Chapter 5

EPOV

We arrived at the mall and tracked the girls to the food court. I couldn’t wait to see my Bella. I could hear Alice and Rosalie’s conversation with Bella. She was asking about our family. We all pulled up chairs to sit around them with me next to Bella.

Alice had just introduced Emmett and me when he jumped up, acting with his usual exuberance. I hadn’t even had a chance to say ‘hello’ to her before Emmett snatched her up in an Emmett style bear hug. She was in tight jeans that showed off her figure to her advantage. What got my attention the most was the short blue top she was wearing. I could tell Emmett was hugging her bare skin and I was jealous. I should be the only one to wrap my arms around her.

“Hey, Bella! I’m sooo glad to meet you. You have no idea,” he laughed. “I really like my new little sis, Edward. She really smells good. She’d make a nice tasty treat. We’re going to have so much fun.”

“Emmett,” she squeaked, “I can’t breathe!”

I growled at Emmett. He was hurting her. “Emmett let her go. Now!”

Her scent hit me as she sat down next to me. She made my mouth water. The venom was pooling so fast I had to swallow a few times to get it under control. She smelled of strawberries and freesias. Good enough to eat. If I had her, I’d never hunger for anything else. I started thinking about what she would taste like. I imagined spreading kisses down her throat, sinking my teeth into her neck, her blood pooling in my mouth, as I would savor her flavor.

“Enough Edward! I’m getting conflicting visions now. Control yourself!”

Alice and Jasper quickly pulled me away from the table until I could gain control of myself. I felt wave after wave of calm hit me.

“Edward, I’m sorry. I should have warned you,” Alice apologized.

“Apologize for what Alice?” Jasper asked.

He was still blocking me from returning to Bella, obviously sensing the conflict still raging inside me. I needed to be with Bella; both because she was my mate and for her blood. It was mine. She was mine. She would belong to me or my monster. At this point, I didn’t know who would win. I could do nothing but continue to growl at them coming between us.

“Edward. Remember last night I told you there would be problems if you chose Bella?”

“I remember. It’s her scent isn’t it?” I asked. “I swear I’ve never smelled someone so sweet.” I growled low in my chest at the memory of her scent, earning another wave of calm washing over me. I let Jasper know I was in control again.

“Edward! You have to stop or you’re going to scare her away,” Alice warned. “But, yes, that’s part of it. You need to know Edward, she’s your singer. That’s why you knew she was your mate last night. Even with her scent masked by the people around her your monster sensed her there.”

“So that’s how he’s going to overcome her natural aversion to us. Her blood will recognize him as well,” Jasper theorized.

“Well, not exactly,” she hedged.

“What else Alice? What are you hiding?” Jasper and I asked.

“Later, I promise. But now you need to do some damage control Edward. She thinks you’re kind of a jerk right now. You don’t want to feed that thought.”

“Later you will tell me everything. You will not keep secrets about my mate from me,” I warned.

“Alice, whatever is going on with her I want to know,” Jasper demanded. “I need to know if she’s any kind of threat to you.”

His monster was close to the surface too, looking for any danger to Alice. I wouldn’t allow him near Bella if he was going to become a threat to her. I growled low in my chest and began to sink into a crouch forgetting where we were. Jasper matched my pose.

Alice punched both of us in the arm to get our attention. She reached up and kissed Jasper’s cheek before glaring at me. “You two can have your pissing contest later.” She turned back to me, “Wouldn’t you rather spend time with Bella or do you want me to take her home so she can go out with that boy?”

“Never,” I growled. “She’s mine. Fine, but we will talk later.”

“Alright. Later, I promise,” Alice sighed. “Jasper, I promise Bella isn’t any kind of threat to us. So can we just sit back down?”

As I sat back down beside her, I had to remind the monster in me that I would have her for eternity, just not as a meal. The monster would get to taste her once when I finally turned her. The trade off of eternity with her by my side was worth the sacrifice of giving up her blood. I had to stop breathing until I could get this feeling under control. I would never forgive myself if I hurt her and lost eternity.

I took her hand in mine unable to resist touching her for the first time and kissed the back of her hand. “Hi Bella, it’s an honor to meet you.”

“God Edward! Could you be more formal? ‘It’s an honor to meet you.’ P-leeasee.” Emmett smirked at me.

She looked into my eyes. I knew last night her eyes were brown. But in the light of day…I could get lost in their depth. There was so much expression in the deep chocolate of her eyes with her long lashes framing her soul. And her face, she was an angel sent from heaven just to save me. I would gladly worship at the altar that is Bella for the rest of my unnatural life.

I was pleased to see I could dazzle her. It would come in handy in my pursuit of her. I decided to tap into her mind to see what she was thinking. I realized I couldn’t hear her mind. I gazed harder into her eyes focusing all my energy onto her thoughts. There was nothing there; complete silence. It was frustrating and a relief at the same time. It was peaceful, quiet.

Jasper leaned his head into Alice’s shoulder, trying to smother a laugh by clearing his throat. “Damn Edward! Turn down the emotions a little would you? You’re starting to make me feel for her.”

I kicked him under the table and frowned at him, then turned back to Bella. “So, how’s the shopping going?” I looked at all the bags on the next table and sighed. I guess this would be the price I paid for having her. I would be spending eternity with a shopaholic just like Jasper and Emmett.

“Don’t worry so much Edward! They’re not hers. She’s very frustrating to shop with. I’m sure I can fix that though.”

Alice spoke up for Bella’s benefit since she saw me frown. “Well, Edward, Rosalie and I are going to have to work on Bella. It turns out she hates shopping. She only purchased two bags, a couple of shirts and shorts. The rest are ours.”

“Feel better? But don’t get too comfortable I’ll have eternity to change that.”

I smiled to myself. I knew for Bella I’d gladly take her shopping everyday of eternity if it made her happy.

Bella was getting a strange look on her face. I noticed her starring at Rosalie and Emmett. He was kissing her neck and whispering things that made me cringe. I was grateful that Bella didn’t have vampire hearing.

Before I could put a stop to it Jasper jumped in. “Uh oh Edward.” He turned to Alice. “Maybe we should explain our family dynamic to Bella before she gets completely weirded out guys. I think she’s fixing to make a run for it.”

“Sorry Edward,” Emmett and Rosalie thought at the same time. “I think we’re going to cut out of here soon and head back to the house.”

“Oh my God, Bella!” Alice looked at her with wide eyes as it dawned on all of us what she must be thinking. “I didn’t even think about what you must be thinking of us. We’re all adopted. Jasper and Rosalie are brother and sister. Edward and Emmett are my brothers. Carlisle and Esme, that’s our mother, adopted us when we were younger. We just all kind of fell for each other.”

Bella looked relieved. I could tell Jasper was helping.

“You’re welcome, Edward,” Jasper thought. “We’re all here for you, man. We want you to have her as much as you do.”

“That’s good to know. I was starting to wonder. I’m glad you all have someone,” she smiled.

“Well, all of us except Edward here.” Alice cut her eyes over to me.

“Enough pussy-footing around. I’m bored with all the chitchat. Let’s get to business, shall we?” Rosalie spoke up, “So Bella, any hot guys around town?”

“Way to be subtle, Rosalie,” Alice mumbled.

“Well,” Bella started. “There are a few.” She seemed to think about her answer. “Alice met them last night at the dance. There’s Eric Yorkie, Tyler Crowley and Mike Newton to name a few. They’re all good friends and on the football team at school. You’ll have to go to the games when school starts up.”

I hated hearing her say she thought Mike Newton was attractive. If she only knew what went on in that boy’s head last night, she’d run straight to me. Maybe I should tell her sometime.

“Don’t you dare! Jasper and I have this covered already. Let it be her decision to get rid of him.”

“Fine. But I mean it, Alice. I don’t want him around her.”

“Don’t worry. He won’t be around long.”

“Well, are you dating any of them?” Rosalie persisted.

“Not really. Lauren has had a crush on Tyler since junior high. You’ll probably run into her at some point this summer or when school starts. She’s very territorial about Tyler even though he doesn’t give her the time of day, so none of the girls will date him. Trust me, she is someone you do not want to cross. She can make your life a living hell. Believe me, I know,” she laughed.I didn’t like hearing that anyone upset my girl but I was glad to hear it kept another male away from Bella. I didn’t know whether to thank this Lauren girl or go after her. I guess I’ll decide when I see what she’s like for myself.

“Eric, I’ve known him forever. After watching him eat pill bugs on the playground as a kid, it just ruins any idea for letting him get that mouth anywhere near me.” She laughed and looked like she was remembering something. We were all laughing with her at that comment. That was two boys I wouldn’t need to worry about. That left one.

“Come on already! I swear it’s like pulling teeth to get her to the point. I want to go home. Emmett and I need some bonding time after this. Especially if you’re bringing her back to the house tonight.” Rosalie persisted, “And what about, what did you say his name was? Mike?” “Maybe that will do it.”

I know Rosalie was only trying to help me, but her attitude was starting to piss me off. Couldn’t she and Emmett go one night without acting like animals?

I could hear Emmett chuckle under his breathe. “Just wait ‘til she’s yours Edward. Then talk to me about my time with Rosalie.”

“Well,” she started, “like I was telling Alice last night. Mike has had a crush on me since the end of freshman year and has been asking me out ever since. I do like him. He’s cute and sweet and funny, but can also make you want to rip your hair out in frustration sometimes.” She seemed to think about her next statement. “I’m thinking of maybe, finally giving in this year and see if it goes anywhere.”

I was about to go hunt this boy down and eliminate the competition. I didn’t realize I was gripping the table so tight until I heard the crack.

Jasper smirked at me. “I got this.”

I saw a look of annoyance cross her face. “Thanks, Jasper. I owe you.”

“Don’t worry Edward. Alice and I are keeping a tab for you when this is over. Alice already knows what she wants. Be afraid. Be very afraid.”

“Bella,” Alice asked, “didn’t you say you wanted to go to the bookstore while we were here?”

She looked up at Alice and then down at her watch. “Yeah, I did. I’m not sure I have time though today. I’m supposed to call Mike to catch a movie tonight.”

I started growling at the thought of her alone with him in a dark theater.

“I’m sure we have plenty of time, Bella. We’re already here so why don’t we head over. There’s a magazine I want that I couldn’t find in Forks and I really, really want to get it.” She pouted, “Please?”

Bella laughed. “Sure, why not. Mike and I can go to a movie another time. I’m sure he and the guys are so wrapped up in video games he won’t even notice.”

Rosalie said she wasn’t interested in the bookstore, so she and Emmett were just going to take the bags and head home in Alice’s car. “Finally! Come on you big teddy bear. Let’s get you home.”

“Yeah, baby! Grrr!” I swear I’m going to destroy every Austin Powers movie he owns.

I mumbled for Emmett to grab Bella’s bags also. Now she will have to come to our house later. That would prevent her from being able to make any plans tonight with that vile boy. I said I’d take everyone else home.

We said goodbye to them. I cringed as Emmett’s thoughts got more graphic the further away they got. Bella explained we’d have to drive to the bookstore since it’s a couple of miles from the mall. She looked around like she was missing something and shrugged. I secretly smiled.

We walked to my car. I loved having her beside me. I couldn’t wait to be able to touch her again. It had stopped raining, but was still cloudy. I opened the car door for her.

“Thanks, Edward,” she said.

I gazed at her and smiled. I got in as Alice and Jasper got in the back. She pointed out a couple shops to Alice for them to come back another day. This was good. It meant she was planning on spending more time with my sisters.

“That’s usually where everyone shops for more formal dresses,” she was explaining. “We have a couple of dances at school during the year including prom.”

I daydreamed of dancing with Bella. Holding her in my arms and spinning her around the floor while she saw only me.

We arrived at the bookstore and I opened the car door for her. I then opened the door to the store for her. She seemed to appreciate the gesture. I’m sure Mike isn’t as thoughtful.

I was hit with her scent again as she brushed by me into the store. I had to stop breathing again. I realized this was going to be a little more difficult than I first thought. I’d need to hunt more often, especially before I spent time with her.

Alice and Jasper headed to the magazines. “Edward, Jasper and I are going to leave so you have some time alone to visit. I’ll be watching if you need me.”

I looked down at my angel. “So what section did you want to look in, Bella?” This should help me figure her out more since I can’t rely on my ability to peg her personality.

“I really like the classics. I need a new copy of Romeo and Juliet,” she said. “My copy has finally fallen apart. I also want to get Pride and Prejudice.”

I knew Alice and Jasper were listening across the store. I heard Jasper laugh. “Maybe I can interest her in history also. Then we’d have stuff to talk about also.”

I was jealous at the idea of Bella spending time with any male other than myself.

“She is going to be my sister also. You’ll have eternity with her. You can share. I share Alice with you for your big debates.”

He had a point there. Alice and I are really close. I guess I could learn to share, after I have her to myself for a few decades.

“I like the classics as well,” I said. “However, I will never understand Romeo and Juliet. You do know they die in the end don’t you?” I rolled my eyes. Really, Romeo and Juliet? She can do better than that nonsense.

She glared up at me and put her hands on her hips. She’s even beautiful when she’s angry. Wait, she’s angry with me. What did I do?

“Yes, obviously, I know they die,” she stated. “I did say I need a new copy.” She was really getting angry.

“Alice? A little help would be nice right about now!”

Jasper and Alice showed up quickly. Jasper was calming her down. I messed up. Note to self, don’t question Bella’s choice in books ever again. I frantically was trying to figure out how to fix this.

“So Bella, did you find what you were looking for?” Alice asked. “Nice going idiot.”

“No, not yet. Your brother was just explaining my lack of taste in books.” She was glaring at me again.

“I’m sorry. Honestly, I didn’t mean anything by it Bella. Please don’t be mad.” I decided a little dazzling might help. Yeah, it did.

“It’s fine, Edward.” She reached for a second copy of Romeo and Juliet off the shelf and handed it to me. “This is how you can make it up to me,” she grinned up at me. “You’re going to read it with me and then we’ll discuss the book together. Deal?”

This was better than anything I could have dreamed. She was creating an opportunity for us to continue spending time together, just the two of us. I knew some books I’d like her to read as well. I began to picture our life together sitting in Carlisle’s library or in what would become our room, reading and discussing literature while listening to music. I smiled at her, pulling out all the stops. “Deal.”

Alice was having a problem keeping her feet on the ground. “This is perfect, Edward! I can see the two of you discussing books in your room. You look so happy!”

She picked up a couple of other books and a CD that Alice told her she could buy for her to make up for the blouse last night, her anger at me forgotten. We walked to the register to pay. She set her stuff down and was getting out her wallet. I snatched her books up handing them to the cashier. No way she was paying for anything ever again if I have anything to say about it.

“Edward, give me my books.”

“Nope. I’m buying. It’s the least I can do for upsetting you earlier.” I tried to hand my credit card to the cashier, but he wasn’t paying any attention to me. His eyes and thoughts were focused on my Bella!

I started growling. I’m starting to think I’m going to need to fight the entire human male population for her.

He looked like he was probably in college. Just great! Isn’t that what all girls dream of, an older man? Well, I’m 117. How’s that for older?

“Hey, beautiful. I’m Josh. Do you live around here?” He was flirting with her! “Baby! You are just too fine for words. I’m definitely going to have to get your number. Who knew a bookworm could be so fine? I thought this job was going to be nothing but nerds. I need to be sure to work every chance I can just for the opportunity to help you out.”

“Hi. No, I live over in Forks,” she answered him.

I could tell she was embarrassed. She was blushing. It heated the blood in her cheeks, which just made her scent even more potent to me. I needed to get her out of here before I lost control. Whether it was going to be with the monster that was thirsting for her blood or the monster that wanted to rip this boy to shreds I wasn’t sure.

“Edward, calm down! I’m afraid I’m going to have to pull you out of here. Bella’s getting stressed out.” Jasper had his hand on my shoulder bombarding me with waves of calm. It wasn’t working.

I stuck my credit card in the guy’s face. “Excuse me! Do you mind taking care of this or do I need to call the manager?”

He turned to look at me smirking and rolling his eyes. “Whatever, dude. Is she yours?” “There’s no way she’s with this guy and if she is, I can certainly snatch her away him.”

I was boiling now. I could feel Jasper trying desperately to calm me down. I needed all the help I could get not to tear through the counter to get this punk.

Bella looked like she was going to say something to him. I didn’t want to hear her say she wasn’t mine. She was mine even if she wasn’t aware of it yet. “Alice, get her out of here now!”

“Come on Bella. Let’s wait outside. Here, Jasper.” She said handing him her magazines as she pulled Bella out the door. “Calm down Edward! You’re starting to scare Bella!”

I waited until they were both outside. Jasper was still trying desperately to calm me down. I felt guilty when Alice said I was scaring Bella. I don’t want her afraid of me. I’d never hurt her.

I stared intently at the insignificant boy in front of me, letting my true nature shine through. “I don’t want to you think of or speak to my Bella with anything less than total respect ever again. In fact if she ever comes in here again you will run the other direction. Do I make myself clear?”

His eyes got big and he put his hands up like he would ward me off. I grabbed the receipt and Bella’s bag and walked outside to her and Alice. I pinched the bridge of my nose as I was finally starting to calm down some.

“What was that about?” Bella asked me looking back at Josh through the window. I noticed he took my words to heart and was making a point not to look at her.

“Nothing,” I growled at her, “just teaching some manners. Let’s go okay?”

I really just wanted to get away from here. I needed to get control again. I placed my hand on the small of her back to steer her toward the car. I couldn’t resist slipping my thumb up under her shirt to touch bare skin. Touching her calmed me as I knew it would. She didn’t even know yet how much control she had over my every thought or action. From the moment I chose her, every step I made was with Bella in mind; her health, her comfort, her feelings. And how to get her to accept my claim. I would talk with Alice more later tonight.

I heard Alice giggle. “You’re fine Edward. She likes it. Doesn’t she Jasper?”

“That’s all you, Brother.”

I opened the car door for her and handed her the bag. Everyone got in and I steered us home. I was starting to relax remembering what Bella’s skin felt like under my hand. I knew her other bags were at our house and she’d have to come home with me to get them. That also meant I would be driving her home later, just the two of us. I was looking forward to the evening.

Chapter 4

BPOV

I was cleaning up from breakfast when I heard my phone ring. I looked at the caller ID. It was Alice. “Hi Alice. How are you this morning?”

“Hi Bella, I’m fine. I was calling to see what time you wanted to go today? If you don’t mind, my sister Rosalie would like to go also.”

“Sure Alice. That would be great. I’d love to meet her also,” I said. “Tell me where you live and I’ll come pick you both up.”

I heard someone laughing in the background when she said, “That’s okay. Our home is out of town and it’s easy to miss the drive if you don’t know to look for it, especially in this rain. I just got my car from storage so I need to drive it. It’ll be easier for us to pick you up.”

I gave Alice my address and she told me she’d be here in an hour. I left a note on the table for Charlie telling him where I went and ran upstairs to get ready. After I got out of the shower and brushed my teeth, I dressed comfortably in a navy top with jeans and boots. I brushed my hair out and left it down. I heard a horn honk out front so grabbed my bag and went down.

After I locked the front door, I turned and missed the step off the porch and almost fell on my face, I stopped so quickly with my mouth hanging open. Alice and her sister were in my driveway sitting in a yellow Porsche waiting for me. “Hi, Alice. Wow, I love your car!” Rosalie got out of the passenger side and pulled the seat up for me to climb in the back.

“Thanks, Bella,” Alice smiled. “This is my sister, Rosalie. Rosalie, this is Bella.”

“Hi Rosalie, it’s nice to meet you.”

She turned to me and gave me an appraising look before smiling. “Hi, Bella. Likewise.”

Alice distracted me by asking, “Well, where to?”

“Why don’t we go to Port Angeles first since it’s a bit of a drive and I can show you the hangouts on the way?

Rosalie turned and sniffed the air in front of me. “I like your perfume Bella. What’s it called?”

I shrugged my shoulders. “Just soap. I don’t wear perfume.”

“None?” Alice asked.

“Nope. It’s all me.” I answered. “Why, do I stink?” I tucked my head to sniff myself. I didn’t think I stunk. I just took a shower this morning.

Alice and Rosalie exchanged a look between them.

“No, you’re fine,” Rosalie said staring at Alice. She turned to give me a reassuring smile before turning back to look out the front window.

The silence following became more than a little awkward as we drove out of town. I quietly pointed out several teen hangouts, wishing now I could find a way to politely have them drop me off and just go back home. I decided they obviously didn’t like me and we wouldn’t be friends after all. I swallowed the lump forming in my throat. I didn’t know why I wanted to cry. It’s not like I was losing a close friend or anything. I’d just thought maybe…

I braced myself as Alice suddenly swung the car into the nearest parking lot and stopped her car. I guess I was getting out after all. I cleared my throat.

“It’s okay, Alice. You can let me out here and I’ll just pay you for the shirt.” I scooted forward in the seat waiting for Rosalie to let me out of the car.

“Oh no!” Alice exclaimed as she turned to me. “Please, forgive us if we made you uncomfortable. I promise we didn’t mean anything bad. Rosalie and I really do want to be your friend, if you’ll let us.” She turned to Rosalie for confirmation.

“Don’t we?”

Rosalie reached back and squeezed my hand. I was surprised; her hand was cold like Alice’s hand last night. “Bella, I’m sorry if I was rude. Trust me we do want to be friends.”

I smiled timidly in return. “I’d really like that too.”

Alice beamed brightly at me. “I promise we’re going to be as close as sisters. You’ll see.”

Rosalie seemed to sigh in relief as Alice pulled back out onto the road. She glanced at Alice who mumbled something along the lines of something being too close.
Rosalie turned to me and smiled, “So tell us about yourself.”

“There’s not much to tell. I’m pretty boring really. I’ve lived in Forks most my life with my dad, Charlie. My dad is the chief of police. My mom lives in Florida with her new husband, Phil. He plays minor league baseball. I’m vertically challenged. I can trip over air on a flat surface,” I laughed.

Alice & Rosalie laughed at that last comment. “Come on you can’t be that bad.”
I laughed back at them, “Wanna bet? You should see my chart at the hospital. I’m on a first name basis with most of the ER staff. I think I’m even on the hospital’s Christmas card list.”

Alice looked back in the rearview mirror at me, “Well if you’re really that bad, you’ll probably end up being treated by our dad, Carlisle Cullen at some point. He’s the new doctor at the hospital.”

“Well, I’m sure I’ll meet him then,” I replied.

We were pulling into the mall parking lot by this time. We got out and walked inside. I turned to them. “Well where do you want to start? Remember I owe you a new shirt Alice.”

Alice and Rosalie suggested we just start at one end and work across the mall. I thought they meant window shop. I had no idea they meant go into every store and shop.

Alice wouldn’t let me buy her a new shirt, but did agree to let me buy a new CD later when I went to the bookstore. When I saw the price tags on what she was buying I was secretly relieved. Her shirt would have cost me almost a month’s pay from my part-time job.

I did pick up a couple of new shirts and some shorts for myself. Alice kept trying to get me to try things on, but I really don’t care about fashion as long as it’s comfortable and I don’t look homeless.

We’d been in the mall for a few hours and I was getting hungry. They didn’t look like they would be ready to stop anytime soon. My stomach was starting to growl a little. I knew it was going to get embarrassing soon.

Alice turned to me, “Bella, why don’t we head to the food court. I’m ready to sit down for a while. How ‘bout you?”

I swear it was like she read my mind. “That sounds good. I am a little hungry.”

We found two tables together so we could have a place to put all their bags plus my two and sit down. I bought a slice of pizza and bottled water. Alice and Rosalie said they weren’t that hungry so they just got an order of curly fries to split and a couple of cokes.

As I took a drink I said laughing, “So you know my life story. Tell me about your family.”

As I said this, three of the most gorgeous guys walked up to our table. They looked like they just stepped out of a magazine ad. I recognized them from the dance as Alice and Rosalie’s brothers. They came over and pulled up chairs to sit down around us. The big one leaned into Rosalie and kissed her cheek, “Hey girls.” The blonde guy did the same to Alice. I raised my eyebrows at that. The other one sat down next to me. We were squeezed in pretty tight since it was a small table.
Alice smiled at the blonde next to her and said, “Bella, these are my brothers. This fine man here is Jasper.”

“Hi, Bella nice to meet you,” Jasper said.

She extended her hand toward the big guy next to Rosalie, “That’s Emmett and next to you is Edward.”

Emmett jumped up from the table and ran over pulling me up out of my seat to hug me.

“Hey, Bella! I’m sooo glad to meet you. You have no idea.” He was laughing.

“Emmett,” I squeaked “I can’t breathe!”

I could have sworn I heard a growl coming from Edward. “Emmett let her go,” Edward frowned. “Now!”

I looked at Edward in shock at his attitude. He certainly wasn’t very friendly. I sat down hard in my seat and blew out my breath. My chest hurt from Emmett’s bear hug. Alice jumped up from her seat and pulled Edward away from the table just as he took a deep breath and was turning toward me.

“Edward, I need your help getting something,” she said quickly.

Edward whipped his head back to stare at me. His eyes seemed to darken and he was resisting Alice’s pull. Jasper cleared his throat and stood jogging around the table toward Alice and Edward. “I’ll help also.” His tone was a little scary.
I turned in confusion back to Emmett and Rosalie.

Emmett sat back down by Rosalie. He shrugged “Sorry, Bella. My bad. I forget how breakable you can be.” Rosalie smacked him on the back of the head and told him to hush.

“Um, is he okay?” I asked, meaning Edward’s behavior.

Emmett shrugged, “Oh yeah. Edward’s fine, just a little intense sometimes. You’ll get used to his behavior. I think you just took him by surprise.”

“Surprise? Me? What do you mean?” I asked.

Emmett got a goofy grin on his face. “He thinks you’re H-A-W-T, hawt.”

I blushed in embarrassment just as Jasper, Alice and Edward sat back down. Edward slid into the seat beside me and put one arm around the back of my chair and took my hand in his other. He brought my hand to his lips and kissed the back of it while staring intently into my eyes.

“Hi Bella, it’s an honor to meet you.”

His voice was like dark chocolate; smooth, rich, deep, silky. There just wasn’t a single word to describe the way it washed over me. I stared, looking into his eyes. They looked like gold shining back at me. I had the weirdest feeling in my chest. I wasn’t sure what to make of it but it was making me nervous. I broke away from his gaze to look down at the table and grabbed my water blushing. “It’s nice to meet you also,” I whispered.

Jasper leaned his head into Alice’s shoulder and seemed to be trying to smother a laugh by clearing his throat. Edward tensed up all of a sudden. Jasper jumped like someone kicked him under the table.

Edward frowned at Jasper and then turned to me. “So, how’s the shopping going?” He looked past me at all the bags on the next table. He seemed to be unhappy surveying the stack and the store logos displayed on the outside of the bags.

Alice piped up, “Well, Edward, Rosalie and I are going to have to work on Bella. It turns out she hates shopping. She only purchased two bags worth, a couple of shirts and shorts. The rest are ours.”

I don’t know why she felt the need to explain my purchases to Edward. However, it did seem to clear his frown for whatever reason.

I noticed Emmett was kissing on Rosalie’s neck. This was getting a little creepy. I really wasn’t sure what to make of their family any longer. I was starting to rethink getting any deeper into a friendship with them. This just wasn’t right. I mean, gross!

Jasper looked at Alice. “Maybe we should explain our family dynamic to Bella before she gets completely weirded out, guys. I think she’s fixing to make a run for it.”

Alice looked at me in horror. “Oh my God, Bella! I didn’t even think about what you must be thinking of us. We’re all adopted. Jasper and Rosalie are brother and sister. Edward and Emmett are my brothers. Carlisle and Esme, that’s our mother, adopted us when we were younger. We just all kind of fell for each other.”

I felt so much relief at that. It was like a sense of calm just washed over me and I no longer cared. “Oh, that’s good to know. I was starting to wonder. I’m glad you all have someone.”

“Well, all of us except Edward here.” Alice seemed to be implying something with that statement.

Rosalie spoke up, “So Bella, any hot guys around town?”

Everyone seemed really interested in what I was going to say next. It was making me uneasy. I just don’t know what they are waiting for. “Well there are a few. Alice met them last night at the dance. There’s Eric Yorkie, Tyler Crowley and Mike Newton to name a few. They’re all good friends and on the football team at school. You’ll have to go to the games when school starts up.”

“Well, are you dating any of them?” she persisted.

“Not really. Lauren has had a crush on Tyler since junior high. You’ll probably run into her at some point this summer or when school starts. She’s very territorial about Tyler even though he doesn’t give her the time of day, so none of the girls will date him. Trust me, she is someone you do not want to cross. She can make your life a living hell. Believe me, I know,” I laughed.

“Eric, I’ve known him forever. After watching him eat pill bugs on the playground as a kid, it just ruins any idea for letting him get that mouth anywhere near me.” I laughed at the memory that brought up.

Everyone was laughing at that.

Rosalie persisted, “And what about, what did you say his name was? Mike?”

“Well, like I was telling Alice last night. Mike has had a crush on me since the end of freshman year and has been asking me out ever since. I do like him. He’s cute and sweet and funny, but can also make you want to rip your hair out in frustration sometimes. I’m thinking of maybe, finally giving in this year and see if it goes anywhere.”

Everyone seemed to be in thought when I finished. I noticed Edward’s hand was gripping the edge of the table a little tightly.

I thought about Mike and why I wanted to give dating him a shot. He was everything I said he was; he was really cute, sweet, funny, nicely built, annoying, full of his own self-importance, arrogant, a snob… Why did I want to date him? He really is kind of a jerk now that I think about it. Suddenly I wasn’t so sure dating Mike would be such a good idea after all.

I shook myself from my musings to realize everyone was staring at me. I blushed and quickly took another drink of my water, mumbling an apology to the table in general. I don’t know what I was apologizing for, but whatever. I felt a gentle pull on my hair and realized Edward still had his arm on the back of my chair and was playing with my hair. I looked at him from out of the corner of my eye trying unsuccessfully to be discreet. He was staring at me. He smiled the most dazzling crooked smile at me and continued to play with my hair.

“Hello again,” he said.

“Hi,” I answered shyly. I felt my heart flutter. Edward really was gorgeous. He was even better looking than Mike and I’d always thought Mike was the cutest guy in Forks. Of course, Edward didn’t live here before now. I got lost in eyes again. My fingers itched to run through his hair. I looked down quickly, stopping for just a brief moment to stare at his lips and wonder what it would feel like to be kissed by him. Would he be as good of a kisser as Mike? He looked like someone who would definitely know what he was doing.

“Bella,” Alice interrupted my daydreams, “didn’t you say you wanted to go to the bookstore while we were here?”

I shook off the feeling and looked up at her. “Yeah, I did.” I glanced at my watch.

“I’m not sure I have time though today. I’m supposed to call Mike to catch a movie
tonight.” I swear I kept hearing growling coming from somewhere.

“I’m sure we have plenty of time, Bella. We’re already here so why don’t we head over. There’s a magazine I want that I couldn’t find in Forks and I really, really want to get it.” She pouted at me, “Please?”

I laughed at that. “Sure, why not. Mike and I can go to a movie another time. I’m sure he and the guys are so wrapped up in video games he won’t even notice.”
Rosalie said she wasn’t interested in the bookstore so she and Emmett were just going to take the bags and head home in Alice’s car. Edward said he’d give the rest of us a ride home in his.

We all said goodbye to them. I told Edward we’d have to drive to the bookstore since it’s a couple of miles from the mall. I went to grab my bags, but realized Emmett must have grabbed them also when they left. Oh well I’ll need to remember to pick them up on the way home then.

We walked out to where Edward had parked. It had stopped raining, but was still cloudy. Edward opened the passenger door for me and I got in.

“Thanks, Edward,” I said.

He smiled the most amazing crooked smile at me. I swear I couldn’t think a single thought if my life depended on it. He really is by far the most gorgeous man I’ve ever seen. He beats Mike, hands down.

He got in as Alice and Jasper got in the back. I pointed out a couple of nice dress shops that were on the way to the bookstore that Alice and Rosalie might like coming back to one day.

“That’s usually where everyone shops for more formal dresses. We have a couple of dances at school during the year, including prom.”

We arrived at the bookstore and Edward opened the car door for me to get out. As we walked up to the store he opened the door for me again. He really was a gentleman. He just didn’t seem to talk much.

Alice and Jasper headed to the magazines. Edward looked down at me. “So what section did you want to look in, Bella?”

“I really like the classics. I need a new copy of Romeo and Juliet,” I said. “My copy has finally fallen apart. I also want to get Pride and Prejudice.”

“I like the classics as well. However, I will never understand Romeo and Juliet. You do know they die in the end, don’t you?” He rolled his eyes at me.

I looked up at him and put my hands on my hips. “Yes, obviously, I know they die. I did say I need a new copy,” I scowled. How dare he question my taste in books? What’s it to him anyway? I swear he doesn’t say much but when he does it’s annoying.
Jasper and Alice showed up at that moment. I felt a little more relaxed all of a sudden and my annoyance with Edward was fading.

“So Bella, did you find what you were looking for?” Alice asked, frowning at Edward.
“No, not yet. Your brother was just explaining my lack of taste in books.” I glared at him again.

“I’m sorry. Honestly, I didn’t mean anything by it, Bella. Please don’t be mad.” He smiled that crooked smile again and stared intently into my eyes. How does he do that? Just as I decide I really don’t like him, he dazzles me.

“Its fine, Edward.” I pulled another copy of Romeo and Juliet off the shelf and handed it to him. “This is how you can make it up to me.” I grinned at him. “You’re going to read it with me and then we’ll discuss the book together. Deal?”

I swear I didn’t think his smile could get anymore brilliant. “Deal.”

Alice looked like she was having a problem keeping her feet on the ground. She looked like she wanted to start jumping up and down. I wonder if there was too much caffeine in her drink at lunch. Not that I ever saw her actually drink any of it.
I picked up a couple of other books to read and the CD that Alice wanted and we walked to the register to pay. I set my stuff down to get out my wallet when Edward snatched them up handing them to the cashier. “Edward, give me my books.”

“Nope. I’m buying. It’s the least I can do for upsetting you earlier,” he said, handing his credit card to the cashier.

The cashier was looking at me, not paying any attention to Edward. He was tall with brown curly hair and blue eyes. He was kind of cute, but nowhere near as cute as Edward. He looked a few years older than me. “Hey, beautiful. I’m Josh. Do you live around here?”

Where was that growling coming from? I was starting to think I was going nuts. “Hi,” I answered, blushing. I was really embarrassed with Edward, Alice and Jasper standing there. “No, I live over in Forks.”

Edward stuck his credit card in the guy’s face. “Excuse me! Do you mind taking care of this or do I need to call the manager?”

Josh turned back to Edward rolling his eyes. “Whatever, dude. Is she yours?” He smirked.

Ok, now I was pissed. I don’t belong to anyone, least of all Edward. Edward looked like he wanted to rip the guy apart. I raised my eyebrow at Josh. I opened my mouth to let him have it when Alice pulled me away.

“Come on, Bella. Let’s wait outside. Here, Jasper,” she said handing him her magazines as she pulled me out the door.

We went and stood on the sidewalk. I was looking in the window as Edward finished paying. I saw him say something to Josh and Josh’s eyes got big and he put his hands up to Edward. I watched as Edward turned to walk outside, pinching the bridge of his nose.

“What was that about?” I asked looking back at Josh who was making a point of not looking at me.

“Nothing,” Edward growled at me “just teaching him some manners. Let’s go okay?” He moved his hand to the small of my back and steered me toward the car.

I felt Edward’s thumb brush the bare skin on my lower back under my shirt hem. His hand was so cool and I was starting to get a tingly feeling in my stomach. Usually I wouldn’t allow something like this with someone I barely know but I had to admit, I really liked it.

I heard Alice giggle behind me as she hugged Jasper.

Edward opened the car door for me to get in and handed me my bag. Everyone got in and he steered us back towards Forks. I remembered my bags went home with Emmett & Rosalie. I’d need to be sure and let him know I needed to pick them up, but he was frowning again so I didn’t want to ask right now. Maybe later if he relaxed a little.

Chapter 3

E POV

I watched my Bella leave with that human boy. I felt Emmett’s hands pin my shoulders in a death grip to keep me from stopping them. My growls were getting steadily louder the further she walked away from me. That boy had his hand wrapped possessively around her waist as he led her down the street. I wanted to rip it from his body and beat him with it. She wasn’t his to touch, she was mine.

“Edward, people are beginning to stare. You need to keep it under control,” Rosalie warned. “Emmett, drag his ass out of here and take him hunting or something. I’m sure there’s a rock formation somewhere around here he could crush that no one would notice was missing.” She gave me an evil smirk. “I’m sure Bella and Mike,” she stressed his name to me, “are only going somewhere private to make out.”

I whipped my head around at her, snarling, and was suddenly staring up at my family from the ground, Emmett’s foot planted firmly on my neck. I held my hands up in a sign of surrender so he’d let me up. He yanked me to my feet a little harder than necessary as a further warning.

“I know you’re feeling the effects of finding your mate tonight, Edward. But I’m warning you,” he growled low and menacingly at me, “do not snarl at my Rosie again.” His serious demeanor changed to his normal goofy grin. “I doubt you’d make any headway with your Bella without that pretty boy face of yours.”

I was sure the sudden change in atmosphere was thanks to Jasper coming toward us as quickly as humanly possible with Alice tucked safely beneath his arm. She must have seen our altercation was about to escalate out of control.

“Guys, it’s going to be hard for Edward to pursue Bella if we have to move tonight,” Alice warned quietly.

“I’m sorry, Emmett,” I said, grasping his hand in a handshake truce. I looked at my sister, careful to keep my expression non-threatening. “But please keep your wife under control. Until Bella accepts my claim, I don’t want to hear anymore comments about her being with another male.”

My sister had the good sense to look guilty before shaking it off. She wasn’t one to ever admit she was wrong. She shrugged her shoulders at me. “Geesh Edward, learn to take a joke.” She turned her bored expression to her husband, tossing her hair back. “Emmett, I want to go home now. There’s no reason to stay now that she’s gone and I’m bored.”

***

A POV

We discussed Bella with Carlisle and Esme when we arrived back at the house. We decided that Rosalie and I would go with Bella tomorrow to get “operation Bella” underway. Edward was concerned about Mike wanting to date her and didn’t want to take any chances so the guys would meet us later in town.

“Jasper, what emotions did you feel coming from them?” I asked. We were finishing our hunt and running back to the house.

“Well, the guy really does like her. His lust for her was through the roof. I’d say it’s a close second to what I felt coming from Edward when you were talking to her. But not close to what I feel for you.” He chuckled and squeezed my hand.

I swear I love this man.

“What about Bella?”

“She feels very friendly toward him, but a lot of frustration also. There is some desire there, but it hasn’t grown yet. I think Edward may have to work at this a little.”

“Did you feel anything when she was looking at Edward?” After all, this was the key, I knew.

“Now that’s what was interesting. She felt intimidated when he looked at her, but there was desire also.” He frowned a little in thought. “Alice, I just don’t see how he’s going to overcome a human’s natural instinct to fear us, to ever get her to fall in love with him.”

“Well, my love, that’s where you and I come in.” I stroked his cheek and laughed. “I will be able to tell if she gets any closer to Mike, or anyone else, and stop it. You are going to use your wonderful gift and do a little manipulating when it’s needed.”

“What do you mean? If we manipulate her into loving him then it won’t last. That’ll just be worse for Edward than if he never found anyone.”

I shook my head at Jasper. “No, no we’re not going to force her to love him. That’s not what I mean. Edward would be devastated if she doesn’t truly love him. I love Edward and I want him to be as happy as the rest of us. We need a complete family and this includes Bella.

“Consider your gift more of a nudge or roadblock when needed. If she’s around Edward and feels intimidated or afraid, help her get past it. A little bit of desire won’t hurt in the beginning just to get things rolling. She and Edward can take it from there. And when she’s with Mike or someone is talking about him to her, then keep that annoyance factor as high as it is now so it overrides any chance of her feelings becoming more.”

He pulled me into a hug kissing the top of my head. “You really are a little minx, aren’t you? I’m so glad I know never to bet against you. Edward better appreciate everything we’re doing to help him with this.”

I laughed and kissed him back. “Oh, he will.” I tapped the side of my head and we continued back to the house.

***

EPOV

I heard Alice and Rosalie leave in her car to get Bella. The plan was for Jasper, Emmett, and I to run into them this afternoon at the mall and convince her to go to spend the afternoon with me and come back to the house for the evening. This would prevent her from spending time with that boy, Mike, today. According to Alice, we weren’t going to be able to stop every interaction between them, but I planned to do everything in my power to stop him from touching her ever again. I wanted to make my claim known and have her accept it immediately.

Carlisle reminded me this is the way it works in our world only. The human world works differently. He reminded me that I couldn’t treat Bella like a vampire and just claim her. It wasn’t that simple. I would have to let her get to know me, decide she likes me, and then love me. Then and only then I could make her my mate. He warned me that she had free will and not to forget it. If she didn’t accept my claim then I was to walk away and we’d move on somewhere else.

I wouldn’t let that happen. I knew she was for me. Alice saw it and no one bet against Alice. I just had to do the footwork to make the vision come true. This was the part that was so frustrating. Alice was still refusing to tell me her visions. She was hiding something from me about Bella. Whatever it was, it wouldn’t stop me from gaining her love and commitment. I was confident I could win her love. I just needed to be my usual charming self and dazzle her.

I was sitting in my room listening to classical music with my eyes closed. I had already showered and gotten dressed from my hunt. I heard Emmett and Jasper playing a video game downstairs. I couldn’t wait until I’d get to see her again and actually talk to her. I was bothered last night that I couldn’t hear her mind when she was talking to Alice. I didn’t know what to make of that so I’d need to focus more clearly today. I’d certainly heard that punk’s thoughts when he was thinking about Bella. It was hard not to go over and teach him some manners last night. She may not be mine yet, but I knew she would be. I hadn’t even spoken to her yet and I already felt an attraction toward her that I haven’t felt toward anyone in 100 years.

I opened my eyes and looked at my watch. It was about time to leave. I could feel the anticipation building in me.

Jasper called from downstairs. “Relax, Edward. You’ll see her soon.”

Emmett started laughing. “Eddie Boy has it bad already.”

I just got up and headed downstairs. “Emmett, I hate that name. I’ve been telling you that for over 50 years. When do you think you’ll remember?”

“Probably not for at least another 150 years, but feel free to keep reminding me. Eddie.”

I felt the waves of calm coming from Jasper. “Edward, you can take the time now to chase Emmett and beat him up, or we can go see Bella. Your choice.”

“Fine. Emmett, remind me to get you later.”

Esme called from the garden as we headed to my Volvo to leave. “You boys behave. Edward, I can’t wait to meet your Bella this evening. I’ll be sure to get some snacks from the store for her.”
“Thanks, Esme. We’ll see you later.” We drove out of the drive heading to Port Angeles. Of course, having lived here before, I knew where the mall had been built. I thought over Esme’s comment ‘My Bella.’

I smiled; I liked the sound of that.

Chapter 2

I don’t own Twilight. Big surprise there.

Alice silently apprised the beautiful angel who had captured my attention. She had been blocking me since that evening when I made my announcement. I knew she was keeping secrets from me. She avoided being anywhere near me for any length of time. If she had to be, then Jasper was with her. Jasper would spend the entire time messing around with my emotions, between giddiness, sorrow, fear, joy, depression and anything else he could throw in, so that I wouldn’t be able to focus on her mind. Jasper was her mate and as such protected Alice from any threat including my unwelcome snooping into her mind.

This was the relationship I wanted. Male vampires are fiercely protective of their mates. This instinct only intensifies over time. This is the reason nomads become violent. Without a mate to give direction and focus, the instinct short circuits and violence replaces protection. My problem was I had this same fierce need but no one to protect. My father and brothers allowed me to act as a surrogate protector to their wives when they went hunting alone. It wasn’t often as their own natural instinct demanded they keep their mates close, but it was done to keep me from going insane.

I caught the twinkle in my sister’s eye. I looked to Jasper first to be certain he wasn’t going to attack my emotions. At seeing the smirk directed at me I knew I was safe for the moment and delved into her mind to hear her thoughts. I caught a quick glimpse of a meadow before she began singing an old Spice Girl’s song in Greek. Now that was just wrong

“Alice,” I growled in frustration. What did a meadow have to do with anything? I hadn’t even seen anyone in the picture.

“Edward,” Jasper warned as he moved between Alice and me. “Do you really want to start crying in front of all these humans?”

“I didn’t mean anything by it Jasper,” I reassured him, holding my hands up in a sign of surrender. “You know I wouldn’t hurt her, but she’s got to let me see something. Anything!” I looked down at my sister to see her still staring at my angel. “Please Alice. Show me something.”

She looked up at me before leaning into Jasper, who wrapped his arms around her. “Edward, I could give you all the answers. You’re right. I do know something, but that’s not how it’s going to work this time. I let you see everything before when you searched for your mate within our kind and as soon as you saw a flaw you didn’t like, you walked away. You’re going to have to decide if she’s the one you want without your personal crystal ball. That means getting to know her the old fashioned way.”

I sighed and pinched the bridge of my nose in frustration. “Well can you tell me at least if she’s the one and then I promise to work to get to know her first?”

She and Jasper both laughed at me before she answered. Her face lost all humor and she looked at me with complete seriousness. “Only you can decide if she’s your mate Edward. I will only tell you that if she’s the one, don’t expect it to be easy. Choosing a human wasn’t going to be easy anyway since she doesn’t know about our kind, but with her there are some external influences that are going to make your quest more difficult. In the past I knew none of the others were your true mate-“
I interrupted, “Then why did you let me spend the last 80 years going through the motions if none of them were my mate!” I was becoming frustrated and angry with her, which wasn’t such a good idea if Jasper’s growls were any indication.

“Jasper it’s okay.” Alice calmed him. She rose up on her toes to kiss him reassuringly before turning back to me. “Edward, think about it for a moment,” she smirked. “She’s seventeen. She wasn’t alive 80 years ago. You needed something to keep you busy and you had to come to the point of making this decision for yourself. What would you have said even a year ago if I told you that your true mate was human?”

I opened my mouth to respond and shut it again at her raised eyebrow. “Alright. You have a point,” I conceded.

“Of course I do. I’m always right, you should know that by now,” she smirked. Then she got serious again. “Carlisle said for you to be absolutely sure so you need to decide if you want to pursue her or move on,” she continued. “This is her life, her eternity you’re talking about. So, are you sure she’s the one?”

I looked again at my angel. She was talking with her group of friends completely unaware that her life was about to change. I knew. I didn’t need Alice’s visions.

This human - I didn’t even know her name yet, was my mate. I knew it to the depth of my soul, such as it is. Now I would just need to work to convince her. That was the tricky part. I turned back to Alice and Jasper and smiled.

“I’m certain. She’s my mate,” I stated. “Now, how do I get her?” I asked just as Emmett and Rosalie walked up.

“Edward, if you don’t know how to get a girl then maybe you should have Carlisle give you the birds and bees talk,” Emmett said.

“Shut it Emmett,” I growled. “I know how to get a girl in general. But how do I get a human girl? She’s not going to understand our world or my need for her. I can’t walk up and just announce that I choose her to become my mate and take her home. It’s a little more complicated than that.”

It was finally decided that Alice would be the best to try and approach her to learn more about her. Out of all of us, she was the least intimidating.

“Alice, don’t be obvious about it. Just see what you can find out. Is she with that boy or not? Has he claimed her as his mate? If so, is she committed to him or can he be removed easily? I need to know if he’s going to be a problem or not.”
I could already feel my instinct kicking in. I could feel the tightening in my stomach and the narrowing of my eyes taking in this pathetic human boy touching my mate. I heard the growl surface from within before being distracted by a hard punch against my shoulder from Emmett just as a wave of calmness hit me from Jasper.

“Knock it off Edward,” Emmett warned. “You really don’t want to start something right now. Hell, she doesn’t even know you exist.” He paused glancing toward my angel, who was looking my direction again. “Well, I take that back. Maybe she does know you exist. But,” he stressed, “you don’t even know her name yet. She isn’t aware of your claim. So chill.”

“Edward, I’m warning you,” Rosalie finally decided to make her thoughts known. “Don’t you dare attack or hurt that boy. You screw this up and make me move again right after I unpacked and I’ll hurt you myself. I told you I don’t like this.”

I glared at my sister in response, which only earned me another punch from Emmett. “Damn it Emmett! Stop with the punches or meet me in the woods later. I’m not going to hurt anyone. Geesh, have a little faith.”

“Edward,” Alice laughed as she skipped away, “I don’t think teenagers call them mates. I think they prefer boyfriend & girlfriend.” She skipped off before I could say anything else.

Jasper chuckled at me. “You know they’re just messing with you don’t you? But really Edward, lighten up already.”

I watched as Alice “bumped” into her making her spill her drink on Alice. My sister must really love me to let someone ruin her outfit.

APOV

It was finally the right time. I knew when we were at Tanya’s wedding that he’d finally make his decision. I’d known all along my brother was going to choose this path. He never liked to do things the easy way so why would the choice of mate be any different? I knew Forks was where the girl in question would be. I didn’t know her name yet but I knew she was for Edward. I’d seen her a few times over the years in my visions. I knew she and I would become close friends. I saw their wedding and she would fit in perfectly, even before she knows the truth about her place in our family.

However, it wasn’t going to be easy for him. She was probably the most difficult choice for a mate he could make and this wasn’t the place to tell him either. He’d cause a scene that would terrorize this entire town. Hell, when they found out our entire family was going to have a fit even worse than the one when he made his announcement. Jasper didn’t even know everything and I hated that I’ve kept this secret from him, but I didn’t want him to worry about me. I know Jasper and his first instinct would be to take me far away from here to protect me and I knew Edward and my family was going to need my visions. I knew keeping things secret was the best decision until this girl was fully accepted by everyone in our family. Edward was going to have enough problems; he didn’t need his own family to fight him also.

It was decided I should be the one to approach her first to learn more about her. Of everyone, I was certainly the least intimidating. The guys were completely out and Rosalie, I knew wasn’t completely on board with Edward’s choice yet.

I walked by her, pretending to bump into her and causing her to spill her drink on my outfit. It was the easiest way to start a conversation.

“Edward you owe me for this one. I love this outfit!”

“Oh my gosh! I’m so sorry.” The girl looked at me in horror at the spreading stain on my shirt. I had to admit she was beautiful. “I’m always so clumsy. Please let me help you clean it up. We have some napkins over here.”

“Oh, and it’s my favorite. I don’t think it’s going to come out of my blouse.” I felt bad trying to make her feel guilty, but figured that was the best way to keep her talking.

“Well, please, you have to let me make it up to you. I can pay you for it if you’d like,” she said.

“Good choice, Edward. I like her.”

The people she was with turned to see what was happening. The tall boy with blonde hair came up and put his arm over her shoulder. “So what did you do now, Bella?” he asked chuckling. She grimaced. I felt bad that he was laughing at her, but figured that was only going to help Edward in the long run.

I stuck my hand out to her to introduce myself. “Hi, I’m Alice. We’re new in town. We just moved here from Alaska.”

She took my hand smiling, startled a little at the cold. “Hi, I’m Isabella, but my friends call me Bella.” She took her hand and gestured to her friends. “These are Mike” poking the laughing boy in the side, “Angela, her boyfriend Ben, Jessica, Tyler & Eric.”

I smiled, knowing my plan would work to separate her from her friends briefly so we could talk. The boy with her got distracted again talking about sports with the other boys in their group and was not paying her any attention. Hard to believe this idiot boy was going to be such a problem for Edward.

We walked over to a nearby table to get some napkins. “So, is that guy Mike your boyfriend?” I asked.

“No, he wants to be, but I haven’t decided yet. He’s really sweet, but sometimes he can be a little annoying,” she stated. “It’s hard when you’ve grown up with everyone so you remember every embarrassing or annoying thing they’ve ever done.” She shook her head like she was clearing a thought and looked at me brightly. “So, if you’re new here that means you’ll be going to Forks High in the fall, right? I’m going to be a senior this year. So are my friends.”

“Yes, we’re all going to be there. I have 3 brothers and a sister.” I pointed out my family. That’s my sister, Rosalie and the guy standing behind her is my brother, Emmett. Then Jasper,” my voice naturally softened at the mention of my love, “He’s the blonde one. The other one running his hand through his hair, looking all intense is Edward.” I knew he was struggling to stay away from her. I looked at her for a response to seeing Edward.

She was looking at all of them and her eyes got wide when she focused on Edward. She blushed and cleared her throat.

“Is everything okay?” I asked.

“Yeah, it’s nothing,” she said. A small smile was playing at the corner of her mouth. I knew she had been sneaking glances at Edward since she first noticed him. Who wouldn’t, my brother was good looking. Not as yummy as my Jasper, of course, but still very nice to look at.

About that time Mike walked over to where we were standing and wrapped his arms around her waist, kissing her cheek. “Hey, Bella, you ready to go dance some more?”

He looked at me frowning, having overheard me pointing out my brothers. He was obviously trying to mark Bella as his. That was fine, it’s not like he was going to get to keep her.

“Sure Mike, just a sec, okay?” She turned back to me. “It was nice to meet you and I’m sure I’ll see you around over the summer before school starts. It’s a small town so there’s not much to do. Again, I’m really sorry about your blouse. Is there anything I can do to make it up to you?”

I smiled. This was exactly what I was waiting for. “Well, since you obviously know everything there is to do and where to go…do you think you’d want to hang out tomorrow and show me around some? I’m really desperate for a shopping trip.”

“Sure, that would be fun. I can show you the only hangouts we have here. We would need to go to Port Angeles if you want to shop though. I’m not much of a shopper, but I do owe you a top and I need to pick up a few new books to read.”

“Edward, she just keeps getting better and better. A reader just like you.”

“Great! Here’s my cell and give me yours. I’ll give you my number and call you in the morning to set it up.” I handed her my phone and took hers to punch in my phone number.

Mike was frowning the whole time. “Bella, I thought we were going to the movie tomorrow?”

“Oh”, she said looking over her shoulder at him, “we can still do that in the evening. I’m sure we’ll be back in time. I’ll call you when I get home, okay?”

He pouted a little and said, “Yeah, that’s fine. I’ll just hang out with the guys then ‘til you call. Now, come on they’re starting up another song.” He started to tug her arm.

She waved bye to me as they walked away. “I’ll see you tomorrow Alice,” she said as he spun her out onto the floor.

I skipped back over to everyone smiling. “Well, Edward, what do you think?”

He just looked at me with a far away look in his eyes and smiled.

Emmett bellowed, “Ladies and Gentlemen, I think we have a winner!”

Rosalie just smacked him and rolled her eyes. She turned to Edward and frowned. “Edward, don’t screw this up. You better make damn sure. You know I don’t like this, but I want you to find someone the same as everyone else.”

Edward frowned at Rosalie. “Just shut up. I know what I’m doing. I know she’s my mate. I want her.” He then grinned, lightening the tense atmosphere. “Unless of course we find out that her idea of reading material is fashion magazines or cheesy romance novels,” he smirked.

Rosalie & I both smacked him at that. “Hey! Watch it. That’s sacrilege you know.”

We stayed a while longer so Emmett could dance a few more songs with his wife. Jasper was even confident enough in himself to spin me on the floor for a couple of songs. I warned Edward not to approach Bella tonight, so he just stood there on the side watching his future in the arms of his rival. I admired his restraint. He was going to need it.

Chapter 1

I don’t own Twilight or SM’s characters. I just like to have a little fun with them.

Creating A Mate

EPOV

I’m 117 years old. I’ve been a vampire for 100 years, being turned at 17 when I was dying of the Spanish Influenza by Carlisle, my “father”. Our coven is more of a family really. Carlisle is our father with Esme as his wife, our mother. I have 4 siblings, Rosalie & Emmett, Alice & Jasper. They are all married, but my siblings pretend to just be dating so we fit in better wherever we happen to be living. Do you see a pattern in my life? Everyone in my family has found their mate except me.

I’ve been alone for 100 years and it’s getting old now. It’s no longer a want to finding a mate. It’s become a need. The ability to continue another 100+ years alone watching and hearing everyone in my family being in love is no longer an option. The fact that my body was frozen at 17 when my human hormones were already running amok and having been heightened by my vampire senses only made things extremely uncomfortable. I need more than my music and family relations to be whole and casual encounters no longer help mask the loneliness in my soul.

This leads me to where I am now, searching for my mate. Who knew it would take so long and be so hard. My family and I have been across most of Europe and Canada helping me search, visiting vegetarian covens with single females who at least appear to be close to my age. No one sparked more than a fleeting interest. I wanted someone I could carry on an intelligent conversation with about more than the latest fashion. I swear most females I met seem better suited for Alice or Rosalie than for me. My sisters could talk a fashion designer to death.

The closest I’d come was friends of ours in Alaska. Their coven was the closest in lifestyle to ours being vegetarian and living as a family unit. We visited with the Denali clan about 10 years ago and I thought there was a possibility with one of the sisters, Tanya. She was beautiful and very nice, but we just didn’t have that much in common. After spending time in Europe with no luck, I went back to Tanya resigned to at least try again. We arrived in time for her wedding to her mate, Gabriel. She found him while hunting in Canada a few years back. Their story was similar to Emmett & Rosalie, in that she had found him while out hunting and had to change him because he was dying. In Gabriel’s case though he was dying of hypothermia, not a bear attack.

The reception was going on outside their home and everyone was laughing and having a wonderful time. I was sitting in their study brooding. I’d heard my family’s thoughts worrying about me. I heard Carlisle’s thoughts coming down the hall towards the study; he was worried about how I would handle this setback. I took a deep calming breath and wiped the look of frustration from my face as he came into the room. I didn’t want him to worry about me as I already had a plan of action in mind. I just needed to convince my family now that this was the only solution left to me.

“Edward, I’m sorry this didn’t work out for you. Please don’t get discouraged. I know your soul mate is out there waiting for you. It’s just going to take some time”

I stood up and ran my hands through my hair, tugging a little in frustration. “Carlisle, you know as well as I do that’s a lie. I’ve spent the last 80 years looking for a mate with no luck. We’ve been to visit all the vegetarian covens across the globe with no luck. I can’t look at the covens that feed off humans. Who wants a mate you have to worry about all the time if she’s going to eat the neighbors?”

Carlisle chuckled a little. “I’m glad you still have a sense of humor at least. It means all is not lost.”

I just growled at him. Carlisle raised his eyebrow at that. “Sorry, Carlisle. I’m just frustrated. I hate feeling so alone. Being here at Tanya’s wedding is just bringing home to me how much I want and need my own mate.”

Carlisle walked over and put his hand on my shoulder. “I understand, son. Esme and I have done a lot of talking about your situation. We hate you being alone almost as much as you hate it.

Esme has been worried that part of the problem is that I turned you when you were too young. I don’t think that’s the problem so much as you’ve been without a mate for 100 years and are just set in your ways, so to speak. You have very specific ideas of what you’re looking for and no one measures up.”

“Are you implying that I’m being too picky? Remember I am going to be with this person for all eternity and that’s a long time to have nothing in common to talk about.”

“No, no. I’m not saying that at all. I know I couldn’t have asked for anyone better suited to me than Esme. I wouldn’t want to think of life with anyone else but her. “
I heard a commotion in the house as the rest of my family came in. Jasper came in and sat down.
Alice bounced over to me and hugged me. “Edward, don’t feel bad. I didn’t see you and Tanya together anyway, so it wouldn’t have happened even if she wasn’t married now.”

“Gee, thanks Alice. I feel so much better.” I said sarcastically. “Could you try to make me feel like a bigger loser?”

Emmett slapped me on the back and went to sit with Rosalie on the sofa.

Esme just hugged me as she stood by Carlisle. “Honey, we just want you to be happy. All Alice is trying to say is that she didn’t think Tanya was the one.”

I turned to Carlisle. “Carlisle, I’m actually glad everyone is here now because I want to discuss something with you and it involves the whole family. Please Carlisle, Esme, have a seat.”

They walked over to the other sofa and sat down together. Carlisle looked at me. “Alright son, let’s hear it. What do you want to discuss?”

All of a sudden Alice squealed and clamped her hand over her mouth. “Sorry Edward.”

I just looked at her and frowned. “Carlisle, I want you to keep an open mind and hear me out before you say anything.” I took a deep breath; I knew he wasn’t going to like my next statement. “I’ve done a lot of thinking on this and I don’t see any other way around it. I’ve decided that if I can’t find a mate, I’ll make one of my own.”

Everyone looked at me with confusion for a minute except Alice. She was trying hard not to bounce out of her chair.

All of a sudden the light went on in everyone’s head.

“What?! How could you even contemplate doing something like that? Edward, we’ll find someone for you. Don’t give up please,” Esme implored.

“How could you even think such a thing? I swear I’ll stop you if you even try something like that. I won’t let you do it,” Rosalie promised with anger flashing in her eyes.

“You know that would be impossible. You would constantly have to watch every move you make so you don’t accidentally kill her. Much less want to suck her dry. How long do think that kind of mate will last? A day? If you just wanted a one-night stand there are some single women out there that don’t look bad.” He gestured with his thumb over his shoulder toward the window. Naturally Emmett’s mind went straight to the gutter. It’s where his mind stayed when it wasn’t on pranks.

I began to pace the room. I could feel Jasper sending waves of calm to everyone, which I really appreciated. I knew Rosalie would be the most adamantly against my idea and really didn’t want to get in a fight with her at the moment. Not that Emmett would let me get close enough to even wrinkle her dress.

“I know it won’t be easy at first. Eventually I’ll have to turn her to keep her safe. I just know that there’s no other option now. I’ve done everything else. Please everyone, try to understand, if there was another way I wouldn’t even consider it. You’ve all found your mates. You have your happiness. I want- No, I need to find mine. I can’t be alone any longer and I don’t want to live the life of a nomad.”

Nomads were vampires who’d given up. They roamed the world alone and tended to become more violent as the years went on. Eventually they either joined the Volturi or had to be destroyed. I’d met the leaders of the Volturi once. They were our rulers who made and enforced the laws we lived by. They drank from humans and were uncaring whether they destroyed a family or drained the scum of society. They saw humans that were unfortunate enough to be caught in their web as cattle. I refused to live like that. I also had a strong sense of self-preservation and didn’t want to end my existence.

Carlisle stood up and walked to me. He put his hand on my shoulder and looked in my eyes, I’m certain deciphering the seriousness of my intent. He sighed. “I see your mind is made up. I’m not in favor of turning someone who has a choice ever, but I agree you have tried everything else. So I’m willing to support your decision and see what happens. But I warn you Edward, be very sure of your decision when you choose someone. Remember whoever this girl is will be giving up the natural life she would have led. There can be no mistakes.”

“Thank you Carlisle. I was worried about your approval,” I sighed in relief. I respected him too much to ever go against him, but this was too damn important to me. “I swear I won’t make any hasty decisions. I have my eternity riding on this as well.”

“So where do you want to start?” he asked.

Alice jumped up no longer able to contain her excitement. “I think we should start in Washington and work our way east. After all you and Esme already have a house in Forks we can stay in and Jasper and I have never been. We’ll need to stay in the Northern states. You can’t look south because it’s always sunny.” She snickered at Edward, “It just wouldn’t do to walk up and introduce yourself to some girl while sparkling. Running and screaming don’t help a courtship very much.”

Everyone laughed at her joke while I just frowned at her. She knew something but was blocking me by singing a Brittney Spears song in pig-latin. She knew I couldn’t stand her music and to sing it in pig-latin was enough to get me out of her mind quickly. She just smirked at me.
Carlisle smiled and said “That’s just as good of a place to start as any other. We’ll leave after everyone hunts.”

***

We moved into the house in Forks at the beginning of summer. It was the perfect time to be able to settle in and start looking around before school started in the fall. Hopefully by that time we won’t be such a novelty to everyone and things would go smoothly. Carlisle took a position at the local hospital and Esme was redecorating the house for our stay. There was a summer festival going on in town so the rest of us decided to go to the street dance that evening. We knew being outside would be easier to be around that many humans in one place for a start. And let’s face it the very concept of a dance is to meet the opposite sex.

We got to the dance a little before sundown and stood on the side looking around at everything. It wasn’t a bad dance for a small town. They had a local band playing that weren’t too bad, but seemed better suited for country music than pop. Emmett was very happy about that. He grabbed Rosalie as the band began a popular country song and pulled her out on the dance floor.
Jasper, Alice and I stood and watched everyone. Jasper wasn’t sure of himself being in the middle of that many humans while they were dancing. The emotions coming off the males and females around us were enough to knock you over even if you could resist their blood.

I watched as Emmett swung Rosalie around across the crowd. He was laughing and having a good time. He really was just a big bear. Rosalie just looked at him with love and amusement.
That’s when I saw her. She was dancing in the crowd with a young boy with blonde hair. He was leaning into her saying something in her ear. She looked up at him and threw her head back and laughed. Even with all the noise I could hear her laugh. It sounded like music. She had beautiful mahogany hair that hung down her back in waves. She was dressed simply in jeans and a t-shirt and boots.

The song ended and she and the boy she was dancing with made their way over to our side of the street stopping to talk with a group of kids that looked their age. The boy handed her a drink and she turned to look around her surveying everyone. She finally turned in my direction and I saw her eyes. I knew even in the fading evening light they were a deep chocolate brown. Her face was like looking at heaven. She saw me looking at her and she smiled timidly at me blushing before turning back to her group of friends.

Alice had seen me pause and looked for who had caught my attention. “Edward?” She touched my sleeve pulling me out of my trance.

I glanced down at her and smiled. “I think I found her, Alice.”