Forks, Washington is a small town nearby Seattle. Normally nobody would have any desire to visit Forks but one girl had a reason. This girl is Hailey Swan. She is cousin to Isabella Swan who lives in Forks with her father. Hailey was encouraged to visit the Swan’s by Bella’s mother, Reneé. The only problem was Hailey didn’t know where her cousin lived. You would think that she wouldn’t have any trouble finding her house in a small town like Forks. At first Hailey just walked around the town but that didn’t help matters. It didn’t take long for her to get lost.

She was on a dirt road now and it was getting dark. A full moon shined down on the road so it wasn’t as dark as it would have been if it was cloudy. Hailey was about to give up when she saw lights in the distance. A long windy driveway stretched out in front of her. At the end of the driveway was a huge house. It looked Victorian in style and very beautiful.

“Maybe I can ask for directions.” She thought to herself.

With that decided, Hailey started to hike up the driveway. She knew she should have rented a car at the airport but she wasn’t very smart. By the time Hailey got to the top of the driveway, she was out of breath. Seeing the door in her sights, Hailey put her satchel down and sat on top of it to rest for a few minutes.

The home belonged to Dr. Cullen and his family. He is a world renowned doctor, but enjoyed working in Forks. His family was like any other family except for one thing – they were vampires. Normally this wouldn’t be the best place for a young, human girl to arrive at. But little did she know that this vampire family did not feed on human blood but on animal blood. Hailey didn’t know any of this as she sat outside their home.

Alice Cullen, one of the Cullen siblings, had an amazing talent. She could see into the future of things that were going to happen long before they happened. Alice knew Hailey was coming hours ago. She had informed the family so they were prepared. The youngest Cullen, Edward, sat on the couch and listened. He also had a talent. Edward’s talent was that he could hear people’s thoughts. He smiled at Hailey’s last thought to herself.

“I knew I should have rented a car but I’m not very smart.”

It was usually the dumb people who came upon the Cullen’s. His smile quickly faded into concern though. One of the Cullen’s still had problems with humans and had a hard time controlling himself. That was Jasper Hale. He was still a young vampire and wasn’t used to be around humans.

“Where’s Jasper?” Edward inquired of the family.

“He’s on a hunt.” Carlisle, the father of the Cullen’s, said bluntly.

Edward frowned.

“I know what you’re thinking Edward.” Carlisle answered Edwards question before he asked it.

Turning to face Carlisle, Edward responded.

“Don’t you think we should get that girl inside before Jasper decides to maker her his dinner? You know how unstable he can be.”

Alice scowled. Even though she knew that Edward was correct, it didn’t erase the fact that she was Jasper’s girlfriend and was very close to him.

Edward sneered. He didn’t like who he was but he made the best of it. He was, of course, in love with a human girl. Isabella Swan was his life and she felt the same about him. This made Edward smile but that didn’t last long.

“You’re right Edward.” Carlisle finally said as he walked to the door.

By that time Hailey had gotten up from resting, picked up her satchel and headed towards the door.

She just reached forward to knock when Carlisle opened the door.

“Oh!” Hailey exclaimed in surprise. “I’m so sorry! I hope I am not intruding. I’m lost and was hoping for directions.”

Carlisle smiled. “Of course. Please come in, Miss….?”

“Swan. Hailey Swan.”

Carlisle stood there, almost in shock. Her last name was familiar.

“Welcome Miss Swan. My name is Dr. Carlisle Cullen.” He said while opening the door wide so Hailey could enter.

Edward didn’t act ignorant when Hailey said her name. It wasn’t a coincidence that Hailey and Isabella had the same last name.

“Everyone.” Carlisle said to get everyone’s attention. “This is Miss Hailey Swan.”

Edward stood up as soon as Hailey entered the room and was the first to shake her hand.

“Edward Cullen.”

Alice was the second to jump up. She was very excited about meeting someone new. She shook Hailey’s hand excitedly. “Hailey! My name is Alice Cullen. It’s a pleasure to meet you!”

Edward shook his head in dismay. “Control yourself Alice. You don’t want to frighten the poor girl away.”

Carlisle then took the initiative to introduce Esme, his wife.

“Hailey, this is my wife Esme.”

Esme smiled and walked over to Hailey.

“It’s so nice to meet you, Hailey. You are most welcome in our home.”

Hailey smiled at all the greetings. She had never been so welcomed by a group of strangers before.

“I have 3 more children but they are away at the moment.” Carlisle continued. “So, Hailey, how can we help?”

“Well…” Hailey started to explain but felt nervous. “I’m surprising my cousin Bella with a visit but I don’t know where she lives.”

Everyone stared at Hailey. No one spoke for a long period of time which made Hailey even more nervous.

Edward was the first to speak.

“Bella? Bella Swan?” He questioned.

“Yes! Do you know her?” Hailey excitedly asked.

Edward grinned. “I know Bella quite well. I am her boyfriend.”

“Oh. OH!” Hailey blushed at Edwards grin.

Esme interrupted. “Weren’t you going to see Bella tonight, Edward?”

Edwards smile left his face. “Yes, I was.” Turning to Hailey he continued his thought. “I could take you, Hailey. She will be very excited to see you.” Edward said with a little bit of enthusiasm.

“I wouldn’t want to impose…” Hailey trailed off.

“No trouble at all!” Edward grabbed Hailey’s satchel and headed out the front door towards the garage.

Carlisle turned towards Hailey before she left.

“It was a pleasure to meet you Hailey. Maybe we will see you again?”

Hailey smiled. “Maybe. Thank you for the hospitality.”

Carlisle, Esme and Alice all nodded their heads in a silent acknowledgement.

Hailey followed Edward back outside, not sure if she felt comfortable with the situation with Edward.

Edward opened the garage door and to her surprise there were 4 cars parked there. One was a monstrous jeep. It raised high above the other cars, almost reaching the roof of the garage. Next to the jeep was a bright red convertible with its top down. The third car was a sleek, silver Mercedes coupe. The last car, which Edward led me to, was also a Mercedes but pitch black.

Hailey just stood there in shock. Edward had put the satchel in the back and had opened the passenger door for her. She closed her open jaw after a minute and smiled.

“I know why Bella is attracted to him.” Hailey thought.

Edward grinned at that thought. Hailey ignored it and got into the car. The started up with a hum. Edward pulled slowly out of the garage and headed down the driveway, speeding up as he went.

No one spoke during the ride but Hailey felt like she was being watched; either by Edward or by someone else. It scared her but she let the feeling pass out of her mind.

It wasn’t very long until they were pulling into a driveway. A police cruiser sat in front of them. An old chevy truck was parked out front.

“Bella and Charlie are home.” Edward said with emphasis on the “and”. “Wait here, Hailey. I’ll go get Bella.”

Before she could object, Edward had opened the door of the car and was at the front of the door of the house, knocking.

It wasn’t a minute later that Bella was opening the door. She must have known it was Edward since she wrapped her arms around his neck. He gently kissed Bella on her cheek. I saw him then whisper in her ear and took her hand.

“There is someone here to see you, Bella.” Edward said clearly so that Hailey heard him.

Hailey opened her door and stepped out, smiling at her cousin.

Bella stopped in her tracks and stared at Hailey.

“Oh my gosh!” She said loudly. “Is that you, Hailey?!”

Bella let go of Edwards hand and ran to Hailey, giving her a huge hug.

At that moment Charlie, Bella’s father, burst out of the house.

“What is going on?” he questioned.

Bella stopped hugging Hailey and turned around.

“Hi, Uncle Charlie.” Hailey said.

Charlie Swan was in much of a shock as Bella was. He hadn’t seen Hailey for almost 5 years.

“Hailey…?” his voice cracked, yet he still was frozen where he stood.

Hailey walked up to him and put her arms around Charlie’s neck. It wasn’t until then that he unfroze and returned the hug. He lifted Hailey off her feet and swung her around like a little girl, laughing while doing it.

Edward stood in the distance with his arms crossed. He hadn’t seen Charlie act this way before and wondered how close Hailey was to the Swans. Bella never mentioned anybody else in her family except for Charlie, Reneé and Phil – Bella’s step-father.

Bella walked over to where Edward was standing.

“I know you are curious.” She watched while Charlie continued to hug Hailey. “Do you want to know?”

Edward didn’t say anything but Bella knew the answer.

“Hailey’s parents died in an accident when she was 10 years old. We practically adopted her into our family. That was before my parents divorced.” Bella paused, not wanting to remember the past. It still affected her in some ways, but she continued.

“After my parents divorced, Hailey mostly stayed with me and my mom. As soon as she turned 16, she moved out. Hailey has been a sister to me since then and my dad loved her like his own daughter.”

Edward nodded his head in understanding.

“So that’s why Charlie is happy to see Hailey. He hasn’t seen her for almost 5 years.” Bella continued.

At that time Charlie had stopped hugging Hailey.

“So tell me, what brings you to Forks?” he asked.

“Reneé. She suggested I visit for a month or so.”

“That’s great! Do you have any bags?”

“Just one. It’s in Edward’s car.”

Hailey turned to ask Edward for her bag but he had already gotten it out of the car and carried it up to the front door where Hailey stood.

“Let’s all go inside then. I’m sure Hailey is tired from her trip.” Charlie responded.

Hailey followed him inside the house with Bella and Edward close behind.

Bella took this time to whisper to Edward.

“She doesn’t know, does she?”

“No.” Edward said sternly. “We don’t want her to know either.”

By the time that Bella and Edward entered into the living room, Hailey was sitting on the couch with her arms crossed, like she was cold. Charlie sat nearby in his own armchair.

Bella sat down next to Hailey, looping her arm through Hailey’s. Edward sat down next to Bella without a sound.

“What grade will you be going in?” Bella asked to break the silence.

“Um…” Hailey paused. “Twelfth.”

“Same grade as me and Edward then!”

“Don’t forget about Alice, Emmett and Rosalie.” Edward reminded Bella.

“Oh. Yep. Almost forgot.”

Hailey turned to face Edward. “Is that your other siblings?” She asked him.

“Yes. There is Emmett, Rosalie and Jasper who you didn’t meet.”

“Oh.”

Bella looked at Edward questioningly.

“Later.” Edward mouthed to Bella.

The night went on. Hailey continued to answer Bella and Charlie’s questions about her life. After a while Edward left so Hailey could get some rest. Charlie prepared a bed for her in their spare bedroom and everyone went to bed; all except Bella who waited for Edward to come back. He did this every night so they could get some privacy from Charlie.

Bella prepared herself for bed and waited patiently. A few minutes later Edward showed up. He sat in her rocking chair that was in the corner of her room. He narrowed his eyes at Bella like he was in deep thought.

“It’s Jasper, isn’t it?” Bella stated.

Edward sighed. “He was out hunting when she arrived at our house. I was afraid for her life. He hasn’t been stable.”

“So who did Hailey meet then?”

“Carlisle, Esme, Alice and myself. Rosalie and Emmett were in town.”

“Alice knew then?” Bella inquired.

“Yes, a while ago. She didn’t know it was a surprise visit though.”

“Well, I’m just glad she’s alive and here.” She said while smiling.

Edward smiled and sat next to her on the bed. He pushed a strand of hair behind her ear and started to kiss her on the neck. When he stopped kissing her, he noticed that Bella’s eyes were beginning to get drowsy. Edward smiled at her weakness.

“I think it is time for the human to sleep.” He said after a while.

Bella sighed but knew he was right.

“Fine.”

Bella curled up under the covers of her bed and flipped off the light. Edward pulled the cover over her body and took his usual spot next to her. He gently placed his arm his shoulders humming a lullaby to her as she drifted off to sleep.

~*~

“I wish I would have come sooner, Bella. I love it here.”

Bella took Hailey on a walk in the woods behind her house. It was the morning after Hailey had arrived. The bright morning sun peeked in and out of the trees as they walked.

“I’m glad you like it. It’s so wonderful that we are together again.” Bella smiled, as they continued on.

Even though, in Hailey’s mind, she was enjoying the walk she couldn’t help but think of the night before.

“The Cullen’s are an interesting family.” She thought.

“What do you think of the Cullen’s?” Bella interrupted Hailey’s thoughts. It was if Bella could hear what she was thinking.

“They are an interesting family. Very hospitable though. I hope I can meet the rest of the family.”

“I wouldn’t worry about that. I’m sure Alice will think of something to get you to visit the house again.”

Bella laughed at her own comment. Hailey turned to look at her cousin and smiled.

“You really like Edward, don’t you?” Hailey asked.

Redness flushed Bella’s cheeks.

“Yes. It’s funny though. When I first met him, I hated him so much! I guess it was the hatred that brought us close together.”

Hailey nodded her head. “It sometimes happens that way.”

Suddenly Hailey felt like they weren’t alone and she was right.

“Bella!” Someone yelled behind them.

Bella and Hailey both turned around to see who it was. Bella sighed. It was only Alice Cullen.

“Were your ears burning, Alice?” Bella commented as Alice came up to meet them.

“Ha! Yes. I felt like someone was talking about me.” Alice paused with a smile and greeted Hailey. “Hey Hailey!”

Bella knew far too well that Alice did know they were talking about her. Shaking her head she let the two girls chat.

“Hello Alice.”

“What are you two doing?” she asked.

“Just going for a walk. Anything new?”

“No. Everything is as it should be. Would you both like to come up to the house? Hailey hasn’t met everyone yet.”

With it being Saturday and no school, it sounded like a perfect idea to Bella, as long as Jasper was alright. Alice looked back at Bella and nodded her head in response to her thought.

“Sure. That would be great.” Hailey smiled.

“Wonderful! Let’s go!”

“Alice…we aren’t walking all the way to your house.”

“Oh. I know that. My car is down the hill.” Alice pointed towards Bella’s house.

“Smart one, Alice.” Bella said.

They all walked back to Bella’s house and there in front of the house sat a red convertible.

“Alice…” Bella glared. “That is Rose’s car.”

“I know. I’m just boring it. If Edward would just buy me the car he promised we wouldn’t have those problems.” Alice scowled.

“You don’t always get what you want, Alice.”

“Would be nice though.”

Alice led them both to the shiny convertible. The sun was shining on it to make the paint have an almost glow to it. Bella let Hailey sit up front while Bella climbed in the back behind Alice. Bella could tell that Alice was enjoying herself. There was no doubt that Alice was a social butterfly. Hailey looked like she was enjoying herself too. This made Bella happy.

The trip to the Cullen’s took longer then Hailey had remembered. Maybe because when Edward took her to the Swan’s house, he was going rather fast. She could see more of the scenery now and the countryside was beautiful to her. Living in the city had its downsides.

When they reached the Cullen house, Hailey was in awe. It was an old Victorian home. Windows stretched all around the front of the house. It was painted a pale blue with wooden eaves shadowing each of the windows. Alice pulled up and parked in the garage that stood towering next to the house. As you walk up to the house, a set of stairs bring you up to a long porch. A sunroom jutted out from the front of the house to the right. A set of double wide wooden doors stood in front of you. They were carved with intricate designs in them. Alice opened the doors to allow Bella and Hailey in. Carlisle was there to greet them again with a big smile on his face. Esme stood next to him. Alice burst in behind Bella and Hailey.

“I brought Hailey back!” Alice announced to everyone in the room. It seemed like everyone was indeed there at this moment. Edward smiled upon seeing Bella and walked over to where they stood.

“You planned this, didn’t you?” Bella inquired of Edward.

“Pretty much…with Alice’s help of course.” He winked.

The three siblings that Hailey hadn’t met were standing nearby. Emmett was the first to greet Hailey.

“Hey. I’m Emmett. Alice informed me that I had to meet you.” Emmett grinned widely.

Hailey was a still nervous but nodded her head with a smile. One of the other siblings, Rosalie came up behind Emmett and smacked him in the back of the head.

“Don’t intimidate.” Rosalie scowled not only at Emmett but Hailey. This made Hailey even more uncomfortable. The last sibling just stood in the background and didn’t make a move. It looked like he was keeping something inside. Jasper was as talented as Alice and Edward but his talent was that he could interpret what emotions were swirling around a single person or even a group of people. Hailey felt like he was invading her mind. Everyone turned to face Jasper as if they felt agitation in the air.

Alice glared at Jasper, mentally warning him to be nice. He finally walked over to Hailey and smiled.

“Nice to meet you.”

This seemed to relieve everyone including Alice who had a big grin on her face again. She turned around and grabbed Hailey’s hand, dragging her into the living room to sit down.

She sat down on the couch in the middle. Alice and Bella sat on both sides of her. Edward sat on the arm of the sofa, putting his arm around Bella. Emmett, Rosalie and Jasper leaned against the staircase while Carlisle and Esme sat close by the couch. Hailey felt like Rosalie and Jasper despised her but she wasn’t sure.

It was silent for quite some time. Hailey was scanning her eyes around the room, noticing very few pictures on the surrounding walls.

Alice took that moment to invade her thoughts. She got up out of her seat on the sofa and went to a nearby bookshelf. There she took off an album of some sort. Going back to the couch, she plopped the album right in Hailey’s lap.

“There’s some pictures of Bella in there.” She smiled.

Hailey smiled back and opened the album up to the first group of photos. There were very old. It seemed to be from around the early 1800s. She didn’t recognize any faces that she knew except for two; Carlisle and Esme. This confused Hailey but she continued on.

While Hailey was doing that, Edward was glancing over at Carlisle.

“Is this the right thing to do? She’s already suspicious.” He said to Carlisle in his thoughts. Carlisle was the only person who Edward could talk to in their thoughts.

“We will take it in strides. Bella hasn’t been harmed with knowing and neither have we.”

“I’m more concerned about safety reasons then harm to us.”

The next chain of events went by fast. Nobody would have figured that anything like this would happen.

Alice gasped.

“Oh no!”

Edward snapped his head back around towards Alice.

“OW!” Hailey hollered.

The smell was all familiar to Edward and everyone in the room. Hailey was looking down at her finger. Something wet and most definitely red was oozing out of the tip.

“I hate paper cuts.” She calmly said. Not knowing what that really meant to a family like the Cullen’s.

Edward jumped up and stood in front of Hailey, keeping an eye on Jasper.

Jasper’s eyes were wide with desire and he licked his lips. His self-control was going to blow at any moment. All of the sudden Jasper bolted towards Hailey but Edward stood in the way. Edward held his ground, throwing Jasper to the floor and held him there with all the force he could muster.

Carlisle jumped up and took Hailey’s hand, pulling her off the sofa. The photo album tumbled to the floor landing face down on the floor.

“Come with me.” Carlisle said to Hailey, pulling her along towards the stairs.

Hailey went into panic mode.

“What’s going on? I only have a paper cut…”

Carlisle kept silent and continued to lead her upstairs. At the top of the staircase was a long hallway with many doors lining both sides of the hall. Carlisle led Hailey into the first room on the right. When she entered the room, it opened up into a brightly lit study.

“This must be Carlisle’s personal study.” She thought.

In front of her stood a huge wooden desk with a few leather chairs around the desk. Book shelves lined both sides of the room. A huge window was behind the desk that led to a small balcony.

Carlisle motioned for Hailey to sit. He took a seat behind the big desk. He tried to smile but she could tell that nothing about this moment was happy.

A few minutes later Bella and Edward came in. Edward closed the door behind him as he entered. Bella took a seat, without being told, next to Hailey. Edward took a place behind Bella, placing his hands on the top of the chair. A worried expression riddled Edward’s eyes.

“I know you have a lot of questions, Hailey. We didn’t expect something like this to happen, especially out of Jasper.”

Hailey didn’t know whether to take the cue and start spilling out her questions or if she should wait for Carlisle to continue. She decided to pause and wait for him to continue.

“Not many people know about us. You must understand. Normally in a situation like this we would have eliminate the witnesses but this is a special circumstance.”

Hailey’s nerves were at end. Suddenly she feared only for her life.

Carlisle smiled. “Don’t be scared, Hailey. We won’t harm you. We should have known better to not expect something out of him. He didn’t get much out of his hunting trip. He’s just cranky because of not being fed.”

“Not being fed…hunting…eliminate the witnesses…” Hailey led the facts swim in her mind. They all came to one conclusion as she almost bolted out of the chair she sat in. “VAMPIRES!”

Edward moved and put a firm hand on Hailey’s shoulders before she could even think about escaping. Hailey looked at Carlisle, up at Edward and then finally over at Bella.

“You knew?” She questioned Bella.

“Yes. I know Hailey. You must understand that I couldn’t tell you. They have rules about that kind of thing.”



“I don’t understand but I will accept it.” Hailey finally said. This made Carlisle smile and she could almost feel like Edward had the same reaction because he squeezed her shoulder.

Bella took her hand and squeezed it, bring her attention back. “Let’s go back downstairs…” her thought got interrupted by a phone ringing. It was Bella’s. She slowly reached into her pocket and dug out her cell phone. She looked at the caller id and it showed it was Charlie.

“Hello?” she said after answering it.

“Who?”

“Are you serious?”

“Alright, alright. We’ll be right over.”

Bella closed her phone in disgust.

“That was Charlie. It seems that I have a visitor.”

Edward snarled because he knew who it was already.

Hailey was the one who asked. “Who?”

“It’s an old friend of mine. Jacob Black.”

“Filthy dog.” Edward murmured.

Hailey was confused again. She looked over at Bella in question.

“It’s a long story but Jacob is a changeling…he changes into a wolf and is also a sworn enemy of vampires.”

“Ohhhh. I see Bella.” Hailey chuckled. “You have some really interesting friends.”

Bella couldn’t help but laugh. “Yea. What can I say?”

Looking up at Edward she tried to smile to get him back from agitation.

“Would you mind driving us back home? I’d rather not walk.”

“My pleasure but I won’t be staying.”

“Understandable.” Bella nodded her head.

Hailey got up out of the chair and was getting ready to leave the room when she turned back to face Carlisle.

“Thank you Carlisle. I appreciate the honesty and the hospitality you and your family has shown me. I also want to thank you for not holding true to your rules. I hope it won’t cause trouble for you.”

“It is no problem Hailey. You are just as special to us as Bella is. We will be your protection while you are here.”

Hailey smiled and nodded her head in thanks.

Just as Hailey turned to leave Carlisle’s office a strange feeling came upon her. It was as if someone was invading her mind. A voice suddenly erupted in her mind. It paralyzed her mind and her body.

“Hello Hailey.” The voice said. “You don’t know me…yet…but I know you.”

Alice came running into the room at that moment with a startled look on her face.

“Hailey?” There was no answer. Hailey could hear Alice but didn’t have the will power to respond.

“What is it, Alice?” Carlisle inquired.

“Someone has invaded Hailey’s mind.”

At that moment Carlisle and Edward noticed that something was wrong.

“Do not listen to them.” The voice continued. “I know what you are and I know who your real parents were.”

“I am coming for you…you will not live for long.”

“Alice!” Bella shrieked. “Can you do something?”

“I’m sorry Bella. I don’t have strong enough powers.” Alice was disheartened. She wished she could get intruders out of people’s minds but it was impossible. Then all of the sudden they heard a gasp from Hailey as she collapsed to the floor.

Edward was there in a second to lift her up. He gently placed her in a nearby chair.

Carlisle reached into a drawer in his desk and pulled out a bottle. Bella knew instantly that it was smelling salts. He opened the bottle and slowly waved it under Hailey’s nose. Her eyes fluttered open immediately.

“Hailey? Are you alright?” Carlisle questioned.

“I…I…don’t know.” She stuttered. “He…he was in my mind.” Her eyes started to glisten as tears gently rolled down her cheeks.

“What did he say?” Edward continued to prod.

Hailey took a deep breath.

“He said he knew me…knew what I am…knew who my real parents were…” Her voice trailed off.

Carlisle straightened from his attention to Hailey and looked to Edward, to Alice and to Bella.

“Edward, take Bella home.” Carlisle spoke. “Bella, tell your father that Hailey became ill and that I am taking care of her.”

“Alice and I need to figure this out.” He continued before anyone could protest.

Without a word Edward took Bella’s hand and dragged her out of the room, leaving Carlisle and Alice with Hailey.

“Alice, I want you to find out if what this guy said is the truth.”

“There is something else I need to tell you.” Hailey interrupted.

Carlisle turned to Alice, curious in his own mind.

“He said I will not live for long.”

Carlisle frowned.

“Alright. I am going to do some tests. Maybe I can find something that way.” He turned back to Alice. “Do what I said Alice. Find out all information you can find about Hailey and her family.”

Alice nodded her head, turned and left the room.

Carlisle went back to his desk and lifted up his medical bag off the floor. He reached inside and bag and took out a small black pouch. Unzipping it, he pulled out a syringe. This really scared Hailey. She never liked needles. The next thing that Carlisle pulled out was a long vial. He attached it to the end of the syringe.

“Ok Hailey. I need to get some blood from you so I can do some tests.”

“Alright.”

Hailey looked away as Carlisle gently pushed the needle into her arm. He was done in a second like he had done it a million times. She barely felt the prick.

“There…that wasn’t so bad.”

“How are you going to test my blood?”

“In my lab.” Grabbing her hand, Carlisle smiled. “Come…I shall show you.”

As soon as they left the room, Jasper was there waiting for them.

“Jasper…”

“I’m fine now.”

Carlisle narrowed his eyes as he watched Jasper closely.

“I wanted to apologize. I feel awful about what happened, Hailey.” He threw the last comment right at Hailey, looking into her eyes.

“I assume you know what is going on.”

Jasper nodded his head.

“Keep it to yourself for now.”

He nodded his head again and went back downstairs.

“Everything will be fine, Hailey.”

Carlisle continued to lead Hailey down the long hallway, stopping at a door in the middle of the wall facing them. He opened the door and another set of stairs were in front of them. These went straight up, to what Hailey assumed, were to the attic. To her surprise it opened up into a huge medical office. The walls were a bright blue and glistened from the sun shining in a huge bay window. Hailey could see all sorts of medical equipment. There was a big stainless steel table in the middle of the room. Cabinets covered all the walls. Some of the cabinets held medicine while others held tools and other things.

Carlisle led Hailey over to a table that held a microscope. Hailey sat in a nearby chair while Carlisle worked on her blood. He carefully tested every aspect of her blood. After a couple hours he finally looked up from his microscope with a confused look on his face. He quickly looked straight at her.

Without a sound, he took her hand again and led her back to his office. The compassion shining in Carlisle’s eyes told Hailey that something wasn’t right.

“Wait here Hailey. I will be right back.”

Carlisle then left his own office and shut the door behind him. He headed downstairs to confront the rest of the Cullen family. By that time Edward had come back after taking Bella home. They all sat in the living room and waited like someone had died.

As soon as Carlisle entered into the living room, Edward stood up and faced his father.

“What is wrong?”

“Plenty.” Was all Carlisle said. “I tested her blood and found some anomalies.”

“What kind of anomalies.” Alice piped up.

“Hailey Swan is not fully human. Her DNA is all screwed up. Her body does not know what it is.” Carlisle frowned. “She is half human and half…vampire.”

Everyone in the room gasped and spoke all at once.

“How is that possible?” Rosalie blurted out.

“Does she know?” Emmett asked.

Jasper and Edward just stared at Carlisle, not saying a word.

“That would explain the information I found out.” Alice piped up.

“What did you find out?” Carlisle inquired.

“Well…I can’t find any information of who her real parents were but she was put into an orphanage when she was 2 months old. Ten months later Charlie’s brother and sister-in-law adopted her.”

“Hmm…”

“What are we going to do about it?” Retorted Rosalie.

“You act like she’s a disease, Rose.” Edward grimaced. “She is partly one of us!”

“Hailey will never be one of us.” Rosalie hissed.

“Settle down! Both of you.” Carlisle hushed both of them. “Our first priority is to find out what can be done to help Hailey.”

Alice finally spoke up. “I think we should tell her, Carlisle. I’m sure she knows something is wrong.”

“I agree.” Everyone turned towards Jasper. That was the first time he had agreed to anything verbally. He usually told everyone how he felt emotionally.

“Shall we vote on it?” Emmett smiled. “I think we should tell her too. That way we can focus on helping her and she’ll understand all the facts.”

“Then it is agreed.” Carlisle nodded his head and then turned to Alice. “Get Hailey and bring her down here. We should do this as a family.”

After Alice left to go upstairs, Carlisle again turned to Jasper. “Jasper, I want you to go down to Texas and see if you can dig up any information on Hailey’s real parents. There has to be somebody who knows.”

Jasper nodded his head and made a bee line towards the back door. He left without a sound.

It was at that moment that Alice and Hailey were heard coming down the stairs. Everyone smiled as Hailey entered into the living room.

“She looks tired.” Edward thought to himself. Her eyes were bloodshot and she looked lethargic. If you didn’t know anything you would think she was a vampire because her skin was very pale. “She is one though.”

“I know it’s very late for you to be up, Hailey, but we have some things to discuss.”

“Ok. I know something is wrong with me otherwise you would have said something when you tested my blood.”

Carlisle nodded his head in sympathy.

“There is no easy way to say this…but…you aren’t fully human.”

“I’m not fully human…?”

“No. You are part…vampire.”

“I’m part…what?!”

“Vampire. We found out some details about your life. You were adopted by what you called your real parents. Nobody would have known unless you wouldn’t have come up to visit Bella.”

“What does that mean? I’ve lived 17 years of my life as part vampire and I didn’t know it?”

“Yes. We can’t answer how you couldn’t tell. I fear for your health. This couldn’t have been good for your heart, knowing that you part vampire and only eaten human food for that life span.”

“Is that why he wants me dead? Am I not wanted because I’m only part vampire? I wouldn’t be accepted as part human in my world either.”

“Who wants you dead?” Edward and Emmett both piped up.

“The guy who talked to me in my head. He said I wouldn’t live long.” Hailey bowed her head in shame. Alice put her arm around Hailey’s shoulders to give a little bit of support.

“Don’t worry, Hailey. We will protect you and figure out what can be done.”

“Does Bella or Charlie know?” Hailey inquired after a long moment of silence.

“Bella does not know. I’m not sure about Charlie but we will leave it that way for now.”

Edward grimaced. He knew how much this must hurt her even though she wasn’t showing it on the outside. He had seen the same reactions from Bella when he first told her he was a vampire.

Alice continued to hug Hailey, hoping she could draw the hurt out.

“Alice.” Carlisle continued. “Why don’t you let Hailey rest in your room. It will be a long night.”

Alice nodded and led Hailey up to her room.

The minute Hailey entered Alice’s room, she was in awe. There was no bed in her room, which was weird. Against one of the walls was a huge red couch with giant pillows. There were shelves and shelves of books, movies and cds lining the two opposite walls. A wide screened television hung on the wall opposite the couch. Huge windows lined the far walls, bringing in the bright evening sun through the room. One thing that stood out in the room was a dresser with a huge mirror. Make-up, brushes, combs and an assortment of hairsprays were sitting on top of the dresser. A small table beside the dresser held the only stereo in the room.

Hailey turned to Alice and smiled. She walked over to the couch and arranged the pillows. She then motioned for Hailey to lie down.

“I’ll go find you a blanket.”

Hailey lay down on the couch. It was as soft as a cloud. No one could lay on it without falling asleep; Hailey was no exception. The minute her head hit the pillow, she fell into a deep sleep. She didn’t even notice when Alice came back with a blanket.

She slept like she hadn’t slept for years. The day drained her energy and all she wanted to do was erase it from her mind but she knew that is wasn’t going to happen.

~*~

“She’s asleep now.” Alice announced when she came back downstairs.

“Good. She’ll need the rest.” Esme spoke for the first time that night.

“I did some more research on Hailey’s condition. My biggest concern is her heart. I would like to take her to the hospital and do an MRI on her heart. Just to see what her capacity is.” Carlisle said.

“Do you think it will be different than a regular human?” Alice asked.

“Yes. She is only half human. The vampire side of her hasn’t been fed. I’m concerned that as she continues to grow her heart will eventually fail.”

“That’s serious.” Edward’s eyes narrowed.

“Indeed it is. If that were to happen, the only way to save her would be to turn her into a full vampire. I would never let her just die.”

Carlisle started at Rosalie as if he sensed what she was thinking. She did not like Hailey and everybody knew it.

“What are we going to do about this rogue vampire?” Edward said while changing the subject.

Everyone turned to Alice, hoping she had seen something in the future.

“I haven’t seen anything. He has eluded my thoughts.” Alice shook her head in dismay.

“I think it is time that Bella and Charlie are informed. We can’t keep them out of the loop.” Edward grimaced as he spoke knowing the complications if Charlie were to find out about them.

“No. That is not the best action. At least not until Jasper gets back from Texas. I’d rather have all the facts and not bits and pieces.”

“Agreed.”

It was at that moment that someone’s cell phone rang. It was Edward’s. He looked at the caller id. It showed clearly that is was Bella. Sighing he answered it.

“Hi Bella.”

“Not yet.”

“She’s sleeping.”

“Carlisle doesn’t know yet.”

“I will.”

“Promise.”

“Love you too.”

“Bye.”

Rosalie rolled her eyes. Edward glared at her, his eyes turning coal black in agitation.

“Charlie has been asking questions. He wants to know what’s wrong with Hailey.”

“I knew this would happen!” Rosalie raised her voice. “She’s going to blow our cover.”

“No, she won’t Rose.” Esme said calmly.

“She doesn’t, Rose.” Alice smiled.

Rosalie cursed under her breath and stormed out of the room.

Carlisle sighed. There was nothing he could do to change how Rosalie felt about humans. He just left it as that. There was much more to be worried about at this moment.

~*~

Bella hung up the phone softly. She couldn’t get much out of Edward. Something was wrong with Hailey. She was worried and so was Charlie. He sat at the kitchen table drumming his fingers on the hard wooden surface.

“What did he say?” Charlie said with urgency in his voice.

“Nothing has changed. Carlisle doesn’t know what caused the lightheadedness. Hailey is resting now, though. Maybe she was just worn out.”

Bella knew what really happened but she couldn’t tell Charlie. She looked at her father and smiled.

“I wouldn’t trust her in any other hands.”

Charlie nodded his head.

“That is true. I know Carlisle will take good care of her. I can’t help but worry. It’s a father thing.

“I know dad. I know.”

~*~

A few days past but there was no change. Jasper still hadn’t returned. Hailey was starting to have problems with passing out even after going on short walks with Alice. Carlisle wouldn’t let her go to school for that very reason. This annoyed Hailey because she wanted to be among friends. She especially missed Bella and Charlie. Edward would constantly go over the Swan’s house without Hailey. Carlisle was afraid that if she went back that Charlie would not let her return to the Cullen’s. The reason behind this was because if you looked at Hailey, you wouldn’t notice how sick she really was. On the outside she looked free of illness but everyone knew the opposite to be true.

“Jasper is coming back!” Alice yelled while running up the stairs to the porch of the Cullen’s home. Hailey was sitting one of the chairs on the wide porch with her eyes closed. The sun had just reached its peak for the day and she was letting the rays beat down on her face. It felt good to be outside and in the quiet of the forest that surrounded the house but that didn’t last long. She popped open one of her eyes and stared at Alice who was now leaning over her, blocking the sun.

Hailey sighed. “When?” she asked. Though she loved Alice dearly, almost like a sister, the seeing the future thing was getting kind of old.

“Tomorrow. He’s bringing someone with him too. I can’t see the face though.”

“Wonderful.” Hailey said sarcastically.

“You should really change that attitude of yours Hailey.” Edward suddenly appeared beside Alice. “I think Rosalie is rubbing off on you.”

“Bite me.”

“Now now.” Alice scolded. “I think someone needs to go shopping. Come on Hailey.”

Alice grabbed Hailey’s hand and started to drag her towards the garage. They were stopped on the steps by Emmett.


“Hey! Can I come?” He grinned like he usually did.

Hailey always felt a little uneasy around Emmett. She didn’t know why. She liked him of course but then there was the issue of Rosalie. Nobody touched Emmett, everybody knew that. Emmett was Rosalie’s but she wondered if Rosalie was Emmett’s.

“I think you would be bored, Emmett. We are going shopping for clothing.”

“I could give advice. You may not think it, Alice, but I am a good judgment of attire.”

“Alright but you will need to behave yourself.” Alice waved her finger like she was scolding a 5 year old child.

Emmett just grinned wider.

“Carlisle wanted me to go anyway.”

“Alice, do we have to? I don’t need new clothes.”

“Oh yes you do. Besides I am going to pay for them.”

“Good luck with that one Hailey.”

Edward laughed as Alice, Hailey and Emmett walked over to the garage.

~*~

Alice decided to take Edward’s Volvo. They were going to Port Angeles which was a much bigger town then Fork’s. There were many stores including the clothing store where Alice was taking Hailey.

She couldn’t believe that Emmett was going with them. How embarrassing that was.

“Come on Hailey.” Alice chided.

Hailey rolled her eyes but followed Alice into the store, Emmett following close behind them.

Before she knew it, Hailey was in the dressing room with piles of clothes. A majority of the outfits, surprisingly, was picked out by Emmett. Hailey knew that there was no way she would escape out of this predicament so she decided just to humor them.

After trying on many different styles she picked out one whole outfit. Alice wanted her to pick more outfits but Hailey forbid it. One was enough. The shirt was a tight fitting purple spaghetti strap top. For the pants, Hailey picked out a slimming pair of jeans. Emmett had found a short cropped denim jacket to put on top of the shirt. The shoes were a challenge because Hailey had very flat feet. The shoes were also Emmett’s choice – a pair of mid-calf leather boots.

Though she did not enjoy shopping for clothing, Hailey loved this new style. Alice made her keep the outfit on; putting the clothes she wore there in a shopping bag. Alice originally wanted to take Hailey out to dinner but by the time they were finished clothes shopping Hailey was feeling worn out. She was embarrassed that she was feeling this way all the time but at least she was around people who loved her – or at least she hoped they liked her.

By the time they arrived back at the Cullen’s home, a surprise was waiting for them. Jasper had returned with the visitor Alice had seen in her vision. Jasper and the visitor were waiting patiently on the porch. They got up out of their seats once they saw Alice pulling into the garage. Hailey knew immediately that this man was a vampire like the rest of the Cullen’s. She felt like she knew him but didn’t know from where.

Alice was the first to run up to them, giving Jasper a small hug.

“Welcome home!” She said excitedly.

Jasper smiled and kissed Alice lightly on her cheek. He then turned towards his visitor.

“Hailey, this is Nicholas Roth.” Jasper paused. “Your brother.”

Hailey took a step back from Nicholas. She was in shock. To find out she has a brother but not only that. He is a full vampire.

“Hailey, I am glad to finally meet you.” Nicholas smiled sweetly.

“I am honored as well.” Hailey said in return, not swaying for a minute. “I believe there is much to talk about now.”

“Yes. Much.”

Nicholas shocked Hailey even more when he reached out his hand to take hers. For the first time since Hailey heard the news about who she was, she was happy. Hailey smiled and took Nicholas’ hand.

Jasper and Alice led them into the house with Emmett following closely.

Carlisle stood up when they walked into the room. He knew that Jasper was bringing someone back with him but to see that person holding Hailey’s hand, it shocked him.

“Jasper. Who have you brought?” Carlisle asked him as he entered the room.

“Carlisle, this is Nicholas Roth. He is Hailey’s brother.”

With this little information Carlisle understood the connection. He knew they were twins without even asking.

“Welcome Nicholas.” He nodded towards the visitor.

“Thank you.”

Nicholas sat down on the couch, still holding onto Hailey’s hand. It was as if he didn’t want to let her go now that he found her. Hailey obediently sat down next him.

“I assume everyone here is trustworthy because I trust Jasper.” Nicholas spoke.

“You can trust everyone, Nick. They are my family.” Jasper confirmed.

“Alright.”

Nicholas turned to face Hailey who seemed to still be a little bit confused at the notion of having a brother.

“Hailey, I know you don’t understand about this whole situation but I hope with what I am going to say, that it will clear up some questions.”

Hailey nodded her head. “Please. Tell me.”

“Alright. We were born into a vampire family. It was a crazy situation. Our father is a full vampire and our mother was like you are – half vampire and half human.”

“Our mother was?”

“Yes. She died giving birth to us.”

“Oh.” Hailey bowed her head in dismay.

“Our father is still alive…somewhere…I was never able to find him. He is the one that separated us after our mother died. As far as I can gather he put us in different orphanages to keep us apart.”

“Did he not love us?”

“I do not know if that was the case or not. I can only assume that he didn’t want us around as a memory of our mother.”

Anger welled up inside of Emmett. “How could anyone get rid of a child or children just because of a memory?” He thought.

“What are your parent’s names?” Alice piped up.

“Titus and Angeline Mortenson.” Nicholas plainly responded.

“Angeline is a beautiful name.” Hailey said out loud. The thought finally hit her so much that tears began to fall down her cheeks. She continued to bow her head, not wanting everyone to know her sorrow. The only person she knew would know was Jasper. She tried to get a grip on her feelings but the pain did not stop. She let go of Nicholas’ hand, got up and swiftly departed the room. She opened the door to go outside and slammed the door behind her.

“Well, that went well.” Nicholas said after the door slammed.

“It’s not your fault Nicholas.” Carlisle encouraged him. “She’s just been through a lot in the last few days.”

“I understand.”

Emmett was annoyed that nobody seemed to care that Hailey was in distress. His eyes turned coal black in agitation and snarled at everyone in the room. He left from where he stood by the staircase and headed towards the door, only to be stopped by Alice.

“What do you think you are doing?” Alice asked him.

“She shouldn’t be outside alone. Not when there is a rogue vampire out to kill her.”

“That’s not what I wanted to know and you know it.”

“I haven’t the slightest idea what you are referring to Alice.”

“Oh I think you do. I saw it. You are falling in love with her. Do you even know what that would possibly do to her, to you, to Rose and to the rest of the family?”

Emmett crossed his arms and sighed. He knew that Alice was right but he couldn’t help but love Hailey. If it wasn’t a romantic love then at least a brotherly love. He just wanted Hailey to be happy.

“You aren’t the only one who feels that way Emmett.” Alice smiled and put a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

He smiled back and turned back towards the room.

~*~


After slamming the front door, Hailey stopped on the porch. There was a full moon tonight and she thought that she heard a wolf howl in the distance. She truly felt like she was in the wild. The tears had finally stopped falling but it didn’t stop how she felt inside.

She slowly walked down the porch stairs and started walking towards the forest edge. It was very still and quiet at night. This would have scared her if she didn’t have many thoughts going through her head.

Hailey thought she heard someone coming and she quickly turned around. She focused her eyes on the house and the surrounding trees but she saw nothing. Taking a deep breath she decided it was time to head back to the house. It was then that a familiar voice erupted into her mind.

“Well, Hailey, I didn’t think you would be out tonight and alone.”

“You!”

“Oh yes. Did you really think I wouldn’t come?”

This time the voice was as clear as day. She swiftly turned around and came face to face with the voice.

He grinned ear to ear as he stood before Hailey. He was tall for being a vampire, even taller than Edward. His long, auburn hair flowed over his shoulders. He wore all black clothing, which Hailey assumed was to conceal him in the forest. She wanted to run away but there was something that made her hesitate.

He started to reach for her and that was when all hell broke loose. Hailey screamed at the top of her lungs but was only able to get a few decibels out. The vampire reached around her and wrapped his arm around her neck while covering her mouth with his free hand.

“I’m going to die.” Hailey thought. The thought did not fall upon deaf ears. With a family like the Cullen’s, this was impossible.

~*~

The scream echoed in the ears of Emmett. His senses went wild. He turned to Edward who was now standing. Edward’s eyes had turned black. He had heard something too.

“Alice…” Edward started to say but Emmett had already bolted out the front door. Hailey was in trouble.

They all followed Emmett swiftly. When they arrived outside, Emmett was standing a few feet away from a figure in black. This person held Hailey in a forceful grasp. He had a hand over her mouth.

Edward, Jasper and Nicholas all flanked Emmett. They knew for a fact that this was the rogue vampire who wanted to kill Hailey.

“Well, if it’s not the Cullen boys.” The intruder said.

Emmett growled at the mention of their name.

Carlisle was the only one who seemed to handle it sensibly.

“You are?”

“What is it to you?”

Emmett looked like he was getting ready to pounce. Carlisle gently placed a hand on Emmett’s shoulder, preventing him from attacking.

“I think it is important to know who to refer you as.”

“Ah. Sensible Cullen.” He commented. “My name is Marcus Delacroix.”

“So, tell us, Marcus. What do you have against our Hailey?”

Marcus looked down at Hailey and scowled.

“Do you not know what she did?”

Carlisle glanced at Nicholas.

“We know of her situation.”

“Do you now? Then you know she killed Angeline.”

“You are mistaken.” Nicholas spoke up.

“And who are you? You aren’t a Cullen.”

“No, I am not. I’m Nicholas Roth, Hailey’s twin brother. You threaten her, you threaten me.”

“Twin, eh? Well that really does change things.”

Marcus shifted his weight to get a better hold on Hailey. What surprised him was that she was not struggling to get free. “Maybe there is something special about this girl after all.” He thought.

“Angeline was my friend. I was going to marry her until that idiot Titus came around.” Marcus scowled with the memory. “It was bad enough that Angeline wasn’t a full vampire.”

“Neither is Hailey!” Edward interrupted.

“My point exactly.”

He leaned down towards Hailey’s neck, sniffing.

“You smell wonderful though…just like your mother.”

“Touch her and you die.” Emmett growled at Marcus.

“I’d like to see you try.” Marcus laughed.

Hailey looked over at Emmett with pleading eyes. “Don’t let him hurt me.” She sent the thought to Edward.

Emmett looked over at Edward and they both nodded their heads.

In a moment, Marcus had edged closer to Hailey’s neck. He bared his teeth and prepared to strike. He bit down roughly and blood started to trickle down her neck.

Time stood still.

Emmett had Marcus on the ground in a split second. Hailey was still caught in his arms. Edward ran over and pried Marcus’ arm off Hailey while Nicholas pulled her away. Carlisle was there by his side instantly and gently lifted her up into his arms. He swiftly carried her towards the house.

Emmett and Edward released Marcus, letting him rise from where he laid on the ground.

“Leave while you have the chance.” Emmett warned.

“Why let me go?” Marcus managed to ask.

“Today is not your day to die but trust me, your day will come.” Jasper hissed.

Emmett, Jasper, Edward and Nicholas all watched as Marcus fled into the forest – disappearing into the darkness.

They turned when they knew Marcus was gone and rushed back to the house to see how Hailey faired.

~*~

Alice, Esme and Rosalie were all waiting in the house when Carlisle came rushing in with Hailey in his arms. Blood was gushing from the bite in her neck. Carlisle rushed Hailey up the stairs towards Alice’s room.

“Alice! Get my bag.” He yelled. “Esme, get me a towel from the bathroom. We have to stop the blood.”

Alice and Esme did as they told.

Carlisle gently laid Hailey on Alice’s couch. He pressed his fingers on the wound until Esme ran in with a towel.

Hailey stared at Carlisle, her face void of expression. The reality had hit her like a stone wall. She had almost died. She felt no pain.

“He did not bite you deep enough to do damage.” Carlisle encouraged her as he pressed the towel on her neck.

The blood had finally stopped flowing enough that Carlisle could remove the towel. He reached for his bag and pulled out a bottle of some kind of liquid. Along with the bottle, he grabbed a syringe.

“Hailey, I’m going to give you some morphine so I can stitch up the wound. Alright?”

Hailey swallowed and nodded her head. The slight movement made her dizzy. She slowly blinked her eyes and hoped it would cease. She had been scarred physically and emotionally and that was something that would never leave.

Carlisle filled the syringe with morphine and injected it into her arm. Hailey felt the rush of the liquid as it went up her arm and into her neck. Her eyes began to feel heavy and the last thing she felt was Carlisle putting a needle in her neck to begin the stitches.

Consciousness left her as she heard voices in the distance.

~*~

“It wasn’t your fault, Alice.” Edward reassured her.

“I just don’t understand why I didn’t see him.”

The Cullen’s were sitting at the dining room table. This was where they always had meetings since they didn’t make use of the table to eat.

Alice was sitting next to Jasper, who had his arm around her shoulder. Edward sat across from Alice. His expression was that of sympathy, not only for Alice but for Hailey as well.

“He might have a way to shield himself from detection.” Carlisle spoke.

“Is that possible?” Rosalie asked. She was sitting next to Emmett but neither of them touched each other.

“There have been stories of those who have the ability to project shields around themselves. That is the way they can sneak in without their presence being known.”

“That’s going to be a problem.” Emmett was concerned with Hailey’s continued safety.

“Yes and that is why, from now on, one of you will always be with her.”

Carlisle turned to Jasper, looking him in the eyes.

“Jasper, you have the first watch.”

Jasper nodded his head and departed from the table. He proceeded to go up the stairs to Alice’s room, where Hailey rested.

He opened the door to Alice’s room and peeked in. Hailey lay on the couch, on her back, by one of the big windows. A soft red blanket lay on top of her. Her slow breathing made the blanket rise and fall. Hailey’s face glistened in the morning sun as its rays came in the window.

Jasper opened the door all the way and entered in. He softly closed the door behind him. As he got closer to Hailey, he could see the bandage on her neck. The soft cotton showed a tint of pink as the blood had seeped through the night. He tensed at the sight of the blood. Being the youngest vegetarian of the Cullen’s, he still had difficulty being around human blood. He was more at ease, though, knowing that this was Hailey. He always seemed at peace while around her.

Jasper went to the balcony window and stared into the forest. His agitation grew at the thought that just last night Marcus had almost killed Hailey. The whole family felt it including Nicholas. Nicholas was family of course and so was Hailey.

A small moan interrupted his thoughts and startled him. He turned around and glanced at Hailey. Her face was contorted into a grimace of pain but she was still asleep. This worried Jasper.

“She must be dreaming.” He thought. “I hope she isn’t in physical pain.”

Hailey gasped and woke up with a start. Her eyes fluttered open only to see Jasper standing above her.

“Hailey…are you alright?”

“I…think so.” She stuttered. “My neck hurts a little.”

Jasper frowned.

“Does it pain you to be around me?” Hailey asked.

“No.”

“You’re lying to me.”

“I would never lie to you, Hailey.”

“I can feel your emotions, Jasper.”

Jasper was in shock. Nobody had ever been able to feel his emotions. It was normally the other way around.

“How is that possible?”

“I don’t know…I just can.”

“That’s…interesting.” Jasper responded.

“It’s nothing special.” Hailey shook her head to clear her mind.

“It is quite the opposite. I’m the only other vampire who has that ability.”

“I don’t know how to control it. It just comes.”

“That is something I could teach you to do, with practice.”

“Seriously?”

Jasper nodded his head.

Hailey was confused. From all she was told about Jasper, he wasn’t one to be open to discussing things. He usually kept to himself. This made Hailey feel good inside. Maybe she was welcome here after all.

After a moment of silence, Jasper smiled sweetly.

“I’ll go get Carlisle. He’ll want to check up on you.”

“Alright.” Hailey said.

Jasper left the room without another word, leaving Hailey to ponder what Jasper had said.

~*~

“Hailey is awake.” Alice announced as Jasper came down the stairs.

Carlisle got up from where he sat.

“That is good to hear. I’ll go check on her.”

Jasper put a hand on Alice’s shoulder. She looked up at him and smiled.

“I’m going to go visit Bella today.” Alice continued after Carlisle left the room.

Edward turned to look at her and glared.

“Don’t worry. I won’t tell her anything.”

Alice wasn’t too sure of her response for she saw clearly that it wouldn’t happen that way. This troubled her. Would she be able to control herself while around Bella? Bella will surely have many questions for her.

She looked back up at Jasper.

“Take good care of Hailey.”

Jasper smiled back.

“I will and so will each of us. She is family now.”

~*~

“Bella…”

Charlie was annoyed at Bella because she had done nothing but pout around the house all day. She hadn’t heard from Edward in a few days but Alice had just called and said she was coming over for a visit.

What?” She snapped.

“You should be happy that Alice is coming over…I am.”

“I am…I’m just annoyed that Edward hasn’t called me with a report on Hailey.”

“Well I am sure Alice will have one for us.”

“Hopefully.”

It was at that moment that a black car pulled up to the Swan house. Bella and Charlie knew exactly who it was. Alice had arrived.

“Bella! Charlie!” Alice waved at both of them as she got out of the car.

Bella ran up to Alice and gave her a big hug. It had seemed like they hadn’t seen each other for ages. Even though it had only been a week.

“It’s so good to see you Alice.”

“You too Charlie.” Alice smiled at him.

Bella didn’t waste any time to ask her the burning question.

“How is Hailey?”

“She’s doing…fine.” Alice gulped inside knowing what would happen to her, literally, if she told Bella how Hailey really was.

“She’s still a little bit weak. Carlisle thinks she was just tired from her trip and her immunity was down. It happens a lot when you are stressed or so he says.”

Alice laughed to try to lighten the mood, hoping that Bella would believe her and not ask more questions.

“Well, we all hope she gets better soon and can come back.” Charlie said in response.

“It’s all up to Carlisle I suppose.” Alice smiled.

“At least let me come to visit, Alice.”

“I don’t know, Bella. You will have to get Carlisle’s permission. He’s concerned because Hailey’s immunity is down that she’ll easily get sick.”

“Oh. Alright.”

Alice gave a sigh of relief. She was glad Bella didn’t push her further because she didn’t know if she could keep it in for a long period of time.

Suddenly Alice felt very uneasy and that quickly a vision came to her. Someone was coming that wasn’t human and she knew who it was.

“Oh dear.” She exclaimed.

“What?” Bella asked.

“Jacob Black is coming.”

Bella groaned. He always seemed to show up at the wrong time.

“Please don’t leave, Alice.”

“Don’t worry, Bella. I’m not going anywhere this time.”

“Edward is not going to like this.” Alice thought to herself.

A rumbling noise was heard coming down the street. It stopped as a truck parked outside the Swann home. A tall figure jumped out. He had long black hair that framed his tanned skin. It was Jacob Black, Bella’s friend since she was little. He lived in La Push, a small Quileute tribe reservation town.

There had been many stories about the Quileute but mostly that their ancestors descended from wolves. This causes Jacob and other of his tribe to shape shift into wolves. It had also been told that the Quileute are sworn enemies of the Cullen’s and other vampires. This made life difficult for Bella to have friends on both sides, but this was about to change.

“Hey, Bella!” Jacob called out.

Bella heard his greeting and came out of the house.

“Hi Jacob.” She smiled.

“Hope I’m not intruding.”

“No, I just have another visitor.”

It was at that moment that Alice appeared beside Bella. She stood tall with her arms crossed, glaring at Jacob.

“Jacob.” Alice greeted.

“Alice Cullen…” Jacob was clearly not pleased.

Jacob stopped and leaned against the railing of the porch. He frowned at Alice and then refocused his attention to Bella.

“Are you alright?”

“Yes. Why?” Bella questioned.

“Just wondering. Hey, didn’t you say your cousin was visiting?”

“Yes, Hailey. She is visiting.”



“Can I meet her?”

“Umm…not right now. She’s really sick at the moment.” Bella struggled out the words.

“Oh. I’m sorry. Maybe when she is better than.”

“Sure. I think she would like that.”

“Alright then. I just wanted to say hello.”

Jacob turned and headed back to his truck, yelling at Bella before he got in.

“See you later, Bella!”

Alice shook her head in disgust and followed Bella back into the house, hoping to enjoy the rest of the afternoon without interruption.

~*~

By the time that Carlisle had made it upstairs, Hailey had sat up and leaned against the pillows on the couch. She smiled as he came into the room.

“How are you feeling?” Carlisle asked.

“Better. I could use a shower, though.”

Carlisle laughed.

“I think that can be arranged. I’ll get Esme to help you.”

“Thank you.” Hailey smiled.

Carlisle nodded his head and proceeded to check the bandage on her neck. He removed the old bandage, cleaned the wound and finally put a fresh dressing on.

“It’s healing well. Just be careful not to move your head suddenly and rip the stitches.”

Before Hailey could respond, a commotion was heard coming from downstairs.

“Excuse me a minute, Hailey.”

“Of course.”

Carlisle left Alice’s room and headed downstairs only to be confronted with an argument between Emmett and Jasper.

“What do you mean I can’t have a turn?” Emmett growled at Jasper.

Jasper didn’t seem phased by Emmett’s anger. He stood facing Emmett with his arms crossed and a sincere expression on his face.

“You intimidate her.”

“Has she told you that?”

“No, but I’ve felt her emotions while you are around her.”

“That is not a good enough reason!” Emmett snapped.

“Boys!” Carlisle interrupted. “What is going on here?”

“I want a turn watching Hailey but Jasper, here, thinks I’m not qualified.” Emmett clenched his fists and scowled continually at Jasper.

“You aren’t.” Jasper responded coolly before Carlisle could speak. “I think only of her well being.”

“Her well being…?!” Emmett fumed.

“Stop it!” Rosalie interceded. “You are acting like school children.”

“Rosalie is right. If we are to survive through this without going insane then we will all take our equal turns.” Carlisle spoke with discernment.

Turning to look at Emmett, Carlisle nodded his head.

“You may have the next turn, Emmett.”

Emmett grinned widely and glared at Jasper. “That will teach you, Emo boy.” He thought to himself.

His joy didn’t last long before he got smacked in the back of the head. Emmett turned around to see Edward standing there, his eyes coldly staring. He had forgotten that Edward was still there and heard his thought.

Emmett frowned and wanted to hit Edward back but knew that wouldn’t get him anywhere.

“Sorry.”

He looked over at Carlisle and nodded his head. Carlisle headed back upstairs with Emmett closely following him.

~*~

“Hailey?” Carlisle called out as he entered Alice’s room. She was nowhere in sight. Emmett, who was behind Carlisle, was worried.

It was at that moment that Esme came in with a pile of clothes in her hands. She looked like she was on a mission.

“She’s in the shower. Nothing to worry about.”

“Oh. She told you then.” Carlisle remembered that Hailey had mentioned her desire to get a shower.

“Yes and I was more than honored to assist her.”

“Good. I’ll be back later. Emmett is here to take over for Jasper.”

Carlisle nodded his head and left Emmett and Esme alone.

“You will behave yourself.” She warned.

Emmett scowled. “Why does everyone think that I will take advantage of the situation?”

“Emmett…it has nothing to do with that. We just want to make sure she feels welcome here and not an imposition.”

“I know that Esme. Trust me.”

“I will and I do.”

Esme smiled and left the room. Emmett waited patiently while Hailey finished with her shower. The sun was getting lower in the sky as it began to set for the evening. He closed his eyes and remembered what Esme had said. She was right. He needed to settle down while he was around her. He didn’t mean to intimidate her.

The sound of a door opening took him out of his reverie. He turned to see Hailey in the doorway. She wore her new pair of jeans that Alice had bought her. As a top she wore a white tank top. Her pale toes were painted a bright red which glistened from the light of the room. Hailey stared at Emmett, her hair dripping from the shower in miniscule drops. She held a white towel in her left hand and in her right hand she held a brush.

Instantly Emmett felt his cheeks flush as she grinned at him.

“Emmett.”

“Hailey…” Emmett choked out.

“Do you mind?” Hailey asked while pointing towards Alice’s mirror.

“No, go right ahead.”

Emmett moved out of Hailey’s way as she walked over to the mirror. She used the towel on her damp hair to get as much moisture out as she could. She then took the brush and combed it out.

Emmett continued to stare at her while she finished with her hair.

“There. So…what are we going to do now?” Hailey turned to face Emmett.

“I…I don’t know.”

For the first time in his life, Emmett felt nervous around her. He wasn’t intimidating her, she was intimidating him.

“Can we go for a ride?” Hailey questioned.

“Carlisle won’t allow it.”

Hailey frowned.

“Why not? I’m feeling much better.”

“He doesn’t want you out in the open. Marcus is still out there.”

Hailey scowled.

“Carlisle can’t keep me cooped up in here for the rest of my life or until somebody kills Marcus.”

Hailey turned away from Emmett and headed towards the door. She grabbed her jean jacket that lay on the couch as she walked past.

“Where are you going?” Emmett tried to stop her but she was too determined.

“I’m going to go change Carlisle’s mind, that’s where I am going.”

“Hailey…wait.”

Emmett went to grab Hailey’s arm but she was too fast for him. She was out the door and going down the hall before he could stop her. She had stopped right before Carlisle’s office but was facing the stairs. Someone stood before her.

“Nicholas!” Hailey said. “Where have you been? I’ve missed you.”

She gave her brother a big hug. He did not return the hug but had a scowl on his face.

“What do you think you are doing?” Nicholas questioned.

“I want to get out of this house for a while.”

“Don’t you see that this family is trying to protect you?”

“I know that. It’s not like I will be alone.”

Hailey pointed back at Emmett who had stopped right behind her.

“I don’t like it Hailey. I don’t want to lose you right after I found you.”

“You won’t lose me.” Hailey smiled. “I just need some fresh air.”

“To answer your question…I was in town. I bought you something to remember me and our family by.”

Nicholas pulled out a box from his pocket and handed it to Hailey. The box was dark black with a silver clasp holding it closed. Hailey slowly undid the clasp and opened to the box. Inside she found a silver necklace with a locket. She looked up at Nicholas and smiled.

“Open it.”

Hailey did as she was told. She opened the locket to find on one side a picture of Nicholas and on the opposite side a picture of Titus and Angeline, their parents.

“It’s beautiful Nicholas. Thank you.”

Nicholas nodded his head and pulled the necklace out of her hands.

“Allow me.”

Hailey turned around and allowed him to put the necklace around her neck.

“It’s beautiful, Hailey.” Emmett commented as she faced him. He no longer smiled but had a serious expression on his face. He looked like he was hurt that Nicholas gave her the necklace. She felt sympathy for him but she did not know why.

“Come on Emmett. We are going whether Carlisle likes it or not.”

Hailey grabbed his hand and pulled him down the stairs, her bare feet barely touching each wooden step. Emmett had a hard time keeping up and felt like he was going to trip.

Just as Hailey stepped on the bottom step the font door swung open. Standing there with his arms crossed was Edward. He had heard the whole conversation and knew Hailey’s plan.

Hailey scowled as she stopped in front of him, her hand still firmly grasping Emmett’s hand.

“Out of my way Edward.” Hailey hissed.

Edward kept silent. His gaze went to Emmett who stood behind her.

“If I were you, I would let her by.” Emmett thought.

Hailey gritted her teeth and clenched the fist of her free hand.

The mood in the room got colder the longer they stared at each other. The sun, which was previously shining through the windows, disappeared and the house got darker.

Edward couldn’t help but feel it and finally gave in.

“Have a nice ride.” He scowled but moved so Emmett and Hailey could walk by.

“We plan to.” Hailey said coldly as she walked past Edward to go outside.

The sun came back out of hiding and sent its warm rays back down upon the earth.

It was then that Emmett was able to release the grasp Hailey had on him.

“I don’t like this, Hailey.”

“It’ll be fine, Emmett. We are just going for a ride.”

Emmett shook his head in dismay, knowing he wouldn’t be able to change her mind.

He opened the garage and led her towards his jeep. He opened the door for Hailey and helped her into the seat. After making sure she was settled in her seat, he went to the driver’s side and hopped in. Emmett started the jeep and backed out, swinging around and headed down the drive way.

Hailey put her window down and let the wind air-dry her hair. It blew around in wispy movement. Her sweet smell enveloped Emmett. He held his breath in hopes that it wouldn’t bother him as much.

“Where do you want to go?” Emmett finally asked.

“Do you need to ask?”

“That isn’t a good idea.”

“I want to see Bella. If you don’t take me, I’ll walk.” Hailey’s eyes burned with fury.

Emmett deeply sighed.

He wanted to refuse her, but he didn’t have the will power.

Emmett turned his jeep down the road that the Swan’s lived on. He was surprised to see Edward’s silver Volvo parked out front.

“I know it’s not Edward.” He thought. “Alice must still be here.”

Emmett parked the jeep and jumped out. Hailey had already gotten out by herself. She smiled at Emmett and then headed towards the front door. Hailey went to knock on the door when it came open. Alice was standing there with Bella close behind her.

Alice glared at Emmett, knowing what he had done was wrong. Carlisle would be either angry or disappointed.

“Hailey!” Bella yelled.

Bella ran past Alice and gave Hailey a hug. She stopped when she saw the mark on Hailey’s neck.

“What happened?” Bella asked.

“Oh…it’s nothing. I fell outside and scraped my neck.”

Hailey looked into Bella’s eyes. She could see the doubt in her eyes. She decided to let it be and turned her gaze to Alice.

“Hey Alice.” Hailey said nonchalantly.

“You look much better.” Alice commented.

“I feel much better.”

“I’m surprised Carlisle let you out.”

Emmett coughed.

“He didn’t.”

Alice crossed her arms and turned her gaze back to Emmett.

“You are in big trouble Emmett.”

“He sure is.” A voice said from behind.

Carlisle and Jasper were standing a few feet away from where Emmett stood.

“Care to explain this…son?”

“It wasn’t his fault.” Hailey blurted out. “I forced him to take me.”

Jasper had an annoyed expression in his eyes.

“Hailey…that is unacceptable. We are leaving.”

Hailey stood fast, gripping her toes to the ground.

“You can’t make me!”

Emmett and Jasper, at that moment, flanked her. They each took an arm and lifted her up so her feet didn’t touch the ground.

“Bella. I’m sorry about this. Hailey isn’t well, mentally.” Carlisle said as they departed.

Emmett and Jasper put Hailey in the back of Carlisle’s car and slammed the door shut. Jasper sat in the front while Emmett went back to his jeep.

“I’ll have Edward call later, Bella.” Carlisle smiled as he got into his car.

“Alice, I expect you home immediately.” He said before shutting his door.

The Cullen’s drove off, leaving Bella confused on her porch.

The once peaceful existence at the Cullen home was now going to change.

~*~

The drive back to the Cullen home was quiet. The once bright sky was once again cloudy and dark. Hailey was in a bad mood and the atmosphere around her announced that fact. Carlisle and Jasper were not pleased with her nor were they pleased with Emmett.

Thoughts flooded her mind and she didn’t care if they were heard.

“They can’t keep me here.”

“Emmett did nothing wrong.”

“It was my fault, not his.”

“I should just run away.”

“I thought I was welcome here.”

“Nobody likes me. I’m just a weird freak of nature.”

Her thoughts were interrupted when Carlisle pulled into the driveway. Jasper came around to her side of the car and opened the door. She crossed her arms and refused to get out of the car. Hailey glared at Jasper and he tried to sooth her nerves but none of it was working. She was in control of her own emotions and nobody could change that.

Alice walked over to the car and put a hand on Jasper’s shoulder. He turned around and saw the pleading in her eyes. He moved to allow her to sit next to Hailey in the car.

“Hailey. Don’t do this.”

Hailey said nothing.

“We are trying to help you.”

“I don’t call this helping.” Hailey spoke quickly.

The darkness around them started to close in. Dark clouds rolled in as Hailey’s anger increased. Thunder started to roll in the distance but gradually increased around the Cullen’s house. The tinkling of rain was heard on the roof a minute later. The rain gradually increased into a down pour. Nobody moved from where they stood around the car.

Hailey looked outside to where Emmett, Jasper, Nicholas and Carlisle stood. None of them said a word. Edward, Esme and Rosalie were standing under the protection of the porch.

Alice laid a hand on Hailey’s leg, hoping she would settle down but that only made Hailey feel worse. The power that she had fueled on her anger and there was nothing anybody could do to stop her….or so she thought.

Lightening struck a tree nearby with a crack. It was getting closer but there was no fear in the Cullen’s eyes. Looking at Jasper, Hailey closed her eyes. She hated how calm he was…like nothing would shake him.

Suddenly a bolt of lightning came forth from the sky and struck the ground right beside Jasper. He never moved. He knew that she was causing this. His eyes narrowed and looked shiftily at her. This caused her to rethink what she was doing. She took in a deep breath and made herself calm. Opening her eyes, she turned to look at Alice and smiled.
The rain stopped. The clouds parted. A clear, night sky started to emerge. The stars twinkled brightly. Hailey looked at the North Star and hoped that it would guide her. Looking back at Alice, Hailey made a decision. She would face whatever was going to happen, no matter what the circumstance would be. She nodded her head at Alice and started to climb out of the car.

Emmett started to laugh.

“Did that make you feel better?” He chuckled.

Hailey scowled at him.

“No, it did not. I just realized that I can control myself in my actions and not cause pain for others.”

She turned to Carlisle and looked him in the eyes.

“Carlisle…I am sorry for what I did. Please forgive me.”

“We forgive you, Hailey. That is what a family is for.”

Carlisle smiled and leaned over to Hailey and gave her a kiss on her cheek.

Nicholas came over and gave her a hug. He understood what she was going through but was amazed at her power. He took her hand in his and led her back into the house. There was much to discuss about not only her but what the next action would be concerning Marcus. He was still out there somewhere and who knew when he would emerge again.

~*~

As soon as Emmett made it up on the porch Rosalie took him aside.

“I know what you are thinking.” He said.

“Do you now.” Rosalie scowled. “Why did you do it?”

“I didn’t have a choice! She would have gone to Bella’s with or without me and there was no way I was keeping her out of my sight!”

Rosalie sighed.

“Fine.” Rosalie placed a hand on his arm and looked sympathetically in Emmett’s eyes. “Just don’t let it get farther then that.”

“Babe, I love you. I will never stray away from that.”

For once in quite some time Rosalie smiled.

“Come on. Let’s go see what the others are discussing.”

Emmett took Rosalie’s hand and walked into the house.

~*~

Hailey still felt uneasy as she sat around the dining room table. Nicholas had a comforting arm around her. Jasper sat across from her. He was trying hard to put her at ease. He was also curious about her power. She had the same power as him but it was strong enough to control weather depending on what kind of mood she was in.

Carlisle furrowed his eyebrows as he began to discuss Hailey’s predicament.

“I have never seen a power like yours, Hailey. It seems like you have the ability to control the weather with your moods but also change the mind of others. This isn’t something to take lightly. You could unintentionally hurt someone if you are angry.”

Carlisle glared at Emmett as he walked into the room. He kept his focus for only a second and then turned back to Hailey.

“I think if we were to learn more about this power and how to control it, the danger would decrease.”

He looked over at Jasper.

“Jasper, would you be willing to take Hailey under you wing, so to speak. You can teach her how to control her mind and keep herself calm in tense situations.”

“Of course. It would be my pleasure.” Jasper said calmly.

“Good. Emmett, I want you to tag along too. Just so there is more then one pair of eyes on the forest. Marcus could pop out of nowhere and with his ability to shield himself, the danger is increased.”

Emmett nodded his head and agreed.

“What are we going to do about Bella?” Alice asked matter of fact. “She’s on her way here.”

“Whose idea was that?” Rosalie scowled.

“No one’s. She decided it on her own after the incident with Hailey. She wants answers to her questions.”

“I think it is time that she is told, otherwise she won’t leave it alone.” Carlisle said. He turned to Edward and nodded his head.

“Edward, tell her in a gentle way and then take her out back with Jasper and Emmett so she can see what Hailey can do.”

Carlisle finally looked back at Hailey and smile.

“Hailey, this will be hard for you to learn to control yourself but Jasper knows what he is doing. Listen to him and do exactly what he says to do. Alright?”

“I will.”

“And try not to hurt anyone.” Alice reminded her.

Hailey grimaced.

“I will try my hardest.”

“I know you will.” Alice smiled. “You are in good hands.”

~*~

Bella had made up her mind that she was going to the Cullen’s. She was tired of waiting around for answers that would never come. She also knew that Alice would see that she was coming. This didn’t bother one bit. There was something a miss with Hailey and she just needed to know.

She drove her truck up their driveway and saw a figure standing outside the front door. It was Edward, of course. She parked her truck and got out. Bella slowly walked over to where Edward stood.

He smiled, like he normally did when she was around him.

“Hi Bella.”

“Edward.”

“We expected you.”

“I figured as much. You probably know why I’m here too.”

“Yes.” Edward took Bella’s hand and started walking towards the door. “Carlisle said it is time for you to know what has been going on with Hailey.”

“It’s about time.” Bella retorted.

Edward led her into the house and sat down in the living room. Nobody else was around. They had left to give Edward and Bella privacy. Jasper and Emmett had taken Hailey out back to start her training. Carlisle was needed at the Hospital. Esme, Rosalie and Alice were out hunting. This left Edward totally alone in the house.

“There is something you should know about Hailey.” Edward said while looking Bella directly in her eyes. “She isn’t fully human.”

“What is that supposed to mean?”

Edward paused, a serious look on his face.

“Hailey is half vampire.”

Bella sucked in a deep breath.

“I figured as much by how you were all treating her. The mark on her neck got me more curious.”

“She may be only half vampire but her talents are stronger then any vampire we’ve known.”

“Is this something to be worried about?”

“Yes. That is why we are in the process of training her how to use her powers for good instead of bad.”

Bella pondered for a minute at what Edward was saying. Hailey was different and she was curious about how Hailey ended up this way.

“Hailey’s father is a vampire but her mother was half human like she is.” Edward interceded. “Hailey also has a brother who is here right now.”

Edward nodded his head towards the hallway. Bella turned to see Nicholas standing in the entryway to the living room.

“Bella, this is Nicholas Roth, Hailey’s brother.”

Bella stood up and shook Nicholas’ hand.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you Nicholas.”

“You as well, Bella. Hailey speaks very highly of you. I thank you for taking care of her.”

Bella smiled.

Edward stood up and joined Bella and Nicholas.

“Now, Bella, we are to go meet Hailey in the forest. There is something you need to see.” Edward smiled at Bella and started to walk towards the back door. He held open the door as Bella and Nicholas followed him outside. They then slowly started to walk into the darkness of the forest.

~*~

“Hailey, you need to focus in your mind what you want to do.”

Jasper sat on a tree stump instructing Hailey on control. Emmett was a few feet away leaning against a tree. Hailey stood in the middle of the clearing with her eyes closed.

He wanted her to control her emotions but be able to use the powers for good. It wasn’t easy, as Carlisle had told her.

She focused her mind on rain.

A few clouds started to roll in.

“That’s it, Hailey.” Jasper encouraged her.

More clouds rolled in as Hailey tried to keep her emotions on a high awareness. Suddenly Hailey felt a few droplets of rain on her face. She smiled and opened her eyes. A gentle rain began to pour down.

Jasper smiled. He felt a joy that Hailey had accomplished her first lesson.

Hailey noticed that Emmett had moved from where he stood to stand in front of her. She turned her focus to where Emmett was looking. Someone was coming.

Jasper tensed but then relaxed as he saw who was coming.

Hailey focused her eyes and saw that Edward and Nicholas were leading someone down the path towards them. Hailey smiled as she saw that it was Bella.

The rain continued to fall.

“What strange weather we are having.” Bella said out loud.

Hailey laughed and gave Bella a hug.

“It’s so good to see you Bella, without being forced to leave.”

“I know, right?”

“I’m assuming that Edward told you everything now?” Hailey questioned while looking at Edward.

“Yes, he did but he has yet to tell me what your talent is.”

“Oh…well…you are looking at it.”

Bella looked around but didn’t see anything.

Everyone started to laugh.

“Let me show you more clearly.” Hailey said while laughing.

Edward had Bella sit down on the tree stump Jasper had been sitting on. Everyone else gathered around her to give Hailey some room.

She closed her eyes again and focused on the storm.

Darker clouds rolled in. Thunder was heard in the distance. As it got closer Hailey made sure that her control was solid. She didn’t want to hurt anyone with the lightning.

Suddenly the sky lit up as bolts of lightning cracked everywhere.

Bella gasped as she realized what she was seeing.

“Hailey is controlling the weather with her mind.”

Edward smiled and gripped Bella’s shoulder, giving it a little squeeze.

Hailey frowned. This alerted Jasper. Her emotions were taking control of her mind. The sight of how Edward and Bella felt for each other annoyed her. She wishes she had someone like Edward.

The lightning started to get closer to the ground.

“Hailey?” Jasper verbally warned.

No matter how hard she tried, Hailey couldn’t control how she felt.

She looked over at Edward.

“Get her out of here.”

Edward took Bella’s hand and quickly led her back to the house. As soon as she left Hailey felt more at ease. She took a deep breath. Jasper walked over to where she stood and put a gentle hand on her shoulder.

“It’s alright. I know how it feels.”

Jasper was trying hard to soothe her nerves but it wasn’t working. Even her own methods of calming weren’t working.

“You have Alice. Emmett has Rosalie. Carlisle has Esme. And. And. Edward has Bella…”

Lightning struck a tree nearby.

“Who do I have?!”

Anger rose up in her heart and mind. Slowly Hailey collapsed to the ground and wept. She covered her head with her arms, to cover her feelings from Jasper and Emmett, who still stood by.

The storm rolled away and all that remained was a steady pouring of rain.

“Your time will come.” He comforted.

“You won’t be happy, Jasper.”

A voice was heard from behind them. Alice had suddenly emerged out of the forest and stood next to Jasper.

“Happy about what?”

“We found evidence that Marcus has lingered in the forest.”

Jasper narrowed his eyes, looking over at Emmett.

“Alright.” Emmett turned to Hailey. “Time to go back indoors.”

Hailey nodded her head and stood up; her wet hair framing her petite face.

Emmett led Hailey back towards the house. Jasper stayed back with Alice was they walked.

“What did you find?”

“There was evidence of a camp site. We found papers burned in a fire. Some of the remnants said Hailey’s name and that of her parents.”

Jasper’s head snapped up and looked ahead at Hailey. Hailey had frozen where she stood outside the back door.

“He’s here…somewhere.” Jasper looked at Alice.

Emmett had a firm grasp on Hailey’s arm.

“Hailey…what is wrong?”

~*~

Hailey was silent walking with Emmett. Marcus was still tracking her, but not viciously. He was following her every move…maybe just a little bit curious about her.

As she reached the back door, she had the same feeling as she had previously felt when Marcus entered her mind. He was invading her mind again.

“Hailey…what a change in you. You’ve become strong, just like your mother. I should have figured you would have the same powers as her – yet much stronger.”

There was a pause.

“Don’t listen to any of the Cullen’s. They lie to you. They want to use you and your power for their own good. Don’t let them tie you down. Get away.”

“Remember what I tell you.”

“I shall find you…soon.”

A guttural laugh erupted in her mind before Marcus let her physically go.

Hailey gasped and took a cautious step forward. Emmett still had a grasp on her so she didn’t fall. He looked down at her with concern on his face.

“I hate it when he does that.” Hailey growled.

“You aren’t the only one.” Emmett said as he led her safely inside. Jasper and Alice quickly followed.

Carlisle was waiting for them in the alcove between the kitchen and the living room.

“What just happened?” He inquired. “Edward had to take Bella home.”

“I got irritable.” Hailey snapped. “I didn’t want to hurt Bella.”

“Understandable.”

“She was also invaded by Marcus again.” Emmett said matter-of-factly.

Carlisle turned to Hailey.

“What did he say this time?”

Hailey frowned.

“He said I’m just like my mother but stronger. Also that I shouldn’t listen to what any of you say because you will lie to me and just use my power.”
“That’s just to draw you far away from us so he can attack you.” Jasper commented.

Carlisle thought for a minute.

“I think it is about time that I asked what I had planned to ask.”

Everyone looked at Carlisle with curiosity.

“Hailey and Nicholas – Esme and I would like for you to join our family; to be in the safety of the Cullen Coven.”

“Seriously?” Hailey asked excitedly.

Carlisle smiled.

“Yes.”

Hailey looked over at Nicholas and looked in his eyes for an answer. Nicholas smiled and nodded his head.

“We would be honored.” He said.

“Good!” Carlisle gave Hailey a big hug and shook Nicholas’ hand. “We have gifts for you then.”

Esme, who had just appeared, handed Hailey a box and Nicholas a box.

“I know that Nicholas just gave you that necklace.” Carlisle pointed to Hailey’s locket around her neck. “But we hope you will wear this one instead.”

Hailey opened the box and found a different locket. It was beautiful engraved with the Cullen Crest. She flipped it open to find two blank spots for pictures.

“I’ll just transfer my pictures to this one.” She smiled. Carefully she removed Nicholas’ necklace and popped out the picture of her parents and of Nicholas. Hailey then placed those pictures in her new locket.

Hailey then looked over at Nicholas and handed him the necklace to attach around her neck. It lay in a perfect spot on her neck.

“It’s beautiful. Thank you.”

Hailey then turned to Nicholas to see what his gift was. He opened the box to reveal an arm band. It was the same ones that Edward, Emmett & Jasper wore. On the face of it was the Cullen Crest as well. Nicholas slipped it on and smiled. He was very proud to be part of a family now. Hailey was too. She felt like she did belong here and that she would be with them forever.

~*~

“Alice…where are we going?”

“In town…to celebrate!” Alice said with excitement.

It was the day after Hailey and Nicholas had become part of the Cullen family. Alice had planned to take them both out to celebrate. To Alice this meant shopping, of course. Everyone was coming except for Carlisle and Esme. It was just the Cullen kids. Jasper even came. Hailey was pleased.

Alice brought Hailey outside where Rosalie’s convertible and Emmett’s jeep was parked. They would need both vehicles to get into town. There was too many of them to fit in one car. Since protection was still on all of their minds, Emmett made Hailey and Nicholas ride in his jeep, which wasn’t a bad idea. She was accepted the protection now that she understood the danger.

“So, Emmett.” Hailey said as he climbed into the driver’s seat. He turned around and grinned. “Do you know what we are going to do?”

“Probably hang out at Alice’s favorite spot.”

“Where’s that?” Nicholas inquired.

“It’s a nice little outdoor restaurant. It serves the best soft serve ice cream in Forks.”

“Ice cream?”

The idea of a bunch of vampires eating ice cream confused Hailey but she was game.

“Sounds yummy.” Hailey smiled.

Emmett winked and turned back around. Rosalie had already pulled out of the driveway. Emmett quickly kept pace with her. The Cullen’s had no reservations when it came to driving and speed.

In a few minutes they were pulling down main street in downtown Forks. Not many people were around as it was a very cloudy day. Hailey was relieved that she didn’t have anything to do with the weather patterns today.

Emmett pulled up behind Rosalie. Hailey opened her door to see a few tables out in the open. Each of them had a checkered table cloth and a candle in the middle. From inside the restaurant Hailey could smell the aromas of grilled chicken and pasta. Italian food, oh how she loved it.

Alice and Jasper were already seated at one of the tables, holding hands. Rosalie sat next to Alice and waited for Emmett to come over to sit by her. He hovered by Hailey but she shooed him away. She didn’t need a body guard when she had Nicholas by her side.

Hailey sat a table nearby where the rest of the Cullen’s sat. Nicholas sat down beside her. He had the same grin that Emmett always showed her. Nicholas was a mystery to her. She wished they weren’t separated when they were little but she couldn’t change the past.

“Nick…do you regret what happened?” Hailey asked seriously.

“No. I mean I hate our father for what he did to us but I think it turned out better. He just wanted to protect us though his intentions may not of showed on the surface.”

Hailey nodded her head.

“I’m glad we can get to know each other now. For the longest time I felt like there was somebody connected to me but I didn’t know from where.”

Nicholas smiled.

“I felt the same way but as soon as I found out where I came from I knew that you were out there and that I needed to find you. It was just luck that Jasper found me when he did.”

Their conversation was interrupted as the rumble of a motorcycle came down the quiet main street. Hailey turned her head to the direction it was coming from. As soon as they got close enough Hailey could see that it was Bella with a young man. If Edward was here he would be thoroughly upset at Bella. She was riding with Jacob Black. The one person all of them knew was a deep rival of the Cullen’s.

Hailey did not know this of course.

She waved over at Bella as Jacob parked his bike right behind Emmett’s jeep. Before Hailey could get up to go over to Bella, Emmett was in front of her in a protective stance.

“Emmett…what’s the problem? It’s just Bella.”

Hailey walked right around Emmett and went over to Bella. Emmett scowled behind her back.

“Hey Bella. How are you doing?”

“Pretty good. Just taking a ride with Jacob.”

“Jacob?”

“Oh, I forgot you hadn’t met him yet.”

A tall young man stood behind Bella. His long black tresses lay gently on the tops of his shoulders. He smiled at Hailey.

“Hi Jacob.” Hailey reached out a hand. “I’m Hailey, Bella’s cousin.”

Jacob’s grip was strong and firm.

“It’s a pleasure, Hailey. Bella has told me a lot about you.”

“Oh, I hope nothing bad.”

Hailey laughed.

“All good. All good.”

Jacob grinned.

Hailey’s attention was side tracked by a sudden wave of emotions. The rest of the Cullen’s were uneasy about Jacob being there. She turned around to face Emmett and Jasper. Both of them had their arms crossed. Emmett continued to scowl but Jasper seemed calm.

Hailey turned back to Bella and tried to smile.

“Well, I’ll leave you two alone.” Hailey turned around and started to walk back to where the rest of the Cullen’s stood. She waved backwards at Bella and Jacob. “Nice to meet you, Jacob. See you soon, Bella.”

“What is your problem, Emmett?” Hailey asked as soon as Bella and Jacob were out of earshot.

“Jacob Black is from La Push. For centuries his relatives and ours have been rivals. They are werewolves.” Jasper answered.

“So you are saying that I will be in danger where ever I am?”

“Pretty much. Whatever you do, do not go to La Push.” Jasper warned.

Hailey understood but was still confused. She turned to face Nicholas and took his hand. They sat back down and were silent for the rest of the afternoon.

~*~

“You’re cousin is nice, Bella.” Jacob said as they walked down the street. He glanced back to the restaurant where Hailey sat. She was sitting with a young man around her age. They looked too much alike not to be related.

Bella smiled.

“She is very nice. She’s had a rough life. I was hoping she would be happy while she’s here and it seems the Cullen’s have made her feel very welcome.”

Jacob nodded his head and paused for a minute.

“I noticed the necklace she was wearing. It had the Cullen crest on it. Did she join them?”

“I have no idea. I haven’t really talked with her for a couple days.”

“Who was that young man with her?” Jacob finally inquired; his curiosity getting the best of him.

“Oh. I should have introduced you to him. That’s Nicholas, her brother. They were separated at birth and he just recently found Hailey. It’s been a very nice reunion for both of them. He hasn’t left her side.”

“I see.”

Jacob knew there was something different about Hailey. She smelled like the other Cullen’s and her brother. Hailey didn’t look like she was a vampire but there was no way to really know until he got to know her better. He planned on making that happen if only for Bella.

“Well, I think it’s about time I took you home. I have some things to do this evening.”

“Alright. Let’s go then. I wouldn’t want to keep you from your plans.” Bella smiled as they walked back to Jacob’s motorcycle. The sun started to set in the distance as she looked back at where Hailey was hanging out with the Cullen’s. They were all happy together and she hoped that she and Edward could have the same happiness.

~*~

“Jasper, I won’t stop seeing him just because you don’t agree with the situation.”

Hailey was standing in the living room of the Cullen’s house arguing her point with Jasper. She had been seeing Jacob for the past month and had grown to love him. He was kind and understanding with her, even though he knew what she was.

“He’s a danger to you and to us.” Jasper scowled.

“If you just would get to know him, you would understand.”

“I don’t wish to get to know him…none of us do. Now you know why we are frustrated with Bella for hanging out with him…and now you.”

“Then you will never understand him the way I do.”

Hailey turned and headed for the door.

“Where are you going?” Jasper demanded.

“I’m going for a ride.”

Jasper shook his head and crossed his arms across his chest.

“That’s another reason why Jacob Black is on our blacklist. He shouldn’t have given you a motorcycle to ride.”

“How else was I supposed to get around town…walk?”

“We would have gladly given you one of our cars, Hailey.”

“Not the same. I’ll see you later.”

Hailey walked out the door and headed outside. Her new motorcycle sat out front. It was bright red and smaller for her size. She put on her helmet and hopped on. She glanced back at the house only to see Jasper standing on the front porch, not very happy. Shaking her head she revved up the engine and took off down the driveway.

Hailey knew that Jasper knew where she was going but that didn’t bother her. She didn’t understand why they couldn’t learn to like Jacob. He was sweet enough.

It was a beautiful day. The sun was shining brightly which made her glad she packed her sunglasses. By the time she made it to La Push it was in the afternoon. The sun had reached its peak for the day. This was unusual for Washington but very enjoyable. The Cullen’s would probably be inside all day.

She turned into the Black’s driveway and parked her motorcycle. Jacob had heard her coming down the road and was waiting for her on the porch. He smiled and waved at Hailey. Hailey returned the smile as she removed her helmet and hung it off the handlebar.

“Hey Jacob.”

“Hailey, I didn’t expect to see you knowing how everyone feels about me.”

“Oh, they will get over it.”

Jacob grinned and took Hailey’s hand in hers.

“My friends are here. We are hanging out in the garage.”

“Cool. Are you going to introduce me or shall we just hang out here?” Hailey winked at Jacob.

“Of course I’m going to introduce you. I wouldn’t be a gentleman if I didn’t.”

Hailey laughed and let Jacob lead her around back. Jacob loved working in his garage, working on old cars and some bikes as well. As they reached the entrance to the garage Hailey noticed a group of young men, around Jacob’s age, hanging out.

They all turned when Jacob came in.

“Hey guys. Look who’s here.”

“Hailey Swan. We finally get to meet you!” One of them said.

“Hailey, this Sam, Quil, Embry, Paul and Jared.” Jacob announced as he pointed to each of them in turn.

“Nice to meet you.” Hailey said politely. “I hope Jacob hasn’t been saying anything bad about me behind my back.”

“Not too much.” Embry commented.

Hailey looked over at Sam and he had a frown on his face.

“You’re a Cullen.” He retorted, glancing at her necklace.

“Um…does that matter?” Hailey was beginning to feel nervous and tried not to think about what Jasper told her.

Jacob smacked Sam and gave him a shut-up look.

“Of course it doesn’t matter.” Embry said, scowling at Sam.

“Jacob, may I use your bathroom?”

“Sure. Just go in and it’s the first door on the right.”

“Thanks.”

Hailey needed to get a breather for a moment and decided that was the best course of action.

Jacob turned around and faced his friends.

“What do you think you are doing?” Sam asked Jacob when Hailey went into the house.

“She smells like one of them.” Quil commented.

“Hailey is nothing like them.” Jacob spat. “You have no idea what she is and what she is like.”

“Does it really matter? She needs to be removed from our sight.”

“Don’t you even think about hurting her or I swear I shall cut you down so fast that you won’t know what happened.” Jacob growled.

“We’ll see.” Sam retorted.

Hailey came back out at that moment and felt the tension in the air. She felt like she should leave to give them some time to relax.

“Jacob, it’s getting late. I should get back home before I’m worried about.”

Jacob turned to face her.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, positive.”

“Alright, I’ll walk you out front.”

Hailey nodded her head and started walking towards the front of the house where her motorcycle sat waiting.

“Don’t let them bother you. They are just sometimes too aggressive.” Jacob said as Hailey got on her bike.

“It’s alright, Jacob. I understand. I’ll come back tomorrow, ok?”

“Sure.” Jacob smiled, squeezing her hand. "Please drive safely."

"I will." Hailey smiled and squeezed his hand in return. Letting go, she started the engine and backed out Jacob's driveway. Hailey pulled out of the driveway and took off down the road. It would be a long ride back to Forks but at least the weather was decent.

By the time she arrived back at the Cullen’s, it was already dark. Jasper and Emmett were sitting on the porch waiting for her. They did not look very pleased.

Hailey didn’t say a word as she walked up to them and entered the house. She entered the living room and sat down with a huff. For once in her life she wished she was staying anywhere else but here. The mood running throughout the house was not very pleasant for her. Her emotions started to run high as Jasper and Emmett walked in and sat down on both sides of her.

“Are you alright?” Emmett finally asked to break the silence.

“I’m fine.”

“I told you danger would come.” Jasper said.

“There was no danger.” Hailey scowled. “Jacob’s friends are idiots.”

“They are werewolves…nothing about them is idiotic. They have one goal in mind now and that is to get rid of you.”

“You can’t know that, Jasper.”

Hailey stood up quickly and turned to face both of them.

“Look. I’m fine. I’m tired. I’m going to bed.”

Hailey stormed out of the room and headed upstairs. She would take refuge in Alice’s room and make use of her comfy couch. Lying down, she placed her head on one of the soft pillows. They smelled like Alice and that comforted her. Hailey closed her eyes and tried to dream of Jacob but all that came was memories of Sam and his friends. Jasper might be right but that wasn’t going to stop her from seeing Jacob.

~*~

When Hailey woke up the next morning, the house was at peace. There was no sound as she walked down the stairs. It was odd that at least Jasper or Emmett was around. She had decided the night before that she was going back to see Jacob; hopefully with no more altercations with Sam and the others.

It was another beautiful day but cloudy. This didn’t dampen Hailey’s mood though. Being a little bit hungry, she grabbed an apple from the kitchen and went to sit on the porch. The sun was peeking through the clouds, trying to remove the clouds from the sky. Hailey could have easily removed them herself but she left well enough alone.

After a pretty quiet morning, Hailey decided to head to La Push early. Her bike was in the same spot she had left it in last night. She was surprised that Jasper hadn’t tried to hide it from her. Taking this as a good sign, she mounted her bike. She slipped her sunglasses on before putting on her helmet. Starting the engine, Hailey zoomed down the driveway and on her way to La Push. Surely Jacob would be up and around by the time she arrived.

The ride was peaceful. Trees whisked past her in a steady blur. The closer she got to La Push, the stronger the smell of the ocean became. She loved being close to the water. It relaxed her, that and being with Jacob.

Hailey arrived at Jacob’s house around mid-day. She parked her bike an walked up to the door. She knocked hard on the old door. There was no sound from within. This disappointed her but then the door opened to reveal Billy Black, Jacob’s father.

“Hi Billy.” Hailey smiled.

“Hailey, it’s good to see you.”

Hailey looked inside the house but saw no sign of Jacob.

“He’s not here.” Billy answered her sad expression. “I asked him to do a few errands for me.”

“Oh, ok. Well, I’m going to head out to the cliff. Could you tell him that’s where I am, when he gets back?”

“Of course.” Billy smiled. “He shouldn’t be much longer.”

Hailey nodded her head and told Billy goodbye. She walked slowly back to her bike, mounted it and went rolling down the street. They didn’t live far from the cliffs so it only took a few minutes to arrive. Nobody else was around this time of day so she had some time alone.

After dismounting she headed over to the edge of the cliff. Hailey stopped and looked down. Jagged rocks lined the bottom of the cliff. The steady pounding of the waves sent spray of water up the cliff face. Closing her eyes, Hailey soaked in the sounds of the waves and breathed deeply the smells. She was totally at peace.

Hailey then heard sounds from behind her. Hoping it was Jacob, she swung around to face him. To her shock it was none other than Sam Uley with Quil and Paul.

“What are you doing here, half-breed?” Sam snarled. “You aren’t welcome here!”

“You and what army?” Hailey retorted.

“That wasn’t smart of you to say.” Paul said, his eyes narrowing.

“I’m smarter than all three of you combined.” Hailey crossed her arms in defiance.

Growls erupted from all three of the boys. Something was happening and Hailey didn’t expect to see this kind of reaction. Sam, Quil and Paul all turned into wolves, their teeth bared.

Hailey tried retreating behind her but her heel felt the edge of the cliff. She could go no farther. Panic set in as she feared for life. Clouds started to roll in, blocking out the sun. Hailey couldn’t control it, her emotions were causing it.

Sam was the first to take a swipe at Hailey, knocking her to the ground. She hit her head on a sharp rock. The punch took her breath away. Fear engulfed her. By now the sky was completely covered in darkness. Rain started to fall gently on the roof tops surrounding the cliff. It started to tinkle softly but as the rain continued to pour, the sounds became deafening.

Hailey raised her arms to block further attacks but it didn’t prevent them from attacking. She tried to stand and break free from them but they quickly overpowered her. In her mind she could only wonder where Jacob was.

“Please…I have done nothing wrong.” She pleaded to all three of them. But her pleading did nothing but bring the attacks on harder.

They punched and scratched her continually. Blood trickled down her temple where she had hit her head. She could feel consciousness slipping away. Her body felt completely broken.

“Would no one come to my rescue?” Hailey thought.

Surely Alice could see…

~*~

Alice and Jasper were sitting in the living room with the rest of the Cullen’s when the vision came. Alice straightened her back at the sight and everyone turned to face her.

“What do you see?” Jasper asked.

“Hailey…she’s in danger!” Alice paused.

“What else?” Jasper knew that she held back a portion of the vision from them.

Alice turned to face Jasper and looked into his eyes; they were black as coal.

“If nothing is done…she will die.”

“Where?” Emmett asked.

“La Push.”

“We’d better hurry then.”

“Emmett, get your jeep. We’ll need the room if Hailey is indeed hurt.”

Emmett nodded his head and rushed out the door to the garage.

Jasper looked at Carlisle who stood holding Esme’s hand.

“We’ll find her and bring her back home.”

“This isn’t your fault, Jasper.” Carlisle encouraged him.

“I could have stopped her.” Jasper scowled.

“You didn’t know this would happen. Just go find her and bring her back to us.”

Jasper nodded his head, grabbed Alice’s hand and ran out the front door. Emmett was waiting for them, the jeep’s engine rumbling and ready to go.

~*~

Hailey’s breathing was erratic now; she gasped for every small breath. She felt alone…she couldn’t even feel the presence of any of the Cullen’s. Could it be possible that they couldn’t see her…being so far away?

It was then that through the blurriness of her eyes that she saw more shadows. Someone had finally come to her aid or was it the opposite?

“Sam!” Someone growled.

Sam Uley turned around to see Seth Clearwater. He, too, was a member of the pack but a little more sensible in mind. He knew that what Sam had done was wrong.

“Stay out of it, Seth.” Sam warned.

“Or what?”

“Jacob’s going to tear you limb from limb when he gets here.”

A guttural growl made all of them turn around. There Jacob Black stood, in human form. His ember eyes were glowing. The anger that he felt was in control.

“What have you done?!” He calmly asked with sympathy in his voice.

Jacob ran over to Hailey’s side. She was lying on her side, barely breathing. Upon seeing Jacob’s face, she tried to smile but the pain was too great. Hailey tried to speak…to tell Jacob she loved him.

“Don’t talk. I’ll get you to safety.” Jacob hushed her.

Jacob gently picked up Hailey in his arms and headed towards his truck. He would take her to the border of La Push in hopes that at least one of the Cullen’s would be there. He knew they wouldn’t cross the line and break the treaty that was still solidly in place. He placed Hailey in the front seat, trying not to cause her more pain. Quickly he started the truck and pulled out of the parking lot. It would only take a few minutes to get to the border.

As soon as he made it to the border between La Push and Forks, he saw bright headlights. Emmet, Jasper and Alice were standing there, concern and anger on their faces.

Jacob stopped his truck and quickly went to the passenger side and lifted Hailey out. The rain continued to pour but that didn’t matter to him. The only thing he cared about was Hailey. He walked her over to the Cullen’s.

“What happened?” Alice asked Jacob.

“I…don’t know. Hailey came to visit me but I wasn’t home. I can only imagine that Sam Uley smelled her and attacked her.”

“This is your fault.” Jasper hissed.

“I had nothing to do with this!” Jacob insisted.

“Hand her over.” Emmett finally said a steady calm in his voice.

Jacob did as he was told. He handed Hailey gently over to Emmett who in turn walked her over to his jeep. Alice followed to give assistance. Jasper was the last one to leave but before he did, he looked Jacob in the eyes.

“This isn’t over. If she dies, her blood is on your hands. We will take our revenge.”

Jasper then swiftly turned around and ran to the jeep. He got in the passenger seat and Emmett pulled out.

Jacob watched as they pulled away. Fear and sadness enveloped him. He couldn’t imagine how he would feel if Hailey did die. He kept a hope in his heart but it was slowly fading.

Wherever you go, whatever you do I will be right here, waiting for you.

I hear the laughter, I taste the tears but I can't get near you now.

I wonder how we can survive this romance but in the end if I'm with you, I'll take the chance.

~*~

Emmett gently placed Hailey in the back of his jeep. Alice jumped in afterwards and covered Hailey with a thick blanket.

“Hang in there, Hailey. We’ll get you help.” Alice reassured her.

Hailey continued to drift in an out of consciousness. She could barely make out conversations. Hailey closed her eyes to try to block out the pain she was feeling but this would be a mistake. She fell into a deep sleep which no one but herself could wake her from.

They arrived at the Cullen home in less than an hour. When Emmett needed to be somewhere he pushed it there. Carlisle was waiting on the front porch when they arrived. He ran out to the jeep and took a look at Hailey. He frowned upon the sight of her.

“This isn’t good. I’m not going to even risk bringing her inside. We need to get her to the hospital in quick haste.”

He turned back to Alice who stood hovering over Hailey.

“Alice, I need you to call Edward. He’s at the Swan’s. Tell him to tell Bella and Charlie that Hailey was in a motorcycle accident and we are rushing her to the hospital. They can meet us there.”

Alice nodded her head and took out her cell phone.

Carlisle jumped in the back of the jeep and protected Hailey as they made their way to the hospital.

~*~

Edward was sitting in the living room with Bella and Charlie when his cell phone rang. He looked at the caller id and it said it was Alice. He smiled as he flipped it open.

“Hey Alice.”

“Edward. I have some bad news.”

“What?” Edward said, frowning. Excusing himself, he walked into the kitchen for privacy.

“It’s Hailey. She was attacked in La Push.”

Edward growled.

“Jacob?” He automatically assumed.

“No, it was Sam Uley and a few others.”

“That makes it worse.”

“Carlisle is rushing Hailey to the hospital and for you, Bella and Charlie to meet us there.”

“What am I supposed to tell them?” Edward questioned, knowing full well they couldn’t tell Bella and Charlie what really happened.

“Carlisle said to tell them she was in a bad motorcycle accident and is being rushed to the hospital.”

“Alright. We’ll be on our way shortly.” Edward flipped his phone shut and walked back into the living room.

Bella knew something was wrong and looked concerned.

“What’s wrong?” She asked.

“Hailey was in a motorcycle accident. She was rushed to the hospital. According to Carlisle she’s in critical condition.”

Bella looked over at Charlie in shock. She couldn’t believe this was happening.

“You should call Reneé. She’d want to know.” Edward pointed out.

Bella nodded her head while Charlie went into the kitchen to call Reneé. She would be upset about it and would probably fly up as soon as possible.

Edward waited for everyone to prepare before they left for the hospital. The whole situation unnerved him. He felt angry but also saddened that this would happen.

~*~

It didn’t take long for Emmett to make it to the hospital. The second he pulled up to the emergency room entrance, Carlisle jumped out and rushed inside. A few seconds later he came out with a nurse and a stretcher. Alice pulled up behind them a few seconds later. She jumped out of the car and rushed to Hailey’s side.

In a group effort Carlisle, Emmett, Jasper and Alice lifted Hailey up in the blanket that was under her and gently placed her on the stretcher. The nurse then rushed Hailey into the hospital to begin treatment. Carlisle turned to Alice with sympathetic eyes.

“Wait for Edward to arrive with Bella and Charlie and then take them into the waiting room. I will come find you once I know anything.”

Alice nodded and looked over at Jasper and Emmett. Emmett looked like he was ready to kill someone with his looks. Jasper put his arm around Alice’s shoulders and led her to a bench outside the emergency room door. They sat down and waited for Edward to arrive. Emmett followed but kept standing, his arms crossed.

It seemed like a long time before Edward arrived but he finally did. Bella and Charlie rushed out of the car but stopped when they saw Alice waiting for them.

“Any news?” Bella asked.

“No. Not yet. Carlisle just took her in to start treatment. We’re supposed to take you to the waiting room and he’ll find us when he has some news.”

“Alright. Lead the way then.” Bella turned to Charlie and nodded her head towards him. They slowly walked into the emergency room and towards the waiting room. There they waited. Time seemed to go slow for all of them. They were all worried about Hailey and whether she would survive.

~*~

Hours upon hours past before Carlisle showed up. Everyone knew the minute he walked in that he had bad news.

“She’s stable now but still in critical condition.” Carlisle spoke. He held a chart in his hands which everyone assumed was Hailey’s. “She had internal bleeding which we were able to stop but there is much more damage then we first thought. There are many broken bones but our biggest concern is her heart. One of her ribs shattered and a piece of the rib lodged itself in her heart. We weren’t able to get it removed. It would do more damage then good to take it out as to leave it in.”

Everyone looked over at Bella and Charlie with sympathy. They knew what Carlisle was going to say next.

“Unless by some miracle…Hailey will die.”

Tears started to roll down Bella’s cheeks as the reality hit her. She buried her face into Charlie’s chest who just stared at Carlisle.

“Nothing…can be done?” Charlie asked his voice cracking.

“I’m afraid not. The damage is too much to risk trying to remove that bone fragment.”

“Can we see her?” Bella finally asked, lifting her head from Charlie’s chest.

“Yes, of course. Follow me.” Carlisle glanced at the rest of the Cullen family and visually told them to wait.

Charlie and Bella followed Carlisle out of the waiting room and towards the intensive care unit.

As soon as they were out of ear shot, Rosalie spoke up.

“What are we going to do about this?”

“What do you mean, Rose?” Emmett questioned.

“Are we going to let her die or is Carlisle going to be heroic and safe her.” She scowled.

“Rosalie, that was uncalled for.” Esme chided.

“I think you know that Carlisle won’t just let her die but there is the problem of Charlie, Reneé and Bella.” Alice said. “They can’t know the truth.”

A commotion coming from the front desk interrupted Alice’s thoughts.

“You have to let me see her! She’s my niece for goodness sakes!” Someone was yelling at the nurse stationed out front.

Edward, curious as he was, went around the corner to see who it was. To his surprise it was Reneé. She had just arrived and wanted to see Hailey but the nurse wouldn’t let her.

“Excuse me.” He interrupted. “Mrs. Dwyer? I’m Edward Cullen, Bella’s boyfriend.” Edward reached out a hand to Reneé.

Reneé hesitated but shook Edward’s hand.

“I would ask how you know me, but I’m sure Charlie has told you about me.”

“Not a lot. You just look a lot like Bella.” Edward said honestly.

“I see.”

“You’ve come to see Hailey.”

“Yes but they won’t let me see her.”

“It’s alright. I will find my father for you. Meanwhile you can wait with the rest of us.”

“Thank you.” Reneé smiled as she followed Edward back into the waiting room.

Edward came back a few minutes later with Carlisle in tow. He looked genuinely happy to see that Reneé had arrived. He walked right over to where she stood and shook her hand.

“It is so nice to finally meet you Mrs. Dwyer. Bella has told us a lot about you and Phil.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you too Dr. Cullen. Thank you for being here for us.”

“It’s an honor.”

Reneé placed a gently hand on Carlisle’s arm as she looked up into his eyes.

“I want to see Hailey but before I do there is something I need to discuss with you. Is there somewhere we can talk privately?”

“Of course. My office.” Carlisle motioned for Reneé to follow him. They left the rest of the Cullen family in the waiting room, yet again, curious for what was going on.

~*~

“Please, have a seat.” Carlisle motioned towards a leather chair in front of a massive oak desk. It was identical to the one he had in his home, but you wouldn’t have realized that unless you had been in the Cullen home.

“Thank you.” Reneé said while sitting down.

“What is on your mind?” Carlisle said to the point.

“I will be to the point Dr. Cullen…”

“Please, call my Carlisle.”

“I will be to the point…Carlisle…I have known all along what Hailey was.”

Carlisle’s eyes narrowed at the mention of Hailey.

“We’ve known since she was adopted into our family. At first I didn’t know what to make of it but after some research I did on my own I realized it was the truth. How else did we explain the abilities she has. I also assumed that her brother was either in the same situation or a complete vampire.”

“How does this make you feel?” Carlisle asked honestly.

“The only thing that matters to me, Carlisle, is her life. She doesn’t need to die. I know what can be done. You know what needs to be done.”

“You know about us, then.”

“Yes, but do not assume that Bella or Hailey told us. We figured it out on our own but you know we won’t tell anyone. Who would believe us?”

Carlisle smiled.

“I wouldn’t have expected anything less from Bella’s mother.”

Carlisle stood and walked around to where Reneé sat, placing a hand on her shoulder.

“Trust me. I have everything already planned out. Hailey will die but will have a new birth.”

Reneé smiled and nodded her head.

“Now, I expect you wish to see Hailey now.”

“Yes, thank you.”

Carlisle led Reneé back out of his office, feeling a little more at ease at what needed to be done. Knowing that Reneé and Charlie knew about Hailey would help the situation along. The only other problem would be reassuring the rest of the Cullen’s, Nicholas and Jacob Black.

~*~

Jacob Black was working out in his garage when Billy yelled to him to come into the house. Jacob dropped what he was doing and walked in the back door. Billy was sitting at the kitchen table reading the morning newspaper.

Jacob washed his hands in the sink and methodically wiped them dry on a hand towel that lay on the counter. He sat down across from Billy but didn’t say anything. Billy knew he was hurting but he also knew that Jacob couldn’t keep it inside forever.

“Are you going to the hospital today?” Billy asked, not looking up from the paper.

“I haven’t decided.” Jacob snapped.

Billy looked over at Jacob with a raised eyebrow. Slowly he folded the newspaper and laid it on the table. Just the way Jacob responded gave Billy affirmation that he cared about Hailey.

“Jacob, you can’t stay away forever. She’d want you to visit.”

“I wouldn’t be welcome. They hate me.”

“This wasn’t your doing. They know that.”

“I’ll never forgive Sam for this!” Jacob yelled, pounding his fist into the table. It shook under the force of the blow.

“It is unforgivable what he and his friends did but he did it under emotions. Sam knew what she was and was protecting the treaty.”

“I don’t care about the stupid treaty. I care about Hailey. She was innocent in all of this.”

“I know, son. I know.”

Silence enveloped the house once more.

“Go to her.” Billy finally said, placing a hand on Jacobs arm.

Jacob nodded his head and walked out of the house. He would go to the hospital and he didn’t care what the Cullen’s thought of him.

The hospital was in Fork’s which meant a long trip but Jacob didn’t care. He went over to where his truck was parked. The skies had clouded up since he went into the house and a steady rain had started to fall. This didn’t bother Jacob at all but just increased his agitated mood.

By the time he arrived at the hospital it was mid-day. Jacob parked his truck in the visitor parking lot and walked the long way around to the front entrance. The minute he walked through the door the sickly sweet smell of vampires enveloped him. He scrunched up his nose in distaste. Jasper Hale was leaning against the far wall, staring at him.

“What are you doing here, dog?” Jasper said sarcastically.

Jacob ignored him and walked up to the nurse at the receptionist desk.

“May I help you?” She asked sweetly.

Jacob smiled.

“Yes. Is it possible to speak with Dr. Cullen?”

“Sure.” The nurse said. “Hold on one minute.”

A voice went over the intercom requesting that Dr. Cullen come to the front desk.

Jacob thanked the nurse and patiently waited. He turned around to where Jasper was standing and saw that Edward and Emmett had joined him. Emmett scowled at Jacob but didn’t move. Jasper still leaned against the wall, his arms crossed. Edward started to walk over to Jacob but stopped when Carlisle came around the corner.

“Jacob?!” Carlisle acted surprised to see him.

“Dr. Cullen.”

Jacob glared at Edward who remained where he had stopped. He turned to face Carlisle with a frown.

“How is Hailey?”

“Not well.” Carlisle said solemnly. “She’s stable but in critical condition. She’s dying, Jacob. Her injuries are too severe.”

Jacob looked away as tears started to roll down his face.

Carlisle looked over at Edward, Emmett and Jasper and motioned for them to go back into the waiting room. They hesitated but eventually did as Carlisle wanted.

“May I see her?” Jacob asked as his voice cracked.

“Yes. The Swans are in there now. Be prepared for the worse.”

Jacob nodded his head but didn’t say a word.

He followed Carlisle into the I.C.U. The sounds of machines echoed throughout the halls. The whole department went around in one big circle. In the center was a big circular nurses station so each nurse had a good view of each of the patients rooms.

Carlisle continued to lead Jacob through the many crowds of visitors, nurses and doctors until he entered into one of the rooms. Bella was the first to see Jacob and ran up to him.

“You came!” She cried as she put her arms around his broad shoulders.

Jacob didn’t say a word; his eyes were transfixed to who lay in the bed.

Hailey lay motionless on the bed; tubes and wires ran in and out of her body. Huge computer screens hung above her head showing her vitals. Her normal pale skin was as white as the sheets that covered her frail body. Different types of medicine, fluids and oxygen were hung on stands that connected the tubing.

Bella finally let Jacob go and smiled up at him. Tears glistened the corners of his eyes as he tried to smile. It was all too painful for him to even think happy thoughts.

Jacob looked over at Charlie and Reneé, who sat next to each other. They held each other close, knowing that Hailey was going to die but not knowing how soon.

He walked closer to Hailey. Jacob could clearly see the damage to her body on the outside. There were many scratches on her face and arms; most were bandaged but many were not. Her left arm was in a cast, which lay gently on her stomach.

Jacob gently touched her auburn hair with his fingertips. The normal smooth tresses were now rough to the touch.

The tears were flowing at a steady pace now. He could not look upon her angelic features and not feel sorrow…not feel pain…not feel anger.

He reached down and picked up Hailey’s right hand in his. He squeezed gently and then slowly brought her hand to his lips. Jacob kissed her hand; wetting it not only by the kiss but by the tears that soaked his face.

The strength in Jacob’s body left him and he collapsed to his knees; sobbing uncontrollably.

Bella went to rush to his side but Carlisle stopped her. Bella took the hint and left Jacob alone. She understood.

Jacob held on tightly to Hailey’s hand as he cried. He stayed there for hours, not wanting to let Hailey go.

A change in beeping coming from Hailey’s vitals brought Jacob’s attention back. Charlie, Renee and Bella had gone to get something to eat so Jacob was alone with Hailey. He looked up at the computer screen and saw a spike in blood pressure. The rhythm of her heartbeat increased and then went erratic. Jacob snapped his head around to look for Carlisle but he was nowhere to be seen.

Jacob panicked but then felt a little bit of relief when Carlisle walked into the room.

Carlisle noticed the fear in Jacob’s eyes and went over to Hailey. He had a small wooden box in his hands. Carlisle put the box on the edge of the bed. He then checked her pulse and listened to her heart. After a few long seconds, he shook his head in despair.

“Her heart is failing. There isn’t much time now.”

Jacob was now standing; he still had Hailey’s hand in his. He leaned over and kissed Hailey on her forehead.

“I love you, Hailey.” Jacob whispered.

Carlisle had opened the box that he had placed on the bed. Inside was a large hypodermic needle and vile of red liquid.

“What is that?” Jacob inquired; his eyes wide with fear.

“Jacob…there is something you need to understand. Hailey is a half vampire but also human. It is the human part of her that is damaged. If there is a hope that she is to survive then there is only one thing that can be done.”

Jacob stood still, trying to comprehend what Carlisle was getting across. Then it finally hit him.

“You are going to turn her into a full vampire?!”

“Yes, Jacob. It is the only way…unless you would rather her to just…die.”

“No…if I had a choice I would rather her live.”

“Good. Now…there is one thing I need you to do. The process will be painful for her. You need to be here for her as a support but realize that as soon as she awakens her first desire will be for blood.”

“Understood.”

Carlisle focused on what he was doing. He removed the needle out of the case and injected it into the vial of liquid. He filled the needle completely up with fluid, tapping the sides of the needle to remove any trapped air in the tube.

Jacob was curious.

“What is that red liquid?”

“It’s pure vampire venom.”

Carlisle watched Hailey’s vitals and waited for the right moment to inject the venom in her body.

Time stood still as they waited.

Hailey’s heartbeat suddenly slowed and then flat lined. Carlisle swiftly stuck the needle into Hailey’s heart and injected the venom into her body.

Jacob watched closely at Hailey while this was all going on. He didn’t know what to make of it. He hoped that this was going to work like Carlisle had planned. That she would live.

Carlisle started to remove all the tubes that connected her to the machines. She wouldn’t need them anymore.

The next few days would be a painful experience for Hailey but Carlisle was sure that she would make it through it. They all watched in anticipation.

It started out as a feeling; which then grew into a hope; which then turned into a quiet thought; which then turned into a quiet word. I'll come back when you call me. No need to say goodbye. Pick a star on the dark horizon and follow the light.

Hailey’s blood boiled. She felt like her body was coming apart. Jacob was there; his smell was familiar to her but she couldn’t reach him. Someone had injected something into her heart. The feeling started out as warmth but suddenly felt hot…almost boiling. It burned. Her whole body burned like it was on fire. She wanted to scream out but she couldn’t.

Hailey heard voices around her but they sounded muddled.

Her senses started to go wild. She could feel intense cold and intense heat. Smells were robust around her. She could smell Alice’s perfume…Emmett’s cologne…Jacob’s musk…Esme’s sweetness. There was another smell she couldn’t make out…it was sweet…intoxicating…it gave her desire. It was blood. Human blood and it wasn’t hers. She needed it like plants needed water to survive. She never felt like that before about blood.

“What is going on?” She thought.

Hailey forced her eyes open but they wouldn’t focus. Everything around her was a blur. She blinked many times and finally was able to see shapes. People were hovering over her. The voices started to get clearer.

“She’s awake.” One voice said. It sounded like Jacob but she couldn’t be sure.

“Get Bella out of here!” Carlisle clearly said.

“What is going on?” Hailey tried to say but her voice cracked.

Finally her vision and hearing cleared completely. She saw Jacob and Carlisle leaning over her. The smell of blood was stronger now and she finally understood why. Bella was standing over in the corner of the room, shielded by Emmett and Jasper.

“Carlisle?”

“Welcome back, Hailey.” He smiled.

“Jacob?”

Jacob smiled at Hailey but didn’t say a word.

“Will someone please explain?”

“In time, Hailey. In time.” Carlisle assured her. “There is a much greater need right now. I want you to drink this.”

Carlisle handed her a cup with a straw sticking out of it. It smelled like a bouquet of fresh flowers. It was what she wanted…what she desired. It was blood. She drank down the whole cup and it quenched her desire if only a little bit of it.

“Umm…you did it, didn’t you?” Hailey asked Carlisle.

“We had to, Hailey.”

“Was I dead?”

“Pretty much.” Jacob piped up. “I wouldn’t stand for you to be dead though I would have gladly gotten revenge for you.”

Jacob grinned ear to ear. He seemed proud of himself.

Hailey smacked him playfully. She hadn’t felt happier to be alive but she was sure there was more to it than they were telling her.

~*~

By the afternoon Hailey was feeling tired. The whole ordeal had drained her energy. Jacob had stayed by her side all day even though she told him to take a break.

“Aren’t you hungry?” Hailey asked him.

“No. I’m fine.”

Jacob was sitting in a chair by the bed, never taking an eye off her.

Carlisle had placed Hailey in a different room since she was doing much better. It was located on the lower floor in the East Wing of the hospital. It was one of the few rooms that had a door leading outside into a beautiful garden.

“Don’t you want to go spend time with your friends?”

“No. They aren’t my friends.”

Jacob scowled. It angered him still that Sam Uley would even consider hurting Hailey.

“You should go talk to them.”

“Why?”

“You can’t hold hatred against them forever. They are your kin.”

Jacob kept silent.

“For me?”

“Hailey, I love you. I want you to be mine…forever.” Jacob changed the subject. He grabbed Hailey’s hand and kissed it gently.

“You have me, Jacob. Forever…this is more of a reason to make up with them.”

“I can’t forgive them.”

“At least talk to them. Do it for me…for Embry…for Seth.”

“What do Embry and Seth have to do with this?”

Hailey laughed.

“First off because you told me they saved my life and secondly they are standing right outside the door.”

Jacob turned around to see Embry and Seth standing at the door. They smiled and waved at Jacob. Hailey motioned for them to come in. Embry grinned and opened the door. They both piled in and closed the door behind them.

“She lives!” Embry said jovially. Seth smacked him in the back of his head.

“Ow! What did you do that for?”

“That was mean to say.” Seth scolded.

“I was joking. Geez.”

“Boys...” Jacob warned.

“Sorry, Hailey.” They both apologized.

“It’s alright.” Hailey smiled. She enjoyed the camaraderie between Jacob, Embry and Seth. They truly acted like brothers.

“So, how are you feeling?” Seth asked as he sat softly on the edge of the bed.

“A little tired but alright.”

“We’re sorry this happened.” Embry frowned.

“It’s not your fault. You couldn’t have known what Sam was planning.”

At the mention of Sam’s name all three of them scowled.

“It he wasn’t Alpha, we’d kill him.” Embry snapped.

“You should be Alpha, Jacob.” Seth commented.

“Yea, you should start your own pack.” Embry agreed. “We’d join you in a heartbeat.”

“I don’t know.”

Jacob was undecided. He had always thought of the idea but never pursued it.

“I think you should do what you think is right, Jacob.” Hailey smiled up at him. “I’ll follow you whatever you do.”

Jacob smiled back at her. He leaned down and kissed Hailey on the lips. She smelled like a bouquet of wild flowers to him. He drank in her smell until he released her.

“Thank you.”

“I think it is time for you to go home.” Hailey said plainly.

“Will you be alright by yourself?”

“I’ll be fine. Go.”

“Alright. I’ll call you later on.”

Hailey nodded her head and shooed them out the door.

~*~

“Need a ride?” Jacob asked Embry and Seth as they walked out.

“Sure. If you want the company.” Embry said.

“I don’t care.” Jacob laughed.

“What are you going to do?” Seth asked.

“I’m going to go home first. Then I’m going to go talk to Sam.”

“Just talk?”

“Just talk and both of you are going with me.” Jacob said defiantly.

Embry and Seth grinned widely at Jacob.

They continued in silence…walking to the parking lot where Jacob had parked his truck.

The trip back to La Push was a long one. Jacob didn’t want to leave Hailey but he was convinced this was the right thing to do. He still hadn’t decided what he was going to tell Sam but he knew that something had to be said. He stepped out of his boundaries when he attacked Hailey and now that Hailey was a full vampire it made Jacob have a deeper urgency to talk with him.

The sun was just setting when Jacob pulled into his own driveway. The lights were on in the house so he knew Billy was home. He jumped out of the truck and walked up to the front door. He opened the door and swung it open. Billy was sitting at the kitchen table drinking a cup of coffee. Embry and Seth followed Jacob into the kitchen and sat down across from Billy. Jacob smiled at Billy as he normally did.

“How is she?” Billy asked.

“She’s on the mend. Thankfully Carlisle was there to save her. She almost died.”

“I heard. Charlie called me this afternoon. Are you alright with the situation?”

“I haven’t felt more at ease with the situation.” Jacob was honest with his father. He knew that whatever he had decided that Billy would accept it as well.

“What are you going to do about Sam and his friends?” Billy said bluntly.

“I’m going to go talk to Sam. That’s why I came home. Hailey convinced me that I needed to at least talk to him.”

“Just know that he won’t be happy. Try to control yourself while around him. I know you are angry but be happy that Hailey is alive.”

“I know. That’s why I am taking Embry and Seth with me.”

“Alright. Then I would get going. It’s almost dark.”

Jacob nodded and motioned for Embry and Seth to leave through the back door. They would go the back way to Sam’s house. Hopefully he would be home and would be reasonable about it.

All you can do is try to know who your friends are as you head off to the war. Now we're back to the beginning. It's just a feeling and no one knows yet but just because they can't feel it too doesn't mean that you have to forget. Let your memories grow stronger and stronger until they're before your eyes.

They emerged out of the forest in front of Sam Uley’s house in no time at all. They had transformed when they had entered the woods so they would make good time. There was no telling how long Sam would stay indoors in a night like this. Jacob was the first one to reach the front door. He transformed back into his human form as to not appear aggressive. Embry and Seth were close behind him. He knocked roughly on the door and waited. The door opened not seconds later to show Emily Young, Sam’s girlfriend. She smiled sweetly when she recognized Jacob.

“What a nice surprise, Jacob.”

“Is Sam home, Emily?” He asked her.

“Yes, he is. He’s in the living room.”

“Can you ask him to come outside? We need to talk.”

Emily nodded her head. She went back into the house. Jacob stepped off the top step and went to wait in the yard. He looked up at the sky. It was a clear night. There were no clouds visible but a full moon lit up the night sky. His attention came back to the house when he saw Sam Uley step out into the yard. He had his hands in his pockets. He scowled upon seeing Jacob with Embry and Seth.

Jacob kept a level head and walked over to Sam.

“What do you want, Jacob.”

“I’ve come to talk….about Hailey.”

“There is nothing to say about her. She’s not one of us, Jacob.”

“I don’t care. She’s my girl now.”

“Do you really think I care? She’s still one of them and she’s still my enemy!”

Jacob’s temper was starting to rise inside of him.

“You almost killed her!”

“Almost? That’s a shame. I thought I had done her in.”

“You bastard!” Jacob growled.

“Are you going to fight me, Jacob?” Sam countered.

“You aren’t worth the time and effort to fight. You can go to hell!”

“You first, Jacob because that is where you are going with the girl attached to you.”

“Leave Hailey out of this, Sam.” Embry boldly said. “You’ve caused enough damage.”

“We are leaving the pack, Sam.” Seth said. “Jacob is going to start his own pack and he’ll be the Alpha. You won’t be in our way anymore.”

“Oh is that so? You will never get rid of me.” Sam turned and stomped off back into the house, leaving Jacob in his anger.

~*~

Since being turned into a full vampire, Hailey had no desire to sleep though she still felt very tired from the whole ordeal. She hoped that she would be able to go back to the Cullen’s house soon. Waiting around in a hospital wasn’t her cup of tea.

It was early morning and the sun was just rising above the trees. Hailey was looking out in the garden through the door. She wished that she could venture out but it still scared her to be alone especially in a place unknown to her.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?”

Hailey swung around to see Carlisle standing behind her. He was smiling at her like he normally did.

“Yes, it is.” Hailey agreed.

“I have some good news for you. You are being released today though I want you to take care of that arm.”

Hailey looked down at the cast that was still on her left arm. She had gotten used to it being there but one thing is for sure she would be glad when it would come off.

“How much longer do I have to keep it?”

“Probably just a week or so to make sure the bone is fully set.”

Hailey sighed.

“Alright.”

“I asked Alice and Jasper to come pick you up in an hour.”

“Alright. Thank you.”

Carlisle laid a hand on her shoulder.

“Hailey, are you alright? You seem distracted.”

“I am distracted.” Hailey sighed again. “Jacob went to see Sam Uley last night and I haven’t heard from him. I’m worried.”

“Does he have a cell phone? Maybe you could call him or at least the house.”

“Carlisle…” Hailey chuckled. “I don’t even have a cell phone of my own.”

“You don’t? I wish I would have known that. “

“It’s alright. I just never could afford one.”

“Well, I’ll leave you alone for now. Expect Alice and Jasper soon.”

“I will. I’ll see you later on I guess.”

Carlisle nodded his head and departed the room.

Hailey went in search of a change of clothes to put on in place of the hospital gown. Thankfully someone had put it in the dresser that was in the room.

“Probably Alice.” Hailey thought as she changed into her old pair of jeans and t-shirt. It was harder then she thought to put the clothes on with a cast on her arm but she managed to finish right before Alice and Jasper walked in.

Hailey smiled as Alice walked in the room. Jasper was two steps behind her.

“You’re free today.” Alice said while smiling.

“That’s what Carlisle said at least.”

Hailey stood up from where she was sitting on the bed. She grabbed her jacket and walked over to Alice, giving her a hug with her one free arm.

“I’m just glad to be living. Dying isn’t very pleasant.”

“Some might say that becoming a vampire is like dying.”

“In a good way. Though I was partially there anyway.” Hailey chuckled.

“How are you feeling?” Jasper interrupted.

“Fine. I’m not hungry if that is what you mean.”

“Are you sure?”

“I’m positive, Jasper. I have no desire to eat.”

Jasper looked at Hailey with curious expression.

“Are we going to go or just stand around at the hospital all day?” Hailey asked. The tone in her voice hinted at sarcasm. She had no desire to stay at the hospital any longer then she had to.

“I see your attitude hasn’t changed much.” Jasper quipped.

Hailey glared at Jasper. She didn’t know why he was acting that way but she probably could guess. Nobody was happy that she was hanging around Jacob Black but she didn’t rightly care. She loved Jacob and nobody could tell her otherwise.

“Come on. Let’s go.” Alice said, putting her arm around Hailey and started walking towards the door.

They walked in silence out to the parking lot. Jasper had driven his own car to pick up Hailey. Hailey climbed in the back while Alice sat up front with Jasper.

“Alice, may I borrow your cell phone for a minute?” Hailey asked once they were both in their seats.

“Sure.”

Alice handed Hailey her cell phone. There was only one thing on her mind and that was Jacob. She was going to call the house to see if he was home or at least talk to Billy. She dialed the Black’s home phone number and it started to ring. After 3 rings someone picked up.

“Hello?”

It was Billy who answered.

“Billy? It’s Hailey.”

“It’s so nice to hear your voice, Hailey.”

Hailey smiled.

“Is Jacob home?”

“Yes, he is, actually. Do you want to talk to him?”

“Yes, please. If he isn’t busy.”

“Nah. He’s just eating breakfast.”

Hailey heard him yell at Jacob to come to the phone. She waited patiently.

“Hello?” Jacob said calmly.

“Why didn’t you call me?”

“Hailey?”

“Yes, it’s me. Answer my question.” Hailey said sternly.

“I…I…forgot?”

“You promised.”

“I’m sorry Hails. After what happened last night I completely forgot.”

“Did it go badly?”

“Basically Sam doesn’t care about you or how I feel about you. He wasn’t too happy either that I decided to start my own pack.”

“Don’t let him bother you, Jake. You made the decision and he can’t stop you.”

“I’m more worried about your safety.”

“You aren’t the only one who’s concerned with my safety.”

“I know but you are my life now and I will protect you even if I die doing it.”

“Don’t talk like that.”

“It’s the truth, Hails. I love you.”

“I love you too.”

“What are you up to anyway?”

“The Cullen’s picked me up from the hospital and now I’m on the way home. Actually just arrived so I have to go.”

“Alright. I’ll come to see you tomorrow.”

“Sounds good.”

“Bye Hails.”

“Bye Jake.”

Hailey closed the phone and handed it back to Alice. She looked at Hailey with a weird expression. Hailey just shook her head in dismay. They wouldn’t understand but she at least hoped Alice would. She’d just have to give them time.

The minute Hailey walked into the house she was hit with an assault of anger by Jasper. She knew he wasn’t happy that she was hanging around Jacob but calling him on Alice’s phone pushed him over the edge.

“What do you think you are doing!?”

“Getting on with my life?”

“Are you really ready to risk you life again?”

“Do you know how ridiculous you sound?” Hailey snapped. “You won’t even give Jacob a chance.”

“He doesn’t deserve a chance. He’s a werewolf and you are a vampire. It won’t work and you know it.”

“You’re wrong. We love each other.”

Jasper growled and stomped out of the house; slamming the door behind him. The whole house shook at the force of the slam.

Hailey was angry but also sad that Jasper would act that way. She solemnly walked into the living room and sat down on the cough with a sigh. Alice followed Hailey into the living room and sat down next to her.

“Hailey…it’s not that we won’t give Jacob a chance…it’s because of the treaty that we don’t normally trust werewolves.”

“I understand but I’m just asking to give Jacob a chance to prove himself.”

“I will, for your sake, but don’t expect Jasper, Emmett or Edward to feel the same.”

“Thank you Alice.”

Hailey leaned over and gave Alice a hug.

“We love you, Hailey and just want you to be safe.”

“I know.” Hailey smiled.

~*~

The next day Jasper was in a better mood. It seemed like all that happened the day before had blown over.

Hailey was sitting on the front porch, alone, watching the sun start its early rise into the sky. It was brisk for the April morning but Hailey enjoyed the weather. Besides, Jacob had promised to come see her today, so it couldn’t be better.

She heard the front door open and then shut. Hailey turned to see who it was. It was Nicholas. She hadn’t seen him in a few days so it was a nice surprise.

“Hey.”

“Hey Hailey. I’ve missed seeing you.” Nicholas said.

“I know. I feel bad about that.”

“It’s alright. You’ve been through a lot lately.”

Hailey nodded her head.

“What’s been going on?”

“I’ve been trying to get some more information on Marcus. You haven’t heard from him since the accident?”

“No. Though I suspect I will hear from him soon.”

“Just be careful. I don’t think he’s forgotten about you.”

“I will.”

“I will be going down to Texas to follow up on some leads so if you don’t see me the next couple of days, that is why.”

“Oh. Ok. Well be careful, alright?”

“Don’t worry about me. I can hold my own.” Nicholas smiled.

A rumbling noise was coming up the drive at that moment. Hailey brought her attention to the driveway, waiting to see who it was. The front door opened and closed again. This time Jasper, Alice and Emmett came out. Jasper and Emmett both had a scowl on their face.

“Uh oh.” Hailey thought. “It must be Jacob.”

Sure enough; Jacob’s truck came up the driveway and parked right in front of the house.

Hailey jumped up from where she was sitting and went to run to his truck but Emmett got to her before that happened. He grabbed her arm and stood in front of her, blocking any attempt to get past him.

“Let me go, Emmett.” She pleaded.

Jacob hopped out of his truck and walked over to the porch. He stopped at the bottom of the stairs and crossed his arms.

“Let her go, Cullen.” He scowled.

“I would advise you to stay out of our business.” Emmett warned..

“YOUR business? I think Hailey is MY business.”

Hailey looked at Alice with pleading eyes.

“Emmett…” Alice touched his arm with her fingers. “Let her go.”

“No, Alice.”

“You can’t control her. She’ll do it whether she gets your consent or not.”

Nothing was said for the longest minute until Emmett finally gave in and released Hailey.

“Fine.” Emmett said and gruffly walked away.

Hailey rushed over to where Jacob stood. She looked back to the porch and saw Alice and Jasper still there. Jasper narrowed his eyes but finally nodded his head in acceptance. Alice smiled and hooked her arm around Jasper’s.

Hailey smiled. She thought that perhaps Jasper had finally accepted the situation. She watched as Jasper and Alice walked back into the house. Nicholas was the only one who was still standing on the porch. He smiled at her and then walked back into the house.

She turned to face Jacob and smiled. He wrapped his strong arms around her, bringing her close to his chest. His body radiated warmth. The chill that she had felt was now dissipating.

Jacob softly kissed her forehead as Hailey laid her head on his chest. She listened to the gentle beating of his heart.

“I don’t like him.” Jacob finally said.

“Emmett? He’s harmless. He’s just very protective of his family.”

“I suppose you are included in the family.”

“Of course. Nicholas and I we asked to join the Cullen family no to long ago. It was for protection only.”

“Hailey…I want you a part of my own family.”

Hailey looked up into Jacob’s eyes; they stared right back.

“Is that a proposal, Jacob Black?”

Jacob’s cheeks started to turn a bright red.

“I…I…don’t know. Perhaps.” He grinned.

Hailey laughed at his embarrassment.

“How can you not know?”

“I love you too much to be departed. I want you to be mine forever.”

“I will be yours forever.”

Jacob leaned down and joined his lips to hers. Her emotions took control of her own will. She locked her lips with Jacob’s and passionately kissed him. The world seemed to disappear. There was nothing except for her and Jacob. Hailey didn’t want the moment to stop. She couldn’t stop. She desired him and he desired her. The moment seemed to last forever until Jacob gasped for a breath. Hailey released Jacob. She continued to stare into his eyes. She knew he was for her and she would never forget it.

When you love someone you'll do anything. You'll do all the crazy things that you can't explain. You'll shoot the moon put out the sun. When you love someone you'll deny the truth believe a lie. There'll be times that you'll believe you can really fly. I wonder how we can survive, this romance but in the end if I'm with you, I'll take the chance.

~*~

The next few days flew by for Hailey. She spent as much time with Jacob as she could. He was going to take her out on a date on Saturday but when she woke up on Friday morning everything changed.

Hailey was just getting up when it occurred to her that she hadn’t heard from Nicholas. She didn’t know whether to call him or not. She walked downstairs to find everyone congregating at the dining room table. She walked into the room and everyone looked at her.

“What’s going on?” She asked.

“We were discussing your situation.” Carlisle said.

“My situation? Which one? I have many.”

Hailey crossed her arms; not liking where this was going.

“Marcus Delacroix. He’s still out there and your life is still in danger.”

“Nicholas went to Texas to try to find some more information.”

“We know but your safety is still important.”

“Do you really think he would try anything again?”

“To be honest – yes. It wouldn’t surprise me if he did.”

“What’s the plan…”

Hailey’s question was interrupted by a voice. This voice was familiar and was the person they were talking about. It was Marcus.

“Hailey…Hailey…Hailey. What have they done to you?”

“What a shame that you aren’t human anymore. I had so much fun getting to you.”

“You’re brother made a big mistake trying to find information about me. It pleased me so much to torture him. He’s waiting for you but I don’t believe he will say much.”

“Have fun trying to find him. Anticipate my return soon.”

“You will still die by my hands. I don’t care if you are a full vampire now.”

The connection to Marcus broke. Hailey placed an unsteady hand on the frame of the doorway. Emmett rushed over to her and put a strong arm around her waist.

“It was him, wasn’t it?” Emmett asked.

Hailey nodded her head, too shocked to speak.

“What did he say?” Jasper asked with concern.

“He…he implied that he harmed Nicholas and that he is still coming to kill me.”

Jasper turned to Alice, in hopes that she saw something. Alice closed her eyes, focusing on Nicholas but she saw nothing.

Hailey sighed.

“Would Marcus kill Nicholas because of me?” She asked.

“I don’t know, Hailey. But we’ll figure this out.” Carlisle reassured her.

“Alright.”

“For now I want you to stay indoors or if you go out then to be accompanied by one of us.”

“I understand.” Hailey agreed with everything that was decided. Her only concern was for Nicholas.

“I’ll go to Texas and see if I can find out anything.” Jasper volunteered.

“Be careful, Jasper. This Marcus fellow isn’t one to be toyed with.”

“Don’t worry about me. If I find out anything, I will call.”

Hailey’s eyes started to tear up.

“That’s what Nicholas told me.” She thought.

Caught up in a fit of uncontrolled emotions, Hailey rushed out of the room and out the front door.

Carlisle looked over at Alice with concern.

“Alice, would you mind?”

Alice nodded her head and followed Hailey. She found her sitting on the front steps. Her head was buried in her arms. Alice could hear her sobbing. Slowly she walked over to Hailey and sat down next to her.

Hailey lifted her head and stared straight ahead.

“Alice…I can sense something is wrong. The connection I have with Nicholas feels severed. I fear the worse.”

“I wish I could see something for your sake.” Alice said sorrowfully.

~*~

Jasper left that night for Texas. He wasn’t sure where to start but hopefully Nicholas had left clues to his whereabouts. He drove which meant it would take, at least, 2 days to arrive in the general area in Texas. He would start where Hailey grew up, that would be the best choice. Marcus Delacroix had been in love with Hailey’s mother before she married Titus. Jasper guessed that’s where Nicholas was searching. There had to be some information on Marcus somewhere in that general area.

According to the information they had found out about Hailey’s past, she had grown up in Houston. It was a big city but he could narrow it down to where the Mortenson’s lived. When he had come here to do his initial research he found out where the Mortenson’s had lived. Titus Mortenson still lived there so Jasper would have to be careful. But maybe Nicholas had left some leads with Titus. He would have to risk it.

He pulled up to the Mortenson’s home. The house was built in a modern style. It had windows all around the front of the house. Jasper could clearly see inside. There were lights on so hopefully Titus was home. He pulled on his jacket and walked up to the door. Jasper gently knocked on the doors and waited. The door cracked open to reveal a distinguished man – looking to be in his early 30s. He looked at Jasper with a weary look, not knowing who Jasper was or what he wanted.

“I’m sorry to bother you. My name is Jasper Hale. Mr. Mortenson, I presume?”

Jasper was polite in his introduction, not wanting to be on bad terms with Titus. From what Nicholas had told him, Titus wasn’t one to mess with.

“Yes. I am Titus Mortenson. What can I do for you, Mr. Hale?”

Titus seemed to be open for conversation and motioned for Jasper to come in the house. Titus led him into, what Jasper assumed the living room. Titus sat in an armchair while Jasper sat across from him on the loveseat.

I’ve come from the Olympic Coven in Forks, Washington. It has come to our attention that your son, Nicholas Roth has gone missing.”

Titus narrowed his eyes at the mention of Nicholas.

“Nicholas and Hailey, your daughter, are members of our Coven. We were wondering if you have had any contact with Nicholas.”

“No, unfortunately. We haven’t spoken in quite some time. Can you give more details about what is going on?”

“Of course.” Jasper nodded his head.

“Hailey Swan is your daughter. When she came to us we found out that she was part human and part vampire.”

“That is correct. She was like my…my wife.”

“That’s how we understood it to be. She was adopted into the Swan family and recently found her relatives in Fork’s. That is how we came to know her.”

“Does she know about me?”

“Yes, but only of you. Nicholas told her. She has had a very rough time while living with us. She was attacked by some werewolves and almost died. My father saved her by turning her into a full vampire.”

“Was she alright with that?”

“She had no choice but she is ok with it now. The biggest problem is with a vampire named Marcus Delacroix.”

Jasper paused, letting the mention of Marcus sink in.

“Marcus?!” Titus growled. “What does HE have to do with this?”

“He has threatened Hailey’s life and possibly killed Nicholas. That is why I am here – to find Nicholas and information on Marcus.”

“He’s threatened Hailey? And killed Nicholas??”

“We don’t know if Nicholas is dead but yes, he had threatened to kill Hailey because of your wife.”

Titus cupped his hands over his face. He was definitely feeling sorrow over the mention of his wife.

“Marcus loved Angeline before she chose me. He never forgave me for that. When Angeline died during childbirth, Marcus blamed Hailey and Nicholas for her death. I didn’t think he would go so far as to harm them.”

“Marcus has been tracking Hailey since the day she arrived in Fork’s. He showed himself once, attacking her but thankfully we were there to protect her.”

“I’m so thankful for that. Give my regards to your family.”

“I shall. You haven’t seen or heard from Nicholas then?”

“No, but there is a place he might have gone. Marcus usually hung out at an old warehouse downtown. Nicholas could have gone there.”

“Alright. That’s a start at least.” Jasper got up and turned to leave.

“May I ask a favor before you go?”

“Of course.”

“Can you please let me know if you find Nicholas? I will give you my phone number.”

“I can do that.”

“I appreciate it.”

Titus offered a hand to Jasper, who shook it.

“It was a pleasure to meet you Mr. Mortenson. Trust us, we will find Marcus before he does any more harm.”

“I trust you, Jasper.” Titus smiled as Jasper left the house.

There was much to be done.

Jasper headed downtown in search of Nicholas but also in search of Marcus and more information.

The warehouse was located in the industrial part of Houston. Most of the warehouses were run down. The warehouse that Titus told Jasper to go to definitely showed its wear. Mostly all of the windows were broken. The main entrance to the warehouse was a double sided door. One of the doors stood wide open. It looked like someone had pried it open. Jasper listened to his surrounding, trying to hear any sounds. He didn’t hear anything which put him a little on nerve.

Jasper looked into the warehouse through the open door. It was pitch black but he could focus enough to see the general area of the building. The sun was shining through one of the broken windows in the back end of the warehouse. The rays met the floor at a sharp angle. What the sun revealed on the floor wasn’t something that Jasper wanted to find. There was a darkened shape of a body lying on the floor. Jasper ran over to the body. He could clearly see who it was. It was Nicholas Roth. Sorrow hit Jasper as he thought of Hailey and Titus. Nicholas’ neck was snapped at an odd angle. There were a bunch of papers sticking out of his clenched fist. Jasper pried open Nicholas’ hand and removed the papers. It was a bunch of handwritten notes, mostly about Marcus. Jasper folded them up and stuck them in his coat pocket. He took out his cell phone and first called Carlisle. He would call Titus after everything was figured out.

Jasper dialed Carlisle’s number. It rang twice before Carlisle answered.

“Carlisle, its Jasper.”

“Jasper. You have news?”

“I do. Nicholas is dead. I just found his body.”

Silence was met on the other end.

“Carlisle?”

“Yes, I am here. I was afraid that was the case.”

“What do you want me to do?”

“Bring Nicholas’ body back to Fork’s. He deserves a proper burial.”

“Alright.”

“Anything else?” Carlisle asked.

“I met up with Titus Mortenson, Hailey’s father. He was rather sympathetic. He wants me to let him know if I found anything.”

“Good. Make sure you do that. Maybe he’ll feel the desire to come back with you. It’s the most her can do at least for Hailey.”

“I agree. I also found some papers clutched in Nicholas’ hand. I believe they are about Marcus.”

“Ok. Bring them with you. Come home as soon as possible.”

“I will. I’ll talk to you soon.”

Jasper hung up and quickly dialed Titus’ number. Upon telling Titus about Nicholas, Titus broke down. Jasper asked if he would like to return to Fork’s with him. Titus agreed it would be the best course of action. He wanted to be there for Hailey as she was his last living relative.

Jasper placed Nicholas’ body in the trunk of his car. He covered the body with a soft blanket, in respect. Jasper drove back to the Mortenson’s house to pick up Titus. Titus was waiting outside the house; a suitcase in hand. Jasper could tell that he had been crying but now it was replaced with anger.

“I’m sorry, Mr. Mortenson.” Jasper said with sorrow.

“Thank you.” Titus said while throwing his suitcase in the backseat of Jasper’s car. Jasper got in the driver’s seat while Titus sat up front. Nothing else was said on the entire trip to Fork’s. Nothing could be said. There was too much sorry for either of them to make small talk. Jasper feared that Hailey would be in worse shape. So much tragedy in her life.

~*~

Carlisle had received the call from Jasper while he was in his study. Alice was spending time with Hailey to keep her mind off Nicholas. It was impossible to keep it from her now. She must be told. He went downstairs to find Alice and Hailey watching a movie in the living room.

Alice turned off the movie when Carlisle came into the room. He looked at Hailey with sadness in his eyes.

“Hailey, Jasper just called.”

Hailey looked up into Carlisle’s eyes; knowing that something had happened.

“He found Nicholas…dead.”

Hailey brought a shaking hand to her mouth. There were no words that she could say. She expected this to happen but all the emotions came flooding at once. She began to hyperventilate, which worried Carlisle.

“Calm down, Hailey.” He tried to soothe her.

Alice put a comforting arm around Hailey’s shoulders. Hailey let the tears fall, drenching her face. She couldn’t believe that Nicholas was gone. They had just found each other and now they were torn apart.

Carlisle looked to Alice and frowned. He motioned for her to follow him to the kitchen. Alice removed her arm from around Hailey and went with Carlisle.

“Alice, we need to make arrangements. Jasper is bringing back Nicholas’ body. It would be respectful to give him the proper burial. For Hailey’s sake. Another thing…Hailey’s father will probably be coming.”

“After all this time? He waits until one of his children dies to care?” Alice scowled.

“Alice, don’t be that way. For all intensive purposes he didn’t know Hailey or Nicholas were still alive.”

“He didn’t even try to look for them either.” This annoyed Alice. She didn’t understand how someone could be so distant to the ones you are related to.

“Let Hailey be the deciding factor. She’s the only one who can be judgmental in these situations. Where’s Edward?”

“Where do you think?” Alice snapped.

“Call him. I know you hate to be the bearer of bad news but Bella needs to know.”

“Alright.” Alice sighed. “What about Hailey? You shouldn’t leave her alone.”

They heard the back door slam. Alice rushed out to the living room. Hailey was gone. Alice turned to face Carlisle.

“I knew it. I shouldn’t have left her alone, Carlisle!”

“She’s going into the forest. I’ll go after her. Do what I asked.”

“Fine.”

Carlisle quickly went out the back door, honing his senses onto Hailey’s smell. She seemed to be going towards the cliff. This worried him because the cliff was high up. He quickened his pace, going in the general direction of the cliff. He didn’t want to spook her if she was attempting to take her life. He didn’t think she would but he would take caution just the same.

A gentle rain started falling which gave Carlisle a sign that Hailey was upset and letting her emotions take control.

When he got closer to the cliff he slowed down. He walked through a grove of trees to see Hailey sitting on the edge of the cliff. She held her knees against her chest with her head buried in her knees. Carlisle walked over to her and sat down beside her.

“Hailey, I know this is hard for you but you need to be strong.”

“How could you possible know how hard it is for me?” Hailey responded. “Nicholas just found me and now he’s gone. How am I supposed to feel about that?”

“You just need to be strong. If you are weak then people will take advantage of you, especially Marcus.”

“Do you think he did this to get to me?”

“Yes, I do.”

“Alright. I will try to be stronger.” Hailey sighed.

“There is something else you should know. Your father, Titus Mortenson, is coming with Jasper.”

“My father? My paternal father?”

“Yes. Jasper found him and told him about the situation. That is how Jasper found Nicholas.”

“I see.”

Hailey didn’t’ know how to feel about her father coming. She didn’t know him. How could she know him since he put her in an orphanage when she was little?

“If I were you, I would give him a chance Hailey. He is coming to see you.”

“I will try. It’s just an unusual situation.”

“I understand.”

Carlisle turned to look into the forest. He heard something or someone coming. He smelled the air and automatically knew who it was.

“He’s a bold one.” He thought.

He turned back to Hailey and frowned.

“Jacob is coming.”

“What?! He’s going to get himself in trouble.” Hailey scowled. She got up from where she was sitting and looked into the forest.

Carlisle didn’t leave as Hailey anticipated Jacob’s appearance. Hailey watched the forest for signs that Jacob was coming. Then she saw a blur of something moving quickly among the trees. Jacob was in his wolf form as he emerged out of the trees. Upon seeing Carlisle he transformed. He was shirtless which made Hailey uncomfortable.

“Jacob, why are you here?” She asked, trying not to blush.

“It was raining and I sensed your pain. I wanted to make sure you were alright.”

“I’m fine.” Hailey lied, turning around to look towards the cliff.

“Don’t lie to me, Hailey.”

“What does it matter?”

“It matters to me. What happened?”

“Nicholas….is dead.” Hailey said bluntly.

“What?! How?” Jacob said as he walked over to Hailey.

Tears continued to fall as Hailey tried not to look into Jacob’s eyes.

“He…Marcus…murdered him…out of revenge…for me!”

Jacob looked over at Carlisle who was leaning against a tree. Carlisle nodded his head to answer Jacob’s nonverbal question.

“So it was the truth.” Jacob thought. He turned back to Hailey. Her eyes were distant.

“I’m sorry, Hails. What can I do?” Jacob put his strong arms around her body. She didn’t return the embrace nor did she answer his question.

“Hailey? Look at me!” Jacob let her go from the embrace, grabbing her face with his hands, looking right into her cold eyes.

“There is nothing you can do. Just leave me alone!”

For the first time since they had been together, Hailey pushed Jacob away. She knew he cared about her but she didn’t want him to be around her until this all had blown over. She didn’t know when that would be.

Hailey turned away from Jacob and started to walk back to the house. Carlisle lingered. He walked over to Jacob and placed a hand on his shoulder.

“Give her some space, Jacob. She is going through a lot right now. Her brother just died in the hands of Marcus and her father is coming.”

“Her father? The one who abandoned her?”

“Yes.”

“Well no wonder then.”

Jacob sighed.

“I will give her space but I won’t stop caring for her.”

“I wouldn’t expect anything less, Jacob.” Carlisle let a smile tug at the corner of his mouth. He then turned and followed Hailey back to the house.

Jacob was left alone, watching Hailey leave. It hurt him to see her leave like that…to reject him. In his heart he knew that she cared for him but she needed her space. He wished that she would trust him and let him be there for her.

Would you tremble if I touched your lips? Would you laugh oh please tell me these. Now would you die for the one you love? Hold me in your arms tonight? I can be you hero baby. I can kiss away the pain. I will stand by you forever. You can take my breath away. Am I in too deep? Have I lost my mind? I don't care, you're here tonight.

~*~

Jasper arrived the next morning. It was a solemn throughout the Cullen household. Hailey refused to meet Titus right away. She was angry at him for not seeking her and Nicholas but she was also too sad to want to meet him. She remained in Alice’s room, keeping to herself.

Edward had told the news to Bella, who wasn’t handling it very well. Charlie was sorry that it happened but handled the news much better. Edward left Bella with Charlie and returned to the house.

Charlie and Alice had arranged the funeral, taking Nicholas’ body to a local funeral parlor. The ceremony would be in a week’s time.

When Alice returned she introduced herself to Titus. He was sitting in the living room, talking to Carlisle, Edward and Jasper.

Alice sat down next to Jasper, taking a hold of his hand.

“Titus, this is Alice, my wife.” Jasper introduced.

“Nice to meet you, Alice. I hear you have been a real support to my daughter.”

“Yes, I have. She’s like a sister to me.”

Titus smiled.

“I regret not seeking Nicholas and Hailey out earlier. I wanted to but didn’t know where to start.”

“It’s alright, Titus.” Carlisle reassured. “You are here now. That counts as something.”

“I suppose. I just wish Hailey would want to meet me.”

Carlisle faced Alice.

“Alice, why don’t you see if you can convince Hailey to come down.”

“Alright. Pardon me.” Alice said as she got up and went upstairs.

“There is something you need to understand.” Edward spoke up after Alice left. “Hailey has been through a lot. She finds out she’s a vampire, almost dies by the hand of werewolves, Nicholas gets killed by Marcus and now you are here. It’s too much. Even the strongest person would break under the pressure.”

“I can understand that. I’m sure she has some underlying hatred for me.”

“I don’t think she had time to feel any anger towards you. She barely knows of you.”

“You are probably right.”

“We’ll find out if Alice a convince Hailey to come down.” Jasper said.

~*~

Alice walked up the stairs softly. She didn’t know in what condition Hailey was in. She went up to her own room’s door and peeked inside. Hailey was curled up on the couch, a warm blanket wrapped around her.

“Hailey?”

“Hi Alice.”

“How are you feeling?” Alice asked.

“I’m alright. Just dealing.”

“Good to hear.” Alice paused. “Your father wants to meet you.”

“Alice, I’ll put it blunt. I don’t want anything to do with him.”

“I don’t blame you but it’s rude of you not to at least meet him. I personally don’t like the guy but I still talked to him.”

Hailey sighed, not wanting to agree with Alice.

“Please?” Alice begged. “You won’t be alone.”

“I know.”

“Jacob would want you to.”

Hailey frowned.

“I don’t think Jacob likes me at the moment.”

“Why?”

“I pushed him away yesterday when he was trying to comfort me.”

“I’m sure he knows you didn’t mean it.”

“I would like to hope that is the case.”

“Tell you what. You go meet your father and I will drive you to La Push to talk to Jacob.”

“You would do that?”

“Of course! You’re my sister.” Alice gave Hailey a huge hug and grabbed her hand. “Let’s go.”

Hailey consented to Alice’s wishes, knowing that she would get the opportunity to talk to Jacob afterwards.

They left Alice’s room and headed downstairs. Everyone was quiet when Hailey entered the living room.

Titus was the first to stand up. He walked over to Hailey, who stopped by the chair Carlisle was sitting in.

“Hailey? I’m your father, Titus Mortenson.”

Titus held out his hand to shake Hailey’s. Hailey held back but attentively reached out his hand. She heard a sigh of relief from Jasper.

Titus was in shock. Hailey looked identical to Angeline, even to the color of her hair and facial expressions. He was almost speechless.

“It’s nice to finally meet you, Hailey.” Titus said.

“Same here.” Hailey responded.

“I’m sorry about Nicholas. I truly am. I hope you know that.”

“I know. I’m sorry if I seemed cold towards you. I’ve just been dealing with a lot lately.”

“I understand, Hailey. I’m just glad you don’t hate me.”

“I could never hate my own father.” She began to cry.

Hailey ran over to Titus and gave him a big hug, burying her head into his shoulder.

~*~

Alice kept her promise. She drove Hailey to La Push, ignoring the treaty for just one day. Alice pulled into the Black’s driveway. Hailey turned to Alice with a frown.

“I don’t know about this, Alice.”

“What do you mean?”

“I…what if he doesn’t want to see me?”

Alice laughed.

“Are you serious? He’ll be enthralled to see you.”

“You saw that?”

“Yep.” Alice smiled.

“Alright.” Hailey said as she popped open her door. “I’ll see you later then.”

“Be careful. We’ll be watching from a distance.”

“Everything will be fine. Jacob will protect me.” Hailey smiled.

She shut the door softly and stepped back; waving to Alice as she drove off.

This would be the first time since the attack that Hailey would be alone in La Push with Jacob. It gave her relief to know that the Cullen’s finally trusted her with Jacob.

She walked up to the door and knocked softly. Jacob opened the door instantly. He was fully at ease. Jacob leaned against the door jam, grinning, once he saw that it was Hailey. He had smelled a vampire but wasn’t sure which one it was.

“I…I…” Hailey stuttered. “I’ve come to apologize.” She was finally able to say. She bowed her head in shame.

Jacob reached over and lifted her head up, looking into her amber eyes.

“There is nothing to apologize for, Hails.”

“How can you say that? I pushed you away.”

“I know but I also know you are going through a lot right now.”

“That is no excuse on my part. I let my emotions control me. I’ve been pushing everyone away – even my father.”

“Your father just came out of nowhere and expected you to be happy about it.”

Hailey frowned. Jacob let go of her chin and dropped his hand.

“What? Did I say something wrong?”

“No. No. I just don’t know how I feel about it yet. I accepted him but I think it will take time to fully appreciate him.”

“Of course. That’s understandable.”

“May I come in?” Hailey asked.

“You don’t have to ask permission to come in.”

“Well I can’t come in with you blocking the door.” Hailey grinned.

“True. True.” Jacob laughed.

Jacob took Hailey’s hand and led her inside. They walked into the living room and sat on the couch, together.

“Jake, I just noticed. You cut your hair.” Hailey said as she looked as his face. The long black tresses were no longer there.

“Yea. I wanted to look presentable for the funeral.” Jacob frowned.

“You’re coming?” Hailey asked seriously.

“Of course I am. I’m your support. I love you too much to not go with you. It will be a hard time for all of you.”

Hailey nodded.

“Thank you, Jake.” Hailey leaned her head on Jacob’s shoulder. “It means a lot.”

“Anything for you, sweetie.”

Jacob reached down and lifted her hand to his lips, softly kissing the top of it. Hailey smiled and closed her eyes. The warmth of his body took the chill off her own, raising the temperature to human norm.

They sat like that for quite some time before either of them said anything.

“Where is Billy?” Hailey asked.

“He’s over at Bella’s watching a game.”

Hailey chuckled.

“Poor Edward. That’s where he is.”

“Oh I’m sure he’s enjoying that.” Jacob grinned, knowing how it felt to be over at the Swan’s when a game was on.

“Yea. I have yet to have that pleasure.”

“You’re not missing much.” Jacob frowned. “He’s watching you, isn’t he?”

“More like listening to my thoughts.”

“How rude.”

“It’s not so bad. At least I’m allowed to be with you.”

“That is true. I’m loving every minute of it.”

Hailey smiled, taking a hold of Jacob’s hand.

“Me too. Alice will be back to pick me up soon, though.”

“Don’t ruin the moment.” Jacob said while putting a finger to her lips to hush her. He then leaned over and planted a kiss full on her lips. Hailey closed her eyes and delved deeply into the moment. When Jacob released her from the kiss, he had a huge grin on his face. He had thoroughly enjoyed it and so did she.

“Are you going to pick me up on Monday or meet me at the cemetery?”

“I figured it would be more appropriate to meet you there. The Cullen’s wouldn’t be very pleased if I showed up at the house to take you myself.”

“That is true. I appreciate it though, Jake. Meet me around 4 o’clock.”

“Alright. I shall do that.” Jacob kissed her forehead. They then heard the sounds of someone pulling into the driveway.

“It’s Alice.” Jacob said.

Hailey frowned. She was sad that the moment was over but glad for the time with Jacob.

“Guess it’s time to go then.”

A soft knock was heard on the door. Jacob got up to answer it. Sure enough Alice was standing there. She smiled as Hailey appeared behind Jacob.

“Alice, make sure you tell your family thanks for letting Hailey come.” Jacob said.

“I will. It’s the best we can do considering. There are some in my family who still have problems with you but they’ll get over it eventually.”

“Hope so.”

Jacob turned to face Hailey and gave her one final kiss goodbye.

“I’ll see you Monday.” He said.

“Alright.”

Hailey turned and left Jacob standing in the doorway. He waved as they pulled out of the driveway.

“Have a good time?” Alice asked after they pulled out onto the highway.

“I did. Thank you.” Hailey smiled.

“My pleasure. You have to tell me all the details though!”

Alice continued to ask questions through the entire trip back to Fork’s. They pulled into the Cullen’s driveway in the late evening. No one asked Hailey about her visit out of courtesy to her feelings. Only Alice and Edward knew.

Baby, I see your future and it's tied to mine. I look in your eyes and see you searching for a sign. But you'll never fall till you let go. Don't be so scared of what you don't know.

~*~

Hailey looked in the mirror, not liking what she saw. Her face was drenched with tears. It was Monday, the day of the funeral. All the Cullen’s were out in the forest, hunting, since they would be around humans in the evening. Hailey would be alright, her mind was too focused on the events of the evening.

Alice had bought her a black dress and shoes for the funeral, which Hailey was thankful for. She would have forgotten if Alice hadn’t reminded her. It was already mid-day so Hailey decided to slowly get ready. She undressed and slipped on the dress. It was very simple with a low plunging neckline. It had spaghetti straps which would be nice on the spring day. The dress also had a top which she pulled on. The shoes were flats and very comfortable which would help with standing all day. Hailey decided to leave her hair down. Nicholas liked it that way.

By the time she was finished getting ready it was close to 1 o’clock. They would be leaving around 3 o’clock so they would have plenty of time to get to the cemetery. Even though the cemetery was in Fork’s, it was a long drive along windy roads.

Hailey looked into the mirror one last time before heading downstairs.

Emmett was back already, sitting in the living room. He stood up when she entered.

“You look beautiful, Hailey.” He said.

“Thank you, Emmett.” Hailey responded, not allowing herself to smile.

Emmett smiled at her.

“Carlisle wanted me to give you this. He didn’t know if he would have time when he got back.” Emmett handed her a small box.

She opened it to reveal a shiny new cell phone. She didn’t expect anything like this.

“It has all of our numbers already in it, so you won’t have to worry about entering them in.” Emmett continued.

“He didn’t have to do this.”

“We wanted you to have it…for protection. After the attack in La Push we were weary that you were there without a way to contact us.”

“I appreciate that.” She smiled. “Now I won’t have to use anybody else’s.”

“Exactly!” Emmett laughed.

“I’m going to sit outside for a while.” Hailey said, ignoring his laughter. “If that is allowed.”

“I think so. I just need to go change and I’ll be right down.”

“Ok.”

Hailey walked out the front door. The sky was clear and the bright afternoon sun was shining down. It was very bright but that would change as soon as the sun started to sink down.

She sat down in one of the wicker chairs that lined the front porch. Closing her eyes, her mind went immediately to her memories of Nicholas. She only had a few but there were enough to keep her going. She still couldn’t believe that he was gone. It felt like a part of her was missing but she would need to continue on. He would want her to. She would not give up.

It wasn’t long before she heard Emmett come down the stairs and come outside. He sat next to her but didn’t say a word. It seemed like a long time before she heard commotion inside from the other Cullen’s returning. By the time everyone got dressed it was around 2:30. Carlisle was the first to find Hailey. He sat down on the other side of Hailey, putting a comforting hand on her own hand.

“Are you alright?” He asked.

“I’m fine.” Hailey said calmly.

“Ready to go?” Edward said as he came outside.

“Yes. I’m ready.”

Hailey got up out of her seat and waited for Edward and Emmett to get the cars out of the garage. They had decided earlier that they would take Emmett’s Jeep and Carlisle’s Mercedes.

At that time Rosalie, Alice and Esme came out with Jasper following behind them. Alice walked over to Hailey and placed a soothing arm around her. Hailey smiled for her.

“You look good in that dress.” Alice teased.

“I really don’t care what I look like. It is Nicholas’ day.”

“He would want you to look good.” Esme commented.

“Esme is right.” Rosalie said which shocked everyone. “Come on.” She grabbed Hailey’s hand and dragged her to Emmett’s Jeep. That was the first time Rosalie had ever touched Hailey let alone grab her hand. It amazed Hailey but then she thought that maybe she was just being nice for today.

They all piled into the cars and made their way to the cemetery. The cemetery was located on the west side of the Sullivan Trail. There were rolling, green fields surrounding the cemetery. Bright white tombstones lined the fields. In the middle of the cemetery was a single white pavilion. On its steeple stood a cross, reminding Haley of where she was and why they were there.

When they pulled into the entrance of the cemetery, Hailey could see a tented area in the distance. She assumed that was there Nicholas was to be buried. She could also see Charlie’s cruiser and Jacob’s truck parked nearby. The hearse from the funeral parlor was parked beside the tent.

They pulled up to the gravesite and parked. Hailey was the first to get out of the jeep. She could see Jacob standing near Bella and Charlie under the tent. In the middle of the tent was the casket where Nicholas lay. Flowers surrounded the casket and around the tent. A few rows of chairs were lined up in front of the casket; just enough for all that were going to be there.

Hailey walked over to where Jacob stood. Bella was the first to give her a hug. Charlie put his arms around Hailey. She was thankful for a family that cared about her. Titus stood nearby as well. He had come earlier, not wanting to ride with the Cullen’s. Everyone smiled at her but kept silent. There was nothing more to be said that wasn’t already said.

Jacob was the last to come up beside Hailey. He grabbed her hand, squeezing it gently.

At that time the pastor came around the casket and asked everyone to be seated. Hailey led Jacob to one of the front seats and sat down. He sat down beside her, not letting go of her hand. Titus sat down next to Jacob not feeling uncomfortable like the rest of the Cullen’s.

Hailey listened as the pastor began the service not realizing that someone else was watching in the distance.

~*~

Marcus Delacroix had followed Jasper when he came back to Fork’s. He was annoyed that Hailey wasn’t the one that showed up to find Nicholas but it didn’t surprise him. He knew that one of the Cullen’s would come. He followed closely as Jasper had contacted Titus Mortenson. He was curious why he had done that but the pieces had all fallen in place. He should have showed himself at the warehouse but he thought it best to wait for the right moment.

He wished he was there to see Hailey’s reaction when Jasper told them the news but he was sure that it was a very emotional moment. Seeing her now, though, he was surprised. She was dealing with it much better than he had expected. This proved, even more, that Hailey was strong.

Marcus had followed them to the cemetery. What had astonished him was the fact that both humans and a werewolf were present. Humans he could deal with but the werewolf aggravated him. Seeing Titus there with them interested him as well. He wondered if Titus was trying to reach out to Hailey after all those years of rejecting her. How appropriate to show up when her brother had died.

He watched as Hailey got out of the jeep. Marcus had himself hidden behind a grove of trees by the gravesite. He growled when he saw the werewolf grab Hailey’s hand.

“Something is going on between those two.” He thought.

Marcus continued to watch them. He kept his entire focus on Hailey and the werewolf. He watched every movement and every emotion. After the ceremony was over, Marcus made a decision. He would have to hurt him. It would be the final move before taking care of Hailey. Everything would fall into place or at least he hoped it would.

~*~

The ceremony continued on. The pastor presented Nicholas as Hailey had imagined. It was a beautiful message. At the end of the message, Hailey got up and placed a single white rose on the top of Nicholas’ casket. She stood there, letting her emotions take control. Tears started to fall, dropping slowly onto the top of the casket. Jacob came up behind her and placed a rose on it as well. Titus followed suit. After placing the rose, Titus came around and put his arm around her. Hailey leaned her head on his shoulder, closing her eyes to the pain.

After a few minutes of silence, Hailey composed herself and started walking back to the cars. A strange feeling came up on her…she felt like someone was watching her.

Then it happened.

The same voice that she had heard over and over again.

She froze.

“Wasn’t that sentimental. How emotional you are.”

“Hailey!” Jacob yelled as he ran up to her.

Alice came after Jacob and held him back.

“Don’t break the connection. Marcus is talking to her.” She said.

Titus hissed at the mention of Marcus’ name.

“What is he doing to her?” He asked.

“He’s talking to her in her mind.” Alice answered.

“Quite a family you have. Humans, Vampires and a Werewolf.” Marcus continued. “How quaint.”

“The werewolf we could do without. He’s just a nuisance. I’ll have to remove him as soon as possible. Once he’s out of the way, you are next.”

Hailey gasped as the connection broke. Anger rose inside of her. The bright sky clouded over quickly, causing the sun to disappear. Thunder rolled in as the rain poured down.

She balled her fists in rage. Before she could do anything further, Jasper was beside her.

“What did he say this time?”

Her anger paused as she pondered the question. Turning to Jasper she frowned.

“Jacob is next. He plans to harm Jacob!”

“What?” Jacob said, hearing his name.

“Marcus is trying to kill everyone around me who I care for.” Hailey explained. “He thinks he will get you next.”

“He’ll never get me.” Jacob scowled.

“Do not assume anything, Jacob.” Carlisle said. “He has killed many.”

“I don’t think he realizes how strong I am.” Jacob said proudly. “He won’t touch me.”

“Let’s go, before he tries something.” Jasper interjected as he pushed Hailey towards the cars.

“Jacob, meet us at the house.” Carlisle said before getting into his car.

“Alright.” Jacob seemed dejected but headed for truck just the same.

Hailey climbed into the jeep, letting her rage kindle. She looked back at the grave of Nicholas, swearing revenge for his death.

“Marcus will not live for long.” She thought as they drove away. “I won’t let him harm Jacob.”

~*~

Tonight, out on the street, out in the moonlight and you know this feels too right.
It's just like déjà vu me standing here with you. So I'll be holding my own breath, could this be the end? Is it that moment when I find the one that I'll spend forever with?

A couple days had passed since the funeral. Everything had settled down. Hailey even started to enjoy each day again. Jacob had been a real support to her, calling every night to make sure she was alright.

It was Saturday and she was supposed to go to La Push to see Jacob. He had something planned but she didn’t know what, which annoyed her.

“Carlisle?” Hailey asked as she entered his study.

“What is it dear?” He smiled as he looked up to her.

“Umm….Jacob invited me to go to La Push today. I was wondering if I could go and borrow a car.”

Carlisle thought for a minute.

“I will allow it but Edward will be close by, listening.”

“That is fine.” Hailey smiled. “Which car?”

“Take mine. I won’t be going anywhere today.”

“Are you sure?”

“Positive. Go have fun but be safe.” Carlisle smiled.

“I will.”

Hailey was ecstatic. She went into Alice’s room and picked out an outfit. She looked through Alice’s closet – no longer off limits anymore. Jacob liked her in yellow. He said that she was his bright star and liked her to wear something bright to represent that.

She grabbed a yellow peasant blouse and a pair of jeans. Hailey was glad that she was the same size as Alice. They fit perfectly. Hailey also grabbed a pair of white socks and her sneakers.

Checking her hair in the mirror, she put it up in a ponytail. Satisfied with how she looked, she skipped down the stairs. Hailey went into the kitchen and grabbed Carlisle’s car keys before heading out the front door to the garage.

She opened the garage to reveal all of the Cullen’s cars. Carlisle’s the last in the row; a black Mercedes. Hailey opened the door and sat down in the driver’s seat. Sticking the key into the ignition, she started it up. It purred as the engine revved up. Slowly she backed out of the garage and pulled down the driveway.

It was a beautiful day so she put her window down, letting the breeze flow in her face. Her senses went wild. She could smell the ocean miles before she even closed the border into La Push.

Jacob was sitting on his front porch as Hailey pulled into the driveway. He walked over to her as she stopped the engine; leaning down and looking at her through the open window.

“You are beautiful, Hails.” He said.

“I bet you say that to all the girls.” Hailey chided.

“Ha! What other girls are you referring to? There has been only one and that’s you.”

“You aren’t lying to me, are you?”

“Nope. I never lie to you.”

Hailey opened her door, smacking Jacob in the jaw with the door. Jacob stood up, rubbing his jaw.

“What was that for?”

Hailey laughed.

“For lying to me, you turd.” She hit him teasingly.

Jacob was speechless. Hailey reached up with her hand and touched his face gently.

“I did it because I love you.” She corrected.

“You have a strange way of showing it.”

Hailey grinned the same way Jacob had always done.

“So, what are we doing today?” She asked.

“A picnic at the cliff and maybe a long walk afterwards.”

“Is it safe to do that?” Hailey asked, her thought going back to the attack.

“Don’t worry. You’ll be safe. I have Embry and Seth on watch.”

“Alright. I trust you.”

“Let’s go.” Jacob took Hailey’s hand and led her to his truck. They drove to the cliff and parked. Jacob hopped out and went to the back of his truck, pulling out a blanket and a basket. Hailey took the blanket out of his hands and carried it while following Jacob to a grassy knoll by the cliff edge.

Hailey spread the blanket on the ground, making sure there were no lumps underneath. Jacob set the basket down. He surprised Hailey when he pulled out a dozen roses and handed them to her.

She blushed a little bit but took them. She brought them up to her nose and took a deep breath. The beautiful aroma surrounded her.

“You romantic person you.” She laughed.

“Beautiful roses for a beautiful woman.” He smiled.

Jacob continued to unpack the basket; pulling out fried chicken, salad, lemonade and what looked like chocolate brownies.

“You’ve been productive. You do realize I can’t really eat any of this, though.” Hailey placed the roses on the blanket and leaned on her elbow looking up at Jacob. His eyes twinkled at her which made her feel warm inside.

“I know. I’ve prepared for that, with Alice’s help.”

He pulled out a jar of red liquid. It sloshed against the sides of the jar, coating it with its thickness.

“Is that what I think it is?”

“Yep. It’s blood, just for you.”

“Aww…Jacob. You are too sweet.”

He handed her the jar, taking out a cup for her to use.

“This won’t gross you out?” Hailey asked.

“Nah. I’m used to it. I will deal with it.” Jacob winked.

Hailey looked at him quizzically. He was planning something….she knew he was. He was being too giddy…at least than normal.

They continued through their lunch. Hailey was enjoying the time. It was very relaxing after all the stress of the week. Jacob cleaned up what was left of the food and placed it back in the basket.

Hailey leaned back on the blanket, not wanting this moment to end. Jacob lay down beside her, looking into her eyes. He leaned over and curled one of her strands of hair around his finger.

“I love you Hailey Swan.”

“I love you too, Jacob Black.”

Everybody wants to be understood; well I can hear you. Everybody wants to be loved. Don't give up because you are loved.

Hailey sat up and hugged her knees. Jacob sat up beside her and put a arm around her.

“Would you like to take a walk?” He asked.

“I would love to.” Hailey said while looking at him.

“Let’s put everything back in the truck then.”

“Alright.”

Hailey stood up and lifted the blanket and gently folded it; placing it on top of the basket. Jacob carried the basket back to the truck and walked back to where Hailey stood. He took her hand and they started to walk over to the edge of the cliff.

They walked hand in hand, in silence, alone the edge of the cliff. Hailey stopped once they got to the point. She walked to the edge and looked out at the ocean. She closed her eyes and listened to the sounds of the waves hitting the rocks below.

Jacob took the opportunity to get his plan into motion. He reached into his pocket and took out a box. It held a ring – an engagement ring. His plan was to ask Hailey to marry him.

Right now.

In this moment.

Now I’m wondering why I’ve kept this bottled inside. So I’ve started to regret not telling all of it to you.

He looked up at Hailey who still faced the ocean. He put the box back into his pocket. He walked over to where she stood.

“Hailey?” He asked.

“Yes?”

“There is something I’ve been meaning to ask you.”

“What is it?” She said, not turning around.

“Can you look at me, please?” His nerves were getting high.

So if I haven’t yet I’ve gotta let you know.

Hailey turned around and looked at him.

“Alright. I’m looking at you.”

Jacob took her hand, looking into her deep amber eyes.

“Ever since the day I saw you, I knew we were meant to be together. I love you a lot and I hope you feel the same.”

“You know I do.” Hailey interrupted.

“Let me finish. I want us to be together….together forever.”

You’re never gonna be alone from this moment on. If you ever feel like letting go I won’t let you fall. When all hope is gone I know that you can carry on. We’re gonna take the world along.”

Jacob kneeled down, still clasping her hand. Hailey gasped and put her other hand to her mouth as Jacob took out the box out of his pocket. He opened it, presenting it to her. The diamond sparkled in the sunlight. The white gold band reflected the sun in her eyes.

“Hailey Elizabeth Swan…will you marry me?”

Tears started to fall down Hailey’s cheeks. Her emotions were out of control. She started to sob uncontrollably.

“What is your answer?” Jacob asked.

“Yes…a million times yes!” Hailey said in-between sobs.

Jacob took the ring out of the box and placed it on her finger. He jumped up and put his arms around her; planting a kiss fully on her lips. Hailey joined in on the kiss and wrapped her own arms around his neck. She couldn’t feel happier but one thought entered into her mind.

The Cullen’s.

They wouldn’t be happy.

“Edward, if you can hear me.” She thought, knowing he was listening. “Don’t tell anyone.”

~*~

Alice gasped at the vision that was just presented to her. Jacob was going to propose to Hailey. She couldn’t feel anymore joy then that. Alice had hoped he would. The question was would Hailey say yes – Alice couldn’t imagine her saying no. Her vision told her that Hailey would say yes, but only Hailey could decide the true answer.

She couldn’t tell anyone either. Not Jasper, not Carlisle and not even Esme. She would leave that to Hailey. Many would not take it well but she would support Hailey. They couldn’t stop her from happiness especially after Nicholas’ death.

Then it occurred to her. Alice scowled. One person would know – Edward. He was on duty, listening to Hailey’s thoughts – protecting her in case of another werewolf attack. She hoped that Edward would not tell. She would wait for him to return to make sure he wouldn’t say anything.

~*~

“Edward!” Bella yelled. “Where are you going?”

Edward was running out the Swan’s front door. He had heard what happened with Hailey, ignoring what she told him. He needed to tell Carlisle what happened. Nobody would be happy about this with an exception to Alice. She would be thrilled.

“Home.” He yelled back at Bella. He jumped into his Volvo and pulled out of the Swan’s yard. He pushed his car to maximum speed. It took him only a few minutes.

Alice stood on the porch with her arms crossed. She knew he would be coming. Edward got out of his car and walked up to her.

“Don’t do it, Edward.” She scolded.

“We can’t keep it from Carlisle.”

“Are you ignoring the fact that Hailey asked you not to?”

“How did you know about that?”

Alice narrowed her eyes.

“Do you really have to ask?”

“No.” Edward scowled.

“If you set a foot in Carlisle’s office I shall hunt you down and kill you.”

“Such a threat, Alice.”

“Edward, let Hailey tell us.” She said sympathetically.

“Fine.” He said, storming off.

Alice gave a sigh of relief. Hopefully Hailey would be back soon.

~*~

Hailey didn’t want to leave. It had been a great day. Jacob was in high heaven after she had said yes to his proposal.

They had driven back to the Black’s house. Billy was there and was excited to hear the news.

“That is wonderful news! I’m gaining another daughter.” Billy said while giving Hailey a big hug. “Have you picked a date yet?”

Hailey laughed.

“Dad…” Jacob rolled his eyes.

“I’m kidding.” Billy said.

“In time.” Jacob commented, annoyed at his father.

“I have to go.” Hailey said to Jacob.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. Alice knows and probably Edward. They will be waiting.”

Jacob sighed.

“Alright.”

Jacob walked Hailey out to her car. He opened her door and let her sit down. He closed the door with one hand and leaned down to look at her through the window.

“Isn’t this where our day started?”

“Yes, but it ended sweeter.” Jacob said.

He kissed her on her forehead and stood up, backing away as she pulled away.

“Drive safe!” He yelled as she took off down the road.

Hailey anxiety started to build the closer she got to the Cullen’s. She knew many of them wouldn’t be happy but she didn’t care. She was immensely happy – surely they would understand that.

She took a deep break as she pulled up the driveway. Edward’s Volvo was parked out front. She pulled up behind it and parked. Alice rushed out the front door to greet Hailey.

“I’m so happy for you!” Alice exclaimed.

“Did he tell?” Hailey asked nervously.

“No. I threatened him.” Alice smiled.

“Can you tell everyone that I need to speak to them then?”

“I already have. They are waiting in the dining room.”

“Great.” Hailey said sarcastically.

She was nervous as she entered the house. Alice walked into the dining room ahead of Hailey. She sat down next to Jasper. Everyone looked up at Hailey as she walked in.

Rosalie’s eyes went to her hand. How could anybody not notice?

“Hailey?” Carlisle questioned. “What is this about?”

She swallowed hard.

“I…I have an announcement to make.” Hailey paused. “I’m engaged.”

Hailey grimaced and waited for the onslaught.

Jasper stood up and glared at Emmett.

“I’m going to kill him!” Emmett exclaimed.

Esme rushed over to Hailey with a smile and hugged her.

“That’s wonder dear.”

“Calm down, Emmett.” Carlisle warned.

Edward and Rosalie said nothing.

“What are you going to do about this?” Jasper asked Carlisle.

“Nothing.” He answered.

Jasper growled and walked over to Hailey.

“You need to break this up.”

Hailey was in shock. How could he say something like that? Tears started to flow down her face. Anger then built up inside of her. Defiance slipped into her voice.

“NO! I won’t! I love Jacob.”

Everyone stopped talking at her burst of rage. They stared at her and then over at Carlisle.

“This is going to ruin us, Carlisle.” Jasper said before storming out of the room. Alice rushed after him.

Carlisle looked over at Hailey with concern.

“Hailey, answer one question. Are you happy?”

Hailey didn’t have to think – she knew the answer.

“Yes. I am.”

“Then nothing more needs to be said except congratulations.” Carlisle walked over to Hailey and gave her a gentle hug.

“The rest of you will give her the respect she deserves. Understood?” Carlisle glared at Edward and Rosalie.

“Understood.” They chimed in.

“Then it’s settled. Hailey and Jacob will get married as soon as possible. It could possibly help strengthen the bonds between us and the werewolves.”

“I didn’t think of that.” Edward commented.

“I know you didn’t. You were too quick to judge poor Hailey. She’s been through enough.”

Edward turned to Hailey and frowned.

“I’m sorry, Hailey.”

“Apology accepted.” Hailey said, smiling back at Edward.

Inwardly she was thanking Carlisle. He was right. It could help strengthen the bonds between the two enemies. She knew Jacob would try his hardest. Hailey would as well. They had to be a support to each other.

~*~

Jacob couldn’t be happier. It was a beautiful day, Hailey accepted his proposal and he was working in his garage. He was working on a ’81 Corvette. It was his dream car. When he was finished with her it would be a present to Hailey. He smiled at the thought.

He leaned over to look in the engine. It was a hot day so he had removed his shirt. He was used to it. He put a wrench to one of the many bolts on the engine block. They were rusted over so it made it difficult to remove them. It didn’t take much effort for Jacob to remove them. He used his brute strength to twist them off. After removing all of them he placed them in a lubricant dip.

He stood up, wiping the grease off his hands. Sweat rolled down into his eyes. He wiped it off with the edge of his arm, trying not to get dirt into his eyes.

Jacob was proud of the job he had done so far. He was sure that Hailey would love it when he was done.

Taking a break, he went into the house to get a drink. He entered the kitchen and walked over to the refrigerator. Opening it, he reached inside to grab a can of soda. He popped open the top and gulped it down. It was very refreshing.

It was then that he felt a presence outside. He sniffed the air. It was a familiar scent. He knew that it wasn’t Hailey. She would have called him beforehand.

He was leery as he peeked out the screen door. A shadowy figure stood by the garage. Jacob didn’t recognize him. This annoyed him. No vampire would dare come to La Push except for an exact reason. Jacob walked back outside, keeping his distance.

“May I help you?” Jacob asked politely.

“You are Jacob Black?” The vampire said.

“It depends on who is asking.”

“Ah. Smart one, are we.”

He walked out of the shadow, revealing himself.

“I’m Marcus Delacroix.”

Jacob growled.

“You aren’t welcome here!” Jacob hissed.

“Same thing Hailey told me but I choose to ignore it.” Marcus grinned.

“Then you’ll die.”

“Wouldn’t that be nice if you could actually achieve it?”

“Is that a challenge?!”

“If it was a fair fight.”

“How dare you!”

Jacob’s anger increased. He quickly transformed into his wolf form, sending a ear piercing how towards the sky. Two howls echoed from the forest.

He bounded towards Marcus and leaped into an attack. He landed right on top of Marcus, knocking him to the ground. Jacob took a swipe at Marcus with his claws, leaving four distinct marks. If Marcus had any blood in his body, Jacob would have drawn blood.

Marcus tossed Jacob off of him and stood up, unfazed by Jacob’s attack.

“I see you are stronger then I thought.”

“You don’t mess with Hailey. If you harm her, I will kill you.” Jacob threatened.

“Such veil threats but you will live for today.”

Before Jacob could disagree, Marcus disappeared into the forest.

He phased back into his human form. His agitation still very high. The first thought that came to him was Hailey’s safety. He went back into the house and called Carlisle.

It rang only once before Carlisle answered.

“Carlisle? It’s Jacob. I just had an encounter with Marcus Delacroix.”

“What?!” Carlisle was shocked.

“He threatened me but not before I attacked him.”

“Are you alright?”

“I’m fine. He didn’t harm me. Told me he would let me live.”

“That’s odd.” Carlisle said curiously.

“I’m more worried about Hailey. He might be planning the final blow.”

“Right. Don’t worry. We are on guard. Thank you for the heads up.”

“I just want her safe.”

“I promise no harm will come to her, Jacob.”

“I trust you, Carlisle.”

“We’ll keep you informed.”

“Thanks. I appreciate it.”

Jacob hung up the phone before Carlisle could say goodbye.

“Be safe, Hailey.” He thought.

The last thing he wanted was for Marcus to harm her or even kill her. He would die if that happened.

~*~

“Jasper, you need to understand.”

He didn’t answer. Alice was trying to convince him that the marriage would be good for them.

“She loves him and even though it might be strange, he loves her.”

“How can you agree to this, Alice?”

“She’s our sister and deserves to be happy. She lost her brother for goodness sakes!”

Jasper sighed.

“I know. I just…this is difficult for me to comprehend.”

“I know, babe. It’s hard for all of use but I’ve learned to accept it. Hailey has never been happier.”

Alice smiled.

“Remember how you felt when you met me?”

Jasper smiled at the thought.

“You held out your hand, and I took it without stopping to make sense of what I was doing. For the first time in almost a century, I felt hope.”

“Exactly. That’s how Hailey feels.”

“Alright. I’ll accept it. He just better take good care of her or I swear he’ll suffer.”

Alice laughed.

“I’ll remember that next time you give me grief.”

Jasper frowned.

“You should go talk to her.”

“I will.”

“Right now, Jasper.”

“Why?”

“She’s upset. Carlisle just told her that Marcus tried to kill Jacob.”

His eyebrows furrowed in deep thought.

“What did this happen?”

“This morning.”

“That means he’ll be coming after Hailey.” Jasper growled. “Where is she?”

“In the living room.”

“By herself?”

“No, Emmett is with her. She’s driving him insane.” Alice chuckled.

“I’m going to go down there then. We’ll have to keep a sharp lookout for Marcus.”

“I’ll keep my mind open but if he has shielded his mind, it will be hard.”

“I know. Do your best.”

Jasper leaned over and kissed Alice on the forehead and left the room. He walked downstairs towards the living room only to see Hailey pacing back and forth. Emmett sat on the couch with his head in his hands. He was frustrated with his inability to calm Hailey down.

Jasper walked over to Hailey and blocked her path, grabbing hold of her.

“What’s wrong?” He said while looking Hailey in the eyes.

“Marcus…he tried to kill Jacob this morning. Carlisle just told me. He also told me that he expected Marcus would be coming after me now. I’m scared. I’ve caused so much trouble for all of you. I don’t want any of you to get hurt because of me.”

“You’re worrying about all the wrong things, Hailey. Trust me on this – none of us are in jeopardy. You are under too much strain as it is; don’t add to it with wholly unnecessary worries. Listen to me! Our family is strong. Our only fear is losing you.”

Hailey looked back into Jasper’s eyes, seeing the calm there. His voice was soothing to her. She knew he was right. She was worrying about stupid things. They would take care of Marcus before he touched a hair on her head.

“I’m sorry that I worry so much. I’ve just lost so much and don’t want to lose anything more.”

“That’s understandable.” Emmett piped up. “Don’t worry about Marcus. We’ll deal with him if he shows himself.”

Hailey smiled know that they wouldn’t stop at anything to protect her. This put her at ease as she sat down in the nearest chair.

“I trust all of you.”

“Good. Now just relax. It will be all over soon.” Jasper smiled.

~*~

Emmett suddenly got up off the couch and looked out the window. A sudden odor erupted through the front door. Emmett gritted his teeth and looked over at Jasper.

“He’s here.” He said.

Jasper growled.

“Where is Edward and Carlisle?”

“Carlisle is upstairs. Edward is hunting.”

Jasper turned to Hailey.

“Go upstairs and get Carlisle. I want you to stay up there with Alice. Understood?”

“Yes. Understood.” Hailey said and rushed upstairs. Carlisle came down a minute later.

“How are we going to handle this?” Carlisle asked.

“We’ll kill him, that’s what.” Emmett snapped.

“I figured that but we have to have a strategy.”

“It depends on what his first move is.” Jasper commented.

“We should be out there to meet him.” Emmett growled.

Before Carlisle could respond, a voice was heard from outside.

“Hailey Swan! I know you are in there.”

Carlisle looked out the door. Marcus was standing outside, in the middle of the driveway.

“This will end now.” Carlisle responded.

He walked out the front door. Emmett and Jasper followed behind him. All three of them formed a line on the front porch.

Marcus crossed his arms in disgust.

“Cullen’s….give me Hailey.” He boldly said.

“Do you really think we would just hand her over to you?”

“Yes, I do.”

“That won’t be happening.”

“What a shame. I guess I will just have to kill all three of you to get to her.”

A rush of wind and a blur went past the porch. In a second, Marcus was on the ground. Edward stood over top him.

“You mess with Hailey, you mess with the whole Coven.” Edward hissed.

“Wow. So many protective of Hailey. Here I thought nobody cared about her.”

“You are wrong.” Jasper said as he walked over.

“Enough talk. Time to end this.” Marcus growled.

Marcus jumped up and attacked Edward, knocking him to the ground.

Emmett rushed over and toppled Marcus down the slope of the driveway. They rolled down the hill until Emmett slammed Marcus into a tree. The tree cracked at the force of the impact. Emmett quickly countered, punching Marcus in the face many times. Emmett’s rage enveloped him.

Marcus tried to get a punch in but he was no match for Emmett’s strength. In one last effort Emmett twisted his neck and snapped it one motion. There was no fooling around when Emmett was angry. Marcus crumbled to the ground in one heap.

Carlisle looked down at Emmett from the top of the driveway, nodding his head to Emmett. The job was done. He looked back at Jasper who stood, composed next to Edward.

“Take the body to the cliff and burn it. Make sure nothing is left.”

Emmett and Jasper gladly did as they were told. Carlisle and Edward went back into the house to inform Hailey of the news.

~*~

Hailey went into Alice’s room after telling Carlisle about Marcus. Alice was out on her balcony, looking out into the forest.

“Do you see anything?” Hailey softly asked, not wanting to startle Alice.

“No. He’s shielded. He’s out there though – somewhere.”

A shiver went up Hailey’s spine. Just the idea that Marcus was out there and wanted to kill her, spooked her.

Here senses went out of control when she heard Marcus’ voice.

“Hailey Swan! I know you are in there.” He bellowed.

“He’s out front. Carlisle, Emmett and Jasper just went out to meet him.”

Hailey started to pace again. She looked out the balcony at Alice and then paced to the back window. Back and forth she continued. Anxiety filled her mind. She knew Alice could see the Cullen boys but the not knowing about Marcus put her on end.

“Edward just arrived and attacked Marcus.” Alice continued. “But Marcus attacked back.”

“Is Edward alright?” Hailey panicked.

“Yes. He’s fine. Emmett just attacked Marcus. I can’t tell if he finished the job or not. Wait…yes…they did. Jasper and Emmett are heading to the cliff.”

Alice changed her focus towards the cliff. Hailey joined her on the balcony, looking in the same direction. She couldn’t see anything but then a plume of smoke rose among the trees, rising into the sky.

“It’s finished, Hailey.” Alice said. “You are safe now.” She wrapped her arms around Hailey and hugged her. Hailey sighed and rested her head on Alice’s shoulder.

Carlisle and Edward walked into the room at that moment. Carlisle walked over to Hailey. He didn’t smile but put a comforting hand on her shoulder.

“It’s ok now, Hailey. No more worries.”

Hailey looked up into Carlisle’s soft, endearing eyes. She felt at peace now. There was nothing else she could possibly worry about now.

It's not always rainbows and butterflies. It's compromise that moves us along. My heart is full and my door's always open. You can come anytime you want. I don't mind spending everyday out on your corner in the pouring rain. Look for the girl with the broken smile and ask her if she wants to stay awhile. And she will be loved.

~*~

“I could watch him work all day.” Hailey sighed.

She had taken the day off from doing wedding planning to go visit Jacob. Alice was getting on her nerves. She knew she could relax with Jacob.

He was currently working on his car. His shirt was off and sweat was rolling down his back. Hailey leaned her elbows on the roof of the car and watched. She grinned mischievously.

Hailey was so entranced that she never noticed that Jacob had stopped working and was staring at her. The look on his face said, “I don’t know what you are thinking but it must be bad.”

Hailey laughed at his expression.

“Am I boring you?” He said after a minute.

“No. This is much more relaxing than wedding planning.”

Jacob came behind her and put his muscular arms around her waist.

“Is all this pain and annoyance worth it?” He softly whispered in her ear.

“Everything and more.”

“I’m glad. I would feel awful if it wasn’t worth it.”

Jacob nuzzled his face into her neck, softly kissing her. His hot breath tickled the hairs on her neck. She closed her eyes and enjoyed every minute of his caressing kisses. When she opened her eyes, she saw something she didn’t want to see.

“Jacob…”

“Hmm…”

“We are being watched.”

Jacob jerked his head up. His eyes immediately went to the driveway. Sure enough, Hailey was right. Alice and Jasper were standing there.

“You didn’t tell them you were coming, did you.” He mumbled.

Hailey grinned, suddenly embarrassed.

“No.”

Jacob sighed and let Hailey go. He went into the garage to slip his shirt back on. He came back out a second later.

“Alice…Jasper.” Jacob nodded his head towards them.

It had been 3 months since Marcus was killed. The Cullen’s had deepened their relationship with Jacob. They respected him more but still were very protective of Hailey. She wasn’t allowed to leave the house without telling someone about it first.

“Don’t look at me like that, Alice. I needed a break.” Hailey said.

“You should have told us nonetheless.” Jasper spoke. “Just because Marcus is gone doesn’t mean it is safe to come to La Push. No offense, Jacob.”

“None taken. I know the boundaries.”

“So much for a break.” Hailey mumbled under her breath. She understood why the Cullen’s were so protective but there was a line they shouldn’t cross and they were crossing it now. She looked over at Jacob and frowned. Jacob smiled at her, trying to make her feel better but it didn’t help.

“How did you even get here? I don’t see a car out front.” Alice asked.

“Ask Bella. She’s the one who brought me.” Hailey snapped.

Jasper frowned. He didn’t think Bella would do something that was against their wishes. Edward was another story. He was easily manipulated by Bella. He was sure that Hailey was very manipulative as well.

“We are leaving.” He curtly said.

Hailey sighed. She turned back to face Jacob, planting a kiss on his lips in goodbye.

“Call me.”

“I will.” Jacob responded, crossing his arms as they walked towards the front of the house and left.

He was annoyed at the way she was being treated by the Cullen’s but understood why they protected her. He hoped that once they were married this would all stop.

~*~

“You have got to be kidding me, Alice! They can’t cancel on me.” Hailey flopped down on the couch and put her head in her hands.

It was a week before the wedding. Hailey thought everything was pretty much all set until today. The caterer had called and cancelled. The flowers she wanted weren’t available and the dresses needed last minute alterations.

Hailey’s worst nightmare had come true. Everything was falling apart at the seams. She was slowly going insane.

“Hailey. It’s fine. I’ve already gotten everything situated. I called another caterer and they can do it. I also found another florist who had the daisies you wanted and we have an appointment this afternoon to do the alterations. They are even rushing the job for us.” Alice smiled, proud of herself.

Hailey looked up at Alice and smiled softly.

“You are a lifesaver, Alice. I don’t know what I would do without you.”

“That’s a good question.” Alice laughed.

“Why don’t men stress out about weddings?”

“Probably because they aren’t perfectionists like us. Everything has to be perfect in our eyes.”

“Not always – just on special occasions.”

“True. This is a very special occasion. Did you guys figure out where you are gong for your honeymoon?” Alice asked, hoping Hailey would spill the beans.

“We have and no you won’t get it out of me. There is no way in hell that I want any of you knowing where we will be.”

“You aren’t any fun, Hailey.” Alice pouted.

“Thanks Alice. I love you too.”

“It’s about time for that appointment. I’ll go grab the dresses and be right out.” Alice ignored Hailey’s comment.

“Alright. I’ll meet you outside.”

Hailey walked out the front door. This time next week she would be blissfully married to Jacob. She was happy but nervous. Who wouldn’t be? It was a bride thing she guessed.

She thought about what Alice had asked. A month ago she was asking herself the same question. Esme had solved that rather quickly. Carlisle had bought Esme an island when they were married. It was out in the Pacific, somewhere near Hawaii but far enough away to be secluded. It was called Isle Esme. This was where she and Jacob would be spending their honeymoon. It would be very relaxing and Hailey would be at peace and safe. Hailey closed her eyes and smiled; daydreaming that she was on that island. She could almost smell the salt air. The surf of the ocean was rolling in and out of the shore…palm trees surrounding a small house, blowing in the breeze.

“What are you smiling at?” Alice interrupted. She had both dresses laid over her arm.

“Nothing in particular.” Hailey said when she opened her eyes.

“Ready to go?”

“Yes. As ready as I’ll ever be.”

Alice smiled. She went to the garage and put the dresses in her Porsche. Hailey hopped in the front seat as Alice started the car. She pulled out of the garage and headed to Fork’s.

The bridal shop was located on the main street strip of downtown Fork’s. It was a small shop but big enough to have a large selection of dresses and other accessories.

Hailey and Alice walked into the shop and were greeted by the owner, Tanya Martin.

“Welcome! Hailey, Alice, it is so good to see you back.”

“Thank you, Tanya.”

“You’ve brought the dresses, good. Let’s see what we can do.”

Tanya took the dresses from Alice and hung them by a huge mirror in the back of the store. She took out Hailey’s gown first.

“Go put it on and come back out.” She said while handing Hailey her dress.

Hailey took it and went into the dressing room. She undressed quickly and slipped on the gown. It was a simple gown. It had spaghettis straps and an empire waist. Across the waist were gold sequins in an intricate pattern. It enhanced Hailey’s figure and was a perfect choice. She walked out of the dressing room and walked over to the mirror. It fit perfectly except that the straps were a bit loose. This was an easy fix.

An hour went by before they were completely finished. Hailey was glad that they accomplished that part of the wedding. Tanya said they would be done in a couple days. Since the wedding was at the end of the week, it released her anxiety level.

~*~

The rest of the week went smoothly. Nothing else came up except for the continual wedding planning. Hailey, Alice and the rest of the Cullen’s were in the meadow decorating for the wedding. It was Friday which meant the wedding was less than 2 days away.

The meadow was a beautiful place for a wedding. Wildflowers grew rampant. There were daisies, lilies, snapdragons and other flowers strewn around. It was like God had take a fist full of flowers and scattered them around like seed.

Emmett and Jasper were setting up a huge arch in the middle of the field. They were arguing with each other of where it should be placed. Carlisle had mowed a small section of the field so the ground was level. He and Titus had started setting up the chair in rows. There would be two rows with the middle section clear for the aisle. Hailey was busy, with Alice’s help, folding ribbons into bows. There were yellow bows and blue bows. They would tie them to the chairs later on. Rosalie and Esme were pulling petals off daisies for putting down the aisle.

“This is peaceful.” Hailey commented.

“I’m glad. I don’t like seeing you upset and stressing out. It doesn’t do the bride-to-be any good.” Alice encouraged Hailey. “How is Jacob fairing?”

“Oh he’s just fine. None of this stresses him out. Embry and Sam are taking him out tonight as a last hurrah as a bachelor.”

“That’s nice of them.”

“Well…yeah…if they behave themselves.” Hailey looked annoyed.

Alice laughed.

“They are guys. Do you really think that what they do tonight will be good?”

Hailey thought for a minute. “I suppose not. What am I thinking?”

“It’s alright, Hailey. You are all new to this kind of thing. Where are they going to change on Sunday?”

“The Swans. Charlie offered his home for my sake; otherwise they would have to drive all the way from La Push.”

“Understandable. That would be a long trek.”

“Yeah. They’ll be here for the rehearsal tomorrow, though.”

“Good. What time is that happening?”

“I think Pastor Dave said to be here around 2 o’clock.”

“Sounds good. Are you still going to do the memorial for Nicholas?”

“I plan on it. It is a good way to remember him – since he can’t be here to see me get married.”

“I think it is a wonderful idea.” Alice smiled. “Is Titus going to say anything?”

“I’m not sure. He hasn’t said anything to me about it.”

“It would be nice if he said something but maybe he still feels uncomfortable.”

“Yeah. I’m not sure.”

For the rest of the afternoon they continued to focus on decorating. After finishing in the meadow they headed back to the Cullen’s house to decorate the backyard. The reception was going to be held there.

They had set up a few tables for the wedding party, the families and the guests to sit during the reception. The decorating had the same theme. There were blue ribbons all over the tables. The tables were covered with yellow table cloths. There were also places for the cake, food, drinks and presents. Esme had purchased some beautiful candles and had them on the tables. They had planned to have the reception under the twilight of the moon. The candles would give the area a deep glow, illuminating the atmosphere.

“It’s beautiful, Esme.” Hailey commented once they were all finished.

“I’m glad you like it.” She said while giving Hailey a hug.

“Thank you for understanding about Jacob. It means a lot to both of us.”

“Hailey, for the record, Carlisle and I never had anything against Jacob. We were just concerned for your safety – especially after the attack.”

“I know. It must have been hard for all of you…that you couldn’t protect me. I just hope out marriage will help both sides get along better.”

“So do I, Hailey, so do I.”

~*~