EPOV
The drive home was uneventful and gave me time to think. This was the first time I'd been separated from Isabella since I'd left her. My body did not shut down as badly as before, though I knew the hole in my chest would not heal until she was in my arms again. I could only hope that Jasper and Emmett could keep Bella from feeling the same despair. At least she had to keep moving to find our daughter; all I have here is hunting and playing babysitter for the remaining Volturi.
Marcus had some interesting thoughts he had shouted at me when we were in the basement. His laughter had echoed through the hall as he privately told me, “The seeds have been sown, Edward, the seeds have been sown.”
A discussion was in order once I returned home; first Jasper growling at me and then Marcus's cryptic thoughts. All I want is my family pieced back together and some semblance of happiness returned. Home first, then I can search out the answers I need to all my questions. I turned up the volume on Debussy and let the Volvo's engine purr as I sped towards home.
I must have lost myself completely in the music as I was soon shutting off the car in the garage and I couldn't remember most of the drive, my internal auto pilot having taken over for most of the drive as my brain was lost in thoughts of Bella. Six days... Alice said six days... I can make it that long, I think. The front door had a note in Esme's scrawl saying they were out on a hunt, with Marcus, and to join them when I returned. I figured that it wouldn't hurt even though it had just been a few hours- I hadn't had much as I was too caught up in watching Bella satiate her thirst. The monster reared its head at the thought of blood so I shrugged out of my jacket and started running before leaping the river into the woods. I picked up my parents' scents along with that of Marcus and trailed them to their hunt. The three were seated on a log, all looking glutted on blood. I nodded to them and took off on the trail of a mountain lion that had escaped them earlier. The mountain lion folded within my arms, she'd seen me attack here before and knew that escape was futile. I drank from her before placing the carcass beneath a boulder- cleaning up as I was taught or “doing the dishes,” as Emmett was known for saying before Esme scolded him for being crass. I wiped the dirt from my hands and flitted through the trees back to where Carlisle, Esme, and Marcus awaited me. Their thoughts were reaching to me before I could see them through the trees.
I'm glad he went hunting, I don't like to see my son hurting. All my boys are hurting. Esme's thoughts were maternal; her mothering goes beyond any of her physical needs. Good, they're off to bring back Nessie so we can get some semblance of normalcy again.
Carlisle's thoughts reached out to me at the same time. Edward! Welcome home. I know this is less than pleasant being separated from her, but you do see my point. We need you here to help with Marcus. He said that you and he have to discuss some things in private. I tilted my head down towards my feet before tilting to see Marcus- a move my family has long understood to be a nod as I took part in their silent conversation before ending it.
It was Marcus's thoughts that gained my interest. You finally let your pet away. You know it will never be the same again. One already is falling in love with her, and the other won't be far behind. If you fight it, the family will fall apart.
“The prodigal son returns. Edward, I'm glad you're joining us!” Marcus's voice scratched through the air to me, nails on chalkboard was too kind a simile for the sound. “I assumed your brooding nature would return and my dear friends Esme and Carlisle were worried you would not even leave the airport despite your need here as my guardian.” Do my thoughts trouble you, young one? I've seen many relationships in my years and none rival what you and your Isabella have. Her devotion to you is complete and unchanging- nothing, no one, could ever take her from you. But you will have to share her heart with your brothers if the Cullens are to remain more than a coven. Wouldn't it be better to share her with two you know won't steal her away in the night; two men you feel honored to share the word “brother” with, two men that would worship her as you do?
“Enough! I've heard enough!” The words were out before I could think, a growl growing in my chest. “She's mine. I waiting a century for her. This discussion is over.” Esme was on her feet, headed my direction when the tree I was touching shattered beneath my hand.
“Edward, what is it? What did he say? I'm assuming this is about Bella. Of course she's yours. She'll be home in under a week, you can hold it together until then. Bella would never leave you, she's just away to get your daughter- yours and her daughter- the daughter she risked everything for to bring into this world. You are her reason to exist, keep your mind in one piece for her.” Her thoughts echoed her words, a few changes here and there as she edited for me.
“It will be alright, Mom. You're right.” I knew calling her mom would calm her down, it always does. “It's just a few days and in comparison to the years before she was in my life, six days are a good trade for the eternity awaiting us. Our guest,” as I cringed at the word, “has some ideas I'm not fond of and do not wish to repeat at the moment. When Carlisle doesn't need me I want to work on some blue prints for you to add on a room to the cottage. Bella and I were talking before, after this trip, Nessie and Jake are not going to tolerate the 20 miles or so it is to La Push and now that the treaty is effectively null and void in relation to land due to the Pack's promise to support any imprinting, we think Jacob should at least have a room in our home for when he's here late.” We think? Or just Bella thought and you're agreeing to it? Esme's eyebrow arched at me while I was talking. “Okay, yes. Bella thought.. Well, demanded rather. I think she was coming up with things to keep me busy while she's gone and more to worry about than what trouble she'll find that far away from me.”
I took off through the woods to our cabin to get some changes of clothing while at the house and start getting ideas for the addition. Some sketches, and a shower later, I found myself in my bedroom, holding a note from Alice that was taped inside the wardrobe box I had pulled out to pack for my stay in my old room.
Edward- I see you've found another letter. I know Bella's gone to get Renesmee- please toss all the clothing she buys before she can hang it in your closet. I cringed having to watch her buy it, I don't want to see it in the closets too. Don't miss me too much brother. Don't let Jazzy go, although I think he's tied to the family in ways neither of you will understand for a while yet. Marcus is right, it will help. I've seen you being happy again- all of you. At least listen to him and see what happens, don't force the cards to lie as you wish or you will reopen old wounds and rub salt in new ones. Just trust me. She loves you but the ability to love is not finite. Sharing her love does not make her love you less, she'll love you more for letting her love them. Yes them. I know it will not be easy but you'll see, it will all work out in the end, Eddie. You left your cellphone at the main house, you'd best head back and get it. She'll be calling you in seventy minutes when they land and are on a layover. Tell Bella I'm sorry I switched out the batteries but there's no need to thank me, I know the game was fun. Emmett is keeping them in check and they are having one last snack before leaving the plane. They'll be fine. Oh and when the plane lands bringing them all home, tell them to hold their breath and get them to the car quickly. The coffee cart...
Your annoying little sister, Alice
PS. Don't punch the wall, it didn't do anything to you.
I laughed in spite of myself. Of course she'd seen me crumbling her note and taking out my frustration on the bedroom wall. It seems that my psychic of a sister is going to play matchmaker to spite me. Sharing Bella with Jasper and Emmett? Are they crazy? I finally have my mate and they want me to share?
Alice wouldn't ask me if she didn't find it important. Jasper is all that we have of Alice. She wants us to take care of him, keep him here in the family. What future awaits him otherwise? And Emmett? He couldn't really think of his “little sister” like that could he? Of course he could. They're men. Even I could feel the urges to mate even while I spurned all female advances in my direction.
If this is the only way to hold the family together, could I do it? Would I do it? I can't talk to my parents- they have enough to worry about. If we join with Eleazar and Carmen as well as Kate and Garrett, we would likely be the force to reckon with now that the Volturi are gone. The largest grouping of talents in one family. If we lose my brothers, we would only be a coven, no longer a family despite Esme's efforts.
Could I let them have a part of her that only I have had? Could I deal with their thoughts? Would she even agree to it? If I asked her to, she would. If I told Isabella it was the only way to keep the family together, she'd do it. But would she want to? Do I want to know if she wants to? I have six days to think it through. Perhaps a talk with Marcus is in order. My world is about to change again and I am not in control this time.
I don't want her to get hurt. I'd leave with her and Nessie before it came to that. Dammit Alice, meddling from the other side. Damn meddling pixie.
I tossed one of Bella's recently worn sweaters into the box so that I could keep her scent on me during her absence. Perhaps smelling the sweater while speaking on the phone will take the ache away.
BPOV
The batteries in my iPod died before we had been in the sky an hour. Emmett decided to provide our entertainment by making fun of Edward. Jasper decided I wasn't loosening up enough and turned it into a game of manipulating Bella's emotions. I went from laughing to tears in 30 seconds flat. Emmett and I then decided a game of resisting Jasper could be fun. He'd warn us of the emotion and give us five seconds to prepare before the onslaught. I managed to hold off of happiness by thinking of the cliche dead puppies, but that only worked for a moment before I saw Emmett's goofy grin and I fell over my feet laughing.
Jasper then told us “lust,” and I started thinking of my grandparents having sex and it must have been working; I felt nothing. I'm guessing that laughing in Jasper's face was not the most mature reaction, but Emmett seemed amused. Jasper however got the last laugh, or maybe it was Emmett, anyone but me.
“Jasper, I think you're losing your touch.” I set a hand on his shoulder while giggling at his pout. Then I felt the tingle. “Oh my...”
“Yes, Bella?” His lips twisted up into a smirk as his eyes took on a gleam I haven't seen in weeks. His hand settled onto my hip while he flooded the cabin with lust. I could feel my arousal rising and knew that both of them could smell me.
“Is something the matter, little sister?” His hand tightened on my hip as the waves of sex poured through me. My eyes rolled back in my head, and if I hadn't been sure of his hand on my hip and the other on my arm, and that my ears registered Emmett still seated five feet away, I would have thought I was being touched. The pressure was building on my clit as if being stroked. I opened my eyes to see him smiling and the waves ebbed and flowed, crashing over me until I could feel my body clenching, ready for a mind blowing orgasm, moans and pants coming from my lips, when it stopped. I crumpled to my knees, my body denied what it needed, with no release coming for a week.
“Jasper!” I hissed between my teeth when I could get enough air in my lungs to speak at all.
“Do you need something, Bella? I didn't touch you. Did I, Emmett?” We both turned to look at a rather shocked Emmett. If a vampire could flush, he would have been; his jaw hung slack, his eyes glazed over, and his pants hid nothing of his reaction to the scene and emotions. “Emmett? Was that too cruel? I guess Edward did tell me to take care of her.” His face blanked to show no emotion as he looked into my eyes, topaz much like my beloved's meeting my now rusty orange eyes, as he unleashed his gift quickly, a scream leaving my lips as my back arched, my orgasm rushing through me. I collapsed back against the ground and could hear Emmett swearing, no doubt needing to use the restroom to clean himself up if he was getting as strong a dose of Jasper's talent. Jasper's smile returned as he offered me a hand up. I pulled him down on top of me instead. He looked surprised as I flipped us over so I was sitting across his stomach.
“If you do that ever again without my permission, I will see that you are separated from your little friend here and don't find it anytime soon.” Jasper's only response was to grab my hips and push me back so that I could feel his hardened cock against me.
“You weren't the only one affected, Bella. You enjoyed it, Emm enjoyed it, and I enjoyed it. No one was hurt here. You're embarrassed that anyone could evoke that from you but Edward. It's just sex, a release. Lighten up. Stop it. Right now. I can feel your guilt. This game was Alice's idea. She knew what it would turn into. She figured you'd need it. Based on Emmett's panic in the bathroom right now, I'm pretty sure I'm the only one who didn't get off here.” Jasper bucked his hips against me as he spoke. The sensation against my already blood filled genitals elicited another moan from deep in my throat as I slid against him. “I can feel your desire. I won't take you, not without Edward's permission, although we both want it. You're curious of what it would feel like if I am touching you. And I assure you, I'm not little.”
I couldn't speak. Feeling his erection through the denim pressing against me had my own arousal building again and I knew he wouldn't take me that far. The guilt of what Edward would think, of my own thoughts about my brother-in-law consumed me. But beyond that was the lust for the gorgeous scar covered blond boy beneath me who wanted me. Lust rolled off us both and he hissed as I rubbed against him. My hips rocked, trying to get as close as we could allow, while his gift played us both. I pressed harder into him until his breathing became erratic and the jolt of his hips lifted him and I clear from the ground. I traced my hands up from his arms where they had been resting to his chest, pressing slightly for leverage as my hips mimicked the acts I'd performed with Edward but at an angle he'd never allowed. Jasper didn't find me too fragile as he thrust his jean clad crotch against me, desperate for the friction I was providing. I thought of every sexual act I could, and dwelled in the lust and want that filled me. Jasper groaned and his hips ground against me as his fingers pulled at the pockets of my pants, twisting in the fabric, tearing it slightly before letting go.
His own need sated, Jasper's face slid back into the blank depression he'd had since Alice's death. “I'm sorry, Bella. I don't know what came over me. The hormones just took over and I lost control of everything.” I climbed into his lap and put an arm around him.
“It'll be okay; we'll figure things out. We can talk about this later.” It was then that Emmett stepped out from the front of the plane and reentered our cabin area. I kissed Jasper's cheek before settling into the seat next to him.
“Ummm. Yeah. The pilot dude says that we'll be landing in a half hour. So if you can not do that thing again with making me want to fuck Bella silly at least until we're off a moving object two thousand feet above the ground, the pilots would probably appreciate it.” He stepped over to the fridge and pulled out the last bag Carlisle had sent. “Last call at the bar. Let Bartender Emmett satisfy your thirst.”
Jasper let out a tentative smile and exhaled his held breath as I cracked up laughing at the change the three of us had made in the past few hours in the air. We spent the next half hour giggling about how this year was a great vintage for mountain lion but not so much on bear. I made Emmett promise to take me bear hunting when we got home, to which he readily agreed but said we'd leave Jasper behind as he doesn't want to “hump an irate grizzly because my brother thought it would be funny.”
I walked between the boys, each with an arm around my waist and our carry-ons in arm, while the stewardess we'd banished to the cockpit assured us our luggage was already transferred to the next jet. Other passengers in the terminal looked at us strangely, our long pants, long sleeves and sunglasses worn indoors in Mexico. We quickly made our way to our next plane's terminal and snagged seats away from the windows for our layover. Emmett went off to find more batteries for my iPod and Jasper played with the emotions of people waiting. Emmett returned with an entire bag of batteries, a selection of magazines, and some snacks- for keeping up appearances- while a group of teen girls on their holiday break sitting across from us were swooning as he passed them. When he sat next to me the girls audibly sighed, one so much as groaning and muttering “what's so special about her,” which had both guys laughing. I excused myself to go call Edward and let him know we were to the airport safely.
“Bella?” He picked up on the first ring as if he'd been holding the phone waiting.
“Yes, love. We're in Mexico City; all is safe. Our next plane is here and will be boarding in a little while. I miss you”
“I miss you more than words can express. Are the boys behaving?”
“Behaving? Like always Edward. You know how they are.” I hoped I'd covered my shock. He can't read minds that far can he? But hearing his voice made the ache in my chest stop. “I'm not leaving again, love. It hurts too badly to be parted from you.”
“And I from you, my love. Things are interesting here. I found another letter from Alice. She left me, or rather us, some things to think about and discuss when you're safely home in my arms. My Bella, these days are too long”
“What sort of things did Alice write of?” Curiosity piqued my attention; it seemed that Alice had been up to something she was allowing to play out after her demise.
“Just things that are better left for when you're home. She and Marcus are on the same page for several things that I'm not sure about how I feel yet, but if she had visions of them happening I don't see where I, or we, can stop them despite any intentions otherwise. Enough of this, for now. Enjoy your trip the best you can, get to Renesmee, tell her a thousand times over how much her daddy loves her, and then bring her home so we can be a family again. I am supposed to tell you, from Alice, that she's sorry about the batteries and that she knew the game would be fun. What does that mean? What game?”
“Oh that.” Quick thinking time Bella “My iPod batteries died shortly into the flight so Jasper took it onto himself to entertain us with a game of Resist the Emotions, Airplane style.” I would not be telling him about my near joining of the Mile High Club. Good. “In the end, Jasper won; it was nice seeing him happy again even for a few moments.”
“Thanks for playing along, love. I'm sure you all needed some time to forget. Perhaps play another round later, give him an outlet and give the three of you a good dose of humor for the trip.”
An outlet, right.
“I should get back to them, our plane should begin boarding soon love. I love you, Edward.”
“I love you, my Bella. Be safe, my little danger magnet. Until our next call, love. My heart is with you; keep it safe.”
He closed his phone without letting me respond. I returned to my seat between the boys, earning more glares from the school girls and their giggles. For once I was thankful Edward wasn't with us. I don't know if I could control my response to seeing girls fawning over my husband. Jasper arched an eyebrow at me so I'm guessing he picked up some odd responses from me. As he assimilated the jealousy his lips twitched like he was trying to stop a smile. He then blanketed us all in calm before putting his arm across my shoulders.
“What do you think you're doing?”
“Giving the girls a show. Trust me, it will be enjoyable. Lean back into me. Emm, grab her feet.” I found myself being pulled up across their laps as Emmett slid into my chair. Jasper started to comb his fingers through my hair, fanning it over his legs before starting to rub my temples. He then slid off his glasses and looked over at the girls, unleashing the full dazzle. The collective sigh was hard to ignore and I had to fight to keep from laughing. Emmett had started a rather relaxing foot and leg massage when our flight was called. Jas stood, pulling me with him so that I was on my feet smoothly. Emmett began flexing, showing off his muscular build and making the girls delay getting in the boarding queue until we were past. Even I had to admit he has an impressive form. He's not my Edward, but both of my brothers are definitely gorgeous. Then the perfect revenge for earlier came to mind.
“Oh, Jasper.” I slid my glasses up on top of my head like a headband. I turned his face to mine and did my best to mimic what Edward's always done to me, widening my eyes, smiling up at him. When his own eyes widened and breathing became labored, I knew I'd done it right. So I thought of what we'd done earlier until I felt the familiar ache between my legs start up. His left hand clamped down on my shoulder while his right slid my glasses back into place before tracing his finger over my lower lip.
“I'd stop that if you don't want a repeat performance in the middle of first class. Edward was right, you are a dangerous creature.” I laughed at how shaken he was and skipped off to the queue with my ticket and boarding pass.
“Bro, you started something on the plane and I don't know if Eddiekins will be happy when we get home, with any of us. I mean, I miss Rose more than anything, but man I'd tap that in a minute if I could.”
“Me too, Emmett. Me too.” I looked over at my brothers, knowing that I'd be blushing from both embarrassment and a little bit of indignation over their discussion of me as if I couldn't hear them. I sighed and tapped my foot while they came over with the bags.
Our seats in first class were comfortable, not as nice as the couches in the jet, but nice none the less. The boys and I sat together, making me thankful to no longer have human needs as the stewardesses completely ignored me to ask Emmett and Jasper if they needed anything and to assure them that anything they wanted, anything at all, would be obtained immediately. It annoyed me more than it should have, but then I guess being a good sister to Alice and Rose I didn't like seeing my brothers flirted with when their mates were so recently gone.
I was most definitely not jealous.
The flight itself was uneventful- we sat listening to music, occasionally visiting, and making the random visit to the bathroom to appear normal. Luckily for Emmett and me, Jasper was pretending to be asleep and did not continue the previous game. I am still confused over what happened, well not what happened but the reasoning behind it and what it means from here. I'm married to their brother, he's the love of my existence, my soul mate, they are my brothers and we're all in mourning for their lost wives. Having them think of me in that way- as someone desirable- is a mindtrip. I've always been plain human Bella. And then I found Edward and he thought I was beautiful. Then he saved my life after Nessie was born, making me one of them, making me as beautiful as they are. Now this.
Edward once told me that vampires don't change quickly, but I think we may have changed on that plane. Something is different. I feel a love beyond familial for them, maybe it's just lust.
Oh god! I can't believe I did that with Jasper. Even fully clothed, it was too far. I hope that Edward can forgive me. If he doesn't, I don't know what I'll do. I can't leave Renesmee, but I cannot exist without Edward at my side. He's my other half but now it is like the piece of our puzzle has gotten larger and made room for others within it. What if we could share? Would he share me? If the situation was reversed, could I share him? Is this what Alice wanted for Jasper? Could I ever live up to what Rose and Alice were like in bed? They had a human lifetime together, more even, and I'm just 18 and have only been with Edward.
“Can you please stop it? You're driving me insane. Confusion, love, anger, hapiness, love, lust- lots of lust, more love, confusion, despair, jealousy.. Can't you just pick one feeling and stay there?” Jasper's voice came out as a low hiss, too quick for any one without our sensitive ears to hear.
“I'm sorry but most of them are your fault.” I turned away and set my head against the window, turning up my speakers to drown out any further conversation. I felt childish, as if I'd turned and stuck my tongue out at him, but I just couldn't deal with this now. It's too dangerous if I get upset, I didn't want to risk our trip if bloodlust came over me. The burn was still as strong as the very first day but I am able to ignore it, lock it away, breathe shallowly until the danger is past. It still requires part of my brain focusing on my human family, remembering that this scent I'm picking up is human, not food. Every time I feel the burn of venom on my throat, the consuming fire, I know that Edward loves me. He fought a desire for my blood stronger than I feel now because he loved me more than he wanted my blood. My thoughts turned to Renesmee and holding her in my arms once again. She'd be taller now, probably thinned out a bit, although the way Jacob eats, she just as likely could be putting on weight too- trying to keep up with him.
My thoughts lost on my beautiful daughter, the remainder of the flight went quickly as I went over every memory of Renesmee. The landing gear withdrawing from its storage space shook me from wandering in my own mind. Jasper grabbed my arm and pulled me from the plane as soon as the doors were open, Emmett behind and to the side. Jasper sensed my confusion and alarm and said “Come on, let's get our bags and go to the hotel before the sun comes out. We have a short window according to Alice. Let's not screw up already.” He slid his arm down to my lower back, the touch firm and guiding yet intimate; had blood still flowed in my veins the blush would be creeping down my neck at this point. His chuckle heightened my reaction and I sidestepped away to walk with Emmett, not knowing if I should like the feelings I had.
“Emmett, could you just carry me through here? The scent is getting to me when people come too close. Please, big brother?” I tilted my head down while looking up, letting the sunglasses slide down a little so he could see my eyes. He picked me up into his arms and slung me over his shoulder while I laughed. Emmett slapped me on my ass for laughing so I started smacking him. Jasper seemed a little upset at our antics, which had Emmett making faces. His childlike nature is so refreshing at times.
We made it to the baggage claim, picked up our suitcases and headed out to the shuttles. The temperature would have been oppressive had I been human, I could feel the humidity pressing on us and smell the salt on the breeze from the ocean. And then I smelled it.. The faint remnant of Jake and Renesmee. My silent heart swelled in my chest and a single tear slid down my cheek. I scrubbed at the venom with my shirt cuff to keep it from burning again- the skin just now fully healed from the last ones to fall. “They've been here. I smell them.”
Jasper spoke in hurried Portuguese with a bus driver, finding us one that would take us near our hotel. We were bordering the Tijuca Forest as closely as possible, hunting be our first goal tonight. As we exited the shuttle, we decided it would be best to play the honeymoon card as we had the suite waiting for us. Edward hadn't changed our reservations despite the change in travelers. Emmett picked me up into his arms and carried me in his arms while our “translator and tour guide” helped check us in. I had some rudimentary knowledge of Spanish but no where near Jasper's fluency, but then he'd had to deal with so many armies from this area during his war fighting at Maria's side. Emmett just seemed amused to be holding me and being allowed to cop a feel of my ass while I squirmed in his arms. Jasper procured our key and led us to the stairs up to our room. The hotel was open to the breezes and I longed to lay out in the sunshine to soak up the rays I'd missed living in Forks but not here of all places. Perhaps our next home would have a safe place to enjoy the sun.
Emmett tossed me onto the bed, my laughter ringing through room. Jasper dropped our bags with a huff, “I'm glad someone's amused at this.”
I couldn't let him stay upset. “Oh Jasper, lighten up. You can carry me next if it'll help.” I giggled at the shock on his face. “I'm going to go shower and get changed. Hunt tonight?”
The water washed away the smells of all the humans that had come close to us. I slipped into the terrycloth hotel robe before going to my suitcase. Opening it I saw that each day had two if not three outfits already labeled and on hangers. Alice. For now she had a pair of black yoga pants with a ballet top in charcoal waiting for me. I slid them on and then let the boys figure out who go the next shower. I called Edward while Jasper was in the shower and Emmett was getting dressed in the front room. I sprawled out on the bed while listening to the smooth velvet tones I missed already.
Emmett started singing “Edward and Bella sitting in a tree,” only stopping when I picked up the lamp, ready to throw it at his head. “What is with the hitting? All the women folk in this family want to hit me.” Edward's clear laughter echoed through the phone and he told me to go hunt, another profession of love and this time I closed my phone first.
At dusk we slipped from the back patio of the hotel down the path to the forest, passing beneath the one hundred and twenty feet tall statue of Jesus. Emmett looked around before scaling the statue to sit on Jesus' shoulder. “Look, I'm one with the man. You want salvation, talk to me, baby.” Jasper and I lost it, laughing until we sat on the ground, rocking with hysterics. Then a new scent hit us and we saw a golden orange flash through the trees- several of them. Emmett jumped down, the ground dented where he landed, and took off after the creatures. Jasper and I stayed on the path, shadowing where Emmett loped in the woods. He came out holding two furry creatures, one in each hand. “Evil Demons! I found Evil Demons.”
Jasper and I looked at what he held, golden lion tamarins, annoying and cute, but not evil nor demons.
“The movie said they're demons. Nicole Kidman had one and it sure was evil.”
It dawned on me what he was talking about it. The Golden Compass. Mrs. Coulter's Daemon. “Emmett, big brother, I love you but you really need to start reading. It's daemon.. D. A.E.M.O.N. Not demon like an evil spirit. Besides- it was just a movie.” His goofy grin was infectious and I started smiling as he tossed one to each of us, a quick snack before the real hunt.
A/N: The golden lion tamarins are an endangered species; their numbers are no longer found in all of the rain forests of their former homeland.
The drive home was uneventful and gave me time to think. This was the first time I'd been separated from Isabella since I'd left her. My body did not shut down as badly as before, though I knew the hole in my chest would not heal until she was in my arms again. I could only hope that Jasper and Emmett could keep Bella from feeling the same despair. At least she had to keep moving to find our daughter; all I have here is hunting and playing babysitter for the remaining Volturi.
Marcus had some interesting thoughts he had shouted at me when we were in the basement. His laughter had echoed through the hall as he privately told me, “The seeds have been sown, Edward, the seeds have been sown.”
A discussion was in order once I returned home; first Jasper growling at me and then Marcus's cryptic thoughts. All I want is my family pieced back together and some semblance of happiness returned. Home first, then I can search out the answers I need to all my questions. I turned up the volume on Debussy and let the Volvo's engine purr as I sped towards home.
I must have lost myself completely in the music as I was soon shutting off the car in the garage and I couldn't remember most of the drive, my internal auto pilot having taken over for most of the drive as my brain was lost in thoughts of Bella. Six days... Alice said six days... I can make it that long, I think. The front door had a note in Esme's scrawl saying they were out on a hunt, with Marcus, and to join them when I returned. I figured that it wouldn't hurt even though it had just been a few hours- I hadn't had much as I was too caught up in watching Bella satiate her thirst. The monster reared its head at the thought of blood so I shrugged out of my jacket and started running before leaping the river into the woods. I picked up my parents' scents along with that of Marcus and trailed them to their hunt. The three were seated on a log, all looking glutted on blood. I nodded to them and took off on the trail of a mountain lion that had escaped them earlier. The mountain lion folded within my arms, she'd seen me attack here before and knew that escape was futile. I drank from her before placing the carcass beneath a boulder- cleaning up as I was taught or “doing the dishes,” as Emmett was known for saying before Esme scolded him for being crass. I wiped the dirt from my hands and flitted through the trees back to where Carlisle, Esme, and Marcus awaited me. Their thoughts were reaching to me before I could see them through the trees.
I'm glad he went hunting, I don't like to see my son hurting. All my boys are hurting. Esme's thoughts were maternal; her mothering goes beyond any of her physical needs. Good, they're off to bring back Nessie so we can get some semblance of normalcy again.
Carlisle's thoughts reached out to me at the same time. Edward! Welcome home. I know this is less than pleasant being separated from her, but you do see my point. We need you here to help with Marcus. He said that you and he have to discuss some things in private. I tilted my head down towards my feet before tilting to see Marcus- a move my family has long understood to be a nod as I took part in their silent conversation before ending it.
It was Marcus's thoughts that gained my interest. You finally let your pet away. You know it will never be the same again. One already is falling in love with her, and the other won't be far behind. If you fight it, the family will fall apart.
“The prodigal son returns. Edward, I'm glad you're joining us!” Marcus's voice scratched through the air to me, nails on chalkboard was too kind a simile for the sound. “I assumed your brooding nature would return and my dear friends Esme and Carlisle were worried you would not even leave the airport despite your need here as my guardian.” Do my thoughts trouble you, young one? I've seen many relationships in my years and none rival what you and your Isabella have. Her devotion to you is complete and unchanging- nothing, no one, could ever take her from you. But you will have to share her heart with your brothers if the Cullens are to remain more than a coven. Wouldn't it be better to share her with two you know won't steal her away in the night; two men you feel honored to share the word “brother” with, two men that would worship her as you do?
“Enough! I've heard enough!” The words were out before I could think, a growl growing in my chest. “She's mine. I waiting a century for her. This discussion is over.” Esme was on her feet, headed my direction when the tree I was touching shattered beneath my hand.
“Edward, what is it? What did he say? I'm assuming this is about Bella. Of course she's yours. She'll be home in under a week, you can hold it together until then. Bella would never leave you, she's just away to get your daughter- yours and her daughter- the daughter she risked everything for to bring into this world. You are her reason to exist, keep your mind in one piece for her.” Her thoughts echoed her words, a few changes here and there as she edited for me.
“It will be alright, Mom. You're right.” I knew calling her mom would calm her down, it always does. “It's just a few days and in comparison to the years before she was in my life, six days are a good trade for the eternity awaiting us. Our guest,” as I cringed at the word, “has some ideas I'm not fond of and do not wish to repeat at the moment. When Carlisle doesn't need me I want to work on some blue prints for you to add on a room to the cottage. Bella and I were talking before, after this trip, Nessie and Jake are not going to tolerate the 20 miles or so it is to La Push and now that the treaty is effectively null and void in relation to land due to the Pack's promise to support any imprinting, we think Jacob should at least have a room in our home for when he's here late.” We think? Or just Bella thought and you're agreeing to it? Esme's eyebrow arched at me while I was talking. “Okay, yes. Bella thought.. Well, demanded rather. I think she was coming up with things to keep me busy while she's gone and more to worry about than what trouble she'll find that far away from me.”
I took off through the woods to our cabin to get some changes of clothing while at the house and start getting ideas for the addition. Some sketches, and a shower later, I found myself in my bedroom, holding a note from Alice that was taped inside the wardrobe box I had pulled out to pack for my stay in my old room.
Edward- I see you've found another letter. I know Bella's gone to get Renesmee- please toss all the clothing she buys before she can hang it in your closet. I cringed having to watch her buy it, I don't want to see it in the closets too. Don't miss me too much brother. Don't let Jazzy go, although I think he's tied to the family in ways neither of you will understand for a while yet. Marcus is right, it will help. I've seen you being happy again- all of you. At least listen to him and see what happens, don't force the cards to lie as you wish or you will reopen old wounds and rub salt in new ones. Just trust me. She loves you but the ability to love is not finite. Sharing her love does not make her love you less, she'll love you more for letting her love them. Yes them. I know it will not be easy but you'll see, it will all work out in the end, Eddie. You left your cellphone at the main house, you'd best head back and get it. She'll be calling you in seventy minutes when they land and are on a layover. Tell Bella I'm sorry I switched out the batteries but there's no need to thank me, I know the game was fun. Emmett is keeping them in check and they are having one last snack before leaving the plane. They'll be fine. Oh and when the plane lands bringing them all home, tell them to hold their breath and get them to the car quickly. The coffee cart...
Your annoying little sister, Alice
PS. Don't punch the wall, it didn't do anything to you.
I laughed in spite of myself. Of course she'd seen me crumbling her note and taking out my frustration on the bedroom wall. It seems that my psychic of a sister is going to play matchmaker to spite me. Sharing Bella with Jasper and Emmett? Are they crazy? I finally have my mate and they want me to share?
Alice wouldn't ask me if she didn't find it important. Jasper is all that we have of Alice. She wants us to take care of him, keep him here in the family. What future awaits him otherwise? And Emmett? He couldn't really think of his “little sister” like that could he? Of course he could. They're men. Even I could feel the urges to mate even while I spurned all female advances in my direction.
If this is the only way to hold the family together, could I do it? Would I do it? I can't talk to my parents- they have enough to worry about. If we join with Eleazar and Carmen as well as Kate and Garrett, we would likely be the force to reckon with now that the Volturi are gone. The largest grouping of talents in one family. If we lose my brothers, we would only be a coven, no longer a family despite Esme's efforts.
Could I let them have a part of her that only I have had? Could I deal with their thoughts? Would she even agree to it? If I asked her to, she would. If I told Isabella it was the only way to keep the family together, she'd do it. But would she want to? Do I want to know if she wants to? I have six days to think it through. Perhaps a talk with Marcus is in order. My world is about to change again and I am not in control this time.
I don't want her to get hurt. I'd leave with her and Nessie before it came to that. Dammit Alice, meddling from the other side. Damn meddling pixie.
I tossed one of Bella's recently worn sweaters into the box so that I could keep her scent on me during her absence. Perhaps smelling the sweater while speaking on the phone will take the ache away.
BPOV
The batteries in my iPod died before we had been in the sky an hour. Emmett decided to provide our entertainment by making fun of Edward. Jasper decided I wasn't loosening up enough and turned it into a game of manipulating Bella's emotions. I went from laughing to tears in 30 seconds flat. Emmett and I then decided a game of resisting Jasper could be fun. He'd warn us of the emotion and give us five seconds to prepare before the onslaught. I managed to hold off of happiness by thinking of the cliche dead puppies, but that only worked for a moment before I saw Emmett's goofy grin and I fell over my feet laughing.
Jasper then told us “lust,” and I started thinking of my grandparents having sex and it must have been working; I felt nothing. I'm guessing that laughing in Jasper's face was not the most mature reaction, but Emmett seemed amused. Jasper however got the last laugh, or maybe it was Emmett, anyone but me.
“Jasper, I think you're losing your touch.” I set a hand on his shoulder while giggling at his pout. Then I felt the tingle. “Oh my...”
“Yes, Bella?” His lips twisted up into a smirk as his eyes took on a gleam I haven't seen in weeks. His hand settled onto my hip while he flooded the cabin with lust. I could feel my arousal rising and knew that both of them could smell me.
“Is something the matter, little sister?” His hand tightened on my hip as the waves of sex poured through me. My eyes rolled back in my head, and if I hadn't been sure of his hand on my hip and the other on my arm, and that my ears registered Emmett still seated five feet away, I would have thought I was being touched. The pressure was building on my clit as if being stroked. I opened my eyes to see him smiling and the waves ebbed and flowed, crashing over me until I could feel my body clenching, ready for a mind blowing orgasm, moans and pants coming from my lips, when it stopped. I crumpled to my knees, my body denied what it needed, with no release coming for a week.
“Jasper!” I hissed between my teeth when I could get enough air in my lungs to speak at all.
“Do you need something, Bella? I didn't touch you. Did I, Emmett?” We both turned to look at a rather shocked Emmett. If a vampire could flush, he would have been; his jaw hung slack, his eyes glazed over, and his pants hid nothing of his reaction to the scene and emotions. “Emmett? Was that too cruel? I guess Edward did tell me to take care of her.” His face blanked to show no emotion as he looked into my eyes, topaz much like my beloved's meeting my now rusty orange eyes, as he unleashed his gift quickly, a scream leaving my lips as my back arched, my orgasm rushing through me. I collapsed back against the ground and could hear Emmett swearing, no doubt needing to use the restroom to clean himself up if he was getting as strong a dose of Jasper's talent. Jasper's smile returned as he offered me a hand up. I pulled him down on top of me instead. He looked surprised as I flipped us over so I was sitting across his stomach.
“If you do that ever again without my permission, I will see that you are separated from your little friend here and don't find it anytime soon.” Jasper's only response was to grab my hips and push me back so that I could feel his hardened cock against me.
“You weren't the only one affected, Bella. You enjoyed it, Emm enjoyed it, and I enjoyed it. No one was hurt here. You're embarrassed that anyone could evoke that from you but Edward. It's just sex, a release. Lighten up. Stop it. Right now. I can feel your guilt. This game was Alice's idea. She knew what it would turn into. She figured you'd need it. Based on Emmett's panic in the bathroom right now, I'm pretty sure I'm the only one who didn't get off here.” Jasper bucked his hips against me as he spoke. The sensation against my already blood filled genitals elicited another moan from deep in my throat as I slid against him. “I can feel your desire. I won't take you, not without Edward's permission, although we both want it. You're curious of what it would feel like if I am touching you. And I assure you, I'm not little.”
I couldn't speak. Feeling his erection through the denim pressing against me had my own arousal building again and I knew he wouldn't take me that far. The guilt of what Edward would think, of my own thoughts about my brother-in-law consumed me. But beyond that was the lust for the gorgeous scar covered blond boy beneath me who wanted me. Lust rolled off us both and he hissed as I rubbed against him. My hips rocked, trying to get as close as we could allow, while his gift played us both. I pressed harder into him until his breathing became erratic and the jolt of his hips lifted him and I clear from the ground. I traced my hands up from his arms where they had been resting to his chest, pressing slightly for leverage as my hips mimicked the acts I'd performed with Edward but at an angle he'd never allowed. Jasper didn't find me too fragile as he thrust his jean clad crotch against me, desperate for the friction I was providing. I thought of every sexual act I could, and dwelled in the lust and want that filled me. Jasper groaned and his hips ground against me as his fingers pulled at the pockets of my pants, twisting in the fabric, tearing it slightly before letting go.
His own need sated, Jasper's face slid back into the blank depression he'd had since Alice's death. “I'm sorry, Bella. I don't know what came over me. The hormones just took over and I lost control of everything.” I climbed into his lap and put an arm around him.
“It'll be okay; we'll figure things out. We can talk about this later.” It was then that Emmett stepped out from the front of the plane and reentered our cabin area. I kissed Jasper's cheek before settling into the seat next to him.
“Ummm. Yeah. The pilot dude says that we'll be landing in a half hour. So if you can not do that thing again with making me want to fuck Bella silly at least until we're off a moving object two thousand feet above the ground, the pilots would probably appreciate it.” He stepped over to the fridge and pulled out the last bag Carlisle had sent. “Last call at the bar. Let Bartender Emmett satisfy your thirst.”
Jasper let out a tentative smile and exhaled his held breath as I cracked up laughing at the change the three of us had made in the past few hours in the air. We spent the next half hour giggling about how this year was a great vintage for mountain lion but not so much on bear. I made Emmett promise to take me bear hunting when we got home, to which he readily agreed but said we'd leave Jasper behind as he doesn't want to “hump an irate grizzly because my brother thought it would be funny.”
I walked between the boys, each with an arm around my waist and our carry-ons in arm, while the stewardess we'd banished to the cockpit assured us our luggage was already transferred to the next jet. Other passengers in the terminal looked at us strangely, our long pants, long sleeves and sunglasses worn indoors in Mexico. We quickly made our way to our next plane's terminal and snagged seats away from the windows for our layover. Emmett went off to find more batteries for my iPod and Jasper played with the emotions of people waiting. Emmett returned with an entire bag of batteries, a selection of magazines, and some snacks- for keeping up appearances- while a group of teen girls on their holiday break sitting across from us were swooning as he passed them. When he sat next to me the girls audibly sighed, one so much as groaning and muttering “what's so special about her,” which had both guys laughing. I excused myself to go call Edward and let him know we were to the airport safely.
“Bella?” He picked up on the first ring as if he'd been holding the phone waiting.
“Yes, love. We're in Mexico City; all is safe. Our next plane is here and will be boarding in a little while. I miss you”
“I miss you more than words can express. Are the boys behaving?”
“Behaving? Like always Edward. You know how they are.” I hoped I'd covered my shock. He can't read minds that far can he? But hearing his voice made the ache in my chest stop. “I'm not leaving again, love. It hurts too badly to be parted from you.”
“And I from you, my love. Things are interesting here. I found another letter from Alice. She left me, or rather us, some things to think about and discuss when you're safely home in my arms. My Bella, these days are too long”
“What sort of things did Alice write of?” Curiosity piqued my attention; it seemed that Alice had been up to something she was allowing to play out after her demise.
“Just things that are better left for when you're home. She and Marcus are on the same page for several things that I'm not sure about how I feel yet, but if she had visions of them happening I don't see where I, or we, can stop them despite any intentions otherwise. Enough of this, for now. Enjoy your trip the best you can, get to Renesmee, tell her a thousand times over how much her daddy loves her, and then bring her home so we can be a family again. I am supposed to tell you, from Alice, that she's sorry about the batteries and that she knew the game would be fun. What does that mean? What game?”
“Oh that.” Quick thinking time Bella “My iPod batteries died shortly into the flight so Jasper took it onto himself to entertain us with a game of Resist the Emotions, Airplane style.” I would not be telling him about my near joining of the Mile High Club. Good. “In the end, Jasper won; it was nice seeing him happy again even for a few moments.”
“Thanks for playing along, love. I'm sure you all needed some time to forget. Perhaps play another round later, give him an outlet and give the three of you a good dose of humor for the trip.”
An outlet, right.
“I should get back to them, our plane should begin boarding soon love. I love you, Edward.”
“I love you, my Bella. Be safe, my little danger magnet. Until our next call, love. My heart is with you; keep it safe.”
He closed his phone without letting me respond. I returned to my seat between the boys, earning more glares from the school girls and their giggles. For once I was thankful Edward wasn't with us. I don't know if I could control my response to seeing girls fawning over my husband. Jasper arched an eyebrow at me so I'm guessing he picked up some odd responses from me. As he assimilated the jealousy his lips twitched like he was trying to stop a smile. He then blanketed us all in calm before putting his arm across my shoulders.
“What do you think you're doing?”
“Giving the girls a show. Trust me, it will be enjoyable. Lean back into me. Emm, grab her feet.” I found myself being pulled up across their laps as Emmett slid into my chair. Jasper started to comb his fingers through my hair, fanning it over his legs before starting to rub my temples. He then slid off his glasses and looked over at the girls, unleashing the full dazzle. The collective sigh was hard to ignore and I had to fight to keep from laughing. Emmett had started a rather relaxing foot and leg massage when our flight was called. Jas stood, pulling me with him so that I was on my feet smoothly. Emmett began flexing, showing off his muscular build and making the girls delay getting in the boarding queue until we were past. Even I had to admit he has an impressive form. He's not my Edward, but both of my brothers are definitely gorgeous. Then the perfect revenge for earlier came to mind.
“Oh, Jasper.” I slid my glasses up on top of my head like a headband. I turned his face to mine and did my best to mimic what Edward's always done to me, widening my eyes, smiling up at him. When his own eyes widened and breathing became labored, I knew I'd done it right. So I thought of what we'd done earlier until I felt the familiar ache between my legs start up. His left hand clamped down on my shoulder while his right slid my glasses back into place before tracing his finger over my lower lip.
“I'd stop that if you don't want a repeat performance in the middle of first class. Edward was right, you are a dangerous creature.” I laughed at how shaken he was and skipped off to the queue with my ticket and boarding pass.
“Bro, you started something on the plane and I don't know if Eddiekins will be happy when we get home, with any of us. I mean, I miss Rose more than anything, but man I'd tap that in a minute if I could.”
“Me too, Emmett. Me too.” I looked over at my brothers, knowing that I'd be blushing from both embarrassment and a little bit of indignation over their discussion of me as if I couldn't hear them. I sighed and tapped my foot while they came over with the bags.
Our seats in first class were comfortable, not as nice as the couches in the jet, but nice none the less. The boys and I sat together, making me thankful to no longer have human needs as the stewardesses completely ignored me to ask Emmett and Jasper if they needed anything and to assure them that anything they wanted, anything at all, would be obtained immediately. It annoyed me more than it should have, but then I guess being a good sister to Alice and Rose I didn't like seeing my brothers flirted with when their mates were so recently gone.
I was most definitely not jealous.
The flight itself was uneventful- we sat listening to music, occasionally visiting, and making the random visit to the bathroom to appear normal. Luckily for Emmett and me, Jasper was pretending to be asleep and did not continue the previous game. I am still confused over what happened, well not what happened but the reasoning behind it and what it means from here. I'm married to their brother, he's the love of my existence, my soul mate, they are my brothers and we're all in mourning for their lost wives. Having them think of me in that way- as someone desirable- is a mindtrip. I've always been plain human Bella. And then I found Edward and he thought I was beautiful. Then he saved my life after Nessie was born, making me one of them, making me as beautiful as they are. Now this.
Edward once told me that vampires don't change quickly, but I think we may have changed on that plane. Something is different. I feel a love beyond familial for them, maybe it's just lust.
Oh god! I can't believe I did that with Jasper. Even fully clothed, it was too far. I hope that Edward can forgive me. If he doesn't, I don't know what I'll do. I can't leave Renesmee, but I cannot exist without Edward at my side. He's my other half but now it is like the piece of our puzzle has gotten larger and made room for others within it. What if we could share? Would he share me? If the situation was reversed, could I share him? Is this what Alice wanted for Jasper? Could I ever live up to what Rose and Alice were like in bed? They had a human lifetime together, more even, and I'm just 18 and have only been with Edward.
“Can you please stop it? You're driving me insane. Confusion, love, anger, hapiness, love, lust- lots of lust, more love, confusion, despair, jealousy.. Can't you just pick one feeling and stay there?” Jasper's voice came out as a low hiss, too quick for any one without our sensitive ears to hear.
“I'm sorry but most of them are your fault.” I turned away and set my head against the window, turning up my speakers to drown out any further conversation. I felt childish, as if I'd turned and stuck my tongue out at him, but I just couldn't deal with this now. It's too dangerous if I get upset, I didn't want to risk our trip if bloodlust came over me. The burn was still as strong as the very first day but I am able to ignore it, lock it away, breathe shallowly until the danger is past. It still requires part of my brain focusing on my human family, remembering that this scent I'm picking up is human, not food. Every time I feel the burn of venom on my throat, the consuming fire, I know that Edward loves me. He fought a desire for my blood stronger than I feel now because he loved me more than he wanted my blood. My thoughts turned to Renesmee and holding her in my arms once again. She'd be taller now, probably thinned out a bit, although the way Jacob eats, she just as likely could be putting on weight too- trying to keep up with him.
My thoughts lost on my beautiful daughter, the remainder of the flight went quickly as I went over every memory of Renesmee. The landing gear withdrawing from its storage space shook me from wandering in my own mind. Jasper grabbed my arm and pulled me from the plane as soon as the doors were open, Emmett behind and to the side. Jasper sensed my confusion and alarm and said “Come on, let's get our bags and go to the hotel before the sun comes out. We have a short window according to Alice. Let's not screw up already.” He slid his arm down to my lower back, the touch firm and guiding yet intimate; had blood still flowed in my veins the blush would be creeping down my neck at this point. His chuckle heightened my reaction and I sidestepped away to walk with Emmett, not knowing if I should like the feelings I had.
“Emmett, could you just carry me through here? The scent is getting to me when people come too close. Please, big brother?” I tilted my head down while looking up, letting the sunglasses slide down a little so he could see my eyes. He picked me up into his arms and slung me over his shoulder while I laughed. Emmett slapped me on my ass for laughing so I started smacking him. Jasper seemed a little upset at our antics, which had Emmett making faces. His childlike nature is so refreshing at times.
We made it to the baggage claim, picked up our suitcases and headed out to the shuttles. The temperature would have been oppressive had I been human, I could feel the humidity pressing on us and smell the salt on the breeze from the ocean. And then I smelled it.. The faint remnant of Jake and Renesmee. My silent heart swelled in my chest and a single tear slid down my cheek. I scrubbed at the venom with my shirt cuff to keep it from burning again- the skin just now fully healed from the last ones to fall. “They've been here. I smell them.”
Jasper spoke in hurried Portuguese with a bus driver, finding us one that would take us near our hotel. We were bordering the Tijuca Forest as closely as possible, hunting be our first goal tonight. As we exited the shuttle, we decided it would be best to play the honeymoon card as we had the suite waiting for us. Edward hadn't changed our reservations despite the change in travelers. Emmett picked me up into his arms and carried me in his arms while our “translator and tour guide” helped check us in. I had some rudimentary knowledge of Spanish but no where near Jasper's fluency, but then he'd had to deal with so many armies from this area during his war fighting at Maria's side. Emmett just seemed amused to be holding me and being allowed to cop a feel of my ass while I squirmed in his arms. Jasper procured our key and led us to the stairs up to our room. The hotel was open to the breezes and I longed to lay out in the sunshine to soak up the rays I'd missed living in Forks but not here of all places. Perhaps our next home would have a safe place to enjoy the sun.
Emmett tossed me onto the bed, my laughter ringing through room. Jasper dropped our bags with a huff, “I'm glad someone's amused at this.”
I couldn't let him stay upset. “Oh Jasper, lighten up. You can carry me next if it'll help.” I giggled at the shock on his face. “I'm going to go shower and get changed. Hunt tonight?”
The water washed away the smells of all the humans that had come close to us. I slipped into the terrycloth hotel robe before going to my suitcase. Opening it I saw that each day had two if not three outfits already labeled and on hangers. Alice. For now she had a pair of black yoga pants with a ballet top in charcoal waiting for me. I slid them on and then let the boys figure out who go the next shower. I called Edward while Jasper was in the shower and Emmett was getting dressed in the front room. I sprawled out on the bed while listening to the smooth velvet tones I missed already.
Emmett started singing “Edward and Bella sitting in a tree,” only stopping when I picked up the lamp, ready to throw it at his head. “What is with the hitting? All the women folk in this family want to hit me.” Edward's clear laughter echoed through the phone and he told me to go hunt, another profession of love and this time I closed my phone first.
At dusk we slipped from the back patio of the hotel down the path to the forest, passing beneath the one hundred and twenty feet tall statue of Jesus. Emmett looked around before scaling the statue to sit on Jesus' shoulder. “Look, I'm one with the man. You want salvation, talk to me, baby.” Jasper and I lost it, laughing until we sat on the ground, rocking with hysterics. Then a new scent hit us and we saw a golden orange flash through the trees- several of them. Emmett jumped down, the ground dented where he landed, and took off after the creatures. Jasper and I stayed on the path, shadowing where Emmett loped in the woods. He came out holding two furry creatures, one in each hand. “Evil Demons! I found Evil Demons.”
Jasper and I looked at what he held, golden lion tamarins, annoying and cute, but not evil nor demons.
“The movie said they're demons. Nicole Kidman had one and it sure was evil.”
It dawned on me what he was talking about it. The Golden Compass. Mrs. Coulter's Daemon. “Emmett, big brother, I love you but you really need to start reading. It's daemon.. D. A.E.M.O.N. Not demon like an evil spirit. Besides- it was just a movie.” His goofy grin was infectious and I started smiling as he tossed one to each of us, a quick snack before the real hunt.
A/N: The golden lion tamarins are an endangered species; their numbers are no longer found in all of the rain forests of their former homeland.
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