Jacob imprints on Bella's daughter, Renesmee, because imprinting in the Twilight universe is an involuntary, profound, and intimate mechanism by which werewolves find their soulmate. Jacob did not imprint on Bella herself but on Renesmee, Bella and Edward's daughter, even before she was born. This imprinting means Jacob is spiritually and emotionally bound to Renesmee as her protector and will become whatever she needs him to be throughout her life—initially as a sibling-like protector and friend, and eventually potentially as a romantic partner when she comes of age. This bond is described as "gravitationally pulled" and creates an unbreakable need in Jacob to care for and protect Renesmee at all costs. The imprinting supersedes his previous romantic feelings for Bella and absolves him of going after her since his true destined connection is with Renesmee, even though this plot element has been controversial among fans due to its implications and timing starting from Renesmee as a baby.