#AUWorld

[blazingtheway]

Your Top-shelf is Going to be Mine. – Storyline 16 - Together - Part 2

•- Leah Clearwater -•

 “By the spirits!”

The words a gasp as i turned into him and then out again. My hair falling Free down my shoulders and over my back as he moved us both with the song.

“Embry!” Trying to tell him off for disrespecting me, but I ended up laughing moving in step with him.

•- Embry Call -•

I grinned when she decided to dance with me instead of rolling her eyes and getting back to the task at hand. "Spirits" I muttered and leaned in to brush the tip of my nose against her jaw as we danced. "That sound!" I almost groaned.

It was truly one of the most beautiful sounds in my life. "Look at you living, in the moment like a pro." I teased.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Biting the inside of my cheeks, my eyes closed feeling the small traces of blood rushing at the touch.

My feet moved in time with his with the music.  “Hmm… also not trying to lead… the spirits must be impressed with me, right?”

•- Embry Call -•

My nose reached her ear and I whispered. “I like it when you lead. You can take the lead anytime… I won't tell.” I chuckled and dropped a kiss just below her ear.

“But it is good to balance the two.” I spun her away and brought her back again me. My chest flushed against  back and my arm wrapped around her so completely that all we could do now was sway a little off the beat of the song.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

My hair flew around me, leaning against his back as it fell softly over my shoulders and down my back. “It’s about finding that perfect balance” I agreed. Listing to how our heartbeat sounded with music.

Swaying with him my eyes moved to the hob. “We need to get back to work.”

•- Embry Call -•

I breathed in and smell of her hair. My world and I both ruffled at the sensation it gave.  “The Spirit had a plan when they led down the same path” I planted a kiss on her shoulder and nodded.

“We really should. Plenty of time for dancing after food.” I smiled and stepped back. “What can I do to help?”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Drinks? I’ll check the food.” It was fine, I could tell for the aroma in the kitchen. Everything was cooking to perfection.

Once he stepped back, I stepped forward watching his reflection in the mirror as I worked.

•- Embry Call -•

I nodded and went the fridge lifting out two more beers, downing the last if the one I left on the counters before tossing it into the recycling. A jug of water already sat in the table.

I uncapped the bottle and set them on either side in the table. “Damn that all smell good!” I almost groaned as my stomach rumbled impatiently.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“It should, I made it.” Brushing off the non-existent lint on my shoulders. Winking at him as I plated the food. Watching him as he walked pass behind me.

Finishing off the drink he’d giving me before, I carried the food to the tables and took my seat. “This is becoming a habit now.” Sitting back, I pulled my hair up into a messy bun.

•- Embry Call -•

“Boasting is a good look on you!” I Grinned. She was always confident, but never really bragged… not seriously anyway. And even now that wasn’t what she was doing.

I paused. My hand was halfway to my fork, watching as each inch of that very kissable neck was exposed. “If you mean you teasing me across the kitchen table until I want to let the food, go cold and do very bad things to you?” I smirked, finally lifting my fork. “Yes…. Yes, it is becoming a habit.”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Raising my eyebrow in a perfect arch I shook my head.

“Our ancestors would be mortified to learn you’re willing to pass over food for a woman. What is the world coming to?”

With the fork in hand, I went in for the veggie cooked to perfection. The first bite made the world  come to life with the flavour burst and crunch as I chewed.

“Eat up, the deliciously bad things come after.” Waggling my eyebrows at him with a smirk.

•- Embry Call -•

"The ancestors will more than understand when it comes to this particular woman." I smiled and speared a forkful of veg and sliced into the chicken. 

I took and bite and her next words had me stopping with my mouthful... Damn, this is good! "Is that a promise or a threat?" I raised a brow and lifted the beer to my lips. "Because I'm down for either..." I tilted my head. "Or both."

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Rolling my eyes to the heavens, I continued to chew on my mouthful. Leaving him with the prosthetic of what could be, was too good to miss.

Once my mouth was empty, I took a long pull from my beer before speaking. “Think of it as you wish. Only time and your choices will definitely determine which it is.”

Pointedly taking another mouthful of food.

•- Embry Call -•

“Now I’m torn…” I pointed my fork at the plate. “It would be a shame to rush such a delicious meal… but… now I  really wanna see what kind of follow-through you have planned.” I grinned.

Leah Clearwater always had a plan.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Chewing as I consider what he said. “Hmm… never took you for one of those who rushed anything.”

Taking a pull from the bottle before I set it down to pick up my fork again. “Learning new things tonight, Call.”

•- Embry Call -•

I smiled at her utterly unashamed at how cheesy i was about to be.  “Some people are worth rushing a meal for… even if they’re probably about to kick arse.”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Raising my eyebrow, my lips curled up into the perfect smirk. “So… so… so…. Cheesy Embry Call. I’d expected something better from some who had an award for word play.”

Kicking his foot playfully under the table. “I’m only rushing my dinner because of the cheese cake in  the refrigerator.” The look on my face daring him to question my statement. Even if my eyes lingered on his lips a minute too long.

•- Embry Call -•

"You know I always speak my mind, even if it's cheesy." I smiled and took another bite... hell. This was so good. My eyes lit up... "Now you're talking my language." After another bite, I smiled. I noticed her gaze locked on my lips. "Got any ice cream?"

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“And I wouldn’t have it any other way. I know where I stand with you. Always have. ”Good or bad, this one always gave it how it was. Even if it earned him a slap upside his head. Stabbing my fork into the pasta I raised my eyebrow. “It’s as though you don’t know me. Yeah, I do.”

•- Embry Call -•

I smiled… she did know… we both we both knew. I groaned at another forkful of the food… damn she could cook!

“I know… rookie move.” I held my hands up in surrender, fork, and all. “I just had a sudden craving.” I smirked now… “remember the last tune we ate ice-cream... In  bed.”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Mid chew my mouth stopped with my gaze growing a little darker. Heat crawled its way up my neck and I cleared my throat. Setting my fork down I lifted my drink to my lips to dampen the dry sensation and then nodded my head once.

“Have you known me to forget anything.” Sprits be my guide. I could recall every single second of that last time.

•- Embry Call -•

That memory got her blood rushing, I could tell with the tinge of pink climbing up her elegant neck. I chuckled... but it was a low sound... because the memory was having the same effect on me.

"I still can't believe that you didn't dunk me for kissing you out in the open like that.”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Cutting into my meat my gaze back on him. “Oh, trust me I wanted to. But she’s been fighting your corner from the beginning.”

She stirred at the mention of her, I felt the sly smile and the same pride she felt for her choice to bank of him.

‘I told you; we could trust him.’ rolling my eyes I shook my head slightly.

“If it were on me, you would have gone under.” Hundred percent truth.

•- Embry Call -•

I chuckled around another bite. “Oh, I know.” I teased. “But she had my back.” I winked across the table. “She likes me.” I teased in an almost-sing-sing tone. “And I made sure we were completely alone first.”

My eye stayed on hers,  looking down only to make sure I wasn’t  making a mess with my food. “And you liked it… the wildness…”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Has..” both my warrior and I say at the exact same time. “She has your back.” Correcting the past tense in his statement.

Raising my eyebrow while watching the show he put on. Shaking my head once again, but I was smiling. “Clearly she saw something in you before I slowed down enough to see it.”

This made her send me a scoff. ‘Of course, I did, I’m always the one to see things like this first.’ Now see got an eye roll too.

“I didn’t say I didn’t like it.” Heat flashed up the side of my next at the memory. “And I know you checked first.”

•- Embry Call -•

I chuckled. “I know… She has great taste. Not that she needs me to tell her that.”

I smiled at her… my heart giving another few out of rhythm thumps at the memory… the freezing water, the heat of her body, that kiss while the thrill of the fall still coursed through us. “We should do it again sometime…” I smirked. “Maybe off the Rez… just in case.”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Look who is learning about restraint?” Sitting back in the chair, setting the fork down to replace it with my drink.

I watched him carefully, my eyes in his face, but my ears… they were listening to his heart casing my lips to curl up into a smirk.

“Do you need anything  more?” Asking as I nod to the hob to the side. “There is more if you want anything.” It always made sense to cook enough food, hunger was never far for a spirit warrior.

•- Embry Call -•

I laughed… the fact that was calling that restraint. “Actually… I would call it more… Planning ahead so I don’t need to use restraint.” Then I immediately added. “That did not sound kinky in my head.”

I thought about it for a second. “And fill up before the ice cream?” I  laughed; I didn’t think it was possible for a Warrior to feel full…. Well that’s not entirely true. #Paul and I tested it one time. It was not pretty.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Fork frozen mid-way to my mouth with my eyebrow curled up into a perfect arch. By the Spirits why did that made me squeeze my thighs together?

Shaking my head slowly my lips parted to say something and then I just ate my food. There were no safe words to be used about now.

“Hmm…” the only sound I dared to let out, while this man across the table from me, tested my control. (Or at least that’s how it felt.)

•- Embry Call -•

I froze a second after she did… My wolf and I were entwined so deeply that it was impossible for me not tuned into the scents all around me… especially when I was with Leah. She smelled amazing, and right now…

“Hmm…”I raised a  brow. “Maybe I should intend to be  kinky?” I smiled… the shift in her scent. “Maybe we should change those dessert plans?” Her scent had my mouth watering… and not for ice cream.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

The tip of my tongue licked my bottom lip. He wasn’t the only one in the room whose could pick up on things. The body language, scents, the way his warrior wasn’t far too.

“Hmm…” biting on the inside of my cheek. “Why change the plans? Isn’t it better to adapt them?” the idea of his mind going to different directions… Spirits… this man was sent to test me.

•- Embry Call -•

My smile spread slow and wide across my features. She really was just full of excellent ideas…

“So… ice cream in bed again?” I teased. “You know that could get messy… we probably need to shower right after.” I waggled my brows. But then… just to throw her.. and turn her on all at once I picked up her empty plate and smiled.

“We should cleaned up first.” I gave her a knowing smile and headed to the sink.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Sitting up straight, crossing my legs under the table my head following him as he walked to the sink with the dishes in hand.

“You know how to turn a woman on.” He knew I meant the cleaning up comment. (Of course, the thought of eating ice cream in bed and showering too.) SPIRTS. “Talk about breaking all the rules”.

Shaking my head when the throbbing between my legs had been eased, I stood up clearing away the rest of the table before walking over to him bare foot to help dry.

•- Embry Call -•

I chuckled. "Oh, if you think this is sexy... you should see me mop... It's almost like a floor show." I bit my lip as I ran the tap and scrubbed the plates.

"Spirits." I muttered, that scent... it made me a different kind of hungry. "Or... we can just skip the rest and put these counters to good use right now." My blood heated the scent in the air... Fuck! She smelled so good.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Clocking the lip bit in his side profile I couldn’t help myself. I stepped up to him turning him face towards me and place a soft kiss on his lips. My tongue darting out to free that bite of his, only to replace it with mine.

“I want to bite your lips every time you do that.” I kissed him again before pulling away and picking up a plate.

“We’ve come a long way to leave a job half done.” But my eyes darted over to the counter where he had shown me other ways to enjoy my kitchen.

•- Embry Call -•

I groaned at the flick of her tongue against my lips, I had to restrain myself from squeezing the glass in my hand so tightly it would shatter.

“Every single time I bite you, you can assume it’s an invitation for you to do it instead.” My voice was a whisper, then it deepened. That kid was far too short. “It’s always better when you do it.”

I could resist, three minutes, that all it would take to finish these dishes… then hoist her onto those counters she was eyeing and take as long as wanted just kissing her. Three minutes. I washed faster.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Softly laughing my shoulders with the sound of it. I could see the determination in his posture. He wanted those dishes washed, yesterday!

“If you break my dishes, Embry Call. There will be hell to pay.” I wasn’t attached to them, but we needed to be able to control some  parts of us, right?

‘Wasn’t the point of the bubble, so you didn’t need to?’ She stirred turning her back on us. She never stayed up to watch because she trusted him. (Unless he woke her up. And then there was no stopping her.)

I shook my head drying and packing as I went.

•- Embry Call -•

I smiled. "Hey, I have better self-control than that." I protested, just barely... but that was enough. I held up the perfectly intact glass to prove it.

I set the last clean dish on the rack and dried my hands as she finished up and packed it away. Then I was right there when she turned back from the cupboard. A hand on the counters on either side of her. I dropped my voice low...

"Now what?"

•- Leah Clearwater -•

I heard his feet in the cold kitchen floor. Smiling as I set the last of the dishes away and turned to face him with the tea towel in my hand. The half-moon space he created around me with his arms had my eyebrow raised in a perfect arch.

“Now what?” Licking my bottom lip “Weren’t you talking about dessert?” Tilting my head to the side, letting my hair fall free over my shoulder.

•- Embry Call -•

My stomach rioted; my eyes fixated on the way she licked her lips. Was jealousy right word for thinking that should be me tongue tracing that perfectly plump lip?

“Dessert…” I let every ounce of desire flood my tone and I hoisted up onto the counter with a firm grip on her  hips. Fuck! Was there any part of this woman that wasn’t sexy as hell.

“Let’s start with a taste.” I flicked my tongue right where hers had just been. My fingers dragging down the outside of her impressive thighs. Then I kissed her, diving in, deep and passionate.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

By the Spirits! My stomach turned in a delicious wave of desire pushing it when his strong hands took a hold and with one swiping motion I was off my feet and my arse settled on top of the counter.

A gasp escaped my lips with my hands moving to rest on his shouldered, taking  him in. Before I could say anything, our lips were connected, his tongue and mine entwined, my own hands in his hair.

•- Embry Call -•

I kissed her, pulling her right the edge of the counter where my body was keeping her from slipping off. My hands moved back up her thighs, her waist…. Around her back and up until my hand could tangle in her hair making groan.

The other fisted in the back of her shirt. My caught her hitting lip and tugged until it slipped free. I locked eyes with her. “I’d there anything you don’t do well?” I teased. “Best dessert ever.”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

I wouldn’t fall, 1 - because he wouldn’t let me. And B - because I wouldn’t let me. He tasted of dinner, and beer, of the Earth of our lands, and of… Embry. A scent and taste I hadn’t had before, and I knew there wouldn’t be one like it again.

My back arch into his direction, chest to chest, when the bust of our scents combined together. A moan pulled free by him sent a blot of electricity straight to my clenched muscles. “If you can’t do it well. Then why try?” Flicking the tip of my tongue over his lips. The throbbing sensation building.

•- Embry Call -•

Her chest pressed into mine and I could feel with all of her.  I moaned her name, but it was swallowed up by the deep kiss. I pressed my hips against her and smirked letting her feel the full effect she had on me. "Well... You get an A plus, Trouble."

Her scent shifted and  new kind of hunger filled me.  "Damn, you smell too fucking good."

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“As long as you’re not scoring me on a curve, Dimples.” The end of my sentence went up towards the end at feeling his reaction to our closeness.

“Spirits…” peppering his lips with kisses between my words. “You feel so good.” My arse had been placed at the edge of the  counter by him, and I’d locked my ankles around his waist. I used the two to keep my balance as I rocked to cause some friction between us.

•- Embry Call -•

I moaned softly, her body heat seeping into me. Her warmth was unlike any other I had ever experienced. Her kisses made me smile, made my heart skip with each one. “Can’t grade on curve when there ones only one student.” I breathed. “Only you.”

My hand gripped her hip… then slipped my hand beneath her shirt to feel the hard muscles of her waist and back. “Spirits, Leah…” I wasn’t he only the felt good.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Shivers moved smoothly over my skin being touched by his hands. The proof of his determination to music could be felt with the rough calluses of those hands. His heart and moans sang to me, making me reply in the same way too.

“Only you…” Sprits! This mad man and I were  walking this path in our own way for sure. Because I wasn’t even thinking of running now.

“Embry…” shivering at his touch, tilting my head I deepen the kiss again. Needing more now.

•- Embry Call -•

Every muscle in my body went tight… at first… those first two words, they woke the beast inside and my arms tightened around her, pushing her shirt up her back as I did, closing any possible space between our bodies.

Then those same muscles turned molten when she said my  name like that. Her kiss deepened and I whispered her name back to her, but it was lost in the breaths and whimpers and soft sounds of our kiss. “What have you done to me?” I managed to whisper before I pressed my tongue past her lips again. Joy and gratitude flooded my tone.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

What had I done? Was there any chance we could answer that question to its fullest? No, I didn’t think so.

And it hadn’t been me… it was us… we had done this together. He and I walked this path that brought us here tonight… and we weren’t done.

I didn’t reply with words. I parted my lips to let him in. I shifted and edged into him, feeling his heart pounding next to mine. And I gave him his answer with the way this all felt between us right now.

•- Embry Call -•

The question had been more than rhetorical. It was unanswerable… a statement really… a prayer and please to the spirits the showed us this road and let us follow it. A thank you, to them… not her. Because this… wasn't something we tanked each other for.

We gave and accepted equal measure. Her answer came in closeness, in matched passion and synced heartbeats. She had no answer, she didn't need one or want one… just like me. The kiss slowed and deepened all at once as we clung to one another.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

His heart took over, it’s all I wanted to listen to in this moment. Listening to the message it shared kept me in place in the kitchen counter.

The coolness of the counter top seeping in from below, I moved my hands to cup his face. The days stubble prickly to my fingers. I smiled as I kissed him. Feeling that connection, we shared. Slowly pulling back, I opened my eyes to take him in.

Embry Call, his eyes, his nose, his lips… “Well, this is a new kind of a dessert menu.” Teasing with that smile still on my features.

•- Embry Call -•

A low hum escaped from me, and I pressed my cheek into her palm. Savouring the touch, when I opened my eyes, I found hers flitting from feature to feature on my face.

My hands slide down her back to her waist, still against her bare, heated skin under her shirt. "Still in the  mood for ice cream?" I asked, licking the lingering taste of her from my lips. "Or should continue to fulfil all your cravings."

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Still smiling, I snapped my teeth at him. There were so many ways to take this conversation, but for now…. With him and I, this heated embrace. We really needed something to cool off a little.

“The deal was to have ice cream.” Raising my eyebrow at him as I spoke. “We cannot, not have some.” The tips of his fingers lingering under my shirt, add a slight gasp to my words now.

•- Embry Call -•

My stomach twisted in that incredible way, and I bit my lip with a groan. That snap was sexy as all hell. I kissed her, flicking my tongue again her lips Before I whisper. “Who am I to deny you anything, Trouble?”

I slipped my hands from her hips. The heat of her bare skin was  instantly missed.

“Don’t move.” I smirked and stepped away, heading to the freezer, I fished out the first tub I saw and set it on the counter. I gaze locking hers in again as I slipped between her knees. I opened the drawer next to her and pulled out a spoon, without once  looking away from her. Then I scooped out a spoonful and held it out before her with a grin.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Heat rushed up the side of my neck, watching him moving though my kitchen without a question or a doubt. He looked comfortable, like he belonged and wanted to all at the same time.

Licking my bottom lip, smiling at how he strutted over to my freezer, found the tub of frozen ice cream, returned without a misstep, and found a spoon without breaking eye contact.

“That is so sexy!” Raising a perfectly curved eyebrow at him.

Parting my lips for the spoon, I leant towards him closing them around the offering, and letting out the most delicious moan. curling my long legs back around his waist.

“I wasn’t expecting the service.” Letting the ice cream melt on my lips before kissing him so that he could taste it too.

•- Embry Call -•

My lips parted… a light exhale escaping as her kiss plumped lips closed around the spoonful. My skin suddenly felt too tight. And when she caught me around the waist.

“Oh no…” My voice is unexpectedly soft. “That is sexy.” I returned her kiss, tasting her, tasting the ice-cream on her lips. I trace her lip with tongue. “Ice cream never tasted so good before” I smiled.

I scooped out more ice cream and this time I ate it myself. Letting it melt on my tongue.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“It’s a one-of-a-kind flavour…” smirking as I licked my lips. He’d left them tingly again. My hands moved to the side and around his back, drawing gently as my gaze remained on him and his actions. He filled another spoonful, my lips parted and…. “Hey!” Okay so I thought  it was coming to me.

Shaking my head. “Fine… I guess you are allowed to have some too.” Kicking his arse playfully with the heel of my foot around him. “The next spoon is mine.” Snapping my teeth at him.

•- Embry Call -•

I managed a breathy chuckle as my heart lurched watching her lip part expectantly. Fuck!! The places my mind went just thinking about her lips.

“I thought it as only children that were meant to have issues with sharing.” I kissed her, letting her have a taste too. Then I extended another spoonful to her. “You have no idea the depths of my filthy thoughts right now.” I flashed a teasing grin.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

By the Spirits! His cool and then hot lips tasted so good. Sweet and salty, cool and warm. He wasn’t wrong in his assessment. “I don’t share….” Licking my lips pointedly as I watch him refill the spoon.

My fingers moving over his soft skin of their own accord, my lips  parted ready for the next serving, but then a bolt of lightning struck through from my ears to my core.

“Oh…” eyebrow raised in a perfect curve. “Care to share or should I just let my mind wander with the fact you gave me?” This time my lips closed around the spoon slowly.

•- Embry Call -•

I chuckled. “Of course not.” I teased… and yet here she was legs wrapped me, locking me into, sharing not only her home but her personal space, her heat… her breath. She’d cooked for me, even went so far as the near sacred act of sharing ice cream?

I watched her with parted  lips and bated breathed. Glued to every moment like I was witnessing a miracle. My jeans becoming tighter.

“Like all the things I could do to that exquisite, sarcastic mouth.” I bite my lip as I slid the spoon from between those sinfully perfect lips. I dropped my voice to a  whisper. “All the things you could do to me with that mouth.” A shudder of desire ran through me at my own words.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Of course, my gaze dropped to his bitten lips. The need to feel my teeth on them instead of his. His words making me react by taking a slow and steady breath to fill my lungs, counteracting the heat growing in the pit of my stomach.

I scented the change between us as heat  curled its way up the side of my neck, setting every nerve on edge. Images of the last time we were together flashing through my mind. At the feel of him, the scent of him, and the taste…

“Spirits…” I didn’t even know if said it. Tilting my head from side to side trying to clear my head. But …. It wasn’t possible… not with him filling it.

•- Embry Call -•

My gaze locked on her lips and my mind continued playing through memories.... and imagining what new ones we could make together.

My eyes dropped to her throat when she tilted her head. I couldn't stop myself from leaning in and pressing a kiss to her pulse. Her skin was flushed and slightly warmer than her normal temperature.

"Calling on the Spirits now... you really want to share this ice cream tonight." I teased her. I filled this spoon again and held it up to her. My wicked imagination was running riot. "You know... this is definitely  another first."

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“You want me to stop calling on them? You know they’ll find ways to make themselves know if they think I’m blocking them out and not listening. And now—“

His lips on my neck cut the sentence short, sending sensations of pleasure roiling over my skin. “Hmm…” words were never my strong suit anyway.

This time I flicked the ice cream between my lips with the tip of my tongue. But I didn’t eat it. Leaning forward I kissed his neck, dragging a line of melted ice cream from below his ear to the curve of his neck.

“Sharing? Are you sure I am?” Whispering onto his warm skin, I kissed and licked the line I made.

•- Embry Call -•

I chuckled and shook my head. "Not stop..." I smiled. "Never stop.... just... wait until the ice cream is all gone." I teased. My head tilted instantly to the side, and quick blast of cold before her mouth and mine warmed, the ice cream melting, pulled a deep groan from deep down in my stomach.

"Fuck, Trouble!" I bit my lip hard, dropping the spoon into the tub to grip her waist. "If this is your idea of sharing, I strongly approve."

•- Leah Clearwater -•

I couldn’t help myself. Biting his shoulder when he held me. Chuckling a little at his comment of course too. “What do you mean? Wasn’t this your understanding of sharing ice cream too?”

My hands moved over his shoulders letting my nails trace his soft skin as I sat up on the counter top. Locking my ankles around his waist before kissing the spot I bit him. “I’m open to other sharing options, if you have any?” Whispering into the kisses.

•- Embry Call -•

My attempt to answer her wasn't much more a breath and moan. My hand tightened on her waist. I felt her lips over the light bit she gave me... Fingernails against skin... Fuck! Wait... what were we talking about?

Her hold on me tightened... "Sharing?" I whispered and  breathed in her scent... her scent and.... ice cream. We were talking about sharing ice cream.

"Oh, I have so, so many ideas" I whispered arching into every single kiss. I pulled back a little and dipped my finger into the ice cream. "Each one messier than the next," I swiped my finger over the tip of her nose and then quickly licked away the ice cream before the heat of her skin could melt it away.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

He was so lost; I could feel it coming from him. His breathing, the sound of the heart beat I thought of as music now, and of course his inability to reply straight away. Embry Call always had an answer for everything! “Hey! Kinky. Nose licking!” Wiggling my nose as the cool  touch of our dessert tickled. But I didn’t stop him.

Licking my lips, the taste of him still lingered there while I sat still watching him, and taking him in. “Keeping all those thoughts as a surprise, are you?” Finally asking when he didn’t say. “I’m fine with it..”

•- Embry Call -•

I chuckled… “You aren’t the only one who can get kinky, Trouble.” I teased her, waggling my brows.

“I always have a surprise or two up my sleeve, you know that.” I grinned offering her another spoonful of ice cream. “But I suppose I can give you one hint…” I dipped my head  and ran tongue up the graceful column of her neck.

“It starts with licking you everywhere… not just your nose.” My voice dropped. “I will lick every single inch of you. And that just to start.”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Head falling back once I too the spoonful, letting him kiss my neck with the ice cream melting in my mouth. I was sure he could feel the heat rising up my skin, but I didn’t think too much about how treacherous my body became around him.

“Hmm…” opening my eyes looking up  at the ceiling of my kitchen. My hands graced its way down his arm until the hand with the spoon was felt.

Removing the spoon, I brought his finger still sticky with the ice cream he’d placed on my nose. I bought the finger up to my mouth. Kissing the fingertip, then licking  it with my tongue curling around it before u sucked hard pushing my lips around the length.

Slowly pulling back sucking harder with my tongue curling around the tip before I let it free with a tasting bite. “Licking is…. A good place to start…” I whispered back.

•- Embry Call -•

Spirits! I was addicted to the way her body reacted to me. I kissed the hollow place below her jaw and started to work my way back to her ear. When she slipped the spoon from my hand my full attention returned to her face... watching all those intentions pool in her eyes.

The kiss had me holding my breath. Her tongue had me hardening even more and pressing against her, so she knew it too. I bit my lip and groaned. the pressure of her mouth and the way her tongue swirled. I finally took a breath the only thing racing faster than my heart was my  mind.

"The best place to start!" I whispered, breathlessly.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Biting... high on the list too.” His breathless voice excited me.

I bite down in the tip of his finger before little it goes. Placing both my hands down flat on either side of myself on the counter top. Bracing myself with the jolts of electricity riding me like a wave. All of this caused by his reactions to what is been doing.

Slipping my arse to the edge of the counter again. Circling my hips to meet his thickness. Wondering and imagining all the things I’ve cream tasted good on top of.

Taking the spoon from where I’d place it, this time I held it out filled for him to enjoy the flavour of it too.

•- Embry Call -•

I made a low hum of approval. "Biting..." I repeated because I had apparently lost the ability to form an original thought.

Then she shifted the edge of the counter and pressed against me. I bit my lip, my eyes rolled back, and my hand tightened on her hip. Her body met mine  at the perfect angle.

"Being six-four has a lot of perks." I grinned at her. I leaned in and ran my tongue along the underside of the spoon before I ate the spoonful of ice cream.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Hmm…” this time I watched him consume the ice cream and it was hot and sexy, and…. Such a turn on! But why? I didn’t know the answer. It just was.

“Tall has its perks.” Agreeing. Because the way and the places our bodies met, it only happened because of the height  of him, the height of my cabinets and countertops. And the placement of me.

•- Embry Call -•

My eyes never left her face, I took in each and every reaction, sight sound and scent. I marked every detail. I leaned in and kissed her, while the taste of the ice-cream still lingered. I let my gaze drop to where our bodies met each other and the edge of the counter... I  her a wide smile.

"Oh, the things we do on these counters." I slipped the spoon from her fingers and scooped up more ice cream, holding it out to her.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Don’t give my counter tops a bad name.” Teasing back, leaning in my lips close around the cold delightful treat.

“It’s only witnessed kissing…” Winking back as I mirror his gaze. Taking him in, not missing a beat. Not removing my eyes off his face.

Whispering this time. “The couch has seen and heard a lot more.” The number of nights we spent on it bearing witness to the fact.

•- Embry Call -•

"For now." I flashed her a wicked grin. "These counters are going to see a whole more than kissing and my futile attempts at helping you cook."

My stomach leapt again watching her lips close around the spoon again. "Let's not forget the bed. The fact that thing is still standing is a miracle." I chuckled.

Another low-down twitch had me biting back a groan as I wondered if it would survive when we crossed that final line.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Well…”

My finger dipped into the tub, the cool soft texture making it easier to coat my finger. I had thought of covering his next line, down his Adam’s apple , towards his chest.

“You didn’t burn the toast the last time you offered to make breakfast.” Bringing my finger  to his lips. But then I dropped my gaze, seeing the bobbing of his Adam’s apple, and decided to bring my finger to my lips. Letting the tip of my tongue run over the length of one side. And then the other.

“My poor bed… I really do need to reinforce the fame.” The sounds it made; it was begging for some TLC.

•- Embry Call -•

My smile grew as she lifted her finger. “It’s not burnt if you can scrape on the black bits and sa…” every thought eddied out my head. I swallowed hard watching the slow swipe of her tongue. Fuck! It was like she moved in slow motion and that look in her eyes… Like she’d devour me next. Spirits!!

Beds?? What… why…? I chuckled. My grasp of the conversation slowly returned, and I loosened my grip on her hips… which had apparently tightened as I stared at her. Only with her could let myself act on instinct. Only her could I touch without thought and fear of causing harm.

“That may have to be my job, because I don't think you'll ever get my scent out of that mattress.” Damn! Did it make a domineering arsehole to like the sound of that? That my scent was there even when I wasn't?

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Head tilting the side my eyes glazed into his, but my thoughts went to the strong touch I missed all of a sudden.

By the Spirits… I hadn’t been worried about my strength or his. With all my honesty it was such a turn on when he grabbed me, when he put his full weight down over me. When his fingers dug into my skin. Being held by someone who I trusted to cause me no harm, but at the same time knowing he wouldn’t back down and could face me toe to toe.

Shaking the thoughts away, I pressed my thighs together, but he was in the way. The roiling up of my thoughts had my scent send its own message.

“Spirits!” Sucking my finger clean, raising my eyebrow. Did him like thinking about this? His face lit up. “You like it…. Your scent… in my things?” Did it feel to him as it had for me when he gave me his shirt?

•- Embry Call -•

My breath hitched and my mouth went dry as she sucked her finger clean. “Wouldn't a certain fictional friend of yours call me and Alphahole if I admitted to that?”

Her scent filled my senses, and I knew… I just knew it was that show of strength that stirred her arousal. Never enough to hurt. That wasn't something either of us had an interest in… but enough the woman of her considerable physical prowess could feel it. Enough for her feel my grip on her, that it was more than a touch… but enough that if she were human, it would leave a bruise at  least, maybe worse. But because this was Leah… I could just be Embry. I let go of the worry of causing harm. She wasn't fragile of breakable.

“I like it…” I admitted. “As much as you like it when...” I tightened my grip on her hips pulling her against me again, right the edge of the counter. I bit my lip when that sweet spot ground the hardness meeting her there. “… when you can feel it… really fell it when I touch you. When I can pin you… pick you… when you feel that pressure on your chest when you are under me… or between me and the wall.”

I leaned into her ear, dropping my voice. “When you can pin my wrists over my head a squeeze as hard you want. When you use those teeth and nails and all of these sexy, powerful muscles when they grind against…” I pulled to lock my gaze on hers. “That's how much I like thinking of you scenting me every time you climb into that bed.”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Oh…” a mischievous grin formed on my features. Because I’d read that book and made him do the same. And to my surprise what had been a joke turned into us having something more. “She would most definitely call you and Alphahole… and then she would swish her perfectly  formed curvaceous arse off to her room, and pleasure herself while thinking about it….”

My body slide forwards coming to a colliding stop against his muscular chest. My hands curled themselves around his neck, the flats of my palm on the back of his head playing with his hair. “Well….” My core came to life with a burst of energy tightening ever muscle in me. “That … took a turn…” as he would say to me so often.

The way his breath kissed the shell of my ear, the way his voice sounded. My breathing stopped and my heart pounded against  the cage of my ribs. The physical aspect was always such a turn on. But now. Here. Adding the face that he got it. He got me. He understood the assignment and by the spirits he was taking home the A++!

“I should want to kick your arse for admitting this… but instead… It makes me want to knock you flat on your back, pour what’s left in the tub all over, and lick you clean!” Drawing in close, adding a snap of my teeth right beside his earlobe.

•- Embry Call -•

“Oh really?” I grinned at the image in my mind. “Do Alphahole get to watch in the last scenario?” My balls tightened at the thought. Fuck! She claimed I turned the conversation around. I dragged my teeth against her earlobe and before I pulled back and she did the dame. I  groaned.

“Who am I to deny a beautiful woman?” I smirked. “Where do you want me? Table? Bed? Floor? All of the above?”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“That…. All… depends on…”

My arms dropped from around him, placing them either side of me I leant back. At the same time unhooking my ankles and bringing my long legs around to the front. They were  between us when I pushed him back and slipped down.

“I don’t know….” Teasing him and picking up the now half eaten tub of dessert and spoon. “I feel like I should leave you to your imagination for a while…” my eyes moved down him; his reaction visibly evident.

Filling a spoon, I put it in my mouth while starting to walk away.

•- Embry Call -•

I watched her, trying to tell myself I was prepared if was about to kick my arse... but as to back my focus drew in on the tempting peaks pressing against her shirt.

As she pushed me back, I let my hands trail off of her thigh. Then she was eyeing me up just as hungrily.

I didn't take my eyes off her. "Are you sure that's a good idea..." I bit my lip. Fuck! Her arse was perfect. "My imagination is vivid... it could get..." I paused. " Messy. If I'm left to my own devices with it in your house."

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Walking away from him was as easy as it once used to be. My warrior thought I was crazy; he missed his heat. Even when I reminded her, we had the same temperature. But it wasn’t the same, and by the spirits I knew it.

“Hmm…” sucking on the melting goodness in my mouth. “A good imagination is paid with vivid realities…. Or so I’m told.”

Placing the spoon into the tub, my free hand moved to the hem of my shirt, lifting it as i disappeared around the kitchen opening into the living room.

•- Embry Call -•

I had a brief moment of thinking that losing Leah's heat was the closest thing to cold I could ever feel. But that satisfied hum was I needed to heat my blood again.

I had to make an adjustment down south before following her to lean on the doorway, aware of the fact that adjusted or not my jeans did not hide her effect on me.

"Oh, trust me." I tapped my temple. "I have every second committed to memory, it's excellent fuel for my imagination... and that was doing pretty well even before I'd ever seen you naked."

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Narrowing my eyes, he didn’t mean what I thought he meant. He couldn’t have. Because if I’d have found out. His life would have been forfeit.

My shirt was up and over my shoulder, and head, hair cascading freely down my back as I adjusted my hands to set it down (tidily) on the armchair. Not looking back towards where I felt his presence.

“Before you even saw me naked what were you imagining exactly?” Now I set the tub down on the coffee table, undoing the belt and the buttons of my jeans. Pulling them down with a swing of my hips from side to side

•- Embry Call -•

Did the earth just stop spinning? Fuck! She was all muscle. Even her back flexed and rippled with strength as she pulled her shirt up… Who knew someone’s back could be a turn on? Enter Leah Clearwater.

I bit my lip, that dark cascade of silk down her back and over her Shoulders… yeah, I needed a little breathing room. I had to pop open my belt.

“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you.” I smirked. what her started on her belt… my heart raced and drifted up her gorgeous body and settle on her mouth for moment before locked onto those deep, dark eyes.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

When I glanced back over my shoulder, there he was. Lost in thoughts I knew the spirits would shy away from. But it made the thunder in my heart want to explode if I hadn’t kept control of myself.

Bending over, I freed one ankle from the leg of my jeans, and then moved on to  the other, as I spoke. “As we aren’t in the business of lying to each other. I’m going to disagree with you.”

Flipping my hair back, as I  stood up straight again. This time I shook my jeans, folding them, and setting them on top of my shirt. Turning around to fact him  in nothing more than my underwear.

“So….”

Licking the sticky remnants of the ice cream from my bottom lip. I pointed a finger to him, with the motion to come closer.

•- Embry Call -•

I was lost for words as I watched her. But always with her, every word she said sunk all the way in. My heart raced with hers... watching her fold her jeans shouldn't be a turn-on. But fuck! it was! Opening my belt was not enough... not even close.

Then the flick of her... Was at least four feet away and still made me groan.

I stepped forward when she beckoned, without question. Taking in the vision before me from my toes, all the way up, sweeping my gaze river each feature of her face and settled on her eyes.

I rested my hands on her waist and smiled at her. "I actually didn't picture you like this until after we... took each other right up to that ledge we like to toy with," I smirked. "But I won't lie... I imagined you in my t-shirt that night after we went climbing A LOT." I stressed the last part.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Alphahole…” the word came with a smirk of course. “Happiness is scenting yourself on me?” I knew it was more.

The day flashed before my eyes, climbing with him like I hadn’t before. Reaching the top, working together, learning from watching him. Seeing him doing something  he enjoyed. But it was sitting at the end, looking down over the horizon, the valley, and the river.

My heart gave one on those telltale signs of where my mind has gone. And I smiled shaking my head.

My hands gathered my hair up, twisting if around before tying it up into messy bun. All as I watched him taking me in, slowing moving towards me. And then there he was. And my heart gave me away again at the smile he openly shared with me.

I bought a finger up to his features, gently tracing the curves of his hairline, his cheek, his jaw.

•- Embry Call -•

"Something like that." I grinned, inching a little closer. I didn't need to explain it was the trust... and sure a little Alphahole satisfaction. But most of all is the utter acceptance in the action. That she'd had time to rationalise the feelings she was having and was choosing to spend the night in my bed.

I bit my lips watching her do that thing with her hair, and then I ducked my head to press a kiss to her now-exposed neck. The out-of-time thump made mine respond in kind. my eyes jumped back to her with a smirk that said I heard that.

Then her touch softened that smirk into a smile only she had ever seen. "What on Earth are you doing to me, Trouble?" My wide smile made it clear I loved every second of it.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“What you asked me to do, Dimples.” Voice soft and at ease. This felt real, and natural. Not forced on any level of the word. His warm lips on my skin had my skin ripping, and I knew he heard my heart speaking to him, just as I heard his.

“Do you want me to stop?”

Fingers trailing down slowly, taking in the well-defined position of each of his muscles. Even over the fabric of his shirt. Not rushing at all towards the goal to remove every inch of tension from those muscles I could feel moving beneath my fingertips.

When reaching the  hem of his shirt. My other hand moved so that I had a hold of both edges of the fabric. “So, now is the time to give consent, Embry Call. Do you trust me? Or… should I stop?” Moving my head back so that we were now eye to eye.

•- Embry Call -•

I was about to tell her that, no… no I most certainly did not want her to stop! But her hands started to move down my chest and my mind emptied out, mouth dry and teeth baring down on my lower lip. The intention in her eyes made my heart rachet up a gear.

Each muscle she  traced tightened and released.

Only when she stopped at the hem of my shirt did the faculties, I needed to speak return. “I trust you.” I had so much meaning behind it. Because I was a trusting guy. I didn't even lock my door for Spirit's sake. But this… Leah… it was different.

I trusted her with parts of myself I had only just discovered. My deepest regrets and shame. The little things I reserved just for me, like the piano, she held them all in her hands. And I felt no doubts or apprehension, no regrets.

In fact, I felt stronger for  it. I felt bolstered, held up by an extra pair of very strong hands. “Trusting you might just the best thing I've ever done.” I smiled.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Every bone in my body froze in its place, the beating of our hearts could be heard. But my mind took a moment to allow what he said to sink in. Trust…. It wasn’t only a question about what I had to answer for. But how I felt about allowing people in. It was a two-way street, a journey we both embraced.

Seeing his eyes, the way he bit his lips. I kissed him in answer. I wouldn’t take his trust lightly. “Trusting me is more importantly the most intelligent thing you’re done.” Teasing? Yes. But I had too.

Curling the fabric into my fingers, I began moving it up. Making sure the tips of my thumb travelled over his skin as I went.  “Hands up, Embry Call. You are seriously overdressed right now.”

•- Embry Call -•

I laughed a little. She teased, but I knew she understood how deep that trust went... and that understood hers too. She didn't take it lightly. "Yeah... I think we can both agree on that, too." I admitted with ease.

Never breaking from her stare, I lifted my arms... "Wow... Two agreements in a matter of minutes. We're on a roll, Trouble."

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Rolling my eyes at him with a smile on my lips. “Don’t get cocky… it may never happen again.” Raising my eyebrow into a perfect arch as I spoke.

Even now it sometimes seems unreal at how easy it felt to talk to him, to tease, and play. My hands moved up over his torso slowly. Breaking eye contact with him to view the fine specimen of a man the spirits created.

The scent in the room changed, and I pushed my thighs together to ease the throbbing sensation between them. Really, what was going on with me? Just taking his shirt off did this?

•- Embry Call -•

My tongue pressed into my lower lip, even her eyes tools were a turn on… and that was so dangerous. But I was addicted. A few stray strands of hair feel across my forehead when she freed my shirt. Somewhere between short and too long but not quiet either.

My hands moved to waist slowly slipped down, closer to the source of that scent that made me want to drop to my knees and… I bit down on my lip hard before the urge could take over. Of, course now it was my scent shifting… the pulsing of the blood in veins heating and flowing faster.

“Like what you see, Trouble?”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Yes. I. Do.” Unable to fold his shirt because of the way he held me now. I let the fabric fall on top of my clothes on the armchair beside us.

“As much as you are enjoying yours too.” I could read the room and the changed in it. Even if I hadn’t dropped my eyes, I knew what part of him would be there reaching out towards me.  My breathing hitched as the placement of his hands; I knew the through of him had a full pulse beginning between my legs.

Reaching up my fingertips traced his face. Pushing his hair off his forehead. “It’s letting long again.” I had said it to myself, but to him too. I like his hair, touching it, playing with it, because maybe I knew what it meant to be allowed to be this personal with a person now.

•- Embry Call -•

I chuckled I knew that she would want to fold that t-shirt, but I wasn't going to let go of her. "I would normally say that wasn't possible..." I leaned in and inhaled deeply. "But... I don't think I can this time."

Her finger brushed my against my cheeks and into my hair, and  as soon as my fingers against the hem of her panties at the same time... "Spirits." I felt it in my knees... again the urge to get close and worship her.

"Just wanted to give you something to hold onto." I teased and slipped my hands over her hips to her arse because there  too much temptation on the path they were following.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Are you admitting a weakness, Dimples?” Leaning in to place two soft kisses in each of them.

Teasing him and setting it into a challenge would be the normal routine for us, but my hands were tracing their way down his bare toes. Stopping to admire each chiselled muscle. “Spirits!” Calling them at the same time as he did when my fingers trailed the fine line of his adonis belt! That perfect V-shaped muscle,  running diagonally from his hip bones to his pelvic are.

“What were we talking about?” Feigning confusion because who the hell could think straight? It didn’t take much to find the clasp of his belt, undoing with a single tug. The sound of the metal breaking the silence

“Oh…right… The view we’re both enjoying.” His jeans were undone, my hands moved to feel his skin beneath the fabric as it began falling.

•- Embry Call -•

“If admitting the way, you smell right now is making me want to drop to my knees, put one of your legs over my shoulder and bury my face in between...” my mouth watered... “Is a weakness then… fuck yes!” No hesitation, no doubts. I was literally weak at the knees for her right now and wasn't terrifying it was thrilling.

I bit my lip when her fingers stroked lower, and she lost herself. I wasn't stupid I'd flipped through some of the books on her shelf and I had a few more muscles than most guys in them. I locked my gaze and hers and said, a little my skin heats beneath her touch.

“One hell of a view.”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

My warriors interest was peaking as she stirred wanting to know more. My breath caught at my impulse to move my hands lower, past the band of his boxers. And she wanted me to tell him to do what he wanted.

My heart felt like it was riding down to my stomach, and I lost my  voice as pure pleasure pluses making me close my thighs at the throbbing there. Pushing his jeans further to the ground, I guided him to step out of them. Picking them up to place them on top of all our clothes.

“You are really letting your mind run free.” It wasn’t the first time. “Who said I would let go taste this delicious delicacy without a few challenges?”

My eyes moved from his face over his bare, and perfect body, down to his toes. “Now… I promised to lay you down on the floor to lick ice cream off your skin.” Pointing to the floor

•- Embry Call -•

I smiled. “Good thing I'm not afraid of a challenge.” I felt the tiny shift, and even without looking away from her eyes I knew she was pressing those sex thighs together and fuck!! I wanted to be the cause of any friction she felt.

I bit my lip, feeling a low-down throbbing  at her words.

“Well, who am I to stand in the way of a promise.” I dipped my head and kissed her pulse point. Then I trailed painfully slow kisses down her neck. Her chest, nipping at her collarbone. Kiss g down the centre of her breasts, slowly easing to my knees. I would her what she wanted. But I would have fun along the ways.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

By the spirits! How had he managed to turn the tables on me? The world plan was to tease him, taste him, play with him! But here I stood with soft moan running free, my hands in his hair as he slowly turns my on like a lighter ignition.

“Embry….” My eyes widened as he went to his knees before me. This action took my mind away by shocking it. It wasn’t something I could say I wanted, but I didn’t know if he knew the meaning of it to me.

To go down on my knees… I’d told the world I would do that for any man. Even my Alpha knew, not that he would abuse his power and position like that. Her voice whispered ‘This isn’t the same thing. This is trust. It’s openness, and willingness to accept.’

•- Embry Call -•

I was already struggling with my urges to slide her panties down as my knees touched the floor... her breathing my name like that almost undid me. My teeth grasped the elastic and tugged a little and just before I pulled back I squeezed her arse and slid my hands to her knees, just a little press against the back of the drop her into my lap. I didn't reach up to keep her from toppling backwards, she could keep herself centred easily.

I shifted my legs out from under me, the motion causing delicious friction right where we both wanted it now that she was straddling my lap.

"I'm at your mercy, Trouble." I smiled at her, heart racing with anticipation. Sat on the floor now, just where she'd wanted me... almost. But just like catching herself... she could fix that too.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Let’s not pretend this isn’t exactly where you wanted to be.” He’d brought us both down and I didn’t fight him. My hands moved to cup his face with our bodies shifting to settle on the floor of my living room.

Bringing myself down to kiss his lips, slow, soft, and teasing  while tasting him all at once. Where our bodies joined, jolts of lightening zipped making my pulse quicken.

I moved the weight of myself into him now, holding the back of his head my tongue entwined with him as I took him down to lay flat with me hovering over him.

“Now. What were you saying about mercy?”  Teasing bites over his lips. Without looking, my hand reached out for the tub of soft semi melted ice cream.

•- Embry Call -•

I moaned into her kiss, she moved with me every moment. We had learned to read the silent language of each other's body.

My stomach rioted, my heart raced, my breath was still rapid. Our tongues met and danced, even as the corners of my mouth curled up when she cradled the back of my head. For someone who frequently hid her tenderness... she certainly didn't inside our bubble. "Mercy?" I asked, confused for a second until I could think clearly enough to remember what I said only a moment ago.

"Oh... about showing me none?" I teased biting my  bottom lip.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

I couldn’t help but laugh into the night. Only one lamp lite the room, with shadows dancing over his face as I drew up to sit over him. The tub sitting on the floor beside him. I pulled my hair up into my signature bun all the while watching him. My long torso stretching out, and I Tutt my tongue.

“We’ll see how you feel about that.” Teasing right back.

My hands slipping down from my hair, slow and gentle I felt the heat of my skin rising, and I felt him tightening under me. Picking up only the spoon, I licked the back of it. Keeping my eyes locked onto his. The next dip of the spoon, I held it over his chest. Listening to him, enjoying the moments where his reactions come.

“Now try to stay still. I don’t want ice cream melting on my floor.” Trails of the sweet goodness dripped over his nipples one at a time.

•- Embry Call -•

I bit my lip hard; she was doing that thing with her hair again. Fuck!! it was sexy as hell. “Still feeling pretty good about it.” I said, as she licked the back of the spoon, making me twitch, thinking of all the things that tongue could do.

I chuckled… she asked me not to move like it was just that easy.

I melted ice wasn’t as cold… but still enough for a jolt of pleasure. “You know still isn't my stronger suit, right?” slide my hands over hips and along her thighs. My body already aching for what came next.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

My placement straddling him, made it so I felt his twitch making me push down and rotate my hips for the friction.

“If it was easy on you… was the fun?”

His hands moved over my hot skin, sending bolts of excitement through me. The spoon dropped a line of ice cream Down the middle of his torso before I set it back inside the tub.

“Let’s see how far you can make it?” Shifting the way, I sat over him. Leaning down my tongue started to lick teasingly up the middle of his torso, letting small bite mark as I cleaned up the mess, I came over him.

•- Embry Call -•

I bit my lip hard to try (and fail) to stifle a moan at the way she wriggled her hips. "You really aren't going to make this easy, are you?"

I hardly finished the sentence before she lowered herself and... "Fuck!" I breathed and dug my fingers into her toned thighs. The trickle  of melted ice cream down the side of my ribs told me I wasn't staying as still as I thought I was.

Why was this so fucking how? Okay sure, she was running her tongue all over me... Clearly sexy... But no, the biggest turn-on was the fact she was licking ice-cream off of me. "Is there a prize if I make it all the way?" I panted between breaths. Like I needed on... I looked down watching her make her way up my torso... I was winning already.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“A prize?” Asking as I chased the free running trails down his ribs. Biting when I missed the drops falling on the ground next to him.

“You’re not staying putt, Dimples. So I don’t know if a prize should be offered.” Licking with the tip of my tongue in the circle my  left a reddish mark on his flesh.

Sitting back up I took another spoonful. “But I’m all for giving second chances. So, let’s see if you win this time.” Drops falling around his chest this time, concentrating at not letting anything fall or run down his sides.

When I set the spoon down, I could help but smile. Seeing him lying there, all that power in his body, and he was concentrating on being still. This time when I went down my tongue traced his nipples one at a time. Tasting the delicious sweet with a mixture of him too.

•- Embry Call -•

She and I both knew that was as still as I got… but the was without the sexiest woman I had ever met straddling my arousal and sweet, perfect heat… my hips moved on their own again.

Okay, maybe not on their own… but fuck!! Who wouldn't? I grow at the bite, fingers pressing into her thighs, leaving a mark of my own.

There was a look of concentration on her face that made me grin through the jaw-clenching sensations skittering from every place I felt that cool touch. “Over achiever much?” I teased, gasping the last word when her tongue circled my nipple.

I only realised I had arched my back when it touched the floor again. “Fuck!” I moaned through my bitten lip.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

The sweet pinch of his fingers into my skin let me know how much this was worth the time. I should have started this earlier for sure!

He drew a moan free from me too, my scent filled the air around us telling him my secrets. That hungry heat was trying to break my concentration, But I wasn’t done.

“Tutt Tutt Embry Call. You just lost your prize.” My eyes moved to take him in. His chest came up to meet me before settling on the floor again.

“And I was willing to let you pick your prize too.”

More ice cream in the spoon, but this time I shifted down him, letting droplets made a path down to his navel. And over the small scar where his appendix once lived.

•- Embry Call -•

Fuck!! That sound... I felt it travel me, throbbing and pulsing where her body met mine. "I thought I wasn't getting one?" I panted out the words.

I groaned... a prize of my choosing... My mind couldn't fathom the answer while trailed the cold droplets to the scar low down on my stomach.

"My choice?" I breathed. sliding my hands firmly up her thighs to her hips. "That's brave." I teased.

We both knew it had nothing to do with bravery, it was all trust.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Shh…” setting the spoon to the side again. This time I took a hold of his hands. “These are distracting me from my fun.” The sharp sting from his hold was going to leave a mark, but I knew it would be gone before I could see them.

“Think about it… see how far your mind can travel.” Tilting my head to the side. I moved to hover over him. Moving myself down to sit over his thighs between my legs now.  My tongue working in long slow motion to lick him clean this time.

•- Embry Call -•

I bit my lip, twisting my hands, and lacing my fingers with hers. She moved lower… every muscle in my torso tightened in anticipation. But as soon as I thought to gather my self-control with the loss of friction… her tongue was on my skin.

“Spirits!” I sucked in a breath, trying to keep my upper body still. “Can't expect a man to think straight while you do that.”

I squeezed her hands. Fuck!! I wanted to touch her.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Squeezing his hand right back, my lips curled up into a mischievous smile. I didn’t reply to him right away way, because I found myself following the lines of his muscles now and not the ice cream.

There was the taste of Embry, with drops of the sweet treat. His heat, with the melting dessert.

“It wouldn’t be a challenge if it was easy, Dimples.” Biting his hip my eyes moved to glance up at him.

My mouth moved to follow the pool of cream along the groove of his boxer elastic. Biting the fabric with my teeth as the scent of him filled my senses.

•- Embry Call -•

Fuck! That sexy little smirk...  She was so hot it should be illegal. I watched her move down my body, every swirl and flick of her tongue sending electricity over my skin. I still struggled to keep still.

“You do like to challenge me.” I breathed. Never taking my eyes off her. “Spirits!” I bit my lip and pressed my hips against floor hard… anything the keep for arching right off the flow or.

“Fuck, Trouble.” Everything was tight throbbing, begging for friction. “Guess I'm not only one that likes what they see.” I teased her, panting. Longing  kiss those perfect lips… no wanting her to stop her slow, teasing trail either.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

Think we were past my hiding the things he knew. The scent in the air, the way my body reacted to his, the ripped skin around my nipples hiding, but the fact that they were erect pushing the light fabric of my bra, was not.

Seeing him fighting the urge his body feed him shouldn’t turn me on so much. But here we were.

“I’m not denying it. At least not right now.” Making a point to flick my tongue over his skin and closing my eyes. The moan wasn’t planned. But the sound of it was intoxicating to me!

I squeezed his hands before freeing one. “Think I need some more ice cream.” Reaching for the spoon.

•- Embry Call -•

Her scent deepened and I wished I was the one with my lips pressed low against me abdomen. Muscles tightened and the seam along the front rubbed again a sensitive spot when she made that bloody delicious sound.

I glanced down her body when she lifted up to reach for the spoon giving me a perfect of the straining fabric covering her breasts.

My newly freed hand lifted to brush against her hair, careful not to loosen it from the artful twist shd fashioned it into. Although letting it fall free could mean if obligated to take her to the shower to the sticky mess from the dark locks.

A slightly evil smirk spread across my features.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

“Nothing good could be cooking in that mind of yours.” I saw that look. The one which came over him just before he did something I would want to kill him for.

Even if the last few times, it had ended with us entangled naked never making it to my bed. The spoon full again  I brought it down to his navel. Trailing a line from there down. Glancing up towards him when I felt his hand over my hair. It made the muscles in my stomach clench and then twitch.

“Embry!” His name came out in another soft moan, with the release of control I kept over myself.  This time let it drip freely bending down to catch them with the tip of my tongue.

•- Embry Call -•

There was just as hunger in her eyes. The way my body reacted to her gave her physical pleasure, not just the satisfaction of knowing she the cause of my pleasure. It was deeper than that for us.

“I supposed that depends on your definition of good.” I grinned, still shivering with bliss and sensation. I stopped my mind calling up the images of her soaking wet, skin gleaming, hair slicked my abs dripping water, tiny drops in those long lashes. Well, I tried to…

“So, fucking beautiful…” The words were out before the ice cream touched her skilful  tongue.

•- Leah Clearwater -•

His words stopped me in my tracks. I freed the hand he’d been holding, to sit up a little. Raising my eyebrow in a perfect arch smirking down at him, the evidence of his presence palpable.

“Is the same definition as you have. And you know exactly what I mean.” Or what he meant   siting up over his thighs, I held the dripping spoon over his midriff.

With my eyes taking in the man underneath me, I knew there was so much more to this thing with him. He wasn’t just any guy. He wasn’t meat. It was Embry. By the spirits! It was Embry Frank Call! My fingers curled into the hem of his boxers. Tugging them to show off the muscles hiding under the fabric. But I didn’t expose him. The dip of his skin now covered in the sweet wet cream.

•- Embry Call -•

I grinned. Looking from her to me and the sticky mess. “I was thinking about who sad it be…” The cool ice cream rolling between the grooves of my muscles made me groan just thinking about her lapping it up with her talented mouth.

“If this beautiful hair got tangled up in this mess.”

A small gasp escaped; I knew how far she would go. I saw her desire and how it was for all of me, nothing was hidden in those amazing eyes. “I would have to take you to the shower and make sure every last strand was cleaned.”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

My ears were taking him in, listening, smirking and I couldn’t help but dig my nails into the sides of his thighs.

This time my lips did the trick, kissing and sucking up the sweet substance off of him. Small, soft, hard, then teasing kisses. Leave small “O” marks wherever lifted from.

Finally, when I was satisfied there wouldn’t be any mess my eyes could move to meet his.

“There is a bridge we have crossed.” My hair, the shower, the trust to know we had our control intact. And my hair… I hadn’t had another person do something so intimate.

•- Embry Call -•

I closed my eyes, dropping my head back to the floor again. Just writhing beneath her with each kiss and suck, knowing skin was showing proof of her trail. Nails and lips and tongues, everything felt so, so good.

“We have worlds and worlds of firsts still open to us, Trouble.”  I whispered.

Remembering that only once had we crossed into complete nakedness together… holding her until the sun came up with nothing beneath her and mine had been one of those firsts. “Because we wrote our own timeline.”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

We had done it. Written our own rule books, set our own guidelines and standards, and most of all we ensured they worked for the two of us. It wasn’t written in stone, it was fluid like the oceans, the air, the stars, and the spirits who protected us. But most of all. It was ours.

“When did you find the ability to think.” Biting the skin over his hip bone. “I thought you didn’t have it to multi task.” A line of kisses went down the low edge of the fabric of his boxers, and my tongue traced a line all the way to the other side too.

•- Embry Call -•

A light chuckle was cut off by a moan that had me straining to keep my hips on the floor. “I’m evolving.” I managed to get out, both hands reaching for her. Teaching the curve of her shoulders and onto her back and the back of her neck.

The need to touch her was intense. I  still picturing her under a stream of warm water, my hands running over all her sensitive parts. “Fuck!” I throbbed… her kisses dragging me back again to this moment only. “Trying to kill me, Trouble.”

•- Leah Clearwater -•

His reaction visible right away, pushing up against his boxers, and into the curve below my neck. Insensible I knew it. But a flash of the first time I saw him in his full glory came rushing in.

“Hmm…” telling myself to behave! “Evolution is teaching you and me so much. More than we could have imagined.”

Where his hands touched, my skin prickled with pleasure. Slowly I began my descent to his thighs. Bypassing the place I knew I couldn’t tease, even it was bulging out asking for a touch.

Stopping, I smiled. Grazing my chin over the length from the base all the way down towards the tip. Pushing my warriors limits to leave me and him to enjoy this time.

TBC....

#twirp #twilightrp #leahclearwater #hotheadshewolf #spiritshothead #auworld #twilight #embrycall #badboyembrycall

[amirrorneverlies]

No Man Left Behind  - A story told with Jacob Black - Part 2

※ Jacob ※

I laughed at her comment and pointed to the chopped bacon. “I mean I do have meat there.” I laughed at the small portion, just enough to add that Smokey flavour. I put a deep skillet on the stove and heated just a little olive oil. I glanced over my shoulder waiting for a comment from the two carnivores across the hall… but they both exploded at the TV and #Charlie grumbled something about the ref needing to turn in his whistle. I just flashed Bella a grin. “They are finally distracted.” I laughed. “I think this is what new parents feel like when they finally get a screaming baby to sleep.”

I put the bacon into the sizzling pan and added in the diced streaky bacon. “All the recipes on YouTube say to add pancetta for flavour… but that's expensive… so, I thought. It's basically bacon… right?” I shrugged. “So, I tried it. And it worked.” When the bacon was browned, I added the carrots and celery and kept stirring it.

※ Bella ※

“Oh…” The brown eyes followed to where Jacob pointed. “Okay... so... I missed the pink meat sat there too.” Tucking a stand of loose hair behind my ear.

“Charlie is always telling me how I need to become better aware of my surroundings. I think he has a point.” I knew he didn’t mean not seeing things in front of me in the kitchen. I wasn’t going to allow myself to dive into the depths of why my dad said it. However, right now. I understood.

Half smiling at the parenting comment. “Sure, you and me. The bad parents who are leaving their two children in front of the TV for entertainment whirl making dinner. What would Jean Piaget say!” Glancing over slowly towards the dads, so not to draw their attention away from the game. “Okay fine. Now… I know I’m not a helicopter mom. That’s something, right?”

When I moved my attention back to Jacob the first thing I thought was, ‘Wow he really knows what he is doing.’ Then seeing how he wasn’t that different to me in some ways. It was hitting home again why we had become friends.

“It’s the same thing. They add a flash name to it, and they can charge more money for it.” Not hundred percent true, there were differences but also not a lie. “If you want it smokier, you know you can start the bacon off in a dry skillet.

Once it picks up some colour, then add a little oil.” Tapping the side of my nose. “Another YouTube tricks.”

※ Jacob ※

I shook my head a little. “That's always good advice… but not here Bells. You’ll always be safe here… it’s okay if nowhere really feels safe right now.” I am getting dangerously close to that line of mentioning that night she was lost in the woods. “But just remember… you’re  safe here and with #Charlie.”

Then I quickly changed the subject. “I might have some crayon somewhere from babysitting my cousins.” I laughed. “Is that better?”

I grinned and Bella. “See I knew there was a scam there!” I chuckled. “For the sake of a few bucks, all it takes is a few minutes of chopping.” I listened to her and nodded, still stirring what was in the pan, adding the onions, and I minced the garlic into the pan.

“Oh really? Good tip! I will totally try that next time. You can come and taste the difference.” I was not thinking about how cute the nose-tapping thing she I did was as held up the bottle of red pepper flakes… “How much heat can you handle Swan?” I grinned. Handing her the bottle, there might have been a little challenge in my tone.

※ Bella ※

Dangerous…. His kindness and the meaning I found in those sweet, shared words had me in a path towards a dangerous future if I didn’t veer away from it now. Blinking my eyes, a circular motion of the neck, a gentle count to ten, with some easy breathing and I laughed softly, trying to hide the internal turmoil. Because this was #Billy and Jacob’s home. A happy place to visit, where no bad memories lived.

Not finding the courage within myself to reply to his words which felt like a sting and a warming balm all at once. “Crayons? Yeah. Hundred percent better. We could bring out their autistic side?” My voice bitching up into a question.

Half smiling, I nudged Jacob in his arm with my elbow. Shaking my head at his conspiracy theory over bacon and pancetta. “Oh, so now I’m your tasting guinea pig, as well as  the fact that you are attempting to challenge me with heat?”

Tutting at him taking the small round bottle of red pepper flakes from his hands. Tilting my head to the side when I noticed how small the bottle appeared in his hand. “You know I’m an Arizona girl. We love our spice and heat. And you still challenge me, Black!” Twisting the lid off I began to tap the flacks out into his pan, while keeping my eyes on him.

“I hear the tone you’re using Jacob Black. Not cool.”

※ Jacob ※

Hell… this girl was so lost… it only happened for flashes, then she found her way back. But those flashes? They broke my heart a little every time. I laughed as Bella fearlessly tapped the pepper flakes into the pot as I stirred them in. Maybe if I let her have those moments and choose when she wanted to delve deeper into them… she’d realise I was here to listen.

Once she reached about the amount I would use; I held up my free hand in surrender. “Okay, okay… much respect. But let’s not overdo it.” I chuckled. I leaned closer and  whispered “#Charlie can’t handle the heat as well as he thinks. Why do you think he always orders steak?” I smiled.

I laughed again. “Nothing wrong with a little friendly competition between friends! Especially in the kitchen. Plus, you have chocolate on your side! I need a  little heat.”

※ Bella ※

I felt as though I hid my far away thoughts and emotions from those close to me. Keeping them away from the draining of my little happiness I’d begun to experience once again. So, they could see only the glimmers of hope I wanted them all to believe I grew within.

“Oh, thank God! You had me worried I needed to go out and grab something else for him.” Okay for me to play chicken with my new close friend, however my dad wouldn’t thank us if he suffered a bad tummy all night.

Nudging Jacob in the side while setting the pepper down. “Maybe next time we made sure we take Charlie’s position out before we go wild?”

At the mention of chocolate, I turned to pick the tray of uncooked brownies up and once again nudged him to the side to place them in the oven. “You know in Mexico they love adding some chilli into their chocolate, it enhances the flavour. Or so I read.”

Now wanting to try some, one day.

※ Jacob ※

I laughed and shook my head. “If I’d known how competitive you were I would have chosen my words more carefully.” I teased. I stirred the pot, the fragrance from it multiplying now with added flavour. I added in the last of the ingredients.

“Really? And here I was thinking that Salted Caramel and chocolate was a breakthrough.” I laughed. “Maybe the next time we will make a batch just for us… save the old timers some heartburn.”

I covered the pot and let the food simmer and the vegetables reduced down into a sauce. “I’ll be more help next time  now that I’ve seen it done before. I honestly never really looked into learning to bake because none of it seemed suitable for Dad… but you managed to find a way around it, you can give me some tips.” I smiled and checked the pasta.

※ Bella ※

“Whomever found the combination of Salt and Caramel was a genius! The sweet and salty really does enhance the taste buds in an intriguing way.”

Left with nothing to do, instead of watching Jacob all attention turned toward the dinner table. Taking the time to clear the things which had been set upon it out of the way. (However, still within the eye-line of #Billy and Jacob). I began to set the table for four.

“I think it was a French chef, it had to be. The French come up with the best dessert ideas.” It took a couple of attempts to find the plates, and then the glasses.

“I wouldn’t say I’m an avid baker. But who doesn’t like watching a good baking show when you aren’t in the mood for anything else?” Nodding my head towards the dads. “I know Charlie hasn’t got the  health issues like Billy yet…” emphasising the last word.

“However, I worry if he doesn’t change his habits. He could end up with some. Which is why I try to have him eating better…. And… Which is why I took over the kitchen duties.” A glance back to the dads to make sure they weren’t eavesdropping.

“Next time we can make red velvet cake, with beetroot. Charlie doesn’t know how good that cake is for him when he is scoffing down two slices with sour cream frosting.” Winking in a conspiring manner.

※ Jacob ※

“Agreed!” I laughed. “Let’s hope the chilli and chocolate people are geniuses too… Genius-ies… Genuises?” I tried to figure it out. “Genius-i…. Whatever the plural is.”

I added tomato paste to the pot and turned to her, wide-eyed. “Oh please, don’t tell me you watch that British baking show? Rebecca watched that things like it was a religious service.”

I listened to her talking about the worry for her dad’s health, it was something I could understand, I knew that in different circumstances my dad could still be walking. I didn’t blame him for not looking after himself better after Mom died. But I knew it was something that could have been avoided if he hadn’t had his world shattered.

“I understand that, even without family histories it's something to worry about. And I know it’s Forks, but his job still has its dangers, I know you worry. And that’s a good compromise, right?” I chuckled.

“Healthy cake but you still get a little frosting?” I kept my voice low enough not to carry over the sound of the TV. I couldn’t give away Bella’s secret.

※ Bella ※

A small chuckle leaving my lips, nudging myself on my toes and then back down again. “It’s geniuses... you had it right brains.” Shaking my head because he reminded me a little on my mom, she always questioned words and then went ahead and made her own up.

The look of shock covering my features, with a hand placed on my chest. I wouldn’t attempt a British accent because I knew I’d murder it.

“Do not judge me, or your sister. We have great taste, okay.” Feeling a blush creeping up my face. “Also, sometimes we all need something which is good for the soul. Watching something which is about people like me creating things I couldn’t imagine doing… it’s…. Well… nice.”

Smiling while i watch him as he cooked, hoping to learn something new as I did when watching Sue, from time to time. “I know you would understand. I tried to explain it to my friends at school. And they were… well… they didn’t get it.”

※ Jacob ※

I grinned at her. “I know…. It was a test. You passed.” I laughed, that was the goal really; to make her laugh or smile. I had succeeded at it a lot today, but it wasn’t going to make her feel better forever. But at least it relieved her burden for a few moments.

I chuckled, covering the pot now to let the sauce reduce. “I’m teasing… my weakness is those endurance contests, like American Ninja and the mud runs or spartan contests. Not that I really watch a lot of TV. But when I do I have a guilty pleasure too.”

I leaned against the counter. “I  learned a long time ago that you can’t blame people for that. Most are used to their parents always looking after them, they can’t imagine a world where it's reversed. Not until they see it. Like #Quil… he worries after his mom since my dad got sick… but #Embry was right  there too, and he can't fathom a world where his mother isn’t invincible. I swear that woman has never even had a cold.” I grimaced a little at the mention of #Embry. Did he still think that now? Or was that changed too?

※ Bella ※

The shift came so abruptly, just a small trickle of sadness in his shoulders when mentioning his best friends.

There were so many reasons to lose we I’d found out the hard way myself, that tonight I didn’t want him feeling guilty about anything else. And some part of me, should kick myself at taking this whole conversation back around to a place of deep thought and maybe some regrets when it came to #Embry. Even if I hadn’t meant too.

“I’m sorry... did you say American Ninja, and mud runs, and spartan contests? What in the world are those?” Emphasising each word to draw him out from the emotional state I knew looming over his head. “I feel like you are making it up.”

Pushing myself off to bend my knees. Looking into the oven at the state of the brownies baking. The scent of the chocolate hadn’t changed so I knew we still had a few minutes to go.

※ Jacob ※

I was grateful that she jumped right onto the topic of my silly TV shows. She was doing for me that I had done for her. I scooped up a spaghetti noodle and tasted it. “Perfection.” I grinned.

“Oh no, they are very real. It’s like endurance contests and races, they do obstacle courses like the ones people do for army training and stuff… it’s a race, a strength challenge, and a mental test all at once. I’ll show you sometime if you want. I’ll even watch your baking show with you and not complain.” I chuckled and set the big colander in the sink and  turned off the burner with the spaghetti on it.

‘Getting hungry in here, kids!’ Dad called from the living room.

“Five minutes!” I called in. “Go wash up,” I smirked at Bella. “And they say teenagers are impatient.”

※ Bella ※

“Yes! I’m in!” In need for something more to do. Now that #Charlie’s shed was done, a gap had opened up for a new hobby. “If I’m not muscling into your time alone?”

“And you know you are always welcome to join in on the bake off. As long as know we will be baking afterwards too.” Thinking about the times we could have.

“Well maybe only on weekends. You need to prioritise your homework and studies. I can’t have the oldies saying I’m a bad influence. I’m meant to make sure things are don’t right.”

#Billy pulled on my attention, making me smile again. Turning to glance back over my shoulder when I stood towards where our dads grumbled something before getting themselves up.

Lowering my voice, “Whomever said that didn’t know these two.” Lifting my chin back now.

‘It all smells really good here guys.’ #Charlie went to the kitchen sink while #Billy disappeared into the bathroom.

“Jake here is a talented chef.” Going to the cupboard for some glasses and a jug.

To Be Continued....

#twilightrp #stories #twlight #auworld #bellaswan #jacobblack #twirp

[km-davidson]

I posted 649 times in 2022

3 posts created (0%)

646 posts reblogged (100%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@kaden-kingsman

@deanwinchesters

I tagged 636 of my posts in 2022

Only 2% of my posts had no tags

#au - 636 posts

#fb - 300 posts

#fd - 185 posts

#duel57 - 64 posts

#proposal - 9 posts

#kyle - 1 post

#chat - 1 post

#c: kyle - 1 post

#kyle073 - 1 post

#auworld - 1 post

Longest Tag: 8 characters

#proposal

My Top Posts in 2022:

#3

“The percentages are high enough that our stake would sell three times its worth...” Kyle listened to his board members argue over things they had no control over. It was always the same. Always discussing his company as if it weren’t his company. “And the point in selling?” he droned, reaching down for his cuff link to reposition it to be even more perfect. He looked up at the monitors with people who’d joined in via video call. Kaden was in the middle, an easy target for his attention, but he didn’t focus on solely her. Instead, his eyes fell upon the door. A frown was present, his gaze falling on the phone closest to him right before it rang. Lines pulled even deeper, aging him twenty years before he put it down and held up a finger. “Out. Everyone out. Kaden, I need Rebecca to join now.”

Were they serious? Nothing like this had happened in years. No amount of disrespect. Yes, fleas who thought they were capable of putting a dent in him, but to actually disrespect custom? He looked up at the monitor, to the center. His teeth grit before he stood; hands planted on the table. “Jeremy Harris and Hannah Rowe are here.” Kyle took a deep breath to calm his rage. It did nothing. How despicable. How outrageous. Did they lack normal brain functions? Was this scum even a wolf? “I swear, I am going to kill them here and now, Kaden. I swear.”

@kaden-kingsman

124 notes - Posted January 5, 2022

#2

There was a thick sludge in his veins. Branching out to every nerve and choking them. Blood sat heavily on his tongue making the sensation even worse. He needed more. The suffering that twisted and mangled his victim, he needed more of it. How his ribs felt against his claws, when he thinned them out to the point of breaking them. The bones shattering as he made it to the muscles, tearing away at their intricate fibres until he punctured him and the air seeped out. Kyle shook, his body roaring into the rage-induced coma he was in. He didn’t know where he stood, only that it wasn’t where he could get more. There was magic there with him. A hollow abyss that called to him to spread its gospel. Allow this powerful hatred to take over and reign supreme over all. It felt so good... So, so good.

@kaden-kingsman

125 notes - Posted January 7, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

The overwhelming scent of salt bombarded his system as he opened up the door that led out of the office. Vacation would ensue, but for two hours in the morning, and two in the late afternoon, vacation ceased. After the exposure of three CEOs laundering his profit, he couldn’t have that happen again. Even if he’d promised Kaden he’d do his best to be as present as he could be – hence limiting his meetings to a total of four hours. “I smell pork,” he walked to where she was, weaving his body around her’s. The glow of her skin had darkened from the Bora Bora sun. Kyle caught sight of her bikini, eyebrows declaring his interest for him. “I like this one.” @kaden-kingsman​

279 notes - Posted March 28, 2022

Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →

#tumblr2022 #year in review #my 2022 tumblr year in review #your tumblr year in review

[xixujicoheg]

Tourisme d'affaires pdf

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[missannablacklol]

ʜᴇ ʀᴇᴍᴇᴍʙᴇʀs ᴇᴠᴇʀʏᴛʜɪɴɢ. . . ♡[ #hp #tommarvoloriddle #tomriddle #tomhughes #thegame #christiancoulson #harrypotter #harryjamespotter #denielredkliff #tomarry #harrymort #voldemort #griffindor #hogwarts #slytherin #auworld #edit #edits #harrypotteredit #tomarryedit #remember ]♡ https://www.instagram.com/p/B-VGv9Wlnlf/?igshid=c9w5pgbswvo3

#hp #tommarvoloriddle #tomriddle #tomhughes #thegame #christiancoulson #harrypotter #harryjamespotter #denielredkliff #tomarry #harrymort #voldemort #griffindor #hogwarts #slytherin #auworld #edit #edits #harrypotteredit #tomarryedit #remember

[aganstlv-blog]

An agnst love/bittersweet story between Eunbi (sinb)  and yerin. Hwang Eunbi, a normal teenager on the outside yet a troubled psychopath in the making on the inside. Going through hell in earth will she be able to know any other than missery, pain and loneliness?  http://www.asianfanfics.com/story/view/1243121

#auworld #fanfic #kpopfanfictrash #sinrin #taengsic #btsjungkook

[millionsbyname]

I could quote this whole episode, the beginning is classic, Cal is such a cheeky little sod to Dylan it’s hilarious. Ethan is seriously embarrassed by his big brother. Cal snoring at Ethan when he answers the question and is all teachers pet and basically eye rolling Lily and Ethan and being generally totally unhelpful and a brat to Dylan.

4.58 -

Dylan: I thought you had a patient that arrested.

Cal: he died. I forgot to give you my holiday request form.

Dylan: Am I allowed to fire people?

Cal: Nooooo

Hahahah love the way he delivers that.

#hardyknightbroments #ethan hardy #cal knight #bbc casualty #casualty #cal isnt dead here #stabbingwhatstabbing #auworld #itshappyhere

[impala-dreamer]

“Challenge” Time!! (Since you are done with NaNoWriMo 👏🏻) what are the next top 5 wips you want to work on? ideas and already started included. and since I used the word challenge... now you gotta tag some peeps who you want to know what their wip list looks like!! PS you can ignore if this is dumb, I just felt it be a bit of fun! :D

Hmm I like this game! Ok... Stuff I wanna work on soon...

A Ketch x Reader in AUWorld hate sex quickie...

RedVines (lemondrop p3)

A fringe kinky Dean x Reader - 'Batteries Not Included'

Jensen x Reader Smangst 'What if you don't love me?'

A whole lotta Wincest.

Whatchoo writing?

@kittenofdoomage @crashdevlin @dontshootmespence @manawhaat @negans-lucille-tblr @ viewers like you!

#wip game

[dismothie]

omg :O I asked for the AU Wild Wild Pussy Cats coming for a visit and BulldogVald king vs Dabi one. I was not expecting you would like the ideas let alone draw something *tearsofhappiness* i dont have a tumblr so posting anon but have been inspired by your AUworld and drew some myself I hope you dont mind! yammyqueen

Hahaha both were yours?? they were so fun to draw and so pure! And of course, by all means, have fun with it! :)

#one fur all #Anonymous

[andrew-kingsman-blog]

“I don’t have much time, so tell me what you want instead of going round in circles.”

#elysstarter #elysevent #e: auworld

[blazingtheway]

Letting Off Some Steam – Leah Solo

ʟᴇᴛᴛɪɴɢ ᴏꜰꜰ ꜱᴏᴍᴇ ꜱᴛᴇᴀᴍ!

             ╚ ꜱᴏʟᴏ

                ╚ ɪɴᴄʟᴜᴅɪɴɢ:  #ᴇʟɪᴢᴀʙᴇᴛʜᴄʟᴇᴀʀᴡᴀᴛᴇʀ

Sometimes you’re pushed so far that you need to find an outlet to let go. In the past times like this would have resulted in me climbing in the back of my baby and hitting the road hard to Seattle. But my promise to close off that avenue meant this wasn’t good enough of a reason to end up there.

‘Leah, do you mind locking up for me? I don’t want to rush you out mid work out.’ Waving my gloved hand over with a grunt meant #Mac’s uncle could go home, and I could keep pounding the skin.

Pushing the tip of my earbuds to turn up the volume needing to immerse myself into the beat of the song.

(Music: Seven Nation Army - Stevie Howie)

With my eyes focused on the skin, I couldn’t help but see the face of the townie man so clearly, each curve of his features etched into my memory that I could point him out in a crowd of a million just like him.

This man who had attempted unsuccessfully to cast a black mark  on the sacred space of the #HwH enraged me beyond belief.

My warrior had suggested this work out, she knew that nothing good would come of me pushing these feeling down, that they would boil up like a volcano. Except when I erupted no-one in a hundred miles radius would   be safe.

My hands lifted up to partly cover my chin, protecting my nose. My legs apart, feet planted, and knees bent before I began with a two, one, two combos. Each hit rang an echo in the empty gym which I could hear even with my music playing loud.  The only thoughts replaying in my mind, where the words of the girl after I had driven her to #Sam and #Emily’s cabin.

My auntie #ElizabethClearwater  had followed close behind with #Rachel driving her.  She wanted to make sure the young girl had been okay. As she’d worked closely in LA with abused women shelters part time, she knew right away when something had been off in the situation. Where I needed my Warriors ears, my auntie had used her human intuition to deem the danger unfolding before her eyes.  #ElizabethClearwater was a woman no one dared to mess with. But when she sat with the young woman, her voice soft, her hands holding the shaking one of the girls. I could see my Da in my aunts gentle and kind voice.

#TheKid and I had always said that the bar would be a place  of safety, where no one would feel uncomfortable, unwelcome, or harassed. But that twat had managed to make a girl feel all of those things at once.

The spirits had been on our side that night, the young woman hadn’t been hurt physically, emotionally, and mentally,  it was going to take a toll on her. When I had rode her to her dorm block, she had asked me to walk her to her room.

The fear in her eyes, had been casting this rage in me since that night, which I couldn’t unleash until now. Even if I was only fighting myself and the skins,  it was better than doing nothing and setting myself up for failure.

‘You’re not failing. You took the steps needed to make sure you succeed.’

She watched from within. Ready to step up and support me if and when I needed her. But for now. My fist needed to feel the pressure of the skins pushing back.

#LeahClearwater #ElizabethClearwater #TwilightRP #TwiRP #Solo #AUWorld #HotHeadSheWolf #SpiritsHotHead #Youtube

[amirrorneverlies]

No Man Left Behind  - A story told with Jacob Black - Part 1

“Family means no one gets left behind or forgotten.” - David Ogden Stiers

※ Bella ※

“Are you… okay there Jacob?”

※ Jacob ※

"Wh... what... Me?" Trying to act cool.

"Fine... yeah.. totally cool.. how, eh, how about you? you okay?"

※ Bella ※

Tilting my head slightly watching the boy stumbling over those words. “I am just dandy.”

Whispering this time. “Are you sure you are okay?”

※ Jacob ※

Laughing now and feel a little more at ease. “Dandy? That’s a good thing, right?” I smiled at her. “I'm good, Bells.”

※ Bella ※

Shrugging my shoulders. “From what I know. Yeah. It’s meant to be. Why do you know differently?” Half smiling now that he has relaxed just so.

※ Jacob ※

Shrugging my shoulders. “From what I know. Yeah. It’s meant to be. Why do you know differently?” Half smiling now that he has relaxed just so.

※ Bella ※

Smiling and lowering my head. “Oh… uhmm…” clearing my throat and then rubbing the side of my head. “Charlie has been working long days. I may have been watching and re-reading pride and prejudice again.”

※ Jacob ※

“And the puzzle that is Bella Swan Becomes just a little clearer.” I smiled her, we had talked about books before. I had told I was a big reader.

“You know, I checked out the library at school… and checked out a on the history of cars since they were invented.”

※ Bella ※

I would have said I was anything but a puzzle to solve. However, #Charlie and #Renée would agree. Tilting my head to the side. He had heard and taken my advice?

“Really? You listened?” Looking up to the sky and back again half smiling. “And? Does it peak your interest?”

※ Jacob ※

“I wouldn’t say I’ve ready it covers to cover but I flick through, reach the parts that caught my attention…” I smiled. “Did you know the world’s first speeding ticket was issued it 1902?”

※ Bella ※

“The fact you picked something up is a start.” Leaning back into the wall, my smile grew a little.

“1902? Really. I did not know that. What was the speed the ticket was issued for?”

※ Jacob ※

I smiled at her. "A completely scandalous forty-five miles an hour!" I chuckled.

"I'll go back and find myself something else that will interest me too... you may have started a slow-burn love affair between and books."

※ Bella ※

“Lock them up and throw away the key.” A slow and soft chuckle escaped from me, making me shift and nudge him in the side with my shoulder.

“I told you; it’s about finding your perfect match; the rest is history.”

※ Jacob ※

“I know!! I was completely outraged when I read!” I said in mock horror. “Such reckless behaviour.”

I gave Bella a crooked smile. “Well… we’ll see I would much rather get my hands dirty working on a car but when I can’t do that, I could see myself reading about them.”

※ Bella ※

“Horrible behaviour Master Black, who is the bad influence in your life? They should be banned!”

Tilting my head off to the side. “This is the joy of reading Jacob. It’s knowledge to help you love and appreciate what you enjoy even more.”

※ Jacob ※

I laughed but smiled brightly, kicking the dirt. "Has any ever told you, your kind of a nerd Isabella Swan."

※ Bella ※

Clearing my throat and shrugging my shoulders. “You, say it as though it were a bad thing. I’m actually proud to be identified as a nerd.”

※ Jacob ※

“You should be... Nerds are hot...” My face heated. “I mean, you know... In general,... Guys like smart girls. Or girls... Like them too....” I was an idiot.

※ Bella ※

Trying my hardest to control the smile bursting out of me, my index finger keeping my lips together I looked up and away. He was so sweet while he rambled and fell over his words.

“Guys and girls. Got it.”

※ Jacob ※

I could see she was trying not to laugh. I shook my head. “You know some people think that rambling is cute too. Sometimes… I mean… not my rambling… but some peoples.”

I grinned. That ramble was on purpose.

※ Bella ※

This time the floodgates flew open and there was No way for me to take a hold to them. I hadn’t smiled and laughed in so long, and now the count that I had were all thanks to my friend.

“Jacob! Stop!” Still laughing I shook my head. “You’re right…. So… right…”

※ Jacob ※

I beamed seeing her smile, hearing that laugh. "I would make a fool of myself all day every day just to make you laugh, Bells."

※ Bella ※

My laughter faltered just a little, nudging my friend in the side. “Thank you…” nudging him again my laughter softening. “Because I know you would do it too. And that mean a lot to me.”

※ Jacob ※

“I will… promise.” I chuckled. “But you need to keep coming around…”

I gave her a look… I didn’t want to talk about her dark days, she was working so hard to climb out of them. “We’d all miss you around here if you stopped.” It was the complete truth and I hoped she saw it  for what it truly was. It wants pity or sympathy. Bella was fun… in a semi-responsible way, we all enjoyed hanging out with her…

“Especially with Embry going AWOL.”

※ Bella ※

My breath hitched from the kindness this boy showed. Well... every one of them showed to me. It was like nothing I’d felt before.

“Promise.” I said hugging myself with my arms, still needed the comfort of my own embrace from time to time.

My head jerked up at the mention of Embry. “Wait… you still haven’t seen him? Since he hurt himself at my place?” Trying to think about the last time we’d spoken about his injury.

※ Jacob ※

She almost closed down again. But her concern for #Embry kicked in before she could.

"Oh, he's not... injured." I said inhaling deeply. "And I've seen him... he just doesn't want to see us... apparently." I sighed and kicked the dirt again.

※ Bella ※

Concern drew me to take a few steps forward towards my friends. “What do you mean? Did you both fight?”

I couldn’t see how Embry wouldn’t want to see Jake. They three friends had been inseparable when I saw them together last at my house.

※ Jacob ※

“No.” I said too fast. I don’t think so… I hadn’t been happy with him after what he said to Bella in front of my father. Had he taken that to heart?

“No… no… we… he just started hanging out with #SamUley. He hadn’t called and he won’t see us when we drop by.”

※ Bella ※

My brow pulled together in a small frown. He’d answered too quickly. However, Jake was like that sometimes.  “Sam? Isn’t he a little too old to be hanging with someone like Embry?”

※ Jacob ※

"He definitely is... but he's been hanging out with #Jared and And #Paul too... they're both in our grade.. and Paul... let's just say the kid had problems ever before he started hanging with #Uley."

※ Bella ※

Unaware of the two new names, I just nod my head while taking everything in. “Are you afraid for Embry?” The memory of Sam’s arms around me while he carried me out of the forest not once, but twice….

Wait… my mind replayed a mutter conversation. Three voices. Sam and two others?

※ Jacob ※

“No…” I said but my chin dipped in a nod. “Yeah… maybe… Momma T… his mom Tiffany… She’s worried… like talking about sending him to leave with his grandparents in Neah Bay worried so his grandfather can…straighten out or something.”

I sighed and shook it off. “They all follow him around like Groupies or something.”

※ Bella ※

My brows pulled together with concern. Concern for Embry… a boy I didn’t really know, however we were on the path of friendship. And more so for my friend before me now.

Placing a hand on his shoulder. (He’d grown for sure.) I squeezed gently.

“I can talk to Charlie. see what he knows or can find out?“ However, I knew #Charlie had high regards for #Sam ever since he found me a year ago.

“Is there anything in particular you can say is wrong? With them all being together like this? Something Charlie can look into?”

※ Jacob ※

"There's no need... We talked to Dad about and he told us to let it go... and they haven't actually done anything wrong..." I was shaking my head again. "Other than #Paul... but always got into fights and trouble at school."

I looked up at Bella and shrugged. "Tiffany thinks  Embry is on drugs... I don't think he is. But she's a worrier, she always jumps the worst-case scenario when it comes to him." I gave her a smile when she reached out to me.

"It's going to be okay... The three of us aren't just friends... Quil and 'Bry are lie my brother's... he'll come around."

※ Bella ※

“The offer stands. Not that you need me to talk to him. You know where #Charlie lives after all.”

I schooled my face, not letting the facts in my mind roll off my tongue. Statistically the boys at their age were showed to be at high Risk of developing some form of drug abuse short or long term. However, at the same time I couldn’t see #Billy, #Harry, #Sue and all the others allowing it. I could see #Billy chasing them all down with his chair to ‘straighten them out’.

Letting my hand drop. “I’m glad to see you know Embry well enough to calm his mom a little. She must been really upset and uncertain right now.”

※ Jacob ※

"Thank you, Bella... and I would consider it... only."  I paused for a second... "I suppose it's just that I can't be sure what they up to... it might not be something so bad as drugs but... I could be illegal and I would hate to put #Charlie in that position..." I doubted highly he would bust #Embry but that would leave him in a bind with his job.

"And I'm fairly sure it breaks a friend code or some variety. Besides... Dad and #HarryClearwater have been over at his house a lot lately."

※ Bella ※

“We could do it.” The words tumbled out before I could think or stop them. I had been thinking ‘See, I knew #Billy and #Harry would take care of these boys.’ But instead… I said again.

“Why don’t we find out what is going on?” Crap! Was I insane? It was clear I needed to stop with the Sherlock Holmes books, and maybe stick to something less crime fighting?

“I mean... if you want too? If you’re not sure what is happening, and worried. Which I can see you are. Would it hurt us to check things out?”

Yes… yes it would…. #Charlie would kill me! and I believed in people being allowed their privacy. This was wrong on so many levels.

And then I saw the way Jake looked so worried. And I wanted to take that away from him. I didn’t want my friend to be in pain.

※ Jacob ※

I tilted my head and grinned at her. “You want to go all Nancy Drew on Embry?” I asked her…

It wasn’t a terrible idea. Maybe he would talk to Bella… he had a crush on her after all. And I knew that he wouldn’t hurt her, he had said some pretty mean things to Quil, and I when we tried speaking to him.

“I mean we can drive around and see if he’s out and about… but I’m not sure he’ll speak to us. And… well, he’s been kind of and arsehole lately. If you’ll excuse my language.”

※ Bella ※

He thought it could work? Surprise took a hold before I could shake it off. “I was thinking more along the lines of Sherlock Holmes. However, Drew works as an example too.”

Shrugging my shoulders, a little as I spoke. “Really? You think we could find him and talk? Then we should go.” Saying it before I could change my mind.

“Sure, we can just drive around in the beast and see if we come across Embry, play it by ear?”  There was nothing wrong with this plan, right? It would work… of course it could.

※ Jacob ※

“You are being British again?” I teased her about the Sherlock Holmes comment.

“Surely let’s drive around. We should try the beach first… just…” I pressed my lips into a tight line. “If we find him and he strums off or says something mean… I don’t think he means it… he’s  going through something. And if he’s with the whole group we should just leave.”

I didn’t to get mixed up with #Sam or with #Paul’s temper.

※ Bella ※

“What can I say, the British literature hits the spot better?” It wasn’t meant to be a question; however I wasn’t mind it had ending up being so at the same time.

Fishing the keys to the beast out of my coat pockets, I frowned. “Did he say something mean to you?”

How did Jacob know to be aware of the unkind words if he hadn’t witnessed them before?

“When you saw him last, what exactly did you talk about?” Stepping back towards my truck, I tripped over my own feet, but caught myself straightening up before anyone noticed.

※ Jacob ※

"At least you know what you like." I laughed.

I followed her to the truck and bit the inside for my cheek... "Sort of... He's mostly told me to get lost and to leave him alone... and that its better if we weren't friends anymore?"

One brow lifted when i saw her trip but I  to close the other side of the truck to try to catch her.

She acted like it hadn't happened, so I did too. I could always tease her for it later.

※ Bella ※

“Embry? Embry Call? The boy who stood in my yard and in my home joking, laughing, and—“ stopping myself from saying ‘flirting’, because I didn’t need to fuel that fire.

“That Embry told you these things?” This information was jarring to hear. That a friend like Embry could say such things, broke my heart for Jacob and #Quil.

Climbing in I sat looking out the front screen for a moment or two. “Are you okay?” Finally asking.

※ Jacob ※

The look on her face proved she couldn’t believe it as me as I couldn’t.

“The very same… that’s I think…. I think maybe somethings wrong. Maybe he got in same kinda trouble he doesn’t want to tell us about.”

I just couldn’t of anything he wouldn’t trust #Quil or I with. I could figure that out I might be able to fix it all.

“I’m…” I shook my head… I didn’t know how to answer that. She was the first person to ask me that since all of this started. “Not… I’m afraid for him… I worried. And I miss my friend. We hung out every day and I mean  every single day for as long as I can remember. Even the day he had his appendix out… we were there waiting for him to get out of surgery…” I buckled my seat belt. “None of this makes any sense.”

※ Bella ※

Tugging on my seat belt too hard making it lock while I listened to Jacob speak. None of this mattered to most people, however their friendship, it was a bond, a brotherhood.

“Jake…. I want to say it will be okay, however I’m not going to lie to you. What I will say. we will get to the bottom of it all. Whatever the reason. We will find out.”

The ‘how’ was still up in the air. However, determination how to count for something.

Turn in the ignition, my beast came to life, and I reversed out onto the street.  “Where to first?”

※ Jacob ※

I nodded, listening to every word she said. I appreciated the way she was being realistic and still comforting.

“Maybe that what I need to tell #Quil… I keep trying to tell him it will be fine, and He’ll be back to normal soon… but I don’t think it helps.”

I turned to look at Bella. “I think the beach is the best place to start. 2nd Beach not first… They don’t hang out on first on more.”

※ Bella ※

“It’s always best to be honest Jake, at least I’ve come to learn this. Giving false hope doesn’t help anyone in the end.”

Pushing back the chasm attempting to reopen moments and promises which gave me false hope as I said it. “I can take us part the way, remind me where I need to turn off.”

First beach had been the one I’d visited a few times. However, recalling the signs to second Beach on the way I could find my way if needed.

“Is Quil very upset?” I asked.

※ Jacob ※

“You’re right… I know… I guess it just doesn’t feel dishonest when you hope you’re telling the truth… and trying t make people feel better.”

i nodded when she told me she need some direction. “Sure thing. Just keep driving past First Beach and I’ll tell you where to turn  off. You can’t see the beach from the road, there is bit of a trail we need to take.”

I thought about her next question… “#Quil… Quil and #Embry have always been closer to each than to me… I know that kinda sound bad when the three of us are best friends. But it’s not like that. Maybe it and only child thing or something, I don’t know. But, all this is a little harder on him than it is on me.”

※ Bella ※

Even with the windows rolled up the roar of my truck was evident. And when I hit some uneven road, we could feel the jolt of it too our skeletons. However, still I would want nothing else.

He was my way to freedom, to getting out and doing something so that #Charlie didn’t start his worrying about leaving me home alone all the time.

Taking in Jacob’s concerns I found myself frowning with my hold on the wheel tightening.

“I kind of understand what you mean. Being an only child and all.” Except I didn’t have the friendships these boys shared. “What is Quil’s take on it all? Does he think that Embry is…” I didn’t want to say ‘taking drugs’, but if anyone would know, it would be your friends, right?

※ Jacob ※

I honestly couldn't imagine what it would have been like to grow without the twins and not just because they looked after me after Mom died.

"#Quil thinks he's in some kinda trouble... but he doesn't believe its drugs... he says he’s been too afraid of what his mother would do  she found out... but..."

I stopped because #Embry was already treating his mother unlike anything we would have expected.

"Take the next turn here, it's a carpark that is not exactly a car park. But everyone uses it" It was a levelled dirty and gravel plot with no lines painted, but it was right next to the trial that led to second beach.

※ Bella ※

The faces of the kind and jovial boys came to the forefront of my mind. It had been days… days since they were at my house, laughing, joking, and teasing one another.

#Quil and #Embry climbing over each other and teasing me too. And now I had to imagine the kindness of one had vanished, while the other would be cast in shadows of sadness. Something I knew too well.

#Alice’s face pushed its way out of my lock box, and I pushed it right back, before the sight of all my unread emails came rushing through too.

Shaking my head, to stop the sting from embedding right now, because this wasn’t about me. It was about Jacob, Quil, and Embry.

I took the turn and followed the ‘road’ if you could call it one. “He is holding out hope, and worried.”

The jerky stops on the uneven surface, and we were parked.

※ Jacob ※

I could Bella wasn’t used to what we called roads here. I had a feeling getting used to driving in Forks was strange enough after Phoenix, but parts of the Rez… it was basically patches of earth cleared by locals.

“Driving on the Rez is a little different from town.” I chuckled, glad for the short break from the heavy conversation.

“There’s a bit of a walk to the beach, but it’s a nice trail.” I unbuckled my seat belt and climbed out of the truck.

※ Bella ※

My gaze moved over to Jacob. “No…” I stopped myself. I didn’t want to lie to him. “Well, actually. Driving the roads with the wet weather, the forests, and all took me a minute to get used too. Back in phoenix the problems in driving were different.”

A memory of Mom making me run out to the car to open all the windows to cool it down before we had to use it came rushing in. And I missed her.

Taking the keys out of the ignition, I sat there thinking of her for a little. Telling myself to call her tonight to catch up. “Shall we go? I kind of  want to see what this secret beach is hiding here.” Half smiling as I unfastened my seatbelt.

※ Jacob ※

“I wouldn’t say it’s a secret beach… but mostly the townies come her to surf. And they don’t like to carry the boards on the trail, so it usually a little quieter here.”

I climbed out and waited for Bella at the back of the truck. “It’s a nice walk though. Just watch your  feet.” I chuckled and led the way to the trailhead. “There is a lot of trip hazards.” I grinned and planned to stay close enough to catch her. At least it wasn’t steep.

※ Bella ※

“What? My feet?” Pointing down to my chucks. “These have promised to behave themselves today.” Not overthinking the fact that I had tripped climbing into the truck just before.

Following behind my untrusted feet came to a stop. “Okay, I can see why people wouldn’t want to  carry their boards in there.” It was indeed beautiful, however there were steps. And Bella Swan and steps, didn’t always see eye to eye.

“This is going to be fine.” Saying so more to myself as I began the climb up the first three nice and slow.

“How often do you guys come up here?” Asking as I kept my eye down on the uneven surface.

※ Jacob ※

I laughed again, it felt to relax a little bit after the last few days. So, I told myself to just enjoy her company until we found out if #Embry was on the beach or not.

“Yeah, it’s not an easy task.” I thought about her next question… “It really depends on… if we want to swim or  just hang out we came here. Or if we want to light a fire… but if we wanna kick a ball around of if the guys want to try meet a townie girl or a tourist, we’ll go to first.”

I saw how hard she was concentrating and chuckled. “Hey… Need an arm to lean on?” I teased and  linked my arm with hers so I could least catch her if she stumbled.

※ Bella ※

“Heel, toe… heel, toe..” I mouthed to myself while listening to him and walking. Somehow, I wanted to make sure I didn’t make a fool of myself today. It was for myself more than for Jacob, I knew my friend wouldn’t judge me for it, however I also knew I wouldn’t let myself off the hook.

His arm linked into mine for a moment making my heart race and climb to jump out of my chest, however, the nothing happened. I didn’t want to pull away, I wasn’t feeling like the world was closing in on me. I was… just me!

Leaning into him, my arms and hand curled around his. Keeping me straight be Jacob Black standard at least. “Thank you, I am okay with taking a little help from my friends.” Just not often.

“Okay, so.. now things are all falling into place.” Arching my brow my dark brown eyes glanced over quickly before looking down at the path. “When you said you weren’t looking to date anyone at school, it’s because Jacob Black is a player… Townie girls… and tourists who come and leave are more your kind. I did not see that coming.”

※ Jacob ※

I laughed and teased her again. “Oh, this is purely selfish. I work very hard to make people think I’m a polite young man… if I laugh at you for falling I’ll be totally busted.” But I think we both knew I wouldn’t laugh… definitely not on this trail.

I tilted my head to the denying that I was occasionally interested in a girl we met on the beach wouldn’t just be hard to believe, it would be a lie. “I wouldn’t go that far. There’s been a girl every now and then staying in the lodges that I liked… But I don’t really like the idea of a summer fling… and I know not everyone finds their soulmate in their first girlfriend…” I shrugged my shoulders. “But it sounds kinda awesome if you ask me.”

I knew of so many high school romances that turned into lifelong marriages… but I knew for this generation it was an  unrealistic ideal.

※ Bella ※

“And now the truth be hit the facts come out to play. Jacob Black is not really one of the nice guys!” Laughing a little again, I shook my head. Because even a blind person could see the truth and the lie in that statement. Adding to which his following comments.

“Finding soulmates? A little deep for a teenager to be thinking of isn’t it?” I wouldn’t let the chasm in my chest open up. Soulmates, love forever, things that I once believed in but not so much anymore.

Daring to look up to take in the view, just enough before my eyes were down once again.

※ Jacob ※

I laughed, I like bed she was relaxed and teasing around me. After everything she'd gone through, she deserves to just feel... At ease. Maybe even happy. And if I was reason... It's was okay to feel good about that, right?

“I guess it not normal... I know that #Quil and #Embry are planning on a long list of exes.” I chuckled. “If they ever get a date that is. But…” I shrugged again, continuing down the trail, and holding onto her arm a little tighter on the steeper parts. How did I explain this? “Did you know my mom and dad were each other’s first kiss? First…. Well everything, actually. First and only.”

※ Bella ※

“Do they now? I’m sure they are well on the way. Those two look the type of boys who have dates every weekend.” My foot slipped, and I squeezed onto his arm for balance but did not trip over. Thanking my guardian angel!

And then I smiled. A real and genuine warm smile at the mention of his parents. “No, I didn’t know that they were. They were high school sweethearts?”

My heart felt easy at the thought of having two parents who loved one another. Not that I held #Charlie and #Renee to this obtainable standard. They tried, it didn’t work.

※ Jacob ※

I laughed harder, hoping not to make it obvious I was trying catch her when she slipped a little. But she held onto me for support… the was a good thing right? Trust? I was probably reading to much into her not want to face plant.

“Not really… #Quil gets a lot of numbers… but he usually puts his foot in his before making it to the first date. #Embry is just… awkward.”

I nodded. “Dad said he fell in love with her in middle school. But she had no time for him until his growth spurt in the 9th grade. I know it’s probably unrealistic… but  I guess I know what I want my life to look like… and when you’re with the right person… I think you’ll just… know, you know?” I smiled at her.

※ Bella ※

“I have a few friends how could give the guys some pointers.” I knew #Ang would be happy to help if asked.

My confidence grew as we continued up the path. “Middle school? I didn’t know Billy had it in him.” It was such a sweet thing to admit to your children. I could see  the Black’s and Swans had very different personalities and relationships within their family dynamics.

My gaze lifted to needs my friends. “You really feel that you know now what you want your life to look like?” I wasn’t patronising him, I genuinely thought all teens spent all their times trying to imagine and failed a few time before they locked such a thing down.

“Would it be too intrusive to ask what this life of yours looks like?” Quickly adding. “You don’t have to share. I’m just curious.”

※ Jacob ※

“You want to teach them how to flirt?” I laughed. “Nah… let them learn the hard way… lessons last longer when you have to work for them.”

I smile and her and nodded. “Yeah… I dos I mean I don’t have a ten-step plan or anything. I just… I wanna graduate, get certified to work on cars. Fall in love, follow her to college because I’m such a romantic.” I clutched my heart like it was breaking. “Then…” I shook my head. “Nope too embarrassing! But nothing is set in stone. You know? But I do really want kids… eventually, I mean.”

※ Bella ※

“Me?” Stuttering and clambering over one small word. “NO!” Okay that small word came out too loud. “I mean…. No…. Me? No… I said I knew people who could help.”

Heat rose reddening the apples of my cheeks. “However, there you go again. You sound to old for your age.” teasing him to hide my own embarrassment. “You aren’t meant to know about life lessons and how to best remember them.”

Now I came to a stop tuning to look at his perfect soft face. “So young with so many dreams. Why would you follow a girl to college? Don’t you want to go yourself?” I knew the answer. At least I thought I did.

Jake wouldn’t be happy with books. He wanted to make something for himself in a practical way. Smiling a little because I wished for all his dreams to come true.

※ Jacob ※

I laughed harder. “Oh I see! You're not willing to subject yourself to that kind of torture but you’ll toss your friends into the wolves den without a thought!” I grinned at her. “That's stone -cold swan! I didn't know you have it in you! I'm impressed.”

I could hear the ocean now as we walked.

“A mechanics apprenticeship involves a little schooling... But there are cars everywhere, you can learn how to give them everywhere, you know. That's not always true for the things other people want to learn. So I think it's fair... But first someone has to fall in love with me.” I looked ahead now at the forest slowly giving way to the sand and driftwood trees in haphazard rows along the shore.

※ Bella ※

“Wolves have the cutest puppies, I’m sure my friends will have the best time playing with them.” Saying with a matter fact click of my tongue.

However, he had hit the nail on the head. “I don’t have the best advice when it comes to dating.” And for once I didn’t mean my ex. I just hadn’t dated before him.

I held my chest readying myself to the turmoil to follow, however it did not arrive?

With a puzzling look in my eyes, I patted Jacob’s arm. “Just promise me one thing… don’t set your dreams aside for anyone else, and if you do, make sure she deserves you. You’re too kind of soul not to be appreciated my friend.”

Eyes ahead now I stopped walking at noticing the first of the fallen driftwood trees. “It’s so beautiful.” I hadn’t even gotten a full look, however the scent and sound of the ocean, even with the  cold Biting at my face. It was magnificent.

※ Jacob ※

She older in n herself a little and it made me slow and turn more towards her. But after a few breaths, she seemed to be... Okay. So instead of asking her what it was, I let her be okay. Then... Maybe one day she would tell me in her own time.

The strong of being friend zoned again, settle in. And the instant guilt, I should see that as a bad thing... Bella was incredible. Being her friend was a privilege. I continued, skipping over her first point without meaning to.

“It is, isn't it?” I noticed her cheek tint pink. But there's no shelter from the wind. Do you want my jacket? I'm used to it here.”

※ Bella ※

Everything other thought had been forgotten for a brief moment. “It really is. I cannot believe I’ve never been here before.” My voice trailed off as I picked up a little speed, wanting to have a better look into the rest of the beach.

“No, not at all. I have a coat on.” Tugging at the collar as if I needed to prove the fact to him. Not as though he could see it, right? At my stupidity I tugged at it once more. “You will freeze out here. As beautifully breathtaking it is, it’s cold too.”

※ Jacob ※

“Honestly I’m used to it… so if you change your mind just say, but if you turn blue, I will have to insist.” I grinned. “Or try to insist at least.”

I led the way further down the beach, daring to let go of her arm, not wanting to seem overbearing. I was sure she’d manage not  to trip here, even with the driftwood scatted across the stony shore.

“If they are here, they’ll be up this way.” I motioned up the beach. Walking along the stretch between where the tree trunks were deposited at high tide and the water. The mood shifting back to our conversation. “They keep away from where most people hang out.”

※ Bella ※

“If I turn blue, run, and save yourself. It’s over for me. Let me go in peace.” The joke fell flat to my own ears when something shifted between Jacob and myself.

It wasn’t really us, it had more to do with why we had come down here in the first place.

“Why would you keep their distance from other?” Tucking my hands deep into my pockets. “Unless they are really up to no good at all?”

What had #Embry gotten himself involved in here?

※ Jacob ※

I chuckled. “How about of you start to turn blue I’ll give you my jacket and we head back to the truck to warm up?”

Then I turn my attention to her other question. I shrugged. “They’ve all been weird, starting fights… skipping school cutting off their friends, running around  all of the night. No one knows why, others than saying all teens act out, but this isn’t the same.”

I walked with her up the beach. Hearing voices carried on the wind. I hated myself because my first though hoping #Embry wasn’t here. I hated seeing him like this.

※ Bella ※

“Starting fights? Why—”

The words were cut short at the sound travelling over to our side, noticing the way Jacob reacted I couldn’t help myself. Reaching out my now slightly warmer hand I took his.

“Don’t worry, I’m right here with you.” Giving a tender squeeze to elevate the point of my my words.

‘What are you doing here?’ A deep, angry voice caught me off guard. ‘And why did you bring her?’ The aggression possible towards me.

However, why? What had I done to deserve this welcome?

※ Jacob ※

Those dark thoughts were abruptly shut down when I felt Bella’s hand in mine.

Then that too-familiar voice came from behind us. “Shit!” I muttered under my breath… swearing wasn’t normally my first reaction… but today…

I tugged Bella closer, this man terrified me, but I wasn’t about to let him make Bella feel that way too.

“We’re looking for #Embry… and we can be here… this isn’t private property. Just because e you think you own this beach, #Sam… Doesn’t make it true.” I took a step away, keeping hold of Bella’s hand.

“C’mon Bella… Let’s go find our friend.” I pulled her with me, continuing the way we had been walking before #SamUley appeared.

※ Bella ※

The tension in the air was palpable, with the look in his dark earthy eyes drawing me in. These eyes I had seen before? In my dreams?

No…  I shook my head… I was Not dreaming of this man. I had seen #Sam before, closely…

Before I could say anything more, Jacob had stepped before me, hiding me in plain sight of the towering man. However, it still felt as though he could see me.

‘Jacob stop.’ He called my feet frozen with the command in his voice. Slowly my head half turned back.

‘Bella…’ he started but then thought better of whatever  he had been thinking of.

‘It’s too cold out here for the two of you. And Embry is busy. Now isn’t a good time.’ #Sam finally said.

“Therefore, Embry is here? At the beach?” Then the sounds of laughter came from down the ocean way, as an answer.

※ Jacob ※

I couldn’t help it, I stopped when #Sam told me to and hated myself for it. It made me feel spineless. But Bella… she wasn’t intimidated by this man in the slightest.

My head snapped in the direction of the laughter at the same time as Bella’s. I started towards it again, still holding onto Bella’s hand #Embry quickly came into sight, kicking a soccer ball with #JaredCameron and #PaulLahote. Jay used to be a nerd… Paul was always kind of a loner… but mostly harmless.

They were all shirtless… “They must be insane!” I muttered as ‘Bry sniffed the air and turned to spot us.

※ Bella ※

Step in step with Jacob I walked, looking back at #Sam who stood with his feet apart and firmly grounded, and his arms crossed over his chest.

‘Jake… Bella…’ #Embry called. his eyes shifted to over my shoulder, where I knew #Sam stood. Something in the boy I remembered as  funny and kind boys eyes changed, before he glazed away and then down. The way Embry said my name has changed too. There were no signs of the flotation or admiration that had coveted the sound of my name before when this boy said it.

‘What is she doing here?’ The other boy behind Embry asked, in what felt like venom and hatred in his voice. But… why?

“Why does everyone here keep asking that?” Dismissing the one with what looked to be anger issues. I smiled to the boy I wanted to speak with.

“Embry?” Squeezing the hand in mine tightly as I spoke. “Hi… we wanted to see how you were. Your foot?” I pointed down to the ground. “I was worried after you didn’t come back to mine the next day.”

He shifted where he stood, once again glancing over my shoulder. “Embry… don’t be scared… do you need help? Come with us. With Jacob and I … let’s go.. maybe get some lunch and talk?”

The boys behind him snarled then their gaze went past Jacob and me before stopping.

※ Jacob ※

I moment he looked past me to #Sam I felt anger like never before. What on earth was the doing to my friend that made him afraid to speak to his best friend in his presence? I squeezed Bella’s hand again and took comfort in her steady calm.

I didn’t know how to answer his question… Should I tell him I’d told her everything? Confided in her how upsetting all of this was?

But Bella answered it before I needed to make a decision. Embry was looking at Bella like he was waiting for something…

‘I’m not scared of anyone.’ he said with an edge to  his voice. The same edge that was becoming his new normal. His gaze drifted to where my hands were still clasped around Bella’s, something in his look made me shift closer to her. ‘So, this is a thing now?’ He took a few steps closer, his eyes on Bella again. After a few seconds he shook his head. ‘It's about time.’ His tone was mocking and angry and I had to resist the urge to step backwards.

“‘Bry… what is wrong with you? This isn’t you?” I finally found my words.

※ Bella ※

At first, I couldn’t understand what he meant by ; ‘So, this is a thing now?’

And I didn’t give it too much mind. For me the exchange between the two friends who had been like brothers broke my heart.

The way #Embry spoke and looked to me, then towards Jacob gave me such an unexpected urge to hold on to him even tighter. However, he had taken said step already.

‘How would you know what I am?’ #Embry mocked taking another step forward now in a menacing way.

‘Bry’ the voice came from behind making him stop in his steps.

“Sam… I know you’re all big and older. However please could you just let Embry speak!” My voice sounded normal, without the anxiety, I was feeling internally.

‘You don’t speak to Sam like that Bella Swan. You’re not welcome here on our lands. So, leave!’ The boy with the anger issues spat out to me. This time my heart jumped, and my feet moved back.

‘Paul… stand down.’ #Sam came to stand in the space between them and us.

※ Jacob ※

The fact he could ask me that hit me like such a physical blow I took half a step backwards. "#Embry.... we've been best friends our whole lives... you stood next to me at my mother's funeral... how can you ask me that?"

What the hell was wrong with these guys? #Paul's words  were just vicious.

"Bella is welcome here and always will be... Who do you think you are speaking to someone like that. Wasn't it only a few years ago you were saying the same thing to #Embry because he has Makah blood... and now all of a sudden, you're inseparable?" I turned my gaze to Embry for the last part, hoping he would see some sense.

'Why are you here bringing up ancient history Jake?' My friend snapped. 'Just go! We're done. Get it... Done.'

This wasn't right... this wasn't the guy I knew.

※ Bella ※

Tears pricked at the back of my eyes, from the cold wind.

From the way these boys were fighting.

Or was it from the realisation that somehow, I was playing some part into this?

“Jacob.” Squeezing his hand my eyes moved between all the faces. Even the boy in the back holding the ball. He watched ready to step in if needed. But it wasn’t needed.

‘E n o y g h !!!’

#Sam’s voice boomed, making the uncomfortable sensation within me bubble to life. Placing my free hand over my chest and taking in a slow and deep breath I stood looking confused at  what was happening.

‘Jacob, you should get Bella off the beach and out the cold. She doesn’t look too well.’

Hearing #Sam’s voice but also not hearing it at the same time. I felt like I was a shadow of myself, as though witnessing all of this from behind a glass door.

“Uhm… yeah…” I whisper tugging tightly to the hand still in mine.

However, I didn’t want to take this opportunity and have it lost for good.

“Please, Sam… Embry… just… I will leave.” I let his hand go and took a few steps back. “Please Embry, just talk to Jacob.”

#Sam stood watching me with his deep dark eyes. It felt like he could see something I wasn’t willing to share.

Nodding my head, I turned to walk back the way I came. Clenching my chest trying to gather the wind that had been knocked out of me, with my head beating in my ears.

※ Jacob ※

I felt Bella tighten her grip on my hand and I knew then it was time to leave. #Sam's voice made something in my chest tighten and all the guys fell silent and still. It was eerie.

And whatever it was... clearly had an effect on Bella too. She let go of my hand and I took a step closer to #Embry. "I'm not gonna give up 'Bry... Not on you. Not ever."

He chewed his lips like he did when he was trying to control his emotions and dropped his eyes to the sand.

"But I brought Bella here... So, I'm going to bring her home. You know where to find me." I turned and jogged to catch up with Bella, zipping off my jacket to wrap around her shoulders. "C'mon Bella... let's get out of here."

※ Bella ※

The voices behind me grew dull with each step I took, my eyes blurred… but not. There is was again, that glass closing me off, and moving with me. My eyesight flickered over and over until I succeeded to squeeze my eyes close and rub them hard. I was shaking, from what I didn’t know.

“Stop it… stop it!” I told myself scared that the chasm within me, within my chest was breaking open again. Was this how it happened before? Had the world just melted away like this and I hadn’t fault back?

“NO!” I told myself. No…. I wouldn’t do that to #Charlie or #Renée or my friends… or… myself.

“Not again..” I said with my lips and teeth chattering. I pushed my will into it, my all. And it felt like something snapped. And it snapped so hard that I felt my feet stumbling before I caught myself.

Everything around me came into focus. The sound of the crashing waves, the cold wind whipping my hair all over the place, the footsteps behind me. And then I felt the coat around my shoulders.

“Jacob…. I’m sorry…” we walked in step when I felt it. Turning my head, I saw two faces watching and I could tell for very different reasons. #Embry with sorrow. And #Sam with conjecture.

※ Jacob ※

There was something else wrong with her. This wasn't just being upset by what had happened or frightened at the untethered aggression. What the hell was wrong with Paul anyway?

"It's okay, Bella." I wrapped my arm around her shoulders, ready to steady her if she needed it. "Let's get off the beach and we can catch our breath. Okay?"

I could feel several pair of eyes on our backs, but I didn't look back. I focused on getting Bella to the trail. Once we were far enough up the path that we were out of sight I stopped and turned her to face me. Concern etched into every feature as I asked.

"Are you okay?"

※ Bella ※

My teeth wouldn’t stop, the shivers consuming me now refused to stop too. Grateful to Jacob as he held me and guided me, as well as at the same time so upset with myself that I needed a helping hand once again. The mixture of these emotions was overwhelming. By the time my friend stopped us I had gathered myself partially.

“I’m not going to lie. No.. I’m not okay. However, right now it’s not the pressing matter. Did Embry talk to you after I left?”

I couldn’t tell how much time had passed before Jacob left his best friend because he felt he needed to save me?

※ Jacob ※

She was freezing... Damn! I shouldn't have brought her here... But I didn't feel cold at all? Then again... I didn't grow up in the desert.

"He didn't... It wasn't the right time, he wasn't... himself. Don't worry. We won't give up." And I knew that letting him sit on the  thoughts That #Paul had once said to him exactly what he'd said to Bella in the past would change his views.

There was no way he thought it was okay for #Lahote to speak to Bella like that. But he didn't speak out? When did he ever keep his thoughts to himself?

"Let's just get you to the truck and turn the heat on, yeah?" I tugged my jacket closer around her shoulders. "We can regroup... figure out what the hell just happened. Let's go." I put my arm around her again and started up the path.

※ Bella ※

None of this… this day… this situation made any sense to me, and by the sound of it.. to Jacob too.

“I’m sorry.” Unclear as to what, I just felt the need to apologise for how it all played out. “If I’d known… I wouldn’t have gone on the beach.”

However, once again it occurred to me, I’d been to La Push before. No one had told me I hadn’t belonged… except for… My eyes widened and my mouth went dry, turning my head back as Jacob lead me to the Beast. Thinking.

‘No… no… there’s No way that Billy would have told them… he wouldn’t have.’  even the thought of it made my stomach churn with anxiety. It wasn’t my story to tell. I had promised to keep his family’s secrets. Even if he hadn’t kept any promises made to me.

“Yeah… yeah.. please… regroup.” Once in the truck I blew into my hands. The onset of the chill still questionable. However, there were so many things swimming in my mind, I no longer had the capacity to understand how this all came apart so royally.

Turning the truck on, we sat there idling in silence. Certain Jacob had a need to unpack what had occurred too. finally when I could feet my fingers and toes again, turning to face him.

“Are you okay?” I asked.

※ Jacob ※

"You’ve nothing to apologize for and don’t let what #Paul said get to you. He's an ars-" I stopped myself. "He's never been the nicest of guys. He used to say the same thing to #Embry because his mother is Makah."

In her truck, I cranked up the heat and rubbed my hand over her  arms trying the urge a little warmth into her. I was stifling in the cab in a matter of minutes, but she still shivered. The cold must have gotten into her bones. This was such a bad idea. I laughed a little even now she was worried about me. So, I answered her honestly.

"No. But I will be... We won't just let this go. #Embry is a brother to #Quil and I... he always will be. Are you okay? Did they frighten you? .... on the beach?"

※ Bella ※

The cold bit my skin as the heat began to slowly penetrate. Still unable to explain how I’d reacted to the chill in the air so quickly without knowing. However, it wasn’t the most pressing matter right now.

Looking to Jacob, I consider his question before answering. “I won’t lie, yes, I was a little. Paul... did you say... and Sam…”

Placing a hand on my chest as I recalled the tightness that had completely overtaken me at the time. “And Embry, he’s changed.” The coldness in his eyes, it brought tears to my eyes. I swiped them away. “What can we do now? Do we wait to see if we can get him alone?”

Unable to stop myself from feeling proud at Jacob for his willingness not to give up on his brother.

※ Jacob ※

A little colour started to return to her cheeks. Not that she ever had a whole of colour when she was feeling great. But  she was still pretty… and her paleness made it so much cuter when she blushed… I was getting side tracked.

“I’m so sorry, Bella. I shouldn’t have ask you to come… I knew they might be rude and tell us to get lost.” I chewed on the inside of my cheek. “But I never thought they’d be so…. Intimidating.” I was so angry at how they’d spoken to her.

“We… Right now.” I put my arm around her pressed her into my side in the attempt at a one-armed hug I could manage in the cab of and old truck.

This wasn’t flirty in anyway or an excuse to touch her. This was a ‘my friend look likes she’s about to cry, vomit and faint any second’s.’ Kinda hug.

“I think we should get you a hot chocolate and take you home.”

※ Bella ※

“You have nothing to apologise for here, they were just as rude, and disrespectful, and .. and.. and… Intimidating to you too.” A little angry came to life with the warmth of the cab and with Jacob’s friendly hold.

I should have wanted to push free, being in the grasp of someone’s hold hasn’t works so well for me this past year or so. However, it wasn’t the same with him. Frowning my gaze moved to the pathway, no one had followed us down.

“Hot chocolate sounds heavenly, however.” Pointing my cold fingers to the cab surrounding us. “I’m the designated driver, so I need to drive you home my young friend.”

※ Jacob ※

I shook my head… “I can’t believe that #Embry would ever let them actually hurt either of us… But…” I sighed. I couldn’t help it, the way he was acting made me doubt it. It took all of my faith in our friendship to keep from letting that fear win out.

I laughed, my smile  growing at the break in the tension, gratitude in my eyes for the subject change.

There was no disputing her logic… If I took her home, I’d have to call someone to get a ride home. But if Bell had dropped me home and then headed home herself... it was unlikely that she would  run into them again on the road to Forks.

“Okay… I can’t argue with that.” I laughed. The simple act of it was like a balm for my worry. I knew it was temporary, but I needed the relief. “But only if you let buy the hot chocolate.” I released her from my hold and reached to buckle my seat belt.

※ Bella ※

Shifting back over to my side of the cab, I allowed my gaze to fall at the entire of the path. Hope blossomed that maybe, just maybe #Embry would come bounding over to make up with Jacob. However, no such luck.

“I told you. I am an intelligent woman; you cannot defy my  logic when it comes to hot chocolate.” Chewing on my lips. My brown worried eyes finding my friends again. Wanting to say…

‘He will be okay. He will see this is a mistake, and come back to you…’ However, the topic change meant I couldn’t push Jacob back to something so painful.

“Okay. Fine. You can buy the hot chocolate. However, I but the cookies.” Turning the key in the ignition, we sat in there while I reversed out of the parking lot.

※ Jacob ※

I shook my and gave her a sideways look. "No way... you are on my turf now Swan, So the hot chocolate 𝙖𝙣𝙙 cookies. Will be on this time."

She couldn't argue it was the same logic she used when she paid for the pizza the day we built her Father's new shed.

※ Bella ※

Giving Jacob a sideways glance, my lips curled a little with a warm smile. “Oh, now you are using my logic on me? So rude.”

Once on the road, my eyes moved to the beach as we drove by, wanting one final look at the gang. However, no one stood there. The beach was now deserted. Where had they gone?

“Uhm..” shaking my head with a frown between my eyebrow. I lost my train of thought before collecting it once again. “Okay.. fine.. this time the drink and snack is on you. Where would you like to go?”

※ Jacob ※

I lifted my chin triumphantly and flashed a bright grin. "I'll have you know I am well known for my lack of rudeness actually! I even won a certificate for it in 3rd grade."

I gave her a sympathetic look. "You're on the Rez now Swan." I chuckled. "There's only one place to  go... And lucky for you they have the best cookies and the second-best hot chocolate on the rez."

I directed Bella back into the village and towards the cafe.

※ Bella ※

“Excuse me? did you just say that you won a certificate in your third grade for being a young gentleman? And I have not been told this story until now, why?” thankful I could lighten the mood for my friend at such an awful time. I followed the directions provided by Jacob.

“You said, second best… that you knew a place with the second best hot chocolate. So, you know I will ask where the first best could be found now?”

※ Jacob ※

I laughed, telling any other girl about that would be embarrassing, but this was Bella... she was a bit of a nerd, so it was fine. "Yup." I dusted imaginary lint off my shoulder. "It was a Spotlight Award for the most respectful student." I bragged like it was my crowning achievement.

"Well, I may be underselling it as the best on the Rez... It may be the best in the State. And it can only be found in #SueClearwater's kitchen." I explained. Then told Bella where to pull in. I knew #Sue's hot chocolate came from a regular tub of cocoa. But she had to have some secret she was keeping from us all.

※ Bella ※

The sound of hit boys laughter warmed the soul. Keeping my eyes on the road, smiling with small sideways glances at him. He seemed so proud of this achievement, and so he should be.

“If I knew I had the good fortune of the company of such a wonderful young gentleman. I would  have brought out my best manors. How will I live with myself?” Even with everything upsetting him, he still found time to laugh. I could learn something from him.

“Oh. Sue? Really?” Thinking back on my visits. I’d never had hot chocolate. She knew I like my coffee so, assuming she gave me what I enjoyed. Parking the beast into the spot not far from where Jacob had asked me to go.

“Well, let’s see what the second-best hot chocolate in La Push tastes like?” Glancing over at the small diner in the Rez.

※ Jacob ※

"You are a very lucky woman to have the pleasure of my company." I grinned. "And your manners are just fine. A little rough around the edges but I think I can help you with that." I teased and nudged her with my elbow now that the truck was parked.

I unbuckled my belt and  noticed her looking around.

"This is a great place. It's family run for two generations and when school is out their ten-year-old daughter Gemma hangs around, talking to costumes and drawing pictures." I could see from her the place wasn't full... just a few of the tables had people sitting at them.

"Ready to head in?" I asked in case she still needed a second to recover from her encounter on the beach.

※ Bella ※

“Rude. So rude.” My body shifted a little by his playful nudge. Jacob had somehow managed to lighten the dark cloud we had both been under. “I will graciously, accept that your company is—”

Without completing the sentence I allowed his mind to fill in the blank himself. unclasping the belt, I took a steady breath.

“I am. Hundred percent ready. The place looks great.”

Add to it the background of the same family owning and maintaining such a pivotal part of community? I knew I should have come before.

Opening the door, it stuck a little  however nothing a shoulder nudge couldn’t handle I jumped down from the cab.

The chill in the air, sent another shiver through my chest and spine, making me rub my hands together.

Locking the door, as I felt my legs were still a little wobbly, which I contracted, by keeping my stride small.

When I pushed the glass and wooden door open, the ring of a bell announced our arrival to those who were enjoying a meal or just a coffee.

‘BELLA!!! Look sis… it’s BELLA!’

The voice I could recognise out of a crowd rang loudly in the diner. like a little thunder the child threw himself at me, if arms and legs, close to knocking me back off my feet.

‘What are you doing here?

Did you come to see me?

I mean us? Us… yeah… did you come to see us?

You must have been at the house… did you go to the house? Did Ma tell you here to find us? She must have.’

All the time he spoke, he had taken my hand and pulled me towards a table towards the back of the floor. Where I saw her.

‘Kid, would you slow down. Let Bells go. She’s not here to see us.’ Her eyes were bypassing me to Jacob ‘No… of course she…. JAKE!’ And the same lever of questions where now being asked of him. #Seth let me go to move beyond me giving me the space to move around the table to smile at #Leah.

“Hi…”

‘Hey.’

“It’s so good to see you out here.”  She shrugged her shoulders.

‘A wise woman told me; I have no reason to hide.’ This made me smile a little too. I had overheard part of this conversation she has with the beautiful woman.

“She is correct of course; I’ve been trying to call.”

‘I know. I needed some time.’ She finally looked up at me. and her beautiful amber eyes spoke so loudly, telling me a story I understood.

“May we join you?” I asked and then turned to Jacob. “Do you mind if we…” pointing down to the table #Leah was sat at.

‘YEAH. Please Jake. Please join us.’ The kid looked up at Jacob with Such admiration and longing.

※ Jacob ※

Was I meant to finish that sentence? How should I finish that sentence? My company was pleasurable?… Spirits no! A pleasure? That was kind of the same thing… nice? She got out of the truck before I had to answers! Thank the spirits!

I recognized Seth’s voice instantly! The kid was a little clingy on the rare occasion we hung out, normally when one of our parents visited the others. I was cool for a while; the hero worship thing… then it got a little annoy. But honestly, he was such a happy, optimistic kid. It was impossible to be mad or annoyed at him.

I watched him with Bella and really hoped that I didn’t sound like when I talked to her. I gave Leah and nod when she acknowledged me. She used the best friends with the twins… but she was always a little distant.

“Hey dude!” I grinned at him and clasped the hand he held out giving him a one-armed hug. He. Never. Stopped. Talking. Asking a lot of questions about Bella. I told him we were just hanging out, driving around. It was true, kinda… and there's no need to freak the kid out about Sam and the HMS gang (hall monitors on  steroids).

I was about to tell Bella sure let’s join them… wondering if Bella knew Sam was her ex… this might get awkward. But Seth started to beg. “Sure, sounds great!” I said.

‘Yes!!’ He actually fists pumped.  Seth was off again, telling me all about how his dad was showing him how to fix the car when broke down and one day he would build his own car just like me.

“Hold that thought… I wanna here all about. But a respectful gentleman doesn't  leave two ladies at a table without a hot beverage when it’s freezing outside.” I winked at Bella.

‘Oh… yeah, I knew that! I’ll go with you.’ Seth followed. ‘My dad always says just because a woman is independent doesn’t mean we can’t do little things to show we care. He always tells me cool things like that… I bet your dad does too… being chief and all.” he kept  going. I tried my best not to laugh and look attentive and interested. But this kid had boundless energy.

※ Bella ※

Sitting myself down across from #Leah, the both of us watched as the boys walked over to place an order.

‘I didn’t take you for a cradle, robber.’ Her fingers fidgeted with the empty cup before her.

“You are correct, Jacob and I are just friends. He’s been good to me. Just as Seth and you have.” My eyes came back to give her my full attention. “I’m not going to ask how you are.”

It was the one question I disliked the most. Because people never asked to actually find out. They wanted you to say you were fine, so they could move on.

‘Good, because I have no idea.’ She pushed the cup away.  The one thing about #Leah I had begun to understand is that she never lied, however, she always stopped short of the truth.

“I understand.” It was the truth.

‘I know you do zoops, as much as I wished you didn’t.’ Both of us turned to follow the sound of her bothers excited voice.

‘He really wanted to come out for a hot chocolate.’ She had a lightness in her voice now.

“Who could ever say no to him?” I smiled.

‘So, Jacob Black is buying us drinks?’ She sounded baffled.

“And cookies” Another thing about #Leah I loved. She didn’t really ask questions. She listened to those who wanted to speak. However, she never pried into your personal life.

‘Kid, would you give people a minute to answer, when you ask them a question.’ She called out to her brother.

‘By the spirits of our ancestors. I will need to talk to him about saying less and listening more.’ She has no malice in those words.

Anyone could see at first glance how different the two siblings were . #Leah silence and observing, and Little #Seth energetic, and talkative. “Don’t, he loves life and all that it has to offer. It’s an innocent time of his life. We should live through him vicariously.”

The boy has such a pure and sweet personality. I knew she would do anything for him, and would anyone who met him.

※ Jacob ※

I almost order four hot chocolates but, then I stopped them and asked what Leah's usual order was and got that. As soon as I order the cookies I was handed a platter of four side-plate-sized cookies and Seth's started to do a cookie-monster impersonation and  stopped    abruptly, looking self-conscious. I wished he worried less about what other people thought. Because he was the nicest kid I had ever met.

"Why don't you take the cookies over while I pay? It's not polite to keep a lady waiting... even if it's your sister." I nudged him with  my elbow and handed him the plate.

He set off to the table. When I join them I sat next to Bella and smiled at her. I didn't want to ask her if she was okay... she might not have wanted Leah and Seth to know about what happened at the beach s instead am looked at Leah  and smiled. "So how are you, Leah?"

※ Bella ※

#Leah and I watched her kid brother rushing over with a tray in his hands.

‘Slow down kid, there’s no rush.’ She rolled her eyes, however I could see the truth. Her worry of a mother, in the eyes of a sister. Moments like this I wished I had siblings. Until I remember who my mother is. Then I knew it was never going to happen.

“Thank you.” My eyes widened at the size of the cookies.

‘Welcome to the Rez, where they love to give you a bang for your Buck.’ #Seth sat down beside his sister. Whispering. ‘Jake paid for it all.’ And she nodded. ‘Don’t worry, I will pay him back.’ She messed his hair up making him all self-conscious, and still laugh.

“Thank you, Jacob.” Smiling as he came to sit next to me. My eyes darting to #Leah the moment he asked the question. At the same time her eyes came to find mine.  Not a word had been exchanged by us. But I heard her voice. ‘See I told you.’ And hoped she read my answer. ‘He really wants to know.’

Reaching out to place the cups before everyone I saw one was a dark coffee. And I looked questioningly to Jacob. However, #Leah took it. ‘I only really like my Ma’s hot chocolate. So that is mine. Thanks.’ She took cup, blew on the hot liquid before sipping. Then turn her attention to Jacob again.

‘I’m here. Which is a good step.’ Picking up my cup I held it in the palm of my hand is feeling the heat warming my cold self. She continues. ‘I heard you updated the ramp at the house. Da was proud of the work you did there. And at Swan house.’

I smiled, squeezing his arm next to me. “All three of the boys did  exquisite work. I really did not think the project through and would have been lost without them… without Jacob.”

She sat back, watching. Me. Watching Jacob. And sipped her coffee.

※ Jacob ※

I smiled at Bella's reaction to the cookies as I slid into the seat next to her and smiled at Seth's comment. "Just wait until you taste them."

I looked between the girls... clearly missing something. But I wasn't sure what it was. Then Leah's answer hit me like a stone. I'd put her in a really awkward position. In front of her little brother too. "Oh..." I was shocked at the subject change... but after putting my foot in my mouth I was willing to give it to her. "Well, the ramp was just a little repair. But the shed was great... Harry thought we did well."

I had to fight the flush that threatened in my cheeks... but the heat there told me that I was failing. "That's what friends and family are for... plus we used the photos and Quil's sketch to write up a report and got extra credit in the wood shop."

※ Bella ※

‘Stop blushing, take the complement for what it is. The dads on the rez are proud of you boys.’ Something cut I the words when #Leah said them, however I knew it hadn’t been towards Jacob. It felt as though it had been something missing in her life?

‘Two birds and all. Well done, with the extra credit. Your sisters wouldn’t have missed that trick too.’ she went on to say, then turned her eyes to me. ‘Take a bite zoop. See what you’ve been missing out of.’ She broke one of the cookies handing it to me, before taking a mouthful herself. It was perfect.

“Okay, I think I’m going to die happy if this is the last thing I ever eat.” I told them all. There was just the right amount of chocolate chips in each bite, it was firm on the outside with a gooey centre. Some sea salt sprinkled over the top, giving us the perfect bite.

‘Well, you are always so easy to place.’ #Leah rolled her eyes, but I knew she was teasing.

“The question is, will it be cheating if I attempt to recreate these for my home economics class? I’m not much of a baker, but cookies.. we have all made them at some stage, right?

※ Jacob ※

I pressed my lips together bad... I wondered if I would ever learn to control my emotions, or would they always    be written on my face like words on a page.

I chuckled at the mention of the twins. "#Rachel might be coming home for a little while..." I looked at Leah... and  then between her and Bella. Now I knew I was missing something... "I've heard some weird nickname in my life but that one..." I trailed off.

"Hey if I can use your Father's shed for extra credit I can't see why you couldn't try... They'll give never give up the recipe. But, I'm happy to be your taste tester when you try it out." I chuckled and broke my cookie, scooping up a little whipped cream before I took a bite.

'Me too!! and you should come over. Mom is an excellent baker I bet she could show me how to make amazing cookies. She's been teaching me to cook. She says cooking first and baking when I can make healthy meals for myself. But!!!' He beamed at Bella. 'If you need help with school I bet she'd teach us sweet things!'

※ Bella ※

#Leah’s lips pressed together, and her eyes narrowed. I wanted to tell her to leave it. That Jacob wasn’t trying to dig for information she wasn’t freely willing to share. It wasn’t in him to do that.

‘Yeah. Well. That’s the point of nicknames Kiddo. People give them to share a moment. It’s not for others to understand.’

I took some of the cream, copying Jacob. I’d never thought of mixing the two together. “Leah.” I shook my head. Thankful and relieved that she didn’t explain the meaning. I knew she wouldn’t. Turning to Jacob, with a half-smile. “It’s just a private joke. That’s all.”

The fact that she called me a zombie from the past year, had somehow become a running joke we both now understood.

“Oh. I couldn’t ask Sue to do even more.” Taking a bite, a sound I hadn’t heard before escaping with delight. “Why has no one ever told me to add cream to a cookie?”

#Leah sipped her coffee, watching us all silently. ‘Bella, mom won’t mind. Really. Maybe if Rachel is coming, we could all have a lesson?’ #Seth tugged on his sisters arm.

‘Maybe Kid. She may have plans.’ Then she  glanced back to Jacob. ‘It’s still mid-year. Why is Rach coming back from school?’ With a mix of confusion and concern in her futures.

※ Jacob ※

I raised a brow at the Kiddo... I was going to mention that I was, in fact, sixteen... but something about how she'd she was here earlier and that it was a start made me decide to let it go.

I smiled at Bella and then Leah... "I wasn't going to ask.. you should hear the  'Bry and # Quil..." I shook my head. I wasn't going to get back on the topic here. So, I jumped to the question about Rachel.

"I'm not sure... something about work-study or a study break." I knew what it was. Dad had her worried about me because I wouldn't stop trying to  find out what #SamUley was up to with #Embry and the others. But this was the line Rachel was using, so it was a version of the truth.

※ Bella ※

Tilting my head with a small smile. “I’m sure if their Nick names are adorable.”

Hiding the uncomfortable sensation of all that had taken place before we came here. It wasn’t my story to share with the Clearwater siblings. Also, Seth was too young for the topic. #Leah gave a curt, not offer head then took a bite of a cookie. Her eyes didn’t leave Jacob for a little while longer, had she picked up on the same thing as I had? He wasn’t lying, however…

‘Oh, it’ll so great to have Rachel back. She always gives me the best candy.’ #Seth spoke in between mouthfuls and slopes of his hot chocolate.

‘Well, Becc’s does too. But she makes me eat fruit too.’ Wrinkling his nose.’

“Fruit is good for you. You need you’re five pieces a day.” Pretending with my school teacher voice.

‘I mean…..Yeah….. I eat it. I do.’

※ Jacob ※

I chuckled at #Seth trust that boy to save you from an awkward conversation with his innocence. "Yeah, #Rachel always had more of a sweet tooth... But #Becca was right too. What is your favourite?" I asked #Seth...

It wasn't bragging to say I knew this kid looked up to me. It was obvious and it. If that meant I could encourage the kid to eat a little better... then why not?

"Mine is grapefruit... of pineapple... actually... I really like avocado lately, but I think what more of a vegetable. And berries... all the berries all the time. you can grab a handful and eat them no matter where you are or what you're doing."

I knew #Leah had to have heard about all the stuff going on with #Sam... did she know about #Embry too? Is that why she was still looking at me. I scooped up more cream onto my cook and took a bite.

※ Bella ※

Sitting back I watched in silence with #Leah, I could see her shoulders relaxed and a small smile like curve on her lips as Jacob spoke to #Seth.

‘Grapefruit? Really?’ The young boy made a face as though he has sucked on something tart. ‘It’s so sour. And it tastes…’ he was attempting to find the words. ‘Yuck.’

#Leah’s head spun. “Kid. We never say that to food. Food. All foods. Are a gift from the ancestors and the spirits. A blessing.’ She scolded him.

#Seth’s eyes dropped; his beautiful soft almond skin grew a hint of pink. ‘Sorry’ his voice dropped.

‘Not to me.’ She said, nodding her head across the table.

‘I’m sorry Jake. I didn’t mean it is yuck.’ The boys eyes met mine and I wink mouthing well done. To him for apologising.

※ Jacob ※

I smiled at #Seth… he was just being a kid. But correcting Leah in front of him felt like correcting a parent on of their Kid… maybe because my sisters had basically been my mom for a long time.

“It’s just not your favourite?” I smiled sipping my hot chocolate. “Well, that’s  okay. You should come over to my place some Tuesday. That when my aunt #Connie cooks. She can make entire desserts with tons of fruit and no sugar, and it tastes like real cake.”

I turned to Bella and smiled, not wanting her to feel left out of the conversation. “So… what’s verdict on the hot chocolate.”

※ Bella ※

#Seth’s face brightened up, his shoulders lifted, his eyes sparkled within the blink.

‘Really?’ His voice went up an octave. ‘Can I go?’ He turned to his sister holding his hands together like a pray.

She raised her eyebrow. And nodded her head once. ‘Someday when it’s okay  with all the grownups.’ She muttered something about never saying no to him.

And like that all was forgotten in the young boys eyes. He cheered. Hugged his sisters arm awkwardly and let go the moment she stiffened.

That was nice. #Leah had always been so attentive to her brothers needs before.

#Seth let go right away, as though he knew he shouldn’t have touched. And went back to his hot chocolate at the same time as I picked up mine.

“Uhmm..” mid sip I smiled nodding my head. “It’s really good. I can’t believe you guys all hide this from me.”

※ Jacob ※

“I’ll ask my Aunt and call you.” I smiled at #Seth. “And Collin is feeling better so I know he’d enjoy it. He finds it pretty hard to make friends.” I whispered and leaned over the table. “He kind of looks up to you…” I winked. “But you didn’t hear that from me.”

Seth beamed  and it made me smile. This kids happiness was contagious. A few minutes with him was all you needed after a bad day.

I laughed at Bells words. “You might feel differently when you leave… we’ll have to make you sing some paperwork… non-disclosure… iron clad vow of secrecy.” I smirked. “We only want very select townies to know about this hidden gem.” I joked of course, this was a family business, and we would send all the customers we could their way in support of them.

※ Bella ※

I could help but smile and feel a sense of warmth towards Jacob in this moment. The way he gave #Seth time, to help the boy feel welcomed and seen. It was the kindest thing he could do. And without even waiting a beat.

My gaze moved to #Leah, whom I knew to never miss - a thing, and I was correct. She sipped her coffee taking the exchange without comment.

“I’m sorry. I was not told I had to sign on a dotted line. I have a plan for a front-page article describing each and every taste tone of his drink and cookie.” No.. I had no plans. However, seeing the glee in #Set/ eyes at the banter made this worth it.

“Seth, do you recall anything about the is?” He shook his head finishing his cookie, and I pushed half on mine towards him.

‘No. Bella is right. You didn’t say anything Jake.’ Hearing about this  boy idolising him, #Seth has straightened up. Attempting to be fair in his comments. It was so cute to see.

※ Jacob ※

I laughed at Bella and #Seth. "Really?! You're going to team up on me with her?" There was nothing but laughter in my voice. “That's the trick you see.” l snickered at him. "You get them hooked on the grub... Then hit them with the paperwork.”

I grinned a little when #Seth looked proud. It was true. My cousin had trouble making friends and people gravitated to #Seth... I could see why a sink kid would look up to someone like him.

※ Bella ※

‘She is pretty cool, you are too. Just not as much.’ #Seth waggled his brows winking at me. His sister scoffed and rolled her eyes, however in good nature.

“I’m hoping my intelligence has something to do with it too. No matter how good a marketing strategy Jacob has.” taking another sip of the hot chocolate, immersed in the flavour as it coated my tongue with a burst.

“Jokes aside. This drink is amazing.” Out of the corner of my eyes, I saw a little girl running over to stand by our table. She placed a picture on the table and ran away.

※ Jacob ※

"Well, I can't really contest that because that would be a lie." I scowled jokingly at #Seth. #Leah just pulled her signature eye roll move.

"Of course, it is Bells.” I smiled at her. "I still plan on taking you up on the study date for English lit.”

Leah turned and looked interested suddenly. 'Are you struggling in English class?' She asked. 'I can find you a tutor if you need one.'

‘Sis!’ #Seth burned beet red. Embarrassed that his sister was so keen on helping his friend keep his grades up. I saved him with a polite nod. "Thanks, Leah. I'm doing ok. And I have Bella's awesome bookworm brain to help me out. I'll keep it in mind though.”

I turned my attention back to Bella. "I told you... We do everything better on the Rez.”

※ Bella ※

I couldn’t help but smile to the little hiding behind a servers apron. She was beautiful with her jet black curls.

#Seth, #Leah, and Jacob were lost in their conversation as I placed my finger on the picture pulling it before #Seth so he didn’t miss the small gift. “of course, I’m happy to help. I turned to the two Clearwater siblings. “You’re both welcome to join too. We could then them into study nights? Make sure we all do our homework?”

#Seth jumped a little in his seat. ‘Yes. That’s sounds good.’ And #Leah looks shocked at his enthusiasm. ‘Ma and I cannot get you to sit down for more than a hour just to finish your sentence or reading, but now you want to take part in study nights?’

The kid blushed, looking down at the A4 sheet of paper. Then he found the little girl smiling. ‘Thank you Gemma.’

※ Jacob ※

I had been so engrossed with the conversation that I had totally missed Gemma leaving a drawing on the table for #Seth.  I smiled... because Bella didn't.

I chuckled at Leah. "Studying with friends is always different. Every day after school #Quil, #Em..." I stopped almost  choking on my best friend's name.

I cleared my throat and shook it off. "We... uh... do our homework together at my place." It was mostly to make l sure did his and focused... I swear that boy has undiagnosed ADHD.

I peered over at the picture and grinned at Gemma. "Nice work Gem... looks exactly like him!" I praised the little girl.

※ Bella ※

Reaching over I squeezed Jacob’s arms before continuing to take another piece of a cookie. Attempting to not dare attention, however, #Leah didn’t miss a single point.

There were regrets from me. He had been through a lot today, and right now I couldn’t help the feeling  he could do with a friend.

“Quil should join us too.” I offered.

‘Someone might think you hate being alone.’ #Leah offered before looking at the wall with a clock on it. ‘Come on kid, I best get you home before Da comes looking.’

The sibling stood up. ‘Let me know when you are doing this study group thing. I’ll make sure the kid is there.’ She messes up #Seth’s hair.

“It’s a deal, I will most definitely call.” I told her.

※ Jacob ※

I rested my hand lightly ok Bella’s when she gave my arm a squeeze. Grateful for the fact she was here and she came with me today even though she hardly know #Embry.

“Hell yeah.” It wasn’t hard to fake the Enthusiasm #Quil loved tutoring and if an hour with #Seth contagious  happiness was making me feeling better it would surely give my #Quil a boost too. “Can’t have a study session without the Maths and Science nerd.” I chuckled. “She we have a history nerd.”  I pointed to myself. “An English nerd, and maths nerd were sorted.”

I looked up at those words reminded me of #Embry. The kid who never went home unless he knew his mom was from work. He hated it… but I suppose him hating being alone was still true. He was with #Sam all the time. “I don’t there’s anything with that.” I spoke. “As long as you’re keeping good company.”

※ Bella ※

‘All the nerds in La Push had to be in my vicinity.’ #Leah rolled her eyes, nodding to Jacob and then me.

“You wouldn’t have it any other way.” Knowing she would. She performed a hand gesture the. Walked off towards the counter, saying something before leaving.  Tuning to  #Seth who was chasing after his sister shouting and waving his goodbyes. “See you soon Seth.”

I half smiling. “Thank you. You really made #Seth’s day, Jacob. I had no idea the boy idolised you.” As I spoke, two fresh cups of hot chocolates and this time fries were brought to the table. “Oh. We didn’t order anything.” I told the lady with a sweet smile.

‘Leah asked me to bring these over. She paid for them too.’ Setting them down before leaving us.

“She doesn’t let anyone do anything nice for her.” I muttered underneath my breath.

※ Jacob ※

I chuckled at #Leah... I knew she'd gotten good grades in school. She was a perfectionist. When the Clearwater  Siblings stood up  to leave reached out to high five #Seth. "See you soon, #Seth." I smiled at him.

Then I turned back to Bella and shrugged. "He's always been a  good kid." I took the last mouthful of the hot chocolate that had cooled enough not to have more than a sip. "I used to find it annoying when he was younger, and he followed us around... but looking back now I know that was a little mean. But he's older now... even if he still  talks a lot." I teased.

The drinks and fries arrived. I shook my head with a grin. "Or... did we give her the opportunity to do something nice for us, by doing something nice for her?" I smirked at my own cleverness and took a bite of a fries.

※ Bella ※

“We did indeed. However, she will never admit to doing so.” Taking one of the hot crisp fries in my fingers and having a bite. “This just means I take a pizza with me the next time I go to visit.” Adding while dusting my fingers free of the salt.

“I love that he speaks for the  world. He can be a life saver at times.” Saying sentences before realising what it was is said. “I… ugh.. I mean. Sometimes it’s nice to fill the silence.” Was that any better?

I gave up. “Youngsters will find their hero’s eventually, even if the heroes are determined to  push them away. Seth Clearwater doesn’t know how to take no for an answer, and he doesn’t hold a grudge either. The boy is too much of a kind soul really.”

※ Jacob ※

I chuckled and dunked more fries in the ketchup. "Me too... There is something freeing about being around someone who says everything they think. There's no pretence, you never have to wonder if they are being honest or not." There was a lot of dishonesty in my life right now, #Embry was keeping stuff from me... even my own Dad. I knew, he knew something about #Sam that he wasn't telling me.

I chuckled as #Bella tried to find the right words. "I get it." I told her, reaching for a sachet of mayonnaise and mixing it into the ketchup. "But I'm not  sure I could be called anyone's hero." I laughed a little. "But trying to do homework with him will be really interesting."

※ Bella ※

“We all have to consider all the time we must place in homework every day. I mean I complete mine the day it is assigned. That way I’m always on top of things. However, doing so with friends will be good for us all.”

All my attention focused on the one action. Jacob Black’s hand going for the mayonnaise, and then adding it to the ketchup. There was No way in the world.

“You… mix them up?” Pointing to the concoction before us, a pale shade of pink as the two came together. “Ketchup and Mayonnaise, together, as one?”

※ Jacob ※

I chuckled… Bella and I were more alike than I had thought. “I try don't same… but I dare you to try to convince #EmbryCall to do maths on a Friday afternoon and not at 7 am on a Monday morning before class.” I laughed but the casual mention of my friend brought the memories crashing back… I was glad she'd given Mr something else to focus on. I glanced at my pink blood and then at her.

“What? You don't like mayonnaise? I may need to rethink this friendship!” I teased her.

※ Bella ※

The headmistress tone from my voice dropped, with the mood returning to a sombre tone (in my mind at least).

“Last week I’d have said challenge accepted. Not sure he wanted to be in the same room as me today.” Shaking the feelings off because this wasn’t about me. It was about my friend. So, I squeezed his arm and then poked it. Turning back to that jovial, teasing tone once again.

“ Mayonnaise... yes, I like it. However, a ketchup girl with fries. There is nothing better in my opinion. But... it is just my opinion.”

Elbowing Jacob in the side. “You? I believe I’m the one who is more on the fence with this friendship now, thank you so very much!”

※ Jacob ※

"He’s not himself.” I said, quieter now. "He isn't exactly the politest guy you will ever meet. But he isn't like that either.

"Not liking mayo on your fries...I can forgive that... " I smirked. " But have you ever tried this magical concoction?” I pointed to the pink mess on the plate. Glad for the change in subject.

Grabbing a few more fries, I mixed even more together and popped them into my mouth. "So good."

※ Bella ※

I disliked this feeling, the feeling of not being able to help those who love. More so I disliked Sam and his gang. I know I didn’t know these people. However, there had to be something wrong here. The way the boys all watched Sam, not moving, or speaking without the go ahead from the man.

Half smiling Because I didn’t wish to share anything I had been thinking with Jacob. I couldn’t stand him being hurt.

“I’ve never seen anyone do this.” Pointing my finger over to the blood like mess. “However, I also won’t judge without trying it first.” taking a couple of fries in my fingers.

“May I?” I asked before dipping them in.

※ Jacob ※

I see her trying to rack her brains to figure out a way to fix this whole mess with #Embry. But I knew this was up to me, it needed to be someone that knew him. But for some reason, it felt nice to have someone want to help this badly. Just that fact alone made me feel better. I bowed my head in mockery of old-school manners and smirked. “You may! And prepare to have your mind blown!” I chuckled. I mean… it was good, but mind-blowing might be an exaggeration.

※ Bella ※

“Why thank you young sir.” Bowing my head as I imagined Miss Bennett may have, before dipping the fires and taking a bite.

The flavour… well… it was smooth thanks to the Mayo and tangy thanks for the catch up, it felt a little different in the mouth.

“Okay…” wiping my  fingers on the napkin, whilst I continued to chew.

“I actually like it; I don’t want to. However, it really is palatable…. I’m astounded… cookies, hot chocolate, this dipping sauce. It’s all delicious. Thank you, Jacob.”

※ Jacob ※

I chuckled; she was really into that British mannerism stuff. It was good to know if I even needed to make her smile. I stored away that piece of information for use later.

“Palatable?” I laughed. “Sounds like with write in the box for pet medication. But will take it!”

As  plate of fries diminished, I knew we would have to talk about it sooner rather than later. “You feeling okay now? After… everything. Any dizzier spells or… whatever that was?”

※ Bella ※

My hands froze whilst I wiped the reminder of the salt off my fingers. He had noticed that? My glance lifted to meet his as I took Jacob in.

“You noticed that did you?” Setting the used napkin down, I finished off the cold dregs of the hot chocolate in the cup. “For someone so young. And a boy. You truly do not miss a thing around you, do you?”

Sighing deeply, I nod me head a little. “I think I needed to eat, and the cold. You know how much I like the cold and rain.”

What other reason could it be? Even as I said the words, I didn’t believe it, however, also couldn’t explain it too.

※ Jacob ※

I laughed softly. “I keep telling you… I am wise beyond my years.” O took a good look at her… but… it was hard to tell with Bella. Her skin was always a few shades whiter than most white people... Even the ones that people who spend their lives in dreary Forks.

She never covers with makeup to make herself look tan… so when a hint pink flushed her cheek she could tell, or when the cold reddened her nose. I liked it… her skin was… she was… so pretty and I was staring.

“Thats good.” I stared into the empty cup like it might swallow me  and save me from my own awkwardness. “But if it happens again, you should see a doctor. Dizzy spells like that are no joke, trust me. It's better to be safe than sorry.”

※ Bella ※

“You do, and it is high time I began to believe you Jacob Black.” My eyes found him attempting to hide in plain sight, so I nudged him attempting to smile.

“Okay Doctor Black… I will do as ordered.” My voice set to wistfully move on from the topic.

“What now?” Pointing my chin to his empty cup. “Would you like me to drive you home?”

※ Jacob ※

She was still holding something back, but I didn’t want to push… okay, well I did WANT to but I knew I shouldn’t. So, I didn’t.

“I can drive you home if you still aren’t feeling good? I can call #Quil and he’ll come pick me up in his mom’s car.”

She seemed okay driving from the beach. But that was just through the village. The he road back to Forks was longer.

※ Bella ※

Shaking my head vigorously. “Don’t be silly, I’m not taking you all the way to Forks and making poor Quil come out too. That’s out of the question.” Motioning to the empty dishes on the table before us.

“A sugar rush from all of this, and the fries have giving me a boost  it’s not a long drive away. And it’s not as though Charlie will be waiting for me when I arrive home. So, I can take my time.”

Going back to an empty house never used to make me pause for thought, however lately the emptiness felt like it was rushing out to get me. But I  tell anyone, especially #Charlie. He felt guilty enough about having to work late and going fishing with his friends.

“Anyway. You must have homework or chores you should be getting on with. I don’t want Billy thinking I’m a bad influence on you.”

※ Jacob ※

I shook my head. “I don’t know how it worked in Arizona… but around here friends like to do favours for friends.” I chuckled. “It wouldn’t be a problem, but if you’re sure…” Then I stopped and looked at her. “Is #Charlie still working? Well… Theres no point going home to an Empty house. You could come hang out with me and Dad if you want… Better sitting hope alone, right?”

※ Bella ※

“Arizona?”

Dropping my eyes to hide my embarrassment. How could I tell him that I really didn’t have friends until I came to Forks. How to tell him that he should understand just how important he is to so many people, that they would drop things for him.

How did I say, I hadn’t made the time of the effort to gain such friendships? #Renée had been a full-time relationship for me. “Uhm… I wouldn’t want to outstay my welcome. I’m sure you and Billy have things you’d rather be doing, other than entertaining me.”

I nudged him with my elbow  as a thanks. It had to be said how easy it always seemed for Jacob, to think of others. This boy genuinely cared. “Come on you little delinquent. Let’s get you home before your dad calls me a bad influence.”

※ Jacob ※

l felt an instant rush of guilt I thought she'd chosen to come here from Arizona. Maybe problems at school factored in? Either way, she was not ready to want about it.

If I respected her privacy, then maybe one day she would share things without hesitation. I should probably  use that logic on #Embry too, but I knew him. He wasn't one to bottle things he said everything that popped into his head.

"You could never outstay our welcome. You may be put to work come dinner time, though.” I chuckled. "And I think dad misses having girls in the house, so you would always be welcome.”

I stood up and stopped by Gem’s table for a high-five on the way out to the truck.

※ Bella ※

Smiling I gave the young girl a small wave as I passed by her table. Seeing how Jacob interacted with her, his willingness to share his time so willingly. This boy came as a gift to those who came across him.

“If helping with dinner is a Pre-requisite... I think we have a deal.” pushing the door over a gust of wind blew directly through my clothes and unzipped coat making my hackles rise. Quickly I rectified the situation, taking my keys out.

“Billy must really miss having a full house?” I asked climbing into the truck to turn it on right away with the heat blasting through it was cold again from being still all this time.

※ Jacob ※

I grinned... I hadn't expected her to change her mind. When she made up her mind she stuck to it, I just wanted her to know she was always welcome. I knew some people didn't mind being alone, I had a feeling Bella was one of them. But that didn't mean you shouldn't seek out  company when they wanted it. Or needed it.

I nodded climbing up into the passenger side the blast of cold air felt even colder than normal... and I was used to the noisy stream this beast made if you forget to turn the heater off.

"I think some of it is guilt... not that suggesting he doesn't miss the twins. But with them gone a lot of the chores are up to me... he thinks I have too many responsibilities... but it is not like he's a slob or anything. Mostly I cook and clean and #SueClearwater and #AuntConnie help out too."

※ Bella ※

I kept my concentration on what I was doing, pulling out of the parking lot, checking for a clear road before pulling out towards the Black’s home.

At the same time nodding my head whilst listening to my friend and watching my speed and the vehicles coming towards me, “I can see why Billy would feel like that. It is his prerogative as your dad, Jacob.” I’d seen that same look in #Charlie’s eyes so often.

“As long as you have support, and it’s what you want to do.” Hearing #Sue’s name did not surprise at all. The lady has been a god send for my family too. Her whole family were.

The dark clouds opened to let rain fall hard on the roof of my beast. Turning the wipers on, a ‘V’, formed between my eyebrows with my level of concentration.

※ Jacob ※

"I know he feels like he should be the one doing all that stuff, but life doesn't always follow the path we think it should... and I wouldn't want anyone else doing it. At least... not all the time. I have people to help when I need to ask."

I leaned forward in my seat as the  rain poured down in sheets. "Damn... the drizzle got hardcore pretty fast."

※ Bella ※

If #Charlie hadn’t drilled in the fact that the driver needs to look at the road all the time. This would have been a moment when I would really look at Jacob Black.

“How can someone so young, have suck a hold of life?” The question wasn’t meant to be spoken aloud. However, now that it was. I wouldn’t take it back.

“It’s how I feel about taking care of things for #Renée and #Charlie.” Sighing I reached over to clear my side mirror. “The weather loves to keep me on my toes here.”

※ Jacob ※

I chuckled. "I'm really not that much younger than you, you know." I had said the words without any other thought than just that. I was barely two years younger than her.

"I do remember #Charlie mentioning that your mom was a little...." I tried to think of a better word  he used. "Free-spirited." I laughed. "I bet that made for an interesting childhood."

I looked at the sky again. "Maybe it's a good thing you are staying for dinner... Hopefully, the weather will get a better."

※ Bella ※

I said the words at the same time has Jacob. “Free-spirited?” However, mine was a question to see if it was how #Charlie described his ex-wife. And he did.

Half smiling, I nod my head once. “Yes, it’s the best way to explain her. I think you would like her if you met her, she’s really laid back and easy going. She’s the one who always tries to make me skip school to go on a road trip.” I half laughed. “We have these tees we collected over the years.”

Glancing up at the sky. “I guess things happen for a reason. We need to stop off at the store.” seeing it coming up. “I need to grab a few things.”

※ Jacob ※

I chuckled when Bella came to the same conclusion as me. I Looked over at her when she said she needed to come to the store...

"Who on their mind comes here to go shopping when they could all the choice of Forks?" I laughed because really wasn't a notable improvement. And at we had the Farmer's market once a week.

 "Do you need directions into the village?" I had to admit I was a little curious about why she needed to go shopping just to come to my place for the evening.

※ Bella ※

“Someone who just thought about it, and now needs to go.” Clicking my tongue at Jake.

“Stop being so judgmental Jacob Black.” The comment was made in jest of course, this boy was the least judge mental person I’d met other than #Charlie.

Chewing on my bottom lip as it occurred to me, I’d not been into the heart of the village since I’d begun coming to visit. The Clearwater home, or the Black home, or the beach were the only places.

“Uhmm…. Yes please. Some directions wouldn’t go amiss.”

※ Jacob ※

I laughed and teased her. "Well, aren't you just full of ironclad logic. I will apologise with my famous Bolognese for my judgemental behaviour." I laughed.

I directed Bella turn by turn into the village.  "You can't miss it, it's the only store with a neon sign over the door."

※ Bella ※

“I’m a very logical person, I will have you know.” As soon as I say it, I shook my head. “Okay. Fine. I’m not. However, it’s the taking part which counts in the end.”

Being guided by Jake wasn’t hard. Soon enough we were parked outside of the bright neon sign. 

“This is cute”

※ Jacob ※

I chuckled. “I mean I think you are… you just aren't… you know, constrained by it. You are still creative and funny, don't take yourself too seriously. Well balanced, I guess.” Was I giving away too much?

“Yeah, it’s enough to survive on. At least in between the weekly  farmers market. Like most things around here it's been in the same family for generations.”

I looked out the window bracing myself for the spring to the door. “Ready?” I asked like it was a challenge.

※ Bella ※

My eyes found Jacob so fast. “Would you like to write my endorsement for my school yearbook, by any chance? I pay well in rides and helping out with homework!”

Looking to the store on the others side of the rain we would need to run though. “I haven’t been to the farmers market here.” Making a mental note to visit it soon.

“Okay. Let’s do this.” Pushing all my willpower into my body to open the door, close it and run towards the door.

“Oh crap!” I felt my feet going out from under me as soon as I was in front of the store and my truck.

※ Jacob ※

"Really? That's what want your yearbook to say? She didn’t take herself too seriously!” Laughed. "But you should check it out... they have a stall with the best cheese you will ever taste."

I ran to the store just a few steps behind Bella. before I knew it she was tilting backwards... limbs everywhere. Faster than I knew I could move and caught her under her arms. "Geez... Bells." I just about stopped her before her butt hit the wet pavement.

※ Bella ※

My chest was heavier, just as it had been on the beach. My mind honestly felt like it had vacated and then came crashing down when strong arms came from nowhere to catch me.

“What… where… how?” Confused with the mystery of how my body reacted and then Jacob… “I… Uhm… I’m so sorry Jacob. Are you okay?” Correcting myself as quickly as I could.

 “Come on. We are getting soaked.” Straightening myself up, grabbing Jacob’s hand to pull him along. Hoping to hide my embarrassed.

※ Jacob ※

"It's okay... Just a clumsy moment..." I helped her to right herself. Then she grabbed my hand and dragged me inside. "I think you really to quit running... especially in the rain." I chuckled.

"Me?" I asked, incredulous. "I'm fine... Are you okay? I hope I  did grab you too  hard? I figure I was an option than the pavement." I still wasn't quite sure how I managed it. I looked back to where she almost fell trying to recreate the slip in my head.

※ Bella ※

“Yeah….” Multiple thoughts about what happened and could have happened invaded my mind, however I waved them off. “Maybe it’s time to retire  from running. I’ve been telling my teaches for years.”

With one last glance back to the place where I would have landed, I let go of his hand, and shook the rain lingering on my shoulders.

“I would rather you than the cold, wet pavement. Thank you.” Pushing the door to the store open, we were greeted by a kind face. ‘Well.. hello.’

※ Jacob ※

I laughed a little relieved. "True... I just hope I didn't grab you too hard. You seem to do enough damage to yourself without any help." I teased... but I was starting to see her clumsiness was more than just the odd stumble or spill.

I smiled ad followed her inside, wiping my feet on the mat in front of the door. I beamed as we were greeted. "Hey, Joy." I turned to Bella. "Bella... This is #JoyAteara. #Quil's mom... Joy... This is Bella Swan."

'Oh!! This is the young lady that has all my favourite Boys scrambling for her attention?' #Joy grinned cheekily. I coughed and rubbed the back of my neck shyly.

※ Bella ※

My shoulders had felt a hold, but nothing more. Why would Jacob believe he may had hurt me wasn’t clear right now. That was until I went to shrug my wet coat, so I didn’t drip water in the store floor.

A sharp twinge jolt made me stop and bite down on my lip trying to smile at the woman before me. My hands half reached out when i heard her. I could see #Quil’s eyes and smile looking back to me. And the open demeanour.

“Oh… Uhm… I’m…” what did one say to such things? “Good afternoon, Mrs Ateara. I’m not sure of that.” My eyes darting to  Jacob and back to her. “Your son is a dear friend, and such an incredible young man. He was such a help with my fathers shed. I’d have been so lost without them all.”

Deflection to how well her son is brought up had to work, right?

※ Jacob ※

#Joy laughed. ‘Yes, he is. Good boy… when he minds his manners.’ #Quil’s mother was well aware of her son’s flirty nature. She put a hand on my shoulder. ‘That’s what this is for, keeps the other two… polite.’ She smiled. ‘You’re very welcome to our little village Bella, Jake will you show her around while I ring up some customers?’

“Sure thing…” I smiled and turned to Bella. “So what are we looking for?”

※ Bella ※

“Oh. Jacob does the same for me too. And thank you.” Taking a step to the side to made room for #Joy to continue with her work, I pushed my hands into my pockets.

“Oh.. Uhm… cooking chocolate, eggs, flour, powdered sugar, some vanilla?” Looking around my eyes fell on the grocery baskets, so I picked one up. “Are you or Billy allergic to nuts?” Chewing on my lips as another customer smiles at me walking past.

※ Jacob ※

I grinned at Bella. "Told ya I won awards for my politeness." I chuckled.

"What are you baking?" I asked her, really curious now. I had learned to be a decent enough cook looking after dad and trying to make sure he had well-balanced meals that kept his diabetes in check  but, baking was still beyond me. But luckily the ladies or the reservation had that part covered.

I led #Bella through the store to the aisle she needed.

※ Bella ※

Without answering I nudged my elbow into the side of my friend.

“As you’re cooking dinner, I thought I could take of dessert? It’s just a simple brownie recipe I saw on line. If I use a rich dark chocolate, a rip banana, and honey. Then Billy can have a one square too. what do you think?” Billy had in the past sneaked some pie or cake at ours when Jake wasn’t there. It’s why I thought of looking up some recipes to easy bakes to try.

“And trust me, I’m not great at the baking. However, brownies can’t go wrong can they.”

I could feel #Joy’s eyes following us. So, I turned my head, to find her smiling and waving while speaking to a woman I didn’t know. Waving back my attention returned to the job at hand.

※ Jacob ※

I smiled at #Bella of course she had thought about Dad's health. "Dad always reserves his sweet treats exclusively for baked goods... so I think you have a winning idea there."

I chuckled. "Well, neither am I... but I find that YouTube can solve most problems... and there one  in the living room where the Wi-Fi works."

That might have been an exaggeration... there were about three spots. I glanced at where Bella was waving. "#Joy is great. She teases a lot but she's good fun."

※ Bella ※

“Exactly. What did the world do before YouTube?” Gathering the few items necessary and placing them into the basket I lead the way back towards #Joy and the counter.

“I can see where Quil gets it from too. He definitely has parts of his mom visible. Now that I have met her.”

‘Did you find everything you needed Bella?’ #Joy took out a paper grocery bag, ringing the items up.

“Yes, thank you Mrs Ateara.” I said.

‘Please, call me Joy.’ She glanced up at me with a wink. Jake here will tell you. I’m not a stuffy old bat.’ This made me smile and redden.

※ Jacob ※

I smiled… “Yeah, his grandfather says that he's got his mother’s looks and his father's personality.” I laughed. We just took his word it bones of us knew for sure.

“They live with Old Quil down by the docks.” I told her as we walked up to the counter and Joy checked us out.

“Thanks, Joy.” I smiled at her, chuckling at her comment to Bella. 

Then I followed her out to their again. Taking the bags because Bella was struggling to walk today, without added burdens. “At least the rain eased up a tiny bit.” It definitely had not eased up.

※ Bella ※

My lips quirked up into a smile. (I’d begun doing it ‘smiling’, a lot more around La Push and these boys. They were good for the souls.)

“They must have some amazing views by the docks.” Looking up to the dark sky and the rain still coming down.

Pushing my hands into my pockets at first, and then I thought better of it. I would require my hands if my feet gave out on me. So, they came out as I walked as fast as I dared towards the truck.

“If you say so Jacob, however, please don’t be offended if I disagree with you.” Thankful he has taken  bags for me. Once inside I pushed the hood of my coat off my head and shivers.

The engine on, heat on full blast.

“Right, let’s take you home.” Pulling out of the parking lot, I pointed towards the left and then Right. “Which way do I need to go?” Asking sheepishly.

※ Jacob ※

Bella didn't run to the truck I grinned. She had learned the hard way. "Yeah, it's pretty good but... there are hardly any fishing boats anymore... but you see most of the bay. We climb up on the roof sometimes when there is a full moon, and the clouds aren't too thick.

I climbed into the truck and settled the groceries on my lap.

"Maybe it's just that I'm more accustomed to this kinda of weather. The Desert Girl has a low tolerance for cold and rain."

※ Bella ※

“It’s sounds heavenly.” I could picture the three boys growing up together young children climbing up to watch the night sky.

“Excuse me, however, I am not ashamed to say I like the heat, the sun, the warm air, and the lack of lush greenery surrounding me at all times.” Shivering just as I said the last word.

“I had hoped to have Climatize to this” pointing out the window. “However, my body, mind, and souls are fighting it tooth and nail. With my blessing... may I add.”

※ Jacob ※

“It’s a lot of fun.” I admitted happily.

I thought about what she said. “I mean I love the sun and the heat… but I don’t think if like to live somewhere without tress and rivers and free everywhere. I’d love to see it, but just for a visit. But I guess that’s the human we like the known and for you that’s… well the desert.” I chuckled.  “And I would be be the same if I went to Phoenix… because a hot day here has nothing on the hot day there.”

※ Bella ※

“I guess, I mean… I’ve not thought so deeply about why I miss the heat and the sun. Just that I do.”

For a short time, a blink of an eye is contemplated moving back with mom and #Phil, when #Charlie had come to his wits end with me. Because it would have been easier for him. However, I’d fought them.

“I’m conflicted with it now. Mom is asking me to pick a school closer to her when I graduate…. She misses me…. So, maybe you’ll come for a visit if I do, huh?”

Trying to become jovial with the possibility of the move.

※ Jacob ※

I grinned at her. "I think I'd feel the same if I left here. But I don't think that's the reason I don't want to leave... missing home in kind of a normal human condition."

I shrugged a little. "I suppose you should decide based on the school, right? How good it is... if it Teaches the course, you want and all that? right?" I didn’t like the idea of Bella leaving... but her not getting what she dreamed of? That was far worse.

※ Bella ※

Scoffing a laugh, one of those it’s worn as a mask for far too long. “Yes, of course. Of course, it’s about where it is best for me to go.”

Keeping my eyes on the road as the wipers swag back and forth over my windshield. “What you, still thinking about an internship or  trade school?”

Trying to think back to this conversation I had with him and his two friends now so long again. That had been his answer then.

※ Jacob ※

“So maybe don’t worry too much about where and focus on the best school…unless it’s a place you really don’t want to be… like I hear Seattle is kind of dangerous at night.”

Bella seemed to know where she is going now. “Um… yeah not really thinking about it. I have guy willing to me on as long as I graduate high school and it will be six months away of the trade school part. But #SueClearwater we can figure something out for Dad while I’m gone.

※ Bella ※

“Yeah, Charlie wasn’t best pleased when the brochure from Washington state came in the post. He’s worried about the crime rates there.” Nodding me head as I spoke. “He is trying to find a missing boy who went to school there. The mom and dad have been trying to find answers however, the police in Seattle haven’t helped much. They say the boy is over 18, so is ‘most like out doing what boys do.’ Charlie is taking this one hard.”

Tuning down the road going to the black house now, the rain easier enough for me to ease the grip on the wheel. “Six months away from home?” I had to smile; Jake was trying to plan ahead to make sure #Billy was looked after. We were so dissimilar after all. “You’re going to graduate, aren’t you? So, it’s a sure thing?”

My brows pulled together as the Blacks red house came into view. “Is that Charlie’s cruiser parked up in front of your home?” What was my dad doing here, I thought to myself.

※ Jacob ※

"I get it. I mean, he would probably love for you to be close by... but..." I inhaled loudly. "Yeah, he asked us to help put up posters around the village. But... I doubt anyone here has seen him. And I know that happens... kids go off to college and stop getting in touch... but  I think that a dangerous road when someone is missing... even if it turns out to be true. People need to be more like #Charlie and try to find them... not make excuses."

I nodded. "Oh yeah graduating was always the plan... but I think he used it as an incentive... Rez  High Schools have the highest dropout rate of any other demographic in the state. So... the grownups around here really try to encourage us to stay in school."

I leaned forward when I spotted the cruiser too. "Did you leave a note or something? Telling him you were coming  here?"

※ Bella ※

How could I not have a sense of pride in my father and what he did for his community? Add to the fact when others spoke with such a high regard and respect for him, I knew #Charlie was where he was meant to be.

Once maybe I held it against him for not leaving with my mother and I, however that feeling disappeared as I grew up to better understand #Renée, I knew they made the correct decision in the end.

“Huh? Oh… Uhm… no I didn’t.” Knowing I should have and that it was silly of me not to when I knew #Charlie would worry.

“But he has been  working late all this week, and I didn’t like he would be home before me…” my logic had made sense to me at the time.

As soon as I parked up beside the cruiser, the door to the red house opened. The shadow back lite by the light of our two fathers came forward before them.

#Charlie gave me a small wave and smiled. When #Billy spoke. ‘I gave Charlie a call, he’s been working too hard. So, I told him to come for dinner. We can watch the game while you kids do kids things.’

※ Jacob ※

When Dad and #Charlie stepped out onto the porch at the top of the ramp, I wondered if #Leah and #Seth had told #Sue they saw us and word got to Dad… who then… “Yup!” I whispered with a grin when Dad said that he called #Charlie.

“Just in time!” I called up to them. “I was  going to make my world-renowned Bolognese for dinner, and Bella is even going to make dessert.” #Charlie didn’t look surprised; he’d been here before, and he had eaten my cooking more than once. And I knew that #Bella had taken on a lot of the kitchen duties in the Swan house too.

‘Two teenagers sharing a kitchen?’ #Charlie flashed a crooked smile. ‘This will be fun.’ He chuckled.

“Two very mature, responsible teenagers!” I scoffed.

※ Bella ※

‘Sure, responsible.’ #Charlie teased.

‘Don’t disagree with the cooks, Charlie. We want to eat tonight.’ #Billy joked.

As I walked up the ramp towards the men with a paper grocery bag in my hand, reaching out I squeezed #Billy’s shoulder making eye contact. Thanking him in our way for making this happen.

His smile told me ‘Don’t worry, I got you and my friend kid.’ Making the prickling sensation at the back of my eyes threaten to let my emotions run wild. Blinking my eyes a few times, I leant into my dad as his arm came around my shoulder, taking the bag from me while kissing the top of my head.

‘You okay, Bells?’ He whispered into my hair.

“Yeah dad, I am more than okay.” It was the honest truth.

He glanced back to look at Jacob, I couldn’t see the look he gave the boy. However, his body remained relaxed as we walked into out of the cold.

※ Jacob ※

I chuckled at the dads and rolled my eyes as we walked inside. “Keep it up #Charlie and I’ll give you the supermarket cheese instead of the pepperjack from the farmers market.”

I heard Dad scoff behind me. ‘Hey, don’t waste the good cheese on the townies!’ He teased.

#Charlie gave me a smile that was more like a silent thank you… but he didn’t know that Bella’s day out of the house and socialising with friends… was more like getting yelled at on the beach by my so-called best friend.

They followed us to the kitchen, and I turned to glare at them. “Weren’t you talking about a game or something? We don’t need a peanut gallery.” I elbowed Bella lightly as we started to unpack the groceries.

The two figures finally retreated, muttering something about grumpy teens. “Should we start the brownies first? They need to sit a while before you can cut them, right?”

※ Bella ※

The Black house had a warmth to it, and I didn’t mean from the wood burner, I meant this sentimental warmth which engendered care, love, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Seeing the three of them laughing, joking, and teasing made a sigh of contentment, release from within. Of course I knew #Charlies friends were here for him, however they had also opened their tighten knit group up to welcome me in too.

The dads headed away. “I didn’t know they listened to you Jacob.” Nodding my head towards their retrieving bodies. #Charlies two steps behind  #Billy until he disappeared into the couch.

“Uhm..” nodding again as we unpacked the groceries. “It would be a good idea, for once giving them some time to rest. Charlie had a habit of stealing from the pan while they ate hot.” Saying it loud enough to be heard over the TV.

‘Lies. I hear nothing but lies.’ He was up making his way to the fridge.

“I would never.” He kissed me on the head and squeezed me into a half hug.

‘Whatever you say Bells.’ Whispering to Jacob. ‘I’m an officer of the law. I wouldn’t steal.’ Winking he left with two beers in his hands.

※ Jacob ※

I laughed. “Only when they want feeding!” I teased her. “I learned a lot from #Sue and Auntie #Connie so if I’m even half as good as either of those two I’m doing pretty good in the cooking department.” I boasted a little.

I nodded when she agreed we should start the brownies  first. “I know that from trying to steal #Sue’s and getting my hand slapped away.” I laughed and rubbed my hand like I could feel it. Even if she never hit hard, always a warning shot with a glare that made you take it seriously. “Okay… so what do we need? A mixing bowl…

One of those tray thingies… and…” I looked to her for the answers and searched for the tray in the cupboard next to the oven.

I rolled my eyes. “I’m inclined to believe Bell’s, #Chief! I’ve seen you try to snake a half-grilled burger off a barbeque.” #Charlie waved me off as he walked back into the living room. But I heard his deep chuckle. I set the bowl and tray on the counter and pulled open a drawer for spoons and a whisk.

Baking wasn’t really my thing… unless you counted heating lasagne or the pies that #Sue brought over, but I had a vague idea of the basic tools.

※ Bella ※

Once again, I found myself smiling, knowing #Charlie noticed it too. His chuckles and teasing with Jacob and I had a calming reaction for sure.

“Oh... Uhm… a knife to cut the chocolate bars with please? And a board too. And…” as I placed the ideas from the bag before us. Lifting up the bananas. “Could we microwave two of these for a few minutes? I need them to become ripe and soft.”

“Sue’s been great with the food advice with me too. Over the last year, I’ve gotten to learn to cook a few more things, other that the meat Charlie wasn’t all the time.”

Taking the mixing bowl, looking around. “Do you have any measuring cups at all?” Glancing towards the dads who had now fallen into their normal routine of discussing the game situation and how they would do things differently.

※ Jacob ※

I tilted my head at her… A knife for the chocolate? I chuckled. “Now there’s a sentence I never thought I’d hear. A Knife to cut the chocolate coming right up!” I grinned and pulled the drawer next to the sink open and found a big knife. Then I stopped to think about measuring cups…

“I know have I a jug…” I said and went to the corner cupboard… the annoying one that went back so deep that anything that went there might as well have been lost forever. My finger closed on a handle, and I pulled… various ancient pots and pans clattered. I pulled out the heavy Pyrex jug with measurements printed on both sides and held it out… “This has probably been in here for a year.” I laughed. “We should wash it first.” I set it in the sink, ignoring the mess I had likely made inside the cupboard… I made a mental note to clear  it out soon.

※ Bella ※

“Excuse you… I actually read in a blog that you should use a bar of chocolate when baking and not the chips. Which is all good and well.” Holding up the thick chocolate bar for him to see. “However, these things are hard to break with just my fingers. Also, I got the high coco  dark chocolate, it’s not so sweet. So, your dad can enjoy the dessert too.”

Setting the bar down, I walked over the sink without thinking. Picking up the jug and began to wash it out. Shouts came from the vicinity of the TV making me smile a little again. Once clean and dry I returned to the bowl and began to measure out all the ingredients we needed into the bowl. “Could you chop and mash the bananas and I’ll get to chopping the chocolate.”

Setting the bowl aside, I turned to the work at hand.

“These things are made to test one’s strength and willpower.” Joking (but not at the same time.”

※ Jacob ※

“I believe you!” I laughed holding up my hands in surrender. “Plus, I’ve tried that cooking chocolate before…. It’s…” I wrinkled up my nose. “Bitter.”

I smiled, I liked that she was thinking of not just Dad’s health… but the little bit of joy he’d get from a treat. This was Bella Swan, so I wasn’t shocked; she was kind unlike anyone else I had ever met. “Mashed bananas.” I said like it was a perfectly normal thing to do. “On it.” I washed my hands and grabbed the bunch. Then found a space on the counter to start peeling and breaking them into a  bowl. I laughed. “You mean the junk cupboard? I think every kitchen has one.”

I licked the fork I mashed the bananas with and dropped it into the sink as I passed to put them where Bella could reach them easily. “What’s next?”

※ Bella ※

“And this is why we are using the bananas. A little sweetness to cut the bitterness of the chocolate.” Leaning over the knife, using the full weight of my body to cut down on the thick bar of the chocolate.

Smiling. My eyes remained in the work in hand, the last thing I wanted was to cut myself and ble—"

“I—" Stopping the thought as it came to life in my mind, cutting myself, my blood, it wasn’t something I needed to worry about. I stopped the next thought even faster before my heart gave in to the darkness I have been fighting to fix.

“Uhm…” replaying what I’d heard while spinning internally. “We need to melt the chocolate once it’s cut. Could you set up a bain-marie at all?” A frown finding a home between my brows. The knife coming down harder and faster now as I attempt to distract myself.

※ Jacob ※

“Just don’t tell Dad there’s fruit in there… he thinks fruit is only dessert if it’s baked in a pie with massive amounts of sugar.” I chuckled. She seemed to freeze for a second with her eyes glued on the knife in a way that made my stomach churn a little.

Then she was sad again… out of nowhere… but not really. I mean I knew that today was only a reprieve from the pain she was in, I wasn’t going to swoop in and save her from the darkness in an afternoon. This wasn’t a movie; it was real life. But… it hurt my heart to actually see the little joy she had, drain away right in front of me.

So, I did the only thing I could think of… try to make her laugh. “Oh yeah, a… bam --- thingies sure. No problem I can do it with one arm tied behind ---” I shook my head, laughing. “Nope... absolutely not. I have no idea what that means. But…” I smirked…. “I’m a fast learner.”

※ Bella ※

“No.. of course, I wouldn’t tell… unless he asks…” distracted slightly as I considered myself lucky for controlling my mind.  The bar was chopped down half way before my gaze fell on Jacob making me smile. Jacob’s laughter had filled the kitchen, making it difficult not to  see how he was trying to help me.

“Bain-marie, Jake.” Licking my lips, I brushed my hair out of the way and pointed to the stove. “If you place a pan of water to boil, and a bowl over it. Please make sure the water doesn’t touch the bowl. We can then melt the chocolate with an indirect heat source. It’s the best way for smooth and glossy chocolate. It’s all about the science, you know.”

My hands had begun to hurt a little with the weight of me trying to cut all the chocolate up however it would be worth it in the end.

※ Jacob ※

I chuckled again. “He won’t. He’s learned to just enjoy it and not ruin his treats. He knows that the minute he hears sugar free he assumes it won’t taste as nice. When he makes no assumptions, he learns to enjoy the things he can have. #Sue’s trick is to tell him he’s only allowed one, then he thinks that just maybe it’s a little cheeky.” I grinned and wondered how many times she’d used that trick on us as kids.

“Oh…” I chuckled. “That doesn’t sound so complicated.” I smiled and looked for a heatproof bowl and a pan that it would safely sit  on top of. I set the water to boil and went to stand next to her. She was white knuckling the knife she was chopping the chocolate with… I wondered if it had something to do with the stressful moment that seemed to threaten to overwhelm her a moment ago.

“Hey, let me try  that, Bells.” I held out my hand for the knife. “It's not every day you get the chance to carve up a chocolate bar with a kitchen knife.”

※ Bella ※

Setting the knife carefully on the counter I took a step to the side. “There you go, I’m not placing it on your hand, that’s not very safe, Jacob.”

Working my hands to ease the discomfort of the pressure placed due to cutting the thick bar of chocolate. “Sue is really good in the way she speaks to you.” She had done something similar when I had needed help. “She’s a lovely lady.” Adding it as I glanced back to the stove. Before gazing back to him.

“Please be careful when cutting, I cannot have you injuring yourself before  we even begin cooking dinner.” Elbowing him in the side playfully. While he took over the chopping, I moved onto measuring out the dry and the wet ingredients ready for the next stage.

※ Jacob ※

“You are such a cop’s daughter.” I chuckled. But she had a point, it was a better option when the counter was right there. “Sue is amazing, she does so much for the tribe and the school… the clinic, and the community centre. I honestly don’t know how she has the time for it all.”

I chuckled a little at the protective comment. Such a cop’s daughter, I thought it this time. I started to chop… “I’ve been the boss in this kitchen since I was twelve.” I teased, remembering cooking in this kitchen with the twins before they went off to college. I matched the sizes of the chunks to the ones Bella had already made. “I’m pretty good with a knife… not in a creepy way.” I laughed when I realised that sounded like that was something a serial killer would say. It wasn’t as hard as it looked, the knife sliced easily through the thick bar, but I learned after a few chops to go slow, or chocolate chunks and crumbs flew off the cutting board.

When I was done, I went to check the pot of water, it was bubbling now. “So do I just put the bowl on top and let the chocolate melt?” I wanted to follow Bella’s lead on this one. I wasn’t used the baking unless it was warming up a pie #Sue had already made, and I didn’t want to ruin her dessert.

※ Bella ※

“And proud of it, however if you tell Charlie I said it out loud. I will have to kill you.” Trying to mimic the tone and accent of Liam Neeson in The Taken but failing miserably.

My gazed flickered to Jacob and back to the measuring jug as he spoke. It occurred to me how Jacob had stepped up to help in his home just as I had mine with mom at a young age. I’d never considered how he and #Billy would have managed their home once the twins left for college.

“Knife skills huh? And don’t worry about it, statistically speaking, the likeliness of there being two serial killers in a close proximity is really unlikely.” Giving him a devilish smirk, which I hoped didn’t look as uncomfortable as it felt doing it.

Upon my next glance over to Jacob, the crease between my brow deepened as I frowned. “You’re really making me look bad. I was struggling with the task you are making look so easy.

‘The boy is all muscular these days.’ #Charlie called out from where the dads were.

“Stop listening to our conversations!” Mocking my dad with a chuckle. His eyes came over the back of the couch and he smiled watching me.

‘Us Black men are stronger than we look.’ #Billy laughed punching dad in the shoulder. The sound of both of them laughing made me smile.

“Uhmm? Oh... yes.” Stopping myself from becoming distracted. “Yes, please if you set it on there, when you see it has begun to melt you can stir it.

Whipping the back of my hand over my forehead to move my hair out of my eyes. My hands working to whisk the ingredients in my bowl.

※ Jacob ※

I laughed and gave her a side-long glance at her serial killer comment. “Are you sure about that?” I asked with a slightly evil glint in my eyes. “Nah… you were doing it for longer. I can’t take all the credit.” I flushed a little at the comment #Charlie made. If the guys had  been here, I would have bragged… but Bella? My cheeks burned.

I tipped the chocolate into the mixing bowl and set it on top of the pot, making sure the water didn’t touch the bowl like she’d said before. Then I went to wipe the flakes and chocolate dust that escaped the  board off the counter, I’d have a moment before it would start to melt. Then I returned to watch it, the corners of the pieces touching the metal already melting a little bit.

“Who taught you how to cook?” I asked… curious. I had a feeling it probably wasn’t her mom.

※ Bella ※

“Okay, Jacob Black. I see you.” Elbowing him in the side. He took the bait and ran with the joke. “You know two minds are better than one. We can give each other our alibis”.

Smiling a little again, it had become a habit around this young boy now. “I know what the truth is. And you chopping that bar as though it is melted butter is boasting worthy.”

The almond tint of his skin reddened, however uncertain as to why I began to whisk the ingredients in the bowl before me.

“TV… a grandma a little too. Magazines on food, and sometimes I just thrust myself into the unknown hoping the outcome would be advantageous and edible. Well one of the two at least.”

My mom was never one to step forward into the kitchen for anything more than a sandwich or some pop.

※ Jacob ※

If I hadn’t had been blushing already, I might have taken her invitation to boast. “Anytime Swan…” I grinned. “The FBI shows up and asks me anything you were with me all day.” I nodded seriously.

“Must have been fun… Learning from your grandma.” I said, stirring the chocolate  now that a puddle of melted chocolate was pooled on the bottom of the bowl. “But it sounds like you mostly taught yourself… that’s cool and from everything I see so far you are pretty good at it.”

I kept stirring, there were still a few lumps, but they were soft and  shrinking. “What comes after melting the chocolate? I think this is nearly ready.”

※ Bella ※

Taping the side of my nose with a small playful wink. “And I’ll do it right back for you, Black.”

Shrugging my shoulders, a little “I have some fondness when I think of my time with her. She always had so much patience with me.”

My hand waved over the bowls and the baking tray I was buttering now. “Cooking is passable, this baking thing. It’s new. And brownies are as good as I have in my repertoire.”

Leaning over to gaze into the bowl. “Oh, that looks good. As soon as the last of the chunks melts, you can pour it into the big bowl here.” Lifting my chin towards the one I meant. “As soon as we stir it all together, it’s ready to go into the oven.”

※ Jacob ※

“More than passable for what I’ve tasted so far Bells..” I stirred the bowl until the last of the lumps melted away. I turned off the burner and lifted the bowl with a towel, hot water dripped from the underside, and I waited until most of it stopped.

“Careful… there’s still  a few drips.” I said as I tipped over the bowl into the one that she had pointed out. “I guess it's something you just have to learn by doing really. I used to do everything the way the twins did… but then I started changing things a little at a time and adding more. Now my Bolognese is famous…” I boasted. “In a very small circle of people… but still.” I laughed. And put the hot metal bowl into the sink, after scraping out as much chocolate as possible.

※ Bella ※

“Yeah. I guess. I hadn’t thought of it before.” Talking as Jacob went to take the bowl in his hands to the sink.

“Now that you say so, I guess it’s the same for me. Your sisters touch you, my grandmother and YouTube taught me and now we are here with your famously amazing  cooking.” Half smiling.

I stepped up stirring all the different ingredients together until they were combined. Once the batter became smooth, the contents were emptied into the baking tray.

“Who wants to lick the bowl?” I’d only gotten half way through asking the question and #Charlie was up running over; he took the spatula too.

‘I best take something for the old one to try too. Otherwise, he’ll sulk the rest of the night.’ Kissing my forehead.

‘Hey, don’t call yourself old. Don’t worry we won’t banish you a cave without dinner  just yet.’ #Billy shot over his shoulder, eyes still on the TV screen.

“You both are such big babies.” Rolling my eyes and wiping down the counter. Moving the Bowls to the sink for a clean-up.

“Right, chef. What can I do to help you with dinner?”

※ Jacob ※

I laughed… “I wouldn’t go that far… I mean my cooking is decent. But this is just the one that I chose to perfect. I should probably start a new goal for a perfect dish.” I chuckled.

I watched how she combined everything. How it all went a little clumpy and then started to  look more and more like you would expect brownie batter to look… I was half expecting the chocolate to start going solid right away. I laughed as #Charlie ran in… Not licking any excess chocolate off of the spoon at all. Nope, I was far too mature for that.

Then he vanished with the bowl and spatula. I wiped my mouth quickly with paper towels and washed my hands again. “We can start with the sauce if that doesn’t need to go into the oven yet?” I asked, clearing space on the counter. Bella was like me, tidying as she went… I hated a big clean-up job after I cooked. But that hadn’t come from the twins… They would wreck the place and do a big clean-up after we ate. It was a quick job after Bells washed the bowl.

I pulled out pots this time, then the vegetables, mushrooms, and tinned tomatoes for the sauce.

※ Bella ※

Shaking my head. “Not yet, we can talk place it in the oven once the sauce is on. It’s all about timing at this stage. Charlie likes them still warm for the first night.”

‘And I know how to use the microwave for the second round the next day.’ He called out. “Would you stop listening in to our conversation and consider watching the game with your friend!” There was a smile on my face while telling my dad off. Well. It wasn’t really a telling off.

“Of course, we can begin with the sauce. I am happy to chop up the onions for you. ”A job I knew most people didn’t like to do, so I offered so that it didn’t case them the eye burn. “And anything else you trust me to work on too.”

With my hands now dry, I went to stand beside the counter, finding a knife and chopping board and the onions to begin the process.

※ Jacob ※

I laughed and rolled my eyes. “You know he never chimes in like when I’m cooking. He’s all about the deserts.” My brow crinkled and watched her gather up the onions and chopping board. “You are volunteering to torture yourself?” I tilted my head and watched her. “It's my  least favourite part of cooking.” I chuckled. “Chopping onions. If you’re sure I’ll gladly delegate, the task.”

‘That’s my boy! Can’t have you crying in front of a girl.’ Dad called in for the next room. I rolled my eyes.

“Really, Dad? What happened to you two not  eavesdropping anymore!” I looked at Bella and smirked. “My next home improvement job will be soundproof doors.”

I went to the sink and washed the carrots and celery, setting myself up with a second cutting board near #Bella to start peeling and chopping.

※ Bella ※

“I’m sure, happy to help with the unwanted jobs. But you need to understand… This is going to get messy, however I feel up to the challenge.” I replied before looking back to where his dad spoke from this time.

I could help but laugh this time, another one of those full disclosure no holes bared laughs which I’d not done in a long while. “Those two are most certainly taking turns tonight.”

Peeling the skin of the onion, I cleaned the cellar membrane where it stuck before halving it with the root still on and began to slice and then dice. It didn’t take long. At first the smell on the vegetable hit my nose, setting off the chain reaction of the stinging and then came the tears.

I blinked my eyes, using the sleeves of my jumper to pat my eyes but not giving up. “Okay. These are shape.” Sniffling.

※ Jacob ※

I chopped the vegetables really fine and then cut up the streaky bacon I used instead of pancetta. “They are as bad as each other.” I chuckled. “And it’s getting worse with old age.” I whispered the last part.

I took the onions from her. “Thank you!” I smiled and then tilted  her face up. “Let’s assess the… Damage.” I paused, swallowing hard. Spirit’s… she was even pretty when she cried! I knew that was a stupid thing to think… Probably an awful thing to think. I mean, not this time because it was onions... but if she was really crying, it would be an awful thing to think. I grabbed a paper towel and handed it to her. “Not too bad.” I fibbed... not bad at all. “Tough as nails Bells.”

I took away the finger I had tilted her chin up with, realising I had touched her without asking again. Then I moved on to  peeling the garlic to get ready. Suddenly glad I hadn’t dealt with that before reaching for Bella’s face.

“Could you put a pot of water on to boil for the pasta please?” I asked, separating the three cloves of garlic I needed and assessing that I had everything I laid out  before I started to cook. “Oh!” I laughed realising I had forgotten the ground beef. I went to the fridge to grab it.

※ Bella ※

“Thank you.” The paper towel helped to wipe away the evidence of my tears, even if the stinging remained in place for now.

My mind went to how tall Jacob had become once again as my head tilted back to glance up at him. And his touch had been so deliciously warm. That act had cased my shoulders to stiffen, however the kindness of this boy had me relaxed.

“Of course, I can.” Following the way he indicated, opening the door to the cabinet I found a pot which could be used getting to work to fill it half way with water before setting it on the stove. The scent of garlic came instantly when he began to cut it, I turned to face the kitchen watching Jacob going to the fridge.

“Awww… and here I thought it would be meat free.” Teasing as I walked over to find a way to help with the next task.

Continued....

#BellaSwan #Bella #AUWorld #Twlight #TwilightRP #TwiRP #JacobBlack #Jacob #Jake

[vyncentlavine-blog]

//yay!!! I got an AU thing going! here’s the link for all to see if they are curious.

https://vyncentlavine.tumblr.com/AUworld (so far I only have one and it’s for FFXV)

#Out Of Mana

[gibcosta]

LIVE Gibraltar - Cyprus - World Cup Qualification UEFA - 10 June ... - Eurosport.com AU

LIVE Gibraltar – Cyprus – World Cup Qualification UEFA – 10 June … – Eurosport.com AU

LIVE Gibraltar – Cyprus – World Cup Qualification UEFA – 10 June …Eurosport.com AUWorld Cup Qualification UEFA – Follow the Football match between Gibraltar and Cyprus live with Eurosport. The match starts at 04:45 on 10 June 2017.LIVE Gibraltar – Cyprus World Cup Qualification UEFA – 10 June 2017Eurosport.com ASIA all 14 news articles »

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#Cyprus #Football #Gibraltar #uk