Monday's Musings

Hello everyone!

It's a cold, snowy day out here on the Palouse... got about three inches of snow on the ground. Whoopee! Anyway... I want to start a new segment called Monday's Musings in which I say basically whatever the hell is on my mind. So here goes nothin'.

• Readers: while I appreciate you guys putting me on your favorites, authors alerts, and story alerts, I would appreciate a review even more. Honestly, I work my butt off to write at least 3000 words for you guys. It would be nice if I could at least get one sentence from you saying 'great chapter' or something, though I would appreciate a more detailed review than that. Reviews are what authors want... not alerts. If every person who put my story on alert reviewed... I'd have well over a hundred reviews.
• On the same topic of readers: Please, for the love of all that is holy, read the author's notes. They are there for a reason. I had one review (and I'm not complaining) where an anonymous review said it was basically Sassafrass Junction. 1) It says in the chapter 1 a/n, that some aspects were INSPIRED by SJ. 2) The author of SJ is aware of this story and has it on her story alerts. READ people. READ.
• Writers: If you're going to include lemons in your story, great. But it would actually be helpful if you weren't a VIRGIN (not that there is anything wrong with being a virgin). Don't write about something that you know nothing about. Also, please don't include a lemon in every single chapter or multiple lemons in a chapter. Seriously, I've seen 6-8 chapter stories with fifteen or so lemons already. First, I don't know anybody that has sex every single day... if they do, they may have a problem. Second, you should focus on your plot line first. Nothing upsets me more than seeing a story that is about 10 chapters in with 1000+ reviews that has no plot line. At all. It's just sex overload. It's not fair for those authors who actually deserve that amount of reviews for a well thought out and written plot line.
• Lastly: It needs to stop snowing. I'm over it.

Well, that's all the musings for now. Until next week everyone!

The Art of Redemption: Chapter 6

                                                                The Art of Redemption


                                                                          Chapter 6

PPOV

Jasper was a fuckin' moron. A moron who didn't know what the hell he had, even if it was starin' him right in the face. How could he not see how perfect Kitten was for him? How could he not see that she was his true mate? In all my years, I ain't ever seen the Major take to a human like he had Bella Swan. Hell, I ain't ever seen him take to a human… unless he was eatin' 'em.

But Kitten was different. She would be his rock and not take any of his shit. She would help him reclaim who he was while lettin' the Major shine through. She was just like him too… except she had a pussy. And I knew he could feel the pull to her, he just wouldn't acknowledge it. Yet.

Char and I had known all along that Alice wasn't his mate. The Major's mate would have to be strong and be able to put up with his shit without takin' any of it. Not turn him into some overeager Bambi-munchin' lapdog that would do as he was told, when he was told to do it.

So here I was keys in hand and ready to go talk some sense into him. Just as I was about to open the door, my gorgeous wife wrapped her arms around my body. "Where do ya think you're goin' Sug?" she purred seductively.

He's gonna fuckin' owe me.

God help me, I really didn't want to say this. "The Major needs me Char."

I heard her sigh before she pulled away and I turned to face her. "Make him understand Peter. He's finally found her… don't let him fuck it up and lose her," she said with a smile. She didn't have to say it, but I knew Char was excited to meet her new sister. Even without meeting her, she was attached to her and it was going to be hard to keep her away for much longer. If I was bein' honest, I was pretty sure she already had Kitten's room done.

After a less than chaste kiss with the wifey, I jumped in the Tahoe and was on the way to Kitten's apartment building to straighten out the mess the Major had caused. Or, at least, preventin' said mess from happening.

It didn't take long to get to her apartment building. From what I could tell, she lived in a nice area; it wasn't a cheap building but it suited her and her lifestyle just fine. I parked the Tahoe next to a new black Camaro. When I got out of the truck, I could smell both Jasper and Kitten near the car. I could only assume it was hers.

She's got taste. I'll give her that.

Something told me to go to the back of the building. So that's where I went. My 'gift' had never steered me wrong before so I sure as fuck wasn't gonna question it now. I had always been, even as a human, able to see what others couldn't. Now, I couldn't see the future like the pocket pixie but most of the time… I just knew shit. And it's because of that that I was currently standing below Kitten's balcony trying to sort out this mess and make the Major see the truth.

I leapt up and landed on the balcony that Jasper had been frequenting every night for the last week or so. Inside, I could hear Kitten's steady breathin' and heartbeat indicatin' that she was fast asleep.

"What the fuck do you want?" Jasper hissed from inside the apartment.

"To talk," I said as I jiggled the handle to the French door. The door was unlocked so it opened easily and I stepped through the sheer green curtain and into her room. Her room was clean with just enough disarray to make it have a homey feel to it with framed pictures on every free surface.

Bella's delicate, slightly tropical scent permeated the air. But instead of wanting to drain her dry, I wanted to protect her. Protect her from the evils of the world… protect her from heartache. Jasper snorted.

"That happens a lot around her. That sudden urge to protect her," he said quietly as he looked at the sleeping girl in his arms. He had his right arm around her body while she was snuggled against his body, her arms clinging to him for dear life. She fit against him perfectly. I smiled.

"What's so amusin'?"

"You."

"What the fuck you talkin' 'bout?"

"It's just…fuck man, I've never seen you this comfy with a human. You're either ignorin' 'em or eatin' 'em. Not snugglin' up with 'em."

"I ain't snugglin'. And Bella's… different."

"No shit she's different. Jesus, can't you see what's right in front of you? I know you're supposed to be smarter and wiser but Major, you're a dumbass." I walked over and sat down on the end of the bed. When I put my hand on her covered foot, Jasper growled in warning.

"Don't touch her," he hissed and it was pretty fuckin' clear that the Major was protectin' his little lady.

I didn't move my hand. Instead, I just smiled. "See, that shit right there, that's what I'm talkin' about. You're protectin' her for a reason Major." His jaw was clenched and his eyes were fixated on the hand I had on Bella's foot. He growled again and I removed my hand. I really didn't want to lose it, that shit hurts.

"Why?"

"It's simple. She belongs to you just as much as you belong to her. Major, she's your mate. And whether you realize it or not, you already love her, just like she already loves you."

I could see that he was warring with himself. A part of him was happy that he had finally found her. The other part was confused as all get out. He furrowed his brows and slowly shook his head 'no'. "She can't be my mate Peter. I tried to attack her four years ago. It's not possible."

"For fucks sake Major, you weren't gonna eat her. She's your brother's singer; you were protectin' her from his crazy ass."

"No. I felt the bloodlust."

"Yeah, his and everyone else's. Let's say you were gonna try to make her a snack, as soon as you touched her, you would have stopped."

"How can you be sure?"

"I just know shit."

"Why are you so protective of her?"

I shrugged my shoulders. "Because she's yours. You would protect Char and I would protect Kitten here."

He looked at the sleeping beauty in his arms and smiled before leaning down and kissing her forehead. Now I wasn't normally one for all the mushy love shit but this… this was somethin' else. To see Maria's right hand bein' this close and tender with a human was nothin' short of spectacular.

"Let me ask you this. Is there any goin' back for you now?" When he didn't respond I knew I had my answer. I got up off the bed and walked back to the door. "Bring her by the house. Char is itchin' to meet her new sister and it would be nice if I could officially meet her too." Jasper nodded. I was about to walk out the door when I remembered one thing. "Oh, and Jasper? I told you this would be better than the balcony."

And with one final growl from the Major, I was gone and on my way back home. After all, I had me a woman to get back to.

JPOV

Mate? I had been around hundreds of mated pairs throughout my existence but I couldn't even tell that I was mated; to a human no less. Sure, the physical attraction had been there, how could it not be? And that invisible pull to her had been gettin' stronger and stronger from the first day I saw her at Forks High. But I had always believed that it was the call of her blood, not the call of her.

I don't know what frustrated me more: the fact that I didn't know she was mine, the fact that Peter had pointed it out, or the fact that Alice had flat out lied to me in that diner and every day for the last sixty years. I had loved her with every fiber of my being but even I knew deep down, if it came to my own life or hers, I would choose my own life every time without question.

That should have been my first clue.

But without Alice would I have met Bella? Was that her plan all along?

I didn't know.

Watching Bella sleep peacefully beside me was heaven and I now understood what Edward liked about it so much. Aside from the snoring, she was quite entertaining to listen to. She said the darndest things as she slept and I found myself laughing quietly at her ramblings about flying monkeys and magic bananas.

I looked down at my Bella and smiled. She was so beautiful. My chest ached to hold her; to protect her; to love her. She deserved the whole world and I would to do everything in my power to make her happy for the rest of my existence. It was funny to actually think that at one time I had wanted to destroy the creature that was snuggled into my side, all for the sake of saving the family. But now, all I wanted to do was to make her smile and call her mine.

She shifted slightly in the bed and curled further into me; her head was in the crook of my arm and her arm across my torso. I momentarily thought about shifting her away, but before I could act, she sighed in contentment and said the one word I didn't even know I had longed to hear. "Jasper."

My breath caught in my throat and before I could think, I pulled her body closer to me. This only caused her to wiggle further into me and sigh again. My dead heart swelled with love for the woman in my arms. I knew now that I wanted her more than anything else in this world. Peter was right and I knew I couldn't deny my feelings anymore, and to be honest, I didn't want to. I knew then that I was falling in love with Isabella Swan.

And that terrified me.

I didn't know how long I had watched her sleep. It could have been minutes or it could have been hours but her heart rate and breathing began to pick up lettin' me know that my Bella was wakin' up. She stirred before stretching and let out a contented sigh. "Mornin' Darlin'," I drawled before leaning down to place a kiss on her forehead.

She looked up at me and smiled. "You stayed."

"I told you I would. Did ya know you snore?"

Her brow furrowed. "I do not."

"You do. You also talk in your sleep."

"So I've been told," she mumbled. She finally let me go and slid out from under the covers, her tiny tank top rising well above her belly button. It took all of my strength to not throw her down on the bed and claim her.

"Hey Bella?"

She stopped right before the door to the master bathroom and turned to face me. "Yeah?"

"Do you want to go back to my place today?"

She froze. "Um… sure," she said with a slow, hesitant nod of her head. "Just let me get a shower and something to eat. Um, do you think you can get a pot of coffee going?"

"Sure Darlin'."

She smiled before turning and going into the bathroom. When I heard the shower turn on, I left the bedroom and headed for the kitchen. The kitchen was small, but seemed to fit Bella to a 'T'. The black Mr. Coffee coffee pot was sitting on top of the granite countertops. The coffee was sitting right next to it.

I stared at the small black appliance. The last time I had made 'coffee' was 1863, back when we had to use chicory or peanuts because of those fuckin' Union blockades. And we didn't have a fuckin' Mr. Coffee.

It didn't take long to figure out how to work the coffeepot. I filled the pot with water and poured it into the reservoir and scooped some of the ground coffee into the holder. I pressed start and prayed for the best.

It wasn't that hard to make coffee.

BPOV

The shower felt amazing. All the stress from yesterday just seemed to wash away down the drain. Ray had just flat pissed me the fuck off. Does he seriously think he can treat me like that? I've been controlled enough in my life… Edward was controlling enough for a thousand lifetimes.

Edward.

I had said that I hated him. In hindsight, I didn't hate him but I still did want to see him suffer to some extent like I had. Okay, maybe not just like I had- I loved his family too much to watch Victoria destroy them, well, except for maybe Rosalie. That bitch has some issues. But I meant what I said when I called him a prissy-assed douchebag. What can I say? Jasper brings it out. Literally.

Jasper.

When it came to him, I was just confused. There was definitely a fair share of sexual attraction. Hell, that's been there the first day I saw him back in the Forks High cafeteria. But now things seemed different, especially after last night. It was weird to think that he knew exactly what I needed, when I needed it. What was weirder though was the ache in my chest that I had when he wasn't near. Even now, with him in the other room, I could feel it. It wasn't severe, but it was there. And I didn't understand it.

Did he feel it too?


What did it mean?

I'm pretty sure I knew what it meant… but it terrified me more than James or Victoria ever could. I was dangerously close to falling in love with Jasper Whitlock.

I turned off the hot water and grabbed the fluffy blue towel from the bar by the shower before wrapping it around my body. I stepped out of the shower and quickly dried off before putting on some coconut scented body lotion. I took the towel and quickly towel dried my hair, letting it fall wherever it did. I guess the one benefit to short hair was that I could get away with that shit.

When I was satisfied with my hair, I wrapped the towel back around my body and stepped into my room. The temperature difference sent a shiver down my spine and I found myself running around my room to quickly gather my clothes. I settled on a pair of medium wash 'destroyed' skinny jeans, a black button down cable knit cardigan, and a pair of black scrunchy boots that hit just above the ankle and had a two inch heel. Pleased with what I saw in the full length mirror, I made my way to the kitchen.

Jasper was sitting at the kitchen table and had a lazy smile on his handsome face. The scent of coffee certainly did not go missed; it smelt like freshly ground heaven.

"I don't know how you can drink that shit Bella," he said while chuckling and shaking his head.

I snorted as I walked over to the coffee pot. "First off, my blood type is Folgers. Second, you're one to talk; you drink blood. In comparison, I don't think my coffee is that bad." I added some French vanilla creamer and a touch of sugar to the coffee and, after giving it a quick stir, I took a sip.

Big mistake.

I slapped my free hand across my mouth, trying hard to not spit the coffee out, and I'm pretty sure my eyes bugged out of my head as I choked the bitter liquid down. Jasper was in complete hysterics and about to fall out of the chair from laughing so hard. "Jesus! I like my coffee strong; not lethal! How many scoops did you put in there?"

"Scoops?"

"Yeah, that little black scoop next to the coffeepot."

"Oh."

I giggled because it was just that fucking funny. "You know what, I'll just stop at Starbucks and call it a day."

He scratched the back of his head, "sorry 'bout your coffee Darlin'." He looked almost… bashful. It was absolutely adorable, and so human. I walked over, propped up on my tip toes and pecked his cheek.

"It's the thought that counts." I walked over and grabbed my purse and keys from the coffee table. "Ready?" I asked, twirling my keys around my finger and walking towards the door.

"Ready when you are, Darlin'."

Jasper put his hand on the small of my back and led me out the door. I may have swooned just a bit. We made our way down in amicable silence. When we got outside, the sun was shining brightly, even though it was relatively cool. Luckily for us, there was still a bit of shade in front of the parking lot.

"I guess I'll go get the car," I said before taking off towards the Camaro. When I got in, I re-adjusted the seat since Jasper had driven me home last night after the little incident at the gym. I put the car in reverse and pulled out of the parking spot, meeting Jasper right in front of the building.

It didn't take long for me to get to Starbucks to order a caramel macchiato. After I received my coffee, we were once again off to… wherever. Much to my relief, we avoided any discussion about last night's events.

"Can I ask you something?" Jasper asked somewhat hesitantly.

"You kinda just did."

"Funny. But I'm serious."

"Well, since you're serious and all, shoot."

"What happened to you and Jake?"

And there it was; the million dollar fucking question. I took a deep breath and tried to figure out the best way to put it. There was really only one way to put it. "I broke his heart, and then disappeared without a trace." I left it at that, he didn't need to know the specifics and, thankfully, he didn't pry.

Truth be told, I was ashamed.

"Do you keep in touch with anyone in Forks?"

"Seth Clearwater. Charlie was going to marry his mom Sue and he and I got really close. He's three years younger than me and I truly consider him a little brother. His mother couldn't really afford his tuition, and he really wanted to go to college, so I'm paying for his tuition that scholarships and grants won't cover with the life insurance money I got after…yeah. He doesn't know where I'm at or any specifics because of the whole pack telepathy but he knows I'm still alive and happy. His sister Leah's a piece of work though. We hate each other, and it works for us."

Jasper must have felt my somber mood because I was hit with a wave of happiness. I smiled and thanked him.

"So, Peter and Char are really excited to meet you."

I tensed; he hadn't mentioned them when he invited me over. "Should I be worried?" I asked nervously.

"No, you're safe with me Darlin'. I'd never let anyone hurt ya," he said with conviction.

"I trust you."

We drove for another twenty minutes before he had me turn onto an unmarked road which was obviously a very long private drive. At the top of the driveway, the huge black metal gate was already opening. "Told ya they were excited."

We pulled up to a Spanish-style stucco home that had a rust colored tiled roof and arches over the doors and windows. The yard was perfectly green and landscaped. It was stunning and not at all what I had expected. I said the only thing I could think of. "Wow." I put the car in park in front of the house and Jasper hopped out of the passenger side and rushed to my side to open my door. Apparently, chivalry wasn't dead.

I unbuckled my seatbelt and took his offered hand. "Thank you," I said with a sincere smile.

"C'mon, there's more to see," he said, pulling me towards the house. The house was big. Not Cullen big but big. I still didn't see the need for such an extravagant home, but I wasn't going to say anything. Jasper led me across the tiled walkway, stopping to pick a red rose from one of the rose bushes. He quickly stripped the flower of thorns before holding it out to me. I took the rose and held it up to my nose, breathing in the sweet scent. "A beautiful rose for a beautiful girl," he said with a crooked smile; one of them daze-inducing, panty-wetting, swoon-worthy smiles. Yeah, I think all of the above may have happened… I know at least one did and, judging by the darker color of Jasper's eyes, he knew it too.

When we got to the door, he opened it and led me through, never once taking his hand off the small of my back. We stepped through the door into the foyer. From what I could see, the house was just as amazing inside as it was on the out. My heels clacked on the hardwood floors as we walked further into the house.

From what I assumed was the living room, came a pastier version of Josh Lucas from his role in 'Sweet Home Alabama'. He had short, dirty blonde hair, twinkling red eyes, and one hell of a sexy swagger.

I could so get used to hanging around all this man candy.

The Josh Lucas look-alike, whom I'm assuming was Peter, stopped in front of me and stared for a moment, looking me up and down before smirking.

Was he checking me out?

"Bella, this is my brother Peter. Peter, this is Bella."

Peter took my hand and looked right into my eyes as he took my hand and brought it to his lips. "Enchanté," he said seductively. And for a moment, just a moment, I forgot about everything in that room other than Peter and his enchanting crimson eyes.

Son of a bitch! I was just dazzled!

Peter chuckled before pulling away. I crossed my arms and pouted. "Stupid dazzling vampires," I mumbled, knowing full well that they heard me. It just caused Peter to chuckle again.

"It's not like Jasper to bring home take-out," he said with an eerie calm. I'm pretty sure I lost a shit ton of color and started to look as pale as the vampires in the room. This just caused Peter to guffaw loudly and Jasper hissed disapprovingly.

"You… should have… seen… your face!" Peter ground out, still laughing his ass off.

Jasper glared at Peter and growled. It was the first time I had seen him this murderous since the James incident. I'll admit, it was a little scary… but he also looked pretty damn fuckable. He glanced at me, eyebrow raised, before turning the mega stink-eye back onto Peter. "What the fuck are you tryin' to pull?"

"Oh don't get your panties in a knot Major; I was just breakin' the ice." He took a step closer to me, grinning, with an extended hand. When I looked up to Jasper to see if it was safe, he nodded his head to let me know that it was. I tentatively took his hand. "Peter Whitlock ma'am. I didn't frighten ya now did I?"

"Just remember Peter, fire and ice run through these veins and if you ever pull that shit again, I won't hesitate to light your ass on fire," I said sweetly, smiling and batting my eyelashes. It was Peter's turn to look remotely scared and Jasper started busting up.

Peter composed himself before putting his arm around my shoulder and pulling me away from Jasper, who in turn growled again. "Kitten, you and I are gonna be like peas and carrots. C'mon, I think I hear my wife pullin' up." He started leading me through the house. When I looked back at Jasper, he was standing in the same exact place, wide-eyed and completely speechless.

"You just gonna stand there Major or you comin' with us?" Peter took a deep breath before saying, "by the way Kitten, you smell delicious." He grabbed my ass and gave it a firm squeeze. And just what did I do? I giggled, I fucking giggled.

"PETER!" Jasper roared before he was by my side in an instant and I was back in his arms.

It was going to be an interesting Sunday.

Tuesday...erm... Wednesday Teaser

This was honestly supposed to be up yesterday. Unfortunately, I've been without power and internet for over thirty hours now thanks to some badass windstorm that killed eleven power poles. Now I'm rentin' me a nice humongous generator and it is as loud as loud can be. Anyway without any more delay, the teaser for chapter 6 of The Art of Redemption.

PPOV

Jasper was a fuckin’ moron. A moron who didn’t know what the hell he had, even if it was starin’ him right in the face. How could he not see how perfect Kitten was for him? How could he not see that she was his true mate? In all my years, I ain’t ever seen the Major take to a human like he had Bella Swan. Hell, I ain’t ever seen him take to a human… unless he was eatin’ ‘em.

But Kitten was different. She would be his rock and not take any of his shit. She would help him reclaim who he was while lettin’ the Major shine through. She was just like him too… except she had a pussy. And I knew he could feel the pull to her, he just wouldn’t acknowledge it.

Char and I had known all along that Alice wasn’t his mate. The Major’s mate would have to be strong and be able to put up with his shit without takin’ any of it. Not turn him into some overeager Bambi-munchin’ lapdog that would do as he was told, when he was told to do it.

So here I was keys in hand and ready to go talk some sense into him. Just as I was about to open the door, my gorgeous wife wrapped her arms around my body. “Where do ya think you’re goin’ Sug?” she purred seductively.

He’s gonna fuckin’ owe me.

God help me, I really didn’t want to say this. “The Major needs me Char.”

I heard her sigh before she pulled away and I turned to face her. “Make him understand Peter. He’s finally found her… don’t let him fuck it up and lose her,” she said with a smile. She didn’t have to say it, but I knew Char was excited to meet her new sister. Even without meeting her, she was attached to her and it was going to be hard to keep her away for much longer. If I was bein’ honest, I was pretty sure she already had Kitten’s room done.

After a less than chaste kiss with the wifey, I jumped in the Tahoe and was on the way to Kitten’s apartment building to straighten out the mess the Major had caused. Or, at least, preventin’ said mess from happening.
It didn’t take long to get to her apartment building. From what I could tell, she lived in a nice area. It wasn’t cheap building but it suit her just fine. I parked the Tahoe next to a new black Camaro. When I got out of the truck, I could smell both Jasper and Kitten near the car. I could only assume it was hers.

She’s got taste. I’ll give her that.

Something told me to go to the back of the building. So that’s where I went. My ‘gift’ had never steered me wrong before so I sure as fuck wasn’t gonna question it now. I had always been, even when I was human, able to see what others couldn’t. Now, I couldn’t see the future like the pocket pixie but most of the time… I just knew shit. And it’s because of that that I was currently standing below Kitten’s balcony trying to sort out this mess and make the Major see the truth.

I leapt up and landed on the balcony that Jasper had been frequenting every night for the last week or so. Inside, I could hear Kitten’s steady breathin’ and heartbeat indicating that she was fast asleep.
“What the fuck do you want?” Jasper hissed from inside the apartment.

“To talk,” I said as I jiggled the handle to the French door. The door was unlocked so it opened easily and I stepped through the sheer green curtain and into her room. Her room was clean with just enough disarray to make it have a homey feel to it with pictures on every free surface.

Bella’s delicate, slightly tropical scent permeated the air. But instead of wanting to drain her dry, I wanted to protect her. Protect her from the evils of the world… protect her from heartache. Jasper snorted.

“That happens a lot around her. That sudden urge to protect her,” he said quietly as he looked at the sleeping girl in his arms. He had his right arm around her body while she was snuggled against his body, her arms clinging to him for dear life. She fit against him perfectly. I smiled.

“What’s so amusin’?”

“You.”

“What the fuck you talkin’ ‘bout?”

“It’s just…fuck man, I’ve never seen you this comfy with a human. You’re either ignoring ‘em or eatin’ ‘em. Not snugglin’ up with ‘em.”

“I ain’t snugglin’. And Bella’s… different.”

“No shit she’s different. Jesus, can’t you see what’s right in front of you?” I walked over and sat down on the end of the bed. When I put my hand on her covered foot, Jasper growled in warning.

“Don’t touch her,” he hissed and it was pretty fuckin’ clear that the Major was protectin’ his little lady.

I didn’t move my hand. Instead, I just smiled. “See, that shit right there, that’s what I’m talkin’ about. You’re protectin’ her for a reason Major.” His jaw was clenched and his eyes were fixated on the hand I had on Bella’s foot. He growled again and I removed my hand. I really didn’t want to lose it, that shit hurts.

“Why?”

“It’s simple. She belongs to you just as much as you belong to her. Major, she’s your mate. And whether you realize it or not, you already love her, just like she already loves you.”

I could see that he was warring with himself. A part of him was happy that he had finally found her. The other part was confused as all get out. He furrowed his brows and slowly shook his head no. “She can’t be my mate Peter. I tried to attack her four years ago. It’s not possible.”

Fic-rec Friday is finally back!

I know, I know. It's been forever since I've done a fic-rec Friday but I've been so busy! This week's fic comes from both ff.net and twiwrite.net and is one of my absolute favorite pairings...Carlisle/Bella. I've decided to do a little somethin' different with my fic-recs. When we get to the review portion, I'm breaking it up into actual story line and then writing style to, hopefully, give you a better representation and to make your decision a little easier on whether you want to read it or not. So let's get at it.

Carlisle Pays While Bella Preys by andromida1964

Pairing: Carlisle/Bella

Rating: MA for violence and sexual content

Summary: After the abrupt departure of the Cullens in New Moon, Bella grows up and moves on with her life. Unfortunately for the Cullens, she has grown up into this evil scientist hellbent on revenge. Due to Carlisle being the patriarch of the Cullen clan, she blames him for their leaving her and seeks her revenge on him first. Eventually, Bella falls in love with Carlisle after turning him human, once again, and into the famous actor, Peter Facinelli. Will she send him back to his coven or try her damndest to keep him for herself? How about if his life was on the line?

Review: To be perfectly honest, I didn't know if I was going to be able to get into this story because I really didn't like the torturing that Bella did to poor Carlisle. But, I decided to give it a chance and I'm so glad I did. After Bella finally falls in love with Carlisle, after turning him human, the story really blossoms. After Carlisle wakes up from getting turned back into a human, she convinces him that they were married and he was in a coma for three months and that his names is Peter Facinelli (that part I wasn't thrilled with). Eventually, Esme comes looking for him and is on the hunt for some Bella blood. As far as actually storyline goes, I would give it 5 stars since it has a tone of potential and is actually a good read once you get passed some errors.

As far as the writing style goes...it's good. If you have read her previous stories, you can definitely tell that she has improved but could still use a good beta...or a better one if she has one. I'm also not completely thrilled with her turning Jasper into a rapist...from a big J/B fan; that's just not cool. I also think that she could really use more background information on her characters as it is a  little lacklustre. For writing style, I would give her 2.75 stars.

A quick introduction to...

...the big four-legged things that give me the 'cowgirl' part of my name. That's right...I'm finally getting around to introducin' the horses. So, without further ado, I give you...

Champagne Party Bug (aka: Champ, Jackass, Asshole, Handsome...). He just turned three this year and is a huge pain in my ass. If you follow me on twitter, you'll know that I just recently fell off of one of my horses. Well, this is who I fell off of and let me tell you, it's no small drop. He is a BIG boy and my ass still hurts. I'm currently training for huntseat and western pleasure with hopes of hittin' the show ring with him next year. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that that goal comes to fruition.

PQR's Color Mia Rebel (aka Mia, Pumpkin, or Mia Stella (Italian for my star)). Mia is only a year old and I've owned her since she was still in the womb since I own her momma (below). Right now, she's just kinda hangin' out and growing up a little more before I can really do anything with her. She may be tiny, but she's probably got the biggest personality out of all three horses. If anyone is interested, she is currently being offered for sale.  

Kaydes Song (aka Kayde, Princess, Kaydence, and Big Momma). Kayde's the oldest of the bunch at the ripe old age of eleven. She is Mia's dam and currently seven months pregnant with Champ's first foal which is due in March. I've had her since she was four and she has taught me so much. She was the first horse that I've trained how to ride and I've definetely learned what to do as well as my fair share of what not to do. Through all the shit though, she's been more than a willing partner...most of the time.

Well, that's everyone...until March anyway. I just thought I'd give y'all a little insight to my life and what makes me tick apart from reading and writing TwiFics.

Until next time...

Amber

The Art of Redemption: Chapter 5

The Art of Redemption

Chapter 5

JPOV

"I ended up burying my mom and step-dad three weeks later. It wasn't hard to tell it was Victoria; they were killed the same way Charlie was. Every single bone in their bodies were shattered and no blood."

Bella had started to cry, and that was just somethin' I didn't want to see her do. Someone so special shouldn't be so sad. I pulled her up into my lap and wrapped my arms around her as I started rocking back and forth, trying my best to comfort the delicate girl in my arms. "She's still out there; somewhere. That's why I'm living everyday like it's my last. I never know when it will actually be my last."

Over my pile of ashes! She is MINE!

Her tears were starting to soak through my shirt, but I didn't give a fuck. "I'm sorry Darlin'. We should have been there. This is my entire fault…" I whispered.

"Please don't say that. My life worked out the way it was supposed to."

"But if I wasn't so weak, you're parents would still be alive. You'd be happy."

Her emotions shifted from sorrow to determination in the blink of an eye. "You aren't weak. If you were weak, would I be here sitting on your lap? If you were weak, could I do this?"

She leaned over and, just as she was about to kiss my cheek, I turned my head so my lips would meet hers. I felt her surprise as she pulled back quickly and gasped.

SHIT! Way to go fucker… way to fuckin' go.

"Shit, Bella I'm sorry I-" but Bella had cut me off before I could finish by bringing her lips to mine once more. Her warm, soft lips moved against mine in perfect synchronization.

'MINE!' the beast within roared. He wanted Bella and I had to try my hardest to not give in to him. But it was proving difficult, especially when I felt her lust spike and could smell her arousal.

'Fuck her!' he roared again.

I was too caught up in Bella to hear someone open the door. "Bellsy! We're ho-oh damn! Kevin, I think we should come back… my roomie's a bit busy!" the person yelled.

"What were you saying about being weak?" Bella asked as she pulled away from our kiss. She just looked at me and smiled brightly; a smile that coulda warmed my cold dead heart. She leaned forward and once again captured my lips in a chaste kiss before pulling away and standing up from the couch. "It's safe!" she yelled, presumably to her roommate.

He poked his head in. "We didn't interrupt did we?"

"Just get in here, there's someone I want you to meet."

"Hold on woman! Don't get your panties in a knot!"

Bella smiled and I could feel her mirth and the love she had for whoever was at the door. It was a complete one-eighty from earlier when she was telling me about what had happened in the last four years. Then, when I had felt the onslaught of her emotions, it was everything from her hate and resentment to her despair. After hearing her story, I only felt worse. She was left completely unprotected (I'm not counting pups as protection) and it was all my fuckin' fault!

I told Edward leaving Bella was a bad idea, I would have much rather left the family than leave her unprotected. Victoria was a woman scorned and hell bent on revenge. Regardless, Edward was able to convince the family, despite my protest, that leaving was best.

I should have gone back. I should have protected her.

But I didn't. I didn't because Alice had begged and pleaded with me to stay… to not hurt her best friend. Apparently she had seen my killin' Bella if I had gone back.

"Jasper, I'd like you to meet my roommate and best friend, Drew Carter. Drew, this is Jasper Whitlock; Edward's… brother," she introduced us, saying the last part very hesitantly.

"So you brother is the asshole that broke my Belly Bean's heart. I swear to God, if I ever see him, he has one serious ass-kicking coming his way," he said with disdain. Had Edward been human, I didn't doubt for one minute that Drew could kick Edward's ass. Drew stood about six foot two and was more muscular than Edward with short blonde hair and steel gray eyes.

"Take a number D, I get him first," Bella growled. Fuckin' growled…and it was hot as fuck!

"Easy Baby B," he chuckled.

She smiled. "And this cute little red head here is Drew's boyfriend Kevin."

I extended my hand to the guys. Their flinches at the coldness of my skin did not go unnoticed.

"Hey B, we need to start getting ready for work," Drew said, looking directly at Bella almost pleadingly. I could feel the huge amount of brotherly love he had for her, it almost rivaled Emmett's. But I could also feel his protectiveness of her and the distrust he held for me.

"Oh um, okay. Sure. Jasper, Kevin, feel free to watch whatever you want on TV."

Bella and Drew both went into separate rooms, but it didn't take long for Drew to walk into Bella's with a change of clothes. I sat down on the couch and flipped on the TV to some sports channel. Kevin sat down in the recliner that was to the right of the couch. I could feel his apprehension about being so close to me. It was a completely natural reaction, people were apprehensive around my kind. Everyone except for Bella.

"So how long have you known Bella?" I asked Kevin, trying to make him feel more at ease.

"About a year; we met in a history class."

"Did she introduce you to Drew?"

"Yes."

He was still too apprehensive so I decided to let it go. I could feel the concern coming from Drew and Bella's growing frustration.

"So what's going on with you and Hot Cowboy?"

"Jasper. His name is Jasper."

"I like Hot Cowboy better; doesn't sound so old. But, you didn't answer the question."

"Nothing is going on."

"It sure as hell didn't look like it was nothing B."

"We're just friends. Can't you just trust me?"

"I do trust you. It's him I don't trust. Look, B, I just don't want to see you hurt."

"I know D. I love you."

"I love you too kid. Now, get your ass in them jeans so we can get going." I could hear the sound of his hand hitting flesh and I tried to stifle the growl.

"You just wanna see my ass in those jeans don't you?"

"Of course."

There was a long pause before Bella sighed.

"You would tell me if you fell in love, right?"

"Of course I would, B. You would tell me wouldn't you?"

"I don't fall in love, Drew. I fall in lust. That's it."

My heart broke for her. She had been broken so badly by Edward and Jake that she didn't even seem to believe in love anymore.

They didn't come out for another twenty minutes but man was the wait worth it. Bella was in a pair of tight, dark was jeans with a pair of black strappy heels. Her top was blood red and hugged her curves in all the right places.

"Oh! I forgot my contacts!" she exclaimed, whipping around and running back to her room. The shirt was draped low in the back and had a panel in the mid back to keep it closed. But what caught my eye the most was the tattoo on her right shoulder blade.

In elegant script was the phrase: La vendetta è un atto di passione; la vendetta di giustizia. Le ferite sono vendicó; i crimini sono vendicati*. Under the script was a heart with the names of her parents and, presumably, the date they were killed by Victoria.

BPOV

I knew that Drew loved me and was just looking out for me but I swear he was getting on my last nerve! He didn't know about both of my failed relationships and, to be honest, I didn't know if I ever wanted him to.

Did I want love? Yes, of course I did. What girl doesn't? But after having my heart ripped out not once but twice, I was terrified of love. Sure, one night stands with random strangers and nights with the trusty Rabbit were physically satisfying, but they were emotionally draining. Did I want to tell Drew that I had feelings for Jasper? Yes. But for some reason, and it could quite possibly be the fact that Jasper could hear me, I didn't.

From the moment I saw him outside of Vamped… I felt it. I felt that pull towards him. It felt as though there was a thick elastic band around the two of us and, as one person got further and further away, the tension became stronger; like it was trying to pull us back together.

But what did it mean?

Once I reached the bathroom that was off the master bedroom, I put in my crimson contacts and took in my final appearance. My eye makeup was smoky and gray and paired with some fuckhot red lips. I had straightened my hair and just a few wisps were turned out. I sighed. I couldn't wait for my hair to grow back. Drew had suggested that I cut it short so I did. Big mistake; there were only so many things I could do with it.

I miss my long hair.

After I put my contacts in and I was relatively satisfied with my look, I went back out to the living room. Drew and Kevin were already waiting by the front door and Jasper was still sitting on the couch. "I'm starting to think I should get a pair of those, everyone else is. I don't get it B, vampires don't even exist!"

"And how do you know that?" I countered. From the corner of my eye, I could see Jasper smirk.

"Well have you ever seen one?"

"Have you?" I said with a raised eyebrow.

"Well…no. But they don't exist!"

I looked at Jasper and shook my head, trying my damndest to not chuckle. I turned my attention back to Drew, "and how can you be so sure? What do you think Jasper?"

He smirked again. "Couldn't tell ya."

We walked down to the parking lot and Drew turned towards his car. "I'm taking my car tonight B, I'm going back to Kevin's after work," he said and smiled apologetically.

I shrugged my shoulders. "No problem. That just means I get to take mine, I don't get to take her out too often anymore," I said with a sigh. I missed driving my car. "Hey Drew?"

"Yeah B?"

"I'll race ya. Twenty to the winner?"

"You're on little girl." Drew and Kevin ran to Drew's red 2007 Ford Mustang.

I grabbed Jasper's hand and pulled him towards the car. "Come on, I'm not losing!"

I ran, with Jasper easily keeping up with me, to the shiny black 2010 Chevy Camaro. That car was my whole reason for existence now. I had just recently bought it with some of the insurance money that I got after my parents' untimely murder and after my ancient Chevy truck finally bit the dust. To be honest, I was just surprised that the hunk of scrap metal made it all the way down here. I pulled the keys out of my purse and hit the unlock button earning a resounding beep from the car.

"This is your car?" Jasper asked incredulously.

"Yep, this is my car," I said, biting my lip. I opened the door and slid into the sleek interior, reveling in the feel of the supple black leather seat around my body. I slipped the key into the ignition and turned it, listening to my baby roar to life.

It was a beautiful sound.

I instinctively rolled down the windows before buckling my seatbelt. Jasper slid in and buckled up, as if he actually needed it, before I backed out of the parking space. I turned left on to the busy one-way street in front of my apartment building, noticing that Drew was already two car lengths in front of me.

It really didn't take long to get to the club since it was only a few blocks away…but it was the principle. I had to beat Drew. And I did, by about thirty seconds. As Drew pulled up beside my Camaro, which was parked in the employees' lot behind the club, I just smiled…and flipped him the bird. He happily returned the gesture. "You owe me twenty," I said, sticking my hand out with my palm facing up.

"I want a rematch," he stated defiantly.

Jasper just quietly chuckled. I looked at him, not knowing what was so funny. "He's embarrassed that you beat him," he whispered quietly in my ear. I shivered as his icy breath hit my skin.

I nodded my head slowly. "Name the time and place, D. Just know; I'll beat you every time. Come on now, let's go."

All four of us went inside, Jasper and I holding hands all the way into the club. Drew's glares toward Jasper's and my joined hands did not go unnoticed. I just looked at him through narrowed eyes and dared him to speak. He didn't say anything.

As we entered the club, the sound of You Shook Me All Night Long was blaring from the speakers.

"We finally get some decent music goin' in here. What? Is Molly not here to listen to that pop shit?" I asked as I walked into the club. The only people that were in here, aside from my boys and me, were Alex the club's DJ, and Tony the bouncer. I was assuming Ray was in his office.

"Haven't seen her yet," Alex yelled from behind a speaker.

I told Jasper and Kevin that they could have a seat at the bar while Drew and I set up for the night. I was expecting a pretty big crowd and poured me a shot of Jack to help 'prepare' for the night ahead. Jasper looked at me expectantly, waiting for an explanation. "What? I'm the one who has to dance around a damn pole. My friend Jack here will help me with the nerves. I could always invite José."

"Ya know, I was gonna ask ya 'bout that," he drawled out, "but I never got the opportunity."

"Oh, um… I took some classes. It's a great work out."

The front door slammed shut as our boss Ray walked in with Molly hot on his tail. "What did I tell you about boyfriends at work Swan?" he barked. Great, Ray was gonna be an asshole tonight.

"He's not my boyfriend Ray. He's just a friend."

"Either way, I don't want him hanging around my bar unless he's paying the tab. You're supposed to appear single. I don't really give a shit if you are or aren't. When you're here, you are."

I could tell that Jasper was getting angry about Ray's treatment towards me since his fists kept clenching and unclenching. That and his eyes were a darker burgundy, almost black. I placed my hand on his forearm and it seemed like he instantly calmed down. When he looked at me, I smiled at him reassuringly and pleaded with my eyes for him to come back to me, praying to God that it would work. Thankfully, it did.

"Oh, and Bella? You're on the floor again," he said before walking to the steps that led to his office. Molly was still hot on his tail and everything finally came into prospective; following him everywhere… staying late after work… coming in with him… getting my shifts…

That little whore!

Anger coursed through my veins and it was my turn to start clenching and unclenching my fist. "I don't think so," I ground out through clenched teeth. "You hired me as a bartender, not a waitress."

"You know the rules, Swan. Molly wants to tend bar again."

"You know what Ray? If Molly wants my job so fucking bad, she can fucking have it. I quit!" I screamed at my boss. The club suddenly grew eerily quiet. Vamped was a great place to work, truly it was. But the last few weeks, ever since Molly came along, things had been slowly going downhill. He gave her my job once already; it wouldn't happen again. I didn't need the money… I only worked here to pass the time.

Ray's mouth was opening and closing in rapid succession, much like a fish. He finally spoke up. "You can't quit. You're under contract for another six months!" he roared.

"What are you gonna do Ray? Sue me? I'm sure the Better Business Bureau, and your wife, would just love to find out that you're fucking Molly on the side." There was a series of collective gasps around the club. "That's right Ray, I know your dirty little secret. Let's see how little Molly can do on a crowded Saturday. Come on Jasper, let's go."

"What's the matter Bella, afraid of a little competition? Afraid I'll take your man too…Lord knows you can't keep one," Molly sneered from her spot on the steps.

At that point, I saw red. And I'm not just talking the color of anger. Oh no… I was talking about a dark crimson… the color of blood… the color of her blood. The only thing that kept me from lunging at her was the fact that Jasper had a secure hold around my waist. "Jasper, get me out of here before she starts spilling blood. Please," I begged quietly.

"Come on Darlin'," Jasper said as he gently tugged me toward the door.

"Oh look everyone, she's running away," Molly sneered again. My body stiffened in response to my anger. I really, really wanted to hurt her. I tried to wriggle out of Jasper's firm grasp to no avail, he had locked on and wasn't letting go. I felt the calm wash over me as I was dragged out of the club by Jasper.

Once outside, I took a deep breath to try to clear my head.

"You okay now, Darlin'?" Jasper asked as he tentatively let go of my waist. The second I took a step toward the club, his arms were around me once again. "I don't think so Darlin'."

I took another deep breath, relishing the calm that Jasper was sending my way. I grabbed for my keys and hit the unlock button. "I'm okay now."

"You sure 'bout that?"

Not trusting my voice, I just nodded my head slowly.

Jasper let go of me and we both turned towards my Camaro. Before reaching the car, I heard Drew shout, "Bella! Wait!" I sighed and turned around to see him and Kevin running towards us. "I'll follow you to the gym."

"No, Drew. Go back to work. I can handle this myself."

"There's no work to go back to Sweetie. I just quit. If my best friend ain't gonna work there, I'm sure as hell not gonna work there."

"But Drew, you-"

He cut me off before I could finish. "Don't say it, B. I was getting ready to turn in my two week notice anyway," he said as he wrapped his right arm around me.

"Thanks, D."

"Now let's go visit a punching bag about some anger management, shall we?"

Jasper and I took the Camaro to the gym while Drew and Kevin followed in the Stang. With me driving, it didn't take long to get to the gym. What would normally be a twenty-two minute drive turned into a twelve minute drive. Speed limit be damned.

"Bella, Darlin', do ya think this is a good idea?" Jasper asked as I pulled into the parking space in front of the gym.

I turned to look at him. "Would you rather I turn around and go back to the club? Right now, I don't even know if you could stop me. Trust me, I need this," I explained while exiting the car. Jasper followed me into the gym and waited in front of the girls' locker room while I changed into my work out clothes.

By the time I got out of the locker room, Drew was already dressed and ready to go. I took my place beside Jasper and laced my hand with his, instantly feeling calmer, to which I'm sure he was relieved. We walked hand in hand to the room off to the side of all of the equipment.

"You know, for the first time since joining this gym, I'm really thankful its open twenty four-seven."

"That's what I told the she-devil after I quit," Drew said, picking up the body shield and getting into position. I gave Jasper a quick kiss on the lips before slipping on my pink grappling gloves. Jasper chuckled.

"Don't laugh at my gloves."

"It's not your gloves I'm laughin' at darlin'. I just can't believe yer gonna do this, yer 'bout as scary as a paper bag."

I'll show you.

I snorted and turned on my heel before walking over to Drew who was already poised and ready to block whatever I threw at him.

For fifteen minutes straight, I kicked, I punched, and I just got angrier. I couldn't hear anyone around me… all I could concentrate on was the red haze that I knew was clouding my judgment. I just wanted to scream. Scream at the world… scream at myself… and most of all… I wanted to scream at Edward for ruining my life.

But it was no use.

So I did the only thing I could do. I fell to my knees and cried. I cried for Renee and Phil. I cried for Charlie. I cried for lost love. And most of all, I cried for me. The anger… despair… sorrow… it was all too much. It all came at me so fast that I couldn't handle it and I finally broke down. I finally just broke.

I heard the thump of Drew's body as he slumped down in front of me and felt his warm arms around me. I could also hear Jasper and Kevin rush over. But nothing registered.

Even with my friends around me, I was alone.

"Why don't you guys go? I'll make sure Miss Bella here gets home safe."

"No way in hell. I'm not leaving my best friend here in this state!"

"I give you my word as a gentleman; I will keep her safe Drew. I can feel how much you care for her. But right now, I'm the only one that can help her."

Drew sighed. "Just take care of her and keep her away from the Patron...and the Phish Food. You come back to Baby B, you hear me? Please don't shut us out baby."

I remember nodding my head, without even really knowing why, before I heard the shuffle of feet and a click of a door as it closed.

"On your feet Isabella."

I just shook my head. I wanted this pain to be over and I knew Jasper could help me. But he wasn't taking the pain away.

Why wasn't he taking it away?

"I said on your feet, Isabella. I will not repeat myself," he said again more forcefully; his sexy southern drawl nowhere to be heard.

There was just something about the tone of his voice that made me want to obey... like I had no choice other than to do what he said. So, under no conscious control of my own, I felt my feet move from under me as I stood up. "Please…" I whispered, hoping he would know what I meant.

"You're working through this on your own Isabella," he said. His voice was stern; it was as if he was trying to control me. And I knew I had no choice but to let him.

"I can't," I said weakly.

In a flash, he was in front of me. When I tried to take a step back, he grabbed both of my arms and held me in place. "You will listen to me, Isabella. That is a direct order and I don't take too kindly to people disobeying my orders. Do I make myself clear?"

I couldn't look at him; I was too afraid to. I wouldn't be able to stand seeing the disappointment in his crimson eyes. "Yes."

"Yes what?"

"Yes Sir."

"Good girl."

Jasper calmly walked over and picked up the body shield, which I'm sure was more for my benefit rather than his. "I want your best Isabella. You will not hold back on me. Is this understood?"

"Yes Sir."

He smirked and something stirred within me. "Good."

In one swift motion, I lifted my front leg, bent it at the knee, and delivered a powerful roundhouse kick which he easily blocked with the shield. I did it again and then jabbed with my right hand.

"Quit using yer anger against ya," he instructed. His voice was softer this time and the twang was back; I stopped and looked at him quizzically. "You're fighting fire with fire, Bella. If you're gonna fight with anger, channel it. Control the anger, don't let it control you."

Huh?

Jasper put the shield down and came over to me. "Let yer anger be yer power. Center it and use it to your advantage."

"I don't understand."

"Put all of that anger into the deliverin' blow. If you're gonna jab, let all your anger flow to yer fists."

Oh…

"How?"

"Focus, Bella." He picked up the shield again. "Come on, Little Girl, show me what ya got."

I stared at the shield that Jasper was holding and tried to focus.

Go to the hand. I tried to mentally will my anger.

It didn't work.

Please go to the hand.

Nothing.

Go to the fucking hand!

Zip, nada, zilch.

"Try to envision this shield as Edward, Bella."

I stared at the shield.

…

Nothing.

This was hopeless. I was getting frustrated and in turn, angrier.

"You're not good for me, Bella."

My head shot up at the sound of his voice and I spun around; but was met with nothing.

"I don't love you."

I spun around and my heart stopped. There he was disheveled bronze hair and all. I could feel the sudden rush of power flow to my hand and lashed out.

"… we're very easily distracted."

I kept lashing out as the sound of his voice…the memories fueled my fury.

"It will be as if I never existed."

"Why wasn't I good enough for you?" I screamed, delivering a powerful front kick to the shield.

"I loved you with everything I had!" I screamed again, throwing three jabs and a body shot in rapid succession.

I took a deep breath and finally said the words that needed to be said. "I fucking hate you, you prissy-assed douchebag!**" I felt all of my anger rush to my leg as I swung for a roundhouse kick. The kick was so powerful that Jasper was knocked off balance.

I stopped. Everything was gone. The anger… the guilt… the despair… everything.

For the first time in four years, I felt free.

And I was safe… in Jasper's arms.

The Art of Redemption Teaser: Chapter 5

Hello readers!

Here is the teaser for chapter 5 of The Art of Redemption...you do know what that means right? It means that the new chapter will be up in a few days!

Also, don't forget to follow me on twitter to know when teasers and updates are available: @cowgirl_amber


***

They didn’t come out for another twenty minutes but man was the wait worth it. Bella was in a pair of tight, dark was jeans with a pair of black strappy heels. Her top was blood red and hugged her curves in all the right places.

“Oh! I forgot my contacts!” she exclaimed while whipping around and running to her room. The shirt was draped low in the back and had a panel in the mid back to keep it closed. But what caught my eye the most was the tattoo on her right shoulder blade.

La vendetta è un atto di passione; la vendetta di giustizia. Le ferite sono revenged; i crimini sono vendicati*. Under the elegant script was a heart with the names of her parents and, presumably, the date they were killed by Victoria.

BPOV

I knew that Drew loved me and was just looking out for me but I swear, he was getting on my last nerve! He didn’t know about both of my failed relationships and, to be honest, I didn’t know if I ever wanted him to.

Did I want love? Yes, of course I did. What girl doesn’t? But after having my heart ripped out not once but twice, I was terrified of love. Sure, one night stands with random strangers and nights with the trusty rabbit were physically satisfying, they were emotionally draining. Did I want to tell Drew that I had feelings for Jasper? Yes. But for some reason, and it could quite possibly be the fact that he could hear me, I didn’t.

Once I reached the bathroom, I put in my crimson contacts and took in my final appearance. My eye makeup was smoky and gray and paired with some fuckhot red lips. I had straightened my hair and just a few wisps were turned out. I sighed. I couldn’t wait for my hair to grow back. Drew had suggested that I cut it short so I did. Big mistake; there were only so many things I could do with it.

I miss my long hair.

After my contacts were in and I was relatively satisfied with my looks, I went back out to the living room.

Drew and Kevin were already waiting by the front door. “I’m starting to think I should get a pair of those, everyone else is. I don’t get it B, vampires don’t even exist!”

“And how do you know that?” I countered. From the corner of my eye, I could see Jasper smirk.
“Well have you ever seen one?”

“Have you?” I said with a raised eyebrow.

“Well…no. But they don’t exist!”

I looked at Jasper and shook my head, trying my damndest to not chuckle. I turned my attention back to Drew, “and how could you be so sure? What do you think Jasper?”

He smirked again. “Couldn’t tell ya.”

We walked down to the parking lot and Drew turned towards his car. “I’m taking my car tonight B, I’m going back to Kevin’s after work,” he said and smiled apologetically.

I shrugged my shoulders. “No problem. That just means I get to take mine, I don’t get to taker her out to often anymore,” I said with a sigh. I missed driving my car. “Hey Drew?”

“Yea B?”

“I’ll race ya.”

“You’re on little girl.”

I grabbed Jasper’s hand and pulled him towards the car, “come on, I’m not losing!”

***

There ya have it folks, the unedited teaser for chapter 5. See ya in a few days for the new chapter!

Amber