I wanted to try something a little different. I got this idea today and just started writing (I know - when I should be finishing up Darkness Falls). Let me know what you think!

The parking lot was almost deserted. Elijah and Klaus sat in their SUV with the doors locked. Klaus' hands gripped the steering wheel. Elijah stared straight ahead, his face grim. Neither said a word as the events of the night replayed in their mind.

Finally, Klaus spoke. "That was terrifying."

"Did you see them - they move as one as they lock in on their prey."

"And we're the monsters," Klaus snorted.

"I saw Jackson trapped. I am filled with guilt for abandoning him," Elijah said.

"Family first, brother. It's a miracle we escaped when we did."

"We are Originals. We have faced down and defeated every threat, together," Elijah said. "We will do so again."

A tap on the outside of driver's side window caused the thousand year old Originals to jump.

"Hi!" A woman stood outside, waving to them. "I'm Marcy - Kayla's mom - she's with Ms. Greyson, in Hope's class."

If Marcy noticed it was strange that the occupants of the vehicle didn't bother to roll down the window, she said nothing.

"They are such great friends - my little Kayla and your little Hope - we should arrange a play date!" she continued loudly, oblivious as Klaus and Elijah stared open-mouthed at her, fear evident in their eyes.

"What the bloody hell is a play date?" Klaus muttered through his clenched teeth.

I don't know, but I'm quite certain I don't want to play with or date that woman."

"Here - my number," she said, tearing off a piece of paper and waving it.

"Elijah, what do I do," Klaus whimpered.

"No - no, Niklaus, I swear," Elijah hissed. "Do not roll down that window. Niklaus -"

Klaus lowered the window a half inch. "Thank you..."

"Oh, um, okay, here, let me just - squeeze that in there," she laughed a little too brightly.

Klaus took the piece of paper delicately between his thumb and forefinger, holding it as if it were cursed. He hit the button to close the window.

"Okay, well, bye - call me!"

"Drive, Niklaus."

The glow of the lights on the announcement board dimmed as they drove away:

Crescent City Elementary School - Home of the Wolves.
Parent Teacher Conferences Tonight 7pm.