I do not own Twilight, SM does but I love playing with the characters so enjoy!

This chapter is much longer than I expected which explains the delay. It is technically Thurs. here but somewhere it's still Wed so don't be too mad at me.

38. Good-byes Are Not Always Forever

EmPOV

I had made the call to Jacob letting him know our plans while Alice and Char occupied Bella with plans for our move to Tennessee. The pack was planning a farewell bonfire for Bella and I at the end of the week before we left Forks for good. Carlisle and Esme had made the trip to Alaska without incident and Eleazar was very happy to help his old friend get his life sorted out. Jacob and Quil had spent the last three days with us interrogating Peter, Char, Jasper and Alice on everything; their histories, their future plans and most importantly their relationship with Bella. They claimed it was because they were worried that she might be hurt again. I think they just wanted to know who'd be taking their place as protectors for her plus they wanted as much time with her as possible before we left. They both understood why we couldn't stay and why our trips back would be short and far between. When they were both satisfied that Bella would truly be loved and cared for by our 'family' they went back to the reservation. They needed to be close to their imprints even though they were hurting with the knowledge that they were losing Bella.

Bella and I had spent the entire day in Seattle shopping for laptops, internet cards, cell phones and video cameras. She didn't want to miss anything special that happened within the pack. We hadn't discussed our financial plans with the pack yet and had decided that we would tell them tonight. We'd invited the whole pack, their imprints and some of the council to a party at our house, compliments of Alice and Charlotte. "How do you think the tribe will take the gifts?" Bella asked me as we drove back down the driveway towards the house. I sighed heavily because the same question had been on my mind since the idea came to me. Her hand reached for mine as we came to a stop by the garage. "I hope they'll be accepting and understand our true intentions. I would never want to make them feel like they were taking charity. They've just done so much for us…." my voice trailed off as I looked into Bella's eyes. They were slowly turning to gold and now resembled a beautiful orange sunset. I leaned in and kissed her soft lips. "They're family….they'll understand," she whispered as we pulled apart. I couldn't help the smile that spread across my face as I thought about the special gift I'd picked up for Quil. No matter what I would always be closer to him than anyone other than Bella. We'd formed an unspoken understanding over the past months with Bella. We both loved her deeply and would do anything to protect her. Jacob was automatically in our club, even though he'd actually broken her heart when he phased, he still loved her deeply. He'd also loved her longer than either Quil or I had.

Jasper and Peter came out and helped us unload our purchases into the house. "Wow, the place looks great ladies," Bella called out as we walked into the house. Of course Alice had gone overboard as usual. There were long tables piled with every kind of food imaginable. The decorations were extravagant and all nature related so the house smelled overwhelmingly like the forest. I noticed a fire pit already prepared in the back yard with low benches scattered around it. "You know Alice we could have just done this outside instead of bringing the whole forest inside," I laughed as we set the last of the boxes in the living room. "Har, har Emmett. I did all of this for you and Bella anyway so a little gratitude would be nice. Besides I'm hoping the decorations will cover some of the wet dog smell," Alice said with a grin while Bella huffed and the rest of us laughed. "Is it that time already?" Bella asked causing us all to stop and listen to see what she'd heard. A grin spread across my face as I grabbed her hand and headed to the front door. "Yep, that's them." I felt Bella shift next to me. "I don't know if I can do this Em. It's not just the pack but the imprints too. What if I can't control myself….what if I hurt someone?" her voice fell to a whisper as she spoke. I turned and pulled her into my arms locking my eyes with hers. "B, you'll be fine. You didn't eat the hotel staff in Seattle, you didn't eat the boy scouts your first time out. You won't eat the council or the imprints…they're family remember. Also that's what the rest of us are here for. Jasper will be watching your feelings for any sign of bloodlust and Peter and I will be close by all night. If you get nervous just hold your breath, okay?" I smiled down at her as I reassured her of her control. The cars came to a stop outside and we walked hand in hand out the front door to greet our other family.

Jacob and Quil were the first ones to us with Ellie hiding slightly behind Jacob. "Hey guys glad you could make it," I greeted as they hugged Bella. I kept my eye on Ellie as she watched the interaction between the four of us. Bella pulled away from Quil and turned her attention to Ellie who still seemed nervous. "Hey Ellie, I'm Bella. I'm sorry I didn't get to meet you properly sooner but a lot has happened since my Jakey here imprinted on you," she said with a smile holding her hand out to Ellie. Jacob held Ellie's hand and nodded reassuringly at her as she stepped closer to shake Bella's hand. "Hi, Jake's told me all about you. I'm sorry we won't have time to get to know you before you have to leave. I know how important you are to Jake which means you're important to me too. If there's ever anything you need please let us know." Ellie paused for a second and shifted uncomfortably before continuing. "Maybe we could exchange phone numbers. You know Jacob can be a little difficult sometimes and it'd be nice to have someone to talk to who understands him." She smiled shyly at Bella who pulled her into a gentle hug. "Of course Ellie, I would love that," Bella whispered in her ear before releasing her so she could follow Jacob into the house. We greeted the other guests, some of whom weren't very pleased to be here but were cordial none the less. The conversations seemed to flow freely while the pack ate and complimented Alice and Char on their decorations and food. Bella and I made a point to move around the room and talk to everyone as the meal continued. By the time everyone was full the atmosphere seemed to have relaxed. Peter and Jasper were getting along really well with the pack, talking fight tactics and what not. Char was sharing recipes with some of the imprints while Alice was explaining the advantages of buying in bulk online, not just for food but clothing also. I took Bella's hand and led her away from her conversation with Billy to help me start the fire outside. "I think it's time to talk to them. What do you think?" I asked her as I lit the fire. She smiled at me, "I think you're right. Let's get everyone out here and talk to them." Before we could go back inside Quil came out with the others following close behind him.

"Hey, good looking fire. Are there s'mores?" he asked hopefully. Alice laughed as she came flitting out of the house with bags full of chocolate bars, boxes of graham crackers and bags of extra-large marshmallows. "Where did you get these marshmallows?" Embry asked holding one between his fingers. "They're freakin' huge!" Paul exclaimed as he stuck one on his roasting stick. "I'd love to see how many of these you can shove in your mouth Quil," Jake said laughing. "We are not going to find out," Bella admonished. "I am not cleaning up marshmallow puke tonight you two," she finished with a serious glare. Some of the other guys began laughing as they continued to make their s'mores. Jasper, Peter, Char and Alice had stayed inside giving us some privacy to talk to the pack. "Hey where are Jasper and Peter?" Paul asked looking around the fire. I cleared my throat and stood up. "Actually, they're inside with Charlotte and Alice. Bella and I wanted to talk to all of you about something and since it's family related they're giving us some privacy." I looked around the room to see how my words would be accepted. The pack sat up a little straighter as did the council members waiting for me to continue.

I inhaled deeply and took Bella's hand in mine. "You know that Bella and I consider all of you family. If it weren't for all of you Bella would have been killed by Laurent in the woods or by Victoria or one of her newborns. You found her after Edward left her alone in the forest, you loved her, you helped her heal and I can never repay the debt that I owe you for that. You've not only protected her but you've accepted both of us as part of your family. You helped me through my grief when I believed she was lost to me forever. You know we have to leave because of Bella's change but we are also leaving so hopefully no more children will be forced into the life my family has brought upon you. All of that being said, Bella and I have done some things that we hope you will accept as part of our gratitude to you." I sighed heavily as Bella squeezed my hand gently. I pulled an envelope out of my back pocket and handed it to Billy Black who looked at me questioningly. "Inside that envelope are a few things. First is a check for five hundred thousand dollars." I held my hand up as gasps and grumbles began to spread around the room. "Please let me finish. The check is for not only the pack but also to bring some new money into the tribe. I know you work very hard to keep your money on the reservation but there is still some business that has to be done elsewhere. Even with the scattered tourism there isn't enough money to care for the tribe and the pack as well as the council would like, right?" I looked around to the council members for acknowledgement. "I know most of the pack still live with their parents but eventually they'll all need their own spaces and Bella and I would like to help them obtain that. So the check is to be used as the council sees fit; pack housing, new business start-up costs, general land improvements or whatever else is needed." I looked again at each council member as I spoke gauging their reactions. "This is not a hand out. This is an investment in a place we consider our home." Billy smiled at my words and nodded his head in agreement. Bella began bouncing slightly at my side and I knew she was getting anxious for the gift giving to begin. I chuckled lightly as I squeezed her hand again.

"Okay before Bella bounces out of her shoes let me get through the rest of this. Also in that envelope you will find a bank book. The account is set up as a joint account in the name of Emmett and Bella McCarty and Protectors, Inc. Protectors, Inc. is a not for profit organization that helps its community grow by providing educational expenses and living expenses to those deserving of their help. The organization is run by Jacob Black, Sam Uley and Quil Ateara. The money in this account is to be used strictly for the pack; grocery expenses, cell phone and internet bills, online college expenses and any travel that might need to be made." I smiled at Bella as she bounced excitedly next to me. The pack and council looked a little confused. "Emmett I know I'm not the sharpest knife in the drawer but when did we start a not for profit organization? And most of us don't have cell phones let alone computers we could take online courses on so please explain," Jacob said hesitantly. "My attorney set up the organization as a way to help the pack out without too many questions being asked. The money in the account is continually invested according to Alice's stock market visions so it will never run out. The names can be changed as the pack changes so if the pack continues or is ever restarted there will be money specifically for them." I explained quickly before nodding at Bella. "Come on out guys," Bella called to Peter and the others who brought out most of our purchases from the day. "Emmett and I went shopping today. We bought each of you a new laptop with a webcam and wireless internet card, a cell phone with unlimited texting and talk time, and a video camera," Bella practically squealed. I could see the sour looks some of the council members and pack members had so I jumped in to stop any complaints before they started. "I know you probably think this is too much and maybe you're right but I couldn't tell Bella no. These gifts are for purely selfish reasons. Bella may never get to go to college because of the hand life has dealt her, much like yours. She also doesn't want to miss anything. While you may have to live your life on the reservation at least you have your family and friends. Bella's lost all of that and our lives can be very lonely. She wants to be able to pick up the phone and call Quil or Jake or Ellie whenever she wants someone to talk to. She wants to see the crazy stuff you guys pull at the bonfires. She wants to see Emily and Ellie and even Claire round with child when the time comes. She wants to still be a part of this family and this is the only realistic way for that to happen. We can't be here because of what our presence does to you but at least with webcams and cell phones and video cameras we can stay connected. Please don't take this away from her," I finished in a whisper. Several of the men dropped their heads in shame. They knew I was right. Jacob rose to his feet and swept Bella up into one of his bear hugs. "This is great Bells. Thank you," he said setting her back on her feet. I noticed the venom pooling in her eyes as I pulled her into my side. Mumbled thanks rang around the group as Jake sat back down. "Bella and I will deliver everything tomorrow and spend the day helping you set everything up if that's okay," I directed my words to Sam. He nodded his agreement.

The pack stayed and ate and visited for another hour before excusing themselves to home and patrols. We asked Quil to stay behind after the others left so we could give him our special gifts. "So what's up Bro?" Quil asked as we walked into the living room. "Well, I wanted to get something extra special for you. My way of saying thanks for being such a good friend." I waved my hand towards a stack of boxes as we entered the living room. Quil's mouth fell open as he took in the sight before him. "What is all of this? Are you kidding me? I don't know what to say…." His voice trailed off as he looked between me and the boxes. Bella and I both laughed. "Quil you know Emmett just won't be the same if he can't play Xbox with you at least a few times a week," Bella said still chuckling. Quil ran his hands through his hair. "Okay I get that but what is the rest of this stuff for? I mean I really don't need a fifty-six inch TV or what is that….extra remotes?" he asked confusion evident in his voice. "Well I figured you'd need enough remotes for the pack plus a few extras in case anyone has anger issues…." I said letting my sentence trail off as Bella burst into laughter. "Emmett doesn't like to lose and tends to go through a LOT of remotes," she said between giggles. I scowled at her slightly before smiling at her honesty. "Yea well we can't all be as well controlled as you little miss," I said playfully. "Okay so what are those boxes for?" Quil asked bringing our attention back to the pile of boxes in front of us. "Oh those are all of my favorite games and some new ones I thought you'd like. We also got some party games for when the pack gets together so you guys can play together. Plus I got that box full of games for Claire. Bella thought it'd be something you and her could do together. It's mostly educational stuff and lots of girly stuff but they'll be good for the next couple of years." Quil pulled Bella into a hug before slapping me on the back. "Thank you guys this is way too much but I get it. I'll miss you guys so much," he smiled with tears in his eyes. "Hey I really should get home though. I've got early patrol in the morning. You guys will bring this stuff down tomorrow then?" he asked toeing the carpet nervously. "Yea we'll be down tomorrow and I'll make some double chocolate chip cookies for you too," Bella said giving him another hug before walking towards the door. "I love you Quil," she whispered as she hugged him again on the front porch. He gave her a sad smile before turning and running off towards the forest. I pulled Bella into my side and led her upstairs silently.

"I wish I could take the pain away baby girl. I know this is hard on you, especially since you never got to say good-bye to your dad. At least you can still keep tabs on him through Jake and Billy. Plus we won't lose our pack when we leave." I whispered into her hair as I held her close to me. "As long as I have you Em everything else will be fine." She paused for a minute as her fingers ran through my hair and down my neck in a gentle caress. "Make love to me Em, please," she breathed almost silently. I will never deny her anything, I thought as I began removing her clothes.

BPOV

Emmett's body next to mine seemed to be the only thing that eased the pain caused by my losses. I'd lost my life but I'd gained an eternity with my love, Emmett. I'd lost my mom and dad, unable to say good-bye but I knew they'd be taken care of by the pack. Now I was preparing to lose the pack too. At least this wasn't a permanent loss, not yet anyway. Two days. I had two days until we left for Tennessee. As the sun began to shine through the window above our bed I smiled and curled into Emmett's side. "Hey are you making those cookies for Quil before we head to the reservation or down there?" Emmett asked as his fingers ran through my hair. "I should have all the ingredients here so I'll make them before we leave. Have you decided where we're starting this morning?" I asked looking up at his smooth features. "I told Jake I'd call him and have the pack meet at his house. Since everything is the same it'll be easier to go over it once. Quil will be on patrol so we'll go to his house later…have some one on one time," he paused just long enough to kiss my head. "Alice and Char spent the night activating the phones and plugging in the phone numbers so they're ready to go. Peter and Jasper set up the networking on the computers so they're ready to go too. All we have to do is deliver them and set up Billy's TV and then Quil's TV and Xbox system." The smug smile on his face reminded me of a little boy who'd guessed his Christmas present early. "I love you Em," I said as I kissed his chest. "Ugh, baby girl if you want to get those cookies done and get to the rez today you should really stop doing that," he sputtered as my lips moved down his chest. "Fine," I huffed jumping out of bed to dress.

"Hey nice to see you guys emerge. I got everything ready for the cookies. I hope you don't mind," Alice said as we walked down the stairs. I gave her a sincere smile, she was trying. "Thank you Alice. Would you like to help me make them?" She practically jumped into my arms, "Thank you Bella." Emmett and I both chuckled. "It's not a big deal Alice. Thank you for working on the phones last night too. You've been a big help and I appreciate it. You've given me some space and I appreciate that too. We'll get there," I finished hugging her lightly. Jasper, Peter and Char were standing in the door grinning. It really was hard not to love Alice. Emmett wrapped his arms around my waist, kissing my head. "The guys and I are going to load up the jeep okay." I nodded taking Alice and Char into the kitchen with me.

"So things are good between you an' grizzly man?" Char asked as I mixed the cookie batter. I couldn't help the smile that spread across my face. "Yeah, things are great. Things didn't happen the way I had envisioned them but I'm glad I got my chance at eternity with Emmett." I sighed happily as I plopped cookie dough onto the pans. "It still surprises me how much we have in common and how good we really are for each other. Sometimes it hurts when we're apart. I don't think it's like the mating pull but more like part of me is missing. He's so much a part of who I am now that I can't imagine not having him with me." I smiled as I thought back to our meeting in Port Angeles. "When I found him in Port Angeles I felt like a little piece of my heart had mended. He played such a big part in my search for who I really am and what I wanted out of life…. we're so compatible. I know it sounds cheesy but it's like he completes me. I never felt like this with Edward. I always felt like something was missing in my relationship with him but I didn't know what." I let out a bitter chuckle. "I actually blamed myself for not being enough for him. I thought there was something wrong with me and that's what was missing." I shook my head as I set the timer for the first batch of cookies. "I can't wait to get to Tennessee," I said wistfully as my mind drifted to the future.

We worked on the rest of the cookies while discussing our plans for the immediate future and our move to Tennessee. Alice was concerned about the shopping of course but insisted that as long as she had the internet everything would be fine. Char was excited about being back in the mountains. She said her and Peter loved Colorado so Tennessee should be great too. We talked about some of the things I should still expect to deal with as a newborn and the things that I seemed to have no trouble with. Char was amazed, after what she'd seen in her early life, that I had so much control over my emotions and especially my thirst. "You about ready baby girl?" Emmett asked as he came into the kitchen wrinkling up his nose. "Stop that," I scolded swatting his arm. "I know they stink but I can still remember what they used to smell like and it was wonderful." I wrapped the last of the cookies up and handed the containers to Emmett. "Let's go! We'll see you guys later okay," I called as I followed Emmett out of the house.

Our ride to La Push seemed to last forever since Emmett and I were both so excited to get there. The pack was already gathered at Jake's when we arrived. The guys eagerly helped us unload the boxes and pass everything out. Emmett was a whiz with everything electronic so he answered everyone's questions while I helped Seth set up Billy's TV. When Seth and I finished I went to the kitchen and prepared sandwiches for the pack while they played with their new toys. "Hey," Leah said walking into the kitchen. "Do you need any help?" she asked softly. Quil had told me a little about Leah and why she was so jaded and hateful so her offer surprised me. "Um, no I'm just about done but thanks." I turned to look at her as she fidgeted nervously in the doorway. "Look Leah I know we don't really know each other but I believe in complete honesty. If there's something you want to ask me or say to me please just do it. I won't lie to you and I won't sugar coat things. If I don't want to answer or you piss me off I'll tell you," I finished with a cocky grin. She chuckled lightly and sighed. "I think you and I would've gotten along well," she said sadly. "Um, that's the reason for all of this stuff. Just because I'm not here doesn't mean we can't still get to know each other….maybe become friends?" Her eyes met mine and softened slightly. "Thank you, for all of this. I gave up all of my dreams of college and a career when I phased. You've given me back some of that…a lot of that. You're one strong woman Bella. First Edward and then Jacob and Quil…both on the same day…" her voice trailed off as she looked behind her nervously. "…but you're happy now. I guess I figure if you can lose three guys and still find love maybe I should get over the one guy I lost. Maybe there's still hope for me after all." She toed the floor nervously as she spoke. "Of course there's hope for you Leah. You'll find the one that deserves you. Just don't give up okay?" I said. She nodded before turning and going back to the living room with the others.

Once everyone began to eat Emmett and I excused ourselves to go to Quil's. We met him halfway there as he was coming off First Beach. "Hey dude, want a ride?" Emmett called. Quil jogged to the jeep and jumped in the back. "Just finishing patrol?" I asked as he settled in the backseat. "Yeah, I stopped down on the beach to see Claire. Ellie is watching her today and they're building a sandcastle." The joy and love in his voice was obvious whenever he talked about his imprint. "It's so good to see you this happy Quil. I guess it makes my leaving a little easier, knowing you and Jacob have special someone's to love you," I trailed off as Emmett took my hand in his. We stopped in front of Quil's house and carried the boxes inside. "I asked Ellie to keep Claire on the beach for a while so we could get everything set up. I want to surprise her with the new TV and video games." He laughed lightly, "You're going to be her new best friends when she sees all this stuff." Emmett and I laughed with him as we unpacked boxes and began setting things up. I hooked up the TV and Xbox while Emmett showed Quil the cell phone and laptop. "Well I'm all finished," I said with a grin while Quil played with the webcam on the laptop. "I'm gonna walk down to the beach and get Claire and Ellie if that's okay," I stated more than asked. Both guys nodded but continued their conversation without any other acknowledgement.

A smile played on my face as I enjoyed the rare sunny day and my walk through La Push. As I stepped onto First Beach and began looking for Ellie and Claire a howl pierced the air. Something was wrong, I could feel it. Edward? Why the hell is Edward's scent on First Beach? Oh god Ellie and Claire….my mind raced as I took off after the still fresh scent. The cliff top? What is he doing? My phone rang as I ran through the forest towards the cliffs. "He's got Claire and Ellie," I spat into the phone. A fierce growl ripped through the line as Emmett processed what I said. "Where?" he demanded. "Cliffs, I'm almost there….hurry Em." I shoved the phone back into my pocket as I broke through the tree line on the cliffs. I couldn't smell any of the pack so they had probably just picked up Edward's scent on their land. This was one of the times I was thankful for the vast vampire brain I now possessed. As I continued to reach my senses out in search of the pack I was able to also take in the scene before me. Edward had Claire in one hand by the arm while Ellie was being held over the edge of the cliff by her neck. My vision began to blur and turn red as I glared at Edward. "What are you doing Edward?" I demanded. "Let them go now." My voice was hard as steel as I stepped towards him searching for a way to make the girls safe and get them away from him. His harsh laughter brought my focus back to him. "You think you can demand anything of me, love? You've turned your back on me. You've cheated on me with my own brother!" Edward's voice sounded almost maniacal. He lifted Claire to his face and ran his nose down her neck. For the first time, I noticed his eyes were no longer the beautiful gold I'd always loved but rather a bright red. "You've fed from a human Edward." It was a statement of fact and not a question but it brought his evil laughter to the surface again. "Oh love; it's your fault you know. You could have prevented it. You can still prevent this," he said dangling Ellie over the edge of the cliff. I could sense the pack getting closer as he spoke. "How Edward? Tell me what you want. I'll give you anything. Just let the girls go," I begged stepping closer to him. Claire was just feet from me but I couldn't grab for her or Ellie would get hurt. Edward smirked at me as the pack broke through the tree line. I held my hand up towards them to halt their movement. Quil and Jacob's wolves growled simultaneously.

"You just have to tell the truth love. Tell Emmett you don't really love him. Tell him that you're choosing me instead, that you love me. Leave the big oaf here and come with me, love. I can give you everything you need….anything you want." I couldn't believe my ears as I listened to Edward speak. I could feel Emmett behind me and I lifted my hand to stop him from coming any closer when Edward snarled in his direction. "You're right Edward. Everything has been a lie. I only want to be with you," I tried my best innocent voice as I took another step towards him locking his gaze with mine. "Leave the girls here and take me away with you. Show me what I need Edward," I cooed. My stomach turned in on itself with my lies and deceit. Edward studied me closely as he brought Ellie back over solid ground. "No, I don't trust you love. You love these filthy mutts too much. I think you need to prove yourself to me." He tossed Claire towards me causing her to scream out in fright. It took every ounce of my control to catch her little body without crushing it. I held her close to me trying to comfort her as Edward watched me. I knew immediately that I'd messed up. He was watching to see how I'd handle the child, the wolf child in his mind. I moved to set her down as I felt Quil phase behind me. "DO NOT PUT HER DOWN ISABELLA!" Edward shouted causing me to grip her just a little too tightly. "Shhh, I'm sorry Claire. It's okay sweetie. It'll be okay, I promise," I whispered into her hair. "SHUT UP!" Edward shouted as he glared at the pack behind me. "I can't focus with all of you shouting at me," he almost pleaded. "They're going with us," he nodded towards Ellie and Claire as he spoke. "I may get hungry on the way," he snickered evilly causing Ellie to cry out desperately. He pulled her close to his body and inhaled her scent. "She does smell a little like you mutt but I can fix that," Edward sneered as he ran his tongue down her neck from her ear to her collar bone. Jacob's wolf growled menacingly behind me. I could feel his anxiety which along with Claire's sobs turned my vision completely red.

The sound that escaped my mouth when I opened it was beyond description. A mix of anger, hatred, frustration and pure fury radiated off of me. Before I even knew what'd happened Edward was on his knees clutching his now severed wrist. Ellie was on her knees also, trying to pry Edward's fingers from her neck. A slight shimmer around her was the only indication of what had happened. "Holy shit B!" Emmett whispered in awe. Edward jumped to his feet reaching for his hand but was unable to penetrate the shield that was still around Ellie. He began screaming at me to give him back his hand. I handed Claire to Quil, who quickly began checking her for injuries. As I stalked towards Edward I vaguely recognized Jacob's voice behind me begging to get to Ellie. My eyes flashed to him for a fraction of a second as I consciously pulled my shield off of her. Edward was backed against the edge of the cliff visibly trembling. I saw his decision to jump the second he made it. A red haze covered my eyes again as I screamed, "NOOOOOOO!" Emmett's booming laughter cleared my vision as I took in the sight before me. Edward was dangling over thin air trying desperately to fall into the water below but unable to. A light shimmer showed the outline of a bubble around him. "Bella! Bella, let me out of here!" Edward demanded. "Hhm," I said with a sigh and a wrinkle of my eyebrows. "Do you think I can move him back over land before removing the shield? I'd really hate to have to jump in and catch him," I asked to no one in particular. Emmett's strong arms wrapped around my waist as I thought about what to do with Edward. "Why don't you try?" Emmett whispered in my ear. A shiver ran down my spine at the feel of his warm breath on me.

I closed my eyes and concentrated on bringing Edward back over land and releasing the shield. He fell with a loud thud to the ground where the pack surrounded him completely. Jake and Quil growled as they put their imprints behind them. "Come on," I said to Ellie as I took Claire from Quil's trembling hands. "This is something you really don't want to see," I said as Jake placed her hand in mine and kissed her cheek. "We'll be at Billy's when you're done okay Em?" I called as I walked into the forest with the two scared girls. My body tensed slightly when I heard the first metallic ripping sounds echo through the forest. I knew the girls wouldn't hear it but it still made my skin crawl. "Will they be okay?" Ellie asked as we cleared the forest. I wrapped my arm around her waist and pulled her close to me in a half hug. "Of course they'll be fine. This is what they were made for. Protectors, remember?" I smiled at her. Claire had fallen asleep against my shoulder and I couldn't help but enjoy the feel of her tiny body in my arms. "Thank you," Ellie whispered. "No need to thank me. If it wasn't for me you would never have been in danger to begin with. I'm sorry." Ellie squeezed me tighter, "Don't be sorry. No one is to blame but him." We walked the rest of the way to Billy's in silence.

QPOV

As soon as we knew the girls wouldn't hear what was happening, the pack backed away from Edward. Jacob and I looked at each other for just a second before phasing. We worked in complete harmony slowly tearing Edward apart. Leah and Seth built the fire while Embry and Emmett tossed the pieces in for us. I couldn't believe he'd taken our imprints as a way to try to get Bella back. The pack dispersed after the last piece of Edward was tossed into the fire. Jake and I phased together to watch the fire burn. Emmett stood by us offering his silent support while we dealt with the events of the past hour. I'd never thought about losing Claire and today made that a very real possibility. I was thankful for Bella's presence today. I knew she'd blame herself for this but if she hadn't been here Edward may have killed them before the pack found them. "Why do you think he did it? I mean I know he wanted Bells back but why our imprints?" I asked as we walked back through the forest. Jake shook his head while Emmett sighed. "I think it was a combination of every mistake he's made over the years. He left Bella because of his misguided belief that she'd be safer without him. She turned to a pack of teenage wolves that protected and loved her. Then he assumed she still loved him and tried to go back to the way things were before he left. She told him off and almost got herself killed in an auto accident which I guess did actually end her life. He never wanted her to be changed. I think that was the final straw. After he saw with his own eyes that she'd been changed and still didn't love him I think he just lost it. He wanted to hurt anyone he could but most importantly he wanted to hurt Bella. He knew from my thoughts how close Bella and I had become to you two. I guess he figured the best way to hurt Bella was to hurt those she cared about the most." We walked on in silence for a while longer.

"What was that freaky thing she did up there? Was that some kind of shield or something?" Jake asked as we walked across First Beach. Emmett grinned from ear to ear. "Yeah, wasn't that awesome. God that was so hot!" Emmett said dreamily obviously replaying it in his head. Jake and I both chuckled bringing him back to the present. "Um sorry. Yeah Edward was never able to hear Bella's mind so Carlisle thought she might be a mental shield of some kind. I guess her shield is physical too if she gets angry enough. Did you see her eyes when the shield was up? They were cycling between red, orange and yellow like flames dancing in a fire….amazing," he whispered. Jake chuckled, jabbing Emmett in the ribs as we approached his house. Billy was sitting on the front porch as we walked up. "Everything okay now?" he asked. We nodded. "It's been handled," Jake answered flatly. "Um, be quiet when you go in there," he cautioned as we stepped onto the porch. The three of us looked at each other curiously before opening the door quietly. We stopped in our tracks as we looked at the sight before us. Bella was lying back in the center of the couch with her eyes closed as if she were sleeping. Ellie was curled into her left side sound asleep while Claire was curled into her right side snoring softly. Jake reached over, grabbed his phone off the side table and snapped a picture. We moved back out the door quietly closing it behind us. "Xbox?" Emmett said with a raised eyebrow. "Let's go," Jake and I replied in unison laughing. Life would be good…no matter the distance we were family and nothing would ever change that.

THE END

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