"You dance beautifully," Elijah complimented her as they twirled about the dance floor. Elena smiled and gave a quick glance over to Matt who was still dancing with Rebekah.

"I had training," she said, "for Miss Mystic Falls." He spun her until they were in line with the other dances; arms crossed and hands clasped just as they had begun the first waltz of the evening.

"I am not familiar with Miss Mystic Falls."

"It's like a beauty pageant. But then again, you're probably not familiar with those either." He gave her an easy half-smile as he laughed.

"On the contrary, Miss Gilbert, I am entertained by your Miss USA pageant." Elena stared at him in shock and stumbled as he spun her again. He deftly caught her and pulled her close to her chest until she managed to get her feet under her.

"Did you win?"

"Uh, pardon?" She had found herself at eye level with his mouth and was staring too intently. His question was lost on her.

"The pageant," he clarified, "were you named Miss Mystic Falls?"

"Oh, no," she said, and at the thought of who was crowned Miss Mystic, her eyes traveled about the room in search of a familiar blonde.

"Caroline won, actually. I was named the runner-up." He saw where her eyes were looking and leaned in close to whisper into her ear.

"They're not here," he said, "but don't worry. I can assure you my brother's intentions towards your friend are completely honorable. As are mine." His breath fanned across her neck and Elena had to deliberately swallow a few times before she could manage to speak. Her hands were beginning to feel clammy and she was thankful for the gloves that would mask that. When had he moved so close?

"What is honorable?" she asked, having missed almost everything he had said. Something about Caroline and Klaus and not having to worry. That was enough for her, being assured she didn't need to worry.

"My intentions," he repeated. She forced herself to stop staring at his mouth and actually make eye contact.

"Your intentions towards whom?" With a final swell, the music ceased and Elijah released his hold on her waist. Stepping back, he smiled and kissed her gloved hand.

"It was a pleasure dancing with you, Miss Gilbert." And before she could call after him, Damon had stepped in for another dance and Elijah was gone.

a/n: I thought it an act of injustice that we didn't get to see Elijah really dance at the ball. Oh well. I'm not in charge of the show and if I were… that would be really interesting.

Fave, flame, faint.

oxox