Breaking Dawn - Stephenie Meyer [247]
I touched his cheek. Thank you, Jacob.
Anytime, Bella. But you already know that.
He got up, stretched, kissed the top of Nessies head, and then the top of mine. Finally, he punched Edwards shoulder. See you guys tomorrow. I guess things are going to be kind of boring now, arent they?
I fervently hope so, Edward said.
We got up when he was gone; I shifted my weight carefully so that Nessie was never jostled. I was deeply grateful to see her getting a sound sleep. So much weight had been on her tiny shoulders. It was time she got to be a child again-protected and secure. A few more years of childhood.
The idea of peace and security reminded me of someone who didnt have those feelings all the time.
Oh, Jasper? I asked as we turned for the door.
Jasper was sandwiched tight in between Alice and Esme, somehow seeming more central to the family picture than usual. Yes, Bella?
Im curious-why is J. Jenks scared stiff by just the sound of your name?
Jasper chuckled. Its just been my experience that some kinds of working relationships are better motivated by fear than by monetary gain.
I frowned, promising myself that I would take over that working relationship from now on and spare J the heart attack that was surely on the way.
We were kissed and hugged and wished a good night to our family. The only off note was Nahuel again, who looked intently after us, as if he wished he could follow.
Once we were across the river, we walked barely faster than human speed, in no hurry, holding hands. I was sick of being under a deadline, and I just wanted to take my time. Edward must have felt the same.
I have to say, Im thoroughly impressed with Jacob right now, Edward told me.
The wolves make quite an impact, dont they?
Thats not what I mean. Not once today did he think about the fact that, according to Nahuel, Nessie will be fully matured in just six and a half years.
I considered that for a minute. He doesnt see her that way. Hes not in a hurry for her to grow up. He just wants her to be happy.
I know. Like I said, impressive. It goes against the grain to say so, but she could do worse.
I frowned. Im not going to think about that for approximately six and a half more years.
Edward laughed and then sighed. Of course, it looks like hell have some competition to worry about when the time comes.
My frown deepened. I noticed. Im grateful to Nahuel for today, but all the staring was a little weird. I dont care if she is the only half-vampire hes not related to.
Oh, he wasnt staring at her-he was staring at you.
Thats what it had seemed like but that didnt make any sense. Why would he do that?
Because youre alive, he said quietly.
You lost me.
All his life, he explained, -and hes fifty years older than I am-
Decrepit, I interjected.
He ignored me. Hes always thought of himself as an evil creation, a murderer by nature. His sisters all killed their mothers as well, but they thought nothing of it. Joham raised them to think of the humans as animals, while they were gods. But Nahuel was taught by Huilen, and Huilen loved her sister more than anyone else. It shaped his whole perspective. And, in some ways, he truly hated himself.
Thats so sad, I murmured.
And then he saw the three of us-and realized for the first time that just because he is half immortal, it doesnt mean he is inherently evil. He looks at me and sees what his father should have been.
You are fairly ideal in every way, I agreed.
He snorted and then was serious again. He looks at you and sees the life his mother should have had.
Poor Nahuel, I murmured, and then sighed because I knew I would never be able to think badly of him after this, no matter how uncomfortable his stare made me.
Dont be sad for him. Hes happy now. Today, hes finally begun to forgive himself.
I smiled for Nahuels happiness and then thought that today belonged to happiness. Though Irinas sacrifice was a dark shadow against the white light, keeping the