Disclaimer: I only own my own creations, and love to make them play in the True Blood world.
A/N: This chapter's format will be slightly different, as it will be a collection of emails exchanged between Sookie and Eric over a period of several months…also italics are Eric's thoughts.
Chapter 9
September 5, 2027
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
Arrived safely back in LA. Hoping all is still well. Once again, please feel free to reach out if needed.
Warmest regards,
Eric
_(v-v)_
September 8, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
Thank you for letting me know you and Pam arrived safely. I would have responded sooner, but there are so many things I need to take care of with my husband's passing. I am anxious to get back to work on our line of flavors, and Lafayette says we just booked three more catering events next month. Not enough hours in the day it seems.
Better get back to it.
Sookie
_(v-v)_
September 9, 2027
To: sookiestack
From northman930
Sookie,
At the risk of not sounding supportive of your business venture (and you know that I am) don't you think you should take some time before you throw yourself back into work? There's no harm in giving yourself more time to get your husband's affairs in order. Be careful not to stretch yourself too thin.
Just a thought from someone concerned for you.
Sincerely,
Eric
_(v-v)_
September 25, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
I appreciate your concern for me, but I am capable of managing things just fine. If and when I feel overwhelmed, I will take some time off. Ella has invited me to come visit her, and I'm thinking about taking her up on the offer.
We are catering a company picnic and a baby shower coming up this week, so it may be some time before I can reach back out.
I'll be in touch…Sookie
_(v-v)_
October 19, 2027
To: sookiestack
From northman930
Sookie,
It's been a few weeks, and I thought I'd check in on you. How are things going?
I've been wanting to reach out to you, professionally, ever since returning from Louisiana, but didn't want to over burden you. I will be sending you some information from my work email soon. I look forward to your feedback.
I hope to hear from you.
Eric
_(v-v)_
October 26, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
I'm just the worst. I really don't know where the time has gone. I have been busy with catering events and Lafayette and I have been experimenting with a few new flavors. It's too soon to say much, we're still tinkering with them. I am interested in what you are sending, and will keep an eye out for an email from your NuBlood email address.
I'm starting to wonder how I managed to keep all these balls in the air before. I guess I never realized just how much help it was having someone around that could lend a hand.
Listen to me, my Gran would be ashamed. I haven't bothered to ask how you are doing? I saw the magazines at the grocery store checkout...you and Olivia split up? I'm sorry to hear it. I'm here if you want to talk to someone.
Sookie
_(v-v)_
October 29, 2027
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
I appreciate your concern. It is unnecessary. Despite the flashy headlines, the breakup was mutual. We were never meant to be a long-term thing. Frankly, I'm surprised it lasted as long as it did. I'm fine.
I'm rather more excited to know what you are working on. What new flavors?
The information I forwarded to you is some preliminary market research I had done regarding your product in the marketplace. Our team was unable to find any other company out there that is attempting what you are. It is an untapped market. Pam and I are very excited to see where you can take this, and we want to help you in any way that we can. I will have my people put some numbers together for you by the end of the week.
Until then, please take care.
Eric
_(v-v)_
November 3, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
My apologies, once again, for the delayed response.
I received your email, and though I appreciate the obvious time and effort you and your people have put into the research, I have to ask you to back off a bit. This business venture, the idea, its mine and Lafayette's. I feel like I'm being asked to step aside while the 'grown-ups' take over.
I know your intentions are good, but don't treat me like I'm incapable of doing this myself. I'm simply not ready to take things to the next level yet…we're still in development. When the time comes, I will reach out. But until then, please don't try to take over.
It's funny really, in any other aspect of my life, I would love to have someone swoop in and take charge. The house needs cleaning, the lawn some maintenance, and I think I need new brakes on my car. There's bills that need paying, and Arlene keeps sending me more and more new clients. I barely have a chance to breathe some days.
But it's my company, and it's my call.
Sookie
_(v-v)_
I leaned back in my chair after reading what was clearly an angry response to my expressed interest in her company. At first, I wanted to respond with a few choice words of my own. Upon further reflection, however, I could see that the denial of her situation was slowly shifting. Where before she might have gone into deeper isolation, this time she stood up for herself. Though I still believe her anger is unwarranted I will gladly bear it if it helps her continue healing. I just hope I haven't made her too angry. That would defeat the purpose, and derail what I believe will be a very successful business venture.
I must reply, but will have to be very careful of I how I proceed. I will consult with Pam before sending my next response.
_(v-v)_
November 6, 2027
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
I purposely waited a few extra days before responding, not wishing to upset you further.
I understand your passion regarding your new business, and it is well founded. You have an amazing concept and a good product, for an undeveloped market. I was in no way trying to "take over". If I gave you that impression, I offer my deepest apologies.
I know you Sookie. I know how strong you are, how brave and intelligent. I may be guilty of many things, but treating you as incompetent is not one of them. I have always believed in you, my little fairy, and that will never change. I know you can make your company a success, with or without my involvement. I just hope that you'll consider letting me be a part of your new journey.
Yours most humbly,
Eric
_(v-v)_
November 14, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
I am so sorry. I don't know what got into me. It's been happening a lot these days…these unexpected bouts of rage. I almost drove an old lady off the road the other day! And Lafayette told me he was taking a week off work, claiming if he didn't get some time away from me that he might be tempted to "cut a bitch". Those were his words.
I even alienated Ella, who pushed me too far regarding Thanksgiving, and now may not come home at all!
I'm not usually so foul-tempered. I sure hope I can snap out of this soon. Any suggestions?
Miserably,
Sookie
_(v-v)_
November 15, 2027
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
There's no need to apologize to me. I get it. I spent the better part of a century killing my way through Europe, after Godric first turned me. At least you're not killing anyone, right?
Maybe spending some time apart from Lafayette will do you some good. You've been working so closely together, it might give you both some new perspective.
As for Ella, what was she pushing you about?
Curious,
Eric
_(v-v)_
November 15, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
She was asking me to put on a big Thanksgiving feast for all the friends and family, just like we used to. I just don't think I can do it. Not now, not yet.
Besides, we're heading into our busiest time of year. Between Christmas and New Year's parties, we'll have more work that we'll know what to do with. Our other venture will likely have to go on the back burner for a few months.
_(v-v)_
November 15, 2027
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
I must say, I wasn't expecting such a quick response. Two in one day…you spoil me.
As far as Thanksgiving goes, do only what YOU feel comfortable doing. I saw what your idea of a "family gathering" is. Be selfish for once. If you don't want to host half of Bon Temps, then don't.
_(v-v)_
November 15, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Yeah well, don't get used to it.
And what do you mean you "saw" one of our family gatherings?
_(v-v)_
November 15, 2027
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Caught that, did you? I observed one of your Thanksgiving gatherings several years ago. You were with child…you looked so happy. I thought it best to keep my distance.
_(v-v)_
November 15, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Well, I wish you would've joined us. You'd been welcome. In fact, would you like to join us for Thanksgiving this year? I may not invite half the town, as you put it, but wouldn't mind hosting a select few…which would include you.
Please think about it.
_(v-v)_
It was ten years ago that I was watching as an outsider. And now, I've been invited to join them. I was so sure back then that I was seeing Sookie and Bon Temps for the last time. What a strange twist of fate.
_(v-v)_
November 17, 2027
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
I can't thank you enough for your invitation. I am honored. If there was any way for me to get away, I would. Unfortunately, I have a business meeting the day after in Seattle. I must decline.
Regretfully,
Eric
_(v-v)_
November 18, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
I'd be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed. But I do understand. I didn't give you much notice. I've decided to have Ella, Jason, Bridgette and the kids this year. Thank you for encouraging me to set boundaries. I feel better already.
With heartfelt thanks,
Sookie
_(v-v)_
November 19, 2027
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
You are most welcome. I hope that you and your family have a wonderful time together.
I must apologize for cutting things short. This time of year becomes quite hectic for me as well, as we head towards our fiscal year end.
I will be unavailable on and off from now to the New Year, so please don't take it personally if I don't respond immediately.
Warmest wishes,
Eric
_(v-v)_
November 27, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
I am writing to you on one of those rare occasions when I have a day of rest and relaxation. Thanksgiving went off very well, everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. I did my best to stay on good behavior…no adult temper tantrums.
How is Seattle?
With Ella being home, we've decided to throw a little party Saturday night to celebrate her upcoming birthday. She isn't going to make it home again until Christmas so we decided to make the most of it.
I know you're busy…but I miss hearing from you.
A little lonely in Louisiana,
Sookie
_(v-v)_
November 28, 2027
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
I'm so glad you reached out. Seattle is wet. And a bit melancholy for my tastes. I may not be able to go directly into it, but I find I miss the sun when not in LA. My penthouse has UV blocking glass windows that allows me to let the light in, with no fear of bursting into flame. I hope to show you, if I can talk you into visiting me one day.
As expected, I've been tied up in meetings for the past two days. I will try to be more responsive, as we can't have you being lonely a minute longer than necessary. Surely having your daughter and family with you helps?
I must go, but will write again soon.
Sorry in Seattle,
Eric
_(v-v)_
November 29, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
Well played, Sir. The flowers and gift card you sent Ella for her birthday were a BIG hit! She was taken totally by surprise. Thank you for thinking of her. It was very thoughtful.
Sincerely,
Sookie
_(v-v)_
November 29, 2027
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
How many times do I have to tell you there's no need to thank me. It was just a birthday gift.
The flowers do have a bit of a story. Humans today have all but forgotten that flowers have meanings. The daisy for instance, has always symbolized innocence and purity. The primrose, however, was the sacred flower of the Norse goddess Freya, and is said to symbolize youth. I thought the combination was appropriate. I'm glad she liked them.
Fondly,
Eric
_(v-v)_
December 21, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Still alive? Or rather undead? It's been a busy few weeks. Just wanted to say "hi".
Still have six more holiday parties to go! (January cannot get here soon enough!)
Sookie
_(v-v)_
December 24, 2027
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
Merry Christmas Eve!
I believe that is the appropriate greeting, yes? I know you are probably busy with family and friends, but I wanted to take this opportunity to wish you well. Our company is observing the holidays, so I find myself with some much-needed down time.
I have made arrangements for you and Ella to receive your Christmas gifts tomorrow…and before you tell me no, it's already done. Accept my gifts with grace (for once).
Your semi-secret Santa,
Eric
_(v-v)_
December 25, 2027
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric!
You did too much! The bracelets are beautiful!
Merry Christmas.
Most affectionately,
Sookie
_(v-v)_
December 25, 2027
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
I am happy you both liked them. I don't know if you recognized the symbol engraved on them…it's a fairy protection rune.
I debated which metals to use, and thought silver was best for Ella, so that the bracelet could be used in defense of a vampire attack if ever needed. Yours, a decided to go with gold, to match the golden color of your hair and tanned skin. (I also had tracking devices installed in both of them, but you won't ever need to know that)
I hope you both wear them in good health.
Merry Christmas, sweet Sookie.
Eric
_(v-v)_
January 1, 2028
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
Happy New Year! I thought of you last night at midnight, only to remember it was still hours away for you. Anyway, I look forward to what the new year will bring.
Lafayette and I will be resuming work on the new flavors soon. I will keep you posted.
Sincerely,
Sookie
_(v-v)_
Sookie seems to be doing a bit better. I worried that the holidays would be difficult for her…but she seems to be handling things quite well. I know that there will be good and bad days to come. I will just try to remain patient.
_(v-v)_
January 2, 2028
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
I am happy to hear you will be resuming work with Lafayette. I am anxious to see what you two come up with next. I know I had upset you months ago when I offered to help you with your business…do I sense a change of heart?
Pam and I both feel your ideas have amazing potential on their own, but we can envision a way to combine our two products together, while also marketing your product as a stand-alone retail item.
There's no rush, and I will wait until you ask me to pursue this matter further.
Here's wishing you continued success.
Yours truly,
Eric
_(v-v)_
January 4, 2028
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
Thank you for your continued support. I really had no idea where Lafayette and I tinkering in the kitchen would lead. As I mentioned before, we're working on a sweet variety inspired by honey. But also a bitter variety that has been the trickiest so far. We've been trying to incorporate essences of coffee and/or chocolate.
Vampires taste being so much sharper than human, we must be careful not to make the blood taste too strongly of the flavor we're adding. We are basically trying to create one flavor for each of the five basic tastes—bitter, salty, sour, sweet and umami (savory). We've had success with the salty, sour and savory, as you know. It's just the last two we have struggled with.
It's nice to know you and Pam are cheering us on. It means a lot.
Ever grateful,
Sookie
_(v-v)_
January 9, 2028
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
You never have to thank me for simply believing in you…I couldn't stop if I tried.
Yours truly,
Eric
_(v-v)_
January 13, 2028
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
You always seem to say exactly what I need to hear…when I need to hear it.
Making progress, at last…
Sookie
_(v-v)_
January 17, 2028
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
Glad to hear things are going well. Pam and I are heading to New York for a couple of weeks for a NuBlood stock holders meeting and some consulting with the Supernatural Council.
I may be hard to reach, and will miss hearing from you. I will contact you as soon as I am able.
Yours truly,
Eric
_(v-v)_
February 2, 2028
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
I feel so pathetic, but I have really missed writing you. I didn't realize how much I've enjoyed our connection, until it was absent these past two weeks. Please don't take this as me being upset with you, I'm not. I am just feeling a little melodramatic.
I hope this finds you well, and that your trip to New York is a success.
Waiting to hear from you…
Lonely in Louisiana (again)
Sookie
_(v-v)_
February 8, 2028
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
My dearest, Sookie.
I am so sorry to have been the cause of any sadness you may have experienced. It was never my intent to go so long without writing. I fear it was my involvement with the Council that prohibited my ability to contact you. I was brought in as a consultant on some troubling matters…things I can't really discuss. I feared that my correspondence was being monitored, and didn't want to inadvertently expose you to any harm or unwanted attention.
Don't worry, it's nothing like the dangers we faced years ago. So please don't fret. I am likely being overcautious.
I hope that you know I look forward to each word you write as well, and I have missed you too. I will make it up to you somehow. I promise.
Yours truly,
Eric
_(v-v)_
February 9, 2028
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
There's nothing to make up for, however, Valentine's Day is around the corner…just saying.
Sookie
_(v-v)_
What is this Valentine's Day? I've seen human celebrations with hearts and bow wielding cherubs. Why would being struck by an arrow in the heart be a desired thing? I don't understand these modern customs. I will have to ask Pam, once again.
_(v-v)_
February 14, 2028
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
Pam has told me that it has become customary to give tokens of love to one another in honor of this Saint Valentine. I have taken the liberty of sending you flowers and chocolates. If this is inappropriate…blame Pam. I find myself in unfamiliar territory, as this was not a custom in my human days. Does this make up for things in some way?
In all seriousness, however, I hope that you will accept my gifts knowing that they are offered with admiration, respect and genuine affection.
Lovingly,
Eric
_(v-v)_
February 14, 2028
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
Happy Valentine's Day to you too. Thank you for the beautiful flowers and chocolates…you can let Pam know that she was right! You have more than made up for things.
I admit I was feeling a little blue, and your gifts really brightened my day. You really are the sweetest thing.
Your valentine,
Sookie
_(v-v)_
February 14, 2028
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
My valentine? I think I am beginning to like this tradition, although I object to you referring to me as "sweet". You make me sound like one of the confections I sent you. A Viking vampire business tycoon is NOT sweet.
Once again, I am glad my flowers were well received. I did want to tell you the meaning behind them. The variegated carnations in red and white symbolize love and admiration (from the red) and regret of separation/not being there (from the white mixed in).
My only regret, my dearest one, is not being able to see you in person. I hope that we will not be parted for much longer. In fact, business may be taking me to New Orleans soon. Is there any chance we could meet up there? I will let you know my travel plans as they become available.
Affectionately yours,
Eric
_(v-v)_
February 15, 2028
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
I would love to see you in New Orleans. Ella has been pestering me for months to come visit, so I could see you both in the same trip.
Lafayette and I have finalized the two additional flavors, and I would love to have you sample them for me. I'd like your opinion on some name ideas as well. Things seem to be coming together nicely.
Please let me know your travel dates, and I'll make arrangements with Ella.
I'm excited to see you.
Yours truly,
Sookie
_(v-v)_
February 16, 2028
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
Words cannot express how anxious I am to see you. I can hardly believe it's been six months since we last parted.
I have just finalized my travel itinerary, and will be in New Orleans from the 9th to the 13th of March. I will be staying at the king's home (formerly Sophie Ann's). Though I have some business to attend to with the King, I should still have ample free time to spend together with you. We have so much to discuss.
Until then my sweet one,
Eric
PS There is a formal gala on one of the nights of my visit, any chance you would agree to be my plus one?
_(v-v)_
February 17, 2028
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Eric,
So, it's ok for you to call ME sweet, huh?
Seriously, I am thrilled things have worked out so well. Ella is overjoyed! I will send you her address and phone number, so you'll know how to find us.
In response to your invitation, I would be honored to be your plus one. Formal attire you said? That shouldn't be a problem…I am a fairy princess after all.
Yours truly,
Sookie
_(v-v)_
February 20, 2028
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Princess,
I am sure you will be the belle of the ball. I will email you the details.
Your Prince Charming
_(v-v)_
February 25, 2028
To: northman930
From: sookiestack
Prince Eric,
As much as I am enjoying our little fairy tale, it is now my turn to take a short hiatus from writing. Bridgette and my brother are taking a much-needed vacation without the kids. I agreed to watch them. So, I'm heading over to their place and will have my hands full (literally) for the next 10 days.
With the formulas completed and no catering events scheduled, it's the perfect time. Bridgette said she'll help out Lafayette while I'm down in New Orleans as pay back. That's what family does.
By the time I'm done, I'll be heading down to see you. Keep me in your thoughts until then.
Yours truly,
Sookie
_(v-v)_
February 26, 2028
To: sookiestack
From: northman930
Sookie,
You'll be in my thoughts until you're in my arms.
I wish you the best of luck with your brother's offspring.
See you soon, my Sookie.
Eric
A/N: I hope this format didn't bother you too much. It was the only way I could think of to show Sookie's progress as she continues to grieve her husband, while also pushing the timeline a bit faster. You'll notice Olivia left the picture easily (though she was a reference to Tom Ellis/Lucifer who I adore almost as much as Alexander Skarsgard). The devil and a vampire…what does that say about me? Pam's squeeze Emily Fraser is a reference (in part) to the character Jamie Fraser from Outlander. I have yet to throw in a Buffy/Spike reference, but it'll happen sometime. What can I say? I'm a hopeless fangirl.