asked Emmett and Bella nodded.

"See, Em, that part is pretty clear to me. I just can't seem to remember if Tia moved to Ireland before or after she mated with Connell? Even with the vampire memory, I am a bit shaky with those details," added Bella and Garrett clapped for them.

"Oh, well played, well played, you two," complimented Garrett as Bella and Emmett bowed. Tia playfully glared at them.

"That was unnecessary," she giggled and Bella winked at her.

"But fun," teased Bella and Titus chuckled.

"Your covens are definitely entertaining," agreed Titus.

"In small doses," added Micah as Garrett and Keegan hugged her.

After hours of dancing and enjoying their time with their friends and family, Zach and Allie were ready to head to their honeymoon. They thanked everyone for coming and started saying goodbye to their guests before heading to the stealth jet. Zach excitedly started it up as Allie said goodbye to her parents. Emily and Sam hugged and kissed her as the others gathered around to see them off. Zach hopped from the jet and Rosalie giggled as he picked her up and twirled her around.

"See you in a couple of weeks, mom. I love you." She kissed his cheeks and sighed happily.

"I love you too, baby boy. Go have fun with your mate," she said and Emmett hugged his son.

"I made sure the walls were extra sturdy in the cottage since I am sure you take after your old man," whispered Emmett and Rosalie slapped him upside the back of his head.

"Emmett," hissed Rosalie.

"Dad," whined Zach and Seth chuckled.

"Have fun and I will leave it at that because I want to stay on mom's good side," said Seth and Rosalie smiled at him.

"You have always been smart," said Rosalie. Josh and Zach did their secret handshake and hugged.

"Don't try to beat my high score while I am gone, J. I am serious," warned Zach.

"Gavin already gave me some new cheat codes, so good luck catching up," taunted Josh and Zach chuckled. He hopped into the jet with Allie and they waved goodbye at everyone before departing.

Carlisle watched Zach and Allie leave before heading to the docks on the opposite side of the island. He could hear Tess sniffling and he smiled sympathetically as she stared out at the water.

"Are you okay," he asked as he approached and she quickly regained composure.

"Of course, I am fine. Even vampires can get emotional at weddings."

"Tess, I know it is more than that and it is okay if it is," he soothed as he hugged her and she shook her head in disbelief.

"I am just being ridiculous. Zach is not my mate, so I don't understand why I am so upset all of a sudden."

"Because you and I both know that vampires do not change easily and he created a change in you. You allowed yourself to feel something for him after telling yourself for years that you didn't need a companion. Besides, you cannot fool me. I know who that love token was originally for."

"I suppose there is no harm in letting you know. Yes, Carlisle, a part of me hoped that the love token would work in my favor when I gave it to him and maybe I can admit that when we kissed, I was hoping to feel the mate bond. When I didn't and left, I was heartbroken and it took me more time than I would like to admit to get over that, but I knew he was not my mate. I vowed to leave him be and start fresh, but when I heard that someone was requesting a summit with him, everything changed. I realized then that I rather be his friend than nothing at all, so I tracked down Merek."

"I have seen the change in you and I am proud of you, Tesla."

"Well, enough of that, I apologize for my emotional outburst. I hope I did not make you uncomfortable. I am aware that he is your grandson."

"I will always be here for you, Tesla," he assured and kissed her cheek. Alice arrived and winked at him.

"Esme is looking for you," informed Alice and he nodded.

"I will see you later," said Carlisle and Tess sighed as Alice smiled sympathetically at her.

"I do not need your pity," whined Tess and Alice wrapped an arm around her.

"It will get better. You know, my power ensures that I am not surprised by many people in this existence, but I didn't expect for you to grow so attached to my nephew."

"Well, he is an amazing young man. Anyone would love him."

"True, but maybe it is also a sign that you are finally ready to open your heart to someone," suggested Alice and Tess scoffed.

"Don't be ridiculous. That is nonsense."

"Tess, we all have someone out there for us, but not every vampire is lucky to find their true mate. Some try to force it, like Benjamin's creator, Amun. He was impatient and tried to force the mate bond for him with Kebi and Benjamin with Tia. It took time, but Benjamin found his way to Tanya and Tia found Connell. It happens all the time."

"I don't believe most of us are that lucky, so those looking for a companion do what they can to not feel alone in this existence."

"I don't think luck is as important as you may think. Benjamin and Tanya were brought together by fate, which Asa had more to do with. Tia and Connell got a nudge, or in Connell's case, a tackle in the right direction. Don't worry, Tess, I will be sure not to tackle you," promised Alice and Tess frowned in confusion as Alice grinned at her.

"I'm sorry, what," asked Tess and Alice shrugged.

"You should go mingle. Just because the bride and groom are off on their honeymoon doesn't mean the party is ending," suggested Alice.

"Alice, what….."

"Go mingle, Tess," urged Alice and Tess took in a shaky breath as realization dawned on her. She did as Alice said, but did not rush back. Instead, she walked at a human pace and used the time to regain her composure. When she reached the backyard, she was not sure what she was looking for and headed back toward the tent. As soon as she entered, Carmen called to her and her eyes widened when she saw Carmen and Eleazar speaking with the most gorgeous man she had ever laid eyes on.

He was taller than Eleazar and had a statuesque frame with a toned physique. He looked impeccably handsome in a black suit and white dress shirt. Some of the buttons of the shirt were undone, giving her a glimpse of muscular chest. His brown hair was not pristinely in place and she wondered how often he ran his hands through it. The scruff of his facial hair made his baby face a bit more rugged and his smile reached his golden eyes when he noticed her.

"There she is. Tess, come meet Nico. He is an old friend of ours from Spain. Nico, this is Tess, the woman I was telling you about," introduced Carmen and Tess gasped as their hands touched. Nico smiled even more and kissed the top of her hand.

"So this is the beautiful woman I have been hearing about. It is a pleasure to meet you, Tess," said Nico and she smiled at the hint of his Spanish accent.

"What part of Spain are you from," she asked.

"Valencia, but I travel quite often," he informed as their eyes locked. Carmen and Eleazar glanced at each other with knowing smiles.

"Tess was just in Spain," said Eleazar and Nico closed the distance between them.

"Would you like to dance, mi alma," he asked and if she was human, she would have blushed.

"Did you just call me your soulmate," she asked and he looked down nervously.

"I apologize. It must have slipped."

"No, I like it," she assured and he perked back up.

"Well, in that case, mi alma, may I have this dance?" She followed him onto the dance floor and Carmen winked at her mate.

"Told you," giggled Carmen and Eleazar kissed her tenderly.

"Always the matchmaker," he teased.

"And it helps when you can get a psychic involved," teased Carmen, knowing that Tess would no longer have to worry about her feelings for Zach.

Allie was giddy with excitement when Zach placed a blindfold over her eyes before they arrived at their destination. She could feel the jet landing, but was not sure where exactly they were.

"I know we are not too far from the island if we are already about to land," she said and he chuckled.

"Stop trying to guess. You are about to find out," he informed as he landed the jet and opened the door. He picked her up bridal style and carried her off of the jet. She could hear water in the distance and smell the ocean air. A familiar scent wafted past her.

"Zach, where are we," she asked and he put her down. He took off her blindfold and she gasped when she saw the beautiful cottage overlooking a cliff in Cape Flattery.

"How did you….when did you….Zach, this is perfect," she said as she showered him with kisses.

"My grandma and Aunt Alice have been working on it since I proposed. I wanted us to have a place where we could be away from everyone and this is the place you brought me when we first started dating and needed to get away. Do you like it?"

"I love it. I can't believe you did this for us. Wait, is that why you wanted to stay on the south side of Cape Flattery when we were last here?"

"Yes, the cottage was almost finished and I knew you would be able to tell it was ours if you looked inside."

"How did I get so lucky? I love you so much."

"I love you too and this place is all ours. There is no one around to bother us and we have plenty of privacy. We are officially on our honeymoon," he announced and she passionately kissed him. She giggled as he picked her back up and darted into the cottage, ready to finally become lost in one another again.

Alice sighed happily as she sifted through her visions and saw Tess and Nico in Spain. She sat down on the docks and closed her eyes to concentrate on her visions. The sound of the ocean tended to calm her and she wanted to be as relaxed as possible as she focused her energy on the future. Suddenly, the sound of the ocean ceased and her eyes snapped back open. All outside noise was gone and she hopped to her feet when Asa appeared. Alice squealed with delight and Asa giggled when Alice happily hugged her.

"It is you! I was hoping you didn't leave right away! Wasn't the wedding beautiful," exclaimed Alice.

"Usually when people see me, they are bit more surprised. Hello, Alice," said Asa and Alice beamed with happiness.

"Hello, it is about time you came. I have been trying for months."

"Yes, you are extremely persistent, impressively so."

"So does that mean you could hear me calling you the whole time?"

"I watch over this world and the paths that will unfold in it, Alice. I have heard you."

"Then why didn't you come?"

"Because you need to learn to let things unfold. You cannot control everything."

"Isn't that a bit ironic coming from you?" Asa giggled.

"I do not control the world. I see it and on rare occasions, I guide it, but the reason this existence works is because I understand something you are just beginning to."

"Let me guess, since you have apparently blocked my visions of this conversation, this is where you tell me that patience is a virtue and with great power comes great responsibility and how I need to learn how not to meddle. Right," rambled Alice and Asa placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. Alice instantly relaxed as soothing warmth washed over her.

"No, I understand why you are so adamant about involving yourself in every path you see. You want what is best for your family. Your love for them is infinite and it keeps you grounded, but I understand that in order for this existence to work, beings with the ability of foresight cannot always interfere. We must allow everyone to make their choices or free will becomes null and void. Without free will, the beauty of this existence will dissipate. You must allow for life to play out."

"Even when it means something or someone may harm my family," questioned Alice.

"No, I would never expect that from you. Your free will could never allow that to happen."

"Aren't you taking away my free will by blocking my visions? I know you are still blocking certain paths."

"I am impeding you from doing more harm than good, even when I know your intentions are always to help. This existence is not a chess match where you place people on certain paths because you think it would be best for them. It is a journey, Alice. You are on this journey just like every other being and you need to embrace that. There will be times for you to step in and times for you to allow paths to play out. That is what you must learn."

"Like with Josh and Callista, I could have stopped him from meeting her, but he needed to learn from his mistakes."

"Precisely, it is not your place to choose what paths people will be on. I understand helping them, but there is a thin line between helping and manipulating."

"I suppose that is true. That's why I didn't give Zach a heads up about Allie's issue with Tess."

"And why you didn't tell Zachary that Tesla had such strong feelings for him from the beginning. As your power grows, so will your control and patience."

"My power is growing?"

"It has grown for quite some time now and you have known that for a while. There was a time when you could not see around shapeshifters at all or your niece, but now you can. Powers expand and adjust to a certain extent, but more importantly, you learn and grow with them. And yes, that means patience will be necessary and the weight of the power you hold does need to be considered at all times. You have an amazing gift, but knowing what may happen is not what makes you wise. Your wisdom comes from the choices you make based on those visions."

"I know I can be overzealous sometimes," admitted Alice.

"Yes, but it is all a part of your journey. You see what you need to see, so maybe you can focus on that instead of obsessing over what I am impeding. Do that and you will be just fine. Fare thee well," advised Asa as she turned to leave.

"Wait, when will I be able to see Zach's future? I already know he will lead the vampire world. He told me," revealed Alice and Asa sighed.

"You truly are persistent, you know that?" Alice shrugged.

"Neither of us need our powers to know that about me. I just want to make sure everyone in my family will be okay."

"Fine, I will show you a glimpse of the future, but no paths. It is not your choice to make when it comes to Zachary's future. Seeing too much and trying to force something to happen will only hinder him."

"I promise not to do that. I will only guide him when I can, but I know he has to make his own decisions. I have to show restraint sometimes. I get that," promised Alice and Asa held her hand out.

"Of course you do, it is part of your journey. Now take my hand," instructed Asa and Alice gasped when she placed her hand into Asa's. Visions swirled in her mind. She saw Zach and Allie. She saw her family. She saw a ceremony with Zach and Allie bowing down in front of Marcus and Didyme. She blinked several times as the visions faded.

"When does that happen," questioned Alice.

"When it needs to, it will unfold. How it happens is of no concern to you at the moment."

"Thank you for showing me that. It felt so strange having so much of my family know something so important without me. I just want to be helpful and keep everyone safe."

"You are always helpful to them, but you don't have to know the future to be a part of your family. I understand your need to always play an important role in the family. Your human family was not worthy of your love and kindness. They did not believe in you and you fear that your family will not love you as much if you cannot use your ability to help them. That is not true though. They love you because of who you are, not what you can do. Even without your ability, that would not change."

"Thank you for coming to speak with me." Asa bowed her head.

"Of course, now go spend time with your mate and family. Embrace your journey, Alice Cullen. Let your mind and visions rest, you will have plenty of time to obsess over the future later."

"And I will have to soon, won't I," questioned Alice.

"What do you mean?"

"I think you know exactly what I mean. I took Eleazar's advice and started listening to my instincts more instead of always being guided by what I see. I don't see a path that shows an imminent threat, but I feel it sometimes," revealed Alice and Asa smiled knowingly at her.

"Of course you do, you are growing with your power. It relies on the ability of your paths to intersect with the paths of other beings. That is how you receive your visions, but your awareness can expand beyond that when harnessed properly. Eleazar's ability will continue to help you hone yours."

"My instinct is telling me that something or someone is coming. I don't know when though. There is nothing in our paths. Zach and Allie will enjoy their honeymoon and the family will be at peace, but I can sense it. Asa, what are you trying to tell me? You didn't just come here to tell me to be patient. What is it you want me to know?"

"You are correct. I came to see you because I need you to understand that you have everything within you that you need. You rely so much on your ability, but your true power goes far beyond that. Your instinct is right, Alice. Something is coming and it will test you, all of you, more than ever before."

"What is it?"

"I cannot say."

"That is ridiculous! You came here for a reason! You created Zach, you showed him his future, you did all of this for a reason and now you say something like that, but don't want to give me any details? That is absurd," shouted Alice.

"Maybe, but it is also free will. I am not here to show you every adversary you could ever face or tell you what to do. I am not here to control your path, Alice. I am here to guide you. Follow your instincts. Your visions will catch up soon enough."

"How soon? You just showed me this amazing future for my family and now are telling me someone could threaten that? When?"

"I cannot say, but you have seen what the future will hold and I promise that it will be done. How and when are of no concern to you. I will tell you this, Zachary will rule someday. As for your instinct, I said he would rule someday. I never said there would not be challenges along the way. Fare thee well and remember that your strength goes beyond your visions," advised Asa and before Alice could ask another question, she disappeared into the night. Jasper hurried over to his mate and pulled her protectively into his arms.

"Darlin,' are you okay? I saw you with Asa, but I couldn't get to you. It was like she was shielding me from you or something." She hugged him.

"I am okay, Jazzy," she assured, but he eyed her carefully.

"Your emotions are sporadic. You seem blissful, and yet a bit concerned about something," said Jasper and Alice closed her eyes. She sifted through her visions and saw what she had seen since the day began. Zach and Allie were happily on their honeymoon, Rosalie and Emmett were on their way to Paris, Edward and Bella were hunting, Esme and Carlisle were headed to London, Renesmee, Nahuel, Kaya, and Seth were headed to South America to see Huilen, the Denalis were headed back to Alaska, Josh and Natalie were headed to Vancouver, Jacob and Leah were in La Push, the pack was home, and Connell and Tia were back in Ireland. She searched every path she could see and found nothing but happiness.

"As far as I can see, everything is wonderful. Let's go meet with Peter and Charlotte in Oregon. They are heading up the coast in California right now."

"Are you sure," asked Jasper as he detected a hint of hesitation. She took in a deep breath and inhaled her mate's scent as she closed her eyes again. A faint, but nagging anxiety flitted in her mind, but no vision accompanied it. She pushed the thoughts away and nodded.

"Yes, there is nothing to worry about at the moment." She kissed him tenderly before leading him back to the main house to pack for their trip. He could sense there was more than she was telling him, but knew she would reveal what was on her mind when she felt the time was right.

Thousands of miles away, the nomad ignored the sound of the wind picking up as he finished feeding on the human in the dark alleyway he trapped him in. He grabbed the jacket and shoes of the lifeless human before disposing the body in a nearby dumpster.

"Resourceful," called a female voice and the nomad spun around, but saw no one. He scanned the area, but could not detect anyone near. He was about to leave, but the voice echoed around him again.

"You better remove the phone from the jacket so they can't track you. Wouldn't want to get caught and create a scene, you shouldn't give the Volturi a reason to eliminate you," she warned and he gulped as he felt the phone in the jacket pocket. The nomad tossed it in the dumpster.

"Who are you? What do you want from me," called the nomad out into the night air and suddenly a pale woman appeared from thin air. He shrieked and she cackled at the noise.

"I never get tired of that response, especially from our kind. It is rare to catch us completely off guard." He looked her over and noticed her red eyes. Her hair was fiery red and elegantly glided down past her shoulders. She sauntered over to him in her leather boots that clicked against the asphalt. He could tell she was not a nomad because of her hooded leather jacket and black, skin tight jeans. She was too well dressed to be a nomad.

"What do you want? I have broken no rules. There is no need for the Volturi to be here." She laughed.

"Oh, I am not the Volturi. I simply have a proposition for you. I know you live in fear of the Volturi, like many of us do. If you practice the natural way, you can easily become a target. So, many of us are turning to animal blood, such a disgusting choice."

"I agree, but how did you find me?"

"I search for those that are unhappy with the way things are. How would you like to live in a world where the rulers not only embraced the natural way, but encouraged it again?"

"That is impossible. The Volturi will never go back."

"I said nothing about the Volturi. You see, they don't have to be the rulers. There are many that feel like we do and are willing to finally take a stand, a revolt of sorts." He scoffed at that notion.

"You must be crazy if you really think you can take on the Volturi! They are far too powerful now and so are the Cullens. I shouldn't even be talking to you about this. Just being involved in this conversation is dangerous with Alice Cullen around to see me, so unless you found a way to block the psychic, I am not interested in joining your army. Better than you have tried and failed spectacularly." He gulped as she glared at him. He could not detect why, but her stare was unnerving.

"Two things, one, we prefer the term coalition. Army sounds so archaic. Two, if you are worried about Alice Cullen seeing us, then I assure you, I have that covered."

"You and what army, I mean coalition," he mocked and she smiled devilishly at him as she disappeared before his eyes. He gasped as she reappeared again.

"Just me, it is hard to keep track of what you can't see. Now, let's have a chat about that coalition," she suggested with a smile and he smiled back as he shook her hand.

To Be Continued….

AN: I know, it is a cliffhanger, but I hope you enjoyed! Let me know what you think!