Old Love
Disclaimer: Don't own anything, title inspired by Eric Clapton's song of the same name.
Rating: M
Spoiler: 4.24
A/N: Dear my very patient readers. This month has been absolutely crazy for me and thus this chapter sat in my inbox ready to go for much longer than I planned. My apologies but on the upside, it's pretty lengthy and sets up the stage for the remaining two chapters of the story, which I hope you will enjoy. Thank you again to my lovely editor, Cathy, and to all of you who have been giving me such marvelous feedback. I hope I don't disappoint!
xxx
"It's often just enough to be with someone. I don't need to touch them. Not even talk. A feeling passes between you both. You're not alone."
― Marilyn Monroe (American icon)
xxx
March 2082
Kislovodsk
When Matt's youngest grandchild actually goes missing, Caroline is somewhere in the Caucasus mountain range in western Russia, hiking towards Mount Elbrus.
This isn't her first time in the region. She's done some variation of this hike before, but this route was just recently mapped out with the help of new technology and Caroline couldn't resist the opportunity to revisit one of her favorite places in Eastern Europe.
In a world that is constantly evolving, nature is one of the precious few reminders that some aspects of the universe are stable, unchanging, and Caroline finds comfort in that. There is still beauty in the mundane, and she has learned that decades ago when she first watched the sun rise over Mount Elbrus.
It still takes her breath away.
This specific expedition is run by an old, experienced hiker who ironically has a prejudice against technology. Between the seven of them, they have one satellite radio for emergencies and a small compass that their leader keeps on himself at all times.
It's late March but still bitterly cold, so the group is small, only the true enthusiasts. Caroline gets to know every single one of them, down to their scent and the distinct rhythm of their individual heartbeats.
That's how she realizes they have company and quickly excuses herself from the temporary campsite to go investigate. The further away she walks, the stronger this other, foreign scent becomes, until it's all around her. A chill runs down her spine when she feels a presence behind her.
The beast is magnificent, blazing yellow eyes offset by its thick brown coat and the undisturbed dark of the night. Caroline braces for a fight, fangs extended when the wolf howls.
It's a beautiful, majestic sound but some of her adrenaline subsides as she detects the element of youth and submission in the howl. Upon further examination, Caroline realizes this wolf is merely a pup; by her estimation probably turned less than a year ago.
She immediately retracts her fangs.
The wolf's pack is no doubt nearby but this one she can take even without transforming. She's nearly a hundred years old, no match for the baby wolf. Strangely, her opponent seems to agree. With one more look in her direction, the creature turns around and disappears into the night.
Maybe a few decades ago, Caroline wouldn't have thought too much about such a weird occurrence, but a century of experiencing the best and worst of the supernatural (and humanity) does not afford her such a luxury.
And she's right to be cautious, because as she turns around to head back to the campsite, already forming a plan on how to persuade the stubborn instructor to move in case the wolf comes back with the rest of the pack, she realizes she isn't alone.
Her breath catches ever so slightly, heart thudding against her rib cage as nostalgia washes over.
"Tyler." She murmurs his name in wonder, pleased that she is still capable of surprise.
"Hey Care," He greets her with a smile but it doesn't quite reach his eyes. Caroline immediately picks up on the urgency in his voice and doubt settles in her gut.
"What's wrong?" She asks, closing the space between them naturally, as though it hasn't been years since she last saw him.
She supposes it's like that with family.
"I'll explain everything, but we need to get out of here."
Normally, she would put up a fight, demand answers, but she can see the turmoil brewing in his gaze. There's a trace of exhaustion there as well and she wonders how long he's been tracking her.
"Okay," she nods, "I'll just grab my gear."
"No time," Tyler shakes his head, falling into step with her as she retraces her route back to the campsite.
At this, she stops and looks at him, fear blooming in her chest as she realizes how long it's been since she's been in touch with anyone at all, let alone her inner circle.
Tyler visibly hesitates.
Caroline swallows.
"Just tell me, Tyler."
And he obliges, telling her that Eliot Donovan disappeared from his dorm at Whitmore College a little less than a week prior. Caroline doesn't even fight the guilt. She lets it wash over her before grabbing Tyler by the arm and determinedly heading back to the campsite.
"Let's get out of here."
xxx
Aside from dropping this bombshell on her, Tyler also informs her that the decades long war in New Orleans has reached a conclusion favorable to the Original family. He casually drops this into their conversation as they are being driven to the nearest airport by someone from his pack.
Caroline betrays nothing of her momentary relief.
Instead, she gives him a small smile and turns her gaze to the window. The sun rising in the distance over the mountain range still has the same affect it had on her the first time she witnessed it. She's glad her last memory of this region is so calming, because she knows there are trying times ahead.
Tyler continues to talk, if only to fill the silence, but she tunes him out, plan already developing after all the details he has shared about Eliot's disappearance.
The 20-year-old was doing an extensive research project on the supernatural history in Virginia, and the running theory Tyler has is that Eliot was too close to the truth and someone with a reason to protect the supernatural world attempted to subdue him.
"The only issue with that is, we have no idea who it could be or who we can trust. The witches have always kept a healthy interest in concealing their existence from humans; same with vampires and werewolves." Tyler explains, signaling to Caroline that he's had quite a bit of time to think about this.
They all have...Elena, Stefan, even Damon...while she ignorantly roamed the highest peaks in the world looking for some peace and quiet. Her fists curl subtly at her own negligence. She should have been there.
"What about Bonnie? Has she been able to help?" Caroline asks, still refusing to look at Tyler; terrified she won't be able to hide her inner turmoil.
There's a beat of silence and she braces herself for the inevitably bad news.
"Well, you know she cut off communication with Jeremy after he got married...and Matt has been trying to communicate with her, but he's too weak now and-..."
His voice falters and Caroline grips his hand, squeezing tightly. There's no need to force Tyler into addressing the issue of Matt's mortality.
Now is not the time for that. Now is the time to think, plan, and execute, because the least they can do for Matt in his old age is make sure his grandson is safe and sound.
Then she'll kick the munchkin's ass for knowingly delving into such a dangerous world.
The urgency of it all, knowing how important this is to Matt, leaves her with a sense of clarity that only living having lived for close to a century can provide. She's no longer the same Caroline who fought on impulse, driven by emotion.
That doesn't mean there isn't a small flicker of excitement that spreads warmth through her belly as a plan takes shape.
"We need a witch we can trust to perform a locator spell and I know just how to find one."
Tyler seems to understand where her thoughts are headed and immediately shakes his head.
"No, Care. Absolutely not. I'm not letting you go there, not after what he did to you in Berlin; it's too dangerous."
It's been so long since Berlin, so much has happened since then, an entire lifetime of events, but Caroline can't help the affection seeping in from Tyler's somewhat misplaced protectiveness.
It's been quite a while since someone cared so much about her safety, so she covers his hand with hers again, rubbing gently this time.
"It's sweet that you're concerned for me, Tyler, but your worry is better directed to someone else, like your lovely wife. How's she doing anyway?"
The way Tyler's entire demeanor changes at the mention of his wife alights Caroline's heart with hope. For a long time, she worried that her ex-boyfriend would spend his eternity alone: a transient mentor to various packs all over the world while he ran from his demons.
Then, a few decades back, he met a young wolf in one of his treks in the Rockies and suddenly, he didn't need to run anymore; had found the place where he belongs.
Caroline knows that feeling all too well...except unlike Tyler, she's running from it, convincing herself that she doesn't need that, need him. Apparently, fate has other plans.
"Emilia is great but don't change the subject. There's no way you're going to New Orleans, Caroline. At least not alone."
She's always appreciated Tyler's ability to cut through the bullshit, but in the present, it's beginning to irritate her. They both know it's the right thing to do, Tyler just can't reconcile them needing the Originals' help with his hatred of the Big Bad.
"Oh, but that's precisely why I am going, Tyler...alone."
Tyler doesn't argue further, knows she's made up her mind, but he makes his displeasure evident by turning his gaze to the window. He doesn't remove his hand from hers though and Caroline smiles softly at the back of his head, realizing just how good it is to see him.
Her first love.
A part of her yearns to coax a smile out of him again so she tugs at his hand, forcing him to look back at her.
"Don't worry, Ty, seriously. Knowing the Mikaelsons, now that they've won this war, they'll probably throw a ball or something and Klaus will be too high on power to think about killing me."
Tyler merely rolls his eyes at this and looks away. Seconds later, Caroline detects the beginnings of a smile.
It's enough to settle her nerves, enough to stave off the anxiety and excitement she feels about her impending destination.
Fate really is a bitter bitch sometimes.
xxx
This is never more apparent to Caroline than when she pulls up to the Mikaelson mansion just outside of New Orleans barely a day later and finds a flurry of activity outside.
"Oh you have got to be kidding me." She mutters to herself, shutting off the engine and getting out of the car.
No one pays attention to her as she crosses the expansive driveway, and the dozen or so heartbeats hammering away in her ears reveal the reason.
Of course, the triumphant siblings would compel a bunch of humans to do the decorating for their grand re-entrance into New Orleans' supernatural society.
It's so predictable, Caroline nearly rolls her eyes, but as soon as she sets foot into the foyer, her throat runs a little dry.
The bright, open space, with its extravagant decorations and the sprawling staircase unwillingly brings her back to another ball, at another Mikaelson mansion. She has to actively fight not to get lost in the past, in the memory tinged with beautiful silk, delicate flutes of champagne, and that smirk...those eyes.
Snapping herself back to the present, Caroline confronts the possibility that this might be a colossally bad idea. Especially now that she realizes that apart from the whole compelling humans to do their bidding thing, she's okay with this celebration, is even a little excited and happy that the Original family was able to triumph over Marcel.
Even if the fight was bloody and full of casualties.
The thought is like a dose of vervain, and she visibly flinches away from the revelation, mostly because she doesn't want to flush out the implications of it. She doesn't have time to wonder what it says about her that she's okay with accepting those means to an end.
She's here for a purpose and must set her own feelings aside for Matt's sake. Shifting gears, Caroline stalks determinedly to the first room off of the foyer, grabbing the first bottle of champagne she sees along with two flutes arranged in an elegant tower.
Then she navigates her way through the multitude of rooms and hallways to the second floor, not once questioning either her destination or his presence at the end of her journey. She knows he's there, that he probably sensed her arrival when she was still a few miles up the road. The thought that he's waiting for her leaves her with a feeling of exhilaration she can't quite describe but knows she must control.
Still, the fervor with which she moves would leave her breathless if she was human and Caroline takes a moment to compose herself before stepping through the threshold of the familiar room.
Her first observation is that the crib is gone, replaced by an empty wooden easel that looks to be a simple placeholder, discarded there so the space doesn't seem empty. Her dead heart clenches, a moment of grief reserved for an unborn child and her mother, neither of whom truly deserved their fate.
It's enough to fully bring her to the present. She will not allow another child to be lost, to be killed for no greater purpose than to hurt and intimidate.
A surge of anger and protectiveness for Matt's family grounds her, clears her mind. She's finally able to look at the lone occupant of the room, who doesn't seem at all disturbed by her presence...or her lack of greeting.
It should irritate her, but it's so typical; everything from the way he focuses on his sketchpad, to his relaxed posture, to the damn necklaces he can't seem to part with.
It's all so familiar, so stable.
Caroline has to acknowledge that she just spent six months hiking through some of the most dangerous terrain in the world, searching for peace and quiet, and in one moment, with his startling sameness, the most dangerous man in the world has given her exactly that.
Regardless of how far she's come, this awareness still irritates her and she shoves it aside by default, not wanting to waste precious minutes delving into her own psyche, especially where Klaus is concerned. It's bound to throw her off kilter and she doesn't have time to piece herself back together.
Eliot doesn't have time.
"So, I believe a congratulations is in order?"
Klaus looks up at her then and his familiar smile, paired with the glint in his eyes, steals unnecessary breath away from her.
"Hello Caroline."
He holds her gaze for as long as she'll let him, penetrating as only he can be. Caroline has to actively ignore his greeting because the warmth she feels is easier to disguise with detachment.
"I have to say, you Mikaelsons have a weird attachment to the 1920s. Why else would you make it the running theme of all your parties?"
Klaus probably sees right through her but plays along, shutting his sketchpad and setting it aside as he stands to his full height. Caroline tries not to be distracted by his proximity as he takes the champagne bottle, but even her impeccable self control is no match for the reaction he elicits from her.
She doesn't understand this effect he has on her, even after all these years, but knows it has the potential to derail her plans, make her lose her head with the merest contact.
"What can I say, love? It was one of the best decades I've lived through, all glitz and glamour. You would have loved it."
"So I've been told." Caroline smirks, tone belying the rush through her veins at his allusion to the past, using almost the same words he did back then to draw her in, to seduce her.
The pop of the champagne cork jolts her, catapulting her yet again to the present and she hands Klaus the two pilfered flutes, hoping the bubbly spirit will ground her somewhat.
"A toast to you and your triumphs then." Caroline suggests, ignoring how seamlessly they interact with one another, as if it hasn't been nearly 20 years since they saw each other last.
"Though I have to say," She continues, if only to fill the silence as Klaus pours two glasses.
"I am a bit insulted that I didn't receive an invitation."
It's meant to be a tease, a light jab at him, something to level their playing field, but the moment he speaks, Caroline knows she's screwed.
"Well considering I don't actually have an address for you, it was a bit challenging to send an invitation. You'll have to forgive me."
He holds her gaze meaningfully, reminding her of the promise of freedom he had given her; a token of his faith in her, trust that she would come find him when she was ready.
Her stomach drops at the possibility that he has mistaken her arrival for permanence. She ignores the yearning that sparks at that thought…at how much she actually wants that.
"But since you are," he interrupts her thoughts gently, voice dropping to a near whisper, "why don't you stay? After all, it would be quite unbecoming of you to leave the new King of New Orleans without a date at his very own inauguration."
His whole being is positively alight with mischief and the pit in her belly grows, not only because the idea of attending this party with him feels so right, but also because the lightness and peace she saw in Sao Paulo has not diminished in the slightest.
The blood of thousands is undoubtedly on his hands but it hasn't darkened his soul, not like before.
And while that fills Caroline with an immeasurable amount of pride...and desire, she can't hide the dread rising within her simultaneously.
She is here for a reason, to help Matt, to protect the children he was able to have. She has to do this before carving out her own happiness. She just hopes the man in front of her shares the same sentiment.
"Actually, Klaus, I need your help."
xxx
It's dusk by the time Caroline finishes explaining everything. They've since moved to the couch, trading the vintage champagne for something a bit stronger.
The fireplace isn't lit, but Caroline still remembers the last time she was in this room.
Stealing a glance at Klaus as he thinks silently, Caroline feels pride sink into her every pore.
This man has been through hell and back since the last time she was here and although she isn't sure what it says about her that she's so unbelievably relieved and proud of his accomplishments, she smiles to herself as she waits.
Her phone vibrates from its place on the coffee table. The display flashing Tyler's number catches Klaus' attention and he turns to her for the first time in what feels like forever. Caroline isn't sure what she expects his reaction to be, but isn't prepared for his indifference as he takes a sip from his glass of blood.
"Are you going to answer that?" He asks, without a hint of jealousy.
She feels like she's in an alternate universe...she figured if anyone could evoke the typical mood swings from Klaus, it would be Tyler. Except here's nothing but calmness there and she can tell that he's amused by her surprise.
"No."
"You should." He suggests, now focused on her.
"Why?" She challenges.
He's acting like he knows something she doesn't and it aggravates her.
"Don't be stubborn, love. Knowing Tyler, he's about ready to call in his cavalry of pups to come rescue you from the Big Bad Wolf and I'd rather not have all the lovely decorations go to waste. Rebekah's wrath would be twice as burdensome to deal with as whatever army Mr. Lockwood plans to unleash to pry you out of danger."
Even with his slight mocking, Caroline can definitely see the logic in his words…and ultimately reaches for her phone. Klaus is right, there's no reason to worry Tyler any more than necessary, especially under the circumstances.
Strangely, he was the only one irritated by her decision to come here on her own and Caroline has to wonder how much of the time that Stefan spent with Klaus during his recovery impacted how the rest of her inner circle now perceives the Original Hybrid.
At least in relation to her.
Once more, Caroline pushes these ruminations aside, typing out a quick message to Tyler before shoving her phone in her pocket so it doesn't create a disturbance again.
"There, now he won't try to "rescue" me as though I'm some victim."
She fixes Klaus with a pointed stare then, intending to throw his words right back at him but the intensity of his gaze, though trained somewhere beyond her, sends an involuntary shiver down her spine.
"You know that's why you and Young Lockwood never worked out."
His words catch her off guard, but also pique her interest. It's been years - decades, really - since she's thought of Tyler in that capacity but the way Klaus sounds so assured and yet not arrogant at all pushes her to ask.
"Why?"
Her voice comes out softer than expected, less annoyed and more curious, as if she's actually interested in knowing his reasoning.
Klaus finally meets her eye then, blue-green orbs boring into her very soul as he leans in closer, fully aware of the effect he's having on her as his breath skirts her cheek. Caroline doesn't back down though; it's never been in her nature to submit.
"He never could quite figure out when you were in need of rescuing and when you needed to fight for yourself."
Then he's looking at her like he's the only one who has in fact figured it out and it irks her in that familiar way that his words used to when she first met him. The thrill returns; the feeling of danger sparking a fire. Her defenses melt away as she sees the same flair reflected in Klaus' face.
Before either of them can do something about it though, (and he looks like he has every intention of doing something Caroline is sure she would enjoy very much) a voice cuts through the tension in the room, tearing her away from temptation.
"As much as I appreciate your fondness for vintage bubbly, Caroline," Rebekah Mikaelson flashes into the room, a perfect mess of blond curls and spiky heels. Grabbing the pilfered Rose Brut off the end table, she takes a healthy swig from the bottle.
"I believe we have a party to host and an annoyingly inquisitive boy to find, so I am going to cut this reunion short, at least until we can get you into something a bit more...appropriate." She scrunches up her nose as she takes in Caroline's casual outfit.
The latter would smile if she wasn't still winded from the Original's unexpected arrival.
Then Rebekah's words finally hit her and Caroline frowns, looking between the two siblings with mild irritation.
"If you think I'm staying for this "party," you are mistaken. I don't have time, Eliot doesn't-..."
"Eliot needs a witch, love, a very powerful, unbiased witch that owes me a favor." Klaus interrupts her and she's almost ready to fight him again, but his gentleness and obvious understanding deters her.
"It'll take me at least a night to track her down, but it will be worth it, I assure you." He adds. The accompanying flicker of vulnerability, paired with the way he carefully places his hand atop her knee, leaves her undead heart beating at an unnatural rate.
Klaus actually cares about this, cares about them succeeding...and while the revelation on its own is pretty damn shocking, Caroline diverts her attention to Rebekah. The latter's impatience is evident, even without her incessant stiletto tapping.
Quickly Caroline realizes the other blonde is somehow invested in this, and so she really has no choice but to agree. One Mikaelson, she can handle…but two and she's outnumbered.
"Fine, I'll go tonight, but on two conditions."
"Anything for you, sweetheart." Klaus quickly cuts in, grin bordering on inappropriate.
Rebekah immediately scoffs at this, which Caroline finds infinitely amusing. Somehow, this typical sibling interaction makes her think that everything will be okay, that they will find a witch who will then find Eliot and they will rescue him.
After all, how can they fail with the Originals on their side?
As faulty as her logic may be, Caroline chooses to be positive in the moment.
"One: as soon as you locate the witch, you let me know. No delays, no denials, no nothing."
"Done." Klaus nods his head, obviously slightly annoyed that she would think he would do that in such a precarious situation, but Caroline pushes on, relying on her instincts.
"And two," She points her finger at him, "no more surprise gifts in the form of lavish ball gowns, I will find something to wear on my own, okay?"
His delight is nearly contagious but Caroline fights to keep her resolve, even when it's so difficult to do. Before Klaus can agree to her terms, however, Rebekah's patience apparently runs out because Caroline suddenly feels herself pulled to her feet by the older vampire.
"Okay, okay. He bloody agrees!" Rebekah exclaims, gripping Caroline tightly by her elbow.
"Besides, everyone knows my closet is way more extravagant than Niklaus'." She calls over her shoulder teasingly and Caroline barely has a moment to throw an apologetic look at Klaus before his sister flashes them out of the room.
xxx
Hours later, Caroline stands alone in one of the bedrooms in Rebekah's quarters, admiring her reflection in the full-length mirror.
The turquoise of the dress brings out the blue of her eyes and makes her skin glow translucent. Though she's done the whole 1920s look before, there's something incredibly alluring about the woman staring back at her and Caroline realizes very quickly that it's been a long time since she's been in touch with her femininity.
A long time since she's thought of herself as someone appealing.
The power of this revelation sends a thrill through her entire body.
"Just like I thought." Rebekah's voice flows smooth like honey from the doorway, "my poor brother won't be able to keep his hands off you."
Caroline doesn't reply to that. Instead, she turns to take in Rebekah as she leans casually against the wall.
The older vampire looks magnificent as always, dark burgundy dress seemingly moving with her as she walks into the room.
"I hope you know I'm coming with you."
For a second, Caroline isn't sure what the other blonde is referring to, but when it hits her, she's slightly speechless and Rebekah takes pity on her.
"Despite what you and the Scooby gang think of me, which is perhaps some of Niklaus' doing, I don't just fall in love with anyone and Matt was once very important to me, if briefly so. Besides it's never a bad thing to have an immortal on your side in these situations."
And Caroline can't argue with that. If anything, Rebekah will be an asset. One who has no alternate agenda and cannot be killed. Seeing the flicker of anguish in the other woman's eye only confirms what Caroline already knows: Rebekah will stop at nothing to find Matt's grandson.
Caroline instantly feels a kinship with the blonde, one she has only ever felt with Elena and Bonnie. She knows it goes beyond just their shared love for the same small town boy.
Somewhere along the way, she and Rebekah became friends, bonded even through the distance. Caroline has always somehow known she can trust the Original, which isn't something she can say about many people these days.
For that reason, she doesn't protest Rebekah's decision, giving her an understanding smile to confirm it.
"Well in that case, let's make the most of tonight, before we go kick some supernatural ass."
If possible, Rebekah's face lights up at Caroline's words and she nods enthusiastically. Looping her arm around Caroline's, the older vampire guides her out of the room.
"Come on then. I'll show you where we keep the good stuff."
xxx
She feels his eyes on her the moment she enters the lavish ballroom.
The jazz band is playing a raucous tune and there are a million voices all around her, but all of that fades away when she feels his searing gaze.
Like a beacon, it calls to her, drawing her eyes to him until she spots him across the room. Rebekah chooses that moment to disappear into the crowd but Caroline registers nothing of it, focus intent on Klaus as he stands by the bar smiling appreciatively at her.
Caroline is just about to make her way to him when a feather-like touch on her shoulder halts her.
"Miss Forbes, may I have this dance?"
She immediately turns around to the source of the smooth, velvety voice.
"Elijah." She breathes out, a wide smile breaking out on her face at the sight of the elder Mikealson.
He looks as regal and poised as ever, gentle dark eyes warm and reserved as she accepts his hand, allowing him to lead her to the dance floor. The music conveniently slows down.
"It's good to see you." She admits a moment later, lamenting how long it's been since they've crossed paths.
Aside from her last trip to New Orleans, she had seen Elijah a handful of times over the years. However, those encounters were usually accidental and brief; nothing more than a shared bottle of wine or coffee when they ran into each other.
Although these meetings happened when Elijah was traveling through Europe, seeking reinforcements for their fight against Marcel, Caroline never asked about Klaus or what was happening in Louisiana.
Elijah never offered any information either. Instead, they exchanged stories of their travels, Elijah always spinning tales about the changes her favorite cities had undergone throughout the centuries. If there was something all Mikaelsons had in common, it was their ability to tell a good story.
Caroline knows, however, that this particular exchange will not be so light, not with how intently Elijah is looking at her.
"It's good to see you too, Caroline. Though I wish it were under different circumstances."
Caroline ducks her head immediately, choosing to focus on the nonexistent speck of dust on his immaculate tuxedo.
"Yeah, I'm sure you've been informed of the reason I am here." She replies softly.
Elijah must sense her mood shift because he tightens his grasp on her, just enough to comfort, reassure.
"There should be no cause for concern, sweet Caroline. My brother is already making good on his promise. Davina is on her way and she will be in New Orleans by sunrise, I imagine."
At that, Caroline looks up sharply, surprise and relief no doubt reflected in her eyes as she searches Elijah's gaze for confirmation.
"It's true." He nods, "And more so, I can attest to the fact that Niklaus never once dispatched any of his lackeys to follow you. He never once asked me how you were or where you were, even though it took every ounce of resolve he had."
Caroline feels herself grow annoyed, wondering why Elijah has chosen to divulge all this when he knows she cannot be distracted. She means to ask him but he isn't finished and his demeanor tells her so.
"But never doubt, Caroline, that you were one of the few anchors my brother held onto during this entire bloody mess with Marcel, and that it was killing him not to know that you were safe. Yet he did it to respect your wishes, even though he's anything but patient with people, especially the ones he cares about. So I implore you."
He pauses mid-thought, forcing her to look him in the eye despite her desire not to.
"No, I beg you, Caroline. Once this situation with Matt Donovan's grandson is resolved, regardless of the outcome, stop running. Stop running away from Niklaus, from a chance at family, and happiness. But more importantly stop punishing yourself with loneliness."
Her throat closes up as his words sink in. A distant part of her is angry with Elijah for being so forward. Mostly though, she knows he's right. She has been running; running for so long, she isn't sure what she sees when she looks over her shoulder anymore.
It suddenly occurs to her that the nomadic lifestyle is so natural to her now, she doesn't know anything else. Doesn't know if she's capable of putting down roots, accepting that she is worthy of love, of family, of attachments.
Elijah squeezes her hand again, but she doesn't react.
She wants to vow that she will do as he says, but when her lips part, she isn't sure she will say what he wants to hear.
Thankfully she doesn't have to disappoint him, because a moment later, a familiar shiver halts her speech.
"Dear brother, always eager to impress the most beautiful woman in the room with his dancing prowess. Mind if I cut in?"
Klaus, appearing unexpectedly, turns out to be the calming force she needs. And though this only adds credence to Elijah's words, Caroline has never been happier to see the other Original.
Sensing this, Elijah glances at her apologetically before stepping back and allowing Klaus to take over.
"Certainly, Niklaus. But you may have to step it up, especially with such a lovely partner."
"I think I'll manage, Elijah." Klaus replies coolly.
The exchange prompts a smile from Caroline, but she's still reeling from Elijah's words. Klaus senses this immediately. One palm lands on her hip as the other runs up her back and around her neck.
All pretense of jest is gone as he wills her to look at him, signaling that he has heard everything his brother told her.
"Are you okay, sweetheart? I am not sure what's gotten into Elijah but I have no qualms about breaking his nose. Even if tonight is no place for brotherly brawls."
His palm finds its way to her cheek then and though Caroline leans into it, betraying how deeply affected she is, she shakes her head simultaneously.
"No, no. No need for that. Let's just try to enjoy the party, alright?"
Klaus doesn't say anything, jaw set and eyes warring with latent fury as he tightens his grip on her.
She lets her lips brush across the corner of his palm in a last stitch effort to pacify him and it seems to work.
"Alright, love, alright." He pulls her impossibly closer, lips caressing the shell of her ear as he speaks.
"But only because you asked and I can't say no to you in that dress, or come to think of it, in anything else you may or may not wear."
His words are seduction and comfort interlaced, and Caroline fights the familiar ache rising somewhere deep inside her.
"Just shut up and dance." She mumbles into his shoulder, not ready to deal with any of it.
The low chuckle caressing her ear reverberates through her entire body as they begin to sway to the music.
xxx
Davina arrives much earlier than sunrise.
A mess of black tresses and dainty limbs, she barrels into Klaus' study sometime after midnight, pulling the hybrid into such a tight hug, Caroline think he might actually feel slightly suffocated, if possible.
His affection for the girl is, however, unmistakable. Klaus greets her intently, eyes checking her for any sign of injury or unnatural change, before asking her how she's been.
Davina enthusiastically fills him in on her whereabouts; reveling in the attention Klaus is giving her. Objectively, Caroline thinks she should be jealous, but she's feeling no such thing.
She's fuzzy on the details but knows that Davina is one of the most powerful witches the supernatural community has ever seen. She was also an integral player in Klaus' fight against Marcel.
Outside of that, however, Caroline isn't sure how the witch came to be on the Originals' side or why she will eternally be trapped in the body of a fifteen year old.
More importantly, Caroline doesn't care. As long as Klaus can deliver on his promise and Davina can perform the locator spell needed to find Eliot, Caroline is not concerned with Davina's existence. Maybe except that Klaus looks at her like the child he never had.
Lost in her observation, Caroline barely hears Klaus explain the situation to Davina until the girl's wary eyes shift to her. Caroline is immediately confronted by the depth of wisdom and understanding reflected in the dark orbs staring at her in curiosity.
Taking a step forward, Caroline decides to introduce herself.
"I'm Caroline."
"I know who you are." Davina nods curtly, gazing at Klaus momentarily, and Caroline swears she sees a surge of protectiveness wash over the girl.
Even though she is slightly annoyed that everyone around her seems to think she's out to hurt the Original, Caroline can't help feeling elated. It's evident that Klaus is surrounded by people who love him and want to protect him.
The knowledge spurs her into action, reminding her that the faster Davina can work her magic, the faster they can find Eliot, and the faster Caroline can start to deal with her own issues so she can be one of those people.
Klaus seems to sense the change in her and steps forward, fingers grazing the small of her back as he breaks hers and Davina's staring contest.
"Good, then we can cut through the unnecessary pleasantries and get to work." He suggests, eyes sternly fixing on Davina, as if to remind her that she has no place trying to intimidate Caroline.
His influence over the girl is apparent and Davina finally tears her eyes away from Caroline, who decides that when all of this is over, she would love to learn how Klaus created such a paternal bond with the child witch.
"Yes. I will need something of the boy's." Davina stubbornly addresses Klaus, but Caroline lets it go, acting above her desire to teach the adolescent some respect.
"I have a vial of his mother's blood and an old t-shirt." She offers instead, turning to the end table where the prepared items sit.
"That'll do." Davina concurs, taking off her jacket and tearing a sheet of paper from Klaus' discarded sketchpad.
Caroline hands her the items and walks back to where Klaus is standing, watching as the witchy prodigy settles into his chair and places the items on her lap.
"Doesn't she need a map or something?" Caroline asks Klaus, recalling times when she's witnessed witches perform locator spells in the past, particularly Bonnie.
Klaus takes advantage of their proximity and snakes his arm around her, settling it low on her hip.
"Davina isn't just any witch, love. She is a supernatural anomaly. Just watch." He instructs softly.
Caroline obliges, watching as Davina uncorks the vial of blood, inhaling and closing her eyes as she chants.
In a few moments, she begins to write something that looks like an address on the piece of paper.
"My God," Caroline muses absentmindedly, "it's like having your very own Ouija board."
Klaus' resounding chuckle makes her look over her shoulder at him and the amusement in his eye gives way to something that can only be described as adoration.
She wants to grab onto this moment and never let go. Let the intensity of his feelings for her overwhelm her in the sweetest way possible. Her hands twitch at her sides, eager to reach out and touch him; close whatever little space there is between them and to hell with the rest of the world.
But it's not that simple and this is never more apparent to Caroline then when Davina breaks the moment, pressing the folded sheet of paper into Caroline's side.
"You'll find him at that address. I felt him. He's not currently in pain but that may be because he is heavily sedated or unconscious. Either way he's still alive. Now, from what I hear, there is a party downstairs so if you'll excuse me. Niklaus, you will come find me when you are done here?"
Caroline barely reacts to Davina's flippancy, rather focused on the new information about Eliot. However, she can feel Klaus simmering besides her as he fixes Davina with a disapproving look.
Before he can say anything though, Caroline places a firm hand on his shoulder, saddened for the girl, rather than offended. It's clear that Davina has experienced share of heartbreak and horror, leaving her immune to this kind of thing and it's a pity.
"Go, I will find you later." Klaus instructs the girl before directing his attention to Caroline in such a way that makes it clear to Davina that her presence is no longer welcome.
To her credit, the witch knows when to follow orders and disappears just as quickly as she came. For long moments after, Caroline can still hear her, heartbeat loud and distinct, until it falls in sync with the hundreds or so downstairs.
"Caroline," Klaus' surprisingly unsure voice lulls her back to the present. Instinctively, she fists the piece of paper in her hand as she wills herself to refocus.
"I'm alright," She smiles gently, answering his unspoken inquiry, but she can tell he doesn't believe her.
"Go get your things together," he suggests softly, "I'll find Rebekah and make travel arrangements for you both."
It's only then that Caroline realizes she doesn't even know where they're going and immediately unravels the sheet of paper.
New York.
Eliot is in New York.
And they're going to find him.
The knowledge reinvigorates her and Caroline nods at Klaus meaningfully, "I'll be in my room. Come find me."
Then she flashes out of his study.
xxx
She's just about to take off the loaned necklace, the last piece of her costume, when she feels the subtle gust of wind behind her.
"Keep it."
His voice is velvety soft against her shoulder and Caroline tries to betray nothing of his effect on her when their eyes meet in the vanity mirror. For a moment, she contemplates keeping the jewelry. After all, it is a beautiful piece; a delicate silver chain dotted with circular crystals, all in varying shades of blue that meet in the middle with a diamond shaped sapphire framed in silver.
But then the fantasy fades as she spots her duffel bag by the bed.
"I don't think Rebekah would like that very much." She concedes with a half smirk, carefully unclasping the necklace and setting it down on the vanity.
"It's actually from my collection, so my dear sister has no say."
Caroline turns around then, eyebrow quirked in slight disbelief.
Klaus just shrugs at her, arms clasped behind his back as he gives her a sliver of space, but not much.
"It's true, love. I purchased it from a French jeweler friend of mine for a mademoiselle I happened to take an interest in; circa late 1700s, I believe. But sadly she was killed during one of the early revolutionary uprisings and I never had the chance to give it to her. Now that I've seen you in it, I'm glad she never got a chance to wear it."
His eyes fix on her again, something dark and stormy brewing in them, and Caroline literally has to blink to snap herself out of the hold he has on her.
It's incredibly frustrating how her grip on control is so tenuous around him, but the thrill that runs through her is also addictive. She can't help tilting her head just slightly, playful smirk on her lips.
"Even if I did believe you, I thought I made it clear. No extravagant gifts from you, remember?"
Klaus smiles widely at this, as if he knows something she doesn't, and merely leans towards her. He doesn't say anything but Caroline inhales sharply out of habit. All this does is muddle her brain even more as his distinct scent invades the air around her. It's exactly as she remembers, the hint of musk, something earthy, and a faint trace of cologne.
The urge to kiss him nearly overpowers her.
It's hard to resist even when she realizes he's reaching behind her to wrap the necklace in its cloth, if for no other reason. He's still so close, she can make out the constellation of birthmarks on the side of his neck and it forces her to slide away from him, lest she do something she will regret.
Klaus looks at her sharply, knowingly, cataloguing her movements and inevitably isolating the impetus for it. But he stays silent, despite the subtle clenching of his jaw. Instead, he tugs at her wrist and places the necklace into her open palm.
"Take it." He says sternly and it occurs to her that the momentary coldness in his eyes is merely a cover. A well-worn ruse meant to conceal the fear and disappointment he feels at her departure.
Her heart twists painfully as she bites the inside of her cheek to stave off the guilt. She takes the necklace with a nod and for a moment contemplates whether she should say something or not.
But Klaus, yet again, saves her from digging a hole for herself and speaks first.
"My brother may have lacked tact this evening but he wasn't wrong."
Her stomach tightens in anticipation as she watches his expression change again. The coldness melts away, leaving him naked and exposed in front of her in all his frustrated and fiery glory. It's the Klaus she had been expecting to see; that impatient, volatile, temperamental man who can both aggravate and arouse her simultaneously has finally arrived.
She doesn't even blink when he leans forward, trapping her against the vanity with an arm on either side as he bridges the proximity between them.
"I'm not a patient man, Caroline. I never have been, even when I was human, and I know letting you go for the last two decades was the right thing to do, both for your safety and your peace of mind."
He pauses, watching her with a fiery determination that heats her from the inside.
"I know you have an obligation to retrieve the Donovan boy, and while letting you out of my sight is the last thing I want to do, I understand. I understand why you have to go, Caroline but I am warning you, next time I see you, I will not be so understanding."
He reaches for her cheek, gentle despite his stern warning.
"I'm done being patient. I'm done letting you leave. And I felt that you should know this, so that next time we meet, there are no misconceptions, no doubts or questions about what I want."
The way he says this, his voice wrapping around the words like silk, leaves absolutely no uncertainty about exactly what he wants and Caroline shivers involuntarily. He stands absolutely still before her, warm breath skirting her lips as he waits very patiently for her reply.
She knows she should say something, but her mind isn't cooperating. Instead, she traces a mental path across his face, taking in his darkened blue gaze, sharp cheekbones, stubbled jaw, and pausing at his lips.
The way he purses them together doesn't take away from their fullness; their deep red tint still as tempting as ever and Caroline unconsciously bites her own as she fixates on his mouth.
Her eyes momentarily flicker to his before falling back down, realizing that they're at a standstill, and despite the speech about his impatience and his desires, Caroline knows he will not give in, will not make the first move…
"Oh hell…" she mutters to no one in particular before finally taking what she wants.
The first press of her lips against his seems to unleash something within him and not a second later, Caroline feels herself lifted off the ground and pushed onto the vanity.
Empowered by her own boldness, she kisses him furiously, with abandon, getting lost in the sensation of his tongue sliding expertly around hers as she wraps her entire body around him.
All urgency to leave disappears as Klaus wastes no time on modesty and immediately slides his palms under her t-shirt. Talented fingers dance across her bare back and she arches into him, breasts molding against his hard chest in an effort to alleviate some of the tension building inside her.
A distant part of her mind, the last rational piece of her psyche acknowledges that this is exactly what she did not want to happen, but it's not enough to overpower the sensations awakening within her.
It's more than just the physical pleasure that's numbing her self-control, but rather the feelings that accompany it that threaten to disarm her completely.
It's as if initiating the kiss has left her wide open, forcing her to actually confront her feelings instead of running from them. And now that she's here, in this moment, allowing herself to actually give in, Caroline thinks there's no other place she'd rather be.
Somehow this only spurs her further, fingers pulling at the base of Klaus' curls as she tears her mouth away from his lips. She traces a heated path down his throat, tongue tracing the small collection of birthmarks she couldn't look away from before.
In all her decades as part of the undead, Caroline never thought there would be a more delicious and dangerous yearning than bloodlust, but that was before…before she's gotten a taste of his skin.
She's so consumed by her exploration, she doesn't even realize one of his hands has changed direction until it slips inside her bra; a curious touch against the swell of her breast.
Caroline acts on instinct and flashes them to the bed; not giving either of them a moment of respite as she resumes kissing him, blond hair falling like a curtain around them.
Klaus uses their new position to his advantage and slides his entire hand beneath her bra, thumb brushing purposefully over her nipple. The subsequent jolt of pleasure causes her to break away from him; their eyes meet.
It's only a brief pause but a sense of understanding passes silently between them and Caroline indulges herself in one more kiss before separating completely. The emptiness that replaces his hands on her body leaves a lump in her throat but she pushes it down, refusing to focus on how much it hurts to move away from him.
Klaus doesn't try to fight her on this, but he also doesn't hide his displeasure. He does give her space to gather herself, retreating to the small liquor cabinet in the corner of the room while she checks her make-up in the mirror.
As she watches her reflection, Caroline realizes she can't hide behind circumstances anymore. She can't use Eliot's disappearance as an excuse to conceal her true emotions. Mind made up, she turns around, words already at the tip of her tongue when Klaus flashes in front of her.
"Don't say anything you're not ready to truly admit." He cautions softly, entire demeanor betraying his desire to touch her. Caroline admires his restraint, because she feels the pull as well.
She shakes her head at him as she marvels at how well he knows her. How easily he can anticipate her next action, even though their entire interaction in the last eighty years can be summed up in just a few encounters.
"You have got to stop doing that," she warns him ruefully, placing a careful palm on his chest.
Klaus smirks in turn, grasping said hand in his and running his lips over her knuckles.
"I can't, love." He shrugs, eyes returning to their playful glint. "It's as natural as craving blood for me."
Caroline stares at him with wide eyes, admiring both his continued honesty and the depth of his apparent feelings. She hopes he will interject shortly, because she doesn't know what to say. This time, they are conveniently interrupted.
"Caroline," Elijah catches their attention from the doorway, eyes flickering momentarily to their proximity before focusing solely on her.
"The car is ready for you, and Rebekah is waiting downstairs, quite impatiently I might add."
"Thank you, brother. She'll be right there." Klaus answers for her with a clenched jaw, gaze not veering away from her face.
Clearly he's still upset with Elijah but Caroline won't let the older Mikaelson leave without a smile and a nod – indication that she doesn't share Klaus's anger.
"I have to go." She whispers, but makes no move to pull herself away.
Klaus doesn't seem to be in a rush to let her go either. A few seconds pass, however, and he finally drops her wrist, in favor of retrieving a small card from the inside of his suit jacket.
His face is serious again as he slides it into her back pocket.
"A friend I trust in New York City; that's his card."
He doesn't specify whether this friend is of the human or supernatural variety but Caroline doesn't question it.
"If anything goes wrong, and I mean anything, call him. He'll know what to do."
She doesn't even want to think about what could possibly go so terribly wrong that she'd have to reach out to a stranger to bail her out of trouble, especially with Rebekah by her side. But if there's anything she's learned over the years, it's that anything can happen so she merely nods, accepting his preemptive help without debate.
"Thank you…for everything."
He nods mutely, retrieving her duffel bag and handing it to her. He doesn't try to kiss her or even touch her, perhaps to preserve his tenuous grip on self-control or because it might be too painful.
Either way, Caroline is grateful, knowing she cannot afford any more distraction, despite how good it feels. If anything, for the first time her mind is fully clear since arriving at the Mikaelson mansion that morning and she grabs onto this clarity, drawing as much strength from it as she can.
Especially when she's leaving.
It's only when she's at the doorway that Caroline realizes that he won't be escorting her out. Though she thinks her heart might actually crack if she chances a glance at him, she does so anyway. She owes him that and much more.
Despite his smile, Caroline knows he's struggling but words seem superfluous at this moment. So she takes him in one last time, committing the vision of him disheveled in his tuxedo to memory before walking out of the room.
In the years to come, she will wish that she had kissed him one more time.
xxx