Chapter Nineteen

Ace

When I awoke Jasper told me of who was coming. He told me their back stories and I was little worried if we'd get along. Kate, from the Denali's was my biggest fear. One reason for this was she'll be here very soon, the other is she's too close to the Cullens.

Jasper assured me she doesn't really like them, not as much as her sisters. She finds Tanya's gooy-ness for Edward disgusting so she tends to stay away. Tanya is also best friends with Alice and Rosalie. Kate hates Alice and her perky-ness.

Lastly...shes a girl. Working vampire lady parts and more than likely stunningly beautiful. I know Jasper wouldn't...but where we even boyfriend and girlfriend, to him? That doesn't even sound right to think. Boyfriend? For Jasper? It needs something more permanent.

The need to ask him was to strong, it made me act rashly. I lept up from drawing at my desk, running to Jasper's room which was the one closest to mine. I peeked my head into the door. Jasper's things that were in storage, had been brought down by a helpful Peter. I was shocked by the site. The bookshelves we had recently arranged, made the walls near invisible, his desk was in the back of the room covered in drawing tools and a desktop computer.

The entire color scheme was natural woods, and the walls where a creamy beige that was almost light brown. It was peaking from under the in bookshelves that were lined with books, and the posters. AC/DC, Guns'n'Roses, Johnny Cash, Posion, Rolling Stones, and several other playbills. Original playbills!

"Flies will get in ya know."

"Huh?"

"Your mouth, you should close it."

"Oh! Sorry it's just are those originals?" I said as I walked into his room fully.

"Yes, most of them were seen with Peter and Charlie when I saw them that is, we always had good times. Alice only met them once, she said she never wanted to see them again. Charlotte was very...volitile to her. Made it worse when I couldn't stop laughing."

I giggled. "I wish I could have seen at least one of them."

"I wish you could have too. We would of had such a blast. Hey do you wanna get out of here today? Um...Peter and Charlotte keep being..." He wiggled his eyebrows suggestively at me.

"Eww."

"Yeah, imagine feeling it annnnd hearing it."

"Ewwwww."

"Exactly. Come on, we can explore Billings some more. Take you out to eat maybe. If you want." He smiled at me.

"Like a date?" I asked suddenly remembering my purpose for intruding his room.

"Yeah." He looked desperately nervous, head down, hands shoved into his pockets.

"I'd like that."

"Yeah?"

"I hope that isn't your only word today." He chuckled. I skipped from his room and into mine to get better dressed. By better dressed I meant not ratty sweats.

Nice dark jeans, blank tank that had a lace back and a grey and black flannel I stolen from Jasper. I wore my favorite black lace up boots thats had only slight heel. I skipped a coat. Montana was chilly, but not as cold as Forks could get. It was spring after all.

"Ready?" Jasper asked from behind the door, his voice muffled.

I opened it and walked out."Born ready."

We took Peter's truck much to his dismay, but that earned a loud whack to the back on his from Charlotte. We walked around the more close together areas and found a diner that looked okay to eat at. We sat in that back I ordered a burger and fries while Jasper said his stomach hurt to the flirty waitress.

I grinned once she was gone."Don't think they have any O neg?"

"Naw, they might have that but I prefer AB positive." My blood type. He grinned wickedly at me.

We chatted lightly about maybe him having the waitress for lunch or seeing if they have in live chickens until my food came. Which I had promptly gained the courage for a perfectly timed-"Am I your girlfriend?" I blurted it out without really thinking.

She left my plate and hurried off.

"Do you want to be?"

"Do you want me to be?

"Yes, very much so. I can't really explain it either, it's just...there now. Ever sense you kissed me...You've been my best friend since the moment I came back, but I never wanted to ruin that."

"We can't ruin that. It wont happen, I promise. I'll always be here for you cowboy." He chuckled shaking his head, eyes alight with amusement.

Our moment of seriousness was over and we were back into our strange dark humour and easy flow of conversation. After my late lunch we went out to see a movie. The movie proved to be terrible but it was incredibly fun to make fun of it. Although we did get yelled at by a person because apparently they thought it was actually good.

It was night when we were driving home, I pushed up the center front seat that could be used as an arm rest, which was to my shock very cool and moved closer to Jasper. My head was on his shoulder. Everything was perfect, until.

Jasper hit the brakes hard.

I was in complete panic mode. "Whats wrong? Is there something out there? " He got out of the truck slowly.

"Don't get out of the car! Thats what the person in the damn movie did and he got killed!"

"Vampire Bella. And it ain't nothing dangerous. Come here." He hooked a finger in a come hither way and slid out the driver's side. In the middle of the road was a dog. A scrawny young dog.

"Ohhh." I came closer to it and it looked scarred, backing away slightly. I got on my knees and beckoned for it to come closer.

"Careful Bella, it may try to nip you."

"Oh please it's a baby, come here sweetie." I whistled and called it sweet things. It slowly etched closer, Jasper got down by me.

"Come here boy, it's ok." I could feel he was calm but I didn't think he was using his gift.

"Your not using you gift?" I whispered.

"Knowing you, you'll want it, but I dont want it if it fears me." He said just low enough for me to hear.

I reached my hand out slowly. The dog sniffed my hand then poked it with his nose. It got really close then and began licking my face. "Awwww." I petted his ears and rubbed his body, which desperately needed food. I felt his ribs, and it gave me a creeped out feeling.

Jasper gently petted his ears only once and the dog switched from attacking my face to his.

"Well aren't you a good little boy?" He was chuckling and petting it lovingly. It was the sweetest damn thing I had ever seen.

"We should go back to Billings and take him to the vet, we're not far. He needs food anyway."

"Good idea. Peter is gonna take my arm off for letting him in the truck."

"He can deal with me." I said with venom in my voice. Jasper grinned. After our trip to the vet we came back with one hundred dollars less and a doggy that we have yet to name. The vet gave us flea stuff and gave the dog his shots which he didn't like that much at all. We bought the food there as well so we didnt have to go anywhere else tonight.

When we got home we took him straight to the bathroom, he reeked and was muddy. We were completely soaked after that adventure. We both were sitting across from each other the dog between us shaking it's coat dry. Both laughing and hiding our faces from the shower that we were recieving. He had kept leaping out of the tub, clearly not liking the water.

"He needs a name." I said.

Jasper began drying him with the towel. That's when we both noticed the little black shape on his chest. He was a beautiful German Shepard, not full though, maybe part rotweiler, he needed alot of weight, he was also only around 7-8 months.

At the same time we said "Ace." That little shape was of that you'd see on a deck of cards. Perfectly formed and standing out on his chest now that he was clean. He had a name then. We grinned at each other, Peter choose this moment to burst in the door.

"Why does it smell like-" He cut off as Ace starting barking and growling at him.

"No! Ace!" I grabbed for him.

"Down." Jasper commanded and he cooled his engines instantly, sat down and stared at Peter. "Good boyyy!" He loved him up and rubbing his back with the towel some more."Smart boy.." I could see the wheels turning in his head of how much he could teach him.

I grinned hugely.

"Ok..did I really just get scarred by a little mutt?"

"Don't call him that!" I hated when people called mixed dogs that.

Charlie was in the door. "You got a dog?" Her small hands were on her curvy hips and her eyebrows were threatening to join her hair line.

"He was in the middle of the road on our way back."

"He's staying. And Peter?" Jasper said calmly. Too calmly.

"Yes bro?"

"Don't call him a mutt ever again. His name is Ace." His voice was just slightly lethal.

"For the love of all that's holly! You guys are together for 2 days and already have a kid. Bro's before hoe's. Bro's before hoe's." He sad sadly, turned, flipped his hair back and strutted off like a model. My eyes went huge as Peter disappeared and Charlotte giggled off.

"Are you sure he ain't just slightly-"

"Batting for the other team?"Jasper interupted.

"Yeah."

"He thinks he's adorable, and unlike most, but that I mean everyother guy, prides himself in it. I told you he was crazy, I didn't lie."

"THATS NOT WHAT YOU SAID LAST NIGHT!" Peter's voice bellowed for my benifit. My eyebrow slowly rose in question of Jasper. He splashed me with a waterfall of soapy dirty water and the battle was on again.

That night after he wolfed down two bowls of dog food, Ace slept between Jasper and I on the bed. He snored. It was adorable.

Jasper was my boyfriend...we had a dog..I felt like Jasper was close to realizing what we were. Maybe..maybe I could ask Peter to talk to him. Peter was silly, and nothing but a ball of laughs, but he was a good guy, and deep down under the scars, sarcasm and perfectly toned body. Peter was a sweet heart and I needed help. Maybe he could make Jasper question a few things. He just wasn't putting the pieces together.

Chapter Twenty

Embarrassment

When I awoke the next morning Jasper was on the floor with Ace. I grinned down at them.

"Good Mornin' Isa." He flashed up and kissed me roughly but some how still sweet. I pulled up closer to me, and he let me, not like I could pull him down by myself. Then I suddenly realised I just woke up. I let out a small scream.

Jasper moved off me alarmed as I ran to the bathroom. "Morning breath!"

His chuckles echoed through the house.I decided to just go ahead and take a shower, attempting to wash away all the embarrassment. As I lathered my hair in grape smelling shampoo a horrible thought popped into my head. I had no clothes. I hadn't brought any with me on my little run to the bathroom.

After I finished up I wrapped the huge white fluffy towel around me. Well atleast it was large, my room was closest to the bathroom as well. I fast walked to my room, closed my door a leaned against. Safe. I opened my closed eyes to see Jasper staring at me still on the floor. Mouth hanging open. His eyes were dark, not just dark pitch-black. He got up slowly , and in a predator to prey way walked to me. Stiff backed, his eyes never leaving mine.

I shivered, the warmth of the shower had my skin hot, the cool air of my room effecting me. May of been an effect of his peircing black eyes as well. He leaned forward, his hand moved behind me, opening the door making me stumble slightly since my full weight was resting against it. And he was gone, completly disappeared. The closed loudly behind him since I was still supporting myself against it. I slid down the door and tried to calm my self.

I thought for a second, that things were going to get a hell of a lot more serious. Not that I would mind, but Edward always told me it was dangerous to be...intimate... with a human. Intercourse was off the table with Edward. I snickered. Intercourse. He actually called it that. I being my very much virgin self was thankful now, that I hadn't given it to him. That he didn't allow it.

I want to be with Jasper, but not now. I'm not ready. Everything moved so fast, in a span of a little over four weeks my entire life has changed. I have yet to call my Dad during this. My truck has disappeared though, I had a feeling they just didnt want to tell me yet and thought I knew. We had talked about it once, I told them my idea in a detached voice and they were surportive and kind.

Ace started licking my face then. "Hey boy." I scratched his ears and got up to get dressed.

While getting dressed I thought about our new house guest that would be showing up sometime today. I zipped up my dark green fleece sweater, and called Ace to go outside with me, bringing the tennis ball Jasper gave him.

The back had a small porch that had steps to lead out into the back yard. I sat down there and taunted Ace with the ball before throwing it the best I could. He took off like a bullet. He really was a fast learner. He listened to anything Jasper told him, all I was kisses and tackles.

He brought back the ball faithfully but he had a little issue letting go. "Let go Ace." Drop. The ball plopped from his mouth. Wow. Does he listen to anything you tell him? I never had a dog before. Mom was allergic.

I contained to throw the ball for him, I wasn't hungry this morning I was to busy worrying about things. From Jasper and I to the impending sense of doom. It all came down to one method that would help for everything. Turn me. I wanted to be a vampire, I wanted the speed, I wanted to strength, I wanted to live forever, I wanted to truly be a part of the Whitlocks, I wanted to protect Jasper. I wanted to make sure he would be okay in this upcoming battle.

Screw being older, that was just a cop out for me being a chicken. I feared the bloodlust, I feared not being able to have control over myself. I could do it. I know I could. I had to. I ran with vampires, bout time I became one.

I sensed Jasper and Peter walking out of the tree line then. I looked at them to confirm then looked away quickly and played with Ace once again.

I was embarrassed for showing my emotions so much to him. I hadn't exactly had hidden my feelings for him in that moment. He clearly couldn't be with me like that. That's why he left.

Or maybe he didn't want you that way.

No! He wanted me..his eyes. It was hunger..I felt it from him, he tried to hide it, but it was there. I didn't know why I could feel what he was feeling. Maybe I should mention it.

"Hello." Jaspers deep voice said. I felt him more that saw him sit besides me. My shaggy hair was in my face, my bangs had gotten long. My hair always grew so fast. I liked it like this. Just to the shoulders and straight, glossy black that was choppy in lengths. Except it wasn't straight today. Was to worried to care. I sighed and wondered if he was going to say anything else.

Chapter Twenty One

Finnally

Note: Jasper's point of view, picks up from when he ran from the room.

I ran from the house, I kept running, I didn't stop until Peter tackled me in the deep mountain woods of Montana. I was going to do something that wasn't proper. Not be with her for the first time, sweet and full of love, possibly after marriage like I wanted out first time to be. At that moment, my monster threatened to make it's self known to her. This uncontrollable need to claim her ran through my frozen veins like wild fire. Except it didn't hurt like the fire of burning, it ached. I ached to have her close to me. That close to me.

"Cool your engines man! " Peter said breathlessly, like he really got tired.

"I had to get out there! She was- and I- I wasn't going to stop!" I was at a loss for words to explain my actions.

"But you did."

"To close Peter, she isn't ready for that. I could have really hurt her. "

"You can't hurt Petal. You never will bro." He clasped a hand on my shoulder. "It's strong aint it? That feeling to claim her. Ah I remember with Charlotte it was horrible, and we had to keep it quite. I didn't want anyone else but her, I couldn't let anyone go near her. You know what I was like. You know what it's like."

"Your mates with Charlotte, though."

"I'm mates with Charlotte." He gave me the are you retarded look. I frowned. What was he saying? Criptic bastard.

He did a face palm and dramatically fell to the forest floor. "What is wrong with you?" I asked, completly puzzeled.

"WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU? Your so emo and all that but you can't realise your own emotions. It's messed up bro. Alice and Maria sure messed with your head. I thought you were better, that me and Char helped a little, but we haven't, have we? Bro if I have to spell it out I will, but I wanted you to figure it out on your own."

My own emotions?

Mates with Charlotte.

That feeling to claim her.

Protective.

"FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THAT HOLLY!" My hands went to my hair that was now getting maybe a little too long."I'm an idiot aren't i?"

"Yes, yes you are. "

"Does she know? She can't know. How would she."

"She knows. "

"WHAaaaat?

"Charlotte. They talk, but as far as Char told me Bella was already havin feels' bout ya. Took it way to calmly. "

"Why hasn't she said anything to me?" Why? Why wouldn't she tell me.

"She wanted you to love her for her. Not because she's your mate. She didn't tell Char that, but I just know." I thought that over trying to remain calm.

"You know, you and her should start paying me and Char for your therapy sessions."

"Piss off bro."

I got up and he followed me. "I'll tell her tonight, after Kate and her are introduced."

"OH! Char told me thats shes a little worried about Kate."

"Charlotte has no reason to be-"

"Not Charlotte, Petal, shes worried about her being here."

"Why? I told her she wont hurt her."

"Single female bro. "

I stopped dead in my tracks. "Shes worried about me leaving her for someone esle?"

"And that you dont wanna get jiggy with it. Not told, but one of those just knows, she was going to talk with me, but she didn't need too." I was silent the rest of the way home.

I walked up to her she was seemingly on the outside content, but on the inside it was like she came to some revaluation.

"Hello." I said simply and sat beside her. I admired her, for the first time since finally knowing she was my mate. This girl I had stared at from across the room for a year. Wondering why she dosen't fear me and why she stares back at times. The girl that instantly became my best friend and sole person I could confide in.

God she was beautiful. The true essence of woman. Strong, fierce and fiery. Her black hair that was getting longer, they shade looked great on her. It was messy curls at the moment. Her ivory face was clear of any imperfections and had no makeup at this time. So perfect.

I moved my hand to her hair moving it from her face, she turned her cheek into my palm. I stared at her lips and projected what I was feeling at her. She gasped slightly, I took that moment to kiss her, and to kiss her fully. She tasted so divine. I didn't thirst for her blood anymore. Not after tasting her kiss. Just at this moment of course I heard Kate approaching. I released her mouth and kissed her lightly once more.

"I hear Kate." I grabbed her hand and held it gently.

"Ace!" She called, he came bounding forward. "Go to our room and stay." He looked at me as if to ask should I?

"Go on boy." He jogged his way into the house and I followed his footsteps with my ears until I heard him make it to our room, and jump on the bed. Our room?

"Our room?" I asked grinning ear to ear. She blushed crimson and smiled at me.

"So this is what you wouldn't tell me?" Kate said suddenly ten feet from us. Damn I could loose track of time staring at her.

"Yes, I couldn't have the Cullens know she was here. " She looked confused. And then to my shock, Bella started telling her story. I chimed in when needed but patiently waited until she was finished before I told her of the newborns that were now after her. Once we were completely finished Kate looked thoughtful.

"Why would they leave you? I can't understand why they'd leave you." She sat down on the ground cross legged. "I'm Katrina, or Kate by the way."

"I wasn't Edward's. " She glanced at me, then quickly looked back to Kate."Isabella, or Bella."

"He couldn't read your mind?"

"She can block me too. And I have this feelin' Alice can't see'er anymore." Bella looked a little shocked at the last part. "Alice is a bitch sometimes, but she would have seen Laurent. She still loves you."

Kate held out her hand for Bella. No. No. A growl erupted from my chest before I could stop it. "I'll put it on low Jasper!"

"Taiser right?" Isabella said with a grin. She held out her hand without a trace of fear. Kate grasped it and nothing happened. Nothing at all.

"Hmmm..."She looked thoughtful and something was brewing in her head."You said she can protect herself but what about others?" She let go of her hand and grabbed my arm.

I groaned in the bad way and attempted to remain still, but my body betrayed me as the waves of the current of electricity shook my body.

"STOPPPPPPPP!" Bella screamed a blood curdling scream and grabbed my other arm. The pain ended instantly. Kate hadn't stopped, she still had that look, and I could feel a tickle. Bella was completely focused and staring at Kates hand. Her eyes had a far away look it reminded me of the look Alice had during a vision.

She was shielding me as well. Kate let go and smiled largely. "You did it." I said in complete shock. "You did it." Pride full in my voice this time. I kissed her then and she kissed me back giggling.

"I HAVE A SUPER POWER!" She jumped up and danced up to the porch where Peter and Char was.

"What could we call you?" Peter said thoughtfully.

"Hmm..."She tapped her chin with her finger. I took her outfit in then. New purchase. Bright light blue pants and a black shirt under her green sweater. " All I know is, I want a cape."

Peter chuckled and Charlie giggled.

"OH! By the way, we have a dog, dont eat him." Bella said before she called out, "ACE!"

His clumsy awkward puppy legs ran through the house and tackled Bella to the floor of the porch where she hugged him nearly to death. All he did was lick her and wag his tale violently. The dogs love for her was strong. The thing even loved me. It didn't care for Peter and Charlotte much. They didn't like him. He knew that.

"Eww. Jasper you've changed."

"Naw, he's showing you the real him." Bella said through giggles.

"Don't know how you could let that damn beast do that, but hey you did just kiss Jasper, thats pretty foul. " Bella glared at Peter and as if she could really do anything he actually got afraid.

"Your really afraid?" I said between my laughter.

"Man! The tiny thing is going to get a bic!" Peters senses must of been letting him in on Bella's plans.

Bella's evil grin confirmed and sent all of us into howling laughter.

That began a very good evening, Bella and Kate got to know eachother more. They liked eachother. Looked like we had three girls now. I would have loved if Kate stayed permanently, but I didn't know if she would leave her sisters.

Later that night we were back in our room. I decided I was going to turn my room into a study, I'd move her books to the study and move my cloths here.

But now I needed to tell her what I had learned today. At the moment she was at her desk, Ace at her feet, while she drew. I moved behind her and kissed the back of her neck. "You've been hiding something from me."

"You know dont you? When you walked up today...I felt what you sent me and how you were feeling."

"We're mates." I stated and looked into her eyes in awe of her. Still surprising me. Sometimes I thought she'd have a gift like Peters, but with todays experiment she was definatly a shield. She just observed and learned.

She smiled so widely, her emotions were a heavenly mix of joy, love, contentment and relief. She'd been waiting for me to learn this. I kept her waiting and for that I was deeply sorry. Suddenly her lips were on mine and I got lost in her. We got carried away on the bed for a bit, but didn't cross that line. I tried to make her know she was wanted, I was to chicken to bring that conversation up tonight. I to, was embarrassed from earlier.

Chapter Twenty Four

Turning Point

More people would be arriving today, I wondered if they'd go just as good as Kate did. I was now eating breakfast, on the porch, watching Jasper play with Ace. Well more train him. That dog was the smartest little thing. I guess he had to be, he hung out with vampires and a silly human. He had to learn quick. I think it was fate that brought us to him. He fit in great, even Peter had forgave him for "reeking up his baby". He was trying, Ace wasnt. He liked Jasper and I. Not so much anyone else. He was scared of them, so that made him defensive.

Garrett would be arriving today. He knew Jasper from when he was human. I wish I had. I wish I could see a sun kissed, sweaty human Jasper working in the field... Maybe my day dreams of him as a cowboy were getting a little carried away. More to the point, a human Jasper that I could have a human life with. Growing old together. Children.

I smiled as I thought of my belly growing with his child. What they would look like. I would want a boy, that looked just like him. I wondered then what Jaspers human eye color was. I'd have to ask him, because that's the closest I'd get to having anything human about him. I was sad slightly that I couldn't have a child, but my life with Jasper as a vampire would be worth it. Besides, we had Ace. We could get other dogs, too. Ace's loud growls and barking brought me out of la la land. He was staring into the forest.

"Ace, get in your room." Jasper sad calmly. Ace obeyed with a wine, a desperate look, and hand lick before running inside. I stood and Jasper was at my side in an instant, taking his hand in mine.

"Garrett." He stated. He came out of the tree line, a swagger in his confident walk. Running a hand through his shaggy dark brown hair, he had a shaggy beard that matched. Chains on his dark jeans, long black duster jacket and what looked like an army bag swung over his shoulder. He was ruggedly handsome. Complete bad boy. I was beginning to think all the people that hung around Jasper were badasses.

Because this dude sure looked it. Everyone was around us now, I took a moment to observe their attire. Peter dressed similarly to Jasper, dark clothes that were always dirty. Charlotte wore pretty pin-up girl like clothes, mostly black and red. She liked her hair like that aswell, the girl was all about the fifties. Kate was dressed darkly, expensive and sexy. She liked to wear fur, too, maybe a weakness from her Russian back of the clothing was a striking contrast with their skin, but it looked good on them. It fit there personality.

While I was wearing black shorts over the stripped black and grey tights that were Charlie's, and a baggy AC/DC shirt. Nothing the Cullens would ever wear, not pretty pastel colors that looked like they walked off the runway in Paris. Just a note to how different Jasper and I truly were from the Cullens.

He was in front of us now, he being the badass Garret. "Jasper!" The men grasped hands and smiled at each other. "It's been to long, friend."

"Yes, yes it has. Garrett let me introduce you to my mate, Isabella." He looked down at me then, grinning. I turned scarlet. It was the very first time he had said that infront of people, let alone introduced me like that.

"Mate? My, my, my." With a sweep of his coat and arm he bowed to me. "It's a pleasure meeting the mate of the Major, the god of war. " He held out his hand and I felt silly but I put my hand in his.

His cold lips kissed it. I giggled slightly, curling into Jasper side. He was charming. The low, so low I almost didn't notice, growl, warned him. He lifted his hands in surrender. "All yours my friend. " He nodded appecaticely."You did well. Beautiful girl Jasper, she suits you well."

"Thank you Garrett, you know Peter and Charlotte, but this is Kate. She's a part of the Denali coven."

"Ah. Yes I've heard of you. They say you can put a vampire flat on his back." He grinned at her.

"Anyone who touches me goes down like a human being tasered. For as long as I like." She said cockily.

"Try me?' His eyebrows rose in challenge.

Her eyes went a little wide. Garrett took off his jacket and put in on the railing of the porch, and bounced off of it, landing in the yard.

She followed him, her heels of her boots clicking on the wood. She was calm as she almost seductively walked around him. He had a huge grin on his face, that lit up his eyes with mischief. She moved closer to him and grabbed his for arms and pulled her to him roughly. Bolts of lightning seemed to shoot from her fingers, he didn't scream, he winced and stared into her eyes, before they traveled to her lips.

Oh. My eyes looked away instantly. Charlotte grabbed my arm and began to giggle which of course I had to join becuase of it's infectiousness.

"Well, looks like they're gonna get along well." Peter said crossing his arms.

It was the evening before our next guest was due to arrive. Garrett was extremely witty. He loved to tell me stories, I loved to listen, Jasper loved to distract me by laying his head over my heart or kissing my shoulder or back of my neck. Ace lay at my feet while we sat on the couch, by we I mean Jasper and I. Peter and Char sat in the big chair. Charlotte was in his lap. Kate sat on the love seat with Garrett listening raptly to his tales. They would be a perfect couple.

"Alistar is coming in 5-10 minutes y'all." Peter said.

"Alistar? Really? That creeper? I mean he's all wisodomly and all but he's creepy. Isn't he as old as dirt its self?" Garrett chimed in.

"I am over two hundred years older than him, boy." Kate said a hint of menace in her voice.

Oooops.

His eyes went large. "It brings me sorrow that my words were so foolish, my queen." He said in a mocking, silly tone.

She kicked with an expensivly clad leather booted foot, staight off of the love seat. Awww. Violence is love! At least that's what I'm learning from Petey and Garrett's appearance, Alistar knocked on the front door. We all got up, I told Ace to go to our room, and Jasper moved me slightly behind him.

Alistar had pale gold blonde hair, long and it fell in his face, like Garrett he had facial hair. Sort of like Jasper as well. Jasper had adapted a trimed jaw line, gotee and slight mustache that was just perfect. Alistar's was a little longer and messier.

"Alistar, welcome and thank you for helping me protect my mate." Jasper greeted. Alistar wore leather pants, a heavy jacket and leather satchel. Nomad wear apparently.

"Your mate? " He peered behind Jasper, I moved from behind him to in front of him and offered my hand. I wasnt afraid, he needn't protect me in such a caveman way. A slow smile appeared on Alistar's face for my act of courage.

He shook it softly and did a small bow as he took in my appearance, eyes traveling up and down me. "Lovely." He said to Jasper.

"I'm Isabella, you can call me Bella if you wish."

"It's wonderful gracing you presence Isabella, human mate of Jasper. Tell me Jasper, when do you plan on turning her." I looked at Jasper then, straight to business.

"Whenever she chooses." Jasper said shortly. This was my moment to speak up.

"I've meant to talk to you about that." I said. "Peter, do you have any idea when Victoria is coming?"

"From my feelings, she realised you're in the company of Jasper. She's going to make more, at the moment she only has five. I would estimate at the least a month and a half. Max if she's smart at all three to four. " A month in a half...

"Would that be enough time?" I was saying all of this staring straight into his eyes, although my questions were directed to Peter.

"If my feelings are correct, you'll be very different from normal newborns."

"Meaning?" Jasper said.

"Meaning she's gonna be different. I dont know anything else."

Alistar was leaning against the wall. "She has extensive earlier knowledge. That will make a huge difference."

"And with the guidance fo the Major and company she should have no issue being ready."

"Are you sure?" Jasper said softly.

"I wouldn't have mentioned it if I wasn't Jasper."

"I know, "His hand cupped my cheek."I dont know if I'll be able to turn you."

"You can." Peter said."You will, so don't say anything else about it, because dude, you'd murder anyone who tried to bite her."

Jasper grinned that sinful grin."True."

"We'll all leave tonight, we can show you the hunting areas if you want Alistar."

"Tonight?" I asked.

"Why wait if you want it?" Jasper asked, crossing his arms.

"I thought it'd be harder to convince is all." I was shocked, but ready. As ready as I'd ever be.

"I'm not mind-raper Isa."

"Isa?" I said confused.

"You said I could call you anything, I decided I wanted a name for you. Got a problem with it?" He said tapping his foot slightly.

I giggled and shook my head no, thinking back to our first letters of contact.

"Ohkaaay we're leaving. " Charlotte said as she grabbed Peter's hand.

They all flashed out of the house in vampire speed. Nothing by white flashes in my vision. I suddenly got nervous as I walked into our room, Jasper kicked the dog out into the living room. I sat on the bed my feet hanging off of it. My heard was beating loudly in my ears. I closed my eyes and listened. Taking in the last moments of my human heart. The one that had betrayed me, guided me, and gave me life.

Jasper kneeled in front of me, taking my hands in his. I opened my eyes. "Anything you wanted to do as a human? We got booze if you want to get drunk, I can get drugs if you want to try that, hmmm..." He trailed off tapped his chin. I giggled.

"Got drunk at thirteen with a friend from Phoenix. Smoked pot with Jacob, once."

He gasped."Isabella." He clucked his tongue."Bad, bad girl."

"Ha. Not that bad." I leaned back on the bed with a huff. "I'm going to die being a..." I trailed off way to embarrassed to contuine this line of conversation.

"Is-aa." He spoke softly.

"I haven't exactly been with anyone... romantically."

"You're a virgin?" I got on my elbows to see his reaction.

Disbelief colored his handsome features.

"There was no one before Edward, and he was a prude. No one after either, not that Jacob didn't try. "

"I...you've... done..." He couldn't seem to find his words.

"The farthest I've gone is with you." I said shyly, leaning back down.

Jasper crawled onto the bed above me then. He kissed the hollow of my throat, softly.

"Isabella, my Isa, my mate, may I have the honor?"

"You can be with me? While I'm a human? You'd be willing-" I was speaking fast, my thoughts blending together as I thought of what he was asking me.

"Of course darlin', if I can touch you,"He traced a finger over my jaw line,"I can kiss you, " He kissed above my pulse point. "I can.. be with you. As a... well you must promise me one thing first. My breathing was getting heavier. I was calm, I wasn't nervous. I wanted this. He wanted this. He actually wanted me. It was a notion I wasn't used too.

"What is it?"

"Marry me. One day, not now of course. But promise me you'll marry me." I never liked the idea of marriage. Having my mother and father's end so quickly made me have zero faith in it. That it wasn't needed, but I wouldn't help but like the idea of being called Mrs. Whitlock.

"Yes..." He smiled a crinkly smile, that perfect smile that made his entire face light up with happiness. The smile I had craved to make appear on that face since the very first day I saw him.

"If I hurt you-"

"Don't be afraid," I murmured, "we belong together."

I was abruptly overwhelmed by the truth of my own words. This moment was so perfect, so right, there was no way to doubt it. His arms wrapped around me, holding me against him, summer and winter. It felt like every nerve ending in my body was alive wire.

Loving hands caressed my body in a way they never did, without restrictions, without worry of crossing am invisable line. I couldn't have thought this moment would of be any more perfect.

We layed side by side. "I want this to be the last thing I remember."

"I love you, my Isa, my life." He whispered it softly into the base of me throat, right before his razor like teeth cut into the soft skin there.

Just like that they were gone. The burning didn't start right away, it started by the time he was biting my wrists, my ankles, my thighs.

It ran through my veins like a wildfire in a wheat feild of a dry summer. Much different from the fire from earlier. I screamed a sharp high pitch scream.

"I'm sorry baby. I'm so sorry baby." Jasper repeated over and over.

I ground my teeth together, I willed my joints to lock in place.

I would not scream.

I would not move.

It would hurt him.

And that was my mantra.

Chapter Twenty Five

ReBirth

While I burned I blocked myself off from Jasper completely. I zoned into my own little world. I thought of my human family, my human friends.

Charlie holding my hand making sure I didn't fall.

Renee attempting to make dinner and spilling tomato sauce all over her self and the floor.

Fishing on the lake with a tiny Jake, a walking Billy, the twins, Sarah still alive and my father's laughter.

The time my mother wanted to try kick boxing and got thrown across the room while I took the instructor down.

My mother's laugh lines and red hair.

My fathers silence, love, and gentle care.

The fire burned hotter then, making my thoughts twist sharply.

Oh god make it stop, please take the pain away. I can't do this. It hurts to bad! Pleassse! Someone just end it!

I recollected my self and pushed the nasty thoughts away.

Seeing the beautiful ones across a large white room.

Emmett and video games.

Carlisle and books.

Esme and flowers.

Jasper.

The pain increased in my chest. It felt as if lava was being poored onto me.

Jasper and silent stares across a pale schemed room.

"I can feel what your feeling now - and you are worth it."

"Our only fear is losing you."

"I was born Jasper Monroe Whitlock in 1842, in a little town outside of Houston, Texas. I had three sisters and a younger brother. I dont remember their names anymore. My father owned a plantation, he earned it not inherited. We had slaves but they were paid well and we didnt have many. I still thought it was the right thing to do in joining the war. I was young when I joined. My mama didn't want me too. She begged me not too. My father was proud of me though..."

My thoughts consisted of Jasper from that point on.

Making sure I had each one of my memories of him.

"I love you, my Isa, my life."

Slowly, I started to recognize my surroundings throught the licks of fire.

I heard voices. I heard some saying it would be over soon.

Peter. That was Peter.

Oh jesus was I dressed?

Stabbing pain, fire licked violently in my head then, I almost gave up on my vow of silence and screamed. It chanced my panicked thought away instantly.

"She's not letting me feel her, I can't take any of it away."

Jasper. My inner voice purred the name.

I listened over the pain.

"Talented."

Slightly familar. Pale blonde hair and leather.

I took a chance then, I smelled the air. Everything was intense, levels of scent, so powerfully so many. It was over whelming.

Dark, spicy, strong, musky.

Whiskey, tobacco, molasses.

My Jasper.

I focused on his scent so I would be calm, so I wouldn't panic.

Someone was touching my face.

Cool cloth, wet.

"It's almost over my sweet sister."

Charlie...

I loved her. My sister, my bestfriend.

"Yes Petal, very soon the fire will stop."

Peter, my brother in-law, my big brother.

"Can she hear us?"

Female...

"Kate or Katrina." The same female voice whispered in my mind, the voice accompanied by a sassy smile.

"Yes." Peter said.

"Look at her, immortality suits her."

Silly bow, a cold kiss to the hand, war stories.

Garrett.

"She was always beautiful." Jasper said defensivly.

It suits me?

I wonder what I look like...

I'd have red eyes at first, they had warned me.

I was frightened to look at myself.

"We'll have to show her!" Kate said happily.

"She won't want that, she needs to hunt anyway." Charlotte said.

"Why did you dress her like that Charlotte?"

"What? Shes going to be hunting, she'll ruin any cloths I put her in, she'd like this. I believe I know her just a little bit." Her voice was scary, defensive and protective.

I giggled on the inside and tried to smile outwardly, hoping it didn't look like a grimace.

I heard Jasper chuckle.

"She can hear." A hand was on my cheek. "Why wont you let me in darlin? I could make it go away a little."

I frowned.

He'd feel the pain.

He's already felt it, I could handle it on my own.

"Her hearts about to-"

I let loose a banshee shriek then, my back coming from the bed and arching at an awkward angle. My hands clawed on the bed below me. I faintly hear a ripping sound.

My heart was pounding in my ears, the fire had slowly receded from my limbs and gathered there.

With each beat the fire got worse and worse.

Jasper was trying to calm me but I couldn't stop.

The pain was too intense, violent.

Then it stopped, just as soon as it had increased, it ceased.

"Oh.." I trailed off and sunk back into the bed.

The beating was gone, my heart silent in my chest.

It was over.

I took a moment before I opened my eyes to just not feel pain.

"Open those eyes for me Isa."

My eye lids flashed open, the first thing I saw was Jasper.

My hand found way to his face, my fingers trailed down his jaw that was lined with dark hair.

He wasn't cold anymore. He was more stunning that I remembered.

I sighed. It felt unnatural, and stange. I didn't need to breathe anymore.

This fallen angel's face smiled a stunning smile. I stared at the sight.

Lips..

Suddenly mine was on his.

Oh...

He really was holding back, my lips no longer gave way and molded to his. They held there own.

"Save it for later. Jesus, I don't need that peep-show in my memory." I broke away from him embarrassed then. Jasper chuckled.

I looked towards them, my family. But suddenly they weren't.

Scars.

Large.

To many.

Dangerous.

My body flew across the room and hit the wall cracking it slightly.

A snarl escaped my lips and I alarmed myself.

I tried to calm myself but my breathing was rapid, I couldn't stop growling.

I looked at Jasper, he was still on the bed staring.

To far away.

To close to danger!

He isn't safe.

Just like that my body flew in front of his and sunk down into a crouch.

"Isa, calm darlin' they aint a danger to you, or myself."

I knew this, my rational mind knew this.

But my predator fight or flight instinct had kicked in.

My rational side was at a war with the monster within.

I looked at them then, closer, past the scars.

Blonde, bouncy hair, red eyes, sister.

Pale blonde, long hair, kind eyes. Peter.

With each face I recognized I slowly rose from my crouch.

Pale silvery hair, yellow eyes. Kate.

Wicked smile, dark hair and scruffy face. Garrett.

Dirty blonde, leather, extremely pale. Alistar.

My growls had completely stopped, I was standing normal.

"I need to get out of here Jasper." For a moment I was alarmed by my voice. It sounded like deep bells from church, low but feminine.

Every thing in my body was telling me to attack.

Not run.

Attack.

"Of course." I heard something open.

His hand found mine, he pulled gently, I bolted, I didn't even look but I registered that it was my window I jumped through.

We ran hand and hand until he let got and went faster than me chuckling. I pushed my self faster, harder, and I went flying forward past him. I laughed. I genuinely laughed. It felt wonderful.

I could see everything, I couldn't trip. The cloths Charlie put me in I appreciated. Sports bra and yoga pants, the material itched slightly. Unnatural against my sensitive skin. I was grateful that it wasn't alot, or fancy. I felt free still. Free and happy. More happy than I had ever felt. I came to a lake, I stopped and waited. Jasper was far behind me. I looked at myself in the reflection of the clear water.

My hair was longer slightly. Just past my shoulders, it was dark, but the dye was gone. My cheekbones were more pronounced, I was less girl and more woman. My entire frame was more prounouced, I had curves that once were slight but now were completly stomach was toned, my arms were wiry female muscle, I felt powerful. I wasn't soft and slim like before, I had filled out. Every nerve ending in my body felt alive and ready for anything. Like a live wire.

I noticed then the burn in my throat. It wasnt as strong as I thought it would be. Strange.

Jasper was there now, walking towards me. "You left me in the dust. We'll see if you can do that once your newborn strength has wore off. Isa, aren't you hungry?"

"It's not like I thought."My hand was on my throat."It's as if I could ignore it I wanted...Is that normal? I don't feel normal. I can't believe I almost attacked them."

"That, the attacking, is completely normal. Your thirst on the other hand isn't..."He trailed off. "Close your eyes."

I obeyed.

"Listen, smell, focus. Find a heart beat."

I did as I was told, I heard something, wet pumping. I sniffed the air, experimenting, something spicy and harsh.

My body was flying through the forest, I saw the moose, I was stalking it, about to pounce when I smelt something much better.

Sweet, tangy delicious smelling.

I switched directions rapidly I neared it, my fear kicked it that possibly it was a human, it wasn't.

It was a large but small cat. Lynx. My human memory remembers. It snarled at me and I took it down. The hot blood cooled the fire in my throat and made me moan. I sensed Jasper behind me. I turned around throwing the carcass away from me, suddenly disgusted by it. Jasper was leaning against a tree staring at me. Eyes midnight, wicked evil grin on his face.

My new eyesight taking everything in on him.

I purred.

I actually purred.

I pounced on my next prey.

Way more fun than a lynx.

He winced at the pain of my strength when I had him pinned, I was about to say I'm sorry and fling myself off of him, when he told me he loved a strong woman.

The rest of my first day as a vampire contuined much like this. He taught me how to hunt, we raced eachother, fought each other, among other things.

I couldn't stop, I didn't know if I could. We didn't have to sleep!

I couldn't stop touching him and he couldn't stop touching me, whether it was a casual hand hold while we ran, climbed trees of hunted, or the feel of his arms around me.

Looking up at the clear bright Montana sky, laying in the grass. I wasn't tired, it was a strange feeling.

"Isa?"

"Yes honey?"

"When will you become my wife? I haven't stopped thinking of it. "

"Wha?" I asked fasinated to much by the way his lips moved than the words they produced.

"Marry me. It involves a dress, a ring, a preacher. Some vows."

I turned on my side, fully looking at him.

"I dont want anything big. "

"Of course not.

"Did you think I'd say no?"

He turned away from me. "You never liked the notion of marriage, I knew that." He said softly.

"Jasper, I will marry you. I will be your wife. I'd gladly be called Mrs. Whitlock. I'll always love you, your my mate. You are mine. I wouldn't want another even it was my choice. I'll always be there for you sweetie. Your my man, I take you anyway you are. I always have and I always will. I won't be like her. I promise you that. "

He grinned brightly and it started all over again.

Over the next two weeks I was able to control my need to attack my family. Jasper began training me, he was rough with me and didn't give me special treatment. Just like I wanted. We had a set up a scheduel for me that consisted of fighting, trying not to break the house, Kate training me on my power, hunting and Jasper time. I wasn't able to hunt with anyone other than Jasper because I attacked when someone got to close. A week ago I had come across a human and ran away. I don't know how I did it, but I did.

Everyone was shocked, Jasper was proud and a little cocky. Saying he knew I could. Blood didn't affect me like it should. My shield had learned to cover more people than just Jasper. It was hard focusing on it, I tried to imagine a candle flame when I wanted it bigger. I saw it, too, my shield. No one else did though, it was light blue and kind of glowed. I could cover, Jasper, Charlotte and Peter. Kate said that it was just because I loved them and decided to use Garrett from now on.

I liked Gary alot, he was a brother for sure. He even let me call him Gary. He called me little one, I didn't mind. Alistar loved to watch. He sort of creeped me out. Two days ago, he got to close to me, and touched my face while he told me of laws, how to behave, all vampire stuff. Jasper attacked him, nearly took his arm off, he was full of apologies and told him he wouldn't touch me again. Thats when Peter explained how bad it was for new mates. It explained why I reacted the way I did in my first moments.

After breaking the bed much to my dismay, Peter joked only once, apparently we're scary when we both snarl and glare. I liked that. Being like this. I loved it. I loved being fierce and strong. I loved the thrill of fighting. The rush of running. The sense of touch when he kissed me... I was born to be a vampire. I was born to be with Jasper.