Camille O'Connell held her candle low. She was careful in how she handled it, lest she accidentally set her book on fire. Cami's green eyes were strained in the darkness, even though she sat by the window. The moon was only a sliver tonight and it was not giving her enough moonlight to read by. Cami knew she should stop trying to finish the book and go back to bed but she couldn't. She had to know how this story ended. Cami yawned and toughed it out. More than once she froze, afraid she heard a noise. The last thing she needed was a servant finding her hiding out in the library reading. Cami's mother would throw a fit.
Staying up late equaled bags under your surely red eyes. Sneaking around equaled a scandal. A lady hell bent on reading her father's literature was an absurdity. But Cami couldn't help it. She was already forced to sneak her hiding during the day. Maxwell O'Connell's library was a nice size, so what was a missing book here or there? Cami was always sure to return the books before he noticed they were missing. Some books, like the one Cami read now, were too dangerous to risk being caught with. The only times she read it were times like now, in the late night hours alone. The romantic language and vivid imagery the writer employed in the book caused Cami's face to flush on more than one occasion. The risk was worth it, especially with all the stress surrounding the area. Cami needed to relax, so she creeped.
Finally she finished. Cami snapped the book shut and blew out the candle. She tip toed back to her room, which was a ways away from the library. By the time Cami was snuggled back in bed the clock tower in town struck one. Cami sighed, that meant she had a few hours of sleep.
At breakfast Cami tried her best to hide her yawns. Sadly, they did not go unnoticed by her twin brother, Sean. He sat across from her at the table and smirked knowingly. "Did you not get enough rest last night Cami?"
Cami kicked him under the table but kept her face calm so she would not alert her father. "As a matter of fact I did not. Sleep did not come easy to me."
"Really, you'd think after helping our cousins the past few weeks all the tiredness would surrender you to sleep more easily."
"On the contrary, the emotional drain keeps me up at night. I toss and turn in worry over their plight." Cami answered honestly.
"Let your sister be,Sean." Maxwell chided as he buttered his toast. "You know women are of a weaker constitution. It's perfectly reasonable for Camille to feel weakened by all the work."
Sean shot Cami a warning glare to stop her from mouthing off. Cami bit her tongue.
"Are you ready for your training?" Maxwell continued, oblivious to Cami's anger.
"I am, I officially start seminary at the beginning of next week." Sean smiled.
Cami was happy for him. Sean found his calling, the church. He would be in training with other human students from all over although he had a special edge. Their uncle, Father Kieran was leading the seminary, he promised no special treatment to Sean but Cami knew Sean already stood out.
"Are you sure you wish to join?" Maxwell asked for the thousandth time. He didn't want his only son going into spiritual ministry. Maxwell wanted Sean to inherit his lands and riches when he died. He wanted to keep it all in the family. Since Cami was a woman, his estates would pass to her husband. "Other men go into seminary because they are last born sons, with little inheritance to look forward to. You have all of this." Maxwell gestured around the room.
"I've made my decision, father." Sean said to his plate.
Cami smiled, he may not be as troublesome as she was but Sean was just as stubborn as her. Nothing could change his mind once he set it to a goal. When Sean's green eyes met hers she winked in support.
Maxwell snorted. "You speak of spiritual ministry yet you will be aiding my brother in his dealings with those...creatures."
Cami jumped in, "Uncle Kieran does important work. He facilitates relationships between us and the supernatural. It is critical." Maxwell ignored Cami and continued eating. "At least he does something about the problems instead of sitting around acting like they do not effect him."
Maxwell slammed his fist down on the table. "Enough!"
"I will not let you sit here and slander a good man." Cami fumed.
"Cami-" Sean tried.
"I will not sit here and allow this blatant disrespect." Maxwell retorted he pointed his fork at Cami. "You overstep, Camille."
"I speak the truth!"
"What is with this shouting?" Irene O'Connell floated into the room. "One does not wish to wake up to such a racket. Apologies for my tardiness." she kissed her husband on the cheek, patted Sean on the back, and, as usual, reprimanded her daughter. "What have I told you about raising your voice? Posture, Camille. Honestly, have I taught you nothing?" Cami obeyed, ducking her head.
Irene sat down and allowed herself to be served. "Maxwell, Camille and I will be going spending the day at Jacqueline's again."
Cami's father went back to ignoring her. "Are they ready?"
Irene pushed a stray hair behind her ear. "Almost." she sighed, but not too loudly. "Months of preparation and the day will finally upon us tomorrow."
"You say that like it's a good thing." Cami muttered. Sean chuckled.
Irene's voice was sharp. "Hurry and finish eating Camille." she sipped her water. "Was that Harrison Lancaster I saw here yesterday?"
Maxwell nodded. "Aye, he came by to show me the newest fashion in swords."
"Whatever for?"
"He knows I collect some." Maxwell shrugged. "I have given his father good business over the years. But John hasn't been over in years, I don't know why he'd send his son."
"Maybe Harrison came of his own volition." Sean gave Cami a sly smile. Cami couldn't help the heat that rose to her cheeks. She didn't want to give herself away so she focused on her plate.
"Elbows off the table." Irene chided. She didn't have to say Cami's name, everyone knew that's who she spoke to. "Why should he come here? He wants more patronage?" she scrunched her nose. "Blacksmiths."
"A noble profession." Maxwell said.
"Noble? Their family are nothing but craftsmen." Irene scoffed.
"Craftsmen that make the finest swords." Cami found herself saying, "There's a reason high ranking nobles go to them for their swords. They have a good reputation and trade."
Irene dabbed her mouth with a napkin for crumbs. "You know not to speak unless spoken to." Irene said icily. "Be ready to leave in the hour."
Aunt Jacqueline was Maxwell's younger sister. Like him, she inherited a nice sum of money from their late father. It was enough to attract the eye of her husband, Lord Hubert. Together they had four children, two boys and two girls, Caulette and Sapphira. Sapphira was a year older than Cami and Caulette two years younger. The trio got along and considered each other friends. Which is part of the reason Cami didn't mind helping them prepare for their possible impending wedding day.
"Possible" being the operative word. Months ago, High Lord Elijah Mikaelson, original vampire and head of the Mikaelson family, issued a decree. He wanted to strengthen the "peaceful" relationship between vampires and the other species. Peaceful, Cami scoffed. That "relationship" was so strained and tenuous at any moment it could tear. Which is why Elijah came up with an unprecedented strategy: marriage. Marriage as a symbol of a treaty.
If those inter species couples could get along, they would be an example to the rest of the land. Cami thought it was ludicrous but Elijah led by example. Last year he married a noble blooded werewolf princess from the Crescent pack, Hayley. Gossips reported that the two never ceased fighting but they hadn't killed each other, which was as good as anyone could hope for. Next Elijah lined up marriages for his younger brothers, Niklaus and Kol.
This is where the problem lay. Elijah, while ruthless, cunning, and not to be trusted, was less of a threat than his younger brothers. Klaus and Kol were notorious for their cruelty, for the joy they took in destroying anyone they wished. At least Elijah would set you at ease and talk to you first. Klaus and Kol killed your family, tortured you for weeks, then killed you. It was a game to them. No one in their right mind would want to be a hundred miles close to them, much less marry them. No matter the financial reward and elevation in status Elijah promised the families of the wives.
But Elijah's mind was set and he cast a lot. Kol would marry a witch, and Klaus a human. Since they were going in order of birth, Klaus' wedding was next. Just as they did with the werewolves, the Mikaelsons wanted the best of the human line. They narrowed their choice down to the O'Connell family line. The O'Connells were one of the oldest families throughout the land. Down through generations they helped facilitate balance between species, looking to protect the humans. Which was Cami's Uncle Kieran's job, along with his spiritual duties. Elijah considered it a gift to merge the two families, a privilege in fact.
When the O'Connells heard the news they were crushed. Everyone knew marriage to Klaus Mikaelson was a death sentence. Rumors throughout town spread. Klaus would kill his bride on their wedding night, he would probably drain her blood the minute they were left alone. These lovely thoughts were accompanied by the already rampant stories of Klaus' escapades. A man looked at him wrong so Klaus slaughtered his whole village. He killed his children right in front of him. Some werewolves plotted against him so Klaus had one of his witches curse the entire pack. They were locked in there werewolf forms and began killing each other. A woman rejected Klaus' affections so he compelled her to kill the man she loved, all the while aware of what she was doing. When she was done Klaus fed off her and left her mangled body on her parent's doorstep. No, no woman wanted to marry Klaus.
There was an uneasy feeling in the house. Klaus was as unpredictable as he was volatile. No one knew who he'd choose as his bride. He would arrive mid-morning tomorrow at Cami's own home. There the O'Connell family would present their most beautiful young ladies as candidates. Klaus would pick one and they would be wed by nightfall. These candidates were considered la creme de la creme, most suitable to be the wife of a Mikaelson.
Cami was glad she was not among them. She was considered too plain, too odd, and far too rebellious to even be considered. Those that were, however, faced their impending nuptials. Of course the family of the wife would receive riches and prestige, but at the cost of one of their own. Irene seemed upset, not about the sadness that pervaded through the family like a cancer, but that she could possibly inherit the glory Elijah promised.
When Irene first saw the decree with her own to eyes she laughed to her daughter. "We have no need to prepare you Camille. What would the Mikaelsons see in you?"
Cami wanted to marry Klaus as much as she wanted to throw herself into an inferno but the comment still stung. Did Irene truly think Cami was worthless? However the certainty of living outweighed the hurt. Now, it was Cami's duty to help prepare her cousins for the big day.
"Dustin was going to propose to me." Sapphira whispered as Cami fastened the stays on her undergarments.
"He still might." Cami answered. "Klaus may not pick you and you'll be free to marry Dustin."
Sapphira let out a bitter laugh. "Right, he'll pick another unfortunate relative of ours. Either way we lose a cousin, a niece, somebody. It's dreadful."
"What I wouldn't give to be you Cami." Caulette said as she tried on various shoes. "You have nothing to worry about."
Cami didn't comment, there was nothing she could say. Her future wasn't on the line tomorrow.
"This room is a mess! Did a hurricane blow through?" Aunt Jacqueline asked as she entered with Irene. "Sapphira, fetch a servant at once to clean this place up."
"My dear Jac you are lucky to be blessed with two beautiful daughters." Irene said. She fluffed out Caulette's towhead curls. "Between Caulette's hair and Sapphiras gorgeous eyes I imagine you're swimming in marriage proposals."
"We have had a few." Jacqueline bragged. "But they couldn't pay the dowries. I tell my girls to never settle."
"At least yours listen to you, I don't know where I went wrong with Camille." Irene spoke as if Cami weren't in the room.
Caulette shifted uncomfortably. "Camille will make a wonderful wife, she's loyal and caring and beau-"
"If anyone wants to marry her." Irene said, "Baby steps I suppose. Maybe if Camille would get her nose out of books and stop visiting vulgar places-"
Cami put her hands on her hips, "Uncle Rousseau is your brother and that tavern is his business."
"Must you raise your voice Camille?" Irene placed her fingers on her temples as if she had a headache. "Do you seen what I deal with Jacqueline?" her sister in law gave her a pitying glance.
"Any man who married Cami would consider it a boon." Sapphira proclaimed from the doorway.
"She isn't unattractive." Jacqueline agreed. "Perhaps the Lord Niklaus would find her pleasing. It's not too late to get her ready."
"Haven't you been informed Aunt Jacqueline? I'm an inept oaf and a failure as a daughter. Who could ever want me?" Cami's voice dripped with sarcasm. "Especially when they see how lovable my mother is."
Irene gave her daughter a pitying look. "Oh Camille, thank you for proving my point." she spoke as if talking to a child. "We must present the most beautiful to High Lord Niklaus, not the most impertinent."
The condescension in Irene's gaze was enough to drive Cami from the room.
"Get back here this instant!" Irene huffed up her skirts to follow Cami but she couldn't keep up. "Camille, Camille!"
But nothing stopped Cami as she strutted outside of the mansion.
Cami escaped to one of her safe havens she knew her mother wouldn't step foot in: Rousseau's.
"Little girl, you're going to get me in trouble with my sister." her uncle teased when he saw her storm in.
"Someone has to join me in my torment." Cami headed straight for the back of the establishment. She frequented the bar enough that she had a spare change of clothes so she wouldn't catch attention with her expensive dresses. The one she had on now was some notches down, plain, not too attention grabbing. Cami felt comfortable.
Cami took her usual place at the end of the counter. She watched as her uncle cleaned the counter top. 'Was she always like this?"
Rousseau made a face. "Irene was always...determined and a tad overbearing."
Cami snorted. "That's a nice way to put it."
"But she does it because she cares." he finished.
"I am so sick of people excusing her." Cami grabbed a bottle and poured in her cup, only for her uncle to take it from her.
His brown eyes bored into hers. "I know you want to drown your sorrows in alcohol but that won't make the problems go away."
"It will temporarily. Please Uncle Rou I just want a buzz."
Rousseau considered. "One glass, that's all." he poured Cami's drink.
She beamed at him. "Thank you!"
"You owe me."
Cami just downed it when Sean slid into the stool next to hers. "What are you doing here? An aspiring priest visiting a tavern? What would your mentors think?"
Sean was to the point. "What are you doing here Cami?"
"Relaxing." Cami poked her tongue in the glass in an unladylike manner, trying to get to the last drop.
"Sapphira told me what happened." Sean said.
Cami sighed. "Do you think Uncle Rou will notice if I pour myself another glass?" She reached but Sean grabbed her hand.
"Cami, mom does have a point." Sean said, "you are impertinent. You storming out of Aunt Jacqueline's house proved her point."
"I am not!" Cami said defensively.
Sean raised an eyebrow "Oh? Is that why you're here in Uncle Rousseaus tavern? You know mom hates this place."
"Well I love it. The fact that this place pisses her off is just a bonus."
"I don't know why you should be envious of mom's compliments to our cousins. Its not like being wife to any of those monsters is a prize."
Cami nodded her head. "True."
"It's dangerous, especially for a human. You likely know what will happen to his wife," Sean's voice trailed off and Cami's thoughts turned morose. Klaus' wife would end up as a meal, or killed in an attempt to kill the original hybrid, or killed by Klaus himself should she find herself on the wrong end of his infamous rage.
"Its not just about this marriage treaty." Cami admitted.
"Then what is it about, Cami?"
Cami wiped a tear that was about to fall. "I'd like her to just once think that I'm pretty enough. Or good enough." She added in a whisper.
Sean put an arm around his sister. "You are, you're more than that. You don't have to hear it from mom."
"No, but it'd be nice."
"That's what you have me for! And Uncle Kieran," Sean smirked, "and Harrison."
Cami pushed Sean and tried to hide her blush. "Stop it!"
"What?" Sean laughed at her facial expression. "If you're going to sneak around with Harry, be more discrete."
Harrison's visit to their house yesterday evening was just a ruse for him to see Cami. Ever since the Spring festival when he brought her flowers and told her he thought she was pretty they tried to meet. Cami was surprised at her shyness around the auburn haired brown eyed blacksmith. He was kind and sweet, and yes very handsome.
Cami rolled her eyes. "Did you see the way she reacted to his name at breakfast? Sean she thinks everyone is beneath her. I'll never measure up."
Sean's face was serious. "You and me both." They sat together in silence.
"At least you get to follow your dream." Cami finally said. "I'm proud of you. This is your biggest defiance to date."
Sean's face lit up. "I know. I am excited about all the work I'll get to do. Once I finish seminary I receive special privileges. I may be assigned to another town, which means travel. I also receive access to the church's library."
"Sounds like heaven." Cami mused.
"I may float you a book from there so you can stop stealing from our father and staying up at night." He said pointedly. Cami sighed in anticipation of a lecture.
"I'm careful."
"Cami, I hear those heavy feet of yours a mile away. Then you bump into walls-"
"I got confused for a moment, that's all!" Cami nudged him with her shoulder. "You notice because you know to listen for me."
"That's my job. I'm your brother I protect you."
"I'm your sister and I protect you." Cami and Sean looked at each other. Sean was always there for her. He was a good man, if he was interested in marriage Cami knew he would become a great husband and father. But Sean never had interest in starting a family. Maybe because of how theirs was.
He was handsome too, His green eyes were slightly darker than hers. They enhanced Sean's brown hair which he inherited from their mother. It gave Sean a mysterious yet trustworthy look. Cami knew several young ladies who giggled every time he came around.
"Then again I'm the oldest and it's expected." Cami added.
Sean sighed. "You will never let that go! Two minutes Cami, two minutes and that is all!"
"Hmm, I'm still older than you." she teased, smiling.
Sean's eyes turned serious again. "Will you come home now?"
Cami sighed. "Give me an hour. I told Uncle Rousseau I'd cover for one of his girls."
"Of course you did." Sean sighed. He kissed her forehead. "Be home as soon as you can."
Cami knew Sean didn't understand her fascination with Rousseau's but she loved him for not judging her for it. As Cami worked she was reminded of why she liked the tavern. It was busy, it was warm and it was fun. Travelers typically rode in and would tell their stories and there was no one looking over her shoulder nitpicking. Cami was able to relax and connect with people. Finally Cami served her last customers for the night. She took in the trio before her. Two sat while the man in the middle stood between them.
"Sorry, if you're here for the gumbo I'm about to break your heart, we just ran out."
The man in the middle, who was standing, flashed a smile at her while he tossed a small coin purse on the bar. "Your oldest beer for my two companions here, love."
His accent was strong and distinctive. Cami glanced in the coin purse, it had nothing but gold coins. Her eyebrows rose but he man told her to keep the change. Cami shrugged, Uncle Rou would be ecstatic. she took the money and filled the order. When Cami got back only the two sitting remained.
When Cami left the tavern, Harrison was waiting for her outside. He leaned against a light post. The low fire made his auburn hair look red. Cami immediately tucked her hair behind her ear. "What are you doing here?"
"I ran into Sean earlier and he told me where you were so I decided to wait for you." The low timbre of his voice resonated throughout Cami's body.
"If I had known you were outside I would have come out earlier." Cami answered.
Harrison cocked his head to the side. "Really? Shame, we could've had more time together."
Cami was immediately disappointed. "We'll make it up." her voice rose at the end, making it sound like a question.
"Of course, but for now," Harrison offered Cami his arm, "walk with me, my lady. I want to make sure you get home safe."
Cami couldn't stop the big grin that spread across her face as they walked together. Soon their arms dropped and they held hands. As they talked Cami tried to discretely check Harrison out. He was so tall and broad, yet Harrison was one of the most gentle people Cami knew. While they walked they discussed their days (Cami left out her fight with her mother). Harrison's became serious when they spoke of the marriage treaty.
"I am sorry for your family Cami." Harrison bit his lip, "Can I tell you something, even though it'll make me sound like a terrible person?"
Cami laughed, "I could never consider you a horrible person, Harrison."
He came to a stop and faced Cami. When Harrison's warm brown eyes met hers, Cami's breath caught. "I know you'll lose a family member tomorrow." Harrison licked his lips, "But I can't help my feelings of relief and joy that you won't be presented. Even though I believe you are beautiful, intelligent, and deserving of that high position. I'm glad because I won't lose you."
Cami ducked her head. She didn't know where to look, or what to say. It was the nicest speech anyone had given Cami and she was dressed in commoners clothes..
"Hey," Harrison raised their joined hands and waved it in her face until she looked up. "You know I want to marry you."
"I know." Cami blushed.
"I hope that smile means 'I want to marry you too Harrison'." He joked nervously.
"It does." Cami squeezed his hand in assurance.
Harrison's grin was wide. "When we're married you won't have to sneak down to Rousseau's. We'll go together." They began walking again. "I'll take you out of here. We can go visit some places my father showed me. I could take you with me to deliver to some of our long distance customers."
Cami's face lit up, "Really?"
"Camille you haven't lived until you've seen the mountains. I can't possibly describe them."
"When we're married I'll show you how to read something other than your checkbooks and receipts." Cami promised. Harrison wasn't illiterate, but his reading skills could use some polishing. Cami had seen him struggle with a few big words once or twice.
Harrison laughed. "Sounds like a deal." he quickly looked around at their surroundings before quickly kissing Cami on the lips. Harrison hadn't shaved in days and the light wisps of his incoming beard and mustache tickled Cami's face. When they separated they smiled at each other shyly. Cami remembered the first time Harrison kissed her, her heart was pounding just like it was now. This was all Cami needed, Harrison was a good man and she didn't give a damn about his station.
"Harry!" A man called across the street.
"One minute." Harrison turned to Cami, "Don't go anywhere."
Cami smiled, "I promise."
When he came back Harrison explained that his father needed to see him. "I want to make sure you get home safely."
"It's fine." Cami said. The sun was beginning to set and if Cami hurried it wouldn't be too late when she got home.
"Klaus Mikaelson is arriving in town tomorrow, everyone's on edge, and you want to walk home alone?" Harrison's eyebrows rose.
"He's not here yet." Cami said. "Honestly Harrison please go, I don't want you to keep your father waiting."
Harrison smirked at Cami. He took her hands in his and swung them back and forth. "Not until I get another kiss." Cami blushed at his audacity but pecked him on the lips. "Mmmm, I can't wait until we're married."
"Neither can I. Be safe."
Harrison's eyes bored into Cami's. "Same to you." He turned around several times as he walked away to look back at Cami. Each time she waved, and Harrison waved back, until he was finally out of sight.
Cami stalled going back to her father's estate. Harrison put her in a good mood as always but she wasn't ready to let the air out of her balloon just yet. She stopped in the town center. Where was an artist painting along with a live band.
She allowed herself to get totally engrossed in the painting. Cami barely noticed when a man walked up next to her. She recognized him as the guy from the trio earlier. Cami smiled, "The gold coins guy."
He smiled back at her, "The serving girl."
There was that strong accent again. Cami turned her attention back to the painting. "Amazing isn't he?"
"Do you paint?
"No but I admire." Cami faced the painting again, "Every artist has a story you know."
The man faced the painting again as well. "What do you suppose his story is?"
Cami took in a deep breath and got lost in the painting. "He's angry, dark. Doesn't feel safe and doesn't know what to do about it. He wishes he could control his demons instead of having his demons control him. He's lost, alone."
Cami finally remembered she was talking to someone and put her attention back on the man, who looked like he was blinking back tears. What had she done?
"Or, maybe he just drank too much tonight. Sorry," Cami pointed to herself. "Overzealous."
"No." the man blinked and looked her in the eye. "I think you're probably right the first time." He held her eyes and Cami realized he wasn't that much older than she was. She also noticed that he was attractive. Very attractive, in fact.
Cami coughed. "If you're interested there's going to be an art festival in a few weeks. Tons of artwork from across the area is featured. You should come."
The young man's mouth went up, "Why, will you be there?"
Cami felt heat rising to her cheeks. "I, don't know. But you should go regardless since it's a big thing."
Cami shut her mouth to keep from rambling. The stranger's eyes were such an intense blue. Not bright like the sky like Sapphira's were. But a more quiet, stormy blue. He looked at her so intently Cami felt like she was drowning. Finally he released her and Cami returned to herself.
"I won't be around in a few weeks, I'm afraid. I'm here on business."
"You picked a great time to arrive." Cami muttered.
The young man's blond eyebrows rose, "Is that so?"
"Yes. If I were you, I would keep my head low tomorrow."
"I take it danger arrives tomorrow?" He clasped his hands behind his back.
Was that humor in his eyes? Cami ignored it. "Yes."
"How, pray tell, will you be staying safe among this danger?"
"I'll be with my family." Cami answered honestly.
The man's face turned slightly hard at the mention of family but then it relaxed again. "Thanks for the warning. After the danger passes perhaps, we'll bump into each other again before I depart."
Cami laughed nervously. Not even Harrison flirted with her so openly, not until they got to know each other better. Cami doubted she'd see this man again. On the other hand, if that bag of gold coins was any indication he was rich. He was bound to be mentioned in the O'Connell's circle. "If you say so." was her reply.
His eyes dropped to her lips before meeting her eyes again. "I'll come back to visit and find you."
Cami's face was the picture of puzzlement. "You don't know my name."
"Trust me, love. I'm good with faces." He studied her face, "Especially lovely ones like yours."
"Do I get a say?" Cami put her hands on her hips, "What if I don't want to see you again?"
The man laughed then stepped closer. "Do you?" His eyebrows were raised. There it was again, the feeling that she was drowning and that he was seeing into her soul.
The attraction in his eyes matched the one Cami was feeling and she shook herself. Cami already knew the man she wanted to be with. She returned her attention to the painting.
"So do you..." Cami turned back to find the man gone. "...paint?"
The next day, Maxwell O'Connell's home was in an uproar. All of the O'Connell women were present, getting ready for Klaus Mikaelson's arrival. If they weren't being groomed, like Cami, they were being sent all over the place helping the candidates. Sapphira and Caulette's sister in law, Alexandra, assisted Cami in their current errand which was finding Gracie's emerald bracelet. They went room by room, checking every nook and cranny.
Alexandra checked behind an L shaped sofa. "Why does Gracie want this blasted bracelet? Does she want to be chosen?"
Cami shrugged as she opened the closet. "I think pride is beginning to set in."
"It's become a competition." Alexandra muttered as she removed sofa cushions. "Have they forgotten who Klaus Mikaelson is? Or has the rumors of his handsome appearance taken root in their minds and replaced reason?"
"There may be reason for false security," Cami said as she rummaged around, "I doubt Elijah will allow anything to happen to Klaus' wife. Or else what good is a treaty?"
"Cami please, you cannot trust any of those monsters. They'll simply replace the fallen wife with another, and another. On the off chance this wife lives a full life, they'll replace her anyway."
Cami shut the closet. Honestly, why would the bracelet be in there? Did it matter? Truthfully, Cami was glad to be away from some of the madness.
"I thank God I am already married your cousin Liam," Alexandra said then quickly added, "Is that wrong of me to say?"
"I don't think so." Cami joined her in checking the sofa, "You missed it by the skin of your teeth. It's a shame not everyone else was as fortunate."
"You speak as though you'll be on the front line," Alexandra grabbed Cami's hand, "we're safe Camille. I'd miss Caulette, Sapphira, and a good many of our young ladies if they were chosen but I am especially glad you staying is a certainty."
Cami sighed. "No matter who Klaus chooses, there will be a loss our family feels today. A void that will not be filled."
"This truly is a cruel thing." Alexandra shook her head, "Damn those blood sucking bastards."
"Alex!" Cami playfully swatted her.
"Alexandra." The two ladies froze. Irene O'Connell stood in the doorway, "I have been looking for you. Abandon this quest Gracie put you on and attend your sister in law. Sapphira took her curlers out and her hair is misbehaving. You know you have a magical touch with hair."
"Onto another crisis." Alexandra winked before leaving, with Irene behind her.
Cami let out a breath. Her mother had been ignoring her since Cami arrived home late last night. If Irene thought it was a punishment she was sorely mistaken. Cami enjoyed the silence for she knew it would be so long until Cami did something Irene disapproved of and she would be back to her harping.
The closer it got to Klaus' arrival the more nervous everyone got. The men stood around the large reception room, some with drinks in their hands. When Uncle Kieran arrived he gave Cami a hug before joining his brother. Servants bustled about, and Irene fretted over every little decoration. That left Cami free to get ready without Irene's watchful eye. The servants helped Cami out, she wore one of her best gowns, which was a rosy pink and gave her skin a warm glow. It wasn't as extravagant as the dresses the candidates wore but Cami knew she needed to look good for the guests regardless. When all the candidates were finally ready they came down in a line and stood to the side.
They were all dressed in their best, makeup done to perfection, beautiful smiles on their faces. But anyone could see some of those smiles were strained. There was a nervous energy in the air. Cami could see beads of sweat forming on Marie's brow. Caulette fidgeted like she always did when she got nervous. Sapphira looked as if she were about to faint. Cami shot her female cousins a supportive smile.
While some women fussed over them, making last minute adjustments Aunt Sophia made the organized rest of the family into a presentable formation. The heads of the families stood behind Kieran with their wives while their descendants stood to the right in order of relation. Cami relaxed slightly when Sean finally came and stood by her. He was dressed in religious garb like Kieran, Cami smiled. She knew her father would disapprove.
Cami nudged Sean and gestured to the table of refreshments. "Mother insisted, insisted that there be enough food for Klaus and his entourage. Who was she fooling? Pretending Klaus and his company were not vampires did not erase the fact that the only thing they crave is blood."
Sean shook his head and suppressed his laughter, "I see that lovely rose color won't hide the fact that you have thorns."
"Good," Cami whispered back, "that means the vampires will know if they touch me, they bleed."
Sean stroked his chin, "They might like that."
"Shut up." Cami laughed, shaking her head. They were three rows from the front of the formation, Cami wondered if she'd get to see anything as several people towered over her. Even if she stood between two people she'd have to stay on her toes.
Suddenly, a servant came in to announce Klaus' arrival, but before he could finish his sentence they were in the room. The O'Connells gasped the vampires were a blur as they sped in, in groups. They didnt come at the same time but in intervals until they lined three of the room walls.
Cami's eyes went wide and found Sean, whose mouth was hanging open. They'd never seen so many vampires in one room. All sound ceased, and there was a notable drop in temperature. Finally Cami heard footsteps at a leisurely pace, Klaus.
Cami imagined him walking with confident gait. She wished she could see from behind her family members.
"High Lord Klaus." Cami heard Kieran say.
"Let's get on with it shall we?" Klaus replied.
Why did that voice sound so familiar? Cami stood on her toes but could not see.
Kieran went down the line introducing Klaus to the best of the young single female O'Connells of the current generation. As Klaus moved down the line, coming closer to her line of vision, Cami was able go get a better look at him.
Cami gasped and quickly covered her mouth. She felt Sean giving her an odd look, but Cami could not take her eyes off Klaus. He was the man from the bar, the man from the painting. He had on even more expensive looking clothes than last night. How could he be Klaus? He seemed so human. Not like the monster everyone feared. Cami replayed their conversation last night in her head. How could she not know? How could she know? No, that could not be Klaus.
But it was in fact Klaus, because only a hybrid would hear Cami stifle a gasp from so far away. His intense blue eyes looked for the source of the sound. When their eyes locked, Cami froze. Klaus' eyes widened ever so slightly in surprise. One side of his mouth quirked up before he interrupted Kieran mid-introduction.
"What about her?" Klaus asked Kieran, pointing a finger straight at Cami.
Everyone's gaze turned to Cami. She squirmed under the attention.
Kieran looked from Cami to Klaus in confusion. "She's...not apart of our selection." He finally said. They had not yet made it half way down the procession and Klaus was already halting it.
Klaus had yet to take his intense eyes off Cami. "She is now."
Cami's heart sped up. She shook her head in disbelief at the turn of events. No no no no. She did not want this!
"No." Sean moved in front of Cami, shielding her from Klaus' gaze. "You are not taking her."
"This is not a part of the deal, my lord." Cami was surprised to hear her father speak, she wished she could see Maxwell. She had the urge to run to him and hide in his arms, a sentiment she had not felt since she was a little girl.
Klaus' eyes slowly moved to Maxwell. Cami's heart sped up as a look of annoyance came across his face. She did not want her father on the receiving end of Klaus' wrath. Then Klaus smiled as if an idea came to his mind. He clapped his hands. "Alright then, new deal! I wed her or my friends and I kill everyone here. I'll save you for last, Father." Klaus pointed at Kieran, "So you can see every one of your loved ones fall." The vampires hissed happily as they stepped forward, baring their fangs. Screams sounded from the O'Connells. Aunt Jacqueline fainted.
"Take her!" Someone cried out. "Better her than all of us."
Others murmured their agreement and turned on her. Cami panicked, should she run? Sean had Cami's hand in a death grip. "She's not going anywhere!" He shouted.
"Kieran do something!"
The priest tried again as he bravely stood toe to toe with Klaus, "This is not apart of the original agreement. I doubt your brother would approve of this."
Klaus clasped his hands behind his back. "My brother wants me to marry a young O'Connell woman of my choosing, and I have chosen. I am free to dismiss all of these women you presented as I do so now." Even behind Sean, Cami had the eerie feeling Klaus' eyes were boring into her, "I want her."
Another O'Connell spoke up, "The needs of the many outweigh the few."
"Think of the rest of us!"
An uncle grabbed Cami and slung her over his shoulder. She screamed, fighting against him. Which family member was betraying her?
Sean lunged while Cami kicked. "Get your hands off her!"
"Give her to the hybrid!" Someone yelled.
Sean punched Cami's assailant in the face only to have other family members hold him back. Cami called his name and ran to help him only to be encircled by more family members. This time she did not wait. Cami yelled before running towards the smallest man in the circle. She tackled him to the ground before using the new opening to run to Sean. As more hands reached for her Cami scratched and clawed. A hand came over her mouth and she bit down on it. Cami saw Sapphira and Caulette join the fight.
"Leave Cami alone!" They tried pushing other family members off Cami to free her but soon Cami lost sight of them. It quickly dissolved into an all out O'Connell family battle with family members turning on each other. Cami heard wine glasses shattering, punches landing, and yells of pain.
"Get the fuck off her!"
"Alex?" Cami tried to find her cousin, only to find herself encircled yet again. She defended herself as best as she could, even whipping off her shoes and whacking people with it. Liam, Alex's husband, helped her before being knocked unconscious. Cami heard her dress tearing, felt her hairdo falling, the ache of family members pulling on her, but she didn't stop fighting. Cami could not see Sean or any of her supporters. Where were her parents?
"ENOUGH!" Someone yelled but the fighting continued. Then everyone stopped.
Klaus slowly walked toward the circle of people that surrounded Cami. With every step, people got out of his way. When the circle broke Cami was glaring ferociously at a male family member. A wild look was in her eye. Cami was in a crouched stance like a cornered animal waiting to attack. Her would be opponent noticed Klaus and immediately bowed their head before moving aside.
Finally Klaus stood face to face with Cami. Her eyes darted away, refusing to meet his. When she heard signs of a struggle she ran towards it. "Sean!"
When Cami saw her brother her heart stopped. His face had a cut and his left eye was turning blue. It lit up at the sight of his twin. The siblings embraced each other. "Cami."
Klaus clasped his hands behind his back impatiently. "Still waiting on your answer love. It is fully up to you." Cami finally met Klaus' eyes. He saw nothing but pure fury. Cami did not trust herself to speak.
Irene's voice cut through the air. "Marry him, Camille."
Cami whipped her head in her mothers direction, "No, mother-"
"Save this family Camille." Irene's face was hard. She looked at Klaus, "She accepts your hand, my lord."
Hot tears sprang from Cami's eyes. Her mother truly did not love her. Cami glanced at her father next to her. Maxwell would not meet her eyes. Of course not. He'd do whatever Irene wanted, as usual.
Klaus' face was a hard mask. "If you do not mind, I want to hear it from Camille."
Cami couldn't even enjoy the look of shock on Irene's face from being dismissed. Cami glared at Klaus. Her name sounded foreign on his tongue. She hated it. She hated him.
"Cami, do not do it." Sean said through his busted lip.
"Kiddo." Kieran said. He had tears in his hazel eyes, Cami's heart broke.
"Don't forget the alternative, love." Klaus reminded her.
"I'm well aware." Cami hissed to the ground.
Klaus sensed her rejection. "Very well," he rubbed his hands together. "Then I suppose-"
"Wait." Cami's voice was low and heavy with emotion. "I'll do it." She lifted her eyes to meet Klaus'. "I'll marry you. I accept your proposal."
Surprisingly, Klaus didn't smirk. He merely appraised her with his eyes. Sounds of relief swept through the room but to Cami they sounded like sounds of betrayal. A few sad sobs pierced the air, including Alexandra's. "No, not Cami, no."
Some family members gave her pitying looks. Sapphira, Caulette, who's appearance was ragged from the fight looked at her through red eyes, as did other family members.
Sean gripped Cami's hand again. "I'm not letting you go, not while there's breath in me."
"Sean, please." Cami begged. She took her hand out of his, "I do not want anyone dying for me."
Klaus offered Cami his hand. She rejected the urge to slap it away or spit on it and accepted it. When she stood Klaus regarded her appearance. He cocked his head to the side. "One more thing to take care of."
Suddenly Klaus vamp sped towards the uncle that first grabbed Cami and snapped his neck. All anyone saw was his lifeless body crumple to the ground. Cami covered her hand over her mouth while others gasped.
"Let this be an example." Klaus held out his hands in a faux friendly matter as he walked. "Anyone who lays a hand on my wife suffers the same fate."
Then Klaus was back at Cami's side. He took her hand and kissed it. Cami stiffened, "You do me a great honor in agreeing to marry me, Lady Camille."
Cami glared at Klaus as he continued to hold her hand. She wanted to smack that infuriating grin off his face. Cami knew she was as good as dead.
Klaus turned to the O'Connells. "Cheer up!" He said in a jovial tone. Like he did not murder someone and threaten the same to them all. "We are supposed to be having a wedding ceremony tonight?" Klaus' voice turned icy as he smiled, "In a few hours we'll all be family."