The week continued like normal, me spending time with Jacob and time with the new girlfriends, and time with the Cullens. I got to meet Bella’s father, who seemed smitten by me. Everything was going great.

But Rosalie’s warning never left.

I told Jacob about it. and he assured me that he won’t let anything happen to anyone, especially me. That helped a little, but the idea distracted me all week.

It was time for the barbecue, and we all met outside Jacob’s at 8 o’clock. It was a sunny day, so we all stayed home at the Cullen’s. By the time we got there, everyone already ate, but Jacob saved Bella a plate. I just stuck to Jacob like glue.

“It’s going to be fine,” he would keep whispering in my ear.

“The pack’s not all here, though.” I wasn’t going to be comfortable until they were all here and knew about us.

“Soon. Stay calm. It will be fine.” Jacob kissed my forehead. “I can tell you hunted so that’s fine. Sam, Quil, and Embry are here. Jared knows now and accepts what happened. In fact, he’s thrilled at the idea. They promised to protect you and the others. What else is there?”

I just stared at him.

“Don’t you worry about me. I can take care of myself.”

“We both know last time you said that you broke most of the bones in your body.”

“I have an advantage now.” He kissed me modestly. “I have you.”

“They’re here.” Sam was talking into Jacob’s ear. He suddenly held my hand tight as Sam went to greet Phil, Seth, and Leah. It was obvious he was telling them everything. All the Cullens were tense like me, waiting.

None of us saw it coming.

Phil let out a yell in anger and lunged at me, phasing in flight. Sam, Quil, and Embry all lunged at him, missing. The Cullens were facing Leah, who Seth and Jared caught and was trying to restrain. I was vulnerable, so I shut my eyes and prepared myself.

Before I knew it, I heard Jacob cry out in pain. He put his body between me and Phil, causing Phil to slice his back to the bone and take a bite out of his shoulder.