Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

──⋆. 𐙚 ˚

To everyone who needs softness in their lives

 ⋆. 𐙚 ˚ ──

 

☾.˙⋆✮ ──

𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐂𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬

── ☾.˙⋆✮

 

Danielle Russell portraying...

𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐦𝐧 𝐒𝐰𝐚𝐧
⤷ ♡| Jacob Black

 

Danielle Campbell portraying...

𝐑𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧
⤷ ♡| Quil Ateara (formerly)

 

Katherine McNamara portraying...

𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐃𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐰𝐨𝐨𝐝
⤷ ♡| Quil Ateara

 

Navia Robinson portraying...

𝐋𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐚 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐬
⤷ ♡| Seth Clearwater 

 

Madison Bailey portraying...

𝐋𝐮𝐧𝐚 𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐧
⤷ ♡| Embry Call 

 

Matthew Daddario portraying...

𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐄𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧
⤷ ♡| Paul Lahote

 

Marcel Ruiz portraying...

𝐙𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐚
⤷ ♡| Bree Tanner

 

 ─ 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 ─

𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑨𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔

on SPOTIFY under sandraballinger

♪‧₊˚

 

𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬: 

Kidnapping

Stalking

Sexual assault (not with family or lover)

Death of best friend

Murder

Manipulation

Homophobia (not from OC or pack or the Cullens)

Abuse of power

Child abuse

Edward is the villain in the OC's story

 

𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐝.

𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫.

Chapter Text

I sigh as I sit on the swing that is hanging from a tree by the beach, rocking back and forth. I watch the waves as they gently crash on the shoreline. My big sister is coming back, and I don't know how to feel because her mom—yes, her mom—didn't want me. I was adopted because Charlie wanted me, but Renee didn't. And when Renee left, she took Bella, and Bella's been gone for ten years. Honestly, I miss my sister... But at the same time, I hate her for leaving. 

I look up to see Sam throwing Leah into the ocean water. A laugh leaves my mouth as she screams, "I AM GOING TO KILL YOU, SAMUEL ULEY!" I shake my head at their shenanigans, but then all of a sudden, I feel someone picking me up. I turn my head to see Paul, and the moment he has a good grip on me, he begins running towards the water. 

Oh, hell no, that water is freezing, I think as I twist and kick in his arms. "LET ME GO ASSHOLE!!!" He tosses me in the air. "FUCK YOU!" I scream, then I am submerged in the freezing water. With me being petty, I pretend to be drowning. It only takes about 30 seconds before feeling arms around me and hearing panicking voices. Being pulled out of the water, I laugh out as Paul glares at me. Leah nodded in approval. Paul drops me in the sand, and I throw some at his back.

I get up and see Jacob. My face lights up as I run to him. He opens his arms to welcome me. "What did you do, Moonshine?" 

I roll my eyes, "He started it." Paul glares at me as I point at him. 

"You cause me to have a heart attack," Jacob says.

I smile, "Well, sucks to be you." 

Jacob shakes his head and pulls me closer to him, so I can warm up.

The sun sets, and the sky lights up with stars. I lay my head on Jacob's shoulder as he wraps his arms around my hip, and I do the same. 

Sam looks at me as we make a bonfire. "You've been withdrawing from us. What's wrong?" 

I let out a breath as I look at the group, "Bella is coming back tomorrow, and I don't know how to feel." Jared's jaw drops open. Quil blinks like crazy, and Embry's eyebrow shoots up. 

Paul freezes. "What!?" He says deadly. Paul has anger issues, and it is bad when someone hurts his loved ones.

Seth frowns, "Maybe she misses you, too." 

Leah glares at the fire, "You were there holding her as she cried out for Bella not to leave!" 

Sam sighs, "I mean, Bella didn't have a chance to choose. She was a kid herself." 

Paul rolls his eyes. "She chose to stay away when she got older." 

I nod with a heavy heart. Jacob holds me tightly and kisses the top of my head. "I just don't want to get attached to her, then she leaves me again," I say quietly. 

Jacob pulls me into his lap. "We will never leave you, Moonlight." I smile and wrap my arms around his neck. 

Emily arrives with s'mores stuff. I smile up at her. "You are the best." 

She laughs and sits down, and Sam wraps his arms around her. Leah looks sad, not because the two are together. But the fact that Leah's ex-girlfriend, Ashley, recently broke up with her because Ashley's family found out and took her to those camps. 

It hurts seeing her in pain. So, I get up and sit by her, wrapping my arms around her. She smiles and hugs me back. I take a deep breath. "I just don't know what to do," I say. 

Leah shrugs, "If she doesn't want to build a relationship with you, then fuck her." 

I grin at her. "This is why I love you, Lee Lee." She rolls her eyes. 

Sam lets out a deep exhale and starts to make s'mores. That's when Roseanne finally shows up and gives us drinks. I take a sip of my Caramel Macchiato as she says, "I am so sorry for being late. My brothers were being assholes." 

Quil smirks and kisses her softly. She smiles and sits in his lap. He kisses her all over her face, and she laughs. "Stop it, or I am going to drop our drinks." He looks at her lovingly and takes his hot cocoa from her. 

"You will always have us, Ausie," Emily says to me, and eats a s'more that Sam made. He then makes one for me. 

I take it gratefully. "Thank you, guys. I love you." 

Emily beams, "We love you more, sweetie." She is like a big sister to me, and Sam is the big brother I dream of having. 

Jacob and Embry are wrestling on the ground. "My bet is on Jake," I say. 

Quil's eyebrows raise, "Nah, my bet is on Embry." 

Leah rolls her eyes as they wrestle. Jacob got on top, winning the fight. 

I stuck my tongue out at Quil, "Told you." He handed me ten dollars. I let out another deep breath, my mind wandering back to my sister. "Tomorrow can go amazing or be the worst day ever." 

Roseanne gets up and sits by me, hugging me. "I got your back, love."

I laugh as Quil rolls his eyes. We joke that if Roseanne were bisexual or pansexual, then she and I would be dating. "You're just jealous in another universe, me and Rosa are together." He glares at me as Roseanne laughs. I look up at the stars in the sky; it is full noon tonight, and it is beautiful. I lean on Roseanne, she hugs me tightly, and kisses the top of my head. I relax and close my eyes, and yawn. 

"Come on, I will drive you home," Sam says, noticing my sleepiness. I nodded and got up. 

Jacob looks up, "Tired, Moonlight?" I nod, and he gets up to pull me in a hug. "Good night, sweet dreams." We're just friends, but I have the biggest crush on Jacob that it's not even funny.  

Sam opens his truck door for me. The moment I get in, I am out like a light. A moment later, I feel someone carrying me. I snuggle closer to their chest. 

Sam laughs, "You love to take my body heat." 

I nod, then I hear Dad's voice, "Thank you, Sam." 

"Of course," Sam gives him a nod and goes up the stairs to my room. He puts me on my bed. "Good night, Kiddo." 

I smile up at him tiredly. "Love you, Sammy" 

"Love you more, Ausie," He replies and kisses my forehead before he leaves. I close my eyes and fall asleep.

I wake up to the smell of coffee. I get up and go around my room to get ready for the day, feeling scared for Bella's arrival. I dress in jean pants with a warm sweatshirt, a soft brown vest jacket, and I put on a bow. I smile in the mirror and go downstairs to the kitchen.

Dad gives me a partially tired grin and hands me a cup "Ready, Ausie?" I nodded in response. My phone dings; I look at it to see the groupchat.

Sammy:
Good luck kid

Lee Lee:
Let me know if I need to kick her ass

Jake:
Remember, we love you

Paly:
I swear, if she makes you cry, I am going to beat her up

Rosa:
Paul, you can't beat up a girl!

Paly:
She hurt Ausie first!

Sethey:
My god, anyway, I hope everything will go well for you <3

Me:
Thank you guys, love you

Quily:
I wish I could be there

Em:
Me too ughh love you sweet cheeks

I roll my eyes reading Embry's text. He knows I hate that nickname, but Embry loves to get under my skin.

Emmy:
Call me so I can make your favorite pie

Another smile finds my face. Emily is the sweetest person ever. 

Dad and I get in his police cruiser and start to head to the airport. Dad puts music on as we pull up. I take a deep breath and get out of the truck. As we wait for Bella, I sit down and read Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead, and Dad grabs us something to eat. While I munch on a breakfast burrito, I see Bella.

She looks around and sees me. She stops in her tracks. I stop eating and drop my book. She starts running towards me, and I run towards her too. She wraps her arms around me, tears falling down my face. "I miss you so much, sweet Ausie." 

I hug her tightly. "Why didn't you visit us?" 

She sighs and pulls away. "I will tell you later." 

I nod, and she awkwardly hugs Dad. We head back to the house, and it becomes an awkward car ride. Hopefully, when we get used to being around each other again, it won't be this way.

As we get home, I see Jacob and Billy at the front of the house. My face brightens as I get out of the car. Jacob pulls me in a hug. "How was it?" 

I look at him happily, "She missed me, too." 

He smiles warmly at me, and Bella comes up to us. "Hey, Bells," he nods at her. 

She returns with a tight grin. "I miss you too, Jake." He pulled her into a hug, and he had his arms around us. 

As I pull away, and see Billy's old truck and Sarah's old 1999 Chevrolet Impala. "Your guys back to school gifts," Billy says. I received the Impala.

"I love it," Bella and I say at the same time. Billy and Dad smile at that. I went to them and hugged them. "Thank you," they hugged me back, and then I turned to see Bella sighing. I went to her. "Do you want to meet one of my friends?" 

She shakes her head gently. "I am good. I want to get settled in, maybe tomorrow." I nodded.

I call Emily. It only rings once before she answers. "So how did it go?" She asks through the phone.

"She misses me, Emmy," I can feel her beam. 

"Good, because Leah and Paul were on the edge." 

I laugh at her words. "They are overprotective." You can hear her chuckle softly.

"I am heading your way," I say as I turn on my car. 

"What would you like?" She asks, ready to make dinner.

"Steak with mashed potatoes and Sam's signature milkshake," I reply, excitedly. 

"You got it, sweet girl." We hang up.

After driving about 20 minutes, I walk into their house, and oh my god, it smells amazing. I see Jared on the couch napping. I jump on him, and he groans and pushes me off. I hit the floor, but I smirk and get up to grab ice-cold water. Emily shakes her head, watching me head back to Jared, dumping the water on his face. 

He shoots up, sneering at me, "You bitch." He stands up and starts chasing me around the living room. He almost grabs me, but Sam comes in the house. I immediately get behind him and use him as a shield. 

He sighs, "I will never know peace with you two in my life." We grin sheepishly at him.

As we eat, I tell them how Bella misses me, and how Billy and Dad got us cars as back-to-school gifts. 

Jared nods approvingly. "That's good that it went well because Leah and Paul would have beaten her up." I shake my head, agreeing, but I wouldn't have let that happen. 

I yawn after eating all of that food, feeling safe and warm. Jared wraps his arms around me.

"Tired?" He asks, and I nod. 

"Sleep here," Emily offers, and Sam agrees to the idea. I gracefully accept and get up from the table. I head to the living room, put on a movie, and eventually fall asleep to it in the background.

Chapter Text

The following morning, I wake up to the smell of cinnamon rolls. I got up so fast from the couch and run into the kitchen, yelling, "I LOVE YOU EMMMY".

She laughs as she takes out her homemade cinnamon rolls. "Good morning, Sunshine."

"You guys spoil me" I smile at her happily, and I see Sam making smoothies bowls. Sam smiles and moves next to me to kiss the top of my head.

Roseanne comes in without knocking. "Good morning, mom and dad," she says playfully and takes one of the bowls. Sam smiles, giving a hug and kiss the side of her head too.

"I hate that we don't go to the same school anymore," I mutter, the words heavier than I meant them to be.

Dad switched me to Folks High because they offer better academic support—and to help keep an eye on Bella. Sam exhales. "Autumn, Folks High has what you need."

I drop onto a stool, frustrated. "I hate that I'm an idiot."

Emily turns sharply. "You're not an idiot. Your brain works differently. You have ADHD. You just need a little more support, that's all."

Rosa nods, pointing a spoon at me. "Exactly. And if I hear you call yourself an idiot again, I will slap the shit out of you."

I snort, then start laughing. It bubbles out of me uncontrollably, light and real. "Okay, okay! Message received," I say, wiping a tear from my cheek as I grin at them both.

As we eat breakfast, Bella texts me to see if I am ready to go to school. I stand up, grabbing my bag. "Alright, I've gotta go. Love you!" They pull me into a hug. 

"Love you more," Rosa says, grinning.

I blow her a kiss on my way out. In another universe, Roseanne and I are probably soulmates.

I hop in my car and drive to school.

When I pull up next to Bella's truck, she's sitting there taking a deep breath. "Here we go," I smile. 

We walk in together. People stare—not at us, specifically. Mostly at her. Bella rolls her eyes.

"You're the town's new toy," I nudge her.

She huffs, running a hand through her hair. "Why do they stare at me but not you?"

"Because I grew up here. They know me. And I know them."

Right on cue, Tyler spots me from across the lot and runs over, scooping me up in a hug.
I wheeze. "Goddamn, Tyler, let me breathe!"

"Sorry, little Swan," he chuckles, then glances at Bella. "And you must be big Swan." Bella blushes—for some reason, I kind of ship them.

Bella's 18 and I'm 16. We are only two years apart, which is why we used to be inseparable. Then Renee didn't like that Bella wouldn't leave Dad or me behind. She once called me a stray dog. Fuck her, honestly.

Tyler looks at my schedule. "Looks like we've got the same class!" He smiles as he drapes an arm around my shoulder, earning an eye roll from me. 

"I'll see you at lunch, Bella," I give a sorry smile. She nods and heads to her chemistry class while Tyler and I head to our shared language arts class. 

We enter class and sit next to each other. "So, how are you doing" He asks me.

I sigh, "I miss my old school friends..." 

He nods, but nudges my shoulder. "That is understandable, but, hey, me and you can hang out more," he says winking at me.

"Ew, gross. You're a senior."

He leans back, grinning. "Only two years older."

I shake my head, laughing. "If you try dating me, my dad will shoot you."

He snorts. "True, true."

Class starts, and I get a buzz from the group chat: Quil, Embry, Jacob, Roseanne, Paul, Jared, Luna, and Zach.

Rosa:
I hate this it feels weird that you're not here. Luna and Zach are being more dramatic than usual without you.

Quily:
They are acting like you die

Jake:
For real and Paul is pissed off that you're not in his gym class anymore

Paly:
Because who can I bully in gym class now?!?

Jare:
Luna easy

Luna:
I will bite his head off!

Paly:
She will put me in the hospital with that creepy doctor!

Me:
Damn I can't leave you guys alone without shit happening.

Rosa:
That because you are the mom in group and Jake is the dad.

Em:
It feels like a divorce!

Me:
Omg seriously Em you are dramatic as fuck right now.

Jake:
Now I have to deal with this by myself :|

Me:
Do I need to kick their ass when I come over?

Zacy:
NO PLEASE NO MY ARM IS RECOVERING FROM THE LAST YOU HIT ME!!!!

Me:
Then behave :|

Zacy:
But it fun to piss Jake off

Me:
I have my wooden spoon!

Zacy:
Oh hell no!

I laugh out loud, and the teacher shoots me a glare. I quickly shove my phone away.
"What's going on?" Tyler whispers.

"My friends are being dumbasses," I mutter.

He just shakes his head.

After that, I make it through my next two classes. Finally, it was lunch. Thank God, I'm hungry as fuck.

Bella and I grab our trays and head to the cafeteria. I spot Mike, Jessica, Angela, and Eric. I smile, and they smile back.

"Hey, Autumn," Angela says sweetly. 

"This is my sister Bella," I introduce her. they smile at her. They greet her politely, and we settle in, chatting and laughing. But then... something shifts. My stomach flips with a weird gut feeling. My whole body tenses.

I glance up and see a group of pale ass people—paler than Bella—walk into the lunch room with unsettling eyes.

"Who are they?" Bella asks, curiosity clear in her voice.

I'm frozen. My gut is screaming.

Angela answers softly, "The Cullens."

Jessica leans in, excited to gossip. "Doctor and Mrs. Cullen's foster kids. They moved here from Alaska a few years ago."

I've only heard about them through Paul, he gets ina  lot of fights, so it is normal for him to go to the hospital on a daily basis. I feel this energy running through my veins. What the fuck? My heart starts to race, and I'm feeling like I can't breathe.

"They kinda keep to themselves," Angela adds, glancing over her shoulder.

"Yeah, because they're all together. Like, together together," Jessica stage-whispers, scooting closer.

As she talks, a stunning blonde girl and a tall, buff guy walk in. "Um, the blonde girl that is Rosalie, the tall black haired guy is Emmett, they're a thing." She gives them a judgmental look, "I'm not even sure that's legal."

"It is illegal," I say automatically. Everyone turns to stare at me. "What? My dad's a cop." They nod, it makes sense.

"But they're not actually related," Angela offers.

"Still weird," Jessica mutters.

I nod slightly until the next girl walks in.

 Everything inside me stops. My breath catches. My heart goes still. I can't breathe, I think to myself. I blink rapidly. Then, the guy beside the girl looks straight at me. I need to get out of here!

"Oh, and okay, the little black haired girl is Alice. She's really weird. And, um, she is with Jasper, the blonde one who looks like he's in pain. " They pass us as Jasper, and Alice looks at me. I swallow. 

Breathe, Autumn. Breathe. 

I am trying to calm my racing heart as the last guy came in. He looks at Bella sharply. I felt a scream trying to escape my throat. 

"That's Edward Cullen," someone says.

With that, I stand up so fast my chair screeches. I couldn't take it. I don't know what was happening, but it was consuming me.

"Autumn!" Bella calls out, confused.

I'm already out the door, running. I'm in the woods, panting. My chest is tight, the world spinning. I feel like I'm going to pass out. I don't know where I'm headed, but I need to keep going.

My phone rings. I fumble to answer it.

"AUTUMN! AUTUMN, WHERE ARE YOU?!" Dad's voice is wild with panic.

Everything feels tight, and I want to scream. Everything hurts. My throat, my chest, my heart.

"Baby, where are you?"

"It hurts, Daddy..." I gasp. My body curls in on itself. I can't stop shaking. I hear him cussing over the phone. 

"Breathe, baby, breathe. I am coming to you," I curl up in a ball as I hold my throat.

It is getting darker and darker. Then, I heard people calling my name. I urge myself to open my eyes, despite the pain, and see Jacob. The moment he sees me, he runs in my direction. "AUTUMN!!" 

I cried out as he scooped me in his arms, and then he sat us on the ground, trying to help me take a deep breath. Everything stopped hurting. I took slow heavy breaths.

"Jake," I sob.

"I'm here, Moonly," he says, dropping to his knees and pulling me into his arms.

I cling to him like a lifeline. He kisses the top of my head, holding me tight.

I close my eyes. Inhale. Exhale. Slowly, I can finally breathe again.

"Autumn!!!" Sam and Paul come crashing through the trees. Sam drops to his knees beside me, gently cupping my face.

"Are you okay?" he asks, his voice cracking.

I blink at him, confused.

"You were gone for six hours," he says, voice trembling. "We searched everywhere."

My mouth opened and closed in surprise, but no words came out. 

Paul took a deep breath, got to his knees, and lay his forehead to mine. "Don't you ever do that again!" 

I hug him, "I am sorry." 

That's when I hear more footsteps; it was Bella and Dad.

Bella shoves Paul out of the way and rips me out of Jacob's arms. Paul glares at her, and I can hear him cussing her out in his head.

She holds me tightly. "You scared the shit out of me."

 "I am sorry," I say as she lets me go.

Then Dad pulls me into his arms. His hug is so tight it almost hurts, but I don't care. 

I feel lightheaded again, wobbling. I reach for Jacob's arm, and without hesitation, he lifts me into his arms, cradling me to his chest and laughing. We head toward Dad's cruiser. Billy and Harry are waiting by it.

"Thank fuck you're okay," Harry breathes, running a hand over his face.

Then I see her—Roseanne. She runs toward me, eyes red, face pale. Jacob gently sets me down, and immediately, Roseanne throws her arms around me, sobbing into my shoulder. "Fuck, don't do that again. I can't lose you."

"I know, I know... I'm sorry." I grasp onto her desperately.

I feel someone wrap their arms around us. I turn. It is Quil. "Fuck, you scared us." 

I close my eyes, feeling safe and warm again. 

My other friends rush to me, "What happened?" Zach asks. 

I shake my head, "I don't know, honestly." 

Jared raises an eyebrow, confused on how exactly I wasn't sure. Harry and Billy look at me curiously.

"What do you mean you don't know? You just don't run out of school for no reason," Luna says.

"I felt so overwhelmed... to the point I wanted to scream," I say, shivering.

Jacob immediately pulls me into his arms, pressing a kiss to the top of my head. I rest the side of my face against his chest, and he lays his chin gently on top of my head. I listen to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. 

When we got home, Jacob stayed with me. After a hot shower, I change into my Strawberry Shortcake pajamas and walk back into my room. Jacob's sitting on my bed, leaning back on his palms. I crawl between his legs and sit with my back to him.

Without a word, he grabs my hairbrush and starts brushing out my hair.

Jacob used to have the most beautiful long hair. He cut it after Sarah died in a car crash when he was just fourteen. Billy was in the car too. He survived, but he's been paralyzed from the waist down ever since. 

I sigh softly as Jacob begins to braid my hair. I close my eyes. His touch is gentle, practiced. When he braids my hair, something in me settles. I always feel calmer, more at peace. 

"When will you grow your hair back?" I ask. 

He lets out a sigh, "I don't know moonlight." 

I reach down and place my hand on his thigh, giving it a gentle squeeze.

"She would be proud of you, Jake. You're an A+ student, and an amazing mechanic—for a teenager, especially."

He huffs a laugh."I hope she is proud. " 

I turn around after he ties my hair. I cup his face. "She is proud, I can feel it." He smiles warmly at me and hugs me tightly. We fall asleep in each other's arms.

I wake up to voices outside my door and groan, burying my face in the pillow. "Can I hide in here forever?"

Jacob laughs. "Nope. Or Rosie'll come in and drag you out."

I sigh and drag myself out of bed. When I step into the kitchen, I spot Jared mid-bite. Is that my Pop-Tart?! That little shit.

I went to him and grabbed it as he almost took another bite. "HEY, I WAS EATING THAT!" He yelled. 

"These are my Pop-Tarts, asshole!" I snap at him.

Sam looks up at the ceiling as Dad drops his head and lets out a heavy sigh.

Roseanne grins. "Told you not to eat that. She loves her food too much to share."

I nod and munch on my Pop-Tart. Jared grabs a muffin instead and sulks.

Meanwhile, Embry and Luna are arguing about a school project. I smile.
"I bet those two will get together soon," I say casually.

Dad chokes on his coffee. Sam nods. "I give it four weeks."

I shake my head. "Nah. One week." They were too close already for it to be that long.

Bella chimes in, glancing at them. "They're already together. They just haven't told anyone."

We all stare at her.

"How do you know?" Paul asks, squinting at her. "You just met us."

I hit him with my elbow on his side. He needs to watch his attitude toward my sister.

"Look at them, they are so in love, and look how Embry's eyes are shining. Like how Jacob looks at Ausie." Bella shrugs.

At that, Jacob blushes, clearing his throat and pretending he didn't hear anything. 

"Damn girl," Roseanne says, smiling, "You're not beating around the bush." 

Bella smiles, "I've been shipping them since we were kids."

Dad chokes again. "Oh hell no. You guys are too young."

I roll my eyes at my dad's reaction. "I'm sixteen, not ten."

He sighs deeply. He looks exhausted from work and of all of us.

Sam glances at him. "We need a vacation."

Dad nods in full agreement. "Most definitely."

I glance at the clock and yelp, "Shit! We're gonna be late!" I look out the window and see my car in the driveway.

"Emily drove it here, " Paul says. He hugs me before heading to his truck.

I look at Jacob. "Can you take me to school?"

"Of course, Ausie," he says, handing me a helmet.

School goes by smoothly. Morning classes flew by, thankfully. Now, it's lunch, and I can finally eat.

Tyler hugs me. "Are you okay?" 

I nod with a small smile. "Yeah, I am now. " 

As we sit at the lunch table, I feel eyes on my back and see the creepy family staring at me. I shake my head and eat my food. That family gives me the creeps. 

After lunch, I head to history and spot Emmett sitting in the room. I take a deep breath and sit beside him.

"How are you?" he asks.

"Good. Just... felt off."

He nods. "I'm Emmett Cullen."

"Autumn Swan." I give him a small smile.

He grins. "Your sister Bella's making my brother lose his damn mind." He laughs.

I blink at him. "Your brother is creepy as hell."

He nods. "He is. I've never liked him, to be honest. He's... something else. Keep your distance."

My eyes widen. "You don't trust your own brother?"

He sighs. "It's complicated. Just stay away from him, okay?"

I nod.

By the end of class, Emmett and I have clicked, and we walk out together. We run into Rosalie, and somehow, she and I hit it off, too.

"You're truly a cutie," she says with a smirk after I tell her about my plans. "You'll make an amazing pediatrician one day."

I blush so hard. If I weren't falling for Jacob, I'd risk it all for Rosalie and Emmett.

The rest of the day went by nicely. The school day ends, and I exit to see Jacob at the front. I run straight to him, smiling. "JAKE!" 

He smiles and spins me around. "How was school Moonlight?" 

I happily beam at him."I made two friends, Emmett and Rosalie." 

His eyebrow rises. "As in Cullens?"

I nod. He sighs and kisses my forehead.

Click. We both turn to see Bella holding up her phone, grinning. "What? I need pictures for your wedding."

"Shut up!" I groan.

"Just date already!" she laughs.

Tyler dramatically clutches his chest like he's been shot.

Eventually, as the week drags on, Jacob takes me over to the beach for another hangout with the gang. I sigh as I let the waves and laughter of my friends soothe me. I took a deep breath. 

"You okay?" Roseanne asks.

I nod, laying my head on her shoulder. "Just... happy."

She smiles and stands, tugging me up. "Let's swim before the weather turns to shit again."

I slip off my summer dress, revealing a bikini with cherries and daisies on it. Roseanne drags me by the arm.

"Finally, you join us!" Paul calls as Bella and Jared chat by the water.

Bella agrees to come with me, and she actually looks... happy.

"Let's go cliff jumping!" Embry yells.

Luna shakes her head aggressively, but Roseanne smirks. "Hell yes."

Sam lets out a classic sigh heavily. Emily laughs at his pain as the oldest and the dad of the group. 

We spend hours hanging out and swimming. We are soaked and hungry. Zach got us pizza at some point. Today was a good day. Hopefully, it will be like this for the rest of our lives.

Later that evening, Jacob and I decided to go on a walk. We pass a small clearing and spot a boy—maybe ten years old—sitting alone and crying.

I walk over and kneel beside him.

"Hey, are you okay?" I ask as I sit in front of him.

 He looks up and I see the black eye. My stomach drops. Who in the world...

"My dad hates me... and my mom doesn't care," he whispers, shaking his head. His voice was meek and cracked ever so slightly.

The rage I feel is instant. This poor child... who in their right mind would ever hurt someone so young?

"Can I take you to my friend's house? We can help." I said softly.

He nods, and we walk to Jacob's home. Billy's eyes widen when he sees the little boy's face.

"What is your name, hon?" I ask as I grab ice. 

"Collin." 

I smile. "What a wonderful name. I'm Autumn, and that is Jacob and Billy." 

Collin hugs me tight, and my heart shatters a little more.

I would kill for this boy.

While Billy makes dinner, I call Dad. I'm going to fight for this kid, and so is Billy. He's already talking about custody. I won't let this kid go home to a family who treats him like this.

Collin falls asleep in my arms while we watch Beauty and the Beast.

"I'm going to kill his parents," I whisper to Jacob.

He squeezes my hand. "I'll join you."

I smile as we drift off to sleep together on the couch, Collin safe between us.

Chapter Text

It has been two weeks since Bella moved back here, and me and dad are loving it. Jared and Bella are so close it is adorable. Leah and Paul, on the other hand they still don't like her. But they are warming up to the idea of her being around. It just they don't want to see me hurt again. I sigh and get around to pick up Collin from his parents' house. Billy got full custody of Collin, the relief that everyone felt was unreal. Paul actually had tears in his eyes.

"AUSIE!!!" Collin yells as I get out of my car he jumps in my arms and giggles "hey collie" he smiles at me. He father glares at me.

"I can't believe you taking my son from me." I glare at him, my temper spiking. "Don't act like you care about him!" Collin hugs me tightly as he takes a step forward.

"Go in the car and lock the door and call Sam." he nods and takes my phone. "I do care about him!" He got in my face.

"If you care about him, you won't lay your hands on him, " I yelled at him,he growls.

"YOU DONT UNDERSTAND HOW HARD IT IS TO RAISE A BOY WHO DOESN'T LISTEN!!" He says as he tries to go to my car. I push him "BACK THE FUCK OFF!!! DONT YOU GO NEAR HIM!!" That piss him off and punch me.

"AUSIE!!!" Collin yells he gets out and before I can react he got in front of me when Maxwell was about to punch me instead he punch him hard. Collin fell on ground hard.

That when I lost my shit with inhumane speed I tackled him to the ground and punch him repeatedly as he let out maniac laugh. I hear someone shouting at me. This motherfucker punches me back we fight for dominates. I feel someone pulling me away from him I know that it's Sam. I spite out blood and he does the same.

"If you lay a hand on him again I will kill you motherfucker" I say panting. I see Paul kneeling down to check on Collin. Collin has tears in his eyes.

As Paul check his elbows and knees and face even though I am like couple feet away I can see scratch marks on his elbows and knees and his right eye has bruise up very clearly like inhumane clearly. Paul pick him up paul is 6'2 Collin looks so small in his arms. He sets Collin on the hood of my car and goes in his truck and grab first aid kit. I let out a sigh and take a deep breath.

"Damn mama bear" Sam says laughing "let this be a lesson never lay a hand on Collin, Maxwell" he adds in.

Collin dad he looks at sam with pure hatred. I see Lauren Collin mother.

"If you want a relationship with him leave Maxwell" I say she looks defeated. As Collin hold on to Paul tightly and Paul kiss the top of his head.

"Just take care of him....I know I am not mother of the year but I do love him" she says making me sigh "I know just leave Maxwell" she looks so torn up.

"You won't fix Maxwell, Lauren" Paul says I look at him like really look at him. His step father is a piece of shit. At that Paul put Collin in the back of the car and we head to La Push beach.

We arrived at the beach the boys lost their shit when they saw Collin cheek swollen. "I am going to kill that motherfucker" Jacob says as he hold Collin who wrap his arms around his neck. Seth looks piss.

"I will join you" we all look at him in shock Seth isn't a violent guy "what he is asshole and deserves to be beaten" Paul nods.

"Welcome to the dark side sunshine" Seth roll his eyes.

I watch as the boys play with Collin as me and Kim catch up. I miss her so much. "So you and Jared" I ask as she blushes she is shy and so sweet.

"We taking it slow" I rasie my eyebrows she laughs "I know slow with Jared is like oil and water."

I laugh "you think" Luna runs towards us with Embry behind her.

"GET THAT WORM AWAY FROM ME!" She screams, I shake my head laughing.

Quil and Roseanne are in their own little world. I smile. I can't wait for their wedding. Leah and Bella are talking civil??? I blink. I can hear them talking even though they are like on the other side of the beach.

"I don't want to see Autumn hurt again every time the holidays comes she waited for you and bought you gifts they are in the basement still." Leah tells Bella who looks down.

"I bought her gifts too I bought them here" Bella says softly.

Leah looks at her "why the hell you didn't visit then" Bella let out a sigh.

"Promise me you will not tell her this" Leah raise her eyebrow "my mom hates her for taking attention away from her. She will make up excuses for not being able to go down here for holidays, " she sighs."I wanted to be here. I miss her so much it hurts, Leah. " Leah nodded. Tears ran down my face, she wanted to be here.

I let out a shaky breath how the fuck can I hear their conversation so crystal clear. Then I feel arms around me I smile up at Jacob. He frowns at my tears "are you okay?" He ask softly.

 

I sigh "yeah just overwhelmed" he nods and sits on the blanket and wrap his his arms around me. Kim smiles at him.

"How are you Kim" she shrugs "fine just tired of school" he huffs "me too especially since Autumn isn't there" I roll my eyes "you are dramatic sometimes" I say, he smiles.

"Not as dramatic as Zach and Embry" he rely back.

I nodded "true they are so dramatic."

Paul pick up Collin in the air as Collin laughs "WE WON" paul shouts making Sam and Seth groaning as Emily laughs. I smile as I see how happy Collin is.

Me and Jacob smiles as Paul let him down and runs to us "did you see that Jake" Jacob smiles "I did buddy" Collin smiles and got in my lap and sighs and wrap his arms around my nod and lay his head on my shoulder he is 4 '6.5 so he is half of my size I am 5'3 . As he lay his head on my shoulder, he yawned and closed his eyes and took a small nap. I hugged him close to me.

Seth, come over to us and sigh heavily "what wrong?" He sits down and grabs a sandwich."I want to help my friend, but she is too scared to reach out for help. " I smile sadly,

"Just be there for her. " he nods. "Know it just I hate seeing her in a toxic relationship and won't let me help her" I sigh side hug him.

"If you have a gut feeling she is being abuse please get my dad in involved" he nods.

Me and Jacob helped Collin to learn how to swim. The good thing Jacob is 5'11 he able to stand in the water as I show Collin arms motion. To swim properly, Jacob keeps hand under Collin to help him swim. Then a boy ran to us to get his soccer ball "sorry" I smile "it okay" Collin asks shyly,"Can I play with you?" The boy smile "yeah of course, just letting you know my friends can be overwhelming. " Collin nods.

"What is your name?" Jacob ask.

"Brady" he answers.

"I am Autumn and that is Jacob and that is Collin" I say.

Brady smiles and says "me and you are going to be best friends" Collin looks at him.

"you are like two years older than me" Collin retorts back.

Brady shrugs "so what" Brady says rely back.

I smile "go on and play with him we are right here Collie."

He smiles. He runs with Brady and plays soccer with him and his friends. I see him laughing and smiling with the group of boys. Me and Jacob sits down with Sam and Emily, Leah and Bella, Quil and Roseanne. We watch the others playing around . Then Roseanne sneak behind Sam, and they start to wrestle with each other. Sam picked her up and threw her in the water.

"JACKASS" Sam laughs then jumps in she splash him with water laughing.

"Sam looks more happy" Kim says.

"Yeah he is thinking growing his hair back" Emily says I smile.

"He finally healing that is amazing" Bella says Sam lost his baby sister three years ago by a drunk driver. He took it hard he shut down for a while but then slowly came back around.

One of the boys got little rough with Collin, Brady push him away and yelled "DUDE BACK OFF JUST BECAUSE SOMEONE WHO IS SMALLER THAN YOU BEAT YOU DOESN'T GIVE YOU THE RIGHT TO PUSH HIM AROUND!"

Paul watches the scene closely. "Fuck you Fuller" Brady roll his eyes

"Dude just take the lose and move on" a other kid say and the aggressive kid walk away. Brady checks on Collin.

"Are you okay little buddy" Collin nods and went back playing. "They are soul brothers," I say to Jacob.

 

After like hours, everyone got tired and headed home. Collin gave me a goodnight hug. Jacob pull me in a long hug and kiss the top of my head then I hear. "KISS ALREADY FUCKING HELL" Zach shouted out loud.

I blush "FUCK OFF!" I yelled back making Collin laugh I smile Jacob shakes his head "I will kiss you on our date" my eyes widened he smirks "see you Friday Moonlight" and picks up collin and go in his truck.

Monday

 

Shit is getting weird I feel restless, my eyesight is more clearer than more normal and can hear people talking cross the room clearly and I hear voices in my head. My temper is getting worse the only times I don't lash out is when I am with Jacob and Collin. Bella is getting worried dad put me in anger management therapy group. I hate it so much.

Quil senior been oddly active in my life. He been asking me things like "do you feel off or on edge?" It is creeping me out because I do feel on edge I feel eyes on me when I go to rez. I sigh and take a deep breath and put on warm outfit it is freezing and on top that it's raining. Bella slips on black ice I help her up.

"You good?" She nods dad went to us and give us our keys "I put new tires on your cars girls please be safe" we smile at him.

"We will dad" we say together.

"Can we take your truck today" Bella looks at me knowing I hate driving in the rain. "Yeah of course" I smile and got in her track.

 

I am sitting with Emmett he looks like shit. "Emmett what wrong" he looks at me.

"Tell Bella to stay away from him" I look at him "why" he sighs "it complicated" I look at him he sighs.

"He is going to ruin her life" I sigh and nodded as our teacher walks in and starts our lesson.

As the day went by the storm got worse pit of my stomach drop I hate huge thunder storms. I want to home and cuddle with Jacob I close my eyes as Jessica talks prom. I can't shake off a feeling that something is going to happen. I have the strongest urge to go to Roseanne. I shake my head I am going crazy. But my gut is screaming at me to go to Roseanne. As the storm get worse.

Me and bella walk to her truck "Emmett say that to you" I nodded as I see the Cullens siblings talking to each other.

"His family is weird" I say she shrugs as I got in the truck and then Tyler van speeding down and slam his feet on the breaks I let out a scream as Edward pushes the van way from her. I got out of the truck so fast.

"BELLA" I scream as I got to her Edward look straight in my eyes. And goes back to his family. Emmett look at me begging me to connect the dots. Everyone surrounded us and calling 9-1-1.

Bella is getting check out as I getting something to eat and I grab something for dad and Bella. I feel eyes on me I look and see Rosalie looking at me with anger and sadness.

"Is everything okay" I ask her she sighs.

"I don't know we might have to make back to alaska." She murmurs.

I blink "What?!?!? Why?" I ask sharply.

She sighs "family shit" glaring at Edward.

 

"Fuck off Rosalie!" He yells at her I got in his face.

"Don't you talk to her like that asshole!" Rosalie smiles and wrap her arm around my shoulder.

"This why me and Emmett loves you" I smile up at her. Edward roll his eyes.

We got home I am making hot coco when I hear a knock on the door. I smile and see Rosa and Kim and Luna "rain equals girls' night" Kim says. I laugh Bella smiles as we walk in.

We put on Ten Things I Hate About You. Dad smiles and give us popcorn and went to the kitchen and clean his guns. We laugh and cry then we put on the princess bride.

" WHAT HE ASK YOU OUT FINALLY?!?!" Bella yelled I am smiling so big "no, more like he told me we are going on a date" Roseanne groans.

"Fuck, I have to buy Bella a book" Rosa grumbles.

Bella smiles say "I told you that he can't resist it anymore" luna giggles at their back and forth Dad shake his head as we have romance movie marathon. We did our nails and hair and giggling. I can see dad smiling at us. We all fall asleep on the couch.

Wednesday

There been lot of bear attacks it got to the point were dad doesn't allow us to go in the woods. Sam and Paul and Jared is getting more buffer and taller it is weird ever fast. And Paul anger issues gotten worse to the point he doesn't trust himself with Collin which made Collin sad. We don't know what is happening to them and it is scaring all of us.

Roseanne and me shopping for her 17 birthday on Saturday. We grab the foods and drinks. "So you and Jacob finally going on official date." Rosa says.

I smile and nodded "I am so excited."

she smiles and hugs me "I am so happy for you guys" she says smiling as we pick up some toys for Collin.We found out Collin never had kids toys. We spoil him rotten Jacob and me give him a stuffed teddy bear he carries around.

"I can't believe you will 17 soon Rosa" I say giddy she sighs.

"I know and next year me and Quil can get married" I smile as her eyes light up.

"Have you two think about kids?" I ask and she sighs

"Yes but with my family history it is going to be hard to conceive a baby." She says sadly.

I frown "I am so sorry Rosa. I will pray for you. If anyone deserves to be a mom is you."

she smiles "thank you Ausie" I nodded and hug her.

We arrived at Emily and Sam house Roseanne wants her birthday celebration at their house. Emily smiles "hey girls" we smile and hug her as Sam grab things from my car.

"Emily I was wondering if you can do my hair for my date with Jake" I ask she smiles "yes". Then I hear footsteps running towards us.

"ANNEEE AUSIE" Collin yells excitedly and hug us as Paul and Jared running towards us too.

"Hey buds" Roseanne says as Collin wrap his arms around her waist she kiss the top of his head.

Bella comes in while talking to Leah I raise my eyebrow Embry does the same. "When have you two become buddies" Paul says glaring at Leah like she betrayed him.

Leah shrugs "my opinion about her is changing" I look at her and Bella is it because what Bella told at the beach. I just glad they are finally getting along. I sigh and help Emily in the kitchen.

The boys are fighting over the last piece of pie I roll my eyes Sam sighs heavily.

"I swear I should be pay for babysitting" Emily laughs. Roseanne smiles as Quil kiss her  all over her face.

"Can you not while we are eating" Leah says huffing as Seth frowns "they being cute sissy" she roll her eyes. I wish I can hit pause button and just soak up this scene.

Friday

Autumn

"Oh my god, you look so beautiful Ausie" Bella says I smile I am wearing cherry summer dress Emily put my hair in a braided crown.

"Wow, baby girl you look beautiful" dad says and kiss my forehead Sam smiles

"Our baby is all grown up" Sam say. Embry side eye him.

"Yet people call me dramatic" Embry say.

Jared blinks at him "because you are."

Seth smiles "Jake is lucky to call you his girl" I smile "thank you sethey" he blush. Quil shake his head as he pull Roseanne in his arms.

"Ready sunshine" she nods and smiles.

"Where you two going?" Dad ask.

"We are going to Port Angeles to get fresh air" Quil respond back.

Sam nods "be safe."

Quil smiles "of course 'dad' " Sam roll his eyes. I hug Roseanne.

"Have fun" she says and wink Paul smirks.

"Not too much fun or you will make Charlie be a young Grandpa" Paul says dad looks so done with us.

"I swear to god Paul I will arrest you" dad hiss. Paul smirks Sam groans.

"Paul stop poking the bear" Sam says.

I hear a car door shut I smile. "hold on I need my camera" Bella says and ran upstairs and comes back down. Jacob come in and he stares at me with awe expression.

"You look beautiful moonlight" I blush as the girls say awww together.

"Really?" I ask.

He smiles "I will never lie to you moony" he says and kiss the back of my hand.

I smile and he takes me hand "bring her back at 9 pm Jacob" Jacob nods "yes sir" dad sighs heavily. Collin hugs me tightly "love you Ausie" I smile and kiss his forehead "love you too collie" dad hugs me "be safe baby" I smile.

I smile when got to spot that Jacob pick for us to panic at and see he already got everything set up. "Wow Jacob this is perfect" I say stunned.

He blush "really?" I take his hand and kiss the back of it.

"Yes, I don't need fancy dates. I just need you" he smiles at me.

"This why I love you Autumn Swan" my smile is so big.

"God we are cheesy" I say giggling.

Jacob side eye "because you and girls watch to many romcoms" I roll my eyes.

We talk everything and anything our fears and dreams and future. "You want 5 kids?!?!" Jacob say

"Yes, I want home full with laugher and full of memories" he smiles and wrap his arms around me as I talk. I sigh and lean on his chest sitting between his legs felt like home. He pulls me in his lap I wrap my legs around him. He cup my face and leans in. His lips are so soft as they kiss my gently. Then the kiss deepen. It is full of love and affection. We pull away.

"I love you Ausie" I smile as I look into his eyes.

"I love you more Jake" he lay his forehead on my.

Roseanne

I smile at the sunset "so you want our wedding at the la push beach?" Quil ask as he sit behind me and kiss my neck I smile and turn.

"Yes because that were we met and where we have our first date and kiss at, it will be perfect to have our wedding there"

He nods "it is perfect sunshine" I love when he calls me sunshine. Jacob and Quil thinks it is perfect how they call us sunshine and moonlight. Jacob calls Autumn moonlight because she out shines the darkness.

"I can't believe we been together for six years" I say he hugs me close.

"Same I can't wait to marry you and have two beautiful kids with you" He says gently.

I smile "our baby girl will be name as Malia and our baby boy Alo" he smiles.

"Perfect sunny" he says yawning.

"Ready to go home?" I ask he nods.

I drive him home he kiss me softly "good night sweetheart love you" I smile.

"Love you more baby" I say and he smiles and goes in his house. I head home.

 

I walk in my house mom is waiting for me with a smile "how was your date" she ask.

I smile "good mom" that when our Rottweiler Bruce runs to me I smile as he knocks me down and lick my face. "Ready to for a walk.

Dad looks at me "stay in our woods and take my gun" I nodded.

As we head back I feel eyes on me I turn and see a redhead staring at me Bruce stares to growling the redhead smile "hello snack" my heart beats faster then two other people pop and that when I took off. I was grab from behind I cried out Bruce attack them but then they throw him out of the away I scream. The black man cover my mouth I shave him away like ten feet away from they all look shock hell I am shock then blonde dude grab my throat. I fought them off. But then slowly they break my bones.

I tried to army crawl but then one of them grab my hair and then bite me I scream. As I slowly go limp "Quil I love you" then everything went dark.

Quil

I feel this horrible pain like something die inside of me. I call Roseanne, and she didn't pick up. I called again and again. Something is wrong. I call Charlie "what going on, kid?" Tears running down my face.

"I can't reach Roseanne, Charlie she never done this before."

I am running around to get around. Dad looks at me "what wrong?" He ask.

"Roseanne is missing." he gets up and grabs his gun.

"Quil, I will dispatch police officers. We will find her." I hang up and run to dad car.

Everyone is out and looking everywhere for her. I was close to her house when I saw her dog limping "Bruce." He looked at me and turned around. I ran to him, and then I saw her. I ran to her.

"ROSEANNE" I scream her head is so close to falling off "Roseanne baby please" her body is cover in blood her bones are broken "PLEASE WAKE UP PLEASE BABY" I scream and scream and scream. I gently hold her body screaming and crying. I didn't hear someone shouting at me, and then I heard a high-pitched, terrified scream. I looked up and saw Autumn hold her stomach sobbing and fall to the ground.

Jacob soon got here, tears in his eyes "no" he cried out and held autumn, then Sam went me.

"Sam-" I choked out and sob, "we planned our wedding." he hugs me to his chest as I cry. "No, this can't be happening," I heard Jared say with a broken voice. Then I look up and see Paul with rage in his eyes as tears run down his face.

Autumn

This feels unreal as the police take Roseanne out of Quil arms he tried to hold on to her tightly. Bella, hold me, has I sob harder as Quil yells, "YOU NOT TAKING HER FROM ME!" As they took her out of his arms. Seth hugs Luna as she sobs. Leah is holding Zach as he fights to go to her.

"ROSEANNE NO NO NO." Leah has tears running down her face. As Zach screams, Sam holds Quil as the police zip up the body bag. Everyone has tears running down their face. Sam looks straight forward with pure determination and revenge. Like he knew what happened and will hunt whatever killed Roseanne.

Paul and Jared look at Sam, who helps Quil in my dad's police cruiser. Then they run off. Leaving me confused.

Chapter Text

I haven't seen or heard from Paul and Jared and Sam. After we found Roseanne three days ago me and the others call and text them why the fuck they're ignoring us. I walk in school after not being here. Bella glare at Edward I look between are they together? Me and Roseanne made a bet on they are dating. I said no she said yes.

Tyler is the first to hug me. I hug him tightly. "If you need anything, let me know, Ausie." I smile weakly, tears in my eyes.

"Thank you, I needed that." I say as he hugs me tightly and kisses the top of my head. Jessica and Angela hug me next, and Mike and Eric give me a comforting smile. I lean on Bella she been my rock. I look up and see Edward look at her and shake his head, and she glares at him.

"Hey, will you be okay without me for while? I need to talk to someone." She says. I look at her and nod. As Tyle wraps his arms around me.

"I got her." I smile at him.

"Under all that playboy mask, you're a teddy bear." I say.

He laughs. "Only you can call me that." I smile a real smile. I close my eyes, and the group chat has been quiet. Paul and Jared haven't answered us, and it is pissing me off. I sigh.

"Angela?" She looks up."Yeah?" I take a deep breath. "Will you be able to edit pictures for....Roseanne funeral?" tears running down my face, she lay her hand on my hand and squeezes. "Yes, of course," my lips  wobbles I take a deep breath. "Thank you," Tyler squeezes me softly.

Bella

I walk in the woods, pacing back and forth. If Jasper killed Roseanne, I am going to lose my shit! Edward came to me. "I swear to god, if Jasper killed her, I will -" he glares at me.

"Will what? You can't kill us Bella" I glare at him.

"not me but the volturi can" I growl.

He freezes "you won't and it wasn't him" I narrow my eyes.

"You and your family are only vampires here!" I hiss out.

He sighs and takes a deep breath. "We have been hunting down the vampires who are killing people here. All we know is a group of three vampires." I sighs I shake my head

Edward pulled me in his arms. I held on to him. "She was like a little sister to me, Edward," as tears ran down my face. "Autumn wakes up screaming every time, and somehow I feel the house shake little," he pulls back.

"What?" I sighs."Something is happening to my baby sister Edward."

He nods,"Just keep an eye on her, okay? " I nodded. I want to go back to my little Ausie. I walk back in the school, and then Edward takes my hand. I freeze.

I didn't want to go public right now because of what was happening. I glare at him what the fuck Autumn looks at me with so much sadness I want to hug her but Edward hold me tightly as he walk to my class.

Autumn

So  they are dating damn I would have owned Roseanne five dollars she would be smirking and say, "I told you so," as Paul laughed and high-five her. Tears in my eyes I can't breathe, my heart  starts to race. I feel like my world is spinning out of control. I can't hear anything as my world goes out of force. I got out of my chair, walked  out of the class, and leaned on the wall, and then I slid down. I buried my face between my knees. I can't breathe, and then I feel cold hands cupping my face, pulling my face away from my knees.

They are wiping my tears that when I realize I have been crying, "breathe, sweetness, breathe." I hear Emmett saying I look at him, I can't breathe.

 

"Breathe in and out," he says as he moves his chest up and down slowly. I repeat it, "Good sweetness." I did that a couple of times.

I throw myself in his arms, and he hugs me tightly. "It okay, I am here, Ausie."

I sob. "It hurts Emmett. Everything is reminding me of her" he kiss the side of my head.

"I know, Ausie." he rubs my back , takes a deep breath, and slowly lets go and pulls away. He wipes my tears away.

"You are okay now?" He ask softly.

I look at him."I don't know honestly Emmett" he nods and helps me up and pulls me in another hug.

"I got you." He says gently, I close my eyes and take a deep breath.

"Thank you, Emmett," I murmurs, he kissed the top of my head.

"I am always here for you, sweetness." He responds, I smile and squeeze him tightly.

We walk back in the class, and everyone gives me sympathy smiles. I sigh and sit by Emmett. He keeps his arm around my waist while he rubs my back. I lean my head on his shoulder. I don't know what I would do without him. Class ends, and Rosalie waited for us at the door she wraps me in a hug.

"Thank you," I say quietly, she smiles softly.

"Are you okay, honey?" She asks softly. I take a deep breath.

"Yeah." I know that they know it is a lie. I just lost my best friend so violently.

I went to the funeral place and see Quil yelling I walk to him I lay my hand on his shoulder he turns he was ready to yell at me he stop himself and before my eyes his face falls apart I grab him and hold him tightly as he sobbing in my arms.

"I just want her funeral to beautiful and perfect" he raps out I hold him tightly.

"I know Quil I know" I say brokenly, the funeral planner has tears in her eyes.

"I am not supposed to plan her funeral. Me and Roseanne should be planning our wedding together fighting over the favor of the cake, " he says brokenly.

I close my eyes and hold him tightly.

"I am so sorry, Quil." I cry out. He cries in my arms. We end up on the floor by now, and the planner gives us privacy.

"It hurts so Autumn so much I can't breathe. It is like a part of me die with her, " he says as he curls his body around me.  "Why now?!?!? WHY WE JUST TALKED ABOUT OUR DREAM WEDDING!!!" he screams out I hold him tightly.

"Why is Sam and Paul and Jared ignoring us?" Quil ask brokenly."I need them, and they not here."

That made me sob."I don't know, " he hugs me tightly. I feel someone watching us. I look at the widow where I see figure standing. I can't tell who it is, but something is telling it one of the boys. I sigh and lean my forehead against his.

"We have each other, Quil. We will get through this together." he nods and kisses my forehead. He lay his forehead on my I close my eyes as he takes a deep breath.

"Thank you Ausie" he whisper hoarsely. I smile and pull away.

"you're my best friend Quily" I raps out, he smiles weakly at me.

As I finally got home around 8 pm, I ran some errands and went to the library to study little. I park my car and see Jacob bike. I close my eyes. I took a deep breath and got out and went in the house. I see Collin sleeping in Dad's lap on the couch. And went to them and cup Collin face and rub my thumb cross his cheek. He leans in my touch "Ausie" he says, sleepy. I smile and kiss his cheek.

"Hey, buddy." I say quietly he snuggles deeper in dad's arms, who smile softly at him. Dad grabs my hand and squeezes it comforting, which has tears in my eyes.

"Love you, baby girl." I am trying so hard not to cry.

"Love you more, dad." he smiles softly and lets my hand go. I went to the bathroom and changed into pj's. I walk in my room and see Jacob sitting on the bed waiting for me. I just broke. He rushes to me and hugs me tightly as I fall apart in his arms. I can't stop crying. My heart and soul hurts so deeply I can't breathe.

"Breathe moonlight, I am here it okay?" I hug him so tightly and sob. He adds in. "Shhh it okay" He says gently and kisses the top of my head.

"It hurts so much Jake" he hums as I continue, "she had one day to be 17" I sob "one more year and she could have married Quil" I hear him starting to cry. We end up on the floor crying together.

"I miss her so much too," Jake says, hiccuping I hold him tightly. "The group doesn't feel the same without her." I nodded. God, why her why our Rosa. We lay foreheads against each other, taking deep breaths. Jacob cups my face and leans back and wraps my tears away. I hear a knock on the door.

"C- come in," I say shaky. Bella comes in and sits on the floor and gives us water. And pull us in a hug she kiss my forehead.

"I am always here for you sweet Autumn" she says sweetly.

I smile weakly "thank you Bell" she smiles and hugs me again and walks out.

Jacob, pick me up and lay me on the bed. I lay my head on his chest and listen to his heartbeat, then hear gut-wrenching howls. With that, I fell asleep.

I woke up panting and then saw Edward staring down at me with narrow eyes. Heart pick-up speed. I blinked he was gone, but that didn't make me  relax.

"Moonlight, what wrong?" I am breathing heavily. I am gone insane. "Baby, look at me." he turns my head towards him. I let out a shaky breath.

"I swear Jacob I saw Edward in here." I say shaky. He looks at me like I am not crazy.

"Are you sure?" I swallow  and nod as my body shakes he hugs me tightly and pulls me away and goes over to my window, and sure enough grease oil is on my window frames.

He growls "Jake" I say shaky, and he pulls me in a hug. "shhh it's okay, you are safe now." I close my eyes. And fall back to sleep.

It had been six days after we found her. Six days of not hearing from Sam and Paul and Jared. I am so mad at them they left us when we needed them most!! I sigh as me and Luan  Kim and Bella go over how the cemetery goes. Kim has tears in her eyes.

"We shouldn't be planning this!" Kim say sharply.

I close my eyes, "I know."

Bella hugs me tightly as I see Zach and Embry talking to each other. I can hear what they are saying even though they are on the other side of the room and my heart stop moving.

"Quil is isolating himself he not talking to me, Zach. We are so close that we see each other as brothers." Zach looks at him.

"Do think he is hurting himself?" Zach ask desperately.

Embry looks pained. "I don't know, but I feel like he is thinking about killing himself."

My eyes widened. "We need to check on him, Zach." Zach nodded. Embry, come over and hug Luna.

"We will be back. We are going to check on Quil." Embry says and Luna nods. "Love you," he kissed her forehead.

"Love you more." With that, they leave.

With my heart in my throat I need to see he is okay "wait I am coming with you guys" they look at me.

"Stay here with the girls we will let you know" Zach says and I nodded. I sigh as I look at Kim she is so mad at Jared for ignoring her. I hug her.

"He will be here for the funeral." I say we know he probably won't. I understand that the boys needed space, but they haven't even called or texted us at all. Emily is falling into a deep depression. Roseanne was like a baby sister she never had. And Sam left her all alone.

Funeral

I took a deep breath as I walked with Jacob by my side. I was wearing a black dress that had a black flower pattern. I see Emmett and Rosalie first they walk to us and Rosalie pull me in a hug she cold but I don't care "I am so sorry honey" I hug her tightly.

"She liked you guys." I rely to them. Emmett smiles sadly they didn't hang out with Roseanne that much, but when they do, Emmett had so much fun with her. And Rosalie she helps her with make-up. I swallow I just to have another meltdown.

I feel like I am losing my control. Emmett pulled me in his arms. I hear Rosalie and Jacob talking when I feel tiny arms around my waist. I look down and see Collin. He has been crying. "Oh Collie," I hug him.

"I miss her," Collin cries out.

A tear ran down my face. "I do too." Jacob picks him up in his arms as Collin cries softly. Rosalie  at him with sadness. Emmett wrapped his arms around her. I meet up with Quil in front of the room he looks so lost I sit by him and hug him close to me.

He choke out "I was about to ended  my life Autumn" I freeze. Then he adds in quietly "but Zach and Embry stop me just in time" tears running down my face "it hurts so much Autumn I can't breathe" I kiss the back of his hand.

"Please don't leave me too, Quil. I need you. " he looks at me and hugs me tightly.

"I am glad they stop me." He murmurs I hug him tightly.

The priest walks in front, and being his speech, "Roseanne Emerson was an angel on the earth. She lights up the room she walks in. She was taken away from us too early, but god needed her now, and I just know she is a guiding angel now. " Daisy Roseanne mom sob as Blake, her oldest brother, hold her. I can't breathe it all too real. I block him out as I stare at her coffin it is beautiful, and it is white with all different types of roses. Then I feel someone touching my arm. I look up and see Joseph the priest in front of me.

"If you don't want to then you don't have to give a speech" I take a deep breath and got up with the help of Joseph I walk  to the stand I look around Jessica and Angela, Mike and Eric, Tyler sits by Bella. Luna and Zach, Kim and Embry, and Emily are sitting by Quil as Jacob hugs Quil as he cries. Then my eyes lay on a group in the back corner. They have baseball hats on with  sunglasses.

I swallow. I shake my head. "Roseanne, aka my Rosa, she was everyone sunshine. She makes everyone feel loved and cared for she literally wanted to be an ER nurse to help heal people to be there for people when they needed someone the most. She was my soul sister. When my sister Bella lifted me, she helped me pick up my broken heart and put me back together. And now there is a hole in my heart that will be fix" I say then I take a deep and shake my head.

"Her and Quil were the it couple they been together for six years Quil already had her engagement ring. Hell she had a list of baby names" tears running down my face I push through, "she always wanted a family with Quil and have her babies call me auntie" then I feel this need to talk directly at Sam and Paul and Jared because she wanted her kids to call Sam and paul and Jared uncles. They were like her brothers.

"Sam, Paul, Jared, if you are here, she loved you so much. Paul, she was the first person who literally took her time to understand you and help you with your anger issues. People see you like a ticking time boom, but she sees a boy who never felt safe and loved. And I took you in and gave you a safe, warm place to call home! And you been ignoring them they just didn't lose their baby girl, but they lost a boy they call a  son!" I hear a choke sob from the group in the corner.

"Jared, you were like an annoying brother she had to deal in school. She would be proud of you when you passed the math test because she knew how hard math is for you. She would understand why you were not here but me. I can't understand why! We can grieve together asshole!" I yelled I can't breathe fuck my heart is breaking and they not here to hold me as a fall apart. I want to scream!

"And Sam, you are like her second big brother she loved for fuck sakes you babysitted her . You were her safe place when Blake isn't here! And now he is suffering alone because the guy he finds comfort in is ignoring him! And now you not here when he needs you the most when I NEED YOU THE MOST WHEN QUIL NEED YOU THE MOST!! We fucking need you and you not here" I sobbing at this point "WHY ROSEANNE WHY HER!!" I scream and fall on the floor Jacob rush to me and hold me as I break down. I can't breathe I buried my face in Jacob chest and scream and sob. I hear people sobbing.

Then all sudden it started to storm the roaring of the thunder calls to my soul. Everything feels unreal Jacob hugs me tightly. "It hurts so much part of my soul is gone" I choke out Quil walk to me and pull me in his arms and we hold each other tightly. We stay like that for awhile until I got my emotions under control. It is just raining now no thunder or lightning. Just pouring rain.

I swallow "I am sorry" I say to Joseph he shakes his head.

"No need to apologize" he smiles softly at me I nodded.

Quil didn't want to make a speech but then he says "Roseanne was my sunshine and I don't know if I will ever find the light again" I hold his hand he looks at me with a broken expression. "But at least I have her best friend who will do anything to keep her spirit alive" a tear ran down my face.

Quil got down and help me up with Jacob we went back to our sits let  Joseph finish.

We are outside to buried her. Everyone throw roses on her coffin. Collin hugs Quil who hug him back "I miss her too Quily" Quil give him a sad smile "you are the reason she wanted kids so you can be a cousin" Quil says brokenly. Rosalie made a choking sound.

5 hours later

Everyone went their separate places. Bella is with the Cullens and Jacob took Collin back to his place Collin was physically and emotionally exhausted. Dad is at a bar to drown out the pain and me I went home. I stare at my bed.

"Roseanne shut up" she laughs "you do have the biggest crush on Jake just ask him out" I threw my pillow at her.

"SHUT UP ROSEANNE!!" Dad come in with a annoyed expression.

"Girls keep it down I am trying to sleep." We laugh he roll his eyes "Go to Sam and Emily house go bother them!"

Rosa smile sweetly "but who will bother you daddy Charlie" he roll his eyes.

"Lord give me strength" we laugh at his pain.

Tears in my eyes I look at the pictures of her and my family and friends smiling and and laughing and just broke.

Sam

We been watching over our family from a far because we don't trust ourselves to shift and hurt them. It is literally so painful to watching Emily sobbing in our bed every night by herself but I can't risk hurting her. Paul been shifting more and more because the grief. I sigh as I watch Autumn when I hear Paul and Jared coming up to me.

"How is Luna?" I ask Paul sighs.

"She been writing in her journal" I nodded.

"and how is Kim?" I ask Jared glares at me.

"She won't stop calling me and fill my voice box" I nodded. We watch Autumn staring at her bed then all suddenly. She takes her pictures and throw them on the floor and then grab her cup and smash in the the ground she screams and screams we hear each screams.

"WHY HER WHY NOW!!". She punch her wall hard it left a hole on the wall.

"SHE NEEDS US SAM!! WE NEED  TO GO IN THERE AND HOLD HER!!" Paul yelled at me as we watch Autumn She takes a other cup and smash it.

"YOU THINK I DONT WANT TO HOLD HER?!?! I do I babysitted her when she was little! But we can't go near her until we can control our shifting!" I yelled Jared has tears running down his face.

"She need us Sam. She believes we abandoned her"  I did the only thing I can do, I text Bella.

Me:
Autumn needs you right now

Bells:
Fuck you honestly. You left her when she needed you the most and now you dare to text me now after 8 DAYS OF RADIO SILENCE!!!

Me:
It for the better I am sorry Bells

Bells:
How asshole she having so many breakdowns and more and you and Paul and Jared are not there for her!

Me:
I am sorry just please go home and check on her please

We waited until Bella come to the house and hold Autumn as she sobs "Why did they leave me Bella" at that I shifted and run into woods howling the most gut wrenching howl. Paul and Jared join in I hope Autumn knows by those howling we are there for her.

Paul

I watch Emerson home in my wolf form Daisy sit on the couch holding Roseanne favorite stuffed Rabbit even though she was 16 she couldn't sleep without it. I see John walking towards her and bent down and cup her face "she was too young Johnny" she says brokenly.

"I know baby I know" she sobs he hold on to her.

After awhile "where Paul" she ask so brokenly I let out a whimper. I want to run in there and hug them tightly. I miss them so much it hurts but I don't trust myself.

"I don't know, Daisy, but  he will come back to us when he is ready. You know how he is," she takes a deep breath.

"I miss him Johnny so much it hurts." John sighs and kisses her forehead.

"I miss him too he is like a son to me." I whimper again, and I feel tears in my eyes. I miss you guys too so much it hurts. Then Blake got out of  his truck and looked at me straight into my eyes. I feel this snap between us it nothing like imprinting it, something deeper and stronger. He is my soul brother.

He breaths heavily "I know it you Paul" I freeze how does he know.

"I see the same wolf over and over again and never attacks us or anything just sit and watch us" I let out a whiny. He walks to me. I back up. I don't want to hurt him.

"You won't hurt me, Paul." I back away, and he sighs "Paul please don't leave." I lay down on the ground, and he moved and sat by me. I lay my head on his lap.

"I miss you, Paul, so much it hurts." I let out a sigh, and he pets my head. I close my eyes, feeling at peace for once.

"Paul?" Sam asks through the pack bond

"I found my soul brother," I say

"Who is it?" Jared asks

"Blake, and he  knows I am a werewolf," I say

"How??" Sam, ask

"He see the same wolf aka me and connect the dots," I say

With that, I block them out and just soak up the moment with Blake. He sighs, "Please don't ignore me again, please." I look at him and nod.

"Thank you for watching over us, Paul." I close my eyes. "Shift back, please." I got up and went behind the tree and shifted back and put on my shorts.

I walk back to Blake he pull me in a hug and I broke "I am so sorry Blake I have to keep my distance I still having problems with controlling shifting" he hugs me tightly.

"I know you won't hurt me" he says softly I cry in his arms.

"I was there at the funeral." Blake looks at me.

"I know," Blake smiles. "I am not a detective for nothing." I laugh, and he smiles. He is 26 years old and he is the best detective in the world.

"Can you tell Daisy and John I will see them when I have figure out somethings" I say brokenly he nods.

"yeah and get the vampires who took my baby sister" he tells me with venom in his voice I nodded.

"we won't stop until they are dead and how do you know they are real?"I ask him. He sighs.

"I saw her body. No animal could do that, and I grew up in rez and heard the stories, and I always had a feeling they were real." Blake says, I nodded. I hear Sam howling making Blake smile.

"Go I will be okay." He says softly, I nod and hug him.

"I miss you, Blake." he smiles and hugs me tightly.

"I miss you more, Paul. Be safe, okay? " I nodded and lay my forehead to his.

Take my shorts off and shifted ran towards Sam direction.

Chapter Text

I look at Autumn sleeping peacefully. It has been 2 months since Roseanne's death. We still haven't heard from Sam and Paul and Jared. Two months of raining non-stop. Two months of Autumn try to get hold of Paul to give him his 19 birthday gift, but no luck. Which hurt lot. Two months of the group didn't feel the same since Roseanne death. She was our light, and now she is gone. The light left us. I sigh and hold on to Autumn tightly. Embry up and left us all suddenly. Quil didn't take it well he shut down, but he was still holding to me and Autumn so tightly scared of us leaving him. Not in a million years, I sigh and kiss the top of Autumn head she snuggles deeper into my arms, making me smile.

I hear little footsteps coming to my room I smile as Collin opens my door "hey buds" he looks so sleepy.

"Can't sleep" he says rubbing his eyes as he holds the teddy bear me and Autumn give him. I open my arms.

"Come here, buds." I say yawning he smiles sleepy and gets in between me, Autumn. "Better?" He nods and yawns. Autumn wraps her arms around him. She loves this little boy to death. I kiss each of their forehead.

"Good night, Collie." I say gently as he lay his head on my chest.

"Good night, Jake." I smile and kiss his forehead.

I wake up, it is raining, then it stops all sudden when I hear laughing. I raise my eyebrows that is strange. I walk in the kitchen and smile at the scene. Billy is helping Collin make pancakes as Autumn is helping Brady make cinnamon rolls. Collin has pancake mix on his nose, and Autumn and Brady are covered in flour. I take pictures smiling "JAKEEEEE" Collin yells excitedly and ran to me I pick him up "I made pancakes with pops" dad has tears in his eyes.

"I can see that buddy"I say, Brady smiles at me.

"Good morning, Jake" Brady beams. I went to him and hug him.

"good morning, Brady" I say back. He has become part of our little family.

Quil calls us BlackSwan, which made me smile. I am glad Collin and Brady feel loved and cared and, most importantly, feeling safe with us. Dad smiles softly and says "You guys are going to be amazing parents." I smile, kiss the top of Collin's head, he giggles.

My god, this kid means the world to me. Then Autumn favorite song come on her smile widened and pulls Brady hand and they start to dance. Then she pulled my hand as dad danced in his wheelchair. We are laughing, and they are not fake.

For the first time, I see light coming back in my family eyes again. Collin keeps asking where are Sam and Paul and Jared and Embry . He miss them so much it I shake my head and smile as my boys laugh as Autumn grab the mixing spoon. She starts to sing into it and spinning around grab my hand I left her arm in the air and spin her around. She is smiling so bright it was like sunshine. Dad smiles has tears in his eyes. After everyone calms down. We got ready to eat.

"Jake, do you think they would be come to my birthday party?" Collin ask sadly his birthday is coming up in three months he is still holding on to hope they will show up, especially Paul. Him and paul were so close when Paul stopped coming around it hurt Collin. He looks up at Paul as a big brother.

"I don't know, sweet boy," Autumn says with tears in her eyes. Collin lips wobbles. I pull him in my lap and hug him tightly.

"We are here, buds, and we will never leave you," I declare.

He smiles "promise" he say.

I smile and nodded "I promise," I say, he smiles. Autumn was on her phone texting and smiling.

"Collin and Brady, would you want to go to the lake with Charlie?" She ask Collin nods so fast.

"Yes!" Brady says, making me smile

"Dad do you want to come?" I ask He shakes his head.

"No, I have plans with Quil Senior," he rely.

I nodded "Alright" I say and smile.

"I am going to invite Daisy and John and Michael and Leo and Blake," Autumn says as she texts on her phone. I nodded it been while since we talked to them. I understand they needed space, but it hurt like hell not seeing them. Especially Leo, he is one year older than us. We closer to him than Michael and Blake. We know them, but we are closer to Leo because how close in age we are.

We arrived at the lake. Collin took off and yelled "PAPA " As Charlie catches him, I see Seth with a girl with wavy hair with light brown skin. She stay by his side she looks around look like she has never been around a group that is full of life. Autumn takes a deep breath and lets out a sigh.

"You good moony?" I ask she takes my hand and nods.

"For the first, I feel lighter." She speaks softly I cup her face and kiss her softly.

"Good, I miss your warm smiles," I say she smiles, and I swear the sun shines brighter. We walk to the ground Zach hugs Autumn, who relaxes in his arms.

I pull Quil in my arms he wraps his arms around me. "You good?" I ask him.

"I can't sleep without seeing her -" he cuts himself off.

I nodded. If I could, I would have taken his pain. Then I see John and Daisy walking towards us. Luna runs towards they smile at her as she throw herself in their arms. Seth walks towards us with the girl looking at us with worrieness "Layla this Autumn and her boyfriend Jacob," she waved at us shyly.

Autumn smiles and says "Don't be scared, we won't bite." Layla laughs.

I see Blake and Michael and Leo coming towards us. Leo has a soccer ball. He throws it to me I smile "ready to lose Black!" He shouts.

I smirk and retort back "nah you get ready together lose Emerson" at that me and the older boys play soccer as Charlie and Harry teaches Collin and Brady how to fish. As the girls welcome Layla, she looks more relaxed.

"Shit, I have to leave," Bella says as she looks at her phone. Leah looks at her as Bella plays with her hair.

"Is everything okay?" Leah ask.

Bella nods "yes, just forgot I have plans with Edward."

Leah looks sad Bella hugs her "hey, we still going to the movie on Saturday" Bella tells Leah who smiles at her and nods Bella got up from the ground and went to her truck. I look at Leah, who glares at me.

"Shut up!" She snaps.

I put my hands in the air."I didn't say anything."

 

She glares at me.

"I know what you were thinking." She growls I look at her. With rasie eyebrows.

Collin ran towards me with a fish in his arms. "LOOK WHAT I CATCH" Collin yells making me smile.

"Wow, that is a big fish buds." I say, he smiles bigger as Brady watches us.

"Collin, we need to put the fish back in the water," Harry says. Collin nods and walks back to Charlie and Harry.

I look over to Kim, who watches the waves with a sad look. Autumn wraps her arms around her. Then I see Embry hiding behind the bushes. I walk towards him he see me and back away and starts to run away I run towards him "WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON EMBRY!" He stop and looks at me with so much sadness and pain I want hug him.

"Why the hell are you avoiding us and stalking us at the same time!" He looks at me.

"It for the best Jake" he looks pained as he says that.

"How?!? Quil is isolating himself it was a miracle that he come to the lake today and Autumn cries herself to sleep and Luna she believes you never loved her" at that tears rolling down his face.

"I do love her Jacob so much it hurts" he breaths heavily.

I narrow my eyes "then come with me and hung out" Shot back.

He shakes his head. "I can't Jacob."

my temper is getting at me "Why?!??" He looks at me with sadness.

"To keep everyone safe" I shake my head he close his eyes then he adds "I miss you guys so much it hurts but I have stay away to keep you safe."

I shake my head I back away from him he looks like he was about to say something but he turns around and leaves that when I saw Jared staring at Kim tears running down his face then leaves with Embry. I sigh and take a deep breath and walk back to the group. Michael and Zach are fighting playfully. I sigh as Autumn grabs my hand.

"What moony?" I ask as she smiles.

"Let's swim." She says playfully.

I smile and take my shirt off and grab her. Her eyes widened. "PUT ME DOWN!!" She yelled. Quil looks over and smiles as Zach laughs at Autumn despair. As I run on the deck, "JACOB NO!!" Then I jump in the air as she screams."WHY COULDN'T WE DO A CUTE LAKE MOMENT ASSHAT!!" I hear Leah laughing.

We swim around, and she tries to donk me in the water, which makes me laugh. Collin, come in. I smile as he swims to us effortlessly. I grab him, "Look at you buds." he smiles.

"I did it all by myself!" Collin yells excitedly.

Brady smiles like a proud big brother and swims to behind Autumn, then donk her in the water. She pops up and glares at him."You little shit!" He laughs and swims away with Autumn behind him. I laugh this little family is everything to me.

We sit on the deck as Emily comes over with foods. She has scars on her face she said it was from an animal attack. Shit is getting weird and weirder each day. I sigh and take a sandwich and take a bite man she makes the best sandwiches. Autumn walks to me and sits in my lap as we watch Leo and Brady eat with collin, who is talking about something. I look over and see Blake on his phone smiling like a love sick fool.

"Who is the lucky guy?" I ask he freezes.

"What?" He ask and I smile.

"You are smiling like a fool. Who is it?" I repeat.

He sighs."He doesn't understand his feelings for me,"

I frown "Blake-" he shakes his head.

"I will wait for him. I don't care how long it takes." He responds.

I sigh. I don't want to see Blake hurt. "Just be careful, okay?" He smiles at me.

"I will be okay. " I nodded as Collin came over to me and climbs in my lap and lay his head on my chest and he yawns.

"Tired buds?" He nods making me laugh. Layla smiles softly at us as Seth says something to her.

"You and Autumn are his parents" Harry says as him and Charlie come over to us with beers in their hands

"what" I ask confused.

He points at Collin who is sleeping in my lap. Then sits in the chairs. "He seek you and Autumn out when he scare or overwhelm and Tired" Harry says I shake my head.

"Yes, Billy has custody of him but collin see you and Autumn as his parents" Charlie says smiling. I hug the little boy tightly.

"He means the world to us." I say and kiss the top of his head.

Seth and Layla come over and sits next to me "I hear you like to carved out wood" Layla says.

I nodded "yeah it my favorite thing to do to pass time and fix cars" I answer her.

s
She smiles shyly "I love make jewelry I was wondering if we can work on something together" she says shyly I smile warmly at her.

"I would love to Layla" I say warmly.

Seth smiles at her "I told you he would say yes pretty girl" Seth' says blushes hard. I laugh.

"Damn Seth you are smooth as fuck there" Quil says making me laugh.

"Where did my baby brother go" Leah says Seth face heated.

Autumn laughs "yet his face will reddened at every thing" he shave her.

"Shut up" Seth snaps. Kim laughs at Seth redded face. I just wish that everyone was here at this moment. Roseanne would be teasing him with Paul. Sam would roll his eyes say "I am 25 and surrounded by children" as Jared would say "the innocent one is going on the dark side" god it hurts so much that they are not here.

I take a breath, and things are not adding up. The first Autumn ran in the woods during school and felt her house shake. Then Sam and Jared and Paul left. The weather goes along with Autumn emotions. Then Embry he won't just up and leave us without any warning, then Emily got attacked by an animal. This is not normal. Something is happening. I sigh as Autumn lays her head on my shoulder. I kiss her lips softly. She smiles lazily at me.

Layla is wrapped in Seth arms I smile at them. God, they are so cute, puppy love. Michael and Leo are wrestling with each other as John and Daisy talk to Harry and Charlie. If five other people join in, I would've felt whole. Collin flinch in his sleep. I cup back of his head. "Shhh, it okay you are safe baby boy," I rub his back. He stopped moving.

Harry smiles and says"See you are his dad" I smile and hug my boy tightly.

Today drain me, yes, I had so much fun I just so tired. I fell on my bed and yawn. I sent good night moonlight text and fall to sleep.

Chapter Text

Bella is with Edward today. I wish she would have stayed and eaten breakfast with me and dad. I sigh and eat my pancakes. I look at dad. "Dad?" He looks up.

"Yes, baby girl," he answers me.

I take a deep breath. "How did you adopt me like where did I come from?"I ask.

He sits up straighter. "I never ask because I never wanted you to think I never love you as a dad." I say softly.

He smiles softly. He takes a deep breath and sighs. "I found you in an abandoned house," He says, gently grabbing my hand and squeezing it comforting.

He continues, "You were wrapped up in warm clothes and black blanket." he pauses, "Hold on, I still have them." He got up and walked to his room. Come back after 5 minutes he hands me a box "it has all the things you had on."

I open it as he continues talking "you were well feed and healthy" he says as I take out a  black blanket with V like symbol with a shield in the middle with two trees and two crows in the shield. I ran my finger on the symbol.

"I tried to figure out who put you in the abandoned house, but I couldn't find anything. It was like fate put you there for me  to find you." With tears in my eyes, I look up at him.

"You are my daughter Autumn I didn't created you but in my heart and soul you are my baby girl" tears running down my face I pick up the white baby outfit one piece with baby deer with flowers that was so soft with a hat that was handmade.

Then I picked up the jacket shape like a teddy bear it was so soft. "Why did my biological parents left me if I was healthy and well took care of" I ask so brokenly "I wasn't good enough for them to keep me" I add in with tears running down my face.

At that, dad got up and bent down to my level and cup my face. "Baby girl, you are good enough. I love you so much Ausie it hurts seeing you crying," he says as he wipes  my tears away. I hug him tightly, and he rubs my back.

"Why would they leave me in an abandoned house?" He sighs and kisses my forehead.

"I don't know. I wish I knew. " He responds, I hug him tightly. I hear someone coming in, and it's Zach and see my tears, and go to me.

"What is going on?" He asks as I wipe my tears away and get out of the chair with shaking legs.  Dad helped me find my footing.

I take a deep breath "dad told me how he found me" Zach looks at me with sympathy and pull me in a hug.

"They just left me without a second thought" I say brokenly Zach hugs me tightly

"I am so sorry Ausie" I nodded and hold him tightly. I feel dad wrapping his arms around us, which made me smile. I sigh and pull away.

"I need to get ready. I need to go to the cafe to meet Roselie." I say.

Dad nods and kisses my forehead. I took the baby blanket with me for some reason it gives me comfort. I dress in skinny jeans with long sleeves with dark red and light pink, light brown soft blue stripes. And put a warm brown bow in my hair. I look at the symbol on the blanket. It looks so familiar, but I can't remember why.

I got out of my car and walk in the café Roselie smiles at me and pull me in a hug "how are you feeling honey" she ask softly.

I sigh and take a sip of tea she got me "I found out that my biological parents abandoned me in a abandoned house" I say was sadness "like I was nothing" I add bitterly.

Roselie grab my hand "they missing out you are incredible girl" I smile at her "thank you Rose" she pull me in a hug and kiss the top of my head her lips are cold.

"Let get some homework done." I nodded, Roselie been helping me with  psychology.

My gut twisted. I feel like someone is watching me. I look around my my heart racing. I feel like my veins are on fire. Roselie looks at me worriedly "Autumn is everything okay?" I am paralyzed. I hear RUN RUN RUN in my head. I grab my hair and pull it. It has been a while since I heard voices and feeling like my veins are on fire after Roseanne death. "Autumn!" Rosalie is in front of me. I can't breathe. All I want to do is scream RUN DANGER IS HERE  I grab on Rosalie she holds onto me. "Breathe Honey, breathe," but I can't. I grab my throat.

Then my head snapped to the woods from hearing hushed voices. "It can't be -" my eyes lock on a black man standing by a redhead whose eyes widen open, staring right at me. I squeeze Roselie arms so tightly she made a pain sound. I look at her and see pure shock on her beautiful face. Like I shouldn't be able to cause her pain. She recovers and pulls out her phone and calls Jacob.

"Jacob, where are you?" pause "Autumn is having another episode," she sighs. "I will keep Collin company," she nods. "See you in 3 minutes," she hangs up.

"Autumn deep breaths." I rub my throat I can't without wanting to scream. I feel my hands shaking "Autumn please take a deep breath for me, please," Roselie pleads.

Then Jacob push Roselie gently away from me and bends down to my level and cup my face in his strong warm hands everything stop no more feeling the need to scream my veins don't feel like they are on fire. I look at his beautiful dark brown eyes I call home. I  take a deep breath he smiles "that it Moonlight take a other deep breath" I did he rubs  my cheeks  with his thumbs I let out a shaky breath.

"I am losing my mind," I say weakly with tears in my eyes. He kisses my forehead.

"You not losing your mind. Take a deep breath." He tells me.

I did a couple times "there you go, moonlight. " I hug him tightly. Then I feel arms around my hip. I look down and see Collin, I smile.

"Are you okay, Ausie?" I smile softly at him.

"I am now Collie," I tell me he smiles at me I take a deep breath. Roselie look at with worrieness.

"I have to go" I raise my eyebrow "what wrong Rose" she sighs heavily as I ask that.

"I need to talk to Carlisle about something" she says I nodded sadly "I am sorry honey" and she took off.

Collin looks at me with the biggest smile. "Can we go to park?" He asks so sweetly I smile at him.

"Of course, sweet boy. " Jacob took my hand and kissed the back of it.

"Are you okay?" He asks as Collin climbs in back in Jacob truck.

"I don't know, honestly." I say he pulls me in his strong, warm arms and holds me there. "Dad told me how he adopted me," I add quietly with tears in my eyes.

"They just left me in an abandoned house without a second thought," I say brokenly he hold me tightly. "Dad kept all the things I had on me." I take a deep breath.

"They made sure I warm, but I still wasn't good enough to keep." Jacob kissed the top of my head.

"You are more than good enough to keep." He says I smile a weak smile. I pull away he cup my face I lean in his touch.

"I love you so much moonlight it hurts to see you in pain" Jacob says as he kiss my forehead I lay my hands on his hips. "No matter what, I will always love you," a tear ran down my face.

"I love you, Jacob, so much more than you ever know." he shakes his head. "No, I love you more." I glare at him. "Nah, I love you the most!" He laughs and kisses attack my face, making me laugh.

We got to the park. I saw my girls Luna and Kim and saw Layla. I smiled. I invited her to come to the park she said she would think about. I frown Quil isn't here Zach look at me with sadness I went to him "he is isolating himself again" he says when I reach to him. Fuck  where the hell  is Embry.

"I will go to his house after this and talk to him" I say and he nods and says "it hurts seeing him like this."

I nodded. "I know Zach" he takes a deep breath and went over where Jacob and Collin are playing around at.

"Where is Seth and Leah?" I ask the girls.

"Seth is at his lacrosse practice and Leah is at work" Layla says as she looks at the boys playing with other kids.

"So you and Seth" Kim says smirking Layla blushes.

"We just friends I have a boyfriend" I raise my eyebrow.

"Girlie the way you were with him yesterday I thought you two were seeing each other" I say smirking she blushes.

"He was warm" Luna give her oh please look. She sighs "I just-"

"Feel safe with him" Luna says Layla nods.

We sit at a picnic table as we go over plans for Collin birthday party "he is a hug Star War fan I mean he wants his room to like one of the Star war ship"I say Layla laughs as she paint my nails with light pink color.

"My baby cousin is just like that she loves I mean loves Luke Skywalker" I smile and at my nails smiles and blow on them.

"Collin loves Han Solo he is his favorite character and Brady love Leia" I murmurs Layla smiles as she starts doing Kim nails with the same color.

"We need to set a date for them to meet" Layla says laughing. I nodded then I hear Layla phone chime. She briefly look at and turns her phone around and finishing Kim so she can do Luna's nails.

"The boys would love having a other friend who loves Star Wars" I say her smile grow bigger.

"They can meet at Collin birthday party" Layla says as she finish Luna nails who smiles and kiss Layla cheeks.

"That will be perfect" Kim says. 

Layla sighs as she look at her phone that been blowing up with text messages "is everything okay?" Luna ask.

"My boyfriend is blowing up my phone" I frown and ask "why is he blowing your phone up?" She looks scared or something.

"Just worried about me" she whispers. Me and Luna and Kim exchange looks.

"Sweet girl, he knew you will be with us" I say she shakes her head.

"I know it just he wants updates" she tries to conceive us.

Luna looks at her worriedly and softly says "I been there before and Layla you need to get out" Layla has tears in her eyes.

"I can't just leave him" Luna hold her hand.

"Listen to me you will find someone who will love you the way you deserve" Layla says with tears in her eyes that when Zach walk towards us and frowns.

"Hey are you okay?" He ask.

Layla smiles softly "yeah I just need to go to my boyfriend home."

Zach raise his eyebrows and check his watch "you only been here for 40 minutes."

We look at her "i know I know but Trevor needs me" Zach raise his eyebrow.

"Lay-" he started but she stop him "I need to go" and grab her things and ran to her bicycle and took off. We look at each other

"What the fuck" Kim says.

Zach sighs "do you think..." we all have the same question is she being abuse.

"I will talk to my dad," I say. Zach looks so mad and sad I grab his forearm and rub it.

"Hey, she isn't Willow. She has us now and we will get her out" I speak softy Zach looks so broken Willow was killed by her ex boyfriend. She was his friend at work who he cared and loved. His father was the one who found her body.

It destroyed Zach he quit his job because it was too painful to work there. His old boss understands and help him find a different job. I pull him in my arms.

"She will not have the same ending as Willow" I say quietly he nods. Collin runs to him as Jacob tries to catch him.

"AUSIE HELPP!!" I laugh as he get behind me "save me" I laugh "you are safe" Jacob glares at me.

"He put dirt in my shorts!" We laugh so hard that Zach had to grip the picnic table. "He is so lucky that I love him" Collin giggles then touch his arm.

"TAG YOU'RE IT!!" He yells and took off we look Jacob ran. I look behind me and see Jacob I run faster but he grab my arm "got you" I stare up at him he kiss me. "You're it" he let's go and run.

We lay under a tree catching our breath. I hear a whimpering sound I turn and see a huge black wolf behind a tree in the woods howling the fuck can I see that far away. The wolf looks straight at me then I feel something snap in me. I feel this overwhelming feeling of safetiness and calm washing over me like I know this wolf will protect me from everything will do anything for me. The wolf looks so torn between coming towards me or stay in the woods. I close my eyes and take a deep breath. I turn away and lay my head on Jacob's shoulder he wraps a arm around me.

Collin wants to spend the night at my place he says he miss pops which made me smile. As we head to our cars Zach pull me in a hug "let me know how he is doing" I nodded. He let go and goes to his car. Collin goes to Jacob truck.

Collin needs to grab somethings before coming to my house. "It like we are divorce parents sharing custody" he says.

  I laugh at that "RIGHT?!!?" I say laughing so hard I can't breathe. He laughs with me as I say "god I can't wait when we are 18 so we can have our own home."

He smiles "me too moonlight" he kiss my lips softly.

I arrived at Quil home seeing his dad car in the driveway I got out and before I even knock Mato open the door "Hey Ausie, he is in his room" I nodded I hug him.

"I tried everything" he says brokenly. I hug him tightly.

"I know Mato" I say as he takes a deep breath and let me go.

I walk in his room and oh my god it is a mess he lay on his dirty bed I walk to him. "Quil" he looks at with red-hot eyes. I sit on his bed I pull him in my arms we stay like for while just holding each other. I pull away.

"Go take a shower and I will clean your room" I say he looks at me and nods.

"Rhank you for everything" he speaks softly.

I smile softly at him.

After 3 hours of cleaning and re organize I made them dinner. Mato pull me in hug "thank you Ausie" he says as I hug him tightly.

"of course Mato and when will Nayla come home from work" I ask.

He smiles "in four hours" I nodded.

"tell I say hi" I say and he smiles and adds "I will" I hug Quil who looks better.

"Thank you" he say, I hug him more tightly.

When I got in my car I text Zach letting him know Quil is okay. It is 5  PM and I am so tired. I just want to cuddle with my sweet boy. I pull in our driveway got out and went inside. "AUSIEEEE" Collin yells and attacked me with hugs. I laugh and kiss the top of his head.

"Let's get ready for bed" I say he sighs dramatically making dad laugh. "Go take a shower" dad says Collin goes upstairs.

As I clean the living room I told dad what me and the group thinks what is happening with Layla "what should we do?" I ask he looks at me.

"Document everything like take pictures of her bruise cuts etc." He says to me as I nodded "there isn't much we can do until she reach out to me" he says angrily.

"I don't want her to die" I say brokenly he pulls me in hug.

"She won't because we will get her out." He says I nodded.

Paul

I shifted back in my human form with Embry. I smell food in the pack house aka Sam and Emily house. I walk in and see Blake god I have miss him so much. He been working on a murder case. He is laughing at something that Emily is say and my god it is my favorite music the world. He look over at me and give me his beautiful smile. My heart skip a beat. "Hey pretty boy" I feel my face heat up.

I love it when he calls me that "hey handsome" he smirks and hand me a plate of food "you are the best" he smiles I always gets hungry after shifting. I sit by him on the couch my leg blush his. I sigh in content I feel at home with him. As I eat Embry gives Sam the updates.

"We need stop them before they found out about Autumn" Jared says. After Sam soul bond with Autumn.

Billy told us the truth about her and explain everything about her behavior I was the first person to told him we needed to tell her the truth. She believes her biological parents didn't love her but in reality they die to protect her. But Billy said no that we need to wait. It piss me off that Sam ordered us not tell to her. Me and Sam got in a huge fight that I shifted Blake had to calm me down.

"I think they know" Embry says I look at him and sit my plate down lean on Blake who rubs my leg to keep me to calm me.

"What makes you think that" I ask.

"the leader of the group been  eyeing her" Embry says and takes a deep breath.

"That means we need to take turns to watch her bedroom." Sam say as Emily rubs his shoulders trying to relax him. His instinct is screaming at him to grab his soul sister and hide her away. So we set up a schedule for what days we will watch Autumn.

Me and Blake walk in the woods to his parents house. I sigh as we get closer Blake look at me "you have better control of your shifting. Come in with me." I look him.

"Mom and dad miss you Paul so much" he say warmly I look at him he gives me a comforting smile and hold out his hand. I look at him then at his hand.

"I know you won't hurt them. You haven't hurt me" I take a deep breath and take his hand. I nodded.

When we walk in the first person who see me is John and he look at me with so much emotions I can't name them all. He grab my shoulders Tears running my face "you come back son" then he hug me so tightly I can't breathe but I don't care I hug him tightly and cried.

"I am so sorry" I cried out. Holding him like a lifeline he move one of his hand and grab back of my head.

"All that matters that you come back home" he says as I sob into his chest and holds on tightly to him.

"Shhh it okay son." I hear a gasps I turn my head and see Daisy with tears running down her face.

"Daz" she ran to me and cup my face and wiping my tears.

"My beautiful boy come back" I let go of John and hug Daisy she sob in my arms.

"Don't you ever do that again" she says with tears running down her face.

"I am so sorry Daz so sorry it just...Hurt knowing Roseanne won't run to the door and knock me on floor with her hugs." I say.

John let out a tearful laugh. Daisy hug me tightly "I know Paly" she says. I close my eyes it been while hearing that nickname that this family give me.

I hear someone coming down the stairs and see Leo with his mouth open. "Is this real or I am dreaming?" He ask.

"you're not dreaming" Blake says. I let go of Daisy as Leo throw his arms around me.

"Don't you ever do that again!" He says and sob in my arms I hug him tightly.

"I am so sorry Leo" he shakes his head and holds on to me like I would disappear. Then I see Michael he looks like he wants to yell at me but at the same time hold me.

"I am so sorry for leaving I just needed space" I say brokenly he looks at me.

"We needed you" he says angrily.

I look him "I know, I am sorry I wasn't there for you but I was at the funeral" he looks at me.

"You were?" I nodded he walk towards me "if you ever leave again I will not forgive you" he says.

I nodded "I won't leave again like that again" he nods and pull me in a hug. I wrap my arms around him. Then I feel other sets of arms around us. I am finally home.

Quil

I look outside of my window it is 9 pm and I can't sleep. I need to get out of this house I sit up and rub my eyes as my feet touch my floor. I look at me and Roseanne picture. I pick it up and hold it to my chest. Why her why did she had to go so soon. I gently sit it down on my nightstand that Autumn clean and re organize it. She clean my whole room giving me a fresh start. I don't know where I will be at without her. I walk to my dresser and take out shorts and short sleeves shirt and put it on and put on my shoes.

Mom just walk in the house when I grab my keys. "Where are you going?" She ask.

"I am going on the walk I can't breathe in here" she smiles sadly at me and pull me in a hug "be safe baby" I nodded and hug her tightly.

I sit on the edge of the cliff and look at the full moon I take a deep breath "I miss you Rose so much" I say quietly and I swear I could feel her sitting by me. I close my eyes take a deep breath. I hear someone coming towards me. I turn and see a redhead girl looking at me.

"I am sorry I didn't mean to disturb you" her voice is soft and gentle. I shake my head "you didn't" she looks at me. I know she knows who I am. Roseanne death made it to Port Angeles and Seattle.

"You can sit with me" I say.

She walks over and sits with me we didn't talk to each other just enjoying the comfortable silence. For the first time since Roseanne death I feel at peace. I take a deep breath and look over at the redhead. Her hair is wavy and messy at the same time it is adorable. She looks at me blushing I smile. After while she lay her head on my shoulder.

Bella

As me and Edward race to my house. "This is stupid Bella! We should have been at my house!" I glare at him. "I will not leave my family vulnerable Edward! James needs to believe I leave home so he won't go near my family!" He growls as I get out of my truck. I storm to in the house.

"Bella wait please" Edward says as I slam the door.

"GO AWAY!!" I scream dad and Autumn look at me.

"Bells what is going on" Autumn says I look her.

"I am done with Edward. I need to leave" dad look at me with so much emotions it is breaking my heart.

"Don't go it is late sleep on it" he says as I pack my stuff.

"No! I need to leave now!!" At that Collin come out of his room rubbing his eyes.

"Bell  what is happening?" He ask sleepy.

Tears running down my face oh god I am going to break his little heart but I had to keep him safe.

"I need to go back to Arizona" I say.

"But why???" He ask.

I kiss his forehead "I can't be here everything reminds me of him" he hold on to my hips.

"Please don't leave too" he begs.

I cup his face "I will come back when I am ready to come back" I say.

He shakes his head "please don't go please." He says so brokenly.

I close my eyes "I am sorry Collie" then I head downstairs. Before I open the door.

"Please we just got you back Bells" dad say brokenly. Please forgive me.

"It was a mistake to come back here" the look Autumn give me gutted me. I want to take it back but I have to keep her safe. I open the door and got in my truck and drive away. With my heart in my throat.

Chapter Text

Collin looks at the empty spot that Bella usually sits in with tears in his eyes. I reach out to him and squeeze his hand. "Why did she leave us like that?"

Dad closes his eyes. "She needs space," he says with so much sadness.

I only look out the window as I slowly chew on my breakfast. "Come on, we need to head to school," I say, watching as he pushes his eggs around, not eating. I pull him in my arms reassuringly. "She will come back."

He glares at me and stands up from his chair. "She won't! Paul and Jared, Sam and Embry left us and haven't come back!! EVERYONE IS LEAVING ME!! WHY IS EVERYONE LEAVING!! I AM FINALLY HAPPY, AND THEN EVERYONE IS STARTING TO LEAVE!!!" He yells. Dad goes up to him to try and get a hold of him, but to our surprise, Collin starts to hit Dad's chest. "NO NO," he sobs as dad holds him tightly. "Why is everyone leaving me?" Dad kisses the top of his head.

"I will never leave you, never!" I say, bending down to his level, but he glares at me

"Bella said the same thing, and she left!" He yells at me, but I pull him into my arms.

I repeat myself. "I will never leave. Okay? never."

He holds onto me tightly. "Promise?" He asks.

"I promise, my sweet boy," I cup his face.

He hugs me tightly. As he lets go, Dad pulls him in a hug. "And I will never leave you either."

Collin hugs him tightly. "Love you, Papa"

Dad lets out a shaky breath. "Love you more, buds."

With that, Collin and I walk to my car.

I arrive at his school, but before Collin gets out of the car, he looks at me in the mirror. "I am sorry for yelling and hitting Papa." He looks down with shame.

I turn in my seat and reach out and hold his hand. "It's okay, you are allowed to show your frustration."

He glances up at me, his eyes genuine. "I am just scared of losing everyone."

I gently squeeze his hand. "I know... and it's okay. I'm scared too."

He reaches over to me and hugs me tightly. "I love you, Ausie."

I kiss his cheek lightly, "Love you more, Collie."

He gets out, and he blows me a kiss. I pretend to catch it and place my hand on my heart and blow him a kiss. He smiles and does the same thing I did.

I walk into my class and notice that Emmett isn't here. What the fuck. Then, at lunch, I don't see either of the Cullens. I narrow my eyes and feel that something is wrong. Tyler looks at me with his warm brown eyes and asks, "Hey, are you okay?"

I shake my head in response. "Bella left last night because Edward and her broke up."

His eyebrows shot up. "They've only been together for like one month or less."

I nod at him. "Something is wrong because the Cullens are gone, too." My stomach turns with uncertainty. I sigh and eat my lunch as Angela and Jessica talk about prom. I want to join, but my gut is screaming at me to connect the dots.

Instead of joining in the conversation, I text the group chat with Emmett and Rosalie.

Me:

Where are you guys?

Rosalie:

Something came up with a family member, we will be back soon

Emmett:

Yeah, we will be back, Sweetness

I almost put my phone away, but then another text pops up.

Mia:

Can you pick up Brady? I am getting slammed at work.

Me:

Of course.

Mia:

Thank you! I owe you one.

Mia is a good mom; she is doing her best as a single mother. She works two jobs, but that means she can't spend a lot of time with Brady. I put my phone away and look at their empty seats. I sigh as I finish my lunch and go to class, thinking about how strange everything is.

Even during class, I'm having a hard time focusing. "Ms. Swan, can you tell me the difference between a psychopath and a sociopath?" Mr. Cooper asks. I blink a couple of times at the question.

"Psychopaths feel nothing, but sociopaths can feel some extent with someone they have a strong attachment to," I respond. He nods, satisfied with my answer, and goes back to teaching. I twist the bracelet that Luna gave me. I feel like throwing up. I bounce my leg as I rub my neck anxiously. I can't shake off a feeling like death is approaching me.

When the last bell finally rings, I grab my things and speed walk to my car. I start panting heavily, my heart racing. Fucking hell, what is happening to me? I start my car and begin to head to Collin and Brady's school.

I pull up to see Brady and Collin laughing and smiling. I beam softly at this. I am so happy that he has Brady. They spot me and reach my car. "Hey Brady, your mom asked me to pick you up."

Brady's face falls. He loves his mom but hates it when she can't be there for him. He understands why she can't always be there, but he still wants his mom actively in his life. "Alright..." He says.

Collin looks at me with hopeful curiosity. "Can he come to our house?"

I nodded happily. "Yeah, of course." Brady smiles, and the two boys cheer as they happily get in the back seats.

We arrive back at home. It is just us, as Dad will be back home at 5 pm, and it's only 3 pm right now. We get out of the car, and the boys run to the backyard. I shake my head at them as I grab all three of our backpacks and head into the house.

While they hang out, I start preparing food for us. I take out chicken breasts and start to pound them with the meat hammer to make them more tender. I grab the seasonings like sweet paprika, dried onion powder, salt, cayenne pepper, and chili powder. I mix them all in the bowl before putting the chickens in. I rub the seasonings all over them and put the newly seasoned chicken breasts in a ziplock bag, then into the refrigerator to marinate.

While waiting, I put on music as I clean the house. Whilst tidying up, I feel arms wrap around my waist, "Hey, Moonlight."

"Hey, baby." I smile, knowing exactly who it was, as I feel a kiss on the side of my neck from behind.

Jacob grins into my neck. I giggle as he tickles me. Jacob briskly turns me around and pulls me into a long kiss. My lips curve upward as he pulls away. "Missed you," he says, wrapping his arms around me and planting another kiss on my lips.

"EW," I hear Collin spit out, making us laugh.

"Gross," Brady says, making a gagging noise.

I chuckle at their reactions, still in Jacob's arms. "You guys do know you will kiss someone when you are older. You'll understand then."

Collin narrows his eyes, "Yes, but I won't eat her face!"

"I wasn't eating her face," Jacob says, laughing so hard he grabs my shoulder to keep himself up.

Brady raises his eyebrows. "Yeah, right. That's not what it looked like."

I shake my head at their bickering. I take out my phone and check the time. It is 4:10 pm. I go to the kitchen and begin to cook the meal I have planned. I put the boys in charge of setting the table and doing their homework as Jacob helps me with cooking.

"Jake?" I ask.

He looks at me as he finishes making the mashed potatoes. "Yeah?"

I look at him with the same uncertainty from earlier. "Things are not adding up... Bella leaves, and the Cullens are nowhere to be seen either. And I have a feeling that something is going to happen, I can't shake it off," I say, gazing down at the chicken. My hands start to shake, and my heart starts to race.

Jacob sees this and pulls me into his arms. He rubs my back to calm me down. "Breathe, you're okay." I take a deep breath and hug him tightly.

Dad finally comes home. "Man, it smells so good in here," he says. Jacob and I quickly separate, and my dad walks towards me and kisses my forehead.

I smile at him. "Just in time," I motion for the boys to put their homework away.

After they did, we finished setting up the table by putting down the big bowl of mashed potatoes, the chicken breasts, and a hearty plate of green beans at the center. We enjoy our meal as we talk about our day.

I notice how Collin looks over at Bella's empty seat. I reach over and grab his hand to give it a comforting squeeze, but he sighs sadly.

Brady sees this and elbows him lightly. "She will come back; she just needs space," Brady says, and Collin nods, trying to believe his words.

Brady and Collin chill in the living room until Mia comes to pick up Brady at around 6:30 pm. Mia comes in for a quick chat, thanking me for watching over Brady for the day. I tell her it wasn't a hassle at all. I love Brady with all my heart, just as I love Collin. Before she and Brady leave, I give her a container of our dinner that I had prepared to the side, and she accepts it gratefully. She and Brady deserve better, truly.

I look at the clock, and it's already 7:30 pm, which is my usual time to go on a run. I walk towards my room and see Jacob and Collin playing a newly released video game in the living room. I smirk and kiss each of their heads. They look up and smile at me.

Prepared for my run, I tie my shoes, sitting at the bottom of the steps. Dad stood in front of me, holding his hand out. "Take this," he says as he hands me a gun.

I raised an eyebrow, a little surprised and skeptical.

"You need it." He starts. "You are a small girl, and there have been a lot of attacks lately."

"Okay, if you say so." I take it from him and attach its holster. He nods in approval.

While about a quarter into my run, I check my pulse to make sure I am not overdoing it. Taking a deep breath, I start to feel the hair behind my neck start to rise, and the unsettling feeling in my gut returns. I start to pick up my pace; the voices in my head yelling RUN RUN RUN so loudly in my ears that my head starts pounding.

Bella

Edward calls and says that we are returning to Folks. I quickly start to pack my clothes when my phone rings. When I check the caller ID, it isn't a number I recognized. "Hello?" I ask.

"BELLA!!" Autumn yells on the other side of the anonymous line. My heart drops to my stomach with a sick feeling. I know James has her.

"AUTUMN! Where are you??!?" I half yelled in panic. I need her to tell me where she is.

Instead of my sister's, I hear his voice. "Come to your old ballet school and trade yourself for her."

I swallow thickly, hearing his offer. I will do anything for my sweet Autumn, even trade my own life for hers. "And Bella, if you tell anyone about this, she will die." He says before hanging up.

I immediately race to the ballet school. He has my baby sister; I can't and will not lose her. Not today.

When I open the door, I hear Autumn screaming my name. "BELLA! BELLA!"

I run inside without a second thought. "AUTUMN!" I yell.

"BELLA, WHERE ARE YOU?" I hear her yelling in the closet. I quickly make it to the closet door and open it.

She isn't here.

It is a video of her hugging me tightly, "I thought I lost you." The me in the video hugs her back.

She's not here... I take a deep breath, relieved knowing she is safe. I hear a sound from behind me, and I turn around to see James.

"YOU USED MY SISTER AS BAIT TO GET ME HERE!!" I sharply shout at him.

He gave me a cruel smile."Well, it worked, didn't it?"

I sneer at him. As long as my sweet Autumn is safe, I am okay. I have to make it out of here for her, for Autumn. She can't lose me, too.

Autumn

I continue running so fast that my vision begins to blur. Then a moment later, I am tackled to the ground, as cold hands wrap around my throat, nails digging in my skin. I scream out in pain.

"Your little friend fought a little harder than that." A sickly sweet voice taunted me. My whole body freezes.

I peer through my eyes as I wriggled in their grasp and see a crazy redhead woman. "What did you say?!?!"

She grins coldly. "Your friend was tasty. Man, witch's blood can be so sweet or so bitter."

My veins feel like they are on fire. I don't stop whatever is happening to me. My body is acting on instinct. I close my fists. I see the fire ignite on my hands, and I immediately punch her. She howls in pain, getting off of me.

I get up and run as fast as possible away from the crazy woman. In a split second, she jumps in front of me, gripping my throat once more, so hard that I feel my head heating up from the lack of oxygen. I push my hand under her jaw and watch as it starts to crack. I feel this energy running through my body. Somehow, some way, I manage to channel it, continuing to push on this woman's chin, and her head is most falling off. She abruptly drops me, stopping me from doing any more damage.

I try to crawl away, but I feel her grabbing my leg. I kick out, and she laughs. "You make this so much fun," she says as she grabs a fistful of my hair, tilting my head to the side.

She is going to bite me.

I let out a scream so loud that the trees and the ground start to shake. Blue light comes out of my chest as she gets off of me again, covering her ears. Crying out in pain, I continue to scream. The red-haired woman quickly gets up from the ground with barely enough energy and runs away into the woods. I collapse on the floor and everything goes dark.

 

Bella

I run towards the door, but before I can even touch the handle, James grabs me and slams me to the ground. A scream rips out of my throat as he forcefully presses down on my leg, breaking it.

"Smile for the camera," James taunts, sticking the video camera in my face.

"You are sick," I shouted at him. He retaliates by breaking my wrist. I let out another gut-wrenching scream of pain when Edward finally barges in, punching him off of me. They fight like hell. Edward manages to fling James to the other side of the studio. Edward hastily picks me up and jumps into the air towards the widow, but then James catches his leg, pulling us both down to the floor.

I fall into a mirror with a crash. I cry out again as I feel a glass shard stab me in the thigh. I writhe in pain as James and Edward fight again. I am slowly losing consciousness, and my vision is so blurry. I feel someone bite me, and then the most excruciating burning starts. My veins are fire, and I can't help but continue to whimper in pain. I barely hear the new voices around me until I feel someone biting me again.

My cries stop as the pain slowly fades, but the world begins to fade. "Edward, find the will." I hear a familiar voice. Carlisle? It had to be. I can't die, not when Autumn and Collin and Dad think I hate them. I have to get back to them. I need to get back to them.

Everything went dark.

Sam

I suddenly feel this horrible pain in my chest, then the ground begins to shake. Autumn. She immediately is the first thing that comes into my mind. I shift and howl loudly to signal to the rest of the pack.

'Yo, what is happening?' Jared asks through the pack bond.

'Something is happening to Autumn,' I say, panting. I can't lose her. My heart is pounding. I can't lose my soul sister.

'THIS WAY I SMELL HER OVER HERE!' Embry yells.

We stop dead in our tracks when we see Autumn's limp body. I whimper, pushing her head with my snout. We can hear her heartbeat, but why isn't she opening her eyes?

'Come on, Autumn, wake up.' I think quietly.

She didn't move. I lick her hand. Paul shifts back to his human form to check if she is even breathing.

"Her breathing is fine," Paul says. My body relaxes. She is okay. She is alive, and that's what matters.

Paul places her on my back and ties her scarf around my neck to keep her attached to me. He knows I need to feel her. His brother bond with Blake isn't the same as my sister bond with Autumn. It has to be imprinting, but knowing Paul, he will deny it.

Paul shifts back to his wolf form because I don't want to see his dick. Gross.

We arrived at Billy's. He sees Autumn and lets out a relieved breath, "Thank fuck you found her."

Paul goes behind the treeline and shifts back first. He comes back, taking Autumn from my back and into his arms. Knowing that I needed to feel her presence, Paul waits for me to come back from shifting and hands her over to me.

I carry her into the Blacks' residence, pressing my cheek softly against her forehead. It brings peace of mind, reminding me that she's safe in my arms, alive.

Billy directs me to Jacob's room, her comfort place. I carefully place her in Jacob's bed. Billy quickly checks her over. "She has a sore throat and bruises, but other than that, she will be okay."

I nod, but I still worry for her. If only I had been there, I could've prevented her from getting hurt. I bend down to kiss her forehead, "I love you, Kiddo, more than you could ever know." I feel her brushing her finger on the back of my hand. With that, I left.

 

Autumn

I can't see anything. I think I'm asleep. I am not sure what's happened, but I swear I hear and feel Sam near me.

"I love you, Kiddo, more than you could ever know," I swear I hear Sam's voice echoing.

Then I hear panicked ones. "AUTUMN!!" I hear Dad yell.

"Charlie, calm down. She'll just be a little sore when she wakes up." Billy says as I finally open my eyes. It takes me a moment, but I see Jacob walking towards me. I blink a couple of times to blink away the blurriness.

"What happened?" I ask as he cups my face, checking to make sure I am there with him.

"You went missing again." I lay my forehead on his.

"Stop scaring us..." Jacob says and kisses me softly.

I settle into his touch, but my mind immediately goes to Collin. "Wait, where's Collie?"

"Don't worry. Harry is watching over him at the house." He strokes my head. "Charlie didn't want him part of the search. It would be too dangerous... and if something bad did happen, which luckily didn't, he didn't want Collin to see it."

I nodded in response. Good. That's good. Collin means too much to me. He only deserves to see the good things in life.

Jacob and I spend some time together in his room, cuddling and talking. I hate to worry him so much. I hate worrying everyone so much. But I don't know what's happening to me.

We are in the middle of a conversation when all of a sudden, Charlie appears in the doorway, disheveled.

"Dad?" I looked at him with concern, shifting to sit up to the best of my ability.

"I'm heading to Arizona," he states. "Bella's been in an accident."

"What?!" I exclaim, worry filling my stomach. "What do you mean by an accident? If you're going, I'm going too."

"No, Babygirl, you're staying." Dad firmly states.

"Like hell, I am. I'm going to Arizona, too." I swing my feet off the edge of Jacob's bed.

"No, you're hurt. We just got you back, so I'm not letting you push yourself." Dad looks at me with a stern look.

Jacob sat up, holding my shoulder caringly. "Charlie's right. You need a break."

I am not going to sit here and mope in pain while my sister was in a whole other state, probably in worse condition than me. I will not allow it. "I told you I'm going. Whether either of you likes it or not." I retort stubbornly. "I'll get to Arizona, one way or another."

Jacob and Charlie glance at each other. Then, my dad lets out a heavy sigh. "Fine. Jacob, if you could please help her to the cruiser." Dad shakes his head as he turns to leave. He didn't have the energy to convince me otherwise, knowing I wouldn't change my mind.

And with that, my dad and I, plus Collin, head to Arizona. Collin had waited patiently in the living room for Dad and me to get home. He had seen us packing and asked where we were going. I couldn't lie to him, so I told him about Bella.

It was in that moment, I understood how Dad must've felt earlier. After what happened with the red-haired vampire in the woods, I can't risk something happening to Collin. If Bella got injured and the Cullens haven't been around, it has something to do with them. I absolutely did not want Collin involved in any of this.

But just like me, he was dead set on coming with.

Now we were in Phoenix, Arizona. Collin lays his head on my thigh as Dad drives us to the hospital. We walk into her hospital room and see Edward.

Collin sneers at him. "THIS IS YOUR FAULT!!" He yells. I instinctively grab Collin as he tries to approach Edward. "Every time she is near you, she ends up hurt!!" Edward flinched like Collin had hit him. Collin yells to his face, "STAY AWAY FROM HER!!!"

This little boy has lungs.

"I am sorry..." Edward utters, but all I do is glare at him.

Collin walks to Bella's bedside. She slowly opens her eyes, and tears start running down her face. "I am so sorry... I'm so sorry for leaving you," she says brokenly and hugs Collin. He holds her so tightly, but so delicately, afraid of hurting her any more than she already was. I walk to her, and she pulls me into her arms as well. We cry together, happy to be reunited once more.

The day after, we are back home, tired as hell. My first stop was to see Jacob. I promptly went to his house, and we were back in his room. He pulled me into his arms again. It was like when I had just woken up.

As Jacob holds me in his arms, I begin to think. I don't know really when it started. I don't know when I started looking at Jacob more than my best friend. More than just the boy I used to make mud pies with. But when I look at him, I feel safe. I feel like there's no one else in the world but him. I feel at peace.

 

Sam

I stride up to the Cullens' house and pound on the door.

Edward opens it, brows creased by the wolf's arrival. "What do you want?" He asks.

I grab him by the throat, "If you ever put Bella in danger ever again, I will kill you. Do you understand me? I don't care about the treaty! She belongs in my family, and if I see one more scratch on her, best believe I will end you."

The vampire narrows his creepy eyes at me.

"I mean it, Edward," I spit out threateningly and walk back to my car. "One more scratch, you are done." With one final sneer, I took off.

Chapter Text

One week later...

Jacob holds my hand as we walk on La Push beach. I take a deep breath, and the smell of the beach calms my nerves. It's my third favorite place to go to for peace and quiet. The first one is Jacob's arms-scratch that-his arms are home. Second place is Jacob's garage as he works on his motorcycle or a car. Hearing the sounds of tools working on a vehicle is soothing to me, too.

He takes a seat on a rock, then pulls me into his lap. I wrap my arms around him, sighing deeply as I lay my head on his chest and stare at the water. Since Edward and Bella got back together, things at home have been intense. He wouldn't let her out of his sight for a second. He literally will go into my room just to stare at Bella; it creeps me out. Then one night, I caught him sneaking into my room and going through my things.

I can't find my baby blanket anywhere. I know he has stolen it! I confronted him, and he denied it, but I know-I fucking know he has it! The only thing I have to my biological parents! I can't believe he took my baby blanket; out of everything, he took that.

I feel Jacob kissing the side of my head. "What is going on in your head, Moonlight?" He asks softly.

I close my eyes. "Edward snuck into my room and took my baby blanket," I say bitterly. I can't believe he took that instead of my valuable things. He wanted my baby blanket.

Jacob straightens up, looking down at me, "What? Are you serious right now?!" He asks sharply.

I nodded.

"I am going to kill him!" He says, getting up. He knew how much that blanket meant to me; it showed that at least my parents took care of me. I grab his arm, and he looks at me angrily.

"He needs to learn personal space! I am going to kill him!" He spits out. I lay my hand on his chest. He was hot to the touch, but not the normal hot-like unnatural hot.

"Jake, please calm down," I say as he closes his eyes, breathing heavily.

"Sorry, it's just- he needs to back off and leave you alone." He says, looking in my eyes.

I smile softly at him. "I will talk to Emmett in class tomorrow about it."

He nods and pulls me in close and kisses me softly.

"Be safe, Moonly," he says.

We pulled into my dad's driveway and headed inside. As we walked upstairs, I froze at the sound of shouting coming from my room. Bella and Edward were arguing.

I was suddenly grateful Collin was at Brady's house.

"SHE'S MY BABY SISTER, EDWARD! YOU HAVE NO RIGHT GOING THROUGH HER THINGS!" Bella yelled, her back to me.

"SHE BELONGS TO-" Edward cut himself off when he saw me standing in the doorway. His stare made my veins feel like they were on fire.

"She belongs to us! She is a Swan! Her biological parents abandoned her, she is MINE!" She yells, snapping at him.

Tears welled up in my eyes. The way she claimed me as hers-like I was something precious-touched my heart deeply.

I ran to her and wrapped my arms around her from behind. She let out a soft "oof," then laid her hand gently over my wrist. I hugged her tighter.

"You are my sister. My sweet Autumn," she says as she turns around and pulls me in her arms.

"I love you, sweet Autumn," she said, kissing the top of my head.

I held onto her like she was the only thing keeping me grounded.

"What the fuck are you doing in Autumn's room?" Jacob growled from the hallway.

Edward narrowed his eyes, and when he looked at me, it was with disgust and hatred so sharp it made me recoil. I held onto Bella even tighter.

She glared at him, her voice dripping with venom. "Don't you dare treat her like she's some kind of threat."

Edward let out a slow, heavy breath, but said nothing.

"I'm sorry," Edward muttered just as Jacob stepped forward and gently pulled me out of Bella's arms.

I looked at Edward, my heart pounding. You're more dangerous than I'll ever be, vampire.

His eyes widened slightly, hearing my thought. He looked at Bella.

"Let's go to my house," he said quietly.

Bella glanced at me, mouthing, Are you okay?

I gave a small nod. I watched as Bella and Edward leave together.

Later, I sat at my desk drawing, while Jacob sat across from me finishing a dreamcatcher for Collin. Soft music played in the background. Collin had been having a lot of nightmares lately. We'd asked him what they were about, but he wouldn't talk. Still, we hoped this might help.

I look up and smile as Jacob twisted a strand into place, his fingers working with careful precision. He is so good with his hands.

"What?" he asks, catching me staring.

"Nothing," I say softly. "I just love watching you."

He smiles, warm and gentle, then opens his arms to me. I stand up and walk to him, and he pulled me into his lap.

He kisses me softly, and I lean into it, placing my hand on the back of his head, deepening the kiss. His hands slide to my waist, pulling me closer...

The door bursts open.

"AUTUMN MARIA SWAN, GET OFF OF HIM!!" My dad shouts.

At that, I got up so fast that I fell on the floor as Jacob paled.

Dad looked like he was about to combust. His face was bright red. "Jacob. You have ten seconds to get out of this room."

Jacob didn't hesitate. He bolted out the door without a word.

I sigh. "We were just kissing, Dad."

He raises an eyebrow. "Oh really? Did I go blind or something?"

I groan. "Dad, we're not gonna have sex-yet."

"Autumn!" he exclaims, making a horrified face.

I roll my eyes. "Stop being dramatic. I'm still a virgin."

His face twists in visible disgust, shaking his head. It was rought being a girl dad of two.

II walk out of my room and spot Jacob sitting stiffly on the couch, looking guilty.

"Sorry, Charlie," he says, glancing nervously at Dad.

Dad sighs and runs a hand down his face. "If you two ever do decide to... do it, just use protection. I am not ready to be a grandpa at this age."

He grabs a beer from the fridge with a grumble.

It's his turn to make dinner tonight-and thank god, he's making tacos. His tacos are legendary. I practically start drooling just smelling them.

While Dad cooks, Jacob and I head out to pick up Collin. The second we pull up, he bolts toward Jacob, grinning from ear to ear.

"Did you have fun with Mia and Brady?" Jacob asks, catching him easily in his arms.

Collin beams. "Mia got me a Star Wars LEGO set!"

Brady walks over and gently places the box in my backseat, giving Collin a fond look. "Hopefully you'll spend the night over here."

Collin turns to us, big brown puppy-dog eyes in full effect. "Can I please stay the night? Pleeease?"

Jacob groans. Those eyes are his kryptonite.

"I am sorry, Collie... Maybe on Friday. Tonight is a school night," I say gently.

Collin's face falls, and Brady sighs heavily.

"But that is 4 days away," Collin pouts.

Mia, standing nearby, laughs and ruffles his hair. "You'll see each other at school. You'll live."

I shake my head, smiling as we drive back home.

When we pull into the driveway, I spot Luna's car and grin. I get out, head inside, and find Billy and Luna sitting at the table, laughing like old friends.

"They are teenagers, Charlie. They're not little kids anymore," Billy tells Dad, causing him to make a disgusted face.

"I didn't need to see them making out!" He says.

Luna holds her stomach laughing so hard. "Hey at least you didn't walk in when he was on top of her." I hear her say.

Dad's eyes widen. "I'll shoot Jacob if I do catch him."

At that, Collin storms in and glares up at him. "You will not shoot my Jake!"

Everyone laughs, and Dad crosses his arms with a grumble.

"I'm getting too old for this sh-" He cuts himself off. His face drops as he realizes Sam isn't here. The silence that follows is deafening.

And then-I swear-I hear a soft whine outside the house. I turn toward the window and freeze. That same black wolf is in the backyard, just standing there. Watching me. We lock eyes. And for a second, it's like something ancient pulls at me-this deep, magnetic urge to go to him.

But then he backs away. Disappears into the trees. Moments later, heartbreaking howls echo through the forest.

Sleep doesn't come easily that night. I nearly died. By a fucking vampire. A vampire who killed Rosa. Can you believe that? Vampires are real. Witches are real.

And Rosa-my Rosa-was a witch.

That redhead said I'm a witch too. But that doesn't make sense. I'm not related to one...

But then...my hands. They were on fire. I saw it. I felt it.

Did my hands really catch on fire?

I shake my head. Maybe I was hallucinating.

Because that is insane to even think about.

I sigh and look at the clock; it is 4 am. I need at least 4 hours of sleep. I toss the blanket aside and get up, quietly stepping into Bella's room. She stirs as I slip into her bed.

She wraps her arms around me instantly.

"Everything okay, Ausie?" she murmurs.

I shake my head against her shoulder. "I can't sleep," I whisper.

She holds me tighter, and I snuggle closer to her warmth. Finally... I start to drift.

Peace, at last.

I feel someone shaking us gently awake. It's Dad, smiling down at us.

"Some things never change," he says with a soft chuckle.

We yawn in unison, and he grins. "Collin's already up and getting ready," he adds.

I nod and get up, stretching.

Dad makes eggs, bacon, and toast for breakfast. I wrap my arms around him in a hug. "Thank you, Dad," I murmur as he kisses the top of my head.

Collin sits beside Bella at the table. He hasn't left her side since she came back from Arizona. She wraps her arm around him, protective and gentle. I smile softly. Bella adores Collin, and he looks up to her like she's his cool auntie.

I glance at the clock.

"Alright, we've gotta go to school," I say, grabbing my backpack. I lean over to Bella. "I'll meet you at lunch."

She nods and takes the last bite of her toast. Then she kisses my cheek and presses a kiss to Collin's forehead.

"Drive safe," Dad tells her as he kisses the side of her face.

Bella smiles and heads out.

When we pull up to the elementary school, I spot Brady waiting by the front doors. Collin throws open the door and bolts toward him, his backpack bouncing. Brady grins wide, and they walk inside together, side by side.

I rush down the road to my school and into my class just before the bell. Tyler raises an eyebrow.

"You're almost late," he says.

I shrug. "I had to drop Collin off at school."

He nods and turns back to his notes.

My eyes wander to the window. My stomach churns. I need to talk to Rosalie and Emmett. They deserve to know what happened. And I need to tell them what I now know...

They're vampires.

I don't think they'd ever hurt me... But Edward?

Yeah. I don't trust him at all.

By the time lunch rolls around, I'm starving. Thank god it's cheeseburger day-my favorite. But as soon as I see Rosalie and Emmett at their usual table, I know I can't wait.

I skip the lunch line and walk straight over.

Rosalie raises a brow. "You're not going to eat? Cheeseburgers are your favorite."

I take a deep breath. "I need to talk to you. Right now. Privately."

They exchange a look, eyes narrowing with concern.

"Is everything okay?" Emmett asks.

I shake my head. Without another word, we head outside. I lead them into the woods, just far enough away from the school building.

Rosalie speaks first. "Honey, what's going on? Why are we out here?"

Before I can answer, Emmett zeroes in on my neck. His eyes flash, and without warning, he yanks down the collar of my turtleneck.

His expression shifts in an instant.

"What the fuck happened?!" he demands, voice tight with rage.

My heart skips a beat. I've never seen Emmett angry. Not like this.

I back away slightly, swallowing hard. "I was attacked... by a redheaded woman," I say in a small voice.

Rosalie's eyes widen. Emmett steps closer and gently brushes his fingers against the bruises on my neck. I flinch. He pulls his hand back immediately, his jaw clenched.

"I know you guys are vampires," I say quietly.

Emmett and Rosalie exchange a loaded look. The air grows heavier between us.

"That redhead-she killed my best friend. My other half," I choke out, voice breaking with anger.

Emmett sighs. "I'm so sorry, sweetness."

I shake my head, tears spilling freely down my cheeks. She was murdered, and I can't do anything about it. I couldn't protect her. I couldn't protect Rosanne.

"That's not all," I whisper. "Edward's been... stalking me."

Rosalie's head snaps toward me, eyes sharp as knives. "What?!" she demands, her voice low and deadly. My heart races.

Emmett takes a slow breath, clearly trying to stay calm.

"I'm going to kill him," Rosalie hisses.

I quickly shake my head. "He's your brother."

"I don't care," she snaps. "You're more important to us. You matter more."

And I believe her.

"I'm sorry," Emmett says again, voice soft and full of guilt.

I reach for his hand. "It's not your fault Edward is creepy," I mutter.

Rosalie lets out a short laugh and pulls me into a hug. I melt into her arms, closing my eyes. For a moment, I actually feel safe.

After we finish talking about everything-Victoria, Rosa, Edward-we head back toward the school. My stomach growls loudly.

Emmett grins. "Hey, I've still got my eggs. You want them?"

He hands over a small Tupperware, and I dig in immediately.
"Oh my god," I mumble, chewing. "These are so good."

Later, Emmett and I walk into class. I drop into my seat and lay my head on the desk, barely able to keep my eyes open. Emmett watches me, concern tightening his expression.

"I just... had a bad night, that's all," I mumble.

He doesn't look convinced.

Paul

I walk to Roseanne's bedroom door.

No one has gone into her room since she died. In a way, we pretend she's still in there, studying like she'll come out any second, mumbling about homework and asking what's for dinner. I stare at the doorknob, my heart heavy, and take a deep breath.

Then I open it.

The air hits me like a wave. Her bed is still messy, blankets bunched up like she just got up. Her makeup is scattered across her desk, her perfume faint but still clinging to the room like a memory. Rihanna and Beyoncé posters line her walls. Photos of her friends and family smile back at me.

I step inside, and the tears come instantly.

I walk to her desk and see a framed picture-me and her, laughing so hard our eyes are closed. I remember that day perfectly.

I was on the football field, scanning the bleachers for my mom. She promised she'd be there, and this game mattered. I didn't see her. My heart sank.

I lined up anyway. The game started. Play after play. We won, but I couldn't feel the thrill of it. My teammate, Al, nudged me.

"Paul, you good?" he asked

I just gave him a tight smile and walked toward the sidelines. But then I heard it.

"PAULLLLLL!!"

I looked up. There she was-Roseanne, standing in the bleachers holding a giant sign that said:

Beat Their Ass, Paul Lahote #25!

I laughed, full and loud.

Beside her stood John and Daisy, Leo and Michael. And further down, I saw Autumn and Sam, jumping up and down like maniacs. Jared and Embry were shoving each other. Jacob and Quil were arguing as Charlie stood behind them, rolling his eyes. I laughed again, brighter this time. They were all here for me.

After the game, I jogged over. Rosie had her back turned. I scooped her up from behind and rubbed my sweaty hair on her neck.

"EWWWW, THAT'S GROSS-GET OFF ME!!" she screamed, squealing with laughter.

I just held her tighter, laughing with her.

And then-click.

Someone took the photo. The one on her desk now. The one in my hands.

The pain hits me all over again. It's like my chest is cracking open. I press a hand to it, trying to keep everything inside. It hurt too much.

I look around her room through blurred eyes. We used to sit on her bed for hours, talking about everything-stupid stuff, serious stuff, dreams. She was the first person to look past all my walls, to see the scared ten-year-old kid underneath. And she didn't run away. She didn't pity me. She loved me.

She took me to her parents and said, "He needs somewhere to call home."

From that day forward, her home was my home.

God, I miss you so much, Rosanne. My sweet Rosie...

I walk to her bed and sit on it.

She would braid my hair. It helped her to calm down whenever she got anxious. I loved it. I let her do it every time. It was soothing, gentle-a reminder that softness still existed in a world so often cruel.

We all suffered loss. But hers... hers broke something in me.

After her funeral, I cut my hair. I couldn't bear it anymore. Quil's dad did it for me. Embry and Jared cut theirs too. Sam had already done it, years ago, when his little sister Natalie was killed by a drunk driver.

Natalie was getting off the bus when a drunk driver didn't stop and hit. He killed her on impact. Sam was there when it happened. He wasn't the same for a while. Who could after seeing your baby sister killed by a reckless man?

I walk out of Roseanne's room, closing the door behind me. I press my forehead to the wood and breathe through my teeth.

Fucking hell. She died too early.

I grab my keys and head for the car.

The rage I feel, the helplessness-it's eating me alive. Hell, I almost hurt Blake. We were fighting again, arguing about our dynamic. He can't be more than a brother. He just can't. Even though he consumes my mind.

But we can't be anything more. I hate that I hurt him. But he doesn't understand-I can't be with him the way he wants. He's my soul brother.

Not my imprintee.

I hit the gas pedal harder, not caring how fast I'm going until-

"PAUL! LOOK OUT!" Roseanne screams.

Suddenly, the car spins. Then stops. Even though my foot's still pressing the gas.

I turn my head-and she's sitting there.

Roseanne.

In my car.

Roseanne, who's supposed to be dead.

I scream.

"WHAT THE FUCK-AM I DEAD?! HOW THE FUCK ARE YOU HERE?! YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO BE DEAD!" She looks at me like I'm a dumbass.

"I'm yours and our friends' guardian angel," she says, glaring. "You would've died if I didn't stop the car! What did I say about speeding?! You're such a dumbass."

I just blink, ignoring her yelling. "But how can I see you?"

She sighs, "Only supernatural people can see me. You, Sam, Jared, Embry..."

I stare at her, speechless. She sighs again.

"Look, I don't have long. Just please-don't do anything stupid. And keep an eye on Quil."

I nod at her. Then she's gone. Like it might just be a hallucination.

I blink like an idiot, staring at the empty passenger seat. I can't believe I just saw my dead friend. I look out the window and breathe in. Exhale.

I drive back to the pack house.

Autumn
2 days later

I wake up to voices-Edward and Bella.

"Please, Bella," Edward says. "I want to go to prom with you. Don't waste your senior year just going to the movie theater with your 'sister.' Alice wants to go dress shopping with you."

Ugh. That asshole. Bella's not even into prom, and this fuckhead is guilt-tripping her.

"Edward," she starts.

"Bella, for me. Please."

Manipulative ass man.

"...Fine," she says.

I want to punch Edward in the face. I walk into her room, but he's already gone.

"I'm sorry, Autumn. I have to cancel our movie night," Bella says, shoving things into her backpack.

"Don't do this, Bella. He is manipulating you! You told him no multiple times! Stand up for yourself!" I say sharply, my voice tight, my hands clenched at my sides. I can feel my pulse thudding in my ears.

"He is right, Autumn. This is one of a lifetime!" she snaps, jamming her laptop into her backpack with a force that makes it thud against the bottom.

"We made a plan before he even asked you to prom! We planned this beforehand! Because we don't have lot of days off to have a girls' day! And now you want to throw it away because he wouldn't take a no for an answer!?" I yell, the sting of betrayal burning in my throat.

I am honestly hurt-gutted-that she would throw our plans away like they meant nothing. That she would fold under pressure because he refuses to back off. That she won't even see it.

"Bella, open your eyes. He is manipulative!" I say, my voice trembling from how hard I'm holding back.

She shakes her head, her jaw tight, eyes flashing.

"He loves me and wants me to enjoy life!" she yells, her voice breaking with frustration.

"Oh really?! He's literally dragging you to prom-you don't want to go!" I say, stepping forward, heart racing, breath short. Her glare sharpens like a blade.

"Maybe he is right. You're jealous of me!" she yells.

I flinch like she slapped me, my breath catching in my chest.

"I am not! I am worried about you!" I say, trying to steady my voice, but it wavers.

She scoffs, a sharp, bitter sound, and turns away from me.

"Yeah, right," she spits, then storms toward the door.

She yanks it open-and freezes.

Standing there is Collin, eyes red, his face crumpled. He's crying.

Our faces drop immediately.

"Don't leave again, please," he cries out, running to her and hugging her tightly, as if he lets go, she'll disappear.

Shit. Our fight triggered him.

"I'm not leaving. I'm just upset, that's all, Collie," she whispers, her voice soft now as she kisses the top of his head. "I just need to walk it off."

He wouldn't let go of Bella. "Please, don't leave. Please, I will be a good boy. Please don't leave," he begs her repeatedly.

I see his jagged breaths. I take a step forward worriedly, but Bella comforts him first.

Bella's eyes widen. "Collie, I am not leaving. I promise," she says with tears in her eyes."Please take a deep breath," Bella asks of him. He is shaking in her arms, face blue.

She cups his face, stroking his cheek gently. "I promise I am not leaving again." Collin finally take a deep breath as Bella rubs his back. "I am not mad at you, sweetheart. I am frustrated with Autumn right now. I'll be back, right here-right with you, okay?"

And then she walks out-leaving the house, and leaving me standing there, stomach in knots, guilt twisting deep inside.

I sit him down in the living room and explain to him gently. There are two different types of fighting-the toxic kind and the kind that comes from love. The kind that tries to protect.

He is so upset, but he calms down. He thankfully understands where I'm coming from.

I sigh, dragging a hand through my hair. This boy went through hell before he got to us. Before he got a family who actually gave a damn.

When I go to school, I sit by Emmett. He silently slides his plate toward me, giving me his eggs. It's become our thing.

I smile. "Thank you, Mett."

He smiles softly back at me, eyes warm. "Of course, sweetness."

I sigh, and I can feel his gaze on me.

"What's wrong?" he asks gently, voice low like he doesn't want to push but needs to know.

I look at him, then down at the egg in my hand, blinking fast.

"Edward is changing Bella for the worse," I murmur, my voice cracking as I stare at the food like it's suddenly too heavy to hold. My eyes sting. "She doesn't like dancing, so we made plans... but now she's going to prom." I spit the word like it's poison, the memory of our fight still fresh and sore.

"I'm sorry, sweetness." His voice is soft but steady, grounding me. I nod, swallowing the lump in my throat.

Then I remember something, something that's been eating at me quietly for days.

"Have you seen my baby blanket?" I ask, turning to him more fully now. I've shown it to him before. I remember the way his expression shifted-surprised, maybe even a little shaken-but he didn't say much, just told me to keep it safe.

His brow furrows. "No... why?"

"I can't find it anywhere." My voice is thinner now, trembling with the weight of emotion I didn't know was still there. That blanket... it's not just fabric. It's a piece of my past that still makes me feel safe.

He pulls me into his arms without hesitation, wrapping me in the kind of hug that makes your chest loosen just a little.

"I'll look for it," he says firmly, and I nod into his shoulder, holding back tears.

Just being in his arms makes it feel a little more manageable.

Emmett
Prom night

Me and Rosalie get ready, and-my god-she is an angel. My heart stutters just looking at her. She's radiant, like the stars conspired to create her just for this moment.

I smile at her. "What?" she asks, tilting her head slightly, lips twitching into a soft smile.

"You are a breathtaking angel," I say, breathless.

She smiles, her eyes glowing, and leans in to kiss me. But then Edward walks toward us and my stomach drops. In his hand is... is that Autumn's baby blanket?

I freeze. He confirms it before I can speak: "We have an issue. Autumn is a Volturi. She's putting us-and Bella-in danger," he says coldly, holding the blanket like it's evidence in a trial.

That motherfucker went through Autumn's things. Touched what wasn't his. Took what I explicitly told her to keep safe in case it ever landed in the wrong hands. And now it has.

"Why the fuck do you have Autumn's baby blanket, Edward?!" I say sharply, voice laced with disbelief and fury.

He glares at me like I'm the one who betrayed him.

"You knew she's part of the Volturi?!" he snaps. "And didn't tell us?! You're putting us in danger-for what, a pathetic human?!" he spits.

Roselie growls, stepping forward. That word-pathetic-ignites something in her. Because Autumn was never pathetic. She made us feel human again. She never looked at us like we were monsters.

"Watch your mouth," she says, voice low and dangerous.

Edward turns his glare on her. "Please. You hate Bella. Why do you care so much about her weirdo of an adopted sister?"

Then his lips twist into a cruel, knowing smile. "Oh. Is it because she's the closest thing you'll ever have to a daughter?"

The room goes still. Like the air's been sucked out. No one moves. No one breathes.

He knows. That's the lowest blow anyone could throw. Everyone knows Roselie wanted to be a mother more than anything.

"FUCK YOU, ASSHOLE! FUCK YOU!!!" she screams, and before anyone can react, she launches at him with vampire speed, slamming him to the ground, her fists flying. The sound of her punches echoes through the house.

I grab her, trying to pull her off as she wrenches Autumn's blanket from Edward's grip. But he won't let go. The fabric tears in two.

My heart stops. Shit.

I stare at the torn blanket in her hands. Horror sinks deep in my chest.

Roselie's expression crumbles. Her lips part, her eyes wide. She can't believe what just happened.

Esme covers her mouth in shock. Alice's jaw drops open. Jasper doesn't move-just stares. And Edward... that bastard smiles.

"What the fuck is wrong with you, Edward?!" I shout, my voice shaking. I grab the torn piece of the blanket like it's made of glass and clutch it to my chest. Like I can protect it. Like I can somehow protect her through it.

I look at Esme. She steps forward gently.

"I can fix it," she says softly, hands outstretched. "I won't rip it more. I promise."

I hesitate... then nod, handing her the precious fabric with trembling hands.

"She's a witch! Not just any witch-a Volturi witch!" Edward shouts like a final blow.

But I turn on him, fire blooming in my chest.

"If you knew anything, you'd know she doesn't even know who her parents are! She thinks they never loved her! She didn't even know vampires existed until one attacked her!" I yell back, my voice rising with every word.

Alice's face drops, "What?!? She was attacked?!?"

I nod, glaring at Edward. "Yes. By Victoria."

I hate how Carlisle made us pretend to be brothers. Like Edward ever treated Roselie like family. Like he ever deserved her. People act like she's cold for no reason-like she's bitter by choice. But Roselie was violently raped and murdered. And all Carlisle saw in her was a good wife for Edward. Her hopes... her dreams... ripped away in one single, brutal night.

My angel deserved better.

After a couple more hours of getting ready, Esme meets us in the living room.

"Here, Emmett," Esme says quietly, returning with the blanket. You can't even tell it was torn. Her hands were gentle, steady, and loving.

"Thank you," I whisper, pulling her into a hug. I always appreciated her motherly nature.

"Let's go. I want to dance," Alice says, breaking the heavy silence.

I nod, taking Roselie's hand. We walk to her car, and I place the blanket safely under the backseat. I'm going to return it to its rightful owner. This was a part of Autumn, and she was someone I wanted to protect.

Bella

As Edward drove us to prom, my stomach was in knots. The look Autumn gave me earlier... it gutted me. I hurt my baby sister. What the hell is wrong with me?

I sighed as Edward pulled into the driveway of the prom venue. The moment the car stopped, I opened the door.

"I need fresh air," I murmured.

He nodded and leaned over to kiss me softly.

I walked over and sat on a bench nearby, breathing in the night air. It was cool, calming-until Leah walked up, her heels clicking softly on the pavement.

She was wearing a short red dress that shimmered with glitter and delicate flowers. She looked... stunning.

I sit on a bench. When Leah walk to me she is in a beautiful dress on short red dress that has sparkle on the with small flowers.

"Wow. You look absolutely gorgeous, Leah," I said honestly.

She blushed. "Thank you, Belly. You look beautiful too, that blue really suits you."

I smiled, the compliment softening some of the guilt in my chest. "So, what are you doing here?" I asked as she sat beside me.

She gave me a hesitant look. "My dad wanted me to tell you that the Cullens... they're not good company. He wants you to stay away from them."

I blinked at her. "They're dangerous people," she said, voice low.

I shook my head. "I'm okay with them. They haven't hurt me."

She nodded slowly. No argument, just quiet concern.

Then she stood and held out her hand for me. I took it-because my leg was still healing, and honestly, I needed the help. She carefully pulled me up, then spun me around gently.

I laughed, giggling as the fabric of my dress twirled. She looked at me like really looked at me, and I found myself leaning in closer, our faces nearly touching.

And then Edward returned.

He came between us, tugging me gently back.

"Have fun, Belly," Leah said softly. There was something in her gaze that I couldn't quite comprehend.

I gave her a small smile before following Edward back into the crowd.

Quil

It was 9 p.m. when I made my way to the cliffs. This had become our thing. I see the sweet redhead. Every night we come here. We didn't always talk. But just having someone there... that meant everything.

She was already sitting, gazing out over the dark water. I sat beside her.

"What's your name, Strawberry?" I asked, grinning.

"Strawberry?" She asks, giggling.

I smirked. "It fits."

"My name's Claire," she said, her voice sweet and soft, with a bit of rasp. I liked it way too much.

But I paused. My chest clenched. I can't... I can't fall for someone else. It's not time yet...

I shook the thought off. "I guess you know who I am," I said.

She nodded. "Yeah. It was all over the news."

Her tone turned somber. "I know what it's like... to lose someone. To have it blasted everywhere on the news."

"Who did you lose if that is okay to ask..." I ask she nods.

She nodded. "My uncle. He was murdered by a serial killer. They caught him-he's rotting away now."

She looked up at the stars. "It's been six years. I was ten. I still remember every second of that day."

"Does the pain stop?" I asked, barely able to get the words out.

She looked at me. "Some days it's less painful. Some days I can breathe. But there are days I still can't get out of bed."

I reached out and took her hand, squeezing it gently.

She paused. "But Roseanne would want you to live. Not to rot away, slowly killing yourself."

I nodded, swallowing hard. "It's hard."

"I know," she said. "But with time... it won't hurt this bad forever."

We ended up talking for hours.

I learned she loves snowboarding and snowball fights. She's a ballerina. Her favorite candy is strawberry Starburst-and really, anything strawberry. The nickname fits her perfectly.

She learned I play soccer-that I want to go pro. That I'm working toward a tech degree. I told her how my favorite candy is gummy bears, and I love anything blueberry.

And she didn't ask me to be the happy version of myself.

She wanted the real me. The raw me.

"I'm glad we met, Quil," she said as we walked to her house.

"Me too, Strawberry," I replied.

She giggled and walked inside.

I made sure to watch out of courtesy, then walked home myself.

When I got home, I was still smiling.

"So, what's her name?" Mom asked, watching me closely.

"What?" I blinked.

Dad gave me the classic we're not stupid look.

I sighed. "Claire. Her name is Claire, and we're just friends."

Mom laughed knowingly. I could hear her thoughts coming from a mile away.

Chapter Text

I wake up to the sound of my alarm clock and just stare at it. Today marks twelve years of our friendship. My best friend—my Rosa—is gone. I thought I was doing okay with her death. I've truly tried my best to keep her spirit alive. I hug my baby blanket tightly to my chest. Emmett gave it back to me after prom night.

I've been trying to stay happy, to enjoy life, but right now... I can't see any joy. The hole in my heart is so big I can barely breathe.

"Autumn," Bella says softly as she turns off my alarm clock, brushing my hair away from my face. I look at her as she sits beside me.

"It's our twelve-year anniversary," I whisper, my voice broken. Bella pulls me into her arms and kisses the top of my head.

I feel so numb. "Bella, we would've skipped school and gone to our spot... just enjoyed the day together," I say, tears running down my face. I remember how Roseanne and I used to beg Sam to help us sneak out of school when we were little. My throat burns with the need to scream.

"Do you want to go to school with me?" Bella asks gently, brushing her thumb against my cheek. I lean into her warmth.

"If you'd rather go home, I can make sure Emmett and Rosalie take you back," she adds softly. I nod.

She kisses my forehead and leaves my room. I'm glad Collin is with Jacob and Billy. I don't want him to see this side of me.

I get myself around to start getting ready, though I skip breakfast with Bella and Dad. I know if I linger any longer, I won't leave the house at all.

I wait in Bella's truck. I'm in no state to drive; I refuse to be the reason someone else loses their loved one. As I wait for her, I take out my phone and scroll through my old text messages with Roseanne, rereading them again and again.

Me:
I am going to kill Paul!

Rosa:
What did he do now?

Me:
He took Collie without asking me and Jake first! He kidnapped our son!

Rosa:
.....

Me:
YOU KNEW?!?!

Rosa:
Hey, at least I am watching them.

Me:
Where are you guys?

Me:
I swear to god if you guys are at the candy store I am going to murder you!

Rosa:
I can't say no to Collie!

Me:
I am calling Sam!

Rosa:
PLEASE NO!!!

Me:
Then leave the candy store and don't kidnap my child!

I just stare at the texts, tears running down my face. What I would do to have Paul and Roseanne kidnap Collin again. More tears spill as I keep reading.

Rosa:
Leo and Michael bullying me again!

Me:
Kick them in the balls (:

Rosa:
I can't or they will cry to mom.

Me:
:|

Next text

Rosa:
We have to be next door neighbors when we get married!

Me:
I am head of you! I am look at houses as we text.

Rosa:
They better be by body of water.

Me:
Girl you are acting like I don't know you!

Rosa:
Send me the links please.

Me:
I will, can't wait when we can move and have kids together and raise them together and grow old together <3

Rosa:
Me too love <3

I press my phone to my chest and let out a shaky breath. My chest tightens, my throat closes up. I can't stop crying. Then I feel someone turn me, cupping my face, wiping my tears away. I see Bella's soft, warm brown eyes.

"Take a deep breath in through your nose and slowly out through your mouth," she says gently, placing my hand over her heart. I close my eyes and follow her directions a few times. My body begins to relax.

"It hurts, Bell... so much," I whisper, hugging her tightly. She rubs my back and kisses the top of my head

"I know, Ausie. I know. And I'm here," she murmurs. I want nothing more than to hide in her arms and shut out the world.

"Let's go to school. Text Rosalie if you want to leave early," she says. I nod in response.

Everyone knows what today is. We always posted pictures of each other on Facebook, and it was the one day Roseanne and I would always skip school.

Tyler glances at me as I sit at my desk. He gives me a weak smile. "How are you feeling?" he asks softly.

I shrug and stare straight ahead. The teacher's voice fades out as I zero in on the chalkboard. The hole in my heart grows bigger, swallowing me whole. I dig my nails into my palms, trying to ground myself. Then a hand touches my arm—I jump, looking up to see Tyler's worried face.

"Are you okay?" he asks again. I try to take a deep breath, but I can't.

"I-I-I need Bella," I stutter, gasping for air. The teacher rushes over.

"Ple-please, I need my sister," I cry out. Tyler bolts out of the room to get Bella.

I squeeze my eyes shut as tightly as I can. My heart races, my chest tightens, I can't breathe. The room spins. Where is Bella?

Then there were soft hands on my face. "Sweet Autumn, look at me," her sweet voice calls. She places my hand over her heartbeat.

"Breathe with me."

I nod and match her breaths—in and out, slow and steady. Air finally fills my lungs. I collapse into her arms, holding on like she's the only thing keeping me alive

"I got you, my sweet Autumn," she says and kisses the top of my head.

"Do you want to go home?" She asks softly. I shake my head. I need to see Roselie and Emmett. I need their cold yet warm hugs.

She hugs me tightly and kisses my forehead. "Love you, sweetie," she says before getting up and heading back to class.

Finally, lunch comes. The moment I see Rosalie and Emmett, I rush to them. Rosalie stands and wraps her arms around me, and I break down, sobbing into her shoulder.

"Shhh, it's okay. I've got you, honey," she whispers gently.

"It hurts so much, Rose. When she died, part of me died with her," I choke out. Emmett steps in, wrapping his strong arms around us, pressing a kiss to the side of my head. I swallow hard and cling to Rosalie even tighter.

In their arms, I feel like I can breathe again... but it isn't the same. I want Roseanne's arms around me, not Rosalie's and Emmett's. I need my Rosa. I need to hear her voice, her sweet laughter again. I just need her. The thought makes me cry even harder.

Rosalie's shirt soaks through with my tears. I can feel people staring at us, but I don't care. "Can you take me home?" I whisper. They both nod and guide me out, taking me home.

When I get inside, I head straight to my room, lay down, and scroll through my phone. Tears blur my vision. I feel like I'm losing control.

Then suddenly, a storm breaks outside. The thunder crashes and lightning flashes, and I start screaming—screaming until my whole body shakes with the force of it. I can't stop. My throat burns, my voice cracks, but the storm only grows worse with me.

"I want Victoria to pay!" I scream until my lungs ache. "For murdering my Rosa—my sweet, beautiful Rosa! She's going to pay!"

After a while, the storm begins to calm. The thunder fades, the lightning stops, leaving only the soft patter of rain. My body feels drained, but I can't stay here. I grab my keys, get in my car, and drive to John and Daisy's house. I need to feel close to her again.

I sit in the car, staring at their home as rain streaks down my windshield. Taking a deep breath, I step out and walk up to the door. Before I can knock, it swings open—Leo standing there with one eyebrow raised.

"Since when do you ever knock?" he asks sarcastically.

I give him a weak smile, tears slipping down my cheeks. He pulls me into his arms, and I close my eyes, letting his warmth wash over me. God, I've missed him so much.

Then Bruce comes barreling toward me, nearly knocking me over. A shaky giggle escapes my lips.

"I missed you too, Brucy," I say, bending down to pet him as he licks my face. I sigh, stand back up, and wipe away the tears still clinging to my skin.

"Can I go in Rosa's room?" I ask. Leo just nods.

With that, I walk to her door. It's closed. My hand trembles as I press it against the wood, tears spilling down my face. God, I wish I could go back in time. I would've told her—just stay with Quil. Please, just stay.

I slowly push the door open, and the moment I see inside, my chest caves in. Her room hasn't changed. Her bed is still a mess, her makeup scattered across the desk, her favorite book resting in the reading chair like she just left it there yesterday.

I walk over to her desk, fingers brushing across the surface before I touch her laptop. My throat feels tight as I swallow and power it on. Somehow, I still remember her login.

The screen comes to life and the first thing I see is her wallpaper. It's a picture of her and Quil on their first date at La Push beach. My lips tremble.

Then, a folder catches my eye. My Digital Diary.

I click on it and I cover my mouth. She has each folder name after us.

The best mom in the world.

I will always be daddy's girl.

My favorite big brother Blake.

The most annoying brother Michael.

Leo my rock.

My forever girl Autumn.

My dearest Quil.

My fierce protector Sam.

The brother that I didn't know I need Paul.

My joker Embry.

My dumbass Jared.

Pain in my ass Jacob.

My sunshine boy Seth.

My badass girl Leah.

The sister I never had Bella.

Luna my dearest sister.

Kimberly my crazy girl

Rachel the calm twin

Rebecca the wild twin

Collin my sweetheart.

Brady my nerd boy.

Charlie my second dad.

Billy my funny old man.

Oh my God. She documented everything. She left us pieces of herself we can hold onto—notes, pictures, videos. Memories frozen in time.

I open one of the videos. It's me, warming up before a cross-country meet. Jared's head gets in the way.

"Jared, move your fat ass head!" Roseanne's voice cuts in, playful and annoyed.

Jared huffs in the background while my coach talks to me, and I laugh. In the distance, I can hear Sam and Luna arguing over whether I'll beat my last time. The gun goes off, and the cheering begins.

"She'd be an Olympic medalist if she didn't want to be an ER doctor for kids," Seth says.

"That's what I told her," Jacob adds proudly.

"She's a natural," Paul says, and Daisy smiles at him.

Then the camera zooms in as I'm in first place. "GO AUTUMN, GO!!!" Embry yells at the top of his lungs. My legs burn, but I push harder and cross the finish line, smashing my record by ten minutes. The camera shakes as Jacob rushes to me, scooping me up and spinning me around while I laugh breathlessly.

End video.

Tears blur my vision as I watch video after video. I stop at one where Roseanne and I are screaming the lyrics to Toxic by Britney Spears, the boys hyping us up like we're rockstars.

When it ends, I just sit there, staring at the screen. My chest aches. It's like she knew. Like she knew she wouldn't be here for long, so she left these pieces behind for us.

As I got up, I turn and see Paul staring at me. I freeze.

Paul is standing in the doorway. He looks... different. Bigger. Stronger. His hair is cut short—the hair Rosa loved so much. If it were still long, I know she'd be braiding it, playing with it, laughing.

Relief hits me first—he's okay. Then sadness, because he looks so damn tired. Then anger. Because he was there for Emerson. But not for me. Not for Jacob. Not for Collin. Not for Dad or Bella.

My glare hardens. He looks away, ashamed.

"I'm sorry, Ausie," he says, voice broken.

My eyes soften for a moment but only a moment. I want hug him, but anger boils inside me, remembering the abandonment I've felt for days.

"Don't call me that!" I snap. "You lost that right when you abandoned me. When I needed you the most."

His jaw tightens, eyes flashing with the same anger I feel. "I didn't want to, but I had to."

I shake my head, bitterness flooding my chest. Bullshit. I push past him.

"Autumn, please," he begs, desperation in his voice. He tries to grab my wrist to stop me from leaving, but I yank it from his grasp.

I spin around, screaming, my voice cracking under the weight of everything inside me. We were inches apart. My heart pouring out. "I NEEDED YOU AND YOU WEREN'T THERE!" I roughly poke at his chest three times, emphasizing my point.

Tears streak down his face as he takes my little tantrum. "I was there... the funeral. I was there..." His voice sounded small and weak. I could tell he was tired, but I was tired too.

I shake my head again, choking on my own sobs. I need to leave before I say something I'll regret.

I turn and walk out to my car. I didn't bother looking back. I don't know where I plan on going, but I can't be there with Paul. He left me when I need him the most.

Storming past him, I head outside, but a sudden brush against my arm makes me jump. I whip around and see Bruce.

"Goddammit, Bruce, you scared the shit out of me," I whisper, crouching to kiss his big head as he licks my face. I manage a weak smile. This dog is something else. I let him join me, letting him hop in.

I drive aimlessly until I end up at my favorite café by La Push beach. Bruce trots in behind me like he owns the place, kids flocking to him, petting him like he's a celebrity. Everyone loves Bruce-it's no surprise he's La Push's favorite rottweiler.

I order a drink and an ice water for him, then sit in a booth. Bruce lays his head on my leg as I open my laptop and start editing a video for Roseanne.

That's when I hear it. A sharp, angry voice cutting through the hum of the café.

I look up.

A redheaded girl is standing at the counter—her whole body radiating fury.

"I said no, jackass!" the girl yells, her voice sharp enough to cut through the café noise. The man glares at her and grabs her arm roughly.

I shoot up from my booth before I even think about it, my body moving on instinct. I walk over quickly and slide my arms around her like I belong there. "Babe, there you are. I've been looking for you," I say, kissing her cheek lightly.

The man's lip curls in disgust. "You're one of them," he spits, his words heavy with hatred. The urge to grab the girl's face and kiss her right on the lips just to piss him off is almost overwhelming.

"We've been together three years, right babe?" I ask, keeping my tone casual.

She catches on immediately and flashes me a sweet smile. "And those three years have been the best years of my life, sugar," she says smoothly. She's good. If I wasn't with Jacob, I'd probably fall for her.

Bruce growls low and deep, making the man step back. With one last hateful glare, he storms off.

I let out a shaky breath I hadn't realized I was holding. "Are you okay?" I ask gently.

She rubs her arm where he grabbed her and nods. "Yeah. Thank you for that. I'm Claire."

"I'm Autumn," I say, smiling softly.

Her expression softens. "I know. I'm... I'm sorry for your loss."

The words sting, but I force a tight smile and nod.

"Do you want to sit with me?" I ask after a moment. She hesitates, then nods.

We walk back to my booth. Bruce, the traitor, immediately lays his head on Claire's lap. She giggles when he licks her face. "You're so cute," she coos, scratching behind his ears.

I pick my laptop back up, trying to focus on editing the video for Roseanne. But the laughter that spills from Claire's lips only makes me ache more. God, I miss her laugh. Her smile. My sunshine, my other half. The tears slip down before I even notice them.

Claire notices, though. She slides over to my side of the booth and wraps her arms around me without a word.

"Today... today's our anniversary," I whisper hoarsely. "Twelve years of friendship." My throat burns, and more tears spill down.

"Me and Rosa would always skip school together, go to our favorite spots, spend the whole day like the world didn't matter. When we were little, we'd beg Sam to help us sneak out and take us to our spot in the woods. There's this clearing—it's beautiful, quiet. It was ours. Where we could breathe..."

My voice cracks, my body trembling. "She was my everything. When she died, part of me died too. There's this hole in my chest I can't ever fill."

Claire wipes the tears off my cheeks with gentle fingers.

"God, I'm a mess," I laugh brokenly, shaking my head.

She shakes hers right back. "You lost your best friend. You're allowed to be a mess." She pulls me tighter against her chest.

"I try so hard to keep her spirit alive by living my life to the fullest," I whisper. "But today, I just can't." My eyes sting, raw from crying.

"You don't have to be strong every second," Claire says softly. "You're allowed to fall apart. You're allowed to let someone hold you."

Her words hit deep, and I finally let out a long breath. "Thank you," I murmur.

She gives me a small smile. The rain outside finally eases to a gentle drizzle, sunlight trying to peek through.

"Want to take a walk on the beach?" Claire asks.

I nod.

We walk side by side down the damp sand, Bruce bounding happily ahead of us, and we trade stories. For the first time all day, the ache in my chest feels just a little lighter. Quil was lucky to find someone like her.

"It was nice to laugh again," I say as Claire picks up a seashell.

"It's like Roseanne sent me here to find you and Quil," she says with a smile. Knowing Roseanne, she probably did.

"So how come you live in La Push and not Forks?" I ask, throwing a stick for Bruce. She takes a sip of her hot cocoa.

"My mom is going through a nasty divorce with my dad. Her friend Lisa offered her a place to stay," she says, closing her eyes.

"I'm so sorry, Claire," I say softly. She just shrugs, and I let out a sigh.

"Since you go to La Push High, you need to meet my friends—Luna and Zach, Kim and Seth, Layla, and my boyfriend Jacob. They'll love you," I say.

"I'd love that, thank you," she replies and hugs me. I feel ten times lighter after talking to her. It's nice to talk about Roseanne without having to keep it together.

We exchange phone numbers and then go our separate ways. I get in my car and text the group chat with Dad, Bella, and Jacob.

Me:
I will be at my and Rosa's favorite spot.

Dad:
Okay be safe baby girl love you.

Bells:
Like dad say be safe okay I love you.

Jake:
Collie say good night and love you.

Me:
I will and love you guys more.

With that, I head to the Emersons' house first to drop off Bruce, who looks disappointed.

"I'm sorry, buddy, but your family misses you," I say. He huffs.

John walks toward me and pulls me into a hug. "How are you feeling?" he asks.

"I don't know, honestly," I admit. He nods and kisses the top of my head just as Daisy pulls me into her arms.

"Please come by more often. I miss you so much," she says, and a tear slips down my face. She's the mom I always wanted.

"I will, I promise. Love you," I say, kissing their cheeks before Bruce runs inside the house.

As I drive to mine and Rosa's spot, I can't help but wonder how Sam is feeling. Rosa was like a little sister to him. I sigh, staring through my windshield as the road blurs past.

When I finally arrive, I park the car and walk the familiar path. The waterfall looks beautiful at night, the stars shimmering across the water.

I sit under the tree and stare at the falls, memories of me and Rosa laughing as we swam crashing into me. Everything—stress, pain, fear—it all comes crushing down at once.

I scream my lungs out, scream until my throat burns. And then I sob. I just want my best friend back.

Something stirs nearby, and I turn to see the same black wolf. That strange pull I felt when I first looked into its eyes—it's even stronger now. The wolf lets out a soft whimper, and for some reason, it reminds me of Sam.

"Are you stalking me, wolfy?" I ask. The wolf huffs, and I let out a broken laugh. Patting the ground beside me, I wait. The wolf hesitates, then moves closer and lays its head on my leg.

"My best friend is dead... and a couple of my other friends left me," I whisper. The wolf's eyes shine with sadness. I wrap my arms around it tightly. Somehow, I just know it won't hurt me.

I cry into its fur, missing Rosa and the boys. Losing her felt like losing them too.

The wolf curls around me, almost like it's trying to hug me back.

"You remind me of someone," I whisper. "His name is Sam. He was like a big brother to me. He did everything he could to keep me safe, to make me feel loved. But he abandoned me when I needed him most." My tears soak into its fur.

"I'm so angry and hurt that he left. And Bella... she's not taking it well either. She feels like she deserved it. He was the first person who understood her, who defended her against our group. God, I hate that she feels like she doesn't deserve love. He made her believe something was wrong with her when he walked away." My voice drips with bitterness.

The wolf whimpers and tightens his hold on me, resting his head against my back and pushing me into his chest, like he's trying to hold me together. I dig my nails into his fur and close my eyes.

We stay like that for a while. The night air grows colder, and I finally sigh and pull away. The wolf looks at me with so much emotion that my chest aches. I cup his face.

"Why are you sad, wolfy?" I whisper.

He nudges my cheek just enough to lick me.

I giggle. "You are so cute, wolfy."

The wolf rolls his eyes.

"I'm calling you Teddy."If looks could kill, I'd be dead. I laugh so hard.

"What? You're big, fluffy, cuddly." He glares at me, and I laugh harder. "Teddy bear," I tease. He gives me the side-eye.

"Teddy or Teddy bear. Pick one."

He glares but huffs.

"Teddy?" I ask. He nods and huffs again.

I smile as I stand up. The stars are out, bright and beautiful. My chest tightens as I think of Roseanne. She would've taken a hundred pictures of the sky with her pro camera. Tears slip down my cheeks before I even realize it. Teddy brushes his head against my shoulder, towering over me.

"Jesus, you're huge," I murmur. He huffs, and I smile, petting his side. "Rosa would've tried to climb on you like you were a jungle gym." I laugh at the thought. Teddy tilts his head.

"Yeah, she would've. Rosa was something else, I swear."

Teddy huffs, and I smile softly.

"I haven't gone to her grave," I admit, staring at the water. "It makes it too real. Rachel and Rebecca didn't even go to the funeral—they didn't want to face the reality that Rosa is gone. They want to pretend she's waiting at home."

Teddy lowers his head gently on top of mine. I smile at the gesture.

"I'll go someday. But not yet. Here... it still feels like she's around. Like I can look at that tree and see her hanging upside down, laughing her head off." My gaze drifts to Rosa's favorite tree. Yes, she had a favorite tree.

Teddy looks at me with so much love it nearly chokes me.

"I should go before Dad hunts me down," I murmur. His eyes sparkle with humor.

I rub his neck, then slip into my car and drive away. Teddy's howl follows me through the night. I smile and wave, even though he can't see me.

When I walk into the house, it's 10 p.m. already. Holy shit.

Dad is sitting in his chair. "I'm sorry," I say quickly. "Time got away from me. I just... felt close to Rosa at our spot."

He nods. "It's okay. Just give us hourly check-ins."

I nod and hug him tightly. I would be so lost without him. He kisses my forehead.

"Collin's with Jacob—because Collin's grounded," Dad says, shocking me.

"WHAT?!?!" I ask sharply. "What the hell happened?"

"He got in a fight with a classmate about what makes a family," Dad explains.

"Shit. I'll talk to him tomorrow about that," I say. Dad nods as I head toward Bella's room.

Inside, I see Leah cuddling Bella. I can't help but smile. They look so much more natural together than Bella and Edward ever did. Bella looks up and opens her arms for me.

I go to her, letting the tears fall as she holds me.
"I saw Paul today," I whisper. "He looks so different. He cut his hair, and he's so much bigger. Stronger."

"What?! You saw Paul?" Leah asks, eyes wide. I nod, swallowing hard.

"He said he can't be around me, but he can be around the Emersons." My voice cracks with bitterness. The hurt still burns. Bella holds me tighter.

"I'm going to murder him!" Leah explodes. "He knows your abandonment issues and he still did this to you?" She's furious.

I shake my head. "He's not worth the fight. He chose to leave us." My voice breaks. Bella hugs me tighter.

"I'm so sorry, Ausie," she whispers, kissing the top of my head.

We cuddle together until sleep takes us.

 

Sam

I watch my girls sleep, and it breaks me. Knowing I've hurt them—especially Bella and Autumn—feels unbearable. But I have to keep them safe. Keep them safe from me.

I hurt Emily. I can't bear the thought of hurting my Swans girls—or Leah. I sigh and rest my head on my paws as Jared and Embry wrestle behind me.

'One of them is going to figure it out,' Paul says through the pack bond. 'They're the smartest girls.'

'I know. But how long will it take?' I reply.

'Not long. Autumn already said your wolf reminds her of you.'

'Yeah. And she called my wolf Teddy,' I admit, which makes the boys laugh.

'I can't believe she called you that,' Jared cackles. 

'I mean it's Autumn, are you surprised? I wonder what Kim would name my wolf,' He adds.

'Probably Lucky,' I tease. He huffs.

'Blake calls mine Beauty,' Paul says with so much affection it seals my theory—Blake must be his imprintee.

'Awww, you're in love,' Jared teases.

'I'm not in love with him! I'm seeing a girl named Jules,' He snaps, shocking us all.

Suddenly, his memories of her flash through our minds.

A beautiful blonde girl walks up to him, worry in her eyes. "Paul?" she asks softly. She touches his arm, and he flinches.

"Hey, it's okay. You're safe," she soothes, pressing his forehead against her chest and holding him close. "What happened?" she asks, touching his face.

"I got in a fight," he groans as she patches him up.

"Paul..." she whispers.

"I know. I just snapped." He looks down. "I'm becoming like him." His voice is bitter. She grabs his face firmly.

"You're nothing like him, do you hear me?!" she says sharply. 

He sighs, then smiles faintly, kissing her forehead. "Thank you, baby," he murmurs.

Another flash—Jules dancing in the rain with three little kids, laughing and twirling.

"Come on, Paul, join us!" she shouts, laughing as the kids pull at her arms to keep moving.

"Nope, I like to stay dry," he calls back.

She walks up to him and pulls on his arm. "Come and enjoy life!" He laughs and spins her around in the rain.

More memories flood us—her volunteering at homeless shelters, caring for animals, reading about other cultures.

How the hell did he find her? She's everything he's not. Sunshine, while he's midnight rain.

'How the hell did she agree to see you? She's so out of your league!' Embry blurts.

'Shut up, asshole!' Paul snaps back.

I tune them out and keep my focus on my girls. Because I can't lose them.

Chapter Text

I don't know why I'm walking down the aisle. I'm not graduating anytime soon. It should be Bella getting her diploma, not me. I glance around and see everyone... everyone except Roseanne.

Then it hits me. We won't walk down the graduation aisle together like we planned. The thought crushes me. Suddenly Sam, Paul, Jared, and Embry start fading away too, disappearing one by one.

My heart races, my breaths coming heavier and heavier, before everything collapses on me.

I turn my head and see a woman with hazel-green eyes and long, beautiful dark-brown hair staring at me. I feel this pull toward her and get up, walking closer.

"Who are you?" I ask.

She smiles sadly. "You are so beautiful," she whispers, sadness filling her striking eyes. She closes the gap between us, cups my face gently, and says, "You grew up so fast." Her voice carries so much love it nearly breaks me.

That's when a man with electric-blue eyes walks toward us.

"Love, you know better than visiting her in her dreams," he says softly. Then his eyes shift to me—eyes so full of love it's choking. He steps closer as the woman steps back. He lays his hand on my cheek.

"My little beauty," he murmurs, his voice thick with emotion.

Before I can say anything, a voice cuts through the dream—

"AUSIEEEEE! WAKE UP!!!"

The scene shatters, and I jolt awake to see Collin jumping on me.

Later, I learn why he punches his classmate. Honestly, I'm proud—he's standing on business. The kid had been going on about how it's a "sin" to have two moms or two dads, saying a real family can only be blood. So Collin decks him. I secretly take him out for ice cream after, though Dad definitely doesn't approve.

"I'm up," I groan, yawning.

Collin grins with mischief sparkling in his eyes. I narrow mine just as he grabs my water bottle and dumps water all over my face. Before I can react, he smashes whipped cream into my face and bolts.

I leap up and chase after him. "COLLIN A. LITTLESEA!!!" I scream, racing downstairs with whipped cream sliding down my face.

Emmett is doubled over laughing.

"You owe me ten bucks, Em!" Collin shouts proudly.

Rosalie just rolls her eyes. "Boys," she mutters as Emmett wraps an arm around her. She hands me a paper towel, shaking her head.

"You love us," Emmett teases. She side-eyes him.

That's when I notice Edward. My skin crawls under his gaze—it makes me deeply uncomfortable. Without thinking, I lean into Emmett's side. He instantly wraps his arms around me and kisses the top of my head, silently shielding me.

I glance at the clock. "Shit—I need to take Collin to school."

Just then, I hear a truck pull up outside. I look out and see Jacob. I bolt out the door as he climbs out of the truck. He opens his arms, and I jump into them, laughing as he spins me around. He's been gone for two days, visiting Clover Park Technical College.

He wants to get into the best university for auto mechanics. I'm so proud of how far he's come.

He peppers kisses all over my face before Collin yells, "MY TURN!" and pushes me aside, making me laugh.

Jacob scoops Collin up into his arms, hugging him tight. "I miss you too, buddy. Were you good for Ausie and Papa?" he asks, setting him down. Collin suddenly looks guilty.

"I didn't hit anyone..." he says, giving Jacob his most innocent eyes.

"Collin, what did you do?" Jacob asks. Before Collin can answer, Emmett grabs him, flips him upside down, and starts tickling his stomach. Collin squeals with laughter.

"He's been my partner in crime!" Emmett announces proudly.

Jacob sighs. "And here I thought Paul would be the bad influence."

I shake my head. "Alright, you need to take Collin to school or I'm going to be late for class." I lean in and kiss Jacob softly.

"Can you not do that in front of me!" Collin blurts out in disgust.

"Collie, you'll understand when you have a lover," I tease. He rolls his eyes dramatically.

With that, I hand Jacob Collin's backpack. I kiss Collin's forehead, then Jacob's lips one more time.

"Drive safe. Love you boys," I say.

"Love you more," they answer in unison.

Smiling, I turn to Emmett. "If you dare him to do anything stupid again, I'll only keep fish blood in my snack drawer," I whisper-yell, making sure Dad can't hear.

His eyes go wide. "You wouldn't!"

I give him my sweetest smile and blink innocently.

He narrows his eyes. "Fine. You win."

Dad comes outside with my backpack in hand. "Drive safe, baby girl," he says, kissing my forehead.

I climb into my car. Normally, I'd ride with Emmett and Rosalie, but I have errands to run. Edward is riding with Bella, and I can't shake off the feeling he's going to do something.

But what really weighs on me is that dream. The couple who looked at me with such overwhelming emotion—I can't shake them from my mind. I feel this strange connection to them, one I can't explain.

"Earth to Autumn."

I blink and look up to see Tyler watching me.

"Are you okay? You've been zoning out a lot," he says, concern lacing his voice.

"I can't stop thinking about a dream I had," I admit, fiddling with my notebook.

"What was it about?" he asks gently.

"I was at my graduation," I say slowly. "There was this couple staring at me. Not in a creepy way—more like... sadness." My fingers twist my bracelet.

Tyler raises an eyebrow. "Did they say anything?"

I nod. "The woman said I looked beautiful. And the man called me 'little beauty.'"

Tyler hums. "That's... weird."

"I feel like I'm going insane, Ty," I blurt, my voice cracking.

He pulls me into a side hug. "You're not going insane. You've just been dealing with too much."

I give him a tiny smile. "Thank you, Ty," I whisper.

We walk to the cafeteria together. I lean against him, drained to my core. He wraps an arm around me protectively. Tyler is becoming like a big brother to me... but he can never be what Sam once was.

Bella still texts Sam, even though he never replies. It breaks my heart to see her clinging to hope after three months of silence. She believes he'll come back to us, especially since I ran into Paul. She's not giving up on them.

Me and Tyler grab food together. He slips some vegetables and fruit onto my plate and hands me apple juice. I shoot him a grateful look. He just smiles softly and kisses the side of my head.

I don't know what I'd do without Tyler.

When we reach our table, Bella immediately pulls me into a hug.

"What's wrong, Ausie?" she asks, brushing my hair away from my face. I lean into her touch, exhausted.

I glance around at the group. Rosalie and Emmett watch me with deep worry. Angela and Jessica look at me with sympathy. Mike and Eric just look confused. Alice studies me carefully, trying to find the right words. Jasper, though, looks like he's holding his breath.

Edward's gaze locks on me, and there's an evil glint in his eyes. My skin crawls. I lean into Emmett's side, seeking his protection. Without hesitation, he wraps his arms around me, holding me close. I cling to him as tears slide down my face.

Through broken words, I explain my strange dream and tell them about running into Paul. Rosalie's eyes darken with fury.

"You're telling me that Paul said he can't be around you but he can be around the Emersons?! He's a fake-ass friend! How could he do that to you?" she explodes.

Tears burn my cheeks. "He looked and sounded so different... he's not the Paul I know and love," I whisper, twisting the bracelet on my wrist. Rosalie looks like she's ready to rip someone's head off.

Sensing the tension, Alice jumps in. "You said you saw a couple in your dreams, and you can't get them out of your head?"

I nod. "It felt like I should know who they are—like they know me. The man called me 'little beauty.'" I shrug, frustrated.

"Draw them," Alice suggests. I glance at her, surprised. "I do that when I can't get an image out of my head," she adds.

A weak smile tugs at my lips. "Thanks, Alice." She nods and lays her hand on mine, giving it a comforting squeeze.

As I eat my school lunch, Emmett slides me his hard-boiled eggs like always. I unwrap the bag and take a big bite. But as soon as I swallow, my throat tightens. I cough, choking. I claw at my throat as hives break out across my arms.

Shouts erupt around me. Cold hands cup my face, forcing me to focus. Bella's panicked eyes meet mine.

She digs through my backpack frantically. "I can't find her EpiPen!" she screams.

"What do you mean you can't find it, Bella?!" Rosalie shouts, dumping the bag out and scattering everything.

My chest heaves. My throat burns like fire. My eyes sting and blur with tears. I blink slowly up at Emmett's panicked face.

"Autumn, stay with me!" he pleads, his cold hands pressing to my forehead.

A student sprints over. "HERE—TAKE IT!" he yells, thrusting an EpiPen forward.

Bella snatches it and jabs it into my thigh. "Come on, come on," she chants desperately.

Air rushes back into my lungs. My chest expands as I suck in a ragged breath and sag into Emmett's arms.

Paramedics arrive moments later. "She's had an EpiPen," Bella explains quickly.

"Good. We'll still take her to the hospital to monitor her," one of them says.

2 hours later

Carlisle finishes examining me. "You're very lucky that student had a spare EpiPen. Otherwise... you might not have made it," he says grimly.

I nod weakly. It's the truth.

From down the hall, I hear someone shouting. "I'M HER BOYFRIEND! PLEASE LET ME SEE HER!"

A tired smile tugs at my lips. Carlisle chuckles softly. "I guess he's yours," he says with warmth.

I nod, and Carlisle calls for them to let Jacob in. He rushes to my side and pulls me into his arms.

"Can you please stop scaring the hell out of me? My heart can't take it," he mumbles into my hair.

A shaky laugh escapes me. "Sorry, Jakey," I rasp, still getting used to my voice again. He hugs me tighter, and then Dad walks in. He pulls me from Jacob into his own arms. I melt against his chest, letting out a shaky breath.

"Why were you eating peanuts? You know you're allergic," Dad says, signing paperwork without looking up.

My brows furrow. "I wasn't. I was eating an egg Emmett gave me."

Dad glances at me. "Does he know you're allergic to peanuts?"

"I think so," I murmur as we walk to his cruiser.

"Then we'll need to remind him—if he touches peanuts, he has to wash his hands before giving you anything," Dad says firmly.

When we get home, Bella pulls in with Brady, and Collin jumps out of her truck with him. Immediately, they shove each other.

"I had it first!" Brady yells. Collin glares at him.

"I called dibs on it first, asshat!" Collin shoots back. I blink. What the hell.

"Boys, knock it off!" I snap, pointing at them.

"He took my comic book!" Brady stomps his foot.

"I told you I'm getting it first!" Collin shoves Brady again, and my mouth drops open in shock.

"COLLIN, NO PUSHING BRADY!" I yell. He looks down, guilty.

"Here," Bella says, handing me a bag with the new Star Wars comic book. I shake my head.

"Welcome to the life of being a parent, baby girl," Dad says, patting my shoulder before walking inside the house.

I look at my boys. "This is mine now until you two apologize to each other and agree to share this comic book," I say firmly. They look at each other.

"Sorry," they mutter at the same time. I hand Collin the bag.

"If I hear you two fighting, I'll take it back. Do you understand me?" I ask. They both bob their heads quickly and scurry inside the house.

Jacob wraps his arms around me. "You've got the mom look down," he says, kissing me softly. I laugh.

Layla

I look at Seth number as Trevor is in the shower. My right eye are swollen Trevor never lay a hand on me until now and I am scared. He isolate me I can't go to my family I burn bridges with them.

Tears running down my face what if Seth gets hurt because of me. But I don't want to die. I take a deep breath and  grab my backpack and I can't put my shoes on I don't have time. I ran out of his house in my PJs.

I call Seth.

"Hello?" He ask.

I let out a shaky breath, "Seth I need you" I say as I run faster.

"Where are you?" He sounds more alert I told him where I am.

"I am only 5 minutes away hung on pretty girl hung on. And don't hung up." I nodded.

"LAYLA GET BACK HERE!!!" Trevor screams I run faster my feet hurts then I feel something stab my feet I yelp in pain but I keep pushing.

I see Subaru wrx 1998 coming towards me I see Seth in passenger seat and Leah in the driver seat. Leah whip the car around and slam on the breaks.

Seth jumps out and push Trevor way from me. "If you touch her again I am going to kill you!" He says too calmly.

"She is my girlfriend! Back off!" Trevor got in his face.

Leah got out and pull me away from the fight. I whimper in pain.

"What wrong?" She ask as she takes me in the seat.

"Something is in my foot" I rely back she nods and takes a first aid kit and starts to patch me up when Seth punch Trevor.

"DON'T YOU EVER TALK ABOUT HER IN THAT WAY!!!" Seth yells and walks to us.

"Are you okay pretty girl" I nodded and wrap my arms around him.

He moves us more in the car. Leah gets in and drives off. I close my eyes and takes a deep breath as Seth rubs my back and kiss my forehead.

I am safe now.

Autumn 

As I clean up the dishes after dinner, I look up and see Teddy standing under our tree. I smile. I love my big wolfy—he reminds me so much of Sam. It hurts, but it also makes me feel closer to Sam, like he's here with me.

I dry my hands, grab my hoodie, and walk outside to Teddy. We wander a little deeper into the woods behind my house. I inhale and exhale, letting something inside me calm as I walk alongside him.

I tell him about my day. He rubs his head against my shoulder, making me laugh. He's so cute.

"You know, you make me feel less alone. Don't get me wrong—I love my friends and family and my amazing boyfriend. But I miss Sam... and Jared... and Embry," I say, choking up a little.

"Paul says he can't be around me but can be around the Emersons! I want to punch his stupid ass in the face! But Roseanne would be disappointed in me," I grumble, making Teddy snarl gently.

I smile and rub his neck. He presses his head gently against my cheek.

"AUTUMN MARIA SWAN, GET YOUR ASS BACK IN THE HOUSE!" Dad yells, making me cringe.

"I'm in trouble... wish me luck, Teddy," I say, walking toward the house. Teddy howls, and it makes me feel warm inside.

"You know better than to go outside in the dark!" Dad scolds. I nod.

"Sorry," I mutter and head to bed. As I drift off, I hear other howls echoing through the night.

Emmett

I never touch anything with peanuts. Charlie told me that the next time I touch peanuts, I need to wash my hands. But I never touch peanuts. I glance at Edward, then at Rosalie.

Rosalie and I go on a hunt. After finishing drinking blood from a lion, Rosalie speaks.

"I just know he did something to your egg. I know he did something to it... and took her EpiPen. She never leaves the house without one," she says, wiping blood from her face.

I nod. "We can't leave her alone with Edward at all," I say, looking up at the full moon.

I wrap my arms around my beautiful angel. "If he dares to hurt her, I will kill him," I growl.

"I call dibs on ripping his head off," Rosalie says, making me laugh.

Chapter Text

I open my eyes and smile so big — today is Bella’s birthday! I get up, run into her room, and jump on her bed, making her groan.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BELLA! YOU’RE NINETEEN!” I scream.

She pushes me off her, and I grin like a fucking idiot.

“Go away,” she says in an annoyed tone.

I smile even more. “Nope! Come on, today’s the best day for you!” I say cheerfully.

She side-eyes me. “It means I’m getting old,” she says, crossing her arms.

I roll my eyes. “Getting old is normal — like, super normal.” I sit on her bed.

She sighs, and that’s when Dad walks in with a birthday present. Bella eyes it suspiciously.

“I told you guys not to make a big deal about my birthday,” she mumbles.

“Bella, why are you so against celebrating your birthday?” Dad asks.

“I just don’t want to celebrate it,” she says, looking sad.

I swear, if Edward made her insecure about aging, I’m going to kill him.

“Okay, but please take the gift, please,” Dad pleads.

Bella sighs, opens her gift, and smiles. “Scrapbooking materials? Oh my God, I love it! Thank you!” she says, smiling at Dad.

“Of course, Bell.”

She gets up and hugs Dad — that’s when Collin comes into her room, nearly knocking her over.

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BELLS!” he beams.

 “Awww, thank you, Collie,” she says, picking him up and kissing his forehead.

I glare. “You hug and kiss him for wishing you happy birthday, but you shove me off your bed!” I grumble under my breath.

“First, you jumped on top of me and yelled in my ear,” she replies, “and secondly, I could never hate Collie — he’s my sweet potato.” She kisses Collie’s cute little face again.

“I made you something, Bell!” Collin says, running out of the room and coming back in with a handmade birthday card. It has his handprint as a cake.

Tears fill her eyes as she  reads the card.

Happy birthday, Bells.

You are the best big sister ever. Love you to the moon and back.

“Collie, this is beautiful. I love it so much,” she murmur softly, kissing his forehead. He beams at her.

“Look at the back!” he says excitedly.

She do, and oh my God — this boy is trying to make me sob. There’s a handmade bookmark with colorful leaves that says, "Be your own kind of beautiful, Bells, with a red heart next to it."

She hug him tightly. “This is the best gift I’ve ever gotten. I love you, sweetheart.”

I take a picture of the moment — my two favorite people sharing something so sweet.

Collin pulls away and smiles. “Come on, let’s go or our food will get cold!” he says, running out of her room, making us laugh.

That boy loves his food, especially breakfast.

Before we walk downstairs, I pull Bella into my room and grab her gift. She looks at the bag.

“Autumn—” she starts, but I cut her off.

“Please, Bella,” I beg.

She sighs and opens the bag. When she pulls out the drawing I made of us — we’re little, sitting on her bed, me jumping while she plays guitar — tears start running down her face.

“Oh, sweet Autumn, I have no words. This is everything,” she mumbles, her voice trembling.

Then she takes out the bracelet I made for her. It has a yellow hibiscus on it with our initials, BS and AS. More tears stream down her cheeks.

“My God, Aussie, I love it. Thank you so much,” she rasps out and hugs me tightly.

She pulls away and goes to her room, hanging the drawing by her desk and putting up the birthday card Collin made her.

We walk downstairs, and oh my God — it smells so good. I see Jacob helping Collin make his plate of food, and my eyes soften at the sight. Collin’s body relaxes, leaning against Jacob’s side. It took him a while to get comfortable around us, and now he leans on Jacob without even realizing it.

Bella wraps her arm around my shoulder. “You and Jacob will be amazing parents one day,” she says gently.

I look at her. “Thank you, Bella,” I say softly.

Jacob grabs a bag, and Bella groans. “Jacob! Seriously!?”

He laughs. “Bells, please take it. Please.”

She takes a deep breath and opens the bag, pulling out a dreamcatcher. “Oh my God, this is beautiful, Jacob. Thank you.”

Collin beams. “He handmade it!”

Bella’s eyes widen. “Oh my God, really!?”

Jacob smiles as Collin nods quickly. “I watched him make it!”

Jacob laughs. “I guess I have a huge fan.”

Dad laughs too. “He’s your biggest fan.”

With that, we eat our breakfast together. The table is full of laughter. I’ve never seen Bella laugh this much until now.

“All right, we need to go, or we’ll be late to school,” Jacob says, looking at Collin, who sighs heavily.

“But da—Jake,” Collin says.

We all look at him. Did he almost call Jacob dad? Oh my God. Jacob glances at me, tears in his eyes.

With time, he’ll call us Mom and Dad. We just need to give him more time. But that slip-up means everything to us. Jacob hugs him tightly and kisses the top of his head. I look over at Bella, and she has tears in her eyes too.

I park my car next to Bella’s truck. Tyler walks over to us, smiling brightly.

“Good morning, Swan girls,” he greets with a big smile.

“Good morning,” I say and hug him. He smiles and kisses the side of my head. I lean into him. He’s really become my rock over the three months Sam’s been gone.

Mike, Eric, Jessica, and Angela come over, and we start talking about having a small bonfire. I nod, leaning my weight on Tyler, smiling as Bella teases Jessica and Mike about their PDA.

Then Edward walks over to our group. I narrow my eyes — if he ruins this moment, I swear I’m going to kill his pale ass.

Tyler senses my discomfort and pulls me closer to him.

“Happy birthday, love,” Edward says, making our group fall silent.

Bella didn’t tell them today was her birthday.

“Today’s your birthday!?” Jessica says sharply. “Didn’t you tell us? We would’ve planned something for you!” she adds, looking hurt.

“I didn’t want to make a big deal about it, Jessica,” Bella says, trying to soften her tone.

“And if you guys did, my family and I already planned something for her. I can’t believe you didn’t even know when her birthday is. What great friends you are,” Edward sneers at them.

Angela looks down in shame, and Bella growls at Edward.

“I never told them, Edward! Stop being rude to my friends!” she yells.

He shakes his head and hands her a box. “Your birthday gift.”

Bella sighs and opens the box. Inside is a silver diamond bracelet. She gives him a tight smile. “Thank you, Edward.”

I can tell she hates it. I cover my mouth, trying to hold in my laugh. Tyler looks down at me, his eyes full of laughter too.

Edward puts the bracelet on her wrist, right next to the one I gave her. She looks pissed — and honestly, offended — knowing he did it on purpose.

“Come on, Bella, it looks so much nicer than that thing,” Edward murmurs.

“No! Autumn handmade it, so it’s ten times better than an expensive one! It actually holds value!” Bella says, outraged.

“Sorry, love,” he apologizes quickly.

She narrows her eyes. “I’m truly sorry,” he adds, quieter this time.

With that, we all head to our classes.

Tyler lays his head on his desk and closes his eyes.

“Is everything okay, Ty?” I ask gently.

He turns his head toward me. “My mom’s in the hospital,” he says, his voice breaking.

I gasp. “Oh my God — what happened?”

“She… she might have cancer,” he gasps out, tears in his eyes.

I pull him into my arms, and he just breaks, tears streaming down his face. Our teacher, Mrs. McNamara, walks over to us.

“If you need to, you can step out of the room,” she says gently.

We quietly walk out of the classroom. He slides down to the floor, and I wrap my arms around him. He holds onto me tightly. I’ve never seen Tyler like this, and it breaks my heart.

After a few moments, he calms down and looks up at me.

“I can’t lose my mom… she’s my best friend, and it would destroy my dad,” his voice cracks.

I wipe his tears away, staring into his beautiful dark brown eyes. “I know, Tyler. I know. And I’m here for you,” I say softly.

We stay like that for a while.

“Thank you, Autumn,” he whispers. I smile and nod.

“Of course, Tyler,” I murmur, hugging him tightly. I pull back slightly, and he wraps his arms around me again before letting go and taking a deep breath.

“You know what’s messed up?” he says, voice bitter. “The doctors didn’t do anything until now because they still believe Black people can handle pain better.”

My eyes widen. “What the… what?!”

He laughs bitterly. “Yep. They think we can handle pain better because of slavery.”

I feel sick to my stomach. “That’s… that’s messed up. I can’t believe racism runs this deep in our society.”

He shakes his head and takes a slow breath. “We’re not safe from anyone.”

My heart aches for him. I still remember the fear in his eyes when he got pulled over in his car. I didn’t understand why he was scared back then… until the cop started getting aggressive.

I got between him and the cop. The officer backed off when I called Dad. I never truly understood how deeply racism ran in our justice system—and now in healthcare. It’s so unfair. I admire that Blake became a detective to fight for justice for his people. He’s half Native, Daisy is Native, and John is white.

Blake’s whole reason for becoming a detective was to make sure cases of missing Indigenous women don’t slip through the cracks. It breaks my heart that people of color can’t trust the government to protect them.

And I thought we white women had it bad—until I realized how much harder women of color have to fight.

I close my eyes. “I’m so sorry, Ty. I wish your family didn’t have to fight just for your mom to have a chance.”

He inhales and exhales. “At least now she’s finally being tested and getting the care she needs.” I hug him tightly.

“If you need anything, just let me know,” I murmur, rubbing his arm.

He nods. “Thank you, Ausie.”

The bell rings, and I realize we’ve been out here the whole time.

By the next class, Tyler looks a little better. I give him a gentle smile, and he smiles back, sliding into the seat next to me and resting against my side.

“How are you feeling?” I ask softly as he opens his notebook.

“Better… thank you again. I really needed that,” he whispers. Then he adds quietly, “Will you go with me to the hospital to see my mom?”

“Yes, of course,” I reply immediately.

Class passes quickly, and soon the first lunch bell rings. We walk into the cafeteria together and grab our trays.

“Pizza, thank God!” Tyler murmurs, making me laugh. He’s the biggest pizza lover I’ve ever known.

I sit next to Bella, who’s glaring at Edward and Alice.

“Hey, Bells,” I say, and she turns her head, smiling at me.

“Hey, Ausie,” she replies, hugging me before looking at Tyler. “Is everything okay?” she asks. Tyler bites into his pizza.

“My mom’s in the hospital,” he breathes out. Alice’s face softens with sympathy.

“What happened?” Mike asks.

“She was cooking in the kitchen, then she fainted,” Tyler says. I squeeze his hand, and he squeezes back.

“Oh my God! Is she okay?” Angela asks.

“We don’t know yet, but they’re finally taking her seriously and running tests. They think she might have cancer,” he says hoarsely.

Mike gasps. “I’m so sorry, man.”

Tyler nods, finishes his pizza, and rests his head on my shoulder.

Bella smiles softly. “You two have the cutest friendship.”

I grin. “He’s a big old softie who pretends to be tough.”

“Shut up, baby Swan,” he grumbles.

I laugh and shake my head. “When are you going to the hospital?” I ask, taking a bite of my pizza.

“After school,” he answers, rubbing his eyes.

“I’ll go with you,” I say, and he nods.

I glance at Bella. She looks… sad. She keeps checking her phone like she’s waiting for someone to call or text her, and a tear runs down her cheek.

Emmett notices and tries to cheer her up, but she doesn’t look away from her phone. I know she’s waiting for Sam to reach out, and my heart breaks for her.

Edward grabs her phone.

“Give it back, Edward!” she demands.

“He won’t text you. He left you. If he truly loved you, he wouldn’t have ghosted you for three months,” he says quietly.

Tears stream down her face. I growl at him. “What the fuck is wrong with you, dickhead?!” I yell.

“I’m just keeping it real, Autumn,” he shrugs.

I can’t help it—I slap him across the face, making him hiss in pain. Whatever I am, I was created to kill vampires.

He’s about to lunge at me, but Emmett pushes me back and glares at Edward. They have an intense stare-down. My heart races; I just know if we weren’t in school, he would have tried to kill me. Our human friends look on, confused and scared.

“Let’s go, Autumn,” Rosalie says, grabbing my hand. “We’re going to be late to class.” With that, we walk to class, and Rosalie does her best to calm me down.

“As long as you’re here with us, you’re safe, honey,” she says softly as we enter the classroom.

Soon enough, school ends. I walk to my car and see Tyler waiting. I hug him as I reach him.

“Thank you for doing this for me,” he says, his voice tight, as I rub his arm.

“Of course, Ty,” I answer.

I follow him to the hospital. We park next to each other, and I grab his hand, squeezing it. He turns to me and smiles softly. We walk inside together, and he asks to see his mom. They show us the way.

We enter the room and see Breanna and Xavier. They smile at us.

“Is that baby Autumn?!?” Breanna asks happily, making me smile.

“Yep!” I beam. “Well, not a baby anymore, Anna,” I add.

“You’ll always be a baby to me, baby Autumn,” she shoots back, making me grin.

“So, what’s going on with your mom?” Tyler asks, walking over to her and taking her hand.

“I have liver cancer,” she answers quietly.

His face crumbles. “What stage are you at?” he asks, his voice breaking.

“Stage 4,” she mumbles.

Tears fill Tyler’s eyes. I rub his arm. “If the doctors had actually listened to you from the beginning, you’d have a fighting chance!” he yells.

Then he sobs. Breanna hugs him, tears streaming down her face. I look over at Xavier—his eyes are bloodshot red. I walk to him and hug him.

He holds me tightly. “I am so sorry, Mr. Crowley.”

“What did I say about that? Please, just call me Xavier,” he says gently.

I let out a watery laugh and hug him, my own tears running down my face. I hate racism with a burning passion. If it didn’t exist, Breanna wouldn’t be dying, and this family wouldn’t be living in fear.

The doctor comes in and begins explaining the next steps. As he talks, I notice pure rage etched on Tyler’s face. Then something inside him snaps.

“WE COULD HAVE AVOIDED THIS IF YOU TOOK ACTION IN THE VERY BEGINNING!!” Tyler yells, aggressively pointing at the doctor.

“MY MOM IS DYING BECAUSE OF YOU!!!” He screams louder, his voice cracking.

Tears run down my face as I watch him. The doctor looks down, ashamed.

“I…I am sorry,” Dr. Fortin says quietly.

“You are sorry now! My mom has less chance of surviving because of your ignorance!” Tyler continues. I walk up to him and squeeze his hand.

I look into his beautiful dark brown eyes, full of anger and sadness, and then back at Dr. Fortin.

“I hope there’s some law that strips your license,” I say sharply.

After that, Breanna schedules the next appointment. I can’t believe this shit. “I still can’t believe this,” I murmur.

“This is our life, Autumn,” Tyler says tiredly.

I hug him. I wish things were different, that Breanna had a real fighting chance. I’ve never seen how deep racism runs until this very moment.

                        Bella

I keep checking my phone, hoping for a text from Sam wishing me a happy birthday. No one knows this, but he sends me birthday cards every year for ten years when no one else did. Tears run down my face. I miss Sam so much. He was my rock. When I came back home, he was the first person who understood me and never blamed me for not being there.

I still remember him comforting me when Paul yelled at me, calling me a horrible sister. I tried to explain to Paul that it wasn’t my choice—I wanted to stay with Autumn, but my mother wouldn’t allow it and took me with her. Paul wasn’t listening. It felt like I was talking to a wall, until Sam stepped in to defend me.

“Paul, I was there! She was in the car, begging her mother to let her stay. She was sobbing; she didn’t want to leave! But she had no choice! So stop being an asshole to her!” he says sharply.

Tears run down my face as I watch him. His eyes soften when they meet mine. Paul exhales and looks guilty. “I am sorry, Bella,” he says quietly.

After that, Paul leaves Sam and Emily’s home. Silence fills the room. Sam pulls me into his warm, comforting arms. I cry softly as he rubs my back.

“Sweet Bells, don’t beat yourself up over that. You were a child yourself,” he murmurs softly.

I hug him tightly. “I should have fought harder, Sam.”

He shakes his head. “Bells, you were a child. You couldn’t do anything.”

I close my eyes and soak up his warmth. “Wait… you told Paul you were there, but you weren’t at the house?”

He nods. “I was out running. I saw you in your mother’s car—crying and screaming—and I couldn’t take you away from Renée”

I take a deep breath and hug him tighter. “Thank you for having my back, Sammy.”

He looks down at me with a soft smile and kisses my forehead. “I will always have your back, sweet Bells.”

I want to scream—why did he leave me?! I sigh and step out of my truck. Honestly, I don’t want a birthday party this year. I’m getting old.

“It’s a shame you’ll have so many wrinkles when you get older, Bella,” my mom’s voice echoes in my head.

I close my eyes, shake my head, and get out. I’m at Emily’s house because she wants to give me a gift. I spot Leah’s car in the driveway. Excitement runs through me, and I half-run to the door. I smell Emily’s famous muffins, and then I see them—her and Leah.

Leah has braided her beautiful long hair and is wearing the most stunning native dress. I love the patterns. “You look so beautiful, Lee Lee,” I say, and she blushes.

“Thank you, Belly,” she says, walking over to hug me. I soak up her warmth as she kisses my forehead. God, it feels amazing in her arms.

“Happy birthday, Bella,” both Emily and Leah say, making me smile softly.

Emily hands me a gift. I rip the paper and accidentally cut my finger. I hiss. Emily quickly hands me a small band-aid.

“Thank you,” I say.

She nods as I continue opening her gift. My face lights up. “Oh my god, you got me A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly!” I can’t contain my excitement. I practically jump up and down giggling. Emily smiles brightly at me.

Then Leah hands me a small box. I open it—and oh my god.

It’s a handmade bracelet with earth-colored beads and a smooth flat stone. “Leah, this is beautiful,” I say as I take it out of the box and move Edward’s bracelet to my right hand so Autumn’s and Leah’s bracelets sit together.

“The stone is from the lake where we started our relationship,” she murmurs shyly.

I smile at her. “I love it so much, Lee Lee.”

Then my phone chimes. I look down and see Edward texted me.

Edward:

Where are you!

I sigh. I really don’t want to go to that stupid birthday party, but Edward insists I celebrate it with his family.

Me:

At Emily’s home.

Edward:

I keep telling you to stop going there!

Me:

And I keep telling you, you’re not my father!

Edward:

Get your ass home, Isabella.

I growl. Emily looks at me with concern. “Is everything okay?” she asks. I nod.

“Edward wants me home. Thank you for the gifts—I love them so much,” I say, hugging them tightly.

I get home and see Autumn’s car. Thank god—I’m going to ask her to come with me because I don’t want to go alone.

I walk in and Brady and Collin beam at me.

“Happy birthday, Bella!” Brady says, hugging me. “Sorry I couldn’t get you anything,” he adds, looking guilty.

“It’s okay, Brady. Just saying happy birthday means a lot to me, nerd boy,” I say, making him groan. I smile.

Jacob and Autumn are at the kitchen table doing homework together. Autumn is so focused; her mouth makes an “O” shape when she realizes she did it wrong. She is so adorable.

Then I see Edward and Dad talking. I walk up and hug Dad, who smiles and kisses the top of my head.

“How was your visit at Emily’s?” he asks.

“Good! She got me a book I’ve been dying to read,” I say happily. Dad smiles.

I turn to Edward and hug him. His hard, cold arms lock around me. I try my best not to shiver in his embrace. I miss Leah’s arms—they were warm and soft. I let out a breath and lay my head on his chest, though a part of me wishes it were Leah’s.

“Go get ready for your small birthday party, love,” Edward says gently. I nod and walk over to Autumn, touching her shoulder. She jumps.

“Jesus Christ! Where did you come from?!” she yells, holding her heart, which makes Jacob laugh.

“You’re so easily scared, Moonly,” he teases, holding his stomach. Autumn shoves his shoulder.

“Anyway, I was wondering if you could come with me to my small party. I don’t want to, but Edward and Alice won’t take no for an answer. So… will you come?” I ask. She nods.

“Of course. It’s Jacob’s day with the boys anyway,” she mumbles. Jacob sighs.

“You’re leaving me alone with the boys,” Jacob groans.

“They’re the most well-behaved boys,” Autumn defends Collin and Brady.

Jacob narrows his eyes. “They act innocent with you, but with me? They make me go insane!”

“Collin and Brady, be on your best behavior while I’m gone,” Autumn shouts.

“Okay, Ausie!” the boys respond in unison.

With that, Autumn and I get ready. I pull out my phone and text Sam—his contact has basically become my diary.

Me:

First, Edward gives me the ugliest bracelet and has the audacity to put it over Autumn’s handmade one, which is the most beautiful bracelet. And now him and Alice are forcing me to go to my own birthday party that I didn’t want!

Me:

Anyway, I miss you, Sam. If you were here, I would be happy just having a bonfire with the others, making s’mores, and having a good time. That’s all I want for my birthday—just to hang out with you, the boys, and the girls.

I put my phone away and finish getting ready. Autumn and I head to the Cullens’ house.

“AUTUMNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!” Emmett yells loudly, picking her up and spinning her around as she giggles.

“Miss you, sweetness,” Emmett says, setting her down.

“You see me every day, Em,” she giggles.

“True, but I can still miss my favorite little human,” he says, as Rosalie hugs her.

I love that they adore my baby sister so much. Alice beams. “Autumn, you’re here!” she says, smiling, while Edward just glares.

Then Emmett turns to Edward. “Dating an older woman, huh? Hot.”

Autumn laughs. “I mean, older women are hotter,” she says playfully, winking at Rosalie, who smirks.

Everyone moves into the living room so I can open my gifts. Edward notices me putting his bracelet on my right hand and glares at it. I roll my eyes.

Alice hands a box to Rosalie, who passes it to me, while Autumn leans in from behind to get a better look at my gifts.

“It’s a necklace,” she says. Autumn raises an eyebrow, Rosalie rolls her eyes but a tiny smile tugs at her lips.

I shake the gift Emmett gave me, anticipation buzzing through me.

“Bella, you can break it,” Autumn says, taking the gift from me and making me laugh.

Emmett chuckles. “I already installed it in your truck. Finally, a decent sound system in that piece of crap.”

“Hey! Don’t hate the truck!” I snap. That truck is my baby.

Then Alice hands me a gift from Esme and Carlisle.

“Something to brighten your day,” Carlisle says, smiling.

“Because you’ve been looking pale lately,” Esme adds.

As I open it, the paper cuts my finger. I hiss in pain. “Paper cut!”

Then I look up. Jasper is staring at me with that hungry look… and suddenly Edward shoves me so hard that Autumn and I fly backwards. I hit the wall with a thud and hear glass shattering.

I land on the floor, and I see Autumn lying motionless.

“AUTUMN!” I scream, seeing blood running down her head. No, no, no! If she hit her temple just right, she could die.

I look up. Jasper lunges at Autumn, but Emmett grabs him and goes straight for him—NO! I try to move as fast as I can to reach her, just as he’s about to bite her.

Rosalie body-slams Jasper. Emmett holds his throat and forces him out of the room.

Rosalie rushes to Autumn, and Carlisle hurries to my side, tears running down my face.

“She’s okay, Bella. I can hear her heartbeat. She’s okay,” Carlisle says, trying to calm me down.

Autumn opens her eyes. “You’re sooo pretty. If I wasn’t with my Jakey, I’d date you,” she mumbles.

I laugh. “Leave it to Autumn to flirt with Rosalie after almost dying.”

Rosalie chuckles. “Come on, honey. We need to patch you up.” With that, she picks her up, and we follow Carlisle to the room.

As Carlisle patches me up, Rosalie tends to Autumn. I stare at Jasper—why did he go for Autumn and not me? I look at Carlisle, who looks pissed, then at Rosalie, whose eyes are full of rage.

Then it hits me. The conversation Edward and I had… I’m his blood singer.

Oh my God. Autumn is Jasper’s blood singer.

“Did you know!?!” I ask, venom dripping from my voice.

Carlisle shakes his head. “No. If I had, I wouldn’t have allowed Autumn in our house.”

Autumn comes to their house when she needs peace and quiet to study—or just to hang out with Emmett and Rosalie.

I look at Rosalie. She shakes her head. “How could he keep this from us?!”

Autumn gives us a confused look. “What’s going on?”

Rosalie sighs. “You’re Jasper’s blood singer.”

“What the hell is a blood singer?” Autumn asks, wide-eyed.

“Do you have a favorite food—like one you just can’t stop eating?” Carlisle asks. Autumn nods.

“That’s what you are to him,” he says as he wraps up my stitches.

“So I’m his favorite snack?! That’s just wonderful,” she mutters, rolling her eyes.

After we get home around 7:30 p.m., Jacob’s car is in the driveway. Autumn and I get out, both sighing.

“Let’s never do that again,” she mumbles softly, making me smile.

“I agree,” I say.

We walk inside, and the boys are… covered in mud. Jacob’s whole body is dripping, glaring at them.

“What the hell happened?!” Autumn demands.

“Where do I start?!” Jacob yells, glaring.

“It wasn’t my idea, Jacob!” Brady yells back. Autumn and I exchange glances.

“Then whose idea was it?!” Jacob’s face is red as a tomato.

Brady looks down. “We… just thought it was funny.”

Jacob sighs. “You guys could have ended up seriously injured.”

“We didn’t think, okay?” Collin says, earning a side-eye from Jacob.

“You weren’t thinking! You don’t just get on dirt bikes and take off without asking!”

Autumn gasps, eyes wide. “YOU TWO GOT ON DIRT BIKES?!”

The boys sink lower, shame written all over their faces.

"Please tell me you guys at least had helmets on!" Autumn yells they shake their heads.

"Collin you are ground and Brady I will talk to Mia about this!" Autumn says as Jacob takes a deep.

"What eles happened?" I ask because it looks that just wasn't the only thing that happened.

"Brady and Collin fight over x box and broken one of the picture frame then throw the football in the house." He says letting out a tired sigh.

"Jesus christ," Autumn says and went up to him and squeezes his shoulder he relaxes.

"When we have our own kids they better not become like them," he let's out a breath.

I smile at them and walk upstairs and lay on my bed and grab the bookmark Collin made and pick up the book Emily got me and start reading as I got to chapter 3 my phone rings. I see it is Jessica I smile and answer it.

"Hi Jess," I say and put the bookmark in the book and lay the book on my bed.

"I was wondering if you want to hang out my house it will just me and Angela." She says I smile.

"Promise," I say.

"I promise Bella," she mumbles I sighs.

"I will be there." I say and with that I changed into something more comfortable and head downstairs I see Jacob and Autumn sleeping on the couch together with their boys playing on the x box. 

                     Sam

I hear my front door open and see a cute blond girl walking with Paul, "oh my god hi! You most be Sam!" She says excitedly.

I smile. “I am, and you must be Jules.”

Her face lights up, and she turns to Paul. “You talked about me?”

He smiles down at her. “Of course, my firefly.”

Blake looks up from his laptop and freezes when he sees Jules. I can see the pain flicker across his face.

“You have to be Blake,” Jules says. “Paul wouldn’t stop talking about you to the point I feel like I already knew you before meeting you!” Blake blinks, caught off guard.

She turns to the pack. “I know all of you! Jared loves making bets—and most of the time, he loses. Sam is like a big brother to everyone. Emily—Paul will not shut up about her muffins. And Embry… doesn’t like it when people tease him about his name.”

She smiles at Embry. “I love your name—it’s beautiful. Don’t let anyone bully you because of it. I love it.”

Embry smiles softly at her. “Thank you, Jules. And I love your name too.”

Jared gapes at Paul. “Seriously, dude… how did you get her to be with you?!”

Jules’ face drops slightly, and she unconsciously steps behind Paul, making his face redden.

“What the fuck, Jared?!” Paul growls.

“I mean… why did she pick you?! She’s all cute and sunny, and you’re all grumpy and cocky!” Jared protests.

“Don’t mind Jared—he’s an idiot,” Embry says, walking over to Jules. He puts an arm around her shoulder and gently drags her away from Paul.

“So I hear you love all animals, including the… ugliest ones,” Embry teases as Jules smiles.

“They’re not ugly—they’re unique,” she replies firmly.

“See! You guys are completely opposite from each other,” Jared continues.

Jules looks at him. “Paul is sweet too! He’s amazing with kids when I babysit, and he loves teaching me how to fight.”

Jared holds up his hands. “I was joking, buttcup.”

Emily laughs. “Paul finds himself a defender.”

Blake smiles softly at Jules, even though he knows Paul has imprinted on him. He just wants Paul to be happy.

Jules and Embry head into the kitchen, Paul following closely behind. I walk over and sit next to Blake, feeling the tension in the room ease just a little.

“How are you holding up?” I ask, glancing at Blake. He looks over where everyone is—Jules helping Emily cook, the boys playing around, making Jules laugh so hard she’s practically bouncing.

“I’m okay,” he says quietly. “Yes, I’m sad, but as long as Paul is smiling like that…” He points toward Paul, whose grin stretches from ear to ear.

“I’m sorry, Blake,” I murmur, squeezing his shoulder.

Just then, Jules bounces over with the brightest smile.

“Paul mentioned that you were looking for good hand cream for your sensitive skin,” she says, holding out a small jar. “I handmade this cream—it has honey and oatmeal. It should help.”

“Wow… thank you,” he whispers softly, taking the jar. He tests a bit on his hands and his eyes widen. “Holy shit—it feels amazing. Thank you, sweetie.”

Jules beams. “You’re truly the sweetest thing.”

Blake chuckles softly. “Wait… how did you and Paul meet?”

“I was trying to save a snake from getting run over,” she says, and Paul suddenly yells from behind her.

“YOU’RE LEAVING OUT THE PART WHERE IT WAS A RATTLESNAKE!”

Jules narrows her eyes. “Every creature deserves to live!”

Paul groans. “That snake could have killed you.”

“But it didn’t!” she snaps back.

Paul sighs and pulls her into his arms. “And I know you guys are werewolves… because he shifted in front of me… by accident,” she admits shyly.

I groan. “Paul, I swear to God…” Then I turn to Jules, softer. “Are you okay, dear?”

She nods. “Yeah. But it was scary at first.”

I shake my head as my phone chimes. I glance down and see a message from Bella.

Bells: Duck my life, Sammie.

Bells:

First my boyfriend gave me the ugliest bracelet, thennnnnnnnnnnnn he made me go to a birthday party that I DIDN’T WANT. Ughhhh.

Bells:

I didn’t even like it!

Bells:

Then Daddy said I can’t have a chipmunk! Sammmiieeeee, I want one sooooooo badly—they’re ute!

Bells:

Ahjsuebeuehbeh

Bells:

Luv you <3

I’m laughing so hard everyone’s staring at me. “Bella is drunk texting me right now, and she wants a chipmunk so badly,” I tell Paul.

Paul takes my phone and laughs. “She really hates that bracelet. You should’ve seen her face when she got it—tried so hard to be nice about it.”

He was on shift duty watching the Swan girls while Jared and Embry were assigned to Luna, Kim, Zach, and Quil at school.

“Oh my god, Sam, we have to get her a chipmunk to make up for not being there for her birthday!” Embry says. Jared and Paul nod in agreement.

After two hours of hunting, we finally find the perfect little chipmunk—a chubby, attention-loving fluffball. It’s clearly enjoying all the fuss we’re giving it.

When we walk in the house, Jules runs over, eyes wide, when she sees the chipmunk in my hand.

“Oh my god! Can I hold it?” she asks excitedly. I nod, and she gently cradles the little creature.

“You’re so cute, little guy!” she whispers, softly petting its head.

Then she tilts her head and says, “Do you guys know chipmunks and squirrels are related? They belong to the same family—taxonomic and Sciuridae. They’re so similar, yet so different. Squirrels love climbing trees, while chipmunks prefer staying on the ground. The—” She trails off, looking a bit embarrassed.

“Sorry for rambling,” she murmurs.

Blake gives her a soft smile. “Sweetie, don’t apologize. I was enjoying that little lesson. It’s interesting how chipmunks and squirrels are related.”

Jules looks at him, hoping he’s serious.

“What he said—don’t stop talking when you have something to share,” Embry adds.

“I want to know more!” Jared pipes up, making Jules laugh.

“We can talk about it over dinner,” she says, and Jared beams like a kid.

Whoever hurt this girl so badly—they apologized for being themselves—they’re going to regret it.

Jared: “We should name him Alvin after Bella’s favorite movie!” he says, feeding the little chipmunk some peanuts.

“He doesn’t look like an Alvin,” Paul mutters. I shake my head, trying not to laugh.

“What about Simon?” Paul suggests. Embry gives him a funny look.

Emily giggles, “What about Theodore? He looks like Theodore, and he is Bella’s favorite chipmunk.”

I nod enthusiastically, and everyone agrees. We grab a small cage for him and head over to the Swan’s house.

                       Bella

Angela didn’t let me leave until I was sober. By the time I got home, it was 1 a.m. I quietly opened my door—and froze. On my bed was the cutest chipmunk I had ever seen, with a small note next to him:

Hi, I am Theodore.

Happy birthday, Sweet Bells.

I narrow my eyes. “I better not have another stalker!” Then my eyes widen—no one calls me Sweet Bells except Sam. Tears prick at the corners of my eyes. So he’s been reading my texts… but why doesn’t he text me back?

I carefully take Theodore out of the cage and hold him. He’s so tiny and soft, and I can’t stop smiling. I play with him for a while until I get tired, then gently put him back in his cage and collapse onto my bed, finally drifting off to sleep with a smile.