"Embry, Quil, phase back," I heard authority in Sam's voice.

At least he would respect my privacy, and none of us could disobey him. Obviously he had heard my thoughts, so he knew what I was doing. How could she? He left her once and he could do it again!

I was deep in California before I was finally able to think about what I was doing instead of what was happening. Where was I? I ran fast, faster than humans although not faster than the leeches, and even faster when I phase. I slowed down as my sensitive hearing brought me to a highway.

I changed back and struggled with the pants I had tied to my leg. When I finally got them on I jogged to the exit that read 'Boulder Creek' and decided I could check into a motel there. As I ran back into the woods to change unseen, I caught a scent so familiar yet still very distant. It was the smell of more Werewolves, but not anyone that I knew personally. I took my pants off and strapped them to my leg, and then with a flexible motion- and a slightly painful pop- I was parading on all fours. I took off along side the highway but far enough away that no one could see me.

I got to the edge of the town, it was completely dark except for the lights of the shops that lined the road.I was a little amused by its similarity to forks. I once again phased back and put my pants on. Now, to ask for directions.

As I walked the streets of this town, I noticed the lack of diversity. My appearance earned me many stares, especially from the women. I suppose they’re not use to seeing too many people wearing just pants, let alone too many darker toned people. I should ask for directions to the nearest motel, that should give me more time to rest before I head back. I finally decided upon a nice motherly looking woman.

“Excuse me ma’am,” I put on my sweetest voice,” would you happen to know of a nearby motel?”

She looked me up and down appraisingly, and then put on a big goofy grin that looked out of place on her thin face. She had strawberry blonde hair that slightly bounced as she looked around to see who was within earshot.