~ 2015 - Portland, Oregon - Manfred Estate ~
"They're engaged, Andrea, my dear."
The words rang clear in her mind after the conversation with her father. Andrea retired to her room, the door closing with a subtle click. The soft thud of her head against the door was the only sound upstairs. It was true, all the rumors. All the talk around the Coven about the Bennett witch he dared to bring to his Coven Leader initiation.
Her hands were balled as she strode across the room in a wide pace. How could he?! She wasn't one of them. She was an outsider! Even worse? She was covenless regardless of her being a Bennett. She was the last of them. Andrea could hear the grinding of her teeth as she came to a halt. The air escaped her in a violent hiss because this complicated everything.
Julian had groomed his daughter to take his place. She was the most clever and capable of all his children. He knew that she would make him proud and that she would follow their ways to the letter. He wouldn't have to worry about her straying or ignoring his advice. He knew that when he passed on that Andrea could handle herself and the duties set before her.
She was just as cunning as he was and this was but a mere obstacle to what she wanted. It was true she had always been curious of Malachai. He was an anomaly, a curiosity, and he was the talk of the Coven. It had been a long time since a siphoner had been born into the Coven. So when it was discovered that not only did they have a siphoner, but it was the Coven Leader's son?
All eyes were on Joshua Parker to see how he'd handle the situation. And before Andrea realized it, time had passed and Malachai was deemed unstable. And then he was gone. Her father explained the prison world, a legacy of the Gemini. A legacy that was made possible by the Bennett Coven. She remembered Sheila Bennett coming to visit the Gemini compound often. Her father said that the Bennett's were useful but of no consequence.
So she continued with her life and gave the woman no more thought. It's funny how that memory came to mind. Now that her granddaughter was here making a fool out of the whole Coven. Andrea sat down by the window side chaise in her room.
Her head tilted as she remembered something from her history class. A quote so simple and perfectly reflecting this situation.
"The only use of an obstacle is to overcome it." A quiet murmur as she considered Woodrow Wilson's words. "There's still time. There's still plenty of time." A firm nod to herself as she rose. There was time before Bonnie Bennett started her internship.
Plenty of time to formulate the lengthy dissolution of Bonnie and Kai's relationship. Plenty of time for her father to work his magic. Andrea had slipped into bed with the ideas already swirling in her head. A faint smile tickled the corner of her lips.
She enjoyed a good, slow burn, anyway.
Julian waited for the soft click of Andrea's door before he returned to his office study. He picked up the phone and dialed Joshua Parker's number.
It rang twice before the former coven leader picked up.
"Julian. To what do I owe the honor?" Joshua was most likely settled in his own office. Surrounded by mandates, requests, and information left long unattended, no doubt.
Julian swirled his glass of alcohol before speaking. "The Bennett girl is interning at Portland State where Andrea currently works." He smirked as he heard the Elder Parker go silent. "Fortuitous, is it not?" He took a sip from his glass as the information settled between them.
He could practically hear Joshua smiling on the other end. "Rather fortuitous, indeed. What are you planning to do?" He arched a brow as he waited for the Elder Manfred to respond.
"I have an idea. So does Andrea. We think we can salvage this." He waited for a response from Joshua. When he heard none, Julian continued with Joshua's silence lingering. "I understand he is your son, Joshua. But the tumultuous relationship between you two creates a problem. As a caretaker for the Coven Leader, I think you should let me do what I do best."
There was a long pause. He could almost guess that Joshua was attempting to put together what he was laying out before him. Julian heard the muscle pop from Joshua's jaw on the other line. Deny it as he might, his old friend knew that he had a point. He wouldn't have gotten away with half of the things he often said in private when Joshua was coven leader if that were not the case.
"You know what, Julian? You're right." There was a soft sigh. The smile entered the Elder Parker's voice, though it Julian was certain that it didn't meet his eyes. It rarely did. "Malachai and I haven't seen eye to eye ever. Perhaps my approach continues to inspire his rebellion. And you're right. As the caretaker of the Coven, this is something I'm sure you're prepared to handle."
There was a momentary finger tap on the desk. Both from him and Joshua almost simultaneously.
"You have my blessing, Julian. Do what you can to convince Malachai that the needs of the Coven are paramount. And if you manage to break the Bennett Witch's heart and send her back to Mystic Falls? That would be all to the better."
Julian chuckled softly.
"I will endeavor to keep that in mind, Joshua." Andrea would handle that bit of discourse perfectly. Julian was already prepared for dragging Kai into the depths of Gemini politics. He would get the chance to mold the new Leader and that was more than he could ask for. All he needed now was to -
"Oh, and Julian?" The Elder Parker's voice knocked Julian from his scheming.
"Yes, my friend?" He answered smoothly.
"We still need the Bennett Witch alive. I don't have to remind you that though she is the last of her line, her blood - her very presence is built into some of our spells. We need her away from Kai, but alive and thriving. Just not here." Joshua spoke pointedly. He thought of the fierce will of Sheila Bennett. The last thing he wanted on his conscience, on their hands - was the true extinction of the Bennett line.
"Of course, of course. I'll handle everything, Joshua." Julian smiled as he took the last swallow of his drink.
Joshua chuckled at the surety in Julian's voice. "Good luck, Julian. Do keep me posted. Enjoy your evening."
"And you as well, Joshua."
The call disconnected, leaving Julian Manfred feeling a rush of power he hadn't anticipated. He would bring Kai under heel, send Bonnie back to Virginia. Then see to planning the biggest wedding any coven on the West Coast had ever seen.
Joshua stared at his phone long after the call ended. He sighed, letting his fingers rub against the throb in his temples. Julian was going to need a lot more than luck here. But, he would enjoy the show - for now.
The Autumn equinox gathering was looming. The Samhain All Coven Circle would be soon after. If he knew any better, and he did, Julian would have Kai swimming in tedious Coven affairs before too long.
This would be entertaining, indeed.
Kai was riding a rainbow-colored cloud of bliss. The last few nights had left him feeling even closer to Bonnie than ever before. They kept teasing and taunting their darker nature's together - and it was fucking fantastic. He was seeing Bonnie blossom and open up even more. He sat on the patio staring at the lazy motion of the river behind the complex.
People were still enjoying the peak of summer. His lips pursed as he considered that they really hadn't done much for the summer themselves. Kai raised the cup of steaming coffee to his lips before the ring of his phone interrupted him.
It was still fairly early in the morning so he had an inclination of who it could be. His face scrunched when he saw Julian Manfred's name appear on the screen. It was on the third ring before he took a deep breath and answered the phone.
He managed a genuine politeness after the first sip of coffee. "Good morning, Julian. To what do I owe the honor?" A brow arched as he leaned back in the chair.
Julian smiled, and it actually carried into his voice. "Ah, Malachai. I feel I've got you at a good time, I take?"
Kai rolled his eyes and managed a chuckle. Yes, it's a good time. Because Bonnie is asleep and she doesn't have to deal with you.
"Yeah, I suppose. I'm enjoying a beautiful morning. What can I do for you? I'm sure you didn't call to discuss the weather." Julian mirrored Kai's chuckle.
"Very astute of you, Malachai. I do have some matters of great importance to discuss with you. Would you be able to make it to my home for lunch? There are some matters in the Minor Covens that need your attention. There is also a very large, very important gala that we need to start making preparations for. Samhain will be upon us before you know it."
Kai could feel his coffee cooling as Julian ran down the laundry list of things he hadn't taken care of since his inauguration. His father had been handling most of that work, trying to catch up with the things that he himself had left behind.
He thought he had more time. It was apparent, unfortunately, that time was up. He couldn't put these things off any longer. Not without severely risking his position and the possibility of allies in the younger ranks of the Coven.
Kai knew he had to show he was responsible, capable, and powerful. Luckily, he was resourceful and a damned charming bastard. He knew this would be the first time he has dealt with the Minor Covens. And he shuddered at the thought of a gala. But, he knew what that party meant for the Gemini. It was a chance to schmooze, resolidify bonds with the Minor covens, and possibly add to the Gemini ranks.
He knew better than anyone the plethora of covenless power roaming the West Coast. Most of the covenless were younger, disillusioned witches that didn't want to deal with the Old Guard mentality. This would be the base of his power. These covenless would be the voices he needed to overturn the old ways.
He just needed to get out there first. "I guess we'll be having a business lunch, then?" There was a gulp of coffee as thoughts of a summer getaway began to fade from his brain. Julian clucked his tongue against his teeth.
"I'd say that would be correct. There is much I need to show you, as Coven Leader, to keep things running. And to mainly keep the flock happy." He could hear Julian tapping his finger on the other line. "I have some things to prepare for your arrival. I'll be ready to receive you at 1pm."
Kai sighed heavily. "1pm it is. Enjoy your morning, Julian."
He disconnected the call and fought the urge to toss his phone into Willamette river. He stared at his reflection in the cup before finishing the drink. His hand smoothed over his face as he stood. It's fine, it'll be fine.
He just needed to shower, dress, and then tell Bonnie. His frown deepened as he made his way back into the house. His steps halted as he already saw that Bonnie was very awake nursing a cup of coffee and a very neutral expression.
Kai's eyes lowered a tad as he moved into the kitchen to pour another cup. "How much did you hear?" Bonnie scoffed softly but continued to drink her coffee. Well, so much for that beautiful morning. Kai turned to lean against the counter as he settled his gaze on her. She looked wonderfully ruffled and tucked into one of his shirts.
"What exactly have you been doing while I was in school?" she asked, more curiously than accusatory. "I mean, not that I don't doubt you'll be busy as a Coven Leader. But, that sounded like some things that have been on the back burner for a moment." Green eyes shifted to him and back to her cup.
He ran a hand through his hair with a sigh. "Look, my father said he would handle a bulk of the duties seeing as a lot of the things on the table was old business. It suddenly sounds like that business isn't as old as he said."
"I don't like it." Bonnie shook her head and set her cup down. "I just...I don't like it. The timing."
Kai frowned, moving to her side. "Bon, I know it really is shit timing. But, if I'm going to get these old birds out of my hair, I have to show that I'm capable along with my crazy. Plus, this is a chance to bring a lot of solitary witches into a Coven that isn't trapped in the past. That's my one hope - the thing I hope to accomplish. Because once I do?" He grabbed her shoulders to turn her to face him. Bonnie's expression remained slightly discontent.
"Once I do that? Then the old guys are out. Then us kids will be in charge." He gave her that typical lopsided grin. "...then I would be comfortable asking you to join the Gemini. But not a moment before. I need to turn this Coven inside out. Then shake it all about." He was attempting to make light of the feat he was setting out to accomplish.
Bonnie's lips curled slightly in the corners. She knew what this was going to be like, at least she thought she did. She understood the undertaking of becoming the Coven Leader and what it meant for him. It was supposed to mean freedom, opportunity, and maybe a chance at happiness. She bit into the meat of her lower lip as the past two years ran by in her mind.
She knew that he had devoted a lot of time to help her get settled and get through school. Her eyes closed as she exhaled deeply. Now it was her turn. To be there for him as the Elders of the Gemini finally got a full, focused taste of Malachai Parker.
Bonnie was aware that she could handle herself and she had time before her internship started. There was a lot she could do and she knew they'd have plenty of time together. Her hands slid up against his bare chest until her arms looped around the back of his neck.
He leaned down to wrap his arms around her frame. Their foreheads touching as they stood in a heavy silence. "Bon…" His brow furrowed as he tried to pull up words that would be comforting. She shook her head and smiled.
"I know. It's not like it was two years ago. We live together. We'll be fine. You'll be fine. Now the rest of the Gemini on the other hand?" She smirked.
He laughed, pressing a sweltering kiss on her lips. Bonnie's nails scraped against the hair at the nape of his neck as their tongues danced. She broke the kiss while giving him that look. "Don't you have to meet him at one?" she asked as she pressed herself flush against him. He inhaled deeply at the feel of her breasts against his body.
Kai looked at his watch with a growl. "It'll be quick."
"You don't know the meaning, Malachai Parker," Bonnie teased as she rubbed against him.
"It'll be quick for a man that has two hours before a business lunch." It was a little after 11am. Bonnie was ready to say something else but was interrupted as he scooped her up into his arms. She tossed her head back in a laugh as he headed toward the stairs.
"Plus, I'm going to kill two birds with one stone." He gave her a devious smile that had her gut turning.
"Oh?"
"I need a shower after all." He turned that darkened gaze to her.
"Oh."
Her eyes were wide as he walked them toward the bathroom. He set her down as he reached in to turn on the water. He pulled her hard against him, letting her feel the result of all her teasing. She purred quietly as he nibbled along her jaw.
Returning to drown her in deep, heated kisses. Suddenly, they were a flurry of discarded clothes and reaching fingers. Kai pressed her against the shower wall and peppered her body with kisses. He ran his tongue over every inch of her body.
The sighs, mewls, and whimpers of pleasure finally became too much for them both. He turned her to face him while lifting her against the wall. They traded breaths for the longest time until they splintered in orgasmic bliss together.
They washed each other...and repeated the process all over again. After the second reckoning, he carried Bonnie back to bed clad in a towel. She watched him rush to get dressed with a smirk on her face. He went from having two hours to just thirty minutes.
He growled as he moved from room to room trying to become presentable. By the time he was finished dressing, he had fifteen minutes.
"What was that you were saying about quick for two hours?" Bonnie teased again as he shrugged on a light jacket. He narrowed his eyes at her, planted a loud kiss on her neck and hurried out of the room.
"It's all your fault, just so you know! Totally blaming this on you!" he called from downstairs before the echo of the door shutting vibrated the house. He left Bonnie alone, upstairs in a towel, and dissolving into a fit of laughter.
~ 2015 - Portland, Oregon - Manfred Estate ~
Kai didn't want to think about how many laws he broke to arrive at the Manfred Estate in only twenty minutes. There was nothing wrong with being fashionably late. Strangely enough, luckily, Julian looked as if he was just returning from walking the grounds.
"Ah, Malachai! Welcome, welcome. Please come in." He met Kai with an extended hand. They shook as the Elder Manfred spread his hands toward the house. "Are you hungry?"
Kai smiled - wide - and inclined his head as if some memory popped in his head. "You know what, Julian? I'm famished."
The other man nodded his head with a laugh. "Good, good. Good food. A bit of a drink should get us in the business mood." Kai was sure there was nothing that would spoil his mood. Not after his exciting morning.
"I had a great morning, after all. This shouldn't be too bad." Kai's genuine good mood was going to be a boon. At least that's what he believed. Julian appeared to have an equally jovial expression but Kai doubted it was for the same reason he was feeling.
That was until they entered the house...and Andrea stood to wait for them in the entryway. Kai managed to keep that good feeling close to him as she approached.
"Malachai! It's been a while. How are you?" She approached and seemed to open her arms for a hug. He managed to stop her in her tracks by grabbing her hand, pressing his lips to the back of her knuckles.
"I'm quite well, actually. You're looking good as usual."
Andrea managed to save face and not let her disappointment shift her expression. "Ah, yes, well. You know hard works keeps you young and spry." Her hand fell away to her side as she let her smile widen. "Lunch is ready if you would follow me to the dining room."
Kai's smile faltered just a bit more. "You'll be joining us?" he asked curiously.
She stopped and turned confused, almost mockingly so, look over her shoulder. "Of course, I'll be joining you." She tilted her head with a small smile. "I'm going to be taking over for Daddy soon. So, I'll be working along with you to help get the Coven business all in order." There that brighter smile as she turned toward the dining room.
Julian was trailing behind silently as they spoke. Kai turned as the Elder Manfred finally matched his steps. "I didn't know we were having company." He managed not to sound too upset.
The older witch nodded softly. "I apologize for not making you aware, Malachai. Things have been piling up and your father just couldn't keep up with all the work. So, we've been slowly taking things from him, trying to give him a bit of a break. I'm sure you understand? She's going to be my successor so since she had the day off, I asked her to join." He clapped a hand on Kai's shoulder with a gentle smile.
"It's best you two get in sync now. It's the way I started with your father. Tradition, my boy. It's about the traditions." He gave Kai a squeeze before walking ahead to follow Andrea. Julian's face cracked into an inky smile as he joined Andrea in the dining room. This caused Kai's expression to darken a measure.
Kai stood back running his hands through his hair. "Dammit, Bonnie," he hissed softly under his breath. Those damned Bennett witches and their foresight. He let his head fall back with an inhale. There was a deep exhale as he gave himself a shake and finally made it into the dining room.
The house servants were piling in from the kitchen as he settled into a chair. Silver domed trays of various sizes were settled in front of the trio. Kai tilted his head at the contents of their business lunch. This was more like a five-course meal at a restaurant.
Kai said he was famished. The appearance of Andrea Manfred seemed to affect that deep hunger from the morning activities. A napkin was grabbed and placed in his lap. Those etiquette lessons paid off as he grabbed the appropriate utensils to start with the salad in front of him. Julian's lips pursed in an appreciative expression.
Julian had underestimated the younger Parker, just a smidge, it seemed. He had some social mannerisms after all. So that's one thing he could check off his list. He could tell that Kai was uncomfortable, despite his efforts to mask it, while around Andrea.
He smirked as they started their meals. A piece of prime rib had been laid on each of their plates. Julian nodded appreciatively of today's offering. "So, Malachai, there are a few things that are of great importance that need to be handled rather immediately." He picked up the first forkful of meat while turning to the Coven leader as he took the first bite.
Kai chewed quietly, nodding his head for Julian to finish. The Elder Manfred smiled pleasantly as he continued. "Well, seeing as we have this upcoming gala, we're going to need to have you make your rounds to the Minor Covens within the Gemini."
Julian sat back so that he could use the napkin across his lap. "We made an excuse that you had a lot of catching up to do. Mainly due to your return from the Prison World, and needing to catch up with modern day..." He twirled his hands as he fought for a word. "...everything. We need to now make these visits and meet the local Coven leaders."
There was a huff of air that escaped Kai as he put his utensils down. The Coven Leader reached for his own napkin and the glass of wine at his side. Julian tilted his head as he spoke. "We need to maintain the support of these Covens to stay strong. Not to mention the yearly Grand Circle cannot be completed without them."
He noticed the muscle ticking in Kai's jaw as he drank his wine. "Are we sure?" the younger Parker questioned with the arch of a brow.
"We wouldn't dare risk it, Kai. There are certain things you just can't mess with in a Coven of this size." Andrea spoke up quietly as she set her glass down.
Julian smiled at his daughter's response. She's found her footing in this conversation. He steepled his fingers, offering a nod to her to continue on. There was an inclination of her head as she turned back to Kai.
Julian couldn't have been more proud of her. He watched as Andrea recounted the important duties of the Coven Leader. She explained why it was important to physically visit each coven. She blocked him at every opportunity to be sloppy, or figure out a shortcut. Andrea Manfred had backed Kai into a corner. All without once mentioning his fiancèe.
They made no real mention of Bonnie or his engagement to her. There was no need for her to be brought up now. They didn't need to show where their stance was - to reveal their hand. The Manfreds attacked his foundation with power, responsibility, and duty.
All three things that he had not fulfilled in the last two years messing around with Bonnie Bennett. By the time the Manfreds were done running down the laundry list of things they had handled for him, Kai looked momentarily downtrodden. It was exactly where they wanted him to be.
They finished their lunch with a few minor affairs about local coven business.
Kai finished his food and looked as if his head was full to bursting. Julian smiled as the servants removed their plates. They were replaced with tea, coffee, and a tray of delicate shortbread cookies. He watched with a rather perverse satisfaction as Kai seemed to be lost in thought.
"A penny for your thoughts, Malachai?"
There was that minute flinch at the use of his full name. The pleasure in that discomfort was sweet enough that he drank his espresso straight. Julian waited for Kai to collect himself. He reminded him of a small child holding his cup with both hands.
The Elder Manfred leaned back in his seat and watched Kai's face flicker into an uneasy smile. "It's a lot, my boy, I know. But, the Manfred's have been the right hand of the Coven Leader since the Gemini's inception. We will happily guide you along this path. You're not alone." Julian reached out to pat Andrea's hand as she smiled at her father.
"He's right, Kai. I've lived this life in preparation for this very thing. Trust me. We'll get you settled into your role in no time." She smiled coyly, reaching across the table to offer her hand. "I want the best for the Coven, like anyone else. So, what do you say?"
Kai looked between them both, he knew he had no choice. He reached out and took Andrea's hand gently. "I look forward to working with you." Julian finished his espresso and clapped his hands with a wide smile.
"Splendid! We'll finish getting your duties together. We'll start with the most urgent matters. This will probably mean a few days out of the city. It all depends on who answers us first, as well." Julian pushed to stand as Kai rose, rather suddenly, at that bit of information.
"A f-few days, you said?" He couldn't hide the nervousness in his voice.
Julian nodded, "Yes, there are Covens down the coast you need to visit, my boy. They're eager to meet the new leader and they have gripes. You have to settle disputes, after all." He watched Kai thread his fingers through his hair. He managed to keep the venom from his smile.
Julian clapped a hand on Kai's shoulder, bringing him closer in a buddy-like motion. "Don't worry, my boy! Andrea and I will handle everything. When we get everything together, we'll let you know what kind of time-table you're on. It could be a few days or more. We'll try to keep it to a minimum. We don't want you getting overwhelmed too quickly. If we have to take it week by week, we can do that." Kai's hands were in his pockets, and Julian could see his mind working.
Before Kai realized it, Julian had talked him to the front door.
"Malachai, it'll be fine." Julian smiled, now with both his hands on his shoulders.
Kai smiled weakly in response. "Thanks for lunch. I'll be waiting for that call then. Julian." He clapped a hand on the Elder Manfred's shoulders, nodding his head in Andrea's direction. "Andrea. You both enjoy the rest of your day." And with that, Kai walked down the path toward his car.
Julian closed the door and watched Kai's pace quicken toward his car. The Elder Manfred smiled as he heard the peel of tires at Kai's retreat.
"I think we're in business, dear girl." He smiled and turned toward his daughter.
Andrea stood smiling with a finger lingering on her bottom lip in thought. "We need to start with the farthest covens. Make sure to gather everything for each Coven. I don't care how old the issues are. The longer we can keep him away from her, the better our chances."
Julian wrapped an arm around her shoulders as they made their way toward his study. "Tell them to have a welcome dinner, Tell them he needs to do a closing Circle for luck sake. Tell them anything to make their need of him greater than a few mere days."
They stopped just short of the study door. Andrea nodded turning to hug her father tightly.
"We can do this. I'm sure of it." He let his fingers run over the silk of her red hair. "Now, off with you. You have a lot of planning to do."
There was a dark glint to her smile. "Yes, Father. Of course."
"Dammit."
The road wound in front of him as he peeled out of the Manfred estate.
"DAMMIT!"
Kai slapped the wheel, the dashboard, and finally - himself. The calm, rational conversation wasn't what he expected. He had every intention of raising his voice. Hell, he planned to flat out make a scene; a show of force to put Julian Manfred on notice.
Malachai Parker cannot be tamed, ran, or managed. He was his own entity - charming, sophisticated, psychotic. All the traits needed to be a leader.
It was clear as day that he would be fine.
Until they explained that he, in fact, would not be okay. Being with Bonnie had mellowed that side of him quick to explode heads and hearts. Logic wasn't a strong suit, but it was becoming an invaluable lesson. He focused on his food while these duties were listed.
He managed to not flinch when Julian mentioned the fact they'd been covering for him for the last two years. The last two years while he'd been trying to woo Bonnie Bennett. Two years while he did the bare minimum, making sure he was there for every one of Bonnie's rise and falls in the college grading system.
They fell in love, broke up, got back together and faced what life threw at them. The price to secure that love, the things he ignored to be with her - it was all coming back around.
Kai came to a hurried stop before blowing the sign posted nearby. "FUUUUCCCKK!?"
He slapped both his hands on the steering wheel, barely missing the horn. His knuckles were white as he grabbed the steering wheel. His teeth slid grinding in his mouth as he began to seethe.
What had he been doing?
A horn honking behind him broke the spell. Dark eyes focused in the rear view mirror, but he paused. Because he didn't want murder on his hands when he got home. This was going to put a monkey wrench in everything.
The drive home wasn't long enough as he pulled up in front of his place. His hands raked through his hair as he felt the beads of sweat forming. "...well, I'm sure when I explain this she'll need a vacation anyway."
There was a groan as he opened the door.
He was like a toddler on the walk of shame. The keys jingled a moment as he reached the door. His shoulders slumped as he opened the door and stepped inside.
As he entered, he slid his shoes off and set them to the side on the shoe rack where the rest of his and Bonnie's were situated. She had insisted on it, seeing as they had hardwood floors that needed to truly be felt. He wasn't about to argue with her over something as small as shoes - especially when he could see where she was coming from.
When he looked around in the living room, Bonnie was nowhere to be found. He set his keys in the dish on the kitchen counter, poking his head around the first floor to see where she could be. Still no Bonnie. He figured she might be upstairs so he made his way up them two at a time, moving to the door to the right and into the master bedroom.
Bonnie was standing on their bed, clad in just an over-sized gray sweatshirt. More than likely her Portland State one. She was on her tiptoes, attempting to hang up a silk wall scroll that he remembered her purchasing online a couple of months back. Something from Bali? There was hand brushed calligraphy characters written on the side, the rest of the image a depiction of a mountainside with forests blossoming their fall colors across the skyline as a haze of soft clouds littered the upper half of the scroll.
He waited until she was able to hook the string on the nail, securing it in place, before clearing his throat loudly to make his presence known.
"Oh, shit!" she squealed, stumbling slightly and losing her balance. Kai raced over to her side and quickly caught her before she could fall to the floor. He grinned when she pouted up at him, smacking his chest. "Christ, you scared me!"
"You should pay more attention, Bonster," he reprimanded, tsking her as he gently set her down onto the ground. "What if I was a burglar with the intent to rob and murder you?"
"I didn't sense any ill intent coming from you, so I think I would have been fine."
"What are you, psychic?" Kai scrunched up his nose.
"My Grams used to say I was and there are times where I could literally sense things from around people. Feelings, thoughts…" He blinked at her and she shrugged. "It's not a skill I've perfected yet. But I still possess it."
The more he learned about her, the more he fell in love. "You Bennett women, I swear…"
She poked a finger into the center of his chest. "Yeah, so you better watch what you're thinking, Kai. I'll know about it eventually."
"Duly noted."
Kai shrugged out of his jacket, letting it rest along the back of one of the chairs nearby before scooping her up again and plopping them both onto the bed. Bonnie laughed as he tried to tickle her with kisses along her face and neck before she was finally able to shove him back a measure.
"So," she said, lacing her fingers through his, "how did the meeting go?"
He wanted to forget it all. Kai wanted to smother Bonnie with kisses and discuss other things. More pleasurable things, something other than this meeting. He sighed as his eyes lowered, he squeezed her hands tightly. "Right, the meeting." A deep exhale as he braced his head on an upturned palm.
"We might be in some trouble, Bon." His gaze darkened as he continued. "In the two years since I became coven leader, there were some things that weren't exactly explained to me. Like, the fact I need to delegate and kiss the ass of the minor covens."
His brow furrowed as he decided to sit up instead. "Apparently my time is up." He offered an uneasy smile. "...I need to start attending to Coven leader duties."
Bonnie sat up with him, still holding his hand and giving it a slight squeeze. "What does that mean?" He could tell she was trying not to frown, but Kai knew her faces well enough at this point. She wasn't as guarded with him. Not like how she used to be.
It was hard to hide anything from her. They had been so open with each other over the years, that they could fool others. But they couldn't fool one another. Damn did he miss that ability. "It means that I'm going to need to probably leave town for a few days. I need to meet with these lower covens scattered on the West Coast."
He grabbed her other hand and sighed deeply, his shoulders dropping as he paused. Kai took a deep breath, holding onto her hands tightly. "And I'm going to have to do it with Andrea Manfred. Because she is being groomed to be the next head of the Manfred Family."
Bonnie's grip tightened and then, suddenly, the green in her eyes seemed to darken as her worried expression melted into one of anger. "Are you...are you fucking…" She was barely able to get the words out, her anger causing her shoulders to shake. "Are you fucking serious right now?!"
Letting out a growl of frustration, Bonnie pulled her hands from Kai's and made to climb out of the bed. "Shitty timing my ass. This is a set-up!" She tugged at the shoulder of her sweatshirt that had fallen, revealing the skin there before storming out of the bedroom.
Malachai Parker had learned to fear nothing in the first span of his life. He had no need of it; fear. Because he was smart, possessed a wealth of knowledge, and cunning. He figured out the direction for anything that would get in his path.
But now? He had everything to lose and she just walked out of the bedroom door. "Alright, Luce. I could use some of that patience now." He mumbled under his breath before following Bonnie. He knew he had to let her steam and whistle like a kettle before making a case.
"Bon!" He skittered down the stairs as the sound of a bottle hitting a glass reached him. A rush of liquid filling that glass. "Bonnie." Kai approached as she raised the glass of bourbon to her lips. She didn't spare him a single glance and he felt he deserved it.
"Yes, Bonnie. It is a set-up. Brought on, I'm sure, by your future appearance at Andrea's workplace. Also, because I'm sure they're aware we're engaged. Word spreads fast in Gemini territory. But, Bonnie..." He reached for her shoulders when she set the glass down. "They're not lying, unfortunately. I wasn't aware of all this shit on the books. My father was supposed to be handling that and apparently, he didn't. I..." Kai sighed softly. "I have to go. The reason I became Coven leader was to keep you safe. And if I don't handle these matters? You won't be."
Before his hands could touch her, however, she jerked away and took a step back. Bonnie continued to look away from him, her fingers curling even tighter around the glass. "Two years…" Her eyes narrowed before she grabbed the bottle again and poured herself another drink. "You became Coven leader because that was what you were supposed to be. You did The Merge and that's when it became a fact. It wasn't about me."
Something seemed to pass over her expression. Kai could see it starting to settle onto her brow. It was that moment when Bonnie seemed to recall something and was getting further away from her. To a place he couldn't reach.
"You shouldn't have been worrying about me. I was so focused on school, Kai. The Gemini would have left me alone and it's not like I had the drama from Mystic Falls trailing behind me anymore. I...I didn't need protecting!" Bonnie slammed the glass down on the counter, cutting her eyes at him finally. "See? Didn't I tell you this would happen? Everything is fine. Things are going well...and then it all goes to shit!"
"You don't know that, Bonnie!" He managed to keep his voice level as she pulled away from him. "I know you were focused on school. I know you were focused on trying to rebuild your life. I kno-..." He put up his hands as he took a deep breath. "Look, I don't like it any more than you do. But, you're not the only one in shock here. Don't you think this is something they could have told me when I got the mantle? They kept this from me, Bon. You say they would have left you alone? Do you know my father congratulated me on my engagement - just a few days after I proposed?"
Bonnie opened her mouth like she was about to say something, but seemed to change her mind and frowned instead. His brow furrowed as his fingers slid through his hair.
"They've been watching us, Bonnie! Waiting to see if this was just a fling! Waiting for the moment for you to leave! Or for all we know, trying to figure a way to get you out sooner."
"But that's what they want!" Her eyes narrowed further and she bit her lower lip. "This is just the beginning. It'll get worse, just wait." Kai watched her eyes starting to shimmer, turning glassy and it was only then he realized that she was holding back tears. "This is the same woman who I'm going to be working with soon. The same woman who they've been trying to get to turn your head since you came here."
He slid forward to grab her by the shoulders, holding her firm. "This is just a minor roadblock. You act like I'm leaving you for her. Things have not gone to shit. They are annoying, yes. They are inconvenient, even better description. Things are not shit yet, Bon. We are far from shit and we will not let them come between us. I didn't let them before - I won't let them now."
"You don't know that!" She threw his own words back at him. "I can only disengage myself from Gemini affairs for so long before they do, in fact, get between us, Kai!" She averted her gaze. "And before you say it, I trust you. It's everyone else I don't trust."
"I do know that, Bonnie. If you say you trust me, then trust what I'm telling you. I will not let the Gemini get between us. I'll play along for the moment. I need to garner the support of these lower covens. It's how I can get rid of my father and the Manfreds, two birds - one stone."
"Whatever..."
He grit his teeth as she averted her gaze.
"Bonnie, I want you at my side. Period. I want to make it so that the old guard, these outdated politics, are eradicated. I want you with me in the Gemini, eventually." Kai spied the spark of aggravation glinting in her green eyes and took a beat to rearrange his words. "I want to carve a place where you, and other witches that have been ostracized or mistreated by the Gemini, are welcomed. Where the Coven is actually a family like it's supposed to be. Not this…" He swung an arm toward the front of the house.
"Not these politics, arranged marriages, and power plays. There's so much more to being a Witch than what we are now. It's going to be a rough go, yes." He grabbed her hand, the one with the engagement ring, and held it up between them. "For better or worse, Bon. We've made it through so much before this. Trust me when I say we'll get through this."
There was a moment when Bonnie seemed to be processing what he was saying. Mulling over her thoughts and trying to put it all together. Again, she was going to that place that seemed far away from him. A place he hadn't been able to reach. Yet.
Finally, she sighed and moved in to close the distance between them. Her arms wrapped around his body, fingers digging into the meat of his shoulder blades and also his lower back. Bonnie took a long, deep breath - so deep he could feel it against the fabric of his shirt.
"...I'm sorry," she murmured. "I'm just scared. This is new to me. Coven business and all that. It doesn't help that everyone has pretty much made their stance known when it comes to us…"
There was a tension in his muscles until she dug her fingers in. It was like the release valve on a pressure cooker. He relaxed under the dig of her hands, the heat of her body, was all he needed. Kai let his chin rest atop Bonnie's head.
"I didn't think about this being something that could be used against me. I thought I had a perfect plan. But, every perfect plan eventually will reveal a flaw." He frowned pressing his lips against the crown of her head.
"But, it's going to take more than a forced vacation to break us, Bonster. You should know that. I worked too hard, stalked you too long to let this just fizzle." He pulled away letting his hands frame and lift her face to his own.
"Don't worry. Another plan is forming." His thumbs slid against the satin of her cheek as he smiled. "...and by the time I'm done? Andrea Manfred will either make a good assistant or she'll go running for the hills every time I enter the building." He gave that lopsided smirk. "Either way? We got this."
AN: And here we are, once again. I know it's been awhile and I apologize. Now that Nano is done I can get back to focusing on this. I am so happy for all the love and encouragement that everyone has given me. You guys are seriously the best! I wouldn't have made it this far without you, Bonkamily, and we are still going strong after so many years. Seriously, you guys freaking rock. This story will continue to progress along as best as I am able and then we will be at the end of it before you know it. So just be patient with me guys. Things are afoot - naughty and devious things! Don't forget to leave a review and follow for more updates! See you in the next chapter my lovelies! MUAH!