Chapter 16

After dinner everyone quickly moves outside. The Swan men are lighting a fire in the large fire pit, creating one of the largest bonfires I've ever seen. Leah never leaves my side, handing me a beer as we observe from the porch. Several people are already gathering around. Drinks are being passed around and music is blaring from the large speakers in a truck nearby. I have never been one to enjoy parties, always feeling a little uncomfortable and out of place in large crowds. Alcohol scares me a little as well. I've always imagined it would loosen the control I had on my wolf, so I just never drank more than a beer or two. I can feel my anxiety build with every new group that arrives. They openly stare my way. Some looks are friendly and curious, but a large number of them are cold and suspicious. I take a long drink from my beer. Leah bumps me with her shoulder. "The Swans are a powerful family, Bella, and you are one of us. No one will mess with us and if they do there will be hell to pay."