Veil of Desire - Jasper Hale

2.3

The sun was shining brightly over Forks, Washington, as Edward pulled up to Catalina's house in his sleek black Volvo. Inside the car, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and a hint of nervousness. Today was Bella's birthday, and Catalina couldn't wait to celebrate with her best friend.

"Are you ready for the big day?" Edward asked, glancing over at Bella, who sat in the passenger seat beside him. Her face was aglow with anticipation.

"More than ready!" Bella replied, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm. "I can't wait to see what everyone got me!"

Catalina, sitting in the backseat, couldn't help but smile at Bella's excitement. They had made a promise to each other when they were younger—to celebrate their birthdays together, and this year was no exception.

When they arrived at the Cullen home, the festivities were already in full swing. The living room was adorned with colorful balloons and streamers, and a large cake sat proudly on the dining table. Alice had outdone herself, ensuring that everything was perfect for Bella's special day.

"Happy birthday, Bella!" everyone chorused as they entered.

"Thank you, everyone!" Bella exclaimed, her eyes wide with joy. She rushed to hug Alice, who was bouncing on her toes in delight.

The party was filled with laughter and camaraderie as the group settled in, exchanging pleasantries and jokes. Bella quickly dove into her pile of gifts, surrounded by friends and family.

"From me!" Alice declared, handing Bella a beautifully wrapped box. Bella unwrapped it eagerly, revealing a stunning necklace that sparkled like stars.

"It's beautiful, Alice! Thank you!" Bella gasped, holding it up to admire the way it caught the light.

As the gifts continued, the room buzzed with excitement. Each present was met with joy, laughter, and the occasional teasing from Rosalie and Emmett. Noah, standing slightly off to the side, watched with a fond smile as Bella gleefully tore through her gifts.

Finally, Bella reached the last present, which was wrapped in vibrant paper adorned with colorful bows. The anticipation in the room reached a crescendo as she pulled off the wrapping, revealing a delicate music box.

"It's lovely!" Bella said, her voice soft with emotion as she opened it, revealing a beautiful tune that began to play. "Thank you so much, everyone."

As Bella leaned in closer to admire her gift, she accidentally brushed the sharp edge of the box, cutting her finger.

"Ouch!" she exclaimed, pulling back in shock. A single drop of blood welled up and fell, glistening against the pristine floor.

In an instant, the atmosphere shifted. The metallic scent of blood flooded the air, a scent that ignited an instinctual reaction in both Noah and Jasper.

"No!" Edward shouted, his voice breaking through the momentary stillness, but it was too late. Noah's eyes darkened as he lunged toward Bella, overtaken by a primal urge.

Before anyone could react, Jasper, standing close to Catalina, felt the overpowering pull of blood. Instinctively, he pushed Catalina away from him with too much force, desperate to get to Bella.

Panic etched across his face as he pushed her to the side, but the force knocked Catalina off balance. She stumbled back and fell to the floor, cutting her elbow against the hard surface.

"Catalina!" Edward shouted, rushing to Bella's side while simultaneously glancing back at Catalina. He quickly shoved Bella out of harm's way, his protective instincts kicking in as he shielded her from Noah, who was now completely lost to his hunger.