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I apologize for getting this out so late. I had exams to study for and then my Mac broke down so I couldn't access a laptop and write, but fortunately I'm back :D
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Chapter 9: Conflicts and Revelations
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"The feelings that go the deepest are often the hardest to express"
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"Nik, let's take a break," the younger Mikaelson drawled plopping himself on a rock.
"Stop being such a wuss," the hybrid chided.
"It's been over two fucking weeks Nik. We've tried turning more than a dozen werewolves already. It doesn't seem to be working so let's just take a break, for God's sake."
"We'll just keep trying."
"Far out Nik. I didn't sign up for this mad mission. You practically dragged me with you. I couldn't care less really," Kol groaned. His lovely brother had basically forced him on this nuisance of a trip to seek for werewolves to be turned into hybrids. He had enjoyed the thrill of the hunt in the beginning, but it was now turning into a burden. It was obvious from their previous fails that despite the curse being broken, Klaus still didn't have the ability to turn others into hybrids.
"Kol, if you don't stop whining I swear I won't hesitate to rip out your tongue for some peace and quiet!" The hybrid roared in frustration.
Klaus had been equally frustrated with his failed attempts. He had no idea what was wrong though. He broke his curse; he should be able to make hybrids! Something must be wrong, though he couldn't figure out what! Each time he fed them his blood and snapped their necks, the werewolf would wake up only to moments later start bleeding from the eyes and eventually die in pain from blood loss or become rabid for some unknown reason.
"I don't understand why it's not working. I fed them my blood, they should be able to survive the transition," Klaus kicked the dead body of his eighteenth failed attempt. It should have worked; he had followed all the steps yet it was evidently not turning out the way he wanted.
"I know you're on this ridiculous trip just to avoid your pretty little blonde wife. I get that you guys had a fight so let's just go back and you can apologize and make things all right."
"Shut up Kol. You have no idea what you're talking about. Now, if you could please make yourself a tad useful and help me with this body."
The younger Mikaelson remained unmoving from his stance. "Come on Nik. Let's go back. We're in the middle of nowhere, I want to go back and have a proper meal."
"There's no rush for that and besides we're not in the middle of nowhere, we're in Southern England. Besides, you've been having your share of fun," the hybrid replied pointedly.
"Just give up Nik. It's not going to work. Why don't we go back and consult a witch to see what's the problem?" Kol suggested. The Original was sick of this impromptu trip with his brother. Nik had been grouchy and unpleasant throughout the past fortnight and he didn't have the energy to combat with the hybrid's temper or tantrum any longer. "Besides, I really think you need to work out your issues with Caroline," he added.
"You know nothing about my relationship with Caroline, so stop acting like you do," he growled in warning.
Kol wasn't one to back down though. "It's bloody obvious you care deeply for the girl. I would even go as far to say that you're in love with her."
Klaus eyes flashed on his younger brother. "That's ridiculous!"
"You don't have to put up a front for me Nik. I know most of the time I act like I don't care, but I do. I see the way you look at her and I have no doubt that you feel something for her. It's alright to feel brother."
"I'm not putting up with this," Klaus replied in denial. It was bad enough Rebekah had figured out his true feelings, he didn't need a pep talk from his baby brother too.
"Fine then. Be that way. I'm done playing nice when you've been moping around for the past two weeks. You can do what you like with your hybrid problem, I'm out," Kol huffed standing up.
"Kol," he gritted his teeth.
"We need a witch before we try anything else. At this rate, we wouldn't have a werewolf to experiment on," Kol replied in exasperation.
"Alright, let's get us a witch," Klaus agreed albeit reluctantly.
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Regardless of her current conflicted feelings for her husband, she still felt the loneliness of sleeping alone. She knew it was stupid, but after spending the past few weeks with a warm, well- muscled body next to her, she couldn't help but feel the emptiness.
It had been exactly twenty days since she last saw him. He had left her. She couldn't believe it at first but it was true. There wasn't even a note. The daunting realization that what they shared was over ate at her every time she went to bed. Caroline had hoped they could work out their conflicts but apparently Klaus didn't felt the need to. She found out through Rebekah on the second day they were back in the castle that he was gone. He had left with Kol on some trip.
The female Mikaelson had tried explaining to her of her brother's actions, but Caroline didn't want her explanation, she wanted an explanation from the hybrid himself. She was upset that he didn't have the courtesy to tell her of his plans. She obviously didn't mean much to him for him to leave without a word.
Their last encounter kept replaying in her mind. She regretted the way she practically screamed at him to leave her alone when he was only trying to explain himself. Stop doing this to yourself Care! Why would you continue to yearn for him when you know that he doesn't feel the same way? You need to snap out of this!
The Scottish princess was beyond grateful when her mother paid her with a surprise visit that afternoon. She really needed the distraction from letting her thoughts run wild.
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"Mother, what are you doing here?" Caroline greeted her mother as the queen of Scotland exited her carriage.
"Darling, you're looking even more beautiful by the day," Elizabeth Forbes smiled taking her in a warm embrace.
"I've missed you," the princess murmured. "Where's father?"
"He's in Scotland. A close friend invited me to a charity ball here in England and I thought I would stop by and see my gorgeous daughter."
"Will you be staying?"
"Just a couple of days or so. I hope that's okay with you and the king."
"Of course you'll be staying here," Caroline smiled then added, "Klaus is away but I'm sure he won't mind."
The Scottish queen immediately sensed the change in her daughter's demeanor when she spoke of the king and she made a mental note to question her daughter later.
"Come mother." The young queen instructed two servants to help with her mother's belongings before leading the way.
"How are you my dear? I heard that you visited France a few weeks ago."
"I did mother. It was a lovely experience being on a boat and all. King Enzo was very kind to me as well," Caroline replied.
"What about you? Have you been feeling well lately? Any signs of symptoms?"
Caroline immediately caught on to what her mother was trying to imply. "I'm not with child mother."
"Are you even trying Caroline?"
"Mother please don't start this."
"Caroline, this is important! Are you even trying to get the king's attention? I don't think your father can stand the humiliation if he finds out that the king will have a bastard conceived by another and not a legitimate child from you," Elizabeth told her solemnly.
"Mother I'm the queen not just some child bearing whore for the king!"
"I know sweetie, but how long do you think it'll last if you don't produce him an heir? Have you forgotten the reign of King Henry Viii so quickly?"
"Of course not."
"I just don't want to see you being treated with anything less than you deserved. You are of royal blood and you should be treated as one. I'm afraid people might forget if you don't carry his child."
"Mummy, I'll take care of it."
"How my dear child? Is he still interested in you? Are you still laying with him? Why did he leave without you?"
"Mother, I'm going to tell you something and you have to promise not to freak out okay?" Caroline was done pretending. She wanted her mother to know the truth, as she didn't want to continue with the conversation any longer. It would be better to let her parents know the truth now than think there was something wrong with her. The guilt of lying to her mother was eating her up.
"What is it?" The queen asked calmly.
"I will not produce an heir for England," she said softly.
"Caroline, what are you saying?" Elizabeth Forbes frowned at her confession. Both her daughter and the king were young, there shouldn't be a problem in that department.
"Mother please, Klaus is not human. You know the stories you told me when I was younger and the rumors that the English family are v..vampires?"
The Scottish queen nodded hesitantly.
"It's true mother. The English royal family are vampires."
Liz frowned at her daughter's explanation. It wasn't possible. Vampires were not supposed to exist. "Are you saying what I think you're saying?"
Caroline gave a slight nod, "Klaus is a vampire."
What have they done? They had sent their daughter into a lion's dent. "I'm so sorry my dear," Elizabeth said trying to keep her emotions in. "Has he hurt you? Oh My God, this is my fault."
"It's okay mother, I'm fine. Klaus treats me well."
"I don't believe you. Vampires are monsters sweetie." She scanned her daughter's face and any exposed skin trying to look for any signs to confirm her suspicions.
"I'm fine mother, seriously. I didn't tell you for you to freak out. I just want you to understand that Klaus doesn't expect a child from me and I hope that now that you know the truth, you can stop asking me as well. Vampires can't procreate."
"Even if they could, I don't want you to carry that demon's spawn," Elizabeth bit out. How could she have missed this?
"He might be a vampire but he treats me well. Even his siblings are nice to me," Caroline offered as reassurance seeing her mother's worried expression.
"Oh Caroline, you're too kind for your own good as always."
"I'm not bluffing mother. Klaus takes really good care of me. He's thoughtful, patient and considerate with me."
"Have you fallen for him?"
Caroline looked down at her feet, avoiding her mother's penetrating gaze. Were her feelings for him that obvious? Even when she held conflicted emotions toward her husband, a part of her still loves him.
"Yes, I fell for him," she said in all honesty. It was at that very moment that she realized she wanted a life with him, even if it meant being turned to a vampire. She wanted to work things out between them as she couldn't picture a life without him. She wanted him to feel the same way. Needed him to love her in the same way she had realized she loved him. Completely. Irrevocably.
"Oh honey," Liz gazed at her daughter tenderly. She had prayed for her daughter's happiness, hoping she would find love and happiness in this promised marriage but that was when she thought Niklaus was human. Now that she knows he is a blood-sucking monster, she wanted her daughter free of him.
"I know he feels something for me too mother," Caroline explained needing her mother to understand it wasn't her one sided affection.
"Caroline, it's not safe," Elizabeth tried.
"Of course it is. He keeps me safe!"
"Honey, he's a bloodsucking monster. Monsters can't love. He's a predator and you're the prey…"
Caroline was fuming at her mother's ignorance and complete disregard of her feelings. "How could you even say that when you were the one who practically forced me down this marriage! I thought you'd be happy that I finally grew to love him. Would you rather me live the rest of my life in an unhappy and loveless marriage?"
"Caroline," Liz raised her voice disapprovingly. Sure she had told her daughter that she'll learn to love her husband sooner or later like she did with Bill however, it didn't apply when the man was not even human. "Not when he's a freaking vampire!"
"I can't believe you mother!" The blonde stood up defensively. "You have no idea what we've been through together."
"Listen to me sweetie," Liz tried to placate her daughter. Instead it had the opposite effect.
"Let's just not talk about it," the blonde snapped.
"I'm only trying to look out for you."
"I know that. You might think he's bad for me but I can't just magically undo what I feel for him. I've fallen in love with him, both the man and the beast."
"Caroline, I don't think.."
"Please mummy," Caroline cut her mother off. "This is my life and it should be my choice!"
Liz wanted to argue, she desperately wanted to try and change her daughter's mind. However, she also knew how stubborn her daughter could be and it was quite evident that she wasn't going to back down regardless of what she had to say.
"I'm happy here mother. With him."
"How can you expect me to approve of this Caroline? How on earth am I going to know you are safe!"
"He's not going to kill me," she answered back without a doubt.
"How can you be so certain about that?" Liz Forbes cried in exasperation. Her daughter was smart; she knew the dangers of the supernatural species. What had the monster done to her daughter that would result her into thinking that she was safe with him? "He's brainwashed you." It was the only explanation.
"He did not brainwash me mother. Please, just drop it would you. If I knew you were going to make such a big deal of this, I would never have told you."
"How can you say that? I'm your mother. You should know that I only ever want you to be happy!"
Her mother's tone had gone from worry to hysterical to angry to tears. She hadn't meant to snap at her mother. "I'm sorry mummy," Caroline apologized quickly feeling herself ridden with guilt. She knew her mother only wanted what was best for her.
"No, I can't process this now. I should go," Liz stood up shakily.
"Mummy, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to raise my voice at you," Caroline whimpered.
"I'm going to get some rest," Liz turned to look at her daughter tiredly before leaving for her own chambers.
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"Hey Care, dinner is ready," Bonnie gently knocked on the door to the young queen's chamber.
"Come in," she heard a muffled reply.
"Prince Kol and Princess Rebekah are waiting for you."
"Bonnie," Caroline said in a broken sob.
"What's wrong?" Bonnie swiftly made her way to her friend's side. "Are you hurt?" The blonde looked as if she'd been crying for hours on end.
Caroline's eyes were red and puffy. "My heart hurts," she managed to croak out.
"What's the matter?" Bonnie sat beside her friend with concern.
"My mother hates me," she broke down in hysterics. "I told her that I love Klaus despite the fact that he's a vampire and she freaked out."
"The queen doesn't hate you," Bonnie tried. "She's your mother and she clearly loves you Care."
"Not anymore. She looked horrified and disappointed with me. I'm such a useless daughter."
"Hey, don't say that. You're an amazing daughter. The king and queen are lucky to have you."
"You're wrong Bonnie. My mother is right to be disappointed with me."
"Caroli.."
"No Bonnie," the young queen cut her friend off. "I'm so naïve to believe he could love. It's my entire fault. I was stupid to think he felt the same way. Look at what a mess I've turned into. I've fallen for him and he doesn't even love me back."
"Oh Care, I'm sure that's not true."
"It is Bonnie," she said. "I thought our time together meant something to him, that I meant something to him. It was clearly my fault that I was so delusional. I should have known it was too good to be true. I gave myself to him and now he doesn't want me anymore. He only saw me as a warm body. I'm so stupid to think it was more," she said in a broken whisper.
"Did he actually say that?"
"He didn't have to. He shunned me away the morning after and I could see it in his eyes that he regretted sleeping with me. I honestly should have seen it coming. He had been with so many women that I must have been his worst bed partner. He wouldn't have picked me by choice. I'm only a sexual outlet to him, a person to turn to for means of release and now that he's had me, he doesn't want anything to do with me. He left without even telling me you know and he's been avoiding me since then."
"Oh Caroline, don't cry." The Duchess of Brittany didn't know what to say to comfort her.
"What am I going to do Bon?"
Bonnie placed her hand on Caroline's squeezing it, "We'll figure this out."
"I just want to forget everything that's happen. Maybe that way I won't feel the pain."
"Don't say that Care."
"I've just been so confused, a part of me wants him to apologize because I still love him yet another part of me just wish I could wake up with amnesia and forget the way he makes me feel."
"You're going to be fine," Bonnie tried to convince the blonde.
"How can you be so sure? I'm not fine at all."
"I just am," the young witch said.
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Three days later~
"Thank heavens you're back!" Rebekah shouted anxiously.
"What's got your panties in a twist Bekah?" Kol teased jumping off his horse.
The princess ignored him running towards the other Mikaelson. "Hurry up!"
"What's wrong darling sister?" Klaus asked with a hint of concern seeing his distraught sister.
"I'll explain while we walk."
Klaus immediately hopped off his own horse to follow his sister. "What's wrong? Was there an attack?" The king asked looking around his palace for any sign of a fight.
"It's not that, it's Caroline."
"Something happened to our favorite blonde?" Kol asked with amusement as he kept up with the duo.
"Her mother is here and they're returning to Scotland in a few."
"What are you talking about?" Klaus asked confused.
"I don't know the exact details but she's accompanying her mother back to Scotland."
"That can't be right, she can't do that. We're married, she can't just skip town without my permission," Klaus growled with disbelief.
"I don't think the Scottish kingdom even gives a damn. The queen is adamant on bringing Caroline back with her regardless if it starts a war."
"I don't believe this. Are you sure you heard right?"
"I'm not daft Nik. I know what I heard though I'm not certain how long she's going for. You really need to work out your issues with her now as I only see it getting worse from here."
"Where is she?"
"In her chambers I.."
Klaus dashed off immediately not even bothering to hear the rest.
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He hurriedly went into his chambers and roughly opened the adjoining door to hers. He felt rage boiling inside him as he saw her packing her belongings, her back facing him.
"What the hell do you think you're doing?" he roared. Three strides and he was towering over her.
"Klaus," she drew a sharp breath at his sudden presence.
"What the bloody hell is this?"
She stiffened; surprise-giving way to anger that flushed her delicate features with color, her blue eyes snapping. "I'm packing."
"Packing? What the bloody hell do you mean by that? Is this some kind of a joke?"
Caroline turned to stare at him, all her pent- up frustration and anger burst forth. "No, it's not a joke. Now, if you'll please get out of my way."
"You're not leaving," he snapped. "Where do you think you're going? How dare you leave without my approval?" He grabbed her wrist for her attention.
"Let go of me," she shouted. "Your approval," she scoffed. Who the hell did he think he was? "I fail to see what concern that is of yours," she hissed.
"Are you out of your goddamn mind? You're my wife, the queen of England. You can't just pack your stuff and leave without a second thought!"
"I don't take orders from you," she shot back, piling her dresses into the half- filled trunk. "Besides it's only for a short while."
"I don't give a fuck. I won't allow this."
"Well, I don't care. I'm not your possession Niklaus. Besides, I don't see why you're against this. You should be overjoyed to have me out of your way, I'm doing you a favor here. Now you won't have to feel sorry for me when you shag up with your whores and you don't even have to go out of your way to avoid me. Isn't my absence what you wanted?"
"Enough!" He bellowed loud enough to make the castle walls rattle. How could she think that he wanted her out of his life? He left because she didn't want to see him. It was all for her.
"You don't have the right to tell me what I can or can't do," she told him hotly, fingers curled into fists are her sides. How dare he burst into her chambers and tell her what to do when he was the one who left her.
"You're not leaving here," he said with finality.
"Watch me," she bit back placing more items into her trunk.
"For the love of God, Caroline, don't make me do anything I'll regret," he said lowly.
"I've bloody had enough of your violent mood swings. Just leave me alone! Why the hell do you care anyway? It's obvious you don't want me here, so I'll do you a favor." She wasn't ready to face him especially not his bi-polar personality.
"You're not leaving this palace, so don't even think of trying."
"You can't keep me against my will. My mother will never allow you."
"Don't worry love. I can easily change the queen's mind," he said with a smirk.
Her blood ran cold at his words. "What are you saying? Don't you dare hurt my mother, I mean it. Leave her out of this."
"I don't have to if you listen to me and be a good princess."
She huffed and looked at him with contempt. How dare he used her mother against her? She couldn't believe quite believe he just threatened her. "Why are you doing this?" She sighed in defeat. She didn't want to argue with him. She was tired and just wanted some time away from England and anything that would remind her of him.
"You can't just leave the kingdom even if you hate me. Besides, what would our subjects or my enemies think if you walk out of here? They'll think I'm weak and I won't stand that."
She should have seen it coming.
"Of course this is about your pride and your reputation, I'm so stupid to think otherwise," she chuckled dryly. "I thought you were stopping me because you still…never mind," she finished in a cold and flat tone.
"Go on." What had she wanted to say?
"Nothing, forget I said anything," she whispered, deflated. She should have known better then get her hopes up again, her heart ached badly enough.
The air was so thick with tension between the pair, both not willing to give in due to their stubborn personalities. The challenging stares battled against each other heatedly until she looked away.
"If you really want to return to Scotland, you may go on one condition," he said after a pause trying his best to meet her half way.
"What is it?"
"You'll let me accompany you."
"No," she said without a second thought. The trip was intended to mend her broken heart, not have it worsen.
"Then, you'll remain here," he told her flatly.
"Why can't I go by myself? I'm not some fragile doll that needs your protection."
"I won't risk it."
"Seriously, why don't you just leave again? I've been getting along just fine without you," she hissed.
"This conversation is over. It's not up for discussion!" He told her firmly. Deep down, the Original was afraid to let her go. He was afraid that once he let her leave, she wouldn't return.
"Please don't do this," she pleaded hoping she could try and persuade him.
"As long as I go with you," he said unrelenting.
"No, that is out of the question. My mother will not allow it."
"What the hell are you talking about? I'm your husband, why in the world would your mother be against me accompanying you?"
She bit her lips hesitantly gathering her courage. "I told her that you and your family are vampires," she said just above a whisper, afraid of his reaction.
"You did what? Why the hell did you do that?"
"I'm sorry..it's just my mum has been pushing me for a child and I couldn't stand letting her get her hopes up when it is impossible for me to get pregnant."
The Original didn't know how to respond to that. It had skipped his mind that the Scottish king and queen would be expecting her to be carrying his child. He had forgotten about those pesky human traditions.
"I just need some time to help her accept everything and it's best if I spent the next several days with her alone."
He felt a wave of relief run through him knowing that she had intended to return to him. He didn't know what he would have done if she were to leave and never return. He would most likely have forced her to remain by his side.
"Do you want children? The words slipped out of his mouth without much thought.
The blonde was taken aback at his unexpected question. "I guess so," she stammered looking at him weirdly. She couldn't figure out why he asked that when it was impossible for him to impregnate her. "I've never given much thought about it but I was brought up believing that it was my duty to bear a child for my husband especially because you are the king. Why do you ask?"
"Nothing, just curious."
"I accepted the fact that I won't be carrying an heir a long time ago, back when your mother arranged for Lord Donovan to try and impregnate me. I just think my mum might need a bit more time than me to accept the truth."
He nodded numbly.
"I won't be gone for long, just a few days. Besides, I think we both need some more time apart."
"Are you still mad at me?" He was becoming desperate for her to remain with him.
"I don't know Klaus. You hurt me and I can't just get over that in a few weeks," she replied in just above a whisper.
If it wasn't for his supernatural hybrid hearing, he might not have heard her.
"I never meant to. I know an apology does not suffice for what I've put you through, but I truly am sorry. Forgive me," he murmured feeling his heart constrict at the thought of losing her.
The memory rose in her mind, fragments of how he treated her the morning after they had consummated their marriage. She closed her eyes, forcing them away.
"It's partly my fault," she managed. "I shouldn't have gotten my hopes up. I was too naïve."
"No, my feelings for you are true. I never lied to you about how I feel," he tried, hating that he was the one responsible for the tears that were filling her captivating blue eyes. "Please love, let me make everything up to you."
Caroline could hear the sincerity in his apology. In that moment as she stared up at his face, she saw the man she had fell in love with, not the man who pushed her away or the one who frightened her.
"Forgive me," he said, his voice low, cajoling. "Please love..please…I'll do anything. I never meant to push you away or scare you, I was just angry that you lied to me."
She was at a loss. "What do you mean? I've never lied to you. You pushed me away without as much as a second thought." The recollection of how he pushed her away was still clear in her mind.
"Don't lie to me," he said in slight anger. How could she still be denying it? "I saw the bruises that I had left all over you. I hurt you yet you lied to me saying I didn't."
"Seriously, is that the reason you shunned me away?" She asked disbelievingly. She was finding it hard to believe that her measly bruises were what caused their fight.
"I hate liars," his voice harsh. "I don't care if you were trying to make me feel better, it was still wrong. I trusted you but you betrayed my trust." He still hadn't forgiven himself for causing her bruises. The image of her collarbone, her shoulders and her torso covered in dark bruises and the bite mark he left had never stopped replaying in his mind since that morning. It served as a constant reminder of her fragility, her ability to break at his slightest touch. It sickened him that he promised to protect her yet in the end, he was the one that hurt her.
"You're impossible!"
He really did have huge trust issues!
"I cannot believe you are mad at me for that," she bit out trying to calm herself from her bubbling anger.
She could see the guilt in his eyes, which was quickly replaced with anger.
"If you had left when I told you, it wouldn't have happened! Why did you have to been so stubborn damn it!"
"It's just a few bruises, it would have healed," she countered.
"I shouldn't have given in. It shouldn't have happened," he said, his tone bitter.
It was the final straw. She realized then that her worst nightmares were true.
"You regret our night together," she said unsteadily, the weight of the realization gradually dawning on her. She had held on to a tiny hope that it wasn't the case.
"It was a mistake. It shouldn't have happened especially not on the full moon," he exhaled heavily.
"You regret sleeping with me don't you? She asked barely a whisper.
"Yes, Caroline, I-" the Original attempted to explain before the young queen cut him off.
"You don't have to explain yourself. I always knew I was never good enough for you. You don't have to worry about me; I understand what you're trying to say. This marriage was doomed from the start anyways," she turned her back on him, closing her trunk. She needed to get away from him before the tears started pouring.
He grabbed her arm and pulled her into his chest. "Listen to me, love!"
"Let me go!" She yelled hitting his chest. What more did he want from her? Hadn't he said enough?
"Yes I regretted our night together but that's solely because I hurt you. It's most definitely not because of you, but what I've done to you," he said pressing his forehead against hers needing her to listen. "I promised I'd always keep you safe, but I'm the one that ended up hurting you."
The blonde was slightly lost for words. "You don't regret taking my virtue?" She asked needing to hear it from him.
"Of course not. Why would you think that? It was one of the best days of my life. Do you regret losing your virginity to me?" He asked, the vulnerable thought striking him.
She shook her head in response to his question. "No. I'm really glad it was you," she said quietly not able to meet his gaze.
Bringing both of his hands he cupped her chin, forcing her gaze to meet his. "Were you upset because you thought I regretted our night together?" He asked trying to piece everything together.
She nodded, "I didn't know what to think. You pushed me away and I just thought you regretted it. You couldn't even bare to look at me. It made sense as I was a naïve and inexperienced virgin…"
He cut her off, not able to continue hearing her self-doubt. "You were amazing sweetheart. I don't want to hear you doubting yourself over it. You were perfect," he said his voice warm and tender.
"Really?"
"Yes sweetheart."
"So, it was really all about the bruises?"
"It might seem insignificant to you but it really matters to me. I forgot how fragile you are as a human and should have been more careful. You are very much breakable love."
A low sob escaped from her relief swelling inside her. He didn't regret it. He still wanted her.
"Don't cry sweetheart." He wiped a couple of stray tears from her eyes with the pads of his thumbs. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you cry."
She tried to stop, but her tears started falling freely, bringing with them uncontrollable sobs. "I thought…I thought…you…"
"Ssh, ssh, don't cry," he said as he laid her head on his shoulder.
She clutched at his jerkin, letting her tears stained the velvet garment. He held her tightly. And her earlier unspoken question was answered. His grip remained gentle but solid.
"Don't cry love," he muttered kissing her forehead lightly, running a large hand over her wet cheeks.
She pressed her face against the crook of his neck, "I'm sorry…I just…"
"Ssh, it's alright," he murmured. He didn't care that she was ruining his new jerkin. He only wanted to see her happy.
Caroline found comfort in him, feeling sheltered in his arms. When her sobs finally started to die down, she inched back. A lone tear slid down her cheek, but Klaus brushed it away with his thumb before she could lift her hand.
"I love you and I'll wait for you to forgive me. I'll wait for you…however long it takes," he said with certainty.
"Klaus…I.."
His hand snaked out around her, pulling her until her chest flushed against his. "You'll love me again. You'll see, Caroline I promise you," he bent his head and kissed her temple.
She felt her throat close at his emotional confession. "I do love you. More than anything."
He smiled sadly, touching her cheek. "You're disappointed and upset with me, but I'll wait for your forgiveness. I'll never let anyone hurt you again especially not by me. Just give me a second chance."
Caroline knew the sincerity of his words and how difficult it must be for him. She sensed his fear of rejection and she had to convince him of her desire to be with him, but also her fears.
"I'm afraid," she admittedly softly. "That this is only a game to you. I don't think I can handle the heartbreak if you don't want me."
"Don't be. I'll never hurt you nor will I let anyone hurt you," he said quickly. "You're the one for me love. There will be no one else but you." He said staring at her intensely.
"But I.."
"Caroline sweetheart, you're it for me," he said slowly needing her to understand. "You have bewitched me, body and soul." The king leaned down and placed a feather light kiss on her cheek.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
"You may enter."
"You called for me, your majesty," the dark skinned woman curtsied.
"Bonnie right?" Klaus asked turning to face the young woman.
"Yes, your majesty"
"I want you to accompany Caroline and her mother on their trip," he ordered.
"Yes, I'll start packing right away."
"Good and witch," he stepped closer towards her. "You're in charge of her safety while she's at Leeds, if anything happens to her, you'll be meeting with the same fate."
"Caroline's my friend, I'll do anything to protect her," Bonnie snapped furiously.
"Glad we're on the same page."
"I don't appreciate your threats though."
"I'm sure you have heard of my reputation. It would be a wise decision not to get on my bad side," the Original warned.
"Of course," Bonnie grimaced not wanting to risk angering the hybrid or facing his wrath.
"Great now before you run along…take this with you."
The witch accepted the glass decanter with great care.
"It's my blood," he said stonily. "I want you to slip a small amount in each of her drinks in case anything happens."
"I don't think that's a…"
"I don't care what you think witch," Klaus intervened with an annoyed tone. "I'm doing what's best for my wife and I need you to just do as you're told." With that, the Original ignored the young witch and returned to reading his letters.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Leeds Castle, Kent
Two days later~
"Caroline, I thought we agreed on returning to Scotland?"
"I know mother but Klaus doesn't think it's safe."
The mother and daughter had finally arrived at the royal family's other vacant castle after travelling for a day and a half.
"He suggested we could spend our time here, away from the royal court." It was a tough compromise that she accepted it after a small argument.
"I would have assumed you wanted to visit your father," Liz said taking a seat in her new chambers.
"I want too but not right now. I just want to spend some quality time with you mummy. I've missed you," the young queen took a seat beside her mother.
"You've spoken to him?" Elizabeth asked not even bothering to cover her distain.
"We shared a few words," Caroline admitted. "He's really not what you think."
"Caroline.."
"Please mother, I don't want to argue with you while we are here," she interrupted before her mother could continue. She had a rough idea what her mother was about to say.
"There's nothing I can say to change your mind right?" The Scottish queen knew how stubborn her daughter was and it was quite clear it would be a lost cause.
"I don't think so. The heart wants what it wants."
"Fine, I'll try and accept that this is what you want even if it's not good for you," Liz agreed grudgingly.
"Vampires aren't really as bad as you make them out to be."
"That would be an understatement," the older blonde scoffed. "But I only care about your happiness. If you really want this, I won't take it away from you."
Caroline beamed at finally having her mother's approval and flung herself into her mother's small frame. "Thank you. Thank you!"
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Caroline had thoroughly enjoyed spending the past three days with her mother away from the royal court. The castle in Leeds was quiet due to the lack of people and events, it was different and she really felt relax in the new environment.
Sadly, her mother had to return to Scotland early that morning due to one of their annual Scottish festivals.
"I promise to visit soon," Caroline said embracing her mother.
"You take care alright. I'm always here if you need anything," Liz smiled pushing a stray curl out of her daughter's face.
"I love you mummy."
"I love you too my darling baby."
"If he tries to hurt you-"
"He won't," Caroline replied.
"Alright," the Scottish queen sighed taking one last look at her daughter before she boarded the carriage.
She was disappointed that her mother had to leave, she had really missed spending time with her mother since leaving her country. Caroline had always been close with her mother and being separated from her was one of the hardest things she had to endure.
The blonde was staying one extra night at the castle. It was one day to sort out her emotions and also to wait for her husband to retrieve her. One of the compromise she had agreed on was that he would be the one to accompany her back to London. She tried persuading him that it wasn't necessary, however he was adamant on the issue.
"I can very much travel alone," she told him.
"I know but that doesn't mean it's the best option."
"Seriously?" She rolled her eyes at his over- protectiveness.
"Yes, seriously," he teased. "It's dangerous out there and I'm just trying to protect you," he said his demeanor turning somber.
"Okay," she agreed believing his intentions were pure.
There wasn't anything she could have said for him to back down. She had hated this arrangement in the beginning but not anymore. She was genuinely excited to see him again. She had forgiven him the very day she left him and was more than ready to start making things work between them. She wanted to be a wife that he could rely upon, a partner that can make him content and satisfied both mentally and physically.
She wanted him to teach her the ways to please him particularly in the bedroom. She didn't want him sharing a bed with another woman, her pride wouldn't be able to handle it. She wanted to be responsible for his sexual needs and for them to share a bed together like a normal man and wife.
"You're in a very chirpy mood," Bonnie commented looking at her friend.
"I am," she hummed.
"I thought you would be a little sad seeing the queen leave," she asked looking ahead at Elizabeth's carriage being drawn away.
"I am sad that my mother has to leave."
"Why are you smiling then?"
"I'm just glad we managed to work things out."
"Are you sure you're not just ecstatic to meet a certain hybrid?" The dark hair beauty taunted.
Caroline laughed, "Is it obvious?"
"I told you everything would work out between you and the king."
"I know, you're the best Bon!" She giggled gleefully.
The blonde was thankful that Bonnie had accompanied her on this trip as she always felt comfortable having her best friend with her.
"I'm going to take a rest," she told her friend as they watched her mother's carriage disappear from their line of sight.
"Okay, I'll be in the kitchen helping with dinner if you need anything."
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
As she was climbing up the stairs to her bed chambers to rest, Caroline noticed a woman lurking around the top. "Can I help you?" She asked skeptically eyeing the suspicious woman.
The woman was dressed in black and she had a scarf wrapped around her head. Caroline tried looking around for guards as she could tell the woman was dangerous.
"Your Majesty," the woman greeted sardonically.
Caroline caught a glimpse of her face though she couldn't picture where she had seen her. Cautiously, the blonde continued up the stairs walking towards the woman in attempt to confront her.
"Hmmm, looks like you don't remember me," the ginger head woman smirked removing the scarf.
"What do you want?" Caroline stuttered nervously while looking around for help.
"Not to worry your majesty, you're just collateral damage."
"Who are you?"
"My name is Genevieve and I'm here to send your darling husband a message."
She looked at the woman perplexed moving further away from her self- consciously.
"You see, Niklaus requested a favor and I was naïve enough to help him. And guess how was I repaid, with a stab in the back," she mocked cornering the blonde menacingly.
"I..I..don't know what you want but I suggest you to leave…Help!" Caroline's shrill voice yelled for help.
"No one is going to hear your screams, your majesty," the witch grinned.
"Guards! Guards!" Caroline shouted louder. She was terrified. The crazy woman meant business. It was obvious she wanted her dead. "Get away from me. Help!"
"Don't worry. You won't feel the pain. It will be quick and painless," Genevieve chuckled. The witch found it amusing to have the almighty Original's weakness cowering in front of her. She was delighted to feel the amount of power she held over the little human.
"I'm sorry about what my husband did to you but you don't have to do this," Caroline tried.
Genevieve pushed the blonde against the edge of the massive stairway. "Sorry, but this is the only way I can send the message. Besides, you shouldn't take his side, he's a monster…they all are. He'll dispose of you the minute he renders you useless."
"Please don't do this," Caroline croaked trying to escape from her firm hold. The young queen was not ready to die. It was too soon. Why was this crazy woman doing this to her? "Please."
"Goodbye your majesty," she taunted and with a forceful push, the witch sent the young queen tumbling down the stairs.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Bonnie could tell something was off the instance she heard the ear- piercing scream. "Caroline," she shouted running towards the direction of the noise. She prayed nothing bad had befallen her friend.
"Oh My God," she screamed when her eyes caught sight of Caroline's body sprawled at the bottom of the stairs face down. She ran over to her body not wanting to believe it. "No, this can't be it," she touched her friend's face noting the way her neck twisted at an odd angle.
"No..No…No…God No.." Her best friend couldn't be dead. She couldn't accept it. She had only left the blonde alone for barely ten minutes. How was this possible? Who would even hurt the blonde? Her friend had the purest heart among everyone she knew. No one held a grudge towards her. She couldn't come to terms that someone with could hate her enough to push her down the stairs.
Guards and servants came filtering then and Bonnie knew she had to hide her body. She managed to move the blonde into one of the spare quarters and with much difficulty, she finally lifted the blonde on to the bed. "You poor thing," she cried holding Caroline's head in her lap and rocking back and forth.
Silent tears escaped her weary eyes as she held onto the blonde's cold and lifeless body. Her friend. Her best friend. A shudder racked through her whole body as her lungs jerked in little spasms of badly needed air. She found it hard to breath, the refusal to believe her death overpowering her body's reactions.
In spite of how much she tried to deny it, the truth was her best friend was dead. She could tell by her broken neck. Knowing that her best friend wasn't actually dead was the only comfort she got that prevented her from bursting to hysterics.
She had followed the hybrid's order and have been discreetly slipping his blood in her morning tea and in almost all her beverages. She knew Caroline would wake up as a vampire, but she was still devastated that it happened to her. The blonde was too innocent to be exposed to the monstrosity of vampirism.
"I'm so sorry Care. I should have protected you," Bonnie cried, her voice filled with guilt and sorrow.
She cried over the lost of her friend's human life, over the blonde's future and more. Memories of their childhood replayed in her mind causing more tears to flow freely. They were supposed to grow old together, marry a man they each love and then start a family. It was always their dream, but none of it was possible now.
It was dark when she finally managed to gather herself together after accepting the reality of it. The delicacy of the situation then became her primary concern. She knew the Original would be at the castle by dawn and she was fearful on how he would react to situation.
The hybrid had placed Caroline's wellbeing in her care. It was unmistakable she would be taking the blame for Caroline's death. The witch had heard rumors of hybrid's cruelty. She was worried that the same fate would befall on her due to her inability to keep her best friend safe. She was going to die. The king would never forgive her for not protecting his wife.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
"I don't understand why you're resolute on accompanying her back to the castle," Rebekah admonished while watching her favorite brother climbing onto his horse.
"Are you jealous, dear sister?" Klaus teased.
"I am not!" The English princess huffed trying to remain unaffected. The sad truth though was that she was indeed jealous of the blonde human. The Scottish princess had everything she ever wanted. A man that loves her, subjects that love her and even friends that she longed to have. She was envious of how perfect and easily Caroline had everything. The blonde even had her ruthless brother's full affections.
"It looks like jealousy to me," he smiled.
"Do what you want Nik," she scoffed turning her back to return to the castle. She was done being jealous of the other blonde. Since realizing the extent of her brother's feelings for Caroline, she had tried accepting her new sister.
"I'll see you soon Bekah!" The hybrid laughed hopping gracefully on his horse.
Klaus arrived at his Leed's castle at early dawn. The journey was shorter than he anticipated considering the hybrid had travelled without a rest.
"Your majesty, welcome home," a young guard bowed opening the gates.
"Good day, mate."
He took his time guiding his favorite black stallion to the stable before he dismounted.
"Your majesty," the stable boy greeted before the wooden door.
"Take care of her would you," he instructed patting the animal.
"Aye, your majesty."
"Good." Klaus whirled, making his way out of the stable.
The castle was quiet, the sun barely up. He slowly headed towards the entrance of the estate, taking in the subtle changes of the place. The king had not been in this castle for over five years, not since Finn's death.
The castle held only miserable memories for him. It was the castle that his brother loss his life due to a fight. He still carried the guilt of being the lone survivor of the war. The remains of the bloodshed still played vividly in his mind.
He still couldn't figure out how the French managed to invade their land or how their leader Silas was in possession of the white oak stake. It was the only weapon that could kill an original. He had made sure the only two left in the world were in his possession; hence he was dumbfounded when Silas attacked them with it.
He was supposed to be distracting him while Finn tried grabbing the stake yet Silas managed to mess his mind and the French soldier used that opportunity to stab his brother right in the heart. He would never forget the look on Mikael's face when his father found out he had survived while his favorite son was dead.
A quiet creek of the door broke him from his reverie. His eyes caught the Bennett witch slipping out from a room.
"Where's Caroline?" He asked straightforwardly.
"Klaus," Bonnie gasped with fright. Shit! Why was he here already? Caroline was still not awake.
"What did you do?" He snarled catching the witch's nervous posture. "Where's Caroline?"
"Caro…Caroline…Caroline is…"
"Spit it out!"
Taking a deep breath, Bonnie mentally pushed herself to tell him. "Something happened last night."
"Is she hurt? Where is she?" Klaus asked anxiously trying to sniff out her scent. Caroline's scent lingered in the air and he knew she was near. He pushed past the witch heading into the room where she came from. His wolf senses could tell that his wife was behind those close doors.
"Klaus, please…" She hurriedly followed after the hybrid.
"What did you do?" He asked lowly not hearing a heartbeat from Caroline.
"She fell down the stairs last night and she broke her neck," Bonnie let out a strangled cry.
"Tell me you're joking! How did this happen witch? You promised you were going to keep her safe?" He growled eyes flashing yellow at the tiny witch.
"I don't know…I left her for barely ten minutes," she tried to explain. "But, I fed her your blood so she should wake up soon."
"As a vampire…" He trailed off trying to calm his anger. The relief knowing that Caroline wasn't actually dead was the only thing stopping him from killing the Bennett witch right then and there.
"I don't know how this could happen. Why would anyone do this to her?"
"To get back at me." That must be it. He was the one responsible for the blonde's death. There was no other reason why someone would even think of hurting the sweet and caring princess.
"If you don't mind me saying, my guess that a witch was responsible for this."
"Why is that?"
"Caroline would have yelled for help if she was in any danger yet I couldn't hear her screams for help. I think a silencing spell was cast to prevent anyone of us from hearing what happened between them. Do you have any idea which witch would do something so dreadful?"
He flashed towards her, his hand immediately going to her neck. "Make yourself useful and find me some human blood. Or I can't make any promises that I won't just kill you for this," he threatened sliding his fingers to the back of her neck. He was not going to just stand and hear her place the blame on him. This might have been his fault, but the witch could have tried harder to keep his blonde safe.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
When her eye lashes finally fluttered, Klaus held his breath. "Caroline," Klaus held her hand and immediately started checking on her.
"Klaus?" Caroline croaked feeling her throat burning like fire. Her neck ache tremendously and she couldn't help but groaned in pain. What happened?
"Caroline, can you hear me?" He asked worriedly helping the blonde sit up.
"Klaus I.." She tried wracking her brain to remember what had happened before her world went black.
"Can you remember anything?"
"I…I remember finding a woman…her name was…was…Genevieve..she said to send you a message," Caroline frowned trying to remember more.
"I'm gonna torture that witch until she begs for her death," Klaus roared clenching his fist together.
"Oh My God, she pushed me down the stairs," she exclaimed remembering. "How…How am I…I fell down the flight of stairs.." she inspected her body confusedly. Her body felt fine, no broken bones except for the itching sensation of her throat.
"Caroline love, I need you to take a deep breath."
"What's wrong?"
"You didn't survive the fall," Klaus said softly.
"What? I don't understand. I'm fine…"
"You died with a broken neck."
"But..I'm alive.."
"You had my blood in your system. You're in transition love."
She blinked, not understanding what he was telling her. "Transition?"
"To a vampire sweetheart."
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
T.B.C
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Until next time
xoxo
suzypyong
