This update took longer to post because I have been swamped with finals and graduation prep (which I am officially done with and is now a college graduate whew!)
But once again, each chapter the reviews get better and I love seeing you guys as excited as I am for whats to come. Truly appreciative. Keep it up!
I know, it's a very slow burn in this story and that usually turns people off but I PROMISE it will be worth it. Be patient with me...
Happy reading (:
Tyler admired Caroline from across the table, leaning back on his chair as she digested her grimoire and paying him no mind. After lunch they both had free period which is usually when they engaged in quality alone time together but found themselves in a study room instead.
He knew how busy she's been lately and his schedule was no better which prompted his plans to woo her into immense PDA for the next 40 minutes. But Caroline had other plans, stressing herself out to get things done and was too focused on her work to notice her boyfriend's prying eyes.
Almost.
"You're staring." She sang with a smile, making it clear she sensed him far before saying anything.
The werewolf smiled back. "What can I say, I like the view." He shrugged.
"Cheesy. Very cheesy." Caroline softly laughed under her breath shaking her head and continued reading.
She hadn't noticed Tyler sitting up from his chair and subtly moved to her side of the booth now right beside her. His immediate warmth was hard to hide so she wasn't too shaken up even when he pushed a strand of hair behind her ear with his finger.
Caroline didn't allow the close proximity to phase her, teasing him by not giving the attention she knows he's desperate for was reward enough.
"Would it be less cheesy if I had very dirty intentions?" He said suggestively against her skin.
Her slight shiver not enough reason to give in. She dismissed his seductive promises with a shrug and abruptly changed the subject. "Want to see this new spell I learned? Your girl can basically cause a wildfire using just her mind." Caroline proudly claimed with a widened smile.
Of course she was proud.
It was a spell she had been working on since last semester for her senior seminar class that she consistently messed up on; whether ingredient measurements or other distractions. Multiple trials later, she felt it was finally perfected and was eager to show it to the person she cared most about.
Tyler brushed off her comment with nonchalant nods with lips seeking out her skin again.
"Later, much later." He suggested with his lips brushing her cheek before dipping lower to caress her jaw and kissing repeatedly. His hand grabbing one side of her face to keep her head at an angle as his sensual actions continued.
Caroline momentarily lost herself in the feel of his affections, forgetting her hurt from his dismal of her excitement.
Tyler was a great boyfriend majority of the time, but he wasn't the best support system when it came to her witchery. When they were just friends, he always claimed how confusing witches were and how the witchcraft gave him the creeps, but then he fell for Caroline. She thought with him being with her it'd encourage him to learn more about what she is and but it never came and she didn't press him about it.
The book nearly dropped after her shallow moan of appreciation. His other hand venturing lower to her waist pulling her closer.
A part of her wanted to indulge and relax but she knew how irresponsible it would be if she succumbed. Her eyes closed for a second before opening wide soon after. She couldn't risk sparing any time or being distracted.
Lightly pushing him against his chest when he attempted to drifting lower onto her neck, Caroline groaned.
"Stop." She whined lightly pushing him away.
Tyler sighed frustratingly and annoyed. His fingers ran through his hair wildly as he sat up his chair with a scowl. "Really Care?"
Caroline threw her hands in the air. "What? I told you I have a lot of work to do."
"And I don't?" He raised his voice. "Yeah, I have tons of assignments and football but I still make time for you, for us. To steal these moments with each other while we can..." Leaning in for another kiss that Caroline immediately dodged.
The blonde scoffed turning her face. "Seriously? That's what this is about, you're pissed because I don't want to make out with you whenever you want?" She accused.
"Honestly? Yeah, kinda." He admitted. "Or maybe I'm just pissed that my girlfriend seems to be more into her stupid spell book than me."
Caroline's head shot up with an upset snarl. "It's not stupid." She defended.
Tyler pressed his lips into a line appearing apologetic. "Hey," Grabbing her hand into his affectionately. "I'm sorry babe, okay? I just miss you and feel like we haven't spent a lot of time together lately. We're the royal couple at this school but I don't feel very royal-like when I'm not with you." He joked making Caroline grin at the corniness.
It wasn't that Caroline was intentionally trying to blow Tyler off but she genuinely had a full plate of responsibilities, not to mention her mother informing her earlier in the day she'd be visiting some time this week. Whitmore's first football game was in just a few days, homecoming committee meetings were tomorrow; her class work and personal work were clashing. The pressure kept piling on and she longed for a break that would never come, and Tyler was a part of the break she needed.
She gave him a warm smile, leaning into him to capture his lips in a sweet but brief kiss. "I know, I'm sorry too. I know I'm a mess and probably the worst girlfriend ever."
Tyler looked up, pretending to ponder. "Not the worst..." He teased making Caroline laugh.
"I appreciate you wanting to make time for me, I do. But you know how important my lineage is and what it means to my family to remain the supreme witch by the time I graduate." She explained.
"I get it, you know I do." Tyler sighed. "I get how important this is for you but it's not everything, right? You're more than just spells and shrunken heads." He laughed.
Caroline's forehead slightly creased in irritation. Irritated that Tyler wasn't understanding what she was trying to say at all.
- He really doesn't get it.
Tyler's hands crept up on both sides of her face softly. "I want you, Care. I like being with you but lately it seems I've been in a relationship with you and the grimoire."
"Oh, you mean how I felt last semester with you and your football
Her response died when his mouth covered hers briefly with a promising kiss. The abrupt act of affection stunned the blonde witch who's air nearly knocked out her lungs from the aggression. He pulled away with an event brighter smile that she reciprocated, deciding not to start another argument.
"Let's go away this weekend just you, me and my parents' lake house. The next full moon isn't for a couple of weeks so I'll still be around. Perfect opportunity for us to, reconnect." He suggested.
She nearly forgot about the full moon that occurred once a month was quickly approaching.
Caroline dreaded this time of the month because Tyler would go home to, 'handle the situation'. He never wanted to be near, on the certainty that he would hurt someone on campus; most importantly Caroline despite her fascination. Instead, his parents arranged a deal with Headmistress Saltzman for approved leave once a month.
Money can get you anything.
He would run wild and free in the dark woods near his mansion, about 30 minutes from the school.
Without a doubt Caroline missed him during that time but a romantic getaway? As if they were a married couple trying to keep their love alive instead of just two teenagers who needed a breather.
The witch's mouth agape. "Tyler-"
"Imagine how beautiful and peaceful it'd be to have a little getaway before things get too wild around here. Before we both become caught up in other stuff and really won't have much time together till graduation. And, my parents said I can use it whenever I want." Tyler excitedly proposed.
Caroline nervously laughed. "You realize we have school, right?"
"Obviously," Rolling his eyes. "But it's just the weekend and all we need is the approval from Headmistress Saltzman then it's a done deal." He said nonchalantly.
Tyler turned Caroline's chair until she was completely facing him. She slightly flinched when he grabbed her hand again and leaving a kiss on her knuckles.
"We're stressed already, especially you, and being on campus all the time is probably making it worse." He accurately claimed. "A weekend away is exactly what the doctor ordered." He said with a convincing smile.
It was a very tempting offer that Caroline would usually jump at the opportunity for.
The Lockwood lake house was legendary, especially during Summer vacation. Tyler came from a wealthy family as well, his father was the Mayor of Whitmore though he had to keep his family tree a secret from the public. Nothing would hurt more in his campaign than everyone finding out their dear mayor and his son were half beast. Tyler's mom was human, marrying into the supernatural improved her knowledge on the nature of werewolves; it's what Caroline wished Tyler would do for her. Caroline only met his parents a few times and never feeling more cold and inferior than talking to Mrs. Lockwood.
They allowed Tyler to rent out the lake house that had been passed down by generations. All his parties were lively and extravagant. Nearly the entire class was invited, minus vampires of course. Not to mention it sat on the most beautiful lake in town with the perfect view of the dusk and dawn. Caroline loved it and being there would probably be the perfect stress relief.
She sighed defeated. "That sounds so nice, really, but I don't have much time to spare especially with this group assignment from Professor Sommers' class that determines if I graduate or not. Can you believe she really paired me with Klaus Mikaelson?"
The werewolf's eyebrows shot up curiously. "Mikaelson? Why do you two have a class together?"
"It's a general education class, everyone's allowed apparently." Caroline said disapprovingly.
"Huh..." Pressing his lips together.
"Yeah I know. Literally couldn't have received a better graduation gift, right?" She rolled her eyes with a laugh.
Caroline's joking expression faded when she noticed Tyler's face drop and feeling his body tense.
He took a deep breath and slightly relaxed noticing his girlfriend's concerned face.
When he placed a comforting hand on top of hers she felt more calm. "Sorry, sorry it's not you. I just really don't like that guy." He admitted.
"Join the club." She agreed with a wide smile and arms around his neck to bring him in for a deep kiss.
Their lips smooth against each other and in perfect rhythm. He pulled her closer, both arms around her waist tightly and moaning between kisses.
She knew Tyler was just trying to be a good boyfriend, it was more than appreciated and she wanted to be good to him as well; he's yet to give her a reason not to be. She was becoming her own enemy, her personal thoughts and revelations blocking her from reality.
- Fake it till you make it.
She told herself, figuring this was just another one of her phases that would blow over in a day or two.
The werewolf pulled away from the embrace to speak. "But if he ever gives you a hard time-"
"Don't worry. I can handle him." She smiled into another kiss. "Who do you think makes a sport out of giving him aneurysms?"
Tyler laughed in agreement, kissing her lips a final time.
Per usual, Caroline arrived to class before everyone else with three textbooks in her arms and a scowl on her face. Lately she hadn't been bubbly happy Caroline that everyone knows and loves.
She was already having a chaotic day, not to mention one of her cheerleaders sprained their ankle which meant Caroline has to change the squad's formation and she had to prep for another meeting tonight with her coven to discuss homecoming. She performed a minor soothing spell on herself before class to ease her through this last class, especially because today was the first day of working on class projects.
Literally the last thing Caroline wanted to do today was endure vampire company for 40 minutes.
Now sitting at her seat she pushed her hair out her face and began organizing her desk area before class began.
Organization kept her semi sane.
She spread out all her notebooks and pens, color coordinated and perfectly parallel of each other.
Caroline glanced up at the sound of an annoying female laughter coming from the entrance.
More and more students arrived and cleared her view at the nauseating sight of Klaus and the infamous short redhead vampire. Her back pressed against the threshold stupidly laughing at whatever Klaus was saying while he practically towered over her.
The girl was clearly whipped. He could've been telling her it's cold outside or he lost his car keys and she would think it was the funniest thing in the world.
- Gross. Imagine being that sprung over Klaus Mikaelson.
She cringed.
This was the second time Caroline's seen them together all cuddled up looking and acting like a couple; at least this time they were fully clothed. Still she was trying to burn that image out her head.
Caroline never noticed them together before this semester and now they popped up everywhere she turned in the most sickening fashion.
Klaus kept his hands in his pockets but the girl wouldn't stop touching him like she'd die if she didn't. Both her hands caressing his chest through his white Henley seductively, and thigh settled between his. Klaus didn't seem as enthused with her affections but he also wasn't dodging anything to stop it, smirking and egging her on. When he did show a hint of a smile it seemed genuine, and he didn't appear annoyed by her either.
- Maybe it is two-sided?
Caroline found it difficult to not analyze the scene in front of her. It was hard to look away, like watching a tragic car crash.
Caroline wanted to gag. They were so transfixed into each other neither bothered to move out the doorway for the student entering. If anything the redhead used it as an excuse to subtly push herself closer into his body.
- Amateur.
The blonde rolled her eyes.
- Shit!
She screamed in her head when Klaus turned and her prying eyes met his. His weren't amused or smug. The smirk on his face slowly lowering like he was caught doing something wrong.
The witch's face reddened in embarrassment from Klaus catching her watching him, again. Of all the times she's pestered him about creeping on her and now here she was imitating his habit. There was no way he wouldn't bring this up during class time, and she had to endure 40 minutes of his company and now teasing.
- Great.
Caroline flipped her hair to one side focusing on the task before her and continued preparing for class even when the bell rang and everyone began taking their seats. She heard Professor Sommers walk in with greetings but couldn't bare looking up to acknowledge her, not when she was trying to avoid Klaus as long as possible.
- Why are you always staring at him!
Thankfully she didn't witness Klaus kiss the redhead goodbye before walking into the classroom, at the professor's demand.
"Brontë."
Caroline exhaled deeply at Klaus's greeting, wondering how he so quickly got rid of his girl and made it over to the her within a second. She sighed before looking up at the vampire leaning casually against the desk they now shared.
Her face colored with impatience and annoyance.
Klaus's shoulders lifted. "What? You said no more pet names, never said anything about novelists." He innocently pointed out, knowing the comment would get under her skin.
If an automatic detention wasn't guaranteed, she'd literally light him on fire.
Caroline decided to stay silent and not feed into the reaction he clearly craved.
Klaus smirked but conceded sitting next to her when the Professor began to speak.
"Good afternoon class. Today is your first of only three days I'm allowing you to work on your project together in class, the rest will have to be on your own time so use it wisely." She informed pacing the room. "So, if you're not already sitting with your partner I suggest you do so now. Get to it!" Clapping her hands together.
Everyone was already sitting with their assigned partners and the classroom immediately erupted in shared ideas and where the next party would be tonight.
She looked over at Klaus who was skimming through the textbook confusedly. All the spells were in Latin so she doubted he understood what any of it said.
"Can't read?" Caroline teased with faux concern.
"Actually I'm fluent in Latin, many languages actually since I was a boy." Klaus bragged still skimming and smiling, knowing Caroline's pride was deflating. "But I'm no expert in witch shenanigans."
"I care?" Caroline mumbled.
Klaus groaned slamming the textbook and throwing it on the desk in frustration.
If this was anyone else it would actually be adorable.
"So, what spell should we create?" He asked.
"How about this, I do the spell part and you make the poster?" Caroline proposed instead.
She was a fully capable witch and would rather have a guarantee that she'll receive an 'A' instead of feeding how Klaus would mess it up. It was a no brainer.
Klaus twisted his mouth. "Given that this assignment affects us both, I'd like to also have a say in what happens."
"Why? Because it affects us both I'll make sure not to mess it up. You have the full advantage of having a witch for a partner who can do half the work that you don't need to worry about. What's the harm?" Caroline argued.
Klaus squinted. "Contrary to your belief, I actually want to learn something. Not everyone wants things handed to them."
She scoffed. "Says the rich boy. That silver spoon in your mouth must be such a drag."
"Ah yes, the riches that I was born into but never asked for nor care about. Maybe you should stop making assumptions about things you know nothing about." Klaus growled.
"You mean like all the assumptions you make about me?" Caroline fired back before writing down a few notes in her notebook.
Klaus licked his lips and pressed them together then sighed.
This back and forth feud between them would be more enjoyable if he didn't literally have to team up with her for a couple of weeks. He was stressed enough from his other classes and personal matters, Caroline Forbes was not going to be added to that list.
He turned in his chair to face her, swallowing his pride before speaking.
"Caroline let's just start over, alright?" Klaus suggested.
The witch stared at him like he just grew a third head.
"Start over?"
He simply nodded.
"And what does that entail, exactly?" She inquired.
Klaus sighed. "Look, I enjoy our battle of dominance as much as the next but we're going to be partners for the next couple of weeks and, I don't know about you but I'd like for us to end it on a high. From both our efforts."
Of all the years she's known him and all the confrontations they've experienced together, this one was his most mature.
The tip of Caroline's tongue teased her top lip and foot tapping impatiently as she considered his peace treaty.
"Start over and what, be friends?"
"I never said that, but who knows." He shrugged.
Being friends with Klaus was off the table, why would he even consider, but having a fresh start with him sounded doable.
They were going to be each other's backbone for the next couple of weeks with this partnership and for the sake of all, needed to get along. None of this negated how she felt about him for the monster that he is but she Caroline felt she was mature enough for this one request.
"Well I assure you that won't happen." She claimed.
A small smile twitched the corners of his lips.
"But..." She continued. "I guess I'm willing to start over, for the sake of the project of course." She clarified.
"Of course." Klaus concurred.
"I run a tight ship which means I expect your full cooperation and assistance, even if that means we have to stay after class." Caroline added.
The vampire grinned. "Couldn't imagine you wanting it any differently."
Letting out a soft sigh, she turned in her chair face him. Their eyes meeting intensely as usual but with less malicious intent and more of respect.
Klaus's stare lingered on her sparkly blue eyes like he was examining her every thought from eye contact alone. His attention stayed a little while longer before looking down at the hand abruptly put out in front of him to shake.
He raised one curious eyebrow and looking back up at her.
"Hi, I'm Caroline." The blonde formally introduced herself.
Klaus couldn't see how badly she was clinging onto her strength and taming her pride by agreeing to this. Never had she heard of witches and vampires ever calling a truce, not from any of the studies she's read or the family stories she grew up with.
Vampires were not allies.
He wanted to laugh at how her re-introducing herself to him now was more respectful and calm than the first time they met freshman year.
Klaus tongue traced his bottom lip carefully. "I'm Klaus. Nice to meet you Caroline." He nodded then grabbed her hand, capturing it in a stronghold.
A bolt of electricity ran through Caroline's body violently, a subconscious gasp escaping her pink lips.
This was the first time they've ever directly touched each other and the affect more dramatic than anticipated. His palm calloused, cold but she felt nothing but abrupt heat. She was always told you could tell a lot about a person based on a single handshake. Klaus's was strong but not aggressive, more firm and assertive.
She hoped he didn't catch onto her reaction and given the fact his stare never faltered from hers convince her he didn't.
Caroline cleared her throat, shaking his hand finally and dropping it before turning back into her seat.
A grin teased Klaus's lips at her scattered response but he decided not to pester her about it and turned in his seat instead.
Caroline wasn't kidding when she said they would likely stay after class discussing their project. They at least settled on the type of spell they would create, a truth serum. It wouldn't have taken as long if they didn't make choosing a spell a chore. Klaus was persistent on an aphrodisiac while Caroline wanted a love spell.
Their bickering lasted for approximately 15 minutes before finally reaching a conclusion they both could agree with.
Professor Sommers allowed them to stay after class and lock up when they were finished, likely more impressed they were actually working instead of fighting.
Klaus was leaning back in his chair sketching a design for their poster while Caroline sat on top of the desk creating a formula.
His pencil continued to stroke the paper even as he snuck glances at the blonde witch, fixated on her leg anxiously bouncing and her teeth gnawing at the pencil between her fingers determinedly.
Despite Caroline being a pain in his ass the past few years, she was an undeniable beauty. If anything her being so beautiful worsened the annoyance. Her big bubbly golden blonde curls shaped her face nicely and defined her sparkly blue eyes perfectly. Klaus had caught himself staring at her so many times he began noticing the little things, like the faint shade of grey of her iris that made her eyes seem darker from afar. The vein in her forehead that slithered out whenever she's concentrating on perfecting a new spell in the courtyard, shallow breaths coaxed from her lips when stretching before cheer practice and the modest pink in her cheeks when receiving compliments.
And she received a lot of compliments.
Despite the annoying tendencies, Caroline was fascinating to him.
There was something about her that interested Klaus, like maybe she wasn't who she appeared to be. Maybe there was a side of her she didn't want everyone else to see. As if the happy-go-lucky Caroline Forbes with the seemingly perfect life and everything figured out was all a facade, one he was determined to unravel.
He scanned lower, taking note of her reasonably short denim sweetheart neckline dress that slightly rode up her thigh from her seating position. Legs for days, fair-skin and toned. Those damn golden curls all pulled to one side, exposing the bareness of her tempting neck to his hungry view. Her studded pearl earrings to demonstrate her class but the diamond back for extra flare.
Klaus never took the time to look at Caroline, really look at her. Admire her.
To view her in different lenses, as more than his enemy. Now she was his classmate and class partner and that was as unsettling as it was exciting.
Suddenly her leg stopped bouncing and her biting teeth ceased as she turned her head to see Klaus staring at her like she was a foreign object.
Her eyebrows furrowed popping the pencil out her mouth. "What?"
"Nothing." Klaus answered with his index finger rubbing his bottom lip invitingly now sitting up in his chair.
The witch twisted her mouth, tapping her pencil on her notebook fixedly before hopping off the desk and placing her utensils down.
"Can I ask you something?" She abruptly asked, and Klaus nodded in approval. "Why are you always looking at me? I've only just noticed it now but has it been going on for longer?"
Klaus's eyes narrowed and head slightly tilted.
His tongue glided over his lips slowly, briefly distracting Caroline's focus.
"I already told you."
"Right, I 'intrigue' you." She mocked. "You have to know how creepy it is. Is that like a vampire thing?"
Klaus smirked. "No it's not a vampire thing. And it's the truth, you do."
Caroline stood with her arms across her chest with wonder about more he had to say.
"My intentions aren't to be a 'creep', as you so eloquently put it, but last I checked curiosity wasn't a bad thing. You're a witch and I'm a vampire. We come from different cultures and I have no idea how yours functions, I'm interested. Can you blame me?" His eyebrows quirked.
"Yes." She spat.
He shook his head with a light chuckled and a sigh. "Well I've always been a rather curious person, and since we don't exactly hang around the same circles or converse with each other I can only base my theories from afar." He genuinely reasoned.
The blonde listened tentatively at his explanation, not expecting it to be so thorough and honest.
She had her own curiosities about him herself, not that she'd ever give him the satisfaction of knowing that. Klaus was he first had only vampire she'd interacted with besides the ones she was forced to work with in her committees. Nothing about them made sense.
Feeling brave, she decided to press him more.
"Yet you never said anything..."
He snorted. "As if you'd ever give me the chance. We wouldn't even be having this conversation right now if it weren't for this class." Klaus said softly making Caroline relax more.
"Up until today we were at each other's throats, me threatening to rip your throat out and you crushing my brain into mush."
"I guess I am pretty amazing." She claimed smugly but lightheartedly, amusing Klaus.
She suddenly felt more at ease talking with him.
Fidgeting with the hem of her dress and bottom lip between her teeth, she pressed further. "So, how long have you been, curious?" Her inquiry threw him off if his wide eyes and evident gulp wasn't proof enough.
He seemed hesitant and a bit embarrassed even when not saying anything, making Caroline feel less smug at the realization of her question. Underestimating how vulnerable
The moment cut off when Klaus's phone crazily vibrated beside her, and being the nosy person she is, Caroline couldn't help but lean forward sneaking a peek at the screen.
Klaus grabbed the cellular device hurriedly from the desk and ignored the call only furthering Caroline's suspicions.
"How's that nifty formula coming along?" Quickly changing the subject.
Caroline brushed off it off and decided to drop her previous question, for now.
"Not too bad. The ingredients won't be hard to get either. I have the majority of them in my room."
"Of course you do." Playfully rolling his eyes.
"I am a witch, Klaus." She snarled.
He put his hands up. "All jokes sweetheart, lighten up. You just can't help but be defensive with me, can you?" Klaus accused now standing up.
Caroline snorted. "I am not defensive. You're just annoying."
He lightly chuckled. "So much for that fresh start of ours, hmm?" Klaus said crossing his arms and leaning against the desk.
"Force of habit." She teased back.
Klaus was prepared to respond until his phone starting going off again with text messages this time.
The curiosity was eating away at Caroline and his expression was unreadable.
His phone finally stopped buzzing like a bee and Klaus's relief spread throughout his body to his face.
"You don't have to keep ignoring that." Caroline broke the brief but awkward silence.
"Now why would I care about my phone when I'm having such fruitful conversations with you?" He teased with a wide grin.
Caroline rolled her eyes at his blatant sarcasm which brought an amused smile to his face.
She bit down on her lip apprehensively her eyes shifting back and forth to him. "So, is she your girlfriend?"
Klaus narrowed his eyes and eyebrows lowered in confusion. "Who?"
She gave him a knowing face. "You know who. Your redheaded pet."
His face lit up in interest and amusement at Caroline's petty remark towards Aurora.
"Ah, of course. I wasn't aware you two were familiar."
"We're not but it's kinda hard to forget walking in on two half naked people spread out on a bed together." She muttered disgustingly.
"A memory that I'll always cherish." He teased placing a hand over his heart.
Caroline lip curled disapprovingly and Klaus smirked.
"However I find your observation quite interesting. What makes you think she's my girlfriend, Caroline?" He asked.
"Well I don't know, maybe catching you in a compromising position was the starter. Not to mention she's literally all over you whenever I see you together, but you don't exactly turn her away especially when your tongue is down her throat." Caroline mumbled the last part under her breath still writing down notes. "Oh and don't think I haven't noticed she's the one who's been blowing up your phone this whole time."
"So you have been watching me." Klaus said smugly.
Though he said it in a joking manner, Klaus was beginning to believe this sudden sense of intrigue with the witch wasn't as one sided as suspected.
Caroline scoffed and stuttered a few words then pressing her lips in a line realizing what she just said, and how she said it. Klaus's smug expression caused pure embarrassment to appear on her face.
No, she was definitely not watching Klaus out of enjoyment but more because she didn't unseated him and he wasn't the easiest person to read. Though there was also apart of her that was as intrigued by him as he was of her—not that she'd ever admit that to him. But now his already big head grew ten sizes.
- Way to go Caroline.
She wasn't sure why she should feel embarrassed for watching him when he's made a habit of doing the same to her and was shameless about it.
Her scoff light and timid. "Keep dreaming. I didn't know being observant was a crime."
Klaus shrugged. "I don't know love, sounds to me that you might be a bit jealous." Klaus suspected with a charming gaze.
Caroline nearly choked on her own tongue from his absurd accusation.
- Wha- what! How dare he!
"Seriously? How did one blatant observation become code for 'I want you'?!" Her voice shaky and filled exclamation marks. "And don't call me love!"
This guy's head was too big for his own body.
Klaus's eyebrow lifted amusingly.
"Besides, I have a boyfriend and you're not my type." She added.
The vampire swallowed and laughing expression gradually fell. "I've truly never met a more conceited person. I was joking, deflate your ego a bit princess. You don't exactly give me morning wood either."
Her blush evident and eyes widened in embarrassment and offense, not that she cared about Klaus being attracted to her but his bluntness nonetheless offensive.
"And yes, I'm very much aware of the royal couple of Whitmore." Klaus said mockingly.
"Please don't call us that." She pleaded.
Caroline rolled her eyes with a faint 'whatever' before focusing back on her paper.
Klaus's licked his lips again picking up his pencil and attempt to resume his sketch.
His focus didn't last.
"But to answer the question that I'm sure has been eating at you for days, no Aurora is not my girlfriend." He pointed out.
"Oh wow! So she does have a name." Caroline said sarcastically, expanding Klaus's grin.
"I don't have girlfriends. I have...friends." Klaus explained.
That sounded more like Klaus. It was hard for her to imagine him of all people having a girlfriend or being the relationship type at all.
Caroline discreetly cleared her throat.
"You must make quite a lot of friends."
An unwelcome sting of offense hit his chest hearing the clear negative connotation in her tone.
"I guess you could say that." He muttered clicking his tongue against his teeth. Eyes wandered away from the task on hand and onto the blonde witch determined to not make eye contact.
"Does that bother you?" Klaus genuinely inquired.
She whipped her head up expecting his signature smug face but instead his expression was patient and calm as he waited for her response. His eyebrows furrowed and attention fully on her, it was as intimidating as ever but also innocent. Caroline didn't know how to perceive it.
"Wh-why would your preferences bother me?" She mentally slapped herself for the unintentional stutter in her voice but thankfully Klaus didn't catch onto it.
The vampire shrugged. "Some people aren't comfortable when others say they aren't the committed type. They automatically make a judgments about their lives without knowing them at all. I guess you'd never know with you living a fairytale marriage with Lockwood and all."
Caroline tensed.
"How is that by the way, being with a werewolf?" He genuinely asked. "I've done a lot in my days but that's a task I never took on. Too much fur, I would imagine, but I'm sure it's quite the experience."
She threw him a look of disgust then subtly gulped. This wasn't the first time she's talked about her relationship or personal life with someone yet her palms were sweating profusely.
Because Klaus Mikaelson wasn't just someone.
Talking to him about her relationship was not on her list for the day.
"We're not married, and it's fine." Her answer short and cold.
"Really? Does that settle well with your clan? Isn't it against witches code to date outside of your own? No warlocks captured your attention?" He smirked teasingly.
She gave him a look of annoyance and it only egged him on.
Caroline brushed it off with a huff. "One, there aren't that many warlocks here and the few we have barely hit puberty and cant even pull a spell out their ass." She spat.
Klaus's eyes widened amusingly.
"Two, it's called a coven not a clan." She sassily informed. "And three, yes it's preferred we stay with our own but it's not the end of the world to be with a werewolf, now if a witch dated a vampire it'd be a different story." The witch concluded.
Klaus narrowed his eyes. "Hmm, because that'd totally be the end of the world."
"Yup." She squinted with a dramatic pop sound at the end of the word.
He shook his head , peeking over at her work area and tilting his head while reading the ingredients she wrote down.
His eyebrow quirked and eyes squinted. "Two frog heads huh?"
"Could you not?!" Covering the paper with her small hands. "Look at your own paper!"
Klaus chuckled. "I just feel we're going to need a little more than amphibians for this to work. What happened to the other list you made?"
"I threw it away because it was terrible." She argued.
"And somehow this is better?" He questioned with curled lips pointing at her work.
Caroline could admit her new angle for the project wasn't the best and she wanted to laugh herself but she didn't need him of all people correcting her on her skills.
Even if he had a point.
"Well you didn't let me finish." She cheekily replied with a subtle smile to match that she wasn't aware of.
The heat of their exchanging glares transitioned the light-hearted confrontation into an intense state of tension. Capturing each other in another trap but the energy was different, more intimate and heated. Caroline hadn't realized how close their faces were to each other. They stood on opposite sides of the desk leaning forward and fingertips inches from touching one another's on the wooden surface.
Both their lips parted and plump. Breaths a combination of warm and cold. Suddenly the room felt smaller and 100 degrees hotter. Of all the other times, they were literally the only two in the room.
Klaus took note of that modest pink blush that appeared on her cheeks graciously and adorably. The blush that deepened into a shade of red whenever their gazes settled on each other for too long.
The shade only he could put on her face.
Caroline could feel her heart rate climbing and pulse jumping. Her palms sweating and body stiffening, wondering why they were still engrossed in one another. But today was different for them, from the beginning of class to now was the most cordial they've ever been and now it was affecting other aspects of...whatever they were.
- No, no we are definitely not friends.
This was the irritating thing about acknowledging Klaus's existence this semester, she had no idea what they were to each other anymore. There was something about him that kept pulling her in and she hated it as much as wanted to meet it.
She caught her eyes flicker from his down to his full raspberry colored lips then quickly back up to his eyes when a knowing smirk stretched his face.
"Caroline?"
A woman's voice snapped them out of their haze of fire and confusion.
The witch quickly stood up straight and turned around to face the voice, now wishing she hadn't.
"Mom? What are you doing here?" She asked breathlessly, stepping forward and trying to shake away her obviously flushed appearance.
Caroline couldn't see herself but she was sure she looked like a bright tomato with a messy blonde wig.
"I told you I'd be stopping by this week and when I went to your room you weren't there." Her mother began. "Bonnie told me you were still in class working on an assignment, yes?"
The blonde nodded frantically. "Uh, yeah. Umm, Professor Sommers assigned us a group project so we were just working on some of it." She explained hesitantly.
"Yes, I can see that." She looked past her daughter and over to the vampire who was standing idly by the desk waiting for the next move.
Her mother eyed Klaus up and down carefully and curiously.
Caroline averted her eyes to Klaus whose hands were tucked right in his pockets and lips pressed into a line like he was across to talk.
Klaus seemed, nervous. Then again everyone was intimidated by Caroline's mom even if they've met her before. Liz Forbes was one of Whitmore's finest which was why Caroline was determined to fill those big shoes until the end.
Her short blonde hair brushed nicely and light grey business suit with black pumps was the perfect fit. All her jewelry made of real pearls, emphasizing her class. Makeup modest but effective and features sharp.
Beautiful, stern and intimidating.
The two students exchanged looks to determine how to go about their, yet another, awkward moment. Liz Forbes taught Caroline everything she knew, including her hatred for vampires.
How would she feel knowing her daughter had to work with the enemy now?
"Uh mom, this is Klaus-"
"Mikaelson." Liz finished the sentence with a subtle nod.
Klaus's eyebrows curled together confusedly, as did Caroline's.
"You know me?" He asked curiously.
"I know of you. I know your family. We are two of the founding families of this school after all." She proudly acknowledged. "Last I saw you was Caroline's freshman orientation, seems like a lifetime ago. You haven't aged a day."
- Was that supposed to be a joke?
"Your parents and I attended this school together when we were your age. Your mother was a very umm, different vampire." Her tone snooty and judgmental making Klaus cringe.
"Too curious for her own good so I guess it's a good thing your father came along to assist in keeping her balanced." Ms. Forbes said eerily, like there was a deeper explanation behind her words.
An obvious story no one knew about.
Klaus tensed at the mention of his estranged parents and the subtle insult towards his own mother. His first instinct to defend but he didn't want anyone knowing his family issues; not Caroline and let alone her mother.
How did they never put the pieces together that their parents knew each other, as if it wasn't obvious? But why did it seem like she knew more than she was letting on?
It sparked Klaus's interest.
He simply nodded. "Small world."
"Clearly." She replied, giving him a once over a final time before focusing back on her daughter.
"I didn't realize you two had classes together, and partners?"
"General education course." Caroline explained.
Her eyes lit up. "Of course."
Caroline tucked her hair behind her ears. "Do you want to talk outside-"
"No need." Liz put her hand up. "I just wanted to check on you and see how the new building in the witchery wing was coming along but you're clearly occupied. I'll call you later tonight when you're more, available."
The glint in her eye uneased Klaus.
He tried to get a read on the older witch but was failing miserably. There was something off about her, besides the fact that she was a witch and though that was her mother, he wondered if Caroline could sense it too.
The blonde nodded to her mother who looked like nose was permanently in the air.
"It was nice meeting you, Ms. Forbes." Klaus volunteered to conclude this awkward visit as quickly as possible.
Caroline's sudden calm demeanor and exhale indicated a silent 'thank you' to the vampire.
"Oh please, call me Liz." She corrected with a soft smile. "And likewise, Niklaus. Maybe we'll see each other again soon."
Caroline, and Klaus, thrown off by the use of his full first name but didn't have time to process it as Liz approached her daughter for a small hug and kisses on both cheeks.
And Klaus thought his family was prissy and posh.
She waved them both off and exited the classroom in a classy manner. Caroline let out a breath she'd been holding since her mother walked in, turning around to face the boy still watching the door.
"You're mother's seems like a treat." He teased finally looking back at the curly haired blonde.
"Only on her good days." She joked fidgeting with her fingers.
They both softly smiled at each other but Caroline quickly looked away when she realized what she was doing.
Her and Klaus were nothing more than classmates now, even if talking to him was easier than she anticipated. She felt she was suffocating herself with denial. They were becoming too comfortable too fast around each other, it was blinding her from the reality of them hating each other.
The one thing they could agree on.
Straightening her clothes frantically, Caroline began packing up her things hurriedly.
"Well I think we got a lot done so that should be enough for today. You can go now." Her statement sounded more like an order.
Klaus watched as she gathered her utensils as if her life depended on it, determined to leave as soon as possible. But Klaus had other plans in mind.
"Go out with me tonight."
Caroline's actions ceased as she processed his bold request.
- Did he really just ask me that?
She wasn't sure if she heard him correctly, or why he thought it'd be okay to ask her something so absurd.
"Umm, no?" Her reply more of a question. "I know you're memory isn't that bad to forget I have a boyfriend."
He rolled his eyes. "Bloody hell, I'm not asking for your hand in marriage. With it being our first day as partners we accomplished a lot and were working hard without killing each other, I think we deserve a reward don't you?" Klaus explained with a grin. "Besides, I'm famished and I know you are too because your stomach has been growling like a bear for the past 30 minutes."
Caroline covered her stomach shamefully.
"And you said you don't understand how I can be intrigued by you when I know nothing about you, right? Let's change that."
She was left speechless and stunned.
"Well how about the fact that we're sworn enemies?" She mentioned.
"Says who?" Klaus shrugged. "A bunch of old pasty vampires and witches who made up all these so-called rules centuries ago?"
- What is wrong with him?
It was so much easier when they were on the same page and shared a mutual distaste for each other.
Caroline pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed. "Klaus..."
"Look, we've endured this wretched cafeteria food for years. Across the street has the best tacos in town, you won't ever want to come back here." He promised.
Caroline's mouth watered at the thought.
- How did he know I love tacos?
The temptation becoming stronger by the second, but...but...he's Klaus.
"You do realize leaving campus for any reason without approval is an automatic suspension right?" She reasoned.
The vampire groaned loudly. "Jesus Christ, live a little Forbes!" Throwing his hands up. "Do something you won't be able to tell anyone afterwards. Something that's just for you. Come on, get to know me. I dare you." His smirk taunting and enduring.
He wanted to shake her when she still appeared indecisive.
"If you're lucky, I might tell you some things about me that no one else knows." The vampire bargained.
Caroline softly laughed. "Wow you're really desperate, aren't you?"
"I'm known to be quite persistent." He cheekily claimed.
She nibbled on her bottom lip lightly, feeling the inner tug-o-war battle over his proposition playing out in her head. The fact that she was even contemplating it was bad enough. Imagine, not only breaking the rules but breaking the rules to enjoy an evening meal with someone she isn't even supposed to befriend. How unethical it would be, and hypocritical.
How would people react to seeing the two leaders of the most powerful factions in the school, and community, hanging out together like buddies? How would that affect their credibility and the function of the cycle everyone knew and abided by?
Looking into his pleading blue eyes she could see his genuineness, more than ever that maybe he was being honest with her for the first time, but they couldn't; she couldn't. It wasn't just a bad idea, it would be a colossal mistake. Affiliating with any vampire would be a betrayal to her coven, family and all the witches who've been manipulated by vampires and lost their lives because of it. Caroline refused to ever become a victim of that.
One session of them being cordial towards each other doesn't make up for what's been done, or change what he is.
Sorrowfully, Caroline shook her head. "Klaus, we can't. We're not friends remember?" She said dryly, pressing her books tightly against her chest and feeling guilty at his obviously disappointed reaction.
Clearly some hesitation in her response but was overpowered by loyalty, loyalty he didn't possess nor deserve.
Klaus's face fell with each step she made exiting the room before he could persuade her to change her mind.
Caroline exhaled heavily with her back towards him as she walked out the classroom with minor regret.
She was completely caught off guard by his invitation, and confused why he thought it was inappropriate. Maybe she was being a bit dramatic but just because Klaus was a fan of rule breaking didn't mean she was, even if she was slightly tempted.
Walking past the hallway towards the dormitories, Caroline's forehead frowned in confusion when she spotted her mother standing by the gates.
"Mom? I thought you said you were leaving. Have you been waiting on me this whole time?" She asked approaching her mother who was husky typing something into her phone.
Liz held an index finger up, indicating she'd be done with her text in a moment.
Caroline rocked back against her heels with no choice but to patiently wait.
"I'm just waiting for my car." She explained sending a last text before placing into her purse. "So your partners with a vampire, a Mikaelson? You'll be spending a lot of time together, I'm sure."
Caroline furrowed her eyebrows but nodded. "I didn't exactly have a choice in the matter. Professor Sommers is insistent on wanting us all to get along and sing Kumbaya together in circle." Rolling her eyes.
Liz smirked.
"We're not friends or anything other than partners who were forced to be together." She reassured.
A wicked smile played on her mother's lips, her expression dark and plotting that even made Caroline shiver.
"Hate, huh?"
The blonde gulped, still completely puzzled by her mom's implications.
"You're my daughter, Caroline. You never have to remind me where your loyalties lie."
She took a step forward and tilted her head, dusting off invisible specks from Caroline's bare shoulders and flipping her curls forward so it flowed in front of her. Primping her like a doll to put on display.
Caroline hated that.
Liz dusted her hands. "I was in a rush but I'm actually glad I saw you before I left."
"What's wrong?" Caroline asked.
Liz shook her head. "Nothing is wrong, actually everything couldn't be more right." She smiled again. "I just thought of an idea. A solution to a problem we've had for a long time."
Klaus is being his same ole persistent self: wanting to get to know Caroline (more for his sake than hers cuz she intrigues him to no end) but Caroline isn't buying it; her prejudices are stronger than his clearly.
Her inability to see him as more than a vampire is frustrating to both of them. Will she eventually come around?
So now you've been introduced to Liz, and her presence in the story definitely changes the game. She clearly knows a lot more than most might think. Do you think she has sinister intentions?
I'm excited to write how everything begins to unfold and I cant wait to share it with you loyal readers!
REVIEWS ARE APPRECIATED!
I'm excited for this all to unfold and I hope you all are too.