Circumstances
Pairing: OC/Rebekah
Summary: As much as everyone thought they knew, Jacqueline always managed to prove them wrong. People claim to know who she is, what she's done, what's she's been through - and yet none of them can see all of it. What happens when she meets a certain Original Vampire who sees every little thing about her. From the way she walks to the way she acts... but will Jacqueline allow her supernatural mate to see her past as if they experienced it themselves. Elena bashing..
.
"All of us live with a demon inside. Some days you control the demon, and other days it controls you. And it's always hungry. It feeds on lust and longing. While you slumber, the demon never sleeps. It tempts you into crossing every line you've ever drawn. All the while it tests you, haunts you, and once it's turned your loved ones into enemies, the demon has consumed you whole"
Rebekah Mikaelson, The Originals
QUARANTUNO
JEREMY POV:
He groaned a little when he heard his door open. Rolling over he buried his face into his pillow. It was just too early to be woken up and Jeremy was more then comfortable right where he was.
"Jeremy" Jacqueline sung out in a hushed voice
Jeremy blinked his eyes open and looked up at Jacqueline. She was now kneeling beside his bed to look at him. It was Saturday and Jeremy always slept in on a Saturday ever since Jacqueline had gotten back to Mystic Falls. He frowned at her, wondering why she was waking him and why she was smiling about it.
"Happy Birthday, baby" Jacqueline whispered with a grin.
Jeremy blinked the sleep away and frowned; his birthday?
"It's my birthday already?" He mumbled in surprise.
He hadn't celebrated a birthday since Jacqueline had left Mystic Falls. Though he wasn't about to tell her that, he knew how guilty she would feel if she knew. But how was he supposed to celebrate his birthdays when the one person who made them special was gone?
Jacqueline ran a hand through his messy hair, her fingers gently combing it down.
Jeremy was slightly embarrassed to realise he had missed when she used to do small things like that. He had missed everything about Jacqueline in the time she had been gone. Jeremy knew though, that he had taken her for granted and not realised what he had until it was gone. Once Jacqueline had left town he had been miserable. Way more miserable than after Miranda and Greyson's deaths.
Though he passed it off as grief.
Really, Jeremy had been hating himself for pushing away the only mother he knew. Cause Jacqueline had been like a mother to him and he loved her for it. Miranda might not have wanted a son, not wanted to be a mother, but Jacqueline did and she has stepped up when it hadn't been her job to do so.
Jacqueline had always looked after Jeremy.
She had done that his whole life and without complaint.
Jeremy shuffled back in the bed, like he remembered doing as a small child, and made room for her to join. Jacqueline chuckled and climbed into the bed, holding her arms out for him. Jeremy rested his head on her shoulder and cuddled into her side. He remembered running into Jacqueline's room where there was thunderstorms and she would let him sleep in her bed. He remembered all the times she had held him and when he was upset or hugged him when she was proud.
Jeremy sighed as she wrapped her arms around him comfortably.
Jacqueline was basically his mom and he regretted pushing her away after Miranda and Greyson's deaths. Miranda had never been his mom and Greyson had never been his dad. Neither of them had lifted a finger to take care of him or Elena. Jacqueline had been both parents constantly. Jacqueline had picked up the slack and created a home that he and Elena were happy and safe in. Jacqueline had taken care of all the bad issues with Miranda and Greyson so that he or Elena would never have to.
And what had he done to thank her for it?
Jeremy had ignored her.
He had allowed Elena to push her out of the house and out of Mystic Falls. Jacqueline, despite their phone conversations, had thought he was mad and blamed her this whole time.
He didn't.
Never had.
"I'm sorry" Jeremy said as he choked back emotion. He was 16 or rather, 17 years old now and he didn't need to be crying. Jacqueline always kept herself together and he could do the same.
Jacqueline turned and held him tighter, "It's okay. Everything is alright now" She soothed instantly
Jeremy nodded.
He was the happiest he had been in a few years. The art program Jacqueline got him into was beyond amazing. He had made friends that weren't drug dealers at school. Jacqueline helped him every night with homework and he had been studying enough to where his grades were averaging a B rather than constant fails. Jeremy also wasn't afraid today might be the day he dies permanently. The drama that constantly surrounds Mystic Falls didn't affect him anymore and there was nothing to fear from the Mikaelson's.
Everything was great.
Jacqueline had made life great again for him. Jeremy had called and she had dropped everything to be there for him. Even when he hadn't explained anything to her on the phone. Jacqueline had always been here to take care of him and it only made him more ashamed of how he acted.
"I never should have let you leave" Jeremy said, "I never should have made you feel like you had to"
Jacqueline sighed, "Sometimes, kid, we have to go through shit to learn things"
Jeremy sighed but nodded in agreement anyway. He had learnt a lot in her absence. Not all of it was good, but it made him realise what was important and what he wanted in life. It made him value the simple things like school and family again. It made him realise that he'd never again be angry at Jacqueline for something so insignificant ever again.
He was ashamed that he hadn't realised it before.
Ashamed of the way he acted too.
Jacqueline pressed a kiss to the top of his head. "I remember the years when I was carrying you out of bed in your Spider-Man pyjamas to have breakfast" she chuckled a little
Jeremy laughed, "I remember. I also remember thinking I was so smart for waking up when I heard Elena yelling"
"It was smart" Jacqueline agreed
Jeremy hummed as he nodded, he remembered being proud of his little trick. Jacqueline always woke Elena up first and it gave him time to wake up himself. He never did like the loud ways Jacqueline woke them up, but it had been funny to watch Elena.
"Did you really forget it was your birthday?" Jacqueline asked
Jeremy shrugged, "It was never the same when you were gone" he admitted sadly
"Well do you feel up to celebrating a birthday again?" She asked, "Cause we can do some of the things we always did for your birthday?"
Jeremy smiled and nodded, "I'd like that" he agreed easily. Jeremy found himself looking forward to his birthday again. He remembered how fun Jacqueline always made them as they spent quality family time together.
He'd like that again.
Things were different now though, better but still different. Jeremy's family wasn't just Jacqueline and Elena anymore. It was Tyler, Rebekah, Elijah and even both Kol and Klaus. Jeremy didn't know what she had in mind for today but he knew he'd enjoy it.
He always did.
Cause Jacqueline understood him better than he understood himself.
"Get out of bed then, kid" Jacqueline chuckled and ruffled his hair playfully.
Jeremy swatted her hand away with a snort. "How can I get out of bed when your still locking me in place?" He laughed in amusement but made no move to release his own hold on her.
"It's your birthday. You're supposed to get lots of hugs from me" Jacqueline retorted, "You love it. Don't lie" she teased
Jeremy rolled his eyes but didn't deny it.
He did love it.
Jeremy loved having his mom back, cause that's what she is, his mom.
"Listen so, this isn't part of your birthday presents, alright?" Jacqueline began, "But I was thinking we could head to Fells Church sometime this week. There's one of those art studios there - you can rent a section and it's yours. They have all this professional equipment you can use. I just thought that maybe you might prefer that to working in here"
Jeremy looked up at her and smiled widely. "A professional studio?" He questioned
Jacqueline nodded, "Yeah. I figured we could check it out"
"Isn't that gonna be expensive?" Jeremy asked, knowing that she had spent a lot of money on him lately. Jeremy was glad to have her supporting his art and happy that she encouraged it. However, he didn't want to be the reason she got into financial issues.
Jenna hadn't really had the money for things like this.
"Money isn't an issue you have to worry about" Jacqueline said firmly, "Enjoy being a kid, Jer. You might be 17 now but you can trust that I've got us covered financially. You don't have to grow up so fast. I'll handle the adult stuff, Okay?"
Jeremy nodded.
He was glad to hear that he wouldn't have to think about money. After Jenna was killed money had become a big problem. Elena had barely been home and Jeremy had been struggling to keep his job at the Grill. At least when Alaric had moved in, Jeremy didn't have to worry about food being in the house.
Now he didn't have to worry about any of it.
Cause Jeremy knew that Jacqueline had been taking care of that stuff his whole life. If she was saying there was nothing to worry about then he believed her. "Okay" he agreed, "Then, yeah, I'd like to check out a real studio"
Jacqueline hummed, "We can go this weekend. Now... are you ready to get out of bed yet?"
Jeremy chuckled and nodded
They both sat up and Jacqueline kissed his forehead before leaving him to get ready. Jeremy didn't waste any time in doing just that. He was excited to be celebrating his birthday again. Once he was showered and dressed he jogged down the stairs and into the kitchen. Jeremy smiled at the sight he was met with.
Tyler was sketching at the table.
Rebekah was most likely checking his sister out from where Rebekah stood.
Jacqueline was putting the final touches on the 'birthday breakfast' she always makes.
Jeremy walked into the room, announcing his presence. "Morning" he greeted and took a seat on the stools. The kitchen had been decorated with a few balloons and a Happy Birthday banner on the wall. More than half the table was covered in gifts and coffee was fresh.
"Morning" Rebekah smiled at him
Jeremy returned the smile, he didn't really know Rebekah that well but he liked her anyway. Rebekah was great for Jacqueline and everyone can see that. The two are perfect together. Rebekah's been around the house most nights now. Rebekah and Jacqueline barely spend any time apart anymore. If ones there, the other is nearby. Jeremy was surprised that he didn't actually mind Rebekah being around.
He had thought it might bother him more, but it doesn't.
Cause while Rebekah and Jacqueline are always together - it's not in that obnoxious way where ignore everyone else.
Usually Rebekah helps him with his history homework while Jacqueline cooks dinner. Rebekah sometimes tells him and Tyler about the different famous artists that she and Klaus had met. Rebekah always listens when he or Tyler talk about their days. Even though Rebekah is bad at video games, she still lets Tyler try and teach her anyway.
They aren't one of those couples who forget everyone else.
Most of all though, and Jeremy would never admit to it, but he was relieved Rebekah hadn't come in between his bond with Jacqueline. Rebekah didn't even try to take Jacqueline's focus away from him or Tyler. Instead Rebekah joined in and became part of the family. Jeremy respected that and he was grateful for it. He had seen the way Elena and Jenna got wrapped up in their relationships and forgot all about everyone else.
He didn't want that with Jacqueline.
It made accepting Rebekah a lot easier when that wasn't happening.
"Okay... THE Birthday Breakfast is done!" Jacqueline announced
Jeremy looked at the plate he wasn't sure he would finish. There was hash browns, fruit, waffles, ice cream, whip-cream with cherry's and sprinkles on top. It certainly was a breakfast they could only have on special occasions.
"Is that going to make you sick?" Rebekah wondered as she cast an uncertain look at the plate.
Jeremy grinned, "Probably"
Jacqueline snorted and shrugged indifferently. This had been THE Birthday Breakfast Jacqueline had made in every single one his, Tyler's and Elena's birthdays since as far back as Jeremy could remember. He was sure she had probably been younger than him when she decided on the tradition.
He didn't care though.
It was great!
They all went to sit at the table to eat. Jeremy was beyond full once he had finished. Thankfully Tyler had taken the bacon from his plate. Jacqueline had happily snatched the cherry's but still reprimanded Tyler for doing the same. Jeremy hadn't stopped smiling all morning as they sat around talking.
The banter was fun.
It reminded of him of simpler times that Jeremy had missed a lot over the years. He was grateful to have them back now. Though Jeremy was also happy for the new things in his life at the moment too. Like Rebekah, who he discovered was actually quite funny.
The banter between them all had his stomach aching after laughing so hard.
"Alright" Jacqueline smiled as she finished her coffee. "Tyler does the dishes. Jer, you can start opening those gifts if you want - I have to call the Coven for my updates but I'll be back in 30 minutes. Alright?"
Jeremy nodded and hugged her as he moved to open his presents.
"And Jeremy" Jacqueline gave him a look as she paused in the doorway. "If you make a mess with that wrapping paper - birthday punches will be fair game"
He smirked.
"I think she might have been serious" Rebekah chuckled as she watched Jacqueline disappear upstairs.
Jeremy nodded, "She doesn't make threats she won't follow through on"
Tyler snorted, "But she does make some creative ones!"
Jeremy nodded in agreement as he sat down to open gifts at the table. He made sure to keep the paper in one pile as not to make a mess. He opened the video games from Tyler and was surprised to see the group player games.
"Cool" Jeremy gave Tyler a thankful nod
Jeremy opened the next few gifts which were all from Jacqueline. She filled a big box with a bunch of clothes for him - he smiled a little at that gift. Jacqueline was always making sure he had everything he needed. The next one from Jacqueline was new paints from Paris, wireless headphones, a new skateboard and a punching bag.
"This is great!" Jeremy said happily before he looked at the other gifts in confusion. "Wait these have different paper. Who are those from?"
Rebekah smiled, "My brothers and I also purchased you gifts" She announced
Jeremy was surprised, especially considering who her brothers are, but it was a good surprise. While Jeremy considered Rebekah family now - especially with the BloodBond thing thats basically like supernatural marriage. However, he hadn't realised that the Mikaelson's considered him family.
"Thanks" Jeremy said nodding, "I didn't realise you guys even knew it was my birthday. Especially not your brothers"
"Well, considering my and Jacqueline's relationship is forever" Rebekah began, "Myself and my brothers hope to make you feel welcome. We're all family now. I'd like to get to know you and Tyler"
"I'd like that" Jeremy agreed easily, "I already consider you family... I just didn't realise all the Mikaelson's are now family" he said
Rebekah chuckled, "If there's one thing to know about us Mikaelson's - it's that nothing is more important than family. We may fight and argue and do nasty things... but that's just what happens when you've been together for a 1000 years"
"Man that's so weird to think about" Tyler said, "Your entire family was alive a thousand years ago..."
"It is" Rebekah hummed in agreement
Jeremy nodded and went back to opening his gifts. He wasn't really sure what to expect. With Tyler and Jacqueline he knew that they would pick something he'd like.
They knew him better than most.
However, he wasn't sure what to expect from Rebekah and her brothers.
Jeremy opened Rebekah's gift first. He was surprised to see a pair of new Vans and tickets to a concert. "Wow" he said and looked at Rebekah in gratitude. "Thanks"
Rebekah smiled.
Jeremy stood and hugged the blonde vampire. He felt her give a surprised pause before she hugged him back. "Thanks Rebekah"
"I'm glad you like it" Rebekah said as they pulled away
He nodded, "I really do. I love this band"
Rebekah sheepishly nodded, "I heard you listening to them" She said in explanation
"Do you still have more gifts to open?" Jacqueline asked as she jogged back down the stairs. Jacqueline looked around the room and smiled when she saw he had opened the concert tickets. "Did you like it?" She asked him
Jeremy nodded, "I do. I liked everything you guys got me. Thanks"
Jacqueline pressed a kiss to the top of his head as she passed. Jacqueline stopped to ruffle Tyler's hair before moving to sit beside Rebekah at the table.
"Who's next then?" Tyler asked prompting him to open more.
Jeremy rolled his eyes but picked the next gift up. "Elijah" he announced and curiously opened the box. Inside was a freaking nice watch and a bottle of cologne.
"That's very Elijah-like" Jacqueline smirked
Rebekah snorted.
"I've never had cologne before" Jeremy said as he smelled the bottle. He had to agree that it was very Elijah-like as Jacqueline had said. Though Jeremy liked the gift anyway. It felt like a more manly gift and he hadn't really gotten something like that before.
Jeremy thought that was great.
His old watch had broken in a fight with Damon. Now Jeremy would have a better one and with less chances of it breaking.
"This one is from Klaus" Jeremy said as he picked the biggest gift up.
That was very Klaus-like as well. Jeremy wasn't surprised Klaus' gift had been the biggest of than all. Klaus was kinda like that in everything the man does. Jeremy never minded though. Klaus could be cool just as often as he could be an asshole.
Jeremy unwrapped the gift and was taken by surprise when it revealed to be a guitar.
A real, proper guitar.
"I did not expect that" Rebekah admitted quietly
"Me neither" Jeremy nodded as he opened the case. "But It's great. It's really great" he nodded gratefully
Jacqueline hummed in agreement, "You'll have to thank him at dinner tonight"
Jeremy looked up at the news but nodded anyway. He had figured there would be some dinner tonight. Jacqueline had taken him and Elena out for dinner for birthdays before too.
He was happy it was going to include the Mikaelson's.
Ever since Rebekah and Jacqueline started dating they had all been spending time together. There was usually a weekly family dinner where they were all required to attend. Jacqueline even teleports Davina from New Orleans to attend. The nights always a lot of fun though. Jeremy found that he actually looked forward to dinners with the Mikaelsons.
"Kol's gift makes me nervous" Jacqueline said eyeing the boxes.
Rebekah nodded, "He was looking rather confident that Jeremy would like them" She commented but eyed the boxes with the same wariness as Jacqueline.
Tyler laughed, "This is gonna be great! Jeremy either gets a good gift or a good show of Jacqueline killing Kol"
Jacqueline didn't deny the accusation of possibly killing Kol.
Jeremy laughed and unwrapped the largest box. It was a baseball batt and glove - a good gift. Jeremy wasn't big on sports but he had always enjoyed baseball. Though he hadn't played since before things in Mystic Falls got complicated.
"That was rather mundane" Rebekah murmured
Jacqueline nodded, "Yeah..."
Jeremy unwrapped the last gift, it was a set of movies. He turned the box over to see the film and frowned uncertainly as he eyed the title.
"What?" Tyler asked and looked over his shoulder. "Oh man that's great!" Tyler laughed loudly
Rebekah turned to look closer and exchanged an uncertain look with Jacqueline. Rebekah sighed, "I do believe this is-"
"Porn" Jacqueline muttered and swiftly took the box set from him. "Kol got Jeremy porn films. I swear to god I'm gonna kill him!"
Rebekah grimaced
Tyler snickered, "Kol is in soooo much trouble now"
Jeremy almost felt back for the guy...
"I can feel your anger" Rebekah murmured lowly as she cast Jacqueline another questioning look. "What exactly do you plan to do to Kol? Not that I don't think he deserves it... but details would be nice"
Jacqueline looked at her girlfriend, "I haven't decided yet, to be honest" she answered truthfully
Rebekah nodded.
Jacqueline sighed as she tried her best to let go of some of the anger at Kol sending Jeremy porn films for his birthday gift. When she had seen the baseball bat she momentarily thought Kol was being genuine. It had made her feel like an asshole for doubting him. Then Jeremy opened the second gift... and Jacqueline had wanted to gorge Kol's eyes out for suggesting Jeremy watch those movies.
Jeremy was too young for that!
Way, way, way too young to be watching anything like that!
Jacqueline knew for a fact that Elijah had given Kol a firm explanation on what was appropriate and what was not. She had heard Elijah explaining it to Kol. It had been needed though, especially during Kol's acclimation to the 21st century. Cause while explicit material may be more easily available and considered more normal than it once had - there are still boundaries.
Jacqueline thought she had made those clear.
Then again, Kol was the type to push boundaries when given them.
Rebekah's arms wrapped around her waist. Jacqueline smiled as she looked at her girlfriend who had spent the rest of their day helping in the kitchen cooking for tonight's family dinner for Jeremy. They had made a small array of foods that were all Jeremy's favourites. Rebekah had even procured blood for her siblings to drink while Jacqueline had been in charge of selecting the bourbon. They had spent their day getting things ready for tonight while Jeremy had invited his friends over for the day.
The boys had pretty much played video games all day.
Though Jacqueline had to raise a brow at the loud cursing that had come from the living room a few times. Those kids had sure been aggressive an creative in their cursing!
"Thank you for helping out today" Jacqueline said as she pulled Rebekah closer while they stood in the kitchen. Her arms wrapped around Rebekah's waist before she pecked her girlfriend on the lips.
Rebekah hummed against her mouth, "It was my pleasure. I enjoyed spending the day with you - even when doing simple cooking"
Jacqueline rested her forehead against Rebekah's as she enjoyed just pausing for the first time today. They had been on their feet all day. Though despite that, Jacqueline had enjoyed spending the time with Rebekah anyway. They had spent the whole day talking and joking while they got food prepared or the kitchen cleaned again. It had been a rather 'mundane' compared to all the supernatural drama filled days but it had been great nonetheless.
All that life and death made you appreciate the small moments even more...
Jacqueline just hoped Jeremy was happy with how today turned out. Even if it wasn't the most exciting.
Jeremy asked Tyler to go with him to the concert in a few days. It would be both boys first time going to do something in the city on their own. Rebekah had booked rooms at a nice hotel for them. The boys were excited to be doing one of those fundamental teenage experience things with no supervision. Enzo - who had facetimes to finally meet Jeremy a few weeks ago - had even sent a 300 hundred dollars for the boys to buy something while in the city.
Jacqueline wasn't as excited about the idea of it all as Jeremy and Tyler were but she was letting them go nonetheless.
She'd been doing worse when she was there age anyway...
"That's my brothers" Rebekah said, clearly having heard their cars pull up.
Jacqueline hummed in agreement as she pressed another kiss to Rebekah's lips. This time Rebekah quickly deepened the kiss before they would be distracted the rest of the night. They only pulled away when the doorbell rang.
No doubt Elijah being respectful.
Kol and Klaus would have just waltzed inside like they owned the place if not for Elijah.
Jacqueline walked over and opened the door as Tyler and Jeremy bound down the stairs. "Come on" she beckoned them inside the house, knowing they had already been invited in.
"Hey!" Jeremy nodded at the Mikaelson men as they walked into the house. "Thanks for the gifts. You guys didn't have to do that"
Elijah gave Jeremy a small smile, "It was our pleasure, I assure. How has your Birthday been as of yet?"
Jeremy nodded his head, "It's been great!"
Tyler looked at Klaus and Elijah as they all moved into the dining room. "Jer and I've been betting on what we think Jacq is gonna do to Kol" Tyler smirked
Klaus snorted, "What did Kol do now? He's been particularly happy today. I thought it was suspicious"
"He gave Jeremy porn films for his birthday" Tyler announced looking far too amused for Jacqueline's liking.
Jacqueline didn't happen to find it all that funny She was aware that had it been someone else Kol gave the gift to, it likely would have been funnier. However, Jeremy was too young to be looking at things like that and Jacqueline didn't want Kol encouraging it. All she could see when she looked at Jeremy right now was that childlike joy as her mind flashed with memories of baby Jeremy. Kol wasn't going to be allowed to ruin that safe image in her head by giving Jeremy adult movies!
Elijah had been specific about what was off limits and this most certainly qualified.
Klaus laughed, "I take it Jacqueline wasn't happy, mate?"
"Not at all" Jeremy chuckled with a shake of his head
Elijah coughed slightly in discomfort and turned to give Kol a look of disapproval. Elijah sighed and looked between Rebekah and Jacqueline. "I apologise for the inappropriate gift. I do hope it did not ruin the morning festivities"
"It did not, brother" Rebekah gave Elijah a small smile, before she too, sent Kol an unpleasant look.
"Darling, it could have been a lot worse" Kol grinned in amusement. "From what I understand it wasn't like you were doing much better at 17-"
"Kol" Rebekah hissed, "I'd be a lot nicer to her if I were you. She is contemplating the consequences you'll face for your actions"
"I've already decided" Jacqueline said calmly as a small amount of magic crackled in the air. Though no more than normally could be felt in Jacqueline's presence. It was the announcement made them all pay a little more attention to it now than they usually do. Jacqueline remained calm as she brushed past them all and went into the kitchen.
She smirked as they hesitated in following.
Jacqueline liked that she was able to make even The Mikaleson's wary. Though she would never do anything to hurt them. She supposed Kol wouldn't enjoy his punishment as much as she would though.
Still... he would be free of physical harm regardless.
"What have you done, love?" Klaus asked with a sly grin as he followed her into the kitchen.
Jacqueline gave a small hum as she replied, "I just used a tiny little bit of magic. It's affects will wear off within 24 hours, of course. I'm not yet sure if it'll be effective in this situation but I've always to try this use of magic" she said vaguely as she glanced at Kol who looked to be a little less amused than he was a few seconds ago.
Rebekah grinned, "Well. Who's ready for dinner?"
Elijah nodded, "It smells delightful" he complimented
Kol nodded in agreement, "It does indeed. Jacqueline and Rebekah have done a wonderful job cooking, I have no doubt" the sincerity in his voice earnt him a few surprised looks from everyone.
Jacqueline chuckled.
Kol frowned to himself a little as he took his seat at the table.
Jacqueline wondered if he was thinking about the compliments he gave them. She didn't plan on informing him of the spell she had cast to ensure he gave constant and sincere sounding compliments all night. Jacqueline figured that half the fun would be watching his confusion at why he was saying them when he probably didn't really mean them.
Jacqueline and Rebekah went into the kitchen to bring the food to the table.
Everyone would be able to serve themselves tonight as they all sat around and ate. They set out the dishes of food and everyone dug in and plated their own portions.
"Man why can't we have cheese casserole more often" Tyler asked as he scooped a particularly large portion onto his plate. "It's one of my favourites" he added
Kol took a bite from his own plate. "This food is delicious! Some of the best food I've ever had" he complimented
Klaus raised brows at Kol who simply went back to eating.
"Thank you Kol" Jacqueline smiled more to herself than him as she looked up from her food briefly. "You're so sweet" she couldn't resist the jab.
Kol made a face of at her words.
"You're sweet" Kol said back and then scowled at the table.
Elijah looked bewildered
"Kol?" Rebekah ventured, "Are you quite alright?"
"Perfect" Kol snapped
Rebekah just shrugged as she went back to eating her food. Everyone was talking about their days and the latest with the supernatural going's on. Even though their conversation were sometimes about the supernatural, it was all very drama free.
"I've received work of someone attempting to contact me about a plot against me" Klaus announced with a shrug, "I will be leaving for a few days to find out what it's about"
Elijah nodded, "Are you sure it's credible?"
Klaus shrugged, "I don't know. However, the vampire who passed the message on is credible. I'll look into it and handle it, Elijah, don't worry"
"Klaus is always efficient in eliminating threats. A force to be reckoned with" Kol said without being able to help himself.
Klaus's brows rose and his eyes narrowed at the odd compliment.
Kol scowled, "I did not mean to say that" he sulked
Elijah nodded slowly and stared at Kol as if he would sprout another head at any moment. "Kol, are you sure you're feeling well?" Elijah asked
"You're concern is touching brother. Always looking out for us, brother, you do it well" Kol said before he could stop himself, though the scowl on his face deepened.
Tyler suddenly grinned, "Hey did anyone try the salad?" he asked before casting a sly glance in Jacqueline's direction and then back at Kol.
Kol sighed, "It was excellently prepared" he said
"You know..." Jacqueline drew out as she realised Tyler and Jeremy had caught onto what she had done. She looked coyly at Rebekah before chancing a glance in Kol's direction. "It took Rebekah an hour to do her hair this morning"
Rebekah frowned at her in confusion
"Rebekah's hair does look rather nice today" Kol said as his eyes narrowed suspiciously on Jacqueline. "As does yours, Jacqueline, you both look fetching today of course"
Jacqueline widened her eyes innocently and nodded at Kol in thanks. "I agree, Kol. You're compliment's are much appreciated"
Kol sulked.
"Something you'd like to fill us in on, Jacqueline?" Klaus asked with the beginnings of a smirk forming on his face.
"I suppose..." Jacqueline nodded, "I didn't think it would be quite like this, but, Kol's need to give frequent compliments will only last 24 hours."
Klaus barked out laughter looking delighted at the idea of Kol having to go 24 hours giving compliments to them all. Kol only sulked more after his suspicions were confirmed. Tyler and Jeremy laughed as they offered more opportunities for Kol to give compliments he didn't particularly mean. Elijah's face pinched slightly as he tried not to laugh outright at Kol's discomfort. Rebekah grinned and chuckled as her hand interlaced with Jacqueline's on her lap.
"Happy Birthday, Jeremy" Rebekah grinned at the 17 year old. "I hope you've had an enjoyable day"
"Yes, this has been a splendid party" Kol had no choice but to say, before going right back to sulking.
Jeremy chuckled.
Jacqueline's phone rang and she sighed as Damon's name flashed across the screen. He didn't call her often though and so she knew it was important if he did. "Hello, Damon" Jacqueline greeted as she brought the phone to her ear.
"Jacqueline" Damon sounded a little unsure of himself
Jacqueline frowned as she sat in her car, not getting out to go into the tattoo store just yet. She had a feeling this conversation might mean she was needed somewhere else first. "Damon?" she prompted
"Listen... uh, now don't go all witchy-voodoo on me until you hear the whole story" Damon said hesitantly
Jacqueline grit her teeth, "Spit it out then, Damon" she said bracing herself for something she wasn't going to like hearing. Jacqueline just hoped that whatever the situation, it wasn't too bad.
There was only so much she could fix, after all.
"Alright so. When Katherine heard that you and Rebekah were, uh, girlfriends, Katherine showed up in town again. Apparently Katherine thought kidnapping you or Rebekah or I don't even know - it had something to do with kidnapping!" Damon rambled
"Damon!" Jacqueline snapped in exasperation, "Hurry up and get to the point" she said knowing all this additional detail was avoidance of telling her the real issue.
Which meant it was bad.
"Some thing's happened recently and Elena turned off her emotions. Katherine was supposed to be scaring her into turning them back on again... When Jeremy got here to see Elena... Katherine and Elena had been fighting. Katherine decided it was time to change that plan - she forced Jeremy to drink her blood..."
Anger.
Pure ice cold rage flooded Jacqueline's veins.
Magic swelled around her in the air that she was positive humans would pick up on the feeling as well. Jacqueline didn't say anything yet and neither did Damon as she processed what she was hearing. However, she knew Damon wasn't done explaining and that filled her with equal amounts of anger and dread.
"Speak" Jacqueline's voice was low and eerily calm
She didn't really have any other choice than to cling to the ounce of composure she had left. Jacqueline knew she had to understand what had happened and that meant listening to Damon. However, with the possibility of Jeremy being in trouble... it was enough to send her into a fit of uncontrollable rage.
That wasn't what Jeremy needed from her right now though.
Jacqueline kept that in mind.
"Uh, yeah, well no-humanity Elena is a bitch! Katherine might have been bluffing, I don't really know, but Elena just didn't care." Damon sighed, "Elena snapped Jeremy's neck. When Katherine pointed out that Jeremy didn't have his ring on... "
Jeremy's dead?
No, not dead - in transition to become a vampire.
"Where is my baby boy, Damon?" Jacqueline asked through gritted teeth as her hands tightened on the steering wheel. The wind outside was starting to pick up all throughout town. It carried the humm of her magic and anger through it. The sky turned dark grey in Mystic Falls as lightening crackled dryly on the hot day.
"Salvatore Boarding house" Damon barely got out before she had hung up on him.
Jacqueline didn't bother starting the car up as she reached out with her endless amounts of magic. Teleporting without blood was a little more dangerous but all the emotion fuelling her magic she doubted she needed the anchor anyway. Jacqueline felt Rebekah's attempt at sending a soothing wave of calmness but she ignored it. Nothing, not even Rebekah, could calm her down until she was with Jeremy again.
All was still in her mind.
Then she was moving and stumbling forward in the middle of the Salvatore Boarding house.
Jacqueline looked around the parlour with rage clearly contorted on her face. Damon and Alaric were drinking rather large pours of bourbon as they stared warily out the window at the sudden tornado.
Stefan was holding Elena as she cried and tried clutching Jeremy's hand.
They all gave a pause when magic suddenly erupted into the room with more raw power and rage than one should be capable of. Honestly, Jacqueline had never thought her emotions could ever be strong enough to cause this much damage in the first place. Though her mind at the moment was focused solely on Jeremy laying limp on the floor.
Dead.
Jeremy dead on the floor while his murder cried like she was victim here.
Jacqueline's hand lashed out and sent both Stefan and Elena flying away from Jeremy. She dropped to her knees beside his body and gathered him into her arms. Jacqueline let tears flow silently down her face as she ignored everything else occurring around her.
She just held him.
Her magic probed his body for life and found only the aura of someone in transition.
Jacqueline sighed and held him tightly as her arms tightened around him. His limp head falling to her chest as she rested her chin on his forehead. "I'm so sorry" Jacqueline whispered as pain gripped her heart. Tears streamed silently down her face as images of Jeremy as a baby were clouded by his pale, lifeless body.
"He's in transition" Elena sniffled
Jacqueline's looked into Elena's brown eyes that were wide with hurt and tears. She sneered, "Stay the hell away from us!" Jacqueline spat out the words with more venom than she'd ever possessed in her life.
Elena jerked back in hurt, "W-what?"
"Jacqueline..." Stefan frowned in disapproval. "This wasn't Elena's fault. Her humanity-"
"She killed my baby!" Jacqueline roared as he Salvatore Boarding house's foundation shook violently. Rage consumed her entire body but she never made a move to let Jeremy go. She clutched him to her chest and ignored the surprised looks she was getting both from her words and the hatred plainly in them. "Take one more step and I swear I'll rip you limb from fucking limb!" she snarled violently
Elena's lip wobbled, "How could you say that? I-I didn't mean-"
Jacqueline's eyes were cold and furious as she looked at Elena and lashed out with magic. Elena screamed loudly as she was brought to her knees in pain. Slashes and deep cuts appeared all over Elena's body as she screamed. Jacqueline watched the scene indifferently as she finally accepted the fact that little 'Lena Gilbert was long dead.
Elena Gilbert wasn't not Jacqueline's family.
This doppelgänger was a curse to anyone who got near enough and Jacqueline had no qualms about killing Elena.
Not anymore.
Not when this bitch had just killed Jeremy and has the nerve to stand there looking like the victim. Like any anger or blame being directed towards her was unfathomable.
"Jacqueline!" Stefan snapped, "Stop!"
The ice cold glare sent Stefan's way came with the additional wave of magic that crushed every single bone in his body. Stefan gasped and attempted to write in pain on the floor as his body put itself back together again. Elena seemed to hear her boyfriends cries and stood up, glaring at Jacqueline before rushing forward. Jacqueline barely batted an eye as her magic lashed out again and took Elena down.
Jaqueline caved Elena's skull in.
Blood painted the Salvatore floor and both Damon and Alaric wisely stood to the side. The storm outside threatened to do more property damage than Jacqueline cared about.
Jacqueline had a wild look in her eyes that was enough to kill all on it's own...
"Jacqueline!" Rebekah's voice yelled in panic as the Salvatore Boarding house doors busted open. Rebekah, Elijah, Kol and Klaus all rushed inside but stopped dead in their tracks at the sight they found.
"What is happening here?" Elijah regained his composure first though his eyes were unusually wider than normal.
Damon winced, "Non-humanity Elena is a bitch" he said quietly as he nodded in Jeremy's direction.
Jacqueline ignored them all as she soothingly ran her fingers through Jeremy's hair and held him close. She knew it would be a few more hours before Jeremy woke up again but once they were safe she would shorten that time. Right now all she could do was hold Jeremy as she tried to from a coherent thought in her mind on what to do next.
Could she find a way to reverse this?
In theory, if she considered sacrificial magic, she should be able to keep him human once he wakes. It would mean she would have to start making preparations as soon as he's awake if she was going to perform it in time. Not to mention she would have to reach out to the coven to make sure she could get her hands on the precise ritual.
With something as powerful as this, there would be no room for mistake.
Even the smallest mistake would ruin everything...
Jacqueline let the tears fall from her eyes as she looked at Jeremy's limp body that wasn't hugging her back. It felt wrong - so very wrong, to be holding him without him holding her back.
Jeremy always hugged back.
"Jacqueline" Rebekah was at their side in an instant. "Baby, we should take him home... he'll be awake soon enough" Rebekah whispered through her own tears.
"He'll want to be home when he wakes up" Jacqueline agreed with a horse voice. "I'll have to explain it to him - and he'll have to decide" she added smoothing a kind hand down his back as if to comfort him despite the fact he wasn't alive to need it.
Rebekah sniffled a little as she nodded and reached out for Jacqueline. Rebekah's arms hugging both Jacqueline and Jeremy on the floor for a second as they both allowed what had happened sink in. Jacqueline nodded as she glanced at Rebekah and reached out with her magic. Ensuring it was strong and determined enough to get them home without any sort of anchors. Jacqueline's eyes fell closed as she focused in on teleporting them home again.
All went still.
Then they had the air knocked out of them as they landed on the floor in Jacqueline's bedroom.
Rebekah hiccupped.
Jacqueline steeled herself as she focused on the fact that he was going to wake up again. That was all that she could allow to matter at the moment. Especially if she wanted to make sure he has a real option when he wakes up again. Jacqueline sighed and stood up - carrying Jeremy in her arms as she placed him in her bed.
"I'll get a washcloth for the blood" Rebekah said quietly and went into the bathroom.
Jacqueline was glad because she didn't want him to get scared if he woke up with blood on his hands and face. She gave her girlfriend a small smile as Rebekah wiped Jeremy's skin free of the blood that had got on him. Meanwhile Jacqueline focused on making sure he was comfortable in the bed with all the pillows and blankets he could need.
"I- I've gotta make a call for a minute" Jacqueline said
Rebekah grabbed her hand, pulling her into Rebekah's arms whether she had wanted a hug or not. However, Jacqueline didn't think she was ever going to be capable of pushing Rebekah away.
Not even right now.
Jacqueline felt Rebekah's arms wrap around her waist and she clung to her girlfriend. Jacqueline took in the waves of comfort, reassurance and safety that Rebekah was sending her way. Right now Jacqueline needed anything she could get to keep her going because now there were things she needed to do for Jeremy.
Something Jacqueline was currently learning is that she doesn't do well with helplessness...
"You're brothers are here" Jacqueline said hoarsely as all her senses were in use.
Rebekah nodded and they both held hands as they walked down the stairs to greet Rebekah's brothers. Thankfully Elijah didn't bother with politeness as he let himself, Klaus and an oddly silent Kol into the house. They all moved into the living room before anyone actually spoke.
"The storm feels like angry magic" Kol said as he gave Jacqueline a questioning look.
Jacqueline hummed rather indifferently, "I'm going to call the Coven and talk to someone about that"
"Damon told us what happened" Elijah ventured carefully, "I will personally aid Jeremy in making an informed decision if you wish me to. Though - if he goes through with the transition - he will have us as family to teach him, rest assured"
"Thanks" Jacqueline nodded before she turned to Rebekah tiredly. "Do you think you could give Tyler a call? Jeremy won't be awake for at least another hour but I should give the news to Tyler before that happens."
Rebekah nodded easily, "Sure. I can tell Tyler if you want?"
Jacqueline hummed, "I won't be that long on the phone with the Coven I don't think, but, if you want to tell him then that's fine" she agreed before giving Rebekah a quick kiss before walking upstairs again.
Tyler would be here soon and he would want to see her then.
Jacqueline slipped into Jeremy's room and sat on his bed as she pulled out her phone. She sighed as she put up a privacy barrier in the room. She noticed that there were a few missed calls from Giovanni and wondered what that was about as she hit call.
"Jacqueline?" Giovanni answered immediately
"Hey, Giovanni" Jacqueline quietly greeted her grandmother.
"Are you okay, hon?" Giovanni asked, "I could feel your distress through the familial bond"
Oh.
Jacqueline sighed, "Jeremy was killed. He's in transition to become a vampire now and I just got home" she admitted knowing Giovanni would knew how much Jeremy meant to her with all the stories she had told over the years of him.
"Oh, honey" Giovanni sighed, "No wonder you were so distressed. Is poor Jeremy awake yet?"
"Not yet. I was calling because I remember there being a sacrificial ritual that's a loophole to the transition period. It can only be performed by a BloodWitch and I want to know if it's an option for Jeremy... he's only just turned 17 yesterday" Jacqueline murmured
Giovanni sighed, "Honey... If Jeremy wants to remain human then I will send you that ritual guide. However, I need to know that you understand the cost of such a spell?"
"Innocent lives will have to be taken" Jacqueline said knowing that 'the balance' could never be ensured if people didn't die in Jeremy's place. With magic like this ritual would require - one person's life wouldn't be enough. It would for all purposes be a slaughter of at least 10 people. Possibly even more with how old the vampire siring Jeremy was.
Magic like this isn't supposed to be undone.
"I understand what I have to do" Jacqueline agreed, "I just needed to make sure I'll be able to do it right"
"You will be" Giovanni assured
"Thank you, Giovanni" Jacquelin said, "Listen. Tyler just got here and someone's going to have to explain this to him. I'll call you when Jeremy wakes up. Alright?"
"Alright. You'll be okay in the end Jacqueline" Giovanni assured confidently before they both hung up the phone.
Jacqueline really hoped Giovanni was right as she headed out of Jeremy's bedroom and down the stairs. She had heard Tyler walk into the house and she wanted to be there when they tell him what's happened. Jacqueline looked out to the window to see that while there was still some wind, the stormy sky and lightening had gone.
The more that the shock wore off, the calmer she got.
"What's going on?" Tyler was asking from in the kitchen.
Jacqueline passed a grim looking Elijah, Klaus and Kol in the living room as she followed the voices into the kitchen. Rebekah was sitting at the with Tyler at the table when she walked in. Judging by the look on both their faces, Rebekah had told Tyler already.
Tyler's head shot up, "Jacq?!" he demanded
Jacqueline simply walked over to him and upon seeing the look in his eyes, opened her arms for him. Tyler hugged her quickly as his heart raced so fast she could feel it while they hugged. Jacqueline soothingly ran her hand across his back and hugged him tightly. She wasn't really sure who she was comforting more right now, him or herself?
Didn't matter much though...
It was a shock and they both seemed to need a little comfort at the moment.
Jacqueline knew Jeremy wouldn't pick death but she didn't honestly know if he would rather become a vampire now or remain human. She knew that Jeremy eventually wanted to turn eventually. But eventually and now are two different things. All Jacqueline knew was that she wasn't going to let Jeremy die. She didn't mind all that much about what had to be done to achieve that.
"We should go wake him up" Jacqueline said as she pulled away from Tyler
Tyler sighed, "Don't you have to, like, wait for him to..."
Jacqueline nodded, "Yeah but I can speed it up a little now" she said before trudging up the stairs. Jacqueline went into her bedroom and sat on the bed beside Jeremy. She reached out with her magic and brought his consciousness forward in his mind.
She also allowed her magic to quell any lust for blood he might feel.
Jeremy was going to have to choose and he needed to be of sound mind. If hunger began to control him, he could do something he would regret. It was best he be level headed while deciding what he wants.
Jeremy gasped awake.
He sat up and looked around the room frantically. His mind recalling the last moments before he was killed. Jeremys heart raced as his eyes zoned in on Jacqueline.
Jacqueline sighed sadly.
Jeremy didn't say anything as he clung to her and held her tightly. He knew what had happened, she knew he did. But right now he needs comfort after being killed.
Jacqueline willingly gave it to him.
She ran her hands soothingly along his back as she held him closely. Her magic making sure he wouldn't feel any urge to drink blood yet. "Jeremy?" She prompted
"Yeah?" He croaked quietly
"If you don't want to go through with the transition... I can fix this. I can make sure you remain human" Jacqueline said.
She knew how.
It wouldn't be pretty and innocent blood would be spilt, but Jeremy didn't need to know that. That blood would be on her hands and her hands alone. If Jeremy wanted to remain human then she would make it happen.
No matter the cost.
Klaus, Elijah, Kol and Rebekah looked at her sharply - their eyes searching to see if she really could do it. They had all shuffled into the room with Tyler lagging behind them.
Tyler hadn't needed to see Jeremy dead...
Jacqueline met Rebekah's questioning look with a grim nod. "I can do it. I know the spell I'd have to do" Jacqueline said out loud though she only need one persons approval; Jeremy.
"Really?" Tyler asked curiously
Jacqueline nodded and held Jeremy tighter, "I'm a BloodWitch, remember? My magic has very few limits"
Kol frowned, "A spell like that..." he seemed to be thinking of the implications of such a spell.
Klaus looked uneasy at the idea of it too.
"Can only be done when in transition" Jacqueline assured seeing the slight worry in Klaus eyes at the knowledge.
Klaus looked relieved.
"Just think about it, Jer, cause if you drink blood then there's nothing I can do. You have a choice either way, alright? But you are not gonna die, okay?" Jacqueline said firmly
Jeremy nodded, "I can't believe Elena killed me!" He whispered
Jacqueline held him tighter, "She's not our little Lena anymore" she said though she wasn't sure who needed the reminder more. Jacqueline couldn't believe it either and if Jeremy didn't need her, she'd of killed Elena and those Salvatores already.
She grit her teeth.
Jeremy sighed as his face was buried in her shoulder.
Jacqueline looked up at Rebekah who gave her a sad yet supportive smile. "Jer" She urged him to sit up. "Beka is gonna explain it to you, alright? She'll tell you the good and the bad. Everything you need to know"
Rebekah sat down in the bed and gave Jeremy a smile. "If it's not the life you want then don't be ashamed of that. You're the one who will have to live with this" Rebekah said
Jeremy hesitantly nodded as he held Jacquelines hand and listened attentively to Rebekah's cautions. This was Jeremy decision and neither woman was trying to sway him either one way. Rebekah made sure he knew the good and the bad of vampirism.
Jeremy just has to decide if he can live as a vampire or not?
Only he can choose.
Do the good parts outweighs the bad in his opinion?
Jeremy looked between them hesitantly. "You'd be there to help me?" He asked seeing them both nod. Jeremy let out a shaky breath, "Then I think I can live with this..."
.
.