Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter One: Forks, Washington

Death is not kind nor forgiving. Death is ravenous. Death was never fulfilled with a singular life, always willing to obtain more. Death hung over humanity ─ surrounding and suffocating them in everything they did. In life, you learn that there is a possibility that death will one day snatch you up ─ never to be seen again. And all that remains are those left behind ─ with the faint memories of their times together in the back of their heads, taunting them with the ghost of their loved ones ─ fearing the day that death knocked on their door with a cold whisper of shortened breath.

We all die. The goal isn't to live forever, the goal is to create something that will. This is why Annabeth Swan doesn't spend night and day thinking about her death — when it may happen or how. Annabeth focuses more on the delicacy of nature, the beauty of art and the deep melodies of the world's music. As she leaned back against her stepfather's car under the beaming Arizona sun — watching as her twin sister collected a small cactus from the yard, she couldn't help but smile, closing her eyes to soak in the last few moments of sun.

The twins were moving from Phoenix, Arizona to Forks, Washington to live with their father, Charlie Swan. Rene, their mother and Phil, their stepfather were wanting to spend some time on the road so they left the twins with their father. Annabeth wasn't gonna miss the sunshine that often left her pale skin redder than a lobster, she was gonna miss the clear blue skies that almost matched the bright blue of her own eyes. She was, however, excited to see Forks again purely because of the endless woods that held nature.

"Anna!" Bella shouted causing Anna to jump, opening her eyes to see her older sister standing in front of her with a smirk. "Unfair, Bells. You could've just, oh, I don't know... spoke quietly to gain my attention," Anna told her sister as they both got into Phil's car. "Where's the fun in that?" Bella asked her. As you would find with most twins, Bella and Anna were close despite their opposing personalities. Bella was more of an introvert that liked to keep to herself while Anna didn't mind meeting new people and going places.

The flight to Washington was quick for Anna considering she slept through the whole flight while Bella read with her earbuds in. In the state of Washington, under a near-constant cover of clouds and rain, there's a small town named Forks with a population of 3,120 people. And as Annabeth sat in the back of her father's police cruiser looking out the window at the passing scenery, she couldn't help but smile fondly despite the coldness of the state. "Your hair's longer," Charlie told Bella under the awkward tension that rested within the car.

"I cut it since the last time you saw me," Bella told him, Anna was cringing at the conversion attempt. "Guess it grew out again," Charlie replied before focusing back on the road. "So dad, I was wondering if you and Billy are still on the outs?" Anna asked with a smile, leaning forward in her seat. Unlike Bella, Anna had continued their summer visits and her last visit was only four months ago, so Anna had a closer connection with their father. "You know Billy and me, Anna. We're fine one week then no good on the next," Charlie answered her, both laughing.

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The trio pulled up to the Swan residence, the white paint chipped and washed out by the condensation caused by the rainy weather. Anna climbed out of the car, adjusting the beanie on her head to keep her ears warm before she slammed the door shut ─ not missing the stern expression on Charlie's face due to the force she used. Anna and Bella followed behind Charlie into the house, Anna took in a soothing breath admiring the rustic scent that always made Anna feel comfortable. "I've cleared some shelves off in the bathroom," Charlie told them as they walked up the stairs.

"Right. One bathroom," Bella replied with a sigh as she looked at her sister, Anna simply smiled happily in hopes to reassure her sister that they'd be fine. Anna followed behind Bella and Charlie, the air between them was still awkward and she hoped her presence would settle it. "It's a pretty good work lamp," Charlie pointed out as Bella looked around her room, Anna inspected the lamp before nodding in agreement. "The sales lady picked out the bed stuff. You like purple, right?" Charlie asked Bella who had gripped onto Anna's hand as she looked around the room she hadn't been in for a while.

"Purple's cool. Thanks," Bella replied to him with a tight-lipped smile. "It's great, dad," Anna assured with her bright smile, the sight relaxing both Charlie and Bella instantly. "Okay. Well, Anna, you know where your room is," Charlie told her, not wanting to intrude on his daughters any longer, he made his way out. That was one of the things both girls liked about Charlie, he didn't hover. He trusted that his seventeen-year-old daughters could handle themselves, and of course, he didn't want to stick around in the awkward atmosphere between him and Bella ─ he just hoped things would get better between the two.

"I'm gonna let you settle in," Anna told Bella before kissing her cheek. "Okay," Bella replied simply before looking around the room. Anna made her way out of the room and down the hall to a lonesome door, she had the room furthest away from Bella and Charlie, but she loved that. Annabeth's room was a nice medium size and from your place at the door, across the room sat a window with a window seat where Anna spent quite a lot of time reading or drawing. On either side of the window were shelves that had small trinkets and a few photo frames waiting to be filled.

She had a Queen sized bed with her colour choices of a light grey to dark purple ratio, finding something soothing in the two tones. She had a desk against the wall across from her bed, nothing on it except for one frame containing a photo of young Bella and Anna. Anna loved her room in Forks compared to in Arizona where she had a single bed, no window seat and curtains were often shut due to the morning sun that heated up her room like a sauna despite its humidity. Whereas in Forks, the curtains she could have opened, watching the rainfall.

Anna placed her bags onto her bed and began unpacking straight away, placing her clothes into the drawers that sat idly on either side of the bedroom door. It didn't take her long ─ due to the lack of clothing she had that was good for winter weather. It didn't take long for Anna to be done unpacking, she shoved her suitcase underneath her bed, where other boxes containing her childhood rested. She smiled contently when she heard a car door slam, her attention instantly turned to her window.

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"Heard you guys coming all the way down the road," Charlie announced as he and Bella walked outside, Anna following behind them as she pulled her two jackets on tighter — cursing at herself for not buying warmer jackets knowing what Forks' weather was like. "Good to see you," Billy Black responded to him with a smile. "Bella, you remember-" Charlie began but was cut off by Anna. "Billy!" Anna shouted before she ran over and hugged him, the older man laughed as he hugged her back. "-Billy Black," Charlie finished off with an amused smile.

"What about me?" Annabeth looked up to see another familiar face, her smile widening as she ran over to Jacob Black and practically pounced into his arms. "Jakey!" Anna squealed happily as he laughed and wrapped his arms around her. "Good to see you, Bethy," Jacob replied before he set her down. "You're looking good," Anna told Billy with a wink, the man chuckling. "Well, I'm still dancing," Billy replied to her. Billy, Charlie, Jacob and Bella were all relishing in the bright aura that is Annabeth Swan. Everything about her made you feel good, she had this calming aura around her that always seemed to make you feel relaxed.

"I'm glad you're both finally here. Charlie here hasn't shut up about it since you told him you were coming," Billy told the twins who both looked at their father with raised brows, the man blushing slightly in embarrassment. "All right, keep exaggerating — I'll roll you in the mud," Charlie playfully warned Billy. "After I ram you in the ankles," Billy told him causing Anna to laugh at their childish behaviour. "You want to go?" Charlie asked him before the two moved onto the road, playfully fighting like two teenage boys rather than grown adults — the sight was quite amusing for Anna.

"Hi, I'm Jacob," Jacob introduced himself to Bella as he stood between the twins watching the two men play fight. "Hey," Bella greeted plainly — she was never one for social interaction. "We all used to make mud pies when we were little," Jacob told her, ignoring the smirk on Anna's face.  And you used to crush on her , Anna thought to herself before focusing back on the two grown children. "Right. No, I remember," Bella said with a small smile but Anna had slight doubt about that. "Are they always like this?" Bella asked Jacob. "It's getting worse with old age," Jacob answered as he rested his arm comfortably on Anna's shoulder.

"So what do you two think?" Charlie asked as he and Billy came back over, Charlie tapping the red rust-bucket Ute. "Of what?" Bella asked with furrowed brows while Anna caught on. "Your homecoming present," Charlie replied as Anna walked towards the Ute with a smile on her face. "This?" Bella asked as she pointed at the Ute. "Just bought it off Billy here," Charlie answered her with a proud dad smile. "I totally rebuilt the engine for you," Jacob said to the twins with his own prideful smile. "Oh, my gosh! This is perfect. Are you joking me?" Bella asked with an impressed smile on her face.

Anna nodded to Jacob before motioning towards the car, the boy half caught what she was trying to say. "Go on, Bells. You can check it out," Anna told her before she moved to stand beside Billy. "I told you they'd love it. I'm down with the kids," Charlie told Billy who scoffed. "Oh, yeah, dude. You're the bomb," Billy replied causing Anna to snort covering it with a cough due to Charlie's playful glare. "She's already in love with the car," Anna told them as they watched Jacob teach Bella how to ensure it works. "Looks like you and Bella will be riding to school together," Billy told her.

"At least till I finally convince Dad to let me own a motorbike. I have a license for one," Anna replied, stuffing her hands into her pockets. "Not happening. Those things are too dangerous and you can get seriously hurt," Charlie challenged instantly, shaking his head. "I'll see what I can do," Billy told Anna with a wink, the blonde laughing in response. She missed these moments within Forks, she was eager to see old faces from her momentary visits - not that she ever spoke to others - and to revisit all of her favourite places in Forks where she would read, draw or even just sit in peaceful silence as the world around her passed by.

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After an awkward dinner due to the obvious distant tension between Charlie and Bella, Anna laid back on her plush bed and stared up at the ceiling. She was deep in her thoughts about her first day of school — in March, the middle of the semester — and how it might go. She was the more social of the pair, so she knew they'd make friends. With a final sigh, Anna changed out of her day clothes and into some pyjamas before curling up into a ball onto her soft plush bed, relishing the warmth that the weather had stolen. It didn't take long for exhaustion to hit Anna like a wave, her eyes drooping as a small puddle of drool unattractively escaped her mouth before she fell completely asleep.

Her dreams were peaceful and filled with different wonders within the imaginative corners of her mind. However, outside of her home stood a large creature watching closely and with intrigue. The lights of a car flashed by causing them to reflect for a moment before it backed into the woods, feet padding against the ground as its mind filled with questions and no answers. The cool breeze of the night brushed through the large creature as it ran through the woods and across a cavern into the familiar territory where its large prints changed into the steps of a man who had no idea why they were so interested in the Swan residence; answers not to come until the future.

Chapter Text

Chapter Two: The Cullens

The first day of school was something that Bella wasn't eager for but Anna was. It wasn't school itself that Anna enjoyed, it was meeting new people with different personalities because she was always good at reading people. She was great with people because she always had a bright aura around her. "Okay, how does this sound?" Anna asked Bella who nodded in a motion for her to continue. "To love is not to possess the other person or to consume all their attention and love. To love is to offer the person joy and a balm for their suffering. Love is an offering," Anna read out from her journal with a smooth tone like a Shakespearean actor under a spotlight — her crowd of thousands, just one.

"Uh, wow... Anna, that, uh, is beautiful," Bella breathed out practically speechless by her poetic words. "It's just something I've been working on after my last therapy session with Mrs Babcock in Arizona — which I'm glad I no longer have to see," Anna pointed out as they pulled into the school's parking lot. "I can't believe we are starting school in the middle of the semester," Bella muttered to her sister before pulling roughly into the park. "Welp... at least we're together, right?" Anna asked raising her pinkie, Bella smiled before interlocking their pinkies with a slow breath.

They made their way out of the Ute — everyone's eyes focused on the new faces in the small town of Forks — before linking their pinkies together out of slight nerves. "Nice ride," A guy called out to Bella, the brunette smiled awkwardly, "Thanks." Anna smiled happily at the guy before the twins walked off. "You're Isabella and Annabeth Swan, the new girls," An Asian guy spoke as he approached them with a wide welcoming smile. "We prefer Anna and Bella," Anna corrected happily, receiving a grateful smile from Bella. Before the twins looked back at the teenage boy greeting them.

"Hi, I'm Eric, the eyes and ears of this place. Anything you two need, tour guide, lunch date, shoulder to cry on?" Eric offered before sending a flirtatious smile towards them. "I'm really kind of the more suffer-in-silence type," Bella told him anxiously. "While I'm more open to options," Anna answered with a wink that only made Eric's smile widen. "Good headline for your feature. I'm on the paper, and you're news, baby, front page," Eric told them excitedly but Anna noticed the anxious look on Bella's face. "That's awfully kind of you but, uh, we don't want the feature," Anna told him with a smile as she linked her arm with Bella's, the brunette smiling at her sister gratefully.

"Chillax. No feature," Eric stated after noticing the anxious look on Bella's face due to Anna's words. "Okay, thanks," Bella told him before looking down. "Can you show us to the office?" Anna asked Eric, she enjoyed his enthusiasm. "It'd be a pleasure," Eric told her before he rambled on about the paper as he led them to the office. Anna already liked Eric's personality, he was eager to make new friends and with his constant rambling, Bella and Anna had no reason to put extra effort into the conversation other than minor agreements or short responses.

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"Gym!?" Bella shrieked at her sister as they walked towards the gym — which Eric thankfully gave them directions to. "I know... It's a crappy first class but it's better than having math or science, 'cause we can awaken our minds," Anna assured her with a smile as she tied her hair back out of her face. Bella relaxed at her sister's words, her smile and that calming aura that surrounded her. "Now, let's go embarrass ourselves," Anna told her with a chuckle before dragging Bella behind her. Bella smiled softly at her younger sister, she was beyond grateful for the ball of sunshine in everyone's lives.

Anna and Bella weren't the most athletic but between the twins, Anna was more coordinated which meant Volleyball — the coach's game choice — would be easier for the blonde. Anna laughed whenever the ball got close to Bella, the poor brunette tapping it away while covering her face in the process. "Be fearless!" Anna cheered to her sister with a chuckle as Bella glared at her. Bella hit the ball which sent it into a guy's head, Bella grabbed Anna's hand and dragged her over to him with her. "I'm sorry. I told them not to let me play," Bella rambled out instantly as he turned to them, the boy became flustered instantly at the sight of the twins. "No way. No, no, no. That's... That's... Don't," He rambled before clearing his throat.

"You're Isabella and Annabeth, right?" He asked them with a lopsided smile resting on his face as he looked at the twins with pure admiration. "Just Bella and Anna," Bella replied as she tightened her grip on Anna's hand, the blonde smiling sweetly at the boy. "Hey, I'm Mike Newton," Mike introduced with flushed cheeks. "She's got a great spike, huh?" A brunette asked as she skipped over standing close to Mike. Anna instantly recognized the territorial behaviour that the brunette was showing in regards to Mike — sharing a silent conversation look with Bella with an understanding of her behaviour.

"I'm Jessica, by the way," Jessica introduced to the twins, a slight glare due to the way Mike was practically drooling over the twins. "Hey, you're both from Arizona, right?" Jessica asked the twins. "Yeah, we are," Anna replied with a bright smile that rarely left her face. "Aren't people from Arizona supposed to be, like, really tan?" Jessica asked with a fake laugh. "Maybe that's why they kicked us out," Bella answered causing Anna to authentically laugh, the sound was like a melody to those around her — Bella couldn't help the rare smile that appeared on her face. Jessica and Mike laughed with them before the separate coaches called them back. "Nice response," Anna told Bella before the two laughed.

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Bella and Anna made their way into the loud cafeteria, one awkward smile and another bright smile that brightened the room. "There are eyes on us," Bella whispered to her sister. "Then hold your head high and ignore them," Anna responded with her arm interlocked with Bella's. The Swan twins made their way further into the cafeteria where they spotted Jessica and Mike. Bella and Anna sat down after being called over, they both smiled up at the others. "Hey, Mikey! You met my homegirls, Bella and Anna?" Eric asked with a smirk from his spot next to Anna, Mike seated next to Bella. "Your homegirls?" Mike asked him hesitantly. "Yeah," Eric said with a nod as Bella tried to cover her face from the attention, Anna smirking at the sight.

"Yeah? That's..." Mike trailed off as the guy from earlier — who complimented their car — came up behind the twins before kissing their cheeks. "My girls," He spoke before pulling the seat from under Mike. "Sorry, I had to mess up your game, Mike!" He yelled before running off with Mike following behind him. "Tyler!" Mike called out as he followed after him, Anna chuckling at them. "Oh, my God. It's like first grade all over again. You're the shiny new toy," Jessica told them as she moved her seat closer to Bella. "Smile!" Another girl cheered with her camera raised, Bella awkwardly smiled as Anna brightly smiled. "Sorry," She spoke noticing the anxious expression on Bella's face. "I needed a candid for the feature," She told them.

"The features dead, Angela. Don't bring it up again," Eric defended instantly, his arm around the back of Anna's chair. "It's okay, I just..." Bella began but Eric cut her off. "I got your back, baby," Eric told her before walking away in search of Mike and Tyler. "Guess we'll just run another editorial on teen drinking," Angela said as she placed her camera done. "You know, you can always go for eating disorders," Bella told her while Anna nodded in agreement. "Speedo padding on the swim team," Anna added as she bit into her apple. "Actually, that's a good one," Angela answered with a smile. "Kirk. Right? That's exactly what I thought," Jessica said with a smirk. "Yeah," Bella nodded along as Anna pulled her journal out and began writing.

"What're you writing?" Jessica asked with a raised brow. "Oh, she has these random thoughts that hit her sometimes and she writes them down," Bella explained before reaching over and pulling Anna's hair tie out, her blonde hair falling like a curtain to cover her face and the journal out of respect of her thoughts. "Oh wow," Angela voiced as she and Jessica watched Anna's pen glide across the paper delicately. "She's, like, really focused," Jessica said with a crease in her brow. "Uh, yeah. You can never pull her from it and the thoughts are always different," Bella explained, the understanding of her sister's mind becoming an easy topic to talk about without an air of anxiety hovering over her.

Anna let out a quiet gasp bringing her back to reality before placing her pen down and looking up at the others. "Wanna hear it?" Anna asked with a wide smile — the other three nodding happily. "Our character isn't defined by the battles we win or lose, but by the battles we dare to fight," Anna read out before leaning back in her seat. "Wow, that's strangely beautiful," Jessica responded as Anna closed her journal. "There random thoughts... But it isn't the strange part, the strange part is that they don't feel like my own thoughts sometimes," Anna told them honestly before leaning back in her seat, rolling around the core of her eaten apple.

"Who are they?" Bella suddenly asked gaining the attention of the table — they all looked towards the doors that lead outside where a group of people were making their way in. "The Cullens," Jessica told them, Anna's full attention spiked at the recognition of potential gossip — which she loved to debunk. "They're Dr and Mrs Cullens, foster kids. They moved down here from Alaska, like, a few years ago," Jessica explained to the twins. "They kind of keep to themselves," Angela added to the explanation. "Yeah, 'cause they're all together. Like, together, together," Jessica emphasized sternly.

"Well, they aren't blood-related, so it isn't as concerning as you make it seem," Anna defended respectfully, her smile ensuring she meant well. "The blonde girl, that's Rosalie, and the big dark-haired guy, Emmett. They're, like, a thing. I'm not even sure that's legal," Jessica explains brushing past Anna's comment for the sake of her gossip. "Jess, like Anna said, they're not actually related," Angela reminded her — Anna sending her a thankful smile. "Yeah, but they live together. It's weird," Jessica argued back but Anna shrugged. "They look happy together, and they're cute. It's sweet," Anna defended — she wasn't sure why she was defending them but she let it happen as it felt right.

"And, okay, the little dark-haired girl's Alice. She's really weird," Jessica continued as Anna looked at the Cullens. "She's like a pixie, adorable!" Anna squeaked out with an adorable grin. "And she's with Colton, the blond one with the curls, he always has that smirk on his face," Jessica explained as Colton looked towards their table — Anna and Colton locked eyes. Anna grabbed her pen suddenly and opened her journal, writing down the sudden thought that came to her head without hesitation. She frowned slightly as she read the short sentence, "They smell delightful." Anna placed her pen down before closing the journal quickly, thankful for Bella's understanding that the journal was off-limits.

"Dr Cullen's like this foster dad slash matchmaker," Jessica told them as Anna pushed the random thought away. "Maybe he'll adopt me," Angela joked but Anna and Bella's attention was taken by the remaining two Cullens that entered the cafeteria. "Who are they?" Anna breathed out softly as her eyes focused on the one on the right. "The one on the left is Edward Cullen. He's totally gorgeous, obviously, but apparently, nobody here's good enough for him. Like I care, you know?" Jessica explained bitterly. She definitely cares , Anna thought to herself. "And the other?" Anna asked, her attention purely focused on the blond. "That's Jasper, he always looks like he's in pain. He's best friends with Alice but sticks by Edward at school," Jessica explained.

Anna couldn't help but admire Jasper, his blond locks that cascaded haphazardly yet delicately over his ears and face. The pale complexion that matched his golden curls, the way his jawline seemed sculpted to perfection. Her breath hitched as he locked gazes with her — the girl's heart beating rapidly in her chest as a genuine smile widened on her face which seemed to cause Jasper's pained expression to falter. "So, yeah. Seriously, like, don't waste your time," Jessica advised the two as Anna snapped out of the staring contest with Jasper — a sudden wave of calm washed over her in a way she never felt before yet hadn't realized she yearned for. "I wasn't planning on it," Bella responded but Anna just shrugged. "I like making new friends," Anna told them as the bell rang.

Chapter Text

Chapter Three: First Impression

First impressions are almost always important — they are the deciding factor on whether a connection is worth it or if it'd be a waste of time. But in true retrospect, it's the second impression that matters more than the first — it's the second impression that shows you the worth of that potential bond.

Perhaps that is why so many give second chances — as they rely too heavily on that first impression. And that's what leads to so many broken promises, broken hearts and the devastating end to that dreadful second chance. Maybe it's time to focus on that second impression — let the real persona that's hidden within the nervousness of meeting someone new disappear and make the impression clearer.

This is why when Anna and Bella made their way into biology with Mike — who had taken the honour of leading the way — she was genuinely happy to see Edward and Jasper in the room. "Mr Molina," Mike greeted happily gaining the teacher's attention. Anna furrowed her brows as she noticed Edward covering his mouth and nose, his glare focused on the twins.

"Hey, Mike. Oh, yes. Miss Swans," Mr Molina spoke noticing the twins behind Mike who made his way to his seat. "Hi. Can I have the passes?" Mr Molina asked them, and the twins handed them over. "Thank you. Welcome to the class. Here. Here's your stuff, okay? And I got seats for both of you," Mr Molina rambled before looking at the two remaining seats in the room.

"You can sit there," Mr Molina pointed at Bella before pointing to the seat next to Edward who seemed to shrink in on himself with darkened eyes. "And you can sit in the back," Mr Molina told Anna who smiled happily, nudging her sister towards Edward before walking down to her own seat next to Jasper. The blond had his attention focused on Mr Molina rather than Anna as she sat down.

"All right, guys, today we are gonna be observing the behaviour of Planaria aka flatworms," Mr Molina told them but Anna's focus changed as she pulled her journal out and began sketching rather than writing, she smiled softly at the rough outline of a horse. Her pencil glided across the paper delicately as her hair fell over her face like a curtain shielding her from everyone else.

Jasper had turned his attention to Anna once she began sketching — catching a glimpse of the rough sketch before her hair blocked his sight. Jasper struggled with an urge to reach out and brush her hair out of the way — desperately wanting to look into her bright blue eyes that had him convinced that the sky was covered by clouds to spare the skies jealously towards the bright blue hue of her eyes.

Anna finally snapped out of her focused drawing and leaned back in her chair, she brushed her hair behind her shoulder — tucking it behind her ear. She smiled at the drawing, her heart soaring at the detailed shading of the horse. Finally noticing Jasper's burning gaze, Anna turned to look at him — blue meets ochre in a stormy haze causing both sides to halt in the moment.

Anna was stunned to silence — a rarity for the outgoing Swan twin. The unexpected colour of his eyes sent waves of curiosity throughout Anna's mind, she wanted to dive in and learn the meaning behind the earthy pigment. Her heart was beating like a drum within her ears as she admired the blond's appearance — watching as his pained expression faltered to one of pure relaxation.

And like the fates were suddenly against her — possibly jealous of her opportunity to admire the details of the Moon's very own angel — the bell rang pulling her from the stare-down. Jasper grabbed his things and walked out of the room after Edward, leaving Anna star struck with a strange new spark within her chest. She suddenly felt alive, every inch of her begging for him to return.

And then she came crashing into reality — "Anna!" Bella shouted with a confused expression. Anna looked up at her older sister with flushed cheeks, her heart hadn't slowed its pace with bought on a wave of anxiousness. "Are you alright?" Bella asked Anna noticing the way Anna's bright smile faded into a frown. "Uh, yeah," Anna answered before grabbing her things and following after her sister.

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Anna stood next to Bella as they stopped in the doorway of the office — Bella had explained to Anna that she wanted to change classes after her strange encounter with Edward. "There must be something open. Physics? Biochem?" Edward asked the receptionist, his back was tense knowing that Anna and Bella stood a few steps behind him.

"No, every class is full," She answered him before noticing Anna and Bella, "Just a minute, dears." Anna sighed noticing the look on Bella's face, she was genuinely hurt and offended by Edward's actions — Anna couldn't understand the problem that Edward had. But she didn't want to jump to conclusions that could upset her sister further.

"I'm afraid you'll have to stay in biology," The receptionist told him causing Edward to groan in annoyance. "Fine. Just — I'll just have to endure it," Edward told her before storming out of the room. Anna smiled at the receptionist as Bella walked off — Anna followed after her slowly knowing her older sister needed some alone time to process the situation that happened.

"Hey, Anna!" Tyler's voice caught the blonde's attention, she turned her gaze to him with a smile. "Hey Tyler, what's up?" Anna asked him as they stepped into the parking lot. Anna's eyes focused on the Cullens, they were all surrounding their cars talking — more like arguing. "I was wondering what that Journal is all about," Tyler asked her as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders.

"I just, uh..." Anna stuttered — an uncommon thing for her — before clearing her throat. "I have these random moments where a sudden thought hits me with such strength that I need to write it down, it's the same with images sometimes," Anna explained as she anxiously fiddled with her fingers. She could feel someone's gaze burning into her as she stopped by the Swan Ute.

She turned her head and noticed Jasper staring at them, she swallowed carefully before smiling at him. A sudden wave of calm hit Anna which slowed down her racing heart, she closed her eyes and relished in the calmness with a soft smile. "Ready to go?" Bella asked Anna after Tyler had been pulled away by his friends.

Anna opened her eyes and looked at Bella with her bright smile, "Sure am." The Swan twins made their way into their shared ute, Bella pulling out of the parking lot and driving off down the street. Jasper watched the car disappear, a small smile still resting upon his face due to the bright smile on Anna's face — he was intrigued by her.

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Charlie had asked the twins to meet him at the local diner where everyone in the community hung out — though Bella was reluctant to have dinner in public knowing her awkward relationship with Charlie, she went for the sake of her younger sister who would be able to talk endlessly creating a peaceful atmosphere for them.

Bella and Anna sat next to each other, Charlie seated across from them. "How was school?" Charlie asked them as Anna fiddled with her pen. "School was good," Anna answered with a smile — though a far off expression rested within her eyes. "That's good," Charlie replied before they fell into a semi-awkward silence until their waitress approached them.

"I just can't get over how grown-up you both are. And so gorgeous," She told them with a kind smile causing both girls to blush at the compliment. "Hey, Bella," Waylon — a close friend of Charlie's — spoke trying to gain their attention as he looked at them. "You remember me? I played Santa one year," Waylon told them, Anna smiling kindly while Bella awkwardly leaned more into her sister.

"Yeah, Waylon, she hasn't had a Christmas here since she was four," Charlie told Waylon with a subtle eye roll. "I bet I made an impression, though, didn't I?" Waylon asked with a grin. "Of course you did," Anna told him before she shoved a potato fry into her mouth. "All right, let the girls eat their burgers, Waylon," The waitress told him.

"As soon as you're done, I will bring you your favourite. Berry cobbler, remember? Your dad still has it. Every Thursday," She explained to the twins. "Thank you. That'd be great," Anna told her before resting her head on Bella's shoulder as she put sauce onto her burger. Despite the awkward tension between Bella and Charlie, Anna felt relaxed.

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"Hey, babies. So, listen, if spring training goes well, we could be moving to Florida," Renée — the twins' mother — told them over the phone as the girls snuggled together on Bella's bed. "Please insert $1.25 for an additional three minutes," An automated voice spoke gaining the twins' confused attention. "Mom, where's your cell?" Bella asked her as she ran her fingers through Anna's hair — the action relaxed both of them.

"Okay, don't laugh. I didn't lose my power cord. It ran away. Screaming. I literally repel technology," Renée answered her causing Bella and Anna to laugh quietly knowing their mother's struggle with technology. "We miss you," Anna told Renée with a sigh. "Oh, babies, I miss you too," Renée replied with a sincere sigh.

"But tell me more about your school. Now, what are the kids like? Are there any cute guys? Are they being nice to both of you?" Renée asked with excitement. "Well, they are all very welcoming," Bella answered as the twins thought about their new friends. "Tell me all about it," Renée asked but Bella was hesitant and Anna noticed the anxious expression.

"We would love to but we have homework to do," Anna told her — Bella sent her a grateful smile knowing that Renée would accept Anna's words. "Okay. I love you both," Renée told them. "Love you too!" Both girls replied before Bella hung up the phone. "Thank you," Bella breathed out as she hugged Anna, the two girls smiling in the silence.

"What was up with Edward?" Anna asked Bella in a quiet whisper. "I don't know," Bella answered, and it was clear it was truly bothering her. "You should confront him," Anna told Bella with a smile. "You think?" Bella asked as she looked at her younger sister. "For sure," Anna answered instantly without any doubt. "All right, I will," Bella replied to her, feeling confident thanks to Anna.

Anna wished Bella goodnight before heading into her room, she walked towards her bag and pulled out her journal before letting out a sigh. Sitting down on the window seat by the window, she pulled a blanket over her and began to sketch a new drawing within the pages of her book. A quiet sigh escaped her lips at the realization that she had begun a rough sketch of Jasper.

She put her book to the side and looked out the window, she gasped quietly at the person standing on the edge of the forest looking straight at her. Within a sudden blink, he was gone leaving Anna stunned. She wasn't certain if she was seeing things or not — perhaps she was just tired which proved possible as a wave of exhaustion hit her.

She left her journal sitting on the window seat and trudged her way over to her bed, pulling the thick duvet back before climbing into the plush warmth that surrounded her as she pulled the duvet over her and curled up. She couldn't help but feel as though something was missing, the way she slept proved there was a missing puzzle piece in her life as she let her dreams take over.

Unknown to her, the person had snuck their way into her room — their focus was on Anna as she slept soundly, her quiet purr-like snores escaping her lips in a musical beat. They turned their attention to the open journal, moving the blanket slightly to see the rough sketch of them. Jasper smiled softly at the sight before sitting on the window seat — waves of calm crashing over both of them.

Chapter Text

Chapter Four: Creating Bonds

Anna had woken up on the weekend with multiple messages from Tyler, Jessica, Angela, Eric and Mike asking if she wanted to hang out with them. And so, with a tired yawn despite the long night of sleep - Anna set up different hangout times with each of them. She was keen to make new friends and hang out with them.

She had decided to do breakfast with Angela, so the blonde quickly made her way into the bathroom and went through her routine - shaving, moisturising, skincare. She washed her hair with her Jasmine-scented shampoo and conditioner before cleaning her body with her Vanilla body scrub and cleanser. Once she was feeling fresh and clean, she dried herself off.

Anna had decided on some black denim jeans, a Tom and Jerry graphic T-shirt, her winter boots and her usual winter coat for warmth. She spent almost ten minutes trying to decide between a ponytail, a shoulder braid or her naturally wavy locks - the shoulder braid won in the end as she pulled on a black knitted beanie - Finally happy with her look, she headed out.

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"Okay. But I don't think it's that obvious," Angela defended as she stirred her hot cocoa nervously. "Trust me, Ange. Your crush on Eric is obvious to everyone but the boy himself. And I haven't even known you guys long and I could pick up on it," Anna replied with a teasing grin on her face. "Plus, Jessica's obvious thing for Mike is clear as day too," Anna added.

"Well, Jess has liked Mike for years, she's just never really made a move," Angela expressed hoping to brush past the topic of her crushing on Eric. "Don't worry about that. Mike's continually being deflected and rejected by Bella and me, so we'll nudge him in Jessica's direction," Anna explained to Angela, the two girls laughing about the situation.

"But don't think I've forgotten about your crush on Eric. I totally believe that you and Eric were made for each other," Anna cooed with a bright smile, the dull diner brightening with her. "It's just a matter of time and I predict that you two will go to prom together," Anna told Angela without a hint of doubt or hesitation that both inspired and concerned Angela. "All right. Let's change the topic," Angela pleaded.

"Fine..." Anna dragged out dramatically making Angela laugh before the two began talking aimlessly about random topics that varied from photography to music, the two girls laughing and taking photos the whole time - they both held many similarities in their passions and confided in each other about their career goals.

Anna was glad she became friends with someone so down-to-earth and shy, it was a soothing experience for her everyday bright and bubbly aura. Angela Weber was a fairly insightful person and she often doubted herself. She knew when someone needed space and she wasn't too afraid to speak out when it was necessary - And Anna adored that about her.

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Anna's next stop of the day was in Seattle - lunch with Tyler. Tyler had picked Anna up and the two of them headed out to Seattle, the duo singing random songs at the top of their lungs during the drive. Tyler laughed as Anna pointed out every red car she saw while he pointed to every yellow car he saw - red clearly won which left Tyler paying for lunch.

The two had pulled up to a small diner with a retro vibe, they made their way into the diner looking around in pure amazement at the sixties design and memorabilia. They made their way towards a booth by the window, the best friends sat across from each other. "Alright, I know it's my shout but please... don't make my pockets hurt," Tyler pleaded.

Anna rolled her eyes with a sly smirk on her face which did not ease Tyler. "Hello, dears. What can I get ya?" An older waitress asked them, a notepad in hand and her hair done up in a tight bun. "I'd love... the bacon cheeseburger, a side of fries and a... Vanilla milkshake; please," Anna asked politely, receiving a smile as the waitress - Trudy - wrote it down.

"And what can I get you, young man?" Trudy asked Tyler who had let out a breath of relief. "I'll get the same but I'll trade out the milkshake for a pink lemonade," Tyler ordered with a charming smile. "No worries, kids. I'll be right back with your orders," Trudy told them before making her way behind the counter leaving Tyler and Anna to themselves.

"I don't know what you were so worried about, Ty. I'm not a big eater," Anna reassured him with a wink before resting her hands under her chin - her elbows holding her arms up and balancing her head. "Now, tell me... Why claim me as your best friend?" Anna asked curiously. "In complete honesty, I'm not sure. We just... clicked and I couldn't give anyone else that label," Tyler answered her.

"Okay, I like that response," Anna replied as she leaned back in her seat, relaxing completely. "Now tell me, Annabeth Swan..." Tyler began before pausing for dramatic effect. "Who would win in a fight? Superman or Batman?" Tyler asked her, the two began discussing the topic on separate ends of the debate. Trudy bought their food over, smiling at the two as they laughed together.

After lunch, the two best friends made their way to the local arcade where they challenged each other at as many games as possible - learning more about each other like Anna's obsession with true crime and her love for horror movies or Tyler's obsession with romantic comedies and his love for paranormal explorations. By the end of their arcade session, the two were worn out.

Tyler Crowley was Annabeth Swan's best friend - he balanced her out with his charismatic persona and his teasing innuendos. The jock wasn't a stereotype and a complete sweetheart, Anna truly felt she could confide in him safely and without feeling judged. She was beyond grateful for Tyler's friendship because she truly felt lost without her platonic soulmate.

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Tyler dropped Anna off in Port Angeles where she was meeting up with Jessica to upgrade her closet and do some window shopping. "Okay, so, like, I didn't know what else to tell her but the blue just did not suit her darker skin tone - I mean... was it too harsh?" Jessica asked Anna as they walked away from the third shop that they had gone to - And left due to Jessica's unwanted opinions.

"It wasn't mean, Jess. She just wasn't all that interested in your opinion - no matter how accurate it may be. Don't take it to heart," Anna told her as she held open a door for Jessica to walk in. "Yeah, you're right. But I'm so glad you bought that plaid skirt - it is so you!" Jessica cheered happily as she practically bounced on the spot. "Thanks, Jess, it was a great suggestion," Anna replied.

The two girls spent more money on different outfits - Jessica occasionally commenting on Anna's obsession with graphic T-shirts - But Anna allowed Jessica some control over her choices to keep them both happy. "Alright. Now, let's look at some dresses to balance out your colossal amount of jeans," Jessica told Anna with a clap of her hands.

Jessica Stanley's outgoing, energetic and hyperactive personality was intriguing to Annabeth. And though Jessica had her flaws - like when she gives Bella backhanded compliments when they first met or the fake cheery persona - Anna thought she was a sprite of light that added to the drama and entertainment in her previously dull life.

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Anna's busy day ended with dinner at the diner with Charlie and Bella - the Swan family trio spoke about their days, or more so, teased Anna about her day with her and Bella's friends. They were, for the first time in a long time, like a close family with no issues or awkward tension between them and it was brightening Anna's aura that often relaxed those around her.

After dinner, Anna and Bella met up with Mike and Eric to see a movie together - a comedy per Anna's request. They all ordered some popcorn and snacks before sitting down and watching the movie, they laughed with each other and threw popcorn at one another. It was nice to experience teenage normality every once and a while.

Eric Yorkie was a total geek - that much everyone knew but he had quite the sense of humour that often made Anna laugh. Mike Newton - though desperate in the dating department - was a popular boy who didn't stick to stereotypes, choosing to hang out with his lifelong friends. Anna enjoyed their company as they often stirred each other and it was great entertainment.

By the time Anna got home from her long day of social interaction, Anna was absolutely exhausted. She trudged up the stairs in her tired state, throwing her winter coat carelessly onto her window seat before changing into some sweatpants and a tank top, pulling her hair out of its braid before curling up under her blankets - falling asleep the moment her head hit the pillow.

Chapter Text

Chapter Five: Second Impressions

While Bella had planned to confront Edward about his rude actions - encouraged by her younger sister - Anna had the plan to introduce herself formally to Jasper. She didn't know what it was about him but she felt this spark, something so foreign yet so familiar and every part of her was pleading to be in his presence again.

However, when Bella and Anna arrived at school the next day - neither were in class leaving Bella and Anna confused. The twins weren't sure what to make of it, they had many theories and no answers leaving them unsure about the entire situation. While Bella focused on her textbooks for class, Anna felt a strange hole within her chest without Jasper being around.

More days passed - but no shows which only concerned Anna and confused Bella. And while their new friends were great at distracting the twins - they found themselves missing the silent brooding foster siblings despite the distance in their close vicinity. Anna had been having more frequent zone-outs which began to concern Bella and their friends.

But Anna assured them it was fine, she wasn't necessarily bothered by the strange moments as her journal became full of random distant thoughts and drawings. Anna had promised them that if she felt overwhelmed she'd tell them straight away which eased all of them. Especially Tyler who had practically become Anna's best friend due to their matching bubbly personalities, the older boy was beyond worried about her - secretly hoping Jasper would show up to ease her.

The two consistently teased Mike due to his clear crush on Bella despite the brunette Swan ignoring - or oblivious - to his flirting attempts. It was always amusing to them because they knew Jessica had a thing for Mike which often left the perky little brunette salty about Mike's attention focused on Bella. Tyler and Anna even had a bet for when Mike and Jessica would get together - the two certain it would be around prom.

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Anna laughed as Bella slipped on the ice by the steps, Charlie quickly moved to help her out after he pulled the Ute into the driveway. "You alright?" Charlie asked as Anna calmed down from laughing. "Yeah, I'm good. Ice doesn't really help the uncoordinated," Bella told him once she was stable, sending a glare to Anna who was still muffling a laugh.

"Yeah. That's why I had some new tyres put on the truck. Old ones were getting pretty bald," Charlie told her as Anna linked her arm with Bella's. "Thanks, Dad," Anna replied, her bright smile easing the awkward tension. "Well, I'll probably be late for dinner. I gotta head down to Mason County," Charlie informed them as they got into the car, Bella's door opened so Charlie could talk to them.

"What happened?" Anna asked straight away, leaning over her sister. "A security guard at the Grisham Mill got killed by some kind of animal," Charlie answered her. "An animal?" Bella asked him with a raised brow. "You're not in Phoenix anymore, Bells. Anyway, I figured I'd lend a hand," Charlie told them. "Be careful," The twins told him in unison bringing a smile to his face. "Always am," Charlie told them before letting them leave for school.

Anna pulled her new coat on tighter around her as she climbed out of the car at school. She had decided on some black jeans and a long-sleeved sweatshirt, her hair covered by a beige knitted beanie. "Hey trouble," Tyler called as he walked over, his arm resting around Anna's shoulders as they walked into the school where Eric was waiting.

The four of them continued their way to biology - Tyler ended up splitting off from them. "Prom committee is a chick thing, but I gotta cover the paper anyway, and they need a guy to help choose the music, so I need one of your playlists," Eric explained to the twins, Anna nodded happily knowing she made hers and Bella's playlist from her love of different music.

"Hey, listen, I was wondering, did you have a date to..." Eric began asking Bella until Mike walked up, shaking his hat above Bella's head causing water to fall over her - the sight making Anna laugh. "What's up, Arizona? Huh? How you liking the rain, girl? Better get used to it quick, girl," Mike teased as Anna shook her head. "Yeah, Mike, hey, you're real cute, man," Eric told him with a bitter tone.

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Anna and Bella's attention was taken by the familiar face of Edward Cullen who was sitting at his usual desk. Anna's attention moved from him to Jasper instantly, her heart rate picked up as soon as they locked eyes. Once again, Blue met Ochre in a stormy connection that sparked a chill down Anna's spine. She swallowed dryly before taking in a deep breath - taking careful steps towards the table.

She sat down and instantly was met with a wave of calm - she relished in the feeling, letting it completely take over her. "I'm sorry, I didn't get the chance to introduce myself last week. I'm Jasper Hale. And you're Anna, right?" Jasper asked, his Southern drawl scratched an itch within Anna's eardrums - the sound was like a soothing melody that echoed within her mind though the real sound was so much more pleasurable than the echo.

"Yes. It's a pleasure to meet you more formally," Anna replied to him - noticing the way his lip twitched up in an almost smile. "Onion root tip cells, that's what's on your slides right now. Okay? So, separate and label them into the phases of mitosis, and the first partners that get it right are gonna win the Golden Onion," Mr Molina explained before holding up an onion that was, indeed, golden.

"Right..." Anna breathed out with a raised brow at the Golden Onion before shaking her head. "I don't understand why they have to reward people all the time just for cooperation," Anna rambled as Jasper watched her. "Anyway... I noticed that you weren't present over the past week or so," Anna told him - trying to play it off as nothing despite the pure joy she felt seeing he was back.

"Yeah, my family and I were out of town for a couple of days. Personal reasons," Jasper explained to her as she looked through the microscope. "It's Prophase," Anna told him with a small smile before leaning back in her seat. "Well, I'm glad you're back," Anna told him before her eyes widened in panic.

"You know, so you aren't missing any more classes and, uh, such... I, uh.." Anna rambled before putting her head in her hands. "Cute..." Jasper whispered which caused Anna's face to flush red at the comment, her heart to race and a quiet squeak left her lips - which didn't go unnoticed by Jasper who smirked at the reaction.

"I'm glad you enjoy my presence," Jasper told her, his Southern accent caused her stomach to do flips. "I, uh, didn't say, um, that. But, uh... never mind," Anna said after she noticed the smirk on Jasper's face, the Southern boy's smirk widened at her sudden submission to his words knowing he was right - Anna had never been so flustered in the presence of the opposite gender before.

To distract herself, Anna focused on the class task - looking through the microscope despite the burning gaze on the side of her face taunting her to look back at him with the same intensity. "It's anaphase," Anna told him before writing it down, she pushed the microscope towards Jasper causing their hands to brush against each other.

The chill of his hand caused Anna to twitch slightly, the sudden contact surged a strange tingle starting from the point of impact throughout her whole body - she felt a moment of pure ecstasy before it faded. She was curious about his cold hands before she was reminded of the weather due to the rain hitting the window panes, the perfect reason for his cold hands.

"Anaphase. You're either good at this or we're both wrong," Jasper said to her once he noticed she wasn't gonna question the cold hands. "Let's hope the former rather than the latter," Anna teased with a smile as Jasper prepared the next slide. "So why move to the wettest place in the continental US?" Jasper asked her - he wanted to learn more about her.

"Well, my mom remarried to my stepfather Phil, he's a minor league baseball player, and they wanted to spend some time on the road so Bella and I moved in with our father so we wouldn't miss school and wouldn't invade on their relationship," Anna explained openly - she felt safe around him. "It's metaphase," Jasper told her with a smile, "Need to double-check it?" Anna laughed softly, the sound like a melody to Jasper.

"I trust your judgment," Anna answered as she wrote it down. "Why thank you, ma'am," Jasper replied causing Anna's heart to skip a beat, his fluent drawl of Southern perfection left his kissable lips leaving Anna star-struck. "D-Don't do that," Anna stuttered out which only made Jasper smirk - He swore that his own heart would skip a beat. . . If it was beating.

"My apologies, Anna," Jasper replied as Anna's eyes glazed over - a familiar sight to Jasper causing his brows to furrow. He watched as Anna pulled her journal out almost robotically before opening to a new page, she picked up a pencil before letting her pencil glide delicately across the page. Edward and Bella had turned their gazes to them, and Bella smiled softly.

Jasper watched the paper, his focus flicking from Anna's sudden drawing to her face which held a blank expression yet a glint of concentration. She suddenly gasped quietly before leaning back in her seat, she furrowed her brows at the drawing that seemed to be a piece of a vehicle - a large dent in the side of it with a hand by it.

"Anna?" Jasper asked softly to ensure she was out of her thoughts - she looked down in embarrassment at the sudden strange behaviour in front of the first person she had ever felt an attraction to. "Hey..." Jasper breathed out - not that he needed to - before bravely moving a strand of her hair from her face.

"You are very talented," Jasper told her as he motioned to the picture she had subconsciously drawn. "T-Thanks... I don't even know how I suddenly became a good artist. I used to be terrible," Anna told him before closing the journal, she didn't understand the drawing and hoped it was just a random thought her mind produced.

"So I assume you don't mind the weather then?" Jasper asked Anna who turned her gaze to him with a raised brow. "You're asking me about the weather after what you just witnessed?" Anna asked him - not noticing the way he smirked at the familiar question. "I was just curious. You're from Arizona yet you seem to adjust to the cold naturally," Jasper explained to her.

"I don't mind the cold. It's a big change from Arizona but I've visited Forks a few times and I do love the rain," Anna expressed happily. "When was the last time you were in Forks?" Jasper asked her, he was curious if it was recent. "Four months ago was my most recent visit," Anna told him as she fiddled with the sleeve of her sweatshirt.

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Before Jasper could speak further, Mr Molina spoke up and announced that Bella and Edward had won the Golden Onion - the bell rang instantly afterwards. Anna packed up her things and shoved them into her bag, "Um, I'll see you around." Anna left before Jasper could respond, she kept her head down until she got outside.

She leaned back against the ute where she began taking deep breaths to calm herself down from both happiness and embarrassment. She lifted her head as Bella approached her, the two had a silent conversation through looks ensuring they were both okay before they both sighed equally and leaned back against the ute next to each other.

"So did you confront him?" Anna asked her with a concerned expression. "Yes and no. Mainly no," Bella answered as Anna rested her head on Bella's shoulder. "Well, I spoke with Jasper," Anna told Bella who smirked, elbowing her sister's side teasingly. "And how did that go?" Bella asked Anna as the two subconsciously looked over at the Cullens.

"He's Southern... his accent is to die for, he has great manners and he... called me cute," Anna expressed distantly, her tone came out dreamy and Bella was amused - neither of them noticing the small smile on Jasper's face. "If I didn't know any better, I'd say this is the beginning of a crush," Bella told her with a teasing tone - she began to think Anna would never be attracted to another person.

"Honesty... I wouldn't be surprised," Anna replied without a doubt, she didn't care how others would react and she was completely comfortable with the fact they had just met - Anna Swan was absolutely beginning to crush on the Southern prince, Jasper Hale - and she was completely okay with it because there was no such thing as too soon when it felt this natural, right? Though on the other side of the parking lot, Jasper was smiling to himself as his sisters watched him with curiosity.

Chapter Text

Chapter Six: Car Accident

The next day, after school, Bella and Anna stood side by side against the Ute. Bella was reading a novel with an earphone in her ear while Anna was reading through her journals new entries from the day of classes that seemed to drag on for her. The twins were trying to relax after a day of stress catching up to the others, thankfully they were almost caught up completely.

"Yo, Bella! Anna!" Eric called to the twins with a playful smirk but the twins simply showcased the books in hand with sheepish smiles causing Eric to frown before looking at their crowd of friends. Anna let out a sigh as her head pounded slightly, she put her journal into her bag and put it into the car before rubbing her temples.

The sudden screeching of wheels against icy roads caught her attention, and both Anna and Bella looked up to see Tyler's van lose control. Anna's eyes widened in fear when she was suddenly pulled into someone's chest protectively, her heart was pounding in her own chest despite the lack of air in her lungs.

Slowly, Anna began to pull away from the person before looking up at their face - Sky meets Earth. Anna swallowed slowly as she realized Jasper had pulled her to safety from the potentially life-threatening incident resulting in her being crushed by her best friend's van ─ which was not on her list of acceptable ways to die.

And like reality snapped back, Anna remembered her sister was standing next to her. "Bella!" Anna gasped as she turned to her sister but she froze, not from seeing that she was okay and in the arms of Edward, but the dent in the side of the van that matched her drawing from the day before.

"Dial 911!" Someone shouted as Jasper hesitantly let go of Anna, he walked away with Edward, their foster siblings watching carefully before they all got into their cars. "I already called. They're gonna send somebody over soon," Angela's voice was clear to Anna as she stared at the dent, her hand in Bella's.

"Bella, Trouble... I'm so sorry. I panicked," Tyler pleaded with a guilty expression, Anna mustered up a small smile to assure him they were okay. "It's okay, Ty. You're the one hurt," Anna told him as she finally stood up and opened his door, helping him out of the van carefully before checking the open wound on his head.

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Anna sat on the bed next to her sister in the hospital, and Tyler sat on the opposite bed being looked at by a nurse after Anna had to calm him down enough to let the nurse do her job. He had been sitting with a guilty expression on his face the whole time, the sight was painful for Anna because it wasn't his fault that he lost control on the icy roads; it wasn't like he did it on purpose.

"Girls, are you both okay?" Charlie asked as he walked into the room, a slight glare was sent to Tyler. "You and I are gonna talk," Charlie warned Tyler ─ Anna didn't like it. "Dad! We're fine. Calm down," Anna told him, Charlie calmed down instantly. "I'm sorry, Trouble, Bella... I tried to stop," Tyler pleaded once again, the guilt returning after Anna finally calmed it.

"We know. It's okay," Bella replied to him with Anna nodding along with her. "No. It sure as hell is not okay," Charlie instantly stated in his fatherly tone. "Dad, it wasn't his fault," Anna defended in a harsh tone you wouldn't usually hear from her. "You could've been killed. You understand that?" Charlie snapped back, unaffected by her harsh tone.

"Yes. But we weren't!" Anna argued with him as a sudden wave of calm washed over her, she took a deep breath and let herself calm down. "You can kiss your license goodbye," Charlie told Tyler causing Anna to roll her eyes before tiredly resting her head on Bella's shoulder, who in turn rested her head on Anna's.

"I heard the chief's daughters were here," A flawless doctor spoke as he walked into the room, Anna smiled softly. "Dr Cullen," Charlie greeted him causing the twins to sit up straight. "Charlie," Dr Cullen greeted back. "I've got these two, Jackie," Dr Cullen told the woman in the room. "Isabella and Annabeth," Dr Cullen greeted them.

"Bella / Anna," The twins corrected in unison, the response left an amused smile on Dr Cullen's face. "Well, Bella and Anna, looks like you both took quite a spill. How do you feel?" Dr Cullen asked them. "Good," The twins answered. "Look here," Dr Cullen instructed Bella before shining the light in her eyes.

"Anna," Dr Cullen instructed with a nod before doing the same to Anna. "You both might experience some post-traumatic stress or disorientation, but your vitals look good. No signs of head trauma," Dr Cullen explained as he stepped back. "I think you'll both be just fine," Dr Cullen assured them with a kind smile.

"I'm so sorry, Trouble. I'm really-" Tyler pleaded to his best friend before being cut off by Charlie pulling the curtain closed between them. "You know, it would've been a whole lot worse if Edward or Jasper wasn't there. They knocked us out of the way," Bella told them as Anna sighed, she still wasn't sure what to make of the situation knowing they were across the parking lot; a theory playing in her mind.

"Edward? Jasper? Your boys?" Charlie asked Dr Cullen who seemed to falter slightly at the mention. "Yeah, it was amazing," Bella added as Anna grabbed her hand. "We're just grateful they had gotten there in time," Anna spoke before sending Bella a look, Anna had picked up on Dr Cullen's hesitance. "I mean, they got to us so fast. They were nowhere near us," Bella continued, letting go of Anna's hand.

"Sounds like you were both very lucky," Dr Cullen told them, sending a grateful smile to Anna who had attempted to change the conversation. "Charlie," Dr Cullen nodded to him before making his way out of the room. "I gotta go sign some paperwork. You should... You should probably call your mom," Charlie told the twins who both sighed at his words.

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Anna had stepped away from Bella to call their mother ─ after volunteering to inform Renée that they were indeed okay. After spending almost seven minutes reassuring Renée that they were fine, Anna made her way towards the entrance of the hospital where Bella told her to meet her after the phone call that Bella didn't want to make.

She was trapped within her thoughts; Ochre eyes, and cold hands, moved quickly from a distance and with enough strength to stop a van with a single hand. But it couldn't be what Anna thought it was because they didn't have those horrific blood-red eyes that seemed to drown you in fear. She wasn't sure what to make of it but she trusted she would know when fate decided it was time for her to know.

"Anna?" Jasper's voice pulled her from her thoughts as she stumbled on her own feet. "Hey, Jasper... Uh, thank you for today," Anna told him straight away, her mind roaming through a thousand and one questions about it, but not a single one slipped from her lips because she knew ─ deep down ─ she already knew the truth.

"You don't need to thank me, Anna. I'm just happy that you are alright," Jasper replied as he looked her over for any injuries that Dr Cullen could've missed, despite knowing that his father would've spotted any wounds. "Welp, I already did and I won't take it back," Anna told him, her cheeky persona appearing naturally as she smiled brightly up at him.

"Well then, I accept your thanks, ma'am," Jasper replied with a small smirk as he watched Anna's cheeks flush red, her heart racing in her chest as she bit her bottom lip nervously. Her whole body responded in such a flattering way that Jasper had to fight his urge to pull her into his arms and kiss those lips he couldn't seem to stop thinking about, much to Edward's distaste.

Jasper was convinced that if he could sleep ─ if he could dream ─ Anna would be the only focus his mind cared about. She'd be in every dream, in every nightmare, in every thought. The blonde woman standing in front of him was consuming every ounce of his being, And he was accepting the defeat.

"What did I say about calling me "ma'am"?" Anna asked him in a soft voice, the tone made Jasper swoon as he stepped closer despite Rosalie and Edward's eyes on them. "My apologies, Darlin'," Jasper whispered to her. The reaction to his words was everything and more to him as her knees seemed to shake, threatening to buckle right then and there. The emotions swirling through Anna were new and unique and she never wanted them to fade.

"Jasper!" Edward called gaining both Anna and Jasper's attention, the two clearly unimpressed with the interruption. "I've got to go," Jasper told her before brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "I understand. Thank you... again," Anna told him before she made her way past Rosalie and Edward, sending them both a shy smile before heading out to meet with Bella.

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"He tried to gaslight you?" Anna asked Bella as the two sat on Bella's bed, an ice cream tub between them. "Yeah! He went on to tell me that he was next to us and that I must've hit my head," Bella told her before scooping some ice cream onto her spoon and shoving it into her mouth with a frown. "Then what happened?" Anna asked Bella enjoying smaller scoops of the double chocolate ice cream.

"Then I confronted him about the dent in the van, which was caused by his own hand and he claimed no one would believe me anyway," Bella rambled with an annoyed sigh. "And then I said I wouldn't tell anyone ─ besides you, of course ─ and that I just wanted to know the truth," Bella continued before looking at Anna who had a small encouraging smile on her face.

"And how did he handle that?" Anna asked her after another scoop of ice cream that melted sweetly in her mouth. "He said, "Can't you just thank me and get over it?" Like as if he didn't just ─ I don't know ─ supernaturally saved my life," Bella gritted out before running her hand through her hair. "I mean... I get it. Maybe it's better and safer for us not to know," Anna told her with a shrug.

Bella furrowed her brows before looking at her younger twin, "You didn't question Jasper?" Anna swallowed her scoop of ice cream before sighing, deciding she had enough ice cream. "Trust me... I had a million and one question that I wanted to ask him but... I couldn't. If he wants me to know, then he'll tell me," Anna answered Bella with a slight frown.

Besides, I have quite the idea of what exactly they are, Anna thought to herself before closing the lid on the ice cream tub. "Trust me, the curiosity is drowning me like the chaotic waves of a stormy ocean but... forcing an answer will only create distance between two people, if we're meant to know then we'll know," Anna explained to Bella before taking the tub downstairs, slipping it back into the freezer.

Anna sighed before she headed back upstairs, she looked towards the bathroom after hearing the shower turn on, and Bella had decided to have a shower. Anna walked into her room and closed the door behind her, leaning back against it with a sigh. She took a moment to let her mind wander before she walked over to her bedside drawers, pulling open the top drawer where a few journals sat.

She pulled out the bottom one before opening to a bookmarked page, a Polaroid photo fell into her hand, and two people stood with cheeky smiles on their faces. "Wherever you are, G. I miss you and I hope you are keeping out of trouble," Anna whispered smiling down at the photo of herself and an older brunette man with bright blood-red eyes.

She slipped the photo back in between the pages, closing the journal and slipping it back into its place. Once Bella left the bathroom, Anna headed in to have a nice relaxing hot shower before she went to bed. Unknown to her, a blond ochre-eyed man stood outside her home focusing on the soothing melody that Anna sang while under the water, her existence calming him and the monster inside.

Chapter Text

Chapter Seven: Field Trip

Anna stood with Tyler, her back to his chest and he hugged her for warmth as the blonde had seemed more pale than usual ─ Tyler now extra protective due to the incident he continues to blame himself for ─ and neither of them noticed the small glare on the Southern blond who had been watching the best friends closely.

"You know that you don't need to keep me warm," Anna told Tyler as she tilted her head to look up at him. "You wore a dress, Trouble. It's freezing," Tyler told her with a sigh. "I have winter stockings underneath and my winter coat over it, plus it's got long sleeves," Anna defended but Tyler just rubs his hands over hers for more warmth.

"I need everybody's permission slips, okay?" Mr Molina asked the class, Bella handed hers and Anna's to him. "Are you sure you are okay?" Tyler asked Anna as they walked towards the bus together. "Yes, Ty. If anything, I'm just a little tired and that's all," Anna assured him as they approached Bella, the brunette smiling at the best friends.

"Look at you two, huh? You're alive," Mike cheered as he walked up to the twins and Tyler. "I know, yeah. False alarm, I guess," Bella replied as she looked over at the Cullens. "Now, I wanted to ask you, you know, if, you know - it's like a month away, but - do you wanna go to prom with me?" Mike asked Bella, not noticing her attention focused on Edward.

"Poor Mike," Anna whispered to Tyler who nodded with a smirk. "So, what do you think?" Mike asked gaining Bella's attention again. "About what?" Bella asked causing Mike to deflate. "Do you want to go? To prom? With me?" Mike asked her with an anxious smile as Tyler and Anna held in the urge to laugh.

"I- Prom. Dancing. Not such a good idea for me," Bella told him sheepishly which made Anna and Tyler cringe. "We have something that weekend anyway. We're going to Jacksonville, kind of ditching prom," Anna added in hopes of saving Mike from any further embarrassment she knew Tyler would tease him about.

"Oh... You can't go another weekend?" Mike asked them both. "Non-refundable tickets," Bella answered quickly. "You should ask Jessica. I know for a fact that she wants to go with you," Anna told Mike with her bright smile, the boy nodded before looking over to the perky brunette. "And when are you gonna ask Lauren?" Anna asked Tyler as they walked to the bus door.

"I will in the next few weeks," Tyler told her confidently but Anna saw through it. "Oh, Ty. Lauren has a major thing for you, she literally glares in jealousy whenever I'm near you," Anna told him before the two of them looked over at the girl in mention who was glaring at them till she was spotted. "Oh wow..." Tyler breathed out as Anna laughed and shook her head.

"I was serious about ditching Prom anyway," Anna told Tyler as they walked onto the bus, sitting down next to each other. "Why? I thought girls love prom?" Tyler asked with furrowed brows. "Stereotypes. Not all girls do. I mean, the idea of dressing up is fun, but I don't know. I'm just personally not a fan of such a crowd," Anna answered him honestly.

"You are one of the most outspoken, outgoing social bees and large crowds are not your scene?" Tyler asked her as she rested her head on his shoulder. "I don't know. I love socializing but even I have a limit before it gets too much," Anna told him with a quiet yawn. "You, dear Anna, are a strange yet beautiful soul," Tyler told her before resting his head on top of hers, the blonde smiled as she closed her eyes.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

"Eggshells, carrot tops. Compost is cool," Mr Molina told the class as they walked through the greenhouse. "Now, stuff that in there, Eric," Mr Molina told him as they turned the compost into tea for the plants. "Now, I am gonna make a steaming cup of compost tea," Mr Molina told them before holding up the cup.

"Dare you to drink it," Anna told Tyler as Tyler looked into the cup in his hand, the teenage boy looked up at her with a raised brow. "Double dare," Tyler replied back but before they could shake on it, Mr Molina took the cup from their hands. "Don't drink it! It's for the plants," Mr Molina scolded them before walking after Eric and Mike who were messing with Angela and Jessica.

"There goes that plan," Anna told Tyler as they continued walking through the greenhouse. "Go ask Lauren!" Anna told Tyler pushing him towards the girl who was walking alone. "Hey, Lauren!" Anna cheered as she stopped by her with an anxious Tyler. "I'll leave you to it," Anna told Tyler with a wink before she walked ahead of them, a proud smirk resting on her face.

Anna looked up to see Bella and Edward walking together, she knew for a fact that Bella was quizzing him about the incident. "Playing matchmaker?" Jasper spoke as he stepped up next to Anna. "Well... I get bored," Anna replied to him as she noticed Bella's shoulder tensing, she let out a sigh and focused on her older sister, Bella suddenly relaxed.

"So out of boredom, you nudge your friends into asking someone to prom?" Jasper asked her with a small smile. "Tyler and Lauren have been crushing on each other for a while, it's only natural they go to prom together," Anna told Jasper as she spotted some Jasmine's, she walked over with a smile.

"I love these flowers. Jasmine's are symbolic of faithfulness, love, purity and inspiration," Anna told Jasper as he stepped up next to her. "Beautiful," Jasper told her, his gaze focused on Anna rather than the flowers. "They are," Anna breathed out as her fingers lightly grazed the delicate petals that were slowly dying from the cold.

"I wasn't talking about the flowers, darlin'," Jasper whispered to her causing Anna's breath to hitch and her cheeks to flush pink. The duo walked away from the flowers and continued through the greenhouse, Anna's hand brushed against Jasper's causing tingles to spark throughout the place of impact, a feeling she was begging to experience again.

"Anna! Guess who just asked me to prom?" Jessica cheered as she approached Anna and Jasper, the latter stepping away due to the new presence. "Who?" Anna asked despite knowing full well who had asked her. "Mike. Yeah, I totally thought that Mike was gonna ask Bella but he asked me," Jessica explained happily, the smile on her face was not disappearing any time soon.

"You two will be great together," Anna told Jessica before her focus landed on Edward and Jasper having a semi-heated argument before Jasper stormed off away from him. "I'll talk later," Anna told Jessica before following after Jasper, she headed out of the greenhouse spotting Tyler and Mike messing with worms and tormenting the girls.

Her gaze finally landed on Jasper and she made her way towards him with no further hesitation. "Are you okay?" Anna asked him softly once she reached him, he didn't turn his head to look at her causing her to furrow her brows. "Jasper?" Anna whispered, the tone causing a shiver through Jasper, a feeling he didn't think was possible for him.

"We can't be friends," Jasper gritted out, the words caused Anna to frown as an uncomfortable itch built up in her chest. "Why not? I don't understand," Anna asked him as she tried to step closer but Jasper stepped back. "We just can't be friends, Annabeth," Jasper stated more sternly, he heard the plummet of her heart at those words.

Anna suddenly felt small in the moment, she had never felt such a pained itch within her chest before and something told her it was because of his words but something begged for her to fight him on his words. "Is this because of the incident? Do you regret saving me?" Anna asked him, her tone was small and broken and Jasper hated it.

"You think I regret saving you?" Jasper asked her, finally turning his gaze to her, watery blue meets an abyss. "Do you?" Anna pushed as she stepped forward, thankful he didn't step back again. "Of course not," Jasper breathed out to her, the broken look in her eyes made him feel like he was suffocating, she made him feel human ─ alive.

"Then... why ─ why can't we be friends?" Anna asked him, she hesitated before resting her hand on his forearm, the pleasurable sparks pulsing through the impact spot. "Because... I don't want to hurt you... ever..." Jasper whispered to her before stepping back, his gaze locked with Edward. Anna turned her head to see Edward glaring at the two, she dropped her hand and sighed.

"I don't believe that, Jas. You'd never hurt me physically... emotionally and mentally, maybe... but never physically," Anna told him sternly before she turned around to walk away, she turned her head to look at Jasper, "And the issues between Bella's curiosity and Edward's deflection, they have nothing to do with us. So why let that change things?"

"What if I do? What if I'm not the good guy? What if I'm the bad guy?" Jasper asked Anna desperately. "I know you aren't the bad guy, Jasper. And I understand that you might not be the good guy either. But I don't care either way. You make me feel alive and I am not losing that," And after saying that Anna walked off to find Tyler, trying to ignore the pained itch in her chest.

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Anna stood with Tyler, the two in the middle of an intense thumb war as Jessica and Angela were talking about random topics. "La Push, baby. You in?" Eric asked Anna and Bella. "Should we know what that means?" Bella asked him as Anna won against Tyler again, smirking proudly at herself. "Yeah, what is that?" Anna asked as she turned her attention to Eric.

"La Push Beach down at the Quileute Rez. We're all going tomorrow," Tyler told them, resting his arms on Anna's head due to the height difference. "Yeah, there's a big swell coming in," Mike added. "And I don't just surf the internet," Eric told them motioning his hands like he was on a surfboard. "Eric, you stood up once, and it was a foam board," Angela reminded him with a sigh.

"But there's whale watching too," Angela added with a smile. "Come with us," Jessica asked them. "La Push, baby. It's La Push, " Eric said with a smirk. "Okay, we'll go if you stop saying that, okay?" Bella told him as she and Anna laughed. "Seriously, dude. It's creepy, man," Mike told Eric before the two got into a mini argument.

Anna looked up towards the Cullen's table noticing that Jasper was watching her, she smiled softly at him before turning to Tyler. "So why surf in cold weather?" Anna asked him with a sniffle, she had to admit that the colder weather was beginning its attack on her. "Because why not? Good waves, fewer people and great friends," Tyler answered her before rubbing her hands with his to warm them up.

"Seriously, Beth... You sure you aren't getting sick?" Tyler asked her with a worried expression. "It's a small cold, Ty. Stop worrying so much. I promise that if it gets worse, I will see a doctor," Anna assured him with a toothy grin. "Fine. But for now," Tyler pulled his coat off his seat and put it around her shoulders. "Thanks, Ty," Anna told him as she pulled it on tighter.

Anna noticed Edward and Bella talking, she furrowed her brows realizing that Jasper's sudden distance from her was due to something Edward had told him but yet, Edward was all cosy with Bella. To say that Anna was annoyed about that was an understatement. She had no idea why Jasper was so addicting for her but it was an addiction she was willing to lose herself in.

She just needed to be certain that her theory about them was correct ─ that they truly were the same kind as the friend she made during her short time in Salt Lake City, Utah ─ because then all the pieces of the puzzle would make perfect sense to her mind. The Cullens weren't just a private family; they were cold ones ─ They were Vampires .

Chapter Text

Chapter Eight: La Push, Baby

"Hey, it's freezing," Anna told them as she pulled Tyler's large coat over her shoulders. "I'm paddling out, Coates," Tyler told them before messing up Anna's hair, pulling the coat around her tighter. "I don't know if it's worth it anymore," Eric told them as Anna took a bite from Bella's Twizzlers. "We drove all the way out here," Jessica told them.

"I'm at least paddling out," Jessica added after she finished with her wetsuit. "So, I keep thinking that Eric's gonna ask me to the prom, and then he just doesn't," Angela told Anna and Bella. "You should ask him," Bella told her. "Take control. You're a strong, independent woman," Bella continued, the words taking an effect on the younger Swan more than they realised.

"I am?" Angela asked with furrowed brows. "Yes," Bella and Anna said in unison. "Hey, will you do me up?" Jessica asked Angela, and the girl agreed. Anna let out a playful groan after spotting Jacob with two friends approaching them. "Oh, here's some trouble," Anna teased getting a cheeky smirk from Jacob as a response.

"Hi, Jacob. Guys, this is Jacob," Bella introduced. "Hey, guys. How you doing?" Jacob asked the two girls, both responding with a meek hi. Anna rolled her eyes before looking at Jacob's friends, "And you two are?" They both looked at her with smirks on their faces. "This is Embry and Quil," Jacob introduced as he pointed to each of his best friends.

"I'm Anna," Anna introduced back as she shook their hands. "So what? Are you stalking us?" Anna asked Jacob with a teasing grin. "You're on my Rez, remember?" Jacob asked her causing her to roll her eyes. "Are you two surfing?" Jacob asked them. "Definitely not," Bella replied as Anna sniffled. "You okay?" Embry asked Anna who shrugged.

"Just a small cold, nothing I can't handle," Anna told him with a shrug. "You guys should keep Bella and Anna company," Jessica told them. "Bella's date bailed," Jessica added making Anna sigh. "What date?" Eric asked instantly making Anna laugh as she held out two twizzlers for Embry and Quil, both taking them happily.

"She invited Edward," Jessica answered as Anna rolled her eyes subtly. "To be polite, that's it," Bella defended. "I think it's nice she invited him. Nobody ever does," Angela stated. Bella sent her a grateful smile for being on her side while Anna felt slightly bitter about Edward controlling Jasper's actions while not holding back his own. "Yeah, 'cause Cullen's a freak," Mike replied to Angela. "You got that right," Quil added with a smirk.

"You guys know him?" Bella asked them as Anna began rubbing her hands together, she was beginning to regret leaving the warmth of her bed where she could be reading The Book Thief. "The Cullens don't come here," Embry answered vaguely causing everyone to go quiet. "That's ominous," Anna stated after a moment of silence, she shared a smirk with Jacob. "Let's take a walk," Jacob asked the twins, both of them agreeing happily.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

"What did your friends mean about, you know, "The Cullens don't come here" ?" Bella asked Jacob, the twins were on either side of Jacob. "You caught that, huh?" Jacob asked them. "Well... yeah, obviously," Anna said as she nudged him, Jacob nudged her back. "I'm not really supposed to say anything about it," Jacob told them making the twins share a look of both amusement and annoyance.

"Hey, we can keep a secret," Anna defended instantly, the twins were intrigued. "Really, it's just like an old story," Jacob told them. "Well, we want to know," Bella challenged. "Okay, did you know Quileute's are supposedly descended from wolves?" Jacob told them, Anna's heart doubled in speed before she let out a slow breath.

"What? Like, wolves ?" Bella asked him to ensure she heard him right. "Yeah," Jacob answered with a nod. "Like, real wolves?" Bella was confused but Anna was just processing the information, matching it with what she knew about vampires, she didn't doubt for a second that wolves ─ shifters ─ did exist. Opposites in nature as shown in any legend or story that had been written over the years.

"Well, that's the legend of our tribe," Jacob told her. "So what's the story about the Cullens?" Bella asked Jacob. "Well, they're supposedly descended from this, like, enemy clan. My great-grandfather, the chief, found them hunting on our land. But they claimed to be something different, so we made a treaty with them," Jacob explained to the twins, Anna processing this information faster than Bella was.

"If they promised to stay off Quileute lands, then we wouldn't expose what they really were to the palefaces," Jacob finished off ominously. "I thought they just moved here," Bella said with furrowed brows. "Or just moved back," Jacob replied before they all went silent. "It touched my hand. A snake! Stop!" Jessica suddenly screamed.

Anna turned to see Mike chasing Jessica with a piece of seaweed in the shape of a snake, the sight made Anna laugh. "Well, what are they really?" Bella asked Jacob, her curiosity spiking and matching with her theories. "It's just a story, Bella," Jacob answered with a smile on his face. "Come on, you two," Jacob told them. But it was obvious that Anna and Bella had taken those words to heart.

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"They're not here," Jessica told Anna and Bella as she sat on the picnic table, her head back enjoying the rare shine of the sun. "Whenever the weather's nice, the Cullens disappear," Jessica added. Another point; Vampires don't go in direct sunlight, Anna thought to herself. "What? Do they just ditch?" Bella asked them.

"No, Dr and Mrs Cullen yank them out for, like, hiking and camping and stuff," Jessica answered her with a sigh. "I tried that out with my parents. Not even close," Jessica added making Anna look up from her journal, patting Jessica's arm in reassurance. "Guys, I'm going to the prom with Eric," Angela told them excitedly as she sat down next to Anna.

"I just asked him. I took control," Angela told them after taking a calming breath. "I told you that would happen," Bella told them. "Are you sure you two have to go out of town?" Angela asked the Swan twins. "Oh, yeah, it's a little family thing," Bella answered them with a sigh, she locked eyes with Anna.

"Okay, we should go shopping in Port Angeles before all the good dresses get cleaned out," Jessica announced happily knowing both she and Angela had dates with the guys they wanted. "Oh... god," Anna breathed out making Bella laugh. "Anna!" Tyler called out, the blonde smiled before jogging over to him. "Hey, what's up?" Anna asked him.

"So I know for a fact that you are ditching prom but I was thinking... you've been playing matchmaker but maybe you just need someone," Tyler vaguely explained as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders, the two heading in as the bell rang to signal the end of lunch. "Oh-kay," Anna dragged out unsure. "You should ask Jasper to prom," Tyler encouraged.

"I don't know..." Anna replied, unsure. She didn't think Jasper would want to go considering their last conversation, they hadn't spoken since despite the longing glances they sent each other when the other wasn't looking. "Well, you have some time to think about it," Tyler reminded her before kissing the top of her head, the two heading into class together.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Bella had dragged Anna along with her to Port Angeles, Jessica and Angela were in search of prom dresses. "I like this one," Jessica said as she held the pink off-shoulder satin dress against herself. "But, like, I don't know about the one-shoulder thing," Jessica added before looking to Anna who had focused her attention on a light pink off-shoulder lace dress that fanned out at the waist.

"You like that?" Jessica asked her gaining everyone's attention. "Uh, yeah. It's pretty but I won't need it," Anna told them before sitting next to Bella on the window seat. Anna pulled her journal from her bag along with her pen, she zoned out of Jessica and Angela's rambling about the dresses they were looking at. "Is that a new journal?" Bella asked Anna after noticing the new design on the front.

"Uh, yeah, it is. The other one got full quicker than the last," Anna answered with a sigh, she didn't realise how quickly the journal was filling with thoughts and drawings until she turned to her final page. A group of men walked by the window hollering and whistling at the girls causing the four teenagers to cringe uncomfortably.

"That's disgusting," Anna voiced as she glared at them, an uncomfortable shiver down her spine. "You two really aren't into this, are you?" Angela asked the twins who both shook their heads. "I actually really just want to go to this bookstore. I'll meet you guys at the restaurant?" Bella asked them, her gaze turning to an unsure Anna. "It's getting dark," Anna warned her.

"That crystal place is open," Angela told Anna who perked up instantly. "I'll meet you at the restaurant," Anna cheered before shoving her things into her bag and walking out of the store with her sister, Bella splitting off in the opposite directions to Anna. Anna smiled as she spotted the small store that contained different plants, boho-style decorations and multiple crystals.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Anna spent almost an hour looking throughout the store, she spent more than eighty dollars on crystals and a couple of new journals with beautiful designs on the front of them, including a couple of sketch pads for the random spurs of images that appeared within her mind. "Thank you, Mrs Hyacinth," Anna called out as she made her way out of the store with a heavier backpack than before.

"Hello there, beautiful," A man spoke as he stepped out of an alleyway in front of Anna who had just stepped out onto a parking lot. "What are you doing walking around alone at this time of night?" His voice sent uncomfortable shivers down Anna's spine, her entire body screamed anxiety and fear. "L-Look... I have friends waiting for me. So-" Anna began as he stepped closer to her.

"I'm sure they can wait, darling," He told her, the endearment felt distasteful coming from him compared to her Southern addiction. "Just leave me alone," Anna told him with a shaky breath before attempting to walk around him. He quickly grabbed her arm causing her to panic, she froze and began hyperventilating, everything she learnt about self-defence seemed to blank within her mind.

A car pulled up out of nowhere, tyres squealing on the pavement before an unfamiliar car caught Anna's attention. "Let her go!" Jasper's Southern drawl was deep and animalistic as he stepped closer to them. The guy let go of Anna and stepped back, the blonde didn't waste any time rushing over to Jasper and straight into his arms. Anna could feel the anger radiating off of Jasper, his urge to attack first.

"Let it go, Jas. I'm okay," Anna assured him as the guy took off without looking back. Jasper pulled Anna in close to him, resting his face in the crook of her neck to calm himself down. "It's okay, Jas. You saved me," Anna whispered to him, her arms wrapped tight around his shoulders as she melted blissfully in his arms. "You're cold," Jasper noticed as he pulled back from Anna, the usual warmth she had was gone.

"I'm fine," Anna told him as she looked up into his eyes, angel meets devil. "What were you doing walking alone at this time of night?" Jasper asked her, he knew why but he needed to focus on her so he wouldn't go after the guy himself. "I was dress shopping with Bella and the girls but then I went to the new crystal shop and thought I'd be fine," Anna explained to him as they walked to the car.

Jasper opened the door for her with a small smile on his face, she smiled back as she climbed into the car. "I need to be honest with you," Anna told Jasper once he had gotten into the car. "What is it?" Jasper asked her, his full attention was focused on her, as it is most of the time. "I know what you are," Anna told him without hesitation causing Jasper to falter and swallow unnecessarily.

"And that is?" Jasper asked her with his usual pained expression, he wasn't sure how to feel about the situation and he was willing to admit that he was worried about the outcome of the situation. Anna took a deep breath, ensuring she wanted to do this before looking straight into Jasper's eyes, "Vampire..."

Chapter Text

Chapter Nine: Truth Out

"Vampire..." Anna breathed out but the sudden recoil from Jasper confirmed it for her. "How did you?" Jasper asked as he turned to look away from her. "You aren't the first I've met," Anna told him truthfully. "And that's why you're so calm," Jasper replied as he leaned back in his seat, his mind reeling and running wild on how she could have met vampires before and survived in the process. "Actually... I'm always calm around you," Anna told Jasper truthfully, "And it wasn't an overly bad encounter in the past."

Jasper looked at Anna with a raised brow as he focused on her, "Is that so, darlin'?" Anna let out a slow breath, the word felt right coming from him. "You shouldn't call me that," Anna whispered with flushed cheeks. "But I like how you react to it, darlin'," Jasper teased, he felt good knowing she didn't fear him as a vampire though he was intrigued by her past.

An involuntary shiver went down Anna's spine as she licked her lips, she turned her head to look at Jasper, the Southern vampire already looking at her. Deciding to take a leap of faith, Anna leaned closer to him but stopped just a few inches from his lips allowing him to close the distance. Jasper was hesitant before he leaned in, their first kiss was gentle and unsure but Jasper needed to be certain about what this was between them.

And like that, Earth was back on its axis and everything seemed to fall into place. As Jasper placed his hands on either side of her face ─ deepening the kiss ─ their environment fell away for Anna. She could've sworn that the space between them exploded, her heart skipping beats consistently as she finally understood the meaning behind the saying, " Home isn't a place, It's a person."

As Jasper lightly bit down on her lip, pulling back from the kiss knowing she needed air, Anna felt ruined in the best way possible. Jasper Hale had ruined Annabeth Swan in that very moment, no one else would ever be able to make Anna feel that way and she was completely okay with knowing that. He wasn't her addiction ─ he was her life source.

"Wow..." Anna breathed out with her eyes still closed, her first kiss felt like rain in a drought. Before Anna could open her eyes, Jasper's lips pressed against hers again in a hungry fever. His hands moved to her hips as she climbed over onto his lap, careful of the steering wheel behind her. Anna's left hand rested on the side of Jasper's face while her right hand moved behind his head, tightening his hair in her grip.

Both of them melted into one another like two puzzle pieces, their mouths messed together in a constant motion of teeth, tongues and lips. It felt like the moon was shining directly on them, they were the only two people in the world that mattered. And soon enough, Anna's lungs began screaming for air resulting in her pulling away and gasping for some air.

Jasper began kissing her jaw, the euphoric feeling he got in her presence sent him insane compared to the usual mess of emotions and cravings he was surrounded by daily. Anna closed her eyes letting out a quiet moan when Jasper nipped at the skin of her neck, and like a sudden snap of realization, Jasper pulled back fearfully leaving Anna confused.

"What's wrong?" Anna asked, her voice hoarse from the heated kiss and the overall breathless situation. "We shouldn't... I could hurt you... We need to stop," Jasper told her, Anna noticing the ache on both sides of her waist once Jasper dropped his hands. "I didn't even notice," Anna whispered to him before resting her hand on the side of his face again.

"It's okay, Jas. I'm okay... But I understand," Anna assured him before leaning forward and kissing him delicately, afraid he may disappear beneath her with any more force. She moved off of his lap and sat back down in the passenger seat right as her phone rang. "Hello?" Anna asked as she answered it. "Anna! Where are you?" Bella's voice was panicked.

Anna felt guilty for not telling her sister that she was okay, she was meant to meet them at the restaurant almost two hours ago. "I'm sorry... I was so distracted at the crystal shop and-" Anna began but Jasper grabbed the phone, "My apologies, Bella. Anna and I ran into each other and got distracted." Anna smiled gratefully at Jasper before a familiar wave of calm washed over her.

"It's you..." Anna whispered in realization, Jasper smiled at her before focusing on Bella's words, he hung up and started the car before driving off in a hurry. "What's going on?" Anna asked him as she pulled on her seatbelt. "Edward is with Bella. They're at the police station," Jasper told her. "Wait, why?" Anna asked him as he swerved through the streets to get there quicker.

"Carlisle is there... Another attack happened and your father is worried about where you are," Jasper explained to her, he was struggling with the thought of these attacks and how terrified he was about Anna being a target of one. "These attacks... they've been vampires? Nomads?" Anna asked him causing him to chuckle lightly. "How much do you know?" Jasper asked her.

"I know you're different, your family is different. You all have golden-ochre eyes compared to the blood-red that once haunted my dreams," Anna told him in full honesty. "We are... vegetarians," Jasper told her as they pulled into the police station. "Oh, my God..." Anna breathed out seeing the commotion. The two of them got out of the car, Carlisle and Edward looked straight at Jasper.

Jasper walked around the car and approached Anna, he rested his hands on either side of her face. "We'll talk more about it ─ about all of it ─ later, okay?" Jasper told her. "Okay," Anna replied but she didn't move, she wanted Jasper to make the next decision, which he was clearly making before he leaned down and kissed Anna lightly. "Go be with your father and sister," Jasper whispered before walking towards Carlisle and Edward.

"What happened to staying away from her?" Edward asked Jasper once he approached them. "Don't play that game, Edward. Bella told me about you two tonight," Jasper argued back. "All right. Jasper has... a right to be around Annabeth, Edward," Carlisle defended Jasper. "Why?" Edward asked as he looked between them. "She's my mate," Jasper told him with a stern tone hinting that he knew for certain rather than the blood singer that Bella happened to be as a connection to Edward.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Once the Swan father-daughters trio returned to their home ─ after Bella and Anna received some pepper spray from their father for protection ─ they all split off to their separate rooms for the night. Anna let out a quiet sigh as she closed her door, gasping when she noticed Jasper sitting on the window seat.

"By later... I wasn't sure you meant tonight," Anna told him before walking closer to him. "There is... a lot you need to know," Jasper told her. "Okay... Well, I'm not tired so..." Anna told him as she sat down on her desk chair looking at Jasper. "You do realise that I'm a killer," Jasper told her straight away though he smiled at the lack of response from Anna ─ she didn't judge a lion for its nature, she wouldn't judge him for his.

"You know, darlin', being around you is, different in the most peaceful way," Jasper told her, a shiver of pleasure down her spine from his low-tone words. "But I have these doubts that-" Jasper began but Anna shook her head. "I know you won't hurt me, Jasper. You'd never intentionally mean harm to me, maybe it's my own faith and instincts but I trust you," Anna assured him.

"What if I do hurt you?" Jasper asked, his voice sounding so broken as a lifetime of pain flashed across his eyes. Anna stood from the chair and approached Jasper, she sat down next to him, turning her full attention to him as she grabbed his hand. "Jasper Hale, if you were to ever hurt me, emotionally or physically, I wouldn't be afraid of you because I know it was you protecting me somehow. And I'd probably just find a way to hurt you back as revenge ," Anna told him softly, Jasper smirking at her words.

Jasper leaned his forehead against Anna's, his eyes closed as he breathed in her scent, Vanilla and Jasmine consuming him rather than the usual invading scent of sweet metallic blood. "You have no idea how long I've waited for you, darlin'," Jasper whispered to her. Within a blur, Jasper had picked Anna up causing her to quietly shriek before he walked over to her bed and laid her down.

"Did you pull my blankets back in your little blur movement?" Anna asked him as he pulled the blankets over her. "I may have," Jasper answered with a teasing grin before he turned to leave. "Wait..." Anna spoke softly before clearing her throat. "Yes, darlin'?" Jasper asked her. "Could you, maybe, stay? Tell me a story?" Anna asked him with a pout.

Jasper smiled before he moved around the bed to lay next to Anna, he laid on his back facing the ceiling. "A'right, what do you wish to hear?" Jasper asked her. "Tell me something from your life," Anna asked him as she rested her head on his chest, her hand resting above his stomach as she relaxed completely.

"It was 1948 when my life changed from one of destruction to one of peace and hope," Jasper began as he ran his fingers through her light blonde hair, it was an angelic colour compared to his red-tinged blond locks. "How?" Anna sleepily asked him. "I met Alice and Colton at a diner in Philadelphia. She had told me that I had kept them waiting," Jasper answered her. "Huh?" Anna asked with furrowed brows.

"Alice can see glimpses of the future," Jasper explained to Anna. "She saw you coming?" Anna asked him. "She saw that I needed help, that I was searching for a reason to keep going," Jasper told Anna truthfully, her hand resting on his stomach gripping a handful of his shirt, a pain within her chest at the thought of Jasper being gone.

"She and Colton sat down at the table with me, she told me that she saw a happy family for all of us," Jasper explained as he looked down at Anna. "The waitress had cut her finger, I wasn't a vegetarian then, but Alice told me that there was a woman in my future that'd be my reason to live, and it was enough to distract from the blood," Jasper continued with a fond smile, he could remember that day like it was yesterday. Jasper wasn't a believer in Mates but witnessing the love between Alice and Colton was enough to keep him waiting for his Mate to come into his life one day.

"She told me that she had golden locks that shone under the sun, bright blue eyes that made the sky jealous and a bright aura around her that would calm my gift and block out everything but her," Jasper expressed fondly, his voice smooth as Anna looked up at him. "Colton spent a lot of time teasing me whenever I'd focus on a blonde within the room only to be disappointed," Jasper told her honestly.

"Well, if I didn't know any better; I'd say that Alice was talking about me," Anna teased lightly making Jasper laugh. "I'm not too sure," Jasper replied causing Anna to gasp and glare at him. "'Cause I didn't believe her, didn't think I deserved such a beautiful future," Jasper continued as he ran his thumb across Anna's bottom lip.

"After all, I didn't believe that angels existed until I saw you in that cafeteria, I didn't need Alice to tell me that it was you, I just knew," Jasper told her, smiling at her rosy cheeks from his compliment. "Uh... So what is your gift?" Anna asked him with a slow breath. "My gift is pathokinesis," Jasper told her.

"That's why I've felt those random waves of calmness," Anna stated as she ran her fingers across the light scars on his neck. "What are those?" Anna asked him. Jasper, as if he was still human, took in a sharp breath. "Those are... That's a story for another time. It's late, darlin'," Jasper told her before kissing her forehead. "Thank you, Jas," Anna whispered as she closed her eyes.

"You are my Soul, Annabeth Swan. And I am already completely and irrevocably infatuated with you," Jasper whispered to her as he continued to run his fingers through her hair - relishing in the pure peace he felt not being drowned in everyone's emotions nor feeling the need to alter anyone's emotions - She made him feel alive. And he wouldn't be losing her just because she was human or because Edward couldn't stand in the same room as Bella for longer than a few minutes without thirsting for her blood.

Chapter Text

Chapter Ten: Together

Anna woke up in the morning to an empty bed but a small Jasmine flower resting on her bedside table, next to it was a little note — My apologies for leaving without warning, your father had checked in on you during the night. I will be there to pick you up in the morning. Thank you for such peace, darling. Love, Jasper.

Anna's heart swelled — even reading the endearment in his handwriting was enough to send shivers through Anna's body. She quickly got out of bed and got ready for the day — deciding on a black long-sleeved shirt with the green plaid skirt that Jessica chose out for her, her winter stockings underneath matched with some ankle boots. She pulled her coat over the outfit, brushing her hair before grabbing her bag.

The moment she pulled the front door open, Jasper was standing there with a smirk on his face. "Good morning, darlin'," Jasper spoke as he held out his arm for her. "Good morning, Jas," Anna replied before noticing the ute was gone. "Bella already left?" Anna stated with a sigh before shrugging. "Your chariot awaits," Jasper spoke as he opened the door for Anna.

"Why thank you, kind sir," Anna told him as she climbed into the car. "How do you think everyone will react?" Anna asked Jasper once he drove off down the street. "They'll be quite surprised," Jasper told her as he grabbed her hand, interlocking their fingers before kissing the back of her hand.

"And your family? You know, the vampires who probably don't like the idea of you, uh..." Anna trailed off as she wasn't sure what they were. "Right. Let me do this properly," Jasper spoke before pulling over and looking at Anna. "Will you, Annabeth Swan, make me the happiest I've ever been by becoming my girlfriend?" Jasper asked her before holding out some Jasmines.

"My favourite flowers..." Anna breathed out before straightening out her shoulders. "Yes, Jasper Hale, I would be honoured to be your girlfriend," Anna replied before the two kissed. "Now as for my family, they already understand what you mean to me," Jasper told her as they continued driving to the school. "Well, let's be ready to face them all," Anna replied with a wide smile. "Also, no courting ?" Anna teased due to his older age. Jasper sent her an amused look while Anna cherished the fact that she had her first boyfriend and ignored the other fact that they'd known each other for barely a month; feelings have a funny way of working.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Anna smiled as Jasper helped her out of the car, holding his arm out to her as the parking lot watched them with a mixture of reactions. "They're all staring," Anna whispered to Jasper who moved his arm to her waist, holding her against him. "That's because you are beautiful," Jasper told her with a smile, the short blonde blushed at the compliment.

"Or because I'm cuddled up with the school's very own Jasper Hale who — and I quote — is "the blond one who looks like he's in pain", " Anna corrected. "Well, that is quite possibly another reason," Jasper replied before kissing her temple which only set off another reaction causing whispers to fill the parking lot.

"You did that on purpose," Anna said as she leaned into him — she loved their height difference; he was 6"3 while she was 5"4. "It was beneficial for them and me," Jasper told her as he looked at the males all watching him with glares. "Or territorial," Anna muttered with rosy cheeks — her mind clouding with inappropriate thoughts about that side of Jasper.

"Whatever you are thinkin' about, darlin'... It might be wise to distract your thoughts considering I can feel your emotions," Jasper whispered into her ear as they walked into the school. Anna's flushed cheeks deepened drastically before she nuzzled her head into his shoulder as they stopped at her locker. Jasper looked down at Anna fondly as she took steady breaths and thought of puppies and kittens to calm down.

For a very long time, Jasper had struggled with being around humans — He spent so much time trying to decipher his emotions from the world which caused him so much pain and misery leaving him feeling completely alone but as he held Annabeth Swan in his arms — all of those worries drifted away and he truly believed he could forgive his past in time.

"Come on, we don't wanna be late to History," Jasper reminded her as he adjusted her books in his free hand before leading her down the hall. "It's a good thing my history partner knows a lot of history — almost like he lived it," Anna teased with a smirk as they walked into the classroom. Tyler, Eric and Angela sent the couple questioning looks that they just brushed off.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Jasper was waiting by Anna's locker, the two had different classes before lunch and he had told her, he'd wait for her at her locker. "So you and Anna?" Tyler asked Jasper as he approached him, Jasper tensed up as he looked at Tyler. "Uh, yeah. Anna and I," Jasper replied awkwardly as Tyler sighed. "Just... look after her," Tyler told him. he trusted that Anna could look out for herself but he still worried about her as his best friend.

"I plan to... for a very long time," Jasper assured him without hesitation before the two shook hands. "What are you two talking about?" Anna asked as she approached them with a wide smile. "Just about your clumsy attitude," Tyler teased with a smirk before making his way towards Lauren. "Jerk," Anna playfully said before turning to Jasper.

"He wasn't being mean or anything, was he?" Anna asked Jasper as she rested a hand on his chest. "Not at all. Don't you worry about it, darlin'," Jasper assured her before they made their way to the cafeteria. "So it turns out, both Bella and Edward totally ditched," Anna told Jasper with a smirk. "That's gonna have an interesting outcome," Jasper replied, he noticed the look in Anna's eyes and assumed that Bella had worked everything out and they'd be facing that dilemma in no time.

After Anna grabbed some food, the couple made their way over to the usual Cullens table where Emmett, Rosalie, Alice and Colton sat together. "Hello Anna, I'm Alice," Alice cheerfully spoke with a wide smile, her energetic aura brought a smile to Anna's face as she sat down. "We are gonna be great friends," Alice told her — Anna didn't doubt it.

"I just wanna give a heads up straight away, I don't wanna be intrusive or make any of you uncomfortable, so if you need me to leave — just say the word," Anna told them truthfully, she didn't want to upset Jasper's adoptive family. "You're fine, Anna Banana," Emmett told her as he leaned back in his seat, his arm resting behind Rosalie who had been deep in thought.

"I'm all good, Anna," Colton told her with his usual smirk before leaning closer to Alice — the bubbly pixie vampire's presence was enough for him to get by. "You and Jasper are together now. It's only natural we all get to know you," Rosalie spoke hesitantly before taking in Jasper's look — the two having a silent conversation due to the fact Anna was Jasper's mate; the twins held shared doubts in connection to Edward's claims that Bella was his mate due to the fact she was his blood singer but Jasper had no doubts that Anna was his mate and only his mate which is why Rosalie was so accepting.

"Anyway, considering you are well on your way to becoming a member of the family, we should get to know each other," Alice told her causing Jasper to sigh, he didn't need his sisters scaring the woman off before they could even see where it went between them. "Relax, Alice. You'll scare her away from Jasper," Colton told his love and the pixie girl nodded. "It's fine. Trust me, Alice's welcoming aura doesn't intimidate me and it'll take a lot more than that to scare me away," Anna told them before she and Alice broke into a conversation.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

"Bella confronted Edward," Anna told Jasper as they walked towards his car after school, she had received a message from Bella telling her where she was and that she had indeed confronted him. "Which means?" Emmett asked from behind them while Rosalie had an unimpressed look on her face. "It means that Bella worked it all out," Anna told them as they stopped at the cars, Anna leaned back into Jasper's chest, his arms wrapping around her waist — the couple stood directly across from Emmett and Rosalie.

"So you know everything?" Rosalie asked as she crossed her arms looking from Anna to Jasper. "Jasper didn't tell me... I have a friend in Utah who revealed your world to me; I just — like Bella — used the small details of evidence to work out the truth," Anna explained before she moved her head to look up at Jasper. "My girl is smart," Jasper cooed causing Anna's cheeks to flush pink, Jasper loved the way she responded to his words or actions; it was euphoric to him.

"I gotta admit, this is the most relaxed I've ever seen Jasper," Rosalie told Anna as she watched their newest vegetarian stay completely calm despite the human in his arms. "And so the lion falls for the lamb," Colton teased making Anna roll her eyes before softly kissing Jasper's jawline. "Leave them be, Colt," Alice warned him before smiling at the new couple, this is what she had been waiting for.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

"All right. What exactly is the story with your siblings?" Anna asked Jasper as the two walked through the forest. "Well, for all intents and purposes, Rosalie is claimed as my twin sister which is why we both have the last name Hale," Jasper explained to Anna — catching her as she tripped over a loose branch making Jasper laugh at her clumsy nature.

"I see how that works for the sake of Rosalie and Emmett's relationship but what about Colton?" Anna asked before leaning against a tree, Jasper stepping up closer to her. "Colton uses the last name Lahey — for Forks anyway. He gets the label of the newest member of the family but that title goes to me," Jasper told her, taking a loose strand of her hair — and curling it around his fingers delicately.

"And I'm assuming — sorry if I'm overstepping — that you aren't as controlled as your foster family," Anna suggested as their foreheads rested against each other. "Usually... My expression of pain is due to me fighting my cravings due to my..." Jasper trailed off as Anna rested her hands on either side of his face. "Nothing you tell me will scare me away, Jas. But tell me at your own pace. I'd never want you to step out of your boundaries 'cause you think it's best but because you are comfortable to do so," Anna assured him.

"My life was more... violent than that of my siblings. I spent a lot of my time feeding on the humans rather than the diet my family chooses to live off," Jasper explained, his entire body was tense making Anna sigh. "It's okay, Jas. Tell me when you're ready," Anna assured him before furrowing her brows. "But tell me... how do you not-" Anna began only for Jasper to kiss her, his mouth moving delicately against her own as he enjoyed the taste of her lips and the feeling of them moving against his own leaving him feeling like a teenage boy having his first kiss every time.

"I won't lie to you, darlin'. I do have a thirst for your blood but it's... different. While others can place me under a frenzy — this... connection between us overpowers that hunger," Jasper answered her after he pulled back from her, placing a delicate kiss on her forehead. "Because we're mates?" Anna asked remembering what Alice told her.

"Because we are one step further than that, Annabeth Swan. We are Soulbound. You are more than my mate, you aren't only the other half that makes me whole — you are the sunshine on my stormy days. While I, my darlin' Annabeth, am soulless — you are my soul," Jasper told her before she wrapped her arms tightly around his shoulders, slamming her mouth onto his; she always had a weakness for words and poetry.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

"And then I told him that I trusted him," Bella finished off by telling Anna about confronting Edward, she left out the details about being a vampire. "So you confronted Edward about being a vampire?" Anna asked with a sigh as Bella's eyes widened. "You know?" Bella asked her causing Anna to sigh softly, she had expected Bella to tell her everything knowing her relationship with Jasper but it seemed that Bella's obsession with Edward mattered more than the 'safety' of her younger sister.

"Jasper and I are together, Bella. He isn't the first encounter I've had with their kind," Anna told Bella honestly, she was waiting for Bella to question her endlessly but the brunette just wrapped her arms around Anna. "I'm glad I don't have to lie to you. I couldn't live with myself lying to my younger sister," Bella expressed as Anna hugged her back in a tight embrace.

"So we both fell for vampires?" Anna asked Bella, the two girls laughing lightly at the question. "It seems we did," Bella answered as they looked at each other. "We really are twin sisters, huh?" Bella asked her, the two laughed again as they realized just how crazy their lives had become since moving to Forks with their father.

"So the two lambs fell in love with two lions — falling prey to the beauty that is within rather than their instinct," Anna stated in a theatrical voice. "Have you been practising that one?" Bella asked her with a lopsided smile. "Ever since Jasper dropped me home — It was another random thought that hit me," Anna told her before they both fell back against the bed talking till they fell asleep.

Chapter Text

Chapter Eleven: Their Past Lives

TW: mentions of suicide, abuse, panic attack, and death.

Anna tossed and turned in her bed, she let out slow breaths before snapping awake. Jasper pulled the frightened blonde into his embrace, his darling was shaking in his embrace as she sobbed so painfully that Jasper felt consumed by the emotion; if he could cry, he'd be a sobbing mess alongside his Soulbound.

"Darlin', what's wrong?" Jasper whispered to her as her sobs turned to whimpers. "I need to see Esme," Anna told him, she lifted her head to look at Jasper who took instant notice of her puffy eyes but that wasn't what left him stunned, it was how her sky blues were a dark shade of grey; fading back to their usual blue with a reflection of fairy lights though none rested in her room.

Jasper didn't question her any further, he grabbed his coat and pulled it onto her before picking her up into his arms, leaving through her window before taking off to the Cullen household. Anna was still processing the nightmares that seemed to overlap, the haunting of past lives that were not her own though she felt all of the pain, all the sadness and every ounce of anger.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

"Where's Esme and Carlisle?" Jasper asked Rosalie as he sat a distraught and distant Anna down on the couch in the living room. "Jasper?" Esme spoke as she and Carlisle walked in with Alice and Colton. "What's going on?" Emmett asked as he walked up to Rosalie, the blonde vampire was watching Anna with a worried expression, the broken expression on the human's face hurt her.

"She woke up from a nightmare in a panic then she cried before asking me where Esme was," Jasper explained to them as he looked back at his Soulbound, his eyes darkened. "Emmett and Colton are about to hunt, go with them," Carlisle advised Jasper who went to argue, he didn't need babying right now, he needed answers as to why the woman he adored was in this broken state.

"Jasper, she needs Esme and Carlisle right now," Edward spoke up as he walked into the room, he tried to access Anna's mind but it was broken up into pieces, some of it was blocked while other pieces were not her own memories. "Jas..." Anna breathed out, Jasper rushed over to her and took her hands in his. "What can I do?" Jasper pleaded with her, the Olympic Coven watched in awe of Jasper's bond with Anna.

"It's okay... I need to talk to Esme. Go feed, I'll be right here when you come back," Anna assured him in her shaky voice, she swallowed dryly before kissing him gently. Jasper hesitantly left with his brothers while Rosalie, Alice and Edward left their parents with Anna who was still sorting through her nightmares. "What is wrong, Annabeth?" Esme asked her, grabbing her hand in a motherly fashion with soft eyes.

"1921..." Anna breathed out making Esme tense up, Carlisle grabbing his wife's free hand. "You lost your baby to lung fever. You were so distraught that you attempted to take your own life which proved futile 'cause Carlisle found you and turned you, and you both fell in love," Anna continued as tears streamed down her cheeks almost as though they were Esme's and her own mixed in one.

"You were born Esme Anne Platt in 1895 on the outskirts of Columbus, Ohio where you grew up on a farm living a happy childhood," Anna said before covering her mouth and letting out a sob. "How do you know this?" Esme asked her, her voice cracked. "It was my nightmare... I felt all of it, the joy, the pain, the sorrow, the guilt... the burn," Anna told them before she began rubbing her hand on her neck.

"That is my story, my past life," Esme told Anna as Carlisle thought deeply about this. "Annabeth, what else did you dream?" Carlisle asked her as Alice, Rosalie and Edward walked back into the room, the three adoptive children looked at their parents before sitting down. Anna closed her eyes, pushing Esme's memories from her mind, slowly the emotions faded into something different.

"1918... Edward Anthony Masen - born June 20, 1901, in Chicago, Illinois," Anna answered with her eyes closed, almost in a hypnotic state. "You were dying from the Spanish Influenza, you were given a second chance at life due to your mother's love and Carlisle's compassion," Anna continued before gasping, similar to Alice. "Visions... She's having visions of the past," Alice told them.

"Of those, she is closest too. People she has formed a deep connection with," Carlisle added as he watched the human girl's expression morph into one of anger and pain. "1933... Rosalie Lillian Hale - born in Rochester, New York in 1915..." Anna's eyes burst open as she jumped up from the couch, her heart was racing as she began to hyperventilate, tears streaming down her face.

"Anna... Anna... you need to breathe," Edward told her, he didn't want to touch her in case it set her off further. "Edward, get Jasper," Carlisle told Edward who took off in search of his brother. "Anna..." Carlisle spoke in a soothing tone, kneeling in front of her after she dropped to the floor pulling her knees to her chest, sobbing and hyperventilating to the point that her lungs begged for air and her head felt like it was about to implode.

"Focus on my voice, Annabeth. You need to focus on five things; five colours in the room," Carlisle continued though it wouldn't work as she began mumbling under her breath, "1663 - Carlisle Cullen. 1863 - Jasper Whitlock. 1884 - Colton Scott Mathers. 1918 - Edward Anthony Masen. 1920 - Mary Alice Brandon. 1921 - Esme Anne Platt. 1933 - Rosalie Lillian Hale. 1935 - Emmett McCarty." Anna repeated it again and again like an ongoing mantra.

The whole of the Olympic Coven now stood within the room surrounding her from a distance, the family was shocked by this sudden revelation about Annabeth Swan. "Those are the dates we turned..." Colton said as they looked at each other. "Carlisle," Edward spoke as he looked at his father, the mentioned leader turned to his son.

"She's living through our lives - She's reliving our changes, the pain, the emotions... all of it," Edward explained as he accessed what he could from her mind, broken pieces showing from behind a mental shield he only ever experienced around Bella. "Correct me if I'm wrong, but... doesn't Anna get random thoughts that don't feel like her own, images flashing before her eyes..." Colton expressed with wide eyes.

"Our gifts..." Alice muttered as Jasper moved closer to his Darling, carefully he knelt in front of her. "You think she is somehow experiencing all of our gifts?" Edward asked Alice who nodded solemnly before her eyes glazed over, Colton grabbed her. "What do you see?" Colton asked his mate, rubbing her arms in a soothing pattern. "Anna... I see Anna..." Alice stuttered as the vision continued.

"Darlin'?" Jasper whispered to his girlfriend, the blonde finally snapped from her mantra and looked up at Jasper with puffy eyes and split lips from biting down on her lips from the pain of the memories. "W-what's h-happening to m-me?" Anna asked with a hiccup. Jasper pulled her into his arms, rocking her gently as he whispered soothing words to her.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Anna's eyes slowly opened, they were irritated and sore, her throat felt hoarse and she felt sick in the stomach as she went to move. She tilted her head to see Jasper holding her tight in his arms, his eyes closed as he concentrated on her and only her rather than the theories his family was throwing around in the living room down the hall.

"Jasper?" Anna's voice was dry and hoarse, the sound caused Jasper to open his eyes before leaning forward and kissing her forehead. "Why is my throat so sore? And my eyes are irritated like I've been crying? Did we watch a sad movie?" Anna asked Jasper who furrowed his brows in confusion. "You don't remember?" Jasper asked her, his voice was hoarse and drained.

"Don't remember what?" Anna asked him with her own confused expression. "The nightmares, you needing Esme?" Jasper attempted to carefully remind her, he didn't want to risk another panic attack. "I, uh... It's all sort of blurry," Anna told him as she tried to remember what had happened. "It's okay, darlin'. Don't strain yourself," Jasper assured her as he brushed her hair from her face.

"Jasper, why are you so tense?" Anna asked him as she ran her fingers across his arms, she had noticed the faint bite marks upon his wrists but no more than that. "You had a panic attack last night, darlin'. I was just worried about you, nothing to fret about now," Jasper assured her as he sent calm waves towards her. "Stop..." Anna whispered to him causing him to frown.

"You need to learn to detach your emotions from others to save your own sanity. How will you learn to do that when you are focused on calming me?" Anna asked him sternly. "My apologies, ma'am," Jasper replied. Anna flushed red at the drawl that she loved so fondly. "But Jasper... I know you can read me ─ well, you can read emotions ─ but I need you to understand that I can read you too," Anna expressed before placing a delicate kiss on his forehead.

"Now tell me, Jas, what happened last night?" Anna asked him, Jasper sighed as he closed his eyes before taking an unnecessary breath. Jasper went on to explain what had happened the night before, expressing his concerns and worries about her own mental health above his own, and how she fell into a state of panic before passing out from the lack of oxygen in her brain due to the panic attack.

Anna stayed silent as she processed Jasper's retelling of the events from the night before, the story felt real and familiar but almost like something was blocking the memories from pushing forward again. "Don't force the memories back, darlin'. You'll only do more damage than good," Jasper forewarned her before rolling over and hovering above her.

"I don't understand what is happening to me, Jasper..." Anna whispered, she was worried about what this could mean. Jasper leaned down, his lips hovering above hers. "Let's not worry about that right now, darlin'," Jasper whispered against her lips before pressing a soft kiss onto her chapped lips. He pulled back slightly, watching as Anna licked her lips to moisten the dry surface.

Anna hooked her right hand behind his neck and pulled him down to connect their lips in a passionate kiss that sent Anna's nerves into overdrive. Her mind went blank and focused purely on the Southern charmer's lips that fought for dominance in such a gentle way that Anna arched her back, a soft moan escaping her lips. Jasper smirked against her lips as his hands held him above her, not risking any bruising on her body from his grip.

Anna pulled back slowly, she bit down playfully on Jasper's bottom lip before letting it go. Jasper let out an animalistic growl before claiming her lips again, his whole body felt alive. He could've sworn that his still heart had almost beat again as her free hand moved to his chest, gripping the fabric of his shirt as her left leg hooked around his waist pulling him closer to her.

Jasper ─ using every ounce of strength he had ─ pulled away from his Darling leaving her with flushed cheeks, swollen lips and a yearning for more. "Come on, darlin'. You need to let your sister know that you are okay," Jasper told her before pulling her out of the bed, admiring the way his clothes looked on her body. "Jasper?" Anna breathed out, her tone hoarse for a different reason than before.

"Yes, darlin'?" Jasper asked with his back turned to her, fixing his creased shirt from her strong grip, leaving his thoughts running wild at the prospect of her strength as a newborn before shaking the thoughts away. "What was Alice's vision?" Anna asked causing Jasper to tense, he froze in place as Anna stepped closer. "Tell me, Jasper," Anna pleaded, needing the information he left out.

"Her vision was-

-your last breath..."

Chapter Text

Chapter Twelve: Baseball

"Bella, you need to seriously relax," Anna told her sister as she brushed her hair into a ponytail, the two had been invited to the Cullen's home so the family could meet Bella more formally now that she and Edward were public. Anna had already spent time with the Cullens, especially after the subjective vision that Alice had of her 'causing Jasper to be more protective than before.

"How are you so calm?" Bella asked her sister adjusting her shirt. "I'm calm because I'm well acquainted with their home. Now, I'll see you later," Anna told her sister before giving her a side hug. Jasper had decided to pick Anna up early per Rosalie's request, since Anna's strange mental attack, Rosalie had formed a protective bond with her and the two became friends.

"Bye, Dad!" Anna shouted out to her father before walking outside right as Jasper pulled up to the house. "Hello, darlin'," Jasper greeted as she climbed into the car, the two shared a chaste kiss before Anna pulled on her seatbelt. "I can feel Bella's nerves from here," Jasper told her with a small smile, interlocking their fingers and resting their hands on Anna's thigh.

"I think she's internally panicking about becoming the meal," Anna told Jasper with an amused smile, the couple both laughed. "Your sister has quite the mindset," Jasper replied which made Anna laugh again. "And how has Rosalie reacted to this? She has been hesitant," Anna asked Jasper as she watched the trees pass by.

"Rose is... hesitant about this. There are risks with Bella and Edward's relationship compared to our own," Jasper explained, he was glad that Rosalie had accepted Anna so quickly. "How so?" Anna asked. "Bella isn't just Edwards mate , she's his blood singer. Her blood is more... desirable for him which can be a risk," Jasper explained.

"Oh, that makes more sense. Anyway, what is Esme cooking because I am hungry for some mama Esme cooking," Anna asked with a wide smile, her stomach purring in delight. From the time Anna had spent at the Cullen home, Esme was given an opportunity to cook ─ something she deeply enjoyed ─ And Anna fell in love with her cooking. "She's cooking Italian," Jasper answered as they pulled up to the house.

Anna didn't wait for Jasper to shut off the car, she opened the door and raced into the house leaving Jasper smiling fondly at her excitement. "Mama Esme!" Anna called out as she stepped in the door. "Beth!" Rosalie called out as she walked towards her, the two embraced each other in a tight hug before walking into the kitchen.

"Oh my, that smells so good!" Anna practically moaned as she relished the smell wafting through the kitchen. "I'm glad, Annabeth," Esme told her before planting a soft kiss on her temple. "Is Bella nervous, Anna Banana?" Emmett asked with a smirk on his face as Anna sat next to him at the counter.

"She's a little nervous so, uh, tease her," Anna told him with a smirk on her face, Colton laughed as he nodded. "You'll all leave Bella alone. This is new for her and us," Esme warned them all causing Emmett, Colton and Anna to pout. Rosalie wouldn't admit it but she loved how Anna seemed to fit into the family perfectly, she didn't leave anyone out.

Jasper walked up to Anna, standing behind her as he wrapped his arms around her, watching her talk with Esme about school. "Get a whiff of that," Emmett spoke up suddenly causing Anna to perk up. "Here comes the human," Rosalie spoke while Anne raised a brow at her. "Oh hush, you said to tease her," Rosalie told Anna who laughed.

They made their way to the foyer just before the kitchen where Edward and Bella stood, Anna smiled at her sister before leaning back into Jasper. "Bella, we're making Italiano for you," Esme informed her with a loving smile. "Bella, this is Esme. My mother for all intents and purposes," Edward told Bella.

"And I'm trying to convince her to adopt me," Anna added making the others smile while Bella laughed softly, she always admired and envied her sister's ability to get along with almost everyone she came in contact with. "You've given us another opportunity to use the kitchen," Esme explained while Anna began thinking about the food, catching Edward's amused expression; her mental shield seemed to be temperamental in regards to Edward's gift, sometimes he could hear her thoughts while other times he couldn't.

"I hope you're hungry," Esme added while Anna nodded her head. "Yeah, absolutely," Bella answered sheepishly. "She already ate," Edward informed everyone causing Anna to roll her eyes at Edward's blunt harshness while the sound of something breaking caught Anna's attention. "Perfect," Rosalie seethed out as Anna frowned at the salad that lay on the floor never to be eaten. "Rose... not the salad," Anna whined causing Rosalie's lips to twitch upwards slightly.

"Yeah, it's just because I know that you guys don't eat..." Bella told them attempting to save the awkward situation. "Of course. It's very considerate of you," Carlisle replied with a kind smile. "Just ignore Rosalie. I do," Edward told Bella causing Anna to frown at him, she did not like the way Edward treated his family when they were the ones risking themselves so he could chase after his alleged mate .

"Let's just keep pretending like this isn't dangerous for all of us," Rosalie snapped at them. Anna shrunk into Jasper's arms, she knew that Rosalie had warmed up to her but as Jasper told her, Bella was Edward's blood singer too. Anna knew this situation was new, Rosalie accepted her because she was clearly more than human and Jasper's confirmed mate; but Anna felt bad for the treatment towards Bella.

"I would never tell anybody anything," Bella assured Rosalie before looking to her sister who nodded in agreement. "She didn't even tell me and I knew," Anna added in defence of her older sister. "She knows that," Carlisle assures hoping to lessen the tension. "Yeah, well, the problem is, you two have gone public now, so..." Rosalie continued causing Edward to look at Emmett, the bear-like vampire stepped closer to his mate but she glared at him.

"No, she should know. The entire family will be implicated if this ends badly," Rosalie added as she crossed her arms. Anna finally caught onto Rosalie's full concern; The Cullens were already considered outcasts due to their diets but it was the gifts that already labelled them as threats to the Volturi ─ A powerful coven that rules over the vampires ─ and if something happened to the twins that the Volturi didn't like, then the whole family could suffer the consequences.

"Badly, as in... I would become the meal," Bella replied causing the family to laugh while Anna shook her head. "Oh, my God, Bella..." Anna muttered with a smile before sighing as Alice and Colton ─ who returned after looking for his beloved ─ arrived relieving some of the tension in the room. Anna smiled at Alice who approached Bella without hesitation in her attempt to brighten the room.

"Wanna sneak away?" Jasper whispered to his little mate, he'd grown tired of the tension in the room and just wanted to be with Anna alone. "Yes, please," Anna answered before the two made their out of the foyer and towards the stairs, Jasper led her to his room which now had a bed in it for Anna. And the two talked aimlessly for hours, just enjoying each other's presence.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

"Baseball?" Anna asked Jasper as she moved around in her room. "Why not?" Jasper asked her with a playful smirk, his eyes focused on the shirt she was wearing ─ his shirt. "You do know that I can't play baseball as is and now you're suggesting I play baseball with vampires?" Anna asked as she approached him, standing between his legs. "It'd be quite amusing for me, darlin'," Jasper told her.

"Funny. I am, however, happy to be a referee but don't think I'll be assisting you in cheating just because you're my boyfriend," Anna told Jasper as she leaned down and kissed him. "That won't be an issue, darlin'," Jasper replied before resting his head against her stomach, his arms wrapped around her waist. "Bella is introducing Edward to your father," Jasper suddenly told her, the two smiled happily knowing that Charlie had already met Jasper.

It was only three days after the two got together, Anna had brought Jasper home with her after school knowing that Charlie wanted to meet the boy who was making his youngest daughter so happy. "Dad, this is Jasper Hale. Jasper, my father; Charlie," Anna introduced dramatically making both males laugh. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Chief Swan," Jasper spoke as he held out his hand for Charlie to shake.

"It's nice to meet the person responsible for my daughter's smile," Charlie replied as he shook Jasper's hand, Anna dramatically wiped a fake tear away making the first encounter so much more memorable for all of them. The three of them sat down and spoke for a while, Jasper sticking to his story about being a foster kid from Houston, Texas while Charlie admired his manners. Charlie approved of them instantly.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Anna walked up to the family, she bounded over to Rosalie and the two hugged each other tightly as Edward and Bella approached them all. "Glad you're here. We needed another umpire," Esme told Bella as Anna pretended to play fight against Emmett, the two dramatically throwing their heads to the side mimicking hits before laughing.

"She thinks we cheat," Emmett told Bella while Anna laughed. "I know you cheat," Rosalie told her mate with a smirk, grabbing Anna's hand and pulling her towards her. "Call them as you see them, Anna, Bella," Esme told the two girls before they all got into their positions. Anna grabbed Jasper's hand and pulled him closer before kissing him. "That's for good luck," Anna whispered to him before he kissed her again.

"It's time," Alice told them with an excited smile. Anna and Bella stood with Esme. Rosalie was batting and Alice was pitching. Anna watched in amazement as Rosalie hit the ball right as the thunder hit, sending the ball flying through the air. "Okay, now I see why you need the thunder," Bella stated while Anna smirked. "That's gotta be a home run, right?" Bella asked as Rosalie ran the bases, Edward chasing for the ball.

"Edward's very fast," Esme told Bella as Jasper winked at Anna as he spun the bat around, the blonde blushing as she adjusted the shirt she had taken from him. "You're out," Bella told Rosalie after Esme caught the ball, tapping the blonde vampire out. "You're out! Whoo!" Emmett called before noticing his mate's scowl. "Babe, come on. It's just a game," Emmett told her as Anna pulled Rosalie up, sending her a reassuring smile.

Carlisle was up next, hitting the ball hard towards Emmett causing him and Edward to both rush towards the ball, colliding playfully in the air as Carlisle got a home run. Jasper was next causing Anna to smirk, the way he tossed the bat around made her stomach fill with butterflies along with the look of concentration on his face. Alice pitched the ball and Jasper sent it through the air before running the bases, Emmett climbed a tree and caught the ball.

"My monkey man," Rosalie commented with a smile as Emmett threw the ball back to Alice. Rosalie was up to bat again, she hit the ball and began to run when Alice suddenly faltered ─ Anna was the one who noticed as an uncomfortable shiver clawed its way up her spine. "Stop!" Alice called out causing everyone to freeze in place, the vampires instantly picked up on the new presence while Anna stepped closer to her sister.

Jasper walked straight to Anna, pulling her along as Edward did the same with Bella. "Let's go," Edward told them but they were stopped. "It's too late," Carlisle told them, Anna stepped closer to Jasper as he pulled her hair from its ponytail ─ Bella doing the same after Edward instructed her to. Carlisle walked ahead of the family while Jasper kept his arm around Anna's waist, Bella stood close to Edward but her hand gripped her sisters.

Anna looked up at the three vampires approaching them, the middle one was a dark-toned man with dreads that rested down his back ─ his aura was taunting yet merciful from what Anna could pick up on. The one on the left was a blond pale man with his hair tied back ─ his aura made Anna uncomfortable, the harsh killer vibe coming off him in waves. The remaining vampire was a red-haired woman with pale skin and killer eyes ─ And Anna was scared of the outcome.

Chapter Text

Chapter Thirteen: The Hunt

"I believe this belongs to you," The man in the middle spoke as he held up the baseball before throwing it to Carlisle, the coven leader catching it. "Thank you," Carlisle responded with a kind smile. "I am Laurent. And this is Victoria and James," Laurent introduced as James looked them all over until his eyes locked with Anna's, she didn't look away ─ keeping his gaze to ensure he understood that he didn't scare her.

"I am Carlisle and this is my family," Carlisle introduced as he looked around at the tense coven that watched the three nomads carefully. "I'm afraid your hunting activities have caused a thing of a mess for us," Carlisle informed them. "Our apologies. We didn't realise the territory had been claimed," Laurent replied though he kept a stoic expression on his face.

"Yeah, well... we maintain a permanent residence nearby," Carlisle told them in hopes it would push them out of Forks quicker. "Really?" Laurent asked surprised as James and Edward stared each other down, Anna's gaze had moved to Victoria and the two hadn't looked away. "Well, we won't be a problem anymore. We were just passing through," Laurent explained to the family before Victoria spoke, "The humans were tracking us but we led them East. You should be safe."

"Excellent," Carlisle replied to her as Laurent surveyed the family. "So, could you use three more players?" Laurent asked them before noticing their wary expressions, "Come on. Just one game." Anna leaned into Jasper more as she noticed James' smirk. "Sure. Why not? A few of us were leaving, you could take their place," Carlisle informed them. "We'll bat first," Colton stated with his usual smirk. "I'm the one with the wicked curveball," Victoria replied to him.

"Well, I think I can handle that," Colton challenged. "We shall see," Laurent added with a smirk on his face as Jasper and Edward led Bella and Anna away from the others. The wind suddenly picked up and blew Anna and Bella's scent straight towards the nomads gaining James' full attention. "You brought some snacks," James said as he went to rush the twins, the Cullens instantly moved into a defensive stance.

"A human?" Laurent asked incredulously as Anna gripped onto Jasper's hand knowing that he'd be the one to fight first and despite believing that Jasper would win that fight, she wouldn't risk the safety of the family. "The girls are with us. I think it's best if you leave," Carlisle warned them as James and Edward stared each other down. "I can see the game is over. We'll go now," Laurent told them with a bow of his head before stepping away.

"James," Laurent called, the blond nomad followed after him before sparing another glance towards Anna. "Get them out of here!" Carlisle ordered his two sons. Anna didn't hesitate to walk with Jasper, the two quickly approached Jasper's car and got in. "He's coming after Bella and I, isn't he?" Anna asked Jasper, his hands tightened around the steering wheel.

"He's a tracker, Anna. He lives for the chase. You and Bella aren't safe here," Jasper replied as he followed behind Edward and Bella. "The reaction that Edward and I gave him, just made this his most exciting game ever. He's not gonna stop," Jasper continued, he was trying his best not to go after James. "What will you all do?" Anna asked him as she took steady breaths, she needed to be calm so Jasper was calm.

"We have to kill him. Rip him apart and burn the pieces," Jasper told her as she reached over and rested her hand on his thigh, the action settled him enough to lessen the grip on the steering wheel. "Where are we going?" Anna asked him. "Away from Forks, far away from Forks," Jasper replied while Anna ran her free hand through her hair. "My dad, Jas. I can't just leave him behind to get hurt," Anna told him softly as her eyes watered.

"Edward's heading there with Bella, they'll handle it," Jasper told her after looking at his phone, he turned down the road towards his home. The couple headed inside quickly and Rosalie instantly pulled Anna into her arms, the human girl let a tear fall before taking in a steady breath. "It's gonna be okay, Beth. We'll make sure," Rosalie whispered to Anna.

Laurent had shown up to the house to warn the family about James but it only put Jasper on edge. The only thing Laurent warned Anna about was the one thing that could take her away from Jasper ─ Anna was James' blood singer . The family made their way into the garage after Bella and Edward had shown up, the twins sat on the bench next to each other with a tight grip on each other's hands.

"What did you tell dad?" Anna whispered to her sister as the Cullens prepared everything for their next move. "Edward and I faked a breakup and I told him that I was gonna drive to Arizona, said you were waiting for me and that you were coming with me. I said the same thing mom did when she left him," Bella told her before resting her head on Anna's shoulder, the two were saddened knowing how much this would affect Charlie.

"I've had to fight our kind before. They're not easy to kill," Jasper told everyone as he stood next to Anna. "But not impossible," Emmett replied to Jasper as Colton nodded along. "We'll tear them apart and burn the pieces," Colton spoke up without hesitation. "I don't relish the thought of killing another creature, even a sadistic one like James," Carlisle told them with a frown. "What if he kills one of us first?" Rosalie asked causing Anna and Bella to falter.

"Jasper and I will run Bella and Anna south. Can you lead the tracker away from here?" Edward asked Carlisle who shook his head at his sons. "No, Edward. James knows you won't leave Bella. Nor would Jasper leave Anna. He'll follow you," Carlisle warned them. "He's right. James would know that instantly, he needs to be thrown off by us splitting about and going different ways," Anna spoke up as she looked at both of them. "I'll go with them. Colton and I will drive them south. I'll keep them safe," Alice offered with a smile.

"Can you keep your thoughts to yourself?" Edward asked her as Jasper looked at Anna, she smiled in reassurance. "Rosalie, Esme, could you put these on so the tracker will pick up Bella and Anna's scent?" Edward asked them as he held out two jackets ─ one was Bella's and the other was Anna's. "Why? What is she to me?" Rosalie asked before glancing at Bella. "Rose..." Anna breathed out before grabbing her jacket and handing it to her.

"For you," Rosalie replied before pulling on Anna's jacket. "At least it suits you," Anna told Rosalie before they hugged. Anna climbed into the back of Alice's car, Jasper followed her and leaned into the window. "Once this is over, I'll come to get you, darlin'. And I don't plan to leave your side. I won't let you get hurt," Jasper promised before the two kissed ─ unlike Bella and Edward ─ Jasper and Anna didn't need more words, their actions spoke louder than anything else.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

It wasn't long till Alice, Colton, Anna and Bella reached Arizona, Anna and Bella were seated in the living room of their hotel room waiting for any news. "What is it? What do you see?" Colton asked Alice gaining the twins' attention, they walked over to see Alice zoned out. "He's figured it out. The tracker, he just changed course," Alice told them, Anna grabbed Bella's hand. "Where will it take him, Alice?" Colton asked her before she began drawing.

"Mirrors. A room full of mirrors," Alice replied. "Edward said the visions weren't always certain," Bella expressed to Colton who nodded. "She sees the course people are on while they're on it. If they change their minds, the vision changes," Colton explained to the twins. "Okay, so the course that the tracker's on now is gonna lead him to a ballet studio?" Bella asked as Anna looked at the drawing. "You've been there?" Colton asked her.

"We both took lessons as a kid. The school we went to had an arch just like that," Anna told them in full honesty as she looked at the drawing. Anna stepped away from them as Bella's phone rang, she answered it as Anna took slow breaths. Anna's phone rang and she pulled it out thinking it was Jasper but was surprised to see it was her mother calling instead.

"Hey, Mom, I'm glad you got Bella's message. What are you doing at home?" Anna asked her as she leaned against the wall. "Anna? Anna, where are you?" Renée frantically spoke through the phone causing Anna to stand up straight, an uncomfortable shiver down her spine. "Calm down, mom. I'm fine. Bella and I are fine," Anna reassured her as she took in steady breaths. Bella approached Anna who held out the phone for her to hear.

"Anna? Where's Bella?" Renée asked in the same worried tone. "She's here with me. We'll explain everything later, I promise," Anna assured her mother as she looked at Bella, the twins sharing saddened expressions. "Mom, are you there?" Bella asked after it went quiet. "Forks High School doesn't protect its students' privacy very well. It was just too easy for Victoria to find your previous address," James' chilling voice came through through the phone.

"It's a nice house you have here. I was prepared to wait for you, but then Mom came home after she received a very worried call from your dad, and it all worked out quite well," James continued in a taunting tone as Bella grabbed the phone from Anna, the blonde curled up her fists angrily. The wave of anger that washed over her was strong and she wanted nothing more than to make James beg her for mercy.

"Wait, wait... Don't touch her! Don't..." Bella begged into the phone but Anna couldn't hear the responses as she looked out the window. "Where should we meet you?" Bella asked. Anna looked at her sister with a nod, it may seem stupid but they wouldn't risk their mother's life. "How about your old ballet studio? And I'll know if you bring any strays. Poor mommy would pay the price for that mistake," James warned them before hanging up the phone.

Alice and Colton had left to check out of the hotel, while Jasper and Edward had made separate plans to split the twins and take off in different directions until James was dead. But Anna and Bella had other plans in mind, the two managed to sneak away from Alice and Colton due to Anna being able to slip through Alice's blind spots. They both climbed into a taxi and told the driver to take them to the studio they once loved with every part of them.

Anna had never had much thought about how she would die. She was never worried about death when there was so much life to enjoy in its short time, but after she met Jasper ─ that changed for her. Anna knew that one day, she wanted to turn and become a vampire ─ she wanted eternity with the Southern vampire she loved.

She hadn't told him but she hoped he knew ─ she hoped he knew that she'd never want to leave him. And as she held her big sister's hand, watching the scenery go by as they headed towards their potential and possibly inevitable death ─ she thanked whatever God out there let her fall in love with her Southern prince ─ Because she never thought she would ever fall so deeply in love.

Chapter Text

Chapter Fourteen: James' Game

"Mom?" Bella called out cautiously as she and Anna entered their old ballet studio, the twins were beyond anxious. "Bella?" Renée's voice echoed through the room. "Mom?" Anna called out as they moved further into the room before pulling back a curtain to reveal a video playing causing the twins' hearts to drop at the realisation that they fell for James' game. "Anna? Bella? There you two are. What are you both doing in here?" Renée asked them.

"Everyone was making fun of Bella. I didn't want her to be alone," Anna's voice replied, the young version of her holding her older sister close. "Come on, you're a wonderful dancer," Renée encouraged her older daughter. "Mom, I suck. At least Anna can dance," Young Bella replied while young Anna sighed. "You do not suck," Renée and young Anna said in unison causing them all to giggle.

"That's my favourite part. You were a stubborn child, weren't you? It's strange knowing that you're the eldest but Annabeth is the youngest ─ you act like it's the opposite," James' voice echoed through the room causing uncomfortable shivers to spur down Anna's spine at the sense of danger. "She's not even here," Bella stuttered out fearfully. James approached the twins, Anna instantly stood in front of Bella watching James' every move.

"Even in the face of danger..." James cooed at Anna as he caressed her face, inhaling deeply as he did so. "You... smell... delicious..." James spoke before grabbing Anna's arm and throwing her to the side. "But I'll get to you," James told her as she hit the ground, her side burnt up with pain from the impact ─ her wrist made an uncomfortable crack that echoed through the room bringing tears to her eyes.

"You know, you really made it too easy. So, to make things more entertaining," James began as he pushed Bella into the room, leaning in close to her. "I'm gonna make a little film of our time together," James told her before holding up a familiar camera. "I borrowed this from your house. I hope you don't mind," James informed the twins with a sadistic smile resting on his face. Anna pushed off the ground and stood up slowly as James began recording.

"Action," James spoke as Anna made her way over, pushing James away from Bella which only entertained the nomad. "You're stronger than I thought, Annabeth. I gotta admit, you fascinate me. How are you such a strong little singer?" James asked with a smirk before grabbing her pained wrist and twisting it causing another crack to echo through the room followed by a scream. "That's gotta break little Jasper's heart, huh?" James taunted as Bella grabbed Anna and pulled her close.

"Leave her alone!" Bella shouted at James gaining his attention again. James shoved the camera into Bella's face, "That'll break Edward's little heart too." Anna scoffed at James' games as she held her broken wrist to her chest. "You have... They have nothing to do with this!" Anna told him angrily, her eyes darkened harshly as she glared at the nomad ─ standing protectively in front of her older sister.

"But they do. Their rage will make for a more interesting sport than their feeble attempt at protecting the two of you," James replied to her as Bella held Anna close with the same strong sense of protective nature as her sister. "And let's continue..." James taunted as he stepped back, Bella pulled her pepper spray out before spraying him in the face ─ she grabbed Anna's uninjured arm before the two made a run for it.

James jumped over the twins and landed in front of them with an amused smirk on his pale features. James grabbed Bella and threw her across the floor into one of the pillars, she hit her head on the pillar upon the impact. "Oh, Anna... You would make an incredible newborn. The strength, the speed and most of all, that strong personality yet... they keep you as this fragile little human," James taunted as he walked towards her before grabbing her arm.

"And I just think it's cruel," James said with faux concern before smirking. "Now... that tasteful blood," James licked his lips before leaning towards Anna's throat, she quickly raised her knee to his stomach before grabbing his arm ─ ignoring the pain in her broken wrist ─ and twisting it around in his moment of shock, filling the room with the sound of marble cracking and a growl that left James' lips as Bella watched her younger sister take on a vampire.

James grabbed Anna harshly and threw her across the room into one of the mirrors, the glass shattered at the impact before Anna hit the ground. James moved his shoulder around growling harshly at the knowledge that Anna was capable of such strength as a human ─ she'd make a lethal vampire in his eyes.

James made his way over to Bella, kneeling in front of her with the camera back in his hands and recording her. "It's too bad he didn't have the strength to turn you. Instead, he kept you this fragile little human," James taunted her before crushing her leg, breaking the bones on impact causing Bella to scream out in pain. "Now, tell Edward how much it hurts. Tell him to avenge you. Tell him!" James screamed at her before Edward showed up.

Edward threw James off of Bella as Anna pushed off of the ground again, her body begging her to stop moving but the screams of her sister pushed her to keep fighting ─ something inside of her pleaded with her to protect them all. "You're alone 'cause you're faster than the others. But not stronger," James taunted Edward as he threw him against a pillar. "I'm strong enough to kill you," Edward told James before kicking him into a mirror.

Edward rushed over to Bella, picking her up into his arms as Anna nodded at him. "I'm sorry," Edward whispered to Anna as he prepared to leave with Bella in his arms but James grabbed Edward's foot and dragged him down. Bella rolled across the floor that was covered in glass shards before James approached her, rolling up her sleeve and smirking before biting down on her wrist when a sudden euphoric smell entered his nose.

James lifted his head to see Anna standing a few feet away with a piece of glass in her hands, blood trickling down her arm causing James to go into a frenzy. Edward looked over as he finally pushed himself up from the ground, his eyes widened as James moved quickly before sinking his teeth into her shoulder but she didn't scream, she didn't whimper nor did she cry. Slowly, Anna dropped to her knees as someone else came rushing in ─ tearing James away from Anna and growling harshly.

Anna fell to the side, her drooping eyes locked with Bella's pained ones as she screamed in pain from the burning venom; not an ounce of venom coursed through Anna leaving her confused in her fading state. Alice dropped by Bella and tied a belt around her leg to stop the bleeding as Emmett and Colton held James in place ─ Jasper stalking him like a lion stalking its prey, the glare on his face was deadly as he projected so much fear onto James, the nomad vampire began to whimper against his will.

Anna's focus faded in and out as Alice approached her, wrapping the bleeding wounds on her arm before applying pressure to the bite on her shoulder. "Bella needs you," Carlisle told Edward, the vampire was frozen in a state of shock by the way Anna handled herself to protect him and Bella. Jasper had torn James' head from his body in the most painful way he knew how ─ A kill he would never regret as his brothers tore off James' arms.

"Jasper!" Alice called for her brother, he turned and looked at his mate before rushing over and dropping to his knees. "Darlin'..." Jasper whimpered as he rested his hand on the side of her face, she opened her eyes to look up at him ─ a small smile appeared on her face as she looked into his ochre eyes. "Y-Your n-not t-tempted..." Anna stuttered out with a proud smile. "I guess not, darlin'," Jasper replied before lifting her into his arms.

"B-Bella?" Anna asked him as they walked out of the ballet studio which unfortunately became a victim of arson to cover their tracks. "She's gonna be okay, darlin'. You focus on yourself," Jasper told her, he focused on the blue of her eyes. Black spots began to cloud her vision from the blood loss, she let out a slow breath before letting her eyes close. "Darlin'?" Jasper spoke before shaking her slightly, Carlisle walked up next to him. "She's gonna be fine," Carlisle assured him.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

When they got to the hospital, the twins were taken to separate rooms instantly and the Cullens were left out in the waiting room nervously pacing. Rosalie had shown up, running straight into Emmett's arms for comfort as she waited to hear any news about her best friend. Edward had moved them aside and told them what had happened from the moment he arrived to the moment they had all arrived.

Jasper had to be held back from Edward by Emmett and Colton when Edward mentioned he was going to leave with Bella ─ explaining that it was Anna's choice to save them over her own life. Rosalie was unhappy with the information, she stood with Jasper along with Emmett while Alice and Colton understood Edward's perspective and Anna's decision to protect them rather than herself. "Alice, was this what you saw?" Colton asked his mate in reference to her vision from the night of Anna's mental attack.

Jasper looked to his sister with raised brows but he wasn't reassured when Alice shook her head. "This wasn't the vision I saw," Alice told them before Jasper walked away, he needed to be closer to his darling. It wasn't long till Carlisle found Jasper, the blond vampire perked up at the sight of his father and walked towards him with an anxious gaze while Carlisle held a calm demeanour in hopes it'd help Jasper.

"She's out of surgery now. She had to get metal stints in her wrist, she had stitches done on her arm where she cut herself with the glass shard. And they've done a blood transfer, she should be fine in the next few days," Carlisle explained to Jasper who let out a slow unnecessary breath that helped him feel better. "Come on, I'll take you to her," Carlisle instructed before leading Jasper to the room where Anna was asleep.

Jasper felt his non-beating heartbreak at the state his darling was in, he sat down on the chair next to her and grabbed her uninjured hand ─ he left a delicate kiss on her knuckles before watching her stir in her sleep. "J-Jasper..." Anna breathed out in a hoarse tone, he instantly stood up and leaned over her. "Hello, darlin'. You're safe now," Jasper assured her as she smiled softly. "I'm always safe with you, Jasper Hale. Always," Anna muttered out sleepily.

He smiled as her eyelids fluttered, a content sigh left her lips as she held Jasper's hand tighter. "Don't blame yourself, Jasper. It was my decision and I don't regret it," Anna added knowing that Jasper was holding guilt. "What did I do to deserve you?" Jasper whispered to her as she smirked. "I'm not a gift to you for good behaviour. You're a gift to me for good behaviour," Anna teased making Jasper chuckle, easing the tension in his shoulders.

"I love you, Jasper Hale," Anna spoke softly as she looked up at him ─ Stormy Blue gazing lovingly at the ochre of the earth's crust. Jasper leaned down and kissed Anna's lips delicately, afraid she might disappear as if this was all some horrid nightmare ─ despite him not being able to dream. "I love you, Annabeth Swan. More than you will ever know," Jasper whispered to her, his lips brushing against hers with every word before they kissed again.

Chapter Text

Chapter Fifteen: Prom Night

Anna ─ with Jasper's assistance ─ walked into Bella's hospital room sporting a cast for her broken wrist. "Hey Bells. How are you feeling?" Anna asked her sister as she sat down ─ wincing from the bruising on her side ─ and grabbed her older sister's hand. "I'm doing better. How are you?" Bella asked Anna, the two smiled at each other. "I'm doing great. I have my Southern love looking after me," Anna answered before looking up at her boyfriend, the pale blond smiled down at her before kissing her temple.

Edward smiled at the two before looking at his own girlfriend, Bella's eyes lit up at the sight of her little sister's smile. The four of them broke into a conversation in hopes to distract their minds from the nightmare that James had created; Anna had finally relaxed for the first moment since the day at the baseball game and in turn, Jasper was able to relax with her. It wasn't long till Carlisle came into the room telling them that social time was over and the twins needed more rest.

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"I am so glad to be out of the hospital," Anna expressed as she walked alongside Jasper through the woods behind the Cullen home. "You know, you scared me... Going after James, standing up to him..." Jasper's body tensed as the memories flashed back to him ─ the sight of Anna's pale body from blood loss made his throat burn and his eyes darken. Anna slowly placed her hand on the side of his face, she didn't wish to overstep while he was angry but he melted against her hand and his eyes brightened.

"I agree that it was stupid but... my mother could've been at risk and I knew I couldn't let her suffer because I fell in love with a vampire. I don't regret either action, Jasper Hale," Anna assured him with a soothing smile, her calming aura enveloped Jasper like a warm blanket that washed away every ounce of pain, doubt and suffering he had ever felt. The two kissed softly before they continued their way through the woods until Jasper suddenly stopped and turned to Anna, running his fingers through his hair.

"Are you okay?" Anna asked him as she interlocked their fingers. "I, uh... wow, I've never been so nervous in my life ─ which is new for me," Jasper stuttered out causing Anna to smirk. This was a new situation they were in, Jasper was always confident around her but this nervous sight was quite the sight for Anna Swan and she was relishing in it. "You need a minute?" Anna teased Jasper, the blond looked up at her, taking notice of the teasing grin on her face.

Jasper moved forward, grabbing Anna's waist and pulling her closer to him with his own grin as Anna's face flushed pink looking up at him. "You need a minute?" Jasper teased back due to Anna's flustered expression, the blonde human let out a shaky breath before resting her hands on his chest. "Anna Swan, you have changed my life for the better. For decades I was convinced that I deserved nothing but the worst until the first moment I saw you, that was the day my heart learnt to beat again," Jasper expressed softly.

"So Annabeth Swan, would you do me the honour of being my date to prom?" Jasper asked her, his emotions were struck with nerves as she stood silent in front of him. "Yes," Anna answered simply before she smiled at him. "Who else would I go with? I mean... Rose might go with me-" Anna started with a teasing tone before Jasper slammed his lips against her with a possessive growl. Anna melted into his arms, her heart steadied its pace as she let herself memorize the moment, ensuring she never forgot this moment.

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Anna let out an anxious breath as she stepped up in front of the mirror, her lacey pink dress sat perfectly with her curves. "I can't believe you bought this for me..." Anna breathed out before turning her attention to Bella, she was wearing a purple dress with her moon boot. "I saw how much you loved it and I knew it would be perfect for you," Bella told her with a smile. Anna smiled back at her reflection, her light makeup and pinned hair left her astounded. She finally slipped on her cream-beige heels, flattening out her light-pink lace dress before nodding at Bella.

Bella went down the stairs first, Edward watched her with adoration in his eyes. He admired the beauty of his mate , the way she smiled at him despite the awkward waddle in her step from the moon boot. Once Bella reached him, she turned and called for Anna to walk down. The blonde anxiously fiddled with the brace on her wrist before making her way down the steps. Her ocean eyes locked with Jasper's golden ones, and both of them halted their breath.

Jasper was wearing black slacks, a white button-up with a black blazer and his hair was gelled back causing Anna's heart to swoon at the sight of him. "You are... breath-taking, darlin'," Jasper breathed out as Anna stopped in front of him. His eyes travelled up and down her body before finally locking with her eyes as she spoke, "Why thank you, Jasper." Jasper smirked at Anna's attempt to copy his Southern drawl, he was impressed by the accuracy but he'd rather have the soothing tone she already carried within her accent.

"Photos!" Renée cheered catching everyone's attention ─ despite the fact she was smirking in pure bliss at the sight of her daughters being in love. Anna playfully nudged Bella and Edward forward before stepping to the side with Jasper, the couple smirked as Edward laughed and Bella glared at her younger sister. After Renée took a bunch of photos of each couple and then the twins themselves, the separate couples split off to separate cars for the drive to the school.

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Anna and Jasper had arrived after Bella and Edward, the two made their way in spotting Eric and Angela on the stage by the DJ station while Jessica and Mike danced on the dancefloor with each other. The sight made Anna smile happily as they all waved at each other until Tyler and Lauren approached them with smiles. "So much for Jacksonville?" Tyler teased before hugging Anna, he looked down at her wrist with a sigh. "What happened?" Tyler asked with furrowed brows.

"I tripped over and landed harshly on my wrist on a hike. I know... laugh it up," Anna lied flawlessly while Tyler and Lauren laughed ─ both believing the story. "Go dance, Ty," Anna told her best friend before motioning to Lauren who kept looking out at the dancing crowd. "Shall we?" Tyler asked Lauren as he offered his arm to her, she smiled and took it before they walked away. Anna smiled at the large crowd of teenagers dancing around before looking up at Jasper, his eyes had darkened.

Without words, Anna grabbed Jasper's hands and led him out of the room allowing him to relax as they spotted Edward and Bella on a gazebo dancing together. Anna led Jasper a little further away from the party which caught his attention, he looked at his mate as she walked with a determined expression. They headed into the school away from the auditorium and into the biology classroom. "Why are we here?" Jasper asked Anna as she let go of his hand.

"This was where we spoke for the first time and after begging Mr Molina to allow me access to the room, I thought it's where we could have our own prom," Anna answered before she pressed play on the radio, a soothing country song began to play throughout the room. "I knew how much you'd struggle within the large crowd after what has happened. Plus I'm not a big fan of large crowds either," Anna expressed as she walked towards him.

"May I have this dance?" Anna asked Jasper with her hand held out to him, a wide grin appeared on his face as he slipped his hand into hers. "It'd be an honour, ma'am," Jasper replied before he moved his hands to her waist, her arms wrapped around his shoulders. "Here" by Rascal Flatts played through the room as Jasper and Anna swayed back and forth in each other's arms. Anna began singing along to the words ─ Jasper swooned listening to her soft tone as she sang the words to him.

Jasper swung Anna out before spinning her back into his arms, the two laughed happily together before Anna snuggled her head against his chest. "Anna..." Jasper whispered into her hair with his eyes closed. "Yes, Jasper?" Anna asked him as she lifted her head to look into his eyes. "I need you to be honest with me," Jasper asked him as he caressed her face. "Do you have any intentions─" Jasper began but Anna kissed his lips softly before resting her hands on his face, she smiled as Taylor Swift's "Love Story" began.

"I want eternity with you, Jasper Whitlock," Anna whispered to him causing Jasper to look down at the words. He could hear Bella telling Edward that she wanted to be a vampire and Jasper had to agree with Edward, no matter how pained Jasper felt at the thought of ever losing Annabeth Swan; he wouldn't ─ couldn't ─ subject her to the life of a monster. "But you wanna know the only conditions I have about it before you panic?" Anna asked him softly.

"I want to wait... until after graduation ─ preferably once I'm nineteen or twenty latest," Anna teased bringing a smile to Jasper's face. "I know what you fear Jasper. I'd never resent you for the choice I made nor would I ever blame you for it," Anna assured him as they rested their foreheads against each other. "I love you, Jasper Whitlock and I want eternity with you because you aren't just the moon in my night sky, you are the one who makes me love every part of me," Anna leaned in and kissed Jasper softly.

"Eternity?" Jasper whispered against her lips. "Eternity with you, Jasper," Anna corrected before Jasper wrapped his arms around her and spun her around causing her to laugh happily. The Soulbound couple danced the rest of the night away in each other's arms, the pure euphoric aura that surrounded them left smiles on both of their faces. Anna began singing to Jasper ─ Taylor Swift's Crazier leaving Anna's lips softly as they danced around the biology room with no ounce of worry for what came tomorrow.

Annabeth Swan never understood true love until she meet Jasper Whitlock ─ She was home.

Chapter Text

Chapter Sixteen: Birthday Promise

"It was a nightmare, Bella. You need to relax," Anna told her sister as she finished up her hair ─ Bella had told Anna about her dream in regards to growing old while Edward didn't age which happens to be Bella's fear. "What do I do?" Bella asked Anna as she laid back against Anna's bed with a sigh. "Tell Edward what you dreamt about then move forward. There is no point in letting your mind drown you in what-ifs," Anna advised her before grabbing her phone off the charger.

"Now, it's our eighteenth birthday not our eightieth, so you need to relax," Anna told Bella as she pushed her out of the room and towards the stairs. "Anna... I think gravity is calling me," Bella dramatically spoke causing Anna's eyes to widen. "Don't you dare!" Anna shouted as Bella leaned back letting her weight fall against Anna until they both fell to the floor. "Why are you like this?" Anna muttered to her sister while Charlie laughed seeing the playful nature that always appeared between the sisters.

Anna and Bella made it downstairs where Charlie stood by the table ─ sitting on the table were a few gifts that made Anna smile while Bella frowned. "Happy birthday girls," Charlie told them with a smile on his face. "I thought we agreed to no presents," Bella muttered to him while Anna sat down and bit into an apple. "Well, the ones from me aren't wrapped, so it doesn't count," Charlie defended as Anna smiled at the new book ─ Pride And Prejudice.

"Thanks, Dad!" Anna cheered with a smile before placing her new book into her bag, the twins smiled at each other as Bella held up the camera. "It goes with this one from your mom. We coordinated. Well, she coordinated me," Charlie told them as Bella unwrapped the gift from their mother. Anna smiled at her gift, a new journal with a small pocket for a photo. "It's to put your pictures in from Senior year," Charlie explained to Bella while the twins cringed.

Neither of them could believe they were eighteen and Seniors, it still felt surreal to the two of them even with everything that had happened. "Senior year..." Charlie breathed out. "How'd you two get so old so fast?" Charlie asked causing Anna to laugh while Bella panicked. "I didn't. It's not that old," Bella defended quickly. "I don't know. Is that a grey hair?" Charlie asked as he leaned in closer causing Bella to rush to a mirror.

"Nice one, Dad," Anna told Charlie who laughed. "That's really funny," Bella replied to Charlie sarcastically. "Come on, Bells. You gotta relax," Anna told her sister before kissing Charlie's cheek and heading out to the car. "It's not funny, Anna," Bella scolded softly but Anna just laughed at Bella as they got into the red Ute. "Another missing hiker brings the total to three presumed dead. Rangers are searching for the killer animal─" The radio announcer spoke before Anna changed the channel.

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"Trouble!" Tyler called out as Anna climbed out of the car, she smiled at her best friend as Eric, Angela, Mike and Jessica approached Bella. "Today's the big day, Bella," Jessica told Bella causing her to freeze while Anna rolled her eyes. "R and J essay due," Jessica added which relaxed Bella. "Happy birthday," Tyler told Anna before handing her a small gift bag, she smiled up at him before pulling out a small velvet box. She opened it to reveal a silver bracelet with "T" and "A" charms.

"I love it, Ty. Thank you," Anna told him before they hugged. "You two! Join the photo," Eric called gaining their attention, Anna smiled at Bella before walking over to the group and getting in the photo. "You'll photoshop this if my nose looks big, right?" Jessica asked anxiously while Anna laughed quietly with Tyler. "Don't worry, I'm in the picture. No one will be looking at you guys," Eric boasted causing the others to laugh.

"That's good," Bella told them as the Cullens pulled into the car lot gaining the Swan twins' attention. "Oh, good. Cullen's here," Mike spoke while Eric cheered weakly, they still hadn't adapted to Bella's relationship with Edward or Anna's with Jasper. "Well, talk to you later," Jessica told the twins before they walked away. "See you later, Trouble," Tyler told Anna before the two fist-bumped. "Happy birthday," Edward told Anna as he walked past her, she smiled in response.

Anna jogged up to Jasper and practically jumped into his arms, the two kissed passionately before he placed her down, holding her against his body before they slowly pulled away from each other. "Happy birthday, darlin'," Jasper whispered to Anna before kissing her swiftly again. "Thank you, my love," Anna replied before she noticed the small bag. "Jas... you didn't have to get me anything," Anna told him with a small soft smile.

"I wanted to," Jasper told her before taking an unnecessary breath. Anna took the gift bag as he held it out to her, he leaned back against his car watching as she opened it to reveal a maroon velvet box. She delicately held the small box in her hand as Jasper took the bag and placed it into the car before turning his attention to her. Anna carefully opened the box and let out a quiet gasp at the ring resting in the box, her eyes watered slightly as she gently ran her finger across the bloodstone.

"It belonged to my mother and I want you to have it," Jasper whispered to her as he wrapped his arms around her from behind. "Jas..." Anna breathed out in amazement, he could feel the love and adoration coming off of her. "It's a promise. A promise that I will always love you. That─ That I promise you eternity," Jasper told her causing Anna to turn around and look at him with a wide smile on her face. "You do?" Anna asked him as a tear fell from her eye. "I do," Jasper whispered before the two kissed.

"This is my promise to you, darlin'," Jasper told her as he slipped the ring onto her ring finger, the two kissed again before Jasper growled. He turned his head to see Jacob standing there watching them closely with a glare on his face, Bella had just walked away from him and Jasper knew that Jacob wanted to talk to Anna. "He wants to talk to you," Jasper spoke coldly before locking eyes with Edward, they weren't sure what Jacob knew but they had to be careful.

Anna swiftly kissed Jasper on the lips before making her way over to Jacob, a smile slowly appeared on his face as she got closer to him. "Hey, Jakey!" Anna cheered before the two hugged each other. "Happy birthday, Bethy," Jacob replied despite his glare towards Jasper. The two pulled away from each other with happy smiles on their faces. "So, to what do I the pleasure of your visit?" Anna asked with a smirk on her face, "Other than you wanting to see Bella more than me."

"Ouch! Actually, I wanted to give you a gift," Jacob told her before holding up keys causing Anna's brows to furrow before her eyes widened. "No way!" Anna cheered before snatching the keys. "You didn't, did you?" Anna asked him before Embry and Quil walked up pushing a motorbike. "Holy shit!" Anna breathed out before walking up to the bike, she ran her fingers across the matte black bike and let her bottom lip pout out. "This is..." Anna took in a deep breath before looking at the three boys.

"It's from me and Dad," Jacob told her before she hugged him again. "I love it!" Anna cheered before hugging Embry and Quil. "Why are they getting hugs? They didn't do anything?" Jacob asked with furrowed brows while the two boys laughed. "Because they assisted you, Jakey. Be nice!" Anna scolded with a smirk before walking away from them and sitting on the motorbike.

"Gotta admit, you look good on a bike," Embry expressed with a smirk on his face while Anna rolled her eyes. "And you'd look good on the other side of a door," Anna teased making Quil and Jacob laugh. "That's sweet," Embry replied sarcastically. "But in all seriousness, this is freaking awesome. Thank you," Anna told Jacob genuinely before hugging him again.

"You're welcome. Now, we need to get going or we'll be late for school," Jacob replied before grabbing Embry and Quil ─ the two were attempting to flirt with a couple of Seniors. "Bye, boys!" Anna called out to them with a giggle before looking back at her new motorbike. "I don't know whether to focus on the fact you look real good on that bike or the fact you could get seriously hurt," Jasper's drawl made her smirk as he walked up behind her.

"Would a little bit of both be acceptable?" Anna asked as she turned to look at her boyfriend, the Southern Charmer was already smirking at her. "I guess that can work, darlin'. How about we move it by my car?" Jasper asked. "Good idea," Anna answered but before she could attempt to move it, Jasper had already beaten her to it without a threat of sweat. "I bet that inhuman strength is great about now, huh?" Anna asked teasingly as she followed him.

"Oh, darlin'... This strength isn't just 'cause I'm inhuman ," Jasper teased with a smirk that sent a pleasurable chill down her spine. " Oh lord... " Anna whispered causing Jasper's smirk to deepen before he suddenly trapped her between him and his car. "Careful darlin', I feel that too..." Jasper whispered to Anna who shuddered under his gaze, her knees were weak and her heart was racing in joy. Anna leaned forward and kissed Jasper, the vampire didn't hesitate to kiss her back.

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"You aren't serious!?" Tyler shrieked as he and Anna walked down the hall towards their next class. "I am serious, Ty. Jakey got me a whole bike for my birthday so you may have some serious competition in the best friend role," Anna teased with a smirk while Tyler pouted. "That's not funny," Tyler replied before the two began laughing together. "Anna!" Alice's sweet voice caught the blonde's attention. "I'll see you in class," Anna told Tyler who nodded before walking away leaving Anna with Alice and Colton.

"Happy birthday!" Alice cheered with a smile before pulling Anna into a tight hug. "Thank you!" Anna gasped back with a wide smile. "Careful love, you need to remember she's fragile and I don't think Jasper will appreciate you breaking his mate," Colton warned his love with a small smirk. "It's alright, Colton. I'm fine," Anna assured him as Alice let go. "I'm glad you are excited for your birthday," Alice told her cheerfully before a smirk appeared on her face.

"What did you see?" Anna asked with narrowed eyes but the smile on her face only made Alice smile back. "I can't say but you will find out soon," Alice answered with a wide grin before holding out a small bag. "Alice, you really didn't─" Anna began but Alice cut her off. "They're earrings and I've already seen that you love them, plus they match your dress for the party tonight," Alice informed her with her usual cheery tone.

"I do not doubt that. However, I was unaware of a birthday party considering Bella wants to avoid celebrating our birthday," Anna expressed with a sigh before opening the velvet box that revealed some gorgeous bloodstone earrings that matched the ring resting on her finger. "Oh wow... they are beautiful," Anna breathed out before pulling Alice into a hug. "Thank you!" Anna cheered as she pulled away from Alice.

"Of course! Now, I'll let you get to class but remember to look really good for tonight," Alice told her before winking causing Anna to furrow her brows. "Bye!" Alice waved as she and Colton walked away leaving Anna stunned with unknown knowledge yet content excitement. She made her way into class and took her seat next to Tyler, due to the assigned seats in mathematics. Anna turned her head to look at Jasper who smirked at her though Anna found it strange not seeing Emmett next to him.

"Excited" Jasper mouthed to her making her smile and nod. "It'll be great," Anna mouthed back as the teacher began class. Anna had no idea what the Cullen family had planned for her and Bella's eighteenth birthday but she assumed that she would love it and Bella was bound to hate it which made it all the more interesting. Though, Anna felt like tonight was gonna change things and she wasn't quite sure whether or not that was a good thing yet.

Chapter Text

Chapter Seventeen: Control Is Overrated

Anna stood next to Bella's locker at the end of the day, both respective boyfriends were nowhere in sight but they didn't mind. "So, how are you really feeling about the party tonight?" Anna asked Bella with a smirk on her face. "I don't know, Anna. I mean, it's sweet but you know how I feel about birthdays," Bella answered Anna before closing her locker, she leaned back against it; Bella never had an issue with their birthday until she met Edward so Anna was glad Alice was eager to celebrate for them. "Well, I have a feeling that things will change tonight," Anna told Bella as she linked their arms together.

"And is that change good or bad?" Bella asked her twin sister. "I'm not sure yet. You know me and these strange feelings, they are fairly vague," Anna reminded Bella who nodded in agreement. "And come on, you may hate the idea of being older than Edward ─ despite the technical age difference ─ but you should enjoy it while you can if you truly want to change," Anna told Bella as they walked out to the parking lot.

"You have a point there. Has Jasper?" Bella asked Anna who smiled widely. "After graduation for certain, but when I turn nineteen definitely," Anna answered before turning the ring on her finger. "That's beautiful," Bella told her as she grabbed Anna's hand and looked down at the ring on her finger. "Jasper's gift to me as a promise. He told me that it belonged to his mother," Anna explained with a light blush on her cheeks and a smile of adoration on her face.

"He really loves you," Bella said with a smile, she was happy for Anna; she once worried that Anna wouldn't find real love but she no longer worried about that. "And I really, really love him," Anna replied to Bella before they stopped by the truck. "Well, I got a bike to ride," Anna told Bella before hugging her. "See you at home," Bella told Anna who pulled a helmet onto her head. She swung her leg over the bike and kickstarted it, the engine purred bringing a smile to Anna's face. It had been too long since Anna had been on a bike and she hadn't realised how much she missed it until she soared out of the parking lot.

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Anna added the final touches to her outfit, the new earrings from Alice fit nicely with the maroon dress she wore. She slipped on some black felt high heels before making her way downstairs where Jasper stood waiting for her in dark jeans and a black buttoned-up shirt, his eyes were focused purely on her like she was the only person in the world that mattered. Her heart skipped a beat at the look on his face before a thought raced across her mind startling her; You look ravishing, darlin'.

Jasper smirked as Anna's cheeks flushed red, her heart began racing and he knew by the sudden surprise that the thought crossed her mind. The Cullens had been doing their research about Anna's sudden abilities and they had learnt that they began after her last visit in Forks ─ Carlisle assumed that was when the bond between Jasper and Anna began. They weren't certain about why Anna had these abilities or why Alice couldn't see anything about Anna's future except for her taking her final breath on a white patch of snow but they wouldn't give up finding their answers.

"You look handsome," Annabeth complimented her Southern lover, the vampire smirked before taking her hand and pulling her closer to him. "Happy birthday, my love," Jasper whispered to her before leaning forward, though with Charlie watching, he rested his lips delicately on her cheek rather than her lips. The couple said their farewell to Charlie before making their way out to the car, Anna smiled widely as he opened the car door for her.

Soon enough, the Soulbound couple had reached the Cullen household after Bella and Edward had arrived. The moment the blonde entered the foyer, Rosalie had pulled her into a tight embrace causing the younger Swan girl to laugh quietly. "I've missed you too, Rose," Anna told her as she hugged her back. Rosalie and Emmett had graduated the year prior, she and Emmett had left Forks for a holiday.

"Happy birthday, Beth," Rosalie replied as she pulled back and held out a small bag for her, a wide smile on her face. "You didn't have to," Anna replied as she opened the bag, she hadn't noticed Bella watching in envy or the slight glare on Edward's face at the fact that Rosalie held no dislike towards the blonde twin while resenting the brunette twin; even Anna felt a sense of guilt over it but Jasper was quick to wash that away. "Oh wow!" Anna exclaimed as she pulled out a keyring with a mini diamond Eiffel Tower.

"I know you wanna see the tower in person one day but for now, we thought you'd appreciate that, Anna Banana," Emmett told her as he wrapped his arm around Rosalie. "I love it. Thank you," Annabeth hugged the immortal couple with a teary smile. "Nice dress choice," Colton teased as he and Alice stepped forward. "I thought the red would fit your aesthetic," Anna teased back with a smirk as Jasper placed his arm around Anna's waist. "It certainly does," Jasper teased back, the family happy that he was so relaxed.

"Show me the love," Alice told Anna and Jasper, the two looked at each other with smiles on their faces as Alice snapped a photo of them. "Absolutely stunning!" Alice cheered as she stepped to the side letting Carlisle and Esme step forward. "Happy birthday, Annabeth," Esme said as she hugged the younger girl, the blonde melted happily in the motherly embrace. "Thank you, Esme," Anna replied before smiling at Carlisle as he held out an envelope.

"You and Bella share a gift," Carlisle informed her, the blonde smiled at her sister and motioned for the older Swan twin to open it. "Something to brighten your day," Carlisle added as he looked at the twins. "You've both been looking a little pale," Esme added with a tone that suggested she was hinting at the gift. Anna watched as Bella tried to open the envelope but like time moved in slow motion, Bella cut her finger open causing blood to drip.

Annabeth turned her head to Jasper whose eyes were black and focused on the blood on Bella's finger. Anna grabbed Jasper's face and slammed her lips to his, the action blinded Jasper's senses allowing him to focus on the blonde as Anna pushed Jasper back away from the scene. However, Colton made a move for Bella causing Edward to shove Bella back into a glass vase only making it all worse than it was. Anna's eyes lit up a vibrant blue as she focused on her boyfriend rather than her sister knowing that Carlisle would handle that.

"Jas..." Anna whispered against his lips as Emmett, Alice and Rosalie dragged Colton out of the room. "Darlin'..." Jasper whispered back as he fought the urge, he was trying so hard to focus on Anna and not the blood or the suffocating thirst of everyone else in the room as Carlisle took Bella into another room to stitch her up. "Let's take a walk," Anna told him, the vampire nodded before wrapping his arms around her and rushing out of the house into the woods.

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"Stay back..." Jasper ordered Anna once they had stopped, he moved away from her and began pacing. "You did good, Jasper. You controlled yourself with little assistance─" Anna was cut off by Jasper cornering her against a tree; her heart skipping a beat excitedly at the action rather than out of fear. "I wanted to hurt her, Annabeth. I wanted to drain every drop and for a moment..." Jasper trailed off as he looked down in shame. "You wanted to drain me?" Anna asked without fear or hesitation.

"I... I'm dangerous... Annabeth. Could you ever be safe with me?" Jasper asked her in a quiet voice, he carried so much doubt for himself. "Jasper Whitlock, you do not get to play this game!" Anna snapped at him causing him to look up at her. "Control is overrated, Jas. You're not a monster, you're a vampire. And like a lion, you have your natural instincts linked with empathy which means that room of thirst hit you harder, and yet... you managed to stay by my side," Anna said as she placed her hands on either side of his face.

"If I am truly damned to Hell, then you just may be my saving grace," Jasper whispered to Anna before claiming her lips, his hands moved to her waist and pulled her close to him as her arms wove their way around his shoulders. The passion and love that Jasper was pushing through his kiss sent Annabeth into overdrive, her heart racing as her stomach filled with butterflies. She felt like she was on cloud nine as the Soulbound couple cherished the moment. Jasper had never felt such euphoria except for when Anna was near, her touch, her taste and her presence is everything to Jasper Whitlock.

"Jump," Jasper mumbled to her, his lips moving from her own down her jaw as she jumped up and wrapped her legs around his hips. Without even noticing, Jasper had carried Annabeth back to the house and to his room. And while she didn't notice the place was empty, Jasper did and he wasn't gonna let this moment go to waste as he carefully pushed her against the wall letting his lips trail down her neck as she clenched her eyes shut.

"Jasper..." Anna moaned sending a shiver of delight down Jasper's spine, his mind fighting between stopping or continuing ─ he was desperate to claim the woman he loved with everything he was but he feared hurting her more than anything. "Darlin'..." Jasper breathed out as he pulled away slightly, he opened his eyes to see the absolute beauty that was Anna's lustful eyes begging for him to continue, her breath was ragged and desperate while her lips were swollen.

"I don't want to hurt you..." Jasper whispered to her, resting his forehead against hers. "I trust you, Jasper," Anna assured him before letting out a breath. "I'm ready to be yours, to fall under your spell completely but only if you feel comfortable to, okay?" Anna told him with a soft smile that made him feel like his dead heart had skipped a beat. Jasper pressed his lips to hers softly before nodding, "If you trust me... maybe it's time I learn to trust myself."

Anna smiled as she motioned for him to put her down, the vampire furrowed his brows as she walked around him, sensually dragging her hand across his chest in the process before standing at the end of the bed. Anna bit her lip as she removed her jewellery and placed them on the bedside table, she removed her heels before turning back to Jasper with a seductive smile on her face that sent Jasper into a frenzy he had never felt before but pleaded he would feel again.

Anna raised her hand and with one finger, she motioned for Jasper to come closer causing a smirk to appear on his face. "You're right... control is overrated," Jasper told her before pulling her against his body and slamming his lips onto hers. Anna moved quickly to unbutton his shirt, she was thankful she managed to do so without fumbling with the buttons ─ she was quite impressed with herself. She ran her nails down his back as his lips claimed her neck, moving towards the faded bite that James had left her with.

Anna let out a quiet moan that caused a growl of pleasure to leave his throat, the possessive sound caused Anna to feel a pulse of pleasure in her lower stomach. Jasper removed Anna's dress and took a moment to admire the woman, lust built within his gaze as he admired every dip, curve, scar and flaw. "Perfect..." Jasper whispered before moving forward and claiming her lips. Jasper laid her back against the smooth covers of the bed, his lips trailing to kiss every part of her body. She moaned with every brush of his lips, every little nip of her skin along with the way his hands brushed down her thigh.

That night, Jasper and Anna made their most intimate claim by solidifying their strong bond that would later benefit the two of them for what was to come. Annabeth Swan never thought she'd find a love straight out of a novel nor did Jasper Whitlock believe he'd ever find someone who saw him as more than a monster. And as they lay in each other's arms, the blonde lamb asleep while her lion watched her chest rise and fall with every breath; they knew that no matter what came their way, they would get through it.

Chapter Text

Chapter Eighteen: Day By Day

Annabeth stretched her arms out, and a few clicks and cracks sounded as her thighs ached, a smile on her face as the memories of the intimacy between her and Jasper flashed through her mind. "Jasper?" Annabeth spoke softly as she looked around for the Southern vampire, she noticed he wasn't nearby and assumed he was talking with Carlisle about Bella's incident last night.

Annabeth pulled the sheet around her as she padded her way to the bathroom, turning the shower on to soothe her aching limbs. She closed her eyes as she let the hot water drip down her body, she ran her fingers through her hair letting the memories of the night before replay over and over again. It was her first time and was everything she'd dreamed it to be and so much more, she ran her fingers across her side before wincing slightly at the light bruises on her fair skin but that didn't deter her smile.

Wrapping the towel around herself, she turned the shower off and stepped out before facing the mirror where her smiling reflection looked back at her. "I hurt you," Jasper's voice was laced with remorse. "I barely feel it... I'm certain that if bruises showed on your porcelain skin, you'd be sporting a few and I'd be beaming with pride," Annabeth teased bringing a smile to Jasper's face. "You won't even let me feel any remorse, darlin'," Jasper whispered as he wrapped his arms around her waist.

"You don't need to feel remorse. You'd be surprised by the number of couples who leave marks on each other. Staking their claims, it saddens me a bit that I can't do the same to you," Annabeth assured her Southern charmer, placing a gentle kiss on his cheek as he turned her around; he loved her. "Get dressed... I need to talk to you," Jasper told her, a sudden frown resting upon his face. "Okay..." Annabeth answered before she kissed him, the vampire deepened the kiss almost as though it might be their last. "Meet me outside," Jasper said softly before he left the room.

Annabeth pulled on some jeans and one of Jasper's sweaters before slipping on her vans. She made her way down the stairs, tying her hair back in the process before Rosalie suddenly hugged her. "Woah, Rose. I'm not going anywhere," Annabeth assured the blonde vampire who only tightened her hold slightly before letting go. "I know but... I just want to embrace the moments we have," Rosalie told her before she was pulled away by Emmett.

"Where's Edward? I wanna annoy him later," Annabeth asked the family, they laughed at her comment before frowning. "He's with Bella," Esme informed the blonde before she led Rosalie and Emmett out of the room. "Oh-kay," Annabeth breathed out before making her way outside where Jasper was standing with his back. "All right, what is going on?" Annabeth asked Jasper with a stern yet cautious tone, he held his hand out to her, to which she hesitantly accepted.

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Jasper and Annabeth stopped at their favourite spot in the forest, the cliff edge before the reservation. Jasper let go of Annabeth's hand before focusing his pained attention on the cliff edge while Annabeth tried to understand why Jasper and his family had been acting so strange. "We're leaving Forks," Jasper suddenly said pulling Annabeth from her thoughts. "Wait, what?" Anna asked as she stepped closer to the man she loved.

"Edward wants us to leave... After Colton's incident along with my almost slip up, it isn't safe," Jasper explained, not once did he turn to look at the woman he loved, he couldn't bring himself to. "So you're leaving... just like that?" Anna asked in a quiet voice, she could feel her heart breaking along with anger building towards Edward. "Yeah, darlin'. It's better this way," Jasper told her but Anna shook her head. "For who? Edward? That's his choice to leave," Anna replied before walking closer to Jasper, she stood right behind him.

"When will you return?" Anna asked softly, Jasper closed his eyes as he felt her sadness radiating off of her in waves. "Not in your lifetime," Jasper answered with the same soft tone, repeating the words that Edward told him to say. "I refuse to believe this is the end of us, Jasper Hale," Anna told him, the vampire turned to her. "You need to accept it. I'm dangerous, darlin'. This is─" Jasper was cut off by Anna kissing him, he wanted to pull away but he couldn't bring himself to do it.

Jasper lifted Annabeth from the ground, and she responded by wrapping her legs around his waist before he moved so her back was pressed against a large boulder, trapping her against him. Their mouths moved in perfect sync, the two sharing every emotion they felt for each other sending them into a euphoric state due to Jasper's abilities. Remembering that Anna needed to breathe, Jasper reluctantly pulled away from his Soulbound, smirking when she leaned back in to continue the kiss.

"That was not how this was supposed to go," Jasper told her as he rested his forehead against hers. "When does it ever go the way you originally planned?" Anna asked with a smirk knowing he had initially wanted to keep her at an arm's length to ensure she was safe. "You have that effect on me, Annabeth Swan," Jasper told her with a small smile. Annabeth closed her eyes knowing that this didn't change the decision that had been made without her.

"I... understand. I hate it but I understand why you have to leave," Anna whispered to Jasper in a sad tone. "But... when I graduate, I'm coming to you and you can show me the world," Anna told him sternly, the Southern vampire couldn't help but chuckle at her words. "Alright, darlin'. You have yourself a deal," Jasper replied to her before letting her lean in for a more delicate kiss that left their promise accepted and locked in with no chance of backing out.

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After saying goodbye to Jasper, Annabeth had made herself comfortable in Bella's room awaiting her return knowing that she would not be one to handle this well. But as time went by, she began to realise that Bella was not returning any time soon and that concerned the blonde who was fuming with Edward. And so, deciding enough time had passed, she told Charlie and the two tried contacting Bella by phone but with no luck and that began to worry Anna and Charlie.

Soon enough, a small search team was in place as night fell and the air became cooler. Anna stood with Embry, Quil and Jacob as they waited for any news about Bella's whereabouts. To say that Anna was angry with Edward would be an understatement, she was furious with the Cullen vampire and the next time she saw him, she was gonna give him a piece of her mind. Hell, she was gonna kick his ass the moment she had the ability to do so.

"I'm gonna try the Cullens' place again," Charlie told everyone, worry pooled in his eyes. "The Cullens left town, Charlie. Good riddance," Billy told his best friend. Charlie looked over at Annabeth who looked down, her heart aching for the man she loved. "Where'd they go?" Charlie asked but got no response. "We'll find her, Charlie," Harry assured the older man as Embry rested his arm around Annabeth noticing her distant expression, Embry hated that Jasper left so willingly when someone like Anna was still here.

"Thanks, Harry," Charlie replied to the man before focusing his gaze on his blonde daughter, the blue-eyed girl was beyond worried about her sister but something told her that her brunette twin was okay. "Charlie!" Sam Uley's familiar voice caught Annabeth's attention, she looked up to see the shirtless man carrying Bella toward the group. "She's all right," Sam assured Charlie as he passed Bella to her father. "I got her. Thank you, Sam," Charlie told Sam before carrying his daughter into the house.

"Where was she?" Annabeth asked Sam as she approached him. "In the middle of the forest, extremely vulnerable," Sam answered before bowing his head slightly and walking away. Annabeth let out a slow breath before saying goodbye to Embry, Quil and Jacob. She went into the house and up the stairs where Bella's voice caught her attention. "I just want Anna..." Bella pleaded in a broken tone to Charlie, the man nodded before turning to see Annabeth standing in the doorframe.

"I'm gonna stay with her, Dad. Get some rest," Annabeth assured her father, kissing his cheek before closing Bella's door behind him. "Why'd they leave? Why did he leave me?" Bella whimpered to her sister. "I don't have the answers you want, Bell. But this is what I can tell you," Anna began as she crawled into the bed, resting Bella's head on her chest before running her fingers through her brunette locks.

"It's gonna hurt for a while, you'll feel like you're drowning... But you are gonna get through it, we'll both get through this together," Anna assured her older sister before wiping a tear of her own. "We'll take it day by day," Anna added before closing her eyes, Bella's arms wrapped around her younger sister's waist as she cried for her lost love. The twin sisters found comfort in each other that night but not for the nights to come. While one begins to drown in sorrow, the other learns to survive through the pain.

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Jasper,
It's been almost two months since you left...

Nightmares plague my sister's sleep, she rarely sleeps through the night these days. Whatever Edward said to her has left her broken and distraught. Is this the pain of rejection between fated mates? Is this what would've been my fate had I not known you more than myself? I would not know. I feel it. Everyday. It's like a part of me has been torn from my heart leaving me with this small void that threatens to secure what's left of the pieces as its own shadow.

I said I understood. We made a promise to find each other again. I know I did not say the words that mattered most in our goodbye nor did I let you say the words for yourself. I truly believe they should be shared once we are reunited again. My love, my life, my light, my moon. You are the stars in my velvet sky and yet without you, I only feel the darkness around me.

Those strange thoughts, images and flashes of past, present and future have begun to return in my times of loneliness and heartache. But it's more than mimicry of Edward's telepathic abilities or Alice's foresight in the future. It's almost like something underneath is begging to be released and yet, I have no idea what. I'm sure one of these days, it'll reveal itself in a true time of need... or so I hope.

Although you'll never receive these letters that I write, it helps me feel at ease. I can only hope that Alice is keeping you updated with my life but if not, I hope you aren't drowning in memories. I truly do believe that our time will come, my Southern love. You must believe so too. Till our time comes...

Love, Annabeth

Chapter Text

Annabeth rode her motorbike down the empty road, letting her body lean with the bike as she turned the corners. She smiled at the free feeling that riding that death machine , as her father lovingly calls it, gave her. It had been a few months since the Cullens left Forks and the blonde Swan was handling it surprisingly well with all things considered, though she missed Jasper with every fibre of her being; she understood why they had to leave. Despite still holding a grudge towards the mind reader who will be punched in the face. As she turned the corner, something crashed into the side of her sending Annabeth off of the motorbike.

Annabeth hit the pavement hard, her head splitting open from the impact as she rolled to a stop leaving her panting as she held her arm to her chest. Light steps moved toward her, she looked up to see a pale woman with dark hair and an evil smirk upon her face. "You? You're the one who tamed the Major?" The woman spoke with an overly dramatic tone, she held her head high with full confidence despite the way she looked at Annabeth; a lioness staring down its prey. Annabeth's vision blurred as her head pounded, she swallowed slowly and she eased her racing heart.

"And yet he left you here, unprotected and so, so unmarked," She taunted as she moved closer, Annabeth felt a strange sensation within her body; familiar tingles much like the night she saw the visions. "You claim unprotected, I claim otherwise," Annabeth replied as she focused on the tingles within her body, she closed her eyes from the pain within her arm and head before opening them again. Everything around her was clearer, she could see the specks of dirt in the air and the distant animals within the woods.

She turned her head to the woman who stood with wide crimson eyes, the nomad stepped back as she watched Annabeth stand from the ground with a smirk on her face. " Della Freya , it's not possible..." The woman spoke fearfully, her pale skin glistened under the slight sun while Annabeth watched her closely. The woman stepped back when a growl echoed through the empty woods, Annabeth turned her head to see a large black wolf snarling at the nomad before stepping protectively in front of the injured Annabeth Swan.

Another growl followed by a large grey wolf stepped up on the other side of Annabeth, the nomad knew her only chance of survival would be to run; she took that chance. Annabeth held her hand out to stop the wolves from chasing her, she smiled softly before locking eyes with the large black wolf, the Alpha. "Hello, Sam Uley," Annabeth greeted with a grin as her vision eased until she stumbled from the hit to her head. Both wolves moved to steady her before Sam led the woman back to the pack's homes on the Reservation.

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"Well, you aren't concussed so that's a good thing," Emily, Sam's Imprint spoke as she cleaned up the bloody wound on Annabeth's head. "That's good however, I'm more concerned about my bike," Annabeth replied before the two laughed. "Your bikes fine, Dell ," Paul spoke up as he walked in, his eyes watching Annabeth's every move. "What is that term exactly? The nomad woman called me Della Freya ," Annabeth spoke up causing the others to look at each other.

"It's a story that's told to the tribes," Sam spoke as he walked toward Emily, kissing the side of her head before resting his arms around her waist. "Who is it?" Annabeth asked, she was invested and wanted to know if it connected to the strange things happening to her. " Della Freya was a powerful witch sent by the Gods, she was there to ensure that her father's creations were safe among the creatures that roamed the shadows," Sam explained to Annabeth, her eyes alive with child-like wonder that made Emily and Sam smile.

"She fell in love with a shifter," Jared added with a cocky smirk, winking at Annabeth who shook her head with a laugh. "But a bloodsucker had claimed she was his mate while the shifter waited and waited for the imprint to come through," Paul continued for them as he crossed his arms and leaned back against the table. "What happened?" Annabeth asked as she stood up. "They learned that due to her God-like status, she couldn't be imprinted on nor could she be mated to a bloodsucker. This caused a fury in Della Freya's heart," Sam continued as he remembered the times he heard the story.

"So she split herself in two, stripped herself of her power and placed them into two souls," Emily spoke softly as she smiled up at Sam, he had told her the story many times. "Each soul had been placed within twins, one for the shifter and one for the bloodsucker," Sam said before the door opened to reveal Jacob and Embry. "Annabeth?" Jacob spoke before noticing the cut on her head. "Are you okay?" Jacob asked, he walked up to her and looked closer. "I'm fine, Jakey. Just fell off my bike turning the wet corner," Annabeth spoke before looking at Sam, he nodded gratefully.

"What happened after?" Annabeth asked Sam as Jacob and Embry were pulled aside by Jared. "No one truly knows. Everyone had their theories that the souls were split for generations, doomed to love the kinds assigned to them while others claimed that the souls would unite in one bringing back the powerful witch Della Freya, " Sam finished off leaving the blonde thinking deeply about the tale, the name sent bells through her mind and she truly believed something about her connected to this historic witch and it had scared the nomad woman; but something about their version of the story seemed so incredibly wrong.

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After she was cleared by Emily and the pack let her leave, Sam and Paul accompanied Annabeth back home ensuring she wouldn't speak up about their true identities however, they trusted her; Paul more than Sam. Annabeth noticed how Paul had been extra protective of her and he had been hesitant to walk away from her. But she finally headed into the house with the promise that she'd join the pack for lunch the next day. Charlie wasn't home as expected but what truly surprised Annabeth was that her sister was no longer sitting in front of the window.

"You're alive? And not a statue? I was fairly convinced you became a statue. Figured you had made eye contact with the beautiful Medusa or something," Annabeth teased getting a smile from Bella. "Yeah, I... I was hungry," Bella told Annabeth who laughed and stepped forward. "Well, let's see what's in the cupboards and I'll cook you something based on the ingredients you give me like when we were kids," Annabeth offered. The two sisters laughed and spoke like nothing in their lives had changed, it was a breath of fresh air for the both of them and they decided that they'd do it more often.

When Annabeth finally curled under her blankets later that night, she pulled her laptop onto her lap and opened her emails to see what school work she had only to see an email from someone she hadn't expected. She clicked on the email and smiled at the little message typed on the screen attached with a photo of Jasper, Alice, Colton and Esme. Her heart jumped in her chest as her gaze lingered on Jasper, the man she was missing with every piece of her and she knew that him leaving was a mistake, she shouldn't have let him go and now she was scared they wouldn't meet again in her lifetime; anything was possible.

Chapter Text

Anna shut off her bike, she looked up at the house surrounded by trees and let out a slow breath. Her mind was still reeling from the story she was told, she knew something was gonna change in her life considering everything she had faced already. Her eyes moved from the forest to the house as someone walked out, their own gaze looked up and locked on Anna before making their approach. "Paul, right?" Annabeth asked softly, he nodded his head as he stopped in front of her. "The others are inside but..." Paul trailed off as he looked from the motorbike to the forest, his eyes then landing on Anna again.

"Everything okay, Paul?" Anna asked him, she could see that there was something on his mind. "Yeah, I'm fine," Paul answered with a small smile before motioning toward the house. She sighed before following behind Paul into the house only for Jared to pull her into his arms, "If it isn't the fearless one." Anna rolled her eyes before pinching his side, Jared winced and moved away, poking his tongue out at her while Sam approached them. "We tried locating the nomad but she must've left the town," Sam told her as he led her towards the kitchen where Emily was currently cooking lunch.

"How's your head?" Emily asked her softly, Anna smiled before sitting on the stool. "Physically, it's fine, just a scratch. But mentally, it's always been concerning," Anna told her making Sam and Emily laugh. "We knew that you were dating a leech, after all," Jared spoke as he tried to sneak some food, Sam hitting his hand away with a glare. "Let's get this straight, Jasper isn't some leech. You guys have your natural instinct to hate them but I won't tolerate disrespect unless it is focused purely on Edweirdo and only him," Anna defended, the others raising their hands in surrender playfully.

"As long as we can talk bad about one, we'll be fine," Jared voiced making Anna shove him away, she rolled her eyes as he chuckled. "Ignore him," Emily suggested before placing a plate in front of Anna. "I'm sure I'll be able to," Anna replied causing Jared to hold his hand to his chest in faux offence. "So why did the leeches leave?" Jared asked as he leaned closer to Anna like he was about to hear the best gossip of the century. "Uh, it was Edward's call... there was an almost incident where Bella ended up hurt so he thought the whole family leaving would be the safest for her," Anna told him but it was clear she was angry about it.

"What incident?" Sam asked as he moved toward them, Emily listening as she finished making lunch. "Bella cut her finger opening an envelope, Edward being a total idiot pushed her away from Colton but instead of a tap, he practically tossed her into the opposing wall cutting her arm on a glass table," Anna answered, she sighed as the memory flashed through her mind. "Colton almost lost control, he was dragged out by the others but it only got worse when he remembered that Bella and I were attacked by the nomad, James," Anna continued, she was shocked when Paul stood up straighter. "You were what?" Paul asked, anger clear on his face.

"Paul, calm yourself," Sam warned but Paul's eyes were focused on the blonde watching him. "Jasper killed James. James was a tracker and I was his blood singer," Anna added knowing that Paul wanted the answers. Sam grabbed Paul and led him outside, Paul's breathing was heavy as a growl escaped his lips. Anna watched from beside Jared as Paul transformed into his wolf, the growl that left him was pure rage. "Anna move away!" Sam ordered but the blonde recklessly ignored Sam's warning and walked over to the large grey wolf that was staring at her. "It's okay," Anna whispered, Paul's ears twitching.

"I'm right here, Paul. Look at me, I'm here," Anna assured him as she gently placed her hand between his ears, Paul relaxed into her touch. "You should've told me I was your imprint," Anna told him with a small smile, Paul moved closer and let her run her fingers through his fur. "He wasn't sure how you'd react," Sam spoke for Paul, Anna looked to the Alpha with a subtle nod. "I'm not well versed with Imprints," Anna told Sam who smiled lightly. "Jared, go with Paul," Sam told Jared who sighed before walking towards Paul who whined lowly. "I'll be here when you get back," Anna promised the large wolf, he nuzzled against her hand before rushing off into the woods to cool off and shift back.

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Anna followed Sam into an office, he pulled out a chair for her before sitting in his own. "An Imprint is a connection between a wolf and someone whom they are destined to protect," Sam began as he relaxed in his seat, Anna listening intently to him. "Some develop romantic connections with their Imprints such as Emily and I while others maintain a strict sibling bond," Sam continued gazing at a photo of him and Emily. "It's not like love at first sight, really. It's more like, gravity moves, suddenly. It's not the earth holding you here anymore, she does. You become whatever she needs you to be, whether that's a protector, a lover, or a friend," Sam expressed in words that made sense.

"And it's involuntary, only known in this tribe specifically but rejecting an Imprint has never happened," Sam finished off as he watched Anna for a specific reaction; rejection. "I won't reject him, Sam. But... I am Jasper's mate, I know it in my heart and..." Anna trailed off when another voice spoke up, "Did he make you happy?" Anna turned her head to Paul who held no malice in his gaze, his eyes soft almost as though he was talking to his little sister. "Yes. He never hurt me once," Anna answered with the utmost truth. "I guess I finally got an older brother, huh?" Anna asked with a smile, Paul smiled back as Sam laughed. "At least we have someone who'll be able to calm him," Jared spoke up from behind Sam making them all laugh.

Anna spent the rest of the day with the pack, she told them about herself and they all gave her their stories of how they changed. And for the first time since Jasper left her behind in Forks for the sake of Edward's stupid orders, Anna felt happy and safe. Anna realised why she was okay with her mate leaving. She wasn't born to be co-dependent on her other half, she needed to learn how to live as herself. She loved Jasper, that she knew but now, she had to love herself and it would take time but she wasn't alone. She had the Pack, her sister, her dad and her friends so she'd get through it.

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My love,

A lot has happened since you left.
Bella's doing better, she's been spending time with Jacob building motorbikes. While I got thrown off of my own by a female Nomad, the pack came to my rescue.

Speaking of the pack, Paul Lahote imprinted on me and he's already playing the overprotective big brother. It's nice, new but nice. And the pack has been so kind, they've looked out for me since you left.

It's been hard, I will admit.
There are moments when I look over my shoulder hoping to see you smiling at me but you aren't there. At night, I feel so lonely without you next to me, holding me while telling me stories about your mother, sisters and the adventures you had been on with the Olympic Coven.

But I have to be strong.
Also, I learnt something about myself.
Della Freya. A powerful witch Goddess.
The pack are finding answers but they believe that Bella and I could be a descendant of her.
I've been thinking about reaching out to Grandma Rose, she may have the answers I seek.

Be warned, cowboy.
You might be mated to a witch.
Anyway, I miss you.
I love you. For eternity.

Annabeth x

Chapter Text

After spending a week with the pack, the elders hadn't found any answers about Della Freya and her connection to Annabeth Swan. And so, with a backpack resting on her back and a helmet on her head, Annabeth made her way out of Forks on her fixed motorbike. She had decided that the best choice would be to visit Charlie's mother, Rosemary Swan. Grandma Rose lived out in the woods where she could be close to nature, she had always been an eccentric person that not many people were willing to be around but she was a woman that Anna deeply admired despite the rare visits.

Rosemary Swan was a fierce woman who stood for women's rights and equal rights through the years of her life. During the sixties, she had been a strong leader who stood for the rights of everyone including other races and cultures. She was someone who the twins looked up to greatly however, she was never a fan of Renee and Charlie's relationship but supported it from a distance. She was, however, a unique woman with a different view of the world and what may be hidden in the shadows of life. Rosemary Swan had seen more in the world during her almost ninety years of life than the immortal vampires that the twins knew; not that they were aware of that themselves.

She had no idea what answers she would find but she hoped that Grandma Rose had the right ones. Her smile was infectious as the older woman stepped out of her cabin which was covered in moss, vines and boho decorations. "Now how on earth did you convince my son to let you ride that gorgeous bike?" Grandma Rose asked making Annabeth laugh as she removed her helmet. "Billy Black," Annabeth replied to the older woman who laughed. "Oh, little Billy always knew how to mess with Charles. Now come here, dear," Grandma Rose opened her arms for her granddaughter, and the blonde instantly accepted the embrace.

"Oh, my sweet little Annie... you've been through the wringer recently, huh? Vampire mate, shifter imprint and now..." Grandma Rose sighed as she pulled away, placing her hands on either side of Annabeth's confused face. "Don't you worry, Dear. You'll find what you need," Grandma Rose added before leading Anna into the house. The familiar smell of cookies, wool and sage hit Anna like a wave of calm that felt familiar yet distant. "I was worried when I first heard your mother gave birth to twins, it had skipped generations and yet, there you were alongside Isabella and I feared what that could mean," Grandma Rose began knowing why her granddaughter had come to visit.

"But when I saw you both had fallen in love with vampires, I knew that it couldn't be an accident," Grandma Rose smiled with a slight laugh as she sat down, Anna moving to sit on the couch. "And how was it that you knew?" Anna asked with a sly smirk on her face, her eyes widened as a familiar black cat strutted into the room and jumped up onto the arm of Grandma Rose's chair. "Because witches are well versed with knowledge and nature is always watching," Azazel ─ Grandma Rose's cat ─ spoke as he watched Annabeth. "Nature's always watching, huh?" Anna asked with a raised brow, her smile widened as Grandma Rose held her hand out causing a dead Jasmine to grow in the pot resting on the table.

"I am a Nature Witch. My power stems from the earth and I use it to protect it," Grandma Rose spoke as she ran her fingers through Azazel's fur. "And 'cause Familiars choose their witches, I had Azazel appear on my doorstep when I reached the age of maturity at eighteen," Grandma Rose continued before reaching for Anna's hand, the blonde accepting. "And you, my little Annie, have reached eighteen and I can feel the powers. Do you know the story of Della Freya?" Grandma Rose asked as she patted Anna's hand, letting go before standing up and approaching her bookshelves. "I know what Sam Uley told me based on the Tribes' stories," Anna answered her.

"Good. Those stories hold no lies," Azazel spoke sarcastically, Grandma Rose rolling her eyes at his words. "Which means you know the basic story about her lovers and connection to the Gods but you do not know her. The real her," Grandma Rose told her, she pulled out an old book that looked like a journal. "I want you to take this and read the whole diary, you'll find the questions you are searching for," Grandma Rose told her, handing the book to the blonde. "Then what?" Anna asked her grandmother. "And then return here and I may have the answers you seek," Grandma Rose told her, kissing the top of Anna's head before walking into another room. "Toodle-loo," Grandma Rose called out leaving Annabeth confused.

Anna said goodbye to Grandma Rose and Azazel before taking the diary and walking towards her motorbike, she stopped beside it and looked out to the forest around her. With a sigh, she tossed her backpack onto her grandmother's patio and trudged her way into the woods until she reached a tree that held a treehouse. Anna smiled to herself as she remembered the day her grandfather had built it for Anna and Bella to play in safely, the two would often spend nights in the treehouse telling stories of dragons and princes. But now, vines and moss had made the treehouse the perfect grounds for overgrowth making it look more magical.

Anna climbed steadily into the treehouse, she was careful with her steps before pushing herself to sit in the corner of the space. She closed her eyes and let out a breath of content before looking down at the diary in her hands. She wasn't sure what she was about to read but she was certain that Della Freya's story was about to change everything in her life. Carlisle had told Anna about the plethora of supernatural beings out in the world, that Vampires and Shifters were barely anything compared to what lurked in the shadows; so Anna wasn't sure what she was expecting from this diary and Della Freya's story, she just hoped it was nothing bad and something useful.

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"SHE DIED TO A VAMPIRE THAT WANTED TO USE HER POWER FOR HIS OWN NEEDS?!" Anna shrieked as she stormed into the cabin, Grandma Rose simply smiled before placing a cup of tea on the table and tapping the couch for her to sit. "That's the part of the story that no one knows about," Grandma Rose said as Anna sipped the tea, she looked up into her reflection to see that her eyes were no longer blue but grey. "Her real name was Magnolia Clave and she was not just some Goddess, she was chosen by the Gods after her family threw her out due to her giving birth to a child out of wedlock," Grandma Rose sighed as she spoke.

"But why?" Anna asked, she placed the teacup down and leaned back into the couch. "When the Gods bestowed Magnolia with power, she wanted to be known as someone else and so they gave her the name Della Freya to wipe her connection to the Clave family so they would never know power," Grandma Rose raised her hand and the journal lifted from the table, floating above it as it spun gently. "And the vampire she fell in love with?" Anna asked with saddened eyes, the grey being overlapped by her natural ocean blue . "He did love her but he loved his place of power more, his name was Caius and he's a part of the Volturi," Grandma Rose told her filling the empty pages that the Journal withheld.

"Caius was chosen by Aro due to his eagerness to hate, his hatred of shifters and the fact that the old vampire had managed to capture the heart of a powerful witch however, Caius found real love in another," Azazel explained, the cat had been a witness to all of it in his time alongside the witches of that era. "When Della Freya learned of Caius' deceit after she had split her soul, she became enraged with him for quite literally tearing her in two when she could've been one and with a soul who truly loved her," Grandma Rose continued with a stoic expression. "The shifter didn't imprint on the half she hoped he would, but on her, the version that was destined for the alleged mate, right?" Anna asked with a sad tone.

"Yes. You must understand, Annie. Magnolia realised that Caius wanted her for power while the shifter, Mikael wanted her for love," Grandma Rose spoke softly as she stared off into space. "When Magnolia came to terms with that, she bound her souls into one again before locking her powers away. Mikael and Caius became her past, they were no longer in her life and she ran away," Grandma Rose continued before grabbing Anna's hand. "Years later, Aro found Magnolia hidden away on a farm and when she refused to give him power; he killed her. And from that day, Della Freya became a story for witches, a warning to love a man, not a beast," Grandma Rose finished off.

"But I don't care about that, it's all history at the end of the day. What I care about is you, my little Annie, and your sister. This path you two have chosen will lead to something life-changing and so you must be prepared," Grandma Rose warned as she ran her fingers through Anna's hair. "I am prepared, Gran. I want to learn everything about these abilities, the full story about Della Freya and do what I can to protect those I love," Anna told her. Grandma Rose nodded before standing up from the chair, "Then let's get you started then, Annie. It's gonna be a lot of work." Anna nodded before following behind her Grandmother, she was preparing herself.

Chapter Text

Paul and Anna were sitting on the beach in La Push, the pack was a short distance away. Anna had told Sam and Paul the full story about Della Freya which had altered some of their beliefs and affected Paul's hatred for Vampires. It was a concern to all about what would happen if Aro learnt about Anna's connection to the woman he had killed. Anna knew that Aro was always looking for power, she had been told about the Volturi by Jasper; the empathic vampire had been worried about them finding out about Anna's strength and skills that would make her the perfect newborn and now, Anna knew why she was that way.

Anna sighed as she watched Jared shove Embry away from the soccer ball before kicking it to Sam. "Bella tells me that Jacob isn't too happy about Embry joining the cult, " Anna told Paul as he watched the pack. "Jacob doesn't believe the stories, the hints or the fact that his time is coming soon. But when that moment comes, his feelings for Bella will backfire on him," Paul replied to her, a slight warning in his tone. "Right, the whole natural enemies with the vampires," Anna teased knowing that Paul was still rocky about the idea of Anna and Jasper, he was glad they left but even he saw how Anna's eyes didn't light up in happiness; no matter how much she puts it on, she won't be happy till Jasper's with her again.

"Jacob is sixteen, Bella is eighteen... Jacob is just gonna have to move on and get the hell over it," Anna said making Paul laugh, the two had agreed that Bella was using Jacob to distract herself and fill the obsessive void that was Edward leaving her behind. Anna loved her sister, there was no mistaking that and she would die to protect her; that was her promise. But to see Bella act like her life wasn't worth living because Edward left her; it didn't feel like they were fated mates, it seemed more like an obsession. Anna felt a dull ache in her chest every day but she could live with it based on the promise that one day, she would reunite with Jasper. And with Paul by her side as a brother, she knew she wasn't alone.

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"What were you thinking?!" Anna asked her older sister as she cleaned up the blood on her forehead. Anna had gotten a call from Jacob telling her that Bella had a motorbike incident and the blonde was fuming; she sent Jacob home and was done being gentle. "I saw him, Anna..." Bella whispered. "No," Anna shook her head as Bella tried to convince her. "Bella!" Anna shouted successfully shutting the brunette up. "You didn't see Edward, you saw a hallucination due to this obsession you have developed and it's unhealthy. He isn't there, it's not real! It's your mind playing games to trick you, you need to move on!" Anna was panting by the time she was done talking.

Bella looked up at her younger sister with watery eyes, the brunette scoffed as she pushed past Anna towards the stairs. "You don't know anything, Annabeth. If it wasn't for Jasper, they'd still be here!" Bella shouted back at Annabeth whose eyes flickered from blue to grey. "How dare you?!" Anna snapped, cracks forming in the walls. "Jasper did nothing wrong! It was Edward who threw you across the room like a damn football when he could've just stopped Colton who went to attack!" Anna continued without realising that the house was shaking slightly. "If it wasn't for your obsession with not growing old and not having Edward by your side, I would have MY MATE by my side," Anna seethed out harshly.

Anna noticed the damage she was causing and took in a deep breath, the shaking slowed to a stop and the cracks within the walls sealed over like nothing had happened. "We aren't kids anymore, Isabella. It's time to move on," Anna told her softly before walking out of the house, she climbed onto her motorbike and took off down the road with no place in mind. Bella dropped onto her bed, her mind reeling at the memory of what had just happened. Deep down, a part of her knew that Annabeth was right but to acknowledge that truth would be to let go of something that made her feel alive.

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Pain. That's what surrounded Annabeth as she tried to move away, she could barely feel the injury on her side as she dragged herself backwards. Her eyes trailed up to the woman standing before her, the sly smirk on her face made anger fill her body. "You thought I'd let you live after your precious mate killed my mate?" Victoria asked but before she could move forward, Anna focused and threw the woman back into a tree. "Did no one warn you, don't mess with a witch," Anna warned as she stood up, her blue eyes turning grey as she moved to dodge Victoria's next attempt to hit her. The pain was becoming too much for Anna as she tried to stand steadily, but she was still human.

Annabeth dropped to the ground, she was leaning up against a tree and her breathing slowed heavily, she looked up at Victoria who was prowling toward her. "I look forward to seeing their reaction to your death," Victoria told her but before she could do anything further, a red-ish brown wolf jumped at her followed by a black wolf. Anna knew the pack had shown up in time, she turned to see Paul jump over the fallen tree and pick her up in his arms. "I've got you, Anna," Paul promised as Anna fought to keep her eyes open, she couldn't believe she had been so naïve to think that Victoria wouldn't fight back; that she wouldn't return for revenge.

Paul was beyond angered when Sam informed him through the pack link that the woman had gotten away, he wanted to tear her apart but knew he couldn't. He hated seeing Anna so pale, she didn't deserve this and yet, it seemed as though life wanted her to have it tough. He made it to Sam's house and headed straight inside where Emily stood instantly. "Lay her down," Emily ordered before grabbing what she needed to fix her up. "Shouldn't you take her to a hospital?" Quil asked with wide eyes as he and Embry walked closer. "Too many questions and due to her connection to Della Freya, we don't know what abilities will show," Jared told them as he and Paul helped Emily.

"How bad is it?" Sam asked his Imprint when he walked in, Emily frowned as she cleaned the blood, their eyes focused on the wound that seemed to have been caused by a large branch. "Wait, it's healing," Embry said as he looked closer, they all noticed that the wound was indeed closing which eased them. "She needs to rest," Emily told them, Sam nodded. "I can tell Charlie that she's staying with me and Dad for the night," Jacob told them as he turned his gaze from the blonde to Sam and Paul. "That'll work," Sam replied with a nod, Jacob made his way out with Embry and Quil following him. Paul took Emily's place next to Anna and brushed her hair out of her face.

"She's gonna be just fine," Emily assured Paul before she made her way out of the space, deciding she would grab some new clothes for Anna when she woke up. "Who was she?" Sam questioned Paul knowing that Annabeth had been opening up about herself. "If I know the story correctly, I think it was Victoria, the tracker's mate," Paul answered, his eyes locked on his Imprint to keep himself calm. "Which means she won't give up until Anna is dead," Sam breathed out, their utmost important law is that Imprints are to be protected. "We won't let that happen," Jared said as he placed his hand on Paul's shoulder. "She may be your Imprint sister, but she's our family too," Jared added.

Chapter Text

"So you know about the pack?" Anna asked as she leaned against Bella's door, her arms crossed as she watched the brunette staring at her laptop screen. "How long have you known?" Bella asked without looking at her sister, the tension between them was still strong from their fight. "Since a nomad threw me off of my bike a few months ago," Anna told her gaining her attention, Bella's eyes were wide as she looked at her younger sister. "And then I was attacked by Victoria who Jacob tells me is in town to kill me and anyone who tries to protect me," Anna said in reference to Bella's conversation with Laurent.

"Bella, you need to be more careful now. Victoria has her mind set and you--" Bella cut off Anna, "--I'm sorry." Anna smiled softly at Bella before sighing. "You'll have to give me time to forgive you, Bella. I just..." Anna huffed before moving to sit with her older twin sister. "I'm hurting too, Bella. You weren't the only person who had someone you love walk away from you so it just... got too much and I snapped," Anna expressed to Bella who nodded along. "I know. And I'm sorry, Anna," Bella told her before the two hugged. Anna had a bad feeling in her stomach, but she pushed it aside and smiled at her sister.

Anna had left Bella to herself, she had made plans to hang out with Tyler that day as they had been slightly distant due to the stress of their final year in high school. While Bella rarely made time to hang out with Angela or Jessica, Anna often spent weekends hanging out with them watching new movies, having coffee and study dates or even shopping trips despite Anna not being a huge shopping fan -- It gave her the perfect opportunity to buy new books though. She had also made time to hang out with Eric and Mike, though the blond male had attempted to flirt with Anna a couple of times even though she shut him down each time. Her friends were a huge part of her taking the distance between her and Jasper day by day.

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Anna pulled on her jacket and made her way downstairs when she realized that there was someone in the house, she took a breath and walked forward only to be stopped by a familiar face. "Alice?" Anna whispered. The pixie vampire smiled up at Anna before the two hugged, Alice's grip tightened on Anna. "I thought you..." Alice trailed off before pulling away, "Last I saw, you were attacked on your bike and then--" Anna sighed, "I've been hanging around the Pack, Alice. They've been looking out for me." Alice nodded knowing that she couldn't see shifters in her visions which would explain why she hadn't seen much of Anna.

"Not that I'm not happy to see you but why are you here, Alice?" Anna asked the pixie woman who looked down. "It's Bella... I saw her jump off of a cliff and I--" Alice stopped herself as she looked up at Anna who was shaking her head. "Bella's fine, Alice," Anna assured her, and right on cue, the two heard the door open to reveal Bella herself. "Alice?!" Bella shouted softly before wrapping her arms around her. "Bella?" Alice breathed out, her vision still messing with her head despite Anna's words and Bella standing in front of her. "Sorry, I just can't believe you're here," Bella told Alice once she pulled back from the hug.

"Would you like to explain to me how you're alive?" Alice asked with genuine concern. "What?" Bella asked her in confusion. "I saw a vision of you. You jumped off of a cliff!" Alice told her causing Bella to look at Anna who was looking back at her with a blank expression. "Why in the hell would you try and kill yourself? What about Charlie? And Anna?" Alice asked her with an upset tone. "I didn't try to kill myself," Bella defended as a tear fell from her eye. "I was cliff jumping, recreationally. It was fun," Bella said with a sniffle while Anna shook her head. "It was stupid," Anna told her before walking into the kitchen to make a cup of tea.

Alice and Bella sat in the living room, Anna bought in a cup of tea for Bella to help her warm up and sat down on Charlie's armchair with her own mug. "I have never met anyone more prone to life-threatening idiocy," Alice told Bella while Anna agreed with her. "Does--Did you tell him?" Bella asked Alice who shook her head. "No. He only calls in once every few months. He said he wants to be alone," Alice told Bella while Anna rolled her eyes, she hoped he was miserable. "And is?" Anna interrupted, her eyes telling Alice what she needed to know. "Jasper's... getting by. He's doing okay now," Alice told Anna softly, Anna's heart broke at the knowledge that he wasn't okay before.

"Girls, what is that God-awful wet dog smell?" Alice asked as she scrunched up her nose causing Anna to shrug. "Um... That's probably me. Or it's Jacob," Bella answered causing Anna to sit up straight, at least she knew who to thank for saving Bella though she should've expected that considering that Jacob was clearly in love with Bella. "Jacob who?" Alice asked as she looked from Bella to Anna who had sighed. "Jacob's kind of a werewolf," Bella answered causing Alice to sigh at both girls due to their recent company. "Girls! Werewolves are not good company to keep," Alice told them with a distrustful expression.

"Speak for yourself," Jacob's voice caught their attention, Anna leaned back in her seat ready to watch the scene play out; she was just missing popcorn. "I had to see you were safe," Jacob said directly to Bella. "I thought you couldn't protect me here," Bella asked him rhetorically. "Guess I don't care," Jacob replied while noticing Anna's bored expression. "Well, I'm not gonna hurt her or Anna," Alice told Jacob like the idea of hurting either girl was worse than a sin. "No, you're just a harmless Cullen. I'm talking about the other bloodsucker who tried to kill Anna and Bella because of you," Jacob sneered at her. "Victoria?" Alice asked.

"Yeah, Victoria's been around," Bella said while Anna scoffed, "She had a great time with me." Jacob raised his brow at the blonde but she just winked at him to play off the fact that if the pack hadn't shown up, Anna would be dead and Bella hadn't even acknowledged that in her broken state. "I didn't see her," Alice told them as she looked at Anna with worry before looking back at Bella, "I didn't see you get pulled out of the water, either." Alice stood up and looked at Jacob, "I can't see past you and your pack of mutts." Jacob glared at Alice, "Don't get me upset... Or things are gonna get very ugly."

Bella tried to get between them without success, Anna simply waved her hand, and the two were dragged away from each other. "Enough with the natural enemies crap," Anna told them as she stood up, Alice looking at her with shock having no knowledge of Anna being a witch. "I'll give you a minute," Alice told Bella. "Hey, you're not going anywhere. You're gonna come back, right?" Bella asked Alice. "As soon as you put the dog out," Alice said before grabbing Anna's hand and dragging her outside, the blonde laughing at Alice's choice of words. "You wanna tell me what that was about?" Alice asked Anna before looking her over almost like she was searching for an injury.

"Hey," Anna grabbed Alice's hands and stopped her, "I'm okay, Alice. I promise." Alice nodded and Anna let go of her hands. "Do you know the story of Della Freya?" Anna asked Alice, the pixie woman's eyes widened. "Of course I do. Carlisle has told us all about her considering her connection to the Volturi," Alice answered her before gasping, "You're her chosen descendant?" Anna nodded at Alice's question before sighing, "Yeah, it seems that I'm a witch and I've been learning how to control the limited abilities that I have." Alice let out an unnecessary breath as she took in the information.

"Alice, how has Jasper been? Really?" Anna asked in a soft, vulnerable tone. "It was rough for him in the beginning, he almost killed Edward before he left but Carlisle and Esme have been helping him get by," Alice answered her truthfully. Alice knew that Jasper wouldn't want Anna to know that he believed that the pain he was going through was deserved due to his past that he wasn't honest about. "He holds on to the promise you two made," Alice added noticing Anna's expression, pain and sadness. "I hold on to it as well," Anna told her with a sniffle. "And there's something else, Alice. Something important--" Anna was cut off as Alice's eyes became unfocused, a vision plaguing her mind.

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Months before the Cullens left...

"Name one place in the world that you'd wish to visit?" Anna asked Jasper as she leaned against his chest, the two were sitting on the roof of the Cullen home. "I've seen a lot of the world but... I haven't seen Greece," Jasper replied to her making Anna light up and turn her head to look up at him. "Greece is the place that you and I will be visiting after graduation at some point," Anna told Jasper with no room for argument, not that he would. "My turn to ask a question..." Jasper trailed off as he thought about a question he had yet to ask his beloved. "If you could have any pet in the world, what would it be?" Jasper asked making Anna grin at him. "I'm concerned that any pet I had would become a snack," Anna teased making Jasper roll his eyes with a scoff, Anna giggling to herself. "Any pet?... I would have to choose between a... sloth or a ferret," Anna answered him.

"Specifically a white Ferret that I would name Draco or a cute sloth that I would name Flash," Anna further explained making Jasper laugh, he absolutely loved Anna's mind. "You're adorable," Jasper cooed as he leaned in to kiss her, she hummed at the action and moved slightly with the intent to deepen the kiss. "What pet would you want?" Anna asked, her lips brushing against his. "I'd want a simple dog, maybe two. A Golden Retriever that I'd name Eloise or Apollo and possibly a Dachshund that I'd name Rosita or Hermes," Jasper answered her bringing a wide smile to her face. "You've really thought about that, haven't you?" Anna questioned him. "Well, when you have prepared answers, I figured it'd be best to have some of my own prepared too," Jasper teased her.

"Maybe once we've got a home of our own, somewhere stable and steady for us... we could make that happen," Anna told Jasper who beamed happily at the thought, he loved it when Anna spoke of their future because it reminded him that this wasn't temporary. If their future was worth planning for then it was worth fighting for. Jasper turned Anna around in his arms and moved her to straddle his waist, he cupped her face and slammed his lips onto hers. He would never tire of kissing her even though he had to remind himself that she needed oxygen; one day she wouldn't and he'd never grow tired of her soft lips against his own.

Chapter Text

Anna jumped out of Alice's car once they reached the airport, she grabbed Bella's hand and followed Alice towards the desk. After Jacob tried to convince the twins to stay, they knew better than that, they had left with Alice to save Edward from killing himself. Anna knew she needed to be there should the Volturi try something with Bella and potentially beat the crap out of Edward for being so damn stupid. Anna could feel Bella's nerves, she knew that Bella would never be the same if Edward died believing she was gone and so she had to push away her own feelings and help her older sister.

"I'm guessing you didn't rent this car?" Bella asked Alice as a distraction. "We figured you wouldn't be opposed to grand theft auto," Alice spoke on behalf of herself and Anna. "Not today," Bella muttered while Alice became dazed. "What? What do you see?" Bella asked her while Anna leaned forward. "They refused him," Alice answered her. "So?" Anna asked Alice knowing that Edward wouldn't stop there. "He's gonna make a scene. Show himself to the humans," Alice answered Bella who immediately felt panicked. "No! When?" Bella asked her, biting down on her lip.

"He's gonna wait until noon when the sun's at its highest," Alice answered causing Anna to sigh. "Dramatic vampires..." Anna muttered to herself while Bella anxiously ran her fingers through her hair. "God, Alice, you got to hurry up," Bella told their driver. "Geez Bella, any faster and you and I would be dead in the crash," Anna said before looking at the window, in any other situation, she would be excited about being in Italy. "There's Volterra," Alice told them, Bella and Anna looked out to the crowds of people dressed in red making Anna roll her eyes.

"Why are they all wearing red?" Bella asked Alice as she looked around at everyone. "San Marco's Day festival. They're commemorating the expulsion of vampires from the city," Alice answered her. "Irony..." Anna whispered as she brushed her fingers through her hair. "It's the perfect setting. The Volturi will never let him get far enough to reveal himself," Alice continued only making Bella panic more than before. "We have five minutes," Bella warned her as Alice continued honking to get everyone out of the way. "Alice!" Bella called as the car came to a stop with no more road to follow.

"Bella, you're the only one he can't see coming. If Anna or I go, he'll read our thoughts. He'll think we're lying, he'll rush into it," Alice told her truthfully. "Where do I go?" Bella asked her in a rushed tone. "He'll be under the clock tower. Go!" Alice told her, the brunette Swan slammed the door shut and ran off into the crowd. Anna moved into the front seat and let out a slow breath before looking at Alice, "What do we do?" Alice backed the car up and turned down another road, "We find another way." Anna nodded before leaning back in her seat, her leg was bouncing anxiously hoping that Bella made it.

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Anna followed Alice as they stepped into the building interrupting the group within the doors. "Come on, guys. It's a festival, you wouldn't want to make a scene," Alice told them but the shorter male's eyes were locked on Anna. "We wouldn't," The taller one spoke. "Enough," A woman spoke as she walked around the corner, removing her hood to reveal blonde hair and blood-red eyes. "Jane," Edward greeted while Anna stood with Alice, who gave Anna a look of worry before focusing ahead. "Aro sent me to see what was taking so long," Jane spoke with a tone of authority.

"Just do as she says," Alice warned the twins. Edward however, had heard Anna's thoughts and knew he was in trouble with her but he'd face that later. Anna stayed by Alice's side as they made their way down some stairs, Alice knew that the two vampires following behind them were watching her with interest while Jane glanced back slightly. They all stepped into an elevator and stood in silence making Anna clear her throat, "Is it always this dreary around her or do you all know how to smile?" Edward glared at Anna while Jane smiled amused. "Not afraid, I see," Jane spoke up. "Of you? Not really," Anna replied without hesitation.

"Though I will admit, you are quite beautiful," Anna added before looking back at the tall vampire with a raised brow, "You, not so much." Bella nudged her twin and shook her head making Anna roll her eyes while the Volturi members remained amused by her. Once they stepped out of the elevator they were greeted by a woman behind a desk, Anna looked at Alice with an expression of pity as she listened to Bella and Edward. "Is she human?" Bella asked Edward. "Yes," Edward replied simply. "Does she know?" Bella asked next making Anna roll her eyes, her sister could be extremely daft at times.

"Yes," Edward answered her as they continued down the corridor. "Then, why would... She wants to be," Bella said putting the pieces together. "And so she will be," The shorter one, Demetri spoke up. "Or dessert," Jane said before opening large doors to reveal a throne room. "Sister, they send you out to get one and you bring back two," Alec spoke with pride before looking at Bella and Anna, "And two halves. Such a clever girl." Anna crossed her arms as she stood with her sister, Alice moving to stand ahead of them. "What a happy surprise!" Aro spoke as she stood up from his throne.

"Bella is alive after all. Isn't that wonderful?" Aro asked as he clasped his hands together as he approached the couple, his eyes moved from Edward and Bella to Anna with intrigue. "I love a happy ending," Aro said before grasping Edward's hand in his own, "They are so rare." Anna looked around at the members of the Volturi until her eyes locked with Caius', he seemed to be analysing her but she simply looked away as though he was dirt under her shoe. "Her blood appeals to you so much. It makes me thirsty. How can you stand to be so close to her?" Aro asked Edward while Anna pulled Bella closer to her.

"It's not without difficulty," Edward answered him. "Yes, I can see that," Aro said before chuckling. "Aro can read every thought I've ever had with one touch," Edward told Bella and Anna before looking back at Aro, "And now you know everything. So get on with it." Aro smiled at the comment, amused by Edward's attitude. "You are quite a soul reader yourself, Edward. Though you can't read Bella's thoughts, even troubled with young Anna's too. Fascinating," Aro spoke up before looking towards the twins, "I would love to see if you are an exception to my gifts, as well." Aro stepped back from Edward and held out his hand, "Would you do me the honour?"

Bella moved forward and put her hand in Aro's, the man closed his eyes for a moment. "Interesting. I see nothing," Aro spoke before smirking to himself, "I wonder if... Let us see if she's immune to all our powers. Shall we, Jane?" Edward immediately shouted in refusal before moving in front of Bella, Jane activated her powers sending a wave of pain over Edward. Alice pulled Anna back as Bella begged them to stop, Aro calling Jane off before Bella stepped forward to allow the experiment. "This may hurt just a little," Jane teased before focusing on Bella only to receive no response. "Remarkable," Aro gleefully spoke after laughing.

"She confounds us all. So what do we do with you now?" Aro asked rhetorically. "You already know what you're going to do, Aro," Marcus spoke from his throne. "She knows too much. She's a liability," Caius spoke up next gaining Anna's full attention again. "That's true. Felix?" Aro moved towards his chair but before Felix could do anything, the entire room began to shake startling them all. Anna moved forward with her blue eyes now overlapped by grey as she clenched her fists tight, "You forgot to ask about me. The Della Freya witch."

Aro's eyes widened as he looked at Annabeth, Caius stood from his throne as Anna raised a brow at the Volturi guard that threatened to move forward. "You touch a hair on my sister's head or the Cullens, I will bring this building down," Anna warned them, her gaze focused on Aro. "Wait!" Alice called as she moved forward, she placed her hand on Anna's arm, calming the girl enough to at least talk to the Volturi. "Bella will be one of us. I've seen it myself," Alice told Aro who took her hand seeing the image himself. "Mesmerizing. To see what you have seen before it has happened," Aro complimented while Caius kept his eyes on Anna.

"Your gifts will make for an intriguing immortal, Isabella. Go now, make your preparations," Aro encouraged, he glanced at Anna who stepped closer to Bella. "Do be careful, Annabeth. Power such as that can be... dangerous," Aro spoke with a little wave. "Let us be done with this," Marcus snapped out, "Heidi will arrive any moment." Aro grinned like a child on Christmas, "Thank you for your visit." Caius sat back in his seat, "We will return the favour. I would advise that you follow through on your promise soon. We do not offer second chances." Anna took one last glance at Caius before stepping out of the room. "Goodbye, my young friends," Aro said just before they left, his mind focused on Anna.

Chapter Text

Anna needed to take a break from Edward and Alice's argument as Bella slept, they were getting on a plane in only a few hours to return to Forks where Charlie was definitely fuming at their sudden disappearance after what happened last time. However, it didn't take Anna long to realize that she was no longer alone in the alleyway. "Lurking in the shadows is a very creepy thing to do, Caius," Anna spoke before turning in time to be shoved against the wall by the mentioned blonde. "How did you know?" Caius asked as she looked into Anna's blue eyes.

"I've gotten good with my abilities and I assumed if anyone wanted to approach me, it would be the one that fooled my ancestor for power when she loved him, even as a monster," Anna sneered at him before using her mind to throw him off of her. "You think I didn't love her?" Caius asked with an angered expression. "It certainly seems to me like you didn't," Anna snapped back at him, her eyes changing to the grey colour that represented her power. "I loved Magnolia, Annabeth. But I was... different then," Caius told her before looking down.

"Magnolia Clave was the first person I met that didn't see me as a monster no matter how many bodies lay behind me, she fought for me and reminded me what it was like to be alive," Caius told Anna truthfully. "Then why did you betray her? Hurt her?" Anna asked him, Caius looked up at Anna. "Because I was angry. She chose Mikael. She may not have been my mate but..." Caius trailed off as he leaned back against the wall, Anna sighed. "If I could go back and change anything, I would have never hurt her," Caius continued.

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Magnolia balanced the books behind her, she was humming a tune as she focused her power to telekinetically sweep the floors and clean the windows. Her focus broke when someone placed their hands on her waist, "My dear, what are you doing?" Magnolia looked back at Caius and smiled fondly. "I am simply practising, sweet Caius. Aro says that it is important that I keep my magic sharp and at the ready," Magnolia told him before turning around to place her hands on his chest. "And to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?" Magnolia asked him.

"I wanted to see my best girl, is there a problem with that?" Caius asked before he leaned in a captured Magnolia's lips with his own. When they pulled apart, Magnolia smiled brightly up at him before waving her hand making the books return to the shelves. "Now, I hope you aren't too busy because I was thinking that maybe you and I could take a small trip," Magnolia suggested, Caius nodding happily before the two spent some time talking about their days. It was mundane but it gave Caius a sense of humanity, something he had lost long ago.

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"So the two of you were happy? How did that change?" Anna asked as she and Caius walked through the deserted streets. "On our trip..." Caius spoke as he stopped and looked up at the moon in the sky. "The stories state that she split her soul into two, allowing one half for the vampire and the other for the shifter, right?" Caius asked Anna who nodded in confusion. "That's the stories that spread, the ones written by Magnolia's twin sister, Nadia who envied her sister and her power," Caius told Anna who sighed, the missing parts of the journal made sense.

"Magnolia didn't split her soul in half, she split her power and gave some of it to her sister to smooth the tides between them," Caius said with an amused smile. "Bella's gift?" Anna asked causing Caius to nod. "Aro recognized instantly that Bella had been bestowed Nadia's gift, invincibility to the power of others which meant that you were the reincarnation of Magnolia and it greatly interested him," Caius warned Anna, she knew what he was saying. "So if those stories were Nadia's, what was Magnolia's truth?" Anna asked the one who knew the real story, the only being that had been present.

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"Caius?" Magnolia spoke as she walked into the room, her eyes were puffy and red from tears as she looked into the eyes of the man she loved. "Did he imprint on you?" Caius asked, his eyes angered and focused as he held back his anger. "I'm sorry, Caius..." Magnolia told him, she stepped toward him but Caius moved back from her. "You'd do this to me, Magnolia? You'd make me fall in love with you only to lose you to a mutt," Caius asked her with a sneer. "I do not control the works of nature, Caius. Mikael was made for me but I am not your mate," Magnolia told him as tears flowed down her face.

"She is out there, Caius. And I know when she comes into your life, you'll leave me and I am okay with that," Magnolia told him as she stepped forward again and placed her hands on either side of his face. "I love you, Caius. You taught me to love, to heal, and to grow but our time has come to an end and I know she is coming, Caius. I've seen it," Caius stopped fighting her hold hearing those words. "What? When?" Caius asked her. "A few months ago... I saw her and she's beautiful, Caius. But she is not me," Magnolia told him, she rested her forehead against his. "One last kiss..." Caius asked softly, Magnolia accepted.

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Caius sat down on the bench, Anna moved to sit next to him like he wasn't some dangerous vampire that could kill her in the blink of an eye. "So it wasn't some vicious story about deceit and heartbreak?" Anna asked amused. "No, it was not," Caius answered before looking back at Anna, "Magnolia introduced me to Athenodora." Anna smiled at that, she could see the genuine love in Caius' eyes as he thought of his mate. "So why did Aro kill Magnolia?" Anna asked, she noticed how Caius tensed at the question before looking back at the sky.

"Magnolia's decision to be with Mikael split her off from the world of Vampires and in reality, it tore her away from the Volturi. She was a powerful witch gifted by the Gods and she helped keep the threats in check until she left to be with Mikael," Caius answered her. "Aro considered her a threat because she didn't stand with him anymore?" Anna asked with disbelief. "If Aro feels even the slightest bit threatened, then he will do whatever it takes to remove that threat. He will not lose his power or his throne," Caius told Anna, the blonde picked up on an underlying warning; Aro wouldn't hesitate to stop Anna too if she threatened his throne.

"You must be careful, Annabeth. Aro does not take things lightly, especially your actions from today," Caius warned her as he stood from the bench. "Why warn me?" Anna asked Caius who turned to her. "Is it true that you are mated to Jasper Whitlock, the Major?" Caius asked Anna who smiled slightly at the mention of her beloved. "Yes, I am. But I was imprinted on by a shifter too. He sees and treats me as though I was his little sister," Anna told Caius truthfully. "It seems your situation was kinder than that of mine and Magnolia's," Caius spoke softly. "You didn't answer my question?" Anna said as Caius moved to walk away.

"Why warn me about Aro? I doubt you and I will ever be considered friends," Anna spoke as she stood from the bench. Caius was silent for a moment but Anna let him collect his thoughts, she was still processing the true story of Magnolia Clave. "Because if I could've warned Magnolia, saving her life, then I would have," Caius answered as he turned to look at Anna, "I may have been mated to Athenodora, and Magnolia with Mikael, but... she was still my first love. I still loved her and I just hope she didn't suffer." Anna smiled and nodded. "Stay safe, Annabeth," Caius disappeared into the shadows leaving Anna alone.

Chapter Text

Anna sighed as she walked into the house, Charlie stood from the chair and approached his daughters with a blank expression. "Dad--" Bella was cut off by Charlie hugging them before pulling back, his hands resting on their shoulders. "You two are grounded till you are well into your eighties, you hear me?" Charlie told them both, the sorrow in his eyes made Anna feel terrible. "Yeah, we hear you," Anna breathed out before hugging her father again, she rested her head against his chest for a much-needed fatherly hug. Bella stepped back letting her younger sister have the comfort she needed.

"Are you okay?" Charlie asked Anna who sighed as she relaxed completely. "Yeah, it's just been so stressful and I just... needed a hug from my dad," Anna answered him making Charlie sigh before he ran his fingers through her hair. Anna and Charlie had always had a closer bond while Bella and Renée were closer; and with everything that had been happening and with what was to come, Anna realised how short her time with her father would truly become. Anna and Charlie worked together to cook dinner and the Swans' sat together in the living room watching Full House in comfortable silence.

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"Goodnight, Dad," Anna spoke before closing her door, leaning her head against it with a slow sigh. She stood up straight and removed her clothes to change into her pyjamas when her eyes locked onto the recent wounds. Her wrist had small incision scars from the metal stints that were put in, the long scar down her forearm from when she cut herself with glass to distract James was now a faint line. James' bite was still visible on her shoulder but the injury above her abdomen from Victoria was faint but still visible as she gently dragged her fingertips over the wounds. Insecure thoughts flooded her mind as she looked at her body in the mirror, her eyes becoming glossy.

"Absolutely breathtaking," A familiar Southern drawl pulled Anna's attention from her reflection to the man standing by her window, her breath hitching. "Every part of you is angelic, Annabeth," Jasper continued as he took slow steps towards Anna whose heart picked up at the sight of her beloved. "And each scar tells a story," Jasper placed one hand on the side of Anna's face while the other rested on her hip as he pulled her in. Familiar sparks and tingles soared through Anna's body at the light touches, sending her heart into overdrive as she placed her hands on Jasper's chest. "You're a survivor, Anna," Jasper whispered.

"I missed you, Jasper," Anna whispered, resting her forehead against his as she closed her eyes. "I will never leave you again, Anna. I will keep that promise for eternity," Jasper whispered back to her as he let her aura and smell of Jasmines and Vanilla surround him completely. "I knew a life without you, and then you came into my world and I saw a purpose, then I lost you but I won't let that happen again because life isn't worth living if I'm not with you," Jasper continued as Anna sniffled, her heart felt full for the first time since before Jasper left Forks with his family under Edwards orders.

Anna wrapped her arms around Jasper, she rested her head against his chest and closed her eyes. Jasper rested his head on top of Anna's, his eyes closing as they swayed slightly just enjoying each other's presence. Jasper loathed being away from Anna, he had almost come running back twice just to be with her again. He remembered the conversation he had with Carlisle about the genuine pain he felt being so far away from Anna, how every emotion around him felt suffocating without her nearby, and how he had never had to fight so hard to not feed on a person before. Carlisle had told him that's what it was like for Mates who were torn apart or distant; it made Jasper realise that Edward was selfish.

Selfish to tear him and Anna apart because he couldn't protect the human he fell in love with, selfish to think that he could be the leader of the family when he couldn't protect them. Carlisle needed to take charge and Jasper wasn't going to follow Edward's orders just because they were what was best for him and Bella. He spent his life following the orders of a person claiming it was for the best but it wasn't and now he had someone more important to protect, love and respect. Jasper knew in that moment as he held the woman he loved in his arms, she was the one he would move heaven and earth for; he wouldn't leave her again.

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"It was a vote?" Anna asked Jasper as the two walked through the forest, it was something the both of them enjoyed and something about the woods was peaceful and soothing. "Yeah, Rosalie wasn't on board but everyone else agreed much to Edward's distaste," Jasper told her as he held out his hand to help her keep balance as she walked on a fallen tree with a smile on her face. "I had a feeling that Rosalie wouldn't be on board considering her values regarding human life," Anna spoke before letting Jasper grab her waist and place her back down on the ground. "But while I respect where Rosalie is coming from as she didn't get to choose, Bella and I are choosing this life," Anna added.

"We are making this choice for ourselves knowing what we won't be able to experience due to immortality but all the things I'll get to do with immortality tend to overpower mortality," Anna told Jasper as she rested her arms around Jasper's shoulders. "She'll understand in time, Darlin'," Jasper told her, his arms wrapping around her waist. "I know but I think I might have to talk with her because Graduation is coming up and--" Jasper kissed Anna to stop her from continuing her sentence. While Jasper was keen for eternity with Anna by his side, he agreed with Rosalie that she was missing her chance at humanity; at a potential family of her own.

"While kissing is definitely one of my favourite ways you shut me up, it isn't gonna change my mind or words," Anna told Jasper as she pulled back from his lips. "What holds you back, Jas? We need to talk about this because this choice isn't just mine to make, it's a shared choice. I want you to talk to me," Anna expressed to Jasper, her eyes flickered between Jasper's eyes as she spoke before resting her hands gently on the sides of his neck. Jasper leaned forward and delicately kissed her before pulling away, he grabbed one of her hands and led her to a familiar spot where the two would often sit. The ravine space between the Cullen's territory and the Quileute Reservation, the two often sat by a large boulder.

Jasper sat in silence as he looked out to the forest, Anna smiled allowing him to put his thoughts into words; moving to lay her head on his lap and closing her eyes. "I want to be with you for eternity. And knowing that you want to be with me too makes me the happiest I've ever been in my long life," Jasper began as he played with Anna's rings, the familiar bloodstone ring still resting on her ring finger; she barely ever removed the jewellery. "But I can't disagree with Rose when it comes to your humanity. What if you decide one day that you want a child? I can't give you that, Darlin'," Jasper spoke solemnly but Anna simply smiled softly at her Southern Love.

"Jasper, can I be completely honest with you?" Anna asked despite knowing the answer. "Of course, you can, Darlin'," Jasper told her as she sat up to look him in the eyes. "I adore children, I do but... the idea of labour is terrifying to me. I admire the idea of creating a child of your own flesh and blood but I don't want that," Anna told him before looking down. "I understand and accept that this choice will never allow me the opportunity of giving birth to a child but it doesn't limit the option of adoption," Anna continued without hesitation. "There are so many children in the world who deserve a chance rather than adding another to the world. Whether or not they carry my DNA, they'd be my child and that's what matters," Anna finished off as she looked up at Jasper.

"Adoption?" Jasper asked with an amused smile despite the adoration in his eyes. "Absolutely, but that's something we can do in the future. Right now, it's us and our time to be together and find where we end up," Anna answered him as she cupped his face in her hands. "This is one of the many reasons that I love you," Jasper told her before kissing her, Anna deepened the kiss causing a growl to escape Jasper which made Anna swell with pride for his response to her. Jasper moved back against the forest floor as Anna lightly pushed him, she straddled his waist and ran her fingers lightly across his stomach under his shirt.

Anna loved how Jasper responded to her touch, the way he would move into it and let her have the power over him. She moved her lips to his jaw and began kissing down towards his collarbone, not missing a single bite scar upon his pale porcelain skin. Admittedly, Anna hated that she couldn't mark him with Hickeys due to his dead skin which greatly amused Jasper each time she complained about it considering he had left her with the light bruises and teased her. As Anna moved to tease Jasper further, someone else's voice caught their attention, "In the middle of the forest?" Anna and Jasper looked to see Paul standing on the other side of the cliff with a blank expression.

Chapter Text

Anna sighed in irritation as she witnessed Paul and Jasper stand toe to toe with personal anger towards one another. Paul had heard from Sam about the return of the Cullens and instantly knew that Jasper would be by Annabeth's side as soon as he returned. He watched Anna struggle and hide away her pain behind a smile for the sake of Bella and others and he refused to let her suffer again. Meanwhile, Jasper wasn't too keen on his mate being Imprinted on by a wolf that considered him the most dangerous in the Olympic Coven; especially with Paul's own anger issues. It seems Anna attracted two of the most dangerous members of each clan.

"This is the most cliché and ridiculous show of testosterone between two men I've ever witnessed in my eighteen years of life so can we cut the macho crap," Anna asked in a bored tone that almost broke both men, they both turned their heads to Anna with amused expressions. "Let's make this simple," Anna said as she walked closer to the two of them. "Paul, Jasper is my boyfriend, mate, future, or whatever other terms that describe eternal partner," Anna told Paul directly, the words made Jasper smile to himself and he was sure that if he had been alive; he would've been a blushing mess.

"And Jasper, Paul imprinted but it's strictly platonic. He's just playing the overprotective big brother role," Anna told Jasper directly while Paul raised a brow at her with a teasing grin. "We aren't the stupid Edward-Bella-Jacob situation. Ours is not immature and desperate for validation," Anna told them in a tired voice, she knew things would get worse now that Edward was back. Jasper and Paul laughed at Annabeth's words before Paul sighed and crossed his arms against his chest, he turned his eyes from his sister to her boyfriend who stood tall at the change of emotion from the shifter in front of him.

"Do you plan on leaving her behind again?" Paul asked causing Anna to step forward but Jasper stopped her, he knew that Paul was just looking out for the girl he saw as his family. "Never again," Jasper answered him truthfully. "You plan on making it up to her?" Paul asked knowing that Jasper understood what he meant. "For the rest of our lives," Jasper answered causing Paul to look at Anna. "You wanna become a... vampire?" Paul asked her with slight hesitation, his shifter against the natural enemy while also ready to support his sister's choice. "Yes, Paul. You saw what I was like without him. And though it may be ridiculous to some people that I'd do this for a man, I'm doing it for me too," Anna answered him truthfully.

Paul sighed as he processed her words, he understood where she was coming from; he would do anything to protect her. And though he worried about her and her choice to become a Vampire; it also meant he'd never have to watch her die because she'd be immortal. And he knew that even when she eventually transitions, she'd still be the same person he knew before; if not, better than before. He pulled Anna into a hug, closing his eyes before pulling back; not being a natural cuddly person, he wouldn't hug for too long. "When?" Paul asked so he could inform Sam and work out an agreement with Carlisle. "After graduation, not straight after but sometime after," Anna answered him.

"Okay," Paul told her before moving to head back to the pack, he stopped and looked at Jasper. "If you ever hurt her, let her die or make her sad; I will rip your head from your body," Paul warned the empathic vampire who knew he wasn't lying. "If I ever do any of those, I'd let you," Jasper replied to him leaving Paul satisfied, he shifted and took off towards the pack. Anna turned to Jasper with a grin on her face, "Well, that went well. Didn't it?" Jasper huffed a laugh before pulling his girlfriend into his arms. "It definitely went better than I expected," Jasper told her. Anna laughed before leading Jasper back to the Cullen household, eager for what may come next.

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Magnolia Clave was the older twin sister to Nadia Clave, the two were complete opposites but they were closer than ever. Until Magnolia gave birth to her son who had been conceived out of wedlock. Disgusted in Magnolia, her father kicked her out of the Clave Manor into the streets; putting her son up for adoption. Magnolia lay in the streets, dying slowly due to her recent labour when she was approached by a beautiful woman who never shared her name. The woman asked Magnolia what she most desired but was stunned by the brunette's simple response.

"I want a good life for my son," Magnolia told the woman, her bright eyes widened in adoration at Magnolia's selflessness. The woman promised that her son would live a good, honest life and so would her bloodline which greatly appeased Magnolia as she felt her light fading. "But you, my dear, will be bestowed something greater. Your selfless nature and maternal love will make for a great warrior to keep my creatures in line," The woman spoke before a bright light flowed over Magnolia, she felt like she was floating as every drop of pain faded until she felt nothing but pure peace. "Welcome, Della Freya," The woman spoke as Magnolia opened her eyes to reveal pure grey.

Anna gasped lightly as she sat up, she blinked a few times as Jasper ran his fingers up and down her arm. "Everything okay, Darlin'?" Jasper asked as Anna calmed down, she let out a breath before looking over to Jasper who was smiling softly at her. "Ever since Caius told me his version of the story, it's like I've been trapped on a path of which story is true and which is not... And recently, I've been getting strange dreams about Magnolia Clave and her twin, Nadia," Anna expressed as she rested her head on Jasper's chest. "The dream I just had feels like it's only the beginning of her real story," Anna mumbled as Jasper hummed to her.

She had told him everything, he was worried but happy to know she could defend herself. But the not knowing the real story was starting to affect everyone. "Maybe Magnolia is finally telling you the real story. Perhaps she thinks it's finally the right time to reveal everything to you," Jasper told Anna who sighed. Maybe he was right, Anna just had to be patient and hope that with the answers came the lessons of what else she could do besides telekinesis, telepathy to a limitation, pathokinesis under strict focus and glimpses of the past and future. "We just have to be patient," Jasper told her. "It's all so confusing," Anna whined as she closed her eyes making Jasper laugh as sleep pulled Anna back.

Chapter Text

"Not grounded anymore?" Anna asked with a grin on her face, Charlie sighed as he took notice of the genuine joy on her face. "Just do me a favour and use your newfound freedom to spend more time with people other than Jasper," Charlie asked from his spot in her doorway. "I make no promises but I will be hanging out with my friends," Anna told her dad with a bright smile. Charlie nodded and shook his head slightly before closing her door and walking downstairs. Anna giggled as she ran her fingers through her hair, "Oh no... I guess I spend too much time with you."

Jasper walked over to her with a smirk on his face, "I can't help it, Darlin'. You're like a Siren calling me to the sea. And with beauty like yours, who am I to ignore it?" Anna rolled her eyes at Jasper before grabbing his collar and pulling him closer to her. Their lips collided and Anna arched her back into his body causing a wave of euphoria to flow over both of them. Jasper groaned deep in his throat, it was still new for Anna to use her Pathokinesis and with it, she managed to strengthen any emotion that was affecting Jasper; lust and arousal happened to go from good to euphoric pretty quickly most of the time.

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Anna still hadn't forgiven Edward. No matter how many times Bella has asked her to, the blonde witch still refuses to accept his apologies when she knows they aren't genuine. Edward knew this, however, he truthfully hated how Anna had learned how to block out his feeble attempts to access her mind; she wasn't giving him the power to use something against her. Edward deserved to be punished in some way and instead, he was gonna marry Bella and get his happy ever after even after making Jasper suffer; which only enraged Anna more than before. She had doubts about Bella being Edward's true mate, she truly believed he was addicted to the thrill of not ripping open his blood singer's throat; but her turning was the only way they'd learn the truth.

But for the sake of the Cullen family, she stays civil with Edward despite the joy she would probably get beating the crap out of him. It was no secret that Anna and Jasper had their own reservations about Edward and Bella now, they stood with Rosalie and due to his own understanding, Emmett was on their side too. But Alice was able to keep things civil between all of them until the time of graduation when everyone would most likely go their own ways. Bella would marry Edward and become a vampire, Anna would leave Forks with Jasper to see the world and the remaining Cullens would hopefully be free of Edward's pathetic attempts at playing the leader when that was Carlisle's place.

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Annabeth and Jasper walked together towards the cafeteria as Bella and Edward sat down with their usual friends, trying to turn towards Tyler and Lauren, Jasper grabbed his girlfriend's hand and pulled her towards the table. "You can't avoid them forever," Jasper whispered to Annabeth who glared at him. "I can try," Annabeth replied to him but Jasper simply laughed before pulling out a chair for her. Annabeth ignored Bella and Edward listening to the others as they talked about Jessica's valedictorian speech, Jasper rested his hand on Annabeth's thigh to ease her from Edward's stare and Bella's solemn expression.

"Hey! Just in time," Eric greeted Annabeth with more enthusiasm than he did with Bella, though she knew why considering Annabeth spent time with their friends while Bella was consistently around Edward which annoyed everyone. Annabeth was only annoyed about it because they would be together forever if she got her way so she needed to spend her time with their human friends before they'd have to stop talking to them eventually; Annabeth was taking every opportunity to hang out with her friends. "All right, check it out," Eric spoke as he motioned to Mike who nodded, "Okay. My fellow students. Right?"

Jessica nodded as Eric spoke, "Good." Annabeth smiled to herself as she interlocked her fingers with Jaspers on her thigh, he looked at her with pure love that always made Jess and Angela smile at the adorable couple. "Right? We are the future. Anything is possible if you just believe," Mike told Jessica while Annabeth shook her head. "Talk about clichés," Annabeth spoke up with a teasing grin, "This is why Jess is in charge of the speech and not you." Mike poked his tongue out at Annabeth while she laughed. "And you got yourself a speech," Mike told Jessica who denied it instantly, "No, this'll be my speech when I want everyone to throw diplomas at my head."

Annabeth laughed and pointed at Jessica, "That I can agree with." Angela laughed as she nodded in agreement with the blonde. "Thank you," Jessica responded to Annabeth with a wide grin. "You gotta embrace the clichés, Jess," Mike said before turning to Annabeth, "You say clichés all the time." Annabeth gave him a fake offended look, "My clichés are the bomb." The others laughed while Annabeth rolled her eyes playfully moving to rest her head on Jasper's shoulder. He had never been so eased in his life, he practically revelled in the fact he could be around humans with his mate by his side and not feel a signal dread of thirst.

"They are the bread and butter of all valedictorians," Eric defended Mike while winking at Annabeth who scoffed. "And that is why you are not valedictorian," Angela told Eric who looked to his girlfriend in mock offence. "And Jess doesn't need clichés. The speech is gonna be epic," Bella spoke up with a determined expression to prove her words. "Epic? It'll change lives," Jessica replied to her. "Amen!" Annabeth said as she high-fived Jessica who smiled proudly. Alice and Colton sat down at the table, the former with a wide grin on her face while Colton was watching everyone with his usual smirk.

"I've decided to throw a party," Alice informed the group making Annabeth and Isabella look at their friend with eyes wide, they knew why she was doing it but at the same time, they were a little worried about a party in the Cullen household. "After all, how many times are we gonna graduate high school?" Colton asked as he glanced at Bella and Anna who both raised their brows at his underlying comment. "A party? At your place?" Angela asked in slight disbelief. "I've never seen your house," Jessica added though Annabeth could practically feel the fear and disbelief from her. "It's beautiful," Annabeth spoke up easing both girls instantly.

"Another party, Alice?" Edward asked. "It'll be fun," Alice replied to Edward. "Yeah. That's what you said last time," Bella said making Alice slightly self-conscious which annoyed Annabeth who glared at her older sister. "I think it's a great idea. The last party was ruined thanks to you," Annabeth sneered at her sister who looked down. Jasper sent a calming wave to his soul bound who had sent Edward a burning glare at his scoff. Annabeth noticed Alice's dazed expression, the way Edward's attention became distracted as Bella spoke to Angela; Annabeth was instantly concerned when Alice looked at her.

"What was it that Alice saw?" Annabeth asked Jasper as she got into the car with him, he had just spent time talking with Edward and Colton. "And don't bother telling me it was nothing, Jas because I will punch you," Annabeth added before he could say anything. Jasper smirked at her words before leaning over and kissing her, Annabeth melted into the kiss but she wasn't gonna let it deter her; even when he tried overpowering her emotions to distract her, she fought back making him growl before pulling away. "Did I ever mention how much I love your stubborn personality?" Jasper asked her in a low tone. "Yes, but I'd be happy to hear it again," Annabeth practically purred before kissing him, her questions can wait.

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"We've been tracking the cases of the missing people in Seattle for a while," Jasper told Annabeth as he lay with her in his bed, "There's been unexplained disappearances and killings around the area. And if the situation gets any more conspicuous, the Volturi will step in." Annabeth nodded with a sigh, "Which means they will find out about Bella still being human." Jasper nodded at Annabeth who closed her eyes and took in a breath, "And Caius warned me that Aro will kill me if I stand against him." Jasper's arms tightened around Annabeth's waist, moving his head into the crook of her neck where he placed a soft delicate kiss on her skin.

"I won't let him," Jasper whispered to Annabeth who lightly ran her fingers up and down his arm. "For now, there's the concerns in Seattle... Could it be connected to Victoria?" Anna asked Jasper who was reminded about Victoria attacking Anna and threatening her. He was, for the first time in his eternal life, terrified of what tomorrow could bring. To many, Edward's decision to not live in a world where Bella is gone may have been ridiculous but to Jasper, he understood his brother's decision perfectly; His life was nothing without Annabeth Swan. He'd protect her right up until his last moments, he would spend every day showering her with love and compassion in hopes of repaying her a fraction of the pure happiness she gives him.

"Whether or not, Victoria has a part in it we don't know but Newborns are being made, that we know," Jasper answered her. "We can handle it," Anna told him with a small smile before she moved to straddle his hips, Jasper moved into a more comfortable position before placing his hands behind his head. "We can handle all of it. Victoria, the Volturi, Newborns, and Nomads... We'll make it through and as the days go by, we'll be closer to our eternal life," Anna told him in a whisper as she leaned down, kissing him with a delicacy that made Jasper yearn for me. "Together?" Jasper whispered against her lips. "Yeah, together," Anna replied before Jasper switched them around and claimed her lips.

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Anna walked up to the station looking between her sister, father and Edward noticing the slight tension in the air. "Why are you lot brooding?" Anna asked with a teasing smirk, she walked up to Charlie and hugged him; the older man trying to ignore the clear hickey on his daughter's neck; if only he knew about the ones on her hips and thighs. "Jasper does remember that I own a gun, right?" Charlie asked Anna as the two pulled away from each other. "He does but if anyone should be punished for these... actions, it should be me, Dad. I'm the one who starts it," Anna told Charlie with a grin that made Charlie shake his head. "Could've lived without knowing that," Charlie told her but Anna simply laughed before looking at Bella and Edward who seemed irritated.

Anna simply smirked at the two, she knew that Bella was frustrated because Edward couldn't even kiss Bella without freaking out and stopping; the curse of dating your blood singer. "Anyway, Edward and Bella mentioned that you two were gifted with round-trip tickets to visit your mom," Charlie told Anna who nodded despite her slight annoyance with the fact that Edward would be tagging along with them, she was hoping to spend time with his sister for a change but that wasn't gonna happen. "Uh, yeah. We were gonna go this weekend," Anna told him with a smile. "Is Jasper going?" Charlie asked which made Anna laugh. "Uh, no. Jasper and I know how to be in a relationship while being respectful of personal time," Anna told him ignoring Bella and Edward while Charlie smiled at that.

She hated it. The distance between her and Bella was something she never expected to happen when they moved to Forks to live with their father but it was something she was dealing with. Bella and Anna used to be close and unbreakable but Bella's obsession with Edward seemed to have created a rift between the two. Anna could've just accepted it all and just dealt with it but she couldn't help but notice the differences between her sister's relationship to someone like Carlisle and Esme; Edward was playing a dangerous game but Bella was the one borderline obsessed. While Anna wished she had that same close bond with her sister, she understood that siblings grow apart and it was a part of life.

Their visit to Florida was a fun one besides Bella and Edward's suffocating relationship. Anna got to spend time with Phil while Bella was with Renée and then time with Renée while Bella was spending time with Edward. Anna spent the time talking about school and her friends, especially Tyler who had told her to brag about him. She told her mom about her loving Southern boyfriend who treats her like a Queen, which Renée had practically squealed about. Anna knew she had another chance to see her mother again because she was planning on waiting for a while before turning while Bella wanted it as soon as possible. Anna just hoped the days would go by quickly because eternity still sounded perfect.

Chapter Text

Anna rode her motorcycle into the school parking lot with Jasper following behind her in his family Jeep. Anna spotted the conflict between Jacob and Edward, she jumped off of her bike and rushed over to pull Jacob back before a scene broke out. "Jake, enough," Anna spoke sternly causing him to step back as Jasper walked over. "I'm coming here to warn you. If your kind come on out lands again..." Jacob trailed off seeing Bella look between him and Edward confused. "Wait, what?" Bella asked while Anna sighed and looked down. "You didn't tell her? Anna?" Jacob turned to the blonde who rolled her eyes, she could see his protective nature towards Bella appear.

"Just leave it alone, Jacob," Edward warned but it was too late, Bella already caught on to something important and she never backed down. "Tell me what?" Bella asked as Anna noticed the crowd, Alice and Colton standing a short distance away. "Emmett and Paul had a misunderstanding, there's nothing to worry about," Edward answered her while Anna gritted her teeth, she was still upset with both males. With Paul for not backing down when they were chasing the same thing and with Emmett for taunting Paul into a fight. "Listen to you. Did you lie to get her out of town, too?" Jacob taunted making Anna angry.

Anna stepped into Jacob's view with her eyes no longer blue but overlapped by grey to show she wasn't screwing around. "You need to step off your pedestal, Jacob Black. There are no lies and you are not manipulating this situation to risk a chance with my sister, so back off," Anna warned causing Jacob to step back again, Bella watched with wide eyes while Edward lowered his head; Jasper was watching with a proud smirk. "She has a right to know," Jacob defended. "Victoria is after me, Jacob. Edward was protecting her and you have no right to come in here hoping to get between them," Anna told him as her eyes returned to their natural blue.

"By lying to me?" Bella spoke up with an upset expression, her eyes glancing between her younger sister and boyfriend. Bella cut Edward off before he could say anything, "We're gonna talk about this, but... You." Bella turned to Jacob who held his head high as Anna moved to stand with Jasper. "Why haven't you called me back?" Bella asked Jacob. "I have nothing to say," Jacob answered her making Anna roll her eyes. "I'm not dealing with this," Anna muttered before grabbing Jasper's hand and walking away from the trio of madness. "Did I mention that I love it when you take charge?" Jasper whispered to Anna as they walked inside. "I don't recall but it's good to know," Anna told him with a teasing wink.

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Anna walked into her room feeling off, she looked towards her desk and noticed the photo of her and Bella had been moved; Charlie and Bella knew better than to touch her stuff. She turned to her closet, opening the door swiftly with her eyes overlapped by grey but no one was in there. She tilted her head before turning towards the window, she approached it and let her hand hover above the sill. "Someone's been here," Edward's voice caught her attention, she turned to see him and Bella watching her with worried expressions. "It was bound to happen sooner or later," Anna said with a frown, she had a feeling it was Victoria's doing but Edward was adamant on blaming the Volturi which only annoyed Anna.

The trio headed to the Cullen household, Jasper immediately approached his mate who assured him she was okay despite feeling slightly violated about a stranger going through her things; he headed off to track the scent. "Who was it?" Someone we know?" Alice asked as they all got comfortable in the living room. "Just a stranger. I didn't recognize his scent," Edward answered her while Rosalie held Anna's hand for comfort. "A nomad passing through?" Esme questioned. "A passer-by wouldn't have left Anna and Bella's father alive," Rosalie said causing the twins to glance at each other, Anna swallowed carefully at that thought and closed her eyes.

Jasper burst through the door and headed straight for his mate, "His scent disappeared about five miles south of the Swan house." Anna leaned into Jasper as he pulled her closer to him, he wanted to kill the vampire that had come near her. "Someone's orchestrating this," Edward stated as he looked between the twins, Anna sighed at his words. "Victoria?" Carlisle asked but Alice shook her head, "I would've seen her deciding." Edward scoffed, "It has to be the Volturi." Anna shook her head at that, the Volturi wouldn't be behind this; Victoria was the obvious choice after the attack and threats. "I don't think it's the Volturi either. I've been watching Aro's decisions, too," Alice told him.

"So we keep looking," Emmett said with determination while Anna stood up and began pacing the room. "We also take shifts, guarding Anna and Bella at their home," Carlisle added with a nod. "Another protection detail?" Rosalie sneered with a glare towards Bella. "Rosalie," Esme sternly warned. "No, she's right. You can't protect me, protect Anna, watch my dad... and search for the intruder," Bella began before Anna continued, "And for Victoria while keeping yourselves fed. I can at least protect the house." Edward turned to Bella, "I'm not leaving you here defenceless." Anna rolled her eyes severely annoyed by Edward's lack of trust in her abilities as a witch.

"Well, I'm not gonna let you starve. And I wouldn't be unprotected, I have Anna and..." Bella trailed off as she thought about someone else who could help. "The pack will help," Anna spoke up as she looked at the family, "Despite feeling irritated by Edward's doubts about my skills, I know that they will help. Don't forget, Paul imprinted on me and Jacob will protect Bella no matter what. Plus gives them a chance to kill some vampires... a win-win situation." Anna grinned at them before turning to leave the room, she felt a headache forming and the tension was becoming too much.

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Anna was sitting on her bed with Jessica going through her closet, meanwhile, in Bella's room, Angela was hanging out with the older Swan. "What are you thinking of wearing under your graduation gown?" Jessica asked Anna who shrugged while doing her homework, the headache had lessened but it still felt uncomfortable even after a couple of days. "You think you could choose for me... fashion is not my forte," Anna asked Jessica, the perky brunette happily agreed before turning back to the closet. "I still cannot believe that you and Jasper Hale are together... though I will admit, it works perfectly," Jessica told Anna as she sat down on the bed.

"He's amazing, Jess," Anna said with a fond smile while Jessica swooned and laid back against the bed. "This is what I adore about you and Jasper, when you look at each other or talk about each other, you can practically feel the love radiating off of you," Jessica rambled making Anna smile. "But with Edward and Bella, like, respectfully, it's borderline obsessive in the way they act," Jessica added before sitting up at Anna's raised brow, "Oh, don't get me wrong... I can see love between them but it's... it seems so unnatural and forced. At least to me." Anna nodded as she processed Jessica's words. "It's different for them, I guess," Anna shrugged.

The two friends spent the night laughing and having fun gossiping, Anna adored these moments more than anything because it's a reminder that everything matters; even the smallest details. In the morning, Jessica and Anna joined Bella and Angela for breakfast and spent time with each other talking and watching movies before Jessica headed home, Angela leaving not too soon after her. Bella and Edward left the house together while Anna got on her bike and headed to the pack house, she spotted Paul racing her in wolf form making her laugh as she barely beat him there. "So close," Anna teased Paul who chuckled.

"So what's happening?" Anna questioned Paul as he put his arm around her shoulders, he led her over to a fire surrounded by people eating hot dogs and laughing. "It's a council meeting, thought it'd be nice to invite you along to learn the history," Paul answered her as they grabbed some food before sitting down by the fire. "The Quileutes have been a small tribe from the beginning..." Billy Black began as Jacob and Bella walked over and sat down. "But, we've always had magic in our blood. We were great spirit warriors... Shapeshifters, that transform into the powerful wolf. This enabled us to scare off our enemies, and protect our tribe," Billy continued fully entrancing the Swan twins.

"One day our warriors came across a creature. It looked like a man, but it was hard like stone, and cold as ice," Billy's voice was low as he spoke, Anna and Bella glanced at each other at the mention of Vampires. "Our warriors' sharp teeth, finally tore it apart but only fire would completely destroy it," Billy added while Anna flashed back to the memories of James being burned alive in the Ballet Studio. "They lived in fear that the Cold Man was not alone. And they were right. She took her vengeance out on the village. Our elder chief, Taha Aki, was the only spirit warrior left to save the tribe after his son was killed," Billy continued as Bella glanced at Anna, the blonde listening carefully.

"Taha Aki's third wife could see that he would lose. The third wife was no magical being, no special powers but one... courage. The third wife's sacrifice distracted the Cold Woman long enough for Taha Aki to destroy her. She had saved the tribe," Billy's eyes landed on Anna, he had heard the story about her fight against James through Paul; he knew about her using her blood to distract James long enough to save Bella. "Over time, our enemies have disappeared. But one remains, the Cold Ones. Our magic awakens when they're near. And we sense it now, we feel the threat in our blood. Something terrible is coming. And we must be ready. All of us," Billy's words were a warning to the Swan twins.

Anna was unfocused as Billy went into the story of Della Freya and her connections to the Quileute Tribe. She was processing what Billy had said, her mind reeling as she realised what was happening; Victoria wasn't making any moves because she knew what Alice was capable of, she had someone else making the choices. "Anna?" Bella's voice pulled her from her spiralling thoughts, she cleared her throat before smiling. "I'm okay," Anna told her noticing the way she was looking at her, Bella was hesitant but with the rift between them, things were still unsteady and distant. "Let's take a walk," Paul offered noticing Anna's attempt to avoid Bella, he helped her up and led her away.

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The next day, Anna sat with Jasper and the rest of the clan watching the television as a news reporter spoke about the recent murders and disappearances. "Police are baffled by the escalating murder and disappearances," The reporter spoke as Bella and Edward walked into the room, "Theories range from a vicious new gang to a wildly active serial killer... Reporting live, Dawn Chubai. CNN." Anna sighed as she ran her fingers through her hair, she turned to look at Jasper who was watching the TV in concern. "It's getting worse. We're gonna have to do something," Carlisle spoke up while the twins glanced at each other.

"It takes more than one of our kind to cause the damage they're reporting," Jasper began, "Quite a few more. They're undisciplined, conspicuous..." Anna leaned into Jasper more as he tensed up, memories flashing through his mind of his past. "Newborns," Edward spoke up with Jasper and Colton agreeing, the two sharing a similar background. "What... like new vampires?" Bella asked with Anna nodding. "In their first few months after the change," Edward told her. "That's when we're at our most uncontrollable, vicious, insane with thirst," Jasper added though his words were a warning to the sisters wanting to go through the transition to be with their beloveds.

"Something to look forward to," Emmett said to Bella considering she was the one who wanted the change so bad, Anna's situation had changed since learning about being a witch; they weren't sure if Anna could turn. "No one has trained these newborns, but this isn't random," Colton spoke up from beside Alice who was radiating concern. "Someone's creating an army," Carlisle said as he looked around the room. Emmett stood up from the couch with an enthusiastic grin, "Oh, now we're definitely going to Seattle." Colton smirked at Emmett, the two admittedly enjoyed these moments of battling their own kind no matter what the others may think.

"An army of vampires?" Bella asked in disbelief, her eyes wide in shock. "And they've been created to fight someone," Jasper added though he took notice of Anna's silence along with the distant look in her eyes. "We're the only clan even close to Seattle," Edward said as he looked to Carlisle for any other clans possible. "Regardless of who, if we don't put a stop to them, the Volturi will. I'm surprised they've let it go on this long," Carlisle told everyone but even Anna knew that the Volturi weren't fans of the Olympic Coven, they were a threat and Aro could only hope these Newborns would wipe them out for him. "Maybe they're behind it. In Italy, I read Aro's mind... he wants me and Alice to join him," Edward's words made Anna scoff.

"The Volturi isn't behind this, Edward. No matter how convinced you may be. Aro's decisions are being watched and this isn't his style," Anna finally spoke as she stood up, "He wouldn't risk the reveal of his world knowing the consequences it would bring. He may not be doing anything about it, but he isn't behind it." Edward and Anna stared at one another, he was trying to get into her head but she was blocking him off. "It's someone else... someone who still wants revenge, a puppeteer using a puppet to stay in the shadows," Anna continued as she turned away from everyone, "I'm certain it's Victoria coming after me. She lost her mate, James and now she wants revenge."

Chapter Text

Anna stormed out of the house with an angered expression, she was done dealing with Edward and Bella for the day. "A woman on a mission is never a good sign," Grandma Rose's voice pulled Anna from her mind. "Gran?" Anna spoke with a smile before pulling her in for a hug. "How have you been, my little Annie?" Grandma Rose asked as she pulled away, placing her hands on Anna's face with a wide grin. "Holding back from murder," Anna said with an innocent smile that made Grandma Rose laugh. "You need to be patient with your sister, she isn't as logical and independent as you are," Grandma Rose said before looking behind Anna to see Bella standing there with Edward.

"Uh, yes. Edward Cullen, the vampire who caught the obsessive eye of my eldest granddaughter," Grandma Rose greeted with a sly grin that made Anna bite back a smirk. "Isabella," Grandma Rose reached out for her and pulled her in for a hug, Anna had told the Cullens and Bella about Grandma Rose being a witch connected to nature. "The one who held no witch connection," Grandma Rose said as she pulled back from Bella, "Though you do have the shield. So I guess Anna protects you in every way." Anna rolled her eyes before noticing a familiar car pull up to the house, a lovestruck smile appearing on her face as Jasper got out and approached her.

"Hello Darling," Jasper greeted, kissing Anna's forehead as he does with every greeting. "Gran, this is Jasper. Jasper, this is my grandmother, Rosemary," Anna introduced them as Bella and Edward stepped to the side. "Ah, the Southern charmer as my sweet Annie claims," Grandma Rose said as she reached to shake his hand, Jasper lifting her knuckles to his lips for a gentle kiss. "It's a pleasure to meet you, ma'am," Jasper spoke making Grandma Rose laugh fondly to herself. "My, my, Annie, you got very lucky," Grandma Rose told Anna who laughed and rolled her eyes. "Now, how about we talk about this newborn army, hmm?" Grandma Rose asked before walking into the house.

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Magnolia stood in the morning sun with a smile on her face, she had her eyes closed but she still felt the presence of someone standing next to her. "How was your time with Caius?" Nadia, Magnolia's younger sister asked with a smile on her face. "It was beautiful... the moonlight shining down on us as we danced in the forest. He was beyond sweet," Magnolia told her little sister with a wide grin. "That sounds amazing," Nadia replied with a bitter undertone that Magnolia didn't notice. "Have you heard about the newborns recently?" Nadia asked her sister, her eyes analysing Magnolia's responses. "You're playing with fire, Nadia," Magnolia warned.

"But the warmth feels so nice," Nadia taunted as Magnolia turned to her, Nadia's blood-red eyes were a constant reminder of the choice Nadia had made for herself. "Until you get burned, little sister," Magnolia replied to her with a raised brow, Nadia scoffed before turning to the sunshine that made her skin sparkle. "And you win again," Nadia muttered in distaste before she took off leaving Magnolia to watch her with a sad expression. "Don't let it get to you," Another voice spoke, he sent her a reassuring smile. "Sisters drift apart as they get older, you can only do so much," He added, Magnolia smiled at his words before they looked back out to the meadow.

"You must be prepared, Maggie. Aro will not take your decisions well," Her male companion warned her, his worried eyes focused on the relaxed witch. "I do not fear what Aro plans for me, Alistair. Whatever will be, will be," Magnolia replied to him, he shook his head due to her words. "A day will come, Alistair where you will be greatly tested. Is your survival worth more than that of another?" Magnolia asked rhetorically, Alistair looked down due to Magnolia's words before turning and walking away from her. "I wish you well, old friend," Magnolia whispered before Alistair sped off into the forest leaving Magnolia to enjoy the sunshine.

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"So Nadia was a vampire?" Anna questioned as she looked up at her Grandmother, the woman had been informed about Caius' perspective and began digging further into Magnolia's true story. "Yes. And she had worked with the Volturi for a short time after Magnolia's death according to the people I've spoken with," Grandma Rose answered Anna who leaned back on the couch, she sighed as she thought back to the Nomad who had thrown her off of her bike. "What did she look like?" Anna asked with furrowed brows. "Similar to her sister, they were twins after all," Grandma Rose told her with a teasing smile. "I've met her then, she threw me off of my bike," Anna said.

"But she left pretty quickly after finding out about my power," Anna added before groaning to herself in annoyance, "Aro wasn't completely surprised by my power show. I confirmed it for her." Grandma Rose looked up at Anna with a sigh, "If Nadia was searching for you, she would be hoping to get what she wanted back." Bella looked from Edward to her grandmother with a worried expression, "What will Nadia want?" Anna looked at Bella before turning back to her Grandmother for the answer that would change everything for them. "Mortality, dears. Nadia wants to be mortal again," Grandma Rose answered leaving them to process the new information about Anna's true power.

"Mortality... I can make a vampire mortal again," Anna breathed out as she laid back on her bed later that night. Jasper turned his head to his mate as she closed her eyes. After spending time with Grandma Rose discussing the Newborn situation along with the treaty agreement between the Cullens and the Pack, the older woman told them she'd reach out to friends to find out who could be connected to the army of newborns while searching for Nadia herself. Anna wasn't against it, if Nadia wanted to be human again; she'd grant that wish because she wasn't a monster who would let her suffer but the concept of it seemed so insane to Anna.

"There'd have to be a consequence of it... surely, I couldn't just make a vampire mortal without something bad in the process," Anna rambled while Jasper watched her, he lightly brushed her hair out of her face. "Your grandmother is gonna look into it. For now, let's focus on the immediate danger of the newborns," Jasper told her softly, cupping her face and turning her attention to him. "I agree with you. Victoria playing the puppeteer makes the most sense," Jasper whispered to her, his thumb caressing her cheek. "Edward won't listen until there's proof... I'm just worried about people getting hurt in the process," Anna told Jasper with a frown.

"If we stick together, we'll all make it through. You just gotta remember to fight through it," Jasper replied to her softly, he leaned in and pressed his lips against hers. Anna melted into Jasper as he hovered above her, admittedly, Anna loved how primal Jasper became during their nights of intimacy. She knew he held back in fear of hurting her which only makes her fantasise about what he'd be like once she goes through the change. Jasper, noticing her emotional change smirks to himself as she flips them over to straddle his hips. "You're always in charge, cowboy. It's my time," Anna whispered against his lips before kissing down his jaw making Jasper close his eyes in pleasure.

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Anna climbed off of her bike and practically threw her helmet aside as she walked towards Jacob who was talking to Embry and Quil, Jared noticed her and pointed her out to Paul who hadn't been expecting her to visit. "Oh shit," Embry breathed out watching as Anna's eyes were overlapped by grey, Jacob went flying into a wall as the others stepped back to avoid being hit in the crossfire. "YOU KISSED MY SISTER WITHOUT HER CONSENT!?" Anna shouted at Jacob before grabbing him and pushing him back against the wall with strength none of them had seen before. "A-Anna..." Jacob grunted as he tried to fight her off.

"You better listen real good, Jacob Black... Bella may be daft due to obsessive love with Edward but you have no right to force yourself on her like it's a fairy tale and true love's kiss will fix everything for you," Anna snapped at him, "You're barely seventeen, Jacob. And she isn't your imprint and she has told you clearly that she isn't in love with you. Accept no, Jacob. Otherwise, I will do so much worse than this." Anna backed off of Jacob who dropped to the ground gasping for his breath, Anna turned around and walked away while Embry and Quil helped Jacob get up. "She's right, Jacob," Paul added before he watched Anna ride off on her bike, he immediately sent Jasper a message.

When Anna stormed into the Swan residence, she saw Jasper sitting on the stairs waiting for her and he was quick to notice the tears in her eyes. Jasper stood up and opened his arms for Anna, she rushed into them and let the tears fall from the build-up of frustration. Anna was exhausted, stressed and completely unaware of the full limitations of her power; she wanted answers but felt like she'd never get them. Jasper wished he could take away all of her pain and troubles, take her far away from Forks and show her all of his favourite places in the world; And spend every day reminding her that nothing else truly matters but their love.

"Everything is too much, Jasper. The threat of the Volturi, the rift between Bella and I, Nadia and Magnolia, the Newborns in Seattle, and Victoria wanting revenge..." Anna took in a shaky breath as she looked up at Jasper who cupped her face in his hands. "I just wish everything would just slow down and give us a chance to be normal," Anna told him before sighing, "I wouldn't change anything but the troubles." Jasper smiled before pulling her in for another hug, he knew she needed this moment to breathe. "How about we take a break? A night for just us and nothing else?" Jasper whispered to her. "Yes, please," Anna asked him.

Chapter Text

Magnolia Bethany Clave was the older twin sister to Nadia Isobel Clave, the sisters were born on the thirteenth of August in 1722 to Jean and Henry Clave. She was an ordinary girl with a strong bond with her little sister, the two lived up to the title of twins as you couldn't see one without the other. Magnolia was a protective soul with a passion for helping people, her role in her village was as a healer; dealing with the ill and injured. Magnolia was desired by many suitors in the small village but no one had ever caught her attention except for the day Amias showed up injured, he had her attention the moment his foreign accent echoed through her head.

From that day, Magnolia spent her nights in the meadow where Amias would meet her and the two shared many intimate experiences. Magnolia was truly falling in love with Amias but it wasn't the same for him, the man had his fun and left Magnolia behind once he left town. Magnolia was heartbroken by Amias' actions however, her life changed drastically when she found out she was pregnant with his child. Henry Clave was beyond angered by his daughter's indiscretions and once her son was born, he was sent off to a family while Magnolia was banished from her home.

Magnolia had fallen to the meadows she adored, tears streaming down her face as she stared up at the stars in the sky. A cloaked woman approached the broken girl, her heart clenched with each sob that left her mouth. "Oh, dear one... you do not deserve such sorrow," The woman spoke in a wistful tone pulling Magnolia's attention to her. Magnolia admired the beautiful woman, her bright blue eyes and fiery red hair that resembled fire but her smile made Magnolia feel relaxed. "Tell me, little dove. If you could have one wish, what would it be?" The woman asked Magnolia who took in a shaky breath. "My son... I want him to have a good life," Magnolia answered the woman who was amazed by her wish.

Sophronia, the Goddess Witch granted Magnolia her wish; her son Joseph would live a good life in both health and wealth. But still amazed by the purity in Magnolia's soul, blessing her with gifts that made her both a healer and a protector. Sophronia taught Magnolia how to work her magic, using it to protect her brother, Philomon's creations such as Shifters, Vampires, and many more. Magnolia had been amazed by the new world she had become a part of, her new name shared with the world; Della Freya. She used her new powers to end wars, protect innocents and heal those who are close to death. Sophronia was proud of the young witch returning to her own world trusting Magnolia to protect this one.

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"Annabeth, you must understand that my life wasn't as simple as you may believe," Magnolia told Annabeth in her dream. Grandma Rose had returned with a crystal that belonged to Magnolia, the moment that Anna had grabbed it, she was taken into memories that belonged to Magnolia. "I was blessed with a burden that changed everything in my life and I'm sure you've heard all kinds of stories and misunderstood rumours," Magnolia continued with a sigh as she admired the meadow she remembered from her childhood. "I fell in love with Caius and we were together for a long time before I met Mikael who imprinted on me," Magnolia smiled fondly remembering her different loves; One Epic and the other Eternal.

"I knew that Caius wasn't bound to me, he had someone else out there searching for him and I wasn't going to be the one to hold them apart," Magnolia turned to Anna, "And I knew Mikael loved me before he had imprinted but he stayed away to respect my love for Caius. However, Nadia hated it all. I don't know why. Whether it was personal or just envy and jealousy, I never asked... she had told Aro about Mikael and Aro acted instantly." Anna frowned seeing the broken look in Magnolia's eyes, the way she took in a slow breath reliving her past made Anna feel bad for the woman who only ever wanted to be happy.

"I found Mikael's body, he had been killed in a way I won't describe to you but Aro left a warning to me; he threatened that if I didn't join his cause then my son would pay the price," Magnolia told Anna as the sky darkened, a rumble in the distance. "I didn't know what to do and I hoped that Nadia would stand with me but that was when she told me what she had done," Magnolia frowned as she spoke, she lifted her hand to reveal a Jasmine flower. "Nadia adored Jasmines, the symbolic purity always made her smile. Vampirism and Aro had messed with Nadia's head filling it with beliefs that damaged the sweet girl I once knew," Magnolia and Anna watched as the flower died.

"My sister became obsessive with power, protecting her immortality and finding her mate," Magnolia looked up at Anna, "But when she learned that her mate was also her blood singer, she was heartbroken." Anna furrowed her brows at those words, "What do you mean? How can you tell if your blood singer is your mate?" Magnolia sat down in the grass before patting the spot next to her. "When a vampire comes across their blood singer, the frenzy it creates cannot be fought unless by two specific reasons; they're a hunter who lives for the chase, like James, or their loving spark overpowers the thirst," Magnolia answered causing Anna to look down at the bracelet around her wrist.

"Yes, Annabeth... Isabella is Edward's true mate and she will become immortal," Magnolia told her making Anna sigh, she hadn't expected Magnolia's words. "I'd blame the witch side of things... that's why I'm surprised you aren't pregnant at this point," Magnolia teased making Anna's eyes widen. "What?!" Anna shrieked with a terrified expression. "Witches and Vampires can procreate... Witches can both intentionally and unintentionally alter a vampire's venom and use the DNA to create life," Magnolia explained to Anna who looked stunned by this knowledge. "Then why?" Anna trailed off uncertain she wanted the answer to that question. "Obviously because you don't have a baby on your mind but it does tell you that one day, you could," Magnolia told her with a smile.

"Of course, that's if you decide to stay a human... I don't think it'll work the same once you've become immortal," Magnolia said with a far-off expression. "Do you know what happens to my powers if I go through the change?" Anna asked Magnolia who smiled at her, brushing her hair out of her face. "Many of your abilities are siphoned from your humanity, so you'll be unable to use them however, a fair few gifts will stick around and make you a powerful vampire," Magnolia answered her truthfully. The two women sat in silence admiring the meadow, the cool breeze pushing through their hair as the clouds cleared away to reveal the blue sky and the sun setting over the hills.

"Magnolia, is it true that I can cure immortality?" Anna asked her ancestor who frowned and turned to the blonde. "I only ever did it once and the consequences were beyond draining for me but I was terrified to do it again," Magnolia answered her before pulling the dress sleeve down to reveal a mark. "I almost died because technically, I was doing necromancy by bringing someone dead back to life and the process was painful for the person too. He wished I never did it 'cause it was worse than the venom it took to turn him," Magnolia continued before covering the mark on her arm with her sleeve, "I couldn't use my magic for months after, I was tired all the time and genuinely spent days thinking it was my last."

Anna looked down at hearing that, she wanted to help Nadia who had suffered in her life but the risks were ones she couldn't take; not just for her, but for her family and especially for Jasper. "Nadia doesn't want mortality, Anna. She wants you to bring her mate back to life, he died to Marcus before she could turn him," Magnolia told Anna knowing why she was asking. "But bringing someone back to life... it takes a toll on you and your magic. A toll you may not want to risk in your situation," Magnolia continued as the sun slowly disappeared behind the hills. "Our time is running out... you must follow your own heart, Annabeth. And always remember, whatever will be, will be," Magnolia said as Anna closed her eyes and everything went dark.

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Aro stood in front of Magnolia, she held her head high as he smirked to himself. "I knew you would come, Aro. You're more transparent than you know," Magnolia told him with her content smile, she knew what was coming. "You had a choice, Magnolia. To stand with the powerful ones of the world and you choose filth," Aro expressed with distaste, he didn't like the calm look in Magnolia's eyes. "I choose myself, Aro. Not your corruption," Magnolia replied as she adjusted the blanket on the couch. "Tell me, how did Marcus take the news about his mate? Your sister? Or does he still not know?" Magnolia taunted Aro who sneered at her.

"The days of your reign will end, Aro and when that time comes, I do hope you are prepared for what is in store for you," Magnolia forewarned before stepping in front of Aro, she ignored the presence of Jane and Alec. "Dear Magnolia, you can pretend to show no fear but I know that you are scared," Aro told her as he stepped closer to her. "I will not deny fear, Aro but that does not deter my fate. I know my future, how little it will be but I also know that the ones you claim loyal will not trust in you forever," Magnolia told him before closing her eyes, "Whatever will be, will be." Aro growled before grabbing her heart and tearing it from her chest, Magnolia was dead.

Later that night, Caius rushed into the quiet home and stopped in the doorway, his eyes widened at the sight of Magnolia's body while her heart rested a few feet away. He dropped to his knees, venom pooling in his eyes but not a tear would fall as he lifted her body into his arms and wept dry into her neck. He may have found his mate Athenodora but he still loved Magnolia; she was his first love. Caius buried Magnolia's body in her favourite field, planting a cherry tree remembering it was her favourite and before he left, he placed a bouquet of Jasmine flowers for her. He made a promise that night to protect her bloodline and that promise he kept.

Chapter Text

Annabeth pulled on the ringlet watching as it bounced back, "Curls feel so different, Rose." Rosalie grinned as she finished off Anna's hair for her graduation. "Jasper still being protective?" Rosalie asked despite knowing that he was downstairs waiting for Anna. "He's just worried after that weird dream world I was dragged into which caused me to faint in the middle of the living room," Anna reminded Rosalie who nodded in understanding, the blonde had been passed out for almost a full day which scared Jasper. Rosalie firmly believed that if Jasper was human, he'd have had a panic attack already.

"All right, your hair is done," Rosalie told her before stepping back to admire her work. Anna wore a navy blue dress that Jessica had chosen for her along with some black ankle boots chosen by Angela. "You look beautiful," Rosalie complimented with a grin, Anna rolled her eyes fondly. "Thank you, Rose," Anna told her before the two hugged. "I told Bella my story," Rosalie told Anna as she pulled out of the hug. "Rose, I adore you. You're my family at this point and I know your past haunts you but remember that it's different for others," Anna told her softly before giving her another hug knowing not to push any further.

Anna grabbed her gown after Rosalie left and headed downstairs to where Jasper was sitting at the table waiting for her. "I'm ready to go now," Anna said as she reached the bottom step, Jasper looked up at her and smiled as he admired the way her navy blue dress flowed to her knees. "You look... wow," Jasper breathed out as he stood up and approached her, taking her hand in his before kissing her. "You look very handsome... you're graduating for what? The eighteenth time?" Anna teased after he pulled back, he laughed at her question before standing straight. "Tease all you like but I'm still smarter," Jasper told her as they headed out of the house, Anna laughing at Jasper's comments.

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"When we were five, they asked us what we wanted to be when we grew up," Jessica began her speech in front of students, families and teachers. "Our answers were things like astronaut, president... Or in my case, princess," Jessica said with flair making everyone laugh with her. "When we were ten, they asked again and we answered - Rockstar, cowboy, or in my case, gold medallist," Jessica continued while Anna looked at Jasper at the mention of cowboy and winked making him smirk. "But now that we've grown up, they want a serious answer. Well, how about this: Who the hell knows?" Jessica exclaimed bringing a smile to Anna's face, she shared a glance with Bella.

"This isn't the time to make hard and fast decisions, it's a time to make mistakes. Take the wrong train and get stuck somewhere chill. Fall in love ─ a lot. Major in philosophy because there's no way to make a career out of that," The audience laughed, "Change your mind. Then change it again, because nothing is permanent. So make as many mistakes as you can. That way, someday, when they ask again what we want to be... we won't have to guess. We'll know," Jessica finished off with a grin on her face. After collecting their diplomas, the graduates cheered as they threw their caps into the air; Anna wrapped her arms around Jasper as they shared a kiss. High School was over.

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Anna and Jasper had reached the Cullen residence before the party began, the couple headed upstairs to his room where Anna dropped her cap and gown onto his desk before falling back against the bed. "It feels so weird to be done with high school," Anna told Jasper, her eyes focused on the ceiling. "It gets weirder after years of doing it," Jasper told her as he placed his gown to the side, undoing his tie and throwing it aside. "That's something to deal with then," Anna mumbled as she closed her eyes. She felt the bed dip, soft cold lips pressed against her jaw making her smile. "I'm proud of you, darling," Jasper whispered.

"I'm proud of us," Anna whispered back before kissing him, the two enjoying the moment knowing that things were going to escalate with the Seattle situation getting worse. They both firmly believed that Victoria was behind the Newborns and knew she wasn't going to back down until Anna and Jasper suffered the price of James' death. "We better get out there before Alice comes in and drags us out," Jasper told Anna who sighed. The two made their way downstairs where Alice was greeting people and socialising happily. "If it becomes too much, let me know," Anna told Jasper who nodded before noticing Carlisle motioning him over.

"Enjoy yourself, darling," Jasper whispered to Anna, kissing the side of her head before making his way over to Carlisle. She watched him walk away before turning to see Tyler and Lauren walking into the house, she knew Jasper would update her after. "Hey, we're graduates!" Tyler cheered as he hugged his best friend, Anna laughed at Tyler's happiness before she hugged Lauren. "Well, let's celebrate together," Anna told them before they moved to the space cleared for a dancefloor, the trio began dancing together laughing and having fun. Jasper heard Anna's laughter and felt her joy, his empathy focused on her to help him deal with the thirst.

Anna's mind felt woozy for a moment, she stepped to the side informing Tyler she needed some water before noticing Alice's distant expression making her rush over; Bella was not too far behind her with Jacob trailing her. "What did you see?" Bella asked Alice who swallowed and glanced at Anna. "I... need to talk to Colton," Alice spoke up but Jacob stopped her, "Why don't you talk to me?" Anna glared at Jacob, she had a real problem with the males competing for her sister's heart; both were obsessive and possessive. "I suggest you remove ─ your ─ arm before I do," Colton threatened as he appeared near them, Anna watching as Jacob lowered his arm.

"The decision's been made," Alice told them though her eyes were focused on Annabeth more than Bella. "What's going on? You're not going to Seattle?" Bella inquired while Anna clicked on to what had changed. "They're coming to Forks, aren't they?" Anna asked receiving a nod in return, Anna closed her eyes to steady her racing heart; truthfully, she was terrified of what was to come. Anna leads Alice, Colton, Bella, and Jacob into the back den where Edward, Jasper and Carlisle were previously discussing something. "How long?" Edward questioned her. "They'll be here in four days," Alice answered as Jasper held Anna's hand.

"This could turn into a blood bath," Carlisle warned them with a frown. "Who's behind it?" Edward asked Alice. "I didn't see anyone I recognize. Maybe one..." Alice trailed off as Edward peered into her mind. "I know his face. He's local, Riley Biers. He didn't start this," Edward spoke as Bella looked around at everyone. "Whoever is doing this is staying out of the action," Alice said. "They must be playing with the blind spots in your vision," Carlisle told her while Anna sighed, still firm about it being Victoria. "Either way, the army is coming," Jasper warned with Colton nodding in agreement, "And there aren't enough of us to protect the town."

"Hold up. What damn army?" Jacob asked gaining the room's attention, Edward shared a look with Carlisle shaking his head no to signify that he didn't want Jacobs' help but Carlisle looked at Anna who raised a brow and he nodded; he was in charge of the family, not Edward. "Newborns. Our kind," Carlisle told Jacob pulling Embry and Quil into the conversation. "What are they after?" Embry asked them. "They were passing around Anna's scent. A blue blouse," Alice answered him making the three shifters tense, an imprint in danger was something the Pack needed to know about. "They're after Anna?" Embry asked next feeling worried for the girl.

"And Bella," Edward added as he looked from Anna to Bella who nodded to his words. Truthfully, they'd target Bella to get to Anna therefore, Bella was in danger too. "What the hell does this mean?" Jacob asked, his anger getting the best of him. "It means an ugly fight. With lives lost," Carlisle answered him truthfully. "Alright... we're in," Jacob told them, the look on Edward's face showed his disapproval of working with Jacob. "No. You'll get yourselves killed, no way," Bella denied immediately while Anna bit her lip, it wasn't Bella or Anna's choice to make; it was the pack's choice to fight. "I wasn't asking for permission. Besides, Anna's an imprint, her protection is an absolute law," Jacob told Bella.

"Edward?" Bella questioned him but the vampire realised they'd need the help. "It means more protection for you," Edward replied to her, Annabeth rolling her eyes at Edward's lack of acknowledgement that she too was in danger. "Jacob?" Bella's last-ditch effort was futile, Jacob was gonna fight. "Do you believe Sam will agree to... an understanding?" Carlisle asked to be certain. "As long as we kill some vampires," Jacob answered him. "Jasper?" Carlisle turned to him, Jasper looking from Anna to Jacob before looking back at Carlisle. "They'll give us the numbers. And the newborns won't know they even exist. That'll give us an edge," Jasper expressed as Anna leaned into him.

"We'll need to coordinate," Carlisle told Jacob who nodded in agreement. "Carlisle, they'll get hurt," Bella spoke up making Anna roll her eyes, they all could get hurt but it's their lives; Shifters protect the land from Vampires, that's their purpose. "We'll all need some training. Fighting newborns requires knowledge that Jasper and Colton have," Carlisle stated, the two mentioned vampires shared a look and nodded. "You're welcome to join us, alright?" Carlisle said turning to Jacob. "Name the time and place," Jacob told him before Anna left the room, she headed straight to Jasper's room to process everything and stop herself from blowing up on Bella and Edward who seemed to be in their own world.

"Darling?" Jasper's soothing dulcet tone made Anna shiver, she lifted her head from the pillows and looked towards the door where Jasper stood. "I hate this... the war, the threat and the way Edward and Bella are so self-righteous in their minds," Anna practically whimpered to Jasper who frowned. He knew how much the rift between the twins was affecting Anna, she was suffering while Bella barely acknowledged it; she seemed almost happy with the distance between the sisters. "I know, darling... I promise you, after this battle... me and you, we'll leave Forks for a while and travel," Jasper told her as he sat down next to her.

"I'll introduce you to my friends in Ireland, Peter and Charlotte. You'll like them," Jasper told her as she moved to rest her head in his lap, "We'll see the rolling meadows of Ireland. Maybe check out London or even see Paris like you've always wanted." Anna smiled fondly at Jasper, she truly felt blessed to have him in her life. Jasper ran his fingers through Anna's curls as she closed her eyes, she began humming to herself as Jasper leaned back against the headboard and looked out into the forest. Jasper was excited for his future with Annabeth, his life was nothing without her and he'd spend eternity proving that. Neither of them was aware of the blood-red eyes watching them closely before they took off into the night.

Chapter Text

Anna opened her eyes slowly, she felt too comfortable to even consider getting out of bed. She felt Jasper's cool fingers brush lightly down her back under her shirt, she knew he'd be reading considering Vampires don't sleep. "Are you sure you'll be able to handle being around the wolves training them?" Anna asked Jasper after a few minutes more of silence. "I'm more concerned about you seeing the other side of me," Jasper replied to her with a worried expression. "I love all versions of you, Jasper Whitlock," Anna told him as she moved up to look down at him, "I'm more concerned about my... excitement seeing you in your Major mindset."

Jasper smirked at her words, "Is that right, ma'am?" Anna shivered at the low tone before leaning down closer to his lips, "Absolutely, Major Whitlock." Jasper slammed his lips against Anna's, the seductive tone made the title he once loathed all the more enticing to him. It never felt right coming from Maria but hearing Annabeth call him Major Whitlock made his dead heart almost skip a beat. Anna moaned against his lips, letting Jasper flip them over so he was hovering above her. "I love you, Annabeth Swan," Jasper whispered against her lips, the look in his eyes showed the pure honesty of his words. "I love you, Jasper Whitlock," Anna replied proving she loved all versions of him.

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Anna noticed her phone ringing after Jasper headed downstairs to hunt with Colton and talk about their plans for training, Anna answered the phone and furrowed her brows at the unknown number calling her. "Hello?" Anna greeted cautiously once she had answered. " Hello Annabeth ," The female replied making Anna sit up in confusion. "Who is this?" Anna asked as she climbed out of the bed, pulling on her jeans while holding her phone between her ear and shoulder. " We've had an encounter before but let me introduce myself, I'm Nadia Clave ," Nadia spoke through the phone, a conniving grin evident in her tone.

"What do you want, Nadia?" Anna asked cautiously, she didn't want to anger the woman. " To offer you an opportunity ," Nadia responded as Anna readjusted the shirt she was wearing. "Which is?" Anna asked after clearing her throat, she frowned at the response. " You meet me on the road without your cowboy and I'll release your precious friend, Tyler or I'll kill him ," Nadia told her before hanging up, Anna swallowed carefully as she thought about what she had just been told. Anna finished getting dressed and left a note for Jasper before heading to her bike, climbing on and starting the engine, she knew exactly what to do.

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Annabeth raced to the location without further hesitation, she wasn't gonna let Tyler die because of her world; she knew he'd have questions afterwards but she was fine with it as long as he was okay in the process. When she rolled up to the road she last saw Nadia, the woman was standing there with two others who were holding a staggering and delirious Tyler making Anna angry. "Okay, I'm here," Anna said once she had taken the helmet off, she climbed off of her bike and stepped forward. Tyler raised his head with a frown, "No... you shouldn't have come." Anna sent her best friend a sympathetic smile.

"You do understand that I have no idea how to do this nor do I know if there will be consequences for bringing your mate back," Anna warned Nadia hoping she'd listen. "Well, it's a good thing I do. Now, you better hope no one knows because poor Tyler will pay the price," Nadia warned and one of the people holding Tyler smirked as she tauntingly leaned in closer to him, sniffing his hair with her eyes focused on Anna. "All right... tell me what I have to do," Anna said with her eyes locked on Nadia who grinned maliciously. They moved into the woods, Anna dragging her bike off of the road to make sure they were hidden.

"This belonged to Damon along with this," Nadia spoke as she held out a ring before placing a vial of venom into her hand, "You will know the words as you do the spell." Nadia stepped back from Anna who looked up at her in disbelief but seeing Tyler, she knew she'd have to do something. Anna turned away from them and focused on the rising full moon that shone into the clearing, her eyes turning down to look at the ring and glass vial before closing her eyes and enclosing her fingers around them. Is this a risk worth taking? Magnolia's voice echoed through her mind, Anna believed it was.

The shine of the moon strengthened as Anna's blue eyes overlapped with grey, her palms began shining a similar mist of grey before she opened her fists and the two items lifted into the air; hovering above her palms. Anna began chanting under her breath in a language none of the witnesses could decipher, Tyler's eyes widened at the sight before him. The wind picked up as the soil beneath them began to shake, Anna's body was still as a statue but her skin became pale as more time passed. Nadia and her companions had to cover their eyes from the brightness of the moon mixed with the dirt being thrown through the air.

Suddenly, a hand broke through the soil as the vial of venom exploded into dust that swirled in the air like a tornado before landing in the palm of the hand; seeping into the skin. Nadia's eyes widened as another hand broke through the soil, the ring glowed for a moment before soaring onto the new hand's finger. The wind began to ease as the moon became its natural dull state, Anna's eyes returned to their blue tone as the body crawled their way out of the soil to reveal a man with brunette hair and ochre eyes, Nadia rushed towards him and cupped his face. "Damon?" Nadia whispered. "Nadia, my love?" Damon responded before hugging her.

Anna smiled softly at the two before she felt light-headed, she dropped to her knees before wiping under her eyes to see blood leaking rather than tears. "Your sister loved you, Nadia. I wished you realised how much," Anna said as she looked up at her great aunt, the vampire turned to her and gasped at the sickly appearance that happened as a result of the spell. Tyler rushed over to Anna and placed his hands on her face, "Hey... are you okay? You're gonna be okay, right?" Anna nodded as she was getting weaker by the second. "We're done here," Nadia said as she helped Damon to his feet, the two moving to leave as Tyler helped Anna to her feet.

"Nadia!" Anna shouted gaining the nomad's attention, "If you ever come into my life threatening my family, friends or home again... I'll do worse than Marcus or the Volturi." Nadia raised a brow at that while the others watched the scene. "Magnolia was your sister but me... I'm a distant descendant who holds no compassion for you and your coven; so don't piss me off because I will make you and your mate pay. Is that understood?" Anna asked with a stern tone which Nadia knew meant she wasn't playing around. "I understand," Nadia told her before she and her coven left.

Anna coughed and leaned forward as she did, she stumbled but Tyler steadied her. "I need to get you to the hospital," Tyler said but Anna shook her head immediately. "Jasper... only Jasper," Anna whimpered as pain struck through her body making her collapse, a rustle in the bushes pulled Tyler's attention; his eyes widened seeing a large grey wolf approaching them. "P-Paul..." Anna whispered as she looked towards the large wolf. "It's okay, Ty... he means no harm," Anna assured Tyler who was watching in amazement as the wolf shifted into a person, though Tyler turned away at the fact Paul was nude. "Bag..." Anna told Tyler who turned to the bag on the bike, opening it to see spare shorts.

Paul caught the shorts thrown his way and quickly put them on before moving to lift Anna, "Embry will grab your bike. Let's get you to Jasper." Anna coughed before looking towards Tyler, "I'll be okay... Jared will take you home. We'll talk about it all soon." Tyler was hesitant to leave his best friend but understood that Anna's health was more important than his need to understand everything. Jared stepped up to Tyler and nodded at Anna who smiled before resting her head against Paul's chest; Embry grabbed Anna's bike and began pushing it to the pack house. "You'll be okay..." Paul assured Anna who smiled softly before closing her eyes.

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Jasper had a bad feeling as he read Anna's note, he was paranoid knowing the dangers that threatened her life. And when she didn't answer her phone, he felt more scared than before however, before he and the family could go searching for her; Paul approached the house with Anna in his arms. Carlisle took notice of her extremely pale skin slick with a layer of sweat though her body seemed to be shivering, Paul's natural body heat was keeping her warm. "I found her in the woods, she was like this when I got there. Had a human boy with her who seemed panicked but we caught the scent of nomads in the area," Paul explained to them.

"It's mana exhaustion," Carlisle said with a frown, he knew that Anna wouldn't be able to use magic for quite some time. "It had to have been Nadia..." Rosalie spoke up with a saddened expression, she didn't like seeing Anna like this. "Which would mean she used necromancy to bring Nadia's mate back," Colton added as they knew the story from Anna. "Tyler would've been used as bait," Jasper said as he took Anna from Paul's arms, looking down at his mate with a defeated expression; no magic meant she was more vulnerable to the newborns and Victoria, this meant she wasn't as safe as she was before.

"She'll need rest, plenty of fluids and food," Carlisle informed Jasper knowing there wasn't much else he could do for Mana Exhaustion. "You'll have to keep an eye on her for the next twenty-four hours," Carlisle added as he looked at Jasper, the southern vampire nodded before turning and heading into the house with his mate in his arms. Bella watched as Jasper carried Anna upstairs, she frowned to herself as she realised how much danger her little sister was actually in. The threats of this world were endless but while she had been trapped worried about her own immortality with Edward, she hadn't stopped to consider what her sister was going through; and the guilt was only beginning.

Chapter Text

Emmett is flung through the air, flailing in what seems to be slow motion before he lands hard on his back; He immediately springs back up to face Jasper who had been the one to throw him. "Again!" Emmett demanded with an amused smirk on his face before he and Jasper rushed each other again in a spar. Anna watched from the back of her and her sister's truck, her legs crossed as she held Jasper's jacket tight around her. It had been two days since Anna's encounter with Nadia and she still had no access to her magic which was frustrating as each day came closer to the battle ahead.

She had already spoken with Tyler about what had happened that night, to say that Tyler was shocked by the supernatural would be an understatement but once he accepted it, he swore not to tell anyone and pretend he knew nothing; And as far as he's concerned, Anna was still his best friend. But it was obvious how concerned everyone was for Anna who was practically human without her magic and knowing that Riley was coming for her worried everyone including Bella who was finally worried about losing her sister.

Anna turns her head to see Edward and Bella pull up in Edwards Volvo, she turns away from the two as Sam and the other members of the pack approach the clearing. "They don't trust us enough to be in their human forms," Edward informed the coven as Jasper helped Anna off of the truck, he had tried his best not to hover around Anna too much but thankfully for him, Anna had been pretty clingy in her sick state which was adorable to him. Anna walked towards Paul who stepped forward allowing her to rest her hand between his ears and scratch his head with a smile. "They came. That's what matters," Carlisle spoke with a nod.

"Jake..." Bella spoke up gaining Jacob's attention, the red-brown wolf attempted a smile but a sharp look from Sam forced Jacob back into a more focused position. "Will you translate?" Carlisle asked Edward who nodded before Carlisle stepped forward allowing Sam's focus to be on him. "Jasper has experience with newborns. He'll teach us how to defeat them," Carlisle told Sam as Colton had already told them he would fight in the battle alongside the pack but wouldn't train them due to his history with shifters. "They want to know how the 'newborns' differ from us," Edward said to Carlisle on behalf of Sam.

"They're a great deal stronger than us because their own human blood lingers in their tissue. Our kind is never more physically powerful... than in our first several months of this life," Carlisle explained to the pack who were listening intently, Anna still stood by Paul's side knowing he was still uneased by her Mana Exhaustion. Carlisle nodded to Jasper to take over but Anna took notice of Jasper's unease with the attention, she ruffled the top of Sam's head before moving towards Jasper and standing with him in hopes of easing him; she knew he was concerned about a side of him showing he spent years taming.

"Carlisle's right," Jasper began as he stood tall with his hands behind his back, "That's why they are created. A newborn army doesn't need thousands like a human army. And no human army could stand against them." Anna admired the way Jasper held himself in the moment, she bit the inside of her cheek as she stood with Rosalie. "The two most important things to remember are, first... Never let them get their arms around you. They'll crush you instantly," Jasper warned the wolves, "The second... Never go for the obvious kill. They'll be expecting that. And you will lose." Jasper turned to Emmett with a smirk, "Emmett? Don't hold back."

"Not in my nature," Emmett replied to Jasper with a smirk, it was obvious both males enjoyed these spars. Emmett charges Jasper with impossible speed, but Jasper is a virtual blur. Emmett lunges several times, his strong arms grasping at the air due to Jasper's more agile manoeuvres. Jasper stops long enough to say, "Never lose focus. One more thing... Never turn your back on your enemy." They all watched as Emmett lunged again with similar results until he suddenly froze ─ Jasper had him from behind, his teeth an inch from Emmett's throat. Jasper's focus turned to Anna who smiled at him, he noticed she was impressed not scared.

The family take turns sparring with Jasper, Alice being successful and outshining him due to her ability to see his moves. Edward uses his telepathic ability to read Carlisle's thoughts during their spar managing to overpower his father and slam him into the ground. "Focus on speed, agility, keep your opponent off guard--" Jasper says as he watches Edward and Alice spar, their fight was incredible due to their abilities proving they were an equal match in battle, "--Use their momentum against them." Anna and Bella stood together as Jacob stepped up between the two, Bella leaned into his side running her fingers through his fur.

"All of this... because of me," Anna said with a blank expression, "Because of us." Bella and Anna shared a look before Anna focused back on Jasper, Bella turned to Jacob. "It's gonna be a hundred times worse than this, right?" Bella asked Jacob, it was silent for a moment before Jacob nuzzled into Bella. "We're done for the day," Edward spoke up before appearing beside Bella, his expression was calm but firm. Jacob eyed Edward and Bella before he rejoined the pack as they retreated into the forest. Anna nodded to Paul before he left, playfully pushing Jared as they disappeared into the distance. Anna made her way over to Jasper as Colton walked off, she frowned as he turned to her.

"I feel useless... there has to be something more that I can do?" Anna asked Jasper who understood how she felt. "Yours and Bella's scent alone will distract the newborns. Their hunting instinct will take over, drive them crazy," Jasper answered her as Bella leaned against the Volvo listening to the two as Edward spoke with Carlisle. "I just wish I was fighting by your side," Anna told him, Jasper smiled as he took her hand and lifted it to his lips. "Hey, how do you know so much about this?" Bella asked, her curiosity peaking. "I didn't have quite the same upbringing as my adopted siblings," Jasper answered her before turning back to Anna.

Jasper was hoping to avoid his past but knew Bella wouldn't back down and he knew that Anna needed to know; Maria was still out there and could be a very real threat. Jasper turned to the twins and pulled up his sleeve, Anna knew about the bite marks from their more intimate nights but the sight was new to Bella who took a second to recognise the bites in his pale skin. "Those bites are like ours," Bella said as she looked from her wrist to Anna's shoulder which was covered by the jacket she wore. "Battle scars," Jasper said as he covered the bites again, "All the training the Confederate Army gave me... was useless against the newborns. Still, I never lost a fight."

Anna looked up at Jasper with raised brows, "My boyfriend was in the Confederate Army? Yikes..." Jasper chuckled as he grabbed her hand and interlocked their fingers, "I was a different man then, in a different time with a very controlling homestead. My mother and sister's safety was my priority and to protect them from my father's hand, I abided by his rule." Anna nodded at that, her heart aching for the scenarios that formed in her mind; she never expected Jasper to have grown up in an abusive household. "This happened during the Civil War?" Bella asked knowing Jasper wouldn't want to delve into his childhood with her ─ that was something he could share with Anna privately.

The three began walking at a slow pace, "I was the youngest Major in the Texas Cavalry. All without having seen any real battle." Anna leaned into his side as he spoke, she noticed the slight pride in Jasper's words but she liked to think it was the accomplishment itself rather than the cause he fought for. "Until..." Bella questioned. "Until I met a certain Immortal, Maria," Jasper answered though his eyes darkened at the mention of the woman. "I was riding back to Galveston after evacuating a column of women and children when I saw her," Jasper told them but it was clear he was off in the memories of those days.

"I immediately offered her my aid, but she had other intentions with my presence," Jasper said to the twins. "Maria was creating an army?" Anna inquired pulling Jasper from his memories. "They were very common in the South. There were constant brutal battles for territory," Jasper answered her before he continued, "Maria won them all. She was smart, careful, and she had me." Anna furrowed her brows at the sense of Deja vu, she remembered the night of her attack almost a year ago but most of the memories of that night had become blurry and practically unattainable; Grandma Rose had claimed it was due to her creating bonds with the Coven.

"I was her second in command. My ability to control emotions served her well. I trained her newborns, an endless occupation since she never let them live beyond their first year," Jasper told the two who caught on to what he was saying causing Anna to squeeze his hand, she was angry with Maria and what the bitch put Jasper through. "It was my job to dispose of them. I could feel everything they felt," Jasper added as they stopped walking, "I thought what Maria and I had was love. But I was her puppet. She pulled the strings. I didn't know there was another way until I met Alice and Colton." Jasper smiled as he remembered the day he had met his two closest friends.

"Now, she had seen me coming, of course. And told me that I had a promising future," Jasper said as he turned to Anna who smiled. "My apologies for making you wait, Major," Anna told him with a teasing grin, Jasper placed his fingers under her chin, "You're forgiven, Darling." Jasper leaned down and kissed Anna softly before pulling away. "I don't know what I'd become without you," Jasper told her, Anna placed her hand on the side of his face, "You never have to be that again." She gave him another kiss as Bella smiled, she was happy for her sister. It was at that moment that Bella truly realised that her sister was happy.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Later that night, Bella had woken up from a nightmare that had alerted her of what her little sister had been saying all along. "It's Victoria. Anna was right," Bella told the family as they stood in the living room of the Cullen household, the blonde stood in the arms of Jasper with a frown. "It was Jasper's story that put the pieces together... Victoria is using Riley to create her army," Bella continued before making eye contact with Anna who nodded with a small reassuring smile. "We need to make a plan," Carlisle said as he looked towards Anna and Jasper. "Victoria wants me, she'll hunt me down or even Bella to get to me," Anna spoke up with a stressed sigh.

"We can organise with the pack to use their scent to cover both of yours and move the battle away from the town to prevent any casualties," Carlisle told the twins, both girls sighed. "I'll tell Dad that Bella and I are going camping with Jacob," Anna said, the others agreeing knowing that Charlie would trust Anna's words more than Bella's after everything that had happened. "For now we continue training. We need to be prepared," Colton spoke up from beside a worried Alice. "It's easy work, huh?" Anna teased easing the tension in the room. Truthfully, Anna was dreading the fight, she knew something was gonna happen; something bad.

Chapter Text

After Anna and Bella dragged their scent through the forest towards the clearing that would prove to be an advantage for the Cullens in the battle, Jacob and Paul had shown up to carry the twins up to the campsite to cover their scents hopefully; including Anna and Paul having to step in when Edward and Jacob tried going each other. Jasper had full trust in Paul purely because Anna trusted him, the vampire nodded to Paul before watching him go. Anna and Jasper had already discussed that he needed to be in the field fighting, despite his hesitation, Jasper was willing to let Edward protect them alongside Jacob and Seth.

They had organised everything with Charlie who was fine with the girls camping considering he had plans to go fishing which meant he'd be safe; that had eased the twins. And Anna had to deal with Bella's complaints about Edward's lack of intimacy with her which amused the blonde who could tell that her sister was sexually frustrated, not that Anna would ever know that feeling because she and Jasper are intimate quite a lot; she was certain that Charlie would have a heart attack if he knew. But she pushed that aside as she pulled on some gloves and a warm jacket, her mind was racing about everything that would be happening.

"Darling?" Jasper noticed the look in Anna's eyes, the uncertainty surrounding her made him more worried than he already was. "What is it?" Jasper asked her as he placed his hand against her face, looking into her eyes as she took in a shaky breath. "I'm okay... just a little uneasy. Worried about everyone," Anna told him before wrapping her arms around him and leaning her head against his chest, Jasper wrapped his arms around her and rested his head on hers. "We'll get through this," Jasper whispered to her, he kissed the top of her head before pulling back enough to kiss her on the lips.

"I love you, Jasper Whitlock," Anna whispered against Jasper's lips. "I love you, Annabeth Swan," Jasper whispered back before he pressed against her lips. The outcome of the fight was unknown to them so Anna wanted to be prepared for anything, she had already ─ unknown to everyone ─ written letters in case everything went wrong. She tried to keep her mind positive but she knew the feeling in her chest was screaming at her that something was gonna go wrong. "Everything will be okay, Anna. You'll see," Jasper told her in hopes of reassuring her, he knew she could play the tough act but her emotions he felt betrayed her; he knew she was worried and scared.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Anna relaxed in Paul's arms, she watched the sky pass by as they headed up the mountain with Jacob ahead of them carrying Bella. "What's going on with you, Anna?" Paul asked Anna softly, he had picked up on her chemo-signals that screamed fear and sorrow. "Just worried about everyone fighting," Anna told him, she was necessarily lying to him but she wasn't being as truthful as she played. "We'll be okay. And don't worry, I'll look out for your mate," Paul told her with an indifferent tone but Anna still appreciated it. "Jasper already told me that he'd look out for you," Anna said with a smile, her boyfriend and brother figure getting along made her happy.

Paul didn't reply to that but she knew he appreciated the backup, Anna was just hoping that the bad feeling in her chest was only due to the battle in itself. They reached the campsite and Paul headed back down, his action blocking out further attraction to Bella or Anna's scent. Anna climbed into the tent and sat down with Bella as Edward was talking to Jacob and Seth. "Are you okay?" Bella asked her sister, her worried expression was something Anna hadn't seen in a long time. "I don't know, to be honest... I just... hope that everyone will be okay," Anna answered her before noticing Bella's frown.

"You know I may be angry with certain decisions you've made, but at the end of the day, you're still my older sister and I love you forever and always," Anna expressed to Bella, she wasn't sure what may happen and while she couldn't forgive Bella or Edwards actions; she could still admit that nothing else had changed, Bella was her sister and she still loved her with all of her heart. "I understand your point of view... I love you too, forever and always," Bella replied before the sisters hugged, Anna closed her eyes cherishing this hug as she came to terms with what her fate may be in this battle; she was ready.

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Anna slept the night away cuddled up with her sister and Jacob behind Bella for extra warmth, she hadn't paid any attention to the competing trio as it wasn't her problem to deal with. In the early morning, Anna was the first to wake up, she looked over to Edward who was pouting at the sight of his girlfriend snug in Jacob's arms. "What's more important to you, Edward? Your petty jealousy or Bella's warmth?" Anna asked him as she sat up and pulled Jasper's jacket on to stay warm. "You're still mad at me," Edward said back to her ignoring her questions. "Damn straight I am, Edward. You are not the Coven leader... you made everyone suffer because you suffered," Anna told him calmly.

Edward looked up at Anna and stayed silent, he knew she was right and there was no arguing that point. "Magnolia told me that Bella was your true mate... But either way, you didn't know that when you chose her and then you left her. You fed into her obsessive behaviour and then you left her in the woods vulnerable... I will still hurt you for that, Edward Cullen. I'm still very, very angry with you," Anna explained to him with a stern tone that truthfully would've caused anxiety in human Edward. "It will take a long time for me to forgive you. So you better be very careful with your choices," Anna added as she felt Bella move, she turned to her older sister to see Jacob already awake and smirking.

"Don't you smirk smugly, I'm fuming with you Jacob Black," Anna sneered causing Jacob to drop the smirk. "Bella has strictly told you that she does not love you the way you love her. She may love you, Jacob but she isn't in love with you and you need to accept that. She chose Edward and she will always choose Edward so you learn to accept that before you destroy yourself and lose a chance with another who will love you back," Anna expressed to Jacob before she reached for the thermostat bottle containing the hot chocolate that Jasper had made for her before heading up the mountain. She poured some into the lid while Jacob and Edward shared a small glance before processing Annabeth's words to them.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

The fight had begun. Anna paced anxiously near Seth who watched over his Imprint Sister while listening to the pack link of the battle. "Jacob just got there. He's good," Edward told the sisters, Anna nodded but stopped pacing at the shift in the air. "What is it?" Edward asked her noticing the way she looked around the area. "He found us... I feel Victoria," Anna told him as she looked down the mountain into a small clearing where Riley Biers approached with a sadistic smile. "Riley, listen to me. Victoria's just using you, to distract me. But she knows I'll kill you," Edward warned as he stood protectively in front of Bella and Anna; he wouldn't let either of them get hurt.

"In fact, she'll be glad she doesn't have to deal with you anymore," Edward continued putting doubt into Riley's head. Victoria emerged from the woods, her eyes trained on Anna more than anyone else; the blonde stared right back at her almost tauntingly in a similar way that James had that first day they encountered each other and it was obvious that Victoria noticed due to the way her glare deepened. "Don't listen, Riley. I told you about their mind tricks," Victoria told Riley who turned to her, Anna rolled her eyes at the desperation in Riley's eyes. "I can read her mind, so I know what she thinks of you," Edward told Riley. "He's lying," Victoria spoke up using her manipulation to get her way.

"She only created you and this army to avenge her true mate, James. It's the only thing she cares about. Not you," Edward continued as Bella stayed close by him, Anna keeping her eyes on Victoria knowing Edward could handle Riley alone. "There's only you. You know that," Victoria said as she turned to Riley, her eyes soft in fake care for him. "Think about it. You're from Forks, you know the area. That's the only reason she chose you. She doesn't love you," Edward tried to reason with Riley to prevent a fight, he didn't want Riley to be caught in the crossfire but Anna knew Victoria's manipulative words would win. "Riley... don't let him do this to us. You know I love you," Victoria told Riley.

"You're dead," Riley sneered at Edward moving to rush Edward but Seth intercepted the attack and landed on Riley, taking a chunk of Riley's hand. Riley roars in fury and pain as Seth circles back for another attack. Victoria turned to run when Anna stepped forward, "You'll never get another chance like this." Victoria stopped and turned to Anna who stepped forward, her mind opened to Edward; Grab Bella and protect her with your life. Do not defy me, it's all I ask. Edward was hesitant as he heard her words clear as day in his head, he had already angered her enough; defying her words would only piss her off and he needed to earn her forgiveness, so he grabbed Bella's hand and backed away slowly.

"You want me... You want Jasper to feel the pain you felt when he killed James," Anna taunted as she prepared for Victoria to lunge, anger blazing in Victoria's eyes. "When he tore his head from his shoulders, ripped him to pieces. When we turned him to ash," Anna smirked with sadistic pride, "When he turned him into nothing." Victoria finally screamed in anger, she lunged towards Anna and her eyes overlapped with grey as she moved towards her. Edward and Bella watched in awe as Anna grabbed a hold of Victoria's arm and side, throwing her back into a tree which sent a further rage through Victoria.

Meanwhile, Riley pushes Seth off of him into a cliff, and sharp shards of rock fall around Bella as Edward moves to fight Riley. Riley and Edward move like a blur as they attempt to rip each other apart. Seth ─ injured ─ stands as protectively as he can in front of Bella as Victoria gets the upper hand on Anna and throws her into the cliff. Anna groans from the impact, pushing up and punching Victoria across the face; Her mana levels may have been low but she had enough mana strength to fight. Victoria stumbled, she hadn't known about Anna's true power but she wasn't backing down; her rage wouldn't let her even if she wanted to.

Victoria managed to get the upper hand on Anna, she flipped the blonde over her shoulder and held her head back revealing her neck and shoulder. Bella's eyes turned from Edward who had managed to overpower Riley to Anna as her scream rippled through the air causing the mountain itself to shake. Everyone down on the field froze from the sheer power that split through the environment; Newborns dropped to their knees holding their ears as the ringing caused them pain. Jasper's dead heart clenched as he looked to the mountain knowing exactly who that was, he turned his head to Alice whose eyes had widened in fear; The snow, the blood... her last breath.

Edward looked up at Victoria and Anna, his eyes widened as Anna smiled softly at him before she focused what little energy she had in her body sending Victoria flying into the cliffside. Seth managed to sink his teeth into Riley's neck out of pure rage for the harm to his Imprint Sister while the wolves down in the main battle also fought with newfound rage blazing through them. Riley pleaded for Victoria's help but the woman merely ignored him as Seth ripped his head off, the redhead turned to Bella as Anna dropped against the snow; her blood tainting the white environment causing Victoria's focus to reduce.

Bella rushed over to her sister who was turning pale from the loss of blood, Bella grabbed Anna's hand as Edward fought against Victoria. Anna's eyes focused on Bella who had tears streaming down her face as her sister bled, "What... What can I do?" Bella applied pressure to Anna's bleeding shoulder, the wound looked less like a bite mark and more like a dog had torn through her shoulder; Victoria wanted her dead not turned. "You'll...be...okay," Anna whispered to her sister before looking towards the sky as small snowflakes dropped from the sky. "No, no, no... What about Charlie? What about Jasper and Paul? What about Tyler and me?... you can't..." Bella cried out.

Edward finally managed to pummel Victoria into the ground, he manoeuvred himself behind her and ripped into her neck with his teeth, tearing her head off in the process. The pack and Cullen Coven fought harshly against the newborns below, Jasper was in a rage as he fought without caring about the consequences, he didn't want to know what Alice saw; he didn't want to know that his mate was dead ─ that he had failed her again. Paul felt the bond between him and Anna snap, his wolf howled in agony as it did alerting the pack of what had happened; Jacob's own heart breaking. Edward looks over to the sisters with a frown, Seth howls to the sky as Anna's last breath leaves her lips.

Chapter Text

Edward picked up Anna's body, he noticed Bella's distraught expression along with the dazed look in her eyes. The silence that surrounded them as they walked down the mountain was deafening but nothing prepared them for the response of the others. Bella's heart broke when she saw Jasper turn to them, his face broke into sorrow and the remaining Swan twin was convinced that if Jasper was still human he would've wailed in pain with tears. Jasper took Anna from Edward's arms, dropping to his knees as he caressed her face and blocked out everyone else. Paul ─ still in his wolf form ─ whimpered as he stared at the sight of his Imprint dead in her soulmate's arms.

No one knew what to do in regards to Anna but they knew the Volturi was coming; at least, Jane was accompanied by Alec, Felix and Demetri. "How long?" Edward asked Alice breaking the broken silence. "A few minutes. Maybe ten," Alice answered in a shaky tone, Colton grabbed her hand comfortingly. "They timed their arrival well," Rosalie sneered though her eyes had yet to leave Jasper and Anna. "Probably hoping the newborns took a few of us out," Emmett told her. Edward looked towards the fire and spotted a young girl standing there, "What's she doing here?" Esme stepped forward to protect the young girl, "We offered her safe haven if she stopped fighting, she took it."

"The pack needs to leave. The Volturi won't honour a truce with the werewolves," Carlisle said before looking towards Anna and Jasper, his dead heart hurt at the sight. Jasper was staring blankly at his mate, his mind and emotions were numb as he continued to stroke her cheek waiting for her to open her eyes as the others dealt with the surrounding environment. Jasper hadn't even noticed the mini fight which resulted in Jacob getting hurt, he was only focused on the woman in his arms trying to sense even the slightest bit of life in her. "Should we move Anna?" Esme asked Carlisle after the wolves had left. "I don't think Jasper will let us," Alice said with a sad expression.

"It appears you've done our work for us," Jane spoke as she approached, her companions stood behind her. "Impressive. I've never seen a coven escape an assault of this magnitude intact," Jane continued before her eyes landed on Anna's body, "Almost escape, I guess." Rosalie glared at Jane's amused expression at the loss of Annabeth in the battle. "It appears we missed an entertaining fight," Alec spoke up from beside his sister. "Yes. It's not often we're rendered unnecessary," Jane voiced though anyone could tell they were mocking the coven. "If you'd arrived a half hour ago, you would've fulfilled your purpose," Edward told her with a glare on his face, Bella was still crying silently beside him.

"Pity," Jane said before noticing Bree Tanner standing off to the side, "You missed one." Bree watched fearfully, looking from the blonde woman to the family that offered her asylum after being cursed. "We offered her asylum in exchange for her surrender," Carlisle informed her as Esme tried to keep Bree out of view and safe. "That wasn't yours to offer," Jane sneered at Carlisle before looking at Bree, "Why did you come?" Before Bree could answer, Jane activated her power causing Bree to scream out in pain. "They came to destroy us ─ to kill Anna," Esme told Jane in hopes of protecting the young girl but Jane ignored the woman, clearly enjoying the torture.

"Who created you?" Jane asked next but the girl was in too much pain to say anything. "You don't need to do that. She'll tell you anything you want to know," Esme said with a distressed expression, she didn't like seeing Bree in pain. "I know," Jane said as Carlisle placed his hand on his wife's shoulder, Jane deactivated her power leaving Bree panting. "I don't know... Riley wouldn't tell us. He said our thoughts weren't safe," Bree told Jane, she just wanted a chance to live but Jane simply focused her power on the girl again. "Her name was Victoria. Perhaps you knew her," Edward snapped, between Anna's death and Bree's torture, he had enough of the Volturi Guard's games.

Bree's pain subsided as Jane turned to Edward with an innocent smile that unnerved everyone but her companions. "Edward," Carlisle spoke with a warning tone, "If the Volturi had knowledge of Victoria, they would've stopped her. Isn't that right, Jane?" Jane looked towards Carlisle and the air was tense and silent for a moment but it was that single moment that allowed Jasper to hear a faint shaky beat of a heart; slow enough that it was impossible to survive. "Of course," Jane said to Carlisle before signalling Felix who moved toward Bree. "She didn't know what she was doing. We'll take responsibility for her, give her a chance," Esme pleaded with them.

"The Volturi don't give second chances," Jane told Esme before looking towards Edward and Bella, "Keep that in mind. Caius will be interested to know that she's still human." Bella swallowed slowly before clearing her throat, "The date is set." Jane is ever so slightly taken aback by Bella's confidence, the presence reminding her of the blonde lying in Jasper's arms. "Take care of that, Felix. I'd like to go home," Jane spoke but as Felix went to step towards Bree, a grey mist appeared protectively in front of her stunning everyone. Felix stepped back from the strange presence but Jane knew who it was, Edward furrowed his brows hearing Jane's thoughts; he turned to Anna and focused on her heart ─ after a long moment, it thumped softly.

"It seems to me someone doesn't want you to harm her," Edward spoke as Esme pulled Bree to stand between her and Carlisle. "So it seems your loss is complicated," Jane said with gritted teeth, she had been keen to inform Aro of Anna's death but knowing the possibility that she was still alive prevented that. "Felix," Jane called him back to her, he was clearly upset about not being able to kill Bree. "Until next time," Jane said as she glanced at Anna before she and her companions left. Carlisle rushed over to Anna and Jasper as the grey mist disappeared, "Her magic must be keeping her alive but I don't know how long that will last." Jasper looked up at Carlisle, "What can I do?"

"Turn her," Bella said catching everyone's attention, they looked towards Bella with slight hesitation but Bella's determined expression showed she wouldn't back down. "I know it's not what you two planned but she's holding on and I'll deal with her anger if there is any," Bella told them, she sniffled and looked directly at Jasper who seemed hesitant himself. "Trust me, Jasper. This is what she'd want," Bella whispered to him as Edward looked at Carlisle. "Maybe Carlisle should--" Jasper cut Edward off with a shake of his head, "I promised her that it'd be me. Only me." Jasper stood up with her in his arms, "I'll take her home... just..." Carlisle nodded knowing he wanted to be alone.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Jasper laid Anna's body down on his bed, he paced for a moment before turning back to her; he wouldn't lose her. Jasper grabbed Anna's wrist and lifted it close to his mouth, he kissed her wrist gently before sinking his teeth into her skin letting the venom enter her system. Jasper pulled back and placed her hand on the bed, he closed his eyes for a moment before he approached his drawers. Jasper pulled out a yellow sundress that belonged to Anna, he put it aside before grabbing other clothes for her as Rosalie knocked on the door. "Esme and I can do that, Jasper. Take a moment. Carlisle wants to talk to you," Rosalie told him as she placed her hand on his shoulder.

Jasper was hesitant to leave Anna's side but he had already done what he could, so trusting his mate in his sister's capable hands, he made his way downstairs where Carlisle stood with Emmett and Colton. Rosalie, however, made her way into the room as Esme walked in with a bowl of warm water and a couple of towels. The two women worked together to clean the blood and dirt from Annabeth's skin, both trying their best to stay strong. Rosalie changed Anna into the yellow sundress before she brushed her hair, "She didn't want this so early..." Esme frowned as she placed her hand on Rosalie's shoulders, "Everything happens for a reason."

Once the two were done, Rosalie pulled a thin blanket over Anna's body hoping to convince herself that Anna was simply sleeping and she'd be awake the next morning. Esme headed straight to Bree and reassured the young girl that she was indeed safe and they'd help her with her new life; Rosalie was keen on taking the young teen under her wing. The house was silent as they all prepared to wait the agonising two to three days for Anna to wake up but of course, they held concerns due to her magic; they had no idea how she'd respond to the venom of what may happen. Jasper sat on the couch in his room watching the forest awaiting for his mate to open her eyes.

Meanwhile, Bella had convinced Charlie that Anna and Jasper had gone away for a small holiday to celebrate graduation and with Grandma Rose's help, he held no doubts in their words. Grandma Rose had informed them that she didn't know what the outcome would be but she was more certain than everyone else that Anna would wake up. She had been in contact with the spirits in the veil and the sprites lurking in the forests, all had informed her that Anna's survival was in the high nineties but they had no knowledge of what the young witch would become; she'd possibly be the first of a new species or just a simple vampire with gifts.

Jasper didn't care either way, he just wanted to hold the woman in his arms again. He wanted to kiss her and tell her how much he loved her, remind her every day that every moment with her was a blessing. He wanted to tell her that he lives to make her proud, that he'd move mountains for her, and that no one could ever replace her; she was it for him. He wanted to show her the world, to see her smile and watch the way her eyes lit up when she saw something adorable or when she spoke passionately about something. He would listen to her talk about her recent book for hours without getting bored, listen to her favourite songs on repeat and dance with her under the moonlight. He loved her so much it hurt.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Meanwhile, Paul was sitting on the La Push beach watching the waves lap against the shore, his mind was numb as someone moved to sit down next to him. "Carlisle said that there is still hope," Rachel Black ─ Jacob's older sister ─ spoke after a few moments of silence watching the water. She moved to rest her head on Paul's shoulder, the two had been seeing each other since her recent return from college; Anna had been the one to push Paul to make the move on the woman he had a crush on in Senior year. "I felt the link snap," Paul replied to her in a monotonous voice that caused Rachel to frown, she couldn't understand the impact that had outside his words.

"My one job was to protect my Imprint and I couldn't even do that," Paul added as he felt anger rise within him, "I knew something was off with her." Paul pushed himself up and began pacing, Rachel stayed in her spot knowing Emily's story all too well, she knew not to get in his way. "She had to of known something... I saw it in her eyes and I didn't push her to talk," Paul rambled as he became more and more angry with himself. "Because you respect her," Rachel said softly making him stop and look towards the ground, "You understood she didn't want to talk about it. You trusted her and it is something she adores about you." Paul took in slow breaths as Anna had taught him.

"I know..." Paul whispered as Rachel stood up trusting that he had calmed himself. "The real question is... will her transition change how you see her?" Rachel asked Paul, placing her hand on the side of his face in the process. "No way... Anna is still Anna no matter what," Paul answered Rachel, just the idea of shunning her for that made him angry; Anna would always be just Anna, she'd always be his little sister. "Then that's all that matters at the end of the day," Rachel told him before wrapping her arms around his shoulders, Paul wrapped his arms around her waist and held her close to him with his eyes closed. "I just want her to wake up," Paul whispered. "She will," Rachel replied with certainty.

Chapter Text

Anna looked peaceful as she lay on the bed but underneath that, her veins were burning from the venom spreading throughout her body in a way that would drop a man to his knees in seconds. Jasper only left her side when he needed to hunt, he had overheard Alice's excitement about preparing for Bella and Edward's wedding in a month; enough time to both ensure plenty of prep time and that Anna would be there as Bella's maid of honour. Admittedly, Jasper felt envious of them despite the knowledge that Anna would survive. Alice had a vision a day after the battle where she saw Jasper and Anna together but she didn't get a look at their faces so she couldn't confirm the vampire part.

The family had received a letter from the Volturi regarding Anna's situation, Aro sending his condolences and prayers for a speedy recovery but they weren't fooled by his "kindness", he was unhappy with Anna's survival and the coven's growth. However, he seemed happy hearing about Bella's future transition, knowing a time was set allowed everyone to relax. But Jasper paid no mind to any of it as he sat by the bed reading Anna's favourite books to her as the hours passed slowly. Edward had been focused on trying to listen to any possible thoughts that may echo from Anna's mind but it was silent in a way that unnerved him though he didn't tell anyone.

Paul had been to visit twice in the two days that Anna had been ─ as Alice calls it ─ asleep. The pack had sent him with flowers for the second visit, they had practically demanded that he tell Anna about what they had been up to. Bella had taken this time to truly appreciate the impact her little sister had on everyone, the positive attitude and understanding between the natural enemies was something that she had been told was near impossible. It was something that Esme had been hoping for, she only wanted peace between the two sides and the pack seemed to absolutely love the cooking she had sent back with Paul. Seth had even been to visit to collect some baked goods, the boy getting along with Bree who needed a friend.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Bella had found the envelopes in Anna's room, she frowned as she realised that Anna had a feeling she wouldn't survive the fight. Bella held the envelope with her name on it in her hand and stared at it, she sat on the edge of Anna's bed and had no idea whether or not she should open it. She knew that Anna would wake up, Bella had full faith that her little sister would be fine and she'd be awake soon to force everyone into a movie night. Bella bit down on her bottom lip before she tore the envelope open and removed the yellow sheet of paper, unfolding it before smiling at the decorated handwriting that screamed Anna; her heart was racing as she began reading.

Dear Isabella,

If you are reading this letter then something did go wrong during the battle against the Newborns which means everyone might be distraught messes. There isn't much I can say in this letter because I've always been a blunt and honest person. I do wish to say this, if there is a chance that I make it out of this; don't give the others the letters, it'd make a very awkward conversation. Anyway, I just wanted to say that I love you, Bell. I know we've been distant and on opposite sides but I just care about you and your future.

I need you to be certain that Edward and immortality are what you truly want. No leading Jacob on and no takebacks. I know that it hurts to push away someone you love but you need to make a choice and stick to it. You choose what future you want; Edward and immortality or Jacob and growing old. Make the choice.

But whatever, huh? Our lives are pretty fucking crazy, ya know that! Vampires and wolves, witches and magic... every teenage girl's dream really. Look, this letter doesn't matter because I believe we'll be alright. You're gonna get married, I'll be there to tease you and cry with you. And everything will be sunshine and rainbows.

I love you, my twin. Forever and always.
Love, Anniebell
(yes, I remember our "twin name")

Bella sniffled as she laughed quietly, tears streaming down her face as she looked up to see the photo of her and Anna resting on Annabeth's desk. She held the letter against her chest and let herself cry, she hadn't realised how distant the two became in her time of chasing Edward. Bella knew she had a lot of making up to do, she didn't want to be that obsessive girl anymore; she wanted to be Bella, Anna's older sister who adored her so much. She just hoped that Anna would wake up soon, everyone needed Anna back in their lives cause like the dark clouds over Forks; their sunshine was missing.

Bree stood by the windows in the Cullens living room, she hadn't said much to anyone other than Esme and Rosalie. It was clear the young girl missed her parents, she had informed them that her parents had been killed by Riley's newborns leaving her an orphan. Rosalie had made a promise to protect the sixteen-year-old girl with everything she had 'cause if Anna saved her somehow, it meant the girl deserved to live. Truthfully, Bree wanted Anna to wake up so she could ask her why she saved her and thank her for giving her a chance. Bree was terrified but Carlisle had been impressed by the girl's improvements along with the fact that feeding on animals seemed so natural for her.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

The Olympic Coven stood around the house doing their own things, Emmett and Colton were watching Scooby Doo with Bree in the living room. Alice and Esme worked on planning Bella's wedding in the kitchen. Edward was reading to Bella in his room while Rosalie and Jasper sat on the patio outside in silence. It had been almost five days since Jasper bit Anna and she hadn't woken up however, Carlisle had looked her over and was stunned by the warmth that had returned to Anna's body. He was currently at work but he had informed everyone that her situation was unique as her colour had returned.

Edward stopped reading and looked up towards Jasper's room, he furrowed his brows as he tried to focus on what he thought he had heard for a moment. "What is it?" Bella asked him after noticing the look on his face. "I think..." Edward trailed off before he stood up and led Bella into the living room, the others looked up at Edward. "Edward?" Esme spoke softly as she took notice of the look in Edward's eyes. Carlisle walked in the front door, he stopped in the kitchen as the air around them seemed to have shifted. Jasper and Rosalie were the next to walk into the house as Emmett paused the show, they were all silent as they focused their hearing; Bella was unnerved by the strange reactions.

Thump, thump, thump. The beating of a heart began picking up from a slow pace into a steady pattern, Edward looked at Jasper whose eyes had widened. No one moved an inch as they listened to the familiar heartbeat, the shift in the environment became comforting rather than unnerving. A short breath was taken in before it was released and that was all Jasper needed to make his way upstairs to his room, he stopped in the doorway and focused on Anna, a smile of disbelief crossing his face as Anna's chest rose and fell with each breath that left her lips. Bella and Edward had followed Jasper upstairs and both noticed how human Anna looked; they watched as she gasped and sat up, her eyes stunning the three of them.

Chapter Text

Anna gasped as her lungs burned for air, she sat up from the bed and took in greedy breaths of air before opening her eyes. Her usual light blue eyes were darker with a mist of grey but if you looked close enough, the colour mix was unnatural and inhuman. The environment was completely different to Annabeth, she could physically see the specks of dust in the air along with hearing the subtle steps of a deer in the forest possibly miles away. Anna turned her head at the slight creak of the floor, her focus was on Jasper who seemed to glow slightly in a way that made Anna smile. Her sight was clearer than ever, she felt light as a feather and in perfect peace with her body.

"How are you feeling?" Edward asked with a smile, Anna's mind was reeling and loud to him yet he was amused by her clear excitement about her change. "Alive..." Anna responded, her voice was softer than normal. Jasper watched as Anna stood from the bed, she moved towards them but was stunned when she practically rushed into Jasper. "She has the vampire speed," Edward said with a chuckle, Jasper held Anna who smiled sheepishly. "Uh, that wasn't my intention," Anna told them before laughing to herself. "There are a lot of things different about you now," Edward said before looking from Anna to Jasper, he nodded to himself.

"We'll leave you to it," Edward said knowing Jasper wanted to be with her alone. Bella was hesitant but she knew that Anna would need to get used to her new capabilities while learning exactly what she could and couldn't do. "This is different," Anna told Jasper as she placed her left hand on the side of his face, the warmth coming from her made him smile; the familiar feeling was comforting after the five agonising days without her. "You should see your eyes, darling," Jasper replied to her as he brushed her hair behind her ear, "They remind me of the deep blue of the ocean under moonlight mixed with the misty early morning fog." Anna blushed at the words, he led her over to the mirror.

"We have no clue what exactly I am, do we?" Anna asked Jasper who shook his head, wrapping his arms around her from behind. "I don't care either way. I'm just happy to have you in my arms again," Jasper whispered to her before he kissed her neck gently. He felt no temptation for her blood at all and based on the usual thirst the others felt with the twins around, he could tell they no longer found her blood appetising. "You appear fairly human which could be due to the witch part of you but the question is... do you feel thirsty?" Jasper asked hesitantly. Anna swallowed after he asked and immediately her throat felt like sandpaper.

Jasper felt the change instantly, the thirst coming off of Anna was all he needed to understand she desired blood like any Vampire does. "Come on," Jasper grabbed her hand and the two vamp-sped out of the house and into the woods. "How good is your hunting skills?" Jasper asked Anna with a smirk, the blonde rolled her eyes. "Terrible..." Anna replied to him before she felt the presence of a buck nearby while Jasper picked up on the scent of human blood. He was left stunned when Anna rushed off in the direction of the buck rather than the person, she sunk her teeth into the buck's neck allowing her body to take its fill.

Jasper leaned against the tree and watched his mate feed, his own mouth salivating at the scent of blood and the action he witnessed. Jasper sped over to Anna and moved up behind her as she pulled away from the now-dead animal, she turned her head to Jasper who smiled proud of her. "Better?" Jasper whispered to her. "So much better," Anna told him before he leaned forward and kissed her. Anna leaned back into Jasper as he deepened the kiss, both the blood and her presence set Jasper's primal side off. Anna, with her new strength, pushed Jasper to the soil and straddled his waist as they kissed.

Jasper's growl was primal as he fought for dominance, sitting up and pushing Anna closer to him causing her to buck her hips into his, the friction sent them both into overdrive. With his newly unbreakable mate, Jasper didn't hold back as he made love to the woman he loved with every atom of his being. The experience was euphoric for Anna, she felt every touch and drowned in every thrust. By the time the two had returned to the Cullen household, the sun was setting and the two were smiling as they entered the home. "How was the fed?" Colton asked with a smirk. "She definitely needs blood to survive. Her control is incredible and she hunted a buck without struggle," Jasper said watching Colton scoff playfully.

"Can you still use magic?" Alice asked Anna who shrugged. Anna closed her eyes and focused on the energy like she had before, she was stunned by the warmth that blazed through her before she opened her eyes, holding out her palm as a ball of light formed. "That's a yes," Emmett said with an impressed smirk. "It's different though. A lot of the things I could do before, I don't think I could do now," Anna told Emmett as she leaned into Jasper's arms. "A Heretic," Grandma Rose's familiar voice spoke causing everyone to look towards the door where she stood with Bella. "I thought she'd be the best person to help," Bella spoke before cautiously looking at Anna.

"It's okay to be hesitant, Bells. But really, your blood isn't even... interesting to me," Anna said before opening her arms for her older sister. Jasper stepped back to allow the sisters to embrace each other, Bella melted into her sister's arms while Anna smiled fondly. "The lack of desire is possibly due to your subconscious knowing the struggle for your mate. It's a balance of nature, you the one who can control it and Jasper, the one who'd be a ripper without you," Grandma Rose explained as she smiled at Bree before sitting down on the couch.

"So she has the strength and speed of a vampire along with the need for blood but she can still access her magic?" Bella asked Grandma Rose who thought for a moment. "I'd assume that Anna would need to ensure she has consumed enough blood before using magic as Mana is connected to a human soul," Grandma Rose explained, "And while I am certain that her Mana now circulates through the venom, we cannot risk an insatiable blood-lust caused by magic use." Anna nodded as she processed her grandmother's words before looking at Jasper who was worried about that, "I'll limit my use of magic to strict moments when I need it, easy."

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After spending some more time with the coven, Anna decided it might be a good idea to meet Paul at the treaty line. She wasn't sure what her new status as a Heretic meant for their Imprint bond and she was admittedly worried he may see her differently now that she was half-vampire, half-witch. But that worry seemed to fade as she saw Paul waiting for her on the Cullens territory with his arms open and a wide grin on his face. "I felt it..." Paul whispered to Anna after she ran into his embrace, "I felt it snap and then... it clicked again but it felt stronger, more unbreakable." Anna smiled as she pulled back from the hug to see his teary eyes.

"You're still... human?" Paul asked with a confused expression that made Anna laugh. "It's a long story..." Anna answered him before the two sat down on the edge of the cliff. Paul told Anna about what happened on the battlefield including Jacob saving Leah which made Anna both proud and annoyed with Jacob. Anna explained her Heretic existence to Paul and the fact that she was possibly one of a kind as far as they currently know. And besides the wolves' natural instinct to hate the Cold Ones, Paul was beyond happy that his Imprint was alive ─ immortal ─ but alive.

After the two spent some time together, it was revealed that Anna was still welcome on the Reservation, that news made Anna smile widely as she wished Paul goodnight and walked over to Jasper. "I'd like to see my dad," Anna told him as he placed his hands on her hips and pulled her in. "Tomorrow," Jasper whispered to her, pulling her in closer to him as she wrapped her arms around his shoulders. "Yeah, I can work with that," Anna whispered back before she kissed his jaw, moving towards his lips as he lifted her up into his arms. Anna let out a moan as Jasper kissed her neck, "Let's go home." Anna nodded in agreement with his words before he carried her back to his room.

Chapter Text

Two weeks went by and Annabeth spent time with everyone, she had practically perfected her control in a way that outshone Carlisle who was proud of her. Anna had the chance to talk to her father who chalked her new eye colour up to the witch bloodline connected to his mother who had explained it all to Charlie. However, Anna was currently standing on the balcony of a holiday home belonging to the Cullens in the beautiful meadows of Ireland. Jasper walked up to the door and admired his mate standing in the soft breeze with her eyes closed, he felt completely blessed by her presence and nothing else mattered to him more than her.

"Ireland has been a place I've always dreamed of visiting," Anna said as Jasper wrapped his arms around her waist, he rested his head on her shoulder and relaxed completely against her. "Between the Irish accent, the rolling fields and the calming environment... it's perfect," Anna continued as she opened her eyes and leaned her head back to look Jasper in the eyes, "And with you by my side, it's heaven." Jasper smiled at her before kissing her lips softly. The two were just happy to be away from the chaos of Forks despite the plans to return for Bella and Edward's wedding day; which Anna was honestly not surprised about.

"Can I tell you something?" Anna asked Jasper who looked at her with an amused expression as he spoke, "Of course you can, Darling. Always and anything." Anna laughed softly to herself before she turned around in Jasper's hold and placed her hands on his chest. "When I was in that memory with Magnolia, she told me that due to my magic and witch bloodline, I could... possibly... have a baby if I really wanted it..." Anna slowly explained to Jasper whose eyes widened hearing that. "I don't know how my body would handle it nor do I know how the baby would grow but... I need to know... if this is possible, would you?" Anna asked before looking down.

"If there is a possibility that we could have a child together and that's something you'd want, then I'd be more than happy to help make it happen," Jasper answered her with a smirk, truthfully, the idea of having an actual family with Anna was something he had thought about from the moment he first saw her in the parking lot. "I mean... not right now but in the future... I'd rather learn more about it and Grandma Rose is doing research," Anna told him but the smile on her face made Jasper's dead heart almost skip a beat in his chest. The two stood silent as they watched the sun continue rising into the sky.

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Jasper had decided that while they were in Ireland, he would introduce Anna to his closest friends, Peter and Charlotte. He knew they would be eager to meet the woman that tamed his wild soul ─ at least, what's left of it. And so the couple headed into town and met with the two at a local bar where they sat in the garden awaiting their arrival. "Peter!" Jasper cheerfully called out, he approached the man as he stood and they embraced each other. "Jasper, you look well," Peter told him as they pulled apart, clapping each other on the shoulder. "Good to see you, Charlotte," Jasper nodded to the woman who stayed seated.

"And this must be Annabeth?" Peter asked as he held out his hand, Anna nodded and shook it while Charlotte watched. "It's a pleasure to meet Jasper's closest friends," Anna said as she sat down in the seat that Jasper had pulled out for her. "The last Jasper and I spoke, you were human," Peter said as he leaned back in his seat, his hand resting on Charlotte's thigh. "Uh, yeah. Well, that's a long story," Anna told Peter as she glanced at Jasper. "Well, I'd love to hear it," Peter said with a grin, Jasper rested his arm on the back of Anna's chair as she nodded and began telling Peter about her death.

After spending a few hours explaining what happened during their battle against Newborns, Peter and Charlotte had fully warmed up to Anna and her kindness. Jasper adored the way Charlotte and Anna got along as the four of them walked down the busy street, the two girls walking ahead as they told each other their stories and plans for the future. "She's good for you," Peter told Jasper with a smile, "A thousand times better than Maria ever was." Jasper wholeheartedly agreed with Peter's words, he wouldn't deny that. "Anna is my world," Jasper replied to him, he had told Peter about his and Anna's time apart.

"You gonna take the human route? Get down on one knee and marry her?" Peter asked with a teasing grin but when Jasper didn't say anything but simply smile, Peter's grin turned into a smile. "I've already spoken to her father. He's not too keen about the young age but he only wants her happy, so he gave me his blessing," Jasper replied to Peter who finally realised why he was so nervous. "I'm happy for you, Jasper. If anyone deserves happy ever after, it's you," Peter told him as they reached a lookout point just outside of the main town. "Charlotte, let's head off. I'm feeling hungry," Peter said understanding that Jasper and Anna didn't share their diet.

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"Why are you so nervous?" Anna asked Jasper as they looked out at the mountains, she rested her arms on the railing. "Annabeth Swan," Jasper spoke gaining her attention, her eyes widened seeing Jasper down on one knee just behind her. "I was lost travelling down a lonely road with no purpose," Jasper began, "And then you appeared in my life. You brought the sunshine back into my world, blew the stormy clouds away with your smile and showed me a whole new universe with hope for something ─ for a purpose in my immortal life." Anna sniffled though no tears fell, another vampire aspect.

"I know I can't promise you the world but I can promise you my heart, to love you until the stars fall from the sky above," Jasper said with a smile seeing the way Anna's eyes lit up and how her undead heart was fluttering, "So, Annabeth Swan, my sweet darling sunshine, will you marry me?" Anna nodded, "Yes, Jasper. A million times yes." Jasper stood up from the ground and put the gorgeous ring on Anna's left ring finger before wrapping his arms around her, lifting her as their lips collided. Anna felt nothing but pure joy in this very moment, nothing else mattered in the world as she stood in Jasper's arms; this is her purpose.

Chapter Text

"YOU'RE GETTING MARRIED TODAY!" Anna shrieked as she jumped onto her older sister who was sleeping ─ emphasis on the was . "Good morning to you too, Anna," Bella replied as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes to see her younger sister's wide smile. "I seriously cannot believe that not only are you getting married but I'm engaged too... this is crazy," Anna told Bella as she rolled off to lay next to her sister, the two staring up at the ceiling as they took in how much their lives had genuinely changed since they moved to Forks and neither of them held any regrets about the decision.

"Anyway, get dressed 'cause Alice is awaiting your arrival to get ready for your big day," Anna said before she climbed off of Bella's bed and headed out of her room. Despite Anna's eyes, she was completely human to the natural eye which made her life slightly easier especially when it came to being around her father. "Married... my oldest is getting married," Charlie muttered behind his mug of coffee, Anna smiled up at him as she dropped off of the bottom step. "And I'm engaged. We aren't so little anymore, huh?" Anna teased while Charlie frowned, his daughters had grown up so quickly and he still couldn't believe it.

"Why'd you two grow up so quickly?" Charlie asked as he put his mug down, Anna could feel her father's sadness and it made her heart hurt. Anna walked up to her father and wrapped her arms around him before resting her head against his chest, Charlie sighed as he hugged his daughter. "We'll always be your little girls, Dad. We found love but that doesn't mean you'll never see us again," Anna told Charlie, she knew Edward had told Bella that after she turned, she couldn't have contact with Charlie but Anna wouldn't allow that; she'd tell Charlie everything if she had to.

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Anna smiled as Rosalie pinned up her hair, the two were only a few steps away from Bella and Alice as the latter did Bella's makeup. "What did I say about beauty sleep?" Alice asked Bella with a stern expression. "Sorry, bad dream. It was the wedding jitters," Bella replied to her as Rosalie finished up with Anna's hair. "Do you need some help? I could do her hair," Rosalie offered as Alice turned to help Anna with her makeup knowing the blonde was useless when it came to makeup. "Really?" Bella asked shocked by her offer. "Please, I'm not offended by your choice of groom," Rosalie said as she began working on Bella's hair.

"Just my blatant lack of respect for mortality," Bella replied making Rosalie nod. "At least you're self-aware," Anna teased with a wink before being scolded by Alice for moving. "Weddings. They bring everyone together," Alice said happily, the pixie was beyond happy for the growth in her family and she genuinely believed they'd all live happily. "Mom and Dad are here," Anna suddenly spoke up before Renee's voice caught their attention. "Anna? Bella?" Renee called out from the stairs. "In here, Mom," The twins called back in unison, the two giggling while Alice and Rosalie watched in pure amusement.

"Oh, my gosh! You're so beautiful. Oh, honey," Renee was in awe of her eldest daughter standing there all dolled up. "Crap! My mascara," Renee exclaimed as tears formed in her eyes, Alice handed her a handkerchief. "Charlie, get in here!" Renee called out to her ex-husband after thanking Alice for the handkerchief. "You sure? I don't wanna..." Charlie trailed off as he walked into the room. "I know. I look hot," Charlie said with a grin making the others laugh. Charlie opened a gift box containing a jewelled hair comb accessory, "We thought you needed something blue. And something old. Besides your mother." Renee rolled her eyes, "Nice."

"It was Grandma Rose's," Charlie said as Bella picked it up with a smile. "But we added the sapphires," Renee added as Anna hugged her. "It's beautiful, you guys. Wow, thank you so much," Bella complimented as she handed it over to Alice to put in her hair. "It's your first family heirloom. Pass it on to your daughter, and her daughter..." Renee began to cry again while Anna and Bella shared an uncertain expression. "Mom, I love it," Bella says before moving to embrace Charlie and Renee only for Alice to stop her, "Nope. No smudging my masterpiece." Renee agreed before Alice clapped her hands, "Okay. Time for the dress! Do you wanna see it?"

Anna excused herself to get into her dress, she walked into Jasper's room to see him standing by the window looking down at the crowd. "Are you okay, love?" Anna asked as she approached him, her hands wrapping around his arm as she looked out the window. "Just feeling the thirst of the Denali coven due to them being around humans. That on top of the usual thirst around me... I'll be okay, Darling," Jasper assured her as he turned his head. "You look beautiful, Anna," Jasper told her as he turned to her. "And you look handsome, Jasper," Anna replied before glancing out the window again, "Jess thinks Bella's pregnant and that's why she's marrying young."

Jasper laughed at that, "Jessica has a way of making things seem negative rather than positive." Anna nodded in agreement with her fiancé's words, but she knew that one conversation with Jessica would help the brunette understand that Bella was in love and ready to be married to the man she loved. "I'm right here, Jasper. You're gonna be fine. Just focus on me," Anna told Jasper who smirked. "I'm always focused on you, Darling. You're all I think about, night and day, you are my everything," Jasper told her before leaning down to kiss Anna who felt so immensely in love with Jasper that her life meant nothing without him by her side.

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After getting into her maid-of-honour dress, Anna made her way out to the ceremony. Anna sat down in the front row next to Jasper smiling as they stood up and turned to watch Bella be walked down the aisle by Charlie. Turning Page by Sleeping At Last played through the speakers that had been set up, the song being the perfect choice for Edward and Isabella. Charlie handed Bella off to Edward and everyone sat down as the Minister began, "Ladies and gentlemen, we are gathered here on this glorious day to witness the union of Edward Cullen and Bella Swan. Please repeat after me." Anna sniffled slightly despite no tears falling.

Anna grabbed Jasper's hand in her own, she couldn't help but picture her own wedding day; she didn't want something this extravagant, she wanted simple with only those closest to her. The now husband and wife shared their first kiss married, Anna stood up and clapped for the newly wedded couple with a wide smile. Jasper relished in the pure joy that radiated off of his beloved in tidal waves, the emotion overpowering the thirst the vampires were holding back. After the ceremony, they made their way towards the area that had been cleared for the reception and Anna spent time introducing Jasper to family who had come for Bella's wedding.

Jasper and Anna turned their attention to the Denali coven who approached them wanting to meet the woman who had tamed the Major. "You must be Anna," Carmen spoke as she leaned into Eleazar's side. "That would be me. I'm risking the assumption that you are Carmen and Eleazar?" Anna asked with a kind smile. "You'd be guessing that right," Carmen answered her with her own smile. "And this is Tanya, Kate and Irina," Carmen pointed to the three blondes who stood by them. "It's a pleasure to meet both of you," Anna told them. "You were imprinted on by one of them," Irina said with a glare, Anna sighed knowing about Laurent. "Irina," Tanya said sternly.

Jasper pulled Anna away from the Denali Coven and led her over to their seats by Edward and Bella, the speeches beginning for the night. "Excuse me. Is this on? Hello?" Emmett spoke through the microphone receiving a thumbs-up from Anna. "Umm, I'd like to propose a toast. To my new sister, Bella, I hope you've gotten enough sleep these last eighteen years. 'Cause you won't be getting any more for a while," Emmett says with a laugh, and while the supernatural beings knew he meant the life of a vampire, the others thought inappropriately creating an awkward atmosphere that made Anna laugh.

Jessica took Emmett's place and smiled, "Well, Bella was just like everybody else, totally mesmerized by Edward. Or 'The Hair', as I call him. And then, suddenly, Edward is all about Bella. Even though she's not the captain of the volleyball team." Jessica laughed while Anna shook her head. "I'm just kidding, I'm just kidding. Or the president of the student council," Jessica added before noticing the look on Anna's face, she willingly handed the microphone over to Charlie. "Edward will be a good husband. I know this because I'm a cop. I know things. Like how to hunt somebody to the ends of the Earth," Charlie threatened playfully with a serious undertone that made Bella smile.

Others spoke including Alice and Renee, the latter having sung the lullaby she sang to the twins when they were babies; she was clearly intoxicated already. "I'd like to thank Renee and Charlie for bringing such a wonderful person into the world and into our lives. We will cherish and protect her forever," Esme spoke with a kind smile before Anna made her way up to the stage, she took in a breath before looking at Bella who leaned forward with eagerness to hear what her little sister had to say. "Isabella Swan, my older twin, my other half, my wombmate. The Bell to my Annie," Anna began making Bella laugh with teary eyes.

"From the moment we were born, we were the best of friends. We've had many ups and downs, disagreements and moments of silent treatment towards each other but no matter what happened, we always looked out for one another," Anna said with her eyes locked with her older twin, "We both held fears about what may happen to us once high school was over but truthfully, I know that no matter what pathways we take, we'll always find out way back to each other. I love you, Bell. And I'm so happy that you've found love even though you were a completely awkward teenager." Everyone laughed while Bella rolled her eyes, wiping the tears that fell.

"And Edward, I know we've had our disagreements and while some are still in the pending stage of forgiveness," Anna said as she looked at Edward, he nodded understanding why she still hadn't forgiven him. "Thank you for never truly walking away from Bella. For showing her that she can be loved and for fighting for her. And while I'm sure we'll still butt heads, I am happy to say welcome to the family, brother-in-law," Anna told him with a smile. "But remember, I'm the daughter of the sheriff, you screw up, and let's just say... it won't be pretty," Anna warned with an innocent smile that was more unnerving than comedic.

"It's an extraordinary thing to meet someone who you can bare your soul to. And who will accept you for what you are. I've been waiting, what seems like a very long time, to get beyond what I am. And with Bella, I feel like I can finally begin," Edward began after switching with Anna, the blonde shared a glance with Bella before leaning into Jasper who rested his arm around her waist and kissed the side of her head. "So I'd like to propose a toast to my beautiful bride. No measure of time with you will be long enough. But let's start with forever," Edward raised his glass, the room following his actions while Edward and Bella shared a loving look.

Chapter Text

After dancing for hours with Jasper, Anna walked up to Bella and her mother to say goodbye as Bella and Edward would be going on their honeymoon. "So, he really won't tell you where he's taking you?" Renee asked her eldest daughter. "No, it's a surprise," Bella answered as Anna handed over a bag. "What's this?" Bella asked Anna who smiled, "Trust me, Bells. You'll wanna take that bag." Bella furrowed her brows but trusted her sister's warning, placing the bag into the car with her other bags. "Well, wear a hat. Sunscreen. Take care of yourself," Renee told Bella who nodded before the two hugged. "I love you, Bella," Renee told her. "I love you," Bella replied as Charlie rested his hand on Anna's shoulder.

"Everything's packed and ready to go," Charlie said as Renee and Bella pulled out of their embrace. "Cool," Bella replied to Charlie. "Oh. I'm gonna go see him," Renee told them before she walked away to hopefully pry the surprise out of Edward for herself. "Dad," Bella greeted with a smile. "Well... it's gonna be strange, you not living under my roof. Neither of you," Charlie spoke looking between the twins, Anna had practically moved in with Jasper but they were making plans to move into their own place. "Yeah. It's gonna be strange for me, too," Bella told Charlie with a slight frown, growing up into adulthood isn't easy.

"You know it will always be your home, right?" Charlie asked Bella. "I love you, Dad. Forever," Bella replied to Charlie after nodding, she pulled Charlie into a hug while Anna watched the two fondly. "I love you, too, Bells. I always have and I always will. All right. Go on. You don't wanna miss your plane. Wherever it's going," Charlie told Bella as he pulled away from Bella and stood next to Anna who smiled. "Okay. Bye," Bella said before quickly hugging Anna. "I'll see you when you return, Bells. I love you," Anna whispered to her twin. "I love you too, Anna," Bella whispered back as Edward approached them. "You ready?" Edward asked. "Yeah, I'm ready," Bella replied before the newlywed couple got into the car and left.

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The next day, Anna smiled as she watched Emmett, Jasper, and Colton clean up the remaining decorations from the wedding. "You have vampire strength, why haven't you assisted us?" Colton asked Anna who simply sipped her chocolate milk, unlike an ordinary vampire, Anna could still consume food and drinks without having to throw it up after; something she was thoroughly happy about considering she loved chocolate milk. "Because my love wouldn't let me lift a finger," Anna told him with Jasper nodding in agreement with her. "Besides, is this you telling me that you're getting tired, Colt? Need to have a rest?" Anna teased making Colton roll his eyes.

"Just thought you'd want to fight against the whole 'women are weaker than man' belief," Colton taunted but Anna simply shrugged. "A Queen picks her battles, Colt. She has others to do her dirty work when she doesn't need to raise a finger," Anna teased with a smirk, Colton scoffed playfully while Jasper and Emmett laughed knowing Colton's attempts to taunt Anna were unsuccessful but proved to be entertainment for them all. "That's my girl," Jasper said before he walked over to Anna and pulled her into his arms, dipping her before slamming his lips into hers making her entire body tingle.

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Anna smiled as she leaned back against her car, she watched as the pack walked out of Sam's place before she whistled gaining their attention. "Anna!" Seth cheered before the young boy rushed over and wrapped his arms around the blonde. "Hey Pup," Anna greeted as she hugged the boy back, she smiled fondly as he leaned back from her arms. "Sam says that I'm getting better at control. He believes I'm better than Paul and Jared!" Seth told her happily, Anna laughed as both mentioned wolves glared at him. "You're done for," Jared said causing Seth's eyes to widen. "Not again!" Seth shouted before he ran off with Jared chasing him.

"What are you doing here?" Paul asked as he walked up to her, he wrapped his arms around her and smiled as she rested her head against his chest. "Wanted to see my brother," Anna told him with a smile, she always felt safe in Paul's embrace; not safer than Jasper's hold but very close. "Well, it's good to see you. It's been a while since we've had you to ourselves," Paul teased knowing why Jasper was extra protective of Anna, ever since her death, everyone had been more cautious about leaving Anna alone. "Yeah well, he's out with Colton and Emmett so I thought while he's spending time with his brothers, I'd come to see mine," Anna told him before Paul led her over to the house.

"Good to see you, Anna," Emily greeted before hugging Anna with no hesitation though Anna noticed the worry in Sam's eyes. "Don't worry Sam. I'm well fed in both mountain lion and Esme's delicious cooking," Anna assured the Alpha of the pack, he nodded his head while Embry and Quil perked up. "So you still eat human food?" Embry asked as he leaned against the counter with a smirk. "Yes, I do. But I still need to fed occasionally. Less than the others but it's still needed to make sure I don't grow too weak. My grandmother's worried that no blood would result in me dying or worse," Anna explained as she leaned against the counter.

"What's worse than you dying? 'Cause from my perspective, your death just about broke everyone in this town," Quil stated with a raised brow. "If I go without blood for too long, my grandmother believes that I would crave it so much that I'd kill anything that pumps blood through its systems," Anna answered him with fearful eyes, it was clear to all of them that she didn't want to risk that. "Well, let's just hope Thumper and Bambi don't choose another forest to live in then," Embry teased making Anna roll her eyes and laugh. "Thanks, Embry," Anna replied sarcastically while the others laughed along. Anna was beyond happy that the pack still accepted and adored her because she couldn't see her life without them.

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After spending time with the pack, Anna made her way to the local diner to do dinner with Tyler, Lauren, Jess, Mike, Angela, and Eric to catch up. "So you're all leaving for college, huh?" Anna asked the group with a smile. "Well, Eric and I are attending the same college so we decided it'd be easier to follow your suggestion and just... get an apartment together," Angela told Anna who grinned widely hearing that, she truly believed that Angela and Eric were practically soulmates who would survive together. "That's amazing. Just remember to take everything one step at a time and be ready for stressful days. And remember I'm always a phone call away," Anna reminded them, and the couple smiled gratefully towards her.

"Well, they are leaving this Friday but I'm not leaving till Monday. And my parents have been all excited about me going off to college which is, like, so great!" Jessica spoke up as she grabbed her drink and looked up at Anna. "What about you? Are you going off to college?" Jessica asked causing Tyler and Anna to share a knowing look. "Uh, I'm gonna take a gap year. I can't decide for the life of me what I want to major in so Jasper and I are gonna travel," Anna answered her, she twisted the engagement ring on her finger with a small smile. "You and Bella really are twins, huh?" Mike said with a forced smile. "Yeah, it's crazy, right?" Anna replied to him.

"She's married, you're engaged. Seems like moving to Forks was the best choice you both could've made," Mike said with an underlying bitter tone, it was obvious he wasn't over his break up with Jessica nor did he like the fact that both twins were taken by someone that wasn't him. But Anna shrugged it off with a smile, "You'll find someone, Mike. We're all young and have long lives ahead of us." Mike nodded before he focused on eating his burger. "When do you plan to get married?" Angela asked Anna with a wide smile. "Uh, we haven't quite decided yet. At the moment, we are just enjoying our engagement and each other," Anna said with a grin.

The group of friends continued talking about their future plans and reminisced on memories of their high school days. Anna had a lot of fun hanging out with the people she deeply cared about, she was gonna miss them all when they went their separate ways but she knew that they all had different paths to take in life. After dinner, they all said their farewells and went their own ways. "Anna," Tyler called out leaving Lauren in his car for warmth, he jogged over to his best friend with a smile. "I know you've got this new immortal life but... don't go forgetting me, yeah? I expect to see your beautiful smile when I'm old and grey telling my grandchildren all about my crazy best friend, alright?" Tyler told her when he noticed the real goodbye behind Anna's words.

"All right. I know, uh... You're my best friend, Ty. And I'll always be there," Anna assured him and she meant every word, she would never forgive herself if she didn't keep her promise. Tyler smiled at that and pulled the blonde into a hug, "You are an amazing person, Annabeth. And meeting you was a gift." Anna laughed at his words before they pulled apart. "Don't leave ya woman waiting. I'll see you around," Anna told Tyler with a wink, Tyler nodded before the two did their handshake. Anna smiled happily as Tyler walked to his car and got in, she shook her head before heading to the Cullen household to spend some time with her fiancé.

"Anna? Darling?" Jasper called out, he heard the sound of someone throwing up. He made his way into the bathroom to find Anna kneeling over the toilet with her hair tied back, he rushed over to her and rubbed her back as she coughed before flushing the toilet and moving away from it. "Are you okay, darling?" Jasper asked as Anna got up and rinsed her mouth with water, reaching for her toothbrush. "I think somethings wrong with Bella..." Anna whimpered out to Jasper who furrowed his brows. "What do you mean?" Jasper asked her as he walked closer and wrapped his arms around her waist. "I felt sick but it... it was distant. Something tells me that something is wrong with Bella," Anna told him with worried eyes.

Chapter Text

No one prepared the twins for this. They knew that one of them would be gifted with the possibility to fall pregnant due to their witch connection to Magnolia and Nadia but neither of them actually thought about it so soon. When Anna realised that something was wrong with her sister, she immediately called her but to hear that she believed she was pregnant shocked Anna in a way she never felt before. Her sister's pregnancy wasn't going to be normal, a human and a vampire was bound to have complications that no one was truly prepared for and Anna was scared of losing her twin sister.

After talking to Carlisle, Edward and Bella were heading back to Forks while everyone else prepared for anything. Jasper was quick to notice Anna's anxieties, the fear that filled her body at the idea of her sister possibly having a child that could kill her. He tried his hardest to reassure her that Bella would be okay but it didn't seem to process in Anna's mind who couldn't fight the fear in her heart that something bad was coming. Anna wouldn't lose her older sister, no matter what had happened between them, they were twins; and that meant everything to Annabeth Swan.

And Anna knew that Charlie deserved the entire truth before Bella's return, she wouldn't let them fake Bella's death or anything like that. Anna doesn't care about the Volturi's rules, as far as she is concerned, she is above them. So with an agreement set with Carlisle, Anna and Jasper headed to the Swan household to tell Charlie the truth about everything; no matter what his response was, she would make sure he understood everything. Anna and Jasper stood outside the house, the blonde watched the home with a worried expression while Jasper held her hand in reassurance.

"It's gonna be fine, Darling. Just breathe," Jasper whispered to his fiancé, he kissed the side of her head. Anna led Jasper into the house and she smiled seeing her dad being bossed around by Sue Clearwater; the blonde Swan was happy to see her father in a loving relationship with someone who knew and understood the world Charlie was about to be dragged into. Plus, it meant that Seth and Leah were her step-siblings. "Anna?" Charlie smiled seeing his youngest standing there, she rushed forward and embraced him in a tight hug. "Hello Jasper," Sue greeted with a kind smile. "How are you, Sue?" Jasper asked her politely. "I'm well, just keeping Charlie alive and healthy," Sue replied with a playful smile that made Jasper laugh.

"She's changed my diet," Charlie whined to Anna who giggled as she pulled away from her father. "You gotta eat a little healthier eventually," Anna teased making Charlie sigh in defeat before laughing. "Not that I don't mind the visit, sweetheart, but what are you doing here?" Charlie asked knowing that Anna and Jasper had been busy preparing for their future together. "Uh, well... Sue, you may want to prep the scotch for this conversation," Anna warned Sue who caught on instantly, she nodded and headed into the kitchen. "Are you pregnant?" Charlie asked with wide eyes, he wasn't so sure he was ready for that step so soon.

"No!" Anna replied before clearing her throat, "Please just... sit down and no matter what, I need you to just listen and process without laughing or cracking a joke about what I'm going to tell you." Charlie took immediate notice of the seriousness in his daughter's eyes along with the worry that was pooling in them. "Okay. I'll listen," Charlie assured her as he sat down on the couch, Sue made her way back in and sat down next to Charlie as Anna paced the floor in front of them, Jasper leaned against the wall in the doorway; he was tempted to send a calming wave towards her but remembered their conversation about how he can't always do that 'cause it affects his own emotions.

"I'm gonna just rip off the Band-Aid because it will be so much easier," Anna told Charlie as she shared a glance with Jasper who sent her a reassuring smile. "The Cullen family are vampires," Anna said to Charlie directly, she bit her lip as Charlie stared back at her. "I know," Charlie replied. "I understand that you-- Wait... you know?" Anna asked Charlie with furrowed brows, she tilted her head like a puppy. "My mother used to talk about the different things in the world and when it was confirmed that you were a witch, I figured everything else was real too," Charlie explained to his daughter before sighing, he stood up and grabbed his daughter's hands as he noticed the look in her eyes.

"Don't get me wrong, Anna. Does it scare me? Yes, it does. But only because of what's out there rather than who lives in my town," Charlie assured his daughter who nodded, she wrapped her arms around his torso and closed her eyes. "I love you, Dad. Even when you're old and grey while I'm still beaming with life," Anna told her father, Charlie laughed before taking in a deep breath. "At least I don't have to ever bury my daughters," Charlie told her as he pulled back and placed his hands on her shoulders, "I love you too, princess. As long as you are happy, that's all I care about." Anna nodded with a smile, her happiness had brightened the room massively causing Jasper to feel happier; he was always happier with Annabeth Swan by his side.

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After spending time with Charlie and Sue, the couple returned to the Cullen household and sat down in the living room waiting for Bella and Edward to return to Forks. Anna laid with her back to Jasper's chest, he was running his fingers feather-light up and down her arms to help her stay relaxed. Rosalie glanced at Anna before she walked out of the room, Anna leaned up and kissed Jasper's jaw before she made her way out following behind Rosalie who stood on the back patio. "Edward refuses to acknowledge the baby as a baby, he keeps calling her an "it" and claims he'll have Carlisle remove the "thing" like she isn't a baby," Rosalie expressed to Anna in hopes the blonde would side with her sister.

"Her?" Anna asked with a small smile. "It's a feeling," Rosalie replied with a smile of her own, Anna frowned slightly before leaning her arms on the railing. "I'm scared," Anna whispered to Rosalie who frowned hearing that. "That baby is a blessing and she isn't some "thing" like Edward claims but..." Anna trailed off as she stared up at the starry night sky. "You're scared you'll lose your sister," Rosalie finished for her causing Anna to nod her head. "What do I do? I will support my older sister but I can't lose her," Anna expressed to Rosalie who put her arm around the younger blonde. "We'll do everything we can to protect both of them," Rosalie assured Anna who nodded in agreement.

The two embraced each other in a tight hug, Anna took in a deep breath as she decided to stand with her sister; besides, going against Edward was always fun. After their conversation, Anna and Rosalie headed inside and sat with their respective mates. Jasper smiled at Anna having heard the conversation between Anna and his sister, he was gonna stand with his mate over his brother because she was his forever. "Carlisle," Anna spoke up pulling the Coven leader's attention, "I don't care what Edward has to say. Whatever my sister wants, she gets." Carlisle nodded his head, he understood both perspectives but knew better now to not stand against Anna's choice.

The moment Edward pulled up to the house, Anna sped outside and approached Bella while holding her breath. Bella climbed out of the car and walked towards her younger sister, the blonde raised one hand towards Bella's stomach and Bella encouraged her sister to rest her hand on her stomach. The moment Anna's hand came in contact with Bella's stomach, her eyes brightened before snippets of visions flashed through her mind bringing a smile to Anna's face. "She's beautiful," Anna whispered to her sister, Bella's eyes lit up at her sister's words. "I'm gonna have a girl?" Bella asked Anna who nodded with a wide smile.

The twins embraced each other as the family watched, Edward's apprehensive expression made Carlisle concerned; he watched as Edward stormed into the house with a frown but the twins paid him no mind. "Rose and I have your back, Bells. You'll both survive this, I know it in my heart," Anna told her sister before they pulled away from each other, Bella's eyes were watery as she looked into her twin's eyes. "You've got this, Bella," Anna added before grabbing her sister's hand and taking her inside so Carlisle could do a check-up of his own. Anna sent Rosalie to join Bella while the younger Swan headed to Edward's room alone.

"It will kill her," Edward said the moment Anna walked into the room, she glowered at him. "I won't lose her, Annabeth. We need to remove it, it's a parasite," Edward continued which only angered Annabeth more. Anna rushed forward and slammed Edward into the wall, her arm against his throat as her eyes turned grey. "Let's get one thing straight, Edward. Bella may be your mate but she's my sister first. If she wants to have this baby then she is getting her wish and you will not get in the way of that," Anna warned him as Jasper and Colton stepped into the room having heard the loud thud from downstairs. "You best learn to be supportive or you'll face me, Edward Cullen," Anna added as she tossed him to the ground and walked out.

Chapter Text

Anna sighed as she leaned against the wall, she crossed her arms with a scowl directed at Edward as steps heading upstairs pulled her attention to see Jacob approaching them. It had been a couple of weeks since Bella and Edward had returned from their honeymoon and the tension between Anna and Edward had only gotten worse with his continued hatred towards the baby he helped create. "Hello, Jacob, how are you?" Anna asked him with a kind smile. "Listen, just give it to me straight," Jacob told her causing the blonde to sigh. "Jake, is that you?" Bella spoke up from where she was seated on the couch.

"She's here?" Jacob asked Anna who nodded before she spoke, "They came home two weeks ago." Rosalie stood protectively in front of Bella, the two blondes had been very protective over Bella since they found out about the baby. "Jake. I'm glad you came," Bella said despite being hidden from his view. "Close enough," Rosalie warned Jacob once he had stepped closer to the couch. "What's your problem?" Jacob snarked at Rosalie who glared back at him. "Rose, it's okay," Bella reassured the blonde who relented and stepped aside to let Jacob get a better view of her, he sat down next to Bella on the couch and sent her a soft smile.

"You look terrible," Jacob teased though there was a seriousness in his tone. "Yeah, it's nice to see you too," Bella replied to him with an amused smile on her face. "So, are you gonna tell me what's wrong with you?" Jacob asked her with raised brows. "Rose, you wanna help me up?" Bella asked the blonde who was slightly hesitant before offering her help, Jacob watched with a confused expression until he noticed Bella's stomach that stuck out; she looked like she was around eight months pregnant. "You did this!" Jacob snapped at Edward who stood tall with guilt in his eyes.

"Jacob," Anna spoke with a stern warning tone that made him look at her, "Careful with those thoughts of yours." Jacob took careful notice of the look in Anna's eyes, the way she glared knowing the thoughts that were swirling through his mind. "What is it?" Jacob asked Carlisle who sighed. "I'm not sure. Ultrasounds and needles won't penetrate the embryonic sac," Carlisle explained to him. "I can't see it either. And I can't see Bella's future anymore," Alice added, she and Colton stood with Edward due to the unknown future. "We've been researching legends but there isn't much to go on," Carlisle explained to Jacob as Bella sat down again for comfort.

"What we do know is that it's strong. And fast-growing," Carlisle finished while Anna and Rosalie seethed at the lack of acknowledgement that the "it" was a baby that deserved life like anyone else. "Why haven't you done anything? Take it out of her!" Jacob shouted causing Bella to frown and Anna to glare harshly. "This is none of your business, dog," Rosalie sneered at Jacob who glared back at her. "Rose! All this fighting isn't good for Bella," Esme warned her daughter. "The fetus isn't good for Bella," Alice added finally making Anna snap. "BABY!" Anna shouted with her eyes overlapped grey and mist forming in her hands.

"It's a goddamn baby. And you may have your stupid doubts about what I saw but I saw a beautiful brunette girl. She had the warmth of a human and the immortality of a vampire so you can stand there and whine about Bella's future but I stand by her choice and for fucks sake, so should all of you!" Anna practically growled out, she was shaking out of anger prompting Jasper to step closer and grab her hand in his. The sky outside had darkened as storm clouds filled the blue, the wind had picked up dangerously and the room felt tense from the actions. "Darling..." Jasper whispered before placing his other hand on the side of her face, he turned her head to make eye contact.

"Anna's right. It's no one else's decision. It's my choice and I will have the baby, Jacob. You won't make that choice for me," Bella told Jacob sternly, she had already had a private talk with Anna about Bella needing to stand her ground; now more than ever. "Jacob, I need to talk to you," Edward said before leading the shifter out of the room, Anna let Jasper take her out of the room once he noticed how her eyes had darkened. "You haven't fed recently, have you?" Jasper asked causing the blonde to shake her head, he instantly grabbed her hand and the two rushed off into the forest to feed before Anna lost control of herself completely.

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Anna leans against the tree with a blank expression as a large grey wolf approaches the cliff, it snarls for a moment before shifting. Anna looked away to allow Paul privacy to put on some shorts before she stepped closer to the edge of the cliff. "Let me guess... Jacob's thoughts alerted the pack about Bella's pregnancy," Anna said as she remained stoic but Paul saw through it. "It's dangerous, Anna. That thing is an abomination that needs to be stopped before it's born," Paul told her noticing how Anna sneered at his words. "I won't let you, Paul. I refuse to let any of you harm my sister or my niece. You go for her, you'll be facing me," Anna warned him causing Paul to swallow cautiously.

"Don't do this, Anna," Paul almost begged as he saw the look in her eyes. "I won't use our bond against you but know this, I will fight to protect my family with everything I have and everything I am," Anna said sternly before turning to walk away. "Are you sure?" Paul asked prompting Anna to turn around and raise a brow. "That the... baby isn't dangerous?" Paul asked as he took steady breaths, he couldn't stand against his imprint as it goes against his nature as a wolf even if it meant going against his Alpha; their imprints always come first. "I saw her, Pauli. She's beautiful and in the visions, she survived off of both food and blood... exactly like I do," Anna explained before she walked away from him to process her words.

Jasper stood up straighter as Anna approached him with a fond smile, "He wouldn't hurt me, you know?" Jasper shrugged as he wrapped his arms around Anna's waist and pulled her closer to him. "I know but... I love seeing you riled up," Jasper whispered before he slammed his lips against hers, she moaned against his lips. Anna walked Jasper backwards into a tree and ran her fingers up his chest and into his hair, running her fingers through his curls as his grip tightened on her waist. A growl settled in his throat as he raised his head when Anna moved to kiss his jaw and then his neck, her mind was soaring as she nipped at his skin; the action caused Jasper to moan which only encouraged her further.

Jasper was completely stunned as Anna sunk her teeth into his neck, he had expected the usual pain of venom but instead, he felt nothing but euphoria. He turned them around and pushed her against the tree, he slammed his lips onto hers while Anna felt pride in awakening the more primal side of Jasper before his lips trailed down her jaw to her neck, he nipped at her skin before receiving a nod of approval. Jasper sunk his teeth into Anna's neck eliciting a moan from Anna's lips as she gripped his hair tight and pulled it slightly, her mind went blank at the pure pleasure she felt from the action. Her knees threatened to buckle but Jasper's hold held her up, he pulled away but didn't get far as she pulled his lips to hers.

Jasper lifted her so her legs would wrap around his torso, he was completely enamoured with Annabeth Swan. He couldn't remember his life before her because she was his every thought, every dream and every wish. And as she melted like putty in his hold, he knew he was ready to forgive himself for his past. Jasper pulled away from Anna with puffy lips from their heated make-out session, he brushed her hair out of her face. "I want to get married," Jasper muttered making Anna smile wide. "After Bella has the baby and everything has calmed down... I wanna marry you," Jasper told her, the blonde grinned and kissed him. "Sounds like a plan," Anna whispered against his lips.

The couple made their way back to the house, Anna sent her sister a small smile before Carlisle noticed the forming marks appearing on Jasper and Anna's necks. "You're marked..." Carlisle said with a wide grin, his eyes full of curious wonder. "Huh?" Anna asked before noticing the mark on Jasper's neck, she ran her fingers along it causing Jasper to bite back a groan in front of his family. "It's rare but then again, you two are more than mates. You're Soulbound and those who are, they share a mark as a sign that they were meant for one another," Carlisle explained to the couple who were smiling fondly at each other, they didn't need the mark to know it's true.

Chapter Text

"Sam's lost the element of surprise and he doesn't want to take you on outnumbered, so he's not gonna come at you head-on. He's got the place surrounded and he'll wait for his opportunity," Jacob explained to the Cullens family and the Swan twins. "We won't get through without a fight," Emmett spoke up while the twins shared a worried look. "No fights. We won't be the ones to break the treaty," Carlisle told his son, his eyes trailing through the room to focus on his family. "The treaty is void, at least in Sam's mind," Jacob replied to Carlisle who sighed. "Not in ours," Esme assured him, their desire to stay peaceful was admirable.

"Carlisle, no one's hunted for weeks," Emmett spoke while Anna noticed the uneasy expressions on Jasper and Colton's faces, the two were the ones who struggled the most. "We'll make do," Esme assured her son while Anna shook her head. "You've done us a great service, Jacob. Thank you," Carlisle expressed to Jacob who nodded before leaving the room to meet Seth and Leah outside. "We can't let you starve," Bella told the family while Anna began pacing, she knew she could do something as an Imprint she couldn't be harmed. "I can handle the pack, you guys need to feed," Anna told them, she sent a nod to Jasper before walking out of the house.

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"Sam! I know you're out here!" Anna snapped as she crossed her arms and stood in the middle of a clearing. The pack crept out of the shadows with Sam standing in front of her, she raised a brow as they growled at her. Anna's eyes flashed grey and Sam was sent to the ground and forced to shift into his human form, he glared up at her knowing she was untouchable. Paul walked past Sam and stood by Anna's side, after a talk with Rachel and Billy, he decided to stand with his Imprint rather than his Alpha. "I understand that you are doing what your instinct tells you but this has gone on long enough," Anna sneered at the Alpha once he stood up.

"My niece won't be some monster, Samuel. I've seen it, let me show you," Anna whispered the last few words before holding out her hand to allow him to decide. The rest of the pack watched closely as Sam looked from Anna's face to her hand, his mind was torn before he remembered Emily's words; We can always trust Annabeth's words, Sam. You must understand that as a witch, she knows danger. He sighed and took steady steps towards Anna, he noticed the watchful glare on Paul's face; Sam placed his hand into Anna's and instantly a warmth spread through his body before his eyes overlapped grey to match Anna's. And he saw and felt everything, the life in her niece's eyes and the warmth from her presence.

Sam gasped when he saw a boy resembling him and Emily, the boy wrapped his arms around Bella's daughter's shoulders and another boy approached them with bright blue eyes and a smirk that Sam had seen on Jasper's face in the past. "Yes, Sam. That's your son... friends with my niece and my future son," Anna told Sam before he pulled back with watery eyes, he and Emily had been trying for a child for some time and were beginning to feel hopeless. "That's the future, Sam. Unless you kill Bella... everything will change and I... I will stop you ," Anna warned Sam who stumbled back, the pack connected to his mind saw what he saw and they all became weary of their choices.

Sam motioned for the pack to follow him, he glanced at Anna before shifting and disappearing into the shadows alongside the others. "You make a great leader, Anna," Paul told Anna who smiled up at him. "Thank you. For standing with me," Anna replied to Paul, he smiled before hugging her. "You go look after your family," Paul told Anna, she laughed as they pulled apart. "You're my family too, Paul. Don't ever forget that," Anna told him before they turned to head in separate directions. Anna let out the breath she had been holding, her fear about the future vision not being enough had faded by the way Sam responded; she felt the genuine emotions in Sam.

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"Your rib is cracked. But there are no splinters. You haven't punctured anything," Carlisle told Bella as he looked at her X-rays of the baby. "Yet," Edward said with a scowl. "Edward," Carlisle warned before motioning at Anna who stood in the doorway with a glare. "It's breaking her bones now," Edward said to Carlisle before looking at Bella, "It's crushing you from the inside out. Carlisle, tell her what you told me. Tell both of them." Anna tensed at the tone of Edward's voice, she bit the inside of her cheek as she dug her nails into her skin. "Carlisle, tell me. It's all right," Bella assured him noticing his hesitance, he sighed.

"The fetus isn't compatible with your body. It's too strong. It won't allow you to get the nutrition you need. It's starving you by the hour," Carlisle expressed while Anna looked down. "I can't stop it and I can't slow it down. At this rate, your heart will give out before you can deliver," Carlisle finished off pulling Anna's attention, she frowned hearing that and Bella noticed her younger sister's tense structure. "Then I'll hold on as long as I can, and then..." Bella was cut off by Carlisle, "Bella. There are some conditions that even venom can't overcome. You understand? I'm sorry." Anna stormed out of the room due to the pessimistic presence, she felt like she was suffocating.

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"You have a lot of faith... how?" Edward's voice pulled Anna from her thoughts, she was staring off in the forest. "You have yourself so convinced that Bella is going to die that you refuse to consider the idea that she's stronger than that. Faith may seem ridiculous to you, Edward but it's all we have," Anna told him without glancing at him. "I won't live without her," Edward replied making Anna scoff. "Seriously?!" Anna snapped as she turned to look at him, "Edward. She won't die. You think I'd let my sister die before her life has begun?" Edward lowered his eyes, Anna opened her mind for him to see what she had seen.

Edward's eyes flicked up to Anna, if he were human, there would be tears in his eyes seeing the face of his daughter. His daughter. Edward gasped before looking towards the room he left Bella in, Anna smiled softly seeing the look in Edward's eyes. She understood him, she couldn't live her life without Jasper but she wouldn't behave the way that Edward was. "You two aren't alone, Edward. And she will survive, I don't need a vision of her alive to prove that when I feel it in my heart," Anna told him before she moved to walk inside. "I'm sorry..." Edward spoke while running his fingers through his hair, Anna turned to him with a raised brow.

"I'm so sorry for what I put you and Jasper through. I was wrong, and still am. I never thought about what the others felt, I only focused on me and truthfully..." Edward trailed off before looking towards the night sky, it was uncharacteristically clear for the small town of Forks but it was certainly peaceful. "I envied the relationship you and Jasper had. I was jealous of the control that Jasper had around you and I hated it... because I knew that you and Jasper were made for each other and that made me realise that... tearing you apart due to my own insecurities and fears was a mistake I can never take back," Edward spoke genuinely.

"I appreciate the apology, Edward. But you wanna know how you can make it up to me?" Anna asked him causing Edward to perk up, he wanted to make up it to his sister-in-law. "How can I make up for my mistake?" Edward asked her. "Be a true husband to your wife. Respect her decision and love her with everything you have right until her dying breath. Support her in the way she'd always support you. And love that baby no matter what will happen," Anna told him softly, she sent him a smile before making her way back inside. She walked into Jasper's room to see him lying back on the bed with his arms behind his head, she bit her lip and made her way over to him.

Anna kicked off her shoes and moved to straddle Jasper's waist, placing her hands on his chest before kissing his jaw. Jasper smirked before he gripped her waist and sat up so their chests were flush together. "You never cease to amaze me, Darling," Jasper whispered to Anna, she smiled knowing he heard her conversation with Edward. "And you never fail to make me feel your love," Anna whispered back before she kissed his lips softly. Jasper leaned back and pulled Anna down with him, she rested her head in the crook of his neck. "We're all going to be okay," Jasper told Anna as he ran his fingers through her hair. "I know, my love," Anna replied as she closed her eyes and savoured the moment.

Chapter Text

"He accepted my choice," Bella told Anna who smiled, the sisters were spending time looking at baby clothes and things for the nursery. "That's good to hear, Bells," Anna replied to her older sister, the two had just been visited by Charlie who had been stunned by the news about Bella but respected her decision despite the fear in his eyes; Anna convinced him the same way she had convinced everyone else. "Honestly, what would we have all done without you?" Bella asked Anna who grinned. "You'll never have to find out," Anna assured her older twin sister before they focused back on the cute outfits on the laptop screen.

Meanwhile, Jasper, Colton, Emmett, Carlisle and Esme had headed off to feed as the pack had ruined the hunting grounds prior to standing down due to Annabeth's warning. This left Edward, Rosalie and Alice with the twins without a clue when Bella would go into labour. Thanks to Jacob, they had learned that the baby was craving blood and they were all relieved to see Bella's body and skin become healthier thanks to her new blood diet. Jacob made his way into the room with Edward following, Anna smiled up at the two before she looked at Bella with a pointed look.

"I decided on a name," Bella told them, Jacob raised a brow at that while Anna grinned; she liked the unique name. "I was playing around with our mom's names. Renée and Esme. And I was thinking... Renesmee," Bella explained to Edward and Jacob, the latter was a little unsure but Edward smiled fondly. "You're certain it's a girl?" Jacob asked them. "I saw her, Jake. She's beautiful but Bella did choose a name for a boy in case my vision was wrong," Anna said before nodding to Bella who smiled. "If it's a boy, EJ. Edward Jacob," Bella told him making Anna laugh as she shook her head fondly while Jacob nodded slightly.

Anna felt an uncomfortable pit in her stomach, she watched as Bella reached for her drink before suddenly, time seemed to slow down for Annabeth as a crack sounded throughout the small space. "Bella!" Anna shouted as she reached to grab her sister safely, her touch sent a wave of warmth through Bella as Anna used her energy to heal Bella enough. "She's going into labour!" Anna told Edward, he rushed over and lifted her into his arms before taking her into Carlisle's office which had been set up for this exact situation. "Rosalie, pass the morphine!" Edward instructed his sister while Anna held her sister's hand, she was using what energy she could to ease her sister but she felt herself draining quicker due to her not feeding enough.

Alice was on the phone to Carlisle who was working on making his way back as quickly as he could. "Carlisle said the placenta must have detached," Alice informs Edward who injects Bella with the morphine. "He's coming as fast as he can, but..." Alice was cut off by Rosalie, "We'll have to do it." Anna was hesitant but she knew Bella's only chance of survival was doing it this way. "Edward," Anna spoke sternly gaining his attention, "I'm gonna focus on keeping her heart going, you focus on saving my niece. Is that understood?" Edward nodded before watching Anna's eyes overlap grey before she closed them and tightened her grip on Bella's hand to focus on keeping her heart alive.

Rosalie cut Bella's stomach open as Jacob stood by them watching, he kept a close eye on Bella and Anna; both twins looked worse for wear. Bella screamed from the pain while Rosalie became distracted by the blood on her hands but before she could consume the blood, a force hit her and sent her out of the room protecting both Bella and Rose. "Save her! You've got to change her!" Jacob ordered Edward as he noticed Anna growing pale, black blood dripping from her nose. "I can't, not whilst she's still in there. I got to get her out first," Edward told Jacob, he wouldn't let his daughter die; he refused to knowing the twins would never forgive him nor would he forgive himself.

"Stay focused, Bella. Keep your heart beating. Work with Anna, together," Jacob told Bella who tried her hardest to stay awake, her twin's extra energy was helping her immensely but she could feel the pain seeping from her into Anna who was beginning to wince as black blood dripped from her eyes. "No! She's suffocating!" Bella warned Edward who began to rip into the embryonic sac with his teeth causing Bella to scream out in pain. Edward finally manages to reach the baby, he pulls her out and smiles down at the sight of her. "She's beautiful," Bella said as she looked up at her daughter and Edward placed her in Bella's arms.

Renesmee lightly bit Bella's finger pulling Bella from her dazed look, Edward took Renesmee back as Anna suddenly collapsed prompting Jacob to catch her head before she hit the ground. Bella's last breath leaves her lips as Anna seems to go still, Jacob looks between the twins with fear in his eyes. "Bella! Bella!" Jacob called out uselessly. Jacob attempted to give Bella CPR while Edward tried to get Jacob to take Renesmee but Jacob refused not wanting to touch the baby that killed his best friend. "Edward. I'll take her. I promise I'll be okay. Let me," Rosalie assured Edward knowing she'd be okay, Edward handed his daughter over to his sister who left the room.

Alice moved toward Anna and pulled her aside as Edward took a syringe filled with his venom and stuck it in Bella's chest, injecting her with his venom. However, it seems that the venom doesn't respond making Edward's eyes widen in fear. "You're okay. Come on. It's supposed to be working," Edward said as he continued to give her CPR. "I won't kill you. That'd be too easy. You deserve to live with this," Jacob sneered at Edward who refused to give up on his wife, Jacob left the room with tears in his eyes. "You're not dead. You're not dead. Come on! No, it will work," Edward pleaded as he bit into her wrists and ankles hoping that more venom would help her survive.

"It will work. Please, please, please, please. Come back to me, please, baby. Bella, Bella, please, please," Edward continued to plead hoping she would open her eyes, his pleas went unanswered but what he didn't realise in his constant words was the sudden thump that echoed from Bella's chest followed by another two sending the venom through her body before it stopped. Anna gasps awake as she feels the presence of the pack, her eyes overlap grey as she pushes away from Alice and rushes outside to sneer at Sam. "I warned you," Anna snapped with a look that sent shivers down their spines. "She's gone, isn't she?" Seth asked from where he stood with Leah.

"Until the venom brings her back," Anna replied to them with such certainty that they had to trust her words. Edward walks outside with Alice by his side, the two stand on either side of Anna ready to fight if they need to. "Are you really going to fight me, Sam?" Anna asked him with he scowl present, almost tempting the Alpha to make a move so she could put them in their place. Despite the pain in his chest, Sam stepped forward ready to pounce when Jacob rushed out and stood in front of Anna. "Stop! It's over! If you kill her, you kill me!" Jacob snapped at the pack. "Jacob imprinted. They can't hurt her. Whoever a wolf imprints on can't be harmed. It's their most absolute law," Edward voiced.

"You won't touch my niece," Jacob threatened with Anna standing by his side, the two ready to protect their niece. Sam growled lightly before he and the pack turned away, Paul stared at his imprint a moment longer before following the pack back to the Reservation. Carlisle approached them upon the pack leaving, Anna stumbled on her feet before she collapsed prompting Jasper to rush towards her and pick her up in his arms. "She's exhausted. She needs to rest," Carlisle reassured his son, Jasper nodded at his father before heading into the house. Edward went to clean himself up as Esme and Alice worked to clean up Bella after Carlisle stitched her up to help the healing process from the venom.

Jasper brushed his fingers through Anna's hair as he watched her chest rise and fall, he had already cleaned her up and changed her into one of his shirts. Anna hadn't woken since she collapsed but Carlisle had already checked her over and chalked it up to exhaustion from energy sharing with Bella to keep her heart beating. Edward, however, was watching Bella carefully as Carlisle approached his son. "She shouldn't be this still," Edward told his father. "It's the morphine," Carlisle assured Edward having full faith that Bella would survive. "Maybe I was too late," Edward replied to Carlisle who shook his head. "No, Edward. Listen to her heart," Carlisle told him as a sudden yet unhealthy slow beat hit.

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Meanwhile, Bianca walks towards the throne room where Aro, Marcus and Caius sit peacefully. She approaches Aro and hands him a letter with a polite smile. "Oh, it's from Carlisle. Which is spelt with an S, sweet Bianca," Aro spoke before motioning for his guards who appeared on either side of Bianca. "He's added two new members," Aro said after reading the letter informing him that both Bella and Anna have gone through the transition. "Ah," Marcus acknowledges while Caius is uneased by Aro's smile. "It seems that Annabeth survived her transition into a Heretic," Aro stated glancing at Caius who remained unphased by the news.

"Increasing their power," Caius replied despite being happy about Anna surviving the turn, he had hope that she would make it through. He knew that Magnolia would have helped from the other side to prove that. Suddenly Aro's guards drag Bianca away as she screams, Aro's sadistic smile rests on his face as he steps closer to his brothers. "First it's the spelling, then the grammar," Aro mocked Bianca's writing clearly glad the woman was being eaten. "At least our dispute with the Cullens are over," Marcus says after taking the note from Aro. "Over?" Aro questioned receiving a hum from Marcus.

"Goodness, no. Our dispute goes far beyond the fate of a mere human and a witch," Aro told his brother. "And what might it be?" Caius asked trying to play off his true concerns. "Why, brother, I thought you understood," Aro said as he turned to look at Caius who raised a brow towards his brother. "They have something I want," Aro added with a sick smile on his face, Caius knew that nothing good would come from Aro's decisions. He couldn't warn the Cullens, he'd risk the life of his mate attempting to warn Anna of Aro's decision. Caius could only hope that the blonde would be prepared to face whatever Aro tried to do, she was the only one strong enough to dethrone Aro; And so Aro would want her dead first.

Chapter Text

Anna stood with Jasper as the air around her shifted, she turned her head towards the room where Bella's body was lying. Anna smiled before glancing at Edward who smiled back, he made his way into the room while Anna approached Rosalie and took Renesmee into her arms, rocking her back and forth as Edward took Bella to quench her thirst. Jasper watched his fiancé with a warmth in his chest, Carlisle took notice of his son's expression. "You'll have that one day," Carlisle told Jasper who smiled at the thought of it. "I wouldn't be against it," Jasper replied as Anna hummed to Renesmee who eased and relaxed in her aunt's embrace.

Edward and Bella made their way into the room with Jacob near them, Anna raised a brow at the shifter who bowed his head. "You ready to hold your daughter?" Anna asked her sister, Bella smiled up at Anna before taking Renesmee into her arms. Anna's heart swelled at the sight of her older sister looking more alive than ever, the way her presence demanded to be looked at was new for Anna but she didn't hate it. Bella had always been an introverted awkward teenager but Anna could see how becoming a vampire seemed to be the very thing she was destined to be; she was made to be a Cold One.

Renesmee, who looks a few months old, tenderly touches Bella's cheek allowing Bella to see an image of herself when she gave birth to Renesmee. "What was that?" Bella asked. "She showed you the first memory she has of you," Edward answered her as Jasper stepped closer to Anna, interlocking their fingers. "Showed me? How?" Bella inquired further. "How do I hear thoughts? How does Alice see the future? She's gifted," Edward replied with a fond smile, his life had brightened incredibly. "I've only been out for two days?" Bella said as she took notice of Renesmee's aging. "Her growth rate is unprecedented," Carlisle informed her while Anna took notice of Jacob's protective thoughts.

"Jacob," Anna warned with a raised brow catching Bella's attention. "What is it?" Bella asked, she knew her sister's tone was a warning to the shifter. "That's enough experimenting for one day," Jacob told her as he stepped closer making Anna and Edward share a glance. "Jacob. She's doing great," Edward told the shifter. "Yeah. Let's not push it though," Jacob replied to him. "Your funeral," Anna muttered with a smirk, she and Emmett shared an amused glance. "What's your problem?" Bella asked him. "This should be good," Emmett said with a smirk, Colton standing next to him with a grin on his face.

"Hold on a second," Edward said before taking Renesmee from his wife's arms. "Bella. Look, it's a wolf thing," Jacob started which only made Anna shake her head amused, she was keen to see Bella handle this. "What's a wolf thing?" Bella asked with a raised voice. "Um... You know we have no control over it. We can't choose who it happens with. And it doesn't mean what you think, Bella. I promise," Jacob explained with caution, his eyes were wide as Bella glared at him. "Take Renesmee out of the room," Bella ordered prompting Rosalie to take her from Edward's arms and out of the room.

"Edward, don't touch me right now. I don't want to hurt you," Bella warned Edward who had placed his hand on her shoulder, he heeded her warning and removed his hand. Bella grabbed the back of Jacob's neck and began dragging him out of the house while Anna laughed, she rushed out behind her and stood on the patio as Bella threw Jacob out onto the grass. "You imprinted on my daughter?!" Bella shouted at Jacob who held his hands up in surrender. "It wasn't my choice!" Jacob snapped back. "She's a baby!" Bella seethed out as Anna leaned back against Jasper's chest, the amused smile never fell from her face.

"It's not like that. You think Edward would let me live if it was? Or Anna?" Jacob replied to Bella making Anna nod in agreement. "I'm still debating it," Edward added with a smirk. "I've held her once!" Bella began aggressively, "One time, Jacob! And already you think you can have some moronic wolfy claim over her? She's mine!" Bella suddenly strikes Jacob hard in the face as Leah and Seth arrive in wolf form. "It's fine, Leah," Jacob told the older Clearwater who was growling at Bella. "You're gonna stay away from her," Bella told Jacob, Anna's amusement faded knowing how important Imprints are; he wouldn't be able to stay away no matter what she said.

"You know I can't do that. Tell her, Anna," Jacob sent a pleading look towards Anna who simply smiled back innocently. Bella punches Jacob hard in the stomach and he falls to the ground, Anna turns to look up at Jasper who is amused too. "Stop her, Edward," Esme told her son. "He said it's fine. She's amazing, right?" Edward replied fondly, it was clear that Edward's love had grown for his mate upon her transition. "Do you remember how much you wanted to be around me three days ago? That's gone now, right?" Jacob asked Bella. "Long gone," Bella snapped back. "Because it was her. From the beginning it was Nessie who wanted me there," Jacob replied to her.

"Nessie? You nicknamed my daughter after the Loch Ness Monster?!" Bella growled causing Jacob to step back. "You gonna help him out?" Jasper asked his mate, "You were the one who chose the nickname Nessie after all." Anna was debating it until she noticed Seth itching to protect his new Alpha. "Alright, enough!" Anna snapped out, the power in her tone made the shifters stand down and Bella stepped back even in anger. "Jacob sees Nessie ─ And yes, I chose the nickname and it stuck ─ as his niece. A shifter imprints on a destined soul, it makes them a protector. Paul is my protector, my brother. And Jacob is Nessie's protector, her uncle," Anna assured her twin.

Bella calmed down hearing her sister's words, the brunette newborn looked at Jacob before lowering her head. "Now... as fun as that was to watch, I haven't gotten a hug yet," Anna told Bella who smiled before the twins embraced each other. "I thought I was going to lose you, you know?" Anna told Bella who frowned at the way Anna's voice wavered. "You never will, Anna. We have forever now," Bella replied as both girls tightened their hug before pulling away from each other. "Yeah, forever. And tomorrow, you'll be seeing Dad who knows everything," Anna told Bella whose eyes widened. "Yeah, I told him. But he accepted it, pretty much knew," Anna added making Bella laugh.

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Back in the house, Jacob is fast asleep on the couch while Anna is reading in the corner enjoying the serenity of their new lives. Bella, holding Renesmee, and Edward stood at the window watching as the Cullens came back from their hunt. Rosalie was the first to enter the house, "Finally. My turn." Anna smiled up at Rosalie who seemed to have a whole new glow about her protecting her niece, Bree had told Anna it was bound to happen. Jasper approached Anna and leaned down to kiss her forehead before grabbing her empty plate and taking it into the kitchen and grabbing a chocolate milk from the fridge for his mate.

"Where does she sleep?" Bella asked Rosalie who was rocking Renesmee back and forth with a soft smile. "In my arms. Or Edward's, or Esme's. Most of the time, she'd sleep peacefully in Anna's arms," Rosalie answered bringing a smile to Bella's face, she looked over to her younger sister as Jasper handed the blonde her chocolate milk which made her grin. Jacob woke up from his nap as Alice walked into the room with Colton following her, the two approached Bella with a grin. "Happy birthday!" Alice cheered making the Swan twins look at her with amused expressions.

"I stopped aging three days ago. Anna stopped months ago," Bella replied to Alice. "Well, we're celebrating anyway. So suck it up," Alice told her before she held out a key to Bella. "Anna?" Bella spoke but the blonde simply smiled knowing about Bella's surprise gift. Alice had already given Anna her gift, a very expensive jewellery set that matched the bloodstone ring Anna wore on her finger at all times. Alice led Bella and Edward out of the house while Jasper shared a look with Carlisle who nodded with a smile of his own. "Darling, I wanna show you something," Jasper said as he held his hand out to his fiancé, Anna took his hand and let him lead her out of the house and in the opposite direction of where Alice, Bella and Edward went.

"What is this about?" Anna asked Jasper as she walked by his side. "Your birthday gift," Jasper replied making Anna furrow her brows. "Love, you didn't need to get me a gift. You are my gift," Anna told her fiancé, her eyes full of adoration for the man beside her. "Let me spoil you," Jasper told her with a smirk, Anna laughed before nodding. Jasper covered Anna's eyes and helped her walk through the woods until they reached their destination, he took in a steady breath to ease himself before removing his hands from her eyes. "Welcome home, darling," Jasper whispered into Anna's ear as she looked up at the house with wide eyes.

"It's beautiful, Jas. Just like I described," Anna breathed out with watery eyes though tears wouldn't fall. "Wanna head inside?" Jasper asked her, she nodded before letting him lead her into the home. "Alice obviously helped decorate but I figured you would love the style I went for," Jasper told her as she walked around admiring the living room. "You always spoke about how you loved my room design," Jasper added as he felt Anna's emotions, the pure happiness that waved through him eased his anxious mind. "This is everything I've dreamed of, Jas," Anna said before she walked over to him, cupping his face in her hands before kissing him passionately; Jasper grasping her hips and pulling her closer.

"How long have you been working on this home because it ain't no small cabin?" Anna asked as she pulled back enough to look Jasper in the eyes. "Since I returned to Forks," Jasper replied, Anna raised a brow at that. "Before the newborns?" Anna asked him with a small smile on her face. "The blueprints were created from the moment you claimed me as yours," Jasper told her sheepishly but it made Anna's chest warm. "I love you so much, Jasper," Anna whispered to Jasper. "I love you, darling. Till the stars fall from the sky," Jasper replied before smirking, "Now... want to see the bedroom?" Anna giggled as Jasper lifted her up and carried her to the bedroom, kicking the door closed behind him.

Chapter Text

Anna and Bella were sitting together on the couch in the living room of the Cullens house, they were smiling as Jasper entertained Renesmee with a smile on his own. "You once told me that you wouldn't want kids. Has that changed knowing you can still have them?" Bella asked Anna upon seeing the look in her sister's eyes. "I mean... the idea of having a child terrified me as a human. The risks, the labour, the potential dangers for the baby... But as an immortal, a Heretic... it seems different. Like, there are no risks which makes it more appealing but..." Anna trailed off with a sigh, "But I need to be certain that our battles are done. That if I end up having a child, which I'm no longer against, they were safe."

Bella nodded, she understood what Anna was saying and respected that decision but she did hope that Anna would give motherhood a chance one day. It was clear that she would eventually based on the vision Anna had seen of Renesmee, Sam's son and Anna's own son. The twin set turned their heads to Jasper and Renesmee, Anna smiled fondly watching Jasper who was making Renesmee laugh by tickling her; the giggles filled the room with a sense of joy. However, Anna's attention was taken when a sharp pain split through her head gaining everyone's attention, she lowered her head into her hands as Jasper rushed over to her after Bella took Renesmee from him.

"Darling, what is it?" Jasper asked Anna, she whimpered from the pain while Jasper became alerted by the black blood dripping from her ears. "Someone screaming... they're in pain... pleading for help," Anna breathed out through winces before her eyes rolled into the back of her head, falling forward prompting Jasper to catch her in his arms. "Edward?" Bella questioned hoping he saw what she did but he shook his head. "It was flashes but I saw red hair, blood and... I saw Jane," Edward told them with worried eyes. Jasper lifted Anna into his arms and headed towards his former bedroom to lay her down.

"If Jane was present then it connects to the Volturi, right?" Colton asked as Jasper walked back down, he had made sure his love was okay. "You said you saw someone else," Carlisle asked Edward who nodded. "She had red hair or more of an auburn colour. And green eyes but she was terrified and in pain," Edward explained while Bella frowned. "But why is my sister connected?" Bella asked making Jasper sigh. "Because ever since you and Anna saved Edward, Anna has been watching the Volturi's every step and decision," Jasper answered her causing the family to turn to him. "She was warned by Caius and she had... a bad feeling about Aro's intentions," He added.

"So she's been watching him this whole time?" Emmett asked. "Well, Anna's visions are more set in stone than Alice's. That's why Alice gets more visions because they face possible changes based on decisions while Anna's are rare and set in stone," Jasper replied to him. "Her name is Marin Campbell. She's a Banshee in Colorado," Anna spoke as she walked down the steps, her eyes overlapped grey. "Jane is looking for someone but I couldn't catch the name. But she did mention a weapon to destroy the Della Witch ," Anna added as the grey in her eyes faded, she swallowed carefully while every shared looks of concern. "Aro killed Magnolia, makes sense he'll want to kill me. I'm a hybrid," Anna finished off with a sigh.

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"Dad, you are stressing over nothing," Anna said with an eye roll as she led Charlie into the house, Bella had been given the lesson in looking human despite Charlie knowing about Bella's new lifestyle. "I don't want to make her uncomfortable if this is too soon--" Charlie is cut off by Anna who rolls her eyes, "Dad. It'll be fine. Between Jasper's incredible abilities of empathy and my own little spell, Bella won't feel an ounce of thirst around you." Charlie nodded at Anna's words, he was relieved to hear that despite how insane his life had become. "Now if you're done panicking like an old woman, can we go see Bella before she thinks you're backing out," Anna asked Charlie who laughed and nodded.

The two made their way up the stairs to where Bella was sitting, the brunette smiled at Charlie as her thirst eased enough to allow her to hug her father, remembering to be gentle due to her strength. "Hey, Bella," Charlie said as he held his eldest daughter, a smile on his face due to the relief of his daughter's wellbeing. "Hi, Dad," Bella replied before they pulled away, Bella sitting down on the chair while Charlie sat on the couch. "Are you okay?" Charlie asked Bella as Anna motioned for Jacob and Edward to follow her out of the room. "We'll give you both some privacy," Edward said before the three walked out, Anna sending Bella a reassuring look as she left the room.

"Are you two going to Colorado?" Edward asked Anna and Jasper, the two shared a look before Anna nodded. "I need to find Marin before Jane does," Anna told Edward. "If you need any backup, just call and we'll be there," Edward replied to her with a reassuring smile. "I'll keep it in mind. Gotta start packing," Anna told them, "You better go introduce my dad to his granddaughter." Edward nodded before he walked past the couple, Jasper looked at Anna who sighed. "This will be an interesting trip, huh?" Anna asked her beloved. "We'll be just fine," Jasper told her before kissing her forehead.

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Anna climbed out of the car and let out a breath of air, she smiled at Jasper before they made their way into the hotel they were staying at during their time in Colorado. "Checking in. Name should be under Hale," Jasper told the woman behind the counter, the ravenette smiled flirtatiously at Jasper while batting her lashes. "Of course, Mr Hale. Queen or twin?" She said with an airy tone that made Anna bite back an amused smile. Jasper knew the woman was flirting but he didn't like it, even with Anna finding amusement in it rather than jealousy which gave Jasper a sense of pride in his fiancé; she trusted him and truly knew that no one else would be the one for him.

Jasper's arm wrapped around Anna's waist pulling her closer with a smile, "Queen. My fiancé and I want the best the hotel has to offer." The receptionist scowled at the arm wrapped around Anna's waist before smiling sweetly at Jasper, "We do whatever we can to ensure you are treated to the standard you deserve. Whatever you need, you get." Anna bit her lip to fight the urge to laugh at the woman's consistent attempt to flirt. "No need to worry about that. My fiancé gives it to me good," Jasper told her making Anna laugh and shake her head. "If you don't mind keeping it in your pants, we'd like our key, hon," Anna said kindly, the sweet act threw the receptionist off.

Jasper pouted as Anna laughed, the two walked into their room and put their bags to the side. "What's so funny?" Jasper asked as he closed the door and locked it. "She worked so hard to get a reaction out of me and the way you brushed her off was funny. It's like you don't realise how attractive you are," Anna answered him with a shake of her head. Jasper rolled his eyes before he rushed over to her, grabbed her waist and pulled her with him onto the bed. "My heart belongs to you... you are the only person I see and the only one whose opinion I care about," Jasper told her before he kissed her softly, Anna moaned in delight as her hands trailed under Jasper's shirt urging him to continue.

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Anna sipped from her glass, her eyes flitting around the bar she had seen Marin working in through a vision. Jasper was watching from a booth in the corner, the two decided to split up to lessen attention on them. Anna was wearing a tight black dress that continued to distract Jasper whenever he looked in her direction, he thought she looked delicious and ever since the two had marked each other, they had become more inseparable and insatiable for one another. Anna spotted Marin as she walked behind the bar from the back room, she looked paranoid as she looked around before she began to serve customers. Anna finished her drink before tapping the bar signalling a refill.

Marin approached her and filled the glass before looking up into Anna's unnatural stormy blue-grey eyes causing the blonde to smirk at the ginger. "Hello, Marin. We need to talk," Anna told the ginger who swallowed back her urge to scream, she whimpered slightly and Anna noticed prompting the blonde to chant a spell that made the wail fade. "I mean you no harm, Marin. I'm here to help you," Anna reassured the ginger before leaning forward. "You see, I'm certain that you know exactly what I am," Anna questioned receiving a nod from the ginger, "And I know that you're a Banshee. With a Wail that could kill me with enough force."

Marin looked around the room before focusing back on Anna, "They said you would come. She said that I had to kill you to protect my family." Jasper heard those words and tightened his grip on his glass, he clenched his jaw and fought the urge to grab Anna and run. "Let me guess, a short blonde with blood eyes, possibly accompanied by a boy that matches her yet has darker hair?" Anna asked as she swirled the little umbrella in her glass. "Uh, yes," Marin responded. "Jane and Alec, the Volturi Twins. They deem me a threat but you want the truth?" Anna asked Marin who hesitantly nodded.

Anna's eyes overlapped grey as she chanted a spell to allow Marin to see some of her memories, proof that Anna wasn't a threat to Marin or her family of Banshees. "I don't want to hunt down Banshees, Marin. I want to live happily and peacefully alongside my love and my family. Does that make me a threat?" Anna asked Marin who shook her head. "You saw me die?" Marin asked with a frown, Banshees typically predicted their own deaths but she didn't see hers. "I saw you being tortured but your death wasn't confirmed. It's why I am here. To protect you and help protect whoever you care for," Anna reassured the ginger.

Marin had hesitation in her eyes but Anna considered that normal, she wouldn't force the ginger to leave with her. "Okay... but my brother and my parents?" Marin asked with fear pooling in her eyes as Jasper made his way over, placing his hand on Anna's shoulder. "We'll organise someone to watch over them," Jasper told her, Anna smiled fondly at her mate before looking at Marin. "Well, let's get you packed. Forks awaits," Anna told Marin who nodded. Marin convinced her boss to let her leave early, she packed her things and got into the back of Jasper's rental. "And the twins?" Marin asked Anna who smirked. "I win again," Anna said knowing Jane will be fuming.

Chapter Text

Anna sighed as Marin sat awkwardly in the living room of the Cullen household, she seemed to be cautious about being surrounded by vampires. "Marin, you're okay. No one in here is going to hurt you," Anna assured the ginger as steps sounded from the stairs, following behind Bella and Edward was Jacob. Marin's breath hitched as she locked eyes with Jacob, she swallowed carefully as Anna watched the Banshee's eyes shine green for a moment before fading; a smirk appeared on Anna's face knowing enough about Banshee's to know that they had a Soul Fragment Bond. Banshee's could connect to another species in a way that was similar to Imprints but it was more commonly romantic.

For a Banshee to have a Fragment Bond with a shifter meant that Jacob's soul was pure, he was destined to be loved with every part of Marin's soul. Jacob shared a look with Anna and took notice of her smug smirk before focusing back on Marin who suddenly clasped her hand over her mouth. "Marin?" Anna asked as she realised what was happening, Anna rushed forward and blocked Marin's Banshee Wail as much as she could. Anna stumbled back into Jasper's hold, black blood seeping from her ears from the impact of Marin's scream. "Oh, God... I'm sorry," Marin whimpered with fear of herself in her eyes. "She's okay," Jacob offered, he didn't like the fear he saw in her beautiful eyes.

"This is not okay... I'm dangerous around witches... even a Hybrid," Marin warned them but Anna simply laughed at that. "Marin, it isn't a Banshee's Wail of Death that can kill me. It's a focused Scream of Power or a Banshee's blade which only the Elders carry and they stay away from Vampires," Anna explained to Marin after Jasper wiped the blood away, the blonde moved towards Marin again and sat down next to her. "I promise, I am okay. Plus, I heal quickly so you don't have to worry," Anna told her with a toothy grin, Marin relaxes at the words. "Now, Marin, this is Jacob Black. Jacob, this is Marin Campbell. As you can see, she's a Banshee but she's a little more special than you think," Anna told Jacob with a wink.

"I'm gonna go spend time with my sister and niece while Jacob will look after you," Anna added as she stood up with a teasing smirk directed at a now blushing Marin. "Have fun," Anna called out as she left the room with Bella following her, the twins stopped by Rosalie's room and smiled seeing Renesmee playing with her aunt. Anna was worried, she had only been gone a short time but Renesmee had aged quickly and she now looked to be around six years old. The three of them headed off into the snowy mountains, the twins watched as Renesmee caught snowflakes with her unique abilities. "Look, a snowflake," Renesmee showed her mother and aunt with a smile.

"It's beautiful. Why don't you go get another one?" Bella asked her, Renesmee nodded before moving toward the small space to catch more snowflakes. "Edward thinks that we'll find answers in Brazil. There are tribes there that might know something," Bella explained to Anna who sighed, she rested her arm around Bella's shoulders. "Hopefully we'll find those answers. But either way, Bella, I don't see anything but good in Renesmee's future," Anna expressed to Bella who smiled before the two continued watching Renesmee when a figure appeared in the distance watching them. "Who's that?" Renesmee asked as the twins stepped closer to her.

"I think that's our cousin from Denali. Irina!" Bella called out to gain Irina's attention, hoping to have the blonde come to them. However, looking visibly upset at seeing Renesmee, Irina turns and runs off before Bella can speak with her. "We need to get back," Anna warned, Bella grabbed Renesmee and the three of them rushed back home to inform the others of what had happened. Carlisle immediately got in contact with the Denali coven in hopes of explaining the situation, he was concerned that Irina may have misjudged the sight and may have thought that Renesmee was a turned immortal child rather than a baby born of a vampire and a human with witch blood.

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"Tanya convinced Irina to come reconcile with us," Carlisle explained what he had learned from Tanya. "It looks like she changed her mind," Edward commented. "I think she may have seen something she misjudged," Anna voiced with concern, she looked at Carlisle who shared the same concerned expression. "I wish I could have just spoken to her," Bella told them with a pout. "She's family. She'll come around," Carlisle said before Anna furrowed her brows, she felt a slight ache in her head causing her to sit down. "Anna?" Bella spoke catching the pained expression on her face. "V-Vision..." Anna muttered as she closed her eyes and let the vision play like a movie on the back of her eyelids.

Irina approaches the doors of the Volturi's throne room, Aro looks up at her with a fond polite smile. "What a pleasant surprise," Aro speaks as Marcus and Caius watch on. "What do you want? Hmm?" Caius questioned with his usual scowl. "I have to report a crime. The Cullens... They've done something terrible," Irina informed them with a worried expression. "Allow me, my dear," Aro offered to take Irina's hand, he saw the images that Irina had witnessed of Renesmee. "Oh, my," Aro breathed out, a glint in his eyes showing how happy he was to be able to end the Olympic Coven. Caius, however, is uneasy about the look knowing that whatever has happened will not be good.

"What is it, Anna?" Jasper asked as he knelt in front of her. "The Volturi... They're coming for us. Aro, Caius, Marcus, the Guard... And Irina," Anna explained as Colton held Alice who had seen a similar vision. "Why?" Carlisle asked the two. "What did Irina see in the woods?" Edward asked but Anna shook her head with a sigh. "Irina believes Renesmee to be an immortal child," Anna explained as she looked up at Carlisle, the Coven leader looked down as he realised his concerns were real. "An immortal child?" Marin questioned from where she stood next to Jacob, his questioning glance focused on the Coven leader.

"The Immortal Children were very beautiful. So enchanting. To be near them was to love them. But their development was frozen at the age they were turned," Carlisle explained as Anna grabbed Jasper's hand, he had moved to sit next to her. "They couldn't be taught or restrained. A single tantrum could destroy a whole village. Humans heard about the devastation. Stories spread. The Volturi were forced to intervene since the Children couldn't protect our secret, they had to be destroyed," Carlisle informed them, Anna frowned as she was hit with a vision of Irina's mother screaming for her immortal child, Jasper noticed the pained expression on his mates face; he knew she was seeing the past.

"Their creators grew very attached and fought to protect them. Long-established covens were torn apart. Countless humans, slaughtered. Traditions, friends, even families. Lost," Carlisle finished as Anna escaped the vision of the Volturi killing the Immortal Child. "So the Denali's mother made an Immortal Child?" Anna asked as she leaned into Jasper, exhaustion in her eyes. "Yes. And she paid the price. The Volturi decapitated Irina's mother and burned the Immortal Child," Carlisle answered her. "Well, Renesmee's nothing like those children. She was born, not bitten. She grows every single day," Edward expressed, it was clear he was worried about the outcome.

"So can't you just explain that to the Volturi?" Jacob asked as he crossed his arms, his gaze flitting from his niece to Marin. "Aro has enough proof in Irina's thoughts," Alice answered him while Anna ran her fingers through her hair. "Caius is weary, he doesn't trust Irina or Aro but he won't defy Aro for the sake of Athenodora, which is why I won't ask him to defy Aro," Anna voiced with a frown, she understood that Caius held his regrets for Magnolia but she wouldn't use that against him when he had his own to protect; And Aro is ruthless in his choices, especially to deviants. "So we fight," Jacob said with determination. "Their offensive weapons are too powerful. No one can stand against Jane," Colton spoke up.

"Oh please, I could floor them in seconds," Anna said with a grin. "But it'd kill you," Marin said softly, she took in a deep breath. "The power you would need against the entire Volturi would be too much on you due to your Hybrid status. You'd have to feed on human blood and then focus every last drop of your soul's energy to take them all down," Marin informed Anna despite the blonde knowing that she was ready to sacrifice herself for the safety of her family. "I won't let you do that," Jasper told Anna sternly, the look in his eyes made her shiver from the intensity; he wouldn't lose her. "Well, then we convince them," Bella spoke up hoping to avoid her sister becoming a weapon.

"They're coming to kill us, not to talk," Emmett added. "No, you're right. They won't listen to us. But maybe others can convince them," Edward expressed before turning to his father, "Carlisle, you have friends all around the world." Anna raised a brow at Edward's words. "I won't ask them to fight," Carlisle told him. "Not fight, witness. If enough people knew the truth, maybe we could convince the Volturi to listen," Edward informed him. Esme turned to Carlisle, "We can ask this of our friends." With a plan set, the coven split up to connect with friends to be witnesses to Renesmee's truth. Anna was still worried so she made her way into Alice's room with a plan set, the two agreed and heading out in different directions.

Chapter Text

Alice and Colton had left, and Sam delivered a note informing the family of a simple message; Gather as many witnesses as you can before the snow sticks to the ground. That's when they'll come. Anna knew that the others were feeling uneasy about Alice and Colton leaving but the blonde knew what they were doing, she trusted that they would find what they were looking for. Bella and Edward headed to the Denali coven while Anna and Jasper headed to a contact that Grandma Rose had given them. The blonde was sitting in the passenger seat of Jasper's new Camaro, she was watching the trees go by, her mind trailing back to the vision she saw.

"It's gonna be okay," Jasper told his mate after taking notice of the anxiety coming off of her in waves. "I've seen two outcomes, Jas," Anna admitted to him, Jasper furrowed his brows hearing that. "How?" Jasper asked her. The one thing they knew perfectly about Anna's seer ability was the vision was always set in stone, the final outcome of the decisions at play. "I think the outcome is dependent on my choice," Anna answered him, she turned to look at Jasper with a small frown. "I hold the fate of what happens next," Anna added before looking back out the window, she wouldn't tell him what she saw, he knew that; but he was scared, scared for the decision his mate may make.

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Jasper and Anna arrived in Kansas a few days later, they were both unsteady due to the situation and Anna's secretive fate. Jasper checked the two in at a hotel while Anna made a call to Esme who had headed to London alongside Carlisle in search of an old friend as another witness. Anna couldn't see what their friends choice would be, which only made her feel more uneasy than before. When the couple headed to their room, Anna fell back on the bed and closed her eyes before running her fingers through her hair. Jasper leaned against the wall watching his mate as she tried to see more futures in hopes of getting a better answer, however, nothing seemed to flash before her eyes.

"I know you, Anna. I know you want to take the sacrificial route to save everyone but I trust in Edward's plan," Jasper said as Anna opened her eyes, she stared up at the ceiling knowing that Jasper would refuse her plan. "What if it's the better way? Everyone else lives," Anna replied to him as she sat up and looked at Jasper. "Everyone except you, right?" Jasper asked her, Anna looked down at that, she couldn't look Jasper in the eyes. "I am not losing you, Annabeth. So don't even think about it," Jasper said sternly but fear was clear in his eyes, he knew the risks but at the end of the day, he wouldn't lose his mate in this fight; he would grab her and run if he had to.

Anna stayed quiet before she walked over to her suitcase and grabbed out the paper that held the address she needed, Anna looked up at Jasper and sighed. "I'm gonna have a shower, then we'll head to Gram's contact," Anna told him before walking into the bathroom with her bag, Jasper looked down with a frown; the two experiencing their first fight and honestly, he didn't like it. But Jasper had a right to be so protective and possessive over Anna, he waited so long for his mate, and with their Bound Marks, their bond was stronger; he would prioritize her over everyone else, Hell, he'd go insane without her and lose control.

Anna knew it was stupid for her to be more focused on the sacrificial side of her visions, she had seen two outcomes and for some reason, she doubted the other plan more than anything. She wouldn't watch her family die if she had the power to stop it, She knew Jasper wouldn't let her die but it was something he'd had to accept if that was the only way to save everyone. Her grandmother once told her that just because she had the power to do something, doesn't mean she has to do it; but right now, with her family's lives on the line, Anna is willing to accept that her choices are the main component to their survival.

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Anna and Jasper approached the door and knocked, the blonde looked around the quaint neighbourhood as the door opened to reveal a face that Anna hadn't seen in years. "Declan?!" Anna gasped as the man smiled and pulled her into a hug, Jasper watching cautiously. "Annabeth Swan, you look stunning," Declan complimented before turning his head to Jasper, looking him up and down before smirking. "And just who is this delicious man?" Declan asked as he pulled away from Anna who rolled her eyes playfully. "Declan, meet my fiancé, Jasper Hale. Jasper, this is Declan. We grew up together," Anna introduced with a happy glint in her eyes.

"Fiancé? You're engaged and I only learn about it now?" Declan questioned with a faux upset expression that faded to a grin. "Yeah, And Bella's married," Anna told him causing Declan's eyes to widen. "Holy─ How?" Declan asked before moving aside to let the couple walk into his home. "She fell in love with someone who saw past her awkward nature," Anna said before remembering that this was her grandmother's contact. "She fell in love with a vampire," Anna added receiving an understanding nod back. "Now that makes sense. Vampires like the shy, awkward ones better," Declan teased before looking up at Jasper, "Except him. He chose you, huh?"

Anna huffed a laugh as she sat down on the couch, Jasper taking the spot next to her as Declan sat down across from them. "So, if you know about the Supernatural, what are you?" Anna asked Declan who grinned as he leaned back comfortably, his arms on the back of the couch. "I am a warlock," Declan answered her, his eyes changing from their normal blue to green cat-like eyes. "Huh, well, I wasn't expecting that," Anna replied as she leaned back in her seat. "Well, your grandmother had me looking after you as you grew up to make sure your power ─ should it show ─ wouldn't be found by those who use it for themselves," Declan explained to her as he conjured mugs.

"Anyway, I'd assume that you are here looking for a witness to that niece of yours," Declan asked with a teasing smirk. "You knew we were coming," Anna stated matter-of-factly. "From the moment you drove into town," Declan teased with a wink. "And? Will you?" Anna inquired as she sipped the mug, raising a brow at Declan as she relished the familiar taste of animal blood. "It's the blood of a cougar," Declan said, Jasper looking at the mug in front of him before reaching for it; they hadn't fed in a while so it wouldn't hurt to have some. "And as for your question, I will happily stand with you," Declan said receiving a smile from Anna before he continued, "However, I suggest you drop that plan of blasting power to kill the Volturi."

Anna cleared her throat at that while Jasper looked from Declan to Anna, the blonde glared at Declan but the warlock was unbothered by her expression. "I have a vested interest in a certain member of the Volturi," Declan said but anyone could see the love and adoration within his eyes. "Who?" Anna asked as she tried to work out who he could love. "Demetri," Declan answered her, he smiled as he looked off into the distance with a dazed expression. "Demetri Volturi is my mate and I'd prefer to have a life with him rather than my childhood friend obliterating him to atoms," Declan expressed but by his tone, he was warning her that he'd stop her if she tried to kill his mate.

With another witness ready to stand with them, Anna and Jasper headed back to the hotel for the night. Jasper watched as Anna sat down on the bed and ran her fingers through her hair, she was clearly stressed out of her mind about the whole situation but he was eased knowing that Anna wouldn't go the sacrificial route to stop the Volturi; she wouldn't take Declan's mate from him. "It's gonna work out, Darling. Trust Alice and Colton," Jasper assured her as he walked over, he knelt in front of her as she sat up. "And when it does, we'll all be happy and free," Jasper added as he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her closer to the edge of the bed. "I love you, Anna," Jasper whispered looking up at Anna. "I love you, Jasper," Anna whispered back before they kissed.

Chapter Text

Many had come to witness Renesmee; friends from all over the world had shown up in support of the Olympic Coven and it made Anna's heart grow. She noticed that each new vampire that had shown up had gifts of their own that astounded the Swan Twins. With Benjamin's gift of controlling elements, Zafrina's ability to create illusions, and Eleazar's ability to decipher one's abilities. Anna leaned back against the wall when a familiar voice echoed through the Cullen's household, she grinned before rushing forward and stopping a few feet ahead of them.

"GARRETT!" Anna shouted with a grin, Garrett turned to the blonde and smiled widely. "My, my, little Annie," Garrett spoke before she rushed forward and hugged him leaving the others within the room stunned. "How do you know each other?" Emmett asked with a confused expression. "He's my friend who saved me. Garrett was the one who taught me about Vampires," Anna answered as she pulled back from Garrett's embrace. "It's good to see you again, old friend," Anna told him as he took in her Vampiric appearance mixed with a witch. "And it's nice to see you've adapted," Garrett teased making her roll her eyes.

More and more witnesses showed up and the Vampires who lived off of human blood caused Bella worry but Anna knew they would leave the town alone. She had personally spoken with the Irish Coven along with the Nomads that Emmett and Rosalie had contacted; they all agreed to hunt in Seattle but with caution or they'd face Anna's full fury and none wanted that. However, when Charlotte and Peter had shown up, Anna was happy to see the joy on Jasper's face seeing his best friend again. Charlotte and Anna caught up with each other, Anna bragging about her new life as a Heretic.

The Cullens had opened their home to eighteen vampires and a warlock, it was no secret that Marin and Jacob were uneased by the presence of vampires but Anna was quick to notice how Jacob kept the Banshee by his side at all times; something that she adored greatly. However, with the presence of Vampires in the territory, more Quileutes were transforming and creating a larger pack for Sam to teach and train. Anna had offered to help however she could but Sam and Paul suggested it was best to stay away until the new shifters had been taught to control their instincts upon shifting for the first time.

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The day after Carlisle and Esme returned with their final witness, Alistair, the witnesses stood in the clearing outside the Cullen household. Anna had requested to see the gifts herself and Edward had encouraged it so the twins could be tested in regards to their mind shields. The first to show off their gift was Zafrina who had power over the mind, she could make anyone see what she wanted them to and it was proven when she did it to Edward who had been holding Bella's hand; the one thing grounding him and preventing him from being lost to the illusion.

"Edward, you didn't tell me your wife is a shield. Nor her sister," Eleazar spoke up as he walked towards them, Zafrina lowering her illusion. "What's a shield?" Bella asked Edward while Anna leaned back against the tree with a smirk, she had noticed that Jasper's ability was the only one that could break through the Swan Twins' mind shield; Alice could see their futures because there was no power to shield that. "The ones I've met are so different," Edward replied to her while Anna nodded, even her shield was different from Bella's; Anna couldn't project her shield but with the right push, she believed Bella could.

"It's a defensive talent," Eleazar informed her, Anna casually eating a chocolate bar behind them as Garrett approached her and nudged her shoulder making her poke her tongue out at him. "It's why I couldn't read your mind, even before. It's why Aro couldn't," Edward explained to Bella. "You have a very powerful gift," Eleazar added as Kate grabbed Bella's hand, sending through electricity that resulted in no response from Bella who felt nothing. "She's wonderful," Garrett muttered to Anna who smirked. "Interested?" Anna asked Garrett who nodded willingly, Anna laughed to herself before focusing back on the scene before her.

"Oh, yeah, she's a shield, all right," Kate said before letting go of Bella's hand, she turned her head to Anna and held up her hand wishing to test it on her too. Anna smirked as she sped forward allowing Kate to grab her hand, the electricity simply tingled against her skin but other than that, it did not harm her. "Sorry gorgeous," Anna told Kate who laughed before letting go, Anna winked at her before moving to stand with Jasper who had walked out upon witnessing Kate's gift on Bella; he knew Kate would test Anna and Jasper was ready to intervene if needed.

"Shoulda been put on their asses," Kate said with mild disappointment but a lot of intrigue, it was always interesting to witness a shield. "Or your voltage has been exaggerated," Garrett taunted making Anna snort, she leaned into Jasper with a grin. "Well, old friend, try it yourself," Anna told him with an encouraging nod. "Yeah, maybe it only works on the weak," Kate added as she held up her hand. "Garrett, I wouldn't," Carlisle warned as Garrett raised his pointer finger to push against Kate's palm. "Or please do it," Anna muttered making Jasper laugh as Marin and Declan walked over to watch; the two had become friends in a short time.

Garrett pushed his pointer finger against Kate's palm eliciting a shockwave through his body causing him to drop to his knees, Anna laughed as Jasper wrapped his arms around her. "You are an amazing woman," Garrett complimented making Kate smile. Anna's attention turned to the woods, she tensed up as she picked up the sound of feet running through the forest at a vampiric speed. "Someone's coming," Anna muttered for the others to hear, they all turned their heads to the sound before Anna picked up on the sound of wolves growling. "And Jacobs on their tail," Anna said before she moved forward to cut the newcomers off.

She, along with Jasper, Edward, Bella, and Carlisle had approached the two new vampires who were sitting up on a rock out of reach of the shifters. Anna rested her hands on two of the newer pups while Bella eased Jacob who in turn told the third pup to calm down. "Vladimir, Stefan," Carlisle greeted, it was then that Anna noticed Kate, Eleazar, and Tanya had followed. "You're a long way from home," Carlisle continued as Stefan stared directly at Anna, the blonde raised a brow as she allowed her mind to relax and seep into his. "The Heretic is true. What a pretty sight," Stefan's thoughts echoed through Anna's mind and in turn, Edward's.

Anna and Edward shared a look before Anna moved closer to Jasper's embrace, Edward didn't like the underlying tone of Stefan's thoughts. "What are they doing here?" Kate asked with a glare on her face, it was clear that the presence of Vladimir and Stefan was an unwelcome one and the Swan Twins were uneasy. "We heard the Volturi were moving against you. But that you would not stand alone," Vladimir answered with a grin. "We didn't do what we were accused of," Carlisle expressed to the Romanian Vampires. "We do not care what you did, Carlisle," Vladimir responded to the Coven leader.

"We have been waiting a millennium for the Italian scum to be challenged," Stefan spoke up as his gaze moved from Anna to Carlisle. "There will be no fight," Anna said sternly, she moved forward to stand with Carlisle, her eyes daring either to test her. "We have numbers to witness the truth of the alleged crime, not numbers for your revenge," Anna added while Stefan and Vladimir sneered down at her. "Ah, you are the famous Della Freya of our time. A Heretic with the ability to wipe the Volturi from the map and yet, you do nothing," Stefan seethed out. "I do nothing because even if the Volturi are not ideal, they keep the Vampires like you in check," Anna replied to him with her own sneer.

"It is not in our interest to fight," Carlisle said as Jasper pulled Anna back into his chest, the Heretic let out steady breaths to calm herself. "Shame. Aro's witnesses will be so disappointed," Vladimir taunted. "They enjoy a good fight," Stefan added with a chuckle, Vladimir smirking. "Aro's witnesses?" Eleazar asked Carlisle. "Aww, still hoping they'll listen?" Vladimir teased with a fake pout. "They'll listen. Trust me on that," Anna said with her eyes overlapping grey, she smirked at the way both Vladimir and Stefan recoiled in fear before she turned and walked away knowing she'd kill the two Romanians if she stayed any longer.

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The Cullens, Jacob, Marin, Declan, and the witnesses all made themselves comfortable in the main room of the Cullen household. Anna was leaning back in Jasper's arms with Charlotte and Peter sitting by them while Bella sat with Jacob and Marin. "When Aro wants someone from a coven it's never long before evidence turns up proving that coven committed some crime," Eleazar spoke from where he stood. "So he's done this before?" Bella asked. "It happens so rarely, I never realized it was a pattern," Eleazar responded to her as the others listened carefully, though it didn't deter Anna's determination to stand against Aro.

"Apparently he always pardons one person whose thoughts he claims are repentant," Carlisle informed the group. "This person always has an ability. And they're always given a place with the Guard," Eleazar continued while Anna frowned, she knew that Aro wanted Edward, Alice, Bella, and herself as members of his guard due to their gifts; Even Jasper would be of use to Aro, they knew that. "This is all about Alice. He has no one like her," Edward spoke up, Anna and Bella shared a look. Bella knew that Anna was hiding something, she knew more than she was letting on but Anna was sworn to secrecy and wouldn't reveal Alice's plans.

"Which is why she left," Bella said receiving a subtle nod from Anna, though the blonde had seen something more recent and she could only hope her vision came true. "Why does he need witnesses?" Emmett asked the question a few wished to know. "To spread the word that justice has been served. After he slaughters an entire coven," Alistair answered him before his eyes honed in on Anna who scoffed. "You're scared, admit it," Anna said to Alistair who stayed silent, she shook her head. "You all are. Terrified of the Volturi when there is no reason to be," Anna continued as she stood up, "There won't be a damn fight and if there is, then I'm willing to die for the ones I love. Are you? "

Anna stormed out of the home and into the woods, she sped off into the deep forest and stopped by the ravine that splits the two territories. Anna closed her eyes as she sat down on the edge, her mind cleared as she focused on the sounds around her and allowed her body to relax. She knew that Edward shared the same belief as her, for the first time since she met Edward, the two were on the same mindset; they'd both fight to their last breath to protect their family. "We weren't always close but I'm glad we are on the same path," Edward's voice pulled Anna from her thoughts, she turned to him as he sat with her. "And will they?" Anna asked knowing he would have asked the witnesses to fight. "We'll see," Edward told her before they enjoyed the peace of the forest.

Chapter Text

Anna leaned against the bookshelf in the room with Edward sitting on the couch, Emmett seated near him and Carlisle sat to the right of Edward on a separate couch. Garrett stood with Kate and Bella who were also in the room, and Marin standing by Declan with her arms crossed and a worried expression on her face. "Aro will want us incapacitated before he attacks. Jane and Alec will try and take me out first because I can anticipate their moves. They may even target Anna," Edward expressed, the blonde nodding in agreement with his words; they would be their main targets to eliminate.

"Too bad we don't all have your shield," Garrett said to Bella, Anna smirked at her sister before looking at Edward; since their shared conversation, she had allowed Edward access to her main thoughts but nothing more. "Doesn't help me fight, though," Bella said from where she stood near Garrett and Kate. "No, but you could help the rest of us if you could project it," Tanya voiced from where she stood near Eleazar, the blonde looking at Anna who nodded. "She's right. I can't project my shield but with the right push, you could," Anna explained to her older sister.

"What do you mean?" Bella asked Tanya and Anna. "We mean shield someone other than yourself," Tanya answered her. "Is that possible?" Bella asked Carlisle. "Gifts can be developed. Over time," Carlisle answered her with a slight nod. "At first, mine was just in my palms. Now I can radiate it all over my body," Kate explained to Bella. "How do you do it?" Bella asked Kate, taking her hand in her own a little too hard, "Tell me." Anna stood up and walked over, placing her hand over her sisters, "We'll all work together to teach you. It'll be efficient on the battlefield to have someone capable of shielding everyone from Jane or Alec's abilities."

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"You need to visualize it. See you how it moves, What colour it is. Now picture it expanding. Will it go beyond you," Kate expressed after the group had moved outside into the clearing, Anna stood with Garrett to watch the scene. Bella tries to imagine what Kate is explaining but only manages to bring up her shield for a moment. "I think she needs something to motivate her," Kate encouraged prompting Edward to step forward from where he was standing previously. "No," Bella immediately denied. "It's all right, I can take it," Edward reassures her. "He says that now," Garrett muttered to Anna who was smirking, she may have fixed things with Edward but she was eager to see Kate electrocute him.

"Focus, Bella, or he's gonna be hurting," Emmett taunted as he nudged Anna, the two were grinning. Edward puts his hand up ready to touch Kate's hand despite Bella's worried eyes on him. "Edward, I'm not ready to do this yet," Bella told him but Kate touched Edward's hand, sending a painful electric shock through him. "I'm sorry. I said that I wasn't ready," Bella told her husband. "Dude, you're not motivating her," Emmett voiced. "You want to try?" Edward asked his brother, Emmett raised his hands up and backed off making Anna laugh. Bella tries to use her power and Kate touches Edward, sending another electric shock through his body making Edward scream in pain.

"Kate!" Bella shouted. "You seem to lack incentive. Shall I go see if Renesmee's awake?" Kate asked Bella causing her to glare. "Are you crazy?" Bella asked her but Anna knew it was the right move, Bella needed to learn how to project her shield otherwise Jane and Alec would overpower them all and they would die. "All right. Full power, Kate," Anna encouraged ignoring Bella's incredulous look, Kate nodded at the Heretic before raising her hand to touch Edward. Bella manages to bring up her shield and protect Edward from Kate's power when she makes contact with Edward's skin, Anna smiles with pride for her older sister.

"It's painful, but it's bearable," Edward said before Kate let go of Edward. "Okay, we should go again," Bella told them, she wanted to be able to do it right before they came face-to-face with the Volturi. "Emmett?" Edward asked his brother who immediately shook his head. "I'm good," Emmett replied while Anna rolled her eyes. "Bunch of cowards," Anna said before moving forward, she dropped her own shield and smirked. "Give me your all," Anna told Kate who smirked, Bella focused as Kate placed her hand on Anna's shoulder, the electricity shocked through her strongly for a moment before Bella's shield wiped the pain away completely.

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"What will you do about Demetri?" Anna asked Declan later that night, she had been helping Bella all day and now her sister was spending time with Edward and Renesmee as the others went out to feed. "I'm not entirely sure. The last time we were within a few feet of each other, he and the Volturi guard were dealing with nomads so we didn't have the chance to talk but I saw it in his eyes... the way everything changed for him," Declan answered her, his eyes gazing off fondly as he recalled the first time he met his mate. "Do you think he'll still fight against us?" Anna asked her warlock friend. "Yes. Because though I am his mate, he is still a member of the Volturi and he'll fight alongside them," Declan told her.

Anna let out a shaky breath, "But he won't harm you." Declan nodded at that, "And I will not harm him. I am here with your family out of honour to you but... my mate is my main priority which is why I have faith in your sister, Alice." Annabeth understood Declan's words, if she had to stand against her mate; she'd do exactly the same thing as Declan. Leaving the Warlock to his thoughts, Anna made her way to the edge of the ravine where Paul was waiting on the opposite side, Seth lurking around him with Jared and Embry. "Was wondering whether or not you'd come? Figured you'd have made new friends by now," Paul teased Anna.

"They're alright but not... lively enough," Anna said before jumping across the ravine to stand with the shifters, Paul pulling her in for a hug. "What do you think of this situation?" Jared asked his Imprint sister, as they had all called her. "I think there is a fifty-fifty chance of a fight," Anna answered him as she leaned back against the tree. "And if there is a fight?" Embry asked with worry in his eyes. "Marin believes that many will die. She's refusing to allow her hand to come in contact with anyone out of fear of seeing their deaths," Anna expressed with a frown, the poor ginger had been staying by Jacob's side as much as possible.

"She and Jacob are close," Seth pointed out with a child-like grin. "And if I'm not mistaken, you've been sharing a lot of phone calls with a certain, Bree Tanner," Anna teased the younger boy who flushed red and scoffed in an attempt to play it off. "You and Bella have messed with the minds of shifters, you know that. Before the two of you arrived, Cold Ones were just bloodsuckers to us and now... they're friends and potentially lovers," Embry exclaimed making Anna laugh and shake her head. "It was time for a change anyway," Anna told him before winking at Seth who pouted and crossed his arms, the others teasing him for the remainder of the afternoon.

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Christmas Day came and the twins spent it will Charlie and Sue along with Jacob, Marin, Seth, Leah, and Renesmee. The twins had gotten Charlie a five-day fishing trip to Fraser River, getting him and Sue away from the upcoming battle. But soon enough, the Cullens and their Witnesses sent up camp in the woods not too far from the very clearing that the Volturi would show up in, Anna sat with Jasper by the fire that Jacob was setting up; the Heretic still needing warmth for the sake of her own desire. Benjamin uses his power to produce fire from his fingertips and throws it on the wood to start a fire.

"That's what I'm talkin' about," Jacob complimented bringing a smile to Benjamin's face as Anna chuckled lightly. "A little pre-battle bonfire. Telling war stories," Jacob said as he sat down next to Benjamin and looked across the fire to see the other vampires just standing around. "Or just standing around there like frickin' statues," Jacob muttered with an annoyed expression as Anna laughed. Suddenly, Garrett spins in and sits next to them by the fire, "Name any American battle. I was there." Anna grinned as she remembered Garrett's war stories, eager to hear them again knowing Jacob would enjoy them.

"Little Bighorn," Jacob suggested. "I came this close to biting Custer. But the Indians got him first," Garrett replied holding his pointer finger and thumb an inch apart as Kate suddenly sped over and sat on Garrett's lap. "Try Oleg's assault on Constantinople. He didn't win that one on his own," Kate suggested with Anna nodding in agreement. "If you're talking battles, you're talking the Eleven Years' War. No one does rebellion like the Irish," Liam, a member of the Irish coven spoke as he and his companions wandered over to sit down. "You lost the Eleven Years' War," Garrett pointed out. "Aye. But it was one hell of a rebellion," Liam responded with a grin.

"When we ruled, everything came to us. Prey, diplomats, favour seekers. Such was our power. But we never put on the white hats and called ourselves saints," Vladimir spoke up from beside Stefan, the two Romanians gaining the groups' attention. "We were honest about what we were," Stefan added which allowed Anna to understand that the two never hid Vampires from the world, a mistake that could cost the lives of all supernatural beings. "We sat still for a very long time. We didn't notice we were beginning to petrify," Vladimir said.

"Perhaps the Volturi did us a favour when they burned our castles," Stefan said with a shrug of his shoulder despite the blazing anger in his eyes. "We've been waiting fifteen hundred years to return that favour. We have been ready to do battle for ages," Vladimir expressed while Anna shook her head, their desire for a battle would fade over time. "And moving on from the depressive topic, I remember the true battle of civil rights..." Declan continued rambling on to the group about his time during the sixties before his rebirth; a story many enjoyed hearing.

Soon enough, the others lurked their way over to listen to the stories being told and Anna couldn't help the smile on her face seeing all these different people unite together under one reason. It gave her a sense of hope in this coming encounter, she knew that Aro desired a chance to take down the Olympic Coven and her with it but she had faith that they'd make it out without a scratch. And as she curled into Jasper's embrace, the warmth of the fire and the smiles upon the faces of their distant non-biological kin; Anna knew they'd all survive.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

The next morning, Anna had gotten up earlier than others who were sitting around talking amongst themselves quietly. The Heretic made her way away from the clearing where the others were for some time to herself, she needed to clear her mind of everything before what was to come. However, her thoughts were taken when she felt the presence of someone in the distance, she looked up to see a red coat with blond hair. Anna sped over to the presence before coming to a stop only a few feet away from Caius who was staring with a blank expression.

"The child?" Caius asked with a glare, he may have a softer spot for the Heretic due to her connection to Magnolia, but a crime was still a crime. "My niece was born, not bitten. Before Bella was turned," Anna replied to him with a glare of her own. "Aro is not pleased," Caius told her but the way his expression softened showed that he was worried. "You need not to worry, Caius. It will be fine," Anna assured him with a tone of authority, he almost believed her words if it wasn't for the knowledge that Aro was bloodthirsty and wished to destroy the Olympic Coven and Annabeth with it.

Chapter Text

Anna walked by Jasper's side as they made their way out into the snowy clearing, the Cullens and their witnesses walking with them until they stopped. "If we live through this, I'll follow you anywhere, woman," Garrett told Kate making Anna smirk, she liked the two together. "Now you tell me," Kate replied before glancing at Anna who laughed softly before focusing ahead, her hand in Jasper's as they waited for the Volturi to break through the trees. Her shared words with Caius bounced through her head, he wouldn't fight her; he wouldn't fight any of them.

They could hear the Volturi and their army coming closer, Jasper squeezed Anna's hand as he tried to block out the mix of emotions coming off of everyone. "The redcoats are coming! The redcoats are coming!" Garrett muttered as he bounced on the heels of his feet, Anna was amused by his presence. Suddenly Aro and his army became visible to them and it was clear that they greatly outnumbered the Cullens and their witnesses, Edward watches Aro closely. "Aro's looking for Alice," Edward informed them as Anna and Jasper moved forward to stand closer to Bella, Renesmee, and Edward.

As the Volturi walked forward, distant howls signalled the pack and soon the shifters were approaching the Cullens and their witnesses. Paul walked up to stand by Anna's side as Jacob stood with Bella, Sam stood tall ahead of the pack as the alpha but ultimately, the pack gave them more numbers. The Volturi and their army came to a stop and the main members removed their hoods to reveal themselves, Aro's gaze flitted from Marin who stood by Leah to Anna and Bella. Carlisle was the one to walk forward, he nodded to Edward and the twins before stopping a few steps ahead of the others.

"Aro, let's discuss things as we used to. In a civilized manner," Carlisle asked Aro hoping for a peaceful encounter rather than bloodshed. "Fair words, Carlisle. But a little out of place, given the battalion you've assembled against us," Aro replied to Carlisle with a smirk. "I can promise you, that was never my intent. No laws have been broken," Carlisle assured the kings of the Volturi. "We see the child. Do not treat us as fools," Caius snapped though his eyes landed on Anna who raised a brow, he was keeping up the act of Aro's puppet.

"She is not an Immortal!" Carlisle responded, "These witnesses can attest to that. Or you can look, see the flush of human blood in her cheeks." A few of Aro's guards disagreed with Carlisle's words but Aro raised his hand to silence them. "I will collect every facet of the truth. But from someone more central to the story. Edward, as the child clings to your newborn mate, I assume you are involved," Aro spoke with a motion for Edward to approach him. Edward looked at Bella before glancing at Anna, the blonde nodded before letting go of Jasper's hand.

Edward walks forward with Anna beside him, the two of them approach Aro who looks apprehensive about Anna being near but ultimately, the King reaches his hand out and grasps Edwards into his own. Aro is left astounded at the realization that Renesmee was indeed not an immortal child but born with the warmth of a mortal. "I'd like to meet her," Aro informs them as he lets go of Edward's hand. Edward turns and looks at Bella and Renesmee, nodding to her while Anna keeps her eyes locked on the three kings. Bella, Renesmee, Jacob, and Emmett make their way towards them so Aro can meet Renesmee.

"Ah. Young Bella. Immortality becomes you," Aro smiles and then shrieks with laughter as he hears Renesmee's heart beating. "I hear her strange heart," Aro announced while Anna stood with Jacob, she ran her fingers through his fur to calm herself; Jacob stood by her knowing she was eager to harm Aro given the chance. Aro holds out his hand and Renesmee walks closer to him with a kind smile, "Hello, Aro." Renesmee then touches Aro's cheek, using her gifts on him to show her life from birth to this very moment. Aro becomes transfixed by what she shows him, "Magnifico! Half mortal, half immortal. Conceived and carried by this newborn while she was still human."

"Impossible!" Caius spoke up despite the look on Anna's face. "Do you think they fooled me, brother?" Aro questioned Caius. Bella, Edward, and Renesmee turn to join the others, Anna smirks at Aro before she, Jacob, and Emmett make their way back. The moment Anna was within his reach, Jasper grabbed her hand and held her close; he didn't like his mate being near the King who wanted her dead. "Bring the informer forward," Caius ordered, Irina was then brought forward towards Aro and Caius. "Is that the child you saw?" Caius asked her. "I'm not sure," Irina replied. "Jane," Caius ordered but Irina spoke, "She's changed. This child is bigger."

Anna tensed up as she saw a flash of something that would upset the Denali coven within her mind, her heart already hurting. "Then your allegations were false," Caius stated with a glare, Irina's allegations were what brought the Volturi to Anna's door. "The Cullens are innocent. I take full responsibility for my mistake," Irina spoke before looking to her sisters and mouthing, "I'm sorry." Anna and Edward moved forward a step but Felix was quick to hit Irina and snap her head off. "Irina!" Tanya shouted as Caius set fire to the rest of Irina's body.

Kate and Tanya scream and run towards Aro and his army, Garrett gets a hold of Kate but she uses her power to electrocute him as Jasper and Anna grab a hold of Tanya. "Blind them," Edward requested of Zafrina, the Amazon Vampire uses her power to blind Kate and Tanya, stopping them from attacking and starting a battle. "Give me my sight back!" Tanya said as she felt Anna hug her. "Tanya, this is what they want. If you attack now, we'll all die," Edward told her as Anna let go; Zafrina stopped her ability while Anna turned to realize what was about to happen.

"Bella!" Anna shouted as Jane began using her ability on Edward, Bella managed to use her own projection to shield Edward allowing him to get up and walk towards Bella. "It's working," Edward told her as Anna moved to stand in front of Edward and Bella, a taunting smirk on her face. Bella smiles as Jane realizes her powers as useless against her shield, Alec steps forward to use his deadly vapour but Aro stops him knowing that Anna could overpower him. "Aro, you see there's no law broken here," Carlisle told Aro who seemed unhappy with the outcome.

"Agreed," Aro said before continuing, "But does it then follow that there is no danger? For the first time in our history, humans pose a threat to our kind. Their modern technology has given birth to weapons that could destroy us. Maintaining our secret has never been more imperative. In such perilous times, only the known is safe. Only the known is tolerable. And we know nothing of what this child will become. Can we live with such uncertainty? Spare ourselves a fight today, only to die tomorrow." Aro's words died out as two figures emerged from the nearby woods, Anna becoming anxious hoping Alice had succeeded.

"Alice!" Aro greeted as Alice and Colton walked up to the King and his army, two of Aro's guards stopped them from coming closer. "My dear, dear Alice, we're so glad to see you here, after all," Aro said to Alice. "I have evidence the child won't be a risk to our kind," Alice told him though Aro looked at her with suspicion. "Let me show you," Alice offered her hand to Aro, he motioned for his guards to let her go and she walked towards him; he took her hand and as Aro read her thoughts, Alice realized that Aro wouldn't change his mind. Anna looks to Edward and nods her head before looking at Jasper, her heart mourning the life they won't have.

"It doesn't matter what I show you. Even when you see, you still won't change your decision," Alice seethes at him, she turns to Bella and whispers, "Now!" Bella looks at Renesmee who's sitting upon Jacob's back before turning to Jacob, "Take care of my daughter." Jacob turns and starts running into the woods with Renesmee. "Get them!" Aro orders before Alice attacks Aro, kicking him with her foot, sending him flying but he manages to land back down and orders his guards to take hold of Alice. "Let her go!" Carlisle demands, seeing Alice being held, he runs forward to attack, and he and Aro meet each other mid-air.

Aro lands on the ground with Carlisle's decapitated head in hand, the Cullens and their witnesses watch in horror as Felix burns Carlisle's body prompting the Cullens, their witnesses, and the pack to launch into an attack. The battle becomes a blur to Anna who is fighting against members of Aro's army in an attempt to reach Aro, his death would be the end of it all. Bella tries to use her power to help shield Colton from Jane's power but Alec attacks her, Colton is left writhing in pain from Jane before he is beheaded by another Volturi member. Emmett rushes to protect Bella from Alec as Seth is killed in his wolf form by a Volturi guard causing Anna to let out a war cry.

Anna's eyes overlap with grey as grey mist forms within her hands, the ground seems to shake as she pushes off of the snow and into a crowd of the Volturi's army; the mist seeps free and consumes the Volturi's witnesses leaving them screaming in pain until they became nothing but ash on the battlefield. Benjamin uses his power to create a chasm in the earth which kills many of the Volturi and nearly takes Esme and Edward down but they manage to escape with Edward killing Felix in the process. Alice then attacks Jane with Bella shielding her allowing Alice to throw Jane to Sam who kills her, Alec angered at his sister's death turns to Anna.

Anna watches with a pained expression as Caius is beheaded by Kate and Tanya, she knew the outcome of this battle would be his death but it still hurts and she only hopes that he'll see Magnolia again in death. With her back turned, Alec rushed Anna and allowed his vapour to surround her, Anna turned to try and fight off the deadly vampires' strong ability but found herself suffocating in the smoke. Jasper spotted Alec and Anna, rage filled him as she blindly fought his way through the crowd, killing any who wore a red coat in the process.

Jasper attacked Alec turning his attention to him and freeing Anna from the deadly vapour that almost took her life, gasping for air, Anna turned her head to see Alec managing to overpower Jasper with the help of Demetri. Anna's heart was torn knowing that Declan wished for his mate to survive however, the sight of the Warlock's dead body a distance away told her that Demetri was acting out of grief and anger. Anna's eyes widened as Alec and Demetri beheaded Jasper, throwing his head at Anna's feet with vicious smirks upon their animalistic features. Anna's world seemed to freeze as she looked down at her Soulbound's head.

The clouds in the sky darkened as thunder rumbled and lightning struck the trees, lighting them ablaze as the wind picked up. Anna looked up from her mate's head, her eyes no longer grey but an empty abyss of black as the former kind eyes held no emotion. Alec and Demetri stumbled back as Aro looked on with wide fearful eyes, the demonic presence of Anna had struck everyone who was still alive. Anna let out a loud cry as a powerful shockwave came off of her wiping out every single member of the Volturi, turning them into nothing but atoms in the breeze before she dropped to the ground; coughing up black blood before taking her last breath.

Chapter Text

Alice let go of Aro's hand as he stumbled back slightly, his eyes flitting over to Anna who knew exactly what Alice had shown him. "Now you know. That's your future unless you decide on another course," Alice told him after a beat of silence. "We cannot alter our course. The child still poses a grave threat," Caius spoke. "But what if you were sure she could remain concealed from the human world? Could we leave in peace?" Edward asked from where he stood. "Of course. But that cannot be known," Caius responded as Edward and Anna shared a look. "Actually, it can," Anna said before two more witnesses walked out from the woods.

"I've been searching for witnesses of my own among the Ticuna Tribes of Brazil," Alice explained, Anna smiled at the presence of the two new witnesses. "We have enough witnesses," Caius commented. "Let him speak, brother," Aro told Caius before focusing on the man before them. "I am half human, half vampire. Like the child. A vampire seduced my mother, who died giving birth to me. My aunt Huilen raised me as her own. I made her immortal," Nahuel explained to Aro himself. "How old are you?" Bella asked. "A hundred and fifty years," Nahuel answered easing Bella and Edward's fears of Renesmee dying.

"At what age did you reach maturity?" Aro asked Nahuel. "I became full-grown seven years after my birth. I have not changed since then," Nahuel answered him, Anna leaned her head on Jasper's shoulder. "And your diet?" Aro questioned further. "Blood, human food. I can survive on either," Nahuel responded. "These children are much like us," Marcus commented, the silent King did not want a battle. "Regardless, the Cullens have been consorting with werewolves. Our natural enemies," Caius spoke up. "I am Imprinted on by a shifter, Caius. They are no foe of ours," Anna spoke up as she ran her fingers through Paul's fur.

Aro turns to his army, "Dear ones, there is no danger here. We will not fight today." Some of the Volturi do not hide their disappointment, including Jane but they all listen to Aro and quickly leave the clearing. "Such a prize," Aro states looking at Bella and Anna before he too turns and leaves with his people. Anna turns to Declan and nods to the Warlock, he smiles back before he makes his way towards the direction the Volturi left in; only to be surprised when Demetri appears and grabs his hand, the two leaving together. Anna turned to Jasper and wrapped her arms around his shoulders, "Faith, huh?" Jasper laughed before kissing the side of her head.

"We have them on the run. Now is the time to attack!" Vladimir exclaims. "Not today," Carlisle tells him as the others relax, happy that no fight would happen. "You're all fools! The Volturi might be gone. But they will never forgive what happened here. They'll come for you, Della Freya," Stefan voiced as he glared at her. "They won't, Stefan, Vladimir. It is a time of peace, Aro knows he will meet his death facing us," Anna told them, the words only angered them more before they turned and left in a fit of rage, the rest rejoicing over the fact they did not need to fight against the Volturi.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

"You had me worried for a while," Anna told Alice as the two stood on the balcony watching as their family said their farewells to their friends. Anna's eyes were focused on Jasper who was talking to Peter and Charlotte, the nomads were always welcome to Anna and Jasper's home whenever they wished to visit. "You doubted me?" Alice asked her sister who grinned. "I would never doubt you, Alice," Anna told her before taking in a deep breath of air. "So, what's the next step then?" Alice asked Anna who smiled before looking at Alice. "I could use your help preparing for my wedding," Anna told Alice whose smile widened.

"I have so many ideas. It's gonna be an amazing event and... when?" Alice asked as she grabbed Anna's hands in her own. Anna turned to look at Jasper who smiled fondly and bowed his head, "As soon as possible. I'm ready to start my forever." Alice giggled happily before rushing to find Rosalie and Esme, the three would work together to prepare the wedding. "Maybe we can talk our friends into staying for a little while longer," Colton said as he walked up next to Anna, his arms crossed as he looked at Carlisle and Emmett. "You doubted Bella and me at the start of all of this," Anna reminded him, the blond male laughed at that.

"You and Bella proved yourself. And Aro was right, Immortality is who you both are," Colton told her before looking down, "I may have wanted to kill the two of you at one point but it was clear that this family was incomplete without the two of you. And now, it is complete." Anna grinned up at her brother, "Not quite yet." They turned to see Bree and Seth walking hand in hand towards the home, Jacob and Marin smiling as they walked with them; Jacob's arm around Marin's shoulders. "And why is that?" Colton asked before watching as Anna created a small mist in the form of a flower, she blew on it and watched as it pressed against Rosalie's stomach.

"It's only the beginning of the story, Colt. Our family has many more journeys ahead of us and you know what? I'm pretty excited about it," Anna told Colton before she lightly punched his shoulder, she made her way into the house before walking out into the crowd of their friends. "You know, I'm quite proud of you, Annie," Garrett spoke as he rested his arm around her shoulders, "You've grown a lot since we last saw each other." Anna smiled up at Garrett before looking towards Kate and Tanya, the two talking to Carmen and Eleazar. "And you've finally found your mate," Anna said making Garrett grin. "I sure did," Garrett replied before they began talking to Benjamin and Tia.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Anna stood before the floor-length mirror, her eyes were trailing down the white material of her dress. Her hair was done into a half-braid that made her think of Elves from Lord of the Rings, it had small white flowers within the loops. She took in a deep breath before turning to see Paul standing there, "You look beautiful, little sister." Anna smiled up at him as he held out a small wooden box. "What's that?" Anna asked as she took it into her hands. "It's a gift from the pack," Paul answered her as she opened it to reveal a beautiful necklace; a crescent moon with a howling wolf, a small moonstone gem within it.

"Help me with it?" Anna asked him, Paul nodded before moving to clip the necklace around her neck. She looked down to admire it again before looking up to see Paul trying to hide the tears in his eyes, she didn't say anything as she wrapped her arms around him. "Thank you, Paul. For everything," Anna whispered as he hugged her back. "Are you ready?" Paul asked Anna who immediately nodded. Paul led Anna out into the hallway of her home where Charlie stood waiting for his youngest daughter, his eyes turned to her as Paul bowed his head before leaving the two.

"You look beautiful, Annabeth," Charlie complimented before sniffling, "My daughters are all grown up now." Anna smiled tearfully at him as he placed his hands on her cheeks, "Where did all that time go?" Anna pulled her father into a tight hug as he sniffled, a tear falling down his cheek. "You don't need me anymore," Charlie whimpered making Anna shake her head. "I'll always need you, Dad. Always," Anna told him before closing her eyes knowing that one day he'd be old and grey on his deathbed and she'd be right there until his last breath.

"Let's do this," Anna said to her father, she looped her arm around his as they began the walk down the aisle. Anna immediately spotted all of their friends that had stood with them against the Volturi along with her friends from high school, Tyler grinning from his spot next to his own pregnant fiancé, Lauren. The Heretic spotted Demetri, Declan, and Caius in the back hidden away from the others; she hadn't expected Caius to accept the invite. Anna smiled at the Cullens, Alice grinning at her work while Bella smiled widely at her sister.

And finally, Anna's eyes locked on Jasper who stood tall in his tux, his eyes hadn't left her from the moment she walked into his view. Jasper never believed this day would come for him, even in his human life, he thought he'd never find someone who complimented his soul the way that Annabeth Swan did. "Take care of her," Charlie told Jasper as he handed off his daughter. "For the rest of eternity," Jasper promised as he shook Charlie's hand, the Sheriff nodded his head before moving to sit down with Sue, taking her hand in his with a teary smile.

"Friends and Family, we are gathered here today to witness the union of Jasper Hale and Annabeth Swan," The Priest spoke as Jasper and Anna held one another's hands, their eyes maintaining eye contact. Anna mostly zoned out of the words the Priest was saying until it was time for their own personal short vows, she took in a steady breath before speaking, "Jasper Hale, from the moment I met you, I knew that our souls were meant to meet. You strengthen my weaknesses and bring focus to my dreams. Here and now I pledge my life to yours, that your dreams become my dreams. No matter where life leads me, I know that as long as you are there, that is where I am meant to be."

"I see these vows not as promises but as privileges: I get to laugh with you and cry with you; care for you and share with you. I get to run with you and walk with you; build with you and live with you. I get to have you be the person I spend the rest of my life with. I get to be there for you and support you. I don't have to honour and cherish you, I get to. So from this moment, I take you as my best friend, my lover, and my person for eternity. With every step of our journey, I will love you," Jasper declared making Anna smile wide, she sniffled slightly as her eyes filled with tears that wouldn't fall.

"Do you Annabeth Swan take Jasper Hale to be your lawful husband, to have and to hold, from this forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish until death do you part?" The Priest asked Anna. "Damn straight, I do," Anna answered immediately making the crowd laugh. "And do you Jasper Hale take Annabeth Swan to be your lawful wife, to have and to hold, from this forward, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and cherish until death do you part?" The Priest asked Jasper. "Hell yeah, I do," Jasper replied with a wink, Anna grinning at him.

"In the sight of God and these witnesses, I now pronounce you husband and wife! You may now kiss the bride," The Priest spoke before Jasper grabbed Anna's waist and pulled her towards him, dipping her before slamming his lips against her own. Anna's arms wrapped around Jasper's shoulders as she kissed him back, the crowd began applauding and cheering for the newlywed couple. "I love you, Mr Hale," Anna whispered as she and Jasper pulled away from each other. "And I love you, Mrs Hale," Jasper whispered back before the two kissed again; the night of celebration was filled with laughter and memories to last eternity.

Chapter Text

Anna stood at the window watching the rain fall against it, her hand rested on the bump that stuck out signalling how close it was to the end of her term. The family had mostly left Forks but Anna and Jasper agreed to stay so that Charlie could be present for Anna's pregnancy after missing Bella's; though Anna's was more mundane compared to Bella's. Renesmee had reached maturity and the girl was currently attending high school in Illinois where Bella and Edward were staying with Jacob and Marin not too far from them. Despite the Olympic Coven being in different places around the states, they kept in touch with one another and promised to be present once Anna had the baby.

"What has you so deep in thought?" Her husband's voice pulled Anna from her mind, she turned to Jasper who was leaning in the doorway with a loving expression. "Just thinking about what the future holds," Anna told him as she turned to him, Jasper walked towards Anna and lightly grabbed her hips, pulling her forward to share a sweet kiss. "No matter what comes, we'll have each other," Jasper told her before placing his hand on Anna's stomach, he grinned as they listened to the two separate heartbeats. "Twins will be a handful," Anna commented but Jasper was too happy about being a father to truly care.

It wasn't long till Anna gave birth to their twins, Isobel and Asher Hale; a few complications. Anna and Jasper were ecstatic to be parents and it was only a few days after Rosalie had given birth to her own child. The Cullen family had grown in size welcoming a new species of Vampires into existence with other Cold Ones coming to Anna for a miracle blessing; even a few members of the Volturi guard had come to the Heretic for the blessing and to all she granted them the chance to have children of their own. It was a new generation within the world but one gifted with many opportunities.

Jasper was a great father to his children, the twins had gifts of their own that had shown from the moment they opened their eyes for the first time. Isobel was a daddy's girl, her bond with Jasper was strong and unbreakable despite her adoring her uncle Paul more. While Asher was a clear mama's boy, he spent more of his time with his mother learning about her life and magic; small signs of magic showing in his actions daily. Anna never thought that meeting Jasper would lead to her happy ever after, yet here she was with her husband and children living happily and at peace forever.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Years Later. . .

Renesmee and Isobel climbed out of the car and looked around the car park with interest, the cousins weren't sure how they felt about going to high school but they knew their respective parents wouldn't let them do otherwise. "Why are we always the new kids?" Isobel asked her older cousin who sighed and turned to her, "Because mom says we need to play off as normal as possible." The two heard a motorbike pull up next to them, the helmet came off to reveal Amelia who grinned. "Why are you two so concerned? We are the powerful trio of a new generation of our kind," Amelia told them as she ran her fingers through her golden locks.

Isobel rolled her eyes at that but she knew her cousin was right, they were a new breed of Vampires known as Dhampir's. "Where's Asher and Brandon?" Amelia asked as she looked around with a sigh, she was admiring the many beautiful faces. "They'll be here soon. Brandon won't miss his first day with Renesmee," Isobel teased before laughing. "Your twin is the reason they are late," Renesmee stated as she leaned against the car waiting for Brandon to show up which only made Isobel and Amelia laugh. Within a few minutes, a Camaro pulled up and two males got out with smirks on their faces.

"Hey beautiful," Brandon greeted Renesmee, the two shared a kiss before he wrapped his arms around her waist as Asher poked Amelia and annoyed her. "I'm gonna murder your brother," Amelia warned Isobel who sighed and grabbed her older brother, pulling him over to her. "Best behaviour, Ash. Mom has already warned us that she won't tolerate the same misbehaviour you had at our old school," Isobel reminded Asher who rolled his eyes despite knowing his younger sister was right. "Yeah, yeah. Let's just head in and get the first day over with," Asher said before the five of them headed into the school to meet up with Will; Asher smiled at his family, a smile that replicated that of his mother's.

⊱ ──── {⋆☂ ❉ ☽⋆} ──── ⊰

Renesmee Carlie Cullen , the only daughter of Edward and Isabella Cullen. Born while her mother was human, aged beautifully and was mated to Brandon. Brandon Leigh Uley , the only son of Sam and Emily Uley. Their miracle child was born after the treaty with the Volturi when Anna used her power to slow Renesmee's age. They were the soulmates that established a new era of peace between the Cold Ones and the Shifters, a true sight of love between different people. William John Black , the son of Jacob and Marin Black. He was a strong hybrid who had all the makings of an Alpha, however, like his father, he didn't want the title.

Isobel Magnolia Whitlock , the younger twin of Jasper and Anna Whitlock. She was at risk of not surviving during birth but with the sacrifice of Grandma Rose's magic, she managed to survive. Asher Charles Whitlock , the older twin of Jasper and Anna Whitlock. He was completely healthy and strong at birth, his golden ochre eyes showed clear signs of the vampire side of life. Amelia Rose Cullen , the miracle daughter of Rosalie and Emmett Cullen thanks to Annabeth's blessing. She was a force to be reckoned with and the perfect copycat of her mother who was beyond grateful for the chance to be a mother of her own child.

Asher stepped into the classroom after his sister, the twins stopped when their eyes locked on two separate people. Isobel bit her lip as she made eye contact with a girl who had bright blue eyes and a shy smile on her face, Isobel instantly knew that the girl was her mate; her grin widened as she made her way over to the seat next to her. Meanwhile, Asher's gaze was locked on a raven-haired girl who paid him no mind, her glasses rested on her nose as she read her textbook. Asher swallowed carefully as her scent calmed him and teased him, he knew he was in for a challenge; but he was ready.

Chapter Text

That is the end of Soulbound.

I want to say thank you for the love of this story. I had originally posted it to Wattpad and it was written during the early pandemic era but I thought I would give AO3 a chance and I do not regret it. While my book doesn't reach AO3 level awesomeness, I figured that some people may enjoy the story that I created.

I do have plans to add some potential bonus scenes about the Whitlock Twins and their lives but that may take some encouragement, do you wish to see that?

I also have plans to add more stories to this account and I really hope you enjoy them.

THANK YOU FOR THE LOVE!!!