Angelica was sorting out her Skittles by color when a knock at the door brought her head up. "Come in!" She called. Cecelia poked her head in a few seconds later. "Hello, Cecelia. What can I do for you?"

The young woman came in and cleared her throat. "I'm sorry, first of all. I know you don't like to be disturbed when you have a rare hour of peace and quiet, but there are visitors outside who claim to be your aunt Selina and her lovely daughter, Mackenzie. They want to see you. Should I bring them here, even though they don't have an appointment?"

Angelica smiled widely and stood up from her chair. "Of course! They're always welcome! Go ahead and bring them here, please."

"All right," Cecelia nodded.

A few minutes later, Selina, who was wearing a bright red dress and grinning, entered the office, followed by a joyous Mackenzie, who was struggling to control her excitement.

"Mackenzie, sweetie, why don't you sit in that chair over there and take some deep breaths?" Selina suggested, pointing at a white leather chair by Angelica's desk. "I don't want you to faint."

Mackenzie did just that as Selina turned her attention back to Angelica. "I know our visit is a bit of a surprise, but as we were driving past, I told my daughter that we were at the building where your office was, and she was very excited about visiting." She set her handbag on the table. "I hope we weren't disturbing anything important. I know you're very busy."

"You just happened to come at the perfect time," Angelica smiled and came to greet them, shaking Mackenzie's hand. "It's a lovely surprise that adds fun to my day."

"Good morning, Ms. Morningstar," Mackenzie smiled and curtsied.

"Good morning, Mackenzie," Angelica greeted her and tried not to blush as she took her hand and squeezed it firmly. "You've changed since I last saw you. You're quite the young lady now!"

"I have," Mackenzie nodded eagerly. "And I can't wait until I'm a real grown-up lady and can come work for you!"

Angelica raised her head to meet Selina's eye and wink at her. She quickly winked back. "Well, we're always on the look for new talent," Angie said. "I'm sure you'll be ready to join my team eventually. In fact, let's get you a head start." She turned her head to call for her assistant. "Cecelia? Would you come in here, please?"

"Yes, Ms. Morningstar?" Cecelia promptly poked her head through the door. "What can I do for you? Would you and your guests like something to drink?"

"We're fine for the moment, but…would you please take Mackenzie around and show her everything in the show rooms? I'm sure she'd love it!" She paused. "Is that all right with you, Aunt Selina?"

"Oh, of course," Selina nodded. Then she met her daughter's eye as Angelica gently pushed Mackenzie toward her assistant. "Honey, remember to be polite and thank Ms. Morningstar and Cecelia."

"I sure will, Mom," Mackenzie nodded as an equally eager Cecelia led her out of the office and toward the show rooms. "Thank you, Ms. Morningstar, thank you!"

"Don't mention it," Angie smiled at her. "Just enjoy!"

Once they were gone, she turned from the door to face Selina. "I know I turned Cecelia down when she asked before, but…would you like some coffee?" She made her way to the machine (the same type with the pods that her mother liked. She wasn't a coffee pot person like her dad and sister, Valerie,) her heels clacking on the marble floor.

"Yes, I think I would, thank you," Selina nodded. "Two sugars and some milk, please. Just a splash."

"Perfect," Angelica told her and began making the coffees up. "And you don't have to just stand there. You can sit down if you'd like."

"Thank you," Selina nodded and sat down. "I thought so, but I didn't want to assume. And I didn't know how long we were going to be here." She sat down in the same leather chair her daughter had vacated and relaxed into it, her head against the headrest and legs crossed over each other, whistling low as she looked around the office. "You've done very well for yourself, Angelica. You should be proud."

"Thank you," Angelica blushed again. "I am very proud of it all, in fact. And a little overwhelmed. I didn't expect it to go this far." She sat down at her glass top desk and put her skittles back in their sandwich bag to eat later.

"And…and also, thank you for your kindness toward Mackenzie," Selina added. "She can be a bit much but you're handling it marvelously."

"You're welcome. But it's not just to placate her," Angie replied with a smile. "She seems very determined and dedicated so…why not let her come here if she has the know-how and the willingness to do the job one day?"

"That's something to consider," Selina nodded. "So…busy these days?"

"Oh, yes. But in a good way. We're working on going worldwide so there's always something to do: meetings to go to, calls to make, etc."

"But I hope you remember to take time to enjoy yourself," Selina said. "You know what they say about all work and no play."

Something in her voice made Angelica freeze. "Oh, of course I take time off," she insisted, her cheeks turning pink. "A few days here and there do me good."

"Well, that's wonderful to hear," Selina smiled. "Because it's really good for you to relax every once in a while and not just work, work, work. I know it's not my place to say, but…I think it would be good for you to find someone new. I know the breakup between you and Sammy was a tough thing to go through but you can't mope forever. I could help you find someone." She paused for dramatic effect. "Unless you already have…then I'll back off. Cause it's none of my business."

A noise escaped Angie's throat. She tried to pass it off as a cough, but as it was more like a whimper, it didn't work. "What are you trying to say? Has my father called you?"

"No," Selina's wide blue eyes widened even more. "Why?"

Angelica sighed. "Well, you probably are already onto it anyway and I need to tell someone, so…I'm seeing someone, but I want to keep it a secret for now, until I'm sure it's gonna lead to something that I want. And that he wants. And he might want it, but I'm not sure if he's interested in me that way, and-" She trailed off and took a deep breath, too exhausted after the confession to lie to herself or her aunt. "And Daddy is mad because I have this relationship and I don't want to tell him anything about it. It's making him all paranoid and stuff. He's starting to freak me out a little."

Selina sighed. "Oh, dear."

"What?"

"Does he know?"

"Does he know what?"

Selina put her hands on her hips. "Well, since we're being honest…last Sunday, Elijah, Mackenzie, and I were at the grocery store and we saw Klaus, my husband's brother. You know Klaus, don't you, sweetie?" She questioned, an evil grin curving her lips.

Angelica closed her eyes tight, redness filling her cheeks as she realized her aunt was on to her whole affair. Luckily she wasn't the judgmental type, because there was no point in lying. "Yes, all right," she burst out. "I'm seeing Klaus. There, I said it. Are you happy?"

"Well, it doesn't matter if I am or not," Selina shook her head and put a hand on Angelica's shoulder. "The point is, are you?"

Angelica made a face. "It's complicated."

Selina scoffed. "Of course, it is. It's always complicated with Klaus. Better you know that now."

"No, I don't mean him," Angelica shook her head. "In fact, I've never been so at ease with someone outside my family in my entire life."

Selina's eyes widened. "Excuse me? Are we talking about the same Klaus?"

"Yes, we are," Angie nodded. "We met by chance at an ATM and then started exchanging phone calls, and then…" she trailed off, blushing.

"You probably realize that your father's not gonna like this," Selina told her.

"Oh, please don't give us away!" Angelica begged. "I'll tell him eventually, or he'll find out on his own, but for now, can we just be in our bubble?"

"Hey, of course," Selina nodded. "I faked my own death so Mama wouldn't find out that Damon got me pregnant before I married him and be all judgmental, remember? I know all about having a bubble, so your father won't hear it from me."

"Can I ask how you guessed?" Angelica asked, the sound of laughter from outside indicating that Cecelia and Mackenzie were heading back to the office.

"Well, when I saw Klaus at the store, there was a look in his eyes I've never seen before, not even when we were together. It was peace. He was at peace."

Angelica smiled.

"Then Mackenzie mentioned you and her big future design empire. That made him blush and I put two and two together." She paused. "I just wanted to be sure, and you don't have to worry about me keeping your secret. I will. But just know that he's a troubled man and a lot to handle. Sexy and alluring, sure. Too much of both for his own good. But wild, nonetheless. I know you can handle him, but…please be careful."

"I will," Angelica promised. "I'm no fool."

"Look, it's the fancy ice cream cart!" Mackenzie proclaimed as she and Selina came out of the grocery store. "The one that has pistachio ice cream! My favorite kind! Can I get some, Mommy? Please?" They had left Angelica's office not long before and already the girl was on the hunt for her next adventure.

"Sure," Selina muttered to herself. "If it'll give me some peace and quiet." But as she handed her daughter the twenty to get her treat, she said, "how can you have room for more sweets? I'm sure you had some with Cecelia and there are lots in my snack fridge at home."

"And that's why I need more," Mackenzie told her. "Because you made me addicted to them." Before Selina could reply to that, the smarty pants scampered off toward the cart, giggling all the way.

"Dear god, she's something else," Selina muttered to herself. "I think I've created a monster!"

"But aren't they all like that at least a little bit?" came a voice. Selina turned and found herself face to face with Ellie Morningstar.

"I suppose," she grinned at the wife of the devil. "Good morning, Ellie. It's a pleasure to see you here. It's really been a while, hasn't it?"

"Yes, it has," Ellie nodded, reaching out to take Selina's hand. "And I'm glad to see you too."

Selina watched as Mackenzie got her ice cream. "You're not wrong. All my children have their good and bad moments and I'm sure yours do too." She chuckled, thinking of some of the good ones.

"Are you and Mackenzie out shopping?" Ellie asked. "What a nice bonding activity. Maybe I should plan something with Valerie. She's the best shopper out of all my kids."

"Speaking of your kids, while Mackenzie and I have been out and about, we paid a visit to your daughter, Angelica. We just left her office not too long ago. She has it in her head that Angelica will be her boss one day. Not too many steps up from 'idol', which is how she feels about Angelica now." Selina grinned.

"I'm very proud of all that Angelica has accomplished," Ellie grinned back. "She's always been a go-getter and now she has an empire, an independent life, and her feet on solid ground."

"An independent life, yes," Selina nodded. "But certainly not one of solitude."

Ellie rolled her eyes. "Don't tell me that my husband called you with a tirade about Angelica's new lover. He's being so infantile about it all and we have to suffer for it!"

Selina threw her head back and laughed. "Thank you for that, Ellie. And there's nothing to worry about. Not yet anyway. Angelica and I had a talk during our visit, and I know who she's seeing."

Ellie crossed her arms. "And you know damn well who that person is, don't you?"

Selina grinned. "And why would you think that?"

"Because," Ellie threw up her hands. "You're Selina Warren Mikaelson, force of nature. You're intelligent enough to figure something like that out in less than a minute!"

"Well, don't sell yourself short," Selina replied. "I'm sure you figured it out too and for the exact same reasons."

"Yep, she's been driving Klaus' jeep," Ellie rolled her eyes. "I just had to check the numbers on the license plate."

"And Lucifer didn't use that tactic?"

"No," Ellie sighed. "But he's been too mad with grief to think logically lately. Looking at pictures of baby Angelica, crying, and swearing that he'll kill the man who took her from him."

Selina snorted. "I don't think that's gonna happen, considering who it is."

"Yeah, and because of this insanity, he's forgotten about me! We haven't gone out on a date or had sex or anything! I feel single!" She held out her hand with its bare finger. "See? I even forgot to put my wedding rings on this morning!"

"Don't beat yourself up. It's not like that's a horrible offense, Ellie. You can put them on when you get back home."

Ellie sighed loudly. "I guess. And you'll keep quiet about Angelica?"

"Yes," Selina nodded. "And I've promised her the same thing too."

"Thank you," Ellie said. "I just want to make sure she's able to live the life she wants and that she's able to make her own decisions, you know? It sucks to have everything decided for you. And if Angelica has chosen to be with Klaus Mikaelson for now, then that's that."

"Oh, yes," Selina agreed. "I definitely understand."

Just then, Mackenzie came back with an ice cream in each hand, licking them furiously so they wouldn't melt. "Hi, Mommy! I got lots of ice cream! See? Thanks for all the money to buy it!" Then she looked at Ellie and made a graceful curtsy in spite of the fact that her hands were full. "Hello, mother of Ms. Angelica Morningstar! Thank you for putting the most wonderful woman ever on this earth!"

"See?" Selina told Ellie. "What did I tell you?"

"Well, hello to you too, Mackenzie! And thank you very much! It's so nice to hear compliments about myself and my daughter!" She grinned as she brushed some of the girl's hair off her face.

"Now that we've done our errands and you've gotten your ice cream, I think we should be getting back to the farm, so your father doesn't worry about us," Selina told Mackenzie, then gave Ellie a grin. "It was nice seeing you, Ellie."

"Likewise, Selina. And Mackenzie too." Ellie gave them one last smile, and then watched as they walked away. But once they were gone, her smile was too. She couldn't stop thinking about how things were between her and Lucifer now. How it was once again occurring to her just how much she'd missed in life by marrying him when she did. It was so frustrating! She quickly turned on her heel and headed for a nearby ice cream shop (the well-known rival of the man who ran the cart Mackenzie had gotten her ice cream from), not noticing a man who was following close by. Close enough that when they both tried to get through the door, they slipped and bumped heads.

"Ouch!" She shrieked.

"You said it," the man agreed and rubbed his bump.

"That was a really hard hit," Ellie spat. "Is your head made of rocks or what?" Then she looked him over. Jeez, it wasn't just his head. It was his whole body. He was…hot! It was easy to sense that he was human. And tall as her husband, very muscular, and model handsome. It was a new experience to find another man truly attractive, but she had eyes and she would be an idiot not to notice a good-looking guy right in front of her, especially when Lucifer was failing her so badly.

"I'll take that as a compliment, ma'am," he told her. "But you'll have to excuse me when I point out that your head is as hard as mine."

Ellie winced and continued to rub her bump. It was still sore and she was sure it was growing by the minute. "I know you mean to be polite," she told him. "But please don't call me a ma'am. I've never felt like a ma'am."

"Of course, I beg your pardon," he said. "You're much too young to be called ma'am."

Surprised, Ellie raised her eyes to his. How could such a gorgeous man be so polite and put together?"

"And I hope I'm not overstepping my boundaries, but…you're too beautiful to be called ma'am also. I should have called you Miss!" he continued, his eyes going directly to her bare left hand.

Damn! He probably thought she was single! And why not? It wasn't like there was evidence to the contrary. That was currently in her bedside table drawer. She blushed deep red and rubbed her hands together. "Thank you," she whispered. It was all she could get out.

"Where are my manners?" he asked after a few seconds of silence, holding out his right hand to her. "I'm Julian. Julian Johnson."

"Eleanor," she got out as she shook it. "Eleanor…Mikaelson." His hand was strong, and warm, and she…she felt safe holding it. Definitely the hand of a man who worked. Calloused with jagged nails and some dry skin. Not like her husband who threw a bigger fit than she did if he broke a nail and whose vision of Hell would probably be an hour or more without lotion or moisturizer. Or hair products.

Thinking of Lucifer brought her back to reality. What was she doing? Not only was she not wearing her wedding rings, but she was also lying to this man about her identity and her marital status, telling him only her maiden name. But worst of all, on top of all that, electricity had shot through her the second she'd touched that calloused hand, and she knew, from the way his gaze had met hers and hadn't looked away, that he'd felt it too. Uncomfortable, she coughed and pulled her hand away.

"It was lovely to meet you, Eleanor Mikaelson," he said with a smile.

"Likewise," she returned, biting her lower lip hard enough to taste blood. Get a grip on yourself! She scolded herself. You're losing your mind!

"Are you by chance related to Mikael Mikaelson?" Julian asked.

"Vaguely, somehow," Ellie nodded. "The family tree is very twisted and all, but I'm sure the connection is there somewhere. Why?"

"I see," he nodded, his eyes sliding over her body appreciatively.

Ellie groaned, adding that day's outfit to her list of sins: A short leather skirt, wedge sandals, and an off the shoulder red top! It really let a person see the shape of everything! Even people who had no business doing so! "Why do you ask? Do you know Mikael Mikaelson?"

"I would say I do," Julian nodded and crossed his arms. "I work for him. I'm his chauffeur."

"Well, small world." She crossed her arms too.

"And he's not the only Mikaelson I know. My grandmother is neighbors with Klaus Mikaelson. Maybe you know that one a little bit better?" He winked.

"Y-Yes," Ellie stammered, eyes wide with shock. "Wow, you're really in the middle of all of the…" she gestured vaguely. "You know."

"I know all about it, you know," he said, then leaned forward to whisper. "The supernatural world."

"Yeah," Ellie chuckled nervously. "You sure would know about it if you work for Mikael and your grandmother lives next to Klaus." She was always nervous about being around humans, especially if they knew the truth because they could either be open and accepting and awesome or throw big fits about how you betrayed them and how they needed to analyze their feelings, and then try to murder you. There was always a risk to being around humans. Especially if your husband was the devil or you'd borne him children. Apparently that was some sort of problem.

"Don't you worry," he tried to reassure her since her nervousness was probably written all over her face. "I'm okay with it. It doesn't bother me. I mean, as long as I'm not killed in my sleep." He gave her a wink.

She smiled, her first true smile in a while, as she realized that she truly enjoyed spending time in Julian's company.

They stood in silence for a few seconds before he cleared his throat. "You know, I was just on my way into the ice cream shop before you hit my head, Eleanor," he told her.

A wave of goosebumps hit her as he said her full name, something only Lucifer ever did regularly. It was strange to hear it from another man. Strange and exciting. "I believe you hit mine," she informed him, hands on hips.

He nodded and gave a small bow. "I apologize. I consider myself a gentleman, so if it's that important to you, we can say I started it."

Ellie chuckled. "That's very rare."

"What?" Julian asked.

"A man conceding willingly to a woman," she added.

He shrugged as if it were nothing. "It was just how I was raised. May I get you an ice cream to apologize?"

She shut her eyes tight, doing her best to hold in the urge to agree. To give in to the temptation to stay in his company for much longer. But she had to admit that as unhappy as her marriage was at the moment, she should at least try one more time to improve it. It wasn't right for a married woman like herself to just go and run off with the first good looking man she saw, even if it would actually make her happy. "Thank you," she got out. "It's very sweet of you to ask, but…I'm busy, and…"

"I understand," Julian nodded good-naturedly, but she could still tell he was interested. That was good because she had no doubt with the way things were going with Lucifer, that she'd be able to join Julian for ice cream without guilt very soon. "I understand, but just know that any time you want to come and bonk heads again, you're more than welcome to do so. It was lovely to meet you, Eleanor Mikaelson."

A chuckle escaped Ellie's lips. "It was a pleasure to meet you too, Julian Johnson." She then began walking away, turning back just briefly to see if he'd gone. But she was surprised to see that he was still looking at her and smiling.

Feeling the need to check on Leighton again, Azrael sneaked into Alistair and Astrid's house, squishing herself into an alcove (and making sure she was invisible), as she listened to them argue.

"Oh, no, not again!" Alistair groaned as he took a cup from Astrid's grasp and sniffed the liquid inside. "This is alcohol! We talked about your day drinking! You said you would try to stop!"

"That's not alcohol, it's coffee!" Astrid snapped unconvincingly as she reached for it. "Give it back to me!"

Alistair just stared at her, eyes narrowed. Her hair wasn't washed, and she was still in her pajamas even though it was past noon. He held the cup out of her grip and sniffed it. "Yes, this is definitely alcohol. You're lying about not drinking again."

"What's it to you?" Astrid snapped and then let out a chuckle. "You know demon ladies like to have a drop or two first thing in the morning." She enjoyed the look on his face. Pushing his buttons was one of her few joys in life anymore.

"This habit of yours is putting our son at risk!" Alistair yelled. "Do you realize that? You could be drunk off your ass and hurt him!"

"Oh, yes," Astrid drawled. "Your precious son. First you get him and now you're plotting to steal my job at the Council. Everything is just going your way, isn't it? Next thing I know, you and that…that woman you hired to look after Leighton are going to start having an affair, right under my nose!"

"We won't!" Alistair shook his head. "The reason I hired Sylvia in the first place was to help me take care of Leighton since you're clearly in no condition to." His tone was sly.

"If you don't want me near your precious son, then why were you bitching about me hurting him two seconds ago?" Astrid snapped. "If you've hired someone else to look after him, then leave me alone and let me have my coffee in peace!"

Sucking in a breath, Azrael slowly and carefully eased her way away from Leighton's bickering parents and into his nursery where she slowly opened the door, her heart breaking at the sound of the boy's whimpering as she watched him from the doorway.

Not being able to stand it, she made her way into the room. If his parents wouldn't take care of him, then she would have to. His leg was bent at an awkward angle, and he clutched a blanket in his little fist, but she felt he needed more. "Oh, baby, come here," she murmured, moving the blanket and then gently picked him up. "I know you're in pain and I know it hurts to have to listen to your parents fight. I know. I've been there." She then sat down in his rocking chair, rocking him gently and kissing his blonde head. She'd never felt like this about a human before. Or anyone.

"I don't know why," she said. "But you're the first human I've ever cared about. I wish I could take you with me. But you're too strong." She sighed and hugged him harder. "Oh, well. I guess that's good. I've never liked taking children."

As soon as they were settled, the toddler raised his head and locked eyes with her as tears rolled down his chubby cheeks.

"It's breaking my heart to see you cry and know you're hurting," she murmured, holding him close. "If you would just let go and let me take you to heaven…the special, wonderful heaven for magical people that the humans are convinced doesn't exist." She murmured this as she kissed the blond hair on top of his head.

Much to her surprise, he accepted her attention without fuss. He put his thumb in his mouth and sucked on it gently as he learned against her and began to relax. "You're too precious for words, Leighton," she said, holding him tight and rocking the chair back and forth. "And since you've decided you don't want to go yet, I'll be around to look after you until it's time for me to take you home. And that's a promise." Then she took a deep breath and kissed his forehead one last time, setting him in his crib and then leaving his nursery with tears streaming down her cheeks.

As Klaus emerged from under the water and pushed his wet hair out of his eyes, he noticed a shape at the edge of the pool and swam toward it. A couple more blinks cleared his vision and he saw that it was Angelica, standing there in a beautiful beige linen dress. She was also barefoot, heels held in her hand and a smile on her lips.

"Well, it's about time, Angel," he pretended to scold her when he reached her.

Angelica sighed, not picking up on the sarcasm. "I know, I know. It's been a while. I would have been here with you last night, but Cecelia and I had a big project to work on, and there was this deal on the line, and…sometimes you just have to make sucky choices in life. But trust me, I would have been here if I could have."

"It's been forty-eight whole long, lonely hours," Klaus continued to tease. "I don't know if wee-wee and I can forgive you. It's been a long time. A man and his friend have needs. And you didn't fulfill your part of our…." He paused and whispered. "Contract."

Angelica rolled her eyes and shook her head, tossing her shoes away. "You big baby! You and your friend looked plenty happy in your big pool. You had a giant grin on your face when you saw me."

"Well, because that meant I wouldn't have to calm wee-wee down with cold water," Klaus explained.

She lowered her bare foot into the water and splashed him. "The water is warm, you goofy face!" She cried.

Klaus chuckled. "Oh, I really have missed you, Angel."

"I missed you too!" She smiled back. "I checked the pots when I got here, and do you know that your tomatoes are really growing?"

"Yes!" He nodded happily. "I finally have some tomatoes. Thank you so much for your help with that, love."

"You're welcome."

"Are you going to join us?" He asked, giving her a wink and then looking down at wee-wee. "Or do I have to pull you in here?"

"Oh, no, you don't have to do that," Angelica shook her head. "Give me a minute to change into my bikini and I'll be right in there with you." She was very excited.

"Why do you have to go all the way in and change?" Klaus asked. "You're wearing underwear, aren't you? And even if you aren't, I don't mind you coming in here naked. Because, as you pointed out, the water is warm."

"I'm not gonna jump naked into a pool in the middle of the day!" Angelica cried, scandalized that he would even suggest she do such a thing. "Some things are not meant for all eyes to see!" Then she paused. "Wait a minute, I have a matching skin tone bralette and bikini panties on. That could pass for swimsuit!" She threw her shoes on a lounge chair and then began undoing the buttons of her dress.

That was Angel, Klaus thought to himself, his eyes locked on her. Always willing to go for it. At least with him, anyway.

She took off her dress and folded it neatly, setting it on top of her shoes before slowly and carefully easing herself into the pool. It was about half-past five, but the sun was still up and it was still very hot outside.

"Geez," she shivered as she courageously submerged herself in the water. "The water is colder when your whole body is in it." She shivered.

"See?" Klaus told her, feeling vindicated as she swam toward him. "It's exactly what wee-wee needed while he waited for you."

"Well, hello, to both of you," she greeted, sliding her hands up his chest and then throwing them around his neck. "You can assure him that I'm here now and I have no intention of going anywhere else for several more hours, at least."

"Well, we're very happy about that," Klaus told her, pulling her to him and holding her close before giving her a gentle kiss on the lips. "Hello, beautiful!" Then he kissed her again, his tongue sliding gently between her lips before pushing her against the pool wall, a growl escaping his throat.

"Someone is happy," she murmured over his lips while caressing his neck and curly hair.

"Two someones are happy," he corrected as he gazed into her lovely brown eyes. "I love having you here with me."

"Well, did you know that I love being here with you?" She asked, smiling shyly and stroking his five o'clock shadow, loving the roughness against her palm.

He lowered his hands down her sides and hips before sliding her panties down.

"Klaus!" Angelica cried, wide-eyed as she felt him remove her panties. "Just what in the world do you think you are doing? We are practically out in public where someone could see us, and, unfortunately for you, I didn't inherit my father's love for public nudity!"

Klaus put a finger over her lips and clicked his tongue. "Oh, hush. Wee-wee is having a moment of need. You aren't seriously objecting, are you? Or do you really want to disappoint him in his hour of need?" He asked this as he continued to slide the panties down her legs.

Shaking her head, Angelica reached down and tried to pull her panties back up. "It's not the action itself that I have a problem with, but…not in broad daylight! Can't we do it in the house and come back tonight? Moonlight swims are so much more romantic anyway."

"You're right and we can do it again this evening if you want," Klaus nodded. "But it's very rude to make wee-wee wait so long." He finally got the panties in his fist, holding them up triumphantly.

"I'm not joking!" She cried, reaching up as he held them out of her reach. "Give me those back!"

"I don't know why you're so worried," Klaus said and nibbled on her earlobe. "No one will see you except me. Just let yourself enjoy it!"

"Well…I suppose…" Angelica sighed, letting him help her wrap her legs around his waist as he slowly buried himself inside her. "But this is really not…oh!"

"See?" He murmured, enjoying her grin as he balanced her against the edge of the pool with her arms over her head and continued to thrust into her. "See how enjoyable this is?"

Suddenly her eyes widened. "Oh, fuck!" She whispered, looking over his shoulder.

"Well, yes, that is exactly what I'm trying to do," Klaus reminded her. "Is there a problem?"

"Yes, but not with you," Angie whispered, barely moving her lips and doing her best to point. "Mrs. Johnson is trying to get our attention. She's waving at us from behind her fence! Who knows how long she's been there?"

"Hello, my dear Angelica!" The older woman called cheerfully. "Enjoying the pool on a lovely evening like this?"

Klaus buried his face in Angelica's neck to hide his laughter and, just for fun, began thrusting into her a little faster.

"Hello-oh!" Angelica got out. "How…how…are…you…Oh…oh…oh! Good evening to you, Mrs…Johnson!" She managed to get the words out as the fire reached her core.

"I'm well, thank you for asking," Mrs. Johnson returned easily. "And is that Klaus with you? Good evening to you, Klaus!"

Klaus raised his hand in a salute to acknowledge her greeting but didn't stop what he was doing.

"I see you're both busy," she remarked at last, a wide grin on her face.

"Yes, we…ohhhhhh! We enjoy the-ooooohhh! We enjoy the pool." If Mrs. Johnson wasn't suspicious of what they were doing, that big thrust of his and her shouting had probably given it away.

"Well, I'll leave you to your business in the pool," the older woman said after what seemed like an eternity. "It sounds like you're having a very good night!" She gave the devil's daughter a wink and then turned on her heel to go into her house. Angie climaxed soon after.

As he pulled out, Klaus couldn't help but laugh his ass off.

"You know, you're the biggest ass in the world!" She cried. "I've never been so mortified! I might as well just march down to hell and set myself on fire right this minute!" She hit his chest repeatedly.

"Is that what they do to bad, lusty people like us?" He asked with a wink. "I don't know what you're worried about. Mrs. Johnson did way worse things in her earlier years. It didn't shock her at all. So, you shouldn't be embarrassed either."

She sighed. "I guess. But we better not make a habit out of this."

"Are you mad?" Klaus asked. "Will you spank me?"

"No, cause you'd like that, wouldn't you?" Angie's eyes narrowed. "Any other requests?"

"Yes," Klaus nodded. "How about you kiss me?"

"All right," Angelica nodded with a smile. "I'll kiss you because you did me lots of good. And wee-wee deserves a reward for his hard work!" They both burst into laughter and gave each other a lingering kiss.

"You're right about wee-wee," Klaus told her. "And after we finish our swim, we'll go inside, and I'll tell you exactly what he'd like."

Avery had decided to have breakfast in her room that morning and was heading downstairs with coffee in one hand when her phone beeped. Sighing deeply, she took it out of the deep pocket of her lavender bathrobe and read it:

I made reservations for two at the French restaurant, Chez Michel for seven this evening. Please come. I need to talk to you. It's urgent!

Azrael

"All right," Avery thought to herself. "A free dinner at a French restaurant! And it's not like I have much else to do tonight anyway."

When she reached the dining room, she set her phone down on the table and sat next to it to drink her coffee, taking a deep breath. She'd only taken a few sips when a doorbell began to ring incessantly. "Anyone gonna get that?" She called. "Anyone at all?"

But she got no reply, so she just decided to get it herself. "Fine!" She huffed, shouting as her the heels of her white mules clacked on the floor. Reaching the door, she pulled it open and found herself face to face with a surprised Malachai.

"Malachai, what a surprise!" She said as her red lips curved into a grin. "As you can see, I'm not exactly dressed. Did we have a date that I've forgotten about?"

His gaze was somber as he placed a hand on either side of the doorframe, over his head. His hair was wild and tangled, as if he'd just jumped out of bed and decided not to brush it. He had an old pair of sneakers on his feet, light blue jeans, and a loose white t-shirt. And he didn't respond to her question, his eyes just narrowing as he watched her instead.

She swallowed, her jaw dropping a little. "What's gotten into you?" She asked. "Something wrong?"

He growled just a little bit and nudged her aside so that he could come in and shut the door with his foot, still saying nothing as he then grabbed her hand and began pulling her behind him as she struggled to keep her balance.

"What's wrong with you?" Avery cried. "Why won't you talk to me? Have you lost your mind? Slow down!"

At last, they reached one of the parlors and he pushed her inside, shutting the doors behind them.

"Oh, my gosh," Avery rubbed her wrist. "This is my brother's house! Could you show a little bit of consideration?!"

"Don't speak until you're spoken to," he snapped, hands on his hips as he paced restlessly around the room.

Avery rolled her eyes. What was wrong with him now? Granted the animalistic, bossy side of him could be sexy if she was in the right mood, but he seemed very serious now and she wasn't in the mood to even pretend to be disrespected. It was too early.

"Do I look like your servant?" Avery snapped. "If I don't, then I will talk when I want to in what is as good as my home now!"

Malachai stopped in his tracks, then let out a groan as he closed the distance between them grabbing her and kissing her soundly after cupping her face in both hands. She froze, feeling surprised. Then kissed him back, grabbing a fistful of his t-shirt to keep her balance, a few moans escaping her lips as he pulled away from her for a moment, then kissed her again, much deeper as his tongue slid between her lips.

"How was that?" He snapped after pulling away and keeping her at a distance. "Was that enough passion for you?" He scowled and wiped his mouth. "Am I good enough for you now? Or not?"

"What?" She asked, dumbfounded. She stepped back and lost her balance, grabbing the arm of a chair to steady herself. "Malachai, what the hell is wrong with you? I don't know what you're talking about!"

"So not good enough then?" Malachai pressed. "Do I need to be bolder? Rougher? Sexier? Then will I be good enough for you?"

"I don't want you to be anything more than the man you are!" Avery cried, dumbstruck. "But I would like to know why you've lost your mind! Did you have a terrible accident and hit your head on the way over here? Should we go to the hospital?"

He kept pacing. "Did you know?" he asked, pacing again. "Did you know all along and just pass the time with me until it was time to throw me aside? What's the name of the man who's going to replace me?"

She put her hands on either side of her head. "I have no idea what you're talking about! You have to believe me!"

"I'll fight the man," he continued to rant. "I'll fight this other 'the one' until heaven, hell, and earth proclaim me the one for you instead! That's how it's supposed to be!" He poked her in the chest. "Do you hear me?"

"Oh, I do!" Avery nodded. "It's impossible not to! And frankly, I'm beginning to worry about your mental health!" Her eyes were wide with worry.

"Oh, go to hell!" He snapped. "Go to hell, Avery. If you can't see it now, you will eventually. You're mine and don't you forget about it!"

He left and Avery let out a breath, collapsing into an armchair. After she collected herself, she let out a growl of frustration, silently cursing her father: "Damn it, Daddy what did you do now?"

Klaus, clad in black trousers, a black belt, and black shirt, eyed his reflection in the living room mirror, straightening his collar just as he heard the clack of Angelica's heels on the stairs. When she appeared in front of him at last, he grinned. "Fuck me, Angel," he breathed as his fiery gaze slid over her body. "You look beautiful!"

She looked as if she'd just come down from heaven. Or, he supposed, with a black dress, it was more like coming up from hell. But it didn't matter which. The A-line cut and see-through black fabric emphasized her small waist, the roundness of her breasts, and her beautiful long legs.

"I can't believe you bought me this beautiful dress, Klaus," she said as she looked at herself in the mirror and ran her hands over the luxurious fabric. "It's gorgeous! It's designer! You don't have to spend that kind of money on me! I could easily-"

"I know you could very easily get it yourself," he interrupted. "But in spite of my usual seemingly uncouth and uncivilized ways, I do have sophisticated tastes, you know. I'm able to go to a fancy restaurant dressed like a snob in a thousand-dollar suit and grow tomatoes while wearing bike shorts. I pride myself on being well-rounded." He paused, pushing some hair off her neck. "And it was my absolute pleasure to buy you this dress. I saw in the store window, and I knew it would fit you like a glove. I just knew it and it was too good to pass up!"

She turned to look him over. "And do you realize how sexy you look in black?" She purred, striding over to him and sliding her hands down his chest as his arms circled her waist and he pulled her close. "Thank you for my beautiful gift, Klaus." She said and slowly slid her tongue over his bottom lip.

"If you keep teasing me and wee-wee this way, the dress will be in pieces in five seconds!" he warned.

Angelica's eyes widened. "No, no, don't! I'll behave, I swear! It's just that you look good enough to eat!" She smiled seductively.

"Well, you do too," he smiled and twirled her around. "And if this is the sort of thanks I can expect every time I get you a present, then prepare to be spoiled!" He chuckled and kissed her soundly before giving her a playful slap on the bottom.

"So, what are we dressed up for?" Angelica asked. "Did you set up a candlelit dinner for two on the terrace?" She craned her neck to look over his right shoulder as she put her arms around him. They were standing in a place that would give her a good view of whatever he had set up out there. "Not that I think it's a bad idea, but it'll give Mrs. Johnson something else to entertain herself with for the night."

"Oh, believe me, she saw enough in the pool earlier," Klaus replied. "Tonight, she won't see anything. Don't worry about that."

"So, we're eating inside?" Angelica asked. "Having a picnic? I don't see any of the tables set out for dinner, and I think this dress is a bit much for pizza in front of the television." She shrugged.

"We're not eating pizza again," Klaus grinned, picking up the keys to his sports car. "I'm taking you out somewhere nice."

The color left Angelica's face. "Excuse me, you're what?"

"All right, all right," he said. He'd expected a reaction like this. "I know we've always stayed inside when you've come over, but…you haven't forgotten restaurants, have you?" He teased, waving his keys over his head. "Besides…it's about time I show my girl—my partner in crime-to the world, don't you think? You're way too beautiful in that dress not to show it off." He then took a deep breath and hoped that she hadn't noticed what he'd very nearly called her.

"No, no, no," she shook her head repeatedly and waved her hands. "We can't. We shouldn't."

"Why not?" Klaus asked, feeling hurt. "Are you embarrassed to be seen in my company, Angel?"

"No!" Angelica shook her head again. "Of course not! Why would you think something like that? Think so low of me?" She demanded, shocked. Then she strode over to him, grabbed his hand, and put it over her heart before kissing his knuckles. "I will never be ashamed to be seen in your company, Klaus Mikaelson!"

"Then please explain to me what's going on in your head, Angel," he requested, stroking her cheek with his hand.

"Well," she sighed and swallowed nervously, moving his hand. "Well…my father knows I'm seeing someone. He doesn't know who, but…" She tried to explain while biting her lip.

Klaus rolled his eyes, underwhelmed. "Here we go with him again! Lucifer! Angel, you don't need your father to tell you what to do or who to date! You're a grown woman and you can sleep with whoever you want."

"I know that, but he's insane these days!" She spat.

"More than usual?" Klaus smirked.

"That's not funny!" Angelica snapped, crossing her arms in front of her chest. "Could you take this more seriously, please?"

"All right, I apologize," he nodded, speaking more compassionately. "Now tell me, what are you afraid of?"

"He's very territorial of me," she said. "Like the special plates in the cabinet that you only bring out for holidays, if that, as I told you. He knows I'm hiding an affair and he wants to kill the person I'm seeing." She lowered her head in shame.

Klaus stared at her in silence for a few seconds, then threw his head back, laughing uproariously.

"Well, I'm glad you find this so amusing!" Angelica snapped, stung.

"If your father wants to kill a man because you've decided to have a life, then let him kill a man," Klaus shrugged. "But I can promise you that that man will not be me." He began making his way to the door that would take them to the garage. "He won't kill me. In fact, I'd probably do more damage to him. So quit your dawdling and get your ass to my car. We're going out and we're going to have a nice evening in spite of all this!" He got to the garage and opened the door, then went outside to bring his car around to the front, but it was a full ten minutes before she appeared to join him, getting in the car to sit by his side.

"You do remember how much my father hates you?" Angelica questioned, buckling her seatbelt and then looking over her shoulder as if her father and grandfather could be summoned by words and were looming menacingly right behind her. "And my grandfather too? And that means they won't show any mercy if they catch you. I want you and wee-wee in one piece, cause I…I enjoy being around the two of you very much."

Klaus gave her a gentle smile and took her hand to kiss it. "I appreciate that, love. Truly, I do. And I'm no more a fan of your father or his old man than they are of me. But you shouldn't let them dictate how you live your life! I'm going to take you out, and we're going to have caviar and pheasant, and if…if they come along and throw temper tantrums, well…that'll just make me more determined to keep you in my life. Not that I need more encouraging."

Angelica stared into his determined gaze and sighed. "All right," she said. "But if we lose our safe place, it's on your head, Mikaelson."

"We won't," he promised, holding her close and kissing her hair. "Not if I can help it!"

Avery looked at the fancy clock on the wall nearby and tapped her nails on the table as she waited for her sister to join her at Chez Michel. Since she'd made the reservation, at least she could have been on time. She still had no idea why Azrael had set up this meeting, but she hoped it wouldn't become a habit since they had nothing in common and the fact that their father could read her mind meant every moment they spent together was a risk. A risk that had ruined their last dinner, just when things were beginning to be nice!

Although, if she were being totally honest, it wasn't waiting for her sister that was bothering her. She still couldn't get over Malachai's weird behavior earlier that day. What had gotten into him? Something not good, that was for damn sure! She sighed and crossed her arms, scanning the tables around her for any sign of her sister, until, at last, she noticed her approaching the table and setting her purse down on it.

"Oh, my gosh," she exclaimed as she looked over what her sister was wearing. "Azrael, is that a Dior dress?"

"Yes," Azrael nodded, feeling a little offended. The red gown was not usually something she would have chosen but it had caught her eye at just the right moment, and it would have been a shame to pass on it. "Why are you so shocked? Can I not have nice things since I'm the Angel of Death?"

"Oh, no, no!" Avery shook her head. "Calm down. I just…I saw it in a magazine, that's all. It looks wonderful on you."

Azrael blushed, feeling a little embarrassed at her defensiveness, since apparently her sister was only trying to give her a compliment. "Well, thank you. I thought so too."

"I mean it!" Avery insisted enthusiastically. "This is how you should dress all the time, instead of that all-black wardrobe of yours, which screams 'I'm the Angel of Death, look at me!'"

"Oh, of course," Azrael drawled. "And nothing says, 'Your time is up, and I've come to take you away from this life' like a red Dior dress!"

"Okay, okay," Avery conceded. "You have a point. But it's not my fault your work outfits are boring."

"Is there anything you do like about me, Avery?" Azrael asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Well, that dress, for one," Avery smirked.

"Oh, bite me," Azrael snapped and reached for her menu.

"What did you want to see me about this time," Avery asked as she did the same. "I hope it won't become a habit of yours. Making us have dinner dates, I mean."

"It will not become a 'thing'," Azrael cried, stung.

"Oh, thank Daddy, because I don't think I could stomach it!" Avery breathed sigh of relief. "No offense."

"None taken. It's just that I needed to talk to someone, and I thought…you know, maybe this was a bad idea after all."

"Seriously?" Avery's eyes widened. "You needed to talk to someone about something important and the first person you thought of was me? I need to call Ellie and see if Hell has frozen over!"

"Yeah, I know," Azrael shook her head. "It's a terrible idea. I'll just go."

She rose, but Avery put a hand on her arm to stop her, since she seemed genuinely troubled. "I'm a good listener," she promised. "If you tell me what the trouble is, maybe I can help." She couldn't believe she was sitting here in public offering to help a sibling she couldn't stand. On most days, anyway.

"No, you're gonna judge me," Azrael shook her head. "And I really don't need-"

"Give me a chance! Is it work-related?"

Azrael nodded.

"Well, you know how I feel about what you do, but…go ahead and open up! You might as well," Avery shrugged.

"Okay," Azrael said. It was evidence of how much she needed to get this off her chest that she was telling Avery of all people. "See, there was this little boy I was supposed to pick up because he was born with a rare disease, right? It would either kill him or make him be in pain all his life." She decided it would be best to tell the story without naming names.

Tears filled Avery's eyes as she put a hand over her heart. "Really? That's so sad!"

"I know!" Azrael nodded. "I was supposed to take him after he was born but it's just…he's determined to live in pain instead. I don't understand it!"

"A boy with a horrible disease…you don't mean Alistair and Astrid Fale's little boy?" Avery's eyes widened. "I didn't even know witches were allowed in heaven!"

"Not…well, supernatural creatures go to a different but similar sort of place if they're good," Azrael tried to explain. "Not the same one the humans do."

"I had no idea!" Avery smiled. "Well, you learn something new every day!"

"Yes, well…Alistair and Astrid don't have any idea how close their son came to, well, you know. And you won't say a word to them about it, will you? I'd like to keep it private." Red was filling Azrael's cheeks.

"Of course, I'll stay quiet," Avery nodded. "How long does the boy have to live?"

"That's the thing, I just don't know anymore!" Azrael murmured. "He was supposed to die at birth or at little after, but he keeps stubbornly hanging on! And of course, it's a big weight on my heart because it means I have to watch a little boy suffer needlessly!" Tears were rolling down her cheeks now.

For once, Avery felt concern and pity for her sister and reached out to take her hand. "I'm sorry, sister. For once, I'm not against you. Watching a child suffer is not something I could handle either!" She grabbed Azrael's hand to squeeze it.

They fell silent as two more patrons entered the dining room.

"Good evening," the hostess greeted them with a smile. "Name please."

"Good evening," Klaus returned. "Reservation is under Mikaelson, Klaus."

As the hostess checked the listing, Angelica grabbed Klaus' hand and smiled. "Wee-wee did a good thing bringing me here," she whispered in his ear.

Klaus chuckled. "Let me assure you that he had nothing to do with it, Angel. It was all me." He gave her a wink before kissing her. "Have I mentioned how beautiful you look in that dress?"

Angie chuckled and blushed. "Not since we got inside the restaurant." She paused. "Thank you again for buying it for me," she said, stroking his jawline and kissing him back. "And I cannot apologize enough for my behavior earlier. It's really nice to be here with you like this. It's been a while since I've had a nice steak."

Klaus chuckled. "You're forgiven!" He told her. "It's easier for me, but wee-wee has higher standards than I do and he'll need a better, longer apology later tonight."

"I'll remember to be kinder to him in the future," Angelica winked.

"I can't wait to get you out of this dress later," Klaus told her, his breath against her ear doing things to her body.

"Klaus Mikaelson, table for two!" The hostess nodded, bringing them back to the present. "Here you are. Please follow me."

Meanwhile, Avery's eyes widened, and she grabbed her glass of red wine to take a big gulp for courage. But instead of swallowing, she sprayed it all over Azrael instead. She'd just seen Klaus and Angie arrive in the dining room.

"What the hell?" Azrael cried, reaching for her napkin to wipe off her face and neck. "What did you do that for? I swear, if this dress is stained, I will kill you with my bare hands!"

Avery just shook her head and put a finger to her lips as she grabbed both their menus and set them upright to hide both her and her sister's faces so Azrael wouldn't notice the pair who had just come in. "Listen to me and look at me," she instructed, surprisingly serious for her. "You can't look. And please believe me when I say that if Daddy reads your mind, we are screwed. Don't think of anything but the simplest stuff, you got it? Nothing complicated."

"Right," Azrael nodded, still confused, but willing to play along since Avery seemed distressed. "Bunnies, trees, sunshine, rain...rainbows…dogs playing with children…"

"Good, good," Avery nodded encouragingly, even though her sister probably thought she was nuts. "Keep doing that! The children playing with puppies is a good one." She then grabbed a scarf out of her purse and put it over her sister's face, hiding her eyes.

"What?" Azrael cried. "Have you lost your mind?"

"No," Avery hissed and gulped down the rest of her wine, leaving a wad of cash on the table. "We need to get the hell out of here. Now."

"But what's wrong?" Azrael protested, unable to see anything but the red of the scarf in front of her eyes. "I don't see anything!"

"Well, that's the point," Avery remarked, pulling her sister to her feet. Then she murmured an apology to the hostess. "We're sorry, but my sister isn't feeling well, and even though we just got here, it's best we leave. Feel free to give our table to someone else."

"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that, ma'am," the hostess replied, looking a little surprised. "Is it something to do with her eyes?"

"What?" Avery's eyes widened and she had to think about it a moment before she understood the question. "Oh, yes, right! Her eyes! Bad case of pink eye. Very contagious. Don't want to get anyone else sick, do we?" Then she dragged Azrael from the restaurant before the hostess could say another word.

"I know I said I wanted steak," Angelica murmured as she perused the menu. "But now I'm not so sure." She looked up at Klaus. "What are you getting?" But then she saw the look on his face and swallowed. "Are you okay?" she asked since he was frowning. "What's wrong?"

"I…I don't want you to worry because I'm sure it's nothing but…I think I saw your aunt Avery leave the restaurant just now."

"What?" Angelica cried, anxiety hitting her as she looked around for her aunt's familiar face but seeing nothing. She'd been right. They couldn't just have a nice night. "You know that all my aunts and uncles can be invisible if they want to," she muttered. "Who knows? There could be several spying on us right now!" She tried to take a drink and calm her nerves, but her hands shook as she reached for her water glass.

"It's going to be all right," Klaus told her, putting his hand in hers and trying to stop the shaking. "I bet I was seeing things. The woman took a companion with a scarf over her head from the room just now. Who knows who they were? It's nothing to worry about."

"Right," Angelica chuckled as a picture of what he'd described entered her mind. "It's nothing. I'm getting myself worked up when I should just be relaxing and enjoying dinner with my partner in crime."

"Yes, you should," Klaus grinned back. "So…you're not going for the steak? Because the filet mignon with the mashed potatoes and green beans sounds really good to me."

"Me too," Angie studied that dish on the menu. "Except I think I'll have a salad."