Breather

Luck was on my side when I got up for school that morning; mama had the day off, so she was able to be up to make breakfast for us kids. The warm, crisp smell of waffles wafted up the backstairs from the kitchen, tickling my sinuses as I opened the attic door. My ears perked with interest, and I followed the tantalizing aroma across the hall and down the stairs to the first floor; the underlying scent of fresh fruit intermixed with that of the waffles brought a flood of saliva forth as I walked into the kitchen, and I smiled gratefully at mama as I walked around the island to join her. 

"Mornin', sweetheart." She hummed, kissing my cheek as I walked by to grab a glass from the cabinet; I kissed her cheek in return, murmuring a good morning, "So, was that Edward I sensed in your and Bella's room last night?" 

I should've known mama would've been able to sense another supernatural creature in our vicinity, whether she was asleep or awake, "Yeah, that was him." 

"He finally came to his sense, hm?" She didn't look up from the waffle maker as I hummed into my orange juice. "Well, it's about damn time." 

"Tell me about it." I snorted and shook my head as I joined mama at the island, pulling one of the bowls of fruit, a knife, and the chopping board toward me; it was still early enough that Bella and the boys would just be waking up about now to get ready, giving mama and I a chance to talk freely without anyone else overhearing. All the same, I kept an ear trained toward the back stairs just in case they or Charlie came down earlier than expected. No easier way to give a father a heart attack than telling him a boy he didn't know very well had snuck into his teenaged daughters' room in the middle of the night...oh no, wait, there was an easier way, by telling said father that the boy was a vampire that struggled to decide whether to love his biological daughter or drain her of her blood because it made him go insane with thirst, "He came right over from hunting, said he needed to see Bella. I wish he'd cleaned up a little bit, first, he still had some blood around his mouth...luckily Bella's such a sound sleeper or she would've had a damn heart attack...her and Charlie if she'd screamed and woken up the whole house." 

"Did you get the chance to talk to him?" Mama sounded amused as she peered at me sideways out of the corner of her eye. I nodded, "So, what's his plan of action?" 

"Well, he's conceded that it's impossible for him to stay away from Bella..." I sighed, fixing a loose strand of hair back into my ponytail, "Edward knows there's only two paths forward, but he thinks he can walk that fine line between, be with Bella without giving into his vampiric instincts and keep her human. Until she dies of old age." I elaborated as mama opened her mouth; she stifled a snort, amused at how quickly I'd been able to pick up on what she was thinking before she could speak her thoughts aloud. She and I had always been on the same page. 

"Does Edward really think he'll be able to have a romantic relationship with Bella like that? Does he realize the average human lifespan now?" Mama shook her head, her expression softening, eyes sympathetic as I shrugged, "I know Edward can control himself, but to maintain that for eighty to ninety years is a tall order. Even with how long he's lived, he has urges like the rest of us and he's stuck eternally as a teenager, so his hormones aren't exactly what you would call balanced...well, not anymore, now that he's found someone that's piqued his interest. The only reason he's been able to keep himself together until now is because he hadn't found anyone who drew him in like Bella has. Keeping his control is going to be a lot more difficult now. It happens when you've found that special someone who touches your heart in a way no other can." 

"At least for us..." I murmured, popping a piece of strawberry into my mouth. Mama smiled and nodded, "Yes, mostly for us. It's happened for the rest of the Cullens and for me, at least twice. Although...those urges aren't quite as strong with Charlie -" 

"Okay, mama, I get it, you and my dads have/had urges, can we change the subject now, please?" My ears folded and I frowned, not wanting to think too hard about my parents getting down and dirty; just the mention of it made my skin crawl. Mama giggled, bemused, and put an arm around my waist, drawing me in close so she could kiss my forehead. 

"Oh, my sweet little *okami no koinu, you're so cute." I glared at her out of the corner of my eye, scowling darkly as she squeezed my shoulder, "Okay, okay, no more talk about your fathers and I. But don't forget, one of these days you're going to have to go through all of that, too, once you've found your chosen mate. Those urges will come so fast you won't know what to do with yourself." 

"Yeah, well, that won't be happening anytime soon." I muttered, scraping the pieces of fruit into an empty bowl. "Considering none of the guys here do anything for me...hopefully I'll have better luck when I go to college." I sigh, wanting to get off the subject of my nonexistent love life, "Anyway, enough about me, let's get back to Edward and Bella. Edward wants us to try and help." Mama quirked a brow, as though silently asking how exactly we were supposed to do something like that. I shrug, "Look, I don't know, it's his idea. He just wants us to try to be there when we can to keep him in line." 

"There's only so much we'd be able to do..." Mama shook her head, "Yes, being Bella's stepmother, I could interfere, if need be, but neither you nor I are babysitters, and this isn't the 20th century, they don't need a chaperon. I'm pretty sure Bella would try to kill you if you tried sticking to her like glue, you know how independent she is." 

"Yes, I'm aware, I've known that girl since we were five. She could get stabbed right in front of me and not so much as say 'ow', let alone let me help her take care of the wound." 

"It's not always your job to take care of her, dear." Mama pointed out gently. 

"I'm the eldest kid in the house, what else am I supposed to do? It's the big sister's job to look after her younger siblings." 

"Not for the rest of your life, Dawn." Mama sighed, "I mean, yes, there will be situations in which you can still stand up for your brothers and sister when you're adults, but it isn't realistic for anyone to expect you to set aside your life for them. You're all going to have your own paths to follow: houses, careers, families. Edward has to realize he cannot be with Bella and expect to keep her human until she dies, it's just ludicrous." 

"Well, he could argue that you manage just fine with a human for a mate." I pointed out as mama, and I gathered the food and dishes and brought them to the table. She gave me a faint smile in return, "That's different for Charlie and I. Demons are born, not created, and we don't need blood to survive. We do need to be mindful of our strength with our human partners or family, true, but that's a lot easier when we don't consider humans as a food source." 

I shook my head, suppressing an amused smile, "I do agree it's a bit much for a vampire to be with a human for the rest of their natural life, but I get the feeling things might change. If Bella gets together with Edward and learned the truth about what he is, she might be willing to change to be with him...she would just have to find a way to convince him. Edward can be stubborn, but so can Bella, she'll find a way." 

"That should be quite interesting to watch." Mama giggled; I nodded in agreement, ears inclining back at the familiar creak of the stairs behind us as she looked over her shoulder, "Good morning, Bella. Come and eat breakfast, I made waffles." 

Bella smiled gratefully at mama as she crossed the kitchen, dropping her backpack onto one of the island chairs alongside mine as she slid into the booth next to me. Mama went to grab the milk and orange juice from the fridge as we helped ourselves to the waffles and pieces of fruit in the middle of the table. Charlie and the twins joined us not long afterward and we sat down to eat together. Mama brought up the spring dance looming on the horizon, asking Bella if she was thinking of going; Bella told her of the trip to Seattle she was planning for that day, glancing sideways at her dad for help. I cleared my throat, pointing out dances weren't exactly Bella's thing, looking pointedly at Charlie as I spoke before returning my attention to mama. She nodded in understanding, though her brows did furrow in concern, which I was able to alleviate somewhat when I told her I'd already promised I'd get the day off to go with Bella. Mama smiled, relieved, and said she hoped we had a good time, although she was sure to remind us to be careful while in the city. Bella was quick to promise that we would be fine, and the subject was promptly dropped, which I knew she preferred. 

Charlie left for the police station as per usual, kissing mama goodbye on his way out, which made Henry gag while Geoffrey wrinkled his nose, much to our parents' amusement; I had to stifle a smile behind my cup at their antics, shaking my head as I finished breakfast and brought my dishes to the sink to rinse. Mama had already told us not to worry too much about the dishes, reassuring us that she would be able to handle them while we went on to school. Bella was somewhat reluctant to just leave dishes in the sink since she was used to doing them before we left, but she eventually conceded after mama promised it would be no trouble for her since she had a day of chores ahead of her anyway. 

When we arrived at school, Bella made sure to park as far from Edward's Volvo as the lot would allow, obviously still not over their fight from yesterday. I shook my head as I parked in an empty space next to a Suburban close to his car and got out. 

"You know, if you keep lurking like this, people are going to start thinking you're a stalker." I looked up from my messenger back as I rounded the Suburban, quirking a brow at the vampire hiding on the other side. Edward's eyes were trained on the old, faded shape of my stepsister's truck, just a couple of rows from where we stood, one corner of his lips quirked as though he was smiling, although there was an obviously guilty edge to his eyes, his head cocked to the side as though he was deep in thought. I crossed my arms, allowing my gaze to drift in Bella's direction, "Well, you aren't going to get anywhere just standing here, Edward. Go get her, big fella." I pat his shoulder as I passed him, "And good luck! Bella's stubborn when she wants to be." 

Jasper and Alice were waiting for me on the sidewalk, and we headed across campus together; it would be better for both Edward and Bella if we gave them their space for now, so Edward could try to sort things out without someone looking over his shoulder. There wasn't anything he could do in such a public place, not with this many witnesses around and, with the added benefit of Alice's vision, I would be able to find the pair quickly if the need arose. There was no need for a chaperone, and I wasn't about to become one. No way. 

"Ooh, I just can't wait to become friends with Bella!" Alice squealed, skipping excitedly next to me; Jasper chuckled gently from her other side, "I just wish Edward would let me talk to her..." Her bottom lip pushed out in an attractive pout, pulling a giggle from my lips. 

"I know you're impatient to hang out with Bella, Alice, but just give her and Edward some space for now. They need time to get to know each other first before Bella starts integrating into your family." 

"Not to mention the fact Bella is going to need to get comfortable with the idea of our world." Jasper added, peering at me sideways, "You and your mother are going to need to step up your game if you want Bella to know about all this before she and Edward begin a relationship." 

I sighed and nodded, "I'm aware...I've been leaving my grandfather's book lying out in the open for her to see every day and I'll even 'accidentally' mix it up with her things every other day, but she hasn't given it a second thought...she's been so absorbed with what's been going on with Edward over the last month and a half. I feel like I should just start turning my charm off at home and wearing a shirt that says, 'I'M NOT HUMAN!' just to get her attention." 

"Hmm, well, she already suspects something of you and Edward, so perhaps she'll bring it up today and you can slip in something about your book." Jasper pointed out gently. I flick an ear, frowning quietly to myself in thought, "Something like that could work if Bella was actually open to talking to people about her thoughts and feelings. Honestly, a brick wall is more open than she is...I've been close to Bella since we were kids and she still keeps a lot to herself, no matter how many times I tell her I'm there for her whenever she needs to talk." 

"Stubborn girl." Alice smiled, bemused; I glared at her and pursed my lips, which causes her to have to bite hers' to keep herself from laughing, "Okay, I'm sorry, no joking. But you're smart, Dawn, I know you and your mother will be able to figure something else out." 

"Hm..." I sighed, blowing a couple stray strands of hair out of my face as we neared the English building, "I hope so...anyway, I'll catch up with the two of you later. And remember Alice," I gave the petite vampire a pointed look, "Give Edward and Bella their space and wait until things have settled before you try to get to know Bella yourself. We don't want to overwhelm her." 

"You and Edward are no fun." Alice huffed, waving my words off with a flick of her wrist, although I knew she understood their severity; even if Bella would one day be a part of our world, it still wouldn't do to reveal everything all at once and frighten her...it would be better to introduce things slowly, so she could get acclimated to it, just like mama did for Charlie, "Oh, and Dawn?" I glanced over my shoulder, pausing just outside the door to my first class, "Don't forget about today's biology lab, all right?" 

I gave her a half-hearted smile, inclining my head gratefully for the reminder, even if it wasn't needed; what supernatural creature, especially a vampire, or part vampire, forgot something as dangerous as blood-typing in science? Even growing up on animal blood, I never tempted fate and avoided all labs like that. There was also the fact we didn't know what kind of effect my blood could have on a human, if it was used in transfusions, so...yeah. Blood typing, not exactly what you would call my or the Cullens' thing. 

"Like I could forget something like that." I chuckled humorlessly, "Don't worry, I've already made alternate plans for this afternoon, so our classmates won't have to worry about anything." 

"They never do with you, do they?" A faint smile tugged at the corners of Jasper's lips, pulling another chuckle from my throat, this one easier, more relaxed, "Probably not, but it's better not to chance anything." The couple smiled together and nodded as I turned away from them again, "See you guys at lunch." 

There was a shift in behavior in Bella after her talk with Edward that morning, noticeable to even those that were not close to her; first off, Bella arrived late to our first class, something she never did, even before she'd come to Forks. She had perfect attendance awards that proved as much. Even more odd, she seemed to be off in her own little world, her gaze dazed and gazing off into deep space as she meandered through the door; she was so spaced out, she didn't seem to realize she'd walked into class after Mr. Mason had already begun the lesson until he cleared his throat, thanking her for joining us in a sarcastic and disappointed tone of voice. She immediately seemed to snap back to her senses, if just briefly, her face flushing scarlet as she hurried to her seat in front of me; I quirked a brow, quietly asking what was up, but she avoided eye contact and sank as far down in her seat as it would allow, leaning her head against her hand in an attempt to hide her face. My brows furrowed, ears quirked in interest, but I decided to just let it go for now, knowing it was best not to press Bella on this issue here at school, where there were people around that could try to eavesdrop. It would be better to wait until we were home, where we could have some privacy. For now, I would just need to keep an eye on my stepsister, especially if she was going to be as dazed as she was when she came into class. It wouldn't do for her to fall and split her head open when things were just starting to smooth over between her and Edward. 

Bella's change in behavior had an effect on a couple of her other suiters, including one overtly friendly young man who, until today, had followed her around like a puppy but was now absent from his usual seat beside her. I would say I wasn't surprised, at least, until Bella and I walked out of English and were greeted by Mike and Eric, who were waiting to walk her to her next class. I stayed back to watch as I followed the trio through the drizzle, listening as Mike talked enthusiastically about his beach trip this weekend, which was looking more and more possible now that it seemed there wasn't going to be much rain. Bella feigned interest, trying to sound eager at the prospect of going to the beach, although I knew she was wishing for the hot, sunny beaches of Arizona about now. Well, it was definitely warm enough over there to warrant a beach trip, considering it had over a hundred in comparison to Forks, where we would be lucky if the climate got warm enough for us to be able to go to the beach during the summer, let alone the early spring...the grass and vegetation had barely woken up from hibernation, so how practical was a trip like this one? Eh, whatever, I wasn't one to turn down a chance to be near the ocean or visit the tidepools. If I could knock off work early this weekend, maybe I could talk Jake into bringing along a volleyball or something, so we could have a game between my classmates and some of the reservation kids. 

I did my best to keep track of Bella throughout the rest of the day, going out of my way to seek her out between classes to make sure she made it safely to each building before I headed for my own, making sure to be there to steady her whenever it seemed she was about to fall since she still seemed to be off in her own little world. I was sure Edward was keeping an eye on her the same as I was and although he had a better view into her day than I did, I wanted to be sure she was okay. She wasn't like most people, true, but vampires and other supernatural creatures could still have a lasting effect on humans. Even if Edward hadn't meant for it, his charms had had an effect. It was amusing to watch, especially as Bella, usually not one to be easily swayed, fell under his spell. 

Jessica seemed to have regained some of the bubbly enthusiasm she'd lost yesterday; apparently Mike had caught up with her yesterday after school to accept her invitation to the dance, which had put her in a far better mood than the one she'd had not twenty-four hours earlier. Good, I couldn't help thinking as I absent-mindedly listened to her drone on about her plan to go as a group with Lauren and Angela, who would each be taking Taylor and Ben respectively. At least she could back the hell off Bella now that she had her (on again, off again) 'boyfriend'. Now my stepsister could focus on being with the one she really wanted. Bella, herself, was only half listening as Jessica jabbered on while we walked into the cafeteria together, her gaze drifting toward the Cullens' usual table in the corner. I glanced in that direction, too, inclining an ear when disappointment unfolded over Bella's face at the sight of the four other vampires sitting there without the one she was looking for. 

Alice's eyes darted up to meet mine before flicking away to focus on something across the room; following her line of sight, I spotted Edward sitting at a table by himself, watching the line, or, more specifically, Bella, as she shuffled along after Jessica toward the register, only grabbing a bottle of lemonade along the way. Her eyes were on her shoes, eyebrows pulling together to cause a noticeable crumple in her forehead. 

"That's weird." I hummed, speaking quickly as Jessica finally paused, noticing the change as well, "Edward's sitting alone today, haven't seen him do that before." 

Just as I thought it might, Bella's head snapped up at my words and her eyes followed my gaze to where Edward was sitting; his lips quirked up into a lopsided smile as soon as her eyes met his and he lifted one hand, curling his index finger in an enticing 'come hither' motion. Bella's eyebrows rose in disbelief, and he winked as I bit my lip to hide a smile. 

"Does he mean you?" Jessica demanded, astonished, as she stared at Bella. I rolled my eyes, annoyed, though the slight was not aimed at me. 

"No, he means the Easter Bunny standing behind Bella." I quipped, putting a hand on Bella's back and easing her forward, "Go on, Bells, go get 'im." I gave her a thumbs-up in encouragement when she glanced back at me over her shoulder before she turned back toward Edward, took a deep breath and crossed the cafeteria toward him, nearly tripping twice along the way, even though there was nothing on the floor for her to trip over. I shook my head, amused, and grabbed an apple from the fruit bowl on the counter, a water bottle from the cooler, and nudged Jessica with my shoulder, "Better keep moving before people start complaining we're hold up the line." 

"What is up with those two?" Jessica demanded to know, whirling on me with wide, curious eyes in place of her usual disdain, "I thought you and Edward -?" 

"Now that was an assumption." I pointed out, handing the lunch lady a couple of bucks, "Ever hear someone tell you not to jump to conclusions, hm? That applies here. Just because I hang out with the Cullens, it doesn't mean I'm involved with the only single one out of them." I wandered away from Jessica without giving her a chance to answer, taking a bite of my apple as I approached the Cullen's usual table. Instead of staring off in different directions like usual, their attention was on where their brother was sitting with Bella across the room. I quirked a brow, bemused, taking in their expressions as I sat down. 

Rosalie was pissed; from what I'd heard, Carlisle had hoped turning her into a vampire would provide Edward with a mate of his own since Carlisle already had Esme. Unfortunately, though, things had not worked out that way and Edward had, unintentionally, insulted Rosalie before they'd even had a proper conversation, and their relationship hadn't improved from there. More than likely she was insulted Edward had taken an interest in someone he barely knew where he'd never had an interest in her. Then again, she'd always made everything about herself, which was one of the reasons why she and I didn't get along. 

Emmett looked torn between amused and concerned; he wasn't one to really make assumptions or feel insulted, unlike Rosalie. He kinda balanced his wife out in a way, which was why they made for a good couple. More than likely he was glad to see Edward happy instead of miserable for once. 

Jasper looked the most worried, his arms crossed and eyes intent on the couple, his expression set in a hard mask of concentration, like he was tasting the emotional air around them, watching for turbulence or anything that could indicate danger. 

Alice was positively beaming; she was still obviously impatient for the chance to talk to Bella herself, but she kept her distance, just as I'd suggested...and like Edward had probably warned her to as well. It didn't stop her from bouncing excitedly in her chair like an excited child waiting to open their birthday/Christmas presents, though. 

"How's it looking so far?" I set my water bottle down on the table and glanced at Alice as I ate my apple, allowing my gaze to trail back toward the couple. 

"It looks to be going well," Alice hummed happily, her head cocked, "Although, Bella's friends don't look all too happy." 

"Eh, they'll get over it." I shrugged and glanced in the direction of her original lunch table, "Besides, this doesn't really concern them, this is between Edward and Bella." My gaze drifted back to them as I spoke; Edward looked a bit more comfortable now, an easy, teasing smile on his lips as he stared at Bella, who looked more surprised about this turn of events than anything, although there was a smile lurking around the corners of her lips, like she was secretly happy about it at the same time. The longer they talked, though, the more I could see the effort Edward was putting into being calm, casual, his smile slowly slipping from his lips as his expression turned more serious. But then, his crooked smile was back, like Bella had said something that amused him. I smiled to myself and took a sip of water. 

"Hey Dawn, you got any plans for this afternoon?" Emmett cocked his head at me from across the table, obviously bored with watching the couple now. I look up at him and hum in thought as I lick some apple juice from the corner of my mouth. 

"Hm, well, I thought of heading up to La Push after lunch. With everything that's been going on, I haven't had much of a chance to see Jacob in a while. I have something I wanted to give him, anyway." 

"Those new parts for his car, right?" I nodded, earning a chuckle in return, "Luckily, we had some old parts we didn't need lying around. I'm sure Jacob could put 'em to better use." 

"True. I was able to pick up some things from the junkyard, too, some bigger parts Jake's really been itching to get his hands on, so I'm sure he'll be happy." I finish my apple and toss the core into a nearby trash can, licking the remnants from my hands as I glanced up at the clock hung high on one of the cafeteria walls, "It's still early, but I think I'm gonna head on out to the reservation." I grabbed my messenger bag from the floor and slung the strap over my shoulder, tucking my water bottle inside, "Be sure to keep an eye on those two while I'm gone and call if you need me. I'll come straight back." 

"We will, have fun with your boyfriend, Dawn." Alice hummed, grinning mischievously after me as I started for the door; I turned partially to face the vampire again, making a face at the smallest of the four while the boys chuckled, "Still just a friend!" I shook my head, pivoting on my heel as I reached the cafeteria doors and pushed out into the cool March air. It wasn't raining like usual, although a quick glance up at the blanket of gray that obscured the sky was enough of a reminder to keep me on my toes; the weather here in Forks could be unpredictable when it wanted to be, meaning I would have to make sure I kept my sweatshirt on hand should the clouds overhead decide to open up and make it pour. Thankfully, Jake and I wouldn't have to be out in the rain too much since he had a nice hangout spot behind his house. 

Doing a quick sweep of the area to ensure no one else was around, I sprinted across campus to the student lot and slid into the drivers' seat of my Camery not even thirty seconds after leaving the cafeteria. The engine purred to life, and I tossed my bag onto the passenger seat before pulling out of my spot and turned away from the school. Turning north, I followed the highway like I was headed toward the Cullens' house, but then turned left onto La Push Road just before reaching North Forks Avenue. 

After a quick pitstop at one of the convenience stores, I pulled up in front of the tribal high school and parked outside the student lot to wait as the bell signaling the end of the period sounded. The school's schedule up here wasn't too different from the one at Forks High, meaning Jacob would be getting out about the same time the rest of my classmates would be. At least I would have some time to do homework while I waited for my best friend to finish up for the day, freeing me up to spend more time at his house tonight without having to worry about rushing home to get my assignments done later. 

Cutting off the engine, I popped my headphones in to drown out the rest of the world as I pulled out my binders and pencils; students milled about outside the school, cutting across the lawn or lot to get from one side of the building to the next. A couple of lower classmen spotted my car and stared as they went by until I lifted my head to meet their gazes, at which point they quickly averted their eyes, whispering among themselves. Shaking my head, I returned my attention to the algebra homework, letting everything else fade away as I concentrated on my studies. I finished my homework with about five minutes to spare before the final bell of the day and decided to get out of the car to stretch since I'd been sitting for too long. It would make it easier to spot Jacob and the boys on their way out, too, so I wouldn't have to worry about missing them. 

Someone wolf-whistled as I stretched my arms over my head, arching my back with an appreciative groan and pushing up onto the tips of my toes to stretch out my legs; my ears swiveled toward the noise as I fell back onto my heels and I turned, brushing the bangs back out of my face so I could let my gaze sweep along the row of cars in front of me. 

Several spaces down, sitting in the back of a faded blue pick-up, was a trio of young men staring intently in my direction, cocky grins playing around the corners of their lips as their wicked eyes swept up and down my body. I rolled mine and turned away, pointedly giving them the cold shoulder to discourage them from coming over to talk while I looked out over the school grounds, waiting. It's best not to give them any reason to bother me, least it ruins my good mood. Thankfully, the sound of the bell echoed across the grounds toward us, drowning out their laughter. 

"Hey baby." One of them called out in my direction, but I didn't turn to acknowledge them as more students began to file out of the school, chatting enthusiastically amongst themselves. I scanned the crowd, spotting Jacob, Embry, and Quil as they left through a nearby side door. 

"Hey guys!" I raised a hand to get their attention, beaming when Embry spotted me. He smiled and nudged the other two, pointing in my direction, his brown eyes warm as his smile caused the dimple in his chin to appear while he pushed his long black hair out of his face. Quil raised a hand to return my wave, one corner of his lips turning up into his familiar impish grin. Jacob beamed when he saw me, his bright white teeth a stark contrast against his smooth russet-colored skin while his deep-set hickory brown eyes twinkled. 

"D!" He scooped me up in a bear hug as he and the others met me on the sidewalk, pulling a laugh from my throat as I wrapped my arms loosely around his neck while he spun me around, "Where have you been? We haven't seen you in forever!" 

"You saw me last month, Jake, that wasn't forever ago." I teased, smiling up at him as he set me down; although almost three years my junior, and still sporting a small bit of baby fat around his chin, Jacob was already taller than me, standing at 5'10 at only fifteen years old. Thankfully for me, Embry and Quil hadn't quite hit that growth spurt yet. I fixed a piece of Jacob's raven black hair back into his loose ponytail, spotting the rubber band resting against the nape of his neck, "You need to get better hair ties than rubber bands, Jake." I laughed, shaking my head, "I'll be sure to put that on your Christmas list this year." 

Jacob wrinkled his nose playfully at me and I giggled as I hugged Embry and Quil, too, "And as for where I've been, you know, dealing with the usual stuff at home and school: trying to keep up with my studies and keep the little sibs from getting into trouble. Nothing major." Yeah, totally nothing major about trying to set my stepsister up with a vampire thirsting for her blood, you know, stuff like that was just an everyday thing. They did it all the time in Italy, "Just thought I'd break the monotony of it all and come see you guys." Sure, my life was totally monotonous...not. You know your life was chaotic when you craved boredom. "There was something I wanted to give you, too." I poked Jacob in the chest as I opened the drivers' side door of my Camry and popped the trunk, indicating for him to look inside. His smile brightened even more when he did. 

"Woah, you found a master cylinder for my Volkswagen!" He pulled the long, silver cylinder from my trunk, looking over it with wide, excited eyes. I smile and nod, chuckling as he spots the extra car battery I'd picked up and the new starter, too, "And all the big stuff I needed, awesome!" He turned his beaming smile back on me and reached out to pull me into a tight, one-armed hug, "This is great, thank you so much, Dawn! Where the heck did you find this stuff?" 

"I can't take all the credit." I chuckled, feeling my ears warm under his praise as I hugged him in return, "I had some help from a couple other car enthusiasts." 

"The Cullens?" Jacob laughed, pulling back a bit to look at me; I nodded, "Yup, Rosalie and Emmett really know their stuff when it comes to cars." 

"I thought blondie was supposed to be one of those super-hot, popular girls who was only concerned with her looks." Quil snorted, pulling a faint chuckle from Embry as he leaned against my car, "Wouldn't she be worried about breaking a nail?" 

"While it is true Rosalie cares a great deal about her looks, she does know how to get down and dirty when she needs to...and I don't just mean with her boyfriend." 

Jacob and Quil both let out a howl of laughter while Embry chuckled shyly, a soft blush blooming on his cheeks. I chuckled myself and squeezed Embry's shoulder gently, knowing he wasn't quite as comfortable making dirty jokes as Jacob, Quil, or I were. He had always been the quiet one out of the four of us, which was saying something considering I was the only girl...maybe I'd been spending too much time around guys...ah well, I think I'd prefer that to being a prude. Life is messy, there was no two ways around it, so why get your panties all in a twist over it? 

"Anyway, I managed to clear my schedule to come hang out, so, any of you up for working on the ol' wagen today?" I looked between the three boys enthusiastically. Jacob smiled widely again, answering my question without having to open his mouth; I turned to Quil and Embry, catching the look Quil gave Embry that stopped him before he could answer. 

"As much as we'd love to, D, Em promised to help me with my math homework this week to prepare for this big test on Friday." There was an apologetic edge to Quil's impish smile as he put a hand on Embry's arm, "My mom's been on my case to bring my Algebra grade up and I want to do well. You know how good Em is at Algebra." 

I frown, not wanting to see the two of them go; it'd been hectic since the accident, making it hard for me to be able to get enough time to myself to come see my friends up here, "That sucks...I wish you guys could come hang out." 

"We do, too." Quil nodded his agreement while realization was dawning on Embry's face, making him frown sadly himself, his eyebrows pulling together over the bridge of his nose, "But, hey, you know, maybe we can see about this weekend, huh? I'm sure you could get some time off from work." 

"Maybe..." I paused to think about it when I remembered the beach trip, "Oh, wait, my classmates are planning a trip down to First Beach this weekend and they invited Bella and I to join them. I already asked for that time off, so I'll have a free day on Saturday. I wanted to mention it to see if you three'd be interested in going. It'll be the first time you've seen Bella since we were kids." I looked up at Jacob, who cocked his head thoughtfully before he smiled. 

"It would be great to see her again, although I'm sure she doesn't remember me much." He chuckled, rubbing his neck. I could swear I saw a pink hue touch his cheeks, his smile turning shy, making my heart feel heavy in my chest all of a sudden. I frowned to myself, but tried not to dwell on that feeling, working to keep the smile on my face reassuring, easy, as I touched his shoulder, "You know Forks wasn't always her favorite place, Jake, but I'm sure she'll appreciate seeing a, somewhat, familiar face. I'll be there to reintroduce you guys, too." 

Jacob smiled, grateful, "Thanks, D." 

I squeezed his shoulder, "No problem. But is that something you guys would want to do?" I looked between the three boys again; Jacob chuckled, "Definitely, it sounds fun." Quil's usual grin was back and even Embry smiled at the idea of meeting up at the beach, just like we used to on the weekends, before I'd started working at the shelter. "Great. The kids at school are planning on meeting in the morning at the sporting goods store before we head over to the beach. Just come join us whenever you can, okay? We'll be bringing a lunch along, too, so I'm sure you'll all enjoy that." I smile teasingly at the trio, making each of them laugh, amused, as they each nodded in agreement. 

"We'll be there." Quil promised, smiling, "But, for now, Em and I should get going." He grabbed Embry's arm, tugging him along after him. 

"I could give you guys a ride, so you don't have to walk. Whose house are you going to?" I told Jacob to leave the parts in the trunk for now and ushered for him to get in the passenger seat. Quil and Embry looked back, "We're headed for my place, it's just up the road." Embry smiled reassuringly as I furrowed my brows, ready to protest, "Really, D, we're fine. You and Jake go have fun fixing up the Volkswagen." 

"Not too much fun, though!" Quil threw over his shoulder with a wick grin on his face that made my ears immediately warm. I glared playfully after him as Embry and Jacob chuckled, bemused, "Oh, I'm gonna get you back for that one, Quil! You'd better watch out on Saturday!" 

Quil turned to face me, continuing up the road backward, "I look forward to seeing what you've got, D!" He chortled, pivoting on his heel as Embry continued to chuckle, not two steps behind him. I shook my head after the two and checked the trunk was closed before climbing back into the drivers' seat. Jacob had already buckled himself in by the time I got myself situated and started up the engine. 

"So, how're things going at home?" Jacob asked as I pulled away from the school and turned onto a side road that would take us to his street. I hum, being mindful of the rest of the reservation students making their way home on foot, "Like I said, crazy...but things have calmed down a bit since the accident." 

Jacob frowned, having heard about that from Charlie and his dad; he'd called me a few days after to make sure I was okay, and it took a while before I was able to convince my best friend I was fine. Even now I could sense his worry, his gaze intent on my face, "Dawn, are you sure you're -?" 

"Jacob, for the hundredth time, I'm fine, I wasn't the one hurt. Bella got the worst of it." I turned onto Jacob's street, then down the dirt road that led to his house, which was set back in the woods just like my and the Cullens'. 

"What about that one Cullen kid, the one who was involved in the accident? What was his name?" 

"Edward." I reminded him, following the familiar road with ease, "And he's fine...he didn't really get in the way of the van, just pulled Bella out of danger. Accidentally underestimated his own strength, though, since it made her bump her head, but he saved her life." 

"I thought both you and Edward ended up saving Bella?" Jacob frowned, curious, and I shook my head. 

"No, Edward was the one who saved her, he pulled her out of the way. I was just there to make sure she was okay." I pulled out of the trees and rolled onto the gravel drive out in front of Jacob's house; it was a small, wooden structure with narrow windows, painted in a dull shade of red that made it resemble a miniature barn. I parked alongside the house and popped the trunk again as we got out, while the front door creaked open, and rubber wheelchair wheels rolled across the front porch and down the ramp. 

"I thought I heard someone driving up." I turned at the familiar, warm voice, and smiled at the heavyset man rolling himself toward us, his smile bringing emphasis to the deep wrinkles in his dark russet skin, the crinkles around his black eyes making them sparkle, "It's been a while since you've come to spend time with us, Dawn." 

"Yeah, well, life's been kinda crazy." I crossed to meet Jacob's father at a corner of the house, leaning down to hug him; his thick arms were warm as they wrapped around my middle to return my hug, his scent a combination of old, worn leather, tobacco, and peppermint. It brought back memories of my childhood, when Jacob and I were still small enough to be carried around by our parents. "It's great to see you again, Uncle Billy." 

"Likewise, little sun." Billy chuckled as I pulled back to kiss his wrinkled cheek before I straightened up once more, "We've all missed you here, especially Jacob. Haven't seen the poor boy look so forlorn since those summers you went to visit your grandmother in Connecticut." 

"Hey, I wasn't forlorn, it just wasn't the same around here without her." Jacob huffed, shifting the car parts in his arms so he could shut the trunk. I went to relieve him of his backpack and the car battery, hefting his bag over my shoulder. 

"Whatever you say, son." Billy chuckled, reaching out to take Jacob's backpack from me as we returned to his side, "Judging by those auto parts you're carrying, I'm guessing you two are going to be spending the afternoon in the garage, hm?" Jacob and I nodded, "All right, just don't be out there too late, you still have homework to do, Jake. And I'm sure Charlie and Elizabeth don't want you staying out late either, Dawn." 

"Yeah, they usually don't like when I stay out late on a school night." I hum, making a mental note to text mama while Jacob and I were in the garage, so she wouldn't worry, "Charlie still gives me grief for the last time." 

"Hm mm, you two 'fell asleep'." Billy chuckled, making my ears burn; Jacob's complexion darkened with his own blush as he cleared his throat, "Oh yeah, we were totally fooling around with you sitting in the recliner right next to us, dad." He quipped sarcastically. 

"I wasn't there the entire time." Billy pointed out with a grin, and I cleared my throat as well, wanting to change the subject, "Okay, well, if Jake and I want to get any work done on the Volkswagen today, we'd better get started. Talk to you later, Uncle Billy." 

"Have fun, you two." Billy's chuckle followed us around the back of the house, and I shook my head as we followed a short dirt path to the detached garage, hidden partially from view by a thick band of trees and shrubbery. It wasn't anything too fancy, just a couple of large, reformed tool sheds that had been bolted together with their interior walls knocked out. Inside, the Volkswagen was raised off the ground on a group of cinder blocks, allowing room for Jacob to get underneath. 

"She's looking good so far, Jake." I beamed, setting the battery down on his work bench, which was set up against the wall. He set the master cylinder and car starter down next to the battery and went to get his toolbox from the metal locker in the corner. I walked around the front of the Volkswagen, admiring it from all angles. Yeah, she was definitely looking better than she had when Jake and I had found her in the junk yard. I would just have to see if I could get him to agree to a new paint job once he got her out on the road, "You've been working hard, I see." 

"Well, it's a hobby." Jacob chuckled as he set his toolbox on the bench and joined me in front of the car to pop the hood; there were still holes in the engine where he didn't have working parts, but I was glad to see he'd been able to replace some of the smaller ones, like the spark plugs and belt. "It's not easy finding her parts, but she's comin' along well. You keep contributing the way you have been, I should have her up and running in no time." 

"You get her running by your next birthday, and I'll pay for a new paint job." I grinned; Jacob looked up from checking everything was in its' place and turned to smirk at me, quirking a brow, "You trying to start a wager with me, Swan?" 

"And if I am?" I challenged, propping a hip against the front fender and crossing my arms as I raised my eyebrows teasingly. 

"What would you get if you won, dare I ask?" 

I hummed, pretending to think about it, "Free car maintenance for a year?" Jacob let out a deep, jubilant laugh, the one that comes from deep in your belly. "You've already got free car maintenance for life! I've never charged you, not even for any of your oil changes." 

"Because you're too stubborn to accept any money I try to give you." I stuck my tongue out at him, which made him laugh again, "Kinda hard to charge you anything when you bring the new change of oil yourself." He smiled as he picked up the battery and brought it over to the car. I grabbed the old mechanics rolling stool he kept by his workstation for guests and positioned myself between the car and his toolbox so I could hand him what he needed, "Oh, and let's not forget the fact that you're my best friend." 

"That's bad business practice." I pointed out, pulling another chuckle from Jacob's lips, "All right, when I was talking about the paint job, it was more of a promise than a wager, but if that's how you want it, I've got a deal for you: if you finish this car by your next birthday, I pay for a new paintjob. If you don't, you must accept payment for any work you do on my car from then on. Thirty bucks for every oil change and fifteen bucks for every fifteen minutes of work." 

Jacob peered up at me from under the hood of his car, narrowing his eyes, "Doesn't sound like a fair wager if both outcomes only benefit one party." 

I shrug and grin at him, "My paying you alleviates some of the guilt I feel for your slave labor." 

"You're not going to let this go, are you?" 

"Nope!" I popped the 'p' to emphasis my point while Jacob shook his head and lowered his gaze back to the battery, "Those are my terms, Black, if you want this to be a wager." 

Jacob hummed, thoughtful, and I couldn't help but get drawn in by the quiet sound, soothing in his deep, husky tone. Hearing his voice had a very calming effect on me, especially when I was having a bad day, which was one reason why I enjoyed spending time with Jacob when things were crazy at home or school. Even when I couldn't come up to La Push to see him, it was comforting to be able to call him on the phone, whether to vent about my problems or forget about them for a little while. 

"Twenty bucks for an oil change, five for every thirty minutes of work." Jacob shot back, snapping me out of my reprieve. I narrowed my eyes, ears folding back against my head, "Twenty-five per oil change, ten for every twenty minutes of work." 

Jacob straightened up from under the hood of his Volkswagen to peer at me thoughtfully, leaning against the side of the car for a second before he sighed, "Fine, deal." He held out a hand to shake and I grinned triumphantly as I took it, my skin prickling where it met his, "Deal." We shook on it and Jacob chuckled, amused. 

"You think I'd be used to that stubborn streak of yours' by now." He smiled as he released my hand, leaving a pleasant tingle behind. I continued to grin as I crossed my legs, tail wagging, "I'm almost surprised myself; you've had a lifetime to get used to it and yet you're not." I laughed. 

"Probably because it doesn't come out all that much, except for times like these." Jacob finished putting the battery in and I tossed him a rag to clean his hands before I hopped up to help him bring the cylinder and starter over, along with his refurbished creeper, a flat, padded bench on wheels mechanics laid on when they were working on the underside of a car. I set the creeper down in front of the Volkswagen and Jacob laid back on it, sliding underneath the front fender while I brought the toolbox closer, perching myself on the rolling stool next to him to continue to hand over tools. 

To most, just sitting here handing tools off to a mechanic and watching them work might seem boring, but I found it quite enjoyable. It was Jacob's hobby and I enjoyed being there to help him, especially when he was particularly excited about a project. During times of stress in my life, this was my escape; I loved being here, just hanging out with my best friend, helping him build cars while we talked about anything and everything under the sun. Even though I can't let Jacob know my secret, I felt comfortable, safe here with him, which was easy since he always made me feel welcome, like this was one of my homes away from home. When I had no one else I could talk to, he was there to listen and calm me down, just as I tried to do for him. 

(Jake's such a great guy...) I couldn't help but think as I handed him one of his smaller screwdrivers, watching him work through the breaks in the engine with a faint smile on my lips while I leaned my head on my arms, which were folded on the edge of the hood, (He makes it so easy to be around him...mama says that's what finding a mate is like, that it's easy being around them, comfortable...but...there hasn't been any signs that he's my destined mate, none that I've noticed, anyway...that'd be kind weird...I don't think I'd mind it all that much, though, if this is how it's supposed to be, but...) I frowned, thoughtful, (I wonder...)  

My eyes slipped closed then and I took a couple of minutes to breath in deeply; the overwhelming scent of metal and oil filled my senses, familiar, comforting, underlaid by the scent of faded wood, old paint, and wet earth. I dug deeper, reaching for that warm scent hidden underneath it all; it was musky, but crisp, damped just enough by motor oil and lubricant that I couldn't quite place the name... 

"Dawn?" A warm hand on my shoulder made me jump and my eyes snapped open to meet Jacob's concerned gaze, "You falling asleep on me?" 

I blinked slowly to recollect myself and quickly shook my head, straightening, "No, no, I...I'm sorry, I was just, uh..." I fished for an acceptable lie, ears burning at the idea of telling him I was getting lost in his scent. What was I, some kinda weird stalker or something? "I was just...thinking about Bella." 

"Still not taken to our quaint little town?" Jacob smiled in understanding, reaching out to take another tool from the box before laying back and sliding underneath the Volkswagen once more. I hum quietly to myself, trying to ignore my racing heart as I leaned against the car again, "I think she's getting used to it by now...but I'm more thinking about how things are going for her and Edward." 

"Those two not getting along?" 

"Hm, they weren't before...they had a disagreement after the accident and haven't talked much since, but I think Edward's trying to change that. He's been trying to figure out his feelings for Bella since he met her. I talked to him about it yesterday and he decided to make his move today, or at least try to talk to her." 

"She's got another admirer?" Jacob chuckled faintly and I frowned, sensing the strain behind it, like he was trying to force the sound. I'd known Jacob too long to not know the difference between his genuine laugh and when he was faking it. I'd noticed it before, too, when I'd told him about the way the guys at my school flocked around her, especially during her first couple of weeks, and when Mike and Eric had asked her to the dance. There was an uncomfortable pressure in my chest, like someone was squeezing my heart in a vice and I clenched my fists, nails biting into my palms to alleviate the ache, "How's Bella responding to his advances? I thought you said there wasn't anyone in Forks she was interested in." 

"Hm, there isn't, considering he doesn't really live in the town." I handed him a couple of nuts from his toolbox, the tip of my tail twitching uneasily, "But things seem different when it comes to Edward. She never really showed an interest in Mike or Eric the way she does him. Hell, she's been even more depressed than usual since they haven't been talking." 

"Well, I've heard the Cullens have a certain kinda charm." Jacob slid out from under the Volkswagen once more, wiping his brow on his forearm, the frown on his lips making the vice tighten around my heart, "Not really surprising, though, that family could live off their looks alone and still be sitting pretty." 

"Still sporting that soft spot for Bella, are ya?" I had to work to inflict the teasing edge to my tone, feeling my chest tighten further as I forced a smile onto my lips, "Geeze, you haven't seen her since you were twelve and you're still crushing on my sister." 

Jacob's cheeks darkened with a blush again and he glared at me, "I-I'm not crushing on her, D, I'm concerned for her because she's your sister, that's all. We all used to hang out as kids when she was here for the summer, too." 

"When she wasn't sulking or throwing a fit." I held up my hands as Jacob gave me another look, "Okay, okay, I'm done being a bitch and bashing my sister. But be honest, Jake, do you still have a crush on Bella? It seemed like you did when we were kids, considering you just about fell all over yourself just to get her attention." 

Jacob wouldn't meet my gaze, his eyes on where he has a white-knuckled grip on the old rag in his hands; I sit up straight, rolling away from the car to get closer to him and leaning sideways to try and get a glimpse of his face. When he wouldn't even look up, I reach over to gently hook my finger under his chin, tilting it up until his eyes meet mine. The warm, hickory irises are clouded, distant, like he was lost in his own memories, his mind thousands of miles away. Beneath it, though, there is a certain kind of sparkle, one I recognized, even after being absent for years, a light that made my heart constrict tighter in my chest, almost to the point I stopped breathing; it was the same sparkle I saw light up his eyes whenever he saw or talked about Bella while we were growing up. An uncomfortable prickling sensation joined the tight feeling in my chest, a quick response to that sparkle in his eyes, familiar, yet different at the same time. I swallowed, pushing back the tightness in my throat and the sting at the back of my eyes, deciding I could figure these new feelings out later; I needed to focus on helping my best friend now. Forcing a gentle smile, I cocked my head in what I hoped was a comforting way. 

"Jake, you don't have to be ashamed, you know...I might tease you about it, but there's nothing wrong with you having a crush on Bella." His brow furrowed, but he didn't make a move to speak as I brushed some loose hair out of his face, "I get it, okay? I might rip on her, but Bella's a sweet woman. I can see why you and anyone else would have a crush on her. She's kind and loving, selfless, and, even if she doesn't believe it herself, she's a beautiful young woman. Any single guy would have to be crazy not to like her." One corner of his lips twitched upward in a weak smile, making it easier for me to keep the smile on my face, "Look...it seems like something might start between Edward and Bella." It couldn't be any more obvious unless the two printed that they loved each other on their foreheads, "But, who knows, it might not work out, so you might still have a chance." I added quickly when the smile disappeared once more, "Just...I don't know, maybe try hanging out with her if you two hit it off on Saturday. Even if nothing happens, it's better you have a friendship than nothing at all right?" 

Jacob cocked his head the slightest bit, frowning thoughtfully. I couldn't help but imagine a curious puppy as I watched him and I had to suppress a laugh at the thought as he finally smiled once more, nodding, "You're right, Dawn, it's better to try and fail than to never have tried at all. Even if Bella and I just end up as friends, I can at least say I gave it a shot." 

"There you go." I squeezed Jacob's shoulder gently and his smile eased, expression softening, which made me relax, just a little, "There it is, there's that sweet smile." I reached up to gently pinch his cheeks to make him laugh, feeling my heart lift as the gentle sound escaped his lips. I squealed as I was suddenly pulled off the rolling chair and into his embrace, feeling my ears burn while I wrapped my arms loosely around his shoulders. 

"Thanks so much, Dawn." Jacob squeezed my midriff gently as he nestled his face in my shoulder, "You're the best friend I could ask for." 

That tightness in my chest returned with a vengeance and I was internally glad he couldn't see my face right now...I didn't even want to imagine the expression I must be wearing as I tried to remember how to reel myself in. It took me several tries before I could swallow back the lump in my throat, my arms tightening subconsciously around his shoulders, "Of course, Jake...you know I'm always here for you. After all, what are friends for?" 

I words felt like lead in my mouth and I had to force myself to spit them out. I had never had a hard time saying them before, even when referring to Jacob, so why now? Why was it suddenly so difficult to associate the word 'friend' with him? He'd always been my best friend, he had been since we were babies and I never had a hard time admitting that, to him, to our families, to anyone else, but I had never claimed Jake as anything more than that. He wasn't my boyfriend or my mate, nor was he meant to be...at least, I didn't think he was... 

Was he?