Two

"Oh, but you must come into the village with us!" Katherine exclaimed from across the table to the Salvatore brothers. It earned an eye roll from Elena, who in return, received a smirk from both brothers. She quickly gave a small smile to Stefan, and saved a subtle glare for Damon.

Her attempt at anger was obviously feeble and it only further amused him. She may have to kill him.

Oh, it was tempting. How could she do it? Smother him in his sleep? Set him on fire? The possibilities were a handful. Lost in scenarios, she smiled to herself, and didn't notice Damon lean his elbow on the surface of the table and place his perfectly defined chin in his hand to watch her. He was truly magnificent. His raven hair fell sexily around his face, his eyes were no longer tired; they were... amplified in the morning, somehow.

Realizing eyes were on her; she snapped out of it, shot him another deathly glare then swiftly rose from the table. Gathering her dress with one hand, she shifted approached the sink. She had endured the entire breakfast listening to Katherine's desperate and not even subtle flirting with both brothers and had finally reached the end of her patience with it.

As Katherine continued to prattle on, Elena gazed out the back window with heavy lids, searching the trees for any movement. Soon she was joined by an unknown and barely registered presence at the sink, one she quickly turned to acknowledge once their hand pressed tenderly to her shoulder.

"Oh, Gran." Elena sighed in relief.

"Do you not feel well, dear?" Rose lifted a hand and placed the back of it to Elena's forehead. "You don't have a fever."

"Oh no, I'm fine." Elena responded almost wearily. "I didn't sleep well last night, that's all."

Rose cooed in both affection and sympathy, trailing her hand down the side of Elena's face and settling on her cheek. Elena leaned into it, accepting the comfort it provided.

"Maybe you should postpone your trip to the village." Rose suggested.

"You know I cannot, Grandmama." Elena said grimly.

Simply not going into the village today had its advantages. She could skip on having to listen or get involved with the endless chatter Katherine undoubtedly had all planned out, but as tempting as it was to not go, she had to. She had promised a friend she would be there to aid in picking out dresses for the ball tonight, and she didn't plan on going back on a promise.

Rose sighed and let her hand travel down the length of Elena's dark chocolate curly hair that stopped half way down her back. Both sisters kept their hair identical, loosely curled and free flowing down to their waist. It was the way their mother liked it best.

"Your hair, it's just like your mothers." Rose murmured with affection. "But the thickness, that's from your father."

Elena's eyes welled with tears she was determined to not let spill. "Just like your eyes are from him," she turned Elena's face in her hands. "Bichette, you truly are. Except you don't run from the wolves, you dwell with them. Just like your father did."

Elena nodded and her eyes dropped to look at the floor. A few moments went by before she lifted them. "You miss him." she stated.

Rose sighed once again. "Losing a child... is," There was a pause. "One of the worst possible things for a parent, it's unnatural. We aren't supposed to outlive our children, but neither should children lose their parents so soon in life."

A single tear fell from Elena's warn coffee coloured eyes but was intercepted on its trail down her angelic face by a swipe of her fingers.

"I've upset you." Rose commented sadly.

"Oh, no." Elena insisted. "I'm just... sad, that's all. It's all still so..."

"Fresh," Rose finished off. "I know, dear. But it won't be this difficult forever. The more time passes, the more the pain will ease."

"The past few days have treated me well." She informed. "The weight of them being gone hasn't been so intense, because I haven't been reminded of it as often as usual. Only when I remember again, do I feel as though the pain is... almost suffocating me."

"That's because you've had distractions." Rose motioned with a turn of her head towards the three people still sat at the table.

Elena gave a soft chuckle of reluctance that was speedily recovered into a frown as she came across Damon. He was looking right at her, with... sympathy.

Oh, dear, no. She lifted a hand to wipe at her wet cheek. Had he noticed her crying? Had he heard the conversation? No, that wasn't possible. He was more than six foot away and her conversation with her grandmother had been hushed the entire time.

Rose leaned towards Elena. "Go, fix yourself. You don't want the village to see you upset."

Elena gave a small appreciative smile to her grandmother, gathered the heavy skirts of her sky-blue dress and left the kitchen.

Half an hour later, the four of them were joining the trail that lay between the trees of the forest and led straight to the village. Elena hung back as they walked, leaving Katherine to help herself to both brothers, who were situated at either side of her, allowing her slender arms to hook into each of theirs and remain there.

A man on each arm, how very 'Katherine' of her, Elena thought begrudgingly, and it made her want to kick herself. Why did she even care? She usually just let Katherine get on with what she did best; introducing men to her charms, and not to mention, her bed. But it was different seeing her fall all over these two brothers, and she couldn't for the life of her, understand why. She barely knew either of them, all she did know was that one of them, Damon, infuriated her with something as minuscule as a look, or a smile fuelled by his arrogance.

Was this what it was going to be like for the entirety of the brother's stay with them; Katherine sharing her attributes out to both brothers?

Elena huffed out loud and mistakenly caught their attention. All three of them wore different expressions as they gazed back at her. Ranging from Stefan's impassive one, to Katherine's, that screamed 'I'm extremely annoyed at you for interrupting my conversation' and Damon's, same arrogance, same flash of mischief in his blue eyes that coaxed her temper. Stupid, annoying, beautiful face.

Deciding not to stop in her tracks, she caught up to them, and following her example, they began walking again. This time, minus a brother.

"Miss Pierce." Stefan greeted with politeness, falling easily into step beside Elena.

Elena acknowledged him with a smile. Maybe he held no similarity to his older brother; she certainly had none with Katherine. Except for their physical appearance, of course. Stefan certainly didn't give the impression he was like Damon. No arrogant smirk, no flash of mischief or playfulness in his deep green eyes. Maybe she could get along with him.

He held out an arm to her and after a moment of hesitation, she took it.

"I hope mine and my brothers' intrusion in your home isn't too much of an inconvenience for you." Stefan said with softness she found pleasure in hearing.

"Oh, no." She returned almost immediately. It was the truth, in a way. Stefan wasn't the inconvenience, so why should she make him feel bad for something that clearly wasn't his fault? It was his brother that was the problem. "You'll be staying until whatever is responsible for the murders is caught?"

"That's the plan." He replied. "Your sister tells us there is a ball tonight."

Of course she has. "Yes, at the Forbes mansion, in celebration of Mayor Bill Forbes's birthday. It's very large inside, very exquisite."

"Ah." Stefan nodded then mirrored her sideways glance that quickly triggered a shy smile to erupt across his lips. Then she marked something unexpected as he turned from her. A blush. Did he just blush because of her? How odd.

It wasn't that she had never seen a man blush before, she had, of course she had, and it'd been mostly in regards to her, but none who held such extreme beauty as Stefan did. And so she couldn't stop the returning smile that appeared onto her own lips.

When he turned back towards her, the shyness he had shown only moments ago was gone, and in its place was a look that smouldered. Oh, he definitely held some similar attributes to his brother. Firstly, he switched from one feeling to another in a heartbeat, and also, he knew how to make you want to set yourself on fire just so you don't have to look at him any longer, because it's just that painful.

"Do you have an escort?" He queried.

Escort? What?

Oh, the ball.

"No." She replied and surprise revealed itself on his face.

"Elena!" Katherine whined from slightly behind.

Elena turned, eyed the place where her twin sister's arm was interlocked with Damon's, and brought her slow, leisured steps to a stop. Naturally, Stefan did the same.

"What colour are you planning on wearing tonight?" Katherine asked her once they'd caught up.

Elena took a moment then looked to Stefan. "Green,"

Katherine huffed petulantly, tossed a few curls over her shoulder then set off in a temper down the trail again, dragging Damon along with her.

Elena burst into laughter. A sound she hadn't heard from her own mouth for a while, and felt a thrill when Stefan joined her.

"I think my sister had hoped she would attend tonight's ball with both of you on her arm." Elena pointed out once they continued their leisured walking.

Stefan's eyebrows rose. "Really?"

"Oh, yes."

"Well, I'm not one to share. And as far as I know, neither is my brother."

Oh! Elena said nothing in return, only fiddled with her cuticles and watched as she did so.

"Was that what you were hoping for?"

She looked up at him sideways. "Excuse me?"

"That we would both be on Katherine's arm tonight." Stefan confirmed.

"Oh, no!" she exclaimed. "That is much too gluttonous, in my opinion."

"So, then you prefer the affections of one man, and one man only?"

Did she? Yes, she would've thought so.

"Yes." She told him whole-heartedly and his returning smile was satisfied. Did he like her? Fancy her? Or was it Katherine he wanted? She could never be sure when it came to that issue. The last thing she wanted was to be a Katherine replacement. The thought of it made her heart sink. Why couldn't it for once be that Katherine was an Elena replacement? What was it about Katherine that drew so many men to her?

"You and your sister are very different."

Elena grimaced. "Yes... we are."

Normally, she would relish in such a statement, find it a compliment. But right now, in regards to these two brothers, she found it unsettling and a nuisance.

Not that she wanted her sister's selfishness and her spoilt nature. She liked the person she was; she just didn't find pleasure in the fact that men preferred Katherine to her.

"That disappoints you?" Stefan asked, surprised.

Elena paused briefly. "No, no. I... I'm not sure."

"It shouldn't." He kept his eyes on the ending of the trail in front of them. "You are much more enjoyable company."

Her eyes widened and Stefan caught onto it.

"I'm sorry, that was rude."

"No...That's..." she stopped and looked up at him. "Thank you."

He smiled. It was one of kindness and grace. He was truly beautiful. "You are most welcome."

Evening was closing in when the four of them began their return to the cottage. Elena noticed Katherine's anxiety by the way she clung to Damon's arm and peered around the trees at each side of the trail they walked upon. She shook her head, keeping hers loose within Stefan's.

It really had been an enjoyable day. When they arrived at the village, Katherine practically dragged her off in the direction of the few shops where fortunately Elena had planned to meet her closest friend, Caroline Forbes, daughter of Bill Forbes, the village mayor.

It hadn't taken Elena or Caroline much time to decide on a dress for the ball, but of course, Katherine took much longer than was necessary. Because in the end, she decided on a dress she had took an immediate fancy to at the very start of their search. It was truly stunning, no one could deny that. And of course, it was red. And it put her breasts on perfect display, because God forbid she wear anything that wouldn't get a man's motor revving, or make the girls of the village turn green with envy.

Speaking of green, she had stuck to her word and purchased a royal green dress, even if it had been a ploy at annoying Katherine at the time. And by the time they had reunited with the brothers, they too had purchased suits for tonight's ball. But still, even with her newly formed companionship with Stefan, and the added distraction that came in the form of her bubbly, blonde best friend, she couldn't help but be more than aware of Damon's presence for the entire day. She had even been tempted to buy a blue dress instead of green at a certain point, but decided against it. She scolded herself for even being tempted to wear a dress the same colour as his eyes, until she realized that's exactly what she'd done this morning. She was already wearing a dress that matched his eyes. How ridiculous was that? All she could hope was that she hadn't done it purposely. No, of course she wouldn't have. He annoyed her to the extreme.

They had reached the end of the trail by the time she'd finished with her thoughts, and she couldn't resist the urge to take a peek across at Damon, who was still attached to her sister. He noticed her gaze on him and turned. His eyes heated the moment they fell on her.

Was that anger? Why would he be angry with her? She'd barely spoken a few words to him all day.

Before she could further it, Stefan's arm shifted closer to his torso, effectively pulling her tighter to him. Elena smiled and gazed up at him.

They crossed the clearing in silence, and whilst Katherine and Damon ascended the front porch steps, and had disappeared inside the cottage, Stefan brought Elena to a stop.

"There's something I've been meaning to ask you." Stefan said.

Elena smiled. He was nervous, and it flattered her. "Yes?"

"It would give me great honour if I could accompany you to the ball tonight."

Her smile widened until it could go no further. She had hoped he would ask her. He made her feel content, comfortable, if that was even possible after a day of knowing someone. Still, he didn't make her uneasy or furious like Damon did. She got along well with Stefan. Just as she'd predicted she would this morning.

"Yes, of course." She told him.

"Even if it's just as friends," He added.

Friends. Yes, that sounded good to her.

She nodded and held out her hand to him. "Friends,"

He took it, turned it in his hand and placed a chaste kiss upon her knuckles.

Then he turned to take the porch steps. As he reached the top, he turned back to her, a confused expression plastered on his face. "Aren't you coming?"

"Yes, I'll follow in a few minutes."

Stefan nodded once and entered the cottage, leaving her to the silence. She sighed and ran both hands down the front of her dress.

"I see my little brother is making friends." A silky voice said from behind, and Elena automatically turned to meet it. She had known who it was the moment the first syllable left his mouth. Anyone would know that voice. It was much too seductive to not recognise from the get-go. "Always such a nice thing to see,"

She swallowed as he took the steps casually. "Unlike you, he doesn't repel people from the moment he meets them."

He chuckled, unrestrained and adorable. "That's a fiery temper you have there, Miss Pierce."

Again, his words seemed to touch her. Run over her skin like they were silk.

She scowled up at him while picking at her cuticles. He noticed and smirked.

"Nervous?"

Her head shook in quick response.

"Do I make you nervous?"

"No." She managed. Was it a lie? He made her uneasy, uncomfortable. Angry, mostly.

"I think I do make you nervous." He reached out his index finger to trace her cheekbone but she stepped back. It elicited a smile to curve on his perfectly formed lips and his hand to drop back to his side.

"I must get ready." She revealed, obviously flustered and refusing to meet his hot and intense gaze. Why did he always look at her like that?

She abruptly turned, rushed up the steps and pulled open the front door.

"Elena?" He called after her, forcing her to halt in her movements. "Save me a dance."

And she slowly began to nod.

Save him a dance? She'd rather scratch out her eyeballs. Elena huffed in aggravation and tossed aside her hairbrush. He had some nerve, trying to touch her inappropriately then requesting that she save him a dance. Just who did he think he was? And why on earth had she accepted?

She was angry. She was angry at him, she was angry at herself. She should've told him to stick his dance where the sun doesn't shine, not nod like an idiot. She felt like she'd just made a deal with the devil, and more importantly, it excited her. And she hated herself for it.

She exhaled for what was most likely the fifth time since she'd drew through the cottage and into her room. She agreed to a dance with him. She reminded herself. His hands would be on her, their bodies would be almost touching as he led her around the dance floor. This was dangerous. She had willingly accepted an invitation into shark-infested waters, with no means of protection.

She gulped in regards to the image of his hands being on her. This was not good.

Maybe if she avoided him? She could convince Stefan to dance with her, or she could subtly persuade Katherine to keep Damon occupied for the entire night. Yes, that could prove successful.

But was it what she really wanted?

She eyed her reflection in the mirror and ran both hands down the front of the emerald ball gown, the pads of her fingers catching the black embellishment edged at the wide, fully rounded neckline that consisted of beads and sequins. With the large width of the neckline, it allowed almost all of her narrow shoulders on show, along with a tantalizing view of her cleavage.

It fitted her small frame perfectly due to fully lined and boned structure of the bodice. Even earlier, when her grandmother had laced the dress up to a close, Elena had no choice but to admit she was looking her best for the ball. But still, she had no doubt it would wane in comparison to Katherine's appearance once she was eventually met with it through the ritual gather in the front room.

And the fact that the idea of Katherine outshining her, bothered her, gave her an unsettling feeling.

She rotated on the spot, slowly, and over her shoulder she gazed at the back of the dress. The same collection of thick black embroidery located at the same deep, well-rounded neck-line as the front. Travelling downwards, she took in the waterfall effect of the back of the heavy skirt and with one tug of it with her fingers, revealed the three layers of stiffened, pleated black lace underneath.

One final exhale and a slow run of her palms down the bodice of her dress and onto the silken material that covered the large collection of skirts underneath it, she relished in the feel of it under her fingers for a moment before turning around entirely to be met with the re-appearance of her grandmother. Shoes e stood in the doorway with a look of complete awe.

Elena bit down on her lip and gave herself another once over. "Is it...pleasing?" she queried, filled with doubt.

"Oh, it is more than that. You are the very definition of true, unrestrained beauty." Rose returned with a voice of thick emotion.

Elena blushed fiercely. "Thank you."

"Come, I have something for you." Rose approached her, holding up a small silver necklace that dangled from in between her fingers. "This was your mothers." She motioned for Elena to turn around and Elena quickly did as she was asked. Rose carefully pushed aside Elena's curled locks and slipped the dainty chain around her slender neck, ensuring the pendant lay just above the valley of her breasts. Elena gazed at it, getting lost in the heart-shaped clear diamond as her eyes glistened with unshed tears. It was familiar, and it made her heart swell with the memories of it hanging just as it was now, around her mother's neck. She never took it off. Not even when she slept, nor when she bathed. But it wasn't there when she found them lifeless on the ground of their home, covered in blood. It had been tossed aside whilst the flawless skin of her neck was broken, ripped apart by two fierce holes. "She had wanted to give it to you for your twenty-first birthday, or at your wedding, she had not completely decided. However, I think now is a better time than ever." Rose fastened it easily and put Elena's hair back into place.

After a few moments, Elena spoke. "Why give it to me, why not Katherine?"

"It would be of no use to Katherine."

Elena frowned and turned to look directly at her grandmother.

"It's a witch's pendant." Rose revealed, coaxing a gasp from Elena.

"It is? Mother never told us that's what it was." She exclaimed.

"It draws energy from any living thing. It'll make you stronger. It'll keep you safe."

It didn't keep mother safe, she thought then quickly pushed it aside. She wouldn't think of that tonight. She would enjoy herself.

She reached up to touch the diamond, a sad smile painted on her red lips. "It's perfect."

Rose nodded in agreement then took a step back to take in Elena's appearance as a whole again. "As are you,"

It triggered another blush from Elena. Then she gathered the heavy skirt of her gown in both hands and followed her grandmother through to the front room.

Butterflies erupted from the pit of her stomach and travelled through its entirety as she took in the sight of the two brothers stood in welcoming to her. Both were dressed in immaculate black suits, the jackets tailed and settled on top of a white dress shirt and waistcoat. Whilst the suits almost resembled one another exactly, the waistcoat was where they differed. Stefan's was white patterned, while Damon's was black. Fitting, Elena thought.

Their black shoes shone and their black hats lay waiting on the large armchair. Then she reached their faces. And she discovered their expressions too, were as different as the waistcoats they wore.

Stefan looked in awe of her, whilst Damon... was hungry. His clear blue eyes drank her in like she was his favourite wine and it made her tremble.

Oh, my.

It made her hot, it made her shiver with the chill of his icy blue eyes, it made everything south of her body clench in anticipation. How was it even possible for him to have this sort of effect on her? It wasn't natural, was it? Surely not.

"Elena, you look..." Stefan breathed and tried to grasp the accurate word.

"Stunning," Damon finished for him with added prominence and Elena blushed. The usual arrogance or glibness in his tone was nowhere to be found, not at this very moment anyway. But she wouldn't get her hopes up. It would be back. Undeniably.

"Thank you." She murmured shyly.

And in sauntered Katherine in all her glory. The red gown she had purchased earlier today fit to her body like a second skin, accentuating her breasts and the narrowness of her waist. It was similar to Elena's, except more... provocative. It had the same gathered, waterfall effect at the back and the same black decoration at the edge of the neckline, except on Katherine's, it was lace.

Elena searched Damon's face, her bones turning green with envy to match her dress when she noticed him rake over Katherine like she was his favourite dessert.

She quickly averted her eyes to save herself from any humiliation and moved to join her grandmother in aiding Katherine to ensure she was perfect.

Elena picked a lock of her twin sister's hair then let it fall back into place.

"You look beautiful, sister." Elena told her.

Katherine smiled, her expression beaming and gave a swift; 'As do you,' before returning to her fiddle with the lace at the front of her dress.

"Miss Elena?" Stefan called.

Elena turned, a smile on her lips as she met with Stefan's approaching figure. "Elena." She corrected.

He chuckled, almost shyly. "Elena." An amused smile remained on his lips and it was indeed, beautiful. These two were going to be the death of so many women, she was sure. "You're riding with me." He educated.

She was slightly taken aback. "Riding?"

"Yes, we're taking the horses. It'll be safer."

Not bothering to put up an argument, Elena nodded and accepted the arm Stefan held out for her.

The ride into the village was smooth, Elena kept her arm fastened around Stefan's slender waist whilst her leg was crossed comfortably over the other and hung over the side of the horse beneath the skirts of her dress. Obviously she had slipped into a warm coat and gloves before leaving the cottage. It was winter after all.

Grasping onto Stefan tight, she turned and peered over her shoulder to ensure Damon and Katherine were close behind. Satisfied to find they were, she turned back around and loosened up the tight grip her fingers had on Stefan's torso. Just as she did, he covered her hands with one of his and gave a comforting squeeze.

He thought she was scared. Her heart melted.

He was sweet, and perfect. But did she see him that way? Earlier, she had found great comfort in the idea of them going to the ball as friends, as just friends.

Of course, he was handsome, beautiful even, and he was kind and thoughtful. But he didn't make her heart race... he didn't fluster her. He didn't make her tremble.

His hand remained on hers, warming it although they were gloved, as the other held onto the horse's reigns for the rest of the journey. He brought the horse to a stop with a drawn out tug of them once they reached the grounds surrounding the large and immaculate mansion.

Swinging a leg over, he inaudibly dropped down to the ground then turned to offer her assistance. Taking it, she placed both hands on each of his shoulders, feeling the muscles flex underneath her palms, then allowed him to take all of her weight as he shifted her down until her heeled shoes kissed the ground.

She pushed her hair from her face once he let her go and she looked up at him. "Thank you."

He smiled. "You're welcome."

Damon and Katherine's arrival caught their attention and there it stayed as Damon gracefully climbed down from the horse and just like Stefan, offered his help to Katherine. Naturally she took it, a more than satisfied smile on her full lips and a hungry blaze in her black eyes. Elena internally rolled her chocolate eyes. Three guesses what she's thinking of doing tonight.

Well, at least their bedrooms weren't close. They were practically at opposite ends of the cottage. And it wasn't until now she'd been so relieved for that fact. Of course, she'd felt grateful for the large space between their bedrooms every time Katherine brought someone new back and took them into her bedroom. But the truth was she didn't want to hear him.

Elena turned away and approached Stefan, who was tying up the horse by its reigns to the iron fence.

Stefan held out an arm for her, she took it and he led her inside the Forbes mansion occupied with the entire village population.

Elena kept her arm secured within Stefan's as they drew through the huge arched doorway of the mansion, a soft gasp flying past her lips as the inside hit her. Completely awe-stricken, she drank in the stunning décor she had no doubt Caroline had a hand in doing. The flow of music coming from the main hall encircled her, warming her. It was elegant, graceful, yet enticing. Long, golden candle holders with lit cream wax candles were set out in clusters at every corner of the huge foyer, creating a warm and magnificent glow against the matching cream coloured walls and gold decorations throughout. She'd been here before, countless times, but never when it was like this. If she didn't know better, she would've assumed she had stepped into heaven itself.

She couldn't help the smile that tugged at her lips. They were merely in the foyer, not even had they reached the main hall where there would be dancing, drinks and all sorts of entertainment. God only knew what Caroline had in store for that. And personally, Elena couldn't wait.

"Can I take your coat, miss?" A young, fresh-faced, well-dressed man asked when coming to a stop in front of them.

Elena smiled, retrieved her arm and allowed Stefan to help her out of her coat. The young man took it then patiently waited until Stefan handed over his own.

Elena murmured a quick and pleasant 'thank you' and he scurried off.

Once again, Stefan held out an arm for her. She took it happily and leaned her body perfectly against his whilst following his lead through the second set of opened golden doors. They slowed to another stop. It was an even more magnificent sight than the foyer. But of course, she wouldn't have expected anything less, not from Caroline.

They both gazed around, utterly astonished. The low hung ceiling chandeliers and candles matched the ones from the foyer, as well as the glossy, gold marble floors that almost allowed you the sight of your own reflection.

A long staircase ran up to the balcony above, supported by numerous rich gold pillars. The ceiling was higher here than any other room in the mansion, and shone down on them with a version of heaven itself. Beautiful winged cherubs flying amongst a golden sky of clouds.

The music had transformed into more of an upbeat number and Elena watched as guests began to partner up to dance.

Then Caroline appeared from a small cluster of people with a glass of champagne in one white gloved hand while the other hung at her side. Her bright blue eyes found Elena and flashed with excitement and soft blonde curls bounced slightly as she approached them.

"Elena!" she exclaimed, almost breathless, took Elena in for a quick hug and placed a kiss to her cheek. "You look beautiful."

"So do you." Elena returned with matched enthusiasm.

Caroline wore a pale pink coloured gown made entirely of silk, decorated with a much darker shade of pink velvet, cut in the shape of long-stemmed roses. It fell neatly off her shoulders and had a reasonably sized train behind her.

Caroline's eyes shifted to catch Stefan. A soft, almost inaudible gasp left her.

It was safe to say, Caroline was impressed.

Closing her popped open mouth, and blinking a few more times, she recovered faster than Elena predicted. She lifted a hand up for Stefan.

"Caroline," she mused. "Caroline Forbes."

Stefan returned her smile and took her hand. "Stefan Salvatore."

His bare thumb caressed the silk of her glove whilst his lips placed a kiss to her knuckles. They remained that way for longer than necessary. Their eyes locked, the sky shining down on the glittering leaves of summer, his soft lips grazing silk.

Then Stefan straightened up, and Caroline returned her hand to her side. Elena held back a laugh as Caroline guzzled down the remainder of her drink.

Stefan turned to Elena, then back to Caroline. "A drink?"

"Yes, please." Elena answered on both accounts.

With that, he set off towards one of the waiters holding a tray of glasses filled with champagne.

"Oh my, Elena," Caroline gasped, gliding to Elena's side and taking hold of her elbow to pull her from the entrance. "Where did he come from?"

Elena giggled. "Actually, I don't know. He and his brother are here investigating the murders."

"There's a brother?"

Elena nodded once. "Yes, Damon." She let it roll of her tongue then fell into silence, not wanting to go into any further detail.

"Damon," Caroline tested it out. "Strong...masculine. How does he look?"

Elena fiddled with the tips of her gloves. "He's...acceptable."

Liar, an inner voice chastised.

"Well, where is he?"

Elena paused for a beat. "He's… escorting Katherine."

Caroline's angelic features twisted into a form of complete disgust. "Why?"

"Because he desired to do so?" Elena offered.

Caroline exhaled with the disgust that enveloped her face. "If he's as beautiful as his brother then I'm not letting her get her claws into him."

Oh, he is. "Why?"

"Because," Caroline pulled her even further across the hall, into a corner that deemed them privacy. "She's bedded every man that walks this village, and probably who attend this party. She doesn't deserve to marry, Elena."

"She's just… impulsive."

"Oh, don't you defend her. You disagree with what she does as much as I do."

Elena couldn't argue with that. "Yes, I disagree with what she does, how she acts, but I think she's taking things harder than she lets on. Since our parents died... her faults, her everything, has been so much more. But I won't wish her a life without love, or marriage. I wouldn't wish that upon anyone."

"Then I will." Caroline murmured playfully.

Stefan returned, not just with their drinks. Behind him, arm in arm, was Katherine and Damon. What, were they attached or something?

Caroline and Elena shared a look then took the drinks handed to them by Stefan.

"Damon," Caroline greeted him sweetly and lifted her hand. Freeing his arm, he took it with his smirk in place, and kissed her knuckles. "I've heard so much about you."

Elena shot a scowl at her friend then turned to find a knowing look from Damon as he gazed at her. Terrific.

"All bad, I assume." Damon mused.

Caroline chuckled and swept to his side. "Care to dance?"

Damon turned to Elena. Then back to Caroline. "It would be my pleasure."

First passing her drink to Stefan, then hooking a slender arm through his muscled one, Caroline turned to provide Elena with a satisfied smile then to Katherine, who wore a more than aggravated look.

Oh. Understanding ran through Elena. She was desperate to laugh, but she managed to stifle it.

She watched as her friend, with her plan in full motion, took a spot on the dance-floor part of the hall. Her arm went up to rest her hand on Damon's shoulder while his hand found its way to her waist and their free ones clasped together.

Not desiring to watch any longer, Elena turned to discover Stefan watching just as she had been.

"You're not drinking?"

He turned, no longer distracted. "I have to keep the senses sharp." He told her with a smile as he took to her side. "Just in case,"

"For the investigation?" She queried quietly. "You needn't worry tonight."

"Indeed I don't." he smiled again. "I am, after all, in the company of a powerful witch."

Elena mouth popped open. When she realized her mistake in being surprised, closed it again. She took a large sip of champagne. "Damon."

"Yes. He told me of your," he lifted his hands to create quote marks with his fingers. "Abilities."

Elena laughed, shaking her head.

"Still, I can be of some use." He assured. "Me and my brother, we have our hunting skills, our investigative skills and we plan on catching what's responsible for these murders."

"Where did you learn them?"

"Our father." He answered simply, returning his gaze to the dancing couples. "He raised us like warriors."

Elena felt a pang of sympathy, followed by a wonder of what their father was like, what he looked like. Did Stefan resemble him, or Damon? He can't have been neutering to them if he raised them like they were warriors, could he?

She couldn't help but want to know more. She hadn't bothered to want to find out about them a day ago, but now, she was as hooked as Katherine seemed to be, except her own intentions were not to do with getting them into her bed.

"Was he a hunter, an investigator?"

"He was the finest of our hometown."

"Home, where is that?"

"Italy."

"Italy, it sounds wonderful." Her comment was filled with awe and wonderment. She took another drink.

He looked at her. "You've never been?"

"No," she said, almost sadly. "I've never been anywhere, I know of nothing except this village."

"But you come from England."

"Yes, I was born in England. My mother and father fled this village when she was pregnant with Katherine and I. They settled in a small village in England. We were born there, and that's where we lived until we were thirteen. But the memories... are fading. The more time goes on, the less I remember of it. It's strange, as if this has been my home all along."

The stop of the music interrupted their conversation and triggered a natural turn of their heads to see Caroline scurrying over, breathless and excited. No sign of Damon, Elena noticed.

Nor Katherine, she concluded once she'd done a sweep of the hall. When had she disappeared?

Caroline retrieved her glass and took a long gulp. "Did I miss anything important?"

Catching sight of something familiar across the hall, Elena set her almost empty glass down. "No, but Stefan was just saying how he would love to ask you to dance."

Distracted, she failed to relish in the blush she succeeded in erupting upon Stefan's face, along with his taking of Caroline's hand and leading her to the dance floor. Pushing it aside for the moment, she grabbed up her gown and set off.

"Uncle John?" She beckoned, unsure if it was actually him. But by the matt of blonde hair that was slightly thinning out due to old age, told her it had to be.

He turned. His blue eyes lit up when they landed on her, and she couldn't stop the smile that threatened to crack her face in half. He looked so much like her father, with the exception of their eyes and hair being complete opposites.

"Uncle John!" She launched at him and was caught around the waist by his strong arms.

"Ma biche." He said with soft affection, squeezed her tight then set her back down.

"You've been gone so long." Elena pointed out with a hint of grief in her voice.

"I know," He reached out a hand to momentarily caress the side of her face then let it fall away. "I'm sorry, darling."

"Where did you go?"

"To other villages across the borders." He replied, his eyes shifting around the hall. "I had an important matter to attend to."

"For the business?"

He stopped. And a smile that reminded her of her father presented itself upon his face. "Yes, for the business." He said, all the uneasiness suddenly disappeared.

"I could help; I could be of assistance with the workers. I pick up things quite quickly."

"I have complete confidence that you would be of great help, but your father, not to mention your grandmother would have me throttled if I even considered putting you to work in such conditions. You have the beauty and grace of a princess and a princess has no place with miners."

"That's an opinion, not a fact."

"Still, I won't see to it." He persisted. "Besides, are you not running your mother's dress shop?"

"Yes, I am."

Though it didn't feel right to be doing so, Elena thought glumly.

"And Katherine?" he took a sip of champagne.

"She's…helping."

He nodded once, a knowing look on his face. "Speaking of, where is the kitten? Keeping her-self entertained with the locals?"

"No, there are two new arrivals she has to keep her entertained." She kept the bitterness that seeped into the words to a minimum.

He refrained from taking another drink. "Arrivals?"

"Yes, Damon and Stefan Salvatore, they're here because of the murders. They're hunters, or investigators, whichever you prefer."

Surprise reintroduced itself to John. "How many more have there been?"

"Since your departure," she took a moment to consider. "Four."

"Four?" His exclamation was hushed, yet still outrage filled it. "There had only been one when I left."

"Well, it didn't stop there, whatever it is that's doing this." She leaned in close, and John obliged her by doing the same. "They all suspect the wolves."

His brow furrowed. He was aggravated. More so than she was in regards to such a ridiculous concept.

"Who does?" he demanded.

"The entire village," a simmer of panic presented itself as she spoke. "They're all set on the theory that it is the wolves. What if they harm them, uncle? I couldn't bear it."

"They're too cowardice to do anything. They're frightened; I could tell the moment I set foot in here. I just didn't know the reason."

"But there are hunters here now." She pressed. "Hunters with rifles, they have the skills, the courage to rid of the wolves. It's what they came here for."

John contemplated for a few moments, his brow remaining intensely creased. "Because they believe the wolves are guilty?"

"Yes." She breathed.

"Then you must prove their innocence."

She studied him, perplexed.

"You find who is guilty for these murders; prove that it isn't the wolves. They cannot put the wolves to death without motive, without physical evidence. They have none."

"Uncle, I cannot-

"The wolves won't harm you, they never have." He assured. "You know how this family feels about them. That loyalty, that instinct to protect them, it comes from your parents, it's there because you were practically raised with the wolves. They're a part of you." He was desperate, that was easy to see. And she also knew that the wolves had always been important to her family, her parents, her grandparents, her great grandparents, they'd all held some fierce fondness and loyalty towards the wolves.

"We need you to do this."

Elena didn't need to ask who he meant by 'we', nor did she have to ask why it had to be her. Though she'd been tempted. She could only assume it was because she was the most reliable, and of course, her 'abilities'. She was strong enough, she was capable.

"Then I shall do it."