Chapter 7

It was Saturday.

It was finally Saturday and Spencer felt exactly like she had for her first date with Carlisle. The past two days she spent falling into a nervous spiral where she thought the best option was for her to cancel the whole endeavor. A few phone calls to Carlisle and she decided to go through with it. As the relationship progressed, sooner or later she would need to meet them.

Spencer felt a sense of déjà vu as she looked upon her bed the plethora of outfits, none of which seemed apt for the event. She wished there were someone, anyone, that she could confide in about her worries and much-needed dating advice. It's not like she could go to her mother and ask her what to wear to meet the adopted teenagers of her 26-year-old boyfriend... and the woman that's helping him raise them. She couldn't lie, she was intimidated by this unknown person that knew everything about Carlisle.

But she was determined to enter the lion's den, dressed in a navy-blue dress and red jewelry. Her makeup was simple, neutral colors to accentuate her features, but boldly went with a matte red lip. Spencer put her hair in a braid, wanting it off her face – it would help to limit the nervous fidgeting she partook in. Finally, she decided to wear ankle boots, not wanting a height difference to attribute to any possible accidents. First impressions were important, and this one would be a critical one in her new relationship — whether Carlisle's family accepted her or not would be the difference between a long-lasting connection and a short-lived affair.

She was thankful her mother had to work today. Hiding the fact that she was dating someone older than her had proven to be difficult, but that he was rumored to be married had been a major plight. Talk around the town had already sprouted of the amount of time the Uley girl spent with the Forks doctor — hearsay declaring that she had started an illicit affair with the older man. Thankfully, the whispers had yet to fall upon her mother's ear, and to the eyes of the majority Spencer had simply sought out Carlisle as a mentor in the medical field. At first, she couldn't handle the stares and murmurs as she walked down the halls of Forks Hospital or the judging gaze from locals when they saw the pair together outside of the building.

Carlisle was used to the mumbles out of strangers' mouths and the carping eyes that followed him everywhere he went. But he could see how it was bothering Spencer, and he did all he could to appease her wandering thoughts. He reiterated how regardless of the existence of the previous gossip that surrounded him, people would find a way to find fault in their relationship. Every time he noted her discomfort around others, he would lead her into an isolated corner where he could gift her with a comforting kiss and a soft cheek caress. She always leaned into the touch and her nervousness seemed to dissipate as soon as their lips touched. More than once the conversation came up of how they could eliminate the talks from the root, ensuring they wouldn't germinate one more. But it was all easier said than done. How could they change the minds of everyone in town? For now, they would have to bear the glances and the whispers for the time being.

The cook on her bedroom wall indicated that six o'clock was getting closer and closer. Spencer looked at herself once more in the mirror, making sure everything she had on was perfect. Downstairs, she grabbed the plate of brownies she had made, the flowers she had bought, and the wine bottle she had managed to convince her mother to get. Before leaving, she put a light jacket on, grabbed her purse, and checked that she locked the door three times.

"Where are you going that dressed up?" Spencer jumped at the sound of Paul's voice.

"Paul, hey. Nowhere special, really."

"Nowhere special. Looking like that? I don't think so," he chuckled. It seemed like the old Paul was back — cocky and jocose. "Come on, where you really going?"

"Fine, but you can't tell anyone." She got closer to him, ensuring no one around could possibly hear what she was saying. "I have a boyfriend in Forks and I'm meeting his family today."

"You?! A boyfriend?"

"You don't have to sound so surprised, Paul." 

"I don't mean it in a bad way, Spence. It's just, you know, you've never had time for a boyfriend or any relationship for that matter." He shrugged his shoulder. He definitely didn't mean to offend her, but he couldn't help but think back at the time, many years ago, the conversation of interpersonal relations had come up and she had stated they were merely a waste of time and a distraction from her future plans. "But I'm glad you've found someone that makes you happy. Who is it? Do I know them?"

"That I can't tell you. But he does, he makes me happy." 

"Well, that's all I could ask for. Maybe one day you'll introduce us."

"Will you allow me to?"

"Come on, Spence."

"I'm just saying, Paul. This is the most we've talked in the whole time I've been back and it was just because you caught me leaving, possibly on your way to Sam's house. Because you're always at Sam's house."

"Spencer..."

"You know what?" she interjected. "Forget it, Paul. I'm gonna be late. I'll see you around."

"Yeah, see you."

Spencer got into her truck and breathed deeply. She fought against the tears that were threatening to fall. She couldn't allow herself to put a damper on her mood today, only needing positive energy surrounding her. Paul hit the hood of the truck softly before heading towards Sam's house, a sad scowl painting his face. Once he was out of sight, she backed the car up and sped towards Forks.

It was the first time she had ever been to his house, but she had detailed directions on how to get there. She has joked how it would have been faster to just cross the small creek that divided both towns, maybe one day she'd just build a bridge over it. Carlisle had laughed alongside her, pretending that one day they could both walk freely into each other's land without fear of any repercussion — but he knew the truth. The day he walked over to her side, could very well be the last day he'd live.

Soon enough the house came into view and Spencer stared in awe. The house was beautiful and big, like a piece of art surrounded by greenery — the type of house she had always dreamed to provide for her family once she was a renowned scholar. The nerves started back again as soon as the car rolled to a stop. She could back away from the driveway right now and no one would know that she had been there.

But they would.

They all would.

Carlisle had told them all as soon as he had gotten home on Wednesday that Spencer would be paying a visit to them and he would finally be confessing to her the whole truth. Everyone had been fully supportive... well, all except Rosalie. Bringing in one human had proven catastrophic to the family mere months ago, now they wanted to welcome the sister of a mutt — the sister of an alpha. And should Spencer accept them for what they were, that would mean another human willing to sacrifice what she so longed for. She agreed to be courteous but could not promise to change her viewpoint.

The whole Cullen family had been waiting for the girl's arrival,  listening to any sound the road would make. Edward had decided to invite Bella as well, knowing the familiar face could help appease the nerves Spencer was sure to feel and to provide an outsider point of view to the supernatural if needed. No one knew what the outcome would be, not even the future-seeing Alice could predict her reaction. All they could hope for is that she took the news well and would continue to make their father figure the happiest they had seen him in years.

Finally, they heard the crackle of the road and the sputter of the engine of the old truck that approximated the house.

"She's here!" Alice jumped to her feet, the excitement being too much to contain.

"Try to contain yourself, Alice," Emmett laughed. "Don't scare her off."

"That could never happen," Jasper defended. "Anyone that meets Alice can't help but love her."

"Well, it won't really matter if she gets scared off with the whole vampire werewolf thing."

"Thanks for the support, Rosalie."

"It's what we're all thinking, Edward. There are two ways this could go, and you know which one I'm leaning toward."

"Alright, everyone. That's enough," Esme called everyone's attention. "We are all here give m"We are all here to be a source of strength for Carlisle, so please behave yourselves and put your best foot forward for them both. Now, Carlisle, you should escort her inside."

"Thank you, Esme." Carlisle smiled back toward his family as they walked to the kitchen as to not ambush her quickly. He opened the door and instantly noted how frayed her nerves were.

Spencer was sat inside her truck, practicing breathing exercises to calm herself down, unaware of Carlisle's approaching figure. She jumped when he knocked on the window, feeling better when she saw his smiling face.

"Carlisle," she breathed out.

"Hello, my love." Carlisle helped her out of the car and gave her a quick peck. "Did you find the house easily?"

"Yes. And it's beautiful, by the way. I didn't think it would be this big."

"Thank you. I can't lie, it is comfortable. Now, why don't we head inside? Everyone is excited to meet you."

"As am I. Although, I must admit just a second ago I was considering turning the car around. I don't know why I'm so nervous."

"I'm glad you did not leave. So, are you ready?"

"As ready as I'll ever be," she smiled. Her hands were quickly filled with the items she had brought, earning a laugh from the man beside her. She thought it was because she overdid it with the gifts, but in reality, it was because they would only enjoy the flowers.

Carlisle got hold of the bottle of wine and the gigantic bouquet of flowers to allow Spencer to focus on the tray she had in her hands. He could see them shaking, and he put his free right hand on the small of her back to comfort her as best as he could. "Everyone should be in the kitchen."

"Alright. Let's do this." Spencer smiled up at his golden eyes.

Stepping into the kitchen, Spencer was blown away. With only Bella's face being familiar, she was taken aback by the unnatural amount of beauty in the room. She quickly surveyed the curious faces, each one unique and beautiful. The most they had in common was their extremely pale skin and golden eyes.

"Everyone, this is Spencer. Spencer this is Alice," Carlisle pointed. The Uley girl made a mental note of her features. She was small, with very short hair, and a beaming smile. She stood excitedly, extending her hand toward Spencer, shaking it vigorously once their palms met.

"Oh, I've been dying to meet you, Spencer. You're much more beautiful than Carlisle could have ever described." A deep red hue flushed to Spencer's cheek.

"This is Jasper," Carlisle continued. Jasper was quiet, he only shook her hand and gave her a small handshake accompanied with a nod. His stance was guarded, his eyes following her every move. Spencer studied his body language, he seemed to be in pain, in an inner turmoil. "This is Edward, and of course you already know Bella."

Spencer had heard talk that Bella had been dating someone over in Forks, but never to the time to delve into who it was — what a coincidence that it just so happened to be the son of the man she was dating. Edward was calm, a soft smile painted on his face. After Bella hugged Spencer, Edward shook her hand, the smile never dripping from his face. Behind his eyes, she saw an ounce of curiosity — of what, she didn't know.

"Now, this is Emmett," Carlisle pointed at the biggest guy in the room.

"It's nice to meet you, Spencer." Emmett gave her a hug that startled her but hugged him back. His childish energy was comforting and made Spencer smile. His physical appearance a paradox to how he carried himself. "This is my girlfriend, Rosalie."

Out of all the faces Hera was the most beautiful, and the least welcoming. Her smile was forced, a lifted eyebrow hiding her every step. Adamantly, she stretched out her hand and Spencer shook it, giving her a genuine smile back. She didn't understand what she had done for Rosalie to be Angy at her but she would try her best to get on the blonde's good side.

"Last, but definitely not least, this is Esme."

Now, Esme was a vision of beauty. She looked older than Carlisle but not by a few years. Instantly she noticed the motherly aura that radiated from the brunette. Stood next to Carlisle she could understand how they would be mistaken for a married couple, they looked the part. Esme gave Spencer a hug, a hug Spencer couldn't help but melt into. She could tell that the woman cared, cared about everyone and everything.

"We're so glad to finally meet you, Spencer. Your arrival has been much anticipated in the family." Esme's smile was warm and inviting, no ill will behind it. "I've put out some appetizers if you're feeling peckish, so feel free to grab anything you feel like. And I'll put these brownies out too — they smell delicious. And these flowers! They're absolutely beautiful. Thank you, Spencer."

"Of course. Thank you for welcoming me into your home. I'm pleased to finally meet you — all of you."

"Well, we'll have time for pleasantries soon enough," Carlisle interjected. "Why don't we take a quick stroll, my love?"

"Oh, sure."

"We'll be right back," he smiled. He interlocked Spencer's hand on his arm and guided her outside sliding glass doors onto a beautifully decorated back porch. He turned his head once more toward his family, smiling at their faces of support. They all knew what he was about to do and all were eagerly awaiting the outcome. "How did that feel?"

"Like a weight has been taken off my back. The thought of meeting them was a lot more intimidating than the act. They all seem wonderful."

"They are, they really are."

"Is something the matter, Carlisle?" She put her hand on his cheek, noticing the worry that he shielded behind his eyes.

"There's something I've been meaning to tell you, but I don't even know where to start."

"You know you can tell me anything, darling."

"I'm afraid of what you'll think of me once you know. I couldn't bear if you looked at me with anything other than loving eyes."

"Carlisle, I don't believe there's anything in the world you could say that would stop me from loving you." She took his hands into hers and kissed them. "Now tell me what it is that is bothering you."

"As much as I wish that to be true, I could never blame you for any reaction to what I am about to confess. I think it's better if you sit." He guided her to the chairs next to them, pulling one out for her. "You see, sitting before you is not just a man. There's a reason why there are limits to our relationship that span beyond native legends and local stories; why my family is not welcome at the reservation and there is a line the Cullens cannot cross; why your brother and your friend have to be apart from their families."

"Wait, what do Sam and Paul have to do with what you are telling me? I'm so confused, Carlisle."

"I know, and I'm sorry," he sighed. This was the moment. He was facing losing Spencer forever. "Spencer, the treaty that was done by your ancestors of the Quileute tribe was not with my ancestors. It was done with me and my family."

"That's not possible, Carlisle," she chuckled nervously. "That treaty was made in..."

"1936. At that point, I was nearing three centuries of life."

"Carlisle, what kind of joke is this?"

"I can assure you it is no joke, Spencer."

"Then speak clearly, Carlisle. What are- what are you saying?" Spencer was growing irritated, all this talk had only confused her and her brain was doing summersaults trying to get to the point.

"My family and I are vampires. I've been alive for almost four centuries now, followed by Edward, then Esme, Rosalie, Emmett, Alice, and the youngest is Jasper. But before you say anything, we don't feed on human blood — only on animals that we hunt. We mean harm to no one and are only here to live for as long as we can."

"Vampires? Do you really expect me to believe there's such a thing as vampires?"

"Think back on the legends told by the elders at the bonfires when you were a kid, Spencer. I know they talked about the cold people — pale, fast, strong."

Spencer did remember the stories, but until now she believed they were just stories. The words Carlisle was speaking weren't registering in her brain. How could he be a vampire and how had she not noticed? "And what does this have anything to do with my brother?"

"I cannot divulge that information for I'd be breaking the treaty. Any information that you may seek about the Quileute tribe you will have to get from Sam."

Her head started spinning. She didn't know when her body started moving, but she had gotten up from the chair and was making her way back into the house. All the heads inside turned, watching as the girl was leaving without another word ignoring the calls from their father figure. Somehow she made it into her truck, her hand shaking as she tried to put them into the ignition.

"Spencer, please. Talk to me," he pleaded from beside the door. She heard his words as if he were far away, even though he was right next to her. "My love..."

"Don't call me that," Spencer spoke through gritted teeth. She didn't know when her confusion had turned into anger, but she could feel the emotion bubbling inside her. "Step away from my car."

He did as told, her stern tone sending chills through his body. "I hope you can forgive me. I never meant to hurt you."

All Spencer could do was keep looking forwards. As she backed away she saw the rest of the Cullens magically appear beside Carlisle, placing comforting hands on his shoulders. Her vision clouding as raindrops descended from the sky, drenching the glass. Her foot stepped on the gas and she sped back home, cutting the twenty-minute drive down to ten.

Carlisle hadn't been the only person to lie to her — to keep such a fundamental piece of their life hidden in fear of... something. She didn't even know what. Her brother and her best friend were also hiding something and she would not rest until she got answers.

She parked her truck at her house, choosing to walk towards Sam's house; even under the rain. The anger inside her was so strong she could not feel the coldness of the rain against her skin — maybe she had just grown to the cold touch of Carlisle. Once the small cabin where her brother resided came into view, she stomped up the stairs before pounding on the door.

"SAM!! PAUL! I know you're in there!" She shouted as loud as she could. It wasn't too late into the night, so she felt no remorse over her screams. "SAM!"

"What the hell is your problem, Spence?" Sam opened the door to reveal his infuriated and soaking sister, Paul trailing behind.  "Come in."

"No. I'm here for answers."

"Answer to what?" Paul questioned.

"What the hell do the Cullens being vampires have to do with you?"