Chapter 276
- Edward and Bella take their rightful place at the top of the pulpit with Carlisle and Esme. Complete silence falls upon us all as we wait for Carlisle's guidance. It doesn't take long. Tilting his silver grey head back, Carlisle's wolf releases an earth shattering howl portraying his grief at the loss of two beloved packmates and former leaders. Esme, Edward and Bella quickly join in and together they create a mournful song so heart wrenchingly beautiful that it compels each and every member of the Pack to join in.
- Goosebumps rise all over my body and the tears I've been trying to hold back all day burst as my wolf taps into that grief through her song. I lose it. Without even thinking, I take control of my wolf's body and force her to run away from the crowd. I need to be alone for this and I can't hold it back any longer. Shooting through the woods, I sob uncontrollably as the agonizing pain no longer is kept at bay. I don't know how long I run for, but before I know it I've shifted back to my human form. The sobs that wrack through my body are so powerful that I dry heave. Unable to stand, I crumble to the forest floor and cry. My naked body trembles violently and feels like ice. I'm freezing both on the inside and out, but I can't move. I'm held captive by my grief and I don't know how to snap out of it.
- Suddenly there is a slight reprieve as something soft and warm brushes against my skin. Instantly, I move closer to it, seeking more of its warmth. Opening my eyes I'm met by a pair of stunning honey-colored eyes. It takes me a moment to realize that they belong to an unfamiliar wolf that has curled up next to me, obviously trying to warm and comfort me. I've always been taught to be weary of unfamiliar wolves, but for some reason I'm not afraid of this one. A new round of sobs bubble in my chest and I trustingly wrap my arms around the wolf's neck as I continue to cry. The wolf softly licks my face in a show of comfort and allows me to hold on tight as I weep for the loss of my grandparents.