Jacob's New Moon - Complete

This is NM from Jacob's pov (and a little from Billy). My goal is to stay true to Stephenie's story so there will be no major different from her plot to mine. I also should say that all conversations where Bella is present will be directly quoted from SM (or summarized). I am not trying to change the story but simply add Jacob's side of the story. So lets get started.

(Chapter titles will line up with NM's titles as much as possible.)

Jacob's NM

Disclaimer - All character belong to Stephenie Meyers. This is New Moon as she wrote it, simply from Jacob's POV, so any conversation that Bella is present for will be directly quoted from the book. No copy write infringement is intended.

Chapter 1 - CHEATER

Saturdays were the best, I could do anything that I wanted to do, except for sleep in. Dad always needed my help getting into his clothes and starting the day. I don't mind, he was always real patient with me and would usually sit in his bed and read until I woke up and got him ready. I left the warm comfort of my sheets and raised my arms above my head to stretch. There was a loud crack as I stretched my back and it felt great. I grabbed a random pair of jeans and shirt and went to my dad's room. After getting him out of bed, I left him to use the restroom and brush his teeth. He was a very strong man and could lift himself from his chair and back again when needed.

I walked into the kitchen and got two bowls of cereal, one for myself and one for dad, poured them with shredded wheat, and added milk. I used to love frosted flakes but with dad's diabetes it was just easier if we both ate the same foods and the sugary cereals had to go.

Dad got two spoons out of the drawer and rolled over to the table. I carried the bowls and sat one down in front of him and I sat in the chair across the table from him.

“So Jacob, what will you be doing today?” Billy asked.
“I don't know, probably just work on the Rabbit. Why did you need something?”
“Nope. However your room is a disaster you should probably clean that up.” I took a deep sigh and realized he was right. I was not even sure if the clothes I wore were clean or dirty, the piles had sort of blended together into a disastrous mess.

We sat in comfortable silence and finished our cereal and then dad rolled into the living room, turning on the TV while I poured myself another bowl of cereal. After finishing I went to the sink washed mine and Dad's bowl before heading to my room. I decided it was time to do laundry. I gathered all my clothes from my room and stopped by my Dad's to gather his as well. Dad and I had a good system, I would put it in the wash and then transfer it over the dryer. Dad would take it out, fold it, and put it away. We were a good team.

Three loads later I was sitting on the couch, waiting for the last one to finish in the wash desperate to go to the the garage where I really wanted to be. When I heard a sound that I knew I would never forget. It was loud as it huffed and puffed and I knew it was the truck that belonged to Bella Swan. I could remember working on the engine of that truck and there would never be another sound like it. Instantly I thought something was wrong with it and Charlie had brought it over for repairs. I peaked out the window and saw only Bella.

I was so excited to know that Bella had come here, until I saw Bella's face through the window. She looked absolutely awful. She was so skinny that I felt I could see her bones through her clothes, her face was extremely white except for the large dark circles under each eye. I had heard Billy talking to Charlie and so I knew that Bella was not doing well but I had no idea how bad it was until I saw her.

Despite her sad appearance I was still excited that she came. I jumped from the couch and half ran out the door, trying to act calmly. I had a huge crush on Bella and while I guessed that my dad already knew I didn't exactly want to make it so obvious with him in the same room. But despite my attempts I couldn't get the silly smile off, it was always plastered to my face any time Bella's name came up. For her to actually be right outside my front door, it was too much for me to handle and I had to move quickly. I stepped outside and hoped off the porch towards her truck when Bella's eyes finally looked up at my.

“Bella!” I shouted, I just could not contain my excitement.
“Hey, Jacob!” Bella said with a hint of excitement and a weak smile. Though it was small I could tell it was real.
“You grew again!” she said amazed.
“Six five” I answered, I couldn't help but be proud of my size. Though it was embarrassing to be so uncoordinated, it just felt like my body was growing so fast I barely could keep up with myself.
“Is it ever going to stop? You're huge.” Bella shook her head like she could not believe it.
“Still a beanpole, though” Growing so fast I just couldn't put on the weight like my friends and it made me feel skinny and awkward.

Suddenly I realized that it was raining and she would probably like to come inside. “Come inside! You're getting all wet.”

I turned around and she followed me towards the house. My long hair matted to my face from the rain so I reached for the band in my pocket and pulled it back without thinking, it was simply a habit. I opened the door and ducked as I entered the house. I remembered the first time I hit my head on the door frame, I was late for school and ran out the door, I couldn't believe that I had grown that tall.

“Hey, Dad” I called. “Look who stopped by.”

I noticed that the TV had been turned off and a book was in his hand. Was he watching us from the window? I swear him and Charlie gossip more than any grown men should, but I never really thought he would spy on me. All of a sudden I was extremely nervous that he would embarrass me. He sat the book in his lap and wheeled himself towards us, reaching out to take Bella's hand.

“Well, what do you know! It's good to see you, Bella. What brings you out here? Everything okay with Charlie?”

One of the few times that I was glad to have my dad in the room. He was able to ask these questions without it coming across as desperate or rude. I wanted to know the answer to those questions so badly but I didn't have the courage to ask her.

“Yes, absolutely. I just wanted to see Jacob – I haven't seen him in forever.”

I did not think I could be happier. Bella was standing in my house and now to know that it had nothing to do with her father or my father, but rather it was to see ME! The smile that was plastered to my face stretched to a whole new level. I wanted to be embarrassed but I was too happy to care.

“Can you stay for dinner?” Billy asked.
“No, I've got to feed Charlie, you know.”
“I'll call him now,” Billy suggested. “He's always invited.”
“It's not like you'll never see me again.” She promised. “I'll be back again soon – so much you'll get sick of me.” Bella said with a nervous laugh. I do not think she had any idea that it was not possible for me to get sick of her, but it might be interesting to see what she came up with to try and make that a reality.

Billy gave me a quick wink, so quick that I almost missed it and I know there was no way that Bella saw it. I knew that dad and I were real close, but I never in my dreams would have thought of him as my wing man. But there was something different, I quickly realized that this was not just for me, but also for his best friend. Charlie has been beside himself with worry over Bella and if Bella spending time with me would help Charlie then I knew my dad would help in any way he could.

Billy chuckled in response. “Okay, maybe next time.”

This was getting awkward quickly so I knew I had to do something. “So, Bella, what do you want to do?” It had been so long since my sisters lived here so I wasn't sure what kind of girl stuff we had available, and I had no idea what Bella might find interesting.

“Whatever. What were you doing before I interrupted?”

I really did not want to bore her with car stuff, and took a second to rack my brain to think of anything else more interesting. Coming up blank, I decided to just go with the truth. “I was just heading out to work on my car, but we can do something else. . .”
“No, that's perfect” Bella interrupted “I'd love to see your car.”
I couldn't believe that Bella would really want to see my car. She just looks too tiny to be interested in cars and such. “Okay, it's out back, in the garage.”

Was it just my imagination or did she seem to get more excited about that? It was like she wanted to be alone and isolated. We walked over to the garage in a comfortable silence. Bella walked in and looked the place over. I know to most people it wasn't much, but I loved this garage it was “my domain” and made me feel useful. Cars made sense to me there was a predictable rhythm to the engine and the parts worked together in a way that I understood. The oil and dirt that surrounded everything could be smelt at any time, it was fantastic.

“What kind of Volkswagen is that?” Bella asked.
“It's an old Rabbit – 1986, a classic.”
“How's it going?”
“Almost finished.”

Suddenly I remembered the last time I saw Bella was at prom when my dad had bribed me with car parts and money to go and speak with her. I wondered if she remembered why I was there, it was so embarrassing but I wanted her to know that it was really all my dad's doing and I had nothing to do with that. “My dad made good on his promise last spring.”
“Ah”

Well that was awkward and at first I could not think of why she was so resistant. Then I remembered that she was at prom with Edward Cullen and clearly his memory was painful. I made a promise to myself to try and not say anything that would bring him into the conversation. I wanted to say something, but I didn't know what would break the promise I had just made to myself so I remained quiet.

“Jacob, what do you know about motorcycles?” Bella asked.
Well that seemed to come out of no where. “Some. My friend Embry has a dirt bike. We work on it together sometimes. Why?” I just could not figure out how we went from prom to motorcycles.
“Well. . .” Bella seemed to struggle with her words, not knowing what to say. “I recently acquired a couple of bikes, and they're not in the greatest condition. I wonder if you could get them running?

My goodness Bella is so adorable when she is nervous and I wanted to put her at ease. “Cool.” That was an understatement. I was so freaking excited. This was my chance to actually show skills that I am really good at to a girl that I was crazy about. How did I get so lucky? However, I did not want to seem overly confident. “I'll give it a try.”

Bella lifted her finger as to warn me. “The thing is, Charlie doesn't approve of motorcycles. Honestly, he'd probably bust a vein in his forehead if he knew about this. So you can't tell Billy.”
I didn't even have to think twice, this was an easy decision. “Sure, sure.” I smiled. “I understand.”
“I'll pay you,” Bella continued.

“No. I want to help. You can't pay me.” Was she crazy? She was volunteering to spend time with me and she wants to pay me, absolutely not, I couldn't help but be a little offended. I didn't want to be some “professional employee” that she paid to work on her motorcycles, I wanted to be her friend and maybe more if I was lucky.

“Well. . . how about a trade, then? I only need one bike – and I'll need lessons, too. So how about this? I'll give you the other bike, and then you can teach me.”
I swear this girl keeps getting better and better. I was so excited. “Swee-eet” I said with two syllables. Geez, I sound like I am in junior high, I hope that Bella didn't notice.

“Wait a sec – are you legal yet? When is your birthday?
Well crap it seems that she noticed. “You missed it, I'm sixteen.” I said with a teasing smile.

“Not that your age ever stopped you before,” she muttered. “Sorry about your birthday.”
“Don't worry about it. I missed yours. What are you, forty?”
Bella sniffed. “Close.”
“We'll have a joint party to make up for it.”
“Sounds like a date.”

Holy cow! Did Bella just suggest that we have a date? That was totally awesome, I would pinch myself but if that was a dream I never wanted to wake up.

“Maybe when the bikes are finished – our present to ourselves,” Bella added.

“Deal.” I could tell that she was trying to make the conversation more casual and I did not want her to be uncomfortable. “When will you bring them down?” Suddenly Bella bit her lip, looking really embarrassed. What did I say? Umm . . . why does Bella look so embarrassed?

“They're in my truck now.”
Well for all the things to be embarrassed about that was one I could certainly handle. It was turning out to be one of the best days ever “Great.”
“Will Billy see if we bring them around?”
Without thinking I winked at her and said “We'll be sneaky.”

I was beyond excited as we started heading towards her truck. Just to prove my sneakiness I stayed in the trees and made myself walk casually, part of me wanted to run but I knew that would draw Billy's attention. I walked around the truck, removing the tarp that covered them. For a second I wondered if I would be able to lift them on my own, they looked pretty sturdy. I cautiously lifted the first one and found it surprisingly light and put it on the ground. The second was a little heavier and I had to concentrate to set it down gently. I have enjoyed the added strength that I have had the past few months, but I was never more grateful for it until that day. I do not know what I would have done if I couldn't get the stupid bikes out of her truck.

Looking over the bikes they were in better condition that I thought they would be. “These aren't half bad.” We each pushed one into the cover that the trees provided. “This one here will actually be worth something when I'm done – it's an old Harley Sprint.”

“That one's yours, then.”
“Are you sure?”
“Absolutely.”

I still didn't like the idea of accepting the more profitable bike. I started looking them over closely and could see that there was certainly some significant damage to them. “These are going to take some cash, though.” Maybe she will at least let me contribute money for parts. “We'll have to save up for parts first.”

“We nothing,” Bella disagreed. “If you're doing this for free, I'll pay for the parts.”
“I don't know. . .” Everything about this just felt wrong to me, but I didn't really have a good reason to argue with her.
“I've got some money saved. College fund, you know.”

I didn't know what to say so I just nodded my head. This was going to turn out to be the best thing that had ever happened to me. I got to spend time with Bella and show off my mad mechanical skills. Or possibly, this will be the death of me when Charlie killed me for endangering his daughter and spending her college fund. I simply thanked God that I was a teenage boy and no one would fault me if they were given the same situation. It's the code: When the girl of your dreams asks you for a favor - do what she says!

Billy's POV

After Jacob and Bella walked out of the house I took a deep breath. Charlie was not kidding when he said that Bella was not doing well. I knew Charlie was not one for theatrics but I honestly did not know how to help him. Neither Rebecca nor Rachel had gone through anything like this and I said a silent prayer of thanks.

I rolled back into the living room prepared to watch some ESPN, not sure which game I would watch first. I loved all sports and was not really particular. As I settled in to watch the game the phone rang. I rolled back into the kitchen to answer the phone.

“Hello” I said trying to mask the mild irritation at being interrupted.
“Hey Billy, it's Sam”
“Hey Sam, how's it going?”
“Nothing too much, I was just wondering how Jacob was doing? I noticed he has grown quite a bit in the past few months.” Sam asked with a mixture of concern and curiosity.

“Yes he has grown fast. I am watching him closely, he has started eating more and I fear it will be affecting him soon.” Though I knew this was an honor, I was also scared for my son. Not experiencing this myself I didn't know what it would be like.

I remember the day I got the call from Quil Sr. that Sam had phased. It took us all by surprise even though it shouldn't have. When the Cullen's returned I became fearful of the affect that it would have on the youth of our tribe. All the council members were keeping a close eye on the male teenagers in the tribe. How Harry missed the signs of Sam's transformation was beyond me. Maybe he just didn't want to see it because he feared it would break his daughter's heart. After Sam, Jared, and Paul's transformation I thought maybe Jacob would be spared, legend only had 3-4 wolves at one time except for extreme circumstances.

“I'm sorry Billy, I figured this would come, but no one really wants it.” Sam replied with sympathy, bringing me back to the present.
“Thanks,” I said not really knowing what else to say.
“Billy what do I do if he phases? Won't he be the alpha?” Sam asked not sure if he will like the answer but knew he needed to ask.

“Look Sam, lets cross that bridge when we get there. I know that with our family heritage that Jacob's transformation will affect you greater than any of the others. I will do the best I can to keep you informed.” I really did not want to have this conversation but didn't want to be rude either.

“Thanks, Billy that will be a great help. Well I will let you get back to whatever you were doing” Sam quickly said, clearly trying to wrap up the phone call.
“Well you take care, I'll talk to you later Sam.”
“Bye, Billy.”
“Bye, Sam.”

Taking a deep breath I could see Jacob and Bella through the trees walking back to the garage. They each had something but I could not quite tell what it was, but I just hoped that Jacob would be able to help Bella through this rough time. And maybe, just maybe Bella would be what Jacob needed to get through his own rough time that would be quickly approaching.

FACTS
- Billy is in a wheelchair due to nerve damage from diabetes. I honestly have no idea exactly how limited that makes him so what Billy is able to do on his own and what he can't is all my imagination.
- Jacob built the engine in Bella's truck.
- Jacob has a particular smile that Bella considers to be "hers".
- All conversations that Bella is present for will be either directly quoted or summarized.
- Charlie would call Billy looking for help with Bella, but Billy did not know what to do because Rebecca nor Rachel had gone through anything like this.
- Jacob admits to Bella that he does wash dishes at home, so I assume that he would have other chores as well.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: I did some editing and unless you want to read the comments of other readers I would recommend going here for chapter 2.

http://thetwilightsaga.com/group/officialteamjacob/forum/topics/jac...

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Anita on November 4, 2010 at 4:03pm

That's very good JJ and it has a very interesting start. I love that you picked it up shortly after the prom. adding Billy's POV is a nice touch. good job! I can't wait to read more! :)

Permalink Reply by JJ on November 4, 2010 at 5:34pm

Thanks, that you like it means a lot. I'll do my best to add more to it twice a week.

Permalink Reply by JJ on November 26, 2010 at 10:17pm

Thank you! :) I really appreciate it.

Permalink Reply by JJ on November 5, 2010 at 9:17pm

Chapter 2 FRIENDS - Jpov

Once Bella and I got both bikes back into the garage I immediately started taking the red one apart. Not wanting to be a complete idiot I opened the Rabbit's door to give Bella a place to sit. The only people who came out to the garage were Quil and Embry so I never really needed chairs out here. Bella was so easy to talk to, I was able to talk about school and my friends.

I do not know why I was surprised when I suddenly heard Quil and Embry outside the garage. They typically came over each Saturday to hang out and check out the progress that I had made on the Rabbit. Normally I enjoyed their company but today it was slighting irritating that they were taking up the time I was spending with Bella.

The guys walked into the garage oblivious to the fact that this was really not a good time. When they saw Bella they were clearly shocked that I had a girl in here and gave me a “knowing” look. I made introductions and did my best to not punch Quil in the face for his blatant flirting. Quil always figured if “How you doing? could work work for Joey on Friends then “Hi, there” would work for him. He is such a dork.

However their excitement about the bikes fueled my own enthusiasm and for a second I completely forgot Bella was there. We were so wrapped up in the different pieces that I had already taken off of the red bike and talked about the new parts that would be needed to be purchased. I felt terrible for not including Bella but I didn't really know what to say to include her in the conversation.

I gave her an apologetic look. “We're boring you, aren't we”?
“Naw. I just have to go cook dinner for Charlie.”
“Oh . . . well, I'll finish taking these apart tonight and figure out what more we'll need to get started on rebuilding them. When do you want to work on them again?” I was nervous to ask this in front of my friends. What if she didn't come back for a while?

“Could I come back tomorrow?”

I wanted to sigh, and realized I had been holding my breath. I saw Quil and Embry nudge each other and exchange grins. I couldn't even be upset with where I knew their minds had gone, I was just too happy and smiled. “That would be great!”

“If you make a list, we can go shop for parts,” Bella suggested.

I still did not like the idea of her paying for everything and wanted her to know. “I'm still not sure I should let you pay for everything.”
“No way. I'm bankrolling this party. You just have to supply the labor and expertise.”
“That doesn't seem right,” I just couldn't help shaking my head.
“Jake, if I took these to a mechanic, how much would he charge me?
I smiled. “Okay, you're getting a deal.”
“Not to mention the riding lessons”, Bella added.

Oh how I wish she had kept that last comment to herself. Quil, that dirty little pervert, whispered to Embry and I knew exactly where his mind went. My hand flashed out and smacked the back of his head. “That's it, get out” I muttered.
“No, really, I have to go,” Bella protested and headed towards the door. “I'll see you tomorrow, Jacob.”

Bella's back had not been turned for two seconds before my boys let out a chorus of “Wooooo!” With that I launched myself at them both trying to see if I could knock their heads together. They were quick but I was able to grab Quil and give him a noogie and threw him into Embry.

“If either of you set so much as one toe on my land tomorrow I am going to beat the living day lights out of you.” I wanted them to take me seriously but their friendship has always been important to me. “Now help me tear these two bikes apart.”

They were curious about when Bella got here and where the bikes came from so I filled them in on my conversation with Bella. Time flew by and I soon heard dad calling. “Jake, it's time to eat”

“Hey guys I have got to go. Please, whatever you do, do not come here tomorrow. We probably won't even be around if I can figure out what parts we need tonight.” Thankfully they took me seriously and headed out the garage.

I followed them out and we said our goodbyes and see ya laters. I opened the door and went to the kitchen sink to wash my hands. Billy was taking some grilled cheese sandwiches off the stove top and it seemed that we have some tomato soup as well. I got two glasses out and walked over to the refrigerator and poured milk into each glass and set them on the table next to the soup and sandwiches.

“So did you have a good time with Bella?” Billy asked.
“Yeah, I just showed her around the garage. She seemed really interested in the Rabbit, she will probably hang out in there while I work on it” I knew that I needed to have an excuse for how much time we were going to be spending in the garage.

“Did she say if she would be visiting again?”
“Yeah! She is coming over tomorrow.” I wanted to act cool like it was not a big deal but I knew that silly grin was back on my face and I just couldn't help but be happy.
“Well, good. I think that you both will be good for each other.” There was a look in his eyes like he wanted to say more but didn't really, all at the same time. I decided to let it go and just finish dinner.

After two bowls of soup and three sandwiches, I was full. I couldn't believe how much I could eat. Dad put his bowl and plate on the counter next to the sink and rolled into the living room. I heard the TV turn on and I stood up and started washing our dishes. It didn't take long and I went to my room.

I couldn't help but think of Bella. She seemed so different today then the girl that was described by Billy based on his conversations with Charlie. Clearly Bella had seen better days, but I thought I saw a little life in her smile and I dreamed of a day that her eyes would sparkle.

I thought back to the day we walked on the beach. The way her eyes looked at me and her eye lashes danced over her eyes. She has the most beautiful brown eyes I have ever seen. I knew that she could get me to do anything. Never in a million years would I have figured I would have told her those “scary stories”. I had heard them all my life, my father was such a wonderful story teller. I just wanted to try telling them to someone who I knew had never heard them. I knew that my dad would kill me if he ever knew that I had told her, so it would just be one more secret that I had to keep.

I wanted to just be able to day dream into the night. I walked to the living room to find Billy.

“Hey dad, you about ready for bed?” I asked, I never felt like I should be telling him when to go to sleep but at the same time knew he needed my help to get showered and ready for bed.

“Yup, lets wait for the next commercial break and then I can watch from the TV in my room.”

I had a little reading that I needed to do for my English Lit class so I sat down and read until dad was ready. Without a word he turned the TV off and headed for his room. I read until the next paragraph and put my marker in place and went to help him get ready for bed. It was simply part of our routine so neither of us were embarrassed, it was just life.

After dad was comfortably in bed, I went to the bathroom showered, brushed my teeth and got ready for bed. I laid my back down on my bed, with one leg hanging over the edge because it really wouldn't fit on this tiny bed and just thought about my day. I knew instantly “that” smile was back on my face and it was going to be a great night.

I awoke the next morning to the sound of the phone ringing. I dashed out of bed and into the kitchen to answer the phone.
“Hello” my voice was still thick from sleeping and I coughed a little to try and clear it.

“Hey Jake, this is Charlie. Harry is coming over to watch the game and Bella thought that Billy might want to join us.

I swear the girl is a genius, having both of our fathers away together. “That is a great idea let me check.”

I covered the phone with my hand and yelled. “Hey dad, Charlie wants to know if you want to go to his place for the game.”

From the bedroom Billy answered. “Duh! You should know the answer to that, son.”

I couldn't help but laugh, these three men were so predictable when it comes to sports. I brought the phone back up to my face.

“Hey Charlie, my dad is in.”

“Great, Harry is going to come by and pick him up.” I heard a little shuffling in the back ground and a door slam. “And by the way Bella is on her way”

“Oh, thanks for the heads up, I had better have breakfast so I'll be ready when she gets here. I'll talk to ya later bye.”

I hung up quickly, hoping that I had at least waited for Charlie to say bye before I hung up but to be honest I wasn't sure. I dashed back to Billy's room to help him get dressed and he went to the bathroom to freshen up and start the day.

I went to the kitchen and grabbed two bowls poured them with cereal and milk and set them both down at the table. I was eating so quickly that I was on my second bowl when Billy joined me at the table.

“My goodness son, slow down. You do know it is best to actually chew your food.” Billy said with a knowing smile.
“Dad, I do not want to keep Bella waiting.”

With that I was finished with my breakfast and put my bowl and spoon in the sink, dad could do the dishes this time. I raced back to my room and threw on a clean pair of jeans and a long sleeve shirt. I grabbed the list of parts that Embry and Quil had helped me make yesterday and put it in my pants pocket. Then I did a quick look over thankful that dad had encouraged me to clean my room before Bella showed up and I didn't have anything too embarrassing sticking out anywhere.

The rain outside was coming down strong so I grabbed the big black umbrella from the closet and waited by the front door for Bella. It was not long before I heard her truck pull up. I quickly went outside and made it to her truck and held the umbrella high over her door so she could get out without getting too wet.

She seemed a little surprised that I was so prepared and so I knew I needed to explain why I was so ready when she got here. “Charlie called – said you were on your way.”

She smiled. “Hi, Jacob.”
“Good call on inviting Billy up.” I reached out my hand for a high five and I forgot how small she was. She had to reach high on her toes and then just barely reached my wrist with her hand. The effort was so cute that I just had to laugh.

I took Bella throughout the house. There really was not much to see. My bedroom is so tiny that with the bed, chest of drawers, Bella and me crammed inside we seemed to take up all the available space.

Harry arrived and he helped get dad into his truck and they took off. Once the door was shut Bella asked. “So where to, Mr. Good wrench?”

I wanted to give them a few minutes head start before we went anywhere in case they needed to come back for something. And thought I could go over what we needed with Bella before we started out. I pulled the list out of my pocked and smoothed out the paper. “We'll start at the dump first, see if we can get lucky. This could get a little expensive”, I warned. “Those bikes are going to need a lot of help before they'll run again.”

Bella did not even seemed phased, maybe she did not really understand the amount of money were were talking about so I wanted to be clear. “I'm talking about maybe more than a hundred dollars here.”

She pulled her check book out of pocket, fanned her face, and rolled her eyes. “We're covered.”

That was the first time that I realized that Bella might actually be a little bit crazy. But I also realized that I didn't care. I was so impressed that Bella would just hop from one muddy place to the next with me as we went from one salvage yard to the next. I knew that I could never handle being around a girl that was scared to get dirty and so it seemed that everything about Bella kept getting better and better for me. The yards were a great success and we were able to get some really great parts for really cheap.

Even though I was thankful that Charlie had bought this truck from my dad, it always had a soft spot for me, being that it was the first major vehicle that I had worked on. I had done a few repairs here and there to my dad's truck and even figured out how to give it hand controls that my dad could drive it if needed. I still remember the look on Charlie's face the first time dad drove it to his house. For a second I thought Charlie would arrest him for reckless endangerment before he realized that I had installed the hand controls. This monster of a truck that I was riding in was once my baby. I had put the engine together wanting everything to be perfect. I had tried everything I could to make it go faster but the stubborn old thing would not budge.

It was instantly that I noticed the mangled piece that was once a car stereo. I had debated saying anything but the curiosity was eating me alive and so I had to ask. “Did the stereo break?”
“Yeah,” Bella clearly lied, she was just so terrible at lying.
Taking a closer look. “Who took it out? There's a lot of damage. . .”
“I did”
I laughed. “Maybe you shouldn't touch the motorcycles too much.”
“No problem.”

I always wondered if the Bella that Charlie had described was going to suddenly resurface. But she seemed calm with a sweet smile on her face. She was just so easy to talk to that I found myself just chatting away. I wanted her to be able to take part in the conversation.

“I'm doing all the talking. Why don't you take a turn? What's going on in Forks? It has to be more exciting than La Push.”
“Wrong,” she sighed. “There's really nothing. Your friends are a lot more interesting than mine. I like your friends. Quil's funny.”

Great another person that admired Quil. “I think Quil likes you, too.”
She laughed. “He's a little young for me.”

Ouch that hurt. Quil was the same age as me and she knew it. I couldn't keep the disappointment off my face. “He's not that much younger than you. It's just a year and a few months.”
“Sure, but considering the difference in maturity between guys and girls, don't you have to count that in dog years? What does that make me, about twelve years older?”

Wanting to lighten the mood, I rolled my eyes and laughed. “Okay, but if you're going to get picky like that, you have to average in size, too. You're so small, I'll have to knock ten years off your total.”
“Five foot four is perfectly average.” She sniffed. “It's not my fault you're a freak.”

I loved this playful side of Bella and just wanted to encourage our communication even if it was something as silly as pretend ages. But anything that seemed to get her mind off my real age was just fine. By the time we made it back to La Push I had advanced to age 30 and she was just 23, which was actually perfect. I got to brag about my many skills and surpass her in age.

As we pulled back up to the house I jumped inside real quick to see if Billy was home. He was not so I went back to the truck and helped Bella carry everything to the garage. I laid a large plastic sheet on the ground to keep the pieces from getting dirt in the crevasses. I cleaned the new pieces and started a pile for each bike.

I loved working with my hands. It felt therapeutic to see how the different pieces fit together perfectly and worked in harmony with one another. I would glance at Bella while I talked and she would just watch my fingers glide over the different pieces. It just felt so natural to have Bella with me, like it was meant to be.

Time went quickly and soon I heard my dad. Bella stood and looked like she wanted to help put things away. When working on a project it was just easier to leave the pieces as is, that way I could easily remember where I had left off.

“Just leave it,” I said. “I'll work on it later tonight.”
“Don't forget your schoolwork or anything”

“Bella?”

Immediately both our heads snapped up recognizing Charlie's voice wafting through the trees, sounding closer than the house.

“Shoot,” Bella muttered. “Coming!” She yelled towards the house.
Seeing the panic on her face was so cute, that I could not help but smile. “Let's go.” I snapped off the lights to the garage and it was completely dark. I knew this place like the back of my hand and grabbed Bella's hand to help her out. Her hand was so tiny in my large hand and felt so cold.

Between Bella's “grace” and my own awkwardness we were tripping all over each other by the time we made it in view of the house. We were both laughing when we came into view of Charlie and Billy.

“Hey, Dad” we both stated together which just made us laugh more.

I still had my hand clasped around Bella's when I noticed her dad staring at my hand. Though it was completely casual I had to admit that I liked the feeling of her hand in mine. I dropped her hand as we entered the house. Dad started preparing his “special” spaghetti dinner while Harry had gone to his house to pick up his family who were coming to dinner with us.

I enjoy the Clearwaters, whom I have known my whole life. Dad and Harry had always been great friends and so naturally mom and Sue had been close as well. After mom died, even though Sue never said so, I knew she would always be here for me if I ever needed a “mom moment”. I used to have a small crush on Leah, she was just so beautiful, but she started dating Sam. It didn't really matter to me at the time, but I knew that they were having some serious problems in their relationship. I just never took the time to actually learn all the details. Seth had always been such a sweet guy but he was getting to the age where he followed me around like a lost puppy. Being the baby in the family I really didn't know how to handle being “looked up to” the way Seth seemed to do to me. It made me a little uncomfortable so I tried to ignore it as best as I could.

Bella was relaxed but quiet with a simple smile on her face. I couldn't help but noticed Charlie watching her throughout the evening. Not sure why I didn't notice earlier but it seemed that Charlie had the same dark circles under his eyes that Bella had. It seems that her lack of sleep was affecting him as well. I began to hope that if I could help Bella, that I would be able to help Charlie too. Though I didn't know Charlie well, he was very important to my dad and so I wanted to do what I could for both Charlie and Bella.

The clouds started gathering and soon rain started coming down signaling that the party was over. Charlie road with Bella in her truck and I stood at the window and watched it pull away from the house. The Clearwaters also decided it was time to head back to their own home and left as well.

Billy gathered the plates, dumped any left over food in the trash and placed the plates and forks in the sink. There was extra pasta and sauce so Billy grabbed a storage container and placed them inside and put it into the refrigerator. I rinsed the pots and pans while the water started to heat up. Once it was hot I added soap and washed and rinsed while Billy dried. He would put the forks away and place the plates on the counter, he couldn't reach the cabinet from his chair so I would put them away once they were all dry, except for one so dad could always have a plate if he ever wanted something.

We talked about the game and he asked what Bella and I did. I lied about needing more parts for the Rabbit and explained that I took Bella to a few parts stores. I could tell this was not what my dad expected having the place all to ourselves, but really what did he expect me to do to her. We were just friends, while I could dream it would one day be more I knew that she wasn't ready for any type of relationship.

Billy rolled into the living room and turned the TV on. I went to my room and pulled out the homework that I have neglected all weekend. I was okay in school, but never really enjoyed it. School was just a place for me to see my friends and to get through. I have always assumed that I am going to use my hands hopefully working on cars so I don't really see the point in Civics or Geography, if I really need to know where some place is that is what mapquest is for.

I was finishing my last math problem when I heard Billy's chair come down the hall and stop in front of my room.

“Sorry dad, you ready for bed?”

“No rush, I'll be in my room when you're ready.” He continued down the hall to his own room.

I got up and helped dad to bed then went to the bathroom and got myself ready. Today had been a wonderful day. I was not really sure what I was expecting but it went far better then I ever could have dreamed. And that is what I did all night. I dreamed of Bella and of her beautiful brown eyes and the way her long brown hair shines in the sunlight.

Monday arrive bright and early, well maybe not bright but at least early. The alarm went off at 6:00 and I got up went to the bathroom and showered. Draped in a towel I went back to my room to get dressed, it was just me and dad here so neither of us cared. Then I went by dad's room to help him start his day and finally made it to the kitchen to make breakfast.

My favorite was biscuits and gravy with eggs. I turned the oven on and opened a can of biscuits. I placed them in the pan and put them in the oven. Dad rolled in and got a packet of gravy and a measuring cup for the water. He measured the water and placed in the microwave to get hot. While I got six eggs cracked them added some milk and scrambled them together. By the time the eggs were cooked the biscuits were ready and we were ready to eat. Dad rolled over to the table and brought the gravy with him.

We ate in a comfortable silence. After we finished I went back to the bathroom and brushed my teeth and then gathered my school supplies and put them in my backpack and headed out the door. It was a 10 minute walk to school. Embry's house was on the way and so he always waited for me at the corner and we walked the last 5 minutes together. Quil lived just on the other side of the school behind the store that his family owned and so he always met us at the school. However to my surprise today I saw both Quil and Embry as I walked up to the corner.

“Hey! What's up?” I called out, while giving Quil a questioning look.
“I didn't want Embry getting the Bella scoop before me”

Embry just rolled his eyes, but I could tell that he was really curious as well. “So how did it go yesterday? Did she come by like she said she would?”

I gave them the 'scoop' on my day with Bella having to tell them bits and pieces of it between classes.

It was finally lunch time. We stood in line and got our food. Quil got two slices of pizza and a chocolate milk. I had two hot dogs and regular milk and joined Quil who was sitting at the table. Embry sat moments later with both pizza and hot dogs.

“Hey man, I thought you could only get one or the other.” I complained.
He shrugged. “I guess the perk of being able to charm the ladies.”
“It's not charm when your mom works at the school, you dork.” Quil added.

I laughed and gave a hive five to Quil. His hand popped mine and I couldn't help but think of how Bella had tried so hard just to barely reach my hand. A small smile creeped across my face.

“So have you kissed her?” Embry asked.
It took me a second to realize he was speaking to me. “Who?”
“Bella, you dork.” Quil replied.
“No! Are you kidding me?” I had to work hard to chew my food so I didn't choke. “It's not like that with Bella, she just needs me to be her friend.”
“Oh, the 'friends only club, careful dude that can be hard club to get out of,'” Embry laughed and Quil snickered.
“Cut it out guys.” I grumbled, while standing to throw my trash away.
“Look, I'm sorry. I was just kidding” Embry trying for 'damage control'.
“I know you are. Bella is important to me and I want her to be taken seriously between you two.”

Quil trying to change the subject. “Have you started your paper for American History?”
“What paper?” I hated history class and tried to block it out as much as possible.
“It's a 5 page paper on a past American general. It is due on Thursday.” Embry added.
“Oh crap, I completely forgot about that.” With that the bell rang signifying lunch was over. And I knew I owed these guys big time for reminding me of this.

Permalink Reply by JJ on November 6, 2010 at 12:42am

Thanks!! I was worried it was too long. You don't think so?

Permalink Reply by MRS TWILIGHT on November 6, 2010 at 10:32pm