Chapter 11: The Fate of The Unlucky Mike was the first one to react of the six of us.

He gave everyone a small glance, his eyes regarding Edward the longest before he muttered a swift farewell and escaped from our sight in the matter of seconds. I looked longingly after him, wishing I could escape as easily as he had with no questions asked and no second looks casted. But no such luck. Caroline knew something wasnt right, and I knew she wouldnt give in until she had gotten what she wanted. Jacob tore his gaze away from the dazzling Edward who had noticed his hard stare and gave me a meaningful look. I told you they werent worth your time, it seemed to say but before I had a chance to explain the situation to Caroline (or simply make up a lie to save our skins), Jacob sighed silently and made a small bow. If you would excuse me, I will take my leave now. He announced, his voice sounding almost strangled in his emotionless monotone. Anger was burning in his dark eyes, making his stare cold as ice, but he made a strong effort to hide his loathing. He straightened himself and then turned around, hastily following the path Mike had used to escape to the kitchen, but he didnt make it far. Suddenly, the muscles in his back tightened and without a warning, he stopped in his tracks. Hold it right there. Caroline said slowly, and this time she spoke, her voice held no kindness whatsoever. It was as cold and hard as rock, and her golden eyes watched him closely, like she could figure out his deepest secrets simply by looking at him. He turned around stiffly, facing us now, and now the outrage in his face was clear. A small, feral sound escaped him and it took me a second to realize that it was a growl. Hush. Caroline commanded icily, and just as she did the noise was cut off as if he was strangled. I will ask you one more time, mutt. How do you know my Bella? The air was deadly silent now. The only sound to be heard was Jacobs and my heavy breaths and the distinct thumps of our racing hearts. I could practically see the rage rising from her like steam from boiling water and I felt my breath getting caught in my throat. Icy fear gripped me, making my stomach curl. I have to do something before this gets out of control. I looked over to Edward for help, but both he and Alice were focused on Jacob, their faces hard and unemotional. It was me who broke the silence at last. Caroline. Surprisingly, my voice sounded strong and confident as it soared out, breaking the tension between Jacob and Caroline. It hardly matched how shaky and scared I felt on the inside. She snapped her head around to look at me and I met her gaze boldly, not daring to look away from her. Let Jacob go. I will tell you everything you want to know; there is no need to torment an innocent man just because you are impatient for answers. It wasnt hard to guess that she was using her so called gift in order to make him do what she wanted, but I couldnt just stand by and let her treat him like that. She looked at me for a long time without saying

anything with an odd expression showing on her face. It was like watching a dark cloud, wondering if it would shoot out lightning the second you looked away. It felt like an eternity when she finally let me out of my misery and turned to Jacob with a wide grin on her face. Fine. Youre dismissed. Leave us be. She said lightly, all traces of anger gone from her voice, but some darkness still lingered in her eyes, making her stare piercing. Jacob, suddenly free from her spell, balled up his fists to his sides, his body shaking slightly but he didnt move an inch. Instead he shot a worried glance towards me and then looked back at Caroline. What will happen to the girl? The grin on Carolines face turned strained, almost forming into a grimace. That is none of your concern, boy. Be on your way and leave us. She ordered and made a dismissive gesture with her hand, but still, Jacob made no effort to move. She will not be harmed in our company. Edward said suddenly, and the intensity of his voice made me turn and look at him. His golden eyes were focused on Jacob, filled with sincerity. I swear it. Jacob glared at him, but Edwards words seemed to have settled it for him. You better. He hissed and before he turned to go he gave me a quick look. I watched him as he disappeared just as Mike had a few minutes earlier, and now that he was gone it was just I and the vampires left. I slowly turned my head towards Caroline, and as I had expected she was staring expectantly at me, waiting for an explanation. I can explain. I began weakly, but instead of being met by anger and frustration, I saw how an amused smile began to blossom upon her face. I bet you can. *~* And thats everything. I concluded, telling them the whole truth, leaving out nothing. I realized that telling them about Jacobs opinion might put him in danger, danger he did not deserve. But they had to know the truth and since Caroline, Edward and Alice were the most honorable vampires I knew, I decided to trust they wouldnt treat him badly now that they knew the truth. And if they would, they would have to get through me to do it. Mr. Blacks opinion is well known on the ship Bella. Alice said as I had finished, and I couldnt help but to feel a little bit surprised. It was? But why would they let him work there if he detested them so, debt or no debt? There are some things that you do not know about himAlice hesitated , but after receiving a meaningful look from Caroline, she continued. Jacob is a shape-shifter, a human capable to become another form. The shape-shifters from his area and most of the shapeshifters in north America turn into wolves.

Like a werewolf? I asked, and even though the news should have surprised me, or even stunned me, they didnt. I only felt a dulled sense of shock. All of the surprises lately had made me realize I needed to be more opened for unearthly revelations like these. I obviously did not know all there was to know about the world, so why act like everything odd was impossible when I had seen clear evidence that proved otherwise. No, hes not a werewolf, even though many people make the mistake. Werewolves, or children of the moon as they are called, can only shift form at a full moon. Shape-shifters have the freedom to preform the shift at will. Edward explained, his voice smooth and leveled as he started to explain the difference between an actual werewolf and a shapeshifter but I tuned out and got caught in my own web of thoughts. So, Jacob was a shapeshifter. Who wouldve guessed it? I most certainly didnt, but although, I seemed to be denser than most people. It almost felt like all the persons around me had some sort of supernatural twist Wait, is Mike supernatural too? I suddenly asked, rudely interrupting Edward in the middle of his speech. He looked at me, stunned by my sudden announcement. I beg your pardon? He asked me looking rather confused by my unusual question. Blushing, feeling rather ridiculous now, I continued. H-Hes not say, l-like a fairy or a wizard or anything else in this fantasy world I havent learned of yet? Three pair of eyes studied me as I stuttered out the words, and as silence fell over us, I looked down at my teacup as I waited for someone to answer me. What I hadnt (but should have) expected was the laughter that followed. Mike? The blonde, short human who has an obvious and absolutely adorable crush on you? Caroline asked, and as I nodded slowly, not really sure I agreed with the last part, she roared in laughter, shaking her little frame. Absolutely not! Do not be ridiculous!! She exclaimed and began to laugh again. Alice joined her, giggling in amusement, and as I looked at her, she caught my gaze and she flashed me a brilliant smile. Her eyes held amusement as well, but they were also rather sly, like she knew something Caroline didnt. Her brother just smiled politely, but I could tell that he wasnt that entertained as the others. Just like his sister, he seemed to know that I was looking at him, and in an instant he was staring back and instead of admiring the profile of the absolutely gorgeous boy in front of me and taking in his dazzling smile, I was drowning in his butterscotch eyes. Embarrassed for getting caught gawking so rudely at him I instantly looked away, hiding my gaze by scrutinizing the dark tea in my teacup. After a few minutes of joking around between Alice and Caroline, the laughter finally died. Anyhow, as I told you before, Jacobs hatred against our kind is not a secret onboard this ship, or anywhere else for that matter. Vampires have many enemies in the world, and the shape-shifters are one of them. Alice explained. But why would you allow him to work here if his kind is an enemy of yours? I asked, confused. It didnt make any sense.

Well you see, Jacobs pack or rather, the pack leader or Jacobs pack owes one of the great Volturi leaders a favor. Im not sure exactly what happened, but someh ow the pack leader angered Aro, upsetting him by taking something that wasnt his to take. Instead of killing the shape-shifter like one would expect, Aro decided to use the shape-shifters and their talents to his advantage. So when this cruise was arranged, Aro decided it was a smart move to bring a shape-shifter onboard. Alice voice trailed off, watching me as I nervously took a sip of my now lukewarm tea. As all the puzzle pieces fell into place, it finally made sense. Jacob was forced to work on the ship because of a mistake his pack leader did. He couldnt contradict him since he was the leader of his pack and now he was here, amongst his enemies, paying a debt that wasnt even his. Pity made my stomach sink, and as I got more and more nauseous I got this sudden urge to empty my stomach of my breakfast I had had this morning. Are you alright Bella? You look a littlegreen. Caroline asked in a concerned voice, and I lifted my gaze to meet her eyes, my vision blurry since my own ones were filled with bitter tears. Why? My voice, filled with raw emotion, cracked and I cursed myself for getting so emotional once again. Why would you do that to another person?? Jacob hasnt done anything to deserve this and yet hes treated this way I trailed off, not being able to continue. So fast I had no time to react, Caroline was by my side and dragged me out of my chair and straight into her small arms, crushing me into a hug. I breathed in her sweet smelling scent, trying to calm myself down and resist the urge to cry and she softly stroked my hair with her tiny hands. Im so sorry that youre hurting Bella. I really, really am. But Im afraid that life isnt fair. Youve seen it among your humans as well. The contrasts between poor and rich, the jealousy and rage between lovers, murderers and rapiststhe list goes o n. Our kind is no better. Power struggles are more than common within our species and more often than not, things will get ugly. Jacobs situation is only one of many, and believe it or not, hes actually quite lucky. Aro has never treated him badly or hurt him during his stay, and as soon as the cruise is done, he will get to go back to his pack. She whispered softly into my ear as she spoke and somehow, it made me feel better. I guess so. I agreed eventually, knowing she probably had a point and I slowly stepped out of her arms, taking a deep breath. I felt better now; the nausea caused by the entire conversation had finally settled and I was relieved I could breathe without feeling the urge to retch. Pardon me for asking butwhy does Jacobs situation bother you so much?? Edward suddenly asked, and my heart skipped by the sound of his voice. Calm yourself, I thought bitterly, knowing that everyone in the room could hear every heartbeat of mine perfectly. I looked away from Caroline to Edward, who also had risen from his seat together with his sister, and now his eyes bore into mine, not letting me go. I blushed, suddenly having trouble to think, and shook my head slightly, groaning inwardly. Stupid! He probably thought I cared for Jacob in a romantic sort of way. I had no idea how you could label Jacob and my relationship; we werent strangers, but we werent really friends yet either. We hardly knew

each other to be honest, but something told me that he was a good human being, someone who had a good heart. But I didnt like him romantically. I Well-we I trailed off and then decided to clear my throat before I continued. I hardly know him but I still believe he doesnt deserve such a cruel fate as that. No one does. He hardly deserves to be punished for someone elses mistake. Edward nodded, his face not showing much emotion, but I could see how his face relaxed somewhat, the muscles in his jaws releasing its tense state. Alice began to grin beside him, her face as sly as a foxs but she stopped as soon as Edward shot her a glare. Tell you what, how about Ill finally give you that tour of the ship Ive been talking about this whole time? You havent seen the whole ship yet, and there are still some amazing sights to be seen. Caroline suddenly said, changing subject completely. Alice face lit up excitedly, her eyes shining as brightly as a sun, and she touched her brothers arms softly, speaking in an eager tone. Yes, thats a brilliant idea! Edward and I will join you, most definitely. Right, brother? She asked as she raised one eyebrow, jabbing her elbow in his chest. A small giggle escaped me, and I was met by a small, astounding smile. Sure, sister. He replied, and ruffled his sisters hair playfully. We all laughed as Alice pouted and complained that he ruined her hairstyle, swearing that she would never speak to him again, but we all could hint the smile in the corner of her lips as she spoke. Its a deal then! Lets- Caroline began, taking my hand and started to walk towards the doors when a tall man appeared in front of us, wearing a large, black velvet cloak. He bowed deeply, his long brown hair falling in front of his face, hiding it from my view and as he rose again, a pair of glowing, red eyes were gazing back at us. Instinctively, I took a step back. Miss Gray, Aro has sent for you. He wishes to see you immediately. The vampire spoke, his voice harsh. At first, I was afraid for Caroline. Why did Aro want to see her? Was she going to be okay? But it wasnt until I heard Carolines dramatic sigh that I realized she would be just fine. Really? Now?? But I dont want to. She whined, reminding me that the Caroline I knew was still there, and pouted sourly with her pink lips. Yes, now. The man replied, obviously annoyed with her attitude, and before I could blink, he had disappeared from our sight. Caroline sighed again, and gave me an apologetic look. Im sorry, I have to go. But you and Alice and Edward can have fun without me. Ill see you as soon as I can. She promised, and after planting a small affectionate kiss on my cheek, she disappeared with vampire speed, leaving me with the other two vampires.

Well I guess its just the three of us then. I stated, still slightly shocked as we walked down the corridor. We all had exited the breakfast room and we were walking down the hallway. Well about thatAlice began, and once again the fox smile appeared on her lips. Alice. Edward said disapprovingly, but she completely ignored him. Instead, she focused her eyes on me, and now I knew I hadnt imagined anything. Her eyes practically glowed of mischief and before I could ask her what was going on, she continued. I have a few errands to run, but you two go ahead. Be sure to show her everything Edward and we will meet again later. She gave me a quick hug, sneaking her arm around my waist, and before I knew it, she was gone as well, nothing left where she just had been except a small gust of wind. Edward and I looked at each other and I immediately avoided looking him straight in the eyes and feeling how a blush began to creep upon my cheeks. Edward cleared his throat and as I watched his face, I saw that he actually looked a bit nervous. He straightened his posture and then presented me with his arms just as a gentleman would. Shall we?