A Year To Prove You Wrong
Chapter 9 – Part 2
Day Four Continued
Stefan and Damon walked into "One Eyed Jacks" together. Stefan's eyes immediately searched the room for the girl he was desperate to fix things with. He saw her on the dance floor, her face flushed and laughing, dancing with Bonnie and Enzo. His stomach clenched at the sight of her having fun with Enzo of all people.
He and his brother made their way over, a frown covering his face as he watched Enzo wrap his arms around Bonnie and Caroline. His fingers twitched beside him with the urge to rip Enzo's fingers off of her, so he clenched his fists to try and stop himself. He'd already hurt her once in his jealous anger, he didn't want to add a second time. He would surely lose her for good.
"Damon," Enzo smiled, "good to see you."
"Drinking without me, brother?" Damon shook his head, his usual smirk firmly in place, "I thought I was your drinking buddy?"
Stefan couldn't help but flinch as Damon used the word brother. That word meant something to him, he only had one person he would ever call that and that was Damon. His brother didn't share his own sacred use of the words, as he called Enzo that without thought. Every time he did, it killed him deep inside.
"You are. Usually." Enzo laughed, "But when two beautiful ladies offer their company. Well. You're the loser, mate."
"I can't exactly argue with that." Damon laughed, turning his gaze to Caroline, "I told you we would see each other again, Caroline."
Caroline rolled her eyes, "And I've been counting down the hours until that happened again, Mr Salvatore."
"Call me Damon." Damon winked.
Caroline wrinkled her nose, "I'll stick with Salvatore, thanks."
Stefan couldn't help smirking as Caroline once again shot Damon down. It only got bigger as he listened to the rest of their conversation. He wanted to laugh at his brother so hard right now but he was having too much fun watching Damon be rejected.
"Which Salvatore?" Damon grinned devilishly, "We could have so much fun."
"I'll not interested in your type of fun." Caroline shot back, narrowing her eyes.
"Well aren't you a looker." Damon held his hand out to Bonnie, "I don't believe we've had the pleasure. I'm Damon."
"Bonnie." Bonnie took his hand, smiling sweetly, "And I'm not interested."
Stefan couldn't hold it in any longer, he burst out laughing, Caroline and Enzo joining him in his mirth. He suddenly didn't regret asking his brother to come.
"I know when I'm not wanted." Damon turned to ask Enzo, "Fancy a drink, brother?"
"Sure." Enzo nodded, joining hands with Bonnie as he smiled at her, "Coming, beautiful?"
Bonnie smiled widely, "I'd love to."
Bonnie and Enzo followed Damon, their hands intertwined.
Stefan felt almost lightheaded in his relief as he watched them walk off. Enzo and Bonnie were holding hands, smiling flirtatiously at each other, like they were together. Caroline's words from earlier ran through his head again.
"Hopefully they'll be less flirting and more looking at the actual place."
She wasn't talking about herself and Enzo, she was commentating on Bonnie and Enzo. He recalled his harsh words to her and winced. He felt like the biggest asshole that ever lived. He hurt her in his jealousy, when there was no reason to be jealous in the first place. He needed to make it up to her.
He and Caroline were left standing awkwardly in the middle of the dance floor. Stefan shuffled uncomfortably in place, not even knowing where to start to make things right. He watched Caroline tuck a strand of hair behind her ear. He itched to do it himself.
"What are you doing here?" Caroline asked, "You knew I'd be here."
"My brother and I were in the neighborhood." Stefan shrugged, sticking his hands in his pockets, almost wincing at the lame excuse.
"At the same bar I just happened to be going to?" Caroline's tone suggested she didn't believe him.
"Coincidence." Was all Stefan could say, staring at each other in awkward silence.
Stefan saw as someone bumped into Caroline sending her straight into him, his hands automatically coming up to hold her hips to steady her. Her hands were pressed against his chest, the tip of her nose touching along his Adam's Apple, making him swallow and his heart to race uncontrollably in his chest. Feeling her pressed so temptingly close against his body sent his thoughts and feelings into overdrive.
Caroline pushed away, their eyes catching, her beautiful blue eyes swimming with desire, taking his breath away. He was so near to her that he could see the moment her eyes dropped to his lips, his heart beating faster in anticipation, wanting nothing more than to cover her lips with his, and finally know her taste. Her eyes returned to his, and they started to inch closer to one another.
Then there was a voice in the background, "Care."
Bonnie's voice pulled them both out of their lust induced trance. She gasped, taking a step away from him, her gaze dropping to the floor. Disappointment hit him instantly, his one chance to feel her lips against his gone.
"I-I'm gonna get a drink." Caroline stuttered before bolting to where Bonnie, Enzo, and Damon were at the bar.
Stefan followed her, unable to resist standing just behind her, as close as he would allow himself to be. They had almost kissed, and while the feelings behind it scared him he couldn't stop himself from wanting to be closer to her.
Bonnie gave Caroline her drink, which she drank in one. Eyes wide she asked, "Want another?"
Caroline shook her head, "How about we check out the other place?" She asked Enzo, "You're happy with this place right?"
"I am." Enzo answered.
"So we might as well check out the other place." Caroline replied.
Enzo looked to Bonnie, "You want to leave too, beautiful?"
"Sure." Bonnie replied, smiling up at Enzo, "Sounds good to me."
Stefan saw Caroline's shoulders lift and release; she must have sighed. He couldn't stop himself from leaning forward, breathing in her alluring scent, and whisper into the skin of her neck, "Enzo has the hots for your friend, huh?"
Caroline nodded.
"My..." Stefan chuckled, wanting to spread kisses across that tempting throat, "What a little matchmaker you are, Ms Forbes."
He couldn't help but chuckle as he saw her pull Bonnie with her as she ran outside.
At "House Of Blues," Stefan stood at the bar, nursing his drink as his eyes followed Caroline as she walked arm in arm with Enzo. His glare followed them around the room, intensifying when Enzo made her laugh, her beautiful face lit up with amusement.
Their eyes met across the crowded room, the grin slipping from her face immediately. Eyes still locked she downed her drink, Stefan following her actions. He ordered two more drinks, and made his way across the room. Like a moth to a flame he was drawn to her.
Later on that night, after many drinks shared between them, his arm naturally falling around her waist, the urge to never let her go hit him, so he didn't. He stayed by her, keeping her close to his side, even draping himself across her back. He was lost in her scent, and the feel of her against him.
He couldn't remember whether it was him or her, but they soon found themselves on the dancefloor. Her arms curled around his neck, as he wrapped his own around her slender waist, their eyes locked together in a heated dance of their own. They swayed together, her breasts pushed against his chest making his breath catch, his fingers clutching in the material of her dress. He dropped his head against hers, getting lost in her blue eyes, his nose brushing hers. He licked his lips, the urge to kiss her was so strong, and she was so tempting and gorgeous in his arms.
"I need another drink." Caroline suddenly giggled, her cheeks flushed with arousal, she spun around to try and make her escape.
Stefan had another plan. He took hold of her hand, pulling her so that she twirled back into his arms, only this time her back was to his chest, every part of them pressed against one another. He heard her breath catch, and he couldn't stop the smirk spreading across his face, so he buried it in her hair, breathing in her lovely scent. He held onto her hips as they moved together, getting completely lost in the feel of her.
After what felt like hours of them moving their bodies together, Caroline arched her back against him, grinding her ass against his crotch, making him hold back a groan as his fingers tightened on her hips. He nuzzled her neck, panting from the effort of holding back his urge to thrust against her toned ass, feeling her shudder made a grin curl his lips. He teased his lips up to her ear to whisper, "Minx."
Caroline chuckled, then he felt her hand curl around his neck to bring him closer, the other she slid down his arm to tangle their fingers together. Their hips still circling together. He smiled into her neck, brushing whisper soft kisses down her skin and across her shoulder, tightening his grip on her fingers as he pulled her even closer to him. He was not even hiding the evidence of his arousal anymore, the gasp she let out and the way she pushed back even further into him made him groan.
He slid his hand from her hip to slide over her stomach so that he was holding her in an embrace, rocking passionately against her, moans falling from both of them, her head tilting back to rest on his shoulder. His lips moved to her ear, breathing heavily against it, loving the shivers he could feel, smirking as he whispered seductively, "Drink, Ms Forbes?"
He heard her gasp, her fingers tightening over his briefly before she turned her head towards him, he could feel the smile on her lips brushing his jaw as she whispered, "Please, Mr Salvatore."
It was his turn to shiver, the sound of her husky voice making his member twitch in his pants. He growled in desire, wanting to spin her around and devour her lips, but he held back.
Their first kiss would not happen in the middle of a dancefloor while they were both drunk.
They didn't leave each other's side for the rest of the night. Dancing just shy of obscene on the dancefloor. Stefan could the feel the eyes of their companions on them but at this point he couldn't care less what anyone thought. He was lost in Caroline completely, both of them in a haze of desire.
He needed to cool things down, so he led her over to the bar, his arm wrapped securely around her back as she giggled against him. He smiled in affection at the sweet sound coming from her.
"I think someone is partied out." Damon chuckled as they reached the bar.
"I'll take her home." Bonnie offered.
"No!" Stefan almost shouted, before his tone warmed as he looked at Caroline, "No, you stay." He tightened his hold as he swept her into his arms, "I'll take her home."
He walked out, smiling as she snuggled against him, her hand against his chest as she fell asleep. He looked down at her, his heart skipping, her beautiful face looked so at home against him.
It was a sight he could get used to.
Stefan held Caroline in his arms as he reached the door to her apartment. He roused her enough to get her to give him her keys. He opened the door, walking inside, he made his way through until he found her bedroom. She nuzzled further into him, and he couldn't help but chuckle at how adorable she was.
He lowered her onto the bed, grinning as she grumbled at his removed presence. His heart warmed as he took a moment to gaze at her, wishing more than anything that he could slide in the other side and hold her close all night.
He couldn't. He shouldn't feel the way he does with her. He hasn't felt anything close to this since Valerie. It scared him.
He needed to go before he disregarded his fears and gave into his heart. Unable to resist, he bent over her, placing a tender kiss against her forehead, stroking the back of his hand down her soft cheek. She was so beautiful. He smiled as he pulled her cover over her.
He forced himself to leave her, taking one long last look at her as if to memorize the sight of her in a bed, before he left to go home.
The night had certainly taken an interesting turn.
Day Five
Stefan rolled over, burying his face into his pillow as he groaned. He shot his arm out to grab his phone from his drawer, he peered at the time through blurry eyes; 7am. He dropped his head back to the bed, he did not have the energy for a full day's work, and he was pretty sure neither would Caroline. He sent her a quick message.
No need to come in today. I'm giving us the day off. Enjoy your three day weekend, Ms Forbes.
He placed his phone back on the side, and snuggled back into his pillow to get a lay in.
By 9am, he was up and enjoying his morning coffee on his couch. He was wondering what to do today as he now had three days of relaxing ahead of him. Then his phone rang. He smiled as he saw it was Caroline and answered eagerly, "Hello?"
"It's Caroline." Caroline started, "I'm so sorry! I overslept and now I'm late and you're going to fire me after like five days."
"Ms Forbes." Stefan chuckled, finding her rambling utterly adorable, "I was there last night remember?"
"I remember." Caroline whispered.
"I gave you the day off today. I gave both of us the day off actually." Stefan replied, chuckling, "Did you not get my message?"
There was a brief pause, "I have now." Caroline chuckled, "Wait! If you are not at work, then how am I able to get through to you?"
"You have my personal cellphone number, Ms Forbes." Stefan was full of pleasure at that fact.
"Oh. Did you have a good time last night?"
"It was the most fun I'd had in a while... even if Enzo was there." Stefan smiled, before he lowered his voice, "What about you? Did you have fun, Ms Forbes?"
Caroline's voice was deeper, "From what I can remember and what I can't, I'm pretty positive that I had a good time."
"You did." Stefan chuckled, images from last night swimming behind his eyes. They had both had a very good time indeed.
"What time do you want me at work on Monday? Eight as usual?"
"Yes, bright and early as usual." Stefan smiled, "Prepare a file about the venues you found for Enzo as we will be discussing what to do next."
"Okay. See you on Monday, Mr Salvatore."
"See you Monday, Ms Forbes." Stefan replied, before hanging up.
Stefan had been enjoying just lazing around his apartment, doing a bit of cleaning, and sorting out his clothes. He didn't fancy cooking tonight so he ordered himself take out, eating on the couch as he watched a movie instead of at the table.
His phone rang, so he picked it up, "Hey."
"Hey, you." Lexi replied, "How are you since our last call?"
"I'm great. Really great." Stefan couldn't stop the smile from spreading across his lips as he thought about Caroline.
"Something's happened between you two, hasn't it?" Lexi asked, her voice smug.
Stefan remained silent, even though he knew that was as good as answering to Lexi.
"Tell me everything!" Lexi practically squealed.
"I kinda… gatecrashed her night out with her friend… and Enzo." Stefan's voice was hesitant.
"Uh huh." You could hear that Lexi's voice was amused.
"And then somehow we ended up dancing." Stefan paused, not knowing how to say what happened. So even though she couldn't see him, he slammed his eyes shut as he admitted, "It got pretty… hot. She ground her ass against me, and I was kissing her neck… and grinding right back."
"Stefan!" Lexi laughed, "Oh my god! You are so hot for her."
Stefan rolled his eyes, "I know my feelings."
"So…?"
"So what?" Stefan asked in confusion.
"Did you two kiss?" Lexi asked excited.
"No!" Stefan was shocked Lexi would even ask that, "I wouldn't take advantage of her like that." No matter how much he had wanted to.
"Now I really can't wait to meet her." Lexi sounded gleeful.
Stefan groaned into the phone, Lexi's laughter loud in his ear.
He was really dreading Lexi meeting Caroline.
Day Eight
Monday morning, Stefan arrived at the office, seeing Caroline sat behind her desk. He smiled warmly at her, "Good morning, Ms Forbes. How was your weekend?"
"Productive." Caroline smiled, "I cleaned my apartment and shopped."
"Next time..." Stefan bent his head, resisting the urge to shiver as he met her beautiful eyes, "I think we should lay off the alcohol somewhat."
Caroline laughed, her eyes brightening with her amusement, "You are right. I don't really remember drinking all that much but I guess I must have."
"Blame Damon, Enzo and me." Stefan shrugged, sticking his hand in his pockets, "We started drinking more than we should have, which is nothing new when Enzo and Damon are together."
Caroline giggled, walked toward his office door, "I'll remember that for next time."
"Who says there will be a next time?" Stefan smirked, walking closer so that he was beside her, reaching for the door handle, purposefully brushing against her arm, making his heart race, "Do you think that will be the only clients we attend to. Drink loving performers?"
Caroline tilted her head, grinning cheekily, "Definitely part of it." She stepped inside, walking over to his desk, bending over to place the file there, "You should come next time. It's your reputation."
Stefan caught his breath as his eyes were drawn to her pert ass, remembering the feeling of her wiggling it against his erection. He shuddered, quickly walking to his chair to move away from the alluring sight. He smirked, "We shall see next time, Ms Forbes." He took a sip, moaning at the taste, "Hot as always."
Caroline blushed, her face looking shocked.
It took a moment for Stefan to understand why she was blushing, when he did he had to resist the urge to smirk. She was unbelievably hot, the way she moved against him had raised his temperature through the roof, making him swell in his pants instantly. He had to cool down his thoughts so that something wouldn't rise again, he held up his cup, "The coffee. The coffee is hot as always."
"Just how you want it, Mr Salvatore." Caroline cleared her throat, her cheeks still red.
Stefan smirked, waiting for her to take a seat before he looked through the files, "Very good. Now you need to call and find out what dates they have available, and we can try and work them around all three."
"I'll get right on that." Caroline agreed.
"The social media competition will be held by a friend of mine who is one of the best out there. She will be here tomorrow, so it will be just me and her for most of the morning." Stefan told her, a smile on his face at spending the day with Lexi, he hoped she wouldn't tease him too much about Caroline but he's positive she will, "There is something else I want you to look into seeing as how well you did finding venues. Do you remember what we discussed at our business lunch?"
"Yes." Caroline nodded, "Niklaus Mikaelson's art show."
"Did Elijah e-mail you the list of names he wants there yet?" Stefan asked.
"I haven't checked my e-mails yet." Caroline quickly stood up, "I'll be right back." She briefly left, before coming back nodding her head, "I have got the e-mail from Mr Mikaelson."
"Good." Stefan thought for a moment before telling her, "Search for a venue for Klaus in between securing Enzo's venues."
"Of course, My Salvatore." Caroline smiled at him before she left his office.
Stefan had been so busy that the time had flown by. He looked up, his eyebrows raising as he noticed it was almost one. Caroline hadn't asked him what he wanted for lunch. Worried, he went to his door to check on her. A fond smile turned his lips as he noticed her busy, surrounded by bits of paper. He walked over to her, placing his hand on her shoulder startling her, she looked at him so he told her, "It's one."
Caroline's eyes widened, "Oh my god! I'm so sorry." She looked at her desk, "I completely lost track of time."
"I can't fault you this one time for getting lost in your work can I?" Stefan smiled affectionately at her, briefly covering her hand with his to give it a gentle squeeze, "I will go out for lunch today." He paused, looking off to the side as he asked hopefully, "Do you have your own lunch today?"
"I packed my own." Caroline replied.
Stefan was disappointed but he still smiled at her, "See you after lunch.". He went to the elevator, and couldn't help shouting back at her, "No working during your break, Ms Forbes!"
He saw Caroline giggling, raising her hands to cover her mouth. It was so cute that the smile was on his lips before he even realized it.
When he got back from lunch Caroline was back in her mounds of paperwork, he only raised his eyebrow at her.
She held her hands up, "I did no work during lunch. Promise."
Stefan smiled, "Don't work too hard, Ms Forbes."
He could hear Caroline giggling as he headed back in his office, shaking his head at how adorable she was. She had to be one of the kindest and happiest people he'd ever met. She certainly brightened up his monotonous existence.
There was a knock, he called them in, seeing it was Caroline he gave her an amused look, "Finally came out from your mounds of paper?"
"Yes, and I have the dates." Caroline chuckled, walking over to place them on his desk, "I checked with Enzo these dates are perfect for him. I called all the venues, and we can have all three spots on those days, we just need to leave a deposit by no later than the end of the week."
"Great work." Stefan was impressed. He checked the time, it was almost five, so he told Caroline, "You can go."
"Thank you, Mr Salvatore. Goodnight." Caroline smiled.
"Goodnight, Ms Forbes." Stefan smiled, sighing as he watched her leave.
He had barely seen her today as she'd been busy. He missed her.
Day Nine
Stefan was in his office waiting for when Lexi would arrive. Part of him wanted to be out there to greet her, but another part wanted her to meet Caroline without him there. He needed to know what she thought of her.
He thought he heard voices so he moved over to his door, pushing it open so that is banged against the wall in his haste to see his best friend. He strode over, picking Lexi up and spinning her around, "I've missed you, Lexi."
"Put me down you big goof." Lexi laughed as he put her down, grinning at him, "I've missed you too."
Stefan grinned wide at Lexi, before he turned his blinding smile on Caroline, "Hold my calls. I am not to be disturbed."
Caroline nodded.
Stefan lead Lexi into his office, closing the door behind them.
Lexi was giggling as she took a seat, her eyes bright as she smirked, "She's cute."
Stefan took his seat, rolling his eyes that the first thing out of her mouth was about Caroline, "She's absolutely stunning I know."
"So when is your first date?" Lexi chuckled.
"Lex." Stefan rolled his eyes, "You know I can't."
"Yes, you can." Lexi disagreed.
"She's my employee." Stefan shifted uncomfortably in his seat.
"Yes, you would be the first boss to date his assistant. I'm shocked." Lexi deadpanned, giving him an annoyed look.
Stefan tried to search for another excuse, "What if something went wrong? What if she was just like…" He couldn't even finish the sentence. There was no way he could compare Caroline with Valerie, it was impossible. They were nothing alike, and he knew that deep in his bones.
"Are you serious right now?" Lexi actually looked shocked, "Are you comparing that ball of adorable sunshine outside to that despicable bitch?" She gave him a look which screamed idiot, "That is just stupid, on so many levels."
"I know." Stefan sighed. They were two complete opposites. Valerie had been serious and aloof, having an air of superiority about her. Caroline on the other hand, she was happy, kind, funny, and just full of light.
Lexi smirked at him, he could see the wheels turning behind her eyes which meant nothing good. He was about to ask when she spoke, "Let's get down to business, shall we?"
Stefan narrowed his eyes at her. He knew she was planning something, what it was he had no idea, but he knew her. She was up to something.
Lexi just kept grinning as they began to work.
Lexi and Stefan's business had finished a while ago, now they were just catching up, laughing freely together as they enjoyed this bonus time spent together. It was interrupted by the beep of the intercom. Stefan pushed the button, Lexi giggling next to him, "Ms Forbes?"
"Would you like me to order your lunch for you, Mr Salvatore?"
Lexi answered, "No need. We are going out for lunch today."
Stefan raised his eyebrow at her, rolling his eyes as she just stuck her tongue out at him.
"Oh. Okay." Caroline cleared her throat, "Was there anything you need, Mr Salvatore?"
"No, Ms Forbes." Stefan answered.
"Why don't you call each other by Stefan and Caroline?" Lexi's face was creased with confusion, "What's with the Ms and Mr?"
Stefan waited for the sound of the intercom being disconnected before answering, "We are at work."
"And did you call her Caroline during your," Lexi wiggled her eyebrows at him, "dirty dancing."
Stefan avoided her gaze as he all but whispered, "No."
"Why?" Lexi asked in disbelief, "Do you think you would fall in love with her if you were to say her name?"
Stefan swallowed at the word love, growing uncomfortable as Lexi grew close to the mark.
"Seriously!" Lexi punched his shoulder making him wince, "You won't use it because it's intimate. You are such an idiot."
Stefan avoided her gaze.
Lexi just laughed.
Stefan and Lexi walked out of his office laughing. It had been fun spending time with her.
Caroline had her jacket on, smiling at them but Stefan thought it looked forced, "Have a nice lunch." She turned to go.
"Where are you going?" Lexi asked.
Caroline turned, her eyebrow raised, her voice annoyed, "To lunch."
Lexi smirked amused, "I invited you to lunch."
Caroline's face was shocked, "What? When?"
"On the intercom earlier when you asked Stefan if he wanted you to order lunch?" Lexi reminded, turning to him chuckling, "Was I not obvious?"
"It was open to interpretation." Stefan chuckled back.
"Let me ask you now. Would you like to have lunch with Stefan and I?" Lexi smiled.
Caroline smiled; that same forced one, nodding, "Sure."
"Great!" Lexi's smiled, threading her hand through Caroline's as she pulled her to the elevator, giggling, "I can't wait to get to know you! I have heard so much about you."
"You-you have?"
"Stefan is my best friend." Lexi smiled, "We tell each other everything."
Stefan groaned, entered the elevator after Caroline and Lexi. His tone playful, "Do not believe a word that Lexi tells you."
"Because you know it's all true, Mr-run around naked at a frat party-Salvatore." Lexi winked.
Caroline burst into laughter, "You did what?" She tilted her head to grin widely at him, he couldn't help but beam back when faced with that beautiful real smile, "Wow. Do I have to worry about you running around naked in your office?"
Stefan smirked flirting, "Wouldn't you like to find out, Ms Forbes."
"I guess you'll find out." Caroline replied flirtatiously, making his heart jump in his chest.
Lexi laughed delighted.
Caroline, Lexi and Stefan entered the restaurant. They sat down at the table, perusing the menu before ordering their food.
Lexi smiled at Caroline, "How long have you been in New Orleans, Caroline?"
"A little over a month." Caroline returned Lexi's smile, "Once I knew that I had been hired I made the plans to move down here."
"Where did you live before moving here?" Lexi asked.
"Virginia. A small town called Mystic Falls." Caroline smiled.
Stefan recalled the name of the town, "Elijah's wife is from Mystic Falls."
"Really?" Caroline shook her head.
Stefan nodded, "Katerina Mikaelson is what she is known by now, before that her last name was Petrova."
Caroline shook her head, "I don't recall her."
"You will meet her at Klaus' show." Stefan shrugged his shoulders, "You might recognize her then."
"Maybe." Caroline chuckled, "If not, I'm sure we can talk about growing up there."
Their food arrived which brought a quietened their conversation. Lexi shot him an expectant look, which he widened his eyes at. She wanted him to use Caroline's name, he wasn't ready yet.
"So, Caroline." Lexi shot Stefan a triumphant look, he resisted the urge to stick his tongue out at her, "I heard that you were drinking with Stefan and Enzo." She shivered in disgust, wrinkling her nose as she spat out his name, "And Damon."
Caroline's cheeks flushed red, and she took a sip of her drink. He couldn't help from smirking, pretty sure that she had some memory of their dance. She met his smirk with her own, and he knew that she remembered.
"Did you get up to no good?" Lexi asked, leaning in conspiratorially, "Did this one let his hair down? Or was he stood in the corner drinking bourbon all night?"
Caroline chuckled, circling her finger around the rim of her glass. Stefan couldn't help staring at the sensual action, "Oh he definitely enjoyed himself. Drinking and dancing." She looked to him, chewing on her bottom lip, his eyes dropping there, the urge to kiss her hit him, "Wasn't that right, Mr Salvatore?"
Stefan's eyes danced, grinning suggestively, "I enjoyed the dancing very much, Ms Forbes." Boy did he, he still dreamt about her luscious body sliding against his.
Lexi looked between them, her brows raised as she smirked, "Why do I think you two are not just talking about dancing?"
"No reason!" Caroline giggled, looking away from him.
Stefan chuckled, leaning back, his grin blinding, "It was just a fun enjoyable night, even if Enzo was there." He tilted his head, winking at Lexi, "Though I think he might be off the market soon. He has the hots for her friend. They were all over each other all night."
"Ooh do tell." Lexi smirked at Caroline, "Is there love brewing?"
"Lexi." Stefan shook his head, "You can't feel love in a couple of meetings."
"You've just never tried it." Lexi winked.
"And you know why I never would." Stefan glared at Lexi, who looked apologetic, his good mood quickly evaporated at the reminder of Valerie. Feeling anger build within he stood abruptly, "If you'll excuse me, I need to use the restroom." He stomped across the room, really wanting to hit something.
Stefan pushed open the door to the bathroom at full force, storming over to the sink, planting his hands forcefully against the sink, breathing deeply through his nose as he tried to calm down.
He had to stop letting references to his past get to him. He hated Valerie with every inch of his being for what she did to him, and how she practically ruined his life. She started the process by destroying him, but he let her continue by spiraling into a downward spiral.
It had been seven years, and yet he still couldn't fully let go of his rage toward her. He honestly didn't know what he would do if he came face to face with her again, or whether anyone could hold him back from being a person he never wanted to be.
He looked into his reflection in the mirror, his eyes haunted by the memory of a girl that wasn't worth remembering at all. Against his conscious thoughts, another girl slipped into his head; blonde, beautiful, radiating sunshine from her very core. Caroline. The change was immediate in his eyes. Where once his gaze was stormy, now they were practically shining with warmth.
Just the thought of Caroline had him practically glowing. Could she be the one that would make him forget every bad thing that ever happened to him? Would she be the light of his life? Could he love her? Was it worth the risk? And if not, was he able to let her go?
His chest tightened painfully at the thought of losing her. He was pretty sure he had his answer to all his questions. He was just too scared to admit it.
Stefan returned to the table. His bad mood now gone, a smile on his face as he sat down, "What did I miss?"
Lexi didn't miss a beat, "Nothing much. Caroline wanted to know more about your naked indiscretions."
"Lexi!" Caroline gasped, laughing as she threw a roll at Lexi.
Lexi laughed loudly.
It warmed his heart that they were getting on, but he still narrowed his eyes at them, "Was it a mistake to introduce the two of you?"
Caroline and Lexi grinned, sharing a conspiratorial wink.
Stefan groaned playfully, a grin pulling at his mouth as he gazed at the two of them, "I can see the two women I'm closest to in my life ganging up on me now."
Lexi winked, "Oh you know it, Steffy."
Caroline's smile rivalled the sun for its brightness.
It stole the breath from Stefan's chest, all he could do was stare at her in awe, his heart wanting to beat out of his chest.
He had it bad.
When they returned to the office it was time for Lexi to go. She pulled Stefan into a hug, whispering in his ear, "She is a treasure that cares deeply for you. Don't you dare let her go." He couldn't stop his eyes from wandering over to Caroline, a smile on his lips once their gazes met, his heart skipping as she smiled back.
Lexi let him go to go over to Caroline to pull her in for a hug. The vision warmed his soul, his best friend and his… Caroline liked one another. He felt happy.
Lexi spoke, "Good. Because I like you, Caroline."
Caroline laughed, "I like you too."
"God help me!" Stefan snorted, teasingly acting like he hated it, though nothing could be further from the truth, "You like each other. I'm doomed."
Lexi wiggled her eyebrows at him before turning to Caroline, "Do you want to go out on the town with me?" She rolled her eyes, "On Friday, obviously, seeing as you won't have work the next day."
Caroline's grin widened, "Only if I can bring my best friend."
"Deal." Lexi winked, before she sauntered off, calling out over her shoulder, "See you soon, Stef. And I'll be seeing you on Friday, Ms Forbes." Her giggles could be heard as the elevator doors closed.
"My best friend is absolutely crazy. Just warning you." Stefan said mock seriously, before he couldn't stop the wide smile from covering his face, or the pleasure to light up his eyes, "And I'm so pleased she likes you."
"I like her too. She's fun, and she brings a smile to your face." Caroline cleared her throat, looking away from him.
Warmth spread through him like he'd walked into the sun. He stared at her in happiness, the smile heard clear in his voice, "I do have a lot more to smile about these days."
Stefan caught Caroline's gaze, and he became lost in the two beautiful blue eyes that took his breath away. She sucked her bottom lip into her mouth, biting it softly. He dropped his gaze to the tempting lip, sucking in a breath as the desire to take it in his shot through him.
He turned around quickly away from the temptation she posed, heading straight to his office, but he could not resist peaking at her over his shoulder before closed the door behind him. He dropped his head against the wood, groaning softly to himself.
He wanted her so bad.
Day Twelve
Ever since Lexi's visit, Stefan couldn't help himself from smiling at Caroline every time he saw her, or watching her when she wasn't looking, and stealing touches from her whenever he could, making his pulse race at the forbidden touch. He even started to invite her into his office for lunch, where they talked and laughed so easily with each other. It was amazing, and he knew he shouldn't be doing it as the more time spent with her would only make him fall harder for her.
But he couldn't stop himself.
Just being around her, basking in her sweet laughter and beautiful smiles, made him happy. He didn't want to give that up. So he would cling onto every moment he could, until he no longer had an option but to give her up.
He was almost positive that it would be an impossibility at this point.
Stefan looked at the clock, noticing that it was almost five, and time for Caroline to leave. She would be going out with Lexi tonight. He hoped his best friend would keep quiet on his feelings, as he didn't want Caroline to get her hopes up as he wasn't ready for something more right now.
Instead of waiting for her to say goodbye to him he went to her. He opened his door, leaning against the doorframe, hands in his pockets as he smiled at her as she turned to him, "Are you getting ready to go home?"
"Yeah." Caroline nodded, putting on her bag, smiling at him, "Then I will be changing my clothes for tonight. Bonnie will be meeting me at my apartment, and we'll be meeting Lexi there."
Stefan hesitated, looking down at his shoes, as he gained the courage to ask her, "Where… where are you going tonight?"
Caroline never took her eyes away from his as she crossed the small space between them, "Not this time." She tapped him on the chest smirking, "You are going to have to work a lot harder than that if you want to know where I'll be tonight, Mr Salvatore."
Stefan's eyes darkened with desire, longing for her filling his being, all he wanted was to pull her into his arms and kiss her until they were both breathless.
Caroline winked at him before she spun around sauntering to the elevator. Her hips moved enticingly, and his eyes were drawn to her perfectly curved ass that he just wanted to be pressed up against again. A smirk curled his lips, his eyes catching hers as the elevator doors closed. She had done it on purpose. He really needed to know where she was going to be.
He went into his office to make a phone call.
"Hey." Lexi answered.
"Hey." Stefan waited a moment before trying for subtle, "Are you looking forward to tonight?"
"I am." Lexi chuckled.
"Where are you going tonight anyway?" Stefan's leg started jumping in his anxiety to know.
"Someplace new." Lexi's voice was amused, as if she knew why he was asking.
"And that is?" Stefan had to know, he needed to know where Caroline was going to be. He wanted to be able to see her if he could, and he wanted to make sure she got home safe.
"I'm not telling you." Lexi's voice was teasing, irritating him, "I'm not having you interrupt my time to get to know the girl you'll eventually get your head out of your ass to date."
"Lexi-" Stefan's voice was practically a growl.
"Still not telling you." Lexi giggled, "You'd have to call Caroline and ask her." She didn't wait for him to say anything, instead she hung up after saying, "Bye, Stefan."
Stefan resisting the urge to break his phone again. He didn't want to explain why he needed a new phone for the second time in as many weeks.
He would just have to suffer, not knowing where Caroline was and if she was okay, until a reasonable time tonight to text her to see if she was home yet. If she wasn't, hopefully he could persuade her to let him take her home.
Stefan was at home, but he wasn't relaxed. He had been staring at his phone almost the whole night waiting for a call or text from Caroline, or just waiting for the moment he could contact her.
Then as if his thoughts willed it so his phone rang. He dived for it, answering it after the second ring, trying to keep his voice calm, despite the racing of his heart, "Hey."
"I am very drunk right now, Mr Salvatore." Caroline giggled.
The lovely sound brought a smile to his face and he couldn't help but chuckle, "I take it you had a good time?"
"Yes, I did." Caroline's smile could be heard in her voice, "I love Lexi. I want to keep her."
"Well you can't have her." Stefan smirked, she was so cute, "She's my best friend."
"Spoil all my fun." Caroline was pouting, he could hear it in her voice.
"We can't have that." Stefan laughed.
He heard Caroline giggling before yawning.
"How are you getting home?" Stefan asked concerned, he needed to be the one to take her so that he would be sure that she was safe.
"Bonnie's got Enzo picking her up, and Lexi is taking me when her boyfriend picks her up." Caroline yawned again.
"I'll pick you up." Stefan offered, "Where are you?"
"You don't have to do that."
"I want to." Stefan replied, his tone soft with meaning, "I need to know that you're home safe."
"Okay." Caroline agreed, her voice as soft as his. She told him the address.
"I'll be there in fifteen minutes." Stefan said, already heading out the door as he hung up.
Exactly fifteen minutes later; he may have broken some speed limits in his haste to get to her as quick as possible. He parked outside, locking his car and almost ran inside to get to her. He saw her up ahead, he quickened his steps to reach her.
He heard Alaric ask, "You ready to go?"
"Actually-" Caroline started.
Stefan interrupted her, "Actually, I'll be the one to take her home." He acknowledged everyone, before making his way over to Caroline. Everyone else in the room disappeared as he stared into her beautiful blue eyes.
Caroline smiled hopelessly wide at him, "Hey."
"Hey." Stefan returned her smile, unable to resist raising his hand to brush along her soft cheek, "Are you okay to leave?"
Caroline nodded, stumbling forward right into his arms, her nose buried in his neck, he wrapped them around her instantly, dropping a kiss to her forehead as he breathed in her scent. He resisted the urge to smile stupidly big as he savoured the feel of her against him.
"Let's get you home." He tightened his arm around her, sweeping her legs out from under her so that he could carry her.
Caroline giggled, waving at everyone before snuggling back into his chest.
He cradled her delicately against him, leading her out to his waiting car. He made sure she was strapped in before going to his side to drive her home.
Stefan carried her to her door, waiting for her to unlock it before he led her inside. He followed the path to her bedroom that he memorised the last time he took her home.
He tenderly laid her down on her bed, her arms still around his neck, and his breath caught as she placed a sweet kiss on his cheek, "Thank you."
"You're welcome, Ms Forbes." Stefan just got past the lump in his throat, the temptation of her on her bed making it hard for him to leave her, all he wanted to do was lay down beside her and pull her to him as he held her through the night. He couldn't so he kissed her forehead tenderly, "Goodnight."
He left her then, forcing himself not to turn around and look at her.
Day Twenty Six
Stefan made his way to Caroline's apartment to pick her up. They would be flying to Los Angeles for his review with his father. He was nervous, but he was happy with what they'd accomplished, especially Caroline. She had been amazing, finding Enzo's venues, and Klaus' for his art show.
He reached her apartment and knocked on her door.
Caroline opened the door, smiling wide at him, "Hey."
"Hey." Stefan smiled back, "You ready to go?"
"Yep!" Caroline nodded, spinning around to pick up her bags. He wasn't having that so he placed his hand on her arm to stop her. She looked at him in question.
Stefan smiled brighter, tugging her arm until she faced him. He let his hand glide down arm, sliding his palm over hers as he left her skin, bending down to pick up her two suitcases, "Allow me."
He walked out of her apartment, heading to the elevator, and then down to where his car was parked. He waited for her to join him.
Caroline made her way over to him, and he smiled at her as she reached him. He waited for her to get in the car before he also got it. He started the car and began the journey to the airport.
Stefan led Caroline through Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport to the departure lounge to wait for their flight to be announced. They sat down in the chairs next to each other.
Stefan picked up a magazine to browse through as he waited. He could see Caroline's knee jumping up and down with her nerves. He placed his hand on her knee, resisting the urge to laugh as she almost jumped out of her seat, he rubbed his thumb against her as he told her soothingly, "Relax."
"How do you do that?" Caroline whispered, staring at him in awe.
Stefan creased his brow, "Do what?"
"Calm me down when I'm acting crazy?" Caroline asked.
"You're not crazy." Stefan smiled at Caroline, she was as far from crazy as possible, she was sweetly neurotic, and he adored that about her.
The voice came out of the speakers announcing that they could board.
Caroline stood up eagerly, Stefan placed his hand on the small of her back as he led her over to the flight attendant to check their boarding passes. It was his place to touch her, still making his heart thud harder in his chest and made him imagine the feel of her skin beneath his hand.
Stefan kept his hand on her back all the way to their seats, he let her have the window seat, and he sat next to her. It was a short flight which they spent talking to each other.
"Favourite colour?" Caroline asked.
"Blue." Stefan smiled as he gazed into her sparkling eyes, the reason for his new favourite colour, "You?"
"I don't really have a favourite, I love everything. But if I had to pick…" Caroline stared at him for a moment before answering, "Green."
His heart skipped in thinking it was for the same reason as his. The colour of one another's eyes. He asked another question, "Favourite book?"
"Mine is "Pride and Prejudice."" Caroline shrugged, giggling prettily, "I've loved it ever since I was a kid. Yours?"
"I love "Catcher in The Rye," it is my favourite book that I've ever read." Stefan replied.
"Birthday?" Caroline bit her lip.
"November first." Stefan's eyes dropped to her lips, wanting to taste them so he looked down, their hands were almost touching, "Yours?"
"October tenth." Caroline replied.
A sly smirk came over Stefan's mouth, "So yours is just around the corner."
Caroline blushed, "Yeah, very soon."
Stefan chuckled, reaching into his pocket for his phone. He typed her birthday into his calendar before putting it away. His smirk grew wider.
Caroline narrowed her eyes at him, he knew she had guessed that he'd put her birthday in his phone.
Stefan turned to her, his eyes sparkling as he flirted, "And how old will you be, Ms Forbes?"
"I'll be twenty-three." Caroline chewed her lip before asking, "How old will you be, Mr Salvatore?"
"I will be turning twenty-six." Stefan replied.
"So not much difference between us then." Caroline smiled at him.
"No." Stefan turned to her, a soft smile on his lips, "Not much at all."
Stefan became lost in her beautiful eyes. He could see the emotions swirling in her gaze making his stomach flutter. He was pretty sure she could see his own feelings projected back at her.
After a four-hour flight they landed at LAX. They retrieved their luggage, met the driver, and made their way to the hotel. Traffic made the journey slow and after almost an hour they finally arrived at the hotel.
Caroline turned to Stefan, "I'll check us in, if you want to take care of our luggage?"
Stefan smirked playfully, "Since when are you the boss?"
Caroline giggled, fluttering her eyelashes at him, making him smile, "Since I was the one that made the reservation."
"Then you best get to it, Ms Forbes." Stefan chuckled, watching as she left the car still giggling.
Stefan got out of the car, signalling to a nearby employee to take their luggage. He gestured for him to follow as he went to find Caroline. As he entered the lobby he heard the sound of her angry voice.
"Another hotel! You want me to get another hotel instead of fixing your mistake!"
Stefan hurried to her, taking Caroline by the arm so she was facing him. He asked in concern, "What's wrong?"
Caroline closed her eyes, telling him through clenched teeth, "There is only one room."
Stefan tilted his head, he must have misheard her, "What?"
Caroline opened her eyes, laughing in shock, "They made a mistake. I asked for two rooms but somehow that became one."
Stefan swallowed, "One room?" He was lost for words, the idea of sharing a room with her made his pulse throb in his ears, so he asked desperately, "Do they have any rooms left?"
"They are fully booked." Caroline shook her head, "I would have to find another hotel to have my own room."
"No way!" Stefan shook his head, there was no way Caroline was going anywhere on her own, she stayed with him or they would find another hotel. He swallowed as he offered, "We are both adults, we can share."
Caroline's eyes went wide as she whispered, "Are-are you sure?"
Stefan nodded, "I'm not having you alone god knows how far away. You will stay with me." He cleared his throat, "It's only for a couple of days, right?"
"Right." Caroline nodded. She held her hand out to the receptionist, "We'll take it." The woman gave her the keys and told them their room number.
Caroline marched off, Stefan following behind her.
Caroline opened the door walking inside, Stefan following behind her. He watched as she went to explore the bathroom. He walked over to the bed sitting on the edge, turning his head to gaze at the head of the bed he would be sharing with her. He swallowed as images of her in his arms, either writhing in pleasure against him or his arms holding her close as he buried his face in her hair. His stomach clenched, lust shooting through him.
Caroline fidgeted, before blurting out, "What are we doing now?"
Stefan checked the clock, "It's just after six. How about we get some dinner?"
"From room service?" Caroline asked.
"No." Stefan shook his head smiling, thinking about the places he would eat when he lived here, and he suddenly wanted to share that part of him with Caroline, "I grew up here. Let me take you to somewhere I used to hang out at all the time."
"Okay." Caroline smiled brightly, grabbing her purse.
Stefan got his things, his hand falling to the small of her back as he led her out.
He was excited to share with her a part of his past that didn't haunt him.
"Oh my god! This is heaven!" Caroline moaned around a bite of a maple-glazed bacon donut, "Literally heaven."
Stefan chuckled, holding his coffee cup just below his lips as he watched her pretty much make love to her donut, "Enjoying yourself?"
Caroline moaned as she took another bite, her eyes fluttering in pleasure.
Stefan smiled as he teased her, "Shall I leave the two of you alone?"
Caroline giggled, raising her hand to her mouth. She swallowed the last bite, dabbing her mouth with her napkin. Flushing under his amused gaze.
"So… do you want to discuss our meeting tomorrow?" Stefan asked, becoming more serious.
Caroline sobered, "Yes. I would like to know what to expect." She hesitated, before asking, "And what you expect me to do or say."
Stefan put down his coffee cup before he gave Caroline his full attention, "My father will be talking to me directly. He shouldn't really ask you anything," he smiled at her as he revealed, "until I tell him you picked the venues for Enzo's shows that is."
Caroline paled, "You're going to tell your father it was me?"
"Of course." Stefan reached across the table to place his hand on top of Caroline's, "It was all you. You deserve to have your work acknowledged."
Caroline smiled wide, the beauty of it taking his breath away.
"We will tell him about how Enzo's show went, and how we have two more scheduled. There are also the competition winners that will meet him and talk to him at the final gig." Stefan was pretty sure his heart was in his eyes as he smiled at her, "Then there is Klaus' art show that is next week."
Caroline nodded.
"He may ask you to leave the room to talk to me one on one." Stefan warned her in advance.
"Okay." Caroline replied.
Stefan was lying in bed, waiting for Caroline to come out of the bathroom and make her way into bed with him. His heart was racing, his stomach tingling with anticipation. How the hell was he supposed to sleep with Caroline beside her? Smelling so good, and looking so beautifully tempting. The next few days would certainly be a lesson in self control.
He heard the door open, and Caroline peaked her head round, asking shakily, "Do you want me to turn out the light?"
"Yeah." Stefan pulled back the covers for her, taken aback by the intimacy of the action.
Caroline switched off the light, the room suddenly dark, and the only sounds were of her shuffling to her side of the bed. He heard the slide of her entering the bed, and the ruffle of the sheet as she covered herself.
Stefan turned his head, he could see her outline in the darkness, and he whispered, "Goodnight."
"Goodnight." Caroline whispered back.
Stefan laid there quietly beside her, keeping his breathing steady as the scent of vanilla filled his senses. He listened to her gentle breaths, eventually falling asleep to a sound he wouldn't mind always falling asleep to.
Several hours later Stefan woke engulfed in the scent of vanilla whereas when he went to sleep it was only a hint. His whole body was warm, and pressed against something soft. He opened his eyes to see Caroline's blonde hair surrounding him, and his face was buried in her neck. He looked down to see his arm was wrapped around her, his hand resting on top of hers.
He should move.
He didn't.
Instead, he curled his body tighter against her, burying his smile in her neck. He breathed deeply, in and out, drowning his senses in her.
He soon fell back to sleep, a content smile on his face as he held Caroline in his arms all night.
Stefan woke up in the morning alone, his head on Caroline's pillow, and his arm stretched out searching for the warmth of her missing body. He turned his head around, spotting Caroline on the chair. He smiled sleepily at her, his voice sleep roughened, "Morning."
"Morning." Caroline smiled, her cheeks flushing pink as their eyes met.
He recalled the feel of every inch of them pressed together as they slept, his stomach clenched, desire putting fire in his veins. He cleared his throat, "I'm gonna take a shower."
He got up, heading into the bathroom. He would be taking a very cold shower.
Stefan and Caroline were seated outside of his father's office, waiting for their turn to go in.
"Mr Salvatore will see you now." His executive assistant told them.
Caroline stood up, taking a deep breath. Stefan wanted to soothe her nerves so he placed his hand on the small of her back. She smiled gratefully at him, he returned it easily.
Together, they walked into Giuseppe's office, Stefan removing his hand once they were inside.
"Stefan!" Giuseppe greeted him, smiling politely.
"Father." Stefan returned the same smile.
Giuseppe smiled politely at Caroline, "You are his new executive assistant?"
Caroline held out her hand, "Caroline Forbes."
Giuseppe shook her hand, gesturing for them to sit, "Take a seat."
Stefan took the seat nearest his father, Caroline took the one nearest the wall.
Giuseppe sat once both of them were seated. He looked through the folder in front of him, pausing on certain pages before he spoke, "Your work has been average for the last six months since our last review. Your clients were pleased with your efforts, but I think you could have done more."
Stefan was used to his father's criticism, it was always harsh, which is why he insisted on doing it himself.
"In the past month your work has been vastly improved." Giuseppe eyed Caroline, making her uncomfortable, Stefan could tell, and he couldn't help but tense, "I believe that coincides with your arrival, Ms Forbes."
"I have worked for your son for the past month, yes." Caroline replied.
"I gave Ms Forbes the assignment to find three venues for Enzo St Claire." Stefan turned to look at Caroline, a proud smile curling his lips, "She found them quickly and with complete approval from the client."
"Hm." Giuseppe looked between them.
"Next week we have Klaus Mikaelson's art show that Ms Forbes once again found for us. He wanted it to overlook the ocean." Stefan couldn't stop praising her.
"And where did you pick, Ms Forbes?" Giuseppe asked.
Stefan could tell that she felt uncomfortable so he sent her an encouraging smile, he could see her relax before Caroline spoke confidently, "I searched through all the places that overlooked the ocean, and while all very nice I had the idea to host it directly on the beach." She smiled proudly, "I thought that would stand out. So everyone would most definitely be talking about his exhibition."
"And what did the client think of this?" Giuseppe raised his eyebrow.
"I talked to Mr Mikaelson and both him and his brother loved it." Caroline smiled, "And providing the weather holds out it should be a wonderful night. But even if it were to rain Mr Mikaelson's art will be under a cover."
"We will have walls set up securely within the sand, with a roof covering them." Stefan added, wanting to show that they'd thought of everything.
"Very good." Giuseppe looked at both of them critically, "We shall see how that will turn out next week." His father turned to Caroline telling her, "Ms Forbes, would you leave the room so I can have a private word with my son?"
Caroline stood up, smiling politely at his father, "Of course. It was nice to meet you, Mr Salvatore."
Giuseppe nodded back.
Caroline turned to leave, meeting his eyes briefly she sent him an encouraging smile before she left.
It lifted him for a moment, a small smile on his lips as he watched her go before his father destroyed any good feelings Caroline had given him.
"You are in love with your secretary. You disappoint me, son." His father's voice dripped with disdain, "I thought you'd learned your lesson about gold diggers after that English bitch tried to take you for a ride."
Stefan clenched his jaw in anger. Valerie and Caroline were nothing alike and she should never be mentioned in the same sentence as that conniving bitch. He wouldn't even think about that other accusation. He couldn't. He wasn't ready to think about it.
Giuseppe continued, despite Stefan's silence, "You should not be so willing to give her credit. It only makes you look bad, like you can't do your own job, and like you need your secretary to do it for you."
Stefan had to speak up, "I was the one that asked her to find the locations. I wanted her to prove herself to me." His stared at his father defiantly, "She did."
Giuseppe shook his head in disappointment, "At your next review I want you to take credit for everything. They are your accomplishments and yours alone. No matter who has helped you."
Stefan just glared at his father, too angry to speak.
"Screw her if you must, get her out of your system." Giuseppe waved his hand dismissively, "A secretary would not be the right marriage material. She would not fit into this family." He chuckled, "Your brother knows that. Which is why he screws and moves on."
Stefan had heard enough. He abruptly stood up, speaking through clenched teeth, "Is that all?"
"I believe so." Giuseppe sighed, he watched Stefan reach the door then said one last thing, "She is nothing, and one day you could run this company. You are out of her league."
No, father, she is way too good for me, Stefan thought as he glared at his father, wanting nothing more than to say that to his face but he couldn't. He was still scared of his father.
Stefan left the office, his jaw clenched. He looked over at Caroline and just barked at her, too angry to be gentle, "Let's go. Now."
Caroline jumped up, following him as he stomped away. He could feel her eyes on him but he was too upset to talk to her.
An unbearable silence followed them all the way back to the hotel.
Stefan was absorbed in his thoughts on the bed, his father's words reverberating in his head, making him even angrier as he obsessed over them. He rubbed his hands over his face, he needed a drink, but first he needed to splash some water on his face to try and calm down.
He walked to the bathroom, pushing the door open, and then freezing in place at the sight in front of his eyes. Caroline was taking her top off, revealing her creamy skin, and her ample bosoms housed in a clinging bra. His pants suddenly became tighter at the alluring vision. He wanted nothing more than to stride over, pull her to him, and devour her lips with his.
Caroline's fingers were at her skirt, about to push it down when he took a sharp intake of breath to make her aware of his presence before there was no turning back. She spun around, her eyes meeting his darkened gaze. His gaze dropped to the cleavage on show before he forced his eyes back to hers.
They just stared at one another. The sexual tension in the room making him feel like he was on fire and she was the only thing that could put him out. He noticed her chest rising and falling, her breasts looking even more tempting. He stared at her for another charged moment before he abruptly turned around, spitting out as he ran away from the serious temptation she posed, "I'm going out. Don't wait up."
He slammed their room door shut behind him.
Stefan was sat at a bar, knocking back his third or fourth drink, he couldn't remember. He was wallowing in his misery.
His father thought Caroline was just another gold digger, which he knew was one of the farthest things from the truth. If she was she would have been all over him and Damon when she met them.
His father thought she wasn't good for their family's image. He had one thing to say to that screw you, Caroline was worth more than all the money in his bank. She was kind, loving, happy, and the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen.
His father accused him of being in love with her.
He stared down at his glass, his heart twisting painfully in his chest, his stomach clenching, his breathing harsh. He already knew what the truth was.
Stefan opened the door, walking into the room, he saw Caroline laid on the bed, a bowl of something in front of her. She sat up as soon as she saw him. He had to swallow at the domesticity of it.
Caroline crossed her arms over her chest, asking quietly, "Are you okay?"
"Oh, I'm just dandy." Stefan hissed, undoing his suit jacket harshly, throwing it across the room not caring where it landed, his tie the next to be tossed on the pile on the floor.
"I know you're not." Caroline walked over to him, her eyes full of concern, as she placed her hand on his chest. He could feel the touch burn through him, "What did he say to you?"
"Doesn't matter." Stefan looked away from her, not wanting to repeat his father's disgusting words to Caroline.
"If it upset you yes it does." Caroline reached for his jaw bringing his face to hers, his heart was torn in two as he stared into her worried gaze, "It matters to me. Whatever it is we'll fix it."
Stefan grabbed hold of her arm, trying to find the strength to push her away, "You can't fix this."
"Give me a chance to!" Caroline pleaded, stroking her thumb along his cheek, making him want to lean into her touch.
"You can't." Stefan finally managed to push her hand away from his face. He stalking past her, almost tearing his shirt off as he threw it in the pile.
The next thing he felt was her hand against his back, and her beautiful voice in his ears, "Just tell me, please." She stroked her hand along his back, and he couldn't help but relax under her touch, "I want to help you."
Stefan clenched his jaw, her touch making something in him snap, he turned around glaring at her, "You are the problem."
"What?!" Caroline's eyes widened in shock.
Stefan stalked closer to her, pushing her against the wall, pressing his body against hers, his hand slapping wall beside her, his breaths coming quicker, "You are my problem, Ms Forbes. And now my father knows it too."
Caroline stared at him, her chest was heaving between them, pushing her breasts against his chest, making him shudder.
He pushed himself away from her, taking a few steps as he ran his hands through his hair in agitation, "Why did you have to walk into my office that day?" He shook his head, his heart felt like it was in a vice, "My life was just fine before you came into it and turned my world upside down."
"Why don't you fire me then?" Caroline screamed at his back, "If you hate me so much." A little sob came out of her throat.
It broke his heart to hear her cry, so he spun around to face her. He took in her trembling lips and watery eyes and he hated himself for hurting her. He went to her, a grimace of pain on his face, "Don't you see?" He cradled her face between his hands, staring at her desperately, passion for her overwhelming him.
Caroline stared at him with her beautifully blue eyes as he pulled her face to him and finally covered her lips with his. He wanted to moan in joy as he was finally kissing Caroline Forbes like he'd been dreaming of for weeks. He moved his mouth against her tenderly, touching her bottom lip, then her top, before he slid his tongue against her lip asking for entrance.
She opened her mouth to him and he was lost. Completely and totally lost in all that was Caroline, the way she ran her hands along his chest to wrap around his neck made his shudder. She was perfection in his arms and he couldn't get enough, wouldn't ever get enough.
Stefan's hands threaded through her hair, pulling her ever closer to his eager mouth. Their lips moved in sync with each other, moans and heavy breathing the only sounds that could be heard. He walked her backwards towards the bed, once she hit the bed he laid her down, covering her body with his. His hands slid down her sides to hold onto her hips, kissing her fervently before he pulled back to nip at her bottom lip.
Caroline stared up at him with lust darkened eyes, pants escaping her mouth as her chest heaved. She was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen, and all he wanted to do was lower himself back down to kiss her over and over again.
Stefan gazed down at her, his eyes verging on loving, his hand came up to brush her hair away from her face. He pressed his lips to hers in another delicate touch of their lips, savouring her taste before he whispered meaningfully, "I don't hate you at all, Caroline."
Stefan forced himself away from her, his heart racing at finally using her name. He grabbed his jacket, making his way out of the room. Just as he shut the door he heard Caroline's whisper, "Stefan…"
He dropped his head against the closed door, balling his hands into fists against the wood, a single tear rolling down his cheek. Hearing his name from her lips made his heart race, her beautiful voice caressing his name so perfectly that he never wanted to stop hearing it from her.
All he wanted to do was throw the door open, run to her, and pull her to him as he covered her lips and never let her go. All he had to do was open the door, and Caroline would be his.
He was scared.
TBC
AN – I hope you liked Stefan's POV. From this point forward this fic will be in both of their POV's.