Chapter Text

"You ready?" Charlie asked me as he extended his hand.

No, I thought internally. I wasn't ready at all. Part of me didn't want to do this. No, that wasn't true.

All of me didn't want to do this.

I didn't want to marry Edward. At least not like this…

Why couldn't we have gone to Vegas? Or just not have gotten married at all. It was too soon! well, too soon for me.

I wanted to spend time with my friends and go to college but didn't Edward's heart matter too? He had spent thousands of years waiting for his perfect match.

I guess I was it.

With that thought I tried to gather my confidence and take my father's hand.

" Yeah. Just don't let me fall, Dad." I whispered. Charlie pulled my hand through his arm and then grasped it tightly.

"Never baby girl," he said softly.

Bella gasped; he had never called her that before.

With tears in her eyes, she allowed him to walk her down the aisle.

One step at a time, I told myself as we began to descend to the slow tempo of the march. I didn't lift my eyes until my feet were safely on the flat ground, though I could hear the murmurs and rustling of the audience as I came into view. Blood flooded my cheeks at the sound; of course, I could be counted on to be the blushing bride.

As soon as my feet were past the treacherous stairs, I was looking for him. For a brief second, I was distracted by the profusion of white blossoms that hung in garlands from everything in the room that wasn't alive, dripping with long lines of white gossamer ribbons. But I tore my eyes from the bowery canopy and searched across the rows of satin-draped chairs - blushing more deeply as I took in the crowd of faces all focused on me - until I found him at last, standing before an arch overflowing with more flowers, more gossamer.

I was barely conscious that Carlisle stood by his side, and Angela's father behind them both. I didn't see my mother where she must have been sitting in the front row, or my new family, or any of the guests - they would have to wait till later.

All I saw was Edward's face; it filled my vision and overwhelmed my mind. His eyes were buttery, burning gold; his perfect face was almost severe with the depth of his emotion. And then, as he met my awed gaze, he broke into a breathtaking smile of exultation.

And everything in me wanted to run away. I didn't want this. I couldn't do this.

Suddenly, it was only the pressure of Charlie's hand on mine that kept me from running away.

I was just a few steps away from Edwards's hypnotizing gaze when I heard my father gasp.

I turned to look at him and my heart stopped.

My father's face was pale. All the blood draining from his face.

His free hand that wasn't clasping my hand was covering his heart.

"B… Be.… Bella…" he croaked. His eyes were wide and filled with fear as he looked at her.

And then they rolled into the back of his head and her father collapsed.

"DADDDY!"

Was the ear-piercing shriek that exploded through the evening air.

Everything was a swirl of chaos. Carlisle was in full doctor mode now, barking orders and demanding an ambulance.

Bella had been pulled to the side by her mother as they looked on.

"come on Bella, let's get to the hospital." Her mother urged.

Bella felt her world spin.

Chapter 2:

Chapter Text

Bella wiped the tears that wouldn't stop flowing as she sat in the waiting room.

It was full of everyone that knew and cared about Charlie.

Her wedding dress had gotten dirty as mud stained the bottom from when she tripped.

Edward tried to hold her hand but for once she didn't want his icecold comfort.

Across the room sat the whole pack minus one.

Jacob.

Maybe he would come back? If not for her then at least he'd come for Charlie.

A cough sounded in the room and Bella's bloodshot eyes found Billy's just as red as hers.

She could only imagine the pain he was going through. He had already lost one friend to a heart attack. He didn't need another.

She was quick to get up and get him a cup of water, even though Edward and Alice protested that she should sit down.

Bella ignored them. five minutes later she came back with a cup of ice water. and headed straight for Billy She crouched before Billy as she handed him the drink. He was like a second father to her, and he was suffering just as much as she was.

With her breaking Jacob's heart and Jacob running away because of it, she knew Billy was feeling stressed out. on top of her ready to marry their enemy, Charlie's heart attack was the straw that broke the camel's back.

" you need to drink this Billy. Did you take your meds today?" she asked.

The elder looked at her with wide eyes.

"No..I, I completely forgot my mind was a whirlwind this morning and now this and I-"

The chief faltered as he looked at her. The strain of it all bearing on his shoulders. Of course, Billy would forget his medication at a time like this. With his daughters gone, and Jacob on the run, he didn't even think to take his meds.

"I can go get them chief," Jared mentioned quietly to him.

However, Bella shook her head.

"no need." She told Jared.

With ease, she lifted her dress a little and pulled out a small black bag. Inside the bag was Billy's medication.

"How?" He asked her.

Bella smiled tearfully at him as she put the two pills in his hand.

"'We are a family Billy. Dad and I always have your back." Was her simple explanation.

However, what Billy didn't know was that she and her father had sat down with Jacob a year ago and came up with a plan.

She and Charlie were put on Billy's list of emergency contacts. She,

Charlie, and Jacob rotated in who would pick up Billy's meds, and anything else the Black household would need. Jacob was only sixteen he didn't need to be the only person worrying and taking care of his father.

Unbeknownst to Billy, it was Charlie and Bella who helped keep the fridge full and Bella would make casseroles they could keep frozen so that Billy and Jacob could just heat them.

It was the least she could do for them. Billy and Jacob had been there for her when she needed them most, and she wanted to repay them in some way.

And yet she had hurt Jacob. Hurt him so much that he ran away.

And what of her father? was the heart attack her fault? Did she stress him out so much these past two years that it all became too much for his poor heart to bear?

What kind of daughter was she?

"Bella," Billy called her.

She blinked snapping back to reality.

"You are a good daughter. To me and Charlie. don't do this yourself." He admonished with a firm voice.

Bella leaned her head in Billy's lap. Something she hadn't done since she was little.

With tender hands, Billy began to stroke her hair. A familiar Quileute lullaby emitted from his deep baritone voice.

Bella's eyes filled with tears again.

"I haven't heard that song in so long. Sarah used to sing to us before nap time." she laughed lightly.

Billy laughed with her.

"it was the only thing to make you kids go to sleep. And if you went to sleep then Jake was up and if Jake went to sleep you were up. The lullaby was our only solution."

"I think it was the spirits. They knew how rowdy we were." Bella admitted.

"I think they did too."

"I'm sorry Billy."

"Whatever for child?" he questioned.

"pieces and parts of my decisions brought us here. You tried to warn me and I was too stubborn to listen."

It was at this moment, that Bella felt a pang in her heart. She knew full well that everyone with supernatural ears was listening.

She was grateful her mother went to the cafeteria with Phil to eat.

"Sometimes the darkest things in our life can mean second chances, Bella.." he spoke cryptically.

Bella lifted her head to look into his eyes.

She knew the double meaning of his words.

She still had a chance.

A hiss, however, filled the room. All eyes turned to see Edward. He was standing up and looking highly pissed off.

" I think that's enough of this conversation ."

Bella opened her mouth to speak but Carisle's appearance had her fumbling to stand.

She held Billy's hand tightly.

Everyone waited with bated breath to see what the doctor would say.

Carsile stood in disarray.

His clothes were rumbled, his tie undone and his hair hung in his face.

"We were able to resuscitate him. However… he's in a coma and ..we had to put him on a ventilator. We are doing the best we can but the next twenty-four hours are crucial. You can see him whenever you are ready Bella. But I must ask that only two people be in the room at a time."

Bella closed her eyes and tried to calm herself down.

Instantly she felt a wave of calm.

A wave of unnatural calm.

With quickness, she turned to Jasper an angry fire in her eyes.

" stop manipulating my emotions ." She growled at him.

Esme and Alice gasped.

"Bella, that was unnecessary. He was just trying to help." Alice chided.

"I don't care Alice. I don't want my emotions touched. Am I making myself clear?"

Bella didn't stay to hear Alice's responses.

She was quick to get behind her father's best friend and push him towards the double doors.

"come on Billy. Let's go see him."

What Bella didn't see was the shocked faces of everyone behind her.

They had never seen Bella angry before.

Bella swan had officially grown a backbone. At least in the pack's eyes. but in Cullen's eyes, she had made a grave mistake.

…

Once again, Bella found herself crying. She wasn't big on showing her emotions, something she and her father had in common. But ever since Edward proposed, her emotions had gone haywire. Most of the time the family asked Jasper to calm her. But today she had snapped. She wanted to self-regulate and be in charge of her own emotions.

Her father was connected to a lot of tubes that she didn't understand.

" He's going to pull through this Bella." Billy assured her. " he's stronger than he looks."

Bella nodded wordlessly.

After fifteen minutes, Billy rolled out of the room. telling her, he would grab Renee.

As soon as her mother entered the room, she began to fret over her and complain.

"oh, Bella! Your wedding has been ruined! I am so sorry baby girl! And you were so beautiful! And poor Edward! He looked like he was ready to marry you, that's the first time I saw him smile like that! Oh, baby girl! You must be so upset! Charlie just had to have a heart attack on your wedding day of all days!"

Bella turned to her mother. Eyes blazing with righteous anger.

"mom. I love you, but I need you to stop talking. please. Dad didn't choose t o have a heart attack on my wedding day. It just happened.

It was out of our control. My only focus is to make sure he gets better."

Her mother's eyebrows furrowed.

" you know you've been very snappy with everyone young lady. Don't think that Esme didn't mention to me the way you treated poor Jasper. He was just trying to help you by showing you some breathing tactics. Charlie may be in this bed due to his negligence but that does give you the right to be a bi-"

"Knock. Knock."

Renee's rant was cut off by an elderly voice at the door.

Both women turned to see old Quil with his cane leaning in the doorway.

"oh, elder Quil. come on in. Mom you are gonna have to step out please."

Her mother grimaced but stepped out anyway.

Elder Quil smiled softly at her and then turned his eyes towards Charlie. The machines beeping quietly.

" you gave us quite a shock old friend. But you will make it. even in dark times, some good can come out of it." He said as he looked at Bella. A double meaning in his words.

He smiled again and brought Bella into a hug.

" everything will be ok little niece. He's going to make it through. I just know it."

Bella pulled back and looked at him curiously.

" little niece?" she questioned

Elder Quil tilted his head and his eyes widened.

" has the old fool not told you your history, Bella? You my dear are my niece. Your aunt Molly Swan was my wife. Did… did Charlie ever tell you about his sister?"

" no way! Dad has a sister!? What the heck? Why did no one tell me!" she exclaimed.

Elder Quil or should she call him Uncle Quil responded with a sad smile.

. " don't get too upset honey. Your father and your aunt had some bad blood when she married me. It probably brought up some bad memories. When you get time, come see me and we can talk about it. But I'm going to step aside and let someone else in."

With that said, he kissed Bella on the forehead and walked out. Not giving her time to reply.

Bella felt weary as she sat down.

" Looks like I wasn't the only one with secrets huh Dad."

Of course, her father couldn't respond

Chapter Text

Chapter 3: the kindness of a stranger.

Four weeks went by and her father hadn't gotten any better. If anything he had gotten worse. His heart had stopped at least twice and they had to revive him.

Bella felt guilt eat at her. If she hadn't gotten involved with the Cullens in the first place maybe he wouldn't be in this state.

after a few weeks, the visitors died down. Billy and Elder Quil were consistent and some of the pack but that was it.

She knew every last person who went in and out of this room.

She hadn't left her father's side.

At first, Edward was patient and loving but then he became irritated and irate. He couldn't understand why Bella wouldn't leave Charlie's side.

But Bella wouldn't move. She ignored him and then eventually asked him to leave.

It was the same for Alice. She fussed over Bella but Bella ignored her. Banning her from the room as well.

She didn't have time for anyone else's foolishness. A quiet knock on the door brought Bella out of her thoughts.

Looking up she was surprised to see Paul Lahote. One of the few if not the only pack member she had never talked to. He wore a grey

T-shirt and jeans. A simple brown jacket to complete the ensemble.

Surprise showed on Bella's face as he walked into the room. Why was he here? He hated her. Always had. She remembered when she first found out about the pack. When Jacob brought her to Emily's Paul exploded and attacked him. From then on Paul was kept away from her.

She glanced at the clock, noticing that it was 8 pm. Visiting hours were over. How did he get past the nurses?

" hey Bella…" he greeted quietly. His huge 6'8 frame standing over her.

"hey, paul." She greeted stiffly. She had no clue what the man wanted or why. The first and last time she saw him, he was trying to rip Jacob's throat out.

"so, I know this is awkward. But I figured you might be hungry for some real food. I got your favorite jalapeño pepper chicken sandwich, cajun fries, and a spicy chocolate milkshake?" he questioned as he held up the bag.

Immediately Bella's stomach growled and Paul grinned awkwardly.

" so .. yeah here you go."

Bella took the food he offered with a quiet thank you.

Paul nodded and then said "soo, do you want some company or would you rather prefer to be alone?" he questioned Bella shrugged. At the moment she couldn't care less, she just wanted to tear through her chicken sandwich.

" ok… well, I'll just take a seat back here." He told her quietly.

Bella nodded and continued to eat.

It took her about 15 minutes to finish her food and when she looked back, Paul was gone.

…

For the rest of the week, Paul showed up like clockwork. Every day with a different meal and to her surprise he would have books and magazines. Items that took her interest and her mind off of Charlie.

Finally on a rainy Saturday in August Bella found the courage to ask Paul why he was here.

He was sitting behind her on one of the chairs. A Manga volume in his hand.

It made her pause for a moment as she took him in.

He was reading intently with not a care in the world. Something she used to do often.

"Hey, Paul? I'm not trying to be rude but Why are you doing this? Why are you here? You hate me. You always called me a leech lover? Why the change up now?" she asked with slight bitterness Paul looked at her with sorrowful and yet understanding eyes. They didn't hold pity but instead, they held empathy.

He then looked at Charlie's comatose body as the tubes breathed for him and said "Because I wish I had had someone do this for me when I was going through this. Someone to just sit with me and be by my side no questions asked. And by the way, never have I once ever called you a leech lover, that was a sick joke between Embry and Quil, and somehow the rumor spread that I said it and I never did. Think about it when have you or I ever interacted? Have we ever been alone together?"

Paul pov:

Paul watched as Bella's eyebrows furrowed.

She was a sight for sore eyes. She was still in her wedding dress that smelled like the cold ones. The edges were also dirty from the dirt it swept off the floor. Not to mention her hair was a greasy mess.

"you know you are right. Now that I think about it. We've never been alone together nor have we ever ever talked before. We had that one incident when we first met but that was unfair for me to judge you. You are a protector of your tribe and very protective of your brothers. I am sure when you found out that Jacob told me your legends, it felt like a betrayal. Your customs and heritage are sacred and you felt that Jacob didn't care and was talking about it willy-nilly. I can understand why you were angry that day. I'm sorry I snapped at you it's been a long couple of weeks." She told him wearily.

Paul felt himself slowly start to relax at Bella's words. She had put exactly how he felt that day into words and he told her as so.

" that's exactly how I felt that day. Our legends and heritage are dying with each new generation. And yet some of us have been chosen to carry it on and here comes baby alpha tugging along the chick who ran with our enemies and telling her our secrets. We work hard and that day I was just so exhausted. We had been chasing the redhead and dealing with two new wolves. When we first phase we are very easy to anger and it was stupid for Jacob to bring you around so soon. If he had just told us what we needed to know we could have prepared everyone first instead of blindsiding them. And to make it worse, I wasn't keeping my anger in check and I phased. I could have hurt you and I owe you an apology. I am third in command and I have to have self-control at all times. I've been working on it but I felt so bad because at that moment I saw how terrified you looked. I didn't want anyone to look at me like that again."

As Paul looked up to see Bella's reaction, he realized she was chuckling.

" what's so funny? I'm trying to give a sincere apology here." He explained with a tinge of anger.

Bella chuckled again and said " I know. I know and I appreciate it! But I was just thinking about that day. Paul, I wasn't afraid of you. If anything I was afraid you and Jake were going to hurt each other." Paul couldn't help but laugh with her.

"you were worried about us! you do know we turn into giant wolves? You are differently different Bella."

They fell into a comfortable silence before Bella spoke again.

" hey, earlier you said that you knew what it was like and that you would have wanted someone here for you. What did you mean?" Paul sighed as the sad memories assaulted him.

" before my dad and I came back to Lapush, we used to live in Tacoma with my mom. But when I turned 16 she was diagnosed with stage four cervical cancer. There was nothing they could do. My dad is in the military so it was just me by her side at the time. There was nobody to sit with me. And I know the pain of watching the machine breathe for your parent. Unfortunately, my mom didn't make it and we moved back here. Her death is what caused me to phase. Long story short all I am saying is that I understand. And that you are not alone."

Tears welled in Bella's eyes as she looked at him.

"thank you Paul I needed to hear that. " she admitted.

Paul nodded and then said, "Can I be honest?"

" Sure?"

" Bella it's been five weeks and you're still in your wedding dress. It has to be uncomfortable. Isn't it?"

He watched as Bella shifted uncomfortably and nodded avoiding his eyes

" I know you want to be here for Charlie. But do you think he'd want you to sit by his side in discomfort? Wouldn't you feel more comfortable in a T-shirt and lounge pants? And maybe a shower?"

Once again she shook her head without looking at him.

It was then Paul pulled out his car keys.

" here. Why don't you take my car keys and you can use my shower or you can go back to your place to change. Whatever you want to do. I just thought you could at least use a change of scenery. I'll watch Charlie until you get back. I have a silver Ford."

He watched as Bella looked at him with wide tired eyes. He could see the debate in her mind.

" Bella a nice hot shower and some comfortable clothes will do you some good." He told her.

If he was honest, Paul didn't know why he cared about her wellbeing so much.

But he knew one thing, his assumption of Bella Swan was wrong.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4: fighting for peace

Bella hesitated when she finally found the grey house, with the American flag posted high.

Paul was right, his family was military. Her father made sure their flag was up too.

She had spent twenty minutes debating as to whether she should even come here. But she knew that if she went home, Edward or Alice would be waiting for her and then she wouldn't have any time to herself.

It hadn't taken her long to find Paul's house, it was exactly as he described it. Grey and white with a wrap-around porch.

He lived alone since his dad was in the military and was stationed in South Korea at the moment.

"wow," Bella exclaimed as she opened the front door with the spare key Paul had given her.

The inside of his house looked like a forest. There were plants everywhere. The layout reminded her of a log cabin. Everything was wood and brown.

She made her way downstairs, looking around the living room, kitchen, and dining room. on the wall was a few pictures of Paul and his mother. The next set was of his father. He and Paul looked exactly alike. Same bright turquoise eyes and long black hair. Rare around these parts. Well, it seemed the picture was before Paul phased.

He looked good with long hair.

Bella made her way upstairs where she found three bedrooms on one level and four bedrooms on the other. A four-story house with 7 bedrooms. It was impressive.

She wanted to be nosey but fought her urges and headed towards the open door that was revealed to be the bathroom.

…

"oh my gosh.." Bella groaned as she sunk into the deep tub. Paul had everything an exhausted woman could need. bath salts, face masks, lavender soap, and soft music.

It scared her at first because as soon as she turned on the light, the music started.

Once she got over her shock, the music helped relax her.

The more she thought about the ambiance of the bathroom, the more it made sense.

Paul was doing his best to control his temper, so why not have things that calmed him down? He needed a space where he could be somewhat free of the supernatural.

Maybe she did too?

She closed her eyes as Paul's turquoise ones reflected in her mind. When she thought about him, she realized he was different from the others in the group.

Most of the guys in the pack were rowdy and loud at least around her. they teased and joked with her endlessly But with Paul, he was quiet. But more like the quiet deadly type. Like if you got too close he'd snap your neck. But with her, it felt different. Not to mention his physique. He was taller than them too. He practically towered over Sam.

She had been wrong about him. All she heard was silly rumors and things Jacob might have told her in passing.

Most of them were complaints after a long day of patrolling.

Paul the jerk, Paul the asshole, Paul the womanizer.

All of them aspects she had yet to see of him.

If she was being honest, Bella was grateful.

Paul wasn't who she assumed him to be.

He was kind, caring and patient.

She dared to think of him as a friend.

Paul pov:

Paul flipped through his manga when his phone buzzed.

He felt a smile emerge when he saw the sender. It was Bella.

Just wanted to say thank you. you've been a great help and a good friend. I appreciate you.

Paul licked his lips as he thought about the girl.

Not less than a month ago, he couldn't stand her. not that she did anything wrong but he at the time found her to be a distraction and threat to his brothers.

She was always on Jacob's mind for crying out loud. Not to mention the ugly breakup slash not break up she and Jacob went through. Not that they were dating but kind of were. It was weird. Jacob wanted her but she didn't want him and then she wanted Jacob but then the leeches came and took any chance they may have had.

It was just one ball of an emotional mess. Therefore he never took the time to get to know her. Not that he had had the time. He was busy with the pack and his job.

But with Chief Swan in a coma. He thought now was the perfect time to slow things down. At least for work, but on the pack side of things they had to tighten their patrol hours and stay close to the reservation. They still had a few extra cold ones hanging around and they didn't want any slip-ups.

He scratched his nose and groaned. A cold one was coming and they smelled horrible. It was two of the Cullens, he knew that for sure.

With ease, he texted Bella back and tried to ignore the cold ones approaching.

It's all good ya helo. I am just glad I could help. Did you find everything you needed?

Paul couldn't help but laugh at Bella's reply

Dude, I am going to live in your bathroom! Officially, this is now my bathroom! What does ya helo mean?

Paul felt his neck warm up at the thought of Bella naked. But it quickly evaporated from his mind when the stench of the cold ones became overwhelming.

He turned just in time to hear a quiet knock on the door.

"It's open." He said stoically.

The door opened to reveal the pretend doctor and his Stepford wife.

Surprise evident on their faces.

" oh hello. This is unexpected." Dr. Fang greeted.

Paul nodded to them and offered nothing else.

However, Dr. Fang's stepford wife felt she needed to clarify.

"We are so sorry. We are not trying to be rude. What my husband is trying to say is that we were expecting Bella. Is she around?" " She went to take some time for herself." That was all Paul said.

He then continued texting Bella.

There are some clothes in the room across from the bathroom. Feel free to put them on. I'll tell you what it means later.

"Oh if that's the case I'll just call Edward. I am sure they will want to see each other." The Stepford wife told Dr. Fang.

" yes. Edward has been quite stressed recently. It's too bad the wedding has been put on hold for this unfortunate event. I don't know how Edward will pull through."

"Maybe they can have a smaller wedding next week? Just family?" the Stepford wife suggested. "I mean Bella has to see how badly this is hurting Edward. It pains him to be away from her."

Paul almost crushed his phone at the cold one's words.

It was Bella whose father lay dying in the hospital and they were worried about the mind reader!?

It was Bella who sat in her old clothes barely eating and yet the mind reader was the one who was stressed out?

They couldn't be serious right? They had to be joking. And now they wanted to plan a wedding!?

Despite holding his tongue Paul couldn't hold himself back anymore. " do you two hear yourselves?!" he questioned coldly making his voice low and yet full of ice.

"Chief Swan is near death and all you two can talk about is the mind reader? Bella sat here for a whole month by herself and yet the mind reader is stressed out? You two have some nerve!"

"I believe this is a private family conversation." Dr. Fang gestured to the door.

"Well then take it elsewhere," Paul said coldly

Doctor Fang put on a pleasant smile and said "This is forks territory I believe we have the right of passage. It is you who is trespassing. " Paul laughed and sniffed.

"Count Dracula if you would have read the treaty correctly. It says that while Forks is Cullen territory. Forks Hospital is neutral ground. Therefore neither one of us violates the treaty. Anything else you want to throw at me?"

The cold ones stood there looking at him as if he were crazy but they said nothing.

" so with that said. I am staying put and it seems you can too just stay out of my way."

After thirty minutes of awkward silence, the couple gave up and left.

Paul sighed in relief.

" your daughter is a danger magnet chief swan. I don't know how she does it. She's brave though. I'll give her that." He told the comatose chief of police.

It was then Paul swore he saw Charlie's finger twitch.

Maybe there was hope after all.

Chapter Text

Chapter 5: a circle of support

The next morning, Bella knocked on the door of the red house before she unlocked it with her spare key.

Billy always told her she never had to knock that's what the key he had given her was for. However, Bella didn't like making assumptions. She never wanted to invade her godfather's privacy.

" Billy? Hello? You home?"

" in the wood shop bells!" came a deep baritone voice.

Bella made her way through the house that was like a second home but this time the sound of Jacob's loud laughter no longer echoed off the walls.

She walked further down and turned until she came upon the warmth of Billy's woodshop. One thing he always told her was that he was grateful that he lost the use of his legs and not his hands. He used his hands to create. It was his livelihood.

" Bells? What a Surprise. I was going to come see you at the hospital ."

Bella shrugged and said, " I figured I beat you to it." " you look well rested." He complimented.

" I am. I got a full 8 hours. What are you making?"

" Just a new table for some people in forks. The pack is going to deliver it tomorrow. How are you, sweetie?"

" I am taking it day by day." She admitted.

"Are you hungry?"

" I am but I was going to join old Quil for breakfast. Why don't you come with me?"

The Ateara family did not live far from the blacks and the drive over was quick.

Bella cringed at the thought of running into Quil. His disdain for her was thick. She knew he blamed her for Jacob's disappearance most of the pack did too. And now that she knew it was Quil and embry who called her leech lover. It only made things more awkward.

The front door opened and old quil smile widened when he saw her.

" little niece! What a surprise! Come on in! I guess you can too chief."

" Whatever old man!" Billy joked.

He led them to a dining room that was filled with a full spread of food.

It smelled delicious.

" joy?! Can you add another plate to the table?"

"It's not one of the pack, is it? I can't keep feeding those endless garbage disposals!" a feminine voice yelled back.

" Oh relax it's just your cousins!" old quil shouted.

" I don't want to inconvenience anybody - " Bella began but old Quil cut her off.

" nonsense child. Take a seat!"

Bella sat next to Billy fidgeting nervously.

She jumped when the backdoor slammed open.

"MA! GRAMPS! IM HOME! IS BREAKFAST ON THE TABLE!?" a voice shouted.

Bella cringed.

It was Quill.

" quit yelling and go wash your hands!" the feminine voice yelled back.

And then the dining room swung open to reveal a beautiful woman with long black hair and grey eyes. this must be Quils mom, She thought. She gasped when she saw Bella.

" my goodness! Bella swan as I live and breathe! I haven't seen you since you were a baby!"

"uh… hi Mrs. Ateara. I am so sorry I showed up uninvited. I don't mean to inconvenience you." Bella explained nervously.

However, Quil's mom pulled her into a warm hug and Bella felt herself relax. it was a mother hug. Not cold and stiff like Esme's or flighty and fake like her own mothers.

As Bella felt her body relax, all the pent-up emotions she was holding, exploded.

A sob tore from her throat, as Quil's mom held her tighter.

"oh that's it, honey, you let it out. let it all out."

Bella sobbed harder.

For the first time in forever, she felt safe.

Once Bella recovered from her breakdown, breakfast was a pretty fun affair. The Ateara family was loud and full of laughter. At all times.

It was nice for once. She didn't have to play hostess or worry about others watching her eat. She was content to just enjoy the meal.

She was currently in the kitchen doing the dishes with Quil by her side.

This was where the awkwardness set in.

To break the tension, she tried to make small talk.

"so how are you doing Quil?" she asked.

"fine." He said gruffly.

Bella nodded and decided to go quiet. It was obvious Quil didn't want to talk to her.

She was scrubbing the last dish and had handed it to him to dry when he snatched it from her.

"ouch!" she yelped as the chip in the plate cut her skin, from the force of Quil's rude gesture.

She grabbed her hand to see blood seeping from her palm.

"crap! Crap! Crap! Come on..!" Quil groaned angrily as he captured her wrist and dragged her down the hall.

He shoved her into the bathroom and she managed to stumble into the toilet. but this time, Bella was able to catch herself.

She quickly turned to Quil and said "Hey! Quit manhandling me! I may not be a supernatural creature but I know how to aim for your balls!"

He looked at her with wide eyes and then sighed. He looked somewhat remorseful.

"im sorry. You are not my favorite person in the room right now Bella, but that does not excuse my behavior. I'm being a jerk."

"but Quil what did I ever do to you!?" she yelled at him.

Quil sighed and turned his back on her as he grabbed the first aid kit. He then turned back as he took her hand. With gentleness, he began to clean her wound.

" you didn't do anything to me, Bella. But… you hurt my pack brother. You broke his heart and because of you he's out there and he won't come home!"

Bella opened her mouth and then closed it.

Part of Quil's words were correct. Her actions led to Jacob running away but she didn't make him do anything. He chose to run away.

"you're partly right? I will admit that. I was so broken and weak back then. I used Jacob as a crutch. And then I found myself falling in love with him. I admit that. I loved him but… I couldn't see myself with him Quil. we were better off as friends. I made that clear the last time he and I spoke. We would always be friends if he wanted that. But then… Edward… stupid freaking Edward, sent that dumb invitation without my knowledge or consent and that's when Jacob made his choice from there. I understand that he was angry and hurt, but leaving his father and pack behind was selfish. I don't care if never speaks to me again, but you all are his family, he can't just abandon you."

To her surprise, Quil's eyes softened when he looked at her.

"you're his family too Bella."

She opened her mouth to reply but someone beat her to it.

" more than you know."

Quil and Bella turned their head to see old Quil in the doorway watching them.

"come meet me in my office when you two are done."

Old Quil gestured for them to sit crossed-legged on the carpet across from him.

"I want to get this out in the open first off. Just to get some pressure off your shoulders Bella. You and Junior here are cousins. Junior and Jacob just so happen to be cousins too except it goes a little farther down the line. Long story short you and Jacob are by a technicality Cousins as well. But only by a technicality."

To the man's surprise, Bella began to laugh. and then Junior began to laugh as well.

Old Quil stared at them in confusion.

"what's so funny?" he asked.

"it's the fact that now Jake and I have a huge reason not to be together and it's because we are related on a technicality."

Old Quil chuckled.

"I suppose that is funny. That boy going to be in the shock of his life when he gets back. Now, I am sure you want to know about the family lineage correct?"

"please." Bella requested.

" I married your aunt, Molly Swan. She was Charlie's younger sister. Now mind you I had been married before Molly but my first marriage hadn't been the best. I was 40 when I met Molly and she… well she was 26 years old."

Quil and Bella glanced at each other before they nodded for the elder to continue.

"I had a son with my first wife, Quil the fourth. But as I said, that didn't end well. She… abandoned us. divorced me and walked out. left me with an infant son. I raised four, by myself. By the time he was 28, Molly and I had fallen in love. We married Quickly. Of course, Charlie rose to all kinds of hell. His little sister wasn't marrying an old man, even if it was his best friend's dad."

"Can you blame him? That's like Bella marrying William senior and expecting Billy to be ok with it." Quil said sarcastically.

Old Quil hit the were with his cane, and continued to talk.

" Four was 28 and had found a wife of his own. I wasn't young but I wasn't quite old yet either. I was a prominent member of the tribe and held in high regard. Even with all that loneliness crept in. Molly would shop at our store almost every other day. We just… connected. She was a spirited girl with a sense of adventure and I loved that about her. To my surprise, she was the one who asked me out. that bold beauty. You remind me a lot of her Bella. Anyway, like I said, she asked me out and I couldn't say no. The rumors that spread around Forks and La Push were like wildfires! Some said I was keeping her hostage, while others said she was paying me! it was somewhat hilarious. We ignored the rumors and kept on dating. It was a month after we started dating that I proposed. Of course, she said yes. when we told Charlie, he went ballistic! He and four thought that we would date for a little while and get it out of our system. But when Molly turned up with that bracelet, he had a coronery. He gave her an ultimatum, if she married me, he would never speak to her again. Molly chose me."

Bella gasp. No wonder her father had seemed so quiet about her wedding! At first, he was mad but afterward, he was simply quiet.

Now it made sense. He didn't want to repeat history.

"Please tell me they made up!" Bella asked.

Old Quil looked away from her with tears in his eyes. a subtle shake of his head.

"no.. unfortunately, your father allowed his resentment to build. By the time Molly died, it was too late. She was only 37 when she died. I had ten beautiful years out of it. you know, you were the reason, that the relationship with Charlie and our family was mended. He came crying at our doorstep with you in his arms. Renee had disappeared from him and wasn't answering her phone. Billy was already busy with his twins and Charlie didn't want to disturb them. I was still grieving Molly but I… just couldn't hold it against Charlie. I was too old for resentments. That night changed everything for our family. Of course, fourth dying years later didn't fix anything. "

Bella blinked back tears.

Her father's anger, and guilt eating him away. Old Quil's grief and trying to keep his shattered family together.

"did, you and Aunt Molly ever have kids… please say yes," she whispered. To her surprise, Quil reached over and held her hand.

Old Quil closed his eyes and smiled.

"We did. One boy and one girl."

"but…" Bella pushed.

" but resentment grew in their hearts as they grew older and they moved away from the tribe as soon as they turned eighteen. Haven't heard from them since."

Before Old Quil could say anything else, Bella made her way to him. Wrapping her arms around him.

"I won't leave you, Uncle Quil. I promise."

Paul POV:

Paul was glad he brought extra clothes. he figured Bella would be out longer than normal. He knew how hard it was to sit in a hospital all day.

A nervous heartbeat and the smell of anxiety cause him to look up.

Someone was standing outside the door.

It was a women.

After a few minutes, she knocked.

"It's open." He called.

The door opened to reveal Tiffany Call, Embry's mother.

"Miss Call?" he questioned.

She however ignored him and slowly walked over to Charlie. with shaking hands, she touched his face, tracing the outline of his mustache.

"oh honey, I should have been here. I should have been here for you and Bella. I am so sorry. Don't you worry, I am going to be here for you both."

She then looked up, her eyes no longer filled with anxiety but with hope.

"Hello, young man. Where is Bella? And who might you be?"

"My name is Paul Lahote mam, Bella is out at the moment. I-"

The door burst open and Bella's scent filled the room. Paul's eyes rolled into the back of his head as her scent ambushed his nostrils.

Vanilla, and lavender mixed with his own scent, from his clothes and yet a musky undertone.

She was fertile and Paul was an unmated alpha male .

They wanted her.

Paul felt his wolf lunge. Oh now, he wanted to pay attention.

He didn't get too much time to think or try to rein himself in before Bella had thrown herself at him.

Her arms locked themselves around his neck and she buried her face in his shoulder.

"thank you! thank you! thank you! Last night was the best sleep I ever had."

Unfortunately for Paul, the last shred of his self-control was slipping away by the second.

He stood and gently pulled Bella off of him.

With trembling hands, he tilted her head upwards, so that her wide brown eyes could lock with his.

"It's n- no problem. I gotta run but I will be back. You can count on that."

And then he sprinted out of the room, not caring if his chief and elder were watching him go.

As soon as he got to the tree line he phased.

Chapter Text

A/n: hey everyone just wanted to put out a heads-up. Thie future chapters will discuss elements of the Christian faith. If that makes you uncomfortable or bothers you now is the time to stop reading because this will be a consistent theme! Also, there is mention of sexual assault in this chapter! I don't want anyone to feel like something is being shoved down their throat ( that's what she said )Thank you in advance!

Paul pov:

Paul groaned and shivered. Whoever said a cold shower fixed one boner was a liar. He had stood under the cold water for about 15 minutes before he gave up. Instead, he turned the bath one, filled it with lavender bath salts, and sat his horny butt down. It wasn't being horny that was his problem. He could handle being physically attracted to someone but the fact that it was Bella is what was freaking him out. She was a nice girl and good-looking. He could relate to her in many ways. If he was being honest, he and his wolf were intrigued by the girl. However, the pack, the Cold ones, and Jacob would rip him apart if he knew he was thinking of her in this light. Not that he cared about their opinions, but it would create so much unnecessary drama for everyone. Not to mention, Bella was engaged to the cold one. She was taken. She didn't need another guy pursuing her or making her feel bad.

All she needed was a friend.

That's all he was going to be to her.

His wolf however rolled his eyes. Yeah right

…

" um, I'm sorry. I don't know your name." Bella told the woman who was hugging her.

The woman pulled back wiping stray tears from her eyes, and smiled.

" sorry sweetheart. Where are my manners my name is Tiffany call… swan."

The woman said with hesitation.

Bella's eyes went huge.

" I'm sorry what?"

"let's sit down, so I can explain it to you dear."

Bella did as she looked at Tiffany in shock. How many more family secrets did her father have?

" I was raped, when I was 19 years old. nine months later, Embry was born. My family wanted to ban me from the Makah reservation and disown me. you see I never told anyone I was raped. I was terrified of what that truly meant for me. So in my family's eyes, I had gone and gotten knocked up just for the heck of it. I didn't fight them on it. I let them think whatever it is they wanted to think. They wouldn't believe me anyway. But here I was 19 pregnant and I had nowhere to go. I just so happened to bump into Charlie Swan, on a rainy day on the side of the road. My engine was dead and I had no one to call. He was a simple officer at the time. And freshly divorced. When he saw me crying he asked me what was wrong and for some reason, I just started blubbering all my problems to him. He listened while we waited for the tow truck. Once the tow truck came, he slid 200$ into my pocket and helped me get into a hotel. I was a single pregnant female and it wasn't safe for me to be on my own. But I pressed on. I found a job and I lived at the hotel for a while. About a month later, I received a knock on my door. It was Charlie. He had come to check on me. I was grateful for his company. When I realized I was starting to show more, I had to make a decision. I could have my baby and live out of a hotel. But I also had nowhere to go. Charlie and I talked about this and he said he'd help me out. He went to the Quileute elders and asked if I could stay on the land. There were a few houses available that I could afford. When the elders voted only one person was sympathetic to my plight. Old quil. He took Charlie aside and explained how Charlie could bend the rules."

" How?" Bella asked when Tiffany took a break.

" I would have to be related to someone on the reservation either by blood or by marriage."

It was then Bella got the hint.

" old Quil and Dad arranged a marriage for you?" Bella questioned "Yes, mam. I married your father a week later. Because Charlie's sister was old Quils's wife, that made Charlie old Quils brother in law. Therefore he had partial rights meaning Charlie's native wife could live on the reservation. I've lived there ever since."

" so wait you're telling me that you and Dad have been married for about what 10 years! Why didn't he say anything?" Bella asked Tiffany sighed.

" try to see it from our perspectives honey I was 19 and pregnant. your dad was only 20 and freshly divorced. We were married in deed, not because of love."

" so what you two just stayed married. Why not get divorced?"

"Because the divorce is conditional. If we divorce I have to leave the reservation plus Charlie said he didn't want to have a second failed marriage. He was fine with our arrangement. Not to mention the perks of some late-night booty calls! Your father was pretty longlasting at his age."

Bella choked.

" dad! Booty calls! I can't. I seriously can't right now. Moving on!" Tiffany laughed.

" You are just like your father. He would talk about you all the time."

Bella shook her head. This was a lot to take in.

" so wait. What about Embry? Does he know?"

Tiffany stiffened at her son's name.

" no. He doesn't "

" Wait. So you're telling me that embry who already struggles with the idea of who his father is, has a stepfather who would adore him and you two just don't say anything?!" Bella accused.

" it's complicated Bella! Besides Charlie has spent a lot of time with

Embry. He was with Embry for every step of his life! He looks to Charlie as his father! He even calls him dad sometimes!"

" But you still neglected to tell Embry why Charlie is so important! And now that you explain how deep their relationship goes, it explains his hate for me!".

With that said, Bella stood.

" where are you going?" Tiffany called out.

" to go find my brother!"

When Bella opened the door, she gasped…

Standing Outside her father's hospital door was Embry.

He had tears streaming down his cheeks and his hands were trembling.

Not caring for the danger she might been in. Bella took the trembling shapeshifter and dragged him outside.

" come on Embry let's get some fresh air.".

The two estranged siblings walked in silence along the beach. The august air was warm and Bella could taste the salt on her tongue.

She was grateful Paul left his truck, she was able to drive away with Embry quickly.

Even though they weren't speaking, she would see Embry give a subtle shake of his head as if he was trying to get rid of an unwanted thought.

"soo, I'm assuming you heard everything?" Bella questioned.

"every last word." He told her.

"so..what do you want to do?" she asked.

"what does any of it matter? The only man I thought of as a father is in a coma and to make it worse, I was never wanted! My mom was raped, Bella. If I hadn't been born she would have never been in this predicament in the first place."

Bella hesitated before she pulled Embry into a tight hug. He towered over her but somehow she maneuvered him so that his head was lying on her shoulder.

"Embry call swan you listen to me, little brother. Despite how you were created, you have always been wanted. You have your brothers, your mom, Charlie, and me."

Embry snorted and pushed away from her.

"yeah right. everyone always leaves me. My mom with her stupid business trips, Jacob with his stubbornness, you marrying your dumb leech, and Charlie who decided to have a heart attack. You know that was your fault, right? You took the only dad I had away from me Bella! If you hadn't met that stupid leech then maybe we could have been a family. You and me, we could have been siblings! You would have made the perfect sister! But nooo, you just had to get with the leech, and in a few months you'll go crawling back to him, leaving Charlie heartbroken if he lives through this!" As Bella listened to Embry's rant, she realized something.

Marrying Edward wouldn't have just affected her.

It would have affected and hurt everyone she cared about. People she didn't even realize were involved.

Bella felt tears come to her eyes as her selfishness was exploited before her very eyes.

"I am not going anywhere, Embry."

Embry tilted his head to look up at her. By now, he had sat himself on the ground.

"I don't believe you." he challenged.

Bella shouldn't have but she couldn't resist stomping her foot in the sand like a five-year-old.

"darn it Emebry I need you to listen to me. to hear me ok! I am not going anywhere. I am not leaving our dad, our mom, or you. theirs too many people counting on me for me to just give up my life now. Not to mention leaving Quil is out of the question. Among others. I just don't want to be selfish anymore. So please believe me. As your sister. I am not leaving. I know you hate me but-"

"wait, hold on, hate you? Bells I could never hate you. why would you think that?" He asked Bella shrugged.

"you and Quil. we were good for a while and then you both started being very cruel. The snide remarks, and the gossip. It hurt. And I never understood why. At least not until now. You were angry with my choices right?"

Embry chuckled and pulled Bella down next to him.

" I was angry because of what it meant. You marrying Cullen meant we couldn't be a family. I mean, I knew something was going on with my mom and Charlie but I didn't know what. and then when your marriage announcement came out, I felt so hurt because that meant Charlie would miss you. I've seen that man cry over you Bella and cry over the pain of life. And seeing how truly disturbing and possessive those leeches are over you. it angered me. so… I started to treat you like crap because of how pissed off I was. But that wasn't fair and I am sorry Bella. I was wrong."

Bella laid her head on embry shoulder.

"I'm sorry too embry. "

"by the way, what did mean about Quil?" he asked

"oh yeah. Apparently quils my cousin and old Quil is my uncle and so is Jacob which is a little awkward. Cause you know the whole im in love with you debacle."

Embry eyes widened at her revelation.

"dude! No way! being related to Quil is cool and all but Jacob! That's like some Oedipus Rex tragedy!" Embry exclaimed. " please tell me you didn't kiss him!"

Bella pulled her hair and looked away.

"nooo! Bells! You kissed your cousin! Was their tongue?! Please say no?"

Once again, Bella looked away.

This time, Embry howled with laughter.

"oh man Bells, you are never going to live this down!"

Before Bella could defend herself, a figure running toward her, caught her eye.

It was Paul and he was smiling.

Bella felt her her breath leave her lungs and her heart skipped a beat.

She had to admit Paul lahote was growing on her. and he didn't even have to do anything.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7: The Great Escape:

" Bella! Bella! You gotta come back to the hospital! It's Charlie! He's awake!" Paul exclaimed when he got to her.

Without thinking, Bella took Paul's hand in her own and began to run back to his truck.

" come on embry! Dad's awake!" she shouted over her shoulder …

Embry and Bella panted as they burst through Charlie's hospital door.

Carlisle and another doctor stood over her father while Tiffany stood in a corner with her arms folded. A look of anger on her face.

The look softened however when she saw them.

"Oh Bella, Embry" she greeted as she pulled the duo into a hug.

Bella was the first one to pull back as she tried to look over Tiffany's shoulder.

"Is he awake? What did he say?"Bella asked.

"We don't know much at the moment. The doctor pushed me out of the way as soon as he opened his eyes. I tried to tell them I was his wife but whose going to believe me?"

"I'll handle this," Bella told her stepmother with determination "Carlisle? What's going on?"

The latter was giving a nurse instructions before he turned to her. "Bella, hello. I am glad you were able to get here so fast. Charlie did wake up but it didn't last. he was only alert for five minutes before he went back under. This is a rare occurrence but it has happened before."

"so what does that mean Carlisle?" she demanded. She needed clarification and he wasn't being clear. "it means for now we wait and see. Maybe he will come out of it again, or maybe he won't. we just have to wait."

"wait! We don't have time to just wait! My father is dying! There has to be something you can do! Why would he just wake up suddenly and then fall back into a coma? It doesn't make sense. Did… did Alice see anything? Did you do something to my father?!"

"Bella you being hysterical ." Carisile accused . " we may need to sedate her."

Before Bella could accuse Carlisle of anything else, hot hands were pulling her away and into a chiseled chest.

It was then she realized was crying.

"hush now, ya helo. It's going to be alright." Paul calmed her.

Bella sobbed into his chest.

"but they're doing something to him, Paul. I just know it. I don't trust them."

"then as Charlie's daughter, you have the right to ask for another doctor." He stated firmly.

Her eyes widened at the realization. That was right, she could request another doctor! Carsile didn't have to be her father's doctor! She didn't have to worry about the Cullens hovering over her family any longer.

Turning herself around, so that her back was to Paul's chest, Bella stared at Carlisle.

His golden eyes were bright from just feeding. His hair smoothed back and his face stone-like. And that's just what he was.

A rock.

A rock who happened to occasionally blink and yet deep in those golden irises, Bella saw the truth. There was danger lurking in those eyes.

Suddenly it felt as if the room was closing in on her.

Edward was right, they were the predators and she was their prey. She had always been their prey and right now they were losing her. therefore they had to do anything they could to keep her in their clutches.

That included messing with her father.

Bella gasped as an idea came to her.

With urgency, she grabbed Tiffany by the hand. Ordering Paul and embry to stay in the room.

" Bella, what's going on?" Tiffany asked.

"We are transferring Dad to the reservation hospital. We are not safe here."

"but-but… the reservation clinic isn't that big and we don't have the specialist doctors needed," Tiffany argued.

"just trust me, Tiffany. I believe being in tribal land will be better for

Dad than anything else. Parts of me don't think his heart attack was just stress-related. Parts of me feel like it was done on purpose and I think I know who. So, I need you to call Uncle Quil and I am going to talk to the chief of staff."

"wait what are you going to say?" Tiffany asked.

"Don't worry, I have just the right words."

Bella collapsed on the clinic stairs as mental fatigue filled her body.

It was finally done, and after five hours of debate and arguments, she was able to convince the Forks hospital to discharge her father to the reservation clinic. She might have used some manipulation on her part, but it was done.

The tribal elders even backed her up and so did the pack. They knew what the Cullens were and didn't surprise them when Bella told them her theory.

Her father had been fine on the day of the wedding however, once they got down the aisle his heart attack happened.

Bella was convinced that Jasper was the one who started her father's heart attack. Anything to get her out of their lives. at least that was what she thought Jaspers's motives were. Bella had been a danger to their family ever since the day she and Edward met and with the threat of the Volturi at their doorstep, Jasper would do anything to get rid of her. but he couldn't have done it alone. It couldn't be Alice cause she wouldn't want that, if anything Alice wanted Bella in the family, so allowing Charlie to have a heart attack wasn't on her agenda. But, what if Alice knew that Bella would fall apart if Charlie died, that she would be easier to manipulate? So why not use Charlie's heart attack to her advantage? Make her father sicker so that Bella could become putty in their hands?

"argh, I don't know!" she grunted aloud.

Right now. It was all just hearsay and she had no evidence to back it up.

She groaned again.

She would have to get some evidence, but that would require talking to one of the Cullens. And that was something she didn't want to do right now. She wanted to stay as far away from them as possible.

But maybe it was time to end things.

She couldn't keep hiding from Edward anyway.

"hey. There you are." A voice said behind her.

Bella turned to see Paul looking down at her with a soft smile.

"want to get out of here?"

She hesitated as she looked back at the clinic door.

"I don't know… I don't want to leave dad. What if he wakes up again?"

"Well, Embry and his mom are in there. alongside the chief. Maybe it will be good for you to sneak away. you fought pretty hard today. Im proud of you."

A blush crept up her face, as Paul held a hand out for her.

"come on ya helo, let's get out of here."

…

Paul felt his wolf pur in contentment, as Bella buried herself in his side. She felt safe with them. They had driven an hour out of town just to get here.

His arm was slung around her shoulder as they entered the loud building.

"Where are we?" she shouted over the music.

"It is called a café disco! My aunt owns it! it's an alcohol and drugfree café! It has three levels. Level 3 is for board games. level 2 is the dance floor, and level 1 is the diner. Come on, I'll take you where it's quieter."

Paul's wolf wanted to howl in delight when he felt Bella cling to him as they moved through the crowd.

Her scent was mind-blowing and gave him so much peace. It calmed his wolf from the mountain of anger that liked to sneak up on him.

He led her down the stairs to what looked like a diner with a jukebox. A small dance floor in the corner.

"have a seat. Want a milkshake or a soda?" he questioned as he went behind the counter.

" salted caramel malt would be nice."

Paul laughed and said "One salted caramel malt coming up."

Once he made her drink and got himself a soda, Paul sat beside her, allowing the soft music of the jukebox to fill in the silence.

" I don't know how many times I can say this but thank you again. you have been such a big help. I hope you don't think im taking advantage of your kindness. I made that mistake with Jacob. I don't want to be that person anymore. Using people when im broke."

Paul growled as he tilted Bella's chin. Causing her to look him in the eyes.

"Listen here, and listen well ya helo. I am not Jacob black and don't let people use me. I offered you help because I empathized with you, not because I was trying to fix you for my own selfish gain. You are not some broken porcelain doll that needs to be coddled and wrapped in bubble wrap. You're a strong beautiful woman, who I am glad to get to know. And you are not broken, if anything you're a strong warrior trying to fight her way through the monsters that keep trying to hold you back. "

Paul couldn't look away when Bella's brown eyes dilated as he spoke.

"I don't get it. you talk to me like you've known me for years." Without thinking, Paul reached out and tucked hair behind her ear.

"maybe our souls have." He said softly.

"tell me what you do outside the pack?"

This was the part Paul dreaded. Would she look at him any differently if he told her what he did at night?

"so two days out the week, I work here for my aunt. I take extra shifts when I can. And then the rest of the time, I box. I started off in underground fights before my cousin saw how good I was. Now I'm in the amateurs. I win all my fights and then every three months, I lose a few, just to keep the officials from sniffing around too much. It takes a lot of control for me not to accidentally kill someone with just one punch. That's my boxing name by the way. they call me one punch Hamza."

"Hamza?" Bella questioned

"It's Arabic for strong, my mother was Arabic. Does any of this surprise you?" he asked. He was ready to hear her complaints that he a supernatural creature, beating on humans.

"It's actually really smart. You get to practice your self-control and get out your anger without hurting anyone too much. Does the pack know?"

Paul snorted, as he downed his drink and stood.

"yeah, right. Sam would have my head. Not to mention the uproar of the elders. Let's just call it our little secret. Come on we are going to play pool."

"I've never played." She told him.

"don't worry I'll teach you. ya helwa"

"you keep calling me that. What does it mean?" she asked.

Paul stepped closer to her, bending down so that their foreheads were touching.

"it means my beautiful…"

To his surprise, when he looked back on it years later. He realized, that Bella kissed him first.

Chapter Text

Chapter 8: Hard Conversations:

Bella pulled back as if lightning had struck her. The kiss felt good. Too good.

" crap Paul I can't do this. I'm sorry but I'm still engaged to Edward and this is complicated. "

Paul shrugged. As if her rejection hadn't bothered him in the slightest.

" that's fine by me. Let's play pool."

"wait! I don't get it!" Bella told him as grabbed his arm. " Aren't you mad? Feeling rejected? I don't want you to think I was trying to lead you on!"

Paul turned to face her. His eyes held nothing but calm.

" Bella, that kiss was consensual. I wanted it. You wanted it, but I have no obligations to you nor do you have any obligations to me. For now, we are just friends. If anything changes in our relationship, we will allow it to happen naturally. I will admit that kiss was nice but that is all it will be. At least until we make up our minds. Just a kiss. Now let's play pool."

Confusion showed on Bella's face.

" so what no I'll be waiting for you. Or you need to change your mind or else? "

Paul shook his head.

" how many times can I say it, Bella? I am not Jacob nor am I that cold one. We are just friends. Nothing more, nothing less. I am not holding anything over your head."

A weight lifted from Bella's chest when she heard his words. " thank you, Paul. You have no idea what those words mean to me."

Paul smiled at her and then put a pool stick in her hand.

" come on ya helwa, I'm gonna turn you into a star player."

…

"Can I ask you a question?" Bella began as she and Paul worked together to make dinner. Once they left the diner, they settled back at Paul's house. Soup and salad, something light because neither one of them was too hungry.

"Go for it."

Bella hesitated before she finally got the courage to ask.

"I hope this doesn't offend you or make you feel uncomfortable but..how did you deal with your mom being in the hospital? I mean it's one thing if it's me, but.. I find it hard handling when people im close to are suffering."

Paul stopped chopping to look at her. a sense of sadness in his eyes and yet an understanding.

"to be honest. It was my faith. My mom would take me to church with her every Tuesday and Sunday but I never really cared. Like it was ok, but it wasn't until she was on her deathbed that I finally took it seriously. I used to bargain with God that if he'd spare her, I would do whatever he wanted. But.. my mom on one of her rare lucid days, told me that she didn't want me crying at her bedside. She knew where she was going. She was going to heaven and she wanted to see me there. From that day on I began to seek out my own

answers. I wanted to experience God on my own. That's when I met Jesus. I was at my lowest point as my mom struggled to stay alive every day. The day she died, I was alone. My dad couldn't be there because he was stationed a few hours away, and it was just me. As I held her hand and heard her heart stop beating the machines went off and I sobbed so hard. My eyes were closed and my heart hurt. I had lost my mom. As I cried I felt someone hugging me. A warm and comforting presence filled the room then. Instead of the grief I was feeling just a few seconds ago, I then felt peace and comfort. It was then I knew Jesus was in that room with me."

"but how did you know he was their Paul? How do you know you were not basing your experience on some random emotion or what you thought you felt? Neither one of my parents has been big on religion, so I don't know if I can count on some magical being in the sky."

Paul chuckled.

"you have to experience God for yourself, Bella. And im not talking about your emotions. I am talking about an experience where you see the power of God flow in your life. All you have to do is ask him."

"but I don't even know who he is Paul! How do you talk to someone you don't know?"

"That's what conversations are for sweetheart. Think about it Bella, you live in a world full of vampires and shapeshifters. Why is believing in God hard to think about."

"Because If this so-called God exists, Why does he allow all these bad things to happen? like Starvation and death! And wars! your mom's death and Charlie's heart attack! How could he allow that?"

Paul had moved closer to her now. So close she could feel the heat from his skin. He gently took her hand as he allowed her to question his choice to believe.

" doesn't that make you angry!? That all this suffering could just end and we could all be happy! Your mom would still be alive! And my dad… my dad wouldn't be dying!"

Bella felt herself break. She was trying to be so strong, putting up a front for everyone else but the truth was, she was exhausted and so tired of fighting at every moment.

She just wanted some peace. But how could she get it, if she was being hit on every side?

Paul pulled her in for a hug. His strong arms encased her.

To her surprise, he began to sing.

" I know it's all you've got to just be strong

And it's a fight just to keep it together, together. I know you think that you are too far gone But hope is never lost, hope is never lost

Hold on, don't let go

Hey, hold on, don't let go

Just take one step closer

Put one foot in front of the other You'll get through this just follow the light in the darkness

You're gonna be ok

I know your heart is heavy from those nights

But just remember that you are a fighter, a fighter

You never know just what tomorrow holds

And you're stronger than you know

Oh, you're stronger than you know

When the night is closing in

Don't give up and don't give in

This won't last, it's not the end

It's not the end

You're gonna be ok

As Paul's warm baritone voice washed over her, she felt her eyes heavy from the exhaustion close shut.

It was the second-best sleep she would ever have.

…

The next morning, Bella awoke looking around in confusion.

Where was she?

After five minutes of trying to get her head together, she realized she was in Rachel and Rebecca's old room.

As she turned on her side, a smile crept on her face when she noticed a gift next to her. it was a box wrapped in lavender wrapping paper, on top of it was violet flowers and a note.

She smelled the flowers first, the sweet aroma causing her to relax all over again. Then she read the note Dear yehelo,

Good morning, you fell asleep during our conversation last night. I know things are stressful for you right now. But maybe you should take a day to yourself and figure out what you want to do next. Now that Charlie is protected on the reservation, you don't have to worry about being by his side all day long. besides, I think some of the elders will show their faces more as well. I would have loved to spend the day with you today but I have some extra patrolling to do since baby Alpha abandoned us and I have to put in a few hours, at the café. The gift next to you is a book that I think will help with your journey In knowing who God truly is.

By the way, I sneaked into the chief's house to put you into bed, so don't scare the old man too much.

Have a great day, Yours truly Paul.

Bella reread the letter twice before she grabbed the gift. She couldn't open it just quite yet.

Paul was making her feel things she had no clue if she was ready to face. Like Paul said they were just friends and they had no obligations toward one another.

Bella closed her eyes and took a deep breath.

She needed to relax. She couldn't overthink Paul's kindness. Right now she needed to focus on her life and what she wanted to do. She needed to break up with Edward and then move on.

" I am going to need some help though." She thought aloud.

She couldn't go by herself. She didn't trust the Cullens to not try to gaslight or manipulate her.

She would need wise counsel.

…

The smell of sausage and biscuits filled Billy's black nose as he rolled into this kitchen. His then normally quiet house was now filled with the sound of music from the radio and loud laughter.

A smile crept upon his face as he saw who was in his kitchen.

Samuel Uley and Emily Young were laughing at his breakfast table. While Quil and Embry stood side by side in front of the oven. It seemed like Quil was cooking the sausage and Embry was stirring a pot of something he couldn't see.

And then chopping away at the counter was Bella. Her hair was tied back and she seemed determined.

"Well, good morning everyone. It's quite a surprise to see a full house. What's the occasion?"

"Bella invited us!" Emily said cheerfully. It was nice to see a smile on her face, the poor girl had been stressed out for some time. Billy was sure she appreciated not having to cook for a pack of wolves at the moment.

"Good morning Billy." Bella greeted as she leaned down to kiss him on the cheek. "Hope you're hungry. I invited guests. I hope that was alright?"

Billy smiled warmly.

"my home has always been your home, Bella."

"let's eat!"Quil cheered.

…

After a pleasant breakfast, Billy pushed his plate away and looked at Bella. She had barely touched her food and looked as if she could handle a few more hours to rest.

"Bella, what's on your mind?" Billy asked getting to the point. He knew that Bella hadn't called them all here for nothing.

Bella smiled seeing that he wasn't one to beat around the bush.

"We need the Cullens out of our lives and the only way for me to do that is to break up with Edward and move on. It will be better for everyone. However, my biggest fear is that if I were to meet up with any of the Cullens alone, they would try to manipulate and gaslight me into staying. Even threating Charlie. I would like the pack's help with this but I didn't want to ask one person and not the other, or have any miscommunications and confusion going on."

If Billy could, he would have jumped for joy however, Emily had to ruin it.

" but Bella I thought you loved Edward. He's the love of your life. Don't you want to be happy with him? I mean you've come this far." Emily debated.

Billy gasped while the wolves looked at Emily in horror and confusion.

" Emily!" Sam chided.

Emily however shook her head.

" no Sam, Bella deserves to be happy and Edward has always been the one she chose. So why give up on that now? Sometimes you have to fight for what's yours despite how others might feel."

Once again Billy couldn't believe his ears. The alpha's imprint could not possibly be encouraging Bella to stay with Edward.

He opened his mouth to scold Emily but Bella beat him to it.

" I appreciate your concern, Emily. But this breakup goes beyond my silly emotions. Not only my life but the tribe's life is hindered by the presence of the Cullens. Their very presence near forks and LA push has caused an impact on the environment and the pack. Vampires are predators therefore the animals run away which means any humans who hunt are out of luck because their prey is being scared away. Not to mention any vegetation that the animals helped keep maintained is now growing wild and with seven vampires so close to the area, we don't want any more boys or girls to phase. It's creating an unbearable lifestyle. The pack can't move forward with their lives while the Cullens are so close. It's one thing for the occasional nomad to pass through but seven of them is too much plus the Denali clan is still hovering around. That's nothing but a recipe for trouble."

"But what about You Bella? Don't your emotions matter, isn't what you want important? What do you get out of breaking up with Edward? Wouldn't that just make you miserable? And how do you know you truly want to break up with him? I mean you thought you loved Jacob and look how that turned out "

Bella cut Emily off.

" Emily enough! My decision is final and I won't argue about it! I didn't bring you here for your opinion. My goal was to talk to Sam and Billy, not you! I invited you out of politeness! Now if you excuse me I would like to hear what Sam and Billy have to say."

Billy held back a laugh at the look on Emily's face. He was sure that Bella was the first person other than Sam who stood up to Emily and didn't take her fake personality.

Emily gasped and looked to Sam for comfort but he gave her none. He was looking at Bella with a contemplative look.

"Bella." Sam called softly. "is this what you want? Because thiers no going back. Are you serious about this?"

" Yes, Sam. This is my choice. It has to end. I am done with them."

Billy watched as Sam continued to stare at Bella. A series of different emotions is displayed on his face. vulnerability that Billy was not used to seeing in his current alpha.

" very well then. You have my support. Billy?" Sam questioned.

" you have my support as well dear. Do you have any idea how you want to do this?"

Bella smiled.

" I have the perfect plan."

Chapter Text

Chapter 9: Unexpected

Nothing could take the smile off Edward's face as he happily sat in Carlisle's office.

Bella had called him just two days ago and needed to talk to him and Carlisle. Then she would talk to the family.

Of course, Edward already knew that she would call and why.

Alice had seen a vision of her crying and apologizing about what a fool she was to act this way and that she wanted to have the wedding as soon as possible.

He played it off well when she called, sounding so heartbroken and lonely without him.

He was ready to see her and to have her scent overwhelm him again. Venom coated his throat as he thought about her. He imagined her so lost and helpless without him, she would be beside herself.

Edward's meditation was cut off as Carlisle stood in front of him, trying to get his attention.

"I'm sorry?" he questioned.

" I was saying that Bella is coming down the hallway. Prepare yourself. It's been a while since you have been in her presence. "

" I am in full control, Carlisle ."

I never doubted that, just be ready for anything. He thought.

" everything will work out smoothly. I just want Bella as my wife and I want her away from those mutts. They are not good for her! They warp her mind!"

" yes, she has been very out of character recently despite Charlie's health there was no excuse for her behavior but I am glad she is starting to come around. "

Edward and Carlisle froze when they heard Bella's heartbeat coming down the hall.

As soon as they heard the knocks Carlisle was opening the door.

"Bella hello dear."

Edward took in his mate as Carlisle let her in his office. She was wearing a plaid button-down and black skinny jeans with white tennis shoes. The first thing he noticed was the strong scent of a wet dog, it permeated her skin.

Edward flinched and hissed lowly at the odor. She reeked.

" Bella my love. your not wearing the outfits Alice sent to your home." He chided. Alice had been so kind as to send his mate new clothes that would not stink of wet dog.

" I have not been home this whole time so I hadn't been able to change. My apologies. Anyway, can we all sit? I have some things I want to discuss and I am sure you're wondering why I chose the hospital. I wanted to talk to you both privately without any of the family having to leave their home. "

"That was very thoughtful of you love but I am sure they wouldn't have minded," Edward said as he pulled Bella into a hug. He wanted to smell her wonderful scent.

However, he was quick to step back as the smell of wet dogs overwhelmed him once again.

" oh sorry Edward, is the smell too much?" She asked innocently.

" I am afraid it is dear." He told her.

"Perhaps we can open a window?" She suggested.

" that would be a lovely idea." Carlisle agreed.

He then turned towards the window and opened it all the way.

Allowing the fresh September air in. Once the window was opened everyone sat down.

" what can we do for you dear?" Carlisle asked

"Well, I wanted to apologize."

Edward grabbed Bella's hand, excitement coursing through him.

Here came, the apology, the tears. He couldn't help himself when he said "My love we accept your apology. While your behavior was childish, we understand your human emotions are hard to handle. Allow us to move on from this and get married right away. We can even get married in Vegas if you like. I know Alice will be mad about that but I am sure she will understand."

" I am sure she will be upset but you two getting married is what is important. we can have Charlie put in final care while he lives out his final months. All you have to do is sign the paperwork. I have it right here actually. " Carlisle said as he pulled out the manilla folder.

It was papers to discharge Charlie into private hospice care.

" he's dying Bella. It's time we faced that."

Bella smiled at Carlisle and tilted her head to the side.

Edward's eyes widened at the look on her face. It wasn't a kind look.

It was scary.

" you know Dr. Cullen, when I said I was sorry. I wasn't apologizing for my actions or my attitude. I was apologizing for this."

Then through the open window, three figures appeared.

One jumped on Carlisle and two jumped on Edward, Quickly ripping his head off.

Bella laughed as Edward looked around in shock at his headless body and the two wolves who were now tossing it back and forth.

"right guys. Enough playing. Let's get this done."

Sam made a sound that had Embry and Quil freeze.

And right on time, a Knock on Carlisle's office door sounded.

Bella smiled and opened it a tad. It was a nurse.

" yes, mam?" Bella greeted.

" oh I'm sorry I was looking for Dr. Cullen, we heard a loud noise. "

" Oh sorry about that I knocked over one of his picture frames. Dr. Cullen a nurse is here to see you."

Bella turned around and gave Carlisle a look that said not to make a scene. Still, in Sam's grip, Carlisle called out "Everything is ok Julie. Silly Bella here just knocked over a picture frame and surprised me."

" all right then. I'll leave you to it."

As soon as the nurse was gone, Billy and Elder Quil came into view.

Bella smiled at them and opened the door wider.

"Welcome to the party." She greeted as she closed the door."Now that everyone is here let's wrap this up."

Bella went over to Edward's head and picked it up. The wolves growled but she ignored them.

" Edward. I am breaking up with you. I don't want to marry you and I don't want to be friends. I need a clean break from you and your family. "

Bella then turned to Carlisle.

" the chief of the Quileute tribe and their elders have some words for you."

It was then Billy rolled forward to look into Carlisle's eyes.

"Carlisle Cullen, I Chief William Black, chief of the Quileute people call our treaty void. You and your coven are to leave forks

permanently within the next two days. If you are not gone by then the Quielte pack will kill you."

"on what grounds?" Carlisle asked calmly but obviously frustrated. " our treaty states that we have free reign over our own land as long as no humans get hurt."

"you broke the treaty, not once but twice. Once when Bella was bitten in Phoenix and twice when she was hurt last year at her birthday party. Not to mention the emotional manipulation you have used upon the girl and the dazzling effect your kind has on humans. Our treaty is over and the ties you once had to Bella Swan are cut."

Carilse looked over at Bella with dark eyes, and a smile on his face.

"Bella sweetheart, have you forgotten about the deal you made? The promise you were supposed to keep? Did you tell your dear chief about that?"

Bella smiled back.

"Actually, I did think about that. I have a visitor for you Carlisle"

Once again, someone else jumped through the window. And if Carilse could have paled he would have.

Standing in a black cloak with ruby-red eyes, was Aro Volturi.

"ahh, Carlisle. It seems trouble seems to keep following you. of course, it is of your own doing. You can imagine, my surprise when I got a call from young Isabella and chief black here. Carilse you are in so much trouble. I must blame this whole mess on you, sir. You see if you had controlled young Edward from the first day, this wouldn't have happened. Or if you would have killed or changed young Isabella from the get-go, this whole mess could also have been prevented. And yet you still kept screwing up, killing James but not killing Vicotria led to a gaggle of newborns running amok in forks almost causing us exposure. For that, you must Pay for your crimes. If it hadn't been for the shapeshifters you would have been in immense danger. "

Carlisle stared at Aro, eyes wide with shock and frozen in fear.

"oh don't be so quiet Dear Carlisle! Did you think Word wouldn't get back to me at some point? I love that you tried to keep the shapeshifters hidden from the Volturi during your little newborn battle but the shapeshifters and the Volturi have already known about each other. You see we have had a treaty ourselves. It goes back for generations. But that can be discussed at a later time, I can see some of the younger shapeshifters are getting anxious at the close proximity of a blood drinker. Anyway, your whole coven will come to Italy, and from there I will see what I will do with you."

Aro then turned to Billy.

" well then chief black, our deal Is settled. You gave me the Cullens and in exchange Bella is free. Such a genius plan! I will ask that all conditions of our agreement be met. Right young Isabella?"

"of course Aro, I will keep my word as long as you keep yours."

"of course my dear. Would you like to hear what I found out?" he asked.

Bella closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. Ready to hear the truth.

"yes!"

Aro nodded and grimly turned to look at Carlisle walking over to him and touching his forehead. He then did the same to Edward. Aro muttered something and then turned back at Bella.

"My dear, it turns out that on the day of your wedding, Rosalie and Jasper were the ones who caused your father's heart attack. They poisoned him, hoping that you would fall into a deep depression and not want to marry young Edward. Edward and Carlisle found out and decided to use your father's heart attack for their own game. They decided, that if Charlie were to die, you would cling to the Cullen family while you grieved. Giving them the time to manipulate you at your lowest. You would be so upset and distraught that you would want to leave with the Cullens and never return to La Push or Forks. Therefore they made him even worse than what he was. However, when you accused them of doing something to your father, they realized you knew something was up and they were going to kidnap you from this meeting today. Apparently, Alice had a vision of you crying and apologizing which had the Cullens convinced you would come willingly. If you hadn't left with them immediately today, they would have taken you by force."

The wolves growled.

Bella swallowed and looked at Edward who was trying to speak but couldn't.

" you were right. Vampires really are selfish creatures."

She then looked at Aro.

" I have all the information I need. I'm done here. Thank you, Master Aro."

"of course dear. Chief Black, you have my many thanks. I have been waiting for eons to get my hands on Carlisle broody spawns. Now," Aro said as he turned to Carlisle.

"you have 48 hours Dr. Cullen, to put in your resignation. I will have my guards on standby if you try anything. Do not keep me waiting and as leverage, I will take young Edward with me. who knows the fun we could have with him."

With a simple snap of his fingers, two Volturi guards appeared, taking Edward from Quil and Embry.

And then the four of them were gone.

Bella didn't say a word as she, Billy, old Quil, and the wolves left Carlisle alone in his office.

She would never see him or any of the Cullens ever again.

Chapter Text

Chapter 10: Falling for you and falling hard

Bella stood outside the cafe disco with the container in her hand.

It had been a long day and she just wanted to get away for a while.

As soon as Aro gave Carlisle the ultimatum she and the wolves left.

She then spent the rest of her day visiting her father and tucked into Embry and Tiffany's side.

It was now nighttime and she had snuck out of the house to get away.

The music blared from the second level of the café as she entered.

It was packed with people on the dance floor and a band on the stage.

Bella continued to the first-floor diner to find it packed as well.

Her heart skipped a beat when she finally saw Paul in the sea of faxes.

He was wearing a white button-down shirt with a black vest and black slacks. Around his waist was a black apron.

He was currently taking an order from a group of girls.

A group of familiar girls.

Bella groaned. It was Jessica Stanley, Lauren Mallory, and Kate Marshall. And of course, they were flirting with Paul.

Something akin to jealousy arose in Bella. She saw red as Jessica flirtatious ran her hand up and down Paul's arm.

She began to make her way over to them but stopped when realized something.

Who was she to get angry over another girl touching Paul? It wasn't as if they were together. She and Paul were just friends. Right? So why did she feel as if something more was brewing? But at the same time, Bella couldn't just jump into another relationship even if the opportunity allowed. She needed to figure her life out first. She needed to get a good-paying job and sign up for some community college courses. She couldn't wallow or stall anymore.

She had to take control of her life and not allow others to control her.

A soft and yet rough hand on her own drew her out of her internal pep talk.

When she looked up there was Paul. Smiling down at her.

" ya helwa. What a wonderful surprise. " he greeted.

" hey um, I brought you dinner. I didn't know how long your shift was going to be and I wanted to surprise you. If that's ok."

" of course it's ok! I always want to be with you. Lucky for you, I haven't taken my lunch. Just hang on one second."

Paul stepped away to talk to a nearby waitress before he turned back to her. As she waited she noticed Jessica, Katie, and Lauren mean mugging her and throwing dirty glances.

But none of that mattered when Paul turned back to her with a bright smile.

" Ready?" he asked

" always." She replied

As they left the building, Bella quickly turned giving her old high school Barbies a smile and a wave.

They weren't worth her time.

"ohh my gosh this is great! Did you make this?" Paul asked between bites of his chicken burrito. They were sitting in a gazebo in the back of the building. It was lit with fairy lights and lanterns.

" yes, I had some leftover chicken and I marinaded it in lime juice and salt with a dash of pepper. Then I made some cilantro and mixed it with the rice and butter. Wrap it up in a Tortilla and there ya go." She shrugged.

Paul took another bite and said "You know this is good. Do you like to cook?"

" I cook for my dad and Billy. I had to learn at a young age."

Paul shook his head and said "That's not what I asked you baby. I asked if you liked to cook."

Bella's eyes widened at Paul's use of the word baby. Was it an accident? Had he meant to say that? He said it with such love and yet an authority that made her clench her thighs together.

" um, I do like to cook. I like the look of happiness on people's faces."

" Have you ever thought about being a chef? Cause this is really good baby, I mean what would you do if you had the opportunity to be a chef? Or go to culinary school? Would you take it?"

" I never thought to go that route. I was ready to sign up for community college and maybe take a librarian job… but being a chef sounds exciting too."

" Listen to ya helwa, you do whatever makes you happy. I'll support you in whatever you want to do."

Bella felt emotional at his words.

" I appreciate that. If I wanted to be a chef. Where would I even start?"

Paul smiled excitedly.

" my uncle is a chef. He works in the kitchen. He's a five-star chef, he's traveled all over the world and has been on cooking shows and whatnot. Anyway, he's looking for Someone to take his place here at the diner so that he and my aunt can open a second location in Seattle. Maybe I can put in a good word for you? You know with me being their nephew and the general manager slash waiter. I'd say my word carries some weight. What do you think baby? You want to check it out?"

" I do Paul. I think that would help me out a lot. But can I ask you something?"

" what's up?"

"…. You keep calling me baby… why?"

Paul shrugged.

" it seemed like an intimate name that I get to call you. I mean how many of your other friends call you baby?" he asked " none."

" do you want me to stop?" he asked her.

" no. I.. I like it."

Paul's eyes flashed yellow before they went back to their normal color.

" Does your wolf like calling me that?" she asked.

" he does. He likes the thought that he can call you something that no one else can."

Bella closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Reaching for Paul with her eyes closed.

" I broke up with Edward today. I called on the vampire police to get him. The Cullens will be gone by tomorrow. Two of them poisoned my dad and that's why he's in the coma. Edward found out and was just going to let him die. They were going to kidnap me. To protect myself and my family, I made a deal with the Volturi. The state of Washington is my permanent home. I am not allowed to leave. Billy signed the contract. As long as I stay here, the Volturi will make sure all vampires know to stay away from Washington. And if they do come here they will be killed by the pack. I said all that to say that I like you Paul and I have been trying to keep myself from trying not to fall in love with you but .. I just can't help it. You have been nothing but kind, caring, and honest and you treat me like a person and not a broken doll. I don't know what to do or what to say. I feel like a common whore if I move on too fast. I don't want to be in another toxic and co-dependent relationship. I want to live a healthy and happy life. Not one full of looking over my shoulder every day."

With her eyes still closed. Bella heard Paul say "One, you could never be nor have you ever be a whore. Two, I need you to open your eyes when I say this to you."

When she did Paul was looking at her with bright turquoise eyes.

" you caught my eye a long time ago. At first, I wasn't so sure about you or what I wanted to do about you. but now, you've changed, grown in fact. I have seen a fire in you that wasn't quite there before. I like it. I think I'll l take a chance on you, the probabilities are endless. But there is a problem if we go forward with this ya helwa. The curse of being a shapeshifter comes with the horrible reality of imprinting. A false love, a false connection that our wolf creates with a woman, not of our choosing. I cannot control this and I don't want to put you through that. So maybe we shouldn't do this before we both get-"

Bella didn't allow Paul to finish.

Imprinting could go screw itself. She wasn't going to allow a good thing to escape her. Even at the cost of her heart being broken.

For once she was going to be selfish for herself.

So, she kissed him.

Chapter Text

Chapter 11: (sweet tea )and (Be my summer )-snoh Aalegra

Bella's timeline

- Last week of July- wedding/Charlie's heart attack

August- Bella sits by Charlie's bedside for five weeks. And the Cullens have been kicked out of forks.

In this chapter, we are now in October. Bella's birthday has passed and she is now 19.

Charlie has been in a coma for three months.

Paul and Bella began dating in the last week of August. So far a total of two months.

Ya helwa = my beautiful….

"Oh, don't you want me baby!don't you want me baaack!" embry bellowed as he swept the floor.

Bella couldn't help but laugh as she wiped the counters down and began to clean the fridge.

It was now October and they were at their father's house cleaning from top to bottom. Ever since they moved her father to the reservation slowly but surely he began to get better.

First, it was a small movement of his toes and fingers. And now it was a high frequency of Brain activity.

They didn't know when he would fully wake but some movement was better than none.

A crash was heard from upstairs distracting her from her cleaning.

" Quil! Don't break anything." She shouted from downstairs

" I'm not! I was killing a spider!" he shouted back.

Bella rolled her eyes.

Quil, embry, and herself had become the new three musketeers. They did almost everything together and they were always by her side. It was nice to have a cousin and brother that cared. That was something she had yearned for growing up. Being an only child was not fun.

The past month had been full of many changes. First, she applied for culinary school and got in of course. Next, after Paul talked to his uncle, the older grumpy man demanded she cook something. so, she made seared Scallops and Baby Spinach with Spiced Pomegranate Glaze. Paul's uncle Kareem loved it. loved it so much that he wanted to put it on the dinner menu and take her on as his apprentice. The past few weeks had been grueling. Mr. Kareem had her studying and tasting for hours. There were a few recipes she just couldn't get right and needed his help. Not to mention when the disco café became super busy, sometimes it was overwhelming. It was the only place right outside of Forks that stayed open late. Then another change in her life was Bella's new form of exercise. she began to take runs in the mornings and then take an exercise dance class three days out of the week. At first, she was afraid that she would fall on her face, but she was surprisingly good at it and it made her feel good.

And the last new change in her life? Well, that would be Paul. They hadn't exactly put a label on what they were, but they both agreed that their new relationship was mutual and exclusive. And unlike Edward, Paul had no problems with public displays of affection. It wasn't anything disrespectful or heavy. Just small gestures. A kiss on the cheek in passing or a squeeze of his hand on hers when they were shutting down for the night. It was the small things that mattered to them. They had yet to tell anyone, but they would eventually. For now, it was something new and fragile and they didn't want to ruin it with other people's opinions.

The sound of her cell phone ringing caught her attention.

"Hello?" she answered without looking at the caller's I.D

"Isabella Swan! I have been calling you for weeks! How dare you ignore me!" her mother's irritated voice sounded through the phone.

Immediately all movement in the house stopped. Quil and Embry coming to her side.

" Hello Mom, I haven't talked to you in weeks because I've been busy. There's been a lot going on."

Bella sighed and ran her fingers through her hair. A week after the

Cullens leave, she and her mother get into a big argument about Renee's feelings regarding Bella's life choices. Renee felt Bella was ruining her life by calling off the wedding. Bella quickly told her mother that it was her life and she was going to do what was best for herself. Renee didn't like it and quickly left forks, swearing to never return.

"Nothing could be that important to where you can't call your own mother Bella." Renee chastised.

"I emailed you, and I texted you. I told you about my new job and culinary school. Why is that not enough for you?"

"what man is going to want a maid for a wife Bella? That's all you are learning. Being a chef and someone else slave is not a job! It's not a career. You need to get Edward back! You're worthless without him!" Renee yelled.

Bella shook her head. She opened her mouth to say something but quickly closed it. she needed to think about her words carefully. That's something she was learning from Paul. She couldn't just say whatever she wanted, words had power. They held life and death. She knew that from experience.

"Look, Mom, I love you. you did the best you knew to do when you were trying to raise me. but now, it's time for me to live my own life. If you can't be happy for me, or accept my choices then I don't think we should talk anymore. I love you mom."

And then she hung up.

Not even her mother could ruin the peaceful and adventurous journey she was going to take.

…

Paul pov:

Seattle Washington.

A cheering crowd reached Paul's sensitive ears as he put in his mouthguard. He was in his dressing room with his cousin and training team. They were getting ready for another fight, one that he would surely win.

He was trying to focus on his punches, but this time, he just couldn't focus.

Bella's brown eyes kept flashing through his mind.

They hadn't gotten to spend any quality time for the past two weeks. With both of them being so busy. Both of them had their duties at the café, and then his responsibilities with the pack plus training for his fights and Bella taking her culinary courses.

It was hard to find time with just the two of them. She was often being body guarded by Quil or embry and if not one of them, then old Quil or Chief black was always by her side.

It was as if they were afraid, to leave her alone.

Not to mention, the increase in patrols and pack gatherings that Bella wasn't invited to. He had to wonder if Emily had a hand in that. Bella wasn't an imprint, nor was she a member of the pack, so why would she be invited to their pack-only events? At least that was probably some of the elders and pack's thinking. Even though Bella had relatives that were native, she wasn't native therefore she didn't get certain privileges. But none of that mattered to Paul. The more time he spent with her the more he realized, he was falling in love with Bella Swan and falling hard.

But was he ready for that? Could he do that? Admit that he loved her?

He wanted to but.. the problem with imprinting still bothered him. So far almost everyone in the pack had imprinted. Sam, Jared, Quill, and Leah had all imprinted. All of them are forced and romantic. Paul hated it. There had to be a way around it. A way to prevent it. He couldn't bear to break Bella's heart that way. And they were already risking it by being together knowing imprinting could happen at any second.

A smack upside the head made Paul growl and snap out of his trance.

He looked up to see his cousin Asif, sneering at him in annoyance.

" rakaza! Alhusul ealaa rasik fi luebat alsabii!" focus get your head in the game boy! Asif told him in Arabic.

"Naeam 'ana 'aelamu! 'ana 'uhawil." Yes, I know. I'm trying. Paul told him.

Asif smiled and playfully punched him in the shoulder. Asif was like his brother. His aunt Asif's mother and Paul's mother were sisters.

When the two women turned 19 they escaped from the patriarchal harshness of Yemen and ran to America. As soon as their mothers met the right men and had children, the two cousins were joined at the hip.

Paul trusted Asif with his life.

" what has you distracted? Whatever it is, you need to let it go." Asif told him.

" I know."

Before Asif could dig anymore a knock on the door was heard and one of his team members answered.

" Hamza! You're on in five!"

Paul felt his wolf growl. His wolf loved getting in the ring. it was like a release for them, the run of adrenaline and endorphins.

Paul cracked his neck and tapped his gloves together.

"let's pray." He told his team.

With that said, they bowed their heads.

Tonight would be a victory .

Bella sat next to Paul's aunt and uncle as the fight began. She wore a knee-high black cocktail dress that hugged her figure.

The fight was intense and held her attention. She was leaning on her elbows, and following any move Paul made.

He looked drop-dead gorgeous. The boxing shorts he wore were red, white, and black. Those were the colors of the Yemen flag and Paul of course wanted to honor that. His robe, however, was black with a silver wolf on the back. That was a symbol of his native heritage.

Bella cheered when he struck his opponent. She could tell Paul was holding back, if he put all his energy into it, he could kill the guy. But Paul's movements were fast and precise, his opponent had no idea what was coming next.

"yes! There we go, nephew! That's how we roll!" Kareem shouted.

Paul's aunt Amina turned to her and said "You know young flower, if Paul wins this fight there's a high chance he will go to the pros!

There is a very famous manager here tonight, he has been watching Paul for a few years. Paul started in the amateurs when he was sixteen after my sister died. That's four years of hard work and endless nights at the gym. And now at the age of twenty, he might be the youngest person selected for the pros!"

Bella was surprised by Amina's explanation. She hadn't realized how serious this was to Paul. She knew it was something he liked and something he did, but to go to the pros? That meant he wanted this as a career.

Bella would cheer him on the whole way through.

Paul smiled with a swollen cheek that would be gone in a few minutes as the announcer held up his hand and claimed him the winner.

"And the winner! Of the golden gloves is Paul one punch Hamza !"

The crowd went wild and as he looked out into the crowd, Paul felt his heart skip a beat.

Staring up at him with beautiful brown eyes and a black cocktail dress was Bella. She came to his match! They had been so busy lately that she hadn't been able to make it to any of his matches. But this time she showed up!

Paul felt pride surge through him.

"Hey! Hamza! Someone wants to talk to you!" Asif shouted.

When Paul turned around, the manager of some of the best boxers in the world stood before him.

The door of new opportunities was about to open.

Bella and Paul were cuddled on the Seattle bench as they overlooked the pier.

"you were amazing out there Paul!" she told him.

Paul smiled and kissed her forehead.

"I was just so happy to see you. my folks didn't give you too many problems did they?" he asked.

"oh no! I love your aunt and uncle! I was going to drive my truck but they convinced me to ride with them. They are very caring. Your uncle is a tough cookie. He doesn't let up does he?"

Paul laughed.

"no. not at all. When he sees someone with potential he will do everything to help you get to the top."

The couple fell into silence before Paul admitted how he was feeling. "so… I've been wanting to tell you something for a while but I don't know how because it's risky."

"shoot," Bella told him, as she tucked herself into his side. The cold October wind chilled her body and yet he was the perfect heater.

Paul sighed and looked up at the Seattle night sky. He then looked down at Bella, his turquoise eyes beaming as he looked at her.

"I… am hopelessly and exceptionally in love with you Bella Marie Swan. And I can only hope that you are in love with me too." He admitted.

Paul held his breath as Bella looked up at him. Her wide brown eyes were teary-eyed and full of surprise.

"Paul… I've been wanting to tell you the same thing but I thought it might be too soon. I am so glad you said something first. I am recklessly and hopelessly in love with you as well."

Paul felt relief and joy filled him at her words. However, that hope soon deflated and frustration filled its place.

"We have to talk about imprinting." He sighed.

"what about it?" she asked, " oh… oh no… did you imprint Paul?"

"no! No baby, I didn't. and I don't want to. But we have to face reality. Any woman who comes my way could be my imprint and I don't want to lose you. I think we are really good together."

"so what do you suggest we do?" she asked.

"well,..the tribe has a library, that's specially reserved for the alpha and the elders. Pack members can enter with permission from either of them but..you have to give them detailed reasons why you want to go into the library and what books you are looking at. It's very secretive and high profile. I, however,… I want to sneak in there and see what we can find. There has to be another wolf in history who didn't want to imprint or a wolf who broke an imprint. Something, I won't lay down and have my choices taken from us." Bella smiled at Paul, cupping his face in her hands. "well then Hamza, let's do some breaking and entering."

Paul laughed.

"You gonna get us caught."

"I'm a cop's daughter Paul. I know how to get around the law."

"Well then my little lawbreaker show me the way."

Chapter Text

Chapter :change of power

A/N: trauma, anxiety, panic, and flashbacks will be in this chapter!

For the next few weeks, Paul and Bella spent late nights in the tribe's library.

So far they hadn't found anything that would help them but spending quality time was important.

They had read countless journals of wolves that had imprinted and accepted but none that rejected it.

" what if we don't find anything, Paul? I mean what if there hasn't been a wolf that rejected his imprint?" Bella asked as she made her fears known.

Paul smiled at her. Confidence blazing in his eyes.

" you have to have faith babe. Do you think any wolves that did reject their imprint would be on the front page and center of the tribal archives? That would ruin everything the tribe has ever taught us. We are going to make it through this."

With that said the duo went back to their research.

Hope is brewing in their hearts for some kind of miracle.

The next day, as she got into her truck. Bella waved goodbye to her coworkers and proceeded to drive back to Billy's however before she could get out of the parking lot, Bella's phone rang.

It was Sam.

" hey, Sam what's up?"

"hey, Bella. How are you?"

" exhausted. How are you?"

" feeling the same. So I was calling to invite you to the pack bonfire. It's kind of a celebration of some of our newer imprints and I've been feeling like a jerk lately. I want you to know Bella that you are pack and I don't want you to feel left out or as if we don't care. I know you aren't close to most of the pack but you're Embry's sister and Quils cousin. At the end of the day, your family and I want you to remember that."

Bella felt a wave of acceptance wash over her as Sam talked. She had always felt like the odd one out no matter where she was. But especially amongst the supernatural.

" I appreciate that Sam. It means a lot to me. soo, I guess the cats out of the bag about me being related to Embry and Quil huh."

Sam chuckled. " you know nothing can be hidden from the pack bells. for the most part."

A brown pair of eyes flashed through Bella's mind when Sam called her by her nickname.

"Have you heard from him?" she asked quietly.

"no. no one has. We can't even feel him in the pack's mind." Sam said "And how are you holding up? is the pack ok? I mean. I know you all are close. You kinda have to be, I know his leaving has had to affect all of you."

Sam sighed wearily.

"it… it hurts. It hurts a lot, Bella. He left us when we needed him most. I mean I know he was upset and all and I would have given him a few days to sort through his feelings. But, to run out on us, his brothers and sister. His own father. The pack feels somewhat betrayed. To be honest, I was struggling for a while, but… one of the guys, Paul. I don't know if you remember him or not but he's stepped up to the plate. I mean he's done a full 360 Bella. He used to be so short-tempered and hard to get along with when he first phased, but now. He's practically my second in command. He's taken charge of a lot of the things Jacob was supposed to do. I want to make it official tonight. You know I think this the most I have said to you, Bella." Sam laughed.

" well, anytime we saw each other it was always during high-stress situations. In this case, we're not under any pressure. I think making Paul your second would be a great idea, Sam. I mean if you trust him and all. Let's not worry about Jacob, I think he will come home when he's ready, and I think a good butt-kicking is needed. I also think showing him that we are still here for him will ease the transition. I mean he's still pack after all despite his mistakes. Everyone deserves a second chance. I mean look at me for example. Just a suggestion. "

" I will consider your advice. Please meet us at First Beach tomorrow at 5:30."

"Will do Sam."

…

Sam stared at the phone even though Bella had hung up ten minutes ago.

He hadn't expected to go into deep conversation with her. And yet for the first time in a long time, he felt heard. It was different from giving commands and having people following them. The elders tended to bark orders at him versus hearing what he had to say but Bella listened.

A shred of guilt hit him as he thought about the girl. His wolf saw her as a member of the pack. Ever since they saw her in the woods that day, his wolf felt a certain pull to her. A pull that he could no longer ignore.

"Sam! Are you off the phone?" a feminine voice shouted. Sam winched at the sound of his imprint's voice. She had been louder than normal recently. Did she think he wasn't paying attention to her? Was she craving more attention? His wolf growled at the thought of him possibly neglecting his imprint and Sam shivered.

"Yes honey, I am off the phone. do you need anything?"

"Well, two things. One can you and Seth take these tables out to the beach for tomorrow night and two, who was that on the phone?"

"I have no problem taking the tables out to the beach and I think you already know who that was on the phone. I told you our plan, Emily."

" yes, the imprint celebration and your announcement to make Paul you're second." Emily clarified.

" and Bella's surprise birthday party Em. We want her to feel welcomed and appreciated."

Emily made a disgruntled face.

"but Sam…"

"no. Emily. I understand your feelings toward Bella, but she is a part of the pack and has helped us out a lot around here. She's taken a lot of the worry off our shoulders by living with the chief and helping take care of him. not to mention the small things she does that she thinks we don't know about. Look I am not saying she's perfect or that she hasn't made some mistakes but we all have and I think we should give her a second chance."

"but she could have married Edward and moved on!" Emily argued.

"but why is that your problem Em? Why does it bother you so much, honey?"

Emily sighed.

"I guess I was a tad jealous. She did all this to hurt all our friends just to turn around and give it all up. she had a good life with Edward and could have had it all. We all could have moved on and we could have been happy."

"But we are happy honey. And it seems like Bella is doing well for herself, plus she trusted us enough to move Charlie onto the reservation for his medical treatment. Let's just give her some time."

With that said Sam kissed Emily on the forehead and walked out the backdoor.

Thankfully Seth was already in the backyard gathering the tables.

"hey Seth, I'll take one of those."

"Okey dokey."

As the duo walked down to the beach, Seth broke the silence.

"I'm sorry, I couldn't help but hear half of Emily's conversation. Um… is everything ok? does she not like Bella? It almost seems as if she hates her."

"I wouldn't say hate, but she is not too happy. I just don't think Emily is used to not having my full attention. We will work on it. you just stay focused on school. Everything will be ok."

Seth nodded placing all of his trust in his alpha.

…

Sam smiled as he looked around the beach.

The whole pack and imprints not including Paul and Leah were gathered on the beach, the food had been cooked and sat out, the bonfire was lit and everyone was ready to party.

The only person missing was Bella.

They had about ten minutes left before she arrived.

"Samuel."

Sam turned to see Lincoln Cameron and Chief black approaching him.

"elder Cameron, chief black." He greeted.

"you and your imprint have done a fantastic job putting this together. I am told that you want to make Shifter Lahote your second in command. Is that wise?"

Sam glanced at chief black who was oddly quiet and seemed a bit put out.

"I am doing what is best for my pack," Sam told them with authority.

Before Elder Cameron can argue whispers of Bella's arrival hit Sam's ears.

"excuse me, it seems that Bella has arrived. Hey everybody hide!" he ordered.

Bella yawned as she made her way down to the beach. She had put in a long day at work but it was worth it. however, excitement ran through her as she thought about the bonfire. She was excited to see everybody and for once be able to relax without looking over her shoulder.

The pathway to the beach was lit with tiki lamps and seemed oddly quiet.

"Hello?" she called out as she took her shoes off and allowed her feet to sink into the cold sand.

Everything was silent until…

"SURPRISE! HAPPY LATE BIRTHDAY!"

Bella gasped as her vision filled with members of the pack and some of the elders.

However, Bella's reaction wasn't one of positivity and joy. It was one of fear.

And then she began to panic. Flashbacks of golden eyes quickly turning black as killer instincts swarmed around her.

In her haze of fear, a burning pain shot up her arm starting from her wrist.

Bella screamed.

Sam watched in horror as Bella began to hyperventilate, her face began to turn blue as she grabbed her wrist, practically clawing at it. a scream so blood curling, it made him want to howl.

Immediately his instincts took over, as he, Embry, Quil, and Sue rushed towards her.

Sam caught her before she fell to the ground and laid her on the ground as her screams began to get louder.

"Her heartbeat is way too high!" Embry said in somewhat panic as he grabbed his sister's free hand.

Sue hovered over her, trying to calm her down but none of her medical tactics were working.

"Someone get me some water! We might have to sedate her-"

Before Sue could finish, A hulking figure burst through the woods . It was a wolf.

Sam didn't get time to order Paul to stand down before the grey and silver wolf became a man with glowing yellow eyes.

Naked as the day he was born, Paul growled and snatched Bella from the ground, forcing her onto her feet.

"ya helwa! You have to breathe! Breath with me Isabella." He commanded strongly and yet softly. Paul then demonstrated how to breathe slowly and effectively.

Sam watched in awe, as Bella took a gulping breath of air, and let out a sob.

Paul was quick to pull her to his bare chest, his hands rubbing calm circles up and down her arms.

"That's it ya helwa, just breathe. No one here is going to hurt you."

"We need to get her to a hospital." Elder Sue announced.

Paul shook his head.

" Bella can decide that for herself. For now, she just needs to be calmed down." He said from over her head.

Sam looked on in shock. He hadn't expected Paul to take charge like this.

A small whimper from Bella broke his focus back to her.

"what is it ya helwa? Does something hurt?" Paul asked.

Bella nodded still unable to speak.

Paul grabbed the arm she was holding and growled.

On her arm was a deep vampire bite.

"what the heck is that?!" Jared growled. " how is she not a cold one?"

All at once everyone began to talk and ask questions. However, Paul and Sam silenced them.

"take a walk with me ya helwa. I think you need a little break." Paul suggested. "Sam, why don't you all continue with the bonfire? We will, be back in a few minutes."

Bella kept her eyes closed as Paul sat her on his kitchen counter. Soft prayers from his warm baritone voice filled her ears.

"baby? Can you open your eyes for me?" he asked.

When she did, Paul was wearing a gray t-shirt and black sweatpants. When had he changed clothes?

"im-"

Paul shook his head.

"if an apology is going to come out of your mouth then I don't want to hear it. you did nothing wrong."

"but I ruin the party." She cried.

"a party you didn't know was happening. You were surprised. But can you tell me what happened? Do you know why you panicked?"

"I can but I want to tell the whole pack just so I don't have to repeat it. I mean you guys threw me a late birthday party."

Paul cupped Bella's face and kissed her forehead.

" you don't always have to be the strong one ya helwa. Sometimes, I can be strong for you."

"thank you, Paul." She whispered.

"always baby."

When Bella and Paul returned she was given hugs and looks of concern from members of the pack and the elders. As soon as Sam made sure she was ok, Bella told her story. Embry and Quil made sure to stand by her side, as Paul stepped into the shadows, wanting to be invisible.

"Well, first I just want to say thank you so much for throwing me a party. I appreciate it. however, surprise parties are kind of… sensitive for me. last year on my eighteenth birthday, the Cullens threw me a surprise party even though I asked them not to. I specifically told them no party and no gifts. But… they didn't listen. I think they missed being human and they wanted to live vicariously through me. However, this didn't work, I mean they bought this ugly cake that had to be at least five hundred dollars and a bunch of wasted food. All of it they expected me to eat. Which was ridiculous. Anyway, they gave me gifts that I didn't want. As I was opening one, I received a paper cut. And what do you get with blood and vampires? A horrible mess.

Everyone's eyes turned black and one of them lunged at me. Edward's dumb butt pushed me into a glass table which cut my arm, making all of their blood lust worse. Dr. Cullen stitched me up and sent me home. Two days later, they all left without so much as a goodbye. I guess I didn't realize how bad that day affected me. I mean you all threw me a party out of good intentions. The Cullens had selfish reasons. If you all don't mind, I would like to move on and get this party started."

Sam smiled and clapped his hands together.

"welp! You heard the women! Let's get this party started!"

"oh, this Hot dog is great!" Seth moaned as he sat at Bella's feet. Quil was on her right and Embry was on her left. Both their imprints are tucked into their sides. Naveah, Quil's imprint was Emily's sister and just adored Quil. Embry's imprint Chloe seemed just as adoring.

And while both women seemed nice, Bella couldn't help but cringe. Imprinting was truly the worst.

Her eyes found Paul's bright turquoise ones, as he leaned under a tree. He gave her a small smile before he continued his observations.

"um.. Bella is it?" an unfamiliar woman asked as she approached her.

"hi! Yes, it's Bella. And you are?"

"My name is Kim Jared's…"

Kim hesitated before Bella finished the sentence for her.

"imprint."

"yes! Sorry, I didn't know if you knew or not."

"I do, why don't you join us. have you had any cake yet?" Bella asked.

"I did, and did you make those brownies?" Kim asked.

"I did. They-"

"brownies!" Quil and Embry said at the same time. " B, you didn't tell us you brought brownies!"

"yeah, they're at the table." Bella pointed out.

Immediately Embry and Quil were up and running off to the dessert table. Naveah and Chloe laughed as the two men scrambled away.

"Man, Bella I have never seen two guys so infatuated with a person. If the three of you weren't related, I would have thought you three were dating." Naveah joked.

Bella laughed and pretended to gag.

"yeah no thanks. Having them as my brother and cousin is more than enough," she laughed.

"you're related to embry and Quil?" Kim asked.

"yeah, Quil is my cousin and Embry is my brother." Bella clarified.

"I never knew that. It must be nice."

"it is! I grew up as an only child, so when Embry's mom met my dad, it worked out. and of course, Quil makes himself known wherever he goes."

The four girls let out a laugh before Kim asked a question.

" he Bella you should come to our girl talk Wednesdays."

"um.. what is that?" Bella asked

"Well, it's when all the girls of the pack get together. we talk have breakfast and just have a good time."

" Yeah, Bella you should come! We would love to have you!" Chloe cheered.

" I appreciate the invite. I would love to attend. Just let me check my work schedule. "

" Where do you work?" naveah asked.

" I'm working to be a chef at a restaurant at the moment. "

" wow! That's amazing. I wish I had a cool job like that!" Kim gushed. Before Bella could reply, a sharp whistle caught their attention.

Everyone's attention was focused on Sam who stood in front of them facing them all.

There was an air of authority and power oozing from him as he looked amongst the group.

"Tonight we celebrate many things. Our dear pack sisters' birthday." He gestured towards Bella.

Many of the pack applauded and smiled, while some grimaced uncomfortably.

Once the applause died down, Sam spoke again.

"We would also like to introduce our other new pack sisters. The imprints of Embry and Quil."

This time the applause was even louder and there were smiles all around.

Once again Sam waited for silence before he spoke again.

" and finally we would like to celebrate, the change in leadership roles. This pack member has stepped up to the plate these last couple of months and I think is more than worthy of this position. They have taken up extra patrols, helped out in the community more than necessary, and overall have improved in their self-control. Everyone I would like to introduce the new beta of the pack Paul lahote.

Gasps were heard all around as Paul emerged from the shadows.

His eyes were still brightly yellow when he made his way to Sam. Paul was wearing silver body paint and a white loin cloth.

It was then Paul raised his hands and craned his neck to the side.

Sam rumbled at his approach. It was then the elders approached behind Sam, chief black in between them. All of them were in ceremonial clothing.

" Do you Paul lahote, take it upon yourself to be second in command of your pack?" chief black questioned.

" I will."

"And do you take it upon yourself to serve and support your alpha when he needs you?"

" I will"

" do you take it upon yourself to lead your pack brothers and sisters at all cost?"

" I will."

" Very well. Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you your new beta." Chief black announced.

Once again a brief applause and a couple of howls were heard. The pack gathered around Paul to congratulate him and fulfill their lupine instincts to touch. It was then Sam and Paul faxed each other.

Sam holding out a hand for Paul to take. And when Paul grabbed it he grunted, a power shift was taking place. Right before her eyes Paul's muscles became bigger than what they were and his height grew before her eyes. Even his hair became a little longer.

" I think now is a good time to hear the history of our ancestors. " chief black announced.

Immediately everyone gathered around the bonfire ready to hear the stories they heard a thousand times.

Bella however fell asleep at the deep voice of chief black. Her dreams are full of wolves and strange bite marks.

Chapter Text

An Unwanted Solution and a Very Big Problem

"Paul! I think I found something!" Bella said excitedly as she lifted her head from her pile of books.

" what is it, honey?" Paul asked her.

" I found a really old letter from one of the original wolves. It's written in Quileute so you'll have to translate. "

Paul took the torn withered letter from her hands and began to read aloud.

" May 15th 1880. To whom may have found my letter I pray that you will use this for good and not for harm. Imprinting is the bane of my existence. A cruel curse put on my people for disobedience and yet our elders see it as a blessing. I see it not so. My love and I are starcrossed lovers in the night. Hiding from a future that hunts us down. I do not wish to imprint and I will find a way out."

" Is that all it says!?" Bella asked.

" yes, but there has to be more. Quick, look for the other page."

The couple quickly scrambled to find it and after thirty minutes of looking Paul cheered.

" yes! I found the other letter. June 1885. To whom may have found this letter friend or foe. My search was not In vain, but the love that intertwined my chosen and I did not last. The imprint came too soon. Held me within its clutches before I could mark my teeth into my love's skin. I am doomed but the future generations do not have to be. Marking is the only way to prevent an imprint .it must be done during intercourse in the connection of a soul covenant. Follow the wolf, it knows all. I hope you find the right path before it's too late. Your elder Hezekiah black."

Paul and Bella looked at each other confusion on their faces.

" Marking? Like… peeing on something?" Bella clarified.

" I don't know… but just from his short letters it seems having sex during a soul covenant and biting is what I'm getting."

" But… he wasn't able to do it. He found out too late." Bella said.

"Maybe we should talk to Old Quil? I don't think he'd judge us for this. Besides the Bible says to seek wise counsel. What do you think? "

" I think we can trust Uncle Quil… I would hope so anyway."

" let's go talk to him." Paul urged. " but it's three in the morning. " Bella said

Paul sighed.

" I feel like my spirit is telling us to go Bella. I've been anxious for a while ever since we became a couple. It's like…. It's like I can feel my imprint getting closer…" he admitted.

Bella felt anger ignite in her veins. How was this possible? For someone's will to be taken in one second just by looking into the eyes of another. To be thrown into a world of chaos without so much of a choice. For a couple to be together one day and completely out of love the next.

"I'm not letting you go, Paul. Of us. We will fight this until the end. "

With that said, the couple made their way to the Ateara house in desperation.

…

Old Quil was on the porch when they arrived. A pipe in his mouth, looking out into the forest.

Without looking up he spoke.

"The almighty has already spoken to me. we will need to take a trip. Let us go." He spoke cryptically.

Three hours later the group found themselves in the mountains of Washington. Old Quil gestured them to sit on an old log, as he lit a fire.

Bella shivered as she huddled closer to Paul. the whole drive and hike up the mountain, Old Quil had been quiet. Refusing to speak.

Old Quil was also a bit more agile than they thought. He led them up the mountain without so much sweat.

"Since our people began to shift-"He began, making Bella jump as his voice echoed off the cave. " we have always imprinted. Souls connect when one's eyes connect with their imprintee. A shapeshifter can imprint anytime during their life, regardless of previous personal feelings, and there are four stages to it for all pairings. First, it starts with the imprint and the imprintee having to accept the bond. If they don't both will be in immense pain. Once they accept, they move on to being a friend, then it can move to a siblings-like bond, and then romance. Being a romantic pair is inevitable. It will either come in stages or as most imprints do, they skip all the friendship and siblinglike bonds and go straight into romance. At the end of the day, the wolf is bound to the needs of his or her imprint. The bond is unbreakable."

Bella and Paul looked at each other and grimaced.

"However…" Old Quil spoke, "There was one wolf and only one in our histories who almost prevented his imprint. Hezekiah black, Billy Black great, great, great, great grandfather. Hezekiah had fallen in love with a woman and kept it secret. She was a white woman, and back then they would have both been killed for being together. Therefore they stayed under the radar. As time went on, Hezekiah saw his brethren begin to shift and imprint. While he didn't mind shifting, imprinting would be a problem. Instead of that, he decided, he and his lover would run away and start their lives without issue. But, that meant he had to avoid imprinting. ignoring all the women in the tribe, would not be possible, so he needed further guidance. After years of prayer, research, and consulting his wolf, Hezekiah found an answer. Marking. This forbidden practice is when a married couple during intercourse, after the exchanging of fluids, emotions, hormones, and a spiritual tie, the male shifter will bite his chosen mate on a body part of her choosing. Unfortunately, this is all we ever found out about Hezekiah, because just a few months after his imprint, he took his own life. And his imprintee did the same. Apparently when one imprint dies, the other is too miserable to live on. "

"I've been having dreams of being bitten…" Bella said quietly.

"that does not surprise me. many things haven't surprised me recently. But I do need to know. How serious are the two of you? Is this just a fling? Or a way for Paul to get out of imprinting.." he asked seriously.

Paul growled lowly.

"No. this is not a fling. We… are in love. I love her with all I have."

"And I love him too," Bella confirmed.

Old Quil sighed.

"Very well. But I need to hear your reasons. The creator only gave me certain information. I am assuming you two were looking into a way to prevent Paul from imprinting?"

"yes," they answered in unison.

Old Quil ran his hand through his hair, looking at Bella with serious and concerned eyes. this time she wasn't looking into the face of a concerned elder, but a concerned uncle.

"little niece. Are you sure you want to do this? I need you to understand. There are consequences for your actions. This is a forbidden practice and we have no idea how it will affect you. and not to mention, that you have to marry Paul first. You have to take his last name. I know you say you're in love but… to marry under pressure like this? It's unfair to you and him. it might as well be an arranged marriage."

" I won't allow her to marry me that way." Paul defended.

"allow?" Bella questioned as she looked at Paul in offense.

"That's not what I meant, I mean… he has a point! You could… we could… move on from this.. pretend it never happened."

Bella stood anger running through her veins.

"Are you saying after everything we've been through! You're just willing to give up!" she yelled.

"I don't want you forced to do anything, Bella! You deserve to live a good life! Not forced to be married because I'm a supernatural being!" he yelled back.

"And what if that's what I choose… what if I choose you, Paul?" she asked softly.

" you know I wouldn't intentionally take your choices away Bella."

"then let me help you.." she pleaded.

Paul closed his eyes. gently pulling Bella into his arms.

"It wasn't supposed to be like this ya helo. I was supposed to propose to you down on one knee."

Bella leaned into him and snorted.

"When have I ever cared for stuff like that Paul? Have I ever made you feel as if I needed anything fancy?"

"It's not about fancy yahelo. It's about… us, doing things right."

"then do right by me now…" Bella argued.

Paul looked over at old Quil.

"Are you two sure about this?"

Paul looked at Bella with serious eyes.

"I love you. but I do not want us to look up years later and regret this. I don't want you to think you missed out on life because you were supernaturally bound to me."

"And I love you, but I don't want you to think that I am doing this because I have to. I know you would never force me. I know that you would let me walk away from this if I said the words but… I can't walk away from you. our relationship means too much to me, and us. So let's just do this for us no plan B's no backup plans.."

Paul kissed Bella passionately before they both looked up at Old Quil.

"well… I believe I have my answers. I can have the papers ready for you to sign tomorrow. But I need you to understand the ramifications. If any of the other elders were to find out. Paul, you could be stripped of your rank as beta, and Bella you could be banned from the reservation."

"We understand…" Paul assured him.

"very well. We will meet tomorrow in this very cave.."

The next day Paul lay in his bed looking at the ceiling. It was 4 in the afternoon and he had done everything he needed to. He went on patrol three times, taking three shifts from some of his pack mates so that could have a day off. He then worked a double at the diner and then went to see his cousin training his butt off and here he was.

Not wanting to risk seeing his possible imprint, Paul was hiding. He and Bella were supposed to meet old Quil in the mountains at eight. Being honest with himself, he was terrified.

Terrified of losing Bella.

Terrified of imprinting.

Terrified of what his future looked like.

In his hands, was a simple gold band. It wasn't fancy or covered diamonds, but it meant the world to him.

It was his mother's. he believed his mother would have loved Bella. Absolutely adored her.

The sound of a ringtone, made him look over to his nightstand.

Paul sighed as he looked at the caller's I.D

It was his father.

Taking a deep breath, Paul checked his attitude and his tone. His father was a no-nonsense man and didn't have time for games or emotions.

"yes sir?" he questioned.

"What are you doing boy?"

"in bed, just finished my shift at the diner."

"Hmmm," his father grunted. "How is the pack? keeping your place? Making our name good?"

"yes sir. I was promoted to beta."

"beta? I thought that was black's position. Why was it handed down to you?"

"black abanded his post sir." His father grunted again. " don't shame our name boy."

"I won't sir," Paul assured.

" I am going to wire you some money to pay the bills. Are you keeping up with everything?"

"yes sir. I am. The bills are paid on time, the house is clean and I have not allowed anyone in." Paul said with a serious voice. Even though that last part was a lie.

"very well."

And with that said, his father hung up.

Paul stared at the phone with no emotion.

Ever since his mother died, his father had become a hard-colloused man. There was never any care in his voice anymore. He talked to Paul as if he was one of his subordinates and not his son.

Paul shook his head. He couldn't think about this now. He needed to focus on Bella.

He couldn't wait until 8, he needed to see her now.

…

" gin!" Bella shouted in false excitement.

She, Billy black, Connie black, Joy Ateara, and Wendell Uley were playing cards. And even with her nerves, she was still good at the game.

"well then miss swan, for a first-time player, id say you are kicking our old butts." Connie black laughed. She was Billy's youngest sister. The women made a mean pecan pie.

"I don't know Mrs black, I say it's beginners' luck. Can I get anybody anything?" she questioned.

"would you mind bringing me a slice of pie Bella?" Wendell asked. "of course Mr. Uley."

Bella sighed as she walked into the kitchen. Thursday nights were cards at the black house. Billy's partner wasn't feeling well so Bella stepped in. She didn't want to but she needed something to soothe her nerves for tonight.

The card game wasn't helping.

She had just cut the piece of pie when a knock on the door was heard.

"it's open!" she shouted.

"uh, hello? Who are you? where is my dad?"

When Bella turned around, she looked into the confused eyes of Rachel's black.

"Bella who was at the door, honey?"

Bella turned to see Billy rolling in.

His face paled when he saw who it was.

"Rachel?"

"dad! Hey! Im home!"

At the same time, the front door opened again.

And this time… it was Paul.

His pupils are blown wide and looks mortified.

Bella who standing in the doorway of the kitchen, followed Paul's terrified eyes to Rachel's back.

It was then she understood.

This was her.

Rachel black was Paul's imprint.

Paul was torn.

His mind, his very soul… torn.

He came here for Bella and yet… he found her.

This woman… he could feel her… he could feel the connection.

The want… the desire… he would be anything she needed. Anything she wanted.

He would burn the world if she asked him to.

And yet, Bella's brown eyes kept flashing through his mind. The ring burned in his pocket.

No! no! NOOO!

Bella sprung into action, as a growl so terrifying released itself from Paul's lips. She needed to distract him from Rachel.

"PAUL NO!" Bella screamed as she threw herself into his chest, yanking his face towards her.

"DO IT PAUL! DO IT NOW!" she screamed. " MARK ME!"

With heavy hands, Paul latched onto her. his hands clawing into her back. With one eye yellow and one eye turquoise, he sunk his teeth into her collarbone.

Bella screamed.

Old Quil looked on in terror as Paul crumbled at his feet with Bella in his arms.

" give me the papers! Hurry." He pleaded. Blood pooled from his mouth, as he internally fought his wolf. His wolf wanted to back to Rachel. To look into her eyes and take what was his.

But the man.

The man wanted Bella.

"Uncle Quil… hurry.." Bella groaned.

She was covered in blood, a giant bite mark on her collarbone. Her back looked like it had been torn into shreds.

With urgency, he held the marriage license and mirage certificate in front of them. Holding both their hands to guide their signature onto the paper.

"there. it's done. you two are officially married. But you did this backward, so I don't know if it will work. You're gonna have to consummate this. And consummate it now. Im going to go file this. I have a guy that knows a guy. I will also calm everyone down on the reservation. Something tells me that this wasn't a pretty occasion. Im sorry…"

With that said, old Quil rushed down the moment, praying the lord gave mercy at such a time as this.

…

"Paul.." Bella said hoarsely. Her eyes were bloodshot, her body racking with pain."we have to.."

"I know… I need you to take a deep breath. This is going to hurt. I am going to make this up to you Bella I swear."

"Paul hurry up… your eyes are turning yellow. Im going to lose you to the wolf! And hell run back to Rachel."

Paul screamed. His wolf was clawing him from the inside. He was doing everything he could to stay human.

He pushed past the pain, as adrenaline surged through his body. his wolf was going to come to the surface if he didn't do this.

With urgency, he spread his wife's legs and pushed himself inside. neither of them caring about the pain.

They just had to get through this.

They just had to…

Chapter Text

Chapter 14: I Can Explain

Old Quil sat before the pack and the other elders, putting a hand up for silence. They had been in an uproar for three days. That's how long Paul and Bella had been gone.

When Paul marked Bella, Billy, Rachel, and a few older tribe members had seen the whole thing. To make it worse, a few of the pack saw Paul carrying Bella's bloodied body. But they lost him in the chaos.

He allowed the drama to brew so that he could finalize his plans and paperwork. Everything was official now. Paul and Bella were married and marked. He just prayed that it worked. The creator had been quiet about that part. So, like everyone else, he had to wait to see them. However, he could do some damage control while he waited.

"Now that you have stopped talking. I would love to explain what happened three days ago."

He stopped waiting for someone to protest. When they didn't, he continued.

" I understand it looked like Paul attacked Bella, but I assure you he did not. The creator showed me what happened before I could make it here. Rachel black," he said, looking at the women. She was sitting in front, her father next to her, looking frustrated and scared.

" Has not been home in years. When the chief black saw Rachel, Paul had just happened to be nearby. He heard the chief's gasp of shock and arrived to check it out. It was then Paul discovered Rachel. Paul could only focus on a strange scent amid his chief. A scent that he had never smelt before, and when he did, his wolf saw it as a threat. Now, Rachel, I mean no offense to you, but you have been gone for a long time. When Billy saw you, his blood pressure spiked, and his heartbeat was erratic. Thus, Paul's wolf thought his chief was being attacked. He thought you were a threat and needed to take you out. Bella understood this: to save your life, she could stop Paul's wolf from killing you by using herself as a shield. She made sure Paul's wolf was focused on her as he attacked. Paul was stuck between the man and the wolf; therefore, he had to choose: give into the wolf and kill you or give in to the wolf and hurt Bella. Knowing that Bell would not take the damage personally, he chose the latter. I do not know where they are, but I know they will return soon."

"But I don't get it. Rachel smells like Billy and Jacob. Why would Paul's wolf feel the need to attack her?" Leah asked, not impressed with his answers.

This was when old Quil decided to play dirty.

"May I remind you all that your former beta, Jacob Black, abandoned you all when you had red-eyed vampires on your land? Do your wolves not feel betrayed at the thought of Jacob Black? Now that Paul is the beta, he feels all your emotions. He holds the mantle and has the power of a beta, which means he has the instinct to cherish this pack! Did you all feel his panic when he was fighting between man and wolf?"

Sam spoke, then rubbed his chest.

" You know I did feel a brief moment of terror and anger when it happened. "

" I did too…" Jared admitted, " I didn't know what it was then. "

Some of the other members of the pack mumbled their agreement.

"Exactly! You all felt his terror and anger at making a tough choice to protect those around him. so instead of all this, we have nothing to be concerned about. I believe that Paul and his wolf are tending to Bella and any wounds she may have. She may have a few scars when you see her, but knowing Bella, she won't make a big deal out

of it."

"This is insane!" Jared commented in agitation, "Haven't we been through enough? Now we have to deal with this! Paul has been excellent in helping us keep the pack together, but I still don't think he would attack somebody. And then theirs, Bella. We all know she's the self-sacrificing type. So are we just supposed to wait for them to come back? Should we go search for them?"

Old Quil shook his head.

"no. I don't know much about thier location, but I assure you those two will be back soon."

"and that's all you have to say!?" Quil growled. " Bella is out there alone with Paul! he attacked her! How do we know she is not bleeding to death? Or has a broken leg!-"

"Quils right," Embry spoke. " My sister could be hurt! And I like Paul, but we all know that we are at our most dangerous when our wolves are involved. Our jobs are to protect, not to harm!"

With that said, Embry walked out, and Quil followed him.

"I'll talk to them, elder," Sam assured them. With that said, the alpha sood and motioned his pack to follow.

Old Quil could only hope they fell for his explanation.

Meanwhile, sitting in the basement of the café disco was Asif.

Asif dialed Paul's number for the tenth time and received no answer. "Darn it, Paul, where are you?" he grumbled aloud.

"Is everything alright, Asif? Were you able to reach Pauly?" his aunt Amina asked.

"no! It makes no sense. We had an extraordinary meeting with some agents today, and he did not attend. I'm just glad they bought my excuse that we had a family emergency and that we could reschedule."

The kitchen door opened to reveal a grumpy Uncle Kareem.

"We need to get ahold of that Bella as well. It's unlike her to do three no-call no-shows." He complained. Asif rolled his eyes and turned back to Aunt Amina. Then, the latter froze, her eyes widening as a sudden revelation hit her.

" wait a minute. Both of them did a no-call no-show. I think something wrong has happened. We should visit Paul's house. He may be there."

"I think you're right, Auntie. Do you want to come with me?" Asif asked.

"of course. Kareem, will you close up for me, honey."

"I got you covered. Call me if you need something." Uncle Kareem assured her.

Asif and Amina then headed out the door.

The drive to Paul's home didn't take long. It was sunset when they arrived, casting shadows around them.

As they began to look around, no one was in sight. Cars were in driveways, but no one was outside.

Asif helped Amina up Paul's front porch as he began to knock on the door.

Of course, there was no answer.

He knocked again, and still no answer.

"may I help you?" a deep voice asked.

Asif and Amina turned around to see two men. Both had short crop hair and bulging muscles. They had to be at least 6'8. And the look on their faces was not welcoming.

Aunt Amina spoke before he could.

" yes. My name is Amina, and this is my nephew Asif. We are looking for my nephew Paul. We were supposed to meet this week, but he never showed; he hasn't been answering our phone calls, so we figured we would check on him. Do you suppose you could tell us where he is?"

"I'm sorry, but no." the First man replied. " we haven't heard from Paul either, but im sure he will be back, so-"

" what are you all doing here?" A dark voice growled, cutting the first man off.

Everyone turned to see Paul lahote naked as the day he was born, and in his arms was an unconscious, naked Bella. Both of them were covered in blood and scratches.

Amina gasped.

"Paul!" she began as she tried to step forward. However, Asif stopped, pulled her arm gently, and shook his head.

"look at his eyes, auntie. He's not fully human."

Amina looked at her nephew and gasped.

His eyes were bright yellow.

"Paul?" the first man questioned.

But her nephew ignored them. Instead, he cradled Bella to his chest and stepped up the stairs. With ease, he opened his front door and, without looking back, said, "Everything will be back to normal on Monday. Until then… leave us alone."

And then he slammed the door, leaving all of them on the front porch.

…

Sam sat in trepidation at Billy Black's dinner table. Since Rachel was back home, Emily thought it would be nice to bond with the girl. The Cameron family, the Clearwater family, and other elders were present.

"So Emily and Sam, when is the wedding? You two have been engaged for a few years! What is the holdup? We have been trying to get Jared and Kim to tie the knot for a while!" Jared's mom laughed as she nudged her son.

Jared groaned, and Sam sighed. He didn't bother to respond because he knew Emily would take over the conversation immediately.

"oh! Mrs Cameron, we have so many plans!"

And, of course, that led to a whole conversation about weddings and what kind of plates they would have at the reception.

"Sam? Everything alright?" Billy asked.

"Can I talk with you outside, chief?"

"of course."

The duo snuck away Quietly, ignoring the glare Emily threw their way.

"so what's going on, Sam? Any update on Paul and Bella?"

"That's what I wanted to talk to you about. They've returned. Jared and I noticed a strange scent around the reservation. So we went to check it out. It brought us to Paul's house. His aunt and cousin were there trying to find him. We wanted to scare them off, but Paul showed up before we could do that. Bella was unconscious and covered in blood."

"What! Did you say anything? Did you stop Paul?"

"no. he was completely lost to the wolf. He told us everything would be back to normal on Monday."

Billy sighed.

"then that's just what we will have to do. Did Paul's relatives notice anything?"

"yeah. I think he told them what he is, but I will need to confirm with him once this all settles down." Sam told him wearily.

" Sam, this whole year has been stressful and hard for you. I think you and the pack are doing a great job. Maybe you should take the day off tomorrow. Could you hand the reigns over to Jared for tomorrow?"

Sam smiled and said, "Is that an order? Cause I can't leave these rowdy monsters to Jared."

"yes, you can!" Jared shouted from the house.

Billy and Sam laughed.

"alright. I'll take the day off tomorrow, chief."

"That's Good. Let's not worry so much about Paul and Bella. I think they'll be okay."

Chapter Text

Chapter 15: just another Manic Monday

Brown paws hit the earth as Quil made his laps around the reservation. It was his and Leah's time to patrol.

Everything's Clear on the east side, Leah confirmed.

The West is straightforward, too. Quil told her stiffly. Even though his nose was low to the ground, he couldn't help but think about Bella. Her brown eyes and laughter flashed through his mind.

Leah groaned.

Listen, Quil, if the leech lover can put up with bloodsuckers, then Im sure she will be OK with anything else that comes her way. I might not like her, but she's a pretty tough cookie. I'll give her that.

Quil snorted and said, " Thanks, I guess Leah."

Like Clockwork, Bella's brown eyes were replaced by Naveah's grey ones, and a wave of peace settled in him.

"I know that feeling. I think about Silas all the time. Just thinking about him calms my wolf."

"im glad for you, Leah. You've been happier since you met him." Quil complimented.

"yeah, I have. It doesn't hurt to be around Sam and Emily now that I have Silas, but parts of me think something weird is happening with them."

"you know I caught on to that too. It's like they're somehow off. I can't explain it, but-"

Quil froze as the scent of vampires filled his nose.

"leech!" Leah howled. Quil snarled; the vampire was closer to him than to Leah. With supernatural speed, he ran in its direction. He howled a deeper howl to alert his pack mates that danger was at their doorstep.

"quil! im coming!" Leah told him.

Leah was by his side within record time as they approached the crouching vampire. Without waiting, Leah and quil attacked.

They fought first and asked questions later.

Quil yelped as they tore the leech apart when something heavy landed on his back.

"no!" Leah yelled. "They're three of them!"

"quil! Leah! The pack is coming!" Sam shouted in their heads.

Quil bucked and growled as he tried to get the vampire off his back, but nothing world. He howled in pain when he felt his back break.

"Quil!" Leah screamed.

Quil snarled.

One vampire was down, but the other two were surrounding Leah.

"no! leah! Ruuun! Sam hurry!"

Quil watched in horror as one of the vampires picked Leah up by her neck. Her paws dangling In the air.

"NOOO!"

Suddenly, a dark shadow knocked the vampire that had Leah down to the ground, its head being ripped off and thrown.

Quil watched as Leah fell to the ground, breathing heavily. And then, as the second vampire tried to run, the shadow cornered it and ripped its head off.

Quil's eyes widened when the shadow finally stepped into the sun.

Grey fur and bright yellow eyes looking back at him. "Quil? Leah? Are either of you hurt? Is anything broken?"

It was Paul.

…

"ARGH," Quil Screamed as Sam broke his back all over again.

"im sorry, Quil. It's almost over."

"I could care less about my back, Sam. I'm just glad Leah's ok. I'm grateful Paul was there.."

"I am too, Quil."

"is he ok? I mean…. Does he seem in control?" Quil whispered, "And where is Bella?"

"you know I haven't had the chance to ask him any questions. My only goal was for the pack to get to you and Leah. You passed out a few seconds before we arrived. Once we arrived, Paul had you over his shoulder and Leah in his arms. he ran you back here while we burned the leeches. He even managed to calm Naveah and Silas down before they could freak out. I honestly have no idea what to say to him. or what to ask, you know?"

Quil grunted as Sam straightened out the last few bones in his back; after a few moments, the relief came. It was standard that all pack members knew how to break, rebreak, and set the bones in their bodies. Just in case someone got hurt on the battlefield, everyone knew what to do and how to do it.

"Well, I know one thing: as soon as I get up from here, im going to ask him where Bella is. And thank his angry butt for saving us."

"or, you could rest and let your imprint know you're ok?" Sam suggested.

At the mention of his imprint, all thoughts of his cousin vanished. Naveah was the only one on his mind.

"yes! I want to see Naveah and then well talk to Paul."

Sam chuckled.

"yeah, that part."

Leah sat in Silas's lap as she watched Paul from across the table. He was eating an apple and flipping through a magazine.

How can he be so calm? She thought . He can't just show up here without answers .

"What's up, Lee?" Paul questioned without looking up from his magazine.

Leha jumped, not realizing he knew she was watching him.

"I - I just want to thank you. For saving me… and Quil. You got there on time."

"And?"

"And?" Leah questioned.

"there's something else on your mind. I can feel it."

Leah sighed as she exited Silas's lap and sat beside Paul at the table.

"Well, I just want to know what happened. From your mouth, not from old Quil. Are you…..okay? Is Bella okay? And what happened a week ago? Why did you want to attack Rachel? Is it really because you thought Billy was hurt?"

To her surprise, Paul took her hand with a tender look in his eyes.

"Relax, she-wolf. Everything is ok. I'm okay. The pack and Bella are okay. I can't give you an explanation of what happened because I don't know what happened myself. I was on my way to see chief black, and when I got there, Rachel black was standing in the doorway. I remember pieces and parts of what happened. I felt angry and protective, and then I heard Bella scream at me. The only thing I could do to gain some control over my wolf was to squeeze Bella. I shredded her back to pieces when I did that. But in a way, Bela throwing herself in my arms saved my life and brought some clarity back to me. She'll always have those scars, and I'll be in her debt for the rest of my life."

Then, Leah realized the whole pack was in Sam and Emily's dining room. All of them looked at Paul in surprise and understanding. Quil had even made his way out of the guest room so that he could listen, Naveah tucked into his side.

" so, where is Bella?" Quil asked.

Paul looked up at Quil and shrugged.

"I don't know. I was asleep when I felt the pack's terror. I jumped out of bed and didn't look back. She was asleep on my couch last time I checked."

Old Quil watched his niece hum and cook up a storm as he watched her. Sue Clearwater quickly called him when she saw Bella entering Charlie's room at the clinic. With speed, he didn't know he had old Quil, so he went to the hospital to check on her.

To his surprise, though, she seemed perfectly fine. She was smiling and cheerful, even bringing him to Charlie's for lunch. But he knew it was just a façade.

"Bella?" he called.

Bella ignored him and continued to hum while she cooked.

"Isabella lahote." He barked.

This time, she turned to him-dark circles under her eyes and a sadness hanging over her.

"yes, uncle Quil."

"come sit down, girl; the food can wait."

She did so, and Quil squinted at her.

"Now, don't lie to me, child. How are you? Do you feel any different?" He watched as she sighed-a trembling hand covering her eyes.

" I'm a wreck, Uncle Quil. My dreams are filled with wolves, and I can feel the pack and their emotions. I was awoken today by the feeling of terror; before I could do anything, Paul had jumped out the window. And to make it worse, he won't touch me unless he has to! The normal affections he would show me stopped, and I don't understand it. im feeling things I've never felt, im able to see farther than before and hear things that I shouldn't. I don't know what's going on."

"oh, thank The Almighty!" Old Quil sighed as he slumped back in his chair.

"wait-what?" Bella questioned as she looked at him as if he had a third eye.

"don't you understand what this means, Bella? The things you're experiencing mean that the marking worked! I had to do deep research before developing a theory, but when a wolf marks his mate, she becomes what he is. What I mean by this is that you are the pack's Beta female. Your second in command if something goes wrong. Paul is the beta, which means you, his chosen mate, is also the beta. The beta of the pack tends to be the one to carry the second burden. The alpha carries the first burden, communicating with his pack at all times, even when they are not phased; the alpha can telepathically call anyone in his pack, including the imprints. The beta, however, shares a similar gift. The Beta can sense all the emotions of his pack mates, including his alpha, and feel them wherever they are. The beta can also find any of his packmates, no matter where they are. This is why the AlphaBeta dynamic is so important. You can't have one without the other. They balance each other. Sam can call them, while Paul can sense them. Put these together, and you will have a pack that will stay in order. It's a pack that will remain calm; It's why it has recently felt so lost when Jacob is missing. Give yourselves some time to adjust to the changes, sweetheart. It's a lot to take in. Talk to Paul about how you feel. Did you ever think he can feel your stress whenever he touches you. he probably assumes it has something to do with him."

Old quil watched his niece bite her lip and think.

"that's a lot to process."

"I know, so I'll cook the rest of this lunch for us. You sit down and relax."

As he began to cook the meal Bella had started, his niece spoke. "so, if Sam has the power to call anybody to him and Paul can sense their emotions, can't they just call Jacob home?"

"Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way. First of all, Sam doesn't know he has this power. It's something he wasn't ready for at the time, and then when Jacob stepped up to become beta, I thought I didn't need to reveal any of the alpha's secrets to Sam because Jacob seemed ready to take up the mantle. But then all of that fell to pieces, And I admit part of it was my fault. The pack might have been stronger if I had revealed some of this earlier. So now I have to sit with Sam and Paul and tell them the truth."

"Uncle Quil!" his niece reprimanded.

"I know. I know. That was my mistake. I know. I was hoping the pack would never have to get to this point where they needed all the extra talents. And then the newborn war Charlie's heart attack and all the imprints coming along. it was a lot but not an excuse. I'm going to do better by this generation."

" I hope you mean that Uncle Quil the pack has been frustrated for some time. Knowing this information might put them at ease."

" I agree with you kiddo. Don't you worry I'll have the answer for them. Now let's eat."

That night when Bella went to work she was surprisingly swarmed with hugs from her boss and coworkers.

" Oh, Bella we were so worried about you!" Mrs . Badawi greeted her.

"Hi, Mrs. Badawi. I apologize for the no call no show I-"

Mrs. Badawi waved her excuse away and said "There's no need, we understood what was going on. Now go see Kareem."

Bella felt a weight lift off her chest when Paul's aunt told her that. She had been feeling guilty ever since she woke up.

His uncle Kareem has the same understanding. He hugged her and told her to simply get back to work, no harm no foul. The man even called her culinary school and was able to get her some time off.

Bella couldn't have asked for better bosses.

Before she knew it, she was involved in the hustle and bustle of the diner, cooking up orders like there was no tomorrow.

"pretty flower?" Amina called from the doorway

Bella put the chicken in the oven and turned toward her.

"yes, mam?"

"We are packed tonight do you think you could help us out in the front of the house?"

"of course!"

With that said Bella found herself shuffling through the diner, going to the various levels and taking orders. It kept her mind busy.

At the last hour, as she was wiping tables Bella felt a presence behind her.

She turned to see one of her co-workers, Laura. She had waistlength black hair and dark eyes.

"Hey Laura can I help you with something?" " yes, you can. I want you to stay away from Paul."

"excuse me?" Bella questioned.

"you heard me White girl, stay away from Paul. He's mine."

Bella looked at Laura as if she had an extra head.

"And you think he's yours because?"

Laura opened her mouth to say something but Amina's presence was quick to shut her up.

"Laura, I believe making threats toward coworkers is a good reason to cut your pay."

Laura immediately clammed up and walked away.

Amina then turned to Bella.

"Why don't you head home Bella? I can finish here. And in the meantime, you should talk to Paul."

Bella yawned when she got to Charlie's turning on the light. When made her way to the kitchen she jumped startled by the presence in her kitchen.

"Paul." she greeted "You scared me."

Paul was sitting at her father's kitchen table, a cup of coffee in his hand. Another mug full of tea on the other side. When he looked at her, his eyes were bright yellow.

" I came home from helping the pack and you were gone. I've been waiting all day for you to come home. I cooked dinner and lit candles. I figured when you came home from work, we could sit down and talk. And yet… I find you here. You weren't going to come home were you?"

Bella opened and closed her mouth. Not knowing what to say.

Finally, she decided on the truth.

"your right… I wasn't going to come home. I just… it's not you Paul, you didn't do anything wrong. This whole process has been a lot for me, and for us… and… I didn't want to crowd your space. I mean… now that Rachel is home, I'm sure that Billy doesn't need me anymore, and now you're free of the imprint.. we can move on… I just… I feel so many things and I don't want to hinder your life and-"

Bella's depressive rant was cut short when Paul growled. The walls shook from the timber of his voice.

"do you hear yourself right now yahelo? What made you think that I-"

Paul stopped talking as a sudden revelation hit him.

Now that she was marked and he was free of the imprint, she thought he was going to leave her.

"you think im going to leave you don't you?" he questioned.

This time she wrapped her arms around herself. He took that as a yes.

" come here, Isabella ." He commanded. There was a power in his voice that made her have no choice but to follow.

Bella did so, closing her eyes as Paul gently put a finger under her chin.

"Isabella marie lahote look at me. please, baby." He pleaded softly.

This time, Bella did meet his eyes, and when she did, both of them gasped.

Paul felt something push itself towards his wife. It was a binding. A tying of souls .

A bond that was finally complete.

Bella reached for him, her hands tangling into his hair.

"paul? what- that wasn't an imprint was it?"

" no… no baby, that was the marking completing itself. We did everything we needed to but we have been avoiding each other." He admitted. " I just didn't want you to resent me."

"and I didn't want you to leave me." she confided.

"I won't leave you yahelo."

"and I don't resent you rajli."

Paul's eyes widened and a big smile showed itself on his face.

"Someone has been practicing their Arabic." He complimented.

"I have, and I owe you an apology. I should have communicated to you how I was feeling."

"We were both wrong yahelo. I should have communicated to you how I was feeling as well. We have to make sure we make clear communication a priority. I have something for you."

Bella groaned.

"ugh..paul. no gifts."

"this one is special. It was my mother's."

Paul then pulled out a simple golden band. A small diamond in the middle.

" Will you wear this ring as a sign of our commitment?"

"as long as you promise to wear one when you're not phased," Bella questioned.

" I would be proud to do so," Paul told her as he slipped the ring onto her finger.

"it's beautiful." She told him as she looked at it in the light.

" not as beautiful as you. now, can you please come back home? To our home?"

Bella smiled.

"yes. I would like that very much. And while we do that, you need to tell me about Laura."

"Oh, that won't be a problem. You on the other hand can tell me about the changes you've been experiencing."

"Did Uncle Quil open his mouth?" Bella asked.

"you know he did babe. He got Sam and me together today. We almost wanted to take a chunk out of him."

Bella laughed.

"im glad you didn't."