#jasper twilight slow burn | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

ashcal99 · 10 months

Text

Collarbones : Jasper Whitlock Hale IV

Chapter Four

"I can see your collarbones and baby I'm scared, Never thought I'd be so unprepared"

Summary: Camila Johnson was only 16 when she was diagnosed with leukemia. By the time she had turned 17, the doctors had tried everything to save her. Her family is close to giving up hope when they hear of a doctor who may be able to help her. The only problem is, he lives on the opposite side of the country. The small family soon decides to move to the small town in Washington, in efforts to prolong her life. In doing so, her life changes forever.

Warnings: Eventual smut (18+ only), mentions of death, depression, violence, descriptions of disease and weight loss, general angst, slow burn

Words: 7.4k

A/N: Please lmk if you'd like to be added to the tag list. Hope you enjoy. Made this chapter extra long for the wait x

Soundtrack

Previous Chapter

Series Masterlist

——————

January 29th, 2005

Camila sat there, frozen in time, for what seemed like an eternity trying to process what Jasper had just admitted. So, Jasper sat there, unmoving as well as not breathing. He wasn’t sure how she was taking the new information and suddenly found himself wishing that he held Edward’s power in that moment, willing to give everything just to know the thoughts that were going through her mind. Second best, he knew that she, remarkably, held no fright towards the admission, and he couldn’t help but wonder if she lacked the simple instinct that humans should be born with. The instinct to run away screaming when someone tells you that they’re a monster and could easily kill you.

At the end of the day, he knew that was what he was. A monster. He may have changed his diet and tried to appear human, but he was far from it. He had killed people. Innocent people. He couldn’t even make the argument that his family had done the same, because their body counts were minuscule compared to his. He had fed off of human blood for nearly eighty-five years before Alice had found him. Even with his new found vegetarianism considered, he still slipped up. More than anybody else, and even though he knew that Camila was safe around him, he also knew that she had every reason in the world to fear him, and it confused the hell out of him that she didn’t.

He couldn’t help himself as he spoke, the silence eating away at his resolve. “Can you please tell me what’s going through your mind?” He asked, nervousness gripping his throat as he croaked the words out.

Camila’s eyes flashed over to him, eyebrows creased in… confusion maybe? “I don’t know… I feel like I know I shouldn’t believe you, but for some reason, I do?” She said, eyes tracing his serious expression. “Can you prove it? N-not the vampire thing, I guess, but something to prove any of it is true?” She asked.

Jasper’s mind reeled for a moment trying to think of something quickly, when an idea popped into his head. “Remember how you said I’m really good at reading emotions? Like an empath?” He asked, waiting for her nod before continuing. “It’s a little more than that. Some of us, when we turn, we get… gifts. When I was changed I could not only feel people’s emotions like they were my own, but manipulate them too.” He explained slowly, trying to find the right words.

Given the situation, he figured this was his best bet in not freaking her out any further. Eyes scanning her face to make sure that she was okay with what he was about to do, he pushed a wave of happiness towards her. He watched as the corners of her lips curved upwards, the crease between her eyebrows smoothing as her heart filled with overwhelming joy.

She didn’t know nor care why she had become so suddenly happy, but as soon as the emotion was ripped back from her, the pieces clicked together. The smile slowly dropped from her face as her mind returned to where had been just moments before. “Holy shit.” She huffed out. He was telling the truth. As soon as the feeling of joy had hit her, it was gone.

Her eyes widened suddenly. Maybe this was the explanation as to why she felt so strongly towards him. Maybe it was him all along, manipulating her feelings. “Y-you don’t do that to me often do you?” She asked nervously.

Jasper shook his head quickly, not wanting her to get the wrong idea. “No. I’ve never with you before.” He rushed out, hoping to whatever god that she would believe him.

Letting out a sigh, Camila let her shoulders drop as she let herself relax back into her seat. She had no reason to think he was lying. From what she could tell, all of her feelings and emotions involving him were genuine, no matter how much she wished that they weren’t there to begin with.

“So, is the whole thing about garlic true?” She asked trying to lighten the mood. Everything had suddenly gotten much too daunting.

Throwing his head back with a bark of laughter, Jasper ran his long thin fingers through his golden curls. How in the world was she taking all of this so well? The ball had to drop at some point, right? There’s no way that everything would go this smoothly. Surely after she learned about his past and how much of a monster he really was, surely then, she would run away screaming. But that admission would have to wait for another day, because in that moment, he would give anything keep Camila as far away from that part of him as possible.

——————

January 31st, 2005

The rest of her day with Jasper had flown by, and before Camila knew it, it was the start to her second week at Forks High School. After the exhaustion of her first week, and hanging out with Jasper on Saturday, the rest of her weekend consisted of sleep and cramming in the remainder of her homework. When Monday finally came around, she was well rested, at lest as well rested as she could be.

Camila had just joined the end of the line in the cafeteria, Eric talking her ear off behind her once again, when her eyes finally met Jasper’s across the crowded room. She hadn’t seen him since he had dropped her back off at home Saturday night. Like a perfect gentleman, he had waited, car pulled against the curb and watched her figure until she had successfully made it fully inside her home, before he drove away.

Now that her eyes had met his for the first time since she had been given the opportunity to fully, well mostly maybe, process his confession, she felt a weight leave her shoulders that she wasn’t even aware was there in the first place. The rest of their night on Saturday had consisted mostly of more light hearted conversation, so now that she had been given the time to think of more questions to ask him, she had began to grow anxious of waiting.

She knew the questions would have to wait, however, but seeing his face, that alone, eased that stress and anxiety from her. Everything had happened so quickly that her mind didn’t know how to calculate what his confession actually meant, and over the remainder of the weekend her mind had time to wander. He was dangerous, that much was apparent, but somehow, she also knew that he wouldn’t hurt her. That she was safe with him.

It felt almost like a fever dream, everything happening so quickly. They had only just met, but suddenly, she couldn’t remember the last time she had felt so comfortable with another person. So comfortable with being vulnerable, and content with sharing with him what she had been so keen on keeping from everyone else. Clearly he felt the same, that much she could gather herself, given his blatant honesty with her.

Eric’s voice broke her from her thoughts as he continued his ramble on about how their trip to La Push Beach had gone and how she ‘had to join them next time’. She had to stop herself from cringing, not looking forward to coming up with another excuse in the future. She turned to him, attempting to give a reassuring smile. She didn’t want to come off rude, especially with the wide grin that was stretched across his face. He was just trying to be friendly, and that’s what she wanted. So, even if his persistence slightly annoyed her, she was still happy to have him around.

Chills ran up her spine as icy fingertips brushed lightly across her lower back, bringing goosebumps quickly to the surface of her skin. She knew who it was, of course, before she looked up, having already gotten used to the feel of his touch, but that didn’t stop the flutter of her heart as her eyes met Jasper’s once more. He had sensed her unease from across the room and had decided to come to her rescue.

“Will you sit with us for lunch today?” He asked, giving her a quirked eyebrow as well as a small smile. Alice had been pestering him since his return on Saturday to spend more time with the girl. As usual, she would get what she wanted, she already knew that of course, but that didn’t stop her from reminding him at every chance she got.

Jasper watched as the gears in her head began to turn, slowly processing his invitation, her heart sputtering at his touch. He couldn’t help his smile from growing bigger across his face, enjoying hearing the reaction he had on her heart. “S-sure.” She stuttered out, turning back to the lunch lady to pay for her tray of food. She sent a small wave and smile to the boy, Eric, and fell in stride by Jasper’s side, his hand ghosting the small of her back as he lead her to the table that held the remainder of his family.

Eric stood for a moment, mouth agape as he stared at their retreating figures. What was it with the new girls and the Cullens? Why was that family suddenly so sociable after a year of barely speaking to anybody? From across the cafeteria, the two were beginning to attract the stares from the rest of her friend group, and when she finally made it to the table, Jasper pulling her chair out for her to take a seat, the majority of the overcrowded room was practically ogling them. A fact, in which was doing nothing to ease the anxiety that had settled in the pit of her stomach.

Setting her tray down, she slowly dropped into the hard plastic seat, shoulders tensing as she took in the perfect faces sat in front of her. Camila had of course met Alice the week previous, but she had yet to meet Jasper’s other siblings. She wasn’t sure if she should feel more or less comfortable meeting the pale strangers now that she knew their secret, but the fact was, she knew and nothing would change that now.

Feeling waves of anxiety and stress radiate from Camila, he decided now would be a time to use his powers, one that he hoped she wouldn’t be mad at him for later. He hated seeing the worry in her eyes and knew that her stress was unnecessary, so he did what he could and pushed feelings of calmness and comfortability towards her as he settled into the seat next to her.

As the anxiety lifted from her shoulders, a polite smile formed on Camila’s lips. Jasper cleared his throat from beside her, gaining the attention of his siblings. “Camila this is my family.” He gestured towards the group. “Alice you met already.” He said pointing to the pixie haired girl on the other side of Camila.

The whole family already knew of his admission, and given the circumstances he was more that content with their reactions. He hadn’t exactly known what to expect from the situation, never having dealt with anything like it before. Carlisle and Esme had been happy for him, and though this slightly unnerved him, he knew it came with good intentions. He knew what coming clean to Camila could mean for her future, for their future, but he still refused to get his hopes up. Her knowing and having the choice to ‘live’ on had no guarantee that she would make that decision, and as much as it pained him, he knew that he would never be able to make that choice for her.

Alice’s teeth shown brightly as she smiled at the girl, squealing lightly as she pulled her into a tight hug. Camila’s eyes widened, the immortal girl’s antics still surprising her despite already being on the receiving end previously. Before she was given the time to process and reciprocate the hug, Alice had pulled away and had returned to her comfortable position in her seat.

Alice was of course ecstatic, even though she had seen the whole thing happen already, because now she was free to develop their friendship. She had seen the whole thing play out and knew just how close she would grow to Camila, and like a child on Christmas morning, was practically bouncing with anticipation when he had arrived home Saturday night.

Jasper continued, stopping to roll his eyes at his sister. “This is Emmet and Rosalie.” He said, gesturing to the couple sitting at the opposite side of the table. Emmet gave a ginormous half smile half smirk to the girl, while Rosalie attempted the give a polite smile as well.

Emmet was of course laid back about the whole thing, only giving him a little bit of shit for finally finding his mate. Rosalie was surprisingly at ease with the situation, unlike her feelings towards Bella. Of course, Jasper knew why. She had always resented her immortality, having her humanity ripped away from her the way that it had been, and she wouldn’t wish that on anybody else. He knew her calm demeanor had to do with the fact that, unlike her human life, Camila had no chance of growing old. No chance of starting a family.

His heart ached at this knowledge, knowing that he would give anything he could to see Camila age into her beauty. To see her grow and start her adult life. To see her get married and have children, even if he wasn’t the one to give her that future. Unfortunately, maybe because God or whatever higher power was cruel or had a sick twisted sense of humor, she had no hope for that life.

It had been an unexpected punch to the gut to meet her mother. She was such a perfect reflection of her daughter that it was almost like he was glimpsing into that impossible future. He knew that this would be how Camila would look, given the chance. But she didn’t have that chance, and that was his best guess as to why Rosalie had refrained from giving him the same shit she had been giving Edward.

“And this is Edward.” Jasper said finally, turning to look at displeased expression of his adopted brother.

Edward had seemed slightly bitter about the situation. He obviously knew the differences between the two girls, but couldn’t help but feel slightly jealous at which the ease Jasper came by with telling Camila the truth. He himself would never wish the future of immortality onto Bella, but only wished that he didn’t have to suppress his want for the girl. He knew it was best to stay as far away from Bella as possible, hence why he had been avoiding her to the best of his abilities, but his resolve was beginning to waver.

Jasper didn’t have to deal with any of this, despite having his own struggles. Camila already knew the truth about them, and soon she would be making that decision on her own. Hell, he didn’t even have to worry about his thirst around the girl, a fact that he couldn’t help but be bitter about. Edward had always had what he considered decent self control with human blood, something that he couldn’t say the same for with Jasper, and the one person that it truly mattered for, he was at his lowest point with self control. It was cruel irony.

Despite not being able to read Edward’s mind like he could his, Jasper could feel his emotions, and he could fill in the rest himself. He didn’t want any animosity between him and his brother, but he knew that whatever Edward was feeling wouldn’t stop him from growing closer to Camila, and definitely wouldn’t stop Alice from begging him to let her spend more time with her. So that was why he had decided it was time to introduce her. What better time and place to break the ice between Camila and the rest of his family than the controlled environment of a school cafeteria? He had thought, and now, seeing the slight glare on Edward’s face, he couldn’t decide whether or not that had been a bad decision on his part.

As thoughts of anger rushed through Jasper’s mind, Edwards eyes flickered over to his. Edward’s glare softened as he processed Jasper’s internal dialog. He knew that it wasn’t his fault and he knew that it wasn’t Camila’s, but he couldn’t help how he felt. He was jealous and he was finding it difficult to hide his emotions. His eyes flitted across Jasper’s face, neck, and arms. The scars littered across his skin were a reminder to not push things with him. The crescents, nearly invisible to the human eye, were a gigantic red flag to any vampire. Neon lights that flashed bright as a warning to everyone around him to stay back or else. Although he knew that his brother would never hurt him, he also knew not to start a fight, because it would most definitely be one he would lose.

Huffing in irritation, Edward pulled out his chair, rushing to leave the cafeteria. He could try all he wanted to be civil and not start a fight, but he wasn’t about to sit there and take this torture. Over time it would get easier for him to cope, but in that moment, the wound was fresh and he needed to be far from the reminder.

Jasper sighed in annoyance, rolling his eyes once again as he let his defenses fall back down to their normal level. “Ignore him.” He muttered to the girl beside him, slinging his arm protectively around the back of her chair.

——————

“So what’s with you and Cullen?” Tyler blurted out suddenly. Camila’s head fell to look at her boots that thudded along the hallway towards their last class of the day. She could feel the blood rushing up to her cheeks and knew that it would do little to help her case if he saw the growing blush.

“What do you mean?” She asked, feigning confusion. It was a matter of time before someone started the inevitable conversation given Jasper’s display in the cafeteria that day, but she had hoped she would have a bit more time to prepare herself.

Tyler stuffed his hands into his pockets awkwardly. “Yeah, you two seemed… cozy today at lunch.” He muttered.

Camila raised her head, quirking an eyebrow at the dark skinned boy in stride beside her. “Cozy?” She asked, a hint of humor tinting her voice. Tyler was clearly bothered by this whole situation, a fact that she found humorous given the circumstance. From the fact that Tyler had asked her to prom just a few days previous, she could gather herself that he was most likely jealous of Jasper. Not that he had any reason to be. Camila had every intention to stick to her plan of staying single and as much as she was beginning to care for Jasper, she didn’t see that changing.

A scoff sounded from the boy by her side as he rolled his eyes at her teasing. “Yeah. Cozy. You sat with his family at lunch instead of us, and he was practically all over you.” He argued.

Camila laughed lightly at his words. “He was not all over me.” She argued. In fact, like usual, she had been hyper aware of every touch from the pale immortal. As usual, he had shown to be very hesitant in touching her, only giving the slight graze of his fingertips along her covered back as he lead her to the table. She of course was also extremely aware of the arm that he had slung protectively around the back of her seat after Edward’s whole display, but he had been very precise in not letting his cold skin actually touch her in any way.

Tyler groaned frustratedly. “Whatever it was, I don’t like it.” He complained.

Camila’s eyebrows knitted together. What was it with people at this school being assholes to them? The Cullen’s kept to themselves, sure, but they were never anything but polite to anyone they came into contact with. At this point, all these little comments that everybody kept making were beginning to piss her off. “And why should you not liking it mean anything to me?” She asked incredulously. Sure, she wanted to make friends, and be nice, but she was starting to become defensive over Jasper and she wasn’t just going to stand there and take everybody’s bullshit. Because that’s what it was. Complete and utter bullshit.

Tyler’s eyes widened slightly in surprise. He hadn’t expected her to respond in that way, never seeing her angry before. “I mean, he’s kind of creepy isn’t he? I’m just trying to look out for you. He doesn’t seem… good.” He said trailing off towards the end as he took in the expression of anger growing more and more prevalent on her face.

She had to bite back a snide remark as she tried to process how she could respond without sounding like a total bitch. An awkward silence rung between the two teens before she decided that she didn’t really care anymore. If he was going to give unsolicited advice to her when he barely knew her then she would respond accordingly. “No offense Tyler, but I didn’t ask for your shitty advice. I’m a big girl, I can look out for myself, thanks.” She said finitely.

Pushing her aching legs to move her forward at a faster pace, she let out an internal sigh of relief as the door to her calculous class came into view. Lunch had gone well, all things considered. Despite Edward’s little display, the rest of Jasper’s family had welcomed her with open arms. While the conversation mostly consisted of small talk and them asking her questions about herself, she could tell that they were all genuinely nice people.

Alice had invited her over for the following weekend, in which Camila had immediately agreed to without thinking. Now that she had been given the time to think about the implications of the invite, she realized that she would be meeting their adoptive mother and seeing Carlisle. While she knew Carlisle fairly well, given meeting him the week prior, she realized how nervous she was to meet Esme. Jasper had talked the woman up so highly, but she couldn’t help but feel her nerves eating away at her. She would be meeting his mother soon, ‘adopted’ or not and it was only natural to have that kind of reaction.

Jasper, as usual, was already seated at their assigned table by the time she had arrived to the classroom. Camila flitted to the back of the room to her seat, letting her body drop into the confines of the cool plastic, as she let out a heavy sigh.

“Are you okay?” Jasper asked, concern lacing his voice. It was normal for her be exhausted by the end of the school day, but he could also feel her anger and frustration. The feelings set off warning bells in his mind and he was immediately on alert to what had upset her.

Camila rolled her eyes, raking her slim fingers through the long dark strands of her hair. “Tyler Crowley is an asshole.” She said simply, annoyance still evident on her face as she recalled their conversation that had just taken place moments ago.

His eyes flickered over to where said boy had just entered the classroom, narrowing as he took in the sight. “What did he say?” He asked, immediately defensive over the girl.

“He apparently has an issue with you and ‘just wants to look out for me’.” She said, yanking her workbook and and pencil case from her backpack and slamming them down on the desk.

Jasper’s shoulder’s drooped at her words as he hummed in reply. He couldn’t even be mad. What Tyler said was clearly justified, whether or not Camila had realized. She should be warned about him. Just because he didn’t thirst for her blood didn’t mean that he wasn’t a danger towards her. Didn’t mean that he couldn’t hurt her, even if it wasn’t intensional. Didn’t mean that he wasn’t a monster at the end of the day.

Hearing his near silent response, Camila turned her head to see him looking down slightly defeated, eyes refusing to meet her own. “Jasper.” She said, trying and failing to get him to look at her. “Jasper.” She repeated, grasping at his hand that laid in a tight fist at his thigh.

Electricity shot through her fingers as they brushed the marble skin of his clenched knuckles, but she pushed on. “Can you look at me, please?” She asked, her soft voice contrasting the anger that had filled it just moments ago.

His amber eyes flickered up to meet hers. As much as he wanted to sulk in that moment, he wanted more to give her what she wanted. Her eyes softened as she saw the pain that filled his. They were always filled with pain, but this was different. More of an inner torment and seeing it made her chest ache.

She turned his fist over in her palm, nudging the fingers apart so she could intertwine them with her own. “He’s full of shit, Jazz. I know you would never hurt me.” She said, voice softly ringing in his ears.

The pain in his heart grew at her words. He didn’t deserve her. She was too perfect for his damned self and he knew it, but that didn’t stop him from being grateful that she was there. It didn’t stop him from selfishly wanting her. He pulled their intertwined fingers up to his lips were he laid a soft kiss on the back of her palm, thanking her for her kindness. Thanking her for her comfort.

The touch of his chilled lips on her skin sent her heart into overdrive, and knowing that he could he hear his effect on her didn’t help the blush that was creeping onto her cheeks. She had expected him to drop her hold after that, but instead, their hands remained, bound together and laying gently in his lap.

Class continued, the two working together on finishing the next page in their worksheet. Jasper of course could finish the work in less than a minute, but anything that gave him the excuse to talk to Camila he would gladly do. She sat there, eyebrows furrowed as she worked over a particularly difficult problem on the sheet. Normally, she would have no problem solving the equations, but today her mind was wandering too much. She sighed, giving up as she let her pencil clatter onto the chipped veneer of the desk.

“Do you want to come over to my house today?” She asked suddenly. Clearly seeing that she had caught him off guard, she continued. “I have more questions.” She clarified.

Jasper groaned internally. As much as he would love to avoid the inevitable conversation, he also knew that it had to happen at some point. At least he would get to spend more time with her, a definite plus. “Sure, I can just drive us after class if you’d like.” He offered. Alice had told him to drive separately to school that day, and now it was clear why. He would have to thank her later.

Camila nodded, pulling her flip phone from her bag and trying to discreetly type a quick text to her mother letting her know that Jasper would drive her home. Doing so was a bit difficult to do one handed, but she wasn’t about to take her other hand out of his grasp.

The remainder of the class trudged on slowly to Camila’s dismay. Now that she knew that she would be able to ask all of the questions that had been racing through her mind, she couldn’t seem to clear her head of them. Finally, a bell rang shrilly throughout the class, signaling the end of the school day. An unspoken agreement stood between her and Jasper as they both proceeded to pack away their belongings without undoing the grip on each other’s hands.

She wasn’t sure what the hand holding meant to him or even herself, but she didn’t exactly care. She already had to constantly remind herself of her promise to keep any romance at bay, but hand holding didn’t necessarily have to mean that. It was comforting, having his cold palm pressed against hers, and despite her internal screaming at herself that it was a bad idea, she didn’t want to pull away. So there they were, walking down the hallway, hand in hand, attracting even more stares than usual.

Camila let out a sigh as they reached the parking lot, the cool air feeling nice on her feverish skin. Puffs of vapor swirled in front of her mouth as steady breaths of hot air left her parted lips. Jasper had to rip his eyes away from the sight to make sure that he was walking in the right direction. He needed to pull his shit together. Kissing her hand had been bad enough, but he had to stop himself from thinking too much about her lips. Her soft warm plump lips. Jesus Christ, STOP.

He wished so badly in that moment that he could’ve kissed her. Regardless of the numerous bystanders. However, he knew that it wasn’t safe. He didn’t trust himself enough not to end up accidentally hurting her. He didn’t even know if she would’ve kissed him back for fuck’s sake. And here he was feeling like an absolute creep again.

Pulling himself from his thoughts, he pulled the passenger door of his car open for her. Reluctantly, she let loose of his grasp, immediately feeling an emptiness without it’s presence. She settled into the plush bucket seat, pulling her bag into her lap as he shut the door softly behind her.

Flitting quickly, or as quick as seemed human, to the driver’s side, Jasper slid in and turned the key in the ignition. Shifting the car into reverse, he backed out of the parking spot and shifted back into drive as he sped out onto the street. He internally thanked his past self for buying a manual transmission before reaching over to grasp Camila’s hand once more.

Camila let her hair fall in front of her face, hoping that the curtain of dark strands hid the smile that she couldn’t wipe away. For someone who was so adamant on not dating, she kept finding herself being giddy whenever he touched her. What was she a twelve year-old? He was just holding her hand, she shouldn’t feel like a swarm of butterflies was flying around in her stomach.

The drive to Camila’s home hadn’t taken long, and by the time they arrived at the small house, he mother’s mini van was still absent from the driveway. She had replied earlier letting her know that she was going to go grocery shopping since she had time before she had to go to work, and Camila was happy to see that she hadn’t returned yet. One less awkward interaction with Jasper and her parents would always be a good thing.

As they stepped through the threshold of the home, she found herself wishing she had cleaned her room. She hadn’t thought of the mess she had left behind before she had invited him over, albeit a small mess. Either way, she couldn’t help herself but try and hurriedly pick up the few pieces of clothing scattered around the room once they made it through the doorway.

Once she was content with her ‘cleaning’ she shut the door softly behind her and plopped down on her mattress, the springs squeaking slightly in protest. Scooting backwards until her back met the wall, she patted the empty space beside her, gesturing for Jasper to join her. On one hand, she almost wanted to sit out on the couch in the living room, as it would probably seem less intimate that way, but she also didn’t want to be interrupted by her mother when she inevitably returned home from the store. So there they were sitting side by side awkwardly on her worn out used mattress and now she didn’t know how to start the conversation.

Sensing her hesitation, Jasper spoke up. “So, you have questions.” He said, wanting to end the torture of waiting any longer. If she was going to run away screaming, he would rather it be sooner than later, because the anticipation was slowly eating away at him.

Camila sucked in a breath. “How old are you?” She blurted out. Jasper groaned, rubbing his hands down his face. He should’ve expected her to jump right to the point, but, somehow, he hadn’t. “You said it was a conversation for another day. It’s another day now.” She reasoned.

“I know. I know.” He said with a sigh. “I’m just really old, Darlin’.” He said, hoping the nickname would distract her. It didn’t.

She scoffed. “That’s not an answer.” She said bluntly.

Jasper closed his eyes, sucking in a breath as he braced for the impact of her reaction. “I’m a hundred and sixty-one.” He muttered lowly. Utter silence followed.

Camila didn’t know what she expected, if the age he had given was younger or older than she had thought it would be, but hearing him say such a precise age made everything seem way more real. She couldn’t find the words to say in response, so instead, she reached over to grasp his hand once more, letting him know that she wasn’t disgusted like he had thought.

“Will you tell me your story?” She asked, not being able to help her intrigue.

His bright gold eyes met her emerald irises. “It’s kind of gruesome.” He warned, trying his best to prolong the inevitable admission of his past, but knowing that it was just that. Inevitable.

“I want to know.” She said simply. “If you’re willing to tell me.” She clarified.

Jasper was fucked and he knew it. Anything that she wanted, he would give her in a heartbeat, but she would hate him after this. “I didn't have quite the same upbringing as my adopted siblings.” He said, reaching his free hand over reluctantly, to roll up the sleeve on the arm that she held.

She wasn’t sure how she hadn’t noticed them before, but there they were. Hundreds of crescent shaped scars shimmering lightly in the dim lighting emitted from her ceiling fan. Now that she knew what to look for, she could see the scars were scattered across every piece of visible skin. Down his arms, onto the hand that was holding hers, a few up his neck to his handsome face. “Are those… bites?” She asked incredulously.

“Battle scars.” He responded, a small smirk gracing his lips. “I was seventeen when I joined the Confederate Army.” He said, pausing when he saw her grimace. “I know. I wish I could say that I didn’t know what I was fighting for, or against, but I knew enough. I’m not proud of it.” He said hanging is head in shame.

“I was the youngest major in the Texas cavalry. All without having seen any real battle.” He continued.

Camila perked up. “I knew that was a Texas accent.” She said smirking at him, gaining a small smile in repose. Leave it to her to try and lighten the mood as soon as it gets dark.

Still, he pushed on, knowing that it was about to become a much darker conversation. “I was riding back to Galveston...after evacuating a column of women and children. When I saw her.” He said dauntingly. “I immediately offered her my aid.” He continued.

“Maria was creating an army. A newborn vampire army.” He clarified. “Our kind are at their strongest in their first year after changing. Their human blood still lingers in their veins and gives them more speed and strength.” He explained.

“Newborn armies were very common in the South, and cost a brutal battles for territory.” He continued, losing himself in the story. “Maria won them all. She was smart, careful. And she had me. I was the second in command. My abilities to control emotions served her well.” He said, looking down to the warm hand he still had clutched in his own, trying to find comfort in her touch.

“I trained her newborns. An endless occupation since she never let them live beyond their first year.” He said, cringing from the memory. “It was my job to dispose of them.” He said, voice thick with emotion. It pained him to remember what he had done. To remember their pain. “I could feel everything they felt.”

The crease between Camila’s brows deepened. It clearly hurt for him to recall these memories, and she found herself wishing that she could take that pain away.

“I thought what Maria and I had was love. But I was her puppet. She pulled the strings. I didn't know there was another way. Until I found Alice in 1948. Now she'd seen me coming, of course.” He paused, remembering that this would wouldn’t make much sense to Camila.

He gathered his thoughts quickly, trying explain the best he could. “She has visions, of possible futures. They change when decisions are made, but she knew when and where to find me.” He smiled slightly. “She saw you, even though she conveniently didn’t warn me.” He explained.

“I don't know what I'd have become without her. I’d done horrible, unspeakable things, and she helped me get past that. My family choses to feed off of animal blood rather than human blood, but it wasn’t always like that for me. I’ve killed innocent people. I’m not a… good person.” He ended his story with a sigh, unsure of how she was feeling.

Her mind was filled with conflicting emotions that he couldn’t quite place all together. “I completely understand if you want me to leave.” He said, moving to pull his hand away from hers.

Her grip tightened as her eyes shot up to his. “No, stay. Please.” She muttered. She knew how her reaction must seem. In truth, she had almost expected worse. As bad as his story was, at least he didn’t actively kill people. It was a horrible argument, she knew, but after being given the rest of the weekend to let her mind wander, she had tried to prepare herself for the worst.

Her silence was agony and he couldn’t help himself when he asked. “Can you please tell me what you’re thinking?”

Camila sighed, bringing her eyes back to his. “I’m not going to sit here and act like what you did wasn’t wrong, because it was. But I’m also not going to actively try and make you feel any worse for it. You’ve had over fifty years to regret what you did, and you clearly do. I’m not going to judge you for something that you wish you could’ve changed, not when I know you’re a good person now.” She said.

Jasper shook his head in disbelief. How was she this forgiving? It seemed impossible. He was sure she would be disgusted with him, but here she was forgiving him for something he couldn’t even forgive himself for. “How are you not terrified of me?” He asked.

She looked deep into his eyes as she answered. “I’m not scared because I know you won’t do anything to hurt me.” She said simply.

“I could hurt you on accident. Very easily.” He argued, looking ashamed. “I could crush you just by hugging you too tightly. I know you don’t understand fully, but it would be so easy that I actively have to try and not hurt you.” He said, a deep frown on his face.

Camila’s eyebrows furrowed as she brought her free hand down to trace the crescent shaped scars that littered his arm. “I don’t know what to tell you. I trust you, that’s the best answer I can give you, Jasper. You need to try and have trust in yourself.” She answered.

Jasper shook his head, baffled that she had so much trust in him to begin with. He didn’t deserve it. He didn’t deserve her. Seeing the sadness still in his eyes, she rushed, trying to find a change of topic to lighten the mood from the darkness that it had reached. “So, if you can manipulate emotions and Alice sees visions of the future, does anyone else in your family have a ‘gift’.” She asked, curiosity peaking once again.

Jasper was thankful for the change of topic, already feeling himself beginning to spiral from the continuous self hatred. “Yeah, Edward is the only other one in our family. He can, um, read minds… I know it sounds ridiculous.” He said, slightly humiliated at how fictional everything sounded.

“Oh god. That’s… embarrassing.” She muttered, her mind beginning to wander. Edward had no doubt read her mind and heard her thoughts of Jasper. Those were thoughts she didn’t even want to admit to herself and now he definitely had knew all about them.

Suddenly her mind went to his exit at lunch. Was that why he had left? Was it something she had thought that had set him off? “What happened with him at lunch today?” She asked.

Rolling his eyes at the memory, Jasper tried to form the most comprehensible explanation. “He’s jealous that I can tell you the truth and he can’t tell Bella.” He said simply.

“Bella Swan?” Camila asked.

Jasper nodded. “He… has a particular interest in her. He’s been trying to avoid her because he knows that it won’t end well, and he’s jealous that I don’t have to do the same with you.” He explained.

“Why is it different with me?” She asked, trying to ignore the implication that Jasper had an interest in her.

His eyes trailed across the bare walls of her bedroom, looking anywhere but at her as he continued. “He has a really hard time with the scent of her blood, while yours is different for me.” He said.

“Because of the leukemia?” She asked.

Jasper nodded again. “It’s more dangerous for her than it is for you because of that. It’s hard for him to even be in the same room as her. Either way it would end badly.” He explained.

“End badly how? Surely it could end in more ways than just him killing her right?” She asked. She knew the subject had to be touchy and sensitive, but she couldn’t keep herself from asking.

Here it was. The scariest topic of them all. If he didn’t handle this just right, if he didn’t use the right words, then there went his chance of a future with her. He gulped, mustering the courage to speak. “He could kill her or he could change her. Both which he doesn’t want to do.”

Camila’s eyed widened. She hadn’t even thought of that. Changing into a vampire. She wasn’t sure why her mind hadn’t gone there, but she hadn’t even considered that a possibility. She couldn’t help it when her mind wandered to what this could mean for her. He had said it like he was trying to imply something else entirely. He had to know the possible endings. Surely Alice had seen.

“Are there more possible endings for me? Futures where I don’t die from the leukemia?” She asked. She had to know. She had spent a year coming to terms with the fact that her life would be cut short, but now she wasn’t sure. She knew that her illness would in no doubt end up taking her human life, but what if she turned. What if she changed into something else where the cancer didn’t effect her anymore? What if she wasn’t human anymore? She had to know, because suddenly, after a year of withering away, she might have another option. She might have hope.

Jasper turned his eyes back to hers. This was the make it or break it moment. He sucked in a breath, feeling a tightness in his chest regardless of the fact that he didn’t need the oxygen.

And he spoke. “Yes… Alice has seen it."

Next Chapter

Tag List:

447 notes · View notes

lchufflepuffcorn · 1 year

Text

Meeting you Pt.5

Seeing things nobody can

(Not my gif, credits go to its owner/creator)

Author's note:

Words: 2484

Warning: Description of a catatonic state, description of past trauma, exposition to the story, past motherhood, past death. Description of depressive mood (feelings only).

Masterlist OGW Masterlist

Serie Masterlist

Part one Part two, Part three, Part four, part five.

Spotify link

Touch- Sleeping At Last

↺͏͏ ◁◁͏͏ ll ▷▷ ⋮

1943

The silent night weighed on (Y/N)'s shoulders as she prepared herself for her shift at the hospital the next morning. Alice had a bad day with incessant visions, which helped (Y/N) none to keep calm. The man -Jasper- they (Alice) were (was) waiting for made different decisions that made finding him more complicated than it already was. (Y/N) didn't know why they were waiting to meet the man from Alice's vision. The girl said it was because he was not ready yet, but (Y/N) wasn't sure she knew what he was supposed to be ready for. She surely wasn't ready when she met the younger girl. Nor did the woman feel ready to meet the man, especially when Alice would hold back so much information about him. Alice never really talked about the man she saw in her vision. All she had to say to (Y/N) when she'd ask was that it concerned her too, and sometimes he was her mate, sometimes he wasn’t.

It was all very confusing.

While the girl was curious, she couldn't blame Alice for trying to hold a secret about what she saw. (Y/N) understood the other girl's power. It was all based on one's decision. Should that person change their mind, the vision would change as well. Plus, she trusted Alice with her judgment. Most of the time, anyway. For eighteen years now that they stuck together, and not once had the pixie-like girl deceived her, sometimes her plans were … special. Never dangerous or treacherous, however.

(Y/N) would then write about her curiosity to Esther and Thade. It was harder now to send letters, though, with the war going on worldwide.

The war was making it difficult for everybody—Alice and (Y/N) were no exception. While Alice wanted nothing to do with it, (Y/N) had found a job as a nurse for the repatriated men from the fronts. She helped those who would not see the next day's morning light come to peace with it. Those who would never walk again to see the bright side of things, those who couldn't hear anymore, to learn to speak again. She helped those who were in desperate cases. It was a hard job, but it paid something, and Alice couldn't work at a regular job because she always had some difficulties adjusting to the vegetarian diet. Her control around humans was better but not yet perfect.

(Y/N) was happy that she'd been rich when she was still human and that the woman only had to work a little bit all her immortal life. Now, the money wasn't for her to worry about. Nonetheless, she still had to keep appearances up. Both girls owned a tiny house near the forest of the small town they decided to live in for a while. It was just right for them.

Alice was sitting at the table, looking at (Y/N) rearranging her bag of medical supplies. Both women were soaking in comfortable silence, but the taller girl could sense the everyday need to ask a question in the back of her throat. It was a feeling she was getting used to with Alice around. The girl sighed.

"Ask away," said (Y/N) without turning to face the other girl.

"How do you do it?" (Y/N)'s head cocked lightly on one side; she still wasn't looking at Alice.

She didn't understand the question. ''Do what?''

"With all the blood around..." Continued Alice.

"Ah," said (Y/N), stopping her from organizing. Her hand went up to her hair, which was barely holding together in a loose braid. She replaced a strand of it behind her ear, thinking about her answer. "The blood doesn't bother me; it never really did."

It was the truth.

Mere months after her turning, (Y/N) had no trouble with her thirst, and while she smelled how human blood did, how delicious and sweet it seemed, she never really urged for it to be her meal. It had surprised her creator, Azaria, how controlled and collected she was. Yet, they never found out how it occurred. (Y/N) thought it was because of her condition of death.

Because, like her, Thade was found by Azaria on a battlefield, and he too was quick to find the control not to kill humans on sight -or smell.

(Y/N) was turned a short while after successfully, but not without difficulties delivering her first -and only- child. Azaria, saddened to see her leave the world without meeting her son at least once, bit her and made it look like (Y/N) died from fatigue, fever and blood loss. The girl often thought it was why she could control herself so well. Esther had once said that maybe it was because she wished to meet her son. While it was a possibility, (Y/N) was not convinced.

The seemingly young woman turned back to her bag. She was supposed to work early in the morning. Plus, she'd heard from Mrs. Lowman about a large shipment. (Y/N) was not usually one to fear people, but she didn't like this war any more than she'd enjoyed the first one. A shudder took her by surprise. The woman could still remember the haunted looks of the soldiers she worked with when she was still in England. She could still hear the terrified screams of the brave men that fought the war on the quietest night.

It took a second for the girl to notice the emptiness uncharacteristic of Alice that she now felt.

But when she did, she turned around just in time to see Alice slouched dangerously close to falling out of her chair. Then, in a wink, she was near the dazed girl, stabilizing her so she wouldn't fall. Alice's blood-red eyes were unfixed, and her face was blank. It always took them both unprepared when Alice's visions came. (Y/N) wasn't panicking anymore, she was used to it, but it was still hard to get used to it, especially when they made her weak.

(Y/N) patted Alice's hair out of her face, not talking while she recovered from the vision. A lingering doubt comes to nudge her in the ribs, installing itself between her bones. But, of course, it wasn't her who felt that. Knowing that Alice disliked having her emotions played with all that much, (Y/N) didn't work on digging into the reasons for its existence. Instead, she voiced her concern for her friend.

"Are you well?" Asked the empath girl to the smaller one. Alice only nodded. She didn't look -or feel, well at all.

A post appeared on (Y/N)'s marble-like face. She wasn't exactly happy with Alice's lack of verbal answers. This was what Alice did whenever the visions weren't to her liking. This time, at least, she hadn't fallen over.

The sun was slowly peeking over the clouds. The birds were starting to sing a good morning too. (Y/N) passed a finger on Alice's cheek again before walking toward the couch they owned, where her medical bag was still waiting, unarranged enough to be up to her taste. The woman sighed, walking toward the small mirror hung next to the entry door. She toyed with her hair for a moment before signing again and turning to Alice.

"Can I ask for your help? It would seem it's impossible to complete this hairstyle without a second pair of hands." The smile Alice flashed her way was so bright that (Y/N) nearly missed how millions of butterflies seemed to fly in her stomach. Happiness, excitement, Alice.

She liked that one version of her better.

While the dark-haired vampire did her hairdo, the other was pinning her caduceus on her collar's left side, then her rank insignia on the right side. She wouldn't wear her cape long enough for it to go against the strict uniform rules. When Alice finished with her hair and placed the little hat over the bun -she'd insisted on doing it too, (Y/N) made sure that the dress wasn't wrinkled before taking her cape and her bag.

"I don't know when I'll be back," she said, "but if anything happens, or if you need to go hunt, go without me." Alice nodded.

It was their ritual before (Y/N) left the house. She would give her the plan for the day. Alice was one to voice her true feelings, but she didn't have to. She always felt nervous about being left alone. It reminded her of what she'd lived through as a human, even if she couldn't recollect it in any way. But, of course, Alice didn't like not knowing this, which was enough for (Y/N) to make her feel better about it.

The nurse smiled and left in the grayish light of early morning, accompanied by birds chirping and the promises of a sunny day she would not see.

It was the worst day yet of the entire decade for (Y/N).

They had received a big shipment, like her neighbour, Mrs. Lowman, had said. And some soldiers hadn't even made it out of the ship that brought the men home. Meaning that it had been even worst on the way back. (Y/N) didn't want to imagine it.

Nurses and doctors were running around, trying to be everywhere and anywhere simultaneously.

People were crying, weeping, and screaming. There was blood in every space that (Y/N) could look at, and people were ordering other people around without considering anybody else's needs. It was a mess.

The vampire had difficulties hearing herself think and reflect on what she was to go through it all. The seconds she'd entered the hospital, earlier in the morning, she hadn't stopped running. Two of her patients had already died while she was with them. Two others had to be sedated due to their violently psychotic state of panic. One other had tried to strangle her when she'd woke him up, and (Y/N) reacted on instinct. Pinning him down on his bed, growling. She'd soon started to whisper gentle words of encouragement when she realized what she'd done.

Sometimes, (Y/N) really hated to feel every emotion at once.

The worst was the grief, really. It was cold and heavy and sticky and debilitating. The woman knew she would never get used to grieving. Blood was everywhere on her, slowly making (Y/N) realize the gravity of the whole thing.

She'd seen blood before, lots more even, but now she had to make Alice wouldn't smell it on her. Every breath (Y/N) took to calm the emotions floating around was making her throat ache more. She was terribly good at controlling herself. Otherwise, the whole town would have been wiped out already. That was the only thing that kept (Y/N) going about her day.

She shivered at the thought of the bloody corpse she would leave behind in the frenzy of her thirst. The hot blood in her throat would finally give her the fullness the woman ignored for centuries, no more thirst. She could start with the closest nurses, every other present in the room was too weak to move, and the screams would not be out of place. Yet. Maybe people would start to know something was up, and little by little, all the screaming and crying would quiet down. By then, it would be too late. They'd already be dead.

No, no... (Y/N) thought for herself, taking hold of her mind yet. She swallowed with difficulty before looking around in the sea of people running around. That sort of thought was not usual for her.

"My legs, my legs!"

(Y/N) rushed to the wailing man's side. He'd just woken up from his surgery and missing both his legs. That was her expertise, the lost causes.

"It's alright, sir. I'll take care of you." She said as she reached the man's side. She could feel his panic bubbling inside her stomach her. Burning everything in hot trails. If she'd been human, she was sure she would have thrown up her meal right there and then. She was lucky she wasn't trembling like the poor soldier was. She took another sharp breath to calm him and herself both.

Today ought to be a very long day.

⁂

At the end of the day, (Y/N) bought another uniform. The one she had was utterly ruined now. It was soaked in blood, and the stenches were surely going to resist all of the washing (Y/N) would do. She'd already changed into the new uniform after taking a quick shower in the hospital's communal bathroom. It wasn't the best idea, but it was better than putting Alice in a worse predicament.

(Y/N) would never have forgiven herself if Alice was put in a bad posture because of her.

The town was quiet when she arrived. Usually, (Y/N) would have taken the bus to come home. But as she was already near the limit of her control, she'd ultimately decided not to. Every light was shut inside the small house the nurse shared with her friend. But when she entered the house, Alice quickly ran up to her. She threw herself into the other girl's arms as if she was to disappear.

"It went all blurry suddenly. as if I was in a smog and couldn't see properly." So the shorter vampire was saying.

"It's fine now." She reassured the brunette, forcing a smile to round her cheeks. Alice's eyes met hers, and a smile crept on her face, mirroring Alice's, after a short second. (Y/N)'s hands reached Alice's shoulders tenderly. She really reminds her of Joan by the way she clung to her.

"You smell like blood." The pixie-sized girl whined; her naturally red eyes were now pitch black.

(Y/N) apologized, laughing a bit. "Let me change. We'll go hunting after." She promised.

The familiar butterflies emerged inside her stomach as Alice agreed with a load of giggles. She was in a happier mood than she was the whole week. That's good. Thought the nurse as she changed into a more sombre dress. She undid her hair, letting them fall on her shoulder and draping her back before braiding them.

Maybe she had a lovelier vision while I was gone…

A letter rested between the wedding ring she held to and the ribbon Esther had given her back ten or so years earlier on her vanity. It was in her name and wasn't opened. However, Alice had the infuriating habit of opening the letters (Y/N) received when she was bored. So, either this one had just arrived, or Alice had been extremely patient. Either way, (Y/N) was pleased.

She'd read it after her hunt. She was starving.

#Jasper Hale x reader #Jasper Hale imagine #Twilight x reader #Twilight imagine #Vampire x vampire #Jasper Hale #Jasper Cullen #Olympia Clan #x reader #x reader imagine #imagines #jasper hale x reader #Romance #Slow-burn

69 notes · View notes

erisismywaifu25 · 2 years

Text

Shake It Out

Before we start, a few bulletpoint facts to get out of the way:

•Bella meets the Cullens in April instead of March (no reason other than me wanting that)

•Jake and Bella are the same age (Bella still older) and Seth and A.J. are a year younger than them

•In this Twilight fanfic universe, vamps and wolves who were changed before they turned 18 continue to age until they reach 18 cause I said so

•Jasper served in the Union

•Proofread but not perfect

Also this story is Seth Clearwater x OC (?) Cullen based off my friend who requested this slowburn fic, cause there are almost no Seth fanfics (the disrespect😤✊🏻). All chapters are named after Florence+the Machine songs cause me and my bestie love her stuff

Word count: 4696

Without further ado…Machine

————————

A.J. rolled her black, knee-high socks up her calf one at a time; starting with her dominant, right side then her left; from her seated position on the carpeted floor. Briefly, she slapped her hands rhythmically against her muscular thighs while leaning over to her left.

Copper eyes glanced around the pastel yellow walls of her room, the natural light filtered in through the large windows, catching the gradually changing, honey-gold undertone in her deep-set eyes.

“All eyes on me in the center of the ring, just like a circus~,” A.J. grabbed a dusty, white sneaker, “Ba-duh-duh-dun-danana-na-nun-just like a circus~.” she mumbled along while slipping her foot into her sneaker.

The bedroom’s overhead light glinted across her freshly-painted nails as she swooshed her tanned hand back to the left, anticipating the of the meshy-cotton of her matching sneaker, only to find the carpet.

“Huh?” her head whipped around at a lightning speed, “What-where is it.”

A.J. zipped over to the clunky, black stereo with various pop-culture stickers adorning it. The music abruptly cut off when she pressed the button, leaving an otherwise silent room had it not been for her enhanced hearing.

Clothing and other belongings were now strewn across the expansion of her room as she zipped all around it. The young vampire stopped at the foot of her bed (though never once had she used it for it’s intended purpose of sleeping) and flipped the pink ombré blanket up, sending her phone flying.

“Shit.” she cursed before snatching the rhinestone-bedazzled phone out of the air.

“Angel~,” Alice’s voice snapped A.J. out of her determined search, “Are you coming?”

A.J. called back, “I’ll be there in a sec!”

Her eyes surveyed her messy room once more; their enhanced precision able to look in every nook and cranny. The panel bed; covered with multiple stuffed animals she’s collected throughout her sixteen years; pressed against the far wall in the corner with two solid walls, the open blackout shades that sat at the top of the windows, the large built-in shelves by the doorway which had many cd’s on each shelf and various figurines, and inside her open closet.

The closet door was promptly shut, hiding the heap of clothing and shoes that weren’t her missing sneaker. A.J. gazed at herself in the full-length mirror on the outside of the door. She readjusted the cockeyed shoulder of her dark blue muscle tank and pulled down the hem of her black and white sweat shorts that had uncomfortably ridden up while she had been sitting down.

Grabbing two hair bands from the shelf between the closet and the bedroom door, A.J. haphazardly sectioned her layered hair; that was cut to just above her shoulders; into two parts. After doing so, she twisted one hairband three times around her dirty-blonde hair and repeated on the other side.

A.J. gave herself one more look in the mirror before grabbing her black backpack from beside the closet door, and zipped out of her room to head downstairs. In a blink, she was standing between the island and the fridge in the open, spacious kitchen.

“There she is.” Alice smiled teasingly at her from her seated spot on the edge of the island closest to the kitchen windows, her legs swinging alternately.

A.J. eyes snapped over to meet Alice’s liquid-topaz ones as tossed her backpack to the other room, “Sorry, I was looking for my shoe. Have you guys seen it?” she glanced between Alice and Jasper, who was leaning on his clothed forearm on the island next to Alice.

The tall and burly Cullen, Emmett, appeared next to A.J. with seven plastic grocery bags in his large hands.

“First your jack-,” Emmett was cut off by A.J. elbowing him in the chest.

Instinctively, Emmett dropped the grocery bags and wrapped his left arm around A.J.’s neck; his right arm acting as an anchor to keep her locked in. The younger vampire flung her muscular arms up in retaliation and gripped Emmett’s forearm and wrist. She then used her enhanced strength to yank his arms down and off of her, spinning herself around so she was now behind him with both his arms pinned to his back.

“Damn it.” Emmett cursed as A.J. released her hold on him.

The corners of Jasper mouth quirked up, “Good job, A.J.. I dare say you’re approaching my level of expertise.” his eyes shifted to watch as the other Cullens filed in.

Carlisle, Esme, and Rosalie strolled through the opening of the kitchen with plastic bags, that matched the ones Emmett had dropped, and two brown paper bags which Rosalie held. As to not block their way, Emmett and A.J. stepped away from the section between the island and fridge.

A.J. grinned at Jasper’s comment and opened her mouth to speak, not going unnoticed by Emmett.

“Don’t get used to it, shortie,” he cut her off before she get a word out, “In a few more months you’ll be just as weak as everyone else.” he playfully ruffled her hair.

“Hey! I just did my hair,” she swatted his pale hand away and quickly added, “Also, I’m 5’7, ya dick.”

“Angel Hale.” Esme warned as she and Rosalie began to unpack the bags.

A.J.’s lips formed a pout, “Oh, come on, I was just defending myself! He was the one who put me in a chokehold.” she jutted her thumb in his direction.

Esme looked at Emmett who’s arms were up in an innocent manner with a smirk plastered on his face. Her amber eyes shot down at the mess of fallen ingredients and plastic bags she had stepped over beforehand, then back at Emmett.

“Pick it up,” Esme ordered her adopted son, “Now.”

A.J. crossed her arms and smirked at him as if she had just beaten him for class president.

Emmett squinted his hooded eyes at his sister, “I was going to anyway.” he bent down and began to pick up the mess he made.

Carlisle turned away from the counter against the window and smiled fondly at A.J., his eyes filled with the love of a father.

“Excuse me, Alice,” Carlisle excused himself as Alice hopped off the counter, “Now, what was it you were looking for, Angel?” Carlisle opened the cabinet underneath the island and pulled out 2 metal bowls.

A.J. kicked her shoe-less, sock-covered foot up, almost punting Emmett in the head had it not been for him ducking just enough to pick up butter.

“Hey, watch it!” Emmett exclaimed as he waddled to the right to evade the possibility of getting hit by A.J.’s lack of depth perception.

A.J. smiled apologetically, “Sorry,” she then flailed her arms out at her foot that was still hanging it the air, as if she were showing something she would die without, “My sneaker. My white sneaker. I can’t find it anywhere.”

Rosalie stepped over Emmett and towards the perplexed teenager, “You mean the shoe I saw Emmett hide underneath the upstairs sink?” she placed her hands on A.J.’s broad shoulders.

“Babe!” Emmett whined as he set the last of the groceries on the counter, “You said you wouldn’t tell.” he rolled his neck in an exasperated manner to look down at Rosalie.

Rosalie smirked at him, “Did I?” her smirk fell into a look of surprise when A.J.’s shoulders left her manicured hands.

Esme smiled fondly seeing her children interact. Though A.J. has only been apart of the family ten months come the twenty-eighth of this month, there’s been a significant change in the Cullen clan’s atmosphere. It’s been…lighter; ironically livelier despite them all being undead. Having a sixteen year-old that hasn’t been stuck at the same age for a century, has been refreshing for the family; especially one as active and well…loud as A.J..

“Got it!” A.J. announced as she came booming down the stairs at a normal, rushed pace.

“Angel Jade, I swear one of these days you are going to break those stairs.” Esme teased as she gathered the plastic bags up.

A.J. walked down the hall and bounced into the kitchen with both of her sneakers on, “We heading out, yet?” she looked to Jasper and Alice who were leaning against each other while holding hands in the room next to the kitchen.

Alice drew her golden eyes from her husband, “Well, we were waiting for you.” she smiled at her sister.

“Right then,” A.J. grinned and clapped her hands once, “Les’ go!” she rolled her heels into a stride towards the open balcony door.

Jasper watched as A.J. strolled past them, “I thought we were gonna practice some volleyball?” he raised an eyebrow.

A.J. stopped abruptly before walking backwards, “I knew I forgetting something.” she flicked her wrist back and forth with her index finger extended, as if she were chiding herself.

Emmett smirked from his position between the kitchen counter and island, “Yeah, I’m sure you did.” he joked while leaning on the island with his chin resting in his hand.

“You’re also not going out with your hair looking like a mess.” Rosalie grabbed A.J.’s shoulders as the younger vampire walked past her, now in front of the island.

“What do you mean ‘mess’,” A.J.’s hands frantically flung up to her low pigtails, feeling frizzed up strands from Emmett’s hair-ruffling earlier, “Why didn’t someone tell me?”

Emmett watched as Rosalie pulled the two hair bands from A.J.’s hair, “To be fair, you’re heading out to the middle of the woods.”

A.J. scrunched her face up mockingly, “Nehh…!” she antagonized.

“Nehh…!” Emmett retaliated, copying her exact face.

“Nehh…!”

“Alright, enough.” Esme told the bickering duo.

Alice floated in the direction of the stairs that led up to the bedrooms, “Yes, please! I’d like Jasper to feed before Bella and Edward arrive.” she flashed upstairs.

“Ugh, the human,” Rosalie scoffed as she finished braiding the two small sections of A.J.’s hair and parted it down the center, “Remind me why we’re allowing this?” she tied the pigtails off.

“Come on, babe, give her a chance.” Emmett encouraged.

Rosalie spun on her heel, “You think the Volturi will ‘give us a chance’?” she scowled with crossed arms

A.J. watched as this transpired. Having only met Volturi once when she was first turned, not much was known of them on her part, other than Carlisle’s history with them. She didn’t see them as threatening; well, maybe Cauis; a little strange but not that strict…right? The way Rosalie talked about them, however, worried her…would they all be killed if the Volturi found out about Edward and Bella’s relationship?

“Rose, please,” Carlisle pleaded, “Everything will be fine.” he promised with a reassuring smile.

Carlisle words seem to put A.J.’s fears at ease, or perhaps it was the doing of her fellow Texan brother who’s eyes she felt on the back of her head.

Alice appeared next to A.J. with a gentle blow of wind, “Took me a second, but I found your volleyball.” she placed her small hand on A.J.’s shoulder and handed her the ball, “Your room’s a mess.”

“It’s not that bad.” A.J. brushed it off with a nonchalant expression.

“A.J., didn’t we tell you to clean your room three days ago?” Esme asked, referencing the conversation her and Carlisle had with A.J.

A.J. looked to her left, piecing together her memory of the other night. A memory of her putting clothes away popped into her mind.

She looked back at her mother who was handing Carlisle a large skillet, “I did!” she told them.

“You’re room does not support your notion, Angel.” Alice’s eyes twinkled, a smirk plastered on her face.

A.J. pressed her lips into a thin line, “I did though, truly. It’s only messy today because I lost my shoe which EMMETT stole, so technically it’s his fault.” she explained using her hands.

“Hey, don’t go blaming this on me,” he stood to his full height, “You’re the one who can’t keep track of your shoes.”

“I-wha-YOU STOLE MY SHOE!” A.J. flailed her arms in his direction causing Alice to let go of her shoulder move back to where Jasper was.

Emmett scoffed, “I did not steal your shoe, I simply took it from your room and placed it under the sink.” his dopey smirk never left his face.

A.J. crossed her arms, “Okay, so you stole AND hid my shoe; that’s like double illegal.”

“I’m pretty sure hiding someone’s shoe is not illegal-stealing, maybe, but not when it’s your little sister’s.” he defended himself.

Just as A.J. was about to retaliate, Alice cut her off, “We’re going to leave without you, you know?” she teased.

A.J.’s head snapped in Alice’s direction, “Yeah-yeah, sorry, let’s go!”

“Oh, wait,” Esme stopped her, “Here, don’t wanna forget this.”

Esme stepped over to the fridge and wrapped her strong hand around the metal handle of the freezer side and pulled it open. She pulled out a pink, portable cup with the letter ‘A’ on it in black. Though one would not be able to figure it it’s contents without further inspection, a strong whiff of animal blood flooded the senses of the surrounding vampires.

A.J. met Esme in the middle and took the cup from her mother’s hand.

“Don’t forget to drink up, alright, sweetie.” A soft smile graced the woman’s face.

A.J. grinned back, “Of course!” she shrugged her shoulders as she tucked the cup into the mesh side pocket of her backpack, and button the leather strap to lock it in.

“Finally,” Alice exasperated, “Come on!” she waved her hand towards herself before she zipped off through the balcony door, Jasper following her.

“Aight, see ya guys later.” A.J. saluted them with her index and middle finger while slinging her backpack over shoulder before looping it over the other.

“Be safe, love you!” Esme called after them.

“Oh, and don’t forget to go farther out this time,” A.J. stopped in her tracks at Carlise’s reminder, “We don’t want a repeat of last time.”

A gentle breeze blew against A.J.’s marble-like skin as she walked through the opening, “I know. Also that was completely Edward’s fault; he’s a terrible blocker.” she remarked before zipping off.

“Even I gotta side with Aje this time,” Emmett spoke up as he spun a white bowl in his hands, “It was coming right at him.”

The three remaining vampires chuckled.

“Though let’s try to not break any more windows.” Carlisle smiled.

—————————

Though they had a good head start, A.J. easily caught up to Jasper and Alice. Thanks to her enhanced agility; even more so than the average vampire and newborn; the youngest of the Cullen Coven leaped and swerved around fallen and standing trees, rocks, and even over a deer which she could get tackled behind her. A sickening crack echoed in her ears, a tell tale sign Jasper had found his appetizer. If she could vomit, she would have. Even as a vampire A.J. could barely stand the sight of blood, let alone a mutilated animal. A memory of a past teammate in seventh grade getting a softball chucked at her face popped into her head. The way the crimson liquid poured out of her crooked nose; the way it glistened a gorgeous scarlet color in the afternoon sunlight.

She shook her head at the conflicting thought, thankful Edward was not with them at the moment. A seed of doubt planted itself in her mind that she would lack the self-control, she had previously prided herself on, when in Bella’s presence. If Edward had been with them, he would have immediately told her she couldn’t meet Bella. Although that made perfect sense, A.J. was irritated at the thought of not getting to meet someone new when she’s been quarantined for months.

“Screw Edward.” she thought to herself.

“I’ll get by out of pure spite.” a silent promise was made to herself.

All of her siblings had met the human girl at school; which A.J. was still not cleared to go to, having to be homeschooled until the next school year; but A.J. had yet to meet her. Carlise, Esme, and Edward had been mentally preparing the newborn to be in close contact with a human. Though she had been in public a few times in the past 6 months, it was only a car ride through Forks or to a convenience store or park late at night to ‘ease her in’ as they said.

There wasn’t a doubt in her mind that they knew what they were doing, considering they’re all at least a hundred years old and she’s the inexperienced, ‘blood-thirsty’ newborn. A.J. simply missed going out, hanging with friends, being able to eat food, playing sports.

‘Gosh, do I miss volleyball.” She thought to herself as she tucked the ball she had been carrying between her right arm and side.

In a blink, A.J. was in the air and her left hand wrapped around a splintered tree branch. Once her full weight pulled on the weak limb, it snapped just as quickly as she had gripped it. She could hear Alice and Jasper come rushing from behind her, ready to help to their sister in a moments notice. Fortunately for A.J.’s pride, she kicked her legs out to the left and pushed off of the solid trunk of the tall tree. Her momentum from the kick sent her flying to the adjacent tree, which she kicked off of as well sending her to diagonal to a smaller tree.

The vampire repeated this pattern for four more trees before bouncing off the last tree into the clearing. As she propelled herself, A.J. spun around to face Alice and Jasper and spiked her specially made volleyball at her adopted brother. Before her eyes saw him catch it, she flipped backward and pounded her feet onto the green grass with her arms extended outward.

“Ha-ha,” an astonished look was plastered on her square face as Alice and Jasper appeared in front of her, “I don’t think I’ll ever get used to being able to move like that.”

The corner of Jasper’s mouth quirked up as he laughed through his nose, “Nice save,” Jasper remarked and hurled the volleyball back to her with two hands.

A.J. let out an ‘oomph’ at the unexpected force her brother threw with, “Hey!”

“What? Can’t take what you dish?” Alice leaned her right shoulder toward her in a teasing manner.

“I can,” A.J. straightened her back and tucked the ball between her arm and side again, “I just wasn’t expecting it is all.”

“Now explain to me how you were star volleyball-and softball player-might I add-when you can’t anticipate your opponents strength?” Jasper antagonized, holding his wrists behind his back.

Alice giggled from next to him.

A.J. let her mouth fall open, “I’ll have you know I can do that no prob, I was just thrown off guard. I did just save myself from falling on my ass.”

“Well that’s no excuse, is it?” Alice’s large eyes glimmered.

“I-alright, I ain’t got a way to defend myself,” A.J. flipped her hands up, “Now, are we ‘volleyballing’?”

Jasper glanced at Alice, communicating in way A.J. has yet to learn. They shared a soft smile before Jasper raised Alice’s dainty hand to his lips and gently kissed it. A.J. watched their interaction with a twisted look of disgust, her un-humanly white teeth on full display from the way her wide lips were pulled back.

“Alright, ya freaks, let’s tone it down there, all right,” Alice and Jasper snickered at A.J.’s remark, “I’m serious, that’s disgusting.” she pretended to gag.

Alice briefly turned back to her sister, “You’ll understand one day when you find your mate, just like Jasper and I.” her head swiveled to gaze into her lovers eyes.

“Not for a long time, hopefully.” A.J. and Jasper spoke together.

A.J.’s expressive eyes snapped to her brother’s, “Well now I want it to happen sooner.” she smirked.

Jasper placed a strong hand onto his chest, “Just to spite me?” he returned the smirk.

“Just to spite you.”

He turned to look at Alice with a feign look of betrayal on his pale face, “My own baby sister. Choosin’ someone she ain’t never met over me, out of spite,” he strolled over to A.J. who was struggling to keep a straight face, “We might as well just send ya off right now, to get it over with. What d’ya think, Alice?”

A.J. watched with cautious eyes as Jasper got closer to her, one arm pinned behind his back and the right still resting on his blue, button down shirt. A giggle came from Alice, which caused A.J.‘s focus to switch to her. Using the distraction to his advantage, Jasper lunged at his sister and wrapped his long arms around her torso and backpack. He pinned her arms against her sides, pulling her flush against his chest, and lifted her off of the ground.

The newborn erupted into a fit of laughter as her brother spun her around, playfully threatening her in his smooth, southern drawl. Her joyful emotions intensified his own, reminding him how effervescent the Cullen’s house has been since A.J.’s arrival. Even for those who didn’t possess Jasper’s ability of pathokinesis; the bright, humorous nature of the girl infected them like a narcotic. Emmett’s playful behavior in particular, has only been amplified; finally able to embrace the ‘brotherly’ position.

All of the Cullen children had seem to enjoy the new ‘youngest sister’ dynamic. Rosalie and Alice were constantly buying clothing slightly too small or big for themselves, or ‘accidentally’ buying the wrong shade of foundation as an excuse to use A.J. as their own personal ‘Barbie doll’ and share their older sister wisdom with her whilst doing so.

Edward took a liking to her ‘jabbering’ as he played the piano or simply sat in his room; though she would sometimes talk his head off to which he would use the excuse of needing to hunt, knowing his newfound sister wouldn’t accompany him.

Emmett was often caught roughhousing with his little sister, to which Rosalie or Esme would get on to him for being too rough, only for A.J. to immediately after slam him to the floor. Emmett also throughly enjoyed her chatter but unlike Edward, he would chat aimlessly hours on end with her; after all what more can you fill your time with when you’re up day after day.

The memory of Jasper’s and A.J.’s first time meeting surfaced to the front of his mind. A tsunami of dread and sorrow filled him when Carlisle and Esme arrived at the Denali house with a newly changed A.J.. The sight of her frightened form had filled Jasper with pity, remembering how lonesome he himself felt during his first few weeks as a vampire, though it was long ago.

A gentle breeze blew through the forest, pulling Jasper from his thoughts. The trees blossoming petals and leaves shook as the wind rustled past them; a strong scent of a large black bear bombarded the three vampires noses.

The older Texan’s entire body stiffened before he set A.J. down. His topaz eyes snapped in the direction of the predators scent. The average joe would only be able to see brush and blossoming petals, but Jasper’s enhanced sight allowed him to peer deeper into the woods; past the brush and green leaves, the small birds and rodents, and straight at the big, burly bear.

“You go ahead, Jaz,” Alice told him, “I’ll stay here with Aje.” she spoke as if she knew what’s going to happen; which she often did.

Jasper nodded at them with a hardened stare before zipping through the circular, open field the Cullen’s use to play baseball.

The two women watched as he left the clearing; a gust of wind shaking the flora Jasper ran past.

Alice clasped her hands in front of herself, “All right, are we practicing?” she spun on the balls of her flats to face A.J..

A.J. turned her attention back to Alice, “Hell yeah, man!” she smiled as she slid her backpack off and tossed to the side.

“Crap!” A.J. exclaimed when she remembered her portable cup sitting in the side pocket of her backpack.

A sigh of relief left her cold lips when the cups lid had stayed on tight and had not spilled a drop. The small opening of the lid clicked open as slid the vertical top down and brought it to her lips. The cool blood was smooth on her tongue and coated her throat as she took a swig. After a few seconds, A.J. Lowered the cup from her mouth and bent down to tuck it back into mesh side pocket of her backpack.

Before the cup slid into the pocket, A.J. abruptly stopped before turning to look up at Alice who was bumping the volleyball. A.J. swung her arm left arm up with the cup in hand.

“Did ‘ja want some?” A.J. asked Alice, her teeth currently stained red without her knowing.

Alice looked down and giggled.

“No, thank you,” she ceased her bumping, “I hunted this morning. Also, you-,”

Alice barred her teeth and pointed at her pristine teeth with her manicured pointer finger to reference A.J.’s stained mouth.

“Oh!” A.J. exclaimed and immediately closed her mouth and licked her teeth cleaned.

Her tongue clicked as she finished cleaning her teeth and opened her mouth to speak.

“Am I good?” she barred her now white teeth at her adopted sister.

Alice playfully squinted at her to get a ‘better look’.

“You’re all good, Ange,” Alice smiled before transforming into a competitive expression, “Now…are we playing volleyball, or what?” her head turned to the side, eyes still on A.J.

In a blink, A.J.’s cup was back in her bag and she had snatched the volleyball out of Alice’s hand. A.J. then zipped over to the opposite side of the field with a smirk plastered on her tan face.

“Did you see that coming?” Alice raised an eyebrow as A.J. teased her from across the field.

“Unfortunately not,” Alice started, “But I did see Edward and Bella will arrive in exactly 29 minutes.”

The older vampire watched as her sister’s eyes scrunched up as a wide smile spread across her face. While filled with excitement, A.J. bopped the volleyball quite a few feet in the air before leaping up to match the height and spiking it down at Alice.

And the two engaged in a moderately epic volleyball match.

—————————

This is a major slow burn fanfic (as previously stated) so it’ll be a few chapter before some romance happens. Thank you for reading and stay tuned

84 notes · View notes

xetswan · 4 months

Text

IMAGINES- Jasper x reader

My Star

(This was requested months ago and I’m so sorry I’m just now putting this out 😭)

Twilight Masterlist

In which Jasper lost his “Star” before turning into a vampire and years later spots her with his new vegetarian family.

“Are you sure you’re ready for this?” Carlisle asked Jasper whose eyes were widened already trying to control his thirst around all the humans.

He nodded his head.

Edward and Emmett stood on either side of him.

“If it gets too much let one of us know.” Alice stood in front of Jasper with a sweet smile on her face.

The family thought Alice and Jasper would end up together due to how much he trusted her but Alice knew she wasn’t the one for him.

He mourned for his lover before them.

Before turning.

She knew that was the only woman for him.

And he was glad she understand, not having to speak on it. The pain was too much for him to bare so he kept silent about it.

“Yes, ma’am.” He smiles down at the girl, his hands laid behind him, clasped together.

“Alright, you got this.” She nods at him, getting out of their way and the three men enter together. The rest of the family behind them.

As they entered the loud building the energy switched.

Jasper focused on the music that played, watching the girls that kicked their feet and played with the bottoms of their dresses as they danced.

The men that encourage them, cheering them on.

He scanned the room, observing.

“I want to dance.” Rosalie stated behind them.

“Let’s dance then baby!” Emmett boomed.

Edward furrowed his brows trying to remind them of why they were here.

Alice placed a hand on his shoulder. “Let them have fun.” She nods her head to assure him.

Edward makes eye contact with Carlisle who also allows it, taking Esme’s hand and taking her to dance.

He scoffs, staying sternly next to Jasper.

Jasper still scanned the room, not paying attention to his new family. Alice joined Jasper’s other side and took his hand.

“Want to try to dance too?” She had a lot of hope and confidence in him.

Something he could say the same for.

The blood burning his nose as he tried his hardest to hold it in.

“I don’t know, honestly.” He answers her, his nose flaring but he tries to hold it in.

“You got this, trust me.” She pulls him onto the dance floor as well.

Alice begins to twist her hips, following the rhythm of the music.

“C’mon!” She encourages, now kicking her feet and moving his arms for him.

“I don’t know how to dance.” He begins to smile.

“Just follow my lead.” She gets more into and he finally follows suit, the burning in his nose still there but she distracts him from it.

Edward still stood there, solemnly.

Watching Jasper’s every move, making sure he doesn’t get caught up and switch like a light.

As Jasper dances, he glances around again.

A shine of a light flashes on a man and he stares at the guy for a little bit before moving alone onto the next thing.

This time his eyes spot a lady.

A lady who looks oddly familiar.

Her hair bouncing as she dances and laughs.

Time freezes for him. Alice notices his change in posture. His moves slow down.

“Jasper?” She turns to see what he’s looking at. Edward comes up to them, pulling them off the dance floor.

“What happened?” Edward aggressively questions.

“I- I don’t know.” Alice stammers, Jasper’s eyes don’t leave the girl he saw.

“Jasper, what’s going on?” Edward grabs onto the mans shoulders.

“I see her.” Is all that leaves his lips.

“See who?” Alice asks, gently pushing Edward out of the way.

“My star.” He whispers, shoving past Alice and Edward, the girl left the dance floor and to the bar.

He stays feet away but watch her every movement just like Edward was doing to him.

But for him, he was trying to see if it’s true.

If it’s his star. As she got her drink, Edward grabs onto him once again.

“Jasper, you can’t do that.” Glaring at the man who doesn’t seem to be there. Not paying attention to his “brother.”

She’s on the move once again, a man beside her this time. She’s flirting with him and Jasper feels a pang in his chest.

She laugh and he hears it for a split second. That’s how he knew, it’s her.

It’s his star.

She grabs onto the man’s shirt that she’s flirting with and guides him outside into the back of the building. Jasper realizes he needs to get Edward off of his back.

He looks around trying to find something to do so. Alice watches Jasper’s movements and then she gets a vision.

Holding onto the wall once it’s over.

She grins and goes over to Edward.

“Eddie!” She laughs vibrantly, grabbing onto the boy and spinning him around. “Please dance with me!” She then spins herself with his hand. “Alice, now’s not the time.”

“When ever is there a time, Edward.” She pouts, then glances at Jasper and widens her eyes, telling him to go as she distracts the boy.

He mouths a “thank you” before rushing off. Following who he believes is his lover.

He exits the building, now being quiet.

He looks around for her. Not spotting her as the wind blows in the air. The moon shining down on him and the body of water ahead.

He takes a few steps out, he hears some noises of a man whimpering, gargling his own blood.

The blood smell fills Jasper’s nostrils.

He feels enticed by it, his body moving slowly towards the dying body feet away from him. It’s the man that she came out with.

It’s the same man from before.

And before he can get any closer his body flies to the ground with a thud. Someone pinning him down. “Who are you?” A voice questions, shoving him further into the ground.

The lady not getting a look at him.

He grunts, trying to fight her off. Slowly he stops fighting, trying to get a good look at her face.

“My star.” He huffs out, his hands laid next to him and her strength weakens on him. Pulling her hands back.

“Jasper?” Her voice breaks, this time he flips them over and pins her down. Not harshly.

She laughs loudly.

“My Jasper!” She squeals, not able to do anything but she kicks her feet to the ground as he stares down at her with a grin.

“[Name], I thought you were dead.” He tells her, observing every feature upon her face.

“I thought you were dead.” She lifts her head up to tell him. He lets her arms go but still straddles her waist, slightly hovering above her though.

“You’re one of them too?” He notices the blood that drips from her mouth.

“I was turned after you left, they invaded our home.” She informs him, leaning up on her elbows. He closes his eyes, shaking his head.

“I should’ve been with you.” He mentally beats himself up.

“Hey! Who’s back here?!” A voice shouts and the two scramble up. Jasper grabs her hand, yanking her away from the scene. They hide behind a vehicle as a sheriff flashes a light around the area they were just at.

He finds the body and gasps. [Name] giggles to herself, watching from the window of the car.

She looks down at Jasper with a smile, gripping his hand and she guides him to the lake in a fast movement.

“You eat humans?” He suddenly asks her. She furrows her brows. “What else would I eat, darling?” She bends down, cleaning the blood off of her face. Luckily none of it got onto her dress.

“Animals.” He responds in a quiet tone.

“Your family’s one of the vegetarians?” She sat on her knees but turned her body to his direction.

“Your’s isn’t?” He tilts his head.

“I don’t have one. I’ve been alone since they killed everyone in our village.” She hums, playing with the water.

“Everyone?” He repeats.

She then realizes how insensitive she sounds, that was his family too. “The Volturi, since everyone grew in havoc they deemed us dead. No hope for any of us to be civil enough to live out in the world.” She thinks back to her memories of when it all happened, the fire.

“I escaped without anyone realizing. I’ve been on the run for a while.” She stands up.

“Before the village was turned they told me you died. I had no reason of living. But then I was turned and I couldn’t even kill myself. It was tragic.” She places a hand on his cheek, rubbing it gently.

“Did you ever return home?” She goes to take her hand back but he grabs it, keeping it on his face. Cradling her hand.

“No, she told me you were dead and I couldn’t bare to see your name on a grave.” He spoke softly.

“She?” She furrows her brows.

“Maria. She turned me. Made me her personal soldier after she told me you were dead.” He closes his eyes trying to fight back the memory of him falling to his knees when he found out his star was dead.

“I’ll kill her.” Venom laces in [Name]’s voice but Jasper chuckles.

“She’s dead, my Star.” He shakes his head.

“Good, she’ll never experience my torture.” She half-jokes. Knowing there’s some truth to it.

“Never leave my side again.” He kisses her hand, pulling her into his arms.

“Never again.” She agrees, laying her head on his chest. It was cut off by yelling.

“Jasper!” His siblings were looking for him, he grabbed [Name], holding her close to him as the family found the man.

“Who is this?” Rosalie was the first to question. Esme held Carlisle’s hand. Alice clapped her hands.

“It’s her!” She grinned. Jasper gave the shorter girl an earnest smile.

“Her?” Rosalie gave a dirty look, still confused. “It’s [Name], his passed lover.” Carlisle announces.

Edward then lets it all hit him.

That’s why he was acting weird in the building. Relief also hits him when he doesn’t see blood all over him. Just a little on the girl next to him.

723 notes · View notes

laceswan · 10 months

Text

Fic Recommendations <3

Stray Kids

1-am, Kim Seungmin x gn!reader, fluff-@northsoulss

Closer than Friends, Kim Seungmin x gn!reader, fluff- @dreamescapeswriting

Invisible Ties, Kim Seungmin x gn!reader, childhood friends to lovers, hurt/comfort, fluff- @starseungs

7:30 pm, Kim Seungmin x gn!reader, so much fluff- @dreamyyeosang

Lipgloss, Kim Seungmin x gn!reader, angst, fluff ending- @hanjisick

Movies, photographer!Kim Seungmin x model!gn!reader, angst, fluff ending- @comet-falls

Wanted if Forever, Kim Seungmin x fem!reader, angst, fluff ending, hurt/comfort- @miel-ji

(Untitled Christmas headcannons), Kim Seungmin x fem!reader, fluff- @sunboki

Dense, Bang Chan x fem!reader, angst- @sunwoowrites

Yeah, Flowers Follow, Seo Changbin x florist!fem!reader, fluff- @catiuskaa

Breakup HCs, Maknae line (hyung line is linked) x fem!reader, ANGST- @dazed—xx

Soft hours tag @rachalixie

Stray Kids Fic Rec List @insidetheravens

Ateez

(Untitled first kiss drabble), Choi San x gn!reader, fluff, mild spice- @bubblyyeonjun

i'm glad i have you with me, Choi San x fem!reader, fluff, hurt/comfort, childhood friends to lovers, slow burn- @mybelovedwoo

Hunger Games

Harry Potter

Hidden Messages in Foreign Languages, Regulus Black x fem!reader, fluff- @applebutter-and-cinnamon

Sleepy, Regulus Black x gn!reader, fluff- @queerpumpkinnn

so tired, Regulus Black x gn!reader, hurt/comfort- @gilmore-angel

Falling, Regulus Black x fem!ravenclaw!reader, fluff- @ardisia-florence-james

Kissing with Regulus Black would include, Regulus Black x fem!reader, fluff- @angelblacksmith

The Brothers Black, Regulus Black x fem!reader, slight angst, fluff- @sufferingstarlight

A Snake and his Little Bird, Regulus Black x fem!sunshine!reader, some angst, hurt/comfort- @robynlilyblack

Regulus Black Masterlist- @messers-moony

Deadly Favors, Theseus Scamander x gn!reader, angst, fluff ending- @spideyharrington

The Legend of Vox Machina (Critical Role)

(Untitled proposal fic), Percy de Rolo x gn!reader, fluff- @saphirered

Floriography, Percy de Rolo x fem!OC, fluff- @leopardfang15

In the Glade, Percy de Rolo x gn!reader, fluff- @finn-writes-stuff

Mha

Your Soldier, Knight!Takami Keigo x Princess!reader, Royalty AU, fluff- @livlivlivliv

Crimson and Cloves, Todoroki Shoto x fem!reader, Hanahaki AU, angst- @gcpards

(Untitled drabble), Shinsou Hitoshi x gn!reader, so much angst, major character death, fluff ending- @alienaiver

Iida Tenya Masterlist, CONTAINS SOME SMUT YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED- @lovinkiri

Haikyuu

HQ Masterlist- @215-luv

HQ Imagines Masterlist- @arhvste

(Untitled drabble), Sakusa Kiyoomi x gn!reader, fluff- @kentolove

Touch-Averse, Sakusa Kiyoomi x fem!reader, angst, hurt/comfort, fluff ending- @watevermelon

You Look Pretty When You Do the Laundry, Sakusa Kiyoomi x gn!reader, fluff- @otoyastoy

I Need to Talk to You, Akaashi Keiji x fem!reader, fluff- @otoyastoy

JuJutsu Kaisen

Sweet Love, Nanami Kento x gn!reader, fluff- @haruchuiyo

Kitchen Charm, Domestic!Nanami Kento x gn!reader, fluff- @itsfairly

Masterlist, CONTAINS SOME SMUT YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED- @kentosbabes

rich bf nanami headcannons, Nanami Kento x impliedfem!reader, fluff- @kiyoily

Star Wars

If Only pt. 1 (part 2 is linked), Obi-Wan Kenobi x gn!reader, angst- @make-me-imagine

(Untitled breakup drabble), Poe Dameron x gn!reader, angst- @never—doubt

The Arrival of the Pilots, Poe Dameron x gn!reader, mild angst, fluff- @gawaaine

Twilight

Insomnia, Jasper Hale x fem!human!reader, fluff- @junkdrawerfics

Heartbeat, Jasper Hale x fem!human!reader, fluff- @3vergr3en

Squid Game

Eliminated, Hwang Junho x gn!reader, fluff- @sweetenercode

Dating HCs, Hwang Junho x fem!not korean!reader, fluff- @sophiewritesworld

The World Will Suffer, Hwang Junho x gn!reader, angst- @philomaay

Dating HCs, Hwang Junho x gn!reader, fluff- @saebyeoked

Real People

when you fall asleep, Chris Evans x actress!reader, fluff- @imyourbratzdoll

#fic rec #rec list #skz fic recs #vox machina #tlovm #tlovm fic recs #regulus black #regulus black fic recs #Poe Dameron #Poe Dameron fic recs #x reader fic recs #Skz x reader #regulus black x reader #poe dameron x reader

149 notes · View notes

fanficapologist · 3 months

Text

Of Dragons and Maelstroms

Themes and Warnings: slow burn, enemies to lovers, blood, violence, explicit language, sexual violence, period-typical misogyny, sexual themes, smut, tension, marriage, jealousy, pregnancy, childbirth, miscarriage, attempted sexual assault, breastfeeding, major character death, divergent timelines

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the House of The Dragon/Fire & Blood/Game of Thrones characters nor do I claim to own them. I do not own any of the images used nor do I claim to own them.

Chapter Sixty-Three

As twilight descended over the Red Keep, casting long shadows through the stained glass windows of the Small Council Chambers, the room took on a serene yet somber atmosphere. The flickering light of torches and the warm glow of candle flames danced across the polished wooden table at the center of the chamber, casting fleeting shadows on the faces of those gathered. The table itself was strewn with maps, scrolls, and various parchments, evidence of the weighty matters discussed within these walls.

The air was heavy with the scent of parchment and ink, mingling with the faint aroma of the lavender-scented candles that adorned the room. The walls, adorned with tapestries depicting scenes of Westerosi history and heraldry, seemed to come alive in the fading light, their intricate details illuminated by the dying embers of the day. The chairs surrounding the table were occupied by members of the Small Council, their expressions grave as they discussed matters of state and strategy in hushed tones.

At the head of the table, King Aegon sat with his Conqueror's Crown resting heavily upon his brow, his expression a mixture of frustration and weariness. His hand propped up his head as he listened to the debate unfold before him. Lord Otto, the Hand of the King, sat to Aegon’s immediate right and was at forefront of the discussion, his voice firm and commanding as he laid out his arguments. On the opposite side of the table, the Master of Ships, Ser Tyland Lannister leaned forward in his seat, his words sharp and decisive. Beside him, Lord Jasper Wylde, Maera's father and Master of Laws, offered his own insights, his voice measured but firm as he defended his positions.

In the midst of the debate, the Master of Whispers, Lord Larys, sat back in his chair, his sharp eyes taking in every detail of the proceedings. His lips remained sealed, but his gaze spoke volumes as he observed the interactions between the council members. Across from him, Maester Orwyle engaged in a quiet conversation with the dowager Queen Alicent, who sat two empty seats away from her father, the Hand.

Two additional seats were arranged at the end of the table, closest to the entrance of the chambers. The first was occupied by young Prince Daeron, his youthful features twisted into a scowl as he drummed his fingers impatiently against the polished wooden surface of the table. His presence indicated that the matters being discussed were of utmost importance, though his demeanor suggested a lack of enthusiasm for the proceedings. The second seat was swiftly claimed by Ser Criston Cole, as he entered the chambers before Aemond and Maera. His presence commanded respect as he took his place at the table, his expression serious and focused as he prepared to lend his counsel to the council’s deliberations.

Throughout the chamber, several other members of the Kingsguard could be seen, their white cloaks and gleaming armor marking them as the sworn protectors of the royal family. Among them was Ser Arryk Cargyll, Maera’s own protector, his steadfast presence a reassuring presence amidst the tumultuous discussions taking place within the chamber. Making their way to the table, Aemond, ledgers under his arm and ever composed, led Maera to the available seats, his hand resting reassuringly on her shoulder as she sat next to Alicent. Once she was settled, the One-Eyed Prince took the seat next to his grandfather and looked to him as he continued the heated debate with the other councillors.

As Maera observed the busy chambers, she couldn’t shake the feeling of being out of place amidst discussions of warfare and strategy. Why had Aegon even asked her to be there? The weight of responsibility bore down on her shoulders as she listened intently to the heated debates unfolding around her. At first, the intricacies of military tactics and political maneuvering seemed overwhelming, but as she continued to listen, she began to grasp the nuances of the Green’s positions in the ongoing conflict.

"The threat of invasion from the North looms large, and we must take decisive action to protect our borders. We cannot afford to squander our resources on frivolous campaigns!”

“"And what of our naval forces? We need to invest more money into them and secure our coastal territories to prevent any further advances by the Velaryon fleet.”

“Our finances are steadily increasing from the slight raise in taxes, but it may not be enough to support army numbers just yet. The Stormlands and the Westerlands are also asking for financial aid in order to prevent Rhaenyra’s forces from marching into their territories.”

Despite her initial discomfort, Maera found herself drawn into the fray of debate, her sharp mind quickly picking up on the various arguments being presented. Yet, amidst the cacophony of voices clamoring for attention, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of déjà vu. The bickering and squabbling reminded her all too vividly of the spirited discussions that had filled the dinner table at Rain House during her youth.

As the councilmen argued and shouted to make their voices heard, Maera couldn’t help but feel a pang of despair. If this was the way politics were typically handled by the men of Westeros, she feared for the future of the Realm. With a sigh, she rested her head in her hands, the din of squabbling voices echoing in her ears, a stark reminder of the challenges ahead.

The heated arguments abruptly halted as the chamber was pierced by the sharp sound of hands slamming onto the wooden table. Maera instinctively turned her head toward the source of the commotion, her gaze falling upon Aegon, his countenance darkened with frustration and impatience. With a resounding screech, the King pushed back his chair and rose to his feet, his towering presence dominating the room. His expression was thunderous, his brows furrowed in a mix of anger and exasperation as he addressed his advisors.

"My son is dead," Aegon announced in a hushed yet ominous voice, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air. "And the daughter that grew in Helaena’s womb did not even have a chance to enter the world."

The deep breathing of every single person in the room could be heard as they looked at their King, their faces reflecting a mixture of shock and sorrow. Aegon continued with a dark chuckle, his tone tinged with bitterness. "My wife has sunk even further into madness because of it, which even I did not think possible."

Maera couldn't help but frown at this statement aimed at poor Helaena, her heart aching for the Queen's suffering.

Lord Otto, ever the voice of reason, was the first to dare to break the silence. "The loss of Jaehaerys is a grave tragedy," he acknowledged solemnly. "But we must continue. We cannot let this crime go unpunished."

Standing from his seat, Lord Otto approached Aegon and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "There is a reason Jaehaerys was murdered," he continued, his voice steady and resolute. "Because deep down, even Rhaenyra knew that you are the rightful King. And because she could not stand that fact, she attempted to weaken you by taking away your heir."

The room fell silent once more, the weight of Lord Otto's words hanging in the air as the councilors contemplated the grim reality of their situation.

To everyone's surprise, Aegon's cold stare bore into his Grandfather, his eyes glossy with suppressed emotion as he spoke with chilling clarity. "The only reason we are here is because of you," he stated icily, his words cutting through the tension in the room like a knife. The other council members leaned forward, their expressions a mix of curiosity and apprehension, as if eager to witness the unfolding confrontation.

"Your Grace?" Lord Otto replied, his tone cautious as he addressed his grandson. Despite their familial ties, Aegon was still his King, and Otto knew he would have to tread carefully if he wanted to keep his head.

Aegon's sneer only deepened as he continued, his accusation pointed and unforgiving. "Viserys loses his wife and his son, yet you immediately paraded your young daughter under his nose in order to climb the ladder of power."

"That is enough, Aegon," dowager Queen Alicent interjected from across the table, her voice carrying a note of warning. But Aegon silenced his mother with a cold stare that spoke volumes.

Turning his attention back to Lord Otto, Aegon's voice dripped with disdain. "I bet you were thrilled when mother birthed me. A child of your blood, a contender to the throne."

"You were the King's firstborn son," Otto growled in response. "The crown was always meant to be yours."

Aegon's retort was swift and cutting, his words laced with bitterness and accusation. "So you usurped the throne the minute Viserys' heart stopped, taking it from Rhaenyra, whose claim Viserys steadfastly upheld, causing a fucking war?!" His voice echoed through the chamber, the weight of his accusation hanging heavy in the air.

Maera sensed Aemond’s tension beside her, his body rigid with silent frustration at the escalating argument. Without hesitation, she reached out and placed her hand on his, offering a silent reassurance amidst the mounting tension. Though Aemond didn’t turn to acknowledge her, he intertwined his fingers with hers, a subtle acknowledgment of her presence and support.

Lord Otto's retort reverberated through the chamber, his voice rising with indignation. "The Realm would not have accepted her as Queen! If she had taken the throne, you, your brothers, your wife, your children, would all have been put to the sword as to not challenge her!"

Aegon genuinely laughed at his Grandfather’s reasoning , his response dripping with scorn. Maera couldn't help but ponder Otto's concerns, though the notion of Rhaenyra resorting to such brutal measures seemed incongruent with the image of the beloved queen the Realm revered. Still, she understood the fear that gripped Queen Alicent and her children in the face of such perceived threats.

Scratching his head beneath his crown, Aegon fixed his gaze back on Otto, his expression hardening with resolve. "You said the Ironborn would back us, they have not. Then you suggested the Dornish, who have not. Then you assure me that Westeros backs my claim, and yet over half of it has flocked to Rhaenyra's cause," Aegon declared, his frustration palpable as he addressed the council. Turning to the assembled councilors, Aegon pressed on, his voice ringing with determination. "If you were stupid and power-hungry enough to plunge us into war off of baseless fears and lies, the least you could have done is ensure we win it!"

Before the tension could escalate further, Aemond's voice cut through the room, his tone measured and neutral as he addressed his brother. "Aegon," he interjected, his words a plea for calm amidst the storm of emotions that threatened to consume them all.

Aegon's gaze met Aemond's, a fleeting moment of unspoken understanding passing between the brothers. Maera, silently praying beside her husband, hoped that Aegon's anger wouldn't be redirected at Aemond. Instead, Aegon cleared his throat, redirecting his attention to Lord Otto with an exasperated sigh.

"Viserys may have been weak and stupid, but he did one thing during his reign that I thought was smart," Aegon declared. In a swift, unsettling movement, he removed the golden pin that signified the Hand of the King from Lord Otto's breast pocket. Gasps filled the room, and Aemond shot up from his seat, fists clenched, his eyes fixed on the dishonoring act.

Alicent's voice cut through the tension, her tone pleading as she addressed her son. "Aegon, please. Your grandfather has been nothing but loyal to the crown. He does not deserve this."

Aegon replied, his words biting. "Your heart has made you soft, and turn a blind eye to his countless failings." Without meeting his grandfather's eyes, Aegon made a final demand. "I suggest you get out of these chambers while I think about what to do with you, lest I send you back to Oldtown in my anger. Go."

With uncertainty pooling in her stomach, Maera watched as Lord Otto, former Hand of the King, obliged the command, leaving the chambers. The heavy wooden door closed behind him with a resounding thud, leaving the remaining council members in an uneasy silence. In the wake of the tense exchange, a palpable tension hung in the air, stifling any attempts at conversation. The councilmen exchanged furtive glances, each seemingly lost in their own thoughts, unsure of how to proceed in the wake of the king's outburst.

Maera felt a mix of emotions swirling within her, a combination of apprehension, frustration, and a deep-seated concern for the state of the realm. The weight of the ongoing war, coupled with the discord among the king's advisors, weighed heavily on her shoulders, casting a shadow over the once bustling chamber. Despite her efforts to remain composed, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled over her, a stark reminder of the tumultuous times in which they lived.

As Aegon set his sights on Aemond, Maera's heart quickened with apprehension, fearing the king's wrath for her husband's earlier reaction. She watched intently, her gaze locked on the scene unfolding before her, as Aegon stood before Aemond with an air of authority that belied his stature. The tension in the room was palpable as Aegon looked down at the pin of the Hand of the King, still in his hand. Maera's breath caught in her throat as she watched, uncertain of what the king's intentions were. But then, to her surprise and relief, Aegon secured the pin to Aemond's doublet, an unexpected gesture that left the prince visibly taken aback.

“Don’t fuck this up,” was all Aegon said to his brother, before stepping back to his seat at the table and swigging his goblet of wine. The room erupted into murmurs and whispers as the significance of Aegon's actions sank in. A mixture of emotions washed over Maera as she observed the exchange, relief flooding through her at the realization that Aegon was not intending to punish her husband. Instead, it seemed he was bestowing a significant honor upon Aemond, elevating him to the esteemed position of Hand of the King.

Maera's heart swelled with pride for her husband, a sense of awe washing over her as she watched him accept the pin, his expression a mix of surprise and determination. She wondered to herself if the words she had said to Aegon all those days ago had actually registered with him. In that moment, Maera felt a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos, a flicker of optimism for the future of House Targaryen and the realm as a whole. As Aegon finished downing his glass of wine, the attention of the council was once again drawn to him as he addressed them with renewed determination.

"Right, we need a change of strategy. But quite frankly, I'm exhausted after today's events," Aegon declared, rolling his neck until it clicked. "So, I will make my main concerns known for you all to adhere to before I retire. The finer details," he paused, placing a hand on Aemond's shoulder, eliciting a huff from the One-Eyed Prince, "will be handled by my brother."

The members of the Small Council nodded in agreement, their attention turning to Ser Tyland as he began to take notes, and to Ser Criston as he rose from his seat to roll out a map upon the wooden table. The intricate details of Westeros were displayed on a large piece of parchment, each region and territory clearly marked. With precision, Ser Arryk stepped forward, placing two different types of figures on the table: one representing the Greens, the other the Blacks. With meticulous care, he positioned them in the appropriate territories, each move calculated and strategic.

Maera watched on, her mind buzzing with thoughts and concerns. She observed the proceedings with a sense of confusion, still unsure of why she was being privy to such sensitive information. Yet, she couldn’t shake the feeling that with Aegon’s declarations, the reason for her presence would soon become clear.

Aegon's finger traced the path to Storm's End on the map, his voice commanding as he addressed the council. "Lord Borros has more men to spare to the effort but will not provide them until the marriage pact is sealed," he declared, his gaze locking onto his youngest brother, Daeron, who sat with a look of hesitation.

Turning his attention to Daeron, Aegon issued his directive with unwavering determination. "Fly down to Storm's End and pick one of his girls. I do not care which one. Wed her, bed her, put a child in her." Daeron began to protest, but Aegon cut him off with a dismissive wave of his hand. "Yes, Daeron, we are all aware of your limp cock," he said with a chuckle. "Maester, give something to my brother that can be administered when he gets there, as to not disappoint the poor Lady."

Daeron growled in frustration, pushing himself up from the table and storming out of the chamber, prompting Dowager Queen Alicent to rise from her seat and hurriedly follow after her youngest son, her expression filled with concern. Undeterred, Aegon pressed on, his gaze now fixated on the Crownlands on the map. "The Realm is divided, and our enemies are too close for comfort," he remarked, his voice laced with urgency.

With a flick of his purple gaze, Aegon directed his attention to Ser Criston Cole, the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, who stood nearby observing the map. "Lord Commander, approach the Black factions near Kings Landing and execute these treasonous Lords," he commanded, his tone uncompromising. "Surely the heirs of these Houses will see sense. If not, eradicate the entire fucking House if needs be." The gravity of Aegon's words hung heavy in the air as the councilors absorbed the weight of his directives, the fate of the realm resting precariously in their hands.

Ser Criston furrowed his brow, his gaze fixed on the map as he contemplated the potential repercussions of executing the Black factions' allies near King's Landing. "Rhaenyra's forces will come to these Houses' aid if she hears we are executing her allies that are closest to the Capital. That could spur her on to come for the Keep," he cautioned, his voice heavy with concern.

At the Lord Commander’s revelation, Maera's eyes widened in alarm, her heart pounding in her chest with a mixture of fear and uncertainty. Would Rhaenyra truly come for them in Kings Landing? The thought sent shivers down her spine, and she couldn't help but feel a creeping sense of dread at the prospect of facing the full force of the Blacks' fury.

Aegon's acknowledgment of Maera marked the first time he had directly addressed her since the council began. "Our Mayflower has ensured House Stokeworth and House Rosby by corresponding with their wives and daughters. Who knew women could sway their husbands and fathers so?" he remarked, his tone holding a hint of surprise.

Maera raised an eyebrow at the slightly backhanded compliment from the King, her thoughts racing as she processed his words. Glancing beside her, she caught Aemond's subtle smirk, a silent acknowledgment of pride in his wife's accomplishments.

Suppressing the urge to retort, Maera forced a diplomatic smile as she replied to Aegon. "You honor me, your Grace, but these are only two Houses," she began, her tone measured as she addressed the King. Standing from her seat, she stepped closer to the map, her eyes scanning the figures representing the Black factions in the Crownlands. "There are more Blacks in the Crownlands than Greens," she pointed out, her voice carrying a note of caution.

Aegon's gaze lingered on Maera for a moment, his expression unreadable as he absorbed her words. The weight of the impending decisions hung heavy in the air, each councilor acutely aware of the pivotal role they played in shaping the fate of the realm. Scratching his chin thoughtfully, the King’s eyes scanned the map before cautiously picking up a piece representing the Green forces and placing it in the vicinity of King's Landing. "Then we move the forces down from Harrenhal and divide them throughout the Crownlands. This will ensure that, should an attack come from Rhaenyra's forces to aid those treasonous Houses, we will be ready," he declared, his tone resolute.

Ser Tyland, the Master of Ships, spoke up next, his finger tracing the previous spot where the figurine once lay on the map. "My King, our forces in Harrenhal greatly deter an attack from the North and the Black factions of the Riverlands. We were lucky to secure it before Prince Daemon or Prince Jacaerys in the first place, thanks to Prince Aemond's prompt surveillance."

Maera glanced up at her husband, Aemond, who was intently studying the map, his expression a mask of concentration and determination. His presence exuded a sense of authority, and Maera couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride at the sight of her husband taking on such a crucial role in the council’s deliberations.

Ser Tyland continued, his tone filled with concern. "Harrenhal is our last line of defense before the Blacks enter the Crownlands. Should we really pull our forces from there and leave ourselves so vulnerable to attack?"

Aegon's response came swiftly, his voice confident. "Aha, my Lord, you are right. Which is precisely why I will send my brother to once again patrol Harrenhal on Vhagar and prevent the Blacks from invading from the North.”

The realization that he would be sent away struck Maera like a blow, filling her with a deep sense of unease. She couldn’t bear the thought of being separated from him, especially now, when she carried their child within her. A knot formed in Maera’s stomach as she contemplated the implications of Aemond’s absence. The uncertainty of war loomed large, and the prospect of facing it without her husband by her side filled her with a profound sense of vulnerability. She knew that Aemond’s duty to the realm would inevitably call him away, but that didn’t make the prospect any easier to accept.

Yet it was what happened next that was even more shocking, when Aemond replied to his brother’s, his King’s request with a simple and firm “No.”

Aemond's refusal elicited a stunned silence in the council chamber, the tension palpable as all eyes turned to the one-eyed Prince. Aegon's brows furrowed in disbelief, his surprise evident in his tone as he challenged Aemond's decision with a sharp "No?!”

Maera watched her husband closely, her heart pounding in her chest as she silently pleaded with him to tread carefully. With a subtle shake of her head, she urged him not to provoke the King further, knowing the volatile nature of the situation.

But Aemond remained resolute, explaining his reasoning with a calm determination. "For a few minor Houses in the Crownlands, we should not uproot our main defenses. If we face retaliation from the execution of the Black factions, then so be it. But I am not leaving King's Landing unless absolutely necessary."

Aegon's response was swift, his tone tinged with frustration. "Your King is telling you it is necessary, Aemond," he growled, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes. "I thought you would have… missed Harrenhal anyway. You have not been there in over five moons."

Aemond frowned deeply at his brother, his face like thunder as he countered, "You appoint a new Hand then immediately send him away? How can I best serve the Realm if I am away from the Keep?"

Aegon reasoned with a hint of impatience. "Plenty of Hands have headed into war, Aemond," he retorted, his gaze unwavering.

Lord Jasper Wylde interjected, his voice measured as he added his perspective to the debate. "I would agree with my son-in-law that Rhaenyra may not come to these minor Houses' defense right away," he began, addressing the King respectfully. "He has also just been given this prestigious honor of Hand of the King, Your Grace. He should know the role better before heading out to aid our forces."

The council chamber was filled with a tense silence as the gravity of the situation hung heavy in the air, each member grappling with the weight of their decisions and the implications for the realm. Aegon's mocking hum in response to Lord Jasper's interjection only added to the tension in the chamber, his gaze fixed firmly on Aemond as he addressed his younger brother once more.

"My brother and I both know why he does not wish to return to Harrenhal, especially now that he is married," Aegon remarked, his tone dripping with implication.

Aemond's warning tone hinted at underlying tension between the brothers, a dynamic that Maera couldn't quite decipher. She glanced around the room, noting the varied reactions of the council members. Ser Tyland, Maester Orwyle, and Lord Jasper appeared oblivious to the underlying conflict, their attention focused on the strategic discussion. Ser Criston's jaw tensed, his focus unwavering on the map spread out before them.

But it was Lord Larys's demeanor that caught Maera's attention. His eyes twinkled with delight as he leaned on his cane, a knowing smile playing at his lips. Maera felt a chill run down her spine at the realization that Larys was privy to whatever discord simmered between the brothers.

Before the tension could escalate further, Aegon's voice cut through the awkward silence, his tone commanding. "Now, Aemond, enough of this foolishness," he admonished, attempting to steer the conversation back on track. "I am sure, by how cunt-struck you are, that Maera is an honorable wife and that she will—"

"My wife is with child," Aemond declared firmly, , his revelation causing a collective gasp to ripple through the council chamber. Maera's heart skipped a beat as their private news was laid bare before the assembled councilmen. "I will not leave her."

Aegon's gaze shifted to Maester Orwyle, seeking confirmation of Aemond's declaration. The Maester's gentle nod affirmed the truth of Aemond's words, further solidifying the weight of their announcement. Though Maera refrained from scanning the room, she couldn't escape the weight of her father's gaze upon her. Despite his composed demeanor, she sensed a flicker of pride in his eyes. The realization dawned on her—should their child be born a male, he would be a contender for the throne, a thought that sent a shiver down her spine.

With a determined resolve, Maera addressed the council, cutting through the tension with her abrupt words. "Another weakness Rhaenyra can exploit unless we act quickly," she declared, her tone commanding attention.

Aegon's response was swift, snapping his fingers in Maera's direction with an air of approval. "Exactly, goodsister. See? She understands!" he exclaimed, turning his gaze to Aemond in expectation of agreement. But Aemond's expression remained steadfast, his decision to remain in the capital unwavering.

Exasperated, Aegon rolled his eyes before addressing the room once more. "We will wait for the outcome of the executions. Should there be any news of retaliation, Aemond, you will go without question," he declared, his tone leaving no room for argument. Aemond nodded in acceptance, resigned to the inevitability of his duty. What more could he do in the face of his brother's command?

Aegon's attention then turned to Maera, a shift in his demeanor signaling a new topic of discussion. "Well, this joyous news brings me to my final concern," he began, his words carrying a weight of responsibility. "Mayflower, my children remain shaken after those monsters murdered their brother. And I’m told that you were the only one who managed to get Jaehaera to talk."

Maera's frown deepened as she struggled to grasp the implications of Aegon's words. "Jaehaera and Maelor need a mother's care," he continued, his tone laden with expectation. "And Helaena is in no fit state to raise them as a mother should. I am giving them to you as your wards. Consider it practice for when your own child arrives.”

Notes: ok so big chapter, lots of political movements in here. Believe it or not this was double the length but like who da fuq wants to read 8k words about war strategy? I don’t. So, more details about strategy to be sprinkled in the next few chapters. Keep your eyes peeled 👀

Tags: @blue-serendipity @marvelescvpe @manipulatixe @abecerra611 @shesjustanothergeek @watercolorskyy @0eessirk8

Thank you so much for reading! Comments, feedback, likes, and reblogs are greatly appreciated 🖤

#maera wylde #aemond targaryen #aemond x oc #aemond fanfiction #chapters #hotd aemond #hotd fanfic #house targaryen #house wylde #hotd helaena

37 notes · View notes

monstergutzzzz · 1 month

Text

ㅣWelcomeㅣ

Hello and welcome to my intro, writing list, and request rules! ********************************** My name is Skyler and I’m an x reader writer!(I mainly do female reader or afab! Or gender neutral.) I’m 18 and have been writing for an about a year but still am learning how to improve! ********************************** Writing: Things I WILL write: Smut Fluff angst age gap(legal) slow burn enemies to lovers Some kinks(if I don’t reply to a kink it’s bc it’s out of my comfort zone) One shots What I will NOT write rape Non-con breeding kink pregnancy pedo Race play crude Extreme gore(slight slight slight blood is okay) death Abuse And basic no nos ********************************** Characters/ fandoms I will write for: (some may not be listed on here so feel free to request any one I just might not write it) Helluva boss: all adult characters Naruto: Kakashi,Gaara,Orochimaru, Sasuke(villain arc only),Jiraiya, Sai,Yamato, and Itachi. Sally face: Sally or Larry only Star Wars: Kylo Ren/ Ben solo Baulders Gate 3: Astarion MHA: Bakugo,Aizawa,Dabi,Hawks, and Shigaraki. Stray kids: all members Brooklyn 99: Jake Peralta only Umbrella Academy:Klaus and Diego Twilight: Jasper or Edward CreepyPasta: Jeff ********************************** There are more fandonms I write for but just can’t think of! Thank you for reading please send requests I’ll get to them asap!

#request rules #aesthetic #x reader #tumblr fyp #new writers on tumblr #helluva boss #naruto x reader #sally face #kylo ren x reader #astarion x tav #baulders gate 3 #my hero academia #stray kids #stray kids smut #brooklyn 99 #the umbrella academy #twilight #creepypasta #please boost

9 notes · View notes

flowerslut · 1 month

Note

i don’t think this is having the effect you wanted because i have never in my life been more curious about a fic than i have for call of the night

i’m laughing so hard. I feel like a parent who is about to talk to their teen about weed or alcohol like "I know I can't stop you from going out and looking for it. but I want you to do it responsibly."

alright. listen. it’s not a bad fic by any means—if I say "it's bad" my wife is gonna materialize and rip me a new asshole—it’s very fun and it’s long as fuck and I got real intricate with the politics and worldbuilding. its an AU that I built from the ground up with some kung fu panda influence if you really squint that has turned into a multi-story series which I’ve had an absolute blast working on. but here’s the thing: I started writing it when I was 16/17. in fact, I wrote the first 50k words of it during the first half of my senior year of high school (hand-written bc this was 2009) so when I found my old fanfic binder in 2017, and when I started rewriting it later that year, I finished it, but I didn’t rewrite that much of it. which is the problem. because the amount of crappy characterization, unnecessary info-dumping (so much telling, not showing), and weird narrative choices is so overwhelming in the first few chapters that it's been unbearable for me to look back on. I recently tried to reread it and was horror-stricken when I realized that I couldn’t do it bro 💀

again: it is not bad. it’s a very cool premise and a super fun and adventurous au. it's a very slow burn. it just has an insanely rough (poorly written imo) start. and since its my most popular twilight fic, and that's what people usually read first, i'm now in hell knowing how many people nope-out after the first few chapters (myself, included recently) thinking "damn. that was rough. next." the writing quality of the middle and end compared to the beginning is leagues better, but its just that first chunk that has me in hell.

but yada yada yeah I can't stop you so, tldr; in call of the night, humans and vampires coexist. the cullens are pseudo-politicians/public figures who help keep the peace. alice has lived her entire life in relative isolation because of her first, terrifying vision: that a man named jasper is going to murder her. so, boy is she in for a treat when she realizes her new coworker who skulks around the library is that Very Dude. and thats where the shit-show really begins. I have a tag ("cotn") with hundreds of posts surrounding the series, but I don't recommend looking at it unless you want to be spoiled for it and its sequel. but if you're going to do it, i'd rather you do it in the house (here you go 😔)

#cotn #listen i know plenty of you follow me bc of cotn and you love and adore it AND I DO TOO OKAY I DO #but now that i've written roots. i look at cotn (and even parts of witd tbh) and im like #'damn. i could do so much better.' AND I WILL 🔪#gonna rework cotn a bit #edit witd too. and THEN you guys will get this novella and I can start chipping away at the third and final Big Story

6 notes · View notes

futuremrsdrcullen · 2 years

Note

Heyyyy. I have some requests if you don't mind!!

you get into an accident and Carlisle finds you. You wake up to Carlisle working over you. Carlisle gives you the option to be treated at his house. He gives you the option to be changed. You are super nervous and he is super sweet and gentle and walks you through everything.

You are a friend of the Cullen's (especially Alice). You go to their house to hang out and you start having a panic attack but try to hide it. Carlisle and Jasper find you and help you through it!

First, let me say that I am so, so, SO sorry this took actually forever to write. This was the first time I was writing of my I'm Always in this Twilight comfort blanket and oh boy did I feel lost at first.

I'm not kidding when I say I wrote this 3 times, with three different settings lol

But I finally settled with something I'm content with and here it is!!! I decided to only write the first one, BUT stay tuned because I do have something like the second one planned for my version of Eclipse <3

Anyway! Enough from me! Thank you so so much for sending in such creative requests.

Thank you for reading and Enjoying my work <3

Much love

~Claire <3

Masterlist

Blurb title: Burning

word count: 1457

So many WARNINGS: Car accidents, blood, dying, pain, burning (but not actual fire just the feeling of burning) prolonged pain, wishing to die, sad.

I Promise it does have a happy ending <3 being turned into a vampire is not an easy process. Carlisle is the sweetest softest boy around.

THIS IS NOT CANON TO IAITT and will not be added to that masterlist. It's also why I didn't tag the normal taglist. Thanks again <3

Everything felt like slow motion. I took a turn too fast. I hit a patch of ice. I lost control. I don’t think I even heard the glass breaking. I couldn’t even tell what song was on the radio.

But I knew I was dying.

I knew my car was resting on the driver's side door somewhere off the road. I didn’t think the passing cars would even know I was down there. I squeezed my eyes closed and hoped I would just fall asleep.

I don’t know how long I stayed there, but I could feel the cool air surrounding me.I heard his voice before I saw him, I thought I imagined it.

“Y/n?” He sounded frantic, I didn’t open my eyes. “Y/n, please, sweetheart can you hear me.”

I still didn’t open my eyes but I tried to nod my head. I didn’t think I could will my voice to work.

“Dove, I’m going to pull you out of the car, okay? Tell me if anything hurts too much.” I nodded again. I didn’t really feel anything but cold. Then I was out of the car and in his arms. Only then did I allow myself to open my eyes. There was so much pain in his features.

He knew I was dying too.

He spoke softly “I- I can take you to the hospital…” I’d never heard him stutter, it broke my heart. I shook my head, not knowing if I would even make it there. “I can take you home.”

I gave him a look, he knew what I meant without it needing to be said. I was running out of time. “Carlisle…” His face twisted in pain. “Change me…”

“Y/n. You can’t make that choice right now.”

I tried to pull myself together enough to sound confident. “It’s what I would have chosen anyway. I want this.” I took one more steady breath. “I’m not ready to say goodbye to you yet…” It was barely above a whisper.

I think he wanted to cry. He hid his face in my hair and just breathed me in. “I need you to be sure.”

I nodded. I am sure. I wanted to tell him but the words wouldn’t come out. My heart beat felt like a timer. He looked into my eyes, he cupped my cheek, he kissed my forehead. I don’t think I felt any of it.

His voice was still shaky, but he sounded far away. “Okay- Okay. I’m gonna bite you here and-and then I’ll take you home, alright love?” I think I nodded. “Stay with me just a bit longer.” I felt his lips on mine. I held on to the feeling with everything I had left. I felt him whisper “I love you, Y/n”

As I closed my eyes, I felt his lips on my neck; The action alone made my heart quicken, I hoped that was a good thing. Then a sharp, shooting pain. Then nothing.

I could feel time passing, but I couldn’t judge how much. I was out for some time, enough time to get home, but eventually the pain woke me up. I screamed and thrashed and prayed- for the first time in a very long time- that the burning would stop. How much more of me was left to burn? How was I anything more than ash?

“I’m so sorry, Y/n” His voice was broken. It pulled me to the surface, if only for a moment.

Carlisle, Carlisle, Carlisle.

I could hear him pacing. I tried to cling to the sound. Tried to use it as something to ground me. I could hear him. I wasn’t dead, though I very much wanted to be. I wanted to hold my hand out to him; I must have held it out to him. I felt his cool fingers intertwined with mine. I tried to squeeze him. He squeezed my hand.

It could have been seconds, hours, days, later, but again his voice pulled me to the surface. The pain didn’t feel as deep. I didn’t regret asking him to turn me, I just wanted it to be over.

“It won’t be long now, Cara” I think I nodded, though with all the screaming and thrashing I doubt anyone noticed.

I didn’t let go of his hand.

More time passed- Probably.

I let him let go of my hand but I still felt him in the room. Eventually I could smell him in the room- Eventually I could hear him once I was able to stop screaming.

He was caught somewhere between doctor mode and husband mode. He gave me soft encouragement. He promised it wouldn’t be too much longer. I really wanted to believe him. I honestly think his presence was the only thing keeping me sane.

I heard paper shuffling, I counted how many pages turned. I wondered if he was reading, or working, or taking notes on my transformation. I counted 388 page turns. He set whatever it was down 28 times, usually followed by a sigh, usually followed by a soft touch I hardly felt. His hands got warmer. Or, I guess my skin got colder.

If my heartbeat felt like a timer before; Now it felt like an alarm.

All of the pain slowly moved from the tips of my fingers and toes. It still traveled through my veins but I could feel it leaving. As it moved, the limbs felt normal- no pain, no heat. I almost wanted to try breathing again. I didn’t.

Unfortunately, all of the burning moved closer and closer to my heart. Each inch it moved in my veins sent my heart wild.

Then my chest was the only thing burning. And my heart beat as fast as butterfly wings but in heavy stomps.

This is it… I thought. It has to be.

I cried out once more…

Then it was over. Everything was so still. I didn’t move, so afraid the if I even wiggled a finger I would burn again.

Breaking the silence, Carlisle’s voice called to me. I didn’t think about it, I just wanted to find him. I opened my eyes and was stunned by the light. More than that, I was so overwhelmed by absolutely everything in the room. I sat up faster than I would have ever been able to.

Then Carlisle’s arms were around me, like he was there to steady me; I had never felt more steady in my life.

“Careful, Dove. You’re alright.” This time I was stunned by his voice. It was clear and smooth and intoxicating. It always has been, but this felt like the first time I had ever heard it clearly.

I wanted to speak, but I had no air to carry my voice. I would have to breathe to speak and somehow that was terrifying. I didn’t know how anything could be scary after everything I had just felt.

Instead I studied his features. His eyes were so bright and golden. He placed a soft hand on my cheek, and when I didn’t feel the chill of his skin, I took a sharp breath. Breathing wasn’t as scary as I expected, though it did hurt.

I remember from Bella’s transformation that newborns woke up thirsty and though it had been explained to me, I never could have really imagined what that would feel like. I had never experienced thirst like this. Everything was so dry and hot. I was almost convinced I’d swallowed a lit match. The air that filled my throat fed the flames. I wanted to scream again.

Instead I looked at him, my eyes catching his again. I let the pain pass for another moment.

“Carlisle…” I knew I whispered, I wanted to whisper it, but it felt so loud. I didn’t recognize my own voice. His smile widened. I wanted to kiss him.

“Y/n…”

“This is all real?” I knew it was. I had to ask anyway.

He laughed softly. “It’s very real.” I nodded though I wasn’t sure I believed him. I didn't really know how to believe him. Everything happened so quickly.

Only then did I notice the others giggling too.

Almost all of them were there. Alice and Jasper, Rose and Emmett, Edward and Bella, they all watched me in complete wonder.

And Carlisle.

Carlisle, Carlisle, Carlisle.

He was real and he was here and we could live happily ever after. It probably wouldn’t be as graceful as Bella’s transformation, but with all of them by my side, I could do this. Everything would be alright. The pain was over, but my life was new.

What I thought would be the end, was actually my first steps into forever.

taglist: @a-not-so-poetic-poet @jakanddexter67 @bridge597 @gaymazinglula @arg888cam

#twilight #twilight fanfiction #carlisle cullen #not iaitt #carlisle cullen x reader #twilight fanfic #car crash #car accident #near death experience #dark #happy end #not I'm Always in This Twilight

132 notes · View notes

besosdepalma · 2 years

Photo

Okay, So I was entirely inspired by the BRILLIANCE of Jamie Campbell Bower’s characters and I felt like there is not alot of attention given to Caius. Although he is in the background for alot of the movies, Jamie plays him with a sadistic stoicism that I find very compelling and draws me in. S/N: I am not the biggest Twilight fan but I do enjoy reading the books every once in awhile and the movies. I wrote the below fanfiction after 10 YEARS of not writing anything - due to school and work- all because JCB has that much of a chokehold on me. I have incorporated elements of both the movies and the books into the overall narrative of the story. Let me know your thoughts below and I will expand further on AO3. Warnings:

Sex

Oral Sex

Rough Sex

Slow Burn

Enemies to Lovers

Vampires

Werewolves

Forbidden Love

_______

Step into a world in a post Breaking-Dawn universe when the Volturi return back to Volterra and the chaos that ensues from the choice made to not attack the Cullens.

Ever wonder what happened in the battle between the near fatal werewolf attack that sparked Caius's bloodlust and revenge against all werewolves? The secrets of the past come head to head when Caius interacts with Luz Cordero - an archaeological intern visiting Volterra for a school program who has direct links to his past and possibly his future.

Stick around - twists, turns, and lots of smut WITH plot abound!

_____

Chapter 1: Only the Dead Have Seen the End of War.

There was a slight chill in the air as the first wave of descending boots upon cobblestone echoed throughout the center square of Volterra. A rustling of heavy-lined cloaks joined the rising crescendo of scattered footsteps - all marching towards the high-walled castle just past the center fountain.

The Volturri and their Guard had returned home. The countless men and women did not speak a word to each other as one by one, they entered their stronghold - only the highest members given the distinct privilege of using the front doors. Everyone else filtered to the sides and towards the back - everyone had a place and everything was done with fastidious pride in that place and order.

The tidiness of their arrival and subsequent homecoming did nothing to betray their obvious thoughts: What exactly had just happened? They had followed Aro’s command. Listened when he said the Cullens were gathering forces to strike against them, against their own kind - that Irina had shared a most disgusting yet compelling story of an immortal child created, nurtured, and hidden by the Cullen coven. They had to be stopped - immediately.

Except- they weren’t. At the very last moment, Aro had decreed that there would be no fighting on the field today. The evidence that Alice and Jasper Cullen brought forth at the eleventh hour had seen to that - an immortal child was never created, but rather a new breed entirely was born and carried by a newborn prior to her vampiric conversion. It was insanity to say the least - nonetheless true. Everyone on that field that day had seen it with their own eyes and Aro himself commanded the end of the battle before it even began.

Something Caius could not believe for a moment. As they fled back to Volterra, Caius had tried on several occasions to wrestle the truth out of Aro’s sudden change of heart - yet nothing. He was met with an indifferent silence in some occasions or in others, pure disdain for his questions and direct dismissal.

Caius finally reached the last step of the entryway to his home - this fortress of ancient stone and mortar. If one looked closely, you could see remnants of generations of old blood bespeckled into the very foundation of every wall - you could smell it the moment you entered any room. It was a delicious reminder of memories filled with terrified screams, flesh tearing away from bone, and watching life flicker away from eyes once filled with life-long dreams. In his most bored moments, this was Caius’s favorite past time: remembering each kill and knowing that he was the reason each one would never laugh, smile, or hope again. It always made him feel better.

But not this night. Caius was certain no amount of ruminations will help him understand the decision made back in Forks, Washington that stripped him of satisfying his own bloodlust. Not to mention the fact that the trip gave him yet another opportunity to further destroy and add werewolf heads to his growing collection (he had quite the trophy room locked away in one of his many cellars only accessible within the castle by a select few). He had expected more from the travels - from the efforts put forth to ensure that they had every chess piece necessary in their favor to win. The entire affair was foolish - it made THEM the Volturri look foolish.

Which meant he looked foolish as well.

Caius sneered as his thoughts brought him down this path. He realized that he was standing quite still on the stairway landing, his wife Athenadora and Aro’s wife, Sulpicia, standing close together, side by side in front of him. Aro and Marcus were in front of them and entered the front doors unceremoniously without pausing to turn around. They entered and presumably went straight to their corridors.

Sulpicia followed but Athenodora stopped once she reached inside - Caius had not moved from his spot. Athenodora turned around, her expression stoic and void of emotion as she spoke to him. “Caius, we are finally home. Do you not wish to eat something?”. By something, she meant one of the many fresh humans they had at their disposal - either willingly offering themselves to their dining pleasure or, if one was in the mood for a little bit of fun, a selection of humans of all ages and backgrounds trapped in one of their many dungeons. Blood always tasted better with an infusion of fear, Caius liked to say.

But not tonight. Not for him.

Caius ignored his well-intentioned wife and noticed that the moon was full. This did not make his mood any better. Every full moon brought upon memories of his near fatal attack with a werewolf a century ago…an attack that sparked so many things, and yet…a moment in his life that if he could erase, he would do so without hesitation for reasons he never dared share with anyone. Not even Athenodora - and especially Aro. A twinge of gratefulness crept through his body as he remembered that Aro barely ever used his gifts on Marcus or himself.

Good. The more distance from that moment in his eternal life, the better.

“Go on ahead. Eat something…young for me. I will dine later”. Caius feigned a small smile and smirked at Athenodora when she furrowed her brows at him, “I want to spend some time alone”, he added with finality,

Athenodora needed to hear nothing further. She left, with the large wooden entrance doors closing behind her. Caius dropped his fake smile immediately, turned on his heel, and strode with resolute purpose around the left side of the fortified castle home. His eyes were steeled with determination, however, he occasionally would glance up at the full moon above him and feel the waves of anger permeate across his face.

His steps grew faster until he reached a grassy hill that lead to a drop off towards the back of the castle. It was here where Caius dipped his gloved hand into one of the deep pockets of his black cloak and withdrew a very long sliver key that looked as ancient as the fortress itself. He sidestepped next to the old, moss-ridden stone - with each step, he descended with the castle and with each step, there appeared to be no insight into anything that resembled a door for the key to fit into.

Suddenly, Caius stopped in front of a very bare looking patch of stone wall - it resembled every other area of slightly cracked sediment with caked on dirt and areas of plant overgrowth climbing up its walls. However, for Caius, this was exactly what he was looking for. He placed his right hand on an undiscerning stone and pushed. It gave in completely without further necessary force and a small click could be heard once done locking into its new place. The stone right below jutted out in the complete opposite direction, unveiling a very small keyhole on the right hand side. It was so tiny that you had to know exactly where it was in order to locate it - especially in darkness.

Caius smiled his half crooked sneer and inserted the key and turned all the way right and then pushed the key upward and inward before taking it out completely. The mechanical puzzle of simply using the keyhole in the exact order of operations needed was perfect for a small line to start appearing at the top and sides of the stone wall that was about 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide - the perfect size for someone to push through it and enter.

Which was exactly what Caius did. As he pushed his way in, he made sure to look to his right and left before doing so. No one. He locked into his sharp hearing skills and heard - nothing. All was as it should be - everyone dining and fretting around himself. He knew Aro and Marcus were already wondering where he was. He walked completely inside and closed the door behind him. The moon was full - he always felt the need to come here when the moon was full. And after the most recent events - he couldn’t help but feel an even stronger urge to come.

He would have to make this time very quick indeed.

*****************

“Please ensure to keep your seatbelts fastened and your tray tables in an upright position. We are beginning our descent into Volterra, Florence. Welcome to Italy.

“Assicurati di mantenere le cinture di sicurezza allacciate e i tavolini in posizione verticale. Stiamo iniziando la nostra discesa a Volterra, Firenze. Benvenuto in Italia.”

Luz Cordero shifted in her seat as the voice of the flight attendant rang through the airplane. It wasn’t that it was an unpleasant sound - just startling. Luz rubbed her eyes, willing to shift the vivid images of her dream - or rather, nightmare- away from her mind. A few times a month, ever since she was a little girl, she would have the same kinds of dreams - of snarling beasts with different colored hair, or was it fur? Of men and women with teeth so sharp they could pierce through metal chasing her. Of houses - no, old-style villages- burning, with the smell of cooked flesh mingling with the oaken ash of wood creating dancing plumes of smoke in the air.

But mainly there was a woman. A woman she felt like she knew but didn’t. And a man - a very young looking man with shoulder length, crisp, soft yellow hair and eyes as red as rubies. In these dreams, he would always be with the woman - standing behind her, caressing her light olive brown skin - so similar to Luz’s in real life - and whispering things in her ear with a sneer on his face. Her cheeks would blush at his words and her eyes would close - until she would snap them wide open as if sensing Luz was there. As if knowing Luz was watching their interactions. The woman opened her mouth and screamed “CORRE!” Run!

This was the last thing Luz remembered before being abruptly awakened by the news. She was just about finished rubbing the last remnants of sleep from her eyes when a poke to her right elbow made her turn around.

“Thought you might have wanted to see the pretty lights of the city as we descended.” Manny St. John was many things, but subtle was not one of them. Ever since their first day together as interns with the International Archaeological Federation, Manny had made it very clear to Luz of his interest in her.

On the very second day of them knowing each other, as well as residing in the co-ed single studio apartments that adjoined the federation’s privately owned offices outside of the Universidad Europea - Real Madrid where they were enrolled in their graduate program, he had asked her for dinner and drinks, followed by a “stroll” down the plazita since, as he put it, this was her first time ever in Spain.

It was true - Luz was in Spain, pursuing her childhood dream of excavating, cave spelunking, and digging into the history of the world’s past. Ever since she was a little girl, Luz wanted to be an explorer. She never understood why but she was the kind of girl that used to ask her parents to hide her toys in their park sandbox whenever they would visit one of the Chicago Park Districts in the summertime just for her to excavate it with her toy shovel and pale blue bucket. She would sift through the sand at the beach in hopes to discover new mineral products and have them displayed at the Museum of Science and Industry. Her ultimate dream was to discover something so old, ancient, and historically relevant that would help solve some of the world’s worst illnesses - some old texts with instructions or fossilized plants that could be studied and brought back to germification. (Her major may be anthropology but her double minors in archaeology and botany played quite nicely with one another in pursuit of these goals).

It was because of her ambition and future that Luz politely declined. She just could not have anyone get in the way of her 4.0 GPA and her chance of finally being in Volterra to actually put in some real work - besides, she had another reason why she wanted to come on this specific dig. When the university had partnered with the Federation to provide this hands-on internship program, she was the first one to sign up. Persuading her father to allow her to go even further into Europe and being even more thousands of miles from Chicago, did not sit well with him. However, all she had to do was state that her mother would have wanted her to visit. Diego Cordero sighed one of his infamous deep and heavy signs and gave his blessing (and credit card number for program sign-up) over the phone.

“Hey, I take that as a no? No lights?”Manny snapped her back out of her reverie. She blinked several times and then smiled slightly at him. “Of course! Sorry.. I was still just waking up. Thanks for offering”, Luz responded. He smiled at her and leaned back as she very carefully and very slightly leaned over him from her middle seat to stare out of the airplane window.

Volterra. Florence. Italy. It was pitch black save for the glistening moonlight sparkling in the pools of water that were scattered in different pockets below. Here and there, the night lamps of the ancient city overpowered the moon in its glory as the plane got lower and lower and closer to the city proper where the airport was housed. The swirling ambers and golds against old stone and wood houses, streets, and buildings beautifully illuminated the rich, green ivy plants that seemed to be intimately woven into the fabric of almost every single establishment.

The city looked like it could be alive, the vines twisting and turning up walls and terraces aided by the sweltering sun of the afternoons and the ice cold showers of the mornings that was part of the normal weather patterns of this region of the country. Even at night, it was beautiful but with an air of hostile mystery that could even be felt thousands of feet into the air and separated by metal.

“Never been, huh?”

Luz stopped politely leaning over Manny and turned to address the other side of her and rolled her eyes while smiling. Her best friend Vivian Xi yawned widely back at her. Vivian and Luz had been as thick as thieves since they sat next to each other 5 years ago on their first day as freshman in ANTH 101 - General Anthropology. Dr. Forrester used to drone on and on for the straight hour and a half while Vivian and Luz would giggle whenever little dribbles of spit would drop ever so delicately from his chin to his maroon sweater. He always wore a maroon sweater - to the point that the class always speculated on the exact number of maroon sweaters a man can own.

If it wasn’t for Dr. Forrester’s forceful spittle one day landing like a torpedo on Vivian’s notes (she audibly shrieked which made Dr. Forrester feel very confused as he refused to acknowledge his role in the moisture now very apparent on her notebook) and Luz giving her a spare notebook plus her own notes for her to copy from, they probably would never have discovered their mutual interest in both anthropology and archaeology (however Vivian’s double minor was coupled with chemistry as well), they would not have found the exciting opportunity within this program that led them to where they were now.

As Vivian had stated when they had started filling out their applications, “I think it’s time to infuse some more estrogen into this field, don’t you?”

Luz smiled at her best friend. “You know I have never been here. Stop playing”. Luz snapped the packet of complimentary pretzels from Vivian’s hand, reached in - and nothing. The bag was empty. Vivian laughed as Luz rolled her eyes.

“Hey! You were sleeping and the cart went by for one last time. I didn’t want to wake you.” Vivian laughed heartily as Luz started smiling again. “Perish the thought of you not being able to get an extra bag of pretzels - oh what luck you seem to have, Viv”.

Both girls laughed but were interrupted suddenly by Manny’s not-so-hidden stares and slurry of questions. “Have YOU ever been to Volterra, Viv? You seem pretty whatever about it”. His voice was curious and not disrespectful in the slightest.

“No, I have never been either - but Luz has a much more vested interest to be here than I do beyond just the program. She has ties to the place.”, said Vivian with an air of intentional mystery to the last words of her sentence. She giggled as well.

Vivian rolled her eyes as Manny stared blankly - he clearly was not only confused by the statement but also by the lack of no one offering up a further explanation. Guess he was the kind of guy things just came so easily to him, judged Luz. She signed and then slowly unbuttoned the top half of her jacket, revealing a very old, slim bronze necklace with a hanging metal piece at the end of it. The pendant was made of the same material as the antiquated chain but had a crack down the middle that made the pendant look like it was missing another half - in fact, it was cut so roughly down the middle that the part of the words were completely missing - on the left-hand side the letters “Vocatus” were plainly etched into the metal but whatever the beginning half of the statement was, was lost to time. On the back side there was a raised notch that had no apparent reasoning for being there as well.

“My mother’s family is originally from Spain. My father is mixed with lots of things and is from the States. Legend has it that this pendant was passed down my mother’s side - and that my family has a history in Volterra. But I have no idea what - all of that was lost to time and immigration, I guess”.

She held up the pendant to the light. Vivian stared at it as if she had seen it a thousand times before but Manny seemed thoroughly invested in understanding more.

“It says something…Vocatus….that’s Latin”, he shared.

Luz responded, “I know. It just means something like called, or invoked…something like that. My Latin proficiency rests solely on my Spanish fluency”. She smiled and Manny smiled back. Despite her better judgment, she felt her cheeks flush and held his gaze as she played with the pendant with her left hand.

Manny kept smiling while speaking to her. “ So, I am guessing you came on this trip not just for some hands-on experience but rather to do some family history digging of your own, I take it?”

Luz’s smile faded and she looked past Manny and out the airplane window as she spoke. They were descending rapidly now…they would be landing any minute.

“My mother died in Volterra a few months after I was born.” Luz snapped her eyes back to Manny as she spoke and could feel Vivian’s own eyes burning holes into the back of her neck - she of course already knew this and more but Luz knew Vivian well enough to know that she would not be sharing any of Luz’s business with Manny. She was probably surprised she shared as much as she had. So was Luz - but the fact that she was here, she was in this ancient city of mysteries, of riddles lost to time…the final resting place of her mother. A death that, 25 years later, she still did not have answers to - and the minimal answers her father did share with her were just not enough.

Manny whispered an apology and started speaking in hushed tones about grief and not knowing how she felt. Luz tuned him out and kept staring out of the window. The flight attendant had shared they were making their final descent into the airport and as the lights dimmed in the cabin and the wheels hit the tarmac, a weird feeling began to surface at the pit of her stomach - almost like a shadow passed through her. She closed her eyes and saw the tall, skinny, pale, blonde, red-eyed man again from her most recent dream in her mind’s eye- but this time he was not whispering into a woman’s ear…. He was just standing there and staring directly at Luz.

Her eyes snapped open.

******

Caius had made it a habit to ensure to have many different hiding places - both inside and outside of the castle walls. He took advantage of the fact that Aro barely ever used his gifts on his own brothers, Marcus and Caius respectively, and that through the power of Corin’s magical gift of keeping everyone content all of the time (for some reason, her gifts on him had been fading steadily but he kept that knowledge private to himself for the past 25 years), he was able to visit them whenever he wanted. Each place held different artifacts from lifetimes ago… books, documents, even ancient artifacts that humans were still out there looking for.

This particular hidden cellar room was lined with small idols of different time periods and religions, some made of gold, others of silver and iron. Shelves from floor to ceiling with books and bits of parchment encased in glass that were so brittle, that one touch would dissolve them. Caius was an avid reader indeed and a collector of all things beautiful and unique - in a way, he was much like Aro but he preferred physical objects rather to people.

People he just liked disposing of. What use could they possibly have beyond the very delectable liquid pumping through their veins next to the written words of the supernatural and immortal? For that is what he prized above all else - works written by beings like himself and others.

However, today he would not be perusing another invaluable tome. He walked over to the farthest corner of the dank room and pulled out a wooden chest that was hidden behind the bust of what appeared to be Medusa and her head of snakes. Unlike many of the objects in the room, the chest was in perfect condition with not a hint of dust on it - a very clear sign that the box was handled much more frequently than its roommates in the cellar.

Caius gleamed down at the chest and took out the same key in which he had used to open up the secret stone door to get into the room in the first place. This time, it worked like a regular key by inserting it in the plain lock in the front of the box - it opened and as Caius peered down at its contents, his face flickered ever so quickly between many emotions at once before settling on complete stoicism.

He brushed his pale yet beautifully long fingertips over a bronze chain necklace that was clearly older than one would expect something to be housed in a red velvet cushioned box to be. He slowly worked his fingers down to the bottom of the necklace, to the hanging pendant at its end. The pendant was made of the same material as the bronze chain and had a crack down the middle that clearly showed the pendant was broken- and missing its other half. The middle was crudely cut down the right-hand side, with the letters “Sanguis” plainly visible. A notch jutting out from the back, with no clear purpose to its intent rested on the lower end of the pendant.

Caius stroked the words over and over and whispered, “Sanguis” a few times before placing the pendant back into the box.

“The Del Sol line will never return to Volterra, let alone this earth, Amada….do you understand me?” Silence. He spoke directly to the pendent.

“DO YOU HEAR ME?” He screamed and dust particles fell from the ceiling.

No response.

Caius in a swift move grabbed the wooden box, removed the key and put it back in its hiding place before leaving the cellar completely - as if it never existed and no one was there in the first place. The cold air wafting in through the tracks and sanitizing the air of the real frost that was just behind in the hidden room’s wake, waiting for his return once again the next full moon.

For no full moon could ever keep Caius away.

*******

#twilight #caius #caius volturi #caius x oc #jaime campbell bower #jaime bower

46 notes · View notes

bless-my-demons · 10 months

Text

Redamancy: Chapter Eight

Series Summary: What happens when your soulmate is a vampire that struggles to maintain a diet of trying not to kill you? Common sense says run for the hills, nothing is worth your life - but my heart is whispering why not, what’s there to lose?

Warnings: None except for like one cuss word

Notes: Hot off the press - I just spent my day packing my house up to move tomorrow and I’m up past midnight to get this out... You guys have been so freaking supportive and I’m excited for this story to pick up!

Word Count: 3158

Series Masterlist

• March 11th, 2005 • Forks High School •

Reader

“Emotions.” Jasper says by way of greeting, placing his backpack on the picnic table that no doubtibly contains his art supplies.

“Everyone has them, yes?” I reply, my forehead wrinkling in confusion at his peculiar single-word statement.

“I can control them.” He answers, visibly nervous as if he were afraid he just opened a can of worms.

I watch him pull out his well-worn sketchbook and pencils as I decide how to respond to this new bit of information.

“Say something, doll.” Jasper looks almost pleading, worry setting in on his face.

“How does it work?” I question him, I’m in shock that he volunteered such important information in the middle of a school day at lunch as if it were a typical topic to talk about.

“Well, it started off as just being able to sense the emotions of humans and vampires in my vicinity,” he lets out a sigh as he begins shading whatever it is he’s working on. “Then I quickly figured out I can influence them. I can either enhance what someone is already feeling, take away their emotions altogether, or replace them entirely and give them something completely different.”

“W-wow,” I stutter, “that’s honestly impressive.” I raise my eyebrows as his eyes meet mine.

“I can also do small things since I’ve had time to hone my power, like it’s easy to find people I’m familiar with in a crowded area, within a reasonable distance. As long as I can get to know the person, orient myself with their emotions, it’s quite easy.” He glances down at his drawing as he finishes his explanation.

“That has to be rough, feeling everything everyone else is feeling all the time. You can turn it off though, right?” I muse out loud, I can’t imagine having a power that doesn’t come with an ‘off’ switch.

“Unfortunately I can’t, my family is usually pretty good at regulating the intensity of their emotions when we’re gathered at home. At school though… Sitting out here alone with you during lunch is a welcome reprieve.” Jasper turns back to his sketch as he admits that last tidbit of information.

“Do any of your other siblings have super powers like you?” I tease him, not ready to dive into that nugget of information about how spending time with me makes him feel.

“Rosalie and Emmett don’t, neither do Carlisle and Esme. Unless you want to count the staggeringly strong self-control my adoptive father possesses.” Jasper pauses, “Alice can see the future, subjectively though - she has to be searching for that person’s intent and as long as they make a decision, she can see it and the immediate effects. Edward on the other hand, can-“ but he’s interrupted by the bell signaling the end of the lunch period.

“You’re not off the hook now that you’ve enlightened me, I expect to finish this conversation.” I tell him as I stand and meet him on the sidewalk leading towards the school building.

“I would never leave business unfinished with a lady.” He says rather cheekily, trying to get a rise from me, but all it earns him is a huff of a laugh as we walk in a comfortable silence.

“Thank you for sharing that information with me, I promise not to tell anyone.” I vow soberly, meeting his eyes as we stand outside of my next class.

“I was never worried.” Jasper replies, backing away as students finish milling about in the hallway. “See you in History, darlin’.”

I could feel his eyes on me as I stood in front of my open locker, quickly shuffling through the books I needed for my last class of the day. It’s almost like his gaze seemed to burn me alive as I felt it travel across my skin, the hair on the back of my neck rose due to my heightened state of awareness I had towards this gorgeous man. Does he know the effect he has? Is he even aware that I am utterly at his mercy? I hate to fall in line with all the other girls that must throw themselves at his feet, most of them much prettier than I, so why me? Why does he want to take me on a date?

I glance over my shoulder in the direction I know his own locker is in and sure enough, liquid gold is locked onto its target. A steady unwavering gaze stares back, so solid and intense that it constricts my chest for a moment with the pure force of it.

I turn back to my locker and grab a pen before slamming the door shut, the warning bell signaling one minute before everyone still occupying the hallway is tardy. As I turn to hurry my way to History, Jasper has made his way to stand right behind me.

“Do you like baseball?” He blurts out quickly, as if to not lose his nerve.

“It’s probably the only sport I understand, so yeah. Why?” I counter, tilting my head in question.

“My family and I were thinking of playing a game Sunday. Would you like to tag along and spectate? Bella Swan will be there, I’m sure she would love your company.” Jasper tacked on the last part as if I needed more reason to go than just spending time with him.

“As if I could say no to you and your family.” I tell him with a smile.

“Good, so you’ll want to meet them tomorrow?” He asks with more confidence than the last request, slowly taking steps backwards down the empty hall and I gravitate with him.

My mind blanks, not prepared to be sprung with such a big step in… whatever is happening between us. First he tells me he wants to take me out on a date, now I’m meeting his family? Is this some lucky alternate universe where the insanely attractive boy falls for the incredibly average girl?

No-no way, friends bring their friends over to meet their entire family before a family outing, right?

“I-I-uh-“

“Noon tomorrow, they’ll love you.” Disappearing around the corner of the hallway with a smirk in place, probably because I was gaping at him in the middle of an empty hall.

I glance around - an empty hallway! I’m late for class! I can’t even be mad, Jasper Hale has effectively monopolized my weekend and I’m more than happy about it.

• March 11th, 2005 • Home •

Reader

“Hey, mom?” I ask, poking my head in her open bedroom door.

“Yes, sweetheart?” Putting down the book she was reading and pushing up her reading glasses, my mother sits up in bed to give me her full attention.

“So,” I take a seat at the end of her bed, “Jasper Hale invited me to his house tomorrow, to have dinner with his family and just hang out I guess.”

“Oh?” My mother sounds intrigued, eyebrows raising. “A date with a cute boy?”

“Not a date!” I immediately correct her, “it’s just dinner, or whatever.”

She laughs as I pick at her bedspread. “Honey, of course you can go, if that’s what you’re asking.”

“Well…”

“Well, what?” She questions.

“He also asked if I wanted to play baseball Sunday with his fa-“

“You? Play baseball?” She blurts out, incredulously.

“Mom!” I draw out the word. “He’s invited me to hang out with his family this weekend - you’ll be cool, right? When he picks me up? No interrogating?”

“Me? Interrogate the cute boy stealing my daughter for a weekend? I wouldn’t dream of embarrassing you.” She teases me with a wink.

I stand and begin to leave, “You are insufferable, woman.”

“I love you, sweetheart!” She yells after me as I round the corner to my room. Flopping onto my bed with a smile, I’m both giddy and equally nervous for the next two days.

• March 12th, 2005 • Cullen Residence •

Reader

“This is my adoptive father Carlisle and his wife Esme.” Gesturing to the two beautiful adults patiently waiting in the foyer as we walk in their home.

Thankfully my mom was at work when Jasper picked me up, giving me another day to prepare myself for the potential train wreck of them meeting tomorrow.

“Nice to meet you, Mr. and Mrs. Cullen.” I give them a smile as I shake their hands.

“Trust me dear, the pleasure is all ours!” Esme responds excitedly, her smile wide and beaming.

“The others are in the living room, beware of what you’re throwing her into.” Carlisle warns Jasper with a smile.

Throwing me into? I glance up at Jasper with my brows furrowed, a little concerned.

“C’mon, I’ll protect you.” He jokes with me, I must be missing the punchline.

As he leads me to the living room in his house, I gape at the beautiful artwork spaced throughout. “This is gorgeous, Jasper.”

“Esme is pleased you like it.”

Not having heard his mom speak, I turn from where I was ogling a painting that appeared to be ancient. “But she-“

“Can hear you from her study and I can feel her emotions, remember?” He winks at me, show off.

Finally we walk into the space where his siblings are and I realize what Carlisle meant: Mario Kart.

Alice and Emmett are sitting on the edge of the couch, deep in concentration while Rosalie seems bored from her perch in the corner by her significant other.

“You’re fucking cheating!” Emmett bellows, frantically mashing buttons on his controller.

“It’s not cheating if you’re playing someone that sucks.” Alice taunts him, a wicked grin on her face.

“You can see the future Alice, cut him some slack.” Jasper chides his sister as he leads me to an empty section of the couch.

My eyes widen in amusement as I observe the small dark haired girl, “That’s right! You can-“

“See everything I try to do!” Emmett yells, frustration setting in as his character is hit with a shell.

It’s almost laughable, Emmett’s character Bowser and Alice as Princess Peach. I sit down next to Jasper, a few inches between us as I cross my legs and he lays an arm behind me on the back of the couch. I try to keep my breathing even as I sit here, but the excitement to be spending time with him is almost overwhelming.

I watch as Princess Peach zaps the other players into miniature size and Rose reminds Emmett not to throw yet another remote at the ground, when Jasper leans in close.

“Want a tour of the house?” He asks in a whisper, creating goosebumps down my arms.

“Yes.” I respond, probably sounding breathless, but he’s standing and offering his hand before I have the chance to feel embarrassed.

“And this is my room.” His tour coming to an almost close, since I’m still patiently waiting for a peak at all their cars.

I walk in the doorway he pointed to, stopping just inside. My eyes were immediately drawn to the bookshelves lining the wall opposite of the floor-to-ceiling windows that seemed to be a theme throughout the house. His room was much darker than all the others, warm and inviting with the shades of black and dark wood tones. Stepping closer and skirting the immaculately made king size bed, my eyes close in on some familiar titles on the shelves.

“I always see you reading and since I have quite a bit of free time, I thought I’d pick up a few.”

I turn to look at him with my mouth parted in surprise at his thoughtfulness, his hands are clasped behind his back like he’s bashful for getting found out.

“Jasper-“ but he interrupts me.

“The garage is next.” I watch him turn on his heel and disappear down the hallway.

I look down and brush my fingers on his black comforter as I smile to myself before following him, so Jasper Hale isn’t immune to his own feelings - he just doesn’t like to show them.

Walking into the garage, my eyes skip over the beautiful cars and land on a sleek little thing in the back. A Ducati 848 to be exact, it draws me in like a magnet. Immediately I knew it had to belong to Jasper, no one else seemed like the type. Rose had her red convertible, Emmett had his Jeep, and Edward had his mom-car. Alice and Esme didn’t bother with vehicles and Carlisle had a reasonable, albeit expensive, commuter.

“Wow,” my voice quiet as my fingers brushed the gas tank, “I’m impressed, Hale.”

“You know bikes?” Jasper asks with a hint of curiosity.

“Not really, but I know enough to know that this Ducati is basically a rocket and that it must’ve cost you a pretty penny.” I replied, eyes still glued to the beautiful machinery. “Why didn’t you tell me you drove a motorcycle?”

“Not many parents let their ‘teenager’ drive death traps around.”

“Touché.” I pause, “Take me for a ride?” Swinging my leg over to straddle the beast, I lean over the tank and glance at Jasper.

I know I’ve successfully distracted him by the amount of time it takes for him to respond. Grinning, I sit back and look at him expectantly.

“Absolutely not, darlin’. No way I’m risking-“

“You have safety gear, don’t you?” I tease him as I get off and walk behind him to snag the helmet placed on the counter along the back wall.

Jasper groans and tilts his head back in mock-frustration as he fishes the keys from his pocket. I squeal as I pull the helmet on and hop excitedly towards the bike.

“You’re wearing my protective gear or no deal, sweetheart.” He lays down the law as he stalks over to a cabinet, retrieving a thick coat and gloves.

I almost protest, but he’s pulling the jacket over my arms and zipping it up my chest leaving me breathless before I know what’s happening. Even with the helmet covering my face, I’m sure he senses the heat in my cheeks as he finishes checking me over.

“You sure about this?” Jasper asks, finding my eyes under the visor with his supernatural vision.

“Are you sure about this?” I counter, the unease floating around is practically choking me in this enclosed space before it vanishes in a snap.

He flips up my visor, “Riding with someone requires trust-“

“I trust you, Jasper Hale. Completely and without any reservations or doubt in your abilities to keep me safe.” I swear my words stunned him, his mouth parted slightly as I blurted the confession. As if he realized the doubt that was flowing earlier was from him and not me.

“You are…”, he mutters his response low enough that I can’t hear as he swings a leg over the motorcycle and turns to me seriously. “Number one rule, don’t let go of me. Lean with me on turns and stay tucked in. If you need to stop, tap on my chest. Any questions, doll?” Jasper asks.

“Where are we going?” I climb on behind him and scoot close enough to wrap my arms around his waist lightly, this is the first opportunity I’ve had to be this close to him and it’s amazing. I let out a small gasp when he grabs the backs of both knees to tug me closer, bracketing my hips around his to tuck me in close. He then grabs my arms and places them over his chest, the side of my helmeted head coming to rest on his large back.

“You’ll just have to wait and see, ready?” I feel a teasing chuckle rumble in his chest, so I simply nod, excitement tingling all over from where my body touches his.

The Ducati roars to life in the enclosed space and I feel it lean to the right as Jasper taps the garage door button on the wall to open our exit. My arms squeeze him a little tighter as we launch forward down the driveway, I’m tempted to wave to Esme smiling from the porch, but I decide against it remembering his number one rule of not letting go.

This is single-handedly the best idea I’ve ever had.

Jasper

This girl will be the death of me, I know it for certain.

She could ask me to bring her the moon and I would have it in her hands in a heartbeat. Taking her out on my motorcycle? Easy in theory, extremely difficult in practice. I’ve never felt as I do right now with her arms around me, her completely pressed against my back and squeezing me at every jolt and turn I make.

Heaven and Hell, having my greatest temptation in such close proximity.

She trusts me. Completely and without doubt - her fucking words. I’m positively speechless, I’ve never had someone to myself that trusted me so wholly without needing any kind of explanation or-or proof-

And her leaning over my bike in the garage? I nearly swerve us right off the road thinking about the arch in her back, the way her chest pressed against the tank, her toes barely able to touch the ground… it took nearly every ounce of control to remain rooted while she was seated atop my motorcycle.

My only regret is not showing her the garage sooner, that image of her will forever be seared into my mind. On second thought, I’m sure my mental images were extremely loud and clear in the garage - it’s a mystery how Edward can manage to be around the couples in our family. For me at least, the emotions get too much sometimes and I need breaks.

I’ve noticed that I’ve needed them less and less since Y/n literally slammed her way into my life - breaks from everyone else that is. She not only elicits a physical reaction that no one else has ever managed to coax out of me, but she has also become a mental safe-haven. Being around her energy is as easy and mindless as breathing, if only I could breathe around her without inhaling molten lava. Everything about her completely consumes me, tears me apart and builds me back up, unmakes and makes me over and over, infinite bliss and unending torture. My singer, her blood is a symphony and I am her rapt audience hanging on to every beautiful note and praying for an encore.

My singer.

The revelation clangs through my soul and grants my body with a new purpose; her. She is mine to protect, from this day onward. My left hand reaches up to anchor myself where Y/n’s hands rest on my chest, her arms not quite long enough for her fingers to meet in the middle. I smile to myself, maybe I can allow myself this one bit of happiness, to let her in.

#twilight #bless-my-demons #jasper hale x reader #twilight fanfiction #jasper whitlock hale #jasper hale #redamancy series #jasper hale fanfiction #jasper whitlock #female reader insert #jasper hale twilight #jasper hale x female!reader #slow burn #romance

421 notes · View notes

ashcal99 · 6 months

Text

Collarbones : Jasper Whitlock Hale VII

Chapter Seven

"I can see your collarbones and baby I'm scared, Never thought I'd be so unprepared"

Warnings: Eventual smut (18+ only), mentions of death, depression, violence, descriptions of disease and weight loss, general angst, slow burn, blood

Words: 6.1k

A/N: Please lmk if you'd like to be added to the tag list. Sorry it took me so long to update, life has been completely hectic. Hope you enjoy x

Soundtrack

Previous Chapter

Series Masterlist

——————

February 5th, 2005

Soft music rung through the otherwise silent cab of Jasper’s car, the gentle thrum of the guitar filling the space between the too occupants. He had put on the music in hopes to help at least partially settle the nerves that were clear as day on Camila’s face. She sat in the passenger seat, spinning the metal rings that hung loosely on the thin fingers of her right hand, a nervous tic of hers that jasper couldn’t help but notice. Her left hand remained in his, the constant touch of their skin being something that they both needed.

Jasper weaved through the treelined road, forest blurring past as he tried to keep his focus on the drive and not the way Camila had her bottom lip pulled between her teeth. Any normal day, he would use his powers to help ease her anxiety, but that would’ve gone against her explicit request to refrain from doing so. Camila didn’t want her emotions of meeting Esme for the first time to be skewed in any way, no matter how much more comfortable it would make her.

In truth, she was terrified of making a bad impression. Sure, she knew Carlisle, but she didn’t exactly know him personally. If she really did stand a chance at all of living with these people for the rest of her existence, then she wanted nothing to obscure her perception of them or their perception of her. She had worried all morning, not wanting to come off in any bad way, she had even gone as far as to wear something else besides her normal graphic t-shirt and leggings.

It wasn’t anything fantastic or impressive, but the dark denim that fit snuggly around her thin waist, thanks to a belt fastened tightly through the hoops, and the simple ivory cotton long-sleeve that she wore under her jacket were far from her usual attire. Despite Jasper telling her that she needn’t worry about impressing his family, she couldn’t help but feel as if it was a necessity. There was a lot at stake. Not only did she care about what they thought of her because of her feelings for Jasper, but she dreaded the idea of them stuck with her for eternity and secretly despising her. She wasn’t about to make a decision that would effect everyone else so greatly without making sure it would be the best for all people involved first.

Sure, maybe it didn’t help that Edward had already shown his distaste for her, regardless of his reasoning. Yes, Jasper had explained why Edward had been acting the way he had, but she would be lying if she said a small part of her was saying otherwise. Telling her that the immortal teen had a valid reason for his resentful behavior towards her and it was actually all her fault. That same little voice screaming at her that she would make them all be miserable if she did choose to stay with them

Still, despite her nervousness and that pesky little voice, she was actually excited to be officially introduced to his family. With the normal lunches in the school cafeteria being the exception, she hadn’t exactly seen Jasper interact much with his family and the idea intrigued her to say the least. She had really only seen one side of Jasper, the side he was willing to show her, and she couldn’t help but want to see every other side of him that existed. The good and the bad, if the bad even existed in the first place. Though the circumstance was far from a normal teenage experience, this had to have been the most normal thing for the two.

So, when the car finally pulled up to the house, a modern looking mansion that was covered in large glass panels, her heart had sped up on newfound adrenaline. A mixture of bad and good nerves filled her chest, turning the food that Jasper had been insistent on buying her for lunch in her stomach as her eyes took in the beauty of the sculpture-like home. Jasper’s hand let loose of hers as he flitted at an inhuman speed to open her door for her, gone and then back again in a blur. The same hand was offered back to her, his usual gentlemanly self offering to help her out of the vehicle.

She gulped, attempting and failing to swallow the lump that was forming in her throat as she took his hand, allowing him to pull her to her feet. His hand remained in hers as he lead her to the front door of the large home. The soles of their shoes crunched against the gravel of the driveway, a stark contrast to the wide smooth concrete stairs that lead up to the entry of the house.

Jasper dropped his grip on her hand, reaching to pull the large glass door open, gesturing her into the opening as he followed behind her, hand on the small of her back. Camila’s eyes flickered around the bright white walls of the room, eyes wide as she took in the luxurious beauty of the home, small beams of light reflecting off of the various glossy surfaces around them in a soft glow. “Woah.” She muttered, not able to stop herself from gaping at the beautiful artwork that was scattered about the contemporary home. It would be impressive to anyone, but especially to someone that lived in a home like she did. Suddenly, she couldn’t help but feel slightly embarrassed at the state Jasper had seen her room in so many times.

Jasper cleared his throat softly at her side, grasping her attention briefly as he asked. “May I take your jacket for you, Darlin’?” A soft blush creeped onto her cheeks at the nickname, not able to get used to it no matter how often he called her it, as she nodded slightly. Her eyes flickered back to the stunning home as Jasper stepped behind her, gently sliding the soft fabric from her shoulders. Goosebumps rose on her arms as his cool fingers grazed delicately across the thinly covered skin. She blinked rapidly, attempting to keep herself from becoming too distracted by the simple touch.

“Camila!” A high voice chirped from her left as a blur raced towards her. Chilled arms embraced her frail frame and she told herself that she would eventually get used to Alice and her antics, even if that day was far in the future. Either way, Camila was trilled to except the girl’s friendship with literal open arms.

A huff of a laugh left the teen’s lips as she reciprocated the hug. “Hi, Alice.” She greeted, the smile refusing to falter on her lips. The arms released their grip on her shoulders as Alice pulled away, smile shinning as bright as ever.

“It’s about time you got here.” She said, giving a pointed look to her adoptive brother.

Jasper rolled his eyes. “I had to make sure she was fed, didn’t I? What kind of a boyfriend would I be otherwise?” He asked, raising an eyebrow at his sister expectantly. The word ‘boyfriend’ had of course sent Camila’s heart racing, as much as she trying to keep it at a steady pace.

Alice scoffed at his words. “I’m just messing with you and you know it. Besides, you know you just wanted more alone time with her, we could’ve fed her here.” She teased, smirking as she turned away, looping her arm through Camila’s as she lead her deeper into her home.

“Esme is so excited to meet you.” She gushed to the girl, pulling the frail human along with her as she purposely ignored her brothers distaste of the theft of his girlfriend. Camila struggled slightly to follow, forcing her feet to keep up and not trip over themselves as Alice practically dragged her to the living room of the home.

Her heart thudded along, speeding slightly as she realized that what she had been so nervous about all morning was literally right around the corner. She couldn’t decide if she slightly despised Alice for forcing her into this or if she was thankful, not knowing if she would be able to do so on her own. Either way, the remainder of the immortal family was just a breath away and she was beginning to regret telling Jasper to hold back with his powers.

As the trio rounded the corner in a decent sized sitting room, the pale beautiful faces of Carlisle and what she assumed to be Esme coming into view. Camila forced her eyes onto the woman before her, smiling shyly back as warmth creeped up her neck. The woman came slowly to a stand, trying her best not to frighten the girl as she beamed a bright smile to her.

Jasper had been correct when describing her, she had a visible kindness about her, a motherly aura that was obvious as soon as she had stepped into the room. Alice’s touch dropped from her arm, as it was quickly replaced with the return of Jasper’s hand within her own. The immortal girl sent Camila a small reassuring smile, knowing that Jasper’s touch would be able to comfort her much more than her own. She flitted upstairs, deciding that she would find Camila again later when everything would be less overwhelming for her.

Carlisle perked up, rising from his feet. “Camila, how are you feeling.” He asked, not being able to keep his centuries of being a doctor at bay as he spoke to his patient.

Camila grinned lopsided. “Not bad, all things considered.” She said, figuring that she could be far worse given her circumstance. Carlisle nodded curtly, content with her answer for the time being.

Jasper cleared his throat, gaining the attention of the other three in the room. “Esme, this is Camila. Camila, this is my mother for all intents and purposes, Esme.” He introduced, causing the smile on Esme’s face to broaden as she took the couple in, drinking up the sight of the two.

The woman walked forwards, stepping closer to the girl as she greeted her tight motherly embrace. “It’s lovely to meet you Camila, Jasper has told me so much about you.” Esme said, causing blood to flood her cheeks as she blushed a deep red at the information.

Forcing the lump from her throat, she spoke, careful to keep her voice from shaking with the nerves that had long since settled in her chest. “It’s a pleasure to meet you too. You have a beautiful home.” She said politely, trying to focus on the feel of Jasper’s skin on her fingertips.

Esme’s smile refused to drop as looked around the stunning house around her. “Thank you, I designed it myself.” She admitted, pride clear in her voice. “Although, I do have to admit, we haven’t gotten a lot of use out of some of the features until now. Perhaps you will give an excuse to finally use the kitchen?” She asked, smiling brightly.

“I already took her to get food before coming here.” Jasper informed her.

Esme’s eyes flickered between the two. “Perhaps another time then. Just let us know if you get hungry and we’ll get you something.” She concluded. Jasper’s eyes seemed to stick to Camila’s face as the stress seemed to melt away from her features. Jasper had been right of course, Esme was warm and welcoming, everything that a good mother should be, everything that her mother was. Perhaps she needed more time to get to know the family, but regardless, it didn’t take much to realize that they were all good people with good hearts, especially the woman standing in front of her.

Esme’s eyes flickered down to the couple’s intertwined fingers, unable to keep the smile from forming on her face. The look in Jasper’s eyes as he gazed at Camila was one that Esme knew all too well. It was the look of love. Something that she had not been sure he would ever find, but was so happy to see that he had.

It had been so long that Jasper had been alone in life and the sight of him with her was something she couldn’t have ever imagined. The joy that rushed through her heart at the sight seemed impossible. Jasper had been through so much throughout his long life and it was almost hard to believe that he was finally getting a glimpse of the happiness that she knew he deserved.

Carlisle cleared his throat, seeing that his wife’s attention was otherwise occupied. “Jasper, why don’t you show her around the rest of the house?” He suggested, giving the blonde a pointed look. Jasper smiled thankfully at the man, grateful that he had saved the two of them from anymore embarrassment Esme could’ve possibly inflicted.

Jasper lead the way up one of many staircases in the home, careful to not go quickly as he knew Camila would never let him cary her up the flight. Each room seemed to be more stunning than the last, the sheer beauty and vulnerability of the many glass panes being a lot to take in as it was.

The house, in all truth, had surprised Camila. She wasn’t sure what she had expected, surely not anything like the dungeons she had seen fictional vampires live in in movies, but defiantly not this. The whole home was void of the tragedies each member of the family had endured and was replaced with equal amounts of beauty. Finally, they came to a stop outside of a door, which Jasper silently opened and lead her inside.

Camila knew before he even said anything that this was his room. The plush forest green couch along the wall, the rows and rows of books that lined the rest of the space, the overwhelming calming atmosphere, the whole place screamed Jasper. “This is my room.” He said, allowing her to lead him further inside to whatever had peaked her interest most.

Her feet carried her to the built in shelves that lined the walls with what had to have been close in not a thousand books. Thicker spines in the collection caught her attention first, so she moved forwards, eyes squinting as she tried to make out the titles of the large books. “History books?” She asked, humor coating her voice as a small smirk grew bigger by the second on her lips.

Jasper stepped closer to the shelves. “Are you going to make fun of me for being a nerd?” He asked in mock offense, unable to keep his growing smile hidden.

A light laugh left her open lips as she turned to face him briefly. “No it’s not that, it just seems… incredibly fitting.” She teased, the smirk growing even larger.

“Now, I don’t know if that means I should be more or less offended.” He said, cocking his head to the side in question.

“Less, promise.” Camila said, eyes wandering the rest of the room. For the most part, the room was bare, his time obviously being filled mostly with reading. “What do you do for fun around here besides reading history books?” She asked, turning her eyes to meet his.

“I like baseball.” He said immediately, obviously not needing to put much thought into it before answering.

Camila quirked an eyebrow at the blonde. “Watching or playing?” She asked curiously.

“Both.” Jasper answered.

The curious expression didn’t drop from her face as the admission just added more questions to be answered. She knew for a fact that he wouldn’t be able to play normal baseball given his supernatural speed and strength, and was dying to know all of the details. “How is that possible?” She asked.

“It’s a bit complicated, but I promise I’ll show you one day.” He assured her, happy to see the she had accepted his answer for the time being. “But I do watch games with Emmet and Edward a lot as well.” He continued.

Her smirk returned in a flash, something about his last sentence clearly being very humorous to her. “What?” He asked.

“Oh it’s just very boyish of you, watching baseball with your brothers.” She said.

“Would it humor you to know that I promised to watch the Super Bowl with them tomorrow?” He asked, immediately receiving his answer as she let out a snicker in response. Jasper rolled his eyes playfully. “The goal is to appear as close to a normal human as possible is it not?” He asked, lifting his free hand to tuck a stray piece of hair behind her ear.

Camila smiled, trying and failing as usual to ignore the racing of her heart at his touch. “Oh trust me, you defiantly are far from convincing anyone that you’re normal.” She muttered.

It was Jasper’s time to smirk as a memory popped into the forefront of his mind. “Oh yeah, what was it again? Ridiculously attractive? Inhumanly so?” He teased, unable to stop himself as he saw the blush rise on her cheeks once again.

Her free hand came up to punch his shoulder playfully, her knuckles feeling as if they hit solid stone. “Shut up.” She muttered, looking down in attempt to hide the growing redness.

“Why don’t you make me, Darlin’?” He asked, dropping their intertwined fingers and settling instead to wrap his arms tightly around her waist, pulling her the rest of the way towards him, needing to feel her closer to himself.

Camila wasn’t too sure what pushed her to do so confidently, her usual shy demeanor dissolving quickly away as the seconds ticked by. Maybe it was the overwhelming feeling of being in Jasper’s home, being welcomed as one of the family’s own, or maybe just Jasper and his habit for making her feel like the rest of the world was melting away whenever he was touching her. Either way, it didn’t take long for her to comply and fill the gap between them, wrapping her arms securely around his shoulders, and pushing up on her toes until their lips met in a soft embrace.

Like usual, despite the cool temperature of his skin, the touch of his lips set her ablaze. Her heart thudded along in her chest at an almost embarrassing rate considering that he could hear all of it. Her fingers reached up from around his neck, curling them in the soft golden curls at the base. She pulled away, ending the delicate touch of their lips all too soon. They stood like that for a moment, just holding each other, foreheads pressed together, just soaking in their presence.

Jasper was the first to pull away, reluctantly forcing himself to do so as he allowed her to go back to her snooping. Her eyes continued scanning the rows and rows of books, recognizing some as she went, making mental notes of talking points when her eyes scanned over a few of her favorites. One of which had just grasped her attention, her fingers raising to grab the bound pages as a sudden blinding light ripped Camila from her focus, her hand dropping back down to her side.

Curiosity filled her eyes as set them upon Jasper’s face. The light was coming from him. Okay, maybe not from him, but the sun had begun to shine into the windows just to their right, like a cloud had finally drifted past and the light was somehow reflecting off of his skin. She stood there in awe, not sure how exactly to react to the stunning appearance in front of her.

“This is why you can’t go out in the sun.” She said suddenly as the realization finally hit. “I can see how that would be… distracting.” She admitted, eyes still wandering his skin in awe as she stepped closer, allowing her fingertips to brush the cool skin of his cheek.

Jasper nodded slightly. “That’s why you will unfortunately have to go without me on Monday and Tuesday.” He said, causing an exaggerated pout to form on her lips. “It’ll be okay.” He said, laughing lightly, trying convince himself just as much as her.

Camila’s eyes stayed, glued to his skin as she reached down to grasp his hand in her own, bringing it up to get a closer look at the stunning shimmer of his skin. She couldn’t decide if it looked more like it was shimmering or if it had just caught on fire, the blinding light much like hot flames flickering over his body. She supposed that this must be where the ‘burning in the sun’ thing came from, a now fairly obvious origin of the story.

Delicate notes filled the air, rolling throughout the open room as the sound thankfully pulled her thoughts away from the upcoming absence of Jasper in the days to come. It took her just a moment to recognize the sound of a piano somewhere within the home. Whoever was playing was doing so beautifully and she was having a hard time focusing on anything else in the moment.

Jasper, seeing the interest in her eyes, spoke up. “Do you want to go listen?” He asked, not waiting for an answer as his fingers intertwined in her own and he begun to lead her through the hallways. Her eyes widened as they rounded the corner, surprised to see Edward of all people sitting at the large shinny black grand piano occupying the middle of the room.

She pulled he lip between her teeth, debating for a moment if she should bring attention to herself before realizing that he would’ve already known that they were there watching him play. “You play beautifully.” She spoke out, catching the attention of the brooding vampire behind the keys.

“Thanks.” He muttered, eyes returning quickly to the song as his fingers danced quickly across the keys. Camila’s eyes flicked up to Jasper, giving him a small nervous smile before dropping his grasp and making her way towards his adoptive brother. Despite the situation making her uncomfortable, she knew it was necessary. The last thing she wanted was any animosity between her and Edward and if that meant that she was the one that needed to initiate any form of friendship then so be it.

“Do you mind?” She asked gesturing to the space on the bench beside him. He shook his head no, scooting over slightly to make room for her to join him on the seat. She lowered herself onto the plush cushion, rolling her sore shoulders and she positioned her hands over the piano. Her fingertips grazed lightly over the ivory keys, delicately pressing as they went, emitting a soft melody throughout the room. Edward smiled softly, listening as the notes continued one after the other. “Jasper didn’t mention that you played.” He spoke, eyeing her thin fingers as they continued.

Camila hummed in response. “To be fair, I’m pretty sure I never mentioned it. It’s been a while since I’ve had anything to practice with.” She admitted, thinking back to the easier times she had. Before she got sick. Before everything changed so drastically. Back to when she was just a normal teenager. She had taken piano classes since middle school, but when she had gotten diagnosed, the practicing had dwindled significantly, along with everything else in her life.

Edward eyed the girl, maybe for the first time understanding the extent of the pain she had been through. The memories that flooded her mind were difficult for her to think of, that much was obvious. He hadn’t exactly gone out of his way to see her side of things throughout this whole mess, but finally being able to read her mind made his entire view point change.

Realistically, she was just like the rest of them, her life being cut short and now she was being given an opportunity. The same opportunity he had been given, even if she was being given the choice when he had not. Either way, it was not his place to judge her and he knew his attitude had to change. She didn’t deserve his hatred. In fact, she didn’t deserve any of this, but this was the life she had been given. “You’re pretty good all things considered.” He admitted, the corners of his lips curling slightly upwards, finally deciding to show her as much kindness as he could will himself to, still, despite everything, finding the gesture difficult.

Jasper watched from the doorway, happy to see that his brother had finally decided to be kind to his now girlfriend, even if calling her that still seemed like an odd thing to do. Almost too human of thing to do. Camila scoffed. “Not nearly as good as you.” She said, dismissively waving her hand as she rolled her eyes at him.

Edward laughed lightly. “I’ve had decades to practice. I’d say that’s a pretty unfair advantage.” He stated mater of factly. Camila laughed as well, happy to see that the immortal teen was finally warming up to her. Maybe living for eternity with this family wouldn’t be so bad after all. Maybe they wouldn’t end up hating her guts like she feared so greatly.

Camila let loose a slow breath as her fingers stilled on the keys, attempting to keep the release steady as the pain that ached through her bones seemed to thrum along. Her eyes fluttered shut briefly, trying to get her heart rate to slow back to a steady beat as her head begun the throb. Edward’s concerned voice rung through her ears. “Do you need some water? Would that help?” He asked, his voice seeming miles away as the pulsing pain in her temples increased by the second.

Camila couldn’t help but feel frustrated with herself, something so simple being able set her off. The concentration needed for playing sending pulses of pain through her temples. The frustration didn’t stop as Jasper rushed to her side, laying a comforting hand on the small of her back as he leaned down, eyebrows furrowed together in visible concern. The pain seemed to slice right through her skull, growing more and more intense by the second as pressure begun to build in her nose.

Almost in slow motion, the uncomfortable feeling of her nose running started and she watched as a crimson drop fell ever so slowly onto the pristine keys of the piano, splattering over the pale surface. Her hand shot to her nostrils, attempting to stop the mess from getting even worse, but her efforts were useless. The floodgates had opened and blood was steadily pooling down onto the piano and her cream colored shirt.

Out of instinct, the two vampires held their breath, sure that disaster was just around the corner. Slowly, the realization hit that everything was okay and the bloody nose wasn’t going to cause a complete bloodbath. The realization that her blood really didn’t effect them like everyone else’s hit Jasper, and selfishly, for a moment he was thankful for the cancer that had changed the chemistry of her blood.

Still, panic filled Jaspers eyes as he took in the scene of Camila covered in her own blood like an image taken straight out of his own nightmares if he could still have them. “Carlisle!” He yelled out, the stress and unease clear in his voice as his hand came up to her nose to pinch the bridge in attempt to stop the sudden uncontrollable flow.

Edward’s eyes flickered between the two, frustration clear on his face as he stared at the bloody mess. He turned, rushing away in a blur, obviously disturbed by the whole ordeal, but Jasper couldn’t care less. All that mattered was Camila and her safety. Edward’s emotional distress would have to be something for him to deal with alone.

The man flitted into the room in a flash, immediately going into doctor mode as he saw the scene in front of him. “Jasper, keep the pressure there. Camila, we’re going to take you to my office to see what we can do to stop the bleeding quickly, okay?” He said gently, motioning for Jasper to carry her further into the home.

In a blink of a moment, there they were, in one of the rooms she had yet to see, but was just as immaculate as the rest of the home. “I’m so sorry.” Camila apologized as Jasper sat her down on the examination table.

“Nonsense, there’s no need to apologize.” Carlisle assured her, brushing off Jasper’s touch on her nose and replacing it with his own. “Jasper, go help your mother clean up, would you?” He asked, looking pointedly in the direction that they had just come from. Jasper knew better than to argue with the man, no matter how much he wanted to in the moment.

It pained him to leave her side, especially seeing her in the condition that she was in. Emotional torment swirled in his head as the realization hit that this had to be a normal thing for her and was nothing compared to what was yet to come. So, he greeted the opportunity of distraction with open arms, rounding the corner and seeing that Esme was already there, wiping up the splatters of blood with a damp rag.

Her eyes flickered up to his own, not needing to have powers like his own to see the emotional destress. “Oh, Jasper.” She said, sympathy coating her voice.

Jasper shook his head, refusing to be the weak one when Camila needed someone strong to depend on. After all, nosebleeds were normal right? Despite trying to reason with himself, he knew better. He knew that the amount of blood covering the piano and the floor underneath was not a normal amount. He knew that it would mean something serious for anyone that didn’t already know something was wrong. “I’m fine.” He muttered, grabbing another rag and helping clean crimson covered wooden planks.

Hearing the stubbornness in his voice, Esme knew that pushing the subject anymore was useless, so she decided to move onto something else. “I like her already, you know.” She said, a sly smile growing on her face.

Jasper couldn’t help the lift of the corner of his lips as he though of her. “I like her too… obviously.” He joked, trying force the spiraling thoughts of losing her from his mind. The pressure of her illness had never been so prevalent in his mind and he couldn’t stop thinking of the choice that she would have to make, the very real possibility that she would say no and soon leave him forever.

Esme’s heart ached at the sight of her son’s torment. She scrambled, hoping to find the right words to comfort him. “Everything will work out in the end.” She said softly.

His head hung at her words, biting his lip as he forced his eyes to stay on soiled rag in his grip. “Please, Esme. I know you’re just trying to make me feel better, but you don’t know what she’ll decide. I refuse to make that decision for her or pressure her in any way.” He said, jaw clenched tight.

The idea had been prevalent on his mind since Alice had told him of her vision of the future, but never had it seemed so close and so damn daunting. He knew it was right around the corner, and the nose bleed hadn’t even been something major, but for some reason, it made everything seem so much more real. So reel that it terrified him more than ever. At every corner he reminded himself that this whole thing could come to an end soon, but that didn’t stop him from growing closer and closer to her by the day. Throwing caution to the wind as he excepted his feelings for her and gave into his own heart’s wants.

Esme sighed, dropping her rag on the floorboards, bringing her palm to lay on his shoulder. “You have to have hope, Jasper.” She said, rubbing her thumb across his shoulder. A deep frown settled on her face as she took in his stone cold expression. “I’ll let you finish up here.” She said lowly, deciding it would be best to leave him to himself.

——————

The throb behind Camila’s brow persisted as she sat on Carlisle’s exam table. His firm but gentle touch finally dropped from her nose as the bleeding subsided. She looked down, horrified to see her ruined outfit. She wasn’t sure how easy it would be to clean the blood from the cream colored shirt, but had a feeling that her mother would notice her change of clothing either way.

The dread only increased when her mind wandered to what the scene she had left behind must have been like. Of course, it was just her luck. Her first time meeting the mother of her boyfriend, and she had left a huge mess in her wake. She couldn’t help but be embarrassed, and just when she was beginning to get along with Edward of course.

“Are you feeling okay? Faint at all?” Carlisle asked, pulling her from her thoughts.

She blinked rapidly, forcing her eyes up from the blood-soaked cotton. “I’m fine.” She muttered lowly, not bothering to speak up, knowing that he would be able to hear her either way. “I haven’t had this happen for a while.” She admitted, thinking back to the stained carpet she had left behind in her last home.

Carlisle sighed, turning as he grabbed a few different things, too quick for her to see before handing the small baggy over to her. “Nosebleeds are very common with your shortage of platelets, frankly I’m surprised they haven’t been happening more often.” He said, giving a soft pat to her knee. “Either way, if you do happen to experience a more severe episode again, there should be everything you need right there.” He said, gesturing to the baggy.

“I’m sure you know all of the steps, but I’ll go ahead and remind you. You’ll want to make sure that you’re seated leaning forward, breath through your mouth and pinch just above your nostrils for ten to fifteen minutes and if it hasn’t stopped by then, come see me. I did pack some gauze in that bag just incase you have a more severe episode again, so Jasper can insert it for you until he can get you to me.” He explained, giving her a reassuring smile.

His smile drooped slightly as he continued. “I’m sure you’re already aware, but these type of things will become more and more frequent as the cancer progresses.” He said. Camila forced a tight smile, nodding curtly. Just another thing to worry about in school, great.

A soft knocking sounded throughout the room, causing both pairs of eyes to flicker towards the noise. Alice stood in the doorway, smiling her usual smile as she flitted to the duo, acting as if nothing out of the ordinary had just happened. “Come with me, I have a change of clothes you can barrow.” She said cheerily.

Camila snickered softly at her enthusiasm before slowly sliding off of the exam table to a stand and following her retreating figure.

——————

The events of the day had been cut short after the brief ‘bloodbath’ that had occurred. Esme had refused to except any of Camila’s apologies, stating that there was nothing to apologize for in the first place. Camila couldn’t help but feel embarrassed about the whole ordeal, only having met her for the first time earlier that day and already making a mess of her home. It definitely hadn’t gone as planned, but as expected, Esme was just as wonderful as Jasper had described her.

After she had returned home, she hadn’t even had to ask before Jasper was crawling back into her window, avoiding being seen by her parents, knowing that Camila would need her ‘emotional support vampire’ after the grueling events of the day.

As she laid on his chest, fast asleep, puffs of air leaving her open lips, Jasper’s thoughts continued to race. His heart physically ached in his chest as his eyes scanned her soft features. The panic that lingered of losing her reared its’ ugly head as he clenched his jaw, trying to push the thoughts from his mind. As much as he didn’t want to give the idea the time of day, he couldn’t help it. As much he dreaded the topic, he knew that the best he could do would be to promise to love her until her last breath and it would ultimately be up to her if she would stay beyond that.

Next Chapter -coming soon

Tag List:

@jasper-the-beloved @parkchaeyoung1997 @bobaopal @izzyisstuff @itsmytimetoodream @soyeonrai @just-browsing101 @demirunner @dkbj14 @iloveramensm @imyelenasexual @bella7866 @ropickle @may-and-lay @breezybeesposts @emily-a13 @mamajaxx2511 @meyrryme @bertholdtswife @swagcopangeloop @idonotcareaboutyouropinion @honey132 @sakurayuki8655-blog @braveangel777 @illogic-ally @obsessed-with-pychopaths @natsvenom @iamveryholyiswear @too-many-fandoms-tbh @loser-syrus @madeofeverythingjuice @b-tchymoon @steh-lar-uh-nuhs @sabage101 @simon-e-mallory @augustlikesdeath @erissco @harleycao @clacefe @cassieisasimp @mentallyillpansexualtsversion-d @nlr1606 @blacklotus7070 @thisismyblogname5678 @dangerkitten1705 @bomen1807 @greeneyezsblog @jinxxangel13 @mariella-angel-unwin-black @aki-ham @averyasmr4 @midnight-dixon

245 notes · View notes

lchufflepuffcorn · 4 months

Text

Meeting you pt. 7

(Not my gif, credits go to its owner/creator)

Author's note: Hi !! I think it's been like a year or so since I posted anything about this series... It's been worked on, don't worry, I'm just awful at being consistent.

Words: 2716

Warning: None... longing... badly written emotions... all other warnings from this series...

Masterlist OGW Masterlist

Serie Masterlist

Part one Part two, Part three, Part four, Part five, Part six, Part seven.

Spotify link

In the night's secret

No sound but the wind- Editors

↺͏͏ ◁◁͏͏ ll ▷▷ ⋮≡

It took a little while for the three vampires to plan the perfect cover story for their situationship. Philadelphia was really the town of miracles for Alice's imagination. She'd come up with the story that Jasper was her brother and that (Y/N) was her sister-in-law. It always bothered (Y/N) that the short girl with her was so good at covering up the truth. But this time, the story was adequate and sensible for humans to understand.

Soon after leaving Philadelphia, the trio stayed in Toronto for a short time. The trio resided in a two-story building owned by a lovely older couple, who took them in without asking many questions.

"My brother doesn't talk much." Or "My sister-in-law is so discreet." Would say Alice when they were shown the apartment. The lovely -but quite nosy- Mrs. Grant quieted down after that. And (Y/N) remembered why she disliked living with humans all over again. Because the biting envy and bubbling thirst (Y/N) felt from Jasper was one thing, combining it with Alice's and the poignant curiosity from their neighbours was nothing short of unbearable.

Jasper was not much of a talker, and added to what (Y/N) knew from Alice's vision was not helping her communicate with the man. But the crisp and cold waves of nervousness she could feel wave off of him each time they talked weren't either.

Every time. (Y/N) knew that the conversations he forced on them were out of duty and under the encouragement given by Alice more than anything else.

It usually looked like this:

“It was nice today.”

"Hmm. Yes, the wind wasn’t as bad as yesterday.”

Or:

“What did you buy at the market?”

“Oh, just some clothes. You really need some new ones too…”

But slowly, the cold, shaky feeling echoing in her chest melted into a sparkling and lukewarm wind behind the skin of her neck, and the conversations started to center around things they both liked.

And then, after some months, (Y/N), Jasper, and Alice went to Alberta, where they had no trouble constructing their own small house not too far from the Slave River. It was hidden from society, perfect for the diet (Y/N) was trying to convert the other two.

And then, after some months, (Y/N), Jasper, and Alice went to Alberta, where they had no trouble constructing their own cabin. Situating it not far from the Slave River to add to the illusion of their rustic lifestyle. It was mostly hidden from society, perfect for the diet in which (Y/N) tried to convert the other two. It was also less complicated for Jasper to control his thirst for human blood if no humans were around. Plus, the surroundings were beautiful. (Y/N) liked hearing the birds in the early morning and having water run nearby.

''East from here, there's three of 'em.'' Jasper's voice said, floating in the wind and through the bushes around them.

The three of them were running in the forest, searching for prey. Jasper had smelled some moose earlier, but now they were chasing a bear and her cubs. (Y/N) did not hunt with the others often. She preferred to do it alone. But it was always fun to see how Alice and Jasper would try and compete for the first kill every time. While she didn't participate in their games, she liked watching them. It brought life to their undead lifestyle.

Running through the tall grass and between the tree's roots easily, (Y/N) spotted a rabbit. She lounged at it with ease. It didn't bother her that the animal was little. Smaller animals were more accessible for her to catch without butchering her clothes. (Y/N) didn't like to get dirt on her. Plus, rabbits never travelled alone. She would have plenty to feel full at the end of the hunt, and she wasn't in a hunting mood today, so it played in her favour.

It had been months since Jasper joined Alice's and (Y/N)'s little clan. He'd been charming and kind and helpful. Even if he thought it hard to change his diet -he often complained about how the animal blood tasted- he still tried his best. It was January seventeen now. A new year had started, yet Alice was deflating each day more to see that neither of her companions wasn't getting any closer. She found it infuriating.

Alice had seen hopeful moments, like when Jasper renovated the cabin. He'd taken (Y/N) words and requests to heart. Or when (Y/N) had consoled Jasper about one of his slip-ups, her hands brushing through his hair as he cursed himself in low growls. (Y/N) had nothing but encouraging words to give him. Then, of course, she gave him a stern talk about how she controlled herself by thinking about things humans did when she couldn't see them. Or again, when he was reading on the porch and (Y/N) was lost in her world, humming a melody only she knew. Alice had to confess that she'd never seen Jasper smile so softly before that afternoon.

(Y/N) liked to think that Jasper took his time to court her. She liked it that way. They had all the time in the world anyway. As she caught a second bunny, plunging her sharp teeth through the fur and into the skin until its still-warm blood flowed into her mouth, (Y/N) got a glimpse of the naked ring finger on her left hand. The familiar shine hadn't caught her eyes as it would usually have.

She'd removed the enormous wedding ring from her finger two months ago, preferring to wear it around the chain on her neck, where too rested a medallion with the triplet's picture.

''Ahah! You owe me ten dollars, Whitlock.''

Alice's laugh took (Y/N) out of her reverie. She looked in the direction her voice came from. The vampire couldn't see them anymore, but she knew they would come back in her direction soon enough. She let go of the now-empty rabbit she was still holding.

Raising from her spot on a tree root, she patted her dress to remove whatever could still stick to the fabric. Jasper's head popped out from behind the bushes. An amused smile lit up his face as he looked over the pixie-like vampire. The blond man stopped as he reached (Y/N)'s height, offering her his arm.

''If I could have the pleasure, miss.'' He said with a smile on the corner of his smile. (Y/N) responded to his smile with one of her own.

''If I must.'' (Y/N) teased the man, accepting his arm by wrapping her own around it.

The comfortable warmth of the calm he feels, yet a subtle hint of burning cold passion that resists in the pit of his stomach, made her eyes shine. The group walked back to their cabin. Their slow pace is now a sharp contrast to their earlier race.

''We'll have to get new shoes; you can't be comfortable in those old things,'' Alice called, referring to the boots (Y/N) wore. They were from her time as a nurse for the Second World War. Those boots were still in perfect condition. The older woman wasn't letting her things get hideous or unwearable. Still, she obliged at Alice's request.

''I think we could go in town this week.'' (Y/N)'s butterflies now associated with Alice exploded in her stomach as the girl's face illuminated with a smile. The tiny vampire held onto the other girl's hand before stopping all of her movement.

(Y/N) stopped walking to ensure that Alice wouldn't tumble over the snowy ground. Jasper stopped, too, getting closer to the girl in alarm. He was still getting used to Alice's gift. One of his hands met the small of (Y/N)'s back to help walk over some roots, but Jasper's attention was on Alice too.

''It's alright.'' She assured, starting to walk again.

''What is it?'' (Y/N)'s tone was worried. Since the other girl had revealed to Jasper and her that they were mates, (Y/N) had asked Alice not to hold secrets about her visions anymore. Especially if it concerned other people. But Alice only smiled at her, walking to the cabin. Jasper, ever the gentleman, held the door of the cabin open for both girls to enter it. He closed and locked the door behind him after following them inside.

Jasper was never much of a talker. So the girls had come to realize. But it was alright. His actions spoke louder than every word he could have said. The man walked to where both the girls were seated, but he stayed back a little. On the table was resting the piece of a rocking chair he was building at the moment; he took place behind it.

''We'll have a visitor soon.'' Said Alice before (Y/N) could reiterate her question.

''Visitor?'' Quipped Jasper, ''in this part of the woods?'' Alice shot him a smile.

''(Y/N)'s old friend, my mate, I think.'' This got (Y/N)'s attention. She, too, was wondering why they'd have a visitor so far from civilization. There were only two people who knew their location, and those people were Thade and Esther. The older vampire's face darkened with a frown.

''Which friend?'' She asked. Her hand went to the necklace she wore, holding onto the locket hiding the triplet's picture. Not all of her friends were recommendable frequentations. But Alice only smiled and rose to leave the room. (Y/N) sighed but couldn't ask anything more.

The cabin was somewhat small. Not that the vampires minded it. It was big enough to maintain purpose: not living outside like homeless people. They might not be in any states now, but they could still live comfortably. It had one large room and two smaller ones behind the wall. It gave them the chance to have their place if need be.

Her ring finger slipped into the wedding monument she still had, then back out. A comforting habit (Y/N) took since she started wearing it around her neck.

So it couldn't be Thade, that was for sure. But, on the other hand, Thade has been married to Esther ever since (Y/N) could remember meeting both of them. So maybe it was Gabriel. Last she'd heard of him, he was somewhere in France teaching history at a university. So that left – in the reasonable choices of friends (Y/N) would leave Alice with – either Gregory or Elliot. But would Gregory come to visit her out there in the woods? Esther, she knew the man was still bitter from their encounter during the First World War, as she was on the Allies' side, and he was on the Nazis.

That only left Elliot.

''What are yeh thinkin' about?'' Asked Jasper from his seat. He could feel her doubt just as she could feel his concern for her. (Y/N) turned her gaze to the man. He was still working on the rocking chair's part. Jasper's eyes shot up in her direction, staying for a second before wandering away.

''I wondered which of my friends was to be Alice's mate.'' She answered honestly.

The man hummed.

Jasper's hair seemed more strawberry blond in the candle's light than the honey colour they had in the sunlight. His frozen features, kinder in the natural glow, were darkened by the dancing shadow of the flame. The now yellowish eyes he now had matched his hair. (Y/N) could only imagine just what the man's past was to make his face so stoic and emotionless while she could feel every change in Jasper's humour. Even from where she sat, the woman could see on his arm -uncovered as he worked, littered with bite marks. (Y/N) never asked about it, just like neither of the vampires with her wondered about her story. They didn't know about Alice. She could not remember anything from her past except for her first name.

''I meant to ask,'' continued the man after a short silence. ''What's in the locket? You always play with it.''

''Old memories.'' (Y/N) rose from her seat and walked to the table, taking place in the chair facing Jasper.

Usually, the seemingly young woman had no trouble talking about her experience and life. Some things were too hard to speak about, and nobody had ever asked.

(Y/N) wasn't proud enough to assume her story could interest him more than any other. Tugging the long gold chain gently from her dress to present the locket better to the man in front of her, (Y/N) opened the locket to show the picture inside.

Alice shuffled closer to the both of them.

Three small boys were staring at Jasper and Alice now, a serious expression on their juvenile faces. The man thought they couldn't be much older than eight or nine years old. He guessed that it had been taken late in the eighteen-fifties, early sixties, from the black and white picture and their clothes.

"The first boy on the right is John, the second, the one with the hat's George, and the last one on the left is Lowett." (Y/N) let Jasper take the locket in his and, it wasn't to see any better the photos, but more like a reflex.

"Were they yours?" He asked. The man could see little resemblance between the triplets and the woman sitting before her in the rocking chair. But there was still something in the expression and the posture that reminded him of her.

''In a way,'' (Y/N) answered. "I didn't birth them or bite them, but they were my children nonetheless."

Jasper's eyes met hers. Alice smiled and got up. She silently walked to one of the other rooms, closing the door. She knew of this story and didn't want to put (Y/N) in more stress with her emotions in the room again.

''They were vampires?'' (Y/N) smiled at Jasper's expression. But, then, his incertitude swung in her throat like a monkey to a branch. She shook her head.

''They didn't live long. And brought my creator's death with theirs.'' Jasper's expression didn't change. He looked conflicted. (Y/N) continued, shrugging. ''It doesn't matter now. It was a long time ago.''

''And the ring?''

(Y/N)'s smile faltered a little at his question. Then, from the other room, they heard Alice sigh. Her disappointment was bitter in the other girl's throat. ''It was my wedding ring when I was still human.''

Jasper went quiet after that, concentrating back on the rocking chair part. (Y/N)'s eyes followed his movement; she tucked the neckless back into the collar of her dress. Outside, the sun was already setting, and from the windows, the woman could see the timid shine of the slow rising of the moon in the sky.

She suddenly felt the nip of boredom in the back of her chest. Like she was dragging the world around with her. It made her realize just how cruelly their house missed books, games, and music. If only she'd asked Esther to send her the harp she'd left in her care. But it was too late now. Her friend and Thade were travelling the world in search of his past. The man had felt the need to reconnect with his civilization now that the Second World War had ended.

Maybe they could buy a radio once they'd gone to town. But, then, the music would fill the house at every hour of the day. (Y/N) missed the time when giggles would fill the homes she was in. She missed her son.

Sons.

Cocking her head slightly to the side, her hands resting on the table. The woman's eyes slowly clouded; Jasper recognized the look for when he'd meet her dazing out outside the house. He decided not to push his questioning further and worked silently on the rocking chair again. Alice came out of the room, her gaze unfocused but lucid enough to walk. When she didn't have full-blown visions, she would sometimes lose herself in the pathways of many shifting decisions of the people around her.

In the silence, (Y/N) isn't aware that she started humming. Her finger played with the locket she'd tucked in her collar. It was a habit she couldn't seem to lose now. She hums the song Alice heard her sing to Esther years ago, and the girl can't help but sigh.

Jasper just smiled.

#x reader #x reader imagine #jasper hale x reader #twilight romance #jasper hale twilight #jasper x reader #twilight imagine #twilight fanfiction #imagines #fluff #slow burn trope

11 notes · View notes

erisismywaifu25 · 1 year

Text

Free Until Dawn

Before we start, a few bullet point facts to get out of the way:

•Jake and Bella are the same age (Bella is still older) and Seth and A.J. are a year younger than them

•In this Twilight fanfic universe, vamps and wolves who were changed before they turned 18 continue to age until they reach 18 cause I said so

•Jasper served in the Union

•My idioms or comparisons may suck but sometimes the only way for me to get a point across is to be extremely descriptive

•This story follows both the movies and books and may switch between the book’s timeline and the movies

•Proofread but not perfect

Also this story is Seth Clearwater x OC (?) Cullen based on my friend who requested this slow-burn fic, cause there are almost no Seth fanfics (the disrespect😤✊🏻). All chapters are named after Florence+the Machine songs cause me and my bestie love her stuff.

Word count: 9491

Without further ado…Chapter 4 of Shake It Out

——————————

“You going to play fair this time?” Alice asked as she stretch her left arm across her chest while standing at second base.

Emmett scoffed, twisting his back only a few away from Alice, “I always play fair.” The striped baseball cap was secured by him for emphasis.

As it thundered around them, seven out of the eight vampires were currently preparing for a game of baseball patiently, on some parts, awaiting Bella and Edward’s arrival following the Cullen's official introduction to her. Lucky for Bella, she was about to witness a sacred tradition in the Cullen household that started years before A.J. was around. It was something each vastly different personality could enjoy and gave each of them a chance to use their physically enhanced abilities to their full capacity.

Nine days after A.J. joined the rest of her family in Forks, Edward decided a baseball game was just what A.J. needed. The idea for a baseball game to ease A.J. into the new family dynamic, came to Edward after he caught A.J. reminiscing about a game-saving catch from her human years. Later that day, he approached Carlisle and proposed a game the next time it stormed, and naturally, Carlisle and everyone else eagerly agreed. So on the ninth day, when the forecast called for a thunderstorm and delivered, the Cullens played a heated baseball game.

During A.J.’s first game of baseball with the Cullens, the newborn broke out from the remainder of the barrier she had built up after her transformation. Being a part of the winning team, with star pitcher Alice, definitely aided A.J. in feeling like her old self. Easily the last ‘strike’ of her barrier, especially since striving to win and typically doing so, had encapsulated her human years. Along with the fun on that day, Emmett saw an opportunity to ensure he would always be on the winning team and jumped on the bandwagon; claiming the title ‘A.J.’s Coach’ after witnessing her skilled third-basemen skills.

“Nu-uh,” Alice exclaimed and placed her hands on dark leggings, “You totally lied about that ‘foul ball’.”

“I didn’t lie about the foul ball you hit.” the younger of the two Cullens smirked, “Ain’t nothing to be ashamed of, Alice. You’re just a crappy hitter.”

Alice gasped and smacked his shoulder, “At least I can pitch without taking someone’s head out!” she defended herself.

Emmett snickered before a smug smirk crept onto his alabaster skin, “Can’t help it, Wonderland. I’m jacked like Hercules!” he kissed both of his biceps after flexing underneath his navy blue tracksuit.

“Alright, alright, alright,” Jasper called out as he strutted towards the bickering siblings, “No fraternizing with the enemy.”

The Texan placed a hand upon Alice’s narrow shoulders which dawned a white baseball vest, and gently guided her away from Emmett with a baseball bat in his other hand.

By first base, a groan came from Rosalie that was bending down by the waist and holding her calves to stretch. The couple and Emmett, who were conglomerating near home base, turned their attention to her.

“You’ve watched ‘Dazed and Confused’ too many times.” the tall blonde gracefully swung her torso up to stand straight.

“No such thang’, Rosie.” A.J. quipped while flashing next to Rosalie with a moderately sized pink boom box in her sleeve-covered arms, “We Texans support each other.”

A.J. met eyes with Jasper’s, a mischievous glint in both their eyes to match their smirks. A silent conversation transpired between the Texans, much to the others' despair before they both resumed what they had been doing.

The youngest Hale gave Rosalie a friendly pat on the back and clicked her tongue before jogging off toward the right side of home plate where Esme and Carlisle were chatting. Her black backpack bounced off of her back as the wind pushed against the buttoned pinstripe shirt, which was similar to Carlisle’s, which was tucked into her black leggings. On her feet was a pair of hot pink socks that peeked out of the same dusty white sneakers she always wore when participating in any outdoor activity - provided an extra bounce to her step.

A ‘bleh’ left A.J. when Carlisle and Esme shared a sweet kiss just as she walked past them.

“I think I feel my teeth rottin’.” the girl swiped her tongue across her top set of teeth.

The lovers parted with a chortle from each and turned their attention to their youngest child.

“You know, Angel,” Esme sang as A.J. set the boom box down after kneeling a few feet away from them, “You might find yourself falling for someone like your father and I have for each other.”

A.J. shook her head as four of her siblings snapped their attention to their conversation.

“Absolutely not,” Emmett commented with a small frown.

Alice rolled her eyes at the overprotective brute, “Dating is normal and healthy; especially for developing teenagers.” she spoke with her arms crossed.

Rosalie stared at Alice, “She’s going to have to wait, regardless, Alice. There aren’t exactly sixteen-year-old vampires roaming around here, and we don’t need another reason for the Volturi to be on our backs.”

The Cullens stilled. Faces dropping, bodies tensing, and minds swirling with guilt. The words Rosalie were the same as they always were; spitting out insults or malign words aimed towards Edward and Bella’s relationship. Though, this time, her words held a different meaning for the group. Reminding them all A.J. couldn’t have what they wanted her to; what they all wished she could.

A normal life.

Having been changed at the youngest age of fifteen in the Olympic Coven, she had even less time to have lived as a human. Too quickly was she thrown into this world; too quickly had she been forced out of the other. They all knew she loved her family dearly, and they shared the sentiment, but they were aware of her desire to ‘be’ a teenager again; to live a normal adolescence. They desired the same for her. Rosalie most of all. Despite a few apprehensions about A.J. dating, the choice being stripped from her makes it a bit harder to play the role of an ‘overprotective and gruff’ family member.

A.J., having her back turned to the brooding vampires, knew what they were all thinking and could feel the tension in the atmosphere. She often thinks of the same thing - she craves it. Not necessarily romance, but at least the choice to. More often than not, she chooses not to share her thoughts on it, except for a few times when Edward caught her thinking about it or her and Rosalie’s late-night talks. Unfortunately, ignoring them only made the thoughts and desires stronger. The fact of the underlying doom of immortality is that every choice you’d thought you’d gain - every decision you’d thought you’d get to make twice, gets ripped away from you in a few short moments.

A.J. shook her shoulders as if a chill ran over her, and unzipped the small compartment on the front of her backpack once she set it in front of her.

“Listen,” she broke the silence as she pulled out a CD case with four men sitting around a table on the cover, “they’d have to be a very special person for me to consider datin’ - I mean, I’m hot…and got standards.”

Her unspoken mission of raising the mood was a success as a plethora of smiles, and an eye roll or two made its way around.

“Oh no! Guys, where’d the sky go?” Emmett feigned a look of fear as he peered up at the sky with a hand as a shield, “Oh, never mind, it’s just A.J.’s big-ass head.”

A.J.’s mouth dropped at her brother's words just as she finished placing the CD in the correct compartment, and twisted her torso while in a squatted position.

Rosalie sent a glare toward Emmett before saying, “There’s nothing wrong with confidence.” her eyes softened when she turned to A.J. from afar.

“It’s hot on you, babe,” Emmett explained, his body language matching his whiny tone, “Not on A.J.”

A.J. snorted, along with Alice, and the other Cullens gave Emmett a look of confusion at his choice of words.

“I sure hope it’s not hot on me,” A.J. spoke with a flabbergasted tone as she fumbled with buttons on her boombox.

Emmett physically faltered, “I-I-you guys know I didn’t mean it like that.”

Jasper quirked an eyebrow up, “Oh, really, dearest brother? Then by all means, please elaborate your eloquent words.” he spoke with one hand still on Alice’s shoulder and the other twirling the metal bat.

Emmett frowned, “I was trying to compliment my wife and insult A.J. at the same time, which proved to be more difficult than expected.”

“Seems you really are only brawn.” Jasper teased further, an almost sinister smirk across his face.

“Hey!” Rosalie barked out with a harsh expression, “I may be on your team, but I won’t hesitate to hurt you.”

Emmett’s demeanor changed instantly to smugness at Rosalie coming to his defense. The smirk on Jasper’s face didn’t move, instead, it seemed to grow wider at Rosalie’s threat; as if he were daring her to touch him. He dropped his arm from Alice’s shoulders and dipped it into his pocket.

“I’d like to see you try, yank.” the Texan leaned back as he pointed the baseball bat at her.

At the sight of Rosalie beginning to stomp forward, Carlisle thought it best to speak up.

“Rose,” the eldest vampire warned, arm tucked under his wife’s white jacket and around her waist.

The irritated blonde’s head snapped toward Carlisle’s so fast it was a miracle it didn’t break.

“What?” She spat, annoyed at Jasper and Carlisle.

Carlisle gave her one of his hopeful smiles, “Let’s try to have a nice day.”

“That goes for you too, Jasper,” Esme paused before switching her gaze to a smug Emmett, “And you.”

“W-what-I,” Emmett fumbled over his words, “I’m a victim of defamation! I’m innocent here.”

Jasper lowered the bat to the ground and settled his weight on it.

“Yer’ ‘bout as innocent-,”

A.J. drowned out the bickering behind her, engrossed in her boom box and getting it to work. The recurring problem, which she insisted was easily fixable and did not require a new one, was that the CD she put in would spin for a few seconds before coming to a stop. She grew more agitated as she repeated the process of taking the CD out, exhaling on it as she would on a cold window, gently wiping it off on her black leggings, then placing it back in the compartment, and pressing play - only to have to repeat the process. After another failed attempt, A.J. took an unsatisfying deep breath before forcefully exhaling through her nose.

“Shit.” A.J. huffed to herself, thankful no one could hear her over the bickering.

“Ya know, ever since the fall of New Year’s Eve of ‘08, my boom box ain’t never played the same.” A.J. thought aloud to anyone who would listen.

Rosalie was heading up the field and across to A.J.’s side instantaneously; always being willing to help her baby sister. It helped that she was the most skilled mechanic out of the Cullen Coven; her confidence in cars crossed over to most things technical…except t.v.s, though she was always looking to expand her knowledge. In her own time.

“Did you put fresh batteries in?” Rosalie inquired once she reached A.J.

A.J. observed Rosalie squatting down next to her, out of her peripheral vision.

“Yes, I put fresh batteries in,” A.J. snarked out without thinking.

The tone she used earned the young vampire a warning look from Rosalie, who stared her sister down. A.J. shut her eyes and turned away for a moment, before returning her gaze to Rosalie.

“Sorry, that w’n’t directed at you,” she earnestly apologized, “This damn thang’ is pissin’ me off.” she gestured vigorously at the malfunctioning boombox with pinched brows.

Rosalie ushered a ‘thank you’ in response before examining the portable stereo further.

As the two Hale girls inspected the boombox and the other Cullens chatted amongst themselves, a silver jeep pulled toward the wide-open field. Its wheels tracked through the soft ground, leaving a muddy trail behind it and on the black tires.

Esme and Alice both grinned excitedly at the arrival of the new couple and Carlisle smiled softly, not outwardly matching their level of excitement. Emmett and Jasper were too busy misconducting themselves to turn their attention to the car as it was pulled into park a bit away from the others. From beside her, A.J. felt Rosalie tense up. Well aware of Rosalie’s opinion on all of this, she knew her attitude could turn fast and possibly ruin what was supposed to be some family fun time.

Esme and Carlisle shared a look before both turning back to give Rosalie an encouraging smile. Rosalie, who held the look of distaste she always held when Bella was in mind, gave them nothing promising in return. With a cheesy grin and painfully raised eyebrows, A.J. shot her parents a double thumbs up. The couple chuckled at her behavior and returned her thumbs up and smile, at a lesser volume.

The eldest Hale sister turned her attention to A.J. after observing Carlisle and Esme’s reactions, to find her sister still in the over-the-top position. In a blink, the newborn now sat with a dramatized frown and slowly raised her left hand to rest on her no-longer beating heart. Her head shook in a defeated manner, in hope that her big sister would crack a smile at her ludicrous behavior. Fortunately for A.J., in a move so minuscule only the trained eye would notice, the right corner of Rosalie's lips raised ever so slightly. Victoriously, A.J. beamed; savoring the lightened presence and softened gaze of her bitter sister.

During this transaction, Edward stepped out of the driver's side door and walked around the silver Jeep he arrived in. His gaunt hand opened the passenger-side door, and out stepped Bella in a rugged, brown jacket with her brown hair in a ponytail covered by a baseball cap that mimicked Emmett’s, only being worn the right way around. Her shoulders were hunched as she was within herself in a way that completely contradicted the way Edward delved into himself; usually. Today, however, Edward seemed more withdrawn than usual. Previous teasing didn’t aid in reducing his nerves at all, and the fact of the constant threat this brought to Bella and his family, well, it added up.

The couple shared the same social awkwardness, but Bella carried herself in a way that lacked confidence and made her appear fragile. Whereas during most occasions for Edward, he exuded confidence, some even say arrogance; at least that’s what A.J. had heard from her sibling's school gossip and teasing. For the unusual pair, however, it seemed to work quite well for them.

While A.J. observed her brother and his new girlfriend, Rosalie had found what she believed to be ‘the sweet spot’ on the pink boom box. With a loud ‘thump’ that nearly made A.J. jump out of her skin and attracted the others' attention, the CD in it began spinning fast. A.J. beamed at her sister, who she considered a hero at the moment, and flicked her head between the boom box and her at a lightning-fast speed. A.J. excitedly placed her index finger onto the ‘play’ atop the boom box and pressed it without hesitation. Music blared from the speakers, bass instantly filling the chests of the two vampires who sat in front of it.

“WHOO!” A.J. cheered and fell back onto her butt.

Emmett thrust his fist into the air, “HELL YEAH!” he yelled.

“YEAH!” Jasper joined with a playfully stern face and copied Emmett’s action with the bat.

From an awkward angle, the ecstatic newborn wrapped her strong arms around Rosalie’s midsection, nearly toppling the elder Hale over.

“Thank you!” the girl squealed while Rosalie gained her balance back.

Rosalie smiled brightly as she hugged A.J. back, “No problem, just stop letting people touch your stuff.”

“I tried to stop Emmett from recreating that scene from ‘Say Anything’.” Edward called out from the Jeep where he and Bella just finished a conversation.

“Aw, come on,” Emmett whined with a smile, “It was Valentine's Day! I had to do something for my babe. After 72 years together, you gotta’ keep it fresh.”

The burly Cullen winked at Rosalie, who didn’t spare a glance at her husband, leaving him dejected as she marched her way to Carlisle who was only a few feet away from her. Carlisle had retrieved the second baseball bat from a long white and blue that also contained extra gloves and umpire gear and was resting his weight upon it. He greeted Rosalie with a close-lipped smile and opened his mouth to ask her but was quickly stopped by her palm flying up in front of him as she stomped by.

A.J. could feel the anger radiating off of her sister, even without a special power and her being across the field now. She knew it was a miracle for Rosalie to even be here, with her previous plan of leaving to avoid the game and Bella all together. Without a doubt, A.J. knew it would get better once the game started, the others thought so as well, especially since her demeanor was quite bright beforehand the new couple arrived.

“So that’s how you’ve managed to keep her.” Edward teased Emmett as he and Bella reached home plate.

Emmett flashed next to Edward, causing Bella to jump, and wrapped a thick arm around his brother’s shoulders, which were covered by a button-up baseball jersey.

Edward gave the younger vampire a look, already knowing what he was about to say.

“Emmett, that’s revolting,” Edward grimaced and pulled himself from Emmett’s grip.

“What?” Emmett furrowed his dark brows, “I was just gonna remind you that I’m not the one who thought sparkling was a dealbreaker.” he decided to keep his previous thought to himself.

A few of the Cullen ‘children’ laughed at Emmett’s remark, despite it being at Edward’s expense. His joke, as expected, did not sit well with Edward who was glaring at his brother.

A.J. glanced up at Jasper messing with a baseball bat, “Oo! That’s awkward.”

The girl sucked a breath through her bunny-like teeth while beginning to read through the tracklist on the back of her CD case.

A half-hearted grin slowly spread its way onto Edward’s face and his right flew up to swipe his mouth.

“You know, Emmett,” his arm was now around Emmett’s shoulders, “I think you're just scared of your team losing.”

“Not unless you plan on throwing the game,” Emmett smirked with crossed arms.

Edward’s shit-eating look was stolen by Emmett. His head snapped over to Esme, asking a silent question, but easily found the answer by using his gift.

“Rosalie and Alice wanted to be on a team this time,” Esme explained nonetheless while grabbing umpire gear out of the baseball bag, “We’re team ‘Wonder Woman’!”

Edward furrowed his brows, “Jasper’s on your team.” His inquiry was disguised as a statement.

“It’s an honor to be on a team named after comics’ finest heroine,” Jasper answered for himself as he practiced his batting stance to the side of Carlisle and Rosalie.

Edward looked to Emmett, “And we are…MVP?” a look of dissatisfaction was on his face.

“I was vouchin’ fer the Cheetahs, personally,” A.J. spoke up, “You know, Wonder Woman’s nemesis and all.” she clicked the skip button at the top of the boom box.

Esme smiled at her children’s banter and pushed her way toward Bella with a black baseball glove and chest protector. Bella met her gaze with a close-lipped smile and hesitantly took the glove when the Cullen matriarch extended it to her.

“Glad you’re here,” Esme wrapped an arm around Bella, “We need an umpire,” she stated while leading the girl to home base.

Emmett waltzed past them, “She thinks we cheat.” he continued heading down the field.

“I know you cheat.” Esme taunted as Emmett tossed a baseball between his hands.

A.J. tsked, “Y’all love to say that ‘cause our team happens to always win.” she goaded while placing her ‘Muse’ CD back into the small compartment of her backpack.

“What about last time,” Rosalie asked with a sarcastic tone from her spot near second base.

Bella glanced at the brooding woman, “What happened last time?” she switched her gaze to Esme as they parked themselves at home base.

“Here, slip your jacket off for a moment, sweetie,” Esme instructed kindly, “Last time we all played, which was…,”

“March 30,” Alice answered from the pitcher’s mound.

Esme thanked Alice with a smile, “Thank you. Anyway, Carlisle continuously struck out during the first inning, resulting in team ‘VIP’ having five fewer runs than team ‘Great Batsy’.”

During her explanation, Esme slipped the black chest protector over Bella’s neck.

“Crying, Bella,” A.J. scooted her bottom to face Bella, “I was cryin’ and I don’t even have tears.”

Carlisle smiled sheepishly, “In my defense, I had a lot on my mind.”

A.J. didn’t miss the subtle embarrassment that showed on Edward’s face nor the looks her siblings gave him.

“No excuse, sir,” A.J. threw a finger up, “We’re winners, and I expect ya ta act like it!”

Her behavior earned a chuckle from Carlisle and an exclamation of agreement from Emmett.

As this went on. Esme adjusted the chest guard causing Bella to blink at the sudden movement but eventually helped Esme settle it on her torso. Once it was resting on her shoulders, Edward snaked behind Bella and adjusted the straps across her upper back. Esme then stepped away to give the new lovers some space. Her pallid face held a warm expression at the sight of the ‘son’ she had grown most fond of, finally finding happiness in love.

The sweet moment was soon ruined as Bella was jerked back by the force Edward unconsciously used. A crease formed between Esme’s dark eyebrows as she frowned at the uncomfortable scene in front of her. She sent a small smile; whether it was a warning to be mindful or encouragement was unknown; and stepped away from the couple to help the others in setting up.

“Sorry,” Edward’s hands faltered on the straps, “Last time I did this was back when A.J. had first joined us.” he secured the chest guard on Bella’s back.

Bella nodded, still holding her brown jacket on her arm. The sleeves of her white shirt twisted as Edward’s hand snaked around her to lift the brown jacket off of her right arm.

“It’s okay,” she swallowed as Edward prepared her coat to assist it on, “How long ago was that?”

“Why does it matter?” Rosalie snarked out with crossed arms and a hip popped out.

Edward paused in helping Bella put her jacket back on to give a warning look to the blonde.

Carlisle’s lips pressed into a straight line, “Rose,” he warned.

Bella looked back at Edward before back at Rosalie.

“It doesn’t, I was just curious.” Bella answered honestly.

“And it’s a perfectly valid question,” A.J. spoke up.

Rosalie’s eye roll could practically be heard by the others.

A.J. briefly glanced back at those behind her, “If we’re goin’ off the day I actually moved here, then…,” she trailed off while calculating.

“A.J.’s lived here since last August.” Carlisle answered for her.

Bella nodded as she consecutively pushed her arms through the sleeves of her jacket as Edward finished helping her by hiking the coat up until it was entirely back on.

“It’s a little tight,” Bella stated with tight lips as she rolled her shoulders.

The jacket she wore barely fit over the padding of the chest guard thrown onto her. Her arm movement was restricted, but she supposed it was better to have stiff arms than a shattered sternum.

Loud guitar suddenly blared from A.J.’s boombox, the owner of it now swaggering over to home plate. She snatched up a black glove lined with hot pink from the gear bag on her way over.

“Sorry, Bella-rella,” A.J. approached the uncomfortable human, “It’s either have no protection ‘gainst my lethal pitches and get soaked down to your knickers, or have protection from such pitches buuut still get soaked - ‘cause-uh-do you smell that?”

A.J. threw her arm around Bella’s padded shoulders and thoroughly inhaled with her nose pointed toward the sky.

“It’s gon’ rain.” A.J. rasped out while gradually lowering her head.

Emmett grinned from over by third base, “It’s gon rain!” he repeated.

“IT’S GON’ RAIN!” A.J. shouted before patting Bella on the back and jogging to the pitcher's mound.

Esme chuckled next to Carlisle before turning to her husband.

Her hands pressed his chest, “Alright, enough chitter-chatter, Bella didn’t come here to talk. Let’s play some baseball!”

Esme patted Carlisle’s chest, signaling him and the remaining Cullens not in place, to assume their positions on the field.

A.J. eyed Alice as she approached the pitcher’s mound, “You’re gonna’ have to move.” A.J. jutted her left thumb toward home plate.

Alice furrowed her brows, “And why is that?”

Rosalie frowned as Carlisle her way, “Yeah, why is that? The team I’m on lost last time.”

“We know,” Emmett stated, “We decided, however, that we wanna play the field first… and so A.J. can pitch first.”

Rosalie rolled her topaz eyes once again while Alice agreed to their decision and they both jogged back to home plate. The remaining two members of team ‘Wonder Woman’ had yet to move from their previous spots at home plate and waited for the others to get into position.

“Keep an eye on Emmett, alright,” Edward spoke into Bella’s ear with a smile.

Emmett frowned, “Hey, we’re on the same team!”

His fist slammed into his gloved left hand, clearly itching for the game to start.

“That doesn’t change your track record.” Edward retorted after flashing over to second base as Carlisle jogged to first.

With the baseball gripped tightly in her right hand, A.J. swung her arm toward Jasper at home plate, who was also preparing.

“Careful, Eddie,” A.J. warned, “Might start ta’ think you're a snitch.”

Edward chortled, “How can one be a snitch in baseball?”

A.J. craned her neck to look at him, “Uh, I don’t know, mind reader.” she squinted suspiciously at him.

Emmett glanced between before a look of realization spread across his pallid face.

“Ohhh, yeah, I see what you’re gettin’ at, Aje,” Emmett smirked while eyeing Edward, “You’re gonna listen to our team's thoughts and then sabotage us.”

Edward paused and blinked, words escaping him. One weakness he would never admit, even if he was being tortured, is the effect Emmett and A.J. have to completely and utterly bamboozle him. Once the shock of Emmett’s accusation wore off, Edward peeled his eyes open and met Bella’s brown ones. She held an amused expression, her eyes asking a question Edward couldn’t hear. He sent her a silent shrug as an answer whilst A.J. and Emmett continued their rant.

“Alright,” Carlisle’s call silenced Emmett and A.J., “I’m sure Edward is not planning a betrayal, and even if he was-,”

“Which I’m not.” Edward chimed in.

“I know,” Carlisle spoke in his mind with an apologetic look, “Even if he was, I think we’d still manage to win. Even without Rose on our team.”

A smug smile spread across Carlisle’s lips, as a chorus of ‘Oo’s’ blended with the breeze that blew his striped scarf.

“Let’s go then,” A.J. spun on her heel to face home plate, “Jasper.” she nodded.

Jasper nodded back, preparing his stance.

“Angel.” he smiled at her, eyes filled with determination.

In an instant, A.J. propelled her right arm forward. The ball flew from her hand and headed straight to Jasper. The bat he held swung out and away from his shoulder, his torso and legs twisting to enhance the force he hit with. With a loud crack of thunder, the ball collided with the bat and launched high into the sky. Unfortunately for Jasper, the ball headed into the air directly above A.J., who leaped up what seemed like five-hundred feet to Bella, and caught the ball with ease in her gloved hand. A.J. landed on her feet with a thud, sufficiently stopping Jasper from running just as he dropped the bat.

Bella glanced up at Esme from her squatted position a little ways behind Jasper as laughs or winces echoed through the air. The speed at which the Cullens play made it difficult for her to decipher anything, let alone the baseball knowledge she lacked. She briefly wished she would’ve paid more attention to her step-father’s career now. Answering her silent question, Esme nodded to her with a grimace.

“Out.” Bella called.

“Oh-ho-ho, Mr. Whitlock,” A.J. called in a nasally British accent, “How it seems your strategy has grown weak.” her smile grew at the sound of Emmett’s snicker.

Alice watched as her husband tracked back to join her and Rosalie on the sidelines, frown on his face but posture still perfect. Jasper handed her the bat as he passed her and continued until he was next to Rosalie.

“It’s okay, Jazzy,” Alice cooed, “It was only your first bat.” she gave him an assuring smile as she approached the plate.

A.J. grinned at Alice as the older vampire settled into batting position. A strike of lightning in the distance lit the grey sky and was quickly followed by a deafening crack of thunder. Bella jumped in her skin at the unexpected volume which only heightened her stress levels. Having noticed the jump, Esme raised a hand that had been resting on her knee and placed it on Bella’s padded shoulder. She gave the girl a squeeze and a gentle smile as Bella craned her neck to meet Esme’s gaze.

“Hey, batta’-batta’, hey, batta’-batta’, swang~,” A.J. mimicked exuberantly swinging an imaginary bat.

A smile spread onto Alice’s face upon hearing the song, “I got ta just do my thang~.” she happily sang back.

“Enough singing,” Emmett yelled, “Get on with the game!” he eagerly threw his fist into his gloved hand.

A.J. frowned as she twisted her head back, “Let us enjoy ourselves!”

“Clearly someone can’t dance.” Alice smirked teasingly still in her batting stance.

Emmett’s hands paused with an almost offended look on his face. Those spectating were either watching thoroughly entertained, or less than amused and wanting to continue with this close game.

“Oh, I can dance,” Emmett answered nonchalantly, “Tell ‘em, babe.”

Thunder cracked around them as all eyes zoned in on Rosalie, awaiting an answer. A smile slowly grew on her diamond-like jaw as if a pleasant memory was filling her mind.

“Oh, he can dance,” her declaration rewarded her a wink from her doting husband.

A.J. stuck her tongue out, “Bleh,” she faked a gag as her torso rag-dolled.

Esme chuckled at her reaction from her hunched-over position behind Bella.

“Alright, ‘nough talk, let’s get back to the game.” Esme clapped her hands together right as it thundered.

Carlisle nodded at his wife, “Impeccable timing.” he smiled at her.

She quirked a short eyebrow up at him with a smirk, “Thank you.”

Returning her attention back to the game, A.J. peered up at the sky as if she was waiting for something. Her eyes fluttered shut as she forcefully inhaled for an exaggerated amount of time. Bella furrowed her brows at A.J.’s action, briefly glancing up at Esme again.

“She’s waiting for the thunder,” Esme answered without taking her eyes off the scene in front of her.

“She technically don’t have to,” Jasper chimed in, “As long as we’re playing during a storm, we don’t have to wait for a ‘loud sound’.”

A.J. lowered her head, “I like the dramatics. Sue me!”

Before Bella could blink, the ball was flying at Alice. With another loud crack of both thunder and the bat and ball colliding, Alice dropped the bat and dashed toward first base. The ball flew past A.J.’s left side and headed to Emmett who immediately jumped into action. He shot into the air, left arm extended above him, with the ball directed at him. As Alice reached first base, the ball grazed the top of Emmett’s gloved hand and continued into the forest behind them.

Edward darted back into the forest as Alice approached second base. His topaz eyes bounced rapidly around the trees and brush until he spotted the baseball. Edward then snatched the ball off the ground and threw it to Emmett through the trees, who was anticipating the throw. Emmett hurled his body to the left and roughly landed at third base when Alice stepped on it.

A chorus of ‘whoos’ and hollers sounded from home plate as Alice bounced victoriously on third base. Emmett scoffed as he rolled onto his knees before hopping up while Edward came flashing back from the woods.

“Lucky shot,” Emmett commented as he stood next to Alice.

Alice looked up at him with a smug look, “That was pure skill, Emmett.”

“Damn right it was,” Jasper called out with his arms crossed.

The Cullens continued an epic game of baseball, one that was far too fast for the human eye to properly view. Bella struggled to see anything but the aftermath chatter and positions after the end of a run. Thankfully for her sake, Esme or another member of team ‘Wonder Woman’ was there to help her with the calls; disregarding Rosalie.

The Cullens had made it to the third inning, in record time thanks to their enhanced abilities. Team ’MVP’ was currently three runs ahead of team ‘Wonder Woman’. Jasper had redeemed himself and hit a home run, Alice was currently at second base, Esme resided by Bella and awaited her turn, and Rosalie was currently up to bat. Team ‘MVP’ were positioned the same way as before and eager to continue.

“You ready?” A.J. nodded at her sister as they both readied themselves.

Rosalie crouched into position, “As ever.”

A.J. drew back her right arm before swinging it forward and putting her weight on her front leg. The baseball flew toward Rosalie before another crack echoed through the field and throughout the surrounding forest. Rosalie dropped the bat, pushed off of home plate, and sprinted down the field. The baseball was heading between second and third base, where Edward and Emmett were positioned on either base.

Alice sprinted past Edward and Emmett who were distracted by the fast-approaching ball. As the pixie-like vampire passed by third base and Rosalie reached first, Emmett and Edward jumped simultaneously with their arms outstretched and ready to catch the ball. Unfortunately, the duo collided with each other in a loud ‘thwack’ and the two members of team ‘Wonder Woman’ managed to reach home plate. The women secured two more runs for their team and caused a total wipeout for the opposite team that resulted in Edward and Emmett splayed out on the grass and the baseball deep in the forest.

Alice skidded to stop a few feet away from home plate and Rosalie followed by sliding across the grass and onto home plate. Amidst the cheers of the successful team, Jasper ran to Alice and picked her up into a spinning hug; squeals of laughter leaving the victorious woman. With a grin, Esme extended her arm down to Rosalie who grabbed it with a smirk and hopped up.

“That’s how we do it!” Esme high-fived Rosalie once she was standing.

Bella nodded from her squatted position, “Yeah, that was a good play.”

Rosalie glared down at the girl, “You couldn’t even see it.” she spat.

Esme’s smile turned to a frown, “Rose.” she warned.

“What? It’s true.” Rosalie defended.

“Well, I mean, she’s right,” Bella said, “I-I couldn’t see it, but-,”

“Alright, how ‘bout we turn our attention to the real issue ‘ere,” A.J. interrupted the three, “Which is betrayal!”

A.J. thrust her finger in the direction of a chuckling Emmett and Edward who had just stood up.

Edward, having already heard what she was about to say, ceased his laughter.

“A.J., are you really pushing this?” Edward groaned.

A.J. fought back a smile, “Oh, yes, indeed I am pushin’ this, traitor!”

Emmett stared at Edward, “Oh, yeah. It is a bit strange that the mind reader Edward didn’t read in my mind that I was gonna jump for the ball.” a smirk spread across his short jaw.

“Exactly!” A.J. eagerly agreed with a stomp, “He sabotaged us so the loser team would have a chance!”

Rosalie crossed her arms, “I think we have a chance regardless of Edward’s treachery.”

“I’m-I am not a traitor. I did not even think of reading anyone’s mind, because I was focused on the game.” Edward let out a flabbergasted laugh.

Emmett adjusted his stance and crossed his arms.

“Exactly what a traitor would say,” Emmett stated.

Edward’s tongue darted across his pristine white teeth as he grinned in annoyance, “I think the only one you should be accusing of ’treachery’ is Alice.”

A smirk spread across Edward’s lips at his words.

“What!” Alice’s hands fell onto her hips.

Her eyebrows knitted together underneath her navy blue cap at the sudden accusation. A crack of thunder sounded around them as if Alice herself conjured it up with her voice. The babbling duo, Emmett and A.J., observed Alice before staring at Edward and then meeting each other’s gaze. Skeptical looks were painted upon their pale faces as the wind picked up around them. The rest of the Cullens and Bella were left awaiting their next move, wondering if Edward’s distraction worked or not.

The accusing pair busted out in chuckles and giggles, ripping Edward’s hopeful look off of his face.

Emmett turned his head to a dejected Edward.

“Alice wouldn’t have the time to see our moves,” Emmett stated matter-of-factly.

A.J. nodded, “Yeah, plus, she ain’t on our team.”

Emmett and A.J. smirked at each other as if they just deduced the most abstruse mystery in history. A snort could be heard coming from Hale ‘twins’ by home plate, though that did nothing to deter the growing confidence of A.J. and Emmett.

Edward chuckled out in confusion, eyes darting around those who stood throughout the field. His mouth opened and closed, struggling between the option of a logical defense or leaving the whole ordeal to rest. Staying silent seemed like the best option, considering logic fell upon deaf ears when it came to Emmett and A.J., but ultimately Edward decided to play the ‘call on the parent’ card.

“Carlisle,” Edward pleaded to the man who was standing near first base.

Edward motioned to his ‘attackers’, hoping the wise man’s words would bring some sense to the situation. Carlisle looked upon his son with tight lips and one hand over the other resting in front of his body. A glint of amusement shone in Carlisle’s golden eyes from the scene he silently observed, much to Edward’s dismay.

“Emmett, A.J.,” Carlisle spoke, “Edward isn’t a traitor-,”

The wind picked up around them and quieted Carlisle as a fog emerged from the enclosing forest. A gasp fell from Alice’s lips while her arms fell from her hips to her sides. Her eyes had seemingly glazed over, hinting at the vision she was having. As if in slow motion, Edward stared at her before peering over at the forest behind them just as Alice’s vision ended. The rest of the Olympic Coven’s eyes turned toward the forest, whether it be from their own acute hearing or sensing the seriousness of Alice’s vision.

“Stop!” Alice yelled desperately as it thundered around them.

Edward was across the field and next to Bella at a moment's notice, the rest similarly hustling about. With her eyes still peering past the bare trees, A.J. felt an arm grip her left bicep tightly. Her eyes flicked over to see Emmett pulling her toward the rest of their family, Carlisle on her other side. Their eyes held a look of worry as they flashed over together.

A.J. flickered her gaze between them as they joined the rest at home plate, to which Edward was pulling Bella toward the Jeep as Alice spoke quickly. A.J. stared at her family with knitted brows, clearly missing a vital piece of information, though she heard words of getting Bella out of here and nomadic vampires hearing their baseball game.

“Nomad vampires?”

Panic fell upon A.J., concentrated in her chest, as memories filled her mind. She swore she could feel teeth tearing into her skin again, the excruciatingly slow loss of blood, her vision blurring, the taste of iron mixed with mud cutting off her breathing; choking her as water filled her lungs. Squeezing her eyes shut, A.J. attempted to combat the rising terror with logical thoughts.

“I’m a vampire now too.”

“They can’t hurt me.”

“I ain’t food anymore.”

“They might be vegans like us.”

“No, they ain’t. They’re the ‘predator’ on the news.”

Unfortunately for her, the thoughts weren’t anything but a mere hindrance, to what she knew was illogical fear.

“It is illogical, right?” A.J. questioned herself amidst the chaos growing around her and the sudden absence of music.

Before she could freak herself out more, a wave of peace washed over her and drowned out the fear in her chest. A moment after, two hands came to rest on her shoulders, which she deduced to be Jasper’s as everyone else was in her line of sight.

Her head snapped up, the bottom of her messy braided pigtails bouncing with the movement. A.J. was met with an assuring smile from Jasper, who squeezed her strong shoulders.

“Everythang’s gonna be alright.” Jasper reassured her as he guided her to stand in the back with Bella.

A.J.’s pigtails bounced again as she nodded furiously, “Yeah, I know.”

With another squeeze and a close-lipped smile, Jasper parted from his sister and hurried over to Emmett who stood waiting at the far right end of the line of vampires.

“Get your hair down.” Edward ordered Bella with a pinched expression.

Bella momentarily froze and stared at Edward with a bewildered look, before hesitantly pulling the hair tie from her mousy brown hair.

Rosalie turned around with a scowl, “Like that’ll help, I can smell her from across the field.”

With one last look, Rosalie turned back to face the oncoming threat with the others. Carlisle moved to stand tall in the front as everyone else gathered around. They formed a ‘wall’ in front of Bella, her being the obvious vulnerable human here, and A.J. as she had been pushed to the back by Jasper.

“I shouldn’t have brought you here, I’m so sorry,” Edward shook his head as Bella pressed him for an answer, “Just be quiet and stand behind me.”

Bella clung to Edward’s side as he stepped toward the others but stayed just behind them with Bella. The youngest Cullen moved to Bella’s other side, matching the body language of her family. Past the line her family created in front of the three, A.J.’s copper eyes fell upon three figures emerging from the woods.

In the front, passing through the growing fog, was a dark-skinned man with long locks, an orange leather jacket atop his bare torso, and a pair of dark, lined pants. To his right, was a woman with curly ginger hair and a long fur shawl that blew in the wind as they tracked forward; a confident smirk carved into her alabaster skin added to her alluring appearance. Lastly, the most menacing of them all was a man who stood to the left of them; his blonde hair was pulled into a low ponytail that enhanced his dark, hooded eyes. The one characteristic that united them was the piercing ruby color of their eyes, which reminded A.J. of her own a couple of months ago.

The young vampire hurriedly untucked her pinstripe jersey from her leggings all the while keeping her eyes trained ahead. With her enhanced speed, she threw open the buttons of her shirt, leaving her with just a baby blue tank top adorning her torso.

“Here,” A.J. spoke to Bella, snapping the girl out of her frozen state.

The human turned her head to face the newborn vampire and her eyes followed consecutively. Her gaze fell upon A.J.’s worried face as the taller of the two threw her jersey around Bella and placed it on her shoulders. Bella briefly unlatched herself from Edward for the jersey to encase her shoulders and arms.

A.J. adjusted the jersey on Bella, “It’s not much, but I’m ashamed to admit I didn’t wash it last time we played so it’s…oh shit.”

A.J.’s ramblings were cut short as the trio of vampires was now standing still a few feet away from the group. With her enhanced hearing, she heard Bella’s heartbeat pick up next to her and prayed that the oncoming threat wouldn’t notice amidst the storm.

The frontman raised his right hand in a fluid motion, and in it was the homerun ball Rosalie hit. His pristine teeth contrasted against his dark skin as he flashed an inviting smile. A.J. couldn’t help but appreciate his good looks despite the tense situation. His shorter stature and medium build were carried casually, in a way that let you know he was confident and felt no need to compensate. The exposed torso revealed by his unbuttoned green-tinted vest and jacket showcased his toned upper body. He was undeniably tantalizing and attractive, though A.J. supposed that’s what made him dangerous.

“I believe this belongs to you,” The vampire remarked before flicking his wrist and sending the ball toward Carlisle.

Carlisle caught it with ease, an unreadable expression on his face.

“Thank you.” a friendly smile appeared on Carlisle’s face.

A.J. shifted her weight before stepping over to stand next to Esme. Sensing her daughter moving next to her, Esme instinctively reached for the girl’s bicep before snaking her arm around A.J.’s. and pulling her close. Esme flicked her eyes to A.J.’s arm upon meeting bare skin, curious as to what happened to her jersey. In response, she received a simple smile and her daughter’s cold left hand on hers.

“I am Laurant,” the stranger spoke again, “And this is Victoria and James.”

A.J.’s gaze lingered on Victoria, her voluminous curls framing her soft features. Her presence intrigued the young vampire more and more as she studied her face and body language. It was almost feline, the way she moved, her minuscule movements were elegant and smooth. Once again, it was clear how her looks could be a weapon.

James, however, did nothing but frighten A.J. Everything about the vampire screamed dangerous and to stay away. He, unlike his coven-mates, did possess the same alluring appearance or body language. The ways his eyes seemed to stare into your soul along with his tall stature reminded A.J. of the tales of Slender Man she’d heard some classmates talk about before she was turned. His weapon, without a doubt, was intimidation.

“I’m Carlisle,” the Cullen patriarch gestured to the others standing beside him, “This is my family.”

“I like your shawl,” A.J. spoke and nodded to the one draped around Victoria.

Instantly, she felt all eyes on her and Esme pull her tighter to her side. The girl shrugged it off, thinking to herself that flattery is usually the best way to smooth things out.

Victoria eyed A.J., taking in her appearance having paid more attention to everyone else.

“Thank you,” Victoria smiled, “I like your top. It’s a good color on you.” her words seemingly rolled off of her tongue.

A.J. returned the smile, “I know, right.” she let out a stiff chuckle.

Flattery certainly worked for herself as her apprehensive mood lessened from the compliment.

“Yes, well, I’m afraid your hunting activities have caused something of a mess for us.” Carlisle brought the attention back to him.

Laurant’s dark eyebrows raised as his ruby eyes widen ever so slightly.

“Our apologies,” he spoke earnestly, “We did not realize the territory had been claimed.”

His apology seemed almost empathetic according to A.J.’s ears. Regardless of whether or not she had been swayed by his being, she almost took his apology to heart if it had not been for the guard she desperately held onto.

Carlisle nodded, “We maintain a permanent residence nearby.”

Laurant twisted his neck to face James who was peering past Carlisle and Esme at Edward. A.J. unconsciously hardened her eyes in anticipation of what the nomad may do, having a hard time relaxing in his menacing presence. She feared what he may attempt to do to her family and wondered just how capable his coven could be against the Cullens.

“Really?” Laurant’s smooth voice held a tone of disbelief, “Well we won’t be a problem anymore. We were just passing through” His gaze returned to Carlisle.

“The humans were tracking us, but we led them east,” Victoria announced, “You should be safe,” she spoke the last part in a hushed tone as she leaned her head forward for emphasis.

Carlisle nodded, “Excellent.”

A.J. caught the reluctant smile on her father’s face. It was one she’d seen him use on a woman who had struck up a conversation with him on one of A.J.’s earlier excursions to ease her back into society. She recalled the woman’s tone being rather flirty as she rang them up at the register.

Laurant glanced around at the Cullens.

“So,” he pressed, “Could you use three extra players?”

One by one the Cullen’s eyes fell upon Carlisle, awaiting his response. His gaze never left Laurant as he silently considered the best option.

Laurant smiled, “Oh, come on, just one game.”

Carlisle let out a quick sigh before smiling, “Sure, why not. A few of us were leaving - you can take their place.”

A.J. crane her neck to glance back at Edward and Bella. Edward’s hardened gaze seemed almost frightened as he glared ahead at James. The fear on his face didn’t come from a fear of his own well-being but Bella’s. A.J. knew that was the only thing on his mind, getting Bella away from here and keeping her safe.

“Why didn’t you just flash her to the car? You had time.” A.J. thought to Edward who only briefly spared her a glance.

Deciding to let it be, A.J.’s eyes moved to Bella who stood with her mouth slightly agape and still clung to Edward. The young vampire knew the human’s fear well and sympathized with her, especially since it was unknown how long Bella would be forced to endure this.

“We’ll bat first.”

A.J.’s turned around in time to see Carlisle toss the ball to Laurant, but Victoria flashed her pale hand up in time to catch it.

“I’m the one with a wicked curve ball.” The smirk permanently edged into Victoria’s face grew wider.

The atmosphere grew lighter at her remark as the Cullen's spirit slowly returned.

“Oh, well I think we can handle that.” Jasper egged her on which earned a confident smirk from Emmett and A.J.

Laurant sang out an ‘oh’ at the banter, body swaying with anticipation as he clapped.

A.J. leaned her torso forward, “I’m a bit of’a star pitcher myself.” she eyed Victoria with a smile while Esme began to pull her toward the others as they retreated back.

“We shall see,” Victoria spoke as both she and Laurant spun around to head down the field.

Though his coven-mates were moving to prepare for the expected game, James stayed stationary with his animalistic gaze set on Edward and Bella. His head tilted to the side as he further inspected his ‘prey’, but Bella kept her gaze set on Edward. Her arm was wrapped around his as she waited for him to move though he stayed in an intimidation contest with James. Finally and with one last look, James turned on his heel and began to find his spot on the field. Bella let herself breathe as they were almost off the hook, but she relaxed too soon. Just as she and Edward began turning, the wind blew against their backs which pushed her scent straight toward James.

James’s neck twisted as he inhaled deeply, eyes fluttering shut as he faced the couple again.

He exhaled and smiled, “You brought a snack.”

The predatory vampire lunged forward in a hunched manner, ready to pounce on his prey. Edward pushed Bella back and jumped to action as well, all but A.J. following suit, including James’s coven-mates. The young vampire swiped her jersey off of Bella’s shoulders and swiftly threw it on as she moved to stand in front of Bella. The girl’s copper eyes glared at the trio in front of them, her fear manifesting into courage. She and Bella suddenly stumbled back as Esme pushed A.J. farther away from danger. Perhaps that was where her courage came from; an unconscious understanding that her family wouldn’t allow any harm to come to her.

“A human,” Laurant questioned as the tension grew.

“The girl’s with us.” Carlisle stated with a calm voice, “I think it’s best if you leave.” his eyes stayed trained on James.

Laurant nodded, “I can see the game is over. We’ll go now.” he held his palms open and facing the ground as he slowly backed away.

Once again, James lingered, this time with Victoria by his side, who seemed eager to kill for him. Laurant glanced at James questioningly, his patience running thin for such antics.

“James.” Laurant called out.

With a growl and one last look, James’s posture straightened as he turned away from the Cullens. Victoria followed with a hiss and joined James to which they wrapped an arm around each other and stalked away. Laurant led them as he walked backward before gradually spinning around to walk straight.

A.J. watched as Edward slowly raised from his hunched state, deep in thought…or what she assumed was James’s.

“Get Bella out of here.” Carlisle ushered as he placed a hand on Edward’s shoulder, “Go.”

The eldest Cullen then pushed Edward back toward where Bella and A.J. resided. A.J. quickly flashed to the side and gave her brother an encouraging smile to which she received a nod. As Edward rushed Bella to the jeep, the Cullens quickly gathered what they had come here with.

“W-wait, what ‘appens now?” A.J. asked as Carlisle wrapped an arm around her shoulder and placed his right hand protectively on her other.

“We go home.” Carlisle answered and began to lead her away in the direction of home.

A.J. stared at him as the others caught up with them, “Then what?”

Carlisle looked down and gave his daughter a close-lipped smile as Esme flashed to her other side.

“Let’s just get home first.” he told her.

A.J. nodded and turned her gaze forward before stopping dead in her tracks and craning her neck to look around Carlisle.

“Wait, my stuff!” she called out.

“Don’t worry, we got it.” Rosalie answered as she slugged A.J.’s backpack around her shoulders and Emmett cradled the girl’s boom box.

A.J. nodded again, “Thank you.” she let her gaze fall forward.

The girl bit her tongue in anticipation of what was going to happen. The courage she had gained left her once she heard the wheels of the silver Jeep skid away in the mud. Dread replaced it as the primary emotion in most of the vampires present. Her thoughts were far too jumbled and rapid for her to calm herself down as Carlisle began to pick up speed. One thing that remained clear in her mind as she started to run, was her family staying safe. Though, she had no clue how she'd do it.

84 notes · View notes