51-55

151Chapter 51

"So how does someone go from liking vanilla ice cream to chocolate ice cream? On second thought, how can you stand ice cream? It smells disgusting." I laugh as Alex wrinkles his nose.

"I don't know. Your taste buds change over time. I just prefer chocolate now." I look at him before putting a spoon full of chocolate ice cream into my mouth. I sighed in satisfaction and smile at seeing Alex's face. "I know that this doesn't appeal to you. Human food."

Alex shakes his head. "It's not the most pleasant smell but I'll just endure it." As promised, I've been spending the whole day with Alex. I grumbled when he woke me up at 6 in the morning. He drove me to Port Angeles where we have been walking around for the day. We were currently walking to the car while I was eating chocolate ice cream. "Do you remember ever eating food?"

"When I was still human?" I nodded my head as I kept eating my ice cream. "No, I don't. I don't remember much from my human life. I'm over 200 years old. It's been a long time since when I last ate anything or had a heart beat."

I looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "Thanks for reminding me your age. You just signified how gross it is that I'm dating an old man."

Alex's laughter reached my ears. I finished my ice cream just as we reached the car. "I can't help that you find me irresistible."

"Did chivalry die with you to?" Alex gave me a smile as he opened the car door for me. I got into the car and before I could blink, Alex was in the driver's seat starting the car. My eyes widened as I looked all around me. "Are you crazy! What if someone saw you?"

"No one saw me. Don't worry." I sighed as I settled in my seat. We then started to head back to the house.

"Thank you for today. I think this is what I needed."

"You're welcome. I think we both needed this. You've been cooped up in the house for too long."

"Well, thankfully it looks like my jail time has officially ended. Carlisle's releasing me on good behavior. The only thing is that he wants someone to stay behind with me when everyone has to go hunt."

"Well I'm glad that you are no longer grounded. We can hangout outside of the house now. You do know why he wants someone to stay with you, correct?"

I nodded. "I don't think it's because he doesn't trust me. He does trust me but I think it's for my safety. There have been extra precautions ever since Riley attacked me." Silence engulphed us.

"It's still hard to believe that somewhere else this is a book series."

"I know. I'm wondering if the multiverse string theory is real."

Alex's head whips over to me. "When did you suddenly get interested in science?"

"I'm not interested in science. I've just done research on the topic. Since I'm here, maybe it does exist."

"That is an intriguing theory." We soon get back to the house where Rosalie is waiting at the door for me.

I smile as I head over to her. "Hi." She engulfs me into a hug.

"You ok? Did you have a nice time." Rosalie has always been protective of me but I think she's basically smothering me. I didn't want to tell her that because part of me wanted her to be close to me.

"I'm fine. We actually had a good time."

"Don't worry Rose. I would never harm her." I turn to Alex with furrowed brows.

"Since when did you start calling her Rose?" Alex has started to get more comfortable with our family.

"Recently unfortunately," grumbled Rosalie. She turned around and walked into the house.

I walk into the house with Alex to find Alice sitting at the table with a computer and a whole bunch of papers out.

"What's this?" Alice looks at me and smiles. She's practically bouncing in her seat.

"Just planning our graduation party. It will be here in three weeks." I try to smile but it comes out as a grimace.

"I don't know Alice. Why do you want us to have a graduation party. All of you have graduated from high school already."

"Well Bella hasn't graduated high school before. You haven't graduated before either, well here anyway." I sigh and let the matter go.

"How many people will be here?" I never liked big crowds.

"I'm inviting the whole graduating class. Some of them might bring friends. Who knows how many will be here." In other words, our house will be packed. I feel Alex's hand rubbing smoothing circles on my back.

"It'll be fine." I sigh and nod. It's only for one night.

It was at that moment that Edward came down the stairs with a sigh. I looked at him curiously. "What's going on?"

"Bella just suggested something that worries me."

I look at him confused. "What did she suggest."

"We need to hunt and I don't want to leave her alone. She suggested that the both of you can stay at La Push for the day."

"What!" I look at him perplexed.

"Absolutely not!" Alex bellowed. Normally I didn't like it when Alex would try to make decisions for me, but I was ok with it this one time.

"Why do I need to go?" I understood that they need to hunt, even Alex needs to, but I would rather stay home alone than go over to the wolves.

"I don't want you to be alone. Especially with Riley and Victoria being after you."

"Then Alex can stay with me."

Edward sighed. "He needs to hunt too Sophie. I don't agree with this but it means protection for you and Bella while we are gone. It will only be for a day."

I look around me and I can't help but to agree. Everyone has dark bags under their eyes and their eyes were pitch black. Alex looked the worst out of everyone and he hasn't been on the vegetarian diet for very long. I sigh. "Fine. But you pick me up as soon as I'm ready to leave."

"No!" I grab Alex's hand and look at him.

"Trust me. I don't like it either, but you need to hunt. You look terrible." I try to smirk to lighten the mood but it turns more into a grimace.

Alex sighs in defeat. "Fine, but I'll be at the line as soon as you call us." I nod.

"When Edward?"

"Tomorrow." I sigh in exasperation.

"Fine, let's just get this over with."

The next day quickly comes. The car was quiet as Edward reached the treaty line. There across from it stood Jacob next to his Rabbit. I let Edward and Bella get out as I turn to Alex. "Promise me to not do anything drastic. Let me know when you come back from hunting and I will meet you at the line."

Alex brushes a piece of my hair behind my ear and gives me a smile. "I will. It's only for today. Shouldn't take more than five or six hours." My eyes widened.

"Where are you going that's going to take six hours?"

"We are going away from Forks. Somewhere that has more bears and mountain lions. It'll be fine." I nod as I give him a small smile.

"Ok." Alex leans in and gives me a kiss on the lips. I smile and bring him closer to me. Alex's hands tighten in my hair as he deepens the kiss. I soon find myself in his lap as my hands tangle in his hair. I feel Alex's hands grip my hips as he lets out a small growl. Alex then breaks away before anything further can happen.

My eyes flutter open as I stare at him. He leans his forehead against mine. "You are going to be the death of me Sophie Cullen." I chuckle as I get out of the car. Bella is already across the line hugging Jacob. I walk to Edward and give him a small hug.

"Bye. I'll see you tonight." Edward smiles at me as he gets in the car with Alex who is already in the passenger seat. I walk over to Jacob just as he lets go of Bella. He gives me a small smile.

"Hey Sophie." I give him a small smile in return. "Well, what do the two of you want to do today?"

"Not cliff jumping," I say immediately. I am never doing that again.

Jacob chuckles. "Ok, noted. We can do anything that you want but we are going to a bonfire tonight."

Jacob took us to his house and we all just hung out. I watched tv while Bella and Jacob talked to each other. I couldn't help but notice how comfortable they were with each other. The past few hours of the day went by quickly. I soon found myself following Jacob and Bella to First Beach. That's were I saw the rest of the pack. I look around and I started to get really uncomfortable. I think living with vampires has made me uneasy around werewolves. I am slightly jealous of Bella, noticing that she's comfortable around them. I sigh and walk my way over to the fire and sit on a log. A disadvantage to being human is that I get cold easily. The heat of the fire felt really good in this moment.

Suddenly, I feel someone sitting down next to me and a plate holding a hot dog is placed in my lap. I'm surprised and look over to see Paul Lahote already stuffing his face with a hot dog. "Oh, thanks Paul." Paul nodded as he kept eating.

"All the food will be gone soon and I saw that you haven't had anything yet." I glanced back at the table that had all of the food. The table held enough food to feed an army, yet almost everything was gone. I keep forgetting how much these guys eat. I pick up the hot dog that Paul gave me and start to slowly eat it. Paul then snorts. "We didn't poison it. You can eat it." I nod my head and then continue to eat. I finish eating and look to see that Paul still have four hot dogs left on his plate. I raised my eyebrows in shock.

"Do you always eat that much? How are you not fat?"

"I burn a lot of calories every day. I'm constantly hungry." He ignores my last question as he continues to eat the rest of his food. Silence engulfs us once he is done eating. I look over towards the horizon and see that the sun is gone. The only lights that we have is the fire and a few lamps placed on the food table. "Have you heard about our stories before? Probably not since you live with the leeches."

"Why do you always have to insult my family Paul?"

"We are mortal enemies. What else am I going to do that will annoy you." I grunt under my breath. Paul smirked answering that he heard it. Stupid werewolf hearing. "Anyway, you are going to hear about the stories. Rather the legends about our tribe."

"Hey vampire girl!" I look up and see Embry rushing over to Bella. I watch as he kisses her cheek and Quil giving her a high five. I get a little pang of jealousy at seeing how comfortable Bella is around everyone. I just watch her as she smiles and laughs. She is so comfortable being over here, while I feel like an outsider.

I shift uncomfortably on the log. That's when Paul puts his arm around my shoulder and scoots me closer to him. I jump a little and look at him perplexed. "Calm down. It's fine for you to be here. We just don't know how to really interact with you. We never would have imagined that a bunch of vampires would have adopted someone that is human." I just nod my head. I could understand that.

I looked up and observed Billy Black. I look to see Sue Clearwater sitting right next to him. I look at an empty space next to her that is supposed to belong to Old Quil. It's hard to imagine that he was gone. I felt like it was partly my fault because he should be alive at this point. I looked at everyone else who were either sitting on a log or sitting on the ground. Everyone looked at Billy, indicating that he was about to talk about the tribes legends.

Everyone sat up straighter as Emily produced a spiral-bound notebook and a pen, looking exactly like a student ready for an important lecture. Billy cleared his throat, and began telling the story in his rich, and deep voice. "The Quileute's have been a small people from the beginning," Billy said. "And we are a small people still, but we have never disappeared. This is because there has always been magic in our blood. First, we were spirit warriors." I kept my eyes on Billy. his voice drew me in and I couldn't look away. I couldn't help but to think about this scene in the Eclipse movie. It was like the movie was playing in my head.

"Our spirit warriors defended our lands from intruders. The other nearby tribes, the Hohs and Makahs, made treaties with the Quileute's. They wanted nothing to do with our magic. Generations passed. Then came the last great Spirit Chief, Taha Aki. He was known for his wisdom and protecting our tribe." I listened as Billy kept talking about their tribes stories. Everything was fascinating and I was enthralled by the story of Taha Aki and Utlapa. "Taha Aki's own sons started to turn into spirit warriors when they reached manhood. The wolves were all different because they were spirit warriors and reflected the man they were inside."

"So that's why Sam is all black," Quil suddenly whispered, grinning. "Black heart, black fur."

Sam glanced at Quil. "And your chocolate fur reflects what? How sweet you are?" I tried not to laugh. I managed to let a smile slip on my face.

Billy ignored their jibes and kept talking. "Many years after Taha Aki gave up his spirit wolf, trouble began in the north. Several young women started disappearing. He sent his sons to investigate and find the culprit. They encountered a sweet scent. So sweet that it burned their noses. They have never come across something like it before. They did not know what creature would leave such a scent, yet they followed it. They came across a creature. Something they have never encountered before. The creature was strong. Our warriors sharp teeth and fire was the only way to destroy the creature. They called it The Cold One, the Blood Drinker, and they were feared that it wasn't alone. That fear came into a reality when his mate came to the Quileute's seeking revenge."

I stare at the fire as Billy keeps talking. Victoria is a lot like the vampire in the story. She's seeking revenge for James being killed. I imagine the scene that he's describing. How the vampire's mate is destroying the village and killing everyone. How all the spirit warriors are being killed in her rage.

"Taha Aki transformed back into his wolf form and charged at the creature. His third wife watched as he fought the woman. She instantly realized that he would soon be overpowered. The third wife ran at the woman and dropped to her knees. She sacrificed herself by plunging a knife into her heart, enough to distract the woman so that Taha Aki could destroy her. She had the courage to sacrifice herself to save her husband and her tribe. Taha Aki's sons had transformed in their anger. Encounters were rare from that time on. Occasionally a blood drinker would come through these lands, but they were taken by surprise, not expecting the wolves. Time passed, and the descendants could no longer transform into wolves. Our magic comes out when the cold ones come around." I didn't miss the flicker of Billy's eyes as they land on me.

The the guys started shifting when we moved to Forks. I just looked at my feet, not wanting to see everyone looking at me. The magic in the air then seemed to die into the embers. Suddenly, it was just a circle of friends. I was brought out of my thoughts when Jared flicked a stone at Quil, and everyone laughed when he jumped. Everyone then went to whispering to each other.

"So. What did you think?" I almost forgot that Paul was sitting next to me.

"It was great. Your legends really intrigued me. It was brave of the third wife to sacrifice herself." Paul cracked a smile.

"Yep. Pretty much saved our tribe." I smiled and then released a yawn. Paul chuckled. "I better start taking you to the line. It's getting late." I picked up my phone to look at the time. I was instantly alarmed.

"Pretty late! It's almost midnight. Alex is probably freaking out." I instantly started texting Alex. I unlock my phone and start to text Alex.

"Calm down Sophie. Jacob already called Edward. He's taking her towards the line now." I looked over at Jacob to see him caring a sleeping Bella. I guess she fell asleep. I sigh and put my phone away. I stood up with Paul and started to follow him. I made sure to thank Emily, Sam, and Billy for having me. I was soon engulphed in the dark following Jacob and walking next to Paul. It was mostly quiet between the two of us.

Paul let out a cough. "So you and the bloodsucker..."

"Paul.." I started. It was none of his business on what I did with my life.

"Sorry. I just don't like it."

"You don't have to like it Paul, but I honestly don't care on what your opinion is. This is my life. Why do you even care? I'm not your imprint. I'm not your responsibility. I'm a human living with the enemy according to you."

Paul let out a growl but I ignored it. "I don't know why that I care. I just do. I view you as a sister. A sister that I never wanted. I'm so glad that we aren't imprints." Paul let out a dry chuckle.

"Agreed," I replied to him.

"I hope that I never imprint. Being tied down to one person." I looked at Paul perplexed. I knew that he was a player but this was just disgusting.

"Paul."

"I don't mean it like that. I don't want to be stuck with someone. I don't want any attachments. I feel that imprinting is a burden." Tell that to Jacob's sister Rachel when you see her. It was still hard to believe that Paul imprints on Rachel.

We soon get to the line and I see Alex leaning against Edward's car. He stands up straighter when he sees me. I smile and look over at Paul. "Bye Paul."

"Bye, Soph. I'll see you later." I nod and ran over the line and jumped into Alex's outstretched arms.

I giggled as Alex peppered my face with kisses. "You are officially not allowed to do that ever again. I couldn't stand being away from you." I smiled and nodded at Alex. "Did you at least have a good time?"

I smiled and nodded. I let out another yawn. Alex chuckled and walked me to the car. "Come on, let's get you home."SEATTLE TERRORIZED BY SLAYINGS

It's been less than a decade since the city of Seattle was the hunting ground for the most prolific serial killer in US History. Gary Ridgway, the Green River Killer, was convicted of the murders of 48 women. Seattle must now face the terrifying possibility that a new serial killer is on the loose.

The police aren't calling the recent homicides and disappearances the work of a serial killer. Instead, they are leaning toward the theory that gang activity is involved. There is no pattern in the choice of victims, which is supporting this theory.

The selection seems to be random. The victims are racially diverse and the age range is 15-years old to 67-years old. The remains of victims are being burned and the bones are crushed. There are no fingerprints left on the bodies. There is only one conclusion: something hideous is stalking Seattle.

I sigh and put down the paper. I couldn't handle reading any more of this. I noticed that Carlisle brought a newspaper home, which he didn't do often. The headline on the front page caught my attention which led me to read it. "Everything ok Sophie?" I jumped at the voice and looked at Jasper who was watching me.

"Sorry. I didn't realize that you were standing there. Have you seen this?" I hand the paper in his direction. He walks over and looks over the article. His eyebrows scrunch together and a frown deepens on his lips.

"We knew it was getting worse, but I didn't realize it was this bad. We're going to have to do something quickly."

I shake my head in frustration. "I know, but I feel like its too late to go to Seattle. Graduation is next week. Not to mention that we will be outnumbered. It's a death wish to go there now."

Jasper nods. "We will just have to wait then."

"Let's go to school Sophie." I look at Edward and groan.

"I can't wait until graduation."

Edward cracks a smile. "You do realize that you will continue going to school once you are turned."

I grimace at him. "Don't remind me."

As always, school was uneventful. Just boring classes. The usual. Talking to Bella was the only interesting thing that has happened so far. "So, I'm going back over to see Jake. Why don't you come?" Bella asks. I sigh and look at her.

"I don't know. I feel that I'm intruding on everyone." Bella sighs at my response.

"Your not. Everyone likes you. I want you there. Please Sophie." I sigh in defeat.

"Fine. When are we leaving."

Bella's face is engulphed into a smile. "Right after school. Jake's coming to pick us up." I smile and give her a small wave before heading to my last class of the day, which happens to be Chemistry.

The minutes in chemistry goes by at a snails pace which leads me to continue zoning out during the whole period. I'm soon out of my seat as soon as the bell rings. I soon find Bella standing by Edward's Volvo with him. Great. Hopefully he's not mad.

"It'll be fine. I'll have Sophie with me."

"Just be careful," says Edward.

"I will," replies Bella.

"She'll be fine Eddie. I'll be with her to keep the wolves at bay." Edward grimaces at me while Alice laughs.

It was at that moment when Jacob drove into the school parking lot in his rabbit. I smile at him as he stops in front of me and Bella.

"Be safe," Edward tells me.

"Always." I give him and Alice one last smile before hopping into the backseat of Jacob's car while Bella sits in the passenger seat. I sigh the farther we drive away from Forks "Thank you for this."

Bella laughs. "Anytime. It's nice spending time with you."

"Two humans spending time together in a world of vampires and werewolves." Our chatter and laughter engulf each other. "Thanks Jacob."

Jacob smile at me through his mirror. "No problem. How's everything going?"

I smile in appreciation. "Good, everything is good. How have you been?"

He shrugs as he continues to drive. "Ok, just patrolling more often." I nod. Victoria. He quickly looks at Bella. "Anyway, how long can you stay."

"As long as possible," she replies. Jacob breaks out into a grin. I don't say anything. I would rather be home with Alex but I wanted to spend time with Bella. Even if that meant coming into the wolves den.

Jacob takes his car to First Beach. We get out and start to walk along the shore line. I stay behind Bella and Jacob as they continue to talk to each other.

"I thought I smelled the stench of leeches." I groan in aggravation at the appearance of an unwanted visitor. Why can't he just leave me alone.

"What are you doing here Paul?" He walks over to me and has his signature smirk on his face.

"Heard Bella was coming over and wanted to see if you were tagging along. I'm bored. I needed someone to annoy."

I try to put on my best glare face. "Mission accomplished," I reply and then notice that Bella and Jacob are walking away. I let out a sigh and start to follow after them.

"So, how are you doing," asks Paul.

A small smile appears on my lips. "Easy Paul. It almost sounds as if you care."

He snorts. "Not really. Just want to make sure you are ok."

"I'm fine. Ready for school to be over."

"Ahh, graduation. Are you ready for it?"

"Yes, I can't wait for it to be over."

"When is it?"

We continue to follow after Jacob and Bella. "Next Friday."

"Congratulations." I smile.

"Thanks. Oh, Alice is throwing a graduation party. You can come if you would like." Paul just gives me a grunt in response. I'll take that as a maybe. Silence soon engulfs us as we continue to walk along the shore line of First Beach. I step on a rock and close my eyes and smile into the heat of the sun.

"Will you miss this?" I open my eyes to see Paul staring at me.

"Miss what?"

"The heat of the sun. Having a heart beat." I sigh.

"Yes. There are some things that I will miss, but that's not happening for a while."

"It's not? I thought..." I raise my eyebrows at Paul.

"You thought what? That I would be turned as soon as possible? That's Bella. That's not me. I'm wanting to wait another year or so. Two tops."

"So you still have some time being just you."

I smile at Paul. "Essentially, yes." I'm about to ask Paul a question when I am interrupted by shouting.

Me and Paul both turn in time to see Bella pulling her lips away from Jacob in alarm. Before I can say anything, she raises her right arm and punches him in the face with her fist. Oh no. Bella starts screaming in pain. "Bella!" I run over to her and look at her hand. It's already starting to bruise. It was definitely broken.

"Ow. Ow," Bella continues to scream.

Jacob looks worried. "Crap. Are you alright?" He starts to reach down towards Bella.

"Hey! Back off." I place myself in front of Bella and push Jacob away from us. Jacob's eyes become dark and he starts to growl at me.

"Let me look at her Sophie." His whole body starts to tremble. I know I should back away from him, but I can't. I'm beyond angry at this point.

"No. You've done enough. She broke her hand because you decided to kiss her against her wishes!" Jacob's body trembles faster and he looks as if he's about to burst into a wolf. Fear soon engulfs me because I'm too close to him.

"Dude, stop!" Paul darts over to Jacob and drags him away from me. "Calm down. Your going to hurt someone."

I turn back to Bella and see her cradling her hand. "Come on. I'm taking you home."

"With what? I'm sorry ok. Let me take the both of you to Bella's house." I turn and look at Jacob incredulously.

"You've got to be joking. No way!"

"No thank you. I would rather walk," replies Bella. I take Bella in my arms and start to walk in the direction of the treaty line.

"Will the both of you just stop! Just let me take you." I pause and look at Bella as she stares at Jacob.

"Fine. I can't wait to see what Edward does to you! I hope he snaps your neck, you pushy, obnoxious, moronic DOG!" Shit. Edward's going to be livid. I wordlessly take Bella to Jacob's car and help her sit down. Being careful to not touch her hand. I climb into the car just as Paul joins us.

"Don't start. I might need to help Jacob." I sigh in defeat. I sit in silence as Jacob drives us back to Bella's house. I only stare as Bella as she calls Edward on her cell phone. I can't hear Edward, but I know he's furious. Bella soon hangs up.

"Edward's going to meet us at my house. Then he's going to take us so that I can see Carlisle." I nod.

"Ok." Jacob soon makes it to Bella's house. Edward's already here waiting for us. We all get out of Jacob's car in time for Edward to speed over to Jacob.

"If you ever put your hands on her again!" Crap. Edward's pissed.

"She doesn't know what she wants!"

"Guys, don't do this!" Bella rushes towards them and tries to get Edward to let go of Jacob.

I just watch as the scene unfolds. Paul stands in front of me just in case things start to escalate. Paul acting as my protector.

"If you ever kiss her again, I will break your jaw for her."

"What if she wants me to?" argues Jacob.

"Then wait for her to say the words."

"Guys stop this! Jacob just go ok."

"Fine, she will."

"No I won't, now go home Jacob," hisses Bella.

"Hey, hey, hey. Guys. Back it up." I'm so focused on the situation that I didn't realize that Charlie came outside. "Everyone, take a breather." Jacob took a step back away from Edward. "Now, will someone tell me what's going on."

No one says anything. We all just stare each other. Jacob's the one that breaks the silence. "I kissed Bella." Charlie looks at him stunned. "And she broke her hand by punching my face. A complete misunderstanding." I scoff under my breath but I remain quiet.

Edward pauses before looking at Bella. "Let's go see Carlisle so that he can look at your hand." He then turns to me. "Come on Sophie. Let's go home." I nod before walking towards Edward.

I look at Paul and squeeze his hand. "Thanks Paul. Bye." He gives me a small smile as he watches us getting into Edward's car and driving off towards my house.

stare off into the trees that fly by as Edward drives towards our house. "How do you feel?" Edward asks Bella as he continues to drive.

"Irritated," responds Bella. That's an understatement. I would be angry if I was in her shoes.

Edward chuckles. "I meant your hand."

"I've had worse," replies Bella while shrugging. Like what Bella?

"How are you feeling Sophie?" I raise my eyebrows at Edward.

"Considering how I witnessed Bella punching Jacob after he kissed her; I'm fantastic Edward." I reply sarcastically.

Edward chuckles. Edward soon arrives at our house and drives around to the garage. I'm greeted to the sight of Rosalie underneath Emmett's jeep while he sits down to hand her tools. Emmett, always acting as the jack.

I hop out and make my way over to them. "Needing to fix this thing again Rosie?" Rosalie starts laughing underneath Emmett's car.

"Just tuning up loose ends. Nothing major."

"Hey! My jeep is in perfect condition," argues Emmett.

"Uh huh, ok Emmett. Keep telling yourself that," I reply while laughing. Emmett then notices Bella cradling her hand as she walks over to us.

"Fall down again, Bella?" he says with a grin.

Bella glares at Emmett fiercely. "No Emmett. I punched a werewolf in the face."

Emmett starts laughing. "Badass."

Rosalie suddenly appears beside me. "Jasper's going to win the bet Emmett." Emmett's smile is soon wiped off of his face.

That causes Bella to look shocked. "What bet?"

"Let's get you to Carlisle," interjects Edward as he tries to steer Bella inside.

"No, what bet?"

"Thanks Rosalie," grumbles Edward. I give Bella a little grin.

"Emmett and Jasper like to gamble. Their betting on how many times you will slip up in the first year."

Bella's eyes widen in realization. "They have a bet on how many people I will kill in my first year?" Bella grimaces.

"Yep. Rosie over here is thinking that your temper will turn the odds in Jasper's favor. He's betting high. It'll make him feel better if you have a hard time adjusting also. He's tired of being the weakest link."

"Oh, of course," mutters Bella.

I laugh as I follow Edward and Bella into the house. "Don't worry, they are betting on me too. Jasper is actually betting higher on me. He thinks I'll slaughter a whole village with my temper."

"Would I love to see that. Seeing you mad turns me on," says Alex who appears out of nowhere. I almost want to choke in surprise.

Edward gives Alex a withering glare. "Careful Alex," growls Edward. Great, big protective brother coming out.

"Seriously? Can you not talk about that?" I did not want Alex to be murdered by my family. Alex grins at me and kisses my head.

"Sorry, can't help it," he replies. I sigh in defeat. "Come on, let Carlisle tend to Bella," says Alex. I nod my head as he takes my hand in his.

"Fine. Bye Bella. Make sure not to hit anymore werewolves." I let out a laugh as Alex drags me away from everyone and leads us outside into the backyard.

"Where are we going?" I give him a small grin.

"Well, we haven't been on a date in a while and I thought this was a perfect opportunity to kidnap you."

My whole face lights up. "Kidnap me? Is it kidnapping if I give you permission to take me on this date."

He shrugs as he looks down at me. "Not really, but I find it more interesting." I give him a smile in return. I squeal as he lifts me into his arms. "Come on. It's a far walk to where we are going. It'll be faster if I ran to it."

I nod and close my eyes as he starts running into the wind blows into my hair as Alex runs in an unknown direction. I'm not sure where we are going, but to spend time alone with him sends my heart racing.

All too soon, he stops running. "Don't open your eyes yet." I keep my eyes shut as he sets my feet onto the ground. I let him lead me to wherever he's taking me. All too soon, he stops. "Ok, you can open your eyes now."

I slowly open my eyes and gasp at the sight before me. The first thing that I notice are the flowers that litter all over the grass. Lavender, daises, and other flowers are situated all around. They create a border around a ledge that leads to a small river. A waterfall calmly pours water into the river, and I watch as the water travels down the stream. The view is breathtaking. I smile and turn to see Alex standing into the moonlight. The moon emits a glow that just adds to the beauty of the meadow.

"I thought you would like this place. It's peaceful," says Alex.

"It's beautiful. Thank you." He smiles as he comes closer to me. I let him cradle my face with his hands and close my eyes in bliss. I slowly open them and lean forward to place a kiss on his lips. He starts to deepen the kiss and stops so that I can come up for air.

He smiles and chuckles. "You are going to be the death of me, Sophie Cullen." I giggle and give him a quick peck on the lips. I step back and sit down on the grass, gazing at the flowers that surround us. Alex sits next to me and I curl up against him.

I lie against him as he twirls a strand of my hair in his fingers. "Seems like you had an interesting day. Got to witness a human attacking a werewolf."

I smile "It was interesting. I missed you though." Alex takes that moment to kiss my head.

"As did I Sophie."

I let out a sigh and sit up straight to look at him. I needed to talk to him about the future; our future. What would happen in the next coming years? Breaking Dawn would be coming soon and I have yet to decide if I should let Bella and Edward know about the events that will unfold.

"So, we haven't really talked about the future. I don't know when I'll be turned. I'm going to be honest. I'm worried about the future Alex. Graduation is around the corner and Bella want's to be turned right after. Victoria is coming and that's a fight coming for us also. I'm worried everything is going to implode. I want to know what your thoughts are on me being turned. I don't want to be like you until a couple of years from now. I want to travel and experience my human life before it changes"

Alex looks at me and ponders. "You already know my thoughts on you being turned. I want to spend the rest of eternity with you Sophie. I'll keep you human as long as you want to be. Just tell me when you are ready and I'll be the one to change you."

"What if I'm ready now?"

Alex gives me a look. "Now, that is a lie. You just told me that you want to wait; but if you were, I would change you."

I smile at him. "Ok. You make everything sound so easy." I stare at the man sitting before me and can't help but to ponder why me? Was I always meant to have someone in this world? A world that shouldn't exist. I look at him before pulling him closer to me. He doesn't object as my lips slam onto his. I greedily kiss him. I wanted to show him how much he means to me. I start to show him as much passion as I can. I didn't know how to say this, but I was in love with this man. A vampire that shouldn't exist. This vampire who I couldn't stand at first; has melted my heart.

I continue to hungrily kiss him when Alex suddenly lets out a growl. I'm soon spun around on my back while he hovers over me. I close my eyes in bliss and let out a pant as he trails kisses up my neck. In the blink of an eye, he has me pinned against a tree. I wrap my arms and legs around his neck and waist. I slam my lips back onto his and continue making out with him. The only thought on my mind was of him and how much I wanted him. I start to tug at his shirt when he breaks away from me.

I'm panting from the lack of air and watch as he smiles at me before lowering me back onto my feet. A flush of embarrassment overcomes me. "I'm sorry," I say.

He chuckles and kisses my forehead. "Don't apologize. Trust me, I enjoyed it too. Just, not tonight. I want your first time to be special, and not in the woods against a tree." I let out a laugh. "Besides, your family is probably waiting for us to come back." I nod.

"Are you against it?"

"Against what?"

"Us..um...while I'm still human." I'm instantly flushed with embarrassment. I couldn't let the words escape from my mouth.

Realization dawns on his face chuckles and kisses my forehead again. "No, I'm not against it. If you want to while you are still human, then we can. Just tell me when." I smile and nod. "I do want you to be sure, though. If it's really what you want. If I'm really what you want."

I stare at him in confusion. "What are you talking about? Of course I want you. I want to be with you. Why wouldn't I?"

"Sophie, we wouldn't be able to have children together."

I give him a sad smile in return. He could give me children, but not in my case.

"You don't need to worry about that. I can't have kids anyway."

"What?"

I smile sadly at him. "The car accident I was in as a kid caused some damages. The internal bleeding and being stabbed with glass damaged some things... Basically, Carlisle told me it's impossible for me to ever carry a child." I watch his reaction as realization dawns on him.

"Sophie, I'm sorry."

I shake my head. "Don't be. I've come to terms with it. I honestly didn't know if I even wanted children." Alex gives me a chaste kiss on the lips.

"I love you Sophie, and just know that I will always be here for you." Alex is the angel that was needed. That I would always need.

"I love you Alex." We both laugh as he spins me around.

"Come on. I'll take you back home." He sweeps me off of my feet yet again. I close my eyes in complete bliss as he takes me back home.Alice. You can't be serious." I throw the garment in my hand onto my bed.

"Deadly Sophie. It looks amazing on you!" I give her a blazing look.

"Can't I just go in jeans and a t-shirt?"

Alice soon has a look of horror. "No, absolutely not! You are wearing that dress to graduation!"

"Alice, no one is going to even see me wearing it." I look at the dress in question. She has given me a green dress that goes to my thighs. There are intricate details in black that complement the green dress. It's pretty but it's certainly not my style. I'm not the dress type of person.

"Well, you need to get over it. You are wearing it and that's final. Go ahead and get changed. I'm going over to help Bella with her outfit. I'll see you at the school. Oh, and don't forget to wear the heels" I groan in annoyance, I hated wearing heels. I give her a small grin and watch as she races out of my room in a flash.

I sigh in defeat and pick up the dress in question. It is a pretty dress. I finally give in after much thought and put the dress on. Looking into the mirror, I can tell why Alice bought it for me. The green of the dress brings my green eyes out more. My eyes almost look like they glowing. I quickly brush out my dark brown hair and put a little bit of makeup on. I smile at my reflection. I looked pretty descent.

Glancing into my reflection one last time; I go into my closet and put on a pair of black heels to match the design. I would rather wear flats but Alice would have my head.

Sighing one last time, I walk out of my room and down the stairs to where my family is waiting for me.

"Oh, look at you." I smile as Esme comes and hugs me. "I am so proud of you sweet heart."

I smile at her. "Thanks mom." Esme beams at me.

"Alice really has out done herself this time." I look at Rosalie as she comes over to me.

I laugh. "Well, you know Alice." I then feel arms snake around my waist before I'm pulled against a muscular torso. I giggle and look up at the culprit.

"I'm proud of you Sophie." Alex beams at me and then proceeds to kiss my forehead.

"Come on. We should go, we don't want to be late for graduation. Edward will meet us there with Bella. Alice is probably there already," explains Carlisle.

I nod and follow Alex to the garage. He leads me to a blue convertible car. I stare at it in confusion. "Is that a Bentley Continental GTC?" I stare at the car in amazement. It beautiful. It is an almost sky blue car with tan leather seats. It has to be one of the most expensive cars I have ever seen.

"Yep and its all yours," states Alex proudly. My eyes widen in astonishment.

"Wait, this is mine?" Alex and my whole family laugh in reply.

"Yes, its your graduation present," responds Esme. I squeal in glee and launch myself at her.

"Thank, thank you!" I hug her tightly in glee. "I love it." Her laughter and hug gives me joy.

"You are welcome sweetie. Come on. You don't want to be late." I nod and turn to catch the car keys in my hand that Alex just threw at me.

"Come on. You can drive us to school." I squeal in delight before running to my new car as Alex gets into the passenger seat. I put the car into drive and head over towards the school. I feel Alex's hand on my leg. "Slow down. You just go it and your about to wreck it." I laugh in response but slow down. "Are you excited?"

"About this car? Yes!" I laugh in delight. Alex chuckles at my response.

"Well that too, but are you excited to be graduating."

"Yes. Finally done with high school."

"For now," responds Alex.

I grumble in annoyance. "Don't remind me."

"Don't worry about that right now. That won't happen for awhile. On a lighter note. Alice's party." I still wasn't on board with this party. The last party we had was Bella's birthday party and we all know how that went.

"Oh yes, Alice's infamous party. What about it?"

"What would you say to ditching it?" I pull into the school parking lot and park my car in an open space.

I look at Alex. "Skip Alice's party? Have you gone mad. She'll kill us both if we don't go."

I stare at the man before me as he tucks a piece of hair behind my ear. "Fine. We can go for an hour and then we will leave."

"Why would we leave?" Alex just grins.

"I want to take you somewhere. A graduation present from me, kind of."

I sigh in content as I hop out of my new car. "Fine, but your telling Alice." I grab my graduation robe and make my way towards the gym where everyone is waiting to get in line. I soon spot Edward with Bella. "Oh, there they are." I look up at Alex.

"I'll see you after the ceremony." He gives me a kiss before leaving to go sit inside the gym with the rest of my family. A small smile is etched onto my face as I make my way over to Bella.

"Can we get this show on the road. I want leave this prison." Edward just laughs.

"Always so overdramatic."

I gasp in surprise. "Well brother dearest, overdramatic is my middle name." Bella and Edward laugh along with me.

"Cullen's up front." I look over to see Mr. Varner directing students to get in line.

I look at Bella with a smile. "See you on the other side of freedom Bells." I laugh as Edward rolls his eyes. He gently takes my hand and leads me towards the front where the C's are.

"Can you ever be normal," he says.

"Edward Anthony Mason Cullen, you wound me. That would be boring and uneventful." I just get an eyeroll in response. Though, a small smile is etched onto his face. I look around and notice that Alice is missing once we get into the line. "Where's Alice?"

"She's on her way. Had to get a couple of things for the party tonight," replies Edward.

"Oh joy," I grumble. I look down at the ugly mustard yellow robes we have to wear. I quickly put it on. "Why is it that you and Alice can pull off these ugly robes while I look like a mustard packet?" Edward couldn't contain his bark of laughter.

"Never change Sophie." Mr. Varner takes that moment to call us into procession. It was time for graduation to begin. We soon enter the gym and head to our assigned seats, where Alice happened to be.

"About time you showed up." Alice just flashes me a smile in response.

Graduation started to fly by. It was as if someone had pushed the fast forward button. Eric started his valedictorian speech about "new beginnings" and how we are leaving things behind. My new beginning was the future that lay before me. I would leave my humanity behind in a couple of years so that I could be with my family. I made a decision that I will turn into a vampire, but I was going to wait. I wasn't in a rush, unlike Bella who wanted to be changed now. With Eric's speed talking and nervousness, the words and phrases started running together so they didn't make sense anymore.

Principal Green then started calling names one after another. It was soon our turn to walk on the stage. I watched as Alice practically dance across the stage to get her diploma. Edward soon followed behind. Only they could pull off these ugly yellow robes. It was soon mine turn. I smiled as I heard the cheers from my family as I accepted my diploma. Green eyes met rich topaz eyes that used to be ruby red. I couldn't help but to admire his beauty as I walked back to my seat.

It was soon Bella's turn. You could hear the cheers coming from Charlie. I couldn't help but to clap along with Edward. The rest of the commencement went by in a flash. Before I knew it, graduation had ended and we were now graduates. I followed students out of the gymnasium into the warm air. I then followed Edward to see Bella as Alice walked away to find Jasper.

"Congratulations," whispered Edward into Bella's ear as he wrapped his arm around her waist. I smiled at them as he kissed her forehead.

Bella looked into the crowd, no doubt looking for Alice.

"Alice ran out as soon as she got her diploma," I interjected.

Bella looked confused. "How did you-"

I snort. "Please, it doesn't take a genius to know who you are looking for." I give her a mischievous grin and pulled her into a hug. "Congratulations Bella."

"Thanks Sophie," mumbles Bella.

An arm soon wraps around my waist. I smile up at the culprit. "If the two of you don't mind, I'm going to steal my girlfriend." I giggle in response.

"Bye Bella. I'll see the two of you tonight." Edward hugs me quickly before Alex swings me away and leads me to my family.

Rosalie is the first one to hug me. "Congrats Sophie. You finally graduated." I laugh.

"Thanks Rosalie." I'm grabbed away from Rosalie and find myself in Emmett's arms.

"Congratulations baby sister." I hang on for dear life as Emmett spins us around.

"Emmett, put her down," grumbles Alex.

As soon as he places my feet safely on the ground, Jasper pulls me into a hug. My anxiousness soon evaporates and I'm calm and content.

"Thanks Jasper."

I'm finally pulled into Carlisle's arms. "We are so proud of you."

I smile at my family. It was still hard to believe that I was adopted into the Cullen family. Standing before me was a family that loved me. They continued to accept me after learning the truth about the books. "Thanks dad."

I feel a hand intertwine with mine. "Come on. I'll take you back to the house. Alice is already there, setting up for the party." I wave goodbye to my family before following Alex to my new car.

I stare at Alex in wonder as he drives us back to the house. He rests his hand on my leg and we stay in a comfortable silence. Smiling at what the future holds ahead for me. What the future holds for the both of us.

Well, graduation is done. I'm wanting to get to Breaking Dawn soon. I don't want to rush anything though. I want to continue to flesh out Sophie's story in Eclipse. There are still things I want to include. What would you like to see in Sophie's story? Thank you again for reading this. Until next time!