𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑 | 𝐉𝐀𝐒𝐏𝐄𝐑 𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐄

𝟏𝟐 | 𝐉. 𝐉𝐄𝐍𝐊𝐒

ME, JACOB AND BELLA. We're now on our way to take Renesmee to Charlie.

Jacob sat in the backseat with Renesmee, while Bella and I shared the front.

"I'm surprised you took a break from Jedi training," Jacob joked, nudging Bella with a smirk.

"If I don't take Renesmee to my dad, he'll come looking for us," Bella replied, eyes on the road.

"Eighteen vampires, one human. Not exactly ideal," I said, shaking my head.

"I know that's what you guys told Jasper and Edward," Jacob said knowingly.

Neither Bella nor I answered. It was clear Jacob had already figured out we were up to something.

"Whatever. I'm just glad to get away from all those reeking bloodsuckers," Jacob added.

Bella and I exchanged disapproving looks.

"I know, I know. They're the good guys," Jacob said, holding up his hands. "But come on, Dracula one and two are creepy."

We all laughed.

We pulled up to Charlie's house, and Renesmee bolted from the car, racing to meet him and Sue on the porch.

"There she is! Come here, pumpkin," Charlie said, scooping her up and spinning her in his arms.

"Oh wow... you've grown half a foot! Seriously, like six inches!" he exclaimed, eyes wide with pride.

"Come on inside. Lunch is on the table," Sue called, smiling warmly.

Charlie glanced at Renesmee. "Got a tree to decorate today, huh?"

Bella gave a quick nod. "We've actually got a few errands to run. We'll be back soon, okay?"

Jacob shot Bella and me a knowing look as we drove off.

Alice's note had given me hope, a plan was unfolding. Maybe J. Jenks held the key.

We arrived at the restaurant, and I approached the host. "We're meeting Mr. Jenks."

"Right this way," the host said, leading us to a quiet table.

"Mrs. Cullen. Soon-to-be Mrs. Hale," Jenks greeted with a polite bow.

"Hi," we said almost in unison.

"I'm glad you called. I always meet private clients here, it's more comfortable than the office," he explained.

"And more public," I noted, earning a small smile from him.

Bella leaned forward. "So, what kind of work do you do, J.?"

"Oh, this and that," Jenks said. "It's always different. Keeps things interesting."

I tilted my head. "Have you known Alice, Zane, and Jasper long?"

"For over twenty years," he replied. "My late partner knew Jasper and Zane fifteen years before that. Unusually well-preserved, if you ask me."

"Yes, he is," I murmured.

"I trust Mr. Zane is enjoying his vacation?" Jenks added.

"He didn't tell you where he was going, did he?" Bella asked.

"No. Just that he was leaving when he came by to place his order."

Bella nodded. "I assume the order is ready?"

"Of course. I've never been late with a delivery," Jenks said, sliding an envelope toward us.

Bella opened it. Inside were forged passports and documentation for Renesmee and Jacob.

We exchanged a look.

"Problem?" Jenks asked.

"No," I said softly.

"My husband and I thought we'd be traveling together," Bella added.

"Zane said only two were traveling. His instructions were clear," Jenks replied.

Bella's shoulders slumped as she carefully returned the passports to the envelope. "It's my mistake. Apparently, that's not going to happen."

Driving back, Alice's vision lingered in my mind. Renesmee had a future but Edward and Bella wouldn't be part of it.

We watched as Renesmee climbed into Edward's arms. He cradled her lovingly, speaking softly into her mind.

Bella nudged me. I glanced at Jasper, who gave me a small, understanding look, and then nodded toward Bella. She began packing a bag for Renesmee, adding money and carefully writing a letter.

The letter read:

My dearest Renesmee,

I thought we would have forever together. But forever isn't as long as I hoped. I now understand why Alice left me and why your aunt Delilah provided clues, it was to keep you safe. Everything you and Jacob will need is in this pack. Jacob will protect you and help you learn the Ticuna legends.

As Bella finished, Alistair walked into the room.

"It's a romantic notion, isn't it? That a righteous few can defeat great evil. I must admit, you had me believing, for a moment. Well, good luck," he chuckled, turning to leave.

"You're going to need it. Cheers," he called over his shoulder before exiting.