𝑰𝒏𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆, 𝑱𝒂𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒓 𝑯𝒂𝒍𝒆

Chapter 24: Bella's birthday

Theo stood awkwardly in the corner of the Cullen household, surrounded by the tense atmosphere that permeated the room. It was Bella's birthday, but nobody seemed to want to be there—not even Bella herself. Esme had insisted on throwing the party, hoping to lift everyone's spirits, but the tension in the air was palpable.

As the party went on, Theo couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled over him. He knew that being in such close proximity to so many vampires was dangerous, especially with his abilities. But he also knew that he couldn't let fear control him—not when Bella was in danger.

Suddenly, Theo's thoughts were interrupted by a sharp gasp from across the room. He turned to see Bella clutching her finger, a small drop of blood welling up from a paper cut. Instantly, the air in the room changed, a sense of hunger and thirst filling the space.

Theo's heart raced as he watched Jasper's eyes darken with hunger, his instincts taking over as he fought to control the urge to feed. Without thinking, Theo moved to intercept him, grabbing hold of his arm to keep him calm.

But before he could react, Edward lunged forward, pushing Bella into the table with a force that sent her crashing to the ground. Blood spilled from the wound on her finger, staining the pristine white tablecloth crimson.

Charlie's heart raced as he watched in horror, his instincts screaming at him to protect his daughter at all costs. But before he could reach her, Alice gently pulled him back, her eyes filled with concern.

"Charlie, wait," Alice said, her voice soft yet filled with urgency. "Let us handle this."

Despite his fears, Charlie knew that Alice was right. He had to trust that the Cullens would keep Bella safe, no matter what dangers lurked in the shadows.
As Theo held Jasper back, the tension in the room slowly began to dissipate. Bella's wound was tended to, and she was quickly ushered out of the room, away from the danger that had threatened to consume her.

As the party came to an abrupt end, Theo couldn't shake the feeling of dread that lingered in the air. He knew that danger still lurked in the shadows, waiting to strike when they least expected it. But he also knew that as long as they stood together, they could face whatever challenges came their way.

And as he looked around at the faces of his newfound family, Theo knew that he would do whatever it took to keep them safe—no matter what dangers lay ahead. For in that moment, he knew that they were stronger together than they could ever be apart.