world we created, paul lahote

Chapter 21

An army of vampires were on their way to Forks to kill Bella and the pack was the least bit happy about it. Even though they got the chance to kill several vampires, they were tired of the problems that seemed to chase Bella Swan wherever she went. It was a little over a year since they'd adamantly chased after the red-headed bloodsucker, failing at catching her at every turn. Now, they were dragged into the horror show that was to come.

The Cullens had taken it upon themselves to train the pack on how to kill vampires without getting killed in the process. They wouldn't be able to charge in as a group and go after one vampire at a time, obviously.

Today, the wolves were given the day off but patrols still ensued as usual. While Jasper, Edward, Bella, and Jacob geared up and made final battle preparations, the rest of the pack was granted a much-needed day off. It was a chance to recharge their weary bodies and minds, knowing that they would need all their strength to take on the newborns the next day.

Sam had caught everyone -- the tribe elders, the imprintees, and the wolves -- up to date with the plans. The elders would ensure that the locals of the reservation, as well as the imprintees, kept away from Forks while the pack would fight the newborns alongside the Cullens.

Paul's old truck rumbled up the dirt road to his small cabin as the sun began to set. Lucia looked out the passenger window, her stomach in knots. She had agreed to stay at Paul's home during the fight, to not only ease her worry but his as well. Lucia knew Paul was capable -- he could handle his own and his anger towards the vampires will make it easier for him to take them out. But, there was always a possibility that they may get an opening and he may end up dead or worse.

As Paul parked and cut the engine, Lucia took a deep breath, trying to push down her worries. She shouldered her overnight bag and walked beside him up the path to the front door which he held open for her to walk inside. When they stepped inside, Paul flicked on the lamp by the door to bathe the rustic living space in a warm yellow light. Her eyes danced across his home, admiring the warmth that seemingly emitted from every corner.

"Make yourself at home," he said.

Lucia quietly walked to the sofa and took a seat, placing her bag out of the way. Had she not been so consumed by worry she might've been a bit bashful at staying home alone with Paul for the first time. She couldn't bother with that, however. Not when Paul was going out to fight and risk his life. Paul eyed her for a moment before moving to kindle the fire.

Once he was done, he swiftly made his way towards her and sat down next to her, bringing her close and tucking her into his side. He laced their fingers together, gently stroking the back of her hand with his thumb.

Lucia's thoughts drifted once more, taking note of the silence that enclosed the cabin. Seeking a distraction, she asked softly, "Where are your parents?"

Paul was silent a moment. "I live alone," he said finally. "It's just been me. I moved out the day I turned 18 and, never looked back."

She felt him shift slightly, his hand tightening around hers. "My dad was never really in the picture. Drank too much, wasn't good for much else. And my mom split when I was young, never heard from her after that."

His tone was flat as if the telling of it no longer held any power to hurt. She lifted their joined hands, pressing a kiss to his knuckles. The simple gesture caused Paul to relax with a content hum. As Lucia's hand stayed nested in his, Paul pressed a kiss to her forehead in return.

Lucia's voice was soft as she spoke. "I can't help but worry for tomorrow. What if..."

She trailed off, not wanting to give voice to her fears. But Paul heard them all the same. He turned toward her, releasing her hand so he could face her properly. "Don't worry," he said gently. "I'll be careful, I promise. It's what we are born to do."