#hayley marshall

[vervainvictim]

[klausysworld]

Is it truly okay to love them both?

Summary: After getting kidnapped by New Orleans witches alongside best friend Hayley, both Mikaelson brothers prove to be more than just the horror stories. Loving just one doesn’t seem to be possible but loving both is unfair.

Hayley becoming pregnant with The Hybrids child was almost laughable at times. Despite being locked up by the witches in the cold and dark, occasionally we would simply just burst into a fit of laughter at the ridiculousness of the situation. Of course sometimes those laughs would become tears, Hayley was afraid and confused. We would sit in the corner, hugging tight through the night.

“I didn’t mean to…” she’d hiccup.

“It’s okay.” I whispered, looking to her with a smile. “Think of the good. You’ll have a baby.” I reminded and gently touched her stomach. Still flat but we both knew what was there.

Eventually someone arrived: Elijah. He was tall, his features sharp and dark as he looked down at us both.

“Which…” he trailed, his eyes looking at us both until Hayley stood and confirmed it was her who was pregnant with his brother’s child. Soon he was telling us horrible memories from his childhood. His hands reached for ours, the contact making me gasp and flinch at the feel of his power. His eyes glanced to me and his brows twitched ever so slightly. “You’re a witch.” He stated though his voice changed slightly at the end as though it might’ve been a question.

“Yeah…sorry.” I apologised and held his hand again, letting the vision of his past draw me into his mind. After witnessing their father’s abusive nature I seemed to just stare into his eyes for a moment, finding the hurt that still lingered somewhere amongst the stoic walls built. Hayley had already let go of his hand, remarking that their father had been a dick. Eventually I let go and he cleared his throat.

After a little time, Klaus arrived. He wasn’t what I had expected, even after Hayley had shown me in her memories what he was like. Perhaps after seeing that split second of his past, it changed the way I looked at his anger. Except it wasn’t anger at all, he was yelling with so much fear.

“You’ve slept with someone else! Admit it!” He screamed and I flinched but Hayley stood her ground.

Both brothers ended up leaving. Letting us settle back into a depression at the thought that the witches might kill Hayley as a punishment for Klaus’s refusal. I cried as quietly as I could as I held onto her. I didn’t know what I would do without her. We’d met through the foster care system. It was merely coincidence that we’d both been supernatural, of course we didn’t know about hers until she broke the curse. By which point she was adopted and I had finally ran away from one my ‘homes’. But we’d stolen phones a while back and had never changed them so when she had to leave, I was there to get her. We’d been together ever since. Except for Mystic Falls, I had stayed away as when w meet Katherine, she didn’t think it would be smart for another witch to go in. I might never make it back out.

Thankfully, we did make it out of this situation. Elijah came back to get us, driving us out of town to a large but empty house. Hayley got out of one side and I went to get out of mine but Elijah was already there, stood open and hand out to help me down. I could feel my cheeks redden as I took his hand again, the power shocking me slightly even the third time of contact. He hadn’t let go of my hand until we were inside the house and Klaus was making remarks and rolling his eyes. When I looked to Hayley she only grinned at me, ready to tease but I hit her arm lightly in a ‘warning’.

It was only the next day that I had come down the stairs and Elijah was gone. I frowned and looked around quietly, accidentally finding Klaus instead. He was sprawled out lazily on the couch, a book in his hand which he appeared to be drawing in.

“Elijah’s gone. He won’t be back for some time.” He announced, not looking up. I wanted to ask why, and where he’d gone but everything in me told me that I didn’t really want to know the answers and that he wouldn’t give them over anyways.

“Okay” I whispered before glancing behind me to the kitchen. “Do you want a drink or anything?” I offered, my voice a little shaky. He seemed to pause his sketch, head turning and his bright blue eyes meeting mine for the first time.

“Tea.” He stated, and we stared at each other for almost an entire minute before he breathed the word “please.” Which I had been waiting for before turning on my heel to make drinks.

I set his cup down on a coaster, I could feel his eyes wonder over me as I sit down on the sofa beside his.

“Hayley’s still asleep.” I informed, incase he was going to ask. I don’t really think he was going to though.

“Alright.” He muttered simply.

“What’re you drawing?” I asked and his eyes narrowed at me slightly.

“Remind me, who are you?” He asked and I felt my face redden again.

“Oh, sorry. I’m Y/N, I’ve been friends with Hayley since we were children. I was with her when the witches took us.” I explained and he hummed with a nod as if remembering.

“And you yourself are a witch yes?” He questioned and I felt a bubble of fear rise in me. I didn’t want to be used for anything.

“I’m not very good” I whispered, “I have no practice really.”

“We have a thousand grimoires here. I’ve known enough witches to mentor you.” He told me, turning back to his page and never answering what he was drawing.

I ended up making him tea most mornings. He’d drop the heaviest book I’d ever seen in front of me telling me to read.

After a while Hayley would come down and roll her eyes, tossing the grimoire away and laying literally just on me until I couldn’t breathe.

When Rebekah came she was like a force. Hayley got on well with her, they were similar in many ways. I was less of a force than Hayley, or Rebekah. But I guess that was why I liked them so much.

“You’re so cute.” Rebekah told me whilst she did my hair. I heard Klaus chuckle as he came round the corner.

“She isn’t a pet, Rebekah.” He reminded, making me blush and glance back to her as she twirled my front pieces.

“I know that.” She glared back at him. “Doesn’t stop her from being cute. Don’t you find her cute?” That made Klaus go quiet. I felt him staring so I stared back. After a moment a smirk tugged at his mouth and his eyes almost seemed to shimmer.

“Adorable.” He agreed before placing a full, hot cup of tea in front of me. For once, he’d made it.

I felt Rebekah’s gaze as he left. She laughed, soft and light as she pulled my hair undone. She only played with it for fun. “He fancies you.” The amusement was clear as she stood up. “Just don’t get pregnant.” She teased before leaving too. I just stared blankly at the empty doorway. How delusional. I’d known him for literally a week, he’d already suspiciously gotten rid of Elijah and was planning “war”. He didn’t ‘fancy’ me or whatever.

Or I kept telling myself that.

I also had to keep telling Hayley that I did not find Elijah attractive. Which was a lie but she was going to make it a really big deal so I just said he wasn’t at all.

But I couldn’t contain myself when he walked back through the door. I was glad to see he was okay and I hugged him. Maybe it was weird. We didn’t really know each other but I guess for a moment I thought that maybe he had gone for good or something. Besides, he hugged me back. Elijah was firm, solid and stable. He never let go first. Not when we held hands, and not until I stepped back from the hug. I could feel my face warm but his was pink too so it didn’t matter.

It only mattered lately when Hayley was going on and on about it later that night.

“Oh we’re gonna have to get you some new underwear!” She squealed, tossing all my panties out of my drawer making me whine and start to pick it up. We were laughing about it as she did so before the door opened. Hayley gasped and I spun round. My eyes went wide when I saw Klaus stood with a pair of my panties hanging from his finger. I quickly snatched them off him and threw them back at Hayley.

“Well now. That was rude, wasn’t it?” He teased, the grin on his face making my cheeks burn with embarrassment. “Though some are these are…also adorable.” He chuckled, reaching down to pick another pair up.

“No-“ I yelped, lurching forward to grab the but he lifted his arm making me grab his shirt instead. “Give them back!” I tried to demand but my voice sounded more like a whimper as I got them off him and shoved past, walking so quickly that I tripped but I pushed my way into another room and slammed the door closed behind me. I breathed heavy and fast, my face so hot it hurt.

“Y/N?” I jumped at the voice, looking up to see Elijah looking back at me. His eyes full of concern as he put his tie down. He must’ve just removed it. The top two buttons of his shirt were undone too. “What’s happened?” he questioned, walking over and smoothing his palm over my hair firmly but gently before kissing the top of my head.

“Nothing.” I whispered. “Sorry…I didn’t know this was your room.”

“I don’t mind.” He assured. “You’re more than welcome.”

I stayed quiet for a moment, still embarrassed. I didn’t want to go back out, Klaus would probably be there waiting to tease me. Or Hayley would find it too funny. So eventually I moved away from the door and sat down in Elijah’s room. He showed me his personal library, advising me on a book and reading it with me. I hadn’t been read aloud to since I was a child, myself and the other kids in my foster house would often read together. A moment of comfort came over me when he did so. It must’ve put me to sleep, by morning I was in my own bed. No clothes left on the floor.

When I went downstairs Klaus was in the kitchen. A plate of toast, my usual breakfast choice, was pushed across the counter to me, a cup of tea swiftly following it. I accepted it silently, eating quietly. After a moment I felt his hand against my back, he glided it up slowly. I swallowed thickly when a kiss was pressed to the side of my neck, the sensation a soft tingle against my skin. I wasn’t entirely sure what the action meant, but there was no mention of the night before.

There was a new sense of normality starting to form in the home. This lasted on a couple days before we were attacked. I didn’t remember much, just a harsh smack the back of my head before everything went dark.

When I woke, all I could taste was blood. The I could smell Klaus, feel him. “Keep drinking.” His voice told me. My head spun as I swallowed the metallic taste down at looked up. Elijah was looking back at me with nothing but worry. My eyes fluttered when Klaus’s fingers thread through my hair, but they got caught at the back making me cry out.

“It’s matted from the blood.” Elijah muttered, his brows pinching together.

“Where…where’s Hayley?” I asked, my mind still hazy but it was all I could think.

“We’ll find her.” Klaus assured quietly before lifting me and setting me back down on the couch.

“I’ll stay with Y/N.” Elijah informed, sitting beside me on the sofa which made Klaus scoff but he didn’t protest. Instead he vanished from sight. “Rebekah will go with him. They’ll have Hayley back safely.” He told me and I nodded before closing my eyes again, exhausted despite only just waking.

The next time I opened my eyes, I could hear Hayley’s voice. I didn’t wait to shoot up, looking for her quickly. Within seconds I felt her arms around me, I held onto her tightly.

“Are you okay?” I asked quietly and she nodded.

“Are you?” She asked back and I nodded too.

We were pretty much escorted up to our rooms by all three Mikaelsons. Elijah lingered slightly before leaving, Klaus left and then came back. I lifted my head from my pillow when he opened my door.

“Klaus?” I mumbled tiredly.

“It’s me.” He confirmed whilst walking over, sitting on my bed and reaching to stroke my hair. “Is the pain gone?” He questioned.

“Yeah.” I smiled and rubbed my eyes. I sat up a little and flicked my lamp on. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing.” His head shook. I tilted my head slightly, and watched his brows furrow slightly. “Do you…” his voice trailed to nothing for a few seconds. “You and Elijah-“ he began and I frowned.

“No.” I interrupted. “There’s nothing.” I laughed slightly, nervously. “Hayley and I have been here like a week or something.” I reminded, shifting a little. “I don’t even know Elijah- or you.” My words seemed to ramble together quickly. “So there’s nothing and-“

“Alright love, alright.” Klaus’s hand covered mine gently. “I didn’t mean to rattle you up.” He chuckled softly. “I had just noticed, and wondered is all.”

The day after that Klaus came home covered in blood and told us to pack whatever we had because we were moving. And sure enough, an hour later we were told which new rooms were ours. The vampires there weren’t overly happy with our arrival. Though they were more offended by Hayley’s being a wolf than me being a witch. Either way, Klaus made it clear that neither of us should be touched.

Elijah made sure too. Whenever he’d see me around on my own, he would make sure to put his hand on the bottom of my back to follow me around. Making sure none of the vampires even thought about hurting me. It was kind of worrying that they thought I could get hurt just walking downstairs. But it was okay, one of them was always there.

Klaus was always in the lounge, two cups of tea ready for when I sat down and tried to see what he was sketching again. He’d hide his book, and hide the smile on his face too.

Hayley had started to show signs of pregnancy now. We’d started raiding wardrobes for comfy things that fit. I had a pile in my arms so high that I couldn’t see as I came running through the halls. Sure enough I ran smack into something; someone. His hands grabbed my waist, the clothes all on the floor.

“Careful, love.” Klaus teased, pulling me flush against him. I felt my stomach flutter slightly at the feel of him. It was almost a hug and yet not quite. “What’re we doing with all of this, hm?” He questioned, looking at the pile long dropped and forgotten.

“Oh” I muttered and leant down to pick it up but he must’ve had the same thought causing our heads to knock together. “Ow-“ I reached up to hold my head and he cupped my face too.

“Sorry, love” he mumbled, kissing the spot he’d hit gently. “Now let me-“ he crouched back down to gather the clothes before standing back up.

“It’s for Hayley.” I smiled, “she needs more clothes.”

“Why didn’t either of you say sooner? We’ll order clothes. You don’t need to be scavenging.” He walked me back to Hayley’s room, putting the clothes on her bed, though she wasn’t anywhere to be seen. “You don’t need anything do you?” Klaus asked, a slight frown beginning to form.

“No…” I tried to convince but the truth was that Hayley and I were kidnapped by those witches with a suitcase in the car which we shared. We didn’t have anything. We’d been wearing the same clothes on rotation, occasionally stealing something from Rebekah. I glanced up at him and I could already tell that he knew I was lying. I felt a wave of guilt when he reached into his pocket and pulled out his wallet, pulling a sleek card out and presenting it to me.

“There’s no spend limit.” He nodded to me, “have at it, sweetheart.”

“No, it’s okay.” I smiled and turned but his hand pulled me back and the card was slotted inbetween my fingers.

“I expect you both with full, brand new wardrobes by the end of the week.” He hummed, stepping backwards out of the room slowly.

I was hesitant, but Hayley was all for it. Rebekah was even more excited, even though Klaus made it clear that it wasn’t for her.

Soon enough, our wardrobes were in fact full. I tried to give the card back to Klaus but he wouldn’t accept it. For some reason Elijah had been bitter about it. I’d accidentally walked into the courtyard when they were up in each other’s faces. Klaus had stormed off when they noticed me and Elijah just went quiet. I’m not a hundred percent sure what it was about but something told me it was me.

Maybe it was Hayley. She told me it was about me all the time.

Tension was getting high though. Hayley had met a werewolf, Jackson, and found out they were betrothed which was kind of crazy. What was more crazy was that he was wolf every day except the full moon. It was okay though, they met on the full moons and she liked him instantly. Klaus didn’t like her going out into the Bayou while pregnant though. And he didn’t want his baby to be out there which was kind of weird because apparently he’d been trying to possess his Wolf side for a whole millennia.

Elijah didn’t really understand it either. “Niklaus can be…territorial I suppose.” He told me once while we sat in his library again. “Perhaps something inherited from his wolf.” The idea was mused and I nodded. “Still, he can be overbearing.” I felt his eyes shift to look at me, as if gauging my reaction.

“I think he’s sweet.” I murmured quietly and Elijah’s eyes averted.

Klaus had done a similar thing.

“Elijah can be a bit of bore can’t he?” He suggested, turning to face me as I looked up from the grimoire he’d given me most recently.

“A bore?” I questioned, “of course not. Elijahs full of ideas.” I smiled and looked back to the spells.

It was a little awkward and confusing, everything I said felt like a test. It was almost better when something happened that meant we had to snap back to reality.

Like when Genevieve abducted Klaus and Rebekah, and I had to help Elijah figure out where they were. It was a shock, obviously, when he began removing his shirt. I felt my face flush and my eyes didn’t really know where to look. I hadn’t really expected his chest to be so broad. His abs so be so visible. The neat shirts and blazers must’ve mislead me.

I felt his gaze on me like a weight as I read out all the names on him so he could figure out their pattern. When my fingertips brushed over his skin I heard him groan. Hayley snickered from the corner before eventually coming over to help.

Elijah wouldn’t let us go with him.

Instead he came to get me when he was already back.

“Niklaus is…in a predicament. I’ll remove the blade from his chest and you, you need to feed him.” He grimaced slightly when he said it, as if the mere thought disgusted him.

“Feed him?”

“From your wrist.” He confirmed. “He won’t harm you.”

I took his word.

Klaus looked awful. His face grey and his chest slick with cold sweat, a deep red line sliced down his body even after Elijah tore the bone blade out of him. I gasped and grabbed Klaus’s hand tight when he let out a weak sound of pain. Elijah just left after Klaus grumbled out a threat.

Soon enough I was sat with him on his bed, holding him up a bit and helping him hold onto my arm. “It’s okay” I whispered, watching his hazy eyes as he focused on extending his fangs. A small whimper left me when he bit in. It stung for a moment, though he was gentle like Elijah predicted. Soon enough I was almost as weak as he was and he held me to him.

“You have no vervain in your blood.” He murmured, a small frown on his mouth. “Anybody could have compelled you, or worse, drank you dry.”

“Sorry” I slurred slightly. “I wear it.” I mumbled and he hummed softly. I groaned quietly when he lead me down and sat up. I tried to get up but he’d left me with such little strength. When he leant down to kiss my cheeks my eyes closed. I didn’t open them until everything had already happened.

Hayley and I were devastated by Rebekah’s outcasting. Klaus was still distraught by her betrayal. Elijah was becoming more and more fed up.

By the time the witches, wolves and vampires had began to speak of a treaty, Genevieve had become a frequent visitor. My face must’ve been full of horror when I saw her waltz out of Klaus’s room in just her underwear. She said something vile to me, something regarding her mouth and his- well I tried not to listen. Now I hadn’t thought that I really felt anything more than familial care for Klaus but him being with someone else hurt more than I thought. So I avoided him a little.

When the party was thrown, I was with Elijah for almost the entire evening. His hand stayed on my hip, whether we were dancing or getting a drink or simply just stood. His suit was sleek, more so than usual. Klaus’s was dark.

Elijah had given me nothing but compliments, not until my cheeks burned so read that I asked him to stop.

“Why should I?” He asked, his voice so quiet against my ear. His body was over mine, trapping me against the wall as he breathed against me. He smelt heavenly, somehow like comfort and strength. I couldn’t breathe at all when his eyes met mine. I could feel his lips so close to mine. A small sound left me when I pushed forward, kissing him first. The action seemed to shock us both before his hand held my neck, guiding my mouth against his. I hadn’t expected his tongue to be so eager, he didn’t seem like the sort of man to drag his hands down the length of my body or have me pushed against a wall whilst I moaned in his mouth. Yet there we were, breathless and overwhelmed.

“Forgive me.” He uttered, resting his foreheads against mine. “I don’t know what came over me.”

I smiled at his words before looking up at him, giggling when I saw my lipstick all over his mouth and chin. I rubbed some away with my thumb to show him.

“I meant to be softer with you.” He admitted quietly, his hands releasing my hips as he glanced behind him, checking nobody had been watching. “Perhaps we should go upstairs.” His throat cleared and I faltered slightly. I was hesitant. I’d kissed him, yes, but I wasn’t ready to have sex or anything. To be honest I hadn’t done it before. Moving around so much built Hayley’s confidence but it knocked mine down instead. And on top of that, I’d only just realised I had possible feelings for both brothers.

“Y/N?” His voice echoed through my mind, his hand cupping my face again. “I didn’t mean anything indecent by it.” He whispered, his brows slightly furrowed with concern. I could feel how pale I had gone, I almost felt sick. “I just meant to clean up. I’m covered in pink remember?” The tease was light, making me laugh, the sound slightly nervous. “Come on, it’s alright.

I sat down in our ready nook. I could see him, his bathroom door was open as I wiped the lipstick off his face. His handkerchief swapped out for a new one before he came and kissed the top of my head.

“I didn’t mean to alarm you.” He murmured, his voice always so full of concern and understanding.

“No I’m sorry.” I whispered, squeezing his hand gently. “I just…”

“You don’t need to explain.” He smiled and helped me back up. “Would you like to go back down?”

We did end up going back. The second I got down the stairs I saw Klaus. He was staring back at me, eyes cold and empty. I’d never seen him like that before. Elijah let go of me for the first time, he was going to grab a drink. The second his hand left me Klaus was in front of me. I didn’t expect him to grab me, pull me off with him roughly.

“Klaus-“ I whimpered. I could hear his breathing heavy, hurt.

“Why would you do that?” He demanded, but his words cracked in his mouth. I looked up at him when he stopped pulling me. We were in a whole other room, the music just a thump behind the door.

“Do what?” I asked, scared, but I knew.

“You kissed him.” He glared. “You let him take you up there-“

“No! No we didn’t do anything.” I defended quickly. I could feel my eyes watering. He breathed heavy and loud, his chest moving up and down dramatically.

We were both silent for a moment. I sniffed, a single tear escaping me.

“Don’t cry.” He muttered, his head turning down toward the floor. “Don’t be afraid.” His voice was softer now, his hand gently caressing my wrist where he had grabbed earlier. I closed my eyes when he wrapped his arms around me, resting his chin on my head. “Forgive me.”

“I thought you and Genevieve-“

“It’s nothing. I’ll never look at her again.”

Somehow, him telling me that made me feel so much better. It also made me feel guilty again. Eventually I got to my room, and I didn’t speak to either of them for all of the next day.

I avoided them so much. All the way until the day of the baby’s birth. Elijah had raced us to the cemetery, even after being bitten by one of the werewolves but we were too late. His hands grabbed me securely at my sides when I saw her. Klaus looked up, still dripping in blood as he held her body.

Time seemed to stand still as I let out a scream that hurt my entire chest, but I couldn’t hear a thing. I couldn’t feel anything. Sobs racked my body until I couldn’t breathe. Through my blurry eyes, I could just about see her still, until Klaus turned her face to his chest so I couldn’t look. Elijah must’ve carried me over, I latched onto her body tight. Klaus and Elijah’s voices were just muffles before I was pulled away.

“Love.” The word rang through my head as Klaus thumbs wiped my eyes and he held my head still in front of his. He’d been crying too. The sight and the smell off all the blood on him, on me now from Hayley. The scene as a whole. Elijah quickly moved me off Klaus as I threw up onto the floor.

“Shh…” he soothed, hand on my back as I cried again. I didn’t want to live without Hayley, she was all I had ever had. The only person to love me when nobody else would. That was all I could think of until the memory of the baby seemed to creep back in.

“Her baby…” I mumbled, pulling myself up and swaying slightly.

“We’ll make sure the baby’s safe.” Elijah nodded, and Klaus got up too. It was like a switch had flipped. I knew that I needed to make sure her baby was okay, I couldn’t let them both die.

Thankfully, neither of them ended up truly dying that night. I’d never known relief until I saw her again. Stood up and breathing. Alive. Or alive enough.

Their baby girl was so tiny, so quiet. None of us wanted her to go, but she needed to. What was worse was that I had to be compelled, alongside Marcel to believe the child had died.

The second the words were spoken to me, I was filled with loss. I looked at Hayley and Klaus with so much upset. My memory altered, the baby had been killed.

I’d lay with Hayley for hours, brushing through her hair whilst she lay awake unable to even consider sleep. I’d hum songs from when we were younger, staying with her as often as she wanted before she needed time to be alone.

Klaus would sit in the empty nursery, just staring at the crib. I’d come and rub his back through his shirt. It was heartbreaking to hear him cry. Real sobs that made his body shake. I stroked his over grown curls, wiping his tears gently and trying to keep him looked after. Elijah had come to check on him, finding us in the bathroom whilst I shaved his face carefully. Elijah and I just looked to one another in silent understanding as he sat came over to comb out the little neglected knots formed in Klaus’s hair. The depression moved onto angry soon after. That was harder to contain.

Hayley got angrier too.

I’d and up hiding in Elijah’s room.

“Hayley’s never killed before…not really.” I whispered. “Not until we came here.”

“I’m sorry.” He uttered, his tone regretful.

“I don’t know what to do.”

“Come here,” he murmured, and I did. I’d lean against him for hours at a time. In some ways maybe Hayley did die that night. So many things had changed. Even stupid little things, like her accent starting to fade. It didn’t make me love her any less of course, but it was difficult to see.

With everything happening, I pushed away any feelings I might’ve had for either Mikaelson. Everyone was grieving. It wasn’t the time nor the place; it never was.

Things were just less for a while. In every respect. Even with Esther coming into town. Something just wasn’t the same anymore.

But then Klaus got us all in the car and we drove out into the country. Hayley flew out the car before it even stopped moving to get to Rebekah and Hope. Klaus had whispered the name to me once. They explained to me what had happened, I was uncompelled. It had been so hard not knowing but I knew why.

We got to stay for a few days. Everyone was so much happier. Teasing each other again, snarky remarks and laughter. A sense of normality.

I smiled at Klaus when I held Hope in my lap. She was all smiles and little sounds. Klaus came to sit beside us, his arm loosely around my waist whilst his other gently stabled Hopes back. “Would you ever want to be a mother?” He asked, voice curious.

“I don’t know.” I replied, unsure really. “I never thought I would be.” My head shook slightly. “Hayley and I have only ever looked after each other at most, I don’t think I could…”

“I beg to differ, love. You’ve taken care of all of us these past months.” He reminded and I smiled slightly, a sad smile. I felt his lips press a soft kiss to my cheek before our heads rest together, our gazes set in Hope.

Hayley was all over her. When they had to go, Elijah and I stayed with Hope to look after her. But Elijah had been a little off. Esther had taken him, tortured him to open up to parts of him that he’d pushed so far down that he didn’t even realise existed anymore.

I knew he wasn’t right when he started scrubbing at his hands. So hard that the skin started to peel away.

“Elijah!” Cried, trying to pull his hands apart to stop the bleeding but he shoved me hard. My back hit against the kitchen counter making me gasp and try hold onto something but I went down quickly. The sound of pain that left me made his head snap to mine.

“Y/N-“ he dropped the sponge and knelt down in front of me, gently pulling me off the floor and stroking my hair. “I’m sorry.” He whispered, kissing the back of my hand and then my forehead. “I would never…”

“I know.” I nodded and kissed his mouth, just a small harmless kiss. Something we both needed. “It’s okay. You just need to accept this part of you.” I pressed my palm to his chest but his head shook.

“You’d wish you never met me.”

“I could never-“

“I’ve hurt people in ways that even Niklaus hasn’t. In ways your mind could not imagine, not fathom.” His eyes were full of despair and regret as he said so. In some ways, of course I wanted to know but in others perhaps I didn’t. So I didn’t press the matter, instead I just rubbed his chest gently and sighed softly. Within a few moments the silence was gone, replaced by Hope’s cries for attention.

Thankfully, it wasn’t much longer before we were able to take little Hope home. Klaus attempted to hide his excitement, his relief, but I could see the little smile on his lips.

“She’s so big already.” I whispered when we both stood over her crib as she slept.

“I’ve already missed so much…” He muttered and I saddened, looking up to him.

“There’s so many more moments that you get to be apart of now though. Things that almost weren’t possible when everything…you know.” I trailed slightly and he nodded in agreement.

“She’s safe now, and she’s here. That’s all that matters.” His throat cleared and he straightened up, stepping away from the crib making me do so too. I went to leave but his hand reached out to grab my wrist gently. I turned to face him but he just stared quietly.

I went to speak but before I could do so he’d stepped forward, his chest almost touching mine. I heard him inhale deeply, nervously. Slowly his forehead pressed to mine, his skin warm. I lifted my hands, resting them by his neck as his nose brushed mine. He didn’t move any more, didn’t actually press his lips to mine. I could feel that he wanted to, everything told me that he did and that I did.

“Why won’t you?” I asked quietly and he pushed closer again.

“Why won’t you?” He countered, his brows furrowing. “You kissed Elijah.”

“Is that what this is about?” I pulled away, confused.

“No, of course not-“ his hands pulled me back to him. “I just don’t understand. You want him more?”

“No, I-“ I stared at him. I didn’t know what he wanted to hear. Well I did. He wanted me to say I wanted him more. “I care about both of you.” I admitted softly, gently squeezing his upper arm. He tensed slightly under my touch, his bicep flexing in my hand.

There was a silence between us for a short moment, full of thought. I slipped my arms around him, his going over me and his scent swallowing me down.

“I don’t want to hurt you.” I whispered, “either of you.”

“I know.” He mumbled, pushing his face into my neck. “But you’re bound to. So do what you must.”

I knew what he meant. Klaus wanted me to choose, but I couldn’t. They were both family now. I cared for them differently but equally. There was no way to tell him this.

Instead I did what I wanted, and finally kissed him. His kiss was so much softer, portraying his affections. So different to when I first kissed Elijah. His hands slid up, pushing the sides of my breasts up and together before he cupped my face.

He pulled apart from me upon the sound of footsteps approaching, but Elijah had already seen. I felt myself flood with guilt, my face going hot again even as Klaus hid me from view. “Elijah-“ Klaus tried but it must’ve hurt him more than expected.

“No, Niklaus. You have known of my affections towards her from the day that I brought her and Hayley home. You know the day that you daggered me before you pushed yourself upon her-“

“I did no such thing.” He snapped back, his anger bubbled quickly, defended raising. “It isn’t my fault that she’s fallen for us both- nor that we’ve both taken to her. I’ve done nothing you haven’t.” I could feel Klaus’s glare, even when it wasn’t on me.

“You’ve done despicable things.” Elijah’s voice lowered, like a threat. “Do you truly believe she could ever-“

“Don’t, you dare.” Klaus growled out. I reached to grab his wrist but he’d already moved, practically nose to nose with Elijah. We all knew it was an unfair fight, Klaus was biologically proven to win this.

“Please, don’t-“ I whimpered but Elijah lunged first. I hadn’t expected him to be the one to start to properly but soon enough they were at each other’s throats. Hope was woke up, screaming and crying from all the noise. Hayley came rushing out, then Rebekah with Marcel. I tried to pull Klaus off Elijah, but his arm shot out. I stumbled back, Hayley caught me quickly, keeping me back as Elijah’s pain filled cry bounced off the walls. Klaus’s body was heaving, his mouth bloody and eyes bright gold as he looked back at me. If was like he was a whole other being.

After a few blinks, they settled back to blue. From angry to betrayed when he took a step toward me and Hayley moved to block him. Just a second later he had vanished, using his supernatural speed to leave. Rebekah rushed to Elijah, cursing him for challenging Klaus and getting bitten.

I was mad with both of them, but even more so with myself. I didn’t know what to do, I couldn’t say anything to make it better. If I chose, it would be worse. If I didn’t, things still wouldn’t get better.

Still, the next day I peeked my head into Elijah’s room. He looked so weak, wrecked with pain. Hesitantly, I came over to his bed and grabbed the hanker chief on his side table to wipe the sweat from his face. He groaned loudly, looking up at me and breathing shallowly. “Y/N…”

“Yeah…” I whispered and gently touched his shoulder to show I was there. He was too half was bare, his chest slick with sweat and rising and falling drastically.

“Forgive me.” He breathed out, his eyes closing and tongue wetting his lips.

“I do.” I nodded, smiling faintly as he seemed to fade out of consciousness.

Soon enough, Klaus was asking for forgiveness too. He came to my room, standing in the doorway with his hands in his pockets as I got ready for bed.

“I didn’t think.” He admitted, “he just…he was going to tell you things and I can’t-“ his voice broke and he turned his head down. “I wouldn’t hurt you.”

“I know that.” I assured, getting up and going over to touch his face. “Klaus, I know you wouldn’t.” I whispered with a small smile, my thumb brushing over his cheek.

“I’m sorry.”

And I forgave him too.

It was impossible to keep away from either of them, even when so tried they would catch on and bring me back to one of them. To both of them.

Hayley had come in one day, sat down with me and told me she was going to be marrying Jackson.

“I want you to walk me down the aisle.” She said quietly, like she was nervous I might say no.

“Of course I will!” I beamed and pulled her straight into a hug.

Time moved so quickly on the run up to the wedding. Soon enough Hayley’s dress was picked, and I was helping to finish her hair before getting myself ready. Walking her down the aisle was just magical, in a way so much more magical than the real magic that we’d experienced. Watching her be truly happy, the smile on her face so bright.

It was her day. Yet, for a second my mind wondered and I turned my head, finding both Klaus and Elijah stood up on the balcony looking right at me. Klaus’s face softened to a smile whilst Elijah’s hardened, his face turning away first before his body moved too. I felt a bit of disappointment when he walked off, I glanced at the floor for a second before back up. Klaus was now on his way down, taking Hope from whoever had her and bringing her to Hayley to hold with Jackson. Although Klaus hadn’t been keen on Jackson, or the other wolves in general, they were now going to be apart of Hope’s life whether he wanted them to or not.

“It’s such a sweet dress.” I told Klaus as we watched her squeal and reach for the flowers in Hayley’s hair.

“It is.” He agreed before turning to me, standing almost infront of me so my attention was on him instead of Hope. “And yours is exquisite. You’re exquisite.” The apples of his cheeks blushed slightly as he said so making me do the same.

“You clean up very nicely.” I nodded, glancing at his suit before up at his hair. I turned my head away, “the courtyard is beautiful by the way. How did you even manage to get so many white flowers?”

“Well, I couldn’t have the mother of my child be married out in the woods now could I?” He teased and shrugged his shoulders. “The flowers and the lights were the least I could do.”

“I think the forest could make a lovely place.” I mused and he hummed. “I don’t think they’ll be out there as much now that the wolves have the same…abilities as Hayley. She was talking about getting an apartment actually.” The words came out less supportive than I thought. Of course I wanted her to thrive, be with Jackson and Hope. I’d just never been without her really and if she left then I couldn’t just stay living with Klaus and Elijah, things were already messy enough.

“Mm, I’m not fond of the idea either.” He agreed, “but it’s the right thing.” His head nodded and I did too, because he was right.

“Yeah. I’ve been looking too.” I mumbled, clearing my throat slightly. I felt his eyes more intently now.

“You’re under no obligation to leave. This is your home.” His voice was quieter, his body stepped closer.

“Klaus…” I trailed softly, “I’m ruining things here.” I whispered. “I’m not sure where I’m going yet, and I’ll still have contact with everybody.”

“You aren’t leaving New Orleans.” He stated though his voice still went up slightly as though it were at least somewhat a question.

“I think it would be best to.” I admitted.

Klaus was quiet, abnormally so. After a moment he took my hand in his and we went into the hall next door where everyone was already migrating to. There he pulled me onto the floor, hand on my waist as we danced. I could feel him thinking, his brows slightly pinched together as he pulled me a little closer so that my chest almost touched his.

“I don’t want you to go.” He murmured after a while.

“I know.” I nodded and squeezed his shoulder gently before smoothing along his suit to cup the side of his neck. “I’ll miss you.” I whispered, my eyes watering even though I knew I wasn’t leaving just yet. Klaus squeezed my hand and hip simultaneously before he began to lead me away from the crowds.

Quietly he pushed the bathroom door shut, turning the lock and turning back to me. I sniffed as he dabbed my eyes with a tissue gently. “Don’t cry.” He murmured, leaning down to peck my lips but it only made my eyes run more. “Don’t cry.” He repeated softer again, his mouth coming back to mine in a pattern. When he went to pull back again, I pushed forward keeping my lips of his. Klaus’s hand dropped the tissue to hold my face. His mouth opened a little against mine, both of us started to get more eager. I could taste the mint on his tongue, slightly over powered by the wine he’d had earlier.

“Mmph…” I breathed against him, my hands pulling slightly at his tie. I felt his hands slide down, gripping the backs of my thighs. A small gasp left me against him when my body was lifted. I pulled away slightly when I sat up on the sink but he’d already kissed me again. I moaned into his mouth when my dress was hiked up, my bare thighs on the cold marble. “Klaus..” I breathed when he pulled back to look down.

“I’ve got you.” He whispered, his hands reaching for my underwear. My breathing got shallow when they were pulled down, all the way off my ankles.

“Klaus, I’ve…” I stated at him, I couldn’t get the words out. He looked back at me, his pupils blown.

“What’s wrong?”

“I’ve never…” my head shook ever so slightly and he looked confused for a moment before he softened.

“Oh” he hesitated and looked around. I guess a bathroom wasn’t exactly an intimate setting for my first time. “I’ll…we can go upstairs.” He muttered, stuffing my panties into his trouser pocket and lifting me off the sink. His mouth pressed to mine again as he pushed my dress back down to cover me. “Come with me.” His hand wrapped around mine, quickly pulling me out and through all the people to the stairs. My face was still hot, my heart still pattering. I could feel his need starting to thrum through him when he opened his bedroom door and lead me in. The door was shut and locked behind us before he let out a soft sigh of relief and pressed his forehead to mind, arms around my waist again. “You okay?”

“Yeah.” I nodded and shut my eyes.

“We don’t have to.” He murmured, tilting his head back to kiss my forehead. I pressed close, my entire body against his as I took in his scent and his heat.

“I want to.” I whispered, looking up at him quietly as I pushed my palms up along his shirt and sliding his jacket off his shoulders. His chest broadened slightly as he let it fall from his arms to the floor. He began to undo his tie and I reached behind to try get the zip of my dress. A second layer his tie was gone and shirt was open. I was spun around and his fingers had dragged the zip down quickly. I breathed in deeply, my back arching at the smallest touch.

“You’re beautiful.” He murmured, and I could feel his fingers trace them. The marks that’d been inflicted across the different foster homes. I shivered when his lips pressed to the skin. Slowly I straightened back up and let the dress fall, leaving me entirely bare. I could feel his eyes go down the back of me, I stared forward, my eyes landing on the large mirror on the opposite wall making my face flush. I met his eyes in the reflection, a wave of embarrassment hitting me.

“I…”

“It’s alright.” He murmured, kissing my temple and then my neck gently before getting his shirt off. I watched him in the mirror as he stepped out of his trousers, his eyes met mine as he gripped the band of his boxers. He paused, only pulling them down after I nodded. I felt it before I saw it. I turned around quickly to look making him chuckle. Both hands rest out on my hips, keeping me at a close proximity.

I couldn’t help but stare for a moment, the most I’d seen was through a screen so to have him there, presented proudly, it was completely new and different.

His fingers stroked the skin along the sides of my body, the quiet between us comfortable as I slowly calmed. Not completely, but enough.

“Come here, love.” He guided, his hands not pulling just leading me to his bed. I was lifted with ease, set down on the sheets; the duvet pushed to one side. A shaky breath left me when he had me lay back. I didn’t like that I couldn’t see him so I kept sitting up making him laugh softly. “Sweetheart…”

“I can’t see you.” I whispered and he smiled, crawling over me and kissing my mouth.

“How am I supposed to taste you when you’re trying to see my face?” He murmured against me and I groaned quietly.

“Don’t do that.” I mumbled, pushing my face into his neck and smelling him. “I’m not…I wasn’t expecting to be naked in front of you.”

“I don’t care about that.” He assured, kissing my ear and rubbing my thigh. “Every little detail of you is perfect. Every inch of skin, every little mark or mole, every hair. Everything.” His nose nudged me, his mouth soon gently sucking at my throat making me grasp him.

“Klaus-“ I whimpered, digging my fingers into his back.

“Lay back now, you can still see me.” He muttered, and slowly I did. My eyes felt heavy when his hands pulled my hips up, encouraging my legs to wrap around him as his teeth grazed my throat. For a split second I thought he might bite down but his mouth moved back to press against mine.

I let out a muffled noise against him when I felt the head of his cock nudge against me. My nails pressed into his back again with growing anticipation and I couldn’t help but try to look. The second my lips broke from his, he was chuckling. His fingers tangled my hair as he pulled my head back to the pillow. His eyes were so dark I could barely tell where his pupil met his iris.

“So desperate to watch.” He muttered as he pressed his forehead against mine, keeping me down with him. His touch brushed over my thighs, soon just gently tracing my pussy, finding my clit quickly. His fingers teased, circling the nerves whilst his cock still rest just at my entrance. “You’re so wet…” Klaus mumbled, his breath hot against me, “don’t even need my fingers first.”

But he let me have them to begin with anyways and I was glad he did. Even just having one finger curl into me was strange, pleasant but strange. Another pushed in soon after, both pumping into me slowly. I breathed shallowly against his own lips for a while before his finger tips pressed into me, a part of me which seemed to make my body buzz.

“There she is.” He whispered before the game seemed to begin. Every time I moaned he grinned wider, his fingers would move faster, hitting over and over.

“Klaus!” I cried, holding onto him as tight as I could. He said nothing, just continued until everything else seemed to fade out. My body shook and my vision went.

When it came back, all I could hear was heavy breaths. Klaus’s face was still hovering above mine, his hands now on my face as his lips moved as if speaking. I groaned and looked down between us, seeing him and feeling him inside me.

“Love?” His voice broke through and I moaned back to him, spreading my legs wider against the bed, dropping them from his waist. The warmth of his hand stroked the back of my thigh, as I looked back up at him. “Okay?” He murmured and I nodded.

I could feel my hands tense, gripping his back tight. His muscle twitched beneath my touch but the rest of him stayed still. There was a small silence as he rest inside me, against me, on top of me.

“I love you.” Klaus whispered, his brows furrowed slightly as he glanced away from my eyes. “I love you and, I don’t want you to go.”

“I know.” I whispered back, relaxing my hold on him and moving my hand to cup his cheek. “But I’m here now”

“You’re here now.” He nodded quietly, silent for only a second more before his hips rolled forward, pushing into me slowly.

My fingers moved up to stroke through his hair as he began to built a steady pace. Soon, his mouth was back at my neck, kissing softly and bringing the flesh into his mouth. The combination of his mouth, his cock and before I knew it, his fingers were back on my clit too.

The feeling that began to grow was nothing like what I’d expected, more internally intense. I felt myself tug at his hair without meaning to, my body moving beneath him without control.

I could feel his hand griping me, my arms, hips, thighs. He was everywhere. Each finger pressing a mark that claimed me as his. My hips moved with his, chasing that overwhelming feeling that I so deeply craved. I dragged my nails up his back before getting ahold of his curls, holding his face into my neck as my body began to fall apart.

“Klaus-“ I barely got out before my eyes rolled back. My hold on him went slack and my legs went limp. Klaus slowed quickly and pulled out, leaving me empty and exhausted. Breathlessly, I watched as he stroked his own cock over me, just a few fast strokes before the warm wetness hit my stomach. His arm shook slightly as I held himself up over me.

After a few seconds I shifted for him to drop down beside me, his body quickly pulling mine against him as he kissed at my mouth in short consistent pecks. Energy still seemed to pump through him, his body twitching and hands still wondering but at the same time I could feel him trying to pull back and calm down.

“Klaus” I murmured, cupping his face and watching his eyes close at the contact. “You okay?” I asked softly and he nodded, his arms circling me.

“Are you?” He mumbled, “didn’t hurt you?”

“No, you’d never.” I smiled and he seemed to preen. “It was perfect.” I admitted quietly, hugging him to me. He’d been the perfect amount of gentle before upping it to the perfect amount of roughness. I wasn’t sure what to expect from my first time but, I’d never imagined it to be so good.

“I’ll put the bath on.” He whispered as he kissed my throat one more time.

By morning I was dressed in his shirt, wrapped in his sheets and led on his chest. His skin was hot, radiating warmth until I couldn’t keep my eyes open. His curtains were heavy, blocking any light out as we stayed laying until a knock sounded at his door.

It was only then that I realised what this could’ve done. And immediately I feared that it was Elijah on the other side of the door. My body moved so quickly away from his. The look on his face made my heart clench.

“Klaus? Have you seen Y/N this morning? I haven’t seen her since early last night.” Hayley’s voice yelled through and I softened, relaxing back to the pillows but Klaus had withdrawn now.

“No.” He answered firmly. “I haven’t seen her.” With that, he was out of bed and pulling clothes from his wardrobe.

“Klaus…” I called weakly; apologetically. His back was to me, the muscles tense as I got out of his bed and padded over to him. “I’m sorry.” I whispered and reached for his arm.

“You already regret it.” He muttered, turning his head to look at me from the corner of his eye.

“I don’t.” My head shook and I laced my fingers with his. “I just…I didn’t know what to do.”

“Because you still care for Elijah.”

We were both silent for a second. In that moment I felt Klaus’s words from last night echo through me: “I love you.” And all I’d said was “I know.” Now he was hurting, of course he was, and it was my fault. I loved Klaus, in many ways, but admitting it to him would change everything.

“I don’t know.” I uttered, squeezing his hand. “I care about you.” I tried but he scoffed, though his hand stayed connected to mine. His gaze was hard for only a second before I felt him look me over, eyes lingering. When his Adam’s Apple bobbed, I frowned in slight confusion and moved to be beside him to see in the mirror. “Oh.” I breathed, seeing the clear bruises littering my skin. A full handprint formed on my inner thigh and the dark marks colouring my neck. There was no way of hiding any of this. I didn’t even know how this had happened, he hadn’t hurt me at any point and yet the bruises was strongly suggest otherwise.

When I looked back up at him, his eyes were almost fearful as he vanished for a second before reappearing with some of my clothes. “We need to hide this.” He whispered, lifting my legs to put my sweatpants on. “He’ll think I hurt you. Hayley too, they’ll…” he whined slightly when he lifted the shirt, about to let go on the sweatpants but seeing the bruising on my hips. “I was gentle.” He breathed, his brows pulled together as he carefully removed his hands and grabbed a jumper.

“It’s okay.” I whispered, cooperating and putting my arms through the sweater. “I bruise real easy, Hayley knows that.” I nodded but he didn’t look at all convinced. “It doesn’t even hurt.”

“I’ll…you need blood.”

“No…” I couldn’t drink his blood. As a witch it was practically a crime to. “I’m fine, really.” I gently pushed his offered wrist away. Instead I stepped forward and hugged him, waiting only a second before his arms wrapped around me. “I had a really good night.” I murmured and kissed his cheek.

I didn’t even last a full day before Elijah had noticed a mark of my neck. His vampire features were pushing forward and he pulled me aside. “What happened? If Niklaus bit you, swear help me God-“

“He didn’t.” I shook my head quickly and he frowned.

“Then what…” his words trailed as he glanced me over, his nostrils flared and his hand pulled my jumper slightly to see further. “I see.”

“Elijah…”

“This must have been his attempt to make you stay, I assume?” He scoffed.

“You know about that?”

“It doesn’t take a genius, Y/N. If Hayley’s leaving, it was only a matter of time.” His jaw clenched, and his eyes moved away for a second before he released a breath. “Hayley, she mentioned it last night before the wedding. I was…upset so I left early. I should have come down and…” his teeth seemed to grind. “I should have-“

“Should’ve what? Had me?” I frowned. “You think if you’d come down instead of Klaus the you would’ve slept with me instead?”

“Yes.” He stated simply. “And I wouldn’t have left you battered.”

“He didn’t hurt me.”

“Niklaus is the embodiment of violence. If you ever lay with him again, he’ll-“

“Y/N?” Hayley’s voice called, her eyes confused as she stepped close to pull me away. “What’s going on?”

“She’s slept with Niklaus.” Elijah revealed, his words like venom. “We’ll have someone pack your bags for your departure. I do hope you find your dignity wherever you haunt next.” He spat and I felt my eyes burn with tears. Hayley attempted to defend me but Elijah walked off without acknowledgment.

“Come on.” She whispered, tugging my arm. “He’s just jealous and upset you’re going.”

“I haven’t even found anywhere to go yet.” I whimpered and she squeezed my hand.

“Come live in the apartment with me for a while until you find something.”

So I did. I stayed with Hayley for a while, still in New Orleans. Klaus would come over sometimes to collect Hope, but I’d stay hidden in the spare room. A couple times he had opened the door, just coming in to kiss the side of my head as I pretended to sleep.

After some time I knew I needed to leave. It became increasingly apparent. So I left, even if I had nowhere to go. Hayley thought it gotten an apartment just outside of NOLA but the unfortunate reality was that I slept in the back of the old car that we’d stolen when we were younger. I worked for pathetic amounts of money and realised that struggling to live when alone was so much worse than when Hayley and I had done it together. We’d slept in the car so may time in the past but now I didn’t have her werewolf heat beside me, or her voice to comfort me. I couldn’t go back, it was embarrassing and Elijah was right. Id lost my dignity, but not to Klaus, just to myself.

Plausibly the worst person to find me was Elijah, and yet of course if was he who came into the restaurant I was now working at. With a beautiful woman of course. And I got assigned their table.

I expected annoyance, smugness perhaps or for him to pretend not to recognise me. But his eyes were so solemn when he looked back at me. His fingers dropping the drinks menu as he pushed his chair back and stood before me. I stepped back, asking him to sit back down as to not cause a scene. He did so, but his new girlfriend didn’t look impressed.

Still, they drank and they ate. Elijah had Gia leave to the car before himself. When I brought the card machine over he finally spoke.

“You should come back.” He told me, his face one of concern. “I never meant what I said, I never wanted you to go.” But he had packed my bags himself.

“Just…tap the card.” I whispered, pushing the machine closer until it went through.

“Y/N.” He murmured, his hand reaching for my wrist. “Forgive me.”

“You never did anything wrong.”

Instead it was me. I’d done everything wrong. I’d fallen for both brothers, and I’d let them fall for me too. I clung to Hayley like a leach, living life through her. Now I lived the life I deserved. Without any of the people I love.

[vampirediariesdaily]

HAYLEY MARSHALL in S04│E05 “The Killer”

[sxendrall]

Phoebe Tonkin as Hayley Marshall ⤷ TO 2x14 "I Love you, Goodbye."

[funnyao3tags]

I approve, canon in this show is way too depressing

If you're curious about the fic here it is

[fandoms--fluff]

A Kid

Werewitch daughter Mikaelson reader x Elijah Mikaelson and Hayley Marshall

Summary: Little does your family know, you're not wanting an 'actual' kid

Warnings: implied sex?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Can I have a kid?" You come bounding into the courtyard of the abattoir where your mom, dad, uncle Kol, uncle Klaus, and Aunt Rebekah are sitting.

Elijah and Hayley immediately go into panic mode. "Absolutely not, you're sixteen. You're way too young to have a kid or even think about it, " your dad says sternly.

"What? Why?! They're so cute." You attempt to plead with them. Kol bursts out laughing, no longer able to hold it in. And of course what he says doesn't help matters in the slightest. "Yeah, why can't the baby werewitch have a kid. It would be spectacular entertainment." You grumble at the nickname he insists calling you before turning back with pleading puppy eyes to your parents.

Hayley bites her lip at the cute face youre making. Though it doesn't last long until Elijah notices and cuts that out right away. "Hayley, you are aware she is sixteen. Much to young to have a kid. There is no exception to you bearing a kid, Y/n. Not until you're at least thirty." He says, making Rebekah scoff.

"Thirty? Oh, brother, you're clearly living in another world. I mean, look what happened when you banned me from men in the past millenia." She crosses her legs and leans back further into the couch. Her seated position showed off her expensive heels.

Your eyebrows scrunch together. "What does men have to do with any of this?" You ask confused and a little disgusted. You're not exactly a fan of the male species. Even if your Aunt Rebekah says all in a matter of them ever since you were old enough to project your distaste of that gender as a whole.

"What do men have to do with this?" Klaus raises a brow, repeating your question. "Brother, little wolf, surely you have given her the knowledge of at least what it takes to create a child," klaus says, a grin appearing on his face.

"Why would they have knowledge about it?" You look between your uncle and parents. "Did you have a farm or something?" You ask.

"What does a farm have to do with this?" Your mother ask. Everyone is confused as of now, not just concerned. "Cause that's where kids come from? I thought you'd at least know, you're the smart one." You turn to your dad.

Kol snorts out yet another laugh, but downcasts his eyes when Elijah's gaze befalls him. "Are we talking of the same thing? You say kid, but you are implying it comes from a farm. And your mother has had the...discussion with you" Elijah looks to Hayley, who nods in answer.

"What does that gross conversation have to do with me getting a baby goat?" You ask, disgusted with what they and apparently everyone else is implying.

"A...A baby goat? That's what you meant" Rebekah is the one to break the silence. You look over to your aunt and nod your head enthusiastically. "Yeah, they're so tiny and cute and I want one really bad."

"Oh, thank god." Your mom almost weeps in relief, your dad not far behind her. "What did you think I meant?!" You ask bewildered.

"That's you wanted a real kid. A human baby." Elijah says with a scowl. "Ew, gross. Never. Babies and men are disgusting." You show your detest for this topic in your facial expression.

"Why would I ever want a human baby?! I'm not even an adult." Your face continues to twist in disgust. "Just the way you phrased it and neglected to mention you meant a goat in the beginning, baby werewitch." Klaus says, standing and wrapping an arm around your shoulders.

"Now, why dont we go find you a baby goat while your mother and father unthaw from their frozen relief stance, hm?" He says with a smirk.

"Yes!" You exclaim. Before Elijah or Hayley, or anyone else could say anything, your uncle vamped you both away in search of baby goats.

And let's just say your parents were less than pleased when you came back with a three pound tiny baby goat that likes to make a lot of sound. The upside though is the baby goat tends to keep you from getting yourself into trouble in the quarter. Of course unless Kol is the culprit- no matter how much they yell at him.

The baby goat in question:

Such a cutie pie!

And the newest Mikaelson.

[wholoveseggs]

Hello! I've been binging all your works recently and I was reminded of an idea I had a while back and I'd love it if you brought it to life <3

Reader is friends with Camille or Hayley (or even Rebekah) and they're just getting back into the dating scene after getting out of a bad relationship. Camille (or whoever) asks if Elijah (or Klaus) could flirt with her at an upcoming party, just to give her a little confidence boost as she gets back into the swing of dating. He agrees, even if it is a weird request and the two end up hitting it off really well and he asks her out on a proper date (was this an intentional set up? who's to say....)

(optional potential for angst if Reader finds out the initial flirting only happened as a favor/charity case and starts wondering if their entire relationship is even real)

Sincerely {Part One}

18+ ---- {Masterlist} {Tag-List}

Part One

{Elijah Mikaelson x F!Reader} A night at the Mikaelson ball leaves you swept into Elijah’s orbit… until the truth pulls you back into a depression you were trying to escape from...

♡♡ Hiiiii anon!! I love this idea so much I had to make two parts! ...I guess this is my ~Mikaelson~ version of cinderella.... what you say is optional, I decided is the whole damn plot... Also! this is my first smutless series ... enjoy ♡♡

5.3k words - Warnings: NO SMUT, but features lots of fluff, angst and romantic tension, Hayley and Rebekah make-over squad (intimidating), Klaus being an ass, intense eye contact, Elijah flirting via a history lesson (hot), emotional whiplash, && the heartbreak that comes when you realize the fairytale isn’t real... yet.

{Part Two}

No one threw a party quite like Rebekah Mikaelson. Over the many years that you and Hayley had been best friends, you had heard all about her parties. Full of laughter, dancing, and the finest liquor money could buy. It sounded amazing, but your ex-boyfriend Mike didn't enjoy parties… so you had never been to one before.

He didn't enjoy most things, actually. Not when they didn’t revolve around him.

So when Hayley burst into your apartment with a garment bag and a curling iron, declaring that you were going to the Mikaelson ball tonight, you laughed.

And then panicked.

"Absolutely not," you said, dodging the brush she was already brandishing like a weapon. "I'm not really ball material."

Hayley gave you a once-over, arching a brow at your ratty sweatpants and the hair that hadn’t seen a brush in days.

You crossed your arms over your chest. "You can't just spring this on me. I don't have anything to wear, and I don't... Look, I'm a mess."

"I'm well aware," Hayley replied. "That's why I brought backup."

The doorbell rang.

"Oh, god," you said, backing up a step.

But Hayley was already at the door, opening it with a flourish. Rebekah swept into the room, blonde hair bouncing as she set her sights on you. She was beautiful and confident and everything you wished you could be.

"Oh, dear. You are a bit of a disaster."

"Thank you for the honesty," you mumbled. "Apologies for lacking the perfect vampire constitution."

"Nothing a little blush can't fix," she said, waving her hand. "Don't worry. I have everything under control."

"You really don't," you said, but both of them were ignoring you, chatting animatedly about dresses and hairstyles.

"I don't have anything to wear, it's too late to-"

"Yes, you do." Rebekah thrust a garment bag into your hands. "My dress should fit you."

"This is ridiculous," you said.

Hayley was already ushering you into the bathroom, telling you to hurry because they only had an hour to work.

"One hour!" she called after you.

You rolled your eyes, shutting the door and taking a deep breath.

The garment bag hung from the back of the door, innocuous and threatening all at once. You stared at it for a moment, then unzipped it carefully like it might explode.

It didn’t. Instead, it shimmered.

A beautiful velvet blue dress caught the light in delicate ripples. You let out a breath and reached out, running your fingers over the fabric.

"Hurry up!"

"All right, all right," you grumbled, pulling off your clothes and sliding the dress over your head. It hugged every curve, the back plunging past your waist. It was more skin than you were used to showing. You weren’t sure if that thrilled or terrified you.

"Let me see!" Rebekah knocked on the door.

"Hold your horses," you called, smoothing your hands down the front of the dress.

They didn’t even wait for you to finish zipping it before dragging you out to sit on the edge of the couch. Hayley tackled your hair while Rebekah handled makeup, the two of them bickering affectionately as they worked around each other like a well-oiled glam squad.

"Ow! okay, that’s attached to my head," you muttered as Hayley tugged a curl into place.

"Beauty is pain," she replied cheerfully, curling another section. "Now hold still."

Rebekah smoothed something over your cheekbone. "We’re going soft and sultry. You already have the eyes, we’re just enhancing the drama."

By the time they were done, your hair fell in glossy waves around your shoulders, your lashes were long and fluttery, and your lips had just enough sheen to catch the light. You barely recognized the person blinking back at you in the mirror.

You didn’t look like the girl who spent months hiding from her own reflection. You looked like someone who belonged at a ball.

"One last thing," Rebekah said.

You turned to her, raising a brow. She held out a necklace, made of glittering diamonds… and a very large ruby in the center.

"That's way too much," you said, shaking your head.

"It's my party," Rebekah said, stepping closer and draping the necklace around your neck. "If I say it's the finishing touch, then it's the finishing touch."

"Are these real diamonds?"

"Of course," Rebekah said.

"Rebekah," you started.

"I'm loaning it to you," she said. "You can keep them for the evening, and I'll come get them tomorrow."

Your fingers found the ruby instinctively, thumb brushing over its polished surface. It didn’t feel like something that belonged to you. But maybe, just for tonight…you could pretend.

"Can I talk to you two for a second?"

Klaus looked up first, lazily amused, already halfway through a glass of bourbon. Elijah glanced over as well, more curious than concerned.

It was just before the party. The compound was nearly ready. Candlelight glowed along the walls, soft music filtered in from the courtyard, and the scent of fresh flowers clung to the air. A few staff moved in and out of the hall, but this room was quiet. Tucked away from the chaos.

Hayley stepped inside and shut the door behind her. She stayed by it for a second, like she was still deciding whether this was a good idea.

"I need a favor," she said.

Klaus leaned back in his chair, arms stretching wide along the back like he was settling into a throne. "I’m sorry, Hayley, but I can't give you another child. At least not yet. Maybe in a few-"

She hurled an unopened bottle of whiskey at his head with the kind of force that would kill a normal person. Klaus ducked and caught it midair, grinning like he just won a prize.

Elijah sighed, setting down the glass he was polishing and straightening the cuffs of his jacket. "What can we help you with, Hayley?"

She glared at Klaus as she crossed the room, then turned her attention to Elijah. "My friend is coming tonight. The one I told you about. She’s been through a lot this year."

Klaus snorted and took a sip of his drink.

Hayley ignored him. "She had a bad breakup and hasn’t really left her apartment since. The guy treated her like garbage. Told her she was nothing. It got in her head. She doesn’t think she’s worth anything anymore. And I need you to help me convince her otherwise."

Klaus raised a brow, swirling the glass in his hand. "And what exactly do you want us to do, love?"

"Nothing complicated. Just flirt with her. Make her feel good. Seen."

Klaus tilted his head, amused. "What makes you think we’re qualified for such a task?" He leaned back again, waiting for her answer with a smirk already tugging at his mouth.

"You know why," Hayley said, crossing her arms tight over her chest.

"I think I have to hear you say it," Klaus replied, eyes gleaming.

Hayley refused to bite. She turned toward Elijah instead.

Elijah straightened subtly. "I’m not sure how comfortable I am-"

"Please," she said, cutting him off. "I wouldn’t ask if it wasn’t important."

There was a pause. Elijah’s brow furrowed, but then he gave a single nod. "Very well."

Klaus scoffed behind his glass. "I’m not going to help unless you say the words."

Hayley sighed, leveling him with a look. "Because the two of you are the most charming and handsome men I know."

Klaus beamed like he had just been crowned prom king. Elijah remained still, but the corner of his mouth twitched.

"But you also have the personality of a rabid dog," Hayley added.

"Well," Klaus said, setting his drink aside. "I suppose we can do this for you, darling little wolf. But only because you asked so nicely."

The courtyard was already glowing, lit from below by soft golds and flickering candles, with strings of fairy lights webbing across the balconies like constellations. You looked up at it all with your mouth hanging open.

Hayley had described it before, but it was so much more. The music was a low, rhythmic thrum, and the air was warm, heavy with the scent of jasmine and champagne.

And there were people everywhere. Dresses spun through the air, and laughter danced above the melody.

You felt frozen for a second. Not in fear, exactly. Just in awe. This didn’t feel like something you were supposed to walk into. It felt like something you were supposed to watch from a window or a screen.

"Hey," Hayley said, nudging your shoulder gently. "You good?"

You swallowed, nodding.

Rebekah stepped closer, reaching for the necklace around your throat and adjusting the ruby pendant. She didn't say anything, but her eyes softened as she smoothed her hands over your shoulders.

Then she linked her arm with yours and began steering you into the crowd.

"Remember," she whispered. "This is my party. That means everyone here is beneath us."

You giggled, and some of the tension bled out of your body. Hayley grabbed your other arm, and you let yourself be led further into the courtyard.

"There are some people I want you to meet," Hayley said.

"Oh I don't... I'm not sure-"

But it was too late, they were steering you towards two of the most attractive men you had ever seen. You knew who they were, Rebekah's notorious brothers. One of them was dark-haired and serious, with a jawline that could cut glass and a perfectly fitted suit. The other was blonde, smirking like he knew all of your secrets, and his tie was loosened and untucked like he couldn't be bothered to keep up appearances.

"Elijah. Klaus."

Both men looked up, and for a split second, you thought they would look right past you, these weren't the kind of men who usually gave you attention. But the blonde smiled and stepped forward, holding out a hand.

"I'm Niklaus," he said, taking your hand in his and placing a gentle kiss to the back of it.

Your heart did a funny little dance in your chest. "Hi."

He kept hold of your hand as he tilted his head. "And what's your name?"

"Y/N," you replied, and his smile widened.

"Y/N," he repeated, his accent wrapping around the syllables and making them sound exotic. "A beautiful name for a beautiful woman."

You laughed and shook your head, a blush creeping over your cheeks. You had no idea how to respond to him. No one had ever spoken to you like this.

"Oh, look at that blush. So precious," he said, finally releasing your hand and stepping back. "Isn't she precious, Elijah?"

The other man shifted closer, and the scent of his cologne made your stomach flutter. You were so distracted by it that it took you a second to realize he was also holding out a hand. You took it, and he pressed a soft kiss to the back of your knuckles, sending a shiver down your spine.

"Quite," he murmured, his gaze lingering on your lips.

You felt a rush of warmth at the attention, the first spark of attraction you had felt in months. It was nice to be seen.

Rebekah squeezed your arm, breaking the spell. "We're going to leave you to it. Have fun, Y/N."

"Oh, um," you said, not wanting to be left alone.

But they were already gone. Leaving you alone with two strangers. Two beautiful strangers.

You stood there awkwardly, not knowing what to do. You could feel their eyes on you, taking in every detail, and it made your skin prickle with heat.

"So... Uh. What do you guys do for work?"

It was a stupid question, and you regretted it as soon as you asked. But it was the only thing that came to mind.

"We don't... exactly have jobs," Klaus said, grinning. "Not the traditional sort, anyway."

"Right... I knew that." You laughed nervously, fiddling with the necklace. "Vampires don't really work, do they?"

"Not typically, no," Elijah said. "But there are ways to pass the time."

"Like throwing parties," you offered. "Rebekah’s specialty,"

"Among other things," Klaus said, flashing another smile. "Our sister enjoys being the center of attention."

He took a step closer, tilting his head as his gaze traveled down your figure once more; lingering a moment too long.

"But tonight, I’d say you might be giving her a run for her money."

You blinked. "Me?"

"That dress," he said, voice dropping into something lower, smoother. "It’s sinful. And you're wearing it like it was stitched for you by the devil himself."

Your mouth opened, then closed again.

Klaus smiled, pleased with your fluster. "Tell me something, love. Are you single?"

The question landed too fast. Too sharp.

Your breath caught. "What?"

He chuckled, lifting a brow like it was nothing. "I mean, any man would be mad to let you walk out looking like that unattended. But maybe you're into that. A little danger. A little attention."

You swallowed, throat suddenly tight. The heat on your skin wasn’t from his flattery anymore. It was that sinking, curling pressure in your chest. The kind you knew too well.

Your ex Mike used to talk like that.

Fast. Intense. Like you were being swept up in something heady and grand. Until it wasn’t fun anymore. Until the compliments turned into cages.

Your fingers pressed against the ruby at your throat. You forced a smile, one that didn’t quite reach your eyes.

"I should get some air," you said, voice thinner than you meant it to be. "It’s… it’s warm in here."

You turned before either brother could say another word, slipping into the crowd as fast as your heels would let you.

You didn't stop until you reached the second floor balcony. The cool air hit your cheeks, and you closed your eyes for a moment. It helped, a little.

The voices in the courtyard echoed up from below, the music filtering out into the cool night air. You wrapped your fingers around the stone railing, taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly.

The door opened behind you, and you glanced back. It was Elijah, standing there with his hands clasped behind him.

"Are you alright?" he asked.

"Fine," you replied. "It was just... too hot in there."

"Ah."

You expected him to turn and go, but he didn't. Instead, he moved closer, leaning against the railing a few feet away from you.

He held out a bottle of water. "I thought you might need this."

"Oh," you said, surprised. "Thank you."

You took the bottle, twisting off the cap and taking a long sip. It was cool and refreshing, washing away some of the dryness in your mouth.

Elijah was quiet, but his presence was soothing. You glanced at him out of the corner of your eye, curious about him.

"How long have you known Hayley?" he asked.

"Only a couple of years," you replied. "But we've become close. She's... she's been a good friend to me."

He nodded, looking out over the courtyard. "She is a good person."

"Yes, she is," you agreed, smiling.

There was a pause. You weren't sure what else to say, but you didn't want him to leave. You turned back to the railing, enjoying the way the cool air caressed your bare shoulders.

"I'm sorry if my brother upset you," he said.

"He didn't," you replied. "It's just... I'm not used to people talking like that. At least not to me."

Elijah tilted his head. "How do you mean?"

You shrugged, tracing the curve of the railing with one finger. "I've never been the type of girl men notice."

"I find that hard to believe."

You glanced up, startled. He was looking at you, expression sincere. He held your gaze, his eyes dark and bottomless. You could feel the intensity of his focus, the way it pulled at something inside you. It was intoxicating.

Your pulse fluttered. You bit your lip, looking away. "Thank you," you whispered.

"You're welcome," he replied, and his voice was deeper than before.

"So... What's it like living for centuries?" You tried to keep your tone light, but the words still felt silly. Elijah's lips twitched.

"You never asked Rebekah?"

"No. She scares me a little."

Elijah laughed. It was a quiet, reserved thing. But it lit up his face, making him look younger. Less serious.

"I suppose I don't know any other way, it's like asking a fish what it's like to swim."

"That makes sense," you replied. "Though, I'm sure it's not without its perks. Like all the history, art and culture you get to witness."

"Those are some of the best parts," he agreed, his expression softening. "I've lived in New Orleans for a long time, and I always enjoy seeing what changes it goes through."

"Although, there is always a point where the new becomes the normal and the old is forgotten." You sighed, leaning forward against the railing. "I've spent my whole life living in the past, and now the present feels so daunting."

Elijah looked thoughtful, considering. "It is true, things change. But the important things remain."

"Like what?"

"Music," he said. "Laughter. Love. These things will always exist, no matter how much the world changes." He paused, his eyes catching yours again. "And you can create your own history, if you wish."

You smiled, tilting your head. "Have you done that? Made your own history, I mean."

"In my own way, yes." He said, a private smile crossing his lips.

You looked at him, wondering what his story was. Wondering what it would be like to see the world through his eyes.

"So, is this a normal day for you, then? Parties and champagne and..." you trailed off, glancing down.

"Occasionally," he replied, amusement tugging at his mouth.

You straightened a bit, turning to lean your hip against the railing and look at him.

"I bet it's a nice break from... whatever it is vampires do during the day," you said.

He laughed softly, nodding. "It is, although I prefer peace and quiet if I'm being honest... Would you like a tour?"

"Sure," you said, feeling a little thrill.

"Follow me," he said, holding out an arm for you.

You hesitated a moment before sliding your arm through his, allowing him to lead you back inside the building.

He walked slowly, guiding you down a long hallway. It was quieter here, and the music and laughter faded into a soft hum.

You looked around, taking in the details. Everything was old and ornate, but it was well cared for. You couldn't help but notice the art and sculptures dotting the walls and tables.

"That's beautiful," you said, gesturing toward a painting hanging in an alcove.

"It's one of Niklaus'," Elijah replied.

"Really?" You studied it more closely, taking in the brush strokes and colors.

"Yes. He has a keen eye for beauty."

"He's talented," you said, smiling.

Elijah led you down a smaller hallway, stopping in front of a set of doors.

"This is the library," he said, opening them.

You gasped. It was a huge, spacious room, lined with bookshelves and lit by soft lamps. You stepped inside, turning in a slow circle.

"This is amazing," you said, gazing at all the ancient books lining the walls.

"It is," he agreed, moving toward a shelf and running his fingers along the spines.

You watched him, admiring the way he touched the books with reverence, like they were precious things. You wondered how many times he'd read each one, if he had a favorite.

"Have you read all of these?" you asked.

"Most of them," he said, smiling as he pulled a book from the shelf.

He flipped to a page and showed it to you. It was a detailed drawing of a necklace. The very same one resting against your skin.

Your hand reached up instinctively to touch it.

"That’s…" you trailed off. "This is the same one?"

He nodded, stepping closer.

"It once belonged to a noblewoman in 15th-century France," he said, voice quiet. "Her husband had many affairs, wasn't subtle about it either. But every time he was caught he would buy her a new piece of jewelry to make up for it."

His fingers brushed yours as he moved the pendant between his fingertips. His touch was gentle, feather-light.

"She then sold all of her jewels to Rebekah so she could run away with her lover," he continued, smiling. "It's a symbol of choosing freedom and happiness over safety and comfort."

You blinked, stunned. "And now Rebekah lends it to random girls at her parties?"

Elijah smiled. "Rebekah doesn't lend that necklace lightly. And you're hardly random."

The compliment hung in the air, soft and startling. You blushed, ducking your head.

"Would you like to see more?" Elijah asked, holding out his hand.

"Please," you said, slipping your fingers into his.

His palm was cool against yours, and his touch was firm but gentle. He guided you through the halls, pointing out different rooms and telling you stories about each one. You hung onto his every word, the way he described the past and present with equal reverence.

You passed a pair of glass doors that looked out over the courtyard. The sound of a string quartet floated through, and the laughter and chatter of the guests spilled out into the hall.

"Do you want to dance?" Elijah asked, glancing toward the music.

"With you?"

"Unless you wish me to fetch Niklaus?" he teased, raising a brow.

You smiled, shaking your head.

"No, I mean... I'd love to."

He opened the door, leading you back under the glow of the fairy lights. You could see the crowd below, swirling and laughing and dancing.

He pulled you gently toward him, one hand settling at your waist, the other holding yours.

The music washed over you, slow and sweet. You swayed together, his eyes fixed on yours, your free hand came up to rest against his shoulder.

"Thank you for the tour," you said, smiling up at him.

"It was my pleasure," he replied, his expression soft.

"I'm not really a party girl, but this is nice."

"What do you like to do, then?" he asked, curiosity coloring his tone.

"Honestly? I'm happiest with a book and a cup of coffee."

Elijah chuckled. "I can appreciate that."

"Yeah, Hayley says I need to get out more," you said.

"I agree. You're very easy to talk to."

You blushed. "That's because you're good at making conversation."

"No, it's because you're interesting."

"Really?" you asked, unable to keep the surprise out of your voice.

"Yes. You have a keen mind and a sharp wit," he said, smiling.

You shook your head, laughing. "No one's ever said that to me before."

"Then they are fools," he replied, his grip on your waist tightening slightly.

You fell silent, letting the music wash over you. It was nice, dancing with Elijah. He made you feel safe and desirable in a way no one had before.

The song ended, and you reluctantly let go of him, stepping back. For a moment your hands lingered, still linked, neither of you wanting to be the first to pull away.

Then he gently pulled you in, and his lips met yours in a soft kiss. Your eyes fluttered closed as the world around you disappeared, melting away until there was nothing but his touch and the warmth that bloomed through you.

When you parted, it was with a shy smile. He tucked a lock of hair behind your ear, his fingers brushing along your jaw.

"That was... unexpected," you said.

He smiled, leaning in to kiss you again. "Good or bad?"

"Very good," you whispered, wrapping your arms around his neck.

The music began again, a soft melody floating through the air. You pressed closer to him, letting him lead as you swayed together.

"Would you like another drink?" Elijah asked after a while.

"Sure," you replied, not quite ready to let go of him.

He smiled and held out his hand. You took it, walking beside him as he led you back downstairs into the courtyard.

As you reached the bar, Elijah glanced toward a staff member passing by with a tray of empty flutes.

"I’ll be right back," he said. "Going to fetch a bottle of something special."

You nodded, dazed, your pulse still skimming just below your skin.

Elijah disappeared into the crowd, leaving you standing by the bar, warm and a little breathless. You pressed your fingers to your mouth and laughed softly to yourself. It felt silly, but… real. Like something was shifting inside you, something that hadn’t moved in a long time.

You turned slightly, meaning to watch him go, when a familiar voice cut through the hum of music and chatter.

"She’s practically glowing," Klaus said, his tone smug. "Though I could swear I had her blushing first.”

You froze as another familiar voice joined in, this time Hayley. “That’s not what this is about.”

“Isn’t it? You bring her here, dress her up, and put her in Elijah’s path… of course he plays the perfect gentleman. But even for him, I’d say he’s laying it on a bit thick tonight.” Klaus swirled his drink lazily. 

Hayley’s voice softened, almost lost under the murmur of the crowd. "She needed to feel special, Nik. That’s all. And he did exactly that. Did you see the smile on her face? Dancing with her on the balcony? She’ll be talking about that for months instead of her stupid ex."

Klaus gave a low, amused hum. "If you say so. Still, quite the performance."

"Shhh," Hayley warned, her voice dropping. "I don’t know where they went, and I don’t want Y/N hearing you.”

Your blood ran cold. The air left your lungs, leaving you lightheaded and sick. That’s when the ringing started in your ears.

You stared at the polished bar top. The ruby necklace burned against your throat.

You let him kiss you.

You let yourself believe it meant something.

That a man like that could want someone like you.

Slowly, you unclasped the necklace. The sound of it sliding off your skin was the only thing you could hear above the blood rushing in your ears.

You turned around.

Hayley was the first to spot you, her smile faltering. "Y/N-"

You walked straight toward them.

Klaus stood straighter, caught off guard. Hayley stepped forward, hands lifted like she was about to explain something that didn’t need explaining.

You held out the necklace.

"This was a nice touch," you snapped, "Expensive. Just enough sparkle to make the humiliation really shine."

"Wait, just-" Hayley started.

You dropped the necklace at her feet. Hayley stared down at it. When she looked up, her face was stricken.

"Tell Elijah I don't need his fucking pity, and I certainly don't need yours," you said, eyes fixed on hers.

You turned, pushing through the crowd without looking back. You ignored the stares, the whispers, the music fading away behind you. Past everything that had made you feel beautiful for a few brief hours.

You didn’t stop until the air was cold in your lungs and the noise of the party was far, far behind.

Elijah was in the back of his private wine cellar, trying to find something fitting for you. Something sweet and earthy.

The last hour had been one of the best of his long life. You were funny and smart and warm. It was so easy to fall into conversation with you, like the words just came.

He knew what a rare thing that was, that special spark that drew two people together. He knew he needed to nurture it, protect it, before the night ended.

So he was here, poring over the labels of his finest wines, trying to decide which one would say what he couldn’t yet find the words for.

It was a small thing, really. A tiny gesture. But you were worth it.

He grabbed a bottle of Chateau Latour from 1805, it was a good year, one he wanted to tell you about. He would, if you stayed. If the night grew long and the conversation never slowed.

He smiled at the thought and scaled up the cellar steps two at a time.

He was halfway across the courtyard, headed for the bar, when a commotion near the entrance caught his attention.

Your voice.

Sharp. Cold. Cracking with fury.

He paused, instincts sharpening.

"This was a nice touch," you were saying, voice too calm, too controlled. He followed the sound instinctively, a bottle still clutched in his hand. "Expensive. Just enough sparkle to make the humiliation really shine."

A few guests turned to look. Elijah stopped in his tracks as he saw you. Your shoulders squared, lips trembling, ruby necklace dangling from your fingertips.

"Wait, just-" Hayley started.

You dropped the necklace at her feet.

"Tell Elijah I don't need his fucking pity, and I certainly don't need yours."

And then you were gone.

Elijah stood frozen.

The wine bottle slipped slightly in his grip.

Hayley and Klaus both turned to look at him, the same look of shame on their faces. He was moving before they could speak, grabbing Klaus by the front of his shirt and pulling him in close.

"What did you do?" he hissed.

"Just revealed the truth of her evening, brother," Klaus said, smirking. "Nothing wrong with a bit of honesty."

Elijah shoved him, looking at Hayley, his expression dark.

Hayley sighed, shaking her head. "I was just trying to help her," she snapped, throwing her hands up. "I wanted her to feel desired again. I didn’t think you would go that far and lead her on!"

"I wasn't leading her on," he said, his composure cracking around the edges. "From the moment I saw her, I was…" His voice dropped. "This wasn’t a performance."

He turned on his heel before they could answer, the set of his shoulders rigid, steps fast and purposeful, cutting through the crowd.

Toward the only thing that mattered.

Finding you.

You couldn’t get to your apartment fast enough. The tears came now, blurring your vision. All you could think about was getting home and locking the door. Possibly never leaving again.

You had just made it to the gate when Elijah appeared.

"Wait," he said, his voice cutting through the roar in your ears.

"I have nothing to say to you," you said, pushing the gate open and marching up the steps.

He followed you. "Please, Y/N. Let me explain."

You fumbled with the key, struggling to fit it into the lock. Your hands were shaking so badly, you couldn't seem to get the right angle.

"I'm sorry," Elijah said, his voice low and urgent. "Tonight was a terrible misunderstanding, I wish to explain myself."

"Don't." You spun to face him, wiping at your cheeks. "Don't insult my intelligence. I get you were just trying to be nice. And I appreciate that. Really. But…" you sucked in a shaky breath, fresh tears blurring your vision. "But I can't…I can't handle being treated like a charity case, or a joke, or-"

"You are not a joke," Elijah said, shaking his head. "That wasn't... That wasn't what I was doing."

"Well, it wasn't what I wanted either," you said, your voice catching in your throat.

"Y/N-"

"Just leave," you said, turning back to the door.

You finally managed to get the key in the lock, twisting it open and stepping inside. You were about to slam it shut when Elijah spoke again.

"I would like the opportunity to show you who I really am," he said, his voice soft.

You turned to look at him, the rage and hurt bubbling up in your chest.

"I've seen enough."

You slammed the door, not caring if the sound echoed down the hallway. Not caring about anything anymore.

{Part Two}

[bennettclaire]

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