Chapter 15
The little grave had been well taken care of and Jane smiled as she fixed the pink bow that Rebekah had tied there.
She was sitting next to it, leaning against the headstone lightly.
"I'm sorry I wasn't strong enough." She whispered, fingers trailing in the blades of grass next to her. "You deserved so much more. I just couldn't give it to you."
Suddenly the ground began to shake. Jane gasped as it rocked her backward. The grass around the grave withered and died instantly, leaving patches of dead brown plants. A hand burst through the ground and wrapped around Jane's wrist.
She screamed and tried to pull away, but it was tugging her toward the ground. The hand had a familiar ring upon its finger. The same that every Mikkaelson wore. She screamed again as it pulled her further in, the ground swallowing her arm.
Blood erupted from the ground, flying everywhere.
Jane jerked awake, sitting up in the bed before running a hand over her sweaty face. Her nightmares seemed to be more and more frequent the past few days. She looked over to see Klaus' side of the bed empty except for a folded note and deep red rose lying on the pillow. Smiling she leaned over and picked them up, sniffing the flower before opening the note.
Good morning my love,
I had to leave early with Elijah. We'll be back for dinner. Keep out of trouble, I'll see you tonight.
Yours Always and Forever,
Niklaus
Smiling, Jane rolled out of bed and heaved a sigh. She knew she should let him know about the nightmares, but there never seemed to be a chance too. He was usually gone, still trying to track down who sent those men to their hotel as well as try to regain some of the authority that Elijah had taken in his absence. He was just busy and had a lot more to worry about than nightmares that plagued her.
She hadn't had much time with Freya either. She had spent several months catching up to all her siblings save Klaus and Jane felt guilty thinking about that. Klaus hadn't gotten used to her either, everyone else had. She had caused them to leave and not get to know Freya. Jane recalled being extremely temperamental with her the days following the burial. She wanted to speak to her and get to know her, but at the moment Freya was with Davina.
Jane dug through her clothes, looking for something comfortable to wear. She needed to clear her head, she needed to run.
Marcel looked up in surprise as Jane came down the steps fixing her hair.
"You're up early. Is everything okay?"
Tossing her hair up into a messy knot, she grimaced at him.
"I didn't sleep well." She admitted to him. "Mind if I join you for a run? Although, I'll probably be slow and most likely jog."
He nodded at her. "Of course you can. Are you sure you're up to it?"
"No," She sighed. "But it's better than letting my thoughts wander to places it shouldn't." Her eyes were far away for a moment before she blinked and looked at him again. "Maybe you can tell me what's been going on since we left. Elijah wouldn't tell me if there was something serious. Klaus wouldn't either."
"I probably shouldn't say then."
Jane gave him a look. "You're the only one who won't try to coat my feelings. I need to change my focus."
"All right." Marcel nodded. "But you didn't hear it from me."
After a brief run, they sat at a little café table under the shade of a tree. Jane needed to catch her breath and relax her sore muscles.
"Sorry." Marcel apologized again when she winced as she rubbed her calf. "I shouldn't have kept going. I was doing my usual route."
Jane waved him off. "No, it's okay. I'm not used to moving like that. I…I just wasn't active like I should have been."
He watched for a while longer, sipping at his coffee. Jane seemed to be doing much better than the last time he had laid eyes on her. Since her and Klaus' abrupt arrival three days ago, he hadn't had much time to talk to her. Looking at her now though, he could tell she had lost weight and her eyes had lost that sparkle of happiness that she once had. There was a tiny bit of it now and then when she spoke, but it always faded away.
"So, still no clue about those men?"
Jane shook her head. "No. Klaus contacted my uncle and asked him about it, but Rob had no idea." She sighed. "It was just so strange. How did they know?"
"No idea, but it's coincidental that you interacted with these people and then…wham."
"Yeah, I know." She frowned and then took a sip of her coffee. "How's Davina?"
Marcel frowned. "The other Harvest girls are giving her a hard time. She's trying to get back into doing magic, but something's off. She's not been able to do simple spells." He looked up at Jane, worry shining in his dark eyes. "I'm worried about her, Jane. She comes back so dejected. Not even Kol is able to get her out of her slump."
"How is that going by the way?" Jane smiled knowingly. "He wouldn't really say."
The vampire rolled his eyes. "She is head over heels. And I guess he is too. Hasn't been like that since I've known him."
"I'm glad. I've always hoped he find someone to focus on."
Marcel sighed, but he did smile. "Yeah, it's doing him good, I think. I just don't like it much."
She patted his arm. "Kol really has changed. He won't ever hurt her if he's truly committed. What about Freya?"
"She's working with her too. She's something." Marcel smiled. "Davina likes her, so I think it'll help her magic a bit."
"That's great. I hadn't really gotten to talk to her."
"She talks like she's known you her entire life."
"Really?" Jane raised a brow.
"Yeah, said you rescued her from living alone. She reached out for help and you're the one who answered."
She stirred her coffee a bit, floored. "I'm glad, but I'm not sure how I helped. Kol was the one there."
Marcel shrugged. "You convinced him to listen. That's a feat." Jane laughed and he smirked before it faded. "Have you…have you been to the bayou?"
Jane stiffened and then took a steadying breath, forcing herself to relax as she took another sip of her coffee.
"No…I haven't." She admitted softly. "The less who know we're back immediately the better. I just…had to take a run this morning. Clear my head."
Marcel looked at Jane closely. She appeared fine outwardly, but her eyes…
"Jane, what's wrong? I can see something is wrong." She shook her head and he took her hand. "Hey, remember what I said? "Anyone that messes with you, let me know." Talk to me."
"I don't know, but I feel it. The nightmares I keep having, they mean something. They're all different, but similar at the same time. I can't explain how it's just a feeling."
"Have you told Klaus?"
"No." She shook her head. "I'd rather not bother him right now. Not until I make sense of them."
She noticed Marcel seemed reluctant to continue.
"What is it? What else going on?"
"Elijah and I have been having meetings with the factions. They still don't want to give a seat to the werewolves. I think Jackson and his pack are getting antsy."
"And you don't want too either. Neither does Elijah." She guessed, pressing her lips together.
"No, we don't." He said firmly. "It'll start a war."
"How do you know that it won't start a war not inviting them? They helped us that night, Marcel."
"Not us. Let's be clear about that. They helped you. They made that pretty clear when they were uncursed."
Jane scowled. "So, you don't think that they deserve a place here? Like everyone else?"
Marcel sighed, brow furrowing. "Honestly no, and they would all agree with me. Werewolves are dangerous-"
"Compared to a vampire?" She interrupted. "Or a witch? Why are they any different?"
"You have a point." He said after a moment. "I just don't know if I can trust them right now."
"At least let them have a voice, Marcel."
"You'll have to talk to Elijah, but I guarantee that he and Klaus won't like it one bit."
Jane sighed and glanced at the people passing by.
"I'm heading back now. Are you ready to go?"
"I think I'll visit my baby. Tell Klaus I'll be home soon if I'm not back by dinner. I just need a minute." He nodded, watching her with deep concern as she walked away.
Jane felt a hand on her arm and yelped as someone jerked her into a crowded area. She turned her head to see Katherine.
"What are you doing?!"
"Shut up and move your legs."
Jane pulled at her. "Let go, Katherine. What is wrong with you?"
Not answering, the brunette vampire tugged her through the crowd of people that were hanging around a nearby vendor and then into a clothing store.
"Go. Back there." Katherine instructed and spun Jane around toward the back of the store. The room was deserted, the items were out of season at the moment.
"Why are we in a dress store?"
"Shh. Here. Get in the dressing room." Jerking a black off the shoulder gown off a random rack, she shoved Jane and the dress inside before following and shutting the door.
"What is going on?"
"I'm being followed." Katherine said lowly, peering out through the slats in the door.
"And that means you kidnap me and trap us in a changing stall?"
She was ignored and Jane rolled her eyes.
"Who is following you? The reason you came to New Orleans?"
"I don't know who she is. All I know is that she's damn persistent."
"Maybe we should tell Elijah."
"Maybe you should shut your mouth before we get caught." Katherine retorted. Huffing, Jane sat on the small bench.
"Shit. Stay quiet." Katherine said suddenly and shoved Jane away to make room on the bench.
The store door jingled and Katherine tensed. Footsteps seemed to echo and get louder as they came closer. Two shadows appeared at the bottom of the door. Feet.
Jane poked her and the vampire scowled at her mouthing, "what?"
"Did you lock the door?" Jane mouthed back, pointing at the white slatted door. Unsure, they stared at the doorknob. To their horror, it began to turn. Jane slid off the bench, grabbing the black dress. Katherine grabbed her wrist.
"What are you doing?"
Jane pressed a finger to her lips and turned back around. She opened the door just enough to poke her head out and yelped as she came face to face with Katherine's stalker. A young woman with long brown hair and dark brown eyes, blinked in surprise at her.
"Oh, I'm sorry." She apologized to the woman standing there. "Were you going to use this room?"
"No. My apologies. I thought someone else was in there."
"You don't work here, do you?" Jane asked, holding up the dress. "My friend tried on the wrong size. I keep telling her that she's not gonna fit."
"No, I don't." The woman began walking toward the stall next to them.
"We're planning a trip, so we've literally been here all day long." Jane continued, sliding out of the dressing room, and closing it behind her. She returned the dress to the rack. She felt a tight grip on her wrist and looked over to see the woman, smirking at her.
"That's cute. But I know who you are, Jane Evans."
Jane shook her head. "I'm not-" She stopped, wincing as the woman twisted her wrist, tightening her grip. Jane felt it now, she was a vampire. "Ow. Who are you?"
The vampire twisted her arm again.
"Where is Katherine Pierce?"
"You should really let me go." Jane snapped. The woman felt a change in the air before a rush of air hit her like a ton of bricks and sent her flying into a nearby display. Shelves of purses and accessories fell onto her head.
Katherine took the opportunity to fly out of the dressing room and take Jane's arm.
"Let's go. It obvious that she's not stupid."
Using vamp speed, Katherine zipped them out of the store and back into the crowded sidewalk.
"She's a vampire." Jane murmured as they maneuvered toward the other side of the street.
"Figures. That was pretty badass by the way. You should have done that earlier."
"I didn't mean to make a mess." Jane admitted and looked over her shoulder. "I should apologize to the manager."
Katherine rolled her eyes. "Later. We've got to get home before anything else happens."
Jane gasped as she felt the tip of a knife under her chin and a thin strong arm holding her arms down to her sides. Katherine stiffened.
"That was clever, but as I said, I want to talk to you, Katherine." Jane shifted and the knife prodded harder. "I wouldn't use your magic on me again, elemental. I'd kill you before you got a chance."
Jane shook her head as much as she dared with the knife still at her throat.
"Run, Katherine."
"If you think I wouldn't spill her blood here and now, you're wrong." As she spoke, Jane felt a trickle of blood roll down her neck from the knife. "I know you've been on the run from Klaus Mikaelson for centuries, I'm sure it wouldn't be hard for you to do it again."
"Fine." Katherine said through gritted teeth. "What do you want?"
"Not here." The vampire turned and led them toward a bistro further down the street.
"Sit." The vampire pushed Jane into a metal chair as she and Katherine occupied one of the other two.
"What do you want?" Katherine snapped. "And if it's just me, then you shouldn't have brought her. They'll notice she's missing. They know she's accident prone."
"Shut up, Katherine." Jane scowled at her.
The other vampire snorted. "It won't take long and I'm not stupid enough to let her go calling your lover Elijah Mikaelson."
"Then tell us what you want so we can go." Katherine rolled her eyes.
"Trust me I'm not telling anyone. They'll lock me in the house." Jane added and they glanced at her. Katherine smirked.
"It's true."
"I've been tailing you for 500 years." The vampire said to Katherine. "There are a few things I was hoping to clear up."
"Why would I tell you anything?" She raised an eyebrow.
"You indulge me in some answers, and I will let you both go."
"Really? Our freedom in exchange for a little Q&A? hm. Okay…" She sat back, looking expectantly at the vampire in front of her.
"In 1864, there was a vampire roundup in Mystic Falls."
"Was there? I'm bad with dates." Katherine retorted and Jane kicked her chair.
The mysterious vampire ignored them. "Word on the street is that you sold out many vampires including your best friend Pearl and her daughter Annabelle."
"I was running from Klaus. I needed to jet solo. I threw a couple of vampire names on the hit list. Sue me." Katherine scoffed. Jane scowled. "I also impersonated a teenager to get my ex-boyfriends to make out with me, staged a fake fight to trigger my lover's werewolf curse, ooh, and I chopped off this douchey guy's fingers with a butcher knife once. That was cool."
Jane gagged. "Eww."
The doppelganger rolled her eyes.
"It was John Gilbert, you should be thanking me for that after what he did to your dad."
"You were the one who let him out of the house to begin with!" Jane exclaimed.
The vampire slapped a palm on the table, startling them and leaned closer.
"What about ripping a mother away from her daughter, having her killed for your own benefit?"
Katherine narrowed her eyes. "What are you getting at?"
"Now, a little bit about me. I had myself turned into a vampire to hunt you, to even the playing field, to track your every move for however long it took it took me until I found you, and I did this, because you killed my mother."
Jane's mouth opened and closed in shock, staring at Katherine.
"It happened in Paris, 1645."
"I go to Paris for shoes." She snorted. "The shoes I remember, everything else requires a few more details."
"Her name was Lily Atoma. You were on the run from Klaus. She took you in, but when his minions showed up, you pointed at my mom and said "That is Katerina Petrova. She is the one you want." So they took her away."
"Katherine?" Jane frowned.
"Shut up."
Katherine spotted an elderly person sitting at another table. His wooden cane leaning against the table. Snatching it, she stabbed the vampire in the chest, breaking it off and startling several people.
"Katherine!" Jane shrieked, but the doppelganger grabbed her wrist and sped them away. They went over the street and into the next availably empty, alleyway.
"What in the hell!?" She demanded of the vampire when she finally let go of her.
"You have the ability to run faster than a human, so why don't you? Makes it less of a hassle tugging you along like a toddler."
Jane scowled. "Maybe you should just tell me why this lady is after you?"
"I don't have a clue. That's why we're waiting." She said, rolling her eyes impatiently.
"Did you kill her mother?" She asked quietly.
"No, dummy. It was a made-up story." Katherine rolled her eyes.
Ignoring the insult for the moment, Jane asked: "Why would she tell you a fake story?"
"To get me to listen, I suppose." She sighed and then tilted her head.
"What are we waiting for? Her backup?" The blonde asked, looking around warily. Katherine didn't seem interested.
"I think she's alone. Otherwise, I would have noticed them. In any case, she's been hounding me for 500 years, let her find us." Katherine tilted her head. "And there she is."
The injured vampire limped into the alley, falling against the wall and holding her chest, where the broken cane still remained.
"There you are." Katherine walked over to her. The injured vampire, looked up at her slightly glassy eyed. "Having trouble getting that out?" She indicated the wood. "I grazed your heart on purpose."
Jane felt a throbbing pain in her gums at the sight of the blood that was going down the woman's chest. She turned her head quickly, feeling her fangs wanting to drop down and her she knew her eyes were black.
She didn't know why she was hungry for blood, but it frightened her. It had come upon her so suddenly that she felt almost dizzy from the fast change in her system. The scent of the vampire's blood was overwhelming. She backed away into the opposite wall.
"Which means you don't want me dead. You want something." The vampire huffed.
Katherine nodded, back to Jane so she saw nothing of the girl's retreating form.
"I do. I want to know why you made up that fake story about your mom."
"It was a test. You failed." The vampire panted, eyeing her.
"I knew it was a fake story." She smirked. "By 1645 I'd been running from Klaus for a century and a half. There's no way any of his minions would ever mistake anyone for me, but you know how my brain works, right? So you must have known I wouldn't have fallen for that sob story."
"I wanted to get under your skin, and it worked because here you are." Katherine grabbed the crude stake and twisted it firmly. More blood appeared and the hurt vampire winced.
Jane covered her nose and mouth, but it did little to help her hunger. A strong part of her wanted to shove Katherine aside and feed, so strong that she had to clench her fists.
"What kind of sick game are you playing?" Katherine snarled.
"It's not a game, Katherine. You did kill my mother, only it wasn't in Paris. It was in a little cottage in England, and it wasn't 1645. It was April 6th, 1492, and she was all alone exiled by her family two years earlier. You stuck her head in a noose, pushed her off the chair, and snapped her neck. Then killed her best friend." The vampire glanced at Jane briefly, confused by the girl's position against the far brick wall. "Her ancestor."
"Who are you?" Katherine and Jane asked at the same time. One furious and one curious. Jane hoped the curiosity would stay the urge to feed for a while.
"My name is Nadia Petrova and you are my mother."
Jane gasped sharply and looked at Katherine who seemed flabbergasted for once.
"No…"
"Yes. I'm a Petrova." Nadia said, nodding her head.
Jane caught Katherine's arm when she backed up.
"Wait a second. You can't run off now! She's your daughter, Katherine."
Katherine paused and got a good look at Jane's face. "What the hell is the matter with you?"
"What do you mean?" Jane asked nervously, hoping that her facial features were behaving.
"You look sickly. Don't tell me that you're getting squeamish. You and I have seen firsthand what your boyfriend is capable of-"
"I'm just not feeling so great."
Katherine studied her for a moment, thinking about calling Elijah.
"Do you need me to call-" She started to offer, but Jane interrupted her.
"No, and that's besides the point." She added quickly, pushing the vampire toward Nadia. "Go talk to her."
"You can see if she's lying." The doppelganger pointed out. "Go check…If you can."
"Yes." Jane scowled. "I'm fine."
"Tell that to your face."
Feeling guilty and embarrassed by her reactions, Jane took a deep breath.
"Just don't take off, okay?" She prompted and got a nod in response. "Okay." Jane knelt in front of Nadia and offered her hand to a reluctant and suspicious vampire. "It's okay. I won't hurt you." Nadia set her hand in Jane's and the elemental closed her eyes. Flashes of images appeared in her head and Jane sorted them out.
"You are her daughter. You were alive all that time. No one could make that up."
She looked up at Katherine when Nadia could no longer stay awake from blood loss. "We can't leave her here and we can't take her to the compound. Not yet anyway." Katherine remained silent.
And I can't go back yet, she added internally.
Jane glanced up again. "My uncle's apartment. We can go there. Apparently, he still pays rent on it or something, no one's been in there. I have the key with me."
Katherine nodded.
"This is the great secret apartment?" Katherine snorted when Jane got the door unlocked. "Looks like a dump." She dumped Nadia unceremoniously onto the nearby bed. Jane glanced around. The apartment was small, with few furnishings. Tacky yellow walls and semi clean wooden floors made up the majority of the room. The kitchen had a fridge, stove, microwave, sink, and a small round table with two chairs. Not far away was a bed with faded red comforter.
"Well, I'll admit, I don't see anything fantastic about it." She sighed. "But at least it's clean. Father Kieran must have kept it tidy all these years."
Katherine merely rolled her eyes.
Jane opened the fridge and peered inside. "Nothing, but a pack of beer." The brunette vampire wrinkled her nose.
"Do you want me to stay?" Jane asked gently, looking at Nadia. It wouldn't take her long to recover from the stake.
"No, I'll manage. You on the other hand don't look so well. You've been eating, haven't you?"
"Yeah. I don't know why it's happening." She buried her face into her hands, sitting in one of the kitchen chairs.
"Because you've been out of it for the past few months. You need to recharge." Katherine pointed out. "Go eat something. And tell Elijah I'll be home later."
She nodded and then smiled at her. "I'm happy for you, Katherine. She's alive. Your baby grew up."
Katherine nodded, a small smile at her lips. "I looked for her. 1498. She would have been eight. I searched every village in Bulgaria, every cottage. Never found her."
"Now you have a chance to know her." Jane smiled. "I'll see you later."
The vampire nodded and Jane let mother and daughter be.
"Jane! Where the bloody hell have you been?!" Rebekah shrieked and rushed toward her as she entered the compound. "We've been worried!"
Jane blinked at her. "I-I just went to visit the baby." She said and gave her a sheepish look. "I'm sorry I'm late, Bekah."
The Original sighed shaking her head. "You didn't answer your phone, sweets. I thought something had happened to you." She pulled Jane into a hug and the girl looked over her shoulder.
"Flowers?"
"Yes." Rebekah stepped back, frowning at the assortment of lilies in different shades of color laying on the table. "They arrived for you, shortly after you left this morning. No note this time, other than a card with your name on it." She eyed the white card with anxiousness.
Jane sighed. "Just throw them away. I'll, um, tell Klaus when he gets back."
Rebekah observed Jane carefully, noting that she didn't look well. She appeared tired and worked up about something.
The Original tilted her head. "Are you all right, sweets? You didn't sleep well?" She inquired.
"Yeah, and I'm just tired. It's been a long day." She smiled at her friend reassuringly and Rebekah smiled back, though she remained concerned. "I went for a run with Marcel earlier and I took the long route. I'm going to get ready for dinner."
"Jane?"
The girl turned on the steps.
"You'd tell me if something was wrong, wouldn't you? You'd tell Nik?"
"Why do you ask?"
"Because running is avoiding. And you've been gone all day." She raised an eyebrow. Jane looked at the railing for a moment.
"Rebekah, it's-"
The Original lifted her hand to stop her. "I'm not trying to guilt you, but do try to remember that we love you."
Jane slid the chunky bracelet down her wrist, Rebekah's words still making a loop in her head.
It was wrong to hide things from Klaus and his siblings, but the truth could end up with mother and daughter being chased off and it wouldn't be fair for Katherine and Nadia to have to run. They had a chance to reunite. A chance that Jane would give anything to have with her own child. It was true, Nadia was no little girl, but she was still Katherine's flesh and blood. No mother could turn her back on her own child no matter what age. Except for Esther, Jane thought bitterly.
She stared at her own reflection in the vanity mirror, only long enough to fix her hair before looking away again. She couldn't stand her own reflection. The haunted look in her eyes that would never go away. The eyes of failure and loss. Her failure at everything. The look she knew that Rebekah had seen and would probably question her about later.
A sudden sharp pain in her gums rushed through her and she gasped, bending over slightly, and squeezing her eyes shut. She felt hungry again. And not in the way she had been only moments before. She had a stronger urge to feed that frightened her and an even stronger urge to hide which confused her.
"Love?"
Hands on her shoulders startled her and she glanced up into the mirror to see Klaus watching her with concern.
"What's wrong?"
"Nothing." She said automatically. "I'm just tired." She gave him a smile, which he returned hesitantly, his eyes still searching her over for any signs of distress. Just seeing him made her feel better, even if was just marginally.
"Thank you for the flower."
"Anytime, my love." Klaus murmured, as he pressed light kisses along her neck. She sighed and leaned against him, eyes fluttering shut. "Just tired?"
"Yeah. It's been a long day."
"I don't want you overexerting yourself, sweetheart."
Jane sighed and opened her eyes. "It was just a run." She lied, hoping he wouldn't and couldn't see her urge to feed.
"Marcel mentioned you hurt yourself." He knelt next to her seat, probing her left calf with gentle fingers. A twinge of soreness flared, and she winced.
"No, I'm fine. Just sore. Being a couch potato does that you know."
Klaus frowned and let go of her calf, turning her to face him. She tilted her head at him curiously.
"Has someone said something to you?" He demanded, the look in his eyes clear.
She smiled at his concern and protectiveness.
"No." She shook her head. "But I can't lay around and do nothing, you know."
"Why can't you?" He asked softly. "You need not lift a finger."
"Because it's not practical. I-I let everything pass by me for so long…"
"What do you mean, love? No one expects you to make up for anything. Have my siblings been behaving themselves?"
"Klaus, they've been wonderful since we've been back and that's just it. They shouldn't have to feel like walking on eggshells around the house. Not for me. Not when I caused so much hurt to them before we left."
"Not one of them blame you, Jane."
"Well, I do." She said sharply, even as tears blurred her vision. "I failed at having and protecting a baby, failed at defending myself, failed at everything. If I can't even do that, then what am I good for?" The words spilled out as quickly as the tears and Jane lowered her head. "Even now I've disappointed myself. Disappointed you. Them. I just can't seem to stop falling apart." She whispered.
The conversation had taken a rather sharp turn, and she felt the need to hide under the covers and never come out. Why couldn't she have kept it in longer? Now he knew about her instability. And how this new hunger attack was gnawing away at her even now. She he would be disappointed if she couldn't control herself.
"Jane, look at me, my love." He touched her chin and she glanced at him sorrowfully. His eyes were filled with regret and deep sadness. "There was nothing you could have done, sweetheart. You're not a failure and you're certainly not a disappointment to me nor my siblings."
"I feel like it." She whispered truthfully. "I'm sorry."
He sighed and stroked her face. "No, don't apologize, my love." He cupped her face and smiled sadly. "One day at a time, sweetheart. It just takes time."
She nodded, wiping away her tears. He always made her feel better. As long she had his love, she felt that she could draw from his strength. She had to, she had put enough pressure and burden on him already. Losing the baby and then watching her fall apart. He couldn't hold himself responsible for all that because he wasn't. She was.
"I love you, Niklaus."
"And I love you more than I can say." He kissed her softly and she pressed her forehead against his. "Do you feel like eating?" She nodded and he stood, holding his hand out to her. "Shall we?" Smiling she took his hand and let him pull her up. The smile faded.
"Oh, um, Klaus, someone left me flowers again and once again no name."
He frowned. "When?"
"After I left with Marcel. Rebekah found them." She looked at him anxiously. "I thought it was over. That it had been Laurent."
He shook his head. "Apparently whoever was doing it before was waiting for us to come back." He didn't want to hide it from her with her being so fragile already. He showed his phone. "This is from when we got to the baggage claim. It was why I was tense."
"It's really not over, is it?" She whispered fearfully, reading it over, and he cupped her face.
"I swear I will find whoever is doing this and they will not harm you."
Jane hugged him tightly, tucking her head under his chin. She blinked as she realized that perhaps that was what the urges were about. She was feeling his stress.
"It's all right, my love." He said into her hair. "I'm going to keep my promise this time. No one is going to harm you." He pulled away, leaving the room, and she looked after him.
"Klaus!"
He either ignored her calling to him or didn't hear her.
"It wasn't your fault either." She said quietly.
Jane glanced around at the semi quiet group at the table. None seemed particularly bothered by the silence and she felt that it had obviously been that way since her absence. She had been too distracted the past few days to really take notice of it, but now that she paid attention, she realized she didn't like the silence.
"Davina."
The young witch looked up from her plate, curious and somewhat relieved to be in a conversation.
"How are things going? Are the witches being mean to you?"
"Sort of." Davina sighed. "Maybe I'm just not good at it anymore."
"No way! You're a brilliant witch!" Jane protested and the teen smiled a little. "So, what else happened today?"
"Um, well, Sophie mentioned restarting a tradition now that we can practice magic again."
Kol looked at her. "What tradition?"
"Feasts."
"Like a party?" Jane inquired. "A witch party?"
Davina nodded. "Yes, she said she wants to celebrate The Fete Des Benedictions. Feast of the Blessings. In the past, members of the community offered witches gifts in exchange for blessings."
Jane met Rebekah's eyes and they both smiled.
"Can they do it?" They asked simultaneously and Kol snorted. Klaus, Marcel, and Elijah exchanged looks. Jane touched Klaus' arm.
"Please, Klaus? It sounds like so much fun!" She beamed and for a long moment, he saw the spark of excitement in her eyes he had missed.
"Very well, love. We'll discuss it with them tomorrow."
Still smiling, she turned to Davina who was smiling nervously. "Don't worry. It's going to be great!"
"Tell us more about it." Rebekah demanded. "I need to know what to wear."
Freya smiled. "Well Sophie said that each Harvest girl will demonstrate their own blessing out of the four elements. Air, Water, Earth, and Fire."
"Which will you pick?" Jane asked Davina.
"I'm not sure." Davina chewed her lip.
"Davina thinks the Ancestors are still punishing her for the Harvest." Freya murmured. "They are being vindictive."
Jane scowled. "Davina, you did nothing wrong. Anyone in their right mind would have run from that. You stay strong and your powers will come back full force. I believe it."
"She's right." Freya said. "It's what I've been telling you. You're holding yourself back. I can tell you are powerful. Give it a chance."
Davina nodded. "I'll try."
Marcel tilted his head. "And don't they give gifts to the young witches?" The teenager nodded.
"Favors."
"Even better reason to have a party." Rebekah smirked and the teen laughed.
Jane turned to Klaus, reaching up to stroke his face.
"Penny for your thoughts?"
He chuckled, catching her hand and kissing her fingertips before tangling his fingers with hers.
"It's nothing, my love."
She laid her head on his bare chest.
"Maybe you could send the number on the phone to Alaric or Rob. They might be able to track it."
"I've thought of that. I wouldn't trust anyone else too." He responded. "Try and rest, you're tired."
"Um, Mona texted me earlier." She murmured against him and winced when he stiffened. "I haven't answered."
"She wants you to visit." He said stoically.
"Yes, but if it's not safe-"
"Take Freya with you." He answered automatically. "Perhaps it would be good to visit."
"You can come too, you know. Mona likes you."
Klaus snorted. "I'm still not too inclined about that side of my genes."
Jane nodded and kissed his jaw. "I know. Maybe someday."
"Jane! Oh, it's so good to see you, sweet girl!" Mona embraced her warmly and Jane smiled.
"It's good to see you too, Mona."
Mona patted her cheek and then hugged Freya. "Dear, Freya!"
There were shouts and loud rambunctious noise coming from village of the bayou. Jane turned to Mona.
"What's going on?"
The woman shook her head and tossed her blonde hair over her shoulder.
"Men acting like boys. They'll never change." She led them to where a large circle of werewolves were standing, watching something in the middle ring. Some of the group shifted to give them room, most of them greeting Jane warmly. Hayley turned to see her as did Jackson. Jane noticed they were holding hands and smiled softly.
"Hey, you're back!" Jackson greeted, hugging her. Jane almost laughed at how affectionate they all seemed to be. So much different than the Mikaelsons which she had to pretty much initiate it all.
"Why aren't you out there playing fight club?" Jane asked him teasingly and he smirked.
"It's for pecking order. They already know who's the alpha." He winked at Hayley who laughed and shook her head.
"So, Mrs. Alpha?" Jane raised an eyebrow and Hayley shrugged sheepishly.
"I'm still reeling her in." Jackson laughed, tossing an arm around Hayley and she smiled.
"I hope you girls are hungry." Mona said to Jane and Freya. "We've made plenty."
"You gotta try Tucker's ribs." Jackson told her.
"And then we'll go play horseshoes?" Freya joked and he smirked back.
"Don't mock country living, darlin'."
"I'm so glad you're all doing okay. I…" Jane glanced at her lap for a moment. "I'm sorry I didn't do more."
"Hey, we're all okay. Thanks to you, we're here all the time without waiting for a full moon." Jackson assured her.
"I didn't do much."
"Why don't you just tell her why you invited her here, Jackson?" Oliver asked rudely, moving over to their table.
"Ollie, knock it off." He warned.
"What's Elijah's deal, huh, not giving us a say? We got rid of those pesky witches that were plaguing the city. We earned our right to sit at that summit meeting."
Jane blinked at the hostility before frowning. "I'm sorry you're feeling slighted but I'm not sure what I can-"
"Oliver." Hayley said sternly but was ignored.
"You've got the Mikaelsons wrapped around your finger, Jane. Ever since you and Klaus got together by that supernatural force. So don't sit there and lie, acting like you don't know what you can do. You want to help us so bad? Get us out of the swamp life? Get your boyfriend and his suit wearing brother to give us a place. Otherwise, you're not of use to any of us."
"Oliver, get out." Jackson snapped. "That's enough. Jane's family, that's why she was invited."
Oliver snorted. "Yeah, sure. See you around, sis."
He stomped out of the tent, giving her one last smug look. Jane watched him go and then looked down at her half-eaten food.
"Jane, I apologize about him."
"But it's true isn't it? You want a spot."
"Well, we deserve a say."
Jane nodded. "I know you do, but I…I don't know if I can help that way." She stood, Freya looking at her.
"It's okay." Jackson nodded. "We've been at it for months with them. Please stay."
"I'm going for a walk. I'm not hungry anymore." She quickly exited the tent.
Freya found her a half-hour later, sitting near the bank of the bayou water.
"Are you okay?" She asked gently, sitting on the log next to her. Jane sighed heavily.
"Oliver is right. Marcel mentioned it yesterday to me and I didn't do anything about it. I-" She frowned out at the water. "The last time I tried to do something good for the werewolves, Klaus threw a fit. I'm sure he'd throw another one and I don't want to start an argument, but they do deserve a say. New Orleans is everyone's home. Not just witches, vampires, humans…it's werewolves too."
"Then you should do something. They are your people as well as Niklaus' right? They'll get over it. Stubborn as they are, Oliver was right about them caring about you."
Jane smiled before turning to her. "Marcel said I saved you. I don't understand."
"I was taken from my mother at the age of five. Elijah wasn't born yet. Finn never knew what happened to me. I was taken by our Aunt Dahlia."
"An aunt? I didn't know Esther had a sister."
Freya nodded. "She's a powerful witch. Controlling and cruel. The reason that I call you my hero, Jane, is because you are. You awoke me from a century long sleep. Now I can be with my family."
"I don't-You were asleep for a century?!" She sputtered.
Freya laughed. "Yes. It was a spell that Dahlia had cast. Only to wake for a single year of life. I've repeated this cycle for hundreds of years. It started as a way for us to still be young and beautiful. She said if a witch can't be immortal, this was the next best thing. But in time I realized that all her stories were paired with lies. I fled from her years ago and I've been running ever since."
"She's still alive then."
"Yes, always hunting. To Dahlia any act of betrayal is punishable by death." Freya took her hand. "But you need not fear her. She's my cross to bear as I've told my brothers."
"I'm sure Elijah and Finn went right along with that." Jane said pointedly and Freya laughed.
"Yes. They didn't take it quite as well."
"You don't have to fear her either, Freya. We'll protect you. We protect family."
Freya hugged her. "I've waited centuries to be part of a family again. Thank you so much." Jane smiled and hugged her back. A twig snapped behind them.
They turned to see Oliver emerge with an apologetic look on his face.
"I'm sorry."
"You don't have to apologize. You're right." She stood and wiped her hands on her jeans. "I'll try it bring it up gradually, that's all I can promise right now."
He nodded and then thumbed behind him. "Wanna dance?"
Jane and Freya laughed.
"I've been meaning to talk to you, Jane." Mona murmured. "Have you and Klaus talked about marriage?"
Jane was still for a moment, shocked at the sudden question.
"Oh, um, no." She said slowly. "Not for a long time anyway."
The woman nodded and glanced out over the crowd of dancing werewolves.
"I only ask because of Klaus' bloodline. They are still here in the bayou as are the other packs."
Jane looked at her in confusion. "They are? Why? I-I don't have a…" She took a breath. "I'm not pregnant. That's why they came didn't they?"
"Only one of the reasons, Jane. They've stayed because there was a chance that you and Klaus would marry."
She looked down at the engagement ring that Klaus had given her last summer, stroking it with a finger. It was a beautiful princess cut diamond with several smaller ones in the band. Jane didn't want to look it up, she was positive it was extremely expensive.
"Jackson and Hayley were arranged to be married long before they were born."
Jane looked at Mona.
"Really? They seem happy together. It worked out well."
"Yes." The woman smiled and then sighed.
I was just wondering if the two of you had discussed it."
Jane looked back at the fire. "No, not since…" She trailed off and Mona patted her hand.
"I'm sure you'll have that talk when you're ready."
Klaus leaned, arms folded, against the wall of the shack, eyes dark and focused on Jane. She was dancing with Jackson Kenner, her head thrown back in a laugh as he spun her to the "hillbilly" music. Her hair cascaded down her back in curls of gold, the firelight from the large fire pit making it glow. She was beautiful. And she was his. The thought made him shift against the wall, arms tightening and fingers clenching.
It had been too long since he had claimed her, and his wolf was desperate for her attention. And it most certainly didn't like how Jackson's hands were on her even as chaste as they were.
Jane turned her head, spotting him instantly and she smiled brightly. She excused herself from Jackson and came toward him.
"Hey. Sorry I didn't realize it was that late." She said after catching her breath. Her cheeks were pink from the fire and her dancing. It was the liveliest he had seen her in months. He dragged his fingers across her cheek lightly, making a shiver go through her. His eyes darkened.
"Having fun?"
She nodded, brushing a stray curl out of her face and behind her ear. Klaus' eyes tracked the movement with heated intensity. Jane felt warmth spread throughout her body, her stomach clenching as golden yellow flecked across his eyes briefly.
"Good." He said and then he gripped her hips to tug her flush against him. His mouth covered her gasp of shock, arms ensnaring her as he walked backward, drawing her into the dark.
Jane gulped in air as he pressed her against the dark wall of the shack, his mouth leaving heat along her neck as he kissed at her skin.
"Klaus-"
He silenced her protests with another deep kiss. She submitted to him instantly, her body molding against his as she put her arms around his neck.
Quickly he had her pinned to the wall, rolling his hips into hers as he held her arms trapped on either side of her head and buried his nose in her neck. Her scent drove him mad with need.
She gasped, arching her back as he nipped and sucked at her neck, marking her. She ran her hands into his hair and jerked his lips back on hers. He growled at the slight sting from her grip, teeth biting down into her flesh in retaliation, making her bleed. He sucked at her lip as she dragged her nails down his back harshly, marking him back. His hands went to her jeans snapping them open and she spread her legs, demanding his touch. Her eyes fluttered open to meet his heated gaze, eyes liquid gold. Her own turned black, the little veins making an appearance. She bit into his neck as he ground against her thigh with a low growl. It had been a long time since they had coupled and she needed him.
He shoved the denim down her hips, his fingers finding her already soaked panties and he teased her through the fabric, making her buck her hips.
Her eyes slid past Klaus, over his shoulder, and she stiffened. Someone was watching them. A chill of fear went through her body and she clenched her fist in his shirt, breath hitching.
Klaus sensed she was losing her focus when she leaned away from him, facial features going back to normal. He pressed his forehead against her shoulder, breathing raggedly as he tried to control his own urges.
"All right, sweetheart?"
"Someone's out there." She whispered, eyes on the figure that was standing under a dark tree. "Watching us."
Tensing, Klaus turned, blocking her protectively. He scanned the area, frowning. All was still, quiet, except for the music still playing nearby. Dark shadows of trees and undergrowth was all he could see.
"Where?"
"What?" Jane looked around him, frowning into the dark. "They were under the tree. I swear I saw somebody. Therewas someone there."
"I believe you, love." He said quietly. "But there's nobody there now." He leaned away from her, shifting from foot to foot. "It's late. We should head back." Jane flinched at his slightly disappointed tone.
"I…I'm sorry."
"Quite all right, sweetheart. You're tired. I'll fetch Freya."
Jane watched him walk away and then looked around slowly with a sense of dejection. There had been someone there. Hadn't there? Yes, she was sure of it. They had been leaning against the far tree. But if she was wrong, then she jeopardized her chance to be with him with. He'd probably avoid her for a bit, thinking she wasn't near healed enough, which made her feel worse.
Jane went toward the woods slowly, scanning for the mysterious figure. Maybe if she found them, caught them snooping then he'd really believe her. Crickets chirping, softly playing music from the campfires playing behind her, and the occasional bird sound was all she could hear.
She started to turn away when she heard a voice.
…Jane…Jane…
"Hello?"
…Jane…Jane…Jane…
She stepped further into the darkened woods. She blinked as her eyes slightly adjusted. The moon was barely coming through the thick branches overhead. A chill went down her spine. It was very cold here. Colder than it already was. Unnaturally cold.
…Filthy…
This voice was different. Gravelly and dark.
…Disgusting…
Jane moved toward the voice and then stopped. Ahead of her in the middle of a clump of bushes, was a figure. A woman with dark tresses of matted hair. She wore a white dresss, like a night gown. Her back was too her.
"Hello? Who are you?"
…Filthy…Disgusting…Get out
"Excuse me," she tried again. "Are you okay?" She reached out but the figure whirled to face her and Jane stumbled back as it shouted:
…Filthy little bitch! Disgusting whore! You don't belong here!
Jane screamed as the ghostly woman launched at her with long crooked nails. Knocking her to the ground. The lady had no face and yet was screaming at her like a banshee, loud and earsplitting.
Whore! whore! You shouldn't have come back! should have stayed gone!
It howled at her. She felt the nails scratch at her face, then hands gripped her wrists, pinning them to the ground with surprising strength.
Think he loves you? Think he wants you? You're broken in body and soul. Filthy, filthy!
Jane screamed and thrashed over and over, trying to get the woman off her. She shut her eyes. It wasn't real, it wasn't real!
"Get off me! Get off me!"
"Jane! Jane." A voice said sharply and she forced her eyes open. Above her was Klaus, looking down at her with a look of fright and deep concern.
"It's all right, my love. It's just me."
"K-klaus? Where'd…Where'd she go?"
"Who?" He frowned, helping her sit up.
"That w-woman that attacked me." Jane gazed around wildly, but only saw Freya who was watching her gravely, Jackson, Hayley, Mona, and most of the pack. There was no more music playing. All was silent. All were watching her, staring at her with different emotions raging from pity to fear.
"I've only seen you, love" Klaus said gently, brow furrowed. "You were on the ground screaming."
"You didn't see her? You didn't hear her?"
"No." Freya spoke up and Jane looked at her as did everyone else. "But there was something here. I can feel it."
"Here, dear."
Jane jumped when Mona put a blanket over her shoulders. There was a pitying look in her eyes. She had to look away from her, from everyone and opted to stare at the ground instead. She felt foolish, she couldn't explain what had happened. They wouldn't believe her. Freya might, but it was a small chance.
Klaus cleared his throat. "I think it's time to go."
Jane hadn't spoken the rest of the way home, though Freya had tried to coax her into speaking. She didn't want to talk to anyone.
"Talk to me, sweetheart." Klaus murmured, sitting on the edge of the bed.
She stared at her lap, lips tight.
"I know you're still hurting, Jane." He continued quietly. Jane raised her head. "It's understandable to-"
"You think I made it up?" She demanded, hurt in her voice, her eyes hard with anger. "Why would I make something like that up, Klaus?!"
"I didn't say that. I merely mean that perhaps you are seeing this person appear because of how you're feeling. Like you mentioned yesterday about feeling inadequate. I know it's not been easy on you."
Jane's lip trembled. "You think I'm projecting my feelings about myself and self-harming!?" She held up her clearly scratched wrists. "Look at me! You think I did it myself?"
Klaus pinched the bridge of his nose. "No, Jane, but you must admit that it was rather odd that it happened after I tried to be intimate with you. then what the apparition was saying to you… Is that what you think? That I wouldn't want you?"
"I'm not lying! I'm not insane! Why won't you believe me? Even Freya said she felt-"
"Freya is a witch that's been cooped up in a mad house for a few decades! If the wind changes direction, it's probably a bad omen to her!" Klaus shouted back, though he tried to keep calm. "Please, love, I want to help you. But you make it difficult."
"Get out. Or better yet I'll leave!" She tossed the covers back and stood, hissing when Klaus blocked her from leaving.
"This is ridiculous. You're being unreasonable-"
"You're just pissed because I didn't want to screw in the woods!" Jane accused. "I'm so sorry that the ghost or whatever ruined your good time."
Klaus scowled. "That's not fair, love. I wasn't angry about that. I told you."
"No you accused me of being tired and didn't even bother to go looking."
"Jane, I thought you were trying to distract me because you weren't ready yet."
"But I did see something, Klaus. I'm not lying or hiding, I'm just scared. It hurt me. What if it hurts me again?"
"You shouldn't be outside the compound."
"I'm not going to stay inside all the time."
"Oh, yes, you are. It's apparent that you need too."
"No, I'm not. There's no reason too!"
"No reason?" Klaus mocked. "Has the fact that we had to pack up and leave in the middle of the night left your memories already? Or that something haunted you this very evening?"
"Don't call me stupid." She snapped. "I know very well why we left. And tonight…You don't believe anyhow, but that's no reason for me to stay inside all the time."
He pinched the bridge of his nose for patience. "Jane, sweetheart, until we know why those men showed up, it's not safe. And it's obviously far safer for you inside than outside."
"Are you insinuating that I can't protect myself? I have every right to be able to go where I want!"
Klaus snarled. "This is not up for debate! I said no."
"I can go if I want too!" She shouted at him, confused, hurt, and angry all at once. She didn't understand why he was being so rude to her.
"It's over. Now get back into bed."
"What the hell is your problem!?" She hissed at him, eyes flickering black with rage. "It's not fair that you're basically saying I have no say!" Jane jabbed him in the chest with her finger. "Why are you being such an asshole!?
"Jane. I've had enough of your attitude. You slipped away from Rebekah this morning."
"I went on a run with Marcel." Jane rolled her eyes. "I don't need a babysitter."
"The bloody hell you don't." He scoffed. "Do we need a recap on the hotel? Or tonight?"
"Well, you weren't there half the damn time anyway were you!?" She snapped at him aggressively. "You weren't there all the times one of them came in and fucking took pictures of me sleeping! And I don't even want to talk about tonight!"
Guilt punched him in the gut and only fueled his fear at finding screaming in the woods which in turn made his anger grow.
"I wouldn't have had too if you had been coherent to your own surroundings!" He shot back and she faltered slightly. "Instead, you were in your own little world! Like tonight for example. Walking off alone into the woods after hearing something calling your name?" He mocked. "Did you even consider that it dangerous?!"
"Well, excuse me for having a mental breakdown! You should try it sometime, you fuckin' ass! But I wasn't having one tonight!"
"Mental breakdown or ignorance?" He mocked. "Guilt for not saving our child? Guilt for not wanting to be intimate yet?"
Jane clenched her fists. "How dare you!? I couldn't help her, I already admitted that! and I told you why I stopped earlier. It wasn't that I didn't want-"
"Just admit it. You don't want me the same way anymore."
"That's not fair! Of course, I do."
"I see no proof of it!"
"Shut up," Jane continued. "You need to point at yourself in that situation, Mr. Mikaelson. Where the fuck were you when they were attacking me!? When that thing was attacking me!?"
"I tried to get to you!" He shouted. "I was too late!"
"Really? I couldn't tell!"
"Perhaps you're right and don't need to be protected. You're obvious good at it! Look at how well you escaped your invisible foe."
"Screw you." She snapped. "I'm not pregnant anymore so there's no reason for you to be! There's nothing there for you!"
"Good. Far be it from me to lift a finger. Do it yourself."
"Fine. I will."
With that he turned and strode of the bed, slamming the door shut with hard crack that sent several objects rattling on the walls.
Breathing rapidly and hurt beyond what she ever felt before, Jane collapsed on the bed and sobbed.
Review?