Bella woke up cold and alone. She burrowed under her quilt. She was wearing a pair of sleep shorts and a tank top. She looked at her arm and saw it was covered with an ace bandage. The memories the night before flooded her. Jake and her dancing, everyone staring. Edward and his vicious accusations. The pain, the pleasure, and the lack of warmth. Bella sat up and transferred into her wheelchair. She grabbed Jake's shirt off the floor, pulled it over her head, and added his jacket for the warmth. Grabbing clean clothes, she headed for the bathroom. Jake was nowhere to be seen as Bella got a shower. Emily smiled at her, as she made sure she didn't fall getting in and out. The house was quieter than it had been since she had been there. Emily was sitting next to her bandaging her arm.

"Where is everybody Em."

"After what happened last night Sam called a meeting this morning."

Bella got quiet as Emily put her breakfast in front of her.

"So did you have fun last night?"

"Yeah Em I did. I wouldn't trade it for anything."

"Even with Edward's interruption."

"Even with that it was still the best night of my life."

"So why aren't you eating?"

"I am just disappointed."

"Why because Jake isn't here?"

"Yeah."

"Bella...you have to understand last night it was all he could do to contain the wolf long enough to get you here and safe. He was pretty torn up after you went to sleep, so much so he took Sam's shift."

"UGH. I wish he would have stayed and talked to me instead of running away."

"It isn't that easy Bella. When they or their wolves get upset or angry they can have a hard time communicating. It can go one of two ways. They can either lash out and someone gets hurt or they can run it off so that is what he did."

"It wasn't just that Em. He treats me as if I am made of glass. He kisses and touches me like he wants more but he pulls back."

Emily sat back down next to her and grabbed her hand to get her attention. "Bella as someone who is mated to wolf. It is NOT easy and on top of that you have health issues, Jake loves you, his wolf adores you, he will know when you are ready. I know you think you are ready now but you aren't."

"What if I am never ready Em."

"You will be Bella."

"I am going to read." She said as she abruptly pushed away from the table. Slamming her bedroom door as she went.

Emily knew there was no point in calling her back to take her pills. Bella Swan was pissed. Pissed at Edward Cullen, Jacob Black, but most of all she was pissed at herself.

Jake, Paul, and Embry pushed at each other as they fought to beat one another up the steps. Sam and Jared had stayed behind with Carlisle to talk of revising the treaty. Jake couldn't wait to see Bells. This was to be the first day of summer for them and he had starting with heading home and spending time alone with her in the Taj while he worked on the Rabbit. When he opened the door, he was met with complete and utter silence. He froze and Paul and Embry ran into his back.

"What the Hell Jake." Paul looked over his shoulder and saw the empty living room. Jake sprinted inside and saw Emily's note on the fridge.

Gone to Ateara's. Bella is in the bedroom. Jake I suggest you give her a wide berth today. I will be back before lunch.

Emily.

"Okay guys wish me luck." Jake said as he headed for Bella's bedroom.

"Jake, wait..." Embry said before Paul clamped his hand over his mouth.

Jake opened the door and Bella was sitting at her desk reading. She didn't even bother to look up as he pushed the door open wider. "Bells?" She still didn't move, so he moved further into the room and put his hand on her shoulder.

She shrugged his hand off "Don't." She bit out.

He turned her around to face him. "What is wrong Bells?"

"I don't want to talk about it."

"Isabella."

"Don't you dare Isabella me Jacob."

Jake's growl rumbled deep in his chest. Embry went to interrupt them and Paul stop him. "She is fine Emb."

"But Paul..."

"Listen the wolf is just mad cause she is putting her foot down. He is not gonna hurt her."

"How do you know that?"

"Because I know no matter how he heated it gets between them Jake will not let the wolf hurt her. But I am not so sure about Little Bird. Baby Alpha musta messed up pretty bad by the sound of her."

"Bella...please tell me what is wrong. How am I supposed to fix it if you won't tell me?"

"Some things you just cannot fix." She said with an exasperated sigh.

"Don't I at least deserve a chance to try?"

"No because you will just say I am being stupid and silly and that I am not ready."

"Is this about last night?"

"No." She lied as she to turn around and head for the door but Jake's hands reached her armrests and stopped her before she could.

"Don't lie to me Isabella."

"I told you not to Isabella me."

"Well than tell me the truth. What about last night was so awful that you cringe at my touch when not 12 hours again you were begging for me to touch you everywhere as you moaned against my lips." He said as he leaned in until his lips were millimeters from hers. He pushed her back until she was trapped between him and the door and he pressed his lips to her ear. "You weren't cringing last night when you said you needed me and pulled my naked body against yours and said you needed and I am willing to bet you would do it again with just one touch." He said as he ran his finger down the side of her jaw.

She pushed against his naked chest desperate to put distance between them. "It is not enough." She yelled.

Jake didn't budge. "What is not enough?" He pressed.

"Last night was not enough."

"Well I certainly did not hear any complaints from you last night as you fell apart in my arms when I took your body to a place it had never been."

"It wasn't enough."

"Well Isabella it has to be enough for now." He said before she cut him off.

"I swear to God Jake if you say one word about me not being ready I will scream."

"Bells, what do you want me to do?"

"I want you to make love to me Jake."

"I can't yet Bells."

"You know what I don't want to hear it. You, Edward, Carlisle, Sam, Paul even your damn wolf are controlling assholes and I am sick to death of it all. Bella, do this, Bella don't do that, Bella take your pills. Bella eat up. I am sick to death of it all." She said as she shoved him as hard as she could spun around and grabbed for the doorknob but before she got through the door he pulled her he back and slammed the door shut. Bella shivered as the door shook on its hinges as he turned her to face him and pushed her back against the door. When she looked up his eyes were completely black and his nostrils were flaring.

"You know what I am sick of Isabella. I am sick of being compared to a worthless leech every time you don't get what you want. I understand you are frustrated so are we but Jacob has me on a tight leash and you better be glad because if it was up to me that little stunt the leech pulled last night would have earned him a death sentence no matter how much you begged and pleaded otherwise. Then I woulda brought you back here, ripped that dress from your body, and took what I wanted without any thought of anything else. Is that what you are looking for? "

Bella had lost the ability to speak as he stared at her.

"I know what you want. You want your boy toy to make you feel good. I get it. You know what we want? We wanna be buried in you balls deep making you scream so much you lose your voice. We want to fill you with our seed to the point where there is no question who you belong to. Then just to make sure we want to mark you again until you pass out but I can tell you are not ready for that even though the mere thought of it is turning you on so much the Paul and Embry can smell you."

"Jake..." she whispered.

"No, Isabella, you had your chance to talk now it is our turn but I swear I don't want to talk at all. I want to strip you naked, tie you to the bed, and spank your ass until you take it all back but it is too late for that so you know what. I am going home and maybe sleeping alone will change your attitude but if you ever compare me to Edward again I will not hesitate do you understand?"

Bella gasped.

"Answer me!" He roared.

"Yes."

Jacob didn't say another word as he moved her out of the way and wrenched the door opened. He strode through the living room ignoring his slacked jawed brothers in his wake as he opened and slammed the front door shut.

Paul and Embry continued to stare opened mouth at the closed door until they heard the whimper coming from the other direction. They turned their heads to see Bella staring at the door and clutching her middle. Paul pushed past Embry and made his way to her.

"Little Bird, you okay?"

She didn't answer him. She just whimpered again.

"Snapping his fingers in front of her face he tried again "Little Bird are you okay?"

Still no answer.

"I think she is in shock Paul."

"Well I know he didn't hurt her physically dipshit but I also know she can feel whatever he does and if I had to guess he is in some serious pain right now." Paul picked Bella up and took her into the living room just as Sam walked in the door.

"Where's Em?" He asked before taking in the scene before him.

"She went to Ateara's Sam."

"Okay, did Jake go with her?"

"No, she was gone when we got back. There is a note on the fridge see for yourself. Embry said as Paul sat stock still with Bella in his arms.

Sam was quiet as he read the note then he looked at Paul and Bella. "Where is Jake?"

"He went home Sam." Embry supplied.

"And Bella what happened here?" He said motioning to her and Paul on the sofa who was rubbing her back and chuffing at her.

"Well let's just say I think Jake shoulda listened to Emily."

"No he shouldn't have Jackass. Make yourself useful and get some of Bella's nighttime pills and water. Then go see about your best friend before a pound ya." Paul interrupted. "Sam I will explain it all as soon as Little Bird settles."

Embry came back with the water and the pills handed them to Paul.

"Open." Paul commanded. Bella did as he said. He placed the pills in her mouth and tipped the water glass pouring some in her mouth. "Swallow." Once again, she followed his instructions. He put the water glass back in Embry's waiting hands. He stood up and carried Bella back to the bedroom. He sat her on the bed and help her undress the best he could with his eyes closed. Once she was dressed, he settle her beneath her quilt, sitting with her until she was sleeping soundly. By the time, he emerged from her bedroom Embry had left and Emily had returned.

"Is she settled now?" Sam asked.

"For now."

"What the Hell happened?"

"They had a knock down drag out fight is what happened and before you go storming off looking to rip Jake a new one. He did not touch her Sam. You know I would have kicked his ass if he had. She set him off good though compared him to the leech again."

"Shit, why?"

"Em, you wanna take this one?" Paul asked not really feeling comfortable disclosing what they had overheard."

"Nope, Paul you are doing fine."

"Okay well apparently she didn't care for how he ended the night last night."

"What are you talking about?"

"Damn Sam, I know you know what usually happens at a Prom especially if you are attracted to the girl and it isn't a pity date. Shit."

"But she can't."

"I know, you know, Jake knows, and so does she but that did not stop her from begging and when he said no she went off and compared him to the leech and apparently Baby Alpha has had enough of that so he let her have it with both barrels. Then he walked out without another word."

"I tried explaining to her this morning."

"Well Baby Alpha is making sure she understands. He did not sugar coat it and I swear it is like it was his wolf talking most of the time."

"He probably was Paul. Em and I have both witnessed it happening."

"Shit, my wolf has no communication skills at all past I want and mine."

"Mine either."

"He is gonna be a pretty damn special Alpha than huh?"

"Yeah I think so. What did he say to her?"

"That I refuse to repeat in front of Emily due to the explicit nature of the conversation but let just say if she ever compares him to the leech again I don't think she will find pleasure in being undressed by her alpha."

"Shit Paul. Why did you not step in?"

"Because I knew Little Bird could handle it."

"Yeah cause she is handling it so well."

"She is doing just fine and I have a feeling there will be a lot less complaining from her now. They needed to hash this out for really instead of pussy footing around it. I mean we all told her they could do it without giving her a legit reason why well he made sure she knew in detail exactly what would happen when they finally do it."

"Okay, well she is down for the night most likely nothing more we can do. I will have him patrol with me tonight and see how long he plans to torture her."

"Dude, the way he left here it could be the entire summer. Hell, I am surprised you still have doors. I will be back for dinner I need a shower and some sleep. I will stay here with the ladies tonight."

"Okay, see you then."

Embry had been standing outside the Taj for 20 minutes listening to Jake throw things and 10 more listening to him breath heavily. This was worse than when he transformed. Embry had never seen his friend this emotional not even when his Mom passed away. He slowly opened the door. Jake was lying face down on the bench seat. "Jake..." He said almost at a whisper.

"Em, go away."

"Are you okay?"

"Nope. Is Bella okay?"

"Nope."

"I don't know what the hell happen. She just set me off."

"We know."

"How much did you two here?"

"Most of it."

Jake sat up. "She likes when he talks too her most of the time. I did not expect him to say all that he said but I can't say I regret any of it. She needed to know the truth and she needs to feel the way I feel on a daily basis. I won't be going back tonight."

"They know you won't be."

"Is Sam pissed?"

"No Paul went to bat for you."

"Wanna go get some burgers on Dr. Cullen?"

"You sure he won't mind?"

"Yeah I am sure. I wouldn't have offered if he had a problem with it."

"Let's go then."

True to his word, Jake did not return that night and Bella did not sleep through the night as they had hoped. She awoke at midnight and headed for the bathroom. Paul was awake and listening for her after her heard her flush he could hear her softly crying. He went and opened the bathroom door to see her sitting on the toilet with tears running down on her cheeks. He did not say a word as he picked her up and took her back in the living room. "Oh Little Bird. Don't cry."

"I drove him away."

"No you didn't. He knew he was close to losing it so he left to protect you."

"He left because I pushed him away."

"Little Bird I want you to listen to me and this is important. Both Jake and his wolf love you and that is gonna make everything worth the wait. I know the imprint is making your hormones crazy and I know his are amped up by the wolf but if he hurts you by trying to push sex on you too soon it will kill Jake the man. I have seen what happens when a wolf hurts their imprint and it is not pretty. Sam went nuts and was a wolf for weeks when he hurt Emily. He almost didn't come back. I can guarantee you Jake won't come back. It will break him. So take this time apart to reflect on what is really important to you rushed hot and heavy wolf sex that could kill both of you or a lifetime with a boy who has loved you since he was born. Now let's get you to bed."

Jake stayed away an entire week and in that time Bella got to know all the boys as they took turns watching over her. Though in truth Paul did most of the heavy lifting because like Emmett Cullen he looked at the tiny girl as his little sister and not just Jake's imprint. He took her wherever she wanted to go including the beach every day. He watched over her as she lay on a towel in the sand and got lost in the book she was reading. He could see Jake doing the same thing from the cliffs but he never said a word. He knew that Bella needed this time decide what she really wanted and Jake needed her to see what it would be like without him because if she kept pressing she would be without him forever.

Saturday arrived and it was chilly and Bella wanted to go to the beach but Paul was hesitant but in the end, he relented. He was glad he did when they arrived at her spot Jake was sitting there looking out at the waves as they crashed against the shoreline. Paul spread out Bella's towel and put his hand on Jake's shoulder.

"Nice to see you up close again brother."

"Thanks for looking out for her."

"Any time man but let's not have it because of this reason again huh. I think she gets it now."

"Paul." Bella screamed from the sidewalk.

"Keep your pants on Swan. I am coming. Unless of course Baby Alpha wants them off."

Jake laughed softly. "Not today Lahote and when I do you won' be within hearing distance."

"Damn." He said he trekked back up the sand and brought Bella down to where Jake was sitting in the sand. He felt her start to tremble as the back of his head came into view, "It is okay Little Bird.," he whispered in her ear.

"Jake..."

He turned around and looked at her. He saw her trembling in Paul's arms He stood up taking her from Paul without a word. He let out a sigh as she melted against his chest. He could smell her tears but he remained silent. He let his warmth seep through her clothes to her cold skin. She was freezing. He looked at Paul.

"She has been like that since you left. We have kept her as warm as we could."

Jake inclined his head to the parking lot before walking across the sand. Paul grabbed her towel and followed. Jake had Bella in Paul's truck before she could process where they were headed and Paul was in shortly after.

"Sam's?"

"Nope."

"Okay, but Sam ain't gonna like it."

"Don't care. She is my imprint not his and we need to talk alone without all the wolfy ears around."

"I get it man and I happen to agree wholeheartedly but he is not gonna like it."

"He might not like it but he will understand." Jake jumped out and unloaded Bella as soon as Paul threw the truck into park.

Paul followed behind with Bella's stuff. "I will come back later and leave her meds and a change of clothes." He kissed Bella on the forehead. "Later Little Bird. Remember what we talked about."

As soon as Paul left Jake began removing her clothes. "Jake..." she whispered taken aback by his actions.

"Bath only Bells I swear. We have got to get you warm and then we will talk."

"Okay."

He dropped her clothes in the washer on the way to the bathroom and shut the door behind them. Turning on the taps as he put the stopper in the tub. He knew it would be a tight squeeze but she needed him and he would not let her down. He took the bottle of her favorite body wash that he had bought when she first returned to Forks and squeezed it into the running water. It wasn't bubble bath but it was close enough. He just hoped she didn't ask why he had her brand of body wash in a man only shower. He shut off the water before picking her up and stepping into their tiny tub without his knees bumping the faucet.

As he took the washcloth and began dragging it across her skin, he could not help but remember back to that first day and how cold she had been then too.

"Jake..."

"Hmmm..."

I missed you."

"I missed you too Honey."

With that, Bella relaxed and rested her head against his chest closing her eyes and let him continue his ministrations until they began to cool. He lifted her out of the tub, wrapped her in a towel, and took her to his bedroom. He pulled one of his shirts over her head and put on an old pair of his boxers before putting on a pair of athletic shorts himself. He wrapped her in a blanket before taking her in the living room.

"Where is Billy?" She asked as she snuggled into his chest.

"He is fishing with some of his buddies."

"Oh...Jake I am sorry."

"I know Bells."

"Does he know?"

"Yes...he knows...but he wants to know why."

"Because I am a stupid girl who is afraid she is not enough."

"Bells..."

"No Jake let me finish. I have spent the last six months of my life surrounded by perfect people. I wanted to be like them and then like that the person who told me he would love me forever literally walked out without a second glance and left me even less perfect than before. I am broken Jake and you came in and loved me in spite of that. Last Friday was perfect. You made me feel beautiful and loved for the person I am and not the person I was and then Edward showed up and made me doubt myself all over again. Then I woke up Saturday morning expecting you to be there and you weren't. I know you were at a pack meeting but the bed was cold and lonely. Emily said you hadn't been with me at all after I went to sleep."

"I couldn't Bells between smelling you and him it was too much."

"I know that now Jake, but I felt like I wasn't good enough that I may never be good enough. What if I am never strong enough? I don't want you to be miserable because you are tied to me forever."

"Bells, you are getting stronger every day. I feel it. He feels it. Carlisle is sure the surgery will help you. We will figure out a way to make it work regardless. I love you Bells and just being able to hold you is enough for me." He could smell her tears as she buried her face in the side of his neck. He pulled her closer. "S'okay Bells let it all out Honey."

When she had cried herself to sleep Jake took her back to his bedroom and laid her on his bed wrapping her securely in the blanket. He watched her for a few minutes as she buried her nose in his pillow with a quick kiss on her forehead he left the room. He would have stayed but he was expecting Sam to call and at least protest his plans for the evening. Well he could protest all he liked but he and Bells needed to reconnect away from prying eyes and ears. He went in the living room and turned on the TV and just listened to her breathe as the imagines flicked across the screen.

It took Sam longer than Jake thought it would to call but it was no less than he expected.

"Are you sure the two of you spending the night alone together is the right choice."

"Never been more sure. Sam we don't get a chance to talk alone at your house and we need to. I love her Sam more than anyone or anything in this life but she doesn't understand it all and I guess that is my fault we should have talked about all of it sooner but to be honest I was just trying to keep our heads above water. Now that Edward has returned, I have got to tell her everything including the fact that because of Edward showing up we missed the signs of the red head being under our noses. She has to hear it from me."

"Okay, but if you feel yourself losing it."

"I will leave."

"Em is packing her an overnight bag and you two some food. Paul will bring that and her meds."

"Okay and Sam?"

"Yeah."

"Thank you for everything."

"It is my job Jake."

"No it's not. It is mine we both know that."

"Jake I remember what it is like to have an injured imprint. It is not a fun place to be. I couldn't handle all you are handling now at 15 much less adding Alpha to the mix so you just focus on Little One and let me worry about the Alpha duties for now."

"You are a good man Sam Uley. I just wish the tribe could know just how good."

"It wouldn't have made a difference. Leah would still hate me."

"I am sorry Sam."

"Me too Jake me too. Listen Em is coming I gotta go. Take good care of her."

"I will. We will be back at your house when Dad comes back tomorrow. I wanna make sure he gets settled again before we leave."

"See you then."

Two hours later Jake was heating up some of what Emily sent over for them to eat. He had put her overnight bag on his desk in the bedroom.

"Jake." She called.

"Yeah, Honey be right there." He said as he took her plate out of the microwave, put his in, and ran for the bedroom.

"I wouldn't have called you but my chair is not in here and I need to go potty."

"It's ok Honey." He said as he took her across the hall to the bathroom. "Em sent us food and you some clothes if you wanna change."

"I think I am gonna need my bag that I brought with me and a change of clothes."

"Okay, Bells you okay."

"Yeah Jake. I am fine. Just a girl thing."

"Oh...Oh okay hold on. He said as he ran around the house gathering what she need. Bella smiled at the sounds of panic as he dropped things and stumbled around. He knocked before entering. "Sorry Bells. He said as he shoved things at her.

"Jake calm down. Holy Crow if you act like this now. You are gonna be a pain when we start having kids."

"Well it's not like I ever dealt with this or anything Bells. Can I get you anything else? No but this is the only one I have with me and it seems that I didn't pack me more so we are either gonna have to go to Sam's or you gonna have to call Em and ask her to send me some.

"I will go to Aunt Joy's and get you some to keep here just in case."

"You sure?"

"Yep. Come on and get dressed before our food gets cold."

"Close the door. I will call you when I get ready."

"Okay, Honey…you sure u don't wanna shower or another bath."

"Jake I am fine. I just wanna get dressed."

"Okay." He said as he stood at the bathroom door. He brought her chair and left it in the doorway with her transfer board, He went back to the kitchen and continued to fix their lunch. Mentally making a list in his head for the stuff he needed to get from Aunt Joy.

Ten minutes later he and Bella were sitting at the kitchen table eating. Bella ate half of hers and then went to get her pills. Jake was amazed at the change in her. "You want the rest?" She asked before scraping the rest on his plate and taking hers to the sink. He watched in awe as she transferred herself to the couch and laid down.

"Are you sure you okay Bells?"

"Yeah, been a few months since I had one of these. Carlisle gave me some meds to start them again and it is painful but the meds will kick in soon."

"Will you be okay while I run to Aunt Joy's?"

"Yeah, I will be fine. Go ahead."

"You need anything besides...the you know?"

"Tampons...you can say the word Jake, but chocolate is always nice and ice cream preferably rocky road with extra marshmallows and chocolate syrup. Oh and kettle corn please."

"Got it I will be back in about ten minutes. You sure you gonna be okay."

"Yes, I don't plan on moving off this couch till bed if I can help it."

"Okay I will be back in ten."

He was back in five and she had her eyes closed but they popped open as soon as he came through the door. He had three grocery bags in his arms.

Geez Jake did you by Aunt Joy out?"

"No Miss Smarty pants. I wasn't sure which brand of stuff you wanted so I bought a few. And I bought you two different kinds of Rocky Road, some regular chocolate. I got the chocolate syrup and extra marshmallows. I also got you a couple bags of kettle corn and several bags of chocolate candy."

"Oh Jake you are the best boyfriend ever."

"Yeah and all it cost me was a complete overhaul of Quil's engine. Starting next week."

"Come here and sit with me."

Jake put the ice cream away and joined her placing her across his lap. He kept his warm hand just below her belly button as they watched TV and talk about all the things he should have told her in the beginning. His fear that if Edward returned she would leave him, about how he blamed himself for the way she was. He poured over every fear and every regret and she listened. She stroked his arm and didn't speak until he told her about them missing Victoria the night of prom.

"Jake that wasn't your fault none of this is. It is Edward's and mine. I don't even blame the rest of the Cullen's any more. You are my saving grace Jake. You make me better with everything you do. Don't you see that? My Jacob. My beautiful Sun any anger or fear I ever had is replaced with love because of you. You, your brothers, and the Cullen's will get her. It is just a matter of time and until then I want to enjoy my summer with my new family, so no more talk about her or Edward for the summer. Promise?"

"Promise."

"Good now go make me a Sundae with lots of marshmallows, syrup and peanut M&M's please and then come back and be my personal heating pad some more."

"Anything you want Beautiful."

June was a busy month for them. Soon after that night at Jake's Jake received a letter from Rose.

Jacob,

I know you never expected to receive a letter but I wanted to touch base with you about some things to come. Carlisle told me that you were restoring a VW Rabbit from the axles up and that you were the one who kept Bella's truck running. He said you planned on putting hand controls in it and giving it to Bella so she can have some freedom again. You are a good guy, Wolf Boy. Anyway, Emmett and I are sending you a gift. It should arrive by next week. Carlisle said use the Black Amex as much as you need to get them both in working order before the end of summer. Then do something about that truck of hers will ya. It is embarrassing but she loves it. Emmett and I will swing by at the end of June to check on you two. Don't let her brood.

Rose

True to her word a week later. Mr. Dowling brought a 1971 Chevy Barracuda. Jake was a little kid at Christmas telling Bella all about it and what his plans were for it. She smiled as she watched him clean it and make a list of the parts he would need.

"So what are you gonna do with the Rabbit Jake."

"It is yours Bells."

"That is sweet but I have a car and I can't drive right now."

"Well I am gonna fix that. I am gonna put in hand controls so you can drive the Rabbit. I want you to have some freedom Bells."

"Jake I don't know what to say."

"Don't worry the truck is on my list to fix too but right now the Rabbit will be easier for you.

"I love you Jacob."

"I love ya too Bells."

Bella's mornings and nights were filled with Jake's hands as they did her stretches. His hands that were calloused but gentle as they moved across her skin. He pulled and massaged her legs and arms. Every touch of his hands made her whole body come alive. The electrical charge she felt as soon as his fingertips landed on her bare skin made her gasp and the stretching sessions left her breathless. Something was definitely different about them than the rest of the imprints. The connection was strong. Their afternoons were spent at the Taj. Jake had taken the Rabbit out of the Taj and brought Quil's car in. Bella sat in her chair, handed Jake his tools, and watched her grease monkey do what he did best. He could fix anything. Hell he was fixing her with every touch and kiss. Every I love you repaired her shattered heart.

By the time Emmett and Rose arrived near the end of June, Jake had finished Quil's engine and moved on to the Rabbit. All the parts he had ordered had arrived and he was working on putting on new tires when they arrived.

"Wolf Boy I would have thought you would have worked on the 'Cuda first."

He turned to see Rose standing there in her work coveralls with her baseball cap on her head. "Nope Blondie. Bella will always come first.

"Good answer Wolf Boy. Would you like some help?"

"You mean you want to get those perfectly manicured hands dirty."

"I take it Bella didn't tell you I am the family grease monkey huh?"

"Nope."

"Well I figure I could give you a hand. Not that I doubt Bella's tool handling skills but if you want real help. I don't mind. What is next after the tires?"

"I have to rebuild the engine."

"Do you have all the parts?"

"Yep."

We'll let Emmett finish putting on the tires and he and Bella can take them down to Dowling's to make sure they are balanced and you and I can work on this engine for a few hours and then we have to head out. Carlisle and Esme are heading up to Alaska for a few weeks."

"Okay." Jake knew there was something major going on but decided to wait until Bella and Emmett were gone before pressing the issue. Once he had finished the tires, loaded Bella, and all four tires in his truck Emmett took off for Dowling's leaving Jake and Rose alone. "Okay Blondie out with it. What is up?"

"You aren't stupid Wolf Boy I will give you that,"

"You and I both know you probably have the balancing equipment at home."

"I do but you are right I need to talk to you alone. First, there is the issue of Victoria. Apparently, she has been hanging in the wilds of Canada since Prom and Laurent has taken off from Denali. Apparently not even Irina's charms were enough to keep him on the animals' only bandwagon. Carlisle is afraid he may have joined her again and even if he hasn't Bella's scent is something he is not likely to forget."

"Okay, let me guess issue number two has to do with your brother."

"You guessed correctly. He wants Bella back."

"She doesn't want him."

"I know that. I saw her today and I can't believe the difference in her. She belongs here but Edward is a killer Jacob and if he can't have her for Eternity he will kill her."

"He won't get close enough ever again."

"I hope you are right. I for one do not trust him."

"I thought you guys were family but I noticed you and Edward seemed to not like each much. Bella said you were against them from the start and didn't like her very much."

"It wasn't that I didn't like Bella. She is a lovely girl who has yet to live."

Jake could not help but notice the sadness that crept into Rose's eyes as she spoke of Bella. "So your problem is with Edward?"

"Yes, he used his vampire abilities to lure her into our world simply because he could. And continued to use them until the only thing she could think of was him and her want to be one of us."

"You don't sound like you like being this way."

"I don't. I mean don't get me wrong kid. I enjoy the things we have and I love Esme and Carlisle and appreciate the fact that he did not let me die in the gutter but if I had a choice the first time I would not have chosen this life."

"What happened to you?"

"As you can probably tell I was beautiful even then and our family name meant old money even if there was not much of it left the name still carried weight. So when Royce King came courting my mother and father were thrilled as was I because in my shallowness I only saw him as a handsome face. I didn't know he had no substance or class under the fancy facade.

One day I went to visit a friend who had not long been married, she had had a baby a few months before, and what I saw there threw me for a loop. She had none of the trappings that we were accustomed to but she was happier than I had ever seen her. Their little boy was the sweetest thing with his chubby cheeks and legs and what she said to me stayed seared in my brain forever, Marry for love Rose not money. Money can't keep you warm or hold you when you cry. So when I went home I was determined to do just that and I was happy to see Royce was waiting for me outside when I arrived. I thought for a minute he wanted to tell me her loved me. That was until I got closer that I realized just how drunk he and his friends were. They raped me, beat me and threw me in the gutter to die. Carlisle found me and turned me in hopes that I would be Edward's mate but he didn't want me.

So I set out for revenge against the men who killed me and I got it without ever tasting human blood and I was content for a while but lonely until I came upon Emmett as he was being mauled by a bear. I killed the bear, took him back to Carlisle, and begged him to either save him or change him and the rest is history. But there are days when I can't help but wonder what our children and grandchildren would be like and what a wonderful father Emmett would be but we are stuck being forever 18."

Jake had stayed silent as he listened to her story. The sadness of it all overwhelmed him but in that moment, he realized something about the Cullen's. Carlisle had turned them only because he couldn't find any other way to save them. He was as good as Bella said, Emmett and Rose were not half bad. He wasn't so sure about the Pixie and her mate. She seemed too close to Edward for his liking and her mate well he just was a little creepy.

"Rose I am sorry your human life ended that way but your attitude towards that brother of yours makes more sense now."

"Jake, what I saw of him since Emmett took him back to Alaska concerns me for both of you so enjoy your summer but be careful. Emmett and I have some more research to do for Bella's sake but we will be back by the end of August. Stay on the Rez as much as possible. He will not risk incurring Carlisle wrath by breaking the treaty."

"Thanks for the heads up."

"Anytime. If you need either of us, Here are our numbers, let's get this engine in Emmett is headed back this way with your girl." She said as she picked up the engine. "Get under there and make sure it is all lined up before I drop it in."

"You are all good." He said as slid out from under the car.

He watched in awe as she carefully lowered the engine in and zipped under the car to tighten the bolts.

It is all yours wolf boy."

"Thanks, you saved me about 12 hours."

"I know when you get started on the 'Cuda let me know. I will come back if I can and help."

Emmett and Bella arrived a short time later and Rose and Emmett took off not long after that leaving Jake and Bells alone.

It wasn't until they were alone at the beach on their driftwood log that Bella had the courage to ask. "So what did Rose need to tell you?"

"I was wondering when you were gonna ask."

"Yeah."

"She just wanted me to be aware of what was going on with Victoria, Laurent and Edward."

Laurent?" I thought he was with the Denali sisters."

"He was but Rose said he had left them by the time they arrived in Alaska this last time."

"And Victoria?"

"In the wilds of Canada biding her time."

"And Edward?"

"He wants you back."

"Well I am not afraid."

"Maybe you should be Bells." He said softly.

"Jake I have my second chance to have a real family and I will not let anything cause me to miss it."

"I love ya Bells."

"I love you too Jake. Take me home."

By the end of June Bella was feeling stronger. She was happier than she had ever been. Her relationship with Charlie had grown to the point where she called him every day just to say I love you. Jake had finished the Rabbit and had been giving her lessons all week. She had gotten it down enough he took her into Forks and let her surprised Charlie. Charlie stood in the driveway next to Jake as his daughter showed him how the hand controls worked. She had never seen Charlie smile like that.

Charlie swore after that day he didn't care that Bells spent all her time with Jake, Hell Billy and the kid could move in because he had never seen his daughter so animated not since she was little and she and Jake would go to the tide pools. They had stayed until Charlie had to leave for work with a promise to come back, clean, and cook on his next day off. Charlie could not get over the change in Bella. He smiled all day at work after they left.

July started with a heat wave. In more ways than one especially when Jake would spend the morning caressing her naked skin. These morning session more often than not, end with an orgasm or two. When he was done, he would pull his shirt over her head and head straight to the bathroom. Bella couldn't help but blush every time Sam shot Jake a knowing glance to which Jacob would just shrug his shoulders and continue on his merry way.

The one thing that had change is they had added weight lifting to her therapy to strengthen her core muscles. They had to go to the tribal community center to use the weight equipment Carlisle had donated and for the first two days, it was quiet. On the third day, however Leah Clearwater came in to the community center. Jacob was too focused on supporting Bella to even notice. He was completely wrapped up in the sweat that was trickling down her back to notice but Bella couldn't help but notice the girl who was boring holes through her. She leaned back to whisper to Jake and he placed his nose in the crook of her neck causing a small moan to escape her lips.

"One would think Chief's Swan's daughter would know it is illegal to have sex in public."

Jake let out a low growl as he looked up to see Leah Clearwater standing against far wall. "Go away, Leah."

"Nope don't have to this place belongs to the whole tribe not just Sam and his minions. Speaking of leaving if anyone should it should be Swan here. She is not a member of this tribe."

"She is as far as Dad and I are concerned."

"Like your opinions are the only ones that matter. Jacob Black you have spent way too much time with Sam."

"Leah please just go." Jake begged. Bella could feel him start to vibrate and she placed her hand on his thigh and pushed back against him. He immediately stopped and focused on her.

Leah took it all in and could not resist one last jab. "What is it with you Uley boys all having things for crips."

Bella felt Jake's whole body shake. She did the only thing she could think of. "So this is Leah Clearwater, well she is nothing like Sam described. I have seen nothing kind, gentle, or beautiful in this behavior." Before she knew what was happening Leah was in her face and Jake had his hands tightly around her middle.

"Don't talk about what you do not know Swan or I will have to break you in two but wait you have done that to yourself already you clumsy bitch." With that Leah was gone almost taking the door right off the hinges as she went.

"Bells let go." Jake said as he wrenched the bar from her hands. She was dumbstruck and so was Jake. "We have to go I have to talk to Sam." He said as he dumped her in her chair and headed for the door. He loaded her in the car and drove like a bat out of hell to Sam's place. He came to a screeching halt and jumped out. He hauled her chair out, put her in it and handed her her transfer board before pushing her up the ramp Sam had added so she could come and go as she pleased. He burst through the door to find the house empty except for Emily.

"Where is the fire Jake?" She asked smiling at him.

"Where is Sam. I need to talk to him Em."

"He is out checking on the boys who are close. Quil and Little Seth."

"Seth? Damn he is like 13 Em."

"I know Jake and Sam says he doesn't think the Cullen's are the reason they are turning like we first thought."

"Well they aren't the only ones."

What do you mean?"

"I mean Bella and I had a confrontation with Leah this morning."

"No Jake that is not possible."

"What is not possible?" Sam asked as he walked into the house.

"Jake thinks Lee is beginning the transformation."

"Not possible it has never happened to a female."

"Well from what I saw this morning. I would bet my life on it."

"Damn it." Sam screamed before shoving the kitchen chair against the wall before he ran out of the house.

Emily practically collapsed and Jake did the only thing he could he caught her and held her and Bella held on to both of them as they heard the anguished cry from Sam's wolf in the distance. When she had calmed down enough Jake went to find Sam. He found him at the Alpha cabin. He was crying when Jake placed his hand on his shoulders. "Sam." He said quietly.

"It can't happen to her Jake. It just can't. She of all people can't see inside my head. I would rather she hate me forever then know the truth that I was too weak of a man to even fight to stay with her."

"Oh Sam, you and I both know it wasn't that simple. But maybe it won't, I could be wrong. Come on you need to get home the girls are worried."

"Don't tell Em. Promise?"

"I promise."

The pack held their Fourth of July bonfire on Second Beach the Saturday after the confrontation with Leah. They had even invited Charlie. Jake took great pleasure in watching Bella while she laughed and talked with his brothers. He smiled as she threw her head back and laughed at something Paul said.

"It is a beautiful sight isn't it," Charlie said.

"Oh hey Charlie yeah she is beautiful always has been."

"Jake, I know I have given you a hard time. Hell you are only 15 but the change in my daughter has made me a believer. I see the love you have for one another, the way she gravitates toward you but it is different than the relationship she had with Cullen. I can see that now."

"I love her Charlie. She is my life and one day she will be my wife but we are not rushing it. We are happy as we are. I will never disrespect her, Charlie or you. She is looking forward to coming home in August and I will gladly let you to have as much father daughter time as you want. I know how much you have missed her."

"That is all I can ask Jake and that if you do sleep in her room with her you be gone in the morning so I don't have to think about what you kids are doing."

Jake threw his head back and laughed. "Okay Charlie."

As music blared from Paul's portable radio Jake could resist. "Dance with me Bells."

She did not hesitate as she wound her arms around his neck and buried her head in his shoulder as he picked her up and walked her to a quiet corner of the sand. As he began crooning to her softly the whole party stopped. All eyes were on them as he sang.

You with the sad eyes

Don't be discouraged

Oh I realize

It's hard to take courage

In a world full of people

You can lose sight of it all

And the darkness inside you

Can make you feel so small

But I see your true colors

Shining through

I see your true colors

And that's why I love you

So don't be afraid to let them show

Your true colors

True colors are beautiful,

Like a rainbow

Show me a smile then,

Don't be unhappy, can't remember

When I last saw you laughing

If this world makes you crazy

And you've taken all you can bear

You call me up

Because you know I'll be there

And I'll see your true colors

Shining through

I see your true colors

And that's why I love you

So don't be afraid to let them show

Your true colors

True colors are beautiful,

Like a rainbow

As they continue to sway to the music, Sam was joined by Carlisle.

"They truly are two halves of a whole."

"Yes are you satisfied with the changes we have made to the treaty."

"It is more than we expected. Rose and Emmett will be here around the first week of August."

You have proven yourselves trustworthy and our tribe is grateful."

"We are grateful to young Jacob. He will make a great Alpha someday."

"Yes he will and I pray your son chooses not to cross him."

"I pray for that as well because I know who will win if he does. Esme and I will say goodnight to Bella and Jacob and be on our way. I have appointments with Bella's specialists this week."

"Are you still planning on having the surgeries here?"

"Yes if that changes you will be the first to know."

"Have you given any more thought to my other offer?"

"Yes, but Emily still says no that Bella needs her here. Honestly I think she thinks if she fixes her face I will leave."

"Well the offer is open any time."

"Thank you for all you have done."

"It is the least I can do."

The rest of July was hot a steamy at least as hot and steamy as it got in Forks. Jake and Bella's relationship heated up too when she finally found out why he had her body wash in his shower.

"Oh that helps?"

"Yeah...It helps"

Can I watch?"

"What? No, you most certainly cannot watch. Bella Swan what has gotten into you?"

"I blame it on this heat."

"Yeah right okay."

"But I really do wanna watch."

"No Bells."

"Okay." She said with a giggle as she kissed his pink cheek.

August was Bella's favorite month of all three that she spent at La Push. She spent every waking moment with Jake. He had taken the night shift with Sam so he could spend his days with her and Billy. The 'Cuda got finished in Early August thanks to Rose and he took her and Billy for rides around the Rez in it. He couldn't wait until he had a real license and could drive it on the open road. He loved the sound she made when he would rev the engine and take off squealing down the dirt road that lead to the cliffs. He loved it most of all when she came apart in the back seat overlooking the water as her body involuntarily convulsed around his fingers and electricity zapped her core. She still couldn't feel anyone else's touch and he wasn't sure it was so much his touch but the electricity that seemed to pulse between them but he knew she would eventually but it made their intimate moments all the more so.

As the summer wound down Billy and Charlie left them alone more often. They tried to fit in as many fishing trips as they could. Their time was usually spent sprawled out on the couch eating Rocky Road out of the carton in between kisses, watching Food Network, and old movies until one night out of the blue his lips fused with hers and he lifted her up and headed to the bathroom. By the time, he put her down on the shower seat she was naked, dizzy and disoriented especially considering the seat was nowhere near the shower head has her back pressed against the cold tile.

"Jake?"

"Isabella?" He said as he reached out a hand to stroke her face

Jake." She whispered again as she turned her lips to kiss his palm.

"Do you want to see?"

It took a second for her to register as he held up the bottle of her body wash. "Yes, please." She begged.

He placed the body wash in her hands and dropped his shorts on the floor before stepping into the tub in front of her and turning on the shower. This was the first time she had seen him fully erect and it took her breath away.

Now do you see why we must wait until you are no longer in pain before we complete our mating Isabella?"

She had lost the power to speak so she nodded as he took the bottle from her hand and poured a generous amount on the tip. As it ran down the sides, his nostrils flared and he let out a guttural moan as he grabbed the base and went to work. Bella was enraptured in watching his hand as it ran from base to tip. She got so caught up in the sights, sounds, and smell of him that she didn't seem to care his cum was all over her. Without a word he took her body washed and cleaned her from head to toe before wrapping her in a towel and taking her straight to bed, He kissed her forehead "I love you Bells." He whispered.

"I love you too Jacob, I understand now." And she did understand more than before that when sex happened between them both Jake and the wolf would let go and she needed to be strong enough to hold on for all three of them.

The last two weeks of her summer at La Push went by too fast, the last night went even faster as Jake held her close and whispered to her as she cried herself to sleep. By the time, he returned her to Charlie after lunch that final day Bella was a mess. He couldn't blame her. He was kinda of a mess too. Charlie watched from the window as she told him goodbye. She clung to him like a lifeline in a storm and he guessed Jake was just that for her. In all the craziness, he had been her anchor and for that, Charlie would welcome him to the family with open arms when the time came.

"See ya later Bells. I love you."

"I love you too Jake so much."

"I will call you later and see you tomorrow after therapy."

"Promise?"

"With all that I am." He hugged her one last time and breathed her in before going and climbing in Sam's pickup truck. He kept his head down as he heard her break down as Charlie helped her inside. Sam put his hand on his shoulder "She will be alright. She is stronger than even she knows." Sam offered.

"I know and something tells me she will have to be even stronger."