Author's Note: I wanted to get the proper feel for this chapter. I'm not real good at the love scenes, so I pray I did it justice. My song choice for the make out scene is:
Look After You by: The Fray
And here's the link to view the dress Bonnie wears to the Gala.
./_EcYgAOhPYlo/S6V9q10lMLI/AAAAAAAAHMg/OQvSXqpCrpk/s320/H%26M_Garden_Collection_Red_Rose_
And now ...
Chapter 12
Monday: 4 pm
Standing in the showroom of Mona's; a small boutique on the main promenade of Mystic Falls most busiest shopping area, Bonnie and Elena modeled outfit after stunning outfit in preparation for the Founders Fundraiser. "So, you and Tyler, huh ? I never would've thought." smiled Elena, who was currently checking out her petit form in the mirror. She was wearing a calf length lime green halter dress. The thin fabric made a swooshing sound as she lifted her hair and spun to survey the open back. "Come on Bon. Come out here and tell me what you think of this one." she whined jokingly. "Just a sec." The sliding of metal against metal, as Bonnie pulled back the heavy gold velvet curtain, and poked her head out of her cubicle. Scrunching up her face, she shook her head "No. Not that one. Makes you look like a starburst candy."
"Sweet huh ?" the brunette replied putting on her best runway pose. "Allow me to rephrase. It makes you look like someone threw up a starburst candy." the witch snarked. Gasping in mock offense, Elena picked up a frilled cream colored pillow from a nearby seatee and chucked it playfully at her friend, both laughing heartily. "Ok well, let's see if you did any better this time. You've gone thru about six dresses already. I've never seen you this indecisive before." she told her, as she flopped down on the ivory brocade sofa. Stepping from the room, Bonnie walked over to the mirror and observed the dress.
It was a fitted pale pink strappy number with ruching throughout; a perfect contrast to her tanned skin and green eyes. "Wow Bon. You look fantastic !... But that dress is way too sexy for a formal affair... Did you have another idea in mind for that 'Take me I'm yours.' dress ?"
Fleetingly, she looked away from her image, to regard Elena, who was grinning like a kid who'd just become privy to a special secret. Bonnie had hoped to keep her feelings for Tyler private- at least until she'd had sorted them out- was she so transparent ? About to put up a rebuttal, she found herself momentarily stumped and stood there like a fish, opening and closing her mouth. "I take that as a, yes." smiled her bff. "No. It's not like that. I." releasing a sigh that told of her apprehension and insecurities, she trudged over to where Elena sat patting the space beside her.
Taking a seat, she made herself more at ease by tucking her legs underneath her onto the plush cushions and looked her best friend in the eyes. She made a decision to put aside what had transpired in the past few months. Elena was her oldest and dearest friend, she needed her support. "First, ..." Bonnie said closing her eyes "Termino ota moenia y sontius." The walls appeared to fade out, almost as if an illusion had been painted over them. "Now we can speak freely... I really like Tyler. More than I think I should. He acts... Different, when were together. He's not any of those things people said he was. Or how we thought, he was. And, the more I'm around him... I don't know... I think he might feel something for me. He kissed me." she said blushing.
Staring like she'd been struck dumb, the brunette squeeled, "WHAT ! WHEN ! You kissed Tyler ? How was it ?" Holding her palms up to diffuse the girl's sense of urgency, she told her "Ok. Calm down. I don't need for all of Mystic Falls to know about this. Yesterday at my place. And- Oh God, was it ! If I had to use a word to define it, it would be... 'Awsome'." Thinking on the kiss, mixed with her dream from the other evening, surely had to be some sort of crime. She smiled to herself. "Bonnie. Are you in love with him ?" "I never thought about it... I think it's too soon to call it that. But, Grams always told me to trust in fate. If my heart ever strays onto that path, I'll know the moment it does."
Elena seemed contemplative, "I didn't know how serious this was becoming.' Releasing a breath, Miss Gilbert decided to let her friend know the dangers of aligning with an immortal. "I'm happy if your happy. But, I need to tell you, about that talk I had with Stefan and Damon. They really believe that Tyler is in a very volatile state. If he doesn't figure out how to control his temper, any extremely physical or emotional stress can set him off. We're afraid that you might be letting your past and present history with Ty cloud your judgement. He might hurt you. Damon said he tried to warn you of this before you became too invested."
Damon. The man loved to instigate trouble. Now he was getting on her nerves. "Is that where this is coming from ? Alright, yeah, he did warn me. Several times. That doesn't mean anything. You stuck it out with Stefan when he relapsed recently. I don't pass inference on Ty, because I can sense that he's a good person. I know he wouldn't hurt me." Bonnie said defensively. "How ? Your saying it as if it's fact, but your not explaining how you came to that conclusion. He threw you several feet the other night; you could been injured or killed. What evidence do you have to support this theory ? You know nothing of what he's like in his wolf form. In vampire form, you've seen Stefan do what's right, how he fought against his darker half. What of Tyler ?" Elena spoke sternly. "I had a vision, a powerful one. You know they're never wong.' she couldn't refute that logic. The young witch had predicted many things in the past. "And I honestly believe he was trying to save me by putting me in the safest position he knew. With you." "I still think you should at least give Damon's words some thought. He's concerned for you." "Concern. Is that what you call it. He tried to break up you and Stefan. And he almost killed me. That doesn't instill the vibe of good will towards your fellow man." "If your open to forgiving and relying on Tyler and Stefan, then why not Damon ? Look, I don't much like him either, but, I've seen some good in him too. You didn't see how hurt he was after you two argued the other day. He was trying to help you. I think he wants to redeem himself in your eyes." Hurt. Redeem. Damon ? He wasn't capable of it. And here's Elena Gilbert plugging him like she's his PR agent. "Lets say, for the sake of sounding moot, that he's doing all this out of concern. There has to be a concrete motive behind it. Everything he does is for personal gain. HE IS SELFISH ! Plain and simple." Although they both gave convincing statements, she could tell, her best pal was still on edge. So, she grasped her hands, "I can handle it Lena. If it'll make you feel better I'll talk to Damon. I'll even allow him and Stefan to be my bodyguards- temporarily- until I get a handle on my abilities and find more information to help Ty. That's the best I can do." At that, the brunette smiled "Ok. Just know that I'm here if you need to talk, cry or let off some stream. Stefan too. And take it from a girl who's had two vamps fighting over her, dating a supernatural can be a pain in the ass." replied Elena. "Thanks for the heads up." They embraced each other in a bear hug, then the young sorceress took down the shield over the area and they got to their feet. "Where is Caroline ? She was supposed to be here by now. I'm gonna call her." said Bonnie.
Meanwhile: Caroline Forbes
"Why don't you be my girlfriend, I'll treat you good. I know you hear your friends when they say you should. Baby. Cause if you were my girlfriend, I'd be your shining star. The one to show you where you are, girl you should be- My girlfriend."
Driving into the square towards Mona's Boutique, to meet up with Bonnie and Elena, Caroline picked her pink rhinestone decal blackberry from her clutch. She loved this song ! Classic NSYNC. The good ol' days of boy band hotness. She had been singing along in the confines of her sleek red jetta convertible, when her cell went off. Lowering the volume on the car radio, she took the call. "Caroline Forbes. What's your dish ?" "Care. It's Ty. You busy ?" Great. Houdini wanted to talk. She'd been keeping her distance from him lately. Still slightly miffed about his ditching the party she'd given him. He'd come by her locker the day before, to apologize for leaving. She'd been frantic when her mom came home and told her what they'd found. She started blaming herself for persuading him to come out when she knew he hadn't been well. Then he shows up at school monday, right as rain ! "Actually, yes. I'm heading over to 'Mona's' to meet up with my two besties. Why ? If you want to know if you'll be graced with my presence at your party, again- yes." She could sense his irritation over the phone. She smirked. "I'm sure we can deal. Look I was actually wondering... The football team is trying to put together a gift for the cheerleaders, for prom." "Really ? I wasn't informed of this." Rounding the corner she stopped; red light. "Hence the term, gift. And I'm the captain. I would be the one to tell you. Which I am." God, she could be so exasperating at times. "Right. Continue."
"I need the favorite colors and favorites flowers of all the girls."He grimaced. He only needed the info for one cheerleader, but he didn't want to give Caroline any juicy gossip. Plus, she'd tell Bonnie. "Oh, well then. I like pink and magnolia's. Bonnie likes bright red and roses..." he lost her after the first five names. "Uh, Care. I hear my mom calling me. You know how it is. Gotta go." "Oh. Ok. I'll give you the other six names tomorrow. Later." She was pulling up to the store. Cutting the engine and the music, she put her cell back in her bag, kissed the picture of Matt, hanging on the rearview mirror. She was about to head inside, when her phone went off again. "Ugh, are. You. kidding me." Checking the caller ID: Matt (boopie). Smiling like , she answered "Hey, hottness."
Mona's Boutique: Office of Tricia Lori- Assistant Manager
Phone rings
"Good Afternoon. Mona's Boutique, Tricia Lori speaking. How may I help you ?" "Hello Ms. Lori. My name's Tyler, and I was wondering if you could help me ?"
Tricia was trying to finish up her daily status report before she closed up shop at 5:30 pm. She didn't get this position by being a slacker, she liked helping people. Customer Service was her middle name. "Ok Tyler. What is it that you are looking for ?" The guy sounds like a hottie. "I'm looking to purchase a gift for a beautiful young lady, who is shopping in your store as we speak." Ah ! She could always make time for that. "Well Mr. ? ..." "Lockwood." The Mayors son ! Lucky girl, thought Tricia . "Well Mr. Tyler Lockwood. Do you have any specifics ?" she asked. He laughed at that. Too bad he was still in High School. It was a really sexy laugh. "I do actually." He told her. She looked at the computer screen on her Mac Pro and hit save. Her report could wait a few minutes.
What can she say. She was a sucker for a good romance.
25 minutes later: Mona's Boutique- Dressing Room
Bonnie had called Caroline a half hour prior. To find out that she'd just left her house and was on her way.
The girls had already tried on a myriad of gowns and dresses in: neutrals, greens, yellows, purples and black. Nothing seemed to fit or fall right. The shop was going to close soon. One could glance out of the tall mullioned windows at the pinks, oranges and lavender shades of dusk. They were about to change and see if they could make it to another store when an attendant walked in.
She was in her mid twenties with shoulder length reddish blonde hair. A pair of slate grey slacks and a pale blue button down shirt- pinned with a white carnation flower, encased her 5'8" frame. In her arms were what Bonnie assumed were dresses in garment bags; one clear, the other burgundy. "Hello ladies ! My name is Tricia. I'm the Assistant Manager." Her tone was light and airy; friendly. "Hi." the two teens replied in unison. "I hear you two girls are attending the fundraiser at Lockwood Manor tonight." "Yeah. But we still haven't, found the right ensamble for the occasion." Elena chimed. Tricia smiled warmly, "We absolutely must fix that. I took the liberty of selecting these for you both. Here you go." she said, passing the clear bag to Elena, who quickly unzipped it to showcase a pretty, low-cut, midnight blue cocktail dress.
The gaberdine was detailed with matching dark blue, iridescent fabric that went along the v-shaped neckline and hem. "Wow ! It's beautiful. I love it." she beamed. "I'm glad. Now, this one is for you." she exclaimed triumphantly to Bonnie. She was about to present her with the bag, when the girl's cellular rang.
"I like that boom boom pow. Them chicks be jackin' my style..." Fergie's melodious voice filled the small area. "Sorry. Will you excuse me for a second ?" "Sure." Ms. Lori nodded, as the green eyed girl ran to purse and grabbed the phone. "Hello ?" "Hey." The deep yet boyish voice of Tyler filled her ears, and she grinned. "Hiya. What's up ?" "I forgot to tell you. Red is my favorite color." he told her. She blinked in confusion, "Huh ?" "You'll figure it out. I'll see you later tonight." and he hung up. Setting the cell inside the canvas bag, she glanced up at her confidant. "Who was that ?" "Tyler." she said matter-of-factly. "What did he say to you ? You seem... lost." her pal prodded. Shrugging she answered "He wanted to tell me what color he likes."
Walking across the golden carpet to where Tricia waited serenely with the mystery dress, Bonnie unzipped the bag and gasped in amazement.
Inside, was the most stunning couture cocktail dress, she'd ever seen.
Strapless bright red tafetta, with a heart shaped bustline. Miniature waves of ruching covered the bodice, while the flared skirt had five inch wide tulle spirals embroidering it- giving the appearance of being covered by roses.
Gingerly she touched the dress. "Oh, this is beyond gorgeous. But, my dad would go ballistic if I pa-" the manager smiled knowingly and released the dress to Bonnie. "There's a note inside. You two have fun tonight. Waving she headed out.
Dangling from the hanger was a small envelope with her name on it. "What's it say ?" Elena spoke over her shoulder, gawking at the red masterpiece. Opening the note, she read it out loud to her.
Bonnie-
Thank You.
-Tyler
"If it means anything, you just might have made a believer outta me. Your going to look phenominal in this !"
The jade eyed beauty was still too dumbfounded to speak. Chuckling, Elena put an arm around her gal pal, "Come on, let's try these baby's on."
As they were preparing to leave the fitting room, Caroline enters, "Totally bumbed that I'm late. Men ! So, what did I miss ?" "Nothing much." they said.
Across the street on the limb of a sycamore tree, that gave one a clear view of the dressing room area. A black crow took to flight.
Basement of Lockwood Mansion: 7:15 pm
"I've already set the box into place. As soon as it's moved the cylinder in the wall will release the verbaine powder. I'll remove my ring long enough to get the witch outside. All you have to do is get Tyler into the cellar and keep him here long enough for me to get the witch off the premises."
"And what if he struggles. What then ? I'm fairly certain he'll go after the girl, then come back and succeed in killing us all."
The man glared. Wondering if he should have hired someone more, efficient. Less whiney. Picking up a long rectangular wooden box from atop a six tier wine rack, he opened it, exposing the eight inch blade to his accomplis. The dagger was made of pure polished silver, which he was as of now, in the process of applying copious amounts of verbaine to. He had to be extremely cautious and handle the plants extract with gloves, less he contaminate himself. "Take this. If he figures it out stab him with this.' he said, after returning it to it's nook, removing the gloves and snapping the lid closed. Passing it to the guardian. "Since our kind can only be killed by a silver bullet thru the
heart- a minor pretense that little bitch came up with. The dagger will wound him temporarily, but the nectar in the flower, will prolong the time it takes for him to heal himself."
Staring at the box, "And then, we perform the ritual ?" "I will conduct it, Yes." " I still don't understand the skamatics of this ? Your delegating me to do something I wouldn't normally do. And I don't have access to all the details. How do we even know vampires will be here ? And are you sure he's in love with this girl ? Will he even aquicise ?"
The man gave a look of utter loathing, eyes a sinister shade of red, making the latter shrink away in fear.
"I'm sorry. I did not mean to offend."
That calmed him some. "The vampires will attend, because they flock to wherever the masses are. They adore being seen, but not noticed. And they know were here, which means they'll try to come after us again. To protect the girl. And the only way to find out how to do that is by reading Emily's letters, one of which, is inside the box. And yes. I'm sure of his emotional attachment to the girl. He loves her. I can sense it."
Glancing down at his platinum Bulgari watch- 7:25 pm- it was time to get into positions. "I thought there was only the one letter from Emily ?"
The gentleman smiled, without mirth. "That is why we need the girl. She possesses the grimoire, which holds the location to the other three notes.' He turned and started up the stairs. "First, we lure those Salvatore boys to the box; after they inhale the verbaine- get the woman to stake them and have the bodies burned. Meanwhile, I get the witch to create a signet ring for Tyler, then take her to Old Fell's Church for the ritual. All you have to worry about is getting him there. He'll have to kill the girl, if he ever wants to be fully human again. It's the only way to break the spell Emily cast. But if he kills her tonight during the full moon, while still in wolf form, he stays immortal. Then we'll finally be done with the Salvatores and the Bennett's."
7:55 pm
Lockwood Mansion was done up in complete grandeur.
His mother and uncle, had spared no expense when putting together this lavishly [if a bit, overdone] affair.
The main entry and foyer had orchids in fuschia and white, lavender and calla lillies in tall ornate vases, which stood sentinel on either side leading up to the grand staircase. All the candles in the chandeliers had been replaced by pink ones in various shades, to provide an almost ethereal ambiance to the aged interior. Mrs. Lockwood had taken it upon herself to open up the main parlor, where the guests were to receive drinks. For them, this was a rare treat. Since the former mayor was the only person who'd ever frequented the space.
Tyler stood at the Main Staircase clad in a tailored black tux with a black silk tie and red rose tacked to his jacket. Greeting those his mother surreptitiously referred to as "Anyone worth their salt." and showing them to the area reserved for cocktails. He watched her now as she stood side by side with Mason, in the entrance. Dressed in a mid-length sleeveless black satin dress, elaborate pearl and diamond necklace with matching earrings, Carol Lockwood was vintage Hollywood personified. Mason, at his full height of 6'3", wore a black designer suit with silk lapels, opting to go for a light blue tie. A few times, Tyler heard whispers of: "He's so handsome", "That's Richard's younger brother", "Wonder what he's like in bed", "So well mannered", Very distinguished" amongst snickers, and giggles from some the female patrons. "Oh, please." grumbled Tyler, as he tried to uphold his passive temperment.
"Well aren't you the very picture of your father !" exclaimed Mrs. Forbes. Who he had to admit, was looking pretty damn hott. "Wow ! Mrs. Forbes, you look great !" he said. And she did; her short blonde hair was slicked back, and she had on a close fitting, shimmery dark grey dress. "Thank you, Tyler." She smirked. "You'd better watch it. Isn't that how you got into trouble at the last party we attended here." remarked a sassy Caroline who was impeccable as usual. Hair pinned up in loose curls to highlight her slender neck and the pink one shoulder number she wore. Laughing he shot back, "Yes. But if I remember correctly, I won that fight." and hugged her. "Yeah, I know. It took me weeks to get rid of the scars." Matt Donovan walked over in a navy blue suit and tie. "Hey bro. How the hell you been ?" The two clapped each other on the back. "If you kids will pardon me, I see someone I'd like to say hello to." Elizabeth said excusing herself.
Tyler looked over to where she was headed and saw Damon walk in accompanied by Stefan, Elena, Jenna and Alaric. He'd known the Salvatores would be there, since they were of the founding families. But it made him anxious, maybe it was the looks of suspicion they cast at him and his uncle.
He became distracted when he caught a glimpse of bright red from the corner of his eye.
Bonnie walked in, and he was proud to see that all the guests were staring at her with something akin to awe and curiosity.
She was aware of the attention she was acquiring, but it was the looks being given by Mason and Damon that made her uncomfortable- for two totally different reasons. Where was Tyler ? Her gaze roved the expanse of the mob, in a vain attempt at locating him. She was so nervous, her hands had begun shaking.
One of the servants announced that it was time to enter the main hall. The throng of visitants made their way inside. Damon took Elizabeth's arm and led her in, tailed by the rest of their party. Caroline asked Matt to meet her there, because she wanted a word with Tyler. Sidling over to where he stood mesmerized by the lady in red, she said conspiratorially "I'm glad she liked the dress. The color suits her. Don't ya think ?"He was caught. "We're just hanging out Care." "Whatever ! The way your gawking and drooling, you look like a wild animal." she sassed. He turned sharply in her direction, giving her a strenuous smile. "Don't appear so worried. I highly endorse this pairing. Well ? Don't just stand there like a stalker, go talk to her ! Go forth knowing that your protected by the 'Forbes Seal of Approval' !" and she left him there.
Bonnie had spotted him a few seconds ago, but couldn't make her legs work. He was sexy as hell in that suit ! It told of well defined, sculpted sinews, broad shoulders and a solid chest, a toned stomach that led to narrow hips and strong legs. The impulse to remove every speck of that finely tailored sit and run her hands over his body was almost dibilitating. First she would start with those sensuous lips of his that constantly demanded her utmost attention. Steadying herself, she came forward.
The foyer was nearly emptied, as they came to meet in the middle. Her hair was in a style reminiscent of Katherine Hepburn, a jeweled clip accenting one side. Tear depot drop diamond hung at her ears and a tennis bracelet encircled her tiny wrist. He spoke, albeit a little gruffly "You look, Amazing." Her smile was dazzling. "Thank you. The dress is beautiful." "Did you wanna head in, or would you like a drink first ?" Cause he was definitely going to need one to refrain from taking her right then and there on floor- and to hell with the guests !
"I'd love a drink, actually." she chuckled.
He decided to utilize his father's study on the upper level, so that they could have a bit of privacy. When they entered, he slid the doors closed, as she preoccupied herself by browsing meticulously around the room. She saw a copy of William Shakespear's ' The Merchant of Venice', tucked between the cushion of a brown leather armchair. She went to examine it.
The pages were frayed on the sides and the dark green cover was faded along the edges and spine. She assumed it once belonged to the Mayor. Opening the cover she saw an inscription:
To Tyler,
I hope you love this story as much I did. Books are the keys to knowledge, son. And knowledge is power.
Happy 5th Birthday !
Love, Dad.
"I see you found out my secret identity. Yes. It's true,... I'm a nerd." Tyler had come up to her, holding two glasses of champagne. His gaze never left her as she absorbed everything. When he saw that she'd located the book, he panicked a little. He had an image to uphold, a school jock reading Shakespeare didn't sit well with him. Giggling, she faced him, "I think it's hott. There's just something about intellectual guys... Very sexy." He smiled widely, "Thank you. I try. Although, some of your praise would have to be bestowed upon my parents. As messed up as they are, they did instill some good qualities in me. This book was one of two gifts my dad gave me, that actually meant something." "May I ask why ?" he shrugged nonchalantly "We were alot closer back then." she nodded. "What's your favorite quote ?" Tyler set the glasses on the end table, then came to stand by her. Gently, he took the book from her and flipped thru some of the pages. When he'd located the one of his choosing he pointed to it and laid the book in her hands. She read silently while he observed her profile, and began reciting from memory.
"Beshrew me, but I love her heartily, for she is wise, if I can judge of her, and fair she is, if that mine eyes be true, and true she is, as she hath prov'd herself; And therefore, like herself, wise, fair, and true. Shall she be placed in my constant soul." She had asked him and he told her. Putting as much of himself and how he felt about her into the words. Bonnie stood there her face a mask of shock; holding the worn copy loosely in her hands. Reaching down, he slid it from her grasp. She wouldn't meet his gaze, but was staring transfixed, at his tie. Her chest was swiftly rising and falling, and he wished he knew what was going thru her mind at this moment. He needed her to look at him, so that he could know what she felt. So, endeavoring he said it again in a way that would definitely get a reaction out of her:
"Malheur à moi, mais je l'aime sincèrement, car elle est sage, si je puis en juger d'elle, et elle est vraie, comme elle l'a elle-nême montré infidèle, et par conséquent, comme elle, sage, juste et vrai. Est-elle être placée dans mon âme constante."
Was he speaking french ? She finally glanced at him and he saw her battling with whatever thoughts and emotions were raging inside of her. She looked like she was going to flee from it, from him. Stepping closer, he placed his hand firmly on her lower back and pulled her into him. Tyler trailed his hand across the smooth skin of her arm and over her shoulders. Bonnie closed her eyes relishing in the feel of his hands on her flesh. She wanted to kiss him so badly, she ached with it. Unconsciously she licked her lips, and inclined her head, causing her soft brown locks to tread over his fingers, which he trailed over her collar bone. Those fingers burnt a path up her neck until they laced thru her hair. His mouth barely brushed hers, as he teased her lips, wanting them to part for him. She did as he wished. He kiss her fully, his tongue delving into her mouth, stealing her breath. Meshing her into his body, she felt the slow burn of his arousal thru the fabric of her dress, which in turn spiked her own fervor. Her arms went around his neck, to support herself, for could no longer feel the floor beneath her feet. When he grazed her bottom lip with his teeth as his palm brushed the side her breast, that drove her to the breaking point.
Sparks began hitting the grate of the fire place. The ash that had settled to the bottom re-ignited and smoldered, making a white hot flame burst to life like a newly risen phoenix. Reluctantly he pulled away, resting his forehead against hers. Seeing the fire he looked to her "How did ? Did you do that ?" but, before she could answer, there was a knock. "Mr. Lockwood ?" "Enter."
It was Lindsay. "Good Evening, Sir. Your family requests your appearance at the party." nodding, he took Bonnie's hand and led her to the main hall.
Damon Salvatore
The place reeked of dogs. Damon thought as he downed his fifth glass of scotch. He presumed that even money couldn't buy decent air freshner. He hadn't wanted to come here at all, but Baby brother and his girl made a big hoopla about the little witch's safety.
Bonnie. As much as she hated him right now, he didn't want anything to happen to her. "Please keep all your derogatory comments to yourself tonight. And try hard not to embarrass anyone." Stefan had said when they were waiting on the Gilbert's front porch. Jeremy answered the door, inviting them in. "ELENA !" he called out. Shortly after, Elena decended the stairs, followed by Bonnie, who hesitated the second she saw him. He smirked at her, she rolled those green orbs of hers, but continued without incident. She looked stunning. Almost regal. "Hi Bonnie !" Damon exclaimed. She glanced at Elena who gave her an uh-oh, sort of expression, when she realized that she'd agreed to his safeguarding, but perhaps should've said, At-a distance. "You ready ? I didn't bring you a corsage. Considering you aren't speaking to me, I thought you'd just set it on fire." he said, offering her his arm. She look at him like he'd grown a third eye or something. "We'll meet you guys out in the car. Jenna and Alaric are waiting." Elena rushed, and tugged Stefan out the door. Bonnie waited until they were out of earshot. "Alright, these are the ground rules: one- this is Not, I repeat Not, a date. Two- no touching. And three- I only agreed to this because Elena worries too much. I don't want you making this into something it's not." She started for the door, but he gripped her arm and made her face him. "I'm sorry for the other day. I wasn't trying to insult you. I'm growing quite fond of you, and it annoyed me that you take risks with your safety." Taken aback, all she could manage to reply was "Oh !... Well ... Apology accepted."
"Good... Wanna hug it out ?" he grinned mischievously. "God ! I seriously don't know why I bother with you." Pushing past him, she stormed down the stairs and into his car. "Oh, come on. WHAT !"
They all agreed that since Damon was better at fighting, she would ride to the party with him. They drove the whole way in silence. Him throwing glances at her the entire time.
When they'd arrived, he saw teen wolf watching her, slobbering all over himself like he was stuck on stupid. Whilst the newest member of the Lockwood clan, Mason (Elizabeth told him) glared at her like he was going to gut her for sport. It was due to that, that the older Salvatore had been keeping tabs on him, and lost track of the young vixen in the crush. He knew where she'd gone. He didn't like it, but he also couldn't argue that she wasn't safe with Tyler. So, with Mrs. Forbes in arm. He chose the greater of the two evils and tailed 'Grizzly Adams'.
Elena had a fit when she found out that Bonnie and Tyler had disappeared. "All I asked you to do was watch over her. What if she in trouble ?" "She's fine- in fact she's more than fine. Her and Scrappy are probably doing the horizontal polka as we speak. Maybe, if you both did that more often, you both wouldn't be so overbearing and brooding all the damn time." Bingo ! The look on her face. Man, she was Katherine to a tee when she got riled. "You know what Damo-" she spat. Stefan hastily interjected "Alright. That's enough. Take a walk Damon." "Gladly."
Standing by the tall glass doors, that opened to the patio and the freshly pampered lawn, he watched the young Bennett's reflection as she finally resurfaced. Face flushed and mouth kiss swollen, she was even prettier than he recalled her being a half hour previous. Tyler escorted her to the floor and swept her into a waltz.
"I knew you Salvatores were conceited, but this goes way beyond self regal." Lockwood.
"Ouch. See. Now, people in glass houses should not throw stones." Damon remarked, wagging his finger at Mason.
Scoffing Lockwood countered "I don't think throwing stones would deter you from your vulgar display of visual gratification." "Says the man who's kin folks favorite past time is licking themselves for lack of more ... enjoyable entertainment." That comment garnered him a low menacing growl from the host of the evening. Smirking, the vampire asked "Now, is that really necessary ? Not very hospitable in my humble opinion.' Looking across the room at his brother who monitoring his and Lockwood's exchange pensively. "Now. What exactly did you want ? I don't believe you ventured over here to exchange ribald banter."
Mason laughed, the noise almost inhuman. "Nothing really. I was just marveling at your fascination with my nephew's new toy. So, tell me Mr. Salvatore, since when do vampires align themselves with witches ?"
"Keep your voice down." Damon warned him. He could feel the dark veins creeping out from underneath his pale skin. Quickly, he turned away from the crowded room, but not before Stefan, Elena and Bonnie glimpsed his display. Alarmed the brooding brother headed over. Damon gripped Mason's forearm "Don't think for one second that I won't slaughter you in front all these people. The only reason your still breathing is because that young lady saved your mangy life. And your nephew's. You don't threaten her. Got me." His baby blues were fading to black, so close was he to the edge, he could see the jagged cliffs below. "So protective. Enamored even... funny, I didn't get the same vibe coming from her. I see not all the Bennett women are prey to your charms. Guess this girl isn't as forgiving of your -transgressions- as Emily was."
That statement knocked Damon for a loop. Mason knew about Emily.
Back when Emily had worked for Katherine, he'd found out that she'd harbored a sort of reverence for him. Who wouldn't. That's why she agreed to help him and Stefan, at a considerable risk to her own life. He remembered the night they'd formed their pact. To protect her family, Bonnie. They had a written letter of agreement, signed in blood. No one knew. The letter had gone missing, along with other letters and personal papers of hers after her trial by the council. And if Mason knew about her, then he must know the location of the letters.
Stefan came to stand by his older sibling, whom had recuperated and was glaring at Lockwood. "Ah. Hello... ?" "Stefan." "Stefan. I was just finishing up an interesting rapport with your brother. You gentlemen have an exciting evening." Bowing slightly, he went to join Carol and Elizabeth.
"Damon. What was that ?" inquired Stefan. "I'll tell you what that was, my friend. We just got our asses handed to us.' They had to find those papers. Tonight ! "We have a problem."
Hope you enjoyed this chapter. :o)
